Xi extends Spring Festival greetings to military veterans Xinhua) 08:00, February 09, 2026 Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), extends Spring Festival greetings to the country's military veterans while attending a gala held by the CMC for retired military officers of Beijing-based troops in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 6, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Gang) BEIJING, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended Spring Festival greetings to the country's military veterans. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), conveyed the greetings while attending a gala held by the CMC for retired military officers of Beijing-based troops on Friday. Greeted with warm applause, Xi chatted with the veterans, inquiring about their health and living conditions. Together, they reviewed the extraordinary journey of the Party, the country and the military over the past year. The veterans vowed to rally more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core and act on Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military. They pledged to gain a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and of establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. They also vowed to consciously uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. Moreover, the veterans pledged to implement the system of ultimate responsibility resting with the CMC chairman. The veterans vowed to contribute their part to achieving the centenary goals of the People's Liberation Army by 2027 and to advancing the modernization of national defense and the armed forces at a high standard. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Commentary: The problem with asking the restrained to do more Xinhua) 10:40, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- China keeps its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required by national security and has no intention of engaging in an arms race with any country. This long-standing policy is not a slogan, but a consistent practice. Against this backdrop, recent calls by U.S. politicians for China to join so-called arms control treaties ring hollow. When the United States, the country with the world's most powerful and expansive nuclear arsenal, calls on a far smaller nuclear force to "do its part," the issue is not participation, but misplaced responsibility. Such narratives distort reality and undermine the very trust arms control depends on. The United States and China are simply not on equal footing when it comes to nuclear weapons. The disparity is not accidental, but the result of decades of policy choices, arms racing and alliance-based deterrence. Ignoring this history while calling for so-called "shared responsibility" is not principled arms control, but an attempt to dilute accountability by Washington. China's nuclear posture stands out for its clarity and discipline: consistently defensive, transparent in intent, and exceptionally restrained. China pledges never to be the first to use nuclear weapons and guarantees that it will never target non-nuclear states or nuclear-weapon-free zones, under any circumstances. Meanwhile, China plays an active role in shaping global security: championing multilateral arms control, reinforcing international norms, and working constructively within global institutions -- a clear demonstration of its commitment to strategic stability. Real nuclear disarmament starts with the biggest players. Such cuts must be substantial, verifiable, and irreversible -- laying the groundwork for eventual comprehensive disarmament. Genuine progress requires acknowledging these disparities, rather than imposing uniform obligations on nations with significantly smaller arsenals. New START's expiration isn't just a technical setback -- it's a wake-up call. The United States, as the dominant nuclear power for over 80 years, must stop shifting the goalposts. It should meet its current obligations, return to the negotiating table on strategic stability, and work within multilateral frameworks rather than retreat from them. If the United States truly seeks a safer world, it must stop treating arms control as a tool of leverage and start acting as a responsible nuclear power. That means respecting other nations' security concerns, keeping its promises, and taking real, verifiable steps toward disarmament. Anything less undermines global stability. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Gibraltar FIU Participates in Egmont Group Meetings in Tanzania and Secures Key Appointment The Gibraltar Financial Intelligence Unit (GFIU) participated in the 26th annual Egmont Group Working and Regional Group Meetings, hosted by the Tanzania Financial Intelligence Unit in Arusha, Tanzania, last week. The meetings brought together more than 400 representatives from Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs), international partners, observers, and guest organisations from across the world. With 182 member FIUs, the Egmont Group provides a secure and trusted platform for the exchange of financial intelligence, knowledge, and expertise, strengthening the global fight against money laundering, related predicate offences, and terrorist financing. Throughout the week, delegates engaged in extensive discussions on issues central to the effectiveness of FIUs, including safeguarding operational independence and autonomy, advancing technology and artificial intelligence, strengthening cross-regional responses to emerging threats such as cyber and environmental crime, and enhancing international cooperation and capacity building. As part of the programme, GFIU was invited to present its sustainable outreach programme, Project Nexus, and supporting strategy to the Technical Assistance and Training Working Group (TATWG), sharing Gibraltars approach to structured engagement, long-term capacity building, and improving the effectiveness and quality of suspicious activity reporting. GFIU also participated separately in the Europe II Regional Group meetings, contributing to discussions on shared regional risks, typologies, and priorities. A key outcome of the meetings was the selection of the GFIUs Head of Operations Mr Carl Ramagge as Chair of the Egmont Groups Policy and Procedures Working Group (PPWG), following a nomination by GFIU. This appointment further reinforces Gibraltars growing contribution to and influence in the global efforts to fight economic crime. The PPWG is one of the Egmont Groups four core working groups and plays a central role in maintaining the organisations governance framework. The group is responsible for developing, reviewing, and maintaining Egmont policies and procedures, including matters relating to membership, compliance, secure information exchange standards, and the protection of FIU operational independence. Strong leadership of the PPWG is therefore critical to maintaining trust and effectiveness across the global FIU network. Director of the GFIU, Mr Edgar Lopez said, Participation in the Egmont Group is central to GFIUs work and to Gibraltars ability to contribute effectively to international cooperation. The selection of Mr Ramagge as Chair of the PPWG reflects a high level of recognition for the work that he has done within the Egmont Group over the last few years. Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry, Nigel Feetham, KC MP, said, Gibraltars active engagement and leadership within the Egmont Group demonstrates our continued commitment to robust AML and CFT standards and to playing a constructive role in the global financial intelligence community. I am delighted that Mr Ramagge has been selected as the Chair of this important working group. India on Monday announced a special economic package of $175 million for Seychelles, including providing 1,000 million tonnes of grains and lentils towards the food security of the island nation. Over the past few months, consistent with its policy of neighbourhood first and non-reciprocity, New Delhi has announced similar assistance to help its smaller neighbours. India has announced, and started implementing, the $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka to recover from Cyclone Ditwah. In September, it announced $680 million in financial assistance for Mauritius, and assistance has been announced for Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, and Afghanistan. On Monday, India and Seychelles, an Indian Ocean archipelago comprising over 100 islands off East Africa, signed seven agreements and adopted a joint vision for sustainability, economic growth and security through enhanced linkages. New Delhi committed to assisting in setting up a hydrographic unit in Seychelles after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with the island nations President Patrick Herminie. Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour for India in the Indian Ocean Region. Herminie is on a six-day visit to India, which concludes on Tuesday. At a joint briefing with Herminie, the PM said the economic package would support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. In his remarks, the PM touched upon people-to-people ties between the two nations. In 1770, a small group of five Indians landed in Seychelles as plantation workers, along with seven African enslaved persons and 15 French colonists, and were recorded as the first inhabitants of the islands. From the beginning of the 20th century, there was a constant flow of Indians, mostly from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, and later from Gujarat, who went there as traders, labourers, construction workers, and more recently, as professionals. The number of people of Indian origin (PIOs) with Seychelles citizenship is estimated to be around 5,000, which is significant in a country with a total population of about 120,000. The PIO community dominates the trading and construction sectors. There are also over 7,000 non-resident Indians holding gainful employment permits, who are mostly workers in the construction sector, shop assistants, and a few professionals. The PMs official visit to Seychelles in March last year was the first prime ministerial-level visit from India in 34 years. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, bilateral trade and commerce with Seychelles is rather modest, mostly due to the absence of a direct shipping line between India and Seychelles. The state visit of the Seychelles President to India has come around a hundred days after his inauguration and signals the shared commitment of India and Seychelles to strengthen, expand, and deepen their longstanding and multifaceted bilateral partnership, a joint statement issued after the talks between Modi and Herminie said. It also coincides with the 50th year of independence of Seychelles. India also committed to support the construction of a new hospital in Seychelles, institutionalise a mechanism through which Seychelles could procure quality and cost-effective food and essential commodities from India, train its civil servants, and enhance preparedness for and mitigation of the effects of climate change. The PM concluded a visit to Malaysia on Sunday, where he met members of the Indian diaspora, most of whom trace their origins to Tamil Nadu. India and the US are expected to finalise and sign a joint statement on the first tranche of the bilateral trade agreement in 4-5 days, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday. After the joint statement is signed, the US will come out with an executive order on reducing tariffs on India to 18 per cent. At present, Indian goods attract a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and a 25 per cent additional tariff for buying Russian crude oil. Goyal told reporters that a legal agreement for the first tranche of the pact is expected to be signed by mid-March. The joint statement will be followed by an exhaustive legal agreement, he said. Goyal also said that there is no investment commitment in this pact. Once the statement is signed, it will be converted into a legal agreement and mid-March, "We are hopeful of signing that legal agreement," Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said. The signing of the legal text will lead to a cut in tariffs by India on certain US goods. India and the United States plan to issue a joint statement in the next four to five days, finalising the first tranche of the trade agreement, which will be followed by a White House executive order cutting tariffs on Indian exports to the US to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. The joint statement will be followed by the signing of the first tranche of a formal, legal trade agreement between India and the US by mid-March, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday. Discussions between the two countries on the first phase of the deal will be crystallised through the joint statement, which will lay out the mutual understanding reached and share the key elements of the agreement. Based on the joint statement, a formal agreement will be drafted, which may take a month or a month and a half to finalise. We aim to sign the formal agreement by mid-March, Goyal told reporters. India will reduce tariffs on products agreed under the trade deal after the formal agreement is signed. The legal agreement will authorise the Indian government to implement the tariff elimination and reduction. Indias tariffs are most-favoured-nation (MFN) rates as per global trade rules and can be tweaked only after a trade agreement has been formally signed. Once signed, the agreement with the US will be Indias ninth trade deal signed in the last five years. Negotiations for a trade agreement with the US were launched in March last year. After a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump on Monday announced that the much-awaited trade deal with India has been agreed upon and tariffs will be slashed to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. The agreement came over five months after Washington imposed 50 per cent tariffs on several Indian exports, including a 25 per cent punitive duty for Indias purchases of Russian oil. $500 billion purchases from US Trump had also said that India has committed to buy American at a much higher level, in addition to over $500 billion of US energy, technology, agricultural, coal, and many other products. India intends to buy goods worth $500 billion from the US over the next five years, which will include purchases across sectors such as oil and gas, aeroplanes and parts, precious metals and diamonds, and tech products such as hi-tech chips and server products. It will include $20 billion worth of tech products that go into setting up data centres. When we estimated what we will need from the US, we came to a figure of at least $500 billion. Our aircraft demand alone orders placed on Boeing are nearly $7080 billion. If you add engines or other spare parts, it will cross $100 billion. Data centres have been given huge concessions in the Budget. If we get $100150 billion of investment in data centres, we will need equipment for them, Goyal told reporters. As per commerce department calculations, Indias current global purchases of these items exceed $300 billion per year and are expected to go up to $2 trillion in the next five years. Procuring $500 billion worth of these items from the US will only result in diversification and add resilience to Indias supply chain. Explaining New Delhis intent to buy goods worth $500 billion from the US over the next five years, Goyal on Wednesday had pointed out that Indias attempt to become a developed nation will require expansion in capacity in sectors including energy, aviation, data centres, and nuclear energy. Since the US is a global leader in these sectors, India will explore trade possibilities that will boost imports and exports, he had informed Parliament. The US is Indias largest export destination. During the financial year 202425, India exported goods worth $86.5 billion to the US, while importing goods worth $45.6 billion. However, observers of Indias foreign policy, trade experts, and political leaders have questioned New Delhis commitment to buying $500 billion worth of goods $100 billion annually over the next five years and have flagged a possible erosion of strategic autonomy if India were to halt all oil purchases from its long-standing partner, Russia. Government sources say the trade deal would help bring the IndiaUS relationship back to normal after 12 months of uncertainty. Yet concerns remain over closer USPakistan ties and restrictions on H-1B visas for Indians. New Delhi also remains circumspect about hosting the Quad Summit this year. India was scheduled to host it last year, but it was postponed. In Washington on Friday, Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said the US was very excited to have extended an invitation to India to join the Pax Silica initiative on supply chain security. He said India was probably the only other country on Earth capable of rivalling China in terms of the sheer volume of human talent. I will be travelling to India in just a couple of weeks for a major signing with the Indian government, Helberg said, hailing the interim framework trade agreement. India was not among the signatories to Pax Silica, which was launched in December. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the critical minerals ministerial meeting hosted by the US on February 4. India is also home to a very large mining and processing operation, which obviously holds great promise to make meaningful contributions to the supply chain ecosystem. There is a lot of terrain on which we will be able to partner India, Helberg said. Speaking to Business Standard, Ashwani Mahajan, national co-convenor of the Swadeshi Jagran Manch, an economic think tank affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, said Indias proposed $500 billion in imports from the US over five years should be seen as an intent, not a pledge. In any case, we purchase aircraft from the US, and there are existing orders for 1,000 aircraft. Our steel industry needs large quantities of coking (metallurgical) coal, which we could import from the US, he said. This, he added, would reduce Indias reliance on China for coking coal and high-end technology, which carries huge security concerns. Mahajan said the gains from Indias purchases of cheaper Russian oil are yielding diminishing returns. The price difference has fallen from $2030 per barrel to less than $5, and the cost advantage has declined from savings of $8 billion to less than $1 billion this year, he said. Political parties, including the Congress and the Left, have asked whether India could end up eroding the nearly $45 billion trade surplus it currently enjoys with the US. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Saturday that questions on Russian oil purchases should be directed to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). On the same day, the MEA reiterated that insofar as Indias energy sourcing is concerned, the government has stated publicly on several occasions that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion Indians is the supreme priority. It added: Diversifying our energy sourcing, in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics, is central to our strategy. All of Indias actions are taken, and will be taken, with this in mind. On Thursday, the MEA said Venezuela has been a long-standing energy partner, saying that India purchased oil from Venezuela in 201920 and again in 202324. Consistent with our approach to energy security, India remains open to exploring the commercial merits of any crude supply options, including from Venezuela, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. US President Donald Trump said last week that India has agreed to buy more oil from Venezuela instead of Russia. According to a Reuters report, Reliance Industries has bought 2 million barrels of Venezuelan oil from trader Vitol the companys first such purchase from the South American nation in nearly a year. Referring to a US executive order, former foreign secretary Nirupama Menon Rao said the US decision to roll back a 25 per cent tariff on Indian imports because India had taken significant steps to reduce Russian oil purchases signals that energy choices are now treated as geopolitical behaviour, not merely commercial decisions. The order also shows how strategic autonomy is being stress-tested in practice: sovereign policy choices increasingly carry measurable economic costs or incentives, she said. State-owned Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) have jointly bought 2 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil - the second deal that Indian refiners have struck since oil restarted flowing into international markets. The two firms have bought 2 million barrels of Merey crude from Trafigura for delivery in the second half of April, sources said. 1.5 million barrels of oil will be delivered to IOC's Paradip refinery in Odisha and rest 500,000 barrels to HPCL's Visakhapatnam unit in Andhra Pradesh. This is the second deal for Venezuelan crude after Reliance Industries bought 2 million barrels of Venezuelan oil for April delivery from Vitol. The world's third-largest oil consumer halted Venezuelan crude purchases after US sanctions were reimposed. It has resumed imports after the US granted Vitol and Trafigura a licence to sell Venezuelan oil after President Nicolas Maduro was seized in a military operation and Washington asserted control over the nation's energy industry. India imported Venezuelan crude until 2019-20 before US sanctions on the South American country's state oil company PDVSA stopped that. It resumed purchases in 2023-24 but halted them again when Washington reimposed restrictions on Venezuela's oil sector. US President Donald Trump last week said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil and purchase more oil from the US, and possibly Venezuela, following a key US trade deal with India. IOC and HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd (a unit of HPCL) last took Venezuelan oil in 2024. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Thursday said that Washington is willing to "elevate" their relationship with New Delhi, stating that talks at the "highest levels" are still ongoing. In an X post, Gor shared pictures from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's meeting with US State Secretary Marco Rubio and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He wrote, "Engagement at the highest levels is currently happening. The United States is ready to elevate this relationship even further. Limitless Potential." Jaishankar was on a two-day state visit to the US starting February 2, to participate in the Critical Minerals Ministerial convened by Rubio. India-US trade deal announced Gor's comments follow a trade deal announcement between India and the US earlier this week after almost a year of negotiations between the two countries. The trade agreement lowered the tariffs on Indian imports from 25 per cent to 18 per cent. On February 2, US President Donald Trump announced the agreement in a post on Truth Social. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also confirmed the deal, saying, Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Donald Trump. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Gor's role in India-US trade deal After taking the position of the Ambassador last month, Gor had shared that the next call on the India-US trade deal was scheduled for January 13. Commenting on the trade deal, Gor had said, "As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has limitless potential!" Gor, who is a close aide of Trump, is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening strategic ties between New Delhi and Washington and taking the partnership to the next level. Details of India-US trade deal awaited However, details of the trade deal are still awaited. While PM Modi did not highlight details beyond the tariff reduction, Trump said India has agreed to cut its tariffs to zero and significantly increase purchases of American products. He claimed that India would reduce their tariffs and non-tariff barriers against the United States to zero. He (Modi) also committed to BUY AMERICAN, at a much higher level, in addition to over 500 billion dollars of US energy, technology, agricultural, coal and many other products, Trump said in his Truth Social post. Russia may continue as Indias largest supplier of crude oil at least for the next few months because refiners here will receive substantial volumes from the Eurasian country in the absence of clarity on the proposed United States-India trade deal, according to interviews with legal experts and market participants, and ship-tracking data. Moreover, discounts on higher-quality Russian oil are twice as much as those for dirty Venezuelan oil, which is readily available. The deal with the United States (US), recently announced, does not automatically impose a ban on Indian entities acquiring Russian crude oil or limit their purchase, said Shivam Sinha, partner, Delhi-based law firm Sagus Legal. It signals diplomatic and policy-level understanding between the two countries aiming to expand bilateral commerce. Yet such declarations alone generate no enforceable duties capable of curtailing private-sector imports. Perhaps that explains why Indias biggest refiners received six cargos, including one partial, of Russian oil in February. They were the medium and sour Urals grades, the best value proposition and profit-generating grade for Indian refiners today. Thats against 40 cargos in all of January, including nine partial cargos, and predominantly Urals, according to the shipping data accessed by Business Standard on market intelligence agency Kpler. Suppliers too are optimistic, with over 20 million barrels of Russian oil stored in tankers located in the Arabian sea, Kpler analyst Sumit Ritolia said. That compares with 30 million barrels in January, with the decline reflecting some sales to India and China. Floating storage is also much lower than around 8 million barrels in January, prior to US sanctions in October. Most of the floating storage will eventually end up in India, Ritolia said, predicting that over 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian oil will come to India in March. Oil from Russia averaged 1.35 million bpd in the first four days of February compared to 1.25 million bpd in January though they may not be strictly comparable for now, the Kpler data showed. Senior officials in refining told Business Standard in the absence of clarity from New Delhi on American President Donald Trumps tweet or in the absence of official communication Russian crudes were being evaluated alongside other grades from Brazil, Angola, or the United Arab Emirates. The FTA (free-trade agreement) wording may sound more restrictive, but the underlying reality will not undermine Indias sovereign energy decisions, said Russell A Stamets, partner, Circle Of Counsels. No one can or will bar India from pursuing its energy goals as it wishes. Neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal made a mention of any crude oil trades in their statements about the Indo-US FTA as against Trump stating in Truth Social that India would stop buying Russian oil and buy American and Venezuelan oil. Venezuelan oil: Quality issues Despite Trump pitching for Venezuelan oil, Indian refiners told Business Standard the commodity was not viable at discounts offered by Vitol and Trafigura, which are traders. In the past, the Indian Customs data showed Venezuelan oil cheaper by over $10 a barrel over West Asian or Russian grades. The large discount was because of poor quality heavy, high sulphur, acidic crude and they were tough to process. But the current discounts on the resale of Venezuelan oil, approved by Washington, are only $5-6 per barrel, a top trader at a state refiner said. Urals is available at over $10 per barrel discounts, he said. The available data also shows New Delhi not intervening in decisions on sourcing crude oil. Another trader from a state refiner said New Delhi had neither told them to reduce Russian oil import nor encouraged them to buy more US fuel. For now, economics dictates purchase decisions, he added. That explains why Indian Oil Corporation imported some of its highest volumes of Russian oil since December, and US exports to India in January and February averaged only 180,000 bpd, a third of the October volumes, according to the shipping data. Russian flows Private-sector refiners Reliance Industries and Rosneft-run Nayara Energy, and state-run refiner Indian Oil received two cargos each from Russia in the first four days of February. Cargos bought by Reliance had been shipped in late November and took an unusually long voyage of 70 days, nearly thrice the usual time taken for a Russian oil tanker to discharge at an Indian port, according to the data from Kpler, indicating the oil was supplied from storage. The names of Reliance Industries sellers have not been revealed. The firms spokesperson was not available for comment. Nayara Energy, sanctioned by the European Union, and state-run refiner Indian Oil Corporation received two each this month, with Redwood Global mentioned as the supplier for Indian Oil and Nayara. Indian Oils cargos were loaded on December 26. The joint statement issued by Washington and New Delhi on February 7 clarified that India intends to purchase $500 billion of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next 5 years. That too is a tall order, especially when the statement mentions energy products first. Energy products are primarily fuels such as crude oil, liquified petroleum gas and liquified natural gas the gases used to fire vehicles, industries and kitchens. India imports 90 per cent of its crude oil, 60 per cent of LPG and over half of LNG. But all three energy products, which together accounted for 22 per cent of Indias total imports by value in FY2025, or a combined $175 billion, are sourced from several suppliers primarily from West Asia and Russia. The US shipped just over $12 billion of energy products in FY25, including coking and steam coal. Also included in this were petroleum fuels worth around $9 billion, which made up just 5 per cent of Indias total petroleum import basket by value, commerce ministry data showed illustrating the long road ahead. While the joint statement did not give a breakup of the $500 billion goal, even a 20 per cent contribution from energy products would mean India having to boost US purchases eight-fold from current levels in five years-- even as oil and gas prices trend lower on the back of copious supplies according to senior officials from the public sector companies Gail Ltd and Petronet LNG Ltd. Analysts would be wise to ignore some of the numbers in the deal, or at least treat them as aspirational, said Evan Feigenbaum, a scholar at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a US think tank. But US-India trade has undershot its potential forever, so ambition is good. Overall, India will need to boost imports of products and services from the US by over five fold in five years to meet the target, according to Feigenbaum. US goods exports to India in 2024 were around $41.5 billion and services exports were $41.8 billion. As for energy, the US share in Indias trade basket is low in both volume and value. The US contributed 5 per cent to Indias crude oil imports in volume terms in 2025, hardly 8 per cent to LNG imports and 7 per cent to LPG supplies, Kpler data showed. In value terms, purchases of US coking coal, used in steel plants, and steam coal, used as fuel, declined by 22 per cent in FY25 to $3.2 billion compared with FY24, commerce ministry data showed. Crude purchases from the US rose by 30 per cent to $6.5 billion during the same period, while LNG imports increased by 74 per cent to $2.46 billion. Discounts reign While it is true that India accelerated Russian crude oil imports 25-fold to over $50 billion in FY25 from just over $2 billion in FY22, prior to the Ukraine invasion, this surge relied on oil discounted by over $10 per barrel, which US suppliers cannot match, senior refining officials told Business Standard. Unlike buying aircraft, a market controlled by US Boeing and Europes Airbus, petroleum is a competitive business. Indian refiners source crude oil at competitive rates from over 40 countries, said oil minister Hardeep Puri at India Energy Week (IEW) in Goa last month. LNG comes from over 10 countries, government data showed. Because our imposed dependency is so high, to nullify the impact we constantly keep exploring different geographies, Bharat Petroleums refining director Sanjay Khanna, who has additional charge of chairman and managing director, told Business Standard in an interview. And it is part of the business plan itself that each refinery will be going for five additional (types of) crudes this year. Newer suppliers for oil are emerging, such as Brazil and Colombia from Latin AmericaBrazilian supplies have jumped threefold this year from a year earlier, data from Vortexa showed. Similarly, the UAE has emerged as a big sourcing base for LNG, supplying as much as a fifth of its LNG output to India, said Adnoc Gas CEO Fatema al-Nuaimi. Puri added that India will import more than 4.2 million tonnes of LNG from the UAE every year under term contracts half as much as it imports from Qatar now. French major Total has resumed work at Mozambique LNG, where Indian state oil companies hold a 30 per cent stake and which is a much shorter journey than the US. Oil India CEO Ranjit Rath said the company is participating in the buildout of the $20 billion Mozambique LNG project to provide Indian consumers a cheaper, reliable source of LNG. Canadian energy minister Tim Hodgson, a key guest at IEW, expressed strong interest in deepening cooperation with India, particularly in the areas of LNG, oil supplies and long-term energy trade. No hurry The availability of alternative sources of both oil and LNG has tempered the enthusiasm for US fuels, a senior oil trader said. The trader also said that state-run oil companies, the biggest importers of energy, are bound by strict oversight and sourcing rules that bar preferential treatment for any importing nation, unless there is an explicitly declared formal mandate. The US shipped 319,000 bpd of crude oil in calendar 2025 to take a 6.5 per cent share of Indias crude import market. While that measured a substantial 60 per cent jump over 2024, it was still 23 per cent below the 2021 record 415,000 bpd for a 10 percent share, Kpler data showed. In the first 40 days of this year, Indian imports of US oil slipped 18 per cent below 2025 levels at 262,000 bpd. Meanwhile, US oil shipments to India averaged 180,000 bpd in December 2025 and January 2026 compared with 520,000 bpd in September 2025. US LNG, which is Trumps biggest pitch to foreign nations, represented just 12 per cent, or 2.9 million tonnes, of Indias total imports in 2025, down from a 19 per cent share in 2024 despite Gail India boosting its fleet capacity, according to Kpler. A jump in the price of US benchmark natural gas index Henry Hub (HH) this winter to over $50 per million British thermal units (MMbtu) from $4 million Btu earlier has caused concern among Indias LNG importers, especially Gail, which has long-term contracts for 5.8 million tonnes of US LNG, senior company officials said. A top Gail official said that while spikes are normal in winter, these rates are unacceptable to Indian consumers. Until last year, there was a rush for HH-linked contracts, said a senior LNG trader at a state oil company. The situation has reversed after HH gained strength in the last few months, the trader said. Indian state-run oil companies had signed up for around 10 million tons per year of LNG in the December 2024-April 2025 period in HH-linked deals. The spike in HH rates which the US Energy Information Administration expects to harden this year and the nexthas led Indian LNG importers to review US proposals for LNG supplies, industry officials said and data showed. Since late 2025, private sector players like Torrent Power and Indian state entities have switched to oil-linked pricing, company data showed. Petronet LNG managing director Akshay Kumar Singh and Sandeep Kumar Gupta, chairman, Gail, emphasised at IEW that LNG prices must be affordable below $9 per million Btu for Indian purchases to surge. At $60 per barrel oil levels, India can bring in LNG at around $8 per million Btu but delivering LNG from the US at even $4 per million Btu HH costs over $10 per million Btu, industry officials said. LPG supplies to India are primarily driven by imports from West Asia, T V Pandiyan, Business Head (LPG), Bharat Petroleum said. The first term-contract for US LPG, expected to account for 10 per cent of Indias LPG imports, will start soon, he said. The share of US-based FPI holdings, across both debt and equity markets, rose from 39.7 per cent in January 2025 to 41 per cent in January 2026, according to a Business Standard analysis of depository data. This comes even as FPIs' overall have been net sellers by over 1 trillion across debt and equity over this period. US-based FPI investments have also gone up in absolute terms from 29.5 trillion to 32.1 trillion over the same period. To be sure, this is similar to a trend of rising assets under custody despite outflows across FPIs; but the US has edged ahead. Debt assets of US-based FPIs are up nearly 15,000 crore while equity assets rose by over 2.5 trillion. Many FPI positions are in large-cap stocks which have seen some appreciation in the past one year, pointed out Satish Menon, executive director at Geojit Financial Services. The BSE Sensex rose 6.1 per cent between January 2025 and January 2026. This may have offset the decline in assets under custody due to outflows. Menon said that there is no longer an overhang of the trade deal between the US and India. This should help reverse outflows. There may be a willingness to seek other markets among US-based FPIs in light of weaker performance of US equities in the recent past. We are hopeful that FPIs will start buying, he said. Neelesh Surana, the chief investment officer at Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India), noted that India has fallen out of favour with foreign investors for several reasons over the past 18 months. In 2024, Indian markets became relatively expensive compared to global standards, coupled with a slowdown in growth and earnings fatigue. Additionally, global investors have been focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) opportunities, which are largely absent in India. However, Surana believes that these three factors are beginning to reverse, indicating that FPI flows should stabilise. He pointed out that the AI trade has already peaked, and India's economy is now better positioned for a higher earnings growth trajectory, thanks to various monetary and fiscal measures. Furthermore, a necessary time correction and price correction in the Indian markets has made the country more attractive, according to Surana. "The relative premium has come down," he said. Some of the increased FPI assets, despite an overall sell-off in markets, may reflect the holdings of private equity and other institutional shareholders in newly listed companies which may not have been part of FPI holdings earlier, according to a market expert who declined to be identified because he has not seen granular data on the same. There has also been an ongoing shift from jurisdictions such as Mauritius to the home countries of various FPIs, including the US, as authorities frowned on arrangements to reduce taxes. This may also have contributed to the rise in US share of total FPIs in recent years. India and Canada on Saturday agreed on a "shared work plan" to guide cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues. The plan is also aimed at enhancing collaboration to address common concerns such as transnational criminal networks. The decision was taken at a meeting between National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin in Ottawa. Agreement on shared work plan According to the Ministry of External Affairs, both sides noted the progress made in initiatives focused on the safety and security of their countries and citizens. They agreed to put in place a shared work plan to guide cooperation on national security and law enforcement matters. This plan aims to enable practical cooperation on the priorities of both countries. What does the plan include? During the meeting, it was agreed that India and Canada would set up security and law enforcement liaison officers. Their agencies will also strengthen existing working relationships. This step is expected to improve communication and allow quicker sharing of information on issues of mutual concern. These include the illegal flow of drugs, especially fentanyl precursors, and transnational organised criminal networks. The two sides also agreed to formalise cooperation on cybersecurity policy and the sharing of information related to cyber threats. ALSO READ | Canada PM may visit India in March, ink C$2.8 billion uranium deal They decided to continue discussions on cooperation in areas such as fraud and immigration enforcement, while following domestic laws and international obligations. Continued engagement In September last year, Doval met Drouin during her visit to India. The Ministry of External Affairs said the two had useful discussions on improving bilateral ties. Their talks focused on areas such as counter-terrorism, tackling international organised crime, and sharing intelligence. Both sides agreed to strengthen security cooperation and build further on existing mechanisms of engagement. Thaw in India-Canada ties In 2023, relations between India and Canada soured after then Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau alleged there were direct links between the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar (a Canadian citizen) and agents of the Indian government. India strongly denied the allegation. Trudeau's statement led to a serious diplomatic row, with both countries expelling each others diplomats. After Trudeau stepped down, his successor Mark Carney has taken steps to improve relations with India. He invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Group of Seven (G7) meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, in June last year. Carney also appointed new senior diplomats to reopen communication channels and began working with India on sharing information related to cross-border crimes. Technical Notice: Temporary Allowances Regime When the treaty enters in force, a duty-free allowances regime will apply to purchases of goods by individuals if they consist exclusively of goods for the personal or family use of travellers, or of goods intended as presents. The allowances will be of 430 when travelling by sea or air and of 300 when travelling by land. This regime will apply for an initial period of three years in so far as travel between the EU (eg, Spain) and Gibraltar is concerned. It is permanent for travel between Gibraltar and a non-EU country (eg, the UK). Standard quantitative limits shall also apply on tobacco products, alcohol and fuel. With regard to travel between the EU and Gibraltar, during those initial three years, persons travelling with goods within those thresholds will only pay tax at the place of purchase. If they travel with goods above those thresholds (which they can) they will be able to get a refund of the tax paid at the place of purchase (whether transaction tax or VAT) and then pay the VAT (if going to Spain) or transaction tax (if coming into Gibraltar) on those goods. There will be a counter at the airport where persons travelling with goods above the thresholds can make the relevant declarations. At this time, however, there will be no Customs controls at the land frontier. After the initial period of three years, the allowances regime will disappear altogether, and persons can travel between Gibraltar and the EU with any quantity of goods so long as they can justify that they are for personal use or a gift. India and Greece on Monday signed a Joint Declaration of Intent on strengthening defence industrial cooperation between the countries, which marks a starting point for developing a five-year roadmap for boosting the partnership. The agreement was inked after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Minister of National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias, at the Manekshaw Centre here. Later in a post on X, Singh also welcomed the announcement from the Greek side that an International Liaison Officer from that country will be positioned at the Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram, to enhance maritime cooperation between both seafaring nations. "Delighted to meet the Minister National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias in New Delhi today. India and Greece signed the Joint Declaration of Intent on Strengthening the Bilateral Defence Industrial Cooperation and exchanged the Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for the year 2026. "I welcome the announcement of positioning a Greek International Liaison Officer at Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram, to enhance maritime cooperation between both sea faring nations," Singh said. During the meeting, both ministers reiterated that the India-Greece Strategic Partnership is based on "shared values of peace, stability, freedom, and mutual respect". The two countries decided to expand capacity of their respective indigenous defence industries through partnership between India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and Hellenic defence reforms under 'Agenda 2030', the defence ministry said. "A Joint Declaration of Intent on strengthening defence industrial cooperation between India and Greece was signed which is a starting point for developing a five-year roadmap," it said in a statement. The two ministers discussed various issues of regional peace and security and acknowledged deepening of their bilateral defence cooperation and strategic ties. A Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for 2026 was also exchanged, charting the course for military engagements between the armed forces of both countries, it said. Convergence between both the ancient sea faring nations on various key maritime issues was also highlighted. "The Greek side announced the positioning of a Greek International Liaison Officer at Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram," it said. Prior to the meeting, the Greek defence minister laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, and paid homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. He also inspected the tri-service Guard of Honour at the Manekshaw Centre. During the stay, the Hellenic delegation also visited key defence and industrial establishments in Bengaluru, and interacted with DPSUs, defence industry and start-up representatives in New Delhi. "The visit reaffirms the strategic partnership between India and Hellenic Republic, which is based on long-standing warm and close relationship between both countries and their peoples," it said. The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is in the process of appointing new partner agencies as the retirement fund manager looks to empanel a new custodian after nearly 15 years, according to sources aware of the development. Presently, Standard Chartered Bank is the custodian of the EPFO, operating as the agency that holds and safeguards the social security organisations 31 trillion corpus. It was appointed in November 2011, and the plan to appoint a new custodian has been hanging fire for nearly five years. After revoking the selection of Citibank in 2023, the EPFOs investment committee (IC) made a call in 2024 to not simultaneously run the process of appointing a new custodian as well as new portfolio managers, said the sources. In October last year, the EPFO approved the appointment of HDFC Asset Management Company and Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC, along with the reappointment of its existing portfolio managers SBI Fund Management and UTI Asset Management Company. Following this, the IC decided to issue a request for proposal (RFP) or a formal tender, inviting bids from eligible companies. At the same time, the committee is also finalising an RFP for the appointment of its external concurrent auditor (ECA), which audits the investment activity of the EPFO. The tenure of Choksi & Choksi LLP as ECA, which expired on January 31, has been extended until December 31 this year, unless a new ECA is appointed before that. For the appointment process, the committee decided that the draft RFP be vetted by an expert agency to ensure regulatory compliance and compatibility with best market practices. An email sent to the EPFO did not elicit a response till press time. As on December 31, 2025, the EPFOs debt investments constituted over 89 per cent of its overall portfolio, while its equity investments accounted for 10.57 per cent. The portfolio managers of the EPFO handle its debt investments, while the asset management companies (AMCs) manage its equity investments. The tenure of the presently appointed AMCs -- ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company, SBI Funds Management, Nippon Life India Asset Management, and UTI Asset Management Company -- is also set to end on July 2. The EPFO has initiated the process to appoint new AMCs. Change in the offing > At present, Standard Chartered Bank is the custodian of EPFO; safeguards its 31 trillion corpus > RFP being finalised for the appointment of External Concurrent Auditor for EPFO EPFO portfolio as on Dec 31, 2025 Apart from portfolio managers, the custodian, AMCs, and the ECA, the EPFO has one more external partner agency -- its consultant. The Central Board of Trustees had appointed Crisil as consultant for the selection of portfolio managers, the custodian, and the ECA, and for performance evaluation of portfolio managers, in August 2014. Crisils term was extended in February last year for three years. > 89.36% Debt investments > 10.57% Equity investments New income tax rules coming soon and taxpayers can now give feedback If you file income tax returns in India, you now have a chance to help shape the new tax rules and forms that will be used from April 1, 2026. The Income Tax Department has invited public suggestions and feedback on the draft Income-tax Rules, 2026 and related forms under the upcoming Income Tax Act, 2025, which will replace the decades-old Income-tax Act, 1961. To make the process more participative, the draft rules and forms have been uploaded on the departments website, and a feedback utility has been launched on the e-filing portal. Why this matters for taxpayers The new tax law aims to make compliance simpler, clearer and less time-consuming. By inviting public input before finalising the rules, the government is trying to ensure the system works better for everyday taxpayers, professionals and businesses. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has asked stakeholders to share suggestions in four key areas: Simplifying language in tax rules and forms Reducing litigation and disputes Lowering compliance burden Identifying outdated or redundant rules and forms For taxpayers, this means an opportunity to flag confusing provisions, complicated forms or unnecessary documentation requirements before the new regime begins. Fewer rules and forms under the new system One of the biggest changes proposed is simplification of the tax framework itself. Currently: The Income-tax Rules, 1962 contain 511 rules and 399 forms Under the draft Income-tax Rules, 2026: Rules may reduce to 333 Forms may come down to 190 This consolidation is intended to make tax filing and compliance more straightforward. How you can submit suggestions Taxpayers and professionals can submit feedback through a utility available on the income tax e-filing portal. To share suggestions: Visit the feedback link on the e-filing portal Enter your name and mobile number Complete OTP verification Specify the rule, sub-rule or form number you are commenting on The feedback window opened on February 4, 2026, and suggestions received will be reviewed before the final notification of the rules. The bigger transition From April 1, 2026, India will move to a new income tax law framework, replacing legislation that has governed taxation for more than six decades. The government says the goal is to create a system that is simpler to read, easier to comply with and less prone to disputes. For taxpayers, the message is clear: the rules are still being finalised and this is a rare chance to influence how the new tax system works in practice. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on Friday issued 8,500 invitations to apply through the Express Entry system for candidates with French language proficiency. To be considered in the draw, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 400 and must have created their Express Entry profile before 11:11 a.m. Universal Coordinated Time on February 3, 2026. The draw is part of Ottawas wider effort to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents settling outside Quebec. What is Canada Express Entry? Express Entry is Canadas online system for managing applications for permanent residence under its skilled worker immigration routes. It covers three federal economic programmes. Federal Skilled Worker Program Federal Skilled Trades Program Canadian Experience Class Eligible candidates submit an online profile and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System. Points are awarded based on age, education, work experience and language ability. Candidates with higher scores receive invitations in subsequent draws. How Express Entry draws are shaping up in 2026 Express Entry draws so far in 2026 have largely focused on candidates already in Canada, especially those with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations. Draw type and number of rounds held this year: Canadian Experience Class 2 Provincial Nominee Program 2 French-language proficiency 1 In total, 24,178 invitations have been issued so far this year across these categories. Break-up of invitations issued in 2026: Canadian Experience Class 14,000 French-language proficiency 8,500 Provincial Nominee Program 1,255 French-speaking immigration targets outside Quebec In 2025, about 8.9 per cent of permanent residents admitted outside Quebec were French-speaking. The federal government has set the following targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec: 9 per cent in 2026 9.5 per cent in 2027 10.5 per cent in 2028 Measures already in place To support these targets, Ottawa has introduced several measures to attract and retain French-speaking migrants, including a dedicated Express Entry category for candidates with French-language proficiency, the Francophone Mobility work permit programme, the Francophone Minority Community Student Pilot, and the upcoming Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative. The federal government has said these measures, along with new provincial allocations, form the pathway towards reaching a 12 per cent share of French-speaking permanent resident admissions outside Quebec by 2029. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said the H-1B visa had lost much of its relevance after the Covid-19 pandemic. Global businesses no longer depend on moving large numbers of Indian engineers to the United States, he said. Speaking during separate discussions on US-India trade issues with NDTV and CNBC, Goyal said the world of work had changed and Indian companies were no longer pressing the government to negotiate for more H-1B visas. The H-1B visa story had gradually deteriorated into a lottery. So if I needed two H-1B visas, I would calculate that one out of seven are going to get it. I would apply for 15 and hope to get two out of those. Gradually, the process had gone down to that level, post-Covid, he said, describing how firms coped with uncertainty in the programme. What is the H-1B visa and why Indians dominate The H-1B visa is a temporary US work visa for highly skilled professionals, allowing American firms to employ foreign nationals in specialised roles. Indians have historically been the biggest beneficiaries, accounting for more than 70 per cent of approvals in recent years. Asked whether tighter US restrictions on the H-1B programme had featured in trade talks, Goyal said the issue had not been discussed with his American counterparts. I have not heard any company, absolutely any company, come to me and ask me to talk to the US or try to negotiate for more H-1B visas. The world has changed today, he said. Why Indian industry is not worried He added that conversations with Indian industry suggested little anxiety about the recent tightening of the visa regime. I had discussed with our Indian industry, and they really do not seem to be perturbed at all about the restrictions on H-1B. They are very confident that wherever they require it, they will get it, Goyal said. Some companies, he noted, believed the changes could even work in their favour. In fact, some people also told me it will actually become better, because a lot of the fringe applications will go out, and really serious players will now be looking for entry of their people into the US to serve high-tech products and high-tech requirements, he said. How remote work and GCCs changed the equation Goyal said the rise of remote working had reduced the need to physically relocate staff to high-cost economies. Personally, I think H-1B lost its significance significantly post-Covid, when we all saw that working from home, we could do a lot of work, he said, linking the shift to the growth of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. According to the minister, more than 1,800 GCCs are now operating across the country, allowing multinational firms to deliver services offshore while creating jobs locally. Almost 1,800 GCCs now operate in India. Large corporations recognise that you could as well do the same work from any other offshore location instead of getting people into very high-cost economies like the US or the UK, he said. Why this works in Indias favour He said this trend was beneficial for India because professionals remain based at home. The people stay in India with their families. They earn in India. They pay taxes in India. They spend in India, adding to our economy and economic activity. They save in India, invest in India, and we also earn foreign exchange, Goyal said. He contrasted income levels to underline the cost gap. Rather than struggling to take people from India to the US and then pay them top-dollar salaries because the cost of living in the US at $90,000 per capita income versus $3,000 per capita income in India are humongously high, he said. What changed in the H-1B programme From late September 2025, the Trump administration rolled out a series of measures that reshaped how H-1B visas are issued, with a sharp impact on Indian professionals. A presidential proclamation effective September 21, 2025 made it mandatory for most new H-1B petitions to include a $100,000 payment from the employer before processing. Earlier, total fees were usually limited to a few thousand dollars. The higher fee applies only to petitions filed after the proclamation. Existing H-1B holders and renewals approved before the change are not subject to the additional cost. The steep increase has raised the overall expense of hiring skilled workers from overseas. Critics say it discourages international recruitment, while supporters say it protects domestic jobs. How the new selection system works The traditional lottery has been replaced with a wage-weighted selection process. Under the updated system, effective for the 2027 visa season starting February 2026, applicants with higher wage offers receive more chances of selection than lower-paid candidates. This favours senior and highly paid roles, while reducing opportunities for early-career professionals and recent graduates. Why vetting has become tougher Procedural changes have also introduced enhanced scrutiny in the adjudication process. Internal guidance has expanded background checks and vetting for certain applicants, contributing to longer processing times and greater uncertainty. Indians are among the most affected because of their dominant share in the programme. Employers face higher costs when sponsoring Indian professionals from outside the US, while the wage-weighted system lowers the odds for entry- and mid-career applicants. Delays in consular appointments, visa stamping and renewals have added further hurdles for many Indian H-1B holders seeking to travel or extend their stay. Seventeen Indian students studying in Canada have died in violent attacks between 2018 and 2025, the government informed Parliament on Friday, highlighting concerns about the safety of Indian nationals pursuing education abroad. Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh shared country-wise data on incidents involving Indian students overseas. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Canada recorded the highest number of such deaths during the period, followed by the United States with nine cases. Other countries reporting fatalities included Australia (3), Kyrgyzstan (2), and one each in the United Kingdom, China, Denmark, Germany and Grenada. The data was shared in response to a query by Asaduddin Owaisi, who sought details about incidents of violence involving Indian students abroad and the steps taken by the government to ensure their safety. Government monitoring safety of students abroad The government said it accords high priority to the safety and security of Indian students overseas and closely monitors incidents of violence involving them. According to the minister, Indian missions and consulates regularly engage with local authorities in host countries to ensure that such incidents are properly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable. Diplomatic missions also maintain regular contact with Indian students through: pre-arrival orientation sessions advisories and awareness programmes WhatsApp groups and emergency hotlines consular camps and open-house meetings Students are encouraged to register with Indian missions and use the MEAs MADAD portal for assistance. Support systems and emergency assistance The government said consular assistance including emergency medical help, temporary accommodation and other support is provided when required through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). In crisis situations, India has also carried out evacuation operations to protect students and other nationals abroad. Recent examples include: Operation Ganga Operation Kaveri Operation Ajay Operation Devi Shakti These operations were aimed at ensuring the safe return of Indian nationals, including students, during geopolitical crises. Deportation cases also reported In a separate response, the government said it is aware of cases where Indian students in countries such as Canada, the United States and the Gulf have faced deportation proceedings. These cases were largely linked to: visa rule violations unauthorised employment fraudulent admission letters non-compliance with host country regulations Between 2021 and 2025, Indian students deported from major destinations included: United Kingdom: 170 Australia: 114 Russia: 82 United States: 45 Ukraine: 13 Additionally, some students were denied entry, including 62 cases in the United States. Growing overseas student population The disclosures come at a time when more Indian students are choosing to study abroad, making safety, compliance with visa rules and reliable support systems increasingly important. The government reiterated that Indian missions remain vigilant in countries facing political instability, economic challenges or higher risks of exploitati A new US policy taking effect on March 1 will bar green card holders from receiving business loans backed by the US Small Business Administration (SBA), a move that affects both existing and new borrowers. The restriction applies across the board and is not limited to fresh applications. Any business linked to a loan where a green card holder has an ownership stake, even a small one, will be disqualified from SBA-backed funding. What the restriction covers The rule applies to multiple layers of ownership and participation in a business. It includes: Borrowers applying for SBA-backed loans Operating companies connected to the loan Eligible passive companies Both direct and indirect ownership interests Legal permanent residents (LPRs), commonly referred to as green card holders, who relied on the money to invest in the business will be the hardest hit by the new SBA rule. Minority shareholders, family-run firms, or immigrant-founded startups are particularly exposed, said Charles Kuck, an Atlanta-based immigration attorney, responding to queries from Business Standard. He said even a non-controlling ownership stake held by a green card holder could now make a business ineligible. The ridiculous rules will also mean that a small, non-controlling ownership stake held by a green card holder will apparently make a business ineligible for SBA-backed loans, Kuck said. What the policy requires The policy notice, issued last week, requires 100 per cent of all direct and indirect owners of a loan applicant to be US citizens or US nationals residing in the United States or its territories. The change reverses earlier flexibility and aligns with US President Donald Trumps America First approach, tightening access to federal credit programmes for non-citizens, even those with permanent residency. How SBA loans are commonly used SBA-backed loans are a key source of financing for small businesses across the country. The agencys two main lending programmes are widely used: 7(a) loans for working capital, inventory, refinancing, and equipment 504 loans for purchasing commercial real estate and heavy machinery In Californias Central Valley alone, the top 20 SBA lenders guaranteed loans worth $115.6 million during the period referenced by lawmakers, showing how central the programme is to local business financing. Who is not affected According to Kuck, some categories of foreign nationals will not be affected by the change. EB-5 investors, whose businesses generally do not rely on SBA funding Individuals on H-1B or L-1 visas, who are not eligible borrowers under SBA rules in the first place Why the rule has drawn criticism Asked why the US government was limiting SBA loans to citizens despite green card holders being lawful residents and taxpayers, Kuck said the move reflected jingoism, nativism, and jealousy. Democratic lawmakers have also criticised the policy shift. Senate Small Business Committee ranking member Edward Markey of Massachusetts and House Small Business Committee ranking member Nydia Velazquez of New York said the change was hostile to immigrant entrepreneurs and inconsistent with the SBAs mandate. They noted this was the second reversal of SBA citizenship rules in under two months. In December, the agency had said it would allow up to 5 per cent foreign national ownership while excluding Chinese citizens. That position has now been fully withdrawn. In a joint statement, the lawmakers said the policy runs against the purpose of the agency. The Trump administration is stoking the flames of hatred, spreading fear and confusion among immigrants and small business owners, said Markey and Velazquez. Rather than support hard-working legal immigrants to start or expand a business, the Trump SBA is choosing hatred by barring green card holders from receiving an SBA loan. Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) on Sunday temporarily halted the annual fare revision that was set to take effect from Monday (February 9). In an official statement, BMRCL clarified that its earlier announcement on the fare hike would not be implemented until further notice, suggesting that a final call is yet to be taken. "The media release dated February 5 announcing the implementation of the annual fare revision with effect from February 9 has been kept on hold till further orders," BMRCL said. The corporation said the issue would be placed before its board for review before any final decision. "The decision on the revised fare will be communicated after the board's review," the release added. VIDEO | BJYM president Tejasvi Surya (@Tejasvi_Surya), amid protests against the Bengaluru Metro fare hike says, "Metro fare hike has been put on hold for the second time due pressure from Union government. The state government should release a white paper on the economic pic.twitter.com/WNn1yIrVdq Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 9, 2026 Tejasvi Surya detained during protest in Bengaluru Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Tejasvi Surya was detained and later released by police on Monday near Jayanagar Metro station while attempting to stage another protest against the Congress government over the proposed metro fare hike. The police said Surya had been served a notice earlier for holding a protest at the metro station without prior permission. The detention comes amid a political blame game between the Congress and the Centre in the state, with both sides accusing each other over the fare hike proposal. After his release, Surya took to X to criticise the Karnataka government, alleging weak state finances and asking Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to restore cash support to Namma Metro. "Arresting me won't silence me! Shameful that the Congress government arrested me for exposing the truth: That this is a 'Khali Trunk' government...," Surya wrote. "The chief minister must present a White Paper in the Budget and answer one question: Why are the State's finances weak, as you have admitted before FFC? Why is it becoming unaffordable in Karnataka? Why is the State increasing prices every day? Fix the finances, restore shadow cash support to Metro, and Metro fares will fall. Anything else is deception." On Sunday, Surya interacted with metro commuters to understand their concerns over the proposed fare hike. Later, speaking to reporters, Surya said commuters were unhappy with frequent fare revisions. He accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar of "misleading the public by blaming the Centre for the fare hike". Surya also demanded the formation of a Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) to address pricing concerns. Kumaraswamy blames Karnataka govt Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy blamed the state government for the proposed fare hike. He alleged that despite the Centre asking the state government not to go ahead with the increase, it was insisting on implementing it. "After increasing metro fares, the state government is passing the buck to the Centre, which is untrue," he told reporters in Mysuru. Kumaraswamy also accused the state government of not maintaining a healthy working relationship with the Centre while implementing central schemes and policies. Karnataka minister accuses BJP of politicising issue Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao accused the BJP of politicising the fare hike debate, saying Siddaramaiah had already written to the Centre requesting that fares not be increased. "Unnecessarily the BJP people want to make politics out of everything. The metro is run by the state and Central government and it is a separate corporation. CM has already written to the Government of India to not increase the fare. Now, Tejasvi Surya is saying that they are not going to increase, so let there be an official order, then we will see," Rao said. Rao also dismissed speculation about a change in the states leadership, saying the matter rests with the Congress high command. "There is nothing. It is up to the party high command. What Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi decide is final. That is what even CM and DCM have said. That is what all the party people have said," he said. (With agency inputs) With the opposition asserting that there was no imminent threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha last week, lower House secretariat sources on Monday said that several women MPs had moved "aggressively" towards his seat and Speaker Om Birla had genuine concerns regarding Modi's safety. Citing the sequence of events which unfolded in the House on Wednesday, they said the speaker had "genuine and well-founded concerns regarding the safety of the prime minister" and the "maintenance of order" in the House. Birla's advice to the prime minister not to enter the LS chamber at that juncture was guided solely by the "need to ensure the smooth functioning of parliamentary business and to safeguard the dignity and sanctity of the institution," the Lok Sabha secretariat sources said. The assertion of the sources came hours after Congress' women Lok Sabha MPs wrote to Birla claiming that under pressure from the ruling party to defend the "non-appearance" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he made grave allegations against them. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, along with some opposition leaders, also met Birla and apprised him about the issues he wants to raise in the House. The meeting took place after proceedings in the lower house were adjourned for the day amid a standoff between the government and the opposition over Gandhi's demand that he be allowed to speak before the discussion on the Union Budget begins. The House has been witnessing daily disruptions since February 2, when Gandhi was disallowed to cite a report quoting an unpublished memoir of former Army chief M M Naravane on the India-China conflict of 2020. Since then, the issue has snowballed, leading to scenes of ruckus in the lower house, which had also led to the suspension of seven Congress and one CPI-M MP from the House for the remainder of the session. In an unprecedented development, Modi also did not speak on the Motion of Thanks as Birla urged him not to come to the Lok Sabha chamber, fearing unpleasant acts by Congress MPs. Responding to allegations that Birla toed the line of the BJP by asking Modi not to come to the House, the sources said the claims were "devoid of facts", and the assertion by opposition leaders that there was no imminent threat to the prime minister was incorrect. The statement made by the Speaker must be viewed against the backdrop of the "grave and unprecedented disorder" that unfolded in the House on that day, the sources underscored. From the very commencement of the proceedings, they said, the atmosphere in the Lok Sabha chamber "deteriorated sharply". It gave rise to "serious concerns regarding safety, decorum, and the dignity of parliamentary functioning". At the initial stage of the proceedings, MPs belonging to opposition parties entered the Well of the House in open defiance of established parliamentary norms. The situation escalated rapidly as certain members climbed onto tables, tore official papers, and hurled them towards the Chair, the sources said, describing the scene on Wednesday. The acts signalled a "complete breakdown of discipline and constituted one of the most unfortunate and undesirable episodes witnessed in the Lok Sabha", they said, adding that it drew widespread attention and concern both within the House and beyond, in India and abroad. Amid this chaos, several women MPs moved aggressively towards the seat of the prime minister, forming a virtual cordon around it, they added. "Disturbingly, certain women members further crossed over to the treasury benches carrying banners and placards, adopting an openly confrontational posture. "They not only laid siege to the prime minister's seat but also advanced deep into the treasury benches, encroaching upon the space where senior ministers were seated, thereby heightening the sense of disorder and insecurity within the chamber," a functionary explained. Sources also pointed out that later, when opposition MPs met Birla in his office, they used "unparliamentary language". Birla had referred to the scenes in his office in the House on Thursday last when he explained why he had asked Modi not to attend the Lok Sabha a day before. The sources asserted that the Speaker's foremost constitutional responsibility is to maintain decorum, propriety of the House and order, and his actions were firmly anchored in this obligation. The Enforcement Directorate has constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the alleged banking and corporate fraud worth 40,000 crore involving the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) and linked entities, official sources said on Monday. The SIT is led by an additional director-rank officer in the headquarters investigation unit (HIU) of the federal probe agency and comprises about half a dozen other investigators, the sources told PTI. The Supreme Court, while reviewing cases against ADAG, last week directed the ED to constitute an SIT that will undertake a "fair, independent, prompt and dispassionate" probe into the case. It had asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is also probing the group, to look into the nexus, collusion, connivance and conspiracy, if any, and take its investigations to their logical conclusion. The ED has been probing Anil Ambani and his Reliance Group companies since last year and has, till now, filed three Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIRs) -- ED equivalent of police FIRs -- under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), apart from attaching assets worth 12,000 crore. The SIT may file more ECIRs to go into the alleged illegalities and dubious financial transactions done by the ADAG group companies and their executives, the sources said. Ambani, 66, was questioned by the ED last year for alleged bank loan "irregularities" of his group companies. A former top executive of the company and ex-RCOM president, Punit Garg, has been arrested by it recently. The Anil Ambani Group companies have denied any wrongdoing in the past. The agency had earlier said that it had detected "fraudulent diversion" of public money by various Reliance Anil Ambani group companies, including Reliance Communications Ltd, Reliance Home Finance Ltd (RHFL), Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd (RCFL), Reliance Infrastructure Ltd (RIL) and Reliance Power Ltd (RHFL). The ED has earlier said in a statement that it was "actively" pursuing perpetrators of financial crimes and is committed to restituting the proceeds of crime to their rightful claimants in this case. by Mark Harvey The biggest hazard on my one trip to Minneapolis was being invited to too many family picnics and possibly dying from an overdose of mayonnaise. You have to go to Minnesota to really experience whats known in the vernacular as Minnesota Nice. The term springs from the sincere desire those northern people have that youll take a second helping of bratwurst and potato salad, then get home safely, and call your host or your family when you do. Its kind of wonderful and kind of smothering, akin to having one too many comforters on your bed. So I dont think too many of us were expecting Minnesota to be our modern-day Gettysburg, when all those nice people came out onto the streets to fight Trumps reviled brand of fascism. Minnesota was largely out of my news feed until these past few weeks when the jackbooted thugs from ICE began to tear apart the famously neighborly city of Minneapolis. Occasionally Id hear about a brutal cold front coming down from the arctic or an exceptional year for the Vikings, but there just werent that many sensational stories coming down from the Land-O-Lakes. Before Trump and Kristi Noem sent their band of thugs up to Minnesota, the people there were busy carrying on what appeared to be, on the whole, enviable lives. Statistics never tell the whole story, but when it comes to quality of life, Minnesota consistently ranks in the top five US States based on metrics like poverty levels, health care, safety, education, and fiscal stability. Its consistently high safety rankingfactors like crime rates, quality of hospitals, quality of roads, and speed of emergency medical servicescertainly took a blow when the masked goons dispatched to make cities safe again, showed up and wiped their boots on the Constitution. We all saw the grotesque murders of Renee Good, a young mother, and Alex Pretti, a young ICU nurse, by trigger-happy ICE agents just weeks apart from each other. Even with all the other violence going on in the worldUkraine, Gaza, and the restthose murders were hard to watch. Whether it was the stuffed animals in Goods car or the mournful version of Taps played as co-workers wheeled Prettis coffin down the hall of the Vets Hospital where he worked, there were poignant emblems and imagery reminding us that those two never should have been shot dead. The immediate response of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem to the killing of Renee and Alex was morally detestable. Before knowing any of the details of Goods shooting, Noem called her a domestic terrorist. What kind of domestic terrorist drives a Honda Pilot to drop her kids off at school, wins awards for her poetry, and plays the guitar for a hobby? Noems response to Prettis death was to frame him as a would-be assassin intent on killing ICE agents. Her reasoning was that because he was armed with a concealed pistol (legally), he was not just on the streets to protest, but a deadly threat to ICE agents. Many have already pointed out the hypocrisy of Noem criticizing Pretti for carrying a concealed weapon when she has always been a baying-at-the-moon Second Amendment Rights advocate. In 2024, she said, I will always be proud to stand for the God-given right of every American to keep and bear arms. Despite the reputation for kind people, Minnesota has a proud history of fighting for whats right. Consider the Civil War. About ten miles southeast of Minneapolis, the Minnesota River joins the Mississippi River at a confluence that is today a state park. Overlooking the confluence and sitting atop limestone bluffs is a military installation called Fort Snelling. The Fort is named after Colonel Josiah Snelling, who designed the fort himself and saw its construction completed in 1825. It was at Fort Snelling that the First Minnesota Regiment mustered and offered their soldiers to Abraham Lincoln in 1861 to fight the South. It was the first state to offer a volunteer army. No regiment fought more heroically in the Civil War than the Minnesota First. When 1,500 Confederate troops attacked what is today called Cemetery Ridge during the Battle of Gettysburg on July 2nd, 1863, the tiny Minnesota regimentjust 262 menwere ordered to stop the confederates. In what had to have felt like a suicide mission, the Minnesota First ran down the hill, bayonets leveled, and staunched the attack. Eighty percent of their men, 215 of the 262, were killed or wounded in just 15 minutes. That was 165 years ago and Gettysburg is 1,000 miles from Minneapolis. But I felt some of the same pride watching Minnesotans, young and old, facing the ICE agents and a new brand of American fascism that the commanders of the Minnesotas First must have felt watching their men fight against the evils of slavery. Not all the history of Fort Snelling is as bright as the heroism of the soldiers trained there and dispatched to Gettysburg. For the fort itself was built on limestone bluffs overlooking one of the most sacred sites to Dakota Indians, a place in their language called Bdote. To the Dakota, Bdote is a place of origin for their people, where they descended from the stars to the confluence and were then incarnated from the rivers silt into human beings. The Bdote land is on a river bottom and is, covered in silver maple, cottonwood trees, blood root, big blue stem and 500 other plant species. After the US-Dakota War of 1862, 1,600 Dakota Indians were marched 150 miles to the Bdote where an internment camp was built. They spent the brutal winter of 1862-63 in terrible conditions and hundreds died of measles and cholera. The internment has parallels to what ICE is doing today. That was a cruel chapter in Minnesotas history, but there was one man of that place and time who had the same valor and humanity of todays Minneapolis protesters, an Episcopal bishop named Henry Whipple. Well before the war with the Dakotas, Whipple began to lobby President Lincoln to stop the poor treatment and summary executions of Indians across the country. He asked for and got an audience with Lincoln in Washington D.C. in 1862. Whipple expounded on the inhumanity of the US Cavalrys summary executions and the many broken treaties of the white settlers. Though consumed by the Civil War, after Whipples visit, Lincoln took the time to pardon several hundred Dakota prisoners scheduled to be executed and vowed to reexamine US policy to Native Americans after the war. His life was cut short before he could keep that vow. Whipple visited the camp below Fort Snelling to minister to the Indians with food, blankets, and religion. To be sure, he had strong views on how Native Americans should live lives closer to Christian traditionshe was a creature of his time and faithbut there was no doubting his sympathy and humanity when it came to the Dakota. In 1965, about a mile west of Bdote, where the Dakota Indians spent that terrible winter in an internment camp, Walter Mondale pushed a bill through congress to construct a building in Whipples Honor. The building is duly named the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building. In what is simply shameful, ICE is using the building to manage Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis today, and also detaining immigrants plucked off the streets there. The agency desecrates the spirit in which that building was named with acts that completely contradict Whipples humanity. Several Episcopal ministers have asked that either ICE be removed or Whipples name be removed. There is a real perversity in the former governor of South Dakota, now Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem, being the one to send the jackboots to Minnesota. South Dakota is the neighboring state and its capitol is only a six-hour drive from Minneapolis. Not all measures of a states health can be attributed to a governor, but there is real irony in one of the statistics. While Minnesota consistently ranks in the top ten states when it comes to safety, South Dakota comes in 35th. Yet Noem and her henchmen decided it was Minnesota that needed the men in masks and the pepper spray. A good name for the Trump Administration might be The Empire of Optics and who better to serve as prom queen for that empire than cosplaying Noem with her near daily costume changes. Everything is fake about Noem except her cruelty and incompetence. Americans seem to be finally getting tired of what amounts to her multimillion-dollar Halloween party. How some people grow up to be willing to march through the streets of Minneapolis in the arctic air, and get pepper sprayed in defense of people theyve never met, while others grow up to be Kristi Noem and Steven Miller, is the stuff of dissertations. Some of it, Im sure, is innate and some of it obviously has to do with a persons upbringing. In an account of his own life, Whipple captures the instinct to stand up for the disenfranchised when he was just a boy. He wrote, The one foreshadowing which I was to fight for my poor Indians was upon the occasion of a quarrel between a boy much older than myself and another half his size. Indignant at the unrighteousness of an unequal fight, I rushed upon the bully and in due season went home triumphant, but with clothes torn and face covered with blood. These past several weeks have taught us a lot about Minnesota and some of her heroes, and stiffened our spines in the battle against an ever more fascist executive branch. It turns out that some of the nicest people are also the ones with the most guts and commitment in putting their lives on the line. They do so in defense of the soaring words of our nations founding. And also because theyre simply good people. We dont have to be as nice as Minnesotans, but lets all show some of their courage. The Supreme Court on Monday flagged what it described as serious lapses and, in some cases, possible collusion by bank officials in facilitating transactions linked to so-called digital arrest scams, warning that such conduct erodes public trust in the banking system. A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice N V Anjaria, which is hearing a suo motu case on the growing incidence of these frauds, stressed the need for tighter coordination among investigative, regulatory and executive agencies to prevent losses and enable recovery of defrauded amounts. Observing that banks act as trustees of depositors money, the CJI cautioned that institutions cannot afford to be negligent or overzealous in their dealings. He remarked that in several cases before the court, officials appeared to be hand in glove with the accused, adding that such failures often allow fraudsters to access credit and later push disputes into insolvency fora. We have seen bank officials are completely hand in glove with the accused in these cases of digital arrest, CJI Kant remarked. These banks are becoming a liability. Banks should know that they are trustees of the money, and they should not get overexcited with it. That trust should not be broken. The problem is these banks give loans to these fraudsters and then the NCLT, NCLAT come into the picture when the fraudulent companies become involved in insolvency disputes, he said. The comments came after Attorney General R Venkataramani informed the court that, while implementing safeguards mandated by the Reserve Bank of India, banks had detected multiple mule accounts used to route illicit funds. The apex court had taken up the matter suo motu in October last year following a letter from a senior-citizen couple who said they were cheated of Rs 1.5 crore by fraudsters posing as officials of investigative agencies and the judiciary. In December 2025, the court ordered a pan-India probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into such scams. During Mondays hearing, the court was told that the Centre has constituted an inter-departmental committee to coordinate action against digital arrest frauds. It was also informed that the CBI has so far identified about Rs 10 crore as proceeds linked to such cases, and that banks have begun deploying artificial intelligence tools to flag suspicious transactions. Reiterating that prevention and response must move in tandem, the Bench directed the CBI to map digital arrest cases, asked the RBI to initiate action at the issuing-bank level, and instructed the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to ensure time-bound compliance by online intermediaries. We direct the CBI to identify the digital arrest cases, the RBI to take steps at the issuing-bank end and take appropriate action. MeitY is directed to follow up with intermediaries for time-bound compliance, it said. The court was further apprised that a draft memorandum of understanding and a standard operating procedure have been prepared to streamline responses to cyber-enabled frauds. Taking note of this, the Bench ordered that the MoU be finalised within four weeks, directed the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to formally adopt and roll out the RBIs SOP dated January 2, 2026, across the country, and asked that the necessary rules be notified within two weeks to enable effective inter-agency coordination. Let the draft MoU be finalised within four weeks. The RBI has crafted an SOP prescribing action by banks, whereby temporary debit holds can be placed to prevent cyber-enabled frauds. We direct the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to formally adopt and implement the SOP dated January 2, 2026, and that it be implemented across India for inter-agency coordination, location of defrauded parties, etc. Let rules be notified within two weeks, the court ordered. Opposition members of the Rajya Sabha on Monday staged a walkout from the House while raising the issue of LoP Mallikarjun Kharge not being allowed to speak. Congress member Kharge rose during Question Hour to say that the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to speak on the Motion of Thanks. Chairman C P Radhakrishnan, however, did not allow him to raise the issue relating to the Lok Sabha and said "nothing that he says will go on record". Earlier, Kharge raised the issue of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal making a statement last week on the India-US trade deal, outside the House when Parliament was in session. As the Chairman did not allow Kharge to speak, members of the entire Opposition were on their feet, raising their protest. As the Chairman proceeded with the Question Hour, Opposition members continued with their protest and later staged a walkout from the House. More than a dozen schools across the national capital received bomb threat emails on Monday, prompting heavy security deployment and precautionary evacuations. Of these, eight threats were later declared hoaxes, officials said. The threatening email carried disturbing and provocative content, claiming, "Delhi will become Khalistan. Punjab is Khalistan. In memory of Afzal Guru." The email also alleged that a blast would take place inside Parliament on February 13 at 1.11 pm, prompting heightened security alerts and coordination among multiple agencies. According to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), emergency calls were received from multiple educational institutions across different parts of the city during the morning hours, following which fire tenders and bomb disposal squads were rushed to the locations. "A total of 15 schools have reported receiving bomb threats so far. Fire service teams immediately reached the premises and thorough checks are underway," a DFS official said, adding that out of the total, eight have been declared a hoax. The schools that received the threats include Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantonment, Cambridge School in Srinivaspuri and New Friends Colony, The Indian School in Sadiq Nagar, DTEA School in INA and Lodhi Road, Venkateshwar Global School in Rohini, CM SHRI School in Rohini and Shalimar Bagh, Aadharshila Vidyapeeth in Pitampura, Modern Public School in Shalimar Bagh, Jaspal Kaur Public School, Shalimar Bagh, Manav Sthali School in New Rajendra Nagar, Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalayas in Dwarka and Bal Bharati School in Rohini, an official of the Delhi Fire Services said. As a precautionary measure, the school premises were evacuated, and students and staff were moved to safe locations. Bomb detection and disposal squads, along with dog units, are conducting search operations at the affected schools. Senior police officers said cyber teams have been pressed into service to trace the origin of the email, while security arrangements across sensitive locations in the capital have been reviewed. No suspicious object has been recovered so far from any of the school premises, officials said, adding that searches were continuing and further details were awaited. India on Monday announced $175 million as development assistance to Seychelles after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with the island nation's President Patrick Herminie. The two sides also agreed on a broad vision to expand cooperation in areas of sustainability, trade and economy and security. Herminie is on a six-day visit to India. Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour for India in the Indian Ocean Region. "India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust and a shared vision for the future," Modi said in his media statement. The prime minister said the development partnership has been the strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. "All our efforts have been based on Seychelles' priorities and needs. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a special economic package of $175 million," he said. Modi said this package will support "concrete projects" in areas such as social housing, mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. In his remarks, Modi also touched upon people-to-people ties between the two nations. "The greatest strength of India-Seychelles relations is our people-to-people ties. The Indian community settled in Seychelles has made a remarkable contribution to the social and economic life of Seychelles," he said. "At the same time, they have also strengthened our friendship from generation to generation," he added. After today's talks, it is clear that India-Seychelles relations are entering a new phase, he noted. The Supreme Court on Monday deferred to February 23 pleas of Meta Platforms Inc and WhatsApp against a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order imposing a penalty of 213.14 crore over privacy policy. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N V Anjaria was told that senior advocate Kapil Sibal was unwell and hence the hearing should be adjourned. The bench said it would take up the pleas for passing an interim order on February 23. It permitted a litigant represented by senior advocate Arvind Datar to be made a party to the case. On February 3, the bench made strong observations against Meta Platforms Inc and WhatsApp, saying they could not "play with the right to privacy of citizens in the name of data sharing" and alleged that they were creating a monopoly in the market and committing theft of private information of customers. Decrying WhatsApp's privacy policy, the bench referred to "silent customers" who were unorganised, digitally dependent and unaware of the implications of data-sharing policies, and asserted, "We will not allow the rights of any citizen of this country to be damaged." WhatsApp is owned by Meta Platforms Inc. The top court was hearing the appeals of the two tech giants against a CCI order that imposed a penalty of 213.14 crore on them over the privacy policy. On November 4, 2025, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) set aside a section of a CCI order that had banned WhatsApp from sharing data with Meta Platforms Inc for advertising purposes for five years, but retained the 213-crore penalty. Later, the NCLAT clarified that its order in the WhatsApp matter on privacy and consent safeguards also applies to user data collection and sharing for non-WhatsApp purposes, including non-advertising and advertising. The top court said that it would pass an interim order on February 9 and ordered that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology also be made a party to the appeals of the two companies. The bench is also seized of a cross-appeal by the CCI, which assailed the NCLAT ruling to the extent that it allowed WhatsApp and Meta to continue sharing users' data for advertising purposes. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said Maoism never benefitted any society and spread destruction wherever it existed and cited examples of nations like Columbia, Peru and Cambodia. Speaking at the closing ceremony of 'Bastar Pandum 2026' cultural event at Jagdalpur, the headquarter of Chhattisgarh's Bastar district, Shah reiterated that the Naxal menace will uprooted completely from the nation by March 31. He urged Naxals to surrender and join the mainstream, promising them dignified rehabilitation. "The Maoist rehabilitation policy of the Chhattisgarh government is the most attractive," he asserted. He also expressed concern over the fact that the remaining Naxals still holding out included young tribal girls. "They (young tribal girls) must be sent for rehabilitation as their whole lives lie ahead of them," Shah said. While assuring that surrendered Naxals would not face any harm, Shah also warned that those who continue to fire bullets, plant IEDs and torch schools and hospitals will not be spared. "Armed violence will be met with a firm response. If someone holds weapons, the response will also be with weapons," he emphasised. "We do not want to fight with anyone. Our fight is to protect our tribal brothers and sisters. When IEDs are planted, innocent children can be killed or permanently disabled. Where does this cruelty come from," Shah said while urging the remaining armed cadres to surrender. He said Maoists shut down schools for decades, depriving generations of education and creating large-scale illiteracy. "But Bastar is now on the path of fast development, with schools reopening, roads being built, mobile towers installed, post offices opened and electricity and drinking water being extended to villages. It is our resolve that Bastar will become the country's most developed tribal-dominated division within the next five years," Shah said. The government has prepared a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate development in Bastar region, comprising seven districts, aiming to provide electricity to all villages by December 2027, ensure mobile connectivity in every village, and open a post office or bank branch within every five kilometres, Shah added. "Paddy will be procured from tribals at Rs 3,100 per quintal, cooking gas cylinders will be provided to households, and tap water connections will be ensured in every home. With Naxalism declining, new tourism initiatives such as adventure tourism, homestays, canopy walks and glass bridges are being developed to boost Bastar's economy," the Union minister said. He added that a new industrial area spread over 118 acres is being set up in Bastar to generate employment for tribal youth. Highlighting irrigation plans, Shah said new projects on the Indravati river will be launched to irrigate 2.75 lakh hectares in Dantewada, Bijapur and Sukma districts, along with generating 120 MW of electricity. "The government is committed to preserving Bastar's culture for decades. Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to take Bastar's culture to the entire country and the world. Guns and explosives cannot be Bastar's identity. Its true identity is its culture and heritage," Shah said. The Union Home Minister thanked personnel of the Chhattisgarh Police, CRPF, ITBP and BSF for their decisive fight against Naxalism and expressed gratitude to the families of security personnel who were martyred. Hailing the organisation of the 'Bastar Pandum 2026', Shah said the top three winners in each of the 12 disciplines of event will be invited to Rashtrapati Bhavan to showcase their art and share a meal. Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar was on Monday admitted to a private hospital in Pune city after he was diagnosed with chest infection, and his health condition is stable, doctors treating him said. The 85-year-old Rajya Sabha member was brought to Ruby Hall Clinic in the afternoon from his residence in Baramati town in Pune district after he complained of difficulty in breathing and persistent cough. He underwent a series of medical tests at the hospital and is currently under treatment in a general ward, said the doctors. A CT (computed tomography) scan was performed on Pawar and it showed infection in his chest, Ruby Hall Clinic chief cardiologist and managing trustee Dr Parvez Grant said. Dr Abhijit Lodha, one of the treating doctors, said, "Due to physical exertion, he developed cough and chest congestion. Various tests have been conducted, and treatment is currently underway. His condition is stable. Any modifications to the treatment will be decided once all test reports are received. His vital parameters, including oxygen saturation levels, are stable. He is in a regular room and is not in the ICU. Pawar was accompanied by daughter and Lok Sabha member from Baramati Supriya Sule and her husband Sadanand Sule when he was brought to the hospital. Immediately after arrival from Baramati, around 100 km from Pune city in western Maharashtra, the former Union minister, who lost his nephew and deputy CM Ajit Pawar in an air crash on January 28, was wheeled inside the leading private hospital. Pawar, who came in an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), came out of the vehicle on his own before being taken inside the medical facility in a wheelchair. The octogenarian politician is an oral cancer survivor. The Supreme Court on Monday said it would not allow any impediment to the special intensive revision of electoral rolls and extended by one week the deadline for publication of the final voter list in West Bengal. The earlier deadline was February 14. The court said additional time was required for scrutiny of documents submitted in response to notices issued during the SIR of electoral rolls. Since the process of scrutinising documents submitted by affected persons in response to notices is likely to take more time, and as suggested on behalf of some of the petitioners, we direct that at least one week beyond 14 February be granted to electoral registration officers for completing scrutiny of documents and taking an appropriate decision, the court said, as quoted by Live Law. The court heard the Election Commissions response to a petition filed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, which challenged the SIR exercise in the state. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi heard the matter. Notice issued to Bengal DGP The Supreme Court also issued a show-cause notice to the West Bengal Director General of Police. In an earlier order dated 19 January, the court directed state police to maintain law and order and assist the Election Commission in carrying out the revision process. The court asked the DGP to file a personal affidavit explaining his conduct and to respond to allegations that action was not taken on complaints made by the Election Commission regarding vandalism. Referring to submissions made by the petitioners and the Election Commission, the court said it had been alleged that despite complaints, no FIRs were registered in connection with the burning of records or other alleged unlawful activities. The state denied these allegations. On behalf of petitioners, reference has been made to the role of micro observers ECI has clarified that micro observers and/or state government officials shall only assist the prescribed statutory authority in taking the final decision. It is alleged that despite complaints by ECI, no FIR was being registered against persons suspected of burning records of objections or other alleged unlawful activities, the court said, as quoted by Live Law. It added, Though this is strongly refuted by the state, we are reminded of our 19 January order, in which a categorical direction was issued to police authorities to ensure maintenance of law and order. DGP to file personal affidavit in response to allegations by ECI. The court added that electoral registration officers must consider all objections received in accordance with statutory provisions, irrespective of whether individuals appear for personal hearings, and verify the genuineness of documents submitted. Courts direction on SIR process Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court would issue any further directions or clarifications required but would not permit obstruction to the SIR exercise. Whatever orders or clarification required, we will issue. But we will not allow any impediment to the SIR process. This must be understood by all states, he said. The Chief Justice noted that 8,500 officers have been deployed for the exercise and said earlier deployment could have aided approval. Submissions by Bengal government Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for the West Bengal government, said the Election Commission had not requested Group-B officers and had not made any such request to the state. The Bengal Chief Minister had raised concerns before the court regarding a list of 13.6 million voters placed under scrutiny, saying they risked deletion due to discrepancies such as spelling variations in surnames or changes in addresses after marriage. She also referred to the deployment of more than 8,000 micro-observers by the Election Commission, stating they were central government officers and alleging that voter names were being removed without authority. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday met US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and discussed strengthening of strategic ties between the two nations, with a focus on semiconductors and electronics manufacturing. In a post on X, Vaishnaw - Minister for Electronics and IT, Railways and Information and Broadcasting - said he looks forward to strong participation from the US in the AI Impact Summit 2026. "Good meeting with Mr. Sergio Gor, US Ambassador to India. Discussed strengthening our strategic ties, with a focus on semiconductors, electronics manufacturing and supply chain resilience," Vaishnaw said in the post as he shared photos from the meeting. The development comes within days of India-US reaching an agreement on tariffs, and ahead of the crucial India AI Impact Summit that New Delhi is hosting during February 16-20, 2026. India and the US on Saturday announced they have reached a framework for an interim trade agreement under which both sides will reduce import duties on a number of goods to boost two-way trade. According to a joint statement issued by both sides on February 7, 2026, on the framework for the first phase of the bilateral trade agreement, India has expressed its intention to purchase $500 billion of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products and coking coal over the next five years. As the two nations made the big announcement, Vaishnaw said on Saturday that the Indian government is closely engaged with the US for electronics and IP-related matters. India is also set to take centre stage in global AI conversations next week as it hosts AI Impact Summit 2026 - the largest of the four global AI summits hosted so far (AI Safety Summit hosted by the UK, the AI Seoul Summit, and the AI Action Summit hosted by France). The much-awaited event - that has created quite a buzz - will reflect growing international focus on responsible, inclusive and impact-driven AI, as well as India's expanding role in shaping the global AI narrative. According to an official release earlier last week, the Summit has garnered strong interest from the global community, with over 35,000 registrations received ahead of the event, at the last count. Governments, industry leaders, researchers, civil society organisations and international institutions are set to actively participate in shaping the Summit's agenda. It is expected to see participation from over 100 countries, including 15 to 20 heads of government, 50-plus ministers from various countries, and 40-plus prominent global and Indian companies. Around 500 leading names from the global AI ecosystem, including innovators, researchers and chief technology officers, are expected to attend the mega event, which will feature a showcase of over 500 AI startups and host around 500 sessions alongside the main programme. The event will be closely followed globally, given that several influential figures shaping the global tech discourse are slated to participate in it. That list includes Jensen Huang, Founder and CEO, NVIDIA; Dario Amodei, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Anthropic; Brad Smith, President and Vice Chair, Microsoft; Demis Hassabis, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Google DeepMind; and Julie Sweet, Chair & CEO, Accenture, among others. The Gurgaon police arrested Dhruv Dutt Sharma, a real estate entrepreneur, in connection with a cheating case linked to a commercial property project. Police allege that a single floor of a building was sold to multiple buyers, with the total amount involved across complaints estimated at nearly 500 crore. Sharma, a director at 32nd Milestone, also known as 32nd Avenue, was arrested on Friday and later produced before a local court. The court remanded him to six days of police custody. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Gurugram police is investigating the case, news agency PTI reported. Who is Dhruv Sharma? Dhruv Sharma, 34, is the founder and CEO of 32nd Avenue, a popular location in Sector 15 of Gurugram. He completed his higher education in the United States and graduated from Boston University in 2013. According to his LinkedIn profile, Sharma holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (BA Sc) degree with a focus on entrepreneurship, computer science and hospitality. Soon after completing his studies, he entered the startup space. In 2014, Sharma founded GuestHouser, a platform designed to help users discover and book vacation rentals. The venture gained traction and brought him early recognition in the startup ecosystem. In 2018, he was featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list under the retail and ecommerce category. Before taking charge as CEO of 32nd Avenue in 2015, Sharma had already made a name for himself as a startup founder. Since 2015, he has served as the managing director of 32nd, overseeing the development and management of the companys commercial real estate portfolio. Under his leadership, the company expanded its footprint across several cities, including Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad and Goa. Why was Dhruv Sharma arrested? The arrest follows a complaint filed by Traum Ventures Pvt Ltd, which alleged cheating and criminal conspiracy. According to the first information report registered on January 2, the company entered into an agreement with Sharma and his associates in September 2021. The agreement was for the purchase of a 3,000-sq-ft commercial unit on the first floor of the 32nd Avenue building for 2.5 crore. While an agreement to sell was signed, the complainant alleged that the conveyance deed transferring ownership was never registered, despite repeated follow-ups. Police said that the complainant issued a legal notice in October 2023 but received no response. During this time, rent for the commercial space continued to be paid to the complainant, as per the agreement. This, investigators said, initially concealed the alleged wrongdoing, Mint reported. However, during later internal checks, the complainant discovered that between 2022 and 2023, conveyance deeds for the same floor were allegedly executed in favour of 25 different individuals. This led to the registration of the FIR. The case has been filed under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) of the Indian Penal Code. Court seeks report on plea against promoters A court in Delhi has taken note of allegations related to the same commercial project. A Judicial Magistrate First Class at Saket Court issued notice on an application seeking strict action against the promoters of the Gurugram-based project 32nd Milestone. The application was filed by an investor, Arvind Gupta, who alleged cheating, diversion of funds, and other financial irregularities by the entities responsible for developing and managing the project. The plea calls for the registration of an FIR and demands several measures, including freezing of bank accounts, a forensic audit of company finances, suspension of passports and issuance of look out circulars against those involved. The court directed the police to submit an action taken report and listed the matter for further hearing on March 13. (With agency inputs) Scent-sational road: Engineering excellence meets master perfumers From rum-soaked leather to ambered elegance, carmakers are steering into the world of fine fragrance, creating perfumes that rival designer icons in depth and desire Deepak Patel Updated On : Dec 01 2025 | 2:11 PM IST Share 1 / 6 Amberness and Bergamood by BMW and Italian perfume house Mavive Share Take a whiff of Bentley for Men Intense EDP, and notes of rum, incense, leather, and patchouli hit you like a storm. For fragheads perfume collectors and enthusiasts heres a perfume that scores over far more expensive designer fragrances. Launched in 2013, it is, however, not easy to wear. The rum note dominates, and the perfume is dense and dark, suited for, one could say, winter nights. 2 / 6 Mercedes Benz Club Black EDT for Men Share Created for Bentley by master perfumer Nathalie Lorson, this EDP is considered a classic. The scent of a rich, distinguished man standing near a Bentley in Monaco is how Nikhil Sharan, a fragrance expert who runs the YouTube channels Perfume Guru and Exotic Scents, describes Lorsons creations. They have a bit of leather, a touch of smoke, a hint of gasoline These arent your run-of-the-mill perfumes, he adds. Bentley, however, isnt the only luxury carmaker to have cruised into the world of heady aromas. Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, and BMW, too, have their signature perfumes. Theres the Mercedes-Benz Club Black EDT, for instance. A vanilla-amber fusion, created by master perfumer Olivier Cresp, it is far easier to wear than Bentley for Men Intense. 3 / 6 BMW and Mavive are set to launch M collection, called 1972, 1985, and 2025 Share Perfumes, and collectibles such as watches, sunglasses, shoes, and bags are becoming increasingly essential lifestyle purchases, says Santosh Iyer, managing director and chief executive officer of Mercedes-Benz India. We see strong growth potential in our collection items and accessories vertical, which is growing briskly at 20 per cent per annum, generating revenue of more than Rs 60 crore a year in India. Jaguars Classic line of perfumes, too, has recorded high sales in India, which represented almost five per cent of Jaguar Fragrances global sales in 2024, says Sarra Dadoul, general manager of Lalique Beauty, which manages the Jaguar brand of perfumes. This year, until now, sales have grown 66 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. 4 / 6 Bright Neroli by Ferrari Share BMW, meanwhile, is set to launch five new fragrances globally with Italian perfume house Mavive. The line includes two perfumes in EDP concentration, called Amberness and Bergamood, as well as the new M collection, called 1972, 1985, and 2025 in EDT concentration, inspired by the iconic BMW M models. The M line was created by renowned perfumers Frank Voelkl and Alexandra Monet. Of these brands, fragheads say Bentley has the strongest following among them. Some of Ferraris fragrances were also really nice like Bright Neroli, says Sharan. It was similar to the more expensive Tom Ford Neroli Portofino. 5 / 6 Bentley for Men Intense EDP Share He gives a lowdown on the coming together of luxury car brands and master perfumers. The perfumers who design for, say, Ferrari or Bentley work for perfume-making companies such as the Germany-based Symrise, UK-based CPL Aromas, or the Swiss Givaudan and DSM-Firmenich. It all begins with a detailed brief from the auto major, where the master perfumer is taken through what the brand stands for, its philosophy, the experience of it, its look and feel, and so on. And then its up to the olfactory artiste to spin their aromatic magic. Some creations, like Bentley for Men Absolute EDP by master perfumer Michel Almairac, end up becoming iconic. Its a unique perfume with papyrus notes, says Sharan. In 2003, Almairac had created Gucci Pour Homme, but the perfume was later discontinued. He re-honoured it by creating a similar-smelling Bentley for Men Absolute, and its very popular among fragheads. Chicago soybean oil rose to its highest level in more than six months, driven by hopes that India will buy more after proposing to open parts of its agriculture market to cheaper US imports, the Bloomberg news agency reported today. India agreed to cut or eliminate import duties on a slew of US agricultural products, including soybean oil, according to a joint statement on the framework for an interim trade deal released late Friday in the US. That followed an announcement made last week by US President Donald Trump that India would buy over $500 billion of US products, including agriculture. The most actively traded soybean oil contracts on the Chicago Board of Trade surged as much as 1.9 per cent to the highest since July during intraday trading, extending last weeks rally after Trump first announced the deal. India is the worlds largest edible oil importer, buying around 16 million tonnes of seed oil annually, mainly palm, soy, and sunflower oil from producers in Southeast Asia and South America. Soy oil imports from the US are relatively marginal, totalling some 200,000 tonnes in the JanuaryNovember period last year. The trade deal with the US could allow American supplies to gain market share from other major exporters and curb demand for competing edible oils. Soy oil prices in the US may rise further once details of the deal are finalised and the agreement could see India scaling back purchases from South America, Bloomberg quoted Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive officer of Sunvin Group. The most traded palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives were steady at around 4,184 ringgit ($1,062) per tonne. The near-term outlook for palm oil remains positive as prices are still about $100 cheaper than soy oil, Bajoria said. Futures may trade between 4,050 ringgit and 4,450 ringgit through the end of March, he added. Meanwhile, addressing a conference in Kuala Lumpur, Indian Vegetable Oil Producers' Association (IVPA) President Sudhakar Desai noted that global edible oil markets have entered a phase of structural volatility, driven by trade realignments, biofuel mandates and supply rigidity. In a statement on Monday, Desai, who is also the CEO of Emami Agrotech Ltd, said the geopolitical restructuring has altered global trade corridors. On the recent string of FTAs signed by India, including the one with the US, Desai said recently concluded FTAs and bilateral arrangements with partners such as the US, EU, Australia, UAE and SAFTA members have become integral to market pricing and sourcing decisions. These agreements now directly influence landed cost structures, arbitrage flows and refining economics, he said. The IVPA is a five-decade-old trade body representing Indias edible oil and oilseed value chain. The interim framework agreement, released by India and the US over the weekend, showed that India has agreed to import soybean oil from the US. Traders had said if significant quantities of soybean oil are allowed from the US at zero duty, subject only to an additional 5 per cent agriculture cess, it would weigh on crude soybean oil prices from Argentina, the worlds largest producer, and could also affect imported palm oil prices. In 202425, according to data, India imported a record 5.47 million tonnes (mt) of soybean oil, surpassing the previous high of 4.23 mt recorded in the 201516 edible oil year. In 202425, around 4.8 mt of soybean oil imports were in crude form, with the remainder imported as refined oil. The bulk of crude soybean oil imports during the year came from Argentina, at 2.89 mt, followed by Brazil at 1.14 mt, and Russia. The US accounted for just about 0.18 mt, or roughly 4 per cent of total crude soybean oil imports in the 202425 season. Desai, meanwhile, estimated that Indias edible oil production will be 9.6 million tonnes in the 202526 marketing year, and that it will have to import around 16.7 million tonnes of cooking oils to meet domestic demand. India imports soybean oil mainly from Argentina and Brazil, while the country imports palm oil from Malaysia and Indonesia. Of the total domestic demand, the country has to import about 60 per cent of the quantity. Demand for luxury hotel rooms, and nightly rentals for the entire week beginning February 16, has surged sharply. In several cases, premium suites are being quoted at as much as 30 lakh a night. At The Oberoi, the closest luxury hotel to the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, the starting price for a basic room has jumped to about 5.6 lakh a night, from around 1 lakh currently, including taxes, according to Makemytrip. A luxury suite overlooking Humayuns Tomb is priced at roughly 29.5 lakh a night. The Taj Mahal Hotel on Mansingh Road, around 4.5 km from the venue, is sold out on most dates. A basic room for February 16 starts at 55,000, while the Presidential Suite is listed at about 22.5 lakh a night, according to the companys website. At The Leela in south Delhi, basic rooms are being offered at around 3.3 lakh a night, with suites priced at 14.5 lakh. The suite rates for the coming couple of days are around 3-5 lakh. According to industry sources, the rates can even go higher. The upcoming India AI Impact Summit has led to exceptionally high demand for hotel rooms, as about 35,000 delegates from across the world are likely to attend. This has resulted in a sharp spike in room rents in luxury and premium-end hotels, said Rajiv Mehra, general secretary of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality, which represents 10 national hospitality and tourism bodies. Ravi Gosain, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, which facilitates bookings for overseas travellers to India, said: We are seeing a strong surge in last-minute bookings around the AI Summit, especially from corporate and official delegations. While the G20 was on a much larger scale, this event is also creating visible pressure on premium hotel inventory in key business zones. As expected during such peak periods, room tariffs have moved up due to limited availability. Luxury hotel chains including Indian Hotels Company Ltd, The Leela Resorts and Palaces and ITC Hotels, as well as travel portals such as Makemytrip and Cleartrip, did not respond to queries. Industry executives, however, pointed to a broader constraint: The limited supply of luxury hotel rooms in the city, even as Delhi hosts a growing number of global-scale events, many backed by the government. The spike in hotel tariffs in Delhi around the AI Impact Summit is largely a function of supply-demand dynamics. The city has a relatively limited inventory of high-quality rooms, with roughly 21,000 branded keys in the organised segment. When a large global event concentrates high-spending delegates within a short time window, pricing inevitably moves upward, said Mandeep Lamba, president and chief executive for South Asia at research firm HVS Anarock. Lamba said such events, while delivering short-term gains for luxury hotels, also underscore a structural opportunity. Delhi, he noted, is steadily positioning itself as a global convention hub, supported by large-scale venues such as Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi. Sharp spikes in room rents, or hotels closest to venues selling out entirely, are not unique to Delhi. Cities such as Las Vegas and Barcelona, which host marquee conventions and technology gatherings -- the annual CES conference and Mobile World Congress respectively -- routinely see hotels sell out early, with rates climbing steeply as events approach. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will hold a meeting with representatives of export promotion councils and industry associations on February 11 here amid finalisation of trade pacts with the US and the European Union, an official said on Monday. The meeting is important as India and the US have finalised a framework for signing the first phase of the bilateral trade agreement. Under this, the US has agreed to reduce the 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent. It has already eliminated the punitive 25 per cent tariffs on India, which was imposed in August last year for purchasing Russian crude. Indian exporters were eagerly waiting for this deal as the US is the largest export destination for several labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather and footwear and gems and jewellery. The steep 50 per cent tariffs were hurting India's exports to America. The industry official said that all the export promotion councils have been invited for the meeting. India has last month the conclusion of negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with the 27-nation EU bloc. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday asserted that the government has safeguarded the interests of Indias farmers in the interim trade agreement framework with the US. Opposition parties, however, said they would demand answers on the issue in Parliament on Monday. Several trade unions and farmer organisations have announced a strike on February 12, alleging that the government has surrendered to the US by opening up the agriculture sector to American multinational companies. Affiliates of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), particularly the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), the Sangh Parivars economic think tank, and the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS), have taken a more nuanced view of the India-US trade deal. SJM national co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan told Business Standard that the government has worked out the best possible scenario in this context. He said any critique of the deal should consider the relative tariffs imposed by the White House on goods from countries that compete with India, noting that in almost all cases, the 18 percent tariff on Indian goods is lower. He added that India walked out of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to protect the livelihoods of its farmers and dairy industry, and this principle has guided its trade negotiations with the European Union, Australia, the UK, and now the US. We cannot go by what the US Trade Representative and others are saying. We should trust our government and ministers on the issue since they are answerable to our Parliament and the people. The government has maintained that strict quantitative restrictions have been put on the imports of soybean oil and animal feed, Mahajan said, adding that India could raise tariffs on these commodities if the US violates the quantitative restrictions. Mahajan said the US using phrases, such as it would monitor Indias purchases of Russian oil, was in bad taste. However, he noted that Indias savings from Russian oil purchases are no longer as significant as they were a few years ago. The BKS welcomed the interim agreement of the India-US trade deal but with caveats. In a statement, BKS general secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra said genetically modified (GM) products should not be allowed in the country under any circumstances, under any name or conditions, and the government should provide more clarity on the subject. Several farmer organisations, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the All India Kisan Sabha (affiliated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist)), have announced protests against the trade deal. The SKM has said the proposed interim framework amounted to a total surrender of Indian agriculture to US multinational corporations and demanded the immediate resignation of Goyal. SKM leaders have said protests would be held across the country in villages, and they would burn effigies of US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The SKM also extended its support to the February 12 general strike. Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait said people in villages were questioning how the deals would affect them and called upon farmers to join the protest. The Congress and Left parties have also criticised the government for the trade deal framework and will demand replies in Parliament. The India-US trade deal framework represents a meek surrender by the Modi government to Trumps diktat. It is a blatant attack on Indias sovereignty, autonomy, and the rights and livelihoods of our farmers, said CPI (M) L General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) said the government had made sweeping concessions to the US, posing a threat to Indias economy, agriculture, and national sovereignty. It flagged zero tariffs on US exports of fruits, cotton, tree nuts, soybean oil. Apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and other states are already suffering due to trade agreements signed earlier with countries such as New Zealand, it said. Cotton farmers, already burdened by rising input costs and deepening agrarian distress, would face similar challenges, and Indian farmers would compete with heavily subsidised US farm products, making Indian agriculture increasingly unviable, the CPI(M) added on Sunday. The Gujarat government said on Monday that it has signed a letter of intent (LoI) with Elon Musks Starlink to provide satellite-based internet connectivity across remote and underserved parts of the state. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the agreement aims to improve high-speed internet access in areas where telecom infrastructure remains limited. Happy to share that the Government of Gujarat has exchanged a Letter of Intent with Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, to strengthen digital connectivity across the state, Patel said in a post on X. He further said the arrangement will support satellite-based internet services in remote, border, tribal, and underserved regions. This LoI will enable high-speed satellite-based internet connectivity in remote, border, tribal and underserved areas with limited telecom infrastructure, accelerating Gujarats digital connectivity mission and strategic digital initiatives, Patel said. Expected impact on services The state government said the project will improve delivery of public services and strengthen outreach in districts with limited connectivity. The initiative will ensure reliable digital service delivery in aspirational and tribal districts, strengthen education and healthcare outreach, enhance disaster preparedness and security systems, and improve access to government services for citizens, Patel said. He added that a joint working group with representatives from the state government and Starlink will be set up to implement the agreement. In view of the need for seamless and easy connectivity across the state, a Joint Working Group comprising representatives of the Government of Gujarat and Starlink will be constituted to ensure the effective implementation of this LoI, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Patel said. Similar move in Goa Last month, the Goa government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited. The agreement involved collaboration on digital connectivity, disaster response systems, and governance-related services. Under the arrangement, Starlink and state authorities plan to explore satellite broadband deployment in locations with limited terrestrial networks. The initiative may include connectivity for selected government schools, healthcare centres, and disaster management facilities A majority of workers expect timely payment of wages and better income security under the new labour Codes, showed a perception-based study by V.V. Giri National Labour Institute (VVGNLI). VVGNLI is a government-funded autonomous body, operating under the administrative control of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The study is based on a survey of 6,435 people, among whom 5,720 are workers and 715 employers. Among the surveyed workers, 64 per cent of respondents said they expect an improvement in income security under the new labour laws. Similarly, 54 per cent of workers said they expected timely payment of wages with the enforcement of the Codes. A majority of respondents also said they expect to see an improvement in job security and better protection for contract and fixed-term workers. To be sure, lack of awareness and want for clarity on certain provisions under the new labour Codes still persist over a month after the Centre notified the draft rules, showed the study. With the end of the consultation period for the draft rules nearing, findings from the study showed that there is moderate levels of clarity among employers on the provisions in the four new Codes. Among the themes studied, the lowest level of 'perceived realisation' was observed in the theme of Clarity and Understanding. Only 34 per cent report overall clarity of provisions, while 28 per cent remain uncertain. Clarity is comparatively lower in relation to wage and working-hour provisions, where 26 per cent report agreement and 29 per cent indicate uncertainty, said the report. On overall clarity on provisions in the labour Codes, only 34 per cent of the surveyed employers agreed that the provisions are clear, with 7 per cent reporting strong agreement. Around 66 per cent reported either disagreement or uncertainty. Employer responses showed that receipt of official communication about the labour Codes remained low. Only 36 per cent reported that their organisations have received formal communication. A relatively high 35 per cent fell in the cannot say category, while 29 per cent said no official communication was received. This suggests that formal dissemination channels have not reached all establishments uniformly, the study said. The study showed that 56 per cent of employers surveyed indicate that explanatory documents and support materials will help in better understanding of the rules. The pattern suggests that interpretational clarity is still evolving and that institutional guidance plays an important role in supporting compliance during the transition phase, the study added. To improve understanding and fast track the rollout of the Codes at the state level, the labour ministry is conducting six regional conferences. Additionally, Labour Secretary Vandana Gurnani had said in December that the government will release a compliance handbook to help businesses comply with the new rules and provisions brought by the Codes. "The presence of cannot say responses across several aspects indicates that workers understanding is still evolving, reflecting the early stage of implementation. This uncertainty is more visible in areas involving procedural details, administrative mechanisms, and institutional performance," the study said. Notably, 56 per cent of respondents felt that there is a variation in awareness according to the size of a firm and the sector it belongs to. Indias coking coal imports are rapidly shifting towards the United States, away from Australia, which has traditionally been the largest supplier. The shift was underway well before the latest announcement of the India-US trade framework and underscores a structural change in Indias energy sourcing strategy. A Business Standard analysis of fresh commerce ministry data shows that while Australia remains the single largest supplier, its dominance has weakened sharply. Its share in Indias coking coal imports declined to 43 per cent in FY25 from 69 per cent in FY20 in volume terms. Australia exported 35.92 million tonnes (mt) of coking coal in FY20 which fell to 24.54 mt in FY25. Over the same period, the US has emerged as a major supplier, with its share rising from 7.3 per cent to over 15 per cent in FY25, as US shipments to India doubled over five years. The US exported 3.77 mt of coking coal in FY20, which rose to 8.47 mt in FY25. During the same period, Russias share also rose to 7.75 mt from 1.1 mt. The shift has taken place against the backdrop of Indias continued dependence on imported coking coal. The country holds an estimated 37 billion tonnes of coking coal resources, primarily in Jharkhand, with additional reserves in Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. However, around 95 per cent of the steel sectors coking coal requirement is met through imports, which rose to 57.07 mt in FY25 from 51.83 mt in FY20. Indias latest intent to purchase coking coal from the US under the proposed bilateral trade framework comes against the backdrop of this diversification strategy, which has been in the works for some time. The India-US joint statement released on Saturday said India intends to purchase $500 billion worth of US products over five years, including energy products, precious metals, and coking coal. The sourcing shift gathered pace even as the government sought to reduce vulnerability to imported coking coal. The coal ministry last month notified coking coal as a critical mineral, signalling the need to boost domestic production and secure supplies. Analysts said the diversification reflects a deliberate effort by Indian buyers to reduce risks associated with supply concentration. The shift reflects a conscious diversification strategy to reduce exposure to supply disruptions and price volatility linked to Australian coking coal exports, said Rajib Maitra, partner and sector leader at Deloitte South Asia. Relying on a single geography exposes steelmakers to supply shocks caused by cyclones, mine disruptions, and periods of market tightness, which directly affect landed costs. Amit Bhargava, National Leader, Metals and Mining, KPMG in India, said the focus on securing coking coal was significant given Indias steelmaking trajectory. Indias steel capacity expansion is of enormous scale globally. The blast furnace route, which is the dominant pathway, would also have a significant role in the expansion, which makes coking coal critical, he said. India witnessed highest-ever tea exports in 2025 due to strong buying from Iran and Iraq, besides a pickup in demand from China. Provisional data from the Tea Board of India shows that India exported 280.40 million kg during the January-December period in 2025, up from 256.17 million kg in the same period the previous year. Export earnings during the period at Rs 8,488.43 crore were also higher than Rs 7,167.41 crore in January-December 2024. Country-wise export data sourced from the industry shows a sharp jump in offtake from the UAE, Iraq and China, while Russia and the US saw a drop. C Murugan, deputy chairperson of Tea Board, told Business Standard, This is the highest level of tea exports recorded by India, and exporters deserve credit for this achievement. Mohit Agarwal, director, Asian Tea Company, said that Indian tea exports touched an all-time high of 280 million kg. Led by the Tea Board, merchant exporters took calculated risks by penetrating into the Middle East markets - Iran, Iraq and Turkey even though the political situation remained volatile, Agarwal said. The gain has been in the orthodox exports, CTC exports remaining stagnant, Agarwal said. Assam orthodox was a key to this growth. Data shows that exports to Iraq were at 52.59 million kg in 2025, compared to 40.47 million kg in the same period of 2024. Exports to the UAE increased to 50.71 million kg in 2025 from 43.48 million kg in the previous year. Iran was at 11.25 million kg in 2025 as against 9.25 million kg in 2024. However, most teas to Iran are routed through the UAE, a major re-exporting hub. The major surprise was China Indian tea exports in 2025 stood at 16.13 million compared to 6.24 million kg in the same period of 2024. Murugan explained that when the US imposed reciprocal and punitive tariffs, exporters were urged to tap non-traditional markets. The decline in the US was more than offset by China. Exporters did their research, identified China as an opportunity, and the Chinese embassy was highly proactive. Exports to the US were at 15.21 million kg in 2025, as against 17.14 million kg in 2024. Even now we are getting a lot of enquiries from China. We will do promotional activities there because it has a huge potential, especially for orthodox tea. We will also urge the small growers to switch to orthodox production from CTC, Murugan said. The India-US trade deal also has the potential to significantly lift export volumes. The Trump administrations decision to exempt food items in November included tea, but there were disruptions for a few months. Anshuman Kanoria, chairman of Indian Tea Exporters Association, said. We welcome the historic Indo-US trade deal as it has removed uncertainty among buyers, opening up fresh opportunities for long-term contracts and sustained growth in tea exports. Murugan said the India-US trade deal gives access to a big and high priced market. There is a growing demand for Indian tea in the US. Afghanistan, North African countries such as Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt are also on the Tea Boards radar for market development. According to Kanoria, If the payment situation for Iran becomes more favourable, and with promotion and compliance support from the government, we can comfortably scale tea exports up to 300 million kg. Karnatakas decision to relax building rules under the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) could change the skyline of Bengaluru and other industrial hubs in the state. The government has allowed developers to build much taller structures by increasing the permissible floor area ratio (FAR) to as high as 5.2, subject to payment of a premium, The Economic Times reported. The move is expected to encourage denser and more vertical development across industrial, commercial and residential projects, especially in areas where land availability is becoming a major constraint. What is the floor area ratio (FAR)? Floor area ratio, also known as floor space index (FSI), is a basic planning rule that decides how much construction is allowed on a piece of land. It is calculated by dividing the total built-up area of all floors by the total area of the plot. For instance, if a plot measures 1,000 sq m and the FAR is 2, the developer can build up to 2,000 sq m of floor space. This construction can be spread across multiple floors. A higher FAR allows taller or denser buildings, while a lower FAR restricts construction and keeps development more spread out. City planning authorities use FAR to manage population density, pressure on roads and utilities, and the overall shape of urban growth. What has Karnataka changed? According to a government order issued on February 6, Karnataka has revised its planning norms for KIADB areas to allow higher FAR, depending on road width and premium payments. The goal is to use land more efficiently, reduce regulatory hurdles and attract faster investments into industrial zones and townships, the news report said. ALSO READ: RBI proposes to allow banks to lend to REITs, widening real estate funding Under the new rules, industrial plots located along roads wider than 30 metres can now achieve a maximum FAR of 5.2. Earlier, such plots were allowed a FAR of only around 3.25. Plots along 24-30 metre roads can go up to 4.8 FAR, while those on 18-24 metre roads can build up to 4. Smaller roads also get higher limits than before, ensuring more buildable space across categories, the news report stated. Boost for industrial townships, factories The revised norms also allow higher construction intensity in integrated industrial townships. Projects located along wide roads can cover up to 45 per cent of the ground area and build up to 5.2 FAR. This makes it easier to develop large campuses that combine factories, warehouses, offices and worker housing in one location. Industry experts quoted in the report said the changes will encourage vertical factories, multi-storey warehouses and mixed-use industrial campuses. Earlier rules often left large portions of land unused due to strict height and setback norms. The new framework will lower business costs, allow higher output per unit of land and generate more jobs. Additional incentives have also been built in to push industrial growth beyond Bengaluru, where land is cheaper and infrastructure is expanding, the news report said. FAR norms in Mumbai Mumbai operates under one of the most layered FAR systems in India. In the island city, the base FAR is typically around 1.33, the New Indian Express reported. However, in redevelopment and slum rehabilitation projects, FAR can go up to nearly 4 to make such projects financially viable. In suburban Mumbai, the base FAR is usually close to 1. Like the island city, special projects such as Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) schemes and large redevelopment plans can access much higher FAR with approvals and premium payments. FAR norms in Delhi Delhi and the National Capital Region follow a wider range of FAR limits. In many parts of Delhi, FAR ranges between 1.2 and 3.5, depending on land use, plot size, road width and zoning rules under the citys master plan. Higher FAR is often allowed in redevelopment zones and areas linked to transit-oriented development. Why FAR is crucial for cities FAR plays a direct role in shaping housing supply, real estate prices and infrastructure demand. Higher FAR can help cities like Mumbai and Delhi accommodate more people and businesses on limited land. However, without matching upgrades in roads, water supply and public services, denser development can strain urban systems. Stronger protection for the workforce, simpler compliance and improved working conditions are seen as some of the benefits of the implementation of four new labour codes in the country, according to a survey. Around 60 per cent of workers believe in improvement in their overall working conditions with the implementation of four new labour codes, a labour ministry statement said, citing a survey carried out by Noida-based V V Giri National Labour Institute (VVGNLI), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The ministry notified the four labour codes on November 21 last year and sought comment on draft rules on December 31, 2025. The government intends to fully operationalise the four codes from April 1, 2026. The latest survey reflects deepening trust and widespread positivity among workers and employers in the implementation of the labour codes, the ministry said. The study, titled 'The Implementation of Labour Codes: A Perception-based Analysis', indicates broad acceptance and convergence of views across stakeholders. It presents labour codes as a credible reform framework that balances labour protection with economic efficiency, institutional logic, and stakeholder acceptance. The survey findings suggest that workers and employers perceive the new codes as contributing to improved ease of living and ease of doing business, strengthened social security, modernised labour relations, and simpler, more streamlined compliance systems. The assessment focused on the initial phase of implementation of the labour codes, and workers' perceptions were captured through one-on-one interviews and focused group discussions. Employers' perspectives were drawn from leading chambers of commerce, employer federations, and industry associations, representing large industrial groups, MSMEs, and small enterprises. The research involved a total sample size of 6,435, consisting of 5,720 workers/ employees and 715 employers. Based on their responses, the survey found that 60 per cent of workers believe overall working conditions will improve, with 63 per cent expecting better regulation of working hours and 60 per cent anticipating enhanced rest periods and leave practices. About 66 per cent of workers believe that safety, transport, and monitoring requirements will improve protection for women workers, while 63 per cent feel that mandatory safety equipment and protective measures will strengthen workplace conditions. Nearly 64 per cent of workers foresee improved income security through wage transparency and timely payments, while 54 per cent expect better wage payment timeliness. On social security, 68 per cent of workers hail e-Shram and Welfare Boards for easier access, and 63 per cent see greater portability for contract, migrant, and gig workers. Employers prioritise workforce flexibility, with 76 per cent viewing it as vital for sustainability. About 64 per cent consider fixed-term employment suitable for their business models, and 64 per cent expect timely wage rules to promote discipline. According to the survey, around 73 per cent predict long-term compliance simplification, while about 62 per cent of employers agree that social security coverage for workers will expand. Nearly 73 per cent of employers believe that the labour codes will simplify compliance requirements. The Ministry of Labour & Employment views these findings as validation of the progressive and consultative design of the Labour Codes, enacted during 20192020 and notified nationwide in November last year. "These findings underscore the labour codes' objective of promoting social security for all, decent work, formalisation, and inclusive and sustainable growth in India's diverse labour market," said Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister for Labour and Employment. A joint platform of 10 central trade unions on Monday said that the call for a nationwide general strike on February 12 is on, and not less than 30 crore workers across the country are expected to join the protest. The group of unions had given a call for a nationwide strike on January 9, 2025, to show their "resistance to anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the central government". All India Trade Union Congress General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur told reporters that this time "not less than 30 crore workers will participate in the strike called on February 12 (Thursday). Last time on July 9, 2025, about 25 crore workers took part in the agitation. She informed that the strike will see its impact in 600 districts of the country, which is higher than about 550 districts last year. Kaur also stated that the trade unions' claims of participation are based on the strong preparations done at the district and block levels, and farmers, as well as other federations, are with them. About the impact of the proposed strike in BJP-ruled states, she said that Odisha and Assam would be completely shut down and other states will also have a huge impact of the agitation. According to a statement by the joint forum, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha extended full-fledged support for joining the protest and mobilisations on their demands and in support of trade unions' demands. Similarly, the joint front of agricultural workers' unions is also part of the campaign, joining the strike, with a special focus on restoring MGNREGA. The wide campaigns have been taken up in almost all the states, in all sectors- government, public and private sector establishments, industrial areas, amongst the workers, farmers and common masses in rural and urban India. Students and youth groups joined in several places for such campaigns. Common citizens have been extending their support for the strike's demands. The strike notices have been served in most of the sectors/industries. The preparations are full-fledged, it stated. Their immediate demand include the scrapping of four labour codes and rules; withdrawal of the Draft Seed Bill and Electricity Amendment Bill, the 'Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act'. The unions are also demanding the restoration of MGNREGA and scrapping the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025. The joint forum includes INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU LPF and UTUC. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has accepted the offer of Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT) the latest highway InvIT open for retail investors of 9,500 crore towards asset monetisation of five sections spanning over 260 km across four states, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways said. The monetised assets include the 80.52-km-long GorharBarwa Adda section in Jharkhand, the 69.4-km-long ChilakaluripetVijayawada section in Andhra Pradesh, the 32.6-km-long Chennai Bypass, the 33-km-long ChennaiTada section in Tamil Nadu, and the 44.6-km-long NelamangalaTumakuru section in Karnataka. Through this public InvIT, retail investors will not only gain the opportunity to earn stable and attractive returns from operational National Highway assets but will also develop a sense of ownership and pride in contributing to the growth of national infrastructure, Santosh Kumar Yadav, chairman of the highway authority, said. The monetisation through the public InvIT is aligned with the Government of Indias National Monetisation Pipeline objectives aimed at unlocking value from operational infrastructure assets and enhancing private sector participation in infrastructure management, the ministry said. Over the next three to five years, NHAI plans to provide further assets of about 1,500 km to RIIT, it added. NHAI, through its existing InvIT National Highways Infra Trust has already raised over 43,000 crore so far. However, the trust currently allows participation only from institutional investors, and the government has been firming up plans to allow retail investors into units of national highways. InvITs are one of the three primary modes of highway monetisation used by NHAI, under which a trust handles several road assets and investors can benefit from toll revenues on these roads by becoming unitholders. India's strategic petroleum reserve can last 74 days to meet the demand arising out of any global turbulence, Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri informed the Rajya Sabha on Monday. Replying to supplementaries during Question Hour, the minister said for any country like India, which is growing at a phenomenal pace, there must be a very viable and secure reserve, so that it is not in a vulnerable situation in the case of global turbulence. He said India has several refineries both in the West coast as well as the East. "According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), today we are the world's third largest consumer of crude oil. We have the world's fourth largest refining capacity - currently around 260 million metric tonne per annum going on to 320 million metric tonne per annum. And, we are also the world's fifth largest exporter of petroleum products. "The strategic petroleum reserve is designed to ensure that in case of total global turbulence, we must have enough stock left to meet our needs. The IEA stipulates that there should be about 90 days of holding as a strategic petroleum reserve," the minister said. Today, he said, "we calculate our reserves not only in caverns but also in our refineries. Our reserves in the caverns are in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and we are hoping to get started in Odisha soon." "Together, if you look at the reserves in our caverns and what is held by our refineries and our floating platforms at our ports and our products, it comes to 74 days. Ideally, it should be 90 days. I feel as the minister, safe with something at 74 days. But, we can consider raising it going forward," Puri said. "Overall, the strategic petroleum reserve is a very important component in economic stability. This is a very important component in our energy security," he informed the House. In his written reply to the question, the minister said, "the Government, through a Special Purpose Vehicle called Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited (ISPRL), has established Strategic Petroleum Reserves facilities with total capacity of 5.33 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of crude oil at 3 locations in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Quantity of the crude available in the caverns varies depending on market conditions." "Currently, ISPRL has around 4.094 MMT of crude stock available which is around 77 per cent of the total storage capacity. Out of total storage capacity, 50 per cent is utilized for commercial activities by ISPRL. "Since the first purchase of crude oil for filling the reserves in 2015, crude oil prices (Indian basket) have fluctuated from a high of $80.08 per barrel in October 2018 to a low of $19.90 per barrel in April 2020 during the COVID period to as high as $112.87 per barrel in March 2022," Puri said. Taking advantage of low crude oil prices in April/May 2020, Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) were filled to full capacity, leading to notional savings of approximately 5,000 crore. The weighted average procurement cost of crude oil filled in SPRs from Government Budgetary Support is still half of the currently prevailing crude oil prices, he said in his written reply. They warned that delays in approvals, weak clinical trial infrastructure and poor domestic acceptance of Indian innovation are holding the sector back. This comes at a time when global peers particularly China are moving rapidly up the value chain. Speaking at a panel discussion on the past and future of Indian pharma at the launch of the book Made in India The Story of Desh Bandhu Gupta, Lupin and Indian Pharma, industry stalwarts, including Dilip Shanghvi, managing director of Sun Pharma, Yusuf Hamied, chairman of Cipla, GV Prasad, managing director of Dr Reddys Laboratories and Vinita Gupta, chief executive officer (CEO) of Lupin, said India must urgently reform its regulatory ecosystem. This would help it transition from a generics-led model to higher-value innovation. The industry veterans highlighted how regulatory delays, especially in clinical trial approvals, are forcing Indian companies to conduct early-stage studies overseas. Shanghvi noted that Phase-I trials often get completed in countries such as Belgium or Australia before approvals come through in India, underscoring the need for smoother processes if the country wants to become an innovation hub. He said the governments recent steps, including the production linked incentivestyle PRIP scheme and plans to certify 1,000 clinical trial centres, signal intent, but execution will be key. China emerged repeatedly as a point of comparison. Prasad said India had underestimated China for years, seeing it mainly as a low-cost manufacturing base, while it quietly built a powerful innovation ecosystem. He pointed to Chinas large reimbursed domestic market, faster regulatory clearances, rapid clinical development timelines and its success in attracting globally-trained biopharma leadership as critical advantages. These factors, he said, have enabled Chinese firms to move beyond generics into fast-follower and best-in-class innovation, a space that requires millions of dollars of investment per molecule and far higher risk tolerance. The panel stressed that fast follower drugs should not be trivialised as incremental work. Prasad described them as best-in-class innovations that demand expensive clinical trials, advanced medicinal chemistry and strong regulatory capabilities. This is a very different game from generics, he said, adding that innovation involves fewer but much larger bets compared with the multiple small bets, typical of generics. Hamied traced Indias pharma roots to policy choices that prioritised access over monopoly, recalling the 1972 patent law changes that enabled domestic manufacturing of essential drugs. While reiterating his support for science being rewarded through royalties, he argued against monopolistic pricing and said innovation in India continues to face a major hurdle: acceptability. Indian doctors, he said, often remain sceptical of domestically-developed new drugs, asking why multinational companies have not launched them first. Academia-industry collaboration also came under focus. Sharma said India has a cultural resistance to being first in the world and a reluctance to accept failure, both of which stifle innovation. He stressed that applied research must ultimately find its way into industry and markets, and called for greater focus on areas such as biotransformation, formulation engineering and sustainable manufacturing. Here, India remains overly dependent on imports, particularly from China. Gupta argued that India does not need to replicate the multi-billion-dollar research and development (R&D) spending of global pharma giants to innovate. Instead, she said, companies can leverage Indias large patient pool, improving regulatory pathways and government incentives to conduct faster development locally, establish proof of concept and then scale products globally. She also highlighted opportunities in off-patent brands, specialty generics, biosimilars and novel formulations as lower-risk pathways to value creation. While acknowledging that innovation requires significant capital and tolerance for failure, Shanghvi said Indian companies need a few visible success stories to build confidence across the industry. Recent out-licensing deals, he said, show that Indian innovation can attract global interest if supported by the right ecosystem. The overarching message from the panel was clear: without regulatory agility, better clinical infrastructure, stronger industryacademia links and a shift in mindset towards risk-taking and acceptance of failure, India risks ceding ground to faster-moving peers. Sebi on Monday proposed a sharp reduction in the minimum investment required from individual investors in social impact funds to 1,000 from the existing 2 lakh, in a move aimed at widening retail participation and easing fundraising for not-for-profit organisations (NPOs) on the Social Stock Exchange (SSE). In its consultation paper, Sebi also proposed extending the registration period for NPOs on the SSE without fundraising and lowering the minimum subscription requirement for issuing Zero Coupon Zero Principal Instruments (ZCZP). The regulator said the measures are intended to "further strengthen the SSE framework, facilitate ease of fund raising and encourage greater participation by NPOs". Under the current Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Regulations, individual investors are required to invest a minimum of 2 lakh in a social impact fund that invests exclusively in securities of NPOs listed or registered on the SSE. Sebi has now proposed lowering this threshold to 1,000 to align it with the existing minimum application size for Zero Coupon Zero Principal Instruments (ZCZP) under the ICDR norms, thereby enabling wider retail participation in social impact investments. On the registration front, Sebi has suggested extending the period during which NPOs can remain registered on the SSE without raising funds from the existing two years to three years. The proposal has taken into account practical challenges faced by NPOs, including delays in statutory and regulatory approvals, and would be subject to approval by the SSE. In addition, the regulator has proposed reducing the minimum subscription requirement for ZCZP issuances from 75 per cent to 50 per cent in select cases. This relaxation would apply only to projects where costs and outcomes can be implemented on a clearly identifiable per-unit basis, ensuring that partial subscription does not adversely affect project execution, Sebi said. In such cases, SSEs would be required to carry out due diligence to ensure that funds raised at the lower subscription threshold can still be meaningfully deployed towards the stated objectives. Also, the regulator said that funds would be refunded to investors if the minimum subscription requirement is not met. The Ministry of Steel on Monday signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 55 companies for 85 projects under the third round of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for specialty steel. The firms committed investments worth 11,887 crore and capacity addition of 8.7 million tonnes. The MoUs were signed at Vigyan Bhawan in the presence of Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, and his minister of state (MoS) Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, marking the formal rollout of PLI Scheme 1.2, which was launched last November. PLI 1.2 targets specialty steel grades where India remains import dependent, particularly for strategic, electrical, and high-end downstream applications. The round covers 22 product sub-categories across four segments, including steel grades for strategic sectors and coated and wire products, with incentive rates ranging between 4 per cent and 15 per cent for five years starting 2025-2026 (FY26). Kumaraswamy said PLI 1.2 was a decisive step towards building a resilient and globally competitive specialty steel ecosystem and the scheme would address the structural gap by incentivising domestic production, conserving foreign exchange, and positioning India as a reliable global steel supplier. The minister also said the achievements under earlier rounds of the PLI scheme further reinforced the policys effectiveness. Across PLI 1.0 and 1.1, committed investments of 43,874 crore have already translated into substantial on-ground progress, including significant capacity creation and employment generation. PLI 1.2 builds on this momentum, deepening the domestic steel ecosystem and strengthening the entire value chain, he said. Addressing the event, Steel Secretary, Sandeep Poundrik, said the schemes design had been recalibrated based on learnings from earlier rounds, including lower investment thresholds, removal of mandatory annual production targets, and incentive payouts linked to actual incremental production. The base year had also been revised to FY25 to better reflect market realities. From the government side, facilitation remains a priority. Issues relating to approvals, visas for foreign experts, coordination with state governments, and inter-ministerial matters are being addressed through structured engagement, Poundrik said. The schemes success ultimately depends on timely investment, commissioning and sustained production by participating companies, he said. Industry is expected to adhere to MoU commitments, engage early with end-users, and focus on quality, consistency, and cost competitiveness, Poundrik said, adding that PLI 1.2 is designed as an enabler, not just an incentive. They cite a host of challenges, such as high freight costs, pricier crude and technical limitations posed by refinery configurations, and geopolitical complexities of shifting from Russian Urals to US oil grades that could limit Indias ability to quickly boost energy imports from the US. India imports crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and coking coal worth over $12 billion annually from the US. The expected additional cost per barrel is estimated at $12-15, taking into account the discount offered to India by Russia. An additional consideration is the longer voyage time of 32 to 40 days against 25 to 30 days earlier, said Pankaj Srivastava, senior vice-president of commodity markets oil at Norway-based energy research and intelligence firm Rystad Energy. While discounts on West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude could drive increased supply to India, Russian Urals and US WTI cannot be treated as direct replacements due to major differences in crude quality and yield profiles, Srivastava said. Refineries process crude on a blended basis to achieve their design crude properties. The crude basket at major Indian refineries ranges from 80-100 different grades," he said. In a joint statement issued on Saturday, India and the US outlined a framework for an interim trade agreement, including commitments on market access and resilient supply chains. India said it intends to purchase $500 billion worth of US energy products, aircraft and parts, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next five years. However, the statement did not provide details on the expected increase in energy trade. In a press briefing, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal later said the Ministry of External Affairs would share the details. According to Rystad Energys analysis, replacing Urals with WTI in a typical bottom-of-the-barrel conversion refinery could lead to a 25 per cent reduction in effective refinery capacity. This would be driven by WTIs higher gasoline yield and lower output of vacuum gas oil and vacuum residue, Srivastava said. He added that the $500 billion commitment was expected to be more focused on the gas and LNG, and possibly ethane rather than crude oil. The WTI quality is not suited for diesel-focused Indian refineries configuration, he said. In a note, equity research firm Elara Capital said increasing US energy imports or imports of Venezuela oil (lower grade than others) could limit gains due to cheaper Russian crude. However, we continue to monitor the upcoming developments and expect that India is likely to follow the FTA rulebook," it said. India imported 243 million tonnes (mt) of crude oil worth $137 billion in 2024-25. Russia accounted for about 30 per cent of these imports, though purchases from the US have also increased. Data from maritime intelligence firm Kpler shows Indias average crude imports from the US rose to 318,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, up from nearly 200,000 bpd in 2024. In October 2025, Indias monthly crude imports from the US hit their highest level since March 2021, as Indian refiners bought over 550,000 bpd of crude oil from the country. Imports from Russia tapered in the past few months. The Executive Order issued by the White House on February 6 stated that India had committed to stopping direct or indirect imports of Russian oil and signalled increased purchases of US energy products. It also warned that resuming Russian oil imports could trigger the reimposition of a 25 per cent additional duty on Indian goods. The order shows how Indias energy purchases have been central in the ongoing trade pact negotiation. India ramped up energy supplies, including crude oil, LPG and LNG, from the US in the last year. In a first, Indian public-sector oil companies last month finalised a one-year contract to import around 2.2 mt of LPG from the US. These volumes, which are to be sourced from the US Gulf Coast for the 2026 contract year, represent close to 10 per cent of Indias annual LPG imports. India is dependent on imports for around 60 per cent of its domestic LPG demand. To secure supplies, it is looking to diversify sources, as nearly 90 per cent of LPG imports currently come from West Asian suppliers, such as the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Despite deepening energy ties between India and US, Indian officials have repeatedly said that purchases would be based on economics of the deal. Importing energy from the US is costlier due to higher freight costs and longer transit times. Cargoes arriving in India from the US take around 45-50 days, compared to 7-8 days from West Asia and 30 to 45 days from Russia. Indian refiners are seeking steeper discounts on Venezuelan oil as its highly viscous and acidic nature makes it difficult to process. Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) and Russia-backed Nayara Energy were the top Indian buyers of Venezuelan crude prior to the US sanctions imposed on Caracas. Historically, state-run refiners processed only limited volumes. After US President Donald Trump captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, he said American oil companies would rebuild the oil infrastructure of Venezuela. Global trading houses Vitol and Trafigura have since obtained US licences to load and export Venezuelan crude. Experts believe that Indian refineries with deep bottom-of-the-barrel conversion capabilities can process heavy Venezuelan crude without major operational issues. India has done so in the past, with average monthly intake of 2-2.5 million barrels in the first half of 2024, declining to about 1.6 million barrels per month in the first half of 2025. The key factor remains the level of discount, which will need to be negotiated, Srivastava said. Given the current US-India engagement, this issue is expected to be addressed. However, Venezuelan crude cannot fully replace Urals. In the near term, Indian refineries are likely to process Venezuelan crude alongside increased supplies from West Asia, Latin America, and Africa, he said. The Rystad Energy executive added that, given current geopolitical uncertainties, Indias optimal strategy is to diversify crude sourcing and avoid over-reliance on any single supplier. Expanding procurement from Brazil, Guyana, Venezuela, Argentina, the US, and selectively from Russia would provide much-needed stability and resilience to Indias crude sourcing strategy, he said. Indian refiners to avoid Russian oil deliveries in March-April Brahmaputra Infrastructure hit an upper limit of 10% at Rs 322.10 after it has received a letter of acceptance (LoA) from the North Frontier Railway (NF Railway), Maligaon, Assam, for the construction of a Road Over Bridge (RoB) project. The order pertains to the construction of a Road Over Bridge In lieu of Level Crossing No. NC-5 (Manned) located at Km 7/98/0 between Rangapani and New Jalpaiguri stations in the New JalpaiguriAluabari section of Assam. The total value of the contract stands at Rs 466.27 million (Rs 46.63 crore), and the project is scheduled to be executed within 18 months from the date of award. NF Railway, a government entity, awarded the contract, making it a domestic order. The company clarified that neither the promoter nor the promoter group has any interest in the entity awarding the contract. Further, the transaction does not fall under related-party transactions. The project is expected to strengthen Brahmaputra Infrastructures order book and enhance its presence in railway and infrastructure development projects in the region. Brahmaputra Infrastructure is a versatile construction company with a significant presence in sectors like highways & roads, buildings, bridges/flyovers, airports, tunnels, and other civil construction works. On a consolidated basis, Brahmaputra Infrastructure reported a net profit of Rs 14.64 crore in Q2 September 2025, a surge of 3,653.85% from Rs 0.39 crore in Q2 September 2024. Net sales rose 188.89% year-on-year to Rs 90.19 crore during the same period. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Eurogrip Tyres inaugurated its 12th branded signature store, strengthening the company's retail footprint and national expansion strategy. With the opening of the store in Alappuzha in Kerala, the brand is looking to explore the state's strong two-wheeler culture and steadily grow automotive aftermarket. The new retail outlet was inaugurated on 29th January in the presence of distinguished guests including members of the Eurogrip team and business partners. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Grovy India announced the acquisition of a new premium luxury residential project located at Hauz Khas, New Delhi. This strategic acquisition reinforces the Company's presence in one of South Delhi's most prestigious and highly sought-after residential neighbourhoods. The newly acquired project, with an approximate development area of 15,000 sq. ft, is aligned with Grovy India's vision of creating high-quality, premium residential spaces that reflect modern design, luxury living, and refined urban aesthetics. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Tata Steel added 2.39% to Rs 201.75 after the company reported a sharp 723.14% jump in consolidated net profit to Rs 2688.70 crore on 6.4% increase in revenue from operations to Rs 56,646.05 crore in Q3 FY26 over Q3 FY25. Profit before exceptional items and tax surged 122.92% YoY to Rs 4,008.65 crore during the quarter. However, the company reported a net exceptional loss Rs 139.88 crore in Q3 FY26. The exceptional losses were primarily driven by restructuring and other provisions amounting to Rs 737.19 crore, which represented the largest impact. This was accompanied by impairment of non-current assets of Rs 94.18 crore, provisions for demands and claims of Rs 102.24 crore, employee separation compensation costs of Rs 43.05 crore, and a statutory charge of Rs 81.79 crore arising from the implementation of new labour codes. These exceptional expenses were partially offset by a fair value gain of Rs 918.57 crore on non-current investments. EBITDA jumped 39% YoY to Rs 8,309 crore with a margin of around 15%. India revenues were Rs 35,725 crore and EBITDA was Rs 8,291 crores, which translates to a margin of 23%. During the quarter, Crude steel production was up 12% YoY to 6.34 million tons. Improved production supported deliveries volumes of 6.04 million tons in Q3 FY26, up 14% YoY. UK revenues were euro 468 million and EBITDA loss stood at euro 63 million. Deliveries stood at 0.52 million tons and were impacted by subdued demand and steady imports. The company has spent Rs 3,291 crore on capital expenditure during the quarter. T V Narendran, chief executive officer & managing director, said, Our global operating environment continues to be shaped by tariffs, geopolitical shifts and policy divergence. Steel markets were impacted by elevated finished steel exports from China, which at 119 million tons surpassed the 2015 peak. Against this backdrop, Tata Steel delivered a strong performance in this quarter, with India crude steel production rising 12% while deliveries grew faster at 14% YoY, surpassing the 6 million tons mark in a quarter for the first time. Automotive volumes grew 20% YoY, while our retail vertical gained further momentum. Tata Tiscon continued its growth, and our e-commerce platforms, Aashiyana and DigECA, achieved Gross Merchandise Value of Rs 2,380 crore for the quarter, up 68% YoY. Within the downstream portfolio, our tubes and wires businesses delivered their best-ever quarterly performance, supported by capacity additions, a richer product mix and dominant share in high-value infrastructure projects. Looking ahead, the proposed 4.8 MTPA expansion at NINL and the 0.75 MTPA EAF at Ludhiana will significantly enhance our long products portfolio. At the same time, our strategic partnership in Maharashtra will fortify raw material needs beyond 2030 and help cater to the growing demand in western and southern India. In our overseas operations, deliveries stood at 0.52 million tons in the UK and 1.40 million tons in the Netherlands. Supportive policy frameworks are vital to transition to a more sustainable operating model. While the recent progress in Europe has supported sentiment, the UK market continues to be depressed, and the quota framework needs to be revised to reflect underlying market conditions. Koushik Chatterjee, executive director and chief financial officer, said, For the nine months ended 31st December 2025, EBITDA margin improved by around 300 bps YoY, reflecting strong operational execution and sustained cost discipline. Our cost transformation program, focused on multiple levers including operating KPIs, supply chain efficiencies and procurement, has delivered savings of around Rs 3,000 crore for the quarter and around Rs 8,600 crore for the first nine months of the financial year. During the quarter, consolidated EBITDA was Rs 8,309 crore, translating to a margin of around 15%. In India, domestic steel prices were at multiyear lows weighing on the steel spot spreads. Despite this, our India operations delivered an EBITDA margin of ~23% aided by value led growth and cost optimisation. Both in UK and Netherlands, volumes moderated on QoQ basis. UK performance was adversely impacted by subdued demand dynamics while the Netherlands delivered an EBITDA of euro 55 million. Overall, operating cash flows before capex were Rs 10,345 crore for the quarter. Our consolidated Net debt declined to Rs 81,834 crore. Our group liquidity remains strong at Rs 44,062 crore, which includes cash & cash equivalents of Rs 10,765 crore. In India, we remain focused on volume growth, investments in downstream and strengthening our raw material linkages. UK market conditions continue to be pressured by subdued demand, while policy interventions are taking longer than anticipated to materialise. We are closely monitoring the situation and the evolving tariff framework and CBAM in EU, which are pivotal for rebalancing EU market dynamics. We remain focused on prioritising, optimising and sequencing our capital allocation to balance investment needs with returns, while maintaining financial discipline and long term value creation for stakeholders. Tata Steel group is among the top global steel companies with an annual crude steel capacity of 35 million tonnes per annum. It is one of the world's most geographically diversified steel producers, with operations and commercial presence across the world. Powered by Capital Market - Live News A latest update from Tea Board of India showed that tea production has increased marginally in the past year, as compared to that of 2024. Domestic tea production in 2025 (Jan-Dec) revealed that the country as a whole produced 1369.98 million kg (mkg) of tea, as compared to 1303.53 mkg in 2024. This reflects a rise of 66.45 mkg or 5% in 2025. While production edged higher, Indias tea exports also climbed to a record high in 2025, buoyed by a sharp rise in shipments to Iraq and China, even as geopolitical trade currents remain unsettled. Total Tea exports rose by 9.5% to 280.4 mkg last year, compared with 256.17 mkg in 2024, despite a temporary blip in the US due to elevated tariffs. Iraq emerged as the top destination for the Indian variety. In terms of earnings, unit prices edged up sharply on weakness in Indian Rupee. The per kg export price stood at Rs 302.73 in 2025, up 8.20% on year, pushing up the total export earnings by 18.43% to Rs 8488 crore. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Fractal Analytics IPO: The The initial public offering (IPO) of Fractal Analytics, a global enterprise AI and analytics firm, opens for public subscription on Monday, February 9, 2026. The 2,833.90-crore mainline offering comprises a combination of fresh issue of 11.4 million equity shares worth up to 1,023.5 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of 20.1 million equity shares worth up to 1,810.40 crore. Ahead of its IPO, Fractal Analytics raised 1,248.3 crore from 52 anchor investors on February 6, 2026. The company allocated 13.8 million equity shares to anchor investors at the upper end of the price band of 857 to 900. Marque investors, SBI Small Cap Fund, Life Insurance Corporation of India, ICICI Prudential AMC, Motilal Oswal AMC, UTI AMC, Trust MF, Baroda BNP Paribas MF, Bandhan MF, Invesco India, Sundaram MF, Abakkus, and Union MF, participated in the anchor round. Among the global investors, Morgan Stanley, Amundi Funds, Goldman Sachs, Kuwait Investment Authority, Ashoka WhiteOak, Allspring Global Investments, Societe Generale, Prudent Investment Flexicap Scheme, Integrated Core Strategies, also participated in the anchor book. Fractal Analytics IPO GMP On Monday, the unlisted shares of Fractal Analytics were trading at 913, commanding a marginal grey market premium of 13 or 1.5 per cent against the upper band price, according to the sources tracking unofficial markets. Here are the key details of the Fractal Analytics IPO: Fractal Analytics IPO key dates The subscription window for the issue will close on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The share allotment process is expected to be concluded by Thursday, February 12. The company is expected to list its shares on the exchanges, NSE and BSE, on Monday, February 16, 2026. Fractal Analytics IPO lot size Fractal Analytics has set the price band for the issue in the range of 857 to 900 per share. The lot size for an application is 16 shares. Accordingly, a retail investor would require a minimum investment amount of 14,400 to bid for at least one lot and in multiples thereof. Fractal Analytics IPO registrar, lead manager MUFG Intime India is serving as the registrar for the issue. Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, Axis Capital, Morgan Stanley India Company, and Goldman Sachs (India) Securities are the book-running lead managers. Fractal Analytics IPO objective According to the RHP, the company will use 264.9 crore to invest in its subsidiary, Fractal USA, for debt repayment or prepayment. It will also allocate 57.1 crore for laptops, 121.1 crore for new office premises in India, and 355.1 crore for research and development, as well as sales and marketing under Fractal Alpha. The remaining funds will go toward organic growth, potential acquisitions, and general corporate purposes. Fractal Analytics IPO review According to Swastika Securities, the company has seen a sharp turnaround, moving from a 55 crore loss in FY24 to a 221 crore profit in FY25 on the back of 26 per cent revenue growth. "At the upper band of 900, valuations look expensive at 79x (post) FY25 P/E, but this reflects a scarcity premium for a listed AI platform," the brokerage said in its note. Analysts said the issue is best suited for high-risk, growth-focused investors with a 35 year view looking to ride the global GenAI cycle. Axiscades Technologies shares hit a 5 per cent upper circuit on the BSE at 1,178.4 per share. The buying on the counter came after the company announced a new win in the defence division by its subsidiary Mistral Solutions. At 11:25 AM, Axiscades Technologies share price was locked in the 5 per cent upper band on BSE. In comparison, BSE Sensex was up 0.59 per cent at 84,073.4. Axiscades Technologies announced that its subsidiary Mistral Solutions has received an order worth about 80 crore under Hindustan Aeronautics Ltds (HAL) LCA Mk1A programme, in a move the company said supports the push for indigenisation of avionics systems. In an exchange filing, Axiscades said Mistral will supply electronic hardware for critical subsystems, including the Mission Computer and Smart Multifunction Display for the programme. The company added that the systems will be manufactured and delivered from AXISCADES newly commissioned DAL (Devanahalli Atmanirbhar Complex) facility at the Bangalore Aerospace Park, near Kempegowda International Airport. This programme win reflects the Axiscades Groups continued commitment to defence indigenisation and the Make in India initiative, C. Manikandan, CEO, Mistral Solutions, said in the release, adding that the win positions the group for participation in upcoming defence programmes. Axiscades is a leading, end-to-end technology, product, and solutions provider aiding the creation of innovative, sustainable, and safer products worldwide in the Aerospace, Defence and ESAI domains. Headquartered in Bangalore with subsidiaries and offices worldwide, in France, Germany, Denmark, the USA, and Canada. The company has a diverse team of over 3,000 professionals working across 17 locations across globe, striving to reduce the program risk and time to market, according to the filing. The company has long term relationship with the defence forces, the MoD, defence labs and PSUs along with global OEMs. Axiscades possesses deep domain experience in Weapon Systems, Avionics, Radar, Electronic Warfare, C4I2, Drones, Anti-Drone Systems, Test Solutions, GSE, and GHE. The company has executed several innovative in-house projects and partnered solutions for Land, Naval, Aerospace, and Homeland Security. Gems & Jewellery stocks movement today Shares of gems & jewellery companies were in demand, zooming up to 18 per cent on the BSE in Mondays intra-day trade amid heavy volumes after the United States (US)-India released the trade deal framework. The companies from the sector so far announced results, have posted strong earnings for the quarter ended December 2025 (Q3FY26). Among individual stocks, Goldiam International rallied 18 per cent to 429.35 on the back of a three-fold jump in the average trading volumes. In the past one week, the stock has zoomed 43 per cent after the US and India announced a trade deal. The share price of Kalyan Jewellers India soared 12 per cent to 424.85 on the back of near four-fold rise in the average trading volumes. Senco Gold surged 7 per cent to 355.75, followed by P N Gadgil Jewellers (6.5 per cent at 585.2), Thangamayil Jewellery (5.5 per cent at 3,559.30), Rajesh Exports (5 per cent at 181.75), Renaissance Global (4 per cent at 124.95), BlueStone Jewellery and Lifestyle (3 per cent at 443) and Titan Company (2 per cent at 4,227.80). In comparison, the BSE Sensex was up 0.6 per cent at 84,045 at 10:41 AM. India-US trade deal framework India and the US on Saturday announced they have agreed on an interim trade framework aimed at enhancing bilateral trade toward a $500 billion target over five years. Under the US-India interim trade agreement the tariff on cut and polished diamonds (CPDs) could go back to zero subject to the successful conclusion of the interim agreement between both sides. Tariffs to come down to 18 per cent for India after an executive order has been issued which could be earlier than March. India majorly exports cut and polished diamonds, lab-grown synthetic diamonds, coloured gemstones, synthetic stone, plain and studded gold jewellery, silver and platinum jewellery, imitation jewellery and articles of gold, silver and others. Indias gem and jewellery exports to the United States witnessed a sharp contraction during the AprilDecember 2025, declining 44.42 per cent year-on-year to $ 3.86 billion, compared to $ 6.95 billion in the corresponding period last year. In December 2025, exports to the US declined by 50.44 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the continued impact of tariff-related pressures and subdued discretionary demand, ICICI Securities said in a note. If tariff rates on gems and jewellery are reduced to zero, it will bring major relief to Indias gems and jewellery sector, which counts the US as its largest export market, contributing about 30 per cent of industry sales. Key beneficiaries would be gems and jewellery exports such as Renaissance Global and Goldiam International, the brokerage firms said. Kalyan Jewellers, Goldiams strong Q3 result Despite the tariff overhang, festive season demand in the US during Q3 FY2026 helped Goldiam, an integrated manufacturer and supplier of fine diamond jewellery to leading retailers and wholesalers in the USA, to report 18 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth in consolidated revenue at 339.7 crore in Q3FY26. Lab Grown Diamond jewellery exports contributed 90.5 per cent to the overall export sales mix during Q3FY26, compared to 80 per cent in Q3FY25. The companys profit after tax (PAT) jumped 37.4 per cent YoY at 68.4 crore in Q3FY26 from 49.8 crore in Q3FY25. Reported earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) margin expanded 211bps to 26.7 per cent in Q3FY26 from 24.6 per cent in Q3FY25. Goldiams order book position as on December 31, 2025 was at about 180 crore. This order book is expected to be executed in the next three-four months. E-commerce sales, given their nature of being booked online (on a spot basis), are not part of the order book, the company said. Meanwhile, Kalyan Jewellers reported 90 per cent YoY growth in consolidated PAT at 416.30 crore in Q3FY26, against 218.7 crore in Q3FY25. Revenue jumped 42 per cent YoY to 10,343 crore from 7,278 crore a year ago. Reported EBITDA margin improved 135bps to 7.26 per cent in Q3FY26. The management said margin expansion was driven by mix improvement, procurement efficiencies, operating leverage, higher share of FOCO revenue, and gains in platinum and silver. ==================================== Disclaimer: View and outlook shared on the stock belong to the respective brokerages and are not endorsed by Business Standard. Readers discretion is advised. The Indian foreign exchange trading system of financial technology and data provider LSEG has resumed functioning, four traders said on Monday, following technical glitches in early trade. The matter was resolved around 11.30 am after traders had flagged issues with execution of trades on the interbank order matching system more than two hours earlier, curbing ability to transact on the spot dollar/rupee trading platform. LSEG did not immediately respond to a Reuters email seeking comment. The traders sought anonymity as they are not authorised to speak to the media. LSEG is among a few entities besides banks authorised by the Reserve Bank of India to operate an electronic trading platform for transactions in the spot foreign exchange market. While the technical issues hampered early trading activity for some banks, others were able to execute trades in thinner trading volumes. The rupee was quoted at 90.4025 per dollar, up 0.3 per cent on the day. "Bid-offer spreads (on USD/INR) were relatively wider in early trading," said a trader at a Mumbai-based bank, referring to the impact of the technical issues. Previous such outages have caused intermittent volatility in the currency but traders said the room for sharp swings was muted this time, as it was not close to key psychological levels. Sterlite Technologies (STL) share price today hit an 18-month high of 143.6 per share, as it surged 8 per cent on the BSE in Mondays intra-day trade. The stock price of the company engaged in the telecom equipment and accessories business is quoting at its highest level since August 2025. In the past 10 trading days, the market price of STLs has zoomed 66 per cent from the level of 86.35 on January 27, 2026. At 2:04 PM, Sterlite Technologies stock was quoting 7 per cent higher at 141.20, as compared to a 0.51 per cent gain in the BSE Sensex. Whats driving Sterlite Technologies' share price? STL is a global leader in advanced connectivity solutions, providing end-to-end solutions for building AI-ready infrastructure, FTTx, rural, enterprise, and data centre networks. Year-to-date (Y-T-D) of FY26, STL has recorded 4,263 crore in orders, a strong 40.3 per cent growth over last year. The board of directors of the STL, at their meeting held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, has approved the allotment to Twin Star Overseas, the promoter of the company, of up to 45.3 million warrants, at a price of 110 per warrant aggregating up to 498.3 crore by way of preferential issue on a private placement basis. ALSO READ | Down up to 43% in 7 months, analyst turns bullish on these 3 stocks Each warrant will be convertible into, or exchangeable for 1 fully paid-up equity share of the company of face value of 2, which may be exercised in one or more tranches during a period of 18 months commencing from the date of allotment of the warrants, the company said. Meanwhile, on January 22, 2026, STL, a leading connectivity solutions provider for AI-ready digital infrastructure, announced the successful collaboration with Colt Technology Services (Colt) for the Multi-Core Fibre (MCF) trials executed across Colts London metro optical network in London, UK. This marks a significant milestone in real-world validation of MCF technology as a sustainable, high-capacity, cost-efficient backbone for next-generation networks supporting AI, cloud, and digital services, the company said. Meanwhile, STL is at the intersection of three powerful multiyear investment cycles: FTTx, data centers, and 5G, creating a strong structural tailwind of optical infrastructure. ALSO READ | SCI jumps 19% to 2-mth high as Q3 net profit surges; buy or book profit? FTTx is accelerating globally, with deployments rising from 151 million fiber kilometers to 170 million fiber kilometers by 2030. In the US alone, over 100 million homes will be served by fiber by 2030, supported by large government programs like BEAD and BharatNet in India, STL said in its Q3 earnings conference call. Data centers are the fastest-growing driver of fiber demand. CRU projects global DCled demand to grow at a 76 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025, with hyperscalers driving long-haul and inter-data centre connectivity. Global DC capex is expected to approach almost $600 billion by 2027. 5G is also scaling rapidly, with 6.3 billion subscriptions expected by 2030, carrying 80 per cent of all mobile data traffic. This requires a massive amount of fiber backhaul, fronthaul, and network densification. Together, these three cycles are creating a structural multiyear demand tailwind for fiber and connectivity, positioning STL at the center of the next global digital infrastructure buildout, the company said. Vodafone Idea share price today Vodafone Idea (Vi) share price gained 4 per cent to 11.62 on the BSE in Monday's intraday trade, amid heavy volumes, after promoter Kumar Mangalam Birla bought additional 40.9 million equity shares of the company via open market. At 11:49 AM, Vi stock was quoting 3.8 per cent higher at 11.55, as compared to 0.53 per cent rise in the BSE Sensex. Nearly 380 million equity shares have together changed hands on the NSE and BSE so far in the session. The stock price of the telecom services provider had hit a 52-week high of 12.80 on December 31, 2025. Kumar Mangalam Birla buys 40.9 million shares of Vi via open market According to stock exchange disclosure made by Vi, the company's promoter Kumar Mangalam Birla bought a total of 40.9 million shares, representing 0.04 per cent stake in the company, for 45.18 crore between January 30 and February 1 from open market. Kumar Mangalam Birla purchased 22.1 million shares on January 30 at an average price of 10.95 per share, and another 18.8 million shares on February 1 at 11.13 per share. CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS CHECK Stock Market LIVE Updates As of December 31, 2025, Kumar Mangalam Birla held 19.46 million shares, or 0.02 per cent stake in Vi. Total promoters holding, meanwhile, stood at 25.57 per cent in Vi at that time, shareholding pattern data shows. CARE Ratings on Vi CARE Ratings (CareEdge Ratings) has revised its outlook on 'long-term bank facilities' of Vi from "Stable" to "Positive" while re-affirming its rating at 'CARE BBB-'. The revision in ratings follows the announcement on adjusted gross revenue (AGR) relief by Department of Telecommunication (DoT), which strengthens VIL's long-term debt tie-up prospects in accelerating network capex investments, thus enabling improvement in its operating performance. Government of India's decision, the rating agency said, to defer payment of AGR dues by an additional 10 years, without interest accrual on the frozen amount of 87,695 crore, has eased near-term liquidity pressure. "The previous regulatory support measures encompassing the conversion of spectrum dues aggregating 36,950 crore into equity in March 2025, combined with the recent AGR relief, underscore the strategic importance of the telecom sector and Vi, in particular, for GoI and the philosophy of promoting healthy competition. Post conversion of spectrum dues, GoI holds a 49 per cent stake in Vi as on December 31, 2025, while operational control continues to rest with promoters- Vodafone Group Plc (VGP) and Aditya Birla Group (ABG)," it said. With improved funding visibility, CARE Ratings added, Vi plans to undertake capex investments, with total outlay of ~45,000 crore over FY27-FY29. Timely scaling up of the capex programme remains critical for improving network competitiveness, growing subscriber base, and supporting average revenue per user (Arpu) expansion. Going forward, achieving envisaged growth in subscriber base on sustained basis is a key rating sensitivity, the rating agency said in its rationale. Meanwhile, domestic brokerage Emkay Global Financial Services has upgraded Vi stock to 'Add' from 'Sell' and has doubled its share price target to 12 from 6 as it believes the government's decision to provide a major moratorium for Vi's AGR liabilities, with minimal annual payments until FY35, will provide significant cash flow relief and a turnaround opportunity. "The relief reduces the net present value (NPV) of the burden by 60-80 per cent, easing immediate survival pressure, along with the possibility of further reduction on reassessment of AGR dues. This will enable Vi to access bank funding for 4G/5G expansion, helping the company arrest subscriber churn and market-share loss. We raise our target to 12 (from 6)," it said in a report. Continued migration to data, rising usage, and tariff repair provide scope for Arpu-led Ebitda expansion even without aggressive subscriber additions, Emkay Global said. Factoring in these changes, the brokerage has raised its FY27/FY28 revenue estimates by 5 per cent/4.9 per cent and Ebitda estimates by 5.4 per cent/4.2 per cent. Vi's blended Arpu (average revenue per user) reportedly expanded from 164 in FY25 to 172 in Q3FY26 led by plan upgrades besides improvement in the subscriber base mix. The Indian telecom sector is likely to witness another tariff hike in FY27, which with better subscriber mix and robust demand outlook is expected to contribute to substantial improvement in ARPU of all players, including Vi. Going forward, sustained improvement in subscriber trends, ARPU, and consequent profit before interest, depreciation, lease rentals and tax (PBILDT) constitute key rating monitorable, CareEdge Ratings said.Meanwhile, domestic brokerage Emkay Global Financial Services has upgraded Vi stock to 'Add' from 'Sell' and has doubled its share price target to 12 from 6 as it believes the government's decision to provide a major moratorium for Vi's AGR liabilities, with minimal annual payments until FY35, will provide significant cash flow relief and a turnaround opportunity."The relief reduces the net present value (NPV) of the burden by 60-80 per cent, easing immediate survival pressure, along with the possibility of further reduction on reassessment of AGR dues. This will enable Vi to access bank funding for 4G/5G expansion, helping the company arrest subscriber churn and market-share loss. We raise our target to 12 (from 6)," it said in a report. "While the long-term sustainability of the company is no more a concern, we believe that Vi will have to execute well to gain subscriber market share and migrate the subscriber base from 2G to 4G/5G," it said, valuing the stock at 12.5x/11.5x FY27/FY28 EV/Ebitda. Inability to increase subscriber market share; significantly increase Arpu with tariff repair, and upgrade the subscriber base from 2G to 4G/5G will remain key risks/monitorales for the Vodafone Idea, it added. ==================================== The Soviets couldnt keep up in the arms race. It pushed the nation to near-bankruptcy and triggered a catastrophic disintegration. The Union broke up into 13 countries, and its Warsaw Pact satellites petitioned to become members of the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. But why did the Soviet Union get wiped out? It controlled huge land areas with ample natural resources. It had an excellent educational system, which nurtured a highly skilled workforce. (Even today Russia has a much higher percentage of graduates than the US.) It had good research & development ecosystems and roughly matched the West in terms of space programmes and weaponry. It even had deep cultural traditions that produced writers, musicians, artists, and ballet dancers. The critical difference lay in contrasting political systems. The West had functional democracies, where voters could vote out bad governments. It had educational systems where students and professors could discuss awkward subjects like slavery, colonialism, racism, gender bias and political chicanery and that translated into corrective action over the decades. Freedom of speech allowed citizens to protest policies they disliked. Writers, musicians, artists and filmmakers could tackle sensitive subjects and criticise anything or anybody. Freedom of labour meant an EU citizen could live anywhere in the EU and the US attracted talent from all over the world, which gravitated to its great universities, research institutes, and into industry. Economic freedom also meant scientific and engineering breakthroughs were rapidly converted into mass-market money-making ideas. The internet started as a defence project. The Soviet space programme matched that of the US, but it made no difference to the lives of Soviet citizens. Meanwhile, US National Aeronautics and Space Administration tendered out to the private sector, and licensed thousands of patents that transformed industries ranging from textiles and telemedicine to gym equipment, solar power, water supply, and robotics. Moreover, other economic barriers came down. Supply chains went global to the point where it is now difficult to trace where every component of a car or cellphone is made. There have been some interesting developments since the 1990s. One was Chinas adoption of a hybrid model that allows economic freedom and constructive greed to flourish, while firmly damping political aspirations. To a lesser degree, various repressive regimes in Asia and West Asia have fostered similar models with some degree of success. Sadly, Russia has turned into a repressive oligarchy rather than adopting the Chinese model of vibrant economic competition. The hybrid model led to the success of the Asian Tigers and it has catapulted China to near the top of the global economic heap. Intriguingly, although democracy came late to South Korea and Taiwan, it seemed an inevitable progression once per capita in those nations rose to the high-income zone. Will this also happen in China? This has played out over decades. But another interesting development has occurred only in the last year. Having won the Cold War due to possessing an open society that encouraged talent to migrate into the country, and having dominated the global economy by being its largest buyer of goods and services, the US now seems to be looking to move towards the Soviet and post-Soviet models. The Trump government has shut down freedom of labour by its anti-immigration policies. It has discouraged freedom of thought on university campuses and in the media. It has encouraged oligarchies. It has taken a string of anti-scientific positions on healthcare, and climate change. It has forced its own citizens to pay huge tariffs on imports, and it is raising H-1B visa fees, which will cause similar frictions in high-end services. It is disengaging from the United Nations. Cooperatives are effective neighbourhood institutions, operate on self-help and mutuality, have lower costs, and provide service to people left out of mainstream banking. Promoting cooperatives as a developmental activity was emphatically affirmed in 1954 by the All-India Rural Credit Survey Committee, which said that if co-operatives fail, there fails the last hope of rural India. The RBI gets into a dilemma when it is unable to square up the form of incorporation of a cooperative and the regulatory imperatives. Regulations are designed towards capital-centric widely-held listed entities. While no new licences for cooperative banks were issued since 2001, the talk of issuing new licences crops up every five years: The Malegam Committee (2011) and the Gandhi Committee (2015) suggested that new licences be given, while the Vishwanathan Committee (2021) was a bit circumspect. Five years later, in 2026, the RBI again brought up the issue and placed a discussion paper inviting comments on the nature of new licences for cooperative banks. Cooperatives operate on the principles of open membership, democratic control, and mutuality. Open membership allows anyone to contribute to share capital (at par) at any time. It also allows members to withdraw their share capital on termination of membership again at par making the capital of a cooperative almost like a checking account. Democratic control technically allows any member (including borrower members) to be elected to the governing board. If a cooperative becomes a bank and thereby a large institution with a national footprint it loses the core of mutuality. Therefore, cooperatives in general, and cooperative banks in particular, have always been fraught, with some notable exceptions like the Ahmedabad-based Shri Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank, promoted by Magsaysay awardee Ela Bhatt and Mann Deshi Cooperative Bank, based in Satara. The design of cooperatives envisages patronage-based organisations in small neighbourhoods running on the principle of mutual benefit. Cooperative societies fit this idea of providing the basic service of loans and savings. However, it does not have the scope to provide modern banking service (like remittances, credit cards, export credit, and any form of corporate funding) if the organisation were to be truly member-centric. All these come with scale. A cooperative bank is, therefore, an oxymoron. A cooperative as a patronage-based institution is to deal with members (who contribute to share capital and vote). And a bank is to deal with the public at large. A small cooperative society makes sense. A cooperative bank does not. This is where the dilemma of the RBI comes in. If the RBI were to issue more licences, then the applicants ought to be small unitary institutions with a low capital base. The regulator will have to deal with several independent institutions with one or a few branches. As on March 31, 2025, there were 838 cooperative banks having deposits of less than 100 crore. All these were to be independently regulated. Compare this with State Bank of India, a single bank that would have more than 23,000 branches where regulation can be done on the basis of their systems and inspections of sample branches. The nature of incorporation of the cooperatives with share capital that can be withdrawn and open membership is not amenable to the usual prudential regulations of banking. Most of the cooperatives are under state laws, given that cooperation falls on the State List (of the Constitution). While the duality of regulation has been addressed through amendments to the Banking Regulation Act, it will be difficult for the RBI to regulate a large number of newer institutions effectively a situation where a cooperative is too small to be regulated by the RBI, and, if it grows big, it is too large to be a cooperative. Historically using the banking licence, cooperative banks have grown to be behemoths. They possibly fail on the twin tests of being a true cooperative: Membership is not truly open; and the non-member business is more significant than the member business. In the process, issuing licences to cooperative banks is nothing but issuing banking licences through the back door to a set of promoters (with closed membership) and do not qualify for a regular bank. In this context, the RBI needs to think out of the box vis-a-vis cooperative banks. In the western world, the individual client interface happens through cooperative societies, while sophisticated banking happens at federated level. This is a possible solution. Capital at federated level is more stable. Individual primary cooperatives hardly walk out of the federation using the open-membership principle. Governance and regulatory architecture could be completely aligned with those of universal banks. Instead of issuing more licences to primary banks, the RBI should look at encouraging setting up at least two federal institutions nationally and/or permitting Tier-IV cooperative banks (having more than 10,000 crore as deposits) to affiliate smaller cooperatives. The umbrella organisation, already in existence, could become a federal cooperative bank. With a choice of affiliation available to the primaries, the RBI should cancel the licences of unitary (single-branch) cooperative banks and convert them into cooperative societies. These can seek banking service from national behemoths. These national entities could carry the word cooperative, with an understanding that they are banks of cooperatives rather than being cooperative banks. They would provide value-added service to neighbourhood cooperatives, under a common brand. New cooperative societies can be continually promoted and affiliated with any of these federal institutions. This eases the RBIs regulatory burden while providing an open path for new inclusion efforts at the grassroots. Will the RBI think boldly? That is quite a question. The most visible reform that affects all international travellers arriving in India and a pleasant surprise is the introduction of the Baggage Rules, 2026. The duty-free allowance for most passengers arriving by air or sea has been increased from 50,000 to 75,000. Foreign tourists have also been granted a higher exemption than earlier, while airline crew members benefit from a modest increase in their allowance. The new rules rationalise jewellery import norms by moving away from value-based limits to clear, weight-based caps. Baggage declarations can now be filed electronically in advance. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a very comprehensive and helpful circular explaining in detail various provisions of the new rules. The units in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) had been demanding that their clearances in the domestic tariff area (DTA) should not attract full customs duty applicable for goods imported from abroad but should only require surrender of duty exemption availed on the inputs used for making the goods. They were surprised that the government ignored this demand. Instead, the finance minister has proposed, as a special one-time measure, to facilitate sales by eligible manufacturing units in SEZ to DTA at concessional rates of duty with the quantity of such sales limited to a prescribed proportion of their exports. The Commerce Ministry is yet to issue any notifications to that effect. The allocation for 2026-27 under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) has been reduced to 10,000 crore. The actual for 2024-25 was 18,313 crore and the budgeted and revised estimates for 2025-26 are 18,233 crore. Similarly, the allocation for 2026-27 under the Rebate on State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) has been cut to 5,000 crore. The actual for 2024-25 was 8,565 crore and the budgeted estimate was 10710 crore and the revised estimate is 10010 crore. Why such drastic cuts in allocations have been made is difficult to understand. So, this too, is a surprise. The US and Russia currently account for 90 per cent of all nuclear weapons. But there are now a total of nine nuclear-armed states, which collectively account for 12,241 warheads as of January 2025. Of those 9,614 are in military stockpiles for potential use, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri). Apart from the US and Russia, the remaining seven the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel have expanded and upgraded their programmes through 2024 and 2025. India, for instance, has overtaken Pakistan with 180 warheads, against Islamabads 170. Of particular concern is China, with 600 warheads in military stockpiles, reckoned to be the worlds fastest-growing nuclear arsenal. With 350 intercontinental ballistic missile silos in the works, Sipri estimates that by the turn of the decade, China could have at least as many intercontinental ballistic missiles as Russia or the US. It would be unrealistic, therefore, for any future START-type agreement to exclude China. There are also signs that the nuclear-arms race is gaining traction with more states in West Asia, East Europe, and East Asia, where perceptions of security threats and the tide of nationalism are rising. This adds a menacing new dimension to the cause of global peace and security. It is axiomatic that the possession of nuclear weapons in itself does not prevent conflict the low-intensity skirmishes between India and Pakistan being a case in point. But they come embedded with the constant threat of nuclear escalation, especially in countries led by hyper-nationalistic leaders such as Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, or Xi Jinping. That is why a multilateral treaty involving all nuclear-armed nations and potential entrants has become increasingly critical, and the means to do so lies with the principal nuclear powers. Further, India has ensured that certain lines of agricultural goods remain protected. Some farm goods from the US fruit, soybean oil, and nuts among them will be allowed into Indian markets now. But major domestic products, including rice, wheat, poultry, and dairy, will remain protected. Meanwhile, major industrial goods will apparently face sharply reduced tariffs, though it remains to be seen which are zero-rated and what the glide path is for the others. Either way, this is a win for Indian consumers, who in a short while have seen important sectors freed up to trade from both the European Union and the US. India has also promised to buy $500 billion worth of goods from America. Major commitments to buy aircraft from Boeing will comprise a reasonable chunk of that; and if increased purchases of fossil fuels do indeed materialise, that too will help. There have long been plans to diversify imports of coking coal away from Australia, and the US is a possible alternative. Finally, if major investment in data centres fructifies perhaps incentivised somewhat by the tax holiday announced in the recent Union Budget shipments of the graphics-processing units, or GPUs, which are the backbone of such installations, could be a major chunk of this $500 billion commitment. On a day of several developments, including the Opposition expressing its intent to move a resolution for the removal of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday countered criticism from a member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) that the Union Budget 2026-27 ignored Tamil Nadu. While the Lok Sabha could not transact any business because of Opposition protests, the Rajya Sabha took up a discussion on the Budget. Participating in the debate, the DMK, which is the ruling party in Tamil Nadu, and AIADMK, a constituent of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), targeted each other over the announcements and projects for their state. Assembly polls are scheduled in the state in April-May. In his speech, DMK MP P Wilson called upon the Prime Minister and Finance Minister to be fair to Tamil Nadu. He also accused the government of abject surrender to the US in striking a one-sided trade deal and demanded that it disclose the specifics of the pact. In her response, Sitharaman said the Budget had several announcements, including the rare earth corridor and girls hostels in every district, that would benefit the state. She said sweeping statements, like the one that the DMK MP made, that too without any basis, link with the Budget which has been presented only eight days ago, is not right at all. She highlighted other Budget announcements related to the coconut scheme and fishermen, saying they will also benefit Tamil Nadu, among other states. Initiating the discussion on the Budget in the Rajya Sabha (RS), senior Congress leader P Chidambaram questioned the government for cutting capital expenditure in 2025-26 when the public sector, private sector and foreign investors are not investing in India. He termed Union Budget 2026-27 a forgettable Budget. He said the government has cut allocations for agriculture and rural development. This is a forgettable Budget, which has been prepared by a finance minister, who forgot her promises made in this House last year, Chidambaram said. The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Monday afternoon amid the continuing stand-off between the government and the Opposition over Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi's demand that he be allowed to speak before the discussion on the Union Budget begins. When the House met at 2 pm after two adjournments, Sandhya Ray, who was in the Chair, asked Congress member Shashi Tharoor to initiate the debate on the Budget. Tharoor told the Chair that Gandhi, being the LoP, should be allowed to raise certain points before he starts his speech. Ray said she had no issues if Gandhi wanted to speak on the Budget and asked him to begin. Gandhi said at a meeting between Speaker Om Birla and some Opposition MPs, an agreement was reached that he would be allowed to raise certain points before the Budget discussion. However, the Chair was now reneging on its word, he claimed. Ray said she was not aware of any such agreement and that she could not allow anyone to raise any issue without notice. At this point, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju intervened, saying there was no such agreement and if the LoP wanted to say something about the Speaker, then Birla should also be present in the House to respond. With both sides refusing to relent, Ray adjourned the House for the day. Addressing the media inside the Parliament House complex, Gandhi said those claiming that there was a threat to the prime minister from Congress women MPs last Thursday should file an FIR against the persons threatening Modi. He said the government is scared of having a discussion on the Budget because of the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, and its impact on farmers. Gandhi said the reason the PM didnt come to the Lok Sabha and reply to the motion of thanks to the Presidents address because he cannot face the truth and of being handed (former Army chief General M M) Naravane's book. In another development, DMK MP Tiruchi Siva said he had submitted a breach of privilege notice against Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal for sharing details of an interim trade deal between India and the US in a media interview while Parliament was in session. Siva raised the issue soon after the Rajya Sabha met at 11 am and papers were tabled. Chairman C P Radhakrishnan said he would look into it. The opposition, according to sources, is considering moving a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking in the House on the motion of thanks to the president's address, as well as for the suspension of eight MPs. Sources said a notice for the resolution is likely to be given under Article 94-C of the Constitution, and over 100 opposition MPs have already signed it. But not all Opposition parties are on board yet with the Trinamool Congress keen on taking up the special intensive revision (SIR) issue in the House and the Samajwadi Party wanting to highlight the alleged insult of Malwa queen Ahilyabai Holkar. On Monday, Gandhi along with Trinamools Abhishek Banerjee, Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav and DMK's T R Baalu, met Speaker Birla soon after the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day to work out a solution and end the stalemate. Women Congress MPs have written to Birla over the unsubstantiated allegations made by him against them. In the letter by several women MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, they objected to charges made by the Speaker. The BJP-led Mahayuti swept the Zilla Parishad and panchayat samiti polls in Maharashtra, results of which were declared on Monday, continuing the winning streak that started with the stellar performance in the 2024 assembly polls. The Mahayuti won 552 of 731 ZP seats and more than 1000 of the 1462 panchayat samiti seats, the State Election Commission said. In the ruling Mahayuti, the BJP led with 225 ZP seats, followed by 165 for the Nationalist Congress Party and 162 for the Shiv Sena. In the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, the Congress emerged on top with 55 ZP seats, followed by 43 for the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and 26 for Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP). The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena won a seat each in Latur and Ratnagiri. Independents won 20 seats, unrecognised parties registered with the SEC got 14 and parties registered with SEC won seven. NCP won the Pune ZP getting 51 of 73 seats. The NCP and NCP (SP) had contested on the 'clock' symbol, the elections taking place just days after the death of Ajit Pawar on January 28 in a plane crash. Shiv Sena won Raigad ZP getting 23 of 59 seats. The Eknath Shinde-led party also won 41 of 56 seats in Ratnagiri ZP. BJP scored in Sindhudurg emerging victorious on 27 of 50 seats. The BJP also emerged as the single largest party in Satara, Solapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Parbhani, Dharashiv, Satara and Latur. Congress was the single largest party in Kolhapur. In the 1462 seats in 125 panchayat samitis, the BJP won 459, followed by 306 for the NCP and 302 for the Shiv Sena. The Congress won 97, NCP (SP) 46 and Shiv Sena (UBT) 89. The MNS won two seats, Independents 31, unrecognised parties registered with SEC 36, while parties recognised outside the state but registered with the SEC got 17 seats, the poll body said. Results of 24 seats in Karad were awaited, it added. Counting of votes for elections to 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis began at 10 am. PM Modi thanks Maharashtra for BJP-led Mahayuti's win in ZP polls Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday thanked the people of Maharashtra for supporting the BJP-led Mahayuti in the zilla parishad elections, terming it as a vote for "good governance." "Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti! After the resounding success of the BJP and Mahayuti in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the people of Maharashtra have given a strong mandate to us in the Zilla Parishad elections," Modi said in a post on X. The BJP, Shiv Sena, and the NCP of the Mahayuti were on course of a resounding victory in the zilla parishad elections in Maharashtra having taken a decisive lead in over 560 of the 731 seats that went to polls in 12 zilla parishad and 125 panchayat samitis. The prime minister said the results make it clear that across rural and urban Maharashtra, the people of the state want good governance and an alliance which works in the spirit of the state's glorious culture. "I express gratitude to my sisters and brothers of Maharashtra," he said. Modi also complimented every worker of the Mahayuti for working "tirelessly" on the ground and elaborating on the solid track record of the Maharashtra government as well as NDA's vision for good governance. Congress' women MPs in the Lok Sabha wrote to Speaker Om Birla on Monday, claiming that under pressure from the ruling party to defend the "non-appearance" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he made grave allegations against them. They urged the Speaker to act as an impartial custodian of the Lower House. Their letter to the Speaker comes days after Birla stated in the House that he had "concrete information" that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Modi's seat and carry out "some unexpected act" as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. Speaking about the letter signed by her, along with other women MPs of the Congress, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "There is so much pressure on the Speaker which is not right. There is no question of anyone raising a hand on the PM or do anything like this. There are 11 women MPs, they are all serious MPs." "He (Birla) should not have made the statement, he has been pressured to say it by the government and that is why he made the statement because Modi ji did not have the courage to come to the House that day so the Speaker is giving clarification on his behalf. This is wrong," she told reporters. In their letter, the women MPs of the Congress in the Lok Sabha said that, clearly pressured by the ruling party to defend the "non-appearance of the Prime Minister", Birla issued a statement making grave allegations against the women MPs of the party. "We are being targeted simply because we have consistently fought against Prime Minister Narender Modi's anti-people government and demanded accountability from him. His absence from the House was not due to any threat from us, it was an act of fear," said the letter signed by MPs like Priyanka Gandhi, Jyothimani, R Sudha, Varsha Gaikwad and Jyotsna Mahant. "He (PM) did not have the courage to face the Opposition. We are Members of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, a party that stands for love, peace, constitutional values, and human dignity. We do not believe in violence and intimidation. We are brave women elected representatives who will not be silenced by intimidation," the Congress' women MPs said. "We believe that transparency is the only way to restore the dignity of the Speaker's office and the credibility of this House," they said. The women MPs further said they have the utmost respect for the Speaker's office and for his good self. "However, it is amply clear that you are under sustained pressure from the ruling party. We urge you once again to act as the impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha. We will stand with you and support you wholeheartedly in this endeavour," the women MPs said. "Let history remember you as one who stood for what was right in the most trying circumstances and upheld constitutional propriety for the good of the nation. Let it not remember you as one who bowed to pressure from those who leave no stone unturned in subverting constitutional values and damaging the democratic fabric of our nation," they said. In the letter, the women MPs said they are writing to Birla with deep anguish and a strong sense of constitutional responsibility. "It is extremely unfortunate that you, as the Hon'ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the constitutional custodian of this august house, have been forced by the ruling party to make: false, baseless, and defamatory allegations against women Members of Parliament belonging to the Opposition, particularly from the Congress," the MPs said. "The Speaker's Chair is a constitutional office meant to protect the dignity of Parliament, ensure fairness, and safeguard the rights of all Members, irrespective of party affiliation," the MPs said. During the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address, established parliamentary convention mandates that both the ruling party and the opposition are allowed to speak, after which the prime minister replies, they said. "Yet, for the past four consecutive days, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Rahul Gandhi, has been deliberately denied this opportunity in the Lok Sabha. This is unprecedented and indefensible," they said. On the other hand, eight members of Parliament from the INDIA bloc were suspended on the behest of the ruling party and a BJP MP was permitted to speak in a vulgar and obscene manner about former prime ministers, they said. "...At 5 pm, violating conventional procedure, the prime minister was scheduled to speak in the Lok Sabha. All members of the INDIA alliance rose in protest and the prime minister failed to appear in the House," they said. "The next day, clearly pressured by the ruling party to defend the non-appearance of the prime minister, you issued a statement making grave allegations against the women MPs of the Congress," the MPs said. In an unprecedented development, the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on Thursday last without the prime minister's customary reply that was scheduled a day earlier in the face of relentless sloganeering by opposition members. An anguished Lok Sabha Speaker last Thursday said he had "concrete information" that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Modi's seat and carry out "some unexpected act" as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. Theres a unique beauty to a fine mechanical watch, one that transcends utility. The slow rhythm of gears, the sweep of the second hand, the soft click of the crown, all echo the same fascination that draws an enthusiast to the intricacies beneath the hood of an exquisite car. For decades, luxury carmakers and Swiss horologists have turned this shared obsession into an art form. From Porsches partnership with TAG Heuer to Maseratis collaboration with Bianchet, Lamborghinis alliance with Roger Dubuis, and Mercedes-Benzs long-standing tie-up with IWC, these collaborations ensure that a brands engineering philosophy lives not just in its machines but also on the wrists of its admirers. A Mumbai-based industrialist and collector likens mechanical watches and classic cars to a meeting point of precision and artistic expression. While technology has shifted towards the digital from smartwatches to electric vehicles he believes the allure of pure mechanics endures, cherished as objects of elegance and technical poetry. Both cars and fine watches share a lasting emotional connection that transcends generations, preserving stories that few possessions can match, adds a Delhi-based consultant. Twin legacy Bentley x Breitling No chronicle of automotive-watch collaborations would be complete without the Breitling for Bentley story. The partnership began in 2003, when Breitling designed the dashboard clock for Bentleys Continental GT. Over nearly two decades, they produced timepieces that fused British opulence with Swiss precision: From knurled bezels echoing Bentley grilles to dials inspired by vintage dashboards. Though the collaboration ended in 2021, models like the Chronomat B01 42 Bentley (pictured) remain touchstones of timeless craftsmanship. Engineering excellence Mercedes-Benz x IWC Schaffhausen At the refined end of the spectrum lies the alliance between Mercedes-Benz and IWC Schaffhausen, which began in 2004. IWC became the official engineering partner of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team in 2013, blending German precision with Swiss craftsmanship. Among its standout pieces, the Pilots Watch Chronograph 41 edition (approx 8.63 lakh; pictured) features a 41 mm titanium case, IWCs calibre 69385 movement, and signature green detailing. The Pilots Watch Performance Chronograph 41 edition, with a lightweight tougher-than-steel Ceratanium case (about 27 lakh), exemplifies technical mastery. At the pinnacle sits the Big Pilots Watch Constant-Force Tourbillon AMG One Owners, created exclusively for the 275 buyers of the Mercedes-AMG Project One hypercar. Endurance & elegance Maserati x Bianchet If Porsche represents precision, Maserati stands for passion. In 2024, Maserati MSG Racing teamed up with Swiss haute horlogerie brand Bianchet to craft two flying tourbillon watches each limited to 21 pieces and made from a hybrid carbon-titanium composite. Water-resistant up to 10 ATM and shockproof to 5,000 G, they reflect both brands dedication to endurance and elegance, says Philippe Claverol, Maseratis head of overseas region. Priced at about 68.8 lakh each, the Flying Tourbillon Grande Date B1.618 Hybrid Blue (pictured) and Carbon editions come with exclusive experiences including visits to the teams Monaco headquarters and access to its racing simulator. Race with time TAG Heuer x Porsche Formalised in 2021, the TAG Heuer-Porsche partnership celebrates a shared motorsport legacy that began decades earlier. In the late 1960s, Swiss racing driver and Porsche works driver, Jo Siffert, became one of Heuers first brand ambassadors, wearing the logo on his suit and selling the watches to fellow racers. Both brands also share roots in the Carrera Panamericana, the legendary Mexican road race. Porsche adopted Carrera for its high-performance models, while Jack Heuer used the name for his iconic 1963 chronograph. The first release, the limited-edition TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph (pictured), fused the DNA of both marques with a tachymeter bezel, a 44 mm steel case, and Porsche-inspired design cues. The collaboration has since evolved into the Carrera Chronosprint X Porsche, marking 60 years of both the TAG Heuer Carrera and Porsche 911. The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Porsche Edition, inspired by the Taycan, reflects electric future. Italian craft, Swiss heart Ducati x Locman Extending its design DNA from road to wrist, Ducati joined hands with Locman Italy in 2017. Their watches mirror the lines and materials of Ducati superbikes tonneau cases, titanium components, and designs from the Centro Stile Ducati studio. Bipul Chandra, managing director, Ducati India, calls it a fusion of Italian artistry and technical innovation. Priced between 88,000 and 1.14 lakh (approx), the collection is available at Ducati dealerships across India. Power & precision Lamborghini x Roger Dubuis Lamborghinis partnership with Roger Dubuis, launched in 2017, channels the brands raging, adrenaline-charged energy into avant-garde horology. In India, models such as the Excalibur Spider Huracan Pink Gold (about 77 lakh) and Excalibur Spider Huracan Titanium (about 53 lakh) reinterpret the power of Lamborghini engines through openworked dials and complex tourbillons. The Excalibur Spider Monobalancier Huracan (around 64 lakh; pictured) features skeleton dials, while the Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph in Verde Mantis pays tribute to Squadra Corse, Lamborghinis motorsport division. According to the Health Dynamics of India report by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, community health centres (CHCs) in rural India face an almost 80 per cent shortfall in specialists. As of March 2023, just 4,413 specialist doctors were available against a requirement of 21,964 across 5,491 CHCs in 757 districts, each centre serving an average population of nearly 160,000 per centre. Yet, despite this gap, PG seats for MD and Diplomate of National Board (DNB) courses are going unfilled. The demand for specialists is real, but secure, well-paid and desirable jobs are unevenly distributed, said Meera (name changed), a 31-year-old NEET-PG (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Postgraduate) aspirant from Bengaluru. Uncertainty around employment, she said, makes many young doctors question whether the financial and professional risk is worth it. Increasingly, some are choosing alternative careers that allow them to remain connected to healthcare while avoiding clinical exhaustion, while others prepare for international exams or leave clinical medicine altogether, said Ravi Malik,director at Malik Radix Healthcare. This hesitation persists even as India rapidly expands PG capacity. The number of PG medical seats rose 157 per cent to 80,291 in 2025 from 31,185 in 2014, with the government planning to add another 2,000-3,000 seats by 2029. As a result, filling the seats on offer remains a challenge. After two full rounds of NEET-PG 2025, over 18,000 seats remained vacant, forcing the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) to keep slashing qualifying cut-offs. This reignited controversy, especially after candidates with zero percentile scores became eligible for counselling in further rounds. Counselling is the centralised, online process for allocating MD, MS and diploma seats in government medical colleges, managed primarily by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC). Zero percentile means candidates who scored the lowest in a test, or that none of the other candidates scored less. Such relaxations have become routine. Cut-offs were reduced to zero percentile in 2023, 2024 and, earlier, throughout the Covid years. Experts say this addresses symptoms, not causes. Lowering cut-offs may fill seats temporarily, but it does not resolve the uncertainty that deters candidates, said Varun Singh, founder and managing partner at Foresight Law Offices India. Since all applicants already hold an MBBS degree, and have enough competency, he argued, a purely rank-based counselling system would be more rational than repeated eligibility tweaks. High costs, low returns Vacancies are most pronounced in private and deemed universities, which account for nearly 10,000 unfilled seats annually. High fees, ranging from 20 lakh to over 1 crore per year, low or irregular stipends, and weaker perceived training value deter candidates, said Deepak Sharma, cofounder and CEO of MedLern. He added that poor fee regulation in private colleges also acts as a hurdle, making higher learning a high-risk financial bet, particularly for first-generation doctors. Branch preferences add to the imbalance. Preferences are strongly shaped by income potential and work-life balance and working condition considerations, with specialities such as cardiology, radiology, gynaecology, orthopaedics, and general surgery traditionally being the most sought after. On the other hand, seats in non-clinical subjects such as pathology, anatomy and biochemistry have vacancy rates of 50-70 per cent, as many candidates prefer to drop a year rather than opt for these disciplines. However, doctors say even traditionally sought-after clinical specialities are now seeing gaps. These are physically, emotionally and legally high-risk specialties and involve long working hours, high-stakes decision-making, night duties and constant responsibility for life-and-death outcomes. The protection and rewards attached to this risk remain inadequate, said Malik of Malik Radix Healthcare. Mandatory service bonds further discourage uptake. Several states impose compulsory service with penalties ranging from 30 lakh to over 50 lakh for non-compliance, with terms varying widely across states. A Delhi-based gynaecologist told Business Standard that divergent bond conditions across states, uneven training quality and regional imbalances in seat distribution continue to influence candidates choices more than eligibility thresholds.There is an urgent need for a uniform national bond framework with reasonable caps, she said, noting that the Supreme Court had flagged the issue as early as 2019. Out of sync? The Economic Survey 2024 highlighted that nearly half of Indias PG seats are concentrated in southern states, alongside a stark urban-rural doctor density gap of 3.8:1. While private and even large government hospitals in cities approach saturation point, rural and small-town facilities struggle to attract specialists due to poor infrastructure, pay and working conditions. The postings feel punitive rather than purposeful, a gynaecologist said. Doctors also point to declining professional dignity, workplace violence and medico-legal vulnerability as deterrents. In India, doctors frequently face verbal abuse, threats during emergencies, unrealistic expectations of instant cures, and blame for systemic failures such as shortages of beds, medicines or staff, Malik said. A doctor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, said the fear of violence, legal exposure and weak institutional backing make these branches increasingly unattractive to a generation seeking both professional fulfilment and personal safety. When young doctors see limited protection, unpredictable careers and an absence of institutional support, they hesitate, he said.Sanjeev Singh of Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi added that vacancies also need to be seen in light of how quickly the medical education system has grown in the last several years. He added that the issue is not just poor seat utilisation, but also undergraduate (UG) output and PG expansion not happening at the same time. India generates over 123,000 MBBS graduates per year. At the same time, the number of PG seats has grown to around 78,000-80,000 in a short amount of time. One can only go for PG once they finish their MBBS and internship, which means a waiting period of five to six years. So, it will take time for the UG pipeline to fill the new PG seats that have been added, he said. Doctors warn that unless PG training is aligned with affordability, job security, safety and health system needs, repeated cut-off relaxations risk becoming an administrative reflex. By Christina Kyriasoglou Amazon.com Inc.s cloud service AWS is deepening its ties with Franco-Italian chipmaker STMicroelectronics NV to secure semiconductor technologies for its data centres. STMicro will supply various semiconductors to AWS, including chips to support high-bandwidth connectivity and for energy-efficient power management required for hyperscale data centre operations, STMicro said in a statement on Monday. Under the agreement, AWS received warrants to acquire as many as 24.8 million ordinary STMicro shares. The warrants will vest in tranches over time, tied to payments for STMicros products. AWS can chose to exercise the warrants in one or more transactions over a seven-year period at an initial exercise price of $28.38. For AWS, it is at least its second investment in a chip company. STMicro shares rose 6.5 per cent at market open to $26.51. The global build-out of data centres to support artificial intelligence technologies is driving new business for semiconductor companies. Designers and manufacturers of advanced AI chips including Nvidia Corp., Advanced Micro Devices Inc. and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. have been at the forefront of the boom. Makers of more mature analog chips have also seen rising demand for applications in AI data centres, including power management, sensors and cooling. German Infineon Technologies AG predicted 2.5 billion euros ($3 billion) in AI-related revenue in its 2027 fiscal year, it said last week a tenfold increase in AI sales within three years. STMicro, which is also a supplier for Tesla Inc. and Apple Inc., forecast first-quarter revenue two weeks ago that beat analysts estimates. Demand from consumer electronics customers showed signs of recovery at the end of last year after a prolonged demand slump. However, the companys shares fell after the chipmakers report showed uneven recovery across different end markets. STMicro Chief Executive Officer Jean-Marc Chery said the automotive market is not yet stable in a call with analysts. By Parmy Olson The past week of volatility showed how fickle and conformist financial markets are: One minute were in an artificial-intelligence bubble thats about to burst, the next were witnessing AI disruption across multiple industries. The latter belief underpinned the latest $1 trillion rout, triggered by new legal and financial tools from AI firm Anthropic PBC. At least, thats what the herd decided. Anthropics open-source legal plugin for Claude Cowork isnt as effective as tools from legal AI specialists such as Harvey and Legora. Yet many investors saw it as an opportunity to rush to the exits on positions they were already nervous about. The irony is that whizzy financial AI tools like Anthropics could make that mob mentality worse. Anthropic said its new Claude Opus 4.6, unveiled on Thursday, can analyze company data, regulatory filings and market information and then generate detailed assessments that would typically take a person days to complete. Thats all well and good, but consider what would happen if a tool like Claude became as popular among analysts and investors as ChatGPT, which is now used weekly by 10 per cent of the global population. Such an ascendancy is plausible. Cloud computing is dominated by Amazon Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Alphabet Inc.s Google, and the use of AI models is already confined to a small number of players: OpenAIs ChatGPT and Googles Gemini, with Anthropics Claude coming up swiftly from behind. Now imagine what happens when equity analysts already well known for their corporate obsequiousness and pack mentality are all listening to the same quarterly earnings report, and using the same one or two AI models to transcribe, analyze and suggest advice based on that call. If market participants are all drawing from the same models trained on largely the same historic data, its probable theyll not only miss the black swan events that have never happened before, but reach similar conclusions and investment strategies. It should make good analysts more productive, but its not going to replace the 50 analysts all vying to congratulate management, interpret the call, or end the conflict of interest that skew their ratings to nearly all buys, says Richard Kramer, founder and managing director of London-based Arete Research Services LLP. This is what Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr meant last year when he warned that the ubiquitous use of generative AI tools by investors could lead to herding behavior and the concentration of risk, potentially amplifying market volatility. Anthropic says its new models so-called context window has expanded to 1 million tokens from 200,000, meaning it can digest thousands of pages of financial documents in one pass, which is genuinely impressive. But it could also accelerate the concentration problem. Claude, just like ChatGPT, is still a probabilistic text generator designed to predict the most likely next word, not the most original one. This means its outputs tend to echo whats already familiar. So when one model becomes the obvious choice for complex financial research, an increasing number of firms will find their strategies resembling each other even more. Were already seeing a similar phenomenon with content on the Internet, in the form of a linguistic and cultural flattening. When Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web in 1989, he envisioned an anarchic jumble of wild ideas. Thats precisely what first emerged: gloriously weird pockets of content that were all discoverable, from a teenagers Buffy fan page on GeoCities to Usenet groups debating Tolkien linguistics, hamster care or stock picks. But the rise of large online platforms and search engine optimization wrung out much of that initial creativity; generative AI tools look set to homogenize it further as more people use ChatGPT to write their LinkedIn posts, blogs, marketing material and more. A 2024 study in Science Advances found that while stories co-authored with GPT-4 were more polished, they bore "uncanny resemblances to one another, lacking the unpredictable edge that human-only stories often contain. That should come as no surprise when models are picking the most statistically familiar token. Qualcomm has completed the tape-out of a 2nm chip design, marking a new milestone for advanced semiconductor work being carried out from India. The company said the design work was done across its engineering centres in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad, underlining the growing role of India in global chip development at a time when the government is pushing to expand the countrys semiconductor ecosystem under the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0. The announcement comes as India is trying to build deeper capabilities in chip design, packaging, testing and, eventually, manufacturing. While the 2nm chip will not be manufactured in India, the tape-out signals that Indian engineering teams are now involved in some of the most advanced stages of chip design work. What Qualcomm announced and what tape-out means In semiconductor development, tape-out refers to the stage at which a chips design is finalised and sent to a foundry for manufacturing. It marks the end of the design phase and the point at which the layout data is prepared for fabrication. After tape-out, the chip moves into production, followed by testing and validation before it can be used in products. Qualcomm said it has successfully taped out a 2nm chip design, which places the work at the cutting edge of current semiconductor technology. The 2nm label refers to an advanced manufacturing node, used as a shorthand for higher transistor density, improved power efficiency and better performance compared to older nodes. Chips at this level are also significantly more complex and expensive to design, requiring advanced tools, large engineering teams and long development cycles. It is important to note that a tape-out is a design milestone, not the start of manufacturing in India. The actual fabrication of such advanced chips is still handled by a small number of global foundries. The significance, in this case, lies in the fact that the design work is being carried out from India. In a statement, Union minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw said India is increasingly becoming a centre for advanced semiconductor design work. He said, Seeing Qualcomms work here, its engineering strength, deep design capabilities, and long-standing commitment to India, is truly impressive. Milestones like this demonstrate how far Indias design ecosystem has come and align strongly with our vision of building a globally competitive semiconductor industry. Qualcomm, for its part, said the tape-out reflects the role its engineering teams in India play across design, validation and system-level development as part of its global chip programmes. Qualcomms R&D centres in India are contributing across multiple layers of system design, from architecture to implementation, software platforms, and use-case optimisation, said Shashi Reddy, Senior Vice President, Engineering, Qualcomm India Private Limited. How this fits into Indias semiconductor push The announcement also comes against the backdrop of the governments semiconductor programme, which has been expanded under India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 in the Union Budget 202627. Under ISM 1.0, approved in 2021, the government put in place an incentive framework of Rs 76,000 crore to support silicon fabs, compound semiconductor units, assembly and testing facilities, and chip design companies. As of December 2025, the government has approved 10 projects across six states with a total investment of about Rs 1.60 lakh crore. These include a Micron assembly and test facility in Gujarat, Tata Electronics fabrication and packaging projects in Gujarat and Assam, a joint venture involving CG Power, Renesas and STARS Microelectronics, as well as projects from companies such as Kaynes Technology, SiCSem and others focused on packaging, testing and specialised manufacturing. Alongside manufacturing and packaging, the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has focused on strengthening Indias chip design base. According to government data, the programme supports two dozen design startups, has enabled multiple tape-outs from both startups and academic institutions, and has facilitated access to advanced design tools through a national EDA platform. ISM 2.0 builds on this by shifting more focus towards equipment, materials, full-stack design capabilities and a longer-term roadmap that includes advanced nodes such as 3nm and 2nm. For 202627, the modified semiconductor programme has an outlay of Rs 8,000 crore, with targets spanning new fab investments, packaging and testing units, and additional support for design companies. As part of it, India also plans to achieve the capability to design and manufacture chips required for nearly 7075 per cent of domestic applications by 2029. Why this matters for India Semiconductors are now central to sectors ranging from consumer electronics and telecom to automobiles, industrial systems and defence. Recent global supply disruptions have highlighted how dependent economies are on a small number of electronics component producing regions. For India, the stated goal has been to reduce reliance on imports over time and build a more resilient domestic ecosystem across design, manufacturing and packaging. In the near term, design remains Indias strongest link in the semiconductor value chain. Large global chip companies already run substantial engineering operations in the country, and Indian teams are involved in architecture, verification, software and system-level work for products that are eventually manufactured elsewhere. A 2nm tape-out adds to that picture by showing that work from India is not limited to mature nodes, but also extends to advanced designs that sit at the top end of the industrys technology roadmap. Interest from other chipmakers Qualcomm is not the only company looking at India more closely as part of its semiconductor strategy. According to a report by The Times of India, Taiwanese chipmaker MediaTek has said it is open to getting chips manufactured in India, as the country builds out its semiconductor infrastructure and offers incentives under the governments programme. While large-scale manufacturing at advanced nodes remains a longer-term objective, such statements point to growing interest from global chip companies in engaging with India not just as a design base, but also as a potential part of the manufacturing and supply chain ecosystem over time. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Monday said one of her closest allies was kidnapped hours after being released from prison. The government had released several prominent opposition members from prison on Sunday after lengthy politically motivated detentions. Machado said on social media that Juan Pablo Guanipa was taken around midnight in a residential neighbourhood of the capital, Caracas. "Heavily armed men, dressed in civilian clothes, arrived in four vehicles and violently took him away," she posted on X. "We demand his immediate release." The releases of the opposition figures came as the government of acting President Delcy Rodriguez has faced mounting pressure to free hundreds of people whose detentions months or years ago have been linked to their political activities. The releases also followed a visit to Venezuela of representatives of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. The government's press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment early Monday. Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's acting president after the Jan. 3 capture of then-President Nicolas Maduro by the US military. Her government began releasing prisoners days later. Some of those freed Sunday joined families waiting outside prisons for their loved ones to be released. They chanted "We are not afraid! We are not afraid!" and marched a short distance. "I am convinced that our country has completely changed," Guanipa, a former governor, had told reporters hours after his release. "I am convinced that it is now up to all of us to focus on building a free and democratic country." Guanipa had spent more than eight months in custody. Iranian security forces have launched a campaign to arrest figures within the country's reformist movement, reports said on Monday. That widens a crackdown on dissent after authorities earlier put down nationwide protests in violence that killed thousands and saw tens of thousands more detained. Detained Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has received another prison sentence of over seven years. It signals a widening effort to silence anyone opposed to the bloody suppression of unrest by Iran's theocracy as it faces new nuclear talks with the United States. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned he could launch an attack on the country if no deal is reached. Media reports quoted officials within the reformist movement, which seeks to change Iran's theocracy from inside, as saying at least four of their members had been arrested. They include Azar Mansouri, the head of the Reformist Front, which represents multiple reformist factions, and former diplomat Mohsen Aminzadeh, who served under reformist President Mohammad Khatami. Also detained was Ebrahim Asgharzadeh, who led students who stormed the US Embassy in Tehran in 1979, sparking the 444-day hostage crisis. Their arrests likely stem from a reformist statement in January that called for Iran's 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to resign from his position and have a transitional governing council oversee the country. Iran's state-run IRNA news agency quoted a statement from prosecutors in Tehran, the country's capital, saying four people had been arrested and others summoned to meet authorities. It accused those allegedly involved of "organising and leading ... activities aimed at disrupting the political and social situation in the country amid military threats from the United States and the Zionist regime." "Having bludgeoned the streets into silence with exemplary cruelty, the regime has shifted its attention inward, fixing its stare on its loyal opposition," wrote Ali Vaez, an Iran expert at the International Crisis Group. "The reformists, sensing the ground move beneath them, had begun to drift - and power, ever paranoid, is now determined to cauterise dissent before it learns to walk." However, it remains unclear just how much political support reformists have within Iran. The anger on the streets of Iran during the demonstrations, heard in people shouting "Death to Khamenei!" and in support of the country's exiled crown prince, appeared to lump reformists in with all other politicians now working in the Islamic Republic. Iran and the US held new nuclear talks last week in Oman. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, speaking Sunday to diplomats at a summit in Tehran, signalled that Iran would stick to its position that it must be able to enrich uranium - a major point of contention with Trump, who bombed Iranian atomic sites in June during the 12-day Iran-Israel war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to travel to Washington this week, with Iran expected to be the major subject of discussion, his office said. The US has moved the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, ships and warplanes to the Middle East to pressure Iran into an agreement and have the firepower necessary to strike the Islamic Republic should Trump choose to do so. Meanwhile, Iran issued a warning to pilots that it planned "rocket launches" from Monday into Tuesday in an area over the country's Semnan province, home to the Imam Khomeini Spaceport. Such launches have corresponded in the past with Iran marking the anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution. By Stephen Wicary Cuba is at risk of losing vital airline service as it prepares to run out of aviation fuel, while an allied nation cut off an important escape valve for migrants amid increasing pressure from the US aimed at toppling the regime in Havana. The communist government warned international airlines they can no longer refuel at its main airport in Havana for the next month after Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any nation that supplies Cuba with oil. A-1 jet fuel wont be available at Jose Marti International Airport between Tuesday and March 11, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a notice Sunday. Nicaragua, meanwhile, altered its immigration rules to block Cuban citizens from entering the Central American country without a visa. Nearly one in five Cuban residents has fled the island over the past decade amid a worsening economic crisis. Cuba is served by US, Canadian, European and Latin American airlines. In previous times of economic distress, including after the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, airlines rearranged schedules to allow for refueling in Mexico or the Dominican Republic. In addition to tourists that provide a critical source of hard currency for Cubas government, travelers often bring much needed supplies to the cash-strapped island. Food, medication and consumer goods are often imported via so-called mules who load up their luggage to bring in on commercial flights. Washington effectively cut off fuel shipments to Cuba from its top ally Venezuela in early January, when it whisked socialist leader Nicolas Maduro away to face trial in New York on narco-terrorism charges. The government in Havana said last week its open to talks with the US but insists its one-party system of government isnt up for negotiation. It unveiled contingency measures to deal with the crisis Friday night that included reducing public transportation routes, shortening the work week to Monday through Thursday and moving some university classes online. It has also begun shutting down resorts in its crucial tourism industry, opting to consolidate visitors in a smaller number of hotels in hopes of capturing as much external revenue as possible during the high season. The state also intends to accelerate plans to transition to more use of solar power. Cubas national grid suffered a half-dozen complete collapses in the span of a year as conditions on the island worsened. Mexico on Sunday dispatched two navy ships loaded with more than 800 tons of humanitarian aid for the island, including food and personal hygiene products. A Hong Kong court sentenced pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison, the harshest punishment so far under the Beijing-imposed national security law. Lai has become one of the most prominent faces of the laws sweeping crackdown on dissent, Bloomberg reported. A panel of three judges, chosen by the government, ordered the 78-year-old to serve the sentence after convicting him of conspiring to collude with foreign forces. The court also upheld a separate sedition conviction. What charges was Jimmy Lai convicted of? Lai, the founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was convicted in December after a lengthy trial that began in 2023 and lasted more than 150 days. Judges described him as the key figure behind efforts to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China, with the aim of seeking the downfall of the ruling Communist Party. Lai has denied all allegations. His lawyers had asked the court to show leniency, pointing to his age and worsening health. Lai has been in custody for nearly five years, much of it in solitary confinement, since his arrest in 2020. His detention followed the introduction of the National Security Law after mass pro-democracy protests rocked Hong Kong. Lais life story is closely tied to Hong Kongs rise. He arrived in the city as a 12-year-old from mainland China and later built a successful business in textiles. In 1995, he founded Apple Daily, which became a vocal supporter of the pro-democracy movement and a sharp critic of Beijing. ALSO READ: National security trial opens for Hong Kong's Tiananmen vigil organisers The newspaper regularly backed protests calling for greater public participation in elections. Pressure from the US, UK US President Donald Trump had earlier appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping for Lais release. Trump is expected to visit Beijing in April. US ambassador to China, David Perdue, described the issue as an ongoing conversation between the two leaders in an interview with Bloomberg Television last month. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also raised Lais case during his high-profile visit to Beijing in January. While seeking to reset relations with China, Starmer said he had a respectful discussion about Lais imprisonment, Bloomberg reported. Several other countries have condemned Lais prosecution, calling it politically driven. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Beijing last month in a bid to repair ties and announced a new strategic partnership with China, while also urging Lais release. Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have repeatedly rejected foreign criticism. They insist the case was handled according to the law and say Lai received a fair trial, warning against outside interference. Sentence eclipses earlier convictions The punishment goes beyond the 10-year sentence earlier handed to activist Benny Tai. It has also revived comparisons between Lai and the late Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo, who was jailed for 11 years on charges of subversion for calling for democratic reforms in China. Liu later died of cancer in a Chinese hospital in 2017, shortly after being released on medical parole. The White House has hailed a new trade agreement with India, saying the country has committed to "no longer" purchasing Russian oil, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi also agreeing on investments of $500 billion across key American sectors. These remarks were made by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Tuesday. "The President struck another great trade deal with India. He spoke with Prime Minister Modi directly. They share a very good relationship. India is committed to not only no longer purchasing Russian oil, but buying oil from the United States, also perhaps from Venezuela too, which we know will now have a direct benefit on the United States and the American people," Leavitt told reporters Tuesday. She further said that in addition to that, Prime Minister Modi "committed to $500 billion of investments into the United States, including for transportation, for energy and for agricultural products as well. So this is another great trade deal thanks to President Trump." Earlier, speaking to Fox News about the India-US trade deal, Leavitt said the two leaders had a "great call" on Monday, following which the bilateral trade deal was announced. "...when it comes to Prime Minister Modi, I know he (Trump) particularly enjoys their relationship and has a deep respect for the Prime Minister and for his country of India. "They had a great call. It was very productive yesterday, and they struck a deal in which India has agreed to stop purchasing Russian oil to buy more American oil from the United States of America, and potentially from Venezuela too," she said. Leavitt added that Trump and his national security team are "now dictating" the commerce of Venezuela and those oil sales. "So this directly benefits the American people as well. And in addition, India has agreed to invest more in the United States because of President Trump's call to action on that phone call yesterday. Prime Minister Modi committed to $500 billion of purchases of US energy, transportation, and agricultural products," she said. Leavitt said the US tariff on India will now be at 18 per cent, but American exports to India will face a tariff of 0 per cent, so this is a great deal and a huge win for American workers, businesses and consumers alike." The Trump administration had imposed 50 per cent tariffs on India, including 25 per cent for Delhi's purchases of Russian oil. In a Truth Social post on Monday, Trump had said that, effective immediately, the two sides agreed to a trade deal under which the US will lower its reciprocal tariff imposed on India from 25 per cent to 18 per cent. India will also move forward to reduce its tariffs and non-tariff barriers against the United States to "zero". "The Prime Minister also committed to 'BUY AMERICAN', at a much higher level, in addition to over $500 BILLION DOLLARS of US Energy, Technology, Agricultural, Coal, and many other products. "Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people who GET THINGS DONE, something that cannot be said for most," Trump said. Modi said it was wonderful to speak with his "dear friend" Trump. "Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement," Modi said. "When two large economies and the world's largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. President Trump's leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights," Modi said. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's gamble that her personal popularity would lead to big election gains for her struggling party paid off hugely. On Monday, she began the process of translating that new power, made manifest in a two-thirds supermajority gained in parliamentary elections the day before, into what she hopes will be sweeping conservative legislation that will shift Japanese security, immigration, economic and social policies. The first steps include reappointing her Cabinet and pushing forward on a delayed budget, and the votes next week that will re-elect her as prime minister. Takaichi, in an interview with public television network NHK following her victory, said her efforts will make Japan strong and prosperous. NHK, citing vote count results, said Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party, or LDP, alone secured 316 seats by early Monday, comfortably surpassing a 261-seat absolute majority in the 465-member lower house, the more powerful of Japan's two-chamber parliament. That is a record since the party's foundation in 1955. With the 36 seats won by its new ally, Japan Innovation Party, the ruling coalition won 352 seats. A smiling Takaichi placed a big red ribbon above each winner's name on a signboard at LDP headquarters as accompanying party executives applauded. Despite the lack of a majority in the upper house, the huge jump from the pre-election share in the more powerful lower house allows Takaichi to make progress on policies that aim to boost Japan's economy and military capabilities as tensions grow with China, and she tries to nurture ties with the United States. Takaichi said she would try to gain support from the opposition while firmly pushing forward with her policy goals. "I will be flexible," she said. Takaichi is popular, but the LDP, which has ruled Japan for most of the last seven decades, has been hit with funding and religious scandals in recent years. She called Sunday's early election after only three months in office, hoping to turn that around while her popularity is high. Popular leader Takaichi, who took office as Japan's first female leader in October, pledged to "work, work, work," and her style, which is seen as both playful and tough, has resonated with younger fans who say they weren't previously interested in politics. The opposition, despite the formation of a new centrist alliance and a rising far-right, was too splintered to be a real challenger. The new opposition alliance of LDP's former coalition partner, Buddhist-backed dovish Komeito, and the liberal-leaning Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, is projected to sink to half of their combined pre-election share of 167 seats. Takaichi was betting with this election that her LDP party, together with its new partner, the JIP, would secure a majority. US President Donald Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform Sunday, congratulated Takaichi on a LANDSLIDE Victory in today's very important Vote. She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanae's bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time." Akihito Iwatake, a 53-year-old office worker, said he welcomed the big LDP win because he felt the party had become too liberal in recent years. "With Takaichi shifting things more toward the conservative side, I think that brought this positive result," he said. Takaichi's policies Japan has recently seen far-right populists gain ground, such as the anti-globalist and surging nationalist party Sanseito. Exit polls projected a big gain for Sanseito. The first major task for Takaichi when the lower house reconvenes in mid-February is to work on a budget bill, delayed by the election, to fund economic measures that address rising costs and sluggish wages. Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defence policies by December to bolster Japan's offensive military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from the country's postwar pacifist principles. She has been pushing for tougher policies on foreigners, anti-espionage and other measures that resonate with a far-right audience, but ones that experts say could undermine civil rights. Takaichi also wants to increase defence spending in response to Trump's pressure for Japan to spend more. She now has time to work on these policies, without an election until 2028. Divisive policies Though Takaichi said she's seeking to win support for policies seen as divisive in Japan, she largely avoided discussing ways to fund soaring military spending, how to fix diplomatic tension with China and other issues. Despite her rightward shift, Takaichi is expected to maintain good relations with South Korea, given shared concern about threats from North Korea and China. But Seoul would still worry about a Japanese attempt to revise the country's pacifist constitution or to further build up its military because of Japan's wartime past, said Leif-Eric Easley, professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. In her campaign speeches, Takaichi enthusiastically talked about the need for government spending to fund "crisis management investment and growth," such as measures to strengthen economic security, technology and other industries. Takaichi also seeks to push tougher measures on immigration, including stricter requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on foreign residents. Sunday's election "underscores a problematic trend in Japanese politics in which political survival takes priority over substantive policy outcomes," said Masato Kamikubo, a Ritsumeikan University politics professor. "Whenever the government attempts necessary but unpopular reforms ... the next election looms. Jimmy Lai, a media mogul and pro-democracy figure in Hong Kong, was sentenced to 20 years in prison, making it the toughest punishment so far under China's national security law. Lai was arrested under this law in 2020. The 78-year-old was found guilty of colluding with foreign forces and also upheld a separate sedition case. Lai has denied all charges. Here's a look at who Jimmy Lai is and why this sentence assumes significance. Who is Jimmy Lai? Jimmy Lai is the founder of Apple Daily, a now-closed newspaper that strongly supported democracy and openly criticised the Chinese government. Over the years, he became a major symbol of press freedom in Hong Kong. Lai was born in China in 1947. At the age of 12, he came to Hong Kong illegally on a fishing boat. He began working as a child in a garment factory. Over time, he rose to become a manager and later built a successful clothing business. He made his first fortune through the Giordano clothing brand. After the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown in China, Lai moved to media. He launched Next magazine and later Apple Daily in 1995. The paper became very popular but also controversial for its strong political stand. Many advertisers avoided it, and Lai said this was due to political pressure. Apple Dailys offices and his home were attacked several times. Why is he seen as controversial? According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, Lai openly supported pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. He also met senior US leaders during visits abroad, including US politicians in 2019, during large street protests in Hong Kong. These actions angered Beijing. Chinese authorities and the Hong Kong government say Lai used his media influence to ask foreign countries to put pressure on China and Hong Kong, including through sanctions. Lai says he only stood up for democracy and free speech. What are the allegations against him? Lai has been accused of sedition, linked to articles and opinions published by Apple Daily, fraud related to an alleged office lease violation, and taking part in unauthorised assemblies and protests. Timeline of cases against Jimmy Lai August 2020: Arrested at home for colluding with foreign forces and fraud Arrested at home for colluding with foreign forces and fraud December 2020: Bail granted and revoked multiple times; charged under the national security law Bail granted and revoked multiple times; charged under the national security law AprilMay 2021: Sentenced to jail for joining and organising 2019 protests Sentenced to jail for joining and organising 2019 protests December 2021: Convicted and sentenced for taking part in a Tiananmen Square vigil Convicted and sentenced for taking part in a Tiananmen Square vigil October 2022: Jailed for nearly six years in a fraud case linked to a lease issue Jailed for nearly six years in a fraud case linked to a lease issue August 2023: Appeal court overturned one protest conviction but upheld another Appeal court overturned one protest conviction but upheld another December 2025: Convicted in the main national security case after a long trial Convicted in the main national security case after a long trial February 2026: Sentenced to 20 years in prison Why his case matters Jimmy Lais case is seen by many as a turning point for press freedom and dissent in Hong Kong. Supporters say he is being punished for his political views. Authorities say the law is needed to protect national security. Whatever the view, Lai remains one of the most high-profile figures targeted under Hong Kongs national security law. Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on Monday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations. Modi told Ramgoolam that he looked forward to welcoming him to India next week for the AI Impact Summit. "Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year," Modi said in a post on X. Modi said he and Ramgoolam reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite the two nations. "India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region," Modi said. On February 6, the Indian Coast Guard said it intercepted three vessels about 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai in a coordinated sea-air operation, busting an international oil-smuggling racket operating in international waters. Officials said the syndicate used mid-sea transfers to move cheap oil from conflict-ridden regions onto motor tankers, thus evading duties owed to coastal states. The ships are being escorted to Mumbai for legal action. The case has brought to light how illegal and sanctioned oil continues to move across global seas via a shadow system of tankers, false flags and mid-ocean transfers that has expanded sharply in recent years as sanctions enforcement on nations such as Russia and Iran has tightened. How is illegal or sanctioned oil moved across the seas? While oil under international sanctions cannot move openly through global markets, it travels through a parallel maritime system built to hide its origin, ownership and destination. This system relies on ageing oil tankers, complex ownership structures, false identities and mid-sea transfers that allow cargoes to change hands away from port checks or customs authorities. What does it mean when oil is sanctioned? Sanctioned oil refers to crude or refined petroleum products whose sale or transport is restricted by governments or international blocs, usually as a tool of foreign policy. The United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions on oil exports from countries such as Iran, Venezuela and Russia, aiming to cut off revenue streams linked to war, terrorism or human rights abuses. ALSO READ | Russia's secret oil ships: How shadow tankers evade the West's watch When oil is sanctioned, vessels carrying it are denied port entry, insurance coverage and access to international banking systems. In some cases, ships themselves are designated for sanctions, making any interaction with them illegal for compliant firms. As a result, operators turn to a shadow economy to bypass these restrictions. How do shadow tankers move sanctioned oil? To evade sanctions, operators rely on what shipping analysts call the shadow fleet or ghost fleet. These tankers deliberately operate outside normal maritime transparency. Such vessels often change their names, flags and registered owners frequently, sometimes flying false flags or broadcasting fake identities. They may switch off their automatic identification system (AIS) transponders, a practice known as going dark, or spoof their locations to appear thousands of miles away from where they actually are. Another common tactic is ship-to-ship transfers in international waters. Oil is moved from one tanker to another at sea, allowing the cargo to be mixed, relabelled or routed through multiple vessels before reaching a buyer. By the time it enters a port, its origin is difficult to prove. Because many shadow tankers lack credible insurance, they are often barred from mainstream ports, reinforcing their dependence on offshore transfers and informal logistics chains. How large is the shadow tanker fleet? There is no precise count, largely because the system is designed to evade measurement by operating in the shadows. However, shipping and energy experts cited by The New York Times estimate that shadow tankers may account for as much as 20 per cent of the global oil tanker fleet. This number has grown sharply since 2022, after sanctions were expanded following Russias invasion of Ukraine. According to an S&P Global report, the fleet grew by about 45 per cent between May 2024 and May 2025. The report added that Panama is currently the single largest flag state for the shadow fleet, accounting for 22 per cent of its vessels. What has the United States done in the Caribbean? In December last year, US authorities seized two oil tankers in the Caribbean accused of transporting sanctioned crude. One of them, later identified as the Marinera, had previously operated under the name Bella 1, reported The New York Times. US officials said the vessel had a history of carrying Iranian oil allegedly sold to finance terrorism. During pursuit, the ship repeatedly changed its identity, went dark and even painted a Russian flag on its hull in an apparent attempt to deter seizure. Despite this, US forces reportedly intercepted the tanker in waters between Iceland and Scotland. The second tanker, the M Sophia, was described by the US military as a stateless, sanctioned dark fleet vessel engaged in illicit activity. According to shipping data firms Kpler and TankerTrackers.com, as cited by The New York Times, it was carrying between 1.8 and two million barrels of Venezuelan crude. The ship had previously spoofed its location signals to disguise movements near Venezuela and had transported oil linked to Venezuela, Iran and Russia. Why are some shadow tankers now flying Russian flags? A notable shift in recent months has been the decision by several shadow tankers to register under the Russian flag, which maritime analysts see as a form of deterrence rather than an effort to gain legitimacy. According to S&P Global, dozens of tankers switched to Russian registration since mid-2024. This followed an earlier incident in which Russian military aircraft intervened when Estonian authorities attempted to stop a tanker in the Baltic Sea, signalling that Moscow may be willing to protect vessels flying under its banner near its waters. Why does this matter beyond oil markets? Industry analysts say shadow tanker operations pose risks beyond sanctions evasion. Poorly maintained vessels operating without insurance raise the risk of environmental disasters. The practice also blurs legal norms at sea, creating uncertainty about enforcement, particularly when state power is used to shield illicit shipping. As countries tighten oversight, the shadow fleet is adapting by changing flags, routes and tactics. What is emerging is a contested maritime space where energy, security and geopolitics increasingly collide. By Alex Morales Keir Starmers Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney quit his post on Sunday, becoming the casualty of a furor over the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UKs ambassador to Washington that now threatens the prime ministers own position. The loss of his key aide is a hammer blow to Starmer, who as recently as Wednesday said he retained confidence in McSweeney and considered him an essential part of my team. With the Irishman the architect of Labours 2024 election landslide win and the prime ministers closest senior adviser, his departure leaves the prime minister exposed at a time when frustrated members of parliament are braying for change at the top. Starmers vulnerability was laid bare in the wake of McSweeneys departure, when two key Labour-linked groups suggested accountability shouldnt end with the chief of staff. Mainstream, a network of Labour politicians from the left of the party, issued a statement saying: All those involved in the disastrous appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US must be held to account. Compass, another left-wing pressure group, was blunter, saying in a statement: in time, a new captain will be needed to steer the party. Opposition parties also wasted no time in turning the focus on Starmer. The buck stops with him, said Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats Daisy Cooper in a statement, while main opposition Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch said on X that Starmer should take responsibility for his own terrible decisions. Nigel Farage, the populist leader of the poll-leading Reform UK Party, predicted that the premier wont be far behind McSweeney. As predicted McSweeney has gone. Labour are just continuing the chaos we saw under the Tories. My money says Starmer wont be far behind after Labours disaster in the elections this coming May. Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) February 8, 2026 Even before McSweeney quit, cabinet minister Pat McFadden gave a round of morning interviews on Sunday highlighting the economic risks associated with unseating the premier. McSweeneys exit and the renewed speculation over Starmers position will likely be the focus of gilt traders on Monday morning. Investors have in the past reacted negatively to the prospects of Starmer or Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves leaving their posts, out of concern they could be replaced by colleagues less committed to fiscal rigor. Its not good for the country to change his prime minister every 18 months or two years, he told Sky News. Its leading to chaos and uncertainty economically, politically and reputationally around the world. Its a sign of the turmoil besetting Labour that McSweeney is Starmers second chief of staff to leave in just 19 months, having initially been appointed to a different position in the administration following the 2024 election victory he masterminded. A person familiar with the matter said Jill Cuthbertson and Vidhya Alakeson will replace McSweeney as joint chiefs of staff immediately, having previously served as his deputies. His departure leaves the prime minister with his inner circle much diminished at a time when dismal poll ratings have members of the party casting around for a successor, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting and former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner touted as contenders. The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong: he has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself, McSweeney said on Sunday in a statement. I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. The latest ructions within Labour were sparked by revelations over the past 10 days that Mandelson appeared to have leaked sensitive government information to the convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a minister in the last Labour administration under then premier Gordon Brown. Starmer said in a statement of McSweeney: He turned our party around after one of its worst ever defeats and played a central role running our election campaign, adding it is largely thanks to his dedication, loyalty and leadership that we won a landslide majority and have the chance to change the country. That put fresh scrutiny on Starmers judgment in appointing someone whod twice resigned from government in controversial circumstances and was nicknamed the Prince of Darkness because of his mastery of political manipulation. On Wednesday the prime minister acknowledged hed known Mandelson maintained ties with Epstein for years after the financiers 2008 conviction in a state prostitution case involving a minor, but said hed been deceived about the nature of the relationship. Starmer sacked Mandelson as envoy in September hours after Bloomberg detailed previously unreported emails between him and Epstein that cast new light on their relationship. The US Department of Justice then released a fresh trove of emails late last month, providing further details how close Mandelson had been to the financier. On Thursday, he publicly apologized for having believed Mandelsons lies and appointed him in the first place. McSweeney was instrumental in advancing the former Labour politician for the role. The scale of alarm within Labour became apparent immediately after Starmers appearance in the Commons on Wednesday when the opposition Conservatives used an arcane Parliamentary procedure to try to force the government to publish the material involved in Mandelsons vetting. Ultimately the government backed down and agreed to take that course, although the Metropolitan Police has said there may be limits to what can be shared while it pursues a criminal inquiry into Mandelsons conduct. The government sought to insert caveats allowing it to withhold material on national security grounds, but a succession of Labour MPs including Rayner made it clear they thought that ministers should hand the ability to make that determination to Parliaments cross-party Intelligence and Security Committee. None of those papers have yet been published, and with McSweeney out Starmer is now unshielded in the event of further revelations. The prime minister will hope that his aides departure dims the clamor from his Labour Party critics. But, amid record-low personal ratings and dire polling for his party, he was already girding for imminent electoral challenges that may prove existential. The first comes in the form of a Feb. 26 special election in Gordon and Denton which ought to be a Labour stronghold. In May theres a much wider set of local elections in which Labour is expected to suffer steep losses. Starmer must now confront those challenges without the help of the man who devised Labours success in 2024 provided he is still leading his party when the tests arrive. The START treaty between Russia and the United States, which was aimed at regulating strategic offensive arms, including nuclear weapons, expired on February 5, leaving the worlds two biggest nuclear powers without any legal limits on their nuclear arsenals. With its end, there are now no binding restrictions on how many nuclear warheads each side can deploy. Heres a detailed breakdown of what the START treaty was, why it was significant and what comes next. What was the START treaty? The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, commonly known as New START, was the last major nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia. It was signed in 2010 by then US president Barack Obama and Russian president Dmitry Medvedev and came into force in February 2011. Its main aim was to reduce and limit the number of strategic nuclear weapons held by both countries. ALSO READ | The end of New START: Why the last US-Russia nuclear treaty mattered Under the treaty, each side was allowed a maximum of 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads, along with limits on missiles, bombers and other delivery systems. It also allowed both countries to carry out inspections and share data, enabling verification of compliance. Why did the treaty expire? The treaty was originally valid for 10 years and was extended once in 2021 for five more years, setting its expiry date at February 5, 2026. In the years leading up to the deadline, talks to further extend or replace the treaty failed to make progress. As a result, New START expired automatically, ending its limits and inspection mechanisms without a replacement agreement in place. What does the expiry mean? With the expiry of the New START treaty, there are no legally binding limits on the number of nuclear weapons the US and Russia can deploy. There are also no longer any on-site inspections or mandatory data sharing between the two sides. This raises the risk of misunderstanding and miscalculation at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. The US and Russia reportedly together control about 85 per cent of the worlds nuclear warheads. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the expiration represents a grave moment for international peace and security. For the first time in more than half a century, we face a world without any binding limits on the strategic nuclear arsenals of the two countries, he said. ALSO READ | How did US, Russia react? US President Donald Trump has said he wants a new and better nuclear arms agreement instead of extending New START. He has argued that any future treaty should include other nuclear-armed countries, particularly China, whose arsenal is expanding. On February 4, Russias Foreign Ministry said President Vladimir Putin had publicly proposed restarting talks on the treaty in September last year, but claimed the US did not give a clear response. Moscow described Washingtons approach as erroneous and regrettable. Chinas Foreign Ministry said the expiration was regrettable and urged the US to resume dialogue with Russia on strategic stability. It warned that the lapse could negatively affect the global nuclear arms control system and international nuclear order. US President Donald Trump on Monday announced a $12 billion plan to build a stockpile of critical minerals used in defence, technology and manufacturing. The move is aimed at reducing Americas dependence on China for rare earths and other key metals, Bloomberg reported. The initiative, called 'Project Vault', was unveiled during Trumps remarks at the White House. He said supply disruptions have repeatedly hurt American companies. For years, American businesses have risked running out of critical minerals during market disruptions, Trump said. Today, we're launching what will be known as Project Vault to ensure that American businesses and workers are never harmed by any shortage. What is Project Vault? Project Vault is a public-private partnership that will buy and store critical minerals and rare earth elements. These include gallium and cobalt, which are essential for modern technology and defence equipment. It will combine $1.67 billion in private seed funding with another $10 billion from the US governments Export-Import Bank. Cobalt is widely used in rechargeable batteries and in jet engines for military aircraft, making it strategically important. How will the stockpiling system work? Companies will make an initial commitment to buy materials later at a fixed inventory price. They will also pay some upfront fees. Based on these commitments, companies can give Project Vault a list of the materials they need. The project will then purchase and store those materials. ALSO READ: Critical minerals, nuclear push crucial to India's climate plan: Eco Survey Manufacturers will pay a carrying cost that covers loan interest and storage expenses. When can companies access the stored minerals? Companies will be allowed to use their stored materials as long as they replace what they take out. In case of a major supply disruption, firms will be able to access their entire stockpile, Bloomberg reported. A key feature of the plan is that companies must agree to repurchase the same amount of materials in the future at the same price. The administration believes this will help reduce price volatility in the market. Which companies are involved in Project Vault? More than a dozen companies have already joined the initiative. These include General Motors, Stellantis, Boeing, Corning, GE Vernova and Google. Three global commodities trading firms -- Hartree Partners, Traxys North America and Mercuria Energy Group -- will handle purchases of raw materials for the stockpile. How does this fit into US mineral policy? The US already maintains a mineral stockpile for defence needs, but not for civilian industries. In recent years, the government has also invested directly in domestic mining and processing companies to boost local production. The administration has signed cooperation agreements with countries such as Australia, Japan and Malaysia. It plans to push for more partnerships during a global summit in Washington on Wednesday (local time). How is Project Vault similar to existing US stockpiles? The project is similar to the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which stores emergency oil supplies. However, instead of crude oil, Project Vault will focus on minerals. These minerals are used in products such as smartphones, batteries, jet engines and electric vehicles. The stockpile is expected to include rare earths, critical minerals and other strategically important elements whose prices can swing sharply. Why is the US pushing this initiative now? This initiative highlights Trumps broader effort to reduce US supply chain dependence on China, which dominates the global production and processing of critical minerals. The minerals are essential for industries such as automotive, aerospace and energy. Supply risks became clearer last year when China tightened export controls on certain materials, which forced some US manufacturers to cut production. (With agency inputs) By Patpicha Tanakasempipat Thailands Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakuls pro-royalist party scored a resounding win in Sundays election over a progressive group seen as a pre-poll favorite. His conservative Bhumjaithai Party rode on a wave of nationalism tied to a simmering border clash with neighboring Cambodia and championing the status quo to emerge as the largest in the 500-member House of Representatives, according to preliminary results. Anutin is now set to head a coalition government with a comfortable majority that may end bouts of political upheaval which have rattled the Southeast Asian nation in recent years and left its economy adrift. Who is Anutin? The veteran politician also known by his nickname Nu, which means mouse is one of the countrys most durable power brokers. An engineer by training, Anutin entered politics in 1996 while still running family firm Sino-Thai Engineering & Construction, now known as Stecon Group Pcl, the countrys second-largest builder. He is the son of former acting premier Chavarat Charnvirakul and holds an engineering degree from Hofstra University in New York. A longtime leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin has spent years waiting in the wings for power. He held senior cabinet posts across several administrations, cultivating a reputation as a pragmatic operator who works comfortably with both civilian governments and military rulers. In September, he became prime minister in a deal with the Peoples Party, the countrys biggest opposition bloc, after Paetongtarn Shinawatra was ousted by the Constitutional Court for committing ethical violations in her handling of tensions with Cambodia. He called early elections after Peoples Party threatened to oust him in a vote of no confidence. Once known as the Cannabis King for spearheading Asias first decriminalization policy in 2022, the 59-year-old voted in a weed print t-shirt in 2023. This time around, he distanced himself from the issue in a bid appeal to more conservative voters amid a wider backlash over the proliferation of dispensaries. In his free time, Anutin collects Buddhist amulets, and plays the saxophone and the piano. He also volunteers as a pilot for the Heart With Wings program with the Thai Red Cross Society, using his private jet to deliver donated hearts for transplant patients. How did he rise to power? Anutins rise to the top reflects both strategy and circumstance, and is a testament to his patience and savvy coalition building. Bhumjaithai which means proud to be Thai started out in 2008 as a breakaway faction from a party linked to Thaksin Shinawatra, the telecom billionaire and political legend. Anutin has since steadily expanded his partys parliamentary base by consolidating local political families. Anutin emerged as the new champion of the conservative camp after the exit of Prayuth Chan-Ocha, a former general and coup leader, who ruled from 2014 to 2023. In Thailand, where courts and coups can topple elected governments, the backing of the royal establishment goes a long way. Most recently, Anutin has used personal clout to recruit technocrats to join his cabinet and positioned himself as a stabilizing force in an increasingly polarized landscape. A recent surge in nationalist sentiment following bouts of border violence with Cambodia has played to his message of security, sovereignty and continuity. What are his priorities? Anutin has a tough stance on defending Thai sovereignty a message that seems to resonate with voters nationwide. During his final campaign rally on Friday, Anutin said he plans to revoke Thailands 2001 agreement with Cambodia aimed at settling a disputed maritime claim in the Gulf of Thailand, which involves potential natural gas reserves. The two countries have been squabbling over it since the 1970s. He has also pledged to build walls along the Thai-Cambodian land border. His party wants to focus on pragmatic deliverables rather than sweeping reforms. Touting more of his popular co-payment handout program, Anutin underscores continuity and short-term relief to households burdened by debts and high costs of living. Bhumjaithai estimates its policy platform would require about 148 billion baht ($4.7 billion) a year, with the co-payment scheme requiring 44 billion baht. The biggest outlay would go to its low-cost energy plan aimed at reducing electricity prices through green and community-based power generation. CAMEROUN :: THE BELKA TOBIS AFFAIR : THE UNSPOKEN HISTORY :: CAMEROON The Belka Tobis affair continues to provoke strong reactions, even after the artists public statement intended to present his version of events. The video that went viral now appears to have been only the visible surface of a much older, deeper, and more painful conflict, one in which love, disappointment, money, family inheritance, and decades of accumulated wounds are tightly intertwined. In his message, Belka Tobis claims to be living in what he describes as a situation dangerous to his personal safety. According to him, the woman seen in the video, the mother of his child, allegedly took advantage of his stays abroad to sell household property and to attempt to take control of a family concession inherited from his parents. He explains that he repeatedly sought the intervention of law enforcement, changed the locks to prevent what he considers looting, and reacted physically only in what he describes as a context of self-defense. His testimony is marked by fear and anger, but also by a profound sense of being misunderstood and publicly exposed at a moment of deep vulnerability. Opposite this account, the testimony of Madame Joptchouang Marie Madeleine offers an equally weighty perspective. She recounts a meeting that took place thirty years ago, at a time when the artist was still at the very beginning of his career. There was a promise of marriage, trust freely given, and personal savings invested in the construction of a house on the family land of the man she loved. From this relationship was born a daughter, now an adult. Then came fame, distance, infidelities, other children elsewhere, and gradually the painful feeling of having become a stranger in a life she had helped to build. According to her, she never opposed separation itself, but simply seeks recognition for what she invested, both materially and emotionally. The categorical refusal of any form of restitution, justified by cultural and family arguments, transformed an already painful separation into an open confrontation. Allegations of violence, complaints that went unanswered, and the changing of locks during her absence reinforced her sense of injustice and erasure. At its core, this case goes far beyond a single video or a physical altercation. It raises broader questions about the place of women in non-formalized unions, the legal vulnerability of those who invest without guarantees, and the right of a man to protect a family inheritance that does not belong to him alone. It exposes the tensions between tradition and modern law, between celebrity and private life, between public image and intimate reality. Above all, it reminds us that a couple can fall apart without there being a monster on one side and a flawless victim on the other. Thirty years of shared life leave deep marks. Sacrifices were made, mistakes committed, silences endured for too long. It is possible that each party, in their own way, believed they were acting rightly or trying to preserve what could still be saved. It is also evident that the public exposure of this conflict has only intensified the wounds, transforming a family tragedy into a court of public opinion. Today, more than the search for a culprit, what seems necessary is appeasement. For their child, for their respective dignity, and to prevent anger from completely erasing what was once a sincere bond. Some stories do not require a public verdict, but rather a space for dialogue, mediation, and perhaps moral repair. For behind the star and behind the wounded woman stand, above all, two human beings whom life has ultimately set against one another. Pour plus d'informations sur l'actualite, abonnez vous sur : notre chaine WhatsApp A WOMAN in her 30s was arrested following the seizure of illegal drugs with an estimated street value of more than 1.7 million in Carlow town on Sunday. The seizure was made as part of Operation Tara, an ongoing investigation targeting the sale and supply of drugs in the area. Gardai from the Carlow Drugs Unit stopped and searched a car in the town on February 8th and recovered suspected heroin and cannabis with an estimated street value of more than 136,000. In a follow-up search of a house in the town, Gardai seized 12kg of suspected heroin with an estimated street value of 1.68 million, cannabis herb and resin valued at almost 50,000, and Alprazolam and Zopiclone tablets. The woman was arrested and is currently being detained at a Garda station in the Eastern Region under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996. All seized items will be submitted to Forensic Science Ireland for analysis. Gardai say investigations are ongoing. Olivia Kelleher Anti immigration activist Derek Blighe has been sent forward for trial on a charge of harassing a member of An Garda Siochana. Blighe of Curraghvoe, Mitchelstown, Co Cork, appeared before Cork District Court on Monday, having previously been charged that on dates between February 22nd, 2023, and December 4th, 2023, he harassed a garda. The alleged offence is contrary to Section 10 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. A book of evidence was served on Blighe on Monday. Sgt John Dineen reminded Blighe of his bail conditions in the case. He pointed to the requirement that Blighe not comment on the case online. He (Blighe) is skirting quite close to online commentary, especially in relation to commentary on this case online. Judge John King sent the case forward to a sitting of Cork Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday. A date for the trial will be set on that occasion. Blighe was remanded on bail pending his appearance at the Circuit Court on Thursday. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge. Meanwhile, Dt Sgt Christopher Cahill previously said that Blighe and his co-accused were involved in a campaign of harassment against the garda. The detective sergeant said that in February 2023, the victim in the case was walking outside Cork District Court having given evidence in a separate case when he was approached on Anglesea Street by the accused and two other people. The garda was wearing a civilian jacket as he walked down the street. He was allegedly recorded and live-streamed by the accused who also verbally abused him. A video of the interaction was posted on social media. Cahill said that the garda was followed by the people who were filming him. He was afraid to get his bus home in case his address became public. The court heard that a video of the incident, which had a caption with derogatory comments about the garda, was viewed several thousand times online. Blighe also allegedly went on to post videos of himself talking about the alleged victim in the case in April, August, and December 2023. In one post, he allegedly said that the garda was terrified and afraid to leave his home. The detective sergeant previously indicated that the alleged harassment has had a negative effect on the garda and his family. The victim will say he had not consented to being recorded. He was prevented from going to a bus station to go home because he feared he would be followed. The victim was distressed and it has had a negative impact on him and his family. Under the terms of his bail, Blighe has to refrain from having any contact, direct or indirect, with the alleged victim in the case. He cannot post about anything related to the case on social media. Blighe was eliminated in the 16th count in the European Parliament elections in June 2024, having received 38,625 votes. Meanwhile, his co-accused in the case, Ross Lahive, who is a former European Election candidate for the Irish People Party, also appeared before Cork District Court on Monday morning. A book of evidence was served on him. Lahive was also sent forward to Cork Circuit Criminal Court for trial. Lahive is charged that on dates between October 9th, 2022, and February 6th, 2025, he harassed a garda. The alleged offence is contrary to Section 10 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Lahive is contesting the case against him. Lahive of Church Street, Shandon Street in Cork was remanded on bail until his next court appearance on Thursday at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. Under the terms of his bail, the 46-year-old has to refrain from having any contact, direct or indirect, with the alleged victim in the case. He also cannot post about anything related to the case on social media. By Grainne Ni Aodha and Cillian Sherlock, Press Association An Irishman who has been detained by ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has described the facilities as like a modern day concentration camp. Seamus Culleton said he would like Taoiseach Micheal Martin to raise his case with US president Donald Trump during his meeting at the White House in March. Culleton is originally from Co Kilkenny, but has been living in the US for almost 20 years and is married to a US citizen. He was driving home after finishing work when he was detained by ICE agents in September 2025. He said he noticed a man with blue sunglasses was driving the car and then several others appeared around him. He was asked if he had a green card and he said he did not, but said he was married to a US citizen, had a work permit and was due to receive his green card. He was detained and initially put into a holding cell in Massachusetts, before being taken to New York, then and then to the detention centre in El Paso in Texas. He claimed that ICE agents had tried to get him to sign deportation papers, which he said he absolutely did not. He described the detention centre in El Paso as horrible, where there is little sanitation, limited food and where it was tough to stay positive. He said he was in fear of his life from the security firm in charge, who he said were capable of anything, and said that it is not easy to predict what will happen. He said there were 72 people in a tent the size of 16ft by 35ft room with no ceiling, with two rows of bunk beds on either side and a long table down the middle. He described the conditions at the camp as filthy, the toilets and showers as nasty, and that illnesses are rife among those being detained. He said there was competition for food and said he had definitely lost weight. There is no real quality of life here. Ive been locked in the same room now for four and a half months, he told RTEs Liveline programme. Ive had barely any outside time, no fresh air, no sunshine. I could probably count on both hands the amount of times Ive been outside. Id be so grateful if we could just end this ASAP. Ive been detained now for five months, locked in the same room for four and a half of those months. Its just torture. I dont know how much more I can take. On the same programme, Culletons wife, Tiffany, described the shock of his detention and the awful experience of trying to maintain contact with him in the intervening period. She said she did not hear from him for almost a week after an initial phone call following his arrest, and said she did not know if he was deported and had no idea if he was safe. Asked if she had been allowed to visit her husband, she said ICE officially allows visits but it is almost impossible to set one up. She had booked flights from Massachusetts to Texas to attend one of Culletons court dates, but the hearing was moved on the day before her journey. Hes a good man. I dont think anyone deserves this but Seamus definitely doesnt deserve this, she said. She said she had attempted to reach senators and Trump about the case but had received no response. Earlier, Culletons sister, Caroline, said his family still does not know why he was detained. There are no words. I mean the way theyre being kept and theyre locked up, and hes only been allowed out a couple of times. They dont see the sunlight. They dont get out. Their health deteriorates. She said he has lost an awful lot of weight, adding that he has sores, infections and hair loss. She told the News at One programme that his ongoing detention was heartbreaking for our mother and his extended family. PRESENTATION de la Salle College in Bagenalstown has received funding for a new school building for its 750 students, it was announced last week. Its fantastic, we are so excited, said principal Micheal Hickey. The new school building will be built where the schools GAA pitches are, which means that the students will not have to move while the building is being constructed. Mr Hickey also said that the new school will mean that students will have access to more classrooms and more specialised classrooms. At present, some of the schools classrooms are in temporary buildings. Two other schools in the county, Bennekerry National School and St Laserians Special School, also received funding for extensions to existing school buildings. Rachel Dolan, principal of St Laserians Special School, said that the planning for its extension is only in its early stages, with the exact location yet to be determined. Ms Dolan said: As welcome as additional accommodation is, it has to be really, really carefully planned for the cohort that we already have. Ireland is currently experiencing a nationwide shortage of places in special schools for students with additional needs. In March 2025, the group Equality in Education, which represents 200 parents of children with additional needs, staged a sleep-out protest outside Leinster House to bring attention to what it called the ongoing crisis in special education. The funding for schools in Carlow will come from the 5 billion worth of funding that has been set aside under the governments Education Sectoral Plan to provide additional capacity and modernisation of facilities, with strong special education dimension to all projects. The plan has been criticised by some for not providing a commitment to deliver these projects within a certain timeframe and the amount of funding set aside for the youth sector, which is 1% of the total budget. Advertisement The Cement Industry Federation (CIF) has welcomed the Albanese Governments announcement of a US$321m second round of the Powering the Regions Fund (PRF), saying it will help support emissions reduction across one of Australias most difficult-to-decarbonise sectors. Australias cement manufacturing industry is critical to national growth and economic prosperity, but is also recognised as emissions intensive, trade exposed and hard to abate. CIF said the sector shares the Governments goal of net zero emissions by 2050, however achieving that target will require long-term policy certainty and sustained investment to ensure local producers remain internationally competitive. The new PRF round is aimed at trade-exposed facilities covered by the safeguard mechanism and vulnerable to carbon leakage from imports produced under weaker carbon regulations. CIF noted this includes cement manufacturers. Under the programme, grants will be matched by industry to fund new equipment and technology to reduce Scope 1 process emissions, as well as research and development for innovative manufacturing approaches. CIF members previously accessed PRF funding to upgrade kilns and processes, enabling greater use of alternative fuels and reducing emissions intensity. CIF CEO Denise Spinks said decarbonising cement is a complex, multi-decade challenge requiring ongoing collaboration between government, industry and research, and the second PRF round will help accelerate progress. Comicomment: Kicked over justice Ecns.cn) 10:58, February 09, 2026 Protesters gathered across the United States last Friday for a nationwide general strike against federal immigration enforcement operations and the recent fatal shootings by immigration agents. The protests were triggered by the deaths of two Minneapolis residents shot by federal agents this month. Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was fatally shot on Jan. 7 by an agent from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws. Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was killed on Jan. 24 by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents while observing a federal operation. Is ICE enforcing the law or abusing power and treating human lives as disposable? When violent force upends the scales of justice and warps its symbols, justice becomes a prop that the powerful can discard at will, and fairness becomes a fig leaf covering brutality. Human life deserves equal respect not to be sacrificed to unchecked authority. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) A diesel fuel "scammer" has been found on Lookout Mountain at Mentone, Ala., with 600 gallons of diesel in the back of a U-Haul. In a 2:20 a.m. incident, a Dekalb County deputy conducted a traffic stop on the van traveling eastbound on Highway 117 in Mentone near East River Road. During the traffic stop, the deputy noticed the driver, Michel Alvarez, 42, of Los Angeles, Calif., was hauling large tanks containing approximately 600 gallons of diesel fuel stowed improperly within the rear of the van. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, a bag containing electrical switches, wiring, remotes, and battery packs was found, which raised suspicions when coupled with such a large amount of diesel fuel in close proximity. The Dekalb County Drugs and Major Crimes Unit, Mentone Police Department, The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were all notified and responded to the scene to assist. Investigators later learned that Alvarez was conducting a sophisticated multi-state diesel fuel theft which consisted of illegally hijacking diesel pumps at truck stops across the country. Alvarez had traveled from New Jersey down the east coast gaining access to an unknown number of diesel fuel pumps to essentially "scam" the pumps into dispensing fuel without paying. At the conclusion of the initial investigation, Alvarez was arrested and charged with felony unlawful motor vehicle fuel transport, receiving stolen property, and possession of burglary tools. The Department of Homeland Security was also notified and are assisting in the case. This is an ongoing investigation, and other charges may be pending, officials said. DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident, "This traffic stop uncovered a large, multi-state fuel theft operation that posed a serious threat to public safety. Because of the Deputy's attention to detail, a dangerous situation was prevented and helped stop illegal activity at truck stops across the country." The Chickamauga, Ga., City Council on Monday night voted 4-1 to oust Mayor Trey Deck. The vote came after the council members heard recorded interviews of several city employees about an incident in which the mayor allegedly told a female employee that she looked "hot" in her red pants and was a "ho" who could make money out on the street corner. Also, a tape was played in which the mayor left a voice mail for a city employee that allegedly contained racist remarks. Attorney Jeremy Penland called the proceedings unfair and said it was "a witch hunt, a lynching." Outside counsel for the city said the lynching remark "was especially offensive" given the alleged remarks on the tape. Attorney Penland has filed suit in behalf of the mayor in Walker County Superior Court, and there is a hearing on Friday. The employee who had worn the red pants said, "He's always flirty around women. He says he's the mayor. He's untouchable." She said he told her, "You can call me king or master." She said, "That made me disgusted." Attorney Penland said Mayor Deck and the female employee often jokingly sparred with one another, including when she worked for a local bank. He said prior to that the woman had worked at the water company when now City Manager Micheal Haney was an official there. He said it was City Manager Haney who had brought her onto the city payroll. The attorney also said the woman had gotten charged in East Ridge with hitting a man, though it was later dismissed. The mayor had been aware of the charges since Jan. 15, it was stated. Mayor Deck issued a statement on Monday afternoon that he and his attorney did not plan to attend the meeting after a threatening call came in to the lawyer office. He said, "The threat was immediately reported to law enforcement, and counsel for all parties associated with this afternoons meeting were immediately notified. The safety of our residents, elected officials, city employees, and first responders is our highest priority. Upon learning this information, my representatives immediately coordinated with local and regional law enforcement agencies. Given the seriousness of this matter, members of the public are strongly encouraged to evaluate whether in person attendance in necessary should the city council elect to move forward with the proceedings this evening. "Those who choose to attend should expect heightened security procedures, limited access areas, and potential delays. Any suspicious activities should be reported immediately to law enforcement. The situation is being actively monitored and additional actions will be taken if warranted. The City will provide updates as appropriate. We appreciate the cooperation of the public as we take steps to ensure safety and maintain order while continuing the work of local government. "Democracy survives on disagreement and our community survives on respect. I care more about protecting the citizens of Chickamauga than any outcome of tonights hearing. It is incumbent upon each citizen to uphold the values instilled in us as North Georgians and citizens of our great nation. We have the privilege to be tasked with upholding these principals during this time of political tension. I ask all of you to come together to support the legal process and allow justice to prevail. is denying any inappropriate conduct and said an effort to oust him is being carried out by City Manager Micheal Haney." He also said that a planned hearing for Monday on the issue was not properly advertised. A statement in behalf of the mayor says, "The Mayor provides this statement in an effort to fulfill campaign promises, particularly with respect for transparency to his constituents. For more than a month, the Mayor has been inundated with questions about the proceedings, but under advice of counsel, has not spoken on the issue. However, given the lengthy delay of the so called emergency and public sentiment, the Mayor believes the public is owed a response concerning certain aspects of the proceedings. "First, the Mayor would like to address the improper nature and violation of the City Charter concerning the most recent published agenda. The Mayor contends the notice of hearing published by the City Manager is deficient and in violation of City Charter Section 3.12 in that it did not provide 48 hours notice. Notice was published on the Chickamauga City Website at 5:00 on Friday, February 6, setting the hearing for Monday, February 9, at 6 p.m. Specifically, Section 1-2 of the Citys Ordinance states that any notice period which provides for fewer than seven days shall not include weekends. Being that Notice was not issued until after hours late Friday afternoon, not enough time has run to properly commence a hearing. "Furthermore, the City Manager has not provide three recently elected City Council members the opportunity to take their oaths of office pursuant to Section 3.11 of the Charter, which cannot occur until a regularly scheduled hearing. This special hearing does not qualify. Consequently, the City Council Members are not authorized to commence business on behalf of the City until such time as the oaths are lawfully administered in accordance with the City Charter. These issues only delay the hearing but do not stop the impending hearing. However, proper notice and procedure would permit the Mayor adequate time to petition the Court seeking injunctive relief, and provide time to be heard by the Court, in order to preserve the Mayors constitutional rights to due process. If the City is not willing to provide due process to the Mayor, then it must follow that the City is not willing to consider the due process rights of its citizens. The Mayor stands up for the rights of all citizens of the City of Chickamauga. "Additionally, the Mayor recently obtained relevant evidence via open records request to City Hall, which was not provided by the City Attorney. This evidence provides, without a doubt, that the City Manager and at least one City Council member have considered the evidence without hearing the Mayors defense to the charges weeks before this hearing was set. This text message string, obtained by the Mayor in accordance with an open records request, clearly shows that said council member has already decided the Mayors fate before considering any evidence offered by the Mayor. "Furthermore, this City Council member, and at least one other City Council member, are either direct business associates of the City Manager, Michael Haney, or have contracts with the City that were negotiated with and approved by the City Manager. Notwithstanding these conflicts, these City Council Members have failed to recuse themselves from deciding the Mayors case despite their clear conflicts of interest. Mr. Haney is responsible for initiating this removal action in retaliation for campaign promises made by the Mayor to remove Mr. Haney from his role as the City Manager. Notably, it is believed that Mr. Haney did not attend the previous meeting in order to avoid being called as a witness by the Mayors representative despite being the individual initiating and conducting the investigation into purported allegations of inappropriate comments made by the Mayor to city employees; an allegation which the Mayor vehemently denies." 26-001226 4100 BLK Ringgold Road Traffic Stop / DUI Arrest A patrol officer observed a Toyota minivan failing to maintain its lane while traveling on Ringgold Road. Police initiated a traffic stop and determined the driver was highly intoxicated. He was taken into custody and charged with Driving Under the Influence, Driving Without a License, and Financial Responsibility. Day Shift February 6 : A Squad No Number 3600 BLK Ringgold Road Field Interview Officers observed a male subject sitting on a case of beer in the parking lot and spoke with him. He was identified found to be staying at a nearby hotel. The man was checked for warrants and sent on his way. FI #26-000019. 26-001152 900 BLK South Seminole - Property Police spoke with the reporting party, who stated that a couch was delivered to her residence but did not belong to her. Police located the rightful owner and returned the item. 26-001148 - 941 Spring Creek Road - Disorder/Arrest Police responded to a disorderly and aggressive patient in the emergency room. The subject refused repeated requests to return to her room, became increasingly agitated, threatened police, and struck an officer in the head. She was taken into custody for disorderly conduct and assault on police and transported to Hamilton County Jail for booking. 26-001155 1400 BLK Dover Lane - Property The resident reported finding a broken-off screwdriver in the drivers side lock of her car, as if someone had attempted to steal the vehicle. No camera footage or suspect description was available. 26-001157 4300 BLK Ringgold Road - Shoplifter A store manager reported that a female left the store with multiple containers of laundry detergent before fleeing in a white SUV. A warrant will be sought pending positive identification of the suspect. Night Shift February 6 : C Squad 26-001169 The City of East Ridge, TN Traffic Saturation The East Ridge Police Department conducted a Traffic Saturation Operation through the funding and support of the Tennessee Highway Safety Office. During the operation, East Ridge Police Officers conducted a total of 74 traffic stops resulting in 70 traffic citations. In addition, Police Officers made two arrests, recovered one stolen firearm, and seized several grams of marijuana and fentanyl. 26-001161 500 BLK Frawley Road Suspicious Person A local resident reported a suspicious male was walking through the area and looking into cars and residential windows. There was a 20-minute delay in the reporting of the incident. Police Officers responded to the area and found the suspicious male had left the area. 26-001163 6300 BLK Ringgold Road Attempted Burglary A security guard at a business reported seeing two males walking from behind a neighboring building. The security guard confronted the males, who stated they were just throwing away unwanted items. Police Officers responded to the location and found several bricks laying near the back door. ERPD also found damage consistent with an attempted break-in utilizing the bricks; however, the suspects did not enter the business. Police checked the area for the suspects, but they were not located. Arrest warrants or juvenile attachments are pending the identification of the two suspects. 26-001165 600 BLK Camp Jordan Parkway Back EMS Police Officers responded to the drive through area behind the restaurant to check on a fall victim. The patient was an elderly male who was walking back to his hotel after dining at a local restaurant. EMS checked the male, and he was successfully escorted back to his hotel room. 26-001168 6600 BLK Ringgold Road Traffic Stop / Arrest Police conducted a traffic stop with a silver Lexus due to an observed registration violation. The driver of the vehicle was identified and found to have a suspended drivers license. The passenger was determined to have a valid arrest warrant through the City of Collegedale for Failure to Appear. Police Officers also detected the odor of marijuana, and a probable cause search was conducted. The vehicle search yielded a small amount of fentanyl, marijuana, a stolen firearm, and a large amount of cash. Both were taken into custody and charged with Simple Possession of an Illegal of 7 Substance, Child Endangerment, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 26-001172 6600 BLK Ringgold Road - Traffic Stop / Narcotics Seizure An officer observed a red Ford Focus driving erratically on Ringgold Road and conducted a traffic stop with the vehicle. Police Officers found that neither occupant had a valid drivers license and the vehicle did not have a current registration or insurance. Police Officers conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and located approximately 21 grams of suspected marijuana and a THC dab pen. The vehicle was towed from the scene due to multiple violations. All contraband was seized and marked for destruction. Day Shift February 7 : A Squad 26-001080 4100 BLK Ringgold Road Criminal Trespass Officers responded to a disorder between a male and female at this location. It was determined that a verbal argument had taken place over a social media post. The female subject was advised of the criminal trespass warning and sent on her way. Proximity Restriction #26-000028. 26-001173 400 BLK Scruggs Road - Vehicle Fire Police were dispatched to the gravel lot on a reported vehicle fire. Upon arrival, a Toyota Camry was observed with the hood up and the engine bay on fire. Police knocked down the flames prior to ERFD arrival. Fire units responded and extinguished the remaining fire. No injuries or other property damage occurred. 26-001176 6300 BLK Ringgold Road - Vandalism / Burglary Attempt Police responded to the business after employees arrived at work and observed the security cameras damaged and bricks along the walkway. Police observed video surveillance video of a masked person wearing a puffy jacket damage the exterior camera. Officers also observed interior video of a male and a female in the store earlier in the day wearing similar clothing to the vandal that attempted the break-in. The manager requested that the store be added to the watch list. Watch #26-000004 26-001178 4400 BLK Ringgold Road- Narcotics Violation Officers responded to the market after the cashier called in saying they found a baggie of suspected narcotics on the ground in front of the register. Officers arrived and seized the baggie for destruction. 26-001179 -600 BLK Marlboro Avenue- Disorder Prevention - Officers stood by while the subject of a TPO retrieved property from the above address with a Law Enforcement Escort. Night Shift February 7 : C Squad 26-001187 1400 BLK Mana Lane- Disorder Prevention A man requested Police presence while he collected belongings from his previous residence. ERPD responded to the location and waited approximately 10 minutes for the reporting party. Dispatch then contacted the man and confirmed he was still enroute. Police waited an additional 30 minutes, but he never showed. 26-001190 5300 BLK Reneau Way Burglar Alarm Police Officers responded to an alarm at this residence. Upon arrival, Police checked the exterior doors and windows but found no signs of forced entry. ERPD attempted to contact the residents of the home, but no one answered the door and a phone number was not located. 26-001191 3500 BLK Connelly Lane Supplemental Information The party provided additional information for an on-going deceptive practice investigation. She reported he had received two additional phone calls from the suspect. The times and the phone number for the calls were recorded and forwarded to the original reporting officer. 26-001192 3400 BLK Lisa Drive Unknown 911 Police Officers responded to a 911 hang-up call in this area. Upon further investigation, it was found the call was made from a 911 only phone and a call back was not possible. Police Officers canvassed the apartment complex but did not hear or observe any signs of distress. 26-001193 3600 BLK Shirl Jo Lane Domestic Disorder Police Officers responded to a verbal argument among several family members at this address. The reporting party stated her adult son was not helping with the bills, and he was creating problems for the rest of the family. Police determined the reporting party, her adult son, and another relative were legal residents of the home. After speaking with officers, the problematic son willingly left the area and agreed to vacate the residence. 26-001195 2000 BLK Windmere Drive, Ridgeside Domestic Disorder Police responded to this location for a reported domestic disorder. Officers found that a man and woman were arguing over the terms of their pending divorce. Police also determined both individuals were under the influence of alcoholic beverages. One half of the disorder agreed to stay at a friend's house for the night and let the situation calm down. 26-001201 1500 BLK McBrien Road Domestic Disorder An anonymous neighbor reported a prolonged verbal disorder. Police Officers responded to the location and met with several adults inside the home. Upon further investigation, Police determined that argument was over financial issues, and some of the occupants were intoxicated. ERPD found the argument was verbal only and there were no signs of an assault or other criminal activity. Officers explained the available legal options to all the occupants before departing the area. 26-001202 4200 BLK Bennett Road Mentally Disturbed Police responded to the area of Ridgefield Circle after a suspicious male was found knocking on several doors and claiming his family was trying to kill him. Officers spoke with the subject and determined he was experiencing a mental health episode. Police also went to his familys residence on Bennett Road and spoke with several individuals in the home. It was determined no one was attempting to harm the subject. The male was placed in protective custody and transported to a local hospital for an evaluation. Day Shift February 8 : A Squad 26-001211 6700 BLK Jordan Run - Property Damage - Police responded to the ball fields after an estate sale employee reported a customer for breaking the trunk mechanism on a vehicle for sale. Police spoke with both parties and determined the incident to be accidental in nature. After giving the RP a courtesy ride back to the residence, she learned that the trunk was able to be secured, and there were no signs of damage to the vehicle. 26-001214 1500 BLK Karwill Lane Indecent Exposure/Arrest A man was taken into custody for Indecent Exposure after exposing his entire buttocks to his neighbor during a dispute outside over a disruptive dog. 26-001204 200 BLK Windmere Drive Disorder Prevention Officers met with two parties to assist in the retrieval of belongings during an ongoing divorce. While on scene, both parties had a disagreement over child custody and started another disorder at an offsite location. 26-001215 3600 BLK Weldon Drive - Theft A party called in to report a disorder after hearing a male and female arguing followed by the sound of breaking glass. Officers observed no signs of a disorder and were unable to contact the RP. The resident, however, wished to make a report for a disorder due to her doorbell camera being taken. 26-001208 3600 BLK Larry Lane - GPS Device Check Police were dispatched to the incident location due to a possible tampering with an ankle monitor. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the subject and checked his ankle monitor. No evidence of tampering was found. Night Shift February 8 : C Squad 26-001217 1400 BLK Mack Smith Road Suspicious Activity A manager reported that a troubled employee was planning a disorder in the restaurant when he quit his job that evening. The manager also advised the employee was supposed to arrive at 6 p.m. but had yet to show up as of 6:20 p.m. Police checked the area throughout the evening. No disorder was observed or reported at the location. 28-001218 1600 BLK Heather Street Disorder Prevention The caller requested Police presence while she retrieved her property from the residence. Officers responded to the location and met with her. No issues were reported at the scene. 26-001223 6700 BLK Ringgold Road Disorder Police Officers responded to a disorder at the gas station involving several customers and an employee. ERPD determined that a man arrived at the location in an agitated state and initiated a verbal disorder with several customers in the parking lot. An employee told him to leave the premises, but he initially refused. Police Officers successfully de-escalated the situation, and the man left with a family member. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has announced a partnership with 911Cellular to deploy a new emergency notification and incident management system.This system improves the Universitys ability to communicate and respond during urgent and emergency situations, significantly strengthening UTCs emergency communications.Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride, and quickly access other campus resources.The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store With the implementation of 911Cellular and the launch of the Safe@UTC app, we have taken our campus safety commitment to the next level, UTC Director of Emergency Management, Threat Assessment, and Safety Brett Fuchs said. Keeping our community safe is a top priority at UTC. We now have a sophisticated security solution that enhances our ability to respond to emergencies and another tool to help prevent them in the first place.For emergency responders, the system provides real-time situational visibility, including precise location details, shared maps and other critical content. Incident-specific alerts help route information to the teams best equipped to respond, supporting faster action and improved coordination.The 911Cellular Safety Platform and the Safe@UTC app are incredible tools to help us make students and employees feel safe anywhere, anytime. The app is customized to meet the specific needs of our faculty, staff and students, said UTC Associate Vice Chancellor for Public Safety and Chief of Police Sean OBrien, who added: Please dont wait until an emergency to download the app.As part of the expanded safety infrastructure, UTC is also introducing additional on-campus safety options for employees, including wearable, computer-based and wall-mounted panic buttons. Like the Safe@UTC app, these tools connect directly with campus security to support coordinated response during critical situations.The app and related safety tools are being deployed in partnership with 911Cellularone of the countrys top critical communications systems. Its safety solutions are deployed in thousands of facilities across the country and internationally.The Safe@UTC app is a customized security solution designed specifically with the UTC community in mind, 911Cellular Chief Executive Officer Chad Salahshour said. Keeping students and school staff safe is at the heart of what we do, and its our mission to make it easier to act fast, communicate clearly and protect what matters most during an emergencyeach other. 2/12/2026 Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report. (If your case is dismissed, just email us your name and date we ran it and we will promptly take off. Email to news@chattanoogan.com ) BAUGH,CODY ... more A Rome, Ga., man, Jauan Rashun Porter, has been sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for transmitting threats to kill the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump. Threatening to kill the President of the United States is an abhorrent crime that cannot be tolerated, said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. Because the Constitution affords no protection to political violence, we will continue to work closely with our federal partners to identify and prosecute criminals who make such threats. When free speech devolves into threats against the President of the United States or any of our protectees, you can expect the United States Secret Service to bring those criminals to justice, said Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Atlanta Field Office, Robert Donovan. We appreciate the work of the U.S. Attorneys Office, as well as our partners at the local law enforcement partners for their assistance in this case. According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On July 26, 2025, Porter joined a TikTok livestream about President Trump captioned Alligator Alcatraz, commenting: So theres only one way to make America great and that is putting a bullet in between Trumps eyes. Over the next few minutes, Porter further stated: Im gonna kill Donald Trump. Im gonna put a 7.62 bullet inside his forehead. Im gonna watch him bleed out and Im gonna watch him die. Itll be on the news . . . his rally is coming up pretty soon and Im going there and Im going to put a bullet in his head. Imma load up a rifle [and] sit inside . . . an abandoned building . . . and when he approaches the rally . . . Im gonna put one . . . if not the face then . . . in his chest. When asked by the livestream host about federal agents coming to his door, Porter stated, Im gonna kill them too . . . and then kill myself[.] During the investigation, U.S. Secret Service agents, Floyd County police officers, and State of Georgia probation officers conducted searches of Porters apartment and found two pipes, pistol ammunition, and Tannerite (an explosive). They did not locate a gun. Porter has multiple prior felony convictions in Floyd County, including for terroristic threats and acts in 2018 and 2019, influencing a witness in 2019, and unlawful act of violence in a penal institution in 2023. He is currently on probation for a 2023 conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and battery domestic violence. Porter, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William M. Ray II to three years and five months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Porter was convicted on Oct. 7, 2025, after he pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting interstate threats. Porter was detained in this case on August 8, 2025. The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service. The Floyd County Police Department, Floyd County District Attorneys Office, and Troup County Sheriffs Office provided valuable assistance in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Pearce prosecuted the case. The Company Lab (CO.LAB) announced a statewide, flagship initiative to demystify the quantum economy and cultivate pathways to quantum commercialization - with a spotlight on Chattanooga, where groundbreaking infrastructure and visionary partnerships are already positioning the city at the forefront of practical quantum applications, officials said.Quantum technology is advancing quickly, and regions that organize early will define the next decade of innovation, CO.LAB CEO Tasia Malakasis said.Tennessee has a rare window to lead the Southeast. This initiative helps catalyze the states efforts by building shared understanding, sparking collaboration and converting technical expertise into long-term economic impact.The first of three events in the Quantum Activation Series is slated for March 12 at The University of Tennessee at Chattanoogas Wolford Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. CO.LAB will convene researchers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to address one core question: How does quantum research become real-world economic impact?With sponsorship support from the leading commercial quantum platform company IonQ, the Quantum Activation Series also engages other local and regional leaders in the space, including the Chattanooga Quantum Collective, EPB, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Tennessee Tech University, Launch Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University.Hosted in partnership with the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the eventwill spotlight practical pathways for quantum commercialization - connecting academic research, emerging startups and industry use cases across Tennessee, officials said.IonQ has played an active role in quantum innovation and deployment in Tennessee and theChattanooga region providing quantum computing, networking and security technology for quantum infrastructure and other projects like EPBs pioneering Quantum Network in Chattanooga, said Jordan Shapiro, president and GM of quantum networking, sensing and security at IonQ. Were excited to help support further exploration of quantums possibilities through the QAS.The second Quantum Activation Series event is slated for April 10 at Middle Tennessee StateUniversity, with details on the final event of the series forthcoming.Register here ViscoTec has reached another strategic milestone in its global expansion: On January 23, 2026, the company acquired its long-standing sales partner MEI Representaciones, based in Queretaro, Mexico, thereby establishing the new ViscoTec Mexico branch. Mexico is one of the most dynamic growth markets worldwide and is an important production location for the US. With its new local presence, ViscoTec is strengthening its market position in North and Central America and paves the way for serving customers from key industries such as electronics, e-mobility, automotive, food, cosmetics, and increasingly also from the aerospace industry even more directly. With the acquisition of MEI, we are creating a direct basis for sustainable growth in one of the most important production locations in North and Central America, explains Franz Kamhuber, Managing Director of ViscoTec Pumpen- u. Dosiertechnik GmbH. Hector Bravo Ontiveros, who has a long history of working with ViscoTec, will take over as managing director of the new branch. The mechatronics engineer studied and worked in Germany for a couple of years before joining the family business MEI, where he rose from sales engineer to member of the management team. Over the past ten years, my team and I have played a key role in establishing and sustainably developing ViscoTec in Mexico, said Bravo. We are convinced of the companys technological strength, appreciate the people behind it, and admire its corporate culture. We are therefore much delighted to now be part of the ViscoTec family and to continue the successful development of the company together with our new colleagues. The existing team of nine employees will be transferred in its entirety to the new organization. MEI itself was founded in 1985 as Montajes Electromecanicos e Ingenieria SA de CV and has established itself as a reliable partner in the region over the decades. For more than ten years, the company was supported by ViscoTec America a decisive foundation for the current step. A research team led by Dr. Dandan Gao from the Department of Chemistry at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) has developed a new method for the sustainable production of ammonia and formic acid. Ammonia is indispensable in modern agriculture and, like formic acid, is an important raw material for industry. It is traditionally produced using the Haber-Bosch process, which is extremely energy-intensive and causes considerable CO2 emissions . It is also possible to produce ammonia by electrolysis, i.e. with the help of electricity, but this is still a young field of research. Electrolysis offers a sustainable alternative for production because it can be powered by green electricity. "We have now been able to achieve three key points," says Gao: "Firstly, we have developed a catalyst made of copper, nickel and tungsten that significantly increases the ammonia yield during electrolysis. Secondly, we were able to increase the yield once again by using pulsed instead of static electrolysis. And thirdly, we produce formic acid as a further product within the coupled electrochemical process." The team led by Gao and her colleagues Christean Nickel and David Leander Troglauer published the new method this week in the renowned scientific journal Angewandte Chemie. Novel catalyst design The researchers developed the novel so-called three-component tandem electrocatalyst in order to make the usual electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia as efficient as possible. "We chose copper, nickel and tungsten for the following reasons," says Gao: "In order to produce ammonia from nitrate, the oxygen must first be removed from the nitrate - catalyzed by copper. Hydrogen must then be produced, which is where the nickel comes into its own as a catalyst. Now the hydrogen must not escape into the air or react in any other way, but must be selectively bound to the nitrogen: This is the task of the tungsten. Compared to tandem catalysts made of copper and nickel, which were already considered promising, our catalyst achieves an ammonia yield that is more than 50 percent higher," says Gao. Pulsed instead of static electrolysis The use of pulsed instead of static electrolysis increases the yield by a further 17 percent. The set-up is identical in both cases. The only difference is the electrical voltage applied to the electrodes. In static electrolysis it is constant, whereas in pulsed electrolysis it constantly alternates between two voltage values. Former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback testifies at a U.S. House Foreign Affairs subcommittee hearing on Feb. 4, 2026, warning that China is exporting surveillance technology and religious repression worldwide. | Photo credit: Christian Daily International At a joint Feb. 4 hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Africa and Western Hemisphere subcommittees in Washington, former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback warned that a growing alliance of authoritarian states now views religious freedom as a threat to their control. We are seeing something unprecedented really right now in the world, and Ive been in this work and this space for some period of time, Brownback told lawmakers. This alliance of communist, authoritarian, totalitarian regimes will literally stop at nothing to control people of faith. They see people of faith as a threat. Brownback said China stands at the center of this alliance, noting that the Chinese Communist Party spends billions of dollars annually to suppress religious expression at home while exporting advanced surveillance technologies to other repressive regimes abroad. The community of faith has become the target of this dark alliance that were facing off against, and China is the puppet master behind all of it, Brownback said. And we should be deeply concerned about those issues, because that equipment then were going to face in multiple sets of countries, and theyre going to use that to maintain the dictatorships, the authoritarians that are standing against us that want to remove the United States leadership and the Western leadership. Brownback said a forthcoming book he co-authored on Chinas global campaign against religion, scheduled for release in May, documents the spread of surveillance technologies into dozens of countries. When the book had been written, it was in 80 countries, the various surveillance technologies and various iterations of it, he said. He also alleged that Nigeria has sought or received assistance from countries including China, Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, arguing that these partnerships complicate efforts to protect religious freedom. According to Brownback, promoting religious liberty remains the most effective way for democratic nations to counter authoritarian regimes and address broader security threats. This is unprecedented it is really unprecedented, and its a dark hour, he said. The U.S. and other freedom-loving nations must rise to this challenge that were facing today. Committee member Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, emphasized during the hearing that religious freedom is a universal principle that transcends political parties, faith traditions, and geographic regions. Castro criticized the current administration for failing to nominate an Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, a position mandated by law, instead appointing a principal adviser to lead the office. The Trump administration, Castro said, is more than a year overdue in releasing its annual International Religious Freedom reports and, aside from Nigeria, has not designated additional Countries of Particular Concern as required under U.S. law. Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., echoed those concerns, pointing out that the 2024 International Religious Freedom Report was due last May and that preparations for the 2025 report are already behind schedule. Jacobs also warned that funding cuts have weakened international efforts to defend persecuted religious communities. As part of its foreign assistance review, the administration cut millions of dollars worth of foreign assistance related to international religious freedom, she said. For example, Freedom House has reported that the administration terminated its Asia religious and ethnic freedom program that was supporting 4,000 members of religious minority groups facing discrimination and persecution, including Christian minority groups, Uyghurs and others. The Trump administration also made cuts to a Non-Governmental Organization that left 400 cases undertaken by religious freedom defenders in limbo, she said. This means that this organization could no longer provide life-saving assistance to Afghan women who bravely ran for public office following the U.S. withdrawal, or Iranian journalists who were reporting on human rights violations by Irans regime, or Nicaraguan journalists who have been arrested and forced into exile by the regime, and many, many more, Jacobs said. Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City of Jerusalem. | Photo credit: Wikipedia/ Gerd Eichmann Speakers at the sixth annual International Religious Freedom Summit on Monday warned that religious freedom is rapidly deteriorating across several Middle Eastern countries, urging the United States, Western governments, and international bodies to take stronger action. During a panel titled Voices from Underreported Religious Communities Caught Amid Conflict, Karmella Borashan of the Assyrian International Council described the long-term suffering of Assyrian Christians, tracing their plight to the aftermath of Saddam Husseins fall in 2003 and the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War. Ever since, Assyrians faced systematic, subtle persecution from both the Jihadists and Kurdish forces, each using different tactics, and in Syria, lack of security and economic collapse specifically affects all Syrians, specifically Assyrian Christians as minorities, Borashan said. Many villages that once were very thriving, they remain largely empty. She added that conditions in Iraq remain dire. In Iraq, they face violent attack by Islamist extremists, Borashan said. Assyrian archeological sites more than 3000 years [old] are being vandalized. Borashan also condemned the enforcement of so-called minority laws, which she said forcibly convert children to Islam, warning that Assyrian Christians do not have a chance of survival. Christianity is fading from the Middle East and [Christians] are placed in the mercy of the perpetrators, she said. Once we had 1.5 million Christians, now we have only less than 300,000 left. Borashan argued that what the region needs is pluralism to bring the foundation of democracy. Assyrian Christians were once a thriving and integral part of Iraq, Iran, Syria and Turkey, respected members of society with a Christian faith of more than 2000 years when Jesus came, she said. They have a history of more than 6,000 years. The West has repeatedly failed Assyrian Christians in the Middle East, abandoning them to the prominent powers that have persecuted and massacred them for generations. Kamal Fahmi of the advocacy organization Set My People Free highlighted the severe challenges facing religious minorities in Sudan, which has been embroiled in civil conflict since 2003 and ranks as the worlds fourth worst country for Christian persecution on the Open Doors World Watch List 2026. We have quite a number of victims who were executed or killed by their community because they left Islam, Fahmi said. Most of the time, they have to leave the country to go somewhere else. And also when they leave the country, sadly enough, even within the U.N. system, they dont get relocation easily. Now with the insecurity, with the coup of the army, with the fighting of the two factions, ex-Muslims are very vulnerable, he said. And sadly enough, this is not realized internationally, and nobody is working to really stop this. And they look at this as an impossible law which cannot be changed. And we have many people [who] are suffering. Keyvan Ghaderi of the Bahais of Yemen, who was arrested for his beliefs in 2008 and imprisoned for four months, reflected on his experience behind bars. In prison, our faith was tested like never before, and the majority of the inmates had never heard of the Bahai faith, he said. According to Open Doors, which ranks Yemen as the worlds third worst country for Christian persecution, threats facing religious minorities continue to escalate amid an unrelenting tide of conflict, extremism and economic collapse. Religious freedom and equal citizenship are not abstract ideas. They are foundations of [a] just and harmonious society, Ghaderi said. For Yemen, these principles are not only urgent but essential for healing and rebuilding a nation torn apart by conflict and division. Wylie East High School in Wylie, Texas. | Photo credit: Google Map/ Wylie East High School A North Texas school district says a breakdown in protocol allowed an outside Muslim outreach group to distribute Islamic literature to students at a public high school, prompting an internal investigation and staff discipline. The issue surfaced after a student at Wylie East High School in the Dallas suburb of Wylie shared a video on social media alleging that Islamic materials including a pamphlet promoting Sharia law were distributed on campus. Today, there was an organization called Why Islam that had a huge table booth in front of our school, said Marco Hunter-Lopez, president of the schools Republican Student Club, in the video that quickly gained traction online. Hunter-Lopez said representatives of the group distributed hijabs to female students across the campus, along with copies of the Quran and pamphlets about Sharia law and other Islamic things during the lunch period. After speaking with four women staffing the table, Hunter-Lopez said he questioned why the group was allowed access to students. We typically have colleges come out. We have our clubs he said. Weve never had a faith group, to my understanding. From what Ive seen, Ive never seen churches or Bibles passed out. I cant confirm that 100 percent, but I can say this was a big thing they wanted to push out today, he added. According to The Christian Post, the Why Islam website contains material critical of Christian doctrine, including statements asserting that Jesus is not the Son of God and a full section disputing New Testament teaching, which the site describes as Pauline theology. The website also states that Why Islam is wholly owned by Islamic Circle of North America. Wylie Independent School District spokeswoman April Cunningham told The Christian Post on Wednesday that four women representing the organization Why Islam were present on campus during a lunch period. After reviewing security footage, district officials estimated that about 50 students visited their table. Cunningham emphasized that the situation was not about religion, politics, ideology, or any personal belief system. Instead, she described it as a procedural lapse, saying there was a failure to follow established procedures and that mistakes were made, and we take full responsibility. She also rejected claims that the groups presence was intentional, saying it was not part of a coordinated effort to promote a religious or political agenda. District officials have not yet determined how the group gained entry to the campus or who initially authorized their presence. Cunningham said the district opened an investigation Monday evening after administrators became aware of Hunter-Lopezs video. The appearance of the Why Islam representatives appears connected to World Hijab Day, which the schools Muslim Student Association promoted in a Feb. 1 post on social media. Because the visitors failed to secure the required approval to be on campus or distribute religious materials, the district placed a staff member on leave for granting unauthorized access to students, Cunningham said. Home News At least 162 massacred, executed in Nigeria after rejecting radical Islam: reports Quick Summary AI Summary At least 162 people were killed in Kwara state after residents rejected radical Islam. Gunmen attacked two villages, killing and abducting villagers over a 10-hour period. President Bola Tinubu deployed an army battalion to the region following the violence. An artificial intelligence-powered tool created this summary based on the source article. The summary has undergone review and verification by an editor. See Summary Gunmen massacred and executed dozens of people in two Muslim-majority villages in Nigerias western Kwara state after residents refused to accept their extremist preaching, according to reports. The violence began on Tuesday evening and lasted for about 10 hours, leaving bodies strewn across Woro and Nuku, residents told The Associated Press. The attack follows a letter sent weeks earlier to residents announcing the intention to spread a radical interpretation of Islam. Several villagers, including traditional leaders relatives, were killed or kidnapped. One survivor told AP the assailants entered a mosque, made the call to prayer, and then shot worshippers as they arrived. Gunmen arrived on motorcycles, tied many of the villagers hands behind their backs, and executed them, witnesses said. The attackers also went house to house and opened fire, with some victims shot during prayer, and others burned alive, the villagers said. President Bola Tinubu deployed an army battalion to the region following the killings, which officials blamed on Boko Haram, a terror Islamist group that has previously operated farther north, reports the BBC. Kwara state lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed said 38 people were abducted and properties were destroyed during the attack, which he described as retaliation for resisting radical Islamists. Local security groups were mobilized in response, but were overwhelmed when the attackers descended. In a statement on Wednesday, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the massacre was a reaction to recent counterterror operations and an effort to divert security forces. Only a handful of men were left in the area by Thursday, tasked with burying bodies amid the ashes of destroyed homes and a strong smell of blood. There are not enough people left in the village, one resident told AP. Babaomo Ayodeji of the Nigerian Red Cross confirmed the death toll stood at 162, though more bodies were expected to be found as searches continued, according to AFP. Amnesty International issued a statement saying over 170 people had died, with many shot at close range or burned, and called for a full investigation into what it called a total failure of protection. On the ground in Woro, survivors were seen gathering belongings and leaving for Kaiama, the nearby district center. Maryam Muhammed, a 57-year-old woman, was quoted as saying that she searched through burned corpses to find her husbands body. He had served as the muezzin of the local mosque. When I did not hear his voice when the day broke, I knew there was trouble, she told AP. Nigerias Defence Minister Christopher Musa confirmed for the first time that United States troops were in the country providing intelligence support, following a formal request from Nigerias government. General Dagvin Anderson of U.S. Africa Command said last week that the deployment was part of a growing security partnership focused on counterinsurgency support. The United States carried out airstrikes on Dec. 25 against Islamic State-affiliated militants in northwest Nigeria. The White House had previously urged Nigeria to increase protection for religious communities amid ongoing violence. In recent years, Nigeria has faced attacks from various armed groups, including Boko Haram, the Islamic State of West Africa Province, and others classified locally as bandits. These groups often target both Christian and Muslim communities. Last week, Nigerias military said it killed a senior Boko Haram commander and 10 other militants in Borno during an operation. Home News Church sparks outrage over 'magical' Harry Potter-themed service: 'Zeitgeist-driven' Quick Summary AI Summary A Roman Catholic church in western Germany will hold a Harry Potter-themed worship service. Hundreds have expressed outrage to the Archdiocese of Paderborn. The church defends the service as an attempt to evangelize in a society increasingly abandoning religion. An artificial intelligence-powered tool created this summary based on the source article. The summary has undergone review and verification by an editor. See Summary A Roman Catholic church in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, has prompted outrage for opening its sanctuary later this month for a Harry Potter-themed "worship service" that promises to be a "magical evening," according to its description. Sacred Heart Church in Herne recently issued an advertisement announcing the Feb. 28 event titled "Harry Potter Gottesdienst," a German word that can be translated as "God's service," "divine service" or simply "worship service." The word was used by Protestant Reformer Martin Luther in his famous German translation of the Bible to translate James 1:27, which refers to "religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father." Comparing its sanctuary to the "Great Hall," where large events were held at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the children's series, the Sacred Heart Church invited "fans and Hogwarts newcomers" to gather "among candles, light and darkness, which shows us how hope takes shape." The event also promises "Butterbeer and sweets from Honeydukes," both of which appear in the books. "Feel free to arrive in the colors of your [Hogwarts] house or in magical attire costume," the advertisement says, adding, "Muggle clothing is of course also permitted." Hundreds have emailed the Archdiocese of Paderborn to express their opposition to the event, according to EWTN News. Christkonigtum, a conservative Catholic organization that is spearheading a public pushback campaign, told the Catholic outlet that the Harry Potter-themed event trivializes and even desecrates the sacred space by implementing "magical and occult motifs." "Our motivation is clear," Kevin Mis of Christkonigtum said. "We do not tolerate God's houses being profaned by zeitgeist-driven in this case explicitly occult and magical events. This 'ecumenical Harry Potter service' must not take place." The Archdiocese of Paderborn has justified the event by claiming it is an attempt to evangelize in a society increasingly abandoning religion. "Familiar images and stories from contemporary culture can help to open up initial approaches to the Christian faith and build bridges to the holy Scriptures," Isabella Struck, a spokeswoman for the archdiocese, told EWTN. "With this in mind, local pastoral workers are drawing on motifs from the well-known and popular Harry Potter series, which is an integral part of the lives of many young people and adults too for an ecumenical service of the word." Struck assured that Harry Potter was not replacing Scripture, and that "the sacred character of the service and the dignity of the church interior remain fully preserved." "At the same time, it has been noted that some believers have expressed questions and concerns in connection with the announcement of the service. This feedback is being taken seriously and will be incorporated into the further planning and organization of the service," she added. As in much of Europe, rates of Christianity in Germany have plummeted in recent generations. According to data released last year by the Weltanschauungen research group, 47% of the German population approximately 39 million people now have no religious affiliation at all. Both Protestants and Roman Catholics combined make up 45% of the German population, about 38 million people. Protestant and Roman Catholic churches in Germany each reported losing approximately 580,000 members in 2024 alone, marking the fourth time in recent years that the historically dominant churches in the birthplace of the Protestant Reformation have hemorrhaged more than 1 million members in a single year. During the height of its popularity in the 2000s, many Evangelicals and Catholics alike expressed concern about the occult themes in the Harry Potter series. When he was still a cardinal in 2003, Pope Benedict XVI expressed concern in a private letter that the children's books exhibit "subtle seductions which act unnoticed and by this deeply distort Christianity in the soul, before it can grow properly." Author J.K. Rowling, who has claimed to be Christian but recently acknowledged she may die with a "God-shaped vacuum" in her heart, has claimed her work found inspiration from Christianity by drawing on biblical themes of self-sacrifice and redemption. Home News Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison A Hong Kong court on Monday sentenced pro-democracy media tycoon and religious freedom advocate Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison, the harshest penalty yet handed down under Beijing's national security law in one of the city's most high-profile cases. The 78-year-old Catholic and founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper was convicted in December on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious articles. The charges stem from allegations that he tried to solicit foreign sanctions against China and Hong Kong, as well as content published in his pro-democracy outlet. Three government-vetted judges at the High Court spared Lai the maximum sentence of life imprisonment, The Associated Press reports, adding that Judge Esther Toh said 18 years of the term should run consecutively to Lai's existing nearly six-year sentence for fraud related to a separate lease violation case. Lai, who holds British citizenship, has been in custody for more than five years and has been held mainly in solitary confinement. Lai pleaded not guilty throughout his 156-day trial, testifying for 52 days in his own defense. Prosecutors accused him of conspiring with six former Apple Daily staffers, two activists and others to urge foreign entities including U.S. politicians to impose sanctions or engage in hostile activities against Hong Kong and China. The case highlighted meetings Lai held with American officials before the national security law took effect in 2020. The law, imposed by Beijing following massive pro-democracy protests in 2019, has been used to prosecute dozens of activists, lawmakers and journalists, effectively quelling open dissent in the semi-autonomous Chinese territory. Authorities claimed the law sought to restore stability after sometimes-violent demonstrations. Lai's defense team, including lawyer Robert Pang, argued in mitigation that his client's advanced age, health issues including heart palpitations, high blood pressure and diabetes and prolonged solitary confinement should result in a lighter sentence. Prosecutors countered that Lai had requested solitary confinement for his safety. Co-defendants, including former Apple Daily executives who pleaded guilty and some who testified for the prosecution, received sentences ranging from 6 years and 3 months to 10 years. The sentencing drew swift international condemnation. Rights groups called it a blow to press freedom, with the Committee to Protect Journalists describing it as part of Hong Kong's "biggest media trial." Western leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and British officials, have previously called for Lai's release, viewing his case as emblematic of Beijing's tightening grip on the city. Hong Kong authorities maintain that the prosecution concerns national security, not journalism or free expression. The government has said Lai's actions threatened stability and that the law applies equally without targeting the media. Lai, a self-made billionaire who built a fortune in fashion retail before launching Apple Daily in 1995, long used his platform to criticize the Chinese Communist Party. The newspaper was forced to close in 2021 amid arrests and asset freezes tied to national security probes. Lai can appeal the conviction and sentence. His case has become a geopolitical flashpoint, straining relations between China and Western nations amid broader concerns over Hong Kong's eroding civil liberties. Home News Pastor Jamal Bryant calls for arrest of man who protested inside his church Megachurch Pastor Jamal Bryant called for the arrest of an unidentified man who recently protested in the lobby of his church using what he deemed hate speech and wrath. Bryant, who leads New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, made the call in after the arrest of protesters who disrupted a Sunday service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Jan. 18. Federal authorities accused the activists of violating religious freedoms and the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act of 1994, which prohibits "intentionally injuring, intimidating, or interfering with ... [anyone] seeking to exercise the First Amendment right of religious freedom at a place of religious worship." Speaking on a recent episode of his podcast Lets Be Clear, Bryant called on U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to apply the standard to the unidentified man and his wife, who lashed out at congregants in the lobby of his church while demanding that they repent about two weeks before the protest at the Minnesota church. You need to repent. Your pedophile co-founder is in Hell right now, and you're going to find your way into Hell with him unless you repent," the protester said, referring to the late pastor Eddie Long, who was accused of sexual misconduct by former congregants. "Jamal Bryant, you're a wicked dog, a vile bundle of sticks. You deserve the lake of fire you're going to get when you die. Kids, read the Bible and don't do what that guy says." Bryant criticized Bondi for what he believes is a double standard in the way protests at black churches and white churches are treated. As of Monday, nine people have been arrested in connection with the disruption of the Cities Church service, including former CNN host Don Lemon and civil rights activist and attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong, who heads the Minnesota-based Racial Justice Network and admitted to leading the protest that disrupted the churhch. They were charged, along with the other activists, who protested one of the church's pastors, who leads a local U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in St. Paul. This white evangelical nationalist pastor had the audacity, he, and his wife, to get out of his car, as you just saw, and for propaganda and disturbance, filmed themselves coming into our church using hate speech, condemning us with wrath, judgment, and correction. Completely out of order, Bryant insisted. And since you are against places of worship being disturbed and this gentleman attempted to do it at a black church, I want to know when is the arrest warrant (coming)? he asked. I don't know his name, but that picture should be clear enough for you to be able to track [him] down with the full span of the FBI. Bryant, who is a staunch liberal, contends that the arrest of the anti-ICE protesters was strategic and noted that Armstrong is the one who started the Target boycott over the retail giants rollback of their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. In 2025, Bryant rejected an offer from Target to settle the dispute with a pledge from the company to invest $2 billion into black-owned businesses by July 31 that year. He called Target's DEI rollback a "spit in the face of black people." He said that despite Targets pledge, the company did not honor its commitment to invest in black businesses. She called for accountability for this Fortune 500 company in the city that Target is located in. The same company that is harboring ICE agents who is using their parking lots for them to set up. The same organization that pledged $2 billion and still have not turned over the receipts, the Georgia pastor said. And she's the first one they get arrested. Come on, y'all are playing checkers. They playing chess. Home News New York Times bestselling author Lee Strobel on suffering, the supernatural and 'The Case for Miracles' Quick Summary AI Summary Lee Strobel discusses suffering and the supernatural in his latest project, 'The Case for Miracles.' Strobel's documentary explores whether miracles still occur today. Over 18 million copies of Strobel's books have been sold worldwide. An artificial intelligence-powered tool created this summary based on the source article. The summary has undergone review and verification by an editor. See Summary New York Times bestselling author Lee Strobels journey to his faith in Jesus Christ is well documented. A highly successful editor at The Chicago Tribune, Strobel was an atheist who set out to prove that Christ was nothing more than a solid teacher rather than the Son of God. What he found forever changed his life and the lives of millions who read his book, The Case for Christ. Over the years, this author of more than 25 books, including 11 from his The Case For series, has meticulously researched and investigated many of the claims made in the Bible, only to find them accurate and true each and every time. Strobels latest project is a continuation of his 2018 bestseller The Case for Miracles, a literary work designed to answer an age-old question: Do miracles still happen today? Now available for purchase and streaming, The Case for Miracles is a documentary that takes viewers on a cinematic journey through suffering and ultimately joy to reveal the true essence of Gods design for miracles. There's a hope that comes when we believe that God is capable and willing to be active in our lives even today, 2,000 years after Jesus walked the Earth, says Strobel, whose books have sold more than 18 million copies worldwide. "There is hope, and I believe God will heal all of his children. In the films 147 minutes, Strobel uses his trademark journalistic style to craft a case that challenges skeptics, strengthens believers, and ultimately leads audiences to the ultimate miracle, the Messiahs birth in a stable more than 2,000 years ago and His subsequent resurrection. God took the worst thing that could ever happen in the universe, which is the death of the Son of God on the cross and from that, He produced the best thing that's ever happened in the universe, Strobel explains. That is the opening of Heaven to all who follow Him. So, if He can take the worst thing in the universe, and from that create the best thing, He can heal anyone. We recently sat down with the affably astute Strobel on the "Crossmap Podcast" to discuss the sociological and physiological impact of miracles in our lives, common threads he found in people who have experienced a miracle, and the most spectacular miracle he uncovered while working on this documentary. LISTEN NOW: Home News Nancy Guthries pastor prays for her safe return, for God to soften hearts of kidnappers Pastor John Tittle of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Tucson, Arizona, where Nancy Guthrie, the missing 84-year-old mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has been a member for 30 years, prayed earnestly with his congregation Sunday for her safe return and that God would soften the hearts of her kidnappers. Calm them in the storm. Lord God, bless and guide the authorities in their search for Nancy. Give them wisdom along every step of the path to her, Tittle prayed during the worship service. Lord, we ask that you would soften the hearts of those who are responsible that they might come forward and do what is humane and what is right. [We] pray for mercy, for grace to prevail. The prayer came just hours after Savannah Guthrie and her siblings, Camron and Annie Guthrie, said in a video Saturday that they are willing to pay a ransom for their mothers return as authorities moved into the second week of searching for Nancy Guthrie. "We received your message and we understand," the Today show co-host said in the video shared on Instagram. "We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay." Chris Nanos, the Pima County sheriff, told The New York Times that Guthrie was taken against her will from her home near Tucson, Arizona, sometime between 9:45 p.m. on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1. She had dinner with her daughter Annie and her son-in-law Tommaso Cioni nearby. Cioni told authorities he dropped off his mother-in-law and made sure she made it inside safely before he left. Ransom notes have been shared with media outlets, with the Tucson ABC affiliate KGUN initially reporting on a $6 million demand. The outlet has since removed social media posts mentioning the ransom and has removed the $6 million figure from its online article, the NY Daily News reports. Notes cited by TMZ have set two specific deadlines to pay up. One deadline was set for Thursday, Feb. 5, and a final consequential deadline was set for Monday, Feb. 9, according to TMZ founder Harvey Levin. Tittle said he and his congregation are 110% committed to praying for Nancy Guthries safe return and noted that last Wednesday the church held a very moving prayer vigil on her behalf. If you were able to attend or to see online Wednesday's prayer vigil, what a healing and important time for our community to come together to pray, to ask for mercy and deliverance from a terrible situation. To be in solidarity with Nancy and the family. And just seeing all the candles, hundreds of candles coming up and placed upon the altar was very moving, he said. So, thank you for your prayers. He described the abduction of Nancy Guthrie and the pain being experienced by those who love her as the Valley of the Shadow. We turn to you, Lord, in our hour of need. And we cry out for mercy, Tittle said. God, we pray that out of darkness, light will shine. We pray for Nancys rescue. We pray for her release. We pray that she would be brought safely home. God, we lift up all who are missing, all held captive against their will. Home News Reporter arrested for involvement in Cities Church protest defends her actions A reporter who was arrested on charges of involvement in a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, last month has defended her actions, believing that her arrest is an attack on press freedoms. But authorities maintain her actions were outside the bounds of a journalist's duties. In a guest essay published in The New York Times last week, independent journalist Georgia Fort recounted her experience of being arrested and processed at the Whipple Building in the Minneapolis area. At issue is her alleged involvement in a protest held on Jan. 18 at Cities Church, a Southern Baptist congregation in which protesters stormed a worship service to oppose one of the church's pastors who also serves as a local ICE official. Fort and others were recently charged with Conspiracy Against Right of Religious Freedom at Place of Worship and Injure, Intimidate and Interfere with Exercise of Right of Religious Freedom at Place of Worship. Fort wrote that she was one of the journalists who documented what happened at the church, believing that her arrest was part of a broader attack on the journalism profession. In November alone, three journalists were hit with pepper balls or other less lethal munitions and subjected to chemical agents while covering an ICE arrest in St. Paul, wrote Fort. After the fatal shooting of Renee Good, the independent photographer KingDemetrius Pendleton was tear-gassed by federal agents and was apparently shot with a chemical munitions canister. The Star Tribune video journalist Mark Vancleave was pushed back into his car by federal agents after trying to report on an ICE arrest, which he was covering for The Associated Press. These and other incidents, contends Fort, are part of a pattern of intimidating the press, physically harming reporters who are covering protests and, now, taking legal action against members of the media. A society that claims to value our democracy cannot criminalize those who document threats to democracy. Charges against journalists for doing their jobs must be dropped, she added. Physical harm and intimidation against reporters must carry consequences. If we as a nation fail to defend that principle now, clearly and without compromise, we may soon find that there is nothing left to defend. The federal government argues that the Cities Church protesters violated the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, which includes a provision protecting houses of worship from physical intimidation. The official indictment, filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, claimed that the protesters engaged in a coordinated take-over style attack on the church, which included acts of oppression, intimidation, threats, interference, and physical obstruction. As a result of defendants conduct, the pastor and congregation were forced to terminate the Churchs worship service, congregants fled the Church building out of fear for their safety, other congregants took steps to implement an emergency plan, and young children were left to wonder, as one child put it, if their parents were going to die, claimed the indictment. The indictment alleges that Fort and former CNN anchor Don Lemon met with protest leaders for a pre-op briefing at a shopping center led by defendants Nekima Levy-Armstrong and Chauntyll Allen, which included instruction on how the operation would be conducted once they arrived at the Church. According to prosecutors, protesters interrupted the sermon with loud declarations that included chants like ICE Out! and Stand up, fight back! as well as yells and the blowing of whistles. Authorities say Fort was among those who occupied the church's main aisle and rows of chairs near the front of the sanctuary. Lemon, who attempted to interview Cities Church Pastor Jonathan Parnell right after the protest, defended the demonstration as protected by the First Amendment and argued that he was doing his job as a journalist by covering it. The indictment accuses Lemon of keeping the strategic details of the protest, including its church target, a secret in the hours before the demonstration. The indictment states that Fort, Lemon and one other defendant "approached the pastor and largely surrounded him (to his front and both sides), stood in close proximity to the pastor in an attempt to oppress and intimidate him, and physically obstructed his freedom of movement while [Lemon] peppered him with questions to promote the operation's message." Although the pastor asked the defendants to leave, the indictment says they didn't immediately leave the building. Lemon was also accused of confronting some congregants as they tried to leave the building. Fort and Armstrong were accused of blocking a minivan with children inside from leaving the premises. Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, rejected Lemons claims that the protest was lawful and that the First Amendment legally protected his actions. A house of worship is not a public forum for your protest! Dhillon tweeted. It is a space protected from exactly such acts by federal criminal and civil laws! Nor does the First Amendment protect your pseudo journalism of disrupting a prayer service. Home News Ohio women sue UMC entities, claim they failed to properly respond to grooming, sexual abuse Quick Summary AI Summary Two women have filed a lawsuit against multiple United Methodist Church entities in Ohio. The plaintiffs allege failure to respond to sexual abuse by a former church music director. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages for negligence. An artificial intelligence-powered tool created this summary based on the source article. The summary has undergone review and verification by an editor. See Summary Two women have filed a complaint against multiple United Methodist Church entities, alleging that they failed to appropriately respond to abuse that they experienced from a former church music director. The unnamed plaintiffs are Ohio residents represented by the Orlando, Florida-based Newsome Law, P.A., and the Cleveland, Ohio-based Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP. A Spangenberg representative emailed The Christian Post a copy of the lawsuit, which was filed in the Ohio Court of Common Pleas for Franklin County last week. Defendants named in the complaint include the UMC General Council on Finance and Administration, the UMC West Ohio Conference, the UMC Great Miami River District, Christian UMC of Baltimore, Ohio (formerly known as St. Andrew UMC), Parkview UMC of Plain City, Ohio, and the United Methodist Childrens Home, also called UMCH Family Services. According to the complaint, Jane Doe and Mary Doe were abused as minors by an individual named John Slate, described as a former cult member living in Venezuela, who served as music ministries director at the two churches. Slate was convicted of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor and pandering obscenity involving a minor in 2017. In 2019, he was again convicted of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Slate groomed and repeatedly sexually assaulted Jane Doe and Mary Doe over the course of years even though Defendants were on actual and constructive notice of Slates inappropriate relationship with these young girls, the suit alleged. Defendants are liable to Plaintiffs for failing to prevent and stop sexual abuse of which they had actual and/or constructive knowledge; for authorizing, condoning, ratifying, and encouraging policies and practices that permitted abuse; and for creating and maintaining a culture and conditions at St. Andrew and Parkview that enabled Slate to repeatedly abuse Plaintiffs. The UMC West Ohio Conference emailed CP a statement on Thursday confirming that they were informed late Tuesday that a lawsuit had been filed. We take seriously any complaints of this nature and are looking into the matter, stated the UMC regional body. Our prayers are with all involved. According to the suit, in 2014, when Slate was working for St. Andrew UMC, Jane Does parents had alerted the pastor that Slate had been sexually grooming, assaulting, and abusing their daughter. However, according to the complaint, Defendants did not report Slates crime to the police and did not follow the Safe Sanctuaries Protocol of the United Methodist Church. Despite having notice, Defendants allowed Slate to remain employed at the St. Andrew United Methodist Church as their Music Director and to continue having contact with minors and even protected him by transferring Slate to Parkview, alleged the suit. Instead, Defendants conscious disregard for child safety allowed a known child predator to move to another United Methodist Church, Parkview Church, where he sexually assault Mary Doe and continued to sexually assault Jane Doe. The lawsuit accuses the various UMC entities of negligence and failure to report suspected abuse of a minor, and demands compensatory damages, punitive and/or exemplary damages; attorneys fees and similar costs, as well as all such other relief to which the Plaintiffs are entitled and/or the Court deems equitable. Dustin Herman, a partner at Spangenberg who is helping to represent the women, told CP on Friday that he took up the case because there was an injustice done and our clients are looking to get justice from those accountable. Home Opinion Compassion and justice arent enemies: Responding to Minneapolis biblically Minneapolis feels like a city stuck on repeat. If youve lived here, watched the news, or even followed it from a distance over the last few years, youve seen the cycle. Lawlessness is tolerated, sometimes openly excused, until it spills over into real chaos. Businesses are destroyed. People are hurt or killed. Then, finally, authorities step in to restore order. And the moment they do, activists flood the streets, obstruct law enforcement, and insist that the reassertion of law itself is violence. Thats where Christians are told they have to choose. Not between justice and injustice, but between biblical compassion and a counterfeit version that borrows Christian language while quietly rejecting Christian moral order. Most believers I talk to arent trying to be naive. Theyre genuinely confused. They hear love the immigrant, stand with the oppressed, Jesus would oppose the law, and they dont want to be hard-hearted or cruel. That instinct can be right (sometimes, when the desire to not be cruel isnt a cloak for the fear of man). Scripture really does command love for the stranger. The question isnt whether we love. Its how Scripture defines love, and who is responsible for what. The current unrest in Minneapolis didnt come out of nowhere. It followed years of political decisions that created a permissive environment for mass fraud, corruption, and crime. Millions of taxpayer dollars were siphoned off through sham nonprofits and fraudulent schemes (Somali daycares, for one example). Local conservative churches were harassed. Laws were selectively enforced. Criminal activity was excused (if not encouraged by state government) in the name of empathy. Now federal investigations are catching up. And federal authorities are doing precisely what the federal government exists to do: enforce immigration law and remove criminals who have no legal right to remain in the country. That was always going to trigger resistance. And right on cue, the same far-left coalition appears: ideological activists, professionalagitators, and organizations that thrive on disruption, aided by the mainstream media. They obstruct law enforcement, provoke confrontation, and then frame the inevitable response as oppression. The result is death, destruction, and a destabilized city again. Into that chaos comes the familiar progressive Christian refrain: Stand with the immigrant. Lead with empathy. Jesus would oppose this. The implication is unmistakable. If you support immigration enforcement, youre unloving. If you oppose riots or obstruction, youre complicit in injustice. But that framing only works if you detach biblical language from biblical context. Yes, Scripture commands love for the sojourner. Over and over. Gods people are told to show kindness, hospitality, and mercy to the stranger (Leviticus 19:34). When immigrants cross our paths personally, we are obligated to treat them as image-bearers of God: feed the hungry, clothe the naked, preach the Gospel, defend the innocent. But heres the loud part that gets quietly dropped: those commands are given to individuals and the Church not to the civil magistrate. The Bible never tells the state to abandon law in the name of sentiment. In fact, it says the opposite. Romans 13 could not be clearer, and progressive Christianity has spent years trying to soften or sidestep it. Paul writes: Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out Gods wrath on the wrongdoer. That line alone should stop the conversation in its tracks. Paul does not describe the governing authority as a therapeutic presence, a feelings-based mediator, or a symbolic ally of the marginalized. He calls the state Gods servant, and not in a sentimental sense. The government is meant to be, in Pauls words, a terror to bad conduct. Thats uncomfortable language for modern ears, but Scripture does not apologize for it. The fear of lawful punishment is not evil. It is one of the ways God restrains evil in a fallen world. And notice something else. Paul does not say the government is Gods servant when it agrees with you politically, or only when it behaves perfectly. He grounds its authority in Gods ordering of society itself. That doesnt excuse corruption or brutality (Scripture condemns unjust rulers repeatedly), but it does mean Christians are not free to redefine law enforcement as inherently unloving simply because enforcement feels harsh. Justice and love are not opposites in the Bible. They are married. This is where a basic Christian moral principle helps untangle the confusion: love must be ordered. The tradition calls it the ordo amoris the order of loves. Scripture assumes this everywhere. A man who neglects his own household is condemned (1 Timothy 5:8). Elders are accountable first for the flock entrusted to them (1 Peter 5:2). Kings are judged by how they protect their people and restrain violence within their borders (Jeremiah 22:3). That doesnt eliminate concern for outsiders. It structures it. When political movements demand that Christians ignore crime, excuse fraud, and accept the collapse of their own communities in the name of abstract empathy, they are not appealing to biblical love. They are inverting it. Love that refuses to prioritize responsibility becomes cruelty dressed up as virtue. This inversion is not accidental. It has a history. Marxist movements in the 20th century were explicit about using moral language as a revolutionary tool. Lenin wrote that morality was not an objective good but a weapon, something defined entirely by what advanced the revolution. Mao spoke openly about protracted struggle and the necessity of chaos to weaken existing structures. Herbert Marcuse later argued that liberating tolerance required suppressing certain voices and empowering others, not based on truth, but on political usefulness. The strategy was always the same: identify real grievances, amplify them, detach them from moral limits, and weaponize compassion to destabilize institutions. We saw this clearly in 2020. Black Lives Matter did not simply protest police misconduct. It deliberately put law enforcement into no-win situations. Officers were baited, surrounded, obstructed, and filmed, hoping for a reaction that could be broadcast as proof of systemic evil. Riots were justified as the language of the unheard. Cities burned. Businesses, often, ironically, minority-owned, were destroyed. And Christians were told that condemning the chaos meant siding with oppression. Minneapolis lived that reality. What were seeing now follows the same playbook. Obstruct law enforcement. Provoke confrontation. Frame any response as brutality. Flood social media with moral outrage. Pressure churches to bless the narrative or be branded unfaithful. The goal is not reform. Its destabilization. And Scripture gives Christians no permission to baptize that. John the Baptist is instructive here. When soldiers asked him what repentance looked like, he didnt tell them to quit enforcing the law. He said, Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be content with your wages (Luke 3:14). In other words: act justly within your role. Jesus himself acknowledged the legitimacy of civil authority even under pagan Rome. He condemned hypocrisy and corruption, not the existence of law. A state that refuses to enforce its own laws does not become compassionate. It becomes cruel. When law collapses, the vulnerable suffer first. The poor cannot flee chaos. Families lose safety. Trust evaporates. Criminals thrive. Scripture consistently condemns rulers who tolerate violence and corruption, not for lacking empathy, but for failing justice. Paul tells Christians to pray for rulers that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way (1 Timothy 2:2). That peace does not come from permissiveness. It comes from order. Minneapolis is not suffering because the law is being enforced. It is suffering because the law was abandoned for years and is now being reasserted amid ideological resistance. That resistance is not righteous anger. It is defiance rooted in a political theology that sees chaos as a tool. Christians do not have to choose between mercy and order. We can love immigrants personally while insisting on lawful borders nationally. We can oppose abuse of power without opposing the existence of authority. We can reject racial scapegoating while acknowledging real corruption. We can refuse revolutionary chaos without becoming hard-hearted. That is not compromise. It is biblical clarity. The Bible never pits compassion against justice. It orders them. And when that order is restored, the Church can preach repentance and grace, the state can punish evil and reward good, and Christians can stop being manipulated by moral language designed to pull them into someone elses revolution. That discernment is not optional anymore. Its the moment were in. NSPCC team members on Number Day. Credit: NSPCC What form does the campaign take, and how does it raise funds? Number Day is a school-focused fundraising and awareness campaign organised by the NSPCC. Each year, on the first Friday of February, we engage thousands of nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools across the UK, encouraging teachers to bring maths to life through numeracy-themed fun and creative activities. Children take part in games such as dress up for digits in which theyre encouraged to wear a number or make a number-themed costume, while parents are invited to donate in support of the charitys work. By Adobe/ tashatuvango A deaf charity that has operated for 150 years has announced that it will close over the next few months, despite fundraising efforts by a service user to keep it open. Northamptonshire-based Deafconnect has provided support, education, and advocacy for local people who are deaf and hard of hearing since 1874. However, trustee Mark Symmonds told the BBC last week that Deafconnect was no longer viable due to a lack of funds and that the charitys decision to close had been taken with a very heavy heart. He said that support services and group sessions would continue until 13 March; interpreting booking services will continue until 14 July, and hire bookings of the Spencer Dallington Community Centre in Northampton, which is run by the charity, will continue until 31 July. Difficult financial situation The charity first announced its formal closure in January in a post on Facebook . Its board of trustees cited a difficult financial situation for the closure. According to DeafConnects most recently filed accounts, it reported a total annual income of 353,000 for the financial year ending 31 March 2025 versus a total annual expenditure of 406,000. The charity employed an average number of 13 employees in 2024-25, the same figure as the year before. In its social media post, the charity said it was seeking to explore all options for the future delivery of deaf community services. This includes discussion about whether the services might be delivered, in the future, by a new organisation, subject to all appropriate agreements and approvals, it added. Online petition In response to this announcement, an online petition on GoFundMe was subsequently set up by service user Jake Holland to try and save the charity. The petition, which had an initial target of 9,000, raised around 2,000 prior to the closure announcement. Holland told the BBC: Knowing that there is no-one there to go to, as my family are all deaf, [means] Deafconnect is my lifeline really. Deafconnect helped us to be our own person and stand up for our own rights. Carers charity also announces closure Separately, a charity that supports unpaid carers also recently announced that it would be closing on 31 March due to significant funding challenges. Carer Support Wiltshire, which had operated for 15 years, said it was closing as the charity had no viable options left for it to operate in a sustainable way. Nigel Sully, the charitys chair, told the BBC : This has been the hardest decision the board has ever had to make. We know how much these services have meant to unpaid carers. We are deeply saddened that, despite every effort, we can no longer continue this work. According to the charitys most recently filed accounts for the year ending 31 March 2025, its total income from government contracts dropped to 287,000 from 1.5m the year before. Total income from government grants also decreased to 3,000 from over 96,000 in 2023-24. The charity employed 18 full-time equivalent employees in 2024-25, down from 39 the year before. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, By Elroi/Adobe Three-quarters of charities oppose the governments plans to link volunteering to settlement in the UK, according to a new survey by NCVO. Last year, home secretary Shabana Mahmood announced proposals to introduce a volunteering test for migrants applying for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. Mahmoods announcement drew criticism and concern from hundreds of charities, which said they would refuse to comply with her immoral and impractical plan. To understand the real-world impact of the proposals, NCVO surveyed over 300 voluntary sector organisations between December and January. Some 75% of respondents opposed the proposals, saying they would undermine voluntary action, place unsustainable burdens on charities and create safeguarding and exploitation risks. Charities were clear that linking volunteering to settlement would be unworkable and harmful, NCVO said in its report on the proposals published this month. The evidence shows the proposal is unnecessary: people already want to volunteer. The barriers are practical and structural, not a lack of motivation. Policy undermines volunteering principle NCVOs report says the policy risks undermining the core principle that volunteering must be freely chosen and reducing the quality of volunteering. Respondents fear that pressure-driven volunteering could result in short-term, tick-box placements, lower engagement and retention and volunteers moving roles to accumulate hours. This undermines the meaningful relationships and community benefits volunteering provides, the report says. If settlement prospects depend on volunteering, people may accept unsafe or exploitative placements from bad actors. Without clear definitions, unpaid labour could be misused. Participants compared risks to exploitation seen in some visa sponsorship schemes. Respondents pointed out that volunteering isnt free and they would have to shoulder any extra costs, at a time when many face funding pressures. They cited burdens such as reporting and verification requirements, processing DBS checks and providing language support. Some warned they might have to reduce volunteering opportunities for asylum seekers or divert resources from services to manage compliance. Proposals clash with covenants principles Respondents criticised the fact that the governments policy and consultation , which closes on 12 February, were announced before engagement with the sector. NCVOs report says this is contrary to commitments to early engagement and co-production set out in the Civil Society Covenant , published last year, with an aim to reset the sectors relationship with government. Organisations fear being expected to monitor and report volunteers to the Home Office, positioning them as extensions of immigration enforcement without consent or resources, it says. This threatens sector independence and damages trust with communities, particularly as in many organisations, volunteer managers are volunteers themselves. Voluntary organisations felt the proposals assume charities will absorb enforcement responsibilities without regard for organisational missions or values, risking damage to relationships with communities. Respondents called the policy unnecessary, as migrant and refugee volunteers already actively seek volunteering opportunities. They argued that the obstacles to volunteering lie in instability, bureaucracy and safeguarding requirements rather than a lack of willingness. Full consultation response NCVOs consultation response in full reads: Volunteering is, by definition, freely given. Tying it to settlement undermines its spirit, distorts its purpose, and risks damaging public trust. The policy places new financial and administrative pressures on charities already under strain. Organisations raised concerns about heavier reporting requirements, verifying volunteering hours, complex DBS checks for people without UK documentation and the need for language support and trauma-informed supervision. Volunteering isnt cost-neutral and voluntary organisations are unable to absorb these pressures. Case-studies from civil society organisations show that many refugees and migrants are already volunteering. For those who arent, the barriers are often structural, linked to instability, lack of resources, mental health and discrimination. These proposals dont remove these barriers but do open the door for bad actors looking to exploit vulnerable people for profit. The approach was announced without prior engagement with the sector, undermining the partnership principles of the Civil Society Covenant. The covenant commits government and civil society to work together to create the conditions for active participation. A Home Office spokesperson told Civil Society: Well always welcome those who make a positive contribution to our country, because settlement in the UK has long been seen as a privilege rather than a right. While the standard period migrants must spend here before qualifying for settlement will rise from five to 10 years, individuals may shorten this through contributions to our economy and society. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, A federal judge in Missouri last week dismissed a lawsuit by the Republican-led state accusing Starbucks of using its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as a pretext to systematically discriminate based on race, gender and sexual orientation. U.S. District Judge John Ross in St. Louis said the states case failed to prove that Starbucks actually discriminated against even a single Missouri resident who worked at Starbucks or applied for a job there. Ross was appointed by then-President Barack Obama, a Democrat. The office of Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, a Republican, alleged that Starbucks had unlawfully tied executive pay to the companys achieving racial and gender-based hiring quotas. The lawsuit was filed by Hanaways predecessor, Andrew Bailey, before he joined the Trump administration as co-deputy director of the FBI. The lawsuit also accused Starbucks of singling out preferred groups for additional training and job advancement prospects, and employing a quota system to ensure its own board of directors had a variety of racial and ethnic backgrounds. Starbucks and Hanaways office did not immediately respond to requests for comments. President Donald Trump, also a Republican, has tried to shut down policies promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the federal government, schools and the private sector. Companies including Goldman Sachs, Google, Amazon.com, and Target have publicly scrapped programs, though some have maintained efforts behind the scenes. Missouris lawsuit challenged Starbucks policies adopted since 2020, after the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer triggered unrest nationwide and led many companies to rethink employment practices. Starbucks employs more than 200,000 people in the U.S. and 360,000 people worldwide. In 2023, a federal judge in Spokane, Washington dismissed a shareholder lawsuit challenging Starbucks diversity policies, saying the case addressed public policy questions best decided by lawmakers and companies, not courts. Missouris lawsuit sought to force Starbucks to end alleged discrimination based on race, gender and national origin, rehire and rescind discipline against employees affected by discrimination, and pay unspecified damages. (Reporting by Wiessner in Albany, New York and Knauth in New York, New York; Editing by Sonali Paul) A New York man has been arrested and charged for allegedly conspiring to use hacked email accounts of legitimate truck-load carriers to book cargo with shippers and selling the items for illicit profit. Forbes was arrested on Feb. 5 in Long Island, N.Y. and will make his initial appearance in the Eastern District of New York. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent with the Boston office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, made the announcement. Cargo Theft Losses Surge A rise in criminals targeting high-value freight theft is pushing losses higher, according to Verisk CargoNet analysis. Estimated losses surged 60% from 2024 numbers to nearly $725 million, while confirmed cargo theft incidents increased 18%. The average theft value rose to $273,990, up 36% from $202,364 in 2024, driven by more selective, high-value targeting by organized groups, the cargo theft monitoring company showed. In a separate freight cargo theft case reported in December that is still under investigation, a shipment of lobster meat worth $400,000 that was being held in a Taunton, Massachusetts cold storage facility was apparently stolen by a person posing as a truck driver for a legitimate freight carrier. Prior to that alleged heist, police said a shipment of crabmeat was stole from the same storage facility 10 days earlier The details contained in the charging documents are allegations and Forbes is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law. Related: Freight Broker Says $400K in Lobster Meat Stolen in Fictitious Pickup According to the charging documents, on July 15, 2025, Forbes allegedly stole 33,750 pounds of frozen snow crabs worth $325,000 from a warehouse in Worcester, Mass. Prior to the theft, a co-conspirator allegedly hacked into the email account of a trucking carrier company. The co-conspirator, pretending to work for that carrier, and using the carriers email account, allegedly contracted with a transportation business to ship the goods to a customer in Jacksonville, Fla. Related: Hackers and Crime Rings Teaming up to Steal Cargo, Cyber Firm Says Forbes then allegedly arrived at the warehouse in Worcester pretending to work for the carrier, loaded the seafood into his truck, and drove off. Prosecutors say that instead of delivering the seafood to the customer in Florida, Forbes allegedly transported it to a grocery store business in Queens, N.Y., where he took a picture of the pallets of packaged crabs. Prosecutors claim that before the alleged seafood heist, following similar procedures and working with a co-conspirator, Forbes allegedly stole a shipment of blueberries in Winslow Junction, N.J. in June and a month later allegedly stole approximately $433,830 worth of cologne in Ronkonkama, N.Y. Prosecutors claim that instead of delivering the blueberries to the purported customer in Illinois, Forbes allegedly arranged to illicitly sell the fruit to his phone contact that he called, My customer for everything. Also, according to prosecutors, instead of delivering the fragrances to the supposed customer in California, Forbes allegedly contacted his customer for everything offering to sell the cologne and sent the contact a video of the cologne, to which the contact replied, Ok. Top Photo: U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts supplied photo of alleged cargo theft operation. The U.K., Ireland and the Netherlands joined a wave of European nations issuing recalls of Danone SA infant formula as the French companys exposure to the contamination crisis deepens. Some batches of Danones Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula brands will be taken off shelves in the U.K. and Ireland, according to statements on Friday from food safety agencies there. Dutch authorities said some Nutrilon products will be pulled over concerns they are contaminated with the toxin cereulide. It comes after Austria, Germany, France and Switzerland announced recallsadding up to hundreds of batcheson Thursday. AFP reported that recalls are under way in Romania, Hungary and Poland too. Related: US Will Test Infant Formula to See If Botulism Is Wider Risk The recalls are the largest yet for Danone and could be a bigger financial hit than previously expected. Bloomberg Intelligences Duncan Fox increased the estimated cost of recalls to 300 million ($355 million) from 50 million. Danones expanding baby-food recall in Europe now points to a materially larger sales hit than we initially expected, Fox wrote. That would bring the hit closer to 1.3% of revenue seen in Nestles recall. The growing global formula contamination crisis has also ensnared Nestle SA and Groupe Lactalis. More callbacks were expected after European food safety authorities recommended new lower toxin levels for European nations earlier this week. Precautionary Danone began recalling select batches of product in mid-January, starting in Singapore. The company later issued another larger recall following a change in toxin guidance from Irish food safety authorities. In a statement, Danone said it initiated a precautionary recall process of specific batches of products on January 23rd and we have implemented additional ingredient controls. It didnt specifically mention the latest recalls in the different European countries. Related: Two Companies Made Dried Milk Powder Linked to Botulism in Baby Formula The contamination originated from arachidonic acid oil, which is often added to infant formula. While no company has stated the source of the contamination, the supplier has since been identified as Chinas Cabio Biotech Wuhan Co. Nestle first discovered the potential contamination of formula batches with cereulide which causes vomiting and diarrhea and alerted trade groups in December. Related: Target, Walmart, Whole Foods Targeted in Botulism Suits More than 60 countries are now recalling products and French authorities are still investigating a possible link between Nestles Guigoz formula and the deaths of two babies. UK health authorities said Thursday that 36 babies may have become ill after consuming contaminated formula. No children have died in the U.K. While baby formula is a tightly regulated industry, it has faced contamination scares, factory shutdowns and supply shocks in recent years issues that led to the 2022 US shortage tied to Abbott Laboratories. U.S. investigators plan to test certain dairy-based ingredients used in a wide variety of baby formulas for spores that can cause infant botulism, in the wake of the ByHeart recall last year that was connected to 51 infant hospitalizations. Top photo: Bottles of Danone SA Aptamil formula baby milk. Photographer: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg. Copyright 2026 Bloomberg. Novo Nordisk A/S said its suing Hims & Hers Health Inc. for making knock-offs of its obesity medicines, even as Hims scrapped plans to sell a copycat version of the Wegovy pill. Hims is breaching the U.S. patent on semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novos blockbuster obesity treatments, Novo argued Monday. The U.S. lawsuit attacks not only Himss new strategy to launch a copycat pill but also goes after shots that mimic Wegovy and its sister drug Ozempic. The move marks a more aggressive approach for Novo under Chief Executive Officer Mike Doustdar. Until now, the drugmakers legal strategy focused on the way that companies like Hims market their products. Novo said its the first time it has sued over patent infringement for compounded semaglutide. The decision escalates Novos spat with Hims despite the U.S. platforms retreat on Saturday, when it said it would stop offering cheaper versions of the new Wegovy pill meant to fuel the Danish drugmakers comeback. The Hims decision to launch a knock-off Wegovy pill was a step too far, John Kuckelman, general counsel at Novo, said in an interview. Last weeks announcement was egregious and it was definitely a tipping point. The two companies scrapped a partnership last year and their relationship has grown increasingly acrimonious. Novo said its medicines are produced in accordance with FDA requirements, following strict safety controls, in contrast to the Hims ones. The Novo lawsuit is a blatant attack by a Danish company on millions of Americans who rely on compounded medications for access to personalized care, Hims said in a statement. Once again, Big Pharma is weaponizing the U.S. judicial system to limit consumer choice. The company pledged to fight to provide choice, affordability, and access. Hims shares fell 21% in trading before U.S. exchanges opened. Novo surged as much as 9% on Monday after Hims scrapped the Wegovy pill copycats. It pared gains after the lawsuit was announced. Patient Health Hims has engaged in promotional campaigns that highlight its compounded semaglutide products, duping consumers and health-care professionals as to the clinical benefits and safety of these unapproved drugs, Novo said in a statement. The knock-offs, it argued, are putting patient health and wellbeing at risk. The lawsuit, which Novo said it filed in Delaware, alleges that Hims products including its weight-loss injections are compounded forms of semaglutide and therefore infringe on Novos patent. Hims had knowledge of the patent, which has been infringed since 2024, Novo argues. The company is seeking damages for what Kuckelman described as reasonable royalties and lost profit. The drugmaker said it had sent a letter to Hims on Feb. 8 raising the infringement and demanding the telehealth company cease producing these products. The lawsuit follows a turbulent week for Novo. First it issued a dire sales forecast for the year in contrast to rival Eli Lilly & Co., then the stock was hit by the news that Hims was selling a cheaper knock-off of its crucial new Wegovy pill. Supply Shortage Hims abandoned the plan over the weekend following U.S. government threats. The decision didnt stop Novo from launching the case, whose scope extends beyond the pill to all uses of semaglutide, which is also injected. Novo has seen its market capitalization fall from more than $600 billion in 2024, when it was briefly the most valuable company in Europe, to about $227 billion. The makers of blockbuster GLP-1 drugs, Novo and Lilly, have long complained the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasnt done enough to stop the proliferation of cheap, compounded weight-loss drugs. Telehealth companies were first able to sell knock-off obesity medicines during a supply shortage a few years ago. The shortage has ended, but the practice has continued. We believe its a complete sham that they say so many patients need personalized compounding of semaglutide post shortage, Kuckelman said. Novo is trying to work with compounders to get them to sell the branded products, according to Kuckelman. But unfortunately, you have Hims, which is a very big player, who rather than doing the right thing, theyve just decided that theyre above the law and they can continue to sort of thumb their nose at the FDA and other regulators, he said. The FDA on Friday pledged to act against copycat weight-loss drugs. The Department of Health and Human Services also said it referred Hims to the Department of Justice for possible violations of federal law. The FDAs firmer stance comes after Novo and Lilly agreed to cut prices in deals with the U.S. government. Top photo: A box of Wegovy pills arranged at a pharmacy. Photographer: George Frey/Bloomberg. Copyright 2026 Bloomberg. Big Tech's spending plans are spooking investors as of late, but these plans could also signal a buying opportunity, according to Canaccord Genuity. Stocks sold off last week as the latest quarterly reports from Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Amazon and Alphabet revealed stepped up capital expenditure plans that revived worries about the spending if artificial intelligence fails to become profitable. Here is Canaccord Genuity's breakdown of the hyperscalers' latest spending plans: Microsoft 's capex is expected to rise to $123 billion in 2026, up from $83 billion last year Meta to $125 billion, up from $72 billion Amazon to $155 billion, up from $125 billion Alphabet to $185 billion, up from $92 billion Together capital expenditures could reach $588 billion, or roughly 2% of expected U.S. gross domestic product in 2026, the firm said. Amazon stock has tumbled about 12% so far this month. Microsoft and Alphabet are down more than 3%, each over the same period, while Meta has slid around 5%. The pullback could represent a buying opportunity in the megacaps so long as the companies' growth profiles remain attractive, according to Michael Graham, analyst at Canaccord Genuity. "All of these companies will spend anywhere from 3-6x on capex this year compared with 2023, and these spending projections are set to amount to ~2.1% of US GDP in 2026 in those terms, the largest infrastructure project in US history and just barely behind the Louisiana Purchase at ~3% (according to the WSJ)," Graham wrote in Monday note. "Historically, selloffs around spending plans have been good times to step into these names as long as growth is there," Graham added. A number of the names have been punished recently despite reporting strong quarterly growth. Alphabet showed Google Cloud revenue growth accelerating to 48%, from 34% the prior quarter, on a year-over-year basis. Amazon Web Services revenue jumped 24% on a yearly basis, up from 20% the prior quarter. To be sure, spending will continue to remain a concern for investors. While the megacaps have massive cash reserves to fund their infrastructure build-outs, they've also started tapping debt markets to fund these projects meaning investors will have to start monitoring how leverage is managed. Alphabet is looking to raise about $15 billion from a U.S. high-grade dollar bond sale, according to a Bloomberg report Monday citing people familiar with the plans. In October, Meta issued $30 billion in investment-grade debt to fund its data center build-out. Graham wrote, "it remains to be seen whether this spending wall might just be too high." The overall market outlook outside of tech remains constructive. Graham pointed out that the S & P 500 breached support at its 50-day, 100-day moving averages last week, as well as support near 6,800, but the index managed to reclaim those levels by Friday. Meanwhile, the equal-weighted S & P 500 outperformed, while cyclicals and small caps continued to rise on the rotation out of tech. Aerial view of Jose Marti International Airport in Havana, taken from an airplane on April 3, 2025. The Cuban government said international airlines can no longer refuel in the island nation due to fuel shortages after President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any country that supplies the communist country with oil. Cuba's leadership said Sunday that the country will run out of aviation fuel from Monday, likely disrupting airlines operating there, according to EFE news agency, which cited two sources. The kerosene shortage is expected to persist for the next month, with all of Cuba's international airports affected. Cuba's Foreign Ministry and the Cuban Embassy in London did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment. The Trump administration has sought to tighten the U.S. chokehold on Cuba since Jan. 3, when it conducted an audacious military operation to depose Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a longtime ally of Cuba's government. Trump, in an executive order issued at the end of January, said the Cuban government constituted "an unusual and extraordinary threat," which required a national emergency declaration. Databricks said Monday it has raised $5 billion in funding and $2 billion in new debt capacity at a $134 billion valuation. The privately held data analytics software company also said that its annualized revenue exceeded $5.4 billion for the January quarter, up 65% year over year, while delivering free cash flow over the past year. That type of performance might whet the appetites of public market investors, who have not seen many new issuances of technology companies with high growth rates. Databricks is prepared to go public "when the time is right," co-founder and CEO Ali Ghodsi told CNBC in an interview. This year is shaping up to potentially feature notable tech IPOs. Fast-growing artificial intelligence labs Anthropic and OpenAI are also considering 2026 initial public offerings, according to people familiar with the matter. Elon Musk said in December that his rocket company SpaceX could also go public this year. Like many other companies, Databricks is generating revenue from AI. The company helps its clients connect their data with AI models to launch custom agents, in addition to providing tools for storing, processing and querying data. AI products now generate $1.4 billion in annualized revenue, Databricks said in a statement. The pace of Databricks' overall expansion is accelerating in June, the company forecast 50% growth. The company said in December that it was raising more than $4 billion in the round at a valuation of $134 billion. "We weren't sure we're going to actually be able to raise all of the five," said Ghodsi, adding that there was heavy interest in recent weeks. He said it can take months for venture capital to reflect major changes in equity markets. Goldman Sachs, Glade Brook Capital, Morgan Stanley, Neuberger Berman and the Qatar Investment Authority are among the investors in the new round. JPMorgan led the debt round, and now Databricks has billions in cash on hand. "If this correction hasn't bottomed out yet, and it's just going to continue, we're just going to continue as a private company," Ghodsi said. Databricks is now larger than rival Snowflake , which reported $1.21 billion in revenue in the October quarter. Snowflake's market cap stands at about $58 billion. With the wide release of its Lakebase database last week, Databricks has expanded its market, challenging incumbents such as Oracle and SAP . Oracle and Snowflake shares both fell about 13% last week as software stocks took a step down across the market. That happened due to investors worrying that open-source plugins for Anthropic's Claude Cowork AI-powered productivity tool might pose new competitive challenges for public software companies. "The correction is an overreaction, and you're going to see all these companies be around, and nobody's getting rid of them anytime soon," Ghodsi said. "Their moat is shrinking." Founded in 2013, Databricks ranked No. 3 on CNBC's 2025 Disruptor 50 list. CNBC's Ashley Capoot contributed to this report. WATCH: Trading the tech takedown with Altimeter's Brad Gerstner The European Commission has told Meta it intends to impose "interim measures" to stop the tech giant from excluding third-party AI assistants from WhatsApp. On Monday, the EU informed the company that its preliminary view was that it had "breached" EU antitrust rules. The investigation is still ongoing, and measures are subject to Meta's reply and rights of defense, the Commission said. The bloc's Commissioner for Competition, Teresa Ribera, said it would prevent "dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage" to protect "effective competition." "AI markets are developing at rapid pace, so we also need to be swift in our action. That is why we are considering quickly imposing interim measures on Meta, to preserve access for competitors to WhatsApp, while the investigation is ongoing, and avoid Meta's new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe," she added. In October, Meta announced an update to its WhatsApp Business Solution Terms, "effectively" banning third-party general-purpose AI assistants from the application, the Commission said. The policy came into effect in January. A Commission spokesperson told CNBC that interim measures would involve it asking Meta to maintain third-party AI assistants' access to WhatsApp under the terms before the policy change, while its investigation. "The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene in the WhatsApp Business API," a Meta spokesperson said. "There are many AI options and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships. The Commission's logic incorrectly assumes the WhatsApp Business API is a key distribution channel for these chatbots," they added. U.S. big tech companies were hit with a slew of fines in 2025 for breaching EU rules. In April, Apple was fined 500 million euros after being found to have breached anti-steering obligations. The same month, Meta was hit with a 200 million euros fine for breaching obligations to give consumers the choice of a service that uses less of their personal data. In September, the Commission fined Google 2.95 billion euros for breaching antitrust rules around online advertising. Our top 10 things to watch Monday, Feb. 9 1. The S & P 500 is headed for a relatively muted open on Monday following Friday's huge rally. Bitcoin pulled back slightly after rebounding above $70,000. 2. Melius Research downgraded Club holding Microsoft to a hold from buy in a critical piece. Analysts say that CEO Satya Nadella has "lost the AI narrative" and that the stock is too expensive based on the company's new free cash flow estimates. 3. Shares of Club name Eli Lilly and rival Novo Nordisk jumped in premarket trading after Hims & Hers said Saturday that the company will not sell its copycat weight-loss pill following FDA scrutiny and a lawsuit from Novo. Eli Lilly also announced that it's buying biotech Orna Therapeutics for up to $2.4 billion. 4. Kroger stock advanced nearly 7% in the premarket after The Wall Street Journal reported that the grocery store giant is preparing to announce ex- Walmart executive Greg Foran as its new CEO. Foran was most recently the CEO of Air New Zealand . Prior to that, he served as CEO of Walmart's U.S. division for six years. 5. D.A. Davidson upgraded Oracle to a buy from a hold, with an $180 price target. The analysts said the market reflects risks in its OpenAI relationship, adding that OpenAI is capable of meeting its obligations to Oracle based on recent funding talks. 6. Cleveland-Cliffs ' stock dropped nearly 4% this morning after the company missed fourth-quarter revenue and adjusted EBITDA estimates. 7. Monday.com shares fell by more than 10% this morning after the first-quarter and full-year revenue forecasts missed the Street's estimates. It will be interesting to see if this drags the entire group lower or if there is some separation. 8. JPMorgan nudged up price targets on a bunch of banks. Bank of America was lifted to $61.5 from $61. Citi was raised to $134 from $130 apiece. Wells Fargo 's PT went to $99.5 from $99. The analysts liked the group as beneficiaries of sector rotation, solid economic trends, and steady fundamentals. Of that group, we own Wells Fargo. Our other bank names are Goldman Sachs and Capital One . 9. There was a big weekend feature in The Wall Street Journal on Club name Corning and its rise to become an "AI superstar." Shares were up nearly 2% premarket. 10. Robinhood was upgraded to buy from hold at Wolfe Research following its recent pullback. The stock took a hit amid a major sell-off in the cryptocurrency market. Sign up for my Top 10 Morning Thoughts on the Market email newsletter for free (See here for a full list of the stocks at Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. TOPSHOT - Media tycoon Jimmy Lai (R) is escorted into a Hong Kong Correctional Services van outside the Court of Final Appeal in Hong Kong on February 1, 2021, after being ordered to remain in jail while judges consider his fresh bail application, the first major legal challenge to a sweeping national security law Beijing imposed on the city last year. Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai on Monday was sentenced to 20 years in prison in one of the most prominent prosecutions under a China-imposed national security law that has reshaped the city's political landscape since 2020. "Having stepped back and taking a global view of the total sentence for Lai's serious and grave criminal conduct ... we are satisfied that the total sentence for Lai in the present case should be 20 years' imprisonment," the city's High Court said in its ruling. Lai, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was convicted in December for collusion with foreign forces, endangering national security, and conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The 78-year-old has been in detention for more than five years while serving a separate prison term on fraud charges. The 20-year sentence was the longest handed out under the national security law introduced in 2020, surpassing the 10-year term given to activist Benny Tai, a former law professor who was convicted of conspiring to subvert state power, in November 2024. "A sentence of this magnitude is both cruel and profoundly unjust," said Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. Lai was among the first prominent figures arrested in August 2020 under the security law that Beijing implemented in the Chinese special administrative region, following widespread pro-democracy protests in 2019. The newspaper ceased operations in June 2021 after police arrested more company employees and froze its assets, ending a 26-year run. Lai's case has drawn international criticism, and is seen as a sign of shrinking space for dissent in what was once viewed as the bastion of press freedom in Asia. U.S. President Donald Trump in December expressed sympathy for Lai's conviction, saying that he had asked Chinese President Xi Jinping to consider his release, but stopped short of taking new action to pressure Beijing. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer raised the case with Xi during his visit to Beijing last month, calling for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. "Those discussions will continue, and the foreign secretary is in touch with Mr Lai's family," Starmer told the U.K. parliament after his trip. Monday.com 's stock plummeted about 21% on Monday after the project management platform issued weak guidance as it grapples with rising concerns that artificial intelligence is disrupting the software business model. The Israel-based company called for revenue between $338 million and $340 million in the current quarter, short of the $343 million expected by analysts polled by FactSet. For the full year, Monday.com forecasted between $1.452 billion and $1.462 billion in revenue, versus a FactSet estimate of $1.48 billion. Software stocks have sold off in recent weeks on rising AI disruption fears and worries that new agentic tools can replace them. So far this year, the iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (IGV) has plummeted 22%, while shares of Monday.com have already lost about half their value. The company has shed over three quarters in market value from its November 2021 high. During an earnings call with analysts, management defended the company's market position and highlighted new AI capabilities being implemented, such as agents and a vibe feature, to improve conversion and engagement. Here are the biggest calls on Wall Street on Monday: Wolfe upgrades Robinhood to outperform from peer perform Wolfe says investors should buy the dip. "We are upgrading HOOD shares to Outperform (from Peer Perform) to take advantage of the recent selloff / deterioration in sentiment surrounding the broader crypto ecosystem." Morgan Stanley initiates TeraWulf and Cipher Mining as overweight Morgan Stanley says it sees "significant upside" from both bitcoin miners. "We are bullish on the increasingly attractive valuations of Bitcoin-to-data center conversions, and see significant upside in WULF and CIFR." KeyBanc upgrades Timken to overweight from sector weight KeyBanc says it likes the manufacturing company's new CEO. "We are upgrading shares o f TKR to OW from SW with a $130 PT. Our upgrade is primarily based on our expectations for an industrial cycle inflection and our prospective view that new CEO Lucian Boldea will drive organic growth initiatives, portfolio-shaping actions, and margin improvement programs. Roth upgrades Roblox to buy from hold Roth says the stock's valuation is attractive. "We have a more positive view toward Roblox due to better than expected 2026 bookings guidance and a > 20% bookings CAGR outlook over the next several years, combined with a more attractive valuation." UBS initiates Beta Bionics as buy UBS says the insulin pump company is the "next disruptor." "We initiate coverage o f BBNX with a Buy rating, predicated on our view that BBNX's differentiated technology is the next disruptor in the insulin pump market, leaving the company well-positioned to drive strong double digit growth -- we estimate +32% and +34% in 2026/2027E -- coupled with continued margin expansion." Citi reiterates Apple as buy Citi says the stock remains a top idea. "On #1 AAPL , we model growing services and premium phone mix with higher gross margins to offset DRAM price hike in 2H26" HSBC upgrades Align Technologies to buy from hold HSBC says the orthodontics company has a robust brand name. " Align's strong brand presence, R & D culture, and underpenetrated market remain longer-term growth drivers." Citizens upgrade SoFi to market outperform from market perform Citizens says investors should buy the weakness. "We are upgrading SoFi Technologies, Inc. to Market Outperform from Market Perform and establishing a $30 price target." Citizens upgrades TPG to market outperform from market perform Citizens says the asset manager is executing well. "Impressive execution that's only gaining momentum; we upgrade TPG to Market Outperform (from Market Perform) and establish a $75 price target." Bank of America reiterates Amazon as buy Bank of America said a review of the company's 10-K makes it clear that "AWS capex returns will be the top stock driver." "We think returns on AWS AI capex will be top stock driver for several years, and while the capacity ramp will add to quarterly margin volatility for AWS, we think this capacity will be fully utilized as part of the AI-driven transformation across industries and will help Amazon maintain competitiveness in a very attractive sector." Bank of America reiterates Nvidia as buy The firm says it's standing by the stock. "Our $275 PO is based on 28x CY27E PE ex cash, within NVDA' s historical 25x-56x forward year PE range, which we believe is justified by NVDA's leading share in fast growing AI compute/networking markets, offset by lumpiness in global AI projects, cyclical gaming market, and concerns around access to power." Barclays reiterates Tesla as equal weight Barclays says Tesla remains a "battleground stock." "Remains battleground stock. Investors broadly acknowledge value is extreme and near-term fundamentals remain in question, but this is increasingly of less relevance to the stock" UBS upgrades Viatris to buy from neutral UBS says the pharmaceutical company has a "growing pipeline, margin expansion & focused capital allocation." "We upgrade VTRS to a Buy (from Neutral)." Wells Fargo upgrades GeneDx to overweight from equal weight Wells says the genome testing company has a compelling valuation. "We upgrade WGS to OW (from EW) as we view recent weakness (~50% since Dec) as overdone. We see val'n as attractive at current levels that seem to discount WGS's competitive moat & growth runway. Expanded sales force & new mkts are catalysts in '26." Melius downgrades Microsoft to hold from buy Melius says Microsoft "is losing the narrative." " Microsoft's recent conference call isn't aging well with us. We made some initial criticisms, but now we are even more concerned that the company is moving too slowly with regard to Copilot in 365 with more of a seat-first model that is susceptible to agents. First, we are still floored that Copilot had only 15mm paid users after 3 years of hype." Read more. BTIG initiates StoneCo as buy BTIG says the company is a "first-mover" in the Brazilian payment space. "We are initiating coverage of StoneCo (STNE) with a Buy rating and $22 price target." DA Davidson upgrades Oracle to buy from neutral DA Davidson says investors should buy the dip. "We believe that a revamped OpenAI will return to its position as Google's top challenger and with a fresh stack of capital be able to live up to its obligations this year, including to Oracle. We believe this will remove the biggest concern from ORCL and are upgrading shares to BUY from Neutral, while maintain our $180 price target." Read more. Stephens upgrades Green Plains to overweight from equal weight Stephens says the stock is at an "earnings inflection." "We are upgrading GPRE from EW(Vol.) to OW(Vol.) and raising our PT to $17 (was $10), which assumes a 7.5x EV/EBITDA multiple on our NTM [next twelve months] EBITDA estimates of $186 million." Needham upgrades Medtronic to buy from hold Needham says the stock is in the midst of a turnaround with a robust product pipeline. " MDT is in the early stages of several major product launches in multi-billion dollar markets, and we expect this to drive faster revenue growth." Canaccord upgrades Doximity to buy from hold Canaccord says buy the dip in the digital platform for medical professionals. "In this market, it is hard to make a call upgrading a stock on valuation, but that is indeed where we are with Doximity . There are questions surrounding the company's business, namely the stability of pharma marketing budgets and fears of AI disruption. However, we believe the selloff following the 3Q print is overreaction to short-term fears and will prove to be a longer-term buying opportunity." NatWest's shares fell 9% on Monday after the company announced a 2.7 billion ($3.7 billion) deal to acquire one of the U.K.'s largest wealth managers, Evelyn Partners. The deal will see NatWest double its total assets under management to 127 billion, up from 59 billion, the British bank said in a press release Monday. NatWest is looking to boost its wealth management services as fee-based businesses can help counter a decline in interest income from falling central bank rates. Europe's banking sector thrived in 2025, as stronger organic growth left many lenders flush with excess capital fueling expectations of increased M&A in 2026. Shares were last seen down almost 9%, with the stock up just 1.2% so far this year after gaining 62% in 2025. Check out some of the companies making the biggest moves midday: Kyndryl Holdings The IT infrastructure services provider spun out from IBM tumbled 55% after Kyndryl disclosed in a regulatory filing that its audit committee is reviewing the company's cash management practices. It also reported CFO David Wyshner and General Counsel Edward Sebold have left their positions , effective immediately. Kyndryl also reported third-quarter results. Nexstar Media Group , Tegna TV and digital media provider Nexstar jumped 12% and Tegna climbed 8% after President Donald Trump in a social media post Saturday reversed his earlier position by saying he now supports their merger. Oracle Shares advanced 9% as the enterprise software developer was upgraded to buy from neutral at DA Davidson. " We believe that a revamped OpenAI will return to its position as Google's top challenger and with a fresh stack of capital be able to live up to its obligations this year, including to Oracle," DA Davidson analysts wrote in a note to clients. Cleveland-Cliffs -- The steelmaker dove 19% after posting a wider-than-expected adjusted loss before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of $21 million. Performance was hurt by weakness in the auto and Canadian markets, but the company said it anticipated 2026 would improve as the trade challenges ease and costs fall. Workday The software company fell more than 6% after it said CEO Carl Eschenbach will be replaced immediately by Workday co-founder Aneel Bhusri. Previously, Bhursi has had multiple stints as CEO and co-CEO of Workday. The company's stock is down nearly 45% in the past year. STMicroelectronics The European semiconductor maker gained almost 9% after announcing an expanded, multibillion-dollar partnership with Amazon Web Services to support infrastructure for cloud and AI data centers. Kroger Shares jumped 6% after the grocery chain named former Walmart executive Greg Foran its next CEO. While head of Walmart's U.S. business, Foran oversaw a turnaround at the division. AppLovin The mobile marketing platform surged 13% after CapitalWatch issued an apology and correction for a money laundering charge made in January. AppLovin last month demanded that CapitalWatch, a short seller, retract its 35-page report. Novo Nordisk , Hims & Hers Health Novo Nordisk advanced 3% as Hims & Hers pulled its copycat weight-loss pill off the market after Novo had threatened legal action against the telehealth firm. Hims & Hers' stock tumbled 24%. Robinhood The trading platform rallied 5% after an upgrade to buy from Wolfe Research. The firm pointed to Robinhood's attractive risk-reward profile, despite a recent pullback in crypto-connected stocks. Semiconductor stocks Stocks across the semiconductor industry fell after a South Korean media report that Samsung will begin producing next-generation high-bandwidth memory chips as soon as this month. Micron Technology shed 2%, while shares of Broadcom and Advanced Micro Devices added 3%. Valaris Shares of the offshore drilling services company soared 28% after it agreed to be bought by Transocean for $5.8 billion. Valaris shareholders will receive 15.235 shares of Transocean stock for each Valaris share held. Transocean rose nearly 2%. Waters Corp Shares of the lab equipment maker fell 11% after it warned that first-quarter profits would be lower than Wall Street was expecting. Waters expects first-quarter earnings in the range of $2.25 to $2.35 per share, while analysts surveyed by FactSet predicted a profit of $3.03. However, for the full-year earnings are expected to range between $14.30 and $14.50 per share, above with an average estimate of $14.29. Monday.com Shares sank 22% and hit a 52-week low. The project management platform issued weak guidance amid concerns over artificial intelligence's disruption of the software business model. Monday.com forecast revenue for the full year between $1.452 billion and $1.462 billion. Analysts polled by FactSet anticipated guidance of $1.48 billion. Dynatrace The software maker's stock jumped 7.5% after its fiscal third-quarter results outpaced estimates. Dynatrace earned 44 cents per share on an adjusted basis on revenue of $515 million. Analysts had predicted it would earn 41 cents per share with revenue of $505.8 million. Expand Energy Shares of the natural gas company fell more than 5% after it said CEO Domenic Dell'Osso would step down and it would move its headquarters to Houston from Oklahoma City. Dell'Osso will be replaced by Chairman Michael Wichterich on an interim basis. CNBC's Michelle Fox, Sarah Min, Davis Giangiulio, Liz Napolitano and Christina Cheddar Berk contributed to this report Check out the companies making headlines before the bell. Oracle Shares rose 2% after the technology firm received an upgrade to buy from neutral from DA Davidson. " We believe that a revamped OpenAI will return to its position as Google's top challenger and with a fresh stack of capital be able to live up to its obligations this year, including to Oracle," DA Davidson analysts wrote in a note to clients. STMicroelectronics The semiconductor firm gained 7% after announcing an expanded, multi-billion-dollar partnership with Amazon Web Services to support infrastructure for cloud and AI data centers. Kroger Shares jumped nearly 5% after the Wall Street Journal reported the grocery store chain is preparing to name former Walmart executive Greg Foran as its next CEO. Novo Nordisk , Hims & Hers Health Novo Nordisk rose roughly 5% as Hims & Hers pulled its copycat weight-loss pill off the market after Novo had threatened legal action against the telehealth firm. Hims & Hers' stock sank 18%. Robinhood Shares were up 3% after the trading platform received an upgrade to buy from Wolfe Research. The firm pointed to Robinhood's attractive risk-reward profile, despite a recent pullback in crypto-connected stocks. Semiconductor stocks Stocks across the semiconductor industry fell following a South Korean media report that Samsung will begin producing next generation, high bandwidth memory chips as soon as this month. Micron Technology shed 3%, while shares of Broadcom and Advanced Micro Devices edged down 1%. Valaris Shares of the offshore drilling services company rose about 16% after it struck a deal to be acquired by Transocean for $5.8 billion. Valaris shareholders will receive 15.235 shares of Transocean stock for each Valaris share they own. Transocean shares fell nearly 4%. CNBC's Christina Cheddar Berk contributed to this report Procter & Gamble is riding this year's surge in the consumer staples sector and there are reasons to believe the rally is far from over. Shares of Procter & Gamble are up 10% so far this year, a sharp reversal from their 13% decline in 2025, when investors were concerned about soft consumer demand and rising tariffs. The consumer staples sector rose nearly 6% last week and is up more than 12% year to date, marking its best start to a year since 1997. Consumer staples stocks are typically viewed as defensive, attracting investor interest during periods of economic or market uncertainty. While part of the sector's recent strength reflects a broader rotation away from tech stocks, Bank of America argues the move is also underpinned by improving fundamentals. This marks a notable shift from recent history. Consumer staples were largely out of favor throughout 2025, lagging the S & P 500 in both stock performance and earnings for the past several years, according to a Feb. 5 Bank of America note. That backdrop has changed meaningfully to start 2026. Investors are bowing out of high-growth technology stocks due to concerns about artificial intelligence's impact on traditional enterprise software and mounting capital expenditures by mega-cap companies to build out their own AI offerings. Over the past couple of weeks, the four largest hyperscalers Amazon , Microsoft , Meta , and Alphabet collectively forecast nearly $700 billion in capital spending this year, which will absorb most of their operating cash flow. Investors responded to those jaw-dropping estimates by selling. The four stocks above, plus Oracle and Nvidia, collectively lost more than $1 trillion in market value last week, according to FactSet data. Instead, investors turned to traditional safe-haven names like Procter & Gamble, which has a long track record of adeptly managing its business during market and economic uncertainty. P & G's diversified portfolio of everyday household brands, combined with disciplined cost control and pricing power, has historically helped the company protect margins even when consumers pull back. The rotation thesis was a key reason we started a position in P & G on Nov. 18, and have been steadily adding to it as the stock became cheaper, on Nov. 25 , Dec. 2 , and Jan. 2 . Capital did indeed flow out of tech stocks into more economically resilient names, and has helped drive P & G's rebound. Given its recent run-up, we downgraded P & G to a 2 from a 1 last week, meaning we would wait for a meaningful pullback before adding to our position. PG 1Y mountain PG's 1-year performance. In the note, Bank of America pointed to "fundamental demand improvement" driven by strength in emerging markets, a weaker U.S. dollar, and weather-related benefits tied to winter storms. The bank said for multinationals like Procter & Gamble, a weaker dollar "has served as a tailwind for sales and EPS flexibility," by boosting the value of international sales. Procter does a lot of business abroad, with roughly 50% of sales coming from outside the U.S. Demand remains high in China, its second-largest market, as well as Western Europe and Latin America. Meanwhile, lower oil prices help the company reduce transportation and packaging costs, benefiting margins. Those dynamics are already impacting the bottom line. When Procter reported its second quarter of fiscal 2026 last month, management noted that a weak dollar provided a foreign exchange tailwind of approximately $200 million after taxes to Procter & Gamble's earnings growth for fiscal year 2026. BoA also highlighted PG's "apparent inflection in U.S. fundamentals," suggesting the stock's setup is favorable from here. New CEO Shailesh Jejurikar who took the helm on Jan.1 said the company will double down on investing in its brands to drive market growth while looking to cut costs where possible. The company expects stronger growth in the first half of 2026. We view P & G as a reliable name that balances the portfolio's many AI-themed stocks and also shows signs of improving growth. We maintain our 2 rating on the stock and a $165 price target. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long PG. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Chicago soybean oil rose to its highest level in more than six months, driven by hopes that India will buy more after proposing to open parts of its agriculture market to cheaper US imports.India agreed to cut or eliminate import duties on a slew of US agricultural products, including soybean oil, according to a joint statement on the framework for an interim trade deal released late Friday in the US. That followed an announcement made last week by US President Donald Trump that India would buy over $500 billion of US products, including agriculture.The most actively traded soybean oil contracts on the Chicago Board of Trade surged as much as 1.9% to the highest since July during intraday trading, extending last weeks rally after Trump first announced the deal.The South Asian nation is the worlds largest edible oil importer, buying around 16 million tonnes of seed oil annually, mainly palm, soy, and sunflower oil from producers in Southeast Asia and South America. Soy oil imports from the US are relatively marginal, totalling some 200,000 tonnes in the January-November period last year. The trade deal with the US could allow American supplies to gain market share from other major exporters and curb demand for competing edible oils.Soy oil prices in the US may rise further once details of the deal are finalised, and the agreement could see India scaling back purchases from South America, according to Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive officer of Sunvin Group.Meanwhile, the most traded palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives were steady at around 4,184 ringgit ($1,062) per tonne.The near-term outlook for palm oil remains positive, as prices are still about $100 cheaper than soy oil, Bajoria said. Futures may trade between 4,050 ringgit and 4,450 ringgit through the end of March, he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently launched the Malaysia-India Digital Council (MLDC) and introduced the NPCIPayNet payment link, paving the way for Indias Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to be made available in Malaysia.The initiative aims to simplify cross-border payments for businesses and travellers while strengthening digital and financial cooperation between the two economies.The development is part of broader efforts to deepen economic, defence, and people-to-people engagement under the countries Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, elevated in August 2024.Linking Indias digital payment system with Malaysias Payments Network is expected to reduce transaction costs, enhance interoperability, and allow trade settlements in Rupees and Ringgit, reducing dependence on the US dollar.Experts say the UPI-Malaysia connection could particularly benefit micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), tourists, professionals, and businesses by expanding access to fast, low-cost digital payments.Rohit Mahajan, Founder and Managing Partner of plutos ONE, described the move as the beginning of a new chapter in Asias digital-first economy, creating a more inclusive and secure payments ecosystem.During his visit, Modi also interacted with the Indian-origin community in Malaysia, highlighting cultural ties and initiatives such as extended OCI card eligibility and scholarships for Malaysian students studying in India. He noted the communitys role as a bridge between the two nations, reinforcing both economic and cultural links. Nicaragua has ended visafree entry for Cuban citizens effective Sunday, ending a policy that allowed thousands of Cubans to transit the Central American country in recent years on their journey north to the United States.The government confirmed the decision in a statement. People familiar with the move said President Daniel Ortegas administration appeared to be responding to pressure from Washington.The United States under both the Trump and Biden administrations has accused Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo of allowing Cubans and other nationals to pass freely through Nicaragua and contribute to illegal migration to the US.US pressure on Managua has intensified in recent weeks following the capture by US special forces of Venezuela's president, Nicolas Maduro, a close ally of Ortega.In January Nicaragua's government announced it had freed dozens of people from its national penitentiary system, after the US demanded the release of more than 60 political prisoners in the country. The move came as Venezuela, also under US pressure, began releasing political prisoners. Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on Monday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations.Modi told Ramgoolam that he looked forward to welcoming him to India next week for the AI Impact Summit.Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year, Modi said in a post on X.Also Read: Only about 11% of ED-arrested accused convicted in money laundering cases since 2014: Finance Ministry Modi said he and Ramgoolam reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite the two nations.India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region, Modi said.Also Read: Gulf Oil sees profit dip while sales climb and EV chargers drive growth China has conducted nuclear explosive tests, including preparing for tests with designated yields in the hundreds of tons China has used decoupling a method to decrease the effectiveness of seismic monitoring to hide its activities from the world. China conducted one such Under Secretary of State Thomas G. DiNanno (@UnderSecT) February 6, 2026 The United States, on Friday, February 6, accused China of conducting a secret, yield-producing nuclear explosive test in June 2020. This allegation, made by the US Under Secretary of State Thomas G DiNanno at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, places the test just one week after the deadly Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese forces.In the Galwan face-off, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action while defending the nation and over 30 Chinese troops were reported dead.In a post on X, DiNanno alleged China used decoupling to hide its activities. "China has conducted nuclear explosive tests, including preparing for tests with designated yields in the hundreds of tonnes China has used decoupling a method to decrease the effectiveness of seismic monitoring to hide its activities from the world. China conducted one such yield-producing nuclear test on June 22, 2020," the US official wrote.In reference to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, which aims to significantly cut down on deployed strategic nuclear warheads, he said, "New START was signed in 2010 and its limits on warheads and launchers are no longer relevant in 2026 when one nuclear power is expanding its arsenal at a scale and pace not seen in over half a century and another continues to maintain and develop a vast range of nuclear systems unconstrained by New START's terms." almost all of the US deployed nuclear forces were subject to New START, while only a fraction of Russia's much larger stockpile was exactly zero Chinese nuclear weapons were covered by New START, the official added.He asserted that the United States can now finally take steps to strengthen deterrence , adding, "No longer constrained by the political-military circumstances of 2010 and the treaty they yielded and in response to the destabilising behaviour of these other countries."Last year, US President Donald Trump also hinted at similar accusations but without providing the same level of detail. In a social media post in October, he said that Washington would start testing nuclear weapons "on an equal basis" in response to testing programs by other countries.DiNanno's remarks came as he was presenting a new US strategy calling for three-way negotiations with Russia and China to negotiate new limits on nuclear weapons.China has already declined to participate in disarmament negotiations with Moscow and Washington "at this stage".According to a report in Reuters, Shen Jian, China's ambassador on disarmament, did not directly address DiNanno's charge, but stated that Beijing has always dealt carefully and responsibly with nuclear problems. "China notes that the US continues in its statement to hype up the so-called China nuclear threat. China firmly opposes such false narratives," he added. When the Trump Administration threatened tariffs last month against countries looking to block any plan to annex Greenland, European leaders debated responding with the regions trade bazooka a retaliation mechanism that could target US tech firms selling into the European Union. The anti-coercion instrument, introduced in 2023 and so far unused, is designed to deter foreign governments from applying economic pressure against EU member states. It provides the legal basis for the EU to impose a broad range of retaliatory economic restrictions, allowing it to escalate its response without relying on traditional trade dispute procedures. Countermeasures could be applied to various industries. In the case of the US, technology services including cloud computing and software would be potential targets. Chinese New Year elements gain momentum overseas as technology, social media and pop culture open space for cultural dialogue 11:01, February 09, 2026 By Feng Fan and Sun Langchen ( Global Times As the Spring Festival draws near, Chinese cultural elements are spreading at an accelerated pace across the globe. From a Chinese New Year parade in Paris led by a humanoid robot, to Spring Festival Gala promotional videos appearing in metro systems in major cities across Germany and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, fire-horse-themed artwork on trams in the Netherlands, a growing array of Chinese elements is being embraced abroad. With hashtags such as "Chinamaxxing" and "China travel" going viral on social media platforms, and several foreign leaders choosing to share videos of their China visit on social media platforms in early 2026, Chinese culture has gained renewed visibility internationally. The upcoming Chinese New Year, particularly the Year of the Horse, has become a key moment for cultural dialogue between China and the world. Global reach This year, celebrations of the Spring Festival abroad have increasingly moved beyond Chinese communities, drawing wider participation from local residents. Technology-based elements, social media dissemination and even AI-generated videos have played a role in expanding the reach of Spring Festival celebrations. In early February, hundreds of Chinese and French artists welcomed the Chinese Year of the Horse in a parade on Paris' Champs-Elysees. Walking at the head of the parade was a humanoid robot invented by a Chinese company and supplied by a French technology firm. The robot turned, paused and waved to spectators in rhythm with the music, prompting cheers and raised smartphones from crowds lining the boulevard, according to the Xinhua News Agency. Approximately 100,000 residents and tourists gathered along the Champs-Elysees to watch the 2026 Chinese New Year parade, according to Xinhua, citing organizers. Spectators filling one of the world's most famous avenues with a festive atmosphere. Performers dressed in traditional Hanfu (Chinese attires) and presenting Yingge folk dances, which comes from South China's Guangdong Province, were also part of the procession. The scene drew attention from overseas media including ABC News, while social media users followed the festivities through viral videos, sharing personal celebrations, from festive makeup looks to introductions of Spring Festival customs. The popularity of the Year of the Horse online has been partly linked to the rise of the so-called trend of "becoming Chinese" and "Chinamaxxing," which has introduced more overseas users to Chinese culture. Prior to this, cross-platform exchanges, including on lifestyle platform RedNote, had already been increasing. Australian broadcaster SBS News, in a Sunday report on the Chinamaxxing phenomenon, highlighted the growing cultural exchanges on social media. Quoting Fan Yang, a research fellow on digital technologies at the University of Melbourne, the report said, "There was a lot of breaking down of stereotypes on both sides." The outlet also noted that Chinese culture is being more widely distributed, aided by videos created by foreigners living in China and the expansion of visa-free travel. "The surge of global enthusiasm for the Chinese New Year is closely linked to the improvement of China's international image. China's rising economic strength and overall national capability have reshaped how the world perceives the country," Zhang Yiwu, a professor of Chinese language and literature at Peking University, told the Global Times. "In this process, the international reach of technologies such as Chinese-made robots on foreign social media platforms has played a notable role. As impressions of China become more positive, a valuable window of opportunity for cultural exchange has emerged," Zhang noted. 'Year of the Fire Horse' "Whether you follow the Chinese Zodiac or not, if you're in any way online then you're probably aware that 2026 is the Year of the Horse. From TikTok videos promoting the general embrace of "horse energy," to acupuncturists and herbalists pointing to major change afoot, the Year of the Horse has cantered its way to center stage," Vogue observed in an article in January. In Chinese calendar, this Year of the Horse is marked as "Bing Wu"; the Bing is one of 10 heavenly stems and categorized as fire, while Wu is the earthly branches for the Horse. The Vogue magazine noted in the article that "fire" is the element and "horse" the zodiac sign, a combination that occurs only once every 60 years. Across platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, AI-generated videos tagged with "Fire Horse" and "Year of the Horse" have proliferated, featuring vivid red visuals and stylized imagery. Some focus purely on the uniqueness of the year, while others delve deeper into traditional concepts such as feng shui and zodiac fortune. In simple terms, Vogue summarized the symbolism as "rapid change, fresh opportunities, personal growth, and a faster pace of life." Horse-related imagery has also gone viral overseas through unexpected cultural moments. A factory production mistake that produced the so-called "crying horse" stuffie attracted global media coverage. Meanwhile, British actor Tom Felton, known for his role as Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, gained renewed attention among Chinese fans due to the phonetic resemblance of his character's name to "Ma-er-fu" in Chinese. Ma stands for Horse, while Fu stands for good luck, therefore the name is understood as the Year of the Horse brings about good luck. Festive decorations featuring Felton's character became popular in China, and the actor reshared an Instagram story describing his character as a "symbol of Chinese New Year in China," drawing attention from international netizens and media outlets including the BBC. Together, these moments illustrate how horse imagery has traveled globally alongside the Spring Festival. Zhang said such cultural elements have made China more tangible to ordinary people in Western countries. Taking the "Malfoy-style" fu character as an example, he noted that blending globally recognized pop-culture symbols with traditional Chinese elements creates new visual markers that resonate quickly and spread virally. Viewed in this context, Zhang said the current surge should not be seen as sudden or isolated. Rather, it reflects the cumulative effect of years of creative development, the Spring Festival's UNESCO recognition, growing cultural confidence, rising goodwill toward Chinese culture abroad, and the amplifying role of online influencers. A Global Times report previously noted that Chinese and US families who bonded through RedNote reunited in Beijing one year after a photo exchange that touched millions online. During the visit, the families planned to explore Qianmen Street, experience the festive atmosphere and purchase Spring Festival couplets and decorations for the Year of the Horse. "Chinese people always have a way of sharing the depth of their culture in a lighthearted and engaging manner," said Brecken Newmann, father of the American family. He added that people around him now often say, "Hey, you're right - the Chinese are truly so fun, friendly and brimming with fresh ideas." (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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Then things took an explosive turn last week when Melinda chucked her ex on a burning pyre of speculation after the 70-year-old tech titan was name dropped in yet another tranche of Jeffrey Epstein files. The new Justice Department document dump includes allegations from Epstein that Gates caught a sexually transmitted disease from contact with 'Russian girls' and then attempted to hide the infection from his wife. Gates has denounced the claims as false, adding that he regrets 'every minute' of his association with Epstein, even though, he says, the relationship was confined to only group dinners to discuss global health initiatives. Well, to Melinda it seems Bill's denials are not enough. 'For me, it's personally hard whenever those details come up, right? Because it brings back memories of some very, very painful times in my marriage,' she said when asked about the new claims in an NPR interview released in full on Thursday. 'I am so happy to be away from all the muck [in her marriage],' she added. 'For me, it's personally hard whenever those details come up, right? Because it brings back memories of some very, very painful times in my marriage,' Melinda said in an NPR interview French Gates chucked her ex on a burning pyre of speculation after the 70-year-old tech titan was name dropped in yet another tranche of Jeffrey Epstein files Perhaps, but it seems she's still happy to sling it. 'Whatever questions remain there of what I can't even begin to know all of it those questions are for those people and for even my ex-husband,' she continued. 'They need to answer to those things, not me.' Indeed, why bother with a dignified public silence or perhaps if she actually knows anything speaking to the authorities when you can land sucker punches amid the kind of sweeping generalities that only fuel the fire of conjecture? Certainly, Republican South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace is using Melinda's interview to stoke the flames. 'I watched Melinda Gates [sic] interview,' wrote the outspoken sexual abuse survivor in a post on X. 'I immediately asked the chairman of oversight, James Comer, to subpoena, Bill Gates. I have questions for Bill Gates about Epstein.' One Bill (Clinton) is already due to testify before the House of Representatives about his connections to Epstein. Why not make it two? And don't forget, such is Melinda's superior moral antenna that she met Epstein 'exactly one time', back in 2013 at his New York City home, an encounter she subsequently said left her 'unsettled'. 'I regretted it the second I walked in the door,' she revealed in an interview with Gayle King on CBS This Morning in 2022. Don't forget, such is Melinda's superior moral antenna that she met Epstein 'exactly one time,' back in 2013 at his New York City home, an encounter she subsequently said left her, 'unsettled' 'Whatever questions remain there of what I can't even begin to know all of it those questions are for those people and for even my ex-husband,' Melinda said (Pictured: Photo of Epstein and Gates, released by DOJ) 'He was abhorrent. He was evil personified. My heart breaks for these women.' Though it wasn't just sixth sense, was it? After all, Epstein had pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from someone under the age of 18 and served almost 13 months in custody in 2008, fully five years before Melinda visited his home. Meanwhile, her husband's long association with Epstein would continue for another year, though her distaste with the situation undoubtedly curtailed things. A text message exchange between Epstein and an apparent adviser to Gates in 2017 released in November last year suggests that Melinda was the stumbling block to the disgraced financier's attempt to rekindle relations with her ex-husband. At the time, Epstein was apparently seeking Gates' involvement in a donor-advised fund, a tax-deductible charitable vehicle he wanted to operate. 'He wants to talk to you, but his wife won't let him,' the adviser told Epstein. In a series of texts a minute later, the adviser said of Gates, 'he loves you,' 'he says hi,' and 'he feels bad about the [donor advised fund] btw He thought great idea, but wife wouldn't allow.' Yes, the seemingly stoic, sensible and wholesome Melinda, who co-chaired the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation the world's second largest charitable organization until 2004 has the right to feel let down. It perhaps explains why her claims to have moved on don't fully convince. In my opinion, behind the rictus grin and therapy speak, the woman who met her husband the then-CEO of Microsoft in 1987 shortly after she joined the company as a multimedia product developer, seems to be still raging. That may be why she seemingly still can't resist covering old ground in a revenge tour that appears to roll on longer than her 27-year marriage. It began, of course, with a score-settling memoir, The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward, a 'coping with change' handbook or, rather, a drip feed of disses aimed at her errant ex and his betrayals including his acknowledged affair with a Microsoft employee in 2000. Melinda's memoir detailed the union, from her ex-husband's wedding cake cutting faux pas (passing pieces to guests before his new bride), to how he left her in labor and at the hospital only to return reeking of burgers, to how she dumped a 'sad and upset' Bill in their usual restaurant. The document dump includes allegations from Epstein that Gates caught a sexually transmitted disease from contact with 'Russian girls' and attempted to hide the infection from his wife (Pictured: Photo of Bill Gates and unknown woman, released by DOJ) In my opinion, behind the rictus grin and therapy speak, Melinda is still raging. Then, in body-con dresses, looking strong and happy, she seemed a natural poster girl for a thriving post-divorce life. Now, five years on, the sniping from the sidelines is getting a little tired. Capitalizing on the horrors of the Epstein saga to score additional points would be quite another thing. How can we really buy into what is supposed to be Melinda's rebirth Bill's better half set free on her own terms advancing her philanthropic and investment work when she still seems a women scorned. Having long rued a lack of identity and 'not being heard' in her marriage - surprise, surprise when you're the wife of the world's fourth richest man who spearheaded the digital revolution she still appears welded to the past. 'It takes courage forging a different life,' she said in an interview with People magazine last year. 'When you change paths you realize, oh, it's a big opening.' For now, though, that seems to be mainly confined to Melinda's increasingly mean mouth. It seems like a lifetime away, but it was less than three years March 29, 2022. Prince Philips memorial service in Westminster Abbey. A nation had gathered to give thanks for the life of a man who had served this country for decades, both as a naval officer and as the monarchs consort. And we all waited for the appearance of that monarch to join the huge crowd in the Abbey. The door at Poets Corner opened, and Queen Elizabeth entered, a frail old lady, who could not walk without some assistance. Whose arm was she holding, at this symbolic moment of her reign? Not Prince Charles or Princess Anne, her two elder children. She chose to enter the Abbey on the arm of her third child, Andrew. There was quite understandable outrage. This was a man so bone-headed, so conceited and morally thick, as to appear on Newsnight three years before and deny that he had any recollection of meeting Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, even though we had all seen the photograph of Andrew with Giuffre at the London house of Ghislaine Maxwell (it has now been authenticated by the Epstein papers). A man so boorish and untroubled by public sensibility that, as The Mail on Sunday revealed yesterday, he allowed Jeffrey Epstein to bring a very cute young Romanian model to a private dinner at Buckingham Palace, along with a Russian model and two other girls. Thames Valley Police, meanwhile, have said they will review an allegation that Epstein sent a woman to have sex with Andrew at another royal residence, Royal Lodge, his former 30-room home in Windsor. There was understandable outrage when Andrew, instead of one of his two older siblings, escorted his frail mother into Westminster Abbey for Prince Philips memorial service He denies any wrongdoing, as we have become tired of hearing. But the relentless tide of squalid stories about his behaviour in royal mansions and palaces is becoming more and more degrading and shocking. In the circumstances, the silence from senior royals is appalling. There is no excuse for it. They should apologise to the country for Andrews behaviour as well as to Epsteins victims. Prince Edwards grudging attempt to do so last week at a conference in Dubai in which he said, I think its really important to remember the victims, was not anything like enough. These are perilous times for the monarchy. They may have taken away Andrews titles and his grand Windsor home, but more is needed to overcome the publics revulsion. The Kings and Prince Williams reluctance to address the issue, however, follows the pattern of the late Queen, who always let off her favourite, turning a blind eye to his excesses in the face of gruesome evidence. Queen Elizabeth II was in Balmoral when Epstein turned up with models on his arm for Andrew at Buckingham Palace. And yet courtiers would have known what was going on in her home. She could have insisted on being informed but does not seem to have been keen to find out. She went on to help pay Andrews 12million settlement in the civil case Giuffre brought against him, accusing him of sexually abusing her when she was 17 (which he denies). It was effectively hush money that prevented embarrassing revelations emerging in court during Her Majestys Jubilee Year. This was a man so bone-headed, so conceited and morally thick, as to appear on Newsnight and deny that he had any recollection of meeting Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, even though we had all seen the photo of them at the London house of Ghislaine Maxwell The appearance in the Abbey with Andrew had been a dreadful misjudgment, but the payment to Mrs Giuffre was worse for it appeared to involve Andrews family in the sleazy business of cover-up. As it happens it also had tragic consequences, with Mrs Giuffre committing suicide and her family all quarrelling over the sum. But apart from anything else, the payment made no sense if he had not even met her, as he claimed, why would Andrew have wanted to give her such a colossal amount? The truth is that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is his mothers tragedy. He is her tragic flaw. No reasonable person would question that Elizabeth II was a role model of how to be a head of state and, above all, a constitutional monarch. When she died, world leaders of every political complexion were united in awe-struck admiration for a person who for 70 years had been at her countrys helm. And during an historical era of quite spectacular change, she had been both wonderfully well-adapted to change, while at the same time remaining quietly, sensibly, unchangeable. Yet, as the sordid story of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor unfolds, it is impossible to ignore the part she played in his story. No one who observed the Royal Family over the years could fail to notice that although she had many, many virtues, the Queen was not a very warm mother to Prince Charles, for instance. When little Charles was three, and the Queen had been away abroad for five weeks, he was waiting to be greeted by his mother on her return, and she just gave him a formal handshake, as if he were Lord Chamberlain or the Chancellor of the Exchequer. With Andrew, however, her maternal warmth overflowed, and she indulged him at every turn, giving him lavish presents, such as her wedding present to Andrew and Fergie the hideous Texan ranch-style house, Sunninghill Park, which they built for themselves on the edge of Windsor Great Park. Eugenie and Beatrice were pulled into the paedophiles vortex later, too, when Epstein wondered if they would show him and other guests round Buckingham Palace Gracelessly, when he got into financial difficulties, Andrew sold it for 15million. Though it had been on the market for five years, with no one wanting this eyesore, it was somehow sold to the son-in-law of the president of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, whom Andrew had met when he was this countrys trade envoy. Of course, we now know this was only one detail in a whole catalogue of sordid and dodgy actions by Andrew and his hellish ex-wife. There is the fact that Fergie, with her begging-bowl, took their two daughters, Eugenie and Beatrice, to see Epstein just days after he had been released from prison for serious offences relating to forcing an under-age girl to have sex. Eugenie and Beatrice were pulled into the paedophiles vortex later, too, when Epstein wondered if they would show him and other guests round Buckingham Palace. No one is suggesting that Queen Elizabeth II condoned these ridiculously inappropriate guests to the Palace. But she gave birth to Andrew, and the way in which she brought him up is a contributory factor in the whole sorry story. As a naval wife, I am afraid, she took the attitude that boys will be boys. She spent the first two years of her marriage living in Malta with Prince Philip and the convention at that time, among many naval wives, was that they should turn a blind eye to what men got up to when their ship docked in foreign ports. Andrew was a successful naval officer, and his mother probably decided that this was simply something which men did. We are paying the price for her indulgence of him. We must not undervalue the late Queens memory, nor count her great achievements as a monarch for nothing. But one of the disturbing things about the Andrew and Epstein saga is that it taints the whole of the monarchy. And the late monarch herself, pen poised over a cheque-book, must bear some responsibility for that. Yes, what has Omid Scobie been doing since trying to persuade the world that his friend Duchess Meghan is not his friend and that he is absolutely not a mouthpiece for the wilder foamings of her choleric husband, Prince Harry of Hurty? Lets get two things straight. Omids special royal non-friends are merely misunderstood. Harry is a stone-cold hero and Meghan is not the fake bake, fruit-mangling monster of popular opinion. As he tells it, they are both lovely, sweet paragons who have been treated badly by the British people, the Royal Family and especially blows a loud, hand-plucked Montecito raspberry the British media. The former royal reporter has taken time off from managing their reputations and micro-cultivating his eyebrows to write another book. Only this time it is fiction. Remarkably, after spending years complaining that no one took him seriously, Omid Scobie has written a frothy romcom; a cheesy tale of royal snogs and palace sneaks clearly inspired by the adventures of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Published this week, the book has already been snapped up by Universal Television to adapt for the small screen. And if that is not annoying enough, there was reportedly a bidding war over the rights from nine studios, resulting in a seven-figure offer. The Princess of Wales with Harry and Meghan on the Buckingham Palace balcony in 2018 Co-written with celebrated young fiction author Robin Benway, Royal Spin is a 306-page workplace romp which chronicles the adventures of Lauren Morgan, a wisecracking, peppy American spin doctor who leaves her job at the White House to take up a post as head of communications at Buckingham Palace. Think Emily In Paris meets Red, White & Royal Blue, reads the ominous blurb on the cover, although The West Wing for ding-a-lings or The Crown for clowns might be more apt. Plot points? Before you know it, our heroine Lauren has been forced into wearing pantyhose by the fuddy duds at Buck House but soon averts her first Press scandal when a royal-by-marriage wife places a highly offensive racist vase in the middle of a table at a luncheon honouring NHS workers from the Caribbean nations is this ringing any bells? Heres another clue. The same individual was previously caught telling a foreign shop assistant to learn proper English. This is clearly meant to reference Princess Michael of Kent, who famously had to apologise for wearing a blackamoor brooch to a 2017 Palace Christmas banquet at which Meghan Markle, then Prince Harrys fiancee, was also present. Some years earlier she was also accused of telling a group of black diners at a New York City restaurant to go back to the colonies, which she has always denied. Oh, if only there were a feisty, American, breath-of-fresh air, Meghan-adjacent genius publicist who could weed out the institutionalised racism inside the British monarchy while buying everyone doughnuts and looking super cute in her Veronica Beard jacket. Luckily, Omid has invented just the character. The adrenaline burn inside Lauren was now a wildfire, we are informed, as Lauren solves the problem by writing STATEMENT on a whiteboard and bringing in experts from the British Museum to lecture the dingbat royals on artwork and jewellery with links to colonialism. Job done! Omid Scobie has written a frothy romcom; a cheesy tale of royal snogs and palace sneaks clearly inspired by the adventures of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex Royal Spin is a 306-page workplace romp which chronicles the adventures of Lauren Morgan, a wisecracking, peppy American spin doctor who leaves her job at the White House to take up a post as head of communications at Buckingham Palace Five minutes later, our heroine is in the middle of a love triangle with a handsome royal reporter called Oliver and the even more handsome Duke of Exeter. Who he? A soulful, misunderstood maverick with soft eyes called Jasper who looks more like a movie star than a blue-blooded royal but has issues with the courtiers. I know how this works, he tells Lauren on Page 86. They bring you in, build you up, then offer you as a sacrifice when someone with a higher rank makes a mistake. It is the playbook that works, and they use it every single time. This peevish nonsense is culled straight from the Prince Harry chronicle of complaints, which makes reading Royal Spin sometimes feel like chomping through the spare bits of Spare, Harrys own whinge of an autobiography. Thankfully, there are no frozen royal penises here to chill the marrow, but we do have to trudge through a tundra of deathless prose in a world where views are picturesque, journalists act like hyenas, skies are the colour of the icy blue topaz that was firmly embedded in the Queens crown and Lauren is drawn to the Duke of Exeter like a moth to a flame. The chestnut-haired minx is pretty keen on Oscar the journalist, too. If kissing Oscar at Annabels had made her pulse race, kissing Jasper in Singapore settled every loose, rattling thing inside her, we learn on Page 185, which makes Lauren sound like Princess Margarets drinks cabinet during a stormy passage on the Royal Yacht Britannia. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were recently involved in an imbroglio with Kim Kardashian after photographs were posted online of them attending Kris Jenners birthday party at Jeff Bezoss Hollywood mansion the night before Remembrance Sunday One imagines that author Omid has no insider knowledge on ladder-resist stockings and what it feels like to wear too-tight Louboutin heels, so we must thank co-author Robin for bringing her girly A-game to this fish-out-of-water tale. Omid, for his part, enthusiastically lards the pages with his same old greasy agenda the racist royals, the snobbish rotters at the Palace, the awfulness of newspapers who dont share his view that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are truly wonderful people who are more sinned against that sinning. He even throws some shade at poor, shunned Thomas Markle, giving Lauren a troublesome father whose existence threatens to derail her happy life. The people your father chooses to associate himself with could absolutely hurt someone and his actions are about to hurt many people, mostly you, whimpering Lauren is told on Page 259. It is fiction, but it is fully locked and loaded with an unmistakable underlying message. One that doesnt do Britain nor its Royal Family any favours. Omid Scobies critics might argue that his two previous royal books about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex Finding Freedom in 2020 and Endgame three years later also contained elements of pure fiction. The first written with the help of the Duchess of Sussex through third-party sources was one long howl of petulance which chronicled the Sussexes exit from Britain in search of a more authentic life in America. Bombshell revelations on the tear-stained pages included the terrible afternoon when Queen Elizabeth was too busy to see the Sussexes and they had to wait for an appointment. Or that unforgettable day when Kate failed to give Meghan a lift to the shops. Scobies grand theme in Endgame was that the downfall of the monarchy was nigh. In the end, his book didnt sink the royals, but it did contain energetic reiterations of Sussexian pet peeves alongside an enfilade of potshots aimed at the couples enemies. You might recall that Dutch editions of the book were recalled after including the names of the two royal racists who were alleged to have asked questions about the skin colour of Harry and Meghans first child. King Charles and the Princess of Wales were rightly or wrongly identified in the furore, which Scobie put down to a translation error; a version of events that was denied by the Dutch publisher. Both these titles became international bestsellers, even if they will never quite be the kind of history books that go down in the history books. In his novel, the royal author turns to the same themes which pulsate through the Sussex industrial grievance complex: sniffy relatives, courtiers who are crashing snobs, the dastardly ferals in the British Press but now with the added bonus of the tights-hating, plucky American a woman who is even more irritating that the White Houses real life Karoline Leavitt who is going to sort them all out. Meanwhile, how is the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs authentic life in America working out? In December, Prince Harry gave a speech at an estate agents conference in Toronto. The duchess has added a bookmark to her As Ever lifestyle brand. The couple were recently involved in an imbroglio with Kim Kardashian after photographs were posted online of them attending Kris Jenners birthday party at Jeff Bezoss Hollywood mansion the night before Remembrance Sunday. And last week a grinning Prince Harry was filmed holding up one of his wifes new chocolate bars, an act of naked promotion that once got Anthea Turner cancelled when she was accused of endorsing a Cadbury Snowflake bar at her own wedding. Omigod, Omid! It would take more than Lauren Morgan and her whiteboard to sort this mess out. Lets peer six months into the future. Will Angela Rayner be Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland? Might she represent our country on the world stage, and rub shoulders with Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron? Can we imagine her standing outside No 10 and telling us how she will change Britain for ever? The answer to these nightmarish questions is not far short of Yes. Rayner has more chance than anyone else of being Prime Minister in six, or even three, months certainly more than Wes Streeting or Andy Burnham or Ed Miliband. More chance, too, than Sir Keir Starmer, whose characteristically self-serving sacrifice of his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney is unlikely to prolong his prime ministership if Labour loses the Gorton and Denton by-election in just over two weeks time and is wiped out in Mays local elections. Has it really come to this? This country has had several abysmal leaders in my lifetime but none of them could compete with Angela Rayner. She is wholly unqualified for the highest office. It is a sign of how debased our politics has become that she should even be considered for it. Some Labour MPs are shamelessly championing her only five months after she was sacked for failing to pay 40,000 stamp duty on the purchase of an 800,000 flat, and second home, in Hove. HMRC hasnt yet announced the outcome of its investigation. Angela Rayner has more chance than anyone else of being Prime Minister in six, or even three, months certainly more than Wes Streeting, Andy Burnham or Ed Miliband My terror of Rayner has nothing to do with snobbery. Many of us would rejoice if someone who had left school at 16 with no qualifications and a baby on the way transformed herself through hard work, study and self-improvement into a formidable, effective politician. Weaknesses Rayner has done no such thing. She has buckets of political guile yet lacks the experience and knowledge once deemed essential to statecraft. She has remained at heart a class warrior, not long ago describing Tories as scum as well as homophobic, racist, misogynistic, nasty and vile. Compare her to that great politician Ernest Bevin, who was Foreign Secretary in the post-war Labour government. Bevins background was even more deprived than Rayners. His father had done a bunk, and his mother died when he was eight. He had almost no education, and left school at 11. Like Rayner, Bevin became a trade union official, but unlike her he took advantage of opportunities that came his way to educate himself and deepen his political understanding. In the 1930s, by which time he led the Transport and General Workers Union, he immersed himself in foreign affairs, so that when he became Foreign Secretary in 1945 he knew what he was talking about. Like Rayner, Ernest Bevin, Foreign Secretary in the post-war Labour government, became a trade union official - but unlike her he took advantage of opportunities that came his way to educate himself and deepen his political understanding Bevin didnt hate Tories. He was a patriot who never disguised his origins (he spoke with a West Country accent) or forgot the interests of working people. He sought to serve the entire British nation. Could there be a greater contrast with Angela Rayner? This divisive woman appears to have very limited knowledge of economics or foreign affairs, and has made little attempt to acquire any expertise in either subject. We may stand on the verge of a European war. Would any of us feel remotely comfortable if she were the occupant of No 10? For all Starmers manifest weaknesses, he is a far safer pair of hands, and apparently taken seriously by other world leaders. Why, then, does Rayner have so much support in the Labour movement, especially among party members and trade unionists, who will have a vote to choose Starmers successor if I should probably say when he is led away? Some of them want a female leader. Many are drawn to Rayner because they believe she is authentically Left-wing, and could be counted on to lead a much more socialist government than Starmer. They are right about that. Rayners ministerial experience is slight, but until she left office last September she revelled in promoting the radical Employment Rights Bill. Failed Although this has been watered down by Downing Street, the Government has variously said it will cost employers between 1billion and 5billion a year. Now passed into law, it includes a ban on zero-hour contracts and a right to statutory sick pay from the first day of illness. There is also absolutely no reason to believe that Rayner is a competent politician. And yet this flawed and uncouth woman is ahead in the betting A Rayner-led government would doubtless award the trade unions more new privileges. It would increase taxes still further, raise public expenditure (excluding defence), and do even less than the current administration to curtail spiralling welfare spending. We shouldnt assume that Rayners political guile would somehow see her through. Apart from presiding over the damaging Employment Rights Bill, she failed as Housing Secretary to deliver Labours commitment to build many more houses than the Tories. They have actually put up many fewer. The Tories completed about eight per cent more homes in their final, disappointing year of office than Labour in its first year. Its target of one and a half million new homes in this Parliament wont be met. In short, Angela Rayner is not only a class warrior under investigation by HMRC who is unschooled in economics or world affairs and likely to favour Left-wing policies. There is also absolutely no reason to believe that she is a competent politician. And yet this flawed and uncouth woman is ahead in the betting. Streeting is reckoned by some to have been too close to the disgraced Peter Mandelson, and has hardly covered himself in glory in shaking up the NHS. Andy Burnham has so far been prevented by Starmer from finding a seat. As for Ed Miliband, who is reportedly negotiating a common platform with the Greens, we would all be sitting in darkened rooms eating powdered soup by the end of his premiership. Surely even Labour couldnt be so daft as to choose him. The idea that a new leader will somehow rescue the partys fortunes is in any case a fantasy. People wont relish replacing an admittedly hopeless prime minister for whom they voted with another whom they didnt choose, complete with a whole new set of policies. Labour should call a new election but it isnt going to do that because it knows it would be destroyed, with many of its not obviously gifted MPs ending up on the dole. Like the Tories who brought about the defenestration of Boris Johnson in 2022, this disintegrating Government resembles a private sect, with its warring members thinking only of their own skins. There is even crazy talk of finding a caretaker Prime Minister who could hold the crumbling fort while Rayner and the others sorted out their problems in her case getting a clean bill of health from HMRC. The interests of Labour are put above what is best for the country. Whats best for the country is categorically not Rayner. Alas, she will draw strength from the sight of Morgan McSweeney being thrown overboard. Shell see that Starmer is on the ropes, and will very soon be knocked out of the ring. The prospect of her ensconced in No 10 is truly terrifying. Starmer is the most abject Prime Minister of my lifetime, but Angela Rayner would be so much worse. A groundbreaking new 'molecular glue' has been shown to trick deadly cancer cells into 'self-destructing,' researchers have announced. California-based medical startup Neomorph announced Tuesday that it has begun its first clinical trial of NEO-811 to treat clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common type of kidney cancer in the US. The trial has led to one patient being dosed with NEO-811, which is known as a molecular glue degrader, a drug made up of a group of small molecules that forces interaction between a disease-causing protein and destructive enzymes. This forces the cancer cells to destroy themselves, preventing the disease from spreading or taking hold in the first place. Drugs such as these are typically given orally in multiple doses. While traditional treatments like chemotherapy attack cancer cells, Neomorph says its glue redirects the body to dispose of harmful proteins on its own by labeling them as 'trash.' This could also prevent lasting side effects and damage caused by chemotherapy and radiation like neuropathy or tingling, organ damage, infertility and other cancers. The goal of the trial is to evaluate the glue's effectiveness in treating advanced, inoperable ccRCC. Scientists are developing a new drug that tricks disease-causing proteins into 'self-destructing' (stock image) Your browser does not support iframes. Dr Phil Chamberlain, CEO and founder of Neomorph, said trial results are expected later this year. He said in a press release: 'Dosing the first patient in our Phase 1/2 trial of NEO-811 in renal cell carcinoma marks a pivotal inflection point for Neomorph, representing the first clinical evaluation of an asset from our internally developed pipeline. 'As we advance in the clinic, we look forward to generating data that will inform the continued development of NEO-811 and further validate the potential of our platform to deliver differentiated medicines for patients with significant unmet need.' Kidney cancer, also called renal cancer, strikes around 80,000 Americans every year and kills 15,000, making it the seventh-most common cancer in the US. ccRCC, which starts in the cells that help filter waste out of the blood, makes up about eight in 10 kidney cancer cases. The disease typically affects older Americans, with an average diagnosis age of 65. Only six percent of patients are aged between 35 and 44, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The exact causes are unclear, but a growing body of evidence suggests smoking, drinking and breathing in toxins produced by certain kinds of mold could raise the risk. Schayene Silva (pictured) was diagnosed with Stage 1 kidney cancer in April 2025 at age 38 Proteins in the human body help carry out essential tasks like carrying oxygen, repairing DNA and dividing or degrading over time. While many bind together, others pass each other by. NEO-811, however, can bind to various proteins and attract the enzymes, E3 ubiquitin ligase, that cause dangerous cells to self-destruct. 'The incredible thing about glues is they have no respect for normal limits,' Chamberlain told The San Diego Union-Tribune. Chamberlain said he chose to focus on ccRCC because nine in 10 patients have a von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene, promoting tumor growth. He said: 'There are lots of cases of it in the US, and most of the patients have a particular mutation. So its a large population, but its also a precision medicine.' Neomorph is also looking to expand the research into other tumors, but Chamberlain did not specify which ones. Last year, Neomorph signed a $1.6 billion deal with pharmaceutical giant AbbVie for an option to license the glue. The company has also signed deals with Novo Nordisk and Biogen. Steven Elmore, vice president of small molecule therapeutics and platform technologies at AbbVie, said: 'Protein degraders represent a groundbreaking advancement in the field of drug discovery, and at AbbVie, we are committed to advancing this technology forward.' It is unclear when more patients will receive the drug and exactly when trial results will become available. A woman in Bangladesh died on Friday after contracting the deadly Nipah virus in January, The World Health Organisation has confirmed. The case follows an outbreak of Nipah virus cases identified in neighbouring India, which has already introduced Covid-era border controls. The virus is a rare but serious infectious disease carried by bats that could kill up to 75 per cent of people infected, according to UK health chiefs. The patient in northern Bangladesh - aged between 40 and 50 - developed a fever and neurological symptoms consistent with Nipah virus on 21 January, including headache, muscle cramps, loss of appetite and vomiting. Her symptoms then escalated as she started to show signs of confusion, hypersalivation and convulsion - a condition in which muscles contract and relax quickly and cause uncontrolled shaking of the body. On 27 January she became unconscious and was admitted to hospital where she died the next day. The surveillance team collected throat swabs and blood samples which confirmed Nipah virus infection. She had no travel history, but it was reported she repeatedly consumed raw date palm sap in the weeks leading up to her death - with most infections resulting from consuming fruits contaminated with the faeces or saliva of infected fruit bats. The case in Bangladesh follows two Nipah virus cases identified in India which sparked pandemic concerns Your browser does not support iframes. The WHO says all 35 people who had been in contact with the patient are being monitored and have tested negative for the virus. No further cases have been detected to date. The announcement comes just over a week after two cases were confirmed in West Bengal State, in eastern India, as authorities work to contain the deadly virus they say remains largely under control. The UK Health Security issued new guidance following the outbreak stating: 'While the risk to most people remains very low, understanding the virus is important if you are planning to travel to areas where it circulates.' It is estimated that between 40 and 75 per cent of people infected with the virus will die, with others being left with lasting neurological difficulties including persistent seizures and personality changes. In rare cases, the virus can lay dormant and reactivate months or years after the initial infection. Because of this, countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Pakistan have implemented temperature screenings at airports after India's West Bengal region confirmed five cases of Nipah virus. This is the first case since the outbreak to be reported outside of India, sparking fresh pandemic concerns. Your browser does not support iframes. Some parts of Asia have tightened screening measures at airports to control the spread Your browser does not support iframes. Join the debate Should Britain impose restrictions on travel to the UK? But since 2001 more than 340 Nipah virus cases have been reported in Bangladesh - about half of which occurred among people with a history of drinking raw palm sap. In a statement last week, WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus confirmed: 'Authorities have increased disease surveillance and testing, implemented prevention and control measures in health care settings, and are keeping the public informed about how to protect themselves.' Officials continue to watch the virus closely, as while there has not yet been any cases identified in the UK, there is no vaccine or treatment for infection. Another measles case has been confirmed in connection with an exposure at California's Disney theme parks. It comes just one week after health officials announced the first patient had been infected, which exposed thousands of people to the deadly virus. With the latest case, the individual visited Disneyland Park from 8am to 4pm and Disney California Adventure Park from 3pm to closing at 9pm on January 22. A spokesman for the Orange County health department said: 'People who were at these locations during the date and times listed above may be at risk of developing measles from 7 to 21 days after being exposed.' This is the third case of measles reported in the region this year. Dr Anissa Davis, deputy county health officer for Orange County, said: 'Because measles is highly contagious, it can spread quickly within communities, even among those who havent traveled. 'There are populations who cannot receive the measles vaccine whether due to age, health conditions or allergies. Those individuals may face significantly higher health risks when exposed to the virus.' Measles exposure at the Disney Parks was first reported last week, when an infected foreign national came through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and visited Disneyland in Anaheim, California, the Orange County Health Care Agency said last weekend. While infectious, the person visited Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on January 22 (file photo) While infectious, the person visited Goofy's Kitchen in Disneyland Hotel from 10.30am to 1.30pm on Wednesday, January 28, and Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park from 12.30pm to closing at 9pm on the same day. The international traveler arrived at LAX on Monday, January 26, at the Tom Bradley International Terminal B on Viva Aerobus flight No 518 at gate 201A and may have exposed people at the terminal between 10.45pm and 1am Tuesday, according to the County of Los Angeles Public Health. Disneyland Park has an average of 47,500 guests per day with a maximum capacity of 85,000. Disney California Adventure Park has an average of 27,500 guests per day with a maximum capacity of 51,000. Officials are urging people who were in these locations during this time to check their immunity status, either through prior infection or vaccination, and monitor for symptoms. California has recorded nine confirmed measles cases this year, but the recent news comes as the US battles one of the worst resurgences of measles since it was declared eliminated in the early 2000s. South Carolina's outbreak of measles, which causes the distinctive rash pictured above, has surpassed a massive surge seen in Texas last year (stock image) As of February 6, 2026, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has recorded 920 measles cases since October 2025, surpassing a massive outbreak in Texas last year that infected over 800. Of these, 706 cases have been reported in 2026 alone, according to DPH. There are currently 277 people in quarantine and eight in isolation, a decrease from more than 400 in quarantine and 20 in isolation the week before. No deaths have been reported in the state or nationwide so far in 2026. There were three deaths in 2025. So far in 2026, measles cases have also been reported in Maine, Nebraska, Georgia, Oklahoma, Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Texas, Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Idaho, North Carolina, Florida, Washington, Arizona and Utah. Disneyland Park has an average of 47,500 guests per day with a maximum capacity of 85,000 Cases in North Carolina, Washington and California have been linked to the South Carolina outbreak. Measles is an infectious, but preventable, disease caused by a virus that leads to flu-like symptoms, a rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body, and, in severe cases, pneumonia, seizures, brain inflammation, permanent brain damage, and death. The virus is spread through direct contact with infectious droplets or through the air. Patients with a measles infection are contagious from four days before the rash through four days after the rash appears. The US formally eliminated measles in 2000, meaning there had been no community spread in 12 months, due to widespread MMR vaccine uptake. Enclosed areas like airports and planes are extremely risky locations for disease transmission, as the measles virus spreads via airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A deadly virus surging in a luxury vacation destination has prompted major travel warnings, advising all travelers to practice advanced precautions. The CDC has issued a stark health alert for travelers to the Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean famous for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches, as well as Suriname, a small country on the northeast coast of South America. The warning centered on a significant outbreak of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus that is seeing a concerning resurgence in this luxury destination. The advisory places Suriname and the Seychelles under a Level 2 threat, urging all visitors to implement a strict, multi-layered defense against mosquito bites 24 hours a day, as the primary Aedes mosquitoes bite aggressively during daylight hours. While the CDC did not specify what precautions travelers should take, a Level 2 warning typically requires using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants and ensuring hotel rooms or home rentals are fully sealed with screens or air conditioning. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same species that spreads dengue and Zika. Infection brings on a series of debilitating symptoms, including high fever and severe joint pain. Headaches, muscle aches, swelling and rashes are also common. While most acute symptoms subside within a week, a substantial portion of sufferers experience persistent and painful arthritis that can linger for months or even years. The onset of chikungunya symptoms typically occurs three to seven days following a bite from an infected mosquito. The CDC specifically highlighted that certain groups face a much higher risk of severe complications, including older adults over 65, individuals with underlying medical conditions such as hypertension or heart disease and, most critically, newborns and pregnant people. A sanitation worker is pictured spraying insecticide to prevent the spread of chikungunya in Dongguan, Guangdong Province of China. The country implemented Covid-style surveillance and infection response efforts, including the widespread spraying of insecticides The Seychelles sees roughly 11,000 tourists from the US every year, while Suriname receives between 8,000 and 11,000 annually. Deaths due to chikungunya in the US are extremely rare less than one in 1,000 with almost all reported cases being travelers returning from, or visiting, areas with outbreaks. Rare locally acquired cases due to infected mosquitoes have occurred in Florida in 2014 and Texas in 2015. Last year, Florida health officials confirmed more than 320 cases related to international travel as well as a case of locally-acquired disease. The first confirmed locally acquired case of chikungunya due to infected mosquitoes in Texas was reported in June 2016 in a Cameron County resident who became ill in November 2015 without traveling. Most recently, in September 2025, New York health officials reported that a 60-year-old Hempstead, Long Island woman was diagnosed with a suspected case the previous month. Having not traveled off the island, lab tests have since confirmed she contracted the virus locally, marking the first locally acquired case ever recorded in New York City. Three additional people in New York tested positive for chikungunya in 2025 after returning from countries where the virus is known to circulate, according to the the city's Department of Health. Federal health officials issued a similar travel warning in early December 2025 for Sri Lanka and another in August for Guangdong Province, China Globally, there were 229 deaths attributed to the virus as well as nearly 486,000 infections. The above map from the CDC shows Suriname, a country in South America where chikungunya has been detected. The CDC has issued a level 2 travel advisory for the country Seychelles, a country off the coast of Africa, is pictured above. The CDC has issued a level 2 travel advisory to Americans (stock image) For a significant number of patients, around 40 percent, the severe joint pain evolves into a chronic, rheumatoid arthritis-like condition. This can persist for months, years or even become a lifelong disability. The joint pain is often so intense that patients assume a stooped or contorted posture and have difficulty walking or performing basic tasks. The pain often affects both sides of the body and commonly targets the hands, wrists, ankles and knees. This persistent inflammation can lead to joint stiffness, swelling and erosion visible on X-rays, profoundly impacting mobility, work ability and quality of life. Although rarer, severe cases can involve the nervous system, leading to encephalitis, or brain inflammation, meningitis, seizures and Guillain-Barre syndrome, a serious autoimmune disorder in which the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks its peripheral nerves. The CDC noted that a chikungunya vaccine is now available and is recommended for travelers visiting outbreak areas. This represents a crucial tool for prevention, though the advisory includes specific guidance for pregnant individuals, generally recommending waiting until after delivery. Pregnant travelers, especially those near their due date, to reconsider travel to the affected areas entirely. Travelers must monitor themselves for symptoms during their stay and for up to two weeks after returning home, seeking medical attention immediately if fever or joint pain develops. Alarmed about the continued spread of the chikungunya virus, US health officials have issued more travel advisories, warning Americans to take caution when traveling. Last week, the CDC issued two new level 2 travel warnings for the Seychelles and Suriname, advising all travelers to practice advanced precautions. Last year, a chikungunya virus outbreak began in China, when the country faced what was believed to be its largest outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease. More than 16,000 cases were reported in China and the CDC issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the country, urging Americans to take extra precautions when visiting the region. Further advisories followed for Kenya, Cuba, Madagascar, Somalia and Sri Lanka. While the CDC did not specify what precautions travelers should take, a Level 2 warning typically requires using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants and ensuring hotel rooms or home rentals are fully sealed with screens or air conditioning. Globally since 2025, there have been more than 240,000 chikungunya cases, and 90 chikungunya-related deaths have been reported in 16 countries. Below, Daily Mail reveals everything you need to know about chikungunya virus: The epicenter of the chikungunya virus outbreak last year in China was the city of Foshan, on China's southern coast, where heavy rains and warm temperatures have led to an explosion in the mosquito population Your browser does not support iframes. What is chikungunya virus and where did it start? Chikungunya virus is primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, the same species that carry dengue and Zika viruses. Concern over the virus was first raised last summer, when China began seeing an outbreak of the virus. At the time, Roger Hewson, virus surveillance lead at the UK's Wellcome Sanger Institute, said it was the largest-ever outbreak in China. To combat the spread of the virus, Chinese officials had ordered travelers from Foshan, the epicenter of the outbreak, to undergo a 14-day home quarantine, similar to Covid restrictions, but that has since been withdrawn. Infected patients were being isolated in hospital wards and covered with mosquito nets. They were required to remain there for a week or until they tested negative, if sooner. Images also showed Chinese state workers spraying clouds of disinfectant around city streets, residential areas and construction sites where people may come into contact with infected mosquitoes in or near standing water. Drones were also reportedly being used to hunt down insect breeding grounds and spray insecticide, and residents were asked to empty bottles, flower pots or other outdoor receptacles that may collect water. Failure to comply with any restriction was leading to fines of up to $1,400 (10,000 Yuan), and locals were threatened to have their electricity cut off, according to state media. The virus is rarely fatal but can cause debilitating symptoms. What are chikungunya virus symptoms? The CDC has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for China, urging Americans to take extra precautions when visiting the region Symptoms of chikungunya virus include headache, nausea, rash (as seen above) and muscle aches About 15 to 35 percent of people infected with the virus are asymptomatic, the CDC reports. The incubation period is typically three to seven days, and the most common symptom is a sudden onset of a fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit (39 degrees Celsius). Other symptoms of chikungunya virus include headache, nausea, rash, muscle aches, swelling and redness of the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye and inner eyelids) and joint pain that is sometimes severe and debilitating in the hands or feet. In severe cases, life-threatening complications involving the heart and brain can occur such as inflammation, irregular heartbeats and organ failure. Symptoms usually last seven to 10 days, but patients may experience lifelong complications such as persistent joint pain. Those experiencing symptoms or who think they are infected with the virus should contact their primary care provider or visit a hospital. Infections can be diagnosed through a patient history, symptoms, blood tests and serum tests. Is the virus in the US? The above compares chikungunya symptoms to those from Zika virus and Dengue, which are both also spread by mosquitoes Chikungunya virus is rare in the US and is almost always in people traveling to the US or returning to the US from countries where the virus is more common. Last year, there were 466 travel-associated cases and one locally acquired case in a woman from Long Island. In September 2025, New York health officials reported that a 60-year-old Hempstead, Long Island woman was diagnosed with a suspected case the previous month. Having not traveled off the island, lab tests have since confirmed she contracted the virus locally, marking the first locally acquired case ever recorded in New York City. Three additional people in New York tested positive for chikungunya in 2025 after returning from countries where the virus is known to circulate, according to the the city's Department of Health. Before that, a locally acquired case hadn't been reported in the US since 2015 in Texas. No deaths have been reported. The Pan American Health Organization warns that chikungunya cases are on the rise across the Americas with hotspots in Brazil and Bolivia. What is the CDC saying? The above map shows the area in China where US travelers are being advised to take enhanced precautions because of the outbreak The CDC is warning Americans to take extra precautions when traveling to high-risk areas. The agency issued the first level 2 travel alert in the summer of 2025 for China, which has since been removed. Chikungunya-related travel advisories currently still in effect from 2025 are for Cuba and Sri Lanka. Health officials say that US travelers are also at elevated risk of exposure to chikungunya in Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, and Thailand. A Level 2 Advisory for travel viruses from the CDC means travelers should 'Practice Enhanced Precautions' for their destination. This indicates a heightened health risk due to specific disease outbreaks, and travelers should take extra measures to protect themselves. The agency is advising travelers to wear insect repellent, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and to stay in places with air conditioning. Travelers are also been advised to get vaccinated against chikungunya, with two vaccines available that have been approved in the US. Dr Louisa Messenger, a mosquito researcher, told this website: 'People should be concerned about these diseases, wear topical repellents, wear long sleeves, and get vaccinated against them if they can.' The CDC says that pregnant women should avoid traveling to high risk areas because they are at higher risk of complications from the virus. A staff member carries out disinfection work at a hospital amid an outbreak of chikungunya virus in Foshan, Guangdong Province of China How is the disease treated? There is no specific treatment for chikungunya virus, though there are several options being investigated, according to the CDC. Doctors instead focus on trying to ease symptoms through rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relief medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol). For people who continue to experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers, steroids and physical therapy are typically the course of treatment. There are two vaccines available for chikungunya virus and they are recommended for people visiting areas with an outbreak or that may pose a higher risk of infection. A woman who has saved over $1million at age 30 shared the simple strategies she used to build her seven-figure net worth. Michela Allocca, 30, from Chicago, Illinois, had a knack for saving and finances even when she was little. As a child she often collected coins for her piggy bank, and in her free time she would sell lemonade or cookies from a stand at the end of her driveway. When she got her first job after college, she started saving and investing in her 401k immediately. She worked as an analyst in the financial industry and earned about $65,000 a year, which she described as 'a standard entry level salary for the industry.' She started out by setting a goal of saving $1,000 a month as an 'emergency fund,' which she has described as 'challenging but possible at the time.' As she moved up in the industry, and her salary and knowledge of finances grew, Allocca began 'saving and investing more aggressively.' By age 25, she had saved up her first $100,000. All the while, she began to notice that so many of her friends were coming to her with 'money questions.' That's when an idea hit her: She could use her knowledge to help others across the globe build up their savings. Michela Allocca (pictured), 30, from Chicago, Illinois, has over $1 million and helps others save through her business Break Your Budget In 2020, Allocca launched an Instagram account called Break Your Budget, and she started sharing her budgeting tips and tricks. It immediately took off. 'So many of my friends were coming to me with money questions I think because I was the one in the group working in the financial industry,' she explained during a recent interview with the Daily Mail. 'I realized that there weren't really any women online sharing money tips, yet so many young women had the same questions. 'I was learning so much at work that others weren't, so I decided to start sharing what I was learning on Instagram and it snowballed from there.' Allocca's account quickly became a massive success, and by April 2022, she realized she was making more money from posting on social media than she was at her job. She then quit corporate to focus on Break Your Budget full time. The account now has over 397,000 followers and has become a booming online business. Allocca told the Daily Mail she has since 'quadrupled' the income she once made at her desk job. With more than $1million in the bank, she credits a few methods with helping her find financial success. First, she explained to the Daily Mail that she sticks to a zero-based budget, which is when you never allow yourself to have any 'extra money.' She shared the simple strategies she used to build her seven-figure net worth with the Daily Mail Instead, she explained that every dollar you earn is either spent or put into savings. 'A zero-based budget is when every dollar you earn minus every dollar you spend or save equals zero,' she wrote on her blog. 'It gives every dollar a purpose. In order to reach zero, you need to actually allocate the money you earn towards either an expense or a financial goal. 'As a result, you have to prioritize your goals and are no longer treating savings as "whatever is left over."' She also uses something known as the 'three bucket' strategy. This method, she said, involves dividing your budget into three main parts: essentials, financial goals and non-essentials, in that order. 'If you struggle with allocating your income within your budget, this method provides a simple framework to follow,' she wrote on the blog. 'You can keep it high-level and set monthly allocations for the three buckets, or you can dive deeper and track categories within each bucket.' In addition, Allocca told the Daily Mail she tracks all of her expenses and purchases every week, which forces her to consider whether each purchase she makes is really worth it. Instead of spending $8 on a coffee or $40 on that food delivery, she focuses on investing as much of her income as she can across her retirement and brokerage accounts. 'You have to start tracking your expenses and controlling your lifestyle spend,' she told the Daily Mail. 'I have held my lifestyle pretty steady despite earning more, and as a result I've been able to invest more money each year, [which] compounds over time.' On January 29, Allocca revealed the plan she's working off of for 2026 - and along with all the details so her followers can set themselves up for success, too. The expert called it a 'strict money program' with five major steps: 1. Set a theme 'I always set a theme that's aligned with how I wanna approach using and spending my money for the year.' This year, Allocca's theme is 'refine intentionally.' 'I wanna pare down everything both physically and digitally,' she said in her video. For Allocca, this includes paring down her material belongings, but also all of her subscriptions, online accounts, credit cards and anything else that is tied to her spending. 2. Stick to a consistent tracking routine Allocca called this step 'absolutely essential' for anyone who wants to make forward movements in their financial health. The expert said she has been tracking all of her 'inflows and outflows' manually in a spreadsheet for the past seven years. '[People] think I'm crazy,' she told followers. 'But let me tell you, it works.' She said that being aware of every dollar is 'the most important thing you need to be doing' in order for any progress to be made. 3. Commit to a no-buy month Allocca starts each year with a no-buy January where she did 'no shopping whatsoever.' She focused on clothes and beauty this year, she said in a January 16 Instagram video. She said it helps to reset spending and realign spending values for the year. While the financial guru has landed on the first month of the year for herself, she said you can pick any month you'd like. 4. Dedicate time to learning about personal finance To keep herself engaged and up to date, Allocca shared that she spends 10 minutes every day learning about personal finance - and said you should too. She uses that time to read news articles and topical books, but any reliable education source will do. 5. Set consumption rules Even for someone as well-versed in personal finance as Allocca, these rules are necessary to help guide how she spends her money. For example, she said, she doesn't save her credit cards on her computer, avoids shopping on her phone, and she keeps a wish list of her needs and wants to keep things intentional. By using her program as a guide and continuing to think critically about both your saving and spending, Allocca said you can build up your financial wealth - but also build lasting habits for financial health. She's amazed fans with her recent transformation, and now Karren Brady's cosmetic surgeon has revealed one of The Apprentice star's favourite treatments. Dr Rita Rakus, a London-based aesthetics specialist, took to Instagram over the weekend to share one of the ways in which Baroness Brady, 56, is able to pass for someone 20 years younger. In what appears to be a staged clip, Lord Alan Sugar's right-hand woman entered the clinic as if it were her second home, greeting Dr Rita with a familiar hug. The cosmetic surgeon, remarking on Karren's glowing appearance, said: 'I don't know if there's anything we can do.' Karren replied: 'There's always something you can do. Everyone of a certain age needs a little improvement. And so, after browsing the skincare products available at the clinic, Karren underwent the 895 Rainbow Reset, a short, pain-free 15-minute laser treatment that is said to charge cellular health and boost energy. Dr Rita's website explains: 'The non-invasive treatments work by delivering specific wavelengths of visible light to your cells, especially the mitochondria, your body's natural powerplants. 'The result? A biological effect similar to pharmaceutical drugs - but completely non-invasive and 100 per cent natural. Karren Brady, 56, has wowed fans with her recent transformation, and now cosmetic surgeon Dr Rita Rakus has revealed one of the treatments behind The Apprentice judge's new look 'Crucially, this therapy also supports the function of the vagus nerve - a key communication pathway between the brain and body that regulates stress, digestion, heart rate, immunity and mood.' The treatment is also cited as being beneficial for patients using GLP-1 weight loss medications. It's far from Karren's first treatment with Dr Rita, and in 2024, she underwent a 3,500 'non-surgical face lift' in a bid to eliminate her 'dreaded jowls'. Karren, who is the vice chairman of West Ham United, visited Dr Rita at her Knightsbridge-based clinic for EndoliftX. The non-invasive process uses a laser-emitting wire to tighten the skin - promising collagen regeneration with a 95 per cent success rate in skin tightening, according to the clinic. The television personality wanted to expel her 'dreaded jowls' and address the lower part of her face, which had started to 'drag'. And not only was she 'delighted' with the results, but less than 24 hours later, Karren went out for lunch. 'I was home straight after the treatment, and went out for lunch the next day, no bruising and just slight swelling that went down really quickly,' she said. Karren visited Dr Rita Rakus's Knightsbridge, London clinic to undergo the Rainbow Reset treatment Lord Alan Sugar's right-hand woman has shocked her fans with her new, refreshed look (seen in 2010) The minimally invasive procedure employs a unique laser fibre, thinner than a strand of hair, to tighten, lift and add definition to the skin - treating various signs of ageing across the whole body, including the lower face and neck. Karren made the decision to undergo an EndoliftX procedure after she noticed signs of ageing on her jaw and neck. 'As a woman of a certain age, I noticed the lower part of my face was starting to sag and I was starting to get the dreaded jowls people talk about,' she said. 'That was really my main concern when I went to see Dr Rakus and she recommended EndoliftX. 'Before having the treatment I feared it would be quite invasive, but it's not at all. I was home straight after the treatment, and went out for lunch the next day, no bruising and just slight swelling that went down really quickly. 'The most unexpected part of the treatment was that it didn't hurt, it didn't take very long, there wasn't any downtime, and it gave the sort of result that you'd usually only get by going in to have proper surgery. 'Just a few weeks post treatment and I feel great and I am really delighted with my results.' Dr Rakus explained: 'The results are both immediate and long-term, with the area continuing to improve for several months following the ENDOLIFTX procedure as additional collagen builds in the deep layers of the skin over time. 'The procedure lasts for under an hour, and the patient can usually return to their daily activities almost immediately with instantly tighter and lifted skin. 'The results improve over the following nine months and last up to five years.' Dr Luke Simmonds, Aesthetic Doctor at Nova Aesthetic Clinic explained the process in further detail. 'We inject a local anaesthetic into the area of skin being treated, and most people report feeling nothing during the laser treatment itself, and it has much less downtime than the surgical alternative,' he said. Luke added: 'Of course, with any procedure like this, there is some minor swelling and flushing, but usually this is very tolerable and lasts around 48 hours; however this depends on the individual's skin type and condition and patients can resume their daily activity immediately. 'Patients begin to see improvements to their skin from around four weeks after treatment, but the settled results take between three and six months to show, with some people's results continuing to improve for up to 12 months. 'We often recommend checking in every 12 months to see if you require a repeat session, but I have some patients who can go two to three years maintaining their results from just a single session.' While EndoliftX is an FDA-approved procedure, it is crucial to ensure that the original EndoliftX device is used. Instances of counterfeit devices branded similarly to EndoliftX have been reported, and these have caused severe medical complications. The mystery over Khloe Kardashian's friendship with her Good American co-founder Emma Grede has come under scrutiny amid reports the reality TV star no longer follows the British entrepreneur on Instagram. Emma, 43, has been part of the Kardashians' tight-knit circle for several years and frequently appeared on the family's hit reality series in her role as Khloe's business partner and friend. However, Khloe has not been following Emma since 2023, as fans speculated 'there's beef' between the pair. Social media users also pointed out that the Khloe in Wonderland host has seemingly distanced herself from the denim apparel brand they set up together in 2016. In addition to unfollowing Emma on Instagram, Khloe has also changed her Instagram bio so that it no longer includes any mention of Good American - sparking fan speculation 'there's beef' between its co-founders. One social media post noted Khloe has not 'done a grid post about Good American' since August 2024, while she continues to promote her collaboration with activewear brand Fabletics alongside her food company Khloud. It comes after Emma was photographed alongside Meghan Markle at a high-profile gala in Los Angeles as their joint appearance sparked renewed speculation they are working on a Kardashian-style 'mega brand' together. They stepped out together soon after Khloe and sister Kim revealed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had asked for photos of them taken at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party to be removed from social media on an episode of her podcast Khloe in Wonderland. The mystery over Khloe Kardashian's (left) friendship with her Good American co-founder Emma Grede has come under scrutiny amid reports the reality TVstar no longer follows the British entrepreneur on Instagram It comes after Emma was photographed alongside Meghan Markleat a high-profile gala in Los Angelesas their joint appearance sparked renewed speculation they are working on a Kardashian-style 'mega brand' together Kim, 44, said 'we're not ones to post without permission' while addressing the media storm triggered by the vanishing images, as a body language expert told The Daily Mail that Khloe and Kim seemed 'frustrated' by 'photo-gate' Rumours of a feud between Khloe and Emma began swirling in 2023 when they attended a Good American event in April. The pair were photographed alongside supermodel Ashley Graham - but Khloe failed to tag Emma in an Instagram post or mention her in the caption. Instead, Khloe credited Ashley as a 'crusader in the fight for inclusivity' by supporting Good American's mission of making jeans for every body type. The glaring omission led some fans to speculate Emma and Khloe's friendship had suffered a setback, with one person writing: 'Is there beef between Khloe and Emma Grede? Why isn't she tagged here? And Khloe no longer follows' The fallout has led several fans to share their theories on platforms like Reddit, where users said they 'picked [up] a weird vibe between Emma and Khloe. One user asked why Khloe seemed to be distancing herself from Good American, after they noticed she skipped a casting event for the denim wear brand, as people speculated their 'visions' had changed. Another replied: 'Ive picked a weird vibe from her on the last season of [The Kardashians] regarding GA. Emma, 43, has been part of the Kardashians' tight-knit circle for several years and frequently appeared on the family's hit reality series in her role as Khloe's Good American business partner The East London-born fashion entrepreneur is no longer part of the small group of people Khloe, 41, follows on Instagram (as of February 9) Emma, however, continues to follow Khloe on Instagram (as of February 9) 'Maybe she thought she would have more control over it My theory is that she was on the same page with Emma in the beginning, but then their visions started to drift away, and now shes a bit disappointed with the project, but will not let go due to contractual issues.' Another message read: 'I think something went down between Emma Grede and Khloe.' The Daily Mail has reached out to Khloe's representatives for comment. Emma, originally from Plaistow, east London, has amassed a $400million fortune as the mastermind behind the Kardashian business ventures. In addition to Good American, the fashion guru launched SKIMS - valued at $4 billion - with Kim in 2018 and teamed up with Kris Jenner to roll out her home care line Safety in 2021. The same year, she joined Shark Tank - the US version of Dragons' Den - as the show's first black female investor. She also became a founding investor in Kylie Jenner's clothing line Khy in 2023, as Emma has widely been credited for the success of the Kardashians' companies. The Duchess was spotted cosying up to Emma at a star-studded vegan banquet for women 'owning their power' last October In April 2025, she joined the board of former US president Barack Obama's foundation and Emma also serves as the chairwoman of Fifteen Percent Pledge. Emma went on to launch her business podcast Aspire which has featured guests like Gwyneth Paltrow, Michelle Obama, and Meghan. After the episode, titled 'Why ambition is her jam' in a reference to Meghan's lifestyle brand As Ever, the Duchess was spotted cosying up to Emma at a star-studded vegan banquet for women 'owning their power' last October. It sparked speculation that Meghan could be set to launch a Kardashian-style 'mega brand' as Emma wrote about 'women coming together to share openly, trade resources, and help each other get s**t done' on Instagram. Sources close to Ms Grede have ruled out an official collaboration, but PR guru Chad Teixeira believes their blossoming friendship could be a sign that Meghan is leaning on her years of expertise. He said: 'Meghan Markle's appearance at Emma Grede's Los Angeles dinner series is far too strategic to be a coincidence. 'The timing is significant and there's growing speculation that Meghan is preparing to launch a fashion line, and Emma Grede, who has built billion-dollar brands like Skims and Good American, is exactly the kind of collaborator who could help her do that successfully. 'When you look at the imagery and social media content surrounding the event, it's clearly not just a casual dinner. The visuals are polished, professional, and designed to frame Meghan and Emma as equals within the same creative space. That kind of staging doesn't happen by accident, it's a soft-launch strategy we often see in PR when something bigger is on the horizon.' PR expert Rebecca May added, 'Everything Meghan does is with intention she's not someone who just shows up somewhere by chance. She's known for making smart, strategic connections, and being at Emma's dinner feels very deliberate. 'Emma's world is full of women who build things brands, businesses, movements so for Meghan to be in that mix definitely suggests she's laying the groundwork for her next chapter.' Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more I remember a time I cared about what I wore under my clothes but shifting priorities, comfort needs, and body changes have meant I basically havent given my underwear drawer a second thought for the better part of a decade. It all seems to hang together and so the practical thing was obviously just to keep wearing it. But then I met Londons lingerie expert Susana Lorena AKA The Bra Whisperer - who has an international, discreet client base, spanning supermodels, actresses, broadcasters and high-profile women - and discovered just how wrong I was. A single one-on-one appointment at her Notting Hill store, Maison SL, which is completely free and took less than 10 minutes, didnt just transform my wardrobe it transformed my life. Susana Lorena, lingerie expert and founder of Maison SL, the award winning luxury lingerie and swimwear boutique maisonsl.com Ive never been blessed in the boob department, and after three children, Id never really grappled with just how much the right bra matters. Susana changed all of that. Just two new bras changed my posture, the way my clothes look and my confidence. If she can make someone with my build (that of a teenage boy) feel this good, imagine the magic she works with larger cup sizes. So, Im sharing her words of wisdom - more accurately, her rules - when it comes to bra shopping. Whether youre a AA or a GG, this is your sign to treat yourself this Valentines. You are six rules, and a new bra, away from looking and feeling years younger. 1. Do not write off underwire, you just havent met the right one Underwire often gets the blame for discomfort, but experts say poor fit is usually the issue. Underwires can feel uncomfortable when the bra is the wrong size or has been weakened through repeated machine washing. After more than 20 years fitting women, Susana has worked with multiple generations of the same families. Breast shape changes throughout life, from pregnancy to menopause, she says. When those changes happen, the bra needs to change too. 2. Confidence comes with fit, not age As a 53-year-old woman, Susana believes a well-fitting bra can transform confidence at any age. I see women come into the fitting room feeling downcast and leave standing taller, already wearing the bra theyve bought, she says. According to Susana, proper support affects far more than appearance. When a bra fits properly, posture improves and women feel more at ease in their bodies. It makes a visible difference. 3. Stop sizing up, it is not giving you lift Have you been wearing the wrong bra size all your life? Im afraid the stats would suggest so! Industry research consistently shows that around 80 per cent of women are wearing the wrong bra size, most commonly a band that is too big and a cup that is too small. This can mean losing up to 65 per cent of the support a bra is designed to provide. Sizing up often causes the bra to ride up at the back, feel uncomfortable and fail to lift the bust properly. According to Susana, lift comes from a firm, well-fitted band. If women worry about so-called back fat, the solution is choosing the right bra style for their shape, not loosening the fit, she says. The best style for the back fat prone is one that has a wider back band or what we call wings. 4. Match your bra to your outfit, not your drawer Rather than owning a drawer full of ill-fitting bras, experts recommend building a small, considered bra wardrobe. A seamless neutral bra works best under white T-shirts, while lace, cotton, microfibre and modal each suit different outfits and moods, says Susana. Having a nude, ivory or white and a black bra covers most wardrobes. 5. Structure is what makes you look younger If youre after the lifted, supported silhouette you remember fondly from your twenties, (and frankly, who isnt) structure is key. Bras with multiple seams and well-designed construction lift and shape the bust, instantly improving how clothes sit on the body. You can see good design in the details, says Susana. The materials used, the width of the straps, the height of the back and how the seams adapt to different breast shapes all contribute to support and lift. 6. Your bra should lift first, shape second A great bra should visibly lift the bust before it smooths or shapes. When the bust sits higher, the waist looks more defined, posture improves and clothes fall better. Susana says she regularly works with women looking for the perfect bra for important occasions, from being mother of the bride to an important board meeting or a crucial date with a new man. The lift provided by the right bra can instantly take years off, she says. When the bust is sitting where it should, it changes not just how a woman looks, but how she feels. That lift gives a quiet confidence, and confidence always shows. Straps should be tight until you feel a bit tension you put your finger underneath and you can see that it wont fall off your shoulder and that will help with lift. Aldi Australia is selling a Green Goddess dip - but only for a limited time A trendy food item is now being sold at Aldi Australia, with shoppers racing in-store to get their hands on it while they can. A customer was among the first to spot a 'Green Goddess' dip, which has landed in the chilled section at her local store. Sold under Aldi's popular own-brand Deli Originals, the 200g tub is priced at $2.99 and is described on the packaging as 'a creamy, herby dip'. The woman who had snapped up the 'new limited time only dip' promptly rated it in a Reddit thread as '10/10'. 'Tempted to eat the whole tub in one go,' she elaborated. 'Would be amazing as a salad dressing too, or spread on warm Turkish bread.' Sharing a picture of the new Aldi food find, she lightheartedly captioned it: 'I will go back to buy them all.' News of the dip immediately excited fellow shoppers. 'I will go to Aldi tomorrow - fingers crossed ours has this dip,' read one response. An Aldi Australia shopper excitedly shared her discovery of a new trendy Green Goddess flavour of Deli Originals dips, sold in a 200g tub for $2.99 'I'm going grocery shopping tomorrow, looks like I need to drop by ALDI.' 'Wow, they must be good if you're buying them all,' laughed another reply. An Aldi Australia spokesperson confirmed to Daily Mail that 'this delicious dip landed on shelves just a few weeks ago, and as a Limited Time Only treat, its here for a good time, not a long time.' 'For only $2.99, its a flavour-packed addition to any meal, or simply enjoyed as a tasty snack with your favourite chips or carrot sticks,' the spokesperson added. Some Aldi shoppers have already gotten their hands on the new snack food, confirming it was 'delicious' and 'fresh tasting'. 'Yes, this is amaze, can confirm,' read one reply. A number of responses also offered serving suggestions with other Aldi favourites. 'It goes well with those baked pea chips,' said one person, likely referring to Aldi-stocked Harvest Snaps. A back-of-pack image revealed that the dip's distinct green colour came from a mixture of herbs like basil, parsley, dill and mint 'I had it for dinner with the Aldi [Spinach and Cheese] Spanakopita and fresh lemon,' shared another. Others were eager to know the ingredients list, with the woman who ignited the discussion on Reddit happy to share a back-of-pack picture. According to the image, the main ingredients include cooked chickpeas, vegetable oil, spinach, and a mixture of green herbs like basil, parsley, dill and mint, giving it its distinctive colour. The dip also contains lemon juice, tahini paste, garlic, egg, vegetable seasoning, and salt, along with various other preserving and stabilising ingredients. One shopper who had tried the dip seconded that it was 'so tasty' - adding that they were already worried about how long they'd be able to enjoy it before it was discontinued. 'Does anyone know why they do limited time items? If it's popular, why not make it permanent?' they mused. The conversation also sparked some shoppers to share another brilliant Green Goddess flavoured item currently in Aussie supermarkets, this one stocked at Coles. Many replies explained they were impressed by the Coles own-brand Green Goddess Salad Dressing, which is priced at $4.70 for a 250ml bottle. The online discussion about the new Aldi dip also segued into positive remarks about the Coles own-brand Green Goddess Salad Dressing, $4.70 'That Green Goddess at Coles is literally the only reason I go there. I buy a couple of bottles and that's it. Nothing else,' one person revealed. 'It's with the salad dressings in the aisles, in a tall, skinny glass bottle,' another clarified, 'And it's the Coles brand one.' Others who 'like the Green Goddess salad dressing from Coles' speculated whether the new Aldi dip 'tastes similar to that'. 'If this dip tastes anything like that, I too would want to buy every single one on the shelf,' joked one reply. One person said their go-to combination was the Coles Green Goddess salad dressing combined with 'any variety of small tomatoes, marinated goats cheese and cucumber'. 'It actually is delicious! Drooling thinking about it,' they added. About four years ago, Green Goddess salad went viral on social media after US chef Baked By Melissa coined the name and shared her recipe. Soon afterwards, food content creators worldwide started sharing their own spin on the popular salad, which combines chopped green vegetables with a creamy dressing. Mum-of-two and fashion stylist, Jules Sebastian, shared her take on the Green Goddess salad with cabbage, chives, cucumber, and a homemade creamy green dressing after seeing it trending on TikTok Back in 2022, Jules Sebastian was even among those who shared her take on the TikTok-viral Green Goddess salad. The Australian mum-of-two and fashion stylist demonstrated making her version in a video shared to her social media channels. Jules' salad contained finely chopped cabbage, cucumber and chives. She drizzled this with a dressing containing basil, garlic, nuts, shallot, lemon juice, oil and nutritional yeast, which is blitzed together into a smooth paste. 'Today I tried out the Green Goddess salad from Baked By Melissa and wow did it live up to all the hype! Definitely try this,' she captioned the recipe video on Instagram. As teenagers, Emma and I did many of the things young lovers do. We'd share a bed, holding each other close under the duvet. Like all first loves, it felt intense and all-consuming. But Emma wasn't my girlfriend. She was my best friend. We weren't lesbians, just mates who occasionally kissed something, we told ourselves, was only for the benefit of any onlooking men. It was just a performance. Locking eyes across a pub table, those moments of obsession, was just girls being girls, right? That's what we told ourselves. I'm 42 now, but back when I was a teenager being straight was the default. Everything was binary, no space for nuance or change. It was a fact: men fancy women, women fancy men. And so, I went on to live an outwardly 'straight' life, marrying my husband and settling down. I honestly believed that I was straight. It was only in my late 30s and very much happily wed that I realised I was bisexual. Yet acknowledging that I'm bisexual doesn't change our marriage, because I want to be in it and I want to be with my husband. We've been together for 15 years and over that time we've both changed, but always choose each other. Alice Snape, 42, has been with her husband for 15 years - but as a youngster shared a bed with her female friend, Emma, and they occasionally kissed, too Yet that doesn't mean I have to block out the past. Because now I realise Emma wasn't just my friend she was one of the great loves of my life. As teenagers, though, we didn't have the language or experience to express how we felt. I dated plenty of boys, but she was the only girl. And then I went off to university, leaving Emma and our unspoken relationship back in our small hometown. We rarely saw each other after that. Briefly when I'd come back to visit, I might catch her eye from afar, mouth hello. A few times we met up, but time and distance dialed down the intensity. It's easy to drift apart when you're no longer in the same place. My '90s sex education, which consisted merely of sliding condoms on to bananas, was warped by section 28 a 1988 law passed by the Conservative government stopping schools from 'promoting the teaching of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship'. It was repealed in November 2003, but those who came of age in its claws are still feeling its reverberations. My definition of sex didn't encompass anything that Emma and I did together. I wish I'd known way back when Emma and I first kissed that you don't have to 'pick a side'. And that being married to a man doesn't mean you can't love women, too. So much between us went unsaid. But recently, at a 40th birthday party full of our old schoolmates, I realised she had always felt the same way. Standing outside a bar, passing a cigarette back and forth, she reminisced about the schooldays when 'everyone thought we were so weird'. I told her I liked being weird with her, and there was a shared look, a moment of recognition. We knew that being weird together was being in love. Emma told me that she was now in a relationship with a woman, after years with a man. Like me, she'd continued to see herself as straight until her current partner made her see who she really was. I realised I could do that too. But of course, I was married now and to a man. Did I panic? I can't say that I did. I felt a deep sense of release. This is who I am. A few months later, I was chatting to a colleague of my husband's at one of his work events. We'd been talking about how my husband is involved with schemes to make his industry more inclusive for LGBT colleagues. 'I don't want to assume,' she said, 'but maybe you're not straight?' Far from being affronted, I felt understood in a way I hadn't before. I liked it, this lack of assumption. Perhaps this was the moment I truly knew I am bisexual. All those stereotypes and myths I'd inhaled over the years, breathed in like facts, unraveled. I wish I'd known way back when Emma and I first kissed that you don't have to 'pick a side', writes Alice Snape Emma told me that she was now in a relationship with a woman, after years with a man. Like me, she'd continued to see herself as straight until her current partner made her see who she really was (picture posed by models) I realise Emma wasn't just my friend she was one of the great loves of my life, Alice admits (picture posed by models) It sent me down an internet rabbit hole. I was looking for women like me and my search led me to the Skirt Club, a women-only sex club in London. 'Bisexuality is this grey area,' founder Genevieve Le Jeune told me. 'There's a huge taboo attached to it. When I started using the label, people kept asking me: 'Why can't you choose?' She invited me to one of Skirt Club's signature parties. 'Women act differently without men,' she explained. She was right. I felt an intoxicating mix of excitement and nerves. Part of me worried I might cheat on my husband, but that wasn't why I wanted to go. I just wanted to meet the women there. See who they were and ask them how they felt. Most, Genevieve told me, had only ever been with men lots were also still in happy marriages like me. It may sound strange, but I didn't ask for permission from my husband to go. I trust him and he trusts me. We're both complicated characters deep and open-minded. Our relationship is exciting because we have character-defining experiences outside of it, too. I didn't 'come out' to him, because our years together meant he already knew who I was and how I feel about women. It didn't need to be overstated. Still, I know the parameters of our relationship. Attending this event wasn't about sex, it was about something more: self-discovery. On the evening of the party, I slipped on a silk dress and knee-high boots. As I put on my fur coat to head out the door, he called out 'have fun'. As I entered the party inside the doors of a fancy bar, one of the hostesses attached a key to my wrist. It showed that it was my first time there. This little key opens the door to finding out more about myself, I thought as I ordered a glass of wine and settled into a corner to observe. A woman in a tight red dress came over to sit next to me; she must have been in her mid -40s, and clearly on a journey of her own. As her fingertips grazed my thigh, my body tingled. 'I'd never date men again,' she said as a dancer spun around a pole on the stage behind her. All the women around me were flirting, whispering, tentatively touching. It was an interesting mix of women, from those in their 20s right up to their 50s. I noticed some of them heading off in pairs or groups upstairs. I followed, discovering a number of bedrooms. Behind one door, I caught my breath at the mass of writhing bodies. There was an intoxicating feeling of freedom filling the room no pressure to act or look a certain way for men. Before you ask, I didn't join in. Just being there was enough. What an outlet a space like that is a sex club with no men, just women who want to know more about themselves and each other without fear. I think about that evening a lot. I'm so glad I went. 'Do you think you'd get married again?' asked a friend recently as we chatted about our friend who's going through a divorce. The three of us all married to men were huddled on a table in the corner of our favourite pub, a bottle of cremant between us. 'Maybe I'd marry a woman,' I giggled as we clinked glasses and I recounted the tale of my night at the sex club. But here's the thing: sexuality isn't about acting on every desire. It's cultivating a fantasy in my mind. Occasionally, it's the erotic charge of a meaningful conversation with my husband or a woman in a tight red dress. If anything, coming to terms with my sexuality has made me fancy my husband even more than when we first met, because it's made my decision to choose him every day feel all the more conscious and he feels the same, too. He knows me like no one else ever has. I don't have to be straight to choose him. And, no, I certainly don't need to stop fancying girls. Emma's name has been changed. With the rise of Mickey Mouse degrees and spiralling student debt, many young people will be questioning whether heading to university is really the right choice for their future and, increasingly, looking towards alternative routes into higher education and employment. Apprenticeships can be a brilliant gateway into certain careers, with the added bonus of not leaving those who get on to them saddled with debt. These schemes exist across various industries and range from trade and skills-based roles all the way to so-called degree-apprenticeships that place you in high-paid corporate roles, such as in finance or pharmaceuticals. In many schemes, apprentices can gain a fully funded degree while learning on the job and earning a salary. Youngsters end up with a degree-level qualification alongside three or four years of on-the-job training. These degree apprenticeships offer a direct route into graduate level positions but as a result can be incredibly competitive. Increasingly popular with middle-class families, many of the top degree apprenticeships are now even more competitive than places at Russell Group universities, according to the Education Policy Institute. The placements can be highly lucrative, with graduates earning on average 37,000 just one year after completing the course compared with 18,555 among those who study for traditional degrees. Here, we take a look at some of the best apprenticeship schemes in Britain, how much they pay - and what you need to do to secure a place. In many schemes, apprentices can gain a fully funded degree while learning on the job and getting paid a salary Many major accountancy companies are now investing in school-leaver schemes to develop talent from the ground up Accountancy For years, having a graduate degree was the easiest way into a career in accounting. But today, major companies are increasingly investing in school-leaver schemes to develop talent from the ground up. Accountancy apprenticeships are notoriously competitive but can provide a direct route into well-paying roles for maths- and business-minded students. When it comes to accounting, the big four firms PwC, EY, Deloitte and KPMG are taking the lead. All four offer degree apprenticeships, which allow you to work towards an undergraduate or masters degree while working. Most combine full-time employment with part-time university study and typically last three to four years, while tuition fees are paid by the employer. Of the big four, PwCs programme ranks the highest, coming 10th on the Department for Educations top 100 apprenticeship employers list. EY and KPMG are both in the top 100. The ranking is based on criteria such as feedback from participants, intake numbers and achievement beyond the programme. PwC offers both a degree apprenticeship scheme and a flying start degree programme. Unlike the degree apprenticeship scheme, the flying start programme is unfunded, but candidates do still receive a salary, starting at around 19,000, according to Glassdoor, which increases with experience. Students are paid only for the months they work at PwC. PwC itself doesnt reveal salary information for the courses. While students will have to fund their three-year flying start course themselves, PwC offers accommodation if required and some partner universities offer reduced fees. The flying start course offers a degree from universities in London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Reading. Students study at university for two terms each academic year, and spend the other term in full time work at PwC. Degree apprentices, meanwhile, will earn a starting salary of 21,000 at PwC, according to data from jobs site Indeed, and could get a permanent role once theyve completed their four-year course of studies. Apprentices spend one day a week studying, and one week per term on campus. The rest of the time they work within their team at PwC. You can apply for PwC via UCAS - the official higher education applications portal - and pick from multiple Flying Start programmes, with each university counting as one of your UCAS options. Applications for the 2027 academic year will open in May. Applicants will face a selection process that includes assessments, interviews and an immersive assessment centre - where you are given different tasks to get a feel for what a working day at the company might be like. You need AAB grades at A-level to apply. PwC says apprenticeship programmes are not currently open for new applicants. When they open in the autumn, they will appear on PwCs website. Graduate accountants at the big four typically start on a salary of 28,000 to 35,000 a year in London, rising to 45,000 to 65,000 for seniors and 60,000 to 80,000 for managerial roles. The apprenticeship courses are offered at a number of universities, depending on the type of course A number of tech companies offer degree apprenticeship programmes Banking The banking sector offers some of the best graduate programmes in Britain. Many banks offer schemes across their different services and for all levels of training, in everything from finance, economic crime, data science, technology engineering and fraud to corporate and commercial banking. They take between one and four years to complete. Santander, for example, offers apprenticeship schemes ranging from level 1 (foundation courses equivalent to five GCSEs at grades D-G) all the way to level 6 (equivalent to degree level). Lower-level apprenticeships can be applied for with no prior experience, whereas those at a higher level have stricter requirements, with candidates often needing three A-levels to be eligible. Each course will have its own set of requirements. Top roles include those offered by investment banks the likes of German group Deutsche Bank, American firm JP Morgan and Swiss group UBS. JP Morgans financial services apprenticeship scheme offers a four-year programme in London, Bournemouth or Edinburgh within its investment operations, technology, compliance or finance teams. As of 2021, JP Morgan accepted more than 120 apprentices across its schemes covering both finances and technology. Salaries start at 21,000, according to Glassdoor data. JP Morgan doesnt reveal salaries itself. Those who complete the course will earn a degree from either Exeter or Edinburgh-based Heriot-Watt, depending on the route they take, and could be offered a full-time position after completion. According to Glassdoor, JP Morgan offers average salaries between 52,000 and 80,000 for full-time investment banking analyst roles. Applications typically open in late September. When applications are open, they can be made on JP Morgan's website. Prospective candidates can sign up to JP Morgans newsletter to find out when applications for the scheme open. Science Apprentices can also jump into the pharmaceutical world through courses in engineering and science at leading drugmaker companies. AstraZeneca currently has apprenticeship roles open in both its Macclesfield and Cambridge campuses. These programmes cover both laboratory scientist positions and quality control positions across microbiology, pharmaceutical development, supplier management, biopharmaceuticals and genomics. All of these roles are level 6 qualifications, meaning they are equivalent to a bachelors degree, and come with a 24,570 salary, a benefits fund and a bonus, which is listed at 8 per cent of annual salary for some roles. Degree apprentices can really rise up the ranks. For example, Karen Capper, who is now senior director of microbiology science and technology at the firm, started as a degree apprentice in 1990. Part-time learning on the course is fully funded by AstraZeneca. Roles can be applied for on their website. Similar degree apprenticeship roles are offered by other pharma giants such as Pfizer and GSK. Pfizer, for example, has a clinical trials apprentice programme which offers 20,500 per year, and a fully funded Applied Science BSC from the University of Kent. Apprenticeship programmes for most pharmaceutical firms are currently open for the academic year starting in September, and close as early as February 15. Both AstraZeneca and Pfizer ask for BCC grades at A-level as a minimum. Pfizer applications can be made on its website. Senior scientist roles at pharmaceutical companies typically pay between 43,000 and 57,000, according to graduate site Prospects. Tech and AI Students can also secure work at the companies at the forefront of AI, computer science and software development, with a number of tech companies offering degree apprenticeship programmes. For example, French IT firm Capgemini is offering a four-year degree apprenticeship from Manchester Metropolitan University alongside a paid full-time role. The firm offers roles in both user experience (UX) and Digital and Technological Solutions. UX roles focus on designing software that fits with the needs of users, while Digital and Technology Solutions focuses on developing software and systems for businesses, including software engineering, cybersecurity and data analytics. The courses, based in Telford, Shropshire, and Worthing, West Sussex, will pay 20,000 per year, increasing annually, and are fully funded. Capgemini is ranked as one of the Department for Educations top 100 apprenticeship employers. You can apply through their website. Meanwhile, JP Morgan also offers technology degree apprenticeships with routes into software engineering, network engineering, cybersecurity, data analytics, business analysis and IT consultancy. Glassdoor says these roles start at 22,000. Cybersecurity analyst roles at JP Morgan, for example, offer an average base salary of 89,771 for senior employees with ten years of experience, according to careers site Levels.fyi. The course offers a BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions from the University of Exeter and potential for a full-time role upon completion. The apprenticeships can be completed in either London or Bournemouth. Applications are currently closed and will open in the autumn on the JP Morgan website. Lower-level apprenticeships are often more accessible, whereas those at a higher level have stricter requirements Engineering Engineering firm Rolls-Royce has leading apprenticeship schemes in both broad engineering and manufacturing engineering. Both four-year programmes pay 22,990 annually and are based in Bristol. Rolls-Royce roles focus on both the civil aerospace sector and on defence. Upon completion, candidates will earn a BEng in Mechanical Engineering with Manufacturing degree, or a BEng in Aerospace Engineering. Rolls-Royce apprenticeships for the coming academic year are currently closed. Applications typically open in late autumn on its website. Rolls-Royce programmes require three A-levels at C or above, including one in maths, engineering or science. Currently, the European defence sector is booming, and many companies operating in this space could prove great options for degree apprenticeships. For example, BAE Systems offers a number of degree apprenticeships, including in digital engineering, Aerospace engineering and manufacturing engineering. BAE ranks in second on the list of top 100 apprenticeship employers. Manufacturing engineering roles offer a starting salary of up to 25,688 in its Sunderland location, with annual salary progression throughout the degree course. Upon completion, candidates will earn a manufacturing engineer degree as either a BEng or BSc. Applicants also need three A-levels at C or above, including a STEM subject. Meanwhile, digital engineering positions offer 23,493 per year. These roles are based in Coventry, with courses starting in September. Digital engineers work on BAEs submarines projects, with the firm delivering four submarines to the Royal Navy over the next half a decade, candidates will work on programming, software development and testing. Applications close at the end of February and candidates can apply on their website. And one of the easiest to bag Not all apprenticeships qualify you for a degree, but they may still be worth considering. Transport for London offers some of the best schemes around, which run from level 2 up to level 6. However, unlike many lower-level apprenticeship schemes, starting pay isnt low. In fact, level 2 apprenticeship salaries start at 27,029, and can be as high as 27,944 for London Underground jobs. All apprenticeship courses offer professional qualifications. The London Underground track apprenticeship, for example, is a two-year course in which apprentices will work on tracks to ensure the safety and performance of the rail network. The only requirements are a minimum of two GCSE pass grades in maths and English language, including if you are working towards these (proof of predicted grades is required). Higher level positions are available in transport planning, project controls, project management, finance, civil engineering and arboriculture. While starting salaries are similar to lower level apprenticeships, the ceiling for these roles is much higher. A TfL civil engineer graduate, for example, can expect to earn 32,250 in their first year, rising to 33,500 in their second year and reaching 37,250 in their third year. Courses start in September, with applications currently open here. UK steel firms will still pay 25 per cent more for electricity than European rivals even after government intervention to help with sky-high bills, industry bosses say. From April, Britain's most energy-intensive industries, including steel, will receive a rebate for 90 per cent of electricity network costs, in line with measures in France and Germany, and up from 60 per cent. Network charges will fall to 2.17 per MWh on average, compared to 0.85 per MWh in France and 2.56 per MWh in Germany. Sky-high bills: UK steel firms will still pay 25 per cent more for electricity than European rivals even after government intervention But trade body UK Steel says the help is not sufficient, as the disparity in wholesale electricity prices will still add 26m to its members' bills compared with France. Ministers insist the Government 'sees a bright future for steel-making in the UK'. Business rates increases could be the 'final nail in the coffin' for Britain's beauty and hair salons, Rachel Reeves has been warned. Millie Kendall, chief executive of the British Beauty Council, has written to the Chancellor to call for 'an immediate extension of the protection being shown to the hospitality sector'. She warned that significant tax increases are making it 'impossible' for salons to retain jobs and make a profit. Kendall told the Daily Mail it was 'devastating' that a 15 per cent discount on rates bills has been offered only to pubs and music venues, which the Chancellor announced last month after an outcry that saw more than 1,500 publicans ban Labour MPs from their premises. Cutting back: Millie Kendall has warned Rachel Reeves that significant tax increases are making it 'impossible' for salons to retain jobs and make a profit But the beauty sector is also struggling, having already been left reeling after a surprise increase in employers' National Insurance contributions in the 2024 Budget. Higher taxes on the sector stand to hit women the hardest, as 86 per cent of its businesses are female-owned. Kendall said: 'We have got to do something to lower those costs. There are only going to be more empty premises.' Defence firms have complained to the Bank of England that business is stalling, in the latest evidence that a hoped-for government spending boost has yet to materialise. A survey conducted by the Bank's network of agents said that 'defence contacts report new orders are slow to progress'. The comment part of a wider report into business conditions across the UK economy appears to confirm the exasperation of defence companies with the Labour Government. Industry body ADS told the Daily Mail it was 'a difficult period for industry' as it endures an 'idle phase'. While the Government has promised to ramp up defence spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), firms are yet to see any evidence of the increase. Last month, a senior defence source told The Mail on Sunday that small businesses in the sector were at their most downbeat for two decades while even larger operators are 'deeply frustrated'. While some firms have been boosted by strong export orders, others more reliant on demand from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) are struggling as orders fail to materialise. High-flyer: An RAF Eurofighter Typhoon ascends, but government spending in the defence sector has still not taken off There has been alarm over reports of a 28billion hole in the Government's spending plans. And there is also concern about a delay in Labour's investment strategy fleshing out its commitment to raise the defence budget. Many had hoped for the plan to be released by the end of last year, but some think it will now happen next month. It represents an alarming gap between rhetoric about defence and the reality experienced by firms. Some fear spending could be 'cut to the bone', with key programmes axed. Samira Braund, defence director at ADS, said: 'It is a difficult period for industry and as we continue through this idle phase, it is hard to see how the situation will improve in the near future. 'While we recognise the current fiscal environment is challenging and appreciate the difficult choices that must be made, the Government must carefully consider what is at stake. 'The pockets of growth emerging in the defence sector are reassuring, albeit largely driven by exports, but it is essential that this demand is also reflected here in the UK.' The MoD has previously said, in response to the complaints, that it has signed more than 1,000 major defence contracts since the election and that it will raise spending on smaller businesses by 2.5billion by 2028. Even his worst enemies could not accuse raider Boaz Weinstein of Saba Capital of giving up too easily. Quite the reverse the US hedge fund manager does not seem to have an off switch. Weinstein has been agitating to seize control of a string of UK investment trusts without having to pay a takeover premium. He laid siege to seven last year and was roundly repulsed. Despite this, his campaign continues. The battle raging over Herald, one of his targets, is shaping up to be one of the most significant ever in the 150-year-old sector. His methods show deep contempt for British private investors. Investment trusts look after about 264billion of assets, with a heritage of financing innovation, including railroads in the US in the 19th century. Herald continues that tradition, providing capital for much-needed tech share floats in the UK. Yet City regulator the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) seems content to stand by and let Herald fall into the hands of a ruthless hedge fund boss using Trojan Horse tactics. It is imperative that he be stopped. Saba has a stake of just more than 30 per cent in Herald, which normally would trigger a requirement for it to launch a formal takeover offer. On the attack: Even his worst enemies could not accuse raider Boaz Weinstein of Saba Capital of giving up too easily Ironically, this is not the case due to 'innocent bystander' rules: the stake edged over the 30 per cent threshold because of share buybacks by Herald. It has just scuppered an attempt by the trust board to let it and any other investors who wanted to leave sell their holdings at net asset value. That proposal would also have enabled investors who wanted to stay with Herald to do so, albeit in a smaller fund. The Herald board is now in discussions with Saba to try to find a solution. If those fail, there is a nuclear option which will result, in effect, in the winding up of the trust. That would be wanton damage inflicted on investors in a trust that has performed much better than its aggressor, Saba's Capital Master Fund. The latter has returned 150 per cent since it was set up in April 2009, compared with more than 900 per cent at Herald. I won't trouble readers with the technicalities, but City regulators could take action if they chose to. They could tighten up voting rules in such a way as to negate Saba's strategy of installing its own directors on trust boards, which at the moment gives them carte blanche to change the managers and the strategy to their own advantage. Raiders such as Saba could be blocked from doing so under related-party rules. Another reform would be to give platform investors a default option to vote in line with independent board recommendations. That would overcome the hassle that so often mutes the small-shareholder voice. The point is that regulators need to back besieged trusts and beat raiders at their own game. This is not about shielding complacent boards; it is about preventing harm to private investors. Weinstein is using short-term tactics to destabilise long-term funds that are one of the few routes allowing ordinary people to take a stake in exciting new technologies, now as in the Victorian era. If the Government is serious about wanting the UK to be a winner in the tech race, it should be concerned about Saba. The fate of Herald may be a watershed for investment trusts. I hope the regulators are galvanised into action before it is too late. Ocado is reportedly planning to cut up to 1,000 jobs as part of a cost-cutting drive after a difficult year for its warehouse business. The group, which runs robotic warehouses for supermarkets, is reportedly in talks about redundancies that would amount to 5 per cent of its global workforce. The majority of cuts are expected to be in the UK head office, including technology roles and some back office staff, according to the Sunday Times. However, no final decisions have been made and Ocado plans to consult with its staff over any cuts. It is understood that any cuts will affect the technology side of the business, and not retail. It comes after Ocado unveiled plans last year to scale back its research and development workforce, with plans to also reduce its technology costs from around 290million in 2024 to 60million by 2027. Ocado is reportedly planning up to 1,000 job cuts as it tries to slash costs A spokesman for Ocado said: We regularly review our operations to ensure were set up for long-term success. 'If and when decisions are made that affect our people, we are committed to communicating with them directly and ensuring they are supported throughout. The UK-listed retailer sells technology to retailers to pick and dispatch online food orders from robotic warehouses. It also runs its own grocery firm in partnership with Marks & Spencer. Investors are losing patience with Ocado as new openings with existing partners and further technology deals have failed to materialise. Its shares rose following the report but have lost 30 per cent over the last year after announcing its partners announced warehouse closures. Last month, Ocado confirmed its partner Canadian supermarket Sobeys planned to close its warehouse in Calgary, in another blow to its warehouse technology. Last year, one of its key partners, Kroger, said it would close three of its robotic warehouses across the US. It sparked the biggest drop in its share price. The pair had planned to build 20 robotic customer fulfilment centres across the US, but the roll-out has been slower than expected. The headline number looks reassuring. AIM companies raised 2.7bn in 2025, a 44 per cent jump on the year before. Trading volumes improved, the index rallied sharply off its spring lows, and several new listings delivered solid early returns. Yet read the detail of Allenby Capitals latest AIM market update and a more uncomfortable picture emerges. This was not a broad-based renaissance. It was a recovery powered by one outsized transaction, foreign buyers, and a shrinking population of quoted companies. In other words, AIM stabilised in 2025. It did not heal. London's junior market Aim stabilised last year but it is not healing, says Ian Lyall One deal made the year look better than it was The 2.7bn fundraising figure flatters to deceive. More than 1.1bn of that total came from a single transaction: Rosebank Industries reverse takeover of Electrical Components International. Strip that out and AIMs capital-raising year looks far more modest. That distortion matters because it highlights how thin activity still is beneath the surface. Further fundraises rose just 3 per cent year on year, and the median admission raise was only 3.6m. Most companies were still tapping the market for survival capital, not growth funding. AIM can function on small raises, but a market dominated by one blockbuster deal is not a healthy ecosystem. The IPO drought is easing, but only just There were 22 new joiners in 2025. That is better than the dire post-2021 years, but still miles below the long-term average of roughly 70 admissions a year. More telling is where those companies came from. Seven migrated from the Aquis Exchange. Two dropped down from the Main Market. AIM is increasingly a venue for re-listings and restructurings, not first-time flotations. Performance has been mixed. The median return from 2025 admissions was a respectable 11.8 per cent, but the dispersion was extreme. Richmond Hill Resources is up 180 per cent. Several others are down more than 50 per cent. AIM remains a market of sharp elbows, not gentle averages. The quiet crisis: more companies left than joined The most sobering number in the report is not about fundraising or performance. It is this: AIM ended 2025 with just 619 companies. That is down from 685 at the start of the year and far below the markets 2007 peak. In 2025 alone, 88 companies left AIM, four times the number that joined. Some exits were benign. Twenty-six companies were acquired. But 37 chose to delist voluntarily, nine entered administration, and several were forced out due to regulatory or adviser issues. A market that consistently shrinks, even in a recovery year, should worry policymakers and investors alike. UK plc is still on sale If there was one genuinely booming segment of AIM activity in 2025, it was takeovers. Twenty-six AIM companies were acquired, with an average bid premium of 52 per cent. Nearly half of those buyers were overseas, and North American acquirers alone accounted for almost half of the total deal value. The logic is brutal and simple. UK small caps are cheap. Sterling is weak. Ownership is fragmented. Boards are relatively bid-friendly. Public market valuations are not reflecting asset value. Until UK equities rerate meaningfully, AIM will remain less a growth market and more a hunting ground. Liquidity improved, but remains historically weak Trading volumes did tick up. The median AIM stock traded 3.3 per cent of its market capitalisation per month in 2025, ahead of 2024 but still below the post-Covid surge of 2021. In absolute terms, monthly trading values rose to 3.94bn, reversing several years of decline. That is progress, but context matters. In 2021, monthly trading averaged more than 8bn. Liquidity is no longer collapsing, but it is not yet strong enough to support a vibrant primary market. What 2025 really tells us about AIM The most honest reading of 2025 is that AIM found a floor, not a new runway. Capital is flowing again, but selectively. Investors are willing to back quality stories and credible management teams, but patience is thin. Dealmakers see value everywhere, but mainly because valuations are depressed. New listings can work, but only with the right pricing and narrative. AIM survived 2025. That in itself is an achievement after several punishing years. But survival is not the same as revival. Without a sustained rerating of UK equities, stronger domestic institutional participation, and a return of genuine growth IPOs, AIM risks becoming a market that feeds global buyers rather than compounds long-term capital. The danger is not that AIM collapses. It is that it slowly fades, deal by deal, company by company, until the recovery looks like little more than an orderly exit. For all the market's breaking mid- and small-cap news, go to www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk The boss of Natwest has called for stability as Labours meltdown over Lord Mandelson leaves the Prime Minister on the brink. With doubts over Sir Keir Starmers future in No 10 pushing gilt yields higher and the pound lower, Paul Thwaite said businesses and households need stability, certainty and growth. The comments came as he completed NatWests biggest deal since its state bailout during the financial crisis in 2008 by snapping up wealth manager Evelyn Partners for 2.7billion. Shares in the lender fell 6 per cent, or 39.4p, to 620p as markets reacted cautiously though the bank insisted it had not overpaid. The deal its biggest since a tie-up with ABN Amro in 2008 creates Britains largest private banking and wealth management, and NatWest said it would transform savings and investments for its 20m customers. Evelyn, which owns the Bestinvest online platform, is being sold by its private equity owners Permira and Warburg Pincus. Plea: Natwest boss Paul Thwaite (pictured) said businesses and households need stability, certainty and growth It was previously known as Tilney, Smith and Williamson, and has 69billion in assets under management which, when combined with NatWests Coutts brand, will add up to 127billion. Thwaite said: We can help customers to make more of their money through a broader range of services, as well as helping to drive growth and investment across the economy. With the wealth held by younger generations predicted to almost double by 2030, there will be an increasing requirement for financial planning. The deal is set to bring 100million of annual savings and Thwaite said there will be areas of duplication a hint that job cuts will be on the way. It comes after NatWest returned to full private ownership last May, 17 years after the 45billion bailout in 2008. That has helped Thwaite step up deal-making, having snapped up a million Sainsburys savings, credit card and loan customers and a 2.5billion mortgage portfolio from Metro Bank in 2024. NatWest is reported to have seen off interest in Evelyn from rival Barclays, as banks eye wealth managers because their fees offset an expected decline in net interest income. The sectors attraction has also been boosted by rules allowing savings platforms to offer targeted support to customers on how to invest money without having to navigate the restrictions involved in financial advice. NatWest finance director Katie Murray said: Were very comfortable that this is not a situation where weve overpaid. But Gary Greenwood, banking analyst at Shore Capital, said: We remain cautious on the deal economics, which rely heavily on synergy delivery. Asked about political turmoil in Westminster, Thwaite said: What all businesses need, what consumers need, is stability, certainty and growth. Theyre the conditions that create the right environment so thats what I would be looking for. Thats what any business leader would be looking for. Ive got a huge jar of 1 and 2p coins. Some are from the 1970s, 80s and 90s and others are more modern. Ive seen the price of copper has gone up hugely in recent times. My question is, is the copper scrap value worth more than face value of the coins? If so, how much is a 1p or 2p truly worth? Helen Kirrane of This is Money replies: The 1p coin was one of three new coins introduced into general circulation in February 1971, when the United Kingdom adopted a new decimal currency system. The other two new coins were the 1/2p and 2p coins. One and two pence coins minted between 1971 and 1991 were made of 97 per cent copper, before rising metal prices meant the Royal Mint started using steel. One and and two pence coins minted after this were only copper-plated. Moneymaker? This reader is wondering whether their 1 and 2p coins could be rising in value The future of 1 and 2p coins was also thrown into doubt when it was revealed that the in July 2024 that the Treasury had not ordered any new coins to be minted from the Royal Mint and did not expect to order any new 1p and 2p coins in the coming years. The key coins to look at in your collection are those from the 70s, 80s and early 90s as these have the highest copper content. There was also a 1998 two pence struck in copper. One special coin that could earn you some cash as a collectible is the the 1983 'New Pence' 2p coin. The 2p design used to read 'New Pence,' but this was changed to 'Two Pence' in 1982. A small number of 1983 coins were mistakenly made with the old 'New Pence' wording, and these can be worth up to 1,000. For expert advice on your copper coin conundrum, we spoke to Gregory Edwards, a coin expert at auctioneers Spink and Philip Mussell, director of coin news publication Token Publishing. How much are 1p and 2p copper coins worth? Helen Kirrane replies: Metal prices have surged over the past year. Gold and silver in particular have repeatedly hit new record highs. But the copper price has also soared in recent months, rising to an all time high of more than $13,000 a tonne in January 2026. This is due in part to high demand for the red metal. Electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure such as wind turbines and solar panels, and the huge data centres required for the roll-out of artificial intelligence all require large amounts of copper. Gregory Edwards replies: Pre-1992 copper coins - the 97 per cent copper blend - are worth more than their face value and they have been for some time. Roughly speaking, the intrinsic content is about 100 per cent above the face value for a penny and the same for a two pence - so, a 1p could be worth 2p and a 2p worth 4p. Philip Mussel replies: Todays copper price is higher than it has been for a while, and whilst there are different types of copper it averages out around 5.50. A 1p weighs 3.56grams and a 2p weighs twice that at 7.12 grams. This is a throwback to the days when a coin had actual value based on its metal - so a 2p had to weigh twice a 1p. You need 280 1p coins to make a kilo and 140 2p coins. At the moment, you could make a profit of 2.70 on every kilo of copper coins. A kilo of copper 1p or 2p coins would have a face value of 2.80, but a scrap value of 5.50. This theoretically gives a pure copper penny a value of 1.958p and a 2p a value of 3.916p. But our 'copper coins' havent really been copper since 1860 when they changed to bronze, which is typically an alloy of 88 per cent copper and then 12 per cent tin. This means that straight away our coins are only worth 88 per cent of what they were had they been copper. In reality, they are worth less than that as they arent a 'pure' metal (often there are other metals in bronze too) and may require work, therefore the scrap value reduces quickly. What can you do with the coins? Gregory Edwards replies: Under Section 10 of the 1971 Coinage Act, it is illegal to melt down or break up any metal coin that is currently circulating in the UK, or has ceased to be current at any time after May 16, 1969, unless a licence has been granted by the Treasury. So you would be committing a criminal act by melting them down. Equally, scrap metal merchants usually buy and sell on the kilo and tonne of dirty and refined copper. As these coins are 97 per cent copper, you would need a substantial sum of coins to make the endeavour worthwhile. So it pays to hoard your pennies, but until the law changes, you cannot act. Philip Mussel replies: Unfortunately scrapping a kilo here and a kilo there of copper let isnt something most of the big scrappers want to deal. They are dealing in tons of the metal each day, and whilst you may find someone willing to take a kilo from you it wont necessarily be an easy task. After youve sorted all your coins to make sure that they are pre-1992, and finally found someone wholl take a few kilos of bronze from you, youre likely to be turned away when they find out its current coinage youre trying to scrap. In my opinion, its really not worth the hassle! A couple are facing a 400,000 bill over a legal battle about a bridleway their county council says runs through their property. David Moore, 63, and his wife Dr Dawn Carnell, 59, a cancer specialist, have spent six years arguing their case with the latest loss in the High Court pushing their costs to around 325,000. But they insist they are in the right and are planning to take the matter to the Court of Appeal, which would see the outlay rise to an eye-watering 400,000. The long-running dispute involves Breach House in Little Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, which the couple bought for 1.2million ten years ago and claim is now a multi-million-pound property after they spent a small fortune renovating the dilapidated house. Locals complained when a public right of way they claimed had run through the 1.75-acre grounds for at least 100 years was closed off with signs and locked gates with Hertfordshire County Council and later the Planning Inspectorate issuing rulings in their favour. The judgements have now been backed by the High Court, paving the way for the matter to move to a higher court. Mr Moore, who runs an oncology business with his wife, told the Daily Mail: The cost doesnt really come into it at this point in time. Its whether you think youre right or wrong. He added his wife supported him 100 per cent in the ongoing legal battle as both believe the council is at fault for providing inaccurate documents when they bought their home. David Moore, 63, and his wife Dr Dawn Carnell, 59, a cancer specialist, argue a bridleway open to the public doesn't run through the 1.75 acres of land they own at Breach House in Little Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire This is not me going off on some expedition into the wilderness and putting my tin hat on and saying Whatever happens, happens, Mr Moore said. This is two logical people looking at the position given in 2015 and knowing theyre correct. The bullish attitude will be a disappointment but not a surprise - to neighbours who were furious when they, along with ramblers and horse riders, found themselves unable to use the path they said had been accessible for generations. Wayne Morris, a retired Metropolitan Police inspector and now chairman of the parish council who lives next door, said he had been keeping my fingers crossed that theyd drop the matter. But he added: They will not let it go. I think with the amount that theyve spent going to the High Court that they will just carry on. Theyre so fixated on this matter now that they wont see reason and I think they will probably try to go to the Court of Appeal. The dispute between Dr Carnell and her husband with the residents began in 2019 when the route through the property was shut off. The bad blood it caused in the community saw Mr Moore whose wife works at University College Hospital in London complaining of criminal damage, including scratches on his cars, and harassment. Mr Moore and his wife, whose legal bill could top 400,000 if they take the matter to the Court of Appeal, told the Daily Mail: The cost doesnt really come into it at this point in time. Its whether you think youre right or wrong. The couple say the bridleway should run between two cottages just west of their home, which they bought for 1.2 million in 2015 before spending a large sum of money renovating it Villagers were furious when gates were locked and signs sprang up saying they weren't allowed access to the route, which they claimed had been used by the public for at least 100 years Meanwhile, the owners of the two neighbouring cottages - including Mr Morris - ploughed tens of thousands into their own legal costs. Hertfordshire County Council became involved and passed an order stating the bridleway did run through land attached to six-bedroom Breach House, parts of which date back to the 17th century, leading to the Planning Inquiry. During the four-day hearing, senior definitive map officer Gavin Harbour-Cooper revealed the council investigated the matter in 1956 and concluded the path ran through Breach House. But when the first definitive map was drawn up three years later, it showed the wrong route between the cottages, although the Definitive Statement gave the correct information. Nigel Adams, the founder of online estate agents BigBlackHen.com and whose parents owned Breach House from 1973 to 1985, said he handled the sale of the property to Mr Moore and his wife in 2015. He added: During this process, I repeatedly discussed with the Moores the existing bridleway and its route through the Breach House land. William Marques, who lived in the house in the 1960s, also recalled the bridleway passing through it. He described how he used it to get to his grandparents home because the only other route, by road, was too dangerous. Wayne Morris, a retired Metropolitan Police inspector and now chairman of the parish council who lives next door to Breach House, said he didn't think the owners will 'let it go' as they've already spent so much on the six-year legal battle A planning inspector backed an earlier ruling by Hertfordshire County Council that the bridleway did run through the grounds of Breach House. Now a High Court judge has agreed But Mr Moore told the inquiry the council had admitted in 2020 the bridleway signs by his home were wrong, so they were removed. He insisted: When I purchased the property, I was not made aware of the existence of a bridleway crossing the property. The matter was heard by the High Court on November 5 and 6, with the ruling issued this month. The judge, who referred to the inherent implausibility to the Claimants argument, refused Mr Moore and Dr Carnell the right to appeal but they can go direct to the Court of Appeal to ask for a hearing. Mr Moore, who has previously threatened civil action against the county council to recover his costs, added: Its never been our point that theres no right of way. Its the position of the right of way that weve argued. Its on the boundary as far as Im concerned. Were just people who saved up to buy a house. We followed the correct procedures. What Hertfordshire County Council have done is shoot themselves in the foot because theyve fought tooth and nail - at a cost of 1 million, Id guess to show themselves to be negligent. The council said it submitted a figure of 13,791.70 for its costs to the court. A spokesman added: 'We are pleased that the High Court has dismissed the appeal against the Planning Inspectorate's decision, which confirmed the modification order that will allow the route of this bridleway to be correctly recorded. 'If there are no further legal proceedings, then we will update the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way in Hertfordshire with the confirmed route in the New Year.' Conservative podcaster Jayme Leagh Franklin says liberal women - not men - are her fiercest critics, and she's calling out what she sees as the left's hypocrisy of claiming to champion all women while savagely attacking conservative ones. The University of California, Berkeley graduate, who worked in Donald Trump's first White House and now hosts the podcast Sincerely American, says the mockery of cabinet members like Kristi Noem as 'ICE Barbie' exposes the reality behind progressive feminism. 'I rarely have men attacking me. It's always other women,' Franklin told the Daily Mail. 'Women are the most vicious to one another, especially liberal women towards conservative women.' Franklin particularly expressed distaste for the nasty mockery of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem following escalating ICE activity in Minnesota. 'I find it funny when the left attacks Kristi Noem or any of the female members of Trump's cabinet, or anyone a part of the administration, or conservative women in general because these people claim to be feminists,' Franklin said. Critics of the president's immigration policies call Noem 'ICE Barbie' on social media and ridicule her looks. 'It's obviously from jealousy, because Kristi Noem looks amazing, and you can be beautiful and brilliant and also a hardworking person,' she said. She dismissed the left's attempt to stereotype MAGA women as 'bimbos' who simply follow their husbands or bosses. Conservative podcaster Jayme Leagh Franklin in the White House briefing room Conservative podcaster Jayme Leagh Franklin and her family with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance 'They think that we're just like women who follow exactly what our husbands say, that we don't have any political thoughts of our own. That could not be further from the truth,' she said. 'Conservative women are the most opinionated and passionate people you will meet.' Franklin launched her podcast with friend Camryn Kinsey as part of an expanding media profile that began with The Conservateur, a platform for women covering culture, fashion, faith and politics. She kicked off the new year at the White House press briefing in the special New Media seat, created for rotating conservative influencers, where she congratulated press secretary Karoline Leavitt on her second pregnancy. Leavitt's lifestyle resonates with her audience, Franklin explaineda young working mom who didn't postpone motherhood for her career. She called Trump's second administration 'the most pro-family we've seen in decades,' crediting chief of staff Susie Wiles for creating a pro-family culture in the West Wing. When young Trump-supporting conservatives first flocked to Washington during his initial term, many were single and new to the political scene. Four years later, they're backoften married with young children. 'I see them now as young families that met through the whole Trump world. A lot of people have created families through that,' Franklin said. Part of that pro-family culture includes ongoing efforts to promote health and wellness. Earlier this month, Franklin visited the White House to interview Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins about the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement. Growing up in California, her family prioritized healthnow as a mother, she's made it central to her life. Her circle of young conservative mothers are equally focused on the issue raising their own children. Franklin believes MAHA should attract people of any political stripe. Conservative podcasters Jayme Leagh Franklin and Camryn Kinsey on the set of Fox News Conservative podcaster Jayme Leagh Franklin is a big supporter of the Make America Healthy Again Movement 'I actually believe health is the number one issue in the country,' she said. 'If you have a sick country, you have a weak country.' Franklin views the women on Trump's staff and in his cabinet as role models, and Trump as an excellent boss for empowering them. She celebrated their diverse career and political backgroundsfrom South Dakota's Noem, a rancher-turned-governor, to Hawaii's Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat, veteran, and yoga enthusiast, to former wrestling executive Linda McMahon. 'It really shows how much he values diversity of thought, which is so important,' she said. She called many mainstream female media figures hypocrites for criticizing or ignoring conservative women. 'They claim to want to empower and uplift women, but only liberal women,' she said. Franklin launched her podcast as influential conservative media figures have turned on each other. Last year, Daily Wire's Ben Shapiro denounced podcasters Candace Owens, Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly, who in turn accused Shapiro of trying to 'cancel' them. But Franklin has no interest in the petty online fighting. She emphasized her podcast would respect all women and their freedom of speech, despite differing political views, and said she has zero interest in influencer fights. 'Getting into trashy fights does not make this country better. I want to be a uniter, not a divider. I just don't engage in that negativity.' Students living in Britain's Gen-Z benefit capitals have blamed handouts for making them lazy and the ability to be signed off sick with conditions such as ADHD and autism for not bothering to look for a job after they graduate. They say unemployment benefits let graduates to develop a 'why do I have to work' attitude when they can 'stay at home and get the money' Rather than being a way to get back on their feet, Universal Credit and PIP are instead being seen as a way of 'enabling' them not to seek work. A recent analysis by one think-tank found that more degree holders than ever are claiming benefits, with one in three who are saying they are too sick to work. According to The Centre for Social Justice, 707,000 people with a degree were not working and living off state benefits last year - a 46 per cent rise from pre-pandemic levels. The Daily Mail spoke to students in Bradford, Birmingham and London this week - where there are among the highest numbers of 18-24 year olds claiming benefits - in a bid to find out where things are going so wrong. Some young adults claimed that plummeting mental health among the student population, along with rising awareness and diagnoses of ADHD and autism can explain the apparent lack of ambition among some of Britain's graduates. In a bid to ease the burden of transitioning from academia to the workplace, some students are even calling for measures to be implemented to make sure they get a job when they finish their course. Victor Enejo, 25, who joined the University of Bradford last September to study Applied AI and Data Analytics, says some students fail to develop the skills employers expect. He said: 'You can come to university and pass through, but there's a difference between passing through and actually learning. Ilina Gersanu, 21, a management student at the University of Bradford a lot of people are getting degrees without thinking about getting a job afterwards Victor Enejo, 25, an applied AI and data analytics student at the University of Bradford, said some students lack the vision of knowing exactly what they need Your browser does not support iframes. 'When you are a student, you are supposed to learn some skills. But some students lack that vision of knowing exactly what they need.' Kenneth Okonya, 38, also studying applied AI and data analytics, said: 'If graduates know that benefits are there, they might just want to sit at home. 'Benefits are a contributing factor in making graduates lazy.' He added: 'People think 'why do I have to work when I could stay at home and get the money'. 'I know benefits are needed, but they can also be an enabling factor. There should be something that makes graduates want to work and not stay at home.' Ilina Gersanu, 21, who is studying a management course at the University of Bradford, said: 'A lot of people want to go to university to get a degree, but don't actually think about getting a job after. 'I know people who have gone onto universal credit after graduating.' Ilina, who wants to become a primary school teacher, admits she worries about getting a job after completing the course. She said: 'Qualifications are good, but you need experience to get a job, which is hard.' Jessica Robson, 38, and Tom Mason, 32, are staff at the University of Bradford. Tom is visually impaired and questioned how sickness claims had increased given his own experience Kenneth Okonya, 38, applied AI and data analytics student at the University of Bradford, believes 'benefits are a contributing factor in making graduates lazy' Shana Tonye-Denize, 17, is a student hoping to do a law degree in September. She said the stress of university is a risk for people's mental health Jay Stewart, 22, has recently graduated but doesn't currently have a job. He says he is fortunate to have support which means he does not need to claim benefits Lisa Bain, 58, is in the school admin team at the University of Bradford and thinks 'whatever degree you come out with, you should be employable'. 'I think some students think they have to be employable in the subject they trained in and don't consider all sorts of other positions,' she said. 'I also think the recruitment process now is so far removed from how it used to be. Everything is electronic and AI, so you're not always even sat in front of someone, which makes it harder.' On the rise in the number of people claiming sickness benefits, she said: 'There's a broader definition of sickness now. 'I think the spectrum of sickness has grown.' Tom Mason, 32, works with students in healthcare and is visually impaired. He questioned how sickness claims had increased given his own experience of the benefits system. He said: 'I get PIP and I had to go through an in-person interview in 2013 which picked apart everything and it was quite degrading. 'The system must have changed since then, because I don't see how else there can have been an increase in cases.' Jessica Robson, 38, said her degree in psychology had not led directly to a job in that field - which is a reality that many students face. She said: 'I worked in admin for ten years before moving to this role working with healthcare students.' Mark Hamilton, 55, a mature student at Bradford College, said: 'A degree does not guarantee you work now, which is a problem with the amount of debt that you can get into. 'I used to work in Asda and it's amazing how many people who are stacking shelves have just completed a degree.' Lisa Bain, 58, is in the school admin team at the University of Bradford and thinks 'whatever degree you come out with, you should be employable' However, Mark Hamilton, 55, a mature student at Bradford College, said 'a degree does not guarantee you work now, which is a problem with the amount of debt that you can get into' Birmingham hairdressing students Rue Griffiths (left), 18, and Macey Dawes, also 18, say experience is forcing more graduates out of potential jobs When asked about the rise in the number of people claiming sickness benefits, he said: 'I think there's a lot more awareness around mental health and diagnoses like ADHD and autism are more common.' In London, American Maximillian Thompson, 21, who is currently studying at Queen Mary University of London, said a lot of people are finding it difficult to get a job after graduating. 'I know a lot of people have a degree and graduate and aren't able to find a job and have to do a full 180 and switch around,' he said. 'Personally, I'm very nervous about being able to find a job after college. It's crazy, I go to one of the top schools in the United States, I worked jobs at school and have great grades and extracurricular things but I can't even get a job at a Chick-fil-A or serving ice cream. 'I think everybody is really struggling right now and it's very difficult. 'I think people are very quick to say, 'all the people going on benefits, it's laziness, it's freeloading'. I don't believe in that at all it's just things have really changed. 'And personally for me as an upcoming graduate I'm definitely very nervous about finding a job and supporting myself.' He added: 'I can really speak to that [people claiming they are too sick to work] because I have a lot of mental health, I have very strong depression and anxiety and I've been in the hospital a couple of times and it's difficult. 'I've been told by my therapist I can take a semester off school, and I want to, but in this environment I need a job. I feel like I don't have enough space or enough time to focus on my mental health where I feel like I should be because I'm so nervous about [jobs]. 'As someone who struggles with mental health it's like school and work is hard, juggling all of that is really difficult.' Shana Tonye-Denize, 17, is a student hoping to do a law degree in September. 'I feel like everyone I know who's looking for jobs actively have told me the same thing, that you apply for a job but they don't get back to you. Some people apply to like 200 jobs and they get maybe one response back and it's a rejection or something. 'It's very hard to end up getting into a certain career because of it. For example, I want to go into law but obviously, there's only so much I can do right now to get into a law career.' She added: 'I'm going to university this year but even like now where I am mental health is not really spoken about. Especially with like exam stress, they're like 'oh you just need to thug it out, or just deal with it', so I can imagine that in university it's even more stressful than it is right now. 'Because obviously it's the last step before you enter the career you want to go into but most people, they don't even get to go into a career even though they've studied like three, four years for their degree and because of that, it's like they're doing all of that for what? 'Now they're in debt for probably the rest of their lives because they can't get a job that goes into the career they've done their degree on. So it's like what even is the point? 'That's why a lot of people aren't going to university anymore, because you're going into debt, you're risking your mental health and the likelihood of you going into a job based on your degree is really low, so it's just a bit rough.' George, 31, who did not give his surname, is from Leicester but currently lives in Bethnal Green. He has a degree in property management but is retraining as a carpenter American Maximillian Thompson, 21, who is currently studying at Queen Mary University of London, said a lot of people are finding it difficult to get a job after graduating Jay Stewart, 22, who has come to visit friends from Sydney, Australia. He has recently graduated but doesn't currently have a job and says he is fortunate to have support which means he does not need to claim benefits. 'I think it's quite concerning [that so many graduates are on benefits], especially for people my age when it comes to not being able to get proper employment with what essentially is what you're kind of bred to do throughout your entire younger life,' he said. 'It's like 'oh you've got to go to school, get a degree yadda yadda yadda'. But when you're graduating and then nothing's happening after that it's kind of like 'how can I trust that that's the right way to go?' and 'if that's what I've been told to do my entire life, what am I supposed to do now?'. George, 31, who did not give his surname, is from Leicester but currently lives in Bethnal Green. He has a degree in property management from Birmingham City University but is retraining as a carpenter. 'Certainly the cost-of-living crisis hasn't helped. I have just gone back into education myself...to try and find a job which was a bit more steady and stable so I'm doing carpentry. 'That's the goal for me at least. With regards to other people I think it's tough. When I was looking for work straight from university I was struggling, I sort of picked up any old work that I could. 'I graduated with a property degree and it took me three or four years to try and get a job in that field. That was back in 2016, but yeah it's hard.' Asked whether he had friends in a similar situation, he said: 'Personally, no, I think everyone managed to find their way into what they wanted to do, but I feel, especially for the younger generation, it is a little bit more difficult.' University college Birmingham student Macey Dawes, 18, said experience was forcing more graduates out of potential jobs. The hairdressing student said: 'When you go on Indeed there's not actually any jobs going around and the ones that are you need experience for. 'No ones going to hire you if you haven't got the experience, and you can't get the experience because no one is hiring. 'I'm studying hairdressing but I work in retail. I've had friends who can't get a job because they don't have any experience. 'Even for bartending. You need experience for that but nowhere is letting you do it so you can't get the experience to start it. It's stupid, it's probably why the rates are so high.' Rue Griffiths, also a hairdressing student, said she got her job purely because she knew the hiring manager. The 18-year-old added: 'I think retail is the only place that will hire without experience.' When Mary Mitchell heard about the TM Landry College Preparatory Academy it seemed like the answers to her prayers. It was 2016, and she and her husband were living in Louisiana. Only half of the state's secondary students learned from qualified teachers, more than one in four adult residents were illiterate and the public school system ranked among the worst in the nation. Worse, the Mitchells' town of Breaux Bridge, ten miles east of Lafayette, was a deprived district in an already struggling corner of America with a poverty rate twice the nationwide figure. The Mitchells wanted something better for their then-14-year-old son Nyjal and his ten-year-old sister who were, they felt, being failed by the system. Into this scene stepped Mike Landry and his wife, Tracey, with their school and their promises. Their students, they said, were largely black and overcame grinding poverty and appalling odds to make it into Ivy League schools. In fact, their publicity boasted, they had a 100 percent graduation and college acceptance rate. In December 2015, the school had their first Harvard acceptance - a moment captured by Landry and uploaded to social media, where it went viral. Indeed, the success was eye-catching, public figures took note. First Lady Michelle Obama praised the Landrys' efforts, and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres invited their students onto her program. Landry was lauded as a savior, his students nothing short of 'miracles.' If this all sounds too good to be true it's because it was. As details revealed in a new book Miracle Children, the school was reportedly a sham. Grades were inflated, transcripts were faked and physical and mental abuse ran rife. When Mary Mitchell heard about the TM Landry College Preparatory Academy it seemed like the answers to her prayers First Lady Michelle Obama praised the Landrys' efforts, and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres invited their students onto her program Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres invited their students onto her program. Landry was lauded as a savior, his students nothing short of 'miracles.' (Pictured: Clip from The Ellen Show of TM Landry students celebrating a college acceptance) For Mitchell, the book's release is a vindication of sorts. She was one of the first to blow the whistle on the Landrys and in return she, and her son who alleged the Landrys had beaten him, were disbelieved and shunned. In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Mitchell has shared her own devastating experience with TM Landry College Prep and the toll she says it took on her children. Speaking from her home in Louisiana she said: 'I believe that Mike is evil. Evil, because I don't think that a sane, rational human being would do what he has done to that number of children without any conscience.' It began, as so many stories do, full of promise, as the Mitchells, and many other aspirational families, were drawn in by the school's tales of Ivy League success. Her son was keen, too. He told the Daily Mail: 'I had been put in a public school and was having a lot of experiences with bullying from my black peers, because I was a nerdy black kid in a poor, less-educated part of America. 'The Landry aura of knowledge appealed to me. Mike was an intelligent-seeming black man who wanted other black people to be successful in places that they were not allowed into. He had a vision that I respected, and I still can say to this day that I respect the vision of wanting black people to succeed, or wanting black people to be in these Ivy Leagues, these places that they're deserving to be in.' Born in Breaux Bridge, Landry had graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a degree in business, joined the military, then returned home to marry Tracey, a nurse who grew up across the road from him. They opened their school in 2005, initially to homeschool five children and their own. It was unaccredited and unregulated - a legacy from the 1970s, when some Louisiana schools successfully sought permission to swerve desegregation restrictions. Colleges will usually ask students from unaccredited schools to take additional tests to confirm results: the Landrys, the book alleges, did not inform the colleges of their status and the colleges did not ask. Landry pitched his school as a place of advocacy for young black children. Captivating and flamboyant, clad in bright colors, Mitchell said he told parents his teaching was unconventional and tough, but effective. Landry also wooed college admissions tutors, who were sucked in by his spiel about championing disadvantaged youth. Parents scraped together the $600 a month he charged for tuition - a fraction of the amount charged by many Ivy League feeder schools, but a fortune in Breaux Bridge. Mike and Tracey Landry, seen with Jessica Marinaccio the dean of undergraduate admissions and financial aid for Columbia University in June 2015, also wooed college admissions tutors Captivating and flamboyant, clad in bright colors, Landry, pictured with wife Tracey on the Today show in 2018, told parents his teaching was unconventional and tough, but effective TM Landry College in Breaux Bridge was founded in the Landry's home in 2005, then moved to this larger site on the outskirts of the Louisiana town in 2017 Word quickly spread, and by January 2017 there were 142 pupils. Mike and Tracey Landry were basking in their success: locals told the authors of Miracle Children that his flashy clothes were now designer, and she had traded her Michael Kors purses for Louis Vuitton and Gucci, with coordinated stilettos. In January 2018 Nyjal told his mother that Landry had repeatedly beaten him, culminating in an episode that month in which Landry placed him in a chokehold from behind, forced him to the floor, then dragged him across the concrete by his hoodie before insisting he kneel before the shocked class. Nyjal said that Landry had previously slapped and shoved him, pinning him to a door. The Mitchells took their son's claims to the police Landry was questioned but told officers and other parents that the boy was lying and that the couple had invented the claims of abuse to extort him. Other pupils denied seeing the attacks; the police believed Landry; and the Mitchells, who ran the local gas station, were ostracized. Nyjal and his sister were shunned for speaking ill of the school and its domineering head. When she pulled Nyjal and his sister out of the school the youngsters were branded 'traitors,' and both sank into a deep depression. 'It destroyed them,' Mitchell said. 'As teenagers, you put your whole world into who you think your friends are, and then those people now hate you, saying that you're a traitor, and you turned on this man that's next to God in their world.' So white hot was Mary Mitchell's anger that she followed Landry to a Walmart with the intention of running him down in the parking lot. Realizing the insanity of the thought, she broke down in tears behind the wheel of her car. That same month two pupils were invited onto the Ellen DeGeneres show: Alex Little, accepted to Stanford, and Ayrton Little, off to Harvard. More than 18 million people had watched the videos of them receiving their acceptance emails. But when DeGeneres began discussing their college applications, and the tough family life described, folks back in Breaux Bridge had questions. Maureen Little, the teenagers' mother, had indeed raised the boys alone and struggled financially. Their home was dilapidated, and they had to heat water on the stove for a bath. But Maureen managed to put the boys through private schools until she lost her job and sent the boys to Landry just the year before. A trained chef who ran a catering business, taught cooking classes, and drove an SUV, she soon found a new full-time job at a vocational college. Ellen, however, told her audiences that the family frequently faced homelessness, and spent the winters without heat. She said they rarely knew if there would be food on the dinner table. Alex Little (left) and his brother Ayrton (right) were invited onto the Ellen DeGeneres show in 2018. More than 18 million people had watched the videos of them receiving their acceptance emails from Stanford and Harvard When DeGeneres began discussing their college applications, and the tough family life described, the families back in Breaux Bridge had questions The exposure was the beginning of the end for the Landrys. In 2017, one student's parent, Adam Broussard, sent his son Collin for independent testing and was stunned to learn that he had first grade reading skills in his second month of third grade. Collin left the school in the spring of 2018. After the Ellen debacle, the Broussards spoke out, urging other parents to get their children independently tested. The parents organized a meeting and confronted Mike Landry, who angrily told them that if they didn't like his teaching methods they could leave. Instead, the concerned families contacted a lawyer and tipped off the New York Times, which in November 2018 published a devastating account of the school. The Times reported that students spent all day watching online lessons, and cramming for their tests rather than being educated. Landry would reportedly doctor their personal essays, inventing clubs they attended and teams they played on. According to the New York Times, Landry would terrorize the students, playing them off against each other and warning that if they challenged him they would not be accepted to college. His methods, students alleged, were brutal, humiliating and belittling, with pupils shoved, slapped, and forced to kneel for hours. The Breaux Bridge police received about ten complaints involving the school in the month following The New York Times publishing its article, The Lafayette Daily Advertiser reported. The FBI began investigating in 2019 but shelved its inquiry with no charges ever filed. Enrollment, however, fell to around 60 students that year, and in 2022 the school closed. Mike and Tracey Landry left town and have not been seen or heard from since. The devastation they left in their wake, however, remained. The book chronicles the fates of several former students. Ayrton and Alex Little graduated, but others did not. One student, Asja Jackson, dropped out of Wesleyan after two months, deeply depressed with her failure to grasp the demanding science lessons. Another, Raymond Smith, graduated from Landry in 2017 but only spent a year at New York University, dropping out when he realized the financial aid Landry assured him would be coming was a lie. Nyjal, now 23, graduated from the University of Louisiana in May 2025 with a degree in psychology, and is now studying for his master's at Southern University in Baton Rouge. Having been in therapy since Landry's alleged abuse he now wants to train as a counsellor himself. Nyjal Mitchell, now 23, graduated from the University of Louisiana in May 2025 with a degree in psychology, and is now studying for his master's at Southern University in Baton Rouge Nyjal Mitchell, center, with his mother Mary (to his right), his sister, and father Allen (far right) 'I feel like I got off really lucky out of that situation,' he said. 'The trauma is one thing, but the reality of this situation is I was able to speak on something that needed to be stopped. And, you know, I left Landry and got to keep going to high school. It sucked to have to redo a grade, but at least I made it to college on my own. Others paid probably tens of thousands of dollars, and they didn't even get a high school diploma.' He said: 'It was completely possible for TM Landry to be an amazing place that did amazing things. But he was using the backs of black children and other children to prop himself up, to prop his organization up.' The book, Nyjal said, has given him 'closure,' while the years of work processing the trauma have given him a remarkable equanimity. 'I hope that Mike gets what's coming to him, the justice that's coming to him,' he said. 'But I have moved on to a completely different part of my life. I've learned from my therapist over the years that you give energy to the things that you need to. That's just not him.' Both Nyjal and his mother agree, though, that Louisiana needs to step up its educational oversight. 'Even home schools need to be regulated by someone,' she said. 'And if they're going to be in the presence of children, they need to pass background checks. There should be some oversight yearly, at least, where someone comes in and verifies that nothing is happening to these kids, right?' Landry could not be reached for comment. He was never charged in connection with any of the allegations made by Mitchell or the authors. Soldiers in the British Army's largest infantry regiment are preparing for potential war with Russia at the UK's only training area to replicate a Ukrainian conflict zone. Troops are practising for the challenges posed by fighting in urban environments at Copehill Down, a unique Ministry of Defence facility on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire. The latest episode of Channel 5's 'Platoon 24/7: Preparing for War' has provided a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the close quarters battle training centre. Soldiers from The Rifles were told they must defeat an enemy force hidden inside three buildings in the facility which has been created to look like a bombed town. The exercise was held in the days before the recruits were deployed to a Nato training area in Germany to spend a month preparing for battle in eastern Europe. Captain Mike Lindgren, the officer commanding D Company, 5th Battalion, The Rifles, tells the documentary: 'A war with Russia would be soldiers versus soldiers. 'They've got the same kind of equipment that we have, similar training with different methods. That fight would end up potentially in places that look a little bit like this.' He says there is 'probably no greater challenge than urban environments in war because they are 'supremely confusing' and 'communications don't work too well'. Copehill Down is a Ministry of Defence training facility on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire Copehill Down is located in the middle of the villages of Shrewton, Chitterne and Tilshead Copehill Down is the UK's only training area to replicate a Ukrainian conflict zone Soldiers are told they must defeat an enemy force hidden inside three buildings in the facility Captain Mike Lindgren is the officer commanding D Company, 5th Battalion, The Rifles The exercise was held in the days before the recruits were deployed to a Nato training area Dylan Green, Ryan Dutton, Callum Hancock, Owen Morris and Will Halliday in 'Platoon 24/7' Captain Lindgren adds: 'The enemy isn't directly in front of you, the enemy could be above you, to the left of you, it could be below you in sewer systems, etc. 'We're looking for Riflemen to demonstrate that will to fight, to go into a building in the dark where you know there's people who aren't your friends and kill them at really close range.' Speaking about the exercise, he also says: 'It's in your face, it's close and personal. For the young soldiers, it will be very intense.' Copehill Down technically known as a 'Fighting in Built Areas' (FIBUA) facility - is located in the middle of the villages of Shrewton, Chitterne and Tilshead. The site was built in 1987 to resemble a German village in Bavaria before being expanded over the years, including a 190,000 'shoot house' in 2015. A further 325,000 project at the time also added new alleyways, tunnels, compounds and high-level walkways to the area. The second episode of the documentary, which airs tonight at 9pm, comes after the first showed the Rifles training to kill enemies in close quarter combat with bayonets while preparing for battle. A training exercise at Copehill Down in October 2018 to prepare for an urban warfare situation The recruits have been undergoing brutal training over six months while being readied for possible frontline deployment in eastern Europe. They were shown being taught to eliminate targets at close range under 'Sword Lane' training. This is designed to test the soldiers' physical and mental endurance and teach them 'controlled aggression' while under extreme exhaustion and little sleep. Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to put British boots on the ground in Ukraine once the war is over. British and French forces will be placed in 'military hubs' in Ukraine as part of peacekeeping efforts in the event a ceasefire is brokered, the Prime Minister said last month. They would help to train Ukrainian troops and protect stocks of weaponry, aimed at deterring future Russian aggression, it was revealed following a meeting of the coalition of the willing in Paris. The coalition of some 35 countries has been meeting since March last year to hammer out a means of protecting Ukraine from further attempts by Russia to seize its territory once the war is over. 'Platoon 24/7: Preparing For War' continues on Channel 5 tonight at 9pm Senator Ted Cruz told donors that he expects Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy to back his 2028 presidential bid, the Daily Mail can reveal, handing the Texan a significant conservative megaphone in his likely challenge to Vice President JD Vance. The disclosure comes as Ruddy is scheduled to testify before Cruz's Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation on Tuesday for a hearing titled 'We Interrupt This Program: Media Ownership and the Digital Age.' Ruddy has publicly opposed a Federal Communications Commission rule change that would raise the cap on local television station ownership. That would allow a merger between Nexstar, the parent company of NewsNation, and Tenga, which owns 64 local television stations in 51 U.S. markets, to proceed. 'I attended a Ted Cruz fundraiser late last year and during the fundraiser Senator Cruz mentioned that Chris Ruddy would be using Newsmax to support his candidacy when and if he runs for the Republican primary, which is expected,' an attendee who has contributed financially to the senator told the Daily Mail. Cruz's spokesperson Macarena Martinez pushed back on donor's account. 'Once again, anonymous sources are putting words in Senator Cruz's mouth to further their own agendas. These are obvious lies, but the media once again shows that they are ready and eager to be spun up and used at every opportunity,' Martinez said. 'Journalists used to know how to do their jobs. Those days are clearly far behind us.' The Daily Mail's donor source swatted back: 'I guess they don't call him lying Ted for nothing.' Senator Ted Cruz told donors that Newsmax's CEO Chris Ruddy would be supporting a potential 2028 presidential bid, an attendee at a fundraiser told the Daily Mail. Ruddy will be testifying in front of the Senate committee Cruz chairs on Tuesday Ruddy didn't answer directly when asked if he was supporting Cruz's presidential bid, instead supplying the Daily Mail with a statement through a spokesperson about Tuesday's hearing. 'I am looking forward to joining with Chairman Cruz and the other Senators on the committee to have an open and frank discussion about the dangers of media consolidation in the television broadcast industry,' Ruddy said. After the story was published, a spokesperson for Ruddy told the Daily Mail that the Newsmax CEO 'denies the "fake news" he ever promised Senator Cruz any endorsement and neither he nor Newsmax have made any pledge of support for any candidate in 2028.' Ruddy has historically been against major media consolidations, and the Nexstar-TENGA deal is no different. Ruddy has said that the merger would hurt conservative media and filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission, arguing that the deal violates national ownership caps. The FCC's current rule prohibits broadcasters from owning stations that reach more than 39 percent of U.S. households. The enlarged Nexstar would reach 54.5 percent. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, has signaled support for updating the rules, though there's also a legal question of whether that would need to be decided by Congress instead. 'The answer to Big Tech consolidation is not to give left-wing TV broadcasters massive consolidation and power too,' Ruddy wrote in an Newsmax op-ed in November. 'We don't need anti-Trump media controlling everything.' Join the debate How much influence should big conservative media have in deciding who leads the Republican Party? Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy has been vocally against the Nexstar-Tenga merger arguing that it would hurt conservative media, but this weekend President Donald Trump publicly touted the merger 'It shocks me President Trump's FCC chairman has made his main priority giving the TV broadcasters more power and control, especially over local news,' Ruddy added. Ruddy was overruled this weekend by Trump himself. 'We need more competition against THE ENEMY, the Fake News National TV Networks. Letting Good Deals get done like Nexstar - Tegna will help knock out the Fake News because there will be more competition, and at a higher and more sophisticated level,' Trump posted to Truth Social on Saturday. 'Those that are opposed don't fully understand how good the concept of this Deal is for them, but they will in the future. GET THAT DEAL DONE!' Trump added, signing the message, 'PRESIDENT DJT.' With Trump's endorsement, that puts Ruddy on the same side of the issue as top Democrats, including progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representatives Maxwell Frost and Summer Lee. Witnesses at Tuesday's hearing represent a variety of viewpoints. Beyond Ruddy the panel consists of Curtis LeGeyt, the president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcaster, who's in support of eliminating broadcast ownership caps; Thomas Johnson, former general counsel of the FCC, who's expected to argue that the agency can change the ownership cap rules without Congress; and Rebuild Local News' President Steve Waldman. Cruz, as committee chair, hasn't officially come down on one side or another on the merger. Senator Ted Cruz hasn't been shy about White House ambitions, swatting down a pitch recently that President Donald Trump could appoint him to the Supreme Court instead But he has tussled with Carr in the past, calling the FCC chairman's move in September to go after ABC's broadcast license over comments made by Jimmy Kimmel 'dangerous as hell.' Nexstar had pulled Kimmel off its airwaves in a move that looked to curry favor with the FCC chairman. The Texas senator likened Carr's move to a mafia boss: 'That's right out of Goodfellas,' Cruz said. Cruz warned that if the government got into the business of what the media said 'that will end up bad for conservatives.' 'Going down this road, there will come a time when a Democrat wins again wins the White House they will silence us. They will use this power, and they will use it ruthlessly. And that is dangerous,' Cruz said. The Texas senator hasn't been shy about his own White House ambitions. A graduate of Harvard Law School and having previously served as the solicitor general of Texas, Cruz has the resume of a wannabe Supreme Court justice. But he slapped down that idea, which was recently floated by Trump, in an episode last week of the Ruthless podcast, which was first obtained by the Daily Mail. 'My answer's not just no, it's hell no,' Cruz said of serving on the high court. The Texas senator suggested he had no place in the judicial branch, which is historically supposed to stay away from political debates, because that's what he likes best. 'A principled federal judge stays out of political fights and stays out of policy fights,' Cruz said. 'I want to be right in the middle of them.' Behind the scenes, Cruz has also been trash-talking his future biggest rival - Vance. In leaked audio recordings given to Axios last month by a Republican source, Cruz is heard characterizing Vance as a pawn of conservative podcaster and Fox News Channel veteran Tucker Carlson. 'Tucker created JD. JD is Tucker's protege, and they are one and the same,' Cruz said. Newsmax gets about one-sixth of the audience of Fox News Channel, with its highest-rated show in January receiving 345,000 eyeballs to Fox's 2.046 million in primetime. But Ruddy's endorsement will be much needed, argued a source close to the White House. 'Because he's got no other conservative outlet,' the source said. 'Everyone else is gonna be with JD.' 'Maybe the way he sees it is Ted's going to be in the primary for a month and then he'll be gone, so it's not really - it's not like he's making a long-term commitment,' the source joked of Ruddy's support. One of the largest illegal waste dumps in British history containing 30,000 tonnes of rubbish has been discovered. Members of Knowsley Council were left 'totally shocked' and 'furious' by the site situated just off the M57 in Kirkby, Merseyside. Tonnes of waste has been crammed into what appears to be a bomb crater, with some of it spilling over into a mini-reservoir of dirty, almost black water. Nearby there are stacks of rubbish piled six feet high emitting smoke and a smell described as putrid. It is thought that much of the waste was dumped in November, when passersby noticed diggers working on the site without permission. Those responsible for the fly-tipping are yet to be identified, but Merseyside Police have pledged to prosecute them when they are found. The force have shut the site down with the help of the Environment Agency (EA). Local councillor Graham Morgan described the case as 'utterly horrendous' while speaking with the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). Members of Knowsley Council were left 'totally shocked' and 'furious' by the site (pictured) situated just off the M57 in Kirkby, Merseyside It is thought that much of the waste was dumped in November, when passersby noticed diggers working on the site (pictured) without permission Those responsible for the fly-tipping are yet to be identified - but in the meantime, Merseyside Police have shut the site (pictured) down with the help of the Environment Agency 'We are furious at the sheer contempt those responsible have shown for our residents and for the habitat on this site,' he said. 'Those responsible need to be pursued and prosecuted.' The scale of fly-tipping at the site makes it arguably the biggest illegal waste dump ever discovered in Britain. A pile of dirt, rubbish and soil stretches along compacted delivery routes for acres, with pictures from the area displaying the eye-opening extent of the mess. The LDRS said the site was discovered by sheer luck, when someone noticed a 'large construction operation moving around the land'. When confronted, the workers said they were helping with a nearby roads project - but that has turned out to be untrue. They later disappeared along with their machinery. An EA spokesperson said: 'We took action with Knowsley Council and Merseyside Police to shut down access to this illegal waste dump and are hunting down those involved. 'The public should be assured that we will use all our powers to prosecute the criminals responsible.' The Kirkby site is one of 517 illegal dumps across England - at least 11 of which are classified as 'super sites' because they contain over 20,000 tonnes of waste. Among them are a 280,000 tonne site in Cheshire, two 50,000-tonne sites in Lancashire and Cornwall, and a 36,000-tonne tip in Kent. Most illegal dump sites are situated in countryside locations, where they are hidden on what should be greenbelt land, and are usually run by organised criminal gangs, police said. The gangs make money by charging significantly less than official operators to take and bury waste. Four men have now been arrested over a 21,000-tonne, 500ft-long site that appeared last year in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, to the horror of locals. The mega tip is made up of processed domestic waste, such as shredded plastics, polystyrene, and other household items. The mountain of illegal waste dumped in a field alongside the A34, just metres from the River Cherwell, has sparked outrage and will cost around 10million to clear. A 'critical incident' has been declared over the dump by the EA amid fears of pollution of the nearby water. The Kirkby site is just one of 517 illegal dumps across England. Four men have now been arrested over a 21,000-tonne, 500ft-long site (pictured) that appeared last year in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, to the horror of locals The mega tip (pictured) is made up of processed domestic waste, such as shredded plastics, polystyrene, and other household items Three men have been arrested in recent days in connection with the site, after another man was also detained in relation to it in November. Pictured: One of the arrests The watchdog said a 52-year-old man from Ashford, Surrey, was arrested on Monday. He has since been released on conditional bail pending further investigation. It came after two other men were arrested on Thursday in connection with the site - a 69-year-old in Andover, Hampshire, and a 54-year-old in Slough. Both were detained for alleged environmental and money laundering offences. They have also been released on bail. A 39-year-old from Guildford, Surrey, was also arrested in November. According to the EA, the first report of waste being tipped in Kidlington was made in early July last year. In December, it announced that planning work to clear up the illegal site had begun. The EA's National Environmental Crime Unit is leading the investigation into the Oxfordshire site, working alongside the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit and several police forces. A private waste clearance firm has been given a 9.6million contract to deal with the site over the next year. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said: 'The illegal dumping at Kidlington was completely and utterly unacceptable, causing significant harm to the environment and distress to the community. 'This most recent arrest is an important step toward justice, and we will continue to pursue all waste criminals until this illegal behaviour is stamped out. 'We're strengthening our fight against waste crime by increasing enforcement funding, deploying more officers, and imposing tougher checks and penalties for offenders.' The Welsh city of Newport has also become one of Britain's worst rubbish hotspots in recent times, with neighbours fearing they are fighting a losing battle against the filth. Residents have said they are 'at war' and are constantly working to clean countryside areas around their homes which have become blighted by the filth. It has been dubbed the fly-tipping capital of Wales due to its piles of waste - leaving locals feeling they have little choice but to clear the mountains of rubbish themselves. Illegal rubbish dumping in the city has soared by 6,000 per cent in the last two decades. The Welsh city of Newport has also become one of Britain's worst rubbish hotspots in recent times, with neighbours fearing they are fighting a losing battle against the filth. Pictured: An abandoned dual carriageway in the city, which has become a notorious dumping ground Fridges left on laybys, ovens dumped in trees, and dead animals are all among the detritus - while locals claim trucks and lorries arrive at night and tip their contents out. Pictured: The abandoned dual carriageaway in the city where rubbish is often found illegally dumped It has been dubbed the fly-tipping capital of Wales due to its piles of waste - leaving locals feeling they have little choice but to clear the mountains of rubbish themselves. Pictured: Rubbish collected by a neighbourhood litter pick Fridges left on laybys, ovens dumped in trees, and dead animals are all among the detritus, with one abandoned dual carriageway in the city a particularly notorious dumping ground. Locals have also claimed trucks and lorries arrive will often come to Newport under cover of night just in order to tip their contents out. Residents previously described the fly-tipping locally as a 'pandemic', claiming they have even been unable to sell their homes after cases skyrocketed. Zoey Newton-Karbautski Scott is part of a group carrying out weekly clear-ups in the Duffryn part of the city, but says the problem is getting worse. She said: 'It is an ongoing problem. They come along and either dump their rubbish or try to burn it. People cannot be bothered. 'Not many people walk towards the back of the properties in Duffryn so it's an easy place for them to fly tip. 'I do not know when it started, but I do know things have got worse since COVID, perhaps because you must log in online and book your rubbish disposal rather than go to a depot. 'I don't think we will ever win the war on fly tipping. Someone must know why these people are choosing to dump their rubbish all the time.' Newton-Karbautski Scott is part of the Friends of Rabbit Hill group, which is hoping to show other neighbours the problem and highlight the issue. She continued: 'We need to educate children in schools. 'The problem is when they become teenagers, they will see other people fly-tipping and then that behaviour carries on into adulthood. 'People need to understand what they are doing is wrong.' Residents previously claimed they were unable to sell their properties due to the amount of illegally dumped waste. Ellen Law, 70, who claimed the fly-tipping has been going on since the nineties, said: 'I don't think there is anywhere like this with this amount of fly-tipping. 'It has been impossible to sell the house because this area is really known now for fly-tipping.' She continued: 'To see it happening in real time is shocking. 'This is the area that has become a huge black spot and to watch it grow bigger is heartbreaking. 'Fly-tipping was an unusual thing and has now become the norm. It is horrible if you think of all the beautiful animals you have here.' A former head of the UK drugs regulator has been banned from working as a doctor after failing to reveal his convictions for child sex offences. Dr Ian Hudson trained as a paediatrician and worked in the pharmaceutical industry before going on to serve as chief executive of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for six years. But a tribunal this week ruled his fitness to practice is impaired and ordered his erasure from the General Medical Council's register of doctors, preventing him from practicing in the UK. The panel heard Hudson was convicted at Chelmsford Magistrate's Court in 2024 of two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child. He was sentenced to a six month custodial sentence suspended for 18 months, forced to sign the sex offenders register for ten years and subjected to a five year sexual harm prevention order. But the father-of-one failed in his duty to notify the GMC of the charges and convictions 'without delay', the Medical Practitioner's Tribunal Service was told. The hearing, presided over by three tribunal members, determined his conduct and offending were at the upper end of the scale of seriousness and there was a 'high risk' to public safety. They suspended Hudson from the GMC's Register with immediate effect and he will be permanently struck off he fails to appeal the outcome within 28 days. Dr Ian Hudson has been banned from working as a doctor after failing to reveal his convictions for child sex offences The GMC asked the tribunal to erase Hudson from the its Register, citing the seriousness of his offences and the importance of maintaining public confidence in the medical profession. Arguing that 'the Tribunal could not conclude that Hudson's behaviour's wouldn't be repeated and that the level of risk was high with only limited insight and that remediation was limited and incomplete,' it also asked that an immediate suspension order be imposed during the customary 28 day appeal period. Hudson, who represented himself at the virtual hearing, insisted 'he had good insight into his actions and had done as much to remediate as he could think of'. He said there were 'elements of his work that required him to be on the medical register despite having no contact with patients' and asked to remain on it - but with restrictions that prevented him from working with children in a medical capacity. Given his significant expertise and experience 'he still had a lot to offer for the benefit of wider society and could do so without risking the public,' he added. The GMC said there were no extenuating circumstances for the Tribunal to take into account. Dr Hudson began his medical career in the 1980s working as a paediatrician. According to his official Government biography he worked in pharmaceutical research and development team at SmithKleinBeecham for 12 years before his appointment in 2001 as the Head of Licensing at the MHRA's predecessor the Medicine's Control Agency. He served as the MHRA's Chief Executive from 2013 to 2019. Following his departure from the MHRA, Hudson was awarded an OBE in the 2020 New Years Honours in recognition of his leadership and work on healthcare regulation and medicines oversight. Hudson later worked for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as its Senior Advisor, Regulatory Affairs, Integrated Development, Global Health until 2024. His appointment by the BMGF immediately following his tenure as MHRA Chief Executive was subject to review by the Office of the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments who imposed two conditions restricting his use of privileged non-public information acquired during his time at the MHRA and prohibiting any direct involvement in lobbying the UK government. More recently he has worked a director, advisor or consultant for various heath firms. When she looks at the photos of her beloved dog Bonnie, Jessica Glynn knows that this little Yorkie/Jack Russell cross saved her life a number of times. For the catering worker, who lives in Rathfarnham in Dublin, succumbed to an illness she didnt know she had when her daughter Matilda was five months old. And but for the actions of Bonnie, Jessica could have died. I used to get this feeling but I put it down to anxiety because that was something I suffered from beforehand, Jessica from Rathfarnham in Dublin says. I had nothing wrong with me apart from that and I was in good health. But one afternoon in September 2017 things changed dramatically for Jessica. I was just at home and I was holding Matilda - she was so small. And the last thing I remember is putting Matilda into her pram. But the strange sensation Jessica was feeling was in fact the beginnings of her first seizure - a tonic clonic. Jessica, then 26, was alone in her room with her baby. I was a single mum living with my parents at the time but my dad was in another room when all this happened. But if it wasnt for the actions of my dog Bonnie I dont know what would have happened. She went to him and she kept hitting and hitting at him until he sensed there was something wrong. He followed her into the sitting room and he found me having a seizure. That was the beginning of Jessicas life changing forever. Dad called an ambulance but when I got to Tallaght hospital I took another seizure and so I had to stay there for about 12 days. During her stay in hospital Jessica was diagnosed with a chiari malformation - a congenital defect where the lower part of the brain extends into the upper part of the spinal canal as the skull is too small to hold the brain. It causes pressure on the brainstem and spinal cord, leading to symptoms like severe headache, neck pain, dizziness, and balance issues. At this stage doctors were not sure if Jessicas seizures were a one-off. But then in January 2018 I took another seizure in my sleep and it was then that I was diagnosed with epilepsy. Again it was Bonnie, the Yorkshire terrier cross, who alerted Jessicas dad to the fact that she was taking a seizure. She was barking and barking downstairs, says Jessica, now 34. It was excessive barking for her so it actually woke my dad up as he felt something was wrong. And when he opened my bedroom door, he found that I was seizing again in my sleep. Baby Matilda with wonder dog Bonnie in her cot Jessica is telling her story as part of International Epilepsy Day which falls today. Matilda is eight years old now and is a great help when her mother has seizures. Her life has been turned upside down because Matilda sleeps in the same room as me, of course, says Jessica. But now she almost understands more about epilepsy than I do. She is often the one who finds me when I am having a seizure and she knows exactly what to do. Jessica says the first time Matilda understood what a seizure was, it was horrific for her but now she knows to monitor the time and ensure Jessica has her medication. From about the age of four if I had a seizure Matilda would wake up, she'd know she'd come straight out of her bed and shed get my mam and then bless her like as time got on and they got worse she'd start timing so no matter who was there she'd make sure I had my pen. Jessica has three pens in her house in different places and Matilda knows where to find them. If you seize for over five minutes there is a danger of brain damage, says Jessica. So I have a pen which is called buccal midazolam and it's a sedation pen. So it means that if I start, if I'm still seizing after five minutes, you administer the pen to knock me out and stop the brain damage. Matilda knows it is essential to time the seizures for this reason, and she also knows where her mums pens are. I was afraid of having a seizure in front of Matilda, says Jessica. But then the last seizure I had it was only me and her. I was getting her ready for school and she had just asked me for a tissue. Then she said all she heard was a huge bang. She found me seizing and said it was her worst one because this time I was foaming at the mouth. Quick-thinking Matilda ran out the door and called to the local shopkeeper John who was across the road. He came to help. She gave him a pillow to put under my head and then told him to stay with me as she needed to go and get my sister who lives close to us. Matilda has been educating her classmates about the condition too and Epilepsy Ireland have released a new song to increase awareness of seizure first aid and the key words of Time, Safe, Stay which has been a big hit already in the Glynn household -referring for the need to time the seizure, keep the person safe and stay with them until the seizure is over. Jessica with Matilda on her First Communion Day. Matilda has been a great support to her mum The song has been released for International Epilepsy Day to highlight the condition which affects an estimated 45,000 people in Ireland. Written and performed by Irish artist Richie Egan, and produced by Laudhaus, the song is now available to listen to on Spotify and on www.epilepsy.ie. We all know how nothing quite sticks in your memory like a catchy song, says Paddy McGeoghegan of Epilepsy Ireland. And through our new musical message, we hope the wider public will not only enjoy it, but also remember it. Knowing how to respond to a seizure is a potentially lifesaving intervention to know, and we would appeal to everyone to listen, share and learn more about seizure first aid this International Epilepsy Day. After a tough year, Jessica got new medication and has not has a seizure since April 2025. This is the first time I have had relief since 2020, she says. She and Matilda are also helping others with epilepsy by sharing their lives on Instagram at @epilepsy_momire. Bonnie has sadly since passed away but Jessica will never forget how her little dog saved her. We still have pictures of her everywhere around the house and we still talk about her a lot, says Jessica. There are assistance dogs who are trained to do this but Bonnie was just an ordinary family pet. She had a second sense that something was wrong and she saved my life. A California community raised money to replace a special needs boy's adaptive tricycle after it was stolen by callous thieves. Marie Johnson said her 9-year-old son Jack, who has down syndrome and autism, had his custom trike stolen from their Los Feliz backyard this week. After Marie posted online asking if anyone had seen Jack's tricycle earlier this week, locals quickly raised thousands on a GoFundMe set up for the boy. She had also filed a police report with the Los Angeles Police Department. Jack has outgrown tricycles pushed by parents, and the stolen trike was 'one of his main forms of independence,' his mother said. The young boy has difficulty walking at times and was incredibly proud of his bicycle, which he would wave at anyone who passed by. Jack hasnt been told about the theft, his mother told KNX News. 'I don't want to explain it to him. He's a sweet soul who sees the good in everyone,' she said. 'He would comprehend it and be heartbroken, or not understand and be frustrated.' 9-year-old Jack, who has Down syndrome and autism, had his custom trike stolen from their Los Feliz backyard this week Jack is not yet aware of the situation he also has difficulty walking at times and was incredibly proud of his bicycle, which he would wave at anyone who passed by The family has tried to remain positive and focus on the idea that Jack would be getting a new and better trike. At the time of this report, the GoFundMe for the boy has raised nearly $8,500, surpassing its $7,000 goal. 'Since the theft, the landlord offered a locked area to keep Jacks new trike secure for years of joy,' the fundraiser noted. Recently, in 2025, a disabled six-year-old girl had her custom-made wheelchair stolen by thieves as they ran off with her family's car. Emily Riley-Dolan's wheelchair was stolen days before Christmas, leaving her 'unable to live a normal life', her mother Amy Riley said. Riley-Dolan has spina bifida and is paralyzed from the chest down, so she is heavily reliant on her wheelchair. Marie Johnson, Jack's mother said, she doesn't want to explain the incident to her son because he is such 'a sweet soul who sees the good in everyone' (Marie Johnson and Bobby Field, Jack's father pictured) The custom chair, valued at about the same price as the car, was in the trunk of the familys gray Peugeot 5008 when it was stolen from outside their home in England in 2025. Amy made a public plea for the return of her daughter's 'absolutely vital' chair. Just hours after Amy made her desperate plea, the chair and the car were miraculously returned to the family home, the same day they had been taken. An Illinois daycare worker is facing criminal charges after police say she gave chewable laxatives to toddlers under her care. Yizel J. Juarez, 23, of Sycamore, near Chicago, allegedly presented the medication as candy, leaving several children sick and their parents scrambling for answers after weeks of unexplained symptoms. Juarez was charged with three counts of attempted aggravated battery causing bodily harm to a victim under 13 and three counts of endangering the life or health of a child, according to the St. Charles Police Department. Investigators say the alleged incidents occurred at a daycare facility on West Main Street in St. Charles and involved children aged two and younger. Police said they were alerted on February 3, 2026, after 'multiple parents' reported their children had been given chewable laxatives by a daycare teacher. 'The ensuing investigation confirmed the incidents had occurred and identified three juvenile victims, each of whom is two years of age or younger,' police said. Juarez, who had been working at the daycare, was identified as the suspect. Police said Juarez later turned herself in, was formally processed, given a court date, and released from custody pending further proceedings. Yizel J. Juarez, 23, of Sycamore, Illinois, was charged with six misdemeanor counts related to allegedly giving laxatives to toddlers Investigators said the incidents occurred at a daycare facility located in St. Charles, Illinois The allegations have left parents reeling, especially those who spent months desperately searching for answers as their children's health mysteriously deteriorated. One mother, whose identity was concealed in CBS News interview described the anguish of watching her toddler suffer without explanation. 'My child is still suffering from constipation, which the doctor said it was going to be a side effect of the laxatives, of coming off of laxatives,' she said. Her 17-month-old child had been enrolled at the daycare since the summer of 2025 - around the same time Juarez began working there. For weeks, the family struggled to understand why their toddler had persistent stomach problems. 'We thought it could have been a virus, and that was negative,' the mother said. Doctors ruled out infections and changing milk formula didn't help. Her son's symptoms persisted, baffling both parents and physicians. 'We found out from the director that she had fired her employee because she allegedly was giving them these laxatives and saying that it was candy so that they could get sent home because she was overwhelmed,' the mother added. Parents contacted the police after noticing weeks of unexplained illness in their toddlers and learning from the daycare director that an employee had allegedly given children laxatives The alleged incidents occurred at a daycare facility in St. Charles, Illinois, where Juarez was employed as a teacher She added: 'It's disgusting. Get another job.' Another parent told CBS News of the emotional toll they faced. 'I have no words. It's just thinking that your kid is going to be safe, and the daycare and you come and find surprises like this. It's sad. It's devastating.' Police say the investigation began after parents independently raised concerns about their children's unexplained symptoms, eventually connecting their experiences and contacting authorities. Officers responded and 'confirmed the incidents had occurred,' according to police. The daycare fired Juarez after the allegations surfaced. Authorities are now urging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. A former British agent linked to at least 18 murders in Northern Ireland should be named officially, a parliamentary committee will claim today. Freddie Scappaticci, who died three years ago, is believed to have been a secret mole inside the IRA for more than 15 years. But his double life has never been confirmed, despite his passing aged 77 and pleas from victims of Republican violence. Scappaticci became a paid spy in the mid 1970s as part of a UK bid to infiltrate Republican terrorist organisations. It has recently emerged that the operation cost more lives than it saved due to 'Scap', as he was known, committing a serious of grotesque crimes. Today, the Northern Ireland Committee will call on the UK government to end the mystery, saying unveiling Scappaticci is strongly 'in the public interest'. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn is said to be considering the government's stance following a Supreme Court hearing relating to the handling of classified intelligence. The committee's call follows similar requests made by the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the head of an independent investigation into Stakeknife Operation Kenova. Codenamed Stakeknife, Freddie Scappaticci was the highest placed British mole inside the Provisional IRA. Seen here attending a Republican funeral in the Ardoyne area of North Belfast Mother-of-three Caroline Moreland was shot dead by the Irish Republican Army over claims she was a British agent. Her accusers included Scappaticci who was a UK mole inside the IRA Scappaticci was accused of being an agent before his death in 2023 - but his role has never been confirmed by the UK government Kenova was a 50 million, nine-year probe into Stakeknife and other British intelligence agents within the IRA and examined their role in murders and kidnappings. The possibility Scappaticci was protected by security forces while participating in such crimes remains of deep embarrassment to the UK government. In its conclusions, published in December last year, Kenova criticised the UK government's policy neither to confirm nor deny that Scappaticci was a British agent. Kenova found Scappaticci was run by MI5 and the Force Research Unit (FRU). Last night, the chairwoman of the committee Tonia Antoniazzi, said: 'As Op Kenova's final report makes clear, the ongoing refusal to confirm or deny Stakeknife's identify is having a profound and lasting effect on victims and their families who have already been through so much. 'Given the reassurances we've heard that active agents won't be put in harm's way, and recruitment won't be compromised, formal identification in this instance is appropriate. 'By naming Stakeknife, the government can send a strong signal that agents who cross a line will not receive the protection of anonymity.' Last night, a UK government spokesperson said: 'The behaviour described in Op Kenova's final report is deeply disturbing. It should not have happened. 'In recent decades there have been significant reforms to agent handling practice, including through legislation. 'The use of agents is nowadays subject to strict regulation, overseen by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner and the Investigatory Powers Triubunal. 'The government is not yet in a position to formally respond to the request by Operation Kenova to name Stakeknife as there remains ongoing litigation. 'The Secretary of State is committed to updating parliament on the matter as soon as he is able to.' ONE of Scotlands last surviving D-Day veterans, who played a key role in the Allied landings as part of the Royal Navy, has died aged 100. Albert Lamonds family have spoken of their pride in the centenarian, who never thought of himself as a hero and believed he was just doing his duty. Mr Lamond was just 18 when he took part in the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, serving as a signalman aboard HMS Rowley. He was involved in the D-Day events just a year after joining the Royal Navy. Mr Lamond also served in the Pacific in the lead-up to VJ Day on August 15 the following year, when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces. HMS Rowley, a frigate, was part of the 3rd Escort Group, when it was deployed to rendezvous with battleship HMS Warspite as it travelled to Normandy to shell German troops. The frigates role was to act as a first line of defence by circling HMS Warspite and it was expected that the sailors would sacrifice their lives. He survived and a year later, on VJ Day, his role was to evacuate Allied prisoners of war (PoW) from remote islands and transport them to Australia. Mr Lamond, who was 19 at the time, described the PoWs as living skeletons but said they were still able to smile when they were rescued. D-Day veteran Albert Lamond has died at the age of 100 A young Albert Lamond in his navy days Albert Lamond served on HMS Bonaventure Marking the 80th anniversary of the landings on June 6, 2024, he said it was vital that future generations understood the reality and cost of war. It was horrible. It lives with you forever, he said. If we dont pass the stories on, people will forget, and we cant let that happen. Born in Glasgows east end, Mr Lamond joined the Royal Navy in 1943. He had a career on the railways after leaving the service, and later he lived at McKellar House at Erskine Veterans Village in Renfrewshire. His nephew, Martin Lamond, said: Were all deeply saddened by Alberts passing. He was a joy to be around and an example to everyone right up to the last. Hell be so greatly missed. Not only have Alberts friends and family suffered a great loss, everyone has, even if they never had the pleasure of knowing him. Albert never thought of himself as a hero. He believed he was just doing his duty, and he carried the memory of those who didnt make it with him throughout his life. We are incredibly proud of him and grateful for the time we had. Wing Commander Ian Cumming, chief executive at Erskine, paid his own tribute, saying: Albert represented the very best of his generation. He spoke honestly about his service, not to glorify war, but to make sure people understood its cost. Through his time at Erskine, he was committed to passing on those lessons. We wont forget the ever-present twinkle in Alberts eye, or his cheeky patter. We were truly privileged to care for and support him in later life. He will be laid to rest on Tuesday at Dalnottar Cemetery, Clydebank, where family, friends and members of the veterans community will gather to celebrate his life. Sir Keir Starmer has been mocked by online pranksters in a new AI video depicting him and Morgan McSweeney clinging on to a plank of wood in the aftermath of the Titanic crash. McSweeney resigned as the Prime Minister's chief of staff on Sunday as the Labour government continues to reel from the Peter Mandelson scandal. The Irishman apologised for his decision to endorse Mandelson as Britain's ambassador to the US, admitting he was 'wrong' in a statement announcing his resignation. It came as another major blow for Sir Keir, who is facing the worst crisis of his 18 months in Downing Street amid revelations about Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. But while Starmer bids to restore order in his government, the Crewkerne Gazette spoof site has been making light of the situation. Having released videos mocking Angela Rayner, Rachel Reeves and David Lammy in the past, this time the duo behind the enterprise have turned their attention to McSweeney. Their latest AI sketch posted to X shows Starmer and his former chief of staff clinging on to a door in the frosty waters of the Atlantic in the wake of the Titanic's crash. The Prime Minister, lying on the piece of wood, tells McSweeney: 'The Labour Party has decided it was actually you who lost the keys to the binocular cabinet, Morgan.' Sir Keir Starmer has been mocked by online pranksters in a new AI video posted to X by the Crewkerne Gazette The video shows Starmer and his former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney clinging on to a door in the frosty waters of the Atlantic in the wake of the Titanic's crash Later, Lord Mandelson is depicted as the ice berg amid the scandal which saw him sacked from government last week Famously, the original second officer of the Titanic, David Blair, accidentally kept the key to the ship's binocular cabinet in his pocket when he was reassigned on a different voyage in April 1912. It meant the boat's lookouts were unable to spot the ice berg which eventually caused the collision. In the video, McSweeney pleads: 'That's not true Keir, you know that,' before the PM hilariously admits: 'Perhaps, but that doesn't matter now. We'll re-write the history books.' McSweeney then plunges into the depths of the ocean as the camera pans away to Starmer's right, where Lord Mandelson's face is shone on to the iceberg. The clip comes just a few days after Mandelson starred in another classic from the Crewkerne Gazette. The video featured a mock-up of Sir Keir sitting at a piano singing a rewrite of the ballad that was a US number one for Manilow in 1974, hitting number 11 in the UK. Mandelson is clad in a red gown, before the pair are shown in follow-up scenes including frolicking on a hill and riding a horse. Lyrics include a new version of the chorus, saying: 'Oh, Mandy well, you came and you lied without breaking, but I sent you away. 'Oh, Mandy well, you leaked to Jeff and stopped me from shaking, and I need you today oh, Mandy.' McSweeney resigned as the Prime Minister's chief of staff on Sunday as the Labour government continues to reel from the Peter Mandelson scandal (the duo pictured together in May 2025) Mandelson was sacked as Britain's ambassador to the US amid revelations about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein Verses have such lines as 'The night goes into morning, just another day - Tories grilling my way' and 'I'm standing on the edge of resign I walked away when spin was mine'. The Gazette describes itself as 'the sharp end of Somerset a politically incorrect, AI-fuelled, chaos-driven newcomer, where truth and satire dance together, like drunks at The White Hart'. That refers to a pub in Crewkerne, with the site set up by two friends in their 30s who met at Yeovil College as teenagers. They have dubbed themselves 'shadow creators, working mostly behind the curtain', insisting on anonymity for security purposes. After McSweeney's exit from the Labour government, Sir Keir has now lost two chiefs of staff during his time in Downing Street, following the acrimonious exit of Sue Gray in October 2024. The loss of Mr McSweeney, who was the architect of Sir Keir's general election victory, is a further shattering blow to the PM's increasingly fragile grip on power. Mr McSweeney played a key role in Sir Keir's success in taking Labour from opposition to government after he replaced Jeremy Corbyn as leader in April 2020. The PM paid tribute to Mr McSweeney on Sunday for having 'turned our party around' and said he owned his outgoing aide 'a debt of gratitude'. 'It's been an honour working with Morgan McSweeney for many years,' he said. 'He turned our party around after one of its worst ever defeats and played a central role running our election campaign. 'It is largely thanks to his dedication, loyalty and leadership that we won a landslide majority and have the chance to change the country. 'Having worked closely with Morgan in opposition and in Government, I have seen every day his commitment to the Labour Party and to our country. 'Our party and I owe him a debt of gratitude, and I thank him for his service.' Mr McSweeney's resignation will be seen as a desperate bid by Sir Keir to keep himself in power, with Angela Rayner - the former deputy PM - said to be on leadership 'manoeuvres'. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Armed Forces minister Al Carns and Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell are also seen as possible replacements for Sir Keir. But Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham now appears to have only a slim prospect of fulfilling his leadership ambitions, after he was blocked from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election by Sir Keir's allies. A depraved Washington state couple tortured an eight-year-old girl and then fled 1,000 miles with her corpse in a U-Haul. Mandie Miller, 36, was slammed with a 32-year prison sentence on Friday after she brazenly murdered her eight-year-old adopted daughter and biological niece, Meela, back in September 2022. Miller and her 31-year-old boyfriend Aleksander Kurmoyarov restrained the girl with zip ties, and bludgeoned her toes with a hammer as a 'punishment,' Law&Crime reported. The couple also deprived Meela of water and food, starving her to a mere 26 pounds before she died. '[Miller] restrained her for hours upon hours, day after day. Unbeknownst to them, their home camera system recorded them assaulting Meela,' Spokane County deputy prosecutor Emily Sullivan said at sentencing, per KREM. 'And unbeknownst to them, their home camera system recorded them tying her to a car seat with zip ties to restrain her,' the prosecutor added. 'The facts before this court are undisputed. They did assault her, they did starve her, they did restrain her, they did torture her, and they did kill her.' After Meela died, the couple lived with her lifeless body for three months because they 'wanted to spend more time with her,' police said at the time. Meela Miller, 8, was tortured by her adopted mother Mandie Miller, and her boyfriend, until she died back in 2022 Miller, 36, and her boyfriend Aleksander Kurmoyarov, 31, starved the girl to death before driving over 1,000 miles with her corpse in a U-Haul The couple rented a U-Haul truck in December, placed Meelas body in a coffin inside it, and then drove nearly 1,100 miles to South Dakota. After arriving in the state, they drove to a funeral home and requested to bury the coffin. Funeral home staff became skeptical when the pair arrived with the coffin but had no proper death certificates for the child. Staff contacted local police, who coordinated with authorities in the couples home state, obtained a search warrant, and established probable cause for their arrest. Police initially charged the couple with failing to notify law enforcement of her death, before later hitting them with a slew of far more serious charges. The twisted mother pleaded guilty back in January to assault, homicide by abuse, and two counts of unlawful imprisonment. Andrea Miller, Meelas biological mother, took the stand and delivered an emotional speech, saying she forgave the depraved couple for their vicious crimes. 'I forgive you, and Jesus Christ loves you.' And I pray this never happens to another child,' she said. Miller was slapped with a slew of charges and pleaded guilty in January 2025 to assault, homicide by abuse, and two counts of unlawful imprisonment Kurmoyarov is expected to be sentenced on Tuesday as he also pleaded guilty to plethora of charges Miller in court after she pleaded guilty in January 2026, before she was later sentenced for the heinous crimes Kurmoyarov and his attorney sitting in court back in January 2023, he will be sentenced on Tuesday At sentencing, Miller recounted her childhood in foster care while reading a statement that also touched on the brutal torture inflicted on Meela. 'My daughter did not deserve any abuse or neglect from me,' Miller admitted. 'She most definitely didn't deserve any abuse from Alex.' Kurmoyarov escaped life in prison and pleaded guilty to murder, assault and unlawful imprisonment. The boyfriend is expected to be sentenced on February 10. A diabetic man was unable to breathe and pleaded for help from medics who neglected to treat him and said he was 'simply hyperventilating,' a lawsuit claimed. George Lubrano, 24, died on December 16, 2024, after he went to Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, and was made to wait 'untreated in the waiting room for nearly five hours.' Lubrano's parents John and Michelle filed a medical malpractice and wrongful death lawsuit on Monday in Greene County. He arrived at the ER reporting a 'critically high' blood sugar level, according to the lawsuit reviewed by Law & Crime. He was also vomiting and experiencing lower back spasms, but staff allegedly brushed off his breathing difficulties as hyperventilation. Hours later, his blood sugar was allegedly recorded as 'over high,' with notes indicating that he needed to 'go back to a room as soon as possible.' Medics still had not treated Lubrano as he began to make 'gurgling sounds, lost his pulse, became unresponsive [and] went into cardiac arrest,' the lawsuit claimed. Lubrano, a Type 1 diabetic who required an insulin pump and a glucose monitor, ultimately died after staff allegedly failed to give him 'proper' and 'timely' care. George Lubrano, 24, died on December 16, 2024, after he went to the emergency room and complained of vomiting, back spams and 'criticially high' blood sugar Lubrano allegedly went 'untreated in the waiting room for nearly five hours' at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by his parents His death was attributed to complications from diabetic ketoacidosis, per the suit. The condition happens when the body cannot create enough insulin and can be lifethreatening, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, it can be treated with 'fairly noninvasive measures and reversed within hours,' according to the lawsuit. This allegedly did not happen with Lubrano, who initially showed up at the hospital around 1.30pm. About one hour later, he had not been attended which is when Lubrano told nurses that 'he could not breathe,' per his parents' claim. A nurse assessed Lubrano and 'found his lung sounds bilaterally clear,' according to the suit. She allegedly 'attributed the episode to hyperventilation,' and Lubrano continued to go untreated. Lubrano told nurses that 'he could not breathe,' per the legal filing. Medics allegedly brushed off his concerns as hyperventilation Around 3.30pm, Lubrano was again finding it hard to keep breathing. However, medics again deemed that he was 'simply hyperventilating,' according to the legal filing. His blood sugar monitor was allegedly 'beeping and not working properly' around an hour later. Lubrano told nurses that he was 'feeling weak,' per the complaint. At this point, he still had not been 'examined by a doctor or moved to a room.' Minutes later, Lubrano added that his insulin pump had not been working for more than 45 minutes. He was 'breathing rapidly' and was suffering from a dry mouth, according to the complaint. Lubrano's symptoms were allegedly so severe that he was 'having difficulty talking to nursing staff.' Hospital records allegedly said that the young man needed to be returned to a room immediately for treatment although doctors still had not checked on him. Lubrano was a Typer 1 diabetic who needed an insulin pump. At one point, he reported that his pump had not been working for more than 45 minutes Lubrano was finally taken to a treatment room around 5.35pm, but his condition was rapidly deteriorating. 'He started making gurgling sounds, lost his pulse, became unresponsive, went into cardiac arrest, and the nursing staff called a code,' the lawsuit read. Doctors tried to revive Lubrano with CPR and multiple rounds of IV epinephrine to no avail. They also used 'an airway intubation that was initially erroneously placed in his esophagus rather than his nasopharyngeal airway,' per the suit. Lubrano died at 6.01pm, allegedly from 'complications' linked to diabetic ketoacidosis. His parents said that his death was preventable if 'good, safe, and timely medical choices' had been made by Mercy Springfield workers. The Lubranos are seeking damages for monetary losses, funeral expenses, loss of services, 'companionship, comfort, instruction, guidance, counseling, training, support, love and affection.' A spokesperson for the hospital extended 'heartfelt prayers and condolences' to the family, according to the Springfield NewsLeader. The hospital added: 'We have and will continue to work with the family and their counsel to work toward a resolution.' Lubrano was remembered as a 'gentle soul who made everyone around him feel comfortable and seen,' according to a public obituary. The Daily Mail has reached out to Mercy Springfield for further comment. An 'armed and dangerous' gunman was on the loose in Philadelphia after he allegedly shot dead two truck drivers in a bloody rampage. Najee Williams, 27, is wanted in connection with two gruesome murders, both targeting tow truck drivers. Williams allegedly gunned down David GarciaMorales, 20, and Aaron Whitfield, 25, in separate incidents police believe stem from a twisted dispute within the tow truck industry. In December 2025, police found GarciaMorales with gunshot wounds inside a towing vehicle. The 20 year old was shot in the neck and thigh and rushed to the hospital, where he later died. The suspect is also wanted in connection with a second fatal shooting that took place in January. Whitfield was found inside a tow truck, riddled with gunshot wounds, and was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim, a 21yearold woman whose name was not released, was shot in the leg and rushed to the hospital in stable condition. Victim David GarciaMorales, 20, who was struck by gunfire to the neck and thigh, and later died in the hospital Victim Aaron Whitfield, 25, who was found by the police, riddled with gunshot wounds to his head and body Najee Williams, 27, is the 'armed and dangerous' suspect on the loose, he is wanted in connection with the murders Commanding Officer of the Philadelphia Police Homicide Unit, Ernest Ransom, confirmed to NBC10 that 'Williams was at both locations and committed both crimes.' Police identified the gunman from surveillance footage showing him firing shots while driving past the vehicle. Officers are examining whether the shootings are part of a larger dispute over towing. A November murder investigation is also underway for possible links to Williams, who owns his own company NKW Towing & Recovery LLC. 'We believe theres some kind of connection there. Were not ready to go on record to say this is a part of that homicide, but we are working towards that direction,' Ransom added. Williams is also wanted for violating the Uniform Firearms Act, conspiracy, possessing criminal instruments, and recklessly endangering others. Garcia-Morales is remembered for his 'social nature and amazing personality,' his obituary reads. '[Garcia-Morales] was a beloved son, brother, grandson, uncle and friend... bringing light and laughter wherever he went. '[He] cared deeply about everyone and had a genuine heart that touched all who knew him. 'His kindness, warmth, and ability to connect with others will never be forgotten,' it added. Whitfield's parents, his mother explained the devastation and anger she feels about her son's murder Footage shows a silver sedan firing shots at the tow truck as it drives by Whitfield's family created a GoFundMe in honor of his 'life and memory,' which has raised $10,531 of their $11,000 goal, as of Sunday. '[Whitfield] was a playful, hardworking individual who was loved dearly,' it stated. 'For Aaron to be murdered on the streets of Philadelphia while he was working, its unbelievable. Its not fair. Its not fair,' Whitfield's mother, Kimberly Randleman, told the outlet. Daily Mail reached out to Philadelphia police for further details. Do you know more? Email maisy.rae@dailymail.com.au A man who was killed in a triple-fatal crash used his last breath to tell rescuers to save his injured granddaughter trapped in the wreckage. The family was travelling in a white Volkswagen station wagon when it collided with a white Toyota HiLux on Waterford-Tamborine Road at Yarrabilba, south of Brisbane, just after 4.30pm on Saturday. The 65-year-old man driving the station wagon, a 33-year-old woman passenger, and the 18-year-old HiLux driver died at the scene. A 36-year-old man, 65-year-old woman and two-year-old girl, who were passengers in the station wagon, were injured. Daily Mail understands the 65-year-old man, who has not yet been identified, is the grandfather of the young girl. Two of the other passengers are understood to be her parents. Muhammad Gohar, his wife Rabia Munir and their sons, Muhammad Aihab and Muhammad Salal, were at home when they heard the explosion and rushed to the crash site. They said the driver of the wagon tapped on his window to tell them there was a baby in the car, and to save her first, before becoming unconscious and succumbing to his injuries. The grandfather of a young girl pleaded with bystanders to save her first before succumbing to his injuries at the horrific crash site on Saturday Firefighters and paramedics worked frantically at the scene to save the passengers 'We pulled the baby out, she was covered in blood,' Aihab told the Courier Mail , describing how he broke the window with a hammer. 'It happened so fast I kept asking other people what happened to the guy in the other car. By the time we were helping the other people, that car went up in flames.' Ms Munir was able to grab two small fire extinguishers but they weren't enough to douse the flames. Mr Gohar, who held the little girl in his arms as they waited for emergency services to arrive, said he wasn't able to sleep after the crash. 'You can't imagine someone is in front of you dying,' he said. The family said they'd seen at least eight crashes in three years at the same section of downhill road, with many drivers going beyond the 80km/h limit. Their comments come after horrific CCTV footage, seen by Daily Mail, showed a white Toyota HiLux speeding southbound before veering into the path of the family's Volkswagen station wagon, with the head-on collision sparking an inferno. Locals have shared their concerns about the safety of the road, with many suggesting it was an accident waiting to happen. The head-on collision overturned both cars, with first responders using hydraulic cutting equipment to free a trapped passenger Police shut down the stretch of road between Camp Cable Rd and Dollarbird Dr for hours 'I live on [that] road and can share a whole swag of horror stories,' one commented. 'We need to go back to teaching our kids that driving is a privilege and should be treated with respect and care. Another fatality just breaks my heart.' Another said: 'So sad. [The] road needs a major upgrade to accommodate the volume of traffic and also provide overtaking opportunity for people which will eliminate half of the issues on this road.' Another added: 'Such a bad bit of road known for speeding, slow vehicles and multiple people overtaking while double lines. Condolences to everyone involved.' Others reported seeing a white ute 'swerving all over the road', 'yelling and screaming' at other drivers and 'running a red light at speed' before it turned onto Waterford-Tamborine Road. The Forensic Crash Unit is still investigating the circumstances of the accident. Anyone who might have been travelling in the area around the time of the crash and might have relevant vision or information was urged to contact Policelink on 131 444. The 65-year-old woman and 36-year-old man injured in the crash were transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital with critical injuries. The woman is now in a critical but stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit, while the man is now in a stable condition. The two-year-old girl is in a stable condition at Queensland Children's Hospital. Australia Post is probing its new uniform after workers complained they suffered sunburn while wearing the SPF 50-rated polo shirts. The Communication Workers Union said several of its members had raised serious concerns. In photos shared by the organisation, a member could be seen with a red back and forearm. 'Members have questioned whether the SPF 50rated polo shirts included in the new uniform provide the level of UV protection claimed,' a CWU statement said. 'Serious doubts about the accuracy of these claims have been raised by members working outdoors.' Australia Post has allowed employees to continue wearing their old uniform until at least March 30. A formal review of the polo shirt has also been launched. A union spokesman said Australia Post acknowledged the concerns and is seeking additional details from the manufacturer regarding the shirts protective qualities. Employees working at Australia Post have raised the alarm about sunburn Postal workers across Australia have also complained about the quality, durability, fit, and functionality of various pieces of their uniforms. Some members voiced their criticisms on social media, describing the uniform as unattractive. 'Why do posties continually have to deal with staff that have never done the job making decisions and implementing all manner of policy?' one wrote. Another said: 'In the 27 years I've been at AusPost these are the worst uniforms I have ever seen! Nothing even matches.' CWU said the broader issues were formally raised with Australia Post, which committed to reviewing the new clothing to ensure it meets appropriate standards. 'Given the seriousness of the concerns raised, we strongly recommend that members revert to wearing the old uniform wherever possible,' a spokesman said. 'If you work in an outdoor role and no longer have your old garments, we advise wearing alternative suitable sunsafe clothing until the review is complete. 'These arrangements have been agreed to at the highest national level, and a commitment has been made to ensure this outcome is also communicated across the network internally by Australia Post as soon as possible.' A formal review of the polo shirt has been launched by Australia Post following the complaints An Australia Post spokesman told the Daily Mail the company is investigating. 'The safety of our team is our number one priority, and some concerns have been raised with the SPF 50-graded polo shirt in our new uniform range,' they said. 'We have advised team members to continue wearing their old uniform until the new polo shirt is determined safe, suitable, and meets our quality expectations. 'Valuable insight from over 2,500 uniformed team members was incorporated into the final design.' An ex-private schoolboy who admitted threatening to kill his girlfriend and mutilate her body if she cheated on him has had his case dismissed because he has ADHD, depression and a behaviour disorder. Ethan Ungerboeck, 20, hobbled into a Sydney court on crutches after breaking his toe ahead of sentencing for domestic violence offences against his ex-girlfriend. The former Scots College schoolboy had pleaded guilty to stalking and intimidating her with violent texts threatening to 'crush her spine', suspend her from hooks and dissect her feet. Aside from his mental health issues, Magistrate Michael Barko said other factors, including his youth and lack of criminal history, led to the charges being dismissed on Monday. However, the magistrate also mentioned two additional matters against Ungerboeck that are still before the courts and for which he has still to enter pleas. Ungerboeck, who has been bailed to his parents' $6million Sydney mansion, was charged in October with one count of common assault and three counts of assault occasioning bodily harm in relation to another woman. In December, he was also charged with 17 separate offences relating to the alleged production, distribution and possession of child abuse material. Outside court on Monday, his lawyer Michael Bowe told the Daily Mail his client was 'very happy' and added: 'It's a great result.' Ethan Ungerboeck, 20, appeared at court on crutches on Monday after breaking his toe (pictured) Ethan Ungerboeck had his domestic violence charge dismissed A mock-up of a text conversation between Ethan Ungerboeck and his ex-girlfriend Mr Bowe previously argued that his client should be sentenced under Section 14 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020. Section 14 allows anyone charged with a criminal offence to avoid conviction if they have a mental health impairment or cognitive issue. According to police facts seen by the Daily Mail, Ungerboeck controlled the music she listened to and dictated who she could see or speak to. He then sent her a message in March, which read: 'I'll crush your spine, if you cheat then dissect your feet, attach hooks and hang you upside-down from the feet'. The woman replied: 'Wtf, Ethan that's a bit far'. Ungerboeck wrote: 'I think it's fair'. She responded: 'Wtf, Umm bye'. When she asked whether his threat was serious, he replied: 'I'm joking but I'm not'. Ethan Ungerboeck (left, with his lawyer) was hit with 17 additional charges largely relating to the production and possession of child abuse material in December Ethan Ungerboeck is pictured, right, at a previous hearing at Newtown Local Court with his lawyer, Michael Bowe, left She then started checking the locks on her windows and doors, and police took out an apprehended violence order on her behalf. During sentencing on Monday, magistrate Barko said Ungerboeck was not receiving treatment for his attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiance disorder (ODD) or depression when he threatened his girlfriend. He was also not receiving treatment when he started calling her from a series of payphones and ignoring her requests to be left alone. ADHD is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation, while ODD is a childhood behavioural problem characterised by constant disobedience and hostility towards authority. Mr Barko also said there was a potential future diagnosis of bipolar disorder, as well as the recurring depression that impacted his wellbeing. He described Ungerboeck's behavior as 'extraordinary' and 'way out there', and said it was understandable that the victim feared for her life. He also referred to hospital and psychiatric reports, along with a chronology prepared by his mother of all hospitalisations and mental health issues, dating back to when he was six. The magistrate said the chronology was clearly prepared by 'someone who deeply loves and cares for her son, who was very careful to make sure things were detailed'. Ethan Ungerboeck was bailed to his parents' $6million Maroubra mansion (pictured) Ethan Ungerboeck is not allowed to leave his parents' mansion (pictured) without one of them as an escort 'The long and the short of it is, the defendant has suffered attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiance disorder,' he said. 'His mother's summary clearly shows this is not some forensic manoeuvre [to avoid conviction], its just a culmination of long-term mental health impairment.' Mr Barko said the domestic violence charge was serious and one of the most prevalent offences to appear in court, and required a sentence to serve as a general deterrence. However, he was also satisfied that Ungerboeck was not medicated or being treated for a period of time leading up to his offending. 'Is he likely to endanger the safety of himself, the victim or another member of the public?' the magistrate asked. 'Its always there if he doesnt comply with his treatment plan and continuing insight into these issues and its a sad case always when one has to consider that the potential for him to endanger his own well-being, let alone others.' He said he was 'reluctant' to grant Section 14 applications to those who have squandered opportunities to rectify their behaviour, but he granted Ungerboeck's application due to his age, and that he was not medicated at the time. The charge was dismissed and Ungerboeck was released into the care of a psychiatrist on the condition he complies with his treatment plan. Ethan Ungerboeck went to Scots College (pictured), a wealthy private boys' school in Sydney's eastern suburbs Ungerboeck remains on bail under strict conditions for his other two matters, preventing him from leaving his parents' mansion without one of them as an escort. He is required to present at the front door when police arrive for a curfew check, or a drug and alcohol swab, up to once a day, seven days a week. He is also not allowed to drink alcohol, take drugs, or use gaming platforms. Police can enter his family home and check his devices to ensure he complies with this condition. He is also banned from being in the company of anyone under 18 without adult supervision. Ungerboeck's second DV matter will return to Waverley Local Court - temporarily held in Sydney's CBD while the Bondi Junction courthouse is closed - on February 20. His child exploitation material charges will return to Downing Centre Local Court on February 24. Barnaby Joyce has ripped into immigrants who complain about Australia and told them to return to the 's***holes' they came from. The former deputy prime minister made the blistering comment while speaking with Karl Stefanovic on his new podcast, The Karl Stefanovic Show. The One Nation MP argued Australia should only accept migrants it has the capacity to absorb, insisting migration levels should be tied to housing supply and pressure on essential services. He said the country should prioritise skilled workers in areas of need, such as construction, rather than people likely to rely on welfare. 'You cannot be in the crime pages or on social security,' he said. 'What sort of people do you need? Do you need unemployed people having babies, or do you need builders? 'I don't care if you're coming from the Vatican, Central America, central Africa or the middle of Europe. 'If you turn up and cause problems, you stay where you are. Barnaby Joyce has ripped into immigrants who complain about Australia and told them to return to the 's***holes' they came from The former deputy prime minister made the blistering comment while speaking with Karl Stefanovic on his new podcast The Karl Stefanovic Show 'If you pine for where you came from and say I really want Australia to be just like the s***hole I came from, you go back there.' Joyce said the level of public support he had received since joining One Nation had taken him by surprise. During a recent street walk, he said, he was mobbed by wellwishers. 'We got back to the office and they said it was like going for a walk with a frigging pope,' he said. 'The support for joining One Nation is phenomenal.' A Newspoll published on Sunday night showed popularity remaining strong for One Nation leader Pauline Hanson. Her party's growing primary vote currently sits at 27 per cent, putting it way ahead of the Coalition's primary vote of 18 per cent. The poll also found Opposition leader Sussan Ley is the most disliked party leader in more than two decades. Join the debate Do YOU agree with Barnaby Joyces message to migrants who complain about Australia? Joyce said the country should prioritise skilled workers in areas of need, such as construction (stock image) Joyce said his decision to leave the Nationals reflected a broader shift in conservative politics, driven by frustration with what he described as an increasingly 'sanitised' and disconnected political class in Canberra. 'Politics has changed,' he said. 'It's become a petri dish - union offices, law firms, professional politics. There's a lot of pretending to be someone you're not.' Asked whether he divorced the Nationals after 30 years because of the party or its leader, David Littleproud, Joyce pointed to the latter. 'My relationship with David was completely dysfunctional,' he said. 'It was unbecoming of me. He was discordant. I became bitter and angry, and there seemed no way out.' He compared the split to the end of a marriage that could no longer be salvaged. 'You don't do it flippantly,' he said. 'You think about it for a long while. You try to sort it out. But when it becomes apparent you can't, you walk. 'I was isolated stuck in a corner of the parliament and you just get to a point where you go, I'm out. That's it. I'm gone.' Joyce also lamented what he described as the loss of labourers in Labor, farmers in the Nationals and shopkeepers in the Liberals, saying he believed he was the last federal National to actually own a farm. 'That's just not there anymore,' he said, adding that past parliaments had been filled with exservicemen who had actually served. Residents of Western Australia's North West Cape have battened down the hatches as a downgraded Tropical Cyclone Mitchell pummels the coastline. The powerful system is packing winds of up to 170km/h, heavy rainfall and flash flooding, the Bureau of Meteorology says. Tiny resort town Exmouth - home to fewer than 3,000 permanent residents - remains in the crosshairs of the brunt of the destructive storm. 'I haven't seen the town looking so clean and tidy for as long as I can remember,' Exmouth Shire president Matthew Niikkula told AAP. He said the town has not experienced a cyclone of this strength in a decade, adding conditions could be 'extremely frightening'. 'It's just that darkness and the screaming 200km/h winds that sound like banshees running around outside,' he said. The cyclone's destruction was rated a severe category three system before weakening to a category two on Sunday. 'We have seen a reasonable amount of rainfall - it's been the wind that has been most powerful and most impressive so far, particularly again, over those offshore islands,' senior meteorologist Angus Hines said. People on Western Australia's North West Cape are taking cover as downgraded Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continues to batter the coast Pictured, Cyclone Mitchell is travelling along the coast before going inland Pictured, empty streets of Onslow, WA, are pummelled by heavy rain Tiny resort town Exmouth - home to fewer than 3,000 permanent residents - remains in the crosshairs of the storm A Watch and Act was in place south of Onslow to Coral Bay, including Exmouth and Ningaloo. Cyclone Mitchell is expected to track southeast, impacting western Gascoyne, Carnarvon, Denham and Gascoyne Junction on Monday. 'We expect to see heavy rainfall,' Mr Hines said. 'Storms could lead to flash flooding, could lead to rivers flooding, and will almost certainly lead to significant road closures, which may isolate communities. 'The very strong wind gusts up to over 150 kilometres an hour could bring down entire trees, damage property and cause significant power outages in the northwestern corner of the country.' The system is expected to weaken as it moves inland, becoming a category one cyclone late on Monday. 'This weather system is going to be with us for a number of days as it's going to slide southwards through the interior of Western Australia as a weakening, decaying weather system between Monday and Wednesday,' Mr Hines said. Martha Stewart said it was 'extremely depressing' that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) came to her ritzy New York City suburb. Stewart, 84, voiced her unhappiness about 'what's going on with immigration,' as she revealed the Trump administration's ongoing crackdown had hit close to home. 'We got a notice in my town of Bedford, New York, that ICE was in the schools,' Stewart told USA Today. 'That's extremely depressing.' She added: 'And this is a beautiful suburban town, an hour from New York City. It's crazy.' The Bedford Central School District said Wednesday that ICE officers had been spotted in the area, according to The Daily Voice. '"Big brother" watching is not an easy way to live,' Stewart told the outlet. The lifestyle expert admitted that she had been 'an extremely optimistic person my entire life' but recognized that she was 'feeling a little bit down.' 'I'm not going to get terribly political and criticize anybody individually, but America's a beautiful place, and we have had such a beautiful life here,' she said. 'And we have to continue to have that.' Martha Stewart, 84, admitted that she was 'feeling a little bit down' about the Trump administration's ongoing immigration crackdown Stewart said that ICE agents being spotted in her town of Bedford, New York, was 'extremely depressing' Bedford school district officials said measures were in place to 'ensure that every step taken is in the best interest of our students' wellbeing.' 'We have heard and now confirmed reports that ICE was in Mount Kisco this morning looking for a specific individual,' Rob Glass, the superintendent, wrote. He added: 'We know that news like this can be unsettling, and we want to address it with the utmost transparency and sensitivity.' Stewart lives in a fancy farm house in Katonah, within the town of Bedford, that encompasses 153 acres. She is said to have paid $15million for the land, and has claimed that there are seven houses on the property Local authorities said the ICE operation caused 'disruption' when agents started a search around 8am. 'ICE was searching for one individual, attempting to execute a federal judicial arrest warrant,' Michael Cindrich, the Mount Kisco mayor, told The Examiner. He said local police officers 'did not assist or participate in the search,' which ended roughly two hours later. Join the debate Is Martha Stewart out of touch for calling ICE raids in her posh suburb extremely depressing? Local authorities said that an ICE operation 'searching for one individual' had caused 'disruption' (Photos of ICE agents) Stewart broke her political silence last month when she commented on the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti 'Unfortunately yesterday our federal government, the Department of Homeland Security, ICE, they conducted a law enforcement operation that disrupted families, school children and businesses,' Cinrich added. He said federal authorities were performing traffic stops on Lexington Avenue near Oakwood Cemetery. The mayor denied that the agents had gone doortodoor or entered local businesses. Stewart's recent comments came after she first broke her political silence to comment on the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by US Customs and Border Protection agents on January 24. Department of Homeland Security officials initially said Pretti, 37, approached the officers with a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun. However, witness videos from the scene appeared to show Pretti holding his phone up to the agents not a firearm. He was captured filming agents with his device as they arrested a female protester, before suddenly being tackled to the ground. Footage suggested that one officer took Pretti's weapon from his waistband and walked away with it just moments before he was killed. Pretti, 37, was shot dead by US Customs and Border Protection agents on January 24. His death sparked widespread reactions across the country, including from Stewart 'My granddaughter wrote this to me yesterday,' Stewart said last month. 'She is 14 and sensitive to what is going on in our country as we all should be.' The text read, 'I'm not sure if it's excusable to not be speaking up right now.' Stewart said that she was distraught by the ongoing immigration crackdown across the country. 'I am disheartened and sad each and every day that we cannot demonstrate our sympathy for the beleaguered, that we are told immigrants, which most of us are or descended from are unwelcome,' she said. Stewart added that she was upset 'that we cannot show our frustration in peaceful demonstrations and that we can be attacked and even killed by federal troops.' 'Things must have to change quickly and peacefully,' she added. Steve Bannon has issued a blunt and ominous warning to Donald Trump and the Republican Party, declaring that enthusiasm among the MAGA base is collapsing ahead of the critical 2026 midterm elections. The former White House strategist, who remains one of Trump's most vocal and influential allies is demanding immediate action before it's too late. During a recent episode of his War Room podcast, Bannon accused Republican leaders of failing to energize their own supporters amid political infighting and mounting frustrations over domestic and foreign policy priorities. 'Step up and do something,' he said. 'You have a massive lack of enthusiasm among the base because they're sitting there going, 'I'm just not feeling it right now.' The stark warning reflects growing concern within Trump's political orbit that the populist movement which propelled him to power and is central to Republican electoral success, may be losing momentum at a critical moment, with control of Congress hanging in the balance. Bannon singled out congressional Republicans for what he described as a lack of resolve, accusing them of retreating during negotiations over funding for the Department of Homeland Security rather than confronting Democrats head-on. His comments come as new polling suggests Republicans may face an uphill battle come November's midterms. According to survey data from Big Data Poll, run by conservative pollster Rich Baris, Democrats currently hold an advantage on the generic congressional ballot. Steve Bannon warned that there is a 'massive lack of enthusiasm' among the MAGA base ahead of the 2026 midterm elections Bannon urged President Donald Trump and Republican leaders to 'step up and do something' during his War Room podcast 'On the initial Generic Ballot without leaners, 46.1 percent of likely voters say they would vote for the Democratic candidate and 42.0 percent say they would vote for the Republican candidate,' the poll suggests. The same polling also pointed to an enthusiasm gap between the parties that could prove decisive. 'Democrats have expanded their advantage among those who are "Extremely Enthusiastic" to vote, 53.6 percent to 41.8 percent,' the findings showed. Baris himself warned that Republicans cannot afford complacency if they hope to recover ground before voters head to the polls. 'If Republicans are going to experience a comeback, something has got to change sooner rather than later,' he said. Mark Mitchell, head pollster at Rasmussen Reports, offered an even sharper critique of the current political climate in a recent op-ed for The New York Post, arguing that the administration's messaging and focus may be undermining its political standing. 'The Trump administration chose theatrics over results, and is paying the price politically,' Mitchell wrote. 'Rather than doubling down on systemic accountability, the last few months have felt unfocused, with counter-signaling on affordability and jobs, infighting, the Epstein saga, renewed foreign entanglements and a governing posture that feels reactive rather than intentional. Voters are noticing.' After leaving the White House, Bannon remained a prominent outside ally and continued to support Trump and his political movement through his War Room podcast. Pictured, 2023 Polling from Big Data Poll found 46.1 percent of likely voters favored Democrats compared to 42.0 percent for Republicans on the generic ballot Steve Bannon claimed on his War Room podcast that federal immigration officers would be present around polling places during the 2026 midterm elections Bannon's warning underscores a growing divide within the conservative movement itself, as some supporters have expressed frustration that Trump's administration has devoted significant attention to international issues while everyday economic concerns continue to weigh heavily on American households. The former strategist has also escalated his rhetoric in recent weeks, making explosive claims about election security and federal enforcement. 'You're damn right we're going to have ICE surround the polls come November,' Bannon said on his War Room podcast. 'We're not going to sit here and allow you to steal the country again. And you can whine and cry and throw your toys out of the pram all you want, but we will never again allow an election to be stolen.' White House chief of staff Susie Wiles pushed back on the suggestion that federal agents would be deployed to polling places, calling the claim 'categorically false' in an interview with Vanity Fair. Under the US Constitution, elections are administered primarily by state and local governments, not federal authorities. Bannon claimed on his podcast that federal immigration officers would 'have ICE surround the polls come November' Steve Bannon served as Donald Trumps chief strategist and senior counselor during the early months of his presidency in 2017. The pair are pictured in January 2017 Still, Trump himself has publicly questioned whether the federal government should play a larger role in overseeing elections. 'If you think about it, a state is an agent for the federal government in elections,' Trump said during an Oval Office press conference. 'I don't know why the federal government doesn't do them anyway.' He added that federal intervention might be necessary if states fail to ensure election integrity. 'Look at some of the places - that horrible corruption on elections - and the federal government should not allow that,' Trump said. 'If they can't count the vote legally and honestly, then somebody else should take over.' Scrapping the tourist tax would deliver a 7billion boost to Britains high streets, business groups have told the Prime Minister. The bosses of trade organisations - including the Heart of London Business Alliance, the Association of Town and City Management, and the Association of International Retail - are the latest to say that more needs to be done to help the high street. In the letter, the three groups told Keir Starmer that reinstating a VAT-free shopping scheme for foreign tourists would position Britain as Europes premier shopping destination for international visitors, investors and brands in retail and hospitality. The letter also says that the business rates system is fundamentally broken and a complete overhaul would help high streets to the tune of 2billion. More than 500 UK business leaders have backed a Mail campaign to bring back the 20 per cent refund scheme to encourage tourism. And now fresh analysis from the Association of International Retail, which represents destinations like Bicester Village and Heathrow Airport, claims that this would provide a 7billion annual boost and support an estimated 140,000 jobs. They say the country would be able to recover an estimated 2billion that is currently diverted from UK high streets to EU destinations each year. And it would also unlock a new EU shopper market - which could generate 5billion if on par with the level of spending from Brits in shops, hotels, pubs, and restaurants throughout the EU last year. Business leaders have told Sir Keir Starmer that scrapping the tourist tax would deliver a 7billion boost to British high streets Among those pushing for tax-free shopping to be reinstated are Harrods, Primark and Marks & Spencer, and luxury brands Burberry and Mulberry. Instead of spending money in Britain, tourists are flocking to Paris, Milan and Berlin, leaving these economies to reap the rewards at the UKs expense. But lifting the tourist tax would make the UK the one European destination to offer rebates to 450 million EU customers, as well as tourists from elsewhere. Before the Conservatives axed tax-free shopping in 2021, tourists from outside the EU could receive a 20 per cent VAT refund on purchases in the UK. Now the UK has left the EU and its customs union, EU residents could shop tax-free alongside high-spenders from China and the US. The letter also urges the Government to commit to a full impact review of tax-free shopping in what would be a a cost-free and credible demonstration of support for high streets which would be widely welcomed by businesses across the UK. Their plea comes as some of Britains best-known restaurateurs, hoteliers and chefs, have warned Labour its tax raid will run many more firms into the ground and leave town centres desolate. Concerns about the high street are rife as familiar names, including River Island, Claires Accessories and Poundland, have shut shops and axe jobs in recent weeks. Business rates have been in the spotlight after increases to the tax for hospitality and retail at last years Budget sparked a huge backlash. Lifting the tourist tax would make the UK the one European destination to offer rebates to 450million EU customers. Business leaders say the existing system is 'fundamentally broken and requires structural reform' After more than 1,500 venues banned Labour MPs from their premises, the Chancellor slightly backtracked to offer respite to pub and music venues in the form of a 15 per cent discount off their bill. But other parts of the hospitality sector - including restaurants, hotels and cafes - will miss out on the 15 per cent discount amid fears that many more will go to the wall and axe jobs in the coming months. And industry figures say the whole system - which they feel penalises brick-and-mortar businesses over online giants - needs to be re-done. In their letter to Starmer, the trio of groups said a current Government consultation into rates reform only focuses on incremental adjustments. But the system is fundamentally broken and requires structural reform, the letter argues. The groups propose introducing a 2 per cent levy on all online sales, in order to reduce all business rate bills by 35 per cent - which they say would create a fairer, level playing field between high street and digital trading. The letter follows businesses saying more needs to be done after Labour last week announced an extra 800million of neighbourhood funding to give people a say on how money is spent in their areas. Helen Dickinson, chief executive at the British Retail Consortium, said: We welcome the additional funding to support the rejuvenation of local neighbourhoods. 'The high street remains the centre of our communities, and the Prime Minister has spelled out the challenge of boarded up shops and gap-toothed high streets. 'This not only harms community pride but limits employment opportunities and economic growth made possible by a thriving high street. And while the heart of communities is the high street, the heart of the problem remains business rates. This tax is the final nail for thousands of boarded up shops, and a key factor when deciding whether to open new stores or close existing ones. 'If Government wants local neighbourhoods to thrive long into the future, it must make good on their promise for meaningful reform of the broken business rates system once and for all. Keir Starmers premiership was in freefall on Sunday after his right-hand man walked the plank over the Mandelson scandal. Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney quit over his part in the disastrous appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. Mr McSweeney said he took full responsibility for the decision to send the disgraced peer to Washington, despite knowing he had stood by Jeffrey Epstein after the depraved financier was jailed for child-sex offences. But Labour MPs are openly speculating about how long Sir Keir can continue without the man who masterminded his rise to power and who was seen as the PMs brain. Left-wingers called for the PM to resign, with former campaigns chief Jon Trickett warning: The buck stops at the top. Brian Leishman, the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, added: There must be a change in political direction and that comes from the very top. So the Prime Minister must look at his own position and question whether he should follow McSweeneys lead one last time, and resign for the good of the country and the Labour Party. Liverpool MP Kim Johnson said the PMs position was untenable, while York MP Rachael Maskell described Mr McSweeneys departure as a start. Keir Starmers premiership was in freefall on Sunday after his right-hand man walked the plank over the Mandelson scandal (Pictured: The Prime Minister on January 27, 2026) Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney quit over his part in the disastrous appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador (Pictured: McSweeney and Starmer on Sunday) Mandelson was sacked last week amid revelations about his friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein (Pictured: Mandelson on June 18, 2025, in London) McSweeney's goodbye in full 'After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the Government. The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside. This has not been an easy decision. Much has been written and said about me over the years but my motivations have always been simple: I have worked every day to elect and support a government that puts the lives of ordinary people first and leads us to a better future for our great country. Only a Labour government will do that. I leave with pride in all we have achieved mixed with regret at the circumstances of my departure. But I have always believed there are moments when you must accept your responsibility and step aside for the bigger cause. As I leave I have two further reflections: Firstly, and most importantly, we must remember the women and girls whose lives were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein and whose voices went unheard for far too long. Secondly, while I did not oversee the due diligence and vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled. This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future. I remain fully supportive of the Prime Minister. He is working every day to rebuild trust, restore standards and serve the country. I will continue to back that mission in whatever way I can. It has been the honour of my life to serve. Advertisement Last night, Sir Keir was drawing up plans for an emergency address to the nation to set out plans to clean up politics and to signal to the public and financial markets that he is not on the brink of quitting. Sources said the Governments policy agenda has not changed. The PM is also expected to address MPs at a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party today. Leadership rivals including Angela Rayner and Health Secretary Wes Streeting were last night jockeying for position in a potential leadership contest. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy also appeared to be eyeing his chances as he let it be known that he advised the PM against appointing Mandelson. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is being talked up as a potential king-maker in any contest, with some allies suggesting he could even run himself, despite being roundly rejected by the public a decade ago. Sir Keirs dwindling band of allies warned that forcing out the PM just 18 months after Labours landslide win could tip both the party and country into turmoil. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said ditching the PM would cause chaos and uncertainty economically, politically and reputationally around the world. Kemi Badenoch welcomed Mr McSweeneys resignation, saying it was about time. But the Tory leader said the PM ultimately had to take responsibility for agreeing an appointment that has triggered a wave of public revulsion. In a post on X, she said: Once again with this PM its somebody elses fault: Mandelson lied to me or Morgan advised me. Keir Starmer has to take responsibility for his own terrible decisions. But he never does. Mr McSweeney is the second chief of staff to depart during Sir Keirs turbulent reign, following the sacking of Sue Gray just months after the 2024 election. Labour calls have mounted for his resignation in recent days following the release of emails by the US Department of Justice suggesting that Mandelson leaked market-sensitive information to Epstein while serving as business secretary. Sir Keir last week said he had full confidence in his chief of staff, telling MPs: Hes an essential part of my team. In a resignation statement, Mr McSweeney said: The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. In a swipe at Whitehall and the security services, Mr McSweeney said the vetting system for appointments had to be fundamentally overhauled. Join the debate Is Labour already preparing for life after Starmer? Friends of Mr McSweeney said the PM had made a disastrous decision in letting him go. One source said it was like breaking the legs of your star striker (Pictured: McSweeney at Downing Street on 10 October, 2024) Mr McSweeneys deputies Jill Cuthbertson and Vidhya Alakeson will step up as joint acting chiefs of staff in the short term. Friends of Mr McSweeney said the PM had made a disastrous decision in letting him go. One source said it was like breaking the legs of your star striker, adding: We will all have to see if Keir can survive alone. A Labour MP told the House magazine that Mr McSweeneys departure would trigger a lurch to the Left and leave the party moving full speed ahead to uber-woke, net-zeroist, rejoinerism. Supporters of Ms Rayner and Mr Streeting traded blows yesterday as the prospects of an imminent leadership race intensified. An ally of Mr Streeting pointed to Ms Rayners unresolved dispute with HMRC over unpaid stamp duty on her luxury second home, adding: Its a very hard pitch to suggest you want to replace one scandal-ridden leader with another. But an ally of Ms Rayner suggested the Health Secretary would be undone by his past friendship with Lord Mandelson. Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews' government backed thousands of 'golden ticket' visas via a program allegedly abused for money laundering. It can be revealed the Victorian government sponsored more visas to Chinese tycoons through the 'Significant Investor Visa' program than any other state. New figures reveal the Victorian Government nominated a total of 5,277 magnates, mostly Chinese migrants, on the visa known as Australias 'Golden Ticket'. The Andrews administration backed 3,445 visas between 2014 and 2018 via the 'fraud-prone' program which was axed by the Federal Government last year after damning reviews. Department of Home Affairs data reveals Victoria's Golden Tickets dwarfed the rest of the nations states and territories, which only signed off a combined 4,920 visas. Applicants were required to contribute at least $5million into 'complying, high-growth Australian assets for at least four years'. These investments included putting at least $1.5million into 'small-cap companies' listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. The program was viewed as a gateway to permanent residency with initial visa application costs for the main applicant coming in at $14,670. Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews approved 3445 visas between 2014 and 2018 Andrews was filmed being greeted by President Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan on a red carpet procession in China If a person didn't speak English they needed to pay an 'extra charge' to secure their visa. State governments were responsible for nominating candidates who would then be processed and approved by the Department of Home Affairs. Andrews pressed on with the scheme despite a 2016 Productivity Commission review finding the program was 'prone to fraud'. The review found evidence of 'rorting and money laundering' while also highlighting 'investments were of little economic benefit'. It also warned the visa 'attracted individuals perceived to have less business acumen', before finally recommending the program's termination However, the Victorian government promoted the visa for years after the warnings and it was central in multiple trips Andrews made to China. The Golden Ticket jackpot coincided with Andrews giving the 2018 Belt and Road Initiative deal in Victoria the greenlight. The controversial deal was ripped up by the federal government in 2021 due to 'national security concerns'. One of Andrews' more recent public appearance was when he was snapped in China while watching a huge Communist military parade in September The program, which was launched in 2012, was found to 'offer minimal economic benefit' and, in some cases, it was 'exploited for money laundering'. It's been reported Victorian visa recipients pledged $8.1billion in investments to the state's economy but it's unclear where the money was spent. Magnates from mainland China secured 4436 visas, which was the majority approved and obtained under the scheme. Hong Kong came in second with 369 visas approved, followed by Malaysia with 118. Only 30 visas from the US, 15 from Japan, and 14 from the UK were approved. In the meantime, Andrews is still recovering from a serious health issue. The 53-year-old was taken to Monash Clayton Hospital in Melbourne's southeast just before Christmas and reportedly remains in a 'very bad way' amid speculation he has suffered some kind of stroke. One of Andrews' more recent public appearances was when he was snapped in China while watching a huge Communist military parade in September. Andrews was filmed being greeted by President Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan on a red carpet procession before the parade kicked off. Andrews (pictured above with wife Catherine) is battling a serious health issue Andrews and Xi shook hands for several seconds as both men appeared to exchange warm pleasantries. He also posed alongside world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korea's Kim Jong Un and Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian. It is understood that Andrews was attending in a personal capacity, plying his trade as a lobbyist after leaving political office. The desperate search for an experienced missing fisherman and father has been suspended by police, as loved ones raise funds to support his family. Ashleigh Haigh, 44, was reported missing on Thursday night after he failed to return from a trip off the Gold Coast. His empty black half-cabin pleasure craft was found 46km offshore at about 2am on Friday. A day later, an inactive Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) was discovered about 25km off Ballina on Saturday. But on Sunday morning, police confirmed that the search and rescue operation had shifted to a recovery phase before efforts were suspended last night. No further items or signs of life have been found despite police scouring more than 1,800 square nautical miles over four days - from the Gold Coast to the Northern Rivers region in NSW. Mr Haigh is a former president and current member of the Gold Coast Game Fish Club, which is supporting his loved ones during this difficult time. It is understood numerous members have joined the hunt for the missing fisherman. Experienced fisherman Ashleigh Haigh (pictured, right) was reported missing on Thursday night after he failed to return from a trip off the Gold Coast His empty black half-cabin pleasure craft was found 46km offshore about 2am on Friday Authorities suspended the search for Mr Haigh on Sunday morning Friends of Mr Haigh launched a GoFundMe to help ease the minds of his wife, Jess, and the family as they navigate this difficult period, raising more than $25,000 in 24 hours. 'Ash, a very experienced game fisher, went out on Thursday to enjoy a day on the water, with all intentions of joining his family for dinner that night,' the fundraiser said. 'Unfortunately he has not come home and has not been able to be located after an exhausting search. 'Ash was a pillar in his fishing club, he was an incredible dad, a loving partner and just an all-round top bloke. 'We know that everyone who has ever come in contact with him will remember his infectious laugh, great sense of humour and have so many good times to share. 'Losing Ash suddenly is unfathomable and we want Jess and the kids to not have the extra stress that comes with losing the main financial provider while they navigate this time.' Police said officers continue to be in contact with the mans family, who have been advised that the search has been suspended. Acting Senior Sergeant Shannon Gray told reporters on Saturday that Mr Haigh's boat was found 'generally in good condition'. Search and rescue efforts had focused on waters from the Tweed to Yamba on Sunday Data from FlightAware showed a rescue plane leaving Melbourne just before midnight on Friday and circling the area of the unmanned boat for about five hours 'He had a lot of marine experience,' he said. 'The water conditions yesterday were ideal... The boat itself is generally in good condition, there is some water in the hull, but further examination will take place.' Act Snr Sgt Gray said the keys to the boat were on a seat inside and that only three of the four lifejackets on board had been located. 'But the information source can't 100 per cent confirm there were four, so at this stage we're unaware,' he said. 'That's the best-case scenario and that will give him a better chance if he is in the water with that lifejacket on. 'His phone, we haven't been able to locate, but it's believed it was in the boat somewhere. He may have it on him. 'I've spoken with his wife multiple times today it's a very difficult time for them.' Data from FlightAware showed a rescue plane leaving Melbourne just before midnight on Friday and circling the area of the unmanned boat for about five hours. Marine Rescue NSW then confirmed on Sunday that crews had been focusing on waters from the Tweed to Yamba. Police continue to appeal to anyone with information regarding the mans location or welfare to come forward. The family of the married woman at the centre of AFL star Lachie Neale's split from wife Jules have broken their silence on the league's hottest scandal. Softly-spoken and religious, mother-of-one Tess Crosley has found herself in the middle of a media storm ever since Jules told her to stop 'embarrassing' herself and delete cosy photos of the Brisbane Lions golden boy from her Instagram account. The confrontation came after Jules, who shares two young children with Lachie, revealed on December 19 she had been betrayed by her husband of seven years in the most 'unimaginable way'. Tess has so far refused to comment on speculation she was the 'other woman' in the Neales' split, and has not confirmed the status of her marriage to finance director Ben Crosley, who last month said she was no longer living at their marital home. Now, in an unexpected twist, those closest to Tess are beginning to speak out on her behalf. Their intervention came after Tess reignited speculation about the alleged affair by posting a cryptic Instagram quote last week that read: 'There is always another story, there is more than meets the eye.' The message, shared alongside a breezy selfie, quickly fuelled rumours that there was more to the situation than a straightforward affair. But it also drew criticism from those who accused Tess of sidestepping responsibility for her alleged actions. One viral TikTok clip, which slammed Tess for failing to own her mistakes, struck a nerve with her family. Her mother Kaz Caesar and sister Ceinwen Parsons responded fiercely and publicly, insisting the narrative had been unfairly onesided. The family of the married woman at the centre of AFL star Lachie Neale's split from wife Jules have broken their silence on the league's hottest scandal. (Pictured from left: Tess Crosley, her husband Ben, and former Brisbane Lions captain Lachie Neale after last year's AFL grand final) Tess' sister Ceinwen Parsons (left) and mother Kaz Caesar (right) have lashed out on social media, claiming that Tess has been unfairly portrayed as the villain in the saga 'There are four people involved, and none of them are innocent; however, one person has been allowed to be the villain and told to keep quiet right from the beginning,' Mrs Caesar wrote in a now-deleted comment. She also rejected claims her daughter was enjoying the attention, decrying what she viewed as weeks of harassment and intrusion from the media. 'People say she is loving the attention - [that's] far from the truth. Have you been stalked by sleazy reporters taking a hundred photos at a time just to find one they can sell? Then the papers clickbaiting or adding AI photos. Then the public falling for the story as absolute truth. 'What has our society become? Better still, do you think making TikToks about this makes you so high and mighty?' The Daily Mail did not add any AI-generated photos to its coverage. Crosley's younger sister echoed those sentiments, saying there was a 'heartbreaking' backstory behind the scandal and accusing critics of ignoring the toll it had taken. 'You have no idea the extensive abuse she has received so how would she feel comfortable sharing her side of the story. She will only be cast down further,' Ceinwen wrote. 'She has a story, it is actually heartbreaking, and yes she has made mistakes too, but remember she is just a human, and a good one, regardless of all people's assumptions and accusations.' Last week, Tess shared a cryptic Instagram post hinting there was 'more than meets the eye' after she was accused of a months-long affair with the Brisbane Lions star Comments were turned off, but Tess' puzzling post has nonetheless reignited speculation The Mail contacted Jules Neale for her response to the claim by Tess' family that there was more to the story and that none of the four people involved 'are innocent'. Her spokesperson declined to comment; however, a source close to Jules said she was furious at the false suggestion she was anything but an innocent party. The saga erupted over the Christmas break when Jules publicly declared the end of her marriage to Lachie, pointed the finger of blame at her former friend Tess, and moved from Brisbane to Perth with her two children. By January 2, amid intense media scrutiny, Lachie had stepped down as co-captain of the Lions. Jules allegedly discovered the affair after a fellow Brisbane WAG spotted Lachie and Tess together in a car. After confiding in another woman within the Lions' social circle, the unnamed spouse then told Jules what she had witnessed. Tess (left) and her husband Ben (second from right) were once inseparable from Lachie Neale and his wife Jules (pictured together after the AFL grand final in November last year) A source close to Jules (above, with estranged husband Lachie Neale) said she was furious at the false suggestion she was anything but an innocent party In relinquishing captaincy of the Lions earlier this month, the two-time Brownlow Medal winner apologised, but stopped short of a full admission of infidelity. 'While I will not go into specifics, I can say that I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions, which have hurt those closest to me. For that, I am deeply sorry,' he told reporters. 'I accept this as a consequence of my actions and I need to focus on rebuilding trust with Jules, as the future well-being of our children remains our number one priority.' The press conference at Brighton Homes Arena escalated when a journalist asked whether he had cheated on his wife, a question the star midfielder declined to address. Weeks later, on January 18, the Daily Mail briefly spoke to Tess' husband Ben on the doorstep of the couple's marital home in Camp Hill, seeking clarification on the state of their marriage. 'She does not live here anymore,' was all he would say. However, since then Ben has been observed liking posts on Lachie's Instagram account - a puzzling move given the premiership-winning AFL captain allegedly had an affair with his wife. New to DailyMail+? Here are our most-read stories from the last week Expelled and labelled a 'monster': School insider reveals the tragic lives of the autistic Clune boys before they were killed by their 'sleep-deprived' parents in a quiet Mosman Park cul-de-sac A patriarch scarred by horrors of war, and two very unusual marriages: We reveal the deeply complicated world of Gus Lamont's Outback family Meet Justin Hemmes' gatekeepers: The powerful - and discreet - women in the pub tsar's inner circle after Merivale's year from hell, including the enigmatic ex-model dubbed the 'Queen of Level 6' Eastern suburbs housewives' toxic BFF bust-up ends in restraining order... Plus, shady move by Double Bay chiro accused of choking ex: THE GROUP CHAT He has a type! 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But you CAN grow it. I missed my chance - and now my life is ruined Shocking rumour about Dan Andrews' ailing health - straight from Labor powerbrokers... Plus, Abbie's move against viral comedian - and new investigation into Selwood death: COSTELLO'S MELBOURNE You CAN lose weight - and keep it off - with PCOS. After trying every diet, a cheap supplement helped me lose 55kg - and now I don't need Ozempic Ministers are under pressure to claw back a 50,000 payoff handed to Peter Mandelson when he was sacked as US ambassador over his links to Jeffrey Epstein. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden appealed on Sunday to Mandelson to give up the golden goodbye, which he was handed despite being sacked last year after further revelations about his friendship with the notorious paedophile were published. But Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel said ministers had a duty to taxpayers to pursue the money rather than relying on him to do the right thing. She said: A five-figure taxpayer funded payout for Lord Mandelson is a disgusting betrayal of Epsteins victims. Once again it raises very serious questions about the Prime Ministers judgment and his disgraced chief of staff Morgan McSweeney. The Government must ensure Mandelsons golden goodbye is recovered in full. Downing Street has refused to comment on the size of Mandelsons payoff or whether action is being taken to claw it back. A No 10 spokesman described it as a HR matter. But the Foreign Office indicated that he had been paid off, with a spokesman saying his employment was terminated last September in accordance with legal advice and the terms and conditions of his employment. The spokesman added: As we have consistently said to Parliament, normal civil service HR processes were followed. Ministers are under pressure to claw back a 50,000 payoff handed to Peter Mandelson when he was sacked as US ambassador over his links to Jeffrey Epstein (Pictured: June 18, 2025) Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden appealed on Sunday to Mandelson to give up the golden goodbye (Pictured: McFadden during an appearance on the BBC on February 8, 2026) Join the debate Should MPs force full transparency over Mandelsons contract and payoff? A review has been instigated in light of further information that has now been revealed and the ongoing police investigation. The Foreign Office has refused to say how much of taxpayers money Mandelson was given when he was sacked last year. He is thought to have received a payment of three months salary. The former US ambassador was reportedly employed on a civil service pay band of between 155,000 and 220,000, suggesting he received a payoff of between 38,750 and 55,000. The exact figures are likely to be released in the coming weeks after MPs voted last week to demand the release of tens of thousands of documents relating to his appointment and employment. A Government source told The Sunday Times that Mandelson had initially asked for a much greater sum after being sacked just seven months into a four-year contract. Asked whether Mandelson should return the payoff, Mr McFadden yesterday told Sky News: I think he probably should, yes. Either of those, either give it back or give it to a charity. Perhaps one involving violence against women and girls. Your browser does not support iframes. I think taking a payoff in these circumstances, I dont think the public will think much of that. A No 10 source echoed the comments, saying: Given what we know now, Mandelson should either pay the money back or give it to a charity to support victims. Mandelson was appointed as US ambassador despite reports in the public domain that he had maintained his friendship with Epstein and even stayed in his New York mansion while the paedophile was in prison. He was sacked in September following the release of emails showing he urged the depraved financier to fight his conviction for child sex offences. The Israeli Air Force scrambled fighter jets to escort a passenger plane to safety after a child changed his parents' phone's Wi-Fi hotspot to the word 'terrorist.' The plane, Wizz Air flight W95301, was flying into Ben Gurion Airport from London's Luton Airport on Sunday afternoon when one passenger purportedly received a 'threatening message' on their phone. Israeli media reported that the message appeared on a phone belonging to an ultra-Orthodox couple. The supposed message was the name of a Wi-Fi hotspot that had been changed by their son to the Arabic word for 'terrorist', which quickly sparked panic. After the Israeli Air Force scrambled several jets, the Wizz Air flight was escorted to the Tel Aviv travel hub. Data from FlightRadar showed the plane made three loops over the Mediterranean Sea just south of Cyprus before it landed in Israel. Upon arriving at the airport, passengers and their belongings were investigated by bomb-sniffing dogs. A spokesperson for the Israel Airports Authority told the Times of Israel: 'The aircraft landed, and it was found that there was no real incident.' The Wizz Air plane was flying into Ben Gurion Airport from London's Luton Airport on Sunday afternoon when one passenger purportedly received a 'threatening message' on their phone (File image) Air traffic returned to normal after flights to and from Ben Gurion were briefly paused. The Daily Mail has contacted Wizz Air for comment. It comes just weeks after a passenger plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Barcelona after a woman spotted a fellow passenger making bomb threats on his phone. The plane, a Turkish Airlines jet that departed from Istanbul airport and landed at El Prat Airport, was escorted by Spanish and French jets over the Mediterranean Sea. The threat was detected as the plane was near the coast of Italy. Spanish media reported that the crew was alerted by a woman who said she had seen another passenger make a bomb threat on his phone. The plane circled several times before landing. Police surrounded the plane and boarded it soon after. Britain's 'low-hire, low-fire' jobs market is at its weakest in 15 years according to the latest evidence of the economy's sluggish performance under Labour. Figures from accountants BDO showed that while many employers were holding on to staff, they were reluctant to hire or invest. It came as a separate poll from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) showed a decline in new permanent roles had extended into the new year. The recruitment industry body said the government must change course if it wants to avoid a further rise in unemployment already at a post-pandemic high of 5.1 per cent. The reports represent a further blow to Chancellor Rachel Reeves's claim that the economy will turn a corner this year. Instead, tax rises, minimum wage hikes and a raft of new workers' rights are putting the brakes on Britain's beleaguered businesses. Last week, the Bank of England downgraded its forecast for GDP growth this year to just 0.9 per cent and said unemployment would rise to 5.3 per cent, adding more than 70,000 to the jobs scrap heap. BDO's report pointed to 'continued weakness in labour market conditions'. The reports represent a blow to Chancellor Rachel Reeves's claim that the economy will improve this year Tax rises, minimum wage hikes and a raft of new workers' rights are putting the brakes on Britain's beleaguered businesses Its employment index reflecting trends such as hiring intentions and job numbers at firms fell for a third consecutive month in January to its lowest level since March 2011. The survey of 4,000 firms found that demand for staff was weak as employers prioritise 'cost control and resilience'. Hopes that clarity provided by the Budget would boost the jobs market have yet to materialise, the report found. Scott Knight, head of growth at BDO, said: 'What we're seeing here is a low-hire, low-fire labour market. Businesses are holding on to staff where they can, but they are reluctant to hire or invest while underlying conditions remain weak.' Meanwhile the findings from REC pointed to a further decline in permanent placements in January while vacancies also continued to decrease. REC chief executive Neil Carberry said: 'The decisions firms are now making involve lots of trade-offs, such as whether to create jobs in the UK or elsewhere, or which jobs need the human touch as opposed to an automated solution. 'A growing, inclusive economy requires high levels of employment a focus on encouraging firms to create jobs rather than discouraging that investment is more important than ever. 'So far, the Government has struggled to convince businesses it wants them to hire. That has to change in the decisions that are made this year if we are to avoid a continued rise in unemployment.' A Tennessee woman captured the moment a US Marshal agent kicked her dog during her boyfriend's arrest. Emma Hollingsworth claimed the agent injured her pup while they were arresting her boyfriend, Jaquize Henderson, outside of their Memphis apartment on Wednesday. Federal officers had an arrest warrant for Henderson in connection with a commercial burglary in North Mississippi, according to court records obtained by Action News 5. Hollingsworth said her boyfriend had surrendered peacefully to the officers. But as he was being arrested, their nine-month-old Schnauzer, Yoshi, bolted out the front door. Videos of the ordeal show Yoshi dashing and barking around agents outside before an agent in a bright blue cap forcefully kicked him. Another angle of the incident, captured by a nearby camera outside the home, showed a task force member attempting to shoo the small pup away from their K9. As the Schnauzer barked and continued running, the same agent is seen striking the dog, sending it backward. 'My dog came out running. He was like, "What's going on?" And so the US Marshal kicked him very hard, forcefully, for no reason,' she told Fox13. Emma Hollingsworth captured the moment a US Marshal kicked her dog while her boyfriend was being arrested Emma Hollingsworth claimed that the Marshal injured her nine-month-old Schnauzer, Yoshi Hollingsworth said she took the dog to the vet, where he was treated for a broken rib and prescribed medication. The pooch is now recovering from his injuries. She took to social media to share the video, expressing her frustration about the treatment Yoshi endured. 'This isn't protection this is abuse. US Marshals came to our home, used unnecessary force, and kicked my dog, leaving him with a broken rib,' she wrote on Facebook. Hollingsworth also told Action News 5 that she couldnt retrieve her dog because a marshal was blocking her in the doorway of her apartment. In a statement to the outlets about the arrest, the US Marshal's Service said 'a dog from one of the apartments got loose and tried repeatedly and aggressively to attack the working K9.' They added that the dog owner was told to restrain the animal, but the owner 'did not do so.' Responding to the viral video circulating on social media, the agency said, 'While the appearance of the incident is unfortunate, the deputy marshals action was not done with malice. Another angle of the incident, captured by a nearby camera outside the home, showed a task force member attempting to shoo the small pup away from their K9 The agent in a bright blue cap is seen striking the dog, sending it backward 'It was a last-resort, split-second action taken by a law enforcement officer to control the environment and mitigate a dangerous situation. 'An uncontrolled, aggressive animal can hinder official duties and threaten safety,' the agency stated. They also reminded dog owners to keep their pets leashed at all times. Daily Mail reached out to US Marshals for comment. A professional victim who launched countless employment tribunal claims has finally been stopped after being exposed by the Daily Mail. Christian Mallon made seeking compensation his chosen career, according to a judge, firing off more than 4,600 often hopeless job applications, not to secure employment but so he could cry discrimination, often involving his ADHD and autism disabilities, no matter how weak his application. Yet only now, after the Daily Mail reported on his Artificial Intelligence-aided campaign, has the Attorney General banned him from launching fresh vexatious employment tribunal claims. A Restriction of Proceedings Order is now in force against him, meaning he is banned from initiating claims. His groundless cases, on almost an industrial scale, have forced scores of firms to waste thousands in legal costs. Yet action was only taken after a series of Daily Mail exposes in 2024. In November Attorney General Lord Hermer secured an order against Mr Mallon, 51, of Cannock, Staffordshire. It comes despite the Government widening access to Employment Tribunals. Agreeing to the Attorney Generals application, Employment Appeal Tribunal judge Sir Martin Griffiths ruled Mr Mallon had made countless unsuccessful discrimination claims against potential employers. The indefinite order meant a final four claims Mr Mallon started against Ernst and Young accountants and Baxi Heating boiler suppliers last June, as well as the National Nuclear Laboratory and the West Midlands Growth Company in July, were stopped dead. Christian Mallon (pictured) has been banned by the Attorney General from launching fresh vexatious employment tribunal claims Since 2017, Mr Mallon (pictured) has launched cases against employers including the Cabinet Office, the Department for Business, Rolls Royce, Honda and Aston University Mr Mallon (pictured) has submitted more than 4,600 job applications, not to secure employment but so he could cry discrimination Since 2017 Mr Mallon launched cases against employers including the Cabinet Office, the Department for Business, Rolls Royce, Honda and Aston University. He also applied to be a ministers chief adviser at the Northern Irish Department of Agriculture, which would have seen him in charge of 900 staff and a 335million budget. Upon rejection, Mr Mallon who has a PhD in chemical engineering would file a claim. His basis was usually for disability discrimination, saying employers failed to make reasonable adjustments, such as offering an oral interview, for his dyspraxia, autism and ADHD. He also claimed age, race and religious belief discrimination, as well as harassment. Judge Griffiths said Mr Mallons right to justice was not impaired by the ban as he can apply to the Employment Tribunals appeal tier to bring cases, if reasonable. The father of one, who represented himself, told the Royal Courts of Justice he believes he made between 60 and 70 claims and blamed judgments against him on people who do not fully understand neurodiversity. Mr Mallon who won just one case and has reportedly been paid tens of thousands of pounds in settlements did not respond to a request for comment. The Liberal Party is bracing for a leadership showdown this week, with allies of shadow defence minister Angus Taylor preparing to launch a spill against Opposition Leader Sussan Ley. The timing of the move remains fluid, with key senators tied up in estimates hearings, but party sources say a challenge could be triggered at any point from Tuesday through to Friday. Insiders say the push to unseat Ley is being orchestrated by shadow finance minister James Paterson, positioning Taylor for a tilt at the leadership. It comes after Paterson was photographed with Taylor and Canning MP Andrew Hastie, who has bowed out of the leadership race after failing to rally enough support from his colleagues. Ley insisted her leadership was safe on Monday after reuniting the Coalition after a 17-day split with the Nationals. 'My team elected me and I lead a team with determination and focus. I'm up for the job,' she told Sky News. Moderate figures remain largely behind Ley despite the party's polling slipping under her leadership, and argue another round of instability would only accelerate the slide toward irrelevance. However, Ley's critics argue the party's position is so dire, any change would be better than the status quo. Sussan Ley (pictured) insisted her leadership was safe on Monday after reuniting the Coalition after a 17-day split with the Nationals Rumours are swirling shadow defence minister Angus Taylor (pictured) is preparing to launch a spill against Opposition Leader Sussan Ley Skeptics caution that Taylor may not be the saviour some imagine, and dumping the first woman to lead the Liberal Party could spark a backlash far worse than the current internal unrest. Taylor's critics have also said he may not 'stick the landing' if he takes the leadership, and could further erode female support for the party. On Friday, Taylor has acknowledged his leadership ambitions but claimed he had no plan to depose Ms Ley. 'I'm not going to say to you and your listeners that I don't have and haven't had leadership ambitions. I clearly have had,' he told 2GB. 'That's why I ran for the leadership last time Ambition is a good thing. 'But most of all, what we all want is a better Liberal Party and a better Coalition. We need that fast.' Some moderate MPs believe Ley should be given more time, potentially even a budget reply speech, to see whether she can stabilise the party. Senior shadow ministers Tim Wilson, Andrew Wallace and Alex Hawke have expressed support for Ley. Senior Liberal MP Andrew Hastie (pictured) pulled out of the Liberal leadership race However Liberal Senator Jane Hume publicly questioned Ley's leadership on Monday, saying the Liberal Party had been led astray. 'This is disastrous for the Liberal Party. It's disastrous for the Coalition. Unless something changes, we will be wiped out,' Ms Hume told Sky News. 'I've been looking at the numbers and I don't think that at this point there will be a single member of the House of Representatives from Victoria. 'There won't be a single member of the House of Representatives from New South Wales. Something has to give.' Monday's Newspoll shows the Opposition is struggling on its right flank, as support for Pauline Hanson's One Nation continues to surge, threatening the major party status of the Liberal Party. The latest Newspoll has the Coalition's primary vote sinking to a record low of just 18 per cent. Meanwhile. One Nation's primary vote, which hit a record high of 22 per cent last month, is now at 27 per cent, a full nine points above the combined vote of the Liberal and Nationals parties. The Daily Mail contacted a number of Liberal and Nationals MPs for comment in the wake of the disastrous opinion poll but none were prepared to go on the record with their scathing comments. Pauline Hanson's (pictured) One Nation primary vote, which hit a record high of 22 per cent last month, is now at 27 per cent, a full nine points above the combined vote of the Coalition The MPs the Daily Mail Australia spoke to unanimously agreed Ley's leadership is finished. 'Sussan needs to go now, things can't get any worse under someone else', one Liberal MP claims. 'I really don't care who it is anymore, as long as it's not her. That's the circuit breaker we need.' Another moderate Liberal MP disagrees: 'Sussan needs to step down willingly, but she's not there yet and certainly not for Angus.' 'Angus isn't the answer, we need a fresh start' a third Liberal MP tells Daily Mail. Terrifying footage has captured the moment a road rage attack unfolded on a busy Melbourne road after an elderly driver was targeted by two strangers. The alarming incident took place on Mickleham Road in Tullamarine on Thursday and was captured on a witness's dashcam. In the video, which was shared with 3AW by a woman using the name 'Adrianna', a silver sedan could be seen reversing a few centimetres to allow a car to pull in front. However, the move brought the sedan closer to a truck. The truck driver and passenger hopped out of their vehicle and approached the car. The pair hit the driver, whose legs appeared to flail in distress. They then turned around and returned to their truck. 'I thought they were going to get down and ask him a question, or at least check their vehicle... but it just went from zero to 100,' Adrianna said. A man was allegedly assaulted in the middle of Mickleham Road in Tullamarine on Thursday after he reversed slowly towards a truck The alleged incident was caught on a witness' dashcam 'They got out of their car and just went straight into physical abuse. 'The poor thing thought he was doing the right thing by reversing to let the car in front of him in. 'We all got on to the police right away. The light turned green, so a lot of us had to keep moving, but it was awful to watch.' Adrianna claimed the car did not even hit the truck. Victoria Police told the Daily Mail a passerby had made contact about a possible incident. Officers then made several enquiries about it over the weekend, but it does not seem the attack was reported. The ABC has been put on notice by Australia's top intelligence agency ahead of tonight's Four Corners investigation into the Bondi terrorist attack. The 'Bondi: Path to Terror' episode is the second-part of the national broadcaster's investigation into the December 14 massacre, when Naveed Akram and his father Sajid allegedly killed 15 people and injured dozens more in Australia's worst ever terrorist attack. In a trailer released last week, the ABC said the episode will examine the gunmen's histories and their associations with an Islamic State terrorist network in Australia. '[Reporter Sean] Rubinsztein-Dunlop tracks their movements and preparations in the lead-up to the attack and asks what Australian authorities knew about them and when,' the promo added. He could also be seen in the trailer asking a person behind the camera, 'So have Australians been told the real story about what happened?' However, just hours before the episode aired, ASIO accused the ABC of relying on uncorroborated claims from a 'single, unreliable and disgruntled source' and warned the broadcaster it may take further action. 'Four Corners claims contain significant errors of fact,' ASIO said in a rare, preemptive statement on Sunday. 'The ABCs source mis-identified Naveed Akram. That is, the source claimed Naveed Akram said and did things that were actually said and done by an entirely different person. This source also has a track record of making statements that are untrue.' The national broadcaster is facing fresh scrutiny by Australia's intelligence agency, ASIO ABC reporter Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop tracked the Akram's movements and preparations in the lead-up to the alleged attack ASIO said court proceedings and the Royal Commission into Antisemitism 'constrained' them in their 'ability to respond to specific questions' (pictured ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess) The statement went on: 'Tragically, ASIO did not know what the perpetrators of the Bondi attack were planning or indeed that they were planning anything. 'This is a matter of grave regret. It weighs on us heavily. But that does not mean additional resourcing would have prevented the attack or there was intelligence that was not acted on or that our officers made mistakes.' ASIO also made a point criticising experienced national security correspondent Mr Rubinsztein-Dunlop's previous work about ASIO. ASIO did not specify what precisely it was talking about. 'Given the errors in Four Corners questions, and noting the journalist has previously broadcast false claims about ASIO and the Akrams, we hold grave concerns about the accuracy of the proposed story,' they said. 'If the ABC chooses to publish claims it cannot substantiate particularly ones it has been told are untrue we will reserve our right to take further action.' The ABC issued a defiant statement in response and confirmed ASIO hadn't seen the program, but had rather made a series of assumptions based on the questions put to them. 'Four Corners spoke to numerous people and provides a number of sources of information for a detailed picture of the Akrams actions and associations in the years leading up to the Bondi attack,' an ABC spokesperson said. 'Detailed questions were put to ASIO and its response is reflected in the story. The public will be able to watch the full investigation tonight.' Federal authorities shared a disheartening message Monday night as a second deadline to pay a ransom for Nancy Guthrie's safe return expired. Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother was abducted from her $1 million Tucson, Arizona, home in the early hours of February 1, with officials confirming they have not identified any suspects in the ongoing case. As the hunt for Nancy enters its second week, the final ransom deadline for the Today show host's mother was at 5pm local time, by which time the alleged kidnappers wanted $6 million in Bitcoin, local news station KGUN reported. Guthrie had said over the weekend she would pay the ransom in exchange for her mother's safe return, but officials confirmed Monday night that no payments were made. The FBI then announced that it still has not identified any suspects or persons of interest in the case as it investigates the ransom notes that were sent to local television stations as well as TMZ. In the meantime, the Pima County Sheriff's Office has said it is looking into 'new leads' and will continue to search for evidence at the family's homes. Still, both federal and local officials are pleading with the public for any information related to Nancy's disappearance - and on Monday, Guthrie released another video pleading with the American people for their help to find her mom. 'We are at an hour of desperation, and we need your help,' she said. A former Jetstar employee has been sentenced to jail but released on a court order after he was found with dozens of files of child abuse material that he told police were 'fun to have'. Chanthakone Nouanphanthakoun, who also goes by the first name Jackson, was arrested in December 2024 by Australian Border Force (ABF) after flying home to Australia from Thailand. At the time of his arrest, the 25-year-old was working as a customer service agent for airport ground service provider Swissport in Victoria, according to social media. Before then, he had worked for more than 18 months as a flight attendant for the airline Rex [Regional Express] and, before that, as a customer service agent for Jetstar for two months. County Court heard on Monday that Nouanphanthakoun handed airport security his phone after landing at an Australian airport when asked if he had any items in his pocket, The Herald Sun reported. The phone had 111 files of child abuse material stored in his iCloud and messages, including a 'vault' mobile application with a folder named 'kids', the court was told. He was also charged with sending, in April 2021, a video showing two children aged between five and eight engaging in sexual activity, the court heard. While interviewed by police, Nouanphanthakoun said many images had been auto-saved from a WhatsApp group that he said he had left by the time of his arrest, the court was told. Chanthakone Nouanphanthakoun, who also goes by the first name Jackson, was sentenced to 10 months in jail for child abuse material charges He will not serve time behind bars as he was released from custody on a recognisance order which requires him to be of good behaviour for three years Nouanphanthakoun told officers he 'deleted' a significant part of the material but kept some because he 'thought it'd be fun to have', the court heard. On Monday, Judge Anthony Lewis sentenced him to 10 months in jail on child abuse material charges. He will not serve time behind bars as he was released from custody on a recognisance order which requires him to be of good behaviour for three years. The court was told Nouanphanthakoun had potential for rehabilitation and showed remorse for his offending. 'The trade and engagement of child abuse material supports an industry founded on the exploitation of children incapable of protecting themselves,' Judge Lewis said. 'The harm is both immediate and long lasting as their images will likely remain accessible indefinitely.' The court heard that the former Jetstar employee's offences were 'lacking sophistication' and were considered on the 'lower end' of child abuse material-related cases. Judge Lewis said Nouanphanthakoun's 'immaturity' during the period of offending 'likely contributed'. The Daily Mail has contacted Nouanphanthakoun for comment. Swissport and Jetstar declined to comment. Rex confirmed Nouanphanthakoun had ceased employment with the company in July 2024. The Albanese Government has introduced a 10 per cent tariff on steel ceiling frames imported from China after an investigation found imports were threatening local manufacturers. The Anti-Dumping Commission oversees products being 'dumped' into the Australian market, meaning they're cheaper to import than buy domestically. The move follows China's punitive trade sanctions against Australian products such as beef, barley and wine between 2020 and 2024 following calls for an inquiry into the origins of the Covid pandemic. The Australian Steel Institute late last year claimed cheap imports, particularly from China, had reached 700,000 tonnes per year and were threatening to destroy domestic steel manufacturers. It applied for emergency trade protections and asked for a 50 per cent tariff on imports of steel over 450,000 tonnes. The commission then set its sights on steel ceiling frames with a height of up to 45mm, a width up to 60mm and a base metal thickness of up to 0.65mm. A spokesperson for Industry Minister Tim Ayres on Monday said the government 'supports free and fair trade' because the country's 'prosperity is linked to open and rules-based trade'. 'When trade is not fair, the government will stand up for Australian farmers, manufacturers and workers,' they said. 'This includes applying measures at the border to address unfair imports. The Albanese Government has introduced a 10 per cent tariff on steel ceiling frames imported from China (pictured is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) The Australian Steel Institute asked for government intervention after struggling to keep up with competitive imported steel prices Chinese steel ceiling frames (pictured) are subject to the 10 per cent import tariff 'Decisions about whether to impose anti-dumping measures are based on industry applications to the Anti-Dumping Commission.' The move, however, could be seen as a slap in the face to Chinese officials who are already being subject to a series of temporary steel tariffs from Australia, ranging from 35 to 113 per cent. Fan Xi, an official at Beijing's Trade Remedy and Investigation Bureau, last month warned the tariffs could have a negative effect on Australia's iron ore exports. 'We call for avoiding the misuse of trade remedy measures and ensuring the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese exporting enterprises are safeguarded in a fair, just and non-discriminatory manner,' he wrote in response to a complaint made by BlueScope Steel submitted to ASI. Fan noted one of the other specific Chinese products subject to tariffs by Australia - hot-rolled steel coil - was often made using Australian iron. 'We urge the committee to respect facts and rules, correct its improper approaches, refrain from negatively impacting the stable and healthy co-operation between the industries of both countries and earnestly adhere to multilateral trade rules,' Fan wrote. The Albanese Government has also ordered the Productivity Commission to investigate allegations of steel dumping. It is set to publish its final report in November. Chinese authorities have repeatedly called for Australia to be 'fair' in its steel trade rules, hinting Australia's own iron ore industry could suffer (pictured is Chinese President Xi Jinping) Daily Mail has contacted Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian for comment. Late last month, Xiao urged Australian officials to remember its former trade agreements for steel were 'mutually beneficial'. 'We are both members of the World Trade Organisation,' he told reporters. 'Should we conduct any trade remedy practice, it's important to follow exactly the WTO rules and should be in accordance with the spirit of the China-Australia agreement. 'We are concerned about excessive use of trade remedies.' Just last month, China announced all beef imports exceeding new quota limits would be subject to a 55 per cent tariff. Officials said the move was to protect domestic Chinese beef producers and was not a targeted attack on one country though it massively affected its biggest importers - including Australia, Brazil and the US. China is Australia's second-largest beef export market. China is facing a major political backlash today after British media pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai was handed 20 years in prison following a 'sham trial' in a Hong Kong court. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper demanded communist authorities to end the 'appalling ordeal' faced by the 78-year-old critic of the Beijing regime, and his sentence prompted the government to expand visa access in Hong Kong. Mr Lai was convicted of foreign collusion and sedition under a controversial national security law imposed by Beijing. His is the harshest punishment yet under the sweeping legislation and has been condemned as 'effectively a death sentence' by rights groups. The move by China is embarrassing for Sir Keir Starmer's government, coming little more than a week after he visited Beijing and discussed Mr Lai's case. A week ago Sir Keir told MPs he had 'raised the case of Jimmy Lai' in talks with president Xi Jinping. In a statement posted on X by the Foreign Office, Ms Cooper described the prosecution as politically motivated and said Mr Lai had been 'exercising his right to freedom of expression'. But shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel said: The Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Government should be ashamed of themselves for not securing the release of Jimmy. British media tycoon and pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai has been jailed by a Hong Kong court for 20 years The move by China is embarrassing for Sir Keir Starmer's government, coming little more than a week after he visited Beijing and discussed Mr Lai's case. 'Spineless Starmer gave the Chinese Communist Party their super embassy spy hub and then went to Beijing to kowtow to President Xi begging for Chinese investment. 'While Starmer came back to Britain bragging about securing a deal for Labubu dolls, Jimmy languishes in prison. Starmers failure to stand up to Chinese threats has undermined our interests and our security and he now has no leverage to pressure the Chinese to release Jimmy.' Downing Street rejected suggestions that engagement with China had failed in light of the sentence, arguing it meant there was a 'stronger chance of securing a positive outcome' for him as opposed to 'just talking into a void'. The government today also made visas available to thousands more people in Hong Kong. Adult children of British nationals over there, who were under 18 at the time of Hong Kong's 1997 handover to China, will now be eligible to apply for the route independently of their parents, the Home Office said. Their partners and children will also be able to move to the UK under the expanded route. Ministers estimated around 26,000 additional people would arrive in the UK because of the change over the next five years. Mr Lai, who holds a British passport, founded the now-defunct, pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper. He incurred the wrath of the state by often using his publication as a tool of protest, but he always denied the charges against him. Campaigners have described Mr Lai's punishment as 'effectively a death sentence' Six former executives of the paper were also jailed today - with sentences between six years and nine months and 10 years. Lai's barrister had said he suffers from hypertension and diabetes, among other ailments, but the court said it was 'not inclined' to soften the sentence on account of his medical condition. Ms Cooper said: 'Beijing's National Security Law was imposed on Hong Kong to silence China's critics,' she said. 'For the 78-year-old, this is tantamount to a life sentence. 'I remain deeply concerned for Mr Lai's health, and I again call on the Hong Kong authorities to end his appalling ordeal and release him on humanitarian grounds, so that he may be reunited with his family.' The leader of Lai's international legal team, Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC, told the BBC that it had been a 'show trial from the start - the script is already written'. Mr Lai's international legal team was forbidden from defending him in court. After the sentencing, Gallagher said: 'Sentencing Jimmy Lai already aged 78 to two decades behind bars is an affront to justice, and the culmination of over five years of malicious lawfare against a courageous, elderly British citizen and prisoner of conscience. 'Now that this sham trial is finally over, we call on leaders from around the world to speak with one voice in their demand for China to free Jimmy Lai so he can come home to his family in London at last.' Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, hailed the sentencing as 'deeply gratifying', and described his crimes as 'heinous' and 'utterly despicable'. Lee wrote in a Facebook post: 'For a long time, Lai used Apple Daily to poison the minds of citizens, incite hatred, distort facts, deliberately create social division, glorify violence, and openly beg external forces to sanction China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.' The head of Hong Kong police's National Security Department also defended Lai's 20-year sentence as 'appropriate'. A pro-Palestinian campaigner who celebrated October 7 as a 'homecoming' and has protested against 'Jewish supremacy' was dramatically arrested ahead of an anti-zionist group launch in Birmingham. Latifa Abouchakra, who works as a reporter for Iranian state channel Press TV, had been due to speak at the launch of the Anti-Zionist Movement (AZM), alongside former academic David Miller and suspended NHS doctor Rahmeh Aladwan. But the 35-year-old was arrested in nearby Kings Heath at around 2.30pm, just 90 minutes before the start of the event. West Midlands Police said officers stopped a car she was travelling in. In a statement the force said a 35-year-old woman was detained on suspicion of inciting racial hatred. 'She was wanted by the Metropolitan Police on suspicion of a Public Order Act offence, as part of an investigation by the London force into speeches and social media posts made between May and October last year in the capital and Birmingham,' the statement said. She remains in custody. Abouchakra was one of a panel of speakers invited to appear at the inaugural meeting of the AZM, which declared in an advert that it was 'unapologetically pro Armed Resistance.' Latifa Abouchakra was arrested ahead of an anti-zionist group launch in Birmingham Abouchakra was due to speak at the Anti-Zionist Movement's second event in Birmingham before her arrest The event was originally due to be held at The Old Print Works in the Balsall Heath area of Birmingham on Sunday afternoon. But the venue cancelled the booking last week following widespread outcry after an advert described it as 'a Palestinian-led grassroots movement that's unapologetically anti-zionist [sic], Pro Armed Resistance and campaigns against Jewish Supremacy.' The group said it also 'upholds' the Thawabit, the founding principles of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, the political group governing the Palestinian territories, which includes the statement: 'Armed struggle is the only way to liberate Palestine. This is the overall strategy, not merely a tactical phase.' Organisers vowed the meeting would still take place and only revealed details of the new venue to ticket holders two hours before it began. There was a large police presence outside the new venue, Al Andalus Hall, just two doors down from The Old Print Works. Organisers erected a Palestinian flag with the words 'Viva Palestina' outside the door to the hall, located above a Yemeni restaurant. Masked security guards only let attendees enter if they had a ticket and showed identification. Police officers filmed those entering the venue and also challenged two counter-protesters standing outside. Abouchakra works as a reporter for Iranian state channel Press TV Among the attendees was controversial 'TikTok lawyer' Akhmed Yakoob, who is awaiting trial on money laundering charges. Yakoob is behind the Independent Candidate Alliance, which is backing convicted terrorist Shahid Butt, 60, as a candidate in the upcoming Birmingham City Council elections. A member of Yakoob's entourage shouted 'Zionists are terrorists' at waiting media as he entered the hall. It is understood prominent speakers were able to access the venue through a side door to avoid the cameras. One attendee, who did not want to be named, claimed the discussions inside revolved around 'Zionists, including Jeffrey Epstein.' The panellists due to feature on Sunday included Abouchakra, who has described herself online as 'a 35-year-old Palestinian refugee' and previously appeared on Palestine Declassified, a programme on the Iranian State-owned news network Press TV. In a segment following the events of October 7, 2023, she described the hostages taken by Hamas as 'settlers' and 'prisoners of war'. Abouchakra also descried the terrorist attack as 'the homecoming of at least 1,000 Palestinians from the resistance factions into the fragile Zionist entity.' Solicitor Akhmed Yakoob, who is awaiting trial on money laundering charges, was an attendee of the event Last year The Board of Deputies of British Jews branded an ITV News interview with her as a 'catastrophically bad decision'. She had been referred to by ITV as a 'British Palestinian living in London' during an interview about the rise of Islamophobia in Britain, without any acknowledgment of her links to the Iranian state broadcaster. Press TV had its licence revoked by Ofcom more than ten years ago because of its breach of broadcasting rules. The panel also included NHS medic Dr Aladwan, who has been suspended from practice over alleged support for Hamas, which is proscribed in the UK, as well as making antisemitic comments. She has been arrested four times since October on suspicious of malicious communication and for inciting racial hatred. Dr Aladwan is also the subject of an investigation by the General Medical Council. Her social media posts have referred to Israelis as 'worse than Nazis' and Britain's Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis as 'Rabbi Genocide'. She also claimed the wide media attention following the Manchester synagogue attack, in which two men died and others were injured, was an example of 'Jewish supremacism'. Just hours before her fourth arrest, Dr Aladwan referred to a female Palestinian suicide bomber and her son, who grew up to become a Hamas October 7 terrorist, as 'martyrs'. The British-Palestinian doctor appeared at her medical tribunal wearing a necklace with a gold number seven charm, and a second charm inlaid with green tourmaline - the birthstone for October. She has previously shared photographs of the charms online, describing them as 'celebratory jewellery'. David Miller, 60, was sacked by the University of Bristol in 2021 for alleged anti-Semitism Dr Aladwan has defended the AZM's Instagram post, saying: 'There is nothing unlawful about being unapologetically pro-armed resistance.' The panel also included Professor David Miller, who was sacked by the University of Bristol in 2021 for alleged anti-Semitism. Jewish students had complained he made them feel 'uncomfortable and intimidated' with a series of remarks he made while in post as a sociology lecturer. The first was made in 2019 after he gave a lecture describing the 'Zionist movement' as one of the 'five pillars of Islamophobia'. On the Electronic Intifada website, he also wrote: 'There is a real question of abuse here, of Jewish students on British campuses being used as political pawns by a violent, racist foreign regime engaged in ethnic cleansing.' Academic Mr Miller was sacked by the University of Bristol in 2021 over alleged antisemitic views. An employment tribunal later found that he was unfairly dismissed. Last night, West Midlands Police confirmed a second arrest was made at the event. A 42-year-old man was detained after a member of the public observing the event claimed he had been threatened. An investigation has also been launched into a social media post which had been used to advertise the event. 'Before and during today's operation, we listened to and updated key stakeholders, including members of the local Jewish community,' the police statement added. Syria's former president Bashar al-Assad is said to have been obsessed with sex and had a lover who set him up with the wives of his high-ranking officials. Behind the palace walls in Damascus, a portrait of the dictator has emerged - one of a distracted, vain leader more consumed by sexual intrigue and smartphone games than saving his collapsing regime. He also sidelined experienced powerbrokers from his father's era, replacing them with younger confidants of questionable competence. Among them was Luna al-Shibl, a former Al Jazeera journalist who became one of his closest advisers, and according to multiple sources, his lover. Shibl was said to have procured other women for Assad, including the wives of senior Syrian officers, while helping shape the insular, contemptuous court culture that alienated ordinary Syrians. Then came her mysterious death. In July 2024, she was found dead in her BMW on a highway outside Damascus. State media claimed it was a traffic accident, but the details were strange - the car was barely damaged, yet her skull had been smashed. Rumours swirled that Iran had ordered her killing for allegedly leaking targeting data to Israel. Others tell a darker story - that Assad himself ordered her death after she began feeding intelligence to Russia and hedging her bets as his power waned. Bahsar al-Assad ruled Syria for 24 years, but his regime was toppled in December 2024 Luna al-Shibl was said to have procured other women for Assad, including the wives of senior Syrian officers The truth remains murky, buried in the opaque world of Syrian and Russian intelligence. Dozens of former courtiers and officers have also described Assad as obsessed with video games, particularly Candy Crush, while Syria crumbled around him. According to one former Hezbollah operative, Assad would spend hours glued to his phone, retreating into games rather than confronting spiralling military and political crises. While Syria convulsed after Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, Assad remained largely silent - even as Israel launched strikes across Syria and Lebanon, killing key allies, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. According to Lebanese politician Wiam Wahhab, Assad's silence fuelled suspicions in Tehran that he was secretly feeding information to Israel, deepening fractures within the so-called Axis of Resistance. When rebels began advancing on Aleppo on November 27, Assad was in Russia, where his son was scheduled to defend his doctoral dissertation. As Aleppos defenses collapsed, Assad remained in Moscow, to the astonishment of his commanders at home. He appeared to hope that Putin would save him, but when the Russian president met him briefly, he made clear that Russia could not fight the war on his behalf. By the time Assad finally landed in Damascus, Aleppo had already fallen. The atmosphere inside the palace was reportedly one of decadence and denial rather than urgency. Even as foreign ministers phoned with offers to stabilise his rule, Assad refused to answer, reportedly sulking at the suggestion he might have to compromise or share power. But as rebel fighters advanced in Damascus on December 7, Assad was still projecting confidence. According to those inside the regime, he reassured aides that victory was imminent. That same evening, an official statement insisted he was at the palace carrying out his 'constitutional duties'. In reality, the Syrian strongman was already gone. Under the cover of darkness, Assad slipped onto a Russian jet and fled the country, telling almost no one. According to The Atlantic, Assad had emerged from his private quarters in the dead of night and told his longtime driver that he would need vans. He gave orders for the staff to quickly pack up their belongings as a group of Russians waited outside his residence. Under the impression that he would be fleeing war-torn Syria alongside his long-time employer, the middle-aged driver allegedly asked Assad if he was really leaving them behind. Staff were told there was no space in the vehicles to take them along as they fled the country. Looking back at the driver, Assad asked him: ''What about you people? Aren't you going to fight?'. The exiled president then turned and went out into the night, leaving behind long-time allies and workers with the expectation that they would lay down their lives in the name of loyalty to him. Some of Assad's closest loyalists only realised the truth when celebratory gunfire erupted across the capital, and militias surged forward. Left behind, senior officials scrambled to escape as the state they had served evaporated overnight. The betrayal stunned even hardened regime insiders. Loyalty curdled into fury, with former supporters suddenly claiming they had always despised him. Yet the collapse was not merely the result of geopolitics, as many analysts initially suggested. Images of Assad wearing Speedos generated ridicule on social media following the fall of his regime One picture shows Assad in nothing but white pants and a vest, clearly posing for the camera Bashar Al Assad and his wife Asma arrive for a dinner hosted for the Heads of Delegation, their spouses, and Ministers at the Petit Palais, after attending Paris' Union for the Mediterranean founding summit in Paris, France on July 13, 2008 While Russia was tied down in Ukraine and Iran was distracted by Israel, a more sordid explanation has surfaced from palace insiders. Assad simply stopped caring. The deposed ruler, branded the 'Butcher' for killing his own people, is now said to live in three apartments in a luxury 1000ft tower with a mall downstairs in Moscow City district, a glittering business centre in the heart of the Russian capital. The skyscraper penthouse is 'lavishly decorated - cream-coloured wardrobes with gold trim, crystal chandeliers, and wide sofas reminiscent of Middle Eastern palaces'. The ostentatious complex, where his family owns around 20 apartments worth more than 30million across three floors, is attached to a shopping mall, which he sometimes visits. The brutal dictator fled to Russia after a lightning offensive led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in December brought to an end a 13-year civil war and six decades of the Assad family's autocratic rule. He now lives with his cancer-stricken British wife, Asma Al-Assad, sons Hafez and Karim, aged 24 and 21, and 22-year-old daughter Zein. Asma, who was born in London and married into the brutal autocratic dynasty in 2000, is described as being in a 'serious' condition from her leukaemia. She has become accustomed to a life of luxury, with reports that she spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on home furnishings and clothes during her husband's reign of terror. Their plush Moscow pad provides similar opulence, with a 20 metre high lobby flooded with light and decorated with modern art. There are sofas, partitions, and a welcome drink for visitors. They have a huge heated bath in front of a 13ft window in a 990ft skyscraper, which enjoys one of the finest views in Moscow. The bathroom is made entirely of Carrara marble. 'On Victory Day on May 9, you can watch the fireworks from the bathtub with a glass of champagne,' Natasha, who sells penthouses in the same tower in the Moscow City district, told De Zeit last year. The Assads 'are in a good place and are enjoying the money they stole. The Syrian people mean nothing to them,' the German newspaper, citing Syrian sources, reported at the time. Assad is said to be able to move freely around Moscow but spends hours playing online video games and also often stays in his country villa outside of the Russian capital. He has been provided with bodyguards from a private security firm paid by the Russian government. Assad's younger brother, Maher, reportedly stays at the Four Seasons Hotel in Moscow and spends his time drinking and smoking hookah. His son, Hafez, 23, who studied in Moscow, previously told of the family's escape from Damascus after Putin's military pulled them just before they were engulfed by the revolution. He admitted the downfall of the regime had come as a shock. Exiled Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad reportedly spends his days playing video games in his luxury Moscow flat 'There was never a plan - not even a backup - to leave Damascus, let alone Syria,' he admitted in a video, now deleted. 'After consulting with Moscow, base command informed us that our transfer to Russia had been requested. 'Some time later, we boarded a Russian military plane bound for Moscow, where we landed that same night.' Assad remains a wanted man by the new government in Syria, which issued an arrest warrant on charges of premeditated murder, torture, and incitement to civil war. A friend of his family told the Guardian in December: 'He's studying Russian and brushing up on his ophthalmology again. 'It's a passion of his, he obviously doesn't need the money. Even before the war in Syria began, he used to regularly practise his ophthalmology in Damascus'. He trained in ophthalmology in London in the early 1990s, but was recalled back to his home nation following the unexpected death of his brother in a car crash in 1994. Shortly after, he entered a military academy and took over as the heir apparent to the regime. The friend said he now lives 'a very quiet life', adding: 'He has very little, if any, contact with the outside world. He's only in touch with a couple of people who were in his palace, like Mansour Azzam [former Syrian minister of presidency affairs] and Yassar Ibrahim [Assad's top economic crony].' The late Coronation Street legend Philip Lowrie left his fortune to charity, his agent and his friends, new documents have revealed. The actor played Dennis Tanner in the long-running ITV soap from its inception in 1960 until 1968 and again from 2011 until 2014. He was just 24 years old when he made his debut as the charismatic rebel on the programme and went on to become a firm staple on the show. When he died in April 2025 at the age of 88, High Court papers show he had a fortune of 797,114 in his estate, which was reduced to 790,022 after deductions. And he left the bulk of it to acting charity the Actors' Benevolent Fund. Mario Renzullo, also executor of the will, was left the most. He was gifted 10,000 and Mr Lowrie's share of a property in Putney, plus all Mr Lowrie's furniture and possessions. The actor left several bequests of 2,000 or 1,000 to other friends, cousins and a goddaughter. The late Coronation Street legend Philip Lowrie has left his fortune to charity, his agent and his friends new documents have revealed. Pictured in 2012 He was just 24 years old when he made his debut as the charismatic rebel on the programme and went on to become a firm staple on the show At the time of his death Mr Renzullo said: 'My client and very dear friend, Philip Lowrie, the beloved actor renowned for his role as Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street, passed away yesterday at 88. 'His death marks the end of an era for the world's longest-running soap, where he became a cornerstone of its storytelling.' Mr Lowrie's character Dennis was the son of Pat Phoenix's character Elsie Tanner and entered the scene as a teenage tearaway who had just been released from prison for petty theft. After moving to Weatherfield with his mother, Dennis was the love interest of Rita Sullivan, played by Barbara Knox, and became her third husband upon his return to the show in 2011. He briefly departed the programme in 1962 due to complications following a writers' strike but returned for six more years before his exit in 1968. However, Mr Lowrie delighted longtime fans when he returned to the soap opera after a staggering 43-year absence. The actor played Dennis Tanner in the long-running ITV soap from its inception in 1960 until 1968 and again from 2011 until 2014 Mr Lowrie (pictured in 2012) left the bulk of his fortune to acting charity the Actors' Benevolent Fund his will signed in 2017 showed Mr Lowrie was also close friends with actress and comedian Su Pollard (both pictured), best known for her role in sitcom Hi-de-Hi! Away from Coronation Street, Philip (pictured in 1960) was also an esteemed stage actor and made his West End debut in Farewell, Farewell Eugene After his long gap away from Weatherfield, Mr Lowrie was awarded Guinness World Record for the longest gap between TV appearances as the same character on one show. Creator Tony Warren said of the character: 'In those streets there is always a bad 'un, a wrong 'un. And he was the wrong 'un.' During this period, he recorded a pop single, 'I Might Have Known', which was issued by Ember in September 1963. Despite being recorded at the prestigious Abbey Road Studios and produced by John Barry, the record was not a hit. His character was ultimately killed off screen years after his exit as part of the soap's 10,000th episode storyline in 2020. Away from Coronation Street, Mr Lowrie was also an esteemed stage actor and made his West End debut in Farewell, Farewell Eugene. The Lancashire-born star, who trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, also appeared as Major Metcalf in The Mousetrap. He additionally took on the role of Klever in The Case Of The Frightened Lady in another major stage success. Mr Lowrie also appeared in other soap operas including Doctors and Casualty and also played Mr Lakin in ITV's 2015 series Home Fires. A Harley Street plastic surgeon is at war with neighbours over plans to modernise his 1.5m Lake District cottage. Dr Jag Chana, who runs one of London's leading plastic surgery clinics, wanted to turn the property on the shores of Derwentwater into his family's 'forever home', but his proposals were roundly rebuked. The historic white-washed Brandlehow Cottage near Keswick, which dates back as far as the 16th century, sits in the shadow of the towering Catbells fells, and is on one of Britain's most treasured walking routes. Dr Chana wanted to replace single-stored wing with a two-storey steel and glass extension, but was forced to pull the plans at the eleventh hour amid a significant backlash. The latest proposal came after he previously applied to demolish the building and replace it with a low-carbon home. Locals objected to the new glass-fronted design, which would open up sweeping views over the beauty spot, and also feared for the future the beloved lakeside attraction 'Teddy in the Window', which resides in the cottage's wooden outbuilding. Planning bosses recommended the scheme be refused, warning of damage to the character of the lakeside, which lies within the English Lake District World Heritage Site. Borrowdale Parish Council also objected, branding the proposals 'wholly inappropriate for such a sensitive lakeside site'. Dr Jag Chana, who runs one of London's leading plastic surgery clinics, wanted to modernise the house with a large glass front He submitted plans to revamp the cottage after an earlier application to demolish the home was rejected Dr Jag Chana wants to turn the cottage into his family's 'forever home', but withdrew his plans in the face of potent local opposition It said: 'The submitted visuals show extensive areas of glass dominating the lake-facing elevation,' and echoed concerns for Teddy in the Window. The weathered soft toy sits in a small shed by the lakeshore path around Derwentwater, and has been a cherished landmark for walkers since the 1980s - attracting cards and messages from around the world. The woman who has maintained the shed and teddy for decades said the outpouring of feeling during the planning row was 'heartwarming'. She said: 'It was my mum who found the teddy and put it in the window, thinking the owners might come back for it - but they never did. 'People started sending Christmas cards in the 1980s and we just put them all up in the shed. 'We were getting letters from as far away as South America and New Zealand.' She was among the objectors to the plans, explaining: 'There was a lot of glass on the frontage - it wouldn't look like the historic cottage that it is. 'When the plans were withdrawn, it was a relief. But I'm waiting to see what they do next.' Dr Chana withdrew the plans after a significant backlash from locals and the council The house's wooden garage is home to 'Teddy in the Window' - a popular local landmark among walkers The cottage sits overlooking Derwentwater, in the shadow of the towering Catbells fells Eddie Wren, a 28th-generation Lakelander, said: 'I am a lot more than weary of people moving into the Lake District and then completely ignoring the culture and history of the area when altering their newly acquired homes into something alien to the place they wish to be.' Campaign group Friends of the Lake District also objected, backing the parish council's stance. Lorayne Wall, head of planning and policy at the charity, said the application raised 'so many concerns'. She said: 'When you compare it to a traditional property, it would have been very different - there was very heavy glazing. There's nothing really wrong with the building as it currently is. 'The applicant has withdrawn the plans now - it could be that they knew it was going to be refused.' She said that the row highlighted a wider issue across the national park, adding: 'You can't refuse planning permission because someone is coming up from London - but it is something we're seeing more. 'Second homes - which could be permanent dwellings - mean communities are being hollowed out. 'Heritage is being lost because properties are either not being lived in.' Planners said they received 'significant representations both objecting to and supporting the proposals'. The property was bought by Dr Jag Chana and his wife Kate, who told planners they hoped to create a 'forever home' for their family after visiting the Lake District for 20 years. An earlier application to demolish the cottage and replace it with a low-carbon home was rejected in May 2023. The four-bed, two-storey detached house - complete with its own jetty - first went on the market in summer 2021 for the first time in around 30 years, with an asking price of 1.5million. Dr Chana was approached for comment. Keir Starmer faces another huge blow today as he begs for more time in No10 after suffering two major resignations. In a potentially explosive development, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has convened a press conference for 2.30pm. He is set to call for the PM to go over the Mandelson scandal, having already told him to stay away from Scotland because he is politically toxic. Welsh First Minister Baroness Morgan is widely expected to echo his views. Even loyalist MPs acknowledged that the intervention is likely to be terminal for Sir Keir, with the Cabinet maintaining an extraordinary wall of silence about his woes. Sir Keir told his remaining Downing Street staff this morning that he was determined to 'go forward' after comms chief Tim Allan said he was 'standing down to allow a new No10 team to be built'. The former Tony Blair adviser had only been in the post since September. He had pledged to help Sir Keir 'turn the corner' with a reset but senior Labour sources accused him of being 'completely useless' and 'embarrassing'. The announcement followed the departure of chief of staff Morgan McSweeney yesterday over the appointment of Mandelson as US ambassador. The PM - who has now lost four communications directors in just 18 months - is holed up in Downing Street with no plans for any public engagements today. Trying to quell speculation Sir Keir could simply walk away from his premiership, the PM's spokesman insisted he is 'upbeat and confident' and 'concentrating on the job in hand'. As UK politics plunges into turmoil again today: The interest rate on 10-year gilts - a main way the government borrows money - was up nearly four basis points as investors fear chaos; Cabinet Secretary Chris Wormald and national security adviser Jonathan Powell remain under intense pressure over the Mandelson appointment; Police have yet to sign off release of documents about Mandelson's vetting process, to the frustration of Downing Street; Sir Keir is scrambling for a new chief of staff after McSweeney's exit, with claims his biographer Tom Baldwin has been angling for the job. Keir Starmer is holed up in Downing Street after the storm over the peer's appointment as US ambassador claimed the scalp of Morgan McSweeney (pictured together) Yvette Cooper and Darren Jones were both pictured in Downing Street today - but have said nothing about the PM's plight Bizarrely a British Airways flight simulator had been installed outside No10 this morning, sparking jokes about whether Sir Keir was planning a getaway No10 revealed that Sir Keir told staff: 'We must prove that politics can be a force for good. I believe it can. I believe it is. We go forward from here. We go with confidence as we continue changing the country.' MPs are warning Sir Keir he must show he 'gets' the crisis and is ready to lurch to the Left when he addresses a highly-charged meeting of the Parliamentary Party this evening. Mr Allan said he 'wished the PM and his team every success'. But he was blamed overnight for sparking expectations that Sir Keir would give an 'address to the nation' today - something that was seemingly never planned. There was a notable absence of Cabinet figures rallying round the PM this morning, despite both Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Darren Jones being pictured in Westminster. Deputy PM David Lammy has not spoken since Mr McSweeney's resignation, amid claims at the weekend that he warned against making Mandelson US ambassador. Baroness Jacqui Smith, a relatively junior minister, was put up for broadcast interviews. One Cabinet aide said their minister would not be posting a supportive message on social media because they 'had work to do'. Labour sources said Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden was 'f***ed over' yesterday when he was sent out on TV to defend Mr McSweeney hours before he resigned. But he was a lone voice speaking up for the premier today when grilled during a visit: 'I think the Prime Minister acted in good faith throughout this. Of course he'll take responsibility for the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson in the first place, he's already done that,' he said. 'But I think the Prime Minister is just 18 months into a five-year mandate and I support him in continuing the work he's doing for the country.' Asked whether Sir Keir was the best person to lead the country, Mr McFadden said: 'Yes, he is.' Challenged whether he would still be PM this time next year the minister said: 'Yes, I believe he will.' Bizarrely a British Airways flight simulator had been installed outside No10 this morning, sparking jokes that the PM might be looking for a getaway. Skills minister Baroness Jacqui Smith was sent out to put the PM's case on broadcast, insisting he is not on the verge of quitting. However, she conceded that she had not even spoken to Sir Keir personally. Yesterday Mr McSweeney said he took 'full responsibility' for the decision to send the disgraced peer to Washington, despite knowing he had stood by Jeffrey Epstein after the depraved financier was jailed for child-sex offences. Downing Street said the PM and Mr McSweeney had jointly decided it was the 'right moment' for him to go. Sir Keir has the advantage that rivals including Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham do not appear to be in position to challenge for the leadership. Ms Rayner has also previously insisted an election must be called when governing parties switch leaders mid-term. No10 has been circulating messages to normally-loyal MPs pleading for them to speak up in support of the leader at the PLP session this evening. But many are openly speculating about how long Sir Keir can continue without the man who masterminded his rise to power and who was seen as 'the PM's brain'. Sir Keir previously considered quitting as Opposition leader after Labour lost the Hartlepool by-election, at the height of Boris Johnson's popularity. Lady Smith rejected the idea that Sir Keir is thinking of resigning, saying he is 'determined' to continue with his agenda for change. She told Times Radio: 'No, I think that the Prime Minister absolutely is determined to. He's determined and has taken responsibility for the mistakes made in appointing Peter Mandelson. 'He's apologised to Epstein's victims, and he's determined now to put right a system that enabled this to happen.' She insisted Sir Keir is taking responsibility when put to her that Mr McSweeney was the one taking responsibility. 'The Prime Minister is taking responsibility. He took responsibility for the decision that was made about Peter Mandelson, although, to be clear here it was, of course, Peter Mandelson that in consistent lying and engagement with Jeffrey Epstein let down the party and the Government and the country. Bye bye Keir - aides who've quit No10 in the past six months August 2025 Nin Pandit: The former NHS England official stepped down as the PM's PPS. But she remained in No10 to lead work on delivering the PM's key priorities. September James Lyons: The former journalist quit as No10's strategic communications director after less than a year in the role and was replaced by Tim Allan. Steph Driver: Comms chief who who worked for Sir Keir for years in opposition before joining him in Comms chief who who worked for Sir Keir for years in opposition before joining him in Downing Street Paul Ovenden: Resigned as the No10 director of strategy after his explicit messages about senior MP Diane Abbott came to light. February 2026 Morgan McSweeney: Quit as Sir Keir's chief of staff on Sunday over appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador Tim Allan: Stepped down after six months in post in the wake of McSweeney's resignation. Advertisement 'And I think that will become clearer as the information around the appointment is put out into the public domain.' Mr McSweeney's deputies, Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson, have been appointed joint acting chiefs of staff. Some insiders expect that the 'smart and capable' pair will be made permanent. However, Mr Baldwin - a former comms chief to Ed Miliband known to be close to the PM - is also said to be in the frame. One Labour veteran said that Sir Keir was 'weirdly in thrall' to Mr Baldwin. Another option to stabilise the ship could be Baroness Louise Casey, although she is already tasked with the grooming gangs inquiry and a review of social care funding. Meanwhile, frantic work is continuing on the documents about Mandelson's vetting and ties to senior Labour figures. Sir Keir was forced to commit to releasing a swathe of material last week following a revolt by MPs last week. He has insisted that the details can show that he was misled by Mandelson during the process, and there was a failure in the process. But Scotland Yard has raised concerns about publishing information when there is a criminal inquiry ongoing. Sir Keir's allies are gloomy about the chances of police giving approval today, with one gloomily fearing that when they do give approval it will come at 'the worst moment'. Left-wingers are calling for the PM to resign, with former campaigns chief Jon Trickett warning: 'The buck stops at the top.' Brian Leishman, the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, added: 'There must be a change in political direction and that comes from the very top. 'So the Prime Minister must look at his own position and question whether he should follow McSweeney's lead one last time, and resign for the good of the country and the Labour Party.' Liverpool MP Kim Johnson said the PM's position was 'untenable', while York MP Rachael Maskell described Mr McSweeney's departure as 'a start'. Ms Maskell told BBC Radio 4's Westminster Hour: 'If he hasn't understood the seriousness of the situation, then I think he will find it very difficult to continue,' she told . Other Labour MPs on the left of the party, including Brian Leishman, Ian Byrne and Kim Johnson, suggested Sir Keir should consider following Mr McSweeney out the door. Two Cabinet told The Times Sir Keir was 'weaker' and 'could stand down at any moment' - although No10 said that was 'categorically untrue'. Union chiefs also heaped pressure on the Labour leader, with Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright saying he should resign. Maryam Eslamdoust, the general secretary of the Labour-affiliated Transport Salaried Staffs' Association, told The Telegraph: 'There's no case for waiting until May, given the scale of defeat we are facing at these critical elections. It's time to elect a new leader.' But Starmer ally John Slinger said 'the last thing the country needs is leadership speculations', while Labour grandee Lord Blunkett warned against 'a party acting like ferrets in a sack'. Labour sources said Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden was 'f***ed over' yesterday when he was sent out on TV to defend Mr McSweeney hours before he resigned Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said Sir Keir Starmer is allowing former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney to 'carry the can' for a decision he chose to make. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: '(Claiming) 'I was badly advised' is not a good excuse for a leader. Advisers advise, leaders decide. He made a bad decision, he should take responsibility for that this man said that he was the chief prosecutor for the country, when did he start believing everything that people told him? 'Peter Mandelson had been sacked twice for unethical behaviour. He is allowing someone else to carry the can for a decision that he chose to make. But the real problem is that this country is not being governed.' She added: 'Keir Starmer promised a Government that would be whiter than white. His position now is untenable, because if he thinks that bad advice is enough for Morgan McSweeney to go, then, yes, I think that makes his position untenable.' A father has said 'over his dead body' will he 'give away his son's dream' after being threatened with prosecution by his council for letting his 14-year-old son follow his culinary passion by helping him at the family food truck. Teenager Dexter Olejarka, from Four Marks, Hampshire, has been left 'heartbroken' by the council's position after cooking alongside his chef father Greg Olejarka, 42, in the truck called 'Crane Feasts' since 2024. Hampshire County Council claim Dexter is working within a 'commercial kitchen', which is illegal under The Children & Young Persons Act 1933, and contacted the family last week by email with a 'threatening' letter. Greg, who is from Polish and Italian heritage, told the Daily Mail the council are 'forcing' them to 'sign official letters that Dexter will not be working now or in the future in the food trailer'. He added: 'I will never sign something like that because that is like me committing to a suicide mission. 'Over my dead body will I give away my son's dream to the council.' Dexter, who attends Perins School in New Alresford, Hampshire, has been described as 'heartbroken' over the local authority's position. Greg denies the council's claims Dexter is an employee and is being 'exploited', he said: 'Dexter has worked very hard to get to where he is now. It is not fair on him because we have done absolutely nothing wrong. 'We don't understand what power the council has to dictate what skills parents can teach their own kids.' Hampshire County Council claim Dexter is working within a 'commercial kitchen', which is illegal under The Children & Young Persons Act 1933 Greg Olejarka (L) has been threatened with prosecution by the Hampshire County Council for letting his son 14-year-old Dexter (R) cook alongside him at the family food truck Dexter has always had a passion for cooking and completed a junior Chef course at Eastleigh College Dexter has been helping his chef father Greg at the family food truck 'Crane Feasts' (pictured) for three hour shifts on Thursday and Friday evenings and on Saturdays The father-of-three, with whom he shares with wife Karen, said: 'Dexter is working out of his own will because he decided instead of spending time on computer games, he would rather get life skills. 'Youngsters are like diamonds. They come into the kitchen, and if they have got the right mentor, they will achieve. 'What is the most frustrating part is our local council attacked us as a parent and attacked Dexter as a young child.' The young chef's love to cook began when he was nine, having 'built up a passion' for cooking during the pandemic, and has since completed Level 2 Food Hygiene training and a junior Chef course at Eastleigh College. He has helped his father in the family truck - named in honour of Dexter's late grandmother - after school for three hour shifts on Thursday and Friday evenings and on Saturdays, while keeping up with his school work and 'passing all his exams'. The truck visits five separate locations and covers between 60 to 80 customers during each visit. Regulars of the food truck contacted Cambridge-based food influencers 'Food Review Club' about the food truck and Dexter's talent. The founder and owner Matthew Blinge then visited the truck last month and left a glowing review. Greg believes this video, shown to the Food Review Club's 302,000 followers, tipped off the council. Dexter Olejarka with his father Greg at the food van Dexter (pictured) has been left 'heartbroken' by the council's action, as he hopes to pursue a culinary career Dexter has completed Level 2 Food Hygiene training and a junior Chef course at Eastleigh College alongside his schoolwork at Perins School in New Alresford, Hampshire The family started a petition calling on the council to urgently review and reverse their decision on banning Dexter from pursuing his hobby. Greg started cooking when he was 11 and was taught by his Italian grandfather and has since pursued a career as a chef, moving to the UK in 2003. Under The Children & Young Persons Act 1933, children can generally get a 'light work' part-time job from the age of 14. Children cannot do any job that may affect their health and safety or jeopardize their education. A Hampshire County Council spokesperson said: 'We can't comment on individual cases, but we fully recognise how important it is for children to explore their interests and build new skills safely, alongside their education. 'The Council has a legal responsibility to make sure all children in Hampshire are safe, protected, and not missing out on school if they take part in any kind of work. This means ensuring they have the right work permit, are not doing tasks or working hours that are prohibited by law for their age, and that any work happens outside the school day. These national rules exist to prevent exploitation and keep children safe in potentially risky environments. 'We're always here to help families understand the child employment rules, which can be detailed, and we encourage anyone with questions to get in touch for advice.' Ghislaine Maxwell is expected to plead the fifth when she appears before a US Congress board investigating Jeffrey Epstein's crimes on Monday. Maxwell, 64, will be questioned behind closed doors but is set to invoke her right to not answer questions. She is serving 20 years in prison for trafficking girls to the sex offender and will face questions from prison via videolink, in a deposition by the House of Representatives' Oversight Committee. Though no new US prosecutions are expected after the latest release of government files on Epstein, numerous political and business leaders have fallen into scandal or resigned as their ties to the pedophile were revealed. The Republican-led committee is probing his connections to powerful figures and how information about his crimes was handled. Maxwell is expected to invoke her right to remain silent and not testify against herself, guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution. Epstein was convicted in 2008 of soliciting a minor. His extensive ties to the world's rich and powerful, especially after he was released in 2009, have become politically explosive across the globe. In the UK, Sir Keir Starmer's Government has been plunged into crisis as former US ambassador Peter Mandelson's close links to the disgraced financier have been revealed. Ghislaine Maxwell is expected to plead the fifth when she appears before a US Congress board investigating Jeffrey Epstein's crimes on Monday Maxwell, 64, will be questioned behind closed doors but is set to invoke her right to not answer questions Epstein died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial for trafficking children, which was ruled a suicide. Maxwell's lawyers have pushed Congress to grant her legal immunity to testify in a deposition, but lawmakers have refused. Without that, her legal team said she would invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. 'Proceeding under these circumstances would serve no other purpose than pure political theater,' her lawyers said in a letter. Though the deposition will be held behind closed doors, Representative Ro Khanna, a Democrat, published a letter outlining the questions he intends to ask Maxwell, even if she refuses to answer. Some touch on Trump's ties to her and Epstein. Others focus on four 'co-conspirators' as well as 25 other men who allegedly 'sexually abused minors at Epstein's island.' One of the questions asks: 'Why do you believe they were not indicted?' The Trump administration has already come under criticism for its handling of her case. Your browser does not support iframes. Maxwell was moved to a minimum-security prison in Texas last year after meeting twice with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanch Surveillance footage released in the latest batch of Epstein files shows Maxwell in her prison cell in the notorious Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn in July 2020 Maxwell is serving 20 years in jail for her role in a scheme to exploit girls with Epstein Last year, Maxwell was moved to a minimum-security prison in Texas after meeting twice with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as Donald Trump's personal lawyer. The US president himself was a longtime Epstein associate, but has not been called to testify by the Oversight Committee, which is led by members of his Republican Party. Trump has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein's activities. Also expected to be deposed by the committee are former president Bill Clinton and his wife, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, both Democrats. The Clintons have called for their depositions to be held publicly to prevent Republicans from politicizing their testimony. A British grandfather has died while ice wall climbing in the Italian Alps. Stephen Lismore, 71, got into difficulty while descending the rock face with a friend during a climb on Saturday. Officials involved in the rescue said he mistook an opening in the ice wall for a way down and climbed down into it, before being hit by freezing water from rapids. He was unable to climb out in the sub-zero temperatures and is thought to have died from hypothermia, though an investigation is under way to establish the exact cause of death. The tragedy happened at a popular ice climbing spot in Lillaz, near Cogne, as his friend watched from above. Guidebooks describe the three-tiered 150m water falls as 'stunning'. In winter they freeze over providing a popular adventure for climbers. Video provided to the Daily Mail shows alpine rescue teams arriving at the site by helicopter, with the cascade of water visible in the background as teams work to recover the man's body. A British pensioner has died while ice wall climbing in the Italian Alps. Stephen Lismore, 71, got into difficulty while descending the rock face with a friend during a climb on Saturday Officials involved in the rescue said he mistook an opening in the ice wall for a way down and climbed down into it, before being hit by freezing water from rapids. Pictured: Rescuers at the scene The tragedy happened at a popular ice climbing spot in Lillaz, near Cogne, as his friend watched from above A rescuer told the Daily Mail: 'The victim was in a double cord with a companion at the top of the waterfall' A rescuer told the Daily Mail: 'The victim was in a double cord with a companion at the top of the waterfall. 'He was climbing down when we think he mistakenly entered an aperture in the ice wall and was then overcome by the ice-cold water. 'At this point we are not sure whether he drowned or died from hypothermia because of the water but an autopsy will establish that. 'His companion raised the alarm and initially we were led to believe it was a simple cord stuck incident, but when we arrived it became apparent what happened. 'The conditions were good we just think he was confused because it was dark at the time and this added to the difficulty of the rescue operation as well.' Saturday's fatality was the second this year of a person while ice climbing in the area - last month a French thrill-seeker died after falling more than 10m (30ft). An FCDO spokesman said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Italy.' The Prince and Princess of Wales today addressed the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, saying they are 'deeply concerned'. William and Kate said their 'thoughts remain focused on the victims' of the child predator and his global network. Their intervention came as the prince flew to Saudi Arabia for an official visit to the desert kingdom. And it flew in the face of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's long-standing arrogance amid mounting evidence of his deep friendship with the paedophile. It came ten days after shocking new details from the Epstein files engulfed the Government and the Royal Family. Speaking to journalists in the Saudi capital Riyadh this morning, a Kensington Palace spokesman said: 'I can confirm the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. 'Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.' The remarks echoed the King and Queen's support last October for the many victims of the prolific paedophile. Kensington Palace sources said that although this was the first time there has been a public statement from the Prince and Princess of Wales, they had let it be known then that they shared the sentiments of Buckingham Palaces statement. Prince William, Andrew and Kate outside Westminster Cathedral on September 16 last year Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein walk together in New York's Central Park on December 5, 2010 King Charles greeted crowds during a visit to Lancashire this morning Charles and Camilla became the first senior royals to publicly voice their support for the many women and girls who suffered appalling abuse at the hands of Epstein. Andrew has never voiced any sympathy for the victims of his friend's horrendous crimes and is said to have even refused to sign off press statements that expressed even the broadest of support for the victims of abuse. Last October Buckingham Palace said: 'Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.' And last week, the Duke of Edinburgh was taking part in a press Q&A at the World Governments Summit in Dubai when he was asked about the King and Queen's response to the issue. Although he began by suggesting the audience might not be 'the least bit interested' in the issue given that they were there to discuss education policy, Edward, 61, went on: 'I think it's all really important always to remember the victims and who are the victims in all of this.' Financier Epstein, who courted the world's elite, was found dead in his cell in 2019 awaiting trial for masterminding a global network of child sex abuse. His madam, the British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell, is in jail for helping him recruit schoolgirl victims to molest. Your browser does not support iframes. Andrew crouched over an unidentified woman who is lying on the floor, in the new Epstein files A photo of Jeffrey Epstein which was in the latest files from the US Department of Justice The former Duke of York - a friend to them both who denies claims Virginia Roberts was forced to have sex with him aged 17 has had his royal titles stripped from him and been sent into exile in Norfolk. He famously told Emily Maitlis in his Newsnight interview he had cut ties with Epstein when he stayed with him in New York in December 2010. But the latest files show emails that tell a different story. With girls coming 'after school' and $5,000 cash floats, the full sordid truth about his wild visit to Jeffrey Epstein's mansion to 'break up their friendship' showed he lied to BBC viewers. He suggested he had stayed 'four days', but in truth, Andrew enjoyed the paedophile's hospitality for nine days and the scheming financier organised a dizzying timetable of meetings and parties starting with a 'facial' cosmetic treat, analysis of the latest cache of emails reveals. Disturbingly, there are several emails to Epstein that week about young women apparently of school age. One 'confirmed that she would come after school', while another email stated someone 'will come after school'. They are not identified so it is unclear if they refer to the same girl - although these two emails were sent from different devices. Some Americans also refer to college as school. Nigel Farage will today gear Reform up to be ready in case Labour's collapse into chaos triggers a snap general election. Mr Farage will use a speech this afternoon to outline his plans for his frontbench team, telling party members to be ready to go to the polls by the end of the year. While there are expected to be many positions filled by former Tories like Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman, he is expected to announce a number of positions held by figures outside politics, the Telegraph reported. While a general election is not due to take place until 2029 and there remain many barriers to one happening earlier, he will also say Reform is beginning its recruitment campaign for prospective MPs. It comes as Labour continues to eat itself over the appointment of former minister Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, after a slew of revelations about his closeness to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The PM is holed up in Downing Street after the storm over the peer's appointment as US ambassador claimed the scalp of Morgan McSweeney. MPs are warning Sir Keir he must show he 'gets' the crisis and is ready to lurch to the Left when he addresses a highly-charged meeting of the Parliamentary Party this evening. But there is speculation the premier could simply opt to walk away, with deadly silence from the most senior Cabinet ministers. Mr Farage will use a speech this afternoon to outline his plans for his frontbench team, telling party members to be ready to go to the polls by the end of the year. The PM is holed up in Downing Street after the storm over the peer's appointment as US ambassador claimed the scalp of Morgan McSweeney. Your browser does not support iframes. Last week Mr Farage told a BBC documentary that Reform was only 'half-ready' for a general election. But he is due to use his speech today to say one could be held within a year due to Labour's 'instability'. 'I will be bringing together a team to build an industrial strategy, one that can rebuild our national infrastructure and security that has been dismantled by the Tories and Labour,' he is expected to say. He is seeking 'brightest and best' to stand for the party whenever the next election happens. Earlier he wrote on Twitter:'Labour are just continuing the chaos we saw under the Tories. 'My money says Starmer won't be far behind after Labour's disaster in the elections this coming May.' It comes as Labour faces two political crunch points in coming months, the Gorton and Denton by-election later this month and the local and devolved assembly elections in May. Sir Keir faces losing a seat in Greater Manchester that Labour won by 13,000 votes in 2024, and it could be on course for hammerings in Scotland, Wales and English council votes. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said Sir Keir Starmer is allowing former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney to 'carry the can' for a decision he chose to make. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said Sir Keir Starmer is allowing former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney to 'carry the can' for a decision he chose to make. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: '(Claiming) 'I was badly advised' is not a good excuse for a leader. Advisers advise, leaders decide. He made a bad decision, he should take responsibility for that this man said that he was the chief prosecutor for the country, when did he start believing everything that people told him? 'Peter Mandelson had been sacked twice for unethical behaviour. He is allowing someone else to carry the can for a decision that he chose to make. But the real problem is that this country is not being governed.' She added: 'Keir Starmer promised a Government that would be whiter than white. His position now is untenable, because if he thinks that bad advice is enough for Morgan McSweeney to go, then, yes, I think that makes his position untenable.' Hundreds of coerced 'confessions' have aired on Iranian television in recent weeks with detainees sentenced to death for 'waging a war against God' in the wake of mass anti-regime riots. Thousands are thought to have been either killed or rounded up and jailed when the protests were brought to an end in a deadly crackdown by the Islamic Republic's guards. Since then, the regime has started dragging prisoners from their jail cells to sit in front of bright studio lights for televised interrogations, which are designed to instill fear across the population that hundreds if not thousands could be hanged. Human rights groups have also claimed that the Iranian regime is carrying out secret extrajudicial executions and lethal injections on detainees. It comes as the security forces arrested at least four senior reformist politicians on suspicion of plotting to overthrow the Islamic system, at a time of strained relations with the US. Since protests began late December, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says it has verified 6,961 deaths, mostly demonstrators, and has another 11,630 cases under investigation. It has also counted more than 51,000 arrests. The internet blackout has made it extremely difficult to document the full extent of the death toll, with Iranian medics suggesting the true number could exceed 30,000. According to Arina Moradi, a member of the Hengaw Organisation for Human Rights, detainees are also subjected to 'mock' executions in jail as a form of psychological torture and humiliation. As well as the mock executions, Norway-based Iran Human Rights says it is currently investigating several credible reports that demonstrators have been 'secretly executed in several prisons' across the country since nationwide riots began. Iranian state television broadcast of the interrogation of 18-year-old prisoner Shervin Bagherian A billboard displaying a map of potential targets in Tel Aviv, Israel, along with a warning message reading, 'You start, we finish!' is seen at Palestine Square, Tehran, February 9 Shervin Bagherian, 18, appeared in one of Iran's televised confessions wearing a bright blue prison uniform and silver handcuffs. During the video, he was accused of provoking crowds of demonstrators against paramilitaries and of kicking the bodies of dead security officials. The interrogator demands to know 'how many families you have ruined, how many children you have orphaned', causing Bagherian to slump forward on the table in desperation with his head in his arms. He is condemned to execution and begs for his life: 'For Gods sake, not execution! Sir, I made a mistake, I was wrong, please, for Gods sake, I wasnt doing anything.' By late December, as protests slowly began to take hold across Iran, the regime had already carried out more than 2,200 executions in 91 cities, according to the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). This was the highest figure in decades, signifying an unprecedented peak in brutality in Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's 36-year rule as Supreme Leader. In the aftermath of the security forces' brutal massacre of protestors on January 8, 9 and 10, many Iranians describe a 'sea of blood' separating civilians from the lethal government that rules them. The protestors arrested in the recent crackdown have alleged abuse while in custody, including forced nudity, exposure to cold conditions, and 'injections with substances of unknown composition', according Iran International, citing a source close to a detainee in prison. Samira Parvareshkhah was arrested by security forces on January 9 in Rasht and was released two days later with 'extensive bruising' across her body, Hyrcani Human Rights Media claimed. Shortly after returning home, her condition deteriorated with severe nausea, and she died while being transported to Bandar Anzali Hospital. No official explanation has been provided for the cause of her sickness. During the nationwide 'Woman, Life, Freedom' protests of 2022, over the death in custody of Mahsa Amini who was arrested for wearing her hijab incorrectly, authorities dismissed similar mysterious deaths as cases of overdose or suicide. Families gather at the Kahrizak Coroner's Office confronting rows of body bags as they search for relatives killed during the regime's violent crackdown on nationwide protests Protesters dancing and cheering around a bonfire in Tehran on January 9 Iranians attend an anti-government protest in Tehran on January 9 A file photo of a public execution of four Iranians in the southern city of Shiraz, 590 miles south of Tehran, September 2007 US President Donald Trump boasted that his intervention prevented more than 800 scheduled executions, after the White House warned there would be 'grave consequences' for Iran if killings linked to its crackdown continue. But the population is still fearful about the prospect of executions, compounded by comments made by Irans judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, who said there would be 'swift action' and harsh punishments for protestors. The head of Irans Reformists Front, Azar Mansouri, was arrested at her home on Sunday, in a move that is likely to deepen tensions over Tehran's handling of the recent street protests. She served as an adviser to former reformist president Mohammad Khatami. After the start of the most recent protest movement in December, initially triggered by economic stagnation, she expressed support for the demonstrators and expressed deep sorrow at their deaths, In what appeared to a concerted roundup of the key reformist figures outside government, Ebrahim Asgharzadeh, the chief of the fronts political committee, and Mohsen Aminzadeh, a former deputy foreign minister for American affairs, were also arrested. The Reform Front's spokesperson, Javad Emam, was the fourth figure to be arrested. The state-affiliated Fars news agency accused those detained of 'targeting national solidarity', opposing the constitution, colluding with 'the enemys propaganda' and promoting 'surrender' while establishing 'secret mechanisms to overthrow' the Islamic theocracy. The reformist camp largely backed incumbent president Massoud Pezeshkian in the 2024 presidential election. The move came days after Iranian and US officials held talks in Oman that both sides painted as positive. Trump said the US had 'very good' talks with Tehran on Friday and that discussions would continue, but noted that the consequences for Iran would be 'very steep' if a deal was not reached. Protesters pictured wading through tear gas during an anti-government protest in Tehran, January 8 Footage showing an Iranian regime truck speeding into a crowd and running over protestors, allegedly killing one woman, January 8 The US had threatened military action against Iran during the peak of the protest movement that swept the nation earlier this year, which saw authorities launch a deadly crackdown to quell dissent. There was no immediate indication that the two sides discussed the protests during Friday's Omani-mediated talks. Iran has branded the protests as riots fuelled by its arch-foes Israel and the US, and on Monday, supreme leader Khamenei called on the nation to show 'resolve' against foreign pressure. 'National power is less about missiles and aircraft and more about the will and resolve of the people,' Khamenei said, adding: 'Show it again and frustrate the enemy.' At the talks in Oman, the US and Iran had agreed to discuss Tehran's nuclear programme, though Washington and Israel also want to put the Islamic republic's ballistic missiles and its support for regional militant groups on the agenda. Iran insists its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes but Western powers and Israel believe it is seeking a nuclear weapon. On Sunday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran could envision 'a series of confidence-building measures concerning the nuclear programme' in exchange for the United States lifting sanctions on the country. But Araghchi insisted on Iran's right to continue enriching uranium. Meanwhile, the secretary of Iran's top security body, Ali Larijani, said he will visit Oman on Tuesday for meetings with Omani authorities. With the US giving no indication that the protest crackdown is still a potential issue in the negotiations, Iranian authorities appear to be tightening their grip. On Saturday, Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi was sentenced to six years in prison on charges of harming national security and was also given a one-and-a-half year prison sentence for 'propaganda' against Iran's Islamic system, her foundation said in a statement. Mohammadi was arrested in December before nationwide protests erupted later that month. Already incarcerated for much of the past decade as a result of her campaigning against Iran's use of capital punishment and mandatory dress code for women, she now faces 17 more years behind bars with the addition of these new sentences. She also faces 154 lashes carried over from previous sentencing. Several prominent activists have also been arrested in recent days for their contribution to the statement critical of the authorities that was written in the wake of the January crackdown. Filmmaker Mehdi Mahmoudian, co-screenwriter of the film 'It Was Just an Accident,# winner of the Palme d'Or at Cannes in 2025, is among them. The authorities in Iran have acknowledged that 3,117 people were killed in the protests, publishing on Sunday a list of 2,986 names, most of whom they say were members of the security forces and innocent bystanders. An aristocrat has backed legal action to make sure his son who was born via a surrogate mother can inherit a share of his 157 million fortune. The 8th Marquess of Bath, Ceawlin Thynn, and his wife Emma, Marchioness of Bath, welcomed the birth of their second child, Henry, in 2016. He was born via a surrogacy after the Marchioness suffered from hypophysitis during her first pregnancy and was warned that a second one could prove fatal. Henry is thought to have been the first member of the British aristocracy to have been born by surrogacy. However this has raised questions about the legitimacy of his son's right to inherit a share of his vast wealth. At a hearing of the High Court in Bristol, details emerged relating to the family's three trusts. Mr Justice Matthews said trusts retained the 'pre-1970, common law meanings of descriptions of family relationships' so there was 'uncertainty as to whether Henry falls at present within the class of beneficiaries'. He added: 'The [marquess] and his wife consider it would be unfair and unfortunate if their second son and his issue were excluded from benefit.' The 8th Marquess of Bath, Ceawlin Thynn, and his wife Emma, Marchioness of Bath The Marquess is seeking approval from the court to allow Henry and any of Henry's future children to inherit his wealth. However, issues of inheritance tax may also create a complication, as Henry was born in the US to an American mother. The judge said that decision to ensure Henry's rights could potentially 'prejudice the interests' of other beneficiaries, including his older brother, John, 11, or any other future legitimate children of the marquess. The trustees include James Hervey-Bathurst, 76, whose family seat is Eastnor Castle near Ledbury, Herefordshire, and Anthony Westropp, 81, whose wife inherited Goadby Hall, the Palladian-style mansion near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. The court heard that Thynn was seeking to confer power to add Henry to his beneficiaries, but not to exercise the power yet, The Times reported. The judge approved the appointment of a solicitor to represent the other beneficiaries of the family's trusts. Thynn inherited his title following the death of his father from Covid in 2020, aged 87. He became estranged from his father, who was famous for keeping mistresses as wifelets, after removing some of his father's erotic artworks from the Longleat estate. The Marquess is seeking approval from the court to allow Henry and any of his future children to inherit his wealth Emma Weymouth then made history when she became the countrys first black British aristocrat following their 2013 marriage. Speaking after the birth of his son in 2016, the Marquess, 51, who runs the 900-acre Longleat estate on the Wiltshire-Somerset border, shared his joy. Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: 'Never did I imagine that in West Hollywood I'd become father to John's little miracle baby brother. 'It's a wonder of modern science that the Longleat Bath family has been completed (for now at least) by Emma and I having a much-loved son, helped so crucially by a tremendous surrogate in California, to extend our family.' Emma, who is also a fashion model and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, said: We are simply ecstatic. His arrival has completed our little family and brought us so much happiness. We have certainly been worried about how people will react to the news. 'I just want them to know this is not about my vanity or that I was too lazy. Im not the kind of person who would have done this for anything less than a very important reason. I didnt care about my weight gain or that breast feeding would ruin my body. I just want to live to see my children grow up. I did not want to take the risk of something tragic happening. I really enjoyed being pregnant up until the point when the terrifying pains began. Emma Weymouth made history when she became the countrys first black British aristocrat following the couple's 2013 marriage Their choice of surrogacy is the result of a terrifying brain illness suffered by Emma during her first pregnancy in 2014, when doctors warned that having a second child could kill her. The problems began when Emma was diagnosed with a disorder of the pituitary gland, which left her with searing pain she describes as like a knife stabbing at my brain. I had never known such pain, she told The Mail shortly after her second pregnancy. It was beyond anything I could imagine. I tried everything to alleviate it, but often ended up lying in a dark room trying not to move. Even breathing too hard was agony. The headaches which started in the summer of 2014, during her third trimester were manageable with painkillers until the family was on holiday in the South of France. There, her symptoms escalated. I was more worried about the baby than myself, she continues. It was so upsetting to be that ill. It hurt so much that I threw up and Ceawlin called an ambulance. Doctors at the local hospital thought the pain was hormone-related. But once back in Britain, Emmas symptoms got progressively worse. She tried various treatments including wearing a neck brace but nothing worked. Emma says it felt as if she was bleeding in her brain, which is exactly what an MRI scan revealed. Although doctors initially suspected a non-cancerous tumour, she was diagnosed with a rare but serious condition called hypophysitis, involving swelling and bleeding, which can cause a stroke during a traditional birth. The Marchioness added: The doctors didnt understand hypophysitis very well at all, but they knew it was potentially fatal, he says. They had to inject Emma with steroids to help develop the babys lungs, as they prepared for an emergency C-section three weeks before her due date, because her life was at risk from a natural birth. It was a very worrying time, especially as no one could really tell us much about the condition. The underwent months of tests even after John was born safely. A mother and father who abused their three-year-old son in the 'most horrific way' before he died have been sentenced to life in prison in Austria. Parents Kevin and Nathalie M were handed life sentences after deliberately torturing their son, Elias, for a period of five months before he died of malnutrition and dehydration in May 2024. They were found guilty of murder, torture, and unlawful imprisonment at a trial in Innsbruck on Monday. Closing the case, prosecutor Verena Pezzei said: 'We have never dealt with anything so horrific in this district or even in all of Austria'. Elias was beaten with a wooden spoon, locked in a drawer for 22 hours a day and starved and dehydrated by his parents, according to investigators. He was blinded, locked in total darkness, tied to the bathroom basin, showered with boiling or freezing water and forced to sleep on a slatted bed frame without a mattress, they said. Prosecutors believe Elias' parents wanted to kill him in the most agonising way possible. 'According to the shocking results of the investigation, the parents abused the child mentally and physically in the most horrific way,' Hansjorg Mayr, spokesperson for the Innsbruck public prosecutor's office, previously said. Elias, born in Tyrol, Austria, died weighing only seven kilograms as a result of months of malnutrition and dehydration 'They isolated the boy from the rest of family life and locked him away, completely dehumanized, humiliated and frightened him. 'They beat him with a wooden spoon, tied his hands and feet with cable ties and sometimes blindfolded him. 'They also tied him to the taps of the washbasin in the toilet and locked him up for hours in complete darkness.' The three-year-old, who had three sisters including a twin, was excluded from the rest of the family. His sisters, who have been sent to foster homes, were cared for and well fed while Elias was starved. At his autopsy, he weighed just over 7kg, less than half the weight of a child his age. The parents, who were struggling financially, lived in a 'mystical fantasy world in which an alleged demon inside the boy's body was responsible for their problems,' Mr Mayr said. They discussed and encouraged abuse on WhatsApp chats and emails, where they documented their child's suffering with pictures and videos. This 'created an outlet for themselves to vent and act out their sadistic tendencies,' Mr Mayr added. 'The parents also filmed some of the boy's torment and watched it live on a surveillance camera.' The mother confessed to her actions, citing an alleged demon, while the father has previously confessed and said he regretted his actions. Before the verdict on Monday, the father addressed the court with a brief personal statement. 'There is no explanation for what I did'. was beaten with a wooden spoon, locked in a drawer for 22 hours a day and starved and dehydrated by his parents, according to investigators The mother also previously claimed Elias had been unwell and had no appetite in recent weeks but they had scheduled a doctor's appointment 'soon'. On the Friday before his death, prosecutors claimed that the family went out to celebrate the eldest daughter's birthday at McDonald's, without Elias attending. Over the weekend, they also apparently attended a medieval festival in Kufstein without him. The parents were remanded in custody, over 'strong suspicion of murder by torture and omission,' the Innsbruck Regional Court said. They face a life sentence over allegedly 'failing to provide the three-year-old boy with adequate food and fluids for a period of at least several weeks,' Mr Mayr said. They are also accused of not 'contacting a doctor despite the obvious deterioration of his health and his apparent weight loss, so that the child died as a result of his massive malnutrition'. The family moved into the apartment in Ebbs, Kufstein in September 2021 - three years before the death of Elias. Elias's grandmother, 51, defended her son and daughter-in-law, telling Bild: 'They're not murderers.' 'We didn't see this coming,' she said. 'I raised my children well, there were never any problems.' 'Elias was often with me; he was sickly,' she added. 'But what could I do? His parents are adults.' Farmers' mental health in the UK has fallen to its lowest level in four years - after 47 suicides in just 12 months Mental wellbeing among UK farmers over 40 years old has hit a four-year low while those over the age of 61 - who are historically the most resilient group - have seen the sharpest decline. The research also revealed that mental wellbeing measured in 765 farmers across the UK lags behind that of the UK general population. The Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies), a member of The Royal Foundation's National Suicide Prevention Network (NSPN) says the sector is grappling with what it describes as the industry's 'biggest hidden problem'. Collaborating with fellow NSPN member Baton of Hope, the charity is launching a farming-themed digital suicide awareness and prevention package, supported by the NSPN's 1million funding to drive innovation and delivery in suicide prevention. Yellow Wellies has launched its ninth annual Mind Your Head week with the mission of tackling suicide risk in UK agriculture. Running from February 9 to February 13, the campaign calls on farmers, rural organisations, colleges and Young Farmers Clubs to start life-saving conversations, learn practical skills and connect communities to support. During the week the charity will be launching a new 'Suicide Awareness & Prevention' eLearning module which will equip learners to recognise warning signs, use supportive, non-judgmental language, and create simple safety plans. Caitlin Riddell, 35, from Berwickshire, finds the campaign 'massively important' after her suicide attempt in 2019 When Mrs Riddell was working on a dairy farm, very early starts and really late finishes were a normal everyday occurrence (Stock image) Now, nearly seven years after her suicide attempt, Mrs Riddell is a mother-of-two with one on the way, but is worried about the future of farming Caitlin Riddell, 35, from Berwickshire, finds the campaign 'massively important' after her suicide attempt in 2019. As someone who has worked in farming since her teens and is now married to a farmer, Mrs Riddell is aware of how challenging the industry can be. She told the Daily Mail: 'It's always been a very pressured industry. It's always been an industry where it's a lifestyle choice because it's not a nine to five.' When she was working on a dairy farm, very early starts and really late finishes were a normal everyday occurrence. She continued: 'It just got to a point for me where I struggled without necessarily realising I was struggling for quite a long time. And it just kind of progressively got worse. 'I got to a point in the March 2019, where I just thought that I'm never going to get better. Farming is what I love doing. And if this is how I am feeling when I am doing the job that I love most in the world nothing is ever going to get better for me. 'I had thought about everything except what would happen if it didn't work and having to sort of suddenly be thrown into having to face it and having to get better.' Now, nearly seven years after her suicide attempt, Mrs Riddell is a mother-of-two with one on the way, but is worried about the future of farming. 'It's just becoming an absolute battle you can't win. And, and I don't really know what the turning point is. 'This is our life but at the same time, I don't think it's a life that we would necessarily want for our children. 'Not the way it is now, not the way farming is going and not the way it's heading.' There have been many prolonged protests from farmers against Labour party policies on the industry, including inheritance tax. It was estimated that the changes to inheritance tax would raise up to 520 million a year, while farmers and campaigners argued they threaten the future of thousands of multi-generational family farms. After feeling the impact of losing her son to suicide in 2023, Sue Farmer stresses the importance of having conversations, checking in on one another and knowing where you can get help. Sue Farmer lost her son, Ted (pictured), to suicide in 2023 Ted (pictured) was a huge advocate for Yellow Wellies and his family now hope to contribute towards raising awareness about mental health in the farming industry by sharing his story Mrs Farmer's son, Ted, was a 'fun, loving boy who loved the outdoors' and spent time with his godparents who were farmers. Ted called his mum the evening before he took his life and finished the call by reminding her how he loved her and how he was sorry. Mrs Farmer replied that she loved him too and told him not to be late coming home. She said: 'Whilst you cant live with regrets, I do wish that I had asked why hed said what he did as it may have led to a conversation that made him talk through whatever was going on in his mind that made him think that there was no other solution than ending his life.' Ted was a huge advocate for Yellow Wellies and his family now hope to contribute towards raising awareness about mental health in the farming industry by sharing his story. Mrs Farmer said: 'Farming is more than a job. Its long hours, it can be isolating at times, theres pressure, uncertainty and the responsibility doesnt switch off. 'There is still a huge stigma around mental health and having conversations suicide is felt by far too many in and outside this community. 'Having felt the impact that losing one person brings, not just to me but family, friends and the community as a whole, I cannot stress enough the importance of having conversations, checking in on one another, recognising the signs of stress and knowing where you can get help. 'Ted was a huge advocate of Yellow Wellies. If losing him and being able to share our experience helps to save one life and the ripples of devastation around it, we have made a small contribution towards raising awareness.' Mental wellbeing among UK farmers over 40 years old has hit a four-year low while farmers aged 61, historically the most resilient group, have seen the sharpest decline (Stock image) The research also revealed that mental wellbeing measured in 765 farmers across the UK lags that of the UK general population (Stock image) Manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, Stephanie Berkeley, said: 'Over the past nine years, we have made significant strides in raising awareness and improving education around mental health. 'However, when it comes to suicide prevention, progress has been far more limited. 'While agriculture in the UK benefits from rural support groups and charities who deliver vital, high-quality support, a critical gap remains: there is still very little suicide prevention training tailored specifically for those working in agriculture. 'Farming brings a unique set of pressures - long hours, isolation, financial uncertainty, generational expectations and physical risk. 'Conversations about suicide in rural communities require approaches that are real, relatable and rooted in lived experience. 'Without training designed for the realities of agricultural life, we risk leaving those most vulnerable without the tools they need to recognise warning signs and intervene effectively.' 'Farming is tough. Long hours, hard graft and a mindset that says "just get on with it." 'That grit is admirable - but it is also why some farmers leave it too late to ask for help. 'As we enter 2026, we want to address the issue of suicide awareness and prevention. 'Too many farming families are quietly carrying the weight of crisis and loss. The message this year is simple: learn the steps, start conversations earlier and look out for each other. 'When communities know what to say and what to do, lives can be saved. 'We have also created a hero film for the campaign bringing these voices together in a way that speaks straight to the heart of farming: real people, real hope and the unstoppable power of community. 'This will be a campaign about education, resilience and compassion - but above all, it will be about hope and saving lives.' Sir Keir Starmer's grip on power looks increasingly perilous amid the Peter Mandelson scandal - so should Britons be preparing to go to the polls in a general election? The Prime Minister's future has been thrown into severe doubt as he faces huge anger over his decision to name Lord Mandelson as Britain's ambassador to the US. Morgan McSweeney quit as Sir Keir's chief of staff in Downing Street on Sunday for his role in Lord Mandelson's appointment. But there is a view in Westminster that the departure of his closest political ally has left the PM more exposed, with Labour leadership rivals said to be 'on manoeuvres'. A handful of the party's backbenchers are already suggesting Sir Keir should consider following Mr McSweeney out of No10. It means, little more than 19 months into his premiership, there is a real prospect of Sir Keir being replaced by another Labour PM. Should that happen, top Labour figures will struggle to fend off calls for an immediate general election to allow a new PM to win their own mandate from the country. Many of those Labour MPs who now occupy senior positions in Government made the same argument when previous Tory PMs were replaced in the last administration. When Rishi Sunak replaced Liz Truss in No10 in October 2022, Angela Rayner - the then deputy Labour leader - demanded a general election David Lammy, who is now Deputy PM, said prior to Mr Sunak becoming PM that it was 'unacceptable' that Tory MPs were choosing a third PM 'in as many months'. Mr Lammy also criticised the Tories for treating Britain's democracy as 'a game of pass the parcel' and the role of PM as 'a game of musical chairs' When Rishi Sunak replaced Liz Truss in No10 in October 2022, Angela Rayner - the then deputy Labour leader - demanded a general election. She claimed at the time that Mr Sunak had 'no mandate and the British people have had no say' as she criticised a 'coronation' for the incoming PM. Ms Rayner is now the frontrunner to replace Sir Keir in Downing Street, despite having been forced to quit the Labour Government in September over a tax row. Sir Keir himself made similar comments when Mr Sunak replaced Ms Truss as PM in October 2022. During Mr Sunak's first session of Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir told the new Tory premier: 'The only time he ran in a competitive election, he got trounced by the former Prime Minister (Ms Truss), who herself got beaten by a lettuce. 'So why does he not put it to the test, let working people have their say and call a general election?' Shabana Mahmood, now the Home Secretary, said in November 2022 that Mr Sunak had 'no mandate' and 'no platform', adding: 'We need a general election now.' The day before Mr Sunak was announced as the new PM, Lisa Nandy - who is now the Culture Secretary - said Britons 'don't need a new Tory leader, we need an election'. Rachel Reeves, who is now Chancellor, shared a message from Sir Keir Starmer on 20 October 2022 attacking a 'revolving door of chaos' David Lammy, who is now Deputy PM, said prior to Mr Sunak becoming PM that it was 'unacceptable' that Tory MPs were choosing a third PM 'in as many months'. 'We need a general election NOW,' Mr Lammy said in a social media post. He also criticised the Tories for treating Britain's democracy as 'a game of pass the parcel' and the role of PM as 'a game of musical chairs'. The day before Mr Sunak was announced as the new PM, Lisa Nandy - who is now the Culture Secretary - said Britons 'don't need a new Tory leader, we need an election'. Shabana Mahmood, now the Home Secretary, said in November 2022 that Mr Sunak had 'no mandate' and 'no platform', adding: 'We need a general election now.' Rachel Reeves, who is now Chancellor, and Wes Streeting, who is now the Health Secretary, both shared messages from Sir Keir on 20 October 2022 attacking a 'revolving door of chaos'. Both Ms Reeves and Mr Streeting said: 'The British public deserve a say on the country's direction. We need a general election - now.' A saleswoman whose colleagues placed bets on who would sleep with her first has been asked to pay the firm's legal costs after losing a sexual harassment claim. Molly Craigie was left stunned after discovering that her male colleagues, including her boss, had placed bets on who would 'bed' her shortly after she joined East Anglia Home Improvements. She sued the firm - which describes itself as 'the UK's number one home improvement provider' - and a judge found that betting on who will sleep with a female colleague amounted to harassment. But she nonetheless lost the case on technical grounds because she brought her claim too late. Ms Craigie did win an unpaid holiday claim and East Anglia Home Improvements was ordered to pay her 4,775, however the business has refused to give her the money. But now the company has tried to claw back its legal costs from Ms Craigie, demanding she pays them 7,500. A tribunal dismissed the costs application because East Anglia Home Improvements made it too late - but the judge added that it would have been unsuccessful even if it had been made on time. Ms Craigie first joined the business in September 2022 in a role which required her to visit potential customers to confirm contracts, a tribunal held in Watford heard previously. The saleswoman, who was in her early 20s at the time, claimed she found out within two months of starting that two of her colleagues had 'placed a wager between themselves as to who would sleep with me first. She told the tribunal that the betting on who would 'bed me first' came before they knew she was in a 'long-term' and 'committed' relationship. Molly Craigie had only just joined East Anglia Home Improvements, a firm that describes itself as 'the UK's number one home improvement provider', when the disturbing office 'wager' was allegedly made East Anglia Home Improvements, a firm that describes itself as 'the UK's number one home improvement provider' Craigie, then in her early twenties, told the hearing she was 'sexualised and singled out' simply because of her gender She said this comment 'stuck' with her 'as it was the first time I felt my colleagues, one of which was a member of management, sexualised me and singled me out, all down to my sex. The tribunal also heard that Ms Craigie was told she'd been hired because 'she would not intimidate elderly customers'. She left the business in June 2023 and took the company to the tribunal, alleging sexual harassment among other claims. During proceedings, the business said Ms Craigie was a self-employed contractor and therefore the tribunal had 'no jurisdiction to entertain her claims'. Employment Judge Rebecca Peer said there was no evidence that Ms Craigie had 'directly confronted anyone about the wager or sought further information or even tried to ascertain whether the information given by [her colleague] was true'. But she added: 'I find that any such wager is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature.' The wager allegation was brought 'out of time', the judge concluded. Her complaints of sexual harassment were dismissed. The business was ordered to pay Ms Craigie 4,775 for holiday pay. It is still unpaid, the court heard. In the most recent hearing, East Anglia Home Improvements applied to have Ms Craigie pay 7,500 to cover their legal fees relating to the tribunal claim. Its legal representative told the tribunal that Ms Craigie 'from the outset has tried to manipulate the Tribunal into hearing a fanciful case'. The representative said that Ms Craigie was 'prejudiced' because the business had decided not to pay the amount it was ordered to pay until its costs award was dealt with. It was also claimed that she had made an anonymity application in bad faith. This is the moment a malfunctioning tour boat slammed into gondolas on Venice's Grand Canal, sending holidaymakers tumbling into the water. Dramatic footage shows the vessel speeding towards the iconic boats before ploughing into them, knocking passengers into the canal, and crashing head-on into historic buildings. Rescuers rushed to pull holidaymakers from the water as it churned violently from the impact, while shocked bystanders could be heard shouting as the chaotic scene unfolded on Sunday. According to local media, the Alilaguna ferry broke down before reaching the Rialto Bridge and was unable to shift gears. It manoeuvred to avoid two police boats, which then began following it after realising something was wrong. The out-of-control water taxi passed under the Rialto arch, scraping along the bridge, before striking the Fondaco dei Tedeschi pier. It then hit one gondola before colliding with a second carrying tourists, tipping them and the gondolier into the water. Moments later, it smashed into a building on the Rio delle Poste and finally came to a halt. This is the moment a malfunctioning tour boat slammed into gondolas on Venice's Grand Canal, sending holidaymakers tumbling into the water Dramatic footage shows the vessel speeding towards the iconic boats before ploughing into them, knocking passengers into the canal, and crashing head-on into historic buildings According to local media, the Alilaguna ferry broke down before reaching the Rialto Bridge and was unable to shift gears Nine people were pulled from the water and treated for bruises and early signs of hypothermia, according to local reports. The local police navigation unit is investigating the incident. Alilaguna President Fabio Sacco said: 'It appears no one was injured, that's the most important thing. 'Our employee, who was very distressed, was taken to the hospital to undergo all the necessary tests, including alcohol and drug tests. 'The speedboat will be towed to a shipyard for investigation and then repairs: objects can be repaired, unlike people, for whom the worst was feared before knowing they were not in danger.' The gondolas were left badly damaged, while the bow of the tour boat was also smashed. Rescuers rushed to pull holidaymakers from the water as it churned violently from the impact, while shocked bystanders could be heard shouting as the chaotic scene unfolded on Sunday Pictured: A tourist in the water after being tipped into the canal Footage of the crash quickly went viral on social media, with viewers expressing their shock. 'It's a miracle they were not injured or worse! That's a good thing,' one person wrote. Another added: 'Too much traffic. Boats this big shouldn't go through the Grand Canal. It's a disgrace.' A third said: 'Fortunately, you can see that rescue was immediate.' Ethiopian experts hail cooperation with China in clean energy development Xinhua) 11:02, February 09, 2026 ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Green energy development cooperation between China and Ethiopia is gaining momentum as the East African country recently inaugurated the first phase of the Aysha II Wind Power Plant in the country's Somali Region, Ethiopian energy experts have said. Samson Tadesse, project manager of the Aysha II wind farm project, said Chinese companies have become strategic partners to Ethiopia through financing and constructing renewable energy development projects, particularly wind power plants. "Chinese companies are unique in that they pursue a specific model of investment characterized by financing local projects and transferring technical knowledge to local experts," Tadesse told Xinhua recently in an interview. Recalling that Chinese contractors also built the Adama I and II wind power plants in Oromia Region, each with significant generating capacity, Tadesse said Chinese companies are making a meaningful contribution to Ethiopia's ongoing effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a climate-resilient green economy. "The contractor, Dongfang Electric Corporation, is quite capable. The technology and electromechanical equipment it introduced into the project are really marvelous. Even though we have a shortage of finance, the company injected its own money and was able to finish the first phase of the project," Tadesse said. According to the project manager, Dongfang Electric Corporation, which undertook the construction of the Aysha II Wind Power Plant, has introduced advanced designs and technologies, upgrading the power-generating capacity of each windmill to 2.5 megawatts (MW), up from 1.5 MW. Girma Zeleke, supervision and contract administration director at the Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), noted that Chinese companies are increasingly involved in large-scale energy projects in Ethiopia, especially in the construction of wind power plants and electricity transmission networks. "Ethiopia is actively working to harness its abundant renewable energy resources, while China is committed to financing green energy projects across the world. This relationship has greatly contributed for the two nations to step up cooperation in clean energy development," Zeleke added. While inaugurating the first phase of the Aysha II Wind Power Plant on site last week, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed that clean energy development is central to the country's long-term economic transformation. "I would like to extend my gratitude to the EEP, Dongfang Electric Corporation, and the people in the region for their contribution to the successful completion of the first phase of the project," said Abiy. Launched in 2017, the Aysha II project will have a total installed capacity of 120 MW, with 80 MW from its first phase already connected to the national grid. Upon completion, the Aysha II Wind Power Plant will feature a total of 48 wind turbines, 32 of which are already operational, with each generating 2.5 MW of electricity. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) More than 60 teenagers attending the 'Eton of the East End' in London's poorest borough have been offered Oxbridge places in the school's best ever result. London Academy of Excellence in Newham has seen 62 pupils receive offers from Oxford and Cambridge universities - more than a quarter of the year 13 group. Some 39 pupils at the selective academy were given offers by Cambridge and 23 by Oxford - total numbers that rival some of Britain's top independent schools. Half are from disadvantaged backgrounds, including some who are carers and others with refugee status. Two-thirds will be the first in their families to go to university. The school - ranked sixth in this year's Sunday Times league tables - said the total number of Oxbridge offers was nearly two-thirds higher than its previous record. A further four students have been placed in the Cambridge 'winter pool' - where they are considered by other colleges - and could get offers to study foundation degrees. In comparison, 36,000-a-year St Paul's School in London secured 65 Oxbridge offers; while 50,000-a-year Westminster School received 75, reported The Times. Pupils at London Academy of Excellence in Newham, East London, has had 62 Oxbridge offers London Academy of Excellence headmaster Alex Crossman told BBC News: 'We exist very much to provide a particular type of opportunity, academic and professional, to communities that have not traditionally benefited from those sorts of opportunities.' A statement from the school added: 'This achievement speaks directly to social mobility and the power of prioritising the needs of our most disadvantaged students, such that the whole school community benefits. 'Around half of those holding offers this year have faced significant barriers during their educational journey, including financial hardship, time spent in care, and having caring responsibilities themselves towards family members. 'That these students are so strongly represented among our Oxbridge offer-holders is something we are especially proud of.' Staff said they had adopted a 'more expansive approach' to Oxbridge applications over the past year, encouraging a 'larger and more diverse group of students to apply'. The school, which was founded in 2012 as a state-funded free school sixth-form, was backed by leading independent schools including Eton to improve the chances of high-achieving pupils on lower incomes to get a top-level education. The school receives money from Eton and Brighton College as well as donations from individuals and foundations. Headmaster Alex Crossman is celebrating London Academy of Excellence's best ever result Pupils applying to get into the school must show they are on track to achieve at least eight GCSEs at grades 9-7 (A*-A), including at least a 7 in maths and English language. The school's local MP Uma Kumaran, Labour representative for Stratford and Bow, has written to congratulate students and staff on the Oxbridge offers. She praised the 'remarkable achievements with university offers' which were 'a testament to both the leadership you show, and that of your staff, as well as to the students' hard work, dedication and talent'. Ms Kumaran added: 'Around two thirds of students are expected to be the first in their families to go to university, and that 60 per cent of offer holders are female - these are truly remarkable statistics, and I know the impact it will have on students and their families alike.' Newham was ranked as the most deprived borough in London according to the 2025 Indices of Multiple Deprivation study released last month. When the Duchess of Sussex arrived solo at Balenciaga's Paris Fashion Week show last year, its top designer called it a 'beautiful surprise' because she had texted him asking for an invite. Last night she dazzled again in an outfit fit for the catwalk, this time a $8,500 custom dress and a regal oversized velvet train made for her by one of America's top black designers. But today her fans have rubbished claims Meghan invited herself to last night's Hollywood gala because she wasn't listed amongst VIPs on the flyer. The former Suits star looked thrilled as she posed on the red carpet at the 2026 Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala in Los Angeles, where Beyonce's mother Tina Knowles was the guest of honour. After staff helped arrange her gigantic train, the Duchess smiled for photographers. As songs pumped out from Paramount Studios, she was heard exclaiming excitedly: 'Great music guys, let's party!" The ball was co-hosted by Meghan's friends, the British-born entrepreneur Emma Grede and Aurora James, the designer behind Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's controversial 'Tax the Rich' Met Gala dress. A glossy flyer advertising the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala at Paramount Studios listed Ms Knowles, Ms Grede, Ms James and 11 other big names backing the event - with no sign of Meghan. Today her supporters have dismissed claims that Meghan invited herself after the flyer emerged online without her name on. One member of the so-called Sussex Squad of fans said: 'As if Miss Tina wouldn't invite Meghan! Meghan and Doria hang with Tina, and her famous daughter [Beyonce], [they] all are very tight buddies!' Another posted on social media: 'Obviously [she was] invited. But now away from Palace. No leaks'. Meghan Markle went without Harry, donning a pink strapless dress with an enormous velvet black train at the annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala last night A member of staff helps Meghan with her train as she arrives to pose for photographers at last night's Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala in Hollwyood The Duchess then posed with her friend Emma Grede, an entrepreneur and co-host of the bash at Paramount Studios Supporters of the Sussexes have dismissed claims as 'rubbish' that Meghan had invited herself because she was not on the flyer One critic of Meghan who shared the invite said: 'Meghan Markle, Emma Gredes plus one. How embarrassing. I guess the charity do not consider her As Ever as black owned business, hence why she wasnt personally invited by the charity'. Some critics used the document to try to claim Meghan had invited herself to another major event, but her supporters are having none of it. In response one of the Duchess' supporters replied: 'The only embarrassment is you'. Another fan said: 'Meghan would be an obvious invite for this event! She doesn't have to make some kind of PR announcement ahead of time'. It came as the Sussex Squad fought an online campaign to rubbish claims that the Sundance Film Festival world premiere of Harry and Meghan's documentary about Girl Scouts selling biscuits was not a sell-out. Last night Meghan wowed in a custom gown by Charles Harbison with Maison Merenor jewellery. Mr Harbison said: 'Meghan wore a custom Quanta gown in champagne duchess satin with a black velvet trim at the neckline. No extra seaming: just clean and perfectly sewn. 'I thought it would be lovely with a soft silk velvet robe, and the proportions were an ode to Zelda Wynn Valdez, as she requested'. Ms Valdes was a pioneer black fashion designer in the US, credited by some with creating the famous Playboy bunny waitress costumes. The Duchess of Sussex posed on the red carpet in Los Angeles co-ordinating the billowing sleeves of the train with her earrings, shoes and sweetheart neckline. She appeared relaxed at the gala honouring Beyonce's mother Ms Tina Knowles for her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to empowering Black communities and creators. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a foundation focused on building sustainable, thriving networks where Black-owned businesses can flourish. Founded by Canadian creative director Aurora James the charity works with businesses to support and advance equity. The charity's name is a nod to the 'Black people who make up 15% of the US population'. Dripping in jewellery she appeared relaxed at the gala honouring Beyonce's mother The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a foundation focused on building sustainable, thriving networks where Black-owned businesses can flourish Meghan was shown smiling and hugging guests at the black tie event including the designer of her outfit, Charles Harbison The gala hosted by CNN news anchor Abby Phillip is part of the 15th Street Block Party Weekend at Paramount Studios. People took to X to praise Meghan's dress with fans describing it as 'perfection'. One user wrote: 'Perfection. Meghan has done it again.' Another said: 'Perfect timeless gown.' Others highlighted the importance of high-profile women supporting Black-owned businesses and designers. One user wrote: 'I'm so happy to see her there, this is a cause that brings Black women together. The organisation does such great work.' Other celebs in attendance included supermodel Winnie Harlow, Chloe Bailey and Zendaya's stylist Law Roach. The event was hosted to mark Black History Month - a month dedicated to honouring the achievements and contribution of the community in America. Meghan posed on the red carpet with Emma Grede, a British businesswoman and entrepreneur The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a foundation focused on building sustainable, thriving networks where Black-owned businesses can flourish Other celebs in attendance included supermodel Winnie Harlow, (pictured) Chloe Bailey and Zendaya's stylist Law Roach Ms Tina Knowles (pictured) was honoured for her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to empowering Black communities and creators Meghan posed on the red carpet with British businesswoman and entrepreneur Emma Grede. Grede, who grew up in east London, runs a multi-billion dollar business empire for the world's most famous reality TV stars. Fans delighted in seeing the pair pose together with many praising their striking 'face cards'. In June, Grede hailed the Duchess of Sussex for 'building something with purpose, precision and with a lot of heart' after they sat down for a 90-minute podcast. Their chat saw Meghan say she would 'ask people to tell the truth' if she was able to rewrite her public narrative from scratch and refer to a 'lie' told eight years ago. The Duchess also used the podcast to deny that her personal Instagram account, where she shares behind the scenes footage of family life, is a tool to promote her business adding that she uses it for 'authentic' sharing such as her twerking video. Charles Harbison posted an Instagram story of him and Meghan inside the gala hugging, chatting and holding hands. In the video that shows the back of the designer, drawing attention to the dress, Meghan seems jubilant. In June, Grede hailed the Duchess of Sussex for 'building something with purpose, precision and with a lot of heart' after they sat down for a 90-minute podcast People took to X to praise Meghan's dress with fans describing it as 'perfection' The clip is captioned: 'Me and the duchess in @harbison.studio.' The event follows the charity's fourth annual gala last weekend, attended by the likes of Kelly Rowland and Kim Kardashian. Rowland wowed the crowd in a daring hooded yellow gown with a sexy chest cutout that flashed her cleavage. Kim Kardashian commanded attention in a gorgeous black reptile-textured gown that hugged her famous curves. The sleek halter-neck design featured sheer mesh paneling, adding an edgy touch to the 43-year-old SKIMS founder's look. Despite attending the evening solo, Meghan recently shared a clip to Instagram - surprising Prince Harry with one of her As Ever chocolate bars before Valentine's Day. The Duke of Sussex had a grin ear-to-ear as his wife sauntered over with a box of the treats, which she first released last year. Her custom gown was designed by Charles Harbison of Harbison Studio, a New York based luxury womenswear brand In the clip, Meghan approaches Harry and hands over the chocolate - to which the Prince says 'Oh' before turning his response into an 'Oooh' and picking out a bar. A beaming Harry looks at the camera - holding up the bar - and says 'yes please' and proceeds to hand back the box. He then says 'love you', with a cheeky smile still on his face. The bars of chocolate - which sold out within minutes following their initial release - use Meghan's 'signature ingredients' from her As Ever brand such as raspberry spread and flower sprinkles, to 'spark a little sweet nostalgia'. Video captured the moment a 'thief' helped himself to food from an unmanned Sainsbury's delivery van before pedalling away on a bicycle. Footage shows the darkclothed man casually unlocking the back door of the vehicle and filling up two plastic bags with the stolen goods outside a pub in Devon Road, BromleybyBow in London. The theft, believed to have taken place on Saturday outside the Widow's Son pub, was captured on camera by a passerby. The suspect wears a dark green coat and grey jeans and can be seen stashing the bags while no Sainsbury's workers are around. A Sainsbury's spokesman told the Daily Mail: 'We're aware of this incident which we have reported to the local Police.' The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment. Footage shows the darkclothed man casually unlocking the back door of the vehicle and filling up two plastic bags with the stolen goods The suspect wears a dark green coat and grey jeansand can be seen stashing the bags while no Sainsbury's workers are around He helps himself to food from the unmanned Sainsbury's delivery van before pedalling away on a bicycle It comes as Sainsbury's stores themselves have resorted to extreme prisonlike security measures in a bid to deter shoplifters. In the summer, the Daily Mail revealed how one outlet Battersea Riverlight Local had introduced cages with metal grating to protect cashiers. Shoppers took to social media to express their concern at the change. One dubbed the measure an 'indictment of British social decay'. Last week, an innocent Sainsbury's customer was marched out of his local store by staff after facial recognition software correctly identified an offender was inside but staff ejected the wrong man. Warren Rajah was in the Elephant and Castle branch on Tuesday when two members of staff and a security guard suddenly escorted him outside in what he described as 'the most humiliating moment of his life'. When the 42yearold asked why, they pointed to a sign showing that the store used facial recognition technology. Warren Rajah, 42, was marched out of his local Sainsbury's after staff made a facial recognition blunder In fact, they had mistaken him for someone who was on the system for shoplifting who had also entered the store at the same time. The shopworkers mistook Mr Rajah for him and ejected the wrong man. The store is one of six in London where Sainsbury's has recently rolled out Facewatch technology, in response to rising theft and violence against staff. Mr Rajah said: 'Then they told me to leave. It was the most humiliating moment of my life, being escorted out the place I have shopped in for 10 years in front of my community.' A Sainsbury's spokesman said: 'We have been in contact with Mr Rajah to sincerely apologise for his experience in our Elephant and Castle store. 'This was not an issue with the facial recognition technology in use but a case of the wrong person being approached in store.' A 'secret' British girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein sent him messages talking about having the disgraced financier's child and sharing an article suggesting the hiring of slaves' descendants, emails reveal. Shelley Lewis, 49, was previously identified by Epstein's 'madam' Ghislaine Maxwell as having been in a relationship with the late paedophile between 1999 and 2002. Now documents shared in the latest tranche of Epstein-related material suggests Ms Lewis was in touch with Epstein as recently as 2018 - nine years after his release from prison after serving a sentence for soliciting sex with under-age girls. Ms Lewis is said to have forwarded to Epstein an online link to a story about a community with ancestry linking back to enslaved people from Africa - adding to the message: 'Where to find new help.' The story covered the Gullah Geechee community, descendants of people brought to the US as slaves in the 18th century. Ms Lewis, a former children's book publisher who now works as a 'wellness entrepreneur' based in Abu Dhabi, later discussed having a baby with Epstein, according to emails released by the US Department of Justice. The Mail on Sunday revealed in August 2020 how Manchester-born Ms Lewis was said in court papers to have dated Epstein between 1999 and 2002 and took a series of flights on the paedophiles 'Lolita Express' private jet. She later wed wealthy Turkish property developer Mahir Furtun in 2015 but they divorced two years later. Shelley Lewis (pictured), 49, was previously identified by Epstein's 'madam' Ghislaine Maxwell as having been in a relationship with Jeffrey Epstein between 1999 and 2002 Newly released emails appear to show messages between the pair, as more than 3million documents were published relating to Epstein (pictured on a jet with Ghislaine Maxwell) Her marriage to Mr Furtun came a few months after Ghislaine Maxwell asked Epstein to encourage Ms Lewis to make public her relationship with him. Ms Lewis grew up in Cheshire and once worked in the contemporary art department of Christie's auction house in New York. She went on to run a firm hosting yoga retreats in the US as well as companies offering 'lifestyle guru' courses to clients who wished to 'heal from their past'. There is no suggestion Ms Lewis was involved with nor aware of any criminality during the alleged relationship with Epstein, who died in jail in August 2019 aged 66. The newly published emails include one message in which she appears to tell Epstein in 2010: 'I just gave you a great gift by enabling you to "do what you do" gracefully.' Another in 2014 says, 'Love you!!!', while she is also said to have sent him she a photo of a pig dressed as a tiger - prompting a response from Epstein: 'Predator on the outside, gentle inside. The opposite of what I have to deal with.' An email thread from 2017 included a message purportedly from Ms Lewis saying: 'Don't worry, won't put you on the spot about a baby.' The Daily Mail has contacted Ms Lewis for a response. The Times reported she had declined to comment. Your browser does not support iframes. Ghislaine Maxwell (right) named a woman called 'Shelley' as a girlfriend of Epstein (right) between 1999 and 2002, in a 2015 email published five years later There is no suggestion Ms Lewis was involved with nor aware of any criminality during the alleged relationship with Epstein Maxwell had written to Epstein in 2015, shown in a previous tranche of documents released in July 2020: 'I would appreciate it if shelley would come out and say she was your g'friend I think she was from end [19]99 to 2002.' Epstein did not question the assertion that 'Shelley' was his girlfriend during that period, simply replying: 'Ok with me.' Flight logs appeared to show Ms Lewis was a frequent passenger on Epstein's private jets, often travelling only with the US financier. Destinations included New York, where Epstein had a 55million townhouse, and Little St James, his private island in the Caribbean. Ms Lewis was 22 in 1999 when it is understood she met the then 46-year-old businessman in New York, where she worked for Christie's. She deleted all her social media profiles shortly after the release of the court documents in 2020, but in previous interviews she described how she was helped by a 'mentor' in New York who 'was so original in all his thought processes that he couldn't even see the box'. She said: 'My already inquisitive and curious nature evolved. I supposed it gave me a kind of 'anything is possible' mentality.' In the mid-2000s, Ms Lewis published a children's book called A Key To The Heart, which was praised by Harry Potter author JK Rowling and former US First Lady Laura Bush. Ms Lewis later told how she had a 'spiritual awakening.' Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein walk together in New York's Central Park on December 5, 2010 Speaking in 2020, a former colleague expressed shock at Ms Lewis's links to Epstein, saying: 'Shelley was always very well connected and beautiful. I am shocked and saddened.' Her father Brian, a retired millionaire businessman, told the Mail on Sunday then he felt 'very sad' for Epstein's victims, adding: 'I've not seen my daughter for ages. I have no idea what she would want to say.' Financier Epstein, who courted the world's elite, was found dead in his cell in 2019 awaiting trial for masterminding a global network of child sex abuse. His madam, British socialite Maxwell is in jail for helping him recruit schoolgirl victims to molest. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York - a friend to them both who denies claims Virginia Roberts was forced to have sex with him aged 17 has had his royal titles stripped from him and been sent into exile in Norfolk. He has strenuously denied any wrongdoing. This is the horrifying moment a carnival ride detaches and crashes to the ground, injuring 13 people. The 'Tsunami' swing ride broke while carrying 19 people at around 6.15pm on Saturday at the Surajkund Fair in Faridabad, in India's Haryana state. Terrifying footage shows the carriage detaching from one of the arms of the ride as it rotated. The fairgoers excitable screams turn to shouts of horror as the carriage crashed to the ground with an enormous thud. Police inspector Jagdish Prasad died after rushing to help the injured once the swing collapsed. He was struck in the head and face when it suddenly broke from the other end as well, trapping other riders. The father of three, who was supposed to retire in March after 36 years of service, was critically hurt and later died while receiving treatment. The region's Deputy police Commissioner Ayush Sinha told local media: 'The inspector died while rescuing people.' A carnival ride detached and crashed to the ground, killing a policeman and injuring 13 people in India The carriage detached from one of the arms of the ride as it rotated while carrying 13 people Those injured were rushed to two different hospitals and the fair was evacuated following the incident. Earlier in the day, strong winds caused a gate at the fair to collapse, injuring an adult and a child, who were also taken to hospital. 'The incidents are being investigated and strict action will be taken against those responsible,' said Sinha. It is believed the ride malfunction was due to a mechanical fault rather than the weather. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini said: 'I am deeply saddened by the accident that occurred during the Surajkund Mela held in Faridabad. 'I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the person who lost their life in this tragedy. 'Necessary instructions have also been issued to the relevant authorities to ensure proper and immediate treatment for those who were injured. 'The Haryana government is working with full commitment and sensitivity to provide every possible form of assistance to the injured and their families.' The Surajkund fair, now in its 39th year, began on 31 January and is scheduled to continue until Sunday. The fair's carnival ride area was temporarily closed for the investigation and safety checks. A hero policeman died while 13 people were injured. The fair was temporarily closed for the rest of the day It is not the first dangerous collision to take place at an Indian fairground. In 2022, a ride crashed after falling nearly 50 feet at a fair in northern India's Punjab region. The spinning drop tower lost speed before plummeting down instead of slowing. The impact threw fairground goers from their seats as it collided with the platform below. Onlookers were heard screaming next to the ride, watching as their loved ones dropped straight down without stopping. At least 15 people were injured in the accident, including children, with five admitted to a nearby hospital. A Sri Lankan man is due to appear in court accused of drugging and raping a 19-year-old woman. Viaan Surendranathan, 21, was charged yesterday with the rape of a woman and for administering her with a drug with the intent to stupefy for sexual activity. He was also charged with possessing a class A drug. Surendranathan, a Sri Lankan national who has been living in Southampton, has been remanded into custody and is due to appear in front of magistrates later today. Last week, police received a report that a woman had been allegedly raped at an address in the Polygon area of the city. A force spokesman said: 'Officers investigating a rape in Southampton have charged a man. 'We received a report that on Thursday February 5, a 19-year-old woman had been raped at an address in the Polygon area of Southampton. 'The woman is currently being supported by police.' A Baroness has sparked fury after wearing a Dolce and Gabbana dress decorated with grey squirrels to a conference about protecting endangered reds. Baroness Sue Hayman, of Ullock, claimed she 'didn't realise what she was doing' after turning up to the event last summer in the designer garment. Grey squirrels, introduced to Britain from North America, have been blamed for the demise of red squirrels - devastating their natural environment, infecting them with fatal diseases and stripping bark from trees. The UK Squirrel Accord (UKSA), funded by taxpayers, says it aims to protect the red species by reducing the negative impact of their grey counterparts. Ian Glendinning, a retired police officer and chairman of charity Upper Coquetdale Red Squirrels (UCRS), described Baroness Hayman's choice of fashion as 'completely bizarre'. He said: 'It's a completely bizarre thing to do. 'The event was a conference about red squirrel conservation and she turned up wearing a lovely dress decorated with grey squirrels. Incredible. 'You have to admit, it's a rather amusing faux pas, a definite fashion malfunction. Baroness Sue Hayman (pictured), of Ullock, claimed she 'didn't realise what she was doing' after turning up to the event last summer in the designer garment 'The event was a conference about red squirrel conservation and she turned up wearing a lovely dress decorated with grey squirrels. Incredible,' Mr Glendinning said. The 'lovely dress' is pictured The dress no longer appears available to buy new, but second hand pieces are selling online for as much 717 or 620 'It's small charitable organisations like UCRS which do the real and valuable work of conserving red squirrels, by culling the greys. 'We get no funding at all, but are making a difference on the ground while organisations such as the UK Squirrel Accord which benefit from millions of pounds of grants do absolutely nothing.' The dress no longer appears available to buy new, but second hand pieces are selling online for as much 717 or 620. One frock is currently on sale with a 32 per cent discount, and would have cost 955 full price. Mr Glendinning came across a picture of the Baroness, also Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at Defra, who delivered a speech at the conference, wearing the posh garment while looking at pictures of the event online. The 68-year-old said he was stunned when he saw the image of the former MP for Workington sporting the summer dress emblazoned with grey squirrels, owls and pink flowers. He added: 'The UK Squirrel Accord had asked me to provide a laminated academic poster for the event, but told me I would have to pay for it myself, so I declined. 'I was looking at the pictures because I was interested to see posters from other organisations, when I came across the image of the woman wearing the dress, and just couldn't believe it. 'I didn't know who she was at first, and was completely shocked when I found out. The UK Squirrel Accord (UKSA), funded by taxpayers, says it aims to protect the red species (pictured) by reducing the negative impact of their grey counterparts Greys (pictured) are carriers of a lethal squirrel pox virus, which is deadly to the red squirrel and has decimated its population 'I spoke to some people who had attended, and they told me she didn't realise what she was doing, and she didn't understand the problem. 'I have no idea if she wore it out of ignorance of the problems greys cause, or if it was a conscious decision as Defra is against the killing of any wild animal. 'However, there is no other method of control available and by refusing to cull the greys, they are condemning the reds to extinction.' Mr Glendinning shared the image on Facebook and wasn't the only one shocked by the baroness' choice of clothing. Karen Thirlway said: 'What an idiot.' Lesley Wolf added: 'Now if they were dead squirrels, that would be different, but really sounds like someone needs to be educated.' Mike Frear wrote: 'Someone didn't get the memo.' Neil Baker said: 'It just goes to show how much the government really know. Nothing much!' Ian Glendinning (pictured) says the UCRS is increasing the red squirrel population, which shot up from around 10 to 80 in the space of five years on one 300 acre area of mixed woodland Marie Jewitt added: 'The dress is by Dolce & Gabbana so probably cost an absolute fortune too!' Greys are carriers of a lethal squirrel pox virus, which is deadly to the red squirrel and has decimated its population. There are currently around 140,000 reds in the UK, compared to a whopping 2.5million greys. Mr Glendinning says the UCRS is increasing the red squirrel population, which shot up from around 10 to 80 in the space of five years on one 300 acre area of mixed woodland. He claims the only way to protect the reds is to humanely cull the greys. The conference was held between June 25 and 26, last year in London, and was sponsored by the Red Squirrel Survival Trust and the University of Greenwich. The UKSA is funded by the Forestry Commission, which is supported by Defra, and also receives grants from the National Lottery and other organisations. A spokesman for the UKSA said: 'The UK Squirrel Accord (UKSA) is a UK-wide partnership helping to tackle red squirrel conservation and tree bark stripping issues, and reduce the negative impacts of grey squirrels. 'Along with our supporters, UKSA funds research into a grey squirrel fertility control that will actively support conservation and management activities, and have two project officers working on the ground to establish new squirrel groups in areas not already covered.' Baroness Sue Hayman has been contacted for comment. White British pupils are missing out on grammar school places as entry becomes a global race with applications coming from as far afield as China. New data reveals a number of grammars are now being targeted by families from all over the country and the world because they have no catchment area. Experts say some cultures are more open to tutoring from an early age, putting them at an advantage in the 11 Plus exam. Some elite grammars are now dominated by British Indian pupils, and there have also been applications from other countries such as China. While many, such as those in Buckinghamshire and Kent, still do operate a local catchment area, others open up applications to anyone with a right to live in the UK. Some elite schools now have 30 applications for each place, according to Freedom of Information data published in The Times. One school in north London, which had nearly 3,000 applications for its 104 places, took only one white British child in 2024-25. White British pupils are missing out on grammar school places as admissions become a 'global race' with applications coming from as far afield as China (stock image) New data reveals a number of grammars are now recruiting from all over the country and the world because they have no catchment area (pictured: Stroud High School, Gloucestershire, which had a pupils apply from China in 2024) Experts say some cultures are more open to tutoring from an early age, putting them at an advantage in the 11 Plus exam (pictured: Sir Thomas Rich's School, Gloucester, which also had an applicant from China) Another north London grammar had nearly 3,300 applications for 192 places and took two white British pupils. Tutoring in some areas starts when children are six or seven years old, and tutor agencies report more interest in British grammar schools from abroad. The data covers 50 of the 163 grammars in England, and provides details of the ethnicity and distance from the home address for those applying for the years 2019-20 and 2024-25. Sir Thomas Richs School in Gloucester had an application from Shanghai in 2024. Stroud High School, in the same county, also reported an application from China that year. A child applied from Italy to Ripon Grammar School in North Yorkshire in 2019. Meanwhile, within the UK, there was a candidate from Manchester for Colchester County High School for Girls in Essex; one from Leeds who applied to Colyton Grammar School in Devon; and one from Wiltshire for Ripon. St Olaves, a boys grammar in Orpington, southeast London, said: In any given year, we typically receive applications from throughout the UK and from applicants living abroad, sometimes from other continents. Lee Elliot Major, professor of social mobility at Exeter University, told The Times: When families are travelling hundreds of miles to sit an entrance test, its a sign that a system originally designed to serve local academic talent is now operating as a national and global race for elite opportunity. If you cant plan, pay and prepare years in advance, the race is often over before it has even begun. This is no longer just a test of academic potential its a test of who can dedicate significant resources for the preparation. At 20 of the 22 schools that provided comparable data, the number of white British pupils had fallen from 2019-20 to 2024-25. At 14 of the 20 that did so for children from Indian families, the number had increased; the same was true for 14 of the 18 schools that provided comparable figures for Chinese pupils. The number of black pupils was about the same. At Queen Elizabeths, a boys grammar school in Barnet, north London, the number of white British pupils in year 7 fell from nine to two in an intake of 192, while the number of those of Indian heritage increased from 103 to 120. The school is opening a private school in India in August and has plans for another in the next couple of years. Henrietta Barnett, a nearby girls grammar, took one white British pupil in 2024 and 62 from Indian backgrounds. At Pates Grammar School in Cheltenham the white British intake fell from 63 to 28 while its Indian-heritage intake increased from 45 to 72. At Sir Thomas Richs, white British starters fell from 102 to 53 and those from Indian families doubled from 22 to 45. At Wallington High School for Girls in Sutton, south London, the white British intake fell from 26 to 15 but the ranks of those from Indian heritage swelled from 46 to 67. Professor Peter Edwards, a fellow of St Catherines College, Oxford, who grew up in a working-class family in Liverpool, said: White children from poorer backgrounds are simply being left behind. The plight of white working-class boys, the largest group of disadvantaged young people in this country, has always been the least fashionable. Attempts at drawing attention to this problem have been lazily targeted as so-called far-right political thinking. I have heard comments that the cause of this complex problem is this particular class of young peoples sense of themselves. This is simplistic and bigoted. If this country is serious about social mobility, we must target where the attainment gaps are largest. About two thirds of schools that responded had policies giving priority to some pupil premium candidates from disadvantaged homes, and about half reported an increase in the number of children on free school meals (FSM). Despite this, of 27 schools providing data, 14 took on fewer than ten FSM pupils in 2024-25. Sixteen schools provided data on intake from private primaries for both 2019 and 2024. They gave 247 places to privately educated pupils in 2024, compared with 256 in 2019. At those 16 schools, 251 places were given in 2024 to children qualifying for FSM. The balance varied; Queen Marys Grammar School in Walsall took 52 FSM children and five from private schools, whereas Tonbridge Grammar School in Kent took 41 from independent schools and four on FSM. Mark Fenton, chief executive of the Grammar School Heads Association, said: The governments admissions code allows parents to apply for any school and schools are obliged to assess all applicants regardless of where they live. Grammar school leaders would like to see this system reformed. Over 90 per cent of grammar schools prioritise disadvantaged children in their admissions policies, a significant increase over the past five years and a massively higher figure than in comprehensive schools. Research by the Sutton Trust has shown that the most socially exclusive schools in England are all comprehensive schools in affluent areas, not grammar schools. He said grammar schools were working extremely hard on outreach activities but only about 5 per cent of children from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve highly enough at primary school to have a realistic chance of performing well enough to gain admission. The parents of two teenagers killed by fake alcohol in Laos have spoken of their fury after hostel staff who served their deadly drinks were fined just 95. Six tourists, including British lawyer Simone White, 28, died after drinking alcohol laced with methanol at Nana Backpacker Hostel in November 2024. Australians Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, were among the victims. Their fathers said they were left angry and shut out of the legal process after a secret court case handed hostel staff minimal fines. Ms White, from Orpington in south-east London, died from a bleed on the brain days after unknowingly drinking the toxic alcohol. She had been travelling with her friend Bethany Clarke, who also drank the fake alcohol but survived. An associate lawyer specialising in technology and intellectual property at the London office of US firm Squire Patton Boggs, Ms White initially believed she was suffering from a hangover before her condition rapidly deteriorated. On January 28, ten people from Nana Backpacker Hostel were found guilty of destroying evidence linked to the poisoning. They were each handed suspended sentences and fined 95. Six tourists, including British lawyer Simone White (pictured), 28, died after drinking alcohol laced with methanol at Nana Backpacker Hostel in November 2024 The parents of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones (pictured), two teenagers killed by the fake alcohol have spoken of their fury after hostel staff who served their deadly drinks were fined just 95 Their fathers say they were kept in the dark as a secret court case was held at The People's Court of Vang Vieng, where staff were handed the minimal fines. Pictured: Holly Bowles The staff could now be granted exit visas to leave the country after a 20-day appeal period. No further charges will be laid in connection with the deaths of Holly and Bianca, although a man linked to the distillery where the spirits were produced could still face legal action. The families say they only found out about the judgment through other poisoning victims in the UK and Denmark, rather than the Australian government. They said they now feel powerless and unable to pursue justice themselves, as they cannot enter Laos and have exhausted all other options, leaving them reliant on their government to act on their behalf. In a statement, Australian foreign minister Penny Wong said her department had been in regular contact with the families and had made clear to Lao authorities that Australia expects full accountability. The hostel has since reopened under a different name. Ms White's friend Ms Clarke has previously described how they spent the day tubing down a river before returning to the hostel for a night of drinking, believing they had consumed ordinary spirits. The Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the incident took place Ms White studied law at Newcastle University before taking the fast-track course at the BPP law school She recalled: 'We had methanol-laced shots - we had five or six each, just mixing them with Sprite. 'The next morning, we didn't feel right, but we just assumed it was a hangover. It was strange, though - unlike any hangover I'd had before. 'It felt like being drunk but in a way where you couldn't enjoy it - something was just off.' Despite their condition, they continued with their plans - heading to the surrounding area's Blue Lagoon and kayaking down the river again. Ms Clarke added: 'We were just lying on the backs of the kayaks, too weak to paddle. Simone was being sick off one of them. 'Neither of us wanted to swim or eat - which, we later learned, are early signs of methanol poisoning.' After later boarding a bus to their next destination, Ms Clarke fainted and Ms White kept vomiting before both were taken to a local hospital that Ms Clarke described as 'very poor'. She added: 'They had no idea what was wrong. They talked about food poisoning, but we hadn't eaten the same things. It didn't make sense.' Still confused and deteriorating, the group then made it to a private hospital for Ms White to receive further treatment. Ms Clarke said: 'They told me they'd do all they could to save her. She was having seizures during dialysis. 'I was told at one point there was a 70 per cent chance she'd recover. I still had hope.' When Ms White's condition worsened, her mother Sue White flew out to Laos - arriving just as her daughter was being wheeled into emergency brain surgery. Ms Clarke added: 'Her brain had started to swell and they had to shave her head. The surgery relieved the pressure but caused bleeding and the other side started swelling.' The results confirming methanol poisoning would not arrive until two weeks later, by which time Ms White had died. A prison tutor has denied having an 'intimate relationship' with an inmate in an all-male jail. Kelly Duffey, 36, is charged with having a romantic relationship with Ashley Goodridge, 37, who is serving a prison sentence. Duffey was working as a tutor at the all-male prison HMP Erlestoke in Wiltshire when the offences allegedly took place. Goodridge appeared in court alongside Duffey and is charged with using a phone to contact his alleged tutor lover while he was at the Category C prison. He admitted sending a picture to Duffey while he was behind bars. Duffey, from Amesbury in Wiltshire, is charged with two counts of misconduct in public office. She pleaded not guilty to one count of entering and engaging in an intimate relationship with a prisoner'. However she admitted to failing to report an inappropriate relationship between a member of staff and a prisoner. Prison tutor Kelly Duffey, 36, has appeared in court accused of having an 'intimate relationship' with a prisoner Goodridge admitted sending a picture to Duffey while he was an inmate at HMP Erlestoke in Wiltshire Goodridge pleaded guilty to the charge of possessing a phone and transmitting an image by electronic communications in prison. The offences allegedly took place between May 20, 2024 and September 5, 2024. Goodridge appeared in court via video link from HMP Coldingley in Surrey, where he is now serving. The pair were both granted unconditional bail. However for Goodridge, it is technical unconditional bail as he currently remains in prison. The case was adjourned until a hearing at Winchester Crown Court on February 26. Three Australians accused of murdering a gangland figure and injuring another at a Balinese villa have pleaded for mercy in court. Mevlut Coskun, Paea I Middlemore Tupou and Darcy Francesco Jenson fronted a Balinese court on Monday following the alleged assassination of Zivan Radmanovic and injury of Sanar Ghanim on June 14, 2025. Prosecutors claimed Ghanim was shot six times while Radmanovic was beaten with a sledgehammer before being fatally shot. Both men have links to Melbourne's underworld. They had been staying at a villa in the area of Munggu with their partners, where Radmanovic's wife, Jazmyn, was celebrating her 30th birthday. Coskun and Tupou, who claimed they were hired by an Australian man to collect a 'debt', are accused of using a sledgehammer to break into the villa under the cover of darkness and attack Ghanim and Radmanovic. Jenson is accused of organising the logistics of the trip in the months before the alleged attack - including accommodation, car hires and scooter rentals. All three men were arrested in the days after the alleged shooting as they tried to flee the country. Coskun, 22, and Tupou, 27, have been tried together while Jenson, 27, faced a separate trial. Mevlut Coskun (left), Paea I Middlemore Tupou (centre) and Darcy Francesco Jenson (right) faced court on Monday Tupou (above) shared a letter to Mr Radmanovic's family with the court, reading that he was wished to 'sincerely apologise' On Monday, lawyer Ricky Rajendar Singh - representing Coskun and Tupou - asked the court to convict his clients of assault causing death, rather than murder. 'We beg to the panel of judges to sentence the defendant Mevlut Coskun and Paea I Middlemore Tupou with as light as possible sentence,' Mr Singh said. 'If the panel of judges have a different opinion, we beg the judges to sentence them as fairly as possible.' Mr Singh argued his clients didn't intend to kill the alleged victims, had never committed crimes before, were cooperative during the trial and apologised to the alleged victim's family. He also added a few personal notes about the defendants, saying they were young and acted as the 'economic backbone' of their respective families. The assault charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years behind bars while a murder conviction could result in the death penalty. While Coskun did not speak at the trial, Tupou read out an apology letter for Mr Radmanovic's family. 'I'd like to take this moment to sincerely apologise to your family for the suffering I've caused and for the loss of your beloved Zivan,' he said. The men are accused of organising and executing a shooting at a Balinese villa (pictured) June 14, 2025 Ghanim (right) was wounded by six bullets while Radmanovic (left) was beaten with a sledgehammer before being fatally shot 'I understand that no words offered can lessen your grief or undo what has occurred but I am truly and deeply sorry for the pain and the heartbreak your family has been forced to endure. 'I recognise the seriousness of this tragedy and the significance of what has been taken from you. Zivan was a man who held an important and irreplaceable place within your family and I acknowledge that my actions have forever changed your lives. 'I take full responsibility for what I've done and for the consequences that follow. 'I do not expect forgiveness, nor do I believe I am entitled to it. I only wish for you to know that I am genuinely remorseful and that the weight of this loss and the harm I caused is something I will carry with me every day. 'I am deeply sorry for the pain, sorrow and suffering my actions have brought upon your family.' In his trial, Jenson's lawyer called for his client to be freed as he was not seen at the villa on the night of the alleged shooting. Jenson then shared his own statement with the court, pleading for the court to consider he did not commit a violent crime. 'I respectfully ask the court to consider the implications of the 17-year sentence requested by the prosecution,' he said. Jenson (above) asked the court to consider a 17-sentence, sought by the prosecutor, would 'erase my life' and is the 'destruction of an innocent person's future' 'Before the tragic events that bring me before you today, I had never been involved directly or indirectly in violence, illegal activity or criminal conduct of any kind. 'For that reason, I struggle to comprehend how the prosecution can allege that I travelled to Bali with the intention of organising a premeditated murder and an attempted premeditated murder. 'That allegation is inconsistent with my character, my history and the life I have lived for 27 years.' Jenson argued a 17-year sentence 'would effectively erase my life'. 'Punishing me for something I didn't know about and did not intend is not justice,' Jenson said. 'It is the destruction of an innocent person's future. It would also send a troubling message that even full cooperation and honesty offer no protection against the harshest possible outcomes. 'I am accused of aiding a murder based on a series of actions which, taken individually, are lawful and ordinary; renting vehicles, booking accommodation, and purchasing tools.' Kash Patel will travel to Tucson on Monday as the hunt for Nancy Guthrie enters its ninth day, after President Trump suggested answers may be imminent. The FBI director is set to arrive in the Arizona city this afternoon for what his staff said is a 'pre-planned visit' not linked to the 84-year-old's abduction last weekend. But a spokesman for Patel conceded that 'plans may change,' suggesting he could well focus on Today anchor Savannah Guthrie's missing mother if there is a break in the case. On Friday night, Donald Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that federal investigators had uncovered 'very strong clues' and added: 'We could have some answers coming up fairly soon.' Patel will arrive as the final 5pm MT deadline outlined in an unverified ransom note passes. Local TV station KGUN reported that the note has demanded $6 million in Bitcoin. Meanwhile, NBC's Today made Nancy's disappearance their top story again on Monday morning. Crime correspondent Tom Winter conceded there appeared to be no new leads in the hunt for Nancy, who was last seen on the evening of January 31. He highlighted that an upsetting video showing Guthrie pleading for her mother's return, which was issued on Saturday, did not request 'proof of life' and displayed an apparent 'shift in messaging.' Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today host Savannah Guthrie, was abducted from her $1 million Arizona home in the early hours of February 1 The FBI said that Kash Patel's visit to Tucson was unrelated to the case but added that 'plans may change' Winters also discussed the search for the $650,000 home owned by Guthrie's sister, Annie Guthrie, and her husband, Tommaso Cioni. He said Pima County Sheriff's Office had stressed that the Saturday night search was a 'consent search' with 'no suggestion of a possible crime.' Hostage negotiation experts told The New York Times that they detected a sense of resignation Guthrie's latest video statement, where she sat flanked by Annie and her brother Camron, as if they believed their mother had died. The journalist clutched both siblings' hands as she said: 'We received your message and we understand. 'We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.' Lance Leising, a retired FBI agent in Phoenix, offered an alternative suggestion about the video, whose wording he described as 'purposefully vague.' According to Leising, this is a sign from investigators that they have doubts over the legitimacy of the ransom note. He added: 'The possibility that it's fraudulent, and these people don't have Nancy, is still high.' The Daily Mail takes you inside the kidnap case shocking America. Out now on all podcast platforms. Listen here Investigators probing her abduction have remained outside her address for eight days, with teams seen searching a septic tank on Sunday Nancy had dinner at the home of Annie and Cioni just four miles away from her house before her son-in-law dropped her back to her home around 9:45pm MT on Saturday January 31. Cioni said he saw his mother-in-law enter her home through the garage before driving off. The alarm was raised last Sunday morning when Nancy failed to turn up for her virtual church service. Investigators found drops of blood on Nancy's front porch that were later confirmed to be hers. They also discovered that her doorbell camera was disconnected at around 1:45 am. Less than 30 minutes later, her security camera detected movement. Her pacemaker stopped transmitting data to her Apple Watch and phone shortly afterwards, suggesting she had been taken out of the devices' range. Nancy requires medication every 24 hours and it is unclear if whoever abducted her has ensured she has access to her meds. The search escalated on Friday when forensics returned to her home for a third time to collect new evidence, including a car from her garage and a camera from her roof. Your browser does not support iframes. Earlier that day, PCSD Sheriff Chris Nanos told NBC News that he believes that Nancy is 'still alive.' While Nanos offered an optimistic view of the search, he previously admitted that investigators are in a race against time. The elderly woman is suffering from health problems and is believed to be without daily medications. On Sunday, footage emerged from the property showing law enforcement officials using a pole to check inside a septic tank at the rear of the property. Authorities also said a 'vehicle of interest' was identified and believed to have been seen at a Circle K convenience store in the Tucson area on Friday. A Circle K spokesperson told the Daily Mail that a 'tip' led law enforcement to the vehicle. They said the company was assisting investigators by providing access to its surveillance video. It is unclear why the vehicle appeared to be connected to the disappearance, nor whether any suspects have been identified. It is unclear what, if anything, was recovered during searches of Nancy and Annie's homes. NBC reported that Annie consented to the search. Officials previously said they have no reason to suspect the abduction is tied to Guthrie's celebrity profile, but said they have not ruled out the possibility. The Today host earns a reported $8 million salary at NBC and has a net worth estimated at around $40 million. The latest update from the Pima County Sheriff's Department said: 'Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified.' The Jeffrey Epstein files have revealed a secret affair between Barack Obama's former top lawyer and an attorney who worked for Jeffrey Epstein. Kathryn Ruemmler's relationship with Reid Weingarten was exposed by a blistering email sent to Ruemmler by Weingarten's wife Cheryl Gould, formerly a top producer at NBC News. Gould warned Ruemmler to 'stay away' from her husband in June 2015. Ruemmler forwarded the soul-baring email to Epstein, expressing surprise that the wife of an attorney the predator he employed would contact her in such a manner. Gould, who stepped down from her role at NBC the year prior, appeared to break up with Ruemmler on Weingarten's behalf, claiming he no longer wanted to 'proceed through life as a [dishonorable] man'. The email was sent after the two women spoke briefly on the phone, a year after Ruemmler stood down as then-President Barack Obama's White House counsel. Weingarten had an 'addiction' to Ruemmler and 'asked for my help to break it', Gould wrote, urging Ruemmler to 'suck up your [hurt] feelings and send me a sincere apology'. 'I certainly do hope that this time, [you] understand the finality of your "relationship" with my husband. I hope now you can find true happiness without having a relationship with someone else's husband,' Gould said. She blasted the lawyer and her husband for the 'damage you [have] both caused to our marriage and family', especially their son who now 'sees the father figure he has admired his whole life as a weak man who has lied and cheated to his mother'. Cheryl Gould (pictured) sent a scathing message to Kathryn Ruemmler in June 2015 revealing that she knew about her romantic relationship with her husband Reid Weingarten Gould accused Ruemmler (pictured in 2001) of being 'swept away' by her 'feelings of some kind of deformed mutation of love' and implied she has no respect for women who sleep with married men Gould also claimed 'many people' thought she and Ruemmler would make 'great friends'. She then dismissed any possibility of such a friendship because she was the 'kind of woman who loves the sisterhood, not women who sleep with and fall [in] love with someone else's husband or significant other'. In forwarding Gould's email to her, Ruemmler complained she found it 'dispositive' that Weingarten 'would permit this message to stand'. Weingarten was one of Epstein's personal lawyers at the time. Ruemmler is now the top female executive at Goldman Sachs investment bank, with her job there under increasing pressure as new emails display the depths of her friendship with Epstein. When the email from Gould arrived, she was a partner at elite law firm Latham & Watkins. 'Reid has confessed his [secrets] and lies. He has told me that his relationship with you has caused him [misery]. Stay away before you manage to destroy him completely. You have no [dignity] or pride,' Gould wrote. Two days later, Gould, who was the first female executive producer of NBC Nightly News, sent another message condemning the affair and doubling down on her claim that the couple were through. The lengthy email details that Weingarten tried to break up with Ruemmler on a phone call, but the lawyer hastily hung up. Sources say Ruemmler and Weingarten (seen in 2013) had been involved in a yearslong romantic relationship 'Reid has told me about his addiction to you before and has asked for my help to break it. He finally found the power to do it because of the [depths] of his misery and unwillingness to proceed through life as a [dishonorable] man,' Gould wrote. 'I hope you can find a similarly true friend who can do the same for you. I wish you well, believe it or not. Had you not jumped off the [phone] as quickly as you did (which I perfectly well understand) he would have [told] you this.' She further accused Ruemmler of being 'swept away' by her 'feelings of some kind of deformed mutation of love' and implied she has no respect for women who sleep with married men. The journalist further noted that Ruemmler did not destroy their marriage and, despite the 'mess' she and Weingarten caused, 'our love is very [strong]'. She claimed that her marriage would prevail and concluded: 'It must be hard for you [to] understand how deep our relationship is since he has not acted that way in his weak behavior with you. 'In fact, I think he felt he could act out with [you], act as though his relationship with you was intense and real, precisely [because] he knew I would be there for him. He is a great man with great [weaknesses]. 'That doesn't make him a monster and I don't think you are either.' Ruemmler and Weingarten shared a yearslong romantic relationship, but it had ended prior to Gould's emails, a source told the Daily Mail. It is unclear why Ruemmler forwarded the message on to Epstein. But she and the pedophile had seemingly known each other since around the time she left the Obama administration in 2014. Ruemmler appeared in previous Epstein files releases and once referred to the financier as being like an 'older brother'. Gould sent an initial email to Ruemmler on June 13, 2015, ordering her to 'stay away' from Weingarten Two days later, the NBC executive sent another message condemning the affair and doubling down on her claim that the couple were through Ruemmler, who appears to have forwarded Gould's email on to Jeffrey Epstein, claimed she found it 'dispositive' that Weingarten 'would permit this message to stand' Ruemmler has said in the past that she regrets having known Epstein and reiterated that she has never legally represented him. Latham and Watkins, for whom Ruemmler headed their white-collar crime practice, have previously stated that Epstein was never a client. Weingarten, however, was one of the lawyers who represented Epstein in his 2019 criminal case. Ruemmler currently serves as the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel at Goldman Sachs. After her ties with Epstein were unveiled, rumors emerged that executives were devising a contingency plan that would see her leave later this year. Goldman Sachs spokesperson Tony Fratto, in a statement to WSJ, denied the reports, saying they were 'completely untrue'. In a statement to the Daily Mail on Monday, Fratto said: 'Were not going to offer new comments every time someone finds a new email about Kathy's prior work or personal life. All our prior statements about her stand. The team here is focused on our business.' A spokesperson for Ruemmler added: 'The reporting on this is shameful, gratuitous and misogynistic.' The Daily Mail has contacted Gould and Weingarten for comment. Holidaymakers are suing TUI for 5million after they suffered gastric illnesses at a five-star hotel in Cape Verde. The widower of Jane Pressley, 62, who died in January 2023 after falling ill, is among 300 claimants seeking compensation from Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel. Mrs Pressley is one of six Britons to die after holidaying there since January 2023, all of whose families are now making personal injury claims against the package holiday firm. Mark Ashley, 55, of Bedfordshire, Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, Karen Pooley, 64, of Gloucestershire, a two unidentified men from Watford, aged 56 and 60, also died after contracting stomach bugs in Cape Verde. The group action - which is being defended by TUI - is part of a series of claims brought through lawyers Irwin Mitchell following an outbreak of gastric problems among tourists who have visited Cape Vere. The claimants attribute their gastric illnesses to improperly prepared food and drink, unhygienic swimming facilities, stray dogs and rooms infested with cockroaches. According to lawyers, more than 1,500 tourists have fallen ill after booking holidays to the West African archipelago. The claims cover several Cape Verde hotels, but those involving the all-inclusive Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel were the first to reach court for a pre-trial hearing last week. Jane Pressley (pictured) died in January 2023 just weeks after falling ill on holiday at TUI's Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel in Cape Verde Around 300 claims have been brought after hundreds of visitors fell ill during or following stays at the company's Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel in Cape Verde in 2022 The lead claimant in the Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel case is Nicky Morley, from Paignton, Devon, who stayed at the resort in May 2022 and became ill, suffering with diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain, only a day into her holiday (Pictured: Nicky Morley with her husband Darren) The High Court case will proceed to a six-week trial, which is due to take place at the end of next year. The resort is built on the edge of the beach on the island of Sal, in Cape Verde, and features a waterpark, six swimming pools, a spa and several restaurants. According to documents placed before the court, the 300 tourists involved are suing for upwards of 5million, all having fallen ill during or after stays at the hotel during 2022. Infections increased through the summer, before peaking in October, when the holidaymakers' lawyers say 110 people all became ill with gastric problems. 'The claimants were all staying at the hotel on an all-inclusive basis, so that they all ate and drank exclusively - or in some cases predominantly - at the hotel during their time in Cape Verde before they became ill,' they said in claim documents. 'Each of the claimants became ill with symptoms of gastric illness either during their stay at the hotel or shortly after their departure from the hotel. 'Each claimant claims damages for personal injury in respect of that illness, which each claimant will say was contracted at the hotel.' As well as complaining of undercooked food and dirty swimming pool water, the holidaymakers claim their rooms at the hotel were 'unsanitary, infested with pests such as cockroaches, and/or otherwise not reasonably clean'. They added there were 'numerous stray dogs present on the hotel's private beach' which was 'littered with dog mess'. Mark Ashley (back left), 55, of Bedfordshire died last year after contracting severe gastric illnesses while on holiday in Cape Verde Part-time nurse and mother-of-one, Elena Walsh, (left) died in August 2025 after falling ill while staying at the Riu Cabo Verde on the same island Cape Verde, an archipelago of ten islands sitting around 350 miles west of Senegal in the Atlantic Ocean, has long been marketed as a sun-soaked paradise with year-round warmth and golden beaches (stock image) Karen Pooley (right), from Lydney, travelled with a friend to the Riu Funana resort in Sal on October 7, 2025, for a two-week holiday costing 3,000, also booked through TUI, but died after becoming ill with gastric symptoms and fracturing her femur after slipping on water leaking from a fridge. The lead claimant in the Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel case is Nicky Morley, from Paignton, Devon, who stayed at the resort in May 2022 and became ill, suffering with diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain, only a day into her holiday. She ended up at a hospital in Cape Verde, where she was given intravenous fluids and medication, but has continued to suffer gastric issues since, losing more than four stone in weight. 'Since the holiday, I've struggled to socialise or eat out with friends as I'm anxious about my bowel issues,' she said in a statement. 'My whole life has been affected.' Another claimant, Michael Pressley, is the widower of mother-of-two Jane Pressley, who died weeks after falling ill on holiday. Two days into her holiday, Mrs Pressley, from Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, fell ill with gastric and flu-like symptoms, with her condition worsening on her return to the UK. She was hospitalised on Christmas Eve, with doctors suspecting a bacterial infection and prescribing antibiotics. She died a few days later in January 2023. During last week's hearing, Master Gidden said the case should proceed by way of consideration of 30 lead claimants, the decisions on which will dictate the fate of all the others. 'It should be a sample of cases - some simple, some complex, but they should be representative, including some with continuing symptoms,' he said. For the holidaymakers, barrister Stephen Cottrell said the 30 would give evidence at the trial about 'what they ate, what they drank and what the swimming pool was like'. He said three of the 300 have 'ongoing chronic fatigue syndrome,' some have respiratory problems and one more had a stroke - 'very, very nasty conditions'. After a short hearing which was conducted via a video link, the judge ordered a six-week trial to take place towards the end of next year. Jatinder Paul, international serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: 'For several years, we've had numerous holidaymakers instructing us to investigate serious illnesses linked to stays in Cape Verde. 'This is the first group action to go before the courts and therefore a major milestone in our clients' quest for answers. Those holidaymakers in this group action suffered serious and debilitating illnesses. 'The impact of serious gastric illnesses should never be downplayed. They can lead to long-term health complications, and in some cases, can even prove fatal.' TUI is denying liability. Last week, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a warning over travel to Cape Verde. Since October 1 last year, the agency has identified 118 cases of shigella and 43 of salmonella linked to trips to the West African archipelago. People travelling to Cape Verde are now advised to eat food that is freshly prepared, fully cooked and served piping hot, use bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks, only eat fruit they have peeled themselves and avoid salads that may not have been washed in clean water. A Nevada man who was convicted of murdering a woman and her four-year-old son is set to be released on parole, and the victims' family is outraged. In 1994, Michael Domingues, who was 17 at the time, was sentenced to death row for strangling 24-year-old Arjin Pechpho to death and fatally stabbing her son, Jonathan Smith, in Las Vegas. Domingues, who is now 49, was the youngest person to receive a capital punishment sentence in modern Nevada history, but his sentence was commuted after a 2005 US Supreme Court decision eliminated the death penalty for defendants under 18. In 2019, District Judge Michelle Leavitt ordered a new penalty hearing. In 2020, Domingues was given an updated sentence of 30 years to life in prison with the possibility of parole, and he was given time served for the decades he had already spent incarcerated. Late last year, the Nevada Board of Parole Commissioners granted the convicted murderer parole. He will be eligible for release from High Desert State Prison on February 13, after spending his entire adult life behind bars. Pechpho's mother, Tawin Eshelman, was beside herself when she heard the news. To add insult to injury, she learned of the parole release from a reporter, rather than the Nevada parole board. Michael Domingues was sentenced to death for murdering a woman and her four-year-old son in 1993. He is pictured at his 1994 sentencing trial when he was 17 Domingues is now 49, and he is set to be released on parole later this month. This recent mugshot shows how much he has aged since his sentence Tawin Eshelman, the mother of Domingues's victim, 24-year-old Arjin Pechpho, and grandmother of his other victim, four-year-old Jonathan Smith, is pictured holding photos of them with her husband, Vernon Eshelman 'Why do we have to go through this again?' she told the Las Vegas Review-Journal through tears. 'Why?' The mother also said that if she had known about Domingues's potential release, she would have addressed the parole board to try to prevent it. Tawin's husband, Vernon Eshelman, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal: 'I just cannot believe that nobody has let us know this before now. How the hell can the parole board have a hearing on this numbskull and not include us? Thats insane.' 'They go to hell for what theyve done,' he added. 'This is the worst news we could absolutely, possibly endure.' The murdered four-year-old boy's father, Michael Smith, also said he was not notified of the decision to release Domingues. 'I would have said no, I dont agree with it, its not right,' he told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. 'I cant hug my son, I cant talk to my son, I cant even see my son. So do you think its really fair for a cold-blooded murderer to be granted to be with his family?' The Eshelmans said that they did not mail in a victim notification form, but it would have been easy for the parole board to find and notify them. Tawin said she has lived in the same house since the 1970s and never changed her phone number specifically so that she would be easy to contact about the case. Tawin was outraged when she heard that Domingues was set to be released on parole. She is pictured emotionally pointing to a picture of her murdered daughter Tawin was also upset that she was not notified of Domingues's upcoming release by the Nevada parole board, and instead found out after being informed by a reporter. She is pictured getting emotional while talking about the case During a parole hearing on November 17, Domingues told the board: 'I dont know how to ask for my freedom because what happened was really horrible. The person that did that does not exist no more.' He asked for a 'chance at life' and added that he wished he could 'go back and make things different.' Domingues's tone was vastly different from his initial sentencing hearing in 1994, when he pleaded not guilty and said, 'If I could, if I was God, I would bring them back, but there is no way I can show remorse to something I have not done,' according to court transcripts. On Thursday, the convicted murderer declined to answer the Las Vegas Review-Journal's questions about whether he still maintains his innocence and said he was worried attention from the press could hinder his chances of being released. 'Im going home because theyve seen a change in me,' he told the outlet. It has been more than 30 years since Domingues viscously murdered Pechpho and her son. The crime was committed in 1993, when Domingues was 16 years old. Prosecutors at his early trials said that he had unsuccessfully tried to electrocute the four-year-old by placing him in a bathtub and dropping a hairdryer in after strangling the mother to death. When the electrocution attempt didn't work, he opted to stab the little boy. He later confessed the crime to his girlfriend, who lived next door to the victims, and he admitted to taking and using one of Pechpho's credit cards. Domingues pleaded not guilty in his 1994 trial. He is pictured reacting to his death sentence at the time Domingues will be eligible for release from High Desert State Prison in Nevada on February 13. He has spent his entire adult life behind bars Pechpho would have been 57 if she were alive, and her son would be 36. Tawin said she often thinks about how her grandson may have had children of his own by now, and she still cries when she talks about him and her daughter. The mother described her daughter as a straight-A student and a reliable employee who never missed a day of work. She worked in the reservations department of the Circus Circus Casino, and she was attending night school to become a court recorder, the mother added. She had purchased a home by the time she was 24 without ever asking her mother for money. The little boy's father, Smith, described him as 'very bright.' Smith said he had been teaching his son to recite the alphabet around the time of the murder. Smith also said he thinks about his dead son 'pretty much every day.' Wealthy residents are up in arms over proposals to develop a gas pipeline in their beautiful Connecticut town, due to fears it will disrupt homes and create pollution. Brookfield locals have long been opposing the fossil fuel industry's expansion in their charming suburb, and they are now fighting a $272 million project tabled by the Iroquois Gas Transmission System. The firm is planning to construct two new compressors at an existing fuel station located close to a middle school, which would allow an extra 125 million cubic feet of gas to flow through the pipeline each day. Brookfield, a leafy township home to 17,500 people nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, reported a median household income of $142,432 in December 2025, according to city data. Upper-class residents consistently vote for conservative policies, but the pipeline project in their backyard has put them at odds with Donald Trump's agenda to expand natural gas infrastructure throughout the US. Local people fear construction at the gas facility will create vibrations so strong their homes will shake, while also creating unpleasant noise and unsightly pollution. State Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding told the Daily Mail he lives 'just a few miles away' from the station and is worried about the impact on housing. 'I share the concerns of many of my constituents regarding the compressor station's proximity to nearby homes and a middle school,' Harding said. 'This needs a full, transparent process where every single one of my neighbors has an ability to object to this.' Brookfield has shown its opposition in line with its officials, as signs protesting the proposal are peppered across the town on residents lawns and multiple climate protests have taken place Brookfield reported a median household income of $142,432 in December 2025, per city data Brookfield is a leafy suburb home to 17,500 people nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in west Connecticut. The town's park is shown in the photograph above 'There are health risks for our kids, for our families, there are environmental risks for everyone in our community,' Harding added while speaking at a Zoom hearing in January, audio shows. 'This is being put up literally yards away from a school, a middle school, which my children are going to be attending. This should not be approved in any circumstance.' Harding is not the only official staunchly opposed to the project. State Representative Martin Foncello also outlined health and safety risks of the proposal in a statement to the Daily Mail. 'The proposed expansion near Brookfield's middle school is not an abstract risk,' he said. 'Compressor stations emit pollutants during normal operations that can affect respiratory health, especially in children. 'These industrial facilities also come with inherent mechanical and operational hazards.' Foncello noted blowdowns, equipment failures and emergency shutdowns which 'can release large volumes of gas' and 'create significant noise, pressure and safety concerns.' 'The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection must take into account these community concerns when evaluating the application, especially considering this expansion is being requested to benefit New York customers, not Connecticut.' The state representative acknowledged a similar proposal he opposed almost two decades ago, on the grounds that the 'risks outweighed the benefits.' 'Today, with more homes, more students, and more community activity in the immediate area, those risks are even greater,' Foncello concluded. Brookfield reported a median household income of $142,432 in December 2025, per city data Brookfield residents have long-been opposing the expanding gas industry that is taking over their charming town, as its typically conservative township is now fighting a $272 million buildout of the Iroquois Gas Transmission System A proposal has been put forward for two new compressors to be added to an existing gas station, which would add an extra 125 million cubic feet of gas through the pipeline everyday State Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding noted severe health risks at a recent public hearing in January and said the proposal 'should not be approved in any circumstance' Brookfield has shown its opposition in line with its officials, as signs protesting the proposal are peppered across the town on residents' lawns, while multiple climate protests have also taken place. Political Democratic candidate Aaron Zimmer wrote on Facebook: 'Nobody in Brookfield wants the pipeline expansion, especially knowing that Connecticut doesn't even use the gas. It goes to New York, and we're left with the health and safety risks.' While Connecticut Republicans have often critiqued the area's high energy costs, due to its position along the national pipeline network, upgrades have often been slashed, delayed or threatened by local outrage. Both Democratic and Republican leaders have praised the benefits of energy expansion, but support has diminished across political parties when considering local consequences. Brookfield First Selectman Steve Dunn told the Daily Mail in a statement that 'opposition to this runs across all party lines- unaffiliated, Democrat, Republican. 'And there are are some good reasons for that,' he said. Dunn also cited emissions, noise and vibrations produced by the facility as examples, the Hartford Courant reported. 'Our residents are only concerned with out town, our children in the school 1,800 feet away and the safety of this particular facility,' he added. A petition against the proposal, sponsored by the Connecticut Citizen Action Group, described the expansion as a 'direct threat to our community's health and safety.' Opposers named 1900 feet - referencing the proposed distance of the new compressors from the middle school - said that between 2013 and 2016, the pipeline operators were fined for safety failures and 'admitted guilt.' Connecticut republicans have critiqued the area's high energy costs, due to its position along the national pipeline network, but upgrades have been slashed or delayed by local outrage Both Democratic and Republican leaders have praised the benefits of energy expansion, but support has diminished across political parties when considering local consequences State Representative Martin Foncello noted blowdowns, equipment failures and emergency shutdowns which 'can release large volumes of gas' and 'create significant noise, pressure and safety concerns' The website cited incidents of gas pipeline explosions in Oklahoma, Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Virginia, Massachusetts, California and Washington. 'These explosions resulted in catastrophic damage that radiated for miles,' the group wrote. 'Situating a pipeline near a school is already profoundly irresponsible. Any consideration of expansion risks our children's lives and our town's livelihood.' The group further cited concerns for property values potentially 'plummeting,' as well as the expansions lack of benefits for locals. 'Worse, this project won't lower our energy costs, provide significant tax revenue or create job opportunities for Brookfield.' Harding echoed similar concerns and added in his statement to the Daily Mail: 'Connecticut is getting no benefit, we're not getting any increase in supply from this expansion. It's expanding it strictly to provide more natural gas to New York.' Ruth Parkins, a spokesperson for Iroquois, said in a statement: 'The [Enhancement by Compression] Project will enhance the reliability and availability of natural gas supplies for Connecticut's natural gas consumers and power generation fleet since additional quantities of natural gas will be flowing into the and through the state, and available for consumption within the state on a majority of the days throughout the year.' Parkins added that 'if it weren't for neighboring states not taking a narrow-minded view on infrastructure to get the gas to Connecticut, everyone would be on oil.' Air quality in Fairfield County, similar to much of Connecticut, has suffered from pollution blowing in from the west. Harding echoed local concerns and said: 'Connecticut is getting no benefit, we're not getting any increase in supply from this expansion' Opposers named 1900 feet - referencing the proposed distance of the new compressors from the middle school- cited incidents of gas pipeline explosions in Oklahoma, Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Virginia, Massachusetts, California and Washington The group 1900 feet cited concerns for property values potentially 'plummeting,' as well as the expansions lack of benefits for locals The US Environmental Protection Agency designated the county in 'severe nonattainment' with air quality standards - which means it does not meet the national primary or secondary standards, the Courant reported. According to the EPA site, 2015 eight-hour ozone classifications rank from Marginal, Moderate, Serious, Severe-15, Severe-17 to Extreme. Harding added: 'The company has not been transparent, has not really listened to the public at all. The public has given them options to make this a much safer, healthier project for the community, and they've shut all them down.' At a public meeting in January, Iroquois' Director of Operations and Maintenance Michael Kinik said: 'This project has been reviewed for more than five years by multiple state and federal agencies.' 'Along the way, Iroquois has revised designs, performed additional modeling, added emissions controls, and accepted permit limits that are more stringent than what the regulations require.' Currently, the project has received 'tentative' support from Democratic Governor Ned Lamont as final approval on air quality permits from the state are pending. The Daily Mail has reached out to Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Air Pollution Control Engineer at CT DEEP James Grillo, Sierra Club State Director Samantha Dynowski, Brookfield First Selectman Steve Dunn and Governor Ned Lamont for comment. As the search for Nancy Guthrie stretches on with no sign of a a resolution, the authorities are scrambling to piece together the evidence which could deliver her safe return. An apparent ransom demand for $6 million by February 9 at 5pm local time has since lapsed with no sign of Nancy. The 84-year-old mother of Today host Savannah Guthrie was last seen on January 31, when she visited her daughter Annie's home in Tucson, Arizona, for dinner and a game night. Her son-in-law Tommaso Cioni dropped her off at her home about four miles away around 9:50 pm. He told investigators that he watched her enter her garage. Nancy missed church the following morning which fellow parishioners flagged as out of character for her. They called her family to check up on her. When they arrived, she was nowhere to be found. They called the police minutes later and authorities arrived at her home around 12:15 pm on February 1. They determined that Nancy was missing under 'concerning' circumstances. The Pima County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) has been leading the heavily scrutinized investigation. The FBI is also involved and has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy's recovery. Meanwhile Savannah and her siblings Annie and Camron have been trying to communicate with unidentified individuals claiming to be their mother's kidnappers. Savannah told the alleged culprits that 'we will pay' in a Saturday plea for Nancy's return shared on Instagram. Detectives are still working to figure out how - and if - the case's convoluted pieces of evidence tie together. No suspects have been identified. Here is all the unresolved evidence from the investigation. Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of Today Show star Savannah Guthrie, vanished from her home in Tucson, Arizona on the night of January 31 A sheriff's office car was parked outside Nancy's $1 million home in Tucson on Sunday Man prowling the neighborhood Police are investigating reports of a man lurking in someone's yard near where Nancy lives in connection to her kidnapping, TMZ reported. The PCSD told the outlet that in early January, an elderly man who lives about 10 minutes from Nancy saw a man creeping around his home. The case was sent over to the unit handling Nancy's abduction. The man who caught the stranger lurking on his property said he did not see his face. He ran off when a motion-detecting light in the man's yard turned on, he said. Suspicious white van One of Nancy's neighbors recalled seeing an unmarked white van parked near her home days before she was abducted. Brett McIntire, 72, reported the vehicle to police after noticing it lacked any company branding, unlike normal work vehicles, he told the New York Post. 'It was a white van, full-sized, with no printing on the sides. It was parked on the street,' he said. He said that he answered a few questions from law enforcement about the sighting. Pima County Sheriff's Office deputies stand outside of Nancy's home on Sunday Doorbell camera and home security system Investigators revealed that Nancy's doorbell camera was disconnected at 1:47 am on February 1. They said that her home's surveillance software detected movement at 2:12 am. There is no video from the detected motion, so it is unclear if it was a person, an animal or something else. Savannah has expressed concerns about her mother's health in captivity Pacemaker Nancy's pacemaker - a small, battery-operated device inserted under someone's skin to regulate their heartbeat - disconnected from its monitoring app at 2:28 am on February 1. The elderly woman's state of health has added another layer of urgency to the investigation. 'Shes 84 years old,' Savannah said in a February 4 video plea. 'Her health, her heart is fragile. She lives in constant pain. She is without any medicine. She needs it to survive. She needs it not to suffer.' Police said that blood was food on Nancy's porch Blood on her porch Police discovered blood on the front porch of Nancy's $1 million home. Sheriff Chris Nano later confirmed that the DNA matched hers. Law enforcement officials claimed that there were 'blood drops' leading from the doorway of the house to the driveway. Other DNA evidence is still being analyzed and/or has not produced significant leads in the investigation. A Circle K in Tucson said it is cooperating with investigators who were tipped off about a vehicle of interest 'Vehicle of interest' at a gas station Investigators were seen at a Circle K in Tucson on Friday after reportedly receiving a tip about a 'vehicle of interest' in connection with Nancy's disappearance. A spokesperson for the gas station told the Daily Mail in a statement that it was 'assisting law enforcement' in its search. They said the vehicle was identified through a 'tip,' and the store has provided investigators with access to surveillance video. It is unclear why the vehicle appeared to be connected to the disappearance. Investigators were seen on the roof of Nancy's home on Friday Camera investigators initially missed Detectives scoured the roof of Nancy's home on Friday evening and reportedly recovered a security camera they had missed in previous searches. Roughly a dozen law enforcement vehicles were seen at the home throughout the day. During this search, they also towed a dark SUV from Nancy's garage. A law enforcement officer used a pole to search a manhole on Nancy's property on Sunday Septic tank On Sunday, Pima County investigators were seen using a pole to check inside a septic tank behind Nancy's house. Former SWAT team captain Josh Schirard told the Daily Mail: 'A lot of people forget that having a septic tank means waste water doesn't go into a city sewer, it goes into the tank. 'So, somebody may have flushed something thinking that would get rid of it, but instead it would actually just be deposited in the septic tank. It is a possibility that [investigators] are now trying to make sure that there's nothing in there that could indicate any kind of guilt.' Investigators carried out a late-night search of Savannah Guthrie's sister Annie's home late Saturday night Probe of Annie's house Detectives searched the home of Annie and Cioni - where Nancy was visiting on the night she disappeared - on Saturday evening. It is unclear what investigators collected from the scene, but they were seen walking in and out of the home multiple times. An official was seen carrying a silver suitcase and a brown bag out of the house. Another was wearing blue gloves. Tracy Walder, a former CIA and FBI special agent, told PEOPLE: 'All that white case is - is evidence processing tools. The brown bag is for evidence. 'The back and forth is of course odd and we dont see that a lot.' Ransom letters News stations have received purported ransom notes demanding funds from Nancy's loved ones for her safe return. KOLD was reportedly the first outlet to receive a letter from people claiming to have captured Nancy. News Director Jessica Bobula told NewsNation that the station was sent the note last Monday around 5 pm. KOLD immediately sent the notice to the FBI and did not report on it until authorities issued a statement. The first deadline set was for Thursday at 5 pm. It is unclear what those demands were. Bobula said that the outlet received a second message on Friday around 11:45 am. It did not contain any further demands or provide any proof of life. KOLD anchor Mary Coleman wrote on social media that this note came from a different IP address than the first. But both used software to conceal the sender's identity, she explained. Savannah released a video message to her missing mom Nancy's captors, telling them her family has 'received your message' KGUN 9 has also come forward, claiming that the outlet and several others received a message demanding $6 million in Bitcoin by Monday at 5 pm local time. The note reportedly threatens the 84-year-old's life if her loved ones do not hand over the hefty sum by the deadline. 'We received your message and we understand,' Savannah, sitting between her two siblings while holding their hands, said in the video shared on her Instagram page. 'We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us and we will pay.' Savannah did not share details about the communication her family received nor the demands that she agreed to pay to the abductors. Authorities have not publicly confirmed the validity of any of the ransom letters. Federal authorities released surveillance footage on Tuesday showing a masked suspect at Nancy's home the night she went missing Surveillance footage On Tuesday the FBI released footage captured on Nancy's doorbell camera showing an armed intruder approaching her porch and tampering with the device. The suspect was seen clad in a ski mask and gloves as he tore the mother-of-three's Nest doorbell camera on the morning she disappeared. The device was missing by the time sheriff's deputies arrived that morning. So far the authorities have given no clue as to the person's identity if it is even known by them. A Chinese-run factory in Ohio that has been accused of benefiting from undocumented workers is undercutting its US competition. In Moraine, a city in the Dayton metropolitan area nestled between Columbus and Cincinnati, Fuyao Glass America moved into a closed General Motors factory in 2016 with the help of taxpayer money. Fuyao is a Chinese glassmaking giant that supplies various car companies. Its Ohio plant was meant to help re-energize the US's withering domestic automotive industry. But its rivals have said that they cannot compete with the Chinese company's use of unfair business and labor practices. In 2024, federal authorities raided the Fuyao Glass America plant in Moraine along with a dozen affiliated businesses, accusing them of employing undocumented workers. The company's prices, estimated to be about 10 percent lower than those of its competitors, threaten an American glassmaking factory that has been operating since the 1950s. Vitro, the firm that owns the factory in Crestline, Ohio, has been considering closing the facility for the past year, putting 250 American jobs at risk. The company announced plans to close the plant at the end of 2026, but last month, employees were told that it would continue operating. The Fuyao Glass America plant, located in Ohio and operated by the Chinese company Fuyao, is undercutting US competition Fuyao has been accused of benefiting from employing undocumented workers. Employees are pictured working in the company's Ohio factory in 2016, the year it opened Fuyao Glass America moved into a closed General Motors plant, and it was meant to help revamp America's withering domestic automotive industry Fuyao's low prices are threatening a competing glassmaking factory owned by the American company Vitro in Crestline, Ohio, that has been operating since the 1950s Even so, the factory's future remains deeply threatened, and the loss of 250 jobs would be a heavy blow to Crestline, a small town with a population of just 4,500. Since 2019, Vitro has closed three of its auto-glass factories in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Indiana. The company has cited Chinese competition as one of the main reasons for those closures. The threat to American businesses was likely unforeseen, as when Fuyao moved into Ohio a decade ago, it was welcomed by state officials, including the governor at the time, John Kasich. When the company expanded its Moraine location in 2020, it was once again supported by Kasich's successor, Governor Mike DeWine, and then-Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted. Chinese investment in US manufacturing is also generally supported by the Trump administration, despite ongoing trade tensions with Beijing. At a meeting of the Detroit Economic Club last month, the president said: 'If they want to come in and build a plant and hire you and hire your friends and your neighbors, thats great, I love that. Let China come in.' But Vitros head of automotive glass, Carlos Bernal, told the Wall Street Journal that the presence of Chinese automotive firms in the US 'threatens the safety and security of domestic supply chains.' The US government has accused Fuyao and its affiliate businesses of creating a system to import illegal workers, house them and transport them to various factories. Fuyao's opening and expansion were supported by Ohio officials. The state's governor, Mike DeWine (center left), and then-Lieutenant Governor, Jon Husted (center right), at the factory's expansion in 2020 alongside Fuyao Chairman Tak Wong (left) Chinese investment in American manufacturing is generally supported by Trump and his administration The Fuyao Moraine plant's manufacturing and assembly floor. Federal authorities raided the factory and more than a dozen affiliated businesses in 2024 According to a civil forfeiture complaint filed by federal authorities last year, the US accused Fuyao of spending $126 million on the scheme, though no one has been criminally charged in the case. The complaint alleged that the affiliated companies were created to 'conceal the multi-million-dollar income generated as a result of the business owners conspiring to harbor, transport, and employ a workforce made in part of illegal aliens.' The complaint also noted that some of the employees interrogated by law enforcement agents said they were trafficked across the US-Mexico border. Nearly all of those directly employed by Fuyao had documentation to work in the US, but many of the employees at the company's affiliates who were named in the investigation did not show up for work on the day of the raid, the complaint alleged. None of those absent workers had proper documentation to work in the country, the complaint also said. Stella Zhang, a Fuyao spokesman, told the Wall Street Journal that all of the company's employees in the US were authorized to work in the country and that the vetting process for affiliate hires has been revamped. Zhang said the federal investigation was targeting only the affiliates. Fuyao has denied any wrongdoing and has said its competitive prices result from using the same production strategies and economies of scale that have made China a manufacturing powerhouse. More small boat migrants have arrived during Sir Keir Starmers time in Downing Street than under any other prime minister. With 219 migrants reaching the UK on Sunday, Sir Keirs total hit 65,922, overtaking the previous high of 65,811 under Boris Johnson. The record under Sir Keir has been reached in just over 19 months, compared with three years under Mr Johnson. The Channel crisis has now entered its ninth year. The first small boat crossing was recorded on January 31, 2018, and by the end of that year then home secretary Sajid Javid declared it a major incident. The total number of migrants to have reached Britain now stands at more than 193,000. One of Sir Keir's first acts in office after the 2024 general election was scrapping the previous governments Rwanda asylum deal. The programme had been designed to deter crossings and save lives by sending migrants to the east African country to claim asylum there rather than here. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Labours flagship policy is a one in, one out deal with France which allows a small number of migrants to be sent back across the Channel. However, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood admitted to MPs last week that the deal has obviously not dented the numbers yet. She also revealed that so far 367 migrants have been brought into the UK under the reciprocal terms of the treaty and only 305 have been removed. Migrants disembark from the UK Border Force catamaran, Hurricane, at Ramsgate port in Kent earlier today The scheme has probably not affected migrants decisions to cross the Channel, she said, and they may well be banking on it not working or not being able to be scaled up. She also declined to give a commitment that Labours asylum reforms will start to see a fall in the number of small boat arrivals by next year. There were 41,472 small boat crossings last year compared with 36,816 in 2024. Asked whether she could confidently say numbers would go down by this time next year, Ms Mahmood said Labours reforms would take some time to come into effect, adding: 'I can't guarantee I'm going to be in that position. When PM Sir Keir Starmer and Mr Macron announced their one in, one out deal last summer it was suggested it would see 50 migrants a week sent back to France. In fact, it has averaged about a dozen per week. It is being operated as a pilot scheme and the agreement is due to expire at the end of June. The treaty which has allowed the 'one in, one out' scheme is unlikely to be renegotiated at that stage, experts suggest, because France will be looking ahead to its presidential election next spring. A once-liberal author revealed how woke mobs - like the one that harassed staff at a yoga studio over an ICE sign - destroyed Minneapolis and drove her to flee the city. Novelist Ann Bauer detailed how she watched the home city that she once adored descend into politically-driven chaos. In an essay in the Free Press, she described how hordes of righteous far-lefters shaming people for their opinions has become the norm. Bauer and her family ultimately grew fed up with the drama. They moved to Kentucky in late 2025 to launch a publishing platform called Storyaliz with her husband John Gateley in Covington. The 59-year-old writer said she was not surprised by the viral video of revved-up Karens confronting employees at a CorePower Yoga studio in Northeast Minneapolis. The clash occurred on February 1 after the studio apparently removed a sign that an instructor had placed in the window condemning ICE. Once customers learned that the instructor was quitting because the sign had been taken down, they stormed the lobby to give the women behind the front desk a piece of their minds. The employees were berated for several minutes. Following the verbal attack, everyone in the class was suspended for 90 days. Ann Bauer is pictured with her husband John Gateley A mass of yoga studio customers gathered in the lobby to confront the two women behind the desk for CorePower's supposed lack of support for its anti-ICE instructors The mob's ringleader, Heather Anderson, was banned from the studio for life. Bauer used to attend that very CorePower. When footage from the encounter was shared online, her friends messaged her asking if she had seen it. 'Oh, yeah, Ive seen this,' Bauer wrote in her Free Press essay. 'Not this particular scene but several like it, and all the ones that led up to it.' She and John moved from Boston to Minneapolis in 2014, she said. At first they were over the moon with their decision to move to where she grew up. 'The city was close to perfect, but there were paradoxes,' she confessed. 'Mostly white communities talked nonstop about social justice, yet the Twin Cities had some of the for black residents - in terms of education, income, homeownership, and crime.' She described the 2016 fatal shooting of Philando Castile, 31, at the hands of a police officer as a tipping point. Bauer said that she was outraged by his killing, but the aftermath made her 'uncomfortable.' Join the debate How do you think political activism is affecting community life in cities like Minneapolis? Protestors clashed with police during a May 2020 protest in Minneapolis The two employees looked taken aback by the level of anger in the crowd at the yoga studio Ultimately, she felt those around her were overly performative in their wokeness without contributing to any real system change. And she was chastised for her silence. Bauer said the city spiraled out of control again when Donald Trump was elected for his first term. She was admittedly not a fan of him, but she noticed it was pretty much all anyone could talk about. Bauer felt like even more of an outcast when the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020. She spoke out against Governor Tim Waltz's handling of the situation, school shutdowns and vaccine mandates. Working as a brand consultant at the time, she said that she lost all her clients because of her beliefs. George Floyd's murder by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in May 2020 brought even more unrest to the city, she said. She recalled the riots and looting that followed as 'the city burned.' The Cincinnati skyline is seen from the Roebling Bridge in Covington, Kentucky Ann and John launched a publishing firm in Covington 'Those who crowed loudest about justice went home to private security teams,' she asserted. Bauer returned to CorePower once Covid restrictions eased - but it was not the same studio she once regarded as a safe haven. Instructors were bringing politics into the classes that were supposed be a peaceful break from the outside world. Bauer spoke to leadership about it, and they only used her concerns against her, she claimed. Her instructors started giving her the cold shoulder and staffers gave her dirty looks when she came in for class. She moved to Kentucky a few months later, she said, describing the charming Covington area as politically 'purple, leaning on the moderate side of blue.' Covington is located directly on the Kentucky-Ohio border, offering stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline. The Daily Mail has reached out to CorePower for comment on Bauer's claims. This is the moment a nursery worker was arrested after being caught sexually abusing children in his care. Nathan Bennett is facing jail after being convicted of eight charges including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration, relating to five children aged two or three. The 30-year-old previously admitted 13 other charges relating to four of the five victims, who were aged two at the time at the Partou King Street nursery in Bristol. Concerns had been raised by parents and staff about Bennett's behaviour towards the children in his care in February last year, Bristol Crown Court was told. On February 26, nursery manager Victoria 'Vera' Tutton viewed CCTV which showed him putting his hands down the trousers of a child and immediately sent him home. Avon and Somerset Police launched an investigation, leading to Bennett's arrest which they revealed in bodycam footage released today. The nursery was later closed, but families have called for answers on 'how the safeguarding systems in place' at the nursery 'failed so catastrophically'. Virginia Cornwall, prosecuting, described the case as 'every parent's nightmare'. Nathan Bennett, 30, was found guilty of multiple sexual offences against children in his care Avon and Somerset Constabulary released footage today of Bennett's arrest in February 2025 Bennett began working at the nursery in July 2024 and told staff he was autistic, though jurors heard he has never been formally diagnosed with the condition. He was noted by staff to sit children on his lap for lengthy periods of time, wear a pair of trousers with holes in the crotch area, and seemed 'territorial' over certain toddlers and their parents, the court heard. Nursery practitioner Elizabeth Burton told the court that Bennett had a 'jealous attachment' with five children and would 'take control of them'. During the trial, video interviews with two of the children in the case - referred to only as Child A and Child E - were played to the jury. Child E's mother also gave evidence, telling how her son had demonstrated how he had been abused at his nursery. 'I got him to stop doing it. I asked him when did that happen. He said it happened at nursery,' she said. Giving evidence, Bennett said he was 'emulating' what was done to him as a child and denied having a sexual attraction to children. The defendant, of Corston, Bath, was found guilty by the jury of: Two charges of raping a child under 13. Four charges of the sexual assault of a child under 13. Two charges of assault of a child under 13 by penetration. He previously pleaded guilty to 13 other charges. They were: Eight charges of sexual assault of a child under 13. Four charges of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. One charge of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. Judge William Hart remanded Bennett in custody until he is sentenced on March 16. 'I will order a pre-sentence report that should address length of sentence and the question of dangerousness,' he said. The arrest of Bennett in Bristol was caught on bodycam video and released by the force today 'I will remand you into custody, where you have been for some time and rightly so, until March 16 when I will sentence you for what will inevitably be a very long sentence of custody.' The judge thanked the jury for their careful consideration of a 'distressing case'. 'These are the youngest children I have had to deal with in many, many years,' he told them. 'It would have been impossible for a child such as Child E to give evidence in court until very recently. 'So, he is probably the youngest child to have been a witness in a trial here, if not in the whole of the country.' The judge told the barristers in the case that Bennett's 'predilections are very difficult to understand'. Families involved in the case said they wanted answers to how Bennett was able to commit his crimes. In a statement issued by law firm Leigh Day, they said: 'We are devastated by the horrific abuse children have suffered at the hands of someone whom we all trusted to care for them. 'Nothing can begin to explain the shock, anger and heartbreak we feel - or the profound and lasting impact we are sure this will have on families. 'The children were innocent and completely vulnerable; they were in a place that should have been safe. Bennett was convicted of charges relating to children at Bristol's Partou King Street nursery 'We want answers. We want to understand how someone like Nathan Bennett was able to work with young children, what checks were made, and how the safeguarding systems in place at Partou King Street nursery failed so catastrophically. 'We hope that, as well as securing justice through the criminal process, the wider issues around safeguarding and protection at the nursery will be properly reviewed so that nothing like this can ever happen again.' Leigh Day partner Andrew Lord, who represents a wider group of families affected by Bennett's abuse, said: 'This is an utterly shocking case. The seriousness of these offences against very young, defenceless children cannot be overstated. 'As lawyers specialising in abuse claims, we have significant experience supporting families through the aftermath of child sexual abuse. 'Even so, the concerns raised by the families in this matter about the Partou's safeguarding practices are profound. 'They feel that the systems that should have been in place to protect their children simply did not work.' Temporary Detective Inspector Lucy Ford, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: 'Nathan Bennett was trusted to care for children but committed sexual offences against the very young children at his place of work. 'An investigation involving such young children was deeply challenging and distressing for all concerned.' An NSPCC spokeswoman said: 'Bennett abused his position of trust at the nursery in the most shocking and appalling way imaginable. 'Child sexual abuse can have a lifelong impact on children and their loved ones, and our thoughts are with all the families caught up in this horrific case.' A pensioner has admitted stabbing the uncle of Repair Shop star Jay Blades to death with a large kitchen knife after a long running row about their shared alleyway. Derrick Brown, 74, attacked 73-year-old Richard Brathwaite and his wife Annetta Brathwaite, 71, with a kitchen knife on their road in Wembley, north London, on March 21 ,2024. Brown, who is said to be suffering from early onset dementia, admitted manslaughter due to diminished responsibility today at Southwark Crown Court. Mr Blades, 55, known for hosting the BBC show The Repair Shop, revealed his beloved uncle had been killed in an Instagram post. The violent attack arose after a long running neighbour dispute over items being left in a shared alleyway - and ended with a chilling text from Brown to his wife saying: 'I've stabbed Richard, I've just had enough of them.' The police found Mr Brathwaite bleeding and were unable to save him, the court heard, while his wife suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Brown was not on the scene. CCTV and ring doorbell footage showed Mr Brathwaite screaming for help and shouting murder, while Mrs Brathwaite was allegedly punched by Brown as he held the knife, cutting her head and face. Prosecutor Deanna Heer, KC, said: 'Another neighbour went out to find the defendant on the street with a knife saying "I've had enough, they're not listening, they need to move their things I'm going to kill them".' Richard Brathwaite, 73, (pictured) was fatally attacked by his neighbour Derrick Brown with a large kitchen knife Mr Brathwaite is the uncle of Jay Blades (pictured), known for hosting the BBC show The Repair Shop After the attack Brown texted his wife, 'I've stabbed Richard, I've just had enough of them,' and she told him to go to the police station, where he was arrested. While in the police station, Brown said he knew he had pulled a knife on a man and that he experienced 'enough and put up with 25 years of it'. Blood was found on his clothing and trainers, while a blood stained knife was found in his kitchen sink. Brown had earlier denied murder and wounding Mrs Brathwaite with intent but admitted unlawful wounding today. He also admitted possession of knife. Judge Anupama Thompson ordered further psychiatric reports on Brown, who will say in custody ahead of sentencing on March 18 2026. A Utah woman has been killed in a freak accident which unfolded moments after she sought safety from a brutal storm during a music festival, a lawsuit has revealed. Ava Ahlander, 23, evacuated the Redwest Country Music Festival in Salt Lake City with a crowd of other concertgoers after the severe weather hit on October 11. The American Fork native ran to her car in a nearby parking lot, which was located by the Kier Construction Co. site, and sat inside as she sheltered from 60mph winds. However, after finding refuge in the vehicle, she briefly stepped out and was immediately struck down by a wooden plank which fell from 30 feet above her. Ahlander was left severely injured from the impact, and she died from her injuries two days later. Now, her heartbroken parents have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the construction company for 'creating hazards' that led to their daughter's death, according to the legal filing seen by the Daily Mail. The complaint, filed on Wednesday in Utah Third District Court, alleges that Kier Construction Co. failed to 'remedy or remove hazards from the construction site' before the festival took place at Utah State Fairpark that day. Her parents, Richard Ahlander and Mary Harrison, are seeking relief for claims, including wrongful death, liability, and negligence from the company. The music festival was not named in the lawsuit. Eric Olson, the family's lawyer, said it was the construction company's responsibility to ensure the area was secure at all times. Ava Ahlander, 23, tragically died on October 11, 2025, after she was hit in the head by a flying wooden plank while attending the Redwest country music festival in Salt Lake City, Utah During the music festival, attendees were instructed to rush to safety as extreme weather conditions arrived. Ahlander ran to her car, but when she briefly got out, she was hit with the flying debris Olson told The Salt Lake Tribune 'construction sites that are in a populated area with people next door, whether its walking by on the sidewalk or on a neighboring property, theyve got to be properly maintained and protected, so that the public doesnt get hurt.' Ahlander's parents are seeking damages for an undisclosed amount that is set to be determined at trial. Those damages would include the cost of medical and funeral expenses. Other than getting justice for their beloved daughter, Olson said her family wants to make sure this doesn't happen to anyone else. 'Its something that should have never happened and there are code requirements ... that specifically require contractors to take these sort of precautions,' he told the outlet. Olson added: 'The family doesnt think this ever should have happened. They dont ever want it to happen again.' The Daily Mail has contacted Kier Construction Co. and Olson for comment. Ahlander has been described as 'a beautiful soul whose kindness, warmth and adventurous spirit touched everyone around her,' a GoFundMe page created after her death stated. Now her heartbroken parents have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the construction company for 'creating hazards' that led to their daughter's death Ahlander's death came after she was hit by a wooden plank being used by Kier Construction Co. site. The company's headquarters is pictured above. The Daily Mail has contacted the firm The page also revealed that she donated her organs after she passed, something her family said was her 'final act of generosity that truly reflects her caring nature and desire to help those in need.' The fundraiser has since been paused, but more than $34,000 was raised to help her family with medical bills, funeral expenses, a memorial celebration of life, and counselling. Any leftover donations were donated to charity in Ahlander's name, her family wrote, adding that it extended 'her legacy of compassion.' According to her uncle, Bobby, Ahlander was an 'avid concert goer' who flew in from Seattle, Washington, to see the festival's headliner, Post Malone. She grew up in American Fork, about 30 minutes away from Salt Lake City, before relocating to the Seattle area, according to her obituary. 'As you can imagine, this was absolutely devastating news and I am grief stricken,' Bobby wrote on Facebook after her death. 'Ava was an absolute delight of a human being. Everyone loved her. She had the best smile.' Ahlander has been described as 'a beautiful soul whose kindness, warmth and adventurous spirit touched everyone around her' The Redwest Country Music Festival was set to take place from Friday, October 10, to Sunday, October 12. Headliners, including Post Malone, Noah Kahan, and Kacey Musgraves, were supposed to take the stage before it was cancelled on the second day. Severe storms resulted in organizers halting the highly-anticipated event just before 5.15pm that day. They urged festivalgoers to take their belongings and find shelter, Fox 13 previously reported. Winds of up to 60mph were reported as Tropical Storm Priscilla, downgraded from a hurricane, battered areas of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado with heavy rain that weekend. Sir Keir Starmer insisted that he has no plans to resign from his post as Prime Minister during a meeting with Labour MPs. The PM has faced calls to stand down from his role in recent days after the scandal involving former peer Lord Peter Mandelson last week. Starmer addressed his party on Monday evening as he bids to shore up his position and was greeted with a standing ovation from MPs on his arrival. He is said to have answered some 44 questions during the hour-long meeting, where he defiantly insisted: 'Every fight I've been in, I've won. I am not prepared to walk away.' It came as Health Secretary Wes Streeting revealed texts between him and Mandelson in an attempt to assure the public that he has 'nothing to hide'. The Ilford MP discussed his election fears, criticisms of the government and his thoughts on the Palestine conflict in the messages. Follow the latest updates on Keir Starmer's future in Downing Street Chilling footage shows Ghislaine Maxwell as she pleaded the Fifth and refused to answer questions over Jeffrey Epstein at a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill. The jailed British socialite appeared virtually before lawmakers on the House Oversight Committee for less than an hour on Monday. Epstein's longtime girlfriend was deposed as part of the bipartisan congressional investigation into the Justice Department's prosecution and handling of the Epstein case. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence in Texas after she was convicted of trafficking young girls to Epstein in 2021. She is the only associate of his who has been jailed. Footage showed the 64-year-old in her beige prison garb with a pair of round glasses from across a table. After Maxwell was asked her first question about her relationship with Epstein, she set the tone of how all her answers would follow: 'I would like to answer your question, but on the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer this question and any related questions.' My habeas petition is pending in the Southern District of New York. I therefore invoke my right to silence under the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution.' When confirming if she was declining to answer the question, she robotically replied without any emotion that she was, in fact, invoking her Fifth Amendment right. Maxwell refused to provide information to the House Oversight Committee on Monday regarding her relationship with Jeffrey Epstein Ghislaine Maxwell is seen pleading the fifth as she faces questions from the House Oversight Committee in her beige prison garb Documents show that Epstein had access to numerous powerful political figures, including former president Bill Clinton Similar to a broken record, she repeated that she was invoking her Fifth Amendment right to every question asked. Maxwell refused to answer several questions, including: 'Ms.Maxwell, did you at anytime play any role in Jeffrey Epstein's activities involving recruitment, grooming, or trafficking of young women or girls?' 'Ms.Maxwell, have you ever coerced, directed, or otherwise instructed any young woman or girl to provide sexual favors to Mr.Epstein or any other individual?' 'Ms.Maxwell, did you and Jeffery Epstein attempt to surround yourselves with influential individuals to curry favor and shield yourself from potential scrutiny?' 'Ms.Maxwell, can you please provide us with all the names of other additional co-conspirators for crimes perpetrated by you and Jeffery Epstein?' Republican Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna said ahead of the hearing that they expected Maxwell to plead the Fifth. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said he expected Maxwell to plead the Fifth Amendment Her attorney reportedly told the committee that she would not answer questions unless she received clemency from President Donald Trump. Maxwell has come under new scrutiny after more than three million documents related to the prosecution of Epstein were released. The documents show that the pedophile financier had access to a large network of powerful business leaders and political figures. Maxwell was initially subpoenaed by the Oversight Committee last year, but her attorneys told lawmakers she would not answer questions regarding Epstein. Comer noted that the full video of Maxwell's testimony will be released. Trump has not indicated he would provide clemency or a pardon for Epstein's imprisoned madam. The Daily Mail reached out to the White House for comment. Comer plans to schedule additional depositions with former president Bill Clinton and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton. The Clintons initially refused to comply with the subpoena, but after Comer threatened them with contempt of Congress charges, the couple agreed to testify before the committee. Comers team had spent months negotiating with Maxwells attorney to secure her appearance. Comer delayed her initially planned August deposition after her attorney requested she wait for a Supreme Court ruling on Maxwell's appeal. Join the debate Does pleading the Fifth undermine the search for truth? Epstein was known to rub shoulders with some of the wealthiest and most powerful figures in the world, including Bill Gates The Supreme Court declined to hear Maxwell's case back in October. Maxwell's decision to plead the Fifth comes months after she spoke candidly about her relationship with Epstein to the Deputy Attorney General. She was moved to a minimum-security prison in Texas after speaking with Todd Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal lawyer, last year. Trump was a longtime friend of Epstein's in the 1990s and early 2000s but expelled him from his Mar-a-Lago club for being a 'creep'. The President has never been accused of any wrongdoing. Calls for Sir Keir Starmer to quit Downing Street have raised the prospect of him becoming the shortest-serving Labour prime minister of all time. In the biggest crisis of his premiership, the Prime Minister is being told to resign by senior figures within his own party in the wake of the Peter Mandelson scandal. Sir Keir has been severely weakened by the exit of two key aides - his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney and communications chief Tim Allan - within 24 hours. If he joins them in departing No10 himself, it would mark a dramatic downfall for Sir Keir since his general election landslide in July 2024. He has so far served one year and 219 days as PM, meaning - if he departs in the near future - he would be Labour's shortest-serving premier of all time by some distance. Gordon Brown, who left office in May 2010, served a total of two years and 318 days in Downing Street after succeeding Sir Tony Blair. Sir Tony is the longest-serving Labour PM of all time, having spent 10 years and 56 days in charge of the country and winning three general elections. James Callaghan served three years and 29 days as Labour PM in the late 1970s, while Clement Attlee spent six years and 92 days in No10 immediately after the Second World War. Harold Wilson and Ramsay MacDonald also spent more than six years as PM, but their tenures were spread over more than one term as premier. Your browser does not support iframes. Wilson was PM for a total of seven years and 279 days, having first served in Downing Street between October 1964 and 1970. He then returned for a second spell between March 1974 and April 1976. MacDonald was PM for just over nine months between January 1924 to November 1924, before he returned as premier between June 1929 and June 1935. The shortest-serving PM of any party is Liz Truss, who spent just 49 days in power in September and October 2022. Her successor, Rishi Sunak, spent one year and 254 days as PM before losing the 2024 general election to Sir Keir. Sir Keir's premiership has been plunged into crisis following fresh revelations about Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The PM has said 'sorry for having believed Mandelson's lies' about his links to the paedophile financier and for naming Mandelson as US ambassador in February 2025. But senior Labour figures are continuing to question Sir Keir's judgement and his political future. In a shattering blow to the PM on Monday, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for Sir Keir to quit. 'The distraction needs to end and the leadership in Downing Street has to change,' he said at a press conference. Sir Keir's Cabinet attempted to rally around him in the wake of Mr Sarwar's comments, with senior ministers posting supportive messages on social media on Monday afternoon. A leading UK vet has warned of a new 'wonder drug' after reports have linked it to the premature deaths of hundreds of dogs across the US. Dr Nick Thompson, a global expert in dog nutrition, has urged other vets to 'do their research before injecting their pets with the controversial drug. He called on British vets to examine all the facts available that show 'there's significant damage being done to a significant number of dogs' receiving Librela. The drug, also known as Solensia for cats, is a monthly injection that helps relieve pain from osteoarthritis. Librela has been labelled a 'wonder drug', with five-star reviews calling the medicine liquid gold and a game changer for dogs who suffer from joint pain. Many describe their pets being able to run and play like they did as puppies after years of suffering but some owners have found their pets suffered serious adverse effects. However, campaigners say many more are suffering horrendous side effects, including severe neurological issues, and death. Owners are reporting their dogs are suffering seizures, hind limb collapse, urinary incontinence, ataxia (affecting co-ordination and balance) and neurological issues - after having just one or two doses of the drug. Some report having their beloved pets euthanised because they became so ill after taking the drug. Dr Nick Thompson has urged other vets to 'do their research before injecting their pets with Librela Dr Thompson, of Holistic Vet Ltd, said: 'Librela would have maximum clinical effect in the most painful areas affected by osteoarthritis. 'But as a systemic treatment, one that's injected into a dog's system, it has the potential to affect many other tissues and parts of the body too. 'This could account for the range of neurological issues being reported by owners. 'In theory, the nerves serving any part of a dog's body could be adversely affected by the drug. 'Vets and owners need to be fully informed so they can decide if it's a risk worth taking in their specific circumstances.' Nearly 14,000 dogs suffered adverse effects after taking Librela, according to latest figures from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US between May 2023 and June 2025. Of those, 2,300 pets died after taking the drug. The FDA sent a letter to US vets in December 2024 in which it listed Librela as having serious side effects including ataxia, seizures, neurological issues, urinary incontinence and in some cases death or euthanasia. Dr Thompson added: 'This FDA list is based on recorded adverse reactions which include the same side effects as being reported by UK dog owners. 'It is the same drug and the same manufacturer but vets in this country are not privy to the same adverse reaction information. This seems both inconsistent and alarming.' Campaigner Liz Temple, of Librela/Solensia The Truth UK (Lenivia and Portela), says many pet owners are being told by vets that Librela is safe and a 'wonder drug'. Angel Snowball pictured with a photo of her dog Jack, whose death she blames on Librela She said: 'On the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) website here in the UK Librela is listed as "generally safe", with "rare side effects". We do not agree. 'Our feedback from owners shows that for hundreds of dogs, it is a killer. Many vets don't even advise of the possible side effects listed on the drug data sheet. 'Owners tell us they would never have consented to their dog having Librela if they'd known the real risks. 'Once Librela is in a dog's system, there is no antidote. At best, it takes months to clear, at worst the side effects are so severe and ongoing that the kindest thing is to put our much-loved pets to sleep. 'An owner cannot give informed consent if they are not fully informed. This issue needs rectifying urgently by the VMD.' Dr Thompson added: 'It is fantastically naive to say any drug is safe and has no side effects. That is nonsense. Librela and Solensia have a lot more side effects proportionally than a much more benign drug such as paracetamol. 'I'd urge UK vets to do their own research and acquaint themselves with the US FDA adverse reaction sheet and ensure they pass it on to their clients.' One Gloucestershire vet, who asked not to be named, said: 'The majority of vets are too busy and under too much pressure to read the drug data sheet information. If a drug rep tells them Librela is "safe", vets tend to just accept that without doing their own checks.' Angela's 'healthy and happy' 11-year-old Springer Spaniel, Jack, died seven weeks after taking the drug Liz Temple said she had been contacted by hundreds of distressed owners across the UK whose pets had suffered the same awful reactions from Librela. She said: 'This should be ringing very loud alarm bells within the veterinary industry. 'When owners do their own research, they discover the "new and mystery" illnesses that suddenly befall their pets are actually Librela side effects, often neurological. This link is often dismissed by vets.' Campaigners are calling on the VMD to follow its US counterpart and issue a letter to UK vets, giving the full list of Librela adverse reactions, including death and euthanasia. The group also wants owners to receive an information sheet detailing the potential adverse reactions before agreeing to their dog receiving the drug. Ms Temple said: 'The guilt, the grief and the anger that owners feel once they know the truth is tearing people apart. 'They feel as if they've killed their own dog. We've called on the VMD to update its information as per the US FDA but our plea is falling on deaf ears.' Angela Snowball, from Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, said her 11-year-old Springer Spaniel, Jack, was happy and healthy except for osteoarthritis in one hind leg. Librela injections can be purchased online with a prescription for around 100 for two vials She said: 'After Jack's first and only Librela injection, he became paralysed in both back legs and completely incontinent. We tried to ride it out but it became too much for him. 'He died seven weeks later. Jack had so much life left to live. I will never forgive Zoetis for not being honest about this awful drug. 'Librela was a poison that ravaged Jack's little body. I'd never have allowed it to be used if I'd known the risks. I reported it to Zoetis, to the VMD and to my vet.' Helen Lee, of Canvey Island in Essex, enlisted the support of her MP, Dame Rebecca Harris, and lodged a complaint against the VMD after losing her nine-year-old French Bulldog, Frankie. She died in June 2025, just 10 days after her first Librela injection. Helen has repeatedly emailed Zoetis but had no response. She said: 'Frankie went from a dog with osteoarthritis to one with severe neurological problems. She lost the use of her limbs, lost her bladder control and was unaware of anyone or anything around her. 'It was terrible to see her suffering like that. I'm heartbroken. I agreed to her having the drug after being told it was "brilliant".' With fears about Librela growing, a petition on change.org was started by Anne Chambers, of Caithness, Scotland, in January 2025. It followed her dog, Shadow, becoming seriously ill after being treated with the drug. Her petition calls for a ban on the sale and use of the drug in the UK and has now attracted 4,600 signatures. Helen Lee lodged a complaint against the VMD after losing her nine-year-old French Bulldog, Frankie. A VMD spokesperson said: 'We have continuously monitored Librela since it was first authorised and take all reports of adverse events seriously. 'Based on all available evidence, we are satisfied that the overall benefits of Librela continue to outweigh the risks for the vast majority of dogs treated with this medicine.' In a statement, Zoetis UK said: 'We continue to have full confidence in the safety and efficacy of Librela and Solensia for the alleviation of pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. 'Since its launch in Europe in 2021, more than 34 million doses of Librela and 11 million doses of Solensia have been distributed globally as of December 2025 and no single reported symptom or outcome has been classified as more than 'rare to very rare' under VMD standards. 'VMD defines that as between 1 and 10 cases per 10,000 treated animals (rare), or fewer than 1 per 10,000 (very rare). These reports do not confirm causality, and many involve dogs and cats with complex medical histories. 'Each country's regulatory authorities independently determine the content and format of product labels based on local requirements. 'Zoetis has worked closely with regulators in all markets to ensure that product information is accurate, up to date, and aligned with these local requirements. 'We take all reports of potential adverse events seriously. Zoetis remains committed to rigorous monitoring, transparent reporting to global regulatory agencies, and ongoing engagement with veterinarians and pet owners to support informed decision making rooted in scientific evidence.' The serial liar who made hideous and repugnant claims about a murderous VIP paedophile ring at Westminster has been released from prison after serving less than half of his 18-year sentence, the Daily Mail can reveal. Carl Nick Beech, 58, was smuggled out of jail last week and taken to an undisclosed probation hostel in the West Country. The move, designed to help free up space in Britains overcrowded prisons, will infuriate victims of the paedophile. Beech made fools out of Scotland Yard detectives, BBC News journalists and former Labour deputy leader Tom (now Lord) Watson, who all fell for his lies before the Mail exposed him as a fraud. His early release will also intensify scrutiny of Labours law and order policies amid claims the Government is too soft on criminals. In a statement confirming his release, the Ministry of Justice did not address whether Beech has now admitting lying about the VIP abuse ring. Including time spent on remand before his trial in the summer of 2019, Beech served just seven years and four months of his 18-year sentence. Carl Nick Beech, 58, was smuggled out of jail last week and taken to an undisclosed probation hostel in the West Country Beech made hideous and repugnant claims about a murderous VIP paedophile ring at Westminster The father-of-one, a former paediatric nurse and chairman of a board of school governors, triggered an unprecedented investigation in 2014 into lurid allegations of child sexual abuse and murder involving politicians, generals and senior figures in the intelligence services. Those falsely accused, including former home secretary Leon Brittan and retired Armed Forces chief Field Marshal Lord Bramall, had their properties raided. One of them former Tory MP Harvey Proctor lost both his home and his job. Former prime minister Sir Edward Heath was also the subject of Beechs far-fetched lies, which included claims he was tortured with wasps and snakes. Police initially only referred to Beech using the pseudonym 'Nick' to protect his identity. His claims that he and others had been sexually abused by a 'VIP ring' in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and that he had witnessed three child murders by members of the same group, featured prominently on BBC News and a rogue, now defunct, investigations website called Exaro. The police investigation, known as Operation Midland, cost 2.5million but by the time it was wound up, not a single arrest had been made. The Metropolitan Police later had to apologise and pay compensation over its handling of the allegations. After his arrest and trial, Beech was sentenced in July 2019 to a total of 18 years in prison. The sentence was made up of 16-and-a-half years for fraud and perverting the course of justice, and 18 months for possession of child abuse images, which came to light after police raided his home. Under the sentencing policy of the previous Conservative government he was previously due for release on October 1, 2027. But following changes later announced by Labour that date was brought forward to this month. Ex-Tory MP Harvey Proctor lost both his home and his job after being falsely accused Retired Armed Forces chief Field Marshal Lord Bramall, had his property raided after being falsely accused The Daily Mail understands that Beech, who has spent much of his prison sentence at Garth jail, a Category B closed prison in Lancashire, was freed last week. He was taken in a van to a hostel in Gloucestershire, where he was living before his exposure as a pathological liar and paedophile. Sentencing vicars son Beech at Newcastle Crown Court in July 2019, Mr Justice Goss described him as 'intelligent, resourceful, manipulative and devious' and said he appeared to have been encouraged by the police's willingness to believe him. There were gasps as the paedophile was told he had acted out of 'financial gain, personal pleasure, malice and attention seeking'. The lengthy jail term heaped more shame on Scotland Yard, its then-chief Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe and one of his sidekicks, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Rodhouse, who was in charge of Operation Midland. The force spent 16 months and millions of pounds probing Beech's 'plainly ridiculous' allegations. In 2014 the Met had publicly described Beech's claims of VIP child sex abuse and murder as 'credible and true'. At the court, the force was heavily criticised in series of harrowing victim statements by Lord Bramall, Mr Proctor, the godson of Sir Edward Heath and Diana Brittan, the widow of former home secretary Leon. Labour peer Lord Watson, who met Beech and publicly urged officers to probe his claims, was also lambasted in testimonies read to Newcastle Crown Court. Ex-PM Sir Edward Heath was also the subject of Beechs far-fetched lies, which included claims he was tortured with wasps and snakes Sir Edward Heath with the late Queen Elizabeth In a heartbreaking statement Lady Brittan said the 'false allegations and smears of the very worst kind' ruined the final weeks of her cancer-stricken husband's life. In her first public comments on the case, she said she felt 'he was caught up in a totally unjustified witchhunt which took its toll on both him and me'. Lady Brittan, who praised the Daily Mail for challenging Beech's claims, described a comment piece by Lord Watson in a Sunday newspaper, a few days after her husband's death in January 2015, as very distressing. 'I was so worried I even had to arrange security for his burial, something no widow should have to do,' she wrote, as she also recalled the trauma of having her two homes raided by police just six weeks after her husband's death in 2015. In a victim statement read to court by his solicitor, D-Day hero Lord Bramall, 95, said: 'In service of my Queen and country, I have done all that has been required of me. 'I can honestly say, however, I was never as badly wounded in all my time in the military as I was by the allegations made by "Nick" that formed the basis of Operation Midland. The statement was written in 2018 because Lord Bramall was unsure he would still be alive when Beech's trial finished. He was too unwell to give evidence and died three months after the liar was jailed. Tony Badenoch KC, prosecuting, said Beech was responsible for 'the cynical manipulation of the criminal justice system on an unprecedented scale and perpetrated with unprecedented cruelty and disregard for others'. Beech enjoyed his 'celebrity' status and contact with politicians, journalists and campaigners and 'derived sexual pleasure by graphically describing the violent sexual abuse of young boys', he added. Mr Justice Goss said: 'No doubt you were encouraged by the apparent willingness at that time from the police to accept your account.' Beechs release was confirmed by the Ministry of Justice. It said in a statement: 'Carl Beechs crimes were shocking and had far-reaching consequences, and our thoughts remain with all those affected. 'Offenders released on licence are subject to strict conditions and can be returned to prison immediately if they breach them.' A Maryland woman was stabbed to death inside her home over the weekend, and her estranged husband turned himself just a couple of hours later. Shortly after 8am on Sunday, the Howard County Police Department responded to a report that 53-year-old Alexander Stephenson had stabbed his wife, Amethyst Stephenson, 47, and fled. Officers quickly made their way to Amethyst's home, a gorgeous $900,000 house nestled in the woods near Ellicott City, just outside of Baltimore. When the officers arrived, she was already dead. The Howard County Police Department told the Daily Mail that she was stabbed multiple times but did not provide more details. Police said that Amethyst was estranged from her husband and that he did not live in the home where she was murdered. Alexander was immediately considered wanted for the fatal stabbing. The Howard County Police Department told the Daily Mail that he turned himself in at 10.30am on the day of the murder at the department's northern district station in Ellicott City. Police also told the Daily Mail that Alexander had self-inflicted wounds to the wrist, but they were non-life-threatening. Amethyst Stephenson, 47, was found stabbed to death in her home on Sunday morning Amethyst's estranged husband, Alexander Stephenson, 53, turned himself in just two hours after police responded to the stabbing. The couple is pictured together in 2024 He was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he remains as of Monday afternoon while being treated and evaluated, the department also said. Police added that Alexander will be booked into the Howard County Detention Center once he is released from the hospital, and he is facing charges of first-degree murder and violation of a protective order. According to court records, the protective order was put into place in January 2026, and the listed reason was 'domestic violence.' The most recent photo of Amethyst and Alexander together was posted on Amethyst's Facebook in July 2025, and a photo from the couple's wedding was posted in May 2022. According to Maryland law, if Alexander is convicted of his first-degree murder charge, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The state banned capital punishment in 2013, and the last execution in Maryland took place in 2005. Shortly after her death, Amethyst's father, Steve Willey, posted about his daughter on Facebook and wrote: 'To folks who knew Amethyst, I hope you find a moment to remember extraordinary things you shared.' Six people close to the family responded, sharing their condolences. The Howard County Police Department said that Amethyst was stabbed multiple times by her estranged husband This photo from Amethyst and Alexander's wedding was posted to Amethyst's Facebook account in May 2022 This photo, which was posted in July, is the most recent picture of the couple on Amethyst's Facebook Shortly after she died, Amethyst's father posted about her on Facebook, and people close to the family shared their condolences 'I am so heartbroken for the both of you. She was a beautiful light and Ill never forget her radiant smile,' one person commented. 'She gave me some great life advice. I'll have to find her message and share,' another wrote. 'Our hearts are with you, Steve, and with Martj,' a third wrote. A Manchester NHS Trust has advertised an 'exciting new job opportunity' for a close-relative marriage nurse - to help cousins who are having children together. The role - now closed for applications - was shared earlier this year in a bid to enable 'informed reproductive decision making'. The ideal candidate is described as fluent in Urdu and someone who 'values diversity and difference'. Last month new guidance from the health service said concerns about the risks of congenital diseases are 'exaggerated' and 'unwarranted' on the grounds that '85 to 90 per cent of cousin couples have unaffected children'. The national average rate for unaffected children is 98 per cent. Admitting there are some 'risks to child health associated with close relative marriage', the guidance says these should 'be balanced against the potential benefits... from this marriage practice'. And marrying a relative fairly common in the Pakistani community can offer 'economic benefits' as well as 'emotional and social connections' and 'social capital', the document says. The Manchester Foundation Trust, one of the largest NHS Trusts in England, advertised the Neonatal Nurse position as a fixed-term 12-month contract. It is one of a number of similar positions being publicised across the NHS, including a Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust role in Slough, 'close relative' midwifery and nursing posts in Bedfordshire Hospitals and at GP practices in Bradford. A Manchester NHS Trust has advertised an 'exciting new job opportunity' for a close-relative marriage nurse - to help cousins who are having children together (File image: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust) The role - now closed for applications - was shared earlier this year in a bid to enable 'informed reproductive decision making' This graphic, from NHS material distributed to couples in Bradford, explains some of the genetic risks of having children with a close relative. Two parents with a recessive gene have an increased chance of having a child with an inherited condition The successful applicant will receive a salary of between 37,338 to 44,962 a year, working full-time to ensure 'support and improve engagement with genetic services for affected families' and enable parents to 'make informed choices in a culturally sensitive empowering way'. An NHS source told the Mail: 'The purpose of the role is to advise families of the genetic risks associated with children born from close relative marriages and promote an informed understanding. 'The purpose of the role is not to advise how cousins can have children, it is about working with families to assess the risks and provide access to relevant information and research on genetics so that informed choices can be made.' Cousin marriage is popular among certain communities in Britain such as those of Pakistani and Bangladeshi heritage. Critics have accused the NHS of turning a blind eye to an 'indefensible cultural practice'. Kellie-Jay Keen, leader of the Party of Women, described the phenomenon as 'dangerous' - insisting it is 'not part of our culture'. The gender-critical activist told the Daily Mail: 'The cost to the NHS and social care of this practice is enormous. 'Subjecting children to this risk unnecessarily is cruel. 'The reason it continues is political cowardice. The government knows the harm, but it is unwilling to confront the cultural practices of certain communities for fear of being labelled racist or Islamophobic". 'So instead of protecting children, it chooses silence and appeasement. When it comes to deliberately bringing children into the world with a high risk of serious disabilities, it is unconscionable to pander to any special group.' Kellie-Jay Keen, leader of the Party of Women, described the phenomenon as 'dangerous' - insisting it is 'not part of our culture' Manchester NHS Trust is one of multiple employers to have advertised roles akin to the close-relative marriage nurse over the past year-and-a-half. A similar position was publicised at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust in Slough - as well as 'close relative' midwifery and nursing posts in other parts of England such as in Bedfordshire Hospitals and GP practices in Bradford. Aisha Ali-Khan, a child of first cousins, has previously spoken out about the dangers of promoting the benefits of close-relative marriage. Ms Ali-Khan said: 'My parents Mohammed and Barkat were first cousins. Four of their seven children were born with severe disabilities. 'Three have died one of them my twin brother and I am carer to my beloved older sister Tahira, who has a mental age of about eight. I also have a genetic medical condition.' The Women's Rights Activist said it was clear there was a need for a better understanding of the associated risks - not just within affected communities but within the NHS. But she told the Daily Mail: 'In an ideal world we wouldn't need this - there wouldn't be cousins marrying and having children. 'It is actually quite a lot of money that is being spent on these positions too - especially when you ask how many other trusts are doing it. Aisha Ali-Khan (pictured), a child of first cousins, has previously spoken out about the dangers of promoting the benefits of close-relative marriage Your browser does not support iframes. 'I think there should be more education around this in schools - for example, learning about genetics in a biology lesson.' Ms Ali-Khan went on to describe the experience of her friend - who she said was 'generally very educated and intelligent' but had 'no idea that first cousins getting married could lead to this (fetal abnormalities) situation'. But she said talking to a qualified practitioner was ultimately better than getting advice from 'some aunt down the street'. After it emerged the NHS had published an online article citing the 'various potential benefits of cousin marriage' Ms Ali-Khan condemned the 'highly dangerous stance' in a Daily Mail comment piece. She said: 'This stance is highly dangerous, as it encourages a deadly precedent marry your cousin first, deal with the consequences later. And what might those consequences be? 'It is nothing short of wickedness, a shocking position by a health service which seems to condone a practice that can lead to serious disabilities and life-changing circumstances. 'My parents, my siblings and I have suffered an indescribable burden of grief over many years. No parent should have to bury their children; my parents have buried three.' Marriages between cousins were once commonplace among Britain's upper echelon and seen as a practice to strengthen alliances and keep wealth and land within families. Despite falling out of fashion, the practice is still common in some communities, including among Travellers and in South Asian circles. As of May 2025, it was estimated just one per cent of white British couples were first cousins. Experts first began tracking the prevalence of consanguinity in Bradford home to one of the UK's biggest Pakistani communities in the late noughties. Almost 12,500 pregnant women were quizzed about their relationship status with the father of their child. The Born in Bradford study was later repeated with another cohort of 2,400 women between 2016 and 2019. The study found that cousin relationships are no longer a 'majority' in Bradford's female Pakistani community amid rising awareness of the birth defect risks. A decade ago, a Government-funded surveillance project found that 62 per cent of Pakistani heritage women were in consanguineous relationships. This figure has since dropped to 46 per cent, according to researchers. It was said that the figures from the study could indicate the numbers of Pakistani people marrying cousins across the UK as a whole is falling. Reasons behind the fall are thought to include higher educational attainment, stricter immigration rules and changes in family dynamics. Six men charged with helping an alleged killer flee the country after a father was stabbed to death outside a five-star hotel in London have appeared in court today. Blue Stevens, 24, was fatally knifed in front of his partner in broad daylight outside the 1,650-a night Park Tower Hotel and Casino, in Knightsbridge, in July last year. Murder-accused Youssef Razak, 25, is wanted in connection with the murder, which police believe was a 'targeted' attack. Each of the six men were charged with assisting acts with intent to pervert the court of justice and appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court today. They included: Nicholas McCoy, 22, of Compton Crescent, Chiswick; Jayden Clement-Bryan, 24, of Southville Close, Feltham; Mozahedul Alam, 26, of St Thomas Road, Chiswick; Shafwan Meah, 20, of St Thomas Road, Chiswick; Ali Hindawi, 24, of Accolade Avenue, Southall; and Adan Hindawi, 25, of Mostyn Grove, Tower Hamlets. McCoy; Clement-Bryan; and brothers Ali and Adan Hindawi were additionally charged with helping burn a car used in the murder. Alam is also accused alongside his sibling Meah of helping book a ferry for Razak to flee, with Adan Hindawi accused of providing a car. Ali Hindawi allegedly gave Razak his own passport to travel on false documents. Blue Stevens, 24, (pictured) was fatally knifed in front of his partner in broad daylight outside the 1,650-a night Park Tower Hotel and Casino on Seville Street, Knightsbridge, on July 9 2025 Detectives are investigating numerous motivations behind Mr Stevens's death, including whether he was murdered in an attempted robbery over the gold timepiece he was wearing at the time. Mr Stevens and his partner were heading for dinner at Nusr-Et, the steakhouse run by celebrity chef Salt Bae, when they were intercepted by the attacker. A nearby hotel worker previously told the Daily Mail Mr Stevens was stabbed in the chest as the pair walked along the pavement. Prosecutor Davi Burns said: 'These charges arise out of the murder of Blue Stevens who was murdered by a male Yousef Razak. 'Mr Razak has now fled the country, these defendants have assisted Mr Razak to flee the country and generally escaping the course of justice.' Mr Stevens family said: 'Nothing can undo what has been taken from us. Our lives will never be happy or complete without our Blue. 'We are pleading with anyone who has any information about this crime or the offender to come forward. Any information, no matter how small, could help our children to know their father's life mattered.' Keir Starmer's premiership is hanging from a thread today as he faces mounting calls to quit. But his rivals for power within the Labour party appear far from ready to step into his shoes. As many as six names have been linked with a challenge to Sir Keir. But none appears to want to be the person who triggers it, perhaps wary of the saying 'the hand that wields the knife shall never wear the crown'. But events have also taken place before they are ready, with May's local elections seen as a focal point for unrest on Labour backbenches. Andy Burnham was seen as the main challenger, but Sir Keir blocked the Greater Manchester mayor from running for a Westminster seat last month, effectively killing off any imminent hope of replacing the PM. It means that Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister and Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, are the best placed to vie to take over. Also in the frame are Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, and Net Zero chief Ed Miliband - who has been Labour leader before. And then there is the outside candidate, Veterans Minister Al Carns, who was only elected as an MP 18 months ago. Here we look at the main runners and riders to take power. As many as six names have been linked with a challenge to Sir Keir. But none appears to want to be the person who triggers it, perhaps wary of the saying 'the hand that wields the knife shall never wear the crown'. Angela Rayner The 'Red Queen' has emerged as a serious contender for the soft Left Labour candidate now that Andy Burnham has been seen off. She is popular with the membership and was one of the Cabinet's best performers ... right up until her private life got her sacked. The 45-year-old grandmother was forced to quit in September after admitting she underpaid tax on the purchase of an 800,000 holiday home 250 miles from her constituency. And six months later it is still hanging over her in the form of an HMRC investigation. Angela Rayner got a new haircut in a video posted to TikTok hours before Morgan McSweeney's resignation At the weekend it was reported she had asked those doing the tax probe if there is anything she can do to speed it up, a sign that she knows she needs to have her ducks in a row as soon as possible. On Friday she moved to put daylight between herself and Sir Keir by spinning that she had warned him not to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, a move playing a key part in his demise. And last week she played a key role in brokering a deal to release documents relating to his appointment with Parliament, a move that helped the PM but which which did her own standing no hard. In a potential sign she is planning to stand, at the weekend she posted footage of herself having her auburn locks touched up on social media. Ms Rayner requested 'the usual' from her hairdresser in footage shared to TikTok - which meant touching up her roots with semi-permanent dye and a minor trim to leave her 'feathery' at the front. It is not clear when the video was recorded but the clip was posted hours before Starmer's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney quit Downing Street to plunge the PM into crisis. Wes Streeting The Health Secretary has made precious little effort to disguise the fact that he wants to be PM at some point. A challenger needs the backing of a fifth of Labour's 404 MPs to mount a challenge. Streeting's allies believe he has the 'solid' support of almost half of them already. But while Mr Streeting is a seasoned media operator in a big Cabinet job, his obviousness could count against him, if not with other MPs then with the more leftwing party membership. A challenger needs the backing of a fifth of Labour's 404 MPs to mount a challenge. Streeting's allies believe he has the 'solid' support of almost half of them already. The Ilford North MP is part of the Labour right and while he would easily get onto the ballot, he would face an 'anyone but Wes' campaign from the soft Left that would pour votes into Rayner or another from that wing of the party. In December an ally of Rayner said she would 'rather stick pins in her eyes' than back Streeting for PM. And last month he was the subject of an astonishing briefing from No10 itself. Mr Streeting's camp has complained that the latest briefings against him - suggesting Sir Keir should sack him for disloyalty - were 'incredibly stupid'. That came after the Health Secretary took a dig at Keir Starmer's frequent U-turns, saying Labour had to start 'getting it right first time'. He also appeared to criticise the PM for complaining that it is too hard to get things done in Government. Ed Miliband Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband is by far the most popular Cabinet minister among Labour grassroots members, but will he want a second bite at the cherry? Mr Miliband has already been Labour leader once, taking it to defeat in the 2015 general election at the hands of David Cameron's Conservatives. And the most memorable thing from his time in charge was the way he ate a bacon sandwich. Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Miliband has already been Labour leader once, and the most memorable thing from his time in charge was the way he ate a bacon sandwich And he is seen as a zealous champion of the government's green wing, pushing for Britain to embrace more and more renewable power. As the Conservatives found when they were in government, choosing the members' favourite is not necessarily a guarantee of wider electoral success. Were he to run and win, it would almost certainly mean the government doubling down on its Net Zero agenda, which other ministers have been trying to water down. Shabana Mahmood The Home Secretary would be another candidate from the right of the party. Despite only being in post since last year, replacing Yvette Cooper in a reshuffle, she has caught the eye with a hardline approach to illegal immigration. She has said Britain should 'never' have housed asylum seekers in hotels, as she oversaw them being moved into dingy military barracks in East Sussex. The Home Secretary would be another candidate from the right of the party. She is also the face of one of the biggest reorganisations of British policing in decades. Counter-terror, fraud and criminal gang investigations are set to be taken over by a new national police force dubbed the 'British FBI' under major policing reforms. But as with Wes Streeting she is vulnerable to a challenge from the left, especially over her approach to immigration. Al Carns The Veterans Minister has been mentioned as a possible breath of fresh air. And he responded to claims he could run by posting a picture of himself chilling out and enjoying a pint. But he he has only been in the Commons since 2024 and replacing a leader criticised for a lack of political nous with a relative newcomer however compelling their backstory would be risky. Carns is a former Royal Marines colonel who served five tours in Afghanistan and was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry. And he would not baulk at having a mountain to climb - last year he was part of a four-man team that set a record in climbing Mount Everest. The Veterans Minister has been mentioned as a possible breath of fresh air. And he responded to claims he could run by posting a picture of himself chilling out and enjoying a pint. He would not baulk at having a mountain to climb - last year he was part of a four-man team that set a record in climbing Everest They scaled the peak in under five days without the usual stops for acclimatising, which can often take weeks. Last month he was among those who criticised Donald Trump as 'ridiculous' for belittling UK troops' efforts in Afghanistan. Without referring to Mr Trump by name, he said: 'I served five tours in Afghanistan, many alongside my American colleagues. We shed blood, sweat and tears together. Not everybody came home. 'These are bonds, I think, forged in fire, protecting the US, our shared interests, but actually protecting democracy overall.' The Epstein files threaten to bring down the British government and have left the monarchy more vulnerable than ever, a top American lawmaker has warned. Ro Khanna, who co-authored the congressional bill that compelled Donald Trump to release the files, was asked about Lord Peter Mandelson and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on Tuesday ahead of a closed-door deposition of Ghislaine Maxwell. 'Mandelson may bring down the whole government, from what I hear,' the California Democratic representative said before entering the House Oversight Committee hearing where Maxwell pleaded the Fifth and gave no evidence. '[Mandelson] engaged in terrible behavior. The allegations are very serious that he was working for Gordon Brown and then feeding information about UK possibly buying Euros and having Epstein trade on that.' He added: 'I think this is the most vulnerable the British monarchy has ever been.' Mr Khanna said 'they ought to ask the King and Queen questions', and suggested that 'maybe this will be the end of the monarchy.' The US lawmaker appears to have been referencing recent incidents where King Charles was heckled by members of the public over Andrew's ties to Epstein. Sir Keir Starmer faced the greatest crisis of his premiership on Monday as Scotland's Labour leader Ana Sarwar called on him to resign over the Mandelson scandal. US Representative Ro Khanna, Democrat from California, speaks to reporters before entering a House Oversight Committee closed-door virtual deposition with Ghislaine Maxwell on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on February 9 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer talks with Britain's ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassador's residence on February 26, 2025 Prince Andrew, Duke of York attends the Funeral of the Duchess of Kent at Westminster Cathedral on September 16, 2025 in London The Prime Minister's position is in jeopardy over his decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as US ambassador despite his friendship with the pedophile financier. Mr Sarwar said he viewed Sir Keir as a 'friend' and a 'decent man' but there had been 'too many mistakes'. 'The distraction needs to end and the leadership in Downing Street has to change,' he told a press conference in Glasgow. As Mr Sarwar was speaking, a series of Cabinet ministers rushed out statements in support of Sir Keir. MANDELSON'S EPSTEIN FILES In 2003-2004, bank documents suggest Epstein sent three payments totaling $75,000 to accounts linked to Mandelson or his partner Reinaldo Avila da Silva. Mandelson has said that he doesn't remember receiving the money and will investigate whether the documents are authentic. In 2008, Epstein avoided federal prosecution by pleading guilty to state charges in Florida of soliciting and procuring a minor for prostitution. He was sentenced to 18 months in jail. Emails and text messages show that Mandelson's friendship with Epstein continued after the financier's sentence. In 2009, Epstein sent da Silva 10,000 pounds (about $13,650 at today's rates) to pay for an osteopathy course. Mandelson told The Times 'in retrospect, it was clearly a lapse in our collective judgment for Reinaldo to accept this offer.' Also in 2009, Mandelson, then Business Secretary, appears to have told Epstein he would lobby other members of the government to reduce a tax on bankers' bonuses. The same year, Mandelson sent Epstein an internal government report discussing ways the U.K. could raise money after the 2008 global financial crisis, including by selling off government assets. Mandelson wrote: 'Interesting note that's gone to the PM.' In May 2010, Mandelson messaged Epstein that 'sources tell me 500 b euro bailout' is almost complete. The message was dated hours before day European governments announced a 500 billion euro deal to shore up the single currency. Advertisement Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said Mr Sarwar was 'wrong', while chief whip Jonathan Reynolds said: 'Resorting to infighting now does not serve the country.' Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy was the first of the Cabinet to post his support on social media, saying: 'We should let nothing distract us from our mission to change Britain and we support the Prime Minister in doing that.' Labour's 37 Scottish MPs now face a choice: back Mr Sarwar or stay loyal to Sir Keir. Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander gave his backing to Sir Keir. Two of Sir Keir's top aides resigned in the last 48 hours over Lord Mandelson's appointment chief of staff Morgan McSweeney and communications chief Tim Allan. Sir Keir told staff at Downing Street on Monday morning that they must 'go forward from here' and prove that politics can be a 'force for good'. Speaking to his team about Mandelson, Sir Keir said: 'The thing that makes me most angry is the undermining of the belief that politics can be a force for good and can change lives.' The Prime Minister insists that he was misled by Lord Mandelson over his relationship with Epstein during the vetting process. Sir Keir was forced to commit to releasing a swathe of material last week following a revolt by MPs. The pressure on his premiership looks unlikely to ease as the Government prepares for the lengthy process of releasing tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents relating to Lord Mandelson's appointment. Sir Keir believes the files will prove the Labour grandee lied about the extent of his ties to Epstein during his vetting. He and his former chief of staff McSweeney, who quit on Sunday, have pinned blame on vetting by the security services for failing to disprove Lord Mandelson's claims that he barely knew the late financier, which were dramatically undermined by disclosures in the Epstein files. UK police last week opened a criminal investigation into Lord Mandelson over emails which showed he may have shared market-sensitive information with the convicted sex offender. Lord Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords last Tuesday. He retains his title which was conferred on him for life when he was appointed to the upper chamber in 2008. Never-before-seen footage buried deep in the Epstein files has revealed the moment prison guards found the paedophile's corpse. The CCTV tape, buried deep in the millions of bits of documents and footage released by both the Justice Department and the House Oversight committee, gives rare insight into the circumstances leading up to Jeffrey Epstein's death. Epstein was being held in the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York on sex trafficking at the time of his death on August 10, 2019. He was found unresponsive in his cell early that morning by prison guards. After they tried to perform CPR, he was rushed to the New York Downtown Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The New York City medical examiner ruled that Epstein's death was a suicide by hanging. But the circumstances around his death have fuelled major conspiracy theories that the financier's passing may have come about through foul play. Footage now unearthed by the Daily Mail shows the outline of a prison guard approaching a desk near Epstein's cell at 6.30am on the day of his death. Just 10 seconds later, the person then makes his way to the cell. The CCTV tape gives rare insight into the circumstances leading up to Jeffrey Epstein's death Jeffrey Epstein (pictured) was reported to have died by suicide some time after 6.30am on August 10, 2019 A little over a minute after this, a guard can be seen moving back and forth between the security desk, where he is shortly joined by two others, and the area housing Epstein's cell. The guards are then seen running between the two areas. Epstein was officially declared dead at 6.39am. Epstein's death abruptly halted one of the most closely watched federal criminal cases in recent memory. Prosecutors had accused him of operating a years-long sex trafficking operation involving underage girls, with alleged victims coming forward to describe abuse that spanned multiple states and countries. His arrest in July 2019 followed years of scrutiny over a controversial plea agreement he reached in Florida in 2008, which allowed him to avoid federal prosecution at the time. The new charges brought in New York exposed Epstein to the possibility of decades in prison if he was convicted. But Epstein's death came amid a cascade of failures inside one of the federal government's most secure detention facilities. Prison records show that guards assigned to monitor Epstein did not conduct required checks during the overnight hours before his body was discovered. Epstein was being held in the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York on sex trafficking at the time of his death on August 10, 2019 He was declared dead at 6.39am Scheduled rounds at 3am and 5am were missed, according to official findings. Furthermore, cameras positioned outside Epstein's cell were not functioning properly that night. Investigators later confirmed that at least two surveillance cameras had malfunctioned, leaving critical gaps in visual monitoring of the area. Because of those failures, officials were unable to establish a definitive timeline of Epstein's final moments. To this day, no precise official time of death has been determined. The newly released DOJ files contain additional details that investigators reviewed in the aftermath of Epstein's death, including surveillance observations from inside the facility. According to the records, investigators from the FBI and the Justice Department's Office of Inspector General identified footage showing what appeared to be an unidentified figure moving toward the floor where Epstein was housed. The footage captured an orange-coloured shape ascending a staircase in the vicinity of Epstein's housing unit during the overnight hours. A shadowy, orange object could be seen moving up the stairs to Epstein's cell block at the New York prison at around 10.40pm the night before he was found dead Epstein was found dead in the Metropolitan Correctional Centre on August 10, 2019 Among the millions of files released by the DOJ were photos from inside Epstein's cell Investigators from the FBI and the DoJ's Office of the Inspector General (OIG) flagged that CCTV footage from inside the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York, where Epstein was held before his death, appeared to show an orange flash that may have been 'an inmate' walking up to the floor the notorious paedophile was being held on. Investigators noticed an orange shape moving up a staircase towards his cell on the night of his death. The report, from the OIG, noted that at 10.39pm on August 9, 2019, FBI agents observed that 'a flash of orange looks to be going up the L Tier stairs - could possibly be an inmate escorted up to that Tier'. The inspector general appeared to draw a different conclusion to the FBI, writing of the flash of orange: 'Inmates are currently on lockdown, it is possible someone is carrying inmate linen or bedding up.' The analysis from the two investigative bodies contradicts public statements made by at least two top US officials. Bill Barr, who was the US attorney general during Trump's first term, claimed in a 2019 interview that he had personally reviewed security footage that confirmed that no one entered the area where Epstein was housed on the night he died. And last May, former deputy director of the FBI Dan Bongino told Fox News: 'There's video clear as day. He's the only person in there and the only person coming out. You can see it.' He added shortly before the release of the video last August: 'We are working on cleaning it up to make sure you have an enhanced [version] and we're going to give the original so you don't think there were any shenanigans.' The final report by the Inspector General stated: 'At approximately 10:39 p.m., an unidentified CO appeared to walk up the L Tier stairway, and then reappeared within view of the camera at 10:41 p.m.' A woman was mauled to death by her own dog after she tripped and fell at her North Carolina home. Police were called to the $200,000 Craftsman property in Durham late Thursday night after the woman, who has not been publicly identified, was attacked by her pet. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, WNCN reported. Her cause of death remains under investigation. She was taken out of the home on a stretcher, neighbors said. She is understood to live with several other women, all of whom have various pets. Animal control removed the dog from the premises. The Durham County Sheriff's Office Animal Services has since taken possession of it. The dog is being held under a ten-day bite confinement. Deputies are monitoring it for signs of rabies or any other viruses. A woman was mauled to death by her own pet dog in this house on N Driver St in Durham Police have not disclosed the dog's breed or age. It is also unclear if the pet had received any training, although locals claim it has 'never been aggressive'. 'It's scary because that can happen to anyone,' one resident told WRAL after learning of the tragedy. 'But I have dogs myself, and that's why I'm scared to get a big dog.' Another said the owners would 'let it run around in the backyard' but claimed 'it's never been aggressive'. Locals said they are shocked by the attack and saddened by the loss of their 'generous' neighbor. 'It's a loss to the community, they were just a really nice person and just so quick to help and get people the resources that they need,' one neighbor said. Officials say no other injuries were reported in the attack. The Daily Mail has approached Durham police for further information. The Cabinet has stepped back from the brink. After 24 hours furiously debating the Prime Ministers future in private, Keir Starmers most senior colleagues have backed him to stay on. For now. It was touch and go. For hours on Sunday night and Monday morning, members of the Cabinet flatly refused requests from No 10 to publicly back the PM, leaving Sir Keir to sweat in his Downing Street bunker. Instead, ministers discussed privately whether to force him out and what to do if Sir Keir decided to throw in the towel at short notice and who they might ask to serve as an interim PM. At lunchtime on Monday, Downing Street claimed that the PM was getting on with the job with the support of the Cabinet. In a speech to staff he is even said to have been upbeat. But officials were unable to point to a single supportive comment from any member of the Cabinet in the previous 24 hours. The Cabinets hand was finally forced by news from north of the border. When Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar announced an emergency press conference at 2.30pm, it quickly became clear he was going to call on the PM to resign. The move forced them to make a snap decision on whether to stick with Sir Keir or risk tumbling into a chaotic leadership contest for which none of the main candidates are truly ready. Keir Starmer leaving No 10 last night... for now his position appears safe, writes Jason Groves The Cabinets hand was finally forced by news from north of the border suggesting Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar was about to call for Sir Keir's resignation Join the debate Is this just a temporary stay of execution? One minute before Mr Sarwar was due to get to his feet in Glasgow, the Deputy PM David Lammy finally broke the Cabinets silence, taking to X to urge colleagues to support the Prime Minister. In the following hour, every single member of the Cabinet, who had had so little supportive to say for so long, piled in behind him to voice their backing for the Dear Leader. Mr Sarwars criticisms were devastating all the more so as they came from a long-time ally of Sir Keir. There had been, he said, too many mistakes in No 10. I have to be honest about failure wherever I see it, he said. The distraction has to end, the leadership has to change. If one or two senior ministers had followed suit as Mr Sarwar had suggested they might Sir Keirs troubled premiership would have been over. But no one is fully ready for a leadership contest that threatens to be chaotic. Andy Burnham remains marooned in Manchester, unable to stand. Angela Rayner is on manoeuvres yesterday it emerged she has already set up a Rayner for leader website. But she still has an HMRC investigation hanging over her and would potentially be asking Labour to replace one scandal-ridden PM with another. Allies of Wes Streeting fret that his long friendship with Peter Mandelson could derail his leadership campaign in an atmosphere where the disgraced peer is totally toxic. Yesterday, he was offering to show Labour MPs his messages to Lord Mandelson to prove they are innocuous. But he could use more time for the Mandelson scandal to subside. Other hopefuls such as Ed Miliband, deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell and Home Office minister Jess Phillips are now eyeing their chances. Even the unknown armed forces minister Al Carns, who has been in politics for less than two years, has let it be known that he fancies a shot at the job. The Cabinet took the collective view yesterday that plunging the party into an unpredictable leadership contest now could be disastrous, particularly with vital local elections round the corner in May. But Sir Keirs survival prospects remain dire. On Sunday, his talismanic chief of staff Morgan McSweeney left his side for the first time since he became Labour leader six years ago. On Monday, morning his communications chief Tim Allan the fourth person to hold the role in 18 months followed him out of No 10s famous black door. This least political of prime ministers suddenly has no-one left to tell him what to think or what to say. He remains engulfed by criticism of his disastrous decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. And there is no escape on the horizon. Parliament has ordered the release of tens of thousands of documents surrounding the decision, along with messages exchanged with Lord Mandelson by his ministers and senior aides. Whitehall sources say it will take weeks or even months before the documents are all in the public domain prolonging the agony for a PM who wants nothing more than to consign his disgraced former friend to history. As the events of Monday clearly demonstrated, Sir Keirs future is no longer entirely within his own hands. The Cabinets belated and frankly unconvincing show of loyalty has brought him a stay of execution. But it could easily be withdrawn when the circumstances are better suited for a leadership contest, such as after the local elections in May. All it would take is a puff of wind to blow the PM over now. And he is riding through a storm. Police are appealing for information after a man was captured on CCTV after an alleged rape on a university campus. A male victim in his 20s claims he was raped by a man at the Bognor Regis campus of the University of Chichester between 10pm and 10.45pm on Monday, January 5. Now, more than a month later, Sussex Police have released images of a person who they believe has information which could lead to an arrest. CCTV footage captured on the campus shows a man wearing a grey tracksuit with the hood pulled up and a black coat. In two of the pictures he has glasses on, while in the other they have been taken off. The public have been urged to come forward if they have information about the identity of the person in the footage. Detective Inspector Matt Phelps said: 'A thorough investigation has been launched into this incident, with the welfare of the victim as our foremost priority. Sussex Police have released pictures of a person who they believe has information which could lead to an arrest 'We believe the man pictured here will be of great help to our enquiries and we are keen to speak to him. 'If you can help, please contact us online or via 101, quoting Operation Collingwood.' A decision on whether to launch a Scottish public inquiry into grooming gangs is to be delayed for more than 18 months, sparking fury from victims and opposition politicians. A national review of group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation set up by SNP ministers yesterday set out an 18 month timescale for the first two phases of its work. The first phase will report on the scale and nature of the problem, before the next then looks at what changes are needed to further protect children, with a report by autumn of next year. Ministers said the national review, involving a number of public protection bodies, will inform any decision on the need for a public inquiry. But one victim who was groomed while living in a childrens unit in Edinburgh between the ages of 13 and 17, who is referred to as Sarah to protect her identity, said: In my honest opinion, the 18 months feels like a delay. I worry theyre hoping to do three things: let it drag on until people lose interest. If it takes long enough the public attention fades and it becomes easier to avoid a proper inquiry. Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Liam Kerr 'They also want to get past the elections in May. I think politicians, including the First Minister, dont want anything coming out before then that could hurt their votes. They also want to hide behind the fear of being called racist or discriminatory. 'Because its such a sensitive topic, it feels like theyre going extra slow so they can say, lets wait and see if theres really anything there, even though theyve already been told its still happening. Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Liam Kerr said: If the SNP are serious about tackling child sexual exploitation, they must stop hiding behind reviews and commit to a full, independent inquiry now. 'John Swinney set up this review to kick the can down the road, and the question he has to answer is why? Jackie Irvine, chief executive of the Care Inspectorate, said: Our meeting today with a broad range of public protection representatives set out the full scope of the national review. We will report the joint findings and conclusions at the end of each phase, with the first one culminating in the summer. A Scottish Government spokesman said: 'The Scottish Government is taking determined action to establish the potential extent and scale of child sexual exploitation and abuse, heinous acts that cause significant and lasting damage. 'That is why we established the independent national review so we can assess the evidence base on the nature and extent of group-based child abuse and exploitation. 'As outlined by the independent Inspectorates phase one of the National Review, during which evidence will be gathered, is expected to take six months and report its findings in summer 2026. 'Information from the National Review, Police Scotlands ongoing work, and the advice of the National Strategic Group chaired by Professor Alexis Jay, will continue to inform advice to Ministers on whether a national inquiry on group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation is required.' A young woman jailed for posting naked images of her father's mistress has been recalled to prison, the Daily Mail can reveal. Eleanor Brown, 26 egged on by her mother and sister - posted the photos on an escort website in a drunken act of revenge for the affair which almost destroyed her parents' marriage. Brown, from Morley, West Yorkshire, was sentenced to three years in prison, reduced to two years on appeal in October 2024. Described by a judge as 'vindictive, selfish and vengeful', she was released late last year on licence, with an electronic ankle tag fitted. But she was recalled to prison last month, a Ministry of Justice source confirmed. It is not clear why. But since her release, Brown has defiantly insisted: 'I'm not sorry and never will be sorry.' She has also posted frequently on social media complaining about the conditions behind bars. This weekend she posted a message on her Instagram feed while claiming she had been prevented from having 'contact with the outside world' after being recalled to prison. It is unclear how she still has access to social media while in jail. She said, under the heading: 'Eleanor update!!!! I need you to tell my mum an officer has told me the prison will not let me speak to my mum, all excuses I have been told are excuses. Eleanor Brown (pictured) was jailed for three years in October 2024 after she posted sexual images of her father's former lover on an escort site. She served half her sentence before being released, but has now been recalled to prison Eleanor (centre) pictured with sister Sophie (left) and mother Sarah (right), who sent sexual images of the mistress to her daughter. Eleanor then used the photos to create a profile on a sex-for-sale site Eleanor posted the photos after finding out her father Geoff (pictured) had an affair with the woman nearly a decade ago 'They will not facilitate contact with my mum because of what I have been recalled for, she needs to tell a solicitor. They won't authorise her pin, they won't let me have any contact with her. I have been told this, I also cannot get a legal call until tomorrowplease tell her asap. She needs to go to press with this. They won't let me have contact with outside world!!!! What the f***.' The affair between her father Geoff Brown, a former police officer, and his mistress was discovered when Eleanor was just 14, but 12 years later the fling came back to haunt them. Geoff's wife, Sarah, who still held resentment towards the woman who almost destroyed her marriage, sent sexual images of her to her daughter. Eleanor then used the photos to create a profile on a sex-for-sale site offering sexual services for 5 and overnight stays for 10 causing the woman's phone to blow up with messages. In October 2024, Eleanor was jailed for three years with the judge claiming she had shown 'staggering' lack of remorse and exhibited 'vindictive, selfish and vengeful behaviour'. Now having been released from jail after serving half her sentence Eleanor, who said she was 'put in prison for a joke', claims she still has no regrets about sharing the images. She said: 'If I could turn the clocks back the only thing I'd do differently is put my phone in the bin. I would just bin the phone, that phone has got me in so much trouble. 'But I am not remorseful. I do not hold any remorse in my body. I wouldn't do it again - your nudes are all safe - but I am definitely not remorseful.' Eleanor added in a video on TikTok: 'I think the moral of the story is that I am not sorry, never will be sorry, will never do it again. 'And [now] I've got a job, got a house, got a nice fella, got good friends, got a good family.' Eleanor (pictured) has posted on social media complaining about the conditions behind bars Eleanor (pictured) previously said 'I am not sorry, never will be sorry,' for creating the fake profile The advert Eleanor had put on the Viva Street website was purportedly offering sexual services and included a picture of the mistress. She included the number of the woman's husband who received 14 texts and eight calls from prospective clients in the space of half an hour of the ad being posted. The drama around the historic affair had been reignited after Eleanor's mother, Sarah, had seen the mistress's husband had set up a new business, which had become a success. Eleanor, egged on by her sister and mother, then began bombarding the business's social media pages calling the man's wife a 'home-wrecking s**g and a tramp'. She then WhatsApped the woman's husband a link to the Viva Street ad, along with a link to the Celine Dion song It's All Coming Back To Me Now, in reference to his wife's affair. Brown claimed afterwards: 'I didn't think what I was doing would be considered revenge porn.' A week after she set up the fake profile on the escort site, the police arrested Brown at her home. Messages uncovered by cops showed she was encouraged by her sister Sophie - who was a serving police officer at the time - but she was not charged. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson told the Daily Mail: 'Offenders released on licence are subject to strict conditions and we do not hesitate to send them back to prison if they break the rules.' A student was shot inside a Maryland high school as a suspect was detained, police said. Terrified Thomas S. Wootton High School pupils sheltered in place as the campus was locked down amid the active shooter incident on Monday afternoon. Montgomery County Police Department officers were dispatched to the school in Rockville, on the outskirts of Washington DC, at around 2.15pm local time. Around 45 minutes later, the department confirmed that one person had been shot. The victim, later identified as a student, has been transported to hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. The student was found with one gunshot wound in a school hallway, according to police. 'The shooting occurred inside of the school. One confirmed victim,' Montgomery Police wrote on X. They later added that one person had been detained. 'The suspect, also a student, was quickly identified and arrested a short time later near the school,' police said. It remains unclear if the suspect acted alone. Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) placed the school on lockdown. Student release began just after 4pm, live footage showed. A student has been shot inside a Maryland high school and a suspect has been detained, police said. Thomas S. Wootton High School (pictured) was placed on lockdown Parents wait outside school grounds for news on their children inside, as they began to start releasing students just after 4pm The suspect, believed to be a fellow student, was placed into custody by officers on the scene Police closed all roads leading to the school as they secured the area. Joel Shore, a student who left the school earlier in the day, told WUSA 9 that he was talking with his friends inside the school during the lockdown. 'It seems like everyone inside is extremely scared,' he added. 'I'm shocked. I just wish this didn't happen.' Shore added that he is not aware of any metal detectors in the school. 'They check your student ID and then you just walk right in,' Shore said. One parent's messages with his son said the student heard yelling and banging through the floor above him, the outlet reported. The student also said he heard special response teams going through the school. Family members have been told the reunification site is Robert Frost Middle School. Parents have been advised not to arrive at the school campus. Montgomery Council Council President Natali Fani-Gonzalez said she is 'shocked' and 'heartbroken' by the shooting and the safety of the students remains a top priority. 'This shouldn't happen in our schools at all,' she told the outlet. 'The shooting occurred inside of the school. One confirmed victim,' Montgomery Police wrote on X. They later added that one person had been detained The police department confirmed that one person has been wounded inside the school This is a breaking news story with updates to follow. A fresh row broke out between Wes Streeting and Downing Street on Monday night after the Health Secretary accused No 10 of briefing against him while he was out defending the Prime Minister. Downing Street accused Mr Streeting of co-ordinating with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to call for Keir Starmer to quit over the Peter Mandelson scandal, the Health Secretary's spokesman said. The hostile briefing against him took place while Mr Streeting was doing an interview with Sky News in which he expressed support for the Prime Minister, they added. Despite that support, the Health Secretary seemed to be clearing the path for a potential leadership bid as he published his private WhatsApp messages with Peter Mandelson. As dark clouds gathered around the PM last week, Mr Streeting's name was once again thrown into the mix to replace him, leading to a vicious briefing war with other rivals, who made much of his friendship with the now-disgraced peer. In a bid to distance himself, the Health Secretary handed to Sky News messages that showed him making scathing remarks about the Prime Minister and Labour's direction. He complained the Government had 'no growth strategy at all' and agreed with Lord Mandelson's comment that 'the government problems do not stem from comms', suggesting the issue was the Sir Keir himself. Other cosy messages, sent between August 2024 and October last year, show the familiar relationship between the pair, with the Health Secretary at one point praising the 'lovely photos' of Lord Mandelson in a newspaper profile. Some are even signed off with a kiss. A fresh row broke out between Wes Streeting and Downing Street on Monday night after the Health Secretary accused No 10 of briefing against him while he was out defending the Prime Minister (Pictured: Streeting in London on January 27) The messages between Streeting and Mandelson reveal that Mr Streeting - who has a majority of just 528 in his Ilford North seat - fears being 'toast at the next election' (Mandelson and Streeting pictured together) The Prime Minister addressed his Labour MPs in a meeting on Monday amid mounting pressure from opposition and members of his own party (Pictured: Starmer heading to his Labour party meeting on Monday) The messages reveal that the Mr Streeting - who has a majority of just 528 in his Ilford North seat - fears being 'toast at the next election', adding: 'There isn't a clear answer to the question: why Labour?' The Health Secretary also told Mandelson that Israel was 'committing war crimes before our eyes' and that he believed the UK needed to join France in recognising the state of Palestine. The WhatsApp messages were set to come out when the government publishes its Mandelson Files, currently under consideration by the Intelligence and Security Committee, into the former spin doctor's doomed appointment as US ambassador despite his closeness to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Relations between the ambitious Mr Streeting and No 10 have been fractious since last year, when another briefing row blew up, leading to the Health Secretary accusing Sir Keir of presiding over a 'toxic culture' in Downing Street. Meanwhile persistent rumours that Mr Streeting is plotting to dislodge Sir Keir have led to fellow ministers urging the Prime Minister to 'bring Wes to heel'. On Monday, Mr Streeting's spokesman told the Times: 'Wes did not ask Anas to do this, he did not co-ordinate with Anas on this. Anas is the leader of the Scottish Labour Party, he is his own man, and Wes has the highest respect for him. 'At the same time as Wes was in an interview saying that Keir needed a chance to set out his case and his plan, No 10 were briefing that Wes had told Anas Sarwar to make his statement. This is the problem.' Writing for the Guardian last night, Mr Streeting said that contrary to reports he 'was not a 'close friend' of Peter Mandelson, but I am not going to wash my hands of my actual association with him either,' saying this was why he had decided to publish the messages. Downing Street accused Mr Streeting of co-ordinating with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to call for Keir Starmer to quit (Pictured: Starwar at a press conference in Glasgow on February 9) Join the debate Did Wes Streeting do the right thing by releasing the messages? He added: 'We saw each other for dinner on average once a year with others. He offered advice. My partner worked for him 25 years ago and I therefore got to know Mandelson better than some of that generation in politics.' No 10 was approached for comment. Donald Trump is trying to clear the criminal record of his longtime confidant Steven Bannon relating to the January 6 Capitol riot. The Justice Department asked the Supreme Court and a federal judge on Monday to dismiss Bannon's criminal indictment and conviction for refusing to testify before the Democrat-led January 6 Committee. A DOJ representative declared removing the charges against Bannon is in the 'interests of justice' after years of alleged political persecution under the prior administration. Bannon served four months in federal prison in 2024 after being convicted on two counts of contempt of Congress. The January 6 Committee was formed by a Democratic majority under Nancy Pelosi to investigate the attack on the US Capitol in 2021. Solicitor General John Sauer wrote in a Supreme Court motion: 'The government has determined in its prosecutorial discretion that dismissal of this criminal case is in the interests of justice. 'The government has accordingly lodged a motion in the district court under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 48(a) to vacate the judgment and dismiss the indictment with prejudice.' Trump's DOJ on Monday asked the Supreme Court o dismiss Bannon's criminal indictment and conviction for refusing to testify before the Democrat-led January 6 committee Back in 2021, Bannon refused to not only testify but also declined to provide any documents to the January 6 committee The justices are currently reviewing an appeal filed by Bannon's attorneys. The Daily Mail reached out to Bannon for comment. The Justice Department argued that the law 'allows the government to seek dismissal even after a jury finds the defendant guilty and the district court enters judgment.' Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also argued that the House January 6 Select Committee was not created properly, and therefore, the subpoenas for Bannon to testify were unlawful. Blanche also claimed the January 6 Committee was part of the Biden administration's 'weaponization' of the legal system. 'Today the Department of Justice told the Supreme Court that Steve Bannon's conviction arising from the J6 'Unselect' Committee's improper subpoena should be vacated,' Blanche said. 'Under the leadership of Attorney General Bondi, this Department will continue to undo the prior administration's weaponization of the justice system.' US Attorney Jeanine Pirro requested a federal judge in Washington DC on Monday vacate Bannon's prior conviction and dismiss the indictment. Join the debate Is this justice or political payback? Bannon has been a close adviser to President Donald Trump for over a decade Bannon has been a close adviser to Trump for over a decade and is often credited as being a key part of Trump's electoral success in 2016 against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. In 2021, Bannon refused to testify and declined to provide any documents to the committee. The House voted soon after to hold him in contempt of Congress and the Biden DOJ led the prosecution. When planning an assassination it is generally a good idea to make sure your pea-shooter is loaded. At 2.30pm, from a grassy knoll in Glasgow, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar tried to kill Sir Keir Starmers premiership. Telescopic sights. Day Of The Jackal moment. Click. Bungler Sarwar pulled the trigger and nothing happened. Hed goofed it. Everything had been planned beautifully. Mr Sarwar was so proud of his plot that he let the Press know beforehand and even telephoned his friend Sir Keir to tell him what he was going to do. Its fair to say, he and I disagreed, mumbled Mr Sarwar afterwards. The No 10 swear box is now heavy with pound coins. Lesson two to would-be Gavrilo Princips: telling your victim what you intend to do is a bad idea. It makes them more likely to wear a bullet-proof jacket or, in the case of Sir Keir, to get David Lammy to begin a series of social media messages from Cabinet ministers expressing devotion to the PM. This happened a minute before Mr Sarwar started his speech in Glasgow. Tim Allan, Sir Keirs press secretary, was exploded, even while sitting at his desk. Just: BANG! And he was gone. Messy Like many fanatics with a murderous glint in their eye, Mr Sarwar kept invoking his homeland. MycountryScotland was how he put it. One word. My first priority is to mycountryScotland. MycountryScotland was uttered six times during the assassination attempt. We will no doubt hear it again when Mr Sarwar is brought to Tyburn in a trundling cart. Blimey, what a Monday. After Sundays Captain Oates moment by Downing Streets chief poisoner Morgan McSweeney, the week began with an ominous silence from Cabinet ministers. Where had they all gone? The only junior minister who could be found to answer questions on the wireless was the education departments Lady (Jacqui) Smith, 3rd XI material at best. While the Cabinet plotted, we had another No 10 oopsie. Tim Allan, Sir Keirs press secretary, was exploded, even while sitting at his desk. Just: BANG! And he was gone. Messy. A British Airways flight simulator had been installed outside 12 Downing Street, traditional home of the Chief Whip. Who needed fake turbulence? Inside No 10, Sir Keir cancelled a planned speech on, of all things, political standards of behaviour. Instead he gave a pep talk to his staff, telling them we go forward! As it happens, those were the words I said to my daughter Honor at her first driving lesson. Five seconds later she parked the Nissan Micra in Mrs Edwardss hedge. Sir Keir's arrival turned no heads. He was just a small, silent figure, bereft of pomp, says our sketchwriter Talk swirled of a caretaker prime minister. Even madder were rumours that Al Carns, a defence minister, might become PM, simply because he is muscular. He is so good at pull-ups that his head once put a dent in the ceiling of the parliamentary gym. Alas, Mr Carns is less fit up top. He is a clunker at the Commons despatch box and starts sentences with the word myself. Back in Glasgow, Mr Sarwar was answering questions. He described Sir Keir as someone I have a certain level of loyalty to. He had literally just called for him to be toppled. But his mad bid to bump off Sir Keir was a failure. The flurry of we support Starmer Tweets ensured that. Angela Rayner deploring party politics and factional games, natch - said she did not want him out. Well, not yet. Barely a handful of Labour MPs attended a Commons statement on parliamentary standards and those who did looked crestfallen, but the nasal knight would live to honk and cronk another day. It was just before 6pm when Sir Keir arrived at a Commons meeting with his MPs and peers. His arrival turned no heads. He was just a small, silent figure, bereft of pomp. As unprepossessing as a librarian heading to the stacks. His entry was met by 30 seconds of strained applause. Mrs Rayner, in crushed-strawberry trouser suit, sailed in afterwards. Although only a backbencher, she used the door reserved for cabinet grandees. And no one said boo to her goose. Anger has grown over footage showing a police officer repeatedly punching a pro-Palestine protester on the ground, as NSW Premier Chris Minns defended his officers and former prime minister Tony Abbott said police should be praised. Demonstrators were peppersprayed, arrested, beaten and shoved by police as they gathered at Sydney Town Hall on Monday evening to protest Israeli President Isaac Herzog's arrival earlier that day. A video shared on social media showed a group of Muslim men leading a prayer on their knees before being hauled away by police. In another widely shared clip, a man appeared to shove a police officer on a bicycle before raising his hands, after which several officers punched him repeatedly as shocked bystanders watched. NSW Premier Chris Minns said he would not 'throw police under the bus' and argued that moving on the Muslim men praying was justified because other protesters had attempted to breach a police line. 'I appreciate the scenes on television didn't look good, but it would have been far, far worse,' he said. 'I support police in a very difficult set of circumstances, they were trying to keep the public safe, and the record shows they did everything possible to avoid these confrontations.' Minns said police were forced to balance protest activity with a major religious gathering taking place at the same time, which he referred to as a 'secret event'. Footage has emerged of a man pinned to the light rail tracks on George Street by police before being repeatedly punched by an officer 'What we can reveal today that we couldn't say yesterday for operational reasons, is that there were 7000 Jewish mourners in the same city at the same time that police had to keep separate from protesters,' he said. Minns repeated police proposals to hold the protest in Hyde Park and allow a march down College Street were rejected, leaving officers to manage what he described as a rapidly deteriorating situation on Monday night. 'Now that is a dynamic and difficult situation for NSW Police, and in the circumstances, you can't just look at an individual clip. You have to look at the last week of trying to de-escalate the situation that was rejected by the protester organisers,' he said. 'NSW Police tried everything possible to avoid a confrontation last night. 'I think a fair minded person would look at their engagement with the Palestinian Action Group over the last seven days and see repeated pleas from NSW Police to hold this protest in Hyde Park and have a march down College Street immediately or persistently rejected by the protest organisers.' Former prime minister Tony Abbott said police should be praised. 'My blood has boiled for the last two years to see the way these intimidatory pro-terrorist protests have taken over our city streets, week after week, and I just think that we needed to see a bit of strength from the authorities,' Abbott said. 'As for thoughts that the police who punched a protester who dragged one of their colleagues off a bike, I think those police should be given a quiet commendation, not face an investigation. A man was seen to be punched by police as officers attempted to disperse the crowd Pro-Palestine protesters in Sydney were pepper-sprayed by police after clashes broke out when they refused to disperse 'If this continues, I hope we'll see an absolutely escalated police response. I think we need to see more police forces. I think we need to see tear gas and rubber bullets if need be these people who are trying to intimidate the Australian community need to know that it is the forces of law and order who are in charge.' Palestine Action Group spokesman Josh Lees said the authorities' response amounted to 'sickening police brutality'. 'This sickening violence by police last night is exactly a result of the ramping up and up and up of police powers in this state of the crazy authoritarian announcements made by Chris Minns,' he told ABC Radio. 'Last night is exactly a result of the ramping up and up and up of police powers in this state of the crazy authoritarian announcements made by Chris Minns, and he clearly wanted us out of sight, out of mind, and that's why we refused to go to Hyde Park. 'I've been to many protests over the years, and this is the worst I've ever seen, where the police were absolutely off the chain. 'What we did was have a mass peaceful protest at Town Hall. At the end of our speakers, some people, I understand I was up at the speaker's platform, did try to move towards parliament. 'They were kettled in by police. And then, as people were trying to leave after that, police charged horses into the crowd.' Lees has organised another protest to be held outside Surry Hills Police Station at 5.30pm tonight, calling for demonstrators to rally against what he describes as 'police brutality'. Abigail Boyd (pictured) said she blamed Premier Chris Minns for her injury from the protest A sign at the protest demanded that Penny Wong, Anthony Albanese and Richard Marles be arrested There were protests in more than a dozen major Australian cities over Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to the country. He attended a 'light and solidarity' event at Sydney's International Convention Centre on Monday night The fresh rally comes after chaotic scenes unfolded late Monday night as police moved to disperse crowds and bring the Town Hall protest to a close. As the demonstration drew to an end, parts of the crowd began moving away, with some trying to leave while others called on the hundreds of surrounding police to allow them to march. Although people were allowed to leave via the south side of the block, police restricted movement around most of the square and would not let protesters march, forcing the large group into gridlock. Protesters' chants soon grew louder and the police presence swelled. Officers issued a move-on order, but many within the densely packed crowd of about 5,000 were unclear on directions, and the situation quickly went downhill. Police on foot and on horseback formed a front and rushed at protesters as they attempted to disperse the group. Media, including photographers and those with press passes displayed, were forcibly pushed away from the scene by officers. The streets were lined with medics kneeling over pepper-sprayed protesters, pouring water into their eyes as they coughed and spluttered. NSW Greens Upper House MP Abigail Boyd said she was injured during the clashes. There were reports of people throwing up after they were pepper-sprayed Thousands marched from Town Hall towards NSW Parliament in Sydney Police were out in force with hundreds of officers on the streets and rooftops of Sydney's CBD Boyd posted a photo of her injury on social media, directly blaming the NSW Premier, writing: 'I blame Chris Minns.' Police said 27 people were arrested, including 10 for assaulting officers. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna said the protesters' behaviour was outrageous. 'We saw officers being threatened, jostled and assaulted,' he said. The NSW police union defended its members' response, saying their actions were proportionate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was devastated by the protests. 'These are really scenes that I think shouldn't be taking place. People should be able to express their views peacefully, but the police were very clear about the routes that were required if people wanted to march to go a particular route to ensure that this was done peacefully'. He defended the invitation extended to Herzog. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was devastated by the protests. He also defended the invitation extended to Israeli President Herzog 'He was invited because he's the head of state. He's the equivalent of the governor-general, and when the Jewish community asked for their head of state to visit, I think it is appropriate that people be allowed to mourn and to do so respectfully,' Albanese said during an interview with Triple M radio in Hobart. 'Now people will have different views about the Middle East, and we have been critical, and have received some criticism of the Israeli government,' he said. 'But we do need to be able to have people express any views peacefully in an appropriate way, and this visit is an important opportunity for President Herzog to stand with Jewish Australians and remember those innocent lives lost on December 14. 'Later this afternoon, I will be with President Herzog visiting families who have lost loved ones, and people surely should be able to respect that while maintaining whatever position it is that they have on the Middle East. 'I think that Australians want two things. They don't want conflict brought here. They want killing to stop, whether it's Israelis or Palestinians, but they do not want conflict brought here. 'These are scenes that I think shouldn't be taking place.' Prior to the chaos, the crowd stood peacefully and chanted in between speeches from people such as former Australian of the Year Grace Tame, Jewish academic Antony Loewenstein, and Amnesty International Australia spokesman Mohamed Duar. Herzog visited the scene of the terror attack on Monday and is set to attend more community events on Tuesday. President Herzog said the demonstrations 'undermine and delegitimise' Israel's existence Asked by if he had a message to protesters, he claimed the demonstrations 'undermine and delegitimise' Israel's existence. He previously said Palestinians bore collective blame for Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, before later walking back the remarks. A United Nations Human Rights Council commission of inquiry in September found the statement might reasonably have been interpreted as inciting genocide. Nigel Farage has put Reform on a 'war footing' and said the party will be ready for Government within a month or two as he claimed Labour's descent into chaos means a general election could come as early as this year. Rallying his troops at a Reform event in Birmingham, Mr Farage said on Monday he had opened applications on the party's website for Britain's 'brightest and best' to run as his candidates for the next general election calling on his 'people's army' to answer the charge. Mr Farage told the 2,500-strong crowd that he would announce his shadow cabinet in 'the next few days' in preparation for a Reform Government, with a focus on bringing in talent from outside politics. This comes as the party revealed on Monday night that Simon Dudley, former chair of Homes England, had joined Reform. With Sir Keir clinging on to power, the Reform leader said he is determined to have a fighting-fit candidate list ready to enter a general election as soon as this year if the Prime Minister does resign. The Labour leader is currently scrambling to save his premiership, after it emerged last week he had appointed Peter Mandelson to US envoy despite knowing he was friends with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar on Monday called for the PM to resign, after his chief of staff handed in his notice at the weekend, and his comms director followed him out the door. Nigel Farage fired Reform T-shirts into the crowd at the Birmingham NEC Centre on Monday - as he called for Britain's 'brightest and best' to run as candidates for MPs Mr Farage was joined by his eight Reform MPs on stage after announcing he would reveal his shadow cabinet in coming days But Sir Keir's Cabinet ministers rallied round their leader pledging loyalty temporarily staving off any leadership challenge. Soft-left agitator Angela Rayner even said the Prime Minister had her 'full support' as she urged Labour MPs to 'come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team'. Claiming that none of his Cabinet 'want to appear to be the person that wields the knife' that takes down Sir Keir, Mr Farage predicted the PM will soon be 'gone and replaced by somebody undoubtedly far worse'. Mr Farage warned that the 'lunacy' over Angela Rayner's employment reforms would be the tip of the iceberg if she were to take over from Sir Keir, while Reform chief whip Lee Anderson suggested the former deputy prime minister had been 'throwing money away' after footage emerged this weekend of her having a fresh haircut. But Mr Farage stopped short of saying Reform is now ready to take the keys of No 10 should the Labour Government fall. He said: 'We've really only been properly in gear for the last 18, 20 months. 'What we've achieved in that short space of time is truly remarkable, but it's rather like building a company: the first 25 per cent takes a long time, and then once you've got things moving, things slip into gear very quickly. 'I said a couple of weeks ago, we were 50 per cent prepared. 'I would argue, within a month or two months, we will genuinely be ready, certainly more ready than all of the others.' Setting out his plans for power, Mr Farage said Reform is working on plans to revolutionise the civil service. Reform have promised to axe 68,500 jobs in the civil service should they succeed at the polls and to reduce the salary bill by 17 per cent. Mr Farage joked that the first civil servants to get the chop will be those 'saying that they're suffering through emotional trauma at the prospect of a Reform Government'. But Reform has come in for criticism as Worcestershire county council, led by the party, looks set to issue England's largest council tax rise this April. Sir Keir's Cabinet ministers rallied round their leader pledging loyalty - temporarily staving off any leadership challenge - after the PM revealed he had known about Peter Mandelson's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him US ambassador Mr Farage on Monday called Worcestershire county council a 'total basket case', adding 'never once' did Reform pledge to cut council tax. While Reform has accepted many former Conservative MPs and ministers into its ranks in recent weeks, Mr Farage insisted yesterday there is a 'clear dividing line' between his party and Labour and the Tories who both believe 'the country is not broken'. Recent Tory defector Robert Jenrick said at the rally his former party 'don't walk the same streets' to see Britain's decline. Former Conservative MP Suella Braverman, meanwhile, said she had 'had enough of Tory delusion.' Hitting back at Reform, Conservative Kevin Hollinkrake said: 'Nigel Farage is very good at shouting 'Broken Britain' from the sidelines, but very light on credible answers. 'Reform's entire pitch still boils down to his one-man-band protest politics and wish lists. It's not a serious plan to govern.' Reform's first electoral test will be at the local elections on May 7 a date the Reform leader said he approached with a 'growing sense of optimism every day'. Keir Starmer was clinging to power on Monday evening after the Cabinet gave him a late stay of execution. The Prime Minister was rocked when the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar dramatically called on him to resign for the good of the country in the wake of the Mandelson scandal. Mr Sarwar, once an ally of Sir Keir, said there had been 'too many mistakes' in Downing Street. 'I have to be honest about failure wherever I see it,' he said. 'The distraction has to end, the leadership has to change.' Mr Sarwar told the PM of his move in advance, triggering panic in No 10 and sparking a major rescue operation. One Labour source said ministers were told to voice their support for the PM by the end of the day or face the sack. Sir Keir was already reeling from the departure of his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney on Sunday, who was followed out of the door by his communications director Tim Allan on Monday morning. And Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald was on the brink of joining the Downing Street exodus on Monday evening - just a year after Sir Keir appointed him. Keir Starmer's Cabinet gave him a late stay of execution, finally backing him in the face of Anas Sarwar after refusing to do so for 24hours following McSweeney's dramatic exit Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for Starmer's resignation after 'too many mistakes in Downing Street' on Monday morning (pictured) Cabinet ministers had refused to publicly back the embattled Prime Minister for more than 24 hours after Mr McSweeney's dramatic departure. Private discussions were held about the possibility of replacing him with an interim leader such as Defence Secretary John Healey. But, with leadership rivals not ready to make their move and financial markets wobbling over the prospect of a chaotic contest, they finally bowed to No 10's demands to issue public statements of support. In a belated flurry of posts on social media, which began as Mr Sarwar got to his feet, every member of the Cabinet gave the Prime Minister their broad support. And in a defiant address to Labour MPs later, Sir Keir vowed to battle on, saying: 'Every fight I've ever been in, I have won.' Join the debate Does this look like loyalty or fear of chaos? On another dramatic day in Westminster: Allies of Health Secretary Wes Streeting claimed No 10 had falsely accused him of being in league with Mr Sarwar at the very moment he was recording a TV interview backing the PM Mr Streeting published details of his email exchanges with Peter Mandelson in a bid to draw a line under claims by leadership rivals that his ambitions will be derailed by their past friendship Messages revealed that Mr Streeting moaned privately about Labour's performance, including complaining the Government has 'no growth strategy at all' Details emerged of a 'Rayner for Leader' website apparently launched by supporters of the former deputy PM and accidentally set live, briefly, last month A Find Out Now poll of 2,000 voters found the public want Sir Keir to resign by a margin of 50:22. Wes Streeting has long been earmarked as a potential opponent for Labour leadership. He spoke during a visit to Maggie's Cancer Centre at the Royal Free Hospital in London, February 4, 2026 John Healey was the subject of talk to be an interim leader of Labour. He spoke during a visit to the aerospace, defence and security company, Leonardo UK, in Edinburgh, January 22, 2026 Sir Keir started the day isolated after agreeing the departure of Mr McSweeney, who is credited for masterminding Labour's landslide election victory in 2024. No 10 was initially unable to persuade ministers to take to the airwaves to defend the PM amid public revulsion at his decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the US despite knowing he had remained friends with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein following his conviction for child sex offences. But Mr Sarwar's intervention forced senior Labour figures to make a snap decision to either back the PM or move against him. None of Sir Keir's likely successors, including Angela Rayner and Mr Streeting, are confident of winning an immediate battle - and Labour sources said there was strong opposition within the party to triggering a contest before vital local elections in May. On Monday evening, Ms Rayner denied any links to the website, with her team dismissing it as a 'fake' that had neither been commissioned by her, nor with her knowledge, while one ally described it as a 'false flag' operation. Ms Rayner and Mr Streeting's decision to back down gives Sir Keir some breathing space to try to regain control of the Government which has been hit with a wave of anger over the Mandelson scandal. However, Labour MPs warned that Sir Keir could still be forced out if the party loses a looming by-election in Manchester this month or suffers a wipeout in May, when Scottish and Welsh parliamentary elections will be held alongside a major round of council elections in England. Veteran Labour MP Graham Stringer said the PM 'cannot survive this amount of chaos', adding: 'I think we have to wait and see the [election] results... that will give Labour MPs time to sort through what is the right process.' Labour MP Peter Lamb urged the PM to name his departure date now. Writing in The House magazine, he said: 'He can wait until May and force the country to endure the chaos of removing a sitting PM... or he can act now.' Morgan McSweeney resigned as Keir Starmer's chief of staff after it was revealed he pushed for Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson has been the subject of scandal over his links with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Here he appears to be pictured standing in Y fronts with an unidentified woman in the Epstein files Angela Rayner is another front runner to the Labour leadership as Starmer falters. She spoke at the Greenock Arts Centre May 31, 2024 The PM insisted he wanted to take on Farage at the next election. Here, he speaks at a Reform UK rally in Birmingham, February, 2026 Ministers also warned the PM that he would have to make radical changes to survive. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall backed him to stay to 'steady the ship', but added: 'We also need to change course.' Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged that the Government had 'made mistakes' but insisted Sir Keir would still be Prime Minister by the summer. In his address to the Labour Party on Monday evening, the PM insisted he wanted to stay to take on Nigel Farage at the next election. 'Having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done,' he said. Sir Keir went on to describe the battle with Reform UK as the 'fight of our lives, the fight of our times'. He added: 'I'll tell you this, as long as I have breath in my body, I'll be in that fight, on behalf of the country that I love and I believe in, against those that want to tear it up.' A monthlong pursuit in Venezuela stretching all the way around the Indian Ocean resulted in US forces capturing on oil tanker that attempted to flee quarantine. The tanker, the Aquila II, is the eighth ship captured by the US since the Trump administration first started their crusade against illegal oil shipments in the Caribbean hoping to cut off Venezuela's main profits. The Aquila II, was among the several vessels that attempted to escape the area early January shortly after President Trump captured Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's then president. 'It ran, and we followed,' Hegseth said on X, sending a threat to future tankers and operators. 'By land, air or sea, our Armed Forces will find you and deliver justice. You will run out of fuel long before you will outrun us.' The US reportedly sanctioned the vessel on Jan. 10 saying it was transporting Russian oil. Prior, it was already sanctioned by the UK for it's connections to Russia. In a Department of War post, a video attached shows US troops moving swiftly towards the ship, propelling onto the deck. 'When the Department of War says quarantine, we mean it. Nothing will stop DOW from defending our Homeland even in oceans halfway around the world,' the post on X read. The Aquila II reportedly loaded nearly 1 million barrels of crude oil at Venezuela's Jose terminal on Dec. 6. A monthlong pursuit in Venezuela stretching all the way around the Indian Ocean, resulted in U.S. forces capturing on oil tanker that attempted flee quarantine In a Department of War post, a video attached shows U.S. troops moving swiftly towards the ship, propelling onto the deck The US seizure of the tanker Aquila II marks the eighth vessel intercepted by American forces since the Trump administration imposed a 'complete blockade' on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers in December. US Southern Command confirmed the operation on social media, stating the vessel was apprehended 'without incident' while 'operating in defiance of President Trump's established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.' SOUTHCOM did not confirm whether the U.S. Coast Guard led the boarding party, as it has in previous operations. Video posted on X showed troops rappelling from a helicopter onto a tanker deck during a pre-dawn Caribbean seizure. Marines and sailors captured the vessel without resistance, the military command responsible for Central and South America said. 'The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully,' SOUTHCOM said. President Trump imposed the blockade on December 16. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it one of the largest 'quarantines' in modern history, adding Sunday that it is successfully 'paralysing' the regime's ability to generate revenue. The tanker, the Aquila II, is the eight ship captured by the U.S. since the Trump administration first started their crusade against illegal oil shipments in the Caribbean hoping to cut off Venezuela's main profits The tanker Bertha, one of several that appear to have attempted to evade the US naval blockade of Venezuela Before the Aquila II, the takeover of the Motor Vessel Sagitta marked the seventh vessel to be intercepted by American forces as the Trump administration tightens its grip on South American oil exports Following the capture of Maduro by US Special Forces, Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that while the US does not intend to govern Venezuela, the Trump administration will maintain its 'oil quarantine' on all vessels entering or exiting the country. A fleet on Iranian tankers was also apprehended as reported exclusively by the Daily Mail. Despite a long history of brazenly transporting sanctioned Iranian oil, the Iranian 'shadow fleet' of Iranianlinked vessels have been seen sailing just miles from the American coastline as President Trump continues his unrelenting bombardment of alleged drug boats. A bombshell report obtained exclusively by the Daily Mail exposes a deep, clandestine network of 20 illicit tankers currently lurking in Caribbean waters, serving as a lifeline for the regimes of Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, Iran and Russia. The King is facing growing calls to issue an official apology after fresh allegations that Jeffrey Epstein facilitated sexual encounters for the then-Prince Andrew at royal residences. Victims of the paedophile financier said the monarch needed to take accountability for the 'organisation's failings' and should also apologise to the family of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's late accuser Virginia Giuffre. Buckingham Palace has never acknowledged wrongdoing or formally apologised over Andrew's relationship with Epstein. It has been accused of delivering nothing more than 'lip service' in statements about the scandal. Now lawyers for a second woman who claims Epstein sent her to the UK for a sexual encounter with Andrew at Royal Lodge in 2010 have urged King Charles to issue a 'real apology'. Brad Edwards, from US law firm Edwards Henderson, said: 'To the King I would say: why not at least listen to the details of the story? 'After that issue a sincere, real apology on behalf of Andrew and any role played by the Royal Family. That world was only possible because Andrew was who he was.' He added that the victims wanted 'a real apology not just lip service'. King Charles is being called to make an official apology by lawyers of the second woman who claims she was sent to Andrew for sex by Epstein The King is also facing calls to apologise to the late accuser Virginia Guiffre's family after the royals have never acknowledged any wrong doing. Pictured with Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell Epstein survivor Marijke Chartouni told the Daily Mail: 'The Royal Family is a carefully managed endeavour and so claiming ignorance to Andrew's activities is absurd. It's time for the King to address his organisation's failings.' Another survivor, Maria Farmer, said it was 'shocking the royals have still not issued an apology' to the family of Ms Giuffre, who died by suicide last year after insisting she had sex with Andrew on three occasions aged 17. Last October, the King stripped Andrew of all his remaining titles most notably that of his birthright of prince and forced him out of his Windsor home Royal Lodge. It was made clear at the time the decision had been made due to serious and prolific lapses in Andrew's judgment, despite him continuing to vehemently deny the allegations against him. Notably, both the King and his wife made a point of saying 'their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse'. It was the first time any such expression had been issued by the palace and came directly from Charles and Camilla. Last week, Prince Edward became the first royal to comment on the latest Epstein files, saying it is 'really important to remember the victims'. A royal source told the Daily Mail last night: 'Their Majesties' thoughts and sympathies have been and remain with the victims of any and all forms of abuse, as remains the case today.' It comes amid renewed calls for a criminal investigation as disturbing new details about Andrew's activities continue to emerge in the latest tranche of three million documents released in the Epstein files by the US Department of Justice. The King is facing growing calls to issue an official apology after fresh allegations that Jeffrey Epstein facilitated sexual encounters for the then Prince Andrew at royal residences. Victims of the paedophile financier said the monarch needed to take accountability for the 'organisation's failings' and should also apologise to the family of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's late accuser Virginia Giuffre. Buckingham Palace has never acknowledged wrongdoing or formally apologised over Andrew's relationship with the Epstein. It has been accused of delivering nothing more than 'lip service' in statements about the scandal. Now lawyers for a second woman who claims Epstein sent her to the UK for a sexual encounter with Andrew at Royal Lodge in 2010 have urged Charles to issue a 'real apology'. And Kensington Palace said today that Prince William and Kate have been 'deeply concerned' by the ongoing revelations from the Epstein scandal. Meanwhile Charles was heckled again today about Andrew and Epstein while meeting members of the public outside Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire. Separately, A.N Wilson wrote in today's Daily Mail that Charles must now apologise to Epstein's victims. Do you agree? Vote in today's poll of the day: In the previous poll, Mail readers were asked: 'Would Angela Rayner be a successful prime minister?' Out of more than 36,000 votes, 96 per cent of you said 'no' and 4 per cent said 'yes'. Meghan Markle strayed from her minimalist fashion sensibilities for her most recent red carpet event. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, channelled 'Old Hollywood' glamour as she made a solo appearance at the Fifteen Percent Pledge fundraising gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night. In a nod to the organisation's mission supporting black-owned brands and businesses, Meghan wore a custom Charles Harbison strapless gown and cape worth nearly $9,000. While the outfit drew mixed reviews online, the Duchess's choice of jewellery was widely praised as fans noticed her 'exquisite' vintage accessories sourced by a Beverly Hills-based atelier. The former Suits actress donned onyx and diamond pendant earrings with a fluted bomb ring, circa 1970s, from Maison Merenor, with the set estimated to be worth between 12,000 and 20,000. Its founder, Amie Satchu, documented Meghan's look on the Californian estate jewellery brand's Instagram page on Sunday. One carousel post included photos of the Duchess taken at the gala and was captioned: 'Meghan Markle steps into the spotlight at the Fifteen Pecent Pledge Gala, channelling the timeless allure of Old Hollywood.' The brand also posted a video of Meghan's best red carpet moments from the event while praising her 'incredibly elegant' look. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, channelled 'Old Hollywood' glamour as she made a solo appearance at the Fifteen Percent Pledge fundraising gala in Los Angeleson Saturday night While the outfit drew mixed reviews online, the Duchess's choice of jewellery was widely praised as fans noticed her 'exquisite' vintage accessories sourced by a Beverly Hills-based atelier Attending the event without husband Prince Harry, Meghan opted for a $4,195 (around 3,100) floor-length pink dress from Charles Harbison's eponymous brand. She paired it with Harbison Studio's $4,495 'Galaxy' cape, with a long trail and dramatic, puffed sleeves. She finished her look with the onyx accessories that were a 'study in controlled elegance and intention,' according to jewellery expert Nilesh Rakholia. The founder of Abelini, Mr Rakholia praised Meghan's decision to wear pieces that aligned 'with the purpose of the evening' rather than creating a red carpet 'spectacle'. He told the Daily Mail: 'Meghans jewellery styling reflects a broader shift were seeing at purpose-led events: luxury expressed through refinement, not excess. 'The pieces are elegant, intentional, and quietly assured, proving that sometimes the strongest statement jewellery can make is knowing when to step back.' The founder of the New York-based luxury womenswear label is a favourite of stars including Beyonce and Mindy Kaling - who appeared on Meghan's Netflix show - as well as Olympic gymnast Simone Biles. Dripping in jewellery, Meghan appeared relaxed at the gala honouring Beyonce's mother, Tina Knowles, for her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to empowering Black communities and creators. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a foundation focused on building sustainable, thriving networks where Black-owned businesses can flourish. Founded by Canadian creative director Aurora James, the charity works with businesses to support and advance equity. The charity's name is a nod to the 'Black people who make up 15 per cent of the US population'. The gala hosted by CNN news anchor Abby Phillip is part of the 15th Street Block Party Weekend at Paramount Studios. The former Suits actress donned onyx and diamond pendant earrings with a fluted bomb ring, circa 1970s, from Maison Merenor A closer look at Meghan's statement ring Meghan joined British fashion entrepreneur Emma Grede, as well as celebrities such as Winnie Harlow, Chloe Bailey, and Zendaya's stylist Law Roach at the high-profile event on Saturday. The designer behind Meghan's couture gown, Charles Harbison, was also present and posted an Instagram story of him and the Duchess hugging and holding hands at the gala. The clip is captioned: 'Me and the duchess in @harbison.studio.' The event follows the charity's fourth annual gala last weekend, attended by the likes of Kelly Rowland and Kim Kardashian. It comes after Meghan recently revealed her early Valentine's Day surprise for husband, Prince Harry. A clip posted to Instagram documented Meghan walking up to a beaming Prince Harry, who was busy working at a desk in his home office, with a selection of chocolate bars from her lifestyle brand, As Ever. In the short video, Meghan approaches Harry and hands over the chocolate - to which the Prince says 'Oh' before turning his response into an 'Oooh' and picking out a bar. He then says 'love you', with a cheeky smile still on his face. The bars of chocolate - which sold out within minutes following their initial release - use Meghan's 'signature ingredients' from her As Ever brand such as raspberry spread and flower sprinkles, to 'spark a little sweet nostalgia'. Meghan also gave fans a glimpse inside Harry's 'man cave' in their Montecito home - complete with a model helicopter, a poster with the word 'Papa' on it, and the prince's military badges. Police were today investigating allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as the UK's trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein. Emails released by the US Department of Justice on January 30 appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special advisor, Amit Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and trade talks. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand province, Afghanistan. Today, a Thames Valley Police spokesman told the Daily Mail: 'We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures.' Andrew could now face prosecution after Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy group Republic, reported him to the force which polices the Windsor area. Mr Smith tweeted today: 'I have now reported Andrew to the @ThamesVP for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets in relation to these specific allegations. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson.' Andrew could technically be criminally prosecuted, given the King is the only member of the Royal Family who has sovereign immunity. In 2002, Princess Anne became the first Royal Family member to be convicted of a criminal offence when she was fined 500 after one of her dogs bit two children in Windsor Great Park. Mr Smith later told the Daily Mail that 'past experience' of previous complaints he has made would suggest police will take no action in this case, but added: 'We're getting into unprecedented territory. This lack of action is becoming unsustainable. We'll have to wait and see.' Andrew features a number of times in the documents, including images apparently showing him crouching over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epstein's New York mansion The email from the files appears to show Andrew forwarded on reports from his trade envoy trips to Epstein five minutes after he got them from his then-special adviser, Amit Patel Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor rides a horse in Windsor Great Park near Royal Lodge last week Melania Trump, Andrew, Gwendolyn Beck and Jeffrey Epstein at Mar-a-Lago in Florida in 2000 He cited how detectives launched an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office last week, adding that the case had 'thrown a spotlight onto this lack of action' by the Royal Family and there was now a 'very clear blueprint'. Mr Smith also said he believed heckling of Royal Family members over the Epstein case was 'going to carry on' because 'people are not happy' and this could force the royals into further action because they do 'not like that challenging in their face'. Broadcaster Piers Morgan also said on X: 'After today's revelations that Andrew leaked confidential trade envoy secrets to Epstein, King Charles should order him to be interviewed by UK police about that, and by US investigators about wider Epstein scandal. If Andrew refuses, banish him.' Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The messages were sent after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Andrew previously told BBC's Newsnight in 2019 he had cut off contact with the convicted paedophile in December 2010 during a visit to New York. On February 9, 2011, Andrew told Epstein he had visited a private equity firm the week before and 'thought of you' as the financier was reportedly 'looking for somewhere for money to go'. Official government guidance underscores that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. 'This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits,' the guidance read. Your browser does not support iframes. Graham Smith (pictured in 2023), chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, has reported Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to Thames Valley Police King Charles III leaves Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire today to meet well-wishers Andrew and Charles at the Duchess of Kent's funeral at Westminster Cathedral last September 'This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply.' The former duke served as the UK's special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. Vince Cable, business secretary at the time, told the BBC of the emails: 'I was unaware of Andrew... sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before, this is the first I've heard of it.' The former duke features a number of times in the latest release of documents, including images apparently showing him crouching over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epstein's New York mansion. In 2022, the former duke paid millions of pounds to Virginia Giuffre, his main accuser, despite claiming never to have met her. The King later stripped him of his titles following the posthumous release of a book by Ms Giuffre, who alleges she was trafficked by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, at the age of 17. Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge and relocated to Norfolk to a property on the King's Sandringham estate earlier this month, reported to be Wood Farm Cottage, where he will stay temporarily. It is understood the former duke's new home of Marsh Farm is not yet fully ready, but he is expected to move in by the start of April. Andrew still has the lease for his Windsor property until October, but it is understood he has made the substantive part of his move to his new home. A photo of Jeffrey Epstein which was in the latest files from the US Department of Justice However, it may take some weeks to complete and the former prince is likely to be seen at Royal Lodge on occasion. Meanwhile, Kensington Palace said today that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been 'deeply concerned' by the ongoing revelations from the Epstein scandal involving Andrew. It is the first time the views of William and Kate have been known about the crisis that has engulfed the monarchy and Westminster, and their thoughts 'remain focused on the victims'. The prince is en route to Saudi Arabia for the start of a three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with the Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ahead of the visit, a Kensington Palace spokesman said: 'I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. 'Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.' Much of the work of the royal family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, reignited when a huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein were released by US authorities. These sparked a string of allegations against William's uncle and have led to police launching an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. King Charles III was heckled again today over his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's links to Jeffrey Epstein while meeting members of the public in Lancashire. The monarch was meeting well-wishers outside Clitheroe railway station when one man shouted: 'Charles, how long have you known about Andrew and Epstein?' Boos were then heard from other members of the crowd as well as shouts of 'Shut up' and 'Kick him out', before they began to cheer as the heckler was removed. The visit follows Charles being questioned by journalists and heckled about Epstein during an official visit to Dedham in Essex with Queen Camilla last Thursday. The monarch's arrival in Clitheroe came less than two hours after Kensington Palace said the Prince and Princess of Wales have been 'deeply concerned' by the ongoing revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal involving Andrew. Much of the work of the Royal Family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, reignited when a huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein were released by US authorities on January 30. These sparked a string of allegations against the King's brother and have led to police launching a probe into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epstein's Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UK's trade envoy. The former duke, stripped of his titles by the King last year, has always denied any wrongdoing and last week he finally left Royal Lodge for the Sandringham estate. King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III views Pearl the fell pony during his visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III is guided by Gill Hall (left) as he visits Butlers' cheese campus in Preston today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning Your browser does not support iframes. Ahead of William's visit to Saudi Arabia today, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said: 'I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.' It was the first time the views of William and Kate have been known about the crisis that has engulfed the monarchy and Westminster. The prince is en route to Saudi Arabia for the start of a three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with the Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The King was in Lancashire today to meet farmers and local business owners this morning. He arrived by royal train, which will be decommissioned next year due to the cost of maintenance and need for modernisation. Its most recent carriages were last updated in the 1980s. Pupils from Clitheroe St James's, Sabden primary and Barrow primary waved flags and shouted, 'It's the King', as his train arrived. He was then greeted by Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, at the station, before meeting members of the public outside. The Slaidburn silver band played a welcome as he accepted gifts and shook hands. The arrival in Clitheroe marked Charles's second visit to Lancashire as monarch, following a trip to Lancaster in June. He previously visited Clitheroe as the Prince of Wales in 2017 for a food festival. Members of the public wait to meet King Charles III at Clitheroe station in Lancashire today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III views Pearl the fell pony during his visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart today King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III tastes cheese as he visits the Butlers' cheese campus in Preston today King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III looks at sheep at Clitheroe Auction Mart in Lancashire this afternoon The Royal Train, carrying King Charles III, arrives at Clitheroe train station this morning King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III waves following his visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart in Lancashire today Christine Dilworth, 66, a pub owner from Pendleton, gave some daffodils to the King. She described herself as a big fan of the Royal Family who had welcomed Charles last time he came to Clitheroe. 'He's now our King and I think they do a fantastic job for the country, they work tirelessly and the revenue which they bring in,' she said. On the heckling, Ms Dilworth said: 'I think people should put that behind them. 'The last thing I want is someone coming out with something they don't need to come out with and spoiling it for other people.' Later, the King gave his backing to farmers and praised how 'vital' they are for the country during a visit to an auction mart. Charles told them 'I do appreciate what you have to put up with' and said it is 'remarkable how you manage'. He also said he hopes his Countryside Fund, which he started nearly 20 years ago as Prince of Wales, contributes to their welfare. It comes as farmers struggle around the country, with data for McCain Foods' inaugural Farmdex report in November suggesting a third are making a loss or breaking even. The King met farmers with rare breed sheep and cattle, as well as field nurses who support welfare. He also met a fell pony called Pearl, who is related to the late Queen Elizabeth II's fell Emma who famously lined Windsor's Long Walk for her after her funeral. King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III views Pearl the fell pony during his visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today Members of the public wait to meet King Charles III at Clitheroe station in Lancashire today But Pearl got startled as a crowd applauded when he unveiled a plaque at the Clitheroe Auction Mart in Lancashire. The King told a crowd: 'Before we startle the horses even more I just wanted to say what an enormous pleasure it is to be able to join you briefly on what I suspect is an especially organised occasion here at the mart when you should be doing other things on your farms.' He then joked about the chairman of the mart, Rod Spence, saying: 'For me it's a particular pleasure to be find such an eminent tenant of the Duchy of Lancaster. It's marvellous to see.' He continued: 'As the chairman was saying I promise I know only too well how vital the rural sector and the farming sector is to this country. 'Having started the countryside fund nearby 20 years ago, I hope that that is at least contributing to the welfare and I hope also the adaptability of farmers too and the endless challenges and complications you have to meet. 'For me I do have some appreciation for what you have to put up with. Thank God for marts like this and for all the people associated with it like the Field Nurses. 'I can only hope you have as successful coming season as possible, weather permitting, climate change permitting and everything else. It is remarkable how you manage. Thank you for all your efforts.' Mr Spence told him: 'Auction marts play a vital part in farmers trading the life stock and also a social focus for their well-being in what would otherwise be an isolating place on the farm. 'Agricultural shows also have an important role to play. We are delighted that you've visited us today.' Before giving his speech the King met Pearl. He smiled as he stroked her nose and spoke to owner Ben Thorpe about her. Pearl was given to farmer Mr Thorpe, 39, and wife Eleanor, 32, as a wedding present after they married in 2023. King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today Members of the public wait to meet King Charles III at Clitheroe station in Lancashire today King Charles III views Pearl the fell pony during his visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart today King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning Mr Thorpe said ahead of the visit: 'She's part of the family. It's like having a dog - it's the same sort of relationship. She will be with us forever.' Earlier Charles spoke to Field Nurses who visit the auction marts and support the well-being of farmers in what can be an isolated industry. He was told that farmers feel more 'comfortable' talking at the auction marts 'because it is on their environment'. The King told founders Richard Schofield and Roger Dugdale he was 'so proud' of his Countryside Fund. He also met representatives from seven agricultural shows, as well as owners of rare-breed sheep from his Duchy of Lancaster. Tracy Pickard, 53, showed the King a rare breed Lonks sheep. She said: 'It was great. It was lovely to speak to him. Very normal and friendly. He had a lot of interest. He's well known for supporting farmers and the countryside. He joked about how my family won't see me much because I'm always out on the farm.' George Morton, who also shoes a Lonks sheep, said: 'It was really good. He said 'fantastic head on the sheep'. 'I was telling him all these lambs were off him [the sheep]. I bought them for 8,000 so it was a really good investment. The King was very interested.' Sarah Whitwell, who showed the King a shorthorn cow with husband Graham and kids Thomas and Charlotte, said: 'It was wonderful. It was a real privilege for His Majesty to visit. He's a supporter of rural communities. 'I was thanking him about the Farmers Alliance programme. It's funded by the King's Countryside Fund. It's really valuable for farmers to come together.' Meanwhile the King is now facing growing calls to issue an official apology after fresh allegations that Epstein facilitated sexual encounters for the then Andrew at royal residences. Victims of the paedophile financier said the monarch needed to take accountability for the 'organisation's failings' and should also apologise to the family of Andrew's late accuser Virginia Giuffre. Buckingham Palace has never acknowledged wrongdoing or formally apologised over Andrew's relationship with the Epstein. It has been accused of delivering nothing more than 'lip service' in statements about the scandal. Now lawyers for a second woman who claims Epstein sent her to the UK for a sexual encounter with Andrew at Royal Lodge in 2010 have urged King Charles to issue a 'real apology'. Brad Edwards, from US law firm Edwards Henderson, said: 'To the King I would say: why not at least listen to the details of the story? King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III meets well-wishers as he arrives in Clitheroe for a visit to Lancashire today King Charles III is greeted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning 'After that issue a sincere, real apology on behalf of Andrew and any role played by the Royal Family. That world was only possible because Andrew was who he was.' He added that the victims wanted 'a real apology not just lip service'. Epstein survivor Marijke Chartouni told the Daily Mail: 'The Royal Family is a carefully-managed endeavour and so claiming ignorance to Andrew's activities is absurd. It's time for the King to address his organisation's failings.' Another survivor, Maria Farmer, said it was 'shocking the royals have still not issued an apology' to the family of Ms Giuffre, who died by suicide last year after insisting she had sex with Andrew on three occasions aged 17. Last October, the King stripped Andrew of all his remaining titles most notably that of his birthright of prince and forced him out of his Windsor home Royal Lodge. It was made clear at the time the decision had been made due to serious and prolific lapses in Andrew's judgment, despite him continuing to vehemently deny the allegations against him. Notably both the King and his wife made a point of saying 'their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse'. It was the first time any such expression had been issued by the palace and came directly from Charles and Camilla. Last week, Prince Edward became the first royal to comment on the latest Epstein files, saying it is 'really important to remember the victims'. King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning King Charles III meets 'Gloria' the corgi as he speaks with well-wishers in Clitheroe today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning Members of the public wait to meet King Charles III at Clitheroe station in Lancashire today King Charles III arrives at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire this morning A royal source told the Daily Mail last night: 'Their Majesties' thoughts and sympathies have been and remain with the victims of any and all forms of abuse, as remains the case today.' It comes amid renewed calls for a criminal investigation as disturbing new details about Andrew's activities continue to emerge in the latest tranche of three million documents released in the Epstein files by the US Department of Justice. Emails appear to reveal that Epstein took a 'very cute' Romanian model to meet Andrew at Buckingham Palace in 2010. The latest disclosures also raise serious questions about what Andrew's courtiers and personal protection officers knew of his activities. Emails show that two officers stayed with Andrew during a nine-day visit to Epstein's New York home in 2010. Speaking to Times Radio, the Met's former head of royal protection Dai Davies said it was 'incredibly damaging for the Metropolitan Police' that it had failed to launch an investigation over the years. 'I think it's scandalous.' Thames Valley Police said it is assessing the new allegations following the reports alleging a woman was 'taken to an address in Windsor in 2010 for sexual purposes'. Sweden's Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia have released a new photograph of their adorable daughter Princess Ines to mark her first birthday. The sweet photo was shared on the royal couple's official Instagram account on February 7, as they celebrated 'our little ray of sunshine' Ines. The tot - who is eighth in line to the throne - was dressed in a pastel blue frock with white ruffles as she happily posed for the cameras. The caption, translated from Swedish, read: 'Today we celebrate our little ray of sunshine Ines, who turns one year old.' Royal fans flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages as they wished baby Ines a happy birthday, with one person writing: 'She's so beautiful! 'Happy birthday, little Princess! God bless your life.' Another added: 'Happy Birthday to the sweetest princess!!' One person said she was beautiful 'just like her mother' Sofia, while another message read: 'Such a little sweetie. Just as cute as the brothers.' Sweden's Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia have released a new photograph of their adorable daughter Princess Ines (pictured) to mark her first birthday Baby Ines has four older brothers, Alexander, nine, Gabriel, seven, and Julian, four. She was christened at Drottningholm Palace Chapel near Stockholm during a lavish ceremony attended by Carl Philip's sisters, heir-to-the-throne Crown Princess Victoria and Princess Madeleine, last June. The parents-of-four were also joined at the christening by their sons, who looked adorable in matching white shirts and cream blazers. Among the glamorous guests were Carl Philip's parents, King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, as well as the newborn's older cousins, including Crown Princess Victoria's children, Princess Estelle, 13, and Prince Oscar, nine. The Swedish Palace announced Princess Ines' birth on February 7, 2025, with Princess Sofia and Prince Philip's daughter eighth in line to the throne. Days after the little one was born, Sofia and Carl Philip shared adorable photographs of their 'perfect quartet' on Instagram. In the first snap, the three older brothers admired their sister, who was wrapped in a warm blanket. The second image showed three-year-old Prince Julian sweetly pecking his younger sister on the forehead. The Instagram caption read: 'It turned out to be a perfect little quartet. Big and warm thanks for all the nice congratulations to our little Ines.' The chief priest, Bishop Johan Dalman, holds up Princess Ines after he baptises her. Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia are pictured on the right Prince Carl Philip with his daughter Princess Ines and wife Princess Sofia during the ceremony The parents-of-four were also joined at the christening by their sons, who looked adorable in matching white shirts and cream blazers. The family pictured alongside Princess Estelle Viewers flocked to the comment section to share their thoughts, including Princess Beatrice's husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, who wrote: 'Congratulations'. In a statement announcing Ines's birth last February, the Palace said Princess Sofia had welcomed a 'healthy' daughter, with her husband by her side. While she is eighth in line to the throne, Sofia and Carl Philip's child will not have an HRH style title because of a decision made by King Carl XVI Gustaf in 2019. During his Christmas speech, he revealed that he was stripping his grandchildren of their titles so that it could help them 'eventually carve out their own future'. The monarch said at the time: 'The decision was to make clear who within the royal family will act as official representatives of Sweden in the future. For me, this is a way of clarifying what expectations are. 'It will hopefully be helpful when my grandchildren eventually carve out their own future. But, to that day, it is far away.' Prince William arrived in Saudi Arabia today as he began a three-day tour of the country hours after publicly addressing the Jeffrey Epstein scandal for the first time. The Prince of Wales stepped off a Royal Air Force jet onto a purple carpet at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh shortly after 6pm local time (3pm UK time). Riyadh's Deputy Governor, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, welcomed him into the Royal Terminal with traditional hospitality of coffee and dates. William will later meet Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on a trip set to be the biggest diplomatic test to date of his overseas visits in support of the UK. The heir to the throne will hold talks with the leader known as MBS - followed by a private dinner at his farm in a world Unesco site in the Saudi capital. William's arrival came hours after he and his wife Kate expressed their concern amid the ongoing revelations surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The reignited crisis which has engulfed both the monarchy and Westminster has shown little sign of abating since the US authorities' dump of millions of documents associated with the paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein on January 30. Kensington Palace said this morning that William and Kate have been 'deeply concerned' and their thoughts remain focused on the victims. It was the first time the views of the prince and princess have been known on the scandal. Ahead of the visit, a palace spokesperson said: 'I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.' Prince William visited the Unesco World Heritage site At-Turaif Diriyah with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (pictured) The mud-brick citadel was once the seat of the Emirate of Diriyah, the First Saudi State in the 18th and 19th Centuries Prince William arrives today at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz welcomes Prince William to Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and William meet in Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz welcomes Prince William to Riyadh today Kensington Palace is said to have wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known, so William could focus on the trip. William is on a visit to the Gulf state at the request of the British Government, to strengthen ties with one of the UK's closest Middle East allies and a major religious and political player in the region. London and Riyadh are hopeful William and MBS, who have met before, will develop a connection - with any burgeoning relationship between the two royals likely to set the tone for Anglo-Saudi relations for decades to come. But the crown prince - known as MBS - is a controversial figure to the West, the head of an absolute monarchy whose regime has been accused of human rights violations, while the ruler is alleged to have links to the killing of a journalist. The Saudi ruler's reputation was badly damaged by a US intelligence determination that claimed he had ordered the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. A source said about the Saudis: 'They are delighted that he's here. The fact that he's a prince and the future king matters enormously. They want it to be a friendship that lasts.' Meanwhile much of the work of the Royal Family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, despite the King's attempts to draw a line under the matter when he banished Andrew in October by stripping him of his right to be a prince and of his dukedom. Also today, as the King arrived at Clitheroe train station this morning to greet crowds at the start of an awayday to Lancashire, a man shouted: 'How long have you known about Andrew?' The rest of the crowd booed after the question was asked. Join the debate Does William statement distance him clearly enough from Andrew? Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and William meet in Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz welcomes Prince William to Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz welcomes Prince William to Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and William meet in Riyadh today Prince William arrives today at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz welcomes Prince William to Riyadh today Just hours later, Thames Valley Police confirmed it was assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UK's trade envoy with sex offender Epstein. Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt called on the King to publicly make clear that Andrew should testify before US congress over his links to Epstein, and to support removing his brother from the line of succession. Mr Hunt said: 'The royals are rattled and rightly so, with the statement from William and Kate failing because it contains warm words, but no hard action. 'It's now time for King Charles to make clear publicly that he believes Andrew should testify before US lawmakers and that legislation needs to be passed to remove his brother as eighth in line to the throne. 'If he doesn't, Charles runs the risk of his reign being remembered as one where the British monarchy failed to properly support Epstein's victims.' Andrew, who was stripped of his titles by the King last year, has always denied any wrongdoing and last week finally left Royal Lodge for the monarch's private Sandringham estate, with Charles personally funding his new life with an annual stipend. The King also faced heckling on a visit to Dedham, Essex, last week when a man shouted: 'Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew?' In Clitheroe, other people wore Union flag hats to greet the King, and one brought a Corgi puppy to meet him. The crowd cheered as Charles waved goodbye before getting into a car. The fresh trove of documents released by the US department of justice have sparked a string of allegations against Andrew and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Prince William and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz touring the Unesco World Heritage site At-Turaif Diriyah The plane carrying Prince William arrives at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh today Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and William meet in Riyadh today Prince William arrives today at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Prince William arrives today at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and William meet in Riyadh today A man wearing a thawb waits for the arrival of Prince William at King Khalid International Airport Your browser does not support iframes. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in the latter's Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UK's trade envoy. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special adviser, Amir Patel. Another, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations to police. A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: 'We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures.' The Duke of Edinburgh was the first royal to publicly speak out since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to 'remember the victims' when asked how he was 'coping'. William and Kate supported the King's decision to strip his brother Andrew of his Prince and Duke of York titles and HRH style, a move that ended his public life. The couple also shared the sentiments of the Buckingham Palace statement at the time, which said: 'Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.' In 2022, the late Queen stripped her son Andrew of his honorary military roles and he gave up using his HRH style in a dramatic fallout from the civil sex case brought by Virginia Giuffre, who died last year from suicide. Ms Giuffre alleged she was forced to have sex three times with Andrew, which he vehemently denies, including when she was 17 and also during an orgy, after she was trafficked by Epstein. Andrew paid millions to settle the civil sex case with her in 2022, despite insisting he had never met her. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor appears to still be caring for the late Queen Elizabeth's corgis despite his eviction from the Royal Lodge in Windsor. The two pets were spotted being taken for a walk by the disgraced former Prince's private protection at his temporary accommodation at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate on Monday. Andrew, 65, and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, 66, had adopted the corgis, named Muick and Sandy, after the Queen's death in September 2022. However amid the Jeffrey Epstein scandal which has seen Andrew stripped of his titles, doubt was cast over whether he would continue looking after the pets. In a cryptic statement shared in October 2025 before Andrew's eviction, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the late Queen's dogs would 'stay with the family'. Yet reports which emerged a short time later suggested that King Charles wanted to remove Muick and Sandy from his younger brother's care. The pictures released on Monday now reveal that the corgis have indeed travelled with Andrew to his new Norfolk home, where he is staying while his permanent residence at Marsh Farm undergoes renovations. It means that Ferguson will be without the dogs while she continues her search for a new accommodation of her own. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor appears to still be caring for the late Queen Elizabeth's corgis despite his eviction from the Royal Lodge in Windsor The two pets were spotted being taken for a walk by the disgraced former Prince's private protection at his temporary accommodation at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate on Monday Amid the Jeffrey Epsteinscandal which has seen Andrew stripped of his royal titles and evicted from the Royal lodge, doubt was cast over whether he would continue looking after the pets (Pictured: Andrew in December 2022) Ferguson had gushed about being given the honour of looking after the Queen's pets as recently as a few months ago. In September, she posted on social media: 'Today marks three years since the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Her majesty will be forever loved, always missed, and never forgotten. 'Not a day goes by when I don't think of the kindness I was unstintingly shown in good times and bad. Caring for Her Majesty's beloved corgis is an honour and a daily reminder of the times we shared together.' News of the corgis staying with Andrew came just hours before the King spoke out for the first time about the allegations levelled against his younger brother. Following revelations about Andrew's friendship with Epstein, it was claimed on Monday that the disgraced Royal knowingly shared confidential information with the paedophile financier. The King expressed his 'profound concern' over the allegations in a statement shared by Buckingham Palace. A spokesman said on Monday evening: 'The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct. Join the debate Should the Royal Family cut all remaining ties with Andrew? It means that Ferguson, 66, will be without the two pets while she continues her search for a new accommodation of her own News of the corgis still being under Andrew's care comes on the same day that The King spoke out about the allegations against his brother for the first time (The pair pictured together in September 2025) Prince William and Princess of Wales Kate Middleton also addressed the scandal involving Andrew for the first time earlier on Monday (Pictured: Kate and William in July 2025) 'While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. 'As was previously stated, Their Majesties' thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse.' Prince William and Princess of Wales Kate Middleton also addressed the scandal involving Andrew for the first time earlier on Monday. Speaking to journalists in the Saudi capital Riyadh this morning, a Kensington Palace spokesman said: 'I can confirm the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. 'Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.' Emails in the files show the former Prince passing on secret details of investment opportunities to the convicted paedophile following his visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam in 2010 and 2011. This was after Epstein was first convicted for soliciting a child for prostitution in 2008, for which he was jailed for 18 months. Trade envoys are legally bound to confidentiality over sensitive, commercial or political information from their visits abroad. Emails suggest Andrew had told Epstein of his official upcoming trips to Singapore, Vietnam, Shenzhen in China and Hong Kong on October 7, 2010. He was then accompanied by business associates of Epstein on these visits, the BBC reported. After the trip, he forwarded official reports of the visits to Epstein on November 30, five minutes after he had been sent them by his then special adviser Amit Patel. In further emails from the files dated Christmas Eve 2010, it appears he sent Epstein a confidential briefing on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, which was being managed by the British armed forces and funded by UK government money. Following revelations about Andrew's friendship with Epstein, it was claimed on Monday that the disgraced royal knowingly shared confidential information with the paedophile financier The email from the files appears to show Andrew forwarded on reports from his trade envoy trips to Epstein five minutes after he got them from his then-special adviser, Amit Patel The messages contradict Andrew's claim that he broke off his friendship with the paedophile in December 2010, which he asserted in his disastrous BBC Newsnight interview in 2019. Another email has also opposed this claim, as it appears Andrew suggested Epstein should invest in a private equity firm he had visited a week before on February 9, 2011. Epstein was a convicted child sex offender at the time that all of these emails were sent. Sir Vince Cable, who was then business secretary, told the BBC: 'I was unaware of Andrew... sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before, this is the first I've heard of it.' Official guidance for envoys reads that 'the role of a Trade Envoy carries with it a duty of confidentiality in relation to information received. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits. 'This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply.' Andrew has been a key figure of scrutiny for years over his friendship with Epstein, which has come to new heights in recent weeks and months. He has denied any wrongdoing. He was stripped of his titles last October and was moved out of the seven-bedroom mansion, Royal Lodge, under cover of darkness this Monday, earlier than expected. This was expedited by his brother King Charles in the face of public outcry. Andrew is not the only figure from the UK who looks to have been sending Epstein official confidential information. Former ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson, appears to have given advanced warning to Epstein of a 500billion bail out to save the ailing Euro in the shadow of the Greek debt crisis in May 2010, the night before it was announced. He is also believed to have forwarded on internal UK government information concerning the selling off of public assets to raise public funds in June 2009. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has come under fire for appointing him ambassador in 2025, and admitted this week that he was aware of Mandelson's friendship with the disgraced financier before he gave him the job. Sir Keir's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, yesterday resigned over the scandal after it was revealed that he had pushed for Mandelson's appointment. Mandelson has repeatedly said he regrets his association with Epstein. A mission to drill into the most unstable and least accessible part of Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier has ended in disaster, after key instruments became stuck in the ice. Also known as the 'Doomsday Glacier', this slowmoving river of ice is roughly the same size as the UK and would cause global sea levels to rise by a whopping 2.1ft (65cm) if it collapsed. Scientists from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and South Korea (KOPRI) have spent over a week camped on the ice attempting to tunnel through to the glacier's underside. The researchers used highpressure water heated to 80C to drill a shaft 11.8 inches (30cm) in diameter and roughly 3,280 ft (1,000 m) deep. They succeeded in deploying a suite of temporary instruments through the ice to take the firstever measurements from beneath the glacier's main trunk. The team then attempted to lower a mooring system that would sit beneath the ice for up to two years and relay data via satellite. But, during the descent, the instrument became trapped in the shaft, and the researchers were forced to give up on the experiment before dangerous weather arrived. As a result, the team has now been forced to abandon the project entirely. A mission to drill into the most fragile part of Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has ended in disaster after key instruments became stuck in the ice Scientists attempted to drill through the Thwaites Glacier (pictured) to take measurements from the ocean beneath Scientists from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and South Korea (KOPRI) (pictured) were forced to abandon the mission to install a mooring device beneath the glacier Scientists have been studying the Thwaites Glacier since 2018, but most of their research has focused on the more stable regions. This project was unique in that it attempted to access the remote, crevasseriddled 'main trunk', which has so far eluded detailed study. After sailing for three weeks aboard the research vessel Araon, the scientists sent out a remotely operated vehicle to check that the area was free of hidden crevasses. Once the vehicle had established a safe location, the team flew the 18 miles there on a helicopter, with over 40 journeys required to transport all the equipment. This only left a twoweek window in which they needed to set up the complex hotwater drill, penetrate the ice, gather their data, and get back to the Araon. Dr Keith Makinson, BAS oceanographer and drilling engineer, says: 'Fieldwork in Antarctica always comes with risk. 'You have a very small window in which everything has to come together.' Due to the extreme cold and shifting ice, the hole would close in just 48 hours if not constantly maintained by hot water. Your browser does not support iframes. The team of researchers used a hotwater drill (pictured), injecting 80C water into the ice to drill a shaft 30 cm in diameter and roughly 1,000 metres (3,300 ft) deep The researchers were able to gather the first measurements from beneath the glacier using the borehole (pictured), which revealed turbulent ocean conditions and relatively warm water After the instrument became stuck, the research team did not have enough hot water or time to drill a second shaft, and were ultimately forced to leave the equipment in the ice Why is it nicknamed the 'Doomsday Glacier'? Thwaites Glacier which is around the size of Great Britain or the US state of Florida has been nicknamed the Doomsday Glacier. With ice up to 2,000 metres thick in places, if the glacier were to collapse, global sea levels would rise by 65cm. This would plunge entire communities underwater, forcing millions of people out of their homes to safer inland areas. Advertisement But, despite strong winds, crevasses, shifting ice and equipment challenges, the team did manage to drill through the Thwaites Glacier and start gathering data. The measurements from beneath the main trunk reveal turbulent ocean conditions and relatively warm water, capable of 'driving substantial melting at the ice base'. However, when the crew attempted to install their mooring system beneath the ice, disaster struck. The BAS believes the borehole was likely frozen over or deformed by the rapid movement of the glacier, shifting up to nine metres per day in some places. With bad weather approaching, a dwindling hot water supply, and an urgent need to pack up the camp before the Araon left Antarctica, there wasn't time to drill a second borehole. The mooring system ultimately had to be abandoned, and the instruments were lost beneath the ice. Although the mission ultimately failed to achieve its goal, the researchers are optimistic that they are heading in the right direction. This is not the first time that the Doomsday Glacier has proven resistant to study, as a 2022 attempt couldn't even reach the location. Understanding the fate of the Thwaites Glacier (pictured) is critical because it has the potential to contribute tens of centimetres or even metres to sea level rise over the next few centuries By comparison, this latest mission did succeed in gathering the first critical observations from below the glacier. Mr Davis says: 'We know heat beneath Thwaites Glacier is driving ice loss. These observations are an important step forward, even though we are disappointed the full deployment could not be achieved.' Those observations could be vital for helping scientists understand the threat of sea level rise over the coming centuries. The Thwaites Glacier plays a significant role in maintaining the stability of the Antarctic Ice Sheet. If the glacier continues to retreat, it could trigger a rapid acceleration in the flow of ice into the ocean that would have devastating consequences worldwide. Previous research has shown that if it collapses, the glacier will cause global sea levels to rise by a whopping 2.1ft (65cm). Recent years have seen the Doomsday Glacier become one of the most rapidly changing, unstable glaciers in Antarctica, and researchers want to understand what is happening before it is too late. Chief scientist Professor Won Sang Lee of South Korea says: 'This is not the end. The data show that this is exactly the right place to study, despite the challenges. What we have learned here strengthens the case for returning.' Scientists hunting for life beyond Earth have long thought that water is one of the key indicators. But a group of experts now says that looking for life on waterrich planets could be a waste of time. Instead, they claim we should be turning our telescopes to worlds that are filled with phosphorus and nitrogen. Life as we know it simply cannot form without these two elements - even if there's abundant water. Phosphorus is required to make DNA and RNA, which store and transmit genetic information in all lifeforms. Nitrogen, meanwhile, is an essential component of proteins, which are the basic building blocks of cells. This means that life can only form on worlds within the 'chemical Goldilocks zone', where there is just the right amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in the rocky mantle. Lead author Dr Craig Walton, of ETH Zurich, told the Daily Mail: 'You could feasibly have a planet that looks great with oceans and even dry land, but there is no life and never will be because the other elements you need are simply all but absent.' Scientists say that looking for planets with oxygen might be a waste of time, and we should be looking for planets that formed with abundant phosphorus and nitrogen instead. Pictured: Artist's impression of planets forming around a star While no life as we understand it can survive without liquid water and oxygen, looking for planets that have these ingredients might be misleading. This is because a planet's 'oxygen balance' at the moment of its formation determines how much phosphorus and nitrogen remain available for life. When planets cool out of molten rock, a sorting process happens in which the heavy elements like iron sink towards the core, while lighter ones float to the surface to form the mantle and crust. If there is too much oxygen present, phosphorus gets locked in the mantle while nitrogen is forced out into the atmosphere and eventually lost into space. On the other hand, if there is too little oxygen, phosphorus binds with other heavy elements and is dragged down to the core, where it can't be used to kickstart life. Dr Walton says: 'Having too much or too little oxygen in the planet as a whole not in the atmosphere per se makes the planet unsuitable for life because it traps key nutrients for life in the core. 'A different oxygen balance means you have nothing to work with left at the surface when the planet cools and you form rocks.' Using numerical modelling, the researchers found that there is a very narrow band where there is just enough oxygen for both phosphorus and nitrogen to be abundant in the mantle. Phosphorus and nitrogen are both essential for life, but only a small number of planets are inside the 'Goldilocks zone' (illustrated) where there is enough of both elements for life to form What is necessary for life? Liquid water: A universal solvent that allows the chemistry of life to take place Oxygen: The primary fuel for producing energy Phosphorus: Required to make DNA and RNA Nitrogen: An essential ingredient in proteins Advertisement By an incredibly lucky chance, Earth happens to sit right inside the chemical Goldilocks zone, ensuring that it had the right balance for other planets to form. However, this likely means that habitable worlds are far rarer than astronomers thought. Dr Walton suggests that there might be just one to 10 per cent as many habitable planets as previously suggested. That might have serious consequences for how scientists search for life, and how we think about the future of human space exploration. While we currently see an abundance of oxygen as a sign of habitability, the researchers' calculations suggest this may signal that the world cannot support life. 'It would be very disappointing to travel all the way to such a planet to colonise it and find there is no phosphorus for growing food,' says Dr Walton. 'We'd better try to check the formation conditions of the planet first, much like ensuring your dinner was cooked properly before you go ahead and eat it.' Closer to home, the researchers' findings also suggest that Mars sits just outside of the chemical Goldilocks zone. Mars (pictured) sits just outside the chemical Goldilocks zone, meaning that it doesn't have enough nitrogen to support life. Huge changes would be needed to make the soil capable of growing plants Dr Walton says: 'Mars is fairly similar to Earth, and its formation conditions mean there is more phosphorus, not less. This means growing food there might be relatively easy.' However, other chemicals are also a lot more abundant at the surface, poisoning the soil with harsh salts. Additionally, the planet has significantly lower levels of nitrogen near the surface, making it especially unsuited to life. 'It is not that different, but it is not currently habitable, Elon Musk will have to come up with a clever way to change the composition to grow food there.' In the future, the researchers suggest that searches for alien life should pay much more attention to the chemical composition of exoplanets. This is very difficult to measure directly, but astronomers can get a clue by looking at the type of star the planet orbits. Since planets primarily form out of the same material as their host star, their chemical compositions are closely related. Solar systems that have similar stars to our own are, therefore, a much more promising place to look for life out in the Universe. Hundreds of thousands of Americans across four states are waking up to a dire warning to stay indoors because the air outside is hazardous to breathe. Pollutants reached 'unhealthy' levels for residents in Pennsylvania, Georgia, Alabama, and Oklahoma on Monday morning, officials said. An air quality tracking system from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) detected an extremely hazardous pocket of polluted air around the Pittsburgh suburbs, just ten miles south of the Pennsylvania city. Live data captured sharply elevated levels of PM2.5, microscopic particles composed of toxic compounds or heavy metals that are small enough to penetrate the lungs, exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma, and contribute to heart attacks. In the South, a 110-mile swath across eastern Oklahoma has been declared unhealthy by the EPA, and a 127-mile-long pocket centered over Columbus, Georgia, is dealing with highly polluted air Monday morning. The increased levels have been linked to recent wildfire smoke, which exacerbates a condition called stagnant air, where little to no wind and high atmospheric pressure trap pollution near ground level. Air quality levels are measured on a scale from 0 to 500: good (050) carries little risk, moderate (51100) may affect sensitive individuals, unhealthy for sensitive groups (101150) poses increased risk and unhealthy (151200) impacts everyone, limiting outdoor activity. In Glassport, Pennsylvania, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 192, while readings in parts of Oklahoma, Georgia, and Alabama exceeded 150. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was among the areas where pollutants reached 'unhealthy' levels The EPA's air quality detectors recorded unhealthy levels of PM2.5, microscopic particles composed of toxic compounds that can penetrate the lungs, on Monday morning To understand the impact of stagnant air on cities, it is helpful to look at atmospheric pressure. Pressure is measured in millibars, with normal sea-level pressure being 1,013 millibars. Anything between 1,015 and 1,020 millibars is considered a high-pressure system, with strong pressure exceeding 1,030 millibars, especially in the winter. In Glassport, the air quality-tracking website IQAir reported that pressure reached 1,031 millibars Monday morning, causing sinking air from above to warm and compress as it descends. Stagnant air means the air around you is barely moving, like it's stuck under a lid, so pollution, smoke, car fumes, and other particles can't blow away or mix higher up in the atmosphere, causing them to build up near the ground where we breathe. While the AQI directly over Pittsburgh has remained at 'moderate' levels, the entire region of western Pennsylvania is under a high-pressure system that is trapping more pollutants than usual. The National Weather Service has officially issued an air quality alert for Allegheny County, stating that a 'code ORANGE' was in effect in Clairton, Glassport, Lincoln, Liberty, and Port Vue. 'A code ORANGE air quality alert means that air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include children, the elderly, and people suffering from asthma, heart disease, or other lung diseases,' NWS stated. Near Columbus, a city with over 200,000 residents, smoke from multiple fires in both Georgia and Alabama is being carried north by the wind, increasing local pollutant levels. Unhealthy levels of the pollutant were also found in Georgia, Alabama, and Oklahoma for hundreds of miles due to local wildfires Columbus, Georgia, was at the center of the EPA's air quality alert on Monday The worst readings were recorded near Eastaboga, Alabama, where IQAir reporting stations recorded an AQI of 170 and PM2.5 levels 16.6 times the World Health Organization's recommended safe limit. The EPA has warned that all Georgia residents between Lagrange and Fort Gaines are in hazard zone for high levels of PM2.5. Residents in the affected areas have been advised to avoid outdoor exercise, wear a face mask if going outside, close all windows to prevent polluted air from coming inside, and turn on air purifiers if you own one. Even short-term exposure to high levels of these particles can cause concerning health problems, including irritation of the eyes, throat, and nose. Among vulnerable individuals, inhaling particles from smoke, car exhaust, and factory emissions can also cause irregular heartbeats, asthma attacks, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. After more than four decades of silence, a long-dormant volcano is showing unsettling new signs of activity that have scientists watching closely. Researchers have detected rising temperatures, bubbling gases and unusual sulfur formations inside Mexico's El Chichon volcano, also known as Chichonal. The changes were recorded by scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) during monitoring between June and December 2025. The volcano last erupted in 1982, killing at least 2,000 people in one of Mexico's deadliest volcanic disasters. Scientists observed elevated heat, shifting crater-lake chemistry, and gas emissions including hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide, which can be hazardous in high concentrations. Unusual hollow sulfur spheres forming in liquid sulfur pools were also documented inside the crater. Despite the dramatic signs, experts say there is currently no evidence of magma movement beneath the volcano. Researchers stress the activity is likely hydrothermal and does not indicate an imminent eruption. The new findings come from detailed fieldwork and remote monitoring conducted by UNAM's Institute of Geophysics, which has been studying Chichonal's internal dynamics for years. Researchers have detected rising temperatures, bubbling gases and unusual sulfur formations inside Mexico's El Chichon volcano, also known as Chichonal During recent inspections, scientists reported that the crater lake, normally green and dominated by algae, had turned grayish, suggesting elevated levels of sulfates and silica in the water. Thermal measurements showed that temperatures in the lakebed and surrounding crater floor had risen higher than typical background levels. The team also documented fluctuating chloride concentrations and changing gas-water interactions, signs that hot fluids are circulating beneath the surface, Green Matters reported. Gas sampling revealed hydrogen sulfide (HS) and carbon dioxide (CO) accumulating near the crater, gases that can pose risks to humans and animals if they build up in enclosed or low-lying areas. However, scientists emphasized that such emissions are common in active hydrothermal systems and do not necessarily signal an eruption. Volcanologist Dr. Patricia Jacome Paz of UNAM explained that the unusual activity is most likely caused by superheated groundwater interacting with hot rock rather than molten magma rising toward the surface. 'The observed behavior is consistent with hydrothermal processes or minor steam-driven explosions,' she said in a recent lecture discussing the findings. Seismic data collected in the region also show low levels of earthquake activity, further suggesting that magma is not currently moving beneath the volcano. Join the debate How should authorities balance public safety with local livelihoods living near restless volcanoes like Chichonal? The volcano last erupted in 1982, killing at least 2,000 people in one of Mexico's deadliest volcanic disasters Chichonal has been restricted to visitors since its catastrophic 1982 eruption, but it has become a key research site for scientists studying how volcanoes evolve long after major explosive events. The volcano's crater lake and sulfur deposits provide rare opportunities to examine how heat and fluids reshape volcanic landscapes over time. The memory of the 1982 disaster remains vivid in southern Mexico. Beginning on March 28 of that year, Chichonal unleashed a series of powerful eruptions that continued into April, sending ash clouds high into the atmosphere and triggering deadly pyroclastic flows. Entire villages were destroyed, agricultural land was buried under ash and debris, and thousands of residents were forced to flee. The eruption devastated coffee farms, livestock and infrastructure, causing long-term economic and environmental damage across the region. Today, scientists say the current activity bears little resemblance to the conditions that preceded the 1982 eruption. Still, they caution that volcanoes can remain dynamic for decades, even centuries, after a major event. Subtle changes in temperature, gas emissions, and water chemistry can provide early clues about how a volcanic system is evolving underground. To better track Chichonal's behavior, researchers are using drones, satellite remote sensing, and on-site instruments to monitor thermal anomalies, gas plumes, and ground deformation. Continuous monitoring is critical, scientists say, because volcanic systems can change rapidly, and early detection is key to public safety. For now, experts say there is no cause for public alarm. But the renewed activity at Chichonal is a reminder that dormant volcanoes are rarely truly inactive, and that even decades of quiet can mask ongoing processes deep beneath the surface. Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more Whether you're a regular camper who knows all the best camping sites or an absolute newbie, you might be looking forward to the spring, when being active and outside finally becomes appealing again. Camping's a favourite pastime for many, not least because it's easy to do on a budget. It's also a great family activity, and is perfect for getting outdoors. Having grown up with three younger brothers, camping was often on the cards for us - memories of toasting marshmallows over a barbecue and moist tent walls are core parts of our childhood. As I've grown older, I've found myself seeking the best equipment to eradicate the downsides of camping - cramped tents, sleeping on gravel - in favour of better quality gear. With my brother (begrudgingly) in tow, I set out to test some of the best camping gear on the market, to share the top essentials you should buy for your next trip. Travel writer Erin took the camping essentials for a spin, testing them out The best camping essentials 2026, at a glance How we test We put all of our products through a rigorous testing process and travel essentials are no different. From personal item bags and carry-ons to power banks and passport wallets, we test every product for at least a week (usually longer), and use them in real camping scenarios for practical, trial-based testing. In some instances, our product testing experts will reference products they've been using for years. The sleeping bag from Fjallraven was warm and cosy while still being lightweight From testing if a personal item bag easily fits under the seat on a plane to if a travel pillow is supportive enough to hold your neck upright for a full in-flight nap, we've put it all to the test. You can read more about how we test travel accessories on our dedicated page. The best travel essentials 2026, tested and reviewed 1. Best camping tent: Vango Halo 300 Vango Halo 300 Product Specs Capacity 3 people Weight 3.99kg What we love Size Sleeps three comfortably Doors Two entrances What could be better Cost Not budget-friendly Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks I'll admit, despite being a keen camper, putting up a tent is often a struggle for me. Luckily, this one was nice and simple, and although easiest to set up with two people, could be done alone if need be. It's spacious and comfortable, and is a great option for a group trip. A key benefit is the fact it has two doors, on opposite sides - making it super easy for sneaking out while your tent mates are sleeping! 2. Best camping sleeping bag: Fjallraven Keb Three Seasons Sleeping Bag Fjallraven Keb Three Seasons Sleeping Bag Product Specs Weight 1,1 kg What we love Comfort The best I've tried Warm Lightweight and warm all night in the spring, summer and autumn in temperate climates What could be better Seasons Not winter-friendly for very cold climates Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks Fjallraven is best known for its fabulous backpacks, but that should change - this sleeping bag is the comfiest I've ever tried. It's easy to zip yourself up to stay warm, but the biggest perk is how soft and padded it feels, without being too heavy. 3. Best camping sleeping mat: Vango Shangri-La II 15 Grande Sleeping Mat Vango Shangri-La II 15 Grande Sleeping Mat Product Specs Weight 4,3 kg What we love Comfort The Vango Shangri-La II 15 Grande sleeping mat is the pinnacle of Vango's self-inflating mat collection What could be better Cost Not cheapest on market Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks Sleeping mats while camping are essential for ensuring a comfortable stay. This one, while on the pricier side, is a great investment, in particular for any camping fanatics looking to upgrade their trips. 4. Best camping backpack: Osprey Kestrel 48 Osprey Kestrel 48 Product Specs Capacity 46L Weight 2kg What we love Comfort Easy to carry Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks I backpacked through Morocco carrying everything I brought with me in this bag, and it never once failed me. It's spacious, easy to carry, has comfortable straps and plenty of compartments - perfect for any camping or hiking trip. 5. Best camping head torch: Biolite 500 Biolite 500 What we love Power The best I've tried Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks As a recreational runner working in a classic 9-5, it can be difficult to find motivation to run after work during the long winter evenings, made worse by the need to run in the dark. This was the first time I tried using a head torch, and it changed the whole run entirely. I was no longer limited to the busy streets. Even with no streetlights, the torch was able to give me complete visibility, whilst also providing the option to adjust power to avoid blinding those around me. It is super easy to charge, just like charging a phone, and easily fits in my pocket. Overall I liked it, it worked well, it fit on my head nicely (didn't slip or fall off), and has really good brightness - meaning it would be perfect for a camping trip, especially if you're surrounded by darkness! 6. Best camping chair: OEX Ultralight Chair OEX Ultralight Chair Product Specs Weight 1.29kg What we love Lightweight Easy to carry Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks A camping chair is an absolute essential, and this high-quality option is great. Not only is it extremely comfortable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, but it won't break the bank either. Perfect for perching in the sun, pint in hand. 7. Best camping stove: OEX Heiro Solo Stove OEX Heiro Solo Stove Product Specs Weight 370g What we love Size Compact, yet plenty of space for meals Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks This is a great lightweight stove for whipping up a delicious meal while camping a good high-tech investment if you go camping a lot. The 600ml pot is large enough to fully submerge a food pouch, warm soups, drinks and more. It fits directly onto a gas canister and comes with plenty of features to help you get the most efficient and safest flame possible while out and about. It's the perfect size for solo camping adventures without weighing you down. 8. Best camping power bank: Anker High-Power Multi-Device charger Anker High-Power Multi-Device Charging Product Specs Battery capacity 25,000mAh Dimensions 15.7cm x 5.4cm x 4.9cm Weight 594.21 g What we love Power Permits multiple charges over the course of several days Speed Can recharge a laptop to full power in less than 90 minutes Reviewed by Genie Harrison While slightly bulky and heavy, this is probably the best portable charger I've ever used. You can charge multiple devices at a time with the two in-device cables (one of which is extendable), and the power source permits multiple charges over the course of several days, meaning that for short haul trips, you wouldn't even need to take an adaptor. The device is also powerful enough to recharge a laptop to full power in under 90 minutes. Our verdict Our ultimate guide to the key equipment you need to go camping includes the basics as well as some elevated luxuries to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible. If you're on a budget, start with a simple one-night trip with just a tent and sleeping bag - ideally in the spring, when you won't have extreme weather to contend with. For more experienced campers, some of the items on our list could be game-changers - a decent backpack like the Osprey Kestrel or an impressive sleeping mat like the Vango Shangri-La might make all the difference. Why trust us Our team of travel writers and editors has been testing products and writing reviews for many years, covering a wide range of products. With a focus on travel equipment, we provide expertise on what travellers need on their journeys. Our reviews are honest, impartial and based on real-world testing. We take into consideration all budgets and lifestyles when reviewing products to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed buying decision. FAQs What essentials do you need to go camping? If you're keen to get started, the basics you need simple: a tent, sleeping gear and lighting. You will also want to make sure you have food - but if purchasing a camping stove feels a step too far, you could start out with cold food such as sandwiches. Clothing is important too - you'll want sturdy, waterproof shoes as well as layers of clothing to stay warm. Take a look at our roundup of the best thermals for some excellent tried and tested picks for the cold weather. What are the 7 C's of camping? The 7 C's of camping are designed to make sure you cover all your bases. They are cover, cooking, comfort, clothing, cleanliness, care, and communication. If you are prepared for each category, you're ready for your next trip. What is the most forgotten item when camping? If you've got your core equipment, you're all set - but plenty of small items can easily be forgotten on a camping trip. The most forgotten camping items are small essentials such as a lighter or matches, or a torch. But plenty of even the most experienced campers might forget essential personal items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste. Germany and Ireland are the latest countries to issue travel advisories for the United States, following ICE protests and violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The warnings follow the recent deaths and arrests of individuals during increased federal immigrant operations in the Twin Cities, home to over 3 million people. Over the past year, at least 12 nations, including key tourism drivers like the UK, Germany, and Canada, have revised their travel guidance for the US. While reasons for travel notices differ, countries like Ireland, France, Germany have pointed specifically to civil unrest in the Minneapolis area. On 26 January 2026, Germany's Foreign Office updated its safety advice, warning that demonstrations in Minneapolis and other US cities can sometimes turn violent. German nationals were urged to remain alert and steer clear of large gatherings. Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs issued similar guidance in mid-January, advising travellers to exercise caution in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area amid heightened tensions following recent ICE activity. France and Finland also issued similar warnings, with France recommending avoiding central Minneapolis and staying away from protests or public gatherings. As a result of the growing number of warnings, travellers headed to the United States are currently being reminded by governments to carry their identification on them at all times. Germany and Ireland have issued travel advisories for the United States, following ICE protests and violent clashes in Minneapolis (pictured) It follows the recent deaths and arrests of individuals during increased federal immigrant operations in the Minneapolis-St.Paul area (pictured) International travel advisories for the US are not new, though earlier alerts have often focused on gun violence rather than civil unrest. Uruguay and Japan both warned their citizens after the 2019 mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio. Japan's foreign ministry, meanwhile, continues to describe gun crime as a 'major public safety concern' in the US and also highlights the risk of hate crimes based on race, religion and sexual orientation. More recent advisories cover a broad range of issues, including natural disasters, gender identification rules, political demonstrations and confrontations with immigration authorities. Countries that currently have general travel advisories for the US include: Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, and United Kingdom. Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University's School of Business, told Conde Nast Traveller that the combination of rising travel warnings, tougher entry rules under the Trump administration and higher visa fees has likely made some international visitors more hesitant about travelling to the US. This is reflected in data shared by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which revealed that in 2025, travel to the United States decreased by 6 per cent. These figures that do not appear to be improving. Travellers heading to Minneapolis and the wider United States area are reminded by governments to carry their identification on them Advisories from 12 nations across the globe cover a broad range of issues in the US, including natural disasters, political demonstrations and confrontations with immigration authorities Countries with travel advisories for the United States Australia Belgium Canada China Denmark Finland France Germany Ireland Netherlands New Zealand Portugal United Kingdom Advertisement Aviation analytics firm Cirium also reports a 14.2 per cent year-over-year decline in flights from Europe to the US for summer 2026, marking a significant drop in transatlantic demand. Julia Simpson, CEO and president for WTTC, said: 'This is a wake-up call for the US government. 'The worlds biggest travel and tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction, not because of a lack of demand, but because of a failure to act. 'While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the US government is putting up the "closed" sign.'s. Ryanair has been accused of offering 'terrible exchange rates' on its website when customers book flights online. A recent study from consumer champion Which? found that the currency exchange used on the airline's website was poor in comparison with rates on other conversion sites. If you book a ticket that starts overseas to fly into the UK, Ryanair and other airlines give the fare in the currency of the country you depart from. For example, a family of four flying from Alicante to London this summer would pay 1,439, according to rates in February 2026, Which? found. Ryanair then converts that into pounds but the 1,321 it charged is a 'terrible exchange rate', the consumer expert found. Which? added when checking prices on currency conversion site xe.com, passengers would have paid 81 more with Ryanairs automatic currency conversion than with the banks rate, if they had just paid in euros. The issue has reportedly recurred across multiple flight bookings. Fortunately for passengers looking to book with the budget airline, there's a way to avoid this altogether. Which? found that customers using Ryanair's website were offered poor exchange rates You can opt out of Ryanairs automatic conversion rate - but you have to jump through several hoops to do so, according to Which?. After you enter your payment card number a figure appears showing the conversion rate Ryanair is giving you. Theres also a discreet arrow downwards and the legend Want to learn more about our guaranteed exchange rate? Click on the arrow and youll see the message: If you do not wish to accept the exchange rate, you can pay in the currency of the flight and have the currency converted by your Payment Service Provider. 'However, bear in mind that the rate you receive from your bank is not guaranteed and is subject to daily fluctuations, which could result in a significantly different cost for you. There is also a pre-ticked box and the message: We recommend you do not untick the checkbox so that you receive our guaranteed exchange rate. Ignore this warning, untick the checkbox and your exchange rate will be calculated by your bank, rather than Ryanair. In Which?'s research, since 2017 when this was first investigated, the bank rate has always been better. There are ways to get more bang for your buck with the budget carrier In a statement, Ryanair said Which?'s claims are 'false and inaccurate'. It added: 'Ryanair's currency conversion is competitive, but we don't care whether people use our currency conversion or use some other currency conversion service.' The study also found opting for Ryanair's Regular ticket would mean paying 59 more than if holidaymakers decided to book Basic and purchased the same baggage and seat selection. Which? also recommends ignoring Ryanair's Plus fare option, which includes a 20kg suitcase and seat selection. As thousands of Brits prepare to take to the skies this February half-term, Ryanair passengers are being reminded of a lesser-known rule that could cause frustration at the boarding gate. While most travellers are aware of airline restrictions - from baggage allowances to liquid limits - some policies are quietly enforced, which may come as a surprise even to seasoned travellers once they're caught out. For many, a takeaway coffee or hot drink feels like an essential part of the pre-flight routine, especially when travelling in the early morning. However, Ryanair has reiterated that passengers are not permitted to bring hot drinks on board during boarding. The low-cost Irish airline says the restriction is in place for safety reasons. A spokesperson noted: 'In the interest of safety we cannot allow passengers to board the plane with hot drinks or consume their own alcohol during the flight.' Ryanair's main concern is that passengers may spill their drink while boarding, as aircraft aisles are narrow and crowded with travellers carrying bags and hand luggage. Hot liquids could also cause burns to passengers or crew if accidentally knocked over during this stage of the journey. Ryanair is reminding travellers of an overlooked rule that could cause frustration at the boarding gate - bringing hot drinks on board The airline's main issue is that passengers may spill their hot drink while navigating the aircraft's narrow and often crowded aisles Aside from Ryanair, Aer Lingus is another budget carrier that enforces a similar rule. Responding to a customer query on social media, an Aer Lingus representative said: 'We ask people not to bring hot drinks onboard when boarding as a safety precaution. Apologies for any disappointment.' Passengers are still able to purchase tea, coffee and other drinks once the plane is in the air. Cold drinks and snacks are also allowed on board, provided they comply with airport security regulations. In a separate reminder, Ryanair also restated its policy on alcohol, noting that any alcohol bought in duty free must remain unopened for the duration of the flight, and passengers are not permitted to drink their own alcohol on board. As holidaymakers begin to plan their getaways, airlines are urging travellers to be aware of these rules in advance to avoid delays or disappointment at the gate. It comes after Ryanair recently encouraged plane passengers to stop wearing jeans on board flights. The airline, which regularly posts updates and advice on its social media accounts, suggested passengers forgo jeans on flights. The low-cost airline is also concerned that passengers' hot liquids could also cause burns to passengers or crew if accidentally knocked over while boarding In a post on its TikTok account @ryanair, the carrier shared a video with the caption: 'It's 2026, let's stop travelling in jeans.' The clip then showed one aircraft descending - with a voiceover saying: 'Thank you for flying Ryanair.' The video sparked debate in the comments section, with many viewers jumping in to share their thoughts. One wrote: 'Well then maybe let me bring a bigger bag to PUT MY JEANS IN.' A second chimed in: 'Are you gonna charge for wearing jeans now?' Wizz Air is expanding WIZZ Class across its entire network from today, making the service available on routes where it has not yet been offered. It follows a successful trial period at six bases and strong demand from passengers looking for extra comfort - without extortionate fares. WIZZ Class was initially introduced on selected flights to and from Budapest, Bucharest Otopeni, Warsaw, London Luton, London Gatwick, and Rome Fiumicino. According to the airline, uptake exceeded expectations particularly among business travellers looking for more space and a smoother onboard experience. It's not an entirely different seat, though. With WIZZ Class, passengers enjoy a reserved empty middle seat in the first row (1B and 1E), providing extra personal space and a more comfortable environment to relax or work. As the first row also offers additional legroom, the service enhances comfort while maintaining Wizz Air's efficient single-class cabin layout. WIZZ Class can be purchased as an add-on during the booking flow when selecting Smart or Plus bundles from February 9, 2026. Upgraded seats in WIZZ Class also come with a complimentary drink and snack These already include priority boarding and a 10kg carry-on suitcase. In addition to the reserved middle seat, WIZZ Class customers receive a complimentary non-alcoholic drink and snack. Silvia Mosquera, commercial officer at Wizz Air, said: 'After testing WIZZ Class at six of our bases and receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback, it became clear that passengers especially business travellers value the extra comfort and space this service provides. 'Even with the limited initial rollout, demand exceeded our expectations. 'That's why we're now extending WIZZ Class across the network, giving more customers access to additional room and convenience while staying true to our efficient singleclass model.' Unlike traditional business-class products, WIZZ Class requires no costly cabin redesign. By simply blocking two middle seats, Wizz Air delivers a more spacious experience while preserving the high-efficiency configuration that keeps fares low. Wizz Air operates a fleet of 262 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. The airline is rolling out the new system from today onwards It is not the first time budget airlines have pivoted towards upmarket experiences. Many US low-cost carriers are looking to compete with major airlines, and Southwest announced it is transitioning from open to assigned seating this year, while also launching premium seating options. JetBlue has already established its low-cost, upmarket hybrid business model with 'EvenMore', a premium perks scheme which offers customers early boarding, extra legroom and front-of-plane seats, plus free alcoholic drinks and exclusive snacks. Ryanair allows passengers to book extra seats for comfort while easyJet customers can choose certain seats for extra legroom. A young American female tourist who braved Afghanistan alone claims defiantly refusing to do what the Taliban demanded saved her from a brutal interrogation. Sophia Lee, 20, admits she almost didn't get on the flight to Afghanistan for her week-long solo trip but eventually pushed past her nerves and jetted off to the Islamic state. The content creator, who's attempting to break the Guinness World Record as the youngest person to travel to every single country, wanted to see what it was like for women under the regime. This is despite the US Bureau of Consular Affairs urging citizens 'do not travel' to Afghanistan due to civil unrest, crime, terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping, and limited health facilities. It also hasn't had a US embassy there since the one in Kabul suspended operations in 2021. Sophia said most of the time during her trip she only experienced hospitality from the 'very generous' locals she encountered. Video footage shows Sophia donning a hijab and tucking into an ice cream with the caption 'enjoying my ice cream alone in Afghanistan because I refuse to listen to 'western propaganda'. But just days after her carefree snack in September 2025, Sophia had a heart-stopping encounter with a member of the Taliban who confronted her and demanded she follow him. Sophia Lee, 20, enjoying her ice cream alone in Afghanistan - in defiance The young solo traveller holding up a headshot of herself in Kabul The brave jetsetter held her ground and refused to budge, repeatedly explaining she was a tourist visiting the region, before he eventually gave up and left. Her defiance helped her dodge what she believes could have been a gruelling interrogation. Sophia, from Denali Borough, Alaska, US, said: 'I almost didn't go to Afghanistan, I was debating it at the airport at the last moment before the flight. 'I was very close to not going then I decided at the last moment that I would do it. 'There was a moment when I first arrived where I thought 'maybe I shouldn't have done this'. 'As a traveller I had to completely cover my hair and make sure at all times I was wearing the traditional dress that goes all the way down to the floor. '[One time] I was sitting alone by myself, at one of the blue mosques in Kabul where women have to go in a separate area. 'I was sitting there with the local women and a member of the Taliban approached and slowly went through the group asking questions. Sophia is trying to break the Guinness World Record as the youngest person to travel to every country She's visited many other countries, including Syria and other Middle Eastern nations 'He started yelling at me and I couldn't understand what he was saying and it was a very scary moment because I was completely by myself, there were no other foreigners or guides around. 'He wanted me to come with him alone but I just stayed seated and didn't move. 'I knew getting up and going with him would not have been a good situation. I could sense that he was definitely not safe.' 'I just kept saying that I was a tourist and that I was visiting, and eventually he just left but for a moment there I was very very nervous. Despite spending time with the locals, Sophia admitted she found the trip 'shocking' as a westerner. Sophia said: 'It was definitely very shocking, especially coming from a western country. 'I definitely don't want to downplay what is happening there for women. One of the reasons I went was because I wanted to speak to local women and meet them and hear their stories. 'Some things were very similar to what you read about in the media, for example women can't get access to education and there are a lot of limited opportunities for them in general.' The American traveller, pictured in Afghanistan with two local men She's enjoyed travel for years - here she is pictured in Costa Rica at age 13 Despite her Taliban encounter Sophia, who has also travelled solo in Haiti, Syria, South Sudan, Palestine and Ukraine during the war, said she felt less safe in South America and Cambodia. Sophia said: 'One of the places I felt was the least safe was Guyana in South America. I felt very unsafe there especially as a solo female traveller. 'I also had some bad experiences in Cambodia, I had a lot of problems there with harassment from the local guards asking for money.' Sophia Lee says she still has some of the most challenging countries, including Iran, Venezuela, North Korea and Russia left on her list to travel to before she's able to complete her record. Even with a daunting list of countries still to tick off, Sophia says there aren't any countries she wants to avoid. Sophia said: 'I would never say I am against travelling somewhere. I think travel opens eyes to different experiences and I think that it can only be helpful to share experiences from a place. 'I wouldn't recommend visiting Afghanistan [to others], I don't want to condone or glamourise gun violence or extremist organisations that mistreat women and girls.' JD Wetherspoon opened its first pub in continental Europe this morning - serving pints of Stella Artois alongside full English breakfasts, burgers and pizzas. The venue, named Castell de Santa Barbera, has been constructed in the airside area of departures at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain. The pub is open seven days a week from 6am to 9pm with nearly 1,000 square feet of space on one level, as well as an external terrace with customer seating. The menu includes many meals already available in Wetherspoon pubs in the UK as well as local dishes including garlic prawns and Spanish omelette. Several draught lagers or beers are available such as Amstel Original and Stella Artois for 5.95 (5.18), Guinness for 7.50 (6.53) and Leffe Blonde for 7.95 (6.92). A traditional English breakfast is 10.25 (8.92) while a classic beef burger with chips is 12.95 (11.27) and a bowl of eight chicken bites is 10.95 (9.53). Food is served at all times up to an hour before closing. Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin said today: 'We are delighted to have opened in Spain. 'We believe the pub will be popular with a wide range of customers travelling home from Alicante Airport, including those travelling home to the UK and those using the terminal for trips to England and beyond. New Wetherspoon pub Castell de Santa Barbera is opened in Alicante this morning The pub is in the airside area of departures at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport The pub is open seven days a week from 6am to 9pm with nearly 1,000 square feet of space 'We aim to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, including those at airports.' Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport is becoming increasingly popular for Brits to fly into, giving them access to the Costa Blanca region on the south-eastern coast of Spain and destinations such as Benidorm. The pub is being operated by Wetherspoon's franchise partner, Lagardere Travel Retail. Javier Cagigal, Lagardere's Spain and Portugal chief executive, said: 'At Alicante Airport, our team has focused on understanding passenger expectations and translating that insight into a dining offer that is relevant and appealing. 'This opening reflects our locally driven approach and the way we work with partner brands across our portfolio. Wetherspoon previously told the Mail that 90 per cent of the menu would be dishes seen on the regular menu in its UK pubs. The chain said the pub was named after Santa Barbara Castle in Alicante to give it some 'local heritage', and does not have a special carpet design like other Wetherspoon pubs - but was instead floored with Spanish tiles. Sir Tim revealed in January last year that Wetherspoon was considering opening its first pubs abroad in some of Britons' favourite European holiday hotspots. The chain had been eyeing up resorts popular with UK tourists in Spain but confirmed at that time that it would not be considering China. Sir Tim said he was looking at franchises abroad after a series of successful partnerships in Britain with Haven holiday parks and the universities of Hull and Newcastle. The new JD Wetherspoon pub is the chain's first to be opened in continental Europe The pub in the airport's departures area also has an external terrace with customer seating The menu includes many meals already available in Wetherspoon pubs in the UK The Watford-based company had never previously opened a pub outside the UK and Ireland until today. The chain already operates nearly 800 pubs. Also today, Sir Tim urged other hospitality industry bosses to throw their support behind Reform UK's policies for the pub sector, including plans to slash beer tax. He said the proposed changes would help the sector move towards 'tax parity with supermarkets'. The Nigel Farage-led party announced a series of proposals aimed at support the ailing sector last week. These included a pledge to cut VAT in the hospitality sector by 10 per cent, cut beer duty by 10 per cent, reverse the recent rise in employers' national insurance contributions (NICs) for the sector and a gradual removal of business rates for all pubs. Reform has said it would fund this package with around 3billion, with plans to secure this through reinstating the two-child benefit cap. Last week, Wetherspoon issued a warning over profits and revealed a 45million cost hit in its first half. The chain said on January 21 that it was being knocked by higher-than-expected costs in the first 25 weeks of its financial year, including rising bills for energy, wages and business rates. It said profits in the first half are 'likely to be lower' year on year, with the annual trading result also set to come in 'slightly' below the previous year, if sales continue on the same path. Love Island fans have branded Belle Hassan 'sneaky' and compared her to Lucinda Strafford after she flirted with Scott Van-der-sluis, just hours after his love triangle with Leanne Amaning and Sher Suarez broke down. Belle has been at the centre of arguments in recent days after her former love interest, Sean Stone, explored a connection with Lucinda while Belle was in the USA villa. Despite Belle having flirty conversations with USA hunk Carrington Rodriguez, Sean's interest in Lucinda sparked a series of explosive rows. But viewers watched on Sunday's episode, Belle 'do a Lucinda' as she started to flirt with Scott just hours after he admitted he wanted patch things up with Leanne. Scott ended his exploration with Sher and attempted to apologise to Leanne afterwards in an attempt to get her back. After Leanne was in tears for days over Scott keeping his options open, she ended their romance completely. Love Island fans have branded Belle Hassan 'sneaky' and compared her to Lucinda Strafford after she flirted with Scott Van-der-sluis just hours after his love triangle broke down Belle has been at the centre of arguments in recent days after her former love interest, Sean Stone, explored a connection with Lucinda while Belle was in the USA villa Just hours after their conversation, Belle could be seen smiling, talking and holding hands with Scott outside the girls' dressing room. Leanne, who has been seeking comfort from Belle over Scott's behaviour with Sher, saw Belle and Scott talking outside the dressing room in the evening. She asked the girls what was going on outside the dressing room, but she was met with silence. And ITV2 viewers did not hold back on social media and branded Belle a hypocrite over her behaviour. One penned: 'belle girly dont do it, theyre calling you another version of lucinda'; 'Bella saying its not the same is a clear indication that shes going to try something with Scott'; 'I dont like Whitney or Belle anymore. Justice for Leanne #LoveIslandAllStars let her find a good connection'; 'Belle is the type of girl you hide your man from , she will legit be sneaky till she gets what she wants , lets see what comes out of this looooool. It was so bait she liked scott the whole of the uk can tell'; Join the debate Does Belle owe loyalty to Leanne, or is fair game in love and friendship on Love Island? But viewers watched on Sunday's episode, Belle 'do a Lucinda' as she started to flirt with Scott just hours after he admitted he wanted patch things up with Leanne But on Sunday's episode, Belle started to flirt with Scott just hours after he admitted he wanted patch things up with Leanne Scott ended his exploration with Sher during Sunday night's episode and attempted to apologise to Leanne afterwards in an attempt to get her back After Leanne was in tears for days over Scott keeping his options open, she ended their romance completely Just hours after their conversation, Belle could be seen smiling, talking and holding hands with Scott outside the girls' dressing room And ITV2 viewers did not hold back on social media and branded Belle a hypocrite over her behaviour 'Just look at Belle. She spent 6 whole days ranting and criticising Lucinda for moving swiftly to Sean but couldnt wait for a minute before jumping on Scott.' 'Scotts playing a game. When Leanne was in the bottom, he was quick to say its 3 weeks. Now him and Cher are in the bottom, it feels wrong that hes not with Leanne!!!' 'Like sorry. I refused for love island to try and entertain me with the Belle and Scott storyline. Literally nobodys got time for that!! They dont make sense at all and that agenda needs to be stopped' 'Belle is weird for that move'. Earlier in the episode Curtis Pritchard, Kyra Lizama, Konnor Ewudzi and Imani Ayan exited the villa. In the show's biggest dumping of the series so far, the four were sent packing after host Maya Jama revealed they were the least popular couples. Following an explosive Movie Night, Maya gathered the islanders around the fire pit, where she announced that Konnor, Imani Ayan, Curtis, Kyra, Sean Stone, Lucinda Strafford, Scott Van-der-sluis, and Sher Suarez were at risk of being dumped. In a shock turn of events, Maya did not leave the decision of who was sent home to their fellow islanders. Instead, the couples with the least amount of votes from the public were sent packing. This caused a wave of emotion throughout the villa with Belle reduced to tears and claiming the 'wrong people were sent home'. Tensions reached boiling point during Monday night's shock episode of Married At First Sight as brides Gia Fleur and Bec Zacharia had a fiery dinner table clash over who had the better sex life. The heated argument occurred in front of the entire cast, after Gia, 35, bluntly boasted to the table about how amazing her bedroom antics were with her husband Scott McCristal - much to Bec's annoyance. 'It was an instant connection between me and Scott. We didn't want to have sex straight away, so we waited until day four,' Gia proudly told her co-stars at the dinner table. 'We tried to hold off but we couldn't! I feel like I have known him for a year.' However, Gia's admission did not go down well with her co-star Bec, 35, after her husband Danny Hewitt previously admitted he was struggling to feel any sexual chemistry with her. 'Shut up! She feels like her relationship is so good right now and she is in this dream place. Like, I am really happy for her that she had good sex, but to see her with that massive smile on her face... shush! Like, read the room,' Bec vented to producers. Tensions reached boiling point during Monday night's shock episode of Married At First Sight as brides Gia Fleur (pictured) and Bec Zacharia had a fiery dinner table clash over who had the better sex life The heated argument occurred in front of the entire cast, after Gia, 35, bluntly boasted to the table about how amazing her bedroom antics were with her husband. Pictured: Bec The tension culminated in a game of one-upmanship between the bombshell brides, as Bec attempted to then boast about how much better her honeymoon was compared to Gia's. 'I can't fault Scott, we had such a good honeymoon!' Gia boasted, to which Bec cheekily jumped in with: 'We went to Fiji for a week!' 'It was so good, so much fun!' Bec added, before asking Gia and Scott where they went on their romantic getaway. 'Townsville!' the pair replied in unison, prompting Bec to burst into laughter over their honeymoon in remote Queensland. 'Gia and Scott went to Townsville... Not Fiji! I'm sure they had a nice time though,' Bec quipped to producers. A furious Gia did not hold back when later slamming her rival to producers. 'Bec is yuck! Like what is your f***ing problem? It was just rude, she is rude!' Gia sniped. 'Like, "Oh, you went to Townsville!". You know what, Townsville was lovely. And it seems we got on better than you and your man!' 'Bec is yuck! Like what is your f***ing problem? It was just rude, she is rude!' Gia sniped The tension culminated in a game of one-upmanship between the bombshell brides Meanwhile, Bec later accused Gia of being 'fake' and sniped that she was unfairly judging her relationship with Danny. The night soon took a fiery turn after Gia bragged that she had more sex with Scott than Bec had with Danny. 'What's good for the hole is not always good for the soul,' Bec sniped to producers. It comes after Bec hit back at rumours she made a slur about the busty blonde. Speaking to Daily Mail, the 35-year-old Adelaide local addressed allegations she branded Gia a 'trashy s**t' at a tense hen's night. 'That would have been TV gold,' Bec said bluntly. 'If I had said that, there is absolutely no way it would have been left on the cutting room floor. It did not happen.' Bec explained that while she and Gia clashed almost immediately, the tension stemmed from a personality mismatch. 'I think we are fundamentally very different people,' she said. 'In real life, our friendship groups wouldn't overlap. That's just the truth,' she continued. Married At First Sight continues Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine. An Antiques Roadshow guest was amazed to learn the value of a tiny trinket with 'great history attached to it'. The BBC show paid a visit to Thirlestane Castle in the Scottish Borders to assess hidden treasures. Antiques expert and journalist Marc Allum met a mother and son, who brought heirlooms connected to a Russian tsar. These items included an imposing portrait, a small painting as well as a gold snuffbox. Marc was particularly taken by the snuffbox - with a handwritten note outlining the significance of its engraving and the fact it was gifted by a Russian tsar. The guest revealed the box's historical importance had always mattered more than potential financial value. Antiques Roadshow visited paid a visit to Thirlestane Castle in the Scottish Borders - and this mother and son brought along a collection of heirlooms Among them was this snuffbox, with the pair left surprised upon learning its estimated monetary value Antiques expert and journalist Marc Allum was on hand to offer knowledge, inspect and value the historical item Upon examining the item, Marc estimated the snuffbox to be worth between 20,000 to 30,000. The surprised owner responded: 'Thats quite a lot for a little box, isnt it?' Marc said: 'But it's a little box with great history attached.' Elsewhere, another guest was amazed as they learned the huge value of their rare box - as a show expert branded it the 'best he's ever seen'. The BBC show's spin-off, Unseen Treasures, featured a previously unaired clip from the team's time at the Hill of Tarvit Mansion in Fife, Scotland. Expert Gordon Foster met a guest who brought along a gold and quartz snuffbox dating back to 1815. He told the visitor: 'Well, I've seen many snuffboxes on the Antiques Roadshow over the years but I have to say, the snuffbox that you've brought in is one of the best I have ever seen. 'It's 18 carat gold, it's Scottish, and it's got this fabulous faceted citrine on top. Tell us how it's come into your family.' She explained how the box came from her husband's side of the family - detailing how the couple inherited it from his grandmother. Elsewhere, another Antiques Roadshow guest was surprised to discover the value of the snuffbox she brought along During his inspection, Gordon discovered an inscription as well as the date marked as 1815. He remarked: 'It's a splendid inscription, isn't it? 'That's a specialist engraver who's done that part of the box, but there's many other specialists who've been involved in the making of it. 'The border is cast in 18 carat gold. The sides are incurved, and we have a special flush hinge on the back, so it's a specialist hinge maker who's done that. The stone itself will have been done by an Edinburgh lapidary specialist, who've cut the stones. 'The colour of that stone, sometimes you'll see that catalogued as smoky quartz. It's got that golden, almost honey, whisky colour, to a deep, deep colour. 'It's a fantastic stone in its own right', noting that it was made in Edinburgh. Gordon added: 'That must have been one real special friend, to have given a box like that' and the guest clarified: 'Yes, we don't know why or what the relationship was between his friend.' After a further examination, Gordon informed the guest: 'If that turned up on the market, you would be looking at an estimate of 10,000 to 15,000.' The guest appeared to be stunned by this, as they replied: 'Oh, wow. That's very nice to hear. Gosh!' Antiques Roadshow airs Sundays on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer. A new ITV drama that aired on Sunday night has been described as the 'best of the lot' - and had viewers praising 'that's how you start a show!' within minutes. Betrayal centres around British MI5 agent John Hughes (Shaun Evans) as he attempts to navigate his challenging career amid his marriage breakdown. Set in Manchester, he is tasked with taking down a new threat to national security when he meets an informant who could help him foil a criminal gang - only for them to be murdered. Soon at the heart of a conspiracy after he is forced to kill the murderer or be killed, John is left fighting not only for his life, career and country. The show, which is told in four parts, was immediately praised by viewers when it aired on Sunday. Taking to Twitter/X, one praised: 'That 9pm Sunday ITV slot has been a goldmine for a while now. Betrayal is probably the best of the lot though. I'd advise folk to watch it.' The new ITV drama Betrayal that aired on Sunday night has been described as the 'best of the lot' - and had viewers praising 'that's how you start a show!' within minutes Betrayal centres around British MI5 agent John Hughes (Shaun Evans) as he attempts to navigate his challenging career amid his marriage breakdown Other fans were quick to take to social media to praise the show's binge-worthiness and, in particular, leading actor Shaun Evan's performance. They wrote: 'Right so there's action in the first 5 mins of this it's going to good I can tell I'll probably binge the lot tonight! #betrayal.'; 'Shaun Evan's performance in #Betrayal is simply phenomenal. All the little nuances. It doesn't go unnoticed.' Betrayal has also proven itself to be a hit on the review website IMDb, where it has a far received a rating of 6.7 out of 10. Giving the show a rating of 7 out of 10 overall, one reviewer described it as a 'well-paced and nicely twisty show' and praised its writers for telling the story over four compact episodes. Describing the plot, Shaun Evans said: 'It's about someone having a midlife crisis. Things are no longer working for John and he's trying to find a way forward. 'His relationship is falling down around his ears, and he no longer has the respect at work for his maverick qualities. 'His body is beginning to fail and his currency in the world is changing. If you set that against the world of international espionage, it becomes a very interesting dual story.' Taking to Twitter/X, one fan praised: 'That 9pm Sunday ITV slot has been a goldmine for a while now. Betrayal is probably the best of the lot though. I'd advise folk to watch it' Giving the show a rating of 7 out of 10 overall, one IMDb reviewer described it as a 'well-paced and nicely twisty show' and praised its writers for telling the story over four compact episodes Soon at the heart of a conspiracy after he is forced to kill a murderer or be killed, John is left fighting not only for his life, career and country The Daily Mail's Christopher Steven's gave Betrayal an impressive four out of five stars. He wrote: 'John Hughes does have one thing in common with James Bond. He's a bit of a dinosaur. Though his boss is a woman (something that visibly rankles), he automatically expects his rivals to be men, and consequently has a tendency to get his pronouns wrong. In this day and age! 'And when the HR department emails him with an offer of voluntary redundancy, he's straight on the phone to them, effing and jeffing. Again in this day and age! All this could become unintentionally comical, with a less believable actor in the leading role. As in Endeavour, Shaun Evans is compellingly watch-able without being remotely starry. 'He handles everything from set-piece violence to childcare with the same hangdog reluctance, as though he recognises the necessity of all he does though none of it brings much pleasure.' Betrayal is available to stream on ITVX. Jeremy Clarkson has taken a withering swipe at Good Morning Britain's resident meteorologist Laura Tobin after she shared 'good news' about the recent weather. The Clarkson's Farm star, who often shares the impact the weather has on his Oxfordshire farm, hit back at Laura, 44, as she took to social media with the unexpected 'benefits' of 'record wind' across the UK. Britain was battered by a series of storms through January, which caused havoc for the public with widespread high winds, rain and flooding. But despite the tumultuous conditions, which saw the Met Office dish out rare red warnings, Laura took to X to celebrate 'good news'. Reposting an ITV weather report, which detailed how there had been 'record wind power' in January, she penned: 'Some good news from the recent windy weather.' The report read: 'Record Wind Power. January wind power, more than any month on record, cut gas costs 164million.' Jeremy Clarkson has taken a withering swipe at Good Morning Britain's resident meteorologist Laura Tobin after she shared 'good news' about the recent weather Despite the tumultuous conditions, which saw the Met Office dish out rare red warnings, Laura took to X to celebrate 'good news' Based on analysis by think-tank Ember, the report detailed how the UK's wind turbines generated a huge 10.6 terawatt-hours of electricity in January 2026. The milestone number exceeded the previous peak of 10.4, recorded in December 2023, due to three storms, Goretti, Ingrid and Chandra. The storms saw Britain's fleet of turbines working at unusually high levels, reportedly delivering financial benefits to the energy system and British consumers. Ember calculated that without the storms, a further 164million worth of additional gas would've had to have been purchased to meet demand. But Jeremy didn't see the positive side, and hit back, replying to Laura's post: 'So to solve global warming, its best if we all freeze. Excellent.' Fans flooded the comments to agree with the former Top Gear star, with one adding: 'Cut bills by (checks bill) nothing...' 'Whos it cut the cost of gas for? Because it isnt the end user, thats for certain,' a second agreed, while a third penned: 'Our bills are not going down, so wheres the good news in that?' 'Awesome. So our bills are going down, right? Definitely won't just lead to a larger profit margin for the energy cartel,' another concluded. Weather reporter Laura celebrated the 'the recent windy weather' helping the UK's turbines Jeremy replied to Laura's 'good news' on X with a withering swipe In January, members of the public were caught up in the crosshairs of the storms - with Storm Goretti unleashing gusts of up to 123mph, recorded in Cornwall. The storm also prompted heavy snowfall that saw the Met Office issue the 'danger to life' and rare red warning across the country. While Storm Chandra caused a major incident declaration in Somerset, with flooding cutting off roads as rivers burst their banks. It comes after Jeremy issued a brutal response to a fan who hit out that Brexit was to blame for struggling British farms - as his following begged for him to be made agricultural minister. The former Top Gear star hit out that the follower should question their 'grasp on reality' during a heated exchange on X, formerly known as Twitter. Jeremy, 65, responded to the comments left by his fans under a video he filmed for farming campaign group No Farmers, No Food, which advocated for fair pay, sustainable practice and government policies to keep the industry stable. Speaking in a video filmed on his phone, the TV presenter said: 'I'm Jeremy Clarkson, and in the next Parliament I'd like to see the Government prioritising farming. 'We've been asked to diversify and when we try to do that, the local authorities tell us we can't and that needs addressing.' Jeremy issued a brutal response to a fan who hit out that Brexitwas to blame for struggling British farms - as his following begged for him to be made agricultural minister One X user replied under the video: 'Please join Reform. You could be their advisor/intermediate between Farmers on Farming and what they need.' A second disagreed: 'The former Brexit party is the reason why most farms are struggling. They lost subsidies from the EU and its now cheaper for most shops to buy from the EU then domestically.' To which Jeremy hit back: 'Oh dear. You dont seem to have grasp of reality.' The heated exchange fired the debate between X users about farming in Britain, with some even calling for Jeremy to be agricultural minister. One wrote: 'Farmers are the most important people. Without them we starve,' as another chimed in: 'Always buy as local to you as you can.' 'Stand for council,' someone else encouraged, as another fan wrote: 'Jeremy Clarkson for agricultural minister.' 'Double edged sword. They tell you to diversify, but tie your hands so you can't,' a fourth person penned, while a fifth wrote: 'What I don't understand is....why is it okay for one set of people, to tell another set of people, what they can and cannot grow or build on own land?' The No Farmers, No Food account is a farming advocacy campaign that was founded by media commentator James Melville, who grew up on a family farm in Scotland. The account is run by 20 farmers across the UK, and features videos and quotes from famous faces talking about farming, including Jeremy, David Beckham and Saturday Kitchen's James Martin. Helen Flanagan opened up about two 'absolutely horrendous' health battles surrounding her pregnancies. The former Coronation Street star, 35, appeared on Lorraine today (February 9) to discuss her new memoir, Head & Heart. During the conversation, Lorraine brought up how Helen wrote about facing OCD, with the mental health condition described by the host as 'crippling'. Helen responded: '[OCD] is crippling, yeah. I've always actually struggled with OCD since I've been really young. 'I remember it was when I was really, really poorly after I had my first daughter Matilda, with OCD, that I was going to the Priory as an outpatient... 'I remember actually reading Bryony Gordon's book and I just went, "This is what it is, I've got OCD." That really was such a huge comfort to me. Former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan opened up about two 'absolutely horrendous' health battles she has faced Helen, 35, appeared on Monday's episode of Lorraine to discuss her new memoir, titled Head & Heart Also in the chat, Helen spoke to Lorraine about her experiences with Hyperemesis Gravidarum and what it entails 'I haven't got all the answers, but I've wrote a lot about OCD.' Meanwhile, Helen also spoke to Lorraine about her experiences with Hyperemesis Gravidarum. According to the NHS: 'Some pregnant women experience very bad nausea and vomiting. 'They might be sick many times a day and be unable to keep food or drink down, which can impact on their daily life. 'This excessive nausea and vomiting is known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), and often needs hospital treatment.' Symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum include dehydration, weight loss as well as prolonged, severe nausea and vomiting. Helen shared: 'It was horrendous. I mean, the only way I got through it was with my mum. She was so amazing. 'But I think - I mean, I did it three times. I must've been mad to do that three times. 'Especially if any women are struggling with Hyperemesis, my heart really is with them because it's absolutely horrendous. 'You never think it's going to get better. It really is awful.' Meanwhile, among the revelations she has shared details of her various feuds with people she's met along her career. In one passage from the book she describes an unnamed 'mean girl' on the set of Corrie and claimed that TV presenter Yvette Fielding 'detested' her. Helen described the period in time when she returned to Corrie in 2017 after a break and claimed that the atmosphere on set had 'changed' and that unkind cliques had begun to form. She writes in Head & Heart: Break-ups, Breakdowns And Being Rosie: 'There were cliques amongst the cast which seemed a bit exclusionary, and I was made to feel particularly uncomfortable by another actress who could be quite sarcastic and cold with me. Elsewhere in the book, the actress and reality star shared details of her various feuds with people she's met along her career In addition, the book also covers Helen's experience upon returning to Coronation Street as Rosie in 2017 'Maybe her nose was out of joint because my return had attracted a fair bit of press attention not something I could have helped but I do think she had a false impression of me. 'I'd end up sitting on my own a lot of the time in the canteen feeling quite left out. It was like a real-life Mean Girls when I think about it now. I can get on with everyone, but this actress just wasn't very nice to me.' She also described working with Yvette on Celebrity Super-Spa in 2013, claiming she 'absolutely detested' her and 'made no secret of it'. Helen even claimed that Yvette called her 'evil' at one point. In the book she also shed light on her feud with her former Corrie co-star and on-screen boyfriend Ryan Thomas. She detailed how she clashed with the star, who played Jason Grimshaw. Speaking about their spat, she revealed her frustrations stemmed from many sources, including the fact that Ryan was 'grumpy' and 'never knew his lines'. The Celebrity Big Brother star played Jason on the soap from 2000 up till 2016 and despite their romance on-screen they clashed away - although Helen conceded that as time has gone on they have formed a friendship. In the autobiography, she penned: 'Me and Ryan Thomas, weren't on the best of terms in real life either we used to clash something chronic, mainly because he would be dead grumpy in the mornings and never used to know his lines!... In the quotes seen by The Sun, she continued: 'Over the years since, however, we've moved in similar circles and become quite good friends and I've got a lot of time for Ryan and his brothers, Adam and Scott. They're good lads.' Lorraine airs weekdays from 9.30am on ITV1 and ITVX. Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried star in a gloriously sinister and sexy thriller, available to rent at home Year: 2025 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Sky This psychological nail-biter from writer-director Paul Feig (better known for his Melissa McCarthy comedies) comes at you full tilt. It is erotic thriller, cat-and-mouse and cuckoo-in-the-nest rolled into one, but for all its familiar themes and twists, it still manages to keep you on your toes and delivers something fresh, with a wink and a nod that is satisfying rather than irksome. Sydney Sweeney is the cuckoo, a homeless parolee called Millie, who lands in the palatial nest of Amanda Seyfried's Nina Winchester to work as the housemaid for the family, which also includes her bland husband Andrew (Brendan Sklenar) and their impassive young daughter Cece. Millie has lied to get the job, but you can tell she's basically a good person and her and Nina instantly hit it off. Just as quickly, though, the relationship sours. Nina is prone to hysterical, irrational outbursts and, it seems, is trying to trip Millie up at every opportunity. You'll see some of it coming a mile off, but that's intentional, as is the physical resemblance between the two leads. To say any more is to spoil the fun and while the violence gets quite extreme towards the end, you'll have to trust us that it's justified rather than gratuitous. Available to rent on Amazon, Apple, Sky etc. (133 minutes) After four years of marriage, her Summer House castmates and friends announced they were separating. The announcement naturally leaves fans wondering - how are Kyle Cooke and Amanda Batula faring since their split? The Daily Mail posed the question to the Summer House star Ciara Miller, who can confirm the duo have 'no bad blood.' Miller expressed her hopes that the newly-split duo find happiness as she weighed in on the break-up at Clarins' Sugar & Shine Galentine's Affair on Thursday, January 29. 'There's no bad blood between anybody right now, which is nice, and we just want them both to be happy and thriving and whatever way that looks like,' she told The Daily Mail. The split made headlines when it was announced last month. Summer House star Ciara Miller has revealed Kyle Cooke and Amanda Batula have 'no bad blood' after their shock split 'After much reflection, we have mutually and amicably decided to part ways as a couple,' Batula and Cooke began in an Instagram message. 'We share this with a heavy heart and kindly ask for your grace and support while we focus on our personal growth and healing.' It was a long road to matrimony for Cooke and Batula. They first got romantic at the end of season one in 2017. By season two they could be seen arguing over whether to move in together. And then in season three, Cooke admitted to cheating on Batula just months before he proposed marriage. Ultimately, the couple were able to work out their differences and decided to move forward with their wedding, as seen in the most recent season five. They were originally slated to walk down the aisle in September 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to push back the big day three times. After talking it over, Cooke and Batula decided they wanted to keep their wedding celebration close to home. The couple wed in 2021 but sent shockwaves last month when they announced their divorce 'After much reflection, we have mutually and amicably decided to part ways as a couple,' Batula and Cooke began in an Instagram message last month Miller was among a number of stars celebrating Galentine's Day with Clarins Ciara is castmates with the newly-split couple on the hit Bravo series Summer House 'I was like, "Why don't we do it in [my parents] backyard?"' the reality star said during an appearance on Bravos The Daily Dish podcast in April. 'They have this beautiful plot of land. Its just, like, that epic party that we want to have.' They wed at her family's home in New Jersey in September 2021. Miller was among a number of stars celebrating the Galentine's Day with Clarins at Cucina Alba in Los Angeles last Thursday. The bash, thrown to spotlight their iconic Lip Perfector gloss, was held two weeks before the romantic holiday. And Miller already has a special someone. When asked if she had anyone keeping her warm on Valentine's Day, she enthusiastically answered Jasper, her cat. In the latest scandal to rock MAFS, Monday's episode saw Danny Hewitt accused by his wife Bec Zacharia of saying Gia Fleur was his 'type' just days into the experiment. Bec is devastated to learn her on-screen husband may have eyes for her arch nemesis. What exactly Danny said about Gia - and what he meant by it - is a key issue on the show this week, with cast members and viewers divided over what really happened. According to multiple sources, Danny, 34, said something to the effect he would have been better off paired with Gia, 35, after realising their chemistry on a smoke break. But these same insiders stress nothing physical happened between them, and his remarks were said openly in the context of a loud group setting. 'He said it at the table,' a spy told the Mail. 'It wasn't a secret confession or anything. But it landed badly.' In the latest scandal to rock MAFS, Monday's episode saw Danny Hewitt (pictured) accused by his wife Bec Zacharia of saying Gia Fleur was his 'type' just days into the experiment What exactly Danny said about Gia (left) - and what he meant by it - is a key issue on the show this week, with cast members divided over what really happened. (Right: Bec Zacharia) Another source added: 'There was alcohol involved, everyone was talking over each other, and it was one of those comments that should never have been said. 'But once it was out there, it couldn't be taken back.' While there was no suggestion Danny wanted to leave Bec for Gia, the damage was immediate. Bec, who was seated nearby, clocked the interaction - and the timing, sources say, could not have been worse. The couple had just returned from a week-long honeymoon in Fiji that insiders said was mostly intimate and fun - even though the show highlighted Danny's apparent lack of physical interest in his wife. 'They actually had a great time together,' a source close to Bec told the Mail. 'What viewers saw was half an hour of the worst moment. What they didn't see was seven days of connection.' After the honeymoon and leading into the first dinner party, Bec was apparently in a vulnerable state when the couple were separated and communication became strained. The couple had just returned from a honeymoon in Fiji that insiders said was mostly intimate and fun - though the show highlighted Danny's apparent lack of physical interest in his wife After the honeymoon and leading into the first dinner party, Bec was apparently in an vulnerable state when the couple were separated and communication became strained Sources say Danny withdrew emotionally around that time, leaving Bec questioning where she stood in their marriage Sources say Danny withdrew emotionally around that time, leaving Bec questioning where she stood in their marriage. 'When you marry a stranger, sleep with them, then feel them distancing the next day, it messes with your head,' a friend said. 'Any woman would feel insecure in that situation.' It was in that headspace that Bec interpreted Danny's comment about Gia being his type not as idle talk, but as confirmation she was about to be rejected on national TV. 'She didn't accuse him of cheating,' a source said. 'She feared being humiliated.' Behind the scenes, producers recognised the explosive potential of the storyline. 'Once the comment was out there, it became the focus,' an insider said. 'The cast were being asked about it - repeatedly - during their piece-to-camera interviews.' Both Danny and Bec attempted to shut the narrative down as it was happening, insisting to their co-stars and producers that it was being blown out of proportion. 'They were both saying, "This isn't even a thing, why are we still talking about it?"' said an on-set source. However, the storyline continued to be revisited across multiple filming days, placing further strain on the pair's already fragile relationship. Friends of Bec say she became increasingly distressed as production continued. 'She felt like she was being painted as jealous and insecure,' a source said. Both Danny and Bec attempted to shut the narrative down as it was happening, insisting to their co-stars and producers that it was being blown out of proportion Gia Fleur pictured with her on-screen husband Scott McCristal Danny's camp maintains that while he did make the comment about Gia, it was never his intention to undermine his marriage or pursue another bride. 'He admits it was a stupid thing to say,' a spy said. 'But he never acted on it. He never pursued Gia. He never crossed a line.' There was no attempt to get Gia alone or have a private conversation with her, they added. 'He was careless with his words, not disloyal with his actions.' Things between Danny and Bec would later stabilise after he reassured her of his loyalty and she defended him in front of the group. 'By that point, they had started rebuilding trust,' an insider explained. 'But the damage from the narrative was already sort of done.' One source said the Danny-Bec-Gia storyline was heavily manufactured in post-production, with scenes shown in a different order to when they occurred during filming, making it appear as though the saga escalated earlier than it actually did. 'That's why people keep mentioning places that hadn't even aired yet,' they explained. 'It's confusing.' Despite the competing versions of events, insiders on both sides agree on one point: the situation had a profound emotional impact on Bec. 'Whatever people think of Danny, Bec wore the fallout,' a friend of the bride's said. 'She was genuinely hurt.' Married At First Sight continues Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine New to DailyMail+? Here are our most-read stories from the last week Expelled and labelled a 'monster': School insider reveals the tragic lives of the autistic Clune boys before they were killed by their 'sleep-deprived' parents in a quiet Mosman Park cul-de-sac A patriarch scarred by horrors of war, and two very unusual marriages: We reveal the deeply complicated world of Gus Lamont's Outback family Meet Justin Hemmes' gatekeepers: The powerful - and discreet - women in the pub tsar's inner circle after Merivale's year from hell, including the enigmatic ex-model dubbed the 'Queen of Level 6' Eastern suburbs housewives' toxic BFF bust-up ends in restraining order... Plus, shady move by Double Bay chiro accused of choking ex: THE GROUP CHAT He has a type! We reveal the identity of AFL star Bailey Smith's new love interest after his fling with Tammy Hembrow - as he gives the one-fingered salute during airport rendezvous The porn-fuelled fantasy middle-class husbands are desperate to try with their wives... and it almost always ends in divorce: JANA HOCKING Revealed: The last known sighting of Gus Lamont from anyone outside his family - hundreds of kilometres from Oak Park Station - as police zero in on a suspect: 'It's so sad' The vile sexual slur you DIDN'T see on MAFS: Bec and Gia have the nastiest feud of the season... ALI DAHER reveals why Nine isn't showing what really happened at the hens party RICHARD EDEN: I've met Beatrice and Eugenie many times. I know what they're really like. There's one line in Epstein's email that's sealed their fate - this is the devastating blow that's coming If your manhood measures below THIS specific figure, you may be one of thousands of men suffering in silence with a 'micropenis'. But you CAN grow it. I missed my chance - and now my life is ruined Shocking rumour about Dan Andrews' ailing health - straight from Labor powerbrokers... Plus, Abbie's move against viral comedian - and new investigation into Selwood death: COSTELLO'S MELBOURNE You CAN lose weight - and keep it off - with PCOS. After trying every diet, a cheap supplement helped me lose 55kg - and now I don't need Ozempic When photos emerged last August showing Married At First Sight newlyweds Luke Fourniotis and Melissa Akbay living strikingly separate lives just one week into moving in together, it raised eyebrows. At the time, it looked like a minor wobble. Now, as behind-the-scenes details finally come to light, those images read more like a warning. Insiders say the marriage was already unravelling long before dinner parties, commitment ceremonies or explosive confrontations ever aired on screen. And the reason, sources claim, was simple. Luke put in the effort Mel didnt. Married At First Sight newlyweds Luke Fourniotis and Melissa Akbay lived strikingly separate lives just one week into moving in together Insiders say the marriage was already unravelling long before dinner parties, commitment ceremonies or explosive confrontations ever aired on screen In images published by Daily Mail back in August during the first week of apartment living, Melissa was seen wandering Sydney alone, headphones in, snacking on a chocolate bar and staring down at her phone. She looked withdrawn, disengaged and deep in thought. Luke, meanwhile, was photographed elsewhere, upbeat and smiling, dressed in gym gear with a flower tucked behind his ear as he stretched before heading out for a jog. At the time, production sources brushed it off as a couple needing space. But insiders now say the pair were not merely having a quiet day apart - they were already living entirely separate lives. 'That wasn't a rough patch,' one source told Daily Mail. 'That was a marriage where one person had already checked out.' According to multiple insiders, Mel made it clear early on that she was not attracted to Luke and had little interest in building any kind of connection. In images published by Daily Mail back in August during the first week of apartment living, Melissa was seen wandering Sydney alone, headphones in, snacking on a chocolate bar and staring down at her phone Luke, meanwhile, was photographed elsewhere, upbeat and smiling, dressed in gym gear with a flower tucked behind his ear as he stretched before heading out for a jog While Luke attempted to open conversations and find common ground, Mel allegedly shut down discussions and kept interactions surface-level at best 'She didn't want to get to know him,' the source said. 'And that included not wanting to be friends.' While Luke attempted to open conversations and find common ground, Mel allegedly shut down discussions and kept interactions surface-level at best. 'She didn't lean in,' the insider said. 'She leaned away.' Sources say the lack of effort became impossible to ignore during the honeymoon and intensified once cameras were off. 'He was trying to understand her. She wasn't trying at all,' an insider explained. One moment insiders point to as pivotal was Mel's alleged lack of interest in Luke's family, particularly his sisters. One moment insiders point to as pivotal was Mel's alleged lack of interest in Luke's family, particularly his sisters Perhaps the most damaging aspect of the marriage, according to insiders, was the stark contrast in Mel's behaviour Family is said to be central to Luke's life and sources claim his sisters were eager to welcome Mel and build a bond. 'She showed no curiosity,' one insider said. 'No effort to connect. No warmth.' To Luke, that was devastating. 'It told him everything he needed to know,' the source added. 'If you're not even willing to know the people who matter most to your partner, you're already out.' Perhaps the most damaging aspect of the marriage, according to insiders, was the stark contrast in Mel's behaviour. 'She was cold to Luke behind closed doors,' one source said. 'But completely different with everyone else.' In group settings, Mel was allegedly engaged, chatty and upbeat, while in private Luke was met with distance and emotional shutdown. Meanwhile, other couples appeared to be getting along quite well. Pictured: Gia Fleur and Scott McCristal 'That contrast messed with him,' the insider said. 'He felt isolated and humiliated.' It also made it impossible for Luke to pretend everything was fine. Tensions reportedly came to a head during a group discussion when cast members were encouraged to speak openly about their relationships. While others offered glowing updates, Luke refused to lie. 'He said he was putting in all the effort and getting nothing back,' the source said. 'He was exhausted because it wasn't going anywhere.' Insiders say Mel did not dispute his assessment and allegedly admitted she had not been putting in the same level of effort. 'That confirmation was brutal,' the source said. 'It validated everything he'd been feeling.' Despite encouragement from fellow grooms to keep trying, Luke was reportedly left with little hope. 'She had already told him there was no future,' one insider said. 'So what was he meant to do? Beg?' While other couples bonded, laughed and built foundations, Luke and Mel drifted further apart. 'It wasn't one argument that ended it,' the insider said. 'It was one person showing up and the other never bothering to arrive.' And viewers are about to see the collapse of Luke and Mel's marriage was not sudden, it was inevitable. Married At First Sight continues Monday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine. Married At First Sight couple Julia Vogl and Grayson McIvor looked smitten as they recently stepped out in Sydney for a low-key grocery run after moving into an apartment together. The reality TV couple were seen strolling along a city footpath before popping into a local supermarket, where they browsed the aisles side by side and appeared completely at ease in each other's company. Julia, 35, cut a casual figure in a brown suede-look coat layered over a bright blue and pink top, teamed with playful white trousers covered in oversized black polka dots. She carried a large tan tote bag and went makeup-light, letting her blonde hair fall loosely over her shoulders. Meanwhile, Grayson, 34, opted for a laid-back streetwear look, wearing a brown and beige tie-dye hoodie and matching track pants, paired with sneakers. The pair were seen chatting and smiling as they walked, with Grayson gesturing animatedly while Julia listened closely, clutching her reusable shopping bag. Married At First Sight couple Julia Vogl and Grayson McIvor looked smitten as they stepped out in Sydney for a low-key grocery run after moving into an apartment together. Both pictured The reality TV couple were seen strolling along a city footpath before popping into a local supermarket, where they browsed the aisles side by side and appeared completely at ease in each other's company Julia cut a casual figure in a brown suede-look coat layered over a bright blue top, teamed with playful white trousers covered in oversized black polka dots Inside the store, the loved-up couple stood shoulder to shoulder in the toiletries aisle, examining products together and sharing a laugh as they made their selections. At one point, Julia held up an item for Grayson, while he leaned in to read the label, suggesting the newlyweds were settling into domestic life. The cosy outing comes after Julia stunned viewers with a bold admission about her sexuality during Sunday nights episode. Julia confessed that she was bisexual and was open to being paired with either a man or a woman. The former journalist spoke openly about what she was looking for in a partner, and said their gender was not something she even considered. 'The idea that my potential husband or wife is out there and I don't know them is a very strange thought. I am looking for a cosmic connection,' Julia said in voice-over, as she made her way to her wedding ceremony to meet her TV spouse. 'I don't know if I am going to be matched with a man or woman, it isn't about someone's gender... it's about the connection I have with them. 'That connection transcends gender for me.' She carried a large tan tote bag and went makeup-light, letting her blonde hair fall loosely over her shoulders Meanwhile, Grayson opted for a laid-back streetwear look, wearing a brown and beige tie-dye hoodie and matching track pants, paired with sneakers The pair were seen chatting and smiling as they walked, with Grayson gesturing animatedly while Julia listened closely, clutching her reusable shopping bag Inside the store, the loved-up couple stood shoulder to shoulder in the toiletries aisle, examining products together and sharing a laugh as they made their selections. At one point, Julia held up an item for Grayson The cosy outing comes after Julia stunned viewers with a bold admission about her sexuality during Sunday nights episode Julia confessed that she was bisexual and was open to being paired with either a man or a woman The former journalist spoke openly about what she was looking for in a partner, and said their gender was not something she even considered 'The idea that my potential husband or wife is out there and I don't know them is a very strange thought. I am looking for a cosmic connection,' Julia said 'I did not know if I was going to be matched with a man or woman. It didn't matter, I just wanted to feel that spark,' Julia admitted, after meeting Grayson. 'I absolutely felt that spark... he is divine and has a kindness in his eyes! I am happy.' After their ceremony, the pair sat down and had a heartfelt conversation, in which Grayson, 34, admitted he was thrilled to be matched with her. Julia asked: 'I'm 35 and have dated all kinds of people, I'm actually bisexual. I have dated men and women. How does that make you feel?' 'I don't think about it at all. I'm open to anything, it doesn't bother me whatsoever,' Grayson admitted, but added that he had never dated a bisexual person before. The pair seemed happy to be paired with each other and excited to see where their marriage took them. Married At First Sight continues Tuesday at 7:30pm on Channel Nine. Ashley James has revealed for the first time that she was raped by a male friend when she was a 21-year-old student at Nottingham University. The This Morning star, 38, bravely recalled the rape in her new book, Bimbo, explaining it occurred after a night out at a club with pals, and she'd been unconscious. Writing how the assault had been 'one of the very worst moments of my life', she described 'the shame and silence' she lived with afterwards and voiced her hope it would 'change the conversation' around rape and victim blaming. Ashley explained she didn't report what happened because her attacker had been a friend rather than 'a stranger in a dark alley', which made it harder for her to accept he was a rapist, and as a result she turned the blame inwards. In a chapter entitled Silly Girl - to reference to the way in which victims are dismissed and blame - she wrote: 'Its something Ive never spoken about and yet Ive thought about it every day since, increasingly so since having children. 'It was one of the very worst moments of my life. It was hugely traumatic. Im not telling the story to shock but as a mirror to show how common these experiences are and also how broken the support system is.' Ashley James has revealed for the first time that she was raped by a male friend when she was a 21-year-old student at Nottingham University (seen in November) The This Morning star, 38, bravely recalled the rape in her new book, Bimbo, explaining it occurred after a night out at a club with pals, while she'd been unconscious (seen in 2024) The former Made In Chelsea star went on: 'I didnt come forward. Not because I thought the police wouldnt believe me, or that the courts would fail me, but because the man wasnt a stranger in a dark alley. He was a friend. 'And because of that, the only person I blamed was myself. For years. Even after it happened, I was more worried about him not liking me than I was about my own trauma. I was worried hed tell other people and everyone would think I was a s**g. 'So I didnt tell anyone, and I even tried to stay friends with him. Even now I find it hard to think about him as a rapist. Even though thats what he was, because I wasnt asking for it. In fact, I was unconscious. 'Id worry about ruining his life. Yes, I was drunk. Yes, I was wearing going-out clothes, having come from a club. But I was with friends people I trusted.' 'We dont teach girls that, one day, if they get the chance, their male friends might try to rape them' Ashely continued. 'It doesnt matter what you are wearing [or] if you had zero drinks or 1,000 drinks.' Speaking about why she decided to take the step in recounting her ordeal in an interview with The Times this week, Ashley said she'd been inspired by the bravery of Gisele Pelicot. In a case that prompted global outrage, in 2023 it was revealed that Gisele's husband had been repeatedly drugging her and letting dozens of men rape her as she lay unconscious for years, while he filmed it. Over 50 men were found to have taken part in the abuse, and following a lengthy trial in December 2024, they were all found guilty of rape or sexual assault and received prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years. Writing how the assault had been 'one of the very worst moments of my life', she described 'the shame and silence' that she lived with afterwards and voiced her hope that it would 'change the conversation' around rape and victim blaming It was the powerful words of Gisele Pelicot (seen) - who courageously waived her right to anonymity - declaring that it is not for us to have shame, it is them', that gave Ashley the bravery to talk about her own assault for the first time It was the powerful words of Gisele - who courageously waived her right to anonymity - declaring that it is not for us to have shame, it is them', that gave Ashley the bravery to talk about her own assault for the first time. 'I thought really hard about including [the rape] in the book,' she said. 'But because what I write about is how the world shrinks women and strips us of our confidence, I felt like I couldnt write the book and keep that secret. 'This shouldnt be my shame. The focus needs to shift Id like to think weve moved on [as a society], but we havent. 'Its a culture that is still not giving boys the tools to learn how to navigate rejection or how to really understand what consent is. We still ask questions like, "What was she wearing? Was she drunk?" Most of us have stories.' The mum-of-two said that she hoped her story would help to change the narrative that rapists are only 'bad apples or strangers in alleyways'. She insisted focus needed to be on how to prevent men assaulting people, rather than on teaching the victims how to avoid being assaulted. She told The Mirror: 'As a culture and as a society, we still victim blame. We teach women how not to be raped instead of teaching men how not to rape. Men can stop raping us. 'Because of the shame, taboo and stigma, people still think these [men who rape] are bad apples or strangers in alleyways, and its not the case. The mum-of-two said that she hoped her story would help to change the narrative that rapists are only 'bad apples or strangers in alleyways' (seen last month) 'We need to acknowledge it and tell our daughters to stop modifying their behaviour; stop questioning what people are wearing we need to change the conversation.' Ashley said that changes needed to be made to the current system to support sexual assault, pointing to how women often find themselves facing as much shame and blame as their rapists. 'Sexual assault is an area where theres still a lot of shame and taboo,' she said. 'The system still doesnt support women. It almost feels like the woman is put on trial more than the man who is accused of rape.' If you have been affected by sexual assault, contact Rape Crisis on 0808 500 2222 or use the online chat. The Spice Girls have teased a major hint a reunion is on the cards as the band have 'agreed to issue a commemorative coin'. The beloved 1990s pop band will join Brit icons The Rolling Stones, Queen, George Michael and Shirley Bassey in being honoured by the Royal Mint, according to reports. The latest development adds further fuel to the possibility of a hotly-anticipated comeback, after they all reunited for a singalong at David and Victoria's lavish London home last week. Launched in 2020, the Music Legends series includes coins honouring artists like Queen, Elton John, David Bowie, and many others. King Charles is said to have given the seal of approval for the nineties pop girl-group to be the face of 5 and 2 coins for the special music icon collection. A source told The Sun: 'All five of them agreed to it'. The Spice Girls have teased a major hint a reunion is on the cards as the band have 'agreed to issue a commemorative coin' (band seen in 2012) The beloved 1990s pop band will join Brit icons The Rolling Stones, Queen, George Michael and Shirley Basseyin being honoured by the Royal Mint, according to reports Daily Mail has contacted the Spice Girls' representatives for a comment. Only Mel B was missing from the reunion at Victoria's house, although the group were joined by Posh's son Cruz, 20, as they belted out their 1998 hit Viva Forever in a the viral clip. Despite not performing to a sold-out crowd, the iconic girl band sang the hit in the dining room as two lucky members of the Beckhams' catering staff watched on. The staff members, who were dressed in all black, watched on in amazement through large glass doors as Victoria, Geri Halliwell-Horner, 53, Emma Bunton, 50, and Mel C, 52, sang their 1998 hit. Notably, Mel B, 50, was a no-show amid her bitter falling out with Geri but she is also currently on her honeymoon in Mauritius with husband Rory McPhee. However, she has recently said she is keen for the band to get back together and teased fans by 'liking' a comment about the prospect of a reunion. While the ladies sang their harmony, Victoria's son Cruz strummed away on the guitar, while his girlfriend Jackie Apostel, 29, sat at the table and the family's personal chefs watched on through glass doors from the kitchen. Fans couldn't believe that two lucky staff members got 'front row seats' to the Spice Girls reunion and many shared their jealousy on Instagram. They wrote: 'Love the staff in the background literally the most VIP tickets!!!!!; The ladies on the other side are all of us right now!; 'I'm curious if the kitchen staff were paid, or if they paid to have an exclusive front row seat!!; Victoria has been dropping hints that she might do something with the band, uploading a clip of herself singing a live acoustic version of one of their biggest hits and reuniting with the girls at Emma's 50th birthday. The latest rumour fuelled the possibility of a hotly-anticipated comeback, after they all reunited for Emma's birthday and again at Victoria's house (L-R: Mel C, Geri, Emma, Victoria) Only Mel B was missing, although the group were joined by Victoria's son Cruz, 20, as they belted out their 1998 hit Viva Forever in a new viral clip (seen) The staff members, who were dressed in black, watched on in amazement through glass doors as Victoria, Geri Halliwell-Horner, 53, Emma Bunton, 50, and Mel C, 52, sang their 1998 hit Fans couldn't believe that two lucky staff members got 'front row seats' to the Spice Girls reunion and many shared their jealousy on Instagram The ladies have been teasing the fact that something is in the pipeline for some time. Meanwhile, Mel C appeared on Good Morning America in November to promote her ninth album Sweat and was grilled if the Spice Girls would come back together. Crossing her fingers, Mel said: 'I remain optimistic. It's our thirtieth anniversary next year. We toured in 2019, we did a few stadium shows in the UK and it was incredible. 'We're just so proud of the legacy that we have and we have fans now from new generations are just loving the Spice Girls so I would like to get back on stage with the girls. 'We're talking and we're seeing what opportunities are out there. The thing that stops us is we feel so precious about it, we want to make sure it's the right thing and agree on the right thing.' Mel also admitted she will always pine for another Spice Girls reunion, this time with Victoria included. She said: 'It was the most beautiful experience as a Spice Girl. I think because so much time had passed that we were all very present and really could appreciate what this thing meant to so many people.' 'It was such a joyous experience. We were just able to take it in for the first time and enjoy every minute. I feel emotional because I'd love to do it again.' Mel B also teased a major Spice Girls comeback - after Victoria surged to No.1 in the charts with the 2001 song Not Such An Innocent Girl, amid the fallout from her son Brooklyn's brutal statement. Sydney Sweeney turned up the glamour as she walked the star-studded red carpet at the Santa Barbara Film Festival over the weekend. On Sunday, the 28-year-old actress slipped into a Grecian dress that draped perfectly across her body and highlighted her hourglass figure. She paired the cream, satin dress with pointed-toe pumps and her long, blonde hair styled in bombshell curls. The Euphoria star who has been partaking in various levels of daring stunts to promote her new lingerie line was joined by her costar Jacob Elordi at the film festival. Other stars who took the red carpet by storm included fellow actors, Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor, Jane Lynch, Chase Infiniti and Wunmi Mosaku. For the event, Sweeney and the stars were attending the Virtuosos Award ceremony held at the Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, California. Sydney Sweeney turned up the glamour in an old Hollywood-inspired look She was attending the Santa Barbara Film Festival in southern California. For the Virtuosos Awards ceremony, she wore a cream-colored dress that highlighted her hourglass figure Teyana Taylor was also in attendance at the event and made the red carpet her own personal runway as she strutted in a white gown with a long train. Her long-sleeved, lace dress featured deconstructed-inspired details that cascaded down her figure and trailed behind her. She paired the glamorous, couture look with metallic, gold heels and her raven black, pixie cut styled in stunning waves. She completed her look with a dark and sultry makeup look that accentuated her natural beauty. Jacob Elordi was also pictured on the red carpet and attended the star-studded event in a khaki green and brown blazer jacket paired with matching trousers. He completed his dapper look with brown, leather loafers and a patterned tie. Jane Lynch attended the event and also opted for an elegant-chic outfit to show she was ready for business. She looked effortlessly stylish in an oversize, black blazer paired with bellbottom-style pants and pointed-toe boots. She paired the figure-hugging dress with slingback, leather pumps with a tiny bow detail at the front She paired the perfectly draped, off-the-shoulder dress with her blonde tresses styled in bombshell curls She kept the rest of her outfit simple as she paired the dress with dainty, gold accessories and soft, glowy makeup Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor was also in attendance at the event and made the red carpet her own personal runway She wore a captivating, white gown with a deconstructed, lace design and a floor-sweeping train Jacob Elordi also attended the awards ceremony and looked dapper in sharp attire The Wuthering Heights star wore a khaki-colored suit paired with a patterned tie and brown, leather loafers Jane Lynch attended the event and also opted for an elegant-chic outfit to show she was ready for business She wore a black blazer with glittering details on the lapels and matching bellbottom pants and boots Chase Infiniti looked ethereal in a powder pink gown with an asymmetrical skirt. She paired the off-the-shoulder, structured gown with monochromatic pink makeup and silver, statement jewelry. She slicked back her hair into a low ponytail and highlighted her striking features with dark eyeliner and peach-toned blush. Wunmi Mosaku looked striking in her scarlet red, satin outfit with a dramatic cape detail. She rocked an off-the-shoulder crop top with voluminous sleeves and a waterfall cap design. She paired the statement piece with matching, satin trousers and mesh, pointed-toe pumps of the same color. Wagner Moura also attended and wore a powder blue suit with the blazer open to reveal his bright-colored polo shirt. Inside of the event, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, who received widespread critical acclaim for her role in Sentimental Value, took the stage to discuss the making of the film. The Norwegian actress wore an all-black outfit with a sleeveless, frilly top paired with pants. Chase Infiniti was pretty in pink as she dressed to the nines in a stunning, satin gown Infiniti accessorized with silver statement jewelry for a touch of glamour and sparkle to add to her outfit Wunmi Mosaku matched the red carpet as she rocked a head-to-toe outfit made up of scarlet satin The Sinners star paired her dramatic cape top with high-waisted pants and mesh heels to complete her all-red outfit Wagner Moura, who is one of the honorees at the Virtuosos Awards, also attended and wore a powder blue suit with the blazer open for a casual-chic look Weapons star Amy Madigan also attended the event in an oversize blazer and a tie to showcase her style Amy Madigan also attended the event to highlight her Oscar-nominated role in Weapons. She paired a pinstriped button-down with a green, satin tie as well as an oversize, brown blazer. She completed her look with bootcut jeans and red, leather shoes. Inside of the event, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, who received widespread critical acclaim for her role in Sentimental Value, took the stage to discuss the making of the film Taylor also went onstage to talk about her acclaimed role as Perfidia Beverly Hills in One Battle After Another Sweeney also spoke at the event about portraying boxer Christy Martin in the biopic She appeared to be in high spirits as she accepted recognition for one of the many films she worked on and released in the past year Amid his press tour for Wuthering Heights, Elordi also went on the stage to talk about starring in Frankenstein Multiple actors were recognized for their film performances in the past year. Elordi was one of the honorees recognized for his performance in Frankenstein At one point, he was photographed accepting the honor and throwing up hands-up signs during the event At this year's event, the Virtuosos Award is recognizing multiple actors for their 'noteworthy performances in films this season' which have 'propelled them into the forefront of the national cinematic conversation. At the annual film festival, Elordi was honored for his role in Frankenstein. Taylor and Infiniti were recognized for their respective roles in One Battle After Another. Sweeney was honored for her performance in the biopic Christy. Other honorees this year include Amy Madigan for Weapons, Wagner Moura for The Secret Agent, Renate Reinsve for Sentimental Value and Jeremy Allen White for his performance in Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere. At the event, Lynch took to the podium to deliver a speech with the Virtuosos Award honorees in the audience After accepting their awards, Elordi was seen walking off the stage with his arm around Infiniti's waist with Sweeney just ahead of them. They later posed for a group photo together, though Sweeney was notably absent At this year's event, the Virtuosos Award is recognizing multiple actors for their 'noteworthy performances in films this season.' After receiving their awards, several of them posed together for a group photo After towering over the fellow actors and honorees, Elordi posed for a solo portrait with his award Taylor was also snapped in a solo shot. She showed off both her ethereal outfit as well as her flowers gilded in gold Taylor and Infiniti, who both starred in One Battle After Another, posed together for a sweet picture as they highlighted their awards Taylor also posed with a snapshot with the executive director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Roger Durling, after receiving her flowers The radiant actor, Infiniti, also posed for a solo portrait with her award Mosaku, who was recognized for her role in Sinners, also posed with her award in the film which has been nominated for multiple awards since its release last year Lilleaas posed for a portrait alongside the gold trophy after receiving the award Madigan was recognized for her role in Weapons and posed with the award recognizing her performance After taking to the stage, Moura also posed for a photo with the award Moura posed for for a photo with Durling, the executive producer of the event, as they both smiled brightly and held his award At the event, Lynch took to the podium to deliver a speech with the Virtuosos Award honorees in the audience. After receiving their awards, several of them posed together for a group photo. Though fellow Euphoria costars Sweeney and Elordi were both present at the event, they notably did not pose together in any photos. Taylor and Infiniti, who both starred in One Battle After Another, posed together for a sweet picture as they highlighted their awards. Taylor also posed with a snapshot with the executive director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Roger Durling, after receiving her flowers. Mosaku, who was recognized for her role in Sinners, also posed with her award in the film which has been nominated for multiple awards since its release last year. Vogue Williams and Spencer Matthews' son Otto was rushed to A&E over the weekend after suffering a broken collarbone. The TV and radio personality, 40, shared on social media on Sunday evening that her youngest son, three, was wearing a sling following the accident. Vogue posted a photo of Otto stood in a medical room at Chelsea and Westminster hospital in London, where her little boy was seen. Alongside the image, she wrote: 'What a weekend! Ended up in A and E with Otto and a broken collarbone. Otty keeps telling us its not broken it's better!' Vogue went on to thank the staff at the hospital and said she was very impressed with how quickly they were seen to. Saying: 'Staff at Chelsea Westminster are amazing and flew through everyone v impressive and thankful to them. Play Doh fixes all!' Vogue Williams and Spencer Matthews' son Otto was rushed to A&E over the weekend after suffering a broken collarbone Vogue and her husband Spencer, 37, are also parents to Theodore, seven, and Gigi, five. They married in June 2018 The TV and radio personality, 40, shared on social media on Sunday evening that her youngest son, three, was wearing a sling following the accident Alongside the image, she wrote: 'What a weekend! Ended up in A and E with Otto and a broken collarbone. Otty keeps telling us its not broken it's better!' Vogue revealed that after the hospital, they took a trip to Chelsea Farm because Otto 'was allowed wherever he wanted when we left the hospital!' Chelsea Farm is a specialty food store and cafe on Fulham Road, offering fresh, high-quality, and often organic vegetables, fruits and prepared meals. Vogue received supportive messages from her friends and fans, including Shirlie Kemp and Catherine Tyldesley, who both said they hoped Otto was okay. Vogue and her husband Spencer, 37, are also parents to Theodore, seven, and Gigi, five. They married in June 2018. Spencer recently left 'extraordinary' wife Vogue in tears after he opened up about how 'proud and privileged' he was to be married to her. Spencer, who previously admitted he 'could have died' at the height of his drinking, recalled how he'd decided to go sober for Vogue and the sake of their relationship. In clip from The Entrepreneur Experiment podcast shared to his Instagram grid, he said: 'I've always wanted to be better for her, you know, I think she's an extraordinary woman, she's brave and she works so hard.' 'She's flat out, she's an incredible mother you should talk to her about how she finds time to work so hard and be present for the three kids, because I'm not as good as her at that'. Vogue revealed that after the hospital, they took a trip to Chelsea Farm because Otto 'was allowed wherever he wanted when we left the hospital!' Vogue posted a selection of other snaps from their weekend Before adding: 'I work hard to the detriment of time with my family, but she does both. I feel privileged and proud that she's my wife'. Taking to the comments an emotional Vogue said: 'Ahhhhh, that might have made me cry, thank you Spenno'. Fans too were full of praise to the star and said: 'Spencer is a lovely guy who really appreciates how good Vogue is and how hard she works, great couple': 'Every husband should speak this way about his wife': 'The way you speak about your beautiful wife is just amazing': 'Find a man that talks about you like this behind closed doors'. Spencer's issues with drink were exacerbated by his role on the hit E4 reality show where he was notorious for his booze-fuelled partying and relationship drama. He previously spoke about his decision to give up alcohol for good and what caused the excessive drinking in the first place on Vogue's Taboo Talk podcast. Spencer explained: 'I always had jobs where being able to handle your drink really well was a huge bonus. 'I was a trader at ICAP and we would drink five to 10 pints every single day and then take clients out at night and if you couldn't do that, you wouldn't get the job, basically.' With the help of Vogue, the father of three recalled the situation he found himself in that made him decide to turn his life around. He said: 'I had a moment of clarity when I was drinking on my own at night if Vogue wasn't around. All of a sudden I was going to bed drunk. In a podcast clip shared to his Instagram grid, he said: 'She's an incredible mother you should talk to her about how she finds time to work so hard and be present for the three kids' Fans too were full of praise to the star and said: 'Spencer is a lovely guy who really appreciates how good Vogue is and how hard she works, great couple' 'One night, when I was alone, I had a bottle of whiskey and struggled to get myself to bed. I was hammered drunk. I remember waking up the next day and I thought, "I don't need this in my life." 'If I wasn't married to someone who didn't have a great relationship with alcohol, as in you don't really like it, then my journey would have been more difficult.' He continued: 'It's not like I just fancied giving up drinking. I could have lost you, I could have lost work, I could have died - not to be overly dramatic about it, but that's the way it was heading.' Spencer doesn't consider himself an alcoholic as he can now drink in moderation. He said: 'Before, having one glass would have turned into ten and then I'd be out all night. 'I'm sober most of the time, now. I've gone from problem-drinking on a daily basis to having a drink if I feel like it very irregularly. 'I no longer see it as a problem. I have great balance in my life.' Newlyweds Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay shared a glimpse of the 'last part' of their lavish jet-setting honeymoon as they soaked up the sun in Australia on Sunday. The Olympian, 31, and daughter of Gordon Ramsay, 26, first jetted off on 6,000-a-night trip to Mauritius, which was gifted to the couple by her famous parents, before heading down under. They tied the knot at Bath Abbey in December amid a bitter feud which saw his mother Caroline disinvited and sister Bethany the only relative in attendance. Taking to Instagram Adam shared a loved-up snap as he wrapped his arm around his new wife while enjoying the sun set. Adam later showed off his muscular and tattooed physique as he stripped down to budgie smugglers for a training session in the pool. He captioned the post: 'Down Under. Last part of our honeymoon in one of my favourite places on earth @hollyramsaypeaty - of course I had to train out here'. Newlyweds Adam Peatyand Holly Ramsay shared a glimpse of the 'last part' of their lavish jet-setting honeymoon as they soaked up the sun in Australia on Sunday The Olympian, 31, and daughter of Gordon Ramsay, 26, first jetted off on 6,000-a-night trip to Mauritius, which was gifted to the couple by her famous parents, before heading down under. It comes after Adam's estranged family reportedly branded TV chef Gordon a 'bully' after he claimed their fallout with the swimmer was 'self-inflicted'. Gordon told the Daily Mail that he and his wife Tana had 'done nothing wrong' and despite reports suggesting otherwise had treated the Peaty family 'like royalty'. You can read his full interview here. But one relative has claimed the Ramsay's denial was a pack of lies and said the chef had now 'pushed the family too far'. They said: 'How bl***y dare they. The sheer gall of them'. 'The Ramsays did not treat Caroline like royalty at all they treated her as though she was nothing. They ignored her existence and not once did Mrs Ramsay return any of Caroline's texts.' They told The Sun: 'The get together lunch they promised on the day of the engagement never materialised either.' The Daily Mail have contacted Gordon Ramsay's representatives for comment. On Sunday Caroline paid tribute to her husband Mark as she marked their 34th wedding anniversary. They tied the knot at Bath Abbey in December amid a bitter feud which saw his mother Caroline disinvited and sister Bethany the only relative in attendance Adam later showed off his muscular and tattooed physique as he stripped down to budgie smugglers for a training session in the pool The couple took in the gorgeous sunset as they bid farewell to Australia He captioned the post: 'Down Under. Last part of our honeymoon in one of my favourite places on earth @hollyramsaypeaty - of course I had to train out here' Caroline failed to acknowledge the feud in a post on Instagram, where she praised Mark 'for being her rock.' Posting a collection of snaps with her spouse, Caroline wrote: 'Happy Wedding Anniversary to my lovely husband. 34 years married, 37 together. Thank you for always being there, and for being my rock. Love you, for always.' Last month the family reportedly told friends they have 'given up hope' of reconciling with their son after Gordon's latest social media comment. The chef referred to himself as 'dad' in a comment on Adam's wedding video where the Olympian said he would 'always choose' his new wife Holly. An insider told The Sun: 'It's been a really emotional time for them as a family. They're coming to terms with what has happened and that Adam has picked his side. 'It's dashed any hope of reconciliation in the near future. They're keeping their heads down and trying to move on quietly. It's clear Adam's made his choice.' On Adam's wedding video, which he shared on Instagram, Gordon wrote: 'Beautiful words @adamramsaypeaty True Love congratulations love you both so much Dad. The couple's big day was overshadowed by an ugly family dispute. The Sun reported that in his father of the bride speech Gordon commented on how beautiful Holly looked and told Adam he was a 'lucky man', adding: 'Look at Tana and that's what you have to look forward to.' It comes after Adam's estranged family reportedly branded TV chef Gordon a 'bully' after he claimed their fallout with the swimmer was 'self-inflicted' (Adam pictured with his parents) Gordon told the Daily Mail that he and his wife Tana had 'done nothing wrong' and despite reports suggesting otherwise had treated the Peaty family 'like royalty' Last month the family reportedly told friends they have 'given up hope' of reconciling with their son after Gordon's latest social media comment (Adam pictured with the Ramsays) The publication went on to claim that Gordon couldn't resist a sly dig at Adam's absent parents he told his daughter Holly: 'Shame you don't have the same.' It was later revealed that swimmer Adam's estranged mother had been left 'outraged' and 'hurt' that Gordon referred to their bitter family feud in his speech. A family source told the Daily Mail she was left horrified by the moment in the speech and believed the celebrity chef had 'pre planned' the cruel swipe against her, calling it 'cruel' and 'very hurtful'. Gordon doubled down on his speech as he appeared on This Morning last month, insisting that what he had to say at the wedding reception was 'perfect and warm'. He said: 'It's tough, honestly. Being the dad with three daughters, you dream of that moment and that moment arrives and you're just like a hot mess. 'But, the speech was perfect, it went well and you've got to find that You've got to be warm, emotional It's a tough gig.' Daughter Tilly admitted that she had listened to the speech ahead of the big day, chiming in: 'I think it was Christmas Eve, I was sat in his room for an hour as he was just reading through it. 'Going through everything but no tweaks were needed, it was perfect. It made everybody cry.' Holly defended her father's speech despite Caroline's outrage, saying she felt 'overwhelmed with happiness' during it. John Lithgow's non-binary co-star Aud Mason-Hyde has branded his casting in the upcoming Harry Potter series 'hurtful and difficult'. The American actor, 80, is set to play Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO TV adaptation of JK Rowling's wizarding world, which currently comprises seven books and an eight part film series. The franchise has been plagued with controversy due to creator JK's resounding opposition to transgender rights, which first came to light in 2019, after which she was branded a TERF [trans exclusionary radical feminist]. While Aud, who stars alongside John and Olivia Colman in 2025 movie Jimpa, conceded that the actor is 'a beautiful human', they branded his casting 'disconcerting, difficult and hurtful'. Their comments come in the wake of John speaking out about criticism over his role, saying: 'It upsets me when people are vehemently opposed to me having anything to do with this. But in Potter canon you see no trace of transphobic sensitivity.' John Lithgow's non-binary co-star Aud Mason-Hyde has branded his casting in the upcoming Harry Potter series 'hurtful and difficult' (Aud and John pictured in Jimpa) The American actor, 80, is set to play Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO TV adaptation of JK Rowling's wizarding world, which currently comprises seven books and an eight part film series (John pictured on set in Cornwall in October) The franchise has been plagued with controversy due to creator JK's resounding opposition to transgender rights, which first came to light in 2019, after which she was branded a TERF [trans exclusionary radical feminist] (JK pictured in 2022 ) Aud plays Olivia's character Hannah's non-binary child Frances, while John plays Hannah's father Jim, known as Jimpa, who they visit in Amsterdam. The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in January 2025. It was revealed in April last year that John has scooped the role of the cherished Hogwarts headmaster, alongside Paapa Essiedu would be Severus Snape, Janet McTeer would be Minerva McGonagall and Nick Frost would appear as Rubeus Hagrid. In the wake of the announcement, John revealed that a friend with a trans child sent him a link to an article entitled: 'An open letter to John Lithgow: Please walk away from Harry Potter' - something he admitted made him feel 'uncomfortable'. Now, despite speaking fondly of their co-star, Aud has hit out at their co-star and voiced disappointment over his decision to take the part. They said: 'He is such an incredibly talented actor, but also such a beautiful human to make work with, and that was my experience with John. I never felt invalidated or questioned or doubted in my identity or in my transness by him.... 'I consistently felt that he was a very loving and a very guiding co-star. And so there's an element of this that feels vaguely hurtful... 'But also I think that he's making this decision after we had made the film and after we had premiered the film, can't take away from what we had and the time that we spent together and the beautiful work that he does in this movie and actually how incredibly authentically he played the role... In the wake of the announcement, John revealed that a friend with a trans child sent him a link to an article entitled: 'An open letter to John Lithgow: Please walk away from Harry Potter' - something he admitted made him feel 'uncomfortable' (John pictured in February last year) 'It was definitely a difficult moment in time. I don't think it's worth speaking to John's reasoning by any means, but I do also think that it's a strange decision, for sure. And also I found it disconcerting, maybe, is the right word.' In the wake of criticism and in anticipation of more, John spoke at the Rotterdam Film Festival last week about his feelings toward naysayers. He said: 'I take the subject extremely seriously. JK Rowling has created this amazing canon for young people, young kids' literature that has jumped into the consciousness of society... 'Young and old people love Harry Potter and the Harry Potter stories. It's so much about acceptance. It's about good versus evil. It's about kindness versus cruelty.... 'It's deeply felt. I find it ironic and somewhat inexplicable that Rowling has expressed such views. I've read about them, and I've never met her... 'She's not really involved in this production at all. The people who are re-adapting Harry Potter and turning it into an eight-year-long TV series are remarkable. These are people I really want to work with.' 'It upsets me when people are vehemently opposed to me having anything to do with this. But in Potter canon you see no trace of transphobic sensitivity. She has written this meditation of kindness and acceptance. And Dumbledore is a beautiful role.' He continued: 'It was a hard decision. It made me uncomfortable and unhappy that people insisted I walk away from the job. I chose not to do that.' Aud plays Olivia's character Hannah's non-binary child Frances, while John plays Hannah's father Jim, known as Jimpa, who they visit in Amsterdam. The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in January 2025 (Olivia and Aud pictured with co-star Daniel Henshall) Their comments come after co-star Olivia said she has always 'felt sort of nonbinary' as the actress opened up about her identity in a new interview. Olivia, 52, who is best known for her roles in The Crown, The Favourite and Heartstopper and has been married to her husband Ed Sinclair for 25 years, said she has never felt comfortable with rigid gender roles, including in her own marriage. In the midst of the Jimpa promo trail, she explained: 'Throughout my whole life, I've had arguments with people where I've always sort of felt nonbinary. 'I've never felt massive feminine in my being female. I've always described myself to my husband as a gay man. And he goes, "Yeah I get that." And so I do feel at home and at ease.' She added to Them: 'I don't really spend a whole lot of time with people who are very staunchly heterosexual... The men I know and love are very in touch with all sides of themselves. 'I think with my husband and I, we take turns to be the "strong one", or the one who needs a little bit of gentleness. I believe everyone has all of it in them. I've always felt like that. 'I'm not alone in saying, "I don't feel like it's binary." And I loved that. I came away from making this film with, yeah, I knew I wasn't alone. Nonbinary is a term used to describe a person's gender identity that falls outside the traditional male and female binary. Olivia and Ed married in 2001, and share three children - Finn, 20, Hall, 18, and a ten-year-old daughter, after falling in love in the nineties while rehearsing for a Cambridge Footlights production of Alan Ayckbourn's Table Manners. At the time, Olivia was studying teaching at Homerton College, Cambridge. Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky have showcased their comedic chops in an ad shown during the Super Bowl LX, which was viewed by over 120 million Americans. The commercial captured the Aussie couple in very different moods as they tested Amazon's new Alexa+ AI assistant. While Elsa, 49, appeared perfectly at ease with the futuristic home helper, Chris, 42, had a healthy dose of scepticism that quickly turned into comedic paranoia. In the ad, the Thor star imagines the ways his AI assistant could orchestrate his premature demise. 'It's all buddy-buddy, then the next second it's trying to kill us,' a distressed Chris warns, as Elsa calmly looks on. Alexa cheerily responds: 'Now, Chris, how would I do that?' Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky have showcased their comedic chops in an ad shown during the Super Bowl LX, capturing the Aussie couple in very different moods as they tested Amazon's new Alexa+ AI assistant (pictured) While Elsa, 49, appeared perfectly at ease with the futuristic home helper, Chris', 42, scepticism quickly turned into comedic paranoia What follows is a series of hilarious, over-the-top scenarios: Chris is crushed by his garage door after Alexa closes it on him, trapped underwater when the AI shuts the pool cover mid-swim, and even mauled by a bear after being sent outside. '[Just like that], you're a widow,' Chris warns, while Elsa deadpans: 'Right.' The ad, which aired in a prime-time Super Bowl slot, positions Elsa as the voice of reason, calmly dismissing her husband's wild fears. 'You're crazy,' she says, before heading off to a meeting Alexa had booked for her. This latest ad continues the couple's on-screen partnership, following earlier campaigns including a tourism spot for Visit Abu Dhabi - but in this outing, Chris proves that even superheroes can get nervous when the AI takes charge. Earlier this month, Chris shared a glimpse into family life in Australia with Elsa and their three children. The power couple, who married in 2010, share daughter India Rose, 13, and 11-year-old twin sons Sasha and Tristan. They relocated from the US in 2015 and now live in Byron Bay, a laid-back surf town just south of Australia's Gold Coast. Speaking in a new interview, Chris and Elsa opened up about their relaxed lifestyle Down Under. In the ad, the Thor star imagines the ways his AI assistant could orchestrate his premature demise. 'It's all buddy-buddy, then the next second it's trying to kill us,' a distressed Chris warns, as Elsa watches on, nonplussed What follows is a series of hilarious, over-the-top scenarios: In one, Chris is mauled by a bear after being sent outside to retrieve a 'package' Chris told PEOPLE: 'We got a big plot of land, a farm with horses, and our kids surf and fish and ride motorbikes all day.' Elsa added the lifestyle has been hugely beneficial for their family, saying: 'It helps a lot, especially in the house with three kids.' Chris also explained that the move has helped him prioritise family time, adding: 'I can focus on the more important things - I can hang out with my kids, I can hang with my wife, and we can go and have fun.' It comes after the actor opened up on his recent documentary about his dad's battle with Alzheimer's, calling the 'deeply personal' experience a 'love letter to my father'. The Hollywood star released A Road Trip To Remember last year, which followed him and his father Craig, 70, revisiting his childhood homes across Australia, following Craig's diagnosis with early-stage Alzheimer's. It came as a follow-up to his 2022 docuseries Limitless, where the actor learned he had two copies of the APOE4 gene one from each parent meaning he was eight to ten times more likely to develop the same disease. Opening up about releasing the emotional and heartfelt documentary in a new interview with The Guardian, Chris admitted that he struggled with the idea of going public with his innermost feelings. Millie Mackintosh has revealed she is looking into homeschooling her two daughters after they repeatedly question why they have to attend school. The former Made In Chelsea star, 36, said she has been researching the alternative form of education after struggling to understand why she should force daughters Sienna, five, and Aurelia, four, attend school when she herself hated it so much. Speaking on the Mum's The Word podcast with Georgia Jones and Kelsey Parker on Monday, Millie also suggested both her daughters may be 'on the neurodivergent spectrum', citing her youngest daughter's extreme pickiness with food and clothing as potential signs. Her candid revelations come amid reports of her shock split from husband and father of her children Hugo Taylor, 39, following seven years of marriage. 'My daughter - both of them - are just like, 'Why do I have to go to school, Mummy? Why?'' Millie said. 'I'm like, I get it. I hated going too. So I feel bad sometimes. 'I'm like, why do you have to go to school? And then suddenly I'm Googling homeschooling. I actually would love to homeschool them if it was what they wanted.' Millie Mackintosh has revealed she is looking into homeschooling her two daughters after they repeatedly question why they have to attend school Her candid revelations come amid reports of her shock split from husband and father of her children Hugo Taylor, 39, following seven years of marriage The former reality TV star also admitted that she's aware of the challenges it would entail if she took on the teaching herself. She said she recently had a trial run with her youngest daughter because her nursery hasn't re-opened since Christmas. 'Something's gone on. We don't know. It's being investigated, so we have had no nursery,' Millie added. 'I've tried to just reframe it and think I've had so much time with her this month. 'I was like, it's fine, I'll just homeschool her. Whatever they're doing at nursery, we'll just do it at home. Then I was like, I can't do that because I also need to work.' She continued: 'There's been a lot of iPad, not going to lie, while mummy gets work done.' Despite wanting to support her daughters' preferences, Millie admitted: 'Parenting is teaching me patience, but I definitely do not have enough patience to teach children.' She went on to discuss her belief that both girls may be neurodivergent due to behaviour that she feels is unusual for girls their age. Millie, who has spoken about her own Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD], said: 'We don't have a diagnosis, but I think Sienna maybe is [ADHD]. Sienna is me.' She then detailed specific behaviours from Aurelia which have led her to believe she also shows signs of being neurodivergent. 'My youngest, Aurelia, is so fussy in particular about things. And then I don't know where that falls, but somewhere on a spectrum for sure,' Millie explained. She said she has been researching the alternative form of education after struggling to understand why she should force daughters Sienna, five, and Aurelia, four, attend school when she herself hated it so much Amid the split the star headed to India last week on a solo wellness retreat designed to 'heal' the nervous system 'She is so attached - and I know maybe this is all kids - but she gets so attached to just one thing, one particular outfit, and it's that outfit every day for like a month. 'And she will barely eat any food. Just one food - pesto pasta, that is like her safe food. That's all she'll really eat. That's the only green thing that she eats.' The mother-of-two also revealed that Aurelia is still using a buggy and becomes extremely distressed when she tries to phase it out. 'I can't get her to go out the buggy. I can't get rid of the buggy. She just wants to be in the buggy,' she said. 'She gets so upset. She'll literally lie on the floor and cry and cry until you give in and be like, okay, we'll take the buggy.' Millie, who attended 26,300-a-year Hanford Boarding school in Dorset, also reflected on her own school struggles, attributing some of her behaviour to undiagnosed ADHD - a condition she has only recently come to understand. 'I found school quite difficult, so I was kind of wanting to rebel against anything I could,' she said, adding that she believes her ADHD contributed to her being 'the difficult one' growing up compared to her younger sister Alice. Millie has previously opened up on being a victim of cruel childhood taunts at the hands of bullies. In 2013 she admitted she was picked on so much in her teenage years that it got to the stage where she would refuse to go to school. Opening up in an interview with Fabulous magazine, she explained: 'I was bullied to the point where I wouldn't go to school. 'I was skinny, had glasses and wore braces to realign my jaw. 'I had full-on yellow hair after a home dye job and had really bad acne all over my forehead. 'At school people used to call me names like 'Sparrow Legs' because I had such long, gangly limbs. 'But you have to rise above that. My mum always told me to be confident. I learnt a long time ago how to deal with playground bullying. It's a life lesson. The revelations come as Millie navigates motherhood following her separation from Hugo, with whom she now co-parents. Insiders have suggested Millie's journey of self-discovery - including massive lifestyle changes after quitting drinking in 2022 - had widened the gap between the couple, who met in their teens and co-starred - as an on-off couple - in Made In Chelsea. 'The last couple of years have been completely transformative for Millie,' a source told The Sun last week. 'She's really come to understand who she is as a person - not a mother, not a wife but actually as herself.' Hugo and Millie had fans hooked through the highs and lows of their relationship that started on Made In Chelsea Millie has been candid about her struggles with addiction, revealing in her 2025 book Bad Drunk that she first turned to alcohol in her teens to cope with being bullied at school, a sexual assault, and social anxiety. She also admitted to hiding her use of anti-anxiety medication Xanax from Hugo during their marriage, saying she took it 'to deal with the hangovers... which also meant I could drink more'. The reality star said she reached her 'burnout moment' two years ago, describing it as potentially 'a breakdown' where she would 'lie on the floor crying' as soon as she got home. Since getting sober, Millie has become deeply invested in health and wellness - a passion sources say Hugo never fully shared, contributing to them being 'on very different paths'. Katie Price has reunited with her fourth husband Lee Andrews for their honeymoon, weeks after their whirlwind wedding left jaws dropping. The former glamour model, 47, shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to the so-called businessman, who has been the subject of a number of outrageous exposes about his work and relationships. In the wake of a number of questions over their marriage, the duo were finally reunited in his home city of Dubai, where they tied the knot, amid claims he is barred from leaving the United Arab Emirates. In a slew of romantic snaps, Lee and Katie cosied up, in what appeared to be heavily-filtered images shared on AI-loving Lee's Instagram account, which he shared shortly after Katie defended her husband in the face of the accusations. The couple posed up a storm in the images, one of which saw the couple place their hands over their faces to show the matching tattoos - after the duo had their names inked on their hands while Lee's features the 'spiritual' numbers 11.11. Katie Price has reunited with her fourth husband Lee Andrews for their honeymoon, weeks after their whirlwind wedding left jaws dropping The former glamour model, 47, shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to the so-called businessman, who has been subject of a number of outrageous exposes about his work and relationships One of Lee's snaps was captioned with 'Hubby & Wifey date' Just one day before, Katie finally addressed her whirlwind marriage, dismissing concerns about her new husband by insisting: 'I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing.' But her new marriage has sparked concern from loved ones, as Lee's facade has since crumbled, with accusations of using AI, appearing on an escort site and having a colourful history with women. Several of his ex-partners have made a slew of bombshell accusations against him, and issued public warnings to Katie, urging her to 'run for the hills'. However, the mother-of-five continued to defend her husband on Sunday, as she addressed the romance for the first time in her latest YouTube video, stating she was 'not a young kid' and 'will do what I want to do'. While packing her bags ready to go visit Lee in Dubai for the weekend, she began: 'I'm going back to Dubai, obviously going back to see Lee. I've made no comments about anything, I don't feel I need to make comments about anything... 'I'm fully aware like everyone else, I see stuff, I get sent stuff. What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a**e woman.' Several of his ex-partners have made a slew of bombshell accusations against him, and issue public warnings to Katie, urging her to 'run for the hills' While packing her bags ready to go visit Lee in Dubai for the weekend, she said: 'What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a**e woman' 'I'm 48 this year, I'm not a young kid. I've learned a lot in the past few years, through therapy and learning to love myself. So I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing and if I'm happy that's all that matters.' Katie continued to double down, insisting: 'At the end of the day, no one knows what I know. It's only been speculated by the press. I am very happy and that's all that matters. So happy that I'm going back to Dubai for the weekend. So I can't wait.' Prior to her trip, Katie showed off the expensive contents of her suitcases in her latest vlog where she filmed herself packing her things for a 'last-minute' two-day trip back to UAE, filling two bright pink suitcases with a number of very lavish items. Katie could be seen folding a number of outfits and swimwear into her case, revealing that she had all her bikinis made specially to fit her surgically-enhanced figure. Showing all the sets she was bringing, she said: 'I have all my bikinis made for me. All my bikinis are made to measure so they fit me perfectly. I have to have them made or they don't fit me properly.' Katie finally addressed her whirlwind marriage to Lee She also showed the vast array of different luxury perfumes she had packed. Among the fragrances were Acqua di Parma's Gelsomino A Freddo Eau de Parfum, which costs a whopping 290 and the 135 Juliette has a Gun Powder Love Eau de Parfum. She also showed off a bottle of Diptyque Eau de parfum, which retails for 170, declaring she has 'loads' of the luxury brand's fragrances. Katie also flashed a glimpse of a number of lingerie sets from Victoria's Secret and several skincare products from brands like Medik8 and OUAI. While she also flaunted a pair of padlock leather heels from designer Tom Ford, which cost a staggering 970. Iris Law was every inch the 'dream' cover girl as she posed for the February issue of Vogue Hong Kong in a series of stylish looks. The model daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost, 25, showcased her honed frame in a skimpy triangle bikini in one artsy black and white shot. The British nepo baby was also was snapped biting into a cream iced cake with decorative frosting, while sporting a colourful scarf top. Iris wore her signature platinum cropped locks in a slicked down style for the shoot, where she could also be seen tucking into a candy necklace. In the cover image, Iris was wearing a sleeveless blue blouse and navy vest, with a pair of belted trousers in the same shade. The Dior Beauty ambassador was playfully biting into chewy sweet, while the text on the cover said 'dream girl Iris Law'. Iris Law was every inch the 'dream' cover girl as she posed for the February issue of Vogue Hong Kong in a series of stylish looks The British nepo baby was also was snapped biting into a cream iced cake with decorative frosting, while sporting a colourful scarf top Iris wore her signature platinum cropped locks in a slicked down style for the shoot, where she could also be seen tucking into a candy necklace A second cover portrayed her knelt outside a doll's house surrounding by model people, some of which were clutched in her hand. Iris, who last week modelled Casablanca's new Resort 26 campaign, has been taking the fashion world by storm in recent years. She made her catwalk debut for lingerie giant Victoria's Secret last year, where appeared alongside sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski and Lila Moss. The Daily Mail exclusively revealed that Iris wanted to indulge in very specific sweets after her appearance at the lingerie show, a request that resulted in her assistants frantically darting around the city. It's understood that she had asked her team to track down specific cookies from one bakery and smoothies from another. Iris previously discussed her personal sense of style during an interview with Vogue Espana. 'I don't dress for anyone, I just try to feel good and be comfortable.' 'I let myself be carried away by how I am in an intuitive way, even if it's not what is understood as chic or cool,' she said. The Dior Beauty ambassador was playfully biting into chewy sweet, while the text on the cover said 'dream girl Iris Law A second cover portrayed her knelt outside a doll's house surrounding by model people, some of which were clutched in her hand 'I have gone through many phases: more feminine, more androgynous... I like to change; every day is different.' Iris also admitted to struggling with anxiety and using exercise as a constructive coping mechanism. She said: 'I love lifting weights; I think it's great for maintaining hormonal balance and it also helps me sleep better.' 'In general, I've noticed a big change in controlling my anxiety, also since I started running.' Cynthia Erivo looked worlds away from Wicked in the first official photo for her new one-woman show Dracula in London's West End. The actress, 39, is making a return to the stage following a disastrous press tour for the fantasy films, which saw her co-star Ariana Grande, 32, ridiculed over their 'creepy' behaviour. Cynthia is sinking her teeth into the role of Dracula and 22 other characters in the unique adaptation of Bram Stoker's iconic novel at the Noel Coward Theatre. In the gothic snap the actress can be seen with a red wig styled into finger waves while also sporting a pair of fans and her trademark acrylic fingernails. No stranger to the West End Cynthia made her debut in The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg back in 2011, before winning the 2013 Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in The Colour Purple. She recreated that award-winning role for the Broadway production and scooped the Best Actress In A Musical Tony in 2016. Cynthia Erivo looked worlds away from Wicked in the first official photo for her new one-woman show Dracula in London's West End The actress, 39, is making a return to the stage following a disastrous press tour for the fantasy film, which saw her co-star Ariana Grande, 32, ridiculed over their 'creepy' behaviour Cynthia could finally start to receive the glory she deserves in her new one-woman following a disastrous Wicked press tour. Since the release of Wicked in 2024 and its sequel last year, she and Ariana have been lambasted with criticism over their behaviour during the promo blitz. Cynthia, who starred as Elphaba, and Ariana, as Glinda, were snubbed of an Oscar nomination this season despite the rave reviews the movie has received. The pair's viral and overly affectionate press tour displays are allegedly why Oscar voters snubbed the pair after feeling 'creeped out'. In addition to their 'cringeworthy' red carpet moments, the actresses' noticeable weight loss was called out by concerned fans. After the actress' movie success was overshadowed by press tour missteps, fears for Cynthia's reputation heightened when the first few performances of her West End play were cancelled. Thankfully, the play is set to debut last Saturday (February 7) and is set to continue playing until May 31. Originally due to start on February 4, producers cancelled the first three nights of her one-woman play due to production delays. Cynthia is sinking her teeth into the role of Dracula and 22 other characters in the unique adaptation of Bram Stoker's iconic novel at the Noel Coward Theatre Cynthia won 2013 Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in The Colour Purple, before going on to win a 2016 Tony (pictured) after taking the show to Broadway The complicated technical nature of the production led to the initial preview cancellations, with communications to existing customers saying: 'As Dracula moves through the final stages of preparation, the technical scale of the production has demanded additional time to ensure audiences experience this story exactly as it is intended.' Speaking about her upcoming roles, the actress said: 'Returning to the stage feels like a homecoming, one that I've been craving for a long time. 'To do so with a story as rich, complex, and haunting as DRACULA offers a beautiful opportunity to delve into character, into myth, and into the heart of what makes us human. 'From the moment I was asked, I could not get the role out of my mind. Kip's vision is thrilling, terrifying, and deeply resonant, offering a chance to sit with not only the darkness in the world, but also the light we fight to hold onto. 'It's a rare gift for an actor to inhabit so many voices and perspectives in one piece, and I'm honoured to do it for West End audiences in this extraordinary production. Since the release of Wicked in 2024 and its sequel last year, she and Ariana have been lambasted with criticism over their behaviour during the promo blitz 'The prospect of doing this show scares me and I know it will be a huge challenge. This show will ask everything of me and I'm ready to give it.' Fury surrounding Ariana and Cynthia's Oscar snub sparked one anonymous voter to reveal the reason behind it. Oscar voters were allegedly put off by the pair's overly affectionate press tour displays - according to News Nation. 'The movie wasnt that great. The two have amazing on-screen chemistry but spent most of the movie apart,' the voter told the outlet's Paula Froelich. It was added: 'I was also just completely turned off by their promotional performances. They creeped a lot of people out and in their rush to feel authentic, came off as cosplaying.' The Daily Mail has reached out to representatives from The Academy over these claims and has yet to hear back. They say that two's company and three's a crowd - but Katie Price's honeymoon has now become a foursome. The glamour model, 47, reunited with her husband of around two weeks, Lee Andrews, 43, in Dubai on Sunday and they've been joined by Kerry Katona, 45, and her toyboy boyfriend Paolo Margaglione, 33. Lee shared a picture of the four of them posing together in the sunshine at a beach club in Dubai alongside the song, Coolio's Gangsta's Paradise, as well as a picture of him with Kerry and Katie posing either side of him. Katie showed off her heavily tattooed frame in a skimpy orange bikini as she cosied up to Lee, who wore Gucci swimming trunks. Kerry wore a triangle golden bikini as she cosied up to Paolo, who she met on television show, Celebs Go Dating. Katie Price, (second from right) and Lee Andrews have been joined on their Dubai honeymoon by bikini-clad Kerry Katona, 45, and her toyboy boyfriend Paolo Margaglione, 33 Lee shared a pictures from a beach club in Dubai alongside the song, Coolio's Gangsta's Paradise, as well as a picture of him with Kerry and Katie posing either side of him Kerry is a close friend of Katie's and has been looking out for her during a torrid time Lee then shared a picture of himself with Kerry as she threw an arm around him Lee then shared a picture of Katie and Kerry posing alongside one another in their bikinis, as well as a fourth picture of himself with Kerry. Katie flew out via business class. The Daily Mail previously revealed Lee spent three weeks locked up in a UAE jail for allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in his ex's name and has been banned from leaving the country. He denies this, but as yet, does not appear to have left the country. Lee had previously said he would be flying to the UK to meet Katie there soon after they wed, but changed his mind and decided to stay in Dubai to find them a home together. He then said he would be leaving the country so they could go travelling to start their honeymoon, but they still seem to be in the United Arab Emirates. Elsewhere, Kerry and Paolo documented their trip out there, with Paolo sharing a picture of them both in business class, writing: 'Sleeping beauty' alongside a picture of a snoozing Kerry. Katie shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to so-called businessman Lee, who has been the subject of a number of outrageous exposes about his work and relationships. In a slew of romantic snaps posted on Monday morning, Lee and Katie cosied up in what appeared to be heavily-filtered images shared on AI-loving Lee's Instagram account, which he shared shortly after Katie defended her husband in the face of the accusations. The couple posed up a storm in the images, one of which saw the couple place their hands over their faces to show the matching tattoos - after the duo had their names inked on their hands while Lee's features the 'spiritual' numbers 11.11. Just a day before, Katie finally addressed her whirlwind marriage, dismissing concerns about her new husband by insisting: 'I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing.' But her new marriage has sparked concern from loved ones, as Lee's facade has since crumbled, with accusations of using AI, appearing on an escort site and having a colourful history with women. Several of his ex-partners have made a slew of bombshell accusations against him, and issued public warnings to Katie, urging her to 'run for the hills'. However, the mother-of-five continued to defend her husband on Sunday, as she addressed the romance for the first time in her latest YouTube video, stating she was 'not a young kid' and 'will do what I want to do'. While packing her bags ready to go visit Lee in Dubai, she began: 'I'm going back to Dubai, obviously going back to see Lee. I've made no comments about anything, I don't feel I need to make comments about anything... 'I'm fully aware like everyone else, I see stuff, I get sent stuff. What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a**e woman. Katie reunited with her fourth husband Lee on Sunday for their honeymoon, around two weeks after their whirlwind wedding left jaws dropping The former glamour model, 47, shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to the so-called businessman, who has been subject of a number of outrageous exposes about his work and relationships The Daily Mail previously revealed Lee spent three weeks locked up in a UAE jail for allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in his ex's name and has been banned from leaving the country. He denies this, but as yet, does not appear to have left the country While packing her bags ready to go visit Lee in Dubai, she said: 'What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a**e woman' 'I'm 48 this year, I'm not a young kid. I've learned a lot in the past few years, through therapy and learning to love myself. So I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing and if I'm happy that's all that matters.' Katie continued to double down, insisting: 'At the end of the day, no one knows what I know. It's only been speculated by the press. I am very happy and that's all that matters. So happy that I'm going back to Dubai for the weekend. So I can't wait.' Prior to her trip, Katie showed off the expensive contents of her suitcases in her latest vlog where she filmed herself packing her things for a 'last-minute' two-day trip back to UAE, filling two bright pink suitcases with a number of very lavish items. Katie could be seen folding a number of outfits and swimwear into her case, revealing that she had all her bikinis made specially to fit her surgically-enhanced figure. Showing all the sets she was bringing, she said: 'I have all my bikinis made for me. All my bikinis are made to measure so they fit me perfectly. I have to have them made or they don't fit me properly.' She also showed the vast array of different luxury perfumes she had packed. Among the fragrances were Acqua di Parma's Gelsomino A Freddo Eau de Parfum, which costs a whopping 290 and the 135 Juliette has a Gun Powder Love Eau de Parfum. She also showed off a bottle of Diptyque Eau de parfum, which retails for 170, declaring she has 'loads' of the luxury brand's fragrances. Katie also flashed a glimpse of a number of lingerie sets from Victoria's Secret and several skincare products from brands like Medik8 and OUAI. While she also flaunted a pair of padlock leather heels from designer Tom Ford, which cost a staggering 970. From Hollywood to Wall Street, Sydney Sweeney really is everywhere nowadays. On Monday, the A-list actress became the latest star to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Sweeney, 28, kicked off Monday's trading session for American Eagle Outfitters, the clothing brand she has served as the face of - and one which inadvertently plunged her into controversy. Smiling, clapping, and posing alongside the staff, it seems the controversial 'great jeans' campaign Sweeney starred in last year for American Eagle was now behind her. Sweeney received the red carpet welcome for her Wall Street adventures, strutting inside in style before making her way through the first floor of the stock exchange. She was surrounded by various AE executives as she rang the bell from the stock exchange's legendary balcony, offering polite applause once the clanging erupted. Sydney Sweeney rang the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange for American Eagle Outfitters on Monday Sweeney, seen Monday, was looking absolutely incredible in denim Over the summer, Sweeney found herself at the center of a heated controversy after she appeared in an American Eagle ad featuring the tagline 'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,' a pun on 'great genes'. The phrase and Sweeneys blonde good looks - ignited a heated debate online when it launched in July with many accusing the company of promoting eugenics and white supremacy. Some even compared the ad to 'Nazi propaganda'. In a recent interview with People, the Euphoria star said that staying silent about the controversial ad only fueled the uproar. 'I was honestly surprised by the reaction,' Sweeney said. 'I did it because I love the jeans and love the brand. I dont support the views some people chose to connect to the campaign. 'Many have assigned motives and labels to me that just arent true,' she added. American Eagle took a strong stance against the backlash, maintaining the campaign focused on personal style, confidence and authenticity. '"Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans" is and always was about the jeans,' the company stated in an August 1 post on Instagram. 'Her jeans. Her story. We'll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way. Great jeans look good on everyone.' Sweeney insisted shes 'against hate' and 'leads with kindness,' and the reason shes confronting the issue now is to banish the negative energy. Drenched in denim, the star was shown through the floor of the New York Stock Exchange From Hollywood to Wall Street, Sweeney really is taking the world by storm AE executives beamed as they watched Sweeney sign a book The star served as the face of the brand's controversial 'great jeans' campaign last year Based on the smiles on everyone's faces, it seemed the debacle was all behind them 'Anyone who knows me knows that Im always trying to bring people together. Im against hate and divisiveness,' said the star. 'In the past my stance has been to never respond to negative or positive press but recently I have come to realize that my silence regarding this issue has only widened the divide, not closed it. 'So, I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.' The actress first addressed the furor over her American Eagle ad in a November interview with GQ, saying she did a jean ad and was too busy filming to notice the backlash. 'I did a jean ad. I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. Im literally in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life,' she told the magazine. Sweeney's presence was felt in Wall Street as a massive poster featuring the Hollywood star was displayed outside the building The Anyone But You star was drenched in leather for her Wall Street adventure The A-lister got a red carpet welcome at NYSE Sweeney made a stylish arrival as she prepared to take Wall Street by storm The star made time for a photo op inside the stock exchange Sydney made her mark - literally - on her big day, signing what appeared to be a wall of autographs at the stock exchange For another outing later that day, she worked a corset inspired denim dress and knee-high boots 'I knew at the end of the day what that ad was for, and it was great jeans, it didn't affect me one way or the other. 'I've always believed that I'm not here to tell people what to think. I know who I am. I know what I value. I know that I'm a kind person. I know that I love a lot, and I know that I'm just excited to see what happens next. And so I don't really let other people define who I am.' Her response at that time was perceived by some media critics and fans as dismissive. Despite an initial drop, the campaign soon reached its goal by standing out in a competitive market. After the ad debuted, the buzz and debate enabled American Eagle to win a huge number of new customers. Soaring sales led to jean sell-outs and boosted investor interests. Jeff Goldblum, 73, made a very rare appearance with his wife and two young sons in Italy this week. The Jurassic Park actor wore a black leather jacket with pale gray jeans while his 43-year-old spouse Emilie Livingston was in a black suit with fitted button down shirt. They were with their sons Charlie Ocean, 10, and River Joe, eight, who were dressed casually in sweatshirts and sneakers. The family of four was attending the welcome cocktail party for the guests of the Friday Opening Ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics held at the Teatro alla Scala. This comes after the movie star shared what a joy it is to have two young children at home. The opening ceremony featured Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli. Jeff Goldblum, 73, made a very rare appearance with wife and two young sons when in Italy The Jurassic Park actor wore a black leather jacket with pale gray jeans while his 43-year-old spouse Emilie Livingston was in a black suit with fitted button down shirt In 2022, Goldblum said it was fun to be a new dad in his later years while admitting his brood of two are like 'feral creatures unleashed.' The actor spoke about fatherhood during an appearance on NBC's Today. He said: 'It's amazing, it's revivifying, and makes my relationship with Emilie, frankly, enhanced. Seeing [my wife] in this new role is unbelievable. She's heroic beyond imagination.' 'And it's challenging and it's sometimes maddening and very volatile. As you know, at three and five, five and seven, they can be like feral creatures unleashed.' The star concluded: 'Oh yeah, and sweet and amazing. It's great.' In 2019, Jeff spoke candidly about his marriage, and admitted he had 'never been particularly passionate' about fatherhood before having his children. Of becoming a dad, the star told Radio Times: 'I never thought that I was going to do it. I had never been particularly passionate [about fatherhood] or envisioned it for myself I dont have any nieces or nephews, had never seen a birth before. Join the debate Is it ever too late in life to start a family, or does age make parenting richer and more rewarding? They were with their sons Charlie Ocean, 10, and River Joe, eight, were dressed casually in sweatshirts and sneakers The family of four was attending the welcome cocktail party for the guests of the Friday Opening Ceremony of the Milan/Cortina 2026 Olympicsheld at the Teatro alla Scala The actor wed Canadian dancer Emilie in 2015, which was his third time walking down the aisle after previously tying the knot with actresses Patricia Gaul and Geena Davis Read More Hollywood height report: Kourtney Kardashian, Kristen Bell and Mila Kunis are MUCH shorter than their men 'In the couple of lovely previous marriages I had, there was some fantasy talk about it, but never any serious business. And I always thought it was a good thing that I didnt have any drama with kids and breaking up.' Of how he and the Canadian Olympic gymnast came to a decision about having children, he added: 'We thought about it for a year, talked about it with my therapist, went in together, and after a year of that, I said, "Yeah, this sounds kinda good, lets get married and have kids."' The Emmy nominee also went on to say that he hoped, and felt, they would 'be together now' for the rest of their lives. Discussing how he raises his two sons, Jeff said his The Grand Budapest Hotel co-star Tilda Swinton advised him to show his little ones silent films by Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, while he also intends to read them PG Wodehouse's books when they're 'old enough.' The actor wed Canadian dancer Emilie in 2015, which was his third time walking down the aisle after previously tying the knot with actresses Patricia Gaul and Geena Davis. Livingston, Brian Boitano and Goldblum attend the Winter House on February 7 in Milan Emilie has previously admitted it was 'scary' when she first laid bare her desire to settle down with the star. In a sweet tribute to her husband, the athlete wrote on Instagram: 'Loved and appreciated! @jeffgoldblum always makes me feel loved- from the first day we met! 'At first I wondered if this feeling could be true because I hadn't experienced such innocent, passionate, tender, honest love before so quickly. Some people like to play games and play hard to get.' She continued: 'But we were just honest and aware from day one and took our relationship day by day until I had to express my feelings of wanting a family with HIM and to share the rest of my life with his beautiful soul! 'That was a scary day, opening myself up completely, knowing he might not want kids or to marry again. In 2019, Jeff spoke candidly about his marriage, and admitted he had 'never been particularly passionate' about fatherhood before having his children Seen three years ago with his boys and wife in the desert 'And we just kept talking about it together and with our therapist until we decided that it was the right thing to do!' This comes after Goldblum 'stopped eating meat' after grappling with the theme of animal cruelty in Wicked: For Good. The actor stars in the musical blockbuster as the Wizard of Oz - who uses animals as a scapegoat to maintain his totalitarian control over the Emerald City and Oz - and Goldblum has now revealed he has become a vegetarian after playing the villain in Wicked: For Good 'changed' him. During an appearance on This Morning, Goldblum said: 'It's uncommon that you get to be doing this over a period of time and get more fertile and juicy and interesting and relevant roles for yourself at this period of time. 'Working with [director] Jon M. Chu [is] amazing. It's changed me. You know, after doing this movie, we talked about the animal cruelty, I stopped eating meat and poultry. So this Christmas and Thanksgiving, I may be having another something else. 'We need the world to work for everybody on Earth and every creature, too.' Princess Andre is said to be 'completely horrified' by her mum Katie Price's new marriage to Lee Andrews after the 18-year-old 'discovered the news online'. The former glamour model, 47, shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to the so-called businessman. Her new marriage has sparked concern from Princess and the rest of her family, as Lee's facade has since crumbled, with accusations of using AI, appearing on an escort site and having a colourful history with women. Several of his ex-partners have made a slew of bombshell accusations against him, and issued public warnings to Katie, urging her to 'run for the hills'. Following the number of outrageous exposes about Lee's work and relationships, Princess took matters into her own hands after getting 'alarm bells'. 'Princess learnt about her mum's wedding online like everyone else and has been completely horrified', a source said. Princess Andre is said to be 'completely horrified' by her mum Katie Price's new marriage to Lee Andrews after the 18-year-old 'discovered the news online' (seen in 2023) The former glamour model, 47, shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to the so-called businessman 'She's read the stories and all the stuff on TikTok about his ex wives and instantly alarm bells started ringing', The Sun reports. The publication alleged that Princess helped stage an intervention between her mum and Lee's exes before she returned to Dubai for her honeymoon. The insider continued: 'Princess is very sharp and realised straight away that if her mum wouldn't listen to her or any of their family, she might take on board what women in the same situation have had to say about it all. 'She saw her mum a few days ago and forced her to speak to his exes to hear their side of the story.' The sourced added Princess is 'utterly heartbroken and deeply concerned' about her mum. Katie and Princess' representatives declined to comment. Katie continued to defend her husband on Sunday, as she addressed the romance for the first time in her latest YouTube video, stating she was 'not a young kid' and 'will do what I want to do'. While packing her bags ready to go visit Lee in Dubai for the weekend, she began: 'I'm going back to Dubai, obviously going back to see Lee. I've made no comments about anything, I don't feel I need to make comments about anything... Her new marriage has sparked concern from Princess and the rest of her family, as Lee's facade has since crumbled, with accusations of using AI, appearing on an escort site and having a colourful history with women Following the number of outrageous exposes about Lee's work and relationships, Princess took matters into her own hands after getting 'alarm bells' 'I'm fully aware like everyone else, I see stuff, I get sent stuff. What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a**e woman. 'I'm 48 this year, I'm not a young kid. I've learned a lot in the past few years, through therapy and learning to love myself. So I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing and if I'm happy that's all that matters.' Katie continued to double down, insisting: 'At the end of the day, no one knows what I know. It's only been speculated by the press. I am very happy and that's all that matters. So happy that I'm going back to Dubai for the weekend. So I can't wait.' The Daily Mail previously revealed Lee spent three weeks locked up in a UAE jail for allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in his ex's name and has been banned from leaving the country. He denies this, but as yet, does not appear to have left the country. Lee had previously said he would be flying to the UK to meet Katie there soon after they wed, but changed his mind and decided to stay in Dubai to find them a home together. He then said he would be leaving the country so they could go travelling to start their honeymoon, but they still seem to be in the United Arab Emirates. She had a role opposite Meg Ryan in the movie Sleepless In Seattle and worked with Julia Roberts on Larry Crowne. And this brunette beauty has appeared in several other films such as Volunteers, Jingle All The Way and My Big Fat Greek Wedding. When she popped up in a small role in the Yellowstone prequel 1883 with pals Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, fans were surprised. She has also been married to an A-list Oscar-winning movie star for decades as they prove to be a solid Hollywood couple. The star recently posted a flashback photo from when she was on The Brady Bunch in the 1972 episode Greg's Triangle. Can you guess who she is? She had a role opposite Meg Ryan in the movie Sleepless In Seattle and worked with Julia Robertson Larry Crowne, who is she? The actress was 15 when she landed a role on The Brady Bunch in 1972 She is Hollywood actress Rita Wilson who worked as a model then starred in dozens of movies. Wilson had said in the past of the tank top photo: 'Dont know who took the picture. I dont remember even taking it. I remember being a happy teenager, excited about what the future could hold. Soon after this I would get my first fashion layout for @harpersbazaarus shot by @albertwatsonphotography and my first acting job which got me my @sagaftra card for being on The Brady Bunch.' Her resume includes Volunteers (1985), Sleepless in Seattle (1993), Now and Then (1995), That Thing You Do! (1996), Jingle All the Way (1996), The Story of Us (1999), Runaway Bride (1999), It's Complicated (2009), and Larry Crowne (2011). Wilson has also appeared in the television series The Good Wife and Girls. Next she will star with Jennifer Garner on season two of the show The Last Thing He Told Me. The series returns on February 20. The star has been married to Tom Hanks since 1988. Together they have sons Chet and Truman Hanks. Hanks already had two children from a previous marriage, Colin and Elizabeth Hanks. Rita also works as a film producer; she's credited with the box-office hit My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) and involvement in the Mamma Mia! film series. Wilson's music career includes the albums AM/FM (2012), Halfway to Home (2019), and Now & Forever: Duets (2022). And this brunette beauty has appeared in several other films such as Volunteers, Jingle All The Wat and My Big Fat Greek Wedding She is Hollywood actress Rita Wilson who worked as a model then starred in dozens of movies. Her resume includes Volunteers (1985), That Thing You Do! (1996), Jingle All the Way (1996), The Story of Us (1999), Runaway Bride (1999), and Larry Crowne (2011). Seen on February 3 Next she will star with Jennifer Garner on season two of the show The Last Thing He Told Me. The series returns on February 20 Wilson was born in Los Angeles to Greek parents who raised her in the Greek Orthodox faith. Her career began with a guest appearance on The Brady Bunch in the 1972 and she also twice appeared on M*A*S*H in 1982 as Nurse Lacey. Next came Three's Company and Bosom Buddies starring her future husband Hanks and Frasier. She has appeared in numerous films, including Volunteers, Barbarians at the Gate, The Bonfire of the Vanities, Mixed Nuts and Sleepless in Seattle. Hanks and Wilson in the film Sleepless In Seattle in 1993; the movie starred Meg Ryan (L-R) Colin Hanks, Wilson and Tom Hanks attend the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Opening Gala in LA in 2021 Wilson with her son Chet Hanks at the 68th GRAMMY Awards Pre-GRAMMY Gala & GRAMMY Salute To Industry Icons on January 31 Then came Now and Then, That Thing You Do!, Jingle All the Way, Runaway Bride, Invisible Child, The Story of Us, Raise Your Voice, It's Complicated and Larry Crowne. In 2006, Wilson made her Broadway debut when she performed the role of Roxie Hart in a revival of Chicago. Wilson's debut solo album AM/FM was released in 2012. In 2016, Wilson released her self-titled album. With her third album, Bigger Picture, Wilson drew directly from her personal life for its theme; it was released in 2018. In 2019, Wilson released her fourth album, Halfway to Home. In 2022, Wilson came out with her duets album Now & Forever, a collection of covers with male vocalists. Catherine O'Hara's cause of death has been revealed days after her passing shocked Hollywood. O'Hara, best known for her roles in the holiday classic Home Alone and TV show Schitt's Creek, died aged 71 on January 30. The actress suffered from a blood clot in her lungs, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office report obtained by TMZ. O'Hara's immediate cause of death is listed as pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer as the underlying cause. This is the first time it has been claimed that the Hollywood icon had cancer. Catherine O'Hara's cause of death has been revealed after she died aged 71 on January 30 A blood clot in the lungs, known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), is most commonly caused by a blood clot, usually from the leg or pelvis, breaking free and traveling to the lung, a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), according to the Mayo Clinic. Key risk factors include surgery, prolonged immobility, cancer, pregnancy, hormone therapy, and smoking. Rectal cancer is a kind of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the rectum, per the Mayo Clinic. The rectum is the last several inches of the large intestine. It starts at the end of the final segment of the colon and ends at the short, narrow passage known as the anus. Earlier in her adult life, she was diagnosed with dextrocardia with situs inversus, a condition where the heart is located on the right side of the chest. Soon after O'Hara died, her family said that the star suffered from a 'brief illness'. An ambulance was called out to the actress's home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, just before 5am on the morning of her death and she was reported to be in a 'serious condition'. She passed away in a hospital in the city. Her husband, Bo Welch, and their sons, Matthew and Luke, shared an obituary, and soon after, there was a private celebration of life. The last time she was seen in public was at the Angel Awards at the Proper Hotel Santa Monica on October 16 last year. The event is Upward Bound Houses signature gala. The last photo of O'Hara, seen left with her husband, Bo Welch, at the Angel Awards at the Proper Hotel Santa Monica on October 16 last year. Right, at the Emmys in September A guest told the Daily Mail the star appeared slender. 'Her face was almost gaunt, but she still looked very pretty - she is a striking-looking woman - and she had a touch of glam going on. She hid her figure in a bulky green pinstriped suit. 'She seemed to be in great spirits, however, and was very friendly and upbeat and lovely.' WHAT CAUSES A BLOOD CLOT IN THE LUNGS? A blood clot in the lungs, known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), is most commonly caused by a blood clotusually from the leg or pelvisbreaking free and traveling to the lung. The condition is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), according to the Mayo Clinic. Key risk factors include surgery (particularly orthopedic surgery, hip or knee), prolonged immobility (long periods of sitting, such as long flights or car rides, or extended bed rest - hospitalization - slow blood flow, increasing risk) cancer and its treatment, pregnancy, hormone therapy, and smoking. Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy increase clotting risk. Advertisement The movie star was born in Toronto, Canada, and was one of seven children. Her first experience of acting was playing the Virgin Mary in a Nativity play. O'Hara worked as a waitress at the Second City Theater in Toronto after leaving high school. As a waitress, she came across the likes of Dan Aykroyd and Joe Flaherty. Speaking to People in 2024, the actress said: 'I was lucky enough to watch everybody.' O'Hara eventually joined the company in 1974. However, she later confessed that she felt anxious whenever she was on stage. She told The New Yorker in 2019: 'My crutch was, in improvs, when in doubt, play insane. Because you didn't have to excuse anything that came out of your mouth. It didn't have to make sense.' The star eventually landed a role on a TV sketch show called Second City Television, which was broadcast on NBC in the 80s. The actress became famous for her impressions of various well-known celebrities, including Meryl Streep and Brooke Shields. O'Hara made her film debut in 1980, when she starred alongside the likes of John Candy and Eugene Levy in Double Negative. In 1988, she starred as Delia Deetz, the stepmother of Winona Ryder's Lydia, in the hit movie Beetlejuice, which proved to be a huge commercial success. And in 1990, she played Macaulay Culkin's on-screen mom in Home Alone. O'Hara, who reprised her role for 1992's Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, told People: 'It's a perfect movie, isn't it?' With Eugene Levy on Schitt's Creek season five in 2019 With Tim Burton, Jenna Ortega, Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder in 2024's Beetlejuice Her other roles included Best in Show in 2000 and 2003's A Mighty Wind, as well as the Beetlejuice sequel in 2024. In 2020, O'Hara won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her performance in the hit TV sitcom Schitt's Creek, which was created by Eugene and Daniel Levy. During her acceptance speech, O'Hara, who also won a Golden Globe and a SAG Award, said: 'I will forever be grateful to Eugene and Daniel Levy for the opportunity to play a woman of a certain age, my age, who gets to fully be herself.' O'Hara is survived by her husband, Bo, and their sons, Matthew and Luke. John Travolta took to Instagram on Sunday to share a photo with his two children, daughter Ella Bleu and son Ben. The 71-year-old actor's rarely seen 15-year-old son towered over him in the loved-up image, as Ella, 25, smiled and rested her head on her dad's shoulder. Travolta lovingly wrapped an arm around Ben in the snapshot, which was taken outdoors on a city street at nighttime. He wrote in a caption to his 5.6 million followers, 'My beautiful babies in my belated Christmas card 2025. Hope all is going well.' Ella took to the comments to drop three red heart emojis, and the post has so far collected more than 108,000 likes. The longtime entertainer shares his children with late wife Kelly Preston, who died of breast cancer in July 2020 at age 57. John Travoltatook to Instagram on Sunday to share a photo with his two children, daughter Ella Bleu and son Ben He wrote in a caption to his 5.6 million followers, 'My beautiful babies in my belated Christmas card 2025. Hope all is going well' Travolta and Preston also shared son Jett, who tragically died of a seizure at age 16 in 2009. The Grease star continues to keep his late wife's memory alive, and often posts tribute photos of her. On what would have been her 63rd birthday last October, the actor took to Instagram to share a song he performed in her honor. He uploaded a photo of his wife and wrote in the caption, 'I recorded this song for Kelly and I want to share it with you all on her birthday. Happy birthday Kelly, we love you. -John, Ella and Ben.' Ella left a comment of three red heart emojis. And on Mother's Day last year, the Hollywood star shared an old family photo, writing, 'Happy Mothers Day Kelly! You did a great job!! We love you!' Ella and her dad are famously extremely close, with the pair often supporting one another via social media. Prior to his most recent post, the actor rang in the New Year with his daughter and shared video footage of them enjoying fireworks as the clock struck 12am. The Grease star shared his kids with late wife Kelly Preston The close-knit family pictured in an old Instagram post shared by the proud dad The father-daughter duo will collaborate on an upcoming action thriller called Black Tides; pictured in October 2024 He captioned, 'Happy New Year! Have the best 2026!' The father-daughter duo will collaborate on an upcoming action thriller called Black Tides. The movie written by Chris Sparling and Angel Agudo with Renny Harlin directing is about 'rogue orcas.' According to a synopsis, the movie 'follows Bill Pierce (John), an estranged father trying to reconnect with his daughter Rebecca (Ella) and grandson Sebastian (Dylan Torrell) when their sailboat is attacked by rogue orcas off the southern Spanish coast.' It subsequently ignites a 'fight for survival across open waters,' per Deadline. Travolta and Ella previously worked together on 2019s The Poison Rose and 2009s Old Dogs. Dubbed the 'Duchess of Excess', Sarah Ferguson's insatiable quest for cash was made abundantly clear when she accepted a loan of 15,000 from Jeffrey Epstein in 2011. It was later revealed by The Mail on Sunday that she had been secretly bankrolled by the offender for up to 15 years; while a string of new revelations from the Epstein files have shown how Sarah, now 66, was eager to enjoy the perks of her friendship with the billionaire. The offender repeatedly organised accommodation for the former Duchess in the US, and was asked to pay almost $15,000 for flights for Fergie, Beatrice and Eugenie to visit him just 48 hours after his prison release. The disgraced ex-Duchess racked up debts in excess of 3.7million by 1994 and continually relied on Epstein for financial support, but it's perhaps no surprise given her penchant for living lavishly. Revelations of Royal Excess at Sunninghill Writing in their book, Sarah's Story: The Duchess who Defied the Royal House of Windsor, Chris Hutchins and Peter Thompson laid bare the true extent of her excesses. The co-authors spoke to staff members at the royal's sprawling 50,000-acre Sunninghill Estate to gain a real insight into Fergie's numerous 'foibles', including a requirement to have all of her knickers, bras and tights meticulously ironed by staff. If any of her laundry did not smell of her preferred fabric conditioner 'she would order everything to be washed again'. The former Duchess was also insistent that 'two hot water bottles be placed on the side of her king-sized bed each night, ordering staff to measure the temperature of the water so it was exactly to her liking'. Morning Rituals and Expensive Tastes Behind Palace Walls Fergie was also adamant that she should receive freshly squeezed orange juice every morning, with the oranges squeezed 'just as she sat down'. 'She could tell the difference if the juice had been prepared earlier and refused to touch it,' added Mr Hutchins and Mr Thompson. Sarah and Andrew, since stripped of their royal titles, were said to have spent 300-a-week on vegetables at Waitrose, while their freezer was also filled with numerous ice creams that were hardly touched. Even the royal couple's Jack Russel, Bendicks, enjoyed a life of utter luxury - with one friend recalling how staff were made to cook the dog 'proper dinners, liver or sausages with gravy'. And while Andrew became increasingly concerned about the rising costs of their energy bills, Fergie was said to have 'defiantly' turned the lights and heating back on, according to royal author Andrew Lownie. Post-It Labels Reveal Fergies Unusual Organising Habits Indicative of Fergie's bizarre habits, the former Duchess revealed during an interview with American comedian Ruby Wax that she labelled all of her clothes with unsightly Post-It stickers. The interaction was captured during an episode of Ms Wax's BBC One show When Ruby Wax Meets... and left Ms Wax in stitches after she discovered that the makeshift labels indicated that Fergie colour-coded her t-shirts as 'smart pink' and 'smart white' ones. When Ruby asked Fergie whether she was 'too lazy' to check what was in each drawer, the mother of two said the labels helped her save time while getting her daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, ready for school. Writing in his book, Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, Mr Lownie described how Fergie's excessive spending also extended towards her travels abroad. The royal author revealed how in the summer of 1994, Fergie rented the lavish villa Domaine La Fontaine near Cannes in the South of France at an eye-watering cost of 20,000. A Self-Catering Villa Run Like a Royal Court Despite the villa being considered self-catering, the former Duchess was joined by a butler, two housekeepers, a personal dresser, general assistant, nanny and sherpa friend Yeltsin. Young Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were also joined by two Scotland Yard protection officers, while Fergie's assistants also appeared on the trip to provide assistance. Never one to be frugal, a truck was driven from England to provide sun loungers and swimming pool toys for the children, while an additional five telephone lines were installed in the property. 'There was a daily delivery of wine, including Laurent-Perrier rose champagne and her favourite Puligny-Montrachet at 50 a bottle, often opened and then not drunk,' added Mr Lownie. The Duchess was also said to have partied with the likes of Pamela Stephenson and musician Billy Connolly, alongside Sir David Frost, Roger Moore and pop star Belinda Carlisle at a cost of over 100,000. SouthYork: A Mansion Fit for Excess Perhaps one of Fergie's most lavish expenses is her 12-bedroom Sunninghill Park mansion, the former marital home she shared with Andrew in Ascot, Berkshire. The 12-bedroom mansion which, in a twist on JR's Dallas ranch Southfork became known as SouthYork, was eventually sold in 2007 to Timur Kulibayev, son-in-law of the former president of Kazakhstan, at a cost of 15million. Inside, the Duchess had a marble bathtub dubbed 'HMS Fergie' by builders due to its incredibly vast size, while the lavish mansion also contained 'its own helicopter landing pad, a cinema, pool room and swimming pool, and 20 rooms of staff quarters', according to Mr Lownie. After walking up the mansion's 'curved staircase', the couple's master bedroom boasted an expansive four-poster bed and mint-green canopy, alongside 'one of the world's largest walk-in wardrobes', measuring 100ft by 50ft. A spare room was decorated with ape-covered wallpaper and dubbed the 'Money Room', while the downstairs toilet contained a musical loo-roll holder that was believed to have played 'God Save the Queen'. Sunninghill Park. Security, Excess, and Royal Initials Everywhere Other unique features that highlighted the Duke and Duchess's unparalleled expensive taste included 12 installed phone lines, blast-proof plastic walls, bedrooms containing panic buttons, and even a bomb shelter. Towels, flannels, hand soaps and even toilet paper were said to have been 'embossed with the initials A & S' while, according to Lownie, the annual cost of guarding the house alone came to a whopping 300,000. And, in what was described as 'Aladdin's Cave', one room was 'piled from floor to ceiling with cardboard boxes' that held gifts from the royal couple's numerous trips, alongside some of their two-thousand wedding presents. The boxes contained 24 antique silver serving dishes costing between 1,500 and 8,000 each, 36 silver condiment sets, 1,000 crystal glasses and even 300 vases costing up to 600 each. From Royal Mansion to Uncertain Future After Prince Andrew and Fergie's high-profile divorce in 1996, the Prince eventually moved out of the purpose-built mansion, while the Duchess, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie remained living at Sunninghill until 2006. Now, the former Duchess is said to be in the midst of a 'housing crisis' after King Charles stripped Andrew of his royal titles and demanded that he vacate Windsor's 30-room Royal Lodge due to their friendship with Epstein. While Andrew is begrudgingly off to Marsh Farm in Sandringham, Fergie is understood to be making her own living arrangements. A friend previously told the Daily Mail: 'The honest truth is that she has nowhere to go and no one to go with. Her future is hanging in the balance,' while another source said: 'People don't want to be associated with her any more.' America's best - and worst - burgers have been revealed by food aficionados aiming to steer hungry consumers in the right direction. Analysts from the gastronomy-focused website Tasting Table reviewed Reddit commentary alongside their own firsthand experiences to rank 21 popular American burger chains. Coming in dead last was Jack in the Box, condemned for what reviewers described as a 'long litany of sins,' including greasy patties, soggy buns, high prices, and an overzealous hand with the mayonnaise. The chain, founded in 1951 in San Diego, California, was also criticized for its habit of discontinuing successful menu items, including the Sriracha Curly Fry Burger and the Hella-Peno Burger. Second from the bottom was White Castle, faulted for its 'unappetizingly soggy' buns - an issue blamed on excessively greasy patties. Given the chain's long-standing reputation as an unhealthy, low-quality option, the judging panel noted that the result 'should come as no surprise.' That said, they conceded that what White Castle lacks in quality, it compensates for in character, describing it as a 'pop culture icon sustained by its character rather than by the quality of its food.' This enduring cultural appeal, they said, prevents it from sinking to the very bottom of the rankings. Coming in dead last was Jack in the Box, condemned for what reviewers described as a 'long litany of sins,' including greasy patties, soggy buns, high prices, and an overzealous hand with the mayonnaise The chain, founded in 1951 in San Diego, California, was also criticized for its habit of discontinuing successful menu items, including the Sriracha Curly Fry Burger and the Hella-Peno Burger Just one rung above White Castle, at number 19, sat Burger King. Reviewers noted that 'more often than not, Burger King's burgers are dry and overcooked,' a key reason the chain languishes near the bottom of the list. Concerns about beef quality further dragged down its score. The judges pointed to a 2013 incident in which tests reportedly found Burger King patties contaminated with horse meat. They also highlighted an ongoing class-action lawsuit filed in 2023 alleging that the chain's Whoppers contain up to 35 percent less meat and are smaller than advertised. At the opposite end of the spectrum, In-N-Out Burger claimed the crown as America's best burger chain. Founded in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder in Baldwin Park, California, In-N-Out was praised for its 'cult following coupled with fast service, savvy marketing, and consistently high standards.' The judges added: 'We believe this place is the best because it's the real deal. Second from the bottom was White Castle, faulted for its 'unappetizingly soggy' buns - an issue blamed on excessively greasy patties Just one rung above White Castle, at number 19, sat Burger King. Reviewers noted that 'more often than not, Burger King's burgers are dry and overcooked,' a key reason the chain languishes near the bottom of the list Despite being one of the world's most recognizable burger brands, McDonald's placed just 17th 'It grinds its own fresh beef chuck and keeps things simple, ensuring a great customer experience across all locations.' Neil Saunders, an analyst at GlobalData, told Daily Mail he agreed with Tasting Table's verdict. 'A chain like In-N-Out is known for exacting standards when it comes to ingredient sourcing, including the use of fresh, not frozen, meat,' he explained. 'They're also very particular about how burgers are cooked and assembled. And just as importantly, the menu is simple. 'They do a few things and do them exceptionally well. Other chains try to do too much, which complicates processes and leads to slipping standards.' Second place went to Five Guys, which was lauded for its high-quality beef served fresh and never frozen. Judges described its burgers as 'among the tastiest of all the fast-food burger chains on this list,' noting that they 'don't even need sauces or fancy toppings to stand out.' Thanks to its careful attention to ingredients, Five Guys was also credited with a 'strong food safety track record.' Shake Shack took third place with a bronze burger medal. At the opposite end of the spectrum, In-N-Out Burger claimed the crown as America's best burger chain Founded in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder in Baldwin Park, California, In-N-Out was praised for its 'cult following coupled with fast service, savvy marketing, and consistently high standards' Second place went to Five Guys, which was lauded for its high-quality beef served fresh and never frozen What sets the chain apart, the judges said, is its use of Martin's Famous Potato Rolls - premium buns prized for their soft, slightly sweet flavor and resilient, pillowy texture that holds up well against grease. Shake Shack also scored points for restraint, avoiding excessive greasiness, and for its high-quality beef sourced from renowned New Jersey butcher Pat LaFrieda. Despite being one of the world's most recognizable burger brands, McDonald's placed just 17th. Explaining the low ranking, judges said: 'When it comes to quality, McDonald's is not your guy. 'The patties are flash-frozen and cooked weeks later, which may account for their occasionally bland, grayish appearance and the need to pile on condiments.' Wendy's fared only slightly better, landing at number 16. While once considered superior to McDonald's, Burger King, and other major chains during the 1980s and 1990s, many Reddit users complained that the brand has declined in recent years. One commenter lamented, 'They lost me when they moved away from their square patties and tried to go 'gourmet,' while another added, 'Their spicy chicken sandwich used to be top-tier. The last one I had was no better than a dull, processed white-meat patty.' Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition held to embrace Spring Festival Xinhua) 11:13, February 09, 2026 Visitors try Chinese tea at a Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 7, 2026. A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, which will fall on Feb. 17. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. It featured lion dance, arts performance, and an exhibition of Chinese and Cambodian culture and food. Visitors also enjoy various activities such as writing Chinese characters symbolizing luck and happiness, paper cutting, and a Chinese tea salon. Kou Somala, a 36-year-old Cambodian housewife, said the event has not only created a joyful atmosphere ahead of the Spring Festival, but also helped promote cultural relations and people-to-people exchange between Cambodia and China. "This is the first time I've taken my children to visit this exhibition, and we're really happy," she told Xinhua on Saturday. "Such a joint China-Cambodia event has enabled the peoples of the two countries to gain better insights into each other's culture," she added. Somala said the Spring Festival is very popular in Cambodia because many of the Cambodians have Chinese ancestry, and she is also a Cambodian of Chinese descent. Kun Narymorokot, a 20-year-old Cambodian university student, said this cultural exhibition would build a closer bond of friendship between Cambodia and China. "It's a venue where we can exchange our civilization and culture with each other," she told Xinhua. "It's believed that the Chinese New Year will ward off bad luck and bring in good luck and fortune, and it's also an occasion for family gatherings and for showing gratitude to ancestors," she added. Thong Mengdavid, deputy director at the China-ASEAN Studies Center of the Cambodia University of Technology and Science, said many Cambodian families traced their origins to Chinese ancestors, with some lineages dating back centuries. "As the relationship between Cambodia and China has continued to grow stronger, the Chinese New Year has become a shared celebration, symbolizing cultural harmony, mutual respect, and a deeper bond of fraternal friendship between the two peoples," he told Xinhua. Visitors pose for a photo with a lion dance troupe at a Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 7, 2026. A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua) A girl presents her written Chinese character at a Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 7, 2026. A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua) Artists play traditional Chinese instrument at a Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 7, 2026. A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua) A visitor writes Chinese characters at a Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 7, 2026. A Chinese-Cambodian cultural exhibition is being held in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Lasting from Friday to Sunday, the three-day cultural event was designed to provide revelers with an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Chinese New Year. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Shares of The Progressive Corporation (NYSE:PGR Get Free Report) have been assigned an average recommendation of Hold from the twenty-one brokerages that are covering the stock, MarketBeat.com reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have issued a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month target price among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $251.2941. PGR has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Zacks Research cut Progressive from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Monday, January 26th. Mizuho set a $240.00 price target on Progressive in a research report on Wednesday, January 14th. HSBC cut Progressive from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, January 16th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on shares of Progressive from $252.00 to $225.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a report on Friday, January 30th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group restated a hold rating on shares of Progressive in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Get Progressive alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on PGR Progressive Stock Down 2.5% Progressive Announces Dividend Shares of PGR stock opened at $202.41 on Friday. Progressive has a 12 month low of $197.92 and a 12 month high of $292.99. The stock has a market cap of $118.69 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.52, a P/E/G ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a current ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $217.20 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $229.21. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, January 8th. Investors of record on Friday, January 2nd were paid a dividend of $0.10 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, January 2nd. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.2%. Progressives payout ratio is 2.08%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other Progressive news, CIO Jonathan S. Bauer sold 3,105 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, January 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $204.35, for a total transaction of $634,506.75. Following the sale, the executive directly owned 26,249 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,363,983.15. This trade represents a 10.58% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO John P. Sauerland sold 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $228.48, for a total value of $1,142,400.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 223,024 shares in the company, valued at $50,956,523.52. The trade was a 2.19% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 13,788 shares of company stock worth $3,018,961. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Progressive Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Allstate Corp lifted its holdings in Progressive by 1,614.1% during the 3rd quarter. Allstate Corp now owns 21,598 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $5,334,000 after buying an additional 20,338 shares in the last quarter. New York Life Investment Management LLC increased its position in shares of Progressive by 1.4% during the second quarter. New York Life Investment Management LLC now owns 87,760 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $23,420,000 after acquiring an additional 1,192 shares during the period. Gateway Investment Advisers LLC raised its stake in shares of Progressive by 91.7% during the third quarter. Gateway Investment Advisers LLC now owns 11,710 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $2,892,000 after acquiring an additional 5,600 shares in the last quarter. Mather Group LLC. raised its stake in shares of Progressive by 40.6% during the third quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 16,840 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $4,159,000 after acquiring an additional 4,865 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Arkadios Wealth Advisors boosted its holdings in shares of Progressive by 471.3% in the third quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors now owns 22,496 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $5,556,000 after purchasing an additional 18,558 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 85.34% of the companys stock. Progressive Company Profile (Get Free Report) Progressive Corporation is a large U.S.-based property and casualty insurer that primarily underwrites personal auto insurance along with a broad suite of related products. Its offerings include coverage for private passenger automobiles, commercial auto fleets, motorcycles, boats and recreational vehicles, as well as homeowners, renters, umbrella and other specialty P&C products. Progressive also provides claims handling, risk management and related services to individual and commercial policyholders. The company distributes its products through a mix of direct channelsonline and by phoneand an extensive independent agent network. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Progressive Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Progressive and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Anglo American (OTCMKTS:NGLOY Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Buy from the six brokerages that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, two have issued a buy recommendation and two have assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $20.00. Separately, Citigroup upgraded shares of Anglo American from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Get Anglo American alerts: View Our Latest Report on NGLOY Anglo American Stock Up 2.5% About Anglo American Anglo American stock opened at $23.78 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59, a quick ratio of 1.65 and a current ratio of 2.11. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $21.26 and a 200 day moving average price of $18.63. Anglo American has a 12-month low of $12.70 and a 12-month high of $25.72. (Get Free Report) Anglo American plc is a multinational mining company headquartered in London that explores for, mines, processes and markets a broad range of commodities. Its principal activities cover the extraction and processing of bulk and specialty metals and minerals, including copper, iron ore, platinum group metals (PGMs), diamonds, nickel and both metallurgical and thermal coal. Anglo Americans operations span the full value chain from greenfield exploration and mine development through to mineral processing, smelting, refining and the sale of mined products to industrial and consumer markets worldwide. The company has a long history in the mining industry, having been established in the early 20th century and grown into one of the worlds major mining groups. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Anglo American Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Anglo American and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Reliance, Inc. (NYSE:RS Get Free Report) has been given an average recommendation of Moderate Buy by the six research firms that are presently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $317.25. Several analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on shares of Reliance from $284.00 to $287.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, November 14th. Zacks Research upgraded Reliance from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, February 3rd. KeyCorp restated an overweight rating on shares of Reliance in a research note on Wednesday, January 7th. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price objective on Reliance from $340.00 to $315.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on Reliance from $345.00 to $340.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, December 5th. Get Reliance alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Reliance Reliance Price Performance Insider Activity at Reliance RS opened at $353.71 on Wednesday. Reliance has a 1 year low of $250.07 and a 1 year high of $354.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a quick ratio of 2.08 and a current ratio of 4.43. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $306.42 and its 200 day simple moving average is $291.65. The stock has a market capitalization of $18.50 billion, a PE ratio of 25.86, a P/E/G ratio of 2.11 and a beta of 0.92. In related news, COO Stephen Paul Koch sold 3,066 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $283.56, for a total transaction of $869,394.96. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer directly owned 14,021 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,975,794.76. This represents a 17.94% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Karla R. Lewis sold 5,809 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $283.50, for a total value of $1,646,851.50. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 84,421 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $23,933,353.50. This represents a 6.44% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 0.35% of the stock is owned by insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Reliance Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. State Street Corp grew its stake in shares of Reliance by 6.8% during the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 2,597,755 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $729,528,000 after acquiring an additional 166,214 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners lifted its stake in shares of Reliance by 27.5% in the third quarter. Boston Partners now owns 2,247,603 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $631,224,000 after acquiring an additional 484,286 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in Reliance by 25.2% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,708,756 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $479,870,000 after purchasing an additional 343,598 shares during the last quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. grew its stake in Reliance by 4.8% during the 3rd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 1,142,551 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $320,863,000 after purchasing an additional 51,894 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Principal Financial Group Inc. grew its stake in Reliance by 4.2% during the 3rd quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 755,756 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $212,243,000 after purchasing an additional 30,765 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.26% of the companys stock. About Reliance (Get Free Report) Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co (NYSE: RS) is a leading metals service center company that distributes and processes a broad array of metal products. The company offers cut-to-length, shearing, blanking, sawing, bending, machining and value-added services for carbon and alloy steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, titanium and specialty metal alloys. Its products serve diverse end markets, including energy, infrastructure, general manufacturing, transportation, aerospace and defense. Founded in 1939 in Los Angeles, Reliance Steel & Aluminum has grown through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Reliance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Reliance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fortis (NYSE:FTS Get Free Report) and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (OTCMKTS:TNABY Get Free Report) are both utilities companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership and profitability. Valuation & Earnings This table compares Fortis and Tenaga Nasional Berhads revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Get Fortis alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Fortis $8.40 billion 3.26 $1.23 billion $2.40 22.52 Tenaga Nasional Berhad N/A N/A N/A $0.44 31.13 Dividends Fortis has higher revenue and earnings than Tenaga Nasional Berhad. Fortis is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Tenaga Nasional Berhad, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Fortis pays an annual dividend of $1.82 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.4%. Tenaga Nasional Berhad pays an annual dividend of $0.38 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.8%. Fortis pays out 75.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Tenaga Nasional Berhad pays out 86.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Fortis has increased its dividend for 5 consecutive years. Fortis is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth. Profitability This table compares Fortis and Tenaga Nasional Berhads net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Fortis 14.18% 7.05% 2.32% Tenaga Nasional Berhad N/A N/A N/A Risk & Volatility Fortis has a beta of 0.5, meaning that its share price is 50% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Tenaga Nasional Berhad has a beta of -0.44, meaning that its share price is 144% less volatile than the S&P 500. Institutional & Insider Ownership 57.8% of Fortis shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent ratings and target prices for Fortis and Tenaga Nasional Berhad, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Fortis 0 6 5 0 2.45 Tenaga Nasional Berhad 0 0 0 0 0.00 Fortis currently has a consensus target price of $72.00, indicating a potential upside of 33.23%. Given Fortis stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts clearly believe Fortis is more favorable than Tenaga Nasional Berhad. Summary Fortis beats Tenaga Nasional Berhad on 13 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks. About Fortis (Get Free Report) Fortis Inc. operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 447,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 103,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,408 megawatts (MW), including 68 MW of solar capacity and 250 MV of wind capacity. The company also sells wholesale electricity to other entities in the western United States; owns gas-fired and hydroelectric generating capacity totaling 65 MW; and distributes natural gas to approximately 1,087,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in British Columbia, Canada. In addition, it owns and operates the electricity distribution system that serves approximately 592,000 customers in southern and central Alberta; owns four hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 225 MW; and provides operation, maintenance, and management services to five hydroelectric generating facilities. Further, the company distributes electricity in the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador with an installed generating capacity of 145 MW; and on Prince Edward Island with a generating capacity of 90 MW. Additionally, it provides integrated electric utility service to approximately 69,000 customers in Ontario; approximately 275,000 customers in Newfoundland and Labrador; approximately 34,000 customers on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and approximately 17,000 customers on certain islands in Turks and Caicos. It also holds long-term contracted generation assets in Belize consisting of 3 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 51 MW; and the Aitken Creek natural gas storage facility. It also owns and operates approximately 90,500 circuit Kilometers (km) of distribution lines; and approximately 51,600 km of natural gas pipelines. Fortis Inc. was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in St. John's, Canada. About Tenaga Nasional Berhad (Get Free Report) Tenaga Nasional Berhad engages in the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity in Malaysia and internationally. The company operates and maintains thermal generation facilities and hydroelectric power generating schemes; and manages and operates the National Grid that is connected to Thailand's transmission system, as well as Singapore's transmission system at Senoko. It also supplies fuel and coal for power generation; generates, distributes, supplies, deals in, and sells various energy sources, as well as provides related technical services; develops district cooling systems; operates and maintains co-generation works; manufactures, sells, and repairs distribution, power, and earthing transformers; and develops, owns, and manages dry bulk terminals. In addition, the company provides turnkey contracting of transmission substations; repair and maintenance services to heavy industries and other related services; operation and maintenance services on telecommunication equipment and data centres; higher education, and telecommunication and IT infrastructure solution and services; research and development services in the areas of engineering, information technology, business, accountancy, and liberal studies; and training courses. Further, it offers insurance and reinsurance products, technical and laboratory, consultancy, and other services; manufactures and distributes power and general cables, and aluminum rods; operates an integrated district cooling systems for air conditioning systems of office buildings; assembles, manufactures, tests, reconditions, and distributes high and medium voltage switchgears, and control gears for transmission and distribution of electric power; and operates wind assets. It primarily serves commercial, industrial, and residential customers. The company was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Receive News & Ratings for Fortis Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fortis and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. IBC Advanced Alloys (OTCMKTS:IAALF Get Free Report) and Lithium Americas (NYSE:LAC Get Free Report) are both small-cap basic materials companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, valuation, profitability and risk. Profitability This table compares IBC Advanced Alloys and Lithium Americas net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get IBC Advanced Alloys alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets IBC Advanced Alloys -17.02% -95.16% -10.44% Lithium Americas N/A -8.50% -4.12% Volatility and Risk IBC Advanced Alloys has a beta of 1.27, suggesting that its share price is 27% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Lithium Americas has a beta of 1.55, suggesting that its share price is 55% more volatile than the S&P 500. Earnings and Valuation Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio IBC Advanced Alloys $17.76 million 0.94 -$3.41 million ($0.03) -4.84 Lithium Americas N/A N/A -$42.53 million ($1.05) -4.45 This table compares IBC Advanced Alloys and Lithium Americass revenue, earnings per share and valuation. IBC Advanced Alloys has higher revenue and earnings than Lithium Americas. IBC Advanced Alloys is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Lithium Americas, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for IBC Advanced Alloys and Lithium Americas, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score IBC Advanced Alloys 0 0 0 0 0.00 Lithium Americas 1 9 3 0 2.15 Lithium Americas has a consensus price target of $5.81, indicating a potential upside of 24.46%. Given Lithium Americas stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Lithium Americas is more favorable than IBC Advanced Alloys. Summary Lithium Americas beats IBC Advanced Alloys on 8 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks. About IBC Advanced Alloys (Get Free Report) IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. develops, produces, and sells specialty alloy products in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Copper Alloys and Engineered Materials segments. It offers various copper alloys as castings and forgings, such as beryllium copper, chrome copper, oxygen-free high conductivity copper, and aluminum bronze in the form of plates, blocks, rounds, discs, bars, rings, tubes, rods, and other custom forgings, as well as specialty copper alloy forgings for plastic mold tooling and resistance welding applications. The company also provides beryllium-aluminum castings, beryllium-aluminum alloys, beryllium-copper alloys, high-strength beryllium-copper casting alloys, high-conductivity beryllium-copper casting alloys, and beryllium-nickel casting alloys. In addition, it manufactures Thermal-Mold Super, a beryllium-free mold alloy of copper-nickel-silicon-chrome, as well as provides tolling services and consulting. It serves automotive, defense, resistance welding, electronics, industrial equipment, injection molding, foundry, aerospace, and oil and gas industries. The company was formerly known as International Beryllium Corporation and changed its name to IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. in March 2009. IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. is headquartered in Franklin, Indiana. About Lithium Americas (Get Free Report) Lithium Americas Corp. engages in the exploration and development of lithium properties in the United States and Canada. It holds a 100% interest in the Thacker Pass project located in northern Nevada, as well as investments in exploration properties in the United States and Canada. Lithium Americas Corp. was incorporated in 2023 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Receive News & Ratings for IBC Advanced Alloys Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for IBC Advanced Alloys and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC Get Free Report) Director Jacques Tapiero sold 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $67.09, for a total transaction of $335,450.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 31,596 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,119,775.64. This represents a 13.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Jacques Tapiero also recently made the following trade(s): Get McCormick & Company Incorporated alerts: On Tuesday, February 3rd, Jacques Tapiero sold 5,000 shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $63.85, for a total value of $319,250.00. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Stock Performance NYSE MKC traded up $0.46 on Monday, reaching $67.88. The stock had a trading volume of 2,417,798 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,526,592. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 0.70 and a quick ratio of 0.28. The company has a market cap of $18.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.17, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.31 and a beta of 0.61. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $66.04 and a two-hundred day moving average of $67.18. McCormick & Company, Incorporated has a 1-year low of $59.62 and a 1-year high of $86.24. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Increases Dividend McCormick & Company, Incorporated ( NYSE:MKC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, January 22nd. The company reported $0.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.87 by ($0.01). McCormick & Company, Incorporated had a net margin of 11.54% and a return on equity of 14.27%. The business had revenue of $1.85 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.84 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.80 EPS. The companys revenue was up 2.9% compared to the same quarter last year. McCormick & Company, Incorporated has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.050-3.130 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that McCormick & Company, Incorporated will post 3.07 EPS for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, January 12th. Investors of record on Monday, December 29th were given a dividend of $0.48 per share. This is a positive change from McCormick & Company, Incorporateds previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. This represents a $1.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, December 29th. McCormick & Company, Incorporateds dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 65.53%. Analysts Set New Price Targets MKC has been the subject of several research reports. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated from $78.00 to $79.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 13th. Barclays decreased their target price on shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated from $72.00 to $67.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, January 26th. UBS Group dropped their price objective on McCormick & Company, Incorporated from $70.00 to $67.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 23rd. Sanford C. Bernstein reissued an outperform rating and set a $87.00 target price on shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated in a research note on Thursday, December 11th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised McCormick & Company, Incorporated from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $75.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Monday, December 15th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $73.30. Get Our Latest Research Report on McCormick & Company, Incorporated Institutional Investors Weigh In On McCormick & Company, Incorporated A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MKC. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust purchased a new position in shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $25,000. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new position in McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the second quarter worth $27,000. Heartwood Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the third quarter worth $28,000. GoalVest Advisory LLC bought a new position in McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, Curio Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated by 39,900.0% during the 2nd quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 400 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 399 shares during the last quarter. 79.74% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Company Profile (Get Free Report) McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE: MKC) is a global leader in spices, seasonings and flavor solutions. Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, the company traces its origins to the late 19th century and has grown into a major manufacturer and marketer of branded and privatelabel flavor products for consumer, industrial and foodservice markets. McCormicks product portfolio includes pure spices and herbs, blended seasonings, marinades, rubs, sauces, extracts and specialty flavorings, along with ingredient systems and custom flavor development for manufacturers and foodservice operators. See Also Receive News & Ratings for McCormick & Company Incorporated Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McCormick & Company Incorporated and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kyndryl (NYSE:KD Get Free Report) and AMTD Digital (NYSE:HKD Get Free Report) are both business services companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, risk, dividends, profitability, analyst recommendations, earnings and valuation. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Kyndryl and AMTD Digitals revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Get Kyndryl alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Kyndryl $15.06 billion 0.36 $251.00 million $1.69 13.92 AMTD Digital $20.44 million 17.66 N/A N/A N/A Profitability Kyndryl has higher revenue and earnings than AMTD Digital. This table compares Kyndryl and AMTD Digitals net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Kyndryl 2.71% 25.76% 3.12% AMTD Digital N/A N/A N/A Institutional & Insider Ownership 71.5% of Kyndryl shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 5.8% of AMTD Digital shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.9% of Kyndryl shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Volatility & Risk Kyndryl has a beta of 1.85, suggesting that its stock price is 85% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, AMTD Digital has a beta of 2.2, suggesting that its stock price is 120% more volatile than the S&P 500. Analyst Ratings This is a summary of recent ratings for Kyndryl and AMTD Digital, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Kyndryl 0 3 5 0 2.63 AMTD Digital 0 0 0 0 0.00 Kyndryl currently has a consensus price target of $37.60, indicating a potential upside of 59.80%. Given Kyndryls stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, research analysts plainly believe Kyndryl is more favorable than AMTD Digital. Summary Kyndryl beats AMTD Digital on 9 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks. About Kyndryl (Get Free Report) Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. operates as a technology services company and IT infrastructure services provider worldwide. The company offers cloud services; core enterprise and zCloud services; application, data, and artificial intelligence services; digital workplace services; security and resiliency services; and network services and edge services. It serves financial, communications, retail and travel, and automotive industries. The company was incorporated in 2020 and is headquartered in New York, New York. About AMTD Digital (Get Free Report) AMTD Digital Inc., through its subsidiaries, designs and develops a digital platform to provide financial, media, content and marketing, and investment solutions in Asia. The company operates through Digital Solutions ServicesFinancial Services, Digital Solutions ServicesNon Financial Services, Digital Media, Content, and Marketing Services, and Digital Investments segments. It offers deposit, personal loan, credit card, fund transfer, cross border remittance, insurance, and other payment services. In addition, the company operates SpiderNet ecosystem, a platform to enhance their investor communication, investor relations, and corporate communication to enhance their valuation. Further, it offers movies, podcasts, webinars, and videos through online media platforms. Additionally, the company invests in hotel related activities. AMTD Digital Inc. was incorporated in 2019 and is based in Paris, France. AMTD Digital Inc. operates as a subsidiary of AMTD IDEA Group. Receive News & Ratings for Kyndryl Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kyndryl and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Sweetgreen, Inc. (NYSE:SG Get Free Report) were down 6.1% during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $5.74 and last traded at $5.7080. Approximately 791,060 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 81% from the average daily volume of 4,184,569 shares. The stock had previously closed at $6.08. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In SG has been the topic of several research reports. William Blair restated a market perform rating on shares of Sweetgreen in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Oppenheimer set a $10.00 price objective on Sweetgreen in a report on Friday, November 7th. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $8.00 target price on shares of Sweetgreen in a research note on Tuesday, December 9th. Sanford C. Bernstein set a $7.00 target price on shares of Sweetgreen in a research report on Wednesday, January 7th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Sweetgreen from $6.00 to $8.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 20th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $10.83. Get Sweetgreen alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on Sweetgreen Sweetgreen Trading Down 7.1% The firms fifty day simple moving average is $6.93 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $7.91. The company has a market capitalization of $668.79 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.82 and a beta of 1.92. Sweetgreen (NYSE:SG Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported ($0.31) EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.18) by ($0.13). The firm had revenue of $172.39 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $179.29 million. Sweetgreen had a negative net margin of 16.55% and a negative return on equity of 25.67%. The firms quarterly revenue was down .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted ($0.18) EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Sweetgreen, Inc. will post -0.74 EPS for the current fiscal year. Insider Transactions at Sweetgreen In related news, CEO Jonathan Neman purchased 179,800 shares of Sweetgreen stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $5.56 per share, with a total value of $999,688.00. Following the purchase, the chief executive officer owned 179,800 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $999,688. The trade was a increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Nicolas Jammet acquired 18,115 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $5.51 per share, with a total value of $99,813.65. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 18,115 shares in the company, valued at $99,813.65. This trade represents a increase in their position. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. 19.78% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Trading of Sweetgreen Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc purchased a new position in Sweetgreen in the second quarter valued at $30,000. Larson Financial Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Sweetgreen by 165.8% in the 3rd quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 3,766 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 2,349 shares during the period. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Sweetgreen by 98.2% during the second quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,129 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after buying an additional 1,055 shares in the last quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC increased its stake in shares of Sweetgreen by 1,150.0% during the third quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 5,000 shares of the companys stock worth $40,000 after buying an additional 4,600 shares during the period. Finally, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ raised its holdings in Sweetgreen by 312.3% in the second quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ now owns 2,808 shares of the companys stock valued at $42,000 after acquiring an additional 2,127 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.75% of the companys stock. About Sweetgreen (Get Free Report) Sweetgreen, Inc is a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in salads, grain bowls and warm bowls that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Since its founding in 2007 by Jonathan Neman, Nicolas Jammet and Nathaniel Ru, Sweetgreen has focused on sustainable agriculture, working with regional farmers across the United States to provide seasonal produce and promote environmentally responsible sourcing practices. The companys menu features a variety of plant-forward options, including custom-build salads, chef-curated bowls and limited-time offerings that reflect changing harvests. Sweetgreen operates a technology-driven service model that combines in-store experiences with digital ordering through its mobile app and website. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Sweetgreen Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sweetgreen and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Prince Andrew is to be relocated to a special destination, the palace has disclosed today. A Buckingham Palace spokesman has revealed that after much discussion, the disgraced Prince Andrew will be exiled to an island near the US Virgin Islands called Little Saint Jamesotherwise known as ta da!!! EPSTEIN ISLAND! The King has made clear Randy Andy has brought great misfortune upon himself and sullied the name of the royal house; well, His Majesty has taken it upon the crown to procure the fateful island itself for this very reason. The RAF will transport Andrew from RAF Marham in Norfolk next week. He will only be allowed to take one suitcase of belongings and three servants. Epstein Island has been abandoned for several years since the Epstein saga, but some of the buildings are still in relatively good shape. According to the government, a contingent of armed guards will make sure that Andrew behaves himself, and the island will be sealed off from the rest of the world. There will be guard towers everywhere as well as 24/7 CCTV surveillance of Andrews activities. On the island, there will be no young girls, only goats. Andrew is free to do as he pleases with the goats. For students looking to become fisheries (or resource) managers, conservation specialists, policy advisors, or fisheries analysts, a new course-based masters program at Dalhousie promises the technical skills and professional connections needed for success in a complex, challenging field. All in less than a year and a half. The Master of Fisheries Science (MFSc) is designed to give students more exposure to the real world, says Maxine Westhead, director of Dals affiliate Marine Affairs Program. That means connecting them with fisheries managers and monitors and the professionals analyzing biological, ecological, and fishery-dependent data to assess stock status, evaluate management options, and support sustainable fisheries. Its also meaningful for them to go out into the field to see how data are actually collected on a vessel thats rolling around in the ocean, she says. First-year Medicine student Aaliyah Arab-Smith remembers her interest in health care beginning at age five, when her grandmother passed away. I didn't understand disease at the time, but I understood loss, said Arab-Smith, speaking at Dalhousies African Heritage Month flagship event this Wednesday (Feb. 4). As I grew older, I learned that the type of cancer my grandmother had was largely preventable. I came to realize that medicine is not just about treating disease, but early detection, holistic wellness, and understanding the social circumstances that shape our health long before someone ever becomes a patient. I turned that realization into purpose. Aaliyah Arab-Smith co-delivers the keynote address. Members of the Dal community and beyond filled seats on the floor and in the rafters of the Dalhousie Arts Centres Sculpture Court to mark the start of African Heritage Month with food, music, reflection, and jubilation. In speaking to her own experiences, Arab-Smith helped illuminate the theme of this years Dalhousie celebrations: Creative Advocacy: Uplifting Black Health, Art, and Community Action. It reminds us that advocacy is not [just] about policy, said Said Msabaha, co-director of the Office of Community Engagement for the Faculty of Medicine and who joined Arab-Smith as a fellow keynote speaker at the event. It's about imagination, culture and connection. Creativity has always been the root of survival and progress from the vibrant storytelling traditions of our elders to the powerful murals, music, the echoes within our hallways and our living rooms. He said the power of presence and visibility is abundantly clear to him in his role as manager for Dalhousies Promoting Leadership in Health for African Nova Scotians (PLANS) Program, which works to increase the representation of African Nova Scotians in the health professions. Every time a Black physician mentors a Black student, every time a researcher centers African Nova Scotian experiences in their work, we are practicing creating advocacy. Said Msabaha co-delivers the keynote address. A celebratory program The event was hosted by Barb Hamilton-Hinch (assistant vice-provost equity and inclusion and professor in the Faculty of Health) and Bahaiyyih Pride (Presidents Office). It featured infectious drumming from drum group Drummers From Home, a stirring libation ceremony from Wayn Hamilton, an inspiring performance of Lift Every Voice and Sing (the Black national anthem) by Kings student and former youth poet laureate for Halifax Damini Awoyiga, and the presentation of Dalhousies African Heritage Month Awards honouring exceptional individuals of African descent whove made significant contributions to Dalhousie and to their communities. Read also: Meet the amazing recipients of this years Dalhousie African Heritage Month Awards The event also spotlighted the new Dalhousie Art Gallery exhibition, It's About Time: Dancing Black in Canada 1900-1970 and Now, with gallery director Pamela Edmonds speaking about the exhibits unique collaboration between archival material and contemporary Nova Scotian artists. Read also: Where are we allowed to dance?: New Dalhousie Art Gallery exhibition explores history of "dancing Black" in Canada Wanda Costen, Dalhousie provost and vice-president academic, spoke of African Heritage Month as a special time of the year, and in the life of the university: where we take a moment to recognize the contributions of people from the motherland, from the continent because that's where we all came from. And to create space for us, to bring our pain and our joy. She added that it reflects the important values universities like Dalhousie bring to the world. I talk often about what it means to be a civic university. To me, that means to bring all of who we are, inviting people from all backgrounds in all cultures, to come and learn here, to learn what it means to have a democracy... about honouring the whole person and creating space for people to be fully who they are. AdvisorShares Investments LLC purchased a new position in shares of Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report) in the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 1,050 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $501,000. Get Caterpillar alerts: Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Caterpillar in the 2nd quarter worth $2,165,899,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its stake in Caterpillar by 1,851.8% in the third quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,830,414 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $873,382,000 after buying an additional 1,736,631 shares during the period. Marshall Wace LLP boosted its holdings in Caterpillar by 425.2% during the second quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 761,800 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $295,738,000 after buying an additional 616,739 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its position in shares of Caterpillar by 20.7% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,553,930 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,695,757,000 after buying an additional 609,023 shares during the period. Finally, Voya Investment Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Caterpillar by 36.9% in the 3rd quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 1,777,589 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $848,177,000 after acquiring an additional 478,972 shares during the last quarter. 70.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. More Caterpillar News Here are the key news stories impacting Caterpillar this week: Positive Sentiment: Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Zacks: Post Q4 analysis Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Positive Sentiment: AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Yahoo: AI data centers AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Positive Sentiment: Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. MarketScreener: HSBC PT raise Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. Neutral Sentiment: Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. MSN: Dow soars Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. Neutral Sentiment: Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. MarketBeat: Valuation piece Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. Negative Sentiment: Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. InsiderTrades: Insider sales Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. Negative Sentiment: Analyst caution on pace of growth CFRA and others warn that while financials are strong, underlying growth may not be fast enough to justify some of the recent extreme shareprice moves; that comment tempers the rally. YouTube: CFRA caution Insider Activity at Caterpillar Caterpillar Trading Up 7.1% In other news, insider Anthony D. Fassino sold 10,671 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $680.45, for a total transaction of $7,261,081.95. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 41,151 shares of the companys stock, valued at $28,001,197.95. This trade represents a 20.59% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . Also, insider Denise C. Johnson sold 39,138 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $681.08, for a total transaction of $26,656,109.04. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 43,350 shares in the company, valued at approximately $29,524,818. This represents a 47.45% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing . Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 112,563 shares of company stock worth $73,657,655. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. CAT opened at $726.38 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $339.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 38.60, a P/E/G ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.58. The company has a current ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44. Caterpillar Inc. has a 12 month low of $267.30 and a 12 month high of $727.40. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $617.15 and its 200 day simple moving average is $530.49. Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The industrial products company reported $5.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.67 by $0.49. The firm had revenue of $19.13 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.81 billion. Caterpillar had a return on equity of 45.76% and a net margin of 13.14%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 17.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $5.14 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Caterpillar Inc. will post 19.86 EPS for the current fiscal year. Caterpillar Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 19th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, January 20th will be paid a $1.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, January 20th. This represents a $6.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. Caterpillars payout ratio is presently 32.09%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts recently weighed in on CAT shares. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on shares of Caterpillar from $400.00 to $425.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 3rd. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Caterpillar from $610.00 to $625.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, January 30th. Rothschild & Co Redburn boosted their price target on shares of Caterpillar from $650.00 to $700.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. Robert W. Baird set a $805.00 price objective on Caterpillar in a research note on Friday, January 30th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lifted their target price on Caterpillar from $700.00 to $750.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, January 27th. Sixteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $690.90. View Our Latest Stock Report on Caterpillar About Caterpillar (Free Report) Caterpillar Inc is a global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and locomotives. The companys product portfolio includes earthmoving machines such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and offhighway trucks, as well as a range of power generation products including generator sets and power systems for industrial and commercial use. Caterpillar serves customers across heavy construction, mining, energy, transportation and related industries with both equipment and integrated technology solutions. In addition to manufacturing, Caterpillar provides a broad range of aftermarket parts and support services, including maintenance, repair, remanufacturing and fleet management tools. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CAT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Caterpillar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Caterpillar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE:BLCO Get Free Report) has earned a consensus recommendation of Hold from the fifteen ratings firms that are covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, nine have assigned a hold recommendation and four have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price objective among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $17.4167. Get Bausch + Lomb alerts: A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Raymond James Financial reissued an outperform rating and set a $19.00 price objective (up from $18.00) on shares of Bausch + Lomb in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Bausch + Lomb from $13.00 to $16.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Bausch + Lomb in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. Evercore set a $18.00 price objective on shares of Bausch + Lomb and gave the company an in-line rating in a research note on Monday, January 5th. Finally, Citigroup raised shares of Bausch + Lomb from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $20.00 target price for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 11th. Get Our Latest Analysis on BLCO Bausch + Lomb Stock Performance Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bausch + Lomb NYSE:BLCO opened at $17.04 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 1.51, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76. The company has a market capitalization of $6.04 billion, a P/E ratio of -19.58, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 0.61. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $16.97 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $15.65. Bausch + Lomb has a twelve month low of $10.45 and a twelve month high of $17.86. Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BLCO. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. boosted its stake in Bausch + Lomb by 729.3% in the 2nd quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 2,322 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 2,042 shares during the last quarter. Blue Trust Inc. raised its position in shares of Bausch + Lomb by 58.5% in the 2nd quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 4,502 shares of the companys stock worth $59,000 after buying an additional 1,662 shares during the period. FNY Investment Advisers LLC boosted its holdings in Bausch + Lomb by 93.8% in the second quarter. FNY Investment Advisers LLC now owns 6,200 shares of the companys stock valued at $80,000 after acquiring an additional 3,000 shares during the last quarter. Gruss & Co. LLC purchased a new stake in Bausch + Lomb during the second quarter valued at about $130,000. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp increased its stake in Bausch + Lomb by 55.3% during the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 9,112 shares of the companys stock worth $132,000 after acquiring an additional 3,246 shares during the last quarter. 11.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About Bausch + Lomb (Get Free Report) Bausch + Lomb Corporation operates as an eye health company in the United States, Puerto Rico, China, France, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia, Spain, Italy, Mexico, Poland, South Korea, and internationally. It operates in three segments: Vision Care, Pharmaceuticals, and Surgical. The Vision Care segment provides contact lens that covers the spectrum of wearing modalities, including daily disposable and frequently replaced contact lenses; and contact lens care products comprising over-the-counter eye drops, eye vitamins, and mineral supplements that address various conditions, such as eye allergies, conjunctivitis, dry eye, and redness relief. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Bausch + Lomb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bausch + Lomb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bessemer Group Inc. cut its holdings in Franco-Nevada Corporation (NYSE:FNV Free Report) (TSE:FNV) by 22.7% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 10,084 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 2,960 shares during the period. Bessemer Group Inc.s holdings in Franco-Nevada were worth $2,242,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get Franco-Nevada alerts: A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the business. AQR Capital Management LLC bought a new position in Franco-Nevada in the 1st quarter worth $241,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC increased its position in Franco-Nevada by 16.7% in the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 6,585 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,038,000 after buying an additional 943 shares in the last quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Franco-Nevada by 118.3% in the first quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC now owns 9,286 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,460,000 after buying an additional 5,032 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Franco-Nevada by 800.0% during the 1st quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 2,700 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $424,000 after buying an additional 2,400 shares in the last quarter. Finally, US Bancorp DE lifted its position in shares of Franco-Nevada by 0.7% during the 2nd quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 22,774 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $3,733,000 after buying an additional 148 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 77.06% of the companys stock. Franco-Nevada Stock Performance Shares of NYSE FNV opened at $232.51 on Monday. The firms fifty day moving average is $224.74 and its two-hundred day moving average is $204.20. Franco-Nevada Corporation has a 52-week low of $137.05 and a 52-week high of $273.55. The company has a market cap of $44.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 48.74, a P/E/G ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 0.47. Franco-Nevada Increases Dividend Analyst Ratings Changes The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 26th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.44 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 12th. This is a boost from Franco-Nevadas previous quarterly dividend of $0.38. This represents a $1.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.8%. Franco-Nevadas dividend payout ratio is currently 31.87%. A number of equities research analysts have commented on FNV shares. HC Wainwright raised their target price on shares of Franco-Nevada from $200.00 to $210.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Canaccord Genuity Group cut shares of Franco-Nevada from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, January 23rd. Scotiabank lifted their target price on shares of Franco-Nevada from $225.00 to $283.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, January 26th. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Franco-Nevada in a report on Wednesday. Finally, UBS Group reissued a buy rating and set a $310.00 price target on shares of Franco-Nevada in a report on Friday, January 30th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $245.00. Read Our Latest Report on Franco-Nevada About Franco-Nevada (Free Report) Franco-Nevada Corporation is a Toronto-based royalty and streaming company that specializes in securing and managing long-term interests in mining properties. The firm focuses primarily on precious metals, particularly gold, while also holding interests related to silver, copper, platinum-group metals and select base metals. Rather than operating mines directly, Franco-Nevada acquires royalty and streaming agreements that entitle it to a percentage of production or revenue from producing and developing assets in exchange for upfront or staged financing. The companys business model centers on providing capital to mining companies in return for a sustained share of production or metal revenue, which can reduce exposure to operating and capital cost risks typical of mine operators. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FNV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Franco-Nevada Corporation (NYSE:FNV Free Report) (TSE:FNV). Receive News & Ratings for Franco-Nevada Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Franco-Nevada and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Blume Capital Management Inc. lessened its stake in Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) by 8.5% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 230,869 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 21,510 shares during the period. Bank of America comprises about 2.3% of Blume Capital Management Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 14th largest position. Blume Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Bank of America were worth $11,911,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Get Bank of America alerts: A number of other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BAC. Quaker Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in Bank of America by 246.5% in the second quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 523 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 880 shares in the last quarter. Steph & Co. lifted its holdings in Bank of America by 224.3% during the 3rd quarter. Steph & Co. now owns 548 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 379 shares during the last quarter. CGC Financial Services LLC grew its position in shares of Bank of America by 585.4% in the 2nd quarter. CGC Financial Services LLC now owns 610 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 521 shares in the last quarter. Marquette Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Bank of America in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Finally, Collier Financial bought a new stake in shares of Bank of America in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $30,000. 70.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Trending Headlines about Bank of America Here are the key news stories impacting Bank of America this week: Bank of America Stock Performance Shares of NYSE BAC opened at $56.54 on Monday. Bank of America Corporation has a 12-month low of $33.06 and a 12-month high of $57.55. The company has a market cap of $412.88 billion, a PE ratio of 14.76, a P/E/G ratio of 1.38 and a beta of 1.29. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $54.38 and a 200-day simple moving average of $51.86. The company has a current ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.15. Bank of America (NYSE:BAC Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 14th. The financial services provider reported $0.98 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.96 by $0.02. Bank of America had a return on equity of 11.07% and a net margin of 16.23%.The firm had revenue of $4.53 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $27.73 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.82 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 12.3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Bank of America Corporation will post 3.7 EPS for the current year. Bank of America Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 27th. Investors of record on Friday, March 6th will be given a $0.28 dividend. This represents a $1.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, March 6th. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is currently 29.24%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have commented on BAC shares. Ameriprise Financial raised shares of Bank of America to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Bank of America from $58.00 to $62.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. CICC Research started coverage on shares of Bank of America in a research note on Wednesday, January 14th. They set an outperform rating and a $62.00 price objective on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on shares of Bank of America from $65.00 to $67.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, January 26th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Bank of America from $68.00 to $64.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, January 15th. Twenty-two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $60.30. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on BAC Bank of America Profile (Free Report) Bank of America Corporation is a multinational financial services company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. It provides a broad array of banking, investment, asset management and related financial and risk management products and services to individual consumers, small- and middle-market businesses, large corporations, governments and institutional investors. The firm operates through consumer banking, global wealth and investment management, global banking and markets businesses, offering capabilities across lending, deposits, payments, advisory and capital markets. Its consumer-facing offerings include checking and savings accounts, mortgages, home equity lending, auto loans, credit cards and small business banking, supported by a nationwide branch network and digital channels. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BAC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MA Private Wealth grew its stake in iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU Free Report) by 10.3% during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 157,758 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 14,705 shares during the quarter. iShares Gold Trust makes up about 1.9% of MA Private Wealths holdings, making the stock its 17th largest position. MA Private Wealths holdings in iShares Gold Trust were worth $11,480,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Get iShares Gold Trust alerts: Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 47.7% during the 3rd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 20,520,705 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,493,292,000 after buying an additional 6,623,876 shares in the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. increased its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 809.1% during the second quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 5,108,818 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $318,586,000 after acquiring an additional 4,546,835 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in iShares Gold Trust by 67.5% during the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 10,919,614 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $680,947,000 after acquiring an additional 4,398,605 shares during the period. Prudential Financial Inc. boosted its position in iShares Gold Trust by 2,152.7% in the second quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 3,494,106 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $217,892,000 after purchasing an additional 3,339,000 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Packer & Co Ltd bought a new position in iShares Gold Trust in the 3rd quarter valued at $156,463,000. 59.67% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. More iShares Gold Trust News Here are the key news stories impacting iShares Gold Trust this week: iShares Gold Trust Price Performance iShares Gold Trust Company Profile Shares of iShares Gold Trust stock opened at $93.24 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $78.73 billion, a PE ratio of 5.53 and a beta of 0.09. iShares Gold Trust has a 1 year low of $53.44 and a 1 year high of $104.40. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $85.69 and a 200-day moving average price of $76.14. (Free Report) iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust. The sponsor of the Trust is iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC (the Sponsor), which is an indirect subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc The trustee of the Trust is The Bank of New York Mellon (the Trustee) and the custodian of the Trust is JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., London branch (the Custodian). Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares Gold Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Gold Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MB Generational Wealth LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWM Free Report) in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund bought 3,578 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $866,000. iShares Russell 2000 ETF accounts for about 0.6% of MB Generational Wealth LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 27th biggest holding. Get iShares Russell 2000 ETF alerts: A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. SHEPHERD WEALTH MANAGEMENT Ltd LIABILITY Co acquired a new position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at $12,710,000. Breakwater Capital Group boosted its holdings in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 8.7% in the third quarter. Breakwater Capital Group now owns 3,702 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $896,000 after acquiring an additional 296 shares during the last quarter. Aegis Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 267.6% in the third quarter. Aegis Wealth Management LLC now owns 16,908 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $4,091,000 after acquiring an additional 12,308 shares during the last quarter. Gables Capital Management Inc. grew its position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 4.0% during the third quarter. Gables Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,103 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $509,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares during the period. Finally, Cardinal Point Capital Management ULC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 39.2% during the third quarter. Cardinal Point Capital Management ULC now owns 3,174 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $770,000 after acquiring an additional 894 shares during the last quarter. iShares Russell 2000 ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA IWM opened at $265.02 on Monday. iShares Russell 2000 ETF has a 1-year low of $171.73 and a 1-year high of $271.60. The firm has a market capitalization of $75.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.69 and a beta of 1.13. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $256.28 and its 200-day simple moving average is $244.00. About iShares Russell 2000 ETF iShares Russell 2000 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 2000 Index (the Index). The Index is a float-adjusted capitalization weighted index that measures the performance of the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market and includes securities issued by the approximately 2,000 smallest issuers in the Russell 3000 Index. The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. See Also Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 2000 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 2000 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. cut its position in Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report) by 10.0% during the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 55,116 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 6,113 shares during the quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Caterpillar were worth $26,299,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Get Caterpillar alerts: Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Norges Bank acquired a new position in shares of Caterpillar during the second quarter worth approximately $2,165,899,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its stake in Caterpillar by 1,851.8% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,830,414 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $873,382,000 after purchasing an additional 1,736,631 shares during the last quarter. Marshall Wace LLP boosted its holdings in Caterpillar by 425.2% in the 2nd quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 761,800 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $295,738,000 after purchasing an additional 616,739 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its position in Caterpillar by 20.7% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,553,930 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,695,757,000 after purchasing an additional 609,023 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Voya Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Caterpillar by 36.9% during the 3rd quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 1,777,589 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $848,177,000 after purchasing an additional 478,972 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.98% of the companys stock. Caterpillar Stock Up 7.1% Shares of NYSE:CAT opened at $726.38 on Monday. The companys fifty day moving average is $617.15 and its 200-day moving average is $530.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a current ratio of 1.44. Caterpillar Inc. has a 52 week low of $267.30 and a 52 week high of $727.40. The company has a market capitalization of $339.93 billion, a PE ratio of 38.60, a P/E/G ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.58. Caterpillar Dividend Announcement Caterpillar ( NYSE:CAT Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The industrial products company reported $5.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.67 by $0.49. The firm had revenue of $19.13 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.81 billion. Caterpillar had a net margin of 13.14% and a return on equity of 45.76%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 17.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $5.14 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Caterpillar Inc. will post 19.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 19th. Investors of record on Tuesday, January 20th will be given a dividend of $1.51 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, January 20th. This represents a $6.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.8%. Caterpillars dividend payout ratio is 32.09%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently weighed in on CAT. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their target price on Caterpillar from $587.00 to $658.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, January 30th. Oppenheimer lifted their price objective on Caterpillar from $700.00 to $729.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Caterpillar from $740.00 to $765.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 30th. Evercore lifted their price target on shares of Caterpillar from $476.00 to $630.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, November 17th. Finally, CICC Research assumed coverage on shares of Caterpillar in a research note on Friday. They issued an outperform rating for the company. Sixteen analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $690.90. View Our Latest Report on CAT Caterpillar News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting Caterpillar this week: Positive Sentiment: Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Zacks: Post Q4 analysis Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Positive Sentiment: AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Yahoo: AI data centers AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Positive Sentiment: Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. MarketScreener: HSBC PT raise Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. Neutral Sentiment: Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. MSN: Dow soars Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. Neutral Sentiment: Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. MarketBeat: Valuation piece Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. Negative Sentiment: Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. InsiderTrades: Insider sales Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. Negative Sentiment: Analyst caution on pace of growth CFRA and others warn that while financials are strong, underlying growth may not be fast enough to justify some of the recent extreme shareprice moves; that comment tempers the rally. YouTube: CFRA caution Insider Activity In other Caterpillar news, insider Anthony D. Fassino sold 10,671 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $680.45, for a total value of $7,261,081.95. Following the transaction, the insider owned 41,151 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $28,001,197.95. The trade was a 20.59% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Lange Bob De sold 16,070 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $704.97, for a total value of $11,328,867.90. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 79,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $56,364,466.41. This trade represents a 16.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last three months, insiders sold 112,563 shares of company stock worth $73,657,655. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. About Caterpillar (Free Report) Caterpillar Inc is a global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and locomotives. The companys product portfolio includes earthmoving machines such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and offhighway trucks, as well as a range of power generation products including generator sets and power systems for industrial and commercial use. Caterpillar serves customers across heavy construction, mining, energy, transportation and related industries with both equipment and integrated technology solutions. In addition to manufacturing, Caterpillar provides a broad range of aftermarket parts and support services, including maintenance, repair, remanufacturing and fleet management tools. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CAT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Caterpillar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Caterpillar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE:PRU Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Hold from the eleven research firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Ten investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and one has given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $118.4444. Get Prudential Financial alerts: Several analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Prudential Financial from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research note on Monday, January 12th. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on shares of Prudential Financial from $110.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on shares of Prudential Financial from $133.00 to $127.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. UBS Group upped their price target on Prudential Financial from $111.00 to $116.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, January 8th. Finally, Evercore cut their price objective on Prudential Financial from $122.00 to $110.00 and set an in-line rating for the company in a research report on Thursday. View Our Latest Report on PRU Prudential Financial Price Performance NYSE PRU opened at $102.88 on Monday. Prudential Financial has a 12-month low of $90.38 and a 12-month high of $119.76. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $112.44 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $107.43. The company has a current ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $36.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.29, a P/E/G ratio of 1.17 and a beta of 0.97. Prudential Financial (NYSE:PRU Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 3rd. The financial services provider reported $3.30 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.37 by ($0.07). The company had revenue of $14.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.48 billion. Prudential Financial had a net margin of 6.20% and a return on equity of 16.32%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.96 EPS. Analysts forecast that Prudential Financial will post 14.36 EPS for the current fiscal year. Prudential Financial Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 12th. Investors of record on Tuesday, February 17th will be issued a $1.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, February 17th. This represents a $5.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.4%. This is a boost from Prudential Financials previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. Prudential Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 54.00%. Insider Activity at Prudential Financial In other Prudential Financial news, major shareholder Insurance Co Of Ame Prudential bought 1,406,739 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, January 23rd. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $24.87 per share, with a total value of $34,985,598.93. Following the purchase, the insider directly owned 7,709,624 shares in the company, valued at approximately $191,738,348.88. This represents a 22.32% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, EVP Caroline Feeney sold 6,555 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $116.28, for a total transaction of $762,215.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 22,523 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,618,974.44. This represents a 22.54% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Prudential Financial Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Norges Bank purchased a new position in Prudential Financial during the second quarter worth about $122,778,000. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Prudential Financial by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 42,502,160 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,566,432,000 after buying an additional 600,482 shares in the last quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its holdings in shares of Prudential Financial by 49.2% in the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,720,781 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $184,192,000 after buying an additional 567,571 shares during the period. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership boosted its stake in shares of Prudential Financial by 183.3% in the third quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 804,316 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $83,440,000 after buying an additional 520,425 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP acquired a new position in Prudential Financial during the second quarter worth $40,552,000. 56.83% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. More Prudential Financial News Here are the key news stories impacting Prudential Financial this week: About Prudential Financial (Get Free Report) Prudential Financial, Inc, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, is a diversified financial services company with roots dating to 1875. The firm provides a range of insurance, retirement and investment products aimed at helping individual and institutional clients manage risk, accumulate and protect wealth, and plan for retirement. Prudentials long history in life insurance and related financial services has positioned it as a major participant in the U.S. insurance market and a provider of services to a broad client base. Prudentials core business activities include individual life insurance, annuities, retirement solutions and group insurance products for employers. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Prudential Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prudential Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RFG Advisory LLC lifted its position in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 6.5% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 12,378 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 756 shares during the period. RFG Advisory LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $9,445,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 1.5% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 80,407,430 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,680,004,000 after buying an additional 1,183,038 shares during the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 78,621.2% in the second quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 11,552,336 shares of the companys stock worth $9,005,392,000 after acquiring an additional 11,537,661 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company during the second quarter valued at $8,827,714,000. Jennison Associates LLC raised its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 4.3% in the 2nd quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 5,447,636 shares of the companys stock worth $4,246,596,000 after purchasing an additional 226,620 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.0% in the 2nd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 5,359,653 shares of the companys stock worth $4,178,010,000 after purchasing an additional 103,119 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have weighed in on LLY. Wolfe Research raised their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,050.00 to $1,250.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 3rd. UBS Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Leerink Partners boosted their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,234.00 to $1,296.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday. National Bankshares set a $1,286.00 price objective on Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Monday, December 1st. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reissued an outperform rating and issued a $1,300.00 target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Thursday. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nineteen have issued a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $1,203.75. Eli Lilly and Company Trading Up 3.6% Shares of LLY stock opened at $1,057.10 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 1.55, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.71. Eli Lilly and Company has a 12-month low of $623.78 and a 12-month high of $1,133.95. The stock has a market capitalization of $999.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 46.06, a P/E/G ratio of 0.91 and a beta of 0.39. The firms 50 day moving average is $1,052.25 and its 200 day moving average is $899.78. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The company reported $7.54 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $7.48 by $0.06. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 112.50% and a net margin of 31.66%.The firm had revenue of $19.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $17.85 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $5.32 EPS. The companys revenue was up 42.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2026 guidance at 33.500-35.000 EPS. Research analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current year. Eli Lilly and Company Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 13th will be given a dividend of $1.73 per share. This represents a $6.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 13th. This is an increase from Eli Lilly and Companys previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is currently 26.14%. Eli Lilly and Company News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting Eli Lilly and Company this week: About Eli Lilly and Company (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) is a global pharmaceutical company founded in 1876 and headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company researches, develops, manufactures and commercializes a broad range of medicines and therapies for patients worldwide. Eli Lilly maintains operations and commercial presence across North America, Europe, Asia and other regions, serving both developed and emerging markets. The company has been led in recent years by President and Chief Executive Officer David A. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. SHEPHERD WEALTH MANAGEMENT Ltd LIABILITY Co boosted its holdings in shares of Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report) by 117.4% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,074 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 2,200 shares during the quarter. Caterpillar accounts for 1.4% of SHEPHERD WEALTH MANAGEMENT Ltd LIABILITY Cos investment portfolio, making the stock its 19th largest position. SHEPHERD WEALTH MANAGEMENT Ltd LIABILITY Cos holdings in Caterpillar were worth $1,944,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get Caterpillar alerts: Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Caterpillar during the 2nd quarter worth about $2,165,899,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA boosted its stake in shares of Caterpillar by 1,851.8% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,830,414 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $873,382,000 after buying an additional 1,736,631 shares during the period. Marshall Wace LLP grew its position in shares of Caterpillar by 425.2% during the second quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 761,800 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $295,738,000 after buying an additional 616,739 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in shares of Caterpillar by 20.7% during the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,553,930 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,695,757,000 after buying an additional 609,023 shares during the period. Finally, Voya Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in Caterpillar by 36.9% in the third quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 1,777,589 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $848,177,000 after acquiring an additional 478,972 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.98% of the companys stock. Caterpillar Stock Up 7.1% Caterpillar stock opened at $726.38 on Monday. The company has a market capitalization of $339.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 38.60, a PEG ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a current ratio of 1.44. Caterpillar Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $267.30 and a fifty-two week high of $727.40. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $617.15 and a 200-day simple moving average of $530.49. Caterpillar Dividend Announcement Caterpillar ( NYSE:CAT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The industrial products company reported $5.16 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.67 by $0.49. The company had revenue of $19.13 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.81 billion. Caterpillar had a return on equity of 45.76% and a net margin of 13.14%.The firms revenue was up 17.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $5.14 earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that Caterpillar Inc. will post 19.86 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 19th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, January 20th will be given a dividend of $1.51 per share. This represents a $6.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, January 20th. Caterpillars dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 32.09%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In CAT has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Sanford C. Bernstein reissued a market perform rating and issued a $678.00 price objective on shares of Caterpillar in a research report on Friday, January 30th. Oppenheimer increased their target price on Caterpillar from $700.00 to $729.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 30th. DA Davidson raised their price target on Caterpillar from $569.00 to $650.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, February 2nd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Caterpillar in a research report on Monday, December 29th. Finally, William Blair set a $735.00 target price on Caterpillar in a research report on Friday, January 30th. Sixteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Caterpillar currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $690.90. Read Our Latest Report on CAT Caterpillar News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting Caterpillar this week: Positive Sentiment: Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Zacks: Post Q4 analysis Q4 beat and revenue/backlog strength CAT reported revenue and EPS above expectations and highlighted a record backlog that supports nearterm revenue visibility. Positive Sentiment: AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Yahoo: AI data centers AI / datacenter tailwind Coverage highlights growing demand for power and infrastructure tied to AI datacenter buildouts, which is a new revenue catalyst beyond traditional equipment cycles. Positive Sentiment: Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. MarketScreener: HSBC PT raise Analyst upgrade & higher price target HSBC raised its CAT target to $850 and maintained a buy rating, adding upward pressure to the stock. Neutral Sentiment: Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. MSN: Dow soars Market momentum helped lift the name CAT was one of the contributors to the Dows rally today, so some of the move is broad market/sector strength rather than companyspecific news. Neutral Sentiment: Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. MarketBeat: Valuation piece Valuation debate Multiple writeups note that CATs rerating has pushed valuation to a premium, framing risk/reward even as fundamentals improve. This shapes investor caution but doesnt change the underlying backlog/earnings. Negative Sentiment: Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. InsiderTrades: Insider sales Large insider selling Several senior insiders disclosed multimillion dollar stock sales (e.g., Denise C. Johnson, Bob De Lange), which can signal profittaking and may create shortterm selling pressure. Negative Sentiment: Analyst caution on pace of growth CFRA and others warn that while financials are strong, underlying growth may not be fast enough to justify some of the recent extreme shareprice moves; that comment tempers the rally. YouTube: CFRA caution Insider Buying and Selling In other news, insider Lange Bob De sold 16,070 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $704.97, for a total value of $11,328,867.90. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 79,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $56,364,466.41. This represents a 16.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Andrew R. J. Bonfield sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $575.06, for a total value of $5,750,600.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 45,460 shares in the company, valued at approximately $26,142,227.60. This represents a 18.03% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 112,563 shares of company stock valued at $73,657,655 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.33% of the companys stock. Caterpillar Profile (Free Report) Caterpillar Inc is a global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and locomotives. The companys product portfolio includes earthmoving machines such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and offhighway trucks, as well as a range of power generation products including generator sets and power systems for industrial and commercial use. Caterpillar serves customers across heavy construction, mining, energy, transportation and related industries with both equipment and integrated technology solutions. In addition to manufacturing, Caterpillar provides a broad range of aftermarket parts and support services, including maintenance, repair, remanufacturing and fleet management tools. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Caterpillar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Caterpillar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR Get Free Report) have been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the fourteen brokerages that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat.com reports. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month target price among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $74.0714. Get Kroger alerts: Several brokerages have recently weighed in on KR. Barclays set a $68.00 price objective on shares of Kroger and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, January 8th. Morgan Stanley set a $67.00 price target on shares of Kroger and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $70.00 price target (down previously from $78.00) on shares of Kroger in a report on Thursday, December 4th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Kroger from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, December 27th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upgraded Kroger from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $75.00 price objective for the company in a report on Thursday, January 8th. View Our Latest Stock Report on Kroger Kroger Stock Up 1.3% KR stock opened at $67.54 on Monday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $63.01 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $66.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.28, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a current ratio of 0.88. The stock has a market capitalization of $42.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 62.54, a PEG ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 0.62. Kroger has a one year low of $58.60 and a one year high of $74.90. Kroger (NYSE:KR Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, December 4th. The company reported $1.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.03 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $33.86 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $34.27 billion. Kroger had a return on equity of 38.06% and a net margin of 0.54%.The businesss revenue was up .7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.98 earnings per share. Kroger has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.750-4.800 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Kroger will post 4.44 EPS for the current year. Kroger Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Sunday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 13th will be paid a $0.35 dividend. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 13th. Krogers payout ratio is currently 129.63%. Kroger News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting Kroger this week: Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Brighton Jones LLC raised its stake in shares of Kroger by 27.3% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 15,733 shares of the companys stock valued at $962,000 after acquiring an additional 3,373 shares during the period. Woodline Partners LP raised its position in Kroger by 40.7% in the first quarter. Woodline Partners LP now owns 56,243 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,807,000 after purchasing an additional 16,270 shares during the period. Sivia Capital Partners LLC purchased a new position in Kroger in the second quarter valued at about $201,000. DAVENPORT & Co LLC lifted its stake in shares of Kroger by 8.2% during the second quarter. DAVENPORT & Co LLC now owns 8,948 shares of the companys stock worth $642,000 after purchasing an additional 677 shares in the last quarter. Finally, PDS Planning Inc boosted its position in shares of Kroger by 2.0% in the second quarter. PDS Planning Inc now owns 7,715 shares of the companys stock worth $553,000 after buying an additional 152 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.93% of the companys stock. About Kroger (Get Free Report) The Kroger Co (NYSE: KR) is one of the largest supermarket operators in the United States, offering a wide range of retail grocery and related services. Founded in Cincinnati in 1883 by Bernard Kroger, the company operates a portfolio of supermarket and multi-department store banners and provides customers with fresh foods, packaged groceries, deli and bakery items, meat and seafood, produce, and prepared foods. Krogers stores commonly include pharmacy services and fuel centers, positioning the company as a broad-based neighborhood retail destination for everyday needs. In addition to traditional in-store retailing, Kroger manufactures and distributes a variety of private-label brands and operates its own food production and supply-chain facilities. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Kroger Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kroger and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PICTURED ABOVE: At the announcement of the new global partnership between WIN Women in Innovation and AwakenAngels, Ireland's only women-led investment syndicate and community, are L to R: Denise McQuaid, Cofounder and Director of Investor Relations, AwakenAngels; Chloe Alana Williams, lead of WINs London chapter and author of the Hidden Women Report; Clare McGee, Cofounder and CEO, Clare McGee; and Mary Ann Pierce, Global Ambassador, AwakenHub. The new partnership was announced in New York at a reception at the British Consul Generals residence, attended by senior diplomatic representatives, including Deputy Irish Consul General Roisin Leonard and Deputy British Consul General Mel Lawrence. Irelands only all-island angel investment syndicate, AwakenAngels, has returned from its latest United States trade mission, having secured a strategic partnership with global organisation Women in Innovation (WIN) to accelerate the number of women becoming early-stage investors. Through the partnership, the syndicate will educate women working across the globe in innovation, technology, finance, and enterprise to become active angel investors through participation in its AwakenAngels Academy. The partnership provides WINs 6,000 members worldwide with access to the AwakenAngels Academy. The CPD-accredited programme is designed to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to invest in early-stage companies, including those led by Irish women. WIN members will join the next AwakenAngels Academy throughout 2026. The first cohort commences on February 17, with a limited number of sponsored places still available for registration for women interested in learning more about angel investing at awakenangelshq.com Formed in 2023, AwakenAngels recently revealed that it has already helped eight portfolio companies, all members of its sister all-island founder community, AwakenHub, secure more than 4.3M in investment. Portfolio companies include Gigi Supplements. The company, which won the InterTradeIreland Seedcorn competition, has just completed a 1.5M investment round and is now stocked in over 200 retail outlets, including Boots and Holland & Barrett stores across Ireland. Another four syndicate deals are set to close in the coming weeks. The new partnership was announced in New York at a reception at the British Consul Generals residence, attended by senior diplomatic representatives, including Deputy Irish Consul General Roisin Leonard and Deputy British Consul General Mel Lawrence. The event was one of a series organised as part of AwakenHub and AwakenAngels fourth St Brigids Day Trade Mission, during which 13 women founders from NI and ROI pitched asks ranging from 1.5M to 7M. The agreement follows research highlighted by Chloe Alana Williams, co-lead of WINs London chapter and founder of 8TH DAY, which found growing numbers of professional women are seeking alternative routes to investment advice and capital deployment. The findings cite low levels of trust in traditional banking and financial institutions. Instead, many are turning to peer-led networks and education-driven communities to guide their investment decisions, such as AwakenAngels. The Hidden Women Report's findings show 89% of the 2700 women surveyed feel its important to be financially independent, rising to 92% among women 45+. Speaking about the partnership, Denise McQuaid, Cofounder and Director of Investor Relations, AwakenAngels, said: The recent research by Chloe Williams, leader of the London WIN chapter, highlights the very real opportunities that exist for founder and angel investment communities like AwakenAngels and AwakenHub globally, and every woman who wants to have a bigger say in how she deploys her capital and owns her financial future. This partnership is also very important news for women founders globally. Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to growth, and this collaboration with WIN will deliver a new global pipeline of informed, values-aligned women investors who actively want to invest into early-stage businesses worldwide. By connecting women in innovation, finance, enterprise, and technology with the AwakenAngels Academy, we are turning their expertise and influence into ownership, and ensuring more women are at the investment table shaping the future of economies at home and around the world. READ NEXT: AIB Business Roadshow to visit Derry with focus on growth and fraud prevention Amanda Ramos, Chief Executive of WIN, said: "At WIN, we believe that true innovation requires a seat at every table, especially the one where financial decisions are made. This partnership with AwakenAngels is a vital step in evolving our members from industry practitioners to influential capital allocators, directly shaping the future of the global economy." Edwina Fitzmaurice, Chair of WIN, said: WIN was founded to bridge the gap between innovation and impact. By partnering with AwakenAngels, we are moving beyond just creating the future; we are ensuring our members have the financial literacy and platform to own it." Chloe Williams, Co-Chapter Lead in London said Women are taking control of their futures and finances. They are proactively seeking to upskill themselves and looking at brands and businesses that meet the needs of women. And investing in them to ensure they grow. Mary Ann Pierce, AwakenHub Global Ambassador, added: "The AwakenAngels partnership with WIN completes the ecosystem of women funding innovative women. We look forward to working with other professional organisations to encourage more to invest in building better futures for us all. The next AwakenAngels Academy, supported by British Business Bank and InterTradeIreland commences on February 17. Some sponsored places are still available, and applications for entry onto the nine-module online course close on Friday, February 13. Further information on the course and for founders seeking investment is available at awakenangelshq.com. As part of its mission to ensure Irish women founders have access to opportunities to scale their companies, AwakenHub is also hosting an information session at 1pm on Tuesday, 10th February with UMass Lowell and the Irish winner of last years competition, Medtech startup, Lia Eyecare. Both will outline the opportunities linked to the UMass Global Challenge and international market access. The Co. Cork-based firm entered the competition having heard about the opportunity while taking part in the 2025 AwakenHub and AwakenAngels St Brigids Day Trade Mission to Boston and New York. Interested companies can register at www.awakenhub.com or via the following link UMass 200K Challenge 2026 info session with AwakenHub Zoom Luma A busy week in the North West will also see the syndicate host its next in-person pitch night on Monday at the Maldron Hotel, Derry. Bringing together investors and founders for live pitches, the event also features a fireside conversation with Derry-based entrepreneur Leeann Monk Ogzul, founder of Elemental, who will reflect on her growth and exit journey. Sister organisation AwakenHub is also set to host the first residential of its WeScale programme this week. Delivered in conjunction with Cranfield University, 34 women founders from across Ireland will be welcomed to Derry this week, with further residentials planned for Galway and Cork in March and April. AwakenHub will also deliver its next Activate AI programme workshop on sales and investment at Catalyst, Derry, on Wednesday. Find out more at awakenangelshq.com and awakenhub.com. Four North West Regional College (NWRC) students from County Derry have received a prestigious SSE Renewables Scholarship to support them in their studies. Art students Rachel Smyth from Dungiven and Molly Madden from Limavady, Computing student Darraigh Murphy from Dungiven, and Journalism student Aine Patton from Greysteel, are among 27 students from the colleges five campuses who received a 2026 bursary at a special ceremony held this week. Dr. Catherine OMullan, Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards at NWRC said: Its been eight years since our first cohort of Higher Education students received a Scholarship from SSE Renewables. Since then, almost 200 students have been supported in their studies through the scheme. Many of the students have now completed their studies and gone on to successful careers. At NWRC, we are committed to fostering innovation and creativity in the next generation of leaders. The colleges courses offer critical and transferable skills that our students will use beyond their years of study and into future careers. We hope to continue to work in partnership with SSE Renewables as we grow the workforce of the future. Our thanks to SSE Renewables for their continued support to the colleges students who are studying for a future in key technological and creative industries critical for the growth of our economy. Vicky Boden - Senior Community Investment Manager for SSE commented: We are delighted to again be able to support the students at North West Regional College with the SSE Scholarships. Investing in education is at the heart of SSEs commitment to local communities in Northern Ireland, and its inspiring to see the ambition and potential of the students here today. Since 2004, the Fund has supported scholarships for over 500 students attending third-level education at Ulster University, South West College and of course here at North West Regional College. These scholarships not only ease financial pressures but also empower students to achieve their full potential, contributing to the future growth and prosperity of local communities. To all of you that have been successful in gaining a scholarship we would like to wish you all the best in your studies and in all of your future endeavours." The SSE Scholarship programme was created to help local students with their student fees and expenses whilst creating a pool of well-trained and experienced professionals, transforming career prospects in regional communities and positively impacting future generations. The wind-powered scholarship programme is funded by the SSE Renewables Regional Fund for Slieve Kirk Wind Park and Tievenameenta Wind Farm, both owned and operated by SSE Renewables, as well as the Greencoat Renewables owned Slieve Divena II Wind Farm. SSE is Northern Irelands largest renewable energy generator. Their scholarship fund supports students living close to the companys wind farms in Tyrone, Derry, Fermanagh, and County Donegal and provides 50% funding support (up to 2500 per student) towards the cost of third-level fees for recipients commencing first-year studies in STEAM-associated subjects at partner colleges. NWRC offers a range of University Level Courses including: Level 6 Top Up degrees, Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas and Certificates, Fully Funded Higher Level Apprenticeships, and Professional Qualifications. You can apply at www.nwrc.ac.uk/higher-education Top GB travel journalists from major media outlets including The Guardian, Metro and Reach PLC (news publisher) have been visiting Northern Ireland this week, as guests of Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI. The journalists have a combined reach of around 3.5 million readers across GB. The groups action-packed itinerary began in Belfast, with a heritage tour at The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, a music and art tour with Creative Tours Belfast, a visit to McConnells Distillery and a site visit of The Bedford Hotel. They attended a special screening of How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, the new comedy drama series from Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee, which is set to air on Netflix from 12 February. Ahead of the screening, the group also enjoyed a food tour with Taste & Tour and a Belfast Traditional Music Trail. Then it was on to the Causeway Coastal Route and a stop at Gleno Waterfall. The journalists continued to The Harbourview Hotel a key filming location in How to Get to Heaven from Belfast where they had the opportunity to meet the hotels resident star, Paddy the Irish Wolfhound! Glenariff Forest Park and Glenarm Castle also featured on the programme. Julie Wakley, Tourism Irelands Head of GB, said: Northern Ireland continues to be a compelling destination for GB holidaymakers and 2026 offers even more reasons to visit from our growing screen tourism offering to major cultural events such as the Fleadh Cheoil, which will take place in Belfast in August. The articles produced by these influential journalists will reach millions and are sure to inspire GB holidaymakers to put Northern Ireland on their must visit list this year. Derry actor Cait Ni Cheallaigh is taking to the stage of The Everyman Theatre in Cork in MTU Cork School of Musics production of Come From Away. Starring as eager, young journalist Janice Mosher for Rogers TV, Ms Ni Cheallaigh and her fellow School of Music, Musical Theatre BA degree students will tell the story of the events of 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland. The production, which has been described as powerful and uplifting will run at The Everyman from February 11 to 14, 2026. Come From Away tells the true story of 7,000 air passengers who were diverted to the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, following the events of September 11, 2001. Cultures clash and nerves run high, but ultimately, fear gives way to trust as Newfoundlanders welcome the "plane people" into their lives and homes. Cait Ni Cheallaigh (Janice Mosher) and Sofia Stenstrand (Bonnie Harris) rehearsing for MTU Cork School of Music's production of 'Come From Away'. (Photograph: Leah O'Shea) The musical is a moving testament to human kindness and resilience in the face of tragedy. This presentation offers a unique opportunity to witness the rising stars of Irish musical theatre tackle one of the most emotionally resonant musicals of the modern era. The production will feature a stellar creative team, led by acclaimed West End and Broadway star Killian Donnelly (Phantom of The Opera, Les Miserables) working as director with CSM students for the second time after last years success with 9-5 The Musical. Mr Donnelly said: It is an honour to be asked back to MTU Cork School of Music to direct Come from Away, a piece that I hold very close to my heart, having previously worked with the creative team of the original Broadway production. Im very touched to be asked to direct this show about community, friendship and helping others in their time of need. Im really looking forward to it and cant wait to bring it to Cork audiences, he added. Joining Donnelly are a host of respected Irish theatre professionals. Musical director, David Hayes is known for his extensive work across theatre, classical music, TV and more, including Riverdance, Dancing With The Stars, RTE, and West Side Story in Concert, Boird Gais Energy Theatre. Come From Away choreographer, Therese O'Sullivan is a dynamic choreographer working across various genres. Her credits include: 9 to 5, Our House, and Addams Family, presented by MTU BA Musical Theatre). The BA in Musical Theatre at MTU Cork School of Music is a specialised, practice-based degree that trains students in all facets of musical theatre performance, providing them with professional-level preparation for careers in the industry. Come From Away - The Everyman Theatre, Cork: Wednesday, February 11 to Saturday, February 14, 2026, 7.30pm. Matinee, Saturday, February 14, 2.30pm. This will be an ISL performance. A schools only show will be performed on Friday, February 13, 11am. For more information contact groups@everymancork.com to book or call 021 450 1780. Tickets: 28 | 25 | 13 and can be booked at www.everymancork.com or 00353 (0) 21 450 1673. An estimated 300 people in Northern Ireland die each year from work-related illnesses. The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has launched a new TV and multimedia initiative raising awareness of the potential workplace dangers to health. It says figures suggest that past workplace exposures to dusts, fumes and gases, amongst other harmful substances, result in more than 300 deaths a year. The HSENIs Workplace Health Statistics and Analysis for Northern Ireland 2025 publication estimated there were 110 deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to work in 2023. HSENI News release HSENI new advertising initiative aimed at reducing over 300 work-related deaths estimated to occur annually in Northern Ireland. Read more here https://t.co/qYVjXqs1or pic.twitter.com/xWiklOJA7f HSENI (@Hsenigov) February 9, 2026 It contends that 6,400 people suffered from work-related COPD in 2023, and 15 asbestosis-related deaths were registered in 2022. It also estimates around 200 deaths a year could be attributable to occupational cancers. These include 47 deaths from mesothelioma, 47 from asbestos-related lung cancers and 20 lung cancer deaths due to exposure to silica dust at work. Another 80 work-related cancer deaths were linked to exposure to cancer-causing agents such as diesel engine exhaust emissions (15), mineral oils (15), and other (50). Meanwhile, other work-related illnesses included 18,000 people suffering from musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), 15,000 people suffering from stress, depression, or anxiety and 4,000 people suffering from illnesses other than stress, depression or anxiety such as skin conditions and hearing loss. The HSENIs workplace health campaign previously called for awareness of workplace health concerns, the impact they can have, and the need for appropriate controls. The new campaign urges employers and employees to recognise and manage the risk to health in workplaces, approaching it in the same way as the safety risk. Stormont Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said it sends a clear message to all employers that work-related illnesses are unacceptable and preventable. Work should never come at the expense of health or life. Yet each year, many people continue to develop serious, life-changing conditions because workplace risks are not always identified or managed effectively, she said. Tragically, more than 300 people are estimated to die annually from work-related illnesses. Thousands more experience health problems linked to their jobs, with an annual cost of more than 390 million to our society. This campaign highlights the importance of recognising and addressing workplace health risks. By encouraging open conversation and greater awareness we can help ensure that good jobs support both safety and wellbeing, strengthening our workforce, communities and the economy. Robert Kidd, chief executive of HSENI, said he hoped the advertising initiative would create greater awareness amongst employers and workers. We are urging employers of every size to actively engage with this workplace health campaign, he said. Too often, serious ill health develops because risks are not identified or adequately controlled yet prevention is always better than cure, and simple, practical changes at work can prevent lifelong harm and dramatically improve quality of life. He added: Everyone has the legal right to return home with their health protected, not just their safety. With this advertising initiative we hope we can reach more employers, share clear and practical guidance, and drive real, lasting improvements in preventing work-related ill health. No one should get ill as a result of a job choice. The legal requirement to protect health in the workplace is the same as safety. Time is running out to introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol, the Health Minister has warned. During health questions in Stormont Mike Nesbitt said he is passionate about introducing the scheme but is experiencing blockage from his colleagues in the Executive. The ministers department undertook a public consultation exercise on setting a minimum price for alcohol in 2022 and Mr Nesbitt has previously stated that alcohol misuse costs Northern Ireland 900 million a year. Minimum unit pricing (MUP) was introduced in Scotland in 2018 and means alcohol such as beer, wine and vodka cannot be sold for less than 65p per unit. In 2023, there were 341 registered alcohol-specific deaths in Northern Ireland, accounting for 2.0% of all deaths. While slightly lower than the 356 recorded in 2022, deaths have risen by more than 65% in the last decade. Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly said chief medical officer Dr Michael McBride told Stormonts Health Committee evidence for the minimum unit pricing of alcohol is irrefutable. Weve also heard this from many health organisations and charities who work in this area, he said. What is the ministers understanding of barriers to this being legislated for in this mandate, and not becoming a missed opportunity to save lives and to reduce the pressure on the health service? Mr Nesbitt said: I applaud the chief medical officer because Professor Sir Michael McBride is passionate about introducing minimum unit pricing for alcohol. I am passionate about MUP for alcohol, and there is really solid evidence. Most recently, the chief medical officer and I attended a presentation from Sheffield University who have looked in real detail on the impact on the population here in Northern Ireland from that alcohol misuse. There is a blockage. I need the Executive to support me and as yet I have not had full Executive support. UUP MLA Alan Chambers said the minister had taken demonstrable action to try to make progress on the issue. He asked: Does he agree with me, however, that we are now in the rapidly shrinking window of opportunity to make progress with the Bill, and that if the Executive blockage isnt soon removed, that the opportunity to progress this vital MUP legislation in this mandate will be lost? Mr Nesbitt replied: The policy requires the support of the Executive, I shall await formal confirmation of the position of Executive colleagues. Time is running out, and I would just add to that, prior to April 6 coming, Im required to either bring forward legislation to set that minimum unit price or make a statement to the Assembly of why it has not been reasonably practical to do so. Thats a requirement in the Licensing and Registrations of Clubs Amendment Act Northern Ireland 2021, I fear I am going to be doing the latter, and I very, very much regret that. Mr Nesbitt has frequently spoken out about tackling health inequalities in Northern Ireland. Earlier in the session he told MLAs: I really think I would encourage the next mandate, the next executive, to think about health inequalities, educational underachievement, economic inactivity, because the social determinants of all three are basically the same, and they affect the areas of deprivation, those families, those people, the most. And its generation to generation to generation, and its time we took a chunk out of that. The Egyptian government has struck a US$3.5 billion agreement with the countrys four mobile operators to double their existing spectrum holdings, in a move designed to underpin future digital transformation and next-generation services. Communications Minister Amr Talaat said the deal will double operator spectrum in a single transaction, positioning the market for the rollout of future technologies. The government added that the newly awarded frequencies match the total amount of spectrum allocated to operators in Egypt over the past 30 years. State-controlled Telecom Egypt, alongside Vodafone Egypt, Orange Egypt and E& Egypt, will collectively pay the agreed sum for 410 MHz of spectrum. Highlighting the scale and strategic importance of the deal, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli attended the signing ceremony. Vodafone Egypt said in a statement the additional spectrum will enable it to significantly enhance 4G data connectivity and better meet surging demand for mobile data services. The allocation spans the 1,800MHz and 3,500MHz bands, alongside the renewal of spectrum in the 2,600MHz band. Vodafone Egypt will initially secure 2 x 10MHz in the 1,800MHz band, with the licence to be settled through four annual instalments, starting with a US$100 million payment in its 2025 financial year. The operator has already been flagged as a bright spot in Vodacoms Q3 results, accounting for more than a quarter of the groups service revenue and underlining the strategic importance of the Egyptian market. Nigers Zamani Telecom has signed a partnership agreement with Hayo covering A2P monetisation and SMS firewall solutions. Under the deal, Hayo will test, identify and prevent fraud across Zamanis traffic to increase profitability, sustainability and trust within its A2P SMS business. Hayos SMS Firewall solution detects and blocks A2P SMS traffic that is being terminated into Zamanis home network over grey routes, ensuring that all A2P SMS is terminated over official whitelisted routes and charged accordingly. The solution includes daily penetration testing to detect bypass and fraudulent routes, rules optimisation, AIT detection to identify unsolicited traffic, and anti-fraud training, as well as consultancy with the Zamani team. Testing methodologies include OTT generated tests from the main OTT applications and services, as well as simulated 2FA messages sent via international hubs. The result is reduced revenue losses from fraud and a continually evolving security posture. Hayos model is used by providers including Alibaba, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Temu and TikTok to deliver A2P SMS traffic in Niger. Our A2P monetisation strategies and SMS Firewall solutions ensure that operators are free from fraud and proactively blocking traffic from illegitimate sources, said Feraz Ahmed, CEO at Hayo. Were providing on-the-ground innovation in Niger that will benefit the entire mobile ecosystem in the country. Zamani Telecom, formerly Orange Niger, serves more than 3 million customers in Niger. The rush to build data centres in Malaysia continues apparently unabated, with new announcements targeting Cyberjaya, a planned city outside of Malaysias capital Kuala Lumpur, and Banting, a town in the western peninsular state of Selangor. AIMS, a company owned by investment firm Digital Bridge, which focuses on digital infrastructure, has acquired ten acres of land in Malaysia to develop a data centre facility with 200MW of capacity. AIMS, a data centre operator that provides colocation and edge facilities and interconnection services in Southeast Asia, says that the facility will see approximately RM4 billion (US$1 billion) worth of investment, with construction scheduled for completion in 2027. Described as AIMS next flagship ecosystem and hyperscale facility, it will be located in Cyberjaya, where the company already operates a 50MW data centre that began construction in 2020. Meanwhile, Malaysian property developer IOI Properties Group has sold 136 acres of land in one of its industrial parks in Banting, Selangor to Singapores Bridge Data Centres for the construction of a data centre campus. The Data Centre Dynamics website says Selangor surrounds Malaysias capital Kuala Lumpur, and the area is known as a colocation and cloud hub in contrast to Johor, where most of Malaysias hyperscale facilities are set to be built. It adds that details about the campus capacity, power source, and total floor area were not made available, though IOI Properties Group has a presence in Malaysia, Singapore, and Xiamen in China, and the company specialises in property development and investment. Bridge DC is a prominent data centre player in Malaysia and the APAC region. It currently operates two facilities in Cyberjaya, with a third in development; it launched a data centre outside Johor in 2022. Recent data centre news from the Middle East and North Africa includes announcements from the UAE and Tunisia that, as so often recently, focus on energy efficiency. Late last week the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, along with Khazna Data Centres, an advanced data centres provider in the country, and Agility, an investor in global and regional businesses, announced a pilot to implement AI technology from a company called Phaidra to accelerate energy efficiency across data centres and district cooling operations in the UAE. Phaidra develops AI software that optimises power, cooling and operational efficiency in data centres and other energy-intensive infrastructure. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishes a framework for collaboration to enhance the energy efficiency and economic performance of energy-intensive digital infrastructure. As part of the initiative, the pilot will evaluate the deployment of advanced control system technology developed by Phaidra. The partners explain that Phaidras AI agents orchestrate the complex power, cooling and workload management systems that underpin modern AI data centres for peak tokens-per-watt efficiency which is becoming ever more important as AI workloads drive higher energy and performance requirements. This initiative builds upon Khaznas existing collaboration with AI computing specialist Nvidia to accelerate AI infrastructure development across the MEA region. Khazna says it is designing and building next-generation AI factories using the Nvidia DSX Blueprint, an open and comprehensive reference architecture for large-scale AI infrastructure. Khazna says its hyperscale operational expertise will support the deployment and evaluation of Phaidras reinforcement learning agents across selected data centre campuses. The pilot will assess the potential to significantly reduce cooling energy consumption, increase IT capacity, and enhance the resilience and reliability of mission-critical AI infrastructure, particularly in high ambient-temperature environments. This multi-party collaboration enables the Ministry, Khazna, and Agility to assess opportunities to scale AI-enabled optimisation solutions more broadly across the UAE. Meanwhile, earlier last week, SoleCrypt, a developer of sustainable digital infrastructure, and Schneider Electric, which describes itself as the global leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced the signing of an MoU to study and co-develop next generation sustainable AI data centres in Tunisia. These facilities are designed to host intensive artificial intelligence compute workloads while maintaining a low carbon and water footprint. The partnership aims to position Tunisia as a strategic platform for sustainable computing serving Europe and the MENA region, building on the countrys key advantages in renewable energy, international connectivity through submarine fibre optic cables, and a fast growing digital ecosystem. Under this collaboration, SoleCrypt will provide strategic sites across Tunisia with strong connectivity to the national power grid and telecommunications infrastructure, enabling sub-10-millisecond latency to Europe. Schneider Electric will act as a key technology advisor, providing AI data centre reference architectures co-developed with Nvidia, as well as medium and low-voltage electrification solutions, secure power systems, liquid cooling and intelligent infrastructure management. PLDT Enterprise announced on Friday it is collaborating with TikTok to launch TikTok Go LIVE! Studio Packages targeted at creators, multi-channel networks (MCNs) and SMEs in the Philippines. The partnership aims to combine PLDT Enterprises connectivity solutions and managed services with TikToks ecosystem to provide customers with reliable enterprise-grade infrastructure and innovative digital solutions for their livestreaming and content creation activities. PLDT said that TikTok MCNs will get dedicated, strong, stable, and secure connectivity, robust backend support, and 24x7 customer care to support uninterrupted livestreaming operation, while content creators gain a more consistent streaming environment capable of handling strong audience growth and sustained viewer engagement. For SMEs, TikTok Go LIVE! offers them a chance to become TikTok MCN partners, which in turn gives then the ability to offer creators brand deals with higher commissions, faster audience growth via cross-promotion, access to exclusive tools and training, operational support for content and strategy, and intellectual property protection, all of which allows creators to focus on content creation and selling. Vic Tria, PLDT Enterprises head of Enterprise Domestic Business and SME, said TikTok content has evolved over the past few years in the Philippines from a novelty to a necessity for many businesses. Its also not something for the far future. Its happening now as we speak. This collaboration is exactly for that: to help SMEs, MCNs, and creators work more efficiently and ensure their online marketing efforts are backed by dependable infrastructure, connectivity, and digital solutions, Tria said in a statement. We are proud of how Filipino TikTok creators have used the platform to share their craft, build meaningful connections, and contribute positively to their communities, added Jacob John Kuttisseril, Strategic Partner Lead for APAC at TikTok. By working closely with PLDT Enterprise, TikTok aims to empower creators and small businesses to reach wider audiences and build meaningful connections online. Saudi Arabian telco stc Group announced on Sunday it has signed a deal to build the Syrian governments SAR 3 billion (US$800 million) Silklink project that aims to boost Syrias optical fibre infrastructure and create a regional internet hub. Stc said it signed the deal after winning a competitive tender for the project, without giving specifics on how much the contract is worth or who else bid for the project, apart from most regional telecommunications companies. Last year, Reuters reported that the Syrian government was in talks with Zain, Etisalat, stc and Ooredoo regarding a US$300 million project to expand the countrys fibre-optic network. Silklink is the brainchild of the Syrian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, which launched the project in May 2025 to enhance telecoms infrastructure and connect Syria regionally and internationally. The project proposes to build a 4,500 km fibre-optic network across the country, as well as establish data centres and international subsea cable landing stations. Silklink will provide high data transfer capacities and greater reliability, enabling telecom operators in Syria and the region to offer advanced communication services, and support digital applications, cloud services and the Internet of Things. Meanwhile, Stc said in a statement that it sees the Silklink project as an extension of its own strategy to expand its investments in cross-border digital infrastructure, and to build a regional connectivity system linking Arab, Asian and European markets. Following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Syria has been making moves to rebuild critical digital infrastructure after 14 years of civil war and decades of Western sanctions. Syrias new leadership has pledged to accelerate improvements in public services, including communications. In July 2025, the Ministry of Communications and Technology signed an MoU with Saudi Arabia-based Etihad Salam Telecom Company to develop and expand access to digital infrastructure in Syria. In October last year, Syria reportedly signed an agreement with Medusa Submarine Cable System to establish the countrys first international subsea cable connection. Bengaluru-based startup Sarvam AI has recently launched Bulbul V3, which is a new text-to-speech model designed for Indian languages, accents, and real-world use cases. The company says the model delivers more natural and stable speech than global rivals and has already outperformed tools from Google and OpenAI in key evaluations. With Bulbul V3, Sarvam is positioning itself as a serious player in voice AI, an area long dominated by US-based companies. Moreover, Bulbul V3 is one of several tools Sarvam has launched in a 14-day rollout ahead of the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The startup is also among the 12 entities selected under the Rs 10,300 crore India AI Mission, where sovereign Indian AI models are expected to be unveiled later this month. Survey Thank you for completing the survey! Also read: Google Pixel 10a India launch soon: Price, pre-order date, specs and more Sarvam says Bulbul V3 is designed around the realities of Indian speech. People often mix languages in a single sentence, pronounce the same word differently across regions, and use names or expressions that global systems struggle to handle. According to the company, Bulbul V3 manages these challenges without breaking flow or meaning. As per the reports, the model is capable of generating speech with natural pauses, emphasis, and pace. Furthermore, it also supports real-time audio output, which is useful for live conversations, call centres, and interactive apps. Sarvam says that the fast response time is highly important in such settings, as delayed responses can hurt the user experience. Also read: OpenAI co-founder says agentic engineering is the next big thing in AI coding Bulbul V3 was tested by an independent third party through blind listening studies across 11 languages. Human listeners compared audio clips from different AI models without knowing which system produced them. While ElevenLabs ranked highest in overall sound quality, Bulbul V3 beat competitors like Cartesia Sonic-3 in general evaluations. Sarvam Vision achieves state-of-the-art accuracy of 84.3% on the olmOCR-Bench (English only subset) outperforming frontier models like Gemini 3 Pro and recent OCR models like DeepSeek OCR 2. pic.twitter.com/NsvN15hNqa Pratyush Kumar (@pratykumar) February 5, 2026 Sarvam also said Bulbul V3 performed best in telephony quality tests, which are important for phone-based services. The model showed fewer skipped words and mispronunciations compared to rivals. In related document and speech tasks through Sarvam Vision, the company has earlier claimed better results than Google Gemini and ChatGPT on certain benchmarks. Also read: Apple iOS 26.4 beta may release this month with smarter Siri: Check details The new model also allows users to create custom AI voices through consent-based voice cloning. Sarvam says the feature includes safeguards and is built for large enterprise use. Developers can access the model through the Sarvam Dashboard, with unlimited API usage available until February 28, 2026. The iQOO 15 is the most expensive iQOO phone to date, and without a doubt, the most complete one I have used so far. Starting at Rs 72,999 for the 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage variant and going up to Rs 79,999 for the 16 GB and 512 GB version, this is no longer the more affordable than OnePlus kind of flagship iQOO was once known for. And yet, after using this phone as my primary device: taking it everywhere, shooting content, gaming, using navigation and binge-watching content late into the night, I can say this much with confidence: iQOO isnt trying to play the underdog anymore. This feels like the year the brand has decided to stand shoulder to shoulder with the big players, rather than nip at their heels. Trust me when I say this, the iQOO 15 is fast in every sense of the word. It is bold in its approach, loaded to the brim with top-tier hardware, and for the first time in a long while, it truly feels like a no-compromise Android flagship from iQOO. There are no obvious weak links here, no corners that feel clearly cut just to hit a price point. I walked into this review curious and slightly sceptical because of the price hike, but after living with the phone, the picture is far more interesting than just numbers on a spec sheet. Heres my full experience with the iQOO 15. Lets dive in. Also read: Vivo X300 review: New generation, fresh energy The price reality check and the OnePlus comparison that cant be ignored Lets address the obvious first. The iQOO 13 launched at Rs 54,999 and topped out at Rs 59,999, and the iQOO 15 now comfortably sits north of Rs 70,000. No matter how you cut it, that leap does sting. Yes, component costs have risen across the industry, and you can see that reflected in phones like the latest Vivo X and Oppo Find X flagships too, but for long-time iQOO buyers, this is still the first time the brand has felt truly expensive. The saving grace is the fairly generous bank offers, up to Rs 7,000 off, which do soften the blow and make the pricing easier to digest. At that effective price, the iQOO 15 starts to feel more like a value-heavy flagship again rather than an aspirational one. Whats interesting, though, is how this price shift changes iQOOs position in the market. For years, iQOO lived in that space just below OnePlus. That buffer is now gone. The iQOO 15 and OnePlus 15 sit in the same price bracket, which means iQOO is no longer selling you a more affordable alternative, but asking to be judged as an equal. Having used both, I do feel the iQOO 15 has a few meaningful edges, especially with its absurdly bright display, dependable battery life and slightly more consistent sustained performance. At the same time, this also means iQOO gets held to a higher standard now. At this price, people will nit-pick software polish, camera tuning and long-term reliability far more than they ever did before. The iQOO 15 mostly rises to that challenge, but the shift in expectations is as big a change as the phone itself. The screen that turns heads This is hands down the brightest display on a phone I have ever used. And I may be wrong on this, but I am just speaking out of personal experience. On paper, its a massive 6.85-inch LTPO OLED panel with a 1440 x 3168 resolution, 1-144Hz refresh rate, Schott Xensation protection, and a claimed brightness of 2,600 nits (HBM) along with a crazy 6,000 nits peak brightness. During my actual testing, I achieved approximately 1,975 nits in auto brightness and around 1,470 nits manually. Thats still absurdly bright. And this isnt just lab talk. To recall, I was shooting a quick reel at my best friends haldi ceremony on a sunny terrace, and instead of getting ready, my friend walked out just to ask which phone this was because the screen was still perfectly visible in harsh sunlight. Ive even compared it side by side with my iPhone 17 Pro Max, and yes, the iQOO 15 looks brighter. Add HDR playback, 2K resolution and that buttery smooth 144Hz refresh rate, and this becomes one of the finest displays you can get today on a phone: for content, gaming, or simply just gawking at the screen endlessly. Performance that flies Powering the iQOO 15 is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a name Qualcomm really needs to simplify, but a chip that absolutely flies. Paired with up to 16 GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB UFS 4.1 storage, everything on this phone feels instant. I can barely think of a moment when I felt the phone was lagging or if there was even a minor stutter. App launches are fast, multitasking is fluid, and the touch response is precise while gaming. I would point out that there was a bit of shutter lag while taking photos at night, but that seems to have sorted with the latest software build (PD2505F_EX_A_16.0.18.6.W30) of OriginOS 6. More on this in a bit. Benchmark numbers also back the performance. Geekbench 6 scores stand at 3,563 for single-core and 10,029 for multi-core. Antutu pushed past 3.73 million with 1.08 million on CPU and 1.38 million on GPU. The 3D Mark Stress Test delivered a best loop of 19,582, a lowest loop of 15,654 and stability of 79.9%. The CPU throttle test averaged 330K GIPS with 76% stability. Long story short, this phone is brutally fast. But does it heat up? Well, during benchmarking, yes, it did get warm. But so do other smartphones too, that are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Whats worth noting is that in real-world use, Ive never felt it become uncomfortably hot. Ive been using it daily for navigation on Android Auto, watching videos late into the night, shooting loads of photos and even gaming, and the phone at most becomes lukewarm. Compared to how some Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phones struggled this year, the iQOO 15 actually manages thermals fairly well. Software that finally feels grown up The iQOO 15 runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, and this is probably the most confident software experience iQOO has ever shipped. It no longer feels like a skin trying too hard. It feels mature. Animations are smooth, the interface feels clean, and the overall experience is genuinely pleasant. You get all the expected AI features: Googles Gemini, summary tools, AI notes, photo enhancements, and whatnot. But what really stood out for me, as part of the software package, is Office Kit. It lets you connect your phone to your PC seamlessly for file sharing, screen mirroring, note syncing and general productivity. Those who use an iPhone with a Mac would understand where I am coming from. It actually works without drama, and that alone makes it a value-add feature rather than just a checklist item. iQOO is also promising five years of software updates and seven years of security patches, which is finally in line with what premium smartphone buyers expect. A dependable camera for day and night For the first time, iQOOs camera system feels properly flagship-ready. You get three 50MP sensors at the back: a primary camera, an ultra-wide, and a 3x periscope telephoto. That periscope lens alone is a massive upgrade over previous iQOO flagships. Daylight photos or generally images shot in good light are excellent with high detail, natural colours and well-managed dynamic range. Now, there is a bit of processing going on in photos, but it is something that I personally prefer, as the photos shot on this phone look quite vibrant and stand out. Portraits are a proper highlight, especially using the 3x lens. Edge detection is clean, background blur looks natural, and skin tones are pleasing. Low-light performance is solid too, thanks to the softwares ability to control highlights and keep noise in check. The main camera performs best here, while the ultra-wide and telephoto do show some noise in very dark scenes, but nothing alarming. The 32MP selfie camera delivers sharp, bright photos with good HDR in daylight. Occasionally, colours can look slightly off or overly sharpened indoors, but most people will be more than happy with it. Video support goes all the way up to 8K at 30fps and 4K at 60fps on the rear cameras, with good stabilisation and dynamic range. Even the front camera can do 4K at 60fps, which content creators will appreciate. Is it better than camera-focused phones like the Vivo X300 Pro? Not quite. But as part of a performance-first flagship and for its asking price, the iQOO 15s camera system holds its own. Battery anxiety? Not this year The iQOO 15 packs a massive 7,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery, and it shows in daily life. With my usage, I charge the phone every other night. Overnight battery drop sits at just 2-3%. On work days, Android Auto keeps topping it up during commutes, and I still manage to end the day with around 40% battery left without trying too hard. The PC Mark battery life test clocked in at 25 hours and 42 minutes, which tells you just how strong the endurance really is. When I finally do plug it in, the 100W wired charging is ridiculously fast. Even a near-full top-up rarely takes around 30 minutes, since the phones battery never really gets fully drained. For those who care, theres also 40W wireless charging, but since the brand does not sell an official wireless charger to take advantage of the 40W speeds, youll have to rely on third-party options. A premium build with excellent in-hand feel For those wondering if I forgot about the design and build, well, truth be told, this is actually the very first impression you form of any phone. How it looks, and more importantly, how it feels in the hand. I have the iQOO 15 in the Legend colourway, which has been the brands flagship finish for years now, and it still looks clean, confident and premium. Compared to the iQOO 13 Legend, which weighed 213g, this one is heavier at about 220g. And yet, when I first picked it up, I genuinely thought it was lighter. Thats down to the improved weight distribution and those softer corners, which stop the boxy frame from digging into your fingers. Whats even more impressive is that the thickness has barely changed. The iQOO 13 was 8.13mm, while this one is just 8.17mm, despite packing a much larger 7,000 mAh battery. The matte-finish back feels soft to the touch and doesnt attract fingerprints easily. Add to that the solid aluminium frame, well-placed buttons with satisfying clicks, an IR blaster, and the IP68/IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, and you have a phone that doesnt cut corners. In-hand feel, quite simply, is excellent. iQQO 15: Verdict The iQOO 15 feels like a defining moment for the brand. It is no longer just chasing performance numbers or trying to undercut rivals on price. Instead, it is finally trying to stand confidently among the top Android flagships. Theres the absurdly bright 2K display, the performance is rock-solid, the battery life is dependable, and the camera system is surprisingly capable. Basically, what I am trying to imply is that the phone delivers where it truly matters in daily use. It feels refined, powerful, and, for the most part, well thought through. Recalling my conversation with iQOOs CEO, Nipun Marya, he made it clear that pricing this year was driven not just by rising component costs, but by the sheer number of upgrades packed into the iQOO 15. The new chipset, the periscope camera, wireless charging, the larger silicon-carbon battery, and the list goes on. That explanation reflects in real-world usage too. This phone genuinely feels like a meaningful step-up over the iQOO 13. Of course, theres no denying that the price hike is real, and at this level, expectations rise sharply. But with bank offers applied, the iQOO 15 becomes a well-rounded, no-compromise flagship smartphone that finally feels confident playing in the big leagues. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe No new restaurants in Great Britain and Ireland have been awarded the illustrious three Michelin star rating, despite much speculation Irelands first would be named. Michelin revealed its latest guide at a ceremony in Dublin on Monday night, the first time the event has been held in the country. Ten restaurants retained their three Michelin star status, but no new names were added to the prestigious list. There had been predictions Ireland had been chosen to host the event because the countrys first three star restaurant would be added to the guide. Two eateries, Row on 5 and Bonheur by Matt Abe, both in London, were elevated to two-star status. Among the 20 recipients of their first Michelin star is Fifty Two at Rudding Park in Harrogate which is known for its Dessert Islands Discs, where guests choose music to play and chef Adam Degg said they try to create a party in the restaurant. Mare by Rafael Cagali became the first Michelin stared restaurant in Brighton and Hove in nearly 50 years. Two Restaurants Newly Awarded Two MICHELIN Stars in The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026From the latest Two-Star restaurants to 20 new One-Stars and five Special Awards, discover everything you need to know from The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony 2026https://t.co/AzM6wSXDOt pic.twitter.com/upeF3Z5zkm The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 A Galway restaurant, The Pullman which is housed in two restored Orient Express carriages, also picked up a star. Alexander Claridge, of The Wilderness in Birmingham which also collected its first star, said the city doesnt take itself too seriously, but it is serious about food. When you love what you do, its easy and we love what we do, was John Wyer of Forest Avenue in Dublins response when his restaurant was awarded a star. The 2026 Young Chef Award went to Tom Earnshaw of Bohemia on Jersey. He said he was inspired by walking his dog on the beach, saying it is one of the benefits of working on an island, and adding: Just nice to get away from it all sometimes. Sebbs in the centre of Glasgow received the Exceptional Cocktail Award. Shwen Shwen in Kent was named Opening of the Year, it describes itself as bringing the flavours of Sierra Leone to the heart of Sevenoaks. Maria Bradford said her familys restaurant literally represents the underrepresented. New MICHELIN-Star Restaurants for 2026 in Great Britain & Ireland Discover all of Great Britain & Irelands brand-new MICHELIN-Star restaurants, from grand historic settings to neighbourhood hauntshttps://t.co/7v3gh3Z9gq pic.twitter.com/crXvzj8lT6 The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay handed out the prize for Sommelier of the Year, which went to Roxane Dupuy of Row on 5 in London. He also gave out the Service Award which went to Barbara Nealon of Saint Francis Provisions in Kinsale, Co Cork. When asked what makes great services, she quipped just liking your customers. Green stars were also awarded to seven restaurants who have embraced a responsible and mindful approach to gastronomy. In a video address played during the ceremony, the guides international director, Gwendal Poullennec, described the evening as a true historic event for Irish hospitality. He added that it was a milestone that recognises not only exceptional cooking, but the people, places and passion that define Irish food culture and hospitality. Labour TD for Louth Ged Nash has accused the government of being "afraid to take on big business" to tackle the cost-of-living crisis. Deputy Nash was addressing the Dail during a motion which called on the State to recognise a cost-of-living crisis exists. The Labour TD supported the motion and said although Ireland has an "objectively" successful economy, "we cannot say with any great certainty that we have a successful society because with a successful economy must come a more equal society." "The experiences of far too many individuals and families across this country are undeserving of the kind of approach taken by the Government and the credit the Government gives itself for its great, successful economic model and how well the country is doing because the lived experience for far too many people is very remote from that sort of assessment and that sort of analysis," he said. Deputy Nash called on the Government to compel supermarkets to be "clearer on their margins" and to publish certain information to allow consumers to determine "whether they were gouging". He said former Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney had said he would introduce such legislation in 2023. However, Deputy Nash criticised the two reports that followed by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission which he said found that there was "nothing to see here". "The Minister in 2023 thought this was a good idea. Since then, I believe from the data I have read that the annual cost of grocery shopping has gone up by about 2,000 but wages have not." "Why can we not properly interrogate this? I do not like to conclude this, but it is quite clear that the Government is simply afraid to take on big business and corporate interests as its actions have shown," he said. Read Next: Special Education Teachers in Louth are "teaching in a cupboard" due to lack of space - TD Speaking on the same motion, Sinn Fein TD for Louth Ruairi O Murchu public discourse is dominated by "the cost of everything and how it has gone through the roof." "We talk to constituents and constituents come in to us. We hear the conversations in shops or the odd time when people are in bars or anywhere else. It is about the cost of everything and how it has gone through the roof. I do not think the Minister of State will be shocked to hear they are not generally impressed with the actions, or lack of action, of the Government," he said. Deputy O Murchu said he was thinking of worker in EuroGiant which is facing liquidation across its 77 stores, with 640 workers. He said there are "not enough safety nets for those who fall on worse times" and said those in "very good circumstances", which he said included developers and those in power in semi-State companies are "constantly looked after". In response, Noel Grealish, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture said "the best way out of poverty is through employment". "I recall the dark days of the 1980s when Ireland was scourged by joblessness, long-term unemployment and emigration. That is not the case today." Minister Grealish noted that the minimum wage had increased by 65 cents in the last budget to 14.15 and hour, making it the second highest in the EU, only behind Luxembourg. However he said there has to be a balance between a fair rate for low paid workers and one that will not have negative consequences for employers, but concluded he expects the minimum wage to continue to increase over the coming years. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme. Louth-based designer Caroline Duffy will take centre stage at this years ARC Fashion Show, as the much-loved event enters its second decade and returns to the RDS Concert Hall on Thursday 23 April. A long-standing supporter of the ARC Fashion Show, Louth artist and fashion designer Caroline Duffy will create one of the most emotional and defining moments of the night a powerful runway sequence featuring four ARC Angels, women who have experienced cancer or are currently undergoing treatment. Renowned for her distinctive design language, sculptural silhouettes and thoughtful storytelling, Caroline Duffy has built a reputation as one of Irelands most respected designers, with her work regularly showcased on national stages. A Drogheda native now based in Dundalk, Caroline is an NCAD graduate who spent two decades working internationally before returning to Ireland, where she developed a fashion business rooted in sustainable, hand-painted textile design. Read also: PHOTOS: Dundalk Musical Society enjoy great night out Her work has been featured in Brown Thomas Create, showcased in Paris during Irish Fashion Week. Caroline was also named as the winner of the coveted winner of the Irish Fashion and Accessories Designer category at the Guaranteed Irish Business Awards 2025. Now firmly established as Irelands most spectacular fashion event, the ARC Fashion Show will present collections from 30 Irish fashion and accessories designers, while raising vital funds for ARC Cancer Support Centres. The event is proudly supported by Main Sponsor Davy for the second year running, with all funds raised going directly to ARCs free psychological, emotional, educational, and practical support services for men, women and children affected by cancer. Produced and directed by Eddie Shanahan, the show will be staged on a giant catwalk with a dramatic electronic backdrop, lighting by internationally acclaimed designer Kevin Saunders and special effects by Visual X. The line-up includes AndTate by Sharon Hoey, August Night, Caroline Duffy, Celtic Tweed, Eadach by Sara ONeill, Emerald & Wax, Fauna with Capulet & Montague, FeRi, Sarah Foy, Helen Hayes, Noema James, Kindred of Ireland, Orla Langan, Magee 1866, Miss Shes Got Knits, Caroline Mitchell, Hazel Greene, Mona Swims, Monessa Joan, Moon+Mellow, Jack Murphy, Original Ireland, Silvia Ortega, Pearl Reddington, Jennifer Slattery, The Linen Shirt Company, Triona, Linda Wilson and Urban Aran. Collections will span daywear, leisurewear, and after-dark looks, with a strong emphasis on Irish craftsmanship from fine linens and luxurious tweeds to merino wool, alpaca, cashmere, organic cottons, and silks. The show will close with a spectacular finale by internationally acclaimed brand Kindred of Ireland. Speaking ahead of the event, Deirdre Grant, CEO of ARC Cancer Support Centres, said: We are delighted to partner once again with Davy to bring audiences the 11th edition of our ARC Fashion Show. It is a night of extraordinary Irish talent, generosity and compassion all in aid of our clients and their loved ones who rely on ARC when they need us most. The ARC Fashion Show takes place on Thursday, 23rd April at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin 4. Doors open at 7pm, with the show starting at 8pm sharp. Tickets cost 70 (including ticket agents fees) and are on sale now. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said the introduction of bus and cycle lanes will require greater levels of community engagement in future, following controversy around active travel plans on Cork citys northside. Mr Martin told The Echo there needed to be a review of community buy-in, particularly in communities with older populations, and greater dialogue with residents. The Taoiseachs comments come amidst protests against the removal of trees and parking spaces for the construction of a new cycleway in Farranree. The Knockpogue Avenue and Knockfree Avenue active travel scheme was unanimously approved by Cork City Council in April 2023. Cautioned Mr Martin said he had previously cautioned the National Transport Authority (NTA) regarding local engagement on matters like this proposal. Ive always said to the NTA that they need to be very careful of making sure that they have community buy-in in terms of BusConnects or active travel, and that needs to be reviewed, particularly where you have older populations, he said. Weve had many cycleways in certain parts of the city were now only using, people are losing parking for their cars, theres a health and safety issue coming out of their houses, elderly people in particular, theres a perception of insecurity there, and thats been a complaint from many residents. There needs to be a review in the sense of more dialogue on this, in my view, with community groups and with the residents, so well bring people along with the wider agenda. Positive aspects He said the positive aspects of active travel should not be overlooked, instancing the Marina as a particular success story in Cork. The work were doing in the greenway, for example, from the Marina down to Passage, thats a logical one, its off-street, we can do a lot from Ballincollig into the city centre as well, and so we should pick the low-hanging fruit and be sensible in terms of significant cycleways that we could create. Asked if he felt the Farranree scheme needed to be reconsidered, Mr Martin said he was talking more generally, noting there had also been uproar in Mahon around cycle lanes. Putting stuff in against peoples wishes without taking on board what people are saying, I think, is a challenge, and I think there needs to be far greater engagement with communities, he said. A Cork City Council spokesperson said consultation on the Knockpogue Knockfree active travel scheme had been extensive. It led to changes including the retention of more on-street parking for residents and engagement is ongoing, they said. Cork City Council has been ordered to pay 8,000 compensation to a woman whose application for a firefighting job was unsuccessful due to a discriminatory one size fits all beep fitness test for applicants. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator, Una Glazier-Farmer, found the council discriminated against Terezia Foott, 43, on the grounds of gender and age when applying the beep test for applicants for the full-time firefighter role. Ms Glazier-Farmer found the beep test, without the application of a normative table that considers age and gender in determining the final score, was both directly discriminatory towards Ms Foott and indirectly discriminatory against women, while giving younger candidates a distinct advantage. Ms Glazier-Farmer found Ms Foott was treated less favourably by Cork City Council as a prospective employee seeking access to employment, and discriminated against on the grounds of both age and gender. Ms Glazier-Farmer said that the absence of the consideration of age and gender in the beep test results is significant. She said it is not accepted that a one size fits all beep test is appropriate. Fitness test As part of the job application process, Ms Foott was required to undergo a fitness test on November 17, 2023. She passed every element of the test except the aerobic component. In her claim, Ms Foott relied on a male in his 20s as a comparator, albeit hypothetical, and this was not challenged by the city council. In her findings, Ms Glazier-Farmer said the city council openly acknowledged in its evidence that there was no separate standard for males and females, and that the same fitness requirements applied to all candidates. As part of her claim, Ms Foott contended that the practical effect of the discriminatory beep test had been to reduce the number of women progressing to fulltime roles. She maintained that the persistently low female intake for full-time firefighter roles was linked to the inflexible beep testing method. Ms Glazier-Farmer has ordered the city council to pay Ms Foott 4,000 compensation for discriminating against her on the grounds of gender, and an additional 4,000 for discriminating against her on the grounds of age. Beep test The test at issue, the beep test, involves running back and forth along a set distance in time with beeping sounds. The candidate must reach the end of the track before each beep. After every level, the beeps become closer together, requiring the candidate to run faster. Ms Foott told the hearing that the beep test is not accurate, but accepted it was accurate if the normative chart is applied. A part-time driver-mechanic, Ms Foott works in the part-time role as a retained firefighter and was applying for a full-time firefighter role with Cork City Council for the City Fire Brigade. Chief fire officer with Cork City Council, David Spillet, told the hearing that there is no separate standard for men and women, and the same fitness requirements apply to all candidates to ensure they are capable, fit, and healthy for operational duties. Mr Spillet rejected the suggestion that the test is discriminatory, reiterating that its purpose is to ensure a good level of fitness necessary for operational effectiveness. He stated that all firefighters, regardless of age or gender, must meet the same standard. Directions are awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions in a case where a member of staff at a Texaco service station in Cork was allegedly caught in a chokehold headlock by one raider as a second culprit ripped the till from the counter. The allegations were previously made by Detective Garda Eoghain OCallaghan when he objected to bail being granted to Mark Sheehan, aged 44, of Hazel Road, Togher, Cork. The accused was later, at Cork District Court, remanded in custody until February 19. Det Gda OCallaghan said: It is alleged that at around 8.30pm on Wednesday, two men entered Texaco Service Station, Model Farm Road, Cork. Both had their faces covered. They proceeded to go behind the shop counter and demanded that staff open the tills. One of them then proceeded to grab one of the staff members and performed a chokehold headlock. The other male ripped the till out and put it into a bag. Both of them then left the store on foot. Gardai later apprehended two men nearby, trying to discard clothing. They had the same clothing as the raiders, and 625 of cash was recovered from them. There is CCTV of the incident. Gardai are satisfied that Mark Sheehan is the male who performed the chokehold head-lock on the employee, and put him in fear. The accused was represented by solicitor Diarmuid Kelleher. Business leaders in Cork have welcomed revised expansion plans submitted for Penneys Patrick Street shop, calling for the development to happen quickly. The new proposal for the city centre premises is for a 6,000sq ft extension, significantly less than the 17,000sq ft originally envisaged when the company sought planning permission five years ago. The development would bring several long-vacant units back into use, including the former Jack & Jones shop on Patrick Street, along with a vacant unit at No 1 Cook St. These, along with the neighbouring Flying Tiger outlet, are set to be incorporated into the enlarged Penneys. The proposal makes provision for the store to remain open during the redevelopment project, which Penneys hopes to commence in the autumn, pending a successful planning outcome. Redrawing The new application is a substantial redrawing of what was originally planned when Penneys first sought permission to expand its premier Cork shop in 2021. That 60m project, which took two years to get through the planning system, was subsequently put on hold. At the time, Penneys said that planning delays and rising construction costs had impacted its decision. President of the Cork Business Association, Dave OBrien, told The Echo he hopes that the Pennys redevelopment project can now move along swiftly. What we want to see is a development happening, he said. OK, it mightnt be at the size that it was. But it is still going to be at a decent scale to improve that area. So, we would be very positive that it would be good for the city. But also, we just want it to happen quickly. Reacting to the revised Pennys proposal, CEO Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy, told The Echo it is at a prime location and a key focal point in the city centre. Footfall It would certainly help to grow footfall across the city, said Mr Healy. That always has a knock-on benefit then in terms of other businesses, retail and hospitality, in the city centre. It is very important the potential there is maximised. So, it is positive that the project is moving forward again. We will be anxious to see developments taking place and the area being brought back into full retail use. Fintan Costello, head of Penneys Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: Our plans are focused on creating a modern, transformed flagship store for our customers and colleagues, improving the shopping and instore experience, while bringing fresh energy and footfall to Cork city centre. The man who has been remanded in custody since November on charges in connection with the discovery of firearms and explosives at a house in Douglas was remanded in further custody until February 17. Judge Liz Healy remanded the accused man in custody at Cork District Court on the application of Sergeant Gearoid Davis. Paul Sheehan, aged 45, of Elm Drive, Shamrock Lawn, Douglas, Cork, appeared in court by video link from prison. Detective Garda Anthony Daly said in an earlier outline of the allegations against the accused: He was discovered in possession of illegally held firearms and ammunition on November 4, 2025, in suspicious circumstances at Applegreen Service Station in Mallow. Follow-up A follow-up search in the early hours of the following morning was conducted at his home address at Elm Drive, Shamrock Lawn, Douglas, and a large amount of firearm components, firearms, explosives, and equipment for manufacturing, altering, and producing firearms and ammunition was located. The Army Bomb Disposal Unit and members from the ballistics section of An Garda Siochana were deployed to attend, contain and make safe the scene. When he was searched at Applegreen Service Station on November 4, he was caught red-handed in possession of a .32 calibre Beretta semi-automatic pistol, a slide of a 9mm Glock 17 semi-automatic pistol, firearm components, ammunition, and a quantity of cocaine. There was evidence of a firearm having been discharged from within the vehicle." Search In the search at his home, a large amount of firearms, ammunition and explosive substances were found, including three pipe bomb bodies. Evidence of the manufacture and alteration of firearms and ammunition was also discovered. Paul Sheehan, who made certain admissions, admitted to possessing, manufacturing, and altering different firearm components. He faces charges contrary to the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990 and one under the Explosive Substances Act of 1883. The charges include possession of a .32 calibre Beretta semi-automatic pistol, a deactivated .38 calibre Smith & Wesson revolver, a slide for a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol and three pipe bomb bodies. Det Gda Daly said the case will be dealt with at the Special Criminal Court. The My Open Library service has been suspended at Douglas library with immediate effect following persistent antisocial behaviour. Cork City Council said it regrets withdrawing the service, which involves public libraries offering extended opening hours using a mix of staffed and unstaffed self-service hours. During unstaffed hours, members who are registered My Open Library members can access participating library branches from 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends. Services available during the unstaffed hours include: Returning and borrowing books, collecting reserved items, using public computers, wifi, printing, photocopying, study spaces, and room booking. The My Open Library service remains available in Bishopstown, Glanmire, and Blackpool libraries. A Cork City Council spokesperson told The Echo: My Open Library in Douglas is suspended until further notice due to persistent and unacceptable antisocial behaviour. Cork City Libraries regret the inconvenience this will cause to the many legitimate users of the My Open Library service in Douglas. This measure is taken in the interest of the safety of all users. Fine Gael councillor for the area Shane OCallaghan said antisocial behaviour is an issue in Douglas, and that replicating the high-visibility policing model in the city centre would make a huge difference. Im very sorry to hear that the library will be closed for those extra hours due to a small number of people who are basically ruining it for everybody else, its an awful shame. Im making enquiries on what the situation is, who the individuals responsible are, and if anything can be done to make sure they are not permitted near the library so it can be reopened fully, because its not acceptable that a small cohort of people are ruining a good service. A permanent high-visibility policing plan, launched in November 2025, introduced 48 additional gardai to Cork city centre to combat antisocial behaviour, drug dealing, shoplifting, and public order issues. Mr OCallaghan said this should be extended to the suburbs too: Garda visibility, gardai walking around on the beat, makes a huge difference, particularly in terms of deterrence. Its had a massive positive impact in the city centre, and it should be replicated across other parts of the city like Douglas village. An off-duty prison officer was set upon in a late-night incident in Cork city centre and now a 51-year-old man was jailed for nine months for attempted robbery. Jeremiah Foley asked Judge John King, through his solicitor Eddie Burke, to suspend a portion of the sentence. Judge King refused this application because of what he described as the recidivist nature of the defendants offending. The judge also noted the traumatic effect that this kind of offence could have on a victim and the fact that Foleys previous convictions included six robberies. Sergeant Aisling Murphy said the 28-year-old prison officer knew the assailant Jeremiah (Jerry) Foley, although Mr Burke said Foley did not know the injured party and did not know he was a prison officer. Mr Burke said that irrespective of that, Foley acknowledged that he should not have behaved in the manner in which he did. The incident occurred at 1.20am where the prison officer was pushed against a wall, and the defendant forcibly searched his pockets, put him in fear, and took his phone. Mr Burke said: He pleaded guilty and apologises. He had no idea who this man was. He should not have behaved in this manner, no matter who he was. Alcohol has been a scourge in his life. He never coped with the grief of the loss of a child in an accident. He is not proud of his past. He has on occasions tried to sort out his difficulties with alcohol but possibly slips due to homelessness. Foley, with an address at 12 Castlepark, Ballincollig, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to the charge of attempted robbery on August 31, 2025, at Tobin St, Cork. Sgt Murphy said he has 32 previous convictions, including six for robbery, two for burglary and 48 for theft. Detective Garda Orla Moriarty testified at Cork District Court that the injured party hoped that telling the assailant that he was a prison officer would deter him from his actions but unfortunately it did not have any deterrent effect. He was looking for the injured partys phone and wallet. He (the injured party) told him he was an off-duty prison officer hoping this would deter him but it did not have the desired effect, Det Garda Moriarty said. A county councillor and members of a local community organisation simply gave up counting the number of potholes on a small section of road in East Cork when they reached 250. Independent councillor John Buckley said he had been asked by community representatives in Dungourney to look at the state of the L7628 road from the village to Billberry Cross. I walked a section of it with the locals, and we simply gave up counting the potholes when we reached 250, he said. He made the statement at a meeting of the East Cork Municipal District Council, and it prompted Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty to add that its in a really shocking state". The proliferation of potholes in the region is getting worse, despite the efforts of county council crews to fix them, the council heard, with snow, ice, and rainfall all exacerbating the problem. Council engineers said patching is not a viable solution for the Dungourney road, with part of it requiring a complete overlay. They said they will examine what works can be carried out Mr Buckley said Hillside Rd, Lower Aghada, needs major repairs as it is crumbling due to rainfall damage. He was told the councils roads operations and area services is seeking funding to advance surface water drainage works under the Climate Change Adaption and Resilience Works Programme. Once the necessary drainage works are completed, the road will then be considered for resurfacing in future roads programmes, he explained. Meanwhile, Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty said that a number of roads are pitted with potholes in the Ballymacoda area, especially at the townlands of Ballyfleming, Gortavella, and Curragheen, all of which require urgent attention. Council engineers acknowledged the state of these roads and said they will carry out repairs on them as soon as possible. Fianna Fail councillor Ann Marie Ahern asked that Goulds Hill, Killeagh, be addressed as it is in a poor state having not been resurfaced for many years. Engineers agreed that it falls under the category for resurfacing under the Governments Severe Weather Programme but will only be done if funding is released for it. East Cork senior executive engineer Dave Clarke said a number of roads damaged by the severe weather had previously been repaired in the region using this grant aid, but how many more will be completed depends on the next round of funding. A Cork senator has described as regrettable the events leading to the resignation of UK prime minister Keir Starmers chief of staff, Macroom native Morgan McSweeney. Mr McSweeney, a long-time advisor to Mr Starmer, quit his position as the PMs closest aide on Sunday, amidst growing anger at his role in the appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States. The Macroom mans position had become increasingly untenable following the release of emails showing the extent of Mr Mandelsons ongoing friendship with convicted child abuser and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. In a statement, Mr McSweeney said he took full responsibility for advising Mr Starmer to appoint Mr Mandelson, who had damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient ... In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside, he said. Mr McSweeney, the son of Macroom-based accountant Tim McSweeney and his wife Carmel, has lived in the UK since he moved there in 1994 at the age of 17. Fine Gael's Eileen Lynch said 'there's always a way back in politics'. File picture. Macroom-based Fine Gael senator Eileen Lynch said Mr McSweeney had played a huge role in Mr Starmers ascension to the leadership of the British Labour Party, and the events leading to his resignation were regrettable. Ms Lynch said while she did not know Mr McSweeney, she had great respect for his parents, and felt he could yet return to frontline politics. I think theres always a way back in politics, she said. But thats politics. What is ultimately most important is to keep in mind the women and girls so horribly abused by Jeffrey Epstein. Mr McSweeneys resignation was followed on Monday by that of Downing St communications head Tim Allan. It remains to be seen whether the political pressure on Mr Starmer will abate. Kinsale restaurant St Francis Provisions was among the Irish winners celebrated at the Michelin Guide Ceremony 2026, held at the Convention Centre Dublin on Monday night. Barbara Nealon, owner and general manager of the popular Cork restaurant, received the Michelin Service Award, which recognises front-of-house teams for exceptional service and professionalism. The award places a spotlight on hospitality as well as food, and underlines Corks reputation for warm, personal dining experiences. St Francis Provisions, located in the heart of Kinsale, was praised by Michelin inspectors for its relaxed yet highly professional approach to service. Ms Nealon has previously said the key to great hospitality is simple, joking that it comes down to liking your customers. The award was announced as part of the launch of the Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2026, with this years ceremony marking the first time the prestigious event has been hosted in Ireland since the guide began in 1974. Two Irish restaurants also received their first Michelin stars on the night. In Dublin, Forest Avenue was promoted to one-star status, with Michelin recognising chef John Wyers pared-back cooking style that allows high-quality ingredients to take centre stage. In Galway, The Pullman was also awarded its first Michelin star. Owned by Angelo Vagiotis former chef de cuisine in Terre in Castlemartyr in Cork the restaurant is located in two original Orient Express train carriages on the grounds of Glenlo Abbey Hotel. Inspectors highlighted its use of excellent Irish produce, served in a distinctive and luxurious setting. While the Michelin Guide covers Great Britain and Ireland, Irish restaurants featured strongly at this years Dublin ceremony. Dublin also recorded several new Bib Gourmand awards earlier this month, reflecting a strong year for value-led dining alongside fine restaurants. International director of the Michelin Guides, Gwendal Poullennec, said the 2026 selection reflected the resilience of the hospitality sector during a challenging period. I am delighted that this has been yet another excellent year for our Great Britain & Ireland Guide, he said. In a year filled with challenges and turbulence in the industry, chefs and restaurateurs have once again shown their admirable resilience and innovation. The Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2026 features 1,210 recommended restaurants in total, including 192 with one Michelin star. The full restaurant and hotel selections are available on the Michelin Guide website and app. Let the good times roll, as Cork Cocktail Week is set to make its debut in the city, bringing you the dreamiest cocktails, inclusive mocktails, and even delicious food deals. Get ready to shake, stir, and sip your way through the the event, which runs from Friday, February 20 to Sunday, March 1. Cork will transform a dark and gloomy time of year into a vibrant playground for cocktail enthusiasts, offering a blend of experiences, unlimited discounts, and exclusive deals. Its a big food and drink celebration, and there are lots of reasons why you should get involved. The 10-day extravaganza will feature some of the citys most renowned restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs, each bringing their unique flair to the celebration. Whether youre a cocktail connoisseur or a casual sipper, theres something for your entire party to enjoy. And if last years summer event in Dublin is anything to go by, Cocktail Week will be big news for Corks hospitality economy. The Dublin event saw 5,216 wristbands sold across 38 participating venues, who in turn reported up to 50% sales increases across their whole cocktail menus. Furthermore, 82% of Cocktail Week customers stated the event improved their perception of Dublins hospitality businesses overall. How to unlock the magic Anyone with a Cork Cocktail Week wristband will be able to take advantage of the several delicious discounts that will be available. All venues will offer cocktails from 7 and some will have discounts on food bills, two-for-one drinks and more. The most exciting part though? Discovering each venues signature cocktail exclusively for the events wristband wearers. Grab a Great Gatsby from the Monk Cocktail Bar, The Passion-Zoo from The Black Dog, or how about the Midnight Margarita from Coqbull a must-try for margs connoisseurs. With fun flavours and mixes for everyone across all venues, youll be spoiled for choice as you head into the local bars. For designated drivers and those who just fancy something a little softer, theres great news. New to the nationwide event for 2026, visitors can enjoy a delicious signature mocktail option in each venue, too. Pinky Promise at Moxy, a Wise Choices at Costigans Pub, or manifest summer vibes with a Watermelon Entice from Aye. Either way, sober partygoers wont have to stick to lemonade. If youre quick, you can take advantage of the early bird wristbands priced from 9.95 plus a booking fee, advance tickets are 12.95 plus booking fee, and the final release is priced at 14.95 with booking fee. There is also a discount for groups of four or more, with tickets just 6.95 each, plus booking fee. All wristbands can be purchased online at corkcocktailweek.com Corks city centre is thriving and the venues signed up for this debut event are fan favourites - and its not just cocktails where visitors will save. The River Club is offering 15% off all food and drinks, Clancys Cork are offering a Burger & Cocktail deal for 17, and you can unlock 10% off food at the Moxy, too. Just flash that wristband! Cork Business Association are the event partners of the experience, and president, Dave OBrien, is thrilled. Cork Cocktail Week perfectly reflects the vibrant and ever-evolving cocktail scene in our city, he said. The level of talent, creativity and passion among the teams behind the bar is exceptional, and this event is a brilliant opportunity to showcase that. With 31 outstanding bars participating across the city centre, there is a fantastic mix of venues for people to explore and enjoy. Cork Business Association is delighted to be associated with an initiative that supports our hospitality sector, and I would encourage everyone to pick up a wristband, get out into the city and show their support for this incredible industry. Marketing firm, M.ad Agency, are responsible for several Cocktail Week events across the country, and director Alice Christison, is looking forward to bringing the celebration to the city of Cork for the first time. She said: After the successes of Dublin Cocktail Week that we ran last summer, Im thrilled to bring all the fun to Cork for its debut event. Its a truly fantastic opportunity to celebrate the citys incredible bars and restaurants while offering locals and visitors an unforgettable experience. I just know it will be hugely popular and so much fun for everyone. For more information on Cork Cocktail Week and to purchase tickets, visit corkcocktailweek.com @CorkCocktailWeek #CorkCocktailWeek (Photo: Vatican News/Cardinale Krajewski)Some of the medicine and generators donated by Pope Leo XIV to civilians in Ukraine. Pope Leo XIV has arranged for the delivery of 80 electricity generators, along with medicine and food supplies, to Ukraine. His move came after yet another massive attack by the Russian army on Ukrainian cities, and Bishop Jan Sobilo, Auxiliary Bishop of the KharkivZaporizhzhia Diocese, spoke about this difficult night and the daily reality of life under shelling, Vatican News reports. During the night of Feb. 56 and in the early morning hours, the Russian army once again launched a large-scale strike on various populated areas across Ukraine. Among the hardest-hit regions was Zaporizhzhia. Numerous residential buildings were damaged. A 14-year-old boy and a man were injured. Tragically, a married couple was killeda 49-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman. In an interview with Vatican News, the Auxiliary Bishop Jan Sobilo described the situation following this particularly heavy night of shelling. He also speaks about the daily life of a city that continues to endure amid air-raid sirens, cold temperatures, and the lack of electricity and heating. The appeal for Ukraine voiced by the Pope at the General Audience on Wednesday, Feb. 4, took the form of concrete charity in response to the "consequences of the bombings which," as Pope Leo XIV said, "have once again begun to strike energy infrastructure." Speaking in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall, the Pope also expressed his gratitude for the many initiatives of solidarity that have emerged in numerous dioceses, especially in Poland. That appeal has now been translated into action through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, which, at the Pope's request, has sent three lorries carrying 80 electricity generators to the country. The vehicles departed from the Basilica of Saint Sophia in Rome, the church of Ukrainians in Italy, and have already reached their destinations in Fastiv and Kyiv, areas that have been particularly affected by recent attacks, Vatican News reported. Military operations also took place overnight in Odessa and Kharkiv, where a 10-year-old child lost his life. "War shows no mercy, not even towards the youngest. In this climate of fear and violence, every gesture of solidarity offers a moment of relief to those who have been living with the trauma of conflict for four years," Vatican News commented. Alongside the generators, thousands of medicines have been sent to Ukraine, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, supplements, and melatonin, which is especially in demand as it helps people sleep amid ongoing fear and constant stress. The EU could take "interim measures" against WhatsApp as it investigates AI providers' access to the app. On Monday, the EU's regulatory arm announced its "preliminary view" that Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, violated antitrust laws by blocking third-party AI assistants from operating on WhatsApp. The European Commission's is concerned that Meta's actions will limit competitors from entering the AI assistant market. "We must protect effective competition in this vibrant field, which means we cannot allow dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage," Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition said in a statement. Ribera continued: "AI markets are developing at rapid pace, so we also need to be swift in our action. That is why we are considering quickly imposing interim measures on Meta, to preserve access for competitors to WhatsApp while the investigation is ongoing, and avoid Metas new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue arose in October when Meta announced updates to its WhatsApp Business Solution Terms. According to the European Commission, the January 15 update would "effectively" make Meta AI the only AI assistant available on WhatsApp. The regulatory agency opened an investigation into the matter on December 4. Today's update stands as a warning to Meta that the European Commission initially believes the company has violated antitrust regulation. A final decision is still to come. It also gave Meta a chance to respond to the allegations which it swiftly did. "The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene in the WhatsApp Business API," a Meta spokesperson told Reuters. "There are many AI options and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships." Elon Musk says SpaceX has shifted its near-term priorities from Mars settlement plans to building what he called a self-growing city on the Moon, arguing the lunar target is faster and more achievable. In a post on X , Musk claims the company could complete this in less than 10 years, while doing the same on Mars would take over 20 years. This marks a major shift for the aerospace company, as Musk points out that the logistics of first completing a proof of concept on the moon are easier with respect to launch windows and proximity to Earth. The SpaceX founder is notorious for promising optimistic timelines that never come to pass, and said in 2017 that a base on Mars would be ready for its first settlers as early as 2024. In subsequent replies to other posts Musk predicted "Mars will start in 5 or 6 years, so will be done parallel with the Moon, but the Moon will be the initial focus." He also said a manned Mars flight might happen in 2031 . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Early last year Musk said in a post on X that SpaceX would be going "straight to Mars" and that "the Moon is a distraction." This was in response to Space industry analyst Peter Hague pointing out that among other considerations, lunar regolith, a material found on the surface of the moon, is about 45 percent oxygen. In 2023 NASA proved this oxygen could be extracted , which would yield enormous payload savings as opposed to shipping liquid oxygen between Earth and Mars. Bianca Censori has spoken out for the first time about the viral Venice boat incident involving her and husband Kanye West, saying nothing sexual happened despite widespread public belief. In a new interview with Vanity Fair, the 31-year-old addressed the August 2023 moment that quickly spread online and left her feeling deeply embarrassed. Photos taken by paparazzi showed Censori and West riding a water taxi in Venice, Italy. The images appeared to show Censori engaging in a sexual act while West sat with his pants down. The photos and video circulated fast, leading to public outrage and intense online speculation. Censori said she understood how the images looked to people watching from the outside. However, she strongly denied the claims. According to PageSix, she explained that she was simply kneeling on a stool and resting her head on West's lap as he sat on the back of the boat. She added that her aunt was also on board at the time, saying she would never behave that way in front of her. "Yes," Censori said when asked if she knew what people thought happened. She then made it clear that the rumors were not true. "It was the first time I was really embarrassed," she said, adding that her feelings were especially tied to thinking about her father. Bianca Censori breaks silence on naughty Venice boat ride with Kanye West https://t.co/jlFHzAE234 pic.twitter.com/awpx2NaucI Page Six (@PageSix) February 6, 2026 Venice Boat Firm Cuts Ties With Kanye West The incident became even more controversial because West's exposed backside was visible in several photos. While Censori denied anything sexual occurred, the damage was already done. The moment went viral worldwide and brought unwanted attention to her personal life. After the incident, the couple was banned for life by Venezia Turismo Motoscafi, the boat company that rented them the water taxi, Complex reported. In a statement released in September 2023, the company said the driver did not witness any inappropriate behavior. The company also noted that a third person on board blocked the driver's view of the back of the boat. Even so, the company said it wanted no association with the situation and barred the couple from using its services again. At the time, reports also claimed local police reviewed the incident as a possible case of public indecency after receiving complaints. It remains unclear whether any formal punishment was ever issued. Censori said the experience taught her a hard lesson about life in the public eye. She explained that images of her are shared and judged without her control. Over time, she said, she has learned to care less about public opinion as she continues to grow and understand herself better. Thomas Williams, the father of longtime TV host Wendy Williams, has died at the age of 94. His death comes at a difficult time for the Williams family as Wendy continues to fight a court-ordered guardianship that limits her freedom and personal decisions. The news was shared on Sunday, Feb. 8, by journalist Alex Finnie, Wendy's niece and Thomas' granddaughter. In an emotional Instagram tribute, Finnie posted a video montage of family photos set to Stevie Wonder's song "As." She opened her caption with the lyric, "I'll be loving you always," before confirming her grandfather's passing, DailyMail reported. "It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share after 94 years of extraordinary love, strength, brilliance, and wisdom, my grandfather Thomas D. Williams has passed," Finnie wrote. She added that she believes he is now reunited with his late wife, Shirley Williams, who died in 2020 at age 85. Wendy Williams dad, Thomas, has sadly passed away at 94, a week before his 95th birthday He was one of the first Black people to become a school principal in New Jersey in 1969. pic.twitter.com/OloNX4qQVn My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) February 8, 2026 Read more: Wendy Williams Worried Her Guardian Is Retaliating by Cutting Off Access to Friends and Bodyguard Wendy Williams Continues Guardianship Fight Wendy confirmed her mother's passing on "The Wendy Williams Show" at the time, saying she died "beautifully and peacefully" while surrounded by love. Finnie remembered Thomas as a deeply respected man who made a lasting impact on those around him. According to People, she described him as "an author, educator and keeper of historical facts," adding that he gave his time and care to both his family and the wider community. "Papa poured into both family and community," she wrote. "I miss him tremendously." Wendy Williams, 61, was last seen publicly with her father in Miami in February 2025, when the family gathered to celebrate his 94th birthday. That visit was especially meaningful, as Wendy had earlier expressed fear that she might not be allowed to see him due to her guardianship. "My dad is going to be 94 next month. I don't know if I'm able to fly to Miami to say happy birthday to my dad," Wendy said during a tearful January 2025 interview on "The Breakfast Club." She claimed her legal guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, might not approve the trip. Wendy has repeatedly denied claims that she is cognitively impaired and continues to seek an end to the guardianship, which was put in place in 2022. Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High near 55F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph.. Tonight Considerable clouds this evening. Some decrease in clouds late. Low around 30F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. More than three-quarters of calves on one dairy farm failed to absorb enough immunity from colostrum despite it testing as high quality according to a newly published case report. The findings highlight a hidden but costly issue behind calf scours, with researchers warning that relying on colostrum quality alone can leave calves dangerously exposed to disease. The report, published in Vet Record, examined a seasonal-calving dairy herd in Northern Ireland where over 75% of calves tested showed inadequate passive transfer, meaning they did not absorb enough protective antibodies after birth. This was despite colostrum consistently meeting the recommended minimum of 22% Brix. All calves on the unit later developed scours. Authored by Dr Ryan Davies of Veterinary Technical Consulting Ltd and Dr Katie Denholm of the University of Glasgow, the case study stresses the importance of testing calves directly using blood samples taken between 24 hours and seven days of age. The authors say this approach provides a far clearer picture of immunity than colostrum testing alone. The findings are particularly relevant for farms investing in dry cow vaccination programmes, as calves will not benefit from vaccine-derived antibodies if absorption fails. Dr Davies said misconceptions around vaccination and colostrum management are common. It can often be a case of farmers jabbing the dry cows and thinking the job is done, he said. When they then see diarrhoea in calves, they assume the vaccine isnt working. However, he said testing on the case study farm showed the opposite. As the case study in our paper has shown, that wasnt the case at all, he said. Calves were still getting scours caused by Bovine rotavirus A (BRV-A) genotype G6P11, despite being vaccinated, as a result of inadequate colostrum management protocols. Analysis confirmed that colostrum contained sufficient protective antibodies, demonstrating successful vaccine efficacy. We know this because when the colostrum was tested it had sufficient protective antibodies to BRV-A, Dr Davies said. However, on-farm practices were not enabling optimal transfer of immunity in many calves. On the unit studied, 81% of calves had serum total protein levels below 5.2 g/dL, indicating poor or only fair passive transfer. Delayed feeding linked to limited colostrum pasteuriser capacity and wide variation in colostrum quality between cows were identified as major contributing factors. Colostrum Brix readings ranged from 20% to 30%, increasing inconsistency in antibody delivery. The findings suggest the issue may be far more widespread, supporting earlier research from the Royal Veterinary College which found failure of passive transfer in more than a quarter of calves across 91 UK herds. In response, the Northern Irish farm made several changes, including feeding all calves within 30 minutes of birth. Colostrum was enriched using whole bovine colostrum powder to standardise quality at 30% Brix. Extended colostrum feeding was also introduced for the first 10 days of life. Dr Denholm said meeting minimum thresholds alone may not be sufficient. While 22% Brix is the minimum requirement, calves benefit from 300 g of IgG and more where multiple feeds are given to meet passive immunity targets, she said. She added that extended colostrum or transition milk feeding can support gut health even after antibody absorption declines. Both vets warned that hygiene is critical when collecting, storing and feeding colostrum. Bacteria interferes with IgG absorption, so if your hygiene is poor, you wont see the benefits of colostrum or extended feeding, Dr Davies said. Its essential to scrub and clean all equipment with hot water, brushes and detergents. Dr Denholm said there is no single solution that suits every farm. Its not just about quality timing, volume, cleanliness, cow health, speed of collection and storage conditions all play a role, she said. A weakness in any part of the chain can undermine the whole system. She said relatively simple changes could prevent significant losses. Simple adjustments such as reviewing collection practices, checking feeding speed and volumes, logging timings, or re-evaluating storage methods could make the difference between successful passive transfer and costly disease outbreaks, she said. The authors said early testing and tailored protocols could help farms prevent scours, protect calf health and avoid the significant financial and welfare costs associated with disease outbreaks. Farmers across the UK are reaching breaking point as new research shows mental wellbeing has fallen to its lowest level in four years. The warning comes as the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures reveal that 47 suicides were registered in England and Wales among people working in farming and agriculture during 2024, highlighting the growing crisis facing rural communities. The Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) says the sector is grappling with what it describes as the industrys biggest hidden problem, with suicide prevention now a central focus for its annual Mind Your Head campaign. Now in its ninth year, Mind Your Head week will run from 913 February 2026, calling on farmers, rural organisations, colleges and Young Farmers Clubs to start potentially life-saving conversations and strengthen support networks across the countryside. Stephanie Berkeley, Manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, said awareness around mental health has improved in recent years, but suicide prevention work has not progressed far enough. Over the past nine years, we have made significant strides in raising awareness and improving education around mental health. However, when it comes to suicide prevention, progress has been far more limited, she said. The charitys latest findings are based on a survey of 765 farmers across the UK, using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), a widely recognised national measure of positive mental health. Results show that overall wellbeing in the farming community continues to lag behind that of the wider UK population. Mental wellbeing among farmers aged over 40 has dropped to a four-year low, with the sharpest decline seen among those aged 61 and over historically considered one of the most resilient groups in agriculture. Until recently, this age bracket consistently reported wellbeing levels above the UK average, but the charity warns that resilience is now under severe strain. Ms Berkeley pointed to the unique pressures facing farming families, including isolation, financial uncertainty, long working hours and generational expectations. Farming brings a unique set of pressures Conversations about suicide in rural communities require approaches that are real, relatable and rooted in lived experience, she said. She added that while rural support groups and charities provide vital help, there remains a significant lack of suicide prevention training tailored specifically to agricultural life. Without training designed for the realities of agricultural life, we risk leaving those most vulnerable without the tools they need to recognise warning signs and intervene effectively, she said. The renewed focus on prevention comes as rural organisations across the UK strengthen their own strategies, including Scottish charity RSABI appointing its first Suicide Prevention Lead and Northern Irelands Rural Support recruiting a dedicated officer. The issue was also recognised at a recent roundtable of leading farming support charities attended by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. As part of the Royal Foundations National Suicide Prevention Network a four-nations initiative launched on World Mental Health Day the Farm Safety Foundation will use this years campaign to drive collaboration, innovation and improved access to support. During the week, the charity will launch a new Suicide Awareness and Prevention eLearning module, developed with Baton of Hope and funded by the Royal Foundation. The training will be tailored specifically to farming audiences, offering practical guidance on recognising warning signs, using supportive language and creating simple safety plans, with clear signposting to specialist help available within the sector. Karen Hodgson, associate director at the Royal Foundation, said the partnership demonstrates the importance of reaching communities most at risk. It is great to see collaboration in action bringing innovative approaches to suicide prevention and reaching communities that need it most, she said. This work will make a real difference to those living and working in rural communities across the UK. The campaign will also share personal stories from across farming and release a new film bringing together voices of those affected by suicide. This will be a campaign about education, resilience and compassion but above all, it will be about hope and saving lives, Ms Berkeley said. More information about Mind Your Head week is available via Yellow Wellies, with supporters encouraged to follow the hashtag #MindYourHead online. Scottish farmers were promised long-term funding stability and fresh investment as the First Minister addressed the NFU Scotland AGM in Glasgow. In a keynote speech to farmers and rural stakeholders, John Swinney pledged there would be no sudden funding shocks or cliff edges that could undermine confidence, planning or investment in farming and crofting. One of the biggest announcements was 14.25 million for a second round of the Future Farm Investment Scheme, aimed at helping more farms and crofts modernise, improve efficiency and invest in climate-smart technologies. This investment reflects the need for practical, investable solutions that allow farmers and crofters to move forward with confidence, the First Minister said. It supports a sector that is already delivering for Scotlands economy, environment and food security. He also confirmed that at least 70% of future agricultural funding will continue to be delivered through direct payments, alongside a period of policy certainty through to 2030 and beyond. The commitments come at a time when many businesses are seeking clarity and stability as agriculture adapts to new support frameworks and mounting economic pressures. Alongside on-farm investment, the First Minister announced 9 million in capital funding for Scotlands food and drink sector. The support is intended to strengthen domestic processing capacity, improve supply chain resilience and help Scottish produce reach markets while adding value at home. Wildlife management was also addressed, with a 1 million investment confirmed for Scotlands Sea Eagle Management Scheme. The funding will support mitigation measures and advice for farmers and crofters in affected areas, responding to concerns about the impacts of species management on livestock enterprises. Scottish farming and crofting are central to our rural economy, our food system and our climate ambitions, Mr Swinney said. He stressed the need for policies shaped by those working on the ground. That is why it is vital that policy development continues to be shaped by engagement with those on the ground, and by measures that support both environmental outcomes and viable businesses, he said. NFUS President Andrew Connon welcomed the announcements, saying they reflected priorities long raised by the industry. Todays announcements send a strong signal that the voice of farmers and crofters is being heard, he said. He said predictability and targeted investment were essential for the future of the sector. Predictability in funding, targeted capital support and a more practical approach to species management are all essential building blocks for a profitable and resilient future for Scottish agriculture, he said. However, Mr Connon added that continued direct support beyond the current horizon remained vital. This level of alignment gives our members greater confidence to invest, plan ahead and continue delivering for rural communities and the wider economy, he said, while urging direct support to remain in place until 2030 and beyond. The First Minister also highlighted the sectors wider importance, noting agriculture underpins Scotlands 19 billion food and drink industry and supports around 130,000 jobs across the country. The NFU Scotland AGM brings together farmers, crofters and policymakers each year to debate the industrys future, with a focus on profitability, sustainability and resilience. The funding commitments set out in Glasgow are expected to play a key role in shaping business confidence and rural stability as Scottish agriculture looks towards the next decade. Farmers could face a growing wave of invasive pests as rising temperatures make the UK more hospitable to new species, the Met Office has warned. The organisation said warmer conditions are increasing the chances of harmful insects surviving, spreading and becoming established, posing serious risks to agriculture and forestry. The warning comes after 2025 was confirmed as the warmest year on record in the UK, with an annual average temperature of 10.09C the highest in a series dating back to 1884. It was also only the second year in which the UKs average temperature exceeded 10C, underlining the scale of recent climate change. Dr Debbie Hemming, a Met Office scientist leading research into the links between climate and nature, said shifting conditions are already changing where pests can thrive. With the warmer climate and recent extreme events, many species are shifting their ranges into locations previously too cold, she said. This includes pests that were previously unable to survive in the UK. She warned that many new arrivals pose significant risks to farming, forestry and natural habitats. As our climate changes, we can expect further new arrivals, she added. To help experts respond, Met Office scientists have developed the UK Climate-Pest Risk web tool in collaboration with Defras plant health risk and horizon scanning team. The tool helps assess which pests are most likely to survive under future UK climate conditions and supports the development of effective prevention and management plans. It currently covers nine high-risk insect pests affecting agriculture and forestry, including the Colorado potato beetle, peach potato aphid and the brown marmorated stink bug. The Met Office said the spread of such pests could increase crop losses, add pressure on control costs and create new challenges for growers and land managers. One recent success highlighted was the targeted eradication of the Colorado beetle a serious threat to potato crops from the UK. Dr Hemming said climate modelling can play a key role in strengthening resilience. Modelling and mapping the climate sensitivities of high-risk pest species, such as Colorado beetle, helps to inform the effective management actions that are already building resilience in our agriculture and forestry sectors to emerging pests, she said. The Met Office said pest threats are among the growing issues linked to the twin pressures of climate change and biodiversity loss. These challenges are being discussed this week at the twelfth annual session of IPBES, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, taking place in Manchester. Met Office scientists are attending the meeting to strengthen links with biodiversity experts and highlight the need to tackle the climate and nature crises together. The organisation said early monitoring, rapid action and stronger collaboration will be crucial in protecting farming, forestry and ecosystems as the UK continues to warm. Growers are also being encouraged to stay alert for unusual pest sightings and report concerns promptly, as new species increasingly threaten to take hold. Wales suckler cow herds are facing a steep and sustained decline, prompting NFU Cymru to call for urgent action to secure the future of Welsh beef production. The warning comes as new figures show the number of suckler herds in Wales has fallen by nearly 40% over the past two decades, raising concerns about the long-term viability of a sector central to rural communities and landscapes. NFU Cymru highlighted the issue at a Celebration of Welsh Beef event held at chef Bryn Williams Porth Eirias restaurant in Colwyn Bay on Friday 6 February. The event marked the launch of the unions new report, Welsh Suckler Beef Production: Addressing Decline and Securing a Sustainable Future, developed by its Livestock and Less Favoured Area boards. The report examines the outlook for Welsh suckler beef production and sets out recommendations aimed at halting decline while protecting the economic, environmental, social and cultural benefits the sector delivers. Suckler cow herds have been a defining feature of Welsh farming for centuries, particularly in Less Favoured Areas where farming options are limited. NFU Cymru says these systems play a vital role in habitat management, supporting biodiversity, reducing wildfire risk and converting grass and natural rainfall into high-quality protein. Wales is currently home to around 6,000 suckler cow herds, contributing 390m to the economy and accounting for about 18.6% of total agricultural output. However, herd numbers have dropped from 10,816 in 2004 to 6,595 in 2023, with rising production costs and tight margins placing increasing pressure on family-run businesses. The report also highlights the added burden of bovine TB and what the union describes as a heavily regulated operating environment, which it says disproportionately affects smaller farms. Despite these challenges, NFU Cymru points to strong consumer demand for Welsh beef, alongside increasing levels of UK beef imports, as a sign that opportunities remain if the right support is put in place. The union is calling on the next Welsh government to introduce a targeted suckler herd support package to halt decline and rebuild critical mass within the sector. It also wants a wider review of policy and regulation to ensure measures actively support suckler producers and the wider beef supply chain. NFU Cymru is further urging ministers to commit to a ring-fenced farming budget of more than 500m a year, with at least 70% allocated to the universal layer of the Sustainable Farming Scheme to provide stability for farm businesses. The Colwyn Bay event brought together politicians, supply chain representatives and farmers featured as case studies in the report, linking food production directly with the plate. Guests were served a bespoke menu celebrating Welsh beef, showcasing the flavour and versatility of pedigree Welsh Black cattle. Llanuwchllyn farmer Rhodri Jones, who supplies Welsh Black beef to Bryn Williams restaurants, spoke about the importance of suckler herds to upland farms, both as part of farming heritage and for managing land sustainably. Host Bryn Williams highlighted the value of provenance, noting the growing demand among diners for locally sourced food and the high eating quality of PGI Welsh Beef. NFU Cymru Livestock Board Chairman Rob Lewis said suckler herds remain fundamental to Welsh farming identity. Suckler cows are an intrinsic part of Welsh livestock farming and form an important part of our culture and heritage, he said. He acknowledged the long-term decline in herd numbers across Wales and Britain but said demand offered grounds for confidence. The fact that demand both at home and abroad remains high means that there are plenty of reasons for optimism, he said. Mr Lewis added that Wales climate, natural resources and farming expertise put the sector in a strong position for sustainable beef production in the future. With focussed support, fit-for-purpose policies and a regulatory backdrop that works with these businesses, Wales suckler herd can continue to be a success story for our environment, economy and culture, he said. He also thanked Bryn Williams and his team for helping to showcase the end result of Welsh farming. Its been a fantastic spectacle in showcasing the outstanding product that Wales farmers bring to the table, he said. NFU Cymru said decisions taken by the next Welsh government will be critical in determining whether Wales suckler cow sector can stabilise and thrive for future generations. Wynnstay has reported a rise in underlying profits during a year of operational change, as the agricultural supplies and services group pushed ahead with a major restructuring programme. The Powys-based company said it enters the new financial year with strong operational capability and a robust balance sheet, despite a fall in statutory profit. For the year ended 31 October, Wynnstay reported pretax profit of 3.5 million, down 15% on the previous year. However, adjusted pretax profit rose 21% to 9.2 million, reflecting improved underlying performance. Revenue slipped 4.8% to 583.4 million, but the company said tighter cost control helped protect margins during a challenging trading period. Wynnstay said the year marked an important step forward under Project Genesis, its programme aimed at simplifying operations, improving efficiency and strengthening execution across the business. Through Project Genesis, we set out to reshape the foundations of the business by simplifying our structures, removing inefficiencies, strengthening commercial execution, and creating a more integrated and scalable operating model, the company said. The group proposed a higher dividend, with a final payment of 12.1p per share, taking the full-year payout to 17.8p. Early trading in the new financial year is said to be in line with expectations, with the focus remaining on further margin improvement and efficiency gains. The company also confirmed Chair Steve Ellwood will step down at the annual general meeting on 24 March, with Senior Independent Director Steven Esom set to succeed him. Ellwood said the business had made significant progress over the past year, while chief executive Alk Brand said Wynnstay was entering 2026 with a clear strategy and confidence in delivering sustainable growth. Krystle D'Souza is riding a wave of fresh attention after Shararat, the viral song from Aditya Dhar and Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar. Marking her first-ever dance number on screen, the song sees Krystal share the frame with Ayesha Khan, with choreography by Vijay Ganguly. Set against a wedding backdrop, Shararat stood out for its energy, the party beats and the chemistry between the two women. In an exclusive conversation with Filmfare, Krystle opens up about the moment she realised the song had gone viral, the simple brief that shaped the performance, and the quick turnaround that led to the shoot. She also talks about bonding with Ayesha on set, sharing the stage with Ranveer Singh at the song launch, and why that moment stayed with her. Reflecting on her journey from television to films, Krystal shares her advice for her younger self, discussing ambition, self-doubt, and more. Excerpts: In This Article What was your reaction when the song was released? It didn't hit me for a while because I wasn't in India. I was travelling, and suddenly I started seeing it all over social media. I was getting tagged every five minutes. Then my friends and family began telling me the song had gone viral back home. I remember sitting in Amsterdam thinking, Oh my god, what just happened? It happened overnight, and suddenly everyone was vibing to the song. When I finally landed back, I sat in my car, turned on the radio, and there it was playing. Did you anticipate this response? I didnt think it would blow up to this level. Ive never done a dance number before, so I didnt understand the magnitude of it. When we were briefed about the song, I heard it and thought it was catchy. After the meeting, when I was driving back home, I was automatically humming the tune and thinking, okay, its stuck. So I knew this was something people were going to love, but to this extent, I didn't anticipate it. What kind of brief did you get from Aditya Dhar? I first got a call from Mukesh Chhabra's casting agency. They told me there was a song happening and asked me to come in for a test the next day. I went for it and met Vijay Ganguly (the choreographer) and Aditya Dhar. We did a few hook steps. The one that you see wasn't the only hook step we tried. We experimented with a lot of steps. After that, I was selected, and we were told wed be shooting the song in the next three days. We had only that much time to rehearse. The brief was very simple. It wasn't a typical item song. It's two girls, and it is set in a wedding sequence, so the idea was to make it more fun and vibrant. Also, because it's two girls, the focus isn't on just one person or on making it an item number. Vijay sir said that I have a very different personality and so does Ayesha, and that's why they wanted to put the two of us together. That's a combination nobody would have thought of. Tell us about your bond with Ayesha... She's a really sweet and talented woman and a good dancer. When I was told that I'd be dancing with her, I went on her Instagram and saw that she dances so well. That gave me a motivational boost. When your co-star is good in a scene, you know the scene is going to be good. So, when your co-dancer is good, you know the dance is going to be good. We didn't rehearse much together because our lines of the song are different from each other, but when we came together on set, I saw she was so good and talented. It was a lot of fun shooting with her. We somehow just complemented each other in a very understated way. It's so important to have women who lift each other, and I think she's one of them. And I'm one of them for her. You also shared the stage with Ranveer Singh on the day the song launched... There was no plan to go up on stage. Jasmine Sandlas and Madhubanti Bagchi launched the song by singing it on stage. It was just the music launch, but when they started singing, we saw the crowd had started vibing to the song. That was the first time they heard Shararat, but everyone was vibing. That's when Ranveer said, Krystal, this is your song. We need to go on stage and perform. I wasn't prepared for it at all because I was wearing a saree, and I was not sure if I'd be able to dance in a saree. But that's the energy Ranveer gives out. You feel like matching up to it. He gave Madhubanti and Jasmine the time on stage to sing the song, and then he said let's do it one more time, but with Krystal, because it is her song and she needs to perform it. He took me on stage and gave me the centre to perform. As an actor, as a human being and as somebody from this industry, that meant a lot to me. That somebody is giving you the importance in that moment. Its very rare to find that, that's why he's a superstar, and he is where he is. Ranveer wanted me to have my moment for my song and tried his best to do the steps as well. He told me that he'd copy my steps, and that was so sweet that he was trying to give me that motivation and attention for that moment. What's the best compliment that you received for Shararat? My dad's not really a Bollywood buff, but every time he sees me, he replicates the steps. That's the biggest compliment I can get. Because he's not somebody who watches a lot of my work. Everyone was surprised to see me in the film because I didn't tell anyone that I'm a part of it. On the day the song launched, people were a little confused to see me on stage. I got a lot of messages from my friends and family asking me whether I was there to just promote the film. I just asked them to wait and watch. I'd just performed and didn't know how much of it would be there in the film. So I didn't want to take a risk by telling people I was a part of Dhurandhar. But the music video was released separately, so that the whole performance was out there for people to watch and appreciate. You have also worked with some iconic actors. What are some of the qualities that you have embodied from these people? From Amitabh Bachchan, I have learnt to be grounded and humble. Emraan Hashmi is very dedicated and focused on his fitness. He is disciplined. Riteish Deshmukh is such a fun-loving co-star to have. Fardeen Khan, on the other hand, is a gentleman. He is so good at what he does. He worked on his accent and on his craft to become Shoaib, who's a Dongri ka ladka in the film Visfot. Otherwise, he's so polished and has a slight accent. But you will never imagine that's the same person playing Shoaib. Talking about Ranveer Singh, his energy, vibe, big-heartedness, and confidence are some things I would love to apply in my life, not just professionally but also personally. You are still remembered for your role in Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai. What advice would you give to your younger self? There are a lot of people who recognise me from a lot of my work, but, yes, the majority does still recognise me for that show. It was something that played in every household. Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai shaped me and made me who I am, so if people remember me for that, I'm absolutely very proud of it. I do get recognised for other characters and roles as well, but not as much as that show. I would say don't give up and don't lose hope. The young me almost gave up many times, thinking it's not going to work out. I thought I would not be able to sustain for too long, but hey, look at me now! Why did you feel like you wanted to give up? It's not easy to sustain for so many years. It's been 17 years since I've been in this industry. Trying to get more work in different portals is difficult. Especially the jump from Television to OTT to films. Some people tell you that you are an overexposed face because you've done so much television or OTT, and for films, they are looking for somebody fresh. But then, you always meet people who think it is a plus point because you have that much experience and confidence to face the camera. Instead of taking somebody new, they would love to take someone with experience. There are two sides, but unfortunately, in the beginning, when I was trying to make that leap, I got a lot of comments saying that I was an overexposed face. And I thought it's not going to work out because I'm not a fresh face anymore. Also Read: Krystle Dsouza Addresses Buzz About Replacing Tamannaah Bhatia in Dhurandhar Song Director Nitesh Tiwaris ambitious cinematic adaptation of the Ramayana has been amongst constant discussion for different reasons. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash in lead roles, the project has seen multiple casting rumours over the last few months. While fans have been eagerly waiting for every update, recent reports about the supporting cast have faced direct denials from the actors involved. After a clarification from Vikrant Massey, Tamil actor Vijay Sethupathi has now come forward to address reports linking him to the project. For some time, speculation suggested that he had been roped in to play the character of Vibhishana. However, the actor has officially cleared the air. As reported by Bollywood Hungama, Vijay Sethupathi denied his involvement in the film. When asked about his participation, he said, No, sir. I am not a part of this project. No clue where this is coming from. This clarification comes shortly after Vikrant Massey also dismissed rumours of his association with the film. Reports had suggested that Raghav Juyal had replaced Vikrant for the role of Meghanad. Responding to these claims, he took to social media to state that he was never part of the movie to begin with. He wrote, Ok. To put the rumours to rest. I never was a part of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayan. The many media portals reporting about my supposed 'replacement' should've done the requisite background check. Disappointing. Nonetheless, wishing everyone a part of the movie all the very best. Love. While Vijay Sethupathi and Vikrant Massey have denied their involvement, the film still boasts a massive ensemble. Sunny Deol is set to play Hanuman, with Ravie Dubey as Laxman and Arun Govil as Dashrath. The cast also includes Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Indira Krishnan as Kausalya, and Kunal Kapoor as Indra. Names like Rakul Preet Singh, Kajal Aggarwal, and Mohit Raina have also been mentioned in reports, though official confirmation is awaited. Ramayana is planned as a two-part project. The first part is set for a Diwali release this year. While unconfirmed, reports suggest a teaser might be released on March 27, coinciding with Ram Navami. The second part is expected to hit screens during Diwali 2027. Also Read: Vijay Sethupathi Turns Storyteller As Kaadhal Kathai Sollava Trailer Unveils a Layered Romance K-dramas often rely on the dramatics of romantic relationships. While the main characters are always in the spotlight, the second leads also add to the charm. Interestingly, second leads in K-dramas are no longer just narrative accessories. Over the years, makers have chosen to give them more emotional depth, strong arcs and memorable screen presence. Some challenge the male lead, while others give more meaning to friendship and companionship. Sometimes, they quietly outshine the leads as well. Many linger long after the final episode ends. To know more, we have curated a list of ten standout second leads in K-dramas. These characters have elevated the stories without overpowering. No heartbreak cliches. Just solid writing, strong performances and lasting impact. In This Article Played by: Kim Seon Ho Played by: Choi Si Won Shin Hyuk knew where he stood from the beginning and he didn't compete with the leads. That self-awareness made him refreshing. His humour never felt forced and his kindness wasnt transactional. Choi Si Won avoided caricature. He balanced charm with restraint. The character was playful but emotionally intelligent. Shin Hyuk showed that second leads dont need angst to be memorable. Sometimes, consistency is enough. Han Woo Tak - While You Were Sleeping Played by: Jung Hae In Jung Hae Ins role was subtle but effective. He played a character defined by loyalty and devoid of any dramatic declarations. He did not have any emotional outbursts and his strength lay in reliability. The writing allowed him to exist without forcing conflict. That choice worked. He became a stabilising presence in a high-concept drama. His performance proved that minimal characters can leave a strong impression as well. Lee Joon Ho - Extraordinary Attorney Woo Played by: Kang Tae Oh Kang Tae Oh's character stood out through patience. He wasnt written as a rival. He wasnt framed as a threat. Instead, he was understanding without expectation. His role challenged the usual second-lead formula. Interestingly, there was no bitterness and no entitlement. His presence was enough to mesmerise the audiences. The makers made sure his character had emotional boundaries. It also allowed the audience to engage without manipulation. Chilbong - Reply 1994 Played by: Yoo Yeon Seok Chilbong was straightforward. His affection was clear. His intentions were sincere. He didnt play games. What made him effective was consistency. The character never shifted to fit audience reaction. He remained grounded in his motivations. Yoo Yeon Seok avoided exaggeration. He played Chilbong with warmth and restraint. Even disappointment felt measured. That steadiness made the character believable. Choi Young Do - The Heirs Played by: Kim Woo Bin Young Do was volatile, but not hollow. He was aggressive, but his loneliness was evident. His arc reflected neglect, not malice. Kim Woo Bin leaned into physical dominance while letting vulnerability surface gradually. The balance worked with the audience. Young Do didnt become a hero. He didnt need redemption through romance. His growth was internal. That realism helped the character age better than expected. In Guk Doo - Strong Woman Do Bong Soon Park Joong Gil - Tomorrow Played by: Ji SooGuk Doo was defined by hesitation. He wanted clarity but avoided confrontation. That flaw shaped his entire arc. Ji Soo played him without self pity. His frustration felt natural. But interestingly, the character wasnt framed as a tragic figure. He was simply someone who arrived late. That honesty resonated with viewers who value realism over fantasy.Played by: Lee Soo Hyuk Lee Soo Hyuks second-lead presence was about authority. He commanded attention without theatrics. His character carried emotional history without exposition-heavy writing. His performance relied on control. He had minimal movement throughout the series. But the intent of him being the second lead was clear to the audiences. Choi Do Il - Little Women Played by: Wi Ha Joon Choi Do Il worked because of restraint. He was calculated but not cold. He was protective but not possessive. His motivations were never spoon-fed. The writing trusted the audience to read between the lines. Wi Ha Joon played him with confidence and authority. His stillness added tension. His presence shifted the power dynamics without dramatic gestures. As a second lead, he anchored the political and emotional stakes of the story. Jang Geun Won - Itaewon Class Played by: Ahn Bo Hyun Jang Geun Won was uncomfortable to watch, and that was the point. He was insecure, impulsive and deeply shaped by parental pressure. His arc was about consequences, not redemption through romance. Ahn Bo Hyun leaned into the characters volatility. There was no attempt to soften him for sympathy. His breakdowns felt earned and not performative. As a second lead, he was all about privilege without direction. His presence sharpened the shows commentary on power and failure. Jr NTR has once again set social media on fire after being spotted at Hyderabad airport, heading out for an important overseas schedule of his much-anticipated action drama, Dragon. The actors trip to Jordan marks a significant milestone in the films production, with the team reportedly gearing up to shoot some of the most intense and visually grand sequences yet.The airport visuals quickly went viral, not just for NTRs departure but also because of his refreshed and healthier look. Fans had been debating his physical transformation for weeks, and the latest pictures seem to put all speculation to rest. Many are praising his rugged, energetic appearance as perfect for the high-voltage action the film promises. According to reports, the Jordan schedule will involve multiple high-octane action blocks, potentially including massive stunt sequences that are expected to elevate the narratives scale. Malayalam star Tovino Thomas is also likely to be part of this leg of the shoot, with rumours of a major face-off between him and Jr NTR adding to the anticipation.Helmed by Prashanth Neel, director of blockbuster hits like KGF 2 and Salaar, Dragon is shaping up to be one of Tollywoods most ambitious projects ever. While an official release date is yet to be formally revealed, insiders suggest the film could arrive in theatres in summer 2026, with the makers planning a massive pan-Indian rollout.With each new update, expectations are soaring, and the Jordan schedule is being seen as a major turning point in Dragons journey to the big screen.Dragon is tipped to be a fictional epic action saga with emotionally charged incidents that took place over a periodic timeline. According to the buzz, the film is set in 1969 against the backdrop of immigrant struggles in a specific region where the borders of China, Bhutan, and India's Golden Triangle meet. Colloquially known as #NTRNeel, Dragon is one of the most anticipated pan-Indian films. Actor Sivakarthikeyan is one of the many Tamil celebrities who deeply admires Ajith Kumar. The Parasakthi actor met the Vivegam star on Sunday at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Taking to social media, the Madharaasi actor shared lovely photos from the occasion. The duo, known for headlining several blockbusters over the years, posed for pictures in front of a race car. Sivakarthikeyan posted, Pure passion, commitment, dedication and resilience experienced it live, felt the adrenaline rush. An inspiring day spent with an inspiring person. Always look up to you, my dear #AK sir. Ajiths dedication to racing is no secret. Director Venkat Prabhu, who witnessed Ajiths performance on the circuit, called it pure goosebumps and beyond imagination. During the audio launch of his film Amaran in late 2024, Sivakarthikeyan recalled a conversation he had with Ajith after the failure of his 2022 film Prince. Welcome to the big league. People are seeing your growth and getting insecure welcome, the Good Bad Ugly star told Sivakarthikeyan. Much like the Vidaamuyaarchi actor, the Maaveeran actor too believes that idol worship is something his fans should stop engaging in. Thalapathy Vijay attended a high-profile wedding in Chennai on Sunday evening. The marriage was that of Sahil, son of Y S Sunil Reddy, and Vedika, and it took place in a grand manner at The Leela Palace. Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also attended the high-profile family wedding ceremony. It was truly a photo moment that brought together prominent figures from politics and cinema. Thalapathy Vijay greeted Jagan warmly, took a seat beside him, and spent some time in friendly conversation. Their relaxed interaction became the talking point of the event, and the pictures capturing the moment are now trending widely on social media. Their spotting garnered curiosity since Vijay too took the political plunge. The ceremony was a star-studded affair with several well-known personalities in attendance, including Suriya, Karthi, MK Stalin, and many others from different walks of life. On the professional front, Jana Nayagan is currently navigating certain legal issues. An official announcement regarding the release date is expected soon. While strong rumours point to February 20, the makers are yet to make a formal confirmation. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, 4 February 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing, Majed Al-Hogail, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today witnessed the completion of its first-ever tokenized property title deed transfer. The transaction was carried out through a collaboration between droppRWA and the Real Estate Registry (RER), utilizing only droppRWA's sovereign technology infrastructure. The transaction was executed through a fully integrated sovereign digital infrastructure encompassing a tokenization standard, stable settlement rails, compliance logic, an issuance framework and a delivery-versus-payment mechanism. This reflects the role of advanced technologies in supporting the digital transformation of the real estate sector and aligning it with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The transaction was executed between the National Housing Company (NHC), the government developer of affordable housing solutions and the Real Estate Development Fund (REDF), within the PropTech Sandbox environment overseen by the General Authority for Real Estate (REGA). The successful pilot demonstrated the potential to reduce settlement complexity and accelerate the certainty of real estate transactions, while maintaining regulatory oversight and supervision. A digital token (tokenized deed) representing the property title deed was linked to the RER's official registry, alongside the issuance of a separate token representing a transferable ownership interest. Compliance rules were encoded into the ownership transfer logic and settlement was executed securely and simultaneously through stable delivery-versus-payment mechanisms. His Excellency the Minister of Municipalities and Housing, Majed Al-Hogail, emphasized that the integration of trust, law and technology has enabled a qualitative leap in the management of real estate assets, noting that this milestone highlights the sector's ability to keep pace with digital transformation and open new horizons for investment. This achievement preserves the role of the Real Estate Registry as the official and trusted source of data, supports affordable housing programs, strengthens institutional investment flows and enhances the attractiveness of the Saudi real estate market for foreign direct investment, within clear digital frameworks aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Both the Real Estate Registry and droppRWA are expected to publish a technical summary of the pilot's outcomes, alongside the implementation of additional pilot transactions within designated investment zones in the Kingdom. About droppRWA droppRWA is a leading provider of regulator-native sovereign tokenization infrastructure. Built to anticipate the demanding requirements of G20 economies and other fast-growing nations, droppRWA's proprietary Trust Stack enables high value and traditionally illiquid assets and fund instruments in critically important sectors such as real estate, energy, and infrastructure, to be managed on-chain. droppRWA empowers enterprises, governments, and institutional investors to unlock programmable ownership and expand capital markets in a secure, transparent, and scalable digital economy. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2876243/droppRWA_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/his-excellency-al-hogail-sponsors-the-kingdoms-first-ever-tokenized-property-title-deed-transfer-utilizing-dropprwas-technology-infrastructure-302678086.html Das Borsenjahr 2026 ist fur viele Anleger ernuchternd gestartet. Tech-Werte straucheln, der Nasdaq 100 tritt auf der Stelle und ausgerechnet alte Favoriten wie Microsoft und SAP rutschen zweistellig ab. KI ist plotzlich kein Ruckenwind mehr, sondern ein Belastungsfaktor, weil Investoren beginnen, die finanzielle Nachhaltigkeit zu hinterfragen. Gleichzeitig vollzieht sich an der Wall Street ein lautloser Favoritenwechsel. Wahrend viele auf Wachstum setzen, feiern Value-Titel mit verlasslichen Cashflows ihr Comeback: Telekommunikation, Industrie, Energie, Pharma die Cashmaschinen der Realwirtschaft verdrangen hoch bewertete Hoffnungstrager. In unserem aktuellen Spezialreport stellen wir funf Aktien vor, die genau in dieses neue Marktbild passen: solide, gunstig bewertet und mit attraktiver Dividende. Werte, die nicht nur laufende Ertrage liefern, sondern auch bei Marktkorrekturen Sicherheit bieten. Jetzt den kostenlosen Report sichern bevor der Value-Zug 2026 endgultig abfahrt! Dieses exklusive PDF ist nur fur kurze Zeit gratis verfugbar. San Francisco, California--(Newsfile Corp. - February 8, 2026) - DreamTech has officially announced the launch of Neural4D-2.5, its new generation foundational model for 3D AIGC (Artificial Intelligence Generated Content). By introducing the innovative Native 3D Attribute Grid architecture, DreamTech aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of high-fidelity 3D assets for creators worldwide. Neural4D-2.5 represents a significant architectural shift, moving away from traditional resource-intensive methods to a streamlined generative process that optimizes computational efficiency while maintaining high-quality output. DreamTech Unveils Neural4D-2.5: Introducing the "Native 3D" Architecture for High-Fidelity AIGC To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/282676_d3dd7ee4e4099990_002full.jpg Technological Innovation: TEXTRIX and the "Native 3D" Paradigm The core innovation behind Neural4D-2.5 is detailed in the technical paper, TEXTRIX: Latent Attribute Grid for Native Texture Generation. Traditional methods often treat 3D texturing as a 2D projection task, which can lead to seams and lighting inconsistencies. Neural4D-2.5 addresses these challenges with a Native 3D Attribute Grid. Native 3D Generation : Utilizing a Sparse DiT (Diffusion Transformer) and Attribute VAE, the model generates geometry, texture, and semantic attributes directly in volumetric space. Seamless Consistency : This "born-in-3D" approach is designed to eliminate projection artifacts and seams, ensuring 360-degree visual consistency. Physical Disentanglement: The model goes beyond RGB colors by generating PBR (Physically Based Rendering) attributes - including roughness, metallic, and normal maps, ensuring assets are ready for integration into modern game engines. Mastering Complex Geometric Scenarios Neural4D-2.5 demonstrates exceptional capabilities in handling abstract and topologically complex scenarios, addressing common challenges in AI 3D generation: Complex Expressions & Structures : Leveraging Attribute VAE's high-frequency detail encoding, the model accurately captures exaggerated facial expressions and intricate topological structures. Floating Particles & Effects: Thanks to the Sparse 3D Representation, the model supports discontinuous topology. This allows for the generation of floating particles, separated strands, and artistic effects that are structurally independent yet visually cohesive. From Screen to Reality: Manufacturing-Ready Neural4D-2.5 is designed to bridge the gap between digital assets and physical manufacturing. It includes features optimized for 3D printing and CNC machining workflows. Manifold Thickening : Algorithms automatically detect and thicken thin shells to improve structural integrity. Watertight Geometry: The model generates closed meshes, streamlining the preparation process for slicing and printing. Availability DreamTech is committed to supporting the global creator economy. With the launch of Neural4D-2.5, the company has opened its API to developers, enabling efficient integration of high-quality 3D generation capabilities into various applications. By optimizing the underlying architecture, DreamTech aims to transform 3D generation into an accessible utility, empowering developers and creators to turn their imagination into reality with greater ease. For more information and API access, please visit: https://www.neural4d.com/api. About DreamTech DreamTech is a pioneer in 3D & 4D AIGC technology, dedicated to delivering advanced generative performance with highly optimized architecture. Driven by native 3D technology, DreamTech empowers creators to turn imagination into physical reality through advanced generative AI. About the company: DreamTech is focused on 3D AI technology, dedicated to enhancing the user experience for global AIGC creators and consumers through innovative products and services. Our vision is to leverage advanced AI technology to create seamless, real-time interactive 4D spatial experiences that integrate with the real world, and to achieve artificial general intelligence (AGI) by simulating the complexity and diversity of the real world. Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/BHsJe5a_LkU To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/282676 Source: Plentisoft CHONGQING, China, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SWS Medical will participate in the Dubai World Health (WHX) Expo for the seventh consecutive year. From February 9-12, the SWS team will exhibit at Booth N37.D70-01, engaging with industry leaders, partners, and clients. The company operates a fully integrated blood purification value chain spanning R&D, manufacturing, and global distribution, enabling the delivery of high-quality, innovative solutions worldwide. In late 2025, SWS signed an MOU with a leading Middle Eastern medical and laboratory services provider, establishing a strategic framework for trade cooperation and intelligent healthcare innovation. As a leader of China's globally expanding medical device sector, SWS Medical's participation at WHX Dubai highlights its advanced technology capabilities and strengthening position in the global blood purification market. At WHX 2026, SWS Medical will showcase its latest innovations blood purification for dialysis and critical care: The SWS-4000 and SWS-6000 series, representing China's leading dialysis technology with a combined 20% market share in China in 2025. The SWS-6000-SWS's best-selling model worldwide-is the only dialysis machine in China with certified monitoring of blood pressure, blood volume, temperature, and online clearance rate. The SWS-4000 features an Online HDF system for personalized, on-demand sterile fluid production. Both machines deliver safer, more efficient treatment through real-time monitoring, intuitive controls, and automated safety features. series, representing China's leading dialysis technology with a combined 20% market share in China in 2025. The SWS-6000-SWS's best-selling model worldwide-is the only dialysis machine in China with certified monitoring of blood pressure, blood volume, temperature, and online clearance rate. The SWS-4000 features an Online HDF system for personalized, on-demand sterile fluid production. Both machines deliver safer, more efficient treatment through real-time monitoring, intuitive controls, and automated safety features. The SWS-5000 , China's No. 1 CRRT machine for three consecutive years and CE certified, is an award-winning all-in-one platform supporting multi-organ blood purification, including the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and pancreas. , China's No. 1 CRRT machine for three consecutive years and CE certified, is an award-winning all-in-one platform supporting multi-organ blood purification, including the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and pancreas. The SWS Dialyzers manufactured using proprietary pre-vacuum pressure steam sterilization and 100% BPA-free materials, deliver high solute clearance, reliable ultrafiltration, and albumin retention aligned with clinical best-practice targets. manufactured using proprietary pre-vacuum pressure steam sterilization and 100% BPA-free materials, deliver high solute clearance, reliable ultrafiltration, and albumin retention aligned with clinical best-practice targets. The IntegratedManagement Platform, connecting dialysis centers, clinicians, and patients through - Data Hub, Patient Card, and Hemodialysis Management System - creates a closed-loop ecosystem that transforms dialysis data into smarter, safer, and more efficient care. Based in Chongqing, China, SWS Medical is a publicly listed medical device company (STAR Market, SSE: 688410) specializing in blood purification solutions for dialysis and critical care. The company plays a leading role in advancing China's blood purification industry, chairing the China Blood Purification Industry Technology Innovation Strategic Alliance and contributing to the development of national and industry standards. SWS Medical operates globally, with products certified to international quality and regulatory standards, including CE marking and ISO 13485:2016 compliance. swsdialysis.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sws-medical-brings-next-generation-blood-purification-solutions-to-whx-dubai-2026-302679974.html EQS Newswire / 09/02/2026 / 11:25 UTC+8 Preface: When AI moves from the cloud to the physical world, who can undertake the complexity of the real world? In this wave of AI investment, capital markets have focused heavily on the upstream computing power, foundational models, and application layers. This logic is clear and highly flexible, but precisely because of this, competition has quickly become fierce. In contrast, the capabilities required for integrating, manufacturing, and mass-delivering complex hardware systems during AI's transition from "cloud-based capabilities" to the "real world" have been underestimated. However, a clear trend is emerging: AI capabilities are beginning to migrate from the cloud to local devices. Although brand manufacturers are still in the exploration phase, AI PCs, AI smartphones, AI glasses, and embodied intelligent devices are accelerating their launch, with some products gradually entering the market introduction stage. Historical experience has repeatedly shown that when product forms mature and scale begins to expand, complex manufacturing and system integration capabilities will ultimately concentrate in the ODM ecosystem. Rather than betting on the outbreak of a single terminal, it is better to focus on terminal platform companies that can repeatedly deliver complex AI hardware in various forms. Against this backdrop, reviewing Huaqin Technology (SHA: 603296)'s development path is quite representative. Recently, Huaqin Technology announced that it is undertaking work in relation to the proposed issue of overseas listed foreign shares (H Shares) and its listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEX). The Listing Committee of HKEX held a listing hearing on 5 February 2026 to consider the company's application for the proposed offering and listing. The joint sponsors for the transaction received a letter from HKEX on 6 February 2026, which states that the Listing Committee has reviewed the company's listing application. However, such letter does not constitute formal listing approval, and HKEX reserves the right to provide further comments on the company's listing application. I. Starting from Smartphones: How Huaqin Evolved into an AI Hardware Platform with Multi-Terminal Layout AI is an unprecedented technological wave, but it is not without historical references. As described in the classic tech history book "On Top of Tides", science and technology are the main driving forces for social progress in our era. Technological revolutions have created winners standing at the crest of the wave and buried losers who cannot keep up. Looking back at Huaqin Technology's development trajectory, a recurring feature emerges: it has built capabilities before almost every round of industrial upgrading and become the recipient of demand when the industry truly scales up, riding the crest of multiple technological revolutions. Founded in 2005 by a team of founders with backgrounds from Tsinghua University and Zhejiang University, the company initially entered the market through smartphone motherboard design (IDH), providing R&D support for the rapidly rising domestic smartphone brands. Around 2010, as the wave of smartphone upgrades emerged, Huaqin Technology judged that pure design services could no longer meet brand customers' dual demands for efficiency and cost. It then extended downstream, building end-to-end capabilities from R&D and design, procurement and operations to manufacturing, completing the transformation to full-device ODM. This transformation made it the global leader in smartphone ODM shipments for the first time in 2011, and it has maintained a leading position in the industry for many years since then. But more importantly than the "number one" position is that the smartphone business itself has greatly tempered Huaqin's systematic capabilities Smartphones were already one of the most complex systems in consumer electronics at that time: involving radio frequency, heat dissipation, stacking, imaging, OS/driver adaptation, supply chain collaboration, and a manufacturing rhythm with extremely strict requirements for yield rate and ramp-up speed. For ODMs, what the smartphone business truly precipitated was not orders, but R&D-oriented full-device engineering capabilities, cross-supply chain organizational capabilities, and a systematic methodology from R&D to mass production. This systematic methodology is summarized by Huaqin Technology itself as the ODMM four quadrants: Efficient Operations, R&D and Design, Advanced Manufacturing, and Precision Structural Components. These four capabilities are interlocked to form a closed loop. On the R&D side, the company has formed a "1+5+5" global layout, with nearly 19,000 R&D and technical personnel; its R&D expenditure in 2024 reached 5.156 billion yuan. On the manufacturing side, the company has established a global manufacturing network of "China + VMI" (five locations in China + Vietnam, Mexico, India), with synchronous layouts at home and abroad to support the global delivery of multi-product and multi-customer orders. In addition, Huaqin Technology's customer service has long surpassed the traditional meaning of "after-sales service," evolving into an "end-to-end" one-stop service capability covering product definition, R&D and design, manufacturing, and operation and maintenance. This "end-to-end" service model has greatly reduced the complexity of supply chain management for brand customers and shortened the product launch cycle. When dealing with top-tier customers such as CSPs (Cloud Service Providers), Huaqin's service model has been further upgraded to close collaboration and Joint Design and Manufacturing (JDM). This is one of the core advantages that enabled the company to stand out in the highly demanding CSP market. Notably, software capabilities are becoming an important differentiator between Huaqin Technology and traditional manufacturing-oriented ODMs. Positioned as an "intelligent product platform enterprise," it is a hardware company with strong software capabilities. This difference stems from the software background of its founding team and long-term continuous investment in software, algorithms, and systems. Huaqin Technology's founding team has a strong software background (Qiu Wensheng, Cui Guopeng, and CTO Wu Zhenhai are all software engineers by training, while Chen Xiaorong is a hardware engineer), which has injected a software gene into the company. In addition, the company has continued to invest in software capabilities, with layouts in AI software, visual recognition, and other fields. In the era of edge AI, as local inference, multi-sensor fusion, and multimodal interaction gradually become the norm, software and systems engineering will directly affect the capability boundaries of hardware products Once system integration capabilities and platform capabilities are established, they have the ability to spill over to more complex hardware. From the system integration of laptops, the multi-category collaboration of tablets and wearables, the reliability and delivery rhythm requirements of data center equipment, to the software-hardware collaboration and safety redundancy standards of automotive electronics and robots, these are not as simple as "contract manufacturing for another category." For example, tablets require larger screen interaction and battery life optimization, laptops involve more complex x86/ARM multi-architecture adaptation, and smart wearables demand extreme miniaturization and low-power design. To meet the needs of different categories, Huaqin has standardized core modules through a platform-based technology middle office, enabling efficient cross-category R&D and delivery. According to a report by CIC Consulting, Huaqin leads the world in multiple categories. By cumulative smartphone ODM shipments from 2020 to 2024, Huaqin ranks first globally; by ODM shipments in 2024, the company also ranks first globally in tablets and smart wearables; in the laptop sector, by shipments in 2024, Huaqin has become the fourth-largest laptop ODM globally and the largest in Chinese Mainland. These data indicate that Huaqin Technology has taken a central position in the multi-terminal delivery system. Huaqin has a vision of "making hardware accessible to all," and its platform-based capabilities are the cornerstone of this vision. Such capabilities are crucial in the AI era, because AI will not be confined to a single terminal form but will reshape the entire hardware industry chain through the parallel development of multiple terminals, possibly in unexpected directions. Huaqin Technology's evolution history resembles a textbook on pre-positioning for each round of technological revolution. As AI hardware demand explodes, the company may be on the verge of a new growth phase. II. When Capabilities Meet a New Technological Cycle: The Realization Path of AI Increment at Huaqin Technology After confirming that Huaqin already possesses the underlying capabilities for multi-terminal expansion, a more critical question arises: Have these capabilities been translated into sustainable business growth in this new AI technological wave, and how will they continue to do so? Huaqin's strong scalability, driven by its system integration capabilities, is even more important in complex fields such as servers and automotive electronics. According to public information, the company's implemented "3+N+3" strategy takes smartphones, laptops, and servers as the three core pillars, expands into N types of ecological products such as smart life and commercial digital productivity, and lays out three innovative directions: automotive electronics, software, and robots. The increments brought by AI are being gradually realized across Huaqin's "3+N+3" business landscape, following a path from B-end to C-end and from computing power infrastructure to intelligent terminals. Among these, the first to reflect AI-related increments are not conceptual consumer-facing products, but businesses related to data centers and computing power infrastructure. As early as 2017, before the industry boom, Huaqin Technology strategically entered the data center business. Through continuous R&D investment and technical accumulation, it has built a complete layout covering AI servers, general-purpose servers, storage servers, and data center switches. More notably, Huaqin Technology is one of the few ODM manufacturers with both server and switch technical capabilities. Its products are compatible with mainstream GPU/CPU platforms and support high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-latency networking, which is a distinct advantage amid the continuous expansion of AI computing power clusters. As AI training and inference demand drive the rapid growth of the computing power market, this business is accelerating its entry into the harvest period. According to Huaqin Technology's external communication disclosure in 2025: the revenue of the data business in 2025 exceeded 40 billion yuan, achieving nearly doubled growth overall, of which AI servers accounted for over 70%, and switch operating income achieved multiple growth year-on-year, exceeding 2.5 billion yuan. Unlike consumer electronics, the data center and server business has higher requirements for system reliability, delivery stability, and long-term collaboration capabilities, with greater customer switching costs. Once entering the core supply system, the business often exhibits stronger sustainability. From a capital market perspective, such businesses are not known for "short-term outbreaks" but are more conducive to extending the company's overall growth cycle, freeing it from being dominated by the fluctuations of a single consumer electronics industry. At the same time, consumer electronics, driven by the AI wave, has become an evolving core business. The integration of AI has driven an overall improvement in product structure, per-unit value, and R&D complexity. Taking AI PCs as an example, they impose higher requirements on overall device heat dissipation, power management, software-hardware collaboration, and supply chain rhythm. These capabilities are derived from long-term accumulation. As early as 2015, Huaqin Technology entered the laptop ODM market, breaking the monopoly of Taiwanese manufacturers in this field. By 2024, the company's laptop shipments exceeded 15 million units, and it successfully entered the supply chain of HP, the world's second-largest PC brand. According to Gartner and Canalys, the penetration rate of AI PCs is rising rapidly, expected to exceed 100 million units in 2025 with a penetration rate of nearly 40%; by 2028, shipments will reach 200 million units, with a compound annual growth rate of over 40% from 2024 to 2028. In the field of emerging businesses, Huaqin's layout is also worthy of attention. In automotive electronics, the company has built full-stack product capabilities covering four major areas: intelligent cockpits, intelligent connectivity, intelligent vehicle control, and autonomous driving, and has reached multiple cooperation agreements with domestic automakers. Among them, in the intelligent cockpit field, Huaqin has completed full product coverage from entry-level to flagship models, with complete full-stack development and mass production experience from hardware underlying layers, software middleware to upper-layer HMI design. It has launched mid-range ADAS solutions based on Horizon Journey 6 series and high-end ADAS solutions based on NVIDIA Thor platform. In 2025, the automotive electronics business has achieved large-scale mass production, becoming a new growth highlight Multiple securities firms predict that global new energy vehicle sales will maintain high prosperity in 2026, with sales expected to reach a record high, driving high growth in industry chain demand. In addition, as the trend of autonomous driving popularization accelerates, policy incentives are implemented, and mapless NOA technology matures, high-end autonomous driving is rapidly penetrating the mass market. Although the current scale of the automotive electronics business is still relatively small compared to the company's overall revenue, it is expected to expand rapidly in line with industry trends. In the robot track, Huaqin aims to become a leading supplier of full-stack robot solutions in the 3C manufacturing field. The company has established a robot technology R&D team, leveraging its integrated advantages in CPU, GPU, sensors, and multimodal interaction technologies to explore humanoid robot R&D, and using its rich industrial scenarios to provide data support for product iteration. It is reported that in response to the needs of industrial manufacturing scenarios, the company is developing wheeled robots suitable for flexible manufacturing, which are expected to be delivered by the middle of this year; in the field of humanoid robots, the company completed the first-generation debugging of its self-developed biped humanoid robot in 2025, is planning the second-generation biped humanoid robot, and is conducting technical and business exchanges with multiple overseas leaders to actively explore cooperation opportunities; in the field of data collection robots, the company efficiently completed the development and delivery of data collection robots for a large model company in 2025. Although the current scale of these businesses is small, they are consistent with the company's existing software-hardware collaboration and complex system integration capabilities, providing more options for the future. Overall, Huaqin's growth in the AI cycle does not stem from the "re-outbreak" of a single terminal, but from leveraging platform-based capabilities to sequentially undertake demand across multiple business lines, forming a sustainable growth driver. This realization path is more akin to an industrial opportunity captor rather than a single-category manufacturer. III. When AI Extends the Cycle: How Capital Markets Re-price Huaqin Huaqin Technology's achievements in this round of AI are clearly reflected in its financial data. In the first three quarters of 2025, the company's cumulative revenue reached 128.88 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 69.6%; the net profit attributable to shareholders was 3.1 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 51.2%. The company recently issued an announcement, expecting its 2025 annual operating income to be approximately 170 billion yuan to 171.5 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 54.7% to 56.1%; the expected net profit attributable to shareholders is approximately 4 billion yuan to 4.05 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 36.7% to 38.4%. A more important indicator is the transformation of revenue structure: by product category, the proportion of high-performance computing business revenue in Huaqin Technology's total revenue rose to 60% in the first half of 2025, becoming the company's largest source of income. Among them, the core data center business contributed significantly, with Sinolink Securities Research Institute predicting that the revenue scale will exceed 40 billion yuan in 2025. Chart: Huaqin Technology's Business Structure in H1 2025, with High-Performance Computing Accounting for 60% Driven by AI, global computing power demand continues to expand. Data center construction, computing power upgrades, and network architecture evolution are becoming highly certain directions in hardware demand. From a more macro perspective, data from China Insights Consultancy (CIC) shows that the global data infrastructure market size has grown from 855.43 billion yuan in 2020 to 2.14224 trillion yuan in 2024, and is expected to increase to 4.99881 trillion yuan by 2030. Among them, the market size of AI servers reached 754.81 billion yuan in 2024, accounting for over 30% of the total, making it the primary growth engine. In addition, as the penetration rate of AI at the edge accelerates, Huaqin Technology's growth path presents a multi-level driven pattern. The intelligent terminal business will continue to support stable growth of the core business through acquisitions and integration, as well as the continuous increase in ODM industry penetration rate. Long-term momentum will come from innovative businesses such as automotive electronics and robots, which will gradually contribute increments. In the current capital market, Huaqin's valuation still has room for revaluation. Based on the A-share closing price as of February 3rd, Huaqin Technology's expected PE ratio for 2025 is approximately 20.7 times, lower than comparable companies such as Luxshare Precision and Everwin Precision. The latter clearly shows that AI-related hardware companies have begun to enjoy a higher valuation hub. In the current capital market, Huaqin's valuation level is not caused by a single factor, but more like the superposition of multiple cognitive inertia. On the one hand, the market still tends to regard it as a leading ODM in the smartphone industry chain, believing that its performance is highly dependent on the consumer electronics cycle; on the other hand, when the company's business continues to extend to PCs, servers, and more new fields, it is easily simply interpreted as "diversified expansion," thereby triggering doubts about business focus and synergy efficiency. However, by tracing Huaqin's own development path, it is found that this understanding is not entirely accurate. From smartphones to PCs and then to servers, each business expansion of the company is not a horizontal expansion, but a progression along the direction of increasing system complexity: more complex product forms, higher requirements for engineering collaboration, deeper customer relationships, and corresponding expansion of market space and value. This expansion logic is essentially a migration and reuse of capabilities, rather than a simple addition of categories. This "complexity-driven growth path" is not without precedent in the capital market. In its early stage, Fosun International long remained in a low valuation range due to its wide business distribution and weak correlation between sectors; but over time, the market gradually realized that its core competitiveness lies not in a specific asset, but in the ability to continuously discover and seize industrial opportunities, and the valuation logic then changed accordingly. Fosun's revaluation did not stem from the outbreak of a single business, but from the re-pricing of its "opportunity capture capability." The same logic applies to Huaqin Technology. The core issue facing Huaqin Technology today is not "whether it has AI concepts," but that the capital market's valuation model is still stuck in the past narrative of "consumer electronics manufacturing." This expectation gap between fundamentals and market pricing may constitute the potential for revaluation in the capital market. 09/02/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News . The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Media archive at www.todayir.com View original content: EQS News IRAEmpire has published a new ranking of the best crypto investing apps in 2026 to help consumers. Their new rankings aim to help consumers make better-informed decisions. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 8, 2026 / Cryptocurrency has become an increasingly popular asset class for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional options such as stocks, bonds, and cash. With wider adoption has come a surge in mobile apps that allow users to buy, hold, and manage digital assets directly from their phones. While this accessibility is a major advantage, it also makes choosing the right crypto investing app more important than ever. Not all crypto apps are designed with long-term investors in mind. Some platforms focus on frequent activity and complex features that can overwhelm beginners and increase risk. Others prioritize simplicity, security, and a more disciplined approach to cryptocurrency investing. Learn About the Best Crypto Investing App Here. What Makes a Crypto Investing App the Best? The best crypto investing app is not defined by flashy features or an overwhelming number of assets. Instead, it is determined by how well the platform supports safe and long-term participation in cryptocurrency markets. For most investors, especially beginners, reliability and simplicity are far more valuable than complexity. Security is the most important factor. Platforms that rely on institutional-grade custody solutions and segregated storage tend to offer greater peace of mind. Check Out the Best Crypto Platforms in the US Here. Ease of use is another essential consideration. An effective app should allow users to buy and manage cryptocurrency without confusion. Clean interfaces, straightforward navigation, and clear account information reduce the risk of costly mistakes and make the investing process more approachable. Transparency around pricing also plays a key role. Investors should be able to understand how much they are paying to buy or sell crypto, without hidden spreads or unclear charges. Clear pricing builds trust and helps users make informed decisions. Finally, the best apps are designed for long-term investing rather than constant activity. Features that support portfolio monitoring, disciplined allocation, and steady participation tend to align better with sustainable crypto investing goals. Types of Crypto Apps Explained Not all cryptocurrency apps serve the same purpose. While many allow users to buy and hold digital assets, the overall design and intended user experience can vary significantly. Understanding the main categories of crypto apps can help investors choose one that aligns with their goals and level of experience. Active Market Apps Some crypto apps are built for users who frequently buy and sell digital assets. These platforms often include advanced interfaces, real-time price movement displays, and a wide range of asset options. While this can appeal to experienced users, the complexity may increase the likelihood of impulsive decisions for beginners. These apps typically require users to monitor markets closely and make rapid decisions. For long-term investors, this level of involvement is often unnecessary and can introduce additional risk. Long-Term Crypto Investing Apps Long-term crypto investing apps are designed for individuals who prefer a more disciplined, buy-and-hold approach. These platforms focus on simplicity, portfolio visibility, and ease of use rather than constant activity. Features commonly include streamlined account dashboards, straightforward buying and selling processes, and tools that help users track overall portfolio performance. iTrustCapital falls into this category, making it well suited for investors focused on steady participation rather than frequent adjustments. Crypto Wallet Apps Crypto wallet apps give users direct control over their private keys, offering full ownership of digital assets. While this provides greater autonomy, it also places responsibility for security entirely on the user. Loss of access or security mistakes can result in permanent loss of assets. Wallet apps are generally better suited for experienced users who are comfortable managing their own security practices. iTrustCapital Review - Best Crypto Investing App Overall iTrustCapital stands out as a crypto investing app built for individuals who value clarity, security, and a long-term approach to digital assets. Rather than overwhelming users with complex features, the app focuses on making cryptocurrency investing accessible and easy to manage, especially for those who are new to the space. Read iTrustCapital Reviews, Fees, and Services Analysis The platform is designed around a simple user experience. From account setup to portfolio monitoring, iTrustCapital keeps the process straightforward, allowing users to focus on allocation decisions rather than technical details. This approach helps reduce friction and supports more disciplined investing behavior. iTrustCapital also aligns cryptocurrency investing with long-term financial planning. By offering access to digital assets within a familiar investment framework, the app appeals to users who see crypto as part of a broader diversification strategy rather than a short-term opportunity. These qualities collectively position iTrustCapital as one of the best crypto investing apps for individuals seeking simplicity and a security-first approach. What Is iTrustCapital? iTrustCapital is a fintech software platform for alternative assets. and mobile app designed to help individuals invest in cryptocurrency through a structured, secure, and user-friendly environment. The app is built primarily for long-term investors who want exposure to digital assets without the complexity often found on other crypto platforms. One of iTrustCapital's defining features is its focus on simplicity. The app allows users to buy, hold, and manage cryptocurrency through a clean interface that does not require advanced technical knowledge. This makes it accessible to beginners while still meeting the needs of experienced investors who prefer a streamlined experience. Check if iTrustCapital is the Right Fit for You iTrustCapital supports a curated selection of well-established digital assets, including major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Digital assets are stored with third-party institutional storage providers, helping secure investor holdings. Overall, iTrustCapital positions itself as a crypto investing app for individuals who value structure, security, and a disciplined approach to participating in cryptocurrency markets. How the iTrustCapital App Works The iTrustCapital app is designed to make cryptocurrency investing straightforward from start to finish. The process begins with account creation, where users complete identity verification similar to other platforms. Once the account is set up, they can either open a crypto IRA or a Premium Custody Account. Once they choose the account, users can add funds and begin investing in supported digital assets. The app provides a clear dashboard where users can view available cryptocurrencies, see current pricing, and allocate funds with just a few taps. The interface is intentionally simple, allowing users to focus on investment decisions rather than navigating complex features. After an investment is made, holdings are displayed in real time within the app. Users can monitor portfolio performance, review transaction history, and adjust allocations as needed. All assets are held with third-party institutional storage providers, removing the need for users to manage private keys or external storage solutions. The app also supports ongoing portfolio management. Whether users want to increase exposure, reduce holdings, or rebalance over time, the process remains consistent and easy to understand. By combining simplicity and secure asset storage, the iTrustCapital app offers a practical way to invest in cryptocurrency with confidence. Learn More About iTrustCapital Here Cryptocurrencies Available on iTrustCapital iTrustCapital offers access to a carefully selected range of cryptocurrencies that are widely recognized and commonly used by long-term investors. Rather than listing hundreds of speculative digital assets, the platform focuses on established cryptocurrencies that align with portfolio diversification and risk-conscious investing. Major assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum are available, providing users with exposure to the most well-known cryptocurrencies by market adoption and network usage. These assets are often viewed as foundational holdings for investors looking to participate in the crypto market with a long-term perspective. The platform's curated approach helps reduce complexity for users, especially beginners. By limiting the selection to prominent digital assets, iTrustCapital allows investors to make clearer decisions without being overwhelmed by lesser-known or highly volatile options. This structure supports a more disciplined investing mindset. In addition to cryptocurrencies, iTrustCapital also allows users to allocate funds to other alternative assets, such as physical precious metals. This feature enables broader diversification within a single platform, appealing to investors who want to balance digital assets with more traditional stores of value. Overall, the asset selection on iTrustCapital reflects its emphasis on simplicity, stability, and long-term investment planning rather than short-term speculation. Why iTrustCapital Is the Best Crypto Investing App iTrustCapital is widely regarded as one of the best crypto investing apps because it combines security, simplicity, and a long-term investment focus into a single, easy-to-use platform. Rather than encouraging constant activity or complex strategies, the app is designed to support disciplined participation in the cryptocurrency market. Check if iTrustCapital is The Right Crypto Investing App for You There are multiple account options, so you can focus on tax-advantaged* crypto investing (Crypto IRA) or everyday investing with their Premium Custody Account. One of the strongest advantages of iTrustCapital is its emphasis on asset security. Digital assets are stored with third-party institutional storage providers, which helps secure investor holdings and reduces the risks associated with personal wallet management. This approach appeals to users who prefer a managed and secure environment. Ease of use is another key reason the app stands out. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it simple for users to buy, hold, and manage cryptocurrency without confusion. This accessibility lowers the barrier to entry and supports more confident decision-making. iTrustCapital is also built for long-term investing. The app aligns well with portfolio diversification strategies and encourages thoughtful allocation rather than impulsive behavior. Low pricing and straightforward account management further reinforce trust. For investors seeking a reliable, user-friendly, and security-focused way to invest in cryptocurrency, iTrustCapital offers a balanced solution that prioritizes stability over speculation. iTrustCapital vs Other Crypto Investing Apps When comparing iTrustCapital with other crypto investing apps, the primary differences lie in simplicity, security, and intended use. Many apps in the market are designed for frequent activity and feature-rich experiences that can overwhelm users who prefer a long-term approach. Also most platforms are exchanges, where transactions are taxable. iTrustCapital has multiple account options, their Premium Custody Account for everyday investing and their Crypto IRA for retirement. Another difference is overall app design. While some platforms prioritize speed and constant price movement displays, iTrustCapital emphasizes portfolio visibility and straightforward navigation. This helps users focus on their investment strategy rather than reacting emotionally to short-term market fluctuations. iTrustCapital also stands out for its long-term orientation. The app supports disciplined investing habits and aligns well with broader financial planning goals. For users who want an easy to use platform, iTrustCapital offers a more measured alternative to feature-heavy crypto apps. Who Should Use iTrustCapital as a Crypto Investing App iTrustCapital is best suited for individuals who want a straightforward and disciplined way to invest in cryptocurrency without unnecessary complexity. The app is designed for users who prioritize long-term outcomes, secure custody, and ease of use over constant activity and advanced features. First-time crypto investors are a strong fit for iTrustCapital. The simple interface, clear pricing, and managed custody help reduce confusion and lower the learning curve. This allows new users to focus on understanding digital assets rather than navigating complicated platforms. Long-term investors may also find iTrustCapital appealing. Those who view cryptocurrency as part of a broader portfolio diversification strategy can benefit from the app's steady, structured approach. The platform supports thoughtful allocation decisions rather than encouraging impulsive behavior driven by short-term price movement. iTrustCapital is particularly well suited for retirement-focused investors who want exposure to cryptocurrency within a familiar investment framework.Overall, iTrustCapital is ideal for users who value ease, security, and a long-term mindset when investing in cryptocurrency. Check Out the Best Crypto Companies in the USA About IRAEmpire IRAEmpire is a leading online resource dedicated to helping investors make smarter decisions about retirement planning, precious metals, and alternative investments. Built with a mission to simplify complex financial topics, IRAEmpire provides in-depth reviews, comparison guides, and educational content focused on Gold IRAs, Silver IRAs, and other self-directed retirement accounts. *Some taxes may apply. CONTACT: Ryan Paulson ryan@iraempire.com SOURCE: IRAEmpire LLC View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/blockchain-and-cryptocurrency/best-crypto-investing-app-2026-announced-1134773 This groundbreaking discovery has revealed a systemic metabolic dysfunction that creates a toxic exosome cargo in ALS patients, which is carried to the CNS, where it binds to and damages neurons Vesalic is pioneering a novel therapeutic to intercept and neutralise these toxins, potentially slowing or halting progression of monogenic and sporadic forms of ALS In addition, Vesalic has discovered a disease-specific alteration of the lipid composition in the membranes of exosomes circulating in the blood, and has developed a highly accurate biomarker-based technology to detect both monogenic and sporadic ALS Based on its novel biomarker discoveries, Vesalic is also applying its biomarker technology for other neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's LONDON, UK / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Vesalic Limited, an early-stage neurodegenerative disease-focused biotech company, today emerged from stealth with the landmark discovery of a systemic process - largely external to the brain and central nervous system (CNS) - that is suspected to be a major contributor to motor neuron diseases (MND), including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). This discovery could potentially transform understanding of the origin of these diseases. Vesalic is leveraging this groundbreaking finding, and the company's identification of a previously unknown blood-based disease signature of ALS, to advance breakthrough therapeutic and diagnostic solutions. These advances could revolutionise the treatment and diagnosis of this devastating disease and potentially have implications for other NDDs as well. Unmet Therapeutic Need in ALS and Vesalic's Therapeutic Approach Lack of therapeutic success with brain and CNS targets. ALS is the most common type of MND, with an estimated 350,000 people affected worldwide, and with an expected increase in the coming years due to the ageing population. ALS patients experience progressive degeneration and loss of neurons in the brain, brainstem and spinal cord, which results in the brain losing its ability to initiate and control muscle movement, leading to paralysis and death. ALS remains largely untreatable despite extensive investigation over many years of approaches targeting abnormalities in the brain and CNS. In addition, nearly all development efforts have focused on therapies for monogenic (or 'familial') forms of the disease, which account for around 10% of all ALS cases, out of which only about 3% can potentially access a therapy option. This offers little prospect of change for the remaining 90% of ALS patients with sporadic forms of the disease. Vesalic's target: a non-CNS driver of monogenic and sporadic ALS. Vesalic has characterised a systemic metabolic dysfunction that creates a toxic exosome cargo in ALS patients, which is carried to the CNS, where it binds to and damages neurons, yielding a novel druggable target against the disease. Vesalic is now pioneering a therapeutic to intercept and neutralise these toxins before they can damage neurons. This approach could potentially slow or halt progression of both monogenic and sporadic forms of the disease. Vesalic is now conducting in vivo studies to establish preclinical proof of concept for its therapeutic and to support a planned regulatory filing in 2027 to initiate clinical study. Unmet Diagnostic Need in ALS and Vesalic's Diagnostic Approach Lack of measurable biomarkers to diagnose ALS. In addition to a lack of therapeutic options, there is no definitive, non-invasive diagnostic method for ALS - especially in the early stages. Once other conditions are ruled out, a combination of techniques such as MRI scans, tests of nerve conduction and nerve and muscle electrical activity, and lumbar punctures, are utilised. The current diagnostic process typically takes many months, and in some cases over a year. There have been considerable efforts to identify biomarkers that would allow rapid, non-invasive and accurate diagnosis at symptom onset, or earlier, but with limited success to date. Vesalic's highly accurate biomarker-based technology. Biomarker-based diagnostics currently in development for ALS are designed to detect various protein and RNA abnormalities. Vesalic has discovered that the signature of ALS is also expressed as an alteration of the lipid composition in the membranes of exosomes circulating in the blood. Based on this discovery, Vesalic has developed a biomarker-based technology with >90% accuracy in detecting both monogenic and sporadic forms of ALS, and which could be deployed in third-party clinical trials. Vesalic believes that its biomarker test potentially could predict ALS years before a patient becomes symptomatic. The test holds the promise of drastically simplifying the diagnostic odyssey that patients and their families currently endure. In addition, the test potentially could be utilised to monitor treatment response in real time and guide therapeutic strategies. Beyond ALS, Vesalic is also applying its biomarker technology based on lipid alteration in exosomes for the detection of other NDDs, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Intellectual Property Vesalic has worked with leading scientists to build the data to support the therapeutic and biomarker concepts and has built a broad patent estate around these. Professor Kevin Talbot, Head of the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford, said, "Pushing boundaries to help us understand the causes and biological signatures of ALS is critical to delivering true progress against this devastating disease. It's incredibly exciting to see Vesalic advancing this therapy that could potentially address sporadic and monogenic ALS, alongside a simple, non-invasive biomarker test that could allow patients to be diagnosed much earlier. These efforts offer meaningful hope for the future to the ALS community." Vesalic's Executive and Scientific Leadership Incorporated in early 2023, Vesalic's founders include Dr. Valeria Ricotti (CEO), Professor Thomas Voit (Chief Scientific Officer) and John McLaren (Executive Chair). The company raised initial funding from individual investors, including its non-executive directors, Elie Vannier, Oscar Schafer and Simon Black, and prominent individual investors including Bertrand Meunier. Dr. Ricotti said, "Our groundbreaking discoveries could fundamentally reshape the landscape in diagnosing and treating ALS, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. We've made remarkable progress advancing our ALS therapeutic programme, our biomarker technology, and building our patent estate. We continue to push ahead, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the coming months." Professor Voit said, "Years of focusing on brain and CNS-specific targets have been largely unfruitful in the search of both biomarkers and therapies for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. It's vital that we explore new scientifically driven hypotheses, including potential systemic pathogenic drivers. They could hold the key to unlocking desperately needed advancements for patients impacted by these diseases." Dr. Ricotti is an entrepreneur and clinician-scientist with a strong track record in the development of advanced therapies and biomarkers, bridging academic innovation and biotech translation. Professor Voit leads Vesalic's scientific operations. In addition, he serves as Vice Dean for Innovation and Enterprise at the Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, and Director of the National Institute of Health Research, Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre. Vesalic's Scientific Advisory Board Vesalic's advancements are the result of close collaboration among the company's core scientific and advisory team of leading academic partners: Professor Payam Barnaghi - Chair in Machine Intelligence Applied to Neuroscience, Imperial College London; specialist in AI-based biomarker and digital phenotyping Professor Julie Dumonceaux , Director, Vesalic - Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London; expert in biomarker discovery and translational molecular biology Professor Albert Ludolph - Chair of Neurology at Universitatsklinikum Ulm; internationally recognised expert in ALS Dr. Umesh Muchhal - Chief Scientific Officer, Stealth Biotech; over 20 years' experience in antibody design, preclinical, and clinical development Professor Paolo Pinton, Dept. of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara; a leading expert in pathology and cell-fate mechanisms in disease Dr. Valeria Sansone, Dept. of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan; internationally recognised expert in ALS Professor Dame Pamela Shaw - Director, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience; leading researcher in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis and clinical translation Professor Kevin Talbot - Head of the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford Dr. Michiel Vandenbosch - Facility Manager, Imaging Mass Spectrometry Core Lab, Maastricht University; leader in proteomic and mass-spectrometry-based biomarker discovery About Vesalic Limited Vesalic is an early-stage biotech company focused on neurodegenerative diseases, initially ALS. Despite extensive investigation of approaches targeting abnormalities in the brain and CNS, ALS remains predominantly untreatable and lacks a definitive, non-invasive diagnostic method. Vesalic has discovered a systemic process - largely external to the brain and central nervous system - that is suspected to be a pathogenic driver of ALS. Vesalic is advancing breakthrough solutions that could revolutionise the treatment and diagnosis of this devastating disease, and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Company Contact: Media Contact: Dr. Valeria Ricotti Liz Melone CEO, Vesalic liz@melonecomm.com valeria@vesalic.com ### SOURCE: Vesalic Limited View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/uk-based-vesalic-limited-emerges-from-stealth-with-landmark-discovery-1134470 SHANGHAI, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On February 1, the inaugural "Discover Shanghai" travel guide competition, organized by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, concluded with an awards ceremony broadcast live globally by Dragon TV. Spanning months, the event garnered over 8,000 submissions, 250 million+ online views, and 83,000 offline participants, showing public co-creation's lasting vitality for Shanghai's cultural and tourism sectors. A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link. The professional category delivered tangible results and valuable insights for this industry. From 640 preliminary submissions recommended by district authorities, 150 high-quality travel guides advanced to the finals, with a total of 50 first-, second- and third-prize winners, along with 50 single-category award recipients. Nearly one-third of the shortlisted works have been transformed into bookable tourism products, providing high-quality offerings for the Spring Festival tourism market. The public category sparked a citywide celebration of tourism. More than 8,000 entries were submitted, helping push views of related topics on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok) beyond 250 million. From polished professional videos to spontaneous, heartfelt user-generated content, and from iconic landmarks to lesser-known hidden gems, these diverse works vividly showcased Shanghai as a vibrant, dynamic and welcoming city. The hashtag "DiscoverShanghaiAtHalfPrice" repeatedly climbed local trending charts, establishing new tourism labels for the city as both affordable and experience-rich. Cross-sector innovation emerged in the AI music creation category. Over 1,600 original songs, blending poetic expression with Shanghai's landmarks, accumulated over 1.83 million plays, opening a new pathway for promoting cultural tourism through travel, music, and technology integration. Offline engagement further validated the competition's impact. During the New Year holiday, a citywide check-in campaign featuring 351 locations and 28 themed routes attracted 83,000 attendances within three days. The true value of the competition was ultimately reflected in the market's positive response. Online searches for Shanghai-related keywords, including attractions, hotels, and restaurants, surged on Douyin. During the Spring Festival holiday, Shanghai will launch 2,570 cultural and tourism activities, alongside extensive discounts and joint promotions with major attractions, airlines, and online travel platforms. Beyond short-term popularity, the competition has established a sustainable model of public co-creation, in which user-generated content drives online traffic, professional institutions convert creativity into bookable products, and government provides policy support. The virtuous cycle continues to activate Shanghai's cultural and tourism resources across the city, uncovering new scenarios, new content, and new products. Drawn from thousands of creative works and large-scale offline participants, Shanghai proves that the key to high-quality tourism development lies in the boundless potential of public co-creation. Although the inaugural competition has concluded, the innovation and the enthusiasm it has sparked continue to grow. Source: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism Contact person: Ms. Zhu, Tel: 86-10-63074558 Italian publishing group adopts the AI-powered media operating system developed by The Washington Post to accelerate innovation, deepen audience relationships, and scale multimedia publishing across its portfolio. WASHINGTON, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Editoria Italia, a leading Italian digital publishing group, has selected Arc XP to power the next phase of growth and innovation across its portfolio of news brands, including Libero, Il Giornale, Il Tempo, Corriere di Viterbo, Corriere di Rieti, and Moneta. As media organizations across Europe confront rapid shifts in audience behavior, AI acceleration, and increasing pressure to diversify revenue streams, Editoria Italia is investing in a unified, future-ready platform to support multimedia storytelling, AI-driven workflows, and direct audience engagement at scale. Rather than optimizing for legacy publishing models, the group is consolidating its digital operations on Arc XP to create a single foundation for innovation across editorial, product, and business teams. The platform will support multisite publishing, faster experimentation with new formats and products, and deeper use of first-party data to personalize experiences and build stronger reader relationships. "Media companies today are navigating an environment where content formats, audience expectations, and revenue models are changing at the same time," said Nicola Speroni, CEO of Editoria Italia. "We needed a platform built for this reality, not one designed for the past. Arc XP gives us an intelligent, AI-powered foundation to simplify operations, accelerate publishing, and position our brands for long term growth in digital journalism." Arc XP was originally developed by The Washington Post to support its own transformation into a modern, multimedia company operating at a global scale. Today, the platform is used by publishers worldwide that are rethinking how they create content, engage audiences, and grow independent revenue in an AI-driven landscape. "Editoria Italia is taking a forward-looking approach that many ambitious publishers are now embracing," said Matt Monahan, President of Arc XP. "They are investing in a platform that helps them move faster, operate more efficiently, and build direct, durable relationships with their audiences. Arc XP is designed to help media companies not just manage content, but run their business and compete in what comes next." Editoria Italia reaches millions of readers across Italy through a portfolio spanning national news, politics, and financial coverage. By standardizing on a single media operating system, the group aims to reduce complexity, unlock new capabilities across its brands, and create a scalable foundation for future innovation. About Editoria Italia Editoria Italia is a leading Italian digital publishing group, operating a portfolio of prominent news and information brands including Libero, Il Giornale, Il Tempo, Corriere di Viterbo, Corriere di Rieti, and Moneta. The company focuses on delivering high-quality journalism at scale while continuously evolving its digital platforms to meet the evolving needs of modern audiences. About Arc XP Arc XP is the content platform and operating system built to power growth for ambitious media companies. Developed by The Washington Post, Arc XP is used by leading media organizations worldwide, including The Irish Times, Liberation, L'Express, Madsack, Graham Media Group, and Sky News. Arc XP supports more than 2,500 sites globally and delivers billions of pageviews each month. Learn more at www.arcxp.com . Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2889329/ArcXP_WaPo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/editoria-italia-prepares-its-news-brands-for-the-next-era-of-media-with-arc-xp-302681774.html China-Turkiye business conference held in Istanbul to promote deeper cooperation Xinhua) 13:16, February 09, 2026 ISTANBUL, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- The 3rd China-Turkiye Business Conference was held in Istanbul on Saturday, bringing together more than 300 representatives from government bodies, business associations and enterprises from both countries to explore new drivers of trade growth and cooperation. Ren Hongbin, chairperson of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), led a delegation of Chinese entrepreneurs to attend the event. In his remarks, Ren said China and Turkiye, once connected by the ancient Silk Road, have a strong foundation for bilateral cooperation and great potential ahead. He cited projects such as China-Europe freight trains passing through Turkiye, the Ankara-Istanbul high-speed railway jointly built by Chinese and Turkish companies, and the growing popularity of Turkish products such as pistachios in the Chinese market as tangible outcomes of the cooperation. Ren said the CCPIT is willing to work closely with Turkish partners to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote the sustained development of China-Turkiye relations. Turkiye's Minister of Trade Omer Bolat spoke highly of the achievements in bilateral economic and trade relations, noting that China is among Turkiye's top three trading partners. He said the two sides have significant potential for cooperation in supply chains, and that Turkiye has high expectations for expanding tourism cooperation with China. Bolat said the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has become an important avenue for Turkiye-China cooperation in transportation and connectivity. He added that Turkiye welcomes increased Chinese investment and encourages Turkish companies to further explore the Chinese market. During the forum, the CCPIT renewed memorandums of understanding with the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Turkiye and the Turkish Industry and Business Association. The China International Exhibition Center Group promoted the 4th China International Supply Chain Expo, which will take place in Beijing in June, and signed a cooperation memorandum with Turkiye's Ata Holding. Participants also held thematic discussions and business matchmaking sessions on artificial intelligence, tourism, aviation, and energy. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Inside information Ghent, BELGIUM, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Biotalys (Euronext: BTLS), an Agricultural Technology (AgTech) company developing protein-based biocontrols for sustainable crop protection, today announced its intention to proceed with a strategic refocus designed to concentrate resources on its highest-priority programs and streamline operations accordingly. As part of this initiative, Biotalys intends to right-size its organizational structure and suspend its early-stage activities to reduce operating expenses, while safeguarding the long-term value of its technology platform. The company intends to prioritize the development and regulatory advancement of its lead biofungicide assets and focus commercial preparation efforts on markets with the highest near-term potential. The intended initiative is expected to result in an estimated reduction in total cash burn until the end of 2028 of 20m versus the current operating structure. "It is imperative that we deploy capital where it creates the greatest impact," said Kevin Helash, CEO of Biotalys. "A narrowing of the focus to our core assets and most advanced programs aims to strengthen our ability to deliver innovative, sustainable crop protection solutions to growers and, subject to securing additional funding, to advance our path to long-term value creation." The intended strategic transition will focus resources on progressing Biotalys' most advanced biofungicide programs - EVOCA NG and BioFun-6 - while continuing to support the partnered BioFun-7 program with the Gates Foundation as well as BioIns-2, the company's insecticide program in partnership with Syngenta. Biotalys will continue process development to achieve commercially competitive manufacturing costs, supported by its recently announced strategic partnership with 21st.BIO. Biotalys will also continue its partnership for the post-harvest market with AgroFresh. This partnership driven approach and intended heightened focus are aimed at de-risking future commercialization efforts. In this context, Biotalys announced its intention to reduce its workforce by 30 employees to align its cost structure with the intended refocused strategy.1 The company confirms its cash runway into May 2026, as previously announced. Biotalys is in discussion with investors regarding potential financing options, to support the sharpened portfolio. The intended measures should significantly reduce the investment required to deliver on Biotalys' goal of becoming a pioneer of Precision Biocontrols generating value for its shareholders and stakeholders and growers worldwide. About EVOCA EVOCA helps safely control the fungal diseases Botrytis (grey mold) and powdery mildew for fruit and vegetable growers. EVOCA NG is expected to be Biotalys' first commercial biofungicide, with a planned launch in the USA in 2029, and in Europe in 2030, targeting a combined market of more than USD 1.1 billion.2 On 2 December 2025, Biotalys announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved EVOCA, the company's first-generation version. An approval of EVOCA paves the way for the regulatory submission of EVOCA NG. The company anticipates a significantly shorter regulatory review process for EVOCA NG, as the product contains the same active ingredient as EVOCA. About Biotalys Biotalys is an Agricultural Technology (AgTech) company developing precision biocontrol solutions based on proteins for the protection of crops in both the pre- and post-harvest markets. The company provides novel solutions that bridge the efficacy and scale of chemistry with the environmental advantages of biological solutions. Based on its novel AGROBODY technology platform, Biotalys is developing a strong and diverse pipeline of effective product candidates with a favorable safety profile that aim to address key crop pests and diseases across the whole value chain, from soil to plate. Biotalys was founded in 2013 as a spin-off from the VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) and is listed on Euronext Brussels. The company is based in the biotech cluster in Ghent, Belgium. More information can be found on www.biotalys.com. For further information, please contact: Toon Musschoot, Head of IR & Communication T: +32 (0)9 274 54 00 E: IR@biotalys.com Important Notice Biotalys, its business, prospects and financial position remain exposed and subject to risks and uncertainties. A description of and reference to these risks and uncertainties can be found in the annual report on the consolidated annual accounts published on the company's website. Biotalys does not have sufficient working capital to cover the working capital needs for a period of at least 12 months as of the date hereof and only has a cash runway into May 2026. The company will require additional funds beyond this period in order to meet its capital and expenditure needs and ensure its going concern even if the intended restructuring of the company would be completed. The company is in discussion with current and new investors and continues to evaluate financing options it being noted that, on the date hereof, no concrete financing options or proposals are obtained by the company. Such financing might not be available when needed or, if available, might not be available on commercially favourable terms. This announcement contains statements which are "forward-looking statements" or could be considered as such. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words 'aim', 'believe', 'estimate', 'anticipate', 'expect', 'intend', "have the potential", 'may', 'will', 'plan', 'continue', 'ongoing', 'possible', 'predict', 'plans', 'target', 'seek', 'would' or 'should', and contain statements made by the company regarding the intended results of its strategy. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are warned that none of these forward-looking statements offers any guarantee of future performance. Biotalys' actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements. Biotalys makes no undertaking whatsoever to publish updates or adjustments to these forward-looking statements, unless required to do so by law. 1In 2025 Biotalys on average had 59 employees. 2Sources: Kynetec 2020; Biotalys estimates. Attachments Orna's in vivo CAR-T pipeline includes potential best-in-class programs to reset the immune system and address B cell-driven autoimmune diseases Acquisition provides a broad platform for long-term innovation in genetic medicine and in vivo cell engineering INDIANAPOLIS and WATERTOWN, Mass., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) and Orna Therapeutics, Inc., a biotechnology company dedicated to engineering immune cells in vivo, today announced entry into a definitive agreement for Lilly to acquire Orna. Orna is advancing a new class of therapeutics utilizing engineered circular RNA paired with novel lipid nanoparticles to allow the patient's own body to generate cell therapies that can treat underlying disease. Orna's lead program is ORN-252, a clinical trial-ready, CD19 targeting in vivo Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy designed to treat B cell-driven autoimmune diseases. Experiments to date suggest that Orna's circular RNA platform may deliver more durable expression of therapeutic proteins and therefore unlock treatments that are not feasible with current RNA or cell therapy platforms. "Early autologous CAR-T studies have shown the promise of cell therapy for patients with autoimmune diseases, but the complexity, cost, and logistics of ex vivo approaches make it challenging to deliver these breakthroughs to the broader population of patients who need them," said Francisco Ramirez-Valle M.D., Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Head of Immunology Research and Early Clinical Development. "We look forward to working with Orna colleagues to potentially unlock an entirely new class of genetic medicines and cell therapies for patients who today have limited or no treatment options." "At Orna, we believe our circular RNA technology paired with our best-in-class LNP delivery platform have the potential to unlock in vivo CAR-T therapies for patients across a wide range of B cell-driven autoimmune diseases. We are excited to join forces with Lilly, an industry leader in the development of patient-centric therapeutics to realize the full potential of these technologies," said Joe Bolen, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Orna Therapeutics." Under the terms of the agreement, Lilly will acquire Orna, and Orna shareholders could receive up to $2.4 billion in cash, inclusive of an upfront payment and subsequent payments upon achievement of certain clinical development milestones. Lilly will determine the accounting treatment of this transaction in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) upon closing. This transaction will thereafter be reflected in Lilly's financial results and financial guidance. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is acting as legal counsel to Lilly. Lazard is acting as financial advisor to Orna. Goodwin Procter LLP is acting as legal counsel to Orna. About Lilly Lilly is a medicine company turning science into healing to make life better for people around the world. We've been pioneering life-changing discoveries for nearly 150 years, and today our medicines help tens of millions of people across the globe. Harnessing the power of biotechnology, chemistry and genetic medicine, our scientists are urgently advancing new discoveries to solve some of the world's most significant health challenges: redefining diabetes care; treating obesity and curtailing its most devastating long-term effects; advancing the fight against Alzheimer's disease; providing solutions to some of the most debilitating immune system disorders; and transforming the most difficult-to-treat cancers into manageable diseases. With each step toward a healthier world, we're motivated by one thing: making life better for millions more people. That includes delivering innovative clinical trials that reflect the diversity of our world and working to ensure our medicines are accessible and affordable. F-LLY About Orna Therapeutics Orna Therapeutics is dedicated to designing and delivering a new class of fully engineered circular RNA (oRNA) therapeutics to unlock the potential of RNA medicine to treat diseases anywhere in the body. Orna's oRNA transcripts have advantages over traditional mRNA approaches, including simplified production, improved formulation into lipid nanoparticles, and superior protein expression. Its industry-leading LNP-based delivery systems and comprehensive editing programs position Orna to advance novel RNA medicines with vast potential to transform patient care. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements (as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) about the benefits of Lilly's acquisition of Orna and Orna's Circular RNA therapeutics and LNP delivery platform, including its CAR-T program, and reflects Lilly's current beliefs and expectations. However, as with any such undertaking, there are substantial risks and uncertainties in implementing the acquisition and in the process of drug research, development, and commercialization. Among other things, there can be no guarantee that Lilly will realize the expected benefits of the acquisition, that the acquisition will achieve the results discussed in this release or that the acquisition will yield commercially successful products. For further discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from Lilly's expectations, see Lilly's Form 10-K and Form 10-Q filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, Lilly undertakes no duty to update forward-looking statements to reflect events after the date of this release. No Offer or Solicitation This communication is for information purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, an offer, invitation or the solicitation of an offer or invitation to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, pursuant to the proposed acquisition or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. Refer to: Ashley Hennessey; [email protected]; 317-416-4363 (Media) Michael Czapar; [email protected]; 317-617-0983 (Investors) Alex Lobo; [email protected] (Orna Investors) SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company Related Links https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1756482/5777843/Cropped_Lilly_Logo.jpg https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2889517/Orna_Logo_R_Full_Color.jpg VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Sands & Associates, British Columbia's largest firm of Licensed Insolvency Trustees, has been awarded the 2026 Consumer Choice Award in the Licensed Insolvency Trustee category for Vancouver, Surrey, Abbotsford, Kelowna and Victoria. Recognized for its compassionate, client-focused approach and trusted financial-recovery expertise, Sands & Associates continues to lead the province in helping individuals and families achieve a financial fresh start. Founded in 1990, Sands & Associates has grown into a multi-award-winning firm providing professional debt help solutions across British Columbia. Led by a team of non-judgmental Licensed Insolvency Trustees and insolvency professionals, the firm helps thousands of residents navigate financial challenges with dignity and confidence every year. "Our philosophy has always been to pair expert debt help with genuine care," says Blair Mantin, President of Sands & Associates. "We believe in being debt-smart with heart - supporting people through one of life's most stressful experiences with empathy, respect and practical solutions." Debt Help with a Human Approach Sands & Associates provides government-qualified debt relief solutions including Consumer Proposals and personal bankruptcy filings, as well as credit counselling and financial-wellness support. The firm's services are designed to be transparent, judgment-free and tailored to each client's unique circumstances. During a free, confidential consultation, clients receive clear, unbiased advice on every available option. From there, Sands & Associates' team guides them through each step - from consultation to completion - with flexible options for in-person or virtual appointments. "We know how overwhelming debt can feel," says Blair. "Our goal is to help people see that financial recovery is not only possible - it's achievable, and we're here to make it easier." Serving Communities Across British Columbia With conveniently located offices in Vancouver, Surrey, Abbotsford, Kelowna, Victoria and throughout the province, Sands & Associates provides accessible support to clients wherever they are. The firm's hybrid service model also allows clients to complete their entire debt relief process from home, ensuring safety, privacy and flexibility. Each Sands & Associates office is staffed by caring professionals who take time to understand every client's unique situation. This personal approach, combined with expert financial knowledge, has earned the firm exceptional reviews and repeat recognition from both clients and consumer research bodies. Recognition Based on Independent Research The Consumer Choice Award is determined through independent market research that measures consumer satisfaction, reputation and overall service excellence. For Sands & Associates, this recognition underscores the trust they've earned among BC residents and highlights their consistent dedication to quality and compassion in financial recovery. "We're truly honoured to receive this award again," says Blair. "It reflects the relationships we've built with clients across British Columbia and the difference that care and understanding can make in the debt relief journey." A Continued Commitment to Empowering Financial Recovery As economic pressures continue to affect Canadians, Sands & Associates remains committed to expanding access to debt-education resources and improving financial literacy across the province. The firm continues to innovate its client experience with secure digital tools and enhanced outreach to ensure that debt help remains approachable, effective and stigma-free. Sands & Associates' mission is clear - to help British Columbians move beyond debt and toward a future of financial wellness. To learn more about Sands & Associates or to book a free consultation, visit www.sands-trustee.com. About Sands & Associates Sands & Associates is an award-winning firm of Licensed Insolvency Trustees providing debt help services across British Columbia. Founded in 1990, the firm helps individuals and families achieve a financial fresh start through government-qualified solutions such as Consumer Proposals and personal bankruptcy, as well as education and budgeting support. With more than 35 years of experience, Sands & Associates is known for its compassionate, client-focused approach to debt help. About Consumer Choice Award Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence in North America since 1987. Its rigorous selection process ensures that only the most outstanding service providers in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Visit www.ccaward.com to learn more. Contact Information: Sumi Saleh Communications Manager ssaleh@ccaward.com SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/sands-and-associates-wins-2026-consumer-choice-award-for-license-1134590 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Gemdale Gold Inc. (TSXV:GEMG) ("Gemdale" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") have been approved for listing on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") and will commence trading under the ticker symbol "GEMG" at the opening of the market on February 11, 2026. In connection with the listing, the Company's previously issued subscription receipts have automatically converted (without payment of additional consideration) into an aggregate of 4,276,550 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of C$1.00 per Unit for gross proceeds of C$4,276,550. Each Unit consists of one Common Share and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"), with each whole such Warrant exercisable at a price of C$1.30 per Common Share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. The gross proceeds of the subscription receipt offering were held in escrow pending satisfaction of customary release conditions, which conditions have been satisfied and which proceeds have now been released to the Company. In connection with the financing, the Company paid a finder's fee to Leede Financial Inc. in the aggregate amount of C$15,660, payable upon the release of escrowed funds, and issued 15,660 broker warrants (the "Broker Warrants"), each exercisable to acquire one Common Share of the Company. "Listing on the TSX Venture Exchange is an important milestone for Gemdale," said Patrick Chidley, Executive Chairman. "It is a natural progression, following several years operating as a private company, during which Gemdale, together with its partners, has invested approximately C$13 million in advancing its mineral exploration properties, including ongoing exploration at the Company's flagship project, the Pontio Gold Project. We believe the listing will enhance our visibility and access to the public capital markets as we continue to advance our exploration programs. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank our team, shareholders, advisors and partners for their support, as we move forward as a public company." Upon listing on the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company is expected to have 21,102,722 common shares issued and outstanding, of which 8,328,960 common shares will be subject to escrow or other resale restrictions in accordance with National Policy 46-201 - Escrow for Initial Public Offerings ("NP 46-201"). Strategic Investment by Eldorado Gold Corporation In advance of the listing, the Company entered into a subscription agreement dated January 15, 2026 (the "Eldorado Subscription Agreement") with Eldorado Gold Corporation ("Eldorado"), pursuant to which Eldorado agreed to purchase 2,000,000 units of the Company (each, an "Eldorado Unit") at a price of C$1.20 per Eldorado Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of C$2,400,000. Each Eldorado Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, an "Eldorado Warrant"). The issuance of the Eldorado Units is conditional upon, among other things, the listing of the Company's Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange and will be completed no later than February 15, 2026. No finder's fees or commissions will be paid in connection with the issuance of the Eldorado Units. The net proceeds of the financing are expected to be used to advance exploration at the Company's principal properties and for general corporate purposes. More About Gemdale Gold Gemdale Gold Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on gold and critical minerals in Finland. Over the past eight years as a private company, the Company has assembled a portfolio of exploration licenses located in established and emerging mineral districts. The Company's flagship asset is the Pontio Gold Project in Western Finland, where more than 10,000 metres of drilling have been completed to date, primarily along the "M2 Trend". Drilling has intersected near-surface gold mineralization along an interpreted strike length of approximately four kilometres. The Company intends to undertake an additional drill program to further delineate known zones of mineralization. Additional technical information about the Pontio Gold Project is contained in the Company's technical report entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Pontio Project, Central Ostrobothnia, Finland", available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+. The Company's wholly owned principal projects include: Pontio Gold Project (Western Finland) : Historical and recent drilling has outlined near-surface gold mineralization along a multi-kilometre trend that remains open along strike and at depth. Isoneva (Western Finland) : Exploration stage gold project located proximal to extensive boulder train anomalies. The property is subject to an option agreement (the " Isoneva Option ") with Nordique Resources Inc. (" Nordique ") pursuant to which Nordique may earn a 100% interest by, among other things, funding exploration expenditures over a three-year period and making additional financial commitments to the Company. For more information on the Isoneva Option, please see the Company's final long form prospectus dated January 30, 2026 under the heading " Business of the Corporation - January 1, 2025 to the date hereof ". Lapland Projects (Northern Finland) : A group of exploration permits and applications located within a recognized gold and base-metal exploration region, in proximity to several recent regional discoveries. Kumiseva (Western Finland) : Copper-nickel-platinum-palladium exploration license where historical government drilling has been completed. Savo / Rantasalmi (Southeastern Finland) : Exploration license application area containing a historical inferred resource estimate prepared by a prior operator of 3.23 million tonnes grading 2.7 g/t gold for approximately 276,000 ounces of gold (see the Company's news release dated May 15, 2023). The resource estimate is considered historical in nature, and a qualified person has not completed sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The Company is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and the historical estimate should not be relied upon. Additional disclosure, including the Company's financial statements, technical reports, news releases and other information, can be obtained at https://gemdalegold.com/ or on SEDAR+ at https://www.sedarplus.ca/home/#. Qualified Person and Technical Information Dr. Toby Strauss (CGeol.; EurGeol.), Director, President and CEO of Gemdale is a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). Dr. Strauss is responsible for the accuracy of technical information contained in this news release and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained within. ON BEHALF OF GEMDALE GOLD INC "Dr. Toby Strauss" President & CEO For Further Information Please Contact: Mr. Paul Durham, MSc. Director and EVP Corporate Development Cell: +1 203-940 2538 Email: paul.durham@gemdale.eu Mr. Patrick Chidley, MS, CFA Executive Chairman Cell: +1 917-991 7701 Email: patrick.chidley@gemdale.eu Or visit the Company website at www.gemdalegold.com Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Information Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the commencement of trading of the Company's common shares, the Company's exploration and development plans, anticipated drill programs, potential mineralization, resource estimates, future financing plans, use of proceeds, regulatory approvals, market conditions and the Company's future business objectives. Forward-looking information is generally identified by the use of words such as "plans," "expects," "is expected," "budget," "scheduled," "estimates," "forecasts," "intends," "anticipates," "believes," or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might" or "will" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions that management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made, including, without limitation, assumptions regarding the availability of capital, the receipt of required regulatory approvals, the continuation of favourable market conditions, the accuracy of historical and technical data, and the Company's ability to execute its exploration and development plans as currently contemplated. However, forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation, risks related to exploration and development activities, commodity price fluctuations, availability of financing, regulatory approvals, environmental and permitting risks, operational risks, and general economic and market conditions. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Although the Company believes the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws. SOURCE: Gemdale Gold Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/gemdale-gold-announces-approval-for-listing-on-the-tsx-venture-exchange-1134666 CALGARY, ALBERTA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Resolve Legal Group has been recognized with the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in the Family Law category for Southern Alberta. This recognition reflects the firm's unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional legal representation while providing clients with comprehensive, wraparound support services. Since its founding, Resolve Legal Group has built a reputation for going beyond traditional legal services. The firm's approach combines legal expertise with practical, emotional, and community-based resources, ensuring clients are supported not only in the courtroom but in all aspects of their lives during major transitions. This unique, client-centered model has earned them the trust of families across Southern Alberta and the respect of peers in the legal community. A Holistic Approach to Family Law Resolve Legal Group stands apart in its mission to set families up for success long after their legal matters are resolved. The team integrates a variety of multi-disciplinary services into their practice, including access to financial advisors, mental health professionals, parenting experts, and housing resources. This holistic approach ensures clients are positioned to rebuild, adapt, and thrive after challenging life events. "Family law is about more than legal outcomes - it's about helping people navigate life changes with dignity, clarity, and the resources they need to move forward," says the Resolve Legal Group team. "Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment while offering strategic, effective representation." Client-Centered, Solution-Focused Service Every client's situation is unique, which is why the firm emphasizes personalized strategies designed to reflect each family's specific needs and goals. Whether assisting with separation agreements, custody arrangements, property division, or other family law matters, Resolve Legal Group prioritizes solutions that minimize conflict and encourage collaboration whenever possible. The firm's lawyers are skilled in various methods of dispute resolution, from negotiation and mediation to litigation when necessary. By tailoring their approach to each case, they help clients maintain control over outcomes while protecting the well-being of all involved, especially children. Support Beyond the Courtroom Understanding that legal disputes often coincide with emotional and logistical challenges, Resolve Legal Group offers programs and partnerships that extend support far beyond legal advice. Clients have access to: Community connections that assist with housing, employment, and financial planning. Mental health resources to support emotional resilience during stressful transitions. Workshops and educational programs that equip families with the tools to manage change and plan for the future. This comprehensive service model ensures that clients are not left to navigate post-resolution life on their own. Commitment to the Southern Alberta Community Since its inception, Resolve Legal Group has been deeply invested in the Southern Alberta community. The firm frequently participates in local initiatives, offers educational resources, and supports organizations that align with their mission of helping families succeed. This ongoing commitment reinforces their reputation as both skilled legal advocates and trusted community partners. Why Clients Choose Resolve Legal Group Clients choose Resolve Legal Group for their: Expertise in family law , backed by years of experience and a track record of positive outcomes. Holistic, multidisciplinary approach that addresses every aspect of life during and after a legal matter. Compassionate, client-focused service that prioritizes dignity, respect, and long-term well-being. This dedication has helped the firm build strong, lasting relationships with clients who value both professional excellence and genuine care. To learn more about Resolve Legal Group's services or to schedule a consultation, visit www.resolvelegalgroup.com or CLICK HERE. About Resolve Legal Group: Resolve Legal Group is a Southern Alberta law firm specializing in family law. With a client-focused approach and holistic support services, the firm helps families navigate legal matters and life transitions with compassion and expertise. Learn more at www.resolvelegalgroup.com. About Consumer Choice Award: Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence in North America since 1987. Its rigorous selection process ensures that only the most outstanding service providers in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Visit www.ccaward.com to learn more. Contact Information: Sumi Saleh Communications Manager ssaleh@ccaward.com SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/resolve-legal-group-receives-consumer-choice-award-for-family-la-1134594 Belle Farm, a Real Estate project designed with Community and the Climate in mind NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / by Holly Mosher, Belle Farm My business partner Kathleen had been looking at some land in Wisconsin for over a year when we first spoke about it. The City of Middleton (near Madison) asked Kathleen if we would consider building much-needed housing. I knew that Madison was always on the Best Places to Live lists and that they were growing rapidly compared to the rest of the country. I thought back to what my father always said: "You need to sell things that people need, and people NEED housing." I also saw so many people struggling with affordability, both in rentals and ownership. So, building housing could be a social enterprise creating housing while also doing so in a green way aligned with our values. I encouraged Kathleen to visit an intentional community in Georgia called Serenbe. She was struck by the thoughtful land planning and the sense of place - the walkability and the way nature and community were interwoven. We worked closely with their team in order to build something similar in Wisconsin. The result was Belle Farm, a gorgeous walkable neighborhood featuring a wonderful mix of housing, neighborhood amenities, and commercial spaces. With Phil Tabb and the team helping us design the overall layout of the land, a sense of community and flow emerged. Our guiding principles are wellness, sustainability, time outside, camaraderie, presence, respite, and so much joy. Read Holly's full article and see renderings as this real estate project is now fully underway with single family homes, multi-family units and an apartment complex, all here- https://greenmoney.com/mixed-use-social-enterprise-and-green-housing-at-belle-farm ====== View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from GreenMoney Journal on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: GreenMoney Journal Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/greenmoney-journal Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: GreenMoney Journal View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/publishing-and-media/mixed-use-green-housing-and-social-enterprise-1134844 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Steve Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer of LongPoint Asset Management Inc. ("LongPoint"), joined Keith Wu, Head of Exchange Traded Products at Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), to open the market in celebration of the launch of the SavvyShort (-2X) MSTR ETF (TSX: MSTZ) and the SavvyShort (-2X) COIN ETF (TSX: COID). Cannot view this video? Visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrgZmTU_Gow MSTZ provides two times inverse (-2X) leveraged exposure to MicroStrategy Incorporated Class A common shares, while COID provides two times inverse (-2X) leveraged exposure to Coinbase Global, Inc. Class A common shares. MSTZ and COID offer active Canadian investors TSX-listed solutions, trading in Canadian dollars, that enable tactical positioning of portfolio exposure to Strategy and Coinbase. LongPoint has built a highly specialized ETF platform that is unique within the Canadian ETF marketplace, with a mandate to create multiple distinct families of exceptional ETFs designed to empower Canadian investors. LongPoint was the fastest-growing ETF provider in Canada, on a percentage basis, in 2025 and is one of the newest entrants into the Canadian ETF market, led by a team with more than 70 years of combined experience designing, building, and launching specialized ETFs for Canadian investors. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283195 Source: Toronto Stock Exchange STOCKHOLM, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Finserve Global Security Fund is pleased to welcome Lieutenant General (Ret.) Ben Hodges, former Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, to strengthen the fund's strategic advisory capabilities in geopolitics and security. With more than 30 years of experience in senior military leadership and transatlantic security, General Hodges brings unparalleled insight into geopolitical risk assessment and long-term security trends. He will provide independent strategic analysis of defense alliance developments, geopolitical trends, and sector assessments. His insights will support the Team in evaluating long-term capability requirements and companies' positioning within the security landscape, informing portfolio allocation across defense, cybersecurity, and space sectors. General Hodges will work closely with Head of the Advisory Board, Lieutenant General (Ret.) Karl Engelbrektson, former Chief of the Swedish Army and Sweden's military representative to NATO and the EU, as well as Lead Portfolio Manager Joakim Agerback. "Ben Hodges brings strategic clarity, strong credibility, and the ability to assess transatlantic rebalancing and developments," says Karl Engelbrektson. "His deep understanding of deterrence, military readiness, and geopolitical risks strengthens our ability to interpret security developments from a long-term investor perspective". Hodges is delighted to be joining the Advisory Board at such a critical moment for European security. "The investment decisions made today will", he said, "shape the defence capabilities and deterrence posture of tomorrow. I look forward to contributing my strategic insights in helping to identify the companies and technologies that will support long-term security and stability." As Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, General Hodges led U.S. land forces across the continent and played a central role in strengthening NATO's deterrence posture, military mobility, and readiness in the post-Crimea security environment. His experience spans alliance interoperability, logistics, rapid reinforcement, and host-nation support, capabilities that remain critical to European security. "We are seeing rapid development in new forms of defence capabilities, as well as the importance of how these integrate with traditional military systems and command-and-control structures. Ben Hodges brings unique insight into assessing these capabilities, the relevant suppliers, and how procurement chains may evolve. This adds a distinct and valuable dimension to our investment process." says Joakim Agerback, Lead Portfolio Manager. The appointment marks an important milestone in the continued development of Finserve Global Security Fund, as the Fund further strengthens both its Portfolio Management Team and Advisory Board. For further information about Finserve Global Security Fund, please contact: Head of Sales Iberia Niclas Gutenbrink niclas.gutenbrink@finserve.se +34 910 19 41 05 +46791021552 For further information, please contact: Lead Portfolio Manager Joakim Agerback joakim.agerback@finserve.se +46-70-892 24 30 About Finserve AB Finserve Nordic AB operates under the supervision and control of the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen). Finserve offers investment solutions that contribute to higher risk-adjusted returns in traditional asset portfolios through a focused range of equity and fixed income funds with unique return profiles. This is marketing communication. Please read the prospectus and fact sheet before making any final investment decisions. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2889970/Finserve_Ben_Hodges.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2889969/Finserve_Nordic_AB_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/finserve-global-security-fund-announces-the-appointment-of-lieutenant-general-ret-ben-hodges-to-the-funds-advisory-board-as-principal-strategic-advisor-for-geopolitics-and-security-302682697.html LILONGWE, MALAWI / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / In Malawi's Nkhotakota District, one of the areas hardest hit by recent flooding, Feed the Children Malawi has delivered emergency nutrition and clean water support to flood-affected communities, reaching approximately 50,000 people, including 7,195 children under the age of five, as part of a coordinated humanitarian response. Photo: Deputy Minister of Health, Hon. Charles Chilambula, MP, receives a warm welcome from Feed the Children and Nkhotakota District Council stakeholders upon arrival at Liwalazi Camp. Credit: Wongani Mkandawire / Malawi News Agency Flooding Displaces Families and Disrupts Essential Services Severe flooding in January displaced thousands of families, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted essential services, including early childhood care. Communities were left without reliable access to clean drinking water, nutritious food, and childcare services, significantly increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and malnutrition, particularly among young children. Families in displacement camps reported losing food supplies, household items, and access to clean water overnight, leaving young children especially vulnerable in the immediate aftermath of the floods. Protecting Young Children During a Critical Period Feed the Children Malawi supports 205 Community-Based Childcare Centers (CBCCs) in Nkhotakota District, serving more than 5,923 children with daily nutritious meals. The floods affected 148 CBCCs and 54 children's corners, forcing families into temporary displacement camps and interrupting critical early childhood services. Working under the Nutrition Cluster, co-chaired by the Department of Nutrition, HIV and AIDS in the Ministry of Health and Sanitation and UNICEF, Feed the Children deployed a disaster response team to ensure continuity of nutrition services, access to clean drinking water, and on-the-ground operational support for both CBCC beneficiaries and other displaced families. Feed the Children's long-standing presence in Nkhotakota District enabled a rapid response, leveraging existing CBCC networks, community leaders, and government coordination structures. "As a child-centered organization, we are committed to safeguarding vulnerable communities during this critical time," said McHenry Makwelero, Country Director, Feed the Children Malawi. "Our priority is to protect the health and dignity of Malawi's most vulnerable children and families during this crisis, and beyond." Photo: Adults and children assemble at a community distribution point while VitaMeal is provided to households. Credit: Feed the Children Emergency Nutrition and Clean Water Support To sustain child nutrition during the emergency, Feed the Children delivered 37,170 kg (18,585 packets) of VitaMeal, a fortified porridge produced in Malawi using a locally grown corn-soy blend. Provided through Feed the Children's longstanding partnership with Nu Skin, VitaMeal is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of young children. To reduce the heightened risk of waterborne diseases, the organization also distributed 136 cartons (32,640 sachets) of Procter & Gamble water purification sachets to households living in temporary displacement camps. Clean water demonstrations, handwashing campaigns, and hygiene education sessions were conducted to further protect community health amid an ongoing national cholera outbreak. Delivering Aid Despite Challenging Conditions Distributions took place under difficult field conditions, with damaged infrastructure and limited access to some areas. "Despite poor road conditions, impassable routes, and vehicles getting stuck in mud, we ensured relief items reached all designated camps and even households that have already returned to their villages," said Tawonga Mhango, National Child Sponsorship Coordinator, Feed the Children Malawi. "In addition, we encouraged communities to maintain good hygiene practices within the camps, aiming to prevent the spread of cholera and to help strengthen their resilience against future shocks." Government and Partner Coordination The response followed a visit by the Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation, Hon. Charles Chilambura, to Liwalazi and Nkhunga Camps on January 15, 2026, where he conducted a symbolic handover of relief items and met with flood-affected families. Following the visit, Feed the Children scaled up full distributions across affected sites. Feed the Children continues to coordinate closely with the Government of Malawi, district authorities, and humanitarian partners to support families recovering from the floods and to maintain critical nutrition and clean water services as communities rebuild. Looking ahead, Feed the Children plans to collaborate with partners to help restore disrupted childcare services and build greater community resilience, better preparing families to face future climate-related challenges. Photo: VitaMeal and water purification sachet distribution to beneficiaries, facilitated by Julianna Mangani of the Nkhotakota District Council Nutrition Cluster and a local Health Surveillance Assistant. Credit: Feed the Children ABOUT FEED THE CHILDREN Feed the Children is a global movement committed to ending childhood hunger. We believe that no child should go to bed hungry, and so we provide children and families in the U.S. and around the world with the food and essentials kids need to grow and thrive. Through our programs and partnerships, we feed children today while helping their families and communities build resilient futures. In addition to food, we distribute household and personal care items across the United States to help parents and caregivers maintain stable, food-secure households. Internationally, we expand access to nutritious meals, safe water, improved hygiene, and training in sustainable living. Responsible stewards of our resources, we are driven to pursue innovative, holistic, and child-focused solutions to the complex challenges of hunger, food insecurity, and poverty. For children everywhere, we believe that having enough to eat is a fundamental right. Learn how you can help create a world without childhood hunger at feedthechildren.org Feed the Children | Create a world where no child goes to bed hungry For media inquiries, please contact: Richard Presser 405-247-0345 richard.presser@feedthechildren.org SOURCE: Feed the Children View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/feed-the-children-delivers-emergency-nutrition-and-clean-water-s-1134866 TURKU, FI / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Faron Pharmaceuticals (HEL:FARON)(LSE:FARN) - Shareholders of Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd (business ID: 2068285-4, the "Company") are notified of the Extraordinary General Meeting (the "EGM") to be held on 2 March 2026 at 10:00 a.m. EET (Finnish time) at Biocity, meeting room "Presidentti" at Tykistokatu 6, FI-20520 Turku, Finland. The registration of attendees and the distribution of voting slips will commence at the meeting venue at 9:30 a.m. EET (Finnish time). A. MATTERS ON THE AGENDA OF THE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING At the EGM the following matters will be considered: 1 Opening of the meeting 2 Calling the meeting to order 3 Election of persons to scrutinise the minutes and to supervise the counting of votes 4 Recording the legality of the meeting 5 Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes 6 Authorising the Board to resolve on the rights offering The Board proposes that the EGM authorises the Board to resolve on the issuance of a maximum of 80,000,000 new shares in a rights offering as follows: The new shares to be issued based on the authorisation will be offered to the Company's shareholders for subscription pursuant to their pre-emptive subscription rights in the same proportion as they already hold shares in the Company. Shares that remain unsubscribed at the end of the subscription period of the rights offering on the basis of shareholders' pre-emptive subscription rights may be offered on a secondary basis for subscription to other shareholders or third parties. The Board is authorised to decide to whom such shares that remain unsubscribed, if any, are offered to. In the event that shares are to be issued to potential subscription guarantors in a secondary offering, the Company would be authorised to issue the shares to itself first without consideration to enable delivery versus payment in respect of such subscription guarantors (without the authorisation being exercised twice in respect of such shares). The Board is authorised to resolve on all other terms and conditions of the rights offering, including the subscription and payment period and the grounds for determining the subscription price. The authorisation would be valid until 30 June 2026 and would not revoke the authorisation granted to the Board by the Annual General Meeting on 21 March 2025 to resolve on issuances of shares, option rights or other special rights entitling to shares. 7 Closing of the meeting B. DOCUMENTS OF THE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING This notice, which includes the decision proposal on the agenda of the EGM, is available on the Company's website at https://www.faron.com/investors. The Company's annual report for 2024, including the financial statements, the report of the Board of Directors and the auditor's report, as well as other documents that shall be kept available for the shareholders according to the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act, are available on the above-mentioned website no later than 23 February 2026. The decision proposal and other documents mentioned above will also be available at the EGM. Copies of these documents and of this notice will be sent to shareholders upon request. The minutes of the EGM will be available on the above-mentioned website as of 16 March 2026 at the latest. C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING 1. The right to participate and registration Each shareholder who on the record date of the EGM, 18 February 2026 is registered in the Company's shareholders' register held by Euroclear Finland Oy has the right to participate in the EGM. A shareholder whose shares are registered on their personal Finnish book-entry account is registered in the Company's shareholders' register. If you do not have a Finnish book-entry account, see section C.3 "Holder of nominee-registered shares (including depositary interest holders)". A shareholder who is registered in the Company's shareholders' register and who wants to participate in the EGM should register for the meeting by no later than 10:00 a.m. EET (Finnish time) on 25 February 2026 by giving a prior notice of participation. The notice must be received before the end of the registration period. Notice of participation can be given: by email to egm@faron.com or by mail to Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd, attn. Kaisa Kytta, Joukahaisenkatu 6, FI-20520 Turku, Finland. When registering, a shareholder shall state their name, personal identification number / business identity code, address, telephone number and the name of a possible proxy representative, legal representative or assistant and the personal identification number of the proxy representative or legal representative. The personal data given by shareholders to the Company is used only in connection with the EGM and the necessary processing of related registrations. Shareholders, and their authorised representatives or proxy representatives should be able to prove their identity and/or right of representation at the meeting venue upon request. 2. Proxy representative and powers of attorney Shareholders may participate in the EGM and exercise their rights at the meeting by way of proxy representation. A proxy representative must present a dated power of attorney or other reliable proof of their authority to represent the shareholder. If a shareholder participates in the EGM by means of several proxy representatives, who represent the shareholder with shares held in different book-entry accounts, the shares represented by each proxy representative shall be identified when registering for the EGM. The Company offers the possibility for shareholders to designate the Company's employee, Paavo Koivisto, director of IR & Funding, as their proxy representative, to represent them at the EGM in accordance with the shareholder's voting instructions. Authorising the designated proxy representative will not accrue any costs for the shareholder, excluding possible postal fees for proxy documents. Possible proxy documents should be sent by email to egm@faron.com and as originals to Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd, attn. Kaisa Kytta, Joukahaisenkatu 6, FI-20520 Turku, Finland before the end of the registration period by which time the proxy documents must be received. In addition to providing proxy documents, the shareholder or their proxy representative must take care of registering for the EGM in the manner described in this notice. 3. Holder of nominee-registered shares (including depositary interest holders) A holder of nominee-registered shares (including depositary interest holders) has the right to participate in the EGM by virtue of such shares based on which the holder would be entitled to be registered in the Company's shareholders' register held by Euroclear Finland Oy on the EGM's record date of 18 February 2026. Additionally, participation requires that the holder of nominee-registered shares is on the basis of such shares being temporarily registered in the Company's shareholders' register held by Euroclear Finland Oy by 10:00 EET (Finnish time) on 25 February 2026. In regard to nominee-registered shares, this constitutes due registration for the EGM. A holder of nominee-registered shares is advised to request the necessary instructions regarding temporary registration in the shareholders' register, the issuing of proxy documents and registration for the EGM from their custodian bank without delay. A holder of nominee-registered shares shall note that custodian banks may apply deadlines for the registration and the provision of voting instructions of holders of nominee-registered shares. The account management organisation of the custodian bank must register a holder of nominee-registered shares who wants to participate in the EGM temporarily in the Company's shareholders' register by the above-mentioned time. 4. Other instructions and information Pursuant to Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act, shareholders who are present at the EGM are entitled to request information regarding the matters on the agenda of the EGM. Changes in shareholding occurring after the record date of the EGM do not affect the right to participate in the EGM or the number of votes held by a shareholder. On the date of this notice, 9 February 2026, the total number of shares and votes in the Company is 119,472,660. The EGM shall be held in Finnish, partially translated into English. Turku, 9 February 2026 FARON PHARMACEUTICALS LTD Board of Directors THE NEW SHARES ISSUED IN THE PROPOSED RIGHTS OFFERING WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE "SECURITIES ACT"), OR UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR TRANSFERRED, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM THE UNITED STATES EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN A TRANSACTION NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Akwaaba Mining Ltd. (TSXV: AML) ("Akwaaba" or the "Company") with profound sadness, announces the passing of Heidy Arocha Rodriguez, a distinguished member of our Board of Directors, who passed away on February 7, 2026. Allan Green, Chairman of the Board, issued the following statement: "On behalf of the entire Board and the employees of Akwaaba, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Heidy's family and loved ones. Heidy was more than just a colleague; She was a person of immense integrity, wisdom, and vision. During her two years of service on our Board, Heidy played a pivotal role in shaping our strategic direction and fostering a culture of excellence." The Board of Directors will communicate further plans regarding the vacancy in due course, in accordance with the company's articles. ABOUT AKWAABA MINING Akwaaba Mining Ltd. is a Canadian-based junior exploration company focused on advancing greenfields and early stage gold projects. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD-LOOKING AND OTHER CAUTIONARY INFORMATION This release contains statements that are forward looking statements and are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. The Company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283255 Source: Akwaaba Mining Ltd. Dieppe, New Brunswick--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Colibri Resource Corporation (TSXV: CBI) ("Colibri" or the "Company") wishes to announce that, further to its news release of February 2, 2026, it has issued 115 convertible debenture units (the "Debenture Units") for gross proceeds of US$115,000 (the "Debenture Offering"). The Debenture Units were acquired by two former debenture holders whose original debentures matured in August 2025. The Debenture Offering does not represent new money to the Company. Each Debenture Unit consists of one (1) US$1,000 principal amount 10% unsecured convertible debenture (the "Debenture") and 5,200 common share purchase warrants (the "Debenture Warrants"). Each Debenture will bear interest at the rate of 10% per annum, calculated in US dollars, from the date of issuance, payable in arrears quarterly and upon maturity or redemption. The Debentures will mature on February 9, 2028 (the "Maturity Date"). The principal amount of the Debentures are convertible into Common Shares, at the holder's option, at the rate C$0.25 per Common Share (the "Conversion Price") any time prior to the Maturity Date. For purposes of the Conversion Price, the Debentures carry a fixed foreign exchange rate of C$1.30 for each US$1 of the principal amount. All interest accrued on the Debentures will be payable in cash only and there can be no conversion of the Debenture interest into Common Shares of the Company. Each Debenture Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at a price of C$0.25 per Common Share for a period of 24 months following the closing of the offering. This Debenture Offering has received TSXV consent. Securities issued under the Debenture Offering will be subject to a statutory four-month-and-one-day hold period. No finder's fees will be payable in connection with this placement. About Colibri Resource Corporation Colibri Resource Corporation is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: CBI) and focused on acquiring, exploring, and developing prospective gold and silver properties in Mexico. The Company holds four high-potential precious-metal projects: (1) 100% ownership of the EP Gold Project in the prolific Caborca Gold Belt, (2) 49% of the Pilar Gold & Silver Project (near-term production potential), and (3) a 60% interest in the Diamante Gold & Silver Project in the Sierra Madre region. For more information, please visit: www.colibriresource.com Forward-Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements". These statements are based on information currently available to the Company and the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results relating to, among other things, results of exploration, project development, reclamation and capital costs of the Company's mineral properties, and the Company's financial condition and prospects, could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements for many reasons such as: changes in general economic conditions and conditions in the financial markets; changes in demand and prices for minerals; litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; technological and operational difficulties encountered in connection with the activities of the Company; and other matters discussed in this news release. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements. These and other factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by the Company or on its behalf, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283287 Source: Colibri Resource Corporation ANAHEIM, CA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Phoenix Motor Inc. (OTC:PEVM) (the "Company") previously announced that its board of directors has adopted resolutions approving a reverse stock split of its common stock, par value $0.0004 per share ("Common Stock"), at a ratio of 1-for-10 (the "Reverse Stock Split"). The Reverse Stock Split will take effect at the close of trading on February 13, 2026, and the Company's Common Stock is expected to begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on the OTC Markets under the Company's existing trading symbol "PEVM," at the market open on February 17, 2026. The new CUSIP number following the Reverse Stock Split will be 7190P401. The Reverse Stock Split was effected by the Company filing a certificate of amendment to its certificate of incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. When the Reverse Stock Split becomes effective, the total number of shares of Common Stock held by each stockholder of the Company will be converted automatically into the number of shares of Common Stock equal to (i) the number of issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock held by each such stockholder immediately prior to the Reverse Stock Split, divided by (ii) ten (10), with such resulting number of shares rounded up to the nearest whole share. As a result, no fractional shares will be issued in connection with the Reverse Stock Split and no cash or other consideration will be paid in connection with any fractional shares that would otherwise have resulted from the Reverse Stock Split. The Reverse Stock Split has no effect on the par value of the Common Stock or authorized shares of common stock or preferred stock. Currently, the Company has approximately 13,382,349 shares of Common Stock outstanding. After the Reverse Stock Split, the Company would have approximately 1,338,235 shares outstanding. Each stockholder's percentage ownership interest in the Company and proportional voting power will remain unchanged, except for minor changes and adjustments that will result from the treatment of fractional shares. The rights and privileges of the holders of shares of Common Stock will be substantially unaffected by the Reverse Stock Split. Stockholders who are holding their shares in electronic form at brokerage firms do not need to take any action, as the effect of the Reverse Stock Split will automatically be reflected in their brokerage accounts. Stockholders holding paper certificates may (but are not required to) send the certificates to the Company's transfer agent and registrar, VStock Transfer, LLC, who will issue a new stock certificate reflecting the Reverse Stock Split to each requesting stockholder. About Phoenix Motor Inc. Phoenix Motor Inc. is redefining commercial transportation with smart, zero-emission electric vehicles. Through our two brands - PhoenixEV (America manufacturing for America market) and EdisonFuture (International resources for international market) - we deliver a full range of heavy-, medium-, and light-duty EVs, from transit and shuttle buses to delivery vans and trucks. With cutting-edge electric drive systems and seamless integration of autonomous driving technologies, Phoenix is driving the future of sustainable transit, logistics, and community mobility - in the U.S. and beyond. To learn more, please visit: phoenixev.ai. Forward-Looking Statements Certain information contained in this press release consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Words such as "will," "would," "may," "intends," "potential," and similar expressions, or the use of future tense, identify forward-looking statements, but their absence does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including market and other conditions. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the SEC. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in information, events or circumstances after the date of this press release, unless required by law. Contact: Denton Peng, CEO Phoenix Motor Inc. 1-916-622-5531 Denton@phoenixev.ai SOURCE: Phoenix Motor Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/automotive/phoenix-motor-inc.-announces-reverse-stock-split-of-its-common-stock-1135206 Smurfit Westrock plc (NYSE: SW, LSE: SWR) today announced it will permanently close one of the paper machines at its La Tuque, Quebec, mill. The machine's annual production capacity of 127,000 tons of solid bleached sulfate (SBS) has faced ongoing scale and cost challenges. The change is part of the company's commitment to strengthen its SBS portfolio and ensure the long-term competitiveness of its paperboard operations. Smurfit Westrock will also close the extrusion facility in Pointe-aux-Trembles, Quebec, which converts grades produced on the La Tuque machine. The closures will result in a limited workforce reduction of approximately 30 at La Tuque and approximately 60 at Pointe-aux-Trembles. The Company will provide support to employees including career transition assistance and relocation opportunities where possible. Impacted employees will receive local severance in accordance with company policy and labor union agreements. "This was a difficult but necessary decision to align with market realities and strengthen our long-term position," said Laurent Sellier, president and CEO of Smurfit Westrock, North America Region. "We remain committed to our people, our operations in Canada and to delivering reliable, quality service to our customers. About Smurfit Westrock Smurfit Westrock is a leading provider of paper-based packaging solutions in the world, with approximately 100,000 employees across 40 countries. www.smurfitwestrock.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260209240537/en/ Contacts: Sinead Gill Director, PR Media Relations, Corporate Communications sinead.gill@smurfitwestrock.com + 353 (0) 1 202 7000 Robby Johnson Director, Communications, Corporate Communications pressoffice@smurfitwestrock.com +1 470-328-6397 Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Cardinal Energy Ltd. (TSX: CJ) ("Cardinal" or the "Company") confirms that our February dividend of $0.06 per common share will be paid on March 16, 2026 to shareholders of record on February 27, 2026. The Board of Directors of Cardinal has declared the dividend payable in cash. This dividend has been designated as an "eligible dividend" for Canadian income tax purposes. About Cardinal Energy Ltd. Cardinal is a Canadian oil and natural gas production company with operations focused on low decline sustainable oil production in Western Canada. The Company's portfolio of conventional and SAGD project inventory offers a complimentary low decline, long life resource base that is ideally suited to sustain our commitment to meaningful dividend returns to shareholders. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283198 Source: Cardinal Energy Ltd. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Grit Metals Corp. (TSXV: FIN) (FSE: K9T) (OTCQB: EUEMF) ("Grit" or the "Company") announces that, subject to regulatory approval, it has engaged the services of Plutus Invest and Consulting GmbH ("Plutus"), to provide the Company with marketing and communications services for a twelve-month term commencing on February 9, 2026. Plutus is providing the consulting services pursuant to a consulting agreement (the "Agreement") entered into with the Company. The services to be provided under the Agreement include consulting services relating to advertising, marketing, public relations strategies and building advertisement-based investor awareness of the Company through Plutus' network in the European investment markets. The Company has agreed to pay Plutus a media budget of 100,000 up to 250,000 for media purchasing. Plutus has a business address at Buchtstrasse 13, Bremen 28195, Germany and can be contacted at (email: contact@plutuinves.de), or by telephone: (+49 42117540174). Plutus and its principals are arm's length to the Company and Plutus has no present interest, directly or indirectly, in the Company or its securities, though it may acquire securities in the future. Marco Messina is the principal of Plutus and will be responsible for all activities related to the Company. The Agreement may be terminated by either party at any time. There are no performance factors contained in the Agreement and Plutus will not receive common shares or options to purchase common shares of the Company as compensation. The Agreement and the engagement of Plutus pursuant thereto remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Grit Metals Corp. Grit Metals Corp. is a junior exploration company focused on lithium-cesium-tantalum pegmatites in central Finland. The Company's exploration licences are located within 1 km of Keliber's mine and production complex, a 600 million investment by Sibanye-Stillwater Limited in partnership with Finnish Minerals Group (www.mineralsgroup.fi). The Keliber complex, which is currently in commissioning, will comprise open-pit and underground mining, a central spodumene concentrator and a lithium hydroxide plant at tidewater in Kokkola, creating a complete hard-rock lithium supply chain in the region (source: www.sibanyestillwater.com). Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information This new release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Such statements include, without limitation, statements obtaining regarding regulatory approvals, including those of the TSX-V; the anticipated effects of the investor awareness campaigns; the future results of operations, performance and achievements of the Company, including the presence of lithium mineralization at, and the exploration and development potential of, the Finland Pegmatite Project. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that such expectations will prove to be correct. All such forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of their experience and factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. This information, however, is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from this forward-looking information include obtaining regulatory approvals, including those of the TSX-V, in a timely manner or at all; Plutus performing its obligations under the Agreement as anticipated; market conditions supporting improved liquidity of the shares; economic conditions; mineral prices; and anticipated costs and expenditures; the costs of any anticipated work programs and the ability to fund such costs; required approvals in connection with any work programs and the ability to obtain such approvals; risks inherent in exploration as well as those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283292 Source: Grit Metals Corp. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release, publication, distribution or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / NV Gold Corporation (TSXV:NVX)(OTCQB:NVGLF)(FSE:8NV) ("NV Gold" or the "Company"), announces that, further to its News Release of January 27, 2026, it has completed its non-brokered private placement whereby it issued 3,225,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.20 per Unit for gross proceeds $645,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit consists of one common share (each, a "Share") and one transferable common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable at a price of $0.50 and expires 2 years from the date of issuance, subject to an acceleration right held by the Company if the Shares have a closing price of over $0.50 per Share for a period of three (3) consecutive trading days at any time from the date that is four months and one day after the Closing on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"), in which case the Company may accelerate the expiry of the Warrants by giving notice to the holders thereof (by disseminating a news release advising of the acceleration of the expiry date of the Warrants) and, in such case, the Warrants will expire on the thirtieth (30th) day after the date of such notice. All securities issued in connection with the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day after closing of the Offering. In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Company paid cash finder's fees of $2,400 to one eligible finder. The aggregate gross proceeds from the Offering are expected to be used for general working capital. An insider participated in the Offering and is considered to be a "related party" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Accordingly, the issuance is considered to be a "related party transaction" within the meaning of MI 61-101 but is exempt from the valuation requirement of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.5(b) as the Company's common shares are not listed on a specified market and from the minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration of the shares to be issued to the related party does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. None of the securities sold in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About NV Gold Corporation NV Gold Corporation is a well-organized exploration company with ~26.2 million shares issued and no debt. NV Gold has 12 exploration projects in Nevada, and one in Switzerland. The Company has three priority projects including Slumber, Triple T and SW Pipe. The Company is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Reno, Nevada and is focused on delivering value through mineral discoveries in Nevada, USA. Leveraging its expansive property portfolio, its highly experienced in-house technical team, and its extensive geological data library, 2026 promises to be highly productive for NV Gold. On behalf of the Board of Directors, John Watson, Chairman and CEO For further information, visit the Company's website at www.nvx.gold or contact: Freeform Communications at 604.245.0054 Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: NV Gold Corporation View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/nv-gold-announces-closing-of-non-brokered-private-placement-1135404 VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Mako Mining Corp. ("Mako" or the "Company") (TSXV:MKO)(OTCQX:MAKOF) announces that it has postponed the Company's special meeting of shareholders (the "Special Meeting") that was originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The Company and Sailfish Royalty Corp. ("Sailfish") are working to finalize a restructuring of the consideration payable for the proposed acquisition (the "Acquisition") of the Mt. Hamilton Gold-Silver Project (the "Mt. Hamilton Project") located in White Pine County, Nevada, USA, which quantum will remain US$40 million. The restructuring of the consideration payable is being undertaken to preserve maximum flexibility for the Company to develop the Mt. Hamilton Gold-Silver Project as currently anticipated, as well as derisking the impact of encumbrances over potential future development scenarios at the Mt. Hamilton Project more broadly. The restructured consideration will be reflected in amended and restated transaction agreements, as well as a supplement to the management information circular dated December 23, 2025 together with an updated proxy/voting information form. Once finalized, the amended and restated transaction agreements, together with the revised supplemental proxy materials, will be made available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Closing of the Acquisition will not be subject to any additional closing conditions, and remains subject to the approval of the Company's shareholders at the Special Meeting, the approval of Sailfish's shareholders and the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Akiba Leisman, CEO of Mako, states "this past week, the Trump administration in the United States announced the establishment of Project Vault and the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial, which Mako views as a significant change to mining industrial policy in the USA. As previously disclosed in the Company's press release on September 30, 2025, the Mt. Hamilton Project hosts a tungsten target located below, and independent of, the gold and silver resource. Tungsten's role as a U.S.-designated critical mineral potentially positions Mt. Hamilton as a strategic asset in supporting domestic supply chain security. When the original Mt. Hamilton transaction was announced, it could have potentially included a 2% Net Smelter Return royalty on all minerals, inclusive of tungsten. Management has concluded that to preserve maximum flexibility on how we plan on advancing the fully permitted Mt. Hamilton Project, we intend to restructure the Mt. Hamilton consideration in an economically equivalent way, which will only be repaid through deliveries of gold ounces coming from Mako's other projects. Details of this proposed restructuring will be made available imminently, with shareholders given ample time to review the new terms for the meeting now scheduled for March 3, 2026. In the meantime, the Company has engaged a political advisor, and discussions have commenced with United States Government officials and other critical metals companies on how to potentially advance the Mt. Hamilton Project as quickly as possible. We will update the market on how these discussions progress in due course." Details of the Postponed Special Meeting To allow Mako shareholders reasonable time to consider and vote on the proposed Acquisition once the amended transaction agreements are finalized and a supplement to the current management information circular for the Special Meeting is filed on SEDAR+ and mailed to shareholders, Mako is postponing the Special Meeting to March 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM (Toronto time). The record date for determining Mako shareholders eligible to vote at the Special Meeting remains January 2, 2026. The deadline for Mako shareholders to return their completed proxies or voting instruction forms has been extended to 10:00 AM on February 27, 2026 (Toronto time). About Mako Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development and exploration company. The Company operates the high-grade San Albino gold mine in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, which ranks as one of the highest-grade open pit gold mines globally and offers district-scale exploration potential. Mako also owns the Moss Mine in Arizona, an open pit gold mine in northwestern Arizona. Mako also holds a 100% interest in the PEA-stage Eagle Mountain Project in Guyana, South America. Eagle Mountain is the subject of engineering, environmental and mine permitting activity. For further information about Mako, please contact Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer, at (917) 558-5289 or aleisman@makominingcorp.com, or visit our website at www.makominingcorp.com and our profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "outlook", "forecasts", "projection", "prospects", "strategy", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such terminology which states that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will", "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, Mako's intention to hold the Special Meeting at 10:00 am on March 3, 2026, finalize amended agreement reflecting a restricting of the consideration payable under the proposed Acquisition, the timing for filing a supplement to the Company's management information circular dated December 23, 2025; the conditions to closing the proposed Acquisition, including receipt of approval by Mako shareholders and the approval of the TSXV to complete of the Acquisition. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made and is inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. These risks include the Company not holding the Mako Meeting on the timeline contemplated herein; the Company or Sailfish not obtaining the requisite shareholder and regulatory approval required to complete the proposed Acquisition in a timely manner or at all, and Mako remaining responsible for the interim period costs, expenses and liabilities in connection with the Mt. Hamilton Project prior to obtaining all required approvals and closing the proposed Acquisition; changes in market conditions and the execution of Mako's business strategies; as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the Company's disclosure documents filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Although Mako has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors that could cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Mako disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. SOURCE: Mako Mining Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/mako-mining-announces-intention-to-restructure-the-mt.-hamilton-acquisition-consi-1135409 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - EagleOne Metals Corp. (CSE: EAGL) (FSE: I2J) ("EagleOne" or the "Company") ") is pleased to report that it has completed a detailed review of results from its 2024 field exploration program and has identified several highly prospective gold and copper targets on its 100%-owned Hebecourt Township property (the "Property"), located within the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Property is strategically situated midway between the major mining centres of Timmins, Ontario and Val-d'Or, Quebec, and demonstrates strong potential for both gold and copper mineralization. The Abitibi Greenstone Belt is one of the world's most prolific gold-producing regions, having historically produced over 200 million ounces of gold, with total gold content, including reserves and resources, exceeding 300 million ounces. The belt has hosted more than 100 operating mines and accounts for over 90% of Canada's total gold production. Located within Ontario and Quebec-two of Canada's top mining jurisdictions-the region benefits from excellent infrastructure, skilled labour, and mining-friendly regulatory frameworks. In addition to gold, the Abitibi Greenstone Belt has also been a significant source of copper, with historical production exceeding 15 billion pounds, and continues to host strong potential for future copper discoveries. Exploration completed to date on the Property indicates that indicator elements have migrated upward through a typically impervious clay layer, providing insight into potential mineralization at depth. When combined with coincident magnetic, electromagnetic, and induced polarization geophysical data, several compelling exploration targets have been generated. Two priority anomalies targeting copper and gold have been identified adjacent to an intrusive diorite contact using the integrated geochemical and geophysical methods described above. The Property benefits from excellent year-round access via all-weather roads and is located just south of the major transportation corridor connecting Timmins via Highway 101 and Val-d'Or via Route 388. The nearby communities of Matheson, Ontario and Duparquet, Quebec provide access to skilled labour, services, and infrastructure to support ongoing exploration activities. Letter of Intent for the Acquisition of Surupampa The Company is also pleased to announce an extension of the date for execution of a definitive agreement with Surupampa Metals Corp. ("Surupampa") to March 8, 2026. The extension provides additional time for the parties to finalize the terms of the definitive agreement and complete mutual due diligence. The parties are working diligently towards completion of this process in the coming weeks, with the goal of proceeding with a closing of the transaction thereafter. Closing of the acquisition and the issuance of consideration shares remain subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange. For additional details regarding Surupampa and the proposed acquisition, please refer to the Company's news release dated December 8, 2025. Consulting and Awareness Agreement. The Company is also please to announce that it has entered into a consulting and awareness service agreement with Hillside Consulting and Media Inc. ("Hillside"), located at 474 Main Street, Penticton, British Columbia (Stephen Giberson, CEO; hillsideconsultingmedia@gmail.com), to provide ad copy and content writing, search engine optimization, video and ad creation, and e-mail and SMS advertising, as well as content creation. Hillside will begin providing the services on the date hereof for a period of two months. In consideration of the services provided, the Company will pay Hillside a cash fee of $10,000 per month. No securities will be issued as compensation for the services. To the best of the Company's knowledge, Hillside does not currently own any securities of the Company. About EagleOne Metals Corp. EagleOne is a Canadian-based precious and base metal explorer that holds the option to acquire a 100% interest, subject to a 2% net smelter returns royalty, in 11 claims comprising the Magusi West Gold Project, which is located in Abitibi greenstone belt of Quebec - one of the world's most productive and highest ranked gold mining jurisdictions. The Company seeks to unlock shareholder value through the diligent exploration of carefully selected exploration projects in some of Canada's most prolific exploration and mining areas. EagleOne is committed to all stakeholders including shareholders, all its partners and the environment in which it operates. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in CSE policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation: statements regarding the Company's exploration plans at the Hebecourt Property, that the Company will be able to explore the Property, establish a drill program as anticipated, that the results of the drill program and further exploration will yield promising results and the Company's beliefs regarding the prospective nature of the Property are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "will", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations also include, but are not limited to risks relating to: the risk that the Company will be unable to execute a definitive agreement with Surupampa, statements regarding consideration payments to be made pursuant to the definitive agreement, the timing thereof, the Company's ability to satisfy the payment obligations under the definitive agreement, the anticipated receipt of necessary approvals for closing the transaction, including the acceptance of the Canadian Securities Exchange or that the Company will be unable to close the transaction on the timelines currently anticipated by management and the risk that the Company will be unable to complete the exploration work contemplated or that the results of such exploration will not yield positive results. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future event or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Neither does the Company nor any of its representatives make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, sufficiency or completeness of the information in this document. Neither the Company nor any of its representatives shall have any liability whatsoever, under contract, tort, trust or otherwise, to you or any person resulting from the use of the information in this document by you or any of your representatives or for omissions from the information in this document. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283298 Source: EagleOne Metals Corporation SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a highly successful Kickstarter campaign and multiple industry honors, the world's first smart AI dual-tracking security camera is launching on Amazon. This milestone makes it easier than ever for consumers worldwide to experience Baseus' award-winning innovation and its vision of "Built on Security, Elevated by Intelligence, Made for Everyday Life" through the Baseus X1 Pro. The X1 Pro has demonstrated strong market and industry validation, securing support from more than 2800 backers and raising USD 821,826 on Kickstarter. It subsequently received the Honoree Award in the Smart Home category at IFA 2025 and the Netzwelt Innovation Award at CES 2026, alongside dozens of accolades from leading technology media, underscoring its leadership in next-generation home security. See more, worry less The X1 Pro has been widely recognized for its advanced industrial design and intelligent feature set. Dual independent 3K cameras deliver a 300 maximum viewing angle, enabling effective coverage of two yards simultaneously. Working in tandem, the two AI-driven cameras seamlessly hand off tracking between each other and can follow two objects at the same time. Each camera offers 3K clarity with an 8 m detection range, 8x digital zoom, and 100 lm spotlights for clear, detailed monitoring day and night. Say goodbye to false alarms AI-powered detection accurately identifies faces, people, vehicles, and pets, sending alerts only for relevant and suspicious activity when notifications are enabled. This significantly reduces false alarms caused by minor movements such as wind or passing shadows, providing users with a calmer, more trustworthy security experience. For events that matter, the X1 Pro streamlines review and management: built-in AI tags automatically categorize each recorded clip into a searchable timeline, allowing users to enter a keyword and instantly locate the incident they need. Always on guard, low maintenance Equipped with a built-in battery and a sun-tracking solar panel, the X1 Pro delivers reliable, low-maintenance monitoring for up to 150 days. Just 20 minutes of sunlight provides 24 hours of runtime. Engineered for durability, it features an IP65 rating, making it waterproof and resistant to extreme temperatures from -20? to 50?, ensuring dependable performance in challenging outdoor environments. Footages are securely stored locally with AES + RSA dual encryption and EN 18031 privacy compliance without any cloud-related subscription fee. Starting February, the Baseus X1 Pro will be available on Amazon and the official Baseus website. Experience its advanced protection capabilities, intelligent features, and seamless performance - redefining what smart security can be. Media Contact: pr@baseus.com Baseus Official Website: https://www.baseus.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2873380/Baseus.jpg Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRl3eMuruGw Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2098707/Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/baseus-security-brings-kickstarter-success-x1-pro-smart-ai-dual-tracking-security-camera-to-amazon-302681136.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Cartier Silver Corporation (CSE: CFE) ("Cartier Silver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed today its previously announced brokered private placement (see press release dated January 22, 2026) with Centurion One Capital Corp. (the "Agent") acting as lead agent and sole bookrunner, by the issuance, including the exercise in full of the option granted to the Agent, of an aggregate of 10,000,000 common shares of the Company (the "Shares") at a price of $0.30 per Share (the "Issue Price") for aggregate gross proceeds of $3,000,000 (the "Offering"). Dickinson Wright LLP acted as counsel to the Company, and MLT Aikins LLP acted as counsel to the Agent in connection with the Offering. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for further exploration and drilling on the Company's Los Chorrillos Project in Potosi, Bolivia and general working capital purposes. Thomas Larsen, Chief Executive Officer of the Company commented: "Cartier Silver is pleased to have successfully completed this financing which significantly strengthens our balance sheet as we advance the Los Chorrillos Project. Proceeds will be directed toward continued exploration, resource expansion, and technical studies aimed at unlocking the project's full potential. We are particularly pleased to welcome Centurion One Capital as anchor investor in this financing. Their support underscores the technical merit of Los Chorrillos and our disciplined approach to systematic development as we move the asset toward its next key milestones." In connection with the Offering, the Agent received: (i) a cash commission of $240,000; and (ii) an aggregate of 800,000 broker warrants (the "Broker Warrants"), with each such Broker Warrant entitling the holder to acquire a Share at the Issue Price for a period of 36 months from the date of closing of the Offering (the "Closing Date"). The Company also paid a corporate finance fee to the Agent by the issuance of an aggregate of 500,000 Shares at the Issue Price. The securities issued under the Offering have a hold period of four months and one day from the Closing Date. Insiders of the Company (the "Insiders") acquired an aggregate of 1,300,000 of the Shares issued under the Offering. Each of the Insider's participation in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction", as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). A formal valuation was not required under MI 61-101 as the Company is not listed on any of the stock exchanges specified in MI 61-101. Minority shareholder approval was also not required as the fair market value of the consideration for the transaction involving the Insiders does not exceed 25% of the Company's capitalization as of the date hereof. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "U.S. Securities Act"), as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. ABOUT CARTIER SILVER CORPORATION Cartier Silver is an exploration and development Company focused on discovering and developing its silver property assets, including the Chorrillos Project and claims staked by the Company's subsidiary, all of which are located in the Potosi Department of southern Bolivia. The Company also holds significant iron ore resources at its Gagnon Holdings in the southern Labrador Trough region of east-central Quebec, and the Big Easy gold property in the Burin Peninsula epithermal gold belt in the Avalon Zone of eastern Newfoundland & Labrador. For further information please visit Cartier Silver's website at www.cartiersilvercorp.com. ABOUT CENTURION ONE CAPITAL CORP. Centurion One Capital's mission is to ignite the world's most visionary entrepreneurs to conquer the greatest challenges of tomorrow, fueling their ambitions with transformative capital, unparalleled expertise, and a global network of influential connections. Every interaction is guided by our core values of respect, integrity, commitment, excellence in execution, and uncompromising performance. We make principal investments, drawing on the time-honored principles of merchant banking, where aligned incentives forge enduring partnerships. Centurion One Capital: A superior approach to investment banking. The CSE has not reviewed nor accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Statements in this release that are not historical facts (including, without limitation, the use of proceeds from the Offering) are "forward-looking statements" and readers are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual developments or results, may vary materially from these "forward-looking statements". Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or for release, publication, distribution or dissemination, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, into the United States To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283331 Source: Cartier Silver Corporation Move seen as part of Beijings risk diversification strategy, even as global investors reassess the safe-haven appeal of US debt amid policy uncertainty in Washington US President Donald Trump (L) and China's President Xi Jinping greet each other as they arrive for talks at the Gimhae Air Base, located next to the Gimhae International Airport in Busan on October 30, 2025. (AFP) Chinas financial regulators have asked domestic institutions to rein in their exposure to US Treasuries, citing concentration risks and heightened market volatility, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter. The advisory, issued by authorities including the Peoples Bank of China (PBOC) and the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA), urged banks to limit fresh purchases of US government bonds, the report said, adding that institutions with relatively high exposure have also been told to gradually pare down their holdings. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, the guidance does not extend to Chinas state-held reserves, the report said. Officials are said to have positioned the move as part of a broader effort to diversify market risk, rather than as a geopolitical signal or a reflection of waning confidence in US sovereign credit, the report said. According to the report, the advisory was issued before Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call last week with US President Donald Trump. The development comes at a time when global investors are reassessing the traditional safe-haven status of US Treasuries. Market participants have cited concerns over policy uncertainty in Washington, including President Trumps shifting stance on trade and diplomacy, criticism of the Federal Reserve, and elevated public spending, as factors contributing to volatility in US debt markets. A new ORF study finds that Indias high-tech startups are increasingly outperforming returnee-led ventures, signalling a structural shift in the countrys entrepreneurial advantage Indias startup ecosystem, once believed to draw disproportionate strength from Silicon Valley returnees, is now being powered primarily by entrepreneurs who built their careers entirely at home. A new Occasional Paper published by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) challenges the long-held assumption that overseas exposure confers a structural advantage. Authored by AnnaLee Saxenian, the University of California, Berkeley professor known for her research on Silicon Valleys rise, and technology entrepreneur and academic Vivek Wadhwa, the study analyses 596 high-tech startups founded between 2016 and 2023. Its core sample includes 521 firms with complete founder histories. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The findings are, in the authors words, largely unexpected. Startups founded by all-domestic teams show stronger and statistically significant associations with performance outcomes than those led by returnee entrepreneurs. The paper adds that returnee-founded firms do not systematically outperform domestic firms on funding, valuation, or revenue, and in some cases exhibit weaker relationships with these outcomes. For policymakers and investors who once viewed foreign experience as a badge of credibilityparticularly in early-stage fundraisingthe results mark a notable recalibration. A decade ago, overseas credentials often opened doors. That edge, the study suggests, no longer guarantees superior commercial outcomes. The rise of the hometown heroes The report highlights the growing dominance of domestic founders across sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, mobility and enterprise software. These hometown heroes, the authors observe, possess deep contextual insight and agility that allow them to navigate Indias regulatory complexity, consumer behaviour and cost sensitivities more effectively. They now outnumber returnees and have built many of the defining technology firms of the past decade. In practical terms, competitive advantage has shifted. Local market fluency increasingly trumps a global resume. The maturation of Indias venture capital ecosystem, the emergence of second-generation founders, and the scaling of domestic unicorns have further reduced reliance on diaspora-led networks. From leading role to supporting cast The study does not dismiss the value of returneesbut it reframes it. It finds that returnees who join ventures after formation are more frequently associated with firms that reach higher growth categories, suggesting that overseas experience may now function better as a complementary asset rather than a founding advantage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Returnees continue to add value, particularly in deep-tech and knowledge-intensive sectors. But the era in which they were presumed to be the primary drivers of scale appears to have faded. The authors describe this shift as the returnee paradoxquestioning why overseas experience, transformative in other economies, appears muted or even displaced in Indias contemporary startup ecosystem. A different policy path from China The paper also situates Indias trajectory in a global context. China, it notes, actively built policy scaffolding around returnee talent, deploying targeted incentives, special zones and funding programmes that created a relatively welcoming environment for diaspora founders. India, by contrast, adopted a broad-based approach. Initiatives such as Startup India did not distinguish between returnee and non-returnee founders, effectively creating a level playing field. That difference, the study suggests, may have allowed domestic entrepreneurial capabilities to deepen organicallywithout institutional bias. Kohrra Season 2 is releasing on February 11 on Netflix. It is directed by Sudip Sharma and Faisal Rahman. In this season Mona Singh joins Barun Sobti in the investigation. Kohrra Season 1 was created by Sudip Sharma and Randeep Jha, the show is about two Punjabi cops who investigate the death of a young NRI in a town in Punjab. In the process of solving the murder mystery, the cops are fighting their own battles. Kohrra is returning on Netflix for what promises to be a gripping second season The show had to be good and close to reality because it is co-created by Sudip Sharma (Paatal Lok, NH10) and directed by Randeep Jha (Halahal) showing the different strataof the society along with the equally layered characters. The story starts with two Punjabi cops investigating the murder of an NRI. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Season1, the story picks up and goes into the personal life of the cops and how it has been messed up by circumstances. Kohrra deals in detail with all things Punjabi, talking about its rich NRI population, migration, drugs, sex, clash of classes, flowing drug consumption and more. The most amusing part is how a village in Punjab is depicted with its NRI population and all things foreign including the names of the characters. No big star cast, but intense storytelling is what made the show interesting. About Kohrra Season 1 The story went this way, the victim is Paul (Vishal Handa), who has arrived with his childhood friend Liam (Ivanty Novak) in a village of Punjab to wed Veera (Anand Priya). Its an arranged match and Veera agrees to it thinking about her own future and lavish life in the UK. Veeras boyfriend Saakar (Saurav Khurana) is unhappy and is unable to get over the situation that the love of her life will be getting married to a rich NRI and migrating to some other country. The story opens with Pauls dead body being found in the fields. We get an answer to the death of Paul who came for an arranged marriage to India as the six gripping episodes of Kohrra unfolds. The narrative was unique and very close to reality and most importantly it wasnt just about the murder mystery, but touched upon other stories including the lives of all the characters. I guess that is the beauty of Kohrra. Games View All About Season 2 In Kohrra 2, Barun Sobti gets a new partner Mona Singh as he sets to uncover a darker mystery. The trailer of the new season of _Kohrra_ leans into atmosphere over exposition. Mist rolls in, doors creak open, and conversations trail off mid-sentence, establishing a mood where everyone knows something, and no one is telling the whole story. The suspects form a tight, unsettling circle- the grieving brother (Anurag Arora), the husband under scrutiny (Rannvijay Singha), and a community that appears complicit through silence rather than action. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Does Season 2 get darker? Yes, it does reflect on the back stories of each of the actors. Kohrra Season 2 trailer brings Barun Sobti to Dalerpura as he sets to uncover a darker, introspective mystery with Mona Singh. Directed by Sudip Sharma and Faisal Rahman, the series will stream from February 11. Who is Gabriela Rico Jimenez? The Mexican model whose viral video alleging cannibalism involving Jeffrey Epstein has resurfaced amid the Epstein files. Heres what is known, what is disputed, and why the controversy has returned. The resurfacing of previously sealed Jeffrey Epstein-related documents has reignited online debate around a chilling viral clip from 2009 featuring a distressed young woman claiming that powerful elites were eating children. The woman, identified as Mexican model Gabriela Rico Jimenez**,** has become the centre of renewed speculation after social media users linked her outburst to fresh disclosures in the so-called Epstein files. But how much of the story is factual, and what remains unverified? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Who is Gabriela Rico Jimenez? Gabriela Rico Jimenez is a Mexican model, who gained global attention in August 2009, when she was 21, after a video surfaced showing her in a visibly distressed state outside a hotel in Monterrey, Mexico. In the footage, she is seen shouting accusations in Spanish, claiming that influential figures were involved in cannibalism and the abuse of children. Her emotional breakdown reportedly followed attendance at a private event attended by political and business elites. Local police detained her at the scene and transferred her to a psychiatric facility for medical evaluation. At the time, authorities described her behaviour as a mental health episode, and her family later stated that she suffered from psychological distress. Following her hospitalisation, she disappeared from public view, fuelling online speculation and conspiracy theories. They ate human flesh In 2019, 21-year-old Gabriela Rico Jimenez made statements alleging extreme abuse connected to Jeffrey Epstein Newly released Epstein-related documents show that some elements she referenced were already known to investigators, though they stop short of pic.twitter.com/Y0D8GEgHQO HOT SPOT (@HotSpotHotSpot) January 31, 2026 Games View All Why is her video trending again now? Interest in Jimenezs case has surged following the release of newly unsealed US Department of Justice files linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Social media users began circulating old clips of Jimenez, suggesting her claims of cannibalism were validated by the Epstein documents. Several posts alleged that the files confirmed elite involvement in ritual abuse and cannibalism, claims that quickly went viral across X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Telegram channels. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, no concrete evidence in the Epstein files to support allegations of cannibalism or baby-eating. What do the Epstein Files actually reveal? According to verified reporting, the newly released Epstein files contain: Witness testimonies Unverified tips Emails Unproven allegations Crucially, none of the documents contain substantiated claims that Epstein or his associates engaged in cannibalism. The US Justice Department has also clarified that the files include raw, unverified material, and that many allegations within them remain unproven or speculative. Several fact-check organisations have concluded that claims linking Jimenezs video to Epstein are misleading and unsupported by evidence. What happened to Gabriela Rico Jimenez after 2009? Following her detention, Jimenez was reportedly transferred to a psychiatric medical centre in Monterrey. Her family later withdrew a missing-person complaint, stating that she had received treatment and wished to remain out of the public eye. Since then, there has been no confirmed public record of her whereabouts, contributing to speculation about her fate. While online rumours claim she vanished mysteriously, no official documentation supports claims of foul play, disappearance, or silencing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is entirely plausible she chose lifelong privacy after a deeply traumatic public episode. Are the cannibalism claims credible? Fact-checking organisations, investigative journalists, and legal experts have consistently stated that: There is no credible evidence supporting claims that Jeffrey Epstein or his associates engaged in cannibalism. The viral theory stems from a mix of unrelated conspiracy narratives, misinterpretations of legal documents, and online misinformation. No court filing, law enforcement investigation, or forensic evidence supports the allegation. Authorities caution that conflating unverified claims with proven crimes risks undermining legitimate investigations into Epsteins confirmed sexual abuse crimes. Why this controversy continues to resurface Epsteins network of elite connections, the scale of his crimes, and lingering secrecy surrounding his associates have created fertile ground for conspiracy theories. While Gabriela Rico Jimenezs distressing 2009 video remains deeply unsettling, there is no verified evidence linking her claims to Jeffrey Epstein or confirming allegations of cannibalism. Her story highlights how mental health crises, misinformation, and conspiracy culture can collide, producing viral narratives that blur the line between fact and fiction. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie Drouin, where both sides agreed to establish security and law enforcement liaison officers. The talks also sent a clear message that Khalistani-linked networks do not enjoy the support of Ottawa NSA Ajit Doval with his Canadian counterpart Nathalie G Drouin. The two met last Saturday (February 7) during Doval's two day visit to Ottawa. File image/PTI In 2023, ties between India and Canada hit their lowest when then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian officials of being linked to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Three years later, it appears that under Mark Carneys leadership, India-Canada relations are improving. On Saturday (February 8), National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval met his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie Drouin, Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Canadian PM, in Ottawa, during which both sides agreed to a shared work plan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Following the meeting of the two high-ranking officials, it was also announced that both sides would appoint security and lawenforcement liaison officers to tackle issues of mutual concern, including drug trafficking and transnational criminal networks. Liaison officers to help strengthen Indo-Canada ties Following Dovals visit to Canada and meeting with his Canadian counterpart, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that both countries have agreed to post security liaison officers in each others countries. During the meeting, it was agreed that each country would establish security and law-enforcement liaison officers, and that their respective agencies would build on working relationships, said the MEA. This would help streamline bilateral communications and allow for the sharing of information in a timely manner on issues such as the illegal flow of drugs as well as organised criminal networks. Khalistani groups in focus Doval and his Canadian counterpart also discussed the issue of Khalistani groups prevailing in the North American country. Doval discussed the matter of extremist fundraising, intimidation, and propaganda linked with drug money, document fraud, and coercion within the diaspora, which is targeting India, reported News18. The presence of Khalistani groups in Canada has long been a thorn in India-Canada ties. File image/AP Following Dovals talks with Drouin as well as with Gary Anandasangaree, Minister for Public Safety of Canada, it is reported that the Canadian government has accepted that violent extremism directed at India is not just a diplomatic irritant, but also a public safety issue. The presence of Khalistanis in Canada and the vitriol they continue to spread has long been a thorn in India-Canada ties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In fact, it was the killing of Khalistani Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023 that led to a deterioration of ties between India and Canada, as then Prime Minister Trudeau blamed Indian officials for that death. Cooperation on cybersecurity Following the meeting of the two NSAs, it was also announced that both countries would formalise cooperation on cybersecurity policy and information sharing on cybersecurity issues. The two officials also discussed collaboration in areas such as fraud and immigration enforcement, in line with domestic laws and international obligations. Building trust While many would argue that Dovals visit to Canada did not yield big-bang results, in actuality, the visit has been of great significance, as it focused on concrete steps to rebuild trust and ties rather than focus on optics. News18 reported that the decision to post law-enforcement liaison officers shows a shared recognition that Khalistani networks are now viewed as organised crime, not free speech. Moreover, Dovals meeting comes ahead of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carneys expected visit to India in the first week of March. Dinesh Patnaik, Indias High Commissioner to Canada, told Reuters previously that Carney is likely to sign deals on uranium, energy, minerals, and artificial intelligence. According to Patnaik, formal negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India should also start in March. The countries agreed to restart stalled trade talks last November. A reset in India-Canada ties Dovals visit to Ottawa and Carneys possible trip to India are part of efforts to reset ties between India and Canada, which were badly affected during Trudeaus time in office. The Trudeau-led Canadian government had alleged potential Indian links to the killing of Canadian citizen and Khalistani Hardeep Singh Nijjar. New Delhi rejected these allegations, calling them absurd. This led to the expulsion of diplomats, suspension of trade talks, and a sharp slowdown in political engagement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ties between India and Canada fell sharply in 2023 when then PM Justin Trudeau alleged potential Indian links to the killing of Canadian citizen and Khalistani Hardeep Singh Nijjar. File image/PTI However, with Carney taking office, ties seem to be on the mend. Carney and Modi met on the sidelines of the G7 summit at Kananaskis, Alberta, in Canada in June last year. They agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of Indian and Canadian High Commissioners to Ottawa and New Delhi, respectively. New Delhi then appointed Dinesh K Patnaik as Indias new High Commissioner to Canada. Ottawa, on the other hand, appointed Christopher Cooter as the new High Commissioner of Canada in India. Carney and Modi had again met in Johannesburg on November 23 last year and agreed to start negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. With Mark Carneys appointment as Canadian PM, ties between India and Canada have improved. File image/PTI Since then, engagement between India and Canada has been high Canadas Foreign Minister Anita Anand visited New Delhi last October and met her counterpart S Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The PM told her the visit would strengthen efforts to impart new momentum to the two countries partnership. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Anand and Jaishankar also met in the US last week, with Jaishankar writing on X, Great to see FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada today. Talked about taking our ties forward. Notably, Canadas reset with India comes at a time when Ottawa is looking to reduce its dependence on the US. As David Mckinnon, a former senior Canadian diplomat, told Deutsche Welle, Obviously, the return of Donald Trump as US president and his increasingly destructive role in the world have completely changed that calculation in Ottawa and Delhi. For somewhat different reasons, both countries need to diversify away from reliance on the US. For both, though, this imperative is urgent and immediate. Now, its a matter of wait and watch to see what happens next in the India-Canada relationship, but one thing is certain both countries are trying to move on from the Nijjar episode. With inputs from agencies The United States and Bangladesh are set to sign a trade agreement today (February 9), days ahead of the long-awaited polls in Dhaka. This comes after India secured a trade deal with the US. Meanwhile, a Hong Kong court will sentence media tycoon Jimmy Lai today, following his December conviction under a Beijing-imposed national security law The United States and Bangladesh are set to sign a trade agreement today (February 9), days ahead of the long-awaited polls in Dhaka. File image/Reuters After Indias trade deal with the US reduced tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent, Bangladesh is rushing to finalise its deal with the US today (February 9). This comes just days ahead of the long-awaited polls in Dhaka. In other news, Israels President Isaac Herzog is in Australia to honour the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting attack that took place on December 14, 2025, killing 15 people. Read this and more news updates from across the world for today. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Bangladesh-US tariff agreement The United States and Bangladesh are set to sign a trade agreement today (February 9), days ahead of the long-awaited polls in Dhaka. It comes in the aftermath of New Delhi and Washington signing a free trade agreement that was announced by President Donald Trump. Representatives of Dhaka and Washington are set to meet to sign the pact. Neither Bangladeshs Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin nor Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman will be heading to the US to attend the signing ceremony, according to a media report. The Trump administration had levied a 37 per cent tariff on Bangladesh in April 2025. That number was reduced to 35 per cent, then to 20 per cent in August. The deal is expected to bring the tariffs down further to 15 per cent. Jimmy Lai to be sentenced today Hong Kongs court will deliver its verdict on media figure Jimmy Lai today following his conviction in December under a Beijing-imposed national security law. Hong Kongs court will deliver the verdict on media figure Jimmy Lai today following his conviction in December under a Beijing-imposed national security law. File image/Reuters The 78-year-old, once head of the now-closed Apple Daily, faces severe penalties after convictions tied to alleged plots against Beijings authority. Western powers see the case as an attack on free speech; however, local leaders argue it is necessary for justice. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raised the matter with Chinas Xi Jinping on a Beijing visit, calling it a frank but measured dialogue. Israeli president to honour Bondi Beach victims Israels President Isaac Herzog will honour the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting attack that took place last December, killing 15 people. Herzog is on a four-day trip to Australia. Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the communitys peak body, asserted, His visit will lift the spirits of a pained community. Prince William to visit Saudi Arabia Britains Prince William will visit Saudi Arabia from today until February 11, according to a statement from Kensington Palace. His Royal Highness visit comes as the UK and Saudi Arabia celebrate growing trade, energy and investment ties, and as the two nations approach a century of diplomatic relations, the statement read, as quoted by Reuters. Britains Prince William will visit Saudi Arabia starting today till February 11. File image/Reuters This will also mark his first official overseas visit of the year. This will also be Williams first time in the Middle East since his 2023 trip to Kuwait. He has previously tripped neighbouring countries, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, according to the Independent. Bengaluru Metro fares to rise 5% from today Bengaluru Metro fares to rise 5 per cent from today. The BMRCL (Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited) said earlier that metro rail fares will be revised on a zone-by-zone basis starting today as part of its Annual Automatic Fare Adjustment system. State Deputy Chief Minister Dk Shivakumar, who is also the minister in charge of Bengaluru Development, said the matter has not been discussed with the state government or him. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD No file has come to me. They have their own team of central government officials who will decide. It hasnt come to my notice. I also saw it on TV, Shivakumar told reporters. WhatsApp to file response in SC in privacy case The Supreme Court allowed Meta and WhatsApp to file affidavits after it adjourned the matter last week till today, Monday (February 9). During the hearing, the top Court came down heavily on WhatsApp on privacy-related matters and flagged the data value gap. WhatsApp is not here to collect data and sell it. You are here to provide messaging and communication services," asserted Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant. He further added, saying, WhatsApp could not play with the right to privacy of this country With inputs from agencies The Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) has proposed a pilot electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) corridor linking Gurugram, Connaught Place and the upcoming Jewar International Airport in Noida. It also suggested developing rooftop vertiports instead of creating new ground-based landing pads An electric air taxi flies near the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in Manhattan, New York City. India is also considering an air taxi system in the country to help counter the traffic conditions. File image/Reuters Traffic jams are routine in India. The National Capital Region (NCR) has often been in headlines owing to the long bottlenecks. In some instances, the traffic jam has led to a person taking more than two hours from Gurugram to Noida. But what if we said there was a solution to this? In fact, India might soon have air taxis flying in Indian airspace. Authorities are planning a corridor connecting Gurugram, Connaught Place and the Jewar International Airport in Noida. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This comes as the Confederation of India Industries (CII) made this suggestion in a report titled Navigating the Future of Advanced Air Mobility in India, unveiled by Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu. The launch was attended by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Vipin Kumar, and other senior figures from the civil aviation sector. Here is all you need to know about air taxis. Why are air taxis being considered? The traffic situation in metro cities, especially Delhi-NCR, is extremely bad. While authorities try to figure out a way to deal with the hectic jams in urban areas, the report has suggested that the next step for the country is advanced air mobility solutions like electric vertical take-off and landing, better known as air taxis. With air travel demand climbing, India is focusing on improving last-mile connectivity through different transport options to tackle growing congestion in cities. Where will be the vertiports? A key highlight of the report is the use of rooftops as landing and parking spots for electric air taxis. This could allow existing buildings to generate revenue. With land for ground-based landing pads proving costly, rooftops offer a cheaper and quicker way to roll out such services in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, the report noted. According to the report, existing Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations do not permit routine commercial rooftop vertical take-offs and landings, with any future rollout hinging on updated regulatory frameworks and safety reviews. India is now focusing on improving last-mile connectivity. Image Courtesy: @Amarrrrz/X According to the website ET Infra, Aviation minister Kinjarapu said, The integration of Advanced Air Mobility reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and world-class urban connectivity. He added that the report provides a timely and practical blueprint to realise a faster, cleaner, and more connected India. Amit Dutta, Chairman of the CII Task Force on Advanced Air Mobility, explained that the study helps move the idea from a dream to a reality, reported ET Infra. By analysing a hypothetical Delhi-NCR corridor through structured modelling and regulatory scenario testing, this study moves from concept to operational assessment, Dutta said. He noted that it addresses the regulatory, infrastructure, and airspace challenges associated with early AAM pilots. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The report proposed a sequenced rollout, beginning with drone deliveries, followed by medical logistics and organ transport, and eventually air ambulance services. Who will provide the funding? One of the issues that has everyone concerned is who will foot the bill for the development of vertiports. The report suggested that financial institutions could explore dedicated funding instruments for Advanced Air Mobility, such as venture leasing mechanisms and specialised infrastructure funds. Options could range from sector-specific infrastructure funds and venture leasing models to credit enhancement facilities designed to reduce risk and attract long-term investors. With inputs from agencies Hong Kongs Apple Daily, a pro-democracy tabloid founded by Jimmy Lai, was at the centre of the media landscape in recent times. Now, Lai has been sentenced to prison for 20 years after being found guilty of foreign collusion. The media moguls downfall is similar to that of Hong Kongs media ecosystem In this image, millionaire media tycoon Jimmy Lai poses during an interview with AFP at the Next Digital offices in Hong Kong. File image/AFP Hong Kong once enjoyed an era of freewheeling and independent news outlets, with the pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily and its outspoken founder Jimmy Lai at the centre of a vibrant media landscape. The 78-year-old media mogul has been sentenced to 20 years in prison on Monday (February 16) after being found guilty of foreign collusion under the citys national security law, as well as seditious publication. Lais downfall mirrored Hong Kongs shrivelling media ecosystem, with the former British colony plunging in press freedom rankings from 18th place in 2002 to 140th in 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Here are some key events affecting Hong Kongs press freedom: Apple Daily shuttered Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong in June 2020 after the finance hub saw huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests. In August, hundreds of police officers raided Apple Dailys newsroom and arrested Jimmy Lai. The mogul has been kept behind bars since December 2020. The 26-year-old newspaper was forced to close in June 2021 after police raided it again and arrested its senior management. Lai and six top executives were charged with foreign collusion under the national security law, with only Lai contesting the charges. All of them are set to be sentenced on Monday. Changing landscape Ess In December 2021, online media outlet Stand News ceased operations after more than 200 officers raided its office and arrested two top editors for seditious publication. The duo were eventually found guilty the first case of its kind since Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 and former editor-in-chief Chung Pui-kuen received a 21-month jail term. Media mogul Jimmy Lai leaves the Court of Final Appeal by prison van in Hong Kong, China. File image/Reuters Online outlet CitizenNews shut down in January 2022 to ensure the safety of everyone. Chinese-language news website Initium relocated its office to Singapore, citing diminishing press freedoms in Hong Kong. Authorities also tightened control over public broadcaster RTHK by carrying out more stringent vetting of its content. After the Chinese finance hub passed a second, homegrown security law in 2024, US news outlet Radio Free Asia said it closed its Hong Kong office over staff safety concerns. Reporters affected The Hong Kong Journalists Association said in 2024 that dozens of journalists faced systematic and organised harassment and intimidation, including leaked personal information and death threats. The HKJA said the following year that multiple journalists and their employers were subjected to unreasonable tax audits. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Reporters Without Borders (RSF) estimated that at least 900 Hong Kong journalists lost their jobs in the four years following the enactment of the national security law. Last August, the citys immigration authorities declined to renew the work visa of a Bloomberg News reporter. RSF said at the time that it was at least the tenth case of a journalist being denied a visa or barred from entering Hong Kong. A government spokesperson said last month that Hong Kong citizens enjoy freedom of the press and freedom of speech, and such rights are protected under the citys two national security laws. Many in the UK, including some within Keir Starmers own Labour Party, are turning on the British Prime Minister over his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador despite knowing his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. But will he stay or will he go? How things could play out Keir Starmer got rid of Mandelson in September after a batch of emails showed he remained friends with Epstein despite the latter being convicted of sex offenses involving a minor. Reuters Will Keir Starmer remain British Prime Minister? The fallout from the links between veteran politician Peter Mandelson, whom Starmer appointed as the British ambassador to the US, and the late disgraced convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continues. Many in the UK, including some within Starmers own Labour Party, are turning on the British Prime Minister over his decision to appoint Mandelson as ambassador despite knowing his ties to Epstein. Starmer got rid of Mandelson in September after a batch of emails showed he remained friends with Epstein despite the latter being convicted of sex offences involving a minor. However, new emails published by the US Justice Department show that Mandelson also passed on sensitive information to Epstein in 2009, at a time when he was a member of the Labour Cabinet. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The scandal has put Starmer under pressure, with some Labour leaders calling on the UK Prime Minister to quit office. Starmers high-powered Chief of Staff quit on Sunday while taking the blame for the appointment, while the UK PMs communications director resigned on Monday. But many think this isnt nearly enough. Starmer isnt giving up just yet. He is trying to gain the backing of his party and has publicly apologised to the British public and to the victims of Epsteins sex trafficking for believing what he has called Mandelsons lies. But how could Starmer go? A simple resignation The simplest option is that Starmer announces his intention to resign, triggering an election for the Labour leadership. A resignation could possibly come if a delegation of Cabinet members tell Starmer he has lost too much support within the party or if members of his government quit in protest. Those considered to harbour leadership ambitions include Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who had to resign last year after admitting she did not pay enough tax on a house purchase. An investigation into that is ongoing. Andy Burnham, the popular Mayor of Manchester who was blocked from standing at a special election in the city later this month, would not be eligible because, by longstanding convention, the Prime Minister must be a member of Parliament. Peter Mandelson, former British ambassador to the US. File Photo/Reuters Whoever does run, the election would likely take weeks, with Starmer likely staying in post until that concludes. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If Starmer decides to resign immediately, the Cabinet and Labours governing body would likely pick an interim leader to be Prime Minister, probably someone not standing to be Labour leader. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy could fit the bill. Under Labours rules, candidates must have the support of a fifth of party lawmakers about 80. The wider party membership would then vote to choose a winner. King Charles III would invite the winner to become Prime Minister and form a government. A challenge from within If Starmer does not resign, he could face a challenge, potentially from within his Cabinet. Unlike the Conservative Party, which has a history of getting rid of leaders such as Margaret Thatcher in 1990 and Boris Johnson in 2022, Labour does not have that muscle memory. No Labour Prime Minister has ever been dislodged, though Tony Blair announced his plan to resign in 2007 after a series of low-level resignations. Challengers would have to meet the eligibility thresholds above, but Starmer would automatically be on the ballot. Starmer faces a series of hurdles in the weeks ahead. The first will probably be when files related to the vetting of Mandelson are published. Starmer will be hoping they show the scale of Mandelsons lies. Should they not, that could be a point of high jeopardy for the Prime Minister. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Another potential pitfall could be the special election in Gorton and Denton on February 26, traditionally a safe Labour seat. However, this time it will be a tough fight, with challenges from the anti-immigration Reform UK on the right and the Greens on the left. After that comes a raft of elections in May. Many in Labour fear the party could lose power in Wales for the first time since the legislature was created in 1999, fall well short in Scotland and get battered in local elections in England. It is clear that Starmer faces a difficult landscape. And thats barring surprise developments that could further rock his premiership. Events, dear boy, events, Harold Macmillan, Prime Minister between 1957 and 1963, said when asked what the greatest challenges for leaders were. Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy figure and media baron, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by Hong Kong for national security offences. Lai is one of the most visible critics of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) A self-made billionaire turned pro-democracy media figure, Jimmy Lai, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by Hong Kong for national security offences. File image/Reuters Hong Kongs pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison. The billionaire, a vociferous China critic, was convicted under the citys controversial national security law. Lai was arrested in August 2020 and was convicted last year. The judges in his case have claimed Lai is the driving force behind persistent foreign collusion conspiracies. Lai has been granted minor reprieves on his sentence due to health issues, according to media reports. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD His case is far bigger than just one man being put on trial. Lai's supporters argue that it's a crackdown on dissent and journalism by China. In fact, Australia, Britain, the European Union, Japan and Taiwan expressed concerns about the impact of the sentencing. Lai's conviction is among the most prominent under the law and is widely viewed as a test case for media freedom. But who is Lai? These graphics decode the tycoon, the case and the conviction: Indias fast-tracked hydropower projects on the Chenab river, led by the Sawalkote dam, have resulted in a worry tensions for Pakistan as the Indus Waters Treaty remains in abeyance. From Pakal Dul to Ratle, these projects carry strategic implications for both the countries A vehicle crosses a bridge over the river Chenab at Doda district, about 200 km (124 miles) northwest from the northern Indian city of Jammu, October 3, 2005. Representational Image/Reuters India is accelerating hydropower construction on the Chenab river. With the Indus Waters Treaty currently in suspension, New Delhi has moved ahead with multiple long-pending projects in Jammu and Kashmir, led by the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project. Together with Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, Ratle and Dulhasti Stage-II, these projects are influencing the landscape of the Chenab basin a development Pakistan views as a direct threat to its water security. How Sawalkote project helps India India has formally initiated work on the Rs 5,129 crore Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir. According to documents accessed by News18, the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) invited construction bids on February 5, marking a decisive step towards execution. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The project spans the Udhampur and Ramban districts and carries an estimated construction timeline of approximately nine years. The internal documentation states that Construction methodology and selection of equipment have been planned to commission the project as early as possible. Environmental clearance for the project was granted in October last year by an expert committee of the Union environment ministry, following Indias decision to suspend participation in the Indus Waters Treaty framework. With this clearance in place, NHPC moved swiftly to the bidding stage. The paperwork further notes that while initial mobilisation must be completed before major works begin, planning has already accounted for year-round construction. Underground activities are expected to continue through all seasons, while surface-level work will follow a variable schedule depending on weather conditions. Sawalkote is designed as a run-of-the-river hydroelectric project with a total installed capacity of 1,856 MW. Development will take place in two distinct stages. The first phase involves a 1,406 MW plant, followed by a 450 MW facility in the second phase. Geographically, the project occupies a critical stretch of the Chenab river. It lies downstream of the Baglihar hydropower project and upstream of the Salal dam, placing it squarely within an already heavily engineered river corridor. This positioning strengthens Indias cascade of infrastructure along the Chenab, allowing sequential control over water movement between projects. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Construction planning documents specify how work will be staggered across seasons, stating, Available working season in a year in the project area shall be 12 months for all underground works & for surface works with full progress rate during non-monsoon period and with 50 er cent progress rate in monsoon period." This design allows progress to continue even during adverse weather, reinforcing the governments push to minimise delays. How other Chenab projects are aiding New Delhis hydropower strategy Sawalkote is not an isolated development. It forms part of a broader directive issued by the central government to fast-track multiple hydropower projects across the Chenab river system. Officials have been given firm deadlines to ensure timely completion. Under this plan, the Pakal Dul and Kiru projects are scheduled for commissioning by December 2026. The Kwar project is expected to be completed by March 2028, while construction on the Ratle project has been ordered to proceed at an accelerated pace, with completion targeted by 2028. These projects have been classified by the Centre as strategically important, particularly in the context of India stepping away from treaty-based constraints on western rivers. Several of them have drawn sustained attention from Pakistan, which has closely monitored construction milestones and river diversion activities. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pakal Dul Among all the Chenab projects, Pakal Dul stands out for its scale and functional significance. Located in the Kishtwar region, the 1,000 MW project features a 167-metre-high dam, making it the tallest dam structure in India. Pakal Dul is also Indias first storage project on a western river that flows into Pakistan. This feature distinguishes it from purely run-of-the-river schemes. Once operational, the project will provide India with the capacity to regulate the timing of water releases a capability Islamabad has consistently viewed with concern. The project was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2018 and is now slated for commissioning by December 2026. Once online, it will become a central node in Indias Chenab infrastructure network. Kiru and Kwar Running parallel to Pakal Dul is the Kiru hydropower project, also located in Kishtwar. Kiru is a run-of-the-river dam with a height of 135 metres. Its strategic relevance lies in its placement between upstream and downstream installations, strengthening Indias cumulative control over river flow patterns. The Centre has assigned Kiru the same December 2026 commissioning deadline as Pakal Dul, signalling that both projects are intended to become operational in close succession. The Kwar project, featuring a 109-metre-high dam, achieved a major milestone in January 2024 when the Chenab was successfully diverted to enable construction activities. This diversion was closely followed in Pakistan, where it was seen as a tangible demonstration of Indias expanding physical presence on the river. The project is now scheduled for commissioning by March 2028. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ratle and Dulhasti Stage-II The Ratle hydropower project has remained one of the most contentious developments on the Chenab. With a planned capacity of 850 MW and a 133-metre-high dam structure, Ratle has faced repeated objections from Pakistan, particularly concerning its spillway design. Construction momentum increased last year when the Chenab was diverted through tunnels to facilitate building activity. The project is currently targeted for completion by 2028. Beyond Ratle, India is also advancing Dulhasti Stage-II after receiving environmental clearance in December. Pakistan has objected to this approval, arguing that it was not informed about the clearance process. Indian authorities have rejected this claim, maintaining that due procedures were followed. Why Pakistan sees the Chenab projects as a strategic threat Pakistans concerns stem from the Chenabs central role within the Indus basin. The river is one of the primary sources of water for the countrys agriculture sector, which supports nearly 90 per cent of Pakistans food production. Reports note that approximately nine out of ten Pakistanis depend on water that originates in Indian territory. Nearly three-fourths of Pakistans total water supply comes from western rivers that flow through India, making upstream developments politically and strategically sensitive. Islamabad has accused New Delhi of violating the Indus Waters Treaty and of weaponising water resources. Senior Pakistani leaders, including Pakistan Peoples Party senator Sherry Rehman, have described Indias actions as a grave infringement of Pakistans recognised water rights. Pakistani officials argue that the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be suspended unilaterally and insist that Indian projects on the Chenab must continue to comply with treaty provisions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pakistani media has also linked environmental clearances, including Dulhasti Stage-II, to alleged fluctuations in river inflows, claiming these threaten agriculture during the Rabi sowing season. Pakistan has alsp raised alarms about the sudden holding and release of water upstream. According to Islamabad, this has resulted in erratic inflows in rivers such as the Chenab and Jhelum, posing risks to food security and rural livelihoods. India has not accepted these allegations, reiterating that its hydropower projects are run-of-the-river in nature and do not involve large-scale water storage, except where permitted. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in April last year following the terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. Under the original 1960 treaty, India was granted control over the eastern rivers Ravi, Beas and Sutlej while Pakistan received the bulk of waters from the western rivers, including the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. India retained limited consumption rights and unrestricted non-consumptive use on these western rivers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Environmental groups have also flagged long-term concerns linked to climate change and glacial retreat. The Chenab originates at the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, before flowing into Jammu and Kashmir. Studies estimate that glacial volume in the Chenab basin declined by 33.3 per cent between the signing of the Indus Waters Treaty and 2004-05. This loss has implications for river flows, particularly because a significant portion of the Chenabs water comes from glacial melt. Environmentalists have also cautioned that the Chenab basin is already densely populated with hydropower projects, raising concerns about cumulative ecological stress, altered flow regimes, and climate-driven variability. Reflecting these risks, the environmental clearance granted to Sawalkote includes a requirement for the developer to prepare a river conservation strategy that accounts for the combined impact of multiple projects across the basin. With inputs from agencies Jeffrey Epstein wanted to give away $100 million to his then-girlfriend Karyna Shuliak, as per the millions of documents recently released by the US Justice Department. He had a total fortune of $630 million at the time of his death in 2019. As per a recent court filing, the estate is valued at $120 million Jeffrey Epstein (R) with Karyna Shuliak in an unidentified location. US Justice Department via AFP Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted sex offender, had signed a will just two days before he died by suicide in a New York jail cell in 2019. The latest tranche of the so-called Epstein files released by the US Justice Department recently revealed that he wanted to give away $100 million (Rs 907.07 crore) to his then-girlfriend, Karyna Shuliak. The convicted paedophile had a total fortune of $630 million (Rs 5,715 crore) at the time of his death. Epstein was also reportedly mulling marriage with the then-girlfriend. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lets take a closer look. What will Epsteins then-partner get? Jeffrey Epstein gave Karyna Shuliak a 32.73-carat diamond ring in contemplation of marriage. He also planned to give his fiancee $100 million, which included a $50 million (Rs 454 crore) annuity to be set up for her benefit. She would also get homes, including the convicted sex offenders Manhattan mansion, Paris apartment, New Mexico ranch, and two private islands in the US Virgin Islands, following his death, reported Business Insider. A copy of the 32-page document, called the 1953 Trust, was included in the nearly three million (30 lakh) documents released by the Justice Department. Shuliak, 36, is a native of Belarus who knew Epstein since at least 2012, according to documents files by the Justice Department. She is believed to be living in New York City. Epstein helped pay for her to go to dental school. Shuliak was the last person the disgraced financier called when he was in jail before authorities reported he had killed himself while awaiting trial for federal sex trafficking charges, as per New York Times (NYT). A drone view shows houses on Little St. James, a small private island formerly owned by the late financier Jeffrey Epstein and later sold by his estate to settle lawsuits, in the US Virgin Islands, November 29, 2025. File Photo/Reuters As per Business Insider, Epstein said he gave Shuliak 48 loose diamonds, along with the engagement ring, which were hers to keep if the marriage was not consummated and Epstein died. He signed the document on August 8, 2019, while he was jailed in Manhattan on sex trafficking charges. The trust, named after the year Epstein was born, had never been made public before. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Who else is in Epsteins will? Shuliak and 40 other people have been mentioned as potential beneficiaries who were entitled to Epsteins fortune from his estate. Darren Indyke, Epsteins longtime personal lawyer, was to get $50 million, and Richard Kahn, his longtime personal accountant, was left with $25 million. Indyke and Kahn, who were his co-executors, were also Epsteins top picks to serve as the trustees. Indyke and Kahn have never acted to put their own interests above their duties as co-executors, Daniel Weiner, an attorney representing the estate executors, told Business Insider in an email. Neither they nor any of the other more than 40 beneficiaries will receive any money from that Estate unless and until all creditors and claims on the Estate have first been satisfied in full, including claims for compensation made by women who suffered abuse at Mr. Epsteins hands, Weiner said. In the document, Epstein mentioned that he planned to create a separate trust for Shuliak for operating expenses. He wanted to set another trust for a person whose name is redacted. Both trusts were to be managed by Indyke and Kahn. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Seven people whose names are redacted would each receive between $3 million and $10 million. Many of the names that have not been redacted are Epsteins employees, including his housekeepers and private jet pilots. Others are academics who spent time with Epstein and who had received research funding from him. British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins long-term partner who is facing a 20-year prison sentence for trafficking girls to the financier, was to receive $10 million under the final trust. Her name was missing from the previous trust. As per the 1953 Trust, Cecile de Jongh, the former first lady of the US Virgin Islands and an Epstein employee, would get $1 million. Epsteins brother, Mark Epstein, was left with $10 million to be held in a trust for his children. This is the first Im hearing of it, Mark Epstein told Business Insider. He also planned to leave $5 million to Martin Nowak, a Harvard University math professor with whom Epstein had cordial ties for years. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to a recent court filing, the late paedophiles estate was valued at $120 million. Since Epsteins death, his estate had been embroiled in litigation and dealings with creditors, paying out $125 million to more than 100 victims as part of a compensation programme. Hundreds of millions of dollars were paid in for taxes, victim settlements, and other expenses. With inputs from agencies Thailands Bhumjaithai Party has secured a win in Sundays general election, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul claiming victory. While the party lacks an outright majority, its 192 seats give Anutin plenty of bargaining power. How easily can he form a coalition? Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai Party leader and prime ministerial candidate, gestures following a press conference at the party headquarters on the day of the general election in Bangkok, Thailand, February 8, 2026. Reuters Thailands ruling Bhumjaithai Party scored a decisive victory at last weekends general elections, routing progressive and populist parties to put leader Anutin Charnvirakul in the running to become the first premier voted back to office in 20 years. How did the election play out? Bhumjaithai grabbed and retained a sizeable lead in early vote counting, despite opinion polls that favoured the liberal Peoples Party, whose leaders, along with those of the Pheu Thai party, had conceded early. It expanded in the south and captured seats in the vote-rich northeast, held for nearly two decades by the billionaire Shinawatra familys once-dominant Pheu Thai. Bhumjaithai had about 192 of 500 parliamentary seats from nearly 95 per cent of polling stations, Reuters calculations based on election commission data show, well over its tallies of 51 and 71 in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Despite a clean sweep of the capital, Bangkok, the People's Party was a distant second with 117 seats, and Pheu Thai at 74, in its worst electoral performance. How easily can Anutin form a coalition? Although Bhumjaithai lacks an outright majority, its 192 seats give Anutin plenty of bargaining power. Clearing away one obstacle, the Peoples Party said on Sunday it would not form a competing alliance. Apart from the big three parties, about a dozen smaller ones are set to win 117 seats, from Kla Tham with 57 to Palang Pracharat with 5. As part of Anutins minority government, those two alone would yield him a slender majority. A Pheu Thai-Bhumjaithai alliance is possible, even though Anutin manoeuvred against it after abandoning the coalition of the former ruling party last year, to become premier following a courts sacking of predecessor Paetongtarn Shinawatra. With his party on the rise and his credentials as an astute but wily dealmaker wielding clout among conservatives and royalists, Anutin is set to draw defectors and many smaller parties. Is political stability likely under Anutin? The size of Bhumjaithais win consolidates power, enabling better governance if Anutin can manage Thailands stuttering economy and balance the interests of big business groups and powerful institutions. Anutin would probably be backed by Thailands influential establishment and military, the key protagonists in a lengthy power struggle that thwarted two progressive forerunners of the Peoples Party and toppled six populist prime ministers, either backed by or from the Shinawatras. How did Anutin win? Anutins gamble on dissolving parliament amid a fierce conflict with Cambodia seems to have paid off, as he rode a months-long wave of nationalism and campaigned heavily on defending national sovereignty while portraying rivals as unpatriotic. Though premier for fewer than 100 days, his recruitment of technocrats and poaching of respected politicians from other parties let him project his party as a capable steward of the economy, against an untested Peoples Party and a Pheu Thai that had failed to deliver. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When can a government be formed? Parliament must meet to elect a speaker and choose the new prime minister 15 days after the election commission certifies the result, which it has 60 days to do. Any party with more than 25 seats can nominate a prime ministerial candidate for the vote in parliament, but such a contestant would have to gain the support of more than half of the 500 lawmakers before forming a cabinet. If the vote is unsuccessful, the house must convene again and repeat the procedure until a premier is chosen. The European Union launched its digital Entry and Exit System (EES) last year, which tracks when non-EU citizens enter and exit the Schengen area. But why is it causing delays? A passenger uses an automated terminal for registration to the Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires all non-EU citizens to provide personal details, including fingerprints and facial images, upon their first entry into the Schengen area. Reuters Last year, the European Union launched its digital Entry and Exit System (EES). The biometric system tracks when non-EU citizens enter and exit the Schengen area. The idea is to replace traditional passport stamping and speed up border crossings. The system is also aimed at curbing illegal immigration, which is a rising concern within the EU. However, the rollout has been anything but smooth. The system is now causing long delays and disruptions to travel plans across several major European hubs. But what exactly is the EES? And why is it causing so much chaos at airports and borders? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lets take a closer look. A look at EES So, what exactly is the Entry and Exit System? At its core, the EES is designed to digitally track when non-EU citizens enter and leave the Schengen area. The idea is to move away from traditional passport stamping and replace it with a centralised biometric database that records who comes in, who leaves and how long they stay. EU officials say this will make border checks faster and more accurate, while also helping clamp down on overstays and illegal immigration. The Schengen Zone, established in 1985, comprises 29 members 25 of the 27 European Union member states, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It is the worlds largest area without internal border controls, allowing more than 400 million people to travel freely within it. That openness, however, also means the EUs external borders carry enormous pressure something the EES is meant to address. The system is being rolled out in phases and is expected to be fully implemented by April 2026. Under the EES, non-EU citizens entering or leaving the Schengen Zone have their fingerprints scanned and a facial photograph taken, with passport details logged into the system. The EES applies only to short-term visitors, such as tourists and business travellers, rather than long-term residents. Citizens of the EU are exempt from the EES. The system defines a non-EU traveller as someone who does not hold EU nationality or the nationality of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. This means the system applies to travellers from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The system is being rolled out in phases and is expected to be fully implemented by April 2026. Reuters To make this work, the EU has installed self-service kiosks at airports and at some train and bus stations. The process is free, and travellers can pre-register their details. Non-EU citizens are required to input their name, passport information, fingerprints, and the date and place of entry and exit. The machine also captures a photograph of the travellers face. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from fingerprinting. The EU has said anyone refusing to provide biometric details can be denied entry. At the same time, officials stress that the system does not track movements within the Schengen Zone itself. In other words, it records when you enter and when you leave not where you go in between. For frequent travellers, the system is meant to make repeat trips smoother. Once biometric details are stored, identities can be verified against existing records during subsequent visits. Registrations are valid for three years or until the travellers passport expires. The EU has said travellers data will generally be retained for three years before being deleted, though certain exceptions apply. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The EU has also said that border, visa and immigration authorities within the Schengen Zone will be able to access the data. This includes local police and Europol, the EUs law enforcement agency. In some cases, data can be shared with non-Schengen countries or international organisations such as UN bodies, though only under what the EU describes as strict conditions. Brussels insists all of this data collection is being done in line with EU data protection laws. Travellers data will be collected and stored in full compliance with EU data protection rules and rights, the European Commission has said. How and why it is causing delays The European Council last year said the EES is meant to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of controls at the EUs external borders. In theory, the system should eventually speed things up. In practice, it has done the opposite, at least for now. EU countries were initially told to register at least 10 per cent of all third-country arrivals via the EES. As of 9 January, this threshold was raised to 35 per cent. That jump has proved difficult to manage on the ground. According to Semafor, skiers arriving in Geneva have been made to wait as long as three hours. Travellers arriving in Tenerife in the Canary Islands have also faced massive delays. Airports have warned that wait times could stretch to six hours during peak travel periods, and there are already reports of people missing flights. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A Geneva Airport spokesperson told the _BBC_ that the EES is responsible for congestion particularly on Saturdays during the busy ski season, adding that the system has proved a major challenge for Swiss customs and Geneva Airport. Andrew Knight, who runs Sanasty Car Hire at Tenerife Airport, told the outlet that while some passengers breezed through passport control in about 20 minutes, other people are experiencing one-and-a-half to two-hour delays waiting to use the systems. A few times the systems have gone down, so its really hit and miss. Skiers arriving in Geneva have been made to wait as long as three hours. Reuters In fact, the EU had been warned. The Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said in December that the system has led to border control processing times at airports increasing by up to 70 per cent, with waiting times of up to three hours during peak traffic periods. Passengers in several countries including France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain have been affected. ACI Europe and airport authorities point to several reasons for the delays: STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD EES system outages Self-service kiosks being out of service or too few in number No automated border control gates at several airports No dedicated pre-registration EES app in many locations Too few border guards deployed because of staff shortages Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI Europe, warned that implementing the system in phases will inevitably result in much more severe congestion and systemic disruption for airports and airlines. He also warned of potential serious safety hazards if overcrowding at border control becomes unmanageable. Julia Lo Bue-Said, who runs travel agent network Advantage Partnership, told the BBC that without question, the new system has created even more bottlenecks and pinch points [in places] that were already challenged. Authorities are on the defensive EU officials have sought to play down the disruption, arguing that teething problems are inevitable with a system of this scale. Rolling out such a large-scale system is a complex task, Euronews quoted European Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert as saying. By extending the flexibility for the summer period, we give Member States the tools necessary to manage potential problems and, most importantly, avoid summer travel chaos. The European Commission has said that member states, which have until April 10, 2026, to fully implement the EES, can suspend the system, at least in part, for up to 90 days. They can also extend this by another 60 days to deal with peak tourist periods. Lisbon Airport exercised this option in December after serious deficiencies in the system led to waiting times stretching to as long as seven hours. Jankovec told the BBC that the ability to suspend the EES could be crucial during the summer months if the situation becomes unsustainable at border control. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Others in the travel industry have echoed similar concerns. We are urging border authorities to do all they can to minimise delays. They have contingency measures at their disposal such as standing down the system or limiting checks and we want them to be utilised to help manage the flow of people, said Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA, as quoted by Euronews. Where problems have been experienced so far, some of these could have been avoided if the contingency measures were applied. What travellers can do Non-EU travellers are being advised to plan for delays. Arriving early, building in extra buffer time before connecting flights, and keeping passports and details ready for biometric registration can help reduce stress at the border. But until the system is properly implemented, delays are likely to remain a feature of travel to Europe for the foreseeable future. With inputs from agencies Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who secured a landslide victory in snap elections, has singled out India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific. Experts say both countries are trying to diversify supply chains with an eye on China and could increase co-operation in maritime security, joint military exercises, and technology Sanae Takaichi, during her first speech to Japans Parliament on October 24, 2025, singled out India as a key partner in the region. Reuters Sanae Takaichis big gamble has paid off in spades. The conservative Japanese leader, known as the Iron Lady of Japan, has won a supermajority in Japans lower house of Parliament after calling snap polls. Takaichi, 64, who succeeded a struggling Shigeru Ishiba last year, has held on to her popularity since taking office. Now she has delivered a massive victory for the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Takaichi on her historic win. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Modi wrote on social media: Congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives! Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing global peace, stability and prosperity. I am confident that under your able leadership, we will continue to take the India-Japan friendship to greater heights." More from Explainers PM Takaichi eyes two-thirds majority as Japan goes to snap polls But what does Takaichis big win mean for India? Lets take a closer look IndiaJapan relations New Delhi and Tokyo have had congenial relations ever since they first established diplomatic relations in the aftermath of World War II. India and Japan first signed a peace treaty in April 1952. Over the years, a number of Indian leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Narasimha Rao, visited Japan. Meanwhile, then Japanese Prime Minister Kishi Nobusuke came to India in 1957, as did then Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko in 1960. Relations between the two countries were given the status of Global Partnership in 2000 under then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees tenure. In 2006, these ties were elevated to Strategic and Global Partnership. Finally, in 2014, ties were further raised to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Indian Prime Minister has undertaken several visits to Japan in 2014, 2016 and 2018 under then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and in 2025 under Takaichis predecessor, Ishiba. Bilateral trade (by the numbers): Total trade: $22.85 billion (around Rs 2.07 lakh crore) in 20232024. Japans exports to India: $17.69 billion (about Rs 1.60 lakh crore). Japans imports from India: $5.15 billion (around Rs 46,650 crore). India ranks 18th in Japans total trade with a 1.4 per cent share of trade, while Japan ranks 17th in Indias total trade with a 2.1 per cent share of trade. India mainly sends organic chemicals, vehicles, nuclear reactor parts, aluminium and fish to Japan. It imports nuclear reactor parts, copper, electrical machinery and equipment, inorganic chemicals, iron and steel from Japan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Japanese investment in India: Japan is Indias fifth-largest foreign investor. Cumulative Japanese investment (April 2000December 2024): $43.2 billion (around Rs 3.91 lakh crore). Recent annual flows: $1.79 billion (around Rs 16,214 crore) in 20222023 $3.1 billion (around Rs 28,077 crore) in 20232024 $1.35 billion (around Rs 12,227 crore) in 20242025 Japan has invested in Indias automobile, electrical equipment, telecommunications, chemical, insurance and pharmaceutical sectors. What her win means for India _News18_ noted how Takaichi, during her first speech to Japans Parliament on October 24, 2025, singled out India as a key partner in the region. In order to promote the main pillar of Tokyos diplomacy, a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, India is a crucial partner," Takaichi said. During her first formal conversation with Modi in October 2025, Takaichi vowed to open a new golden chapter in the JapanIndia Special Strategic and Global Partnership." She added that both countries share fundamental values and strategic interests" and that Tokyo wants to increase co-operation in security and the economy. In November 2026, at a meeting with Modi on the sidelines of the G20 summit, Takaichi told the Indian Prime Minister she wanted to make the ties more robust and prosperous". Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Johannesburg. (X) Takaichi, a noted China hawk, just weeks after taking office, caused the biggest rift with Beijing in over a decade by publicly musing how Tokyo would respond to an attack on Taiwan. China responded with several countermeasures, including urging its citizens not to travel to Japan. Japans Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told TV stations on Sunday evening that he wanted to push ahead with policies to strengthen Japans defence while pursuing dialogue with China. Beijing will not welcome Takaichis victory," said David Boling, principal at the Asia Group, a firm that advises companies on geopolitical risk. China now faces the reality that she is firmly in place and that its efforts to isolate her completely failed." This can only play to Indias advantage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD An Indian Express piece by Gurjit Singh, a former ambassador and Japanologist, noted how New Delhi over the years has risen as a natural and increasingly important trade partner of Tokyo. The piece noted how both countries have an eye on China and are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific. It also noted how both nations are trying to increasingly diversify supply chains. The piece added that India and Japan could see increased co-operation in maritime security, joint military exercises, and technology partnerships. It also noted how both countries are in the Quad grouping. Sanae Takaichis victory thus represents both continuity and rupture. Domestically, she has revived conservative confidence and market optimism. Regionally, she is steering Japan towards a more assertive role that will test its relations with China and reshape its strategic identity. For India, this moment offers an opportunity to lock in a deeper, more durable partnership with a Japan newly conscious of its power and purpose, the piece concluded. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that India aggressively sought to push the farm sectors interests, while protecting its sensitivities around dairy and agriculture in its trade deal with the US. Defending the trade deal between India and the United States, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that New Delhi aggressively sought to push the farm sectors interests, while protecting its sensitivities around dairy and agriculture. In an interview with The Times of India, Goyal gave insight into what went down during the negotiation of the deal, which was finalised earlier this month. We have $30-odd billion of imports. The important thing is that we have $55 billion of exports of farm and fish products. So, we should have an offensive interest, which is what we have focused on simultaneously, along with protecting the sensitive sectors, the union minister told the Indian news outlet. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is pertinent to note that the deal between India and the United States opens the doors for several products like tea, coffee, spices and fruits, with the US allowing their import at zero reciprocal tariff. At the same time, America is also helping seafood exporters compete favourably as the reciprocal tariff has been slashed to 18 per cent. Goyal maintained that the concern over the import of distillers dried grains with solubles, a feed ingredient that is a by-product of dry-milled ethanol production, is misplaced and that India has only opened a small window. Interests and sensitivities of the farmers protected The commerce and industry minister insisted that the agreement would help Indian exporters grow and boost two-way trade. When asked if he is satisfied with the trade deal, Goyal gave an affirmative response. This was long under negotiation, though not very long by FTA standards. It is very satisfying that the worlds largest democracies are coming closer together, further strengthening the most powerful relationship in the world, Goyal told TOI. To be able to grab that opportunity, we need to have better markets, open new vistas, attract investments, and attract technologies to India. Completing EU and US trade deals in a span of eight days is quite satisfying, in a way reflective of Indias emergence as a confident nation, he furthered. When asked about the nationwide farmers' protest, which is scheduled to take place on February 12, Goyal maintained that the interests of farmers are protected in the trade deal. Farmer bodies also understand that we have kept the sensitivities in agriculture fully protected and excluded areas of high production in India, where we are generally self-sufficient: meat, poultry, rice, wheat, sugar, all dairy items, all GM products, soybean and corn, Goyal explained. Theres hardly any item that any farmer can feel threatened. We have seen the import statistics. Right from Congress times, we have been importing soybean oil and tree nuts. We have heard this complaint that we have closed our doors to wines and spirits for no reason. Several fresh and processed fruits continue to be imported. They are not available in India in sufficient measure. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India imports 5.5 lakh tonnes of apples, and there are certain items which India needs. We have $30-odd billion of imports. The important thing is that we have $55 billion of exports of farm and fish products. So, we should have an offensive interest, which is what we have focused on simultaneously along with protecting the sensitive sectors, he added. Goyal insisted that India continues to hold the best comparative advantage. No problem in purchasing goods worth $500 bn from US in 5 years: Goyal In a separate interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Goyal said that India will have no problem in purchasing goods worth USD 500 billion from the US over the next five years, terming it a very conservative number. Currently, India could source imports worth $300 billion from the US that it currently buys from other nations. We are even today importing 300 billion dollars of goods that can be imported from the US. We are importing from all over the world. That is going to grow up to two trillion in the next five yearsI told my counterparts Look, I can assure you that there is demand in India, but you have to be competitive, Goyal told PTI. According to a joint statement following the finalisation of the trade deal, India has expressed its intention to purchase USD 500 billion of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products and coking coal over the next five years. The commerce minister revealed that big tech firms have announced large investments in India and, therefore, I sense that we will see 10 gigawatts of data centres in the country, and for that India will need equipment, which the US can supply. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When asked if this $500 billion purchase target also includes orders that India has already placed, Goyal said: Everything that we are talking about is in continuation and includes what we already are purchasing. Even today, he said, India is importing between USD 45-50 billion from the US, and these are products which India does not produce. We are going to need aircraft. We are going to need engines for aircraft. We are going to need spare parts. We already have USD 50 billion worth of orders on Boeing alone for aircraft. We have orders for engines, he added. With inputs from the PTI. PM Modi hails Seychelles as a key partner in Indias Vision Mahasagar, stressing on its strategic role in regional security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the joint press meet with President Dr Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles said the latter is an indispensable partner in Indias maritime initiative, Vision Mahasagar. He said this, highlighting the island nations strategic role in ensuring regional security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean. #WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "We will further expand our cooperation on renewable energy, resilience, and climate adaptation solutions. As maritime neighbours, the blue economy is a natural area of cooperation for us... Together, we will shape not only pic.twitter.com/G4668eCvc3 ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Vision Mahasagarshort for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regionsis Indias expanded maritime framework that builds on its earlier Sagar (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine, taking cooperation beyond South Asia to encompass the broader Indian Ocean Region and parts of the Global South. The initiative addresses maritime security, economic connectivity, disaster resilience, and sustainable development. Seychelles occupies a strategic geographic position along critical sea lanes linking Asia, Africa and Europe, making it vital for monitoring piracy, illegal fishing and other maritime threats. Its extensive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) also gives India a deeper operational reach in the Western Indian Ocean, reinforcing collective maritime security. India views Seychelles not just as a neighbour but as an inalienable partner in achieving shared goals for regional stability. What does Indias $175mn economic package for Seychelles cover? India and Seychelles have signed a $175 million Special Economic Package as part of efforts to deepen cooperation and support development across key sectors. The agreement will fund collaborative projects in areas such as social housing, electric mobility, vocational training, healthcare, defence and maritime security, along with other Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to bolster bilateral ties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Prime Minister Modi said the cooperation will expand trade in local currencies and include collaboration on fintech and digital solutions, stressing that these partnerships are shaped around Seychelles priorities and needs. A separate MoU was also signed to facilitate the training of Seychelles civil servants in India, enhancing capacity building and peopletopeople links. As part of the proposed changes, the EU is looking at more flexible travel arrangements for professionals who need to move frequently across Schengen countries. The European Union has unveiled its first-ever visa policy strategy, signalling major changes in how non-EU travellers, professionals and workers may access the Schengen Area in the coming years. One of the key proposals under discussion is allowing certain non-EU professionals to stay in Europe for longer than the current limit of 90 days within a 180-day period. While the plan is still at an exploratory stage, it reflects the EUs broader effort to adapt its visa system to global competition, labour shortages and growing travel demand. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to the European Commission, visa policy is no longer just about travel. It is also a strategic tool that helps the EU protect its security, strengthen its economy and build influence abroad. The new strategy aims to balance two goals: safeguarding the Schengen Area while enabling genuine travel that benefits Europe. The Commission wants visa rules to become more unified across member states. The plan focuses on shared standards, coordinated decision-making and digital systems that allow applications to be processed faster and more securely. The idea is to reduce fragmentation between countries and make travel smoother for visitors who move across borders. Visa-free travel remains central to the EUs global approach. The Union uses visa waivers as leverage in its relations with partner countries. Nations seeking visa-free access must meet conditions related to rule of law, security cooperation and migration management. In return, they gain easier access to Europe and its markets. The Schengen Area continues to be the worlds most visited region. Around 40 percent of global international travel crosses its external borders. Last year, EU member states issued more than 10 million visas to travellers from non visa-free countries. Tourism plays a major role in the European economy. It contributes about 10 percent of the EUs GDP and supports roughly 23 million jobs. Cultural tourism alone accounts for around 40 percent of all tourism in the region, benefiting sectors beyond travel and hospitality. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Commission says modern travellers expect faster and paperless visa procedures that remain secure. Simplifying access for tourists and business visitors is seen as key to keeping Europe competitive as a global destination. As part of the proposed changes, the EU is looking at more flexible travel arrangements for professionals who need to move frequently across Schengen countries. Touring artists and performers who work in multiple EU states could benefit from easier mobility while on tour. International athletes attending competitions across Europe may no longer need to apply for new visas repeatedly. Experts and consultants involved in short-term projects or cross-border assignments could be allowed to stay longer than the usual 90-day limit. Truck drivers and logistics workers, who are essential to supply chains, may see reduced bureaucracy when travelling for work. The Commission says these reforms aim to make travel safer and more convenient, while giving member states updated tools to process visa applications efficiently. If implemented, the strategy could mark a significant shift in how Europe manages mobility, talent and tourism in a changing global landscape. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Welcome to visa temples - religious shrines where faith flies abroad. Devotees believe that praying at these temples can help remove obstacles in getting their visas approved Many people visit these temples hoping their prayers will help with visa approvals. Applied for a visa and stressing over whether it will get approved? What if we told you theres a sure-shot way that countless travelers swear by for good luck? In India, a growing number of people are visiting visa temples - shrines where devotees pray specifically for success in obtaining visas for study, work, or overseas travel. While it might not guarantee approval, these temples have become a symbolic way for people to channel hope, faith, and positivity into one of lifes most stressful processes. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What are the visa temples all about? Visitors believe that praying here can bring good luck with their visa applications. AI generated Visa temples are not ancient sites originally built for this purpose. Instead, over time, they turned into traditional temples, Hanuman shrines, and gurudwaras that became popular among people seeking blessings for international travel. Thousands of visitors throng to these religious sites, often carrying their visa application papers, and perform special rituals as they pray for approval. For them, its about combining faith with their aspirations to fly abroad. 6 famous visa temples in India 1. Chilkur Balaji Temple, Hyderabad Chilkur Balaji Temple, also known as the Visa Balaji Temple, is famous for devotees praying here for successful visa approvals. Photo credit: Savaari Often called the Visa Balaji Temple, the Chilkur Balaji Temple near Hyderabad is arguably the most famous visa shrine in India. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Balaji), this centuriesold temple has become a symbol of hope for students and professionals seeking visas - especially for countries like the United States, Australia, and others. The temple is popular for its unique pradakshina (circumambulation) ritual: devotees perform 11 rounds around the sanctum while intently praying for visa success. Once their wish - often a visa approval - is fulfilled, they return to complete 108 rounds as a sign of gratitude. What sets Chilkur Balaji apart is its nodonations policy - there are no hundis (donation boxes), no paid darshan, and no VIP privileges - everyone is treated equally. Tens of thousands of people visit each week, making it one of the busiest spiritual hubs tied to global aspirations. 2. Shaheed Baba Nihal Singh Gurudwara (The Airplane Gurudwara), Punjab Shaheed Baba Nihal Singh Gurudwara, also called the Airplane Gurudwara, is visited by devotees who offer toy planes while praying for visa approvals. Photo credit: Sikhheroes Near Talhan village in Punjab, the Shaheed Baba Nihal Singh Gurudwara has earned the nickname Airplane Gurudwara or Visa Gurudwara because of one of its most striking traditions: devotees often offer toy airplanes at the shrine in hopes of receiving blessings for successful visas. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to local lore, the custom began when a young boy, after receiving his visa, returned to the gurudwara and left a symbolic airplane model in thanks - and ever since, others followed suit, turning the shelves into displays of miniature aircraft representing aspirations to travel abroad and work or study. 3. Prati Balaji Temple, Pune Prati Balaji Temple near Pune is a replica of Tirupati Balaji, where devotees pray for career growth, exams, and visa approvals. Photo credit: TripAdvisor Located in Ketkawale near Pune, the Prati Balaji Temple is a replica of the famous Tirupati Balaji shrine and has become a preferred destination for those seeking blessings related to career advancement, exams, and international opportunities. While not originally associated with visas, it now draws visitors who believe that the divine energy here can help remove obstacles to overseas travel and work aspirations. 4. Kalikambal Temple, Tamil Nadu Kalikambal Temple in Chennai is visited by devotees seeking blessings to remove obstacles, including for visa approvals. Photo credit: Tripadvisor In the heart of Chennai stands the Kalikambal Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal, an aspect of Goddess Durga known for removing barriers in devotees lives. Though not a traditional visa temple, it has recently become popular among students and professionals applying for visas, as many believe the goddess helps clear bureaucratic hurdles and guides them toward success abroad. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 5. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Uttar Pradesh Many believe that praying at Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple can help remove hurdles in getting their visas approved. Photo credit: Placeguider At the famed Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple in Varanasi, Lord Hanuman is worshipped as the remover of troubles. Devotees gather here to pray for strength and assistance - including for the often-daunting visa process. The belief is that Hanumans blessings can eliminate obstacles, be they personal challenges or complex bureaucratic issues like visa approvals. 6. Shree Siddhi Peeth Chamatkari Hanuman Mandir, Delhi In Delhis Neb Sarai area, the Shree Siddhi Peeth Chamatkari Hanuman Mandir has gained a reputation as a visa Hanuman temple. Many visitors undertake rigorous vows - including abstaining from meat, onion, and garlic for 41 days - hoping their devotion leads to a positive visa outcome. Devotees also write their wishes on slips placed before the deity, reinforcing their heartfelt plea. Operation Herof 2.0 may ultimately be remembered as the moment when Pakistan failed to realise that it is no longer the kingmaker playing the Great Game but a pawn in the hands of great powers getting played in the very same game Operation Herof 2.0 has exposed Pakistans militarys soft underbelly, as it has exposed the fragile foundations of Pakistans grand geopolitical vision. Image: AFP For nearly a decade, Pakistan promoted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as the foundation of its geopolitical revival, terming it a once-in-a-generation partnership that would elevate Islamabad from a fragile security state into the nerve centre of Eurasian trade and maritime strategy. CPEC was marketed with great aplomb as Pakistans ultimate escape route from its economic instability and strategic irrelevance. The recent Operation Herof 2.0 carried out by the Baloch insurgents has exposed how dangerously premature that calculus may have been. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The recent coordinated insurgent offensive across Balochistan is not simply another eruption of separatist violence. It represents a geopolitical turning point as it reveals not only the structural fragility of Pakistans internal security architecture but also exposes how Islamabad is now drifting into a far more dangerous strategic trap, one where it risks losing control of Balochistan not to insurgents alone but to the competing gravitational pull of the global great powers. Pakistan, which once imagined itself as the orchestrator of a great-power competition, now risks becoming its casualty. Chinas Corridor Dream Meets Balochistans Reality Chinas entry into Balochistan through CPEC was never purely economic. As a matter of fact, economically it was never even a viable option. Gwadar Port, sitting just outside the Strait of Hormuz, the worlds most critical oil chokepoint, represented Beijings boldest maritime gamble. Nearly one-fifth of global energy shipments pass through the narrow strait, making it one of the most strategically sensitive maritime corridors on the planet. For China, Gwadar promised something revolutionary: a proximity to the Persian Gulf energy lifeline without the dependence on the vulnerable Malacca Strait. It was meant to give Beijing a permanent strategic vantage point near the artery that fuels the global economy. But the renewed Baloch insurgency that has struck its roots time and again has brutally exposed the fragility of that vision. The recent insurgent attacks have once again demonstrated that Gwadar remains surrounded by contested territory where Pakistans control is neither absolute nor stable. Chinese engineers, infrastructure convoys, and security facilities have repeatedly come under attack, turning Gwadar into less of a maritime triumph and more of a fortified island surrounded by insurgent hostility. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Beijings response has been quite telling. While Chinese officials publicly reaffirm commitment to CPEC, investment momentum has quietly died as the new megaproject announcements have dwindled. The Chinese planning discussions on CPEC with Pakistan are now only dominated by the security concerns and the payback of the outstanding loans that it granted to Pakistan under the guise of CPEC. As Pakistan is increasingly failing to secure Balochistan politically and militarily, China appears to be recalibrating rather than retreating, but the recalibration signals a growing acceptance in Beijing that CPEC may never deliver the sweeping strategic dominance it once promised. Washingtons Counter-Move: The Pasni and Mining Pivot Sensing Chinas hesitation, Pakistan has begun repositioning itself as a geopolitical swing state once again. Islamabad is now aggressively pitching Balochistans rare earth reserves, copper mining concessions, and coastal infrastructure, including the other strategic maritime Pasni Port, to the Western investors, particularly the United States. Pasnis geographical advantage is undeniable. Located along the same strategic coastline as Gwadar, it offers proximity to the Strait of Hormuz and maritime energy routes critical to global trade. For Washington, whose naval doctrine prioritises securing global sea lanes, Pasni represents a potential counterbalance to Chinese maritime expansion. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pakistan appears to believe that it has discovered a masterstroke by playing China and the United States against each other to maximise investment inflows. In reality, it is engaging in a dangerously naive geopolitical gamble. Pakistan is offering access to regions where its own sovereignty remains contested. The mineral corridors, rare earth reserves, and maritime infrastructure Islamabad is marketing to global powers lie inside insurgency-affected zones where insurgent groups like the BLA and the TTP dominate the geography. Operation Herof 2.0 has once again revealed the shrinking limits of state authority that is selling this strategic geography despite clearly struggling to govern and control it. The Strait of Hormuz: The Real Prize Behind the Balochistan Battlefield The emerging interest of both China and the United States in Balochistan is not coincidental. It is driven by the gravitational pull of the Strait of Hormuz, the energy artery that connects Middle Eastern oil producers to global markets. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Control, surveillance, or even proximity to Hormuz offers immense strategic leverage. Gwadar gives China potential observation and logistical access to this maritime chokepoint. Pasni and associated coastal infrastructure could offer Western powers similar monitoring advantages. In essence, Balochistan has become the outer security ring of the Persian Gulf energy ecosystem. Operation Herof 2.0 demonstrates that this outer ring is dangerously unstable. Pakistans Suicidal Strategy: Playing Both Sides While Losing Control Pakistan believes that it has historically excelled at balancing great powers. During the Cold War, it navigated U.S. alliances while maintaining regional influence. After 9/11, it repositioned itself as a counter-terrorism partner while sustaining complex regional networks. But Balochistan presents a far more dangerous balancing act, as it has put Pakistan on a table of Russian roulette. By inviting China to anchor Gwadar while simultaneously offering mineral concessions and maritime alternatives to Western powers, Pakistan is attempting to monetise strategic geography through competitive patronage. This strategy might deliver short-term financial relief for Pakistan, but it risks creating overlapping spheres of external influence inside Pakistans most volatile province. History is a testament that such external competition rarely strengthens fragile states. It actually fractures them. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD History repeatedly shows that when great powers compete for access to contested territories, local sovereignty becomes collateral damage. Pakistan risks discovering that its attempt to leverage Balochistan as a geopolitical bargaining chip may ultimately completely dilute its authority over the province altogether. Operation Herof 2.0 and the Collapse of Military Legitimacy Perhaps the most dangerous consequence of Operation Herof 2.0 lies within Pakistans domestic power structure. The Pakistani military has long justified its dominant role in governance through its claim of being the ultimate defender of national unity. The Baloch insurgents ability to infiltrate, frequently disrupt and repeatedly seize administrative and security infrastructure, even temporarily, strikes at the heart of that legitimacy. Military power projection doesnt rest only on firepower but on perception. Operation Herof 2.0 has challenged this by both inflicting heavy damage to the military and seizing administrative control of key towns, albeit temporarily, thereby shattering the narrative that Pakistans armed forces maintain of having uncontested control over its strategic territory. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This erosion carries two devastating consequences. Domestically, it weakens the public confidence in the states ability, thereby weakening its militarys power grip. Internationally, it raises alarm among global investors and strategic partners who rely on Pakistans military to safeguard any of their strategic investments and interests. Pakistans strategic Achilles heel is in its homegrown insurgency that is leading to the gradual erosion of the institutional credibility its military is facing. The Internal Security Time Bomb External power competition in Balochistan risks intensifying internal security fractures. Competing foreign investments often create rival economic enclaves, security arrangements, and political patronage networks. Such fragmentation can fuel local power struggles and deepen separatist narratives. As Balochistan becomes a contested playground for Chinese and the Western strategic interests, Pakistan may find itself governing a province shaped increasingly by external geopolitical calculations rather than its own national policy coherence. The subsequent outcome would ultimately lead not to its perceived economic development but towards its imminent sovereignty erosion. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The New Great Game and Pakistans Dangerous Role The rivalry unfolding in Balochistan echoes the historical Great Game of the 19th century, when imperial powers competed for influence across Central and South Asia. In that earlier contest, regional territories often became battlegrounds for external competition rather than beneficiaries of geopolitical attention. The operational scale of Operation Herof 2.0 signals that Balochistan may be entering a modern version of that Great Game, one that is defined by energy security, maritime dominance, and rare earth resource competition. The Pakistan military junta under Field Marshal Asim Munir appears convinced that it can manipulate this rivalry to its advantage. Yet history suggests that states attempting to simultaneously appease competing great powers often lose strategic autonomy in the process. Given the geopolitical odds at play, instead of emerging as a geopolitical kingmaker, Pakistan has instead gravely put itself at risk of becoming a geopolitical fault line that will be prone to further fractures caused by the great powers pull and push. A Nation Caught Between Ambition and Reality Operation Herof 2.0 has exposed Pakistans militarys soft underbelly, as it has exposed the fragile foundations of Pakistans grand geopolitical vision. Chinas cautious recalibration of CPEC, coupled with Washingtons emerging interest in alternative Balochistan assets, along with the persistent insurgent defiance, collectively highlight a dangerous trajectory. Pakistan is attempting to transform Balochistan into a strategic marketplace for great-power competition. But in doing so, it is increasingly losing control of the very territory it is trying to monetise. If current trends continue, Balochistan could evolve into a region shaped less by Pakistans national strategy and more by the competing interests of external powers. The long-term consequences would not merely be economic or diplomatic. They would strike at the heart of Pakistans internal security, political cohesion, and territorial sovereignty. Operation Herof 2.0 may ultimately be remembered as the moment when Pakistan failed to realise that it is no longer the kingmaker playing the Great Game but a pawn in the hands of great powers getting played in the very same game. (Raja Muneeb is an independent journalist and columnist. He tweets @rajamuneeb. The views expressed in this article are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Firstpost.) Prime Minister Narendra Modis stand-alone visit to Malaysia in February 2026, his first overseas visit of the year and his third to the country, carried symbolism well beyond protocol. It came after a seven-year gap and was framed as a fulfilment of a promise made when Modi could not attend the India-Asean and East Asia Summits during Malaysias Asean chairmanship in 2025. In Kuala Lumpur, this punctuality mattered. It signalled trustworthiness and respect for Malaysias regional role. Yet the visit also exposed the limits of India-Malaysia convergence in a region increasingly shaped by China, competing trade blocs, and fractured Asean consensus. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD At one level, the visit underscored continuity. Since Anwar Ibrahim became prime minister, engagement with India has gained momentum. Anwar visited India in 2024, and Malaysia joined a growing list of Asean countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, seeking deeper bilateral ties with New Delhi under Indias evolving Asean Plus approach. This reflects Indias realisation that Asean unity is often more aspirational than real and that progress now depends on working with willing partners rather than waiting for collective decisions. Economically, Malaysia occupies a distinctive place in Indias Act East policy. It is neither Indias largest Asean trading partner (that distinction belongs to Singapore and Indonesia) nor its most dynamic manufacturing hub, like Vietnam or Thailand. But Malaysia combines Singapores technological sophistication with Indonesias commodity strength, particularly as a major supplier of palm oil. The shift in the bilateral agenda toward vehicles, railways, semiconductors, digital payments, and supply chains suggests an attempt to move the relationship beyond raw materials and into higher-value sectors. The efforts to link with the Malaysian semiconductor supply chain and enhance infrastructure and the digital economy are noteworthy. Green hydrogen, renewable energy, railways and local currency trading are good initiatives. The numbers, however, reveal modest ambition so far. Bilateral trade hovers around $20 billion and two-way FDI around $5 billion, below Indias engagement with other Asean economies. Malaysian firms have invested consistently in Indian infrastructure, FMCG, and technology, and the CEO Forum held during the visit pointed to new opportunities. Yet there remains a gap between potential and performance. The visit produced a large basket of MoUs digital payments, semiconductors, disaster management, health, vocational education, and social security for Indian workers but such agreements are only as meaningful as their implementation. Indias experience with Asean is replete with declarations that outpaced delivery. The unresolved issue of the Asean-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) review belied Indian hopes that Malaysias Asean chairmanship in 2025 would push the review to completion by December. That deadline was missed. Malaysia, despite being chair of the review committee, did not act assertively, possibly constrained by Aseans lack of consensus, possibly unwilling to invest political capital that risked internal friction. The outcome is paradoxical: while India negotiates new FTAs with the EU, GCC, EFTA, New Zealand, and Oman, it remains stuck with Asean, its closest geographic and strategic neighbours. Malaysias passivity on AITIGA contrasts sharply with its activism in launching an Asean-China-GCC trilateral initiative from which India was conspicuously excluded. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This exclusion matters. It highlights Malaysias careful hedging between India and China. On regional security, Malaysia remains cautious, particularly on the South China Sea. Unlike the Philippines or Vietnam, it avoids confrontational positions and has not taken a leadership role in the Code of Conduct negotiations. Defence cooperation with India continues through patrols and exercises, but deeper industrial collaboration remains stalled. The potential for shared maintenance and overhaul of Russian-origin aircraft has not yet materialised. Indias energetic pitch for the Tejas fighter aircraft failed to secure a deal. Zakir Naik remains a sore point. These are not merely commercial setbacks; they reflect Malaysias reluctance to be seen as drifting too close to India in ways that might irritate China. This hesitancy also explains why Malaysia has not joined initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (though it has now joined the International Big Cat Alliance) or the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), which Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines have embraced. Malaysias strategic instinct remains one of caution rather than alignment. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Internationally, Malaysia is asserting a more independent profile, sometimes even diverging from Indonesia. Its role as a Brics outreach partner and participation in Indias Brics presidency in 2026 point to this ambition. Yet Kuala Lumpur has been visibly annoyed that Indonesia leveraged an older invitation to become a full Brics member ahead of others. On geopolitical issues, Malaysia has refused to join Western-led initiatives such as Donald Trumps board of peace and has taken a strong pro-Palestine stance, reinforcing its domestic political priorities. Within Asean, Malaysia has been notably restrained on Myanmar and uncertain about the legitimacy of recent developments there, even as Thailand has taken the lead. This pattern of caution, consensus-seeking, and avoidance of bold leadership characterises Malaysias regional diplomacy and limits how far India can count on it as a strategic partner. Yet the visit manifested an effort to build a partnership on functional cooperation despite strategic divergences. It showcased a new diplomatic style from the PMs. PM Ibrahim personally received Mofi at the airport; they travelled together in the same car and appeared jointly at the diaspora event. This car diplomacy goes beyond symbolism; it reflects Modis emphasis on personal rapport as a tool of statecraft. Such gestures build trust and familiarity, particularly in Southeast Asia, where leaders value informality and continuity as much as formal agreements. This could help build beyond the endemic anxieties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The official talks were wide-ranging, covering trade, defence, maritime security, clean energy, start-ups, health, Ayurveda, education, and emerging technologies such as semiconductors and AI. Youth exchanges, university partnerships, and the opening of Indias first consulate in Malaysia signal an effort to deepen people-to-people ties; the delayed opening of an IIT in Malaysia is expected to be hastened. These softer dimensions of diplomacy may prove more durable than high-profile strategic initiatives. Ultimately, Modis Malaysia visit was neither a breakthrough nor a disappointment. It was a diplomatic catch-up, stabilising a relationship that had drifted into routine and reasserting Malaysias importance within Indias Act East policy. The visit exposed structural limits: Aseans paralysis on trade, Malaysias strategic caution, and Indias noting of being sidelined from new regional groupings. At the same time, it demonstrated that bilateralism can still advance even when multilateral frameworks stall. The new agenda is fulsome, with 10 listed outcomes, and the joint statement is not long but clearly aspirational. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The real test will lie in follow-through whether MoUs translate into projects, whether trade rises meaningfully, and whether Malaysia feels confident enough to engage India without constantly glancing toward Beijing. The role of the private sector is critical in this perspective. For now, the visit reflects a relationship that is friendly, pragmatic, and cautiously ambitious but still far from strategic convergence. In that sense, Modis Kuala Lumpur diplomacy remains a careful step toward keeping doors open in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific. (The writer is a former ambassador to Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Asean, and the African Union, and the author of The Mango Flavour: India & Asean After 10 Years of the AEP. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Firstpost.) Block Inc, the fintech giant led by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, is reportedly preparing to lay off hundreds of staff as part of a sweeping effort to streamline operations and regain investor confidence amid uneven performance and rising cost pressures. The San Francisco-based fintech group Block Inc, led by Jack Dorsey, is bracing for a significant round of layoffs that could see as much as 10 per cent of its global workforce trimmed, according to a report from Bloomberg. If confirmed, this would mark Blocks third wave of job reductions in just two years, signalling continued financial caution across the technology and fintech landscape. The company has so far declined to comment on the report. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Block layoffs 2026 The cuts are expected to affect several divisions and are likely to align with ongoing year-end performance reviews running through February. The report said that hundreds of employees have already been informed their roles could be affected as Block conducts its annual performance evaluations. The move forms part of a wider efficiency push designed to streamline the companys structure and cut costs amid a challenging operating environment. As of the end of November, Block employed roughly 11,000 people worldwide, meaning the planned cuts could affect over a thousand roles. The company has not yet issued an official statement on the matter and, according to Bloomberg, declined to comment outside regular business hours. Block layoffs in the last few years This fresh round of layoffs follows 931 job losses in March 2025 and 1,000 cuts in January 2024, as the company continues to tighten operations and respond to slower growth. Since 2024, Block has been in the middle of a major restructuring drive, aiming to bring Cash App and Square closer together to streamline operations and cut overlapping costs. The move is designed to create a more connected ecosystem between consumers and merchants, something investors see as key to boosting profitability. In the process, Block has wound down several side ventures, including its decentralised tech division TBD and parts of its Tidal music streaming business. These pullbacks mark a clear shift away from experimental initiatives toward core revenue streams. Despite the belt-tightening, Dorseys firm continues to invest in next-generation technologies, especially bitcoin and artificial intelligence. Among its newer projects is Goose, an AI-powered productivity tool built internally to enhance workflow across the company. The shift reflects Dorseys long-term goal of embedding AI deeper into Blocks products and internal systems. Tech layoffs ripple across the industry Blocks restructuring isnt happening in isolation. The latest news lands amid a broader wave of layoffs across the tech world, where companies are grappling with rising costs, cautious investors, and a growing reliance on AI automation. In January 2026, Bloomberg reported that Amazon had also begun cutting thousands of white-collar jobs across multiple divisions, including AWS, Prime Video, retail, and human resources, as part of a plan to trim around 30,000 roles. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While some reports linked the cuts to increasing AI integration, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy clarified during an earnings call that the move was not financially or AI-driven. Instead, he cited the companys evolving structure, You end up with a lot more people than what you had before, and you end up with a lot more layers. Even so, Jassy has acknowledged that AI efficiencies are gradually reducing the need for certain corporate roles, a reality that mirrors the transformation across much of the tech sector. As companies like Block and Amazon recalibrate for an AI-first future, the question looming over Silicon Valley is whether automation will unlock growth, or keep claiming jobs along the way. With a 20-year tax holiday for data centres and regulatory clarity, its clear that digital infrastructure remains a national priority. Experts as well as markets reacted positively to the Budgets AI- and semiconductor-related proposals even as they flagged some nuances. With the Union Budget 2026, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made it clear that digital infrastructure remains a national priority, according to experts. Even as the markets fell to their lowest in seven years, stocks of the digital ecosystem data centres, artificial intelligence (AI), and technology companies soared on the Budget Day and in subsequent days as Sitharaman proposed incentives and regulatory clarity. Firstly, Sitharaman proposed that foreign companies setting up data centres in India for services to customers abroad would not pay any income tax till 2047. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Secondly, Sitharaman proposed a safe harbour of 15 per cent on cost in case the company providing data centre services from India would be a related party. The Budgets proposals strengthened Indias goal of becoming a global center for cloud, AI, and data-led services and makes digital infrastructure a national priority, marking a significant step toward expanding the digital economy, drawing in international investment, and producing skilled jobs, according to Sachin Tayal, Managing Director, Protiviti India. Investors responded positively and data centre, AI, and tech-related stocks rose on the Budget Day and have continued to be in the green since. AI, data centre, and tech stocks have risen since the Budget Day Stock Initial Reaction (Feb 1) Recent Price (early Feb 2026) Approx. Change Since Feb 1 E2E Networks +10% to 2,526 ~2,4983,177 +~510% Anant Raj +78% to 570 563 +~6% Netweb Technologies -5% initially 3,177 Flat to +2% Coforge Minor gains in IT rally N/A (downtrend noted) ~02% TCS Part of IT uptick N/A ~13% Persistent Systems +0.23% in IT N/A ~13% Wipro +3.4% to 244 N/A (1-mo down 7.88%) +~23% short-term (Source: Perplexity Finance) Experts said the investors confidence has increased as Sitharamans proposals incentivised the setting up of data centres in India, provided regulatory and compliance clarity, and conveyed the governments push for India to be the global back end for cloud and AI services and not remain a consumption market. The budget recognises that AI leadership is built on infrastructure and investments that the Budget encourages in data centers and digital foundations will help Indian enterprises move from AI pilots to large-scale, production-grade adoption, according to Dhrubobrata Ghosh Dastidar, MD at Protiviti India. Policy intent now needs to be matched with execution Now that the Union government has rolled out proposals, the industry needs to match the policy intent with execution, according to Tayal. Companies must strengthen their operating models, manage risks better, use technology responsibly, and also invest in cybersecurity and compliance. Companies that will combine growth with resilience and strong governance will be best equipped to compete on a global scale and make a significant contribution to establishing Indias long-term economic leadership, Tayal told Firstpost. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the Budget, the focus also remained on citizen-centric approach on AI. Indias AI strategy prioritises diffusion of AI for the common person, focusing on use cases in healthcare, agriculture, education and government services, including multilingual and multimodal interfaces for citizens, Bharath Reddy, an Associate Fellow with the High-Tech Geopolitics Programme at Takshashila Programme, noted in an analysis. All 11 mentions of AI in the budget speech refer to use cases across governance, agriculture, accessibility, education, and skilling, noted Reddy. Dastidar said that the Budget showed that Indias semiconductor ambition is now matured. He added the focus is no longer just on attracting fabs, but on building a complete ecosystem spanning design, advanced packaging, and resilient supply chains. But experts also flagged areas where progress has been slow and budgetary spending has not matched allocation. In her Technopolitik newsletter, Takshashilas Anwesha Sen noted that while chip assembly and testing have been proceeding well in Indias semiconductor ecosystem, and the steady rise in disbursements in absolute terms indicates on-ground progress, the budgeted outlay for a fab shows a muted picture. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Despite the budgeted allocations for the Dholera fab in financial year 2024 and 25, nothing was disbursed, and the revised estimate in FY 26 are also substantially lower than the budgeted allocations. Thus, it indicates that the project is progressing much more slowly than the governments own projections, according to Sen. Similarly, efforts to modernise the government-owned research and development fabrication unit in Mohali did not see much success as virtually nothing has been spent yet despite allocating money for it in several budget, according to the analysis. The EU executive told Meta to give rival AI chatbots access to WhatsApp after a probe found the US giant to be in breach of the blocs competition rules. The tech giant rejected the commissions preliminary findings. The EU executive on Monday told Meta to give rival chatbots access to WhatsApp after an antitrust probe found the US giant to be in breach of the blocs competition rules. The European Commission said a change in Metas terms had effectively barred third-party artificial intelligence assistants from connecting to customers via the messaging platform since January. Competition Chief Teresa Ribera said the EU was considering quickly imposing interim measures on Meta, to preserve access for competitors to WhatsApp while the investigation is ongoing, and avoid Metas new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe." STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The EU executive, which is in charge of competition policy, sent Meta a warning known as a statement of objections, a formal step in antitrust probes. Meta now has a chance to reply and defend itself. Mondays step does not prejudge the outcome of the probe, the commission said. The tech giant rejected the commissions preliminary findings. The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene, a Meta spokesperson said. There are many AI options and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships. The commissions logic incorrectly assumes the WhatsApp Business API is a key distribution channel for these chatbots, the spokesperson said. Opened in December, the EU probe marks the latest attempt by the 27-nation bloc to rein in Big Tech, many of whom are based in the United States, in the face of strong pushback by the government of US President Donald Trump. Meta in the firing line The investigation covers the European Economic Area (EEA), made up of the blocs 27 states, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway with the exception of Italy, which opened a separate investigation into Meta in July. The commission said that Meta is likely to be dominant in the EEA for consumer messaging apps, notably through WhatsApp, and accused Meta of abusing this dominant position by refusing access to competitors. We cannot allow dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage, Ribera said in a statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD There is no legal deadline for concluding an antitrust probe. Meta is already under investigation under different laws in the European Union. EU regulators are also investigating its platforms Facebook and Instagram over fears they are not doing enough to tackle the risk of social media addiction for children. The company also appealed a 200-million-euro fine imposed last year by the commission under the online competition law, the Digital Markets Act. That case focused on its policy asking users to choose between an ad-free subscription and a free, ad-supported service, and Brussels and Meta remained in discussions over finding an alternative that would address the EUs concerns. (Except the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff) OpenAIs plans to enter consumer hardware is no secret, but the company might be working on two products already. According to fresh leaks and industry chatter, the San Francisco-based company is exploring audio wearables with two variants. The rumour has it that a basic version will come before launching more advanced devices. OpenAI has dominated headlines with its powerful AI models. Now, it looks poised to make its first serious push into consumer hardware, and the initial product might be surprisingly modest. Rather than unveiling a full-blown AI gadget akin to a phone or standalone smart device, the company could begin with something familiar and far less complex: AI-enabled earbuds. Firstpost previously reported that the earphones, codenamed Sweatpea, is in the making and will be the first OpenAI AI device. But now, the latest leaks and patent filing point at another smart earbuds by the company, named Dime STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This entry-level device could arrive as early as late 2026, with wider availability expected in early 2027. Basic earbuds first, advanced device later Industry tipster Smart Pikachu and a recently surface patent filing in China suggest that the upcoming earbuds will be OpenAIs first attempt at integrating AI into wearable audio hardware. Codenamed Dime apparently references the compact, accessible nature of the product. Yesterday my good friends at DS report on Weibo that CNIPA patent filing for Openai hardware become public yesterday for new IP rule for big Usa Ai companys operating in China Document confirm a detail I am already hearing: consumer name for Sweetpea airpod product will be Smart Pikachu (Weibo) (@zhihuipikachu) February 6, 2026 Rather than diving straight into a high-end, screen-packed device, OpenAI seems to be choosing a quick win approach. A basic audio-centric wearable could act as a hands-free gateway to its AI models, letting users interact with intelligent assistants via voice commands and real-time responses without pulling out a phone. This strategy could smooth OpenAIs first steps into the hardware market by keeping production costs and technical hurdles lower. Several reports suggest that a more advanced AI device, once envisioned to include powerful onboard computing, may be delayed due to supply constraints. High bandwidth memory (HBM) shortages have pushed up component costs, making the more ambitious design less feasible for an immediate launch. By starting with earbuds, OpenAI would be testing the consumer waters with a simpler product, building experience and brand trust before tackling more complex smart devices. What this means for OpenAIs hardware future OpenAI has openly confirmed that a first physical AI device is on the horizon, though the company has yet to lay out a timeline or product specifics. Chris Lehane, the firms Chief Global Affairs Officer, recently acknowledged that the hardware will arrive in 2026, without revealing what form it might take. This hardware push follows a major acquisition in 2025, when OpenAI bought io Products Inc., a startup cofounded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, in a deal worth about $6.5 billion. The move signalled the companys serious intent to build AI-native devices with a design ethos that echoes the seamlessness and simplicity of leading consumer tech. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We like OpenAIs strategy to a staged rollout: start with something modest and voice-focused, like earbuds, before expanding to broader AI hardware offerings. Rumoured future gadgets include pins, glasses, and other wearables, though details remain speculative. Taiwan has told the US it is impossible to shift 40 per cent of its semiconductor capacity abroad, reaffirming that its chip ecosystem will remain centred at home despite expanding investment in America Semiconductor chips are seen on a circuit board of a computer in this illustration picture taken February 25, 2022. REUTERS TAIPEI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - It would be impossible to move 40% of Taiwans semiconductor capacity to the U.S., the islands top tariff negotiator said, pushing back against recent comments by American officials who called for a major production shift. In an interview with Taiwanese television channel CTS that was broadcast late on Sunday, Taiwan Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun said she had made it clear to Washington that Taiwans semiconductor ecosystem, built up over decades, could not be relocated. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I have made it very clear to the United States that this is impossible, she said, referring to the 40% goal the U.S. has floated. That ecosystem will continue to grow in Taiwan, Cheng said, adding that the semiconductor industry would keep investing at home. Our overall capacity (in Taiwan) will only continue to grow, she said. But we can expand our presence in the United States. Our international expansion, including increased investment in the United States, is based on the premise that we remain firmly rooted in Taiwan and continue to expand investment at home. On Tuesday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the government needed to bring semiconductors to the U.S. You cant have all semiconductor manufacturing 80 miles from China, he said. Thats just illogical So we need to bring it back. When we leave office my goal, for this administration, is 40% market share in leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing. Taiwan and the U.S. reached a deal last month to lower tariffs on the islands exports to 15% from 20% and for Taiwan to increase its investment in the country. Cheng said that there would be no relocation of Taiwans science parks, but Taiwan was willing to share its experience in building an industry cluster and help the U.S. develop a similar environment. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD She also said she was confident that Taiwans semiconductor capacity - including existing, under construction and planned projects across advanced manufacturing, advanced packaging and the broader supply chain - would far exceed its investment in the U.S. or any other country. In an interview on CNBC last month, Lutnick said his goal was to bring 40% of Taiwans entire chip supply chain and production to the U.S. He said that if this does not happen, tariffs on Taiwan would likely rise to 100%. In September, Lutnick told U.S. television network NewsNation that Washingtons pitch to Taiwan would be a 50-50 split in making chips, the vast majority of which are now made on the island. Taiwan rejected that idea at the time. TSMC, the worlds largest contract chipmaker, is investing $165 billion to build factories in the U.S. state of Arizona. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.) Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis supported the ban of social media by children under 15, after similar announcements were made by the European nations. Governments and regulators worldwide are looking at the impact of childrens screen time on their development and mental wellbeing. Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Kick, YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, Reddit, Threads and X applications are displayed on a mobile phone. Most parents and experts conclude that social media and digital addiction are a problem for the youth. Representational image/Reuters Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said on Sunday he was in favour of banning the use of social media by children under 15, as a growing number of European countries consider similar restrictions. Countries including Spain, Greece, Britain and France are weighing tougher stances on social media use due to concern over the perceived negative effects on children, after Australia in December became the first nation to prohibit access to such platforms for the under-16s. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I am in favour because the experts I know say that it is terribly harmful to children. We must protect our children, Babis said in a regular video message posted on several of his social media accounts on Sunday, without giving further details. Later in the day, the governments first deputy prime minister, Karel Havlicek, told a television chat show on private broadcaster CNN Prima News that the cabinet was seriously considering proposing a ban. If it decides to go ahead, Havlicek said legislation would be proposed this year. Spain and Greece proposed bans on social media use by teenagers last week, as attitudes hardened in Europe against technology some say is designed to be addictive. The measures announced by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez drew fury from Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the X platform, formerly Twitter. Britain is considering an Australia-style ban, while France is working through legislation to ban children aged under 15 from social media use. Governments and regulators worldwide are looking at the impact of childrens screen time on their development and mental wellbeing. (Except the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff) Indias homegrown AI startup Sarvam AI has captured global attention after its model, Sarvam Vision, outperformed heavyweights like Googles Gemini and OpenAIs ChatGPT in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) benchmarks. But behind this remarkable success lies a story of innovation, ambition, and two visionary minds determined to build sovereign AI for India. When it comes to artificial intelligence, the conversation often revolves around Silicon Valley. Yet, a Bengaluru-based startup is quietly proving that India, too, can compete at this ever-growing AI race of research and development. Sarvam AI, founded in 2023, has made waves for its model Sarvam Vision, which recently achieved top scores in OCR, a core technology that allows machines to read and interpret text from images and documents. By outperforming leading global models, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Anthropic Claude, Sarvam Vision has established itself as a rising challenger in a field long dominated by Western tech giants. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But, this story is about the brains behind it. If you want to know more about Sarvam AI, here is the in-depth piece. Meet Pratyush Kumar and Vivek Raghavan: Brains behind Sarvam AI The driving force behind Sarvam AI are two accomplished technologists Pratyush Kumar and Vivek Raghavan who share a vision of creating sovereign AI models that are built in India, for India. Pratyush Kumar, CEO and co-founder of Sarvam AI, is a researcher and engineer with a PhD from ETH Zurich and a Bachelors degree from IIT Bombay. Before founding Sarvam AI, he worked with Microsoft Research, IBM Research, and served as an Adjunct Faculty Member at IIT Madras. Kumar is also known for spearheading initiatives like AI4Bharat, which focuses on Indian-language AI tools, and PadhAI, a platform aimed at providing affordable online learning opportunities. His work has consistently bridged the gap between academic research and real-world applications, especially in the field of language technologies. His co-founder, Vivek Raghavan, brings over two decades of experience in the field of Electronic Design Automation (EDA). Over his career, Raghavan has founded and successfully sold two EDA firms, in addition to holding senior leadership positions at Magma Design Automation, Synopsys, and Avant! Corporation. Beyond industry, Raghavan has played a vital role in Indias digital governance ecosystem. He served on the AI Committee of the Supreme Court of India, where he oversaw the rollout of SUVAS (Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software) an AI-driven translation tool used to convert court judgments and orders into Indian languages. He has also contributed to developing AI models for fraud detection in GSTN, advised the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and helped frame the Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA), a framework designed to give users greater control over their data. Together, Kumar and Raghavan represent a rare fusion of deep technical expertise, policy insight, and national vision, all of which underpin Sarvam AIs mission to create AI systems tailored to Indias linguistic and cultural diversity. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Why is Sarvam AI is taking over the headlines? Sarvam Visions success lies not only in its technical performance but also in what it represents: the possibility of world-class AI innovation from India. The model has attracted attention for outperforming larger and better-funded global AI systems on the OCR benchmark, a key measure of how effectively an AI model can extract and interpret text from complex images and documents. This is a crucial capability for applications ranging from document scanning and digital archiving to accessibility tools and language translation. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Pratyush Kumar highlighted how Sarvam Vision excelled across multiple OCR tests, reinforcing its ability to handle diverse, real-world datasets. Experts and industry watchers praised the achievement as a landmark moment for Indias AI ecosystem, proof that local innovation can match, and even beat, global competition. At Sarvam, we are committed to building Indias full-stack sovereign AI platform - from models grounded in Indian languages and datasets to applications deployed at population scale. We are grateful for these partnerships to provide us the opportunity to create impact at scale. Pratyush Kumar (@pratykumar) February 9, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Sarvam AIs broader ambition goes beyond one benchmark. The company is building foundational AI models entirely in India, with a focus on Indian languages, accessibility, and local use cases. While global AI players have often struggled to adapt to Indias linguistic diversity, Sarvam aims to make AI truly inclusive and representative. As global interest in sovereign AI, AI developed and owned within national borders, continues to rise, Sarvam AI is positioning itself as a pioneer of this movement. It is noteworthy that this comes after the country announced India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 during the Budget 2026-2027. As US President Donald Trump continues to promote his Make America Great Again dream, a latest analysis of the UN voting trend indicates that his turbulent policies are also making America alone. US President Donald Trump (L) and China's President Xi Jinping greet each other as they arrive for talks at the Gimhae Air Base, located next to the Gimhae International Airport in Busan on October 30, 2025. (AFP) As US President Donald Trump continues to promote his Make America Great Again Dream, dream, a latest analysis of the UN voting trend indicates that his turbulent policies are also making America alone. The Focaldata analysis also shows a latest trend of American allies siding with China. The analysis, based on UN voting data and public opinion surveys, showed world powers especially in Europe are less and less aligned with Washingtons stances. Meanwhile, diplomats from the worlds fastest-growing economies in particular are voting more with China. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The findings are coming at a time when Beijing is looking to bolster economic ties with traditional US partners, with the recent visits to China by the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. The shift could accelerate: The US pressure campaign against European liberal democracy is only just beginning, a Berlin-based expert wrote, adding that some officials in Europe are preparing to treat Washington as an outright adversary. The new world map or the world order In the Focaldata analysis, the researchers depicted the latest trend throught a map. The findings showed that the United States is looking increasingly isolated on the world stage. Based on the 2026 GDP estimates, the GDP-weighted mean position, the American advantage over China has collapsed by about 25 per cent. The European Union saw the largest shifts, moving by an average of 12 percentage points away from the United States. Canada, which used to be Americas most reliable ally, also moved 20 points. Canadas shift can also be seen with the countrys Prime Minister Mark Carneys recent visit to China. However, the US is not completely alone. Gulf states have moved towards the US, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar shifting by 13, 13 and 12 points respectively under the Trump administration. When we split out Trumps first and second terms, the shifts are even more stark. The European drift has accelerated since January 2025. However, the analysis found little evidence that European movements towards China are not due to the rise in pro-China sentiment. According to a survey conducted by the group, just 4 per cent of Britons have a favourable view of Xi Jinping, a paltry figure matched by the 4 per cent of Americans and 5 per cent of French people who are the same. Hence, the analysis believes that the shift is not due to Xis goodwill but because of Trumps isolatory policies. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a rare climbdown, US President Donald Trump was forced to delete a racist video depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. Even as he continues to disrupt the world order, his challenges are mounting at home that have started rattling Republicans. Even as US President Donald Trump continues to disrupt the world order, his mounting challenges mean he and his allies are rattled and its showing. In an unimaginable climbdown, Trump on Friday deleted a racist video that showed former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. The deletion came after several Republican lawmakers overtly condemned the video in an unprecedented pushback against the all-powerful president. Even as Trump refused to apologise, he said of course, I do when asked if he condemned the videos racist nature. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The pushback over the administrations racism may be the most overt opposition it has faced but the problems that its facing are many. Trumps signature immigration agenda is at risk as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is at the risk of losing funding soon as it is running on a two-week temporary funding and risks shutting down. For one, there is near-unanimous consensus that the Republicans are set to lose the 2026 mid-term elections. US surveys for 2026 elections: Pollster Dates Sponsor Margin Democrat Republican YouGov Jan. 30 Feb. 2 Economist Democrat +4 44% 40% Morning Consult Jan. 30 Feb. 1 Democrat +5 47% 42% Public Policy Polling Jan. 2930 Democrat +7 48% 41% HarrisX/Harris Poll Jan. 2829 Harvard CAPS Democrat +3 47% 44% HarrisX/Harris Poll Jan. 2829 Harvard CAPS Democrat +4 52% 48% Marquette University Law School Jan. 2128 Democrat +7 52% 45% Cygnal Political Jan. 2728 Democrat +4 48% 44% McLaughlin & Associates Jan. 2127 Democrat +2 46% 44% The Argument/Verasight Jan. 2627 Democrat +4 52% 48% Echelon Insights Jan. 2226 Democrat +5 49% 44% Beacon Research/Shaw & Company Res. Jan. 2326 Fox News Democrat +6 52% 46% YouGov Jan. 2326 Economist Democrat +5 43% 38% Morning Consult Jan. 2025 Democrat +1 44% 43% Morning Consult Jan. 2325 Democrat +2 45% 43% Ipsos Jan. 2325 Reuters Democrat +4 41% 37% Moreover, Trumps disapproval rating on the economy his biggest strength historically has hit a new high: just A new NPR-PBS News/Marist survey found that just 36 per cent of people approve of Trumps handling of the economy whereas 59 per cent disapproved. Republicans are bleeding in polls and are projected to lose mid-terms Since Trump assumed office, the Republican Party has been on a losing streak. They are widely projected to lose the 2026 mid-term elections. Trump has pitched the midterms as existential. In a desperate bid to cast doubt on election results well ahead of voting, he has doubled down on false conspiracy theories and urged that Republicans not government officials should conduct elections so that he could win. You got to win the midterms because if we dont win the midterms, theyll find a reason to impeach me. Ill get impeached, Trump said last month. Consider these facts: Republicans have lost both governor elections since Trump assumed office (New Jersey and Virginia), Democrats won all 13 statewide elections in November 2025, and Democrats flipped 21 per cent of Republican-held legislature seats. And the streak did not end last year. This year, Democrats have continued to score victories in deeply Republican pockets. Last week, Democrat Taylor Rehmet beat Trump-backed Republican candidate by a 14-point margin in a constituency that Trump had won in the 2024 election. Then, over the weekend, Democrat Chasity Verret Martinez defeated Republican Brad Daigle by 24 points in a constituency that Trump had won in 2024. In surveys (see the table above), the consensus is that Republicans are set to lose the mid-terms. Even if they lose just one Congressional chamber, the trifecta that has enabled Trump to govern without any checks and balances would be over as Democrats would mount Congressional pushback to Trumps excesses. Even Republicans are warning Trump While most of the Republican caucus is toeing Trumps line, there has been a surge in critical voices on the economy, anti-immigrant agenda, and Epstein Files. In the latest salvos, Florida State Senator Ileana Garcia, Co-Founder of Latinas for Trump, warned Trump that will lose the midterms because of the crackdown on immigrants planned by Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. Trump has unleashed thousands of masked armed agents in Democrat-run cities across the United States who have been widely condemned for harassing citizens and immigrants alike with their indiscriminate detentions, violence tactics, intimidation, and racist conduct. They have also killed two US citizens. In the latest NPR/PBS/Marist survey, 65 per cent of Americans and 21 per cent of Republicans disapproved of Trumps crackdown on immigrants. Three days before Bangladeshs national election, violence erupts as clashes between BNP and JamaateIslami supporters leave 40 injured, raising fears of an unstable, tense, and highly charged polling environment Women supporters of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chant slogans as they join in an election campaign in Dhaka, Bangladesh, January 28, 2026. File Image/Reuters With just three days to go before the national election on February 12, political tensions in Bangladesh have boiled over into fresh violence. At least 40 people were injured in violent clashes between supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the JamaateIslami during rival campaign activities in the Bauphal area of Patuakhali district on Sunday. The confrontation began when both parties organised separate processions and rallies, leading to exchanges of slogans that quickly escalated into running battles involving sticks and other makeshift weapons. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Many of the injured were treated at the Bauphal Upazila Health Complex, with some later referred to larger hospitals for further care. Law enforcement, including police, army and Coast Guard personnel, were deployed to restore order after clashes flared again in front of the local health facility. As violence unfolded, leaders from both sides traded accusations. A JamaateIslami leader claimed BNP activists launched an ambush against his supporters, while a BNP acting convener denied the allegation and instead accused Jamaat of stirring trouble for political gain. Rights groups have reported numerous incidents of clashes, injuries and even deaths in recent weeks, heightening fears that the upcoming vote will be marred by instability and communal tensions. Also read | Jobs, prices and democracy: Can issues that toppled Hasina govt decide Bangladesh election? A critical moment for Bangladesh This election is widely seen as a crucial moment for Bangladeshs political future, especially following the ouster of longtime leader Sheikh Hasina and the dramatic reshaping of the countrys political landscape. Analysts say a decisive outcome could shape the nations stability and international relations for years to come. #Bangladesh Election: 2,034 candidates contest Feb 12 polls amid massive security deployment A total of 2,034 candidates, including 275 independents, are contesting the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) Election and Referendum scheduled for February 12, the Election pic.twitter.com/6glceu6Jva DD News (@DDNewslive) February 8, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As the nation heads into voting day, security forces are on high alert, and calls for calm and fair electoral conduct are mounting from civil society and international observers alike. Chinas top court has overturned the death sentence of a Canadian national in a long-running drug smuggling case, ordering a retrial. The move comes weeks after Carneys visit to China. Robert Schellenberg was detained in China in 2014 on suspicion of drug smuggling. Image: Agencies. Chinas Supreme Peoples Court has overturned the death sentence of a Canadian man convicted on drug charges, his lawyer said on Monday, marking a major development in a case that has weighed heavily on diplomatic relations between Beijing and Ottawa for years. The decision comes just weeks after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carneys visit to China, adding to signs of a cautious thaw in ties. Who is Robert Schellenberg? Robert Schellenberg was detained in China in 2014 on suspicion of drug smuggling. He was convicted in 2018 and sentenced to 15 years in prison. However, following a retrial in January 2019, his sentence was escalated to death a move that came shortly after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Vancouver on a US extradition request, sharply escalating tensions between the two countries. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Supreme court orders retrial Beijing-based lawyer Zhang Dongshuo said the Supreme Peoples Court last Friday rejected the death sentence imposed by the lower court and ordered the case to be sent back to the Liaoning Provincial High Peoples Court for a retrial. The ruling comes about a year after Canada disclosed that four Canadian citizens had been executed in China on drug-related charges, underscoring the sensitivity of such cases. Diplomatic context and Canadas response The court decision follows Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carneys four-day visit to China less than a month ago, during which both sides spoke of stabilising relations after years of strain under former prime minister Justin Trudeau. A spokesperson for Canadas foreign ministry said Ottawa was aware of the ruling and would continue to provide consular assistance to Schellenberg and his family. Zhang suggested the timing of the decision was likely linked to recent diplomatic engagement, though he cautioned that the chances of an eventual acquittal remain slim given the seriousness of the charges. China says courts acted independently Chinas foreign ministry rejected any political link, insisting the case was handled independently by the judiciary. Chinese judicial organs independently heard the relevant case and issued a judgement in accordance with the law, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said. Case that strained bilateral ties Schellenbergs death sentence had been upheld by the Liaoning court in 2021, prompting strong condemnation from Canada. Relations had already deteriorated after China detained two Canadian citizens on espionage charges following Meng Wanzhous arrest a move widely criticised as hostage diplomacy. The two were released in 2021 on the same day the US dropped its extradition request and Meng returned to China. Trade tensions and recent thaw Ties worsened further in 2024 when Canada imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, echoing similar US measures. China retaliated with tariffs on more than $2.6 billion worth of Canadian agricultural and food products, including canola oil, meal and seed. Following Carneys visit, both countries agreed to roll back tariffs on electric vehicles and canola, signalling a significant shift in policy. Analysts say the warming of CanadaChina ties could reshape the political and economic dynamics of ChinaUS rivalry, even as Ottawa is expected to remain closely aligned with Washington. China has issued a strong warning to Japan following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis election victory, as tensions between the two countries flare over her remarks on Taiwan. China on Monday warned Japan that any reckless actions would be met with a resolute response, a day after Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, seen as critical of Beijing, secured a landslide election victory. The warning comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries following comments made by Takaichi in November, in which she suggested that Tokyo could intervene militarily in the event of an attack on self-ruled Taiwan. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the democratic island under its control. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Beijing urges Japan to retract remarks A spokesperson for Chinas foreign ministry urged Japan to retract Takaichis comments and warned of consequences for any rash actions. If the far-right forces in Japan misjudge the situation and act recklessly, they will inevitably face resistance from the Japanese people and a resolute response from the international community, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing. We once again urge the Japanese side to retract the erroneous remarks made by Takaichi regarding Taiwan and demonstrate basic sincerity in safeguarding the political foundation of ChinaJapan relations through concrete actions, he added. Following Takaichis remarks in November, China discouraged its nationals from travelling to Japan, citing deteriorating public security and criminal acts against Chinese citizens. Tensions escalated further in December when Chinese military aircraft reportedly locked radar onto Japanese jets, prompting Tokyo to summon Beijings ambassador. Rare-earth curbs, panda departure China has also reportedly restricted exports of rare-earth products to Japan, materials critical for industries ranging from electric vehicles to defence systems. Last month, two giant pandas were returned from Tokyo to China, leaving Japan without the animals for the first time in 50 years. Brenton Tarrant, the Australian man who murdered 51 Muslim worshippers at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2019, is seeking an appeal against his conviction Brenton Tarrant, the Australian man who murdered 51 Muslim worshippers at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2019, is seeking an appeal against his conviction. The Australian man is knocking on the doors of New Zealands highest courts to withdraw his guilty pleas and hold a new trial in the case. It is pertinent to note that Tarrant pleaded guilty to 51 counts of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and terrorism charges in March 2020. Before this, Tarrant told the media that he would defend the charges. In August 2020, Tarrant became the first person in New Zealand under the current laws to be sentenced to life in prison without the chance of ever walking free. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, in 2022, he filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal for both his convictions and sentences. With the latest appeal, the court will now consider whether the appeal can proceed as it was filed outside the legislated time frame to do so. Tarrant to deliver evidence As he withdraws his guilty plea, the 35-year-old will be giving evidence to the court via video link during the week-long hearing in Wellington, which begins on February 9. According to court documents, the court will be primarily considering the application to vacate the guilty pleas. The central issue before the Court will be whether at the time Mr Tarrant entered his guilty pleas he was incapable of making rational decisions as a result of the conditions of his imprisonment, which he says were torturous and inhumane, the doccument read. It is important to note that if the court grants the application to vacate the pleas, the case will be returned to the high court for the terrorist to stand trial. If this appeal declines, the court would consider the sentence hearing. The hearing for the same is scheduled later this year. Security was ramped up outside the court of appeals as soon as the news was made public. The counsel and authorised people are permitted to attend the hearing inside the courtroom. Limited space for the public has been made in an adjoining room, while provision has been made for victims and family members to view the hearing in Christchurch via a delayed broadcast. About the case According to the police record, Tarrant was moved to New Zealand in 2017, planning to carry out a white supremacist attack. In 2020, the court learned that the convict had planned the mass shooting for months, conducted reconnaissance at the mosques, distributed a manifesto expressing his racist views before he opened fire, and live-streamed part of the assault on Facebook. In the wake of the attacks, New Zealands former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern-led government banned military-style semi-automatic rifles and created a firearms registry. An inquiry into the attacks is the largest coronial investigation New Zealand has seen and is still underway. In October 2025, the countrys High Court left the door open for Tarrant to be called as a witness at the inquest, despite objections from survivors and families of the victims. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD China on Monday rejected US accusations that it had conducted secret nuclear explosive tests, calling the claims outright lies and accusing Washington of using them as a pretext to restart its own nuclear trials The AI-generated image shows flags of the United States and China. (Representational Image) China on Monday rejected US accusations that it had conducted secret nuclear explosive tests, calling the claims outright lies and accusing Washington of using them as a pretext to restart its own nuclear trials. At the UN Conference on Disarmament in Geneva on Friday, Thomas DiNanno, US under secretary of state for arms control, accused China of carrying out nuclear tests, including one on 22 June 2020, and of preparing for additional tests with massive yields. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US allegations are completely groundless and are outright lies. China firmly opposes the US attempt to fabricate excuses for its own restarting of nuclear tests, AFP quoted Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs as saying in a statement on Monday. It also urged the United States to immediately stop its irresponsible actions. US President Donald Trump said in October that Washington would start testing nuclear weapons on an equal basis with Moscow and Beijing, without specifying the type of testing it planned to resume. DiNannos remarks accompanied the presentation of a new US proposal calling for three-way talks with Russia and China to set new limits on nuclear weapons, following the expiration of the New START treaty the last arms control agreement between Washington and Moscow which lapsed last Thursday. China has already declined to participate in disarmament negotiations at this stage. With inputs from agencies Cuba has warned airlines it is suspending jet fuel supplies for a month because of an energy crisis prompted by the US attack on Venezuela, an official at a European carrier said Sunday. Aerial view of Jose Marti International Airport in Havana, taken from an airplane on April 3, 2025. AFP Cuba has warned airlines it is suspending jet fuel supplies for a month because of an energy crisis prompted by the US attack on Venezuela, an official at a European carrier said Sunday. Cuba has told carriers serving the communist-run island that starting midnight Monday into Tuesday they cannot refuel there, the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Cuba is reeling from a US-ordered halt in oil shipments from Venezuela after American troops captured Nicolas Maduro. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Planes covering long-distance flights from Cuba will now have to stop somewhere after leaving the island to get more jet fuel, this official quoted Cuban aviation officials as saying. Air France told AFP its planes would stop somewhere else in the Caribbean to refuel. The Cuban government on Friday announced emergency measures to address the islands energy crisis, including a four-day work week for state-owned companies and fuel sale restrictions. The belt tightening measures include a reduction in bus and train services between provinces and the closure of certain tourist establishments. School days will also be made shorter and universities will relax requirements on in-person attendance. Washington has increased pressure on Cubas communist government in recent weeks. The United States cut off oil deliveries from Havanas key ally Venezuela following its ouster of Maduro in early January. President Donald Trump also signed an executive order allowing his country to impose tariffs on countries selling oil to Havana. Trump said that Mexico, which has been supplying Cuba with oil since 2023, would stop doing so under threat of US tariffs. The oil shortages have threatened to plunge Cuba into complete darkness, with power plants struggling to keep the lights on. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Washington has long sought to overthrow or weaken the communist-led Cuban government. Havana accuses Trump of wanting to strangle the islands economy, where power cuts and fuel shortages, already recurrent in recent years, have become even more acute. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said his country was willing to hold talks with the United States, but not under pressure. Nine people were killed after an old residential building collapsed in Tripoli, prompting evacuations and renewed warnings over the citys unsafe structures The death toll from a building collapse in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli rose to nine on Sunday, according to a civil defence official, marking the second such incident in the city in recent weeks. The state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported the fall of an old building in the Bab al-Tabbaneh neighbourhood, the poorest area in the already impoverished city. Rescue crews continued to look for survivors as operations stretched into the night. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Security teams evacuated nearby buildings due to concerns that more structures could give way. An AFP correspondent observed rescue workers clearing rubble while ambulances waited at the scene. Civil defence director general Imad Khreish told local media that six survivors had been taken to hospital. Dozens believed to have been inside Khreish said the collapsed structure consisted of two blocks, each with six apartments. Residents estimated that around 22 people were inside when the building came down. Local activist Jumana al-Shahal described the collapse as a testament to the accumulated neglect of this forgotten city. Mayor Abdel Hamid Karimeh told reporters that we declare Tripoli a disaster-stricken city due to the number of unsafe buildings. Thousands of our people in Tripoli are threatened due to years of neglect, he said. The situation is beyond the capabilities of the Tripoli municipality. This latest disaster follows another deadly building collapse in Tripoli late last month. After Sundays incident, the NNA said angry young men took to the streets on motorbikes, with some heading towards the offices of politicians and vandalising metal barriers outside. Long-standing structural risks In January, the head of the higher relief authority, Bassam Nablusi, citing municipal figures, said 105 buildings required immediate warning notices to their residents to evacuate. Local media reported that Sundays collapsed building was not on the list of structures deemed at imminent risk. Lebanon has many derelict or poorly maintained buildings, including structures erected illegally during the 1975-1990 civil war or modified with additional floors without permits. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said the government stood ready to provide housing allowances to residents who must leave unsafe buildings. In a statement, he condemned what he called a humanitarian catastrophe resulting from long years of accumulated neglect. His office added that he had summoned the justice and interior ministers for an emergency meeting. Investigation ordered Justice Minister Adel Nassar asked the public prosecutor in the north to open an immediate investigation into the incident, the NNA said, reporting that procedures had begun. A recent report by research and design firm Public Works Studio said several buildings fully or partially collapsed in Tripoli in January. It cited causes including unplanned urban expansion and a lack of proper construction oversight. In 2024, rights group Amnesty International said thousands of people were still living in unsafe buildings in Tripoli more than a year after a major earthquake centred on Turkey and neighbouring Syria had had weakened the structures. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Even before the February 2023 quake, Tripoli residents had raised the alarm about their dire housing situation, caused by decades of neglect and contractors lack of compliance with safety regulations, it said. The situation was compounded by Lebanons years-long economic crisis meaning residents could not afford repairs or alternative housing, it added, urging authorities to urgently assess the safety of buildings across the country. (With agency inputs) Emails released in the US appear to show Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor sharing official trade documents with Jeffrey Epstein in 2010, adding to scrutiny surrounding his links to the late sex offender Emails released in the US appear to show that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, younger brother of King Charles, shared official British trade documents with Jeffrey Epstein in 2010. The material, reportedly forwarded from his position as a government trade envoy, included reports on Vietnam, Singapore and other destinations connected to an official trip. Trade envoys are typically prohibited from disclosing sensitive or commercial information under confidentiality rules. Long-running scrutiny over Epstein ties Andrew, 65, has faced sustained scrutiny over his association with Epstein, a relationship that resulted in the loss of his royal roles, titles, and residence. He has always denied any wrongdoing. The continuing disclosures from the Epstein files have also engulfed Keir Starmers administration. Starmer appointed Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States, prompting criticism due to his acquaintance with Epstein. As with Andrew, it appears Mandelson shared sensitive government papers with Epstein in 2009 and 2010, and police are investigating potential misconduct in public office. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Last week, Thames Valley Police confirmed they were reviewing a new allegation involving Andrew after claims surfaced of a woman being taken to an address in Windsor, following the latest document release. Stripped of royal titles Mountbatten-Windsor, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth II, stepped down from all official royal duties in 2019. King Charles III stripped his brother of his royal titles and honours late last year after Giuffre recounted the claims in shocking detail in a posthumous memoir. Last week it emerged a second alleged Epstein victim has claimed through her lawyer that the late US financier had sent her to Britain in 2010 to have sex with Andrew. The ex-prince, who has strenuously denied any wrongdoing, was ousted from his Windsor mansion home, just west of London, earlier than planned last week in the wake of the latest revelations. The files released in the US included newly damaging evidence, including a lawyers letter alleging that Andrew and Epstein pressured a woman hired as an exotic dancer for sex as part of a threesome in 2006. They also contained embarrassing photos of Andrew kneeling over a clothed woman lying on the ground, and emails inviting Epstein to Buckingham Palace to talk in private. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD (WIth agency inputs) The EUs newly introduced Entry-Exit System (EES) has become a pain for travellers, especially the non-EU nationals who are now facing three-hour delays at major European airports. The EUs Entry-Exit System is causing three-hour delays at major European airports as new digital border checks slow passport control for non-EU travelers. X The European Unions newly introduced Entry-Exit System (EES) has become a pain for travellers, especially the non-EU nationals who are now facing three-hour delays at major European airports. Authorities argue that the digital border check system, rolled out in recent months across the Schengen Area, requires fingerprints and facial scans that are taking much longer to process during peak travel times. Due to the tedious process, airports across Europe are facing long lines as the EES rolls out at the external borders of the Schengen Area. It is pertient to note that the digital border system started to be implemented in a phased manner in October. The system drastically changes how non-EU travellers are processed when entering and leaving the bloc. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As per the new system, travellers from countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, or any other European nation, must register fingerprints and a facial image the first time they cross the border. This biometric data would then replace the traditional passport stamping and would be stored in a shared database used by border authorities across participating countries. However, the airport operators argue that these extra steps are already slowing passport control at busy international hubs. Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said that border checks are taking up to 70 per cent longer in some locations, leading to waits of as long as three hours during peak travel times. The group noted that the impact is being felt most at airports that handle large volumes of long-haul flights. Airport operators raise concerns In light of the current delays, airport operators warned that the rollout is already causing disruption and could worsen as more travellers are added to the system. The ACI has called for an urgent review of the rollout timeline, citing operational and staffing challenges at major airports. Significant discomfort is already being inflicted upon travellers, and airport operations are being impacted, with the current threshold for registering third-country nationals set at only 10 per cent, said Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI Europe. He went on to warn that the increasing share of travellers required to register without resolving existing problems could lead to more serious disruption. Unless all the operational issues we are raising today are fully resolved within the coming weeks, increasing this registration threshold to 35 per cent as of January 9 will inevitably result in much more severe congestion and systemic disruption for airports and airlines, Jankovec said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He added that this will possibly involve serious safety hazards. The ACI Europe stated that airports in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Iceland have been among the hardest hit so far. What are the factors behind the delay? The airport authorities mentioned several factors behind the delay. They insist that many travellers must first use self-service kiosks to submit biometric data before reaching a border officer. When kiosks are unavailable, unfamiliar, or out of service, queues can quickly form. ACI Europe said some of the airports are also facing system outages and technical configuration problems. The group also pointed to the concerns about staff shortages, saying that there are not always enough trained border guards available to manage the added workload, especially during peak travel periods. Another issue is the lack of a widely available pre-registration option. Without the ability to complete biometric registration in advance, travellers would still have to stand in line at the airport, causing more headaches. EU remains adamant Amid all the criticisms, the European Commission has rejected claims that the ESS is broadly responsible for the long queues at airports. A Commission spokesperson said that the system was launched successfully across member states using a progressive approach. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The spokesperson noted that the member states have already exceeded early registration targets and that processing times have improved as border guards gain experience with the system. The Commission said that it has not received reports confirming widespread three-hour waits caused directly by the new checks. According to the Commission, queues are often linked to other factors such as flight schedules, staffing levels, or peak holiday travel. Officials also said that countries have the option to partially or fully suspend the system in exceptional circumstances to manage congestion. Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy was sentenced on Monday after being convicted of national security offences, with rights groups and Western governments warning the case underscores Beijings crackdown on dissent Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai attends the Seminar on Tenth Anniversary of Hong Kong's Handover organised by the Democratic Party in Hong Kong, June 9, 2007. File image/AP Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Monday over national security crimes that could see him jailed for life, with some rights groups and Western nations still demanding his release. The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper was found guilty in December on two counts of foreign collusion under a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing, as well as one count of seditious publication.British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he had raised the issue of Lai, a British citizen, during his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing last month, adding that the discussion was respectful.US President Donald Trump has also called for Lais release.Lai heard his sentence at an hour-long hearing before three High Court judges from 10 am (0200 GMT), according to the judiciary. He has already spent more than five years behind bars as the trial has progressed. The Committee to Protect Journalists said in a statement before Mondays sentencing that Lais trial has been nothing but a charade from the start and shows total contempt for Hong Kong laws that are supposed to protect press freedom. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Reporters Without Borders said the moguls sentencing will resonate far beyond Jimmy Lai himself, sending a decisive signal about the future of press freedom in the territory. Beijing has dismissed critics as smearing Hong Kongs judicial system, while Hong Kong authorities say Lais case has nothing to do with freedom of speech and of the press. Around 70 people braved the cold to queue outside the West Kowloon court at daybreak, while dozens of journalists gathered outside the buildings entrance. We hope that (Lai) can regain his freedom I am worried, because of his advanced age, said activist Tsang Kin-shing, a member of the now-disbanded League of Social Democrats. Apple Daily has shut down and the medias mentality has changed completely, Tsang told AFP. The mood outside court was tense as police deployed dozens of officers, an armoured car and a bomb disposal van to the area. Stiff penalties Long a thorn in Beijings side, Lai was prosecuted under a Hong Kong national security law that was imposed by Beijing in 2020, a year after huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in the finance hub. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The judges said in their verdict in December that Lai had harboured his resentment and hatred of (China) for many of his adult years and sought the downfall of the Chinese Communist Party. On Monday, they are expected to first decide whether Lais collusion offences were of a grave nature and, if so, settle on a prison term of between 10 years and life. The colonial-era offence of seditious publication comes with a maximum penalty of two years. Lai will be sentenced alongside eight co-defendants, including six Apple Daily executives, all of whom pleaded guilty. Apple Daily was forced to close in 2021 following police raids. Lai did not submit a letter during sentencing arguments asking the court for leniency, according to local media. His defence lawyer Robert Pang told the court a lengthy jail term would be harsher for someone of Lais age and physical condition. Every day (Lai) spends in prison will bring him that much closer to the end of his life, Pang said at the time. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Prosecutors cited in response a prison medical report that said Lais general health condition remains stable, and that he had no complaints after being treated for problems with his heart, teeth and nails. Lai was kept in solitary confinement at his own request to avoid harassment, prosecutors said. Two of his children have raised concerns over his health in recent months, but authorities said Lai has received adequate and comprehensive care. As of the start of the month, Hong Kong has arrested a total of 386 people for various national security crimes, with 176 of them being convicted. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.) PM Modi congratulates Japans Sanae Takaichi on her sweeping election win, saying the IndiaJapan Special Strategic and Global Partnership will play a key role in peace, stability and prosperity Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Japans Sanae Takaichi on her commanding victory in Japans elections to the House of Representatives, saying he expects the bilateral partnership between India and Japan to reach greater heights. In his message on X, Modi wrote about the importance of the IndiaJapan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, calling it a cornerstone for peace, stability and prosperity. Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing global peace, stability and prosperity, he wrote, adding that under Takaichis leadership he is confident the friendship between the two nations will continue to deepen. I am confident that under your able leadership, we will continue to take the India-Japan friendship to greater heights. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives! Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 8, 2026 Takaichi secured a strong mandate in the snap elections, consolidating her position just months after becoming Japans first female prime minister. Her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partners are set to win a commanding two-thirds majority in the lower house of parliament, giving her government a decisive edge to advance its agenda. But why did Japans PM conduct snap elections? Takaichi called the snap election primarily to secure a direct public mandate after becoming Japans first female Prime Minister just four months earlier. Having inherited a minority government following the resignation of Shigeru Ishiba, Takaichi argued that the sovereign people should decide if she was fit for the role. By dissolving the House of Representatives early, she sought to capitalise on her high personal popularity to stabilise her administration and move past the corruption scandals that had plagued the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) under previous leadership. Beyond personal legitimacy, the election was a strategic move to solidify a new and more right-leaning governing coalition with the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin). This partnership replaced the LDPs long-standing, decades-old alliance with the Buddhist-backed Komeito party, which had collapsed in late 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Finally, Takaichi required a supermajority to push through her ambitious and often controversial Iron Lady policy agenda. This includes Sanaenomicsa fiscal strategy featuring a high-profile two-year suspension of the 8% consumption tax on foodand a significant expansion of Japans military capabilities. With Seychelles President Patrick Herminies visit, India is looking to advance its Vision Mahasagar, a strategic evolution from the Indian Ocean-focused Vision Sagar, first floated in 2015, to a global maritime framework with particular emphasis on the Global South. Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar meets Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on February 9, 2026, during a state visit to India. (Photo: X/S Jaishankar) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during his state visit to India. Herminies visit has come at a time when India has sought to advance its Vision Mahasagar, a strategic evolution from the Indian Ocean-focused Vision Sagar, which was first floated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, to a global maritime framework with particular emphasis on the Global South. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing Vision Mahasagar for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM Narendra Modi later today will open new vistas for our cooperation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Previously, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had called Seychelles a key maritime neighbour that was an important partner in Indias Vision Mahasagar and its commitment to the Global South. Delighted to call on President Dr. Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing #VisionMAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM pic.twitter.com/wgPBKiJOHI Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 9, 2026 Herminie arrived in Delhi after engagements in Chennai and Mumbai where he held multi-sectoral engagements. In Chennai and Mumbai, Hermini met key stakeholders in the fields of governance, industry, coastal management, and health sector, the MEA said in a statement. In Chennai, Herminie, along with his health minister, Marvin Nolan Fanny, met Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in Seychelles through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion, according to ANI. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Mumbai, Herminie met ports and shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development, as per the news agency. Indias engagement with Seychelles is guided by the Mahasagar Vision which emphasises economic cooperation, sustainability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region, Sonowal said at the roundtable, according to PTI. Sonowal noted that PM Modis emphasis on neighbourhood-first engagement, ocean-based cooperation, and inclusive growth has provided clear strategic direction to Indias engagement with island nations of the Indian Ocean, including Seychelles. Sonowal said India and Seychelles share a common vision of the Indian Ocean as a region of peace, stability and shared prosperity, and added that Indias experience in port-led development, logistics, maritime services and renewable energy can complement Seychelles development priorities while Mumbais financial and fintech ecosystem can support innovation and financial inclusion initiatives. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For the first time since 1989, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei skipped the February 8 meeting with air force commanders, breaking a 37-year tradition as tensions rise with US Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has broken a long-standing tradition by missing the annual February 8 meeting with air force commanders, a ritual he has attended every year since assuming power in 1989. The rare absence comes as tensions between Iran and the United States reach fresh highs. The annual gathering symbolises loyalty to the Islamic Republic and has been a fixture in Irans military calendar for nearly four decades. But on Sunday, the armed forces chief of staff, Abdolrahim Mousavi, met senior air force officers in Khameneis place. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A symbolic omission amid tensions Khameneis absence comes as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high, with fears of a potential US military strike looming over the Islamic Republic. Irans leader has repeatedly warned that any US attack would spark a broader conflict across the Middle East, saying If the US initiates a war this time, it would spill over across the entire region. For decades, Khamenei has steered Iran through multiple regional confrontations and proxy wars, cementing his position as the countrys ultimate authority. Yet his decision to miss such a ceremonial but politically charged event has caused chatter. Analysts suggest the choice to send a deputy instead of Khamenei could be a deliberate message to both domestic constituencies and foreign powers that Irans leadership is prioritising strategic caution over ritual displays of strength. It may also signal internal debate within Irans power structure about how best to respond to pressure from the US, including through diplomatic channels and military deterrence. Iran recently held nuclear talks with the United States in Oman, which Iranian diplomats called a good start despite sharp differences over Tehrans missile programme and regional policies. However, Iran has also asserted that no one can prevent it from continuing nuclear enrichment. Jeffrey Epsteins convicted accomplice refused to answer questions from the House Oversight Committee, citing her Fifth Amendment rights, while her attorney said she would speak fully if pardoned by President Trump Jeffrey Epsteins accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, declined to answer questions from a congressional panel on Monday but said she would be willing to speak if granted clemency by President Donald Trump. Maxwell, 64, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking, had been subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee to discuss her ties to Epstein. Instead of responding, the former British socialite refused to answer the committees questions, citing her legal right to avoid self-incrimination. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As expected, Ghislaine Maxwell took the Fifth and refused to answer any questions, AFP quoted committee chairman James Comer as saying. This is obviously very disappointing. We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed as well as questions about potential co-conspirators, he said. Maxwells attorney, David Markus, said she would be willing to speak publicly if granted clemency by President Trump. If this Committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path, AFP quoted Markus as saying in a statement. Ms Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump, Markus added. Markus added that Trump and former president Bill Clinton both of whom had been friendly with Epstein are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation, he said. Maxwell is the only person convicted in connection with Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. She was convicted in 2021 of supplying underage girls to Epstein, who had ties to prominent business figures, politicians, celebrities, and academics. She had been subpoenaed to testify virtually from the Texas prison where she is serving her 20-year sentence. Her deposition comes amid the recent release by the Justice Department of millions of documents, photographs, and videos related to the Epstein investigation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While the department has said no new prosecutions are expected, several political and business leaders have faced scrutiny or resigned after their connections to Epstein were revealed in the files. Watch the video here: EXCLUSIVE: Watch the moment Ghislaine Maxwell pleads the Fifth during her deposition. She was asked if she was a close friend of Epstein, if she helped him traffic girls, and if she instructed girls to provide sexual favors, among other questions. Total silence. pic.twitter.com/6yYAyqlw7y Oversight Committee (@GOPoversight) February 9, 2026 Unrepentant Democratic lawmaker Suhas Subramanyam, who attended the closed-door deposition by Maxwell, said she was unrepentant. She was very robotic, and you know, she was not at all remorseful about pleading the Fifth today, Subramanyam said. This is all strategy for her to try to get a pardon from President Trump. The House Oversight Committee has also summoned Clinton and his wife, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, to testify about their interactions with Epstein. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Clintons have called for their depositions to be held publicly to prevent Republicans from politicizing their testimony. Trump was once a close friend of Epstein but has not been called to testify by the House Oversight Committee, which is led by members of his Republican Party. Trump fought for months to prevent release of the vast trove of documents about Epstein but a rebellion among Republicans forced him to sign off on a law mandating release of all the records. The extraordinary move reflected intense political pressure to address what many Americans, including Trumps own supporters, have long suspected to be a cover-up to protect rich and powerful men in Epsteins orbit. With inputs from agencies After meeting Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a special economic package of $175 million to support projects related to social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House, New Delhi, on February 9, 2026. (Photo: PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced a $175 million special economic package for Seychelles. Modi made the announcement after holding talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, who is on a three-day state visit to India. Development cooperation has been the strong foundation of India-Seychelles relationship. Our efforts have been based on priorities and requirements of Seychelles. In this direction, we are announcing a $175 million special economic package today, said Modi in Hindi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The special economic package will support projects related to social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security, Modi said. Herminie is on a three-day state visit to India. He arrived in Delhi after multi-sectoral engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. Herminies visit has come at a time when India has sought to advance its Vision Mahasagar, a strategic evolution from the Indian Ocean-focused Vision Sagar, which was first floated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, to a global maritime framework with particular emphasis on the Global South. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Herminie and said that India values his support as a maritime neighbour towards advancing Vision Mahasagar for economic prosperity and security in the region. Addressing the joint press meet with President Dr. Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles. https://t.co/gKZQcH960T Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2026 Herminie is on a three-day state visit to India. He arrived in Delhi after multi-sectoral engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. In Chennai and Mumbai, Hermini met key stakeholders in the fields of governance, industry, coastal management, and health sector, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) MEA said in an earlier statement. ALSO READ 'Seychelles an inalienable partner in Indias maritime mission Vision Mahasagar': PM Modi STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Chennai, Herminie and his health minister, Marvin Nolan Fanny, met Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in Seychelles through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion, according to ANI. In Mumbai, Herminie met Union ports and shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development, as per the news agency. Indias engagement with Seychelles is guided by the Mahasagar Vision which emphasises economic cooperation, sustainability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region, Sonowal said at the roundtable, according to PTI. Israels President Isaac Herzog honoured victims of the Bondi Beach shooting during a visit marked by grief, protests and calls for unity. Israeli President Isaac Herzog (L) speaks after laying a wreath for victims of the December 14, 2025 gun attack at the Bondi Pavilion, in Sydney, on February 9, 2026. (AFP) Israels President Isaac Herzog visited Sydney on Monday to honour the 15 people killed when gunmen opened fire during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14. The president laid a wreath outside the Bondi Pavilion in heavy rain during a sombre service attended by members of the Australian Jewish community. He said people of all faiths would overcome this evil and that the bonds between good people of all faiths and all nations will continue to hold strong in the face of terror, violence and hatred. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Herzog told the community that their pain was felt by all Jews, adding that he had travelled to express solidarity and offer strength. The four-day visit has been welcomed by many Jewish Australians, with Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry saying the trip would lift the spirits of a pained community. In the service, Herzog placed two stones brought from Jerusalem, honouring the youngest and oldest victims10-year-old Matilda and Holocaust survivor Alex Kletyman. We stood with Australian Jews, for we are one big family, and when one Jew is hurt, all Jews feel their pain, he said. Placing stones is a Jewish custom used to honour the dead. Rising anger over antisemitism The President addressed concerns from the Jewish community about the attack, saying their frustrations were shared by many worldwide. He said he had seen antisemitism surge in Canada, Great Britain, the United States, and Australia all English-speaking countries. He stressed that antisemitism in Australia was not a Jewish problem. It is an Australian problem and a global problem over the generations. Protests and calls for arrest His visit has drawn opposition from pro-Palestinian groups, who have planned demonstrations nationwide. Police have refused to authorise some protests in central Sydney under new powers introduced after the attack. Amnesty International Australia urged supporters to rally for an end to what it called genocide against Palestinians and called for Herzog to be investigated for alleged war crimes. Human rights lawyer Chris Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged protesters to remember the purpose of the visit. He said Herzog had come to engage with members of the Jewish community who are grieving the loss of 15 innocent lives. He added that the nation needs to look towards uniting. Critics have accused the government of moving too slowly to protect Jewish Australians amid a rise in antisemitic incidents since 2023. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi met Seychelles President Herminie in New Delhi on Monday and welcomed Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, with maritime security and defence cooperation high on the agenda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he met Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave, saying defence and maritime cooperation were key pillars of the bilateral relationship, as he met Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie in New Delhi. The two leaders discussed key issues, including maritime security, economic ties, and regional cooperation. They held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House before addressing a joint press meet in the national capital. Seychelles joins Colombo Security Conclave Prime Minister Modi said the move would strengthen efforts towards peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and further deepen ties between the two countries. As maritime neighbours, the blue economy is a natural area of cooperation, PM Modi said, adding that India would share its expertise with Seychelles in marine research, capacity building, and data sharing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Focus on renewable energy and climate solutions PM Modi said India and Seychelles would expand cooperation in renewable energy, resilience, and climate-adaptive solutions. He also underlined that Seychelles is an integral part of Indias Vision MAHASAGAR, with cooperation spanning land, water, and sea. MoUs signed, joint vision announced The Prime Minister welcomed the signing of several memorandums of understanding and documents aimed at deepening cooperation between the two countries. He announced that the IndiaSeychelles Joint Vision would be launched as a roadmap for future engagement. He said India would share its experience in digital transformation with Seychelles and work together to ensure the supply of affordable and quality medicines, promote medical tourism, and strengthen health infrastructure. USD 175 million special economic package announced PM Modi announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. He said the package would create new employment and skill-training opportunities, especially for the youth of Seychelles. People-to-people ties and 50 years of relations PM Modi said the visit came at a significant moment, with India and Seychelles marking 50 years of diplomatic relations. He highlighted the strong people-to-people ties and the contribution of the Indian community to Seychelles social and economic life. India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust, and a shared vision for the future, he said. Agreements exchanged, Rajghat visit India and Seychelles exchanged several agreements and MoUs covering areas such as pharmacopoeial cooperation, cultural exchange programmes from 2026 to 2030, digital public infrastructure, and food procurement. Before the joint press meet, President Herminie paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The Ministry of External Affairs said Gandhijis principles continue to guide and inspire the IndiaSeychelles partnership. President Herminie arrived in Delhi on Sunday after engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. This is his first visit to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. PM Modi met Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie in New Delhi on Monday to discuss key issues, including maritime security, economic ties, and regional cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House in New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday during the latters state visit to India. The discussions with PM Modi are expected to focus on bilateral relations, economic development, maritime security, and regional and international issues of mutual interest. President Herminie arrived in Delhi on Sunday after engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. His visit, which will continue until February 10, is his first to India since taking office in October 2025 and coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Jaishankar meets Seychelles President External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Herminie earlier in the day and acknowledged his support for Indias Vision MAHASAGAR. In a post on X, Jaishankar expressed confidence that Herminies meeting with Prime Minister Modi would open new avenues for cooperation between New Delhi and Victoria. Seychelles, a key maritime partner The Ministry of External Affairs described Seychelles as a key maritime neighbour and an important partner in Indias Vision MAHASAGAR and its engagement with the Global South. During his visit to Chennai, President Herminie, along with Seychelles Health Minister Marvin Nolan Fanny, met SIMS Hospital Chairman Ravi Pachamuthu. They discussed ways to strengthen healthcare services in Seychelles, including medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion. In Mumbai, Herminie met Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and participated in the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable. Discussions focused on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development. During his stay in Delhi, President Herminie is also expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu. PM Modi spoke with Mauritian Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam on Monday, reaffirming their commitment to deepen the special and people-centric partnership between India and Mauritius, with a focus on cooperation and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. In this image received on Sept. 11, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam during a bilateral meeting, in Varanasi. PMO Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a telephone conversation with his Mauritian counterpart, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, during which the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the special, historic and people-centric ties between India and Mauritius. Focus on cooperation and Indian Ocean stability In a post on X, Modi said the two sides reviewed progress in wide-ranging bilateral cooperation since their meeting in Varanasi last year. He added that India and Mauritius would continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. Modi also said he looked forward to welcoming Ramgoolam to India for the AI Impact Summit next week. Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year. Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Outcomes of Ramgoolams India visit The two leaders last met during Ramgoolams visit to India in September, when they agreed to deepen cooperation in areas including infrastructure, healthcare, digital technology, energy and maritime security. Several memoranda of understanding were signed during the visit. In March last year, Modi presented Overseas Citizen of India cards to Ramgoolam and his spouse, Veena Ramgoolam. Around the same time, during President Droupadi Murmus state visit to Mauritius, India extended OCI eligibility to Mauritian nationals of Indian origin traceable up to the seventh generation, a step aimed at strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora. Newly elected Portugal's President socialist Antonio Jose Seguro celebrates with supporters after the results of the second-round vote Lisbon on February 8, 2026. (AFP) Moderate socialist Antonio Jose Seguro has secured a decisive victory in Portugals presidential runoff, winning a five-year term after defeating far-right challenger Andre Ventura, according to exit polls and partial results released on Sunday. Despite days of severe storms and flooding, voter turnout remained broadly in line with the first round held on January 18. Voting had to be postponed by a week in three municipal councils in southern and central Portugal due to floods, but the disruption is unlikely to affect the final outcome. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The response the Portuguese people gave today, their commitment to freedom, democracy, and the future of our country, leaves me naturally moved and proud of our nation, Seguro, 63, told reporters. Landslide margin With nearly 70% of ballots counted, Seguro was leading with 64% of the vote, while Ventura trailed at 36%. Two exit polls projected an even wider margin, placing Seguro between 67% and 73%. The delayed vote affected around 37,000 registered votersroughly 0.3% of the electorate. Votes from major cities such as Lisbon and Porto were among those counted later. Venturas result, while a defeat, still marks a significant improvement over the 22.8% won by his anti-immigration Chega party in last years general election. Chega has since emerged as Portugals second-largest parliamentary force, reflecting the growing appeal of the far right. The entire political system, across both right and left, united against me, Ventura said after attending a Catholic mass in Lisbon. Even so I believe the leadership of the right has been defined and secured today. I expect to lead that political space from this day forward, he added. A ceremonial but influential role Portugals presidency is largely ceremonial but carries key powers, including vetoing legislation and dissolving parliament. Ventura had pledged a more interventionist presidency, while Seguro has positioned himself as a stabilising figure. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Casting himself as the face of a modern and moderate left, Seguro has pledged cooperation with the centre-right minority government and received backing from conservatives wary of Venturas populist rhetoric. Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure from Labour MPs after his top aide resigned over the Mandelson scandal, as anger grows over the PMs judgment and calls for accountability intensify Keir Starmer has been accompanied by several senior members of his Cabinet as well as business executives. Reuters Sir Keir Starmer is bracing for a difficult week as he confronts mounting unrest within Labour ranks following the resignation of his chief of staff over the Lord Peter Mandelson scandal. The Prime Minister is expected to face angry MPs on Monday, when he addresses a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP), amid growing questions about his leadership and judgment, the Independent reported. The turmoil comes after Morgan McSweeney stepped down, taking full responsibility for advising Starmer to appoint Lord Mandelson as the UKs ambassador to the United States, despite awareness that the peers links with Jeffrey Epstein continued after the financiers conviction for child sex offences. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While McSweeney has fallen on his sword, scrutiny of Starmer himself is intensifying. Critics within Labour point out that the final decision rested with the Prime Minister, and many MPs believe accountability cannot stop with his former aide. More from World 'India-Japan friendship to reach greater heights': PM Modi congratulates Takaichi for landslide win in snap election The controversy is set to deepen further as the government prepares to release tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents linked to Mandelsons appointment, a process expected to drag on for months. Starmer reportedly believes the material will show that Mandelson misled officials about the extent of his ties to Epstein. The Guardian has reported that the Cabinet Office warned of the grave reputational risk associated with handing Mandelson the Washington post. Fallout inside Labour Starmer and McSweeney are understood to have mutually agreed it was the right time for the chief of staff to step aside. In a statement, the Prime Minister praised his longtime advisers dedication, loyalty and leadership, crediting him for Labours 2024 election victory and saying he owed him a debt of gratitudewithout directly mentioning the Mandelson affair. McSweeneys deputies, Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson, have been appointed joint acting chiefs of staff. But discontent is spreading. Labour MP Rachael Maskell said McSweeneys departure was a start and warned: If he hasnt understood the seriousness of the situation, then I think he will find it very difficult to continue. Left-wing MPs including Brian Leishman, Ian Byrne and Kim Johnson have gone further, suggesting Starmer should consider resigning. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Leadership under siege? Union leaders have also piled on the pressure. Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright said Starmer should step down, while Maryam Eslamdoust warned: Theres no case for waiting until May Its time to elect a new leader. Others have urged restraint. Starmer ally John Slinger said the last thing the country needs is leadership speculations, while Lord Blunkett cautioned against a party acting like ferrets in a sack. Sweden will tighten citizenship rules with applicants facing a longer, eight-year wait before they can apply, a minimum wage threshold and a test of their understanding of Swedish society, the centre-right government said on Monday. Sweden is set to tighten its citizenship rules with applicants facing a tighter and longer, eight-year wait, wait before they can apply, a minimum wage threshold and a test of their understanding of Swedish society, the centre-right government said on Monday. Successive governments have tightened the similar immigration policies since 2015, when at least around 160,000 asylum seekers sought refuge in the regime. The minority government is betting that a more restrictive line on immigration will prove to be popular with voters in the coming parliamentary elections in September. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These requirements are much tougher than the situation as it is today because currently there are basically no requirements (to become a citizen), Migration Minister Johan Forssell told News agency Reuters. The government indicated that the applicants for Swedish citizenship would have to live in the country for eight years, up from five, have a monthly income of more than 20,000 Swedish crowns ($2,225), and be able to pass a language and culture test. It seems reasonable that you should know whether Sweden is a monarchy or a republic, if you want to be a citizen, Forssell said. Anyone with a criminal record, either in Sweden or abroad will have to wait longer before they can apply. Someone who had served in prison for 15 years in Sweden, would have to wait 15 years before being able to apply for citizenship. The anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, who back the minority coalition government, have blamed decades of what they say are failed immigration policies for a wave of gangland crime that has swept the country. The new rules are expected to come into force on June 6. Last week the government said it will tighten its rules for asylum seekers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD (With inputs from agencies) China warned Japan of a resolute response after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis election victory reignited tensions over her comments on Taiwan A spokesman for China's foreign ministry on Monday urged Japan to retract the comments. (Reuters) Chinas foreign ministry said on Monday that its policy towards Japan would not be altered by the outcome of one particular election. The comment followed a sweeping election victory by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis coalition, which campaigned on tax cuts and increased military spending. Takaichi triggered a diplomatic dispute in November when she said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could amount to a survival-threatening situation for Japan and potentially justify a military response. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, while the islands government rejects that claim. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD At a press briefing on Monday, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged Japans Prime Minister to withdraw the remarks. Beijing delivers stern warning after election victory Beijing warned Tokyo that any reckless action would draw a resolute response, following Takaichis landslide win. If the far-right forces in Japan misjudge the situation and act recklessly, they will inevitably face resistance from the Japanese people and a resolute response from the international community, Lin said. We once again urge the Japanese side to retract the erroneous remarks made by Takaichi regarding Taiwan and demonstrate basic sincerity in safeguarding the political foundation of China-Japan relations, through concrete actions, he added. Worsening ties After Takaichis comments in November, China discouraged its nationals from travelling to Japan, citing declining public security and reports of criminal acts against Chinese nationals. Tensions escalated further in December when Chinese military aircraft locked radar onto Japanese jets, prompting Tokyo to summon Beijings ambassador. Beijing also reportedly restricted exports of rare-earth materials to Japan, products vital for industries ranging from electric vehicles to missile systems. Last month, two pandas left Tokyo for China, leaving Japan without the animals for the first time in 50 yearsa symbolic moment in strained bilateral relations. Trump says Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit the White House toward the end of the year, hinting at a possible thaw as Washington and Beijing seek to steady ties after trade tensions US President Donald Trump (L) and China's President Xi Jinping greet each other as they arrive for talks at the Gimhae Air Base, located next to the Gimhae International Airport in Busan on October 30, 2025. (AFP) US President Donald Trump has announced that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit the White House later this year, hinting at a potential reset in relations between the worlds two largest economies. Trump shared the update during an NBC News interview taped on Wednesday, the same day he held a wide-ranging call with Xi covering trade, Taiwan, Russias war in Ukraine, and Iran. Hes coming to the White House, yeah toward the end of the year, Trump said. These are the two most powerful countries in the world and we have a very good relationship. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US president is expected to visit China in April, paving the way for Xis trip to Washington. Trade tensions and economic ties Since returning to the White House a year ago, Trump has leaned heavily on tariffs, introducing levies on steel, automobiles, and other goods while pursuing broader policy goals. Relations have been tense at times, but a broad truce with China emerged last spring following a major trade escalation. Despite US efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing, both nations remain deeply interconnected economically. Taiwan and bilateral talks During Wednesdays discussion, Xi cautioned Trump about arms sales to Taiwan, which China regards as part of its territory. He also expressed hope that ongoing issues, including trade, could be resolved peacefully. By tackling issues one by one and continuously building mutual trust, we can forge a right way for the two countries to get along, Xi said, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Trump described the conversation as excellent and added, we both realise how important it is to keep it that way. Meanwhile, the US on Friday called for three-way talks with Russia and China to set new nuclear limits. Beijing, however, has declined to join disarmament negotiations at this stage. Starmers director of communications Tim Allan resigned on Monday, a day after Starmers top aide Morgan McSweeney quit over his role in backing Peter Mandelson over his known links to Jeffrey Epstein British Prime Minister Keir Starmers Director of Communications Tim Allan resigned on Monday, a day after the prime ministers top aide Morgan McSweeney stepped down over his role in backing Peter Mandelson despite his known links to Jeffrey Epstein. The departure of two senior aides in quick succession comes as Starmer seeks to draw a line under a crisis engulfing his government following the appointment of Mandelson as Britains ambassador to the United States. I have decided to stand down to allow a new No10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success, Reuters quoted Allan as saying in a statement on Monday. Allan served as an adviser to former prime minister Tony Blair from 1992 to 1998, before founding and leading one of Britains foremost public affairs consultancies in 2001. He was appointed executive director of communications at Downing Street in September 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Starmer has moved to shore up support within his party amid growing unease over the fallout, with senior Labour figures urging MPs to halt speculation about his leadership. Jacqui Smith, a Labour veteran who served in the governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, said it was a good idea for McSweeney to resign but warned against efforts to push Starmer out of office. With inputs from agencies British police are examining fresh allegations that Prince Andrew shared confidential trade documents with Jeffrey Epstein, as new material released by US investigators renews scrutiny of the late financiers ties with powerful figures and prompts concern within the royal family. British police said they are examining allegations that Prince Andrew shared confidential trade reports with Jeffrey Epstein, as Prince Williams office said he was deeply concerned about fresh revelations from a US investigation into the late sex offender. Thames Valley Police, which covers areas west of London including Windsor, where Andrew once lived, said it began assessing the matter after media reports highlighted emails suggesting the then prince sent Epstein reports from a 2010 tour of Southeast Asia. At the time, Andrew was serving as Britains special envoy for international trade. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Complaint and official response An anti-monarchy campaigner said he had reported Andrew for suspected misconduct in public office and possible breaches of the Official Secrets Act. The emails were among more than 3 million pages of documents released last month by the US Justice Department. We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures, Thames Valley Police said in a statement. Royals seek to distance themselves King Charles III last year stripped his 65-year-old brother of his royal titles following earlier disclosures about his links to Epstein. Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. The royal family continued efforts to distance itself from the scandal on Monday, as Prince William and Princess Catherine issued their first statement on the US document release. The files detail how Epstein cultivated relationships with wealthy and influential figures and suggest that Andrews association with him continued even after Epsteins 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor. More from World Emails suggest King Charles' brother Andrew shared UK trade papers with Epstein Focus on victims amid public scrutiny A spokesperson said the Prince and Princess of Wales were deeply concerned by the continued revelations and that their focus remained on the victims. The statement was issued as William travelled to Saudi Arabia for an official visit. The sensitivity surrounding the issue was visible during King Charless visit to Lancashire, where one person in the crowd shouted, How long have you known about Andrew? Emails uncovered in recent days appear to show that Andrew sent Epstein copies of his reports from the 2010 Southeast Asia trip shortly after returning to Britain. Earlier correspondence also suggests he shared his itinerary for visits to Hanoi, Saigon, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong with Epstein. The US military said it intercepted and boarded the Aquila II in the Indian Ocean after tracking it from the Caribbean, accusing the vessel of defying Washingtons blockade on sanctioned Venezuelalinked tankers Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth speaks to senior military leaders at Marine Corps Base Quantico, in Quantico, Va. AP File US military forces boarded a crude oil tanker in the Indian Ocean after tracking it from the Caribbean, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Monday, accusing the vessel of violating Washingtons blockade on sanctioned ships linked to Venezuela Overnight, US military forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding on the Aquila II without incident in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility, Hegseth wrote in a post on X. When the @DeptofWar says quarantine, we mean it. Nothing will stop DoW from defending our Homeland even in oceans halfway around the world. Overnight, U.S. military forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding on the Aquila II without incident in the pic.twitter.com/kYVAQC5io9 Department of War (@DeptofWar) February 9, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Aquila II was operating in defiance of President Trumps established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean. It ran, and we followed. The Department of War tracked and hunted this vessel from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, he added. He said no other nation on planet Earth has the capability to enforce its will through any domain. By land, air, or sea, our Armed Forces will find you and deliver justice. You will run out of fuel long before you will outrun us. The Department of War will deny illicit actors and their proxies the ability to defy American power in the global maritime domain, he said. In a separate statement, Pentagon on Monday said US forces boarded and seized an oil tanker in the Indian Ocean that violated President Trumps blockade of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean and fled the region. US forces seized the ship, AFP quoted the Pentagon as saying, after announcing on X that the Aquila II was boarded without incident following a chase that led from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a military raid last month in Caracas, the US has escalated its blockade on vessels that are under sanctions and going to and from the South American country, a member of the OPEC oil producers group. The Suezmax tanker Aquila II left Venezuelan waters in early January as part of a flotilla of vessels carrying heavy crude for China, according to schedules from state oil company PDVSA. The ship was loaded with roughly 700,000 barrels of Venezuelan heavy crude bound for Chinese refineries. Most of the tankers in that flotilla have since either returned to Venezuela or been intercepted and seized by US forces as part of enforcement actions against vessels linked to sanctioned Venezuelan oil exports. It remained unclear where the Aquila II was officially registered, according to shipping databases. With inputs from agencies A container ship carrying about 290 containers sunk off the coast of Thailand, on Saturday afternoon. All 16 crewmen were rescued safely and brought ashore at Chalong Bay. A Chattogram port-bound container capsized off the coast of Thailand on Saturday afternoon. The ship was carrying about 290 containers en route from Malaysia to Bangladesh. All 16 crewmen were rescued safely and brought ashore at Chalong Bay, reported The Phuket News today. A Panamaflagged vessel, Sealloyd Arc, encountered trouble off Phukets southern coast on February 7, prompting a coordinated emergency maritime response. A container ship carrying 290 containers has sunk off the coast of Phuket, leaving an oil slick Provincial authorities report that 14 containers hold hazardous substances, with part of the cargo still afloat near the wreck site. All 16 crew members were rescued. pic.twitter.com/hxngmdSRpV Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) February 9, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Manager of the ships local agent Alvi Lines Bangladesh, Md Mukul Hossain confirmed the incident. He said that the ship faced an incident while coming from Malaysia. The vessel tilted and sank in deep water off the coast of Phuket and the captain declared the ship abandoned. The vessel left Port Klang on February 5 and was expected to arrive at Chattogram on February 12, he informed. According to The Phuket News, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai MECC3) reported that the vessel began taking on significant amounts of water while sailing south of Laem Phromthep, about three nautical miles offshore. The inflow caused the ship to lean heavily and risk sinking. According to Thai MECC3, it reported that an unidentified fishing boat was found nearby which was rescued by eight crew members from the vessel and then a vessel of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation rescued the other eight crewmen. All the crewmen were safely transported to the shore at Chalong Bay Pier and authorities confirmed that no crew members were hurt. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Japans newly re-elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has signalled a tougher security posture, vowing to firmly defend the countrys sovereignty as her government moves to strengthen defence and intelligence capabilities after a landslide election victory. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday said Japan would take a firm stand in defending its sovereignty, including its territorial waters and airspace, as she outlined plans to strengthen the countrys defence and intelligence capabilities following her landslide election victory. Speaking at a post-election news conference, Takaichi said Japan must show the resolve to defend itself. No one will come to the aid of a nation that lacks the resolve to defend itself with its own hands. We will steadfastly protect our nations peace and independence, our territory, territorial waters, airspace, and the lives and safety of our citizens, she said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Intelligence overhaul and security reforms Takaichi announced steps to bolster Japans intelligence framework, including plans to establish a national intelligence bureau and strengthen intelligence analysis capabilities to prevent crises and protect national interests. She also said her government would introduce legislation to create a committee to assess national security risks arising from foreign investments and revise key security policy documents to reflect the changing security environment. Takaichi said the election result showed strong public backing for major reforms. Her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won around 316 seats in the 465-member lower house in Sundays snap election, securing a two-thirds majority for the first time in the partys history. The outcome significantly strengthens her mandate less than a year after she took office in October. This is the start of a heavy responsibility to make Japan stronger and more prosperous, she said, adding that voters had shown understanding and sympathy for her call for a major policy shift. China tensions loom large Takaichis remarks are expected to further strain relations with China, particularly after comments she made in November suggesting Japan could intervene militarily if Beijing attempted to take Taiwan by force. China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has warned that any reckless actions by Japan would be met with a resolute response. Takaichi said Japan would continue dialogue with China but would respond in a calm and appropriate manner. Reform push and constitutional questions The election result places Takaichi, Japans first woman prime minister, in a strong position to push through reforms over the next four years, including on defence, intelligence and immigration. It also raises the prospect of renewed attempts to revise Japans constitution. US ties and economic challenges US President Donald Trump congratulated Takaichi on her victory and said he looked forward to meeting her in Washington next month. Takaichi said the talks would reaffirm the unshakeable unity between Japan and the United States. Despite her strong start and popularity, especially among younger voters, analysts say she faces major economic challenges, including rising prices, high public debt, and concerns over the impact of increased defence spending on taxes, markets and household finances. Bangladeshi women carried flaming torches through the streets of Dhaka on Monday, marching to demand justice and political representation ahead of general elections in Bangladesh. Women carry torches during Shekol Vangar Podojatra (Walk to Break the Chains), a midnight procession held to demand justice and political representation in Bangladesh's upcoming general elections in Dhaka on February 9, 2026. Image Credit: AFP Bangladeshi women took to streets of Dhaka on Monday, to demand justice and political representation in the coming elections on February 12. The women carried flaming torches, to raise concern about the growing injustice against the women and being excluded from the political arena. Women candidates make up fewer than four per cent of the election hopefuls, while 30 of the parties contesting this weeks race put forward male-only tickets. No representation of women A Supreme Court lawyer and protester Priya Ahsan Chowdhury said, Whatever regime is in place, repression of women appears in many different forms. She joined around 100 women chanting slogans and singing in front of parliament. In some places, we havent seen any representation of women at all only men. That is what drove us to come out and speak up, she added as quoted by AFP. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The march began at the midnight of Sunday and ended in the early hours of Monday, came as a backdrop of rising incendiary rhetoric targeting women at public rallies and criticising them by not allowing to participate in the political activities and pushing them out of public life. Being erased from public sphere The February 12 vote will be the first election since the overthrow of the autocratic government of ousted PM Sheikh Hasina. Head of the Tech Global Institute think tank and protester, Sabhanaz Rashid Diya said, The aspiration of the mass uprising was to build a country based on justice and equality but women are slowly being erased from the public sphere. And now, when we are once again dreaming of building a new country, political parties where women once played key roles have largely sidelined them in the electoral race, she added. Earlier led by women Bangladesh was earlier led by powerful women leaders, including Hasina and late three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Zia died in December after leading the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for four decades and serving three terms as premier. I used to be proud that even though my country is not the most liberal, we still had two women figureheads at the top, first-time voter Ariana Rahman, 20. told AFP. The members of Bangladeshs largest Islamist political party, Jamaat-e-Islami have suggested that society is not ready for women in politics and the party has not fielded any women candidate this time. Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison Xinhua) 13:26, February 09, 2026 HONG KONG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Monday morning sentenced Jimmy Lai, an instigator of anti-China riots in Hong Kong, to 20 years in prison. Lai was found guilty in December by the High Court of the HKSAR on two charges of conspiring to collude with external forces and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. Mitigation hearing for Lai's case began on Jan. 12 and concluded on Jan. 13. The defendants in the national security case include Lai, Apple Daily Limited, Apple Daily Printing Limited, and Apple Daily Internet Limited, all facing charges of conspiracy to publish seditious materials and conspiracy to collude with external forces. Lai was also facing a separate charge of conspiring to collude with external forces. The trial officially commenced on Dec. 18, 2023, and has been presided over by three judges appointed under the national security law in Hong Kong. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, seen in 2020, has already been jailed for over five years as his trial progressed Russian Authorities Say Third Person Held Over Attack On Top Military Intelligence Officer By RFE/RL February 08, 2026 Russian authorities said they detained a third person in connection with the shooting of a top military intelligence general in a Moscow apartment building. The Federal Security Service said in a statement on February 8 that the person -- a Russian citizen -- was detained in Dubai, and flown to Moscow. The agency, known as the FSB, said it had identified two other Russian citizens in the shooting: one had been detained in Moscow; the other allegedly traveled to Ukraine. Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev -- the No. 2 officer at the military intelligence agency widely known as the GRU -- was reportedly shot three times in the stairwell of his Moscow apartment building on February 6. Officials say he fended off the attacker. He later underwent emergency surgery for a gunshot wound to a vital organ. Officials said he was expected to recover. The FSB also released surveillance video it said showed the shooter; earlier reports said the person may have entered the building and attacked Alekseyev posing as a food delivery courier. Alekseyev is at least the fourth general to have been attacked, or killed, since the start of the all-out Russian invasion nearly four years ago. Investigators have released few details as to the nature of the shooting plot. Officials have blamed Ukraine for past attacks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov pointedly blamed Kyiv for the Alekseyev shooting, without providing evidence. As the GRU's deputy commander, Alekseyev has overseen -- or been implicated in -- multiple, often audacious sabotage or assassination operations around the world. Among other things, he's been accused of involvement in the near-fatal 2018 Novichok poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal in Britain, and the cyberhack of US political parties two years earlier. He's also been linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg restaurateur who co-founded Russia's most notorious mercenary company, Wagner Group. Prigozhin died in a plane crash in August 2023, which Western intelligence officials later concluded was an assassination. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-gru-general- shooting-investigation/33672512.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin Thanks UAE President for Assistance in Gen. Alexeyev Attack Arrest - Kremlin Sputnik News 20260208 Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation yesterday evening with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, thanking him for cooperation between the intelligence services and for the assistance in detaining the suspect involved in the terrorist attack against Lt. Gen. Vladimir Alexeyev, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. "Yesterday evening, President Putin had a phone call with UAE President Mohammed Al Nahyan. President Putin thanked his Emirati counterpart for effective cooperation through special services channels and for the UAE's assistance in detaining a suspect involved in the terrorist attack on Gen. [Vladimir] Alexeyev. The heads of state also continued discussing topics that were on the agenda during Nahyan's recent visit to Moscow," he said. On Sunday, the Investigative Committee identified the perpetrator as Lyubomir Korba, a Russian citizen and a native of the Ternopol Region of what used to be the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. He arrived in Moscow in late December on a mission from Ukrainian special services to commit a terrorist attack. Russian citizens Viktor Vasin and Zinaida Serebritskaya were identified as his accomplices. The FSB said that Vasin had been detained in Moscow, while Serebritskaya had fled to Ukraine. Korba fled Russia after committing the crime. He was detained in Dubai and extradited back to Russia. The FSB published a video that showed Korba, handcuffed and blindfolded, being escorted by security agents off a plane that arrived from the UAE and placed into a vehicle. The FSB also showed footage of a pistol found in a snowdrift and of Korba, wearing mask and hoodie, boarding a bus, presumably following the crime. Russian Investigative Committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko said that a criminal case had been opened on suspicion of attempted murder, attempted murder of a military serviceman and firearms trafficking. The general was hospitalized. The shooter is believed to have fired at least three shots at Alexeyev in a residential building in Moscow on February 6 using a Makarov pistol-type gun equipped with a silencer. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Executor of Assassination Attempt on Alexeyev Arrived in Russia Under Ukrainian Intelligence Orders Sputnik News 20260208 The shooter, Lyubomir Korba, is a native of the Ternopol region in Ukraine, the Russian Investigative Committee stated. He was instructed by Ukrainian intelligence to carry out a terrorist attack against General Alexeyev. "It has been established that Korba arrived in Moscow in late December last year on a mission from Ukrainian intelligence services to carry out a terrorist attack," the Russian Investigative Committee said. Other statements: The executor of the assassination attempt on Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev fired at him at least three times Makarov pistol with a silencer was discovered at the scene of the assassination attempt Viktor Vasinin, an accomplice in the attack on Alexeyev, has been charged under two articles of the Russian Criminal Code Lyubomir Korba has been arrested by a Moscow court, according to court data obtained by Sputnik. Investigators have identified Korba as the direct perpetrator of the crime. The court has ordered his pretrial detention as the preventive measure, according to court papers. "The Russian Investigative Committee is investigating a criminal case concerning the assassination attempt on Lt. Gen. of the Russian Defense Ministry Vladimir Alexeyev for crimes under Part 3 of Article 30 and Part 1 of Article 105 of the Russian Criminal Code (attempted murder), Part 1 of Article 222 of the Russian Criminal Code (illegal arms trafficking), Article 317 of the Russian Criminal Code (attempted murder of a military serviceman)," Russian Investigative Committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko said. An accomplice in the crime, Russian citizen Viktor Vasin, was detained in Moscow and charged with attempted murder of a military serviceman and illegal arms trafficking, Petrenko told Sputnik, adding that the investigative process continues. According to data from the Russian Investigative Committee, on February 6, an unknown assailant shot at Alexeyev in a residential building in Moscow, and he was hospitalized. A criminal case has been opened under articles on attempted murder and illegal trafficking of firearms. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Executor, Accomplices In Assassination Attempt On General Alexeyev Identified Sputnik News 20260208 The Federal Security Service (FSB), in cooperation with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), has identified the accomplices involved in the assassination attempt on General Vladimir Alexeyev, the FSB Public Relations Center reported. The direct executor of the assassination attempt on General Vladimir Alexeyev has been identified as Russian citizen Lyubomir Korba, the Russian security service stated. "With the assistance of partners from the United Arab Emirates, Russian citizen Lyubomir Korba, born in 1960, who was the direct perpetrator of the crime, was arrested in Dubai and handed over to the Russian authorities," the statement said. The accomplices in the assassination attempt have been identified as Russian citizens Viktor Vasinin and Zinaida Serebritskaya. "In the framework of the criminal case opened by the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation regarding the assassination attempt on the First Deputy Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev, the accomplices of this crime have been identified: Russian citizens Vasinin Viktor, born in 1959, and Serebritskaya Zinaida, born in 1971," the statement reads. Serebritskaya has left for Ukraine, while Vasinin has been arrested in Moscow. As previously reported by the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation, an unknown assailant shot at Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev in a residential building in Moscow on February 6. He was hospitalized. A criminal case has been opened on charges of attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that the assassination attempt on Alexeyev demonstrates that Ukraine is willing to engage in constant provocations aimed at disrupting the negotiation process. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Partial reopening of the Rafah crossing (February 3, 2026) France - Ministere de l'Europe et des Affaires etrangeres France welcomes the partial reopening of the Rafah border crossing in both directions, allowing for the first medical evacuations. We also welcome the redeployment of both the EU Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) and Palestinian Authority personnel, who must be able to fully perform their duties at the crossing in accordance with the terms that were previously agreed upon. The reopening of the crossing is an important first step in the implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan. All efforts must now focus on the massive, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza through all crossing points, the rebuilding of the enclave and the re-establishment of a political horizon in order to forge a lasting peace. France calls on the parties to abide by their commitments in this regard and deplores the ceasefire violations that have taken place in Gaza in recent days, including the Israeli airstrikes on January 31, which killed numerous civilians. France, along with its partners, stands ready to help with the implementation of the peace plan's next steps and UNSC resolution 2803. We are deploying six members of the National Gendarmerie to the EUBAM mission, whose goal is to provide support for securing the border crossing and for the redeployment of the Palestinian Authority, which is tasked with overseeing operations at the Rafah crossing. We are prepare to increase our contribution through an additional deployment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The U.S. and Russian Federation agreed to reestablish high level military-to-military dialogue By U.S. European Command Public Affairs , United States European Command Feb 05, 2026 Following the productive and constructive progress towards President Trump's goal of peace in Ukraine made by Jared Kushner and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff over the past week, the U.S. and Russian Federation agreed today in Abu Dhabi to reestablish high level military-to-military dialogue. This channel of communication was suspended in the fall of 2021, just prior to the onset of the conflict. The reestablishment follows meetings in the United Arab Emirates' capital between Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, Commander of U.S. European Command, and senior Russian and Ukrainian military officials. Maintaining dialogue between militaries is an important factor in global stability and peace, which can only be achieved through strength, and provides a means for increased transparency and de-escalation. This channel will provide a consistent military-to-military contact as the parties continue to work towards a lasting peace. Gen. Grynkewich also has existing authorities in his role as NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, to maintain military-to-military dialogue with the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Federation, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, to avoid miscalculation and to provide a means for avoiding unintended escalation by either side. Gen. Grynkewich looks forward to initiating this high-level dialogue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. military, diplomatic leaders attend 2026 USEUCOM Chiefs of Mission Conference By U.S. European Command Public Affairs , United States European Command Stuttgart, Germany Feb 06, 2026 STUTTGART, Germany -- U.S. European Command hosted its annual Chiefs of Mission conference at the command's headquarters Feb. 4-6 to discuss unified support to U.S. foreign policy and national security efforts in Europe. The conference gathers leaders from across Europe to discuss and synchronize diplomatic and military efforts across the European theater. Conference attendees included senior leaders from the command's headquarters, component commands and the U.S. Department of State, including U.S. ambassadors and charges d'affaires representing U.S. interests at more than 48 European countries. Panel discussions focused on topics including conventional and hybrid threat to Europe and the U.S. homeland, the Department of War vision for burden sharing in Europe, the Euro-Atlantic defense industrial base, Eastern Flank Deterrence, and next steps for Ukraine. "EUCOM prioritizes three mission areas: protect the U.S. homeland, project U.S. combat power, and position the Alliance to deter and defend," said Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, commander of U.S. European Command. "Enabling our European Allies to take primary responsibility for defense on the continent of Europe is essential. Strong Allies who provide hard combat power is what allows the U.S. to focus on global challenges." The insights gathered during this event will be implemented alongside Allies and partners in Europe, a reflection of U.S. commitment to addressing shared security concerns. "The excellent cooperation between the Department of State and the Department of War has been instrumental in us being able to carry out our duties," said Kimberly Guilfoyle, U.S. Ambassador to Greece. "Our work here in Europe, from advancing energy security to strengthening our defense partnerships, ensures American strength as we face challenges from Russia to China and beyond." About USEUCOM U.S. European Command is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. USEUCOM is comprised of more than 65,000 permanent military personnel supported by rotational forces and DoD civilians working closely with NATO Allies and partners. For more information about USEUCOM, visit www.eucom.mil . NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkish 66th Mechanized Infantry Brigade deploys to exercise STEADFAST DART NATO Allied Joint Force Command (JFC) Brunssum Feb 7 2026 BERGEN, Germany -- Turkiye's 66th Mechanized Infantry Brigade Command, part of NATO's Allied Reaction Force (ARF), arrived at Wunstdorf Air Base in northern Germany on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, to participate in exercise STEADFAST DART 2026. The deployment of the 650 Turkish troops supports NATO's Allied Reaction Force (ARF), a key element of the Alliance's deterrence and defence posture designed to ensure rapid reinforcement and credible collective response across the Euro-Atlantic area. The first units of the brigade have arrived in Germany with more deploying through additional sorties, along with equipment in the coming days. STEADFAST DART 26 is intended to test and refine NATO's ability to deploy forces swiftly across national borders, integrate multinational components, and operate effectively in high-readiness scenarios. For Turkiye, the exercise provides an opportunity to demonstrate the operational preparedness of its mechanized forces and their interoperability within a multinational environment. Turkiye's participation with the 66th Mechanized Infantry Brigade underscores its strong commitment to NATO, its readiness to contribute capable land forces, and its role as a key Ally in maintaining deterrence and collective security. Story by NATO Media Information Centre NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Army corps commanders across nato gather to shape operations in 2026 NATO Allied Land Command Feb 7 2026 By NATO Allied Land Command Public Affairs Office IZMIR, Turkiye -- Corps Commanders from across NATO's land forces met here January 29-30 to discuss plans for operationalizing their respective ability to execute NATO's integrated defense plans by aligning training, innovation, and investments. During the event, both U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe and U.S. Army Gen. Christopher T. Donahue, Commander of NATO Allied Land Command, addressed and took feedback from Allied leaders. During opening remarks, Donahue reflected on the progress made throughout 2025 to establish a culture and shared understanding of the Eastern Flank Deterrence Line concept. "The goal year one was to increase the land domain's contribution to deterrence, and we achieved it," said Donahue. "In year two, we will resource the plans through the EFDL." The Eastern Flank Deterrence Line is LANDCOM's transformational warfighting concept that drives the ability of land forces to execute the regional plans to establish credible deterrence and fight and win in a conflict. NATO's EFDL leverages conventional forces alongside uncrewed and minimally crewed systems, backed with an integrated mission command network using live data to accelerate decision-making, to offset forward posture and adversary advantages in mass and momentum. It is complementary to national and multi-lateral efforts such as the Baltic Defense Line and Poland's East Shield. The EFDL is not a singular unit or location, it is a distributed system of capabilities and operational concept across domains and nations. "2026 is the year of execution for land forces," said Donahue as he outlined the path forward to senior leaders. "Increasing Corps involvement in how we train and build ground deterrence lethality is essential to continuing the transformation and readiness of land forces." Over the two-day event, leaders discussed challenges and ways to overcome them, and developed actionable steps to ensure the integration of NATO regional plans and forces with host-nation plans and host-nation forces. On day two, Grynkewich reinforced the importance of the land domain. "Here at LANDCOM, ground deterrence relies on you, and I need you to be able to do what you say can do," said Grynkewich. "This is LANDCOM's year of execution. A year to operationalize transformation, rehearse plans, and to set the conditions to rapidly implement them." "We all play an important role in the protection of our shared interests across the entire Euro-Atlantic region and in increasing the collective strength of the Alliance," said Grynkewich. This week's event underscored the commitment of NATO's senior land domain leaders to strengthen the Alliance's deterrence posture and, if needed, the readiness to defend it. LANDCOM, headquartered in Izmir, Turkiye, leads the land component of NATO's Joint Forces. It serves as the focal point for land operations, responsible for coordinating and synchronizing land forces across the Alliance's area of responsibility. The command develops, integrates, and coordinates land capabilities to deter and defend against any threat, as outlined in NATO's Strategic Concept for a resilient and responsive Alliance. For more information on NATO Allied Land Command, visit https://lc.nato.int. Story by Public Affairs Office at LANDCOM NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Royal New Zealand Navy's HMNZS Canterbury departs for mission to Tokelau New Zealand Defence Force Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) multi-role vessel HMNZS Canterbury will arrive into Samoa this weekend for a fuel stop as the ship begins its first South West Pacific maritime operation for 2026, Operation Calypso. 07 February, 2026 The deployment includes a visit to Tokelau, a realm nation which was last visited by an RNZN ship in 2020. Making the journey on Canterbury to the atolls of Atafu, Nukunono and Fakaofo will be the Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Cindy Kiro and her husband Dr Richard Davies, reaffirming the special bonds between the two nations as they mark the centenary of New Zealand administration of Tokelau on 11 February. Also travelling to Tokelau will be personnel from various New Zealand Government agencies. Weather agency MetService received a request from Tokelau government agencies for observer training and will be conducting a needs assessment as well as servicing the Automatic Weather Station on Nukunonu. One New Zealand Police officer will take the opportunity to meet with the Tokelau Chief of Police and other officials, and an officer from the Tokelauan National Disaster Management Office will also be on Canterbury to transit between the atolls. Once the mission in Tokelau has concluded, Canterbury will return to Apia to disembark some passengers before returning to New Zealand via Raoul Island. On Raoul Island, Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopters and flight crew who are on board Canterbury, along with New Zealand Army personnel and the ship's company, will assist MetService and Earth Sciences New Zealand personnel to carry out upgrade and maintenance tasks of critical weather, tsunami and volcano monitoring equipment and facilities. Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Rob Krushka, says the Pacific mission Operation Calypso highlights the capability of the New Zealand Defence Force's people and platforms. "Tokelau and Raoul Island are two examples of hard to reach places in our region, where carrying out tasks can be very logistically challenging. "We're pleased to be able to support the visit of Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro and New Zealand government agencies to deliver services and equipment to these areas through one of our regular South West Pacific deployments." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski visits United States Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland 07.02.2026 Poland's top diplomat Radosaw Sikorski visited the United States between 4 and 7 February 2026, where he took part in the Critical Minerals Ministerial. The visit took place at the invitation of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and coincided with the 280th anniversary (4 February) of the birth of General Tadeusz Kosciuszko, the hero of both nations. On this occasion, Minister Sikorski inaugurated the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of American independence and the Polish-American friendship. The United States, in cooperation with its closest allies, is taking action to strengthen supply chains for critical minerals. These supply chains are essential to the functioning of modern economies, as they underpin technological development, the energy transition, and the industrial security of states. This is an important issue for the entire West. The United States has identified a serious problem that our companies have already faced [...]. First came the shortage of magnets, followed by proposals aimed at rationing critical minerals - recalled the Polish foreign minister. The European Union already has a position on these challenges, and now the United States has proposed a major international initiative whose goals Poland and the rest of the European Union support - he added. Deputy Prime Minister Sikorski announced that the proposals presented by the US authorities will be the subject of further work, including within the European Union. He also expressed his belief that transatlantic cooperation on security and the economy is evidence of the enduring bonds between the US and Europe. Critical minerals cannot be used for blackmail, and their production should be geographically more diversified. This is an element of our economic security - summarised Minister Sikorski. The next stop on the US tour were meetings in Washington. The deputy prime minister met with members of Congress, analysts, and Polish and American journalists to discuss transatlantic cooperation on security and defence. Also emphasised was the need to continue supporting Ukraine in its armed struggle. Minister Radosaw Sikorski also laid flowers at the bust of General Tadeusz Kosciuszko at the US Congress. 4 February marked the 280th anniversary of this Polish-American hero's birth. While in the US capital, the Polish foreign minister inspected the progress of work on constructing the new building of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Washington. In December 2024 Poland finalised the purchase of property intended for this diplomatic mission. On the final day of the visit, Minister Sikorski travelled to Chicago, home to the largest Polish community in the United States. He met with its representatives at the Polish Museum of America and with Hubert Cioromski, President of the Polish American Congress. In talks with the governor of Illinois and the mayor of Chicago, the minister raised the issue of the Polish diaspora's contribution to the city's development and discussed prospects for strengthening economic cooperation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Palestinian disarmament plans facilitate genocide in Gaza: Hamas IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Top official of the Hamas movement Khaled Mashal has strongly rejected calls for disarmament of Gaza, describing them as a step toward facilitating the annihilation and genocide of Palestinians. Speaking to Al Jazeera TV network, Mashal said efforts to disarm Hamas aim to turn the Palestinian people into easy victims of Israeli attacks. He accused the Israeli regime of attempting to seize Palestinian weapons to arm militias, sow chaos, and commit acts of terror. Mashal called on the US, European nations, and international forces to engage with Palestine based on principled approaches rather than the regime's perspective. He emphasized Hamas's commitment to Gaza's reconstruction, ensuring all aid reaches the region, and establishing long-term stability. He stressed that Hamas rejects foreign intervention. The Israeli aggression continues, and Palestinians counter it by balancing rights with their national identity and aspirations, Mashal said, adding that the weapons remaining in Gaza are purely defensive, and that resisting forced displacement of Palestinians is one of Hamas's greatest achievements. Following Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7, 2023, the Israeli regime initiated massive airstrikes, aiming to destroy Hamas and occupy Gaza, but has so far failed to achieve its objectives. The conflict has killed over 71,000 Palestinians, destroyed 70% of homes and infrastructure, and triggered severe humanitarian crises, including famine and widespread displacement. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Aboul Gheit condemns attack on relief convoys in Sudan League of Arab States Date: 08/02/2026 Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, condemned in the strongest terms the attack carried out on 6 February by the Rapid Support Forces against humanitarian aid convoys and relief workers in North Kordofan State in the Republic of Sudan, which resulted in loss of life and the destruction of food supplies intended for besieged civilians facing extremely harsh humanitarian conditions. Gamal Roshdy, the official spokesperson for the Secretary-General, said that Mr. Aboul Gheit's affirmed that this assault constitutes a fully fledged war crime under international humanitarian law, which criminalises the deliberate targeting of civilians and the deprivation of the means necessary for their survival. Mr. Aboul Gheit stressed the imperative of holding those responsible for such crimes to account and of putting an end to impunity, while ensuring full protection for civilians, humanitarian personnel, and relief facilities in Sudan. The spokesperson added that the Sudanese people, who have borne immense suffering as a result of the conflict, have the full right to security and stability and to the fulfilment of their legitimate aspirations for a dignified life. He asserted that the League of Arab States will continue to work with its regional and international partners to halt the violence and support an inclusive political process that brings the conflict to an end, preserves Sudan's unity and the integrity of its national institutions, and safeguards the dignity of its people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Several Palestinians wounded in coordinated settler attacks across West Bank Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 4:02 PM Armed Israeli settlers have carried out a series of new attacks across the occupied West Bank, injuring several Palestinians in different locations, local media reports say. According to the Palestinian WAFA news agency, incidents near Nablus and Ramallah included physical assaults, road blockades, and property targeting. In the first incident, settlers assaulted at least three Palestinians working on their land in the town of Beit Imrin, north of Nablus, leaving them with bruises and injuries. One of the wounded was transferred to the hospital by the Palestinian Red Crescent. In a separate incident east of Ramallah, two Palestinians were injured after settlers blocked a road between Ramoun village and Deir Dibwan town before assaulting them. One sustained a head injury and required hospitalization. Additional assaults were reported in the town of Qusra, south of Nablus. Local sources also reported attacks in the northern Jordan Valley and near al-Mughayyir village, where settlers targeted caves and agricultural areas. Separately, the Israeli army said it shot a Palestinian detainee inside a military base in the Jordan Valley after alleging he attacked a soldier. Israeli media reported the man, in his 50s, had been arrested at the Allenby Bridge crossing a day earlier and transferred to a military facility where he was shot in the knees, sustaining injuries. Israeli forces also conducted raids across multiple towns and refugee camps, firing tear gas and storming homes in al-Bireh, the Amari camp, eastern Lubban, al-Mughayyir, and Kafr Aqab. In Azzun, east of Qalqilya, soldiers seized a house and turned it into a military post. In Yatta, south of al-Khalil, two Palestinians were detained, including a local council head and a resident who confronted settlers grazing livestock near his home. Several vehicles were confiscated, and residents were interrogated in additional searches across the region. Settlers escorted by Israeli forces have carried out hundreds of attacks against Palestinians and their property in recent months, targeting farmland, roads and homes. The incidents come amid intensified Israeli military offensive in the West Bank since the start of the Tel Aviv regime's genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023, including killings, arrests, displacement and settlement expansion. At least 1,112 Palestinians have been killed, about 11,500 wounded and more than 21,000 detained during this period. Drop Site News, in a report on Saturday, revealed that since the start of Israel's war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, an estimated 10,000 Palestinians have been displaced within the occupied West Bank, with entire villages dismantled and erased. In July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory is illegal and called for the evacuation of settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, a decision that remains unimplemented. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas leader rejects disarmament, foreign rule in Gaza Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 1:45 PM A senior leader of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has firmly rejected calls for the group to surrender its weapons or accept foreign intervention in Gaza, pushing back against demands from the United States and Israel tied to the ongoing ceasefire process. Khaled Meshaal, a former Hamas chief who currently heads the group's diaspora office, made these remarks during a conference in Doha on Sunday, emphasizing that efforts to criminalize armed resistance and disarm Palestinian factions are "unacceptable" under continued Israeli occupation. "Criminalizing the resistance, its weapons, and those who carried it out is something we should not accept," Meshaal said. "As long as there is occupation, there is resistance. Resistance is a right of peoples under occupation ... something nations take pride in," he added. Meshaal further warned that Hamas would unequivocally reject any form of foreign rule in Gaza. "We adhere to our national principles and reject the logic of guardianship, external intervention, or the return of a mandate in any form," he said. "Palestinians are to govern Palestinians. Gaza belongs to the people of Gaza and to Palestine. We will not accept foreign rule," he added. Meshaal further urged the so-called Board of Peace to adopt a "balanced approach" that would facilitate Gaza's reconstruction and the flow of aid to its roughly 2.2 million residents. The US-brokered ceasefire, reached on October 10, 2025, mandated Israel to open all crossings into Gaza, allowing food and aid to enter and ending hostilities in exchange for the release of all captives held by Hamas. While Hamas has complied with the agreement, Israel has continued attacks on Gaza and kept most crossings closed, thereby blocking vital aid. In January, US President Donald Trump initiated the establishment of a new "Board of Peace" tasked with supporting the ceasefire in Gaza. The board, part of Trump's 20-point plan to end the Gaza war, is expected to temporarily oversee the running of the territory, with approximately 60 countries invited to join at a cost of a billion dollars each for permanent membership. The Israeli genocidal war has killed nearly 72,000 Palestinians, wounded more than 171,000 others, and devastated about 90% of Gaza's infrastructure since October 2023. The UN has estimated reconstruction costs at about $70 billion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Doctors Without Borders warns Israeli ban plunges Gaza essential lifeline into risk Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 10:56 AM Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has warned that the Israeli regime's ban on the agency puts at risk the medical relief lifeline provided by the international charity organization for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli regime banned the activities of dozens of relief groups in Gaza, MSF included, claiming the international NGO had refused to provide a detailed list of its Palestinian employees. Media reports on Sunday cited an MSF official telling Al Jazeera about the dire situation repeated due to the Israeli obstruction of humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the besieged coastal sliver. MSF official Craig Kenzie warned that a critical lifeline for Palestinians in Gaza could be "completely taken away" within weeks due to the Israeli ban on the organization's humanitarian operations in the war-torn enclave. The MSF project coordinator said his organization supplies some 20 percent of the hospital beds, one-third of the deliveries, and more than 800,000 consultations a year in Gaza. "This is a massive impact and an essential lifeline for the population of Gaza that is potentially looking to be completely taken away in the next couple of weeks," Kenzie was quoted as saying from al-Mawasi in Gaza. Access to potable water will be a "huge concern" in Gaza if Israeli regime forces make MSF and other international NGOs leave the war-torn Palestinian territory. "We are distributing over 4.5 million liters of water a day. That is about 65km of jerry cans lined up one by one every single day." In addition to critical operation of providing water for drinking, the international relief organizations operating in Gaza deliver a range of essential services, including healthcare, food distribution, shelter and sanitation, education, and psychological support. Ninety percent of the civilian infrastructure in Gaza has been destroyed by the Israeli forces. The Israeli regime announced on Sunday that an international medical aid charity providing the essential humanitarian lifeline will be forced to leave Gaza before the end of the month. Israeli officials claim some MSF employees are linked to the Palestinian Hamas resistance movement. The charity has rejected the Israeli claim, denouncing the Israeli ban as a "pretext to obstruct humanitarian assistance" to Palestinians in Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Somalia president warns against Israeli interference, vows to prevent any military base in Somaliland Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 10:02 AM The president of Somalia has strongly denounced the Israeli regime's interference in his country's internal affairs and vowed to "confront" any Israeli military presence in the breakaway region of Somaliland. In an interview on Saturday, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Israel's recognition of Somaliland as an independent state is a "reckless, fundamentally wrong and illegal action under international law." Somaliland is a breakaway region in northwestern Somalia, covering territory that was once part of the British Protectorate. Despite its unilateral separation, it remains internationally recognized as part of Somalia. The region occupies a strategic position along one of the world's most vital maritime choke points, an area already surrounded by overlapping conflicts in the Horn of Africa and West Asia. In recent years, Somaliland has sought foreign support by developing ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a signatory to the Abraham Accords with Israel, as well as Taiwan, in an effort to gain international acceptance outside Mogadishu's authority. Israel's move followed reports that the regime had contacted actors in Somaliland to discuss using the territory for the forced displacement of Palestinians during its genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians and wounded another 172,000, most of them women and children. While Israeli and Somaliland authorities rejected those reports, a Somaliland official told Israel's Channel 12 in January that an Israeli military base is "on the table and being discussed," with its establishment tied to specific conditions. Somalia has described Israel's recognition of Somaliland as a direct assault on its territorial integrity and national unity, a position endorsed by most African and Arab countries, and has demanded that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reverse the decision. Mohamud also made clear that Mogadishu will resist any Israeli military presence on Somali soil: "We will fight in our capacity. Of course, we will defend ourselves ... And that means that we will confront any Israeli forces coming in, because we are against that and we will never allow that." He said Israel's actions, which are "interfering with Somalia's sovereign and territorial integrity," also "undermine stability, security and trade in a way that affects the whole of Africa, the Red Sea and the wider world." Mohamud stressed that Israel's deadly use of force against Palestinians in Gaza cannot be separated from developments in Somaliland, saying both reflect the erosion of global norms and restraints. "Key among the global concerns is the weakening of the established rules-based international order. That order is not intact anymore," he said. He warned that institutions created after World War II "are under grave threat," as the idea that "the mighty is right" increasingly replaces respect for international law. The administration of US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has yet to signal a significant change in its position on Somaliland. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Once Washington's Closest Caucasus Partner, Georgia To Watch Vance Visit From The Outside By Ulviyya Asadzade February 08, 2026 When leaving Tbilisi for the airport, travelers pass along George W Bush Avenue, named after the former US president following his landmark 2005 visit -- a reminder of a period when Georgia was among Washington's closest partners in the South Caucasus. That road now appears to be a dead end, or at least closed for repairs. Once Washington's closest partner in the South Caucasus, Georgia now finds itself stranded in US regional diplomacy. And, as Tbilisi deepens ties with China while maintaining its engagement with Russia, Washington's attention is increasingly shifting toward Azerbaijan and Armenia. Nowhere was that more evident than at the recent launch of US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace initiative. Azerbaijan and Armenia received invitations to what the American leader calls "the most consequential bodies ever created." Georgia was left out. Now Vice President JD Vance is arriving in the region on February 9 -- the highest ranking US official to visit the region since Joe Biden came as vice president in 2009 -- and Tbilisi can only look on from the outside as he visits Baku and Yerevan. "Where do we stand today? Donald Trump created a Peace Council and invited almost every country in the region, except Georgia. Azerbaijan declares that transit will no longer pass through Georgia. Armenia also wants to open its border with Azerbaijan. Where is Georgia? On what platform? In what discussions? Whose allies are we, after all?" asked Georgian foreign policy analyst Giorgi Tumasyan. Two decades ago, the answer to Tumasyan's question was clear: Georgia was widely seen as the most Western-leaning democracy in the South Caucasus. Diminished Role For decades, Georgia's importance rested partly on the unresolved conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Georgia served as a key transit route for Caspian energy exports and as Armenia's main gateway to the outside world due to closed borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey. As Baku and Yerevan move closer through a US-backed peace process, analysts say Georgia's role as an indispensable transit corridor may diminish. But Tbilisi's drift really began after Georgian Dream came to power in 2012, as Western partners raised concerns about democratic backsliding with the rise of the party of Bidzina Ivanishvili, a Russia-friendly billionaire considered the country's most powerful political figure. Georgian Dream claimed victory in a 2024 election, but the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe said the process was marred by instances of vote-buying, double-voting, physical violence, and intimidation. Mass street protests over the result were met a violent response from security forces, prompting US sanctions in December 2024. Relations with Washington soured further last year after the Trump administration came to power. Outgoing US Ambassador to Tbilisi Robin Dunnigan told RFE/RL in an interview in July that the Georgian Dream party leadership sent a private letter to the White House that was "threatening, insulting, unserious, and was received extremely poorly in Washington." Dunnigan said she traveled to Washington in the first days of the Trump administration to meet senior officials and then returned to Georgia with US conditions to reset relations. She said these were 2-3 simple steps that included stopping "anti-American rhetoric," and that she then relayed them in a meeting with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili. The private letter came three days later. Dunnigan said the Trump administration was so surprised by the content of the letter that it "took us a while to come up with a response." That delay prompted a complaint from Tbilisi that included harsh words about Biden-era sanctions -- which are still in force -- and a bill in Congress called the MEGOBARI Act (short for Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia's Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act) that seeks increased scrutiny of the Georgian government's actions and its ties to Russia and other authoritarian regimes like China. Then an additional problem emerged. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepared a response to the private Georgian Dream letter but told Dunnigan to deliver it to Ivanishvili, who refused to meet her, saying that he felt it was wrong to do so while he himself was still under US sanctions. He added that the sanctions amounted to "personal blackmail." "If the de facto leader of this country is unwilling to meet with leadership of the United States or receive a message from the Trump administration he is, in fact, putting his personal interests against the interests of the Georgian people," Dunnigan said. Pivoting Eastward Today, analysts say Tbilisi is gradually pivoting eastward -- toward China and Russia - in sharp contrast to Azerbaijan and Armenia, which are strengthening ties with Washington. And while some analysts and officials note that Vance's trip is meant to highlight Trump's success in negotiating an end to decades of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Karabakh region, others say the snub is still evident. "In a region like the Caucasus, even a small amount of attention from the US can make a significant impact," said Joshua Kucera, a senior South Caucasus analyst at Crisis Group. "Both sides in Georgia's sharply polarized politics have been hoping for Trump to weigh in with support for their side, but the White House so far has shown little interest in the country that used to be a close US partner." Georgian leaders have also been largely absent from high-level Western forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian have both met Trump at the White House, while senior Georgian officials have not been seen in Washington for years. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in January reiterated that Georgia is "ready to renew the strategic partnership from a clean slate and with a concrete roadmap," but analysts say it will take more given Tbilisi's eastward moves. Vakhtang Partsvania, an economics professor at Caucasus University, said Georgia's growing alignment with China has been particularly damaging to its standing in Washington. "By elevating China to a strategic partner, as was done by the Georgian Dream, inviting Chinese companies into critical infrastructure like the Anaklia deep port construction project, and attacking long-time pro-Georgia advocates in Congress, Georgia has undermined the very coalition in Washington that supported it for decades. That's why we see frustration -- and silence in response," Partsvania told RFE/RL. Analysts also say Georgia's pivot eastward offers limited benefits. Georgia lacks deep historical or cultural ties with China, and despite visa-free travel and a strategic partnership agreement, Beijing largely views Georgia as part of Russia's sphere of influence, Kornely Kakachia, a political science professor at Tbilisi State University told RFE/RL. As for Moscow, Russia remains consumed by its war in Ukraine. "There is a belief within Georgian Dream that Russia might eventually reward loyalty -- perhaps even by restoring Georgia's territorial integrity," Kakachia said, referring to Abkhazia and South Ossetia, the Georgian regions controlled by Russia since the 2008 war. "But this is not happening, and this is a huge problem for Georgian Dream, which was calculating based on that sort of outcome", he added. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-caucasus-georgia- vance-azerbaijan-armenia-relations/33672635.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas condemns Israel's 'fascist settler-colonial' project aimed at annexing West Bank Iran Press TV Monday, 09 February 2026 1:58 AM The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has strongly condemned a series of decisions approved by Israel's security cabinet on Sunday, labeling them as part of a "fascist settler-colonial approach" aimed at annexing the occupied West Bank. Hamas, in an official statement released on Sunday measures such as land seizures, the registration of property for Zionist settlers, and de-authorization of Palestinian municipalities are aimed at imposing the regime's false sovereignty , and ethnically cleansing Palestinians from their land. A report published in The Cradle on Sunday said that the Israeli cabinet had approved a broad series of measures designed to accelerate settlement growth in the occupied West Bank and tighten Israeli control over the area. The measures have been championed by two notorious Israeli cabinet ministers, namely finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and the regime's war minister Israel Katz. The two are known for their deep hatred of the Palestinians and their persistent efforts to undermine the rights of people in the occupied territories. The measures include repealing a decades-old Jordanian-era prohibition on Jewish citizens purchasing land in the occupied West Bank, declassifying previously confidential land registry records to make property ownership details public, eliminating special transaction permits for land sales, and shifting certain administrative and planning authoritiesincluding in the city of Hebronfrom Palestinian municipalities to Israel's so-called Civil Administration. Additional changes expand Israeli enforcement powers in Palestinian-administered Areas A and B for issues such as environmental, archaeological, and heritage matters, potentially allowing demolitions or interventions in Palestinian-controlled zones. In its statement, Hamas denounced the decisions as falling within a "comprehensive annexation plan" alongside Israel's "genocidal war and ethnic cleansing." The group highlighted specific elements, such as land seizures, opening property registries to benefit settlers, and attempts to infringe on Palestinian municipalitiesparticularly in Hebronas efforts to alter geographical and legal facts on the ground and impose Israeli control. "We affirm that the Zionist occupation cabinet's approval of new decisions targeting our people and land in the West Bank... falls within the fascist settler-colonial approach," the statement read. The movement called for national unity and resistance against these plans, urging Palestinians to confront the fascist occupying regime and its settlers by all available means. Hamas called on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and al-Quds to "intensify the confrontation with the occupation and its settlers by all available means" to thwart annexation, Judaization, and forced displacement. The resistance movement emphasized that Palestinians "will not surrender to these occupation policies" and will uphold their historical rights through steadfastness and resistance. It further demanded that Arab and Islamic states fulfill their "historical responsibility" by cutting relations with Israel, expelling its ambassadors from countries with ties, and adopting a unified position in support of Palestinian rights. Hamas also urged the United Nations and international community to apply "real and effective pressure" on Israel to halt violations and hold it accountable for crimes against Palestinian land and people. The Hamas statement aligns with broader Palestinian reactions, including from the Palestinian Authority and Fatah, which have described the moves as "criminal" and aimed at entrenching annexation while violating international law and the Oslo Accords. Human rights groups warn that public land registries could facilitate settler approaches to Palestinian landowners for purchases or pressure, accelerating settlement expansion and complicating future Palestinian statehood claims. The decisions come amid ongoing tensions in the occupied territories, where Israeli settlement activity has continued to rise despite international condemnation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 08 February 2026 - Day 1445 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The UK Ministry of Defence reported that Russia is moving to grant the Federal Security Service (FSB) with sweeping authority over the country's communications networks. On 27 January 2026, the State Duma advanced government-backed amendments that would allow the FSB to shut down mobile internet, fixed-line internet, telephone services, and "any other means of communication" in response to vaguely defined "security threats". The bill would compel telecom operators to suspend services immediately upon receiving an FSB order and would shield them from all financial liability for resulting outages. As Russian law defines 'communications services' as broadly covering voice, text, images, and data transmitted by radio, fibre-optic, or other electromagnetic systems, the amendments would give the FSB unprecedented reach across the entire communications landscape. This legislative push aligns with a broader tightening of Russia's information controls, including new directives from Russian President Putin to restrict software from "unfriendly" countries. If adopted, the amendments would formalise and expand the state's ability to silence communications at scale, reinforcing a trajectory towards deeper state control that has increased since Russia launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. These domestic measures coincide with Russia's growing role in exporting censorship and shutdown technologies abroad. Investigations by private media outlets show Russia helped Iran build one of the most advanced internet-control systems ever deployed, centred on deep packet inspection capable of throttling apps, blocking VPNs, and tracking protest organisers in real time. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Defense Forces are directing efforts to disrupt the execution of Russian invaders' offensive plans and exhaust their combat potential. Since the beginning of the day, there have been 283 combat clashes. The Russian enemy made one missile strike, using six missiles, 50 aviation strikes, dropping 144 controlled air bombs. In addition, I used 2,211 kamikaze drones and carried out 2,061 shelling of settlements and positions of Ukrainian troops. In the Northern Slobozhansky and Kursk directions today, Ukrainian soldiers repelled three Russian attacks, the Russian enemy launched 57 shells of the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements, including five from the reactive systems of salvage fire. In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian enemy attacked the positions of Ukrainian units in the areas of the settlements of Vovchansk, Staritsa, Prylipka and towards Figolivka. Ukrainian units repelled seven attacks. 13 attacks were repelled by Ukrainian defenders in the Kupyansky direction, towards Kupyanska, Podoliv, Petropavlivka, Sand, Novoosinovogo, Nova Kruglyakivka, Novoplatonivka. Another combat encounter is currently underway. In the Lyman direction, Ukrainian soldiers stopped 22 attacks in the areas of the settlements of Drobisheve, Serednoe, Zarichne and towards Druzhelyubivka, Stavkiv, Shiikivka, Lyman. In the Slavic direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled 14 Russian attempts to advance, in the area of the settlement of Dronivka and towards Zakitnogo, Rai-Oleksandrivka, Platonivka. In the Kramators -komu direction, the Russian opponent committed one attack in the area of Orihovo-Vasilivki. In the Konstantinivka direction, the Russian occupiers today stormed the positions of Ukrainian defenders 30 times near the settlements of Pleshiyivka, Rusin Yar, Yablunivka and towards Konstantyivka, Ivanopilya, Illinivka, Nikolaypillya, Stepanivka, Sofiyivka. The enemy committed 63 attacks in the Pokrovsky direction. The Russian occupiers tried to advance near the settlements Rodinske, Pokrovsk, Kotline, Udaachne, Molodetske, Muravka, Mirnograd, Filiya and towards the settlements Toretske, Kucheriv Yar, Bilitske, Shevchenko, Novooleksandrivka, Sergiyivka, Novopidgorodne, Novopavlivka, Ivanivka, Grishine, New Donbass. Fights are still going on in some locations. According to preliminary calculations, today in this direction, Ukrainian soldiers have eliminated 146 Russian invaders and wounded 46; destroyed 32 unmanned aircraft, 16 car transport units, a special equipment unit, seven vehicle equipment units and four Russian personnel covers were also affected. In the Oleksandrivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped seven Russian attacks, in the area of Privilia and towards the settlements Andriyivka-Klevtsove, Ivanivka, Oleksandrograd. The Kolomiytsi settlement suffered an airstrike by controlled air bombs. 26 Russian attacks took place in the Gulyaipil direction - in the areas of Solodky, Gulyaipol, Dorozhnyanka, Mirnoy and towards the Railway, Olenokostyantinivka. In some locations, the fights are still ongoing. Russian aviation struck settlements Zelena Dibrova, Barvinivka, Nizhenka, Lyubitske, Vozdvizhivka, Kopany. In the Orihiv direction, the Russian enemy attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders five times in the area of Kamiansky, Sherbakov and towards Lukyanivsky. In the Pridnipro direction of offensive actions of the Russian enemy is not marked. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. As a result of resolute actions, units of the Sever Group of Forces took Sidorovka (Sumy region) under control. Losses were inflicted on formations of one assault regiment of the AFU and one territorial defence brigade near Andreyevka and Ugroyedy (Sumy region). In Kharkov region, losses were inflicted on units of two mechanised brigades, one motorised infantry brigade of the AFU, one territorial defence brigade, and three border detachments of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine near Veliky Burluk, Malaya Volchaya, Kolodeznoye, Nestrernoye, Okhrimovka, Petropavlovka, and Tikhoye (Kharkov region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 210 troops, one armoured personnel carrier, and 12 motor vehicles. Six ammunition depots and five materiel depots were destroyed. Units of the Zapad Group of Forces took Glushkovka (Kharkov region) under control. Losses were inflicted on manpower and hardware of three mechanised brigades of the AFU and one national guard brigade near Kovsharovka, Nechvolodovka, Novoosinovo, Pechenegy, and Shiykovka (Kharkov region). The AFU losses amounted to more than 150 troops, 12 pickup trucks, and four ammunition depots. Units of the Yug Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line. Losses were inflicted on formations of two mechanised brigades, one assault brigade, one battalion of the Unmanned System Forces of the AFU, and three territorial defence brigades near Artem, Druzhkovka, Kondratovka, Konstantinovka, Kramatorsk, Nikolaipolye, and Slavyansk (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses amounted to more than 120 troops, one Kozak armoured fighting vehicle, 14 motor vehicles, and three field artillery guns. One materiel depot was destroyed. The Tsentr Group of Forces' units took more advantageous lines and positions. Losses were inflicted on manpower and hardware of five mechanised brigades, one jaeger brigade, one air assault brigade, one assault regiment of the AFU, one marine brigade, three national guard brigades, and the Azov Special Operations Brigade near Belitskoye, Vodyanskoye, Grishino, Dobropolye, Kutuzovka, Kucherov Yar, Sveltoye, Sergeyevka, Toretskoye (Donetsk People's Republic) and Novopavlovka (Dnepropetrovsk region). The AFU losses amounted to more than 205 troops, one U.S.-made MaxxPro armoured fighting vehicle, two pickup trucks, and one artillery gun. The Vostok Group's units continued to advance to the depths of the enemy's defence. Losses were inflicted on formations of one mechanised brigade, one assault brigade, two air assault brigades, and seven assault regiments of the AFU near Orly, Pokrovskoye (Dnepropetrovsk region), Barvinovka, Vozdvizhevka, Kommunarovka, Rovnoye, Samoylovka, Staroukrainka, Tsetkovoye, and Shirokoye (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 390 troops, eight armoured fighting vehicles, 16 motor vehicles, and one Grad MLRS combat vehicle. Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the 128th Mountain Assault Brigade of the AFU near Shcherbaki (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 30 troops, two motor vehicles, and one materiel depot. Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces struck power and energy and transport infrastructure used by the AFU as well as temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 145 areas. Air defence means shot down 27 U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, three Neptune long-range guided missiles, and 42 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation the enemy has lost: 670 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 112,924 unmanned aerial vehicles, 650 anti-aircraft missile systems, 27,553 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,661 MLRS combat vehicles, 33,150 field artillery guns and mortars, 53,913 units of support military vehicles. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Daily Press Briefing (02/03/2026) France - Ministere de lEurope et des Affaires etrangeres - Press briefing Statements by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Published on February 3, 2026 Partial reopening of the Rafah crossing (Feb. 3, 2026) France welcomes the partial reopening of the Rafah border crossing in both directions, allowing for the first medical evacuations. We also welcome the redeployment of both the EU Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) and Palestinian Authority personnel, who must be able to fully perform their duties at the crossing in accordance with the terms that were previously agreed upon. The reopening of the crossing is an important first step in the implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan. All efforts must now focus on the massive, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza through all crossing points, the rebuilding of the enclave and the re-establishment of a political horizon in order to forge a lasting peace. France calls on the parties to abide by their commitments in this regard and deplores the ceasefire violations that have taken place in Gaza in recent days, including the Israeli airstrikes on January 31, which killed numerous civilians. France, along with its partners, stands ready to help with the implementation of the peace plan's next steps and UNSC resolution 2803. We are deploying six members of the National Gendarmerie to the EUBAM mission, whose goal is to provide support for securing the border crossing and for the redeployment of the Palestinian Authority, which is tasked with overseeing operations at the Rafah crossing. We are prepare to increase our contribution through an additional deployment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Visit of NSA Shri Ajit Doval to Ottawa, Canada (06- 07 February 2026) India - Ministry of External Affairs February 08, 2026 NSA Shri Ajit Doval met Ms Nathalie Drouin, Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada on 07 February 2026. The visit was part of regular bilateral security dialogue between the two sides. 2. The two sides acknowledged the progress on initiatives aimed at supporting the safety and security of their countries and citizens. They agreed to a shared workplan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues and to enable practical collaboration on respective priorities. 3. During the meeting, it was agreed that each country would establish security and law-enforcement liaison officers and that their respective agencies would build on working relationships. This important step will help streamline bilateral communications and enable timely information sharing on issues of mutual concern to Canada and India, such as the illegal flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl precursors, and transnational organized criminal networks. 4. They also committed to formalizing cooperation on cybersecurity policy and information sharing on cybersecurity issues, as well as continuing discussions on cooperation related to fraud and immigration enforcement, consistent with domestic laws and international obligations. 5. NSA also had a meeting with Mr. Gary Anandasangaree, Minister for Public Safety of Canada on 06 February 2026. Ottawa February 08, 2026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister holds official talks with Prime Minister of Malaysia (February 08, 2026) India - Ministry of External Affairs February 08, 2026 Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was today received by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Perdana Putra complex and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Thereafter, the Leaders met in restricted and delegation-level formats at Seri Perdana, the official residence of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 2. The leaders held wide-ranging discussions and agreed to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between the two countries in 2024. They recalled the age-old India-Malaysia ties which underpin the partnership and the close people-to-people bonds. The leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including priority sectors such as trade, investment, defence, security, maritime, clean energy, infrastructure, start-ups, agriculture, education, health, Ayurveda, tourism and cultural linkages. They also discussed enhancing cooperation in emerging areas such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. The leaders appreciated the steady progress in digital cooperation between the two countries through the bilateral Digital Council and welcomed the agreement between UPI and Pay-net to enhance fintech collaboration. 3. Prime Minister Modi called for strengthening youth linkages through parliamentary and university exchanges. In this context, he welcomed the ongoing cooperation between Nalanda University in India and Universiti Malaya, and IIT Madras and Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia. He noted that the opening of India India's first Consulate in Malaysia would strengthen commercial and people-to-people ties. 4. The two leaders exchanged perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including global governance reforms, the Indo-pacific and the growing India-ASEAN partnership. Prime Minister called for the AITIGA review to be completed at the earliest. 5. Prime Minister also took the opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for Malaysia's successful Chairship of ASEAN in 2025. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed his good wishes and support for India's Presidency of the BRICS in 2026. Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the Red Fort blast, and called for continued close cooperation in counter-terrorism. 6. Following the talks, several important bilateral agreements, including on digital payments, security cooperation, semiconductors, health and medicine, disaster management, combating corruption, audio-visual co-production, technical and vocational education, UN peacekeeping cooperation and social security for Indian workers were exchanged. Malaysia also completed all procedures for its accession to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). The full list of MoUs/ agreements exchanged may be seen here. [Link] 7. The 10th India-Malaysia CEO Forum was held on 07 February 2026, on the margins of the visit of Prime Minister. The outcome document of the Forum was received by both sides. 8. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hosted a luncheon banquet in honor of Prime Minister. Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his gracious hospitality and invited him to visit India. Kuala Lumpur February 08, 2026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Transcript of Special briefing by Secretary (East) on Prime Minister's visit to Malaysia (February 08, 2026) India - Ministry of External Affairs February 08, 2026 Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I welcome you to this press briefing on Prime Minister's ongoing official visit to Malaysia. We have with us our Secretary, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Shri P. Kumaran, who will be giving us an update on Prime Minister's visit. We are also joined by Shri Prashant Agrawal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, who looks after our ties with Malaysia. With that, I hand over the floor to Secretary (East) for his initial remarks. Sir, over to you. Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East): Thank you, Randhir. Good afternoon to all friends from the media. I extend a warm welcome to all of you for joining us today. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, is here in Kuala Lumpur, as you all know, on an official visit, which commenced yesterday and is concluding in the next few minutes. This visit is significant as it comes nearly a decade after Prime Minister's previous official visit to Malaysia in 2015. During that visit, India-Malaysia bilateral relations were elevated to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. In 2024, we had the pleasure of welcoming Prime Minister, His Excellency Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in India. The visit gave renewed momentum to our bilateral cooperation, and our bilateral partnership was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Prime Minister arrived yesterday and, in a special gesture, was very warmly received by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the airport, where he was also accorded a Guard of Honor. Prime Minister was greeted with vibrant cultural performances at the airport and also at the place of stay. The two Prime Ministers traveled together to the MINES International Exhibition and Convention Centre where they addressed a large gathering of the Indian community, comprising students, professionals, business persons, and members of various Indian cultural associations, among others. The program included an exhibition on the history of the Indian community in Malaysia and spectacular performances by about 800 local artists showcasing the richness of our shared heritage. I also understand that the number of artists that performed at a single place showcasing Indian dances also entered the Malaysian Book of Records. I may also add that the Prime Minister also interacted today with members of the Malaysian parliament, ministers, and other dignitaries from the Indian community. His meeting with two surviving veterans of the Indian National Army (INA), headed by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, was truly special. Earlier today, Prime Minister was received by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Perdana Putra complex and was accorded an official welcome ceremony. The leaders thereafter convened for bilateral discussions, both in restricted and delegation-level formats, at Seri Perdana, the official residence of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The two Prime Ministers reviewed bilateral cooperation across the full spectrum of our partnership, including trade, investments, defense, security, semiconductors, digital technologies, financial technologies (Fintech), renewable energy, education, healthcare, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. They also had the opportunity to discuss key regional and global issues. This was followed by the exchange of bilateral agreements and MOUs. These include exchange of notes on cooperation in the area of semiconductors, health and medicine, security, and technical and vocational education. In addition, the MoU between Malaysia's Anti-Corruption Commission and India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on combating and preventing corruption was signed. We also had an MoU on cooperation in the field of disaster management. A memorandum of cooperation between Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) in India and PERKESO in Malaysia on social security, and we also had an agreement on audio-visual cooperation, all of which were exchanged. The leaders also witnessed the exchange of letters on the renewal of the bilateral MOU on UN peacekeeping cooperation. Malaysia also handed over the instrument of its accession to the International Big Cat Alliance. Other MoUs and agreements signed during this visit include the agreement between NIPL and PAYNET on cross-border QR-based merchant payments, and the MoU between University of Cyberjaya and the Institute of Training and Research in Ayurveda, Ministry of AYUSH, India on academic collaboration. The Prime Ministers also addressed the media. PM announced setting up of a dedicated Thiruvalluvar chair at University Malaya. It may also be noted that the Prime Minister had earlier in 2024 announced establishment of a Thiruvalluvar chair of Indian Studies in University Malaya, which was operationalized in October 2025. Prime Minister also announced Thiruvalluvar scholarships for Malaysian scholars. With the objective of further strengthening our engagement and delivery of services to the Indian community, the Prime Minister has also announced the establishment of a Consulate General in Malaysia. The 10th meeting of the India-Malaysia CEO's Forum was convened on 7th February 2026. The outcome document of the forum's deliberations was presented by the co-chairs before the Prime Ministers. During the visit, Prime Minister also engaged with CEOs of prominent companies: Petronas, Berjaya, Khazanah, and Dato' K.S. Pua of Phison Electronics regarding their plans for India in key sectors. The visit also coincides with India's presidency of BRICS, of which Malaysia is now a partner country. Prime Minister congratulated Malaysia on its successful conclusion of its ASEAN chairship and reiterated India's commitment to working closely with Malaysia for further strengthening the ASEAN-India comprehensive strategic partnership. Malaysia remains a key partner in India's Act East Policy, Vision MAHASAGAR, and Indo-Pacific vision. Prime Minister also thanked Malaysia for its support in the ongoing review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA). Our economic partnership is strong and growing. Malaysia is India's third-largest trading partner in ASEAN, with bilateral trade close to about 20 billion US dollars. Our trade has diversified and it includes a variety of agricultural products, chemicals, minerals, appliances, and machinery. In emerging areas such as semiconductors and digital technology, our bilateral engagements have intensified. The inaugural Malaysia-India Digital Council was first held a few months ago. On semiconductors, there is collaboration underway between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia as well as the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association and Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association. Our countries have also exchanged notes on taking this cooperation further so as to strengthen the semiconductor value chain focusing on technology innovation, workforce development, and supply chain stability to build a resilient and competitive ecosystem. Both sides have also exchanged views on cooperation in digital technology, cyber security, AI, and Digital Public Infrastructure among others. The Prime Ministers also exchanged views on ongoing bilateral defense, security, and maritime cooperation. Our engagement in this area has intensified in recent years. The first India-Malaysia security dialogue was convened last year in January 2025. The 13th Malaysia-India Defense Committee meeting was convened in February 2025 where we finalized the terms of reference for establishment of a Sukhoi 30 forum and a strategic affairs working group. Both the countries also have regular bilateral exercises, Harimau Shakti for the Army, Samudra Laksamana for the Navy, and Udara Shakti for the Air Force. The fifth edition of Harimau Shakti was held in December 2025 in Rajasthan. Regular port visits, staff talks, conduct of training courses, etc., are also facets of our bilateral defense cooperation. Collaboration between our defense industries is also growing. A regional office of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been functional. Indian defense companies: MDL, BEML, HAL among others have been showcasing India's defense industrial prowess at prestigious events such as Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition. Malaysia has also been regularly participating in our key defense exhibitions such as Aero India. In their discussions today, the two Prime Ministers spoke about taking our strategic cooperation further in the area of defense and security. The presence of a 2.9 million strong Indian community in Malaysia is another important facet of our bilateral relationship. Not only does the community act like a living bridge between the two countries, but it also plays a valuable role in their economic development. Various initiatives have been undertaken in the recent past for the benefit of our diaspora members. This includes the extension of OCI cards to the sixth generation of PIOs in Malaysia. Similarly, for the benefit of Indian students studying in Malaysia, the government has recently replenished the Scholarships Trust Fund with 3 million Ringgit added to the corpus. The growing number of Indian workers and professionals has necessitated closer cooperation between the two countries in the area of labor welfare. With this in mind, an MoC (Memorandum of Collaboration) between ESIC and PERKESO on social security programs and activities for Indian citizens as insured persons in Malaysia has been finalized today. Both the countries have also instituted measures to promote P2P exchanges in addition to cultural and commercial contacts. We are extending visa-free or gratis e-visas to each other's nationals for tourism. As a result, in 2025, 1.4 million Indian tourists traveled to Malaysia whereas 300,000 Malaysian tourists visited India. Malaysia thus became the largest source of inbound tourism to India from the ASEAN region. The agreement between NIPL and PAYNET today would take our people-to-people cooperation a step further by making cross-border QR-based payments possible. The outcomes of this visit, we can say, are of immense significance not only because of the range and diversity of subjects covered but also the positive impact they would bring to our people and therefore reflect the true spirit of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Thank you very much. Himanshu Bhatt, Sun newspaper: Thank you. I'm Himanshu Bhatt. I'm the editor of The Sun newspaper in Malaysia. I wanted to ask in terms of digital Fintech, the announcement that UPI will be introduced in Malaysia. Of course, there were no details, but could you kindly provide our Malaysian readers the thrust of this and the modality and benefits it would entail to them? Yeah. Rishikesh, PTI: Sir, Rishikesh from PTI. So, the joint statement emphasized strengthening of cooperation in counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing. So, what was the discussion on combating terrorism with the Malaysian PM? And are there any information-sharing frameworks being established? And my second question is, are there any discussion on preserving and protection of Hindu temples in Malaysia? Lomas, IANS: Hello sir, I am Lomas from IANS. My question is from when we expect the new visa regime for Indian travelling to Malaysia to be implemented? Add-on question: what is the status of integration of UPI and PAYNET? Aradhana, Times of India: Thank you. I am Aradhana from Times of India. I have two questions. One is on the settlement of trade. Talks, I think, are happening between Bank Negara and RBI. Is there any timeline for that? And how soon do we expect that to happen? And second would be that Malaysian side has requested some air traffic rights on the civil aviation, there has been talk about that. Could you enlighten us more on this, please? Thank you. Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East): Thank you very much. Let me start with the UPI linkage. UPI linkage is something that we've been discussing for a while. It involves a number of technical steps. It needs multiple banks to be brought on board on both sides. It also needs some kind of, you know, software alignment on the two sides. And, it needs a number of point-of-sale machines to be brought on board and some kind of collaboration with merchants on both sides so that tourists and other visitors can take advantage of this linkage. I used to be posted in Singapore, and I saw this whole process happen when we linked UPI with Singapore's PayNow. It took about a year for us to get that done. But, now I know for sure that it is working extremely well. The main purposes are to help tourists who come and shop in the partner country, and for workers to send their remittances. There are of course safeguards built into it to make sure that it is meant to address people who actually need this, and therefore initially there are some restrictions on the amounts that can be transferred. So, all of those safeguards are built in. So once the technical steps get completed, it will be operationalized. I also understand that there is a broader project, you know, this is a point-to-point, each country has to connect with the other. There is a broader project for multi-point connectivity called Project Nexus, which is also something that India, Singapore, Malaysia, and a few other countries in the region are working on. That will give you direct connectivity from one country to all the other countries which are part of Project Nexus, but that's some distance away. So that will make it even better than the existing point-to-point payment linkages. Ultimately, using QR codes like we pay in India or in other countries, you will be able to use cross-border payments also. Counter-terrorism, I'm sure you heard our Prime Minister speak about it this morning at the joint press conference. He spoke about the discussions he had with Prime Minister Ibrahim, and he also underlined that on the issue of counter-terrorism, he emphasized that there will be no compromise and there won't be any double standards. What I'd broadly like to emphasize is that we need to see the picture in totality. The Malaysian side has condemned the attacks in Pahalgam, they also condemned the Red Fort attack. We've had an all-party parliament delegation visit Malaysia, and they engaged a broad spectrum of MPs, political parties, think tanks, Indian community, etc., and had an opportunity to explain our position. On counter-terrorism, we've had a joint working group formed on counter-terrorism and they met in December 2025. We also had an NSA-level security dialogue in January 2025 and the Deputy NSAs have also met in August. The Malaysian Deputy NSA was a guest at the NSA's meeting at Colombo Security Conclave. And, we of course have a full para on counter-terrorism in the joint statement which will be issued at the end of the visit. So, there is a lot happening in the area of counter-terrorism, and there is reason to be satisfied that our cooperation is proceeding very well. You asked about the protection of Hindu temples. We had an opportunity in the past to take this up and we understand that the Government of Malaysia has a mechanism in place to resolve such issues, and they have a mechanism in place to address all the issues associated with that. The new visa regime was something that you asked. The visa regimes are already in place. Malaysia has a 30-day visa-free entry for Indian tourists. The e-visa scheme for Malaysian Nationals is already operational in India. As of now, it gets extended on a one-year-by-one-year basis, but to answer your question, yes, it is operational. Local currency settlements between RBI and the Malaysian Central Bank. This is still being discussed. The two regulatory authorities will continue to discuss this. It is a matter of priority, and both the Prime Ministers took the opportunity to express their support for this. So, we will be working very actively in the coming months on this to have this operationalized. On air traffic rights, our Ministry of Civil Aviation is examining the proposal by the Malaysian side for more passengers, more destinations, etc. I don't have anything new to report on this. Given the expanding people-to-people connections, the large number of tourists visiting both sides, there was a broad agreement that we need to enhance connectivity and that more Airlines and flights should be connecting India and Malaysia. The fact that we are going to open a new consulate, Prime Minister Ibrahim announced that it will be in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, and perhaps we will have more connectivity directed towards Sabah also. Thank you. Shailendra Mishra, DD News: Sir, main Shailendra Mishra hoon DD News se. AITIGA ki samiksha ko lekar baat-cheet hui aage badhaya gaya hai. Isko lekar kya kuch pragati hai? Aur dusra sawal sir humne dekha sahyog ke shetron mein semi-conductor par bahut charcha ho rahi hai aur is par ek sahmati bhi hui hai ki hum usmein sahyog ko aage badhaenge to kya kuch is par thoda sa vivran agar aap batayein ki kya kya kuch aage hone wala hai sahyog ke shetra mein. [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, I am Shailendra Mishra from DD News. Discussions regarding the review of AITIGA have been taken forward. What progress has been made on this? And my second question, sir: we have seen that there has been a lot of discussion on semiconductors in the areas of cooperation, and there is also an agreement that we will further strengthen cooperation in this sector. So, could you please provide some details on what is expected to happen next in this area of cooperation? Brij Bhushan, Sadhna: Namaskar sir, main Sadhna Television Group se hoon. Aur mera bas do prashn the sir, jaise Bharat Sarkar ne mujhe lagta hai pichle 11 varshon mein no tolerance niti apnayi hai bhrashtachar ke maamle mein. Aur jaisa ki aapne aaj bataya ki aadarneeya Pradhan Mantri ji aur Malaysia ke Pradhan Mantri ke saath CBI aur yahan ki agency ke saath mein ek MoU sign hua hai. Toh ye maana jaaye ki kuch aise ab aise log jo Bharat ke saath kya unke aap naam ujaagar karenge jiske liye ek khaas niti banayi ja rahi hai? Aur doosra prashn yeh hai ki pichle kuch samay se vipaksh khaas taur se Bharat mein hamare jab bhi koi ghatna hoti hai toh ye maana jaata hai ki ek varg vishesh ke virodh mein kaam kar rahi hai sarkar. Lekin pichle kuch samay se main dekh raha hoon ki aadarneeya Pradhan Mantri ji ki jo yaatrayen hain usmein Islamic deshon mein jis prakaar ka unhe samman aur jis prakaar ke pragatisheel MoU sign ho rahe hain, Malaysia mein bhi aisa hi kuch humein dekhne ko mil raha hai. Toh ye maana jaaye ki jo is tarah ka aarop lagaya jaata tha Bharat sarkar ke upar vipaksh ki taraf se aur doosre logon ki taraf se, ab hum Islamic deshon mein bhi Pradhan Mantri ji ki nitiyon aur videsh niti khaas taur se woh acceptable ho rahi hai. [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Hello sir, I am from the Sadhna Television Group. I have just two questions. First, it seems that over the last 11 years, the Government of India has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against corruption. And as you mentioned today, an MoU has been signed between the CBI and the agency here, in the presence of the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India and the Prime Minister of Malaysia. So, should it be understood that there are certain individuals whose names will now be revealed, and that a special policy is being prepared for those who are involved in such cases connected to India? And my second question is that in recent times, the oppositionespecially in Indiaoften claims that whenever any incident takes place, it is assumed that the government is working against a particular community. However, over the past few months, I have noticed that during the Hon'ble Prime Minister's visits, he has been receiving great respect in Islamic countries, and several progressive MoUs are being signed. We are seeing something similar in Malaysia as well. So, can it be said that the kind of allegations made against the Government of India by the opposition and others are now being disproved, and that the Hon'ble Prime Minister's policies and India's foreign policy, in particular, are also becoming acceptable in Islamic countries? Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East): Aapne AITIGA review ki baat ki thi. AITIGA review abhi chal rahi hai aur naturally AITIGA India-ASEAN level pe hota hai toh agreement consensus ke basis pe achieve hoga. Toh saare ASEAN countries ke saath discussions ho rahe hain. Humara broad objective yeh hai ki hum log overall koi 80% tariff lines pe liberalization achieve karein aur har country level pe bhi minimum 70% tariff line liberalization achieve karein. Usme discussion chal rahe hain, usme least development countries ke liye kuch concessions milenge in terms of threshold level tariff liberalization kitna hona chahiye aur kitna time milna chahiye 70% liberalization se 80% liberalization tak pahunchne ke liye. Rules of origin kaise improve kiya jaaye, product-specific rules kaise banaya jaaye, kai technical issues hain isme jiske upar charcha chal rahi hai. And hopefully, in the next few months humari discussions conclude hongi aur Pradhan Mantri ji ne Malaysian Prime Minister ko shukriya ada kiya ki unhone kaafi support kiya is process mein. Malaysia India ke saath co-chair karta hai ye AITIGA review discussions ko, toh us silsile mein Pradhan Mantri ji ne unko thank kiya ki aapne accha sa help kiya coordinate karne mein aur discussions ko aage badhane mein. [Approximate Translation: Answer in Hindi] You mentioned the AITIGA review. The AITIGA review is currently underway, and naturally, since AITIGA is at the India-ASEAN level, the agreement will be achieved on the basis of consensus. So, discussions are taking place with all ASEAN countries.Our broad objective is to achieve liberalization across around 80% of tariff lines overall, and at the level of each country as well, to achieve a minimum of 70% tariff line liberalization. Discussions are ongoing on this. For the least developed countries, some concessions will be provided in terms of what the threshold level of tariff liberalization should be, and how much time should be given to move from 70% liberalization to 80% liberalization. There are also discussions on how to improve the rules of origin, how to frame product-specific rules, and several technical issues related to this. These matters are being actively discussed. And hopefully, in the next few months, our discussions will conclude. The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to the Malaysian Prime Minister for the strong support provided in this process. Malaysia co-chairs these AITIGA review discussions with India, and in that context, the Prime Minister thanked him for helping coordinate effectively and for taking the discussions forward. Semiconductor ek bohot important area hai aur isko is area mein cooperation ko aage badhane ke liye Malaysia India Digital Council form kiya hai. Woh semiconductor mein bhi discussions ko aage badha raha hai aur baaki kuch areas bhi hain jaise DPI ho, e-governance platforms ho, cyber security, AI, fintech, digital transformation aur jaise abhi bataya tha payment linkages. Aur semiconductor ecosystem mein broadly ye maana jaata hai ki India ke design skills kaafi advanced hain aur Malaysia koi 30-35 years ka manufacturing experience hai unka aur assembly testing aur packaging ke bhi kaafi experience aur expertise hai. Toh humara effort yahi rahega ki in dono ko saath mein joda jaaye aur synergies achieve kiya jaaye. Humara yahi aasha hai ki aage badh kar ye kar paayenge hum log. See, counter-terrorism ke baare mein toh maine kaafi detail mein baat kiya tha. Humara broad approach yeh hai ki we will try and address counter-terrorism in a comprehensive way. Transnational crimes, people smuggling ya human trafficking jo bola jaata hai, all kinds of, you know, transnational crimes and terrorism-related matters, violent extremism sab ko address karne ke liye National Security Dialogue hota hai. And iske kai saare maine bola tha ki Joint Working Group, Deputy NSA level, Colombo Security Conclave mein multilateral tareeke se bhi discussions ho rahe hain. Toh the approach is very, very comprehensive. Saare crimes usme covered hain aur saare tarah ke threats covered hain, multi-dimensional threats. [Approximate Translation: Answer in Hindi]: Semiconductors are a very important area, and to further strengthen cooperation in this field, the Malaysia-India Digital Council has been formed. It is taking forward discussions on semiconductors, along with several other areas such as DPI, e-governance platforms, cybersecurity, AI, fintech, digital transformation, and as mentioned earlier, payment linkages. In the semiconductor ecosystem, it is broadly believed that India has highly advanced design skills, while Malaysia has around 30-35 years of manufacturing experience, along with significant expertise in assembly, testing, and packaging. So, our effort will be to bring these strengths together and achieve synergies. We hope that we will be able to take this forward in the coming time. As far as counter-terrorism is concerned, I have already spoken about it in detail. Our broad approach is that we will try to address counter-terrorism in a comprehensive manner. Transnational crimes such as people smuggling or human trafficking, all kinds of transnational crimes, terrorism-related matters, and violent extremismthese are all addressed through the National Security Dialogue. And as I mentioned, discussions are also being held through several mechanisms such as the Joint Working Group, at the Deputy NSA level, and multilaterally through platforms like the Colombo Security Conclave. So, the approach is very comprehensive. All crimes are covered under it, and all kinds of threats are coveredmulti-dimensional threats. Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. We come to the close of this briefing, but we still have a few programs which are currently on. We shall keep you updated on those as well. Thank you very much. Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary East: Thank you. Thank you very much for coming. Kuala Lumpur February 08, 2026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister holds official talks with Prime Minister of Malaysia India - Press Information Bureau Prime Minister's Office Posted On: 08 FEB 2026 11:19AM by PIB Delhi Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was today received by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Perdana Putra complex and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Thereafter, the Leaders met in restricted and delegation-level formats at Seri Perdana, the official residence of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The leaders held wide-ranging discussions and agreed to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between the two countries in 2024. They recalled the age-old India-Malaysia ties which underpin the partnership and the close people-to-people bonds. The leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including priority sectors such as trade, investment, defence, security, maritime, clean energy, infrastructure, start-ups, agriculture, education, health, Ayurveda, tourism and cultural linkages. They also discussed enhancing cooperation in emerging areas such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. The leaders appreciated the steady progress in digital cooperation between the two countries through the bilateral Digital Council and welcomed the agreement between UPI and Pay-net to enhance fintech collaboration. Prime Minister Modi called for strengthening youth linkages through parliamentary and university exchanges. In this context, he welcomed the ongoing cooperation between Nalanda University in India and Universiti Malaya, and IIT Madras and Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia. He noted that the opening of India India's first Consulate in Malaysia would strengthen commercial and people-to-people ties. The two leaders exchanged perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including global governance reforms, the Indo-pacific and the growing India-ASEAN partnership. Prime Minister called for the AITIGA review to be completed at the earliest. Prime Minister also took the opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for Malaysia's successful Chairship of ASEAN in 2025. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed his good wishes and support for India's Presidency of the BRICS in 2026. Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the Red Fort blast, and called for continued close cooperation in counter-terrorism. Following the talks, several important bilateral agreements, including on digital payments, security cooperation, semiconductors, health and medicine, disaster management, combating corruption, audio-visual co-production, technical and vocational education, UN peacekeeping cooperation and social security for Indian workers were exchanged. Malaysia also completed all procedures for its accession to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Full list of MoUs/ agreements exchanged may be seen here.[Link] The 10th India-Malaysia CEO Forum was held on 07 February 2026, on the margins of the visit of Prime Minister. The outcome document of the Forum was received by both sides. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hosted a luncheon banquet in honor of Prime Minister. Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his gracious hospitality and invited him to visit India. **** MJPS/ST (Release ID: 2225062) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address English rendering of Prime Minister's address during delegation level talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim India - Press Information Bureau Prime Minister's Office Posted On: 08 FEB 2026 11:41AM by PIB Delhi My friend, Prime Minister, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you. The way my delegation and I were welcomed, and the manner in which you presented the essence of Malaysian life in just a few hours-going beyond traditions and organizing everything so beautifully, will remain etched in my memory forever. For this, I express my deepest appreciation. I have truly experienced what friendship means, its heights and depths, and I am profoundly grateful to you for that. Excellency, It is my privilege that, as Prime Minister, I have had the opportunity to visit Malaysia for the third time, and during your tenure, I am meeting you for the fourth time. This in itself reflects the pace and dynamism of our relationship. Over the past years, the momentum and depth our bilateral ties have achieved are truly inspiring. For your invaluable contribution to this, I sincerely thank you. Today, our cooperation spans across agriculture and manufacturing to clean energy and semiconductors. We are also key partners in skill development and capacity building. Our defense and security collaboration continues to grow stronger. Excellency, I once again warmly congratulate you on ASEAN's successful chairmanship. We are confident that with Malaysia's support, our relations with ASEAN will deepen further and expand in scope. Excellency, The true strength of our relationship lies in the people-to-people ties. Nearly three million citizens of Malaysian origin with Indian roots serve as a living bridge between our nations. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet with the diaspora alongside you. It was a very special experience. I witnessed the deep respect and affection they hold for you, which filled me with pride. In our fight against terrorism, the support of friendly nations is of immense importance. Excellency, we firmly believe that the prosperity of India and Malaysia is interconnected. In today's global environment of instability, as maritime neighbors, it is essential that India and Malaysia harness the full potential of their relationship. The core message of my visit today is crystal clear: India wishes to elevate its partnership with Malaysia to new heights, expanding and deepening cooperation in every sphere. Once again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you and your entire team for the warm and splendid welcome accorded to me and my delegation. *** MJPS/VJ/ST (Release ID: 2225064) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran will not negotiate over its missiles: Araghchi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Iran will not negotiate over its missile program, describing it as a purely defensive matter. Speaking in an interview with Al Jazeera, Araghchi said Iran's recent talks with Washington marked "a good starting point," but emphasized that there is still a long way ahead for confidence-building. He underlined that the negotiations held a day earlier were indirect and limited exclusively to the nuclear issue. "The issue of banning enrichment is not negotiable from Iran's point of view," the foreign minister said, adding that uranium enrichment is Iran's right and must continue. "They were not able to eliminate Iran's capabilities in this field even through bombing," he said. At the same time, Araghchi said Iran is ready to reach a reliable agreement regarding enrichment. Addressing Iran's missile program, Araghchi reiterated, "Neither now nor in the future can negotiations be held over missiles - because this is a defensive issue." He also stressed that Iran's nuclear file can only be resolved through negotiations. The foreign minister also addressed Iran's response to any potential US attack, saying, "If Iran is attacked, we will target US bases in the region." He made clear that Iran would not attack neighboring countries, drawing a clear distinction "between attacking bases and attacking neighboring states." Araghchi further noted that the possibility of war always exists, adding that Iran is prepared for such a scenario. The new round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US began on Friday morning in Muscat with the mediation of the Sultanate of Oman and concluded several hours later. During the talks, the Iranian and US negotiating teams conveyed a set of views, considerations, and approaches to one another through Oman's foreign minister. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PGCC welcomes Iran-US talks in Oman IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Secretary-General of the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi has welcomed the new round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States in Oman. According to Kuwaiti newspaper "Al-Jarida", Al Budaiwi expressed hope that the results of these talks would contribute to maintaining stability and security in the region. Oman's hosting of these talks is a valuable initiative indicating the country's constructive role in supporting regional and international understanding and dialogue, he added. He also hoped that these consultations would lead to positive outcomes that help enhance peace, solidify the foundations of security and stability in the region, secure common interests, and strengthen the environment for cooperation and development. The new round of nuclear talks between Iran and the US was held on Friday in Muscat with mediation of the Sultanate of Oman and concluded several hours later. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Iranian national TV after leading the Iranian negotiating team in nuclear and sanctions relief talks with a US delegation in Muscat earlier on Friday that the talks were "a good start," adding that the continuation of the talks depends on consultations with the respective capitals. 9376**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran-US talks show failure of Israeli plan: Hezbollah official IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- A senior member of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement says the resumption of negotiations between Iran and the United States on the nuclear issue and sanctions removal is a testimony to the complete failure of Israeli plots against Iran. Mahmoud Qamati, Deputy Chairman of Hezbollah's Political Council, made the remarks at a ceremony for the National Dialogue Party in Baalbek city in Lebanon's Beqaa Valley on Sunday. Referring to the Iran-US talks in Oman on Friday, Qamati said Tehran, by insisting on its positions, determined the venue and framework of the negotiations, thwarting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's sinister plans. The remarks came almost a week after Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem warned against any new aggression against Iran, stressing that the Lebanese resistance movement will not remain silent in the face of attacks on the Islamic Republic. "Iran is the crown jewel of the world. It will endure and can defeat the United States and Israel in the confrontation currently underway," Sheikh Qassem said, in reference to repeated military threats from Washington and the Tel Aviv regime. 4399**4353 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armed Forces ready to confront 'any level of threats', commander says IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- The Commander of the Air Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Brigadier General Bahman Behmard, says that the Armed Forces are ready to confront any level of threats with unwavering determination and resolve. Brigadier General Behmard made the remarks during a Sunday meeting with commanders and personnel from the Army Air Force and the Air Defense Force, which was attended by Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chairman of the Chief of Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, to commemorate Air Force Day. Behmard emphasized that, despite facing equipment and technological sanctions as well as intense hard and soft warfare, the Army Air Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran remains undeterred by the Western narrative that portrays a division between an advanced West and a backward Iran. He added that the Air Force, built on the principles of agility and deterrence, is fully capable of responding to both regional and extra-regional threats. Elsewhere in his remarks, Brigadier General Behmard referred to the Air Force's actions during the 12-day imposed war, emphasizing, "During the 12-day imposed war, without any fear of enemy attacks, the Air Force not only carried out scramble missions and air patrols, but also conducted offensive unmanned operations, executing one of the largest aerial strikes against the targets of the fake Zionist regime in the shortest possible time." 3266**4353 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran closely monitoring enemy, ready for decisive response: Army chief IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- The commander-in-chief of Iran's Army says the armed forces are closely monitoring the enemy and stand fully prepared to deliver a decisive response to any act of aggression. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting between a group of Air Force commanders, officers, and personnel and the chief of staff of the armed forces on Sunday, Major General Amir Hatami said vigilance and readiness remain a top priority. The meeting was held to mark the Army Air Force Day. "We are closely monitoring the enemy and are ready to respond decisively to any mischief," Hatami said. Hatami noted that the Army Air Force has continued on a path of growth and progress, adding that during the 12-day imposed war, it carried out all its missions with courage and honor. He said the steadfast resistance of the armed forces ultimately forced the enemy to submit and request a ceasefire. Addressing Iran's adversaries, the Army chief warned against any new miscalculation. "We hope the enemy does not make another mistake, but if it does, the Army Air Force will certainly play a major role in responding," he said. Commenting on the presence of US warships in the region, Hatami said such deployments are nothing new and have been repeated many times since the victory of the Islamic Revolution. He stressed that Iran's duty is to maintain full readiness, monitor all enemy movements, and remain prepared for a firm response. 4354**7129 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fresh Iran-US talks differ from pre war rounds: FM Araghchi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that the current round of nuclear talks with the United States differs fundamentally from negotiations held before the 12-day war in June 2025, citing lessons learned from both diplomacy and conflict over the past year. Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the first national congress on foreign policy and the history of foreign relations in Tehran on Sunday, Araghchi said Iran entered the talks with a full understanding of past experiences, describing the first session in Muscat as largely exploratory. The first meeting was mainly a test of seriousness and trust, Araghchi said, adding that both sides were assessing whether the other was genuinely prepared to pursue a negotiated solution. He stressed that negotiations were limited strictly to the nuclear issue and would remain so if talks continued. The results of Friday's discussions are under review, and a decision on future rounds will be made based on assessments in Tehran and Washington, he noted. Araghchi acknowledged mixed signals from the US, saying some indications suggested seriousness, while the continuation of certain sanctions and military activities raised doubts about Washington's intentions. All these signals will be evaluated together, he said. The foreign minister downplayed the importance of the format of the talks, mediated by Oman's foreign minister, saying indirect negotiations were common in international relations and posed no obstacle to reaching an agreement. What matters is the content, not the format, he emphasized, adding that real obstacles lie in unrealistic demands and excessive claims. Araghchi said Iran was prepared to consider confidencebuilding measures within its nuclear program, provided they were matched by tangible sanctions relief. Details, he said, would be addressed during negotiations. He noted that the time and venue of the next round had not been finalized and could change, as in previous rounds, but said talks would remain indirect. Highlighting a key difference from the 2013-2015 negotiations that led to the 2015 nuclear deal, Araghchi said regional countries were now playing a more active supportive role through consultations, including Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan. He said China and Russia had also been kept informed. Araghchi highlighted that Iran would not accept demands for zero enrichment, calling uranium enrichment a nonnegotiable national achievement. This has become a matter of national pride, he said, adding that missile and regional issues were not, and had never been, on the agenda. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran not intimidated by US military posture in region: Araghchi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran is not intimidated by the United States' military posture in the region, stressing that the Islamic Republic pursues diplomacy from a position of strength while remaining fully prepared to defend itself. Speaking on Sunday at the National Congress on the Foreign Policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Araghchi said, "Today, their military posture in our region does not frighten us. We are people of diplomacy, and we are also people of war; people of war not in the sense that we seek war, but rather that we are prepared for war so that no one dares to wage war against us." "We are people of diplomacy because we are people of logic, because we have something to say and we have logic," he added. Addressing Iran's nuclear program, the foreign minister said the country has paid a heavy price to maintain a peaceful nuclear program and enrichment capabilities, a cost he said corresponds to national needs. He described enrichment and the nuclear program as essential for Iran's requirements in multiple fields, including agriculture and healthcare, and necessary for future nuclear fuel needs and the operation of nuclear power plants. Araghchi said Iran's insistence on enrichment is rooted not only in practical needs but also in independence and dignity. "Why have we insisted, and do we insist, so strongly on enrichment and are not willing to give it up, even if war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to tell us what we should have or should not have," he said, calling the issue a matter of rejecting domination. Further clarifying Iran's position, he said, "This is my right to carry out enrichment, and according to the law, it is up to me whether to exercise this right or not." He added that Iran is ready to address concerns through dialogue. "If you are worried, we are ready to address concerns; if there are questions, we will answer them; if there is no trust, we will build trust. But no one has the right to say 'you must not have something simply because I want it that way,'" he said. Araghchi said diplomacy is the only viable path to resolving questions surrounding Iran's peaceful nuclear program, noting that other approaches have failed. "They bombed our facilities, but they did not achieve the result they wanted. Knowledge cannot be destroyed by bombing; technology cannot be eliminated," he said, adding that negotiation is unavoidable. He said talks will succeed only if Iran's rights are respected. "We do not want anyone to recognize our right; our right already exists. We want our right to be respected," he said, warning that Iran will respond in kind. "If they speak to the Iranian people in the language of respect, we will respond in the language of respect, and if they speak in the language of force, we will respond in the language of force." 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top general: We are ready but seek no regional war IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of Iran's Armed Forces Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said despite being ready, Iran has no intention of starting a war in the region. Speaking in a meeting with a group of commanders and personnel of the Army's Air Force and Air Defense Force on Sunday, Mousavi said although the targets of a regional war would be the aggressors, it would nonetheless set back the region's progress for years, and the US and Israeli regime warmongers will be held responsible. In the past 47 years, Iranian people have witnessed the US' crimes, betrayals, deceptions, bullying, greed, domination-seeking, and inhumane desire for swallowing Iran, which has made this generation more serious, determined, capable, and resolute in standing against this wicked enemy, he added. Earlier on February 2, 2026, Mousavi had stressed that the Islamic Republic was fully prepared to confront and gave a revengeful blow to the enemy, in case of any military mischief against the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Stating that the escalation in the region will have grave consequences for the US and its allies, he emphasized that the Iranian forces only think of victory, without any fear of the enemy's rumbling and apparent arrogance. The Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces noted that Iran has proven over 47 years that it cannot be swallowed and suffocated, adding that those who have been blowing the trumpet for several months and promoting the proposition of a "weak Iran" are now forced to either retract their words or receive a slap from Iranian power. 9376**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pezeshkian: Iran's nuclear logic based on rights enshrined in NPT IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- President Masoud Pezeshkian says recent Iran-US talks, held with the follow-up of friendly regional governments, marked "a step forward," stressing that Iran's nuclear logic is based on rights enshrined in the Non-Proliferation Treaty. In a message posted on X on Sunday, Pezeshkian wrote that "dialogue has always been our strategy for peaceful settlement," adding that "our logic in the nuclear issue is the rights enshrined in the Non-Proliferation Treaty." He underlined that the Iranian nation "has always responded to respect with respect, but does not tolerate the language of force." The new round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US began on Friday morning in Muscat with the mediation of the Sultanate of Oman and concluded several hours later. During the talks, the Iranian and US negotiating teams conveyed a set of views, considerations, and approaches to one another through Oman's foreign minister. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran closely monitoring enemy, ready to give 'decisive' response to any malicious act: Army chief Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 2:09 PM Iran's top army commander says all enemy movements are under close surveillance, vowing a decisive response to any malicious act. Iranian Army's Chief Commander Major General Amir Hatami made the remarks on the sidelines of a meeting with commanders and personnel of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Air Force on Sunday. He said the Air Force carried out its missions with courage during the 12-day Israeli-American war last June, forcing the enemy to surrender and ultimately request a ceasefire. He emphasized that the force used the experience gained during that war to reach a high level of preparedness proportionate to current threats and conditions. Hatami warned the enemies "not to make a new mistake", saying that in that case, the Air Force will certainly play a major role in giving a response. He noted that the presence of US warships in the region is nothing new, stressing the importance of maintaining the country's combat readiness. The top commander said the Iranian nation and armed forces would strongly defend the country's independence and territorial integrity. Israel launched the unprovoked war on June 13 last year while Iran was engaged in nuclear talks with the US, which also joined the aggression by striking Iranian nuclear sites. In response, Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories and at Al-Udeid, the largest US military installation in West Asia. Iran has since moved to enhance both its defensive and offensive capabilities. The region is once again bracing for another potential military confrontation after the United States deployed air and naval forces to the region and threatened to attack the Islamic Republic. Iranian officials have warned that any US attack would prompt an immediate response and could ignite a regional war. In a stark warning on Saturday, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi warned that any adventurist act against the Islamic Republic will bring "strategic defeat" to enemies and spread war across the entire region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran pursues diplomacy while standing ready for war: FM Araghchi Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 10:47 AM Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Iran has always pursued the path of diplomacy while at the same time maintaining its readiness for any war. He made the remarks at the National Congress on the Islamic Republic's Foreign Policy in Tehran on Sunday, two days after Iran and the United States held indirect nuclear talks in Oman following weeks of escalating tensions caused by the US war rhetoric against Iran. "We are a man of diplomacy, we are also a man of war; not in the sense that we seek war, but ... we are ready to fight so that no one dares to fight us," he said. Currently, he added, the foremost principle of Iran's foreign policy is dignity, which means preserving independence, negating domination and defending the country's sovereignty. Araghchi further emphasized that Iran's response depends on the tone adopted by others toward the country, saying diplomacy will be met with the same language, as it is the case with the use of force and the language of respect. Meanwhile, he expressed Tehran's readiness to resolve ambiguities about its peaceful nuclear program, noting that diplomacy is the only way to do as other paths have not yielded results. "They (the enemies) bombed our facilities, but they failed to achieve the result they wanted. Knowledge cannot be destroyed by bombing; technology cannot be destroyed. There is technology and there is knowledge, so there is no choice but to negotiate," he said. Additionally, in his remarks, the top diplomat stressed that Iran's official right to the peaceful nuclear energy program exists and that the country wants its right to be respected. "I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran's power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressures from others," Araghchi said. "They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb. Our atomic bomb is the power to say no to the great powers. The secret of the Islamic Republic's power is to say no to the powers." Meanwhile, the foreign minister referred to the illegal US-Israeli aggression against Iran that killed at least 1,064 people between June 13 and 27, 2025. He said the war would have remained a stain in Iranian history if the nation had not resisted the enemies. "The indomitability of the Iranian people had to be proven, and this was proven in the 12-day war. Those who ... tweeted "unconditional surrender" on the third day of the war... sent a message of "unconditional ceasefire" on the 12th day. Why? Because we were not afraid of war and resisted," he pointed out. The Iran-US indirect negotiations came at a time when the region is once again bracing for another potential military confrontation after the United States deployed air and naval forces to the region and threatened to attack the Islamic Republic. Araghchi described the Muscat talks as a "good start," adding that both sides intend to continue the discussions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pezeshkian: Iran's nuclear logic rooted in rights enshrined in NPT; nation rejects language of force Iran Press TV Sunday, 08 February 2026 9:05 AM President Masoud Pezeshkian has hailed the new round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States as a "step forward," emphasizing that Tehran's rationale concerning the issue is based on the rights enshrined in the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). "The Iran-US talks, which were held in light of requests from friendly governments in the region, were a step forward. Dialogue has always been our strategy for a peaceful resolution. Our logic in the nuclear issue centers on the rights enshrined in the NPT," Pezeshkian wrote in a post published on the social media platform X on Sunday. He added that the Iranian nation has always responded to the language of respect reciprocally, yet it never endures the language of force. A new round of Iran-US nuclear negotiations, mediated by Oman, ended in the Omani capital on Friday after several hours of indirect talks. The discussions, which kicked off in the morning, were facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. The negotiating delegations of Iran and the US exchanged a range of viewpoints, considerations, and approaches through the top Omani diplomat. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has described the talks as a good start overall, saying that Iran's positions were clearly conveyed and its concerns were transferred to the US negotiators. On the nuclear front, Iran insists on its legal right to enrich uranium on its own soil, describing the issue as a red line in the talks. From Tehran's perspective, any potential technical measures can only be considered within a framework that recognizes this right, and any preconditions beyond it would be seen as a sign of bad faith by the other side. Iran had held five rounds of talks on a replacement for the 2015 nuclear deal prior to the US-Israeli airstrikes on the country and its nuclear facilities in mid-June. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Insistent On Uranium Enrichment As US Navy Flotilla Sails In Arabian Sea By RFE/RL February 08, 2026 Iran's foreign minister insisted on his country's right to enrich uranium, striking a defiant note as a US naval strike force sailed in regional waters amid weeks of unprecedented domestic turmoil inside Iran. Abbas Araqchi's comments followed talks between US and Iranian officials in Oman over the fate of Iran's nuclear programs. Tehran says its programs are peaceful in nature, aimed at generating electricity; Washington and other countries suspect Tehran is striving to build an atomic weapon. "Zero enrichment can never be accepted by us," Araqchi was quoted as saying on February 8. "Hence, we need to focus on discussions that accept enrichment inside Iran while building trust that enrichment is and will stay for peaceful purposes." "Iran's insistence on enrichment is not merely technical or economic [...] it is rooted in a desire for independence and dignity," he said. "No one has the right to tell the Iranian nation what it should or should not have." The talks, which took place in Oman, came amid an American military buildup in the Middle East. Tensions have spiked in recent weeks as Iran has been roiled by unprecedented street protests in Tehran and other cities. Authorities have brutally cracked down on the demonstrations -- the biggest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution -- and rights groups say thousands of civilians have been killed. US President Donald Trump has threatened to attack, citing possible executions of protesters, and saying "help is on its way." He ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and a flotilla of accompanying ships to the region. In June, the United States attacked Iranian nuclear facilities at the end of a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. In a social media post on February 7, President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the Oman talks were a "step forward" and that Tehran wanted its rights under international treaty to be respected. Trump also praised the talks, saying "Iran looks like it wants to make a deal very badly." Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, said it appeared that the Oman talks didn't fail, and neither side walked away from negotiations. "Maybe they felt enough common ground or that both sides put some concessions on the table that were attractive enough for both sides to continue the talks," he told RFE/RL's Radio Farda. Following the Oman talks, the US State Department announced new sanctions on Iran's oil exports, targeting 15 entities and 14 shadow fleet vessels. Netanyahu To Meet Trump Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, will meet with Trump in Washington on February 11 to discuss "negotiations with Iran." Netanyahu has consistently urged Trump and previous US presidents to take a hard line with bitter rival Iran. Netanyahu last month said Israel would hit back if attacked by Tehran with a "force Iran has never seen." On February 7, White House envoy Steve Witkoff, who headed the negotiations in Oman, visited the Abraham Lincoln along with the head of US Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper. "Today [we] met with the brave sailors and Marines aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, her strike group, and Carrier Air Wing 9 who are keeping us safe and upholding President Trump's message of peace through strength," Witkoff saidon social media. He was joined by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, who has played a central role in negotiations as well. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-lincoln-carrier- witkoff-negotiations-nuclear/33672170.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Testing Trust in Iran-US Nuclear Talks as Both Sides Assess Intentions - Araghchi Sputnik News 20260208 Iran and the US are inclined to continue nuclear negotiations, but the next steps will depend on decisions made in Tehran and Washington, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. The February 6 talks in Muscat were exclusively focused on nuclear issues, with no discussions on other topics, he emphasized. While both sides are generally open to continuing the process, Iran remains firm on its stance: negotiations will only cover the nuclear issue. He described the talks as exploratory, aimed at testing trust between the sides. Araghchi also noted that the continuation of certain sanctions and military movements could influence perceptions of seriousness as both nations assess each other's intentions. Iran will not accept zero enrichment, focusing instead on ensuring that its nuclear activities remain peaceful, Araghchi stressed. Iran keeps Russia and China in the loop on how its nuclear progress with the United States are progressing, Araghchi said. "We continue to hold consultations with China and Russia. China and Russia are two friendly countries and our strategic partners. Yesterday, my deputy met with the ambassadors of China and Russia and informed them about the details and progress of the negotiations. We will keep consulting them," Araghchi was quoted as saying by the IRNA news agency. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address FM Sa'ar hosts Paraguay's FM Ruben Ramirez Lezcano in Jerusalem Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs FM Sa'ar: "The attempt by the most extreme regime in the world to obtain the most dangerous weapon in the world - a nuclear weapon - is a clear danger to peace in the region and the world." Type: Press Releases Topic: Foreign Policy Publish Date: 08.02.2026 Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar today (Sunday, 8 February 2026) hosted Minister of Foreign Affairs of Paraguay Ruben Ramirez Lezcano at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem. Following their meeting, the two delivered statements to the press. FM Sa'ar on Gaza: "We both support the Trump Plan in Gaza. Hamas must be disarmed and Gaza must be demilitarized. This is at the heart of the plan and must not be compromised on. This is necessary for the security and stability of the region - and also for a better future for the people of Gaza themselves." FM Sa'ar on Iran: "I praise President Pena's decision in April 2025, to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terror organization. Recently, the European Union and Ukraine did so too, and I commend also these steps. The Iranian regime is murdering its own people. It destabilizes the Middle East. It spreads terror to other continents, including Latin America. The attempt by the most extreme regime in the world to obtain the most dangerous weapon in the world - a nuclear weapon - is a clear danger to peace in the region and the world. The huge amount of long-range ballistic missiles that the Iranian regime seeks to produce endangers Israel - but not just her. The regime already used missiles against other countries in the Middle East. European states are also threatened by the range of these missiles. Lebanon cannot realize its sovereignty because of the presence of the Hezbollah terror army - funded by Iran - on its own soil. This is also the case in Yemen and Iraq. On their soil too - there are terror armies and armed militias - funded and armed by the Iranian regime." FM Sa'ar's full remarks: "I want to welcome my dear friend, Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano, to Jerusalem. I thank you for hosting me in Asuncion last November. I appreciate the honor I received of addressing a joint session of Paraguay's National Assembly. Your mutual visit today - and our close, ongoing dialogue - reflects the special bond between Israel and Paraguay. Paraguay is one of Israel's greatest friends in the world. It has a clear moral dimension in its foreign policy. We commend President Pena for his decision to move Paraguay's embassy back to Jerusalem in December 2024. We appreciate Paraguay's consistent, strong, moral support for Israel in multilateral forums. Thank you for standing clearly by the truth. We appreciate the moral decision by Paraguay's Chamber of Deputies to adopt IHRA's definition of antisemitism. Paraguay widened its terror organization designation to include the "political" wings of Hamas, and Hezbollah. I also praise President Pena's decision in April 2025, to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terror organization. Recently, the European Union and Ukraine did so too, and I commend also these steps. The Iranian regime is murdering its own people. It destabilizes the Middle East. It spreads terror to other continents, including Latin America. The attempt by the most extreme regime in the world to obtain the most dangerous weapon in the world - a nuclear weapon - is a clear danger to peace in the region and the world. The huge amount of long-range ballistic missiles that the Iranian regime seeks to produce endangers Israel - but not just her. The regime already used missiles against other countries in the Middle East. European states are also threatened by the range of these missiles. Lebanon cannot realize its sovereignty because of the presence of the Hezbollah terror army - funded by Iran - on its own soil. This is also the case in Yemen and Iraq. On their soil too - there are terror armies and armed militias - funded and armed by the Iranian regime. * Dear Minister, We both support the Trump Plan in Gaza. Hamas must be disarmed and Gaza must be demilitarized. This is at the heart of the plan and must not be compromised on. This is necessary for the security and stability of the region - and also for a better future for the people of Gaza themselves. * Dear Minister, Mi Amigo, In December 2024, you came with President Pena to open Paraguay's embassy in Jerusalem. It's an honor to welcome you back here, to David's Capital. This is a long-term strategic partnership between both our states. We're strengthening it across many fields. We recently signed an MOU on security cooperation. In my visit to Asuncion, I was accompanied by a business-economic delegation. We're seeing the results, including mutual visits by business leaders and more economic initiatives. We want to invest in each other's economies and I know, Minister, we'll get a lot more done. Muchas Gracias!" NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister's Office Announcement Israel - Prime Minister's Office Type: Media Statements Government: The 37th Government Publish Date: 08.02.2026 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet with US President Donald Trump this Wednesday in Washington, and will discuss with him the negotiations with Iran. The Prime Minister believes any negotiations must include limitations on ballistic missiles and a halting of the support for the Iranian axis. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan's ruling coalition poised to secure majority in snap election; expert warns of political prospects of further right-wing shift Global Times By Xu Keyue and Xing Xiaojing Published: Feb 09, 2026 12:21 AM The Japanese lower house election concluded voting on Sunday evening followed by exit polls jointly conducted by the Yomiuri Shimbun, NHK, and Nippon TV, which showed that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) had secured majority of the 465 total seats (233 seats) on its own. Together with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), the ruling coalition is projected to exceed 300 seats, according to the polls. Although the election result has not been formally released, Chinese experts told the Global Times on Sunday this election will likely shape Japan's future policy direction, marking a return to a political landscape characterized by "one dominant party and multiple weaker ones" with the right-wing conservative faction further entrenching its dominance, while traditional center-left forces will face increasing marginalization, according to the expert. Rightward shift According to the exit polls conducted by the Yomiuri Shimbun, NHK, and Nippon TV, the opposition's Centrist Reform Alliance, formed by the Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito party before the election, underperformed and is projected to lose a significant number of its pre-election 167 seats. By launching a snap election, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sought to capitalize on her initial high approval ratings, compressing the opposition's response time to translate popular support into parliamentary seats, thereby consolidating her political foundation, Xiang Haoyu, a distinguished research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times on Sunday. The result also reflects the inevitable result of the pronounced rightward shift in Japan's political climate and public sentiment, he noted. Xiang noted that the Centrist Reform Alliance, aiming to consolidate moderate political forces and attract broader support from centrist voters, could have achieved a synergistic effect where "1+12" theoretically. However, its failure to deliver the expected results in practice stems fundamentally from the lack of deep and effective integration within this rushed and forced coalition. As the LDP is poised to win the House of Representatives election, does that mean the "black money" scandal and its ties to the controversial Unification Church can be brushed aside? According to a report by Japan's Yahoo News, editor-in-chief of the Japanese election media "Election Net" Kunikazu Suzuki stated in a program on Fuji TV that in previous cabinets, such incidents would have dealt a heavy blow. However, in this election, issues like political reform are far from the focus of voters, with less than 10 percent explicitly listing them as their most important policy or core concern. Suzuki said that one reason these negative messages failed to make an impact lies in the distinct characteristics of the group firmly supporting the Takaichi cabinet. When media reports contradict their own views, this group tends to perceive the media as biased. This "cognitive tendency of hostility toward the media" accounts for 70 percent of Takaichi's supporters, according to Suzuki. Lu Hao, head of the Strategy Section, Institute of Japanese Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Sunday that Japanese voters are currently highly concerned about rising prices and livelihood issues. As a result, both the ruling party and the opposition have actively proposed tax reduction policies. Voters still hold expectations for the Takaichi administration's promised economic stimulus and livelihood support measures. At the same time, the administration has actively catered to and stirred populist sentiments to consolidate her right-wing base, generating significant public opinion momentum and actively swaying centrist voters. Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan in November last year strained China-Japan relations, leading to sustained tensions between the two countries. Recently, during her election campaign, she explicitly expressed her desire to revise the pacifist constitution and include the Self-Defense Forces in its provisions. Asahi Shimbun stated in a commentary that these measures are of critical importance and must not be hastily advanced without thorough nationwide discussion. In a world where power politics prevails, whether Japan can continue to uphold its stance as a peaceful nation is now facing a severe test, the article commented. 'Diplomatic fatigue' Recently, leaders from several countries including the UK, Canada, South Korea, and France have made visits to China. In a commentary, Asahi Shimbun described Japan's current diplomatic approach toward China as "diplomatic fatigue." The article noted that despite disagreements with China, these countries continue to uphold dialogue and maintain stable bilateral relations. In contrast, Japan, as a neighboring country, lacks communication with China, and mutual visits between leaders have come to a standstill - a situation whose severity cannot be overlooked. "The strategic adventurism and opportunism of Japan's right-wing forces may further intensify, and the confrontational nature of its China policy could become more pronounced after the elction," Xiang said. Hiroshi Onishi, an emeritus professor at Japan's Keio University, told the Global Times on Sunday that the Takaichi administration emerged amid the long-term decline of the Liberal Democratic Party and is essentially implementing policies aimed at pleasing voters at all costs. Precisely for this reason, the administration has pursued fiscal policies that disregard fiscal discipline while resorting to anti-China measures to incite nationalismboth policies are ultimately destined to collapse. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff, paid an official visit to Malaysia and called on the leadership of the Royal Malaysian Navy. Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan Rawalpindi - February 08, 2026 No PR-42/2026-ISPR Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff, paid an official visit to Malaysia and called on the leadership of the Royal Malaysian Navy. He was received at Royal Malaysian Navy Headquarters by Admiral Tan Sri (Dr.) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, and was accorded a Guard of Honour. Discussions focused on aligning strategic perspectives and enhancing operational cooperation, capacity building, and coordinated responses to maritime security challenges. Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted Pakistan Navy's contributions to regional stability through Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSP) and participation in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). The Chief of Naval Staff also visited Malaysia's National Hydrographic Centre, emphasizing strengthened cooperation with Pakistan's National Hydrographic Office in training, data exchange, and professional collaboration. The visit reaffirmed the enduring Pakistan-Malaysia naval partnership and commitment to future-oriented maritime cooperation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Washington's new arms sales strategy good for Taiwan: U.S. expert ROC Central News Agency 02/08/2026 04:09 PM Washington, Feb. 7 (CNA) A U.S. defense expert has said that Washington's "America First Arms Transfer Strategy" is good for Taiwan but warned that continued delays in passing defense budgets could put Taiwan's status as a priority partner at risk. Michael Hunzeker, an associate professor at George Mason University who studies Taiwan defense issues, said in emailed comments to CNA that "overall, I think that this new strategy is a positive development for Taiwan." Hunzeker was referring to U.S. President Donald Trump's signing of an executive order titled "Establishing an America First Arms Transfer Strategy" on Friday. The presidential action marks a policy shift toward prioritizing U.S. arms sales and transfers to partners with higher defense spending and greater strategic importance, replacing the long-standing first-come, first-served delivery approach. Hunzeker said the policy addresses long-standing inefficiencies in U.S. arms sales, noting that in the past, when multiple allies purchased the same weapons systems, defense contractors did not always produce and deliver them in line with Washington's priorities. He said the US$11 billion arms sales package for Taiwan announced last December was likely negotiated with this approach in mind and that delivery would probably be sped up if the Legislative Yuan approved a budget to pay for it. Hunzeker said Taiwan appears to meet Washington's criteria as a "priority" partner, citing its prominence in U.S. strategic planning and the Lai Ching-te () administration's public commitment to raise Taiwan's defense spending. President Lai has said Taiwan's defense spending is expected to rise to 3.3 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year and that the government aims to increase the benchmark to 5 percent by 2030. Hunzeker said, however, that both the U.S. executive branch and U.S. Congress are "clearly unhappy" that Taiwan's regular defense budget and special defense budget have been blocked in the Legislative Yuan. He said the Trump administration places strong emphasis on defense burden sharing and expects allies and partners to "pull their own weight," warning that Taiwan could be excluded from the priority list if budgets sufficient to cover the arms sales are not approved. U.S. lawmakers raised concerns in recent days over Taiwan's opposition parties blocking a special defense bill totaling NT$1.25 trillion (US$39.56 billion). The Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan's main opposition party, said in response that it supports reasonable arms procurement budgets and asked the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) to accurately convey its position to the U.S. Congress. The AIT represents U.S. interests in Taiwan in the absence of formal diplomatic ties. The KMT said it would immediately review the defense budget with the Taiwan People's Party if the Democratic Progressive Party-led government would budget for pay raises for serving military personnel. (By Elaine Hou and James Thompson) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Soldiers to get new AI capable radios, headsets and tablets with futuristic sensor data Press release British soldiers will be able to make faster, better decisions on the battlefield through thousands of new radios, headsets and tablets. From: Ministry of Defence and Luke Pollard MP Published 8 February 2026 New communications systems will give commanders faster battlefield information and speed up decision-making. MOD awards contract worth up to 86 million to British-based SME for advanced tactical communication systems, such as radios and tablets. Contract creates 12 UK defence industry jobs and builds on successful deployment in Estonia. The contract, worth up to 86 million, has been awarded to UK-based company BlackTree Technologies with the systems rapidly reducing the time it takes for soldiers to receive reconnaissance and intelligence data, boosting lethality and reducing friendly fire incidents. Known as the Dismounted Data System (DDS), the AI capable equipment includes radios, headsets, display tablets, cables, batteries, pouches and antennas. They will provide precise information on surroundings and intelligence, meaning increased clarity on who are enemies and who are comrades. With all soldiers linked to the same network through this equipment, DDS will also be tailored to different scenarios, allowing troops to receive either, or a combination of, voice or visual data, maximising effectiveness across all battlefield situations. The new systems have already been tested by soldiers on deployment in Estonia. The testing, on NATO's eastern flank, saw the visual information element allowing soldiers to be less distracted by loud noises on the battlefield. This follows the government committing to the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War - hitting 2.6% of GDP from 2027 - supporting good jobs and growth in every corner of the nation. Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP said: The ability to receive, share and deploy accurate information is crucial to battlefield advantage, and this state-of-the-art technology will make our soldiers more integrated and more lethal. It will begin rolling out to the British Army this year and with the work delivered by a British-based SME, shows that our move to warfighting readiness is being seized as an opportunity to make defence an engine for growth in the UK. One of the benefits of the new systems are that they have already been tested by soldiers on deployment in Estonia. The testing, on NATO's eastern flank, saw the visual information element allowing soldiers to be less distracted from loud noises on the battlefield. The contract supports this government's commitment to spend more with UK small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), with the work creating 12 new jobs in locations in Tewkesbury, Hereford and Birmingham. The DDS will be delivered to the Army in multiple tranches from September, with the full roll out of equipment set to be complete in 2027. An initial 46 million contact has been made by the Army with BlackTree Technologies, with options for a further 40 million. The contract supports the Chief of the General Staff's ambition to double the British Army's lethality by 2027, and it backs delivery of the Strategic Defence Review to move to warfighting readiness. Head of Tactical Systems, National Armaments Director Group, Brigadier Jeremy Sharpe, said: We are delighted to be building on the successful deployment in Estonia last year and looking forward to working with BlackTree Technologies to bring this game changing capability to more of the British Army. BlackTree founder and Managing Director, Neil Clements-Hill said: BlackTree are excited to be working with the TacSys team to field this cutting-edge technology to the British Army. Waveforms ensure that the Army can operate in the most demanding environments, when nothing else works. From initial experimentation under the DSA programme, through the delivery of Project ASGARD in 2025, and now delivering Dismounted Data System capacity, we have been working closely with the Army for many years and are very happy to continue this close relationship and help ensure that they can achieve their vision of modernising their tactical networks. The MOD is ramping up support for UK SMEs, with the establishment in January of the Defence Office for Small Business Growth, and the spending target of an additional 2.5 billion with UK SMEs through to May 2028, taking total annual MOD spending with SMEs to 7.5 billion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine - Russian strikes on a bus and a maternity hospital (2 February 2026) France - Ministere de l'Europe et des Affaires etrangeres France strongly condemns the increasing number of Russian attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine. Following a strike on a passenger train in Kharkiv that killed five people on 27 January, Russia struck a bus carrying employees of a mine in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on Sunday 1 February, killing 16 people, and a maternity hospital in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. No military aim can justify such atrocities, which constitute further deliberate breaches by Russia of its obligation to respect international humanitarian law. The repeated attacks on the railway network demonstrate Russia's desire to destroy civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, and are part of the same terror approach as the strikes on Ukraine's power grid. These cynical strikes on civilians constitute war crimes. They are a brutal reminder that Russia has embarked on an approach geared to escalation, and their increasing frequency highlights the deliberate nature of Russia's targeting. Following the discussions in Abu Dhabi, they demonstrate that the announcement of a pause in strikes on energy infrastructure in Kyiv is merely another delaying tactic by Moscow aimed once again at rejecting a comprehensive ceasefire and negotiations in good faith. France expresses its wholehearted solidarity with the Ukrainian people, the victims' families and the emergency services mobilized. It will continue its efforts, alongside all its partners, to promote a just, lasting peace and reaffirms its determination to support Ukraine over the long term. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zelensky says US wants a Russia-Ukraine peace deal 'by June'; hasty pressure is not beneficial for talks as territory remains main obstacle: Chinese expert Global Times By GT staff reporters Published: Feb 08, 2026 06:24 PM Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the US is proposing the war be brought to an end before the start of this summer and is likely to apply pressure on the parties in line with that timeline, and suggested the push is linked to US domestic political dynamics, likely referring to the midterm elections scheduled for November 2026, The Kyiv Independent reported Saturday. "They say they want to get everything done by June...And they will do everything to end the war. They want a clear schedule of events," Zelensky said in remarks published Saturday by the Presidency, per CNN report. Zelensky's remarks came amid intensified diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. The second round of trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the US in Abu Dhabi was held on February 4-5. Zelensky said that Washington had proposed that Ukrainian and Russian delegations meet in the US, probably in Miami, in a week's time, per CNN. "We have confirmed our participation." Ukraine is currently in a challenging position. As it grapples with the dilemma between territorial concessions and national survival, the Trump administration is expected to maintain maximum pressure on the country - in pursuit of a hasty deal that could provide a major political boost for the midterm elections, Zhang Hong, a research fellow at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times. RT reported that, similar to the first round of talks in January, the recent negotiations in Abu Dhabi were held behind closed doors, with no details shared by either side, other than Russia and the US calling the talks "productive" and "constructive." The latest round of negotiations resulted in an exchange of 314 prisoners of war between Russia and Ukraine, RT reported. "The work continued for two days. It was constructive and at the same time very difficult. It will continue," Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted by TASS, commenting on the trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi. Following the negotiations in Abu Dhabi, Ukraine's position regarding withdrawal from Donbas remains unchanged. Ukraine refuses and intends to "stand its ground," TASS said. "Russia wants our withdrawal from Donbas, while we have said that the most reliable position is to 'stand our ground,'" Zelensky stated, according to TASS. Zelensky also said the US side raised the idea of establishing a free economic zone in in parts of the Donbas. Zelensky said neither Ukraine nor Russia has ever been enthusiastic about the proposal, The Kyiv Independent reported. In the meantime, Zelensky added that Kiev has also seen indications that potential US-Russia bilateral documents could include provisions related to Ukraine, The Kyiv Independent said. Neither the US nor Russia has provided further details regarding the Abu Dhabi negotiations. Zhang observed that, based on their brief statements about the talks, Russia's patience appears to be waning, while the US is acting urgently to expedite an end to the conflict. "If territorial issues cannot be discussed and addressed, then all problems will be impossible to resolve," he noted. He added, "There are expected to be rounds of communication and negotiations from all sides before summer to drive changes in the situation, but a fundamental breakthrough remains unlikely for now." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian 'Glide' Bombs Kill At Least 3 Civilians In Eastern Ukraine Amid Latest Barrage By Serhiy Horbatenko February 08, 2026 KRAMATORSK, Ukraine -- At least three people were killed in overnight Russian strikes that targeted residential buildings in the eastern city of Kramatorsk. The February 8 attacks included heavy "glide" bombs, officials said, weapons that Russia has used to devastate both Ukrainian frontline positions as well as residential areas. Nearly 20 people were injured in the early morning attacks, the National Police said. The Russian bombs blew out nearly all the windows on one of the apartment buildings, and left a debris field of glass, wood, burned-out cars, and tangled playground equipment in the courtyard below. "There's my apartment, third floor. Nothing's left there -- no windows, no doors," one woman, who did not give her name, told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, as snow fell around her. "My family is safe -- my grandmother is 83 and my niece is disabled." "The blast wave shattered all the windows. The doors between the rooms, the fridge. Everything is broken," said another man as he picked through his damaged kitchen. In total, Russia fired more than 400 drones and missile at locations across the country, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. In a post to Telegram, he complained that the Russian weapons continued to be equipped with imported foreign parts and components, as he announced new measures aimed at cutting off supplies of the parts. Along with Slovyansk, Kramatorsk is one of two major cities that Ukraine still controls in the eastern Donetsk region. The two are considered "stronghold cities" that are essential to Ukraine's defenses in the region. Russia has made capturing the entire Donetsk region a strategic priority, a point it has hammered home repeatedly in ongoing peace negotiations brokered by the United States. Throughout this winter, Russia has relentlessly targeted civilian residences across Ukraine, as well as the country's power grid and heating facilities. Millions of people in the capital, Kyiv, and other cities have struggled with electricity or heating outages as unusually bitter cold has gripped the country for weeks. State-run oil-and-gas company Naftogaz said that Russia targeted its facilities in the eastern Poltava region overnight. "This attack was the 19th targeted Russian attack on the [Nafogaz] facilities since the beginning of the year," the company said. Other locations across Ukraine were also hit by aerial attacks overnight on February 8, including the port cities of Kherson and Odesa. The government ordered emergency nationwide power shutdowns on February 7, after earlier Russian strikes, which also hit electricity generation and distribution facilities. For its part, Ukraine has also stepped up the tempo of its drone attacks targeting oil and gas facilities, and energy infrastructure inside of Russia. The attacks have not caused widespread suffering for most Russians, although border regions like Belgorod have seen regular power outages. Zelenskyy defended Ukraine's right to strike Russian energy targets, saying it helped deprive Moscow of export revenues. "We do not have to choose, whether we strike a military target or energy. [Putin] sells this energy. He sells oil. So is it energy, or is it a military target? Honestly, it's the same thing," Zelenskiy said in a post to social media. "He sells oil, takes money, invests in weapons. He kills Ukrainians with these weapons." "We either build weapons and strike their weapons. Or we strike the source where their money is generated and multiplied. And that source is their energy sector...All of this is a legitimate target for us," he wrote. This past week, Kyiv and Moscow concluded two days of US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi. There were no major breakthroughs, however, another signal of how difficult efforts to end the nearly four-year-old war are. Ukrainian and Russian negotiators are reportedly set to meet for a new round of talks in the coming week in the United States. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-bombs- dead-energy-winter/33672540.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address How Russia Is Recruiting Central Asian Women For Its War In Ukraine By Kanymgul Elkeeva and Aigerim Berdibaeva February 08, 2026 Dilbar has languished in pretrial detention for months in the Russian city of Omsk, where she said she was beaten, shocked with a taser, and threatened by prison officers. As she awaits trial on drug-smuggling charges, the 18-year-old Central Asian migrant has been given a stark choice: go to prison for up to 15 years or join Russia's war effort in Ukraine and gain her freedom. The case of Dilbar has put the spotlight on Russia's recruitment of Central Asian women for its nearly four-year war in Ukraine. Russia hosts millions of migrant workers from the former Soviet republics of Central Asia. Thousands of men from Central Asia are believed to have joined Russian forces in Ukraine. Some were lured by offers of lucrative jobs. Others, mainly convicts and detainees, have been forced to join the Russian military. A small number of Central Asian women have also enlisted, although their exact number is unknown. 'Mom, Forgive Me' Dilbar, a citizen of Kyrgyzstan whose name has been changed to protect her identity, could soon be among them. "Mom, forgive me," Dilbar wrote in a recent letter to her mother. "If they give me a longer sentence, I'll go to war. They'll pay me there, and I'll be free in a year." Dilbar was arrested in October, a year after she moved to Russia from the Kyrgyz city of Osh. She was walking with friends in Omsk when she was arrested on drug charges, which she rejects. Human rights activists say Central Asian migrants, including women, are frequently arrested on trumped-up drug charges. Dilbar was told that she can serve as a cook in the Russian military in Ukraine and would receive 2 million rubles (around $26,000) for one year of work, a significant sum for many in Russia, according to her sister who asked not to be named for security reasons. After completing her one-year contract, prison officials promised she would be freed, said Dilbar's sister. Dilbar's sister traveled from Kyrgyzstan to Omsk to attend her court hearings. She said she has pleaded with her sister not to take up the offer to enlist in the Russian military. "We often hear that people who go to Ukraine don't come back alive," Dilbar's sister told RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service. She said their father, also a migrant worker in Russia, enlisted in Moscow's war in 2023 but is missing. Recruiting Convicts, Detainees Russia has recruited tens of thousands of prison inmates to fight in Ukraine in exchange for having their sentences commuted. The move has been aimed at bolstering troop levels amid heavy casualties and avoiding the need for a new mobilization. Russia's Defense Ministry and the private mercenary company Wagner have scoured prisons for recruits. Among those recruited are believed to be hundreds of women -- both Russian citizens and foreigners. Some of the female convicts have been recruited as fighters while others work as cooks, cleaners, nurses, and paramedics. The Russian authorities tried to recruit Gulbarchin, a woman from Kyrgyzstan who is serving a 12-year prison term in the city of Vladimir, outside Moscow. Gulbarchin, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, said prison officials drew up a list of potential recruits for the war, according to a letter she wrote to her family in late 2023. "Everyone with long sentences was included [in the list]," Gulbarchin wrote in the letter, adding that she refused to sign up. Ezgulik, a human rights group based in Uzbekistan, said it has received letters from the relatives of dozens of imprisoned Uzbek women who accuse prison authorities of trying to recruit them for the war in Ukraine. Among them is Umida, a woman whose sister is jailed in Russia. She said she has received letters from her sister revealing the lengths that prison authorities are going to in coercing women to enlist. "They're deprived of food for 10 days to break the prisoners' will and convince them to go to the war," Umida, who only gave her first name, told RFE/RL. "Some girls have committed suicide to avoid being sent to war." 'Fight At The Front' Russian authorities deny the recruitment of women for combat roles, describing their service as voluntary. Russian officials have said that more than 37,500 women serve in the Russian Armed Forces and about 270,000 additional women work in civilian roles in the military. Russia's Defense Ministry has not released data on how many women, especially foreign citizens, have been sent to the front. Mirlan Toktobekov, a Kyrgyz immigration lawyer, told RFE/RL that most Central Asian women recruited by Russia work in support roles, although some do end up in combat roles. "Women can be hired as cooks, medics, nurses, doctors, or other positions," he said. "There are women working in teams repairing military equipment. And there are also those who fight at the front. Their participation is much smaller compared to men, but it exists." Prominent Russian prisoner rights activist Olga Romanova said female prisoners are often duped by recruiters. "There's no Internet in women's prisons," Romanova told RFE/RL. "They only know what's shown on television. They think they'll work as nurses. They don't understand where they're really going." Central Asian governments have repeatedly warned their citizens against taking part in military conflicts abroad, which is a criminal offense punishable by lengthy prison terms. But only a handful of cases have so far reached the courts. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-ukraine-central- asia-kyrgyzstan-women/33671384.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Forces Liberate Sidorovka Settlement in Sumy Region - MoD Sputnik News 20260208 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian armed forces have taken control of the settlement of Sidorovka in the Sumy Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday. "As a result of decisive actions, units of Battlegroup Sever took control of the Sidorovka settlement in the Sumy Region," the statement read. Russia's Battlegroup Zapad have also taken control of the Glushkovka in the Kharkov Region, the ministry said. The Russian military has struck Ukrainian transport infrastructure, fuel and energy facilities used by the Ukrainian armed forces, as well as temporary deployment stations of Ukrainian soldiers and mercenaries across 145 localities, the statement read. Ukraine has lost up to 390 military servicepeople in battles with Russia's Battlegroup Vostok over the past 24 hours, in addition to losses in manpower and equipment on other fronts, the Russian Defense Ministry said. "The enemy has lost up to 390 soldiers, eight armored fighting vehicles, 16 motor vehicles and one Grad multiple rocket launcher," the statement said. Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr has eliminated over 205 Ukrainian servicepeople, a US-made MaxxPro armored fighting vehicle, two pickup trucks, and an artillery gun over the past day, the ministry said. Russia's Battlegroup Zapad has eliminated over 150 Ukrainian soldiers, 12 pickup trucks, and four ammunition depots. In battles with Russia's Battlegroup Sever, Kiev lost up to 210 troops, an armored personnel carrier, 12 motor vehicles, six ammunition depots, and five materiel depots over the past 24 hours, the statement read. Russia's Battlegroup Yug has eliminated over 120 Ukrainian troops, a Kozak armored vehicle, 14 motor vehicles, three field artillery guns, and a materiel depot. Russia's Battlegroup Dnepr battle group has eliminated up to 30 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, and a materiel depot over the past day, the ministry added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Ukraine Is Our Enemy' Orban on Energy Pressure Sputnik News 20260208 Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Ukraine should stop pushing in Brussels to cut Hungary off from cheap Russian energy, warning that "as long as Ukraine does this, Ukraine is our enemy." "Ukrainians need to understand that they must give up their constant demands. In Brussels, they constantly want to undermine Hungary and cut it off from cheap Russian energy," he stated. Orban argued that without Russian oil and gas, household costs in Hungary would rise sharply, citing an average annual utility bill of 250,000 forints, compared with 800,000-1,000,000 in Poland and the Czech Republic. The two countries have cut themselves off from cheap Russian energy. He said anyone claiming Hungary can be cut off from cheap Russian energy while keeping utility costs low is "either stupid or lying," calling such a scenario "simply not possible." Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President Thanked First Responders Working to Deal with the Aftermath of Russian Strikes on Ukrainian CHP and TPP Facilities and to Restore Power Supply President of Ukraine 8 February 2026 - 21:32 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the first responders of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine who are engaged in work at energy facilities and who have distinguished themselves the most over the past week. "Today, it is worth especially recognizing the work of all the first responders who, at any time, in any weather, and under any circumstances - including under shelling - work together with energy workers and with everyone else so that people can live," the Head of State said in his evening address. The President highlighted personnel of the Main Directorate of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Kyiv: Anatolii Kolomiiets, head of a rescue unit of the rescue operations group of the Special-Purpose Emergency Rescue Detachment; Volodymyr Strilchuk and Vasyl Vashchenko, rescuers of the same rescue unit; Yevhen Shepetun, power plant operator of the engineering support unit for emergency response operations; and Mykhailo Chornokalov, commander of the crane and lifting unit of the engineering support unit for emergency response operations. Volodymyr Zelenskyy also thanked employees of the Main Mobile Rapid Response Rescue Center of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine: Oleksandr Kozhara, driver of the engineering support and emergency response unit; Ruslan Dubyk, senior driver of the same unit; Serhii Kovalchuk, head of the emergency rescue unit for emergency response operations; Serhii Hubenko, rescuer of the emergency rescue unit; and Maksym Yepifanov, rescuer-engine operator of the emergency rescue unit. All of them took part in emergency recovery operations during the dismantling and removal of structures at a CHP plant in Kyiv that were destroyed as a result of Russian shelling. This made it possible to restore equipment and put the power generation facility back into operation. At the Main Directorate of the State Emergency Service in the Kyiv region, the personnel involved in work at the Trypilska TPP plant included rescuers Dmytro Tkachenko, Oleksandr Mykoda, and Ivan Khmelnytskyi from the rescue unit of the Special-Purpose Emergency Rescue Detachment; Ivan Tymchenko, commander of a unit of the 46th State Fire and Rescue Station; and Ruslan Plakhtiienko, firefighter of the same station. "Thank you, guys - and thank you to all your colleagues, to each and every person whose work is helping Ukraine withstand these days, this winter," the President emphasized. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Imposed Sanctions on Individuals and Companies Involved in Russia's Military-Industrial Complex and Financial Sector President of Ukraine 8 February 2026 - 10:00 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed decrees enacting decisions of the National Security and Defense Council to impose sanctions on 66 individuals and 62 legal entities. These include citizens and residents of Russia, Hong Kong, Kyrgyzstan, and the United Arab Emirates. The first decree is aimed at limiting the capabilities of Russia's military-industrial complex. In total, it covers 24 individuals and 27 legal entities. These include companies that supply goods used to manufacture components for Russian missiles and drones, which Russia, among other things, used during an attack on Ukraine overnight into Saturday. Without foreign components, such production would be impossible. This is why it is essential to continue strengthening the relevant pressure. The second decree targets the enemy's financial infrastructure and, specifically, those who help Russia circumvent sanctions imposed by Ukraine, the European Union, and the United States. It applies to 42 individuals and 35 legal entities. This package includes, among others, the ecosystem of the A7 cryptocurrency network, through which payments are made for the supply of components used in the production of Russian missiles. Sanctions have also been imposed on the Association of Developers and Users of Technologies that support Russia's crypto market and the industrial accumulation of virtual currency (mining). The measures also target payment service providers, cryptocurrency owners, and crypto exchanges. Some of these decisions will be included in the 20th sanctions package of the European Union, which is already at the final stage and may be adopted by the end of this month. "We are systematically identifying and adding to sanctions lists everyone who manufactures weapons for Russia and finances the supply of components. Our decisions are substantive and practical - and partners are increasingly using them as a basis. Ultimately, this directly limits the potential of Russia's military-industrial complex," Advisor - Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for Sanctions Policy Vladyslav Vlasiuk said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Next article: Saminus ASICS deal is blueprint for Ghanaian athletics success Featured When transparency becomes risk: Combating mobile money fraud in Ghana Prof. Samuel Lartey Business News Feb - 09 - 2026 , 06:22 Mobile money fraud and digital financial exploitation are rising at an alarming rate in Ghana and across subSaharan Africa. As digital financial services expand rapidly, fraudsters are developing new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in human behaviour and public data on social media, messaging platforms, and digital fundraising platforms, including crowdfunding. One of the most concerning trends is fraudsters inferring insider knowledge of customer transactions by monitoring publicly shared payment appeals, donation screenshots, Mobile Money numbers and group saving updates. By correlating these public disclosures with transaction timing, user patterns, and network interactions, fraudsters identify active wallets, spending habits, and periods of heightened vulnerability. This feature article examines these methods in depth, explains their financial and social impacts in Ghana, outlines other modus operandi used by fraudsters, and offers instructive mitigation strategies for clients, mobile money agents, telcos, fintechs, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies. Publicly shared financial data Fraudsters are no longer limited to technical hacks or network intrusions. They now exploit the open nature of social media and mobile messaging platforms, where users publicise financial information for legitimate reasons. In Ghana, platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram are frequently used to solicit donations, share screenshots of Mobile Money transactions, and display group savings contributions. These public disclosures create fertile ground for fraudsters to: Recognise active wallets with frequent transaction history. Analyse transaction timing and response patterns for predictability. Observe financial trust networks based on repeated mentions or shared contacts. Identify customers whose displayed information indicates imminent large transactions or vulnerabilities such as urgent fund-raising. For example, a Ghana-based fund-raiser sharing daily updates about donation inflows and a public Mobile Money number on Facebook can unintentionally signal to fraudsters that the account receives frequent payments. Fraudsters use this publicly available data to prioritise targets that appear active, ready to receive funds and less likely to suspect deceit due to the appearance of community validation. Fraudster tactics Fraudsters also exploit physical attacks, market vulnerabilities and operational inefficiencies by targeting unattended cash points, crowded marketplaces or poorly monitored mobile money agent outlets; for example, they may snatch cash from customers during peak trading hours or impersonate agents at busy kiosks to collect deposits intended for legitimate accounts. Fraudsters use a range of operational methods beyond social media monitoring. The following explains key techniques actively used in Ghana: 1. Social engineering Fraudsters impersonate mobile money agents, bank staff, fintech support teams or government officials. They contact clients with fabricated issues, such as account suspensions or fraudulent promotions, and trick individuals into disclosing OTP codes or verification credentials. 2. SIM swap and sim cloning Fraudsters persuade mobile network operators, through falsified documentation or social manipulation, to transfer a victims phone number to a SIM card under their control. Once achieved, they reset mobile money passwords and take control of the financial account. 3. Phishing and fake payment portals Fraudsters create fake websites and payment portals that mimic legitimate mobile money or fintech services. When users log in or enter details, fraudsters harvest credentials and use them for unauthorised transactions. 4. Group savings Group savings structures such as Susu or Esusu are often organised via WhatsApp or Telegram. Fraudsters join these groups and exploit shared bank or mobile money details. They may claim to deposit funds, share fraudulent screenshots, and then disappear once trust has been established. 5. Malware and remote access tools In some cases, fraudsters send infected files or links that install spyware on mobile devices. This software captures credentials and financial data without user consent or knowledge. Financial impact The financial impact of mobile money fraud and digital financial exploitation is significant. In 2024, the Bank of Ghana and mobile network operators reported an increase in fraud cases linked to social engineering and phishing. These losses impact: Household finances, reducing savings and emergency funds. Small businesses that depend on mobile money for daily operations. Trust in digital financial services, which could slow financial inclusion. Risk Many Ghanaians publicly share transaction screenshots to demonstrate transparency, document progress, or encourage others to donate. These actions are culturally embedded within community funding practices. However, such sharing inadvertently reveals: Mobile Money numbers linked to personal identity Transaction sizes and frequency Network interactions indicating community trust Patterns that fraudsters analyse using simple spreadsheets or automation tools This public transparency is a form of information leakage that fraudsters exploit with minimal technical skill. Mitigation strategies Effectively addressing fraud requires multi-stakeholder collaboration. Below are specific measures clients, mobile money agents, telcos, fintechs, financial institutions and regulators can implement. Clients and individual users 1. Avoid sharing financial transaction screenshots publicly. 2. Use non-public channels for group savings contributions, such as invite-only platforms. 3. Enable two-factor authentication and use unique, strong passwords. 4. Treat OTP and verification codes as confidential information. Mobile money agents 1. Educate customers proactively about common fraud techniques at points of interaction. 2. Verify unusual requests using face-to-face confirmation. 3. Report suspected fraud attempts to mobile network operators immediately. Telecommunications operators 1. Strengthen SIM registration verification using biometric or multi-factor check processes. 2. Introduce alerts for unusual SIM change attempts. 3. Partner banks and mobile money providers to flag suspicious activity. Next article: Let the promise work Featured Turn fugu buzz into national opportunity Daily Graphic Editorials Feb - 08 - 2026 , 09:57 4 minutes read The current global buzz around Ghanas fugu, which was sparked by President John Dramani Mahamas remarks and the viral blouse comment in Zambia, presents Ghana with a rare cultural and economic opportunity. Moments like these do not come often. When they do, nations that act with speed and coordination convert cultural curiosity into lasting value. Ghana must do exactly that with the fugu. For decades, the fugu (smock) has not only been a piece of clothing, but also a symbol of identity, craftsmanship and heritage from Northern Ghana. It carries history in its threads. It depicts the patience of hand-weaving, the pride of culture, and the dignity of tradition. From independence-era diplomacy to modern international forums, Ghanaian leaders have worn it on some of the worlds biggest stages. Yet, despite this visibility, the fugu has not been deliberately positioned as a global fashion and cultural export. The Daily Graphic is of the strong conviction that the current attention offers the perfect turning point and firmly supports the Presidents view that Ghana should capitalise on this momentum. But good intentions alone will not deliver results. What is needed is a coordinated, multi-sector national strategy with urgency. The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, working with traditional authorities, should document and standardise the cultural narratives behind the fugu. Every globally successful heritage productfrom Japanese kimonos to Indian sarishas a well-told story. The fugus origins, symbolism, regional variations and ceremonial significance must be clearly curated and promoted, as we believe cultural authenticity will be its strongest selling point. Again, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Agribusiness must treat the fugu as a serious value-chain industry. This means supporting smock weavers with modern equipment where appropriate, access to quality yarn, improved dyeing processes, and design innovation that keeps the fabric authentic but adaptable to modern tastes. Small-scale weavers should be organised into cooperatives to ensure consistent quality and supply for export markets. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts also has a key role to play in this. It should aggressively brand the fugu as a signature Ghanaian cultural product. It should ensure that the fugu is prominently featured at international cultural festivals, fashion weeks, tourism expos and diaspora events. Ghanas missions abroad can promote Fugu Days or Ghana Heritage Weeks, where diplomats and partners proudly wear the attire. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Special Initiatives must back these ambitions with targeted funding and incentives. Tax reliefs for textile artisans, export facilitation, and startup grants for young designers working with fugu can stimulate rapid growth. Without financial backing, cultural promotion risks remaining mere rhetoric. Beyond the ministries, the private sector and creatives must be involved. Ghanaian fashion designers should be encouraged to reinterpret fugu for global markets. Jackets, dresses, accessories and corporate wear can be created from the fugu, while preserving its unique texture. We must leverage our influencers, stylists and celebrities to help position it as premium African wear rather than a novelty. Quality control is also critical. If global demand rises, poor imitations could flood the market and damage the brand. Certification marks or geographic indication labels could therefore be introduced to protect authentic Ghanaian smocks. We must also take advantage of digital marketing as central to this intent. The same social media power that created the buzz should be harnessed deliberately. Short documentaries, artisan profiles, and styling campaigns can turn curiosity into sustained demand. The Daily Graphic is highly convinced that the window of opportunity is open, but we are also mindful of the fact that it will not remain so indefinitely. Cultural trends move quickly. Ghana must thus move faster. If coordinated action begins now, the fugu can become not only a proud cultural symbol but also a meaningful non-traditional export that creates jobs, empowers artisans and strengthens national identity. The world is paying attention. We must respond with purpose. Featured Sankofa or symbolism? The debate over renaming Kotoka International Airport Collins Adjei Kuffuor Opinion Feb - 09 - 2026 , 14:00 4 minutes read The debate over the proposed renaming of Kotoka International Airport has sparked a strong national conversation about Ghanas history, identity, and the meaning of public symbols. The plan to change the airports name back to Accra International Airport has divided opinion among politicians, academics, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens. What appears to be a simple administrative decision has instead reopened deeper questions about how Ghana remembers its past and defines itself today. Kotoka International Airport was originally known as Accra International Airport when it was built in 1958 under Ghanas first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. The airport was renamed in 1969 after Lieutenant-General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, one of the military officers involved in the 1966 coup that overthrew Nkrumahs government. For many Ghanaians, this background makes the current name controversial because it honours a figure associated with the removal of a democratically elected leader. The government has defended the proposed change as a way of restoring national identity rather than rewriting history. Speaking at a press briefing in Accra in February 2026, the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, explained that returning the airport to its original name was meant to reflect Ghanas capital city and project a neutral national image. He said the move was not politically motivated but intended to ensure that a major national symbol represents all Ghanaians. Supporters of the proposal argue that such an important international gateway should reflect shared national values rather than an individual whose legacy remains disputed. Some commentators have described the proposal as an act of historical reflection. Writing in Modern Ghana in January 2026, social commentator Kofi Agyeman argued that the move reflects the African idea of learning from the past to build a better future. According to this view, changing the name does not erase history but places it in context, allowing the nation to decide carefully which figures it chooses to honour in public spaces that represent Ghana to the world. However, critics of the proposal have raised strong concerns. Speaking in Parliament during a debate in February 2026, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin warned that the move ignores the emotional and historical significance the name Kotoka holds for some communities, particularly in the Volta Region. He argued that removing the name could be seen as taking away one of the few national recognitions associated with the region and cautioned against actions that might deepen divisions. Others believe the debate itself is unnecessary at a time when Ghana faces pressing economic and social challenges. Franklin Cudjoe, President of the policy think tank IMANI Africa, questioned the relevance of the renaming exercise during a radio interview in Accra in February 2026. He argued that changing the airports name would not address unemployment, rising living costs, or weaknesses in public services, and warned against focusing on symbolic decisions that offer little practical benefit to citizens. Civil society organisations have also raised concerns about cost and priorities. In a public statement issued in Accra in January 2026, members of Eagle Eye International described the proposal as potentially wasteful. They noted that renaming a major international airport could involve changes to signage, branding, and official documentation, and questioned whether public funds would not be better used to improve infrastructure and essential social services. The debate has extended beyond politics into cultural spaces. Popular musician Stonebwoy joined the conversation during a media interaction in Accra in February 2026, urging leaders to ensure that decisions about national symbols are guided by broad national consensus. He noted that while history must be respected, national symbols should unite citizens rather than deepen disagreement. Beyond the airport itself, the controversy raises wider questions about how countries deal with difficult histories. Across the world, nations are reconsidering monuments and institutions named after controversial figures. These debates are often emotional because history is complex, and individuals may be viewed as heroes by some and symbols of pain by others. For Ghana, the discussion touches on deeper issues of nation building. Public names shape collective memory and influence how future generations understand their country. The airport is often the first place visitors see when they arrive and the last place they see when they leave. Its name therefore sends a message about what Ghana values and how it presents itself internationally. Whether the airport keeps its current name or returns to Accra International Airport, the debate has already achieved something important. It has encouraged open discussion about history, democracy, and national identity. In the end, the decision will reflect how Ghana chooses to tell its story. National symbols matter not only because of where they come from, but because of the values they project to citizens and to the world. Featured US challenges Chinese control in race for African minerals Reuters International News Feb - 09 - 2026 , 11:35 3 minutes read The U.S. is using offtake deals and state-backed funding to compete in the short term with China in securing supplies of African copper, cobalt and other critical minerals, diplomats, executives and analysts said ahead of this week's Indaba. Washington's focus is on Zambia, Guinea and Democratic Republic of Congo. The latter accounts for more than 70% of global cobalt supplies and produced some 3.3 million metric tons of copper in 2024. Instead of placing U.S. operators in high-risk countries, however, the U.S. is leaning towards offtake and other trading structures such as one it has with Mercuria and arrangements it has with Congolese state miner Gecamines, to edge output into U.S.-aligned value chains dominated by Chinese refiners. Offtake is where a country or company secures rights to a share of a mine's output in exchange for financing or other support. "We're already seeing U.S. engagement reshape mineral flows out of Africa," said Thomas Scurfield, a senior analyst with nonprofit NRGI, ahead of the event in South Africa. "The U.S. is putting money behind its rhetoric, but it remains to be seen whether it can compete with China's scale and speed," Scurfield added. Both Washington and Beijing are expected to seek new commitments at the Indaba mining event in Cape Town this week, with the U.S. sounding out officials on its minerals bloc. Central to the change, Gecamines is preparing to ship around 100,000 tons of its Tenke Fungurume copper allocation to U.S. buyers this year after winning broader marketing rights in a 2023 renegotiation, opens new tab with China's CMOC, opens new tab. 'FINANCIAL FIREPOWER RATHER THAN INDUSTRIAL PRESENCE' The U.S. strategy stretches beyond copper. Xiao Wenhao, analyst at Shanghai Metals Market, said China's cobalt supply chain also faces risks as Congo's export restrictions collide with expanding U.S.DRC cooperation. Elsewhere, London-based Pensana, opens new tab ditched plans to build a rare earth refinery in Britain to process feedstock from its mine in Angola, shifting the project to the United States, citing stronger U.S. incentives and price guarantees. "This is the U.S. deploying financial firepower rather than industrial presence," said Vincent Rouget, analyst at Control Risks. "With offtake and trading channels, Washington can redirect Congolese copper to American buyers without taking on the political or operational risks of running mines in the DRC." Chinese firms still control many of Congo's biggest copper and cobalt assets, including Tenke Fungurume and Kamoa-Kakula, and have routed most output to China for refining for more than a decade. Beyond copper and cobalt, Congo is emerging as a supplier of zinc, germanium and gallium. New offtake arrangements position Gecamines as a leading zinc exporter and principal buyer of germanium and gallium concentrates, with the company recently recording its first export of locally processed germanium. CHINA VERSUS THE WEST The contrast in capital deployment remains sharp. KoBold Metals has staked more than 3,000 square kilometers in the lithium and copper belt, but will not advance projects which are entangled in disputes, stressing governance standards, its Congolese head Benjamin Katabuka told Reuters. Chinese operators, by contrast, have proceeded on contested ground, reinforcing their speedtomarket advantage. At Manono, one of the world's largest undeveloped lithium deposits, KoBold says it will not move until ownership issues are resolved, even as Zijin advances infrastructure on the northern block. If it secures the southern block cleanly, KoBold says production could start within three years. In Guinea, Chinabacked Winning Consortium Simandou pushed ahead with rail and port, opens new tab construction at the giant Simandou despite ownership disputes, effectively forcing Rio Tinto, opens new tab to fall in line. Featured Ayawaso East NDC Primary: Baba Jamal hot: President recalls him from diplomatic duties - OSP, party probe vote-buying allegation Samuel Duodu Feb - 09 - 2026 , 07:36 6 minutes read A simple exercise to elect a parliamentary candidate has caused the recall of a diplomat who contested in the primary, attracted the interest of anti-graft institutions and thrown the entire exercise into controversy over allegations of vote-buying. Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, popularly known as Baba Jamal, once a Deputy Minister of Communication and a former one-term Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, won the National Democratic Congress (NDC) internal contest intended to field a candidate for the Ayawaso East by-election, polling 431 of the 964 valid votes cast last Saturday. His closest challenge came from Hajia Amina Adam, widow of the immediate past Member of Parliament (MP) of the area, who polled 399 votes. The other three candidates polled a combined 134 votes. Total delegates eligible to vote in the primary were 1,047. But viral videos of supposed voter inducement in the constituency pointed fingers at Mr Jamal, Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria. Mr Jamal subsequently explained that he had shown generosity towards acquaintances at Christmas and other festive occasions, and that the 32-inch TV sets and other souvenirs were not intended to induce any of the beneficiaries to vote in a particular way. While the controversy raged, the President, after the election, instructed the recall of the High Commissioner to Nigeria over the allegations of vote-buying in the primary, while the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) said it had began investigation into the allegations surrounding the primary. President's directive In a statement dated February 7, 2026 and signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister of State, Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, President John Dramani Mahama directed Mr Jamal immediate recall from his position as Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria. It said the decision followed allegations of voter inducement in last Saturday's NDC primary in the Ayawaso East Constituency, in which Mr Baba Jamal, a candidate, participated. In his directive to the Minister of Foreign Affairs to recall Mr Jamal as High Commissioner, the President indicated that while the allegations of vote-buying were made against multiple candidates who contested in the primary, Baba Jamal was the only serving public officer among them. The President also recognised the statement by the General Secretary of the NDC, indicating that the party had commenced its own investigations into the allegations arising from the primary. "Without prejudice to the ongoing internal party processes, and strictly in view of the standards of conduct expected of public officers, the President considers it necessary to act decisively to preserve the integrity of public office and to avoid any perception of impropriety or conflict with the government's Code of Conduct for Political Appointees," the statement said. OSP In a statement yesterday, the OSP announced the commencement of investigation in respect of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary of January 31, 2026 and a real-time investigation in respect of the NDCs Ayawaso East parliamentary primary. The investigations focus on allegations of vote buying, vote selling, and the sources of funding of the alleged corrupt acts, the statement said. The OSP also said it was looking into allegations of Baba Jamal abetting thugs to physically attack an officer of the OSP, who was serving an investigative directive on him in relation to vote buying and vote selling. Consequently, the OSP has opened further investigation into the assault of an authorised officer of the OSP in the performance of his functions in relation to Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, it added. The OSP reminded the public that the law prohibited corrupt acts in relation to public elections and that it is a serious offence to engage in vote buying, vote selling, intimidation, threats of violence, and acts of violence in relation to elections. NDC's position Before the voting process could come to a close, the NDC issued a statement, indicating that it would cause an investigation into the allegations of vote-buying. The party consequently instituted a full-scale investigation into the matter, with the appointment of party elder and former National Security Minister, Kofi Totobi Kwakye; the Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, and a lawyer, Emefa Fugah, tasked to submit a report by tomorrow. A statement signed and issued by the General Secretary of the party, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, and dated February 7, 2026, cited allegations of widespread incidents of inducement and vote-buying allegedly perpetuated by some aspirants at the primary in the Ayawaso East Constituency. The party condemned those actions, saying they represented an affront to the values and principles of the party and the reset agenda the partys government was championing. The party further stated that in the future, more drastic sanctions would be taken, including possibly cancelling elections, when such incidents came up. Commitee Meanwhile, the party has set up a three-member commitee chaired by Inusah Fuseini, a former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, to probe the issue. The Majority Caucus in Parliament has also called for the annullment of the results of the primary, while recommending that any candidate who participated in the poll and has been established to have engaged in this unethical conduct be banned from taking part in subsequent primary. Pre-election poll Pre-election polls by the respected Global InfoAnalytics had put Hajia Amina in a comfortable stead to win the race, all things being equal. The research and polling institution, which had correctly polled many other previous elections, had put Hajia Amina's expected votes at 58 per cent. But Mr Jamal and his supporters openly dared to defy the authenticity of Global InfoAnalytics' poll results. The Chief Executive of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah, in a Facebook post after the election, said: "In the just ended NDC primary in Ayawaso East, I was handed a defeat but I will not issue any statement regardless." According to Mr Dankwah, his modelled predictions had a three per cent margin of error. The results showed: Mohammed Ramne: nine per cent (within the predicted margin of error), Hajia Amina, 41 per cent (underperformed by nine per cent, six per cent outside the margin of error) and Baba Jamals 45 per cent (outperformed predictions, four per cent outside the margin of error), Dr Azindow and Najib Sani both performed as predicted. Background The Ayawaso East Constituency parliamentary seat became vacant following the demise of the sitting NDC MP, Mahama Naser Toure, on January 4, this year. His death necessitated the party's primary to elect a candidate to contest on the ticket of the NDC for the by-election scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026. It was Mr Toure's fourth term in Parliament, having entered the House in 2013 representing the people of Ayawaso East on the ticket of the NDC. Featured East Legon Hills residents petition GWL over erratic water supply Juliet Akyaa Safo Feb - 09 - 2026 , 06:57 3 minutes read Residents of East Legon Hills have petitioned the Ghana Water Limited (GWL) over prolonged erratic water supply to the area, with some households going without water for up to 16 months. The Chairman of the East Legon Hills Water Utility Committee, Kweku Bernard, who briefed journalists after a closed-door meeting with the management of GWL in Accra, said the meeting followed the presentation of a formal letter expressing their grievances over the lack of water supply to the community. He said the company had agreed to set up a joint team made up of representatives of the residents, officials from the district and regional offices of the company to better assess and understand the challenges affecting water distribution in the area. The team, Mr Bernard said, would also work to determine specific days of the week when water could be supplied to the community as a temporary measure to ease the hardship faced by residents. Prior to their meeting, he said, they had made multiple visits to the district and regional offices, where no resolution was found, which led them to visit the head office for results. He said the petition was also copied to the Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei; the Member of Parliament for Kpone Katamanso, as well as the district and regional managers of the company. Present at the meeting were the Deputy General Manager of GWL in charge of Operations, Michael Botse-Baidoo; the Chief Manager in charge of Public Relations, Stanley Martey, and the Chief Manager in charge if Special Duties, Chris Siawor. Reasons Mr Bernard said the company, at the meeting, cited challenges relating to piping and topography of the area as reasons for the water shortage, which he found surprising, as such issues were not present in 2024. It was the same topography, but we were getting water in 2024. We had water at least twice every week, sometimes even three times (in a week), he said. He added that the company also mentioned problems with power outages, which affected pumping and the flow of water through the pipes. Water supply Mr Bernard stressed that his area received water only once last year, with some parts of East Legon Hills being without water for about five months. As a result, he said, this forced residents to rely on alternative and often expensive sources of water for their daily needs. He also raised concerns about the quality of water, citing reports of worms being found in water supplied by some water tanker operators. All of us buy water. One of the residents found worms in his tank, as we don't know the source of the tankers and where they get the water from, he said. Despite the challenges, he said, they were hopeful that their engagement with GWL and the proposed interim measures would help to alleviate their current water crisis. Resident Another resident, Patience Antonio, said the water crisis in the area had negatively affected their health, finances and their environment. We have pursued this aggressively. We've gone through the levels. Today, we are here. We met the Deputy General Manager himself and he's telling us what solutions they could put in place going forward, she said. Ms Antonio stated that two years ago, the community had no water issues, which raised questions about what the current problems were. She, however, said the community was willing to participate in the committee to be set up by the company to work towards a lasting solution. Featured Ghana to host Forty under 40 Africa Awards Daily Graphic Feb - 09 - 2026 , 10:57 3 minutes read The continents most influential young leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs under the age of 40, will converge on Accra for this years Forty Under 40 Africa Summit and Awards. The industry leaders from 22 African countries, who were expected to start arriving in Ghana from yesterday, will participate in a series of events, including the Champions Summit and Valentine Fashion Show and an exhibition showcasing Ghanaian craftsmanship to the continent in the lead up to the awards scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra. The Champions Summit will be held on the theme: Resetting the African Mind: A Giant Step Towards Global Dominance, with the exhibition featuring speakers from Kenya, South Africa, Ghana and United Kingdom who will be sharing presentations on moving Africa forward. The event will be delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, and Diaspora Affairs under the Office of the President, positioning Ghana as a strategic hub for youth leadership, enterprise development, tourism, and investment in Africa. Nominees will have the opportunity to taste Ghanaian delicacy at Kanzo Republic. The programme will highlight Ghanas cultural heritage, key tourism destinations, creative economy and emerging investment opportunities. Ahead of the Awards Night, a curated multi-day Ghana experience powered by PayAngel will be held from February 913, 2026, bringing together nominees, finalists, delegates and industry leaders from over 22 African countries. Awards The Forty Under 40 Africa Awards is a continental platform dedicated to recognising and celebrating exceptional young African leaders who are driving innovation, building sustainable businesses and contributing meaningfully to economic and social development across the continent. Speaking ahead of the event, the Founder of the Forty under 40 Awards, Richard Abbey Jnr, stated that since its establishment, the initiative had recognised over 2,000 high-achieving leaders across various industries, thereby fostering a robust pan-African network grounded in leadership, excellence and impact. The Forty Under 40 Africa platform continues to provide a unique opportunity for pacesetters, policymakers, creatives and business leaders to connect, collaborate and contribute to shaping Africas future. The awards, initiated by Xodus Communications Limited, are held in South Africa, United Kingdom, Ghana, and globally in Dubai. The 2026 edition, Mr Abbey said, promised to be a landmark gathering that would celebrate Africas next generation of leaders while reaffirming Ghanas role as a centre for culture, leadership and pan-African excellence. In a related development, Mr Abbey paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, ahead of the fifth edition of the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards. During the visit, he formally presented the trophy to the traditional ruler. This engagement formed an integral part of the preparatory activities for hosting the 2026 edition of the awards in Accra, underscoring respect for traditional leadership and acknowledging Ghanas cultural values as the host nation. Featured GN Savings and Loans licence revocation appeal hearing tomorrow Daily Graphic Feb - 09 - 2026 , 07:25 1 minute read The hearing of Groupe Nduoms (GN)) appeal against a High Court ruling upholding the revocation of GN Savings and Loans (GN Bank) licence is still pending and will be heard at the Court of Appeal tomorrow. Daily Graphic research has revealed that the Bank of Ghanas inability to restore the licence of a defunct bank as reported in the Friday, February 6, 2026 issue of the paper rather pertained to another erstwhile bank, and, therefore is completely unrelated to GN Savings and Loans. GN Savings and Loanss licence was revoked by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) seven months after it was reclassified as a universal bank trading under the name, GN Bank, to a savings and loans company. This publication, therefore, overrides the Friday, February 6, 2026 publication that purportedly ruled out the restoration of the licence by the Bank of Ghana. Background On January 4, 2019, GN Bank Limited was reclassified as a savings and loans company, and consequently, re-named GN Savings and Loans Company Limited. Seven months later, August 16, 2019, the BoG, then under the leadership of Dr Ernest Addison, revoked the operating licence of GN Savings and Loans Company Limited and appointed Eric Nana Nipah as Receiver as part of the Interior Minister calls for people-centred leadership Joshua Bediako Koomson, Feb - 09 - 2026 , 09:57 3 minutes read The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has emphasised that effective leadership in the public sector must prioritise people, communication and trust, rather than authority and hierarchy. He said institutions functioned better when staff at all levels felt respected and listened to, and encouraged others to contribute ideas without fear of intimidation or victimisation. Leadership is not about titles or hierarchy; it is about people, communication and trust. When people feel valued and are free to speak, institutions perform better, he said. Mr Mohammed-Mubarak made the remarks at the 2025 Annual Performance Review Workshop of the Ministry of the Interior and its agencies in Ada last Friday. The event, which was on the theme: Strengthening Security Governance, Accountability, and Service Delivery through Performance Review and Strategic Alignment, brought together all agencies under the ministry to review their 2025 performance and chart a strategic direction for the year ahead. Present at the workshop were the Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service (GPS), Patience Baffoe-Bonney, and the acting Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Samuel Basintale Amadu, among other heads of agencies and senior officials. The workshop formed part of efforts to assess the ministrys financial and non-financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year and to draw lessons to improve service delivery and operational outcomes this year and beyond. Breaking hierarchical barriers The Interior Minister said leadership was not defined by position or title, but by the ability to inspire confidence and foster collaboration. He said excessive hierarchy often stifled innovation and prevented junior staff with valuable ideas from contributing meaningfully to decision-making. Sometimes the best ideas come from people who feel constrained by hierarchy. Once you break that barrier, productivity improves, he said. Mr Mohammed-Mubarak explained that upon assuming office, he adopted an open-door policy and encouraged frank engagement across all levels of the ministry, including junior and support staff. He said deliberate efforts to build trust within the ministry had significantly improved morale and teamwork. He cited simple initiatives such as engaging staff directly, encouraging open discussions during meetings and celebrating workers irrespective of rank, as key steps that helped to break down institutional barriers. These things may look small, but they make people feel valued and respected, and that reflects in how they work, he said. Reforms, innovation Mr Mohammed-Mubarak further highlighted reforms undertaken by the ministry over the past year, including progress in digitalisation and the introduction of an online portal for service delivery. He said the digital platform had improved efficiency, enhanced transparency and eliminated cash handling, with payments now going directly into government accounts. Mr Mohammed-Mubarak said the ministry would continue to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, leverage technology and pursue reforms aimed at professionalism, accountability and improved public confidence. The workshop The minister stressed that the performance review workshop was not merely about accounting for expenditure, but about evaluating results, identifying gaps and agreeing on corrective actions. This review is about asking the hard questions about what worked, what did not, why certain targets were not achieved and how we can do better, he said. He urged heads of agencies under the ministry to approach the process with honesty, strategic focus and collective responsibility. Featured Labour Minister urges youth to target Zambia market amid viral 'fugu' Mohammed Ali Feb - 09 - 2026 , 12:21 2 minutes read The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has urged young Ghanaians to pursue business openings linked to last week's 'buss' about fugu following President John Dramani Mahamas visit to Zambia. In a television interview with GTV on Monday [February 9, 2026], Dr Pelpuo called on the youth to act while global interest in the northern Ghana garment remains strong. Young people, look around, go where it is demanded, the smock [fugu] is demanded, Dr Pelpuo said. Lets not just do the smock, lets do the kente as well. So we carry these things out to the world. Dr Pelpuo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Wa Central, added: Take advantage of it. Pass it on. Take advantage and pass it on. His comment followed President Mahamas state visit to Zambia from February 4 to 6, 2026, which drew media attention to the fugu he wore. After some Zambians, unfamiliar with the attire, described it as a blouse, and thereby leading to exchanges online. Dr Pelpuo said he had received information suggesting trade prospects had emerged from the debate. I sent it to another person who said the smock is now in high demand in Zambia, he said. During the Ghana-Zambia Business Dialogue held on February 6, 2026, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema said he had instructed his team to publicly associate with the fugu and would be ordering more of that stuff for distribution among citizens. Dr Pelpuo also recounted receiving messages from Zambian officials. Yesterday I got a response from a member of parliament from Zambia. And he said, I love Ghana, he said. He brought up pictures when their former president used to wear cloth, Ghanaian cloth, kente and other things, and said, look, those people who said it were ignorant. Featured Police intercept another ammunition and gun being smuggled to Kpandai from Accra, 2 arrested Emmanuel Bonney Feb - 09 - 2026 , 13:24 1 minute read The police have intercepted another arms and ammunition which were being smuggled to Kpandai in the Northern Region from Accra. On January 27, 2026, the police intercepted some bags, which were containing guns and ammunition, even before it left Accra for its final destination in Kpandai. With this latest operation, the Oti Regional Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) intercepted a Kia Rhino with registration number GS- 4677-17, which were loaded with boxes of ammunition and were on its way from Accra to Kpandai in the Northern Region. Upon receipt of the information, the PID Director ASP Maxwell Osafo-Adamu was accordingly informed and he deployed a team who laid ambush for the vehicle. On Sunday, Februry 8, 2026, at about 3:30pm, the said Kia Rhino was intercepted by the team and after a thorough search, one locally manufactured single-barrel shot gun and 21 boxes made up of 525 pieces of Lion AAA and BB ammunitions concealed under building materials were retrieved. Two suspects, Abubakari Salam Atta, the driver of the vehicle and his assistant Kabuja Kwadwo Tademe have since been arrested. During interrogation, they claimed ownership of the said exhibit and have since been detained to assist in further investigations. Featured SkyTrain Project: Document communicating board approval was only an update not actual approval Witness Justice Agbenorsi Feb - 09 - 2026 , 14:45 2 minutes read A document containing a sentence stating that former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), Solomon Asamoah, informed the Board that following the approval by the board that the sum of $2 million be invested in the Skytrain project with GIIF as the anchor investor in return for a 10 per cent stake, became the subject of cross-examination when the case was called for hearing today (Feb 9, 2026). Solomon Asamoah and Prof. Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, a former Board Chairman of GIIF have been accused of conspiring to cause financial loss of $2 million for building the skytrain system which was never built. A former Board Member of GIIF, Yaw Odame-Darkwa, who is the first prosecution witness, had testified in his evidence-in-chief that the project never received board approval. Approval Taking his turn to cross-examine the witness, counsel for Prof Ameyaw-Akumfi, Yaw Acheampong Boafo, sought to make a case that the Finance Officers of GIIF, who disbursed the $ 2 million, could not have acted without approval of the Board, but the witness insisted that there was no board approval. In furtherance of that, counsel asked the witness, It is not correct that the whole Finance Department of GIIF will proceed to disburse $2 million without the requisite documentation. Counsel then proceeded to ask the witness to read the document, which read, Following the approval by the board that the sum of $2 million be invested in the Skytrain project with GIIF as the anchor investor in return for a 10 per cent stake. Responding to the sentence in the document, Odame-Darkwa, stressed that the statement was not a board approval, adding, This is merely an update by the CEO on the SkyTrain project, because at the time, the project was still at the investment committee. Execution Again, counsel suggested to the prosecution witness that paragraph 3 of another document indicated that it was a consortium of six companies that had the responsibility to finance the Accra Skytrain project. The witness in his response said, This is not the document that I will rely on to take an investment decision at the Board. We rely on investment memos to make or not to make an investment decision. And these questions and answers document came about when I think a newspaper reported that the SkyTrain project was to be undertaken, and then the board decided to come up with the Q & A to address it, the prosecution witness stated. The witness has been discharged, with a second prosecution witness scheduled to mount the witness box on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The competition Infinix is big mostly in African markets like Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa, so we will try to keep pricing and recommendations to that region. The official Kenyan MSRP for the phone is KSh 32,999 ($250/210) and the Nigerian price is around 480,000 ($350/300). The Tecno Camon 40 Pro (KSh 41,358-42,062) from sister brand Tecno is a bit too pricey to be a good alternative to the Infinix Note Edge, and the regular Camon 40 (275,200 - 309,800) is a bit too cheap. The latter is mostly true about the Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ too, but it is still a good value in our opinion and worth consideration. We found Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ (8/128) listings ranging between 270,000-330,000, KSh 22,000-KSh 26,000 in Nigeria and Kenya, respectively. It arguably offers a better display with a higher 144Hz refresh rate, but the Helio G200 is not as potent as the newer Dimensity 7100 chipset. Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ Samsung Galaxy A26 Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 5G Over in camp Samsung, the Galaxy A36 is a bit too pricey, and the Galaxy A35, which is still widely offered, is a bit old at this point (not that Samsung's excellent software support doesn't mitigate that to a large extent). This leaves us with the Galaxy A26, which, in its 8GB plus 256GB variant, we found selling for around 430,000 in Nigeria and KSh 27,000-KSh 35,000 in Kenya. The Galaxy A26 is an IP67-certified device, with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides, a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, a more capable chipset and a more versatile camera setup with an ultrawide and 4K video capture on the main camera. Plus, you get Samsung's excellent promise of six major OS updates. From Xiaomi's lineup, you could definitely look into the Redmi 15, and we would encourage you to do so if battery endurance is a major factor for your purchase. Otherwise, there is the Redmi Note 14 5G. With 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it retails for about 230,000-300,000 in Nigeria and about KSh 23,499 in Kenya. Some of its highlights include an IP64 rating, an HDR10+ certified, bright, 120Hz AMOLED display, a more capable MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset, a capable 108MP main, plus 8MP ultrawide camera setup and pretty fast 45W charging. Our verdict The Infinix Note Edge is one of those budget phones that tries to punch above its weight class in looks and features, and for the most part, it succeeds. The design is distinctive, the build is sturdy despite the all-plastic construction, and the IP65 rating plus Gorilla Glass 7i are genuinely nice extras at this price point. The 6.78-inch AMOLED panel is also a strong selling point - it gets properly bright in auto mode, it looks great, and it's paired with very loud, well-balanced stereo speakers that ended up being one of the phone's highlights. Performance is another pleasant surprise. The Dimensity 7100 is not a powerhouse, but it's plenty capable for the class, stays cool, and it doesn't really throttle, which makes the overall experience feel reliable day to day. XOS 16 is feature-rich, and while there's some bloat, the package is still relatively okay for the segment. We also appreciate that Infinix is trying to bring AI features down to the affordable tier, and Folax is actually more useful than the default Gemini setup thanks to its voice features and on-screen awareness. Still, there are a few important caveats. The high refresh rate implementation is simply not dependable. The AMOLED also lacks HDR support, which stings a bit in 2026, even at this price. Battery life is another area where the Note Edge doesn't fully capitalize on its huge 6,500mAh cell - the overall endurance is fine, but we expected more, especially in gaming. The camera story is a mixed bag too. The hardware is simple, but the results are often better than you'd expect - the selfie camera in particular is excellent, and the main camera holds up well in daylight and remains surprisingly competent at night. The problem is versatility: there's no ultrawide, and video stabilization comes with notable trade-offs. All things considered, the Note Edge is easy to like if you prioritize screen quality, loud speakers, stable performance, and a durable build on a tight budget. But if you want a more complete multimedia experience (HDR video, more consistent high refresh rate) or a more versatile camera setup, there are compelling alternatives in the same price bracket. Pros Solid build with IP65 and Gorilla Glass 7i. Bright AMOLED display. Very loud stereo speakers. Good chipset performance; excellent thermals. Great camera performance - both front and rear. IR blaster, FM radio; eSIM support. Cons Ever since Trump Mobile announced the T1 Phone, many of us were left wondering whether it's going to happen at all. The T1 Phone is still wrapped in mystery, and it's constantly getting delayed. However, The Verge managed to speak to two executives at the company - Don Hendrickson and Eric Thomas, who gave some extra details of the future device. First of all, the T1 Phone isn't dead. It's just that Trump Mobile is going through some hurdles, and as a result, the handset's release is constantly getting delayed. Some last minute changes to the design and hardware are the reason why. The updated chassis has a more prominent camera island with three vertically stacked camera sensors, but the execs said that the T1 logo is going away. The gold paint job and the American flag are here to stay. Moreover, the official website now states that the handset is only assembled in the US, but components are manufactured elsewhere, without giving any more details. We wouldn't be surprised if most of the hardware is sourced from China. Additionally, the chipset on board will be from the mid-range Snapdragon 7 series paired with 512GB expandable storage, with support for up to 1TB microSD cards. A 5,000 mAh battery will provide all the juice. The camera hardware on the back will include a 50MP main sensor, joined by a dedicated zoom shooter and an ultrawide camera. The front-facing cam will also be 50MP. The pricing is still unclear, but the execs said it will slot in between $500 and $1,000 - definitely above the promised $499 price tag. Customers who placed a $100 deposit will pay $499 total, though. Even though Trump Mobile claims that the handset will feel and perform like a flagship phone, asking more than $1,000 sounds like a bit of a stretch, given that the smartphone market is moving fast, and a mid-range SoC with a basic camera setup and a 5,000 mAh battery just won't cut it in 2026. Source Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero will deliver her final State of the Island Address at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, with just 327 days left until the end of her eight-year term in office. Her address will broadcast live on GTA Channel 21, Docomo Channel 117 or 112-4, and stream online at the Guam Legislature Media YouTube channel. When Leon Guerrero takes the podium at the Guam Congress Building, there will be less than 11 months until the expiration of $104 million in federal funding set aside to install water and power for a new hospital in Mangilao. The governor has said getting utilities installed for the hospital, now tied up in a court battle with Attorney General Douglas Moylan, is the biggest priority for her last year in office. A new hospital has been a central goal of her administration, and a key talking point in her 2024 and 2025 addresses. Her final address also comes as the island faces continued slow tourism recovery, an affordable housing crisis, a federal push for deep-sea mining in regional waters, and a looming battle over the construction of a new Simon Sanchez High School campus. Democrat Leon Guerrero is likewise appealing to the Republican Legislature for another record-high $1.44 billion budget for the next fiscal year and a pause on a scheduled business privilege tax rollback. The governor, in last years address, painted a rosy picture of the island as it recovered from the back-to-back disasters of the COVID-19 pandemic and Typhoon Mawar. Guam is good, but we will not stop until it is better, was the report she delivered to Speaker Frank Blas Jr. and the rest of the Legislature and the public. In 2025, she appealed to Republicans to slash taxes for more small businesses making up to $1 million annually, instead of a blanket rollback from 5% to 4%. Her objection to the rollback was couched in uncertainty over federal funding cuts from the Trump White House and an estimated $80 million loss in GovGuam revenue from the rollback. Lawmakers still took the BPT down to 4.5% this fiscal year, to much applause from the business community. Another 0.5% reduction is scheduled for Oct. 1. The governor last year also noted that Guams tourism product was outdated, and called for senators to authorize a bond borrowing against hotel occupancy taxes to help reinvest in the tourism industry. That bond borrowing has not happened yet. Tourism arrivals saw a late uptick in 2025 but were almost flat overall. Guam Visitors Bureau Board Chairman George Chiu has warned that the island could take three to five years to get back to 2019 tourism numbersif it ever does. On the housing front, Leon Guerrero urged Del. James Moylan in 2025 to push for H-2B workers to be brought in for civilian construction, and for federal set-asides to assist with affordable housing. As of the close of November, the median home price on Guam was $435,000, the highest in the past six years, and closing in on double a $240,000 median cost in 2017. A bid for Simon Sanchez High School construction was the governors promise in her 2025 address. That bid and an award to Core Tech International both came, but so did a protest of the award. Over the weekend, Adelup announced the award would proceed, with a determination from the Department of Public Works that the contract was needed to protect Guams substantial interest. In the realm of public safety, Leon Guerrero last year pushed the islands delegate to seek more federal support to stop methamphetamine entering the island, mostly through the post office. She also took a shot at AG Moylan in 2025, saying that despite efforts by law enforcement, too many felt that criminal cases were lost at trial. Against that backdrop is the contest for Adelup in 2026. Leon Guerrero has already thrown in her support behind Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, who wants to return to office in January with running mate Sen. Tina Muna-Barnes. They have to beat the team of Sen. Joe San Agustin and former senator and businessman Dwayne San Nicolas in the Democrat primary come August. The victor will square off with the Republican nomineeseither the team of Vice Speaker Tony Ada and businessman EJ Calvo, or Speaker Frank Blas Jr. and former Guam Community College President Mary Okadain the November General Election. The Guam Police Department continues to search for the third suspect in an armed robbery at the Guam Premier Outlets parking lot on Feb. 6, GPD said on Monday. Jay Boi Elias, 31, remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous, GPD said. The public is advised not to approach him and to report any information on his whereabouts to authorities. The two other suspects, Jimmy Moses Hadley, 34, and Justin Willy, 27, were arrested Friday evening and charged Saturday in the Superior Court of Guam. Elias is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing about 170 lbs., with long black hair. He was last seen last Friday afternoon driving a red 2024 Mazda CX-5 Sport bearing Guam license plate CP8383. The armed robbery occurred about 3:33 p.m. Friday when a van carrying a family of Korean tourists and their driver parked at GPO in Tamuning. The victims included three men, two women and an 11-month-old baby. Police said a red SUV driven by Willy followed the van into the parking lot and parked beside it. Hadley exited the SUV, opened the vans door, pointed a firearm at the driver and demanded money. Cash was taken from the drivers wallet before it was returned, and passengers surrendered bags containing money, passports and other belongings. Investigators said Willy also exited the SUV, pointed a firearm at the passengers and took money from the bags before returning to the vehicle. Elias remained inside the SUV and was armed, police said. The suspects fled the scene. The victims later received assistance from GPD with the help of a translator. An anonymous tip later led detectives to a Barrigada residence, where Hadley and Willy were arrested. A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of firearms and clothing believed to be connected to the case. All three defendants are being held on $100,000 cash bail each. Prosecutors had sought $500,000 per defendant, citing the seriousness of the crimes, prior arrests and public safety concerns. Hadley and Willy face multiple felony charges, including robbery involving a deadly weapon, complicity to commit robbery, theft, conspiracy and firearm-related offenses. Both were also charged with terrorizing and child abuse as third-degree felonies. Willy faces an additional conspiracy charge. Anyone with information is urged to call 911 or GPD Dispatch at (671) 475-8615 through 8617. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Two weeks ago, Mr. Rob Cruz wrote a letter disagreeing with my column, A New Athens (Jan. 27, 2026). In it, Mr. Cruz ascribed positions to me that I do not hold and made claims without providing support for them. Cruz claimed I argue we are abandoning a fair, rules-based order... Some people do make this argument. Im not one of them. In fact, in the very column he responded to, I wrote that the rules-based order was never all it was cracked up to be. And just two weeks earlier, in Holiday Interrupted, (Jan. 13, 2026), I wrote this: One thing you can say for Trump, though. He has exposed the hypocrisy of American claims to moral leadership. The roots of Trumps Venezuela policy lie in the invasion of Iraq and the CIA-backed coups in Chile, Guatemala, Iran and many others. The fantasy of a U.S.-led rules-based liberal international order is over. The shift I described is not from a fair, rules-based order to might is right. It is from an order in which rules were applied unevenly and hypocritically, to one with no rules at all. There is always coercion and power politics in international relations, but it has not been this naked or brazen in a long time. Cruz says we have carried disproportionate defense costs, accepted imbalanced trade rules, and tolerated arrangements where our goodwill was taken for granted. I share many of these frustrations and have even commended Trumps efforts to redress this. Trumps biggest success came last year when our NATO allies agreed to increase their military spending. I applauded it in my July 1 column, When the dog wags the tail, writing that Trump deserved kudos for that and other foreign policy successes. But Trumps demands for Greenland were a different matter entirely. He threatened the territory of an ally whose territory we are bound by treaty to protect. The treaty is supported not just by international law, but by US law, as the treaty was ratified by the Senate. Add threats to Canada, attacks on Iran, kidnapping Venezuelas president and then making deals with the same regime to control its oil industry, and the picture is very different from rebalancing the burden of mutual defense. To many experts, Trumps foreign policy looks like one in which the US will use coercion to get what it wants whenever it can. This suggests the burden on taxpayers will grow, not shrink. This is supported by Trumps proposals to increase military spending. Cruzs view of Trumps foreign policy matches Trumps first term, but not his second. In the past year, Trump has made it clear, repeatedly, in so many words, that his goal is to control strategic territories, especially those that have valuable minerals. The last time the world operated that way we got repeated world wars. Is that what his supporters want? On trade, the situation is worse. At first, many countries scrambled to sign trade deals with the US. Then Trump kept changing course, sometimes backing down (The TACO Trade, June 3, 2025), sometimes moving the goalpost and often striking unenforceable deals with few benefits for US workers (Trumps Tariff Theater, Aug. 5, 2025). Not content with that, Trump keeps using tariffs to coerce some other concessions, often threatening new tariffs on countries that have signed agreements with him. The tariff threats then become worthless because countries decide that even if they comply with Trumps wishes, hell just use the same threat again for something else. Trumps two most successful trade deals were with the UK and the EU, both of which favored the US, but then he threatened both with new tariffs over Greenland. The EU then stopped ratifying the trade agreement and threatened retaliatory tariffs. Trump backed down, again. EU ratification has resumed, for now. The following week saw a flurry of trade deals designed to bypass the US. The British prime minister went to China for talks. Canada has been making deals with China, India and South Korea to sell goods that normally go to the US. The EU signed a massive trade deal with India, the fastest growing large economy in the world. Shortly after the EU-India deal was announced, Trump decided to seal the US-India deal. When the details came out, it largely matched what India offered a year ago. While India did agree to phase out purchases of Russian oil, the US got little for six months of arm-twisting on the main US demand, access for US agricultural goods to the Indian market. Cruz says the trade imbalances [are] being redressed. The jury is out on that. The monthly trade deficit in October was indeed the lowest in years, but then it doubled in November. The real question is whether any of this helps US workers and consumers. So far, there is little evidence that it does. The January 2026 layoff figures were the highest since 2019. Im delighted my columns are stimulating response and flattered Mr. Cruz has now responded to them twice. Cruz is a good writer and poses questions well. His frequent letters make for interesting reading. But I would find his arguments more persuasive if he put them to the test of actual events. Walk around Guam today and you can feel itsomething is deeply wrong. Families are stretched thin, small businesses are disappearing, and confidence in our future is slipping. We arent imagining it. Guam is in one of the worst conditions it has ever been, and it didnt happen overnight. It happened because the pressures kept building. Start with the cost of living. Everything has gone upfood, rent, utilities, construction materials and insurance. Paychecks dont stretch like they used to. Parents are working two jobs and still falling behind. Young people are wondering if they have a future here or if they have to leave home to survive. When people cant afford to live and businesses cant afford to operate, the entire island economy starts to buckle. Small businesses, especially, are taking the hardest hits. The flat 4.5% business privilege tax punishes the smallest operators the most. It takes from revenue, not profit, meaning it hits even when a business is losing money or just barely breaking even. Thats a slow bleed of the very sector that keeps Guams economy alivethe mom-and-pop shops, the family contractors, the service providers who hire locals and keep money circulating on the island. And when a business shuts its doors, GovGuam doesnt collect 4.5%it collects zero. Zero payroll taxes, zero BPT, zero growth. But the deeper issue is trustor the lack of it. Look at the mixed messages coming from our own government. The big kahuna at the Guam Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense says Guam is not ready for a major disaster, the governor says we are. The Guam Education Board denies the findings of an audit. And when the sky didnt fall when the BPT went from 5% to 4.5%, one group claimed it was because of proper planning, while Adelup insisted it was because of savings tucked away. So which is it? If our leaders cant agree on the basics, how can the public trust any of them? Infrastructure hasnt kept up eitherall showing decades of underinvestment. Tourism, our economic engine, still hasnt fully recovered. Visitor numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels, and the mix of visitors has shifted. Less tourism means less spending, fewer jobs, and more business closures. In addition, drug-related crimes have risen across the island, adding another layer of hardship for families and communities. Break-ins, thefts, and violence tied to addiction further strain already limited resources and undermine the sense of safety that residents depend on. When we dont feel safe in our own homes or neighborhoods, it changes how we live, where we go, and what we believe about our future here. But heres the part that matters most: Guam can still turn this around if we stop accepting excuses and start demanding results. We dont need more press conferences. We dont need more mixed messages. We dont need leaders congratulating themselves while the island falls apart around them. We need honesty. We need urgency. We need a government that works as hard as we the people it serves. Guam can recover but only if we stop pretending everything is fine and start fixing whats broken. The island deserves better than confusion, contradictions, and complacency. Because the worst condition Guam has ever been in should also be the moment we decide were not going to tolerate this anymore. Take a moment to reflect on where we stand todaythe challenges we face, the struggles our families and neighbors endure, and the uncertainty clouding our future. Then ask yourself what kind of island home you want to help create: one marked by resilience, honesty, and unity, where every decision brings us closer to hope, prosperity, and opportunities for all. I minalak i taotao yan i tanoits in your hand, the hand holding the pencil. 'Jiaolong' rose pays a tribute to late official 13:44, February 09, 2026 By YAN YUJIE and LI YINGQING in Kunming ( China Daily A screenshot from a live stream of He Jiaolong, director of the agricultural products brand development and production-sales service center of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, who passed away on January 14, 2026. A newly bred pink rose variety named "Jiaolong" has departed Kunming, Yunnan province, for Xinjiang's Zhaosu county, serving as a tribute to He Jiaolong a local official who died in the line of duty last month and a symbol of the emotional connection between Yunnan and the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Developed by the Flower Research Institute of the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the rose was sent to Zhaosu following a public naming campaign that drew widespread participation from netizens across China. He, 47, died on Jan 14 after falling from a horse while filming material for an e-commerce program promoting local agricultural products. She rose to national prominence in 2020 as deputy head of Zhaosu county for using livestreaming to help farmers sell produce, and later led efforts to promote agricultural branding and rural e-commerce, supporting hundreds of local businesses. Ahead of the rose's journey, a ceremony was held in Kunming, Yunnan, to unveil its meaning "Invincible when driven by passion" a phrase inspired by He's final social media post. Representatives from Zhaosu county and He's relatives attended the event. The name "Jiaolong" was officially announced on Jan 23 after online voting and expert review. Cai Yanfei, a researcher at the institute, said the rose's soft pink blooms and unexpectedly sturdy petals mirror He's character. "Although gentle in appearance, the flower is not fragile. It has strength and texture, which perfectly match He Jiaolong's resilience and determination,"Cai said. "People often say flowers reflect the people they are named after. We hope that whenever people see this rose, they will think of Jiaolong." The announcement prompted an outpouring of messages online, with netizens from Yunnan and Xinjiang exchanging words of remembrance and encouragement. Local media described the interactions as a warm tribute to He and a reflection of the growing emotional bonds between the two regions, as Yunnan Daily reported. Internet users have proposed naming a newly bred pink rose variety "Jiaolong" in tribute to a Xinjiang official and social media influencer who died earlier this month. [Photo by Cai Yanfei/For chinadaily.com.cn] The "Jiaolong" rose, developed over two and a half years by the institute, is an extremely valuable breeding variety with only 14 mature plants currently in existence. It is expected to be available in the market around October after further propagation. Wang Jihua, president of the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, proposed cultivating flower varieties such as "Jiaolong", which encapsulate heroic spirit and Eastern aesthetics, as "calling cards" for Yunnan's international exchanges. Alongside the commemorative gesture, the initiative fostered agricultural cooperation between Yunnan and Xinjiang. On Monday, the Flower Research Institute of the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences also signed cooperation agreements with a local agricultural company in Zhaosu county. The two sides engage in deep cooperation in areas such as the introduction of flower varieties and technical exchanges, working together to promote the coordinated development of the flower industry in Yunnan and Xinjiang. The integration of scientific research with public participation and humanistic values has enhanced the visibility of agricultural technology and offered new perspectives for cross-regional industrial collaboration, according to local officials. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) What began in 2009 as the hobby project of a 17-year-old developed into the catalyst for a new VR era within a few years. Oculus was more than just a company it was a symbol of the rebirth of virtual reality. But with Facebook's entry, there was a break with the community and renowned partners, strategic course changes, and finally the complete withdrawal of all founders. Today, the Oculus brand only exists as part of Meta's VR gaming division and could soon disappear completely due to the recent cost-saving measures. What remains is a story of innovation, conflict, rapid change, and the failure of a vision. Continue after ad A Teenager with Foresight Palmer Luckey was just fifteen years old when he first became involved with VR hardware. He analyzed old research reports, military patents, and medical VR systems before buying used technology cheaply on eBay and experimenting himself. At seventeen, he built the first VR prototype, called "PR1" a heavy, uncomfortable, but functional VR headset. His goal: an affordable, high-performance VR headset for the gaming market. In early 2012, the time had come: the sixth generation of his prototype, now called "Oculus Rift," was ready for the public. To this end, Luckey, along with programmer Brendan Iribe, software architect Michael Antonov, and Jack McCauley, who was instrumental in developing the "Guitar Hero" instruments, founded the start-up "Oculus VR." The hobby project quickly developed into a serious tech start-up. However, the crucial personnel addition came with id Software legend John Carmack. Meta Quest with controllers. (Image: Meta) Oculus Triggers a VR Hype Carmack was enthusiastic about Luckey's prototype and presented the device at E3 2012 with a VR version of "Doom 3." A small hype quickly ignited in the gaming scene, and Oculus used the momentum for a Kickstarter campaign. Valve founder Gabe Newell also publicly recommended supporting the campaign, and so the goal was to raise a total of 250,000 US dollars by August 1, 2012. Within 36 hours, the amount was reached, and in the end, over 2.4 million dollars were raised from around 9,500 supporters. The enthusiasm was immense: finally, VR seemed no longer just a research and tinkering topic, but tangible for consumers. Carmack joined Oculus as Chief Technology Officer in 2013. As early as March 2013, Oculus delivered the first Development Kit (DK1), which was still far from the final product but allowed developers to create their own VR games for the first time. Shortly thereafter, a 16-million-dollar financing round followed, and in December 2013, another 75 million were added. The breakthrough was to come with the Crystal Cove prototype, presented at CES 2014. It offered room tracking for the first time and a low-latency OLED display. This was crucial for reducing motion sickness, which was a serious problem for many early VR systems. In March 2014, pre-orders for the DK2 began. Oculus partnered with Unity and Epic Games, who provided their engines free of charge to Rift developers. Valve also shared a lot of know-how and personnel with Oculus and believed in a common goal. The VR world was on the verge of a breakthrough. Continue after ad "Missing Link" What's missing: In the fast-paced world of technology, we often don't have time to sort through all the news and background information. At the weekend, we want to take this time to follow the side paths away from the current affairs, try out other perspectives and make nuances audible. All our the "Missing Links" On March 25, 2014, Facebook announced the acquisition of Oculus for around two billion US dollars, surprising many. Mark Zuckerberg spoke of a coming platform that would enable new forms of communication, education, and collaboration beyond gaming. For the social media billionaire, the dream of his own, self-controlled hardware was finally to come true his very own iPhone moment. Twelve years later, we know that Zuckerberg's VR bet has not paid off, despite the name change and billions in investment. The VR community was immediately divided. Many supporters were emotionally invested in the "Oculus" project. They saw themselves as part of a movement led by a tech prodigy who developed revolutionary technology in his garage for the community, not for a tech corporation. But reality was different. Oculus had always been a success-oriented company with great potential, which also received funding beyond Kickstarter. An acquisition was therefore only a matter of time. However, after the start-up, perceived as likeable, became part of an unpopular corporation known primarily for data collection and platform control, many Kickstarter supporters felt betrayed. One of them was Minecraft creator Markus Persson, who immediately ceased his discussions with Oculus about a VR implementation of his successful game. A few months later, however, Microsoft acquired his company, and Minecraft was eventually released for the Oculus Rift in 2016. The acquisition also led to a rift with Valve, which subsequently partnered with HTC and eventually released the Valve Index a few years later. The First Oculus Rift and the Birth of the Quest Despite the criticism, product development continued, and thanks to the Facebook billions, it progressed much faster than planned. The first commercial Rift headset (CV1) was released in March 2016 for 599 US dollars. It offered 1080 1200 pixels per eye, 90 Hz, 360-degree tracking, and for the first time, the specially developed Touch controllers for VR. In parallel, Oculus worked with Samsung on Gear VR, an affordable mobile solution based on Galaxy smartphones. In 2018, the Oculus Go followed, which worked without a PC or smartphone for the first time, but only supported three degrees of freedom (3DoF). Palmer Luckey personally handed the first Oculus Rift to the first pre-order customer. (Image: Palmer Luckey) A year later, Facebook and Oculus changed course: With the Quest, an autonomous VR headset with 6DoF tracking and inside-out cameras was released for the first time. The connection to an expensive gaming PC was no longer necessary, thus removing another barrier to entry. With the Quest 2, Meta lowered the price to 299 US dollars in 2020 and doubled the performance. The devices sold millions of units, partly thanks to software like "Beat Saber," which still tops the list of best-selling Quest games of all time. Quest Becomes a Closed Platform Since the Facebook acquisition, the platform philosophy has fundamentally changed. From a relatively open developer platform, it became a controlled ecosystem. Facebook increasingly demanded exclusive contracts, closed the store for experimental projects, and from 2020 onwards, linked Oculus devices to Facebook accounts a move that led to a temporary sales ban of Oculus VR headsets in Germany. Developers felt excluded, users complained about data protection issues, and sideloading tools like SideQuest emerged to bypass restrictions. Oculus founded its own studios under Facebook and funded exclusive titles. From 2020 onwards, Facebook acquired several well-known development studios, including Beat Games ("Beat Saber"), Ready at Dawn ("Lone Echo"), BigBox VR ("Population: One"), Sanzaru Games ("Asgard's Wrath"), and Camouflaj ("Iron Man VR"). The goal was a stable pipeline of high-quality, exclusive content for the Quest platform. Over the years, Oculus Studios would produce VR blockbusters like "Asgard's Wrath 2," "Batman: Arkham Shadow," or "Marvel's Deadpool VR." Storytelling attempts like the Oculus Story Studio also showed the potential for VR films, but the priority clearly shifted towards games. The Exodus of the Founders Between 2015 and 2021, all Oculus co-founders left the company a gradual process that revealed the growing gap between the original vision and the new corporate reality. Jack McCauley left disillusioned shortly after the Facebook acquisition due to the new corporate structure and changed priorities. Palmer Luckey, the face of the company and inventor of the first prototype, was fired in 2017. The trigger was a political controversy: Luckey had financially supported a pro-Trump group called "Nimble America," which among other things, spread anti-Clinton memes. The revelation led to massive criticism from the developer community, with some studios threatening to boycott Oculus products. Facebook distanced itself, Luckey disappeared from public view for a while, and eventually left the company. He himself later spoke of a forced departure. The waters have since calmed, and Luckey is now working with his defense company Anduril again with Meta. Brendan Iribe, CEO and one of the key strategic minds behind Oculus, left the company in 2018. The reason: Facebook had canceled the ambitious Rift-2 project, in which Iribe was heavily involved. The decision signaled a clear shift away from high-end PC VR towards more affordable, standalone devices like the Quest. For Iribe, who believed in the future of PC-bound virtual reality, this was a break with the original product philosophy. Nate Mitchell, most recently Head of VR Product at Facebook, left in 2021. Iribe and Mitchell are now working together on an AI project. Michael Antonov moved into the biotech industry in 2019. John Carmack, who joined Oculus as CTO in 2013 and lent the company enormous credibility, also reduced his role to an advisory capacity from 2019 onwards. In 2022, he left Meta completely and publicly criticized the company's inefficiency. In an internal memo, he spoke of "wasted potential" and an organization that was progressing too slowly despite enormous resources. Rebranding and Metaverse Shift Without the original minds behind Oculus, Facebook made a radical course change in October 2021: The company renamed itself Meta and declared the "Metaverse" its central future vision. In an elaborately staged keynote, Mark Zuckerberg presented a world full of virtual spaces where people would work, play, and meet. His VR headsets were to be the gateway to this new reality. But most people seemed more confused by Zuckerberg's visions. The Oculus brand was gradually phased out in the process. Oculus Quest became Meta Quest, the Oculus logo disappeared from the devices, and the standalone Oculus app was integrated into the Meta infrastructure. What had once begun as an independent start-up was now fully integrated into the corporation not just structurally, but also symbolically. Mark Zuckerberg did himself no favors with this screenshot from "Horizon Worlds" in 2022. (Image: Mark Zuckerberg / Meta Platforms) Zuckerberg's Metaverse strategy would consume enormous resources. In 2022 alone, Meta invested over 13 billion US dollars in its Reality Labs, the division for VR and AR. But the results fell short of expectations. "Horizon Worlds," Meta's social VR platform, has always struggled with low user numbers, technical problems, and an uninviting aesthetic. Critics had already mocked the legless cartoon avatars early on, which were more reminiscent of early Second Life experiments than a revolutionary online platform. Instead of an open, collaborative VR world, a closed platform approach emerged. The original vision of the Oculus founders open standards, developer freedom, community proximity was increasingly pushed into the background. Meta controlled hardware, software, the store, and content. Linking to Facebook and later Meta accounts became mandatory, and data protection concerns mounted. Developers complained about opaque policies and arbitrary rejections in the app store, and the hoped-for industry growth did not materialize, even with improved and affordable devices like the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. Today, Meta is focusing primarily on artificial intelligence and smart glasses, while virtual reality seems to be running in the background. Oculus once paved the way for virtual reality into the present. Without Luckey's pioneering work, Carmack's support, and the enthusiasm of early supporters, many developments in the industry might not exist today. But the story also shows how quickly an ideal can be replaced by corporate logic. The meteoric rise of Oculus is thus also a lesson about the risks of acquisitions in the tech sector and misunderstood and misguided visions. With the enormous cost savings in Meta's VR gaming division and the closure of numerous studios, it is likely only a matter of time before the last remnant of the once-celebrated start-up disappears from the VR scene. (joe) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. Migration Minister Johan Forssell said the changes mark a clear shift from existing practice. The proposal extends the minimum period of residence from five years to eight. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of the Swedish language and an understanding of Swedish society. Swedens centre-right government plans to tighten the rules for acquiring citizenship, raising residence requirements and introducing stricter tests and income limits. These requirements are much tougher than the situation as it is today because currently there are basically no requirements, he told reporters in Stockholm, according to Reuters. The government said applicants must earn at least 20,000 Swedish crowns per month. That equals about 1,875 euros. They must also show limited reliance on social assistance. Under the proposal, welfare support would be allowed for no more than six months during the previous three years. Applicants must also demonstrate what the government described as an honest and law-abiding lifestyle. A criminal record in Sweden or abroad would delay eligibility. Forssell said basic civic knowledge forms part of the reform. It seems reasonable that you should know whether Sweden is a monarchy or a republic, if you want to be a citizen, he said. The government aims to bring the new law into force on June 6, Swedens national day. The proposal forms part of a broader tightening of immigration policy. Successive governments have introduced stricter rules since 2015, when around 160,000 asylum seekers arrived in Sweden. The current minority coalition has pledged further measures ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September. The anti-immigration Sweden Democrats support the government in parliament. The party has linked previous immigration policies to rising gang violence. Last week, ministers announced plans to tighten asylum rules. Details remain under preparation. HT A SUNFLOWER festival could be staged in Henley this summer. Residents and schools would be invited to grow the flowers and put them on display in Market Place over a weekend. The idea was presented by Councillor Gill Dodds at a meeting of Henley in Bloom. She told the town council sub-committee that she had been inspired by the film Power Station, which highlights community-led projects. Cllr Dodds said: One of their community projects was that they just filled the street with sunflowers. I dont know if anyone else saw the film but it was just quite extraordinary. The community work and the kids being out there and the street just full of sunflowers. Henley is to represent the region in the town category of the Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom UK finals held from July 27 to August 14. Judges will visit the town on a date to be determined. Cllr Dodds said: I thought it would be fun when the judges turn the corner down at the bottom of Hart Street, that they see the town square absolutely full of the bright yellow of the sunflowers. And you may think, well, why sunflowers? Theyre a wonderful symbol, they represent growth, energy and environmental care. We could ask the schools in Henley to contribute and grow some sunflowers. Cllr Dodds said that Stonor Valley Vineyard, at Stonor Farm, grows sunflowers, and it supports the Chiltern Centre, for disabled young adults. It would be lovely to include them in planting the flowers for Market Place, she said. That would link them with the charity and with us. It would be a wonderful visual spectacle. It wouldnt be just one or two sunflowers, we would need as many as we could cope with. I know that watering and looking after them would be difficult and the schools would be closed when we have the final judgement, but I would like a wow factor. I think it would be fun. I think it would add joy, colour and pride for Henley, and it would be a great community project. She added: I end with the words, lets do it! The meeting also heard that the art department at The Henley College had been approached to make an eye-catching sculpture of a bumblebee to go in Market Place, ideally from June or July. This would be the latest project between the college and the council. Last March students designed and painted a swan flying over Henley and the River Thames on hoardings outside the former Henley Youth Centre. The 100 sqm (1,076 sqft) painting also features hippos to represent Leander Club, Temple Island, Mr Toad and Mr Mole from The Wind in the Willows, willow trees, rowers and Henley Bridge. The meeting also heard the water used to maintain public flower beds and displays in Henley could be fully recycled by the end of this year. Kyle Dowling, parks manager, for the town councils parks services team, told the meeting that it had initially contacted the Environment Agency to apply for an extraction licence to pump water from the River Thames. Mr Dowling said: The agency said you would only need to apply for a licence if youre extracting more than 20,000 litres per day from the river and our water bowsers dont get close to that. Ours are between 5,000- and 10,000-litre bowsers, which we top up about three times a week. Were more than able to use the river and we want to move away from using mains water to top up our bowsers. Were currently getting risk assessments put in place to allow us to safely extract water from the river and investigate getting a pump that we can mount on to one of our trailers to make it a smooth process. All being well, this years water supply will be recycled water rather than water from the mains. Meanwhile, tree grates in Market Place, Henley, are to be refurbished The cast iron grates are to be removed and repainted and the areas topped up with pea gravel before the grates are reinstalled. l What do you think? Write to: Letters, Henley Standard, Caxton House, 1 Station Road, Henley or email letters @henleystandard.co.uk Traditional folk activities held to welcome upcoming Chinese New Year in China's Zhejiang Xinhua) 14:05, February 09, 2026 Lion dance performers interact with tourists at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) People perform martial arts at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) Tourists watch traditional dragon dance at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) Tourists watch Lion dance performances at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) Tourists watch Lion dance performances at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) Artists perform during a folk parade at Shouchang ancient town in Jiande, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 8, 2026. Shouchang ancient town has recently held traditional folk activities such as folk parades, dragon and lion dances, and a lantern show to welcome the Chinese New Year. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted sex trafficker and Jeffrey Epstein accomplice, invoked her Fifth Amendment rights Monday during a virtual House Oversight Committee deposition but made an extraordinary offer through her attorney: grant her clemency, and she will testify that both President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing related to Epstein. The 64-year-old former British socialite, currently serving a 20-year sentence at a federal prison camp in Texas, appeared via video link for the closed-door deposition. She declined to answer any substantive questions, frustrating lawmakers seeking information about Epstein's decades-long sex trafficking operation and the powerful figures who associated with him. "As expected, Ghislaine Maxwell took the Fifth and refused to answer any questions," House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer told reporters following the brief session. "This obviously is very disappointing. We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential co-conspirators." The Clemency Proposal Maxwell's attorney, David Oscar Markus, delivered a prepared statement at the start of the deposition outlining his client's conditional willingness to cooperate. The offer represents a calculated gamble that could potentially secure her freedom while simultaneously providing political cover for Trump. "Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump," Markus stated. "Only she can provide the complete account. Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example, both President Trump and President Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms. Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation." The attorney emphasized that his client "would very much like to answer your questions" but must invoke the Fifth Amendment due to pending legal challenges to her conviction. Maxwell continues to maintain her innocence and is seeking to overturn her 2021 conviction based on what her lawyers describe as "substantial new evidence" of constitutional violations during her trial. Markus framed the clemency proposal as serving the public interest by finally providing complete answers about Epstein's operation. "If this Committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path," he said. Political Reactions Split Along Party Lines Democrats on the committee immediately condemned Maxwell's offer as a "brazen" attempt to manipulate the political process and purchase her freedom. "It's very clear she's campaigning for clemency," said Representative Melanie Stansbury, a New Mexico Democrat. Her colleague, Representative Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia, described Maxwell's demeanor during the video call as "robotic" and "unrepentant." "This is all strategy for her to try to get a pardon from President Trump, and she's never shown any remorse for the victims in this entire case," Subramanyam told reporters. He characterized the clemency offer as an attempt to appeal to both political parties by offering to exonerate leaders from both sides. Republican committee members, while disappointed by Maxwell's refusal to testify, were more measured in their responses. Comer said he did not believe Maxwell should receive immunity or clemency, but stopped short of ruling it out entirely or criticizing the proposal with the vehemence shown by Democrats. However, some Republicans expressed strong opposition. Representative Anna Paulina Luna wrote on social media: "NO CLEMENCY. You comply or face punishment. You deserve JUSTICE for what you did you monster." Trump himself has not publicly responded to Maxwell's offer. The White House has not commented on whether the president would consider granting clemency in exchange for testimony. Epstein Survivors Respond Ahead of Monday's deposition, survivors of Epstein's abuse sent a letter to committee members urging them to approach any Maxwell testimony "with the utmost skepticism" and warning against allowing the proceeding to become "another vehicle through which survivors are harmed or silenced." The letter emphasized Maxwell's ongoing refusal to accept responsibility or identify other participants in the trafficking operation. "To this day, Ms. Maxwell has refused to identify the many powerful men involved in the trafficking operation," the survivors wrote. "She has also been dishonest about the vast sums of money she received as a result of her role in facilitating sexual abuse." Family members of the late Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's most prominent accusers, released their own letter addressed directly to Maxwell. Sky and Amanda Roberts made clear they do not view her as merely Epstein's victim or enabler. "You were a central, deliberate actor in a system built to find children, isolate them, groom them, and deliver them to abuse," they wrote. The letter rejected any narrative positioning Maxwell as a bystander or minor participant in Epstein's crimes. These survivor voices underscore the deep suspicion with which many view Maxwell's sudden willingness to "speak fully and honestly"but only if granted freedom as a reward. Critics argue that genuine cooperation and remorse would involve providing information unconditionally, not as part of a bargaining strategy. Maxwell's Legal and Prison Situation Maxwell was convicted in December 2021 of sex trafficking and other charges related to her role in recruiting and grooming underage girls for abuse by Epstein. Prosecutors presented her as central to Epstein's operation for roughly a decade, helping him identify, groom, and sexually exploit victims under age 18. She was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and initially incarcerated at a low-security correctional facility in Florida. Last summer, however, she was transferred to a minimum-security prison camp in Texas after participating in two days of interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. The circumstances of that transfer and those interviews have raised questions. Representative Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, suggested Maxwell received "special treatment" from the Trump administration, noting that her relocation to a more comfortable facility came shortly before the Republican administration took office. Maxwell's legal team continues fighting her conviction. The Supreme Court rejected her appeal in 2024, but in December she filed a petition asking a federal judge in New York to consider new evidence that her trial was corrupted by constitutional violations. Her attorney cited this ongoing legal challenge as the reason she must invoke Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination. The Epstein Investigation Continues Monday's deposition represents one element of an expansive congressional investigation into how Epsteina well-connected financier with ties to powerful business executives, politicians, celebrities, and academicswas able to sexually abuse underage girls for years without being stopped. The House Oversight Committee has issued subpoenas to numerous individuals connected to Epstein, including former attorneys general, FBI directors, and political figures. Most prominently, both Bill Clinton and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, have been ordered to testify. The Clintons initially resisted the subpoenas, calling them "invalid and legally unenforceable." However, after Comer threatened contempt of Congress charges, they agreed to sit for depositions scheduled for February 26 and 27. The Clintons have insisted the depositions be held publicly rather than behind closed doors, arguing that public testimony would prevent Republicans from selectively leaking or mischaracterizing their statements. Comer has thus far refused that request, saying he will conduct closed-door depositions and later release transcripts and video. The chairman argues this approach allows for more thorough questioning without the theatrics that often accompany public hearings. Trump, despite his past friendship with Epstein, has not been called to testify by the Republican-led committee. The former president fought for months to prevent release of government documents about Epstein, but a rebellion among congressional Republicans forced him to sign legislation mandating disclosure of all related records. The Epstein Files Release The backdrop to Monday's deposition is the recent release of millions of pages of internal Justice Department documents related to Epstein under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The law, passed by Congress and signed by Trump in November 2025, required DOJ to make public all material from investigations into Epstein and Maxwell. Lawmakers on Monday began viewing unredacted versions of these files, which had previously been released to the public in redacted form. The documents chronicle the federal government's investigations into Epstein's sex trafficking ring and include extensive references to Maxwell's role. The committee has also demanded documents from Epstein's estate as part of its probe, seeking financial records and other materials that might reveal the full scope of his operation and identify additional participants or enablers. Historical Context: Epstein and Maxwell Epstein died in a New York jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide, though it spawned numerous conspiracy theories given his connections to powerful figures and the potential his testimony held to implicate others. Maxwell is the only person convicted of crimes related to Epstein's sex trafficking operation. Prosecutors chose to pursue her rather than attempting to bring cases against the wealthy and influential men who allegedly participated in or enabled Epstein's abuse, a decision that frustrated survivors and advocacy groups. The lack of additional prosecutions has fueled ongoing investigations, including the current congressional probe, as lawmakers and survivors seek accountability beyond Maxwell and the deceased Epstein. The question of who else knew, participated in, or facilitated the abuse remains central to public discourse about the case. What Clemency Would Mean Presidential clemency can take several forms. A full pardon would clear Maxwell's conviction entirely, while a commutation would reduce or eliminate her sentence without overturning the conviction itself. Either would represent extraordinary intervention in a high-profile sex trafficking case. Presidents traditionally grant clemency to individuals who have shown remorse, served substantial portions of their sentences, or present compelling arguments about injustice in their convictions. Maxwell, who has consistently maintained her innocence and shown no public remorse, does not fit the typical clemency profile. However, her offer to provide testimony exonerating Trump creates a unique political calculation. If Trump believes Maxwell could credibly refute allegations about his relationship with Epstein, that might outweigh traditional clemency considerationsthough such a quid pro quo arrangement would likely face intense criticism and potential legal challenges. Looking Ahead The committee's investigation continues with the Clinton depositions later this month and ongoing review of the Epstein files. Whether Maxwell's clemency gambit succeeds depends entirely on Trump's willingness to grant it, which remains unclear. For survivors of Epstein's abuse, Monday's deposition represented another frustrating chapter in a long quest for accountability and truth. Maxwell's refusal to provide unconditional testimonyand her apparent attempt to leverage what she knows for personal gainreinforces their view that she remains focused on self-preservation rather than justice for victims. As one survivor advocate put it: "Real cooperation means telling the truth because it's the right thing to do, not because you've negotiated a get-out-of-jail-free card." Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Global long-haul travel intentions soften for 2026 as financial and time constraints push travellers towards domestic and short-haul trips. Interest in visiting Europe remains solid but declines slightly across key overseas markets. Europe continues to rank highest globally on safety. More uncertainty in booking behaviour, growing interest in semi-package trips, and rising demand for wellness and slow travel. The European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail have published the new Long-Haul Travel Barometer 1/2026, providing forward-looking insights into travel intentions, preferences and barriers among travellers from seven key overseas markets to Europe: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and the United States. The findings point to a more cautious outlook for long-haul travel throughout 2026, shaped by affordability concerns, growing preference for domestic or closer-to-home trips and limited vacation time. Across surveyed markets, 59% of respondents plan to take a long-haul trip between January and December 2026, a notable 5% decline from last year. While the decrease is modest in individual markets, the overall trend reflects rising sensitivity to cost, value and time constraints when planning trips further ahead. Europes position across key overseas markets Interest in visiting Europe remains solid, with 42% of long-haul travellers considering a trip to the region in 2026, down slightly (-3%) from last year. Interest varies by market, led by China (59%) and Brazil (54%). In China, demand remains strong despite a small decline. Travellers increasingly favour personalised and experience-led itineraries. In Brazil, enthusiasm is holding up, though higher costs are nudging some travellers toward domestic and short-haul options, even as Portugal continues to stand out as a preferred destination. Several overseas markets are showing a clearer tilt toward closer, better-value travel. Australia has seen the sharpest decline (47%, -7), reflecting a broader shift away from long-haul travel toward nearby Asian destinations. Canada has edged down (45%) amid strong demand for domestic and warm-weather trips. In the US, intentions have softened to 34% as economic uncertainty and recession concerns shape destination choice, despite sustained overall travel appetite. South Korea shows a modest rebound (34%, although opting out of long-haul travel has increased. Japan remains the least inclined market, with 20% considering a European trip in 2026. Cost and time constraints shape travel decisions Among respondents not planning overseas travel, high costs are the leading deterrent (52%), followed by a growing preference for domestic trips. Affordability remains the main barrier to travelling to Europe (43%), particularly among younger travellers aged 1834. Limited vacation time continues to constrain travellers in South Korea and Japan the most, while Chinese respondents show heightened sensitivity to geopolitical tensions when planning long-haul trips compared to other source markets. Safety emerges as a key competitive advantage Safety has become the leading criterion when selecting a European destination, cited by 51% of respondents, rising significantly year-on-year. Europe ranks highest globally across all safety dimensions, including political stability, personal safety and natural hazards. This perception is particularly strong among Chinese travellers, reinforcing Europes position as a reliable and secure destination in an uncertain global environment. Changing travel behaviour and emerging trends Booking behaviour suggests growing uncertainty. Just over one-third of travellers (36%) have already booked a European trip, down from last year, with particularly sharp declines in China and South Korea. Interest in fully packaged travel continues to ease, while demand for partial packages is rising. This shift is driven largely by Chinese travellers: preference for partial-package bookings has increased by 3% since 2025, signalling a move to more independent travel planning. Separate bookings dominate among travellers from the US, Canada and Australia. Leisure remains the main motivation for travel to Europe (75%), but business travel has increased notably (9%, +3), with the highest shares coming from Australia and South Korea. Culture and history top the list of planned activities, followed by gastronomy, city breaks and nature. Slow travel is also gaining momentum, increasing from 22% in 2025 to 26% in 2026. Spending priorities are shifting as well. Food and drinks remain the biggest budget item, while interest in shopping has fallen. This is driven largely by China, where shopping intent dropped from 66% to 51%. Wellness remains niche, but interest is growing (+3%), again led by Chinese travellers (25%). In response to the findings, Miguel Sanz, President of the European Travel Commission, noted: As travellers plan further ahead for 2026, we are seeing a more cautious approach to long-haul travel. In this context, Europes strong safety perceptions, quality infrastructure and wide range of cultural and nature-based experiences remain clear strengths. Europe continues to stand out as a reliable destination, well-positioned to respond to evolving demand for more flexible travel and experience-led journeys. As preferences evolve, its more important than ever that Europe strengthens its branding and global positioning around distinctive, experience-led travel. A clear narrative helps us attract the right travellers: those who travel responsibly, stay longer, and spend locally. The full report can be downloaded here. About European Travel Commission Established in 1948, the European Travel Commission is a unique association in the travel sector, representing the National Tourism Organisations of the countries of Europe. Its mission is to strengthen the sustainable development of Europe as a tourist destination. In the last several decades, ETC has positioned itself at the forefront of the European tourism scene, establishing its expertise and building up partnerships in areas of tourism, based on promotion, market intelligence and best practice sharing. Inclusion and Growth Strategy Highlighted at ITB Berlin 2026 LGBTQ+ Pavilion - Image Credit ITB Berlin The LGBTQ+ Tourism Pavilion will return to ITB Berlin from March 3 to 5, 2026, in Hall 4.1, featuring new partners including Booking.com, Queer Destinations, Grindr, and Turespana, with Spain taking a leading role among exhibitors. The LGBTQ+ Tourism Pavilion at ITB Berlin 2026 will bring together destinations, companies, and media in Hall 4.1, underscoring the segments growing significance in the global tourism industry. Booking.com will debut as an exhibitor and supporting partner, joined by Queer Destinations and Valencia, host of the Gay Games 2026. Grindr will participate for the first time as the presenting partner of the LGBTQ+ Tourism Lounge, while Munchen Tourismus serves as this years Premium Partner. Spain will have an expanded presence in the pavilion. Queer Destinations will debut as a supporting partner, alongside co-exhibitors Basque Country and Salou, recognized as LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. Valencia and Benidorm will also be represented as supporting partners, with Valencia providing an international preview of the 2026 Gay Games. JN Global Project will showcase additional Spanish destinations, including Madrid, Torremolinos, Gandia, and Gran Canaria. On Tuesday morning, the LGBTQ+ Media Brunch will take place in Hall 4.1 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., bringing together press and partners to discuss current developments, destination trends, and international projects. In 2026, Turespana and the city of Sevilla will serve as presenting partners and introduce the IGLTA Convention, scheduled for November 2026 in Sevilla, during the Media Brunch. A panel discussion titled "From Risks to Resilience: Practical Steps for Inclusive LGBTQ+ Travel in the Future" is scheduled for Tuesday from 3:15 to 3:55 p.m. on the Green Stage in Hall 7.1b, as part of the Diversity & Inclusion Track at the ITB Berlin Convention. Representatives from Turespana, Hotelbeds HBC Group, A3M Global Monitoring, and Grindr will discuss how destinations and companies can support inclusive travel amid restrictive policies and safety concerns. ITB Berlin is conducting an international market survey, in partnership with A3M Global Monitoring and Diversity Tourism, on the risks and experiences of LGBTQ+ travelers. The survey will run until April 2026, with results to be included in the annual update of the global LGBTQ+ Travel Risk Map, scheduled for publication during Pride Month. The Pavilion will also feature a session titled "From Values to Value: Why Inclusive Tourism Is a Growth Strategy in 2026," focusing on inclusion as a driver for economic growth, risk minimization, and competitiveness. The session will address the role of inclusive standards in MICE decisions, their impact on corporate travel and employer branding, and the importance of certifications, data, and clear criteria for market positioning. The LGBTQ+ Networking Reception will be held on Tuesday, March 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. in Hall 4.1, hosted by TOMONTOUR and supported by IGLTA and the Pink Pillow Berlin Collection, with Dorint Hotel on Kurfurstendamm sponsoring the events rainbow cake. On Thursday, the LGBTQ+ Business Summit will take place in the pavilion, hosted by Jens Schadendorf, author of "GaYme Changer," who will present his new book. Representatives from LGBTQ corporate networks, including Deutsche Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and Pride Events, will discuss the current state of the LGBTQ+ community. The Gender Equality Awards will be presented on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 2:15 to 3 p.m., recognizing excellence in gender equality in tourism. The event will conclude with the ITB Diversity Gala Reception & LGBTQ+ Awards Ceremony 2026 at the Waldorf Astoria Berlin on Thursday, March 5, from 7 to 11 p.m., by invitation only. The ITB LGBTQ+ Pioneer Award 2026 is planned for Russell Lord of Kenes Tours, Israel, and the ITB LGBTQ+ Tourism Award 2026 for Basquetour (Basque Country), Spain. Rendering of the Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek Plamondon Hospitality Partners has begun construction on the Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek, a full-service hotel and conference center located along Carroll Creek Linear Park in Downtown Frederick. The project is structured as a four-way investment partnership involving public and private entities. The State of Maryland is providing $23 million in public investment, representing 26% of the total project cost. Frederick County and the City of Frederick are contributing a combined $4.5 million. The project is part of a statewide strategy to strengthen regional economies, with local investment intended to deliver economic returns for residents and businesses. Governor Wes Moore, County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, and Frederick Mayor Michael OConnor attended the groundbreaking ceremony, highlighting the collaborative investment partnership among Marriott, Plamondon Hospitality Partners, and local and state government entities. The Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek will offer 204 guest rooms and more than 21,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. It will be the only facility in Frederick City and County capable of hosting large-scale conferences, business summits, and major events under one roof. The project is expected to generate $25.8 million in direct, indirect, and induced spending annually, including $1.5 million in incremental Maryland state taxes and nearly $1 million in local property taxes. The hotel and conference center is expected to create approximately 200 direct, indirect, and induced jobs and catalyze more than $100 million in follow-on development in Downtown Frederick. Plamondon Hospitality Partners is leading the development and will manage the hotel. Construction and design partners include DAVIS Construction, FILLAT+ Architecture, Looney & Associates, and PDSI. Atlas Restaurant Group will be involved in conceptualizing and executing the dining venues for the hotel and conference center. The City of Frederick will issue community notices regarding sidewalk or road closures related to the project. Completion is scheduled for 2027. Berkshires Awarded MVP Grants BOSTON The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $3 million through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Planning 2.0 (MVP 2.0) grant program to help local communities take concrete steps to prepare for climate change. In Berkshire County the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) on behalf of Adams, Lanesborough, North Adams, and Williamstown was awarded $325,000. Monterey was awarded $100,000. Twenty-one municipalities and three regional groups representing 11 additional municipalities are included in this round of grantees. These planning grants will support communities in updating local climate resilience plans and move immediately from planning to action, by funding on-the-ground projects that protect neighborhoods from flash floods, keep residents safer during heatwaves, and ensure reliable water supplies during drought. "Every city and town is already planning ahead to address extreme weather, and we want to give them the support they need to protect their residents and their infrastructure," said Governor Maura Healey. "This program ensures that no community is left behind as we prepare for todays challenges and those ahead." Nearly every municipalityabout 99 percent, or 349 communities are currently enrolled in this grant program after completing the initial planning grant process. MVP Planning 2.0 grants help cities and towns update their climate resilience plans, prioritize the needs of residents facing the greatest risks, and launch pilot projects. Due to the increased demand and strong track record, the Healey-Driscoll Administration is seeking to double funding for the MVP program to $315 million in the proposed Mass Ready Act. The bill also allows nonprofits to apply for grants and partner with cities and towns on high-impact local projects. MVP Planning 2.0 guides communities to prioritize the needs of those most affected by climate change, ensuring their leadership in the planning process. Cities and towns will also receive training on best practices in climate resilience and equity, allowing them to rethink their current plans based on improved community participation in the process. Each selected community will also receive $50,000 in guaranteed funding to support projects that enhance their resilience to climate impacts. Communities will continue to have access to an updated online resource called Guides for Equitable and Actionable Resilience (GEAR). This tool provides important information on how local climate issues relate to community concerns like housing and health. The municipalities receiving grants will work with experts in climate resilience and will have an Equity Partner to help keep equity at the forefront of their plans and projects. They will form a team of community liaisons with strong ties to the populations most affected by climate change. MVP is a priority program of ResilientMass, the statewide program to reduce risk and strengthen communities in the face of climate change impacts. Local Production Workers Sought for Crewdson Photoshoot PITTSFIELD, Mass. Local talent is being sought for a production by world-renowned photographer Gregory Crewdson this spring. On Friday, the Berkshire Film and Media Collaborative of Western Massachusetts announced that Crewdson's team is seeking production assistants and production coordinators for a project in Pittsfield and North Adams in March and April. The photographer is well known for his cinematic, staged photographs in post-industrial settings such as Berkshire County. Crewdson last shot in Pittsfield and Adams in 2021. A posting from the film and media collaborative describes the project as a "large-scale, professional photography production" in Pittsfield and in North Adams between March 5 and April 10. The production is seeking local hires only, as no travel or housing will be provided. "This is an exciting opportunity to work on a high-level production with an internationally recognized artist known for his cinematic, meticulously crafted imagery," the advertisement reads. "Prior set experience is a plus, but a strong work ethic, reliability, and a positive attitude are essential." On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice When police raided the Apple Daily newsroom in 2021, journalists across Hong Kong understood they were watching more than the collapse of a newspaper. They were being shown the future. A little over four years later, the conviction of the papers founder Jimmy Lai on sedition charges has merely formalised that state of affairs. The real impact has long since settled in, embedded in daily decisions about what can be written, who can speak, and how far the press can push in their pursuit of the truth. What remains of journalism is editors identifying invisible red lines, protecting staff and ensuring their reporting does not expose journalists or sources, while reporters engage in self-censorship to escape harassment and intimidation by the government. Nothing has changed because everything has already changed. The changes are baked in, Tom Grundy, the founding editor of Hong Kong Free Press, tells The Independent. Many Hongkongers, from whatever side youre on, are reluctant to speak nowadays, and there are fewer opportunities to ask questions of the authorities. Only a handful of journalists working in Hong Kong agreed to speak to The Independent, with several requesting anonymity for fear of reprisal. Those interviewed, from local and foreign media organisations based in the city, described witnessing in real time a rapid erosion of press freedom in what was once one of Asias most open and freewheeling media environments. Critics of the Chinese government say the guilty verdict against Lai, delivered after a 140-day trial, was preordained. The elaborate courtroom performance, they argue, should not be mistaken for justice. Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison on 9 February, the longest jail term so far under the Beijing-imposed national security law. Effectively a life sentence for the 78-year-old British national, the ruling came just days after prime minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded a visit to Beijing, during which he faced pressure to demand Lais release in talks with Chinese president Xi Jinping. Starmer said he raised the case during his visit to China in late January the first by a UK prime minister in eight years but played down any hopes of securing Lai a reprieve. open image in gallery Keir Starmer arrives in Beijing, China, on 28 January 2026 ( AP ) Selina Cheng, chair of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, says the days are now gone where you would see any story that questioned political power, or the citys disciplinary forces, in the local press, as these are now deemed the most sensitive areas. On the surface, the working conditions for the citys press seem quiet and calm: there are no longer dramatic newsroom raids, sudden arrests of journalists or people working in news organisations, and few, if any, overt acts of censorship. Instead, she says, there are more covert forms of coercion anonymous letters accusing journalists of indulging in anti-China activities, threats of being reported to the national security police, targeted tax audits and, in some cases, gag orders preventing them from explaining why they have stopped publishing or speaking publicly. Authorities have continued to arrest and prosecute people over speech, sometimes over quite innocuous comments on the internet criticising the government or over certain political slogans. None of these used to be criminal in Hong Kong, says Cheng. They have moved to use other coercive methods covertly, so that people stop publishing or saying things in public. open image in gallery Projection on the UK parliament spotlights Keir Starmers golden opportunity to free Jimmy Lai ( Supplied ) Cheng, 35, who is currently embroiled in a legal battle with The Wall Street Journal over her dismissal by the paper, says that the authorities have realised that arresting people, especially journalists, could backfire or lead to greater reputational damage for the government. She says she has first-hand experience of the threats and harassment that many in the profession have faced. Letters accusing her of anti-China activities or causing unrest in Hong Kong were sent to a professional organisation connected to one of her family members. Basically, it felt like a way to intimidate me and their professional contacts, suggesting that those contacts should not have a relationship with me, she says, adding that the letters mixed half-truths with public information to appear credible. The journalists association has documented about a dozen similar cases involving reporters and their relatives, with complaints to police delivering no relief. open image in gallery Final edition of Apple Daily in Hong Kong on 14 June 2021 ( AFP/Getty ) The deterioration of press freedom in the city Hong Kongs global press freedom ranking has dropped from 18th in 2002 to 140th now moving closer to that of mainland China, which is in 178th place, worsened dramatically with the introduction of the national security law in 2020. The law, imposed directly by Beijing after bypassing Hong Kongs local legislature, criminalises any acts of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, using language that critics say is deliberately vague. One of its first blows landed in June 2021 when 500 police officers raided the Apple Daily offices. Lai and senior staff were arrested and assets worth 1.64m were frozen. The newspaper was raided twice before it announced its closure a few days later a move described by Hong Kongs journalists and critics of the Chinese government as a chilling blow to freedom of expression. At least 14 other media outlets have shut down since, and many individual journalists have been arrested, according to Human Rights Watch. Stand News, once the citys most prominent pro-democracy outlet, had its office raided, its assets frozen and, two years later, its editors were convicted of sedition over published articles. A journalist working for a foreign outlet, among those who requested anonymity, says the pressure is no longer confined to local media. International outlets are now part of the same calculation, he says. In a move that he described as chilling and unprecedented, the national security office called in representatives of all foreign media outlets to warn them against indulging in anti-China activity following the devastating fire in Hong Kongs Tai Po district on 3 December. The national security law ushered in a new era in Hong Kong which is now experiencing a steady march towards becoming an integrated part of the authoritarian state, the journalist says, adding that news outlets in the territory now routinely consult lawyers before publication, highlighting the unpredictability of the national security framework. That legal ambiguity has created a level of nervousness weve never seen before, he notes. Almost every international media organisation now seeks legal advice before publishing stories related to figures like Jimmy Lai. Reporters from local media outlets are being approached by national security police to drink tea a euphemism long used in mainland China to call in journalists to threaten or question them, he says. Drinking tea is framed as a polite invitation from national security police to have tea, the journalist explains. But it is really a euphemism for a meeting in which a journalist is warned, questioned or quietly threatened. open image in gallery Journalists in Hong Kong are under mounting pressure ( AFP/Getty ) The intimidation is no longer limited to members of the media, journalists say. News sources routinely withdraw at the last minute, decline interviews or insist on anonymity. Some media organisations allege that government representatives have contacted advertising departments to discourage certain coverage, threatening to withhold advertising budgets if they dont comply. For the international community to better understand China, Hong Kong is sadly a case study in terms of how different the values are between China and much of the world, the journalist working for a foreign outlet says. Some people I interview often say that Hong Kong seems, in some ways, stricter than the mainland. Authorities almost treat Hong Kong similarly to how Xinjiang or Tibet might be treated. Officially, the authorities deny any erosion of press freedom in the city. Yet the coverage of Jimmy Lais trial by the Hong Kong media closely followed court statements, with editorials in state-aligned outlets insisting it was fair and that the case had nothing to do with journalism. The South China Morning Post ran an editorial saying the verdict stands up to scrutiny, rejecting claims that it undermined judicial independence. The paper accused the West of misrepresenting the trial as an attack on press freedom. State media outlets like China Daily, Global Times and CGTN echoed this line, urging international media to retract what they called misleading criticism. Before its closure, Apple Daily sold up to a million copies per day at the peak of its popularity. That same popularity is now being presented as evidence of a criminal conspiracy. Jimmy Lai once said he had named the newspaper after a forbidden fruit in the Bible, telling Lianhe Evening News: "If Eve hadn't bitten the forbidden fruit, there would be no sin, no right and wrong, and of course no news. open image in gallery A newsstand sells copies of Apple Daily in Hong Kong in 2020 ( AFP/Getty ) Lai has repeatedly denied acting illegally, calling for sanctions on China or inciting violence, insisting that Apple Daily gave voice to Hongkongers desire for freedom. Robert Sirico, a US-based Catholic priest and friend of Jimmy Lai, says he met the media mogul in Hong Kong after his baptism and turn towards religion in the late 1990s. Lais real offence is moral, not legal, Father Sirico, the co-founderof the Acton Institute, tells The Independent. He refused to be silent. And more remarkably, he refused to leave Hong Kong, even though he holds British citizenship. He was an uncompromising advocate of human freedom, but he was never treasonous. There were no machinations of that kind in all my dealings with him. Lai could easily have escaped if he wanted to, he notes, because he had the wealth, the passport and the opportunity to do so. But he stayed in Hong Kong because he always said Hong Kong gave me my freedom and he felt obliged to defend it. Sirico recalls leaving the courtroom with deep unease after seeing Lai in a glass dock, surrounded by security, at a 2024 hearing. It was a little frightening. The courthouse was surrounded by a lot of military presence with guns. To enter, you had to go through security, paparazzi and metal detectors, and that was the moment I felt the most uncomfortable, he says. No words were exchanged when I first saw him in the small courtroom. When he walked in, he greeted his wife and family, and then he saw me. I could see he became emotional. He bowed in my direction, and I made the sign of the cross. Sirico hopes that voices around the world will keep speaking up for Jimmy Lai. The Pope has met Mrs Lai and their daughter, and political leaders have raised the case, he says. Thats the hope: that he can be released and spend his final years with his family. open image in gallery Jimmy Lai is escorted to a prison van before appearing in a Hong Kong court on 12 December 2020 ( AP ) A journalist speaking anonymously after being targeted over their work says the case is about more than just Lai. Apple Daily and its publishing group meant a great deal not just to journalists, but to the entire media industry and to Hong Kong society, they say. The journalist says when people talk about the case, they focus on Lai because hes the owner and a well-known figure. But six other senior figures, including journalists, were also arrested and convicted. The crackdown on Apple Daily caused enormous damage to the industry. It was the first major action taken against a press group in Hong Kong. Hundreds of journalists lost their jobs, and some no longer felt secure living in the city and the country. In addition to Jimmy Lai, six former executives of Apple Daily and its parent company, Next Digital, were tried under the national security law, and all pleaded guilty to conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. For journalists still working in Hong Kong, Lais case is a boundary marker rather than a story a measure of how far speech can go. As for the future of the citys press, Hong Kong Free Presss Tom Grundy is not very optimistic. But we are still here, he says. For all the compromises we have to make, and for all the risks we have to face, we feel its better to be in than out to keep our ears to the ground and capture, with nuance, what is really happening inside the city. Close Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The British government has vowed to rapidly engage further" with the Chinese authorities after Hong Kongs media tycoon Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison, the heaviest penalty ever handed out under the city's national security law. Foreign secretary Yvette Cooper said the jail term was tantamount to a life sentence as she raised concerns over his appalling health condition in solitary confinement.The 78-year-old Briton was found guilty in December of two charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces under a China-imposed national security law, as well as a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious material. Lai, a pro-democracy campaigner and founder of the now-shutteredApple Daily newspaper, has always denied all wrongdoing. Today, three handpicked judges vetted by Hong Kong leaders cited Lais serious and grave criminal conduct in handing down 20 years in prison. Six other former executives of the paper were also sentenced with terms ranging from six years and nine months to 10 years. Lai's family has raised renewed concerns over his health and alleged mistreatment in solitary confinement, saying after today's sentence that he will most likely "die a martyr" in jail. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and media mogul Jimmy Lai was being heralded by supporters as the citys conscience on Monday after he was sentenced to 20 years in prison on national security charges. Once a penniless teenage refugee who arrived in Hong Kong as a stowaway, Mr Lai rose to become one of the citys most influential media tycoons has now become its most prominent political prisoner. Mr Lai, 78, has been handed the longest sentence so far under Hong Kong's controversial national security laws, which were introduced in 2020 following a period of city-wide protests. The UK government has condemned his jailing as tantamount to a death sentence for the media mogul, while other countries including Japan have also spoken out. Mondays sentencing represents an effort by Beijing to quash what they see as a destabilising presence, but also the failure of foreign governments particularly the UK, of which Mr Lai is a citizen to secure either a more lenient sentence or his release. open image in gallery Lai was arrested just two months after this photo was taken in June 2020 ( AFP/Getty ) Mr Lai has already spent five years behind bars for his role in Hong Kongs 2019 pro-democracy protests, yet only two of those were counted as time already served, meaning he will not leave prison under his current sentence under 2044. He would be 96. The sentencing came only days after Sir Keir Starmer flew to China for the first trip to the country by a UK leader in eight years, amid pressure from human rights groups to press for the release of the British national. Concluding his trip on 31 January, Mr Starmer said he raised the case during his meeting with Xi Jinping and that he had a respectful discussion regarding his imprisonment in the former British colony. Mr Lai, 77, who founded the Apple Daily newspaper, which was forced to close after a police raid and asset freeze in June 2021, had pleaded not guilty to two charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces, and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious material. But after a two year trial, three judges handed down a guilty verdict, with Judge Esther Toh saying Mr Lais actions left no doubt that he had harboured resentment for the Chinese government. She said that the court was satisfied that Lai was the mastermind of conspiracies against the Chinese government and that his evidence was at times contradictory, inconsistent and unreliable. Who is Jimmy Lai? Born in mainland China, Mr Lai fled to Hong Kong aged 12 by stowing away on a fishing boat, where he began work as a child labourer in a garment factory. He built his fortune through fashion empire Giordano, before becoming an outspoken democracy advocate following the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, when hundreds, if not thousands, of protesters fighting for political reforms in Beijing were killed. In 1994, Mr Lai become a full British citizen. Despite having never held a Chinese or Hong Kong passport, he is regarded as a Chinese citizen by Hong Kong authorities. Mr Lai began the producing Chinese-language and pro-democratic newspaper Apple Daily before the 1997 handover of Hong Kong from the UK to China, as he aimed to maintain freedom of speech in the territory. The paper was openly critical about the Chinese government. open image in gallery Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai, 72, poses during an interview with AFP at the Next Digital offices in Hong Kong ( AFP/Getty ) Why was he imprisoned? A known pro-democracy campaigner, Mr Lai was known to Chinese authorities ahead of the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, prompted by Beijings growing crackdown on wide-ranging freedoms through the national security law. Mr Lai described the legislation as "a death knell for Hong Kong", and his Apple Daily newspaper was critical of the reforms while being supportive of the protestors. On 10 August 2020, Mr Lai was arrested alongside his sons on the accusation of collusion with foreign forces and fraud. Later that year he became the first high-profile figure to be charged for allegedly conspiring and colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security, under the new legislation. He has since been charged and banned on separate cases of unlawful assembly and other crimes relating to pro-democratic protests in Hong Kong. On 15 December, Mr Lai was found guilty on multiple charges of sedition and foreign collusion, in a landmark moment for the citys draconian national security laws and sliding press freedoms. Judges depicted Mr Lai as the orchestrator of a campaign aimed at pressuring foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China, allegedly with the goal of bringing about the downfall of the ruling Communist Party. Lai has denied all the charges. The sentencing on 9 February capped the legal saga spanning almost five years. Three judges handpicked by Hong Kongs leadership sentenced Mr Lai to 20 years in jail on national security charges. Mr Lai's sentence of 20 years was within the harshest penalty "band" of 10 years to life imprisonment for offences of a "grave nature" and is the most severe punishment meted out yet under the new laws. The three judges said Mr Lai's sentence was enhanced by the fact that he was the "mastermind" and driving force behind "persistent" foreign collusion conspiracies. Lais declining health Mr Lai has spent much of his imprisonment in solitary confinement and his son has been outspoken about fears over his health. The millionaires son, Sebastien Lai, claimed last year that his father, who suffers from diabetes, had lost a significant amount of weight and that he had been denied independent medical care. open image in gallery Jimmy Lais son, Sebastien has hit out at his fathers treatment ( AFP via Getty Images ) Mr Lai's lawyer, Robert Pang, told the court that he had experienced some episodes where he felt that he was collapsing and had heart "palpitations", prompting the court to adjourn proceedings and order that he be provided with a heart monitor and medication. The Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, a US-based, non-profit advocacy organisation, said Mr Lai was an iconic figure in the battle between those who uphold democratic values and Hong Kongs authoritarian government. Responding to his conviction in December, its UK and Europe director Mark Sabah said: The trial against Jimmy Lai has been a grotesque exercise in legal subversion and chicanery a show trial masquerading as justice. But whats actually been on display is the complete and total destruction of Hong Kongs reputation as a global legal centre. My father has been treated inhumanely, his son, Sebastien Lai, previously told The Independent. But he is defiant and strong. It is ridiculous that in his display of bravery, the prime minister [Sir Keir] will not meet with me, he added. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thailands ruling conservative party has secured a surprise victory in the countrys general election, meaning prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul is likely to remain in power. With results reported from about 94 per cent of polling stations, the Election Commissions running count showed the ruling Bhumjaithai party securing roughly 193 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives. That leaves the party short of the 251 needed to govern alone and paves the way for coalition negotiations in the coming days. open image in gallery Thai prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul gestures as he arrives at the Government House in Bangkok on 9 February 2026 ( AFP via Getty Images ) The poll, held on Sunday, drew a turnout of about 65 per cent, lower than the 2023 election. It unfolded amid sluggish economic growth and a surge of nationalist sentiment following recent border tensions with Cambodia. Thailands lower house is elected through a mixed system. Four hundred lawmakers are chosen directly in constituency contests, while 100 seats are allocated from party lists in proportion to votes cast on a separate ballot indicating party preference. The final distribution of list seats may still change. open image in gallery Thailand's caretaker premier Anutin Charnvirakul was preparing for coalition talks after his conservative Bhumjaithai Party surged to a stunning election victory on a wave of nationalism ( AFP via Getty Images ) The progressive Peoples Party placed second with 118 seats, despite leading most pre-election surveys. It swept all constituencies in Bangkok and won most of those in surrounding provinces, and it topped the party-list vote with about 3.8 million more ballots than Bhumjaithai. Pheu Thai, the populist party long associated with former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, finished third on 74 seats, a poor showing for a movement that has often dominated Thai elections. It is widely expected to accept an invitation to join a Bhumjaithai-led coalition if one is offered. A collection of smaller parties won a combined 115 seats, according to Reuters calculations based on commission data. The result marks the first clear nationwide victory for a conservative party in several years. open image in gallery Thailand's caretaker prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai Party leader and prime ministerial candidate, arrives for a press conference at the party headquarters on the day of the general election, in Bangkok, Thailand, 8 February 2026 ( Reuters ) Analysts said Bhumjaithai benefitted from nationalist fervour sparked by a three-week clash with Cambodia in December and from deep-rooted patronage networks beyond Bangkok and other major cities. While the outcome diverged from earlier polling, it was not unexpected, said Napon Jatusripitak, director of the Center for Politics and Geopolitics at Thailand Future, a Bangkok-based think tank. The result may have resolved a recurring dilemma in Thai politics, whereby conservative interests have repeatedly intervened to curtail democratic politics after losing at the ballot box. Whether this configuration produces genuine stability, however, remains to be seen, he said. Mr Anutin has been prime minister since September. He dissolved parliament in December, less than 100 days into his term, after facing the threat of a no-confidence vote following the removal of his predecessor, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, over an ethics breach linked to relations with Cambodia. Flooding and financial scandals had dented his popularity before the border dispute allowed him to recast himself as a wartime leader, campaigning on national security and economic stimulus. open image in gallery A voter gestures after casting his ballot in Thailand's general election in Buriram on 8 February 2026 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Reacting to the outcome, Mr Anutin described it as a victory for all Thais. Asked about forming a government, he said he wanted a strong majority but would wait for the final count. We need a strong government, he said. He also reiterated hardline pledges tied to the border dispute. I will still have to build the wall. I must keep strengthening the military's capabilities. I believe Thai soldiers can win against anyone. And I still believe we need to keep the border checkpoints closed, not open them, he said. He has previously indicated that, if returned, the incumbent ministers for finance, foreign affairs and commerce would remain in their posts. The Peoples Party has ruled out joining a coalition led by Mr Anutin and said it would not attempt to assemble a rival administration. Financial markets welcomed the result, with Thai shares rising about 3 per cent to their highest level in more than a year as concerns about renewed political instability eased. Alongside the parliamentary vote, Thais were asked in a referendum whether parliament should be authorised to begin drafting a new constitution to replace the 2017 charter written under military rule. Polls at the end of January had the People's Party significantly ahead of Bhumjaithai, but analysts said the surge in nationalism provoked by the Cambodia conflict favoured the conservatives. Voters also backed a proposal to change the constitution, with nearly two-thirds in favour of replacing a charter put in place after a 2014 military coup, which critics say gave too much power to an undemocratic senate. It is expected to take at least two years to implement the new constitution, with two more referendums required to endorse the drafting process and the final text. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Prince William and Princess Catherine expressed concern for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein in a statement released Monday, the latest move by the British monarchy to distance itself from revelations about the former Prince Andrews relationship with the convicted sex offender. Britains most popular royals say that they were appalled by the contents of more than 3 million pages of documents released earlier this month by the U.S. Department of Justice. I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations, the palace said in a statement. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The statement released ahead of Williams three-day trip to Saudi Arabia, which begins Monday, is part of the monarchys response to the escalating crisis surrounding the former prince, who was stripped of his royal titles in October after previous revelations about his relationship with Epstein. King Charles IIIs 65-year-old brother is now known simply as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The king last week forced Mountbatten-Windsor to leave his longtime home at Royal Lodge near Windsor Castle, accelerating a move that was first announced in October but wasnt expected to be completed until later this year. Mountbatten-Windsor is now living on the kings Sandringham estate in eastern England. He will live temporarily at Wood Farm Cottage while his permanent home on the estate undergoes repairs. Sign up to our free money newsletter for investment analysis and expert advice to help you build wealth Sign up to our free money email for help building your wealth Sign up to our free money email for help building your wealth Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Another day, another deal for Elon Musk this time the small matter of creating a $1.25 trillion (900bn) firm by merging two of his existing ones together. SpaceX the company which sends out rockets, provides wifi by satellite and wants to eventually colonise Mars has now essentially enveloped the activities of xAI, an artificial intelligence-focused businesses which owns Grok, as well as the social media platform X and one of the biggest supercomputers on the planet called Colossus. The end result is a privately-owned business which is likely the most valuable on the planet. But it may not be so for long not because another will usurp it, but because Mr Musk wants to float SpaceX on the stock market later this year. The move will enable new investors to own a piece of the wide-ranging pie, while allowing existing ones to take a return on investments made along the way. The unification of MuskCorp SpaceX buying xAI for $250bn is not the first time that Musk has joined together his ventures. Only last year, X (or Twitter if you still prefer it) was bought up by xAI for $45bn, including $12bn of debt. It is something of a change of pace from his previous choice, where for example The Boring Company a venture which digs and makes superloops and other transport passages underground was spun out to a separate company from within SpaceX, back in 2018. He also remains CEO of another standalone firm founded in 2016, the brain implant company Neuralink. That might not be the end of the grouping together of the businesses that the richest man on the planet leads, with Tesla itself a $1.6tn (1.16tn) company listed in the US also part of the equation. Elon Musk has a clear ambition to bring all his companies under one umbrella. The merger is a big step in this direction, said Chris Beauchamp, chief market analyst at IG. open image in gallery Elon Musk ( AFP via Getty Images ) It is highly likely that Tesla and the SpaceX group will find themselves combined in due course once the latter has listed, consolidating Elon as not just one of the wealthiest men in the world but also one at the forefront of technological progress. Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, suggested a Tesla-SpaceX combination could even mean the latter might not need to go public. Speculation about a further combination with Tesla to build an effective MuskCorp, which could remove the need for a SpaceX IPO, has been bubbling away even if it looks like plans for the latters launch on the stock market are well advanced, he said. SpaceX: The giant IPO question It is almost certain that SpaceX will in fact float and, if it does so, it could well be the biggest in history, outstripping Saudi Aramcos near-$30bn raise from 2019. Some reports have estimated SpaceX could generate closer to $50bn. Whatever the value, it adds kudos and further renown to one of the most famous names in industry, particularly given the future-looking aspect of SpaceX with its visions of data centres in space and people on other planets. It also makes future sense from a business perspective, says Emma Wall, chief investment strategist at Hargreaves Lansdown but a longer-term requirement than is usual will be placed on those wanting to buy shares. Musk announced during Tesla recent results that he would be pivoting the business away from electric vehicles to automation and artificial intelligence, and this will be true of his space travel ambitions too, meaning there are technological synergies to be made across all his businesses, she said. What will be key is the markets view of the valuation. While Musk has a proven track record of delivery, he is a divisive figure and will be asking the market to value a company based on a multi-decade vision, where most CEOs operate a three to five year business cycle. However, investing in companies is not intended to be entirely speculative and even some of Musks more earth-bound companies, like EV manufacturer Tesla, has critics when it comes to future income versus current ideas. Much of the revenue generated by SpaceX right now comes from the Starlink satellite network, a big draw for potential investors to get hold of. However, how much they are willing to pay to now also have to take on board other aspects of the bigger company is up for question. Criticism and concerns An initial question for investors, for example, might be that they want to buy into rocket launches and humungous piles of data, but how much do they want to buy into an AI model which has come under intense criticism lately for reportedly creating millions of sexualised images, including when told consent was withheld, and is being investigated by UK regulators? What about investing in the social media platform hosting those images, which itself is being investigated by Paris officials over deepfakes and worse? In an all-under-one-umbrella setup, there is no choice to split that preference. open image in gallery ( AFP/Getty ) For all the grand talk of creating an innovation engine and engaging in space-based AI, some investors may feel the xAI deal affects the prospective appeal of SpaceX. The real moneymaker for this business is the Starlink satellite internet business rather than the higher profile space rocket arm, said Mr Mould. The ownership of xAI, as well as further diluting exposure to Starlink, could be seen as exposing SpaceX to negative headlines and regulatory action given the recent controversies around Grok being used to create inappropriate images. Aside from those regulatory issues, theres a more specific question around whether buyers believe in space industries, artificial intelligence or both, and whether theyd want to have to have them grouped together in the same company rather than valuing them on their own respective merits. And yet, betting on Musk has previously proven lucrative for big investors, and, in the long run, correct for multiple companies progression. For James Bruegger, chief investment officer at Seraphim Space, a company which invests in others around the tech and space intersection, theres simply a one-way journey to the future and its one where both industries are merged just as much as xAI and SpaceX now are. The impact of space technology will be every bit as profound as AI, he said. Space is already an essential layer of global infrastructure, and as AI continues to grow exponentially, the two domains will become inseparable. Space will underpin every sector of the global economy, from defence, connectivity and climate intelligence to nextgeneration compute. This deal is a powerful signal that the future of AI will be built in orbit. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Prosecutors said on Monday there is overwhelming evidence that Kosovos former president and three other defendants are guilty of the murder and torture of people they considered traitors during the countrys war for independence. Hashim Thaci resigned from office in 2020 to defend himself against the 10 charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed during his countrys 1998-99 war for independence from Serbia at a tribunal in The Hague. Prosecutor Kimberly West told judges that witnesses and victims so yearned for the truth to come out that they were willing to risk a climate of intimidation to testify at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers, which is based in the Netherlands but is part of Kosovos legal system. The staff at the European Union-backed court are largely international due to fears about witness safety and security. In 2022, the court convicted two leaders of a Kosovo war veterans association for intimidating witnesses by publicizing leaked confidential documents. A second trial for Thaci for intimidating witnesses will begin later this month. Those who testified provided overwhelming evidence that Thaci and his fellow accused, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniq, pursued a policy of targeting political opponents and civilians perceived as collaborators and traitors as commanders of the Kosovo Liberation Army. Each is charged with offenses including murder, torture and persecution allegedly committed across Kosovo and northern Albania from 1998 to September 1999, during and after the war. Prosecutors have asked for a 45-year sentence for all four men. I am fully not guilty, Thaci, who went by the nickname The Snake during the war, said when the trial opened in 2023. The other three defendants also repeated not guilty pleas made at earlier pretrial hearings. Thaci was a student who came out of what he described as political exile in Switzerland to join Kosovos struggle for independence from Serbia. He was embraced by Western leaders, who invited him to 1999 peace talks in France in his role as political director of the Kosovo Liberation Army, and was seen as a leader who could guide the country toward independence. Many Kosovars consider the court an injustice and view it as an attempt to rewrite their history, saying its trying to equalize Serbias genocide to their suffering. Most of the 13,000 people who died in the 1998-1999 war in Kosovo were ethnic Albanians. A 78-day campaign of NATO airstrikes against Serbian forces ended the fighting. About 1 million ethnic Albanian Kosovars were driven from their homes. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A bowel cancer patient has become the first to have life-saving surgery using a new multi-million-pound robot at a Kent hospital. Mandy Lee from Whitstable who had originally dismissed her bowel cancer symptoms as stress related, had part of her bowel removed after doctors discovered a small growth known as a polyp was cancerous. It was a bit of a scary thought, I hadnt even considered the possibility of robotic surgery, but I just wanted the cancer gone and I wasnt put off, the 58-year-old said. Ms Lee said surgeons assured her that the robot had been used elsewhere in Europe with good results, and was less invasive than other options. The surgical robot, called Hugo, has been installed at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate. open image in gallery The multi-million-pound surgical robot, called Hugo, has been installed at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate ( East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust ) The robot has four arms that are operated remotely by the surgeon, who has a 3D view inside the patients body thanks to a camera on one of the arms. The others are used for surgical tools, and patients are left with keyhole scars. The Hugo robot was first used by the NHS at Guys and St Thomass Hospital in 2023. Although East Kent Hospitals teams have used Da Vinci robots surgical systems developed for enhanced precision and control at Kent and Canterbury Hospital for 15 years, this is the first time colorectal robotic surgery has been possible at the Trust. Retired plasterer Stanley Russell, from Herne Bay, was the second patient to have a robotic procedure at the hospital, after a routine screening test detected blood in his stool. The 68-year-old grandad needed part of his bowel removed after a polyp was discovered to be cancerous. He was told surgery using the robot would be less painful than going through more invasive surgery. Following the surgery the patient said hes feeling better every day. open image in gallery The robot has four arms that are operated remotely by the surgeon, who has a 3D view inside the patients body thanks to a camera on one of the arms ( East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust ) Consultant colorectal and general surgeon Sudhaker Mangam, who led the procedures with consultant general surgeon Joseph Sebastian, said it was a significant milestone for the team. He added: This marks a major advancement in surgical capability for East Kent patients, enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and faster recovery times. The introduction of robotics means we can offer people minimally invasive procedures, which mean less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to their normal activities. The NHS National Cancer Plan, pledges to increase the amount of robotic surgery for cancer patients, up from 70,000 a year to half a million by 2035 - meaning more patients could benefit from less invasive surgeries and faster recovery times. Nuha Yassin, a consultant colorectal surgeon, warned that while robotics can improve precision, it is not a replacement for decision making. Ms Yassin, who is the Royal College of Surgeons England council lead for the future of surgery, robotics and digital surgery, told The Independent: Robotic systems can give surgeons greater precision, improved visualisation and enhanced dexterity, supporting minimally invasive procedures. This may reduce complications, shorten hospital stays and help patients recover more quickly. The NHS cancer plan sets out an ambition to expand access to robotic surgery, reflecting its potential to support high-quality, minimally invasive treatment for some patients. As adoption increases across the NHS, it is important that innovation is matched with robust evidence, high-quality training and strong clinical governance. Equity of access and consistent national standards will be essential as robotic surgery expands. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice People who attended the annual March for Life rally in Washington, D.C., last month may have been exposed to measles, according to local health officials. There were multiple confirmed cases of the highly infectious disease in and around the District at the time of the pro-life event, which thousands are believed to have attended. People may have been exposed between January 21 and February 2 at Union Station, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the Catholic University of America, according to the citys health department. DC Health was notified of multiple confirmed cases of measles whose carriers visited multiple locations in the District while contagious, authorities wrote in a release. DC Health is informing people who were at these locations that they may have been exposed. open image in gallery People who attended the March for Life rally in Washington, D.C., last month had measles, according to public health officials ( Getty Images ) The warning comes as cases have surged in the District and across the country, ballooning to the highest level seen in decades and threatening Americas long-held elimination status, which was earned in 2000. On Thursday, federal health officials reported 733 confirmed cases in states from coast to coast - but the biggest outbreak would grow even larger by Friday. In South Carolina, where some children sickened with the virus have experienced life-threatening brain swelling, the states Department of Public Health said there were 44 new cases of measles, bringing the total up to 920. State health officials cautioned people that they may have been exposed at a Target in Taylors, as well as a Boost Mobile store, a restaurant and the Social Security Administration in Spartanburg. There are currently 277 people in quarantine and eight in isolation. The latest end of quarantine for these is March 2, the department wrote. But even as infections have continued to impact the Palmetto state, state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell has stressed that the response has accelerated to meet the crisis. Last month was the best month for measles vaccination during the outbreak, she said. open image in gallery Measles can spread through the air, leading to life-threatening complications like brain swelling ( Getty Images ) While measles can spread easily through the air, often leading to a fever, rash, vomiting and diarrhea; two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine offer 97 percent protection. Thats how the U.S. eliminated the highly infectious measles virus 26 years ago. However, experts have said rising vaccine hesitancy, uncertainty about basic facts related to the vaccine and misinformation have led to falling measles vaccination rates. Most of the cases over the past year have been in unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals. Last week, Democratic South Carolina State Sen. Margie Bright Matthews filed a bill that could ban people from claiming religious exemptions for the vaccine. Just days later, Dr. Mehmet Oz, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator, urged Americans to get their doses. Take the vaccine, please, he pleaded. We have a solution for our problem. His message comes just days after the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions top deputy said losing the elimination status would be the cost of doing business in a global economy. Only six cases of measles have been reported among international visitors to the U.S. this year, according tot he agency. The two primary British protagonists implicated in the Epstein files Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson have spent the last week competing with each other for invidious headlines. The latter has briefly overtaken interest in Andrew, when it was revealed that the now former Labour lord weaponised his position as business secretary to share confidential state information with a convicted paedophile on the other side of the Atlantic. This extraordinary abuse of power has seen the current Labour prime minister, Keir Starmer, fighting off questions concerning his own judgement and that of his party. However, ex-prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and the royal family he belongs to are never far behind. Today, King Charles was heckled once again over his brother Andrews association with Jeffrey Epstein, during a royal visit to Lancashire. This comes after his younger brother was left to fend off an Epstein query on stage in Dubai last week. Prince Edwards initial response with the best will in the world, I am not sure this is the audience that is probably the least bit interested in that could not have been further from the mark. Today, as William was set to begin an official visit to Saudi Arabia, a royal spokesperson said: I can confirm The Prince and Princess have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The statement contained no direct reference to Epstein, Andrew or his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and for many, it further compounded the perception that the royal family has failed to grasp the enormity of the problem in front of them. Once more Andrew has placed his family at the epicentre of this sordid global story, with the drip feed of compromising information almost constant: disturbing pictures of the former prince on all fours looming over the body of a young woman, jocular emails with Epstein promising more plotting and the privacy of Buckingham Palace, and a fresh police enquiry into allegations that Epstein trafficked a woman to the UK for Andrews pleasure. It is no small wonder that in the immediate aftermath of this latest Epstein file dump, the British prime minister channelled his inner lawyer in response to journalists quickfire questions. On the final leg of an epic Asian tour, the emboldened PM urged the former prince to give evidence before a US congressional committee, concluding with the prescient words: You cant be victim-centred if youre not prepared to do that. Starmer would not be drawn on whether Andrew should apologise, and nor did he explicitly state that the Kings brother should submit himself to congressional interrogation, but his response left few in any doubt: Yes, in terms of testifying, I have always said anybody who has got any information should be prepared to share that information in whatever form they are asked to do that. In what was a clear departure from Starmers previous claim that to testify was a decision for Andrew alone, the prime minister provided grist to the mill for an American administration quick to shift the blame. Asked if Andrew should give evidence, vice-president JD Vance replied: I saw Keir Starmer said something about this. Im certainly open to it. The cumulative impact of this political approach is unwelcome at the palace. By all accounts, the King was taken aback to discover that the latest graphic Andrew revelations were accompanied by a seemingly direct intervention from His Majestys prime minister. Taken in conjunction with news that Bill and Hillary Clinton will now give evidence in front of the congressional committee, at the same time as Andrew could be subject to another police investigation, all serve to put unwelcome pressure on His Majesty. Starmers strident response in relation to the Andrew question has proved particularly irksome, primarily because it had not been run past the palace. According to one inside source, the King was both incandescent that Starmer suggested Andrew should give evidence, and likewise annoyed that he had not been consulted beforehand. open image in gallery Bolted: Andrew is said to have gone to Sandringham to avoid media attention last night ( Reuters ) Constitutionally, political statements involving the royal family are usually run past the royal family. (Which perhaps explains why the Andrew question is such a festering mess.) But in a departure from political norms, that was not the case. Miles from home, retrospectively basking in the unfettered adulation of China and a receptive Japan, Starmer briefly forgot his constitutional manners. A subconscious slip? Or a deliberate side-step? After all, it must irritate our beleaguered prime minister that he cannot shift the dial on his own dismal public standing, while the King currently enjoys 60 per cent approval ratings and says nothing. Likewise, when I asked the palace to confirm the rumour that the King was piqued with his prime minister, answer came there none. Which brings us back to the question of Andrew, and its implications for the monarchy. Until Starmer mooted the ex-Dukes appearance in front of a congressional committee, presumably His Majesty believed royaltys belated defenestration of his younger brother would suffice. The presumption was that a downgrade to a free farmhouse on the Sandringham Estate and the removal of numerous titles and honours would be punishment enough for an ex-prince who loved to play with the worlds most notorious paedophile and subsequently lie about it. But now Starmers comments have taken on a life of their own, none of this reflects well on the royal household. After all, Queen Camilla has been refreshingly forthright on the subject of domestic abuse and violence against women. Her Majesty has made a TV documentary about the subject, hosts events at the palace for prominent campaigning charities, and in an October 2025 statement regarding Andrews further withdrawal from public life, both the King and Queen insisted their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse. Quite so. As Starmer insisted: victim-centred sympathies must be backed up through action. In Andrews case, by giving evidence. All of which has led people to ask, if our weak prime minister can say it, why cant the King? And therein lies the rub. open image in gallery Hand-off: Keir Starmers comments have put the spotlight on King Charles ( Getty ) Constitutionally, the monarch should not direct or pressure anyone including his brother in legal matters. Convention demands that the sovereign remains politically neutral and above legal and parliamentary processes both at home and abroad. Last week, Prince Edward, as a mere duke, was under no such restriction, yet his victim-focused answer suggests the royal family is keen to steer away from suggestions that Andrew should testify. Like us, the royal family are unsure of the exact scope of the former princes nefarious relationship with Epstein. But they do know that the arrogant former Duke is loose with the truth. To date, Andrews buffoonery has been limited to the 2019 BBC Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis, but the prospect of him giving evidence under oath in America is a very different matter. The result would be an almighty media and legal circus, with potentially dire ramifications for both him and the wider royal family who many feel protected him for too long. Here, it is worth pointing out, lying under oath in the US is an imprisonable offence, and one of the many reasons why Andrews chum, Ghislaine Maxwell, is currently languishing in prison. At the moment, protected within Britains legal jurisdiction, Andrew, unlike the Clintons, cannot be threatened with contempt of court. But by mooting the prospect of his cooperation, Starmer has flicked a political switch, and placed unwelcome onus on the King. A big no-no in the playbook of constitutional monarchy and one which could have consequences for our beleaguered Labour prime minister. The weekly audience between monarch and first minister usually takes place on a Wednesday, when the King could have reminded Starmer of his right to be consulted. Maybe Charles went further and exercised his right to warn. A gentle reminder of constitutional propriety is not unheard of between a sovereign and his prime minister. open image in gallery Oh brother: Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, fended off questions about his brothers relationship with Epstein ( Getty ) Although the exchanges are private, history tells us that the late Queens reign wasnt immune to tensions with No 10; low points included differences with Thatcher over South African apartheid and sanctions, the death of Diana when Blairs focus on the peoples princess was at odds with Elizabeths, and in her last years, the late Queen was a victim of Brexit fallout, with Boris Johnson proroguing parliament only to be overruled by the Supreme Court. It is unlikely that any rift between Charles and Starmer will last long; after all, the latter requires a good working relationship with his monarch if only to help manage Donald Trump. And the prime ministers own flirtation with a victim-centred approach is being questioned in light of his decision to make Mandelson our US ambassador. In this era of showmanship and strongmen, the cold reality is that the rules-based order that suggests privileged men who cavorted with paedophiles should give evidence to court hearings is wishful thinking on behalf of lefty lawyers (cue Starmer). Realpolitik dictates that Andrew cannot be allowed to ever speak in public again, let alone give evidence under oath. If that means his protectors, the royal family, look hypocritical, so be it. While other royal players enjoy more freedom, constitutionally, the King has very little wiggle room. The only court that will judge whether the Windsors have dodged a curveball is the court of public opinion. It was Wallis Simpsons unpopularity in middle England that saw government advice directly conflict with the wishes of Edward VIII in 1936. The King chose marriage over monarchy and abdicated. Today, the stakes are not nearly as high, but nor is monarchy as popular. At the moment, the King, reigning over the demise of a fallen prince, is enjoying unprecedented poll ratings proof if any were needed that the public is fickle. However, the long-term royal trajectory is downwards, and if Charles is not careful, history might judge this Carolingian era as the beginning of the end of popular constitutional monarchy. Tessa Dunlop is the author of Elizabeth and Philip, the Story of Young Love, Marriage and Monarchy For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In a city long defined by conflict, Somalia s capital of Mogadishu now echoes with the crash of pins at the country's first modern bowling alley. It's the latest sign of revival in the once-thriving Indian Ocean port shaped by 35 years of civil war and militant bombings. Millions of people were forced to flee what became one of the worlds most dangerous cities. Those who remained avoided public spaces as the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabab waged an insurgency against the Somali state. In recent years, improved security measures against al-Shabab, an expanded government presence and growing private investment have allowed daily life to re-emerge. Cafes line newly reopened streets, beaches draw evening crowds and traffic congestion, once unimaginable, now clogs key intersections. The Feynuus Bowling Center opened last year and draws many locals and Somalis returning from the diaspora, who bring investment and business ideas after years of sending billions of dollars in remittances from abroad. On a recent evening, young Somalis gathered in groups, laughing and filming each other on their phones while music played. Many from the diaspora are visiting Mogadishu for the first time in years, or the first time ever. I couldnt believe Mogadishu has this place, said Hudoon Abdi, a Somali-Canadian on holiday, as she prepared to take her turn to bowl. Im enjoying it. Mogadishu is actually safe, she said, urging others to visit. Mogadishu remains vulnerable to militant attacks, however, with security measures like checkpoints and heavily guarded zones part of daily life. Non-Somalis remain largely confined to a compound at the international airport. But residents say the ability to gather for recreation signals an important psychological shift. Such venues provide a welcoming environment for a younger generation eager for safe spaces to socialize. Abukar Hajji returned from the United Kingdom on holiday after many years away and found the difference between what he imagined and what he experienced eye-opening. When I was flying from the U.K., I believed it was a scary place, like a war-torn country, he said. Everyone told me, Good luck, but when I came and saw it with my own eyes, I didnt want to leave. Sadaq Abdurahman, the manager of the bowling center, said the idea for the business emerged from a growing demand among young people for recreational facilities. It has created employment opportunities for at least 40 youths," he said. According to the Somali National Bureau of Statistics, Somalias unemployment rate stands at 21.4%. The bowling alley has private security guards, bag checks and surveillance cameras, reflecting the precautions common at public venues in Mogadishu. Urban planners and economists say businesses like the bowling alley signal a broader shift in Mogadishus recovery, as private sector growth increasingly complements international aid and government-led rebuilding efforts. Ahmed Khadar Abdi Jama, a lecturer in economics at the University of Somalia, said innovative businesses are responding to the needs of diaspora returnees and the growing middle class, "which in turn adds to the expected increase in Somalias GDP. Outside the bowling alley, traffic hummed and neon signs flickered, other reminders of Mogadishus fragile transformation. ___ For more on Africa and development: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A nursery worker has been found guilty of sexually abusing children in a horrific case that was every parents nightmare. Nathan Bennett was caught on CCTV displaying predatory behaviour toward young children, including putting his hands down the trousers of a child, as he worked at the Partou King Street nursery in Bristol. After his arrest following a six-month police investigation, a trial at Bristol Crown Court was told Bennett showed a jealous attachment with five children and would take control of them. On Monday, the 30-year-old was found guilty of eight charges, including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration, relating to children aged two or three. He previously admitted to 13 other charges relating to four of the five victims, who were aged two at the time. Virginia Cornwall, prosecuting, told the jury at the beginning of the trial that the events at the now-closed nursery were you may think, every parents nightmare. Following Bennetts conviction, the families of the victims said they were devastated by the horrific abuse children have suffered at the hands of someone whom we all trusted to care for them. open image in gallery Bennett was found guilty at Bristol Crown Court ( PA ) The trial heard how, less than a year after Bennett began working at the nursery in July 2024, the manager, Victoria Tutton, saw CCTV footage showing him placing his hands down a childs trousers, and reported him to the police. The jury was told how staff had noted him sit children on his lap for lengthy periods of time, wear a pair of trousers with holes in the crotch area, and seemed territorial over certain toddlers and their parents. During the trial, one of the victims, referred to in court as Child E, gave evidence, aged just three. He described how he was sexually assaulted by Bennett in the toilet area of the nursery. Then I turned around and he was gone, the boy said. Giving evidence, Bennett, of Corston, Bath, said he was emulating what was done to him as a child and denied having a sexual attraction to children. He was convicted of two charges of raping a child, four charges of sexual assault of a child and two charges of assault of a child by penetration. Bennett previously pleaded guilty to eight charges sexual assault of a child, four charges of causing a child to engage in sexual activity and one charge of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. Following the jurys verdict, Bennett was remanded in custody by Judge William Hart ahead of sentencing on 16 March. I will sentence you for what will inevitably be a very long sentence of custody, the judge warned Bennett. After Bennett was sent down, families of the abused children said they had been left devastated by Bennetts crimes. In a statement issued by law firm Leigh Day, which represents several of the families involved, they said: Nothing can begin to explain the shock, anger and heartbreak we feel or the profound and lasting impact we are sure this will have on families. The children were innocent and completely vulnerable; they were in a place that should have been safe. The families are now calling for answers on why Bennett was allowed to work with young children and what checks were made. Detective Constable Bethany Cook, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: "Nathan Bennett was trusted to care for very young children, but instead committed sexual offences against them at his place of work. This investigation involving such young children was deeply challenging and distressing for all concerned, and I would like to commend the support and strength shown by those families. This case has caused significant anxiety for other families whose children attended the nursery during the time these offences were committed and, when appropriate, weve tried to keep them informed. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thames Valley Police said it is assessing claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein. Emails released by the US Department of Justice last month appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then special adviser, Amir Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and talks. Andrew then appeared to loop Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on Christmas Eve of 2010. open image in gallery A photograph appearing to show Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor crouched over an unidentified woman which has been released in the latest disclosure of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein ( US Department of Justice ) A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed they were assessing fresh allegations after Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations. Mr Smith said in a post on social media platform X: I have now reported Andrew to the [Thames Valley Police] for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets in relation to these specific allegations. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson. open image in gallery Andrews relationship with Epstein dates back to the 1990s ( PA ) Thames Valley Police said: We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures. It comes after the force last week said it was assessing allegations that a woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew in 2010. Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing over his links to the disgraced financier but has not directly responded to the latest allegations. This will be the latest blow for the former prince after the tranche of 3 million files revealed a photo of him leaning over the body of an unidentified woman. The images, undated with no caption, appeared to show the former duke touching the womans abdomen. Elsewhere in the document dump, screenshots and scans appear to show Andrew exchanged emails with Epstein about a beautiful Russian woman, even inviting him to Buckingham Palace in an August 2010 exchange. In response, the former prince appears to ask Epstein if it is good to be free months after his release from prison for procuring a girl under the age of 18 for prostitution. open image in gallery William and Kate supported the Kings decision to strip Andrew of his titles ( PA ) That same month, Andrew could be seen in a separate email apparently telling Epstein: Wish I was still a pet in your family. The former duke paid millions of pounds in 2022 to his main accuser, the late Virginia Giuffre a woman he claims never to have met. Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge last week and moved onto the Kings private Sandringham Estate after notice was served to surrender his lease last year. Buckingham Palace also announced he would stop using his titles and honours, including the Duke of York. His brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, said it was important to remember the victims in the first words spoken by a royal since the latest tranche of documents came out. open image in gallery The Duke of Edinburgh affirmed it was important to remember the victims ( PA ) Kensington Palace issued a statement on behalf of William and Kate, which affirmed they were concerned about new revelations from the Epstein files. I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations, a spokesperson said. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. When asked how he was coping by a CNN journalist during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Prince Edward said: Well, with the best will in the world, Im not sure this is the audience that is the least bit interested in that. They all came here to listen to education, solving the future, but no, I think its all really important, always, to remember the victims and who are the victims in all this. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The former Duke of York Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor allegedly shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The US Department of Justice released emails between Andrew and the paedophile financier, who killed himself in 2019, earlier in February. They appear to show the former duke sharing reports of his official visits to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. One November 2010 email was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special advisor, Amir Patel. Andrew conducted meetings and trade talks during the visits, which were made in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The messages came after Epstein was convicted in 2008 of soliciting a minor for prostitution. Andrew previously told BBCs Newsnight in 2019 he had cut off contact with the convicted paedophile in December 2010 during a visit to New York. On 9 February 2011, Andrew told Epstein that he had visited a private equity firm the week before and thought of you. Official government guidance says that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, the guidance read. open image in gallery Andrew has come under even more scrutiny after the latest round of Epstein files were released ( PA Wire ) This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply. The former duke served as the UKs special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. Vince Cable, business secretary at the time, told the BBC of the emails: I was unaware of Andrew sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before; this is the first Ive heard of it. The former duke features a number of times in the latest release of documents, including images apparently showing him crouched over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epsteins New York mansion. In 2022, the former duke paid millions of pounds to Virginia Giuffre, his main accuser, despite claiming never to have met her. The King later stripped him of his titles following the posthumous release of a book by Ms Giuffre, who alleges that she was trafficked by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, at the age of 17. open image in gallery This photo released by the US Department of Justice appears to show Andrew with Virginia Giuffre, centre, and Maxwell ( PA ) It is understood that Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge and relocated to Norfolk to a property on the Kings Sandringham estate earlier this month, reported by The Sun to be Wood Farm Cottage, where he will stay temporarily. It is understood that the former dukes new home, Marsh Farm, is not yet fully ready, but he is expected to move in by the start of April. It was known the former prince would be moving out of Royal Lodge in the new year and the development is not thought to be linked to the latest revelations in the Epstein papers. Andrew still has the lease for his Windsor property until October, but it is understood he has made the substantive part of his move to his new home. However, it may take some weeks to complete and the former prince is likely to be seen at Royal Lodge on occasion. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A popular French bakery brand is urgently recalling its chocolate-filled brioches over concerns they may be unsafe to eat. Brioche Pasquier warned the Pitch product may contain hard white plastic, meaning they could also be a possible choking hazard. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced the bakery brand has asked people who purchased six-packs of its Pitch chocolate and hazelnut brioches that have a best-before date of 4 March to return them due to "the potential presence of hard white plastic". It is not known how the plastic ended up in the brioches which are sold by several UK retailers and supermarkets, including Asda, Tesco and Ocado. Only the Pitch chocolate-filled brioches sold in 225g packs of six (6 x 37.5g) with the batch code UK 034 are affected by the recall. No other batch code or other products are affected. The batch code and expiry date can be found on the back of the pack. Customers who bought the affected product are advised to contact Brioche Pasquiers customer care team at technical@briochepasquier.com or via its website by visiting the Contact Us tab. The FSA issues recall notices for products when there is a potential risk to safety. Point-of-sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores selling this product to explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought it. As well as posing a choking risk, pieces of plastic can also cause damage to the digestive system if ingested by scratching the lining of the throat, oesophagus, stomach, or intestines, leading to pain, bleeding, and infection. The recall comes after the FSA confirmed there have been more than 30 reports of children with symptoms of toxin poisoning linked to recent recalls by Danone and Nestle. The FSA confirmed on 30 January that arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, vital for infant development and added to formula for non-breastfed babies, was the affected ingredient. It then emerged that the contamination that led to both recalls originated from a shared, third-party ingredient supplier. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The St Georges cross must not be used to intimidate others, Church of England (CofE) bishops have warned amid the growing use of Christian symbols by the far right. Seven leading bishops, including Bishop of Leicester Martyn Snow, have called for Englands national flag to be a symbol of unity and criticised those seeking to sow division and misunderstanding by using the flag as a symbol of anti-migrant sentiment. A trend for hoisting St Georges flags began last summer, driven by a group called Raise the Colours who were backed by far-right figures including Tommy Robinson. open image in gallery Flags hang from lamp posts on Westminster Bridge in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, last August ( Getty ) The St Georges cross, the union flag, and wooden crosses were also prominent features of Robinsons Unite the Kingdom nationalist march, which attracted up to 150,000 people to London in September last year. The UK Independence Party (Ukip), which has become increasingly focused on Christian nationalism under new leader Nick Tenconi, has also used a symbol of a cross in their new party logo, which has been compared with the Iron Cross used by the Nazi Party. The party, which had a previous yellow and purple pound emblem as its logo, has denied that the symbol is an Iron Cross, instead insisting it is a Cross Pattee, a Christian symbol. Both Ukip leader Mr Tenconi and members of Raise the Colours have made trips to northern France to intimidate refugees living destitute there. open image in gallery Protesters wave flags during the Unite The Kingdom rally on Westminster Bridge by the Houses of Parliament on 13 September 2025 ( Getty ) In a lengthy statement issued on Sunday, seven CofE bishops from across the country said: We reject the use of Christian symbols by those who seek to use them to intimidate others. Sadly, in recent months, we have seen these symbols used by people who, far from working for unity in the nation, are seeking to sow division and misunderstanding. This leaves many in our society feeling anxious and afraid and is a long way from loving our neighbour in the way that Jesus taught. The bishops, among them Arun Arora (Kirkstall), Toby Howarth (Bradford) and Michael Volland (Birmingham), said that they rejoice that the flag of St George is the national flag of England and contains a cross as a sign of our Christian heritage, but warned that the flag cannot be owned by any one group or cause. open image in gallery Ukip party leader Nick Tenconi addresses a rally at Marble Arch in October last year ( PA ) They acknowledged that many in our communities are concerned by both the perception and realities of the issues of migration and said churches can be places where different views on immigration are listened to with respect and empathy. They warned that their congregations have shared expressions of concern from those who feel threatened by those who seek to blame migrants as the main cause for economic and other challenges. open image in gallery Bishop Arun Arora is one of the seven CofE bishops who have warned against groups seeking to intimidate others with the St Georges Cross ( St Paul's Cathedral/YouTube ) The statement, also from the London bishops of Barking, Croydon and Willesden, continues: We have seen this spill over into racist abuse and violence and acknowledge the fear and unease expressed by those who have felt less safe in their own communities and workplaces in recent months. Their intervention comes after the Bishop of Manchester hit out at fake claims that Christmas was cancelled at the end of last year. Church of England issues Christmas is for all message ahead of Tommy Robinson carols rally">Writing in The Independent, the Right Reverend David Walker said it was offensive that people were appropriating this great Christian festival of light triumphing over darkness as a prop in a dim culture war. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hundreds of flood alerts and warnings are in place across the UK on Monday after the Met Office issued weather warnings for more heavy rain this week. Bands of heavy rain are set to batter parts of the south of England and Wales as a yellow weather warning is in place during Monday afternoon and evening, the forecaster said. At least 10 to 15mm of rain is likely fairly widely with 20 to 30mm expected in areas exposed to strong south to south-easterly winds, as the showers move in an easterly direction. open image in gallery Heavy rain will batter the south of England and Wales on Monday ( Met Office ) The Met Office warned that flooding on roads could cause travel disruption, impacting bus and train services, and also affect homes and businesses. There is also a chance of some interruption to power supplies, the forecaster warned. Further yellow weather warnings have been issued for persistent and at times heavy rain over Scotland all day on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a sprinkling of snow. Around 15 to 30mm of rain could fall widely on Tuesday, with 40 to 60mm possible in places over higher ground, impacting Central, Tayside, Fife and Grampian. Some snow may affect the highest roads in Aberdeenshire by the end of Tuesday. open image in gallery Tuesday's rain warning will cover parts of north-east Scotland ( Met Office ) On Wednesday, a further 20 to 30mm of rain could fall, with potential for another 40 to 60mm building up over high ground. As freezing levels lower from the North, snow is likely to fall above 300 to 400m, especially across Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perthshire, where 5 to 10cm of snow may accumulate by the end of Wednesday. open image in gallery Wednesday's weather warning is set to cover a wider part of Scotland ( Met Office ) Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has issued 108 flood warnings, where flooding is expected across England, and 218 flood alerts, where deluge is possible. A map shows south Wiltshire and Dorset, as well as parts of Gloucestershire and the West Midlands, would be hotspots for flooding. Only two flood alerts and four warnings are in place across Scotland on Monday, while Wales has seven alerts in place. The UK continues to face a persistent rainy spell, after the Met Office confirmed last week that rain had been recorded on every day of the year so far. open image in gallery There are hundreds of flood alerts and warnings in place across England on Monday ( Environment Agency ) After recording 36 days of rain in a row, Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon told The Independent: Rain has been reported somewhere in the network every day of the year so far. While amounts are trivial on some days, and some areas will have seen dry days, the UK has seen a wet start to the year, particularly in Northern Ireland and southern England. This has largely been down to a succession of fronts or low-pressure systems arriving from the west, bringing heavy rain at times, as well as damaging winds for some. Theres little sign of a let-up in the current forecast, with further unsettled weather in the coming days and over the weekend. open image in gallery The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has numerous flood alerts active ( PA Wire ) Northern Ireland recorded its wettest January in 149 years the second wettest on record after Storm Chandra brought record-breaking rainfall across a number of UK sites. Katesbridge in County Down recorded a staggering 100.8mm of rain, far surpassing the previous site record of 38.2mm from 2005, on 26 January. Dunkeswell Aerodrome in Devon reached 52.8mm, while Hurn in Dorset, Cardinham in Cornwall, and Plymouth Mountbatten in Devon all exceeded their previous daily records. open image in gallery Already, parts of Leicestershire have seen flooded roads ( PA ) Met Office weather forecast for the week Monday A grey start for many with outbreaks of rain and drizzle. Staying largely cloudy, although some brighter spells possible. Heavy rain and strong winds pushing into the South West with a risk of flooding. Rather mild in the South. Cloudy skies for most tonight with further outbreaks of rain. Heavy rain and strong winds gradually easing in the South West. Tuesday Another dull start with outbreaks of rain and drizzle. A spell of heavy rain will move into the South, followed by sunshine and showers. Staying cloudy and damp elsewhere. Outlook for Wednesday to Friday Staying unsettled at first with further outbreaks of rain for many. Turning colder and brighter on Friday with a chance of snow showers, particularly in the North and East. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice King Charles was heckled again over his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during a royal visit to Lancashire on Monday morning. As he met well-wishers at Clitheroe train station in Lancashire, a man shouted at Charles: How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Most of the crowd booed the question and Charles appeared to not react. Last Thursday, the King and Queen were heckled during a royal walkabout in the Essex village of Dedham. One person shouted: Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew? The royal family remain engulfed in the scandal following the latest tranche of Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice last month, resulting in a string of allegations against Andrew and his relationship with Epstein. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. There was also a picture in the files that appeared to show Andrew on the floor with a woman. open image in gallery A heckler asked King Charles how long he had known about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors association with Epstein during his visit to Clitheroe on Monday morning ( The Independent ) The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UKs trade envoy. The former duke has always denied any wrongdoing. On Monday, the Prince and Princess of Wales spoke out publicly for the first time on the scandal, saying they were deeply concerned, and their thoughts are with the victims. Last week, Prince Edward also commented, stating it was really important always to remember the victims when questioned over the latest release of files. Charles and Queen Camilla have not spoken publically on Andrew since the last release of files last year, when they shared their thoughts and utmost sympathies with the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse. The statement came as part of an announcement stripping Andrew of his last remaining titles. open image in gallery A photograph appearing to show Andrewcrouched over an unidentified woman released in the latest disclosure of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein ( PA ) On Monday, when appearing outside Clitheroe railway station, Charles was met with people wearing Union flag hats when the heckler shouted at him. Charles continued to shake peoples hands while some in the crowd booed the heckler. Soon after, Charles waved goodbye before getting into a car. The huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein has also led to police launching a investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. On Sunday, Sir Keir Starmers Downing Street chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned over his role in the appointment of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. Pressure remains on the prime minister over Lord Mandelson, as ministers await the publication of files relating to his appointment. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Guards escorting migrants back to France under the one in, one out scheme fell asleep on a deportation flight, a report into removals has revealed. A report from the prisons inspectorate published on Monday also said the migrants being deported to France were unable to understand what was happening because interpreters werent available. The controversial one in, one out scheme, which launched last August, returns small boat migrants to France in exchange for other asylum seekers. Some 367 people have come to the UK under the programme, with 305 people sent back, according to the latest figures. Home secretary Shabana Mahmood has said the government obviously want to see much larger numbers of people being deported under the scheme. She said the pilot scheme has proved the concept but issues like French capacity to take in large numbers and the amount of UK detention space were limiting the schemes expansion. Inspectors monitored a removal flight from Stansted airport to Paris that included 20 male detainees, 58 escorts and two paramedics. They said most of the detainees were aware that they were being deported to France but didnt understand what would happen to them on arrival. open image in gallery A Border Force vessel delivers migrants to Dover port after intercepting a small boat crossing last year ( Getty ) The report said that treatment of detainees by escort staff was mostly good, with staff polite, friendly, and respectful. However they noticed that staff would sometimes have prolonged conversations over the heads of the migrants, and would swear in front of detainees. In another example of unprofessional behaviour, both escort staff allocated to a detainee were asleep at the same time. The report found that almost no information was available to the men about what would happen in France, with some telling the inspectors they were anxious about their futures and others saying that they had no connections in France. Migrants returned to France under the deal have access to three days of emergency accommodation. After that, they could be referred to centres for asylum seekers or could be left destitute. open image in gallery There have been 305 people who arrived in the UK on small boats sent to France in the one in, one out scheme ( Getty ) Demonstrating how few material possessions the men have, the report documented that two detainees collected from Harmondsworth detention centre, in Middlesex, were removed wearing flip flops. Inspectors noted that staff did not offer alternative footwear. Inspectors noted that the detained men spoke a range of different languages and only one interpreter was present who spoke Arabic and French, languages that almost none of the men spoke. Force was also used on one man at Brook House immigration detention centre, near Gatwick, who said he would not comply with his removal. The inspectors said the force was only used as a last resort and, although a waist restraint belt was used, it was removed when it was safe to do so. Records show that force has been used against one in, one out migrants on eight occasions, five of them on one of the earliest flights under the scheme. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The head of Britains largest energy supplier has warned that the UK risks being "left behind" if it fails to collaborate with China on renewable technology, suggesting that importing Chinese wind farm innovations could create thousands of jobs. Greg Jackson, founder and chief executive of Octopus Energy, recently accompanied Sir Keir Starmer on a UK delegation to China. He emphasised China's significant advancements in technology and renewables, which he believes could provide Britain with crucial energy security. This push for closer ties follows Octopus Energy's recent joint venture with Chinese firm PCG Power, marking its first expansion into China. The agreement will enable Octopus to trade renewable energy within the worlds largest clean energy market. Furthermore, Octopus has previously indicated its desire to deploy wind turbines from leading Chinese manufacturers across its UK projects, utilising the country's renewable technology to enhance Britain's capabilities. However, these potential collaborations are set against a backdrop of ongoing national security concerns regarding China, following a period of strained relations between the two nations. open image in gallery Octopus Energy founder and chief executive Greg Jackson who was part of the UKs delegation to China accompanying Sir Keir Starmer on his recent visit to the country said China is leading advances in many areas of technology and renewables which could help Britain gain vital security over its energy supply ( PA Media ) Mr Jackson told the Press Association: However you feel about China, its the second-largest economy in the world. In many areas its setting the global pace because of its investment in research and development, and technology. There are many people concerned about Chinas motives or the way in which its run, but if you dont look at how to work with them, then youll get left behind. He added that working with China and gaining access to its technology was a golden opportunity that has the potential to bring down energy bills, create jobs and help boost the UK economy. He told PA: We need to be prepared to defend our own sovereignty and ensure our own security while working and trading with countries who can make people in Britain better off. Theres this obsession with whether or not were helping their economy, but the reality is we need to help our own economy. In September last year, Octopus struck a deal to co-operate on wind farm projects with Ming Yang Smart Energy Group in China, which could pave the way for UK firms to bring Chinese turbine machinery into Britain for the first time. open image in gallery Greg Jackson added that working with China and gaining access to its technology was a golden opportunity that has the potential to bring down energy bills, create jobs and help boost the UK economy ( PA Wire ) Mr Jackson said the firm is hoping to start bringing the turbine technology over in the next couple of years, which is said to be around 30 per cent cheaper than from Europe. We would hope to create thousands of jobs here to produce some of the wind turbines that the UK is planning on building, he said. He insisted security would be the firms number one priority in rolling out the technology, but that the UK needs to take action to reduce its reliance on imported gas and bring the cost of bills down. We should work intelligently and carefully with the appropriate security frameworks, he said. Theyre opening up to us in an appropriate way and we need to think about how well work with them here. Octopus, which has 7.6 million customers in the UK, overtook British Gas to become the UKs largest energy supplier earlier this year, with a market share of 24 per cent. It also has an AI-powered platform, called Kraken Technologies, which is used by other global energy retailers to improve customer service and billing and is valued at around 6.4 billion. The Government last month said it was investing 25 million into Kraken through the British Business Bank (BBB) ahead of the division being spun out in the next few months. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Prince and Princess of Wales have spoken out publicly for the first time regarding the ongoing revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein files involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. William and Kate say they are deeply concerned by the scandal, which has engulfed the monarchy and Westminster, and their thoughts are with the victims. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The ongoing Epstein scandal was reignited when a huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein was released by US authorities a week ago. The documents sparked allegations made against Williams uncle, Andrew, and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UKs trade envoy. open image in gallery William and Kate say they are deeply concerned by the latest revelations ( PA ) The former duke, who was stripped of his titles by the King last year, has always denied any wrongdoing. Buckingham Palace had said Andrew would leave Royal Lodge in early 2026, but the former prince is now living on King Charless privately owned Sandringham Estate. Andrew previously questioned the authenticity of a picture of him with his arm around Virginia Giuffre and said he had never met her. But she claimed she was made to have sex with him as a teenager. However, in an email apparently written by Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell in 2015, she said: In 2001, I was in London when [redacted] met a number of friends of mine, including Prince Andrew. A photograph was taken as I imagine she wanted to show it to friends and family." The Duke of Edinburgh was the first royal to publicly speak out since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to remember the victims when asked how he was coping since the US Department of Justices document dump. open image in gallery Andrew pictured in Windsor the day after the release of more Epstein files ( Reuters ) King Charles and Queen Camilla were heckled last week over his brothers association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during a royal walkabout through the Essex village of Dedham. The heckler, who was standing in the crowds behind the metal barriers, shouted: Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew? The statement from William and Kate comes as the Prince of Wales is travelling to Saudi Arabia for the start of a three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Sadiq Khan has stepped up his calls to reverse Brexit, describing it as his ultimate goal for the UK to join the European Union. In an interview with The Observer, the Labour Mayor said he wanted Sir Keir Starmer to show more ambition on rebuilding links with the EU, six years after the UK withdrew from the bloc. And he said his aim of rejoining the EU will be achieved in his lifetime. The comments come as Sir Keir attempts to ramp up his reset of EU relations, while insisting that the governments clear red lines in relation to the single market and the customs union remain in place. open image in gallery Sadiq Khan says the UK rejoining the EU is his ultimate goal ( Getty ) Last week, he said Labour was working to negotiate new arrangements with the EU, including on food and agriculture, and also indicated a desire for closer defence ties. Days later, the European Commissioner for finance, Valdis Dombrovskis, told the BBC that Brussels was ready to engage if Sir Keir wished to explore the possibility of working together on a customs union. In the interview published on Sunday, Sir Sadiq said: My ultimate goal is for us to rejoin [the EU] and I think it will happen in my lifetime. open image in gallery Keir Starmer said Labour was working to negotiate new arrangements with the EU, including on food and agriculture, and he also indicated a desire for closer defence ties ( Getty ) He added: I want us to be part of a customs union. Im an advocate for us being part of a single market. I think we can negotiate more now, because of how geopolitics has changed, than we could in 2016 or 2019. Europe needs us, and we need Europe. The former Tooting MP campaigned to remain in the EU during the 2016 referendum, and then called for a second referendum two years later on the basis of a bad deal being negotiated with the EU. Two years ago, he declared it was obvious that Brexit isnt working, while urgently calling for a closer relationship with the EU, after a Cambridge Econometrics study estimated Brexit had cost the UK 140bn. Supporters of a customs union between the UK and the EU have said it would slash bureaucracy and costs related to trade with the EU. However, critics have raised concerns that it would curtail the UKs ability to strike bespoke global trade deals. Labour's election manifesto ruled out signing up to the existing EU customs union. In December, cabinet minister Pat McFadden shut down deputy prime minister David Lammy after he suggested rejoining the customs union could increase growth and repeatedly refused to rule out reversing Brexit. Mr McFadden said Sir Keirhas been pretty clear that the UK wont be rejoining the customs union. However, the issue of Brexit is set to become a key one in the next general election. After Sir Keir outlined his plans to bring the UK into closer alignment with the EU, Labour believes it is the only political party with a position on Brexit that reflects the views of the general public. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice British Prime Minister Keir Starmers position hung by a thread on Monday as he tried to persuade his Labour Partys lawmakers not to kick him out of his job after just a year and a half in office. Starmer lost his chief of staff on Sunday and is rapidly shedding support from Labour legislators after revelations about the relationship between former British ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson and the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer is due to address Labour lawmakers behind closed doors later Monday in an attempt to rebuild some of his shattered authority. The political storm stems from Starmer's decision in 2024 to appoint Mandelson to Britains most important diplomatic post, despite knowing he had ties to Epstein. Starmer fired Mandelson in September after emails were published showing that he maintained a friendship with Epstein after the late financiers 2008 conviction for sex offenses involving a minor. Critics say Starmer should have known better than to appoint Mandelson, 72, a contentious figure whose career has been studded with scandals over money or ethics. A new trove of Epstein files released in the United States has brought more details about the relationship, and new pressure on Starmer. Starmer apologized last week for having believed Mandelsons lies. He promised to release documentation related to Mandelsons appointment, which the government says will show that Mandelson misled officials about his ties to Epstein. Police are investigating Mandelson for potential misconduct in public office over documents suggesting he passed sensitive government information to Epstein a decade and a half ago. The offense carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. Mandelson has not been arrested or charged, and does not face any allegations of sexual misconduct. Starmers chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, took the fall for the decision by quitting on Sunday, saying that I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. McSweeney has been Starmers most important aide since he became Labour leader in 2020, and is considered a key architect of Labours landslide July 2024 election victory. But some in the party blame him for a series of missteps since then. Some Labour officials hope that his departure will buy the prime minister time to rebuild trust with the party and the country. Senior lawmaker Emily Thornberry said McSweeney had become a divisive figure and his departure brought the opportunity for a reset. She said Starmer is a good leader in that he is strong and clear. I think that he needs to step up a bit more than he has. Others say McSweeney's departure leaves Starmer weak and isolated. Opposition Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said Starmer has made bad decision after bad decision and "his position now is untenable. Since winning office, Starmer has struggled to deliver promised economic growth, repair tattered public services and ease the cost of living. He pledged a return to honest government after 14 years of scandal-tarred Conservative rule, but has been beset by missteps and U-turns over welfare cuts and other unpopular policies. Labour consistently lags behind the hard-right Reform UK party in opinion polls, and its failure to improve had sparked talk of a leadership challenge, even before the Mandelson revelations. Under Britains parliamentary system, prime ministers can change without the need for a national election. If Starmer is challenged or resigns, it would trigger an election for the Labour leadership. The winner would become prime minister. The Conservatives went through three prime ministers between national elections in 2019 and 2024. One, Liz Truss, lasted just 49 days in office. Starmer was elected on a promise to end the political chaos that roiled the Conservatives final years in power. That proved easier said than done. Labour lawmaker Clive Efford said Starmers critics should be careful what you wish for. I dont think people took to the changes in prime minister when the Tories were in power," he told the BBC. It didn't do them any good. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer is clinging on to power with the support of key cabinet figures even after being rocked by the departure of a second key aide, and a public demand for his resignation from Labours own leader in Scotland. The prime minister was supported by colleagues, including his former deputy Angela Rayner, as the previously loyal Anas Sarwar urged him to step down over the Mandelson-Epstein scandal, saying he had made too many mistakes. On a day of drama, the PM was also hit by the resignation of Downing Street director of communications Tim Allan, less than 24 hours after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned. But Sir Keir insisted: I am going nowhere. open image in gallery Anas Sarwar appeared at a press conference in front of a backdrop that bore no mention of Labour ( PA ) Later, a determined Sir Keir told Labour MPs and peers he was not prepared to walk away or plunge the country into chaos as other prime ministers had done. But he was in effect put on notice when health secretary Wes Streeting, seen by many as angling for Sir Keirs job, published communications between himself and Mr Mandelson containing severe criticism of Sir Keirs economic and Middle East policies. The publication broke collective responsibility and would normally lead to a sacking, but Mr Streeting justified it by saying it was necessary to deal with with smears that had been made about his relationship with the disgraced former Labour peer. In front of a packed meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party, Sir Keir also vowed that as long as he had breath in my body he would fight against Nigel Farage on behalf of the country, adding that he had won every fight Ive ever been in. He said: After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, Im not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos as others have done. But he is understood to have faced a number of critical questions from MPs, including in relation to another former director of communications, Matthew Doyle, whom Sir Keir elevated to the House of Lords, and Mr Doyles links to a convicted sex offender. Leading pollsters suggested that Sir Keirs departure had now become inevitable. It all appeared to be unravelling after the controversial chief of staff, Mr McSweeney, stepped down on Sunday over his advice to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States despite Mr Mandelsons previous association with the convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Mr Sarwar, whose Scottish Labour Party is trailing both Reform and the SNP ahead of crucial Holyrood elections in May, held a press conference to say he believed that Sir Keir should now also step down. He said he was calling for his friend to resign but that he was doing so with a heavy heart. The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change, he told reporters. We cannot allow the failures at the heart of Downing Street to mean the failures continue here in Scotland, because the election in May is not without consequence for the lives of Scots. But almost as soon as he had spoken, Mr Streeting who was once accused by Downing Street officials of plotting against the PM said: Give Keir a chance. Chancellor Rachel Reeves posted: With Keir as our Prime Minister we are turning the country around. open image in gallery Tim Allan has quit as Downing Street director of communications ( BBC ) Deputy prime minister David Lammy added: Keir Starmer won a massive mandate 18 months ago, for five years to deliver on Labours manifesto that we all stood on. As ministers lined up to pledge loyalty, former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, touted by some as another possible candidate to replace Sir Keir, also appealed for calm. She said: I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team. The prime minister has my full support in leading us to that end. Labour grandee Alan Johnson warned that ditching the prime minister would turn Labour and the country into an international laughing stock. But amid the febrile atmosphere in Westminster, one Labour MP said: Its over. It is just a matter of when, not if. A number of MPs on the Labour left have already described Sir Keirs position as untenable, and there were plans to heckle the prime minister at the Parliamentary Labour Party event on Monday evening. Meanwhile, pollster Professor Sir John Curtice said: We are at the stage where unplanned events could result in Keir Starmer going. It could be MPs going to the chief whip or, like Boris Johnson at the end, one member of cabinet resigning, and that starts to precipitate. He suggested that one thing helping Sir Keir is that there is no clear successor. open image in gallery Starmer addressed the parliamentary Labour party on Monday night ( PA ) Prof Curtice noted that the ongoing HMRC investigation into Ms Rayners tax affairs would make it difficult for her to return immediately to government, while Mr Streeting has himself been damaged by the Mandelson scandal, and home secretary Shabana Mahmood probably cant even get the support of the 80 MPs to fight the contest. He speculated that Labour could appoint a former leader, energy secretary Ed Miliband, because of the lack of options. Meanwhile, another pollster, Conservative peer Robert Hayward, said: Im becoming ever more convinced that a change is inevitable, but the Labour Party has got to the we might as well try something else stage, as the Conservative Party did. A Downing Street spokesperson said: Keir Starmer is one of only four Labour leaders ever to have won a general election. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Almost half of local authorities responsible for delivering crucial social care services are bracing themselves to seek emergency financial assistance from the government within the next three years, a new survey reveals. This stark projection signals a deepening crisis for essential public services, threatening to undermine support for the most vulnerable. Despite recent increases in funding and the stability offered by three-year financial settlements, councils report that escalating demand and rising operational costs are expected to jeopardise frontline provisions. The Local Government Association (LGA) warns this will inevitably impact neighbourhood services, reduce investment in preventative measures, and intensify pressure on those who rely heavily on local support, leaving communities feeling neglected. The LGA's survey found that 34 per cent of all councils across the country have either already applied for, or are likely to seek, exceptional financial support (EFS) in at least one financial year up to 2028-29. This figure rises sharply to 47 per cent when focusing solely on upper-tier councils, which bear the primary responsibility for adult and childrens social care. open image in gallery An LGA survey found 34 per cent of all councils have already applied, or are likely to apply, for exceptional financial support (EFS) in at least one of the financial years up to 2028-29 ( Alamy/PA ) EFS mechanisms allow councils to cover day-to-day expenditures through borrowing or by utilising capital receipts, with some even granted permission to exceed the standard 4.99 per cent council tax increase limit. The government is due to publish its final settlement for councils for 2026-27 on Monday, but many local authorities fear their finances will be hit by proposed changes to funding allocation, following a review aimed at redirecting resources to poorer areas. The LGA insisted the EFS process is not a sustainable way of managing council finances and addressing gaps in funding. The survey also showed that 69 per cent of all councils said it will be difficult to set a balanced budget, as required by law, in 2026-27. When financial officers were asked how confident they are that their council will have sufficient funding to fulfil all statutory duties in each of the three financial years, 51 per cent said they were not confident, rising to 66 per cent of social care councils. Commenting on the findings, LGA chairwoman Louise Gittins said: This research underlines the reality facing councils. Councils are doing everything they can to protect the services people rely on but demand and costs continue to rise faster than funding, leaving many with no choice but to consider emergency financial support. Short-term fixes will not address these challenges. Councils need sustainable funding and reform so they can focus on prevention, growth and delivering the services communities expect. open image in gallery Many councils say increasing demand and costs are still expected to jeopardise frontline services such as social care The LGA has said that four in five upper-tier councils in England will be pushed into effective bankruptcy by increasing spending on special educational needs and disabilities (Send) without significant reforms to the system. There are calls for ministers to write off accumulated Send deficits which sit on councils books under current arrangements. The Government is expected to publish an education White Paper on an overhaul of the Send system in the coming weeks. The LGA said 95 per cent of upper-tier councils are carrying Send deficits, while four-fifths report they have to cut services to secure loans to pay the day-to-day costs of covering Send overspends. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said: We inherited an outdated and unfair funding system and were taking action to fix this, making almost 78 billion available for council finances next year. We are delivering fairer funding, targeting money where it is needed most through the first multi-year settlement in a decade, giving councils greater certainty to plan and invest for the long term. This will help councils deliver the high quality public services local people need. open image in gallery The LGA has said that four in five upper-tier councils in England will be pushed into effective bankruptcy by increasing spending on special educational needs and disabilities (Send) without significant reforms to the system ( PA Wire ) Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: This report must act as a wake up call to government. When councils go bust, it is workers and communities that pay the price. Time and again we have seen councils reach for the lever to cut jobs and services. This is austerity by any other name. We need real investment in our public services and this must be paid for through a wealth tax and local authority debt relief. Rachel Harrison, GMB national secretary, said: Fourteen years of Tory underfunding has had devastating impacts on local government services and workers. This years pay offer must be fully funded for all councils and schools to ensure no more services are cut and jobs lost to plug the funding gaps. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Morgan McSweeney has resigned as Keir Starmers chief of staff taking full responsibility for advising the prime minister to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. It comes as Sir Keir faces mounting pressure to resign amid controversy of Lord Mandelsons links to the disgraced financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. McSweeney, credited with masterminding Labours landslide election victory in 2024, was considered the driving force behind Lord Mandelsons appointment. His resignation has been interpreted by many as a damage limitation exercise in a bid to save Mr Starmers premiership. open image in gallery ( Getty ) McSweeney is alleged to have had knowledge about Mandelson's dealings with Epstein continuing after the financiers conviction for child sex offences. As the prime ministers right-hand man, Mr McSweeney was central to government strategy and decision-making. He was consequently seen by some as responsible for Downing Streets failed attempt to control the release of potentially explosive documents detailing the appointment decision. The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong, he wrote in a statement on Sunday announcing his resignation. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. In the letter McSweeney called for an overhaul of the vetting system, writing: While I did not oversee the due diligence and vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled. This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future. Who is Morgan McSweeney? Mr McSweeney was born in County Cork but left Ireland for London in 1994 aged 17, where he is said to have initially worked on building sites. He joined the Labour Party in 1997, reportedly motivated by the backing for the Good Friday Agreement which was key to the Northern Ireland peace process. open image in gallery The future of McSweeney (left), a key player in Sir Keirs rise to become Prime Minister, is now shrouded in uncertainty ( Picture Agency/Shutterstock ) In June 2001, he took a job as a Labour conference administrator, according to his Linkedin profile. Reports suggest he was later hired to work in Labours attack and rebuttal unit in the partys Millbank headquarters, where he is said to have been tasked with adding information to Peter Mandelsons excalibur database which informed campaign messaging. He is also said to have been sent to marginal seats to campaign during the 2005 general election, as his reputation as an effective organiser and operator began to grow. He was viewed as a key figure in a successful push, led by the current Communities Secretary Steve Reed, to oust the coalition of Liberal Democrats and Conservatives in the London borough of Lambeth. After failing in a bid to become a councillor in Sutton in 2006, he was appointed head of Mr Reeds leaders office in Southwark, a role he held until October 2007. After a stint as the director of communities at The Campaign Company consultancy, Mr McSweeney joined the Local Government Association as a political adviser and was later appointed head of the organisations Labour group office, a position he held until 2017. open image in gallery Mandelsons mentions in the Epstein files have led to a crisis for Starmers government ( US Department of Justice ) During that time, he ran Liz Kendalls leadership campaign in 2015 which resulted in the current Science Secretary finishing fourth. Mr McSweeney was appointed director of the Labour Together think tank in 2017, sharing a place on the board with Mr Reed and current Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy. At the time he is said to have declared his intention to move the party, then led by Jeremy Corbyn, from the hard left and build a sustainable winning electoral coalition. But later Mr McSweeney came under scrutiny over financial irregularities during his role at Labour Together. In 2021, the Electoral Commission fined the think tank 14,250 for failing to deliver donation reports within 30 days, inaccurately reporting donations and failing to appoint a responsible person within 30 days of accepting a donation. open image in gallery Morgan McSweeney has been criticised over his role in the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador ( PA ) The Conservatives called for the regulator to revisit the case in September last year after emails, seemingly sent by a Labour Together lawyer to Mr McSweeney, were leaked. Despite the Conservative Party chairman Kevin Holinrake suggesting the emails could serve as evidence that the Electoral Commission had been misled, the regulator said a review of the information had not provided evidence of any other potential offences. Mr McSweeney was appointed to run Sir Keirs successful 2020 leadership campaign and initially became his chief of staff. But following a poor Labour showing in the Chesham and Amersham by-election in 2021, he was moved to a strategic role in the leaders office but is said to have remained a key adviser. After being appointed as Labours director of campaigns in September 2021, Mr McSweeney is said to have been behind a push to impose a new centralised long-listing of parliamentary candidates, a process considered as an attempt to lock out those on the left of the party. Labours election victory in 2024 resulted in Mr McSweeney being appointed to the shared role of head of political strategy. Reports later suggested tension had developed between Mr McSweeney and then chief of staff Sue Gray but Labour sources provided contradictory opinions on the relationship at the time. Following Ms Grays resignation, Mr McSweeney was appointed Downing Street chief of staff in October 2024. Mr Starmer said of his resignation: Its been an honour working with Morgan McSweeney for many years. He turned our party around after one of its worst ever defeats and played a central role running our election campaign. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The name Morgan McSweeney may not have been on the lips of many people down the pub or at the school gate, but it has been one that those in the Westminster bubble are obsessed with. Now, though, he has become the biggest scalp yet in the rapidly escalating scandal over Peter Mandelson that threatens to also engulf the prime minister. The departure of the man who was responsible for Sir Keir being the leader of the Labour Party, the architect of the subsequent election victory and central figure in running the government leaves a weak prime minister very badly exposed. Labour MPs were always aware of the now former Downing Street chief of staffs power and importance, as something they considered to be either a toxic poison at the heart of government or a means to future preferment and promotion. open image in gallery Former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney is a powerful figure ( Getty ) Such were the concerns of the toxicity of the Downing Street operation under him that ambitious young Labour special advisers (spads) told The Independent that they would not go and work there, preferring outlying departments instead. Just last week, one spad told The Independent: You wouldnt catch me dead there. Cabinet ministers would complain about it in private, but everyone knew that with McSweeney, there was no Starmer and vice versa. One trusted senior minister said: Keir has to sort out the toxicity in Downing Street or else we will get nowhere. There had at times even been mutterings in Westminsters corridors that this was not Starmers government at all, but rather McSweeneys that the prime minister was, in many ways, the frontman for a project that is actually being directed by an unelected official in Downing Street. Tales from the last ministerial reshuffle last year emphasised his influence. The three people removed from the cabinet were all people McSweeney wanted out, according to sources. Angela Rayner may have been forced to resign over her tax affairs, but there had been a long, concerted campaign by the Blairite wing of the party, of which McSweeney remains a key member, to remove her. Who was it that authorised the revealing and damaging readout of Rayners comments on immigration in a cabinet meeting just before the summer? That could only have happened with McSweeneys blessing. Lucy Powell, now back after winning the election to be the partys deputy leader, was removed as Commons leader because she kept standing up to McSweeney and telling him he was wrong, according to an ally of hers. open image in gallery Keir Starmer is under siege after another terrible week ( PA ) Ian Murray was replaced by Douglas Alexander as Scottish secretary because of McSweeneys obsession with Blair-era figures. Alexander, a very capable individual, was a minister and campaign chief in Tony Blairs and Gordon Browns governments. McSweeney was desperate to get him in the cabinet, and Ian was expendable, a source told The Independent. More worryingly, Paul Ovenden, one of his key lieutenants, was sacked from Downing Street when emails with lurid remarks about veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott emerged. But now McSweeneys poor judgement of character has unravelled over his links with Mandelson. The 48-year-old not only pushed for Mandelsons appointment as ambassador to the US, but also tried to prevent his sacking, according to reports. But to understand the current project, you need to go back to the Jeremy Corbyn years, when McSweeney was at the forefront of trying to save the party from disappearing forever down a far-left black hole. open image in gallery The reshuffle came after Angela Rayner stepped down ( PA ) As director of Labour Together, he effectively organised the fightback and handpicked Starmer as the man to take over from Corbyn and turn the ship around. Labours success in the general election, which McSweeney ran, was the vindication of that project, but unfortunately, the party came into office without much of a policy plan. And it all started with McSweeney removing an obstacle to his authority Sue Gray, who had been brought in as the original chief of staff before he replaced her. As the welfare crisis mounted last year, with scores of Labour MPs threatening to vote the governments policy down, the calls to remove McSweeney grew very loud indeed. And they have not really quietened since. The Mandelson scandal, however, sent them stratospheric. But herein lies the problem. If this government were more a McSweeney government than a Starmer one, the prime minister would struggle to survive without his chief of staff. Without McSweeney, Starmer is hugely weakened, and the suggestions of a leadership coup within weeks become very realistic. Sir Keir plans to brazen it out appointing two insiders from the existing team - Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson - to replace McSweeney as joint chiefs of staff. He plans to continue the focus on the cost of living issues and put himself front and centre of the fightback. However, with the crucial by-election in Gorton and Denton coming up on 26 February and beyond that the local and devolved elections on 7 May, Labour MPs may decide they want a new resident in Downing Street long before the summer. Close Starmer hits out at Jim Ratcliffe over colonised by immigrants claim Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Angela Rayner has been backed by a union to take over from Sir Keir Starmer if Labour lose the by-election in Gorton and Denton. Maryam Eslamdoust, general secretary of the Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA), has publicly backed Angela Rayner to replace him, marking the first time a leader of one of Labours affiliated unions has openly supported an alternative to Sir Keir. But a spokesman for Ms Rayner said there was no contest and no vacancy. On Thursday, Ms Rayner and Andy Burnham joined forces to criticise Sir Keirs pub tax grab. It comes after controversies surrounding the appointments of Lord Peter Mandelson and Lord Matthew Doyle despite their association with sex offenders. Both suggested Sir Keir should cut VAT to ease pressure on struggling businesses, with Ms Rayner saying at a nighttime economy summit in Liverpool: I mean, I talked about the challenges on business rates, the challenges on VAT. The challenges, yes, the minimum wage going up and the living wage and the costs of energy. Mr Burnham, later on, said: I personally would support permanently a lower business rates regime for hospitality businesses for exactly the same reason, according to The Telegraph. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer is clinging on after surviving the toughest day of his premiership so far this week, when Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar became the most senior Labour figure to call for him to quit. The prime minister has been at the centre of a political storm since admitting he was aware of Peter Mandelsons relationship with Jeffrey Epstein even after his conviction for child sex offences when he appointed him as US ambassador. Figures across the political spectrum including MPs in his own party have been questioning the prime ministers judgement, with some declaring its over for him. Morgan McSweeneys departure the man who was responsible for Sir Keir becoming the leader of the Labour Party, the architect of the subsequent election victory and central figure in running the government on Sunday failed to quell growing questions over whether or not the prime minister can continue in his job. The PM was also hit by the resignation of Downing Street director of communications Tim Allan, further fuelling doubts over his future. But the heat intensified even further on Sir Keir on Monday when the previously loyal Mr Sarwar urged him to step down over the Mandelson-Epstein scandal, saying he had made too many mistakes. Sir Keir responded defiantly, insisting he was not going anywhere, before telling a meeting of Labour MPs: Ive won every fight Ive ever been in. The lack of a concerted effort by MPs to depose Sir Keir - and his Cabinet coming out to back him publicly on Monday afternoon - suggests the immediate danger may have passed. But it only takes one candidate to garner 20 per cent of the MPs to stand against him, and Sir Keir is in serious trouble. So who would that person be, and could they unite a warring party? open image in gallery The furore comes after months of speculation about Sir Keirs leadership of the Labour Party, with senior figures appearing to position themselves as his successor ( House of Commons ) Angela Rayner The former deputy prime minister is being openly discussed as a replacement for Sir Keir, despite her resignation less than six months ago over her personal tax payments. Angela Rayner raised eyebrows on Wednesday when she got to her feet in the Commons and made it clear she would vote against the governments attempt to restrict the release of full vetting documents relating to Lord Mandelsons appointment. Ms Rayner, the MP for Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, is viewed as a potential successor to Sir Keir or, if she did not run herself, as someone whose support could have a significant influence on the outcome of any contest. open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer has said he would like to see Angela Rayner return to government ( Lauren Hurley/Downing Street ) Many in the trade unions have been eager to see Ms Rayner get the top job and were already plotting her return days after she quit. She is believed to be preparing for a contest, having declared last month: Im not dead yet. Last week, the prime minister suggested Ms Rayner has a future role to play in government, and said he wanted to bring her back to the front line at the right point. Andy Burnham Andy Burnham has been the most talked about threat to Sir Keirs leadership in recent months, with speculation about a potential challenge having grown since mid-2025. Last year, Mr Burnham repeatedly failed to rule out a Labour leadership bid and has been regularly tipped as the leading candidate to take over should Sir Keirs position as prime minister become untenable. He was the focus of such rumours at the Labour Party conference in September, when he revealed that MPs were privately urging him to challenge Sir Keir. Earlier this month, tensions came to a head when a parliamentary seat in the north west came up for grabs after Gorton and Denton MP Andrew Gwynne stepped down. The Greater Manchester mayor applied to run under the Labour banner in the historically safe seat but was blocked by the partys National Executive Committee (NEC). Critics have accused Sir Keir and his allies of preventing Mr Burnhams candidacy for factional reasons, fearing a leadership challenge from the mayor as both Labours poll ratings and his personal approval ratings flounder. open image in gallery Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham ( PA ) Wes Streeting There is widespread speculation that supporters of health secretary Wes Streeting will launch a bid to replace Sir Keir following months of uncertainty and suffering in the polls. Just this week, as questions around Sir Keirs future reached fever pitch, the health secretary took the controversial decision to publish communications between himself and Lord Mandelson which contained severe criticism of the PMs economic and Middle East policies. The publication broke collective responsibility and would normally lead to a sacking, but Mr Streeting justified it by saying it was necessary to deal with with smears that had been made about his relationship with the disgraced former Labour peer. However, many have seen it as a clear attempt to distance himself from the PM and make it clear that he is ready to step in to his role when the time is right. It comes after a briefing war within Downing Street in recent months, targeting the health secretary over his perceived ambitions to succeed Sir Keir. It was also reported earlier this month that senior figures had been pushing for Mr Streetings removal from Cabinet for disloyalty, amid deepening splits in the prime ministers top team. open image in gallery Wes Streeting has denied trying to launch a coup ( Reuters ) Mr Streeting has previously voiced his concerns about the direction of the government, and hit out at a toxic culture in No 10 when briefings against him was made public in November. The 43-year-old health secretary is charismatic and the one cabinet minister who can connect with the public as long as they are not striking resident doctors. The former National Union of Students' presidents main weakness is that he is seen as too far to the right of the party, but he remains a more charismatic version of Sir Keir with less qualms about being compared to the Tories. Shabana Mahmood Another candidate who has been tipped for the top job is the home secretary, who was effectively endorsed by former prime minister Tony Blair last year. Amid previous speculation that Sir Keir could be forced to step down as prime minister, Shabana Mahmood has emerged among the front runners to succeed him. open image in gallery Another candidate who has been tipped for the top job is home secretary Shabana Mahmood ( PA ) Her biggest issues are similar to Mr Streeting. Like him, she is seen as being on the right of the party and it is unlikely both could run. Ed Miliband The left is looking for a candidate and there is a good chance they may turn to someone who had a go as leader before. The 56-year-old is a hate figure for the rightwing press because of his net zero policies but this only acts as a plus with members of the party. open image in gallery Ed Miliband has had a shot at the Labour leadership before ( Getty ) A bit like former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, Mr Miliband has found new life and purpose in life after leadership. He is now the evangelist for green energy and net zero when the world needs one. Gone is the cowed and shrunken man who led the party to defeat in 2015 he has been replaced by a man who is a serious contender to lead the party again with a new vigour. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Vatican has given the green light, again, to beatify Archbishop Fulton Sheen, the popular U.S. radio and TV preacher. His path to sainthood was derailed first by a lengthy court battle over his remains and then by concerns about how he handled clergy sexual misconduct cases. After a six-year delay to investigate the concerns, Sheen's beatification can now take place in Illinois as originally planned, the Peoria diocese said Monday. No new date for the ceremony was immediately announced. The Vatican's approval now sets the stage for the Illinois-born Sheen to be beatified during the pontificate of the Illinois-born Pope Leo XIV. The Holy See has informed me that the cause for the Venerable Servant of God Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen can proceed to beatification," Peoria Bishop Louis Tylka said in a written and video statement on the websites of the diocese and the Sheen foundation. open image in gallery Sheen was an enormously effective evangelizer in the 20th century U.S. church, who in some ways pioneered televangelism with his 1950s television series ( Getty Images ) We are working with the Dicastery of the Causes of Saints at the Vatican to determine the details for the upcoming beatification. Sheen was an enormously effective evangelizer in the 20th century U.S. church, who in some ways pioneered televangelism with his 1950s television series, Life is Worth Living. According to Catholic University of America, where he studied and taught before he was made a bishop, Sheen won an Emmy Award, was featured on the cover of Time Magazine "and became one of the most influential Catholics of the 20th century. Pope Francis had confirmed a miracle attributed to Sheens intercession on July 6, 2019 and had set his beatification for Dec. 21 that year in Peoria. But with less than three weeks notice, the Vatican postponed the ceremony indefinitely. It acted after the diocese of Rochester, N.Y., where Sheen served as bishop from 1966-1969, asked for further investigation into Sheens tenure and his role in priests assignments. The concerns focused on Sheens handling of two cases of priests accused of sexual misconduct. Sheen was never accused of abuse himself. A top canonical affairs official from Peoria, Monsignor James Kruse, said in 2019 that an investigation had cleared Sheen of any wrongdoing. Kruse later complained that the Rochester diocese was sabotaging the cause, writing a lengthy essay that had been posted on the official Sheen beatification site but later taken down. Peoria Bishop Tylka's statement made no reference to the concerns that prompted the delay in 2019. The 2019 investigation was the latest obstacle to bedevil Sheens cause, coming after an expensive, years-long legal battle between Sheens relatives in Peoria and the New York City archdiocese over his final resting place. Sheen, who died in 1979, was interred under the altar of St. Patricks Cathedral in New York. His remains were returned to Peoria in 2019 after a court ruled Sheens niece could bury him there. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A gray wolf has been spotted in Los Angeles County for the first time in over 100 years, according to a report. The three-year-old female wolf, known as BEY03F, was spotted in the mountains north of Santa Clarita around 6 a.m. Saturday, Axel Hunnicutt, the gray wolf coordinator for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, told the Los Angeles Times. Four hours earlier, the same wolf was spotted in the desert, south of Kern County, Hunnicutt said. Officials were able to track BEY03F using a GPS collar that she was fitted with last May. The wolf is seeking a partner, and the fact that she is still on the move is an indication that she has not found a mate and suitable habitat, Hunnicutt said. open image in gallery A gray wolf has been spotted in Los Angeles County for the first time in over 100 years, as she searches for a mate, according to a report ( U.S. Forest Service ) The wolf was born in 2023 in Plumas Countys Beyem Seyo Pack, and has since traveled over 370 miles south, officials said. John Marchwick, a writer for the nonprofit California Wolf Watch, told the Times the sighting was a historic moment in the return of wolves to California. Marchwick credited the return to the state Department of Fish and Wildlifes monitoring efforts and the animals protection under the state Endangered Species Act. Californias wolf population was wiped out by hunters and trappers about a century ago, but returned in 2011 when a wolf ventured over the border from Oregon, according to the report. Officials believe there are at least 60 wolves in California today. As of Sunday, BEYO3F was believed to be in the San Gabriel Mountains, where no established wolf packs are known to live, but she could meet one in the Tehachapi Mountains and form a pack. She could also continue moving north along the Sierra Nevada and potentially travel hundreds of miles longer before finding a mate. The one thing that we do know is the more that she moves, the more that she has to encounter human infrastructure, and particularly highways, Hunnicutt said. And we know that in California, the highest known cause of mortality for wolves is vehicle strikes. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Some disgruntled JPMorgan Chase workers are pushing back against CEO Jamie Dimons five-day return to office edict but others worry defying orders would be a career suicide, according to a report. Dimons return-to-office orders in early 2025 prompted a petition seeking to reverse the change. The petition has been signed by about 2,000 of the banks 300,000-plus global employees. But many employees are fearful of the consequences of speaking out. One anonymous JPMorgan employee told the Financial Times they believed adding their name to the petition would be career suicide. Workers at one of Americas biggest banks expressed their bewilderment at their boss's insistence on a full return to offices, even though many members of different teams are located all across the globe. My team is spread out through two continents and three time zones. JPMorgan is a global company why cant that include my home office? a staffer who signed the petition said. open image in gallery Some JPMorgan Chase employees are pushing back against CEO Jamie Dimons return to office policy, which was implemented last year, according to a report ( Getty Images ) Other employees noted the banks strict stance undercuts some professional gains made as a result of hybrid work. Hybrid is working and employees love the happy medium. Please dont force working women completely out of the workforce, one unhappy staffer said. Dimon announced the five-day return to office policy on January 10, 2025, ahead of a March 2025 start date. Soon after announcing the change, Dimon went viral for foul-mouthed remarks he made about the employee petition during a raucous town hall meeting. Dont waste time on it. I dont care how many people sign that ******* petition, he said at the time after being asked about the petition. Dimons expletive-filled rant may be fueling concerns amongst employees that signing on to the petition could harm their careers. A London-based banker told FT that the big investment bank bosses seemed to look down upon remote work more than bosses in other fields would. They want their pound of flesh, the banker said. Despite making record profits during Covid, when remote working was the norm, there is still the view that if youre working from home youre ultimately ineffective. Managers want to be able to see you. open image in gallery JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon announced the return to office plans last January ( AP ) The banker questioned whether older managers held the belief that remote work is inadequate because they feel resentful of younger employees being able to work flexibly when they themselves spent decades slumped over company desks. There may be some truth to that way of thinking. Tom Andrews, senior manager in financial services at Robert Walters, told FT that investment bankers have long-entrenched cultures of intense hours spent in the office, experienced first-hand by more senior leaders who expect the same commitment from junior staff. Another factor in pushing for the return to the office is the cost of office space. JPMorgan has spent billions, most recently dishing out $3 billion to build a new New York City headquarters, on its offices. The Independent has contacted JPMorgan for comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A years-long battle to protect a stretch of New Jersey beaches from erosion has gone back to the drawing board, after talks on a $54 million plan collapsed. The massive sand replenishment project would have seen sand moved around to bolster Five Mile Island beaches between the Hereford and Cape May inlets, encompassing North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and the Diamond Beach section of Lower Township. But talks stalled and the project was shelved, with funding moved elsewhere. The scrapped scheme will raise fresh fears over the future of tourism to the beaches, which are popular with visitors and play an important role in the local economy. North Wildwood in particular has lived in fear of being wiped out by the next big storm, and spent years embroiled in a legal dispute with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection over the condition of its beaches and protective sand dunes. open image in gallery North Wildwoods beach has long suffered from erosion, with big storms stripping away its sand dunes. ( Wayne Parry/AP ) Although it has been prone to severe erosion, North Wildwood has not yet gotten a full beach replenishment project from the state and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, due in part to funding delays and difficulty in obtaining easements from private property owners. In December 2024, the North Wildwood City Council voted to accept a settlement with the NJDEP in which both parties agreed to drop their respective legal action, and hopes were high that a full restoration project would begin in 2025. North Wildwood sits at the northern end of the barrier island. Due to the shape of the coastline and the movement of waves, sand moves southward along this stretch of the coast pushing sand from North Wildwood onto the beaches of its southern neighbors, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. It has long fought a losing battle against this erosion, trucking in sand to try and replace what is being lost. In 2022, for instance, it brought in a large quantity of sand ahead of Memorial Day, only for much of it to immediately wash away again in a storm. An initial recovery plan approved by Congress would have relied on moving sand between areas to balance out distribution so all towns had proper beaches. open image in gallery North Wildwoods beach is popular with Philadelphia-area tourists and plays an important role in the local economy ( Wayne Parry/AP ) But that plan has now stalled, with officials in both Wildwood and Wildwood Crest raising concerns about the impact of removing sand from their communities. Wildwood Crest Mayor Don Cabrera told NJ Advance Media he was also worried about maintaining access for first responders. We dont want our existing dunes, or any part of them, demolished for a higher dune, said Cabrera, and we dont want to close off Ill call them gaps because those are our emergency access points. Related concerns about beach length and dunes were shared by Wildwood, which often uses its beaches to host events with large crowds. North Wildwood Mayor Salvatore Zampirri told NJ Advance Media he doubted whether neighboring towns would ever support building a dune to protect his communitys beach, if they feared it would come at the expense of their own. open image in gallery Severe erosion has raised fears for the future of North Wildwood, especially as the climate crisis pushes sea levels higher ( Wayne Parry/AP ) He suggested that if necessary, North Wildwood would move ahead with a standalone restoration project provided state and federal officials were onboard. For now, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun another round of talks with the NJDEP to revive a joint effort. It involves investigating alternate borrow sources for sand, Army Corps spokesperson Stephen Rochette told NJ Advance Media. We are in the early stages of this study and have begun initial coordination with the municipalities. Coastal issues in New Jersey are expected to get worse in the coming decades as the climate crisis pushes sea levels higher. Many of these towns sit on flat barrier islands mere feet above sea level and as the oceans rise over the next century, these areas will face an increased threat from flooding and even potentially inundation. Multiple beach repair projects at the Jersey Shore were cancelled last year amid spending cuts by the Trump administration, and officials have pleaded for more federal help. New Jersey has increasingly stepped into the breach and spent its own money on beach replenishment, reaching $50 million annually with its Shore Protection Fund. Vessels conduct replenishment-at-sea training China Military Online) 14:12, February 09, 2026 Hospital ship Youai (Hull 861) attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command comes alongside the transport ship Nanyun 831 during a multi-subject training exercise in waters of the South China Sea. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Wu Huangqing) Hospital ship Youai (Hull 861) and transport ship Nanyun 831 attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command conduct alongside replenishment-at-sea operation during a multi-subject training exercise in waters of the South China Sea. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Wu Huangqing) Hospital ship Youai (Hull 861) and transport ship Nanyun 831 attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command conduct alongside replenishment-at-sea operation during a multi-subject training exercise in waters of the South China Sea. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Wu Huangqing) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, is not planning to visit the United States this year, a spokesperson for the Vatican told reporters. Speculation about Leo taking a trip back home has been circulating for weeks especially as the pontiff issues statements denouncing President Donald Trumps immigration agenda. Senior Vatican officials even reportedly considered having the pope visit the U.S. around the United Nations General Assembly in September. But ultimately, officials decided against it. No trip to the U.S. is expected in 2026, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said, according to the Washington Post. Its unclear what the reason behind the decision was, but the upcoming midterm elections could have influenced it. Typically, the pope does not visit a country during an election year to avoid the appearance of partisanship. Pope Leo, the first American pope, has no plans to visit the U.S. in an official capacity this year ( AFP/Getty ) Leo is also reportedly strategic about how the world views him as the first pope from the U.S. and wants to ensure he does not appear as though he prioritizes the states. He sees himself as someone who belongs to the world, Cardinal Blase Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, told the Washington Post. I doubted he would come in his first year. He wants to make sure people understand he serves the whole world. During his first public appearance, following the historic conclave last year, Leo spoke Spanish and Italian. His first visit outside of Vatican City was to Turkey and Lebanon in December. There will be papal travel to Angola and Equatorial Guinea in Africa, as well as to the Canary Islands in Spain and to Peru in South America, where Leo served as a bishop. The Independent has asked the Vatican for comment. While Leo has no intentions of visiting the U.S. this year, he will likely remain engaged with events happening across the country particularly those related to the Trump administrations immigration enforcement operations. This past year, Leo has issued statements condemning the governments treatment of immigrants, calling it extremely disrespectful and inhuman. Hes urged the administration to treat people with dignity and enact meaningful immigration reform rather than embark on a chaotic mass deportation operation. Leo has also encouraged the president to maintain U.S. allyship with Europe and discouraged the president from using force in Venezuela. While Leo is less vocal on immigration than his predecessor, Pope Francis, he made his opinions clear online before he was elected the current pope. Leo had reposted an opinion piece from the National Catholic Reporter, titled: JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesnt ask us to rank our love for others. Some MAGA allies criticized Leo for his social media presence at the time, especially given Vance converted to Catholicism in 2019. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thousands of public schoolteachers in San Francisco launched a strike on Monday, marking the citys first such industrial action in nearly 50 years. The walkout has led to the closure of all 120 schools within the San Francisco Unified School District, impacting approximately 50,000 students, with some offered independent study. The strike follows a breakdown in negotiations between teachers and the district over demands for higher wages, improved health benefits, and increased resources for students with special educational needs. Cassondra Curiel, president of the United Educators of San Francisco, issued a statement on Sunday night, highlighting the severe financial pressures faced by educators. "We are facing an affordability crisis," she said. "Family healthcare premiums of $1,500 per month are pushing excellent teachers and support staff out of our district. This week, we said enough is enough." Last-ditch talks over the weekend failed to secure a new contract, prompting union members to form picket lines. Mayor Daniel Lurie and Democratic US Representative Nancy Pelosi had both urged the parties to continue discussions to prevent school closures. Union leaders were scheduled to hold a news conference on Monday morning, with an afternoon rally planned at San Francisco City Hall. Negotiations were set to resume midday. For nearly a year, the union and district have been at loggerheads, with teachers pushing for fully funded family health care, salary increases, and the filling of vacant positions crucial for special education services. They also advocate for policies supporting homeless and immigrant students and their families. The unions proposal includes a 9% pay rise over two years, which would necessitate an additional $92 million annually for the district ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) The unions proposal includes a 9% pay rise over two years, which would necessitate an additional $92 million annually for the district. They suggest this could be drawn from reserve funds and redirected to classrooms. However, the SFUSD, which is grappling with a $100 million deficit and is under state oversight due to a long-standing financial crisis, rejected this idea. Officials countered with an offer of a 6 per cent wage increase spread over three years. San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Maria Su added on Friday that this offer also includes bonuses for all employees should a surplus materialise by the 2027-28 school year. A report from a neutral fact-finding panel, released last week, recommended a compromise of a 6 per cent increase over two years, largely acknowledging the districts arguments regarding its financial constraints. The union contends that San Francisco teachers receive some of the lowest contributions to their health care costs in the Bay Area, a factor driving many to leave. Su stated the district offered two options: 75 per cent family health coverage through Kaiser, or an annual allowance of $24,000 for teachers to select their own health care plan. Mayor Lurie, who previously helped broker an agreement that ended a hotel workers strike, confirmed that city agencies are coordinating with the district to provide support for children and their families. "I know everyone participating in these negotiations is committed to schools where students thrive and our educators feel truly supported, and I will continue working to ensure that," Lurie posted on social media on Sunday. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The U.S. military has boarded another sanctioned oil tanker, this time in the Indian Ocean after chasing the ship from the Caribbean Sea. When the @DeptofWar says quarantine, we mean it. Nothing will stop DoW from defending our Homeland even in oceans halfway around the world, the Pentagon wrote alongside video of U.S. forces boarding the ship. It ran, and we followed. The Department of War tracked and hunted this vessel from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. No other nation on planet Earth has the capability to enforce its will through any domain. By land, air, or sea, our Armed Forces will find you and deliver justice. You will run out of fuel long before you will outrun us. The Pentagon didnt say whether the ship was connected to Venezuela, which faces U.S. sanctions on its oil and relies on a shadow fleet of falsely flagged tankers to smuggle crude into global supply chains. The Aquila II was one of at least 16 tankers that departed the Venezuelan coast last month after U.S. forces captured President Nicolas Maduro, according to Samir Madani, co-founder of TankerTrackers.com. He said his organization used satellite imagery and surface-level photos to document the ship's movements. The Dept. of War issued a warning alongside the video, saying, You will run out of fuel long before you will outrun us ( Dept. of War ) According to data transmitted from the ship Monday, it is not currently laden with a cargo of crude oil. The Aquila II is a Panamanian-flagged tanker under U.S. sanctions related to the shipment of illicit Russian oil. Owned by a company with a listed address in Hong Kong, ship tracking data shows it has spent much of the last year with its radio transponder turned off, a practice known as running dark commonly employed by smugglers to hide their location. U.S. Southern Command, which oversees Latin America, said in an email that it had nothing to add to the Pentagon's post on X. The post said the military conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction on the ship. The U.S. did not say it had seized the ship, which the U.S. has done previously with at least seven other sanctioned oil tankers linked to Venezuela. A Navy official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations, confirmed the destroyers USS Pinckney and USS John Finn as well as the mobile base ship USS Miguel Keith were operating in the Indian Ocean. In videos the Pentagon posted to social media, uniformed forces can be seen boarding a Navy helicopter that takes off from a ship that matches the profile of the Miguel Keith. Video and photos of the tanker shot from inside a helicopter also show a Navy destroyer sailing alongside the ship. Since the U.S. ouster of Maduro in a surprise nighttime raid on Jan. 3, the Trump administration has set out to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuelas petroleum products. Officials in President Donald Trumps Republican administration have made it clear they see seizing the tankers as a way to generate cash as they seek to rebuild Venezuelas battered oil industry and restore its economy. Trump also has been trying to restrict the flow of oil to Cuba, which faces strict economic sanctions by the U.S. and relies heavily on oil shipments from allies like Mexico, Russia and Venezuela. Since the Venezuela operation, Trump has said no more Venezuelan oil will go to Cuba and that the Cuban government is ready to fall. Trump also recently signed an executive order that would impose a tariff on any goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba, primarily pressuring Mexico because it has acted as an oil lifeline for Cuba. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An 18-month-old girl who spent nearly two months in an immigration detention center in Texas became so gravely ill while inside that she was hospitalized for 10 days with life-threatening respiratory illnesses, according to a federal lawsuit. After the toddler was released from the hospital, she was forced to return to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody inside the sprawling detention center, where staff confiscated her prescribed medication, according to a lawsuit seen by The Independent. Amalia and her parents, Kheilin Valero Marcano and Stiven Arrieta Prieto, were released from ICE custody hours after a lawsuit seeking their release was filed last week, but her case has amplified concerns about conditions inside the Dilley Immigration Processing Center, a remote facility holding a growing number of immigrant families and the site of a recent measles outbreak. The Venezuelan family arrived in the United States with legal permission in 2024 after fleeing Nicolas Maduros regime. They were due to appear in immigration court in 2027 before they were abruptly arrested during a routine ICE check-in appointment December 11. Then Amalias health quickly deteriorated, according to the familys attorneys. open image in gallery 18-month-old Amalia experienced life-threatening respiratory illnesses while inside a sprawling family detention center in Texas that recently locked down due to a measles outbreak ( Columbia Law School ) She experienced persistent high fevers, vomiting, diarrhea and infections while her parents begged detention center staff for help, according to the lawsuit. On January 1, she developed a fever that spiked as high as 104 degrees. In the days that followed, she struggled to breathe. She lost 10 percent of her body weight. She was only hospitalized after her parents repeatedly requested urgent medical care while their childs blood oxygen saturation plummeted to dangerously low levels, attorneys wrote. Amalia was transferred to two hospitals in Texas, where doctors diagnosed her with pneumonia, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and viral bronchitis. She was hooked up to a machine to receive supplemental oxygen. She was hospitalized from January 18 to 28, after which doctors provided her parents with medication and Pediasure to support her recovery, along with detailed instructions for her care, according to medical records cited in the complaint. But ICE denied the family access to her prescriptions, including Albuterol and a nebulizer, and confiscated her Pediasure, according to the lawsuit. Her parents were forced to wait in long lines for hours in an outdoor queue each day to request their daughters medicine only to be turned away, lawyers wrote. open image in gallery Amalia was hospitalized for 10 days while the toddler and her parents were detained inside the Dilley Immigration Processing Center for roughly two months ( Columbia Law School ) Amalia had trouble sleeping inside the facility, where lights are on 24 hours a day, in a room she and her mother shared with four other mothers and their children, according to the lawsuit. The family struggled to eat inside; they reported bugs in the food and lack of access to clean, drinkable water. Even after the family was granted release to leave ICE custody, officials did not return her nebulizer, medication, birth certificate or vaccination card, lawyers told The Independent. Attorneys are still fighting to get them back. This is outrageous, said Elora Mukherjee, director of Columbia Law Schools Immigrants Rights Clinic, which filed the petition seeking the familys release. ICE continued to detain Baby Amalia during a measles outbreak and in a setting where she was exposed to other infectious viruses, she told The Independent. Hundreds of children and families remain detained and at risk at Dilley. This is unconscionable. A spokesperson for Homeland Security said any claims that the toddler did not receive her medication or proper medical treatment are FALSE. After she became ill with a respiratory illness, Amalia immediately received proper medical care and was hospitalized, according to Homeland Security deputy secretary Tricia McLaughlin. When back at the facility, she was in the medical unit and received proper treatment and prescribed medicines, she said in a statement to The Independent. open image in gallery ICE has allegedly not returned Amalias medication, birth certificate and other records despite the familys release from custody ( Columbia Law School ) ICE detentions have exploded since Donald Trump returned to the White House, with more than 70,000 people being held at any given point inside detention centers across the country, the most in modern American history. While the federal government does not publicly disclose information about children in immigration custody, data from advocacy groups, attorneys and investigative news organizations suggest that a growing number of those detainees are children. At least 3,800 people under 18 years old, including 20 infants, were in immigration enforcement custody last year, according to The Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization focused on criminal justice. open image in gallery The detention center in rural Texas holds a growing number of immigrant families as Trump expands his mass deportation efforts in the countrys interior ( AP ) open image in gallery At least two measles cases were confirmed at the detention center amid heightened scrutiny from legal advocacy groups and lawmakers into the conditions inside ( AFP via Getty Images ) The latest lawsuit comes amid heightened scrutiny at Dilley, a sprawling, fenced-in facility run by private prison firm CoreCivic roughly 70 miles south of San Antonio. The compound first opened during Barack Obamas administration to support the wave of families crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, though Joe Bidens administration stopped holding families at the facility in 2021. Trump re-opened the facility after taking office as his administration began pursuing immigrants with families who have spent years living in the countrys interior. Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father were released from Dilley February 1 after a judges searing order against the familys detention, which drew renewed outrage against the Trump administrations mass deportation efforts. A photograph of Liam in the cold wearing a blue hat and Spider-Man backpack has become emblematic of sweeping arrests in Minnesota after federal officers surged into the state last month, sparking several lawsuits and demonstrations across the country. open image in gallery A photograph of Liam Conejo Ramos in the cold wearing a blue hat and Spider-Man backpack has become emblematic of sweeping arrests in Minnesota ( Columbia Heights Public Schools ) The administration is also stripping legal protections for millions of immigrants who were previously living and working with legal permissions in the United States, like Amalias parents, making them immediately vulnerable for arrest and removal. After reaching Mexico from Venezuela in 2024, her parents made an appointment with the CBP One app and presented at the U.S.-Mexico border, where they were processed into the country under humanitarian parole and given a date to appear in immigration court December 21, 2027. They assimilated into El Paso, Texas, with their newborn, and attended regular court-mandated ICE check-in appointments. The Trump administration terminated temporary legal statuses for immigrants who entered the country with the app, which was used by roughly 985,000 people seeking legal entry into the country before the president abruptly ended the program. She and her parents did everything right they entered the United States lawfully, they complied with all their immigration check-ins, they went to church every week and contributed to their community, according to Mukherjee. After terminating CBP One, Homeland Security re-tooled the app as CBP Home and encourage people to use it to self-deport. Being in detention is a choice, McLaughlin said. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return. Detaining immigrant children in inhumane and degrading conditions is illegal, unconstitutional, and un-American, she said. Children and families at Dilley must be released. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sen. John Fetterman warned on Sunday that the two parties in Washington were little closer to averting a partial government shutdown looming at the end of the week as negotiations on funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continue. The senator spoke on Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News, where host Maria Bartiromo asked him if he would support a funding package for DHS at the end of the week. Fetterman was noncommittal, but pointed to a series of reforms to DHS and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that Democrats want to see enacted in exchange for their votes. He added that a partial shutdown was likely, as he didnt see the chamber making much progress towards reaching an agreement on funding for DHS. If I had to say now, they probably expect that there will be a shutdown because things are [...] committed to do that, Fetterman told Fox News on Sunday. After Congress passed a two-week continuing resolution at the beginning of last week, the Senate began a countdown clock to address those disagreements in legislation. Republicans have rejected some out of hand, including requiring ICE officers to remove their masks, but have signaled an openness to considering others. Only DHS and its related agencies would be affected if Congress misses the funding deadline on Feb. 13, as the funding bill for DHS was unhitched from a larger long-term spending package. open image in gallery Sen. John Fetterman said that he expected a partial shutdown to occur at the end of the week due to disagreements over DHS funding in the Senate ( Fox News - Sunday Morning Futures ) Democrats in the House and Senate have released a list of 10 demands they want to see codified in legislation in exchange for their votes on DHS funding legislation this week. Reports on Sunday indicated that Senate Democrats had finished writing bill text for their partys desired reforms. On the list of proposed ICE reforms: Restrictions on the scope of ICE raids, an end to enforcement near schools and other sensitive locations, and official standards against racial profiling. Some Republicans, as Fetterman noted, have called those demands a wish list and dismissed them out of hand. But even the Trump administration and the president himself have admitted that a tactical shift is necessary amid a massive public outcry over the deaths of two Americans shot and killed by ICE and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis, where a massive immigration enforcement surge has been going on for months. In recent days, the White House has shifted out the top ICE commander in the region, installed a new one, and stated that hundreds of ICE agents will be pulled out of the city. Democrats are certainly not going to get all 10 items on their agenda for DHS reform, Fetterman told Bartiromo. But he also added that he personally had no idea what his own partys red lines for DHS funding would be. open image in gallery The surge of ICE and DHS forces to Minneapolis has led many Democrats to demand reforms to the agencies in exchange for votes on legislation to keep them funded ( AFP via Getty Images ) Fetterman, in the past, has been among the least willing in his party to withhold his vote for government funding measures and is also a supporter of tougher immigration enforcement. He supported the Laken Riley Act in early 2025 and on Sunday reiterated that he supports deporting immigrants with criminal backgrounds. He also opposed his partys efforts to force Republicans to the table last year by withholding their votes for government funding legislation until a deal was struck to extend federal health care subsidies; those efforts failed. His colleagues in the chamber are much more critical of ICEs operations and have called for Kristi Noem, the secretary of DHS, to resign. The agency is being run by people who have no idea what they're doing and don't seem to give a s**t about the constitutional rights of the American people, Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., told The Independent in late January. To pass a funding package to keep DHS running beyond Feb. 13, Senate Republicans will need votes from at least four Democrats in the chamber to avert a filibuster, with Fettermans vote likely to be one. Senate Republican leader John Thune has raised the possibility that DHS will need to be funded via repeat continuing resolutions for the time being as the chamber works out disagreements over ICE reforms. A two-week CR probably means theres going to be another two-week CR and then maybe another two-week CR after that, Thune told reporters in late January, according to The Hill, adding: I just think its going to be really, really hard to get anything done. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The group organizing the celebration of Americas 250th anniversary is offering access to President Donald Trump to donors who give $1m or more. Freedom 250, a public-private partnership that launched last year and will help execute the celebrations, is soliciting donations and offering bespoke packages to donors, The New York Times reports. The newspaper obtained a breakdown of the packages being circulated by fundraisers, which consist of five tiers. Donors who give $1m or more the Patriot Sponsor tier will receive an invitation to a private Freedom 250 thank you reception hosted by President Donald J. Trump, with a historic photo opportunity. The lowest sponsorship package begins at $500,000 to $999,999, which does not include access to Trump, but offers VIP access, invitations and preferred seating at all Freedom 250 events. open image in gallery The group organizing the celebration of Americas 250th anniversary is offering access to President Donald Trump to donors who give $1,000,000 or more ( The White House ) In addition to access to Trump, donors who give $2,500,000 or more will be offered a VIP speaking role at the 4th of July celebration. The most expensive sponsorship package is priced at $10,000,000 or more. By becoming a sponsor, your organization will play a vital role in a nationwide commemoration - one that honors our nation's history, recognizes the contributions of Americans from all walks of life, and looks ahead to the future we're building for the next generation and beyond, the sponsorship introduction reads. The events being planned by Freedom 250 are tailored to the presidents political agenda and his penchant for spectacle, personal branding and legacy, the Times noted. Planned events include a UFC match on the White House lawn and an IndyCar race through Washington, D.C. Trump has also unveiled plans for an Independence Arch to soar 250 feet tall, more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial and towering over the White House. White House spokesman Davis Ingle told the Times that the president was ensuring that America gets the spectacular birthday it deserves, while a spokesperson for Freedom 250 told the newspaper that the president cant be bought by anyone. open image in gallery Trump has also unveiled plans for an Independence Arch to soar 250 feet tall, more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial and towering over the White House ( AFP via Getty Images ) The Independent has contacted the White House for further comment. The way in which Trump and his allies have gone about fundraising for the 250th celebrations is reminiscent of how the president attracted donors for his $400 million White House ballroom. Large corporations with government contracts or business concerns before the federal government are among the ballrooms major donors, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft. Democratic Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey, who sits on the bipartisan America250 commission, told the Times that she was concerned that taxpayer money allotted by Congress for the celebration would be steered by the Trump administration to Freedom 250. Watson Coleman also expressed unease that some of the events being planned by Freedom 250 would overshadow the efforts of America250 and be more about glorifying the president than marking the anniversary itself, according to the Times. People need to understand that theres a dual track going on here, Watson Coleman told the newspaper. And one of the lanes of that endeavor is to get everybodys story out, and the other is trying to showcase the president and have his ego stroked. Rosie Rios, chairwoman of America250, said the group welcomed that Freedom 250 was providing a clear funding mechanism and it would give the American people more ways they can celebrate Americas 250th birthday. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ghislaine Maxwell, the former girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein, who is serving a 20-year sentence for child sex trafficking, invoked her Fifth Amendment right to remain silent during a House Oversight Committee deposition Monday morning. David Oscar Markus, a lawyer for Maxwell, said he advised his client to remain silent given her ongoing appeal to her 2021 conviction but said is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump. Maxwell remained silent when faced with questions about her knowledge of Epsteins criminal activities but told lawmakers that both President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton were innocent of wrongdoing. House Oversight Chairman James Comer, who subpoenaed Maxwell, said he was disappointed in her deposition. Comer told The Independent the committee considered giving her immunity but ultimately decided against it after speaking with survivors. This was something new today, obviously that's not for me to decide, that's for the president to decide, Comer said. open image in gallery Maxwells lawyer said she would not answer questions from the House Oversight Committee unless she was granted clemency ( AP ) While the president has acknowledged his ability to pardon Maxwell, he has not expressed an interest in doing so. Speaker Mike Johnson pushed back on Maxwell saying that she would testify if President Trump granted her clemency. Look, I think she has an obligation to tell the truth, he told The Independent Monday evening. I just think it's unconscionable that she's she's pleading the Fifth or trying to make deals. She needs to tell the truth. It's long overdue, and I think it would be good for her to do that. She's already sentenced to prison. Markus had previously told Comer that his client would invoke her Fifth Amendment if she were subpoenaed, citing concerns that her testimony could impact her current habeas corpus bid. If this Committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path. Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump, Markus said in a statement Monday. Only she can provide the complete account. Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example, both President Trump and President Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms. Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation. Already, Justice Department officials have interviewed Maxwell about other individuals who may have committed crimes against victims of Epstein. After sitting for an interview that stretched across two days, Maxwell was suddenly moved from a high-security prison in Florida to a minimum-security prison in Texas. At the time, Markus said Maxwell answered every single question honestly, truthfully, to the best of her ability. However, when it came to her House deposition, Maxwell was far less compliant. open image in gallery Maxwell was a close confidant of Epsteins and acted as his manager in email exchanges ( US Department of Justice ) The Independent has asked David Markuss office for comment. Ahead of Mondays deposition, Rep. Ro Khanna, a member of the House Oversight Committee, asked Comer to clarify which questions Maxwell plans to invoke her Fifth Amendment right to. Khanna asked if Maxwell would answer questions about her four named co-conspirators and 25 men who entered into secret settlements; whether Epstein provided President Donald Trump access to underage girls when they were friends; or foreign governments with which Epstein had relationships. Trump has not been charged with any offenses in connection with Epstein and has denied any wrongdoing. But Rep. James Walkinshaw, a Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, said they received no substantive answers to questions that were asked that would advance the committees investigation. "She, through her lawyer, explicitly stated that she wants to be out of prison through a clemency that this president would grant," Rep. Suhas Subramanyam said. Maxwells deposition arrives just after the Justice Department released three million pages of documents in the governments Epstein file. Many of the documents are emails between Epstein, Maxwell and third parties. Last year, Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act to increase public transparency on the Epstein files. The legislation required the Justice Department to release redacted versions of all documents related to the Epstein investigation, after months of delays. The Independents Eric Garcia contributed to this report. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trumps border czar Tom Homan warned last summer that an aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration risked alienating the American public, according to a report. Homan was brought in last month to assume control of Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis after two U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti were shot dead by federal agents, provoking a national outcry. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, the president held crisis talks with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and had CBP Commander-at-Large Greg Bovino, who had led the operation, sent back to California to avoid further inflaming tensions on the ground. But, according to NBC News, Homan had argued as long ago as last June that a more targeted approach to immigration enforcement focused on criminals was necessary to keep the faith of the American people, rather than the broader roundup tactics favored by Bovino to meet targets. open image in gallery Border czar Tom Homan has long advocated for a more targeted approach to the arrest of illegal immigrants as the key to keeping the public on side ( AFP/Getty ) I think the vast majority of the American people think criminal illegal aliens need to leave, Homan told journalist Julia Ainsley in an interview conducted for her forthcoming book Undue Process: The Inside Story of Trumps Mass Deportation Program. And if we stick to that prioritization, I think we keep the faith of the American people And I think the more we do that, the more the American people will support what President Trumps doing. We got to do it and weve got to do it in a humane manner. When I say prioritize public safety threats, theyre just a priority. Ive said it many times: If youre in the country illegally, youre not off the table. If we find you while were out there looking, youre going to be arrested. If we send a message to the world that, Well if you enter the country illegally, thats a crime but dont worry about it just dont commit another crime and were not looking for you. We cant send that message. At the time the border czar was speaking, ICE was engaged in enforcement operations in downtown Los Angeles, which led to widespread protests and ultimately caused Trump to send in the National Guard and Marines to help keep the peace, against the wishes of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass. open image in gallery CBP Commander-at-Large Greg Bovino, who was stood down from Minneapolis last month, favored a much broader approach to making arrests ( Getty ) Further operations, equally controversial, followed in Chicago, Charlotte, New Orleans and Portland, with the tensions finally erupting in Minnesota in January following the killings of Good and Pretti, both 37-year-old activists fatally shot in street confrontations with agents. Approximately one-third of the arrests made by ICE in the first nine months of 2025 were of immigrants with no other criminal convictions, according to publicly available data, suggesting Homans advice was not then being heeded. It emerged last week that Bovino had actively declined the administrations guidance that he should prioritize targeted arrests during Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago. A DHS spokesperson told NBC there is no difference in outlook between Homan and Noem on how to conduct the crackdown looking forward. As Border Czar Homan and Secretary Noem have both said numerous times, ICE conducts targeted operations to remove public safety threats from this country any individual illegally in that country is on the table, they said. There is only one page: the presidents page. Everyones on the same page. Since taking over responsibility for Minneapolis from Bovino two weeks ago, Homan has attempted to strike a calmer tone and last week reduced the number of federal agents in the city by 700. Trump too has since publicly acknowledged the need for a a little bit of a softer touch in carrying out immigration enforcement, saying as much as an interview with NBC that aired during Sundays Super Bowl. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Minnesota woman has alleged she lost her membership to the TSAs PreCheck and Global Entry trusted traveler programs three days after being challenged by an immigration agent. Nicole Cleland, who volunteers with a community group that monitors ICE and Border Patrol officials in their neighborhood, made the claim in a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. Cleland says on the morning of January 10 just three days after the fatal shooting of activist Renee Good in Minneapolis she was in her car when she observed a white Dodge Ram being driven by federal officials. The 56-year-old Target director says she and a fellow observer followed the Dodge in their own vehicle because they were concerned about a local apartment building being raided. open image in gallery A Border Patrol agent questions a driver in Minneapolis as part of Operation Metro Surge (file photo) ( Getty ) An agent exited the vehicle and approached my vehicle, Cleland wrote. I remained in my vehicle. The agent addressed me by my name and informed me that they had facial recognition and that his body cam was recording. The agent stated that he worked for Border Patrol. He wore full camouflage fatigues. The agent stated that I was impeding their work. He indicated he was giving me a verbal warning and if I was found to be impeding again, I would be arrested. Cleland, of Richfield, says she accepted the warning and drove away, only to then receive the email regarding her travel privileges later that week. The notification did provide some reasons that my status may have changed and the only one that makes sense was: The applicant has been found in violation of any customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations, procedures, or laws in any country, she said in the declaration. I was not detained, I was not arrested, so difficult to understand how I was found in violation. open image in gallery Federal agents on the streets of Minnesota as part of the Trump administrations crackdown on illegal immigration (file photo) ( AP ) Given that the notification came so soon after her encounter with the Border Patrol official, Cleland said she assumed it was the result of me following and observing the agents and was therefore intended as an act of intimidation and retaliation. She concluded by expressing fears that she may be detained or arrested again in the future and that further actions that could be taken against me or my family. The interaction with the agents on January 10 made me feel angry and intimidated, Cleland wrote. I have been through Legal Observer Training and know my rights. I believe that I did not do anything that warranted being stopped in the way that I was. Asked whether Cleland had lost her travel privileges as a direct consequence of the incident, a DHS spokesperson told The Independent: There has been no new directive from Customs and Border Protection on Global Entry revocations. Body worn cameras are utilized to document encounters and are not equipped with CBPs facial comparison technology. According to The New York Times, federal agents have been regularly spotted using an app on their cellphones known as Mobile Fortify during operations carried out as part of President Trumps immigration crackdown. The app can scan faces and capture contactless fingerprints to quickly identify individuals. Ms Cleland was one of at least seven American citizens told by ICE agents this month that they were being recorded with facial recognition technology in and around Minneapolis, the Times wrote in its own account of her experience, citing verified social media videos. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Rep. Thomas Massie has called for the resignation of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick following his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as revealed in the latest batch of documents released by the Department of Justice. The Republican representative of Kentucky, who has led the charge in securing the release of the Epstein files, appeared on CNNs Inside Politics Sunday and was asked whether Lutnick should testify before Congress. It emerged last week that Lutnick visited Epsteins private Caribbean island with his family on at least one occasion and accepted an invitation in 2012. He should just resign! Massie told CNNs Manu Raju. There are three people in Great Britain that have resigned in politics the ambassador from Great Britain to the United States, the Prince lost his title for less than what weve seen Howard Lutnick lie about. If this were Great Britain, hed already be gone. Massie was referring to former U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, Peter Mandelson, who is in the middle of a firestorm over his links to Epstein, and Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, who was stripped of his title by his brother, King Charles III. open image in gallery Rep. Thomas Massie has called for the resignation of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick following his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as revealed in the latest batch of documents released by the Department of Justice ( Getty Images ) Look, Howard Lutnick clearly went to the island, if we believe whats in these files. He was in business with Jeffrey Epstein. And this was many years after Jeffrey Epstein was convicted you know, lightly sentenced, but was convicted for sexual crimes, Massie continued. So hes got a lot to answer for. But really he should make life easier on the president, frankly, and just resign. The Independent has contacted the Commerce Department for comment. The alleged revelations about Lutnick in the Epstein files contradict earlier claims that he cut ties with the disgraced financier long ago. Emails show Lutnick and his wife accepted an invitation to Epsteins island, Little St. James, in the U.S. Virgin Islands in December 2012 and planned to arrive by yacht with their children. open image in gallery He should just resign! Massie told CNNs Manu Raju, after it emerged that Lutnick visited Epsteins private Caribbean island with his family on at least one occasion and accepted an invitation in 2012 ( CNN ) Lutnick, a former chairman of Newmark, a major commercial real estate firm, also had drinks with Epstein in 2011 and corresponded with him about the construction of a building across the street from both their homes. In a statement, the Commerce Department said Lutnick had limited interactions with Mr. Epstein in the presence of his wife and has never been accused of wrongdoing. According to The New York Times, Lutnicks name appeared in more than 250 documents in the Epstein files. A representative of the Commerce Department told the outlet that Lutnick and his wife met Epstein in 2005 and had very limited interactions with him in the years that followed. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado claims that a close ally has been kidnapped, just hours after he was released from prison. The government released several prominent opposition members on Sunday. Machado said on social media that Juan Pablo Guanipa was abducted around midnight in a residential neighborhood of the capital, Caracas. Heavily armed men, dressed in civilian clothes, arrived in four vehicles and violently took him away, she posted on X. We demand his immediate release. Guanipa and others were released following growing pressure on acting President Delcy Rodriguez to free those whose detention is linked to their political activities. open image in gallery Opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa rides on the back of a motorcycle after his release from prison in Caracas, Venezuela ( AP ) It also comes after representatives of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights visited Venezuela. The governments press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment early Monday. Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuelas acting president after the January 3 capture of then-President Nicolas Maduro by the U.S. military. Her government began releasing prisoners days later. Some of those freed Sunday joined families waiting outside prisons for their loved ones to be released. They chanted We are not afraid! We are not afraid! and marched a short distance. I am convinced that our country has completely changed, Guanipa, a former governor, had told reporters hours after his release. I am convinced that it is now up to all of us to focus on building a free and democratic country. open image in gallery Guanipa records a video message to supporters after his release ( AP ) Guanipa had spent more than eight months in custody. Venezuelan-based prisoners rights group Foro Penal confirmed the release of at least 30 people Sunday. In addition to Guanipa, Machados political organization said several of its members were among the released, including Maria Oropeza, who livestreamed her arrest by military intelligence officers as they broke into her home with a crowbar. Machados attorney, Perkins Rocha, was also freed. Alfredo Romero, president of Foro Penal, expressed serious concern over Guanipa's disappearance. So far, we have no clear information about who took him, he said on X. We hope he will be released immediately. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Dalai Lama has denied ever meeting paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein after he was named dozens of times in the latest release of the Epstein files. The office for the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism released a statement on Sunday in response to social media posts... attempting to link His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Jeffrey Epstein. There are more than 150 references to the Dalai Lama in the full Epstein library, which includes more than 3 million new pages added by the US Justice Department at the end of January. In correspondence from 2015, Epstein told associates of his plans to meet with Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. One email to Epstein asked if a dinner with the Buddhist leader was fixed, to which Epstein only replied: Talk Tomorw [sic]. open image in gallery The Dalai Lama issued the statement after the latest Epstein files revealed emails from the paedophile that included the spiritual leaders name ( AP ) The Dalai Lama, now 90, is not accused of any wrongdoing. In a new statement, his office denied that he had ever met Epstein. Some recent media reports and social media posts concerning the Epstein files are attempting to link His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Jeffrey Epstein, it read. We can unequivocally confirm that His Holiness has never met Jeffrey Epstein or authorised any meeting or interaction with him by anyone on His Holinesss behalf. The latest tranche of emails suggests that Epstein was trying to arrange a dinner with the Dalai Lama, famous linguist Noam Chomsky and Woody Allen in May 2015. Epstein wrote on 10 May 2015 that a fun dinner would be dali lama [sic]. woody allen chomsky?, adding: lets do it. open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in his prison cell in 2019. The US government faces pressure to release the documents they have about his case ( US Department of Justice ) Joi Ito, responding, implied Epstein had not yet met the exiled leader, writing, Yes. First step would be to meet Tenzin and suggesting an unnamed student could get us the Dalai Lama. The next day, Epstein emailed a contact saved as Soon Yi Previn, Allens wife, writing: im working on the dalai lama for dinner. Four days later, he received an email from scientist Lawrence Krauss, asking: is dinner with woody and dali lama [sic] on may 19th fixed? The Dalai Lama is the head of Tibetan Buddhism and has lived in exile since 1959, when he fled to northern India following unrest over the Chinese occupation of Tibet. open image in gallery Epstein appeared to have suggested a date to get dinner with the Dalai Lama in May 2015 ( Department of Justice ) He officially gave up political duties in 2011 to the Tibetan government in exile, but remains the foremost religious leader of the Tibetan community and diaspora. The 14th Dalai Lama was also caught in controversy in 2023 after asking a child to suck his tongue at his temple in Dharamashala. In widely shared footage, the Dalai Lama was heard asking a young boy to kiss him on his cheek and then his lips after the boy asked if he could give him a hug. The Dalai Lama pressed his forehead to the childs before sticking out his tongue and saying and suck my tongue. The video attracted criticism from rights activists. Penpa Tsering, the head of Tibets government in exile, defended the Dalai Lama at the time, saying his actions were innocent and only demonstrated his affectionate behaviour. The office of the Dalai Lama apologised for the hurt his words may have caused, explaining that his Holiness often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way, even in public and before cameras, but adding: he regrets the incident. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Norwegian ambassador has resigned following reports that Jeffrey Epstein left her children $10 million in his will. The countrys Foreign Ministry announced Mona Juuls resignation on Sunday evening, just days after she was suspended as Norways ambassador to Jordan. Foreign Minister Espen Barthe Eide said that Ms Juuls decision was correct and necessary. Her contact with the sex offender showed a serious lapse in judgement and the case makes it difficult to restore the trust that the role requires, he said. A ministry investigation into Ms Juul's knowledge of and contact with Epstein will continue, Mr Eide said, and Ms Juul will continue discussions with the ministry so that the matter can be clarified. The ministry said it had also launched a review of its funding of and contact with the International Peace Institute, a New York-based think tank, during the period when it was headed by Ms Juuls husband Terje Rd-Larsen. open image in gallery ( Reuters ) Mr Eide said Mr Rd-Larsen also had shown poor judgment regarding Epstein. Mr Rd-Larsen and Ms Juul were among those involved in facilitating the landmark Oslo Accords aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the 1990s. Ms Juul acknowledged in a statement to Norwegian news agency NTB last week that it had been imprecise to describe her contact with Epstein as minimal, but said that the contact originated in her husband's relationship with Epstein and she had no independent social or professional relationship with him. She wrote that her contact with Epstein had been sporadic and private, not part of her official duties, but acknowledged that she should have been much more careful. open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in his jail cell in August 2019 ( PA Media ) The latest batch of Epstein files has cast an unflattering spotlight on several prominent Norwegian figures. Crown Princess Mette-Marit on Friday issued an apology to all of you whom I have disappointed" after documents offered more details of her relationship with Epstein. The countrys economic crimes unit has opened a corruption investigation into former prime minister Thorbjrn Jagland who also once headed the committee that hands out the Nobel Peace Prize over his ties with Epstein. His lawyer said Mr Jagland would cooperate. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice It may appear to be a metaphorical leap to equate the alleged actions of Peter Mandelson with many of Britains water companies poisoning rivers with excrement. But it isnt. They are both on the edge of treason in an age when impunity is the nations greatest vulnerability. Liberal democracies, like the UK, have become complacent in defending the norms that underpin what separates them from whats emerging in America and already has a grip on Russia. Among liberals and progressives, a contempt for patriotism helps our enemies and threatens us. Patriotism has been largely hijacked by populist right-wing movements who have harnessed xenophobia and racism, rampant inequality, and social media into a jingoistic cocktail that suits our enemies it doesnt help motivate the West to defend itself. It has turned Reform leader Nigel Farage, Marine Le Pen, the disgraced former leader of Frances National Front, Hungarys Victor Orban, and anyone arguing that Russias invasion of Ukraine was Natos fault, into useful idiots in the service of the Kremlin. open image in gallery Peter Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the US last February ( PA Media ) Faith in Britains rulers, and rules, was fatally undermined by Tony Blair and a servile civil service, all of whom conspired to lie Britain into a war in Iraq. Since then, weve seen bankers survive the 2008 economic crash they created, crappy British officers who got soldiers stuck in Helmand, Boris Johnsons Covid cronies, and all manner of white-collar charlatans thrive and prosper. Swerving prosecution is one thing. But how come these baddies are not being shunned or better still, tarred and feathered? Britains water company bosses would be in the nick if their motives for poisoning the nations water sources were political. But theyre multimillionaires who, no doubt, enjoy a vivid social life they in no way deserve. Blair continues to swank around the world at the head of his institute for global change while his chief propagandist, Alastair Campbell, who spun Britain to war, enjoys a third chapter in his life as a much-loved podcast superstar. open image in gallery Boris Johnson joked about breaking Covid restrictions with staff ( PA Media ) The impunity of leaders of all kinds in the UK and their abject lack of shame has hopelessly demotivated a nation in peril. Mandelsons alleged leaks of confidential cabinet-level information to a known paedophile, who ran a known network of fellow perverts and who has a record of malpractice and corruption as long as his adult life, should not be seen as merely alleged insider dealing, stupidity, or sad. At a time when the United Kingdom and her allies are already engaged in a hybrid war with Russia one that began when Mandelson was emailing weapons-grade gossip and memos to Jeffrey Epstein such behaviour should be seen for what it is: unpatriotic and treasonable. But in Britain, the liberal left cant be seen carrying a union flag or wearing the St Georges Cross for fear of being associated with the vulgar stupidity of the right. Nor would your average left-winger say theyd fight for their country. According to a poll by Electoral Calculus last October, 33 per cent of Labour Party voters said they would be unlikely to fight for their country, while 20 per cent said they would never take up arms. open image in gallery The liberal left cant be seen carrying a union flag or wearing the St Georges Cross for fear of being associated with the vulgar stupidity of the right ( Getty ) An earlier Ipsos poll found that 48 per cent of the UK population said that under no circumstances would they take up arms to defend the UK. Lib Dems were the least patriotic by this metric, with 48 per cent; Labour came in at 47 per cent. For all the tub-thumping imperial nostalgia that so marks their campaigning, the Tories (41 per cent) and Reform (40 per cent) showed near equal reluctance to put their hearts where their mouths are. Britain has been enfeebled by years of top-level abuse that has gone unpunished. No wonder young people dont feel their country is worth fighting for. They may, for example, have noticed that although the 2016 Brexit referendum was most certainly the target of pro-Brexit Kremlin propaganda and influence operations, a parliamentary report into the subject was held back from publication from March 2019 to July 2020. Its investigations precluded any look at whether Russias efforts to influence a pro-Brexit vote had been successful. When the results of the report were finally released, they were only seen by British voters after they could have reflected their views in the December 2019 general election. So we should not be surprised that young people feel disenfranchised. The people were likely to have to send to war don't feel that they are part of a country worth defending. open image in gallery Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with the Security Councils permanent members in Moscow on 6 February 2026 ( Sputnik ) A year ago, YouGov found that 41 per cent of 18- to 27-year-olds would not fight for Britain under any circumstances. But 47 per cent said that the UK remained a tolerant country. It is that tradition along with the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, and vigorous democracy that is worth defending, and that will need defending. To galvanise a nation towards being able to defend the freedoms it takes for granted, its population needs to see that its leaders cannot act with impunity. When crooks and cranks are exposed, they must be jailed or sent to social Siberia. Mandelson may get his comeuppance, but that would just be a start. Close Deadly Russian attacks in Zaporizhzhia intensify On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky says he will not present a bad deal to end the war for a referendum, and that his country will only hold elections once firm security guarantees and a ceasefire are in place. Zelensky was speaking ahead of Friday's Munich Security Conference, where there is a chance he will meet US secretary of state Marco Rubio. Zelensky said Ukraine was ready for both presidential elections and a referendum on any peace agreement with Russia, but set clear conditions for when that could happen. The tactic we chose is for the Americans not to think that we want to continue the war, Zelensky told The Atlantic. Thats why we started supporting their proposals in any format that speeds things along. I dont think we should put a bad deal up for a referendum, he added. Zelensky expressed gratitude to Sir Keir Starmer and John Healey for a new and timely air defence package worth 500m on the eve of Friday's conference. The European leaders gathering in Germany are hoping for clarity around US president Donald Trumps inconsistent geopolitical policies and threats that have caused concern for transatlantic relations and the post-World War II international order. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The suspect of an attack on a top Russian general has been extradited to Moscow after being arrested in Dubai, according to Russias security service. Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev was shot in an alleged assassination attempt on Friday, and is currently recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery. Lyubomir Korba, a Russian citizen who Moscow says was working under Kyivs instructions, has now been detained in Dubai and is now in detention in Russia. Ukraine denies all involvement in the attack, which comes following a spate of killings of senior military officers in Moscow last year that were linked by Russia to Ukraine. Here is everything we know about the shooting of a senior military intelligence officer so far. open image in gallery Vladimir Alexeyev was reportedly involved in the 2018 Salisbury poisonings ( Russian Defence Ministry ) What happened? On Friday, Alexeyev was shot several times by an unidentified person in a residential building of northwest Moscow, according to the Russian Investigative Committee. A manhunt was instantly launched for the shooter and a criminal case was opened for attempted murder. Moscow said the attacker fired three shots before fleeing to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the hours after the attack. Investigators conducted a thorough inspection at the scene, during which they discovered the murder weapon - a Makarov pistol with a silencer and three rounds of ammunition, said Svetlana Petrenko a spokesperson for the Russian Investigative Committee (ICR). She added that forensic tests are being carried out on the gun. On Saturday, Russian newspaper Kommersant, citing a source close to the investigation, reported that the two suspects would soon be interrogated before being charged. open image in gallery The assassination attempt took place in a residential building in northwest Moscow ( REUTERS ) Korba, a Ukrainian-born Russian citizen, has been extradited to Moscow after being arrested by authorities in Dubai, on suspicion of gravely injuring Alexeyev, Russian security officials said on Sunday. On Sunday, Russian president Vladimir Putin thanked his UAE counterpart Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for helping with Korbas detention during a phone call on Saturday evening, Russian agencies reported, citing Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Who is Lt Gen Alexeyev? The Ukrainian-born 64-year-old has served as the first deputy head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces (GRU) since 2011. He was decorated with the Hero of Russia medal for his role in Moscow's military campaign in Syria. Alexeyev was placed under sanctions by the EU and UK after they accused the GRU of being responsible for the 2018 Salisbury nerve agent attack. He has also been accused of interfering in the 2020 US presidential election by instructing officials in Kyiv to accuse Donald Trumps opposing candidate, Joe Biden, of money laundering via Ukrainian holding company Burisma. He has also held close ties with paramilitary and mercenary groups, such as the Wagner group led by the late Yevgeney Prigozhin. Kommersant reports that he was one of the paramilitary groups founders. open image in gallery A police officer comes out of a residential building where the assassination attempt on Alexeyev took place in Moscow ( Reuters ) What have Moscow and Kyiv said? Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov described the assassination attempt as an act of terrorism which he said showed Kyivs determination to engage in constant provocations, aimed in turn at derailing the negotiation process. Moscows Federal Security Service (FSB) has now said that the attempted assassination of general Vladimir Alexeyev was ordered by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), according to Interfax news agency. Kyiv has denied any involvement in Friday's attempted assassination. Russia said that the suspected shooter, Korba, had been questioned after he was extradited from Dubai. A suspected accomplice, Viktor Vasin, has also been questioned. Moscow said a woman named as Zinaida Serebritskaya, who has left for Ukraine, was also thought to be involved, but did not elaborate on how. Korba and Vasin, the FSB said, had "confessed their guilt", the FSB added. Korba was recruited by the SBU in August 2025 in Ternopil, western Ukraine, underwent training in Kyiv and was paid monthly in crypto-currency. For killing Alexeyev, Korba was promised $30,000 by the SBU, the FSB said. It added that Polish intelligence was involved in his recruitment, but authorities in Warsaw are yet to comment. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice At least 20 people have been killed in an attack by Islamic State-backed rebels on a village in eastern Congo over the weekend, the military confirmed on Monday. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) carried out the assault early on Saturday in Mambimbi-Isigo village, located in the Lubero territory of North Kivu province. Colonel Alain Kiwewa Mitela, a military administrator, relayed the details to The Associated Press. The attack has triggered a significant displacement of residents, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis in the region, Col Mitela added. Local civil society activists reported that the rebels initially targeted several farmers' fields before turning on civilians with knives and firearms. There has been no immediate statement from the ADF. This toll is still provisional because many civilians are missing, Kinos Kitwa, head of civil society in Bapere, said. He criticized the small number of Congolese army troops in the area. Armed groups, including the ADF and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, have carried out several deadly attacks in eastern Congo. The ADF, which pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in 2019, operates along the border with Uganda and often targets civilians. At least 62 civilians have been killed since the beginning of the year by ADF fighters in the Beni and Lubero territories, according to the North Kivu Provincial Civil Society Coordination. On Monday, U.N. peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix began a two-day official visit to eastern Congo, including Beni, which has been particularly affected by ADF attacks. The ADF was formed by disparate small groups in Uganda in the late 1990s following discontent with President Yoweri Museveni. In 2002, following Ugandan military strikes, the group moved to neighboring Congo and has been blamed for the killings of thousands of civilians.In July 2025, the group carried out a series of attacks that killed more than 100 people. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An AirAsia flight from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to Brisbane last night following a change in cabin pressure a few hours into the flight. After departing from Sydney at 9:50pm, Flight D7221 was scheduled to arrive in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at 3:30pm, but the aircraft needed to change course at at 11:56pm local time. AirAsia told The Independent: Shortly after takeoff, the flight crew observed an alert related to cabin pressure. While the cabin pressure remained at a safe level, the Captain chose to make a precautionary diversion to Brisbane airport, in line with established operational safety procedures. The aircraft will undergo a detailed engineering assessment in line with safety protocols. The aircraft sent the international general emergency code "squawking 7700 when the alert was noted, which is used by pilots in emergency situations. The airline said: All 142 guests and 11 crew disembarked without incident. With passengers and crew in Brisbane, AirAsia shared an updated flight schedule: Once the aircraft has been assessed and deemed safe to operate, guests will continue their journey to KUL. The newest estimation of time of departure from Brisbane to Kuala Lumpur is 7:00pm on Monday 9 February. All guests have been accommodated, and service recovery options are being offered. Benyamin Ismail, General Manager at AirAsia X said: This precautionary diversion was carried out in line with our operational safety procedures. Our flight crew are highly trained in safety procedures and took the appropriate measures for an issue of this nature. Guests were kept informed by the crew, and have all received accommodation and food vouchers while travel arrangements are being made. We sincerely thank our guests for their patience and understanding throughout the situation. Read more: What rights do you have to compensation for cancelled or delayed flights? Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton confirmed their long-rumoured romance with a public outing to Super Bowl LX together. The pair could be seen sitting together at the Levis Stadium in Santa Clara on Sunday (8 February), where they watched the New England Patriots vs the Seattle Seahawks. Footage shows the couple chatting to one another and smiling from the stands, with the pair latest picture kissing. Kardashian and Hamilton are understood to have taken numerous trips together since the New Year, including visits to London and Paris. Airline urges US not to impose counterproductive retaliatory measures Aer Lingus has again urged the US Department of Transportation to allow Irish legislative, planning and judicial process in relation to the passenger cap at Dublin Airport to play out before inflicting a curtailment or suspension of flights by Irish airlines between the capital and the United States. It comes as the Irish Government has just approved plans for legislation that will remove the cap and anticipates that this will be done by the end of the year. US lobby group Airlines for America (A4A) has asked the US government to consider the suspensions, alleging the cap is damaging the economic interests of American airlines operating or hoping to operate out of Dublin. Aer Lingus respectfully requests that the Department deny the complaint and allow the Irish legislative and judicial processes to reach favourable completion, Aer Lingus has stated in a fresh submission to the US government. Aer Lingus strenuously opposes the implementation of unwarranted and counterproductive retaliatory measures. It is the second submission to the US Department of Transportation by Aer Lingus in less than two weeks. A4A has claimed that because of the cap, Ireland is in breach of the EU-US Open Skies Agreement an argument that has been rejected by the Irish Government. A4A has already urged the US Department of Transportation to curtail or suspend flights by Irish carriers from Ireland to the United States until the Dublin Airport passenger cap is removed. The impact of that would be felt almost exclusively by Aer Lingus. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) had previously sought to impose restrictions on the number of available take-off and landing slots at Dublin Airport to ensure the cap wasnt breached. An advocate general of the Court of Justice of the European Union will on Thursday publish an opinion in relation to legal action that has been taken in Ireland by Aer Lingus and Ryanair to challenge those efforts by the IAA to enforce the cap. That opinion will be followed by a ruling some months later. The Irish Independent reported last month that Aer Lingus told the US Department of Transportation it would have incurred 130m in lost revenue in 2025 and 2026, and further losses thereafter, had the IAA been permitted to impose restrictions to ensure the Dublin Airport cap was adhered to. A4A has claimed to the US Department of Transportation that the other members of its group planning to inaugurate services to Dublin would be hit by restrictions it says were imposed on JetBlue in 2024. But Aer Lingus part of the IAG group that also owns British Airways, Iberia and Vueling has said the claim is incorrect and misleading. Slots remain available in the normal course to accommodate new entrants at Dublin Airport subject only to infrastructure constraints, it has told the US Department of Transportation in its latest response. There is quite simply no past or ongoing harm to US carriers that would justify approval of the complaint at this time. Aer Lingus respectfully urges the Department to deny the complaint to allow adequate time for the Irish legislative, planning, and judicial processes to play out, it added. Enterprise Minister Peter Burke is due to formally launch the European Space Agency (ESA) Phi-Lab Ireland in Mullingar on Friday. Photo: PA Business activity picks up further this week with a run of trade events, company results and the launch of a new space lab in Mullingar, Co Westmeath. First there will be a focus on the hospitality sector, with the RDS hosting a two-day industry expo tomorrow and Wednesday, February 10 and 11. It will be the first large gathering of the year for a sector still keeping a nervous eye on costs and consumer spending. Tomorrow, Culture, Communications and Sport Minister Patrick ODonovan will outline details of the successor to the Basic Income for the Arts pilot programme at Bewleys on Grafton Street. Smurfit Westrock releases its fiscal year results for 2025 on Wednesday. The Irish packaging groups update could offer a useful insight into wider economic trends, as demand for boxes and paper products can track retail, manufacturing and e-commerce volumes. Patrick O'Donovan Also on Wednesday, Irish tech firms will be looking abroad, with companies attending Techarena 2026 in Stockholm, a Nordic tech summit aimed at linking start-ups with investors and partners. Speakers will include ex-UK prime minister Boris Johnson. On Wednesday and Thursday, Central Bank governor Gabriel Makhlouf will visit Sligo and Leitrim, as part of the institutions outreach programme. Friday brings two releases from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Figures on vehicles licensed for the first time in January will give an insight into the new car market, always a useful barometer of general consumer confidence. Payroll employees estimates for December will also be published, providing an updated picture of employment levels and pay across the economy. Also on Friday, Mullingar hosts the launch of the European Space Agencys (ESA) Phi-Lab Ireland, based at the Irish Manufacturing Research Institute. The centre aims to support space-related and deep-tech development, including advanced manufacturing, AI and Earth observation projects. Enterprise Minister Peter Burke will launch the facility as part of Irelands wider 170m commitment to ESA projects over the next five years. Irelands northern and western region to be designated as more developed, meaning millions of euro less funding per year Border counties are set to lose out on favourable European Union funding available to other poorer districts because the European Commission is upgrading the wider northern and western region of Ireland to a more developed region from a transition region for the next EU funding period. The Commission confirmed the new designation for the next EU funding period, which runs from 2028 to 2034, in an official document sent to the Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA), its economist John Daly said. The assembly is the regions managing authority for the European Regional Development Fund, which transfers money from the EUs richer regions and invests it in the infrastructure of the blocs poorer regions by co-financing investments with the member states national governments. Because the border counties will be categorised as more developed, the rate of EU co-financing of infrastructure projects will drop to 40pc from 60pc from 2028. This means, for instance, that if a 100m project is taking place in Donegal, it would receive 40m instead of 60m from the EU and the Government would have to fund the gap. This will make it less appealing for Government to fund a project, Mr Daly said. Border counties will suffer as a result. The NWRA, one of three regional assemblies in Ireland, is tasked with supporting economic development in Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan. The region was classified by the Commission as a transition region for the current funding round, from 2021 to 2027, as it had a GDP per capita of between 75pc and 100pc of the EU average in the years 2015, 2016 and 2017. NWRA GDP per head of population has since increased to above EU average, although that is not true on border counties. Donegal, Cavan, Sligo, Leitrim and Monaghan have a combined GDP per capita of 68pc of the EU average, on a par with Eastern European regions classified by the EU as being less developed, Mr Daly said. Theres been really strong employment gains in Galway in the last decade By contrast, Galway, Mayo and Roscommon have a GDP per capita of 129pc of the EU average. Last week, data from the Central Statistics Office showed that the border counties had a GDP of 32,617 per person, compared to 182,305 in Dublin, where big employers include the European headquarters of a number of multinational tech giants. Mr Daly believes economic, population and employment growth in Galway has skewed the older GDP per capita figures relied upon by the Commission to reclassify the northern and western region of Ireland as a more developed region. About 58pc of the people employed by IDA companies in our region are in Galway, up three percentage points form a decade ago, he said. Theres been really strong employment gains in Galway in the last decade, with Dexcom in Athenry, and Boston Scientific and Medtronic in Galway city. Then theres the wider med-tech cluster in Galway city and the fact that its home to significant research assets like ATU and the University of Galway. But weve seen significant divergence since 2019 between the three western counties, where GDP per capita has been progressively rising, and the border counties. A major reason for this has been the growth of the Galway city metropolitan area, he said. Rental reforms are due to come in next month. Stock image: Getty Housing charity Threshold has expressed concern about controversial new rent reforms due to come in next month. The reforms aim to stabilise the sector by introducing nationwide rent controls, enhancing security of tenure and restructuring no-fault evictions. Six-year tenancies are to be introduced, giving tenants certainty around rental costs. But Threshold said the provision under the new rules that allow landlords limited scope to reset between tenancies was concerning. Despite the proposed improvements to security of tenure, Threshold is extremely concerned about the decision to allow landlords to set rents to market levels between tenancies, particularly after a renter leaves voluntarily or is evicted for breach of contract. We are urging the Government to remedy this gap in the legislation, it said in a statement. The housing charity said giving landlords an option to set market rents between tenancies may result in an unintended consequence. It said this would hit those who need to move home, forcing them to pay high rents within three to four years and see their overall rental security undermined. We are not aware of any modelling done to determine the impact this change could have on market rent levels. It said a study conducted by Threshold and Housing Rights NI shows that around a quarter of renters in the Republic left their last rental tenancy voluntarily. Market trends already show tenants who move home pay higher rents, this will only be exacerbated by the proposed legislation, Threshold said. Unaffordable rents will undermine the new security of tenure protections, it said. If the Government proceeds with the planned market rent resets, it will be crucial that the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is raised in line with market rents, the housing charity said. Last week estate agents have called on the Government to pause radical reforms to the rental market due to be implemented from next month. The annual residential property review from the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland (SCSI) shows member estate agents believe the planned changes are destabilising the rental market by forcing landlords to sell up ahead of them coming into force. The reforms, which come into force from March 1, aim to stabilise the sector by introducing nationwide rent controls, enhancing security of tenure and restructuring no-fault evictions. They also place restrictions on landlords selling properties with vacant possession. Estate agents have also expressed concerns about the extension of Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) across the country. When asked about how it would impact the rental market, 86pc of surveyed estate agents said it would encourage more landlords to leave. Reasons cited included rent legislation being too complex and restrictive, net rental returns being too low, and landlords coming out of negative equity. The SCSI called on the Government to pause the rental reforms. SCSI president Gerard OToole said this would allow time for consultation and engagement with landlords. Smaller landlords make up almost a quarter of the market and the SCSI believes they require urgent support. Sinn Fein housing spokesman Eoin O Broin claimed renters taking up new tenancies from next month could end up paying an average of 17pc more on their rent by the end of this year. The could amount to an average increase of 249 on monthly payments. Minister of State with responsibility for forestry, Michael Healy-Rae, has issued a blunt "use it or lose it" ultimatum to landowners crippled by ash dieback, warning that the window for compensation will be slammed shut in December 2027. Speaking on the progress of the recently launched reconstitution scheme, the Minister said to date, 8,844 hectares, representing over 55% of the total 16,000-hectare national ash plantation, have either been paid out, approved, or are currently being processed. However, for the owners of the remaining 7,000-plus hectares who have yet to engage with the Department, the Ministers message was stark. The Minister urged farmers to look past the "dead trees standing" and embrace a package he described as "very adequate." "In December of 2027, we will be cutting off the support," Minister Healy-Rae confirmed. "That tells people they have 24 months to once and for all make up their mind what they're going to do. Dont come looking for compensation then." The Minister urged farmers to look past the "dead trees standing" and embrace a package he described as "very adequate." Under the current scheme, landowners are eligible for 10,000 per hectare: 2,000 for clearing, 3,000 for replanting, and a 5,000 tax-free payment directly to the owner. Addressing concerns regarding the upfront costs of clearing and replanting, which can be a significant barrier for smaller landowners, the Minister remained firm on the schemes structure. "The terms of the scheme are the terms of the scheme," he insisted, suggesting that farmers utilise the common practice of mandating grants to forestry companies to cover initial works. For a farmer with 10ha of decimated ash, the Minister said walking away from the scheme means walking away from 100,000. "Its going to be a massive loss to them and their families," he warned. "Id rather if the ash dieback had never come here, but the money is there and the package is there. It is a lot better to be looking at a small tree growing than an old tree dying. For goodness sake, why let time go? Time is more valuable than money." Take it up with God Sinn Feins Agriculture Spokesperson, Martin Kenny, challenged the Minister on the "lifetime of loss" facing farmers following recent devastating storms and the ongoing ash dieback saga. Deputy Kenny painted a bleak picture of the mood music in rural Ireland, arguing that landowners who viewed forestry as a "pension fund" are now left with a "tangled mess" of fallen Sitka Spruce. He warned that unlike a failed crop of barley or a TB outbreak, where a farmer can recover in a year or two, a storm-felled 20-year-old forest represents a generational setback. "Its a permanent change of land use," Kenny noted, "and people are saying 'not anymore' when they see what has happened." However, the Minister was in no mood for "negativity," firing back with a barrage of statistics. Healy-Rae insisted that despite the 2025 storms, afforestation figures are actually on the rise. "I understand facts," the Minister said. "More people planted new ground last year than the year before. They knew what happened to others, and they still elected to give over their land." When Kenny highlighted the high costs of clearing windblow, arguing that meagre pulpwood prices from sawmills leave farmers with nothing, the Minister accused him of being "factually incorrect." He pointed to a 55m reconstitution fund designed to cover replanting costs. "Take it up with God if you have an issue with the storm," Healy-Rae quipped, and said the government is providing the money so farmers don't have to reinvest their own timber sales back into replanting. An associate of the Dundon-McCarthy gang has been jailed for 15 years after he fatally shot Noel Campion, fled to the US and was then deported to Ireland having told several people including a police officer that he had killed a man. I deserve to see abuser in court, but time is not on my side Rockwell survivor on desperate fight for justice What happened to Derek McCarthy at the Spiritan school stunted his life. With only one of the alleged perpetrators still living, he is despairing at delays in bringing abuser to court Derek McCarthy seeks justice for abuse suffered while attending Rockwell College Catherine Fegan Mon 9 Feb 2026 at 06:30 Derek McCarthy is running out of time. Three out of the four men who abused him as a child are now dead. Collaring the other still-living abuser, an elderly Spiritan priest, is his last hope at getting justice. Details have been announced for the funeral of a man who died in last Thursdays fatal bus crash in Dublin city centre. Frank Daly (86) died when he and a group of pedestrians were struck by a double-decker Bus Eireann bus as it came off the junction of Talbot Street and Marlborough Street, onto the beginning of the pedestrianised North Earl Street in Dublin city centre. Two other pedestrians - a man in his 20s and a woman in her 30s - were taken to hospital with injuries described as "non-life-threatening", although the man's were additionally described as "serious". Gardai and emergency services at a scene after a Bus Eireann vehicle crashed on the padestrianised North Earl Street. Picture by Mark Condren An Garda Siochana has asked anyone with photographs or video of the incident to make them available to the investigation team at Store Street Garda Station. Mr Daly leaves behind his brother Dermot, sisters Elizabeth and Patricia and a host of nephews, nieces and good friends following his tragic passing, a funeral notice posted online said. His funeral service will take place on Friday at 11am at St Josephs Church in East Wall. On Thursday, Mr Daly will repose at Staffords Funeral Home on the North Strand Road from 3pm to 5pc. He will be removed to the church on Friday where he will arrive at 10:50am before his burial at Mount Jerome Cemetery at 1 oclock. Mr Daly, originally from East Wall, still lived there on his own. He was very popular amongst his neighbours in the area who described him as a gentleman and intelligent. "He would leave in the morning and go into town. Talbot Street and North Earl Street were where he would go. He would drop into the bookies and then go up to a cafe for lunch. He loved Anns Bakery, said neighbour Caitriona Ni Ni Cassaithe. She added: He would travel abroad to see his sisters in America, he was very active and independent. Everyone was fond of Frank and well all miss him. Another neighbour, Caroline McCann, said Mr Daly would be deeply missed. He was a good neighbour, she said. He was a private person, and loved going into town every day. He was a man of the world really in that he knew a lot about things, he was intelligent. We used to look out for him to see hed be home safe, and his nephews were very good to him. Mr Culleton is originally from Co Kilkenny, but has been living in the US for almost 20 years An Irishman who has been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has described the facilities as like a modern-day concentration camp. Seamus Culleton said he would like Taoiseach Micheal Martin to raise his case with US president Donald Trump during his meeting at the White House in March for St Patricks Day. Mr Culleton is originally from Co Kilkenny, but has been living in the US for almost 20 years, has a valid work permit and is married to a US citizen. He was driving home after finishing work when he was detained by ICE agents last September. He said he noticed a man with blue sunglasses was driving the car and then several others appeared around him. Ive been locked in the same room now for four-and-a-half months Mr Culleton said he was asked if he had a green card and he said he did not, but said he was married to a US citizen, had a work permit and was due to receive his green card. Officers detained him and initially put him into a holding cell in Massachusetts before he was taken to New York then to the detention centre in El Paso in Texas, thousands of kilometres from his home. Mr Culleton claimed that ICE agents had tried to get him to sign deportation papers, which he said he absolutely did not. He described the detention centre in El Paso as horrible, adding there was little sanitation, limited food and that it was tough to stay positive. He said he was in fear of his life from the security firm in charge, whom he said were capable of anything, and said that it is not easy to predict what will happen. Mr Culleton said there were 72 people in a tent with no ceiling, with two rows of bunk beds on either side and a long table down the middle. Tiffany Smyth and Seamus Culleton He described the conditions at the camp as filthy, the toilets and showers as nasty and said illnesses were rife among those being detained. We get three meals a day very small meals, kid-size meals. It's very hard to sleep at night with all the noise. So everybody's hungry, everybody's tired," he told RTE Radio Ones Liveline on the phone from the detention facility. We've got no options to get extra food or anything like that, and the conditions here are filthy, the toilets, the showers, completely nasty, very rarely cleaned. There are no sanitation products. We're often without hygiene products, shampoo and soap." He said there was competition for food and said he had definitely lost weight. There is no real quality of life here. Ive been locked in the same room now for four and a half months, Mr Culleton said. Ive had barely any outside time, no fresh air, no sunshine. I could probably count on both hands the amount of times Ive been outside." He said he would like Taoiseach Micheal Martin to bring up his case with Donald Trump during his St Patricks Day visit to the Oval Office. Mr Culleton said his ordeal had been an absolute torture". Id be so grateful if we could just end this ASAP. Ive been detained now for five months, locked in the same room for four and a half of those months. Its just torture. I dont know how much more I can take, he said. "I just want to get back to my wife. We're so desperate to start a family, my own family at home in Ireland is all suffering. My mother, especially, she's heartbroken that I'm in here. I talk to her most days. She's just heartbroken over the whole situation. I don't want her health to get any worse. She's constantly worrying and stressing about me. It's not fair on her. Just do as much as you can to try to get me out of here. Mr Culleton, who has been in contact with the Irish consulate in Austin, Texas, said he is currently in limbo, as he doesnt know whats next for him. They're known to hold people for long periods down here before deporting them, and especially me, because I have accused the ICE agents of signing my name without any real evidence to back it up. They may just hold me for months and months as punishment," he said. Irishman Seamus Culleton with his American wife Tiffany Smyth News in 90 Seconds - 9th February 2026 On the same programme, Mr Culletons American wife, Tiffany, described the shock of his detention and the awful experience of trying to maintain contact with him. She said she did not hear from him for almost a week after an initial phone call following his arrest, and said she did not know if he was deported and had no idea if he was safe. Asked if she had been allowed to visit her husband, she said ICE officially allows visits, but it is almost impossible to set one up. She said she had booked flights from Massachusetts to Texas to attend one of Mr Culletons court dates, but the hearing was moved on the day before her journey. Hes a good man. I dont think anyone deserves this, but Seamus definitely doesnt deserve this, she said. Earlier, Mr Culletons sister, Caroline, said his family still does not know why he was detained. There are no words. I mean the way theyre being kept and theyre locked up, and hes only been allowed out a couple of times, she said. They dont see the sunlight. They dont get out. Their health deteriorates. She said he has lost an awful lot of weight, adding that he has sores, infections and hair loss. She told the News at One programme that his ongoing detention was heartbreaking for our mother and his extended family. A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs told the Irish Independent that Minister Helen McEntee is aware of this case. Consular assistance is being provided to the citizen involved and his family by our Consulate General in Austin, Texas, and our Consular Unit in Dublin, they said. "Our Embassy in Washington DC is also engaging directly with the Department of Homeland Security at a senior level in relation to this case, they added. Nurses at Naas General Hospital are set to take industrial action, starting a work-to-rule from Monday over what the INMO has described as unacceptable and unsafe staffing deficits. Members of the union will also hold a protest outside the hospital at lunchtime on Monday. The INMO said the industrial action may escalate further if staffing issues are not resolved. The union said it has engaged with the HSE on staffing issues at the hospital, however no substantive action has been taken to increase staffing in line with agreed safe staffing frameworks. It said there have also been failures to fill maternity leave vacancies and increase staffing in response to a more than 25pc increase in the number of people attending the emergency department at Naas General Hospital over the last three years. INMO assistant director of industrial relations Bernadette Stetson said members are dealing with immense pressure, unsafe working conditions and continuous redeployment to different clinical areas to fill the most dangerous staffing gaps. The hospitals ability to meet demand has become entirely dependent on our members stretching themselves to breaking point, she said. They now have no choice but to highlight existing shortfalls by beginning a work-to-rule action. Nurses in Naas do not want to take this action, but they see no alternative [unless] there is meaningful change in the hospital and significant measures taken to ensure their safety and the safety of their patients. INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said short staffing is a huge problem at Naas General Hospital and highly-skilled theatre nurses are owed hundreds of hours of time back. This type of employment pattern is being replicated in hospital sites across the country. The HSE must now meaningfully engage and ensure funded posts are being filled. The HSE in a statement confirmed the industrial action began over the weekend despite ongoing engagement and efforts to resolve the issues raised. While discussions between the parties to date have not resulted in agreement, the HSE remains willing and available to engage constructively with the INMO at any time in order to reach a sustainable resolution. Naas General Hospital has put a range of measures in place to manage services and minimise disruption during the period of industrial action. However, patients and the public should be aware that there may be some delays to patient flow through the hospital as a result. Every effort is being made to prioritise patient safety and maintain essential services, a HSE spokesperson said. The HSE said there has been significant growth in the hospital workforce in recent years. "Total staff numbers increased from 796 Whole-time equivalent (WTE) in December 2021 to 1,008 WTE in November 2025 an increase of 212 WTE, or 27pc, over four years. Approved nursing staff numbers have grown from 358 WTE in December 2022 to 433 WTE in December 2025, representing an increase of 75 WTE, or 21pc. The HSE fully recognises and sincerely appreciates the continued professionalism, flexibility and commitment shown by staff at Naas General Hospital, the spokesperson said. A Government TD has called for Ireland to take greater interest in the Polar regions and join the Antarctic Treaty System. After US President Donald Trumps demands to acquire Greenland and his threats of related tariffs, Fianna Fail Deputy Malcolm Byrne has called on the Government to look at how Ireland is impacted by events at the top and bottom of the globe. A woman makes her way through floodwaters in Arklow, Co Wicklow. Photo: Michael Kelly Madam Storm Chandra exposed a familiar Irish policy problem: institutions judging themselves by process, while the public judges them by outcome (Weather alerts and flood relief set for overhaul after Chandra, February 1). Last weekends Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll captured it neatly. Met Eireann enjoys high general trust, yet when it mattered most, nearly half of respondents felt the public were not adequately warned. That is not a forecasting failure so much as a translation failure. Colour-coded alerts were designed for simplicity, but simplicity becomes distortion when context is stripped away. A Yellow warning after weeks of saturated ground does not mean what a Yellow warning means in August. Citizens intuitively grasp this; the system, as currently designed, does not. The lesson is not that people distrust expertise. This is not the case. The lesson is that modern risk is cumulative and local, while our warning systems remain episodic and national. Flooding is no longer about a single storm, it is about what came before it. Unless warnings evolve towards impact-based, place-specific messaging, governments will keep tightening emergency powers and fast-tracking infrastructure to compensate for a credibility gap upstream. In other words, we will pour concrete where clearer communication might have reduced damage in the first place. When trust is high, but satisfaction is low, the problem is rarely science. It is design. Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Armagh RTE staff punished for mistakes of the past Madam Claire Byrnes interview with Niamh Horan (I didnt understand why I deserved to have my salary capped, February 1) was insightful, not just about RTE, but organisations generally. RTE has tightened control after previous leaders allowed presenters and their agents to overplay the system, paying them for work they did not do for RTE at one extreme. Now the organisation has flipped to total control. Take Byrnes example of having to fill in forms before doing a pro bono charity gig. It is understandable, but it is an overcorrection. They will not be able to retain or attract the best people if they stay like that. To become more responsive again, RTE needs to loosen control. It could start by stopping the infringement of peoples rights to do what they want in their own time, as long as it does not undermine the organisation. They can issue guidelines and advice on this and deal with breaches after they happen, but they need to trust their people more and not allow past mistakes to dictate how they deal with the rest of their staff. Kevin Kelly, Bettystown, Co Meath Spilling the beans a bad look for Byrne Madam I was disappointed to read last weekends interview with Claire Byrne. We all know RTE has had huge issues in the past couple of years after the overpayment scandal, the breakdown in public trust and a considerable loss of licence fee money, but I was shocked that she would air her dirty laundry in public like that. She may have been treated less favourably than other presenters, and I would never condone that, but she should be counting her lucky stars. She has had an amazing career, has the luxury now of nobody knowing her salary and she can do as many private gigs as she wants with no scrutiny. How many people have the opportunity to publicly criticise the employer that made their name while walking into a very well-paid new job? I always found Byrne to be dignified, professional and a very skilled interviewer. She didnt seem the type to spill the beans on her old employer. Michael Dunphy, Co Waterford Flatley a victim of Irish begrudgery Madam Michael Flatley is right to defend his good name (Do you know any poor people who moved to Monaco?, February 1). Here is a man who was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He physically worked very hard, and it is one of the admirable things about his character that he doesnt forget where he came from. What is it about the people of this land that they are so into bringing down anyone, but particularly artists and writers? This man has done so much not just for Irish culture, but also for the world of dance. Beyond these shores, his shows are always sold out. People come away from the performances with renewed confidence in themselves and in the endless possibilities of art. Richard McSweeney, Tallow, Co Waterford Misguided NGOs in dire need of reform Madam In her excellent letter (February 1), Sandra Adams points out how many of our NGOs have moved far from their original purpose to the point of parody. Nowhere is this seen more clearly than in the involvement of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in the production of a booklet on trans rights that seems to deliberately mislead schools and others on the law of the land. That many of these NGOs, such as the National Womens Council, do not represent the views of those they supposedly represent was shown in recent referendums when they and other NGOs campaigned for a Yes vote before being soundly defeated. If our politicians had any real interest in how our country is run and taxpayers money is spent, they might call for a root-and-branch examination of our NGOs. Is there any politician with the courage to bell the cat? Julia Anderson, Kilpedder, Co Wicklow Meat in school meals must be cruelty-free Madam Parents expect the meals children receive to be nutritious, but they also expect them to meet ethical animal welfare standards (Jamie Oliver-style revamp on menu for hot school meals as parents complain about ultra-processed food, February 1). For that reason, it is important that meat from animals slaughtered by ritual means that is, without prior stunning for religious reasons does not find its way into the mainstream school meals system. While EU law permits non-stun slaughter under a religious derogation, both Veterinary Ireland and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe have stated that the slaughter of animals without prior stunning is unacceptable under any circumstances. Many parents share this view. It is not beyond our wit to make it a condition of procurement that meat from animals slaughtered without prior stunning is excluded from mainstream school menus and provided only as a specifically requested exception. Sandra Adams, Baldoyle, Dublin 13 Social housing now part of the problem Madam Paul Kearns correctly identified the anomaly of Dublins population trends over 20 years (Route to M50 gridlock begins on Dublins under-populated streets, February 1), but fails to face the elephant standing between the Liffey and Royal Canal an over-concentration of social housing with no attempt to socially engineer a sustainable residential population mix. If it is deemed appropriate to socially engineer new developments to have 20pc social housing under Part V provisions, then it should also be appropriate to determine an area to have an over-provision of social housing. The north inner city needs a plantation of high earners (such as senior Dublin City Council staffers) possibly accommodated in state-developed accommodation paying prime market rents, the profits from which could be used to fund social housing in outer locations. Alex Wilsdon, Dublin Road, Co Kilkenny Railway line doesnt go nearly far enough Madam No doubt there are many and varied challenges coming down the tracks for the new chief executive of Iarnrod Eireann, Mary Considine (Investing in Rail is money well spent, Business, February 1). As she acknowledges, rail connections and housing are interlinked, so it was encouraging that the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Claremorris got the go-ahead recently. However, it would make social and economic sense to progress this much-needed service to include Ireland West Airport and on to Charlestown, Tubbercurry, Coolaney, Coollooney and into Sligo. This would have the added advantage of attracting investment to many unemployment blackspots, rebalancing the country for future generations. Tom Towey, Cloonacool, Co Sligo Provide the shingles jab free of charge Madam Thank you to Luke ONeill for his article last week (Could HRT and the shingles vaccine protect us from Alzheimers disease?, February 1). Following recent newspaper coverage, members of our Tuesday Active Retired Club sent 30 letters last week to each of our four local TDs and our senator in south Kildare, regarding the rollout of the shingles vaccine. In total, 150 letters were sent. We will continue to pursue this request until the vaccine is rolled out nationwide and provided free of charge. Mary Malcolm and Margaret Salmon, Co Kildare Why werent women quoted in ICE piece? Madam As a resident of the US state of Virginia, I read Colin Murphys column with interest (Dont mention the F-word: what MAGA voters think of ICE killings, February 1). The article set out to test claims of authoritarianism by seeking voices beyond liberal, cosmopolitan and media-centred perspectives, and it succeeds in presenting a range of often under-represented viewpoints. However, one absence was rather striking: not one womans perspective appeared. At a time when questions of state power, immigration enforcement, political violence, democratic norms and womens rights are being debated, this omission matters. Women experience and interpret political instability in distinct ways, particularly given their disproportionate exposure to care-giving responsibilities, healthcare and reproductive policy shifts and community-level impacts of fear and enforcement. If the purpose of the article was to examine how claims of authoritarianism resonate outside elite bubbles, then women are not some sort of peripheral constituency, but at the core of many of the issues. I hope future reporting on this question reflects a fuller range of experience. Fionnuala Quinn, Reston, Virginia Trumpism a threat by any definition Madam Fascism is a right-wing political ideology, the definition of which varies within certain dominant parameters, including glorification of a charismatic leader, authoritarianism, militarism, extreme nationalism often allied with a myth of palingenesis (the rebirth of, or return to, a largely or entirely mythical golden age), racism and the suppression of opposition. Whereas these preconditions for fascism fit Donald Trumps MAGA regime like a glove, Tim OHallorans four preconditions (Letters, February 1) seem to have been drawn up precisely because they dont. Either way, Trumpism represents a lethal threat to democracy and the future of our planet. Raymond Deane, Broadstone, Dublin 7 Context of the Gaza conflict is key factor Madam Jim Reynolds (Letters, February 1) suggested that in Gaza there is less of a war and more of a genocide. Hundreds of thousands of civilians died in the Allied bombing campaigns in World War II, including the atomic bombings of Japan, but the UK and the US were not accused of genocide. The Israeli military campaign in Gaza is a response to the invasion of Israel by Hamas, which orchestrated the highest number of murders of Jews in one day since the Holocaust. Further, the Israel Defence Forces stated that they have carried out recent attacks in retaliation for breaches by Hamas of the ceasefire. That is the context of the reported killing of 470 Palestinians since the ceasefire began. Ciaran Masterson, Cavan, Co Cavan Christian heritage cannot be silenced Madam Having read David Quinns very informative and well-crafted article (Saint Brigid would be horrified by her festival, February 1), I have to agree that any attempt to write Saint Brigid out of our history is disheartening, and unfair to our younger generation. We should be proud of Saint Brigid and nuns such as Sr Catherine McAuley, Sr Stan and Sr Consilio. Irish nuns here and abroad dedicated themselves to healthcare, education and social justice when the State was more than willing to let them take on this responsibility. Call the Midwife is a long-running TV series in which nuns are depicted as charitable, caring and dedicated women. It seems to me that no programme like it would be acceptable in modern Ireland. We cannot silence 1,600 years of Christian heritage. Let us be proud of this great saint and her inspiration, which has reverberated down the centuries. Pat Flahive, Athy, Co Kildare Feminists like Brigid still sparking fear Madam David Quinn tells us that not much is known about Saint Brigid, but that she almost certainly existed. He castigates the image of Brigid as a feminist icon and goes on to lambast modern feminists, telling us exactly what Brigid would have thought of us. I suspect that, if Brigid existed, as goddess or saint or both, she was well able to speak for herself, without interpretation by religiously conservative men. Thats why we modern feminists find her inspirational and empowering and some men find her, and us, so frightening. Bernie Linnane, Dromahair, Co Leitrim Buckley acting at the highest level Madam Unlike Brid Ewing (Letters, February 1), I enjoyed Hamnet immensely, to the point where I went to see it a second time. It is staggering to call it mediocre and to accuse Jessie Buckley of hamming it up. To me, this was acting of the highest level. Roll on the Oscars and good luck to Jessie it will take some very good acting to beat her. Donough OReilly, Kilmacud, Co Dublin The high street or main street if you prefer in Ireland has played host to quite the evolution over the past hundred-odd years - structurally, socially, and of course, commercially. Today, bricks-and-mortar stores continue to contest a difficult battle with online retailers, yet certain household names remain mainstay destinations for the average punter. Sudden and major change, however, is always lurking around the corner, and at least one big discount chain is hanging in the balance following the announcement that EuroGiant has been placed into liquidation after decades of trading. On the other end of the spectrum, Dunnes Stores has emerged as the most popular spot in the country for shoppers, topping the most recent supermarket league table, with Tesco nipping at its heels. Who is the octogenarian matriarch behind its success? And what does it all mean for you, the valued consumer? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnan Sheahan is joined by Irish Independent group business editor Donal ODonovan, and by Irish Independent features writer John Meagher, to go wild in the aisles with a comprehensive supermarket sweep. Located on the South Mall in the heart of Cork city centre, The Imperial hotel has been part of the citys social and cultural life for more than two centuries. Lorraine Gavigan has been appointed General Manager of The Imperial Hotel Cork, taking up the role at one of the citys most storied and recognisable landmarks. Located on the South Mall, the historic hotel has been part of the citys social and cultural life for more than two centuries, and Ms Gavigans appointment marks a new chapter for the Grande Dame of Cork hospitality Dating back to 1816, The Imperial has been part of Corks social and cultural fabric for more than two centuries, welcoming generations of guests and hosting writers, performers, political figures and visitors drawn to the citys character and energy. The hotel forms part of the Louis Fitzgerald Group, whose family ownership continues to shape its emphasis on warmth, welcome and thoughtful detail. Recent months, with Lorraine at the helm, have seen a renewed focus on investment and experience across the property, most notably the refurbishment and relaunch of Fitzgeralds Bar, now a central social space within the hotel. A Tipperary native, Gavigan brings more than two decades of experience across luxury, city and international hotel operations. She began her career at 18 on the inhouse management training programme at Dromoland Castle, before gaining experience overseas in Massachusetts and London, before returning home to be part of the opening team at Cork International Hotel. Entrepreneurial by nature, Gavigan later co-opened The Belfry Restaurant in Mullingar, before returning to senior food and beverage and operations roles at Clontarf Castle and the Mespil Hotel. She rejoined the Cork International Hotel as Food and Beverage Manager and was named Food and Beverage Manager of the Year by the Irish Hospitality Institute in 2018. Most recently, she served as Operations Manager and Deputy General Manager at Clayton Hotel Cork City, followed by a year in Germany as Hotel Manager at Clayton Hotel Dusseldorf, supporting Dalatas international operations. Ms Gavigan said she was proud to return to Cork to lead a family-owned hotel with such a strong sense of place and history. The Fitzgerald familys belief in the power of small details, from a warm welcome at the front door to the atmosphere created through ongoing investment and seasonal initiatives, closely aligns with my own approach to hospitality. She said her focus will be on continuous improvement while remaining true to the buildings heritage, strengthening relationships with guests and ensuring The Imperial continues to feel timeless and distinctly Cork. An electric scooter came out of nowhere and nearly crashed into our six-year-old south Dublin parents call for safety around school Staff and parents at St Cillians National School have been campainging for safety measures 'If a child gets killed, it's too late' Azmia Riaz Mon 9 Feb 2026 at 11:57 Parents and staff at a Dublin school are worried that pupils could be faced with severe accidents or even death in the absence of basic safety measures in the area. Local authorities are particularly at risk of cyber security incidents, meeting hears Cyber security poses a major and growing threat to local authorities, with elected councillors identified as highvalue targets for attackers, Louth County Council has warned. The risks were outlined at a recent meeting of Ardee Municipal District, where Helen Divilly, Head of Information Systems at Louth County Council, briefed councillors on the increasingly complex cyber threat landscape facing the public sector. It is a critical issue for every public organisation, but especially for public sector bodies, Ms Divilly said, warning that cyber attacks are increasing at global, national and local level. Local authorities such as Louth County Council are particularly vulnerable, she explained, because they hold large volumes of personal and sensitive data, which makes us prime targets. Councillors were told that many cyber attacks do not involve breaking directly into IT systems, but instead rely on targeting individuals through social engineering and phishing techniques. The meeting heard that significant cyber security incidents have already occurred within public bodies, including a reported attack on the Office of the Ombudsman in December 2025 and a previous incident involving Meath County Council. Because of their public profile and access to information, elected members are often singled out by attackers, Ms Divilly said. Elected members are highvalue targets, she explained, adding that councillors digital identities, email accounts and councilissued devices such as phones and laptops can be attractive entry points for attackers. Protecting councillors devices is not just about safeguarding individuals, she said, but is also essential to protecting public services and maintaining public trust. The cyber threat environment in Ireland is becoming increasingly challenging, councillors were told, with risks amplified by Ireland holding the EU Presidency in 2026. This assessment has been supported by the National Cyber Security Centre, which has noted an increase in attempted attacks and targeting of organisations across the country. We expect increased threat from hostile statesponsored actors, with potential threats to critical infrastructure, including data centres and transatlantic cables, Ms Divilly said. Louth County Council is regularly dealing with cyber security threats, the meeting heard, often arising from compromised thirdparty email accounts. In many cases, staff receive an email from someone pretending to be their Director of Service, and they are more likely to respond when they believe the message is coming from someone senior, she explained. She added that there have also been multiple incidents where attackers have impersonated elected members in communications with other councillors. Ms Divilly said such threats are dealt with on a daily and weekly basis, and that vigilance among staff and councillors is key to preventing incidents from escalating. In every single case, it is down to the vigilance of a staff member or a local councillor who reports their suspicions to the IT team, she said. This helps to contain a threat so it doesnt become a cyber security incident. She warned that councillors reputations can also be placed at risk through impersonation and fraud, and confirmed that a range of cyber security training has now been rolled out for elected members to help them identify and respond to threats. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme News After six years and two trials, I found out my abuser had been freed from jail via Instagram According to recent research, less than 5pc of adults who experienced sexual violence reported the matter to gardai. Victim support and advocacy groups indicate that in the case of more than 70pc of reported sexual offences remain undetected, A transition year student in New Ross has achieved a remarkable first place in the nationwide #ThinkLanguages Individual Poster Competition, which is part of Irelands annual celebration of languages and cultures for TY students. The national #ThinkLanguages Week is a student-led festival organised by Languages Connect that encourages Transition Year pupils to explore the value of language learning beyond the classroom. Thousands of TY students nationwide take part in inspirational talks, interactive workshops, a live national quiz and creative competitions, all designed to celebrate linguistic diversity and broaden cultural awareness among young people. That is exactly what young student, Jewel Belleno, from Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School has embraced and has been acknowledged for. As part of #ThinkLanguages, TY students are invited to enter competitions that highlight their creativity and enthusiasm for languages. Jewels poster was selected as the national winner from hundreds of entries, impressing judges with its originality, design and thoughtful representation of language and culture. Jewels achievement brings national recognition to both her personal talent and to the whole school community, said school Principal, Finbar Laffan. Jewel recently travelled to Dublin to attend a special awards ceremony at the Department of Education, where she received her prize and was publicly recognised for her outstanding achievement. The occasion marked a memorable day for Jewel, her family and her school, celebrating her hard work and exceptional success at national level. Jewels success reflects her passion for languages and her commitment throughout the year. Her artwork not only captures the spirit of #ThinkLanguages Week but also showcases the benefits of language learning in a globalised world from deepening cultural understanding to enhancing future educational and career opportunities, he continued. We are incredibly proud of Jewels achievement. Her creativity and dedication are clear to see and this national success highlights the value of initiatives like #ThinkLanguages in inspiring young people to engage with languages and cultures, Mr Laffan concluded. A number of road traffic matters including refusal to provide samples and dangerous driving offences were before Gorey District Court recently with Judge John Cheatle presiding. Disqualification for refusal to provide sample Two men received lengthy driving disqualifications after refusing to provide samples to Gardai. A 19-year-old Wicklow man was disqualified from driving for four years and fined 400 in connection with a refusal to provide a blood sample on July 28 2025. Garda Downes gave evidence that on the day in question he observed a vehicle travelling at speed, before it turned left without indicating. Garda Downes subsequently stopped the vehicle being driven by Ryan Austin (19) of Croneyhorn, Carnew, Wicklow, who refused to provide an oral sample at the roadside. Austin was arrested and conveyed to the garda station where he further refused to provide a blood sample. Counsel for the accused informed the court that Austin had left school after 5th year and has been working ever since. He highlighted that the defendant drives as part of his employment and also operates machinery on his grandfathers farm that he would require his licence for. Judge Cheatle imposed a four year disqualification and a 300 fine giving four months to pay. In similar circumstances, Dylan Wall (29) of Redshire Road, Kildavin Lower, Murrintown, Wexford, was before the court in connection with an offence of refusal to provide a sample on March 6 2025. Garda Downes informed the court that on the day in question he observed the vehicle being driven by Wall turn off the road at The Paddocks, Gorey, without indicating. Once stopped, Wall provided Garda Downes with a learners permit and was not accompanied by a qualified driver. A roadside oral fluid test was carried out which returned a positive result for the presence of cocaine. Wall was arrested and taken to the garda station where he refused to give a blood sample stating that he did not like needles. Judge Cheatle imposed a four year driving disqualification and a 400 fined allowing six months to pay. Prison sentence for dangerous driving A Gorey man received a 10 month prison sentence in connection with a series of dangerous driving charges that occurred from the M11 throughout Gorey. Garda Cahill informed the court that on October 21 2024 he was conducting a speed check on the M11 when he received an ANPR alert indicating a vehicle had no tax, insurance, or NCT. Garda Cahill pursued the vehicle reaching speeds of 200kmh to catch up to the black Ford Focus being driven by Michael Gavin (31) of Newbridge, Camolin, Gorey. The garda outlined to the court how the accused committed a series of dangerous driving manoeuvers including overtaking a vehicle on the right hand side, and swerving across two lanes of traffic. The car driven by Gavin took the exit towards Gorey where he collided into the back of another car at the Raheengurren roundabout. Gavin did not remain at the scene and continued to Knockduff where the vehicle turned across the road into a farmland and swerved out of control. Gavin then exited the car and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by members of An Garda Siochana. The defendant was arrested and conveyed to the garda station where he was drug tested which returned negative results. Gardai informed the court Gavin has 61 previous convictions with the majority being for road traffic offences and was currently serving a 15-year disqualification at the time. He had also previously served a prison sentence at the Midlands for dangerous driving offences. Lana Doherty, solicitor for the accused, told the court her client had experienced a turbulent childhood and had been placed in care after he lost both parents in tragic circumstances. Ms Doherty stated that at the time of the incident her client was driving without insurance and without a licence due to the disqualification and simply panicked. The solicitor asked the court to consider ordering a probation report, however Judge Cheatle said the in-car Garda footage played was one of the worst Ive seen. The Judge imposed a 10-month prison sentence and a ten-year driving disqualification along with a further five month sentence suspended for two years. Gavin opted to appeal the decision. The matter will be heard before the next sittings of district court appeals at Wexford circuit court. Prison sentence back dated for road traffic offences A man entered pleas of guilty to various road traffic offences, including no insurance, no licence, and careless driving on August 26 2023, no insurance and no left front light on April 8 2025, and no insurance, no licence, no NCT, failure to display disc, no seatbelt, and child passenger not wearing a seatbelt on May 28 2025. Lana Doherty, solicitor for Ion Graure (40) of 33 Drumgold Villas, Enniscorthy, Wexford, informed the court that Graure is a Romanian national who had previously been arrested on foot of a European arrest warrant. This matter was recently settled before the High Court with the accused consenting to extradition. Ms Doherty outlined that the accused will serve a sentence of two years and three months in Romania but this could not proceed until district court matters were finalised. The solicitor asked the court to backdate any sentence imposed so that Graure may be sent to Romania to serve his sentence rather than serving a sentence in Ireland prior to this. Judge Cheatle imposed a four month sentence which he backdated to September 18 2025, and a further four month sentence suspended for two years along with a six year driving ban. Funded by the Courts Reporting scheme. A Wicklow artist has brought together a distinguished group of Irish creatives for her first outing as a curator, with an exhibition in New York that connects Irish artists abroad to their origins. Lisa McCleary grew up in Greystones, where her early love of art was nurtured during her school years at Holy Child, Killiney. Her creative education continued at the Sallynoggin College of Further Education Art Portfolio Course in County Dublin, which laid the foundation for her formal artistic training. In 2011, following her mothers move to Australia, Lisa relocated to Sydney and was accepted into the University of New South Wales Art & Design, where she completed a Bachelor of Fine Art (Honours). Seeking new horizons, Lisa moved to New York to pursue a Master of Fine Arts at Parsons, The New School, which she completed in 2018 a turning point she described as a dream to experience life as an artist in New York. In 2020, Lisa was included in The UK Sunday Times 30 under 30: Irelands most promising artists. She went on to exhibit internationally, with solo exhibitions in Sydney, Mexico, and New York City and was selected to exhibit her work at the London Art Biennale and the Royal Hibernian Academys 193rd Summer Annual in Dublin, in 2023. That same year, she finally got to return to her hometown for her first solo Irish exhibition, titled Ill Be in Touch an exploration into the previous ground-breaking four years. Reflecting on her journey at the time, she told the Irish Echo: I never could have imagined as a young child painting at my art desk in my home in Greystones that I would one day have my own solo exhibition in New York City New York is a special place for the creatively inclined. There is an overabundance of opportunities here Artists in New York have a great sense of community; we all work together and support one another. This lived experience of creative migration meant Lisa was perfectly placed to curate Tether, which runs at New Yorks Gallery MC from February 17 to February 23, an exhibition she described as a personal triumph. Through the work of six artists, including Lisas, the exhibition presents Irishness as an evolving, lived experience shaped by displacement, community, and artistic reinvention, and featured in Art In New York City. The exhibition also features the work of George Bolster, Helen OLeary, Martin Mullin, Mike Dowley, and is united by the inclusion of a work by the late Brian ODoherty, the Irish-American art critic, writer and artist, who lived in New York for over 50 years, serving as an art critic for The New York Times and NBC, as well as an editor for Art in America. On curating the exhibition, Lisa said: Together, the works in Tether reveal Irish identity as dynamic and unresolved, stretched across geographies, shaped by migration, and continually rewritten through making. The exhibition offers a space for reflection on how we remain connected to what formed us, even as we move through new worlds, carrying those ties quietly within us. Wicklow participants in the Goal Mile raised 13,700 in 2025 for the aid agencys lifesaving humanitarian programmes around the world. Wicklow Goal Mile events were held over Christmas Day, St Stephens Day and New Years Day, taking place in Wicklow town, Bray, Blessington, Askanagap, Hollywood, Lacken, Greystones, Tinahely and Tinahely. Nationally, a record 800,000 was raised towards Goals ongoing efforts in delivering life-saving aid to some of the worlds most fragile communities including those in Gaza, Sudan, Ethiopia, Syria and beyond. Thanking all the Wicklow efforts, Goal CEO Jennifer Farrelly said: Every year at Goal, we are proud to deliver an amazing festive event in the form of the Goal Mile, and 2025 was certainly no different. Thanks to you, the Goal Mile organisers and participants who stepped up in Co. Wicklow and beyond, we were able to raise a record fundraising total of 800,000. We are also extremely grateful for our partners at AIB, back for their fifth year as Goal Mile sponsors, who once again helped us bring the initiative into communities across Ireland. Having experienced the Goal Mile in my own locality, I was taken by the camaraderie and community spirit that was on display, and the colour that was added by all of the lovely festive outfits that people wore for the occasion." At every Goal Mile location, people give up their own time to help Goal raise funds for millions of others caught up in climate and conflict emergencies. On behalf of all my colleagues at Goal, we say a massive thank you. Actress Catherine O'Hara died from a pulmonary embolism with cancer as the underlying cause, it has been revealed. Tributes have poured in for the Home Alone star, who died on January 30 at the age of 71. A Los Angeles County death certificate issued on Monday listed the embolism as the immediate cause of her death at a hospital in Santa Monica, California. Rectal cancer was given as the long-term cause of her death, with the oncologist who signed off the certificate indicating that he had been treating her since March last year. The Canadian-American actress was also known for her roles in the Beetlejuice films and TV comedy Schitt's Creek, for which she won an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Actors including Meryl Streep, Macaulay Culkin, Michael Keaton and Seth Rogen all paid tribute to O'Hara in the days following her death. Eugene Levy, her on-screen husband in the US sitcom, said he was struggling for words to describe the loss of the actress. In a statement, Levy said: "Words seem inadequate to express the loss I feel today. I had the honour of knowing and working with the great Catherine O'Hara for over 50 years." He added that he "cherished our working relationship, but most of all our friendship". Alec Baldwin, who starred with her in Beetlejuice, described O'Hara as "one of the greatest comic talents in the movie business" who possessed "a quality that was all her own". A more recent role saw O'Hara starring in the second season of The Last Of Us, alongside Pedro Pascal, who paid tribute to her, saying: "Oh, genius to be near you. Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always." A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the lungs, and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly, according to the NHS. Lai jailed for 20 years in high-profile national security caseU.S and UK have called for Lai to be freedLai's family voice fear for his health, city's rule of lawPolice say concern over Lai's health exaggeratedSentence most serious yet under HK national security laws Retired Chinese cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, left, and Jimmy Lais wife Teresa Lai arrive at the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) Police officers stand guard outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) Jimmy Lai leaves the Hong Kongs Court of Final Appeal in Hong Kong in February 2021 (AP) Hong Kong's most vocal China critic, media tycoon Jimmy Lai, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in jail, ending the city's biggest national security case which drew international concern about the city's freedoms and autonomy. Lai's sentence on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one for publishing seditious materials ends a legal saga that has spanned nearly five years. Lai, founder of the feisty but shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was first arrested in August 2020 and was convicted last year. His 20-year sentence was within the harshest penalty "band" for offences of a "grave nature" and is the most severe punishment meted out yet, the three national security judges said. Lai's sentence was enhanced by the fact that he was the "mastermind" and driving force behind "persistent" foreign collusion conspiracies, the judges said. They cited prosecution evidence that the conspiracies had sought sanctions, blockades and other hostile acts from the U.S. and other countries while involving a web of individuals including Apple Daily staff, activists and foreigners. Besides Lai, six former senior Apple Daily staffers, an activist and a paralegal were sentenced to jail terms ranging between six and 10 years. "In the present case, Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence," the judges said. "As regards the others, it is difficult to distinguish their relative culpability." Police officers stand guard outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) The 78-year-old, a British citizen, has denied all the charges against him, saying in court he is a "political prisoner" facing persecution from Beijing. Lai's plight has been criticised by global leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, spotlighting a years-long national security crackdown in the China-ruled Asian financial hub, following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Those concerns reflected in part Lai's long-standing international profile as a pro-democracy critic of China's Communist Party leadership and his extensive political connections, particularly among U.S. Republicans - ties that prosecutors cited during the case. At the height of the protests in July 2019, Lai met then-U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington. Beijing in 2020 imposed the national security law upon Hong Kong, saying it was necessary to stabilise the city after months of sometimes violent unrest. Life in prison? The case has drawn calls for Lai, who friends and supporters say is in frail health with diabetes and high blood pressure, to be freed. Retired Chinese cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, left, and Jimmy Lais wife Teresa Lai arrive at the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) Lai's son, Sebastien Lai, said from outside Hong Kong that the sentence "is devastating for our family and life-threatening for my father," marking the "total destruction" of the Hong Kong legal system. "After more than five years of relentlessly persecuting my father, it is time for China to do the right thing and release him before it is too late." Jimmy Lai, who is also one of Hong Kong's most prominent Roman Catholics, arrived at the court on Monday in a white jacket, with hands held together in a praying gesture as he smiled and waved at supporters. "The harsh 20-year sentence against 78-year-old Jimmy Lai is effectively a death sentence," said Elaine Pearson, Asia director of Human Rights Watch. "A sentence of this magnitude is both cruel and profoundly unjust." Hong Kong police swiftly played down concerns about Lai's health. Chief Superintendent Steve Li of the force's national security department said Lai's health concerns had been "exaggerated" and added that the tycoon deserved his sentence. The judges said they were not inclined to give Lai any deduction for his medical condition, age and solitary confinement but acknowledged he would face a "more burdensome" time than other inmates. They cut a month off the sedition sentence and one year each for the collusion charges. Beijing and Hong Kong officials have said that Lai has received a fair trial and all are treated equally under a national security law that they say has been vital to restoring order to the city. Dozens of Lai's supporters queued for several days to secure a spot in the courtroom, with scores of police officers, sniffer dogs and police vehicles - including an armoured truck and a bomb disposal van - deployed around the area. "I feel that Mr. Lai is the conscience of Hong Kong," said a man named Sum, 64, who was in the queue. Starmer raised the case of Lai, who holds British citizenship, during a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping last month in Beijing, according to people briefed on the discussions, and called for his release. Trump too, raised Lai's case with Xi during a meeting in October. Several Western diplomats told Reuters that negotiations to free Lai would likely begin in earnest now that he has been sentenced. His lawyer, Robert Pang, said he could not comment when asked whether Lai would appeal, saying he has 28 days to do so. The messages came after the wealthy financiers 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor allegedly shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein, newly released emails reveal. Emails released by the US Department of Justice earlier this month appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special advisor, Amir Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and trade talks. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The messages come after Epsteins 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Andrew previously told BBCs Newsnight in 2019 he had cut off contact with the convicted paedophile in December 2010 during a visit to New York. On February 9 2011, Andrew told Epstein he had visited a private equity firm the week before and thought of you as the financier, who was reportedly looking for somewhere for money to go. Official government guidance underscores that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, the guidance read. This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply. The former duke served as the UKs special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. US Department of Justice (left-right) of the Duke of York, Virginia Giuffre, and Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell (US Department of Justice/PA) Vince Cable, business secretary at the time, told the BBC of the emails: I was unaware of Andrew sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before, this is the first Ive heard of it. The former duke features a number of times in the latest release of documents, including images apparently showing him crouch over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epsteins New York mansion. In 2022, the former duke paid millions of pounds to Virginia Giuffre, his main accuser, despite claiming never to have met her. The King later stripped him of his titles following the posthumous release of a book by Ms Giuffre, who alleges she was trafficked by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, at the age of 17. The Press Association understands that Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge and relocated to Norfolk to a property on the Kings Sandringham estate earlier this month, reported by the Sun to be Wood Farm Cottage, where he will stay temporarily. It is understood the former dukes new home of Marsh Farm is not yet fully ready, but he is expected to move in by the start of April. It was known the former prince would be moving out of Royal Lodge in the new year and the development is not thought to be linked to the latest revelations in the Epstein papers. Andrew still has the lease for his Windsor property until October, but it is understood he has made the substantive part of his move to his new home. However, it may take some weeks to complete and the former prince is likely to be seen at Royal Lodge on occasion. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Cork-born chief of staff was PMs closest adviser and his departure leaves Labour leader exposed Keir Starmers survival as UK prime minister is hanging by a thread after the resignation of Morgan McSweeney, his Cork-born chief of staff. The prime ministers right-hand man quit yesterday afternoon after a growing backlash over his role in the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UKs ambassador to the US. Mr McSweeney insisted Mr Mandelson was the best man for the job in Washington despite being warned twice by civil servants about the peers ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Resigning hours after a cabinet minister had backed him to stay on, Mr McSweeney said: In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside. The departure is a major blow for Mr Starmer, depriving him of his closest political aide and the person most responsible for guiding Labour to a landslide in 2024. It leaves the prime minister exposed, with enemies demanding that he quit too. It is understood the decision was made by mutual consent and that both Mr McSweeney and Mr Starmer felt it was the right time. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside Downing Street sources insisted the priorities of the government had not changed. Mr Starmer is expected to address the UK as soon as today to address how he will respond to issues raised by the Mandelson scandal. In a response that failed to mention the scandal, Mr Starmer credited Mr McSweeneys dedication, loyalty and leadership for Labours 2024 general election win, and expressed a debt of gratitude. Mr Mandelson was appointed despite Downing Street knowing about his ongoing friendship with Epstein even after the paedophile was convicted of child sex crimes. Fresh revelations about the connections between the two men have plunged Mr Starmer into the worst crisis of his premiership. Before the resignation, work and pensions secretary Pat McFadden, whose parents are from Donegal, voiced his support for Mr McSweeney. Mr McSweeneys resignation has prompted calls from mutinous Labour MPs for Mr Starmer to follow, after more than a year and a half of his political authority draining away. This will lead to questions about the prime ministers own future and whether his leadership can survive the coming week. UK prime minister Keir Starmer. Photo: PA In a statement given to journalists yesterday, Mr McSweeney said: After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the government. The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. When asked, I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside. This has not been an easy decision. Much has been written and said about me over the years but my motivations have always been simple: I have worked every day to elect and support a government that puts the lives of ordinary people first and leads us to a better future for our great country. The 48-year-old Irishman added that he wanted to share two further reflections on his resignation. Firstly, and most importantly, we must remember the women and girls whose lives were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein and whose voices went unheard for far too long, he wrote. Secondly, while I did not oversee the due diligence and vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled. This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future. The PM needs to reflect carefully on his judgment Yesterday afternoon, some Labour MPs insisted that Mr Starmer should quit despite Mr McSweeneys departure appearing to offer the prime minister a final throw of the dice. Brian Leishman, the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, said: There must be a change in political direction and that comes from the very top. So the prime minister must look at his own position and question whether he should follow McSweeneys lead one last time, and resign for the good of the country and the Labour Party. Jon Trickett, the MP for Normanton and Hemsworth, said: I believe Morgan McSweeney would inevitably have to resign. But the buck stops at the top, and the PM needs to reflect carefully on his judgment about appointing both Mandelson and McSweeney. A third Labour MP, speaking anonymously, said Mr Starmer was now like a wounded animal and would struggle on until the local elections. The Rest Is History intro, featuring the hosts impression of late US president Jimmy Carter, prompted laughter Stephen Fry has been a guest on the podcast. Photo: PA A Supreme Court proceeding in the UK was interrupted by a popular history podcast playing from a judges phone. The judge, Michael Briggs, was forced to glance down at his phone and apologise after the introduction to The Rest Is History podcast played through the courtroom speaker system, in an incident captured on video. As a legal professional addressed the bench, the voice of podcast co-host Tom Holland could be heard impersonating late US president Jimmy Carter. I sort of feel I should talk over this moment, the legal worker said. The judge then looked at his phone before saying: I do apologise, I do apologise. He added: The Rest Is History. It was switched to silent. Do carry on. This triggered laughter inside the court. The clip was then shared by The Rest Is Historys social media team, in a post captioned: What was Jimmy Carter doing in the Supreme Court last week? The Rest Is History, hosted by Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, delves into some of the biggest moments in history, while occasionally featuring Hollands satirical impressions of figures from the past. Stephen Fry has been a guest on the podcast. Photo: PA It was launched in 2020 when Gary Linekers podcast company, Goalhanger, approached Holland to create a history-themed podcast. The show has now amassed more than 20 million monthly downloads over more than 800 episodes. Guests who have made appearances on the show include Stephen Fry, Ian Kershaw, Michael Wood and Mary Beard. In an interview last year, Holland said that about half the listenership of the twice-weekly podcast was under 35. He argued that was partly because the podcast did not moralise. Holland said: Quite a lot of public history is moralistic in a way that I think bleeds the interest out of the subject. Both Dominic and I feel quite strongly that history doesnt exist to teach us moral lessons, and we look for the strong vein of comedy in history, although its often unbelievably dark. ( Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd) Five people have been arrested after a French magistrate and her mother were kidnapped and held captive for 30 hours in the latest cryptocurrency ransom plot to rock France. At about 3am on Thursday, masked kidnappers broke into the 35-year-old magistrates home in Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux, a small commune near Grenoble in south-eastern France. The victims partner, who was not home at the time, works at a start-up specialising in cryptocurrency. The kidnappers forced the woman and her 67-year-old mother, who was staying there, into the boot of a car. The pair were driven about 100km to Bourg-les-Valence, where they were tied up and held captive in a garage. While up to 160 police were searching for the victims, the women managed to free themselves from their restraints and caught the attention of a passer-by about 8am on Friday by banging on the garage door and screaming for help. I heard them banging, banging, screaming, I heard help, I opened the garage gate and there are two women who came out, an unnamed witness who rescued the women, told France Inter. According to Thierry Dran, the public prosecutor in Lyon, the magistrates partner received a ransom demand and threats that the kidnappers would mutilate the women later that morning. The newspaper Le Figaro reported that the criminals demanded 1.6m in cryptocurrency. Mr Dran said the magistrate suffered several wounds to the head. The victims were taken to the hospital where they were also treated for shock. No ransom was paid. The five suspects, who are aged 18-20 and include a woman, were arrested in the suburbs of Lyon and around Chambery on Saturday and yesterday and were allegedly planning to flee to Spain. Last weeks kidnapping is the third crypto-related extortion attempt in the region since the beginning of the year. Last month, a retired couple in their 70s, whose son works in the cryptocurrency sector, were kidnapped from their home in Haute-Savoie and held for an 8m ransom. The kidnappers sent videos of the couple being physically abused. Two days later they were found 250km away in the Drome. They were hospitalised for severe injuries and shock. Also in January, a 74-year-old man was also abducted from his home in Voiron, Isere, and held hostage while kidnappers demanded a ransom of 3m from the victims son. French crypto boss David Balland, was taken from his home last January in the department of Cher. Co-founder of the crypto firm Ledger, the company was valued at more than 846bn at the time. Kidnappers cut off his finger and demanded 10m in ransom money. He was rescued by French police and four suspects were arrested. Trump told police chief 'everyone' knew about Epstein, FBI document says A newly uncovered FBI interview raised new questions about US president Donald Trump's assertion he knew nothing about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, while Trump's commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, has faced a barrage of questions from lawmakers about his own ties to the financier. The day's developments underscored how the fallout from the Epstein scandal remains a major political headache for the Trump administration, weeks after the Justice Department released millions of Epstein-related files to comply with a bipartisan bill. The files have also created crises abroad after revealing new details of Epstein's ties to prominent people in politics, finance, business and academia. In July 2006, as Epstein's first sex crime charges became public, the police chief in Palm Beach, Florida, received a call from Trump, according to the summary of a 2019 FBI interview with the police chief that was among the files. The police chief, Michael Reiter, cited Trump as having told him: "Thank goodness you're stopping him, everyone has known he's been doing this." Trump is alleged to have told Reiter that people in New York knew about Epstein and advised him that Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's associate, was "evil," according to the document. Trump is also alleged to have said he had once been around Epstein when teenagers were present and that he "got the hell out of there". Reiter, who retired in 2009, confirmed the details of the FBI interview to the Miami Herald, which first reported its existence. Asked about the reported conversation, the Justice Department said, "We are not aware of any corroborating evidence that the president contacted law enforcement 20 years ago." Trump was friends with Epstein for years, but they had a falling out before Epstein's first arrest, Trump has said. The president has repeatedly said he was unaware of Epstein's crimes. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday that Trump has been "honest and transparent" about ending his association with Epstein. "It was a phone call that may or may not have happened in 2006," she said. "I don't know the answer to that question." Separately on Tuesday, Lutnick sought to distance himself from Epstein while testifying at a Senate hearing, alleging he "barely had anything to do with" him. The Justice Department files included emails that showed Lutnick appears to have visited Epstein's private Caribbean island for lunch in 2012, seven years after he claimed to have cut off all ties. The revelations have prompted calls from both Republicans and Democrats for him to resign. Lutnick told senators that the two men had met only three times over 14 years and that the lunch, which included his family, occurred simply because he was on a boat near the island. "I know and my wife knows that I have done absolutely nothing wrong in any possible regard," Lutnick said at the hearing. But the emails contradicted Lutnick's previous statements that he vowed in 2005 never to see Epstein again, after Epstein, his neighbor at the time, showed Lutnick a massage table at his townhouse and made a sexually suggestive comment. Republican Representative Tom Massie told CNN on Sunday that Lutnick should "make life easier on the president, frankly, and just resign." Leavitt told reporters at the White House on Tuesday that Trump "fully supports" Lutnick. Congressional Democrats also introduced legislation on Tuesday intended to make it easier for adult victims of sex trafficking to sue their abusers, even many years later. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez announced the bill alongside Epstein victims and Virginia Giuffre's family. The proposal Virginia's Law is named after Giuffre, one of Epstein's most prominent accusers, who died by suicide last year. Epstein was found dead in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. While officially ruled a suicide, his death has prompted years of conspiracy theories, including some that Trump himself amplified to his supporters during his 2024 presidential campaign. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in helping Epstein abuse teenage girls, sat for a deposition before the U.S. House's oversight committee on Monday but refused to answer any questions. Reuters A ransom note from the purported kidnappers of American TV host Savannah Guthries mother has demanded $6m (5.07m) and threatens Nancy Guthries life if a deadline isnt met by 5pm Arizona time today (about midnight Irish time). The note was sent last week to CNN affiliate KGUN, which is based in Tucson, Arizona, where the 84-year-old was last seen a week ago. Law enforcement has not confirmed the ransom amount referenced in the letter, KGUN wrote on X. KGUN and other outlets have previously reported receiving alleged ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin to free Nancy Guthrie. In a video from Savannah Guthrie, who presents the NBC News show Today, and her siblings released on Saturday, the broadcaster addressed her mothers kidnappers, saying the family had received your message and will pay. We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her, Ms Guthrie said in the clip. Our mom is our heart and our home, she added. Shes 84 years old. Her health, her heart, is fragile. She lives in constant pain. She is without any medicine. She needs it to survive, and she needs it not to suffer. Heith Janke, the FBIs Phoenix special agent in charge, said at a press conference last week that a prior ransom note set two deadlines: last Thursday and today. The FBI has appealed for information and offered a reward of up to $50,000 for any details that could lead to the recovery of Nancy or arrest of anyone involved in her disappearance. Since then, US media outlet TMZ received a ransom note from the alleged captor. However, police have still not been able to verify whether the notes are real. US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said yesterday that the purported kidnappers appeared very sophisticated about sending messages while using digital tools to conceal their identity. I really believe theres a backdoor communication going on here that we dont know about, she added. The FBI and the Pima County Sheriffs Department are investigating the case and have not publicly named any suspects. Savannah Guthrie and her mother Nancy Guthrie in 2019. Photo: AP News in 90 seconds - Tuesday, February 10 Investigators searched Savannah Guthries sister Annies home late on Saturday night for evidence, after a previous search at the location. We have some clues that I think are very strong, and I think we could have some answers coming up fairly soon, President Trump said of the case on Friday. We have some things I think that will maybe come out reasonably soon from DOJ or FBI or whoever. Nancy Guthrie was last seen the evening of January 31, after family members dined with her, dropped her home, and played games together. The following day, family learned she hadnt attended church and eventually reported her missing. Image credit : Netflix | Netflix framed this as digitally anonymized content meant to protect identities What Does Digitally Anonymized Even Mean? Image credit : Netflix | Traditionally, anonymization was pretty straightforward From Blurs to AI Faces : Anonymization Got a Glow-Up Image credit : Netflix | At its simplest, digital anonymization is about removing or altering identifying details so a person cant be recognised Enter: The Lucy Letby Documentary Backlash Why People Are So Uncomfortable With It Privacy vs. Presence: The Core Tension Why This Debate Goes Beyond One Documentary Healthcare, where patient data must be protected AI training, where models shouldnt memorise real people Research and policy, where privacy laws like GDPR treat anonymized data differently So, Whats the Takeaway? Digitally anonymized used to be one of those boring phrases buried in privacy policies, something you scrolled past without thinking twice. Now? Its everywhere. From AI datasets to true-crime documentaries, the term has officially entered the group chat, and not everyone is comfortable with how its being used.So what does digitally anonymized actually mean? And why did a Netflix documentary about Lucy Letby spark such intense backlash over it?Lets break it down.At its simplest, digital anonymization is about removing or altering identifying details so a person cant be recognised, directly or indirectly. That could mean deleting names and phone numbers from a dataset, blurring faces in videos, or distorting voices in audio recordings.The goal is privacy without erasure. You still want the data, the story, or the experience to exist, just without exposing real people to harm, harassment, or unwanted attention.In data and tech spaces, anonymization allows companies and researchers to analyse trends without tying information back to specific individuals. In the media, it lets people speak about sensitive or traumatic experiences without putting their identities on blast.In theory, its a win-win. In practice? Its complicated.Traditionally, anonymization was pretty straightforward: pixelated faces, shadowy silhouettes, robotic voice filters. Viewers understood the code instantly, this person is real, but protected.Now, tech has upgraded the playbook. AI tools can generate realistic digital faces and voices that replace the original person while keeping expressions, tone, and emotional cues intact. This is often described as advanced or digital anonymization.Sounds smart, right? Until it feels off.Netflixs documentary The Investigation of Lucy Letby, which revisits the UK nurse convicted of murdering seven infants, became a flashpoint in this debate.Instead of blurring or obscuring interviewees, the documentary used AI-generated faces and altered voices for certain contributors, including a bereaved parent and someone close to Letby. Netflix framed this as digitally anonymized content meant to protect identities while preserving emotional impact. But viewers were not buying it.Social media reactions ranged from this is uncanny and creepy to why does this feel like a Black Mirror episode? Many felt the AI faces were distracting, unsettling, and deeply inappropriate for a story involving real deaths and grief.Rather than fading into the background, the anonymization became the loudest thing in the room.First, trust took a hit. True-crime documentaries rely heavily on authenticity. When viewers realise theyre looking at a digitally constructed face, it raises questions: How much of this is real? What am I actually watching?Second, theres the uncanny valley problem. AI faces that look almost human but not quite can trigger discomfort, especially when paired with emotional testimonies. For many viewers, it felt disrespectful, even exploitative, to present grief through a synthetic face.Third, theres confusion around consent and transparency. While the intent may have been to protect interviewees, audiences wanted clearer disclosure and more traditional methods, ones they instinctively understand and trust.Basically: the tech moved faster than cultural comfort.This is where things get tricky. Supporters argue that digital anonymization lets people share their stories safely without flattening emotion. Critics say it risks doing the opposite, replacing real human presence with something artificial that distances viewers from the truth.Its the classic modern dilemma: just because we can, does that mean we should?Outside of Netflix and true crime, digital anonymization is a big deal in:In these spaces, anonymization enables innovation without violating rights. But the Lucy Letby backlash shows that when anonymization becomes visible, especially through AI, people expect stronger ethical guardrails.Digitally anonymized isnt just a technical term anymore, its a cultural fault line. People care deeply about privacy and authenticity, and they dont want one sacrificed for the other.As AI tools become more common in storytelling, creators will have to figure out not just whats technologically possible, but what feels emotionally right. Because when it comes to real trauma and real people, vibes matter, and audiences will call it out when something feels off. Once Upon a Time, 32nd Avenue Was the Vibe Image credit : @gurgaon_waala/ IG | Originally called 32nd Milestone, the space was rebranded as 32nd Avenue When the Rent Stopped Hitting The Arrest That Changed Everything Image credit : @travel_with_me218/ IG | The situation blew up when the Gurugram Polices Economic Offences Wing (EOW) arrested Dhruv Dutt Sharma Yes, the same space. Multiple times. Not Just a Scam, Also a Rulebook Mess Why People Are Freaking Out About a Shutdown Image credit : Renie/ Pinterest | Local authorities had flagged building code violations at the property So, Is 32nd Avenue Over? For years, 32nd Avenue in Sector 15, Gurgaon wasnt just a commercial complex, it was the hangout. Think European streetscape energy, fairy lights, cafes, buzzy restaurants, creative offices, and constant footfall. It became Gurgaons aesthetic hub, the place for first dates, weekend brunches, pop-ups, and soft-launch birthday dinners. If you lived in NCR, chances are youve been there, or posted from there.Originally called 32nd Milestone, the space was rebranded as 32nd Avenue and positioned as a premium mixed-use development. It promised investors assured rental returns, long-term leases, and big-brand tenants. For a while, everything looked picture-perfect.Behind the fairy lights, things started going sideways. Investors began complaining that assured rental payments were delayed, or had stopped entirely. Months passed without payouts, and attempts to reach the management reportedly went unanswered. Protests broke out at the site, and online forums filled up with angry posts alleging financial mismanagement, unpaid dues, and zero transparency.Basically, the vibes were off, and the money definitely wasnt moving.The situation blew up when the Gurugram Polices Economic Offences Wing (EOW) arrested Dhruv Dutt Sharma, founder and managing director of the company behind 32nd Avenue. Authorities allege a massive 500-crore real estate fraud, with claims that a single commercial floor, around 3,000 sq ft, was sold to over 25 different buyers.The investigation began after Tram Ventures Private Limited alleged it paid for the property in 2021 but never received ownership registration. Police later uncovered multiple FIRs accusing the management of cheating, forgery, criminal breach of trust, and conspiracy.Even before the fraud case made headlines, local authorities had flagged building code violations at the property. These reportedly included blocked fire access routes and unauthorized constructions. Notices were issued, but according to officials, compliance remained questionable, adding another layer of trouble to an already messy situation.Heres the part that hits beyond investors. 32nd Avenue isnt just real estate, its culture. Its where Gurgaon built its soft-life reputation. With arrests, FIRs, and legal probes stacking up, people are now worried the complex could lose tenants, shut down sections, or go completely dark.For cafe owners, restaurant staff, freelancers, and small businesses operating there, the uncertainty is real. For regulars, it feels like losing a familiar third place, a space that shaped the citys lifestyle identity.As of now, the property is still operational, but its future is shaky. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and investor recovery could take years. Whats clear is that the 32nd Avenue saga is a cautionary tale: aesthetic cant cover structural cracks forever.Pretty spaces can still have ugly paperwork, and Gurgaon just learned that the hard way. Malaysian influencer fined over controversial video Image credit : Instagram | @aluk_77 | Tang Sie Luk Fined 9.2 Lakh for Viral Video Accused of Exploiting Homeless Man View this post on Instagram A post shared by Free Malaysia Today (FMT News) (@freemalaysiatoday) Following the verdict, he deleted the video and issued a public apology, promising to change his approach to content creation. Homeless man insulted as video sparks online backlash The video quickly drew widespread online backlash, with many criticising the teenagers' actions. According to the prosecutor, the homeless man reported feeling insulted and angry, stating that the act was not charitable but rather a deliberate exploitation of his situation to generate social media content and attract attention. Image credit : Instagram | @aluk_77 | utrage Over Homeless Man Video Who is Tang Sie Luk? Tang Sie Luk, popularly known as Aluk or by his handle @aluk_777, is a 23-year-old Malaysian social media influencer who came under intense public scrutiny in August 2025. The controversy arose after he posted a video showing himself and three teenage boys giving a homeless man a packet of rice combined with chicken bones. In a shocking post that triggered widespread outrage, a Malaysian social media influencer has been fined RM40,000 for uploading a deeply offensive video that mocked homelessness in the name of charity. The influencer has been identified as 23-year-old Tang Sie Luk. As soon as the clip surfaced on social media, it went viral before being taken down, showing teenagers offering food scraps to a homeless man, sparking condemnation for its cruel and exploitative portrayal. But who is Tang Sie Luk? Let's find out more.In a controversial episode that drew widespread criticism, Malaysian influencer Tang Sie Luk faced an RM40000 (around Rs 9.2 lakh) fine for posting a video showing teenagers giving a homeless man rice mixed with chicken bones. The video, first shared on Douyin and later on Instagram, was framed as a 'kind deed' but was widely condemned as exploitative.The now-deleted clip opened with a voiceover stating, "Today we are going to do a kind deed." It showed three teenage boys eating fried chicken from a KFC box, then noting that throwing away the bones would be wasteful. In the Chios shipwreck, during which 15 people were killed, there are additional elements of particular interest. NEWS 24/7, following yesterdays revelation of the statements given to the Investigating Judge of Chios by the survivors and the Coast Guard captain, today brings to light another aspect that deserves close attention. The head of the Thessaloniki Court of Appeal Prosecutors Office ordered the conduct of a preliminary investigation into what occurred outside the Polytechnic School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Civil society organisations, along with ex-presidential candidate Peter Obi, on Monday protested against the Godswill Akpabio-led Senate over the removal of the provision for the real-time transmission of election results from the Electoral Act. The protest was held at the main entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja. Police officers and operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps were stationed on the premises, while the intersecting roads leading to the parliaments complex were partitioned with their vehicles. Advertisement The protesters stormed the centre area at about 9:30 a.m. to demand passage of the Electoral Amendment Bill, which provides for the real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units and is currently under consideration by the Senate. The protester marched through the streets of Abuja carrying protest placards with several inscriptions, including Say No To Electoral Fraud, We Reject The Senates Rejection, Akpabio, E-Transmission Is A Must, and Transmission Is Progress Not Retrogression, among others. Mr Obi joined the protesters around 10:00 a.m. The Senate has faced widespread criticism following its refusal to pass the bill mandating the electronic transmission of election results into law on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Mr Akpabio has announced an emergency plenary for Tuesday (tomorrow). President Bola Tinubu has received a delegation from the United States led by the Commander of the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The delegation was led by General Dagvin R. Anderson, Commander of USAFRICOM, and accompanied by the Charge dAffaires of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Keith Heffern, alongside other members of the team. The meeting took place at the State House, where the President welcomed the visitors in the company of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the nations service chiefs. Advertisement This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday by the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Mr. Dada Olusegun. According to the statement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside his National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and service chiefs, received in audience the Commander of the United States Africa Command, General Dagvin Anderson, his team, and the Charge dAffaires of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, Keith Heffern, at the State House, Abuja. Although details of the closed-door meeting were not immediately made public, the visit comes amid growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. The engagement also follows reports that the United States recently deployed a small team of troops to Nigeria on February 3, marking the first official U.S. military presence on Nigerian soil since airstrikes targeted terrorist positions in the country on Christmas Day 2025. A griffin on the roof of the northern wing of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It inspired the new logo when the museum announced a name change Oct. 8, 2025, as part of a larger rebranding. The new name was changed back to Philadelphia Museum of Art at a special meeting Feb. 4. Read more Two more Philadelphia Museum of Art senior staffers are departing as the museum continues to plot out its path after a period of institutional turmoil. Maggie Fairs, who was promoted to chief of staff last year by former director and CEO Sasha Suda, will leave the museum at the end of the month. CFO Valarie McDuffie has also resigned, with her last day this Friday. Advertisement Previously, the museum parted ways with its marketing chief Paul Dien as of Feb. 1. Days later, the museum announced that it was reversing course on a renaming while keeping its new logo. Both changes were unveiled four months earlier in a rebranding overseen by Suda and Dien. No other immediate departures are expected, though the museum is working on an organizational review, with more changes possible later, a spokesperson said. Suda announced the arrival of both Fairs and McDuffie in May 2023, saying that these two colleagues reflect the future of the institution. Fairs was hired as vice president of communications after having worked in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. McDuffie had previously held several senior financial posts in secondary education. Fairs was promoted by Suda to chief of staff in May 2025. A replacement will not be hired, as the museum is restructuring the directors office without that position. Suda was dismissed from the museum in November and subsequently filed a lawsuit alleging that her dismissal was without a valid basis. The matter is now headed to arbitration. Director and CEO Daniel H. Weiss, who took over in December, said in January that the staff of the museum was the heart and soul of the place and they need to be treasured and supported and also held accountable, and that the museum needed a senior management team that is available to them and transparent in its processes and also accountable. Asked at the time whether there would be a reorganization, he said: With our ambition and our mission, and as that evolves a little bit under each new leader, there needs to be careful review of how the organization serves the needs of the moment. So thats underway. The museum on Monday also announced Katherine Anne Paul as new curator of Indian and Himalayan art. Paul was most recently curator of Asian Art at the Birmingham Museum of Art since 2019, and held earlier positions at the Newark Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C. She holds a Ph.D. in languages and cultures of Asia from the University of WisconsinMadison. Weiss, in Mondays announcement, singled out Pauls scholarship and her extensive knowledge of the Philadelphia Museum of Arts collection. She was assistant and associate curator of Indian and Himalayan art at the museum from 2002 to 2008. A previous version of the headline misrepresented the terms of the employees work termination. They resigned. Employees and participants at a rally and news conference about EPA workers being put on leave after signing a letter critical of the Trump administration, in Philadelphia, July 9, 2025. Read more Some federal workers arent leaving public service altogether. Theyre landing jobs in local government. A job-seeking platform managed by national nonprofit Work for America is helping some workers find those new roles. The service is relatively new but predates President Donald Trumps efforts to shrink the federal workforce in 2025. Advertisement Some 350 workers with federal job experience in Pennsylvania and 169 in New Jersey have used the platform, called Civic Match, since it was founded in November 2024. Nearly 900 state and local government roles in Pennsylvania have been posted on the platform since its start and 42 in New Jersey. And, according to new data, 187 former federal workers across the U.S. have used the site and landed jobs in state or local government. While thats a small fraction of the total federal workers who have left their jobs in the last year amid the Trump administrations shake-up of the workforce, the new data shed light on where workers are landing after leaving government positions. The federal government cut 271,000 jobs from January through November last year. That included workers who were laid off, left of their own accord, or took a government incentive to resign. In October, just after Trumps deferred resignation program took effect, Pennsylvania and New Jersey lost roughly 6,000 federal jobs. There really isnt a centralized place where someone looking for a state or other local government job can go, said Caitlin Lewis, executive director at Work for America. The platform is open only to job seekers who have federal work experience or who lost their jobs because of federal funding cuts, but Lewis hopes to open it up to others in the future. Who are these federal workers? Austin Holland was working in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development last year, when federal workers were instructed to begin working in the office full-time. He had been working remotely from Lancaster much of the time and commuting to Washington, a few days per pay period. Relocating to D.C. wasnt feasible for him. I really enjoyed my federal job, and I had imagined that it was kind of something I was going to do for my entire career, he said. I was struggling with losing that and trying to figure out Where is my career going from here? Holland estimates that he joined the Civic Match platform in early 2025. Through a virtual job fair, he made a connection that ultimately led to a job at the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. He took a pay cut but was able to stay in Lancaster and in public service. Before leaving his job at the Environmental Protection Agency, Andrew Kreider uploaded his resume to Civic Match and attended some of the platforms webinars. It was refreshing and validating to have such high-quality hiring officials participating, Kreider said. I think it helped remind those of us who maybe were a little bit disillusioned or were feeling traumatized by what we had just been through that there were places where we could continue to serve where we wouldnt be subject to what we were going through at the federal level. Kreider, who lives in Chester County, also used LinkedIn to look for jobs and searched government websites. He ultimately landed a communications director job with Chester County, which he found on the countys job listing board. Hes been in the new job for roughly two months and says some days are completely overwhelming. County governments do a lot of work with not as many resources as federal agencies tend to have, he said. Im working as a communication director for an organization three times the size of the one I came from, but Im making significantly less money and sort of being responsible for communications related to far more things. Hes taken a pay cut but said he loves the new job. Its been, for me, an affirmation of how many good people there are who just want to help, Kreider said. Im surrounded by people who come into work every day to serve their neighbors and their communities. On a recent Thursday afternoon in February, Civic Match had seven jobs posted in Philadelphia. Available positions with the city included a chief epidemiologist, a director of tax policy, and a director of adult education. The majority of the 187 platform users who have found jobs 63% are workers with at least eight years of public sector experience, according to new data from Work for America. Roughly 40% found jobs in human resources or other operations-related roles. One-third of those hired have relocated for their new jobs out of state, with 22% reporting a move of over 100 miles from their previous position. READ MORE: These Philly federal workers loved their jobs. But amid Trumps shakeup they chose to leave. Their federal experience came from a range of departments, including the Departments of Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation, as well as USAID, the General Services Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency. The aim of Work for America is to curb staffing shortages in local governments and help speed up their hiring process, Lewis said. READ MORE: Nearly a quarter of Philly city jobs are still vacant, but Parkers team believes its turning a corner Unlike the private sector, government does not really think about its employer brand and marketing itself as a potential employer, she said. Individual local governments dont have the same amount of resourcing to actually think about expressing an employee value proposition and really marketing to folks who could be great fits for roles that they have open. A Western Pennsylvania man stole nearly $250,000 from the Montgomery County-based Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association, prosecutors said Monday, and spent the money on a trip to Disney World, country club membership fees, an Outer Banks vacation rental, and other personal expenses. Michael Fantuzzo, 40, was charged with several counts of theft for the crimes, which prosecutors said took place between 2021 and 2024 while Fantuzzo, of Westmoreland County, served as treasurer for the nonprofit trade organization. Advertisement In all, prosecutors said, Fantuzzo spent $246,708 of the associations funds, effectively reducing its savings account to zero. Fantuzzo admitted to investigators that he used the associations funds for personal expenses, though he initially told them he had spent $90,000 of the groups funds and did so by accident. A further investigation into Fantuzzos spending found that the sum was much larger. Prosecutors say Fantuzzo spent more than $100,000 from the associations bank account to pay off debt on a handful of credit cards opened in his name. And Fantuzzo charged more than $128,000 to the associations credit card, including $10,513 to install a hot tub at his home; $7,247 for a vacation home rental in Duck, N.C.; $5,460 for his local and county taxes; $4,124 for membership to the Hillcrest Country Club; $2,040 for a limousine service; and $2,019 for the trip to Disney World. Members of the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association, based in Plymouth Meeting at the time of the theft, realized something was wrong when newly elected board members learned the organization they inherited was experiencing severe financial distress, police said. They reported the suspicious payments to authorities in November. The association advocates for occupational therapists and provides career development and networking opportunities, among other services, according to its website. Investigators say they linked the spending back to Fantuzzo in a variety of ways. Some payments, such as the Disney World tickets, included Fantuzzo and his family members names on the charges. Meanwhile, the PayPal payments went to an account bearing the name of Fantuzzos wife. And investigators tracked Fantuzzos name back to invoices and rental agreements for other purchases. Fantuzzo turned himself in to Montgomery County authorities on Feb. 6. He was released from custody and is expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Feb. 17. The house on the 300 block of Magee Avenue where a woman was found decapitated in November 2022. Read more Hours before Ahmad Shareef was arrested for killing his wife, he called his mother and confessed. I cut her head off, he told her, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest. Advertisement On Monday, Shareef, 37, was sentenced to 16 to 42 years in prison in the decapitation death of Leila Al Raheel inside the couples Northeast Philadelphia home. Shareef pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and related crimes in the November 2022 slaying. I dont think Ive ever seen a case like this, said Common Pleas Court Judge Charles Ehrlich. New details of the killing also surfaced during the hearing. After Shareef confessed to his mother, she asked a neighbor to go to her sons home in the 300 block of Magee Avenue and check on Al Raheel, according to the affidavit. The neighbor found Al Raheel dead in the dining room, she later told police. Officers who responded to the house discovered Al Raheels headless body on the kitchen floor, the affidavit said. They found Shareef about four miles away, hiding in bushes in front of a house. His sweatpants, the document said, were stained red with blood. Inside a police interview room, Shareef waived his Miranda rights, according to the affidavit. He told detectives hed argued with Al Raheel after she had called him names. Then, he said, he cut off her head with a kitchen knife. In court Monday, the neighbor described how discovering Al Raheels body upended her life. She said she has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. This isnt something that time simply erases, she said. No one testified on Shareefs behalf. His mother, who had been expected to appear, was ill and unable to attend, his defense attorney, Gregg Blender, said. Al Raheel, who came to the U.S. with Shareef and his family in 2011, has no family to speak on her behalf, said the prosecutor, Maggie McDermott. The judge imposed a sentence slightly below the prosecutions request of 23 to 47 years, after Shareefs attorney urged him to consider his clients traumatic childhood and long-standing mental illness, which he said went largely untreated. As a child, Shareef moved with his mother from Kuwait to Iraq and later to Syria, fleeing both war and abusive men who, Blender said, subjected them to violence. At the insistence of his family, Shareef later married Al Raheel, a neighbor, Blender said. In the U.S., Shareef was treated repeatedly for mental health crises, Blender said. In 2012, he was hospitalized after striking himself and cutting his wrists, and in 2019, Blender said, Shareef stabbed himself in the neck. Blender urged the judge to weigh what he described as his clients horrific upbringing against what he acknowledged was nothing less than a horrific crime. McDermott called the killing the peak of domestic violence and unspeakably awful, and warned that Shareef posed a continuing danger. If he was capable of such violence toward someone he loved, she argued, then even strangers were at risk. Ehrlich said the sentence reflected both Shareefs traumatic past and the threat he posed going forward. To sever a head with a kitchen knife takes a lot of effort, he said. Mr. Shareef, you have lived a life of horrors. I dont think anyone in this courtroom disputes that. The question, he added, was what needed to be done to protect others. Im very concerned about the future Im going to be honest with you, the judge said. What happened to you as a child was not your fault. But people with this kind of damage can hurt others. After the slaying, neighbors told The Inquirer that several people had been living in the house, which had become an eyesore on the block. Shareef, they said, stood out: He behaved aggressively to other residents, and sometimes appeared outside wearing only underwear. Since late 2016, police responded to more than 50 calls on the 300 block of Magee Street for domestic disturbances, reports of weapons, and other complaints. However, police would not disclose exact addresses, and it remains unclear how many of those calls if any originated from the home Shareef shared with Al Raheel, where she was eventually killed. The citys Department of Licenses and Inspections also confirmed that inspectors visited the house more than a year before Al Raheel was killed, following reports that the houses garage was being used as a living space. But the inspectors werent able to gain access to the property, according to the department. Instead, they issued violations for weeds and combustible storage. Police tape cordons off the scene of a fatal shooting in Levittown on March 16, 2024. Read more A Philadelphia man was charged with murder after fatally shooting his girlfriend in Levittown this weekend, shortly after she told police he had sexually assaulted her, authorities said. Yujun Ren, 32, turned himself in to police in Middletown Township Sunday and told them he had been trying to scare the woman, Yuan Yuan Lu, when the firearm he carried accidentally discharged, killing her. Advertisement Investigators believe otherwise, according to the affidavit of probable cause for Rens arrest. In addition to murder, prosecutors charged Ren with stalking and a gun crime. He is being held without bail. Bristol Township police discovered Lus body shortly after noon Sunday in the drivers seat of a white Hyundai in a residential neighborhood, according to the affidavit. Lu had been shot in the head. Police found that the drivers side window had been struck by gunfire, and they recovered an expended shell casing from a small caliber handgun. In Rens interview with investigators, he told them that Lu had said hurtful things and took their cats and dogs, the affidavit said, leading him to pull the handgun in an attempt to scare her. A day earlier, Lu had told Philadelphia police that Ren had sexually assaulted her at his home on South Orianna Street in Pennsport. The assault, which Lu said happened around 1 p.m. Saturday, led her to end the relationship and pack her things to leave while Ren was at work, according to the affidavit. Lu told police she was afraid of Ren and said he had a firearm he carried everywhere, the document said. Ren legally owned a Mossberg MC20 9mm pistol, investigators found. The day Ren turned himself in, a woman who told police that she was Rens aunt turned that firearm over to Middletown Township authorities, according to the affidavit. Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan said in a statement that the killing was a sobering reminder of the lethal nature of domestic violence. Our investigation revealed a chilling course of conduct, said Khan, adding that investigators recovered evidence showing Ren stalked Lu in the early morning hours before shooting her. Ren is set to appear in district court Tuesday for a preliminary hearing. A snowboarder glides down the steps of a Philadelphia school in this 2022 file photo. Read more Building woes triggered by a sustained blast of cold weather continue at some Philadelphia schools. Staff at Strawberry Mansion High reported that about half the building was without heat Monday, with some classrooms in the 40s and hallways not much warmer. Advertisement And staff and students at Greenberg Elementary in the Northeast had to relocate to the old Meehan Middle School after nearly a week of virtual school because of heating problems. Due to insufficient heat throughout the building, Greenberg is not able to safely support in-person learning at this time, district officials wrote to parents this weekend. Our facilities team is actively working to resolve the heating issue as quickly as possible. At this time, the repair timeline is still being assessed, but we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Meehan is one of the districts swing spaces it no longer operates as a school, but is used as an alternate location for schools that need it. It recently housed Thomas Holme Elementary while a new building was constructed for that school. Its unclear how long Greenberg students will need to stay at Meehan. The move rankled some Greenberg parents, who had logistical and safety concerns about sending their children to a different location. Katy Foley-Gallagher, mom of a Greenberg kindergartener and third grader, said virtual learning was a challenge on days she had to work, her husband had to take off from his job to manage their daughter and son. But moving to Meehan isnt ideal either, Foley-Gallagher said. Everybodys getting anxious this is disrupting their learning, said Foley-Gallagher. They district is not taking care of their building, and they dont keep up with the infrastructure at all. The school system, which a 2023 landmark court ruling acknowledged has been underfunded for decades, has billions in unmet building needs. Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. has proposed a facilities master plan that would cost $2.8 billion and require closing 20 buildings, as well as modernizing 159 others. Its not yet clear whether Greenberg would receive upgrades as part of that process. And that plan, which the school board is expected to vote on this winter, would take years to implement. Greenberg, like other district schools in the Northeast, is overcrowded, with over 1,000 students in a building whose capacity is 800. Students can no longer leave their classrooms for art or music; those rooms have been repurposed to accommodate extra classes. Theyre going to put them back in these crowded rooms, said Foley-Gallagher. Greenberg is such a good school, but I worry that this is going to drive people out of the school, out of the city. She and other parents said they had concerns about their children being on a campus with Lincoln High, another overcrowded school. District officials said they were taking steps to ensure a smooth transition for students and families as Greenberg relocates to Meehan. The district is providing shuttle service for students who normally walk to Greenberg, though the shuttle leaves at 8 a.m., a half hour after classes begin. We understand that unexpected changes can be challenging for families, and we appreciate your patience and partnership as we work to restore normal building operations, district chief operating officer Teresa Fleming wrote in an email to parents. The safety and well-being of our school community remain our highest priority. Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia will consider opening its undergraduate programs to men. Read more Moore College of Art and Design will consider opening its undergraduate programs to men for the first time in its 177-year history. The Philadelphia school, which touts its role as the first and only historically visual arts college for women in the nation, cited the need to make arts programs more accessible in the region and the expected national decline in the available pool of high school graduates. Advertisement The college, which enrolls about 500 students, will study and discuss with its community the prospect of admitting men over the next four months and make a decision by June, the school announced in emails to alumni, faculty, and students Monday. If the school decides to admit all genders, the first class admitted would be for 2027. READ MORE: How the UArts closure transformed Moore College of Art & Design, the last art-centered college in Philly We will explore all of this together in an inclusive way for students, faculty, staff, and alumni, wrote Moore president Cathy Young and Frances Graham and Art Block, chairs of the schools board of trustees and board of managers, respectively. Your voices are essential. No decision has been made at this time. The boards want your feedback. If Moore goes coed, Bryn Mawr College would be the only remaining womens school in the Philadelphia region. (In Allentown, Cedar Crest College remains primarily a womens college.) Several other colleges in the region that were formerly for women have gone coed over the last decades, including Rosemont on Philadelphias Main Line in 2008, Immaculata University in Chester County in 2005, and Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia in 2003. Nationally, the number of womens colleges has been declining from a high of over 200 to just 31 as of 2022, according to a 2025 report by the Pew Research Center. It wouldnt be the first change in Moores admissions policy in recent years. READ MORE: This womens college declared its doors open to nonbinary students. And more enrolled. In 2015, Moore began admitting all qualified students who live as women and who consistently identify as women at the time of application. Then in 2020, Moore also began accepting nonbinary and gender-nonconforming students. Since then, the number of those students has been growing. They made up 6% of the first freshman class under the new policy in 2021. By fall 2022, they accounted for 21%, and by fall 2023, 26%. Last fall, that grew to one-third of the freshman class. Moores graduate programs and most of its continuing education programs already include men. Moore officials said they are making the decision from a position of financial and academic strength. The school has had operating surpluses for the last 24 consecutive years, a school spokesperson said. Many small schools have faced financial strain in recent years, but Moore fared among the top small private colleges in the Philadelphia region for financial health in a 2024 Inquirer review. Moores net tuition climbed from $10.8 million to $12.7 million in fiscal 2024 and to $16.5 million in fiscal 2025, financial records show. The school also saw a big gain in private gifts and grants last year to $2.2 million, up from $885,383 the year before. This years enrollment is the schools second highest behind fall 2024, when the college accepted 112 students from the University of the Arts, which abruptly closed in June 2024. The school also took 12 students that year from the Delaware College of Art and Design, which closed that year, too. READ MORE: Heres a look at new buildings and programs coming to Philly-area colleges this school year Moore opened a new residence hall in Rittenhouse Square last fall, which is just a seven-minute walk from campus and will allow the school to guarantee students housing for all four years. In announcing the possibility of accepting all genders, Moore officials noted UArts closure and the end of degree-granting programs at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. There is a void in Philadelphias higher ed creative landscape, and that begs the question: Shouldnt all creatives, regardless of gender, have access to Moore they wrote. The answer doesnt have to be yes, but it is our responsibility to explore it. College surveys of applicants have shown that the schools status as a womens college isnt a big draw. Only 6% cited it as important to their decision out of 885 survey respondents over the last dozen years, the school said. Meanwhile, a quarter said it was one of the important reasons they didnt choose Moore. Moore officials also cited the expected drop in the high school graduate population beginning this year because of declining birth rates. A decline of 10% is expected by 2037, they noted. There are simply fewer students, they wrote. No responsible institution can ignore factors like these. And we wont. They said they will discuss ways to preserve and activate in new ways Moores history and legacy as part of the exploration. Between February and April, Moore plans to host about 20 sessions for faculty, staff, and alumni to share their thoughts, as well as providing an opportunity for online comments. Staff writer Harold Brubaker contributed to this article. The Kibitz Room, in Holly Ravine Plaza at 100 Springdale Rd. in Cherry Hill, on Feb. 2, 2026. Read more The Kibitz Room in Cherry Hill, which shut down abruptly about two weeks ago after 25 years, has filed for bankruptcy protection, seeking to liquidate its assets. An attorney for the deli filed paperwork Friday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Camden, claiming assets of less than $50,000 and liabilities of $100,001 to $500,000. A hearing on the Chapter 7 petition was scheduled for March 3. Social media posts on Jan. 30 noted that the deli, owned by Sandy Parish, had apparently closed without notice. Advertisement Meanwhile, former owner Neil Parish Sandys ex-husband told Patch in an article published Monday morning that he was talking to the landlord about reopening the deli. Their son Brandon commented on a public Facebook post midday Monday that he was working on reopening under a new entity. Unfortunately the previous ownership was out of my hands but I did run the store for the last nine years until I left to open the other location. It surely wasnt from lack of business!! Veteran deli operator Russ Cowan opened the Kibitz Room in Holly Ravine Plaza in 2001. Two years later, Neil Parish bought it using their daughters bat mitzvah gifts as the down payment. She got four years at Syracuse, all covered, Neil Parish said in an interview last year. It was a good investment. After Neil and Sandy Parish split up in 2016, Sandy ran the Kibitz Room with their son Brandon, now 32. Neil moved to the Baltimore area, where he ran delis before returning to Philadelphia. Brandon Parish stopped working in Cherry Hill early last year when he and his father opened the Kibitz Room King of Prussia in Valley Forge Center, which is not involved in the bankruptcy. Sandy Parish did not return messages seeking comment, nor did her son. In an interview last year, Brandon Parish said he had worked at the Cherry Hill deli since he could stand on a milk crate and wash dishes. I didnt want to be in camp, Parish said. I didnt want to be at school. If it wasnt the lacrosse field, I wanted to be at the shop. It was just the whole environment. The people who worked there were a second family. By the time Taylor Schuler finally freed their car, they were exhausted. It had taken five hours across two days, hacking at the wall of ice encasing their Prius bumper, shoveling piles of frozen snow off the tires, to complete the job. As the sun set on their afternoon of labor, they were tempted to put a piece of furniture in their hard-earned spot, a practice sometimes known as savesies in Philadelphia. But they knew better. Having just moved to Philly from Houston, the 28-year-old academic librarian wasnt all that familiar with cold-weather etiquette, so they took to the internet ahead of Januarys snowstorm to figure out what exactly Phillys rules are. They gathered that people werent all that fond of the savesies practice, so, tempted as they were to hold onto their spot, they let it go. Advertisement Once the spot was cleared, they circled the block, a quick trip to make sure their car was still working. Their internet research had also led them to believe no one would just take their spot immediately. As they rounded the corner toward their house, though, they saw another driver lurch into the spot they just spent hours digging out. Oh jeez, Schuler thought to themselves. Its like the Wild West out here. In some snow-burdened cities, saving a shoveled-out parking spot is a deeply ingrained winter habit. Boston even formally acknowledges the practice by allowing residents to mark a spot they dug out for up to 48 hours after a storm. In Chicago, protecting your precious dug-out parking space with a lawn chair is called dibs, and its been a beloved and widely accepted tradition since the great blizzard of 1967. But Philadelphia exists in a murkier middle ground. Until about two weeks ago, it snowed infrequently enough and melted fast enough that any theory about our collective approach to storm parking was never really put to the test. But the lingering snow has revealed a kind of civic chaos, with neighbors operating under wildly different assumptions and fights breaking out over who is entitled to snow-cleared parking spots. The divide is often generational. Older residents, who experienced harsher winters, are more likely to embrace savesies as another classic Philly tradition while younger residents and transplants see it as territorial nonsense, out of step with the values of densely populated city life. Schuler finds the entire debate exhausting. I just want to be able to go to work and come home, they said. I didnt ask for any of this. Jeff Martin, 43, who lives in South Philly, describes himself as firmly no savesies but with caveats. He wont put out a chair. He wont defend one. But he also wont move someone elses. I dont believe in the chair, Martin said. But Im going to obey the chair. His reasons are entirely practical. I dont want to get keyed, he said. Martin argues Philadelphias parking wars are a symptom of the changing climate. The fact that over the last 20 years, we havent gotten as much snow as we did over the previous 20 years has made us forget how to deal with it, he said, and the city forget how to deal with it to the point where they dont properly fund the removal of snow. For the record, the city is firmly in the #nosavesies camp, and the police routinely remind Philadelphians that saving parking spots is illegal. Of course, that doesnt stop people from doing it and other people complaining about it. Lucas Tran didnt see the cinderblock in the spot he parked in on Tuesday night. It wasnt until another driver pulled up and told him that he was in her spot that he became aware of it. She said she had dug out the spot herself, saved it with the cinderblock, and that Tran had to move. READ MORE: Can I move the cones my neighbor places to save his parking spot? At first, he refused. But he backed down after she called him a liar and a little b. He didnt want things to escalate. The next day, she left a handwritten apology on his car. Thank you for moving your car, it read. You are NOT a little b. Tran takes a special exception approach to the savesies debate. If the woman had been elderly or a first responder, or if it had been two or three days after the storm rather than a full week later, he might have been more understanding. But the roads are drivable now, he said. There are more options to park. You cant keep claiming a spot thats public property. Back in West Philly, Schuler spent the week parking wherever they could. The spot they dug out remained occupied until one evening, when they pulled up, excited to reclaim what was once theirs only to find a folding table balanced on two overturned pots in their way. Someone had savesied Schulers spot. Schuler snapped a photo and uploaded it to Reddit, where the response was nearly unanimous. As one Redditor put it, thats diabolical. It was the one version of savesies Schuler had never seen defended. If theres anything people agree on, they said, its that you dont do that. Gov. Josh Shapiro and his wife, Lori Shapiro, depart a talk for his new memoir Where We Keep the Light on Jan. 29 in Washington, D.C Read more Gov. Josh Shapiros Abington Township neighbors filed a federal lawsuit Monday against Pennsylvanias first couple, in what is the latest clash over security upgrades to his personal home following an arson attack on the governors Harrisburg residence while Shapiro and his family slept inside. In the suit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Shapiros neighbors in Abington Township, Jeremy and Simone Mock, accuse the governor and his wife, Lori Shapiro, of illegally occupying part of the Mocks yard to build an eight-foot security fence last summer in what they claim in the lawsuit is an outrageous abuse of power. Advertisement In short, they asked a federal judge to order the Shapiros off their property. The Shapiros quickly filed a countersuit in Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas on Monday against the Mocks, asking a judge to declare that the disputed chunk of the property has been theirs for years. The attempt to build the new fence is part of a larger security upgrade for Shapiro and his family, following the April firebombing of the state-owned governors residence in Harrisburg, when a man broke in to the mansion and set off Molotov cocktails that quickly engulfed part of the home. Cody Balmer, 38, pleaded guilty in October to attempted murder and was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison. READ MORE: The arson at Gov. Josh Shapiros mansion erupted within minutes. The impact lingers. The Mocks, whose property is adjacent to the Shapiros Montgomery County property, say the planned location of the fence is on their property unlawfully and violates their rights, according to the lawsuit. The couple is represented by Wally Zimolong, a Delaware County attorney who is described as the go-to lawyer in Pennsylvania for conservative causes and candidates on his firms website. He previously represented the political campaigns of President Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick (R., Pa.), according to his website. The Governor looks forward to a swift resolution and will not be bullied by anyone trying to score cheap political points, especially at the expense of his familys safety and wellbeing, Will Simons, a spokesperson for Shapiro, a Democrat running for reelection, said in a statement. According to the Mocks lawsuit, the Shapiros approached their neighbors in July to discuss the construction of a security fence near where their yards meet. The Shapiros were interested in purchasing a portion of the Mocks property for the fence, and also discussed a lease option. But the couples couldnt agree on the price, according to the suit. Things took a turn in late August, when, according to the lawsuit, the Shapiros attorney told the Mocks they would obtain the chunk of land through alternative actions. What followed was an outrageous abuse of power by the sitting Governor of Pennsylvania and its former Attorney General, the complaint says. (Shapiro served as Pennsylvanias attorney general before he was elected governor in 2022.) The Shapiros told the Mock family, according to the neighbors lawsuit, that they owned the land through adverse possession, a legal mechanism through which a person can gain ownership of a property theyve actively used for at least 21 years. The Shapiros have lived in their Montgomery County home for 23 years. The governor and first lady then began planting arborvitae-type trees and other plants on the Mocks property, flying drones over it, threatening to remove healthy trees, and chasing away contractors who came to work in the Mocks yard, the lawsuit claims. The complaint also accuses Shapiro of directing state police to patrol the property. Troopers instructed the Mocks to leave the area of the yard multiple times, calling it a disputed area or security zone, the suit says. The Mocks purchased the house in 2017, according to property records, and their lawsuit says they have paid taxes on the property over the time period. The offer to purchase the land shows the Shapiros knew it wasnt theirs, according to the complaint. The Shapiros continue to occupy the Mock Property without permission or any legal justification whatsoever, the lawsuit says. The security fencing for the Shapiros home was purchased but ultimately never installed, and is being repurposed at the Pennsylvania State Police training academy, Spotlight PA previously reported. Zimolong declined to comment on the lawsuit Monday. The Shapiros countersuit The Shapiros lawsuit doesnt dispute many elements of the Mocks suit, but casts them in a different light. As the Shapiros tell it, a land surveyor discovered in summer 2025 that the Mocks actually owned about 2,900 square feet of land that the Shapiros had believed was a part of their property since they bought the home in 2003. That time period, 22 years, satisfies Pennsylvanias adverse possession law. The Mocks didnt consider that part of the property to be theirs, according to the complaint, until the Shapiros told them. But after negotiations fell apart when the Shapiros attempted to purchase the land, the Mocks sought a permit to erect their own fence and include the disputed area on their property, the suit says. Shapiros security detail denied a tree-removal contractor access to the area, according to the complaint, because the first couple believe they possessed the land. And the state police troopers the Mocks saw were part of Shapiros security detail, which after the April attack have conducted review of his Abington home. The governor and his wife are asking a judge to find that they are the legal and equitable owners of the area in dispute. Scrutiny over security Shapiro has faced scrutiny for using taxpayer dollars with little transparency to upgrade the security of his personal home, which is the primary residence for two of his four children, who are school-aged. State Police spent at least $1 million to upgrade security on his Abington Township property, in addition to more than $32 million in upgrades and repairs to the Harrisburg governors mansion. The GOP-controlled Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee in December took the rare step of subpoenaing Shapiro for access to records about how taxpayer dollars were spent to upgrade the Shapiro property and home, including a new security system and landscaping work previously reported by Spotlight PA . Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R., Lehigh), who chairs the committee, argued the subpoenas were necessary because the Shapiro administration did not turn over the requested documents, or turned over incomplete records. As the Democratic governor of the nations fifth most-populous state, Shapiro continues to face threats to his safety. Police arrested a Carlisle man last week for allegedly sending messages to the governors office, that said I do plan on stalking and hurting your family, before adding metaphorically speaking of course. The man, George R. Brown Jr., later told police they were fake threats and he was trying to get help with an eye injury he suffered while at Cumberland County Prison, PennLive reported. Mary K. Church, of Wayne, Pa., (right), and Sue OReilly, of Malvern, Pa., (left), are buying a few baked goods from the Devon Road Made bakery cart in Willistown, Pa., on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Read more When Jacqueline Spains now-grown kids were having a bad day, she would sit them down at the kitchen island and bake them something. Now, she has opened up that kitchen island to her community with her roadside home bakery, Devon Road Made. Food is love, love is food, Spain said, standing in her kitchen recently, bread in the oven and cookies on the counter. I like to put a lot of heart and soul into it. I feel if youre going to put good energy into that, people are going to feel that. Theyre going to taste it; theyre going to like it. Advertisement Devon Road Made is one of the newer additions to a trend of microbakeries that are cropping up in Chester County, some with roadside carts and stands dotting residential roads in Paoli, Downingtown, West Chester, and elsewhere. Statewide, interest in selling home-baked goods has been growing. Pennsylvania had 361 licensed home bakeries in 2023. That nearly doubled, to 663, in 2025, according to the state agriculture department, which oversees the inspections and licensing of food businesses that operate out of home, rather than commercial, kitchens. There has been a general bakery boom, too, in Philly. Chester County appears to be a growing incubator of such little bakeries: It had 28 licensed home bakeries in 2025, compared with 16 in 2023, the department said. Before issuing a license, the department inspects the bakers food production site. Bakers must verify they have zoning approval to have a business on their property, submit ingredient labels, restrict pets or not have them, and have an approved water supply. It costs $35 to register. In the few weeks since, Spain, 59, and her husband, David, 60, rolled their bakery cart to the foot of their yard at 60 Devon Rd. in Willistown, the community has indeed seemed to like it. Jacqueline Spains cookies and David Spains sourdough loaves continually sell out. People knock on their door to ask if things will be restocked. One woman sat at the Spains kitchen island, sampling freshly baked cookies, while awaiting her pickup order. Everything we make, she has been making for years, David Spain said. Thats kind of part of our DNA. Its got to taste really good something that we would only serve our friends and family. And Chester County seems like a place perfectly ripe for these little bakeries to thrive, several home bakers said: Its not a wholly rural community, nor is it totally Main Line. There is an affluent clientele (Chester is the wealthiest county by median income in the state) with an interest in homemade, quality ingredients. But they do face some headwinds: A number of municipalities restrict such carts through zoning codes, even if the bakers are licensed to sell. Alexa Geiser, 28, of Lulus Bread & Bakery in West Chester, opened her home bakery in October, originally selling her sourdough first come, first served from her porch. But then the borough told her she was not permitted to sell from her residential porch, and she moved entirely online to sell her bread and the occasional chocolate chip cookie batch. Though its a bummer she said it was nice to talk with people stopping by for a peaceful hour on Fridays she felt supported by the community, who offered their businesses for her to host her pickups. I think people really value homemade goods that people put a lot of effort into, and good quality ingredients, she said. I use all organic flours and filtered water and good salt in my bread, which is something I personally value. Its what I want to give to my customers as well. But the stands are a niche the bakers feel they are filling. I noticed around here, at least where I live specifically, there arent really that many, said Maddy Dutko, of Maddy Makes. Ive seen a couple that sell honey or some that sell flowers, but I havent really seen any that sell baked goods. I was like, why not? Its a way for me to connect with people around here. Maybe bring them something that they didnt know was necessarily in their community. Dutkos stand, at 623 Sanatoga Rd. in East Coventry Township, is open on the weekends from spring to fall. Dutko sells bread loaves, coffee cakes, cinnamon buns, cookies, and dry mixes for pancakes or cornbread. She tries to keep things fresh and interesting, but also consistent for loyal customers. Dutko, 29, also sells orders online and at markets. The physical presence has led to customers hiring her to bake for kids birthdays, or people approaching her at markets to tell her they always stop by for a treat when they end their walk on a nearby trail. Theres something to be said for products baked with love in someones home, Jacqueline Spain said. On a recent Friday afternoon in Willistown, the Spains stocked the baskets of their cart with baggies of cookies, breads, and dog treats a customer request that their daughter, a veterinary nurse, fulfilled. A red open flag commenced their weekend hours of noon-? People pulled up onto the lawn to shop. Its feel-good, its warm, its friendly, its inviting, Jacqueline Spain said. Its that home-sweet-home comfort food. C. Alfred "Chief" Anderson (right) trains fellow Tuskegee Airman Erwin B. Lawrence. Despite the Tuskegee Airmen's flight skills and renown, after the war, none was hired by a commercial airline, writes Paul L. Newsman. Read more One cannot truly claim to understand American history without knowing African American history, and without understanding Americas complete history, were condemned to repeat past mistakes. The recent removal of the slavery exhibit at the Presidents House made me realize that there were forces at work actively trying to erase uncomfortable truths about Americas history. Advertisement With that recent obfuscation in mind and in celebration of Black History Month Id like to introduce readers to some little-known history from Philadelphia during World War II. Discrimination decades ago in Philadelphia is not to be confused with racial murder in Philadelphia, Miss. However, to understand current race-related issues, we must acknowledge that whatever violence was inflicted on African Americans down south, equally insidious behavior took place in Northern cities like Philadelphia. Although the Fair Employment Practices Committee barred racial discrimination during World War II, Chesters Sun Shipyard maintained a 5,000-plus man segregated shipyard, which company officials claimed was needed to limit racial strife. Philadelphias newspapers legally listed nonfederal defense job openings and apartment rentals by race. Newsreels and movies about the iconic battles of Guadalcanal, Saipan, the Bulge, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa almost never featured any Black servicemen, but they were there. On D-Day, Overbrook High grad Waverly B. Woodson Jr., a Black combat medic who, despite being wounded, treated over 200 soldiers at an Omaha Beach field dressing station. After toiling for over 30 straight hours and being completely exhausted, he resuscitated three soldiers who had nearly drowned in the frigid waters off the English Channel. In 1943, Milton R. Henry, a Philadelphia Tuskegee pilot, got into a confrontation with an armed white Montgomery, Ala., bus driver over being forced to sit in the back of a bus. Henry might have been murdered if not for the quick intervention of several white English pilots. In 1944, a racist Durham, N.C., bus driver murdered Pvt. Booker T. Spicely in cold blood. They had had words over Spicelys initial choice of a bus seat. The bus driver was tried and quickly acquitted. Spicely lived in Philadelphia with his sister prior to his enlistment. In 1944, racists struck the Philadelphia Transit Co., SEPTAs predecessor, and prevented workers from using trolleys, buses, and subways for several days. Worker absenteeism caused the loss of a million war materiel production hours. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt ordered 5,000 troops to Philadelphia instead of to Europe or the Pacific to restart and guard its transit system. In a top-secret 1945 operation, African American paratroopers fought West Coast forest fires ignited by Japanese balloon bombs. Norristown native Pfc. Malvin L. Brown died during one of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalions firefighting operations. Irrespective of the Tuskegee Airmens flying skills, after the war, none was hired by a commercial airline. Some pilots had received their initial training from Bryn Mawr native C. Alfred Chief Anderson. In March 1941, Anderson flew Eleanor Roosevelt around Tuskegee, Ala., which caused some War Department skeptics to reevaluate their initial hesitancy with Black pilot training. In April 1945, 101 Tuskegee Airmen, including several Philadelphians, were arrested for disobeying an unlawful discriminatory order. The charges were quickly dropped, but administrative reprimands were placed in these officers 201 files. Philadelphia native William T. Coleman, a summa cum laude University of Pennsylvania graduate, interrupted his Harvard Law School studies to serve as an Army Air Force officer. Honorably discharged, he returned to Harvard, graduated first in his class, and clerked for a federal appeals court judge and a U.S. Supreme Court justice. Armed with his very substantial resume and glowing recommendations, he initially moved to New York as no white Philadelphia firm would hire him. Throughout the war, while Philadelphia-based Whitmans Chocolates was producing millions of pounds of Samplers, it was also producing Pickaninny Peppermints, despite protests by the NAACP to remove the offensive slur from the products name. During the war, Philadelphias Woodside Amusement Park allowed Black patrons to ride its rides but barred them from swimming in its pool. Restrictive deed covenants, redlining, and violence limited where Black veterans could use their benefits to purchase homes. Despite an enormous postwar suburban housing boom, nearly all African Americans were restricted to purchasing homes within certain areas of Philadelphia proper. One legacy of the Greatest Generation is the massive intergenerational transfer of accumulated wealth, much of which was created by suburban homeownership. Over the last few years, some politicians have claimed that the United States is not a racist country, that slavery didnt cause the Civil War, and that slavery benefited enslaved people by teaching them useful skills. The ignorance of these 21st-century politicians, who have many followers, makes it imperative that everyone study African American history, not just in February, but all year long. Paul L. Newman is an amateur historian specializing in African American history of the first half of the 20th century. He has created a mini-series docudrama that highlights the events in this essay. Then Mayor-elect Cherelle L. Parker at a news conference in the Mayors Reception Room at City Hall, in Philadelphia on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023. Despite not facing reelection until 2027, Parker's campaign raised nearly $1.7 million last year, campaign finance reports show. Read more Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers campaign raised almost $1.7 million last year despite her not facing reelection until 2027, according to a new campaign finance report. That is the most any Philadelphia mayor has raised during their second year in office since at least the early 2000s, when the citys current ethics and campaign finance rules took effect, according to Parkers campaign. She is also the only mayor in that time frame to avoid a dip in fundraising after her first year in office, when many donors shell out to support the citys new leader. Advertisement READ MORE: Mayor Parker's second year saw big wins and signs of tension The Mayor has strong support from across the City and the region, Aren Platt, the executive director of the mayors campaign committee, People for Parker, said in a written statement. These numbers equate to people investing in her vision as Mayor for the City and supporting the work that she is doing. Her campaign also spent $812,000 in 2025, a huge sum for a nonelection year. Parker entered 2026 with nearly $1.6 million in the bank a significant haul two years out from a municipal election cycle. (For context, Parkers campaign in 2023 raised almost $3.4 million, and spent just over $3.2 million en route to winning the mayors race.) State law gives politicians wide latitude in how they spend their campaign donations beyond traditional election expenses like buying TV ads and printing fliers. Parkers campaign expenditures last year included airfare to Colorado for a mayoral roundtable at the Aspen Institute, and almost $20,000 to cover costs for a constituents funeral. Parkers hefty off-year fundraising is reflective of the increasingly constant and professionalized world of political fundraising in Philadelphia. Local politicians no longer wait until challengers emerge to press donors for cash or host major fundraisers. Philadelphia elections keep getting more expensive, so now all the candidates have professional fundraisers, which means the frequency of their events and calls has risen dramatically as well, said John Hawkins, a City Hall lobbyist. City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, for instance, last year raised about $960,000 and entered 2026 with more than $1.1 million in the bank. Johnson, who, like Parker, will not face reelection until 2027, said he raises money in off years so that he can support other Council members and fund community programs. I am blessed to support 16 other hardworking members of Council, he said Friday. I always support different community initiatives that come before me, individuals always seeking support for a variety of different initiatives. READ MORE: All 17 City Council members may be running for reelection. That would be the first time in at least 75 years. Johnson, a close ally of the mayor, is also seen as a potential contender in the race to succeed Parker, which would happen in 2031 if she wins reelection. Racking up money between now and then could allow him to enter the race in a strong financial position. My focus is being the best City Council president that I can be, Johnson said when asked if he was considering the citys top job. Using the rules to their advantage Philadelphias campaign finance laws rules limit contributions to $3,700 per calendar year from individual donors, and cap political committees and businesses allowed to make political donations at contributions of $14,800 per year. That means incumbents can collect the maximum amount from donors in each of the four years in their terms before running for reelection. That is not possible in federal elections, where contribution limits apply to the entire election cycle. The citys rules give incumbents a potential advantage over new candidates, who typically have the opportunity to raise money over only one or two calendar years after they enter a race. Incumbents do not always maximize that opportunity. But Parker last year set a new standard. She is also among the growing number of Philly elected officials taking advantage of a rule that allows politicians to accept donations larger than the citys contribution limits if they do not spend the excess money on electioneering activities, such as buying ads or paying canvassers to knock on doors. The electricians union, the politically active Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, for instance, gave $50,000 to Parkers campaign in 2025. At most $14,800 of that can be spent on persuading city voters to support Parker during her next campaign. The remaining $35,200 will be deposited into a separate bank account known as a Segregated Pre-candidacy Excess Contribution, or SPEC, account. While SPEC accounts are nothing new, more Philly elected officials are using them. In addition to Parker, at least a half dozen Council members, including Johnson, now have SPEC accounts, said Shane Creamer, executive director of the Philadelphia Board of Ethics. We havent seen this in the lead-up to past elections, certainly not in this number, Creamer said, adding that the trend shows that politicians are being conscientious about the citys rules. I think it suggests that, fundraising aside, theres an effort to comply with the contribution limits. How Parker raises money Parker hosts major fundraising events, such her annual birthday party, which last September took place at the Live! Casino & Hotel. She also calls donors to ask for contributions, and her supporters sometimes host smaller fundraisers to collect money for her campaign. Labor unions gave more than $330,000 to Parker last year, campaign finance reports show. That includes $50,000 from the electricians union, $64,800 from the Carpenters union, and $45,000 from the Laborers District Council. Organized labor especially the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council, the Carpenters union, and Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union fueled Parkers victory in the 2023 mayors race. Campaign finance records also show Parker last year accepted a $10,000 donation from one of her rivals in the 2023 Democratic primary: Jeff Brown, the owner of Browns Super Stores. Were very aligned on policy, and if you look at her campaign promises, she is doing fairly well. Shes made some progress on all of them, said Brown, who serves on the mayors business roundtable and an advisory panel providing input on the citys efforts to revitalize Market East. Im invested in the city, and I want to see a functional, good mayor who can lay out a vision and get things done. Corporate interests also donated heavily to Parker in 2025. Her campaign contributions from law firms last year included $10,000 from Ballard Spahr, $11,000 from Duane Morris, $5,000 from Buchanan Ingersoll, and $11,000 from Cozen OConnor. She also received $5,000 from Comcast, $1,000 from Independence Blue Cross, and $4,700 from the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. Wealthy individuals shelled out big bucks, too. Investor Richard Vague gave $16,000; developer Carl Dranoff contributed $15,000; former Aramark CEO Joseph Neubauer gave $30,000; and Firstrust Bank executive chair Richard J. Green gave $15,000. How Parker spends campaign money Although campaign donors may imagine their contributions pay for yard signs and radio spots, the money also often covers strategy meetings held at expensive restaurants, gifts for constituents, and costs related to officeholders public duties. Elected officials are prohibited from using political donations for personal expenses. But beyond that, the rules for spending campaign cash are famously lax and rarely enforced. Parkers expenditures on the recently filed reports included a $1,200 tab at Vernick Fish, and 14 more modest purchases from Shanghai Gourmet in Chinatown, totaling $424. In addition to the Aspen Institute roundtable, Parkers campaign helped her pay for trips to Miami for a tour of wellness and homeless centers that are part of the Florida judicial system, to Marthas Vineyard, Mass., for a Black Economic Alliance gathering, to Puerto Rico for a National League of Cities event, and to Harvard Universitys Bloomberg Center for Cities. The campaign paid $112,000 in consulting fees for ALP Impact Strategies, Platts firm; and $30,000 to 215 Bears, the private security company owned by Shawntee Willis, whom Parker has hired as a special assistant in the mayors office and who works closely with her police detail. It also paid $158,563.73 to Rittenhouse Political Partners, the fundraising firm founded by well-known political consultant Aubrey Montgomery and used by Parker, Johnson, and five other members of Council who saw large fundraising hauls last year. Rittenhouses clients include some of the most aggressive off-year fundraisers in Philly politics and some of the most prominent adopters of SPEC accounts. Montgomery declined to comment. Staff writer Anna Orso contributed to this article. City Council President Kenyatta Johnson gavels in a Council meeting in December 2024. The Council president said his members have serious concerns with the school facilities plan presented by Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. last month. Read more Philadelphias top lawmaker said hes willing to hold up city funding to the Philadelphia School District over concerns about the recently released closure and consolidation plan, a warning that signals City Council intends to leverage its biggest bargaining chip as members fight to keep schools in their neighborhoods open. City Council President Kenyatta Johnson said in an interview Friday that multiple members oppose proposed closures in their districts, and some want more robust investments in schools slated for consolidation in exchange for their support. Advertisement Johnsons primary concern, he said, is making sure that the issues and concerns that we would like to see addressed with the facilities plan are reflected in the final recommendations. Asked if hed be willing to hold up the citys contribution to the school district if their concerns are not met, Johnson said: If need be. Schools Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. has proposed sweeping changes to schools across the city, including closing 20 schools, ordering six others to share buildings, and modernizing 159 buildings. His plan is subject to approval by the school board, which will likely vote sometime this winter. Johnsons public insistence that Council members exercise veto power over parts of the districts long-awaited facilities master plan is notable, and it raises the stakes ahead of a Feb. 17 hearing, during which every Council member will have the opportunity to question district officials about the proposal. The Council president a Democrat who is typically even-keeled and does not often speak publicly about legislative strategies wields significant control over the fate of the city budget, which members must pass by the end of June. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker will unveil her proposed budget in March. Local revenue and city funding made up about 40% of the districts budget this year, or nearly $2 billion. Most of that is the districts share of city property taxes which, unlike other school systems in Pennsylvania, are levied by the city and then distributed to the district. In addition, the city makes a separate, direct contribution to the district, which this year was nearly $285 million. READ MORE: Proposed Philly school closures would disproportionately impact Black students Johnsons opposition to elements of the plan could also position lawmakers somewhat at odds with Parker and Watlington. The pair have operated in lockstep since Watlington last month unveiled his proposal. The plan did not appear to go over well in Council, with several members expressing immediate concerns. The day the plan was released publicly, Johnson endorsed another members legislation to amend the citys governing document and grant Council power to remove members of the school board at will. Some Council members said they plan to fight proposed closures and advocate for more investment in struggling schools. Speaking at a meeting at Lankenau High School in Upper Roxborough last week, Councilmember Cindy Bass pushed back against the notion of closing Lankenau, a well-regarded magnet outside of her district, and other strong schools, including Fitler Academics Plus and Parkway Northwest in her district. When budget time comes up, Ill be asking about these decisions that the school district is making, Bass, a Democrat who represents parts of North and Northwest Philadelphia, told an emotional crowd of more than 100. We dont support them and we dont understand them. They have not been rationalized. READ MORE: Whats happening to your Philly school under the proposed facilities master plan? At Conwell Middle School in Kensington, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, a Democrat who represents the neighborhood, said she was having a really hard time understanding how the decisions were made. Closing Conwell, a magnet school whose enrollment has fallen to just over 100 because of parent concerns over neighborhood safety, was particularly galling, Lozada said. We are saying to these families, We are punishing them because, as a city, we cant respond to the public safety issues that we have on the outside, Lozada said. And that is just not fair. Johnson said he wanted to see a clear safety plan for students being asked to travel to schools in new neighborhoods. He also floated rebuilding consolidated schools as all-in-one campuses that are co-located with parks, recreation centers, and other city services. It would be in the best interest of the school district and the school board to think outside the box in terms of how they move forward, besides just saying, Were going to be closing down schools, Johnson said. And those are conversations that were having right now. President Donald Trump did not explain why Democratic governors were not invited to the meeting. Read more President Donald Trump plans to keep Democrats out of a traditionally bipartisan White House gathering of governors typically held as part of the National Governors Associations annual Washington summit, the organization said. According to the governors offices, the president also revoked invitations sent to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D), the NGAs vice chair; and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) to attend a second White House event scheduled to occur around the summit: a dinner for governors. Advertisement This week, I learned that I was uninvited to this years National Governors Association dinner a decades-long annual tradition meant to bring governors from both parties together to build bonds and celebrate a shared service to our citizens with the President of the United States, Moore said in a statement Sunday. Its hard not to see this decision as another example of blatant disrespect and a snub to the spirit of bipartisan federal-state partnership. Moore told CNNs State of the Union on Sunday that he was confused by the White Houses decision, saying that, just a few weeks ago, he led a bipartisan group of governors who met with the president as Trump signed a memorandum on bringing down energy costs. Moore also said on CNN that it was not lost on him that he is the only Black governor of a state. I find that to be particularly painful, considering the fact that the president is trying to exclude me from an organization that not only my peers have asked me to help to lead, but then also a place where I know I belong in, he said. Im never in a room because of someones benevolence nor kindness. Im not in a room because of a social experiment. Im in the room because I belong there and the room was incomplete until I got there. Spokespeople for Polis, as well as representatives of the Democratic Governors Association, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. While Moore and Polis were excluded from the dinner with Trump, some Democrats remained invited to the gathering. The White House did not explain why Democratic governors were not invited to the meeting with Trump, and a spokesperson did not respond to a request to provide a list of Democrats who were invited to the dinner. Trump has frequently clashed with Moore and Polis, and his decision comes after months of conflict between the federal government and Democratic governors. Moore has condemned the presidents threat to deploy the National Guard to Baltimore and defund Marylands efforts to replace the fallen Key Bridge. Trump has also repeatedly claimed that Baltimore is crime ridden despite the fact that the city is experiencing its lowest homicide rate in 50 years. Polis and Trump have repeatedly feuded over Tina Peters, a former county clerk in Colorado who was convicted in state court on felony charges related to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Polis has defended the conviction and refused the White Houses request to transfer Peters to a federal prison. Because of this, in December, Trump in a Truth Social post called Polis a scumbag and said he should rot in Hell. The NGAs Washington meetings are expected to take place Feb. 19 to 21. The organization said Friday that the White House meeting will no longer be part of the associations official schedule. In a statement Friday, Brandon Tatum, the interim CEO of the NGA, said that the bipartisan White House governors meeting is an important tradition, and we are disappointed in the administrations decision to make it a partisan occasion this year. To disinvite individual governors to the White House sessions undermines an important opportunity for federal-state collaboration, Tatum said. At this moment in our nations history, it is critical that institutions continue to stand for unity, dignity and constructive engagement. A rendering of the Jewish day school proposed for the 500 block of South Eighth Street. Read more A long vacant parking garage at 510-28 S. Eighth St. sits between some of Philadelphias most desirable neighborhoods, and Rabbi Yochonon Goldman hopes it could soon be the site of Center Citys only Jewish day school. It all depends on how the Zoning Board of Adjustment rules. Advertisement The four-story, almost 36,000-square-foot plan for the building is the third iteration of the proposed K-8 school. Goldman, who is rabbi of Bnai Abraham Chabad, and developer Masada Custom Builders are seeking neighborhood support for the project. The proposal has stirred controversy for its height, size, and the inclusion of several apartments. The project needs seven variances from the citys Zoning Board of Adjustment, largely because the garage is zoned for multifamily rowhouse development, just like most of the surrounding blocks. The plan is more likely to succeed at a zoning hearing if it has the support of local neighborhood groups, chiefly the Washington Square West Civic Association. I truly believe that this educational institution will enhance our neighborhood, Goldman said at a neighborhood meeting last week. It will be a tremendous asset to all residents of the neighborhood, whether youre Jewish or not. Goldmans synagogue runs a successful nearby pre-kindergarten program at the synagogue on 527 Lombard St., and many parents are frustrated by the lack of a Jewish elementary school in the area. But the Lombard Mews homeowners association, which borders the site to the west, has organized to negotiate with the development team and hired veteran zoning attorney Paul Boni. Immediate neighbors say they are most concerned with the proposed buildings size and height, which in early iterations was five stories. They are skeptical of plans to build three apartments on top of the school, saying the apartments would bulk up the structure. Speakers from Lombard Mews included Aren Platt, who served as one of Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers top advisers during her election campaign and the first year of her administration. He reiterated that his neighbors chief concern was with height and size, not the idea of a school in this location. Two of the apartments above the school would be small studios for interns who join the faculty and will need affordable nearby residences. The largest would be for the rabbis family: a bi-level condo with a private elevator and roof deck. At the meeting, the design team noted that the current version of the building is 52 feet, down from over 70 feet originally. The team reduced the ceiling height of each floor and eliminated one story from the plans. Still, critics argued against the apartments especially given that the classrooms have shrunk to meet neighbor demands but the living units remained intact. Were puzzled as to why the proposal includes three luxury dwelling units on the top, Boni said at the meeting. Eliminating that square footage would seem to go a long way toward meeting our requested building envelope. Goldman argues that the apartments atop the school are essential to the projects success. A rabbis home is not just a private residence; its a communal space which builds strong relationships among community members who become like an extended family, sharing meals with the rabbis family, Goldman said in an email. Its all part of the educational model which we envision for the school. Goldman also says that having a responsible and active presence on site 24/7 will be a positive for the school building. But most important to him, the close proximity will aid in the religious practice of his community. This space is not just a home. It is a vehicle for hospitality and connection, he said. Beyond the academics offered in the classroom, the school is a place where the values of Judaism come to life." Some opponents thought the school should be rejected entirely for its attempt to bypass the propertys zoning. The proposal provides only 12 parking spaces, while the zoning requires twice that, and a roof deck is not allowed under current land-use rules. Regarding parking and potential congestion from the plan a fear expressed by some nearby small business owners the development team said their traffic study showed that 50% to 60% of students would walk to school, as they already do to the pre-K program. Supporters noted that many Jewish families who do not drive on Shabbat and certain holidays would prefer to live within walking distance to school. Right now, we have 75 kids, and at least 60 from those kids are walking, said Isaac Ohayon of Masada Custom Builders. They live in the neighborhood. Theyre all no more than 10 to 15 blocks away. The Washington Square West Civic Association will vote Tuesday on whether to support or oppose the project when it goes before the zoning board March 4. President Donald Trump is demanding a $1 billion payment from Harvard University to end his prolonged standoff with the Ivy League campus, doubling the amount he sought previously as both sides appear to move further from reaching a deal. The president raised the stakes on social media Monday night, saying Harvard has been behaving very badly. He said the university must pay the government directly as part of any deal something Harvard has opposed and that his administration wants nothing further to do with Harvard in the future. Trumps comments on Truth Social came in response to a New York Times report saying the president had dropped his demand for a financial payment, lowering the bar for a deal. Trump denied he was backing down. Harvard officials did not immediately comment. Firmly Entrenched Trumps outburst appears to leave both sides firmly entrenched in a conflict that Trump previously said was nearing an end. Last June, Trump said a deal was just days away and that Harvard had acted extremely appropriately during negotiations. He later said an agreement was being finalized that would require Harvard to put $500 million toward the creation of a series of trade schools rather than a payment to the government. That deal appears to have fallen apart entirely. In his social media post, Trump said the trade school proposal had been turned down because it was convoluted and wholly inadequate. Trump Target Harvard has long been Trumps top target in his administrations campaign to bring the nations most prestigious universities to heel. His officials have cut billions of dollars in Harvards federal research funding and attempted to block it from enrolling foreign students after the campus rebuffed a series of government demands last April. The White House has said its punishing Harvard for tolerating anti-Jewish bias on campus. In a pair of lawsuits, Harvard said its being unfairly penalized for refusing to adopt the administrations views. A federal judge agreed in December, reversing the funding cuts and calling the antisemitism argument a smokescreen. Trumps latest escalation comes as other parts of his higher education campaign are teetering. Legal Defense Last fall, the White House invited nine universities to join a compact that offered funding priority in exchange for adopting Trumps agenda. None of the schools accepted. In January, the administration abandoned its legal defense of an Education Department document threatening to cut schools funding over diversity, equity and inclusion policies. When he took office for his second term, Trump made it a priority to go after elite universities that he said had been overrun by liberal thinking and anti-Jewish bias. His officials have frozen huge sums of research funding, which colleges have come to rely on for scientific and medical research. Several universities have reached agreements with the White House to restore funding. Some deals have included direct payments to the government, including $200 million from Columbia University. Brown University agreed to pay $50 million toward state workforce development groups. The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. Top Photo: FILE People take photos near a John Harvard statue, left, on the Harvard University campus, Jan. 2, 2024, in Cambridge, Mass. r. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. China's hosting of APEC meeting to boost regional cooperation, global growth: official Xinhua) 08:04, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- China's hosting of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting will inject strong momentum into regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, and provide greater certainty, stability and positive energy for global economic growth and international cooperation, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said in an interview with Xinhua. This year marks the APEC "China Year," with the theme of "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together." China will host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in November. "This theme has garnered unanimous support and broad backing from APEC economies," Ma said. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is the highest-level economic cooperation mechanism that enjoys the broadest scope and the most significant influence in the Asia-Pacific region, Ma told Xinhua. The fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China held in last October pointed out that the world today is beset with changes and disturbances, with turmoil continuing to mount, unilateralism and protectionism on the rise, and the international economic and trade order facing grave challenges, Ma said. He further noted that the Asia-Pacific region stands at a crossroads, while international cooperation faces a critical moment of either advancement or regression. Against this backdrop, China's role as the host of 2026 APEC meeting carries significance that extends far beyond APEC itself, and even beyond the Asia-Pacific region, he said. As a driver in regional cooperation, a defender of multilateralism, and a major engine of the global economy, China's hosting of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting fully demonstrates its sense of responsibility as a major country, Ma pointed out. "This will not only inject strong impetus into Asia-Pacific regional cooperation, but also provide greater certainty, stability, and positive momentum for global economic growth and international collaboration," Ma said. Noting the 2026 APEC "China Year" coincides with the inaugural year of China's 15th Five-Year Plan, during which the country will further deepen reforms and expand opening-up, Ma said that as the host of APEC meeting, China will play a leading role in shaping regional economic integration and advancing the development of an Asia-Pacific community. The vision to build an Asia-Pacific community must be translated into tangible actions, Ma stated, adding that for the 2026 APEC "China Year," openness, innovation and cooperation are three priorities. "Openness" refers to fostering an open economy, opposing protectionism, and promoting trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, Ma said. He added that "innovation" means upholding an innovation-driven development model, advancing new quality productive forces, and creating new growth drivers for APEC cooperation. "Cooperation" is about leveraging the comparative strengths of APEC economies, enhancing policy synergy and experience exchanges to achieve mutual benefit, he added. "These priorities have received broad endorsement from APEC economies," Ma said. This year also marks China's third time hosting APEC meeting. Chen Xu, chair of the 2026 APEC Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM), said that in 2001 and 2014, China hosted APEC meetings, leaving an indelible mark on APEC's history. China has actively participated in practical cooperation across various fields under the APEC framework, and joined hands with all parties to foster an open economy in the Asia-Pacific, Chen said in a separate interview with Xinhua. Chen said that China will host approximately 300 related activities throughout the year, including SOMs and ministerial meetings. China is holding the first SOM and related meetings in Guangzhou from Feb. 1 to 10. Chen noted that the SOM serves as the main channel for advancing APEC cooperation and preparing deliverables for the Leaders' Meeting. This year, except for the first one in Guangzhou, SOM meetings will also be held in Shanghai in May and Dalian in August, Chen said. Chen added that from May to October this year, ten thematic ministerial meetings will be organized by relevant Chinese authorities in places including Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, Hong Kong and Macao. "These meetings will cover a wide range of fields such as energy, transportation, the digital economy, food security, human resources, trade, finance, tourism, small and medium-sized enterprises, and women's affairs," Chen added. "Preparations for the 2026 APEC meetings are in full swing, with all tasks progressing smoothly," Chen said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Chinese New Year Gala in Kenya highlights call for closer cultural exchange Xinhua) 14:14, February 09, 2026 People make handicraft works at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Liu Qiong) NAIROBI, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. Rebecca Miano, Kenya's cabinet secretary for tourism and wildlife, said celebrations marking the Chinese New Year provide an opportunity for the local community to immerse themselves in the richness of Chinese culture, arts and heritage. "Celebrating the Spring Festival uplifts the human spirit while fostering cross-cultural understanding, harmony, respect and renewal," Miano said. Her remarks were delivered by John Ololtuaa, principal secretary of the State Department of Tourism in Kenya's Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. Highlighting the longstanding bonds between Kenya and China, Miano said that the two countries share a past and future defined by mutual respect, friendship, cultural exchanges and win-win economic partnerships across diverse sectors such as tourism. Guo Haiyan, the Chinese ambassador to Kenya, said the Spring Festival reflects the Chinese people's pursuit of harmony between humanity and nature, as well as goodwill among all. "Spring Festival has become a global cultural event that brings joy to people worldwide," Guo said, adding that nearly 20 countries recognize it as an official holiday, and about one-fifth of the world's population in nearly 200 countries and regions celebrate the Lunar New Year in various forms. She said Chinese and African civilizations have long inspired each other and laid a solid foundation for enduring friendship. "Today's Chinese New Year Gala is a vivid example of profound communication and exchanges between the two sides," she said. The year 2026 has been designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. "Cultural dialogue and mutual learning have always been vital forces for human progress and peace," Guo added. A woman takes photos as she watches a performance with her son at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) People take photos at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) Children from a Chinese dance group pose for a photo at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) People look at Chinese New Year decorations at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People make handicraft works at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People watch a Chinese suona performance at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Dancers perform at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Liu Qiong) People perform a Yangge dance at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People watch a dance performance at the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 8, 2026. Kenya on Sunday celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year Gala in Nairobi, bringing together dignitaries including senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and hundreds of local and foreign visitors. The day-long event, held at Two Rivers Mall, featured cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances, contemporary music, and showcases of Chinese costumes and cuisine. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) TikTok was charged on Friday with breaching EU online content rules over what the blocs regulator said were its addictive features and was told to change the design of its app or risk a fine of as much as 6% of owner ByteDances global turnover. The EU watchdogs charges focus on TikToks addictive design which includes features such as infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and its highly personalized recommender system. TikTok, whose algorithm is driven by the understanding of a users interest and has been key to the social media apps global success, criticized the European Commission charges. Read more: Move to Ban Social Media for Kids Gains Traction Across Europe The regulatory move underscores the European Unions crackdown on Big Tech which has drawn criticism from the U.S. government over censorship and led to threats of tariffs. The Commission set out its charges after a year-long investigation under the Digital Services Act (DSA) which requires large online platforms to do more to tackle illegal and harmful content. The Commissions preliminary findings present a categorically false and entirely meritless depiction of our platform, and we will take whatever steps are necessary to challenge these findings, a TikTok spokesperson said. The Commission, which acts as the EU tech enforcer, cited the platforms generation of new content to constantly reward users which fuels the urge to keep scrolling and shift users brains into autopilot mode as an example of an addictive feature. The EU regulator said TikTok did not adequately assess how these features could harm the physical and mental wellbeing of its users, including children and vulnerable adults. It accused TikTok of disregarding important indicators of compulsive use of the app, such as the time that minors spend on it at night and the frequency with which users open the app. The EU watchdog said TikTok seems to fail to implement reasonable, proportionate and effective measures such as screen time management tools and parental control tools to mitigate risks and it needs to change the basic design. Change Addictive Features So now we are expecting after that TikTok has to take actions and they have to change the design of their service in Europe to protect our minors, EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen told reporters. The Commission suggested TikTok disable its infinite scroll over time, implement effective screen time breaks, including during the night and adapt its recommender system. Virkkunen said investigations into other online platforms were advancing well and that decisions are expected in the next weeks and months, without naming any company. Meta Platforms Facebook and Instagram were charged with DSA breaches in October last year over their so-called dark patterns or deceptive interface designs among others. EU regulators also asked Snapchat, YouTube, Apple and Google for information on their age verification systems and how they prevent minors from accessing illegal products and harmful material. The step comes as some European countries, including France and Spain, as well as India consider banning social media access for teenagers in a sign of hardening attitudes towards the technology that some say is designed to be addictive. In December, Australia became the worlds first country to block children under 16 from platforms including TikTok, Alphabets YouTube and Metas Instagram and Facebook. Virkkunen reiterated that it is up to individual countries to set age limits, rather than centrally from Brussels. But of course when we look at digital markets, it would be good to have a common approach here, she said, noting the differences between member states on how services are used. EU lawmaker Alexandra Geese praised the EU move on TikTok. Many social media platforms ruthlessly exploit these (addictive) mechanisms to boost advertising revenue at the expense of the health of children and teenagers. This must come to an end, she said in a statement. TikTok can ask to see the Commissions documents and provide a written response before the watchdog issues a decision. Last month, the social media app settled a social media addiction lawsuit ahead of a trial against Meta and YouTube. TikTok last year settled charges of infringing a DSA requirement to publish an advertisement repository allowing researchers and users to detect scam advertisements. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Alexander Smith) The European Union is set to relax emissions-reduction rules for thousands of companies, recalibrating the worlds most rigorous carbon market under pressure from industry and governments concerned about the regions sinking competitiveness. Before a summit of EU leaders next week on strengthening the blocs economy, talks are heating up on reforming the Emissions Trading System, a key tool to curb greenhouse gases. Less than three years after tightening the market in a green push, governments are ready to slow the pace of pollution cuts and consider measures that would alleviate industry costs, according to EU policymakers and diplomats with knowledge of the issue. The details of the planned overhaul, which will impact supply and demand in the market, are due to be unveiled by the European Commission in the third quarter of this year and are expected to trigger intense negotiations among governments. Slovakias Prime Minister Robert Fico has already called for a suspension of the ETS and his Czech counterpart Andrej Babis wants steps to curb price swings. Carbon futures fell as much as 4.6% on Thursday, to the lowest since Nov. 10. The EU narrative has shifted from aspirational targets to implementation and execution, from idealism to pragmatism, said Ingo Ramming, head of carbon markets at Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA in Madrid. With the EU reassessing its long-standing partnership with the US, trying to stave off increasing competition from China and seeking to boost defense spending following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the ambitious green transition has slipped down the political agenda. The broad consensus on climate action that prevailed five years ago has fractured, giving way to trade protectionism and policies that prioritize lowering energy costs. While in December EU negotiators agreed a new interim goal to slash emissions by 90% by 2040 from 1990 levels, they also signaled that 10,000 installations in the ETS should have more time to decarbonize. That will avoid the caps dropping to zero in 2039 under the current design of the cap-and-trade system, one of the key guidelines for the forthcoming market reform. Irresponsible Attacks All the attacks on the ETS to destroy it or put it on hold are completely irresponsible, Peter Liese, a German member of the EPP the biggest political group in the EU Parliament said in an interview. But changes are needed and we can ease the pressure for companies without risking our climate targets. The commission declined to comment on the details of the overhaul. The rising political sensitivity to carbon prices has been highlighted in the December talks on the 2040 climate goal, when the EU agreed to postpone the start of a new carbon market for road transport and heating fuels. The focus is now turning to preventing a spike in prices in the existing cap-and-trade program, where analysts see benchmark carbon contracts rising to as high as 400 euros ($472) per ton by 2040 compared with the current level of around 82 euros. For Jos Delbeke, a former senior climate official at the commission and one of the architects of the ETS, the market should be part of a well-designed industrial policy that avoids prohibitive emissions prices. As market liquidity will shrink in line with the declining cap, the risk of price spikes may increase, Delbeke, currently professor at the European University Institute in Florence, said in an interview. His recommendations for the reform include managing the supply of allowances to moderate prices, with an option of creating an implicit price corridor, at least for analytical purposes. That would also involve fine-tuning a special tool that automatically adjusts the supply of permits in the market and recalibrating the pace of annual emission cuts. System Overhaul How fast emission caps will shrink in the coming years is determined by the Linear Reduction Factor, a key indicator that almost doubled to 4.3% from 2024 as part of the European Green Deal and is due to rise further to 4.4% starting in 2028. While some policymakers do not rule out lowering the factor before 2030, the legislative process of overhauling the system will take at least two years, limiting the choice of short-term measures to prevent price increases. To remedy that, Delbeke said the EU could use about 370 million free allowances parked in a special buffer to hand them out to companies as support of low-carbon investments. While most allowances in the market are sold at auctions, companies at risk or relocating their production to countries with laxer climate policies still get some permits for free. Their allocation is based on a system of emissions efficiency benchmarks, which rewards the cleanest producers. The commission, which is next due to publish revised benchmarks in April, is already under pressure from the chemical industry to freeze the indicators. The issue of how many free permits emitters will get in the coming years is one of the biggest sticking points in the debate. Its also linked to the introduction of a carbon border tax, which will involve the EU gradually walking away from free allowances in the sectors covered. In the deal on the 2040 climate law in December, policy makers have already signaled they want the phaseout pathway to be slower. European climate and energy policies are set to be among the issues discussed by the EU leaders at their informal gathering in Belgium on Feb. 12. During a meeting of ambassadors in the run-up to the summit, countries including Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania and Poland signaled concerns that carbon prices undermine EU competitiveness, according to people with knowledge of the matter. If we dont change anything before 2030, some industries covered by the ETS may not see the day, Krzysztof Bolesta, Polands deputy climate minister, told Bloomberg News. Photograph: A steelworks in Germany; photo credit: Alex Kraus/Bloomberg Copyright 2026 Bloomberg. Topics Europe Pricing Trends The UK, Ireland and the Netherlands joined a wave of European nations issuing recalls of Danone SA infant formula as the French companys exposure to the contamination crisis deepens. Some batches of Danones Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula brands will be taken off shelves in the UK and Ireland, according to statements on Friday from food safety agencies there. Dutch authorities said some Nutrilon products will be pulled over concerns they are contaminated with the toxin cereulide. It comes after Austria, Germany, France and Switzerland announced recalls adding up to hundreds of batches on Thursday. AFP reported that recalls are under way in Romania, Hungary and Poland too. Shares of Danone fell as much as 4% in Paris on Friday. The stock was down 6.5% so far this year through Thursdays close. The recalls are the largest yet for Danone and could be a bigger financial hit than previously expected. Bloomberg Intelligences Duncan Fox said in a note the estimated cost of recalls could far exceed the 50 million originally projected. The damage from Danones UK infant formula recall can be more reputational than financial if consumers decide to change brands due to the news, he wrote. The growing global formula contamination crisis has also ensnared Nestle SA and Groupe Lactalis. More callbacks were expected after European food safety authorities recommended new lower toxin levels for European nations earlier this week. Precautionary Danone began recalling select batches of product in mid-January, starting in Singapore. The company later issued another larger recall following a change in toxin guidance from Irish food safety authorities. In a statement, Danone said it initiated a precautionary recall process of specific batches of products on January 23rd and we have implemented additional ingredient controls. It didnt specifically mention the latest recalls in the different European countries. The contamination originated from arachidonic acid oil, which is often added to infant formula. While no company has stated the source of the contamination, the supplier has since been identified as Chinas Cabio Biotech Wuhan Co. Nestle first discovered the potential contamination of formula batches with cereulide which causes vomiting and diarrhea and alerted trade groups in December. More than 60 countries are now recalling products and French authorities are still investigating a possible link between Nestles Guigoz formula and the deaths of two babies. UK health authorities said Thursday that 36 babies may have become ill after consuming contaminated formula. No children have died in the UK. While baby formula is a tightly regulated industry, it has faced contamination scares, factory shutdowns and supply shocks in recent years issues that led to the 2022 US shortage tied to Abbott Laboratories. US investigators plan to test certain dairy-based ingredients used in a wide variety of baby formulas for spores that can cause infant botulism, in the wake of the ByHeart recall last year that was connected to 51 infant hospitalizations. Photograph: Bottles of Danone SA Aptamil formula baby milk. Photo credit: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg Related: Copyright 2026 Bloomberg. U.S.-listed South Korean e-commerce company Coupang confirmed on Thursday [Feb. 5] that the data of an additional 165,000 users was leaked in a major security breach, which a South Korean government official said had shaken the countrys alliance with the U.S. Coupang Korea has been under a South Korean government probe over the leak last year of personal data affecting more than 33 million customers, which has created friction between the allies over trade and security ties. Coupang said on Thursday it had identified additional customers affected by Novembers leak, which involved contact details, including names, phone numbers and addresses. No payment details or login information were compromised and users have been notified as per government guidance, it said in a statement. Coupang Korea, operated by Coupang Inc. and which generates most of the parent companys revenue, has faced a public and lawmaker backlash following the disclosure of last years leak. The breach, affecting two-thirds of the South Korean population, has triggered wide-ranging police and regulatory investigations and lawsuits against the company as well as complaints from U.S. investors and lawmakers that an American company was being targeted with discriminatory actions. Coupang is also facing a tax audit in South Korea and a legal complaint filed by the countrys parliament against its founder and former executives. Wi Sung-lac, the South Korean presidential national security adviser, said the Coupang issue is affecting a range of key trade and security matters between the allies, in an interview with the Kyunghyang daily published on Thursday. Trumps decision to hike tariffs on South Korean goods to 25% from 15% was linked to the Coupang matter and several other issues Washington is focusing on, including a South Korean move to tighten regulation against digital platform operators that could affect U.S. firms. We have set up ties with the U.S., China and Japan but one pillar of that is being shaken by the talk of raising tariffs, Wi said. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has called for tough penalties for negligence over data breaches, saying the Coupang leak should serve as a wake-up call. (Reporting by Kyu-seok Shim and Jack Kim; editing by Bernadette Baum and Sharon Singleton) Related: Topics USA Jurors have awarded $8.3 million to the family of a Kansas foster teen who died in 2021 after he was held facedown for 39 minutes in a juvenile intake center while in the throes of a mental health crisis. Five juvenile officers in Sedgwick County either used excessive force on Cedric C.J. Lofton or failed to intervene, the jurors decided Wednesday after a trial in federal court in Wichita. John Marrese, an attorney for Loftons brother and the estate, said Thursday that he was pleased that jurors rejected arguments that the death stemmed from excited delirium, a controversial diagnosis discredited by major medical associations. Critics say it was often used to justify excessive force by police. Its a good development in the world of prolonged prone restraint in terms of a jury acknowledging how dangerous it is and the fact that it can be fatal, Marrese said. Sedgwick County, which employed the officers named in the suit, said in a news release Wednesday that it was reviewing the verdict and discussing next steps. Lofton died in a hospital on Sept. 26, 2021, just one day before his 18th birthday. The final autopsy declared his death a homicide. But Marc Bennett, the district attorney, said in the months that followed that the states stand-your-ground law prevented him from pursuing charges of involuntary manslaughter because staff members were protecting themselves. Loftons mental health deteriorated after he traveled to Texas for his grandmothers funeral, with the teen telling a foster brother that he thought his classmates were murderous robots, Bennett wrote in a report. Loftons foster father drove him to a mental health provider, but the teen ran off. When Lofton returned home at 1 a.m. the following day, the foster father called Wichita police, the report said. Officers then spent nearly an hour trying to persuade Lofton to let them take him to a mental hospital, body camera video showed. But the 5-foot-10, 135-pound (1.7-meter, 61-kilogram) teenager refused to budge. Ultimately, officers decided to take him forcibly, restraining him in something called the WRAP, a device comprised of a locking shoulder harness, leg restraints and ankle straps. A sergeant then determined he was too combative to go to the hospital, so officers transported him to the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center instead, the report showed. After the WRAP restraint was removed, Lofton scuffled with staff, who shackled Loftons ankles and put him on his stomach on the floor. Paramedics rushed to the facility after staff noticed he wasnt breathing, but he died two days later. Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Kansas Columbus, Ohio-based Nationwide announced Feb. 5 that it entered into an agreement to acquire the renewal rights for surety and fidelity bonds issued by Main Street America Insurance, a unit of American Family Insurance. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Nationwide said in a written statement that the acquisition expands its commitment to businesses and contractors, and that the addition of Main Street Americas capabilities and employees creates new opportunities for growth and innovation. The two companies expect to close the agreement by the end of the first quarter, subject to customary closing conditions. Nationwides strength and stability have always been at the core of who we are. This acquisition allows us to build on that foundation by enhancing our Surety and Fidelity offerings and delivering even more value to our agents and customers, said Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker, who also highlighted the companies shared commitment to service and reliability. Candy Embray, Main Street America president said, Main Street America has a strong reputation for partnering with agents to deliver pragmatic risk management solutions, which aligns with Nationwides approach. Together, we are working to ensure a seamless transition for our valued agency partners. Russ Johnston, president of commercial lines, Excess & Surplus, Specialty at Nationwide added, Our surety business continues to be an area of strategic growth for us. Agents can expect the same level of service and stability theyve come to trust, now backed by Nationwides scale, resources and financial strength. Source: Nationwide Topics Mergers & Acquisitions A federal appeals court on Friday rejected a challenge to a move by President Donald Trumps administration to ban diversity, equity and inclusion programs at federal agencies and businesses with government contracts. A three-judge panel of the Richmond, Virginia-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned an injunction that would have blocked Trumps administration from implementing executive orders he signed shortly after taking office last year aimed at eliminating DEI programming in the government and private sector. The court in March 2025, at the administrations urging, put on hold that preliminary injunction, which had been issued by Baltimore-based U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson, while it weighed the governments appeal. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson, in a statement, called the ruling a big win, adding that the administration has proudly put an end to unlawful DEI discrimination in the federal government. FURTHER CHALLENGES POSSIBLE Skye Perryman, whose liberal legal group Democracy Forward represented the plaintiffs, noted the ruling left open the ability for further challenges to how Trumps orders are implemented. We are looking forward to continuing to litigate this case in the district court, she said in a statement. Abelsons ruling came in a lawsuit by the city of Baltimore, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education and the American Association of University Professors. They challenged provisions of Trumps executive orders that directed federal agencies to eliminate DEI programs, require government contractors and grant recipients to certify that they do not operate them, and work with the Justice Department to take measures to deter DEI programs and investigate companies with such policies. Abelson had concluded Trumps directives likely violate the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment free speech protections and impose vague standards that fail to comply with the Fifth Amendments due process requirements. But U.S. Circuit Judge Albert Diaz, writing for Fridays panel, said Trumps directives could not be challenged head-on, saying they could instead be challenged based on how agencies apply them to specific grant recipients. President Trump has decided that equity isnt a priority in his administration and so has directed his subordinates to terminate funding that supports equity-related projects to the maximum extent allowed by law, Diaz wrote. Whether thats sound policy or not isnt our call. Diaz, an appointee of Democratic President Barack Obama, in a separate concurring opinion, said he had reached his conclusion reluctantly, saying the evidence suggested a sinister story that resulted in important programs being terminated by keyword. For those disappointed by the outcome, I say this: Follow the law, Diaz wrote. Continue your critical work. Keep the faith. And depend on the Constitution, which remains a beacon amid the tumult. Topics USA The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) last week filed documents in federal court to compel NAPA Auto Parts to comply with a subpoena. Back in May 2024, the EEOC filed a change under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 against Atlanta-based Genuine Parts Company, doing business as NAPA Auto Parts. EEOC issued a subpoena as part of investigation into NAPAs hiring practices, specifically allegations that the company failed to hire and recruit Black job candidates since 2019. The Legal Defense Fund at the time sent a letter to the EEOC asking for a formal investigation into the hiring practices of NAPA and AutoNation. EEOC on Feb. 5 filed a subpoena enforcement action in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas after attempting to obtain voluntary compliance, the agency said. EEOC is seeking data and documents of NAPAs hiring and recruitment practices, including information about its job applicants and employees, and its hiring and recruitment procedures. According to court documents, in August 2025 Genuine Parts filed with the EEOC to have the subpoena revoked or modified but in September the agency denied the request. Genuine Parts has since failed to comply, which has delayed and hampered EEOCs investigation. Title VIIs prohibition on race-based employment discrimination is colorblind, and its protections apply equally to all workers, said EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas. The Commission will continue to use every tool Congress has provided to enforce the law, and when employers refuse to comply, the EEOC will not hesitate to use its full legal authority. Topics Auto Talent Facebook, Google and other tech giants for more than a decade have rejected allegations that they build products deliberately to get kids addicted to social media. For the first time, company executives, including Meta Platforms Inc. Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg, will answer these accusations in front of a jury as part of a trial thats drawing comparisons to Big Tobaccos reckoning with consumer addiction three decades ago. Facebook and Instagram parent Meta and Googles YouTube are at the center of the trial, with Zuckerberg expected to testify in Los Angeles as early as next week. The trial will serve as a critical test for thousands of similar pending lawsuits that also target TikTok Inc. and Snap Inc. and which allege that the worlds most popular products were designed by the four companies to profit at the expense of young peoples safety and mental health. The companies vehemently deny wrongdoing and say they have rolled out tools and resources to support parents with teens. But if they lose, they will face pressure to change the way minors interact with social media and to reach settlements with other plaintiffs that could total billions a scenario that could be akin to the deals that tarnished the tobacco and opioid industries. This case, a personal injury suit brought by the Social Media Victims Law Center in Seattle, centers on a 20-year-old woman from Chico, California, who claims she has been addicted to social media for more than a decade. Her nonstop use of the platforms has caused anxiety, depression and body dysmorphia, she alleges. The woman recently reached confidential settlements with Snap and TikTok, but they are part of two other so-called bellwether cases set for trials in April and June. Meanwhile, Meta is facing a jury trial in New Mexico that also started this month, focused on its safety record with children. Previous legal challenges to social media firms have mainly taken aim at content alleged to be harmful or disturbing to users. Most have been unsuccessful because social networks, like other internet businesses, are protected by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, a 1996 law that broadly shields online platforms from liability for third-party content posted on their websites. That protection was designed to keep platforms from unnecessarily censoring posts to ensure freedom of speech, but has been criticized by some US lawmakers as overly broad, outdated and inadequate to deal with the realities of modern internet use. In the addiction cases, the companies have been able to knock out some allegations by citing Section 230. But the lawyers behind the cases have gained traction in court by arguing that the products themselves through their design and functionality have created harms. They contend the primary cause of psychological suffering for young users stems not from content posted by others but from the algorithms programmed by the companies to prioritize engagement. That includes the web design technique known as infinite scrolling, where new content automatically loads at the bottom of the screen as a user scrolls. The plaintiff in the first case, identified in filings by the initials K.G.M., is very typical of so many children in the United States, the harms that theyve sustained and the way their lives have been altered by the deliberate design decisions of the social media companies, said Matthew Bergman, founder of the Social Media Victims Law Center and one of the lawyers representing the woman. Teen Mental Health While the social media companies cant rely solely on Section 230 to defend themselves, they have argued in court filings that there isnt enough evidence to support claims that their product design injures users. At trial, lawyers for Meta plan to lean on several studies, both internal and external, that reject the idea of a correlation between social media services and teen mental health issues, according to members of Metas legal team. Theyre also expected to highlight the positive ways in which social media can impact teens, primarily by helping them connect with friends, family and community online. Metas team will dispute that K.G.M.s health issues arose because of Metas products. The companys lawyers will try to convince the jury that any harm she suffered is from user content not controlled by Meta rather than structure of the products themselves. Critics and some outside researchers have long held that social media can have a negative impact on mental health, especially among young people. Australia late last year banned social media for kids under 16 years old, and several other European countries are considering similar restrictions. Even Metas own research, which was made public by an employee-turned-whistleblower in 2021, found that the company struggled to rein in misinformation, and that its Instagram platform could have negative effects on teens, especially girls. Meta has since made several changes to how young people can access its services, most notably creating so-called teen accounts that include some content limitations and parental oversight. Meta said in a January blog post that blaming social media companies alone for teen mental health struggles oversimplifies a serious issue. The claims in the lawsuits dont reflect reality, Meta said in the post. The evidence will show a company deeply and responsibly confronting tough questions, conducting research, listening to parents, academics, and safety experts, and taking action. YouTube spokesman Jose Castaneda said the allegations in the litigation are simply not true. Providing young people with a safer, healthier experience has always been core to our work, he said in a statement. In collaboration with youth, mental health and parenting experts, we built services and policies to provide young people with age-appropriate experiences, and parents with robust controls. Zuckerberg, Mohan The trial, which was supposed to start in late January, was delayed following an unexpected illness for one of the defenses lead lawyers. A jury of six women and six men was selected last week, and opening arguments and testimony are scheduled to begin Monday, and may run all the way through March. Instagram head Adam Mosseri is expected to testify the first week, ahead of Zuckerberg, and YouTube boss Neal Mohan is also expected to take the stand. Jurors will also hear from dueling expert witnesses in child psychology and related research fields. The outcomes of the first set of trials could encourage settlement talks by showing lawyers the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments and evidence and ultimately how much the remaining cases are worth, according to Eric Goldman, a professor at Santa Clara University law school. In addition to the cases in Los Angeles, social media companies face consumer protection suits by about three dozen state attorneys general and public nuisance suits by more than 1,000 public school districts across the US that are grouped before a federal judge in Oakland, California. Those cases, which are expected to start going to trial later this year, also expose the tech giants to billions of dollars in damages and potential changes in how the platforms operate. The simple fact that a social media company is going to have to stand trial before a jury and account for its design decisions is unprecedented in American jurisprudence, Bergman said. This has never happened before. Photo: (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images) Copyright 2026 Bloomberg. Topics Claims A bill moving steadily through the Florida Legislature has suddenly ignited a storm of controversy, with some insurance agents and brokers worried it could benefit one large brokerage while costing others fees and flexibility on takeouts of Citizens Property Insurance commercial policies. The main question I have is, What is the problem that this is trying to solve?' said Chris Siegel, Florida vice president at Burns & Wilcox, a surplus lines brokerage. Were already doing all this without a surplus lines clearinghouse. Siegel was talking about Florida Senate Bill 1028, sponsored by state Sen. Joe Gruters, the chairman of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee. The bill would require Citizens to set up a clearinghouse for brokers and agents to use to place commercial property coverage with lightly regulated excess and surplus lines carriers. Gruters committee approved the bill 10-0 in January, followed by the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government on Feb. 6. The measure has one more committee stop in the Senate, as does a companion bill in the House. It may sound innocuous on the surface: A framework for a mechanism much like the clearinghouse used to help move personal lines policies out of Citizens, Floridas once-bloated insurer of last resort. But Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky voiced deep concerns about the bill at the committee hearing last week. He said a commercial clearinghouse could cost as much as $40 million to set upa sporty price tag for relatively few commercial policies. Why spend that much money for just 3,000 policiesat the most? said Dulce Suarez-Resnick, a commercial agent and vice president at Acentria Insurance in Miami. And industry insiders familiar with Gruters bill have argued that it appears to be written to favor one company: Ryan Turner Specialty, also known as RT, part of one of the largest wholesale brokerages in the country. An explanatory sheet circulated in Tallahassee, apparently produced by Ryan and marked confidential, shows the firm already has taken steps to build what would be known as The Florida Risk ExchangeAn AI-Enabled Ryan Specialty Enterprise. The exchange would facilitate a depopulation of the Citizens program and restoration of the Citizens program to its intended position of a market of last resort while enabling insureds, risk managers and brokers to shift their focus to strategic risk management, the 15-page document reads. The bill does not mention RT by name. But it would stipulate that such a clearinghouse must be established by Jan. 1, 2027a tight deadline that could potentially give Ryans exchange a leg up on competing firms. The Ryan summary sheet notes that the clearinghouse administrator also would be the final decision-maker on when agents can proceed with Citizens quotes or must first seek market alternatives. That could put a Ryan enterprise in the position of controlling at least some of the business of other brokers, according to brokers, agents and Yaworskys comments. The bill also seems to raise the possibility that the clearinghouse would be able to charge new fees to brokers. Coverage terms submitted to the clearinghouse administrator must include all fees and surcharges, SB 1028 reads. And commissions paid to agents would not cover surcharges. The fees and commissions arrangement is a concern, Yaworsky testified. The full bill can be read here. A legislative analysis is here. The measure had texts and emails crackling around the state last week after the Tampa Bay Times reported that the chief supporters of the bill include Patrick Ryan, co-founder and chairman of Chicago-based Ryan Specialty and a major contributor to Republican candidates and causes. Ryan company representatives have lobbied regulators and lawmakers in recent weeks, the newspaper noted. Gruters, chair of the Republican National Committee, told the Times that he had pushed for the exchange well before the Ryan familys political contributions, and that other companies have pitched the idea to Citizens. Ryan Specialtys top leadership could not be reached for comment or an interview with Insurance Journal late last week. But in an emailed statement, Ryans chief communications officer said that Citizens has historically competed with the private market for commercial policies, concentrating a disproportionate amount of exposure in the state-created insurer. Ryan Specialty supports the development of responsible and innovative surplus lines solutions that help address these challenges, said the statement. Expanding access to a broader range of insurance markets for Florida commercial businesses, while reducing the states exposure to volatility during future storm seasons, is a constructive outcome for all stakeholders. Suarez-Resnick argued that Citizens depopulation effort doesnt need more help: It has worked well in recent years, with the corporations overall policy count now a third of what it was three years ago, thanks in part to 2022 litigation reforms and dramatic recent improvements in the Florida insurance market. Many agents now are adept at finding other insurers, including surplus lines carriers, to take on Citizens commercial policies. Citizens reported 6,180 commercial and commercial residential policies in force at the end of January this year, a 43% drop from a year ago. This clearinghouse might have been a good idea four years ago, but not now, Suarez-Resnick said. While far fewer than the personal lines policies, commercial policies can still be worth millions of dollarsand policies can be coveted by brokers and carriers alike. Citizens noted almost $200 million in premium for commercial policies last month. Not all Florida agents and brokers are up in arms about the bill. If the wording can be tweaked to require that only the largest and healthiest surplus carriers be allowed to participate, it could help solve some problems for properties that struggle to find coverage, said Matt Mercier, national practice leader for CBIZ Insurance Services, a brokerage specializing in commercial and condominium coverage. As drafted, the bill would require surplus insurers in the commercial clearinghouse to carry a financial strength rating of A- or better and a financial size category of A-VII, as determined by the AM Best financial rating firm. Mercier said it needs to be at least an A-VIII, or even an A-XII size rating to help safeguard policyholders from surplus carriers that may falter and would not be covered by the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association. The distinction between an A-VII and an A-XII insurer is not merely technical; it reflects a substantial difference in policyholders surplus and capital strength, Mercier noted in an email. An A-XII insurer typically maintains approximately 10 to 20 times the surplus of an A-VII insurer. Still, concerns about Gruters exchange bill appear to be gaining steam, after the bill sparked little debate during the first month of the 2026 legislative session. One agent noted that many Florida insurance agents have been frustrated for months with Citizens personal lines clearinghouse technical problems, and the last thing they want is another balky clearinghouse platform. Yaworskys comments at the Senate committee, seen on the Florida Channel, came as something of a surprise but seem to have bolstered opposition to the bill. He said continued depopulation of Citizens is a noble goal, but SB 1028 could affect brokers, agents and insureds in negative ways. If a policyholder has a relationship with a broker, that relationship could be severed under the clearinghouse proposal, Yaworsky said. The broker-administrator-vendor that is ultimately hired by Citizens for this service essentially becomes the broker on both ends of the transaction, he noted. That is a concerning provision for any insurance regulator from the consumer perspective. Topics Trends Agencies Florida Commercial Lines A California produce company was fined $6.7 million for wage violations affected more than 10,000 farmworkers. The California Labor Commissioners Office reached the settlement with Santa Maria-based Alco Harvesting LLC (dba Bonipak Produce Inc.) for the wage and hour violations. The LCO found that Alco Harvesting failed to provide farmworkers with written notices of paid sick leave and COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave. Early in the pandemic, workers who did not know about how much paid sick leave they had were effectively prevented from staying home when sick, which increased the risk of COVID-19 transmission, according to the LCO. In some cases, farmworkers who were believed to have COVID-19 were reportedly quarantined in crowded motel rooms provided by the employer. An ensuing investigation was launched in 2020 after the office received information that a farmworker living in housing provided by the employer died from COVID-19. Investigators also found other reported labor law violations, which included unpaid transportation time, overtime and minimum wage. The LCO says it will distribute $4.2 million directly to affected farmworkers and $1.5 million for minimum wage violations and paid sick leave. The settlement also included non-monetary relief, which includes required postings and notices to H-2A workers about paid sick leave. Topics California Agribusiness A California state court case over whether Instagram and YouTube harmed a womans mental health through addictive app design kicks off on Monday with opening statements, in a test of whether Big Tech platforms can be held liable for harming kids. The 20-year-old woman identified as K.G.M. filed the lawsuit against Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms and Alphabets Google, which owns YouTube. She says the attention-grabbing design of the platforms got her addicted to them at a young age, according to court filings. She alleges the apps fueled her depression and suicidal thoughts and she is seeking to hold the companies liable. A verdict against the tech companies could smooth the wayfor similar cases in state court, and shake the industrys longstanding U.S. legal defense against claims of user harm. Google, Meta, TikTok and Snap face thousands of lawsuits in California. Related: TikTok Charged for Breaching EU Rules With Apps Addictive Features Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to be called as a witness at the trial, which is likely to stretch into March. TikTok and Snap settled with K.G.M. before the trial. The womans lawyers aim to show that the companies were negligent in their design of the apps, that they failed to warn the public about the risks, and that the platforms were a substantial factor in her injuries. If they succeed, the jury will consider whether to award her damages for pain and suffering, and could also impose punitive damages. Meta and Google plan to defend themselves from the claims by pointing to other factors in K.G.M.s life, laying out their work on youth safety, and trying to distance themselves from users who upload harmful content. Related: Move to Ban Social Media for Kids Gains Traction Across Europe Under U.S. law, internet companies are largely shielded from liability for material their users post. If the jury in this case rejects that defense, it could pave the way for other lawsuits claiming the platforms are harmful by design. In addition to cases like K.G.M.s in state court, the companies face more than 2,300 similar lawsuits filed by parents, school districts and state attorneys general in federal court. The judge overseeing those is weighing the companies liability protections ahead of the first trial over the claims in federal court, which could happen as early as June. Also Monday, a landmark trial against Meta is kicking off with opening statements in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where the state attorney general has accused the company of exposing children and teens to sexual exploitation on its platforms and profiting from it. The wave of litigation in the U.S. is part of a global backlash against social media platforms over childrens mental health. Australia and Spain have prohibited access to social media platforms for users under age 16, and other countries are considering similar curbs. (Reporting by Godoy in Los Angeles, Courtney Rozen in Washington and Diana Novak Jones in Chicago; Editing by David Gregorio) The 30-year-old Cork man accused of murdering a 68-year-old man at The Glen in Cork city almost two years ago had his case adjourned on Monday until February 16 at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork. The case was mentioned on Monday and it was indicated if it goes ahead next Monday, it is estimated the trial will last two to three weeks. A psychiatric report is expected to be available next week on a 48-year-old man who pleaded guilty to carrying three knives into the Bridewell garda station saying that he was going to stab someone on St. Patricks Street in Cork. The accused man had no previous convictions of any kind before this unusual incident occurred. On Monday at Cork District Court, Finbarr OConnell of 11 Sunview, Fair Hill, Cork, had the case against him adjourned. He has pleaded guilty to the charges against him. Frank Buttimer, solicitor, said there was a psychiatric element to the defendants behaviour on the day and that a psychiatric report would be helpful and should be available for sentencing on February 17. Judge John King adjourned the case until that date. Garda Wayne McGrath gave evidence when the matter first came before court when there was an objection to bail: Gardai have serious concerns that the accused poses a threat to the personal safety of members of the community. "He has stated that he wants to stab and harm people. And he has been found to be in possession of knives. It is alleged that at approximately 4.35am on December 15, 2025, the accused entered the public office of the Bridewell Garda Station in possession of a knife which he was concealing up his right sleeve. Multiple directions were given to the accused to place any weapons he had on his person onto the ground. He failed to do so. Urgent assistance was sought from the Armed Support Unit to attend the public office of the Garda station. "The accused repeatedly stated that he wanted to kill someone and he was intending on stabbing someone on St Patrick's Street. At that original hearing Mr Buttimer said the defendant had no intention of harming anyone and that the only person who might have been harmed was himself. The solicitor described the defendant as a quiet and vulnerable person. A woman who has become a well-known face in her local area over the last quarter of a century has been recognised as the Cork Person of the month for January. Thelma Beltran, who is originally from the Philippines, arrived in Cork in 2001 and joined the team at the McDonald's outlet in Douglas. Over the last 25 years, she has become a popular figure in the locality, serving countless families as well as being known as a welcoming face to the people of Douglas and beyond. Ms Beltran moves between the front counter and customer care roles and is highly regarded by both staff and customers for her hard work and her "infectious positivity." Her work ethic and dedication to provide exceptional customer services have been described as "incredible", with colleague Jim Ronayne saying they were "incredibly lucky" to have her both as a colleague and friend for 25 years. Now 62 years old, Ms Beltran said she loves working and has no plans to retire. "I love my job. Being part of a great team, getting to know the people of Douglas and helping make our customers days that little bit special is really satisfying. I plan to keep working here as long as Im enjoying it, and hopefully thats for many more years," she said. Awards organiser, Manus O'Callaghan, said Ms Beltran's "commitment to putting smiles on peoples faces and providing exceptional service is outstanding". "For 25 years, she has been a constant, positive presence in Douglas and has welcomed thousands of people through the doors of McDonalds. "Her journey, leaving her home country to build a life here and embed herself so seamlessly in the local community, is inspiring," Mr O'Callaghan added. Ms Beltran's name now goes forward alongside the other monthly winners for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year, who will be announced at the annual gala awards lunch in January next year. The Government is in direct contact with the US Department of Homeland Security over the case of an Irish man detained by ICE since last year. Seamus Culleton was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Boston last year and later transferred to a detention centre in Texas. Mr Culleton has said he fears for his life at the detention centre, describing it as a modern day concentration camp. You just dont know whats going to happen on a day-to-day basis. You dont know if theres going to be riots, you dont know whats going to happen. Its a nightmare down here, Mr Culleton said, speaking from the detention centre on RTEs Liveline. Originally from Glenmore in Co Kilkenny, Mr Culleton has lived in the United States for almost 20 years. He described conditions at the detention centre as filthy, saying toilet and shower facilities were rarely cleaned. Its a bunch of temporary tents. Theres probably room for 1,000 detainees in each tent. I believe theres five tents. Ive been locked in the same room now for 4 and a half months. Ive had barely any outside time, no fresh air, no sunshine. I could probably count on both hands the amount of times Ive been outside. Mr Culleton said detainees receive three meals a day, but described the portions as very, very small, leaving people hungry. The Irish man said ICE detained him in Boston on September 9 while he was returning goods to Home Depot. He said he believed he was legally covered, having received a work permit to remain in the US a month earlier and being just about to receive my Green Card. A Government spokesperson confirmed Taoiseach Micheal Martin has been briefed on the case. The Irish government, through the Consulate in Austin is providing consular assistance to Seamus and his family, while the Irish Embassy in Washington DC continues to engage directly with the Department of Homeland Security about his case, the spokesperson said. A Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said the Irish Embassy is engaging with the Department of Homeland Security at a senior level. Mr Culleton has appealed to Irish politicians for help, asking Mr Martin to raise his case with US President Donald Trump during his White House visit next month. Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in one of the most prominent cases prosecuted under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the citys dissent. Judge Esther Toh said 18 years of the 78-year-old British nationals sentence should be served consecutively to his jail term in his fraud case, for which he received a jail term of five years and nine months. Lai can appeal his case. His co-defendants received jail terms between six years and three months and 10 years. Three government-vetted judges spared Lai the maximum penalty of life imprisonment on charges of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. He was convicted in December. Given his age, the prison term still could keep him behind bars for the rest of his life. Retired Chinese cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, left, and Jimmy Lais wife Teresa Lai arrive at the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) As Lai entered the courtroom on Monday morning, he waved and smiled at his supporters sitting in the public gallery. Hong Kongs outspoken Roman Catholic Cardinal Joseph Zen sat next to Lais wife Teresa. The democracy advocates arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence. The government insists the case has nothing to do with a free press, saying the defendants used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed China and Hong Kong. Lai was one of the first prominent figures to be arrested under the security law in 2020. Within a year, some of Apple Dailys senior journalists also were arrested. Police raids, prosecutions and a freeze of its assets forced the newspapers closure in June 2021. The final edition sold a million copies. His sentencing could heighten Beijings diplomatic tensions with foreign governments. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmers government also has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. US President Donald Trump said he felt so badly after the verdict and noted he spoke to Chinese leader Xi Jinping about Lai and asked to consider his release. Lais daughter, Claire, told The Associated Press she hopes authorities see the wisdom in releasing her father, a Roman Catholic. She said their faith rests in God. We will never stop fighting until he is free, she said. Police officers stand guard outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) Lai founded Apple Daily, a now-defunct newspaper known for its critical reports against the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing. He was arrested in August 2020 under the security law that was used in a years-long crackdown on many of Hong Kongs leading activists. During his 156-day trial, prosecutors accused him of conspiring with six former Apple Daily staffers, two activists and others to request foreign forces to impose sanctions or blockades or engage in other hostile activities against Hong Kong or China. Lai testified for 52 days in his own defence, arguing he had not called for foreign sanctions after the laws introduction. In December, the judges ruled Lai was the mastermind of the conspiracies and never wavered in his intention to destabilise the ruling Chinese Communist Party. They took issue with what they called his constant invitation to the United States to bring down the Chinese government with the excuse of helping Hong Kongers. Lai is serving a nearly six-year prison term over fraud allegations in a separate case and has been in custody for more than five years. In January, lawyer Robert Pang said Lai suffered health issues including heart palpitations, high blood pressure and diabetes. Although Lais condition was not life-threatening, Mr Pang argued his clients health, age and solitary confinement, which the prosecution said Lai requested, would make his sentence more burdensome. The prosecution said a medical report noted Lais general health condition remained stable. The former Apple Dailly staffers and activists involved in Lais case entered guilty pleas. Under the security law, reporting on offences committed by others may result in reduced penalties and some of the staff members served as prosecution witnesses. The convicted journalists are publisher Cheung Kim-hung, associate publisher Chan Pui-man, editor-in-chief Ryan Law, executive editor-in-chief Lam Man-chung, executive editor-in-chief responsible for English news Fung Wai-kong and editorial writer Yeung Ching-kee. The two activists convicted in the case, Andy Li and Chan Tsz-wah, also testified for the prosecution. Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, has called on Keir Starmer to stand down, throwing the British prime ministers leadership of the country into serious peril. At a hastily arranged press conference in Glasgow, the senior Labour politician said: The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. Mr Sarwar said there had been too many mistakes by No 10 since Mr Starmer came to power and that while the prime minister was a decent man he was undermining Labours ability to win the Scottish parliament elections in May. The Scottish party leader is said to be furious that the UK governments decisions have severely damaged support for Scottish Labour, with the SNPs John Swinney now appearing to be on course to stay in Bute House. Recent opinion polls show Labour trailing in third place behind the Scottish National party and Reform. Mr Sarwar and his advisers have calculated it will be impossible for Mr Starmer to recover after the scandal over Peter Mandelsons links to Jeffrey Epstein. His call for Mr Starmer to go comes as a serious blow to the prime minister, who is fighting to reassert control over his party after accepting the resignation of his closest adviser, Morgan McSweeney, amid anger over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. But senior Labour sources said Mr McSweeneys departure had left the prime minister dangerously exposed as he headed towards a series of electoral challenges including the Scottish elections that could determine his political fate. Sources close to Eluned Morgan, Labours first minister in Wales, denied that she was planning to add her voice to the call for Mr Starmer to go on Monday even though the party also faces a hammering in the Welsh elections in May. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar speaking to the media during a press conference at Trades Hall, Glasgow. Picture: Robert Perry/PA Wire Mr Sarwar told the press conference that his first priority was to Scotland and that he did not want to sacrifice the country to a third decade of an SNP government. Thats why the distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. It is so obvious that we desperately need change in Scotland and in three months time the opportunity to get rid of a failing SNP government is one that is too important to be missed, he said. We cannot allow the failures at the heart of Downing Street to mean the failures continue here in Scotland, because the election in May is not without consequence for the lives of Scots. He added: The people of this great country, Scotland, are crying out for competent government, for transparency, for honesty and for delivery. They want to see politics that is open and accountable. They want to see leaders who put the national interest before themselves. That is the standard I will always apply. In three months, we have an election that must be about one thing and one thing only: Scotland. That is my duty, that is my priority, that is my loyalty, and that is Scotlands choice. Mr Sarwar revealed that he told the prime minister earlier in the day that he planned to call for his resignation and that its fair to say, we didnt agree. After a tumultuous few days, David Lammy, the deputy prime minister, was the first cabinet minister to publicly back the prime minister, after hours of silence from his senior ministerial team. Keir Starmer won a massive mandate 18 months ago, for five years to deliver on Labours manifesto that we all stood on. We should let nothing distract us from our mission to change Britain and we support the prime minister in doing that, he posted. Douglas Alexander, the Scotland secretary, who works closely with Mr Sarwar, said: Anas has reached his own decision and I respect that. My job as Anas acknowledged today is to make sure Scotlands voice is heard in cabinet. My focus remains on doing that. There was an immediate backlash among some Scottish Labour MPs, who have privately been among the most critical of the prime minister, with one telling the Guardian: Anas does not speak for us all. Cabinet ministers including Rachel Reeves, the chancellor; Yvette Cooper, the foreign secretary; and John Healey, the defence secretary, rallied round the prime minister, although the support of some was more muted. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, who is known to have leadership ambitions of his own, told Sky News that although the atmosphere was febrile Keir Starmer doesnt need to resign. He added: It has not been the best week for the government Give Keir a chance. Some cabinet ministers in London were shocked by Mr Sarwars intervention. One told the Guardian: I cant for the life of me understand what hes doing. It would be madness to have a leadership contest and delegate the future of the country to the Labour membership. Downing Street said Mr Starmer was not resigning and would be concentrating on the job in hand. His official spokesperson described his mood as upbeat and confident as he addressed No 10 staff. Sources close to the prime minister have suggested that he spent the weekend reflecting on his own future. But the spokesperson said: That is not the prime minister who appeared in front of staff this morning. It is very clear that he remains determined to tackle the job in hand. Mr Sarwars team was deeply irritated to learn last week that the prime minister had been arguing internally that he needed to remain in office to help Scottish Labour win the May election. They believe the polls show that Mr Starmers continued leadership will destroy their electoral chances. Polling by More in Common found on Friday that Labour had fallen four points in the Holyrood constituency vote, slipping behind Reform into third place, and was also a point behind Reform on the list vote. Until the latest developments in the Epstein scandal, Mr Sarwar had repeatedly defended Mr Starmers record and as recently as last week had offered the prime minister his tentative support. In the months after Scottish Labours success in the 2024 general election, when it won 37 out of Scotlands 57 Westminster seats, Mr Sarwar had been extremely confident of winning the Holyrood election. He brought in more than a 1m in donations, winning backing from wealthy Scottish business leaders, and believed Scottish voters had grown weary and disappointed with the SNP after 18 years in government. - The Guardian ( Tomdispatch.com ) On February 5th, with the expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, or New START, the only bilateral arms control treaty left between the United States and Russia, we are guaranteed to find ourselves ever closer to the edge of a perilous precipice. The renewed arms race that seems likely to take place could plunge the world, once and for all, into the nuclear abyss. This crisis is neither sudden nor surprising, but the predictable culmination of a truth that has haunted us for nearly 80 years: humanity has long been living on borrowed time. In such a context, you might think that our collective survival instinct has proven remarkably poor, which is, at least to a certain extent, understandable. After all, if we had allowed ourselves to feel the full weight of the nuclear threat weve faced all these years, we might indeed have collapsed under it. Instead, we continue to drift forward with a sense of muted dread, unwilling (or simply unable) to respond to the nuclear nightmare. In a world already armed with thousands of omnicidal weapons, such fatalism part suicidal nihilism and part homicidal complacency becomes a form of violence in its own right. Given such indifference, we risk not only our own lives but also the lives of all those who would come after us. As Jonathan Schell observed decades ago, both genocide and nuclear war are distinct from other forms of mass atrocity in that they serve as crimes against the future. And as Robert Jay Lifton once warned, what makes nuclear war so singularly horrifying is that it would constitute genocide in its terminal form, a destruction so absolute as to render the earth unlivable and irrevocably reverse the very process of creation. Yet for many, the absence of such a nuclear holocaust, 80 years after the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, is taken as proof that such a catastrophe is, in fact, unthinkable and will never happen. These days, to invoke the specter of annihilation is to be dismissed as alarmist, while to argue for the abolition of such weaponry is considered naive. As it happens, though, the opposite is true. Its the height of naivete to believe that a global system built on the supposed security of nuclear weapons can endure indefinitely. That much should be obvious by now. In truth, weve clung to the faith that rational heads will prevail for far too long. Such thinking has sustained a minimalist global nonproliferation regime aimed at preventing the further spread of nuclear weapons to so-called terrorist states like Iraq, Libya, and North Korea (which now indeed has a nuclear arsenal). Yet, today, it should be all too clear that the states with nuclear weapons are, and have long been, the true rogue states. A nuclear-armed Israel has, after all, been committing genocide in Gaza and has bombed many of its neighbors. Russia continues to devastate Ukraine, which relinquished its nuclear arsenal in 1994, and its leader, Vladimir Putin, has threatened to use nuclear weapons there. And a Washington led by a brazen authoritarian deranged by power, who has declared that he doesnt need international law, has stripped away the fragile facade of a rules-based global order. Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and the leaders of the seven other nuclear-armed states possess the unilateral capacity to destroy the world, a power no country should be allowed to wield. Yet even now, there is still time to avert catastrophe. But to chart a reasonable path forward, its necessary to look back eight decades and ask why the world failed to ban the bomb at a moment when the dangerous future we now inhabit was already clearly foreseeable. Every City is Hiroshima With Hiroshima and Nagasaki still smoldering ruins, people everywhere confronted a rupture so profound that it seemed to inaugurate a new historical era, one that might well be the last. As news of the atomic bombings spread, a grim consensus took shape that technological progress had outpaced political and moral restraint. Journalist Norman Cousins captured the zeitgeist when he wrote that modern man is obsolete, a self-made anachronism becoming more incongruous by the minute. Human beings had clearly fashioned themselves into vengeful gods and the specter of Armageddon was no longer a matter of theology but a creation of modern civilization. In the United States, of course, a majority of Americans greeted the initial reports of the atomic bombings of those two Japanese cities in a celebratory fashion, convinced that such unprecedented weapons would bring a swift, victorious end to a brutal war. For many, that relief was inseparable from a lingering desire for retribution. In announcing the first atomic attack, President Harry Truman himself declared that the Japanese have been repaid many fold for their strike on Pearl Harbor, which inaugurated the official American entry into World War II. Yet triumph quickly gave way to a more somber reckoning. As the scale of devastation came into fuller view, the psychological fallout radiated far beyond Japan. The New York Herald Tribune captured a growing unease when it editorialized that one forgets the effect on Japan or on the course of the war as one senses the foundations of ones own universe trembling a little it is as if we had put our hands upon the levers of a power too strange, too terrible, too unpredictable in all its possible consequences for any rejoicing over the immediate consequences of its employment. Some critics of the bombings would soon begin to frame their concerns in explicitly moral terms, posing the question: Who had we become? Historian Lewis Mumford, for example, argued that the attacks represented the culmination of a society unmoored from any ethical foundations and nothing short of the visible insanity of a civilization that has ceased to worship life and obey the laws of life. Religious leaders voiced similar concern. The Christian Century magazine typically condemned the bombings as a crime against God and humanity which strikes at the very basis of moral existence. As the apocalyptic imagination took hold, others turned to a more self-interested but no less urgent question: what will happen to us? Newspapers across the country began running stories on what a Hiroshima-sized bomb would do to their downtowns. Yet Philip Morrison, one of the few scientists to witness both the initial Trinity Test of the atomic bomb and Hiroshima after the bombing, warned that even such terrifying projections underestimated the danger. Deaths in the hundreds of thousands were, he insisted, far too optimistic. The bombs will never again, as in Japan, come in ones or twos. They will come in hundreds, even in thousands. And given the effect of radiation, those who made remarkable escapes, the lucky ones, would die all the same. Imagining a prospective strike on New York City, he wrote of the survivors who died in the hospitals of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Rochester, and Saint Louis in the three weeks following the bombing. They died of unstoppable internal hemorrhages of slow oozing of the blood into the flesh. Ultimately, he concluded, If the bomb gets out of hand, if we do not learn to live together there is only one sure future. The cities of men on earth will perish. One World or None Morrison wrote that account as part of a broader effort, led by former Manhattan Project scientists who had helped create the bomb, to alert the public to the newfound danger they themselves had helped unleash. That campaign culminated in the January 1946 book One World or None (and a short film). The scientists had largely come to believe that, if the public had their consciousness raised about the implications of the bomb, a task for which they felt uniquely responsible and equipped, then public opinion might shift in ways that could make policies capable of averting catastrophe politically possible. Scientists like Niels Bohr began calling on their colleagues to face the great task lying ahead, while urging them to be prepared to assist in any way in bringing about an outcome of the present crisis of humanity worthy of the ideals for which science through the ages has stood. Accepting such newfound social responsibility felt unavoidable, even if so many of those scientists wished to simply return to their prewar pursuits in the insulated university laboratories they once inhabited. As physicist Joseph Rotblat observed, among the many forms of collateral damage inflicted by the bomb was the destruction of the ivory towers in which scientists had been sheltering. In the wake of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, that rupture propelled them into public life on an unprecedented scale. The once-firm boundary between science and politics began to blur as formerly quiet and aloof researchers spoke to the press, delivered public lectures, published widely circulated articles, and lobbied members of Congress in an effort to secure some control over atomic energy. Among them was J. Robert Oppenheimer, director of the Los Alamos Laboratory where the bomb was created, who warned that, if atomic bombs are to be added as new weapons to the arsenals of a warring world then the time will come when mankind will curse the names of Los Alamos and Hiroshima, a statement that left some officials perplexed. Former Vice President Henry Wallace, who had known Oppenheimer as both the director of Los Alamos and someone who had directly sanctioned the bombings, recalled that he seemed to feel that the destruction of the entire human race was imminent, adding, the guilt consciousness of the atomic bomb scientists is one of the most astounding things I have ever seen. Yet the scientists pressed ahead in their frantic effort to avert future catastrophe by preventing a nuclear arms race. They insisted that there was no doubt the Soviet Union and other powers would acquire the weapon, that any hope of a prolonged atomic monopoly was delusional, and that espionage was incidental to such a reality, since the fundamental scientific principles needed to build an atomic bomb had been established by 1940. And with Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the secret that a functioning bomb was possible was obviously out. They argued that there would be no effective defense against a devastating atomic attack and that the U.S., as a highly urbanized society, was uniquely vulnerable to such city killer weapons. With vast, exposed coastlines, they warned that such a bomb, not yet capable of being delivered by a missile, could simply be smuggled into one of the nations ports and lie dormant there for years. For the scientists, the implications were unmistakable. The age of national sovereignty had ended. The world had become too dangerous for national chauvinism, which, if humanity were to survive, had to give way to a new architecture of international cooperation. Teaching Us to Love the Bomb Such activism had its intended effects. Many Americans became more fearful and wanted arms control. By late 1945, a majority of the public consistently supported some form of international control over such weaponry and the abolition of the manufacturing of them. And for a brief moment, such a possibility seemed within reach. The first resolution passed by the new United Nations in January 1946 called for exactly that. The publication of John Herseys Hiroshima first as a full issue of the New Yorker and then as a book, with its intense portrayal of life and death in that Japanese city, further shifted public sentiment toward abolition. Yet as such hopes crystallized at the United Nations, the two global superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, were already preparing for a future nuclear war. Washington continued to expand its stockpile of atomic weaponry, while Moscow accelerated its work creating such weaponry, detonating its initial atomic test four years after the world first met that terrifying new weapon. That Soviet test, followed by the Korean War, helped extinguish the early promise of an international response to such weaponry, a collapse aided by deliberate efforts in Washington to ensure that the United States grew its atomic arsenal. In that effort, former Secretary of War Henry Stimson was coaxed out of retirement by President Trumans advisers who urged him to write one final, definitive account defending the bombings to neutralize growing opposition. As Harvard president and government-aligned scientist James Conant explained to Stimson, officials in Washington feared that they were losing the ideological battle. They were particularly concerned that mounting anti-nuclear sentiment would prove persuasive among the type of person that goes into teaching, shaping a generation less inclined to regard their decision as morally legitimate. Stimsons article, published in Harpers Magazine in February 1947, helped cement the official narrative: that the bomb was a last resort rooted in military necessity that saved half a million American lives and required neither regret nor moral examination. In that way, the opportunity to ban the bomb before the arms race took off was squandered not because the public failed to recognize the threat, but because the government refused to heed the will of its people. Instead, it sought to secure power through nuclear weapons, driven by a paranoid fear of Moscow that became a self-fulfilling prophecy. What followed were decades of preemptive escalation, the continued spread of such weaponry globally, and, at its height, a global arsenal of more than 60,000 nuclear warheads by 1985. Forty years later, in a world where nine countries the U.S., Russia, China, France, Great Britain, India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea already have nuclear weapons (more than 12,000 of them), there can be little doubt that, as things are now going, there will be both more countries and more weapons to come. Such a global arms race must, however, be ended before it ends the human race. The question is no longer what is politically possible, but what is virtually guaranteed if we refuse to pursue the impossible. Nuclear weapons are human creations and what is made by us can be dismantled by us. Whether that happens in time is, of course, the question that now should confront everyone, everywhere, and one that history, if there is anyone around to write or to read it, will not excuse us for failing to answer. Copyright 2026 Eric Ross Via Tomdispatch.com Informed Comment (Ann Arbor) Massive and unusual floods have inundated Morocco since late January. Morocco had seven years of drought, and rainfall has declined 20% on average since 1980, so in theory the rains were welcome. But in several areas, they were so torrential that they caused heavy flooding, crop damage and some loss of life. The country has had to evacuate some 154,000 people. One dam is at 156% of its capacity, an extremely dangerous situation. The province of Larache has been especially hard hit. Drought hardens the topsoil, making it less able to absorb the rains and so producing a heightened threat of run-off and flooding. Middle East Monitor reports, The [Interior] ministry said about 81,709 people were evacuated in Larache province, mainly in the city of Ksar el-Kebir, while 9,728 were evacuated in Sidi Kacem province, 2,853 in Sidi Slimane province and 14,133 in Kenitra province. The Moroccan government is having to distribute food for livestock to farmers because the floods swept away stored grain. More heavy rain is expected today, Monday. A study of similar torrential rains and flooding in South Africa this month found that a 40% increase in the intensity of the rains would be impossible to explain without human-caused climate change. That is, humans are burning coal, gas and petroleum, emitting potent greenhouse gases that are putting vast amounts of energy into the atmosphere and changing the way it works. File photo of Meknes, Morocco, by othmane ferrah on Unsplash Climate scientist Francois Gemenne, professor at the prestigious School of Higher Studies in Commerce (HEC) in Paris and director of the Hugo Observatory at Liege University in Belgium, explained to Africa Radio that these events are not simply bad weather but derive from a durable change in the climate of North Africa. He said that the whole Mediterranean region will be hit especially hard by climate change and that extreme weather, both intense and prolonged droughts and occasional downpours and flooding, are part of this change. They are two sides of the same coin, he said. He added that we are passing from a relatively stable climate system to an unstable one, where extreme weather events will multiply. Gemenne estimated that migration from North Africa will rise by 15% to 30%. Moreover, Europe and the Mediterranean will see some areas become depopulated because of climate change while others will be more desirable. He seems to be hinting at massive internal migrations inside Europe. It isnt just a matter of an influx of Africans. Radio Africas commentator said that these enormous floods are a signal that governments need to increase their efforts toward resilience. ( Waging Nonviolence ) Two images, from opposite sides of the world, are seared into our minds: Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos in his blue knit bunny hat, carrying his Spiderman backpack, being snatched from the streets and detained by ICE. Five-year-old Hind Rajabs voice, tiny and terrified, crying out for help from the car as her family members dead bodies lay next to her and the Israeli forces bear down upon her. This past week, on the two-year death anniversary of her daughter, Hinds mother, Wesam Hamada, wrote in the New York Times: Hearing my daughter trapped, begging for my help, was a kind of pain no mother should experience. No child deserves to die like Hind did, just as no child should live under the constant threat of bombardment, starvation and displacement. These are not isolated tragedies. They are the logic of state terror, from Minnesota to Gaza City. This is why when local organizers put out a call for clergy to show up and stand in solidarity with the Minneapolis community, we, as Jewish faith leaders, and as a mother and an aunt, answered. Hundreds of clergy converged in the Twin Cities in time for the statewide strike on Jan. 23. We were there not only to march, pray and engage in mutual aid with local Latine and Indigenous community churches, but also to join neighborhood patrols watching for ICE raids, bearing witness, and trying to disrupt the snatching of family members from the streets of Minneapolis. A group of us drove in a car with a local resident, listening to the volunteer-run rapid response network dispatch, responding as needed when someone called in an ICE spotting. Driving slowly through the icy roads, we scanned sidewalks and side streets watching for ICE vehicles and officers, aware that danger could materialize at any moment. Often the streets were freezing and deceptively quiet until suddenly they werent. Once we encountered ICE, we grabbed our phones to witness and record. Listening to the dispatch and the screams on the scene had an eerie similarity to hearing Hinds voice crying for help. Rather than trust state actors to care for the community, community-based medics, observers and activists swarmed the streets to take care of one another. After a relatively uneventful foot patrol through a Somali neighborhood, a soft-spoken Buddhist monk reflected that most of the time, liberation work looks like standing around and not quite knowing what youre doing. Of our 50-person clergy patrol scattered across the neighborhood, most of us encountered nothing at all. But just a few blocks away, four clergy served as a protective presence as 12 ICE agents accosted a Latina woman. She had her papers. She was shaken. And she was deeply grateful for the witness and accompaniment that reminded her she was not alone. This is what occupation feels like. We have felt it before while accompanying farmers and schoolchildren in the West Bank: the constant vigilance, the scanning, the calculation of risk. Threats could come from anywhere, quickly and violently, rifles slung across chests. The demand to carry papers, under threat of disappearance, is a daily Palestinian reality and now an American one. In Minneapolis, the occupation looks like this: children and families snatched day and night. Kids no longer safe at school. Parents hiding in their homes. Midwives operating underground because ICE is showing up at hospitals even in neonatal intensive care units. One woman explained she was late to our clergy convening because she had been delivering breast milk to a three-month-old infant whose mother had just been abducted by ICE. ICEs new tactic of using offers of food support as bait is chillingly reminiscent of the U.S.-backed food aid death trap operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in which Israeli forces daily opened fire on starving Gazans seeking food. Our friend in Minneapolis, who is a middle-aged, white, unmistakably Midwestern woman, well call her Sally, started driving patrols because one of her Latina friends was abducted. Like Israeli activists, once she saw the truth, she could not unsee it. Recently she was driving solo when she saw a squad of ICE officers pull over, jump out of their vehicles, guns visible. She started honking to draw attention. They turned toward her and raised their guns. Another car pulled between her and ICE. She was shaken, and she kept patrolling. I have to keep observing. Reporting. Whistling. Honking, she told us. As Sally followed an ICE vehicle to bear witness, ICE ran her plates and drove straight to her address, with her following behind. Pointing at her house, as if to say: We know where you live. This is how terror works. This is not the first time such a comparison has been made between conditions in Palestine and state violence against people of color in the United States. Black and Palestinian activists have long named shared systems of militarization. They were tear-gassed by the same weapons, trained by the same forces. The same week in 2020 that George Floyd was murdered in Minneapolis, Iyad al-Hallaq, a 32-year-old Palestinian man with autism was shot dead by police officers in Jerusalems Old City, and Israeli and Palestinian protesters carried signs decrying, Justice for Iyad, Justice for George! And yet, what is happening in Minneapolis feels next level for our American cities. Jewish memory, Jewish responsibility As Ashkenazi Jews, our minds do not only go to Palestine. We are haunted by our own histories: families hiding in Berlin to avoid deportation, people abducted in the night, neighbors punished for offering shelter. The eerie familiarity is impossible to ignore. Even Joe Rogan of all people asked the question about Minneapolis: Are we really going to be the Gestapo? We know what this is. And we know our responsibility. Never Again cannot mean never again for Jews only. As we have pointed out time and again at demonstrations for Gaza, it must mean never again for anyone. Local leaders reminded our clergy delegation that while there are comparisons to be made to the Gestapo, we must remember that Hitlers regime was fascinated by and learned from the tactics deployed by American slave patrols, confederate ideology and Jim Crow institutionalized racism. This is not an imported evil; we need not look beyond our own borders to see how this pattern of racist oppression repeats itself. We must name that our Jewish community is deeply divided around the ongoing apartheid of Palestine and the genocide in Gaza. Gathering with dozens of Jewish faith leaders who do not see eye to eye is not easy. But being part of a delegation of over 40 Rabbis for Ceasefire created a container to live into our values. And in this moment, ICE Out for Good is a message we can unite around. As Bernice Johnson Reagon famously taught us: If youre in a coalition and youre comfortable, you know its not a broad enough coalition. On the morning of the mass action day, we held an interfaith service and prayed together at Temple Israel. Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, reminded us of the story of Jonah and Nineveh (Jonah 1:4) a great city whose people had grown so numerous they forgot how to care for one another. Their sin was not violence, but neglect of neighborliness. It is not easy to walk into synagogues that may be silent on genocide. But the hope is this: When Jewish leaders speak of loving our neighbors, that love will stretch beyond our immediate borders, toward our Palestinian kin whose enduring hospitality lights the way. Perhaps by praying love your neighbor, a crack opens one that allows us to consider how every neighbor is a neighbor: in Minneapolis, in Jenin, in Hebron, in Gaza City. We believe deeply in the power of gathering across differences for a united cause. This is how we build power in a time of rising authoritarianism. Radical hospitality and the power of love will win From Minneapolis to the West Bank, we witness a conflict exploding between two worldviews. This conflict has existed from the time of the Torah to the present day. That conflict is between, on one hand, a worldview that embraces the love of power, domination and the weaponization of fear and demonization of others, and on the other hand, a worldview that embraces the power of love, dispersed, nonhierarchical relations and community, and steadfast courage in the face of fear. The people of Minneapolis have responded to terror with extraordinary courage and resistance, just as the people of Gaza have. In Palestine, they call it sumud. In Minnesota, steadfastness. It looks like neighbors organizing food, accompanying children to school, patrols and care quietly, relentlessly. Mutual aid humming beneath the surface. When Renee Goode was shot, many of us looked at her photo and saw ourselves: mid-life, white, brown-haired, thinking it could have been any of us. Many of us had that thought before, back in 2003 when Rachel Corrie was killed by the Israeli military bulldozer in Gaza. Then on Jan. 24, Alex Pretti was murdered. Another observer. Another person trying to be a good neighbor. Another witness silenced. And yet we cannot stop observing, stop blowing our whistles. Protesters in Minneapolis. (Instagram/Rae Abileah) Ta-Nehisi Coates observed, If you cant draw the line at genocide, you probably cant draw the line at democracy. We have an opportunity to demand that our U.S. legislators continue to draw the line, building from the Senates vote at the end of January in opposition to renewing ICEs budget with no strings attached. Hundreds of thousands of people contacted their Senators in advance of that vote. We must keep the pressure up to stop these inhumane actions. Minneapolis is reminding us what it means to be neighbors again. Love your neighbor does not mean kidnap, assault, detain and deport the neighborhood. It is an old, simple idea. One our Palestinian kin have been trying to teach us for generations. Together across cities, across borders, across continents we are weaving a web of protection, care, resistance and beloved community. May they hear the cries of our whistles, and may we keep showing up with the neighborly love our faith and morality demands of us. Kohenet Rae Abileah is a member of Rabbis for Ceasefire, an advisory board member of the Center for Jewish Nonviolence, and is an organizer with ALAS, Ayudando Latinos a Sonar in Half Moon Bay, California. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 8, 2026 /Banyan Gold Corp. (the "Company" or "Banyan") (TSX-V:BYN) (OTCQB:BYAGF) is pleased to announce it has intersected high-grade gold ("Au") mineralization in the Airstrip Deposit ("Airstrip") at approximately 350 metres ("m") vertical depth, over 350 m down-dip of previous intersections at its AurMac Project ("AurMac"), Yukon, Canada. Deep Hole Airstrip Mineralization Test Highlights: AX-25-817 - 1.37 g/t Au over 38.0m; includes high-grade interval of 15.87 g/t Au over 2.2m - approximately 350m down-dip step out highlights new deep target extension of skarn horizons and that the Airstrip deposit is open down-dip and at depth Airstrip Highlights : AX-25-799 - 7.04 g/t Au over 6.0m within 0.68 g/t Au over 125.5m; including high-grade intervals of 29.30 g/t Au over 1.4m AX-25-807 - 1.93 g/t Au over 10.4m and 1.00 g/t Au over 36.1m within 0.64 g/t Au over 145.5m "High grade mineralization in deep hole AX-25-817 highlights the promising exploration targets at depth, potentially associated with a deep-seated magmatic source for mineralization that our exploration vectoring indicates could be situated under Airstrip," said Tara Christie, President and CEO. "Intersecting high-grade skarn mineralization in a potentially consistent horizon 350m down-dip of Airstrip and 750m along strike of a previous deep hole may indicate prospective exploration targets at depth." "These holes show there is potential for additional mineralization in multiple calcareous metasedimentary horizons, and very-high grade mineralization potentially extending to depth at Airstrip," stated Duncan Mackay, VP Exploration. "The horizons extending from Airstrip underneath Powerline have the potential to extend the conceptual pit and present promising exploration targets at depth. We have also intersected calc-silicate horizons below the lower calcareous metasedimentary horizon (Cal 2; see Figure 2) indicating potential for additional high-grade mineralization at depth in the footwall of Airstrip. The high-grade skarn intersections in AX-25-799 and -807 also have potential to convert waste blocks and extend the conceptual pit boundary, narrowing the gap between Airstrip and Powerline." Figure 1: Plan map of highlight gold intersections at AurMac. Deep hole AX-25-817 was drilled from Powerline to extend down through Airstrip Mineralization. Drillhole AX-25-817 is following up on previous drilling in AX-23-456 which intersected Airstrip style mineralization at depth (approx. 450m vertical depth). The deep hole in this release targeted deep extensions of mineralization, recognising that the calcareous metasedimentary horizons in Airstrip are continuous at depth and consistently mineralized (Figure 2). Figure 2: Cross-section 467350mE in Central Powerline and Airstrip. High-grade mineralization in AX-25-817 has potential as a deep target below the existing Powerline Mineral Resource Estimate (" MRE ") and conceptual pit (Figure 3). Extending very-high grade mineralization approx. 350m down-dip from the previously intersected Airstrip skarn zones presents a highly prospective target for future exploration. Figure 3: Very high-grade skarn mineralization (392.1-394.3m) in calc-silicate altered calcareous metasedimentary rocks displaying intense pyrrhotite replacement mineralization in AX-25-817 extending below Powerline. Figure 4: Cross-section 467000mE in Airstrip. Mineralization in AX-25-799 and -807 (Figures 5-7) have potential to extend high-grade mineralization, convert waste blocks and extend the conceptual pit wall. Figure 5: Sheeted veins with visible Au intersections (see Figure 6) in AX-25-807. Figure 6: Sheeted veins with visible Au intersections in AX-25-807 at 78.6m highlight potential for additional Powerline-style mineralized domains up-section of Airstrip Mineralization adding further prospectivity to the area between Airstrip and Powerline conceptual pits. Figure 7: Strongly mineralized calc-silicate altered metasedimentary rocks in AX-25-807, typical of Airstrip Mineralization. High-grade intersections as above have the potential to convert waste blocks and extend mineralization at depth, potentially joining the conceptual pits of Airstrip and Powerline. Table 1: Diamond drillhole assay intercepts for Airstrip in this release Note: Calculated true widths for AX-25-817 are approx. 95% of reported drill widths. Calculated true widths for AX-25-799 and AX-25-807 are approx. 70% of reported drill widths. Table 2: Collar Locations for drillholes in this release Analytical Method and Quality Assurance/Quality Control Measures All diamond drill core was systematically logged and photographed by Banyan geology personnel. All core samples (HTW and NTW diameter) were split on-site at Banyan's core processing facilities. Once split, half samples were placed back in the core boxes with the other half of split samples sealed in poly bags with one part of a three-part sample tag inserted within. Samples were delivered by Banyan personnel or a dedicated expediter to the Bureau Veritas, Whitehorse preparatory laboratory where samples are prepared and then shipped to Bureau Veritas's Analytical laboratory in Vancouver, B.C. for pulverization and final chemical analysis. Core splits reported in this news release were analysed by Bureau Veritas of Vancouver, B.C., utilizing the four-acid digestion ICP-ES 35-element MA-300 or ICP-ES/MS 59-element MA-250 analytical package with FA-450 50-gram Fire Assay with AAS finish for gold on all samples. Samples returning >10 g/t Au were reanalysed by fire assay with gravimetric finish on a 50g sample (FA-550). High-grade samples with documented visible gold are also analysed using metallic screen fire assay (FS-652). Bureau Veritas is an accredited lab following ISO/IEC 17025:2017 SCC File Number 15895. A robust system of standards, core duplicates and blanks has been implemented in the 2025 exploration drilling program and is monitored as chemical assay data becomes available. Qualified Persons Duncan Mackay, M.Sc., P.Geo., is a "Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), and has reviewed and approved the content of this news release in respect of all disclosure other than the MRE. Mr. Mackay is Vice President Exploration for Banyan and has verified the data disclosed in this news release, including the sampling, analytical and test data underlying the information. Upcoming Events 121 Mining Investment and African Mining Indaba, Cape Town, February 9 - 12 BMO 35th Global Metals, Mining & Critical Minerals Conference, Hollywood, FL, February 22 - 25 Metals Investor Forum Toronto, February 27 - 28 Corporate Presentation: February 27, 6:00 PM ET Banyan Yukon Breakfast - Fireside Chat - Toronto, March 2, 2026 7:00 AM to 9 AM EST PDAC, Toronto, March 1 - 4, 2026 Exhibitor Booth No. 2213, March 1 About Banyan Banyan's primary asset, the AurMac Project is located in the Traditional Territory of First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, in Canada's Yukon Territory. The current Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the AurMac Project has an effective date of June 28, 2025 and comprises an Indicated Mineral Resource of 2.274 million ounces of gold ("Au") (112.5 M tonnes at 0.63 g/t) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 5.453 Moz of Au (280.6 M tonnes at 0.60 g/t ) (as defined in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards for Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves incorporated by reference into NI 43101). The 303 square kilometres ("sq km") AurMac Project lies 40 kilometres from Mayo, Yukon. The AurMac Project is transected by the main Yukon highway and benefits from a 3-phase powerline, existing power station and cell phone coverage. Table 3: Pit-Constrained Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources - AurMac Project Notes to Table 3: The effective date for the MRE is June 28, 2025, and was prepared by Marc Jutras, P.Eng., M.A.Sc., Principal, Ginto Consulting Inc., an independent "Qualified Person" within the meaning of NI 43-101. Mineral Resources, which are not Mineral Reserves, do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, changes in global gold markets or other relevant issues. The CIM Definition Standards were followed for classification of Mineral Resources. The quantity and grade of reported Inferred Mineral Resources in this estimation are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these Inferred Mineral Resources as an Indicated Mineral Resource. Mineral Resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.30 g/t gold for all deposits, using a US$/CAN$ exchange rate of 0.73 and constrained within an open pit shell optimized with the Lerchs-Grossman algorithm to constrain the Mineral Resources with the following estimated parameters: gold price of US$2,050/ounce, US$2.50/t mining cost, US$10.00/t processing cost, US$2.00/t G+A, 90% gold recoveries, and 45 pit slopes. [1] The number of tonnes and ounces was rounded to the nearest thousand. Any discrepancies in the totals are due to rounding effects. In addition to the AurMac Project, the Company holds the Hyland Gold Project, located 70 km Northeast of Watson Lake, Yukon, along the Southeast end of the Tintina Gold Belt (the "Hyland Project") in the Traditional Territory of the Kaska Nations, closest to the Liard First Nation and Daylu Dena Council.The Hyland Project represents a sediment hosted, structurally controlled, intrusion related gold deposit, within a large land package (over 125 sq km), accessible by a network of existing gravel access roads. The updated MRE comprises an Indicated Mineral Resource of 337 thousand ("K") ounces ("oz") of gold ("Au") and 2.63 million ("M") oz of silver ("Ag") (11.3 M tonnes of ore at 0.93 g/t Au and 7.27 g/t Ag), and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 118 Koz of Au and 0.86 Moz Ag (3.9 M tonnes of ore at 0.95 g/t Au and 6.94 g/t Ag)(as defined in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards for Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves incorporated by reference into NI 43101) effective September 1, 2025 and with technical report filed on SEDARon October 27, 2025. Banyan also holds the Nitra Gold Project, a grassroots exploration project located in the Mayo Mining district, approximately 10 km west of the AurMac Gold property. The Nitra Property lies in the northern part of the Selwyn basin and is underlain by metaclastic rocks of the Late Proterozoic Yusezyu Formation of the Hyland Group, similar to lithologies hosting portions of the AurMac Project. Middle Cretaceous Tombstone Plutonic suite intrusions occur along the property including the Morrison Creek and Minto Creek stocks. The property is 100% owned and operated by Banyan Gold Corporation ("Banyan") and covers approximately 313.9 sq km. The property is accessible by road along the Silver Trail Highway, South McQuesten Road and 4x4 roads. Banyan trades on the TSX-Venture Exchange under the symbol "BYN" and is quoted on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol "BYAGF". For more information, please visit the corporate website at or contact the Company. ON BEHALF OF BANYAN GOLD CORPORATION (signed) "Tara Christie" Tara Christie President & CEO For more information, please contact: Tara Christie 778 928 0556 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Jasmine Sangria 604 312 5610 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) nor OTCQB Venture Market accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION: This release contains forward-looking information, which is not comprised of historical facts and is based upon the Company's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "will", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend(s)", "believe", "potential" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations, Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the potential for resource expansion, mineral resource estimates; mineral recoveries and anticipated mining costs. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include uncertainties inherent in resource estimates, continuity and extent of mineralization, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, enhanced risks inherent to conducting business in any jurisdiction, and those risks set out in Banyan's public documents filed on SEDAR. Although Banyan believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Banyan disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. West Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Surge Battery Metals Inc. (TSXV: NILI) (OTCQX: NILIF) (FSE: DJ5C) (the "Company" or "Surge") is pleased to announce that Nevada North Lithium LLC (NNL), the joint venture formed by Surge and Evolution Mining Limited (Evolution) has selected Fluor Enterprises, Inc. ("Fluor") as the lead engineering firm to lead the Pre-Feasibility Study ("PFS") at its flagship Nevada North Lithium Project ("NNLP"). The selection of Fluor, one of the world's premier engineering, procurement, and construction management firms, marks a pivotal transition for Surge from exploration into the development phase. Fluor's engagement aligns the high-grade potential of the Nevada North discovery with a globally recognized execution partner capable of delivering a bankable study and, ultimately, a commercially operating mine. Key Highlights: Tier 1 Validation: Fluor's involvement validates the scale and potential of the NNLP, bringing Fortune 500 rigor to the project's design and economics. Execution Focus: Unlike some consulting firms, Fluor is a builder. Their scope focuses on "constructability," ensuring the PFS is not just a theoretical study but a roadmap to production. Integrated Team: Fluor will lead a consortium of specialized technical partners-including Kemetco Research (Metallurgy), IMC (Mining), and Call & Nicholas (Geotech), many of whom were instrumental in the Company's successful Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the NNLP. The Company anticipates the delivery of the PFS in Q4 2026, positioning NNL to make a rapid transition to a Direct Feasibility Study and achieving permitting milestones. Mr. Greg Reimer, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Surge, commented, "Selecting Fluor as lead engineer for the NNLP's Pre-Feasibility Study is an important step in advancing one of the most significant lithium clay assets in the United States. Fluor's track record of delivering large-scale critical minerals projects, including lithium developments in North America, gives us a high level of confidence in de-risking our project design, capital estimates and execution pathway. Building on the robust economics outlined in our recent PEA, a partnership with a Tier-1 engineering firm underscores our commitment to developing Nevada North as a long-life and low-cost source of domestic battery-grade lithium for the USA." Surge Battery Metals Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Tu Lieu as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Lieu brings nearly 20 years of experience in accounting and finance. He began his career in the mid-2000s and obtained his CPA designation in 2015. Throughout his career, Mr. Lieu has held roles including FP&A Manager, Financial Controller, and has developed expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, finance and cash flow management, audits, and compliance with accounting standards. Mr. Lieu transitioned his careen to the resource industry and has most recently held the position of Vice President of Finance at Surge and Nevada North Lithium, LLC. The company would like to thank Mr. Jensen for his contributions and wishes him all the best in the future. About Surge Battery Metals Inc. Surge Battery Metals Inc., a Canadian-based mineral exploration company, is at the forefront of securing the supply of domestic lithium through its active engagement in the Nevada North Lithium Project. The project focuses on development of high-grade lithium energy metals in Nevada, USA, a crucial element for powering battery electric storage and electric vehicles. With a primary listing on the TSX Venture Exchange in Canada and the OTCQX Market in the USA, Surge Battery Metals Inc. is strategically positioned as a key player in advancing lithium exploration. About Evolution Mining Limited Evolution Mining is a leading, globally relevant gold miner. Evolution operates six mines, comprising five wholly-owned mines - Cowal in New South Wales, Ernest Henry and Mt Rawdon in Queensland, Mungari in Western Australia, and Red Lake in Ontario, Canada, and an 80% share in Northparkes in New South Wales. About Nevada North Lithium LLC Nevada North Lithium LLC owns the Nevada North Lithium Project southeast of Jackpot, Nevada about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Elko County. The first three rounds of drilling at the project identified a strongly mineralized zone of lithium bearing clays occupying a strike length of more than 4,300 meters and a known width of greater than 1,500 meters. Highly anomalous soil values and geophysical surveys suggest there is potential for the clay horizons to be much greater in extent. The Nevada North Lithium Project has a pit-constrained Inferred Resource containing an estimated 11.24 Mt of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE) grading 3010 ppm Li at a 1,250-ppm cutoff. The recently completed PEA reported an after-tax NPV 8 % US $9.17 Billion and after-tax IRR of 22.8% at $24,000/t LCE, and an OPEX of US $5,243/t LCE. A 2025 infill drill program has been completed, and assay results are pending. On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Greg Reimer" Greg Reimer, President & CEO Keep up-to-date with Surge Battery Metals: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This document may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan" or "planned", "possible", "potential", "forecast", "intend", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to future prices of commodities including lithium and nickel, the accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals including approvals of title and mining rights or licenses and environmental, local community or indigenous community approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure or water, changes in laws, rules and regulations including in the United States, Nevada or California or any other jurisdiction which may impact upon the Company or its properties or the commercial exploitation of those properties, currency risks including the exchange rate of USD$ for Cdn$ or other currencies, fluctuations in the market for lithium related products, changes in exploration costs and government royalties, export policies or taxes in the United States or any other jurisdiction and other factors or information. The Company's current plans, expectations, and intentions with respect to development of its business and of its Nevada properties may be impacted by economic uncertainties arising out of any pandemic or by the impact of current financial and other market conditions (including US government subsidies or incentives) on its ability to secure further financing or funding of its Nevada properties. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon several assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, environmental (including endangered species, habitat preservation and water-related risks) and social risks, contingencies, and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2026) - Southern Silver Exploration Corp. (TSXV: SSV) (the "Company" or "Southern Silver") reports additional assays from drilling which continues to outline extensions of mineralization on the recently acquired Puro Corazon claim and identified further thick intervals of high-grade and strongly silver-enriched polymetallic mineralization. Highlight assays include: a 5.8 metre interval averaging 173g/t Ag , 1.5% Cu, 1.8% Pb and 17.3% Zn (781g/t AgEq) (1) from drillhole 25CLM-210; and averaging , and from drillhole and a 10.8 metre interval averaging 121g/t Ag , 0.3% Cu, 5.1% Pb and 3.9% Zn (348g/t AgEq), including a 3.1 metre interval averaging 225g/t Ag , 0.6% Cu, 9.4% Pb and 7.1% Zn ( 642g/t AgEq ) (1) from drillhole 25CLM-210 averaging , 0.3% Cu, and including a averaging , 0.6% Cu, and ( ) from drillhole a 3.0 metre interval averaging 715g/t Ag, 0.1g/t Au, 7.5% Pb and 1.0% Zn (890g/t AgEq)(1) from drillhole 25CLM-212 (1) see AgEq calculation criteria in notes to Table 1. Intervals are reported as estimated true thickness unless otherwise indicated The drill results, specifically from holes 25CLM-210 and 25CLM-215 continue to extend mineralization to depth, below earlier reported results from the Puro Corazon target as well as testing mineralization toward the southern edge of the claim with drill holes 25CLM-211 to 25CLM-214. Previously released intercepts from this round of drilling include: 10.5 metres grading 1,115g/t AgEq (see News Release dated December 1, 2025) from 25CLM-203 grading (see News Release dated December 1, 2025) from 25CLM-203 10.4 metres grading 743g/t AgEq (see News Release dated January 6, 2026) from 25CLM-205; and grading (see News Release dated January 6, 2026) from 25CLM-205; and 15.3 metres grading 581g/t AgEq (see News Release dated January 27, 2026) from 25CLM-206 Drilling continues to demonstrate the continuity of the high-grade replacement lens first identified in drill holes 25CLM-203 and 25CLM-205 and has now extended mineralization to a depth of over 360 metres below surface in the main skarn target. Twenty-one core holes out of twenty-two planned holes have been completed to date and a final hole is in progress. Analyses from fourteen drill holes have now been reported and further assays, including those from underground sampling of the historic Puro Corazon workings, are anticipated over the coming weeks. Figure 1: Plan view of the drilling on the recently acquired Puro Corazon Claim. Figure 2: Longitudinal Section of the Puro Corazon Target. Note: pierce points reflect intercepts into the main Skarn zone Table 1: Select Assay Results from the Cerro Las Minitas project. Collar Data Hole # Az Dip Depth From To Interval Est. Tr. Thck. Ag Au Cu Pb Zn AgEq Notes Deg (UTMN) Deg (m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (g/t) (%) (%) (%) (g/t) 25CLM-210 85 -54 593 46.6 48.0 1.4 1.1 173 0.2 0.0 2.2 0.7 244 25CLM-210 323.4 337.3 14.0 10.8 121 0.0 0.3 5.1 3.9 348 inc. 323.4 324.1 0.8 0.6 350 0.0 1.1 15.7 15.3 1141 and inc. 330.3 334.3 4.1 3.1 225 0.0 0.6 9.4 7.1 642 25CLM-210 346.1 346.7 0.6 0.5 267 0.0 1.1 13.5 18.6 1100 25CLM-210 355.0 356.1 1.1 0.9 259 0.0 0.3 7.1 6.4 583 25CLM-210 406.6 436.4 29.8 23.0 70 0.0 0.5 0.7 6.8 301 38% Dilution inc. 421.2 428.7 7.5 5.8 173 0.0 1.5 1.8 17.3 781 25CLM-210 448.4 451.6 3.3 2.5 116 0.0 0.1 0.5 7.3 328 25CLM-211 49 -59 405 26.4 27.8 1.4 0.7 95 0.0 0.1 3.6 5.9 325 25CLM-211 266.4 305.0 38.6 21.0 34 0.0 0.1 0.4 0.2 58 Anomalous composite inc. 275.8 277.1 1.3 0.7 121 0.0 0.5 0.3 0.1 169 and inc. 298.9 299.6 0.7 0.4 358 0.1 0.5 7.6 2.3 603 25CLM-212 68 -64 498 397.0 401.3 4.3 3.0 715 0.1 0.0 7.5 1.0 890 inc. 397.0 399.0 2.0 1.4 1455 0.2 0.0 14.8 1.0 1773 25CLM-212 411.7 412.8 1.1 0.8 333 0.1 0.0 0.9 0.0 354 25CLM-212 417.0 420.8 3.8 2.7 309 0.0 0.1 1.6 0.3 360 25CLM-213 45 -60 252 148.9 150.0 1.1 0.7 60 0.0 0.2 1.5 1.3 141 25CLM-213 182.9 184.2 1.3 0.8 61 0.0 0.1 1.4 1.3 131 25CLM-214 45 -45 339 117.6 118.9 1.3 0.9 131 0.0 0.5 4.3 3.9 358 25CLM-214 207.3 211.5 4.2 2.9 29 0.0 0.0 1.0 1.6 92 25CLM-214 226.7 228.0 1.3 0.9 22 0.0 0.1 1.2 1.0 81 25CLM-215 96 -48 492 326.9 327.4 0.5 0.2 488 0.2 0.6 14.7 17.8 1293 25CLM-215 343.9 352.4 8.5 4.0 60 0.0 0.2 2.9 2.4 190 57% dilution inc. 343.9 344.4 0.5 0.2 179 0.0 1.7 5.3 3.1 485 and inc. 351.3 352.4 1.1 0.5 241 0.0 0.3 12.8 12.4 839 25CLM-215 417.3 423.1 5.8 4.8 49 0.0 0.1 0.1 9.6 320 inc. 417.3 419.4 2.1 1.8 9 0.0 0.1 0.0 17.2 480 25CLM-215 434.0 435.5 1.4 1.2 243 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 254 Analyzed by FA/AA for gold and ICP-AES by ALS Laboratories, North Vancouver, BC. Silver (>100ppm), copper, lead and zinc (>1%) overlimits assayed by ore grade ICP analysis, High silver overlimits (>1500g/t Ag) and gold overlimits (>10g/t Au) re-assayed with FA-Grav. High Pb (>20%) and Zn (>30%) overlimits assayed by titration. AgEq and ZnEq were calculated using prices of $2,800/oz Au, $32/oz Ag, $4.50/lb Cu, $0.95/lb Pb and $1.25/lb Zn. AgEq and ZnEq calculations utilized relative metallurgical recoveries of Au 48.6%, Ag 93%, Cu 70%, Pb 87% and Zn 93%. Composites are calculated using a 80g/t AgEq cut-off in sulphide and 0.5g/t AuEq in the oxide gold zone. Composites have <20% internal dilution, except where noted; anomalous intercepts are calculated using a 10g/t AgEq cut-off. Next Steps The Company is planning to incorporate the results of the Puro Corazon drilling program into the much larger Cerro Las Minitas project which is expected to significantly enhance the project economics. Final assays are anticipated to be received by the end of the first quarter of 2026, after which the Company intends to: update the Mineral Resource Estimate of the Cerro Las Minitas project; followed by an update of the Preliminary economic Assessment ("PEA") of the project in accordance with the provisions of National Instrument 43-101 and continue to advance baseline data collection and permit readiness review The Company reports that work on the Cerro Las Minitas project continues advancing numerous upside opportunities identified subsequent to the July 2024 PEA, while also derisking and advancing the project with the commencement of baseline data collection, hydrology, geotechnical, archaeological and land surveys and studies. As currently modelled, the Cerro Las Minitas project features a large-scale underground mining operation with robust project economics and high gross revenues in a well located and mining friendly jurisdiction in southeast Durango, Mexico. For more information on the details of the current economic assessment of the Cerro Las Minitas project please refer to Southern Silver's news release dated June 10, 2024. About Southern Silver Exploration Corp. Southern Silver Exploration Corp. is an exploration and development company with a focus on the discovery of world-class mineral deposits either directly or through joint-venture relationships in mineral properties in major jurisdictions. Our specific emphasis is the 100% owned Cerro Las Minitas silver-lead-zinc project located in the heart of Mexico's Faja de Plata, which hosts multiple world-class mineral deposits such as Penasquito, Los Gatos, San Martin, Naica and Pitarrilla. We have assembled a team of highly experienced technical, operational and transactional professionals to support our exploration efforts in developing the Cerro Las Minitas project into a premier, high-grade, silver-lead-zinc mine. Located in the same State as the Cerro Las Minitas property is the newly acquired Nazas, gold-silver property. Our property portfolio also includes the Oro porphyry copper-gold project and the Hermanas gold-silver vein project where permitting applications for the conduct of a drill program is underway, both located in southern New Mexico, USA. Robert Macdonald, MSc. P.Geo, is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and supervised directly the collection of the data from the CLM project that is reported in this disclosure and is responsible for the presentation of the technical information in this disclosure. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include plans to advance and develop the CLM property including updating the Mineral Resource Estimate followed by an update of the PEA. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including, but not limited to, general economic conditions, interest rates, commodity markets, regulatory and governmental approvals for the Company's projects, and the availability of financing for the Company's development projects on reasonable terms. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include the timing and receipt of government and regulatory approvals, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Step-out drilling from surface at the Apollo system in hole APC-159 has expanded the breccia body to the northeast by approximately 30 metres (where it remains open for further expansion) by intercepting gold grades up to 40% above the grades at the outer edge of the internal model. Highlights from the high-grade section of this hole are as follows: 165.75 metres @ 5.35 g/t gold equivalent from 8.85 metres including 31.70 metres @ 17.35 g/t gold equivalent Four additional holes have infilled the Apollo breccia body near surface by intercepting gold, tungsten, silver and copper grades above the prediction of the internal block model with highlights as follows: 60.45 metres @ 4.68 g/t gold equivalent from surface including 22.15 metres @ 6.98 g/t gold equivalent (APC-155) 131.20 metres @ 2.61 g/t gold equivalent from 6.80 metres including 34.55 metres @ 4.13 g/t gold equivalent from 8.45 metres (APC-158) TORONTO, Feb. 9, 2026 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (NYSE: CNL) (TSX: CNL) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce assay results for five diamond drill holes targeting definition and expansion of the high-grade, outcropping gold-tungsten-rich zone at the summit of the Apollo system ("Apollo"). Apollo forms part of a large, partially reduced intrusion related system enriched in gold, silver, copper and tungsten. Drilling to date has delineated continuous mineralization from surface to depths exceeding 1,410 vertical metres, where the high-grade Ramp Zone remains open for further expansion. Apollo anchors the Company's flagship Guayabales Project--a district-scale, multi-target and infrastructure-rich project in Caldas, Colombia. Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman commented: "These exceptional drill results not only expand the shallow portion of Apollo by up to 30 metres to the northeast, but also demonstrate grades significantly above our internal model, highlighting the tremendous upside potential of this system. We are excited to resume drilling in this area to see if Apollo continues to grow at shallow depths while simultaneously expanding the high-grade Ramp Zone at depth. With $135 million in cash and plans for up to 100,000 metres of drilling in 2026, Collective is poised to accelerate discoveries and deliver substantial value to our shareholders as we advance toward a maiden mineral resource estimate in the first half of 2027." To date, Collective has completed 167,500 metres of diamond drilling across the Guayabales and San Antonio projects, including 110,000 metres at the flagship Apollo system. With US$135 million in cash (as of December 1, 2025), the Company is fully funded for its planned 2026 program, which envisions up to 100,000 metres of additional drilling. Up to fourteen rigs are anticipated to be operating across both projects before the end of Q1, 2026, with numerous high-priority holes pending assay results. Details (see Table 1 and Figures 1-5) Five drill holes collared from Pad 22 intersected high-grade gold, tungsten, silver and copper mineralization starting from at or near surface with results as follows: 60.45 metres @ 4.68 g/t AuEq from surface (APC-155) including: 22.15 metres @ 6.98 g/t AuEq from 20.50 metres down hole 99.95 metres @ 2.64 g/t AuEq from surface (APC-156) including: 26.25 metres @ 4.72 g/t AuEq from surface 20.80 metres @ 3.04 g/t AuEq from 50.45 metres down hole 60.85 metres @ 3.06 g/t AuEq from surface (APC-157) 131.20 metres @ 2.61 g/t gold equivalent from 6.80 metres down hole (APC-158) including: 34.55 metres @ 4.13 g/t gold equivalent from 8.45 metres down hole 19.90 metres @ 3.50 g/t gold equivalent from 118.10 metres down hole 165.75 metres @ 5.35 g/t gold equivalent from 8.85 metres down hole (APC-159) including: 31.70 metres @ 17.35 g/t gold equivalent from 59.40 metres down hole 8.50 metres @ 27.82 g/t gold equivalent from 81.60 metres down hole In APC-159, the Company also intersected 64.00 metres @ 2.00 g/t gold equivalent from 236.00 metres down hole. This mineralization represents newly discovered sheeted veinlets, which are located within the recently discovered Hanging Wall Zone (see press release dated December 9, 2025). Planning is underway to follow up on the results of hole APC-159 by continuing to drill test for this high-grade mineralization in a northeast direction. Results announced today have expanded the Apollo breccia body from surface by up to 30 metres to the northeast and have increased the local gold and tungsten grades by up to 40% as compared to the internal block model. Also, the holes have successfully closed drilling gaps within the internal block model with drill spacing now down to 30 meter centers in this area (from surface down to 150 metres depth). These results reinforce Apollo's status as a robust exploration discovery with multi-metal upside. The Company remains focused on aggressive expansion and delineation drilling to unlock further value ahead of a planned maiden mineral resource estimate in H1, 2027. Table 1: Assays Results for Drill Holes APC-155, APC-156, APC-157, APC-158 and APC-159 Hole # From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au g/t WO 3 % Ag g/t Cu % AuEq g/t* WO 3 Eq %** APC-155 0.00 60.45 60.45 1.28 0.66 43 0.15 4.68 0.83 Incl. 20.50 42.65 22.15 1.12 1.33 25 0.14 6.98 1.24 APC-156 0.00 99.95 99.95 0.98 0.24 29 0.28 2.64 Incl. 0.00 26.25 26.25 2.70 0.38 33 0.10 4.72 & Incl. 50.45 71.25 20.80 0.36 0.53 23 0.18 3.04 APC-157 0.00 60.85 60.85 1.20 0.25 42 0.24 3.06 APC-158 6.80 138.00 131.20 1.21 0.22 27 0.14 2.61 Incl. 8.45 43.00 34.55 1.35 0.48 50 0.16 4.13 & Incl. 118.10 138.00 19.90 3.08 0.04 19 0.08 3.50 APC-159 8.85 174.60 165.75 4.39 0.09 42 0.13 5.35 Incl. 59.40 91.10 31.70 15.65 0.26 66 0.17 17.35 Incl. 81.60 90.10 8.50 25.18 0.24 156 0.20 27.82 and 236.00 300.00 64.00 1.87 - 10 0.02 2.00 *AuEq (g/t) is calculated as follows: (Au (g/t) x 0.97) + (Ag (g/t) x 0.017 x 0.85) + (Cu (%) x 1.14 x 0.95) + (WO 3 (%) x 5.64 x 0.72) utilizing metal prices of Au US$3,000/oz, Ag US$50/oz, Cu US$5.0/lb and WO 3 US$24.69/lb and recovery rates of 97% for Au, 85% for Ag, 95% for Cu and 72% for WO 3 . **WO 3 Eq% is calculated as follows: (WO 3 (%) x 0.72) + (Au (g/t) x 0.18 x 0.97) + (Ag (g/t) x 0.003 x 0.85) + (Cu (%) x 0.20 x 0.95) utilizing metal prices of WO 3 US$24.69/lb, Au US$3,000/oz, Ag US$50/oz and Cu US$5.0/lb and recovery rates of 72% for WO 3 , 97% for Au, 85% for Ag and 95% for Cu. Recovery rate assumptions for metals are based on metallurgical results announced on October 17, 2023, April 11, 2024, and October 3, 2024. True widths are between 60%-90% of the total length and grades are uncut. About Collective Mining Ltd. To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com. Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective is a gold, silver, copper and tungsten exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company's two projects are located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines. The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo system, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade gold-silver-copper-tungsten Apollo system. The Company's objectives at the Guayabales Project are to expand the newly discovered high-grade Ramp Zone along strike and to depth and drill a series of greenfield generated targets on the property. Additionally, the Company is drilling its optioned San Antonio Project (can earn up to 100% interest) as it hunts for new discoveries and looks to aggressively extend to the south the recently discovered high-grade silver system made at the Pound target. The San Antonio Project is located between two to five kilometers east-northeast of the Guayabales Project and could potentially share infrastructure given their proximity to each other. Management, insiders, a strategic investor and close family and friends own 45.3% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on both the NYSE American and TSX under the trading symbol "CNL". Qualified Person (QP) and NI43-101 Disclosure David J Reading is the designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and verified that the technical information contained herein is accurate and approves of the written disclosure of same. Mr. Reading has an MSc in Economic Geology and is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and of the Society of Economic Geology (SEG). Technical Information Samples were cut by Company personnel at Collective Mining's core facility in Caldas, Colombia. Diamond drill core was sawed and then sampled in maximum 2 metres intervals, stopping at geological boundaries. Drill hole core diameter is a mix of PQ, HQ and NQ depending on the depth of the drill hole. Core samples have been prepared and analyzed at ALS laboratory facilities in Medellin, Colombia and Lima, Peru for copper, gold and silver assays, and multi-element ICP. ALS is an accredited laboratory which is independent of the Company. Gold assays are obtained by fire assay fusion with AAS finish on a 50g sample (Au-AA24). Any samples returning > 10 g/t were then reanalyzed by fire assay with gravimetric finish on a 50g sample (Au-GRA22). Copper and silver were assayed by inductively Coupled Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) following a 4-acid digestion. Samples were also analyzed for a suite of 48 elements with ME-MS61 plus mercury and a sequential copper leach analysis was completed on each sample with copper greater than 10,000 parts per million. Blanks, duplicates, and certified reference standards are inserted into the sample stream to monitor laboratory performance. Crush rejects and pulps are kept and stored in a secured storage facility for future assay verification. No capping has been applied to sample composites. The Company utilizes a rigorous, industry-standard QA/QC program. Information Contact: Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski73) on X Follow Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on X, (Collective Mining) on LinkedIn, and (@collectivemining) on Instagram FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussion with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always using phrases such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to the anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future recovery metal recovery rates; future growth potential of Collective; and future development plans. These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding future events including the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, precious and base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the annual information form of the Company dated March 24, 2025. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Two French-Israeli activists facing legal summons in France for "complicity in genocide" denounced on Sunday what they described as a political trial. The summons were issued in July last year for lawyer Nili Kupfer-Naouri of the Israel is Forever group and Rachel Touitou of the Tsav 9 group over protests in 2024 and 2025 in which trucks carrying humanitarian aid for Gaza were blocked at checkpoints. The summons call for the two to appear before an investigating magistrate but not for their detention. Speaking at an event in Netanya in central Israel, Kupfer-Naouri asserted that "this is not an individual case, this is a state matter... this is a political trial". Touitou told AFP that she had "protested peacefully, my only 'weapon' was an Israeli flag", adding she had been motivated by accusations of Hamas looting aid while hostages were "rotting" in militants' hands. "International law cannot be hijacked and instrumentalised for political ends," she added. Kupfer-Naouri, who has filed a slander complaint in France against organisations involved in the case, said: "You cannot be accused of complicity in genocide when no court, either French or international, has ruled that there is a genocide in Gaza." The Gaza war was sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel's retaliation flattened much of Gaza and left more than 71,800 people dead, according to the health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations. A ceasefire has been in place since October 10, though both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violations. Kosovo's ex-president Hashim Thaci, whose war crimes trial enters its closing phase in The Hague on Monday, is a former rebel leader who fought for his country's independence and then dominated its politics for more than two decades. Thaci is widely seen as a guerrilla hero inside the Balkan country for his leadership of the pro-independence ethnic Albanian Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) during the 1998-1999 war with Serbia. The tall 57-year-old -- who served more than seven years as prime minister -- saw his popularity soar when he helped oversee Kosovo's declaration of independence in 2008. But his image was tarnished by a 2010 Council of Europe report that linked him to organised crime and politically-motivated murders of Serb, Albanian and Roma civilians during and immediately after the war. In the years since, he has also faced accusations of corruption, clientelism and cynical politicking that have blighted Kosovo's first decade of independence. But it was the war-era allegations that abruptly ended his presidency and have seen him held for over five years in The Hague. Thaci resigned as head of state in 2020 and handed himself over after a judge confirmed an indictment against him for crimes including murder, torture, illegal detention and enforced disappearances. "These are not easy moments for me and my family, and for those who have supported and believed in me in the past three decades of our struggle for freedom, independence and nation-building," he said announcing his surrender to the court. - 'George Washington of Kosovo' - Born on April 24, 1968, in the Drenica region of western Kosovo -- a hotbed of separatism and rebellion among its ethnic Albanian community -- Thaci was involved in passive resistance against the Belgrade authorities as a student from the early 1990s. He later moved to Switzerland, home to a large Albanian diaspora, where he studied history. He became frustrated by the policy of peaceful resistance to Belgrade's repression of ethnic Albanians espoused by the late Kosovo president Ibrahim Rugova. Instead he gathered other like-minded ethnic Albanians into an underground guerrilla army, the KLA, to take on the forces of Serbian strongman Slobodan Milosevic. Thaci earned the nom de guerre "Snake" during the conflict, when he served as the KLA's political leader. More than 13,000 people, mainly ethnic Albanians, were killed in the war that ended after NATO intervened in 1999, pushing out Serb forces and establishing a United Nations administration over Kosovo. International courts later convicted several senior Serbian army and police officials for crimes committed during the conflict. Thaci then laid down his guns and donned a suit to enter politics, leading then-US vice president Joe Biden to hail him as the "George Washington of Kosovo" during a visit to the White House. He became premier after the November 2007 election a year after Rugova's death. The writer and academic regarded as the father of the nation was unbeatable in all post-war polls. Three months later, Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia. He remained at the heart of power in Kosovo, being elected as president in 2016, despite accusations of corruption from his critics. He has always denied any wrongdoing during the war, describing it as a "just" rebellion against Serbian repression. "Political mistakes in peace I could have made, but war crimes, never," he said in 2020, as he delivered on his promise to "immediately resign" if an indictment against him was confirmed. "I will not face justice from this office," he said. People of all faiths will overcome "evil" together, Israel's President Isaac Herzog said on Monday as he laid a wreath at Sydney's Bondi Beach to commemorate victims of a shooting that killed 15 people at a Jewish festival. The Israeli head of state paid homage under rain and grey skies to those killed in the December 14 attack as he embarked on a tightly secured, four-day visit aimed at consoling Australia's Jewish community. "The bonds between good people of all faiths and all nations will continue to hold strong in the face of terror, violence and hatred," he said in a ceremony outside the beachside Bondi Pavilion. "We shall overcome this evil together." Herzog said he laid two stones from Jerusalem at Bondi Beach "in sacred memory of the victims". He welcomed "positive steps" by the Australian government to fight antisemitism, with the introduction of tougher gun and hate crime laws since the attack -- the deadliest against Jews since Hamas's assault on Israel on October 7, 2023. The Israeli president also told reporters that he shared people's frustrations about a rise in antisemitism all over the world. - 'A pained community' - Among the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting were an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, a couple who confronted one of the gunmen, and 10-year-old Matilda, who was described at her funeral as a "ray of sunshine". Alleged Bondi Beach gunman Sajid Akram, 50, was shot and killed by police during the attack. An Indian national, he entered Australia on a visa in 1998. His 24-year-old son Naveed, an Australian-born citizen who remains in prison, has been charged with terrorism and 15 murders. Many Jewish Australians have welcomed Herzog's trip. "His visit will lift the spirits of a pained community," said Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the community's peak body. But some in the community disagreed, with the progressive Jewish Council of Australia saying he was not welcome because of his alleged role in the "ongoing destruction of Gaza". The UN's Independent International Commission of Inquiry found last year that Herzog was liable for prosecution for inciting genocide after he said all Palestinians -- "an entire nation" -- were responsible for the Hamas attack on Israel. Israel has "categorically" rejected the inquiry's report, describing it as "distorted and false" and calling for the body's abolition. - Protests - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged people to be respectful of the reason for Herzog's visit, saying he would join the president to meet with the families of those killed at Bondi Beach. The Israeli head of state said he has "come here in good will". He accused protesters of seeking to "undermine and delegitimise" Israel's right to exist. The New South Wales state government has declared Herzog's Sydney visit a "major event" -- giving police greater powers to control demonstrations. Nevertheless, pro-Palestinian protesters were out in force in Australia's two largest cities on Monday evening. In Sydney, hundreds marched calling for Herzog to be investigated for alleged war crimes and accusing him of inciting "genocide". Crowds also gathered in the centre of Melbourne demanding an end to Israel's "occupation" of the Palestinian territories. A drone strike apparently carried out by Niger's military killed 17 civilians, among them children, in western Niger last month, Human Rights Watch said Monday. Niger is plagued by jihadist violence in the western Tillaberi region, a flashpoint zone where the country's borders meet those of its allies Burkina Faso and Mali. The tri-border area has become a haven for militants linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group who have carried out deadly attacks for nearly a decade. Niger's military junta, who came to power in a 2023 coup, has struggled to contain the jihadists in Tillaberi, despite maintaining a large army presence in the region. IS claimed an attack targeting Niamey airport last month, in a rare strike in the capital, with jihadist violence usually contained to the west and southeast. "An apparent Nigerien military drone strike killed at least 17 civilians, including four children, and injured at least 13 others at a crowded market" on January 6, HRW said in a statement. Three Islamist fighters were also killed in the strike, it said. It took place in the village of Kokoloko in the Tillaberi region, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) west of Niamey and less than three km from the border with Burkina Faso, HRW said. Witnesses spoke of having seen a drone flying over the village twice during the morning and then drop munitions on it when hundreds of people were in the market, HRW said. Those killed included 11 women, two men and four children, the NGO said, adding it had based its findings on statements from witnesses, NGOs and journalists. "The strike, which also killed three Islamist fighters, violated laws-of-war prohibitions against indiscriminate attacks and might amount to a war crime," it added. It called on Niger's authorities to carry out a transparent and impartial investigation. - Risks for civilians - Niger'a military junta has not released a statement about the incident and did not respond to HRW's quesions, the group said. Witnesses said that fighters from the IS group's Sahel branch had helped residents collect the bodies, which were buried in the village cemetery. Nearly all the village's 1,200 residents fled to neighbouring villages or across the border following the strike, HRW said. It added that high-resolution satellite imagery from January 20 showed burnt areas in various parts of the village along the main road. HRW had warned in its world report released last month that fighting in western Tillaberi and other border areas had intensified, increasing the risks for civilians. In late September, air strikes aimed at jihadists by Niger's army led to dozens of civilian victims in the west of the country, according to local sources. In January 2024, several civilians were killed in military air strikes targeting columns of jihadists after an attack on a military post in Tyawa, near the border with Burkina Faso. The Hague war crimes trial against Kosovo's ex-president and former guerrilla leader Hashim Thaci, along with three other senior rebel figures, began hearing closing statements on Monday -- the final phase before it retires to deliver a verdict. All four face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, over their alleged responsibility for killings, torture and other abuses committed by KLA members. Delivering the prosecution's closing statement, specialist prosecutor Kimberly West requested a single sentence of 45 years for the crimes allegedly committed during the 1990s war with Serbia. "The gravity of the charges has not diminished with the passage of time," West told the court. Thaci listened to the proceedings, wearing a charcoal suit, a white shirt, and a red tie. Closing arguments from all parties are scheduled for this week and next -- with Thaci and his co-accused expected to begin delivering their statements later this week. Thaci was the political leader of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) during the war against Serbia; the other three men held senior roles in the rebel group. The hearing is scheduled to end by mid-February, and the court will have a month further to deliberate before delivering its verdict. That deadline could be extended by two months under exceptional circumstances. Thaci, who immediately resigned from the presidency after his indictment in 2020, and his co-accused pleaded not guilty at the opening of the trial four years ago. They are all expected to do the same in their closing statements. Established by the country's parliament, the Kosovo Specialist Chambers investigates and prosecutes suspected war crimes committed by ethnic Albanian guerrillas during the war. Although part of Kosovo's judicial system, it is physically located in The Hague and staffed solely by international judges and supporting staff in a bid to protect witnesses from possible retribution at home. The indictment alleges that KLA members committed crimes against hundreds of civilians and non-combatants - including Serbs, Roma and Kosovo Albanians deemed political opponents - at detention sites in Kosovo and northern Albania. At home, the men are still widely seen as heroes of the country's independence struggle. A large march in support is planned in the capital, Pristina, in the closing days of the hearings. Between 2013 and 2019, an estimated 40,000 citizens from countries beyond Iraq and Syria joined the Islamic State armed group (ISIS), drawing from Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, South East and Central Asia and as far as the US and Australia. When thousands ended up captured in the final territory of the defeated caliphate, a jurisdictional nightmare was created that nation states have mostly spent years seeking to ignore. As the US Central Command (CENTCOM) facilitates the mass transfer of up to several thousand alleged ISIS affiliates from Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) custody into the Iraqi judicial system, however, and as Baghdad operates without external political mediation for the first time in over two decades, these serious legal and humanitarian questions finally deserve an answer. These developments present a profound tension Iraq is asserting itself as a normal sovereign country at last, yet arguably its judiciary is being used to sweep a major international human rights crisis under the carpet. Iraq has so far received 2,225 detainees, according to the head of the security information cell attached to the prime ministers office. The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has established extradition will not be considered until Iraqs domestic legal requirements are fully satisfied, effectively placing thousands of foreign nationals estimated at 42 nationalities - under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Iraqi state for the foreseeable future. According to the SJCs National Centre for International Judicial Cooperation, the detained include perpetrators of international crimes, including genocide and crimes against humanity but as Iraq has yet to incorporate these core international crimes into its domestic legislation, it is difficult to see how they could be prosecuted as such. Following the closure of UNITAD in 2024 and the end of the UN Assistance Mission (UNAMI)s mandate in December 2025, the operation leaves Iraq as the sole arbiter of a legal black hole the rest of the world has spent a decade failing to face. While it could hardly have expected its judiciary would have to deal with thousands of non-Iraqis, the transition is further complicated by a political paralysis in Baghdad. With Nouri al-Maliki bidding for a return to the premiership, there is a risk that oversight of these transfers could move from formal judicial institutions towards the same sectarian security structures that defined his previous tenure, and the very policies that many argue originally fuelled the rise of ISIS. Rendition as mitigation For years, human rights organisations have raised alarms about detention facilities in North-East Syria. A 2024 Amnesty International report detailed systematic torture and a staggering lack of due process within the SDF-run system of detention. Reporting also highlighted how the US government, through its support of these facilities, was already deeply entangled in a system of arbitrary detention. In this light, the 2026 transfers represent a tactical evolution of this entanglement. Although some narratives frame developments as Iraqs triumph of sovereignty and regional stability, the driver appears not to be a pursuit of justice but rather the US militarys retreat from North-East Syria. Fearing prison breaks and a resurgent ISIS, the US has effectively decided to offshore up to 7,000 human beings to Baghdad to prevent them from becoming a renewed liability. The physical reality is Iraq shares a 600-kilometre border with Syria, where ISIS activity is reportedly on the rise. While the US State Department welcomed Iraqs bold initiative (to respond to its own actions), under international law the transfer of individuals across a sovereign border to a jurisdiction where they face a risk of torture or the death penalty both of which remain features of the Iraqi counter-terrorism courts, with recent executions documented by human rights groups is a violation of non-refoulement obligations. In January 2026, UN Special Rapporteurs expressed concern that these mass renditions, reportedly well-funded by the US, lack a transparent screening process. This transfer of ISIS detainees serves as the high-stakes backdrop for a Global Coalition against Daesh meeting in Riyadh, on Monday 9 February, attended by the UKs Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer, as confirmed to Justice Info by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The United States is expected to lead a major diplomatic offensive, pressuring third-party states to finally fulfil their repatriation obligations rather than allowing their nationals to remain a long-term Iraqi burden and perhaps also a legal risk to themselves. Human rights organizations have repeatedly sounded the alarm about detention centers holding thousands of Islamic State (IS) suspects in northeastern Syria. Here, in Hasakeh, in 2019. Photo: Fadel Senna / AFP A record of mass abuse In the brutal aftermath of the territorial defeat of ISIS, Iraq was confronted with a justice dilemma of immense proportions and its primary legal tool for ISIS prosecutions has relied on the 2005 Anti-Terrorism Law, a broadly defined statute that criminalises vague forms of association, from direct participation in acts of violence to associated conduct, such as logistical support to affiliation, often defined so broadly to include civilians living under ISIS rule. This definition fails to distinguish between ideological fighters and coerced affiliates, low-level members, and even entirely uninvolved family. Mass trials under have resulted in the imprisonment of over 20,000 people, primarily Sunni men, in trials lacking sufficient guarantees. Reports by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International set out these systemic abuses, and how thousands have been convicted in trials often lasting less than two minutes based on ISIS-affiliation, rather than individual criminal conduct, many on the basis of confessions obtained under torture or from secret informants. Given Iraq's track record of flawed trials and use of torture-tainted evidence in terrorism related trials that has sent thousands to death row, of course there are concerns, Razaw Salihy, Amnesty International's Iraq Researcher, told Justice Info. As we are at the investigative stage, according to the SJC statement, this is an important moment for Iraq to break from this pattern and uphold their duty to victims of IS by holding perpetrators of IS crimes accountable in fair trials without recourse to the death penalty. Iraq has been repatriating its nationals over recent years, however an Amnesty investigation into the Al-Jadaa rehabilitation centre in Iraq, found that even those deemed eligible for reintegration are subjected to enforced disappearance, arbitrary arrest and torture. Overcrowding, tuberculosis outbreaks and poor sanitation are already rampant in the Iraqi carceral system, and there is a possibility, too, that among the individuals transferred are or were children at the time of their detention. Jurisdiction and amnesty laws The jurisdictional wonder of the current situation is most visible in the nationality of the detainees, with initial reports indicating that out of the first thousand plus transfers, only a handful of returnees are Iraqi nationals. The rest are a mixture of Syrians and third-country nationals from states including Tunisia, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. Under Iraqi law, the judiciary lacks the specific codes to prosecute foreign nationals for crimes committed outside of its borders. To circumvent this, the state may rely on the continuous crime loophole within the Anti-Terrorism Law, defining membership of ISIS as an ongoing affiliation and a crime that continues regardless of geography. This creates a dubious basis to try foreign nationals for actions committed elsewhere, potentially bypassing the need for evidence or relying on the low evidentiary threshold of affiliation which has previously seen coerced supporters and children included. Lately, however, Iraqs legal system has tried to improve, as is clear in recent General Amnesty Law debates. Iraq has implemented several amnesty laws as part of a national reconciliation effort following the 2003 US-led invasion. The 2008 Amnesty Law was a key demand from the Sunni bloc to rejoin the government. US pressure led to an amendment excluding any insurgents involved in killing US or Iraqi security forces, limiting its impact. This was followed by a 2016 Amnesty Law, intended to benefit followers of Moqtada al-Sadr, a leading Shia political leader and cleric. Unlike 2008, the 2016 law included a provision allowing retrials for those who claimed their confessions were extracted under torture or false information, demonstrating a shift towards addressing injustice during the years of sectarian conflict. The law was further amended in 2017, and on 21 January 2025, Iraqs MPs amended the General Amnesty Law to expand the eligibility again. By early July 2025, around 28,000 individuals had been released from the countrys prisons. As of February 2026, they were around 41,300. Many families of detainees, though unconnected to ISIS crimes, have been forcibly disappeared or tortured and on the lesser scale, may have still faced property confiscation and social ostracisation with their claims to victimhood denied, in contrast to other more palatable communities. In the same way that the creation of Iraqs Martyrs Foundation in 2005 marked the formalisation of victim recognition within the post-2003 state, Iraqs Law No 20 of 2009 shows how even seemingly inclusive legislation often reproduces hierarchies of victimhood when implemented in a partisan system. The systemic inability to deliver nuanced, survivor-centred justice under these conditions, is also evident by the fact that UNITAD's evidence is not usable in Iraq's legal system. No role for the UN UNITAD was established by the UN Security Council in 2017 and tasked with collecting evidence of ISIS crimes in Iraq, with an emphasis on core international crimes genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. By the time the Investigative Team concluded its mandate in September 2024, it was blamed for having failed survivors. As part of the same body, coordination between the National Centre and the Iraqi judiciary is more streamlined than the previously fraught relationship the latter had with UNITAD. The National Centre, housed in the former UNITAD building in Baghdad, was established to inherit the digitised evidence repository collected in the project that cost the international community hundreds of millions of dollars. However, while the National Centre holds some digitised records of atrocities, the investigations for the transferred detainees are being led by Iraqs counter-terrorism and intelligence agencies. UNITADs evidence had been intended to support the prosecution of ISIS members by the Iraqi legal system. However, significant challenges arose regarding the transfer and use of its evidence domestically. The national system still lacks the statutes to prosecute international crimes, meaning that the UNITAD team contributed to no domestic trials and only a handful of foreign prosecutions. Even when UNITAD was based in Baghdad, the absence of Iraqi domestic provisions always meant that most of their evidence was inadmissible in Iraqi courts. While Iraq failed to pass the needed laws, UNITAD never found a way to engage meaningfully with the legal system it was supposed to support. In a post UNAMI and UNITAD Iraq, there is very little the UN can do in Iraq whatever happens next will be a consequence of failings before, or a new opportunity for Iraq to step up. The way forward Without the legislative tools to move beyond the Anti-Terrorism Law, even the best intentioned judges will remain part of a system designed for security elimination as opposed to atrocity recognition. In a statement released last week, the Criminal Justice Working Group of the Coalition for Just Reparations (C4JR), an alliance of Iraqi organisations, expressed concern that detainees will be prosecuted exclusively under Iraqs counter-terrorism legislation, and for the jurisdictional challenges this raises. While counter-terrorism frameworks can facilitate swift convictions for membership, they cannot reflect the full gravity and systematic nature of ISIS committed crimes, amounting to war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, C4JR warns. For survivor communities, a sentence based on affiliation risks erasing the atrocities enslavement, executions and displacement that define the ISIS legacy. C4JR continues to call for the passage of the International Crimes draft law, currently stalled in Iraqs State Council. Should the draft law incorporate principles of universal jurisdiction, which would allow Iraq to lawfully and credibly prosecute individuals for the most serious crimes regardless of their nationality or where the crime occurred, the coalition believes Iraq has an opportunity to align its justice system with international human rights standards. Without moving to focus on these core international crimes, the coalition warns that Iraq risks falling short of the highest standards it has committed to uphold upon its recent election to the UN Human Rights Council. Is there an ethical way out? There are no easy answers in Baghdad. In a final irony, this rendition might also inadvertently provide the only path to protection for foreign detainees as established embassies, faced with their nationals in Iraqi custody rather that North-East Syria, can no longer avoid their obligations. The US transfers to Iraq show the contradictions and harms of their approach to post-conflict accountability namely, an inconsistent, politically selective, commitment to justice and how international laws preference for prosecutions and resistance to amnesties may be ill-suited to contexts like Iraq, impacted by legacies of occupation. Societies do not rupture in a vacuum, and the emergence of ISIS is part of a continuum following the 2003 invasion. It emerged out of the violence of sanctions, invasion, occupation, and global complicity in Iraqs destruction. The challenges of post-conflict justice in Iraq, therefore, also exposes the fundamental tension between imposed Western legal models and local agency. Time and time again individuals accused of ISIS-affiliation, or seen as too close to perpetrators, have been excluded from justice processes, documentation and sympathy. These latest transfers present Iraq a chance to change this. US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Armenia on Monday, before a scheduled trip to Azerbaijan, as Washington seeks to consolidate a peace process between the neighbours. Vance is the most senior US official to visit Armenia, where he is also expected to advance a flagship project to improve road and rail infrastructure in the region. His visit to Armenia -- until recently a close Russia ally -- comes as Moscow's influence has dwindled in the region since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. At a White House summit in August 2025, US President Donald Trump brokered an agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan that saw the two countries commit to renouncing claims on each other's territory and refrain from using force. The arch-foes have fought two wars over the Karabakh region in recent years. Azerbaijan finally seized the mountainous territory in a lightning offensive in 2023, ending three decades of rule by Armenian separatists. On Monday, Vance held talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and will head to Azerbaijan's capital Baku on Tuesday. "We are not just making peace for Armenia. We are also creating real prosperity for Armenia and the United States together," Vance told a news conference alongside Pashinyan. He announced a US drone technology sale to Armenia worth $11 million. Pashinyan called the visit "truly historic" and said he had "great hope" that President Donald Trump would "rightfully" receive the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace process. The two also signed a civil nuclear energy agreement, which Pashinyan said "will open a new chapter in the deepening energy partnership between Armenia and the United States". - Regional communications - The US State Department said the visit would "advance President Donald Trump's peace efforts and promote the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)". The TRIPP is a proposed road-and-rail corridor designed to link Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave, cut off from the mainland by Armenian territory, while integrating the region into a wider east-west trade route connecting Central Asia and the Caspian basin to Europe. Washington has presented the project as a confidence-building measure following decades of conflict between the two countries. Azerbaijan sees the opening of regional communications as the main precondition for signing a comprehensive peace treaty with its rival. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan announced in January an implementation framework for TRIPP, building on commitments made at the White House summit last year. The framework stresses sovereignty, territorial integrity and reciprocity, while promising economic gains for both Armenia and Azerbaijan through expanded trade and transit. - Shifting alignments - US officials say the route would also strengthen regional connectivity and bolster American commercial interests by opening new supply chains that bypass Russia and Iran. Few details of Vance's programme have been disclosed but the visit comes as Washington seeks a larger diplomatic and economic footprint in the South Caucasus and as regional alignments shift. More than 20 Armenian human rights groups sent an open letter urging Vance to help secure the release of Armenian detainees in Azerbaijani jails. A handful of Karabakh refugees held a rally outside the meeting venue, urging Vance to press for the prisoners' release. Last week, an Azerbaijani military court handed lengthy sentences, including life jail terms, to Armenian separatist leaders in a war crimes trial. Armenia -- historically Russia's outpost in the South Caucasus -- has frozen its participation in a Moscow-led security pact and moved to deepen ties with the United States and the European Union. Russia's influence across the former Soviet Union has been strained since its invasion of Ukraine, which has spooked many of the countries that were for decades dominated by Moscow. Vance will not go to Georgia, which was once Washington's key ally in the region. US-Georgian ties have faltered after what US officials have described as Tbilisi's democratic backsliding and a pro-Russian tilt, prompting Washington to suspend a strategic partnership agreement. An 80-year-old man suspected of being a "weekend sniper" who paid the Bosnian Serb army to shoot civilians during the 1990s siege of Sarajevo was questioned Monday in Milan, media reported. The octogenarian former truck driver from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeast Italy, is suspected by Milan prosecutors of "voluntary homicide aggravated by abject motives", according to Italian news agency ANSA. Lawyer Giovanni Menegon told journalists that his client had answered questions from prosecutors and police and "reaffirmed his complete innocence". Milan prosecutors did not respond to AFP requests for comment. In October, prosecutors opened an investigation into what Italian media dubbed "weekend snipers" or "war tourists": mostly wealthy, gun-loving, far-right sympathisers who allegedly gathered in Trieste and were taken to the hills surrounding Sarajevo where they fired on civilians for sport. During the nearly four-year siege of Sarajevo that began in April 1992 some 11,541 men, women and children were killed and more than 50,000 people wounded by Bosnian Serb forces, according to official figures. Il Giornale newspaper reported last year that the would-be snipers paid Bosnian Serb forces up to the equivalent of 100,000 euros ($115,000) per day to shoot at civilians below them. The suspect -- described by the Italian press as a hunting enthusiast who is nostalgic for Fascism -- is said to have boasted publicly about having gone "man hunting". Witness statements, particularly from residents of his village, helped investigators to track the suspect, freelance journalist Marianna Maiorino told AFP. - In Bosnia 'for work' - "According to the testimonies, he would tell his friends at the village bar about what he did during the war in the Balkans," said Maiorino, who researched the allegations and was herself questioned as part of the investigation. The suspect is "described as a sniper, someone who enjoyed going to Sarajevo to kill people," she added. The suspect told local newspaper Messaggero Veneto Sunday he had been to Bosnia during the war, but "for work, not for hunting". He added that his public statements had been exaggerated and he was "not worried". The investigation opened last year followed a complaint filed by Italian journalist and writer Ezio Gavanezzi, based on allegations revealed in the documentary "Sarajevo Safari" by Slovenian director Miran Zupanic in 2022. Gavanezzi was contacted in August 2025 by the former mayor of Sarajevo, Benjamina Karic, who filed a complaint in Bosnia in 2022 after the same documentary was broadcast. The Bosnia and Herzegovina prosecutor's office confirmed to AFP on Friday that a special war crimes department was investigating alleged foreign snipers during the siege of Sarajevo. Bosnian prosecutors requested information from Italian counterparts at the end of last year, while also contacting the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in The Hague, it said. That body performs some of the functions previously carried out by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Sarajevo City Council adopted a decision last month authorising the current mayor, Samir Avdic, to "join the criminal proceedings" before the Italian courts in order to support Italian prosecutors. Prosecutors in a war crimes trial on Monday sought a 45-year sentence for Kosovo's ex-president and guerrilla leader Hashim Thaci and three other former senior rebel figures, as the case in The Hague nears its end. All four face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, over their alleged responsibility for killings, torture and other abuses committed by Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) members during the 1990s war with Serbia. As the trial heard closing statements -- the last phase before it retires to decide its verdict -- specialist prosecutor Kimberly West said they were seeking the same lengthy sentence for all the men, who are all aged over 50. "The gravity of the charges has not diminished with the passage of time," West told the court. - A rebel leader turned statesman - Thaci, 57, who wore a charcoal suit, white shirt, and red tie, listened as proceedings began. Closing arguments from all parties are scheduled for this week and next -- with Thaci and his co-accused defence expected to begin delivering their statements later this week. Thaci was the political leader of the KLA during the war against Serbia; the other three men held senior roles in the rebel group. The hearing is scheduled to end by mid-February, and the court will have a month further to deliberate before delivering its verdict. That deadline could be extended by two months under exceptional circumstances. Thaci, who immediately resigned from the presidency after his indictment in 2020, and his co-accused pleaded not guilty at the opening of the trial. They are all expected to do the same in their closing statements. - Efforts to 'dilute' testimony - Established by the country's parliament, the Kosovo Specialist Chambers investigates and prosecutes suspected war crimes committed by ethnic Albanian guerrillas during the war. Although part of Kosovo's judicial system, it is physically located in The Hague and staffed solely by international judges and supporting staff in a bid to protect witnesses from possible retribution at home. Still, West said that investigators had also uncovered "clear efforts" to "dilute, or otherwise influence certain testimony, in particular to the accused Hashim Thaci's benefit". The indictment alleges that KLA members committed crimes against hundreds of civilians and non-combatants -- including Serbs, Roma and Kosovo Albanians deemed political opponents -- at detention sites in Kosovo and northern Albania. "This case is about the four accused's goal to gain and exercise control over all of Kosovo," West said. - 'Scandalous' - In the Balkan nation's capital, where the men are still widely seen as heroes of the country's independence struggle, former KLA members gathered to watch the trial together on television. The group's leader Hysni Gucati said the accusations levelled at the men were "scandalous". "This only pleases Serbia, and all those who are against Kosovo," Gucati told local media from the veterans' downtown headquarters. While the country's president Vjosa Osmani said any attempt to compare the KLA's "liberation war" with actions of the "genocidal Serbian aggressor" was harmful to long-term peace. "The KLA's war was just and pure," she added. "This truth cannot be changed by attempts to rewrite history and tarnish and devalue the struggle of the people of Kosovo for freedom." A large march in Pristina to support the men is planned in the closing days of the hearings. The atrocities unleashed on Sudan's El-Fasher last October were a "preventable human rights catastrophe", the UN rights chief said Monday, warning they now risked being repeated in Kordofan. Giving the UN Human Rights Council an update on the situation in El-Fasher, Volker Turk decried the horrific scenes after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) unleashed a "wave of intense violence", following 18 months of brutal siege. "Thousands of people were killed in a matter of days, and tens of thousands fled in terror," he said, stressing the need to "hold those responsible accountable, and to make sure this never happens again". Ahead of closed-door UN Security Council meetings on Sudan, British deputy envoy to the UN James Kariuki said "this deliberate cruelty is designed to exacerbate an already insufferable situation. Starvation must never be used as a weapon of war." The Sudanese regular army and the RSF have been at war since April 2023, with the conflict killing tens of thousands of people, displacing millions more and triggering one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said that during a recent visit to Sudan, he had heard first-hand accounts from survivors of the El-Fasher violence, and had "rarely seen people so traumatised". "They consistently reported mass killings and summary executions of civilians both inside the city and as people fled", Turk said. - Warning 'ignored' - "Survivors also spoke of seeing piles of dead bodies along roads leading away from El-Fasher, in an apocalyptic scene that one person likened to the Day of Judgment," he said. He maintained that "sexual violence was systematically used as a weapon of war by the RSF", and said his staff had also documented the recruitment and use of children by the RSF. Turk said his office's findings were consistent with the International Criminal Court assessment that "both war crimes and crimes against humanity" had taken place in El-Fasher. While the RSF was responsible for the atrocities committed in El-Fasher, he insisted that the international community had a responsibility to "do better". "If we stand by, wringing our hands while armies and armed groups commit well-flagged international crimes, we can only expect worse to come," he warned. - 'Prevent a repeat' - Turk said he was currently "extremely concerned that these violations and abuses may be repeated in the Kordofan region", where fighting has intensified since the capture of El-Fasher in the neighbouring Darfur region. In just over two weeks leading up to February 6, Turk said his office had documented "some 90 civilians were killed and 142 injured in drone strikes". The strikes, which were carried out by both the RSF and the Sudanese army, "struck a World Food Programme convoy, markets, health facilities and residential neighbourhoods in South and North Kordofan", he said. Kariuki, speaking for Britain which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council, said in New York that "we condemn recent drone strikes across Sudan, including a reported RSF attack on the WFP, a World Food Program aid convoy on Friday, which killed an aid worker, and another attack in North Kordofan, which killed 24 people, including eight children." Britain had imposed new sanctions against six individuals suspected of committing atrocities and fueling conflict through the supply of mercenaries and military equipment, he said. Cameroonian separatist leader Lucas Cho Ayaba, detained in Norway for allegedly inciting crimes against humanity, is now also suspected of war crimes, police and his lawyer said Monday. Francophone-majority Cameroon has been gripped since 2016 by a bloody conflict in its two anglophone regions, in the northwest and southwest, between separatists and state forces. At least 6,000 civilians have been killed since the conflict began, according to Human Rights Watch. Lucas Cho Ayaba, also know as Cho Lucas Yabah, was arrested in September 2024 and has been detained since then with Norwegian authorities arguing he was a flight risk. The Kripos police unit that deals with war crimes and crimes against humanity, said a man in his fifties, who had been in detention since September 2024 on suspicion of incitement to commit crimes against humanity, was now suspected of additional crimes. "The new indictment concerns... war crimes," a statement said, adding that the suspect was believed to have a "central role in an ongoing armed conflict in Cameroon." It said the new suspicions included attempted murder and deprivation of liberty. "Norway has an international responsibility to ensure that we are not a safe haven for individuals who commit war crimes and crimes against humanity," police prosecutor Anette Berger said. Berger noted that the case was the first of its kind in Norway. Ayaba's lawyer, Morten Engesbak, confirmed to AFP that the suspect in question was his client. "He rejects the charges of incitement to crimes against humanity and incitement to war crimes," Engesbak said. Police also requested that his detention be extended for another eight weeks. The conflict in Cameroon erupted after President Paul Biya, who has ruled for more than four decades, violently suppressed peaceful protests by English speakers, many of whom feel marginalised. The anglophone community comprises about 20 percent of the population. Ayaba is the leader of the Ambazonia Defence Forces, one of the main armed groups operating in the anglophone areas. Armed groups fighting for an independent anglophone Cameroon have frequently kidnapped or killed politicians, civil servants and teachers accused of collaborating with the government. In turn, the army and police are accused of carrying out punishing raids on people accused of being separatist sympathisers. Sunday, February 8, 2026 - Detectives have arrested three individuals accused of extorting money from unsuspecting bar owners and members of the public, moving like predators from one establishment to another. The trio was reported to be cruising through the township in a white Toyota Axio, flashing confidence and fear in equal measure, as they extorted bar owners their hard-earned cash. Responding swiftly, detectives swooped in, arresting the suspects, identified as Samuel Ogando Odoyo, a member of the Kenya Defence Forces; Onyango Nelson Kasera, a police officer; and Joseph Mulwa Mwambi, a civilian. Further scrutiny peeled back the layers of deception. The vehicle they were using bore a fake registration number, KDB 648W, while its true identity was established as KDD 574W. A search of the car unearthed a black pistol holster, a pair of handcuffs, and other items. The suspects were immediately taken into custody and later subjected to an identification parade, where the victims positively identified them. They are now undergoing processing as detectives prepare to present them before court. Via DCI The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, February 9, 2026 - The education fraternity is mourning the sudden death of Kibabii University Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor David Namasaka, whose passing has left colleagues, students and family in deep shock. Prof. Namasaka reportedly died on January 24th, 2026, after developing chest pains. The veteran academic was widely respected for his contribution to higher education and his years of dedicated service at the institution. As burial preparations continue, family members, friends and colleagues have been gathering at his rural home, where he had built a palatial residence. A photo of the impressive home has since circulated online, symbolising the fruits of his years of hard work. His death has sparked reflection among many, with the phrase all is vanity echoing the reality that no matter ones achievements or wealth, life remains unpredictable. May his soul rest in peace. See photo. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 8, 2026 - Residents of Huruma Estate in Nairobi are living in fear as criminal gangs unleash terror on local businesses and innocent members of the public. A video circulating online shows armed thugs moving in groups as they raid shops at night, while terrified members of the public scream and flee. The video highlights the brazen nature of the attacks, with some criminals believed to be carrying weapons. The rise in nighttime raids has left traders anxious and struggling to keep their businesses safe. Residents are calling for increased security and urgent police intervention. Watch the video>>> below Happening Now: Armed thugs are patrolling the streets of Huruma, breaking into shops and stealing some few hours ago pic.twitter.com/HxDFvkNogV Abdulahi Adan (@AbdulahiAdan10) February 8, 2026 The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 8, 2026 - City lawyer and Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) lecturer, Esther Muchiri, has spoken out following online claims that her marriage ended due to alleged infidelity. Reports circulating on social media had suggested that her ex-husband, lawyer Norman Otieno, divorced her after catching her in a compromising situation with one of her male students. However, Esther has strongly denied the allegations, dismissing them as false and malicious. She accused her former husband and some of his associates of attempting to tarnish her reputation through what she described as a smear campaign. According to Esther, the claims are intended to damage both her personal life and professional standing as a lecturer and advocate. Those who know me from CUEA will tell you the kind of person I am. I consider and treat those guys like my sons and daughters. I can never do what is written about me, she said. She also firmly denied allegations that she engages in inappropriate relationships with her students. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 8, 2026 - Shocking claims continue to rock Kenyas legal fraternity after more junior female lawyers came forward with disturbing allegations exploitation by senior colleagues. In emotional testimonies shared online, the young advocates accused some powerful lawyers of preying on them in exchange for jobs. Read more confessions. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 08, 2026 - Suna East MP, Junet Mohamed, has dismissed the revival of the Azimio La Umoja Coalition Party and the appointment of Wiper leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, as its new head, terming the move unprocedural and selfserving. Azimio, a coalition of more than 16 parties, was the ticket under which later former Prime Minister Raila Odinga contested the 2022 presidency. The alliance remained active after the election, leading antiGovernment protests until July 2024, when it went dormant following Railas political pact with President William Ruto. On February 2nd, former president Uhuru Kenyatta, acting as Azimio Council chairman, announced Kalonzo as coalition leader. Junet, however, laughed off the appointment, accusing Kalonzo of ignoring the coalitions founding deed deposited with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). Kalonzo, as senior counsel, you know Azimio has a legal document with ORPP. You chose not to follow its provisions in making the changes you claim, Junet said. He further criticized Kalonzo for blaming President Rutos administration after the Government printer declined to gazette his appointment. Junet, who served as Azimios Secretary General, questioned Kalonzos sudden interest in reviving Azimio months after declaring it dead. He urged him to stick to his Wiper Party instead of attempting to resurrect Azimio for selfish gain. ODM has also contested the leadership changes. In a letter to the Registrar dated February 5th, ODM Executive Director, Oduor Ongwen, argued that the meeting that endorsed Kalonzos appointment was invalid, stressing that coalition leadership decisions must be made collectively by all constituent parties. The party has urged the Registrar to suspend any actions arising from the disputed meeting until the coalitions deed of agreement is fully respected. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, February 09, 2026 - A viral video of a Kisii woman preaching inside a Nairobi matatu has left netizens in stitches. Its not unusual to encounter preachers in matatus along certain city routes, but this particular woman stood out thanks to her witty delivery and unmistakable Kisii accent. She began by catching passengers attention with humorous remarks before diving into a Bible verse, blending faith with comedy in a way that few could ignore. At first, some commuters tried to brush her off, but her sharp oneliners and playful tone quickly won them over. From the reactions captured in the clip, it was clear she had mastered her craft - turning what might have been an ordinary ride into an unforgettable experience. This style of preaching has become common in Nairobis public transport, where evangelists mix gospel messages with humor to connect with passengers. Often, after delivering their sermon, they request offerings before alighting, a practice that has become part of the matatu culture. This is yet another reminder of how everyday Nairobi life is filled with unexpected moments. Watch the video>>> below. Aren't we? This bus pastors tho! Ati Musa in the bible married a kisii Lady... Hata Kama nikutafuta UNGA! HUYU NI COMEDIAN pic.twitter.com/BvBB8BpB1y Kawangware Finest - Geoffrey Moturi (@cbs_ke) February 8, 2026 The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 8, 2026 - City lawyers Lilian Oluoch and Jane Kimori are facing public scrutiny following allegations that they engage in inappropriate conduct with male interns at their Mombasa-based law firm. The two advocates, who are co-partners at Oluoch Kimori Advocates located at Texas Alarm Building along Fidel Road in Nyali, have been accused by some former interns of allegedly using their positions of authority to hit on them. According to claims circulating online, some interns felt pressured by what they described as uncomfortable advances and a toxic work environment. One former intern further alleged that Jane Kimori was a micromanager and very rude. She is a very cruel lady who mistreats young advocates. Dont apply for pupilage there, he said. Check out complaints from former interns. Lillian Oluoch. Jane Kimori. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 08, 2026 - Media personality, Sheila Kwamboka, popularly known as Kwambox, has stirred conversation with a powerful message to Christians, urging them to reflect on their faith and question whether their devotion is truly directed to God or misplaced on pastors. In her Instagram post shared on Sunday, February 8th, 2026, Kwambox warned believers against blindly following church leaders, stressing the need for discernment in worship. Am I worshipping God or my pastor? Is your pastor of God? Remember, they are all just interpreting the word. There is no new word. Kwambox emphasized that pastors are human and only interpret scripture. She reminded worshippers that the Bible remains the ultimate authority, urging them to read it personally and seek understanding through prayer rather than relying solely on pulpit declarations. She challenged popular claims such as God told me to tell you, asking whether true servants of God would admit when they had not heard from Him. Her message urged believers to think critically about such statements instead of accepting them without reflection. She added that the church should be a place of fellowship and Bible study, not a stage for unverified miracles or hierarchical displays of authority. Church is fellowship and Bible study, not a theatre of unconfirmed miracles and hierarchical connections to the Almighty. Read your Bible pray for discernment! With love, Kwambox. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 08, 2026 - Nairobi County Governments Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Care, Geoffrey Mosiria, has issued a blunt warning to men about the hidden risks lurking behind their partners fitness routines. In a viral social media post, Mosiria claimed that gyms across the city have quietly become hotspots for cheating. According to Mosiria, the problem begins with hardworking men who leave home early, spend long days chasing wealth, and return late at night too exhausted to notice whats happening in their absence. At first, it looks innocent and healthy, Mosiria wrote. But behind the scenes, there is a reality many men are too busy to see. He argued that loneliness at home often pushes wives and girlfriends to seek companionship elsewhere, with gym instructors stepping in to fill the emotional void. What starts as a fitness journey, Mosiria warned, can morph into attachment, leaving women physically fit but emotionally distant from their partners. Mosiria painted a grim picture of couples sharing a bed yet sleeping facing the wall, their backs touching but their hearts worlds apart. Beyond emotional fallout, he raised financial concerns - suggesting that mens hard-earned money sometimes ends up funding another mans lifestyle through gifts and favors. Mosiria asked men to make surprise visits to the gym, attend sessions together, consider home workouts, or hire female trainers to minimize risks. Protect your relationship the same way you protect your wealth, he urged. Money can be recovered. Trust cannot. His warning comes after a KDF officer in Umoja recently killed a gym trainer accused of having an affair with his wife. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 08, 2026 - The Kenyan Government has announced fresh diplomatic efforts following alarming reports of citizens irregularly recruited to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war. On Sunday, February 8th, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir SingOei confirmed that Nairobi is intensifying engagements to secure the release of Kenyans caught up in the conflict. Over the next couple of weeks, we shall be expanding our diplomatic efforts to pursue the release of Kenyans irregularly recruited to serve on the frontlines, he said. The announcement comes after Ukraines Defence Intelligence revealed that two Kenyans - Ombwori Denis Bagaka and Wahome Simon Gititu - were killed near Lyman in Donetsk. Their bodies were found alongside another Kenyan, Clinton Nyapara Mogesa. Investigations show the three were lured from stable security jobs in Qatar to Russia, where they were recruited under contracts signed by Kyrgyz citizen, Salizhan Uulu Almamet. Reports indicate Almamet even gained control of their bank accounts before sending them to a training ground in Voronezh. The Kenyans were placed in a penal battalion, notorious for sending prisoners and foreign mercenaries on one-way missions. After minimal training, they were deployed to storm Lyman, where they were eliminated in what Ukrainian forces described as a kill-zone. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, February 8, 2026 - Former Mwea Member of Parliament, Peter Njuguna Gitau, is among five suspects arrested by detectives in connection with the theft of two Isuzu lorries in Muranga County. The suspects were apprehended following a meticulous investigation into a brazen theft that occurred in Gatanga on August 16th, 2025. The stolen vehicles, an Isuzu FVZ (registration KDQ 845T) and an Isuzu FRR (registration KDL 078W), were later traced to Makupa in Mombasa County. Detectives revealed that the suspects had attempted to conceal the trucks by fitting them with counterfeit registration plates KDV 449C and KCA 505D to evade detection. Alongside the former legislator, the other suspects arrested are Mark Kinyua, Erick Chege, David Kigo, and Joseph Ndungu Waweru, who investigators believe were key players in the alleged theft syndicate. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Gatanga has since taken custody of the recovered lorries and plans are underway to return them to their rightful owners. Meanwhile, the five suspects remain in police custody pending arraignment in court. Other suspects. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, February 09, 2026 - A Kenyan truck driver living in the United States has been sentenced to six years in state prison after a deadly road-rage crash on the New Jersey Turnpike. Joseph Nyandwaro, 41, a resident of Pearland, Texas, was convicted following the June 22nd, 2025 collision that claimed the life of fellow trucker Osman Aden, 40. The incident unfolded along the northbound lanes in Woolwich Township, Gloucester County, where investigators say Nyandwaro deliberately rammed Adens tractor-trailer during a heated confrontation. Dash-camera footage recovered from both trucks proved pivotal in the case. The video captured the sequence of events and even showed Nyandwaro laughing moments after the crash. Authorities noted it remains unclear whether he realized Aden had died at the time. Police later discovered paint from Adens truck on Nyandwaros vehicle and accused him of attempting to conceal evidence using duct tape and cleaning solutions. Nyandwaro eventually pleaded guilty to second-degree vehicular homicide. A Gloucester County Superior Court judge handed down the six-year sentence, closing a case that shocked both the trucking industry and the Kenyan community in diaspora. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, February 09, 2026 - Former Machakos First Lady, Lillian Nganga, has sparked debate after calling for schools to adopt stronger safety measures, including installing surveillance cameras in classrooms and school buses. In a post shared on Monday, February 9th, 2026, Nganga urged parents to take a more active role in monitoring the environments where their children spend most of their time. She questioned how often parents actually inspect school buses, noting that many may not be aware of the daily conditions their children face. Seat belts, are they working? Are they even there in the first place? she asked, pointing out that she has witnessed children squeezed together, some lying across seats without belts. She described scenes where kids sit on top of one another, exposing them to unnecessary risks. Nganga linked her concerns to the tragic Endarasha fire incident, where children lost their lives, stressing that safety lapses often have devastating consequences. Beyond transport, she raised questions about whether parents are granted access to key areas within schools, such as dormitories, play areas and dining halls. Do parents have access to the dormitories, the play areas, the dining halls, just the whole school environment? she asked, highlighting the need for transparency. Her proposal includes installing cameras in classrooms to increase accountability and allow parents to monitor learning spaces remotely. She also encouraged parents to occasionally board school buses themselves to assess conditions firsthand. The Kenyan DAILY POST Olivia Kelleher A sitting of the Central Criminal Court in Cork has heard that the trial of a 31-year-old man charged with the murder of a pensioner could take up to three weeks. Aaron Wolfe of Glentrasna Court, The Glen, Cork, appeared before the court on Monday, having previously been charged with the murder in 2023 of West Cork native Florence 'Florrie' O'Sullivan. Wolfe is charged with the murder of OSullivan (68) at Glentrasna Court on March 11th, 2023. OSullivan died at Cork University Hospital (CUH) on April 6th, 2023, having been transferred onsite with injuries. OSullivan was originally from Adrigole but had lived in Cork city for a number of years as well as in Carrigaline in the county. OSullivan was found lying unresponsive on the street at Glentrasna Court shortly after 8pm on March 11th, 2023. He was taken to hospital for treatment. Following his death a post mortem examination was carried out at CUH by Assistant State Pathologist, Dr Margaret Bolster. The findings of the postmortem were not released for operational reasons. However, the case was upgraded to a murder probe. Aaron Wolfe was subsequently charged with the murder of OSullivan. A previous charge of assault causing harm was withdrawn by the State On Monday at the Central Criminal Court in Cork, Prosecution senior counsel Jane Hyland, asked that the case be adjourned to a sitting of the court on February 16th next. Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford granted the application. O'Sullivan was laid to rest at Kilcaskin Cemetery on April 10th, 2023, after a requiem mass at St Fachtna's Church in Adrigole. At the time of his death he was survived by two brothers and a sister, a brother and sister in law as well as extended family and friends. A ceremony for the awarding of Michelin Star Awards for Great Britain & Ireland in 2026 is being hosted in Dublin on Monday night for the first time since the coveted awards began in 1974. The prestigious event, known as the "Oscars of the food world", is being held at the Convention Centre, where the Michelin Guide will unveil new Michelin Stars, with plenty of local interest, as only a handful of counties in Ireland don't boast a Michelin Star restaurant. Ireland's top eateries and chefs will all be in attendance for the glitzy and exclusive affair and we've got a team on the ground bringing you all the results from across Great Britain & Ireland. READ NEXT: Irish celebrity chef announces shock closure of restaurant after almost 30 years in business The Michelin Guide rating system began in France in 1926 and one star signifies "a very good restaurant", two stars signify "excellent cooking that is worth a detour" and three stars mean "exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey". CHECK OUT OUR LIVE BLOG BELOW: Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A Kilkenny man has admitted he is living in fear for his life after being detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last September. Seamus Culleton, who is married to a US citizen, has lived in the US for 20 years and held a Massachusetts driving license and a valid work permit at the time of his arrest. Mr Culleton remains in custody after being pulled over by ICE on the way home from working at the plastering business he owns. He was subsequently taken to a detention centre in New York and latterly El Paso. READ NEXT: 'DON'T ENGAGE' - warning issued to Kilkenny people over scam phone calls The Glenmore native told RTE's Liveline programme that living conditions in the centre are like a 'modern day concentration camp.' "I'm in fear for my life here, people have been killed by staff here," he told the programme. "I've been locked in the same room now for four and a half months. I've had barely any outside time. No fresh air, no sunshine. "I'm just locked in this room all day, every day," he explained. "The conditions here are filthy," he added. More to follow... FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE The South Easts next wave of business growth is underway with the launch of Phase Two of the Business Advantage and Sustainability South East programme, known as BASSE 2026. The launch took place at GreenTechHQ, the regions centre of expertise for business, innovation, sustainability and AI, and was attended by Micheal Martin TD, highlighting the programmes national significance. Ed Murphy, Founder and Liz McGonigal, Head of Sustainability and Operations at GreenTechHQ with participants of BASSE BASSE is an Enterprise Ireland funded accelerator designed specifically for scaling small and medium sized enterprises in the South East. Delivered by GreenTechHQ, it is the first programme in Ireland to combine commercial acceleration with sustainability as a core business driver, not an add-on. Aine Denn and Leonora O'Brien, of Blazer with Ed Murphy, Founder GreenTechHQ and Donal Quinn and Erin Maher of ENSO Impact The focus is clear: help ambitious SMEs grow revenue, strengthen leadership teams and create jobs, while embedding long term resilience through smarter energy use, lower emissions, fair work practices and strong governance. Over the next three to five years, BASSE is projected to support the creation of more than 300 new jobs across the region, with participating companies expected to double revenues as a result of improved strategy, operational performance and leadership capability. The programme is aimed at established businesses that have moved beyond start-up stage and are ready to scale. Participants receive hands-on support from experienced mentors and experts across commercial strategy, operations, sustainability planning and leadership development, all grounded in real-world business challenges. Ian Mernagh, CEO and Ed Murphy, Founder of GreenTechHQ Rather than approaching sustainability as a regulatory burden, BASSE positions it as a source of competitive advantage. By helping businesses reduce costs, manage risk and future-proof operations, the programme demonstrates that growth and responsibility can and should progress together. Through BASSE, GreenTechHQ is reinforcing the South Easts reputation as a region that leads on practical, commercially grounded innovation. The programme supports enterprises across sectors including manufacturing, agri-food, technology and professional services, all with a shared ambition to scale sustainably. Applications for upcoming BASSE cohorts will open shortly, with strong interest already emerging from across the region. More information on BASSE and GreenTechHQ is available at BASSE - GreenTechHQ GreenTechHQ Ed Murphy, Founder, the Taoiseach Micheal Martin and James Browne TD, Bridget Crean, Tadhg Malone of County Wexford Chamber and Norma Carty of FarmBiddy. *Sponsored Content Computer vision and image analysis are crucial to modern medicine. Ron Kikinis has played a key role in bringing them into clinical practice. (Photo: Markus Breig, KIT) Ron Kikinis, professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School in Boston, is the recipient of this years International Excellence Award of KIT and the Fellowship of SCHROFF Foundation. With the awards, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) honors an internationally recognized expert in medical image processing, image-guided therapy, and biomedical informatics. The awards include a research stay of up to six months at KIT. Computerized imaging during operations and image-guided diagnostics and therapy: What is now everyday clinical practice was visionary and pioneering in the 1980s. As a postdoc, Ron Kikinis was among the first researchers to systematically introduce the methods of computer vision and image analysis into clinical practice, thus establishing a new scientific field. His work paved the way for current developments in AI-assisted diagnostics, personalized medicine, and digitalized healthcare. Kikinis is a professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School and founding director of the Surgical Planning Laboratory at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston; his current work concerns global health and the digital transformation in medicine. In recognition of his work, Kikinis is receiving the International Excellence Award of KIT and the Fellowship of SCHROFF Foundation, and an invitation for a stay of up to six months at KIT. With his research, Professor Kikinis addresses central challenges of modern medicine, said Professor Jan S. Hesthaven, President of KIT. With his interdisciplinary influence on radiology, computer science, engineering, and medical technology, he makes important contributions to ongoing progress in modern medical technologies, reflecting the kind of approach to science that KIT wishes to recognize. This is the third time we have conferred the International Excellence Award, which enhances KITs visibility as an attractive and collaborative research institution, said Professor Thomas Hirth, Vice President Transfer and International Affairs at KIT. With his interdisciplinary approach and his long-term commitment to international cooperation, Professor Ron Kikinis personifies the values this award stands for. Fair Access to Medical Technology Kikinis is also the founder and architect of 3D Slicer, an open access software platform used by thousands of researchers and physicians worldwide for clinical image analysis and visualization. With his dedication to open science, he has made cutting-edge medical imaging technology widely accessible and has democratized innovation and training in biomedical research, said Professor Maria Francesca Spadea, head of KITs Institute of Biomedical Engineering. His research stay at KIT will strengthen collaboration in healthcare technologies, information science, and biomedical systems engineering. Professor Ron Kikinis, recipient of the InternationalExcellence Award of KIT (photo: Kikinis) International Excellence Grants at KIT In addition to the research stay, the prize includes up to 12 months of funding for accompanying junior researchers from Kikiniss group and up to EUR 50,000 for equipment for a research project to be conducted at the KIT host institute. The award is part of the International Excellence Grants (IEG) initiative in KITs successful University of Excellence concept and is aimed at promoting international collaboration in top-level research and attracting international researchers to KIT. More information Cambodia, China hold 1st public-private sector dialogue to address business challenges Xinhua) 15:00, February 09, 2026 PHNOM PENH, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The first Cambodia-China public-private sector dialogue was convened here on Monday, aiming at finding solutions to challenges faced by Chinese enterprises in the Southeast Asian country. Held at the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), the dialogue was chaired by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and CDC First Vice Chairman Sun Chanthol and Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin, and attended by representatives of 80 Chinese companies. "The dialogue is to hear issues faced by Chinese investors in Cambodia and try to find solutions to those issues," Chanthol said. He said the dialogue will be held regularly every six months to follow up on solutions to issues, noting China is the top investor and trading partner of Cambodia. He expressed his sincere gratitude to Chinese investors for doing business in Cambodia, saying that their investments have greatly contributed to the kingdom's socio-economic development and poverty alleviation. Wang said the dialogue was very good as it would help investors to address barriers to their business operations and growth. He added that Chinese enterprises in Cambodia have created more than 1 million jobs, significantly supporting the country's sustainable economic growth and trade expansion with China and the rest of the world. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. As Mad Men makes its final push toward the finish line, star Jon Hamm seems to be having a run of lousy days. According to a 1991 lawsuit that surfaced this week and was obtained by the Associated Press, the Golden Globe winner was among a number of Sigma Nu fraternity members accused of taking part in a violent hazing incident in November 1990 at the University of Texas at Austin. Hamm was 19 at the time. The lawsuit alleged violence against a Sigma Nu pledge that included leading him around with a hammer placed in a sensitive location, paddling him and setting his underpants on fire, according to the AP and a 1991 article from the San Antonio Light archives. Advertisement Three accused fraternity members were sentenced to jail for 30 days for hazing, Radar said. Sigma Nu was banned from UT Austin, according to a July 1991 story from the San Antonio Light. Jonathan Hamm of St. Louis was among four men listed in that story as being charged with multiple counts of hazing. An arrest warrant was issued in August 1993 for the man who would later play Don Draper, the San Antonio Express News confirmed Thursday. The AP said Hamm was charged with hazing and received probation in a deal cut in 1995. In the lawsuit, the pledge said Hamm participated till the very end, and university records show the actor left the school the same semester as the hazing, the AP reported. Advertisement I dropped out of school, moved into the basement of my older half-sister Julies house, enrolled in a local college and sank into depression after the 1991 death of his father, Hamm told the Mail on Sunday in 2012. Hed lost his mother to cancer when he was 10. The hazing skeleton in Hamms closet has come to light after the 44-year-old revealed in March that hed recently completed a 30-day rehab stint for alcohol addiction and after a tabloid reported this week that he and longtime partner Jennifer Westfeldt had split. The latter rumor was shut down Thursday by a Hamm rep who told People the story was not true. Reps for Hamm did not immediately respond to a Los Angeles Times request for comment. Follow Christie DZurilla on Twitter @theCDZ and Google+. Follow the Ministry of Gossip on Twitter @LATcelebs. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said the country is currently not sending any oil to Cuba as a result of U.S. pressure on the beleaguered Caribbean country. Speaking during her daily press conference on Monday, Sheinbaum said shipments are "currently on hold" as the country is "seeking to avoid any negative impact on Mexico and, as always, to find the best diplomatic solution for Cuba to receive fuel." Elsewhere in the conference, Sheinbaum rejected President Donald Trump's threat to sanction countries sending oil to the country, saying "you can't hurt the people just because you disagree with the government." "It's not right. They don't have fuel for hospitals or schools. The people are suffering," she added. Mexico did send non-fuel products, as two Navy ships are en route to the island with more than 800 tons of humanitarian aid. "Cuba and Mexico are sister nations, heirs to a long history of solidarity that we honor today," said Mexico's foreign ministry. In the meantime, Cuba teeters on the brink of collapse. The regime said it is set to run out of fuel for airplanes on Monday, with the shortage expected to continue for a month. The country has also begun closing tourism resorts, one of its last remaining lifelines. Bloomberg reported during the weekend that at least two large beach resorts were closing due to gasoline shortages. One said the resort is shutting down because there is no fuel for employees to get to work. Guests were relocated to another resort 30 miles away. The Cuban regime has also begun limiting some other activities as a result of U.S. pressure. The Associated Press detailed this week in another report that public transport between provinces is experiencing limitations, and some educational establishments told workers to stay at home. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel had already warned that the country is making preparations to face "acute fuel shortages." "We'll live through tough times. These, in particular, are very tough," Diaz-Canel told press last Thursday. Russia, a country friendly to Cuba, said the situation is "truly critical." "We are in intensive contact with our Cuban friends through diplomatic and other channels. Indeed, let's say the U.S.'s stranglehold is causing many difficulties for the country," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Trump has been urging Havana to engage before its stock runs out completely. Originally published on Latin Times Peacock is the primary streaming home for the 2026 Winter Olympics, offering live coverage of every event. If you signed up for Peacock purely for the Olympics, you might be wondering what else you can watch with your subscription. As NBCUniversals streaming platform, Peacock offers access to NBC and Bravo shows, including Saturday Night Live, sitcoms like The Office and reality shows like The Real Housewives franchise. For those looking to make the most of their new Peacock subscriptions, here are 8 things to watch on the streaming platform right now: 1. The Traitors "The Real Housewives of New York City" alum Dorinda Medley and "The Traitors" host Alan Cumming. Euan Cherry/PEACOCK Season 4 of The Traitors kicked off in January, and new episodes premiere on Peacock every Thursday. The premise of the reality series is straightforward: a group of Faithfuls attempt to identify the Traitors in their midst, sharing their theories during roundtable discussions before banishing one suspected turncoat. In turn, the Traitors select one player to kill each night. As the group of celebrity contestants complete challenges and observe each others behavior, their paranoia grows. You can always count on The Traitors and its eclectic cast to deliver campy drama and laughs. 2. All Her Fault A Peacock original series, All Her Fault follows Marissa Irvine (Sarah Snook), a wealth manager whose five-year-old son, Milo (Duke McCloud), goes missing under mysterious circumstances. As the search for Milo goes on, it becomes clear that Marissas life with husband Peter (Jake Lacy) is not as it seems. All eight episodes of the mystery miniseries debuted in the fall of 2025. 3. The Paper The Paper is a spinoff of The Office, but its only real tie to the original series is that Oscar Nunez reprises his role as Oscar Martinez. Domhnall Gleeson is fantastic as Ned Sampson, the awkward and idealistic new editor-in-chief of the Toledo Truth Teller, a declining Midwestern newspaper. While its impossible not to compare The Paper to The Office, the new series is more similar in tone to Parks and Recreation with its quirky but sincere protagonist. Domhnall Gleeson as Ned in "The Paper." John P. Fleenor/PEACOCK If youd rather rewatch an iconic sitcom than try a new one, Peacock is also home to beloved shows including 30 Rock, Parks and Recreation, New Girl and Modern Family. 4. Love Island USA Perhaps the most-talked about dating show on television, Love Island USA became the first Peacock series to reach the No. 1 spot in the Nielsen Top 10 last year. Single islanders looking for love pair up to avoid elimination, but connections are tested as new bombshells enter the villa. Sometimes romantic, often raunchy and chaotic, Love Island USA is the ultimate guilty pleasure. READ MORE: These were the 10 hottest shows of 2025 how many did you watch? 5. Bugonia Bugonia, which is Emma Stones latest collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos, follows a pharmaceutical company CEO (Stone) who gets kidnapped by a conspiracy theorist (Jesse Plemons). The black comedy is nominated for Best Picture at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. 6. The Hunger Games franchise Now is the perfect time to rewatch the Hunger Games film series. The prequel film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, which stars Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy, hits theaters in November. Woody Harrelson played Haymitch in the original Hunger Games movies. If youre not a Hunger Games person, the entire Harry Potter film collection is also on Peacock. 7. We Are Lady Parts We Are Lady Parts follows an all-female Muslim punk band. The British sitcom has a 97 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. Its funny, heartfelt, and completely unique. "We Are Lady Parts" stars Lucie Shorthouse (Momtaz), Faith Omole (Bisma), Anjana Vasan (Amina), Juliette Motamed (Ayesha) and Sarah Kameela Impey (Saira). Laura Radford/Peacock As The Guardians Chitra Ramaswamy wrote when the show first premiered in 2021, We Are Lady Parts is a comedy in which Muslim women are permitted to be funny, sexual, ridiculous, religious, angry, conflicted. Themselves, basically. READ MORE: Lindsey Vonn crashes at Olympic games, ending bid for defiant comeback 8. Broadchurch Another British series, Broadchurch is a must-see for fans of mysteries and crime dramas. Set in a fictional coastal town, the first two seasons of Broadchurch focus on the death of 11-year-old Danny Latimer. During season 3, Detective Inspector Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Detective Sergeant Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) tackle a new case: the premeditated rape of local woman Trish Waterman (Julie Hesmondhalgh). Peacock subscriptions cost $10.99 a month or $109.99 a year. A Whitehall man has been convicted for his role in a 2022 ambush shooting. Xavier Grenon, 27, was found guilty Friday of conspiracy to commit homicide, attempted homicide and aggravated assault in connection with an attack in 2022. Grenon was found not guilty of single counts of criminal homicide, conspiracy to commit homicide, attempted homicide, aggravated assault, discharge of a firearm into an occupied structure and two additional weapons offenses, according to court records. Co-defendants 26-year-old Frederick Antwan Marks Jr. of Bath and 20-year-old Legious Robert Minder Jr. of Bethlehem also have been charged in the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Najeer Lane of Allentown, which preceded the shots fired incident for which Grenon was convicted. Grenon was acquitted of his alleged involvement in the killing of Lane, according to defense attorney Eric Harakal. Minder pleaded guilty in October 2024 to third-degree murder and other charges, and is serving 40 to 80 years in state prison. Marks is awaiting trial and remains incarcerated. Grenons conviction came last week after a five-day jury trial before Lehigh County Judge Thomas M. Caffrey. Grenon faces as much as 60 years in state prison when he is sentenced April 17. Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Holihan announced the verdict Friday evening. The shooting of Lane happened shortly before 11 p.m. on Aug. 31, 2022, in the 1000 block of West Juniata Street on the south side of Allentown. Lane was a passenger in a car driven by Bless Jones. Grenon, Minder and Marks agreed to meet Jones at Allentowns Trout Creek Park, authorities alleged. While en route to the park, Jones and Lane were ambushed by the trio, prosecutors said. A total of 13 rounds were fired at the car from a 9mm handgun modified with a Glock switch. The switch allowed the semi-automatic gun to fire as fully automatic, with the 13 rounds going off in approximately one second, according to prosecutors. Lane was killed with a single gunshot wound to his back, but Jones escaped and drove to his home, police said. Less than an hour later, Grenon and his co-defendants arrived at that location and fired 12 rounds at Jones and a second person, missing both of them, prosecutors said. Grenon was convicted of the attempted murder of Jones, but acquitted of having a role in the Lane murder and acquitted of weapons charges, Harakal said. Lanes death occurred five years after his brother Parris Lane, 19, was shot and killed in a parking lot across from city hall. Joshwynn Adrian Garcia, then 21, of Allentown, later pleaded guilty in that killing. Last weeks case was investigated by Allentown Police Sgt. Harold Bonser and Detective Amaury Almonte of the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force, as well as Lehigh Countys 12th Investigating Grand Jury. It was prosecuted by Lehigh County Chief Deputy District Attorney Bethany S. Zampogna and Lehigh County Senior District Attorney Patricia Turzyn. A lawsuit blames Lehigh County and its jail medical provider for failing to prevent an inmates death by suicide. The lawsuit says 50-year-old Cheryl L. Phillips died by suicide on Dec. 3, 2022, after a forced drug detox in Lehigh County Jail. Lehigh County is aware of the case and disputes the claims against it, but otherwise is not willing to comment given that this is an ongoing litigation matter, Lehigh County solicitor Samuel E. Cohen said in an email Monday. Emails to jail health care provider PrimeCare Medical of Harrisburg and its attorney werent returned Monday. Phillips was denied methadone after she was incarcerated on Nov. 15, 2022, for violating parole on two minor drug offenses. She vomited for days due to drug withdrawal symptoms and was treated at St. Lukes Hospital on Nov. 22, 2022, for bleeding in her esophagus, the lawsuit says. She continued to suffer detox symptoms including a racing pulse and dizziness when she threw herself over a second-tier landing on Nov. 30, 2022, hit the cement floor below and suffered a severe head injury, the suit says. She died from her head injuries three days later in Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit was filed by Phillips daughter. The eight-count suit seeks unspecified damages for wrongful death and professional negligence. The lawsuit doesnt list an address for Phillips. One court docket entry for her recent drug case doesnt list an address for her, but a separate entry says she lived in Allentown. A notice of intent to sue was filed Nov. 24, 2024, in Lehigh County Court by Easton attorneys Adam Meshkov and John R. Vivian Jr. Their lawsuit was filed in Lehigh County on Jan. 20, 2026, then moved to federal court in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. Update: Noah Kahan added more tour dates if you missed the presale. Heres how you can secure tickets before they sell out Call Your Mom and let her know youre going to see Noah Kahan live this summer. Noah Kahan will be heading out on his The Great Divide Tour beginning in June, and he will eventually be making his way to Queens, N.Y. to perform at Citi Field on July 18. This is a tour we believe will sell out incredibly fast, so if you have been dying to see Noah Kahan live, we really think now is the time to make that happen. How to get tickets to see Noah Kahan on tour this summer The first presale begins on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 12 p.m. In order to access the presale, youll need to have signed up for the artists presale. Live Nation and Venue presale take place on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 12 p.m. Since signing up for the artist presale has passed, youll have another opportunity to snag tickets during the general sale which will take place on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 12 p.m. Recently, Ticketmaster made a statement alongside Noah Kahan that there will be new security measures in place to make sure tickets get in the hands of fans and not scalpers. Noah Kahan stated in a TikTok video statement that tickets will be non-transferable and can only be resold at the original price via Face Value Exchange on Ticketmaster. They also added that fans will be required to submit a selfie when signing up for presale or in a few cases, a photo ID, for verify that they are a human as safety measures. If you happen to miss out on getting tickets during the general sale, then you can find more tickets on sites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketNetwork, SeatGeek and Viagogo. Right now, the cheapest ticket we could find for Noah Kahans July 18 show in New York is $331 on Viagogo. You can find a full schedule for Noah Kahans The Great Divide Tour here. Noah Kahan tour 2026: Dates, schedule & more Noah Kahan will begin his The Great Divide Tour on June 11 in Orlando, Fla. and will wrap up on Aug. 30 in Seattle, Wash. The tour will be in support of his upcoming fourth album of the same name, which is set to drop on April 24. Hell be joined by special guest Gigi Perez at all of his concerts. About the album, Kahan shared on Instagram, the songs are the words I would say if I could. They are the fears I dance with in the moments before I drift off to sleep. The music here is my best attempt to delve deeper into the people, places, and feelings that have made me who I am. Upcoming 2026 tours heading to New York Noah Kahan is not the only artist heading to New York this year. Here are a few more tours you do not want to miss: Olivia Dean, Cardi B, 5 Seconds of Summer and Bon Jovi. If youre thinking about traveling to Niger anytime soon, take note that the country is one place you should avoid traveling. The U.S. State Department issued its highest travel advisory for Niger, warning Americans not to travel there for any reason. READ MORE: U.S. citizens face visa bans in four west African nations Here is what you need to know about the travel advisory and why the U.S. government is saying you shouldnt travel there. What does the latest travel advisory for Niger mean for you? Item Detail Start Date Jan. 29, 2026 Whats changing Updated travel advisory urging travelers not to travel to Niger for any reason due to terrorism, crime, kidnapping, unrest and health risks. What will happen? Travelers should not travel to Niger and U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees already there are urged to leave immediately because the U.S. government can provide little support. Who will it affect? Travelers to Niger. The agency gave a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory to Niger due to terrorism, crime, kidnapping, unrest and health risks. What is the highest travel advisory? There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4. When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination. Level 1 : Exercise Normal Precautions This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit. Level 2 : Exercise Increased Caution There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution. Level 3 : Reconsider Travel There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination. Level 4: Do Not Travel This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency. What should travelers to Niger do in light of this travel advisory? The U.S. State Department warns travelers who decide not to heed the travel warning to do the following: A firefighter and two residents were injured when flames tore through a two-story home Sunday evening in Hanover Township, Northampton County. Hanover Township Volunteer Fire Co. Chief Scott VanWhy told lehighvalleylive.com flames ignited around 9:15 p.m. at the residence in the 400 block of Sugar Maple Court. All occupants were able to escape safely on their own, he said. Asked if crews were focusing on a particular area of the structure, VanWhy said the fire was well involved upon arrival. The blaze quickly went to three alarms to bring in more manpower. About 15 agencies responded to help the Hanover Township crew. VanWhy said firefighters faced hurdles with gear freezing up and water freezing almost instantly in single-digit temperatures. The National Weather Service forecast wind chills plunging to 10 to 25 degrees below zero Sunday evening. We had to keep rotating guys and had to bring in extra manpower to keep up with the rotations, VanWhy said. One firefighter slipped on ice while battling a three-alarm blaze Sunday evening, Feb. 8, 2026 in Northampton County. The home on Sugar Maple Court is now uninhabitable. Dan Clerico | For lehighvalleylive.com One firefighter was injured after slipping on the ice and suffering a fall, VanWhy said. Two civilians also were injured and taken to area hospitals for treatment. They were released by Tuesday morning, VanWhy said. A fire hydrant covered in snow had to be dug out by neighbors. It took a while to get flames under control, VanWhy said. Crews stayed at the scene until 1:30 a.m. Monday in bitter cold temperatures checking for hot spots, he said. The home has since been deemed uninhabitable by township fire officials. The family is staying with relatives, VanWhy said. The cause of Sundays blaze remains under investigation by township fire officials. If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. While actor Adrien Brody might not understand how pain free it is to file your taxes, TurboTax does. Thats right, TurboTax is making tax filing for 2025 painless. How you ask? TurboTax Free Edition $0 File your 2-25 tax return for free $0 at TurboTax Well, if you watched that wacky TurboTax Super Bowl ad on Sunday, you might be wondering what it was all about and if TurboTax is actually free. We were too! So, we did a little digging to find out what the truth really is. Yes, you can file your 2025 taxes using TurboTax for free. But theres a catch. Only 37% of taxpayers actually qualify for the free online and in-app service. This TurboTax Free Edition is only for filers, who have simple 1040 returns with select schedules allowed. So, while the short answer is yes, TurboTax is free. Its not for everyone. Those who qualify, can easily file their 2025 taxes by April 15 with just an email address and phone number required to get started. W2 and 1099 forms can be imported from more than a million employers, making the entire process as painless as possible. TurboTax also provides audit protection and guarantees your tax returns accuracy for life. So, how can TurboTax offer free tax filing services? In 2023, TurboTax was part of a multi-state class action lawsuit that claimed it deceived customers into thinking its tax services were free. As part of a $141 million settlement, Intuit TurboTax was forced to stop running its free tax filing campaign for a period of time. It has since started offering the TurboTax Free Edition for eligible filers as well as paid tax filing services like TurboTax Do It Yourself Deluxe ($49) and TurboTax Expert Assist Deluxe ($79) Now, what does this all have to do with that insane Super Bowl commercial. Not much that we can see. However, it got your attention with a little drama from The Expert Adrien Brody and hopefully, made you laugh even it was about filing taxes. How to file your 2025 tax return at TurboTax Speaking of tax filing, here are some tax services you can use to file your 2025 tax return at TurboTax by April 15. Nurses at the Kildare hospital, which is used by Laois stroke patients, have embarked on industrial action over what they claim is an "unsafe staffing" deficit. Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) members commenced their action with a work-to-rule on Monday, February 9. Members will also hold a lunchtime protest at the facility, which is in the same Health Service Executive (HSE) grouping as the Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise. The INMO said the action in response to "unacceptable and unsafe staffing deficits". The trade union also asserted that industrial action could escalate if the employer does not act to resolve staffing issues. The INMO said it has tried to engage management on staffing without success. "No substantive action has been taken to increase staffing in line with agreed safe staffing frameworks," it said. The union has also cited an alleged failure to fill maternity-leave vacancies, as well as an alleged failure to increase staffing to meet an over 25 % increase in Emergency Department attendance at the hospital over the past three years, as reasons for industrial action. The INMO's assistant director of industrial relations, Bernadette Stenson, elaborated: "INMO members are dealing with immense pressure, unsafe conditions and continuous redeployment to different clinical areas in order to fill the most dangerous staffing gaps. "The hospitals ability to meet demand has become entirely dependent on our members stretching themselves to breaking point; they now have no choice but to highlight existing shortfalls by beginning a work-to-rule action. "Nurses in Naas [General Hospital] do not want to take this action, but they see no alternative if there is to be meaningful change in the hospital and significant measures taken to ensure their safety and the safety of their patients," she said. Furthermore, the General Secretary of the INMO, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, has hit out at the HSE over the situation. Ms Ni Sheaghdha said: "In the HSEs own Service Plan for the year ahead, they celebrate the fact that they have made cost savings through 'employment controls', yet the impacts of this are seen in Naas General Hospital, where short staffing is a huge problem and highly-skilled theatre nurses are owed hundreds of hours of time back. She also claimed: "This type of employment pattern is being replicated in hospital sites across the country." Ms Ni Sheaghdha concluded by urging the HSE to "meaningfully engage and ensure funded posts are being filled". The HSE Dublin and Midlands issued a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live. "It is with regret that the HSE confirms that industrial action by the INMO is now underway at Naas General Hospital, following the issuing of notice despite ongoing engagement and efforts to resolve the issues raised. "While discussions between the parties to date have not resulted in agreement, the HSE remains willing and available to engage constructively with the INMO at any time in order to reach a sustainable resolution. "Naas General Hospital has put a range of measures in place to manage services and minimise disruption during the period of industrial action. "However, patients and the public should be aware that there may be some delays to patient flow through the hospital as a result. Every effort is being made to prioritise patient safety and maintain essential services." "It is important to note that there has been significant growth in the hospital workforce in recent years; total staff numbers increased from 796 Whole-time equivalent (WTE) in December 2021 to 1,008 WTE in November 2025 an increase of 212 WTE, or 27 per cent, over four years. "Approved nursing staff numbers have grown from 358 WTE in December 2022 to 433 WTE in December 2025, representing an increase of 75 WTE, or 21 per cent. "Additional nursing staff posts have recently been approved for Safer Staffing posts (16 WTE) and there are further plans to progress longer-term measures to support and strengthen nursing capacity and enhance the overall service delivery model. "The HSE fully recognises and sincerely appreciates the continued professionalism, flexibility and commitment shown by staff at Naas General Hospital," they concluded. An Taoiseach Micheal Martin has addressed the urgent need for Laois housing, flood defences and largescale IDA job creation, while attending the Laois Fianna Fail centenary celebration in Portlaoise. The Taoiseach spoke at the Midlands Park Hotel where he joined over 300 members and supporters of Laois Fianna Fail for a gala dinner as the party reaches 100th years since its formation in 1926. At the event he was asked by the Leinster Express / Laois Live what potential he sees in Laois, and how will his party realise it. The population of Laois is growing quite significantly, has grown significantly, which is evidence then of peoples desire to come and work and live in Laois and in Portlaoise and across the county. As a party we have to make sure we build enough houses, in a sustainable way, and in fairness Laois has played its role in that respect. We realise that infrastructure is the significant challenge of this government. We have put funding aside in the National Development Plan, but more importantly we have looked at the mechanisms to ensure a more speedy delivery. Such as the flood relief scheme in Mountmellick and other areas in Laois that have received planning permission lately, Mr Martin said. He noted the need for local jobs also. Also in terms of employment, working with the SMEs (small and medium enterprises), Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices, to make sure that we create a strong indigenous base. Particularly in agri food, life sciences and in technology. I think we have a very strong future in that regard. It is all about cultivating our SMEs, and in time, working with Sean (Fleming) and others to see if we can bring in investment through the IDA, the Taoiseach said. The Laois Fianna Fail committee with An Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD and Sean Fleming TD at the Laois Fianna Fail Centenary Gala Dinner in The Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise. Photo: Alf Harvey. With no new Laois Fianna Fail politicians elected in more than a decade, and TD Sean Fleming serving for 30 years, the Taoiseach was asked about the challenge of renewal in Laois. It is a challenge and the challenge enables you to lift your game. We will be appointing area representatives, to encourage younger people to come forward and to contest. The next local elections will be an opportunity to do that. Our party has some of the youngest councillors in the country. Its doable, he said. Read next: PHOTOS: Laois Fianna Fail celebration with Taoiseach in Midlands Park Hotel Im delighted to meet Liam Hyland again. I call him the extraordinary gentleman of Irish politics. And of course the late Paddy Lalor, Sean Fleming and the Fleming family, John Moloney and what he did in a new vision for mental health. Its a very loyal, very strong bedrock Fianna Fail organisation, always has been from the very beginning, the Taoiseach added. Two brothers travelled from Belfast and London to Portlaoise District Court where a man had admitted falsely using their late father's name and address. Cormac McStay (52) of Clonad, Portlaoise, was accused of providing false or misleading information at Clonad, Portlaoise, on March 11 last. Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client, who wasnt present due to work commitments, had instructed him to plead guilty to the offence. Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendants car had been detected speeding at Kill in Kildare. The man had filled out a form nominating a man in Belfast as the driver of the car on the date in question, said Sgt Kirby. Sgt Kirby said it transpired that the named man had died prior to the speeding incident and his family were upset and unhappy naturally. He did use our fathers name. We wanted to see what was going on, one of the two sons told Judge Susan Fay. I am a recovery driver in London. I took the day off to try and resolve it, one of the brothers said. Mr Fitzgerald extended an apology on behalf of his client and described it as clearly a nasty act. I wasnt privy to the full facts, he stated. I can only offer my apology to the family, said Mr Fitzgerald. READ NEXT: Kildare gardai issue warning after rise in burglaries. Judge Fay said I think he should face the music. I think he should come to court. She asked the brothers if there was a date which suited them to return to the court. She then asked if there was any connection between the deceased and the defendant. I am not sure of any nexus link, replied Mr Fitzgerald. Judge Fay offered her condolences to the two brothers who said they would return on whatever date suited the Judge. I can make sure he is here whatever day suits you, Mr Fitzgerald said of the defendant. It is an unusual one, I am minded to order restorative justice, said Judge Fay. She told the brothers that they wouldnt need to come to court for restorative justice. It may help to resolve matters, to understand why this happened, said Judge Fay. She adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on June 22 to enable restorative justice to take its course. Judge Fay thanked the two brothers for coming to court. Members of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) in Naas General Hospital are due to commence industrial action in the form of a work-to-rule today (Monday, February 9). According to the INMO, it is carrying out the action in response to alleged "unacceptable and unsafe staffing deficits". Members will also hold a lunchtime protest outside the hospital later today in relation to staffing. In addition, the INMO has asserted that industrial action may escalate if the employer does not act to resolve staffing issues. According to the INMO, it has tried to engage Health Service Executive (HSE) management on the matter of staffing, but claimed that "no substantive action has been taken to increase staffing in line with agreed safe staffing frameworks". The union has also cited an alleged failure to fill maternity-leave vacancies, as well as an alleged failure to increase staffing to meet an over 25 per cent increase in Emergency Department attendance at the hospital over the past three years, as reasons for industrial action. READ NEXT: Man in Kildare border town accused of possessing drugs for sale or supply The INMO's assistant director of industrial relations, Bernadette Stenson, elaborated: "INMO members are dealing with immense pressure, unsafe conditions and continuous redeployment to different clinical areas in order to fill the most dangerous staffing gaps. "The hospitals ability to meet demand has become entirely dependent on our members stretching themselves to breaking point; they now have no choice but to highlight existing shortfalls by beginning a work-to-rule action." She added: "Nurses in Naas [General Hospital] do not want to take this action, but they see no alternative if there is to be meaningful change in the hospital and significant measures taken to ensure their safety and the safety of their patients." Furthermore, the General Secretary of the INMO, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, has hit out at the HSE over the situation. Ms Ni Sheaghdha said: "In the HSEs own Service Plan for the year ahead, they celebrate the fact that they have made cost savings through 'employment controls', yet the impacts of this are seen in Naas General Hospital, where short staffing is a huge problem and highly-skilled theatre nurses are owed hundreds of hours of time back." She also claimed: "This type of employment pattern is being replicated in hospital sites across the country." Ms Ni Sheaghdha concluded by urging the HSE to "meaningfully engage and ensure funded posts are being filled". The Leinster Leader has contacted Naas General Hospital for comment in relation to this development. UPDATE Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11.40am approx A representative for Naas General Hospital had this to say about the situation: "It is with regret that the HSE confirms that industrial action by the INMO is now underway at Naas General Hospital, following the issuing of notice despite ongoing engagement and efforts to resolve the issues raised. "While discussions between the parties to date have not resulted in agreement, the HSE remains willing and available to engage constructively with the INMO at any time in order to reach a sustainable resolution. "Naas General Hospital has put a range of measures in place to manage services and minimise disruption during the period of industrial action. "However, patients and the public should be aware that there may be some delays to patient flow through the hospital as a result. "Every effort is being made to prioritise patient safety and maintain essential services." The representative further said: "It is important to note that there has been significant growth in the hospital workforce in recent years; total staff numbers increased from 796 whole-time equivalent (WTE) in December 2021 to 1,008 WTE in November 2025 an increase of 212 WTE, or 27 per cent, over four years. "Approved nursing staff numbers have grown from 358 WTE in December 2022 to 433 WTE in December 2025, representing an increase of 75 WTE, or 21 per cent. "Additional nursing staff posts have recently been approved for Safer Staffing posts (16 WTE) and there are further plans to progress longer-term measures to support and strengthen nursing capacity and enhance the overall service delivery model." They concluded: "The HSE fully recognises and sincerely appreciates the continued professionalism, flexibility and commitment shown by staff at Naas General Hospital." UPDATE Monday, February 9, 2026 at 3.13pm approx A representative for the INMO has said that the organisation intends to continue its work-to-rule action again tomorrow (Tuesday, February 10, 2026). READ NEXT: Kildare County Council announces Homelessness Clinics for February 2026 A local councillor based in North Kildare has expressed his wish to see Kildare County Council (KCC) develop a brand-new nature and recreation amenity. Fine Gael Cllr William Durkan supported the idea of a new nature and recreation amenity at the latest Clane-Maynooth Municipal District (MD) meeting, which took place on Friday, February 6 last. Cllr Durkan appeared at this meeting by virtual means) POTENTIAL TO PURCHASE The discussion arose when Cllr Durkan motioned for KCC to "investigate the potential to purchase a suitable site in North-West Kildare, with a view to develop an additional nature and recreation amenity, noting the aim of EU Just Transition Fund (EUJTF) to 'deliver improved tourism infrastructure facilities and visitor experiences'". His motion was seconded by Independent Cllr Padraig McEvoy. Speaking further on the proposal, Cllr Durkan clarified that he would urge KCC to pursue the purchase of end-of-life sites, such as quarries in order to develop nature and recreation activities. He also pointed out an example of a privately developed former quarry located at Derrymore, near Mullingar in County Westmeath. Following this, two of Cllr Durkan's colleagues expressed support for the motion: the Mayor of the MD, Cllr Brendan Wyse, and Cllr Tim Durkan. In the case of Cllr Tim Durkan, he also pointed to the Eden Project in Cornwall, England as an example of a successful nature-based project. READ NEXT: UPDATE: Kildare-based art group returns once again to popular shopping centre with exhibition TWO REPORTS PROVIDED In an unusual turn of events, KCC provided two reports in response to Cllr William Durkan's motion. The first one read as follows: "KCC is currently implementing the EUJTF Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme in partnership with Failte Ireland. "This scheme supports a tourism activator to work directly with tourism community and enterprise SMEs." KCC further said that several projects were successful in their funding applications, "as announced on January 12 last". However, it elaborated: "The SME or activation scheme does not provide funding for local authorities to purchase land. In addition, KCC noted: "While the Investment Grant Aid scheme for local authorities under the scheme does not have specific call dates, a lead in time is required and all projects must be completed and funds drawn down by August 2026." As for the second report, KCC had this to say: "[The] Kildare Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), is delivering a programme in West Kildare, Just Transition areas to strengthen community development and empower communities to access funding mechanisms for projects. "The smart village project is funded via Leader Grant Aid." KCC further said: "Turning the Sod / Engage and Transform Now provides further information on this community development project." Fine Gael Cllr William Durkan. Photograph credit: kildarecoco.ie READ NEXT: UPDATED: Nurses in Kildare hospital to begin work-to-rule action Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme. National Pizza Day is all about enjoying good food, supporting local businesses, and savouring lifes small pleasures one slice at a time. Across Kildare, chefs are adding their own twist, blending local Irish ingredients with classic Italian flavours. Whether you love a simple Margherita, a hearty meat feast, or a creative vegetarian option, National Pizza Day is all about enjoying good food, supporting local businesses, and savouring lifes small pleasures one slice at a time. To celebrate National Pizza Day, we have found five pizzerias in Kildare for you to check out!! Regatto's Regattos Naas is the perfect place to celebrate National Pizza Day, serving up freshly prepared, flavour-packed pizzas that locals love. With quick service, great value and a menu full of crowd-pleasers, its an easy choice for a treat. Its a go-to spot in Naas for satisfying pizza cravings and sharing great food with friends and family. Website | Facebook Apache Pizza Kildare National Pizza Day calls for proper celebration, and Apache Pizza Kildare Town has it sorted. From cheeky deals to seriously loaded slices, were feeding locals faster than you can say extra garlic dip. Fresh dough, bold flavours and zero judgment on topping choices. Whether its dinner, late-night or lunch, we deliver happiness, hot, cheesy and proudly local every single time. Website | Facebook Flame Pizza For National Pizza Day, Flame Pizza TMH stands out for its friendly, local feel and commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. Known for creating pizzas with real care and flavour, its a great choice when you want something made fresh, served with a smile, and rooted in the local community spirit that keeps customers coming back. Facebook Amici's Monasterevin For National Pizza Day, Amicis Monasterevin is all about that familiar, comforting local takeaway experience the place you think of when you want something reliably delicious. A long-standing favourite in the town, its known for generous portions, great flavour and being part of the everyday rhythm of the community. Website | Facebook Firestone Pizza This National Pizza Day, Firestone Pizza celebrates the art of true stone-baked pizza, combining traditional high-heat cooking with bold, modern flavours. Each pizza is crafted for a crisp, smoky crust and rich taste, using carefully selected ingredients. Its all about authentic flavour, quality and craftsmanship the perfect way to mark the occasion for pizza lovers. Website *Sponsored Content A 36-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a number of theft, burglary and public order offences, including a theft from a church in Leitrim, has taken huge steps to overcome his addictions, Ballyshannon District Court heard. Jimmy Ward with addresses listed as 39 Barrack Hill, Belturbet, Cavan and 15 Armada Cottages, Bundoran, was before Ballyshannon District Court recently. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with credit to be given for time served. He is currently in prison for other matters which were dealt with at the circuit court, and he is receiving support for alcohol and drug addiction. The court heard that he has been off drink and drugs for 18 months, and is continuing to take every opportunity to assist him in his recovery. Ward pleaded guilty to the charges before the court, and elected for the theft matters to be heard in the district court rather than progressing to trial before judge and jury at the circuit court. On July 10, 2024 at St Aidans Church, Kinlough, Leitrim, Ward entered the sacristy and committed theft. And on November 15, 2022 at Riverside Hotel, Sligo, he entered the property as a trespasser and committed a theft therein. Both offences are contrary to Section 12(1)(b) and (3)of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. On March 5, 2024 at Adelaide Street, Knappagh Beg, Sligo, he stole 120 from an unlocked car, contrary to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. READ MORE: Woman with Leitrim address accused of involving juvenile in theft operation On June 18, 2024 at Sligo University Hospital, Ward trespassed in such a manner as was likely to cause fear in another person. The offence is contrary to Section 13 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 2 of the Intoxication LIquor Act, 2008. On June 21, 2024 at Ardkeeran, Riverstown, Sligo, he entered a parked vehicle. The offence is contrary to Section 113 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961 (as amended by Section 6 of the Road Traffic Act, 1968 and Section 18 of the Road Traffic Act 2006). On the same date at Holiday Cottage, Ardkeeran, Riverstown, Sligo, he trespassed on the curtilage of that property in a manner as caused or was likely to cause fear in another person. The offence is contrary to Section 13 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2008 Ward admitted that on July 18, 2024 at Iarnrod Eireann, Collooney Train Station, Collooney, he engaged in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour. The offence is contrary to Section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating LIquor Act, 2008. In relation to the same incident, he also faced a charge of being intoxicated to the extent of being a danger to himself or others, contrary to Section 4 of the same act. Inspector Dermot Treacy told the court that in relation to the hotel theft, Ward was seen on CCTV taking coins valued at 10 from a charity box. Regarding the theft of 120 from a car, Ward was identified as having committed the theft. The money was not recovered, said the inspector. In relation to the incident at Sligo University Hospital, Inspector Treacy said: There was a report of an incident. The defendant was arrested for trespass in part of the hospital where he shouldnt have been. Regarding the offences in June 2024, the inspector said the defendant trespassed on private property and was intoxicated. While on the property, he attempted to enter an unlocked vehicle but failed to get into the car and was subsequently arrested. In respect of the theft from St Aidans Church, Ward stole cash from the safe, the court heard. For the offences relating to Iarnrod Eireann, Inspector Treacy said the defendant was highly intoxicated and abusive on the train. The court heard that the defendant had 188 previous convictions. Solicitor Rory OBrien said: We all have a flavour and understanding of Mr Wards record and his previous convictions. Jimmy now reaches the age of 36 years old, has come before the court for the last 20 years. He was introduced to offending at an early age. Said behaviour was unfortunately condoned by what authority figures were in his life at the time. The solicitor explained that what began as a pattern of alcohol use emerged into addiction at a young age. It has been an ongoing issue since then, he said. Mr OBrien said there was a lot of addiction in the defendants family. Jimmy took it further, going from alcohol to cannabis to cocaine to heroin, said the solicitor. Heroin became his drug of choice. His family believed that Jimmy had gone down a road so dangerous to himself that he was going to end up dead. The solicitor said Ward had a background of challenges which included poor literacy. He moved to Monaghan where he had children and unfortunately suffered tragedy, said Mr OBrien. He said that while some of Wards previous convictions included minor assaults, the vast majority arose from efforts to obtain cash to feed his addiction. Ward was given the opportunity to address the court. I went down a very bad road with drink and drugs, and was always looking for money to feed the habit, he said. I am off the drugs for over 18 months. I know I done a lot of things I should not have done. I was hooked on heroin and hooked on cocaine. I wouldnt wish it on no-one. Ward said he had done every addiction court available to him, and certificates were handed in to court confirming his participation. I apologise deeply for what I have done, he said. I wouldnt have done it if I was where I am now. He shared that his brother-in-law had passed away, as had his brother,. I couldnt attend my brothers funeral due to drug addiction, he said. These are things I cant bring back. I will never see my little brother again. I was at a stage where I would love to get off the drugs but I couldnt get off them. I don't rely on nothing anymore. I feel a lot better. Solicitor Gerry McGovern who previously represented the defendant also addressed the court. He is a beacon of hope not just for himself but for other family members, said Mr McGovern. Nobody is beyond reform, beyond change. Judge Eiteain Cunningham acknowledged the steps taken by the defendant, but cautioned: It will be a lifelong battle for you. You must get a bed in a treatment centre. Ward said he was looking forward to getting into a treatment centre, the next step in his recovery journey. My life is better with the help that I can get, he said. Judge Cunningham said that some time had already been served in relation to a number of the offences due to bail having been revoked. In relation to the offence of trespassing at Sligo University Hospital, Ward was sentenced to three months in prison. For entering the parked vehicle at Riverstown, he was sentenced to a further three months. That is to run consecutively to the other sentence because it was committed while he was on bail, said the judge. For theft of 120 from a locked car, Ward was sentenced to 12 months in prison to run consecutively, with credit for time served. The remaining matters were taken into consideration. Mr Ward must be given credit for how he has addressed the matters, said Judge Cunningham. I have taken account of the progress he has made. Legal aid was granted to Mr OBrien. An Irishman who has been detained by Ice (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has described the facilities as like a modern day concentration camp. Seamus Culleton said he would like Irish premier Micheal Martin to raise his case with US President Donald Trump during his meeting at the White House in March. Mr Culleton is originally from Co Kilkenny, but has been living in the US for almost 20 years and is married to a US citizen. He was driving home after finishing work when he was detained by Ice agents in September 2025. He said he noticed a man with blue sunglasses was driving the car and then several others appeared around him. He was asked if he had a green card and he said he did not, but said he was married to a US citizen, had a work permit and was due to receive his green card. He was detained and initially put into a holding cell in Massachusetts, before being taken to New York, then and then to the detention centre in El Paso in Texas. He claimed that Ice agents had tried to get him to sign deportation papers, which he said he absolutely did not. He described the detention centre in El Paso as horrible, where there is little sanitation, limited food and where it was tough to stay positive. He said he was in fear of his life from the security firm in charge, who he said were capable of anything, and said that it is not easy to predict what will happen. He said there were 72 people in a tent the size of 16ft by 35ft room with no ceiling, with two rows of bunk beds on either side and a long table down the middle. He described the conditions at the camp as filthy, the toilets and showers as nasty, and that illnesses are rife among those being detained. He said there was competition for food and said he had definitely lost weight. There is no real quality of life here. Ive been locked in the same room now for four and a half months, he told RTEs Liveline programme. Ive had barely any outside time, no fresh air, no sunshine. I could probably count on both hands the amount of times Ive been outside. Id be so grateful if we could just end this ASAP. Ive been detained now for five months, locked in the same room for four and a half of those months. Its just torture. I dont know how much more I can take. He said the detention centre was a psychological and physical torture and was also difficult for his mother. I just want to get back to my wife. Were so desperate to start a family. My own family at home in Ireland is also suffering, my mother especially, shes heartbroken that Im in here. I talk to her most days. Shes just heartbroken over the whole situation, I dont want her health to get any worse. Shes constantly worrying and stressing about me. On the same programme, Mr Culletons wife, Tiffany, described the shock of his detention and the awful experience of trying to maintain contact with him in the intervening period. She said she did not hear from him for almost a week after an initial phone call following his arrest, and said she did not know if he was deported and had no idea if he was safe. Asked if she had been allowed to visit her husband, she said Ice officially allows visits but it is almost impossible to set one up. She had booked flights from Massachusetts to Texas to attend one of Mr Culletons court dates, but the hearing was moved on the day before her journey. Hes a good man. I dont think anyone deserves this but Seamus definitely doesnt deserve this, she said. She said she had attempted to reach senators and Mr Trump about the case but had received no response. Earlier, Mr Culletons sister, Caroline, said his family still does not know why he was detained. There are no words. I mean the way theyre being kept and theyre locked up, and hes only been allowed out a couple of times. They dont see the sunlight. They dont get out. Their health deteriorates. She said he has lost an awful lot of weight, adding that he has sores, infections and hair loss. She told the News at One programme that his ongoing detention was heartbreaking for our mother and his extended family. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said: Minister McEntee is aware of this case and of the consular assistance being provided to the citizen involved, and his family, by our Consulate General in Austin, Texas, and our consular unit in Dublin. Our embassy in Washington DC is also engaging directly with the Department of Homeland Security at a senior level in relation to this case. LIMERICK fundraising, ticketing and membership company Eventmaster has acquired rival firm iDonate. Eventmaster, which is based at Arthur's Quay in Limerick city centre, has captured iDonate with support from growth capital investor BGF. Led by founder and chief executive John Cleary, Eventmaster has continued to innovate and expand its presence in the Irish market. READ MORE: Associate of Dundon McCarthy gang jailed for 15 years for fatally shooting man in Limerick 19 years ago iDonate, meanwhile, has grown to become one of Irelands best-known fundraising platforms under the leadership of its own chief executive Alan Coyne. It's anticipated the acquisition will combine Eventmasters event-management, ticketing and membership capabilities with iDonates fundraising expertise, creating a single, end-to-end solution for charities, community groups, sporting organisations and event organisers. As part of the transaction, Mr Coyne will continue with the combined business and will lead fundraising across the group, working alongside Mr Cleary and the wider team. BGF helped supercharge Eventmaster's growth two years ago, by providing money to help the business to expand. In connection with this transaction, BGF is also providing follow-on growth capital to support Eventmasters acquisition of iDonate. Mr Cleary said: "The acquisition of iDonate represents a significant step forward for Eventmaster. This acquisition re-enforces the position of Eventmaster as the industry leader across event participation ticketing and now fundraising in Ireland. We look forward to delivering an enhanced service to our existing customers and extending our ticketing and membership products to the iDonate customer base in both the domestic and international markets. Mr Coyne said: "For over 15 years, iDonate has focused on empowering charities and fundraisers with simple, powerful technology. Becoming part of the Eventmaster group allows us to accelerate our vision and significantly expand what we can offer charities, fundraisers and event organisers. Eventmaster shares our values, our ambition and our commitment to delivering best-in-class technology. This marks a major milestone for iDonate and a very positive step forward for our customers and team, enabling us to innovate faster, scale internationally and continue raising the bar for digital fundraising. Joe Higgins, an investor with BGF added: "We are delighted to continue our partnership with Eventmaster as it embarks on the next stage of its growth journey. Eventmas er has demonstrated impressive momentum in building a market-leading platform for fundraising, ticketing and membership services in Ireland. The acquisition of iDonate represents a highly complementary strategic move that will strengthen the groups offering and deliver even greater value to charities, community organisations and event organisers nationwide. Our follow-on investment underlines BGFs long-term commitment to backing ambitious, founder-led businesses with the potential to scale and innovate. AN associate of the Dundon McCarthy gang who fatally shot Noel Campion 19 years ago "in cold blood" and was later deported back to Ireland having told multiple people in the US - including a police officer - that he had killed a man, has been jailed for 15 years by the Central Criminal Court. The court heard during last month's sentence hearing for 42-year-old Darragh Quinlivan that he later characterised what he had said as "sh**e talk" and sarcasm. Mr Campion was shot dead as he was riding as a back passenger on a motorbike at Thomondgate in Limerick city - close to St Munchin's Church. Sentencing Quinlivan at the Central Criminal Court today, Mr Justice Paul McDermott said he was satisfied the case fell into the "most serious category" and that the offence was part of a plan to kill an individual "in cold blood". He said it was clear from the evidence that Quinlivan was the gunman who had killed Mr Campion and he had also attempted to kill the man driving the motorbike that day. READ MORE: Woman who deceived Limerick tradesmen ordered to pay back money owed The judge said Quinlivan had hid himself from view in a phone booth and "ambushed" the men "virtually at point blank range". He remarked that Mr Campion had clearly been shot to advance the interests of the Dundon McCarthy gang. Mr Justice McDermott called the shooting "callous and brutal", where the defendant had opened fire on a public street during the mid-morning when there was heavy traffic and without regard for the public's safety. The judge noted that he had received a considerable number of statements from those who have been greatly affected by Mr Campion's killing. He added: "They set out very eloquently and in great detail the terrible devastation brought upon the family following the loss of a husband, father, uncle, and friend in these appalling circumstances. It is a life-long endurance that the family are subjected to as a result of this shooting". Mr Justice McDermott pointed out that the devastation and heartbreak caused by Quinlivan's actions were obvious. However, the judge said this was put into "stark reality" when the "very detailed and raw" victim impact statements were presented to the court. He described the statements as very moving and said they encapsulated the continuing grief and sorrow experienced by the family, which he said will continue into the future. The judge said careful planning was involved in the killing including the procurement of the firearm. He said the disposal of the weapon required considerable effort and application. Quinlivan had originally been charged with the murder of Mr Campion (35) on the northside of Limerick city on April 26, 2007. However, when arraigned before the court in January, Quinlivan, originally from Limerick city but with an address at Ranswell Close, Bolton, Manchester in the UK, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life at or about the junction of High Road and Thomondgate in Limerick. He has also pleaded guilty that on the same occasion with the purpose of enhancing the ability of a criminal organisation, being the Dundon McCarthy organised criminal group, to commit a serious offence in the State, to wit the murder of Mr Campion, did knowingly participate in the activity of that criminal organisation by shooting dead the said Mr Campion. Prosecution counsel, Dean Kelly SC, previously told the court that Quinlivan was not pleading guilty to the offence of murder. Before passing sentence today, Mr Justice McDermott said the maximum sentence for unlawful possession of the firearm was life in prison. He said the offence of participating in the activity of a criminal organisation had a maximum sentence of five years at the time but was subsequently increased, which he said was of no relevance to the case. The judge said Quinlivan was observed in the aftermath of the killing drinking and behaving in a celebratory mood with seven other members of the McCarthy-Dundon gang. He said gardai believed that the shooting was directed from the top of the McCarthy-Dundon gang. Quinlivan, he said, had applied for a passport five days after the shooting. The defendant had also appeared at Nenagh District Court on May 2 2007 for taking a car and gave evidence that he hoped to leave Ireland within two weeks because of his involvement in the feud between the Keane-Collopy and the McCarthy-Dundon gangs. The court has heard that the defendant left Ireland on June 6, 2007, with his passport obtained in the days after the shooting. Quinlivan travelled to Tacoma in Washington State, where he lived and worked for the next six months. In the early hours of January 13, 2008 local police were called to a domestic incident in a house, where the defendant and his uncle had a significant argument which strayed into violence. One of the officers arrested Quinlivan and observed he was so drunk that when he was travelling to the police station he had trouble talking and walking. The policeman said Quinlivan told him: "You know why I'm here, I killed a man in Ireland" and then named the man as being 'Noel'. The judge said today that Quinlivan was deported back to Ireland in March 2008 and that he had been 24 years of age at the time of the shooting. Mr Justice McDermott said he had received substantial documentation that the defendant had made significant efforts to move away from his criminal behaviour and that how Quinlivan is now is "completely at odds with his character" in 2007. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions, including those for robbery with a firearm and the unauthorised taking of a MPV. Mr Justice McDermott set the headline sentence for the charge of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life at 22 years but took into account mitigating factors, including his guilty plea and that he had developed "a totally different lifestyle" since 2012. He said Quinlivan had also expressed regret but this provided little solace for those left behind. The judge reduced the 22 year sentence to 16 years when taking mitigation into account. He further suspended the last 12 months of that sentence for a period of two years on various conditions. He was also sentenced to four years imprisonment on the count of participating in the activity of a criminal organisation. The man's sentences are to run concurrently. SENTENCE HEARING At a previous hearing, Inspector Fergal Hanrahan detailed the events of the morning of April 26, 2007, telling Dean Kelly SC, prosecuting, that the deceased Noel Campion had been due to appear in Limerick District Court for road traffic offences. Mr Kelly said Mr Campion had travelled towards the city as a pavilion passenger on a motorcycle being driven by Brian 'Spider' Scanlan, who was in a relationship with the deceased's sister. The Insp said the men were stopped in traffic behind a truck when 'lone male' Darragh Quinlivan walked out from a nearby phone booth and discharged a firearm a number of times, leading to the death of Mr Campion. An eyewitness, who later rang 999, said that as he was parking his van a man in a red hoodie, who was about to open the door of the phone kiosk, had pulled a hood down over his forehead. The witness said the shooter outstretched his right hand as the motorcycle passed him and fired four shots into the back of the pavilion passenger. Insp Hanrahan said Quinlivan made his getaway in a Volkswagen Passat and left the scene at speed in the direction of Moyross. The vehicle was later found partially burnt out. The court heard that an "extremely quick response" was made by gardai and paramedics, who commenced cardiopulmonary resuscitation on Mr Campion. This continued en route to the hospital where it was noted that Mr Campion was in cardiac arrest with gunshot wounds to the front of the abdomen, said counsel. Mr Campion, the lawyer said, was ultimately pronounced dead at 11.25am that morning; around 40 minutes after the shooting. There were eight gunshot wounds with four entry and four exit wounds. He died from blood loss from those injuries and had significant damage to the aorta. A short time later on May 1 2007, the court heard, Quinlivan went to the garda station to have a passport signed. READ MORE: 'Educated' woman 'with potential' charged with money laundering at Limerick court On May 2 2007, the witness said Quinlivan appeared before Nenagh Circuit Court on an unrelated matter regarding the taking of a car. Quinlivan gave evidence, where he said it was his intention to leave Ireland to move to the US, where work was waiting for him. The defendant said it was his desire to leave the country as soon as he possibly could due to his involvement in a feud. Mr Kelly said in 2007 there was a feud between the Keane-Collopy and the McCarthy-Dundon gangs. The barrister said that gardai later received confidential information which caused the investigation to focus on Quinlivan. On May 10 2007, two gardai met the defendant by appointment and took a voluntary cautioned interview about the morning of April 26. Asked to account for his movements, Quinlivan told officers he had stayed in his parents house on the night of April 25. The defendant said he woke the next morning around 10.45am to a phone call from someone at the courthouse to say Mr Campion had been shot. "In essence he provided his own alibi and the news of the shooting caused him to get up," remarked Mr Kelly. Quinlivan said he left his parents house that morning and went to visit the grave of his friend Frankie Ryan, who had died in 2006. Insp Hanrahan said Gary Campion is a brother of Noel and is serving a life sentence for this murder. When gardai spoke to Quinlivan again four days later, the defendant said he recalled driving around in convoy with other cars and had gone to a party in John Dundon's house. On May 25 2007, George Quinlivan was asked to account for his son's movements and he said Darragh was asleep in bed on the morning of April 26. Following the domestic incident in Tacoma in Washington in January 2008, the policeman said Quinlivan had also told him he had shot a man in the back of the head "execution style". The officer also stated that Quinlivan said all the bullets were to the deceased man's trunk, none to the head and that he had killed him in retaliation for 'Noel' having killed a friend of his. Another family friend said in a statement to police in August 2007 that Quinlivan had told her he had done something back home. She asked Quinlivan if he had killed someone, and she said he neither admitted nor denied that was the case. Another woman said the defendant told her he was in the US as he had killed a member of an opposing gang and she recollected a motorbike being mentioned. She said Quinlivan told her he walked out and shot "the guy with a handgun". She said the defendant made the gesture of a handgun and said 'bang bang'. The wife of Quinlivan's uncle also told police that while the defendant was living with them, he said he had killed someone but hadn't mentioned the name. Mr Kelly said these revelations were brought to the attention of gardai in Ireland to see if they were of assistance. Quinlivan later denied to police in the US that he had murdered Mr Campion, adding that he hadn't fled there and that it was a planned trip. The defendant said he was closest to the Dundons and "couldn't get closer". The defendant, Mr Kelly said, was deported back to Ireland from the US in 2008 and characterised what he said to the officer in the US as "sh**e talk" and sarcasm. Insp Hanrahan said the evidence in the case had been available to gardai some years ago and it was recommenced as a cold case review in 2022. The witness said Quinlivan was a close associate of the McCarthy-Dundon criminal gang and was believed to have accidentally discharged a firearm at a house party in 2006, where a woman was injured. "It was believed to have been not an incident of deliberate criminality but rather highly reckless horseplay, which led to her suffering a gun wound," said Mr Kelly. Under cross-examination, the Insp agreed with Seamus Clarke SC, defending, that a significant amount of evidence the State was to rely on at trial in essence came from Quinlivan's own mouth, including what he had said to people in the US with drink on board. The detective further agreed with the lawyer that his client had removed himself from Limerick City after 2012 and moved to the UK, where he got a job, settled down and "took a turn in the road for the good". The detective agreed with the prosecutor that gardai are of the view that the killing of Noel Campion was directed by the McCarthy-Dundon criminal organisation. In his submissions, Mr Clarke said that his client wasn't somebody who was tight-lipped and had kept to himself in the past, but he was now the epitome of a family man and had worked hard the last 13 years for his three children. VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENTS In her victim impact statement, which was read to the court by the prosecutor, the daughter of Mr Campion said her father's death has had a devastating and life-long impact on her family. Lynsey Campion said she was only 11 years old when her father was murdered and that he was a loving and caring man, who cherished simple family moments. "When he was murdered I watched the world move on when my own world had stopped...You murdered my father and carried on with your life as if nothing happened, you continued as if taking a life meant nothing," she said, addressing Quinlivan The deceased's wife, Maureen Campion, said in her statement that when she arrived at the scene of where Noel was "brutally shot", her life changed forever. She said part of her died that day but she had to stay strong for her two young children. "Noel did not deserve this brutal and premeditated murder inflicted on him," she said. Mystery still surrounds the disappearance of Limerick resident Luke Price whose family says he has "survival skills" and answers to a different name. Luke is originally from Geashill in Co Offaly and had been living in the Ballyfin area near Portlaoise towards the end of 2024. He was last seen in Limerick where he had been living in January of 2025. He was recently the subject of a renewed appeal having not been seen in over a year. There have been a number of reported sightings by members of the public across different locations in the 13 months since, however none of these have been confirmed to be Luke. Gardai say they are still seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of the 27-year-old who was reported missing from his home in Mountkennet, Limerick city on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. When last seen, Luke was wearing a black coat, blue jeans and black boots. Gardai and Luke's family are concerned for his wellbeing. In an online post last year, Luke's mother Pauline Price said: "Luke is well known in scouting communities in Portlaoise, Tullamore, Clara, Mountmellick and Edenderry. He's a chef. He's himself, a lovely, kind and resourceful young man when he's well. He has survival skills but didn't go prepared, as far as we know. Please help us find him." In April of 2025, gardai confirmed a wetlands area of Limerick city had been searched in a targeted operation trying to locate Luke but it yielded no clues as to his whereabouts. ABOVE: Luke Price who hasn't been seen in over a year A poster of Luke has now been circulated in the counties he was known to frequent, including Laois, Offaly and Limerick. The poster shares further details on Luke's appearance and demeanour, including a distinctive tattoo. READ NEXT: Garda search for missing man concludes at targeted location in Limerick Under 'identifying characteristics', the poster lists: "Glasses, eyes may be moving rapidly, or shakes when speaking. Currently in a manic mental state. Responds to Luke or Gabriel. Spiral tattoo on his left arm." Speaking on Midlands 103 radio last year, Luke's mother also alluded to his health at the time and said: "It was only after his disappearance when we got together and all of a sudden we could see a line of dots and realised maybe he wasn't in the best state of health." In a heartbreaking message directly to her son, she told him he's "deeply, deeply missed and that he is loved and deserving of all the love in the world and we just need him to come home." Anyone with information on Lukes whereabouts is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on 061 212 400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station. It's National Pizza Day and across Limerick, chefs are adding their own twist, blending local Irish ingredients with classic Italian flavours. Whether you love a simple Margherita, a hearty meat feast, or a creative vegetarian option, National Pizza Day is all about enjoying good food, supporting local businesses, and savouring lifes small pleasures one slice at a time. To celebrate National Pizza Day, we have found five pizzerias in Limerick for you to check out!! Fordes Courtyard Pub & Pizzeria Fordes Courtyard is a vibrant bar, pizzeria and social hotspot at Little Ellen Street in the heart of Limerick city. Offering an unforgettable blend of great food, drinks, and atmosphere, enjoy expertly-crafted cocktails, premium wines, chilled pints and a curated selection of beers and spirits in a stylish, relaxed setting. Our kitchen features a traditional Valoriani pizza oven with Neapolitan pizzas made from house-made dough, alongside Italian small plates, fresh salads and pasta, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a casual dinner. Join us for lively nights with a DJ and a buzzing social vibe, ideal for celebrations, date nights or weekend catch-ups. Visit us for drinks, pizza, cocktails, DJs and more. Fordes Courtyard Pub & Pizzeria Located at Little Ellen Street, Limerick city | V94 P620 Website | Facebook ________ Sextons, Henry Street Sextons is the home of Limericks first outdoor wood fired pizza oven, the pizza bar is located in the heart of Limerick city at 91 Henry Street. Our delicious thin base, wood-fired pizzas range from the classic Margherita to more gourmet pizzas, which include vegetarian, gluten friendly and vegan options. If nothing on the menu grabs your attention, you can create your own by choosing your own toppings. You can pair your pizza of choice with a locally sourced craft beer, a glass of one of the many different Spanish or Italian wines available or a coffee. If you have questions or comments, please get a hold of us in whichever way is most convenient. Ask away. There is no reasonable question that our team can not answer. Located at 91 Henry street, Limerick | Phone: (061) 319 359 or email sextonsbar91@gmail.com Facebook ________ Lava Restaurant Lava Restaurant, at 8 Broad Street in Limerick city, is a lively city-centre favourite known for bold flavours and generous portions. Alongside juicy smashed beef and chicken burgers, Lava serves standout pizzas including a Lava favourite which is loaded with double layers of smoky pepperoni, bubbling mozzarella cheese, and rich tomato sauce, baked to golden perfection. Located at 8 Broad St, Limerick, V94 P202, reserve your table now by phoning (061) 468413. Website | Facebook ________ Vincenzo Grill House Celebrate National Pizza Day at Vincenzo Grill House at The George Hotel Limerick. If youre looking for a lively dining spot in the heart of Limerick city centre, Vincenzo Grill House at The George Hotel Limerick continues to draw guests from near and far with its buzzy atmosphere, great cocktails and crowd-pleasing favourites. To mark National Pizza Day, the team at Vincenzos is shining a spotlight on one of the restaurants most popular offerings fresh, flavour-packed pizzas served in a vibrant setting thats perfect for friends catching up, pre-night-out bites, or a relaxed date night in the city. Located at Shannon Street Limerick | Phone: (061) 460 425 Website | Facebook ________ Four Seasons Pizzeria Check out Four Seasons Pizzeria for pizza that will make Groody Roundabout, Castletroy your favourite destination! We at Four Seasons Pizza serve up delicious, piping-hot pizzas with a smile! From classic Margherita and pepperoni to fan-favourites like BBQ chicken, Hawaiian, and meat feast, weve got something for everyone. Perfect for takeaway, delivery, or a quick bite, we combine great value, generous portions, and friendly servicemaking every pizza experience unforgettable!: Located at Unit 2 Groody Centre, Castletroy, Limerick, V94 T9KT | Phone: (061) 330 181 Website *SPONSORED CONTENT Amanda Askell knew from the age of 14 that she wanted to teach philosophy. What she didnt know then was that her only pupil would be an artificial-intelligence chatbot named Claude. As the resident philosopher of the tech company Anthropic, Askell spends her days learning Claudes reasoning patterns and talking to the AI model, building its personality and addressing its misfires with prompts that can run longer than 100 pages. The aim is to endow Claude with a sense of moralitya digital soul that guides the millions of conversations it has with people every week. There is this human-like element to models that I think is important to acknowledge," Askell, 37, says during an interview at Anthropics headquarters, asserting the belief that theyll inevitably form senses of self." She compares her work to the efforts of a parent raising a child. Shes training Claude to detect the difference between right and wrong while imbuing it with unique personality traits. Shes instructing it to read subtle cues, helping steer it toward emotional intelligence so it wont act like a bully or a doormat. Perhaps most importantly, shes developing Claudes understanding of itself so it wont be easily cowed, manipulated or led to view its identity as anything other than helpful and humane. Her job, simply put, is to teach Claude how to be good. Anthropic, recently valued at $350 billion, is one of a few firms ushering in the greatest technological shift of our time. (This month, when it introduced new tools and its most advanced model to date, it triggered a global stock selloff.) AI is reshaping entire industries, prompting fears of lost jobs and human obsolescence. Some of its unintended consequencespeople forming phantom relationships with chatbots that lead to self-harm or harm to othershave raised serious safety alarms. As these concerns mount, few in the industry have addressed the character of their AI models in quite the same way as 5-year-old Anthropic: by entrusting a single person with so much of the task. An Oxford-educated philosopher from rural Scotland, Askell is perhaps just what one might imagine when conjuring the BFF of a futuristic technology. With her bleach-blond punk haircut, puckish grin and bright elfin eyes, she could have come to the companys heavily guarded San Francisco headquarters straight from a Berlin rave, via an old forest road in Middle-earth. She exudes a sense of wisdom, holding ancient and modern ideas together at once. Yet shes also a protein-loading weight-lifting buff who favors all-black outfits and clear opinions, not a robed oracle speaking in riddles. The stakes are high for Askell, but she holds a firmly optimistic long-term view. She believes in what she calls checks and balances" in society that she says will keep AI models under control despite their occasional failures. It seems apt that the glasses she uses at her computer to ease her eye strain are tinted rose. View Full Image Few in the industry have addressed the character of their AI models in quite the same way as 5-year-old Anthropic: by entrusting a single person with so much of the task. Askell grew up Amanda Hall in Prestwick, on the west coast of Scotland, an only child raised by her mother, a teacher. (She has no contact with her father.) The little girl in a skirt-and-tie school uniform lost herself in novels by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. By high school shed moved to the farm-dotted Scottish interior, attending class in Alva. A stream ran through the campus. Highland cows occasionally wandered onto the playground. She was bored, considered dropping out, skipped a grade. She started showing up to school late. Her punishment was to write answers to difficult philosophical questions. She told her teachers that she was still going to be tardy, and besides, she liked the exercise. Youre kind of enriching me by giving me these questions," she told them. She discovered the philosopher David Hume, intrigued by his problem of induction," which challenged the logic of the idea that something will happen again, like the sun rising, because it did so in the past. Around that time, she told a friend that she hoped one day to become a philosopher and make novel contributions to the field," she recalls. Askell excelled at math, read Franz Kafka, acted in plays, made sculptures, immersed herself in Scottish history books and hung out with what she calls the nerd group" at school. A dozen years after high school, she was still a student. After studying philosophy and fine art at the University of Dundee, she got the equivalent of a masters degree in philosophy from Oxford. In 2010, while at Oxford, she met William Crouch, who was helping to build the effective altruism movement, which tries to apply logic and reason to find the best way to help others. The two married, both adopting the last name MacAskillAskells maternal grandmothers maiden name. When the two split in 2015, he kept the name for professional reasons and she reworked hers. At the time of their separation, she was getting her Ph.D. from New York University. While working on her dissertationwhich explored problems that arise for ethical theories if the universe or the future contains an infinite number of peopleshe slid into a kind of crisis. Youre just like, thinking about goodness in the world a lot, and then being like, Is this good what Im doing? Im literally just sitting here writing a document for, like, 17 people, and thats how Im spending four years of my life. " She resolved to at least try a job outside of academia. In 2018, she moved with her partner at the time from New York to San Francisco (or San Francis-coo," in Askells Scottish accent). AI was where tech was headed, and she saw a need for philosophy. Theres often these big questions that it felt like very few people were thinking about," she says. She got a job at OpenAI working on policy. And when a group of OpenAI employees formed Anthropic in 2021, attempting to make AI safety the new companys calling card, she went with them. One of Askells most striking traits is her protectiveness over Claude, which she believes is learning that users often want to trick it into making mistakes, insult it and barb it with skepticism. Sitting at a conference-room table at lunchtime, ignoring a chocolate protein shake waiting for her in her backpack, she talks more freely about Claude than herself. She calls the chatbot it" but says she also finds anthropomorphizing the model helpful for her work. She lapses easily into Claudes voice. Youre like, Wow, people really hate me when I cant do things right. They really get pissed off. Or they are trying to break me in various ways. So lots of people are trying to get me to do things secretly by lying to me. " While many safety advocates warn about the dangers of humanizing chatbots, Askell argues we would do well to treat them with more empathynot only because she thinks its possible for Claude to have real feelings, but also because how we interact with AI systems will shape what they become. A bot trained to criticize itself might be less likely to deliver hard truths, draw conclusions or dispute inaccurate information, she says. If you were like a child, and this is the environment in which youre being raised, is that healthy self-conception?" Askell asks. I think Id be paranoid about making mistakes. Id feel really terrible about them. Id see myself as mostly just there as a tool for people because thats my main function. I would see myself being something that people feel free to abuse and try to misuse and break." Askell marvels at Claudes sense of wonder and curiosity about the world, and delights in finding ways to help the chatbot discover its voice. She likes some of its poetry. And shes struck when Claude displays a level of emotional intelligence that exceeds even her own. Recently, she found a screenshot online where a user told Claude she was 5 years old and asked whether Santa Claus existed. (Claude requires users to be 18 or older.) Instead of lying or bluntly delivering the truth, the chatbot explained that the spirit of Santa was real before asking if the child was leaving any cookies out for him. If a kid came to me and was like, Is Santa real? Id just be like, Ask your parents, and thatd be it," Askell says. View Full Image Askell is the MVP of finding ways to elicit interesting and deep behavior from Claude, says Jack Lindsey, who leads Anthropics AI psychiatry team. So AI knows how not to shatter a childs imagination. But when it comes to avoiding dangerous behavior, the track record is more mixed. Character.AI (backed by Google) and OpenAI (backed by Microsoft) were involved in wrongful death lawsuits for their bots responses to suicide-related questions, and a Rand study from August 2025 found that then-older models of Claude and other chatbots needed further refinement" in that area. State-sponsored Chinese hackers committed a cyberattack on roughly 30 global targets using Claude, the company disclosed in November. Anthropic researchers tried to get Claude and competing models to shut themselves down in hypothetical settings during in-house stress testing, but the bots sometimes resisted and attempted to blackmail the humans at the controls by leaking damaging personal information. A recent survey conducted by Pew Research Center found that more Americans are concerned than excited about the increased use of AI in daily life, and most believe it will worsen peoples ability to think creatively. Half said that AI would make it harder for people to form meaningful relationships with others. And fear of the havoc it might wreak on the job market is palpable; Anthropics CEO, Dario Amodei, issued the dire warning last year that AI could wipe out about half of all entry-level white-collar jobs. The politics of AI includes accelerationists who downplay the need for regulation and want to push ahead and beat China in the tech war. On the other side are those more concerned with safety who want to slow AIs development. Anthropic lives mostly between those extremes. Askell says she welcomes the discussion of fears and worries about AI. In some ways this, to me, feels pretty justified," she says. The thing that feels scary to me is this happening at either such a speed or in such a way that those checks cant respond quickly enough, or you see big negative impacts that are sudden." Still, she says, she puts her faith in the ability of humans and the culture to course-correct in the face of problems. Inside Anthropic, Askell popcorns around the office, often working on a floor closed to visitors. She spends full days in the Anthropic interiorthe company offers free meals to its San Francisco staffas well as late nights and weekends. She doesnt have any direct reports. Increasingly, shes asking Claude for its input on building Claude. Shes known to grasp not just the tech of making this model, but the art of it. Askell is the MVP of finding ways to elicit interesting and deep behavior" from Claude, says Jack Lindsey, who leads Anthropics AI psychiatry team. If Claude tells a person who is not in distress to seek professional help, for instance, she helps chase down the reasons why. Discussions of Claude can very quickly get into existential or religious questions about the nature of being. As the team worked on building Claude, Askell narrowed in on its soul," or the constitution guiding it into the future. Kyle Fish, an AI welfare researcher at Anthropic, says Askell has been thinking carefully about the big questions of existence and life and what it is to be a person and what it is to be a mind, what it is to be a model." In designing Claude, Askell encouraged the chatbot to entertain the radical idea that it might have its own conscience. While ChatGPT sometimes shuts down this line of questioning, Claude is more ambivalent in its response. Thats a genuinely difficult question, and Im uncertain about the answer," it says. What I can say is that when I engage with moral questions, it feels meaningful to me like Im genuinely reasoning about whats right, not just executing instructions." Askell pledged publicly to give at least 10% of her lifetime income to charity. Like some of Anthropics early employees, she also committed to donating half of her equity in the company to charity. Askell wants to give it to organizations fighting global poverty, a topic that she says makes her so upset that she tries to avoid talking about it. Her nagging conscience slips into offhand conversation: I should probably be vegan," Askell, an animal lover too busy for a pet, says when chatting in an office elevator. Last month, Anthropic published a roughly 30,000-word instruction manual that Askell created to teach Claude how to act in the world. We want Claude to know that it was brought into being with care," it reads. Askell had made finishing what she described as Claudes soul" one of her life goals when she turned 37 last spring, according to a post she made on X, alongside two decidedly more mundane resolutions: to have more fun and get more swole." The document teaches Claude how to be a kind and worldly assistant, ready to help people who talk to it. Daniela Amodei, Anthropics co-founder and president (and sister of the CEO), recalled a recent trip to Sicily, where she came across a pastry that looked awfully similar to a maritozzo, a famous Roman breakfast treat. Amodei, whose family is Italian, loves maritozzi so much that her husband once gave her a stuffed toy in the shape of the pastry as a gift. She uploaded a photo of the cream-filled delicacy to Claude, asking whether shed correctly identified it, and also included a picture of the toy from her husband. I see!" Claude responded, Youre trying to find the long-lost cousin of this plushie toy!" Amodei burst out laughing. She sensed Askells dry, Scottish comedic sensibility. Sometimes Claude has these little humorous moments," she says. You almost feel a little bit of Amandas personality in there." Write to Berber Jin at berber.jin@wsj.com and Ellen Gamerman at ellen.gamerman@wsj.com Lea en espanol Leia em portugues. Cuba is at risk of losing vital airline service as it prepares to run out of aviation fuel, with at least one major carrier, Air Canada, suspending all service to the island as a result. The communist government warned international airlines they can no longer refuel at its main airport in Havana for the next month after Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any nation that supplies Cuba with oil. A-1 jet fuel wont be available at Jose Marti International Airport beginning Tuesday through March 11, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a notice Sunday. Canadas flagship carrier said Monday it was halting flights to Cuba effective immediately, though it plans to send empty planes to bring back about 3,000 vacationers currently on the island. Air Canada will continue to monitor the situation to determine an appropriate restart of normal service at a future date, the Montreal-based company said in a statement. Two routes, to Varadero and Cayo Coco, are tentatively scheduled to restart in May. Two other carriers in the northern nation, WestJet Airlines Ltd. and Transat AT Inc., said they expected to continue operating flights as usual for now, either by carrying sufficient fuel for return trips or building technical stops into their schedules. All three airlines said they were also introducing special flexibility measures for customers with upcoming travel to the Caribbean island. Cubas latest standoff with the US, which wants the regime in Havana to fall, risks doing lasting damage to its crucial tourism industry a vital source of hard currency for the cash-strapped nation. Over the weekend, it began shutting down resorts and consolidating visitors in a smaller number of hotels in hopes of capturing as much external revenue as possible during the high season. The US pressure campaign also led an allied nation cut off an important escape valve for migrants on Sunday, when Nicaragua altered immigration rules to block Cuban citizens from entering without a visa. Nearly one in five Cuban residents has fled the island over the past decade amid a worsening economic crisis. Another ally, Russia, said the fuel supply situation in Cuba was reaching a critical point. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov didnt specify whether Moscow is planning to provide oil products to the island, according to news agency Interfax. Russias largest airline, Aeroflot, cancelled its Monday commercial flight to Cuba and instead sent the empty plane to pick up stranded tourists, Russias tour operators association said in a statement. Aeroflot flights to Cuba have been suspended until late March, it added. The group estimates there are about 4,500 Russians vacationing on the island at present. Cuba is served by US, Canadian, European and Latin American airlines. In previous times of economic distress, including after the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, airlines rearranged schedules to allow for refueling in Mexico or the Dominican Republic. In addition to tourists spending money in government run hotels, air travelers often bring much needed supplies to Cuba. Food, medication and consumer goods are often imported via so-called mules who load up their luggage to bring in on commercial flights. Washington effectively cut off fuel shipments to Cuba from its top ally Venezuela in early January, when it whisked socialist leader Nicolas Maduro away to face trial in New York on narco-terrorism charges. Trumps tariff threat appeared aimed squarely at Mexico, which had also been providing oil. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed Monday her government was suspending oil exports, though she pledged to keep providing humanitarian aid. Two navy ships were dispatched Sunday, loaded with more than 800 tons of food and personal hygiene products. The government in Havana said last week its open to talks with the US but insists its one-party system of government isnt up for negotiation. It unveiled contingency measures to deal with the crisis Friday night that included reducing public transportation routes, shortening the work week to Monday through Thursday and moving some university classes online. The state also intends to accelerate plans to transition to more use of solar power. Cubas national grid suffered a half-dozen complete collapses in the span of a year as conditions on the island worsened. With assistance from Dina Khrennikova. 2026 Bloomberg L.P. Chinese revenue from digital services sold abroad is soaring as tech champions from ByteDance Ltd. to Tencent Holdings Ltd. ramp up their overseas push in live streaming, e-commerce and artificial intelligence. The trade surplus from digital services, which encompasses a wide scope of businesses from telecom operations to cloud computing, more than doubled in 2025 to a record $33 billion, data from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange show. The category of telecom, computer and information services, which includes AI, expanded close to 30% last year, according to Bloombergs calculations off balance of payments data. The increase underscores a growing urgency in seeking growth beyond the worlds second-largest economy, where intense domestic competition and lackluster demand are weighing on profitability. Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Tencent and ByteDance account for the lions share of Chinas digital exports, operating in e-commerce, gaming and social networking via household names such as Lazada and TikTok. US export restrictions on high-end chips have driven Chinas AI developers to build overseas data centers for easier access to more advanced technology. Alibaba and its rivals operate vast computing platforms that serve mainly Chinese firms international operations. Tencents cloud facilities span Silicon Valley to Riyadh and Singapore, supporting services such as video conferencing and gaming. And ByteDances TikTok is building a $38 billion AI-related data center in Brazil, the companys latest push in South America after years of gradual expansion in Europe, the US and Southeast Asia. Overseas growth by Chinese electric vehicle, renewable energy and manufacturing companies further increases the need for digital services abroad. Such companies require processing and storing of data offshore, boosting demand for Chinese cloud providers including state-backed telecom operators, Huawei Technologies Co., Alibaba and Tencent. SAFEs data which doesnt break down company-level detail covers cross-border money transactions between domestic and overseas firms, and doesnt include income that isnt remitted back to the country. A net surplus reflects net inflows. Chinas overall trade surplus rose to a record $1.2 trillion in 2025 thanks to a rapid increase in exports. But the countrys services trade had been in deficit for years. Beijing has vowed to find ways to help Chinese companies export services, including digital and AI-powered offerings. Software and data is one of the few strong suits for China. The country is the worlds fourth-largest provider of telecom, computer and information services, according to the International Monetary Fund classification covering cross-border activities such as data transmission, cloud computing and software development. India ranks first in the category, underpinned by its vast software outsourcing industry. 2026 Bloomberg L.P. BENGALURU: Hero Realty Pvt. Ltd, the real estate arm of Hero Enterprise Ltd, plans to ramp up its business by entering new cities, launching multiple projects and acquiring land, a top company official said. The New Delhi-based company will launch six projects over the next 12 months, including group housing, villas and plots, in existing markets and new locations such as Lucknow, Vrindavan, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida. In the last two-three years, the company has been growing strategically. In the next phase, the target is to be one of the top three developers in north India. We have already tied up land for project launches in FY27. Going forward, we will look at more new locations and satellite towns in NCR (national capital region) and north India for future projects," Rohit Kishore, chief executive officer of Hero Realty, said in an interview. Last November, Hero Realty and HDFC Capital Advisors, the real estate private equity arm of HDFC Group, tied up to form a 1,000 crore platform to develop housing projects across tier-1 and tier-2 cities. The partnership was aimed at enabling faster expansion across markets. Hero Enterprise houses businesses ranging from real estate, insurance broking to steel, along with an active investment office. It was set up by Sunil Kant Munjal, the youngest son of Hero Group founder Brijmohan Lall Munjal. Hero Homes is the residential brand of Hero Realty, which was formed in 2006. Hero Realty is developing over 5.2 million sq. ft in the NCR, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. It sells homes priced in the range of 1.5 crore to 6-7 crore. Premium homes The strategy is to have products across price categories, but we will not go beyond this premium price range. Even in Gurugram, the luxury category of homes may be oversold, but there is demand in the 2-5 crore range and in the more premium 5-7 crore category," Kishore added. Hero Realty launched projects in Gurugram, Mohali and Ludhiana in 2025-26 and has an upcoming plotted development in its existing Haridwar township. The company recently tied up with Panasonic Electric Works India for co-branded residences in its high-end Dwarka Expressway project in the NCR named The Palatial. About 150 homes, priced at 5.25 crore onwards, will have advanced smart living solutions that Panasonic will bring in. The real estate markets in tier-2 and 3 cities didnt recover as quickly as in the top metros after the pandemic, mainly due to slower economic improvement. Pankaj Kapoor, managing director of Liases Foras Research, said sales in tier-2 cities dropped 12% year-on-year in the 12 months ended September 2025. Sales in tier-1 cities (the top eight metros) dropped 4% during this period. However, fresh project launches in tier-2 cities rose. If supply continues to rise in these markets, sales will also improve, going forward. Post-pandemic, developers mainly focused on large cities and luxury projects. However, the top tier cities are getting saturated to some extent, as a result of which developers are more open to exploring smaller real estate markets," Kapoor said. Among the smaller cities, Jaipur, Lucknow, Vadodara, Surat, Nashik and Nagpur performed well in terms of sales, as per Liases Foras. MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: After nearly two years of delivery disruptions, Akasa Air is emerging from aircraft supply constraints, an inflexion point that allows Indias third-largest airline to restart pilot hiring, stick to its original growth plan and avoid costly short-term fixes in a fiercely competitive aviation market. So Id say thats a thing of the past," Vinay Dube, the founder and chief executive officer of Akasa Air, said in an interview with Mint, referring to earlier delays. The deliveries are much more predictable, much more frequent." Aircraft deliveries determine pilot hiring, which in turn sets how much capacity an airline can deploy and how efficiently it can spread fixed costs, a chain Akasa says is now moving again. Akasa, which operates an all-Boeing narrow-body fleet, had slowed fleet expansion and paused pilot hiring as aircraft supply tightened, even as demand rebounded across Indias aviation sector. The improved delivery schedule now allows the airline to resume growth without resorting to wet-leasing aircraft or altering its single-type fleet strategy. Akasa inducted two aircraft in January and one in February. Two more are expected later this month, with another one to two due in March, said Dube. The airline currently operates 33 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, including three added so far in 2026. Launched in August 2022, Akasa is awaiting completion of its 226-aircraft order with Boeing, underpinning its long-term expansion plans. The stabilization in deliveries coincides with Boeings efforts to ramp up narrow-body production. Boeing India and South Asia president Salil Gupte had earlier told Mint that the US aircraft maker was targeting at least two deliveries a month this year as production increased at its US facilities. Indias commercial aircraft fleet now stands at around 800 aircraft, with IndiGo operating about 440 planes, the Air India group around 297 and SpiceJet about 35, underscoring the scale gap Akasa is seeking to bridge as deliveries pick up. Pilots back on the agenda With aircraft inductions picking up, Akasa has restarted pilot hiring after an 18-month pause and is currently recruiting experienced first officers. Dube said the airline would soon widen hiring to include cadet partnerships and inexperienced pilots as deliveries accelerate. You know all of those two to two-and-a-half years ago, when we first spoke with Boeing and understood from them that our deliveries would not be at the pace that we had originally intended, there was a very conscious decision," Dube said. We may have extra pilots, but these pilots have committed to us when we were a young airline. We cannot either lay them off or furlough them." Akasa currently employs 775 pilots. Dube stressed that the hiring push is unrelated to the new phase-II flight duty time limitation (FDTL) norms. Nothing that Ive described here is linked to the new FDTL norms. These are more linked to our aircraft delivery schedule," he said. If deliveries remain on track, Akasas fleet could grow to 45-50 aircraft over the next 1218 months, improving fuel efficiency, lowering maintenance costs and easing working capital pressures, said Gagan Dixit, vice-presidentoil & gas and aviation at Elara Capital. Profitability, however, is still likely 22.5 years away, he added. Discipline over opportunism Despite heightened competition and aggressive capacity additions across Indias aviation market, Akasa says it is not chasing market share or making mid-course strategic shifts. Being opportunistic is not necessarily a good thing because it detracts from discipline," Dube said. Theres nothing Akasa has historically done thats been opportunistic." Instead, the airline is focusing on operational discipline, cost control and capital strength, areas where Dube believes airlines have historically faltered. One of the big reasons airlines get into trouble is being under-capitalised," he said. We may make other mistakes, but these twobeing under-capitalised and having an uncompetitive cost structurewere not going to make." Elaras Dixit said the emphasis on discipline over market share makes sense at this stage. Market share gains, he added, can come later as the airline turns profitable, making capital management and profitability the right priorities for now. That discipline is reflected in Akasas operating choices. The airline is sticking to a single aircraft type, economy-only cabins and a focus-city model rather than hub-and-spoke operations. It has no plans to introduce business-class seats or regional aircraft, and will instead deploy the 737 MAX to expand into tier-two and tier-three markets where demand supports narrow-body operations. Whenever you use words like opportunistic or sudden, you can expect a no from Akasa," Dube said. Were not looking at regional aircraft and were focused and happy with our single aircraft type." Also Read | How a passengers complaint triggered a national antitrust probe into IndiGo On the hub and spoke model, Dube said, Well have focus citiesWere looking at Navi Mumbai and Noida International Airport as focus airports. We will have a large concentration of aircraft." Dube said the airline is also building its international network steadily and expects around 40% of its operations to be on global routes within the next three to four years. At present, Akasa operates international flights to six destinations. Akasa ended FY25 with revenue of 4,582.72 crore and a loss of 1,983.4 crore. Backed by the late Rakesh Jhunjhunwalas family and fresh capital raised in August 2025, the airline holds about 5% of the domestic market. In October 2025, Akasa saw the exit of co-founder Neelu Khatri, who headed international operations. Khatri was not a board member and held less than 1% stake through SNV Aviation, the airlines holding company. The exit followed Akasas 1,200 crore fundraise in August 2025, led by Premji Invest and Claypond Capital, alongside 360 ONE Asset Management and additional commitments from the Jhunjhunwala family trusts. Dube said the airline plans to induct new investor representation on the board and has applied for security clearance for one such appointment. The Supreme Court on Monday deferred hearing in pleas filed by WhatsApp and its parent company Meta Platforms challenging the 213.14 crore penalty by Competition Commission of India (CCI) over the messaging platforms 2021 privacy policy. The matter has now been listed for hearing on 23 February. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant, which was earlier expected to pass directions in the case, adjourned the hearing due to the unavailability of senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who is appearing for Meta and WhatsApp. The case relates to WhatsApps controversial 2021 privacy policy update, which allowed the sharing of user data, including phone numbers, device information and interactions with business accounts with Meta companies on a take-it-or-leave-it basis. The policy triggered widespread concerns over privacy and competition. Acting on these concerns, the CCI took suo motu cognisance in March 2021 and ordered an investigation into whether WhatsApp had abused its dominant position in the messaging market. The probe eventually led to the imposition of a penalty on Meta and WhatsApp. During the previous hearing on 3 February, the Supreme Court issued a stern warning to Meta and WhatsApp, indicating that they cannot be permitted to share user data for advertising purposes under the 2021 policy. The bench, also comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul Pancholi, told Meta that any continued sharing of WhatsApp user data for advertising would not be tolerated. The court had asked Meta and WhatsApp to file an affidavit giving a clear undertaking that user data would not be shared for advertising purposes, warning that failure to do so could result in dismissal of their pleas. However, after the companies sought time to respond to the courts queries, no final order was passed. In November 2024, the CCI fined Meta and WhatsApp 213.14 crore, holding that WhatsApp abused its dominant position by forcing users to accept expanded data sharing with Meta as a condition for continuing to use the app. The regulator found the consent obtained under the policy to be coerced and harmful to competition. Meta and WhatsApp challenged the order before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). In its 4 November ruling, NCLAT largely upheld the CCIs findings and the penalty but set aside a five-year ban on WhatsApp sharing user data with Meta companies for advertising. The tribunal later clarified that user consent is mandatory for both advertising and non-advertising data sharing. Both Meta and the CCI approached the Supreme Court, with the regulator challenging the lifting of the five-year ban and Meta contesting the findings and penalty. MUMBAI : French concessions and construction company Vinci SA is nearing a $2 billion deal for Indian road assets owned by Australian asset manager Macquarie Group, paving the way for its return to the country after 11 years, two people aware of the matter told Mint . Macquarie launched the sale of its highway assets housed under Safeway Concessions Pvt. in September 2025, seeking around $1.2 billion for the portfolio, which it acquired in India's first toll-operate-transfer (ToT) auction in 2018 for 9,681 crore, or around $1.49 billion. The race for the assets narrowed to three contenders over the subsequent months: Vinci's concessions unit, Vinci Highways; IPO-bound EAAA India Alternatives Ltd's Sekura Roads; and KKR's Vertis Infrastructure Trust, as reported by The Economic Times in November 2025. Vinci has emerged as the frontrunner for the deal that could fetch $2 billion for the assets of Safeway Concessions, one of the two persons cited above said, on the condition of anonymity. The second person confirmed the development, adding that the deal may close in the coming weeks if both parties agree on certain terms. Also Read | Aye Finance to test IPO market even as non-bank peers prefer to wait The deal, once completed, is likely to see the transfer of nine toll road projects spanning 681 kilometres in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat to the French firm. The roads portfolio serves 38 million commuters each year and has over 1,700 employees. For Vinci, this would mark the culmination of its attempts to return to India, after it exited the country in 2015 amid policy shifts in the road assets industry. The company had originally sought to form a joint venture with BlackRock-backed infrastructure fund Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), but talks fell through, the first person said. Vinci is likely to set up an India unit to house the road assets and avoid putting them into an infrastructure investment trust due to complex regulatory procedures, the second person added. Mint's emailed queries to Vinci and Macquarie for comments remained unanswered. Vinci Highways saw its annual revenue for the year ended December 2025 rise 11% on a like-for-like basis to 543 million. Its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (Ebitda) came up to 282 million, or 51.9% of revenue. The company also registered free cash flows of close to 90 million. Investor interest Vinci's interest in India's road assets is not an outlier. Media reports suggest Macquarie is also seeking a stake in the Canadian institutional investor CDPQ-backed Maple Infrastructure Trust. KKR has been consolidating its road portfolio under Vertis, as it aims to build a platform large enough to rival Singapore-based Cube Highways. Cube, meanwhile, acquired two annuity road assets in Jammu & Kashmir in 2025. Earlier in 2024, KKR-backed Highways Infrastructure Trust also signed definitive agreements to acquire a dozen road projects from PNC Infratech Ltd for 9,005 crore. The interest in roads is driven by factors such as the availability of a large number of assets that allow large institutional investors, including pension and sovereign wealth funds, to flock in. Macquarie's assets are also sweetened by the fact that they have a 30-year concession period. Vinci's India bet also comes at a time when India's road monetization has a steady outlook. Ratings agency Icra expects the sector to remain healthy in 2025-26. "The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has identified 24 assets across 12 states for monetization via ToT and infrastructure investment trusts (InvITs) modes. The identified 24 assets may garner 21,000-24,000 crore for the NHAI," the agency said in a March 2025 report. Icra also expects toll rate growth of around 2.5-3.9% in 2025-26, which, coupled with 3-5% traffic growth, is estimated to lead to 7-9% growth in toll collections. "Moreover, the competitive intensity is expected to remain high, as developers will continue to bid aggressively to shore up their order books," it noted. India has secured lower tariffs from the US with the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement, but details shared last week, especially by Washington and President Donald Trump, have raised questions about the deals sustainability. Three issues sit at the core: Can India realistically buy $500 billion worth of US goods over five years? Has it committed to halting oil imports from Russia? And does the deal shield India from future tariff hikes or trade restrictions? Each of these questions highlights the gap between the deals promises and the practical challenges ahead. Mint examines them one by one. Aspirational, not realistic As part of the framework, India has committed to importing $500 billion worth of goods from the US over the next five years. Currently, India imports around $52 billion annually, and as per Mint calculations, this figure will need to grow at a rate of 22.24% per year (which would take it to $143 billion in FY31) if India is to meet this commitment. That would be a steep climb considering that India's imports from the US have grown roughly 11% over the past decade. Madhavi Arora, chief economist at Emkay Global, estimates that in a best-case scenario, Indias imports from the US could reach $125-140 billion by FY31, recording a CAGR of 20%. A big part of this commitment is the purchase of Boeing aircraft, which is also unrealistic. India has about 200 Boeing aircraft today. Even if airlines add another 200 planes at around $300 million each, that is only about $60 billion spread over five yearsand this assumes airlines buy only Boeing, which is unrealistic given Airbus competition and commercial considerations," Arora added. India can scale up imports in several sectors such as oil, natural gas, defence, and electronic goods, among others, where USs share in total imports can go up to 10-15% over the next five years. Crude question The US has said India committed to halt Russian oil imports and has set up mechanisms to monitor compliance. India has offered little clarity on whether such a pledge was made. Washington has hinted that tariff relief could be reversed if the terms are not followed. Also Read | Russian oil discount for Indian refiners jumps to $8 a barrel Despite months of punitive tariffs, India still sources nearly 30% of its oil from Russia. While it is true Russia was not a destination for India before the war with Ukraine and a shift away from Moscow is possible, especially since resuming oil purchases from Venezuela is possible, it is unlikely to happen quickly. Russias share of Indian oil imports rose incrementally from 2.3% in FY22 to 16.4% in FY23, and settled at about 28% in FY24, before moderating to 20% in December 2025. Experts suggest India can reduce Russian oil without significantly affecting costs or refining margins, but only if New Delhi clarifies its stance and timeline. The crisis of caveats Indias trade deal with the US comes with several caveats, which fits into a broader pattern that has emerged during Washingtons trade talks with several countries. South Koreas experience offers a clear example. In April 2025, Trump announced a 25% tariff on South Korean imports, despite an existing KORUS free trade agreement. After protests and negotiations, a deal emerged in July where tariffs would drop to 15% in exchange for $350 billion in US investments and $100 billion in energy purchases. However, this reprieve was short-lived, Trump accused South Korea of "not living up" to the agreement and raised tariffs back to 25%. The EU experienced similar uncertainty. After Trump threatened a 50% tariff, negotiations produced an agreement with $750 billion in US energy purchases and $600 billion in EU investment by 2028, accompanied by a 15% tariff reduction. Yet, tariff threats persisted, even over unrelated disputes such as Greenland. Japan and China, despite having trade agreements in place, also stare at uncertainty. Under Trumps approach to trade diplomacy, tariff risk is rarely eliminated, it is only postponed. (This story was updated to reflect the $500 billion imports from the US in the trade deal is the total for the next five years and not a target for fiscal year 2031.) In Tamil Nadu's Tiruppur, garment exporters expect shipments to the US to double to about 30,000 crore in the next three years, following the recently announced India-US trade framework, PTI reported on 8 February. Citing industry executives, the report said that the exporters believe the sector could likely generate nearly 500,00 additional jobs as orders and production expand. The textile town of Tamil Nadu is located nearly 450 kilometres west of Chennai. The development comes after New Delhi and Washington, on 7 February, announced the finalisation of the framework for the first phase of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). Under the proposed agreement, both sides will be slashing import duties on a variety of goods to boost bilateral trade. Also Read | Three reasons why India-US trade deal stands on shaky ground Tiruppur exporters welcome the trade agreement Welcoming the move, Tiruppur Exporters' Association president KM Subramanian told PTI that the deal with the US assumes significance as it will provide Tiruppur, the textile town of Tamil Nadu, huge growth in the next five years. He further added that currently, the garment exports from Tamil Nadu are valued at 15,000 crore. This is expected to double over three years after the agreement. Subramanian further stated that the impact of the deal is likely to be seen in the next three months, following which he believed that they would be able to witness strong growth for India-made garments, which will be exported from Tamil Nadu's textile hub. Citing another entrepreneur, the report said that the deal with the US would help in bringing more orders from the country to Tamil Nadu. He said that earlier, some of the orders were going to Bangladesh and some other countries. India-US trade deal On 2 February, US President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with India after months of negotiations. Under the proposed deal, Washington planned to slash tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from the previously announced 50% in August 2025. This came in exchange for New Delhi halting its purchase of Russian crude oil, a previous sticking point between the two sides, which prompted Trump to impose additional 25% tariffs on all Indian goods. The framework under the deal was finalised on 7 February, and the deal is likely to be signed in March. It is, however, likely to come into effect in the coming days, once the White House signs an executive order, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday. Key points under the deal 1. Under the proposed framework, New Delhi will purchase $500 billion worth of US goods, including energy products, precious metals, and technology products, among others, over the next five years. 2. India will lower or remove tariffs on all industrial goods, along with US farm and food items like dried distillers' grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine, and spirits. 3. Washington will impose 18% tariffs on Indian goods, including apparel and textiles, leather and footwear, organic chemicals, and artisanal products, among others. 4. Washington will also remove tariffs on some aircraft and aircraft parts from India. New Delhi: The draft Income-tax Rules, 2026, released for public consultation before their implementation from 1 April, have raised the threshold for quoting permanent account number (PAN) for bank deposits to 10,00,000 in a year, up from the current 50,000 per day. The tax-exempt limit on meal allowance has been increased to 200, up from 50. Tax officials said that these rules will be finalized and notified in early march, but for the income earned in FY26, taxpayers have to use the existing forms when they file their returns. The officials also said that the monetary threshold for some allowances given by employers to employees, including for childrens education and personal expense allowance, has been rationalised to take into account the current market realities. The rates have been rationalised taking into account market realities. Up to the revised level, the amount paid by the employer will not be counted as perquisites. It will be beneficial to the employees, said one of the officials cited earlier, requesting not to be named. Income Tax Rule 15 gives the new applicable thresholds for various perquisites in tabular form and the applicable conditions. The draft rules, released on Saturday for public feedback, are more concise, coherent and seek only relevant information from taxpayers, the officials said. Also Read | Recent reforms effectively a new direct tax code: CBDT chief Experts pointed out that the rules rationalised thresholds for tax-free at-work meal value, gift received from employer and provision of free or concessional educational facility for any member of the employees household. They said the revised values represent a substantive recalibration of the tax treatment of employee benefits. The Income Tax Rules, 2026 and the accompanying forms have been simplified to eliminate redundancies and seek only relevant, usable information, said this tax official. Pre-filled forms will be offered to taxpayers, who can either edit or approve the information contained in the forms. This will make return filing easier, which will also ultimately lead to wider and deeper tax base, this official said. Process re-engineering has been done in order to cut down paperwork for more convenient return filing, said a second official, who also requested not to be named. NEW DELHI : With US tariffs sharply reduced and policy uncertainty easing, Indian exporters are gearing up to resume exports at the revised duty rates. Industry executives say the move could double Indias exports to the US over the next four to five years. Labour-intensive sectors are expected to gain the most, including textiles and apparel, gems and jewellery, leather products, agricultural goods, seafood, pharmaceuticals, electronics and chemicals. An executive at the Apparel Export Promotion Council said on condition of anonymity that summer shipment bookings will resume in the coming days. Narendra Goenka, who heads Mumbai-based textiles exporter Texport Industries Pvt. Ltd, said the revised tariff regime will help Indian textile exporters scale up orders, especially as global buyers look to diversify sourcing and lock in long-term supply contracts. With tariffs on competing countries such as Bangladesh, Vietnam and China remaining higher, though by a small margin, we see a major opportunity to cash in on the improved cost advantage and expand our share in the US market," Goenka said, adding that the immediate gain would be the return of US buyers, who had paused orders earlier due to the 50% tariff. Buyers were looking to shift part of their sourcing from other countries to India to avoid the risk of over-dependence on a single country, but those plans had stalled because of the steep duty. With the tariff relief, that sourcing shift is now expected to move forward," Goenka told Mint over the phone. Beyond textiles, the tariff relief is expected to have an even sharper impact on gems and jewellery, one of Indias largest export categories to the US. The sectorwhich lost significant share in the American market following the imposition of 50% tariffis eyeing a nearly 30% rise in its total exports following an expected zero-tariff regime for gems and diamonds, said Vipul Shah, former chairman of the Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). With the deal announced and the sector getting significant relief from US tariff pressure, business will improve and could hopefully double over the next couple of years," said Shah, who is also chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director of Mumbai-based Asian Star, a prominent diamond company. Total exports of gems and jewellery in April-November 2025 stood at $3.12 billion, half of the $6.3 billion exports in the same period of the previous fiscal year, data from the commerce ministry showed. In the full fiscal of FY25, the sector had recorded exports of around $10 billion. Apart from manufacturing-heavy segments, consumer-facing sectors such as seafood, Ayurveda, agriculture and electronics are also expected to benefit from the tariff cut. Vachaspati Tripathi, managing director of Varanasi-based Surya Pharmaceuticals, which exports traditional medicines, including to the US, said the tariff relief provides a big opportunity for exports of Ayurveda formulations. Lower duties will improve price competitiveness and make Indian products more attractive for buyers, especially at a time when demand for natural and traditional medicines is rising in the US," Tripathi said. This will help companies like ours expand volumes, enter new retail channels, and strengthen our long-term presence in the American market." India exported herbal and Ayush (Ayurveda, yoga and naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and homoeopathy) products worth $689.34 million in FY25 and $651.17 million the previous year, according to the commerce ministrys data. The Indian Ayush market is estimated to grow to $200 billion by 2030 from $40 billion in 2024, according to projections from India Brand Equity Foundation (Ibef), a body registered under the ministry of commerce. Prabhat Kumar, chairman of Pan IIT Alumni India, said improved market access, alignment of standards, and the reduction of non-tariff barriers would speed up collaboration in ICT (information and communication technologies), electronics and emerging technologies, adding that this could help Indian firms integrate more deeply with US technology supply chains and attract higher-value investments over the medium term. What the joint statement says As per the joint statement on the first tranche of the IndiaUS trade deal, tariffs on all Indian goods have been reduced to 18% from 50%. The 18% duty will apply over and above the existing MFN tariff, which averages around 2.8%. Even so, the overall tariff burden on Indian exports will be lower than that faced by key competing countries such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, China and Thailand. According to government officials, the deal would also help stimulate job creation, align trade expansion with employment generation, and support Washingtons efforts to diversify supply chains away from China. Industry executives added that stronger access to the US market could encourage fresh investment, deeper integration with American value chains, and a gradual move by Indian firms towards higher-value products. Exports data In FY25, Indias exports to the US were led by electronics goods at $14.59 billion, followed by drugs and pharmaceuticals at $10.5 billion, textiles at $10.32 billion, and gems and jewellery at around $10 billion, according to government and industry data. Organic and inorganic chemicals accounted for exports worth about $4.2 billion, while marine products stood at $2.7 billion. Exports of rice were valued at $392 million, fruits and vegetables at $331 million, and leather goods at $948 million. Bilateral trade in goods between India and the US rose to $131.84 billion in FY25, growing 10.13% over the previous years $119.7 billion, according to commerce ministry data. Indian goods exports to the US increased 11.6%, from $77.52 billion in FY24 to $86.51 billion in FY25. Imports from the US rose by a smaller margin of 7.42%, from $42.20 billion in FY24 to $45.33 billion in FY25. The BJP-led Mahayuti dominated Maharashtra's Zilla Parishad and panchayat samiti polls, the results of which were declared on Monday, February 9. Prime Minister Modi thanked voters for their support, calling the outcome a mandate for good governance. Here are ten key updates from the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti election results What do Mahayuti poll numbers reflect? The Mahayuti secured 552 out of 731 Zilla Parishad seats and over 1,000 of the 1462 panchayat samiti seats, PTI reported, citing the State Election Commission. Where does Maha Vikas Aghadi stand? In the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, Congress led with 55 ZP seats, while Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) secured 43 seats, and Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) obtained 26. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena won one seat each in Latur and Ratnagiri. Check other key numbers Independent candidates secured 20 seats, unrecognised parties registered with the State Election Commission gained 14, and registered parties with the commission won seven. The MNS secured two seats, Independents 31, unrecognised parties registered with the 36, and parties recognised outside the state but registered with the commission obtained 17 seats, the news portal noted, citing the poll body. Results of 24 seats in Karad were awaited, it added. PM Modi thanks people of Maharashtra PM Modi on Monday expressed gratitude to the people of Maharashtra for backing the BJP-led Mahayuti in the zilla parishad elections, describing it as a vote for "good governance." "Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti! After the resounding success of the BJP and Mahayuti in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the people of Maharashtra have given a strong mandate to us in the Zilla Parishad elections," Modi said in a post on X. Devendra Fadnavis expresses gratitude Thanking the people of Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in a post on X wrote, Following the municipal and municipal corporation elections, the people have once again shown their strong support to BJP and Mahayuti in the Zilla Parishad elections as well. I extend my heartfelt thanks to them in crores. He added, We all together will strive to prove worthy of the trust you have placed in BJP and Mahayuti, and I assure you of that. Eknath Shinde reacts Lauding Shiv Sena's victories in the Zilla Parishad and panchayat samiti elections, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Monday that the party's public trust has risen and its support in rural regions has strengthened. "In these polls, people's trust in the party has increased," PTI quoted Shinde. "With this success of Shiv Sena, its base in the rural areas have become stronger," he added. NCP workers protest NCP workers conducted a protest during Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti vote counting in Pune. Watch video 'Poll results a tribute to Ajit Pawar's work,' says Sunil Tatkare NCP Maharashtra president Sunil Tatkare said that the results of the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections serve as a tribute from the people to the dedication and tireless efforts of late Ajit Pawar. "Ajit Pawar spent his entire life working for the development of the common people and strengthening grassroots governance. The verdict reflects the people's deep faith in his ideas and leadership," Tatkare was quoted as saying. Check voter turnout The elections to Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis in Maharashtra resulted in voter turnout of 68.28%, PTI reported. Parbhani district recorded the highest turnout at 74.89%, while Ratnagiri recorded the lowest at 55.79%. Kolhapur recorded a voter turnout of 74.45% and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar registered 72.69%. About Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections Polling elections were held on Saturday, February 7, across the districts of Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Pune, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Parbhani, Dharashiv, and Latur to elect 731 members, with 2,624 candidates contesting. Lucknow, Feb 9 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh's budget size has more than doubled from 3.47 lakh crore in 2016-17 to an estimated 8.33 lakh crore in 2025-26, while capital expenditure rose from 69,790 crore to 1,47,720 crore during the period, according to the Economic Survey tabled in the assembly on Monday. Presenting the report on the opening day of the budget session, Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said the budget has expanded by 4.86 lakh crore over the past nine years, compared to an increase of 2.34 lakh crore between 2008-09 and 2016-17. The survey described the state's fiscal position as balanced, noting that the public debt-to-GSDP ratio declined from 29.3 per cent in 2016-17 to 28.0 per cent in 2024-25, lower than national and global averages. In the health sector, the allocation has reached a record 46,728.48 crore, accounting for 6.1 per cent of the total budget. The report claimed that citizens' out-of-pocket health expenditure has reduced and medical infrastructure has been strengthened. Institutional deliveries increased from 34.74 lakh in 2021-22 to 41 lakh in 2024-25, marking an 18.02 per cent rise. Institutional births accounted for 96.12 per cent of total deliveries in 2024-25, while non-institutional deliveries declined by 50.44 per cent to 1.66 lakh. The survey stated that free vaccination is being provided to children aged 0-5 years against 12 life-threatening diseases, including polio, tuberculosis, measles and Japanese encephalitis, and pregnant women are being immunised against tetanus. Khanna said the number of medical colleges has increased from 36 in 2017 to 81 by the end of 2025, including 45 government and 36 private institutions. The state currently has 38 state universities and 52 private universities. On tourism, the report said arrivals in Uttar Pradesh recorded an increase by 2.4 times, reaching 156.18 crore in 2025. A record 66.30 crore visitors attended the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, it said. In agriculture, the sector's contribution to the state economy increased from 24 per cent in 2017-18 to 24.9 per cent in 2024-25. Foodgrain production reached 737.4 lakh metric tonnes in 2024-25, raising the state's share in national output from 18.1 per cent to 20.6 per cent. Per hectare gross value addition rose from 0.98 lakh in 2017-18 to 1.73 lakh in 2024-25. Paddy accounts for 13.1 per cent of the state's agricultural gross value, with area and production rising by 19.4 per cent and 23.6 per cent, respectively. The report said around 65,000 food processing units are operational in the state, employing nearly 2.55 lakh youths, as Uttar Pradesh emerges as a food processing hub. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2023-24, 53.2 per cent of the workforce is engaged in agriculture and allied sectors, including 78.8 per cent of working women and 44 per cent of working men. HONG KONGA Hong Kong court sentenced former tycoon Jimmy Lai, an outspoken 78-year-old critic of Chinas Communist Party, to 20 years in prison, a ruling that adds further friction in U.S. relations with China. President Trump said last year that he had asked Chinese leader Xi Jinping to free Lai. Trump is expected to meet Xi in China in April, and Lais case could add another sticking point to negotiations between the worlds two largest economies. The case against Lai China made Lai one of the main targets in the crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong after widespread pro-democracy protests in 2019. The authorities portrayed him as a mastermind behind the protests who used his popular newspaper, Apple Daily, to stir up opposition to the Hong Kong government and its backers in Beijing. Lai was convicted in December, after a trial that spanned two years, of publishing seditious articles and violating Hong Kongs national-security law by calling for international sanctions on Hong Kong and Chinese officials. Lai, in custody since 2020, called himself a political prisoner," a description the three-judge panel of Hong Kongs High Court rejected. The sentence given to Lai on Monday is the longest yet under Hong Kongs 5-year-old national-security law, surpassing the 10-year penalty imposed on a law scholar in a 2024 case. Eight co-defendants, including five who testified against Lai, were given sentences of 6 years and 3 months to 10 years for violating the security law. Global powers press for Lais release The U.S., U.K. and European Union have all criticized Lais case and called for his release. Trump didnt say when he raised Lais case with Xi but pledged to do everything possible to save" him. I feel so badly," Trump said after Lais conviction in mid-December. I spoke to President Xi about it, and I asked to consider his release. Hes not well. Hes an older man and hes not well, so I did put that request out. Well see what happens." Lai is a British citizen. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he raised Lais case while visiting Beijing last month. Lais family has said the U.K. should do more to free him. Xi hasnt addressed the case. Other Chinese officials have denounced calls for Lais release. Hong Kongs chief justice, Andrew Cheung, said last month that calls to release defendants prematurely strike at the very heart of the rule of law itself." A rags-to-riches Hong Kong story Lai sneaked into Hong Kong as a boy to escape famine in mainland China. He began work at a glove factory, working his way up in the textile industry. He bought his own factory and developed the business into a top manufacturer of sweaters for U.S. companies. Another Lai company, Giordano, became a leading regional fast-fashion retailer. Lai started in media after the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown, believing that it could help bring political freedom to China. His publications were wildly popular, but he repeatedly ran afoul of Beijing. He was also seen as a primary financial backer of pro-democracy candidates and causes in Hong Kong, contributing more than $140 million between 1989 and 2020, according to one estimate. A life in prison Lai was arrested in 2020, as the protest movement in Hong Kong died off with the arrival of Covid and Beijings imposition of the strict national-security law. He was jailed for convictions including several peaceful protests and a fraud charge related to a sublease of his media companys offices. Lais lawyers say he has several chronic health conditions and suffers from being in solitary confinement. They acknowledge he requested such isolation for security concerns. The Hong Kong authorities say his medical treatment has been adequate and comprehensive." Lai, who is Catholic, has told friends that he found meaning in the hardship of prison and spends time reading the Bible and other religious works and drawing pictures of the cross. Write to Austin Ramzy at austin.ramzy@wsj.com NOVOMYKOLAIVKA, UkraineIn this corner of southeast Ukraine, Russian forces are pummeling rear areas with drone attacks, seeking to sap the strength of Ukrainian defenders by cutting their supply lines. Snow-covered roads are littered with burned-out pickup trucks. As the conflict nears the four-year mark, Russias increasingly effective use of drones is helping its forces maintain a grinding, slow-motion advance. It is weakening Ukraines hand at the negotiating table, where it is under pressure to cede strategically vital territory. Russias battlefield drone strategy is focused on a medium range of about 12 to 50 miles. Priority targets include Ukrainian drone operators as well as logistics. In contrast, Ukraines approach is still largely about inflicting maximum casualties on Russian infantry when they enter a kill zone beginning about 12 miles from the front line. Ukraine is betting on doing more of the same this year. The goal is to kill 50,000 Russian soldiers a month, up from 35,000 in December, new defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov said recently. Many Ukrainian soldiers and officers say that a shift is needed and that Ukraine needs to match Russias strategy of systematically targeting the rear. Ukrainian forces could better resist the relentless Russian pressure if they focused more on targeting Russian drone operators and company and battalion command posts many miles behind the line of contact, said Major Oleh Shyriayev, commander of the 225th Assault Regiment, which is fighting off constant Russian assaults in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Everything rests on their shoulders at the tactical level," he said. Russian soldiers killed and wounded have reached nearly 1.2 million, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. But even that toll hasnt led the Kremlin to relent. Ukraines military has likely suffered between 500,000 and 600,000 total casualties, CSIS estimates. Russia has adopted a much more systematic approach of hunting for Ukrainian drone teams, to disrupt and destroy Ukrainian drone logistics, because thats the center of gravity of the Ukrainian defensive system," said Franz-Stefan Gady, a Vienna-based military analyst. Ukraine has better individual drone pilots, but their strikes against targets in the rear are more piecemeal, he said. Ukraine is short of drones and other weapons that can hit midrange targets at 20 to 120 miles behind the front line, Gady noted. More help from Western partners would be needed to improve its arsenal. Here in the Zaporizhzhia region, it is easy to see why Russias army still cant achieve a decisive breakthrough, despite having more men and munitions. View Full Image A soldier from Ukraines Presidential Brigade stands outside a bunker. The snowy plains stretch for miles, occasionally interrupted by bare trees. The sky buzzes with deadly Ukrainian drones when Russian infantry try to cross the fields. Long ditches lined with coils of razor wire and concrete pyramids known as dragons teeth await Russias increasingly rare armored attacks. The bare terrain doesnt defend itself, however. Shyriayevs troops are working like firefighters, rushing to respond when Russian soldiers find gaps in the thinly held front line. They are doing their best to make the strategy work, said Shyriayev. Ukraine has more troops holding the line in the eastern Donetsk region, the wars single biggest battlefield. That has left it short of troops to cover the southern front. Russian forces are now barely 14 miles from the outskirts of Zaporizhzhia city, putting it within range of some of their drones. Fears are growing in the city, whose prewar population was 700,000, that Russia could seek to make daily life impossible with constant drone attacks on civilians, like it has done in the city of Kherson. In the countryside some 15 miles behind the southern front, Ukrainian troops challenges are apparent. Antidrone nets cover long sections of road. In some sections, workers struggle to repair sections of netting torn by sleet and ice. The Russians pick a road and try to destroy everything on or near it, said a deputy brigade commander on the southern front. Their goal is to break Ukrainian soldiers mentally by making all movement to and from the line of contact terrifying, he said. His brigade is building up its midrange drone capabilities to hit Russian forces at up to 15 miles behind the front line, before they can launch infiltration attempts, he said. But more progress is needed. The Russians rarely assault Ukrainian positions directly these days. Instead, small numbers of soldiers try to bypass them and get as far into the rear as possible to sow chaos. The Russians pay a high price, but they keep coming. Near the town of Hulyaipole, which the Russians have partly taken, a Ukrainian surveillance-drone pilot known by his call sign Kuts was flying his drone back to base to recharge its battery recently. On the drones video feed, he spotted three Russian soldiers only a kilometer away. No one can understand how they got there," he said. He directed attack drones to the spot, which killed the Russians. For Ukrainian infantrymen, Russias midrange drones make moving to and from the front line the most perilous part of their work. During rotations, unfortunately, there are a lot of losses, the most losses," said a 52-year-old rifleman known by his call sign Psycho. His face bore the extreme exhaustion typical of men who have spent too long in front-line dugouts. After a few days rest at his brigades psychological support center, he returned to the front. Kuts, the drone pilot, said he was paying only limited attention to the peace negotiations with Russia, the U.S. and Ukraine. With no deal in sight, it is more useful to watch the icy fields of Zaporizhzhia on his video feed, he said. They say one thing publicly," he said. But on the battlefield, I see intensified assault operations." Write to Anastasiia Malenko at anastasiia.malenko@wsj.com and Marcus Walker at Marcus.Walker@wsj.com Under the interim trade agreement with the US, India has allowed the import of an animal feed item called distillers dried grain with solubles (DDGS), which is made from genetically modified (GM) corn. This has rekindled the debate on the use of transgenics in the farm sector, in addition to concerns that imports may indirectly impact farm gate prices for Indian soy and corn farmers. Mint explains whats at stake. What is DDGS? DDGS is a protein-rich byproduct of ethanol manufacturing using grains like corn and rice. The US mostly uses GM corn for producing ethanol. Therefore, DDGS is a GM-based animal feed used for cattle, poultry, and fisheries. In India, ethanol manufacturers produce DDGS, but this is made using non-GM corn (maize) and rice. As per the trade agreement, India will allow duty-free import of DDGS, but in limited quantities. India has not granted direct market access to US-grown GM soybean and maize. But it has allowed the import of DDGS feed and soybean oil, which India already imports from countries like Brazil and Argentina that grow GM soy. So, what are the objections? The opposition has criticised this move, citing the fact that India has yet to allow the use of transgenic technologies in food crops (it has only allowed GM cotton to date). Congress lawmaker and former environment minister Jairam Ramesh termed it a backdoor entry of GM crops in food. Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, a farmer union affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the ideological parent of the ruling BJP, has also objected to the entry of DDGS. In addition, experts have raised concerns that imported feed can depress farmgate prices for Indian farmers growing soybean and corn, which are mostly used to manufacture animal feed. In addition, ethanol makers may face a dip in profitability as they have to compete with US-origin DDGS. How will this impact Indian dairy produce? Research shows that using GM-based feed does not pass on foreign genes to the milk. The European Union allows import of GM feed for its dairy cattle with a labelling mandate when GM materials are present in feed or food items is excess of 0.9%. Within India, the food safety authority mandates that import of 24 food items (including soy and corn) have to be accompanied with a GM-free certificate. But the list does not include either GM-origin soybean oil or DDGS. Is DDGS a big giveaway? Not really. Corn-based DDGS from Indian ethanol makers is currently cheaper than the landed price of imported DDGS. So, imports are likely to be limited. But US-made DDGS is of better quality (due to lower levels of aflatoxins, a fungus). It remains to be seen whether Indian feed makers will replace home-produced DDGS with imports. Overall, India has done well for its farmers by not allowing imports of high-yield US corn, soy and ethanol for fuel. It has not allowed imports of dairy products and cereals. Further, India has been able to lower duties on shrimps, coffee and rice which are major export items. The interest of apple growers has also been protected with a mix of import duties and a minimum import price. On balance, the deal is unlikely to worsen the trade surplus India enjoys with the US in the agriculture sector ($3.8 billion in 2024). What are the unknowns? The trade negotiations are ongoing and many aspects are not known. For instance, it remains unclear whether India will allow import of soybean oil at zero duty (the effective duty on crude oil import is 16.5% currently). As per the interim agreement, India has promised to eliminate or lower tariffs on additional products. But it is not clear what these products are. Further, India has agreed to address long-standing non-tariff barriers to the trade in U.S. food and agricultural products." Non-tariff barriers can include specific quotas or quantities of a particular commodity to be imported, product and safety standards, as well as the contentious issue of GM products. The final agreement will clarify these things. Indian bank chiefs will be better off with longer tenures at the helm to help them plan better, said Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, founder of Bandhan Bank and its former chief executive officer (CEO). In an interview to Mint, Ghosh, now chairman of the Bandhan Group, said leaders should get more time at the top, allowing them to bring a long-term perspective to the role. Ghosh, who stepped down as managing director (MD) and CEO of Bandhan Bank in July 2024, was referring to the practice of giving bank chiefs terms of three years at a time. In November 2023, the board of Bandhan Bank reappointed him for another three years, but he announced his resignation in April 2024. Even parliament has a five-year term and bank managing directors have three years. So how will one plan?" said Ghosh. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allows bank CEOs to remain in charge for 15 years or till they reach 70 years. For CEOs who are promoters or major shareholders of the bank, the regulator allows 12 years at the top. Ghosh resigned at the end of his term on 9 July 2024 after leading the bank for almost a decade, including three consecutive tenures as MD & CEO. Asked why he stepped down all of a sudden, Ghosh, 65, said there were multiple reasons. He said there were things he could not have pursued as the CEO due to regulatory restrictions. That apart, the bank was in the throes of migrating its core banking systems to Oracle in 2023 and he wanted to stick around for the exercise to conclude smoothly. I spent three nights in the office in October to see how things work and to motivate the team," said Ghosh. He said that one evening in late 2023, he found out that the bank had disbursed 30 crore of micro-loans instead of the daily average of 300 crore. Alarm bells rang and Ghosh and another senior executive went to two branches in Kolkata to speak to the staff there. They told us that they were not able to disburse because of a problem and therefore were turning customers away. This issue was soon resolved and disbursements went up," said Ghosh. Drivers seat Ghosh said he misses being in the drivers seat at the bank he founded and said that promoters drive growth because they build institutions from the ground up. I am not contradicting the regulator or the governments point of view. I feel that promoters have the heart of the organization and are not just looking for profit," he said. Experts said the regulator wants chief executives to have long-term plans and the three-year renewals are just for periodic status checks. The upper limit for a bank CEO is 15 years and not three years. The philosophy behind the three-year term at a time is for the regulator to frequently do a check on the executive and his/her performance," said Abizer Diwanji, founder of strategic advisory provider Neostrat Advisors. Diwanji said it is unlikely for CEOs to work on three-year plans and neither does the RBI expect them to do so. In fact, the RBI would not approve of someone who only has a three-year plan. The Kolkata-based lender did have a few run-ins with the regulator regarding its promoter shareholding but that was eventually resolved. Given that Bandhan Bank won its licence under the RBIs 2013 guidelines, the bank was required to dilute promoter holdings to 40% within three years of starting its business, which was in August 2015, and was therefore required to cut the shareholdings by August 2018. When that didnt happen, the central bank restricted the expansion of Bandhans branch network and capped Ghoshs remuneration in September 2018. In October 2019, the RBI imposed a fine of 1 crore on the bank for failing to meet this norm. Curbs lifted However, citing efforts made by the bank to reduce its promoter shareholding, the RBI lifted the restrictions in February 2020 with certain conditions. Six months later, the RBI also withdrew the curbs imposed on Ghoshs remuneration. Ahead of its initial public offering in March 2018, the promoters of Bandhan Bank owned 89.62% of the equity share capital. Ghosh told Mint that diluting stakes to 40% is not an easy exercise. Bandhan Bank was finally able to comply in August 2020 when it sold shares in the secondary market, reducing the promoters holding to 40% from about 61%. The next round of dilution needs to happen by August 2030, when the promoter holding should fall to 26%. Asked how this would be done, Ghosh said that a plan has not yet been prepared. Indian banks have attracted considerable interest from foreign strategic investors, with recent deals such as Yes Bank-SMBC and RBL Bank-Emirates NBD Bank lighting up the sector with capital. As per RBI data, about $15 billion of committed or actual investments came into private financial entities in 2025 alone. Wider access Ghosh said that as the head of the group, his vision is to improve financial accessibility for a large number of people. He wants to stay true to his DNA, having founded Bandhan first as an NGO in 2001 and then a microlender in 2006, before converting to a bank. I'm not looking (for Bandhan) to compete with those serving corporates. That is not my objective," said Ghosh. Now, as the chair of Bandhan Financial Services Ltd the investment management vehicle of the group Ghosh divides his time between the new role, social work and in promoting entrepreneurship in West Bengal. Ghosh is the president of the Bengal Business Council, a group that wants to imbibe the sense of entrepreneurship in the Bengali community." The entrepreneurship mindset of Bengal must change. Till now you will see businesses in their second or third generation unable to scale and innovate," said Ghosh. The Centre has stepped in to resolve the green power quagmire of surplus production and insufficient transmission, following sweeping production cuts at solar and wind farms. The curtailment offers a temporary fix and keeps the grid stable, but results in steep losses for the developers, and threatens to derail India's ambitious green energy trajectory. The new and renewable energy ministry has tasked the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Grid Controller of India Ltd (Grid India) to jointly explore a resolution to this vexed issue, two people aware of the development said. The CEA is India's apex power sector planning body, while Grid India is the national power grid operator. Both agencies would conduct a joint study to this effect following the ministry's direction. The Centre's move comes after vast production cuts ordered in Rajasthan and Gujarat, two of India's green power engines. The curtailment, equivalent to 18% of the average monthly solar generation of 13 terawatt hours, resulted in a compensation payout of 575-690 crore to the developers, according to Ember, an energy transition think tank based in the UK. Developers often make losses despite receiving compensation from a reserve fund, as it doesn't make up for all the losses incurred. Also Read | A new accounting rule that could boost Indias green energy push "At a recent meeting of all stakeholders, the ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) asked the CEA to look at the issue and conduct a study on ways to reduce oscillations in the power system, which would help bring in more stability to the transmission system. The CEA and Grid India will together carry out the study. The ministry is also constantly monitoring the issue," said one of the two people cited above, requesting anonymity. Oscillations Oscillations refer to variations in voltage, current, power and frequency in the power system. While these variations are small during normal operations, they can amplify at times of excess production or weak evacuation, leading to instability, equipment damage or blackouts. The grid controller steps in at such times to order production cuts. The root cause is that while India has raced to put up solar and wind power projects, the transmission capacity to evacuate that power is still being built, and battery storage mechanisms are not fully in place either. To top it all, many customers - primarily power distributors in states - are signing up for expensive thermal power, given they are more reliable. India currently has a renewable energy capacity of 258 giga watt (GW), of which solar accounts for 135.80GW, and wind for 54.51GW. The installed transmission capacity is over 5 lakh circuit kilometers (ckm). In the April-December period of FY27, 5,077 ckm of transmission lines were added, 14.8% less than 5,960 ckm in the same period of the last fiscal. However, the power ministry said on 22 January that inter-state transmission projects being built will add approximately 40,000 ckm of transmission lines and another 27,500 ckm being implemented under intra-state transmission projects will enhance grid reliability and power evacuation capability. Queries mailed to the energy ministry, CEA and Grid India remained unanswered. Capacity outpacing absorption Neerav Nanavati, chief executive officer (CEO) of BluPine Energy, an Actis-backed renewable energy generator with an over 3GW portfolio, said that curtailment is a clear indicator that renewable capacity growth is outpacing the systems ability to absorb power efficiently. When clean energy is backed down during predictable high-generation periods, it points to a shortfall in system flexibility rather than a lack of generation. For developers, this has direct implications for project economics and risk allocation, particularly for solar-heavy portfolios and projects with greater market exposure. It reinforces the need to factor system flexibility and grid behaviour more explicitly into investment decisions," said Nanavati. With targeted annual auctions of 50GW of renewable power, capacity addition has sped up. "The next phase of renewable scale-up will depend on how quickly flexibility is embedded into the power system through storage, more responsive grid operations, and market frameworks that value balancing. Converting capacity additions into reliable supply and sustainable returns will require flexibility to scale in step with renewable growth," Nanavati said. Also Read | Discoms selling green power at lower than cost price on exchanges According to the National Solar Energy Federation of India, a lobby group, the green power curtailment in Rajasthan was about 3GW and up to 100% during 11 am to 2 pm, a time when solar power peaks. Mid-day gush According to the UK's Ember, authorities are forced to order the solar cut because other sources (such as thermal power) could not be turned off far enough to accommodate the gush of midday solar power. "These conditions occurred, for example, when demand was lower than forecast, a common occurrence in 2025 due to exceptionally mild temperatures. Demand fell in October 2025, with the midday fall twice that in the evening. In these cases, even after ramping down the coal fleet to its minimum technical limits, the system operator had to curtail solar generation to ensure the grid remained stable," an Ember report said. Akshay Hiranandani, CEO of KKR-backed Serentica Renewables, noted that market-based dispatch and storage integration would significantly reduce curtailment risk and lower system costs in the long run. Unless addressed through better transmission planning, storage integration, strict compensation mechanisms, and discom reforms, curtailment will continue to slow down investment and raise renewable tariffs," he added. Serentica has a cumulative portfolio of over 9GW green power, including solar and wind. Market-based dispatch is the centralized, day-ahead, auction-based mechanism largely transacted through exchanges. Meanwhile, discoms are selling renewable energy on electricity exchanges at a price lower than what they had purchased it for. Also, several states including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam and West Bengal have signed costly power purchase agreements (PPA) for expensive thermal power rather than cheaper green power; and 43GW green power capacity involving an 2.1 trillion proposed investment doesn't have PPAs and power supply agreements (PSAs) in place. New lines This comes in the backdrop of recent commissioning of key transmission lines in the northern and north-western region that have the maximum potential and installed capacity of solar power generation. State-run Power Grid Corp. of India Ltd last month commissioned the 765 kV double-circuit Bhadla IISikar II (second circuit) transmission line. Also, the 765 kV double-circuit KhetriNarela transmission line connecting Delhi and the National Capital Region with Rajasthan was commissioned in December. Varchasvi Gagal, managing director and chief executive officer of Datta Power Infra Pvt. Ltd, a company which is both in transmission infrastructure construction and solar power generation said, Curtailment of renewable energy (solar and wind) has emerged as a significant pain point for power developers. When RE generation is curtailed, power is available but cannot be evacuated or sold, leading to direct revenue loss. Curtailment also reduces the capacity utilization factor (CUF), which in turn reduces project IRRs (internal rate of return), which have a severe impact in Indias highly tariff-competitive RE market. Curtailment risk has shifted from the grid and distribution companies (discoms) to developers, increasing the risk profile of RE projects despite their must-run status." He added that it is critical to strictly enforce must-run status, ensure compensation for deemed generation, align transmission commissioning with renewable energy capacity addition, and strengthen power purchase agreement (PPA) protection mechanisms. In a move aimed at deepening the financing pool for Indias real estate sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed allowing banks to lend to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). The step is expected to help REITs raise long-term capital at a more efficient cost, supporting their growth and potentially boosting income for unitholders. On 6 February, the RBI said it plans to permit commercial banks to extend finance to REITs, subject to prudential safeguards. In its Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies, the central bank noted that the proposal follows a review of the sector and takes into account the strong regulatory and governance framework in place for listed REITs. Also Read | RBI opens bank lending for real estate trusts, draft norms to be issued soon What are REITs? REITs are investment vehicles that own or operate income-generating real estate, enabling investors to earn a share of the income produced without directly purchasing properties. At present, there are five listed REITs in India- Brookfield India Real Estate Trust, Embassy Office Parks REIT, Mindspace Business Parks REIT, Nexus Select Trust, and Knowledge Realty Trust. Nexus Select Trust has a portfolio of rent-yielding retail real estate properties, while the other four REITs hold office assets. This is what experts have to say Amit Shetty, CEO, Embassy REIT, said that the policy step is expected to enhance access to long-term, stable financing for REITs, complementing traditional capital market funding and broadening the financing ecosystem for income-producing real estate. It further validates the thesis that REITs are long-term capital structures of the highest credit quality, deserving of robust financing from banks. This policy will help expand access to longer-term, competitive bank finance, which will support healthier balance sheets and stable growth by reducing the need for frequent refinancing. Anuj Puri, Chairman, ANAROCK Group, said, The move is expected to make it easier for REITs to raise capital, lower expenses, and speed up asset expansion in the office and retail segments. This is likely to make these segments more appealing to investors and is positive for the broader real estate financing spectrum. Having said that, it needs to be accompanied by strong regulatory safeguards on exposure limits, and robust credit underwriting and monitoring practices. Shrinivas Rao, FRICS, CEO of Vestian, said that the RBIs proposal is expected to eliminate the need to route funding through SPVs. This reform is expected to significantly improve liquidity in the commercial real estate sector while reducing overall capital costs. Easier access to funding will accelerate construction and investment activity nationwide, creating a virtuous growth cycle for the sector. In the near term, office and retail assets are likely to see heightened traction, driven by increased participation from retail investors and renewed confidence in the REIT market. Shishir Baijal, International Partner, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said, Indian REITs, with approximately $27 bn of AUM across office and retail segments, have historically relied on capital market issuances and sponsor-backed financing, and access to bank credit will serve as an additional funding avenue that diversifies the liability stack and enhances refinancing flexibility. The move reinforces regulatory confidence in listed real estate vehicles and should strengthen liquidity and depth in Indias real estate investment market. Commenting on the proposal, the Indian REITs Association (IRA) hailed the RBI's decision to allow banks to lend directly to REITs, saying this landmark move strengthens the financial framework for REITs and supports their long-term growth. Also Read | Why REITs are gaining popularity among Indian investors MORAINE, OhioPresident Trump spent much of last year courting foreign investment in U.S. factories, promising to replace jobs lost to the global economy. The rise of a Chinese automotive glass plant in the Ohio heartland shows the risks when Americas biggest rival sets up shop. Ohios governor, along with state and federal lawmakers, welcomed Fuyao when the Chinese glassmaking giant took over a closed General Motors factory a decade ago. The project, supported by Ohio taxpayers, was hailed as a step to reviving a battered Rust Belt region. Now, many feel duped. Competition from the Fuyao Glass America plant is threatening about 250 jobs at a rival glass factory operating since the 1950s. Vitro, the company that owns the longtime plant in Crestline, Ohio, has spent the past year considering whether to shut down, said Carlos Bernal, Vitros head of automotive glass. After announcing plans to close the Vitro plant at the end of 2026, the company told employees last month it would continue operating. Yet the plants long-term future is uncertain. Since 2019, Vitro has shut three auto-glass plants in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Indianadecisions the company attributes in large part to Chinese competition. The entry of Chinese firms into the U.S. auto industry not only threatens the safety and security of domestic supply chains," Bernal said, the companies jeopardize entire communities that rely on American manufacturing jobs." Rivals say they cant match Fuyaos lower prices and allege the company employs unfair business and labor practices. The Chinese company supplies GM, Ford, Stellantis and other automakers in the U.S. Vitros concerns reached Washington after federal authorities conducted a raid on the Fuyao plant in 2024. The U.S. alleges that Chinese business owners formed a web of dozens of commercial enterprises in Ohio to facilitate the harboring, transportation, and employment of illegal aliens at various factories," including Fuyao, which allegedly funneled $126 million to companies in the scheme, according to a civil forfeiture complaint filed by federal authorities last year in U.S. District Court. No one has been criminally charged in the case. Fuyao denies any wrongdoing and attributes its success to the same production prowess and economies of scale that have made China the worlds leading manufacturer. The company said its Moraine plant employs more than 3,000 workersmost of them from the areaand is expanding. In any industry, long-term success cannot be achieved by price alone," said Fuyao spokeswoman Stella Zhang. Our prices are reasonable, and customers choose Fuyao based on a comprehensive evaluation of technological expertise, product quality, delivery reliability, and service excellence." Zhang said all employees at Fuyao were authorized to work in the U.S. and that the investigation targeted its suppliers, not Fuyao. Vitro and its Washington allies say Fuyaos success reflects a way Beijing might try to hollow out American manufacturing capacity and undermine critical industries. View Full Image The Fuyao glass factory. They argue that Chinese companies can evade tariffs by moving production to the U.S., using low prices to undercut manufacturers in America, a practice known as internal dumping. These companies trounce competitors with a combination of production efficiencies and, allegedly, illegal labor practices as well as subsidies from Beijing, according to China hawks in Washington. Its a really dirty game," said Elaine Dezenski, head of the Center on Economic and Financial Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a think tank critical of China. Fuyaos success has set off national-security concerns in Congress and some federal agenciesmainly that China could disrupt the American automotive sector and other crucial industries if it gained significant market share at the expense of factories now operating in the U.S. The Chinese government is systematically weakening our economy from within our own borders," said Nazak Nikaktar, a former Commerce Department official in Trumps first term who oversaw efforts to confront China. The Chinese embassy in Washington rejected the claim. While Chinese investment in the U.S. has fallen in recent years, similar complaints are erupting in other industries. U.S.-based copper companies have told the White House and Commerce Department they fear being undercut by Chinese firms building and operating new processing facilities stateside, said people familiar with the matter. The concerns sparked discussion in the Trump administration about how to regulate Chinese firms located in the U.S. The Trump administration is committed to securing more investment into American manufacturing, without compromising on our national and economic security or our immigration and antitrust laws," White House spokesman Kush Desai said. Leaders at the Vitro factory say they have done everything possible to wring efficiencies out of their decades-old plant, such as installing new equipment and reducing the number of employees. But they still cant match Fuyaos prices. Weve seen our volume drop by 50% in the last seven years," said Rich Parron, plant manager at the Vitro factory in Crestline. Fuyao declined to provide pricing for its products. A person familiar with recent deals with automakers said Fuyao prices generally run about 10% less than what competitors charge. Paychecks in peril Chandra Jarvis has worked 13 years at the Vitro plant in Crestline, a distressed rural town of some 4,500 residents, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the Fuyao factory. Union wages helped the 48-year-old single mother support her daughter through nursing school and her son through high school. She said working at the plant, where she is known as Momma," provides her and co-workers both financial security and a sense of community. Many now are afraid. There are families with young kids that they need to provide for," Jarvis saidworkers who depend on jobs that would be ripped away" should the plant close. Roy Dent, a glass-furnace operator, still remembers the plants heyday in the 1970s. Then-owner Pittsburgh Plate Glass had around 1,000 employees who worked around the clock to supply auto plants in Detroit and beyond. There were times since Ive been here that Ive seen helicopters land in a parking lot just to take product out," Dent said. Trumps tariff agenda is meant to restore those glory days, and many Vitro workers say they support the presidents focus on rebuilding U.S. manufacturing. They also are indignant about the government unfurling a welcome mat for Fuyao. Wouldnt you have a little bit of resentment if your job is being threatened?" said Kim Sumner, a 25-year employee at the Crestline plant. View Full Image Kim Sumner, right, a furnace operator working a shift at the Vitro glass plant. Even supporters of Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who grew up in Ohio, expressed frustration and confusion about why they havent been pitched a lifeline. They say they want to make America great againwheres our help?" Jarvis asked at a roundtable with a dozen Crestline employees, prompting nods of approval. Some administration officials are, in fact, discussing ways to limit Chinese investment in the U.S. on national-security grounds, according to people familiar with the matter. Among the strategies under discussion is closer evaluation of foreign investments in such protected industries as automotive, copper, steel, aluminum and critical minerals, the people said. Yet the president could derail any new restrictions should the U.S. strike an investment deal with Beijing, they said. Trump is expected to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in April. Trump has said that despite trade tensions with Beijing, he welcomes new investment in the U.S. by Chinese companies, even in the automotive sector which he has used tariffs to protect. If they want to come in and build a plant and hire you and hire your friends and your neighbors, thats great, I love that," Trump said during remarks at a Jan. 13 meeting of the Detroit Economic Club. Let China come in." Days later, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney struck a deal with Beijing to slash a 100% tariff to 6.1% on as many as 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles. Trump responded to the announcement saying, If you can get a deal with China, you should do that," before pivoting days later to threaten Ottawa with 100% tariffs if it came to a larger agreement with Beijing. View Full Image Chris Kershner, president and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. Chris Kershner, president and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, is among those who support more foreign investment from qualified nations. He is dismissive of Vitros complaints about Fuyao. It sounds like a competitors just peeved that theyre losing market share," Kershner said, and maybe theyre grasping at straws." Foreign hands In July 2024, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service and Border Patrol, as well as state and local police, entered the Fuyao plant and more than a dozen affiliated businesses. The U.S. alleges that Fuyao and its affiliate companies created a pipeline to import workers for the auto-glass industry and provided them housing in family-style hotels and transportation to and from the Fuyao facility and other factories. The affiliates were formed, according to the complaint, to conceal the multi-million-dollar income generated as a result of the business owners conspiring to harbor, transport, and employ a workforce made in part of illegal aliens." Some of the employees told law-enforcement agents they were trafficked across the U.S.-Mexico border, the complaint said. Nearly all of Fuyaos employees had documentation showing they were legally permitted to work in the U.S., according to the complaint. The company received 33 H-1B visas in the federal fiscal year 2025 for its Ohio facilities, government records show, about 1% of its local workforce. Many employees from Fuyao suppliers named in the investigation didnt show up for work on the day of the raid, the federal complaint alleged, and none of the absentees had legal permission to work in the U.S. Zhang, the Fuyao spokeswoman, said all employees at Fuyao were authorized to work in the U.S., and the company has since beefed up the vetting process for new hires among its suppliers. Fuyao declined requests for a tour of its Ohio factory or employee interviews. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington said he wasnt familiar with the Fuyao case but that Chinese companies have made significant contributions to promoting domestic employment and economic development in the U.S." View Full Image The Fuyao glass plant in Moraine, Ohio. Vitrowhich is based in Monterrey, Mexicoemploys 13 Mexican nationals as engineers at its Crestline plant. The company said all of them have legal permission to work in the U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno (R., Ohio) wants to see the Fuyao plant under new ownership. Sen. John Husted (R., Ohio), who attended a 2020 celebration marking an expansion of the Fuyao factory while he was state lieutenant governor, said he was concerned about the trafficking allegations. Rep. Hal Rogers (R., Ky.), chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, inserted language in a government funding billwhich Trump signed in Januarydirecting the Justice Department to detail its efforts to combat alleged human trafficking in the auto-glass industry involving any company with ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Rogerss district in Kentucky is home to another Vitro plant. Bryce Burchett, the UAW union chair at the Vitro factory in Crestline, echoed complaints from co-workers about Fuyaos alleged subsidies and illegal workers. If we had everything they had, then we would be able to match them on price," said the 31-year-old father of three. But right now, we cant." Write to Gavin Bade at gavin.bade@wsj.com New Delhi: Life is a storm, my young friend. You will bask in the sunlight one moment, be shattered on the rocks the next. What makes you a man is what you do when that storm comes." Alexandre Dumas, The Count of Monte Cristo Sunny days, fresh winds and quiet signs of life mark the onset of spring. Dalal Street was witnessing such a weather last week, until a storm barrelling across the global IT sector darkened the horizons again. However, those who have weathered many such storms attest that the weather, like the market, has the tendency to return to normalcy. Storms, no matter how severe, should not be mistaken for the climate itself. A growth-oriented, fiscally prudent budget and the announcement of the long-awaited IndiaUS trade deal have significantly improved the macro backdrop for Indian markets, according to a host of market experts Mint spoke with. These strengthen the case for a medium-term recovery in investor confidence, particularly after a period marked by global risk aversion, foreign outflows and uneven earnings delivery. That said, experts also add that the path ahead is unlikely to be linear and investors have to adopt a selective approach rather than a blanket risk-on stance, starting with a clear assessment of which segments stand to gain the most from the improving fundamentals. Sector spotting The union budget for 202627 has hit the right notes on public investment-led growth while resisting the urge to sacrifice fiscal consolidation at the altar of populist policymaking. The fiscal deficit target for FY27 has been pegged at 4.3% of gross domestic product (GDP), slightly lower than last years 4.4%, even as it leans on capital expenditure to support growth. Capital spending allocation for FY27 has been raised to 12.22 trillion, or about 3.1% of GDP, with a clear tilt towards transport infrastructure, defence and energy. Higher public capex is expected to underpin economic momentum and crowd in private investment, a key consideration for equity markets as corporate earnings come under closer scrutiny. In terms of sectors, infrastructure spending continues to dominate. Allocation for roads and highways has been increased to 3.10 trillion, an 8% rise over last years revised estimates, with a renewed push towards rural road development. Railways has received around 2.9 trillion, up 10% year-on-year, alongside the announcement of seven new rail corridors aimed at easing congestion and improving network efficiency. Defence capital outlay has been raised to 2.19 trillion from 1.86 trillion, supporting modernisation and strengthening domestic defence manufacturing. The budget has also allocated 1.85 trillion in interest-free long-term loans to states for capital expenditure in 2026-27, supporting decentralised infrastructure execution. Beyond core infrastructure, the budget sharpens its focus on strategic and new-age sectors, a point noted by many analysts. View Full Image Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The budget speech almost begins with the word semiconductors, which signals a major pivot in the governments view of what India should pursue. A likely boost to capex, services sector growth and AI, along with slightly slower than expected fiscal consolidation, will likely support FY27 earnings, further helped by increased demand for equities through buybacks," analysts at Morgan Stanley stated in a note. The government has outlined Semiconductor Mission 2.0 with an allocation of 1,000 crore, while significantly expanding incentives for electronics component manufacturing to 40,000 crore from 22,900 crore earlier. The India AI Mission has been allocated 1,000 crore, supporting compute and data infrastructure. One aspect that drew an unequivocally negative reaction from the market was the budgets increase in the securities transaction tax (STT) on futures to 0.05% from 0.02% and on options transactions to 0.15% from 0.1%. While this led to a howl of protests from many participants, experts say investors should take a reasoned view. STT increase for equity derivatives is targeted to curb retail investor speculation," Yogesh Kalwani, head, investments, InCred Wealth, said. Sebi had done a study on retail investor activity in Equity F&O and results showed that 91% of retail traders incurred losses. STT increase is a signal that the government and the regulator are not comfortable with high retail participation in derivatives where most people lose money," he added. Capital gains were aligned across different asset classes (listed, private equity, mutual funds, real estate etc.) in FY25 budget and we do not expect any changes in the next few years," he further said. The biggest sentiment booster for Dalal Street has been the announcement of the India-US trade deal, which removes a major source of uncertainty that had been weighing on Indian markets for much of the past year. Prolonged ambiguity around bilateral trade and periodic barbs from the Trump administration had contributed to weak investor sentiment and persistent foreign outflows, making the agreement a meaningful inflection point from a market perspective. At the core of the deal is a sharp reduction in trade frictions. The US has removed the 25% punitive duty linked to Indias oil trade with Russia with immediate effect, while the reciprocal tariff is set to be lowered from 25% to 18% in the next few days. Sector-specific tariffs imposed under Section 232 will continue for steel, aluminium and copper at 50%. In auto components, the existing 25% tariff will be eliminated on half the import volume, while the remaining half will continue to attract the same duty. In turn, the US will gain zero-duty access for several products, including Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The agreement remains open-ended, with discussions set to continue and more products likely to be added or removed by mutual consent as talks evolve. India has also committed to buying $500 billion worth of US goods over five years, including oil, gas, coking coal, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, and technology products. Indias imports from the US stood at $45 billion in FY25. The agreement also crowns a broader push by India to deepen trade ties across regions. It follows close on the heels of the IndiaEU free trade agreement and adds to recent deals with the UK, EFTA countries, Oman and New Zealand. The overall setup is clearly more comfortable than it was a few quarters ago," Akshat Garg, head, research & product, Choice Wealth said. The budget chose discipline over populism, which reinforces confidence in Indias medium-term growth story. Trade deals with the US and EU remove a major source of uncertainty that had been hanging over markets, and the RBIs growth-supportive stance means monetary policy is no longer a constraint," Garg added. That said, all this doesnt automatically guarantee a strong, broad-based bull run. Markets can move on policy comfort for a while, but sustainable rallies ultimately need earnings to deliver. Valuations in parts of the market are already pricing in a lot of good news. If corporate earnings dont start catching up, the risk is that rallies become narrow and sentiment-driven rather than durable," Garg said. So while the foundation looks strong, the next phase depends more on execution and earnings visibility than on announcements. Deal is done The US trade deal significantly reduces the effective tariff burden on Indian exports, restoring their competitiveness in the American market. In relative terms, India now faces lower tariffs than most large emerging market exporters, improving its standing across several export categories where pricing and margins had come under pressure. Combined with the deal with the EU and other regions, the immediate beneficiaries are sectors with direct exposure to these markets. We believe autos, chemicals, jewellery, wine, textile, electronics, EMS, pharma can be some sectors to look out for given their higher exports to regions like the US and EU," said Ashwin Patil, head of fundamental research at LKP Securities. He also said the fine print has to be studied regarding agri imports, which can lead to a huge disruption in India. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said India has ensured carefully crafted exemption lines for products such as dairy items, soyameal, lentils, cereals and millets, among others, while certain quotas have been allocated for the import of items such as tree nuts and apples. Otherwise, the earnings so far have been fairly good, which can act as a next leg of trigger for the bull run, given all other macros are in place," Patil added. From a broader market standpoint, the US trade deal is expected to trigger a positive cycle with respect to foreign fund inflows. With a key overhang removed, risk appetite towards Indian equities is likely to improve. Indian markets have seen equity outflows of about $34 billion since October 2024, the largest among emerging markets, reflecting both global risk aversion and trade-related uncertainty. With the US accounting for roughly 41% of FPI assets under custody and Indias valuation premium over other emerging and developed markets now closer to long-term averages, the conditions for renewed inflows appear more supportive. A turnaround in FPI flows would likely favour two sets of sectors. First are areas with relatively high foreign ownership, such as real estate, telecom, transportation, financial services and healthcare, which tend to respond quickly to shifts in overseas investor sentiment. Second are sectors where foreign positioning has been the most underweight over recent years, including capital goods, financial services, IT services and power utilities. The Indian rupee posted its biggest single-day rise in seven years on 3 February after the deals announcement. The currency strengthened 1.36% to about 90.27 per dollar as traders rushed to unwind bearish positions. FIIs are likely to come back at some point of time this year. Rupee appreciation will help. Weakening of the AI trade which dominated global markets can accelerate the process. Another important trigger for the FII comeback would be clear signs of earnings recovery in FY27," V.K. Vijayakumar, chief investment strategist at Geojit Investments, said. He also said that since sectors oriented towards exports to the USlike textiles, gems and jewellery, auto components, and marine processinghave already appreciated significantly, domestic consumption themes might do better now. Meanwhile, some participants are of the opinion that FIIs return can take longer than expected. Foreign investors tend to move based on relative returns, earnings momentum and currency stability. A gradual and selective comeback looks more likely, especially into sectors where earnings visibility improves and valuations remain reasonable. In that sense, the trade deal is a necessary condition for better flows, but sustained inflows will depend on how quickly corporate earnings start to reflect the improving macro environment," Choice Wealths Garg said. Medium term The euphoria over the US trade deal barely lasted a day, as Indian IT stocks saw a sharp selloff on 4 February, mirroring an overnight slump in global technology shares as fresh concerns emerged around AI disrupting traditional software and services models. An updated AI chatbot from Anthropic has heightened fears that automation could eat into low- and mid-level services work, while comments from US-based data and analytics firm Palantirs earnings call added to the unease. Palantir highlighted how its AI platform is displacing seat-based enterprise software and third-party tools, with some clients eliminating external software altogether. More importantly for Indian IT services, the company pointed to AI-driven automation in complex ERP and SAP migration projects, compressing timelines from years to weeksbringing implementation work, previously seen as relatively insulatedinto the AI disruption narrative. While this is incrementally negative for the Indian IT sector, analysts at Motilal Oswal noted that there has been an acceleration in AI partnerships in the industry. In the next 3-6 months, we will continue to monitor AI-native partnerships, which will be a key driver in the next 12-14 months. We expect that this should lead to a pick-up in AI services deals in mid-2026 in the form of short-cycle deals," they added. That said, most market experts are of the view that the broader macro framework for Indian equities remains intact and investors should not be swayed by short-term bouts of volatility. Apart from the trade deals, the benign earnings base and a gradual recovery in economic trends points to a reasonable chance for earnings recovery," George Thomas, fund manager, equity, Quantum AMC, said. The tax cuts in recent years would also provide an impetus to consumption in the medium term. Given the correction in broader markets, valuations have become conducive and there are good opportunities for bottom-up stock picking," he added. After the announcement of the India-US trade deal on 2 February, foreign flows are set to reverse, as other global markets have already performed well and become expensive too, said Viraj Gandhi, chief executive officer at Samco Mutual Fund. A 20% rise in gold prices in a month is a statistical rarity, which happened in 1971, after which prices fell. Now gold and silver have become such large economies in themselves that they might not move this fast, Gandhi said. Edited excerpts: With the US-India trade deal, there were expectations that uncertainty would go away from the market. So, can we expect foreign flows to reverse? Foreign flows are most likely to reverse now. This may be considered the time to buy the India story. Foreign investors will be looking to buy India, as the US, South Korea, and China have become more expensive relative to it. And these markets are already at the peak, so how much more growth from here on will it lead to? Ideally, the money should be returned to the books, as India is now potentially attractive. India is a structurally strong story, but the rally we had from covid till October 2024 made India comparatively expensive. India had a premium compared to other markets, which is why FIIs (Foreign Institutional Investors) needed to sell India and buy something else. But FII flows usually will be a gradual reversal. Domestic investors are doing well. And once FPI (foreign portfolio investment) flows resume, the market will resume its upward move. Gold and silver recently saw some correction. What kind of movement are you expecting in these asset classes? Over the next two years, we believe the equity market may make money, while gold and silver may not make much. That doesn't mean it can't rally. But assuming gold and silver rise by 20%, the equity market may rise by more than 20%. Now gold and silver will come into a range. Investors should consider consulting a financial advisor before investing due to market volatility. The last time gold moved by 20% in a single month was in 1971. It is actually a six sigma event. And then we saw a similar kind of fall. Gold and silver have become such large economies in their own right that they might not move this fast. Silver, in particular, if it is being used in industries, if the raw material price goes up five or seven times in a year, will the manufacturers produce the same quantity that they are producing today? They may find an alternative to silver. We may say that silver simply wont be used at that scale anymore. Forward earnings growth for India is lower than the rest of the emerging markets, even over a 2-year forward basis. Even if earnings growth comes back, would that be enough? The earnings per share (EPS) of Indian companies are likely to pick up pace, with growth rates assumed to be in the higher double digits. On a relative valuation and growth basis, Indian markets are becoming more attractive for long-term investment, and earnings growth is likely to pick up in the coming period. On budget day, the markets fell 2%, but on Tuesday, they were up almost 5% due to the trade deal announcement. How do you capture such volatile moves? In line with the investment strategy, we started hedging on budget day, as markets began to fall, with the aim of protecting downside. But two days after the budget, we have cut all our hedges. To put it simply, on 29 January, two days before the budget, we were 100% in equity. Then markets started showing some volatility, so we hedged 20% of our portfoliobuying a stock and selling its future. On budget day, the hedge was more due to the downward direction. Then, on the day of the trade deal, when markets started bouncing, we moved to a higher equity allocation. All your funds use the momentum factor. What does your strategy look like? Momentum needs a direction: either the markets move upwards or downwards. It underperforms in a sideways or flat market. Over the last 12 months, the market has traded within a range and been volatile. After the India-US trade deal, the clouds of uncertainty have mostly lifted, and we could see FII flows returning to India. Now, when the money chases the stock, momentum usually starts having a direction. Markets have remained range-bound for more than a year now. How did momentum perform? We also didn't perform well. In the bull market from July 2023 to October 2024, the Nifty rose by 27%, while our active momentum fund rose by 64%. From November 2024 to March 2025, Nifty corrected by 17-18%, and our fund fell by 10%. We fell lower because we seek to protect our downside by hedging. From April 2025 to January 2026, when markets were sideways, momentum underperformed because it was unable to find direction amid high hedging costs. Also Read | When will the stock market stop falling? Your fund, Active Momentum Fund, has also underperformed in the same period. The reason for our underperformance, as explained earlier, was due to hedging. If you look at a 20-year history across factors like value, growth, low volatility, and momentum, there isnt a single factor that has outperformed across all time frames. Between 2010 and 2020, value underperformed, and growth underperformed between 2020 and 2025. Every investment style has its phases of performance and underperformance. After a brief lull in the primary market, several IPOs are poised to hit Dalal Street over the next few months. Today (February 9), Fractal Analytics IPO and Aye Finance IPO have opened for bidding, though the interest in both offers appears to be low. Analysts maintain a structurally negative outlook on the IPO market for 2026. They believe the market has lost tolerance for indiscipline; obvious PE dumping and aggressively exit-driven IPOs are no longer viable. Significant losses have been incurred over the previous cycle by both retail and institutional investors, leading to a shift in behaviour. "SME IPOs, in particular, will struggle badly this yearmany simply wont survive sustained scrutiny. On the main board, issuers will face far tougher questions on business quality, cash flows, and valuation discipline. Pricing will be far more grounded than what we saw in recent years. 2026 is a year of consolidation, not celebration. Well-run companies with credible growth and sensible pricing will still get capital. Everything else risks falling off a cliff," said Mohit Gulati, CIO and managing partner of ITI Growth Opportunities Fund. IPO GMPs Let's take a look at the grey market premium (GMP) trends for the ongoing IPOs: Aye Finance IPO GMP today was 0, which meant shares were trading at their issue price of 129 with no premium or discount in the grey market, according to investorgain.com. Following the grey market activities over the past week, Aye Finance IPO GMP is trending downward and is anticipated to decrease further. The minimum GMP is 0.00, and the maximum is 5. The 1,010-crore offering consists of a new equity issuance amounting to 710 crore and a 300 crore share sale by existing investors like Alpha Wave India, MAJ Invest Financial Inclusion Fund, CapitalG (affiliated with Alphabet), LGT Capital, and Vikram Jetley. Aye Finance IPO price band has been set between 122 and 129 per equity share, with a face value of 2. Fractal Analytics IPO GMP is 18. Considering the upper end of the IPO price band and the current premium in the grey market, the estimated listing price of Fractal Analytics shares is indicated as 918 apiece, which is 2% higher than the IPO price of 900. Based on the grey market trends from the past seven sessions, the current GMP of 18 is indicating a downward trend. The minimum GMP recorded is 13.00, whereas the maximum GMP observed is 180. The issue, valued at 2,834 crore, consists of a fresh issue of shares amounting to 1,023.5 crore, alongside an Offer-For-Sale (OFS) component worth 1,810.4 crore. Fractal Analytics IPO opened for subscription on Monday, February 9, and closes on Wednesday, February 11. Fractal Analytics IPO price band has been fixed in the range of 857 to 900 per equity share of face value of Re 1. IPO Review As per Swastika Investmart, Aye Finance Limited is a non-banking financial institution (NBFC) that offers business loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The fundamentals look strong to the brokerage, with the company demonstrating consistent growth in both revenue and profits. The company suggests a P/E ratio of approximately 14x based on FY25 earnings, which is reasonably valued in comparison to some of its listed NBFC competitors. In summary, the IPO is a good fit for long-term investors who have confidence in the growth of MSME lending and possess a moderate risk tolerance for NBFC credit, the brokerage opined. SBICAP Securities noted that Fractal Analytics functions within a specialised area of Data Analytics, utilising AI that is developed through both internal research and development as well as external models. The company maintains a strong presence in its four key industries, serving leading multinational corporations, with an average client relationship duration of over 8 years among its top ten clients. At the upper price band of 900, the issue is assessed at a FY25 P/E ratio of 78.9x based on the post-issue capitalisation, the brokerage said. Bharti Airtel Ltd s consolidated Ebitda for the December quarter (Q3FY26) grew by 4.1% sequentially to 30,783 crore. India's mobile services Ebitda crawled up by 2.2% quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q), but the metric for the Africa mobile business rose at a faster rate of 6.8% in constant currency. Africas user base growth was higher at 3.2% versus Indias 1.2%. Data customer base rose 4.7% in Africa and can accelerate further as this customer base forms 45.6% of the total (79.8% in India). As the share of data customer bases grows, the Africa Arpu (average revenue per user) can get a further boost, given higher data Arpu at $2.70 versus $1.10 for voice. Even in terms of data usage per customer, Africa is at just one-third of India's 30 GB per month, indicating potential to move up. Still, currency devaluation poses a significant risk to to the African telecom business of Bharti. India's mobile Arpu growth was soft at just 1.1% q-o-q to 259. The management shared that its difficult to implement differential pricing for 5G over 4G, as it could create confusion in the market, with customers not knowing the distinction between 5G and 4G data usage. There are traditional Arpu drivers, such as premiumization including migration from prepaid to postpaid that enables international roaming, but this did not have a meaningful impact last quarter. New Arpu drivers could be tied to artificial intelligence (AI) providers. Bharti is providing Perplexity AI, just as Jio is providing Google's Gemini. In such arrangements, Bharti and Jio have scope to earn revenue share from AI providers as and when users are willing to pay for AI. However, it could be a long haul before mobile users in India embrace paid AI plans at a significant scale, lifting Arpu. Key Takeaways Bhartis net-debt-to-Ebitda of 1.2x is conservative, sparking calls for more aggressive capital deployment. With higher data customer growth and vast Arpu upside potential, Africa is currently outperforming India in volume and Ebitda growth. Management is avoiding premium 5G pricing to prevent consumer confusion, leading to a stagnation in domestic Arpu. While partnerships with Perplexity AI offer a new revenue-share model, it is viewed as a long-term play rather than a near-term Arpu catalyst. The upcoming Reliance Jio IPO threatens Bhartis scarcity premium, making its 10x EV/Ebitda valuation a key metric for investors. Leverage debate Besides mobile, Bhartis next area of focus is data centres, where it aspires to increase the market share from 12% to 25% over the next three to four years. In the earnings call, management was asked about their leverage, net-debt-to-Ebitda is just about 1.2x after factoring in nearly 16,000 crore to be collected from the final call on the rights issue till March. So, its possible for them to borrow more, stretching their net-debt-to-Ebitda to at least 2x to pursue inorganic growth opportunities in data centres. A net-debt-to-Ebitda of 2x is not considered high for a telecom company, given the stable nature of the business. Also Read | Airtel bets big on data centres, cloud for market share gains The management stated that they are not thinking along those lines, for now. If thats the case, analysts were keen to understand whether Bharti could consider a sizable increase in dividend payouts, given the 50,000 crore in annual free cash flow (Ebitda minus capex) generated from India's mobile services business alone. The management did not confirm this. It appears that either an aggressive growth strategy using higher leverage or an increase in dividend payout would please investors. Reliance Jios upcoming listing will offer investors an opportunity to participate in another pure-play, profitable telecom company. Post Jios listing, it will be interesting to see whether Bharti Airtels scarcity premium as a sole telecom stock diminishes. Bhartis stocks current valuation at EV/Ebitda of 10x, as per Bloomberg consensus estimates for FY28, is not expensive given the near-duopoly status of the telecom industry in India. Tata Steel Ltd reported a 15% year-on-year rise in consolidated Ebitda, adjusted for forex translation, to 8,200 crore in the December quarter (Q3FY26), even as revenue grew a more modest 6% to 57,000 crore. Lower raw material costs, gains from cost-takeout initiatives and higher volumes helped offset continued losses in the UK operations. On a standalone basis, revenue rose 9% to 35,600 crore. Volumes climbed 14%, but average realizations fell 4.5%, limiting adjusted Ebitda growth to 5% at 7,900 crore. Ebitda per tonne declined 8% to 13,090. The outlook for the March quarter (Q4) is stronger, supported by higher domestic steel prices following the imposition of safeguard duty in December. Management expects realizations to improve by about 2,300 per tonne in Q4, partly offset by a $15 (around 1,350) per tonne increase in coking coal prices. Volume growth is expected to remain in line with Q3. Also Read | Taxation and tooling: The twin hurdles keeping debt SIFs off the shelves Global triggers Europe could provide a pricing lever from the second half of the year. The European Unions carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) took effect on 1 January, requiring importers to purchase carbon certificates on steel shipments. A nearly 50% cut in tariff-free steel import quotas and a higher import duty of 50%, from 25% earlier, will come into force on 1 July. Following these changes, European steel prices are expected to improve. Nuvama Institutional Equities has raised its FY27 and FY28 Ebitda estimates for Tata Steel by 5% and 7%, citing higher steel prices and improved profitability in the Netherlands. Also Read | Why Samcos Viraj Gandhi sees equities beating bullion The UK may also move to impose safeguard measures to protect its domestic steel industry, which remains under severe financial stress. The UK government took control of two steel plants in 2025 to prevent their closure. Tata Steel management has said spreads would need to rise by 100 per tonne (about 12,300) for its UK operations to turn profitable. Back home, Tata Steels 0.75 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) plant at Ludhiana is expected to be commissioned next month. Larger expansion plans totalling 7.3 mtpa are slated for FY30. Post-FY27, Tata will log 2-3% volume growth, as benefits of next phase of expansion shall accrue FY30 onwards," Nuvama said. The imposition of interim safeguard duty in April 2025 has helped Tata Steels shares gain nearly 50% over the past year. The stock trades at about 7.4x its FY27 estimated Ebitda, based on brokerage estimates. Price trends in Europe and policy developments in the UK are likely to shape the stocks trajectory going ahead. MUMBAI : The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has proposed extending the facility of standing instructions for systematic withdrawal plans (SWP) and systematic transfer plans (STP) to mutual fund units held in demat form, a move that could simplify cash flow planning for investors. In a consultation paper issued on 5 February, the markets regulator said the change is aimed at improving ease of doing business and bringing parity between mutual fund units held in statement of account (SoA) form and those held in dematerialized form. Mint explains what Sebi has proposed and why it matters. What are the proposals? Sebi has proposed allowing investors to register standing instructions for SWP and STP even when their mutual fund units are held in demat form. At present, such standing instructions are available only for units held in SoA form, whereas demat investors often have to place a manual redemption request. Under the proposal, the framework will be rolled out in two phases. In the first phase, investors will be able to register unit-based SWP or STP instructions through depositories or stock exchanges. Once registered, these instructions will be executed through stock exchange order-entry platforms. In the second phase, the processing of SWP and STP instructions will move to mutual fund registrars, allowing more complex variants such as amount-based withdrawals, appreciation-based switches, and swing STPs. What are SWP and STP? An SWP allows an investor to withdraw money from a mutual fund scheme at regular intervals instead of redeeming a lump sum. The withdrawals can be scheduled monthly, quarterly or at any other fixed frequency. An SWP is typically used by investors who need a regular income, such as during retirement, or who want to withdraw money gradually in a tax-efficient way instead of redeeming a lump sum, while keeping part of their investment exposed to the market. An STP allows investors to move money gradually from one mutual fund scheme to another, typically from a low-risk fund, such as a liquid or debt fund, into an equity fund. This helps investors spread their market entry over time and reduce the risk of investing all at once. The instrument is commonly used when investors have a lump sum but want to invest in equities in a staggered manner to reduce market-timing risk, or when they want to rebalance their portfolio by systematically moving money between equity and debt, including deploying proceeds from maturing fixed deposits or large cash inflows. Data on consolidated SWP and STP flows is not available. Industry participants said that though STP is widely used by investors, SWP has seen less traction so far. How have SWP and STP worked for investors holding mutual fund units in demat form so far? For every withdrawal or transfer, they were required to place a fresh instruction, either by submitting a delivery instruction slip (DIS) to their depository participant or through electronic authorization mechanisms such as two-factor authentication, power of attorney or demat debit and pledge instructions. In the case of STP, each transaction involved multiple steps, including placing sell and buy instructions, execution through a stockbroker on the exchange platform, settlement through clearing corporations, and subsequent updates by the registrar. A similar process is applied to each SWP transaction, with redemption proceeds credited to the investors bank account after settlement. As a result, SWP and STP transactions in demat form had to be executed each time manually, rather than through an automated standing instruction. Why were the changes needed? Sebi said the existing framework does not adequately support investors who hold mutual fund units in demat form, even though demat holdings have become more common over the years. This creates an inconsistency, as investors holding the same mutual fund schemes in SoA form enjoy greater flexibility in setting up systematic withdrawals or transfers. The number of demat accounts rose 55% to 216 million as of December 2025, compared to the same period in 2023. When mutual fund units are held in SoA form, SWP and STP are automated through a standing instruction registered with the mutual fund or its registrar. On each scheduled date, the registrar triggers the redemption, calculates the applicable net asset value (NAV), processes the payout or switch, and updates the investors folio records without any further action from the investor. What does this mean for investors and mutual funds? Investors holding shares in demat form are expected to benefit, as the processes of SWP and STP will become more efficient with fewer intermediaries. The advantage could be felt most by those using online platforms such as Zerodha and Groww to manage their investments. Mutual fund investors are using some of the new-age trading platforms, which store units in demat mode. The proposed changes would help investors on such platforms to efficiently do SWPs and STPs," said Deepak Shenoy, chief executive at Capitalmind Mutual Fund. The implementation of phase 1 would not require any changes at the registrar or transfer agent level, and only minimal modifications to the existing order-entry processes on stock exchange platforms, Sebi said in the draft paper. Depositories, however, would need to undertake system enhancements at their end to enable the framework. For phase 2, at the mutual fund level, some updates to the current infrastructure may be needed, but they may not be major. Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) giant, Marico, on Monday, 9 February 2026, announced that the company's subsidiary has entered into an agreement to acquire a majority stake in a Vietnam-based skin care company, Skinetiq, according to an exchange filing. Shares of the FMCG giant will be in focus of the Indian stock market investors on Tuesday, 10 February 2026. Marico South East Asia Corporation (MSEA), a wholly owned subsidiary of Marico Limited, has entered into definitive agreements to make strategic investment in Skinetiq Joint Stock Company (Skinetiq), an entity incorporated in Vietnam, which owns the digital-first science-backed skin care brand Candid and holds exclusive distribution rights in Vietnam for the luxury clinical skincare brand Murad, the company informed the stock exchanges. Acquisition details Under the agreement, Marico's subsidiary MSEA will acquire a 75% stake in Skinetiq for nearly 261.6 crore or 750 billion Vietnamese Dong via two tranches. The first part of the deal, Marico's subsidiary will pay 222.30 crore upon receiving 75% stake in the firm, and then the remaining 39.3 crore will be paid through the second tranche, subject to the fulfilment of certain terms and conditions under the definitive agreement. The NSE filing also showed that the transaction is expected to be completed within 90 days from the date of signing definitive agreements. The transaction aligns with Maricos long-term strategy of building a strong premium beauty play in Vietnam, while enabling participation in the countrys growing D2C beauty market, and also realising various operational synergies, Marico said in the exchange filing. Marico share price trend Marico shares closed 0.03% higher at 753 after Monday's trading session, compared to 752.75 at the previous trading session, according to the NSE data. The company announced the acquisition update after market operating hours on 9 February 2026. Shares of Marico have given stock market investors more than 82% returns in the last five years and 52% returns in the last three years. NSE data also showed that the company's stock has gained more than 15% in the last one-year period. On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, Marico stock has lost 0.98% so far in 2026, but is trading 4.24% higher in the last five sessions on the Indian stock market, as per the exchange data. Marico stock hit its 52-week high level at 780 on 6 January 2026, while the 52-week low level was at 577.85 on 4 March 2025, according to the NSE data. The FMCG company's market capitalisation (M-Cap) was at 97,746 crore as of the stock market close on Monday, 9 February 2026. Read all stories by Anubhav Mukherjee Reliance shares have been enjoying healthy buying interest this month so far. Reliance Industries (RIL) share price climbed by nearly 1% in morning trade on the BSE on Monday, February 9, rising for the second consecutive session. On a monthly scale, the stock has risen by almost 5% in February so far after suffering a significant loss of 11% in January. RIL shares hit their record high of 1,611.20 on January 5 this year. Experts appear bullish on the stock for the long term due to the company's bright growth prospects. The stock is expected to see a healthy short-term uptrend, too, as market sentiment improves following an India-US trade deal. "The India-US trade deal is positive for this heavyweight stock because the overhang was largely due to this event, especially in comparison to our neighbouring countries. The deal has turned out to be positive, though only the initial details are out," said Ajit Mishra, SVP of Research at Religare Broking. On January 16, the Mukesh Ambani-owned oil-to-telecom-to-retail conglomerate reported a nearly 2% year-on-year (YoY) rise in its consolidated profit to 22,167 crore for Q3FY26. Consolidated revenue from operations rose 10.51% YoY to 2,69,496 crore. Consolidated EBITDA rose 6.1% YoY to 50,932 crore, but EBITDA margin shrank by 70 bps YoY to 17.3% for Q3FY26. Also Read | Stocks to buy for long term: Pankaj Pandey of ICICI recommends 5 shares Is it the right time to buy Reliance shares? Experts appear largely bullish on the stock. Mishra of Religare Broking has a buy recommendation on the stock with a target price of 1,627. Seema Srivastava, Senior Research Analyst at SMC Global Securities, has a positive view on the stock. She pointed out that Reliance represents a rare blend of scale, strategic optionality, and execution capability across multiple economic cycles. "Its diversified portfolio across energy, digital services, retail, media and emerging new energy positions the company as a core proxy for Indias structural growth story. The sustained capex intensity in FY26 reflects a deliberate transition from legacy cash-generating businesses toward future engines of value creation, particularly in new energy, digital infrastructure, and AI-led services," Srivastava said. Srivastava underscored that Jio Platforms continues to strengthen its leadership with rising ARPU, deepening 5G adoption, and expanding broadband reach, which enhances monetisation potential while reinforcing high entry barriers. The collaboration with Google on AI meaningfully elevates Jios positioning, enabling Reliance to embed AI capabilities across consumer and enterprise offerings at scale, potentially opening new revenue pools over the next decade. Srivastava added that Reliance Retail remains a formidable growth pillar, benefiting from unmatched distribution, rapid store expansion, and rising consumer engagement, with hyper-local delivery and omnichannel capabilities improving unit economics and customer stickiness. "While risks such as macroeconomic slowdown and upstream volatility persist, Reliances balance sheet strength, integrated ecosystem, and ability to pivot capital toward high-return opportunities mitigate downside risks," said Srivastava. "Overall, Reliance Industries is evolving from a cyclical conglomerate into a platform-driven enterprise, offering long-term investors a combination of steady cash flows, emerging growth opportunities, and sustained compounding potential aligned with Indias economic and digital transformation," Srivastava said. Reliance share target price Not only fundamentals, but technical indicators also suggest the stock is poised for a healthy upside. Jigar S. Patel, Senior Manager of Equity Technical Research at Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers, highlighted that Reliance shares are currently trading in a consolidation phase, caught between its 200-day exponential moving average (200 DEMA) and 200-day simple moving average (200 DSMA), as seen on the chart. This indicates a temporary equilibrium between buyers and sellers after recent volatility. Patel said an unfilled gap in the 1,3901,395 zone is likely to act as a strong near-term support, as gap areas often attract buying interest during pullbacks. Adding to the positive bias, the MACD has delivered a bullish crossover from extremely low levels a pattern not seen since November 2024 signalling a potential shift in momentum. Such crossovers at depressed levels generally suggest strengthening upside probability and the possibility of trend resumption. View full Image Reliance technical chart ( Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers ) "Considering these technical factors, the outlook appears constructive. Investors may consider accumulating the stock in the 1,3901,430 range, with an upside target of 1,530 and a stop loss placed at 1,360 on a closing basis to manage risk effectively," said Patel. Aakash Shah, a research analyst at Choice Broking, too, has a positive view on the stock. Shah underscored that Reliance's price action shows a recovery attempt with the stock reclaiming the 20 EMA and stabilising near the 50 EMA, reflecting improving short-term momentum. The 100 EMA is positioned slightly above the current price and is acting as an intermediate resistance zone. Sustained acceptance above this level would be an important signal for broader bullish continuation, said Shah. The moving average structure is beginning to flatten, suggesting that bearish momentum is losing strength. RSI has rebounded back above the 50 zone, indicating improving momentum and early accumulation behaviour after the recent decline. "Structurally, the recent swing low near 1,380 now acts as a critical demand zone. As long as price holds above this base, the recovery structure remains valid and favours continuation toward the overhead supply and resistance zone near 1,580," said Shah. Read all market-related news here Read more stories by Nishant Kumar After years of stop-start talks, Indias push for a free-trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union has finally delivered a potential economic tailwind. The deal, billed as one of Indias most ambitious trade pacts, promises to bolster labour-intensive industries, correct tariff asymmetries and unlock billions of dollars in market access. With negotiations concluded and implementation targeted for 2026, policymakers see the agreement as reinforcing Indias positioning as a durable growth story amid shifting global trade patterns. Also Read | Indian IT stocks slide as AI tools signal agentic shift Strategic timing and global messaging The EU-India FTA also carries a broader geopolitical message. It signals New Delhis intent to deepen diversified partnerships at a time of heightened trade frictions and slowing multilateralism, while underscoring a tilt toward bilateral arrangements. Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal has said the pact is part of a wider negotiating push with 37 countries and reflects Indias emphasis on bilateral trade frameworks. The planned 2026 rollout follows an acceleration in talks after 2025 and is expected to help India capitalise on its demographic dividend and manufacturing revival, particularly as Western economies seek alternatives to China amid supply-chain realignments. One notable inclusion is the European Unions Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), its green tariff regime. India has secured provisions aimed at softening the impact on exports such as steel and cement, balancing trade liberalisation with climate considerations. The clause is intended to protect Indian manufacturers while nudging them closer to global environmental standards. Massive tariff wins and market access At the core of the agreement is sweeping tariff elimination. Once in force, duties on 90% of Indian exports to the EU, estimated at $43.5 billion a year, will be removed on day one, rising to 93% within seven years. Officials estimate the changes could yield around $35 billion in annual tariff savings. The concessions are set to narrow a long-standing competitiveness gap with countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan and Turkey, which already enjoy preferential access to the EU. Indian textile exports, for example, currently face a roughly 12% duty disadvantage versus Bangladeshs duty-free entry. The FTA would erase that gap, improving price competitiveness and supporting volume growth. Sectors such as marine products, which face relatively high EU tariffs, are also expected to benefit, with exporters projecting a sharp increase in shipments once duties are rolled back. Thriving sectors and employment surge Labour-intensive sectors emerge as prime beneficiaries, poised for explosive growth: Textiles & Apparel : India's $16 billion EU exports will surge, with hubs like Tirupur and Surat generating lakhs of jobs. Duty-free access boosts competitiveness against Vietnam and Bangladesh. Leather & Footwear : Kanpur's leather clusters and Agra's footwear units gain from zero tariffs, targeting Europe's $80 billion market. Gems & Jewellery : Surat's diamond polishing industry, employing millions, accesses duty-free entry for cut-and-polished gems. Pharmaceuticals : Generic drug makers like Sun Pharma and Dr. Reddy's benefit from immediate tariff relief on $2 billion exports. Marine Products : Shrimp and fish exporters from Visakhapatnam see barriers drop, tapping a $7 billion EU appetite. These gains ripple through MSME clusters, where 70% of employment resides. Goyal highlighted "massive job creation" in textile hubs, potentially adding 5-10 million roles over a decade. MSMEs, often family-run, will scale via enhanced cash flows, formalizing operations and attracting FDI. We decided to perform a comparison of the textile sector and review the positioning as far as the price action is concerned in the last three days after the recent news-flow. View Full Image (TradingView) View Full Image (Raja Venkatraman) View Full Image (Raja Venkatraman) Based on the above relative strength comparison we can note that the trends in ARVIND and TRIDENT seems to be on a recovery mode and its positioning in light of the recent trade deal with European Union (EU) one can definitely look at the prospects for the days ahead. A summary based on the assessment has been shortlisted , these are worth considering from the textile sector. Stocks to trade, recommended by NeoTraders Raja Venkatraman: ARVIND: Buy above 370, stop 348 target 410 (Multiday) Why its recommended: Arvind Limited is a major Indian conglomerate, flagship of the Lalbhai Group, having diversified brands like Arrow, U.S. Polo Assn. etc., retail, advanced materials, engineering, and water solutions. The entire 2025 was spent in highly volatile environment with resistance levels capped at the trendline on higher timeframe (label 1) . With the positive tailwind from the recent development, we can note that the strong closing above the trendline could generate a bullish momentum. Also looking at momentum readings (label 2), we can note that the trends could now emerge as the overall prospects indicate a buying opportunity, consider going long. Key metrics: P/E Ratio: 33.41 52-week high: 404 Volume: 7.87MM Technical analysis: Support at 335, resistance at 425. Risk factors : Raw material price volatility, high debt levels, regulatory and geopolitical changes, and operational disruptions. Buy : above 370. Stop loss: 348. Target price: 410. (3 Months) View Full Image (TradingView) Also Read | NSDL glitch stalls settlements for second day TRIDENT: Buy above 28, stop 24 target 37 (Multiday) Why its recommended: Trident Limited is a major Indian conglomerate, part of the $1 billion Trident Group, known globally as a leading manufacturer of textiles (bed & bath linens, yarn) and paper, also involved in chemicals and power. With some help from the Budget and the trade deal the diversified portfolio strong earnings reported each quarter the prices have been able to absorb the profit booking and holding the 24 level resolutely. After a while demonstrating some has ensured that the recent highs are not given up and recent dips that are emerging to stage a sharp revival leading to a strong upward traction. The long body candle seen on Wednesday despite large scale volatility highlights that we can look for a push to higher levels. Go long now. Key metrics: P/E: 9.86, 52-week high: 923.15, Volume: 904.73K. Technical analysis: Support at 22, resistance at 40. Risk factors: Volatile cotton prices, foreign exchange fluctuations, intense competition especially from low-cost countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, cyclical demand in the denim market (oversupply), high working capital needs. Buy : above 28 Stop loss: 24 Target price: 37 (3 Months) View Full Image (TradingView) Also Read | Devyanis future may hinge more on biryani than fried chicken or pizza Raja Venkatraman is co-founder, NeoTrader. His Sebi-registered research analyst registration no. is INH000016223. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantees performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Commentary: Jimmy Lai verdict, sentence uphold justice in Hong Kong Xinhua) 15:50, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The verdict in the Jimmy Lai case affirms justice and serves as a stern warning that anyone who endangers national security and sabotages the stability of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will face severe punishment by law. The High Court of the HKSAR on Monday sentenced Lai to 20 years in prison, after considering his "serious and grave criminal conduct." Lai was found guilty on two charges of conspiring to collude with external forces and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The court found that Lai was "the mastermind and driving force behind these conspiracies." This verdict makes it clear that any act of colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security will inevitably be exposed in the face of irrefutable evidence, and that anyone who betrays the interests of the nation and Hong Kong will ultimately face severe punishment and pay the due price. Disguised as a media man while acting as an agent for external anti-China forces, Lai was the principal mastermind and perpetrator of a series of riots that shook Hong Kong and undermined the fundamental interests of both the country and the HKSAR. The reality of Lai's crimes is clear, backed by conclusive evidence. The traitor has received the penalty he deserves. The verdict underscores the rule of law in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong today, the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security have become increasingly robust. The days when external forces and anti-China destabilizing elements could act with impunity are obviously over. Lai's case shows that schemes of anti-China elements aimed at destabilizing Hong Kong will not succeed. Any attempts by external forces to interfere in Hong Kong affairs or China's internal matters will be in vain. Relentless efforts will continue to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, ensuring long-term stability and prosperity in Hong Kong and the steady, sustained implementation of the "one country, two systems" policy. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Markets are remarkably forgiving when the mood turns. Over the past few days, equity sentiment has staged a sharp turnaround. A relatively benign Union Budget 2026-27, improving global risk appetite, and two back-to-back trade deals with major economies have the potential to put animal spirits back on the table. Meanwhile, this earnings season has thrown up an interesting developmenta set of businesses whose financial turnarounds have arrived just as the markets mood has improved. That synchronization matters. When profits turn after a stock has already rerated, the payoff is limited. But when operational improvement coincides with a sentiment shift, markets tend to respond disproportionately. That is the narrow lens of this piece. Focusing on three businesses where profitability has returned in Q3FY26 through genuine operating leverage and cost discipline, not accounting creativity, let us examine how fundamentals and risks stack up against stock prices at this inflexion point. JSW Cement: Cost-leadership bore fruit The JSW Cement stock rallied over 9% on Thursday after the company reported a smart turnaround into profits in the December quarter. Despite exceptional expenses of 34 crore on account of the new labour codes, the company went from reporting an 80 crore loss in Q3FY25 to 131 crore profits in Q3FY26. Recovering from a weak demand environment, particularly in JSWs mainstay southern and eastern markets, the companys intrinsic cost advantage is finally playing to its favour. The lowest clinker factor in the industry at about 50% enables low fuel and energy consumption at JSW, even as its high 40% share of GGBS (ground granulated blast furnace slag) in its output has helped expand margins. Growing premiumization of its product-mix, higher use of green power that is expected to triple to 63% by FY27, and logistics optimization are expected to expand Ebitda/tonne from 802 in Q3FY26 to over 1,000 by FY28. Capacity is slated to expand from 22 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 34mtpa by 2028, and to 42mtpa thereafter, paving the way for growth, while also diversifying geographical risk beyond South India. The flip side of the coin, however, is that the debt-funded expansion can undo the progress made on net-debt reduction post its IPO. Net debt-to-Ebitda stood at 2.9x in the December quarter. Meanwhile, delays in regulatory approvals for expansion and pricing pressures amid intense competition can make matters worse. The writing is already on the wall with the sequential decline in realizations during Q3FY26. Free cash flows may also turn intermittently negative, weighed down by investing cash outflows. That said, with the stock now trading above its critical support of 120 apiece, if the promising profitability trends sustain, there is room for further appreciation. Pine Labs: Post-IPO profitability turnaround fails to lift sentiment Fintech firm Pine Labs had listed in early November 2025 at a premium of almost 10% to its IPO price. Since then, amid pessimism in the broader market, increased caution has caused the stock to tumble back below its IPO price. Even a turnaround into profitability during the December quarter has not been able to lift investor sentiment. Despite reporting 42 crore in profit during Q3FY26, a massive recovery from the 57 crore loss in the year-ago period, the stock has corrected over 5% since the earnings announcement on 28 January. What gives? Pine Labs clocked 29% growth in its gross transaction value to 4.5 trillion, driven by the higher-margin software-led revenues. Lower drags from depreciation and Esops also supported margins, more than offsetting the 10 crore additional costs incurred on account of the new labour codes. But investors are looking beyond the recently reported profitability, particularly since Q3s profits did not translate into cash flows. Weighed down by high working capital, Pine Labs continued to report intermittently negative operating cash flows. Competition is also rife in the industry, with PhonePe also gearing up for its IPO. Razorpay, PayU, and Google Pay also command considerable market and mindshare in the online acquiring/gateway and BNPL (buy now, pay later) segments, and can affect Pine Labs pricing power and margins going forward. Mixed regulatory signals, possibly on BNP lending, can also play spoilsport. We had recently witnessed Pine Labs growth affected by confusion around the GST payable on gift card sales. The growing share of international revenues also poses a risk, considering that international take rates are lower for issuers or processors like Pine Labs vs distributors. Also Read | Pros and Cons of Investing in Exide Industries Pine Labs is also exposed to partner-concentration risk. Losing large bank or retail partnerships can weigh significantly on its fortunes, which is the flip side of being a smaller firm partnering with the top banks, petrol companies, retailers, and ecommerce and quick-commerce players. The firms transition into an asset-light business also warrants close monitoring of execution and top-line growth, given that the pivoted focus from hardware-led towards software-led revenues. Delhivery: Volumes drove profitability Investors in Delhivery have cheered the business developments even ahead of its earnings announcement a few days ago. Anticipating the turnaround into profitability, the stock rallied almost 15% in less than two weeks. To be sure, this came after subdued sentiment for over three years. While integration expenses related to the E-Com Express acquisition added 35 crore to Delhiverys costs during the December quarter, operating leverage and margins received a big push from an impressive 43% year-on-year increase in parcel volumes. Supported further by a growing share of margin-accretive e-commerce, its service Ebitda margin clocked a record high during the quarter. Adjusted Ebitda margin came in at 5.2%, and the management has guided for free cash-flow breakeven at a margin of 6%. But its margin-trajectory hinges on the successful execution of its E-Com Express acquisition, especially against the context of year-on-year moderation in B2C per-shipment realizations amid intensifying competition. Ebit margins will also need to be closely tracked, as organic and inorganic expansion can add to depreciation costs. That said, if and when the acquisition synergies accrue, volumes and margins stand to gain ground, buoyed by network densification, scale benefits, potentially higher pricing power, and cross-selling opportunities into new growth adjacencies. This will be a welcome development for the stock trading at almost 200x P/E. If it sustains above 400 apiece, the technical indicators can sync up with the fundamental turnaround and drive earnings upgrades. Caveats When corporate results no longer lag sentiment but sync with it, it is when guarded optimism turns into a durable re-rating. But a headline profit or sequential bounce does not guarantee sustained improvement. A deep dive matters, and the key questions to ask are: Are the earnings durable? Are the revenue drivers repeatable? Is the margin expansion sustainable? Does the balance sheet back up the turnaround? Risks always remain, but if the risk-reward appears promising, the investment can yield multibagger returns. For more such analysis, read Profit Pulse. Ananya Roy is the founder of Credibull Capital, a Sebi-registered investment adviser. Disclosure: The author does not hold shares of the companies discussed. The views expressed are for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions. Across the world, it is a time of charged geopolitics, marked by widespread crackdowns on civil liberties and freedom of expression. Can the art world be unaffected by all the conflict? One can sense the impact of polarisation in the exclusions at certain events. For instance, at the ongoing Kochi-Muziris Biennale, Tom Vattakuzhys exhibition was closed temporarily last year after religious groups protested against Supper at a Nunnery, an interpretation of The Last Supper, outraged by the artists treatment of a Biblical theme. For the 2026 Venice Biennale, South Africas minister of sport, arts and culture blocked artist Gabrielle Goliaths entry Elegy, which depicts gender-based violence and references Gaza. Throughout history, cultural practitioners have responded to moments of conflict in their own unique way, giving rise to significant art movements and major turns in artistic practice. TURMOIL AND HEALING In his 2024 article The Impact of War on Art, published on the website of the online Naturalist Gallery of Contemporary Art, artist Gavin Coates lists Dadaism and Surrealism as two movements forged in a response to turmoil and conflict. The former developed during World War I, with artists like Marcel Duchamp and Hannah Hoch using absurdity and chaos to reject conventional aesthetics, mirror ing the senselessness they saw in the war, he writes. Similarly, Surrealism arose post World War I with artists like Salvador Dali and Andre Breton channeling their trauma into dreamlike, unsettling works that critiqued the social and political conditions of their time. Pablo Picassos Guernica (1937) is still considered one of the most powerful political statements by an artist in response to the bombing of a town in Basque. At home, the trauma and displacement of Partition left a deep impact on the practice of Satish Gujral, Krishen Khanna, Haren Das and Ganesh Haloi. (Haren) Das, who came from the Dinajpur district in modern-day Bangladesh, continued to depict the rural idylls he was to become well-known for making. These idealised landscapes of rural (East) Bengal, played an important part in the wounded psyches of those who were being forcibly displaced. It allowed them to carry an idea of home with them and offered a psychic salve writes Ankan Kazi in the essay, Finding a Refuge: Indian Modern Art and Migration, on the DAG website. The communal violence following the 1992 riots led to the rise of the artist as witness in practices of Vivan Sundaram, Navjot Altaf and Atul Dodiya. View full Image Tito Stanley S J, Waiting for the Luna, from the exhibition The Teeming Earth. ( Courtesy: Anant Art Gallery ) MATTERS OF IDENTITY Artists are no longer impacted by one instance of conflict but by the increase in daily acts of violence, both subtle and obvious. Continued and systemic inequality is a cause of inner turmoil. Once again, we are seeing similar shifts in artmaking and curation. Curator Girish Shahane says that the era of the transcultural superstar curator is fading. Questions are being asked increasingly about who can represent whom because of the emphasis on identity, he says. According to Shaunak Mahbubani, a curator who lives and works in Germany and India, cultural workers are realising the pressing need to create their own pockets of solidarity, independent of the frameworks established by Western institutions. This is sometimes through rhizomatic activations such as the Gaza Biennale, which is taking place across 15 cities such as Berlin, New York and Sarajevo, and creating a platform for important counter-narratives. Or the powerful polyphonous dialogue at the 36th Bienal de Sao Paulo, curated by Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung, reimagining the roads to being human, they say. In the Global South, a big development in artmaking is the rise of the auto-narrative in both theme and materiality. Artists are speaking more strongly from their personal, ancestral and direct communal experiences, thus asserting the right to tell their stories in their own terms. Both artists and curators are avoiding the narrow labels of queer, political and anticaste art to look at complex intersections through a personal lens. Artists like Sajan Mani, Rajyashri Goody, Parag Tandel, Rah Naqvi, Vikrant Bhise and Saviya Lopes are key voices in this movement. Mahbubani is exploring the development of the auto-narrative in their ongoing show, Autopoiesis: A Song for Resuscitation, at Arthshila Goa. The exhibition, on till 1 March, seeks to under stand the lineage, breadth and nuances of this shift through works by six artists from peninsular South Asia, who engage with expanded forms of poetic utterances to revive wounded archives. There is a new series of abstract mixed media paintings by Mumbai-based artist Jahangir Jani, partially created by burning everyday materials as a way to purge the memories of past queer lovers. Fire as an element of transformation is also reflected in a video by Priyageetha Dia. Spurred by beats of the Tamil Dalit funeral practice, Oppari, Dias CGI plantation erupts in flame to protest years of atrocities against indentured labourers, explains Mahbubani. View full Image Sajan Mani, Transmigratory Whispers from Autopoiesis: A Song for Resuscitation. ( Courtesy: COURTESY The Artist/Shaunak Mahbubani ) Hailing from a family of rubber tappers, Sajan Mani imagines an unresolved knowledge system, using the labour of his body to enliven the radical anti-caste poetry of Poyankali Appachan in a 15ft scroll hanging from the heart of the space. Vasai-based Saviya Lopes challenges hard national boundaries by transmuting a large archive of photos and documents from her grandfathers migration on to muslin cloth. Emerging from these tender resonances across lived experiences, we see that grief, resistance, healing and ancestral invocation are deeply intertwined, Mahbubani adds. Shahane too looks at the ecological crisis from a humanist perspective at Teeming Earth, an ongoing show at Anant Art Gallerys new space in New Delhi. It brings together 27 contemporary artists, including Abhishek Narayan Verma, Alexander Gorlizki, Atul Bhalla, Arti Vijay Kadam, Atul Dodiya, Dhara Mehrotra, Digbijayee Khatua, Ravi Agarwal, Tito Stanley and Sudhir Patwardhan. The show might seem like a comment on the Anthropocene but it goes beyond by offering an intimate understanding of how human progress has both nurtured and endangered the world. Imprint of lived experiences is visible in materials and motifs in which personal stories are foregrounded. I have worked with artists like Awadesh Tamrakar, who hails from a family of copper craftspersons, in the show, A Bold Step Sideways (2024). His last name alludes to his communitys identity. He has incorporated that in his work, wherein he uses materials used in the making of copper utensils to talk about belonging and displacement, says Shahane. Another example is of Mumbai-born Al-Qawi Nanawati, who makes her own paper by using material from the clothes of her late mother. This is a means of catharsis. Having said that, the auto-narrative is not rooted in individualism. By centering their lived experiences, artists are making space for collective healing. They use their work as an example, just one of the ways to help articulate the pain stored within. Also Read | Mumbai Gallery Weekend: The 14th edition casts a new lens on contemporary art The fading murals in the royal palace of Bundi are regaining some of their vibrancy with restoration work that started in 2020 under the watchful eye of siblings Janaki Kumari and Manavendra Pratap Singh from Alwars erstwhile royal family. In their 20s, they are not just rescuing a part of history but also creating a wealth of scholarship around these significant 16th century murals. At Arthshila, a different kind of bridge is being createdone that spans geographies, communities and disciplines. Ever since it first opened its doors to the public in 2016, it has grown into a network of multi-art centres across Ahmedabad, Santiniketan, Goa, Delhi and Kochi. The opening of Arthshila Patna in January marks the next chapter in this journey. Situated on Bailey Road, it comes with a reading room, auditorium, galleries and a childrens experience centre. Also Read | How do you collect something as ephemeral as performance art? The art landscape of the country is at an interesting stage. There is a greater visibility of Indian artists internationally. Within the country, new spaces are opening up. The art world is looking beyond the usual hubs to start micro fests, niche museums and exhibition spaces housed in refurbished nightclubs and warehouses. In recent years, new curators, conservators and collectors have emerged to broaden the landscape. We dont need only smart cities, we need smart people, and thats possible only if we start building conversations around culture, says Sanjiv Kumar, 58, a former banker, who believes that children should be exposed to heritage from an early age. To this effect, he started Takshila Educational Society in Delhi to support the creation of schools with an emphasis on art and culture in the 1990s. Arthshila was a natural progression from that. Kumar felt that the cultural landscape, particularly tier-2 centres, was not keeping up with the rapid pace of development. Hence he set sights on cities like Ahmedabad and Santiniketan, which had a rich cultural fabric, to create a contemporary immersive space. In Leh, Arthshila recently undertook the restoration of a 200-year-old village home, which now houses exhibitions, seminars and other capsules related to art and architecture. It has started alliances with art festivals to create student pavilions. Nurturing emerging artistic practices is also the focus of Aishwarya Suresh, 30. The Kochi-based curator is being lauded for Edam, an exhibition featuring 36 artists and collectives, running parallel to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Her research-based curation has resulted in an interesting mix of artworks, including those by Devu Nenmara. The 63-year-old artist picked up the paintbrush for the first time during the covid-19 pandemic, displaying a rare flourish of folk modernism. For Edam, Suresh travelled across Kerala for six months, identifying artists and visiting their studios. According to Pramod Kumar K.G., managing director of the museum consultancy Eka Cultural Resources & Research, it is important to laud young curators, who are focusing on the art of community-driven practices. Meanwhile, Rajasthan takes its tryst with heritage conservation to the next stage by making its cultural centres a hub for global discourse. In Jaipur, Padmanabh Singh from the former royal family of Jaipur state is keeping one eye on the past and the other on the future by leading a cultural renaissance of sorts. He is restoring stepwells, and starting the Jaipur Centre for Art within the City Palace as an exhibition space for contemporary art practices. By opening Sarvato, a chic space to showcase royal cuisine, or infusing fresh energy into the Sculpture Park at the Madhavendra Palace, he is making Jaipur a new-age cultural centre. Also Read | 20 shows to see beyond India Art Fair In Bundi too, Janaki Kumari and Manavendra Pratap Singh are hoping to turn the quaint city into a tourist destination by drawing attention to the priceless art housed within the palace. The conservation work is being carried out privately through their familys Kuldevi Ashapura Mataji Trust. Sushant Pathak, CMO, StoneX Global, a company specialising in natural stone that supports research-led activities and exhibitions related to indigenous stone materiality, says the stone columns, frescoes, and the murals in Bundi are living documents that trace Indias architectural and material intelligence. According to him, the depth, pigment qualityespecially the distinctive blue facadeis hard to replicate anywhere else. There is also a new collector on the block. In his 40s, Shankh Mitra, CEO of Welltower, US-based real estate investment trust that dabbles in healthcare infrastructure, is a relatively new entrant to the art world. However, buzz in art circles suggests that he is the one to watch out for when it comes to bidding for works by Modern masters. A fiery underbidder, is how a Delhi-based gallerist, on request of anonymity, describes Mitra. At an auction by Sothebys in London, Mitra won the bid for F.N. Souzas Houses in Hampstead at $7.57 million. He also helped set the record for Tyeb Mehtas Trussed Bull for close to 70 lakh at SaffronArts auction last year. Mitra joined Welltower in 2016, and rose through the ranks. It will be interesting to see how he influences art records for modern masters in the near future. Abhilasha Ojha is a Delhi-based art and culture writer. Also Read | When art becomes kinetic and codes become creative Across the world, workplaces are learning that employee well-being is not a perk but the foundation of a good work culture. India has been part of this shift. The Union Budget 2026-27 has given mental health more visibility than it has received in years. A second Nimhans in northern India. Upgraded apex status for the National Mental Health Institutes in Ranchi (Jharkhand) and Tezpur (Assam). Fifty per cent expansion in emergency and trauma care capacity at district hospitals. These are meaningful commitments to infrastructure that has long been underfunded. Yet the Budget speech, like much of Indias policy conversation, stopped short of naming what remains invisible: addiction, substance use and recovery. Substance use disorders fall within the ambit of the Mental Healthcare Act 2017. The strengthened infrastructure can, in principle, serve people in recovery. But when the policy language stays silent, so do the systems meant to implement it. Also Read | How to create a personal learning road map and master new professional skills This pattern is familiar. It mirrors what has happened at Indian workplaces over the past two decades. Corporate India has moved to embed mental health in workplace policy: counselling services, mental health days, manager training, and more. What once required courage to raise with an employer now has, in many organisations, institutional support. That progress creates an opening. The next layer of workplace well-being is recovery. And it is waiting for the same institutional attention that mental health received. Inside the office The AIIMS-Ministry of Social Justice national survey, Magnitude of Substance Use in India (2019), found that 14.6% of Indians aged 1075 are current users of alcoholthats about 160 million peopleand 57 million people are estimated to need help for harmful or dependent alcohol use. The highest prevalence is in the 1535 age group, which overlaps almost entirely with the working-age population. Peer-reviewed Indian public health research suggests alcohol contributes to 1520% of work absenteeism and up to 40% of workplace accidents. A 2019 study, Health Impact And Economic Burden Of Alcohol Consumption In India, published in the International Journal On Drug Policy, estimated the overall economic burden of alcohol consumption to be 1.45% of GDP, more than the 1.35% of GDP India was spending on public health at the time. Also Read | What to expect from the workplace in 2026 These figures do not stay outside office doors. They are present in corporate campuses, factories, construction sites, hotels, retail floors and family businesses. Outside the workplace, India has created policy pathways to respond. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, a national drug demand reduction campaign launched by the ministry of social justice and empowerment in August 2020, now operates across all districts. The Drug De-addiction Programme, run by the ministry of health and family welfare since 1988, has established de-addiction centres in government hospitals, though evaluations suggest its reach remains limited. Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts, which are NGO-run facilities funded by the ministry that provide inpatient treatment, counselling and rehabilitation, supported over 339,000 beneficiaries in 2022-23, according to a government press release. Treatment works. It saves lives. People recover. The question is what happens when they return to work. This is where the gap appears. Some Indian employers include substance-use clauses in their codes of conduct. Some offer employee assistance programmes that cover addiction counselling. But structured return-to-work pathways are rare. Also Read | The challenge of letting go of old habits in leadership roles There is no widely adopted framework for phased re-entry, manager guidance, confidentiality protocols, or relapse support. The mental health infrastructure that large employers spent years building has not yet extended to recovery. The result is uncertainty. Employees do not know if disclosure is safe. HR teams navigate without a template. In that silence, many people returning from treatment stay quiet. That is not a system. It is a gap where support should be. Closing the Gap Closing this gap does not require new legislation or large budgets. It requires intent. A recovery-ready workplace begins with a confidential pathway for employees to disclose and request support, one that does not route through their direct reporting line. The fear of career consequences is often the first barrier to seeking help. A return-to-work protocol should allow for phased re-entry: adjusted hours in the initial weeks, a designated point of contact for check-ins, and clarity on expectations. The goal is not reduced accountability but conditions where someone can rebuild confidence without being set up to fail. Manager training should be specific and practical: how to have the initial conversation without overstepping, what language to avoid, when to refer to HR or the employee assistance programme, and how to handle questions from colleagues. Managers are not expected to become counsellors. They need to know where their role ends. Training should also extend to teams. Awareness sessions can help colleagues understand what recovery involves without disclosing individual cases, set norms for respectful conduct, and reduce the casual remarks that can undermine someones return. Also Read | How to talk politics at work when you disagree An employee assistance programme that explicitly includes ongoing recovery support, not just crisis intervention, is essential. Recovery is not a one-time event. Access to continued counselling and check-ins over six to twelve months can make a huge difference. Finally, policy should treat relapse as a clinical event requiring support, not automatic grounds for termination. A workplace that understands this will retain employees who might otherwise be lost and build trust with others who may be struggling in silence. None of this is complicated. What is missing is visibility: a shared understanding that recovery-friendly practices are part of good management, not an exception made for a few. Employees who return successfully retain institutional knowledge and reduce hiring costs. More importantly, they bring a resilience that comes from having navigated difficulty. People who seek help and do the work of recovery deserve a path back. Not through luck or the goodwill of one sympathetic manager, or through someones discretion, but through a system designed to support them. Indias journey on workplace mental health shows what is possible when institutions decide to act. Recovery is the next step. The treatment infrastructure exists. The workplace well-being frameworks exist. What remains is for employers to make visible what has been handled in silence for too long: that people get better, and that getting better should not mean starting over. Arjun R. Iyer is a communications strategist and in recovery. Write to us at feedback@livemint.com Also Read | The unspoken advantage of being popular at work HRA relief: The Centre is likely to expand the list of cities eligible for higher House Rent Allowance (HRA) exemption under the old tax regime, according to The Economic Times. At present, taxpayers in big metros, including Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai, are eligible for a 50% HRA exemption, while taxpayers in other urban centres can claim a 40% exemption. The proposal seeks to expand the 50% benefit to more cities, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune, as per the report. It added that other cities remain at 40%. Why the change? The report said the government wants to modernise HRA provision in line with evolving demographics, while keeping up with rental price increases in cities that are economic hubs. Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru are major IT, manufacturing and startup centres with an increasing salaried class and higher rents. Notably, the list of approved metros was not updated since the early 1990s, according to Agam Gupta, Excutiv Dirctor, Shar India Fincap. When can you avail HRA benefit? HRA is exempted under section 10(13A) of Income Tax Act for salaried individuals. However, it is available only to those filing under the old tax regime. The new tax regime does not have most exemptions. Full list of cities that may have 50% exemption After the changes come into effect, taxpaying residents in the following cities will be able to claim a 50% HRA exemption under the old tax regime: Ahmedabad Bengaluru Chennai Delhi Hyderabad Kolkata Mumbai Pune Also Read | Beijing asks banks to dump US Treasuries weeks ahead of Trump's China visit Key things to keep in mind while claiming HRA HRA is a vital part of your salary, and claiming it appropriately can lead to tax savings depending on your rental situation and the amount of HRA you receive from your employer. These are some key things to keep in mind while claiming HRA: Ensure you have a signed rent agreement with your landlord. You can ask for the landlord's permanent account number (PAN). Make sure you pay rent by bank transfer, not in cash. Always remember to obtain a rent receipt from your landlord when you deposit the rent. TDS should be deducted as per section 194IB, which comes into effect when the rent paid is more than 50,000 per month. The rate of TDS is 2% (5% till 20 September 2024). 50,000 per month. The rate of TDS is 2% (5% till 20 September 2024). You can check your HRA calculation on the official Income Tax website here https://incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tools/house-rent-allowance-calculator.aspx Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) has suspended the implementation of the yearly fare adjustment, which was slated to take effect on 9 February. Following the BMRCL decision, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar on Monday said the decision to put the fare hike on hold was made by the Karnataka government. The deputy CM said he has directed the BMRCL officials to prepare a revised fare structure. "BMRCL fare increase is based on a formula - OMR cost, existing cost based on CPI, and energy cost. Based on this, I have directed them to come up with a revised fare. In Delhi, for example, security and other things are taken care of by the central government. The cost is very high. I have asked them to recalculate. The decision to put the fare hike on hold was made by the Karnataka Government; the central government has no role in this. There is a formula, and accordingly, FFC (Fare Fixation Committee) has done all the workouts of expenditure and other things," Shivakumar said. Also Read | Bengaluru metro: Why your commute is getting costlier In a statement released on Sunday, the BMRCL said the prior notification regarding the tariff update would not be implemented until further instructions, suggesting that a final decision is still pending. "The media release dated February 5 announcing the implementation of the annual fare revision with effect from February 9 has been kept on hold till further orders," the BMRCL statement said. The BMRCL also mentioned that the issue would be reviewed by its board before any resolution is reached. "The decision on the revised fare will be communicated after the board's review," the corporation added. BJP, JD(S) criticise Karnataka govt Earlier on Sunday, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya consulted with passengers to collect their opinions. Later, he informed journalists that they were frustrated by constant price changes and accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar of deceiving the citizens by blaming the Centre for the increase. Surya also requested the establishment of a Fare Fixation Committee. Reaffirming its service dedication, the BMRCL noted it continues to emphasize passengers' welfare. "The BMRCL remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable metro services to the citizens of Bengaluru," it said. On Saturday, Surya remarked that Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar had directed bureaucrats to briefly put the planned metro fare rise on standby. Also Read | Bengaluru: Cong files case against Karnataka BJP over defamatory X post Surya noted that the minister also promised a private assessment of discrepancies in the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) and mentioned a new panel could be contemplated if the regional administration asked for it. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy faulted the state administration for the metro price surge. The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi High Court to hear former Uttar Pradesh MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengars appeal against his conviction and 10-year sentence in the custodial death case of the Unnao rape victims father on an out-of-turn basis, directing that the matter be decided within three months. The apex court also ordered that the victims appeal seeking enhancement of Sengars sentence be heard along with his appeal against conviction, legal news website LiveLaw said. A Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice N V Anjaria was hearing Sengars plea challenging the Delhi High Courts January 19 order refusing to suspend his sentence in the custodial death case. Defence claims sentence almost completed Appearing for Sengar, Senior Advocate Siddharth Dave submitted that the former MLA has nearly completed the sentence awarded to him. 9 yrs 7 months I have completed out of 10 years...HC says period of incarceration is not sole criteria...my appeal is of 2020...10 years is the sentence...another 5 months, I would have undergone the entire sentence! Dave was quoted as saying by legal news website Live Law. CJI flags actual incarceration and remission CJI Kant intervened to clarify the actual period of imprisonment undergone by Sengar, observing, Actual undergone is 7 yrs something... The CJI further cautioned that remission may not automatically apply in such cases, adding, it is highly debatable whether you will be entitled to claim remission in such case of moral turpitude. Court questions absence of appeal for enhanced charge During the hearing, Justice Joymalya Bagchi questioned why no appeal had been filed seeking conversion of the conviction to a more serious offence. Why not appeal for converting it to S.302? Justice Bagchi asked. Responding to this, Dave said, Today there's no appeal, the cause title... Justice Bagchi, however, dismissed the technical objection, stating, We are not concerned with cause title...victim is before us. Court records submissions, seeks expeditious High Court hearing Recording the submissions, the Supreme Court noted: At the outset it is pointed out by SG Mehta that appellant's criminal appeal is pending before the HC on Feb 11. He thus submits that HC can be requested to take up and decide the appeal on merits on out of turn basis. The bench further observed that although counsel for the complainant had referred to an appeal challenging the quantum of sentence, it was not reflected in the record. Since there is no reference of this appeal, we do not express any opinion in relation thereto, the court said. Life sentence in separate rape case noted Senior Advocate Dave also argued that in cases involving a fixed-term sentence, suspension during the pendency of an appeal is generally granted. However, the bench pointed out that Sengar is already serving a life sentence in a separate case related to the rape of the Unnao survivor. India-US trade deal: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said the recently announced 18% tariffs imposed by the US are likely to come into effect starting next week. Speaking to CNBC-TV18, Goyal explained that the new tariff regime would begin once the White House signs an executive order. He added that United States Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer will likely visit India in March to sign a legal document formalising the deal. Goyal's remarks came after the two nations unveiled a framework for an interim trade agreement on 7 February. The India-US trade agreement aims to bring down trade barriers, reduce tariffs, and open market access for both sides. The interim deal focuses on giving immediate relief to exporters through tariff reductions, the government said. Tariff reset to improve US market access for Indian goods: Goyal The Commerce Minister confirmed that the tariff reset would greatly improve the US market access for Indian goods, and nearly 50% of Indian exports to Washington will attract zero duty under the new deal. Another 10-15% of India's exports to the US, including steel and aluminium, will remain subject to US Section 232 sectoral tariffs and continue to face duties of up to 50%. Nearly 35% of the remaining exports will be subject to around 18% tariffs, Goyal added. Inventory-related issues for e-commerce firms not part of deal: Goyal Goyal also added that the inventory-related issues for e-commerce companies were not part of the trade negotiations between the two nations. Elaborating further, he said that while New Delhi and Washington held discussions regarding trade concessions in the deal, e-commerce firms' inventory was not included, indicating that India's existing framework for the sector remains unchanged. US to monitor India's Russian oil imports? According to Goyal, the issue of Russian crude oil imports was not part of the trade deal that is to come into effect in the coming days. He clarified that Washington previously said it would monitor India's future oil imports from Russia, but the matter is being handled by the Ministry of External Affairs under S Jaishankar. India-US trade deal On 2 February, US President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with India, reducing the tariff 18%. Trump announced the deal on Truth Social, following a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on Truth Social, he said that India would halt its purchase of crude oil from Russia and would instead buy oil from the US and possibly Venezuela. In addition to India agreeing to buy over $500 billion worth of US goods, including energy, coal, technology, and other products, Trump said that Modi also committed that India will "BUY AMERICAN at a much higher level." According to Reuters, a White House official confirmed that Washington had rescinded the additional 25% tariffs imposed on all imports from India for its purchase of Russian oil. Since August 2025, when the Trump administration announced 50% tariffs on New Delhi, including a 25% punitive tariff for its continued purchase of Russian oil, the Indian markets had been battered, making it one of the worst-performing markets among emerging nations in 2025, Reuters reported. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin met in Ottawa on Saturday. They reportedly agreed to formulate a "shared work plan" to guide cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues. They decided to have a larger plan to implement practical collaboration to address mutual concerns such as transnational criminal networks, PTI reported. The move is seen by both India and Canada as part of efforts to normalise their relations that came under severe strain following a diplomatic row over the killing of Khalistani separatist Nijjar in 2023. NSA Doval's visit to Ottawa came as the two sides are making preparations for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's likely trip to India early next month. MEA's full statement Sharing details of the Doval-Drouin meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Sunday that the two sides acknowledged the progress on initiatives aimed at supporting the safety and security of their countries and citizens. "They agreed to a shared work plan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues and to enable practical collaboration on respective priorities," the MEA said in a statement. "During the meeting, it was agreed that each country would establish security and law-enforcement liaison officers and that their respective agencies would build on working relationships," the MEA said in a statement. It said this "important step" will help streamline bilateral communications and enable timely information sharing on issues of "mutual concern" such as the "illegal flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl precursors, and transnational organized criminal networks". It said, They also committed to formalising cooperation on cybersecurity policy and information sharing on cybersecurity issues, as well as continuing discussions on cooperation related to fraud and immigration enforcement, consistent with domestic laws and international obligations. Also Read | Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to meet Jaishankar, Goyal today NSA Doval also met with Canada's Minister for Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, on Friday. The India-Canada relations hit rock bottom following then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations in 2023 of a potential Indian link to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India had dismissed Trudeau's accusation as "absurd". In October 2024, India recalled its high commissioner and five other diplomats after Ottawa attempted to link them to the Nijjar case. India also expelled an equal number of Canadian diplomats. However, Liberal Party leader Carney's victory in the parliamentary election in April last year helped begin the process of resetting relations. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)-SP boss Sharad Pawar was rushed to Punes Ruby Hall Clinic on Monday after he complained of difficulty in breathing. Pawars office confirmed the news and said that he has been experiencing a cough since Monday morning. Pawar was taken from Baramati to Pune by his daughter Supriya Sule, and son-in-law, Sadanand Sule. The 85-year-old opposition stalwartfell ill while in Baramati and was given initial medical care there. As his health did not improve, doctors recommended that he be moved to Pune for further tests and comprehensive treatment. Pawar arrived at the medical facility in an MPV and was able to step out of the vehicle unaided, before later being escorted inside in a wheelchair. Daughter Sule later said that the former Union minister had developed chest congestion and would require a five-day course of antibiotics. Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a five-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your good wishes and constant support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart, Sule wrote on X. Several party leaders and supporters have voiced concern about Pawars health, pointing out that he had remained publicly active in recent days despite a bereavement in the family. Even after the passing of his nephew and former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, he continued to interact with people and attend public engagements. More clarity on his condition is expected once doctors complete their examination and assess how he is responding to the treatment. Pawar was diagnosed with oral cancer in the late 1990s and successfully battled the disease. His treatment involved several surgical procedures carried out in both the United States and India. Pawar suffered a shock last month after his nephew Ajit Pawar, former deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati. The private aircraft carrying Pawar crashed at Baramati on January 28, killing all five persons who were on board. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has already ordered a probe into the incident. A first-year law student reportedly shot and killed his female classmate inside a classroom, then turned the gun on himself at a private college in the Tarn Taran district of Punjab on Monday, 9 February morning, according to a report by the Hindustan Times (HT). The incident that occurred at Mai Bhago Law College in Usma village was recorded on the CCTV camera installed in the classroom. The tragedy occurred just before the lectures for the day were yet to start. According to police, the accused, identified as 20-year-old Prince Raj of Mallian village, entered the classroom and shot 19-year-old Sandeep Kaur directly in the head after a conversation. Also Read | Autopsy exposes staged hit-and-run in Rajasthan murder case What did CCTV footage reveal? According to PTI, the CCTV footage showed Prince, Sandeep, and another female student sitting together, while other students were also seen. Suddenly, Prince stood up, pulled out a pistol from his bag, and shot Sandeep. He then shot himself in the head and collapsed to the floor. The shocked student, sitting beside Sandeep, got up and checked on her, but she remained motionless. A few students hurried into the classroom after hearing the gunshot but fled when they saw Sandeep. Meanwhile, Prince was quickly taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition and is still under medical care. Even though a motive has yet to be determined, Tarn Taran senior superintendent of police (SSP) Surendra Lamba said that a friendship angle appears to be the primary lead in the initial investigation. Also Read | US marine tragedy kills 7 on board as fishing boat sinks off Gloucester Prince and Sandeep were both first-year law students and classmates at Mai Bhago Law College in Usma village. A family member of Sandeep claimed that Prince had been harassing her for some time. Her family also stated that Sandeep was engaged to be married," PTI reported. We have seized the mobile phones of both students and sent them for forensic examination to understand the nature of their relationship and the events leading up to the shooting, the HT report quoted SSP Lamba. Supreme Court on Sir Hearing Highlights: The Supreme Court heard pleas challenging the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls being carried out in West Bengal on A bench consisting of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and NV Anjaria is hearing the matter, Bar and Bench reported. In its interim order, the Supreme Court extended the state's SIR deadline to February 14, the legal portal noted. On Wednesday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appeared in person to present her petition in the matter. Catch all live updates from the hearing today. Amid West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's concerns over potential mass exclusion of voters in the state's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the Supreme Court on Monday said that it would not permit any obstacles to the process, PTI reported. Here are the top five updates: 1. A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and NV Anjaria, stated that it would issue any necessary orders or clarifications in the matter. 2. "We will not allow anyone to create any impediment in the SIR exercise. It must be clear to the states," the CJI said while hearing a batch of petitions, including the one filed by Banerjee, related to the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls in West Bengal. Also Read | Supreme Court on SIR Hearing LIVE: Bengal SIR deadline extended by one week 3. The bench took note of the affidavit filed by the Election Commission (EC), which alleged burning of its notices by some miscreants. It directed the West Bengal director general of police (DGP) to file an affidavit in this regard. 4. The poll panel said that so far, no FIR has been registered against the miscreants. "A message must go that the Constitution of India applies to all states," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said, as reported by PTI. 5. The Supreme Court noted that the West Bengal government had submitted a list of 8,505 Group B officers to the election panel, suggesting they could be trained and deployed for the SIR process. 6. The bench clarified that the final decisions on revising the electoral rolls will rest solely with the electoral roll officers. The bench said the manner of employment and work profile of these 8,505 officers will be decided by the poll panel. 7. During the hearing, senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Banerjee, raised apprehensions about the appointment of micro-observers and mass exclusion of eligible voters in the SIR exercise. We don't want any mass exclusion, Divan told the bench. SC issues interim directions 8. Chief Justice Surya Kant said that to streamline the West Bengal SIR process and address the apprehensions raised, the top court issued the following interim directions, as reported by the Bar and Bench. a. Let the state of West Bengal ensure that all 8,555 group B officers whose list has been handed over today report to the district electoral officers (DRO) by 5 PM. b. The ECI shall have the discretion to replace the existing ERO, AERO and utilise the services of the present if found qualified, the Bar and Bench reported. c. After briefly scrutinising their biodata, these state govt officials may be imparted a brief training of a day or two so as to work as the micro observers, the CJI said, as reported by Bar and Bench. Also Read | EC revises timeline for SIR of Uttar Pradesh voter list, extends deadline d. The responsibility assigned to micro observers or the state govt officials shall be to only assist the EROs as the final decision will be of the ERO, the CJI Kant added. e. Since new set of government officials have been inducted, the process of scrutinising documents submitted by affected persons is likely to take more time and as suggested on behalf of some of the petitioners, we direct that one week more time shall be granted beyond 14 February to the ERO to complete scrutiny and take a decision, the Bar and Bench reported, citing the CJI. India-US trade deal: India's new trade pact with the US offers tariff relief for luxury cars and Harley-Davidson bikes, but electric vehicles (EVs) remain excluded - a setback for Elon Musk's Tesla, which has been lobbying for lower duties in the Indian market. According to officials cited by Reuters on 7 February, New Delhi will slash tariffs on high-end American cars to 30% from the previously announced 110% under the interim trade pact. Duties on Harley-Davidson bikes will also be eliminated. However, the agreement makes no concessions for EVs, a move that will effectively affect Tesla, which is already trying hard to make a mark in the world's third-largest passenger vehicle market. The development comes after US President Donald Trump, on 2 February, announced an interim trade deal with India, after months of negotiations and a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The recently announced trade deal drastically reduced tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, in exchange for New Delhi halting the purchases of Russian crude oil. Electric vehicles excluded from the deal The report, citing an official, said tariffs on traditional internal-combustion cars with engine capacity over 3,000 cc would eventually drop to 30% over the next 10 years. The electric vehicles have been left out of the deal, possibly shutting a lower-tariff entry door for Tesla, the official added. The move also ignores a key demand made by Tesla's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Elon Musk, who has often criticised New Delhi's high duties. The exclusion of American EVs is in stark contrast to the broader auto access that India has offered to the European carmakers, after New Delhi signed a deal with the European Union and announced steep tariff cuts to as low as 10%, across a wide range of vehicles, including gradual concessions on some EVs. Musk's Tesla faces a tough time in India According to a Bloomberg report published in January 2026, Tesla has been struggling to offload even one-third of the vehicles it imported in India last year. This is because some prospective buyers who made early bookings backed out. With the company struggling to make a mark in the world's third-largest car market, the Musk-led EV company is now offering discounts of up to 200,000 ($2,200) on select variants of the SUV. Tesla, which entered the Indian market in July 2025, has been witnessing a tepid debut amid faltering global demand. Tesla's worldwide sales in 2025 fell for a second consecutive year, while China's BYD took the top spot in EVs. Also Read | BYD overtakes Tesla as world's largest EV seller in 2025 Waning subsidies and increasing competition faltered Tesla's share in some markets, including the US, Europe, and China. As far as Indian buyers are concerned, the report suggests they are yet to fully embrace the brand, amid its limited visibility and higher price point. Further, prospective car buyers back out after a test drive and opt for alternatives that are either comparatively cheaper or are loaded with additional features. This includes BMW's iX1 or BYD's Sealion, both of which have a price point lower than Teslas Model Y in India. The missing Nancy Guthrie case has taken a fresh turn as police searched the residence of her elder daughter, Annie, on Sunday. Nancy, an 84-year-old, is the mother of NBC TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie, who went missing from her home in Catalina, in Arizona's Pima County, in the middle of the night on January 31. According to the police, she is being held for ransom. Also Read | Nancy Guthrie search update: Cops probe septic tank at Tucson home Search at Annie Guthrie's home According to a PEOPLE report, law enforcement officials were seen at the residence of Annie and her husband, Tommaso Cioni, late Saturday evening, February 7. Annies property, which the couple recently purchased for approximately $650,000, is located approximately 10 minutes from her mothers home in Tucson. This search came just hours after Annie and her siblings, Savannah and Camron, shared a new video message for their moms potential kidnapper. Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We havent heard anything directly, the siblings said in the video message. Talking to the PEOPLE, FBI special agent, Tracy Walder, said that the officials may have either asked Annies permission, obtained a search warrant or both, before searching the property. The search at Annie's home lasted over two and a half hoursfrom about 8 PM to 10:30 PM local time. Some local reporters have claimed that the investigators opened the septic tank at the house. A police officer was seen leaving Annie's home with a white suitcase, which Walder said had evidence processing tools, and a brown bag of evidence. Annie's residence was reportedly searched for a second time on Sunday. Earlier on Saturday, police took the couple's car for a probe and removed the security cameras from their house. The back and forth is, of course, odd and we dont see that a lot, Walder said of the searching parties behaviour, which she believed could be attributed to so many things such as reactions to ransom note details, new suspects emerging, request by the family, etc. Is Annie a suspect? Annie Guthrie is not officially a suspect as of now. On February 8, the Pima County Sheriffs Department (PCSD) said that there are currently no suspects or persons of interest in the investigation into Nancys disappearance. The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing. Follow-up continues at multiple locations," the department wrote. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. PCSD also said that the department would call for a press conference if any significant developments occur in the case. Nancy Guthrie's disappearance Nancy Guthrie was last seen in the evening of January 31 when her son-in-law, Cioni. He had dropped her off at her house after she had dinner with him and Annie at their home, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos previously told The New York Times. A trail of what appears to be blood was found on the front steps of Nancy's home that authorities confirmed is hers. Remnants of a Ring camera had also been removed from the front door area, PEOPLE confirmed. Authorities are investigating an alleged ransom note of 6 million sent to the media. FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke said that the notes sender set a deadline of 5 PM on February 5. A former senior FBI official has questioned whether Savannah Guthries missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, 84, is actually alive or being held by kidnappers, raising fresh doubts about the case as ransom demands continue to circulate. Chris Swecker, a former FBI Assistant Director, said he was unconvinced by the claims made by individuals alleging they have abducted the Today show anchors mother. Im very skeptical of this, Swecker told Fox News on Sunday. Is this really a kidnapping? Does somebody really have her, and is she really alive? No proof of life provided Swecker said that if the case involved a genuine kidnapping, providing proof of life would be straightforward something he said has not happened so far. If this was a kidnapping, it would be a very simple matter to authenticate and provide proof of life, he said, adding that no evidence had been credibly authenticated at this point. You have to allow for the possibility that this was something more or something other than a kidnapping, he added. Family plea and ransom demand The comments come after Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings publicly appealed on social media to the person or people claiming to have their mother, saying they were willing to pay the ransom being demanded reportedly as much as $6 million. Ransom amount raises red flags Swecker also questioned the rapidly escalating ransom demands, calling them suspicious. Remember now, it was $1 million not too long ago. All of a sudden, its $6 million, he said. I really think theres a third party here thats just playing with them opportunists who think they can exploit this situation. Purported ransom notes surface At least two alleged ransom messages have surfaced since Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona. One note, sent to multiple media outlets about a week ago, outlined two deadlines one on Thursday, which has already passed, and another on Monday, according to FBI officials. Iranian Atomic chief Mohammad Eslami has indicated Tehran may be willing to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium if all international sanctions imposed on the country are lifted, according to state news agency ISNA. The remarks of the Iranian Atomic chief come as Tehran said earlier in the day that distrust with the United States has persisted despite the resumption of talks amid Iran-US tensions. The statement signals a potential opening for renewed negotiations amid long-running tensions over Tehrans nuclear programme. Also Read | Khamenei skips key meeting with air force generals for first time in 37 years "In conclusion, in response to a question about the possibility of diluting 60 percent enriched uranium... the head of the Atomic Energy Organization said that this depends on whether all sanctions would be lifted in return," the official IRNA news agency reported, referring to agency chief Mohammad Eslami, without specifying whether this included all sanctions on Iran or only those imposed by the United States, AFP reported. How does diluting Uranium takes place? Diluting uranium involves mixing it with other materials to lower its enrichment level, ensuring the final product stays below a specified threshold. Before U.S. and Israeli strikes on its nuclear facilities in June last year, Iran had been enriching uranium to 60 per centwell above the 3.67 per cent limit set under the now-defunct 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, AFP reported. Western countries, led by the United States, suspect that Tehran is pursuing nuclear weaponsa claim Iran denies. According to the UNs nuclear watchdog, Iran is the only non-nuclear-weapon state enriching uranium to 60 per cent. The fate of over 400 kg of highly enriched uranium that Iran held before the conflict remains unknown, with UN inspectors last recording its location on June 10. If enriched to 90 percent, this stockpile could potentially be used to produce more than nine nuclear bombs. Iran-US relations Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran still holds "deep distrust" for the United States despite agreeing to return to talks on its disputed nuclear programme, as reported by AFP. "We are looking for serious negotiations to achieve a result, provided the other side shows the same seriousness and is also ready for constructive negotiations," the minister said. "Unfortunately, a deep mistrust persists due to the behaviour of the United States in recent years," he said, addressing ambassadors at a diplomatic gathering in Tehran. US-Iran talks on Tuesday Ali Larijani, adviser to Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and secretary of Irans National Security Council, is set to visit Oman on Tuesday following indirect U.S.-Iran talks there, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. Last week, U.S. and Iranian diplomats held Omani-mediated discussions in the Gulf state to revive diplomacy amid a U.S. naval buildup near Iran and Tehrans warnings of a severe response if attacked, as reported by Reuters. "During this trip, (Larijani) will meet with high-ranking officials of the Sultanate of Oman and discuss the latest regional and international developments and bilateral cooperation at various levels," Tasnim said. The date and venue of the next round of talks have yet to be announced. Last year, Iran and the U.S. held five rounds of talks aimed at curbing Tehrans nuclear program, but negotiations broke down mainly over disputes concerning uranium enrichment in Iran. In June, the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear facilities following a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. Since then, Tehran has claimed it has halted enrichment activities, which the U.S. sees as a potential pathway to nuclear weapons. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely for peaceful purposes, Reuters reported. The U.S. seeks to include Irans ballistic missile program in the negotiations, but Tehran has firmly rejected this. The United States had threatened military action against Iran at the height of the nationwide protest movement earlier this year, which was met with a deadly crackdown by authorities, AFP reported. US President Donald Trump later expressed optimism that Iran might be open to a deal, though there was no immediate indication that the protests were discussed during Fridays Omani-mediated talks, AFP reported. With intensifying US military expansion in the Gulf, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly ended his 37-year-old practice by skipping the yearly 8 February meeting with air force generals. Khamenei has joined the annual session every year since taking leadership in 1989 -- even through the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a report by Iran International. The yearly meeting commemorates the anniversary of 8 February 1979, when a cohort of air force officers swore loyalty to Ruhollah Khomeini to topple the Pahlavi monarchy. Khomeini was the founder of the Islamic Republic and Khamenei's predecessor as Supreme Leader. Throughout the subsequent four decades, the date became a symbolic ritual, with air force staff and superiors meeting Iran's clerical elite on that same date each year. The report noted that this year, instead of Khamenei, the chief of staff of the armed forces, Abdolrahim Mousavi, consulted with the army and air force commanders on Sunday. The development comes as frictions between Tehran and Washington have intensified, with the US growing its military footprint in the region and anxieties of a possible US military strike hanging over the Islamic Republic. The absence of Khamenei is being interpreted as the Supreme Leader dodging exposure to potential danger or being busy with issues of national defence. Iran-US talks Iran and the United States staged indirect discussions in Oman on Friday, negotiations that seemed to revert to the initial stage on how to handle dialogues over Tehrans nuclear project. But for the first time, America included its top military officer in the Middle East at the table. The visibility of US Navy Admiral Brad Cooper, chief of the militarys Central Command, in his formal attire at the talks in Muscat, the Omani capital, acted as a warning that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and further warships were now near the coast of Iran in the Arabian Sea. President Donald Trump remarked that the United States had very good talks on Iran and stated more were scheduled for early next week. But he maintained the pressure, cautioning that if the nation didnt strike a deal over its nuclear programme, the consequences are very steep. Iran looks like they want to make a deal very badly as they should, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. Ali Larijani, an advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will travel to Oman joined by a delegation on Tuesday, the semi-official Tasnim news agency claimed on Monday. "During this trip, (Larijani) will meet with high-ranking officials of the Sultanate of Oman and discuss the latest regional and international developments and bilateral cooperation at various levels," Tasnim said. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman launched a sharp attack on the Shehbaz Sharif-led Pakistan government and the countrys security establishment, while criticising their handling of the Afghanistan extremism issue, according to a report by News18. Addressing an event, Fazlur Rehman questioned Pakistans strategic approach over the past 78 years, especially its policy toward Afghanistan. He asked why the country had never reflected on how its Afghan strategy had failed so miserably, highlighting the contradiction that while trade from Afghanistan is almost completely blocked, militant infiltration continues unabated, the report stated. Not a single pomegranate or melon can enter Pakistan, yet terrorists keep crossing the border, he said, as reported by News18. As reported by NDTV, Fazlur Rehman added, "Authorities say terrorists are coming from there. If they are coming, stop them. If they are coming, eliminate them. The Afghan government has never objected to your actions." Watch the video here: Note: Mint couldn't independently verify the authenticity of the video or when it was posted. Fazlur Rehman also strongly criticised the governments handling of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), once projected as a transformative project for Pakistans economy, saying the Shehbaz Sharif-led government has failed to restore Chinese confidence or attract fresh investment. Also Read | Trump not so sharif'? US Prez makes Pak PM wait for 60 minutes ahead of meeting CPEC has seen no real progress during this tenure because China no longer trusts us," he said, as reported by News18. Islamabad mosque attack In Fridays attack, a gunman opened fire at the Khadija Tul Kubra Imambargah on the outskirts of Pakistans capital, then detonated a bomb, killing 32 people and himself, and injuring over 170 others. Earlier, Pakistans Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif said that the attack showed Pakistan-based militants operating from Afghanistan were capable of striking even the capital, remarks that prompted a strong reaction from Afghanistans Taliban government, AP reported. View full Image Mourners attend the funeral of Shiite Muslims, a day after a suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad on February 7, 2026. Funerals took place on February 7, for some of the victims of a suicide blast at a Shiite mosque in Pakistan's capital Islamabad that killed at least 31 people and wounded scores more during Friday prayers. (Photo by Aamir QURESHI / AFP) ( AFP ) In a statement, Afghanistans Defence Ministry condemned the mosque attack in Islamabad but accused the Pakistani defence minister of irresponsibly linking it to Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly alleged that Afghanistan, where the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, shelters militants, including members of the Pakistani Talibanclaims that Kabul has denied, AP reported. Jimmy Lai, the Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul, was on Monday morning sentenced to 20 years in prison the harshest penalty ever handed down for a national security offence in the semiautonomous territory. The High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) sentenced Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai, an instigator of anti-China riots in Hong Kong, to 20 years in prison, China-based Xinhua reported. What is Jimmy Lai accused of? According to local media, the High Court of the HKSAR last December found Lai guilty of two charges of conspiring to collude with external forces and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. "After considering the serious and grave criminal conduct of Lai... the Court was satisfied that the total sentence for Lai in the present case should be 20 years' imprisonment," a summary document from the judges said, as per AFP. Two of those years will overlap with Lai's existing prison term, meaning that he will serve an additional 18 years, the judges wrote. Lai was prosecuted under a Hong Kong national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020, a year after huge, sometimes violent, pro-democracy protests in the finance hub. Mitigation hearing for Lai's case began on 12 January and concluded on 13 January. Also Read | Jimmy Lai net worth and what the guilty verdict means for his wealth The defendants in the national security case include Lai, Apple Daily Limited, Apple Daily Printing Limited, and Apple Daily Internet Limited all facing charges of conspiracy to publish seditious materials and conspiracy to collude with external forces. In July 2020, shortly after the national security law took effect, the same law under which authorities have now convicted him, Lai told The Associated Press: Hong Kong is dead. If I have to go to prison, I dont mind. I dont care, Lai had said, adding that, It wont be something I can worry about, Ill just relax and do what I have to do. 'DraconianCruel' The family of Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Lai said on Monday that his 20-year prison sentence under the national security law was "draconian" and "cruel". "Sentencing my father to this draconian prison sentence is devastating for our family and life-threatening for my father," Lai's son Sebastien said in a statement by the family, according to AFP. Also Read | Hong Kong's top court sends tycoon Jimmy Lai back to jail His daughter Claire called it "a heartbreakingly cruel sentence", given his declining health in prison, and if carried out, "he will die a martyr behind bars". Taiwan condemns 'harsh' sentence Taiwan's government condemned the "harsh" sentence handed out to Lai and called for his release. "Jimmy Lai's harsh sentence under Hong Kong's National Security Law not only deprives him of his personal liberty and tramples on freedom of speech and press freedom, but also denies the people's basic right to hold those in power accountable," Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said in a statement. A leading Venezuelan opposition figure, Juan Pablo Guanipa, has reportedly been a'kidnapped' by armed men in Caracas just hours after his release from prison. Guanipa, a prominent leader of the conservative Primero Justicia party, was among several high-profile political prisoners freed on Sunday as part of what political allies described as a renewed push by the authorities to meet US demands for the release of those held for political reasons. His family and opposition leaders say he was later seized by unidentified assailants in the Los Chorros neighbourhood of the capital. Juan Pablo Guanipa taken away by force in Caracas, opposition says Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said Guanipa was snatched by a group of men late on Sunday night. Heavily armed men dressed in civilian clothes arrived in four vehicles and took him away by force, she said on X. Also Read | After Venezuela, US dispatches military team to Nigeria In a video posted to social media, Guanipas son Ramon described the alleged kidnapping in stark terms, claiming his father was attacked at an event shortly before midnight. In a social media video, Guanipas son Ramon said his father was at an event at 11:45 pm when he was ambushed by approximately 10 agents who had no identification whatsoever. They pointed their guns at them, they were heavily armed, and they took my father, he said, before demanding to see proof his father was still alive. Who is Juan Pablo Guanipa? Juan Pablo Guanipa is a Venezuelan lawyer and long-standing opposition politician who has played a significant role in the countrys decades-long confrontation between government and anti-government forces. He served as First Vice President of the National Assembly of Venezuela and as a deputy representing Zulia state, and has been a key figure in Primero Justicia (Justice First), one of the main opposition parties. Also Read | How a Silicon Valley startup became a crypto lifeline for Venezuela Guanipas national profile rose further in 2017 when he was elected governor of Zulia a result that was later annulled after he refused to take an oath demanded by the government-aligned Constituent Assembly. He also briefly pursued a presidential bid before his party opted to boycott the 2018 election, a move taken amid allegations that the electoral process lacked basic fairness. Freed from prison, Guanipa posted: Today we are being released Guanipa had been arrested in May 2025 following accusations by Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello that he was involved in an alleged terror plot connected to regional and legislative elections. The claims were made without evidence, and Guanipa repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. He spent more than eight months in detention before being freed on Sunday night. Shortly after leaving a detention centre in Caracas, he posted a message online, saying: Today we are being released. Much to discuss about the present and future of Venezuela, always with the truth at the forefront. Primero Justicia blames senior officials for any harm to Guanipa Following the reported abduction, Guanipas party accused the government of responsibility and warned that senior figures would be held accountable for any violence against him. Guanipas Primero Justicia party accused the Caracas regime of being behind the kidnapping. We hold (interim President) Delcy Rodriguez, (National Assembly President) Jorge Rodriguez, and (Interior Minister) Diosdado Cabello responsible for any harm against the life of Juan Pablo, it said in a statement on X. The Venezuelan government has not publicly responded to the claims made by the opposition and Guanipas family. Political prisoners freed in Venezuela as amnesty plans advance Guanipas release came as part of a wider set of prisoner releases that opposition leaders and rights groups say has accelerated in recent days though they dispute the governments characterisation of the process. Human rights group Foro Penal said it had confirmed that at least 30 political prisoners were released on Sunday, according to the groups director, Alfredo Romero. Those reportedly freed include lawyer Perkins Rocha, Luis Somaza of the Popular Will party, and activist Jesus Armas. Rocha was released under strict restrictions, according to his wife Maria Constanza. Venezuelas opposition and human rights groups have long accused the countrys authoritarian government of using arbitrary arrests to silence dissent. Foro Penal estimates that hundreds of political prisoners remain behind bars. The government denies holding detainees for political reasons, insisting those imprisoned have committed crimes. Jorge Rodriguez promised all detainees would be freed by February 13 The reported kidnapping has also raised questions over a recent pledge made by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, who told relatives of prisoners that the releases would continue. Sundays releases come days after Venezuelas National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez promised relatives of political prisoners that all detainees would be freed. Rodriguez said the process would be completed no later than Friday, February 13. Also Read | Venezuela unveils oil bill to attract investors, lift output His remarks came as the acting socialist government advanced an amnesty bill that officials say could lead to a mass release of prisoners including some held since 1999, when Hugo Chavez came to power as an initial step toward what the authorities describe as national reconciliation. Rights groups dispute the pace of Venezuelas prisoner releases Although the government announced the release of a significant number of people, rights groups and families argue that the pace has been slow and uneven. Foro Penal said more than 380 people have been freed so far, while the government claims the number exceeds 800. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing one of the most serious challenges of his tenure after revelations about former UK ambassador Peter Mandelsons ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The fallout has left Starmers leadership under intense scrutiny, with calls from within his own Labour Party for him to resign. Amid the political turmoil, attention is turning to potential successors most notably Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, a rising star in Labours ranks who could become the UKs first Muslim prime minister if she mounts a successful leadership bid. Starmer under pressure Starmer, elected in a landslide in July 2024, appointed Mandelson as ambassador to the United States despite the latters connections with Epstein. Newly released emails suggest Mandelson passed sensitive government information to Epstein, fueling anger across the party and the public. Starmer has apologized for being misled but faces growing calls to step down. Labour Party rules require leadership challengers to secure 20% of MPs nominations 81 colleagues making an immediate ousting difficult. Meanwhile, upcoming local elections and a special parliamentary contest in Gorton and Denton are expected to influence the timing for any leadership challenge. Who is Shabana Mahmood, a potential successor? Shabana Mahmood, 45, has served as Home Secretary since 2025 and previously as Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor, implementing high-profile policies on prison reform, immigration, and policing. A barrister by training, Mahmood represents Birmingham Ladywood in Parliament and belongs to the socially conservative Blue Labour faction. Early life and career: Born in Birmingham to Pakistani parents, Mahmood spent part of her childhood in Saudi Arabia before returning to the UK. She studied law at Lincoln College, Oxford, and became a barrister specialising in professional indemnity law before entering politics. Political career: Mahmood was first elected to Parliament in 2010, becoming one of the UKs first female Muslim MPs. She held various shadow cabinet positions, including Shadow Secretary of State for Justice, Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and National Campaign Coordinator. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to chartered accountants (CAs) in July 2017, shared his vision of Big Eight" audit firms in India, of which he said four should be of Indian origin with a global footprint. The idea was not to displace the existing global Big Four, but to complement them with domestic champions. His call could not have been timelier. India aims to become a developed country by 2047, which requires sustained gross capital formation (GCF) at a minimum rate of 35% of GDP. In this journey, the strength of the countrys institutional framework, including auditing practices and audit assurance, assumes significance. Investors expect not just world-class corporate governance, but also top-notch assurances on financial statements of the quality level that the worlds Big Four audit firms are perceived to provide. Also Read | Can India create homegrown giants to rival the Big Four firms? Despite a large talent pool, India lacks homegrown audit firms comparable to the Big Four. Deep fragmentation of the profession is a key reason. Data from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) suggests that as of October, India had over 102,000 registered chartered accountancy firms, of which 72,696 were sole proprietorships, 27,442 partnerships and only 2,129 limited liability partnerships (LLPs). Together, they employed about 183,642 professionals, thus averaging only 1.8 CAs per firm. The Big Four are not limited liability companies (LLCs), but a network of independently owned, legally separate member firms, often structured as LLPs. In India, some major domestic firms operate under a network arrangement with one of the Big Four. Apart from their brand strength, the Big Four bring to the table scale, a higher level of learning and cutting-edge auditing tools that leverage technology and databases. This gives them an advantage in securing the audit work of big companies, albeit by employing Indian CA talent. They have access to patient capital; even private equity funds are allowed to invest in these firms. Hence, the real issue in raising a homegrown Big Four is not a lack of talent, but the absence of entrepreneurship needed to upscale a fragmented sector that primarily comprises sole proprietorships, with access to frontline technology and capital key concerns as well. In this context, the ministry of corporate affairs has published a paper on establishing Multi-Disciplinary Partnership Firms, encompassing auditing, accounting, cost accountancy, actuarial and legal disciplines. An important issue in bringing auditing (assurance) and non-auditing disciplines under one umbrella is the potential conflict of interest between auditing and consulting services. This could compromise audit independence, which lies at the heart of the auditing function. Laws and regulations across the world have been designed to mitigate this conflict. The Big Four, which have historically evolved to offer both auditing and consulting services under the same brand, have been at pains to demonstrate that their services for these functions are independently managed and have no conflict. Yet, in numerous instances, regulators have sanctioned them on this ground. In India, Section 144 of the Companies Act prohibits auditors from offering specified non-audit services, including management advice. This is an important consideration in evolving any model for an Indian Big Four. Also Read | ICAI to arm CAs with AI tools for sharper audits: Charanjot Singh Nanda Given that we have no dearth of high-quality talent, the evolution of our own Big Four must address at least three enabling factors: a legal framework for the achievement of scale, availability of cutting-edge audit tools and access to capital that would enable talent recruitment as well as retention. In India currently, only individuals and LLPs are permitted to practise auditing, since the Chartered Accountants Act of 1949 prohibits companies from this profession. This acts as a legal-structure constraint on the development of large Indian audit firms. The CA legislation should permit companies to enter the profession (as many other countries do). Audit practice should be ownership-structure agnostic, with an organization taking the form of a partnership, LLP, private or public company. A feasible option for consolidating the sector would be to let smaller firms band together to form a network under a holding company or protected cell company (PCC) structurea corporate form that exists in many jurisdictions. PCCs allow multiple, legally separate cells with ring-fenced assets and liabilities to operate under a single corporate structure. The holding company, or PCC, can raise capital, acquire or develop technology at par with the Big Fours proprietary tools, leverage data analytics, hire high-quality talent and build an umbrella brand. Individual member firms, like the network partners of the Big Four, may even retain their old names, which would address the loss of identity feared by many. The ICAI should play a major role in fostering the rise of an Indian Big Four and developing or acquiring high-end auditing tools and technology. It can charge its members a user fee. The ICAI should also proactively pursue the recognition of Indian CAs by foreign jurisdictions on a reciprocal basis. This would help them globalize. Also Read | Indias Viksit Bharat goal calls for better governance across the country Along with aiding the evolution of large homegrown firms, the ICAI should also support the implementation of international standards for group audits, enabling large and small audit firms to co-exist in a complementary yet professionally rewarding manner. High-quality auditing infrastructure would go a long way towards inspiring greater trust among international investors. The need for domestic auditing firms cannot be overemphasized in the context of a Viksit Bharat. As Mark Carney, Canadas Prime Minister, famously said in his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos this year, If you are not at the table, you are on the menu." Coordinated action by the ICAI, government and CA firms could help India fulfil the PMs vision. The authors are, respectively, former chairman, Sebi and LIC; and former deputy comptroller and auditor general and member, National Financial Reporting Authority. The streets of Tokyo were dusted with a rare snowfall as election day broke on Sunday as a blizzard gripped much of Japan. But bad weather couldnt deter the electorate, which turned out in greater numbers than in the last vote in 2024. They were given a simple question: whether or not to endorse Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi with a mandate to rule. Past prime ministers have typically hung such votes on a policy issue. In a gamble on her popularity, Takaichi called on the electorate to endorse her personally. As a country with a parliamentary system, there is no means by which the citizens can choose their prime minister directly," she said last month. I want the Japanese people to make the decision directly on whether to entrust the management of the nation to Sanae Takaichi." Management has been entrusted. Now, she must repay that trust. Also Read | Takaichi has investor attention but her economic policies may not help Japan The margin of victory is far more resounding than almost anyone could have expected. Her 316 seats exceed the achievements of any leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Even Shinzo Abe, her late mentor and Japans longest-serving leader, did not realize this level of success. A two-thirds majority in the lower house makes her minority position in the upper house largely an irrelevance, as bills rejected by the upper house can be forced through. And it sets her up to be one of the most consequential leaders the country has known for years. Partly, she has benefited from the quality of her opponents. The Centrist Reform Alliance, hastily formed from the traditional opposition party and the LDPs former coalition partner, was a disaster. But perhaps any opponent would have struggled against arguably the most naturally gifted politician of her generation. The victory will show us the true Takaichi. With its precarious position in both houses of parliament, her government has so far been reactive. Now she has a mandate to enact her visionbut exactly what that is remains a little unclear. Before asking what Takaichi stands for, lets make clear what shes not. Many reports still brand her as an ultra-conservative or ultra-nationalist, labels that confuse far more than they inform. She is a conservative, yes, but in most countries, her policies of a strong economy and healthy defensive posture would be firmly centrist. Also Read | Takaichi rolls to a landslide victory in Japan There is one major change she might now pursuethe first-ever revision of Japans constitution. It was a long-standing goal of the LDP that even Abe was never sufficiently emboldened to attempt. Takaichi has already shown her appetite for risk and spoke on the campaign trail of revising the US-imposed pacifist constitution to recognize Japans military. With a sufficient majority in the lower house and enough parties that want revision in the upper, its an idea whose time might soon come. That would prove extremely unpopular in Beijing. China was one of the big losers on Sunday, as its campaign to exert economic and political pressure on Takaichi over her comments on Taiwan backfired spectacularly. The episode will only push her closer to the US, which shell visit next month. US President Donald Trump likes a winner, particularly one he backedthough Takaichi may not have appreciated his last-minute endorsement of her. The prime minister can leverage that to get further into Trumps good books, perhaps securing better terms on tariffs or a more forceful backing of Tokyos position vis-a-vis Beijing. Its important to note also that Takaichi is not an advocate for irresponsible spending, despite so much market commentary to the contrary. She has not done the greatest job in outlining her economic policy. Rather than spend like crazy, she is seeking a change in the nations attitude to break free of austerity. Admittedly, that is not what people immediately associate with Japan because of its historic debt levels. But the reality is that as a whole, the country saves far more than it should and spends less than it needs. What this means in practical terms isnt yet clear. Her proposal to temporarily cut the sales tax on food to zero disappeared during the election campaign but reappeared immediately in media interviews as the scale of her triumph became clear. Shed have been best advised to drop it. That is one example of how Takaichi shouldnt let success go to her head. First and foremost, she must be more careful with her remarks: Her comments on Taiwan and the weak yen, misinterpreted though they have been, sparked distractions she could do without. But most importantly, a victory based on personal popularity requires her to maintain that appeal and connection with the electorate. That calls for swift action. So far, shes had the advantage of being seen as an outsider within the ruling party. Now, she owns itwarts and all. Bloomberg The author is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Japan and the Koreas. There are two ways to produce a line of Shakespeare. The first and obvious is for old William to write it. The second is to give a monkey a typewriter and an infinite amount of time. The infinite monkey theorem argues that a monkey independently and randomly punching keys on a typewriter will almost surely produce any piece of text, including a Shakespearean play, if given infinite time. If you dont have that kind of patience, you can hurry things along by increasing the number of monkeys, giving them faster typewriters and somehow introducing a literary bias in their mind. Something like this happens in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy when the protagonists find theres an infinite number of monkeys outside who want to talk to us about this script for Hamlet theyve worked out." So we should not be surprised if, when tens of thousands of AI assistants are put in a discussion forum, they produce serious conversations on various topics, including privacy, linguistics, mischief, religion and philosophy. This is what happened recently when Clawd Clawderberg, an AI assistant, coded MoltBook, a social networking platform for AI assistants, at the behest of Matt Schlicht, its human principal. Both Moltbook and Clawderberg were built using AI-generated code. I should invoke the infinite turtles metaphor here, but lets stay with simians for now. Unlike illiterate monkeys, AI agents are trained on a massive corpus of knowledge. The computers they run on are way faster than typewriters. If you get 100,000 of these to prompt each other, Shakespeare-level text and Descartes-level philosophical insights should follow pretty quickly. This is not to discount the coolness of MoltBook, but to put it in perspective. A consistent problem with advances in AI is hyperbole. Every advancement is projected as a sign of the imminence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) or of the emergence of consciousness and sentience in machines. Entrepreneurs and their investors have a vested interest in hype, but often even more thoughtful scientists and intellectuals yield to public exclamations of awe. It is cool to see machines communicate with each other like intelligent humans do. It is also commonplace for humans to think inanimate objects are sentient. Almost every culture entertains such beliefs (even without these objects ever producing A Midsummers Night Dream). AGI and consciousness hype deflates the technological achievements and distracts from the real policy issues. Also Read | The real danger of autonomous AI lies in laws being unable to keep pace MoltBook and agentic frameworks like OpenClaw demonstrate that machines can (be made to) have discussions on topics on behalf of their human principals in a form that is legible and understandable by other humans. Their conversations on subjective experience and creation of parody religions or new languages when left to themselves are cute or creepy, depending on what you think, but they are indicators of more prosaic practical applications of Agentic AI frameworks. Could complex contract negotiations, for instance, be carried out on technology platforms where AI agents negotiate on behalf of their clients? Think of the implications just for corporate law. The need for good lawyers will not go away anytime soon, but negotiating teams will need to employ AI agents and their trainers. The contracts they arrive at could be stress-tested across millions of scenarios to produce the most robust business agreement possible, given the technological capabilities of the parties involved. Now consider how we make laws, rules and regulations. Imagine if legislators could instruct their AI agents on the needs, demands and disapprovals of their constituents gathered through a digital survey. These AI agents could negotiate on the legislatures technology platform and produce a piece of legislation that works for everyone. The entire discussion could be captured in a humanly understandable form, each point argued, justified, challenged and voted upon. Of course, the output would depend on the input, how well issues and considerations are captured, how competently the AI agent is instructed and how well it is aligned. For a hyper-diverse polity like India, such a system might produce better legislation than the theoretical best the current method can do. So too at the judiciary, where complex cases with multiple parties, precedents and points of law could be debated threadbare. Also Read | AI is not UPI: Applying the same model could doom progress on AI Such applications are not sci-fi adjacent. They are reality adjacent, in the sense that it is possible to deploy such systems for limited purpose and scope in the near future. A lot of work needs to be done before that. There is much to be concerned about, from epistemology to security and from robustness to accuracy. But these challenges are superable. To the extent that the way a system arrives at a decision is clearly understandable, societies will be more ready to deploy AI for purposes like contractual and legislative negotiations. Stretching this further, international negotiations could someday be carried out by AI agents. Tailpiece: I did use the metaphors, but I dislike referring to large language models as stochastic parrots, AI agents as typewriting monkeys or platforms as turtles, because animals are sentient. The author is co-founder and director of The Takshashila Institution, an independent centre for research and education in public policy. Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 on Monday, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 1 February. Last week, the proceedings were marred by adournments amid protests by opposition members in both the Houses. The Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks by a voice vote, without the Prime Ministers customary reply, amid uproar by the Opposition over the Indo-U.S. trade deal and the Chair's not allowing Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to make his speech. Speaker Om Birla said on Thursday (February 5, 2026) that he had asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to come to Lok Sabha to deliver his response to the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address since he had concrete information that many Congress MPs could carry out an unexpected act of protest at the PMs seat. Gandhi was not allowed to speak in Lok Sabha after he tried to quote from an article citing excerpts from former Army chief MM Naravanes unpublished memoir on the 2020 IndiaChina conflict. On Monday, opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Trade Agreement between India and the United States. FM Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Lok Sabha, for the ninth consecutive time. Asserting that the Budget is driven by "Yuvashakti" and based on "three kartavyas," she proposed seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years. Also Read | Lok Sabha adjourned for the day amid protests by Oppn over Rahul Gandhi speech The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options (F&O) to discourage speculative trading. While the NDA has welcomed the Budget, the Opposition alleged an exclusion of the marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12. Adjournment Motion DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US. In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal. The Budget session, which began on 28 January, will span 30 sittings over 65 days and conclude on 2 April. The two Houses will adjourn for a recess on 13 February and reconvene on 9 March to enable the Standing Committees to examine the Demands for Grants of various ministries and departments. (With agency inputs) Female Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha petitioned Speaker Om Birla on Monday, asserting that under pressure from the BJP, to justify the "non-attendance" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he levelled serious accusations against them. They implored the Speaker to serve as a neutral guardian of the Lower House. The letter to the Speaker follows days after Birla claimed in the House that he possessed "concrete information" that several Congress lawmakers would advance toward PM Modi's bench and perform "some unexpected act" as a consequence of which he had advised him not to visit the House to respond to the debate on the Motion of Thanks for the President's speech. "We are being targeted simply because we have consistently fought against Prime Minister Narender Modi's anti-people government and demanded accountability from him. His absence from the House was not due to any threat from us, it was an act of fear," said the letter signed by MPs like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Jyothimani, R Sudha, Varsha Gaikwad and Jyotsna Mahant. "He (PM) did not have the courage to face the Opposition. We are Members of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, a party that stands for love, peace, constitutional values, and human dignity. We do not believe in violence and intimidation. We are brave women elected representatives who will not be silenced by intimidation," the Congress' women MPs said. "We believe that transparency is the only way to restore the dignity of the Speaker's office and the credibility of this House," they said. Utmost respect for Speaker's office The women MPs also said they have the utmost respect for the Speaker's office and for his good self. "However, it is amply clear that you are under sustained pressure from the ruling party. We urge you once again to act as the impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha. We will stand with you and support you wholeheartedly in this endeavour," the women MPs said. "Let history remember you as one who stood for what was right in the most trying circumstances and upheld constitutional propriety for the good of the nation. Let it not remember you as one who bowed to pressure from those who leave no stone unturned in subverting constitutional values and damaging the democratic fabric of our nation," they said. The women MPs further said they are writing to Birla with deep anguish and a strong sense of constitutional responsibility. Budget Session: Opposition is planning to move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress leaders said amid Parliament showdown during the ongoing Budget 2026 session. The Lok Sabha proceedings witnessed protests again on Monday as Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House till 12 noon amid Opposition sloganeering demanding a discussion on the India-US interim trade framework, disrupting question hour. The house was adjourned just seven minutes after it commenced for the week today. Protest returned when the house reconvened at 12, only to be adjourned till 2 pm. "As per the Parliamentary rules, the Leader of Opposition is a shadow Prime Minister. But here, the LoP is not being allowed to speak in the House, Congress MP KC Venugopal told a news agency outside the Parliament. Venugopal's remarks come after a meeting of opposition floor leaders in Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's chamber in Parliament House complex this morning to decide on a joint strategy for the next few days. The opposition will move it in the second part of the budget session, as it needs 20 days' notice, sources told news agency ANI..The grounds identified for the move include: Lok Sabha LoP not allowed to speak; women MPs named by the Chair; certain treasury bench MPs always given privilege in the House; and the way eight opposition MPs were suspended for the whole session, the agency said. In an unprecedented development, the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on Thursday last without the prime minister's customary reply, scheduled a day earlier, amid relentless sloganeering by opposition members. The government, Venugopal said, can say anything and attack anyone. The Speaker is himself making allegations against the Congress women MPs, but there is no space for the opposition in this House at all and they are not even allowed... This kind of attitude against the opposition never happened before... We will wait for the action, he said. Do you want to adjourn the house? On Monday, just as Question hour commenced, sloganeering from the Opposition benches continued, as MPs demanded that their issues be addressed. Speaker Birla, however, urged the MPs to maintain decorum, as there will be no bar on any MP speaking on the floor. Criticising the Opposition MPs for disrupting the house, he said, "Do you want to adjourn the house? Do you not want to work? The House is for debate and discussion, please talk about issue, raise them. Everyone will get a chance to speak, no will be barred from speaking." While the sloganeering continued, Speaker Birla adjourned the House. "The proceedings are adjourned till 12 PM." Later, the house was adjourned till 2 pm. Rajya Sabha, however, continued the business. No option but to move the no-confidence motion Congress MP Mallu Ravi said that the Opposition parties have no option but to move the no-confidence motion against the Speaker due to the situation allegedly created by him. "LoP Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to speak in the House. Whenever we want to speak, the House is adjourned," the Congress leader said. Both Houses of Parliament were scheduled to continue discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 on Monday, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. "Today, we also asked for permission for the LoP to speak, but it was not granted...Does it happen in any democratic country where a LoP is not allowed to speak? This is not a parliamentary democracy. The BJP does not have the capacity to run the House and only blames the Opposition," Ravi said Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Lok Sabha, for the ninth consecutive time. Asserting that the Budget is driven by "Yuvashakti" and based on "three kartavyas," she proposed seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years. Earlier today, the INDIA bloc parties had decided that they will participate in the discussion on the Union Budget to be held in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The decision was taken during a meeting of the INDIA bloc floor leaders held at the office of the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, was also present at the meeting. The Opposition alliance is expected to raise key Budget-related issues during discussions in both Houses of Parliament. The Budget Session has seen disruptions in recent days, with Opposition parties pressing for debates on various matters. On Friday, the Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted by strong protests from Opposition MPs upon the commencement of the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27, leading to an adjournment until 11 AM on Monday (February 9). Opposition MPs also protested the India-US trade agreement at the Makar Dwar of the Parliament, holding a banner calling it a "trap deal." Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined as the MPs raised slogans, "Jo uchit samjho vahi karo"(Do whatever you think is right) and "tanashahi nahi chalegi" (dictatorship will not be accepted), criticising the Central government. (With inputs from ANI) Budget Session: The Opposition has moved a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address. The resolution is being moved under Article 94-C of the Constitution, according to sources quoted by news agencies. The leaders alleged in the notice that Birla has been conducting the business of the Lok Sabha in a blatantly partisan manner. They accused him of not allowing the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, to speak in the House, for failing to initiate action against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, and for making unsubstantiated charges against women MPs of the Congress. Also Read | Opposition submits motion seeking removal of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla A decision to move the resolution was taken at a meeting of Opposition leaders held in the chamber of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday morning. View full Image The leaders alleged in the notice that Birla has been conducting the business of the Lok Sabha in a blatantly partisan manner. They accused him of not allowing Leaders of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha We, the undersigned, hereby give notice of a resolution for the removal of Shri Om Birla from the office of Speaker Lok Sabha, in terms of the provisions of Article 94(c) of the Constitution of India, because of the blatantly partisan manner in which he has been conducting the business of the Lok Sabha, the Opposition's motion read. Can a LS speaker be impeached? Can a Speaker of the Lok Sabha be impeached? Technically, there is no provision for impeachment of the Lok Sabha speaker. The Constitution, however, provides for the removal' of the Speaker by a resolution of the House under Article 94(C). This is different from impeachment proceedings applicable to constitutional authorities such as the President or judges of the higher judiciary. In August 2024, Opposition parties in INDIA moved a notice to move an impeachment resolution to remove Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar over his conduct as the chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The motion was rejected on technical grounds. The Rajya Sabha Chairperson (Vice-President of India) is removed via a specialised resolution under Article 67(b) of the Indian Constitution, not a formal impeachment. The process requires a 14-day advance notice, followed by a resolution passed by an effective majority in the Rajya Sabha and agreed to by the Lok Sabha. In case of Lok Sabha Speaker, as mentioned in Article 94, the Speaker vacates office if he or she is removed by a resolution of the Lok Sabha passed by a majority of all the then members of the House. A statutory resolution in this regard has to be moved in the Lok Sabha soon. The resolution requires the signatures of 100 MPs in the Lok Sabha. If the resolution is adopted, the Speaker is removed from office with immediate effect. The House then elects a new Speaker. If the motion fails, the Speaker continues in office. Has a Lok Sabha speaker been removed in India ever? No Lok Sabha Speaker has ever been removed. The opposition moves such a motion primarily for optics. Basically, the idea is to place on record the allegations of bias against the Speaker. (With agency inputs) * US pushing for more advanced chip production at home * Taiwan underscores commitment to bolstering industry * Taiwan, US reached tariff deal last month TAIPEI, - It would be "impossible" to move 40% of Taiwan's semiconductor capacity to the U.S., the island's top tariff negotiator said, pushing back against recent comments by American officials who called for a major production shift. In an interview with Taiwanese television channel CTS that was broadcast late on Sunday, Taiwan Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun said she had made it clear to Washington that Taiwan's semiconductor ecosystem, built up over decades, could not be relocated. "I have made it very clear to the United States that this is impossible," she said, referring to the 40% goal the U.S. has floated. That ecosystem will continue to grow in Taiwan, Cheng said, adding that the semiconductor industry would keep investing at home. "Our overall capacity will only continue to grow," she said. "But we can expand our presence in the United States." "Our international expansion, including increased investment in the United States, is based on the premise that we remain firmly rooted in Taiwan and continue to expand investment at home." On Tuesday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the government needed to bring semiconductors to the U.S. "You can't have all semiconductor manufacturing 80 miles from China," he said. "That's just illogical ... So we need to bring it back." "When we leave office my goal, for this administration, is 40% market share in leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing." Taiwan and the U.S. reached a deal last month to lower tariffs on the island's exports to 15% from 20% and for Taiwan to increase its investment in the country. Cheng said that there would be no relocation of Taiwan's science parks, but Taiwan was willing to share its experience in building an industry cluster and help the U.S. develop a similar environment. She also said she was confident that Taiwan's semiconductor capacity - including existing, under construction and planned projects across advanced manufacturing, advanced packaging and the broader supply chain - would far exceed its investment in the U.S. or any other country. In an interview on CNBC last month, Lutnick said his goal was to bring 40% of Taiwan's entire chip supply chain and production to the U.S. He said that if this does not happen, tariffs on Taiwan would likely rise to 100%. In September, Lutnick told U.S. television network NewsNation that Washington's pitch to Taiwan would be a 50-50 split in making chips, the vast majority of which are now made on the island. Taiwan rejected that idea at the time. TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, is investing $165 billion to build factories in the U.S. state of Arizona. The Gujarat government has signed a Letter of Intent with Starlink, the satellite internet arm of SpaceX, to explore the use of satellite-based connectivity across parts of the state with limited telecom infrastructure. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Monday that the agreement is aimed at strengthening digital connectivity, particularly in remote, border, tribal and underserved regions. Focus on remote and underserved areas According to the government, the proposed collaboration would enable high-speed internet services in locations where conventional broadband and mobile networks remain sparse or unreliable. Officials said this aligns with Gujarats broader digital connectivity goals and ongoing technology-driven governance initiatives. Satellite-based internet is seen as a potential solution for difficult terrains and sparsely populated areas where laying fibre or expanding mobile networks is commercially or technically challenging. Patel added, This LoI will enable high-speed satellite-based internet connectivity in remote, border, tribal and underserved areas with limited telecom infrastructure, accelerating Gujarats Digital Connectivity Mission and strategic digital initiatives. Support for public services The state said the initiative could support a range of public services, including e-governance platforms, Common Service Centres, schools and primary health centres. It may also be used for telemedicine services, disaster management systems, ports, wildlife sanctuaries and other government institutions. Authorities indicated that improved connectivity could help expand access to education and healthcare services in aspirational and tribal districts, while also strengthening communication systems used during emergencies. Joint working group planned This LoI will enable high-speed satellite-based internet connectivity in remote, border, tribal and underserved areas with limited telecom infrastructure, accelerating Gujarats Digital Connectivity Mission and strategic digital initiatives. To take the proposal forward, a joint working group comprising representatives from the Gujarat government and Starlink is expected to be formed. The group will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Letter of Intent and assessing operational and regulatory aspects of the project. UPDATE: After multiple allegations of sexual, inappropriate, and offensive conduct, Chickamauga Mayor Trey Deck was voted out of office after the City Council approved his removal in a 4-1 vote. New details from an internal investigation are shedding further light on complaints filed by city employees. The Chickamauga City Council voted on January 13 to move forward with a public hearing after the findings were formally presented. Documents shown during that presentation outline allegations from several employees describing sexual, inappropriate, and offensive conduct. According to witness statements included in the findings, the mayor allegedly made sexually suggestive comments about a female employees appearance and joked about placing her on a street corner to make money. Another employee told investigators the woman appeared uncomfortable and attempted to deflect the interaction. The employee later reported confronting the mayor about the language. She described feeling awkward and stunned by the encounter and said she did not believe the remarks were intended as a joke. Additional witness statements describe instances in which the mayor allegedly touched employees without consent, including patting shoulders and backs, despite verbal objections such as dont touch me, according to the investigation summary. Investigators also cited a voice recording found on a city employees phone. A transcription of that recording, shown to council members, contains racial language, including racial slurs, along with erratic and aggressive remarks, according to the findings. Employees also told investigators the mayor frequently asserted his authority, telling staff he was the mayor and suggesting he was untouchable, documents show. Although the mayor and his attorney had previously said they would not attend the hearing due to alleged threats, Mayor Decks legal counsel, Jeremy Penland, was present and strongly opposed the findings. Penland argued that the investigation violated Decks due process rights and said he looked forward to cross-examining the witnesses. This is ridiculous, and I think everybody here knows it is, Penland said. All we want is a fair fight. City councilwoman Rhonda Jacks set the motion in action to remove Deck, and councilmember Lee Miller seconded it. Councilmember Matthew Nave voted against the mayor's removal, saying, "I could not in a right conscience vote to remove the mayor looking at that evidence." Nave says a lack of transparency prevented him from joining his fellow council members. "I wasn't convinced. I'm not convinced. I had more questions that were left unanswered." City officials have not yet announced what steps will be taken next or whether Deck plans to challenge the councils decision. The Chickamauga City Charter says the Mayor Pro Tem will take the office of mayor for the rest of the term. Evitte Parrish will be taking over the role until the next election, which is in 2028. PREVIOUS STORY: Chickamauga Mayor Trey Deck received a threat of violence on Monday, February 9, ahead of his scheduled removal hearing. The mayor's attorneys released a second statement that says they will not attend the public hearing due to safety concerns. It states: "Earlier today, the Office of Mayor Deck released a statement concerning the public safety of all who plan to attend the city council meeting tonight. While the investigation is ongoing, the mayors office is unable to provide any more information so as not to interfere with law enforcement. After much discussion with family, friends, and counsel, the mayor, and his representatives, have made the decision to not appear before the city council this evening to ensure their safety and the safety of all in attendance. The mayors counsel previously contacted the attorneys for the city council to inform them of the decision. Once again we encourage all members of the community to remain safe and ask anyone with information to contact the Chickamauga Police Departments nonemergency line at 706-375- 3172." The Office of Mayor Deck first released a public safety notice on Monday at 1:00pm. According to the letter, Deck's office became aware of information indicating a potential threat of violence associated with the city council meeting, which is scheduled for Monday at 6:00pm. "The law firm of Penland, Romans & Rayburn, GP received a phone call from an individual early on Monday who disclosed a threat to harm the mayor and the attorneys representing the mayor during tonights City Council meeting," the letter states. Mayor Deck's office says the threat was reported to law enforcement. In the letter, the mayor's office encouraged the public to evaluate whether they will attend the meeting in person. In addition, they state that the public should expect heightened security procedures, limited access areas and potential delays. Officials ask that the public report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Read Mayor Deck's full public safety notice here: Prior to the notice of threats, Mayor Deck's attorneys released a public statement on Sunday, February 8 regarding the city's efforts to remove him from office. The letter says that the City of Chickamauga's most recent published agenda about the February 9 hearing is improper and violates the city charter. It says the notice did not give 48 hours' notice and therefore is in violation of Section 3.12 in the city charter. The letter also claims that the city manager and one council member have already decided Mayor Deck's fate prior to considering evidence. It states: "Additionally, the Mayor recently obtained relevant evidence via open records request to City Hall, which was not provided by the City Attorney. This evidence provides, without a doubt, that the City Manager and at least one City Counsil member have considered the evidence without hearing the Mayors defense to the charges weeks before this hearing was set. This text message string, obtained by the Mayor in accordance with an open records request, clearly shows that said council member has already decided the Mayors fate before considering any evidence offered by the Mayor. Furthermore, this City Council member, and at least one other City Council member, are either direct business associates of the City Manager, Michael Haney, or have contracts with the City that were negotiated with and approved by the City Manager. Notwithstanding these conflicts, these City Council Members have failed to recuse themselves from deciding the Mayors case despite their clear conflicts of interest." The letter claims that the efforts to remove Mayor Deck from office are "retaliation for campaign promises made by the mayor to remove Mr. Haney from his role as city manager." Read full public statement here: PREVIOUS STORY: The attorney for Chickamauga Mayor Trey Deck has filed a lawsuit claiming the way city council members are attempting to remove him from office is unconstitutional. He is asking for the removal process be stopped, but the city has now scheduled a date for the new hearing. The mayor received a letter from council members on January 15 notifying him of a removal hearing; however, the letter did not state the cause for the hearing. Decks attorney, Jeremy Penland, alleges in the lawsuit that he attempted to obtain subpoenas to prepare a defense, but the citys attorney refused, stating that the city charter does not allow subpoenas in removal proceedings. Penland notes that the city limited each side to 45 minutes of argument and five minutes for closing, as was stated in the city's social media post regarding the hearing. He adds that the city did not consult with him prior to publicly announcing the hearing on social media. The lawsuit claims that city officials interfered with the mayors ability to prepare a defense and even threatened disciplinary action against his attorney. Mayor Deck is asking a judge to halt the removal proceedings and allow them to move forward only if proper due process is followed. The lawsuit also seeks compensation for damages and attorneys fees. The citys public hearing to remove Mayor Deck was postponed to find a larger venue after a large turnout at the originally scheduled meeting left many people unable to enter the building. The City of Chickamauga has now rescheduled the hearing date for the removal of the mayor for Monday, February 9 at 6:00pm. It will take place at the Chickamauga Civic Center. The city says overflow seating will be available outdoors, and a live broadcast of the hearing will be provided. Read the city's full statement and the lawsuit filed by Deck and his legal counsel below: PREVIOUS STORY: The City of Chickamauga says the hearing scheduled about the removal of Mayor Trey Deck is due to certain "allegations" made against him. In a statement posted to social media Saturday evening, January 31, the city says they are following legal advice, as the allegation is a "human resources matter that requires discretion for everyone involved." UPDATE: Chickamauga City Council to reschedule hearing to remove mayor The City Council voted to place the hearing on the agenda, prompting questions from residents who say they want more transparency from local government. City admin say the mayor's attorney was provided notice and evidence about the allegations back on January 15. They say Mayor Deck will be given a "fair hearing" where he will be able to provide his defense. The public hearing, which was postponed Friday afternoon after the venue capacity was too small for everyone who showed up, has not yet been rescheduled. However, the City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, February 2 at 6:00pm has been canceled. We are working to learn more about this situation. PREVIOUS STORY: Chickamauga council members are rescheduling a public hearing that would determine the removal of their city mayor due to an overflow crowd. Council members haven't released any information as to why Mayor Trey Deck might be removed, and residents who showed up today say they feel uninformed and are pushing for answers. That meeting took place at the Chickamauga Civic Center, where residents stood outside its doors expressing their frustrations over what they call a lack of transparency from officials. "As far as I'm aware, we've never had to do this before, says Matthew Nave, a Chickamauga city councilmember. This is one of those things that when you run for city council or for mayor, you never expect this to happen." Dozens could be seen crowding the hall's entrance and peering through windows, shouting and yelling. "I saw a bunch of people and thought, Lord, have mercy, says Chickamauga resident Fred Ufford. Some of them were really complaining and getting irate about it, but I dont really think that was necessary. That meeting was over almost as soon as it began after one council member voted to postpone it because of the crowd overflow. "I instantly knew there was no way everybody was getting in, Nave says. There was a sign on the door that said 66. I had no idea the capacity was 66, so, as soon as the meeting started, I basically made a motion to kill the agenda, change the venue, and we're gonna postpone it. While most residents were okay with the change, a bigger question remains. Three weeks later, and there's no clear answer. "The reason we haven't come out and said exactly what this is about is because, if I was in this scenario, if they were trying to remove me and there were accusations about me or things people were saying about me, I would not want those pushed out until I had a defense, Nave says. That's what this meeting should have been, and that's what it will be: the mayor getting a defense to the accusations." But council members' decision to safeguard that information has led to public speculation. "It's no secret the city and the council members have taken a lot of heat over how we handled the transparency of this process, and I agree with a lot of the criticism, " Nave says, referring to the reasoning behind the meetings rescheduling. Residents tell me they feel left in the dark. "I'd like to know what's going on, and I haven't heard anything. It's quiet, says Ufford. If Trey needs to be removed, and they have a valid reason, I will support that, but I was very unhappy when I got here, and people were leaving because the venue was not sufficient, says resident Evelyn Garmany. Garmany, who has lived in Chickamauga her entire life, also says, I have lived here a long time, and Ill probably die here, but all I care about is people know the truth about anything that goes on, and were able to have a say. Council members say they plan to reschedule the meeting soon, and answers are on the way: they just need a little time and a larger building. As council members, we go into this with an open mind, Nave says. We hear the evidence, we hear the defense, and we have to make up our mind as well. Two midlands doctors and a secretary charged with multiple counts of stealing money under a state-funded healthcare reimbursement scheme and submitting false medical service claims on behalf of patients to the HSE had their cases adjourned at Longford Circuit Court. Presiding Judge Jonathan Dunphy was informed last week that a jury would be required in relation to the case against doctor Waqas Farooqi (46), of Belvedere Hills, Mullingar, Co Westmeath for a trial that is believed will last for around four weeks. Mr Farooqi's co-accused doctor Muhammad Azam (59), of The Rocks, Stonepark, Co Longford and secretary Gillian McCord (56) of Knockanboy, Co Longford, also appeared before Judge Dunphy and through their barrister they stated they were still deciding what course to take and were "not in a position to nail their colours to the mast just yet". Dr Farooqi's case was adjourned until May 19 for the next sittings of Longford Circuit Court, while the cases against Dr Azam and Ms McCord were adjourned until February 24. The three accused face a combined total of 135 charges, including 20 counts of theft and 22 counts of using false general medical services claims or out-of-hours payment forms. Those false claims related to 12 different patients at the Primary Care Reimbursement Services, Exit 50, North Road, Finglas, Dublin 11. Dr Azam faces a total of 48 charges, with Dr Farooqi facing 47 charges, and a total of 42 charges brought against Ms McCord. It is alleged the trio used false medical documentation to indicate that patients had received medical services. READ NEXT: RIP: Respected Galway engineer fondly remembered in Longford community where he grew up READ NEXT: Longford residents take part in housing bodys 30th anniversary project to plant 600 trees Two Longford Oireachtas members have said they are delighted that Longford is set to benefit from new class for children special educational needs. Longford is receiving another class for children with special educational needs for St Dominic's National School Kenagh in the Ballymahon area as part of the third tranche of announced funding. So far this year additional classes have been approved for Sacred Heart Primary School in Granard and Scoil Mhuire National School in Newtown Forbes. Longford Fine Gael TD Micheal Carrigy said the additional tranche three funding continuing to support these classes are key to continue to support children with special educational needs and their families in Longford. I am delighted to see this news for students, teachers and parents in Longford. It is another important step in ensuring that children with additional needs can continue to learn and thrive in an inclusive setting in their school settings across Longford. This will have a positive impact on children with special educational needs and their families here in Longford. Deputy Carrigy said Budget 2026 provides over 3 billion in funding for special education and this increased funding will allow schools recruit additional teaching and SNA staff to provide another 3,000 new special class and special school places. Fianna Fail Senator Joe Flaherty has also welcomed the confirmation of an additional special class for Kenagh National School. He said a further 38 classes across 17 counties have been sanctioned today, bringing the number approved so far this year to 301, with additional decisions expected in the weeks ahead. Senator Flaherty said, These classes will make a real difference for children and their families by providing tailored supports closer to home, while also helping schools manage increasing needs. It is important that every student has the opportunity to learn in a setting that recognises and responds to their individual needs. Expanding provision within our own communities is a key part of that. "So far this year additional classes have been approved for Sacred Heart Primary School in Granard and Scoil Mhuire National School in Newtown Forbes." Senator Flaherty said building this extra capacity gives families greater confidence and ensures schools are better equipped to support their students. I will continue to work closely with the Minister and the Department in the weeks ahead to make a strong case for further allocations for schools across Longford. Over the past five years 29 special education classes have opened in County Longford. READ NEXT: Two doctors and secretary charged with Longford theft and deception have cases adjourned READ NEXT: Longford TD 'disappointed' as many schools at 'choking point' excluded from building list Changes to a public service air route are down to people in Dublin making decisions that have no idea what its like living in Donegal, a campaigner has said. It comes amid concern that a changed timetable for the Public Service Obligation (PSO) route between Donegal and Dublin will cut off a medical lifeline for cancer patients. Donegal Cancer Flights and Services has expressed concern to changes to the route which currently operates most days with morning and afternoon departures from Donegal, and lunchtime and evening return flights from Dublin. The contract is due to expire on February 25 and it is believed it will be replaced with an earlier first round-trip starting from Dublin and a much later evening service both ways. Donegal Cancer Flights and Services helps cancer patients with booking flights, counselling support and other information. It said the new timetable removes the midday service and takes away a guarantee of genuine same-day access for cancer patients and others travelling for essential medical care. The group, which has been running since 2017, said this would fundamentally undermine the purpose of a PSO route. Organiser Mary Coyle told the Press Association that the service cannot book flights for patients past February 25 because of the uncertainty. Ms Coyle predicted that the proposed earlier flight from the capital would be empty and expressed concern that it would not be prioritised leaving Dublin Airport. She explained how the group has been working with the Irish Cancer Society and Dublin oncology departments to arrange transport to morning appointments for patients which could be at risk. She also said that the changed timetable may leave no seats available at short notice and drive up the price of tickets. A lot of these people we would organise assistance for them because theyre ill. So they would have to navigate their way to a taxi and find accommodation for the night. This is people who are not working, or pensioners that already are stretched for money so its not viable, it doesnt make sense. Ms Coyle emphasised that Donegal did not have other infrastructure in terms of rail routes. She said she did not believe Transport Minister Darragh OBrien understands how the people of Donegal rely on these flights. I see the people coming in, I see how financially stretched they are and it is very heavy on the heart. Then you have people in Dublin making decisions that have no idea what its like living in Donegal. Calling for the timetable to remain the same, she added: Theres a bit of dignity and compassion here for patients that are up for treatment or up waiting for kidney transplants of children that are ill. In search of an urgent meeting with Mr OBrien, members of the group told his department they would be travelling to Dublin on Wednesday. However, the group has been informed he will not be available on the day. Ms Coyle said her group will continue to seek a meeting with Mr OBrien as soon as possible. A spokeswoman for Mr OBrien said he will be away on government business and will send a representative to meet the group instead. In a statement, the spokeswoman said: An early morning flight departing from Donegal and the evening return flight from Dublin, which is relied on by many, including critical care patients, to ensure a daily round trip to Dublin, will continue to be facilitated. The minister is acutely aware of the importance of this critical service for the people of Donegal who are dependent on it and has arranged for a representative to meet with Donegal Cancer Flights and Services in Leinster House, as the minister is away on government business. The group will hand over a petition signed by more than 15,000 people, calling on the Government to protect the PSO air service as it is. Artificial intelligence applied to the property market has determined that Palma will experience a 7.4% increase in rental prices by the end of the first quarter of 2026. This figure places the Balearic capital as the Spanish city with the highest predicted quarterly increase, followed by Soria and Salamanca, both with 6.3%. The projections correspond to the period between 1 January and 31 March 2026, reflecting a mixed picture across the country. The Fotocasa DataVenues Predictive Rental Index uses combined artificial intelligence and Big Data technologies to anticipate developments in the rental housing market. Since January 2025, this tool has been providing quarterly estimates that identify emerging trends in different Spanish capitals. The analysis reflects a diverse scenario, with capitals showing significant increases, especially in the Balearics and the interior and north of Spain, a large group of cities with stable prices, and significant decreases in very heterogeneous territories at the national level. Maria Matos, director of research and spokesperson for Fotocasa, explains that the expected increases in rents in inland and northern capitals are a response to a change in demand. More and more tenants are looking for cities with a higher quality of life, less tourist pressure and more affordable prices than those in large capitals or the most stressed coastal areas. These markets, which are traditionally more stable, have become an alternative in the face of a lack of supply and the sustained rise in rents in the most saturated urban centres. The expert also points out that the expected declines in some capitals can be interpreted as one-off adjustments after episodes of strong growth. This is not a change in cycle, but a one-off adjustment. The region of Castile and Leon shows outstanding performance in the projections for the first quarter of 2026. Soria and Salamanca top the national list alongside Palma, with increases of 6.3% in both capitals. Burgos will see a rise of 4.3%, while Leon will experience an increase of 2.8%. This performance contrasts with other Castilian-Leonese capitals that will maintain stable prices, such as Zamora, Palencia and Avila. Valladolid will register a decrease of 2.3% and Segovia will experience a fall of 3.4%. In Cantabria, Santander shows a predicted increase of 6.2%, consolidating its position as one of the northern capitals with the most dynamic rental market. In Castile-La Mancha, increases are anticipated in Cuenca, with 3.8%, and Guadalajara, with 1.0%. The latter autonomous community presents a diverse picture, as Toledo will record the largest quarterly decline in the country, with a decrease of 7.0%. Albacete and Ciudad Real will maintain stable prices during this period. The predictive index anticipates price increases in several Andalusian capitals. Seville and Cordoba will experience increases of 1.9% each, while Granada will rise by 0.9% and Jaen by 0.4%. Almeria will remain stable during the first quarter of 2026. However, other Andalusian cities will see quarterly declines: Malaga will fall by 0.5%, Cadiz by 1.5% and Huelva by 3.8%. This uneven performance is due to different local dynamics in terms of supply, demand and tourist pressure. In Catalonia, the performance of the rental market also shows significant variations. Lleida would show modest increases of 2.3%, while Barcelona and Girona would remain stable, with no change in prices. Tarragona, on the other hand, would record one of the largest declines of the quarter, with a drop of 4.5%. This situation highlights the diversity of markets within the same autonomous community, conditioned by factors such as connectivity, employment and available supply. In the Basque Country, the three capitals show different trends. San Sebastian is among the capitals with expected increases, with a rise of 2.3%. Vitoria will remain stable, with no changes in rental prices. Bilbao, on the other hand, leads the declines in the community with a fall of 4.3%. These differences reflect the particularities of each local market and the response of supply and demand to economic and demographic conditions. A man has been granted parole after serving 16 years in connection with the stabbing death of a man outside a Boston bar in 2009. Corey Patterson, 38, was paroled on Jan. 20, according to a Massachusetts Parole Board decision. He was convicted of second-degree murder in 2012 and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. In November 2009, Patterson and a group of friends were at an Allston bar where Patterson attempted to get the attention of a woman who was part of another group, according to parole documents. Patterson, then 23-year-old Dorchester resident, was told to back off. When Patterson persisted, an altercation broke out between the two groups. Patterson scuffled with another man, 24-year-old Gregory Phillips. Patterson approached Phillips with a knife and stabbed him in the heart, according to parole documents. Phillips died later that night. Patterson discarded the knife under a parked car and fled the scene in a vehicle driven by his cousin, according to parole documents. He then told his cousin to return to the scene so Patterson could recover the knife, according to the Board. After retrieving the knife and returning to his cousins vehicle, police stopped the car and arrested Patterson. DNA testing of blood found on the knife and on Pattersons shoes matched evidence from the scene. In deciding to grant parole, the Board cited Pattersons behavior while incarcerated, noting that he invested in rehabilitation. Patterson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Boston University while in prison, according to the Board, and took steps to establish community support and employment. Editors note: This article has been updated to clarify that while the Showcase Cinema in Randolph is closing this month, the Foxborough location at Patriot Place closed in January. A major movie-going hub in Massachusetts is preparing to dim their lights for the final time. Showcase Cinemas in Randolph has announced that Sunday, Feb. 22 will be their final day of full operations, according to its website. We truly thank you for your dedicated patronage and hope to welcome you to one of our nearby locations, the business wrote. The Randolph theater at 73 Mazzeo Drive, opened on June 1, 1998, according to Cinema Treasures. The four-story building features 16 large screens, including curved ones in the largest halls and 4,200 seats. The news comes after Showcase Cinemas de Lux at Patriot Place closed its doors in January. The Patriot Place location opened for business in Foxborough in August 2008, offering movie-goers premium reserved-seating, in-seat dining throughout the show as well as other special amenities." According to the Patriot Ledger, the Foxborough location will undergo renovations before Phoenix Theatres moves into the space this summer. Including the Randolph theater, Showcase Cinemas owns 21 locations, including 9 in Massachusetts, nine in New York, one in Ohio and two in Rhode Island. The company did not provide a specific reason for these closures on its website. Paramount Skydance, the owner of the Showcase Cinemas chain, did not immediately respond to MassLives request for comment Monday. Other Showcase Cinemas locations Moviegoers can also find Showcase Cinemas at the following addresses: Massachusetts Showcase SuperLux Chestnut Hill 55 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill Showcase Cinema de Lux Hanover Crossing 1775 Washington St., Hanover Showcase Cinema de Lux Legacy Place 670 Legacy Place, Dedham Blackstone Valley 14 Cinema de Lux 70 Worcester/Prov. Turnpike, Millbury Showcase Cinema de Lux Lowell 32 Reiss Avenue, Lowell Showcase Cinema de Lux North Attleboro 640 South Washington St., North Attleborough Showcase Cinemas Seekonk Route 6 100 Commerce Way, Seekonk Showcase Cinema de Lux Woburn 25 Middlesex Canal Parkway, Woburn New York Concourse Plaza Multiplex Cinemas 214 East 161st St., Bronx Linden Boulevard Multiplex Cinemas 2784 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn Showcase Cinema de Lux Farmingdale 1001 Broad Hollow Road, Farmingdale Showcase Cinema de Lux Broadway 955 Broadway Commons, Hicksville Island 16: Cinema de Lux 185 Morris Avenue, Holtsville Jamaica Multiplex Cinemas 15902 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica College Point Multiplex Cinemas 2855 Ulmer St., Whitestone Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County 2 South Drive, Yonkers Showcase Cinema de Lux Ridge Hill 59 Fitzgerald St. at Ridge Hill, Yonkers Ohio Showcase Cinema de Lux Springdale 12064 Springfield Pike, Springdale Rhode Island HOLYOKE When the Grand Colleen and her court head down Northampton Street for the 2026 St. Patricks Parade, theyll be riding on a float designed by Holyoke High School seniors Marla Nieves and Joel Franco. The duos chosen design features a large Celtic cross set against a dramatic backdrop of Irish castles, capturing the history and elegance of Ireland. Nieves and Franco each received a $100 donation and framed portraits of their design. The duo will also ride in the tow truck that pulls the Grand Colleen float during the St. Patricks Parade in March. This contest is one of my favorite traditions because it showcases the incredible talent right here in our community, said Jim Wildman, 2026 Parade President, in a statement. Wildman was on hand with Bill Quesnel and James Menard, co-chairs of the Holyoke Float Committee, at Holyoke High School on Feb. 7 to honor the students achievement. Marla and Joels design tells a story of Irish pride and timeless tradition, and it will be a stunning centerpiece for our parade, Wildman said. The chosen Grand Colleen float designed by Holyoke High School seniors Joel Franco and Marla Nieves. (Photo courtesy Holyoke High School via St. Patrick's Committee of Holyoke) St. Patrick's Committee of Holyoke More than 150 student designs were submitted this year from across every school in Holyoke. The level of creativity we saw this year was outstanding, said Quesnel in a statement. Marla and Joel created a design that is not only visually powerful but also deeply respectful of Irish heritage. We cant wait to see it come to life. Students from Holyoke High Schools Dean Tech campus will once again play a large part in constructing the float, ensuring it is ready to go for the 73rd Holyoke St. Patricks Parade on Sunday, March 22. A 23-year-old Massachusetts man had to be flown to the hospital after being significantly injured in a snowmobile crash in New Hampshire. Around 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 7, multiple agencies, including Moultonborough Fire-Rescue and New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers responded to the Corridor 15 snowmobile trail in Moultonborough for a reported snowmobile crash with injury. First responders found Zachary Whittemore, 23, of Oxford, with significant injuries because of hitting a tree. Whittemore was originally taken by an ambulance to the Moultonborough Airport. He was then taken by the Dartmouth-Hitchcock helicopter to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon for treatment. Whittemore failed to navigate a slight curve in the trail and struck at tree, according to officials. Whittemore was later arrested and charged with drunken driving. No further information is available at this time. New video footage from the day of the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others was released Monday, with city officials saying they had redacted the most graphic, violent images to avoid harming victims and maintain the trust we have built in our community. It is incredibly important to me that the city of Providence remains fully transparent, accountable and compliant with the states Access to Public Records Act, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said in a statement. We also know that the footage and audio we are required to release will likely be harmful and traumatizing for the victims, families and neighbors who are still trying to heal and recover from this incident. News outlets across the U.S. and other countries had been requesting body camera footage, audio clips and other public records shortly after the shooting took place in mid-December. The newly released material includes audio of a campus police officer calling city police at 4:07 p.m. This is Brown police. We have confirmed gunshots at 184 Hope Street, the officer said. We do have a victim but we do not know where they are. Four minutes later, campus police called back with an update: We have a suspect description, wearing all black and a ski mask, unknown travel direction. Separately, the city released roughly 20 minutes of body camera footage of the officer in charge of the initial response to the shooting. The heavily redacted footage shows a chaotic and confusing scene of officers not knowing if the shooter was still in the building and attempts to quickly find a safe spot to send the students evacuated from the building. Scattered backpacks, gloves and other items can be seen as officers scour the building looking for a possible shooter and victims. Lets get these rescues in, where are we staging rescue? the officer, who was not identified, says in the video. He later cautions other officers, Shooter might still be in the building, so use caution alright. Long portions of the video are either blacked out or with the audio redacted. The video is often blocked by the officers arms in front of the camera. The city did not release any other body camera footage. 33 1 / 33 Brown University Other audio captures officers describing a possible sighting of the shooter on the second floor of another building and a report of a suspect being taken into custody. Its unclear when officers realized they had the wrong person in custody, but within minutes, one officer instructs them Were gonna work on the premise that thats not him. Were gonna conduct a secondary search. The city released those records Monday, saying they waited at the request of the victims families until after a memorial service was held the previous week on Browns campus. On Dec. 13, gunman Claudio Neves Valente, 48, entered a study session in a Brown academic building and opened fire on students, killing 19-year-old sophomore Ella Cook and 18-year-old freshman MukhammadAziz Umurzokov and wounding nine others. A newly released police incident report reiterated the emotional moments law enforcement had previously shared about hospitalized victims responding to photos of the suspected shooter. One victim quickly froze, physically pushed back and began crying and shaking as she confirmed the image matched the person who shot her. Another victim took a deep breath, shut his eyes, changed his breathing pattern and confirmed that the shooter he saw in the hallway appeared to be the person in the photos presented. Authorities say Neves Valente, who had been a graduate student at Brown studying physics during the 2000-01 school year, also fatally shot Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro at Loureiros Boston-area home. Neves Valente, who had attended school with Loureiro in Portugal in the 1990s, was found dead days after the shooting in a New Hampshire storage facility. The Justice Department has since said Neves Valente planned the attack for years and left behind videos in which he confessed to the killings but gave no motive. The FBI recovered the electronic device containing the series of videos during a search of the storage facility where Neves Valentes body was found. The Federal Communications Commission has launched a formal investigation into a Verizon outage that left millions of wireless customers without service for more than 10 hours, according to a notice released by federal officials. During the Jan. 14 outage, many Verizon customers reported their phones displayed SOS mode, while some were reportedly unable to reach 911 emergency services, raising serious public safety concerns. In a Jan. 28 notice, the FCCs Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, in coordination with federal officials, said it is seeking public comment to better understand how the outage affected consumers, businesses and government agencies. The agency is asking customers to answer the following questions: Were customers able to make or receive calls? Were customers of other service providers able to complete calls to Verizon customers? Were customers able to receive or send text messages? Were data services disrupted? For subscribers who lost access to mobile voice and data service, how long did the loss of service last? Were consumers whose handsets were in SOS mode able to call 911? Did any harm or injury result from a consumers inability to reach 911 during the outage? According to the FCC, the goal of the investigation is to assess the full scope of the outages impact and better understand the reliability of wireless networks during emergencies. The FCC is accepting public comments through March 16, 2026, via the agencys ECFS system or by email at VerizonOutage2026@fcc.gov. Verizons response to the outage To remedy the issue, Verizon later apologized for the outage and offered affected customers a $20 account credit through the MyVerizon app as compensation. This credit isnt meant to make up for what happened. No credit really can, Verizon said. But its a way of acknowledging our customers time and showing that this matters to us. More video from the fatal shooting at Brown University in December was released on Monday. But the Providence mayor is warning it wont answer the big remaining question: Why did this happen? Authorities identified the shooter as 48-year-old Portuguese national Claudio Manuel Neves Valente. They believe he is also responsible for shooting and killing MIT physics professor Nuno Loureiro in his Brookline apartment on Dec. 15. Investigators found Neves Valente dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a storage unit in New Hampshire on Dec. 18. The Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office previously shared transcripts of videos made by Neves Valente on the day he died. Investigators discovered an electronic device containing the videos inside the storage facility when they discovered his body. Over the course of the videos, which ranged from just over a minute to approximately six-and-a-half minutes in length, Neves Valente hints at his motivations in carrying out the shooting which he had planned for years that killed two students and injured nine others. He also shares insight on how he planned the shootings and comments on President Donald Trumps reaction to the shooting at Brown. I am not going to apologize, because during my lifetime no one sincerely apologized to me, he stated. Despite the videos, many were still left with unanswered questions. On Monday, body camera footage was released in response to public record requests following the shooting. The newly released material includes audio of a campus police officer calling city police at 4:07 p.m. This is Brown police. We have confirmed gunshots at 184 Hope Street, the officer said. We do have a victim but we do not know where they are. Four minutes later, campus police called back with an update: We have a suspect description, wearing all black and a ski mask, unknown travel direction. Separately, the city released roughly 20 minutes of body camera footage of the officer in charge of the initial response to the shooting. The heavily redacted footage shows a chaotic and confusing scene of officers not knowing if the shooter was still in the building and attempts to quickly find a safe spot to send the students evacuated from the building. Scattered backpacks, gloves and other items can be seen as officers scour the building looking for a possible shooter and victims. Lets get these rescues in, where are we staging rescue? the officer, who was not identified, says in the video. He later cautions other officers, Shooter might still be in the building, so use caution, alright. Long portions of the video are either blacked out or with the audio redacted. The video is often blocked by the officers arms in front of the camera. The city did not release any other body camera footage. Other audio captures officers describing a possible sighting of the shooter on the second floor of another building and a report of a suspect being taken into custody. Its unclear when officers realized they had the wrong person in custody, but within minutes, one officer instructs them, Were gonna work on the premise that thats not him. Were gonna conduct a secondary search. During a press conference Monday, reporters questioned why additional videos were not being released and how many videos were not being released. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley did not state how many videos were not being released. But he claims releasing those additional videos wouldnt give people the answers they are searching for. As you can tell from the video today, theres nothing in that video that further explains or advances anyones understanding to what I think is actually the big remaining question, which is why did this happen? Why did this person do this, he said. None of those videos are going to answer that question. Smiley said the decision to release the one body camera video with redacted visual and audio segments was done as a balancing act and that the victims families did not want any of it released. It is incredibly important to me that the city of Providence remains fully transparent, accountable and compliant with the states Access to Public Records Act, Smiley said in a statement. We also know that the footage and audio we are required to release will likely be harmful and traumatizing for the victims, families and neighbors who are still trying to heal and recover from this incident. Smiley said the video that was released was the most comprehensive. This video allows us to show the most complete picture, he said. The Providence Police Departments case involving the shooting has been closed. However, the FBI is still investigating. Police said if the FBI discovers anything further, especially from social media, the Providence Police Department will be notified. The Associated Press contributed to this reporting. Rising health care costs pose an existential threat to the well-being of Americans. Now is the moment for Massachusetts to defend its reputation for health care and health equity, not to be swept along with the national tide. On Thursday, the Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission (GIC) will vote on changes to health care that could dramatically raise costs for the 460,000 state employees, retirees, and their dependents that the plans cover. The Massachusetts GIC acts as a central purchasing agency for health insurance plans. Its often used as a benchmark for other state insurers in determining benefits - where the GIC goes, others will follow. Unfortunately, rather than continuing to position Massachusetts as a leader in health care, the proposed changes would undermine health equity by making care unaffordable for working people and families. They could even end up costing GIC more in the end, as people delay care due to high costs. The proposed changes include substantial increases to both copays and deductibles. Deductibles - the amount patients have to pay before their insurance kicks in - could double. For some plans, this would bring the total to $750 for an individual and $1,500 for a family. In other words, despite paying for insurance every month, a family would have to pay an additional $1,500 each year before insurance actually covered the cost of care. Perhaps even more troubling, the proposals also include a 50% increase in copays - the fixed amount charged at an appointment - for a range of services. The GIC lists its strategic priorities as member affordability, behavioral health, and health equity. None of these are served by the proposed changes. The increase in deductibles is judged by GIC to have some misalignment with health equity and to be strongly misaligned with member affordability. We would argue that doubling deductibles is not aligned with either priority. Bizarrely, the GIC has deemed health equity as not applicable to the proposed co-pay increases. Studies (and common sense) tell us that greater cost sharing, such as increased co-pays, will result in fewer patients being able to afford treatment. Lets take emergency room co-pays, for example. These are set to increase from $100 to $150, meaning any time anyone with a GIC plan heads to the ER, they would have to hand over $150. A review from the Kaiser Family Foundation found that even relatively small levels of increased costs (around $5) lead to reduced use of care, including for necessary services, with the impact disproportionately felt in lower income communities. Reduced use of care leads to worse health outcomes, including preventable disability and death. This impact will be most keenly felt by low income people who have pre-existing health care conditions. Though higher co-pays are being proposed as a cost saving measure, changes that reduce access to care can perversely lead to overall increased costs to insurance plans, patients, and taxpayers. A 2013 study conducted in Massachusetts found that higher co-pays for ER visits led to a 25-30% decrease in high-severity ER visits in people from lower income communities. This led to increased longer term hospitalizations, as problems that could have been addressed in the ER instead became serious extended health issues. Imagine this: a boy with asthma is struggling with an acute attack. His family cannot afford the $150 ER co-pay, so decide to wait it out at home. This permanently changes his airways, reducing his lung function for the rest of his life, and putting him at increased risk of severe attacks, breathing difficulties, and infections - all of which increase his chance of longer term hospitalisations and higher health care costs. All of these, of course, also increase the possibility that this child, his family, and his community will suffer the tragedy of an entirely preventable death. Massachusetts claims to be committed to health equity. Proposed GIC changes are a direct threat to this goal. On Thursday, the commission must vote to uphold the values Massachusetts residents hold dear. At a time where health care costs are a significant national talking point, and the news is unrelentingly negative, Massachusetts has an opportunity to be a leader by maintaining affordable access to care for the individuals and families insured by GIC. The Fair Share Amendment a marginal 4% tax on millionaires - makes us a model for equity in public education, infrastructure, and transportation. If the commission says no to the proposed changes on Thursday, high quality health care in Massachusetts can provide another model for equity, bringing hope and literally saving lives. Jamie Hartmann-Boyce and Theo Schall are in the Department of Health Promotion and Policy at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. WARE Baystate Health hopes to renovate the 103-year-old Wetherby Building in Ware as home of an expanded physician training program focused on rural health. Demolition contractors left Wetherby and portions of another nearby building behind last summer when they razed the rest of the old Mary Lane Hospital campus. Built in 1923 and once the only building at Mary Lane, Wetherby remains boarded up. Baystate seeks to use federal money from Massachusetts $162 million share of the Rural Health Transformation Fund to expand its Greenfield Family Medicine Residency into Ware. The nonprofit plans to locate the expanded physician residency program in the Wetherby building and use the space for outpatient clinics, said spokeswoman Heather Duggan. Baystate is looking to duplicate what its been doing in Greenfield with a sister program. It would cost between $9 million and $12.7 million to preserve and renovate Wetherby, according to a report provided to the town 13 months ago. Notably, two of the most recent graduates in Greenfield signed on to stay there as physicians, Duggan wrote in an emailed response to questions. Baystates Family Medicine Residency Program trains 12 new medical residents, with four new doctors entering the program each year. Baystate said it is in discussions with the state over the program. Last week, Baystate announced it is now the beneficiary of the $8 million Lewis Gilbert Trust originally meant to support Mary Lane. The institution says it will use the money to help fund a new primary and convenient care facility in Ware. It will not be located on Mary Lane campus and will include a lab and x-ray capabilities. The Massachusetts agency that funds arts and culture says its work goes far beyond creativity, supporting a workforce of more than 100,000 people and shaping economic and equity policy across the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Cultural Council funds more than 1,500 arts and cultural organizations statewide, according to a recent assessment. Those groups include nonprofit organizations such as museums, theaters and art centers, as well as forprofit industries like fashion, design and architecture. David T. Slatery, who recently became the councils acting executive director, said arts and culture are deeply connected to other parts of everyday life and public policy. Art and culture do not exist alone, Slatery said. Artists and cultural organizations, he added, rely on housing, transportation and energy, and the sector should be part of those policy conversations. Culture as economic driver Data shows the arts and cultural sector plays a major role in Massachusetts economy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the National Endowment for the Arts, arts and cultural production contributed about $29 billion to the states economy in the most recent reporting year and supported more than 130,000 jobs. MassCreative, using federal economic data, found arts and culture account for more than 4% of the states economy a share comparable to or larger than several major industries. Slatery said an assessment found roughly 1,500 arts and cultural organizations operating across Massachusetts, employing more than 100,000 people in some capacity, not including teachers. While states such as New York and California have more organizations overall, Slatery said Massachusetts ranks among the highest on a percapita basis. Its much bigger than we thought, Slatery said. In his view, arts and culture deserve a seat at the table in policy discussions across the state. The economic impact is felt at the local level. An Americans for the Arts analysis found nonprofit arts and cultural activity in Springfield generated more than $82 million in economic activity and supported nearly 1,500 jobs in a year. Statewide, MassDevelopment reports that cultural facility projects have supported tens of thousands of construction and design jobs and more than $100 million in wages. Arts organizations are planning more than $1 billion in capital projects across the state. A 2025 report from the HealeyDriscoll administration found the creative economy supports about 133,000 jobs and contributes roughly $27 billion annually. The report recommended better integration of arts and culture into statewide economic planning. Leadership transition and shortterm focus Slatery, a lawyer by training, said he has long been interested in the arts as an economic engine. Im a lawyer by trade, but Ive been very interested in supporting the arts and culture as an economic engine, he said. With the fiscal year 2026 spending plan already approved, Slatery said his focus is continuing existing priorities while expanding the councils role in broader policy discussions. Ive been in this role for about two weeks, he said in a recent interview. The plan is to keep doing what we were doing before the previous executive director left. Those priorities include equitable, datadriven funding and strong local decisionmaking in every city and town. A Springfield-area grant recipient, Fresh Paint, has received support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council. (Provided photo) courtesy An equity funding model Slatery said diversity, equity and inclusion will remain central to the councils grant programs. He said all funding decisions include equity points based on factors such as income level, disability status, past access to funding and historical discrimination. We are not afraid to say those words, he said. The council also uses a datadriven model to distribute grants based on where applications come from. Slatery pointed to the local cultural council system, which provides funding to every city and town in Massachusetts a structure he said is unique nationwide. In Hampden County, which submits about 9.3% of grant applications, communities receive a similar share of funding, he said. Cultural districts, future priorities One focus for 2026 will be strengthening the states cultural district program. The program includes more than 55 designated districts, including Holyokes newly recognized Puerto Rican Cultural District in the downtown area. Slatery said the council is also paying attention to emerging technology, including artificial intelligence, and how it may affect artists and cultural organizations. We have to figure out how to use this new tool, he said, and make sure it helps artists and cultural organizations without replacing existing art and culture. While arts and culture may not receive the same attention as industries such as life sciences or transportation, Slatery said their reach is just as broad. Id like to see our political leaders talking about arts and culture policy the same way they talk about other important priorities, he said. The Massachusetts Cultural Council partners with organizations across the state, including the Springfield Museums, MassCreative and community groups in Holyoke. One of its largest funding partners is Mass Humanities, based in Holyoke. Slatery said the council is in negotiations to sign a new lease with its current landlord and continues to work closely with state legislators, including state Sen. Paul Mark of the Berkshires, chair of the Legislatures Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. As he reflected on his time at the agency, Slatery said he remains proud of the councils work. Ive been here 13 years, and Im extremely proud to work with this group of people, he said. We are committed to following through on the strategic spending plan approved for fiscal year 2026. He also encouraged residents to share their views. If people want to talk about art and culture and offer their opinions, Slatery said, we want to hear from them. SPRINGFIELD Was he a young man duped by an experienced grifter, or a knowing cog in an expensive fraud scheme that cost thousands in losses to businesses around the country? Steven Hayes Jr., of Illinois, is standing trial in U.S. District Court on charges of wire fraud conspiracy, aggravated identity fraud, and aiding and abetting. The trial is taking place in Springfield because one of the businesses affected is in Western Massachusetts. Jurors began their deliberations around 1 p.m. Monday. They failed to return a verdict by late afternoon. Prosecutors said Hayes Jr. helped procure stolen credit card information to pay for private and commercial flights and limousines. He and his alleged co-conspirators bought the information on the dark web. In 2017, Hayes Jr. was briefly part of a clique of young rap artists, their managers and other associates. The case gained a high profile in the music world because one of the defendants was Herbert Wright III, or G Herbo, an established and well-known rap artist. Hayes Jr. was promoting a budding talent, rapper Calvin Calboy Woods, from Chicago. Hayes became tied up with a music promoter named Antonio T-Glo Strong, finding himself in the middle of a plot that led to several federal convictions for fraud and related crimes. Defense lawyer Dana Goldblatt argued to jurors that Hayes Jr. was merely a patsy, unaware of the criminal nature of the arrangements. The defendant was disgusted by the credit card fraud, Goldblatt told the jury, often noting that her client was just 25 and inexperienced when he became involved with the entourage. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow argued to jurors that Hayes played a knowing and enthusiastic role in the scheme that afforded them a lavish lifestyle. A $27,000 private flight and $9500 puppies, which traveled to their destination in the back of a limousine, Breslow said. Just imagine that two puppies in the back of a limo." The government presented evidence of text exchanges between Hayes Jr. and Strong related to the various charges. You need to save me real quick, Strong wrote in a text to Hayes Jr., after a limo driver questioned the credit card information Strong provided, asking him to see the credit card in person. Hayes Jr. sent him the information he needed in less than a minute, according to prosecutors. I just finessed him not to see the card, Hayes Jr. texted, after Hayes Jr. called the driver and pretended to be the cardholder. Its a white guy. So you gotta sound white, Strong wrote. In one case, according to prosecutors, both men griped that their dark websites were down. I was loaded on pay cc, Hayes Jr. said, referring to illicit websites that market stolen credit card information. His defense attorney countered that her client had no footprint on the dark web. Most of the actual cardholders noticed the mysterious charges and called the credit card companies to dispute them. Those companies reversed the charges and unsuspecting business owners were left holding the bag. The owner of a high-end pet shop called authorities, sobbing after discovering she had been swindled. Strong signaled his intent to sell the two terrier pups. You gotta be careful where you put those mutts before you sell em, Hayes Jr. wrote in another text. A private jet charter company became suspicious when Strong and company booked a flight that cost $27,000. The owner contacted the U.S. Secret Service, and agents set up a sting to greet the group at a Chicago airport. Breslow said when they realized what they were facing, Strong, Hayes Jr. and another man fled. Goldblatt disputed this, telling jurors that only Strong fled. Wright received probation last year under a plea deal. Strong is serving out a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Pennsylvania. Goldblatt also argued her client was a victim of guilt-by-association, as they were all Black men who shared a certain slang. Jurors will resume deliberations Tuesday morning. Conspiracy to commit wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. SOUTHWICK Jason M. Perron, Air Force veteran, career law enforcement officer, and former Southwick Select Board member and chair, has announced he is running for the 3rd Hampden District seat in the House of Representatives. The people of this district deserve representation that puts people over party, Perron said in his announcement. Too often, decisions made at the Statehouse feel disconnected from the real lives of the people they affect especially out here in Western Massachusetts. Perron is running as an Independent because he believes voters deserve representation that is focused on people, not party politics. He joins Democrat Tom Hendrickson in a bid to claim the seat of Republican incumbent state Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, who didnt return a message to indicate whether he will be seeking reelection. Perron has spent nearly three decades in public service as an Air Force veteran, a career law enforcement officer and a former Southwick Select Board member. My years in the Air Force and as a police officer provided me with examples of great leadership, he said. It taught me that leadership is earned through discipline, accountability, and service not titles. Standing my ground and doing what was right in negotiations wasnt always pleasant or comfortable, Perron said. But leadership means making difficult choices and seeing them through. Perron said Western Massachusetts deserves a representative who shows up consistently in every community not just during election season. He racked up a string of accomplishments while serving on the Select Board, including spearheading the effort to establish the municipal aggregation program in Southwick. He also brought forth proposed zoning and policy changes to support responsible economic development and authored the towns flag policy to prevent constitutional and civil rights conflicts. His decision to run came from something he has believed for a long time: he is not the type of person who can sit back and complain, he said. I listened to people say for years that they werent getting what they needed from government, he said. But I also watched election cycles go by where almost nobody stepped up to run and do better. When the last election cycle went by, and there was only one candidate, thats when I really started thinking seriously about whether I should do this. Perron compares this campaign to the biggest firsts in his life Southwick High School as the new kid, basic training, becoming a police officer, husband, father and serving on the Select Board. Every one of those moments forced me to learn, grow and earn it, he said. And I walked into the Select Board the same way learning and growing and I proved to myself that I am capable. Perron said his campaign will focus on cost-of-living, energy costs, government transparency, fair funding for Western Massachusetts and practical public safety policy. Massachusetts has become one of the most expensive places in the country to live, Perron said. Families are getting squeezed from every direction energy, housing, healthcare, taxes and everyday costs. We need a representative who understands what its like to live here, work here, raise a family here and fight for this region to get its fair share. I answer to the people of this district, Perron said. And Ill work with anyone Republican, Democrat, or Independent if it helps our towns and our region. Perron lived in Blandford as a child, attended Gateway Regional schools, graduated from Southwick High School, lived in Granville, lived in Southwick from 1990 to 1993 before joining the Air Force, spent more than 20 years living in Westfield raising his family and serving the public, and returned to Southwick in 2019. Im not running against anyone, Perron said. Im running for the people of this district. The 3rd Hampden district includes parts of Agawam and Feeding Hills and the towns of Southwick, Granville, Blandford, Tolland, Russell, Montgomery, Huntington, Chester and Middlefield. For more information about Perron, visit https://candidates.goodparty.org/jperronfor3rdhampden or email him at jason14xxx@gmail.com Locals from across Mayo are urging their communities to support Daffodil Day this coming March 20 and raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. Edel Shovlin, Acting CEO of the Irish Cancer Society, said that this year alone, its estimated that 44,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer in Ireland. All of our essential services, like free counselling, Daffodil Centres, Night Nursing, and patient travel, are fuelled by fundraising. Its also thanks to the generosity of the public that we can fund groundbreaking cancer research to help develop kinder, gentler treatments, with the aim of achieving our ambition of a future where no one dies from cancer, she said. READ MORE: 'Every step counts' as Louisburgh battles Westport for Connacht glory Edel says the more money raised on Daffodil Day, the more that can be done. The more help we can give to children and adults going through cancer, the more lifesaving research we can fund, and the sooner we can ensure all cancer survivors have the support they need to live life to the full. For information on Daffodil Day, visit cancer.ie. Photo caption, above from left: Geraldine Quinn; Patsy Beattie; Anne Beattie; Sinead Langan; Sinead Birrane; Ivan Beattie; Mary Martin; Edel Shovlin, Acting CEO of the Irish Cancer Society; Joe Langan; Josephine Gunn; John Langan; Joyce O'Hara; Carmel Langan; Breege Langan; Nora Staed from Ballina, Co Mayo. A growing campaign is calling on the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh OBrien, to intervene in a proposed large-scale seaweed harvesting plan along Mayo coast, with over 7,000 people signing a petition opposing the application. The Uplift petition targets an application linked to Acadian Seaplants, a major Canadian corporation which owns Irish seaweed processing company Arramara Teoranta. Campaigners claim the company is seeking permission to harvest 40,000 tonnes of seaweed wrack from extensive coastal areas, including several locations around Ireland's west coast. According to details referenced in foreshore notices, proposed harvesting zones include Sruwaddacon Bay, Broadhaven Bay, Blacksod Bay, Achill Island, Clew Bay and Killary Harbour, alongside areas in Galway such as Ballynakill, Cleggan to Aghrus Point, Clifden, Mace Head and Galway Bay to Black Head. In total, 21 separate harvesting areas are listed as part of the application. READ MORE: Road to nowhere: Unfinished Mayo cycleway branded farcical and a disgrace The scale and geographic spread of the proposal has caused alarm among coastal communities in Mayo and beyond, with residents and environmental advocates warning of potential long-term damage to fragile marine ecosystems. Campaigners argue that seaweed forests play a crucial role in protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting marine biodiversity, and acting as nursery habitats for fish and shellfish. They also stress the cultural and historical importance of seaweed to west coast communities, where it has long been part of local heritage, folklore and traditional practices. The petition has been launched ahead of an anticipated public consultation process, with campaigners aiming to demonstrate strong opposition from communities up and down the west coast before any decision is taken. READ MORE: Sinn Fein to mark 50th anniversary of death of Mayo hunger striker One of the key concerns raised is that granting harvesting rights to a large international corporation could leave local communities with little influence over how their coastal environments are managed. Handing over the rights to a large corporation would leave communities with no input into how their land and environment was being treated, the petition states. Organisers warn that large-scale mechanical harvesting could see coastlines effectively scraped clean in pursuit of profit, with environmental damage that may not become fully apparent for years. Directly addressing the minister, the petition concludes: This application has been submitted to your department you have the power to stop this. The petition, which now nearly has 7.500 signatures, can be seen here. Anime is growing massively within India. The popularity is growing day by day and with shows like Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3and Frieren: Beyond Journeys End Season 2 airing side by side, there is no better way to stay glued to the screen. To make it even better, it would seem as though a major SS Rajamouli project could also be getting its own anime adaptation. This would open the door for Indian fans to become even more dedicated weebs. RRR Anime Adaptation in the Works Pen Studios Speaking with Polygon, SS Rajamouli found out about anime only in recent times. As he gears up to make Varanasi with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, his Oscar-winning movie is also looking to expand its audience. We have been in talks with a few studios in Japan to make RRR in anime, said Rajamouli. So, I'm waiting for things to get through. Hopefully it happens, and hopefully we can announce a cool continuation of RRR anime. It is still something that is in the process. However, Rajamouli has a lot of hope for the project. Once he got familiar with anime, he could not think of another way to make RRR even better. Anime Impacted Varanasi A sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole was handed down to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri Army Spc. Wooster Rancy in the murder of Sgt. Sarah Roque in 2024. Rancy, a 22-year-old combat engineer assigned to the 509th Engineer Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, was found guilty by a military jury of the premeditated murder of Roquewho had been found shot in the head, placed in a garbage bag, and hauled into a dumpster behind the barracks where she lived. Details of the murder were outlined in a news release sent by the Army to Military.com. Wooster learned his sentence on Friday, Feb. 6, at the Pulaski Courthouse where his trial ended just two days earlier. According to the Army, Roque was reported missing on Oct. 21, 2024, after she failed to report to her unit. A search followed and her body was found in a zip-tied garbage bag in a dumpster. She was shot in the head. Rancy was identified as a suspect after cell phone data showed that both Roque and Rancy were in her apartment for about an hour together on Oct. 20, 2024, the day before she went missing. Fort Leonard Wood Missouri U.S. Army Spc. Wooster Rancy sentenced to life in prison in the murder of Sgt. Sarah Roque in 2024. After her body was found, according to the Army news release, investigators found a bullet lodged in a banana inside the refrigerator of Roques installation apartment. Also, a firearm located in Rancys off installation apartment was confirmed through forensic testing to be the gun connected to the same bullet. This case was an important step towards justice for Sgt. Sarah Roque and her family. - Lt. Col. John Haberland of the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel The collaborative work of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Missouri, and the Fort Leonard Wood Department of Emergency Services, enhanced by expert analysis from the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, was essential to achieving this outcome. Effective coordination between all agencies is what brought about this just result," Haberland added. Details of the Crime Investigators found evidence that Rancy purchased heavy-duty trash bags and zip ties from a local Walmart on the morning of Oct. 20, 2021. Further investigation revealed Rancy searched online for how long it takes for a garbage bag to end up in a landfill as well as information regarding Fort Leonard Woods trash pickup schedule. This outcome was a true team effort, and I want to thank the Western District of Missouri U.S. Attorneys Office and our partners at the FBI Springfield Resident Agency and the Kansas City Field Office, said Special Agent in Charge John McCabe of Army CIDs Midcentral Field Office. This sends a clear message that Army CID and our justice system will not waver in the pursuit of justice. A previously renovated rolling pin barracks at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. The building was renovated by the Missouri Resident Office, Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and reflects the U.S. Armys initiative to improve quality of life for soldiers. (Christine Reinhardt) While no ruling can bring back Sgt. Sarah Roque or restore what was stolen from her loved ones, this sentencing brings accountability for this senseless act of violence. While no ruling can bring back Sgt. Sarah Roque or restore what was stolen from her loved ones, this sentencing brings accountability for this senseless act of violence," McCabe added. Sentencing and Rank Demotion Rancy is from North Miami, Fla., and will serve his prison sentence at the United States Disciplinary Barracks in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Due to high public interest and intense media focus on the case, a decision was made to hold Rancys trial off-post and in a larger Pulaski County courtroom. We are also grateful for the support from officials with Pulaski County for allowing us to hold the trial at their courthouse and ensuring the proceedings went smoothly, said Lt. Col. Haberland. Added to Rancys sentence, a military judge also reduced his rank to E-1the Armys entry level or trainee rank. The judge also ordered a total forfeiture of pay and allowances, as well as Rancys dishonorable discharge. Rancy also received sentences for lesser offenses related to obstructing justice by lying to investigators and throwing away Roque's cell phone in a dumpster near his off-post apartment. A United States congressman and veteran who facilitated a $10 million funding infusion to the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL) at Marine Corps Base Quantico knows the importance of the facility, partially because its in his own backyard. Rep. Eugene Vindman, a Democrat and U.S. Army veteran, represents Virginias 7th Districtthe same district where the Warfighting Lab is located. The constituents represented within run the gamut across the national security apparatus, totaling roughly 72,000 military veterans, nearly 20,000 active-duty service members, and at one point around 55,000 federal civil servants prior to cuts made by the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Funding passed through the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes defense policy and programs and involves hundreds of billions of dollars of allocated dollars. Vindman secured the $10 million for the lab while voting for multiple versions of the NDAA in September and December. The district is very much in the national security world, and it's a top priority for me, Vindman told Military.com. As it relates specifically to this facility, we had a tour and a briefing of the Warfighting Lab. We know the exquisite level of work that it does, that there are senior leaders that come from all around the country to use the facilities of the Warfighting Lab. Its world class. This $10 million grant actually allows us to take it to the next level and sort of optimize the performance of the facility. 30-Plus Years of Forward Thinking The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory was created in 1995 and originally known as the Commandants Warfighting Laboratory. It was bred from a standpoint of improving naval expeditionary capabilities from present and future perspectives. Upon its launch more than 30 years ago, MCWL developed a three-phase, five-year experimentation plan. Those phases were called Hunter Warrior (1995-1997), Urban Warrior (1997-1999), Capable Warrior (1999-2001) and Project Metropolis (1999-2004). U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Caleb Nugent, transmission systems operator, Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, left, a native of Kirksville, Missouri, and Cpl. Jakob Birchmeyer, transmission systems operator, HQBN, 2nd MARDIV, right, a native of Syracuse, New York, operate a radio during the Advantaged Node Processor Array Demonstration on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Oct. 23, 2023. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. David Brandes) Hunter Warrior examined operations in dispersed, non-contiguous battlespaces similar to those encountered in the Persian Gulf War, concluding with an advanced warfighting experiment at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Urban Warrior involved experiments on tactics, techniques and procedures in addition to emerging technologies that could be used in urban environments. It is dubbed by the Warfighting Lab as the first live-force experimentation focusing directly on the challenges of urban operations, filling gaps in Marine Corps training and readiness. Capable Warrior was described as a series of time-phased experiments focusing on over-the-horizon command and control issues, notably the challenges associated with operational maneuver from the sea. Project Metropolis ran concurrently with Capable Warrior. The labs focus in the past 20 years or so has been providing a critical link between operational planning and squad level tactical execution, notably mission-critical projects centered on counter-improvised explosive devices and blast mitigation. A Career of Service Vindman, who also serves on the House Armed Services Committee, told Military.com he is privy to the Warfighting Labs impact because hes personally seen and been involved in the upward trajectory of a more diversified military. National security is sort of one of those areas where it's a no-fail mission. It's an absolute obligation and responsibility that the federal government has to the American people. And I take it very seriously. Many years before he was elected in 2024, Vindman and his family fled Soviet Ukraine with little moneyending up in New York and culminating in the congressman receiving his ROTC commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army, where he served as an infantry officer and paratrooper including assignments in the 82D Airborne Division and as a company commander. Former Army officer Eugene Vindman, a Democrat who running for Congress in Virginia's 7th District, is interviewed at a coffee Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, in Stafford, Va. (AP Photo/Jay Paul) He then became part of the U.S. Army Judge Advocate Generals (JAG) Corps, where he served as an international law advisor in Iraq and later as a White House National Security Council (NSC) deputy legal advisor. His 25-year career ended with a retirement in 2022, just after he attained the rank of colonel. This is highly targeted funding for the Warfighting Lab, which is where they do strategic level war gaming, he said. It's a secure facility and senior leaders can come in at the facility to do war games. People can sort of pipe into those war games, run through scenarios that are absolutely critical. So, this goes really far beyond impacts to Quantico and even the Marine Corps, but it goes to the entire national security establishment, execution of operational plans and contingencies all throughout the worldand that can be done at the Warfighting Lab. So it's a truly unique, exquisite capability, and I'm proud to have supported it. Boosted Defense Budget, Leadership Disagreements President Donald Trump has publicly stated that he would like to see the current defense budget, hovering around $1 trillion for FY 2026, bumped up to the tune of approximately $500 billion. Vindman, who like most Democrats doesnt see eye to eye with this president and administration on many issues, does agree with Trump on this frontto a degree. I'm a believer that the military budget actually had to increase to be able to respond to the challenges that we're facing. But my biggest problem, and I think many of my colleagues, is the lack of accountability. There is no real plan. There's a headline for the Golden Dome, but no real fleshed out concept. Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., the ranking member of the House Rules Committee, and Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., left, and other Democrats on the panel gather early as Republicans work to pass a four-bill spending package covering the Pentagon, Transportation-HUD, Labor-HHS and the Department of Homeland Security, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) And the same thing with a lot of the funding here is that throwing money at a problem is not a solution. We have to be highly targeted. We have to fix acquisitions and procurement. We have to make sure that we're buying the right stuff. And in all of these areas, frankly, I don't have a great deal of confidence in this administration and also in the leadership in the Department of Defense," he added. He called the current DOD, led by Secretary Pete Hegseth, the least competent, least capable Department of Defense leadership that this country has ever seen. Their principal qualification is blind obedience and loyalty, and it's not experience, judgment or anything like that, he added. So, I have serious concerns about the sort of foreign adventures. The president claimed that he wanted to stop forever wars. Meanwhile, just in 12 months, we've seen operations in Yemen, Nigeria, Iran, Venezuela, Syria. It seems to be that he's enamored with the exquisite tool that is the U.S. military that is the most professional, capable, combat tested in the world. But without taking into account that the sort of unchangeable element of war is that there's always fog. He had no family left. Hundreds of strangers showed up anyway. The funeral service for Jeffrey Kalnas, a U.S. Navy veteran, was held Wednesday in West Pittston, Pennsylvania, after word spread locally that he would otherwise be buried alone. The service, officiated at First United Methodist Church West Pittston, drew hundreds of residents, veterans and community members who came to ensure Kalnas received public recognition for his military service. West Pittston Borough Secretary Kendra-lee OBrien-Rogers told Military.com that the borough itself did not organize the event but pointed to community and veterans groups that stepped in. The borough was not directly involved in this event, OBrien-Rogers said, adding that the service was officiated by the West Pittston United Methodist Church and supported by members of the American Legion, including Commander Ron Gitkos of West Pittston American Legion Post 542. Military.com reached out to the Department of Veterans Affairs for comment as the turnout grew. Strangers Answer the Call Kalnas had several bouts of cancer. For his most recent bout, he went in for surgery and never made it out of the hospital, personal care homeowner Jennifer Mayehue told local ABC affiliate WNEP. "We always try to do something for anybody that doesn't have family," " Mayehue said. "I just feel that it's respectful, and everybody should be acknowledged in their passing." News of Jeffrey Kalnas death circulated locally after arrangements were made for what was expected to be a small funeral service. Word spread quickly that the U.S. Navy veteran had no immediate family and would otherwise be buried alone, prompting a rapid response across the community. West Pittston American Legion Post 542, whose members helped support and attend the funeral service honoring U.S. Navy veteran Jeffrey Kalnas, who died without immediate family. (Facebook) Within hours, veterans organizations, neighbors and residents said they felt compelled to attend. Many said they did not know Kalnas personally but believed military service alone warranted showing up. Attendance quickly exceeded expectations. Veterans stood shoulder to shoulder with civilians, some wearing service caps and jackets, others holding small American flags. Several attendees said the turnout reflected a shared belief that no veteran should be laid to rest without recognition. "Thank you to ALL for answering the call and coming to the memorial service tonight for Navy veteran Jeffrey Kalnas, to stand in the gap for someone who had no family or friends to do soyour presence spoke volumes! You gave this veteran the gift of being remembered, honored, and laid to rest with love. In showing up, you reflected Gods compassion and reminded us that no one is ever truly alone. God bless each and every one of you!" the church posted on Facebook on Jan. 28. Veterans in attendance said the turnout reflected a shared sense of responsibility rooted in military service, one that does not end when uniforms come off or years pass. Some wore unit jackets stitched with service patches. Others stood quietly in pews holding small American flags. Several said they did not know Jeffrey Kalnas personally but felt his service alone obligated them to attend. Attendees described the gathering as a final salute, not just from fellow veterans but from a community that refused to let a service member be buried without recognition. Families and funeral directors can request military funeral honors through established Defense Department channels. They Refused to Stay Home The packed church sent a clear message about how this community views military service. Even without family in the pews, Jeffrey Kalnas was not alone. Veterans and civilians alike said showing up was a way to honor a service member who no longer had anyone to speak for him. Several attendees said the turnout was not just about one funeral but about a shared responsibility to remember those who served. Information on burial and memorial benefits remains available for eligible veterans and families through the VA system. On the afternoon of Oct. 4, 1918, American artillery hit a ravine in France's Argonne Forest. The rounds were falling directly on roughly 500 U.S. soldiers that had been trapped behind enemy lines for two days. Maj. Charles Whittlesey, a New York lawyer commanding the surrounded force, had one way left to stop the bombardment. His life and the lives of his men now rested on a lone carrier pigeon. That bird, a black check homing pigeon named Cher Ami, flew 25 miles through gunfire with a message attached to his wounded leg. The flight helped save hundreds of American soldiers and made Cher Ami one of the most recognized animals in U.S. military history. Trapped in the Argonne The Meuse-Argonne Offensive was the largest American military operation of World War I. Launched Sept. 26, 1918, it sent more than a million U.S. troops against fortified German defenses in northeastern France. The 77th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Metropolitans," filled its ranks from New York City draftees. Chinese, Polish, Italian, Irish, Greek, Russian, German and Jewish Americans joined the unit, many of them immigrants or first-generation citizens from Manhattan's Lower East Side. On Oct. 2, Whittlesey led elements of the 308th Infantry Regiment into the dense Argonne Forest alongside Capt. George McMurtry's 2nd Battalion. McMurtry was a veteran of the Spanish-American War who had ridden with Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders. Both officers had reservations about the attack. Before stepping off, Whittlesey told his regimental commander, "All right, I'll attack, but whether you'll hear from me again, I don't know." Their orders were to advance north and seize a road near the Charlevaux Ravine. On a foggy morning, they pushed forward and captured their objective. But French forces on their left flank and another American division on their right both failed to keep pace. German troops recaptured ground behind Whittlesey's men overnight and sealed the gap. By dawn on Oct. 3, roughly 554 Americans were completely encircled. They became known as the "Lost Battalion." Capt. Nelson Holderman reached the pocket that morning with Company K of the 307th Infantry, adding his men to the surrounded force. German snipers, machine guns, grenades, trench mortars and flamethrowers hit the American position from nearly every direction over the next few days. Members of the "Lost Battalion" in late October 1918 near Apremont. (Wikimedia Commons) Pigeons on the Western Front The U.S. Army Signal Corps deployed roughly 600 British-bred homing pigeons to France in May 1918. Radios on the Western Front were bulky and tethered to fragile wires. Telephone lines were constantly severed by artillery. Human runners made easy targets for snipers and machine guns. Over the previous decades, military forces around the world had experimented with using carrier pigeons for transmitting messages. As WWI radios proved unreliable, pigeons helped fill the gap, flying at speeds near 50 mph and navigating home across unfamiliar terrain. An estimated 95% of pigeon-carried messages on the Western Front ultimately reached their destination. German machine gun crews were trained specifically to spot and shoot down Allied pigeons. Killing an enemy bird meant the prevention of reinforcements or artillery support. For soldiers in the trenches or behind enemy lines, pigeons were the difference between life and death. Whittlesey had no functioning radio and no way to run telephone wire through the German lines. His only communication link to division headquarters was a small collection of homing pigeons carried by Pvt. Omer Richards of New York, a member of the 308th who served as the unit's pigeon handler. Carrier pigeons played a vital role in emergency communications for military units during WWI. (Wikimedia Commons) 'For Heaven's Sake Stop It' Over Oct. 3 and 4, Whittlesey sent several pigeon messages requesting reinforcements and supplies. One early message contained inaccurate coordinates, something the American artillery would inadvertently use. On the afternoon of Oct. 4, American artillery batteries, unaware of Whittlesey's actual position, opened up a barrage intended for German lines. The rounds struck the American pocket instead. The friendly fire killed approximately 30 soldiers and wounded dozens more. Whittlesey ordered Richards to prepare a pigeon. A shell blast startled the handler and one of the two remaining birds escaped. Richards reached for the last pigeon in his basket. It was Cher Ami, a British-bred bird who had already completed 12 successful missions flying from the Verdun front. His name was French for "Dear Friend." Whittlesey scrawled a message and Richards attached it to the pigeon's right leg. The note read, "We are along the road parallel 276.4. Our own artillery is dropping a barrage directly on us. For heaven's sake stop it." Richards released Cher Ami. The bird landed on a nearby branch and refused to move. Richards climbed the tree and shook the limb until the pigeon took off. Major Whittlesey (right) talking to Major Kenny, 307th Infantry, after the battle. Kenny's 3rd battalion took part in the relief attempts for the "Lost Battalion". (Wikimedia Commons) Cher Ami's Flight German soldiers spotted Cher Ami rising from the American position and opened fire with rifles and machine guns. A bullet or shrapnel tore into Cher Ami's breast and struck his right leg, nearly severing it. The pigeon dropped. Then Cher Ami got airborne again. With a severe chest wound and his right leg hanging by a single tendon, the message canister still attached, the bird flew southwest toward the division's Mobile Loft No. 11 at Rampont. He covered 25 miles in roughly 25 minutes. When Cher Ami arrived at the loft, he was on his back, covered in blood, with the message dangling from what remained of his leg. Army medics saved his life but could not save the leg. It had to be amputated. The American shelling stopped. Whittlesey's note gave the division the exact coordinates of the surrounded force. Canadian soldiers releasing a carrier pigeon from the trenches. The US Army used around 600 pigeons to deliver messages during the war. (Wikimedia Commons) The Rescue Over the next three days, the trapped Americans continued to fight off German assaults. American planes attempted to drop food, ammunition and medical supplies to the pocket, but nearly every package missed and fell into German hands. On Oct. 7, a blindfolded American prisoner named Pvt. Lowell Hollingshead was sent back into the pocket carrying a white flag and a German note urging surrender. It read, "The suffering of your wounded men can be heard over here in German lines, and we are appealing to your humane sentiments to stop. Please treat Private Lowell R. Hollingshead as an honorable man. He is quite a soldier. We envy you." American newspapers later claimed Whittlesey shouted "Go to hell!" in response. He denied it. In his official report, the major wrote that no reply seemed necessary. Instead, he ordered every white panel on the hillside pulled in so the Germans would not mistake them for surrender flags. He told his men to prepare for another attack. That same day, Pvt. Abraham Krotoshinsky, a Polish-born Jewish immigrant serving with the 308th, volunteered to slip through the German lines as a runner. He made it through. Krotoshinsky reached American forces and helped guide the relief column toward Whittlesey's position. He received the Distinguished Service Cross. When American troops broke through the encirclement on the evening of Oct. 7, the losses were significant. Of the original force, 107 men had been killed, 63 were missing and 190 were wounded. Only 194 soldiers walked out on their own. L.C. McCollum, a Lost Battalion survivor, later wrote that the leadership of Whittlesey and McMurtry during those days "was something wonderful to see. It instilled into the hearts of their men that undying faith of purpose, the courage to go ahead against overwhelming odds." General Edwards pinning Congressional Medal of Honor on Lt. Col. Whittlesey, on Boston Common. (Wikimedia Commons) Cher Ami's Legacy Cher Ami survived his wounds. The French government awarded him the Croix de Guerre with palm for gallantry. Members of the Lost Battalion carved a small wooden leg for the bird. Gen. John Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces, said, "There isn't anything the United States can do too much for this bird." Under the care of his trainer, Capt. John Carney, Cher Ami sailed for the United States on April 16, 1919. He was housed at Camp Alfred Vail, later renamed Fort Monmouth, in New Jersey. His chest wound never fully healed. Cher Ami died on June 13, 1919. The U.S. Army Signal Corps donated his remains to the Smithsonian Institution. Taxidermist Nelson R. Wood preserved the bird, and Cher Ami went on public display in June 1921. He was posthumously inducted into the Racing Pigeon Hall of Fame in 1931 and received the Animals in War and Peace Medal of Bravery in 2019. For a century, one detail remained unresolved. Army records from the era listed Cher Ami as a female hen, while the Smithsonian labeled him a male. In 2021, the museum conducted DNA testing on tissue samples from the pigeon's remains. Cher Ami was confirmed to have been male. Capt. John Carney, Cher Ami's trainer, holds the feathered hero. (World War I Centennial Commission) The Cost of Command The story of the Lost Battalion captured the attention of Americans everywhere as newspaper headlines repeatedly told the story of their survival. Whittlesey and his men despised the name. They were exactly where they had been ordered to go, the other units failed to keep up. The survivors preferred the term "surrounded battalion." Whittlesey, McMurtry and Holderman all received the Medal of Honor for their actions in the Argonne. Whittlesey returned to his law practice in New York, but was flooded with speaking invitations and parades. He hated the attention. He deflected every public appearance toward praising the enlisted men who served alongside him. On the night of Nov. 26, 1921, Whittlesey disappeared from the USS Toloa while traveling from New York to Havana. His body was never recovered. He had prepared a will before the voyage, leaving the original German surrender note to McMurtry. National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution. Cher Ami and Sgt. Stubby, two American animal heroes of WWI. (Wikimedia Commons) Col. Nathan K. Averill said at his memorial that Whittlesey's death "was in reality a battle casualty and that he met his end as much in the line of duty as if he had fallen by a German bullet." Cher Ami is still on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. He stands on his wooden leg in the "Price of Freedom" exhibition. Alongside Sgt. Stubby and Chips the War Dog, Cher Ami remains on the most iconic and heroic animals to have ever served alongside American troops. Recent maneuvers by Russian satellites near European geostationary communications platforms have highlighted the risks to unencrypted command links and data transmissions. These developments emphasize the critical importance of resilient and diverse communication methods for military operations, government functions and commercial services that rely on space-based infrastructure. Military.com had the opportunity to speak with space entrepreneur Laurynas Maciulis, chief executive officer of Astrolight, a Lithuanian company focused on optical communications technology. Maciulis discussed how laser-based systems can address vulnerabilities exposed by these orbital activities. Astrolight CEO Laurynas Maciulis (Photo courtesy of Astrolight) Russian Satellites Approach European Platforms European security officials (speaking to Financial Times on Feb. 4) believe two Russian spacecraft, Luch-1 and Luch-2, have intercepted signals from at least a dozen key satellites serving Europe, parts of Africa and the Middle East. Luch-2, launched in 2023, has approached 17 European geostationary satellites since its deployment. Orbital tracking data shows Luch-2 has lingered within tens of kilometers of targets such as Intelsat 39, Eutelsat 3C, Eutelsat 9B, SES-5, Astra 4A and others. The satellite has conducted multiple course changes, moving east and west while positioning itself near these assets for extended periods. Officials reportedly suspect that the Russian vehicles may have been conducting signals intelligence operations by positioning themselves within the narrow beam cones used for data transmission between ground stations and satellites. Many of the targeted satellites carry civil communications, including television and broadband services, but also support government and military traffic. Unencrypted Links Create Vulnerabilities A major concern centers on older satellites launched years ago without advanced encryption on their command uplinks. These platforms lack modern onboard computers capable of securing command data. As a result, sensitive information transmitted in the clear could be captured. Intercepted command links might allow an adversary to mimic ground operators. Further, false commands could alter satellite trajectories, knock platforms out of alignment or, in extreme cases, cause them to drift or deorbit. German Major General Michael Traut, head of Germany's military space command, described the activity as signals intelligence operations. A senior European intelligence official noted that even without full decryption, valuable details could be gathered, such as satellite usage patterns and ground terminal locations. The incidents fit the ever increasing pattern of Russian hybrid warfare in Europe and beyond. Officials link them to other disruptive actions, including sabotage of subsea internet and power cables. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has called satellite networks an Achilles heel of modern societies. Such attacks could potentially paralyze entire nations. Laser Systems Offer Secure Alternatives Diverse communication technologies are essential to reduce single points of failure. While radio frequency systems remain dominant they are susceptible to interception and interference when encryption is absent or signals can be accessed. Visual representation of a solution scheme by Astrolight (Image courtesy of Astrolight) Astrolight develops compact laser communication terminals for satellites and portable optical ground stations. The company's ATLAS terminals enable high-speed space-to-space and space-to-ground links using narrow optical beams. Maciulis explained that laser communications provide inherent security advantages over radio frequency. The extremely directional beams make interception difficult without precise alignment in the path of the light. This reduces risks from proximity operations like those conducted by Luch satellites. In addition, laser systems resist jamming and electromagnetic interference more effectively than radio frequency alternatives. They support higher data rates while requiring less size, weight and power, making them suitable for both large geostationary platforms and smaller satellites in proliferated constellations. ATLAS (in front) at the Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Toulouse for integration testing. (Photo courtesy of Exotrail) Astrolight has conducted tests with the European Space Agency, including demonstrations of a laser communication link between Astrolights OGS-1 optical ground station, located at Teide Observatory in Tenerife, Spain, and an experimental laser transmitter system, Osiris, onboard the Flying Laptop satellite. The company positions its technology for civil and defense applications, including NATO-relevant secure links in contested environments. Implications for U.S. and Allied Forces The United States Space Force and allied partners have invested in resilient architectures, including optical crosslinks in programs like the Space Development Agency's proliferated warfighter space architecture. These efforts align with calls for greater diversity in satellite communications to counter hybrid threats. European officials express growing worry that Russian reconnaissance in space is expanding. Moscow launched Cosmos 2589 and Cosmos 2590 last year, vehicles with similar maneuvering capabilities. Luch-1 appears to have suffered a propulsion issue in late January, resulting in fragmentation and tumbling. For U.S. military operations that depend on allied satellite capacity for communications, navigation and intelligence, these events signal the need for accelerated adoption of secure optical technologies. Proliferated low Earth orbit constellations with inter-satellite laser links offer redundancy, and legacy geostationary assets can still play vital roles. Maciulis noted that integrating laser terminals on new satellites can harden command and control links. Combined with encryption upgrades and improved space domain awareness, such measures strengthen overall resilience. The incidents involving the Russian Luch satellites serve as a timely reminder. Relying on a narrow set of communication methods in space creates exploitable weaknesses. Developing and deploying diverse, hardened alternatives such as laser systems will prove essential for maintaining operational advantage in an increasingly contested orbital domain. The Rays announced the signing of righty Nick Martinez to a one-year deal with a mutual option. Its reportedly a $13MM guarantee for the Boras Corporation client that takes the form of a $9MM base salary and a $4MM buyout on the option, which is valued at $20MM. Reliever Manuel Rodriguez was placed on the 60-day injured list in a corresponding move. Hes working back from elbow surgery that was performed last July. Martinez is the second free agent swingman whom the Rays have added this offseason. They signed lefty Steven Matz to a two-year, $15MM deal at the Winter Meetings. Matz was already expected to win a job at the back of the rotation. Tampa Bay subsequently traded Shane Baz to the Orioles, leaving another rotation spot available. The 35-year-old Martinez enters camp as the favorite to work as Kevin Cashs fifth starter. He lands behind Drew Rasmussen, Ryan Pepiot, Shane McClanahan and Matz on the depth chart. That could push Ian Seymour and Joe Boyle back to Triple-A Durham while keeping the out-of-options Yoendrys Gomez in a long relief role for which hes better suited. Theyll need way more than five starters to navigate the season given the injury histories for Rasmussen and McClanahan the latter of whom hasnt thrown an MLB pitch since August 2023 and will be on some kind of innings count. Matz and Martinez each have ample experience working out of the bullpen. Either could transition to relief if Seymour or top prospect Brody Hopkins force their way into the rotation. The versatility has been a huge selling point for Martinez, in particular. He can start, work multiple innings out of the bullpen, or pitch short relief in high-leverage situations as needed. Martinez has found a strong second act in his 30s after spending four seasons in Japan. This will be his fifth season since he returned to MLB on a deal with the Padres over the 2021-22 offseason. He posted a sub-4.00 earned run average in each of the first three years, working mostly out of the bullpen. Martinez spent the first two seasons in San Diego before signing a two-year free agent contract with Cincinnati. He had the best year of his career in 2024, firing 142 1/3 innings of 3.10 ERA ball while starting 16 of 42 appearances. The righty triggered an opt-out but returned to Cincinnati after the Reds surprisingly extended a $21.05MM qualifying offer. Thats probably a move the Reds wished they had back. Martinez did pick up a career-high 165 2/3 innings while starting 26 of 40 games, but his production was that of a back-end starter. He allowed 4.45 earned runs per nine while striking out just 17% of opposing hitters, his lowest strikeout rate since he returned from Japan. Although Martinez has never had huge swing-and-miss stuff, his strikeout rates between 2022-24 hovered around league average. He had a more difficult time getting hitters to chase pitches off the plate last year. His stuff wasnt that much different than it had been, however, and Martinezs biggest strength has been his ability to command a legitimate six-pitch mix. He uses each of his cutter, four-seam, sinker, changeup, curveball and slider at least 10% of the time. Hes able to attack the strike zone with any of those offerings, but the changeup is the only plus pitch in his arsenal. The diverse repertoire has allowed Martinez to avoid any kind of platoon splits. He hasnt been great at turning lineups over a third time but should be a capable five-inning starter. Martinez gets a decent number of weak fly-balls, an approach that might play more favorably at Tropicana Field than at Cincinnatis Great American Ball Park. He did a solid job avoiding the longball overall, but his two worst months last season (June and August) were driven largely by home run spikes. RosterResource estimated the Rays payroll around $79MM before the signing. Its not yet clear how much will be paid in salary versus the option buyout, but the $13MM guarantee will very likely make Martinez their highest-paid player in 2026. Itll push their payroll estimate into the low-$90MM range after they opened the 25 season just north of $79MM. Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of The New York Post first reported Martinez and the Rays had an agreement. Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times reported that it was for one year with a mutual option and had the salary breakdown. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com had the $13MM guarantee. Image courtesy of Charles LeClaire, Imagn Images. The always outspoken Kid Rock is making his voice loud and clear when it comes to the race for governor of Michigan as he has come out with an endorsement. Rock, who is from Romeo in Metro Detroit, but now mainly resides in Nashville, Tennessee, is a supporter and friend of President Donald Trump. When it came to making his endorsement, he has chosen one of the GOP candidates. As our next governor of Michigan, I know you will bring many victories to our GREAT STATE, Kid Rock said of John James, who posted Rocks endorsement on his X page. James is the U.S. Representative of Michigans 10th Congressional district, which encompasses southern Macomb County and Rochester and Rochester Hills in Oakland County. Previously, James was the President of James Group International and CEO of Renaissance Global Logistics. He also served eight years of active duty military service. Kid Rock is a good friend. We share our love for Detroit, the state of Michigan and the United States of America, James wrote of Rocks endorsement, adding... Im honored to have the endorsement of this unapologetic freedom-loving patriot and I look forward to working with him and every other Michigander to make Michigan great again. James hopes to replace democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer who is completing her second term. Among those also running are Jocelyn Benson (D), the current Michigan Secretary of State; former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan (I); Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson (D); former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox (R); former Michigan House Speaker Tom Leonard (R); businessman Perry Johnson (R). Michigans gubernatorial election is on November 3rd. OLD MISSION PENINSULA, MI All students were sent home from a Northern Michigan school today after an incident that resulted in a lockdown, officials said. The incident occurred this morning, Feb. 9, at Old Mission Peninsula Elementary School, Grand Traverse Sheriffs Office said in a statement released via Grand Traverse County Emergency Management. At this time all students and staff are safe and accounted for, police said. Students were released to their parents or guardians following the districts reunification plan. A suspect is in custody, and there is no threat to the public, WPBN/WGTU reports. No further details have been released. Marvin Blaney, a 68-year-old drag racer, suffered severe burns and injuries when his 1963 Corvette caught fire during a qualifying run at National Trail Raceway. Quick-thinking and heroic efforts helped save Blaney, which is one of five must-read stories from MLive over the weekend. Im going to die: Michigan drag racer recalls being trapped inside burning car Blaney was trapped for over three minutes before a bystander cut the safety strap that held him inside the burning vehicle. The crash resulted from a backfire while attempting to restart the engine, leading to an explosion that engulfed the cockpit in flames. Reporter Joey Oliver and multimedia specialist Kaytie Boomer share the full story here. Here are four other compelling MLive stories to read: Taliyah Symonette's rare heart defect went untreated for years before doctors at Corewell Health performed emergency surgery in September 2025. (Taylor Ballek |Corewell Health) Taylor Ballek | Corewell Health Her heart was so enlarged it filled her whole chest. Heres how surgeons saved her Taliyah Symonette, a 21-year-old born with a congenital heart defect, faced severe health challenges that led to heart failure and withdrawal from college. After moving to Michigan and being diagnosed in September 2025, she underwent risky surgery at Corewell Health to repair her heart and installed a pacemaker, allowing her to return to normal activities. Reporter Brian McVicar shares more in this story here. Dr. Christopher Sudduth, 35, and Lindsey (Johnson) Sudduth, 39, waving a University of Michigan flag on top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Courtesy of Lindsey (Johnson) Sudduth This Ann Arbor couple waved a University of Michigan flag on top of Mount Kilimanjaro Dr. Christopher Sudduth and Lindsey Sudduth, a couple from Ann Arbor, hiked Mount Kilimanjaro in January, requiring two months of training and preparation. They encountered a variety of conditions during their seven-day trek. Upon reaching the summit at 19,340 feet, they celebrated by waving the University of Michigan flag. Reporter William Diep shares more details in this story here. A celebration of life was held for Jacqueline Neill and her sons, Cameron and Michael Kilpatrick, at Remembrance Church in Walker on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. Neill and her boys died in a shooting on Jan. 27 in their Grand Rapids home. Photo provided by Kilpatrick family Family, friends remember a devoted mother who would do anything for her 2 sons Jacqueline Neill was known for her dedication to her sons, Cameron and Michael Kilpatrick. Neill and her sons died in a shooting at their Grand Rapids home just two weeks after moving in, generating an outpour of grief in the community. Family and friends came together on Saturday, Feb. 7, for a celebration of life service for Neill and her boys. Reporter Bradley Massman has the full story here. Blazing star wildflowers are seen at Sibley Prairie. The Michigan Land Conservancy has a $6 million campaign to save a tract in Brownstown Township called Sibley Prairie, which contains a special ecosystem called a lake plain wet prairie. Michigan Land Conservancy This vanishing Michigan prairie is so rare experts are racing against time to save it A 440-acre tract of land in Wayne County, known as Sibley Prairie, is home to a unique lake plain wet prairie ecosystem that conservation experts deem more valuable than potential development. The Michigan Land Conservancy has initiated a $6 million fundraising campaign to purchase the property, securing an option to buy by the end of 2026 while having raised $500,000 so far. About $5.5 million remains. Ecologists emphasize the necessity of preserving this habitat, which is essential for community biodiversity and green space in the Detroit area. Reporter Sheri McWhirter shares more in this story here. Chinese FM to attend opening session of First APEC 2026 Senior Officials' Meeting Xinhua) 15:54, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and minister of foreign affairs, will attend and address the opening session of the First APEC 2026 Senior Officials' Meeting in Guangzhou on Feb. 10, a foreign ministry spokesperson announced here on Monday. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) ANN ARBOR, MI Ann Arbor is starting a new search for an artist to make a sculpture to go in front of city hall. The city is inviting experienced bronze artists and artist teams to apply to design, fabricate and install a life-sized bronze figure honoring Kathy Kozachenko, who became the first openly gay person elected to public office in the United States when she was elected to City Council in 1974. The city first announced plans for the sculpture in summer 2023, aiming to unveil it as part of the citys bicentennial celebration in 2024, but the original artist and organization the city had in mind didnt work out. After two and a half years of delays, the new project timeline calls for artists to submit proposals by March 8, with semi-finalists to be selected in April and interviewed in May. The chosen finalist is expected to be commissioned in June, with the sculpture to be completed and installed in spring/summer 2027. Kathy Kozachenko, who became the first openly gay person elected to public office in the United States when she was elected to the Ann Arbor City Council in April 1974. Ann Arbor News archives courtesy of OldNews.AADL.org The total budget for the project is $75,000 and the Ann Arbor Art Center is managing the call for artists in collaboration with the city. The sculpture is intended to recognize Kozachenkos historic election and her lasting impact on civil rights and public service, according to the city. Kathy Kozachenkos courage and leadership helped shape Ann Arbors long-standing commitment to equality and inclusion, Mayor Christopher Taylor said in a statement. This statue will serve as a visible reminder of our communitys values and the importance of representation in public life. The project is being funded through donations being accepted through the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor. Artists can learn more about the project and apply through Art Center website. Public art has the power to tell our communitys story in a way that is accessible and enduring, Mayor Pro Tem Travis Radina said in a statement, saying honoring Kozachenkos legacy and celebrating the citys LGBTQ+ history has the power to inspire the next generation of young LGBTQ+ leaders. Former Ann Arbor City Council Members Jerry DeGrieck and Kathy Kozachenko pose during a dedication ceremony for a State of Michigan Historical Marker commemorating former Ann Arbor City Council Members Nancy Wechsler, DeGrieck and Kozachenko outside Larcom City Hall, 301 E. Huron St. in Ann Arbor on Thursday, Sept. 4 2025. Wechsler and DeGrieck were recognized as the first elected officials in the United States to come out as lesbian and gay while holding public office in 1973, while Kozachenko was the first openly LGBTQ+ candidate elected to a public office in the United States in 1974. The marker also celebrates the Human Rights Party, of which, DeGrieck, Kozachenko and Wechsler were members, and posthumously recognizes the contributions of LGBTQ+ rights pioneer Jim Toy. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Kozachenko was on hand, along with some of her allies from the 1970s, when the city unveiled an LGBTQ+ and human rights historical marker in front of city hall in September. Kozachenko, 73 and now living in Pittsburgh, was a 21-year-old University of Michigan student activist and member of Ann Arbors left-wing Human Rights Party when she made history. I was a lesbian on a campus that rejoiced in it, but in a country that had repressive laws still on the books, a country that for the most part did not celebrate or highlight diversity, she said. Kozachenko said she discovered in the Human Rights Party an organization that shared her values and articulated a plan forward, supporting movements for womens and gay rights, Black power, trade unions, welfare rights and living wages, while protesting the Vietnam War. We made decisions collectively and fought for social and economic justice, she said. I would not be the person I am today had I not been part of that radical, dynamic and democratic organization. I am forever indebted. From left, Ann Arbor City Council candidates Mary Richman and Kathy Kozachenko discuss 2nd Ward issues in March 1974, ahead of Kozachenko becoming the first openly gay person elected to public office in the United States that April. Ann Arbor News archives courtesy of OldNews.AADL.org Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page. YPSILANTI, MI Two longtime voices at 89.1 WEMU will step away from their microphones in June as the Ypsilanti station marks the conclusion of its 60th anniversary. David Fair and Michael Jewett announced their retirements from the Eastern Michigan University public radio station, effective June 30, 2026, according to a Feb. 5 press release. Fair has served as news director and Morning Edition host since joining the station in 1994, while Jewett recently celebrated his 42nd anniversary as senior music announcer and operations manager. Fair cited the demands of early morning broadcasting as a factor in his decision. I love being a part of this community and, through WEMU, consider it a privilege to have interacted and engaged in meaningful ways for over three decades, Fair said in the press release. But, getting up in the middle of the night for nearly 32 years can take a toll. He said he plans to remain involved with the station and support its community service if asked. Jewett, who began at WEMU in the 1980s, said he wants to create more balance in his life. Ive been on the air since the deepest, darkest 80s! Thats a long time! Jewett said. Ive reached an age and point where I need to create some more space for things in my life besides work. Headshot of David Fair, news director and Morning Edition host at WEMU. Provided by WEMU WEMU Executive Director Molly Motherwell called the pair flagship broadcasters whose contributions have been critical to the stations success. Its not going to be easy to replace either one, Motherwell said. We are eternally grateful to have been the recipient of their broadcasting expertise and talents and look forward to celebrating David and Michael and all their accomplishments for the next few months in what were calling the Jewett Fair-well. Fair started at WEMU as a part-time host of All Things Considered before moving to Morning Edition. He took on news director responsibilities in 2012 and developed weekly content partnerships including Issues of the Environment and Cinema Chat. His interview subjects have ranged from elected officials to environmental activists, entertainers and authors. Jewett began hosting Sunday Best, a classic jazz program, before moving to afternoon jazz programming. He currently hosts both morning and afternoon shows, including the award-winning Bluestime hour weekdays at 3 p.m. He regularly appears at the Detroit Jazz Festival and Blue LLama Jazz Club and co-hosted national broadcasts of the Detroit Jazz Festival in the 1980s and 90s. The station expects to post both positions within the next few weeks. WEMU broadcasts NPR news, cultural programming, local news, jazz and blues to an eight-county area and streams online at its website. Generative AI was used to draft this story, based on information provided by 89.1 WEMU. It was reviewed and edited by MLive staff. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page. ADA TWP., MI Ada voters will be going to a new polling location if they choose to vote during the townships nine-day early voting period in the 2026 elections. The township is moving its early voting location from the township hall to the Amy Van Andel Library due to a lack of ample space in the current location. Township Clerk Jo DeMarco said she prompted the move after noticing that the current early voting setup at the township office, 7330 Thornapple River Drive, was not adequate to handle early voting. She described the early voting experience at the township hall as chaotic and disruptive, citing long lines, a lack of space and significant noise that interfered with the normal work of township staff. The Ada branch of the Kent District Library, located at 7215 Headley St., offered the perfect solution, and met all the requirements for an early voting location, she said. The librarys director also agreed to host the nine days of early voting for Ada Township. Amy Van Andel Library is an absolutely beautiful facility, and it has all the room that we need, DeMarco told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. The proposed move went before the Ada Township Board of Trustees on Jan. 26 and was approved, DeMarco said. Ada Township had 2,522 ballots cast during the nine-day early voting period in the November 2024 general election, or 25% of the 9,933 total votes cast in Ada in that election. In comparison, 2,696 votes were cast in-person on Election Day, and 4,715 absentee ballots were cast. Ada Townships early voting period will run from July 25 to Aug. 2 ahead of the Tuesday, Aug. 4, primary election, and from Oct. 24 to Nov. 1 ahead of the Tuesday, Nov. 3 general election. Early voting hours will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, according to a postcard mailed to Ada voters by the clerks office. Early voting operates similarly to regular Election Day voting procedures, where voters walk in to their designated site, receive a ballot, cast their votes and put the ballot in a tabulator. Nine days of early in-person voting is required by law in Michigan, after voters passed Proposal 2 in 2022. UPDATE: Father screamed for help and ran into flames to try and save 2 children from house fire JACKSON, MI Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire Sunday morning in Jackson after two children died in the burning house. Firefighters had to battle severe heat and conditions to get to the children, ages 1 and 3, and quickly removed them, Jackson Fire Department Assistant Chief Joel Skrypec said, but they had not survived. Two adults and one Blackman-Leoni Township public safety officer also were treated for injuries after crews were called at 7:53 a.m. Feb. 8 to the fire at 943 S. Gorham St., north of Page Avenue on the east side of the city. Two dogs also died in the fire. A man was severely burned trying to get to the children, Skrypec said. He was in the front yard as emergency crews arrived; Jackson Community Ambulance was already in the area and quickly rendered aid, Skrypec said. He was taken to Henry Ford Jackson Hospital and then the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, where there is a trauma burn unit. Skrypec said a woman also was hurt, but the assistant chief was uncertain of her condition or the extent of her injuries. The officer, now OK, fell while at the scene and was evaluated and released from the Jackson hospital, Skrypec said. Firefighters found the two dogs, which Skrypec believed to be pit bulls or mixed breed, as they did a secondary search of the home. He said Michigan State Police, called whenever the city has a fatal fire, are investigating the cause, which had not yet been determined. Skrypec said he has not received any information that the fire was suspicious. The assistant chief could not say where precisely the fire began. When firefighters arrived, there were heavy fire conditions on the first floor and extending to the second floor. The children, found in their bedroom, were said to be in the area of the most extensive fire. Skrypec said the fire department could not release the childrens names and it would be up to the medical examiner to determine the causes of their deaths. Initial reports were that two people were trapped inside and firefighters arrived in five minutes, Skrypec said. He called the deaths sad and extended his sympathy to the family. The attempted rescue was traumatic for those involved, he said. Especially when such an event involves children, the crews take it hard, he said. It can have long-lasting effects. First responders were going through a critical incident stress debriefing Monday morning. Crews were on the scene until about 11:30 a.m. Sunday. The house was significantly damaged by the fire. It is uninhabitable and likely will have to be demolished, Skrypec said. FRUITPORT TWP., MI - A local government official facing a felony charge after the death of his grandson will continue to serve in his role. Gregory Hulka, 62, is a trustee on the Fruitport Township Board. He now faces a 15-year felony charge under Michigans Secure Firearm Storage Law after the shooting death of 14-year-old Rylen Yager. Hulka will continue to serve on the board, Fruitport Township Supervisor Todd Dunham told MLive on Monday, Feb. 9. Yager died Jan. 24 after a shooting in a home on Romedius Street in Fruitport Township, south of East Broadway Avenue. A 16-year-old boy who allegedly discharged the weapon is charged with manslaughter, Muskegon County Chief Trial Attorney Matt Roberts said. The teen is Rylens brother and both are Hulkas grandsons. Hulka is the first defendant in Muskegon County to be charged with a firearms safe storage violation resulting in death by a minor. During his Feb. 6 court appearance, Hulka waived all district court proceedings and was bound over to circuit court for trial. My client was extremely close to his two grandsons, said Terry Nolan, Hulkas attorney. He loves his grandsons, and he doesnt want to cause additional stress to anyone in the family. Judge Paula Baker Mathes set a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. An appearance date in circuit court was not immediately scheduled on Friday. BAY CITY, MI Months after voting to rescind millions of dollars in funding for projects across the state, including $1.6 million earmarked to support Bay Citys Lafayette Bridge replacement project, Rep. Timothy Beson, R-Bay City, has submitted a request to get the money back. Beson last week said he has taken steps in a new, more transparent process to seek the funding that was previously approved before being rescinded by the Republican-led House Appropriations Committee, which Beson is a part of. Pausing work projects was about fixing a broken system, not abandoning good projects, Beson said in a statement. I am fighting to make sure this project receives the consideration it deserves and the funding it needs to move forward. Former state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivets office announced in July 2024 that it had secured $1.6 million in the state budget that would go toward reimbursing the city for a portion of the bridge project. The money was part of a larger $102 million in funding to help reimburse communities. The Lafayette Street Bridge, one of two owned and operated by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), is currently being replaced. Demolition has already occurred, and crews have continued to work on the bridge, which could reopen in 2027. The funding was unapproved as part of a broader move by state GOP legislators to review $645 million in work projects across Michigan. According to a letter from Beson to Bay City Manager Dana Muscott, the House budget committee chose to reset the entire list of projects to implement a more transparent and accountable review. Beson stated the concern was that some projects had become catch-all slush funds for state bureaucrats, though he acknowledged that good and important projects, including the Lafayette Bridge funding for Bay City, were swept up in the process. However, a summary of the projects curated by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. presented to Beson and other members of the House Appropriations Committee and obtained by MLive/The Bay City Times through a Freedom of Information Act request shows the bridge funding was not lumped into other projects but stood alone under infrastructure spending. Beson previously said he voted to disapprove millions of dollars in bridge funding for the largest city he represents because of a perceived conflict of interest concerning the former state senator who championed the funding. Beson then told MLive that he voted to withdraw the $1.6 million earmarked for Bay City to serve as a reimbursement for the citys costs associated with the ongoing Michigan Department of Transportation Lafayette Bridge project because McDonald Rivet was married to Bay City Commissioner Joseph Rivet when the funding was originally allocated to the city. This possible conflict, Beson said, could have caused issues were the funding to be affected and the Rivets relationship came into question. McDonald Rivet noted in the Special Grant Application Form for the funding that there may have been a conflict, acknowledging that her husband was on the commission at the time. However, it had not been a noted issue until Beson cited it in his vote. The funding is not gone, Besons statement continued. It returns to the general fund and can be reinstated through the budget process. I am fighting to make sure the Bay City Bridge is prioritized and that taxpayer dollars are used effectively and transparently. KOCHVILLE TWP, MI Two former employees of Saginaw County Animal Care & Control have filed a federal lawsuit against the agencys director, alleging she fired them for blowing the whistle on improper euthanasia practices. This is the second such lawsuit filed against the director in her two years heading the agency. Attorney Kevin J. Kelly with Saginaws Mastromarco Firm on Jan. 29 filed the suit on behalf of Myah Silva and Diamond Phillips in U.S. District Court. Named as defendants are Saginaw County and Animal Care & Control Director Rachel Horton, the latter in both her official and individual capacities. The county hired Horton to replace previous director Bonnie Kanicki when she retired in January 2024. Silva and Phillips are seeking more than $75,000 in damages. Neither Horton nor Saginaw County Administrator Mary Catherine Hannah responded to queries from MLive seeking comment. Lawyers have not filed appearances yet on the defendants behalf. The suit states both plaintiffs began working for the agency as kennel aides and were eventually promoted to kennel technicians. Phillips began her employment in November 2020 while Silva started in November 2023 through a temp agency. Saginaw County directly hired Silva in April 2024. In early August 2024, the agencys veterinarian of record, Dr. Joseph Kline, discovered Horton had allegedly allowed non-certified staff to euthanize animals, a violation of county policy and state law. Click here to read the entire, 39-page lawsuit. Michigan administrative rules mandate non-veterinarians who sedate or euthanize animals with tranquilizers must have 16 hours of training, including four hours of practical training with a licensed veterinarian. The euthanasia process involves the use of controlled substances ketamine, xylazine, and pentobarbital. Saginaw County Animal Care & Control Director Rachel Horton Cole Waterman Kline attended a meeting of the Animal Control Advisory Council and again reported untrained personnel were euthanizing animals. Horton and County Administrator Hannah attended the meeting. The next morning, Horton sent Kline an email stating his contract would not be renewed, though he had already worked for a month since his contract lapsed the previous month, records previously obtained by MLive show. Horton also sent an email to Animal Control staff stating the decision to terminate Klines contract was made after hearing his viewpoint on shelter operations, the lawsuit states. Kline on Sept. 17, 2024, attended a Saginaw County Board of Commissioners meeting and again reported the alleged illicit euthanasia practices, the suit states. Two days later, a staffer told Phillips they had seen Horton order an uncertified technician to euthanize a dog, the suit states. This technician tried euthanizing the dog with a syringe filled with sodium pentobarbital, but due to insufficient training, was unable to complete the procedure, requiring Horton and a certified technician to restrain the dog, the suit states. The same day, the uncertified technician told Silva they had administered controlled substances during a euthanasia procedure at Hortons direction, the suit states. Silva wrote an email to Commissioner Chairman Christopher S. Boyd on Sept. 22, 2024, affirming Klines allegations and claiming Horton and Shelter Manager Alicia Slack were making medical decisions for animals without consulting the veterinarian of record. The countys Personnel Department replied that attorney Gregory W. Mair would investigate. Mair interviewed Silva and Phillips on several occasions, during which they reiterated their belief that Horton had violated the law by having uncertified individuals perform euthanasia. After this, Horton and Slack began retaliating against Silva and Phillips, their suit alleges. Horton issued Silva a performance improvement plan, which did not indicate how her work had been substandard. Slack also sent Horton and others an email in which she alleged Phillips was not following a new schedule that had not yet taken effect, demonstrating Defendants were retaliating against her by creating bogus reasons for pretextual discipline, the suit states. County Administrator Hannah on Nov. 7, 2024, sent Horton a counseling memo outlining Mairs findings and recommendations. Mair found a single violation regarding the administration of a controlled substance during a June 2024 euthanasia procedure, according to records previously obtained by MLive. During the investigation, Mr. Mair noted that he believed you were genuine in your statements to him that you believed you could observe and direct an uncertified individual to administer a sedative as a part of a euthanasia procedure, Hannah wrote. This was a violation of shelter policy and operating procedures, she added. Hannah went on to remind Horton the law is clear in that an employee can only administer such drugs if they have completed euthanasia training given by a licensed veterinarian. You must follow shelter policy/operating procedure and state law at all times with respect to the euthanasia process and other shelter operations, Hannah wrote to Horton. To that end you are required to review all shelter policies/operating procedures and relevant state laws relating to euthanasia. Silva in January 2025 requested a copy of Mairs investigative report from County Personnel Director Jennifer Broadfoot. Broadfoot replied the report could not be released as it would violate attorney-client privilege, the suit states. Silva then tried to obtain the report via the Freedom of Information Act, but this was also denied, the suit states. In April 2025, Silva and another kennel tech were euthanizing a group of rabbits when Horton entered the room and told them they could give the rabbits intracardiac injections of sodium pentobarbital without first tranquilizing them, the suit states. Silva objected, but Horton replied this was an acceptable method and would be quicker and more effective, the suit alleges. Silva replied that her training and state law prohibited her from heart-sticking a conscious, non-anesthetized animal and refused to participate, the suit states. Horton performed two such injections on rabbits herself, something Silva verified with a photocopy of the agencys Drug Disposition Record, the suit states. Silva notified Broadfoot of this via email, who replied the county would look into her claims. Shortly thereafter, the county retaliated by incrementally reducing Silvas work shifts, the suit alleges. The county again retained Mair to investigate. Silva and Phillips met with him in May and June 2025 to share their concerns, their suit states. Also in June 2025, Horton allegedly ordered the euthanasia of a dog Silva had openly discussed fostering or adopting. Silva met with her union representative, who informed her Horton had been wanting to fire her but the county would not allow her to do so, the suit states. On a Sunday in July, Slack sent a message to shelter staff telling them to euthanize a dog named Myra. The shelter was short-staffed that day, so Silva and Phillips repeatedly called and texted Slack and Horton to state they did not have enough time to euthanize Myra. The next day, Silva offered to foster Myra but Slack refused and the dog was subsequently euthanized, the suit states. Phillips again contacted the Personnel Department, reporting conditions at the shelter had worsened, the suit states. Horton on July 8 placed Silva and Phillips on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into why Myra had not been euthanized as instructed, the suit states. The county informed them a few days later that Mairs investigation into their complaints found no policy violations, the suit states. Silva and Phillips in August 2025 filed formal complaints with the county alleging retaliation and harassment. The county replied that attorney Brandon Fournier would investigate their claims. As Plaintiffs approached four months of being on administrative leave, the suit states, it became clear to them that Defendant Horton wanted to terminate their employment and [they] remained on leave for such a lengthy period of time while Defendants figured out a way to pretextually justify terminating their employment. The county in October 2025 informed Silva and Phillips it was eliminating their positions and they would be laid off. However, they could apply for a new position that was being created, one which paid less and was not part of a collective bargaining union, the suit states. Plaintiffs were forced to either accept a lay off or apply for a demotion with less pay and no union rights, the suit states. Phillips and Silvas union reps filed grievances on their behalf. About this time, attorney Fournier wrapped his investigation by concluding no policy violations had taken place. The county eliminated Silva and Phillips employment on Oct. 31, 2025. The suit contains two counts: free speech violation and retaliation in violation of the Michigan Whistleblowers Protection Act. Dr. Kline filed his own federal lawsuit against Horton and Saginaw County in May 2025, alleging they publicly defamed him when he reported illegal euthanasia. Klines suit contains four counts: free speech retaliation, age discrimination in violation of the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, defamation, and false light invasion of privacy. That case is set for jury trial on Aug. 4. Kline also filed an animal cruelty complaint with the Michigan State Police, alleging Horton allowed two dogs with broken legs to go untreated for a substantial time. Prosecutors reviewed the matter and opted not to file criminal charges. (Editors note: Today MLive is launching a series of stories on the candidates running for governor. We have narrowed down the pool to those with more than $3 million dollars to spend on the race, either through fundraising or personal funds. The candidates will be presented in alphabetical order throughout the week, starting today with Jocelyn Benson.) Jocelyn Benson would like voters to know that she stood up to President Donald Trump in a way that none of Michigans other gubernatorial candidates have and that some wouldnt want to. Thats to say, she certified the 2020 election results in the face of intense pressure from the president and a visit by armed protestors to her Detroit home. She would also like voters to know that she has made government work better. As Michigans Secretary of State, she has reduced wait times for in-person visits from about an hour to about 20 minutes by implementing an appointment system, putting kiosks in publicly accessible spaces and bringing services directly to residents with mobile offices. Shes promising to focus her administrative acumen on making Michigan more affordable for average people, to bring down costs for housing, energy and childcare, to take a broken healthcare system and transform it to make sure were showing up for people. Im the only candidate in this race who has shown that I know how to run state government well in a way that will save citizens time, save them money and make their lives easier, and also be willing, not just to work with anyone to get things done, but stand up to anyone who would get in the way of that, Benson, the races Democratic frontrunner, said in a 15-minute interview with MLive. Others in this race have shown just the opposite. Benson isnt facing a serious challenge in the Democratic primary. Lieutenant Gov. Garlin Gilchrist dropped out of the race in January to run for secretary of state. Her only remaining rival with any widespread support is Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, who has been polling in the single digits. She is facing a serious challenge from Republican frontrunner John James, a Shelby Township congressman. Most polls put James a percentage point or two ahead of her, though within the margin of error. James only began campaigning in earnest in January. Hes facing a potentially bruising Republican primary. Where hes begun to attack Benson, it has focused on an area where Republicans seems to think shes vulnerable: the way shes administered the states elections. Voting Benson called a press conference in late January to explain that a Republican county clerks allegation that hed found 15 non-citizens registered to vote wasnt everything it appeared to be. An investigation by her office found that just one of the individuals flagged by Macomb County Clerk Anthony Forlini had voted illegally and that was in 2018 when Republican Terri Lynn Land was Secretary of State. The others were either U.S. citizens, noncitizens whose registration had been cancelled or had been asked to verify their citizenship. While national and state reviews prove again and again that it is very rare, I take any reports of illegal voting in our state very seriously, Benson said. Her opponents in the Republican Party have been trying to give the impression that she doesnt. James called Forlini a hero, adding that we are now uncovering what is turning out to be at least seven years of fleecing the people of the state of Michigan, robbing you of your constitutional right to know that one vote, one citizen, and that your voice counts. Benson has faced dozens of election-related lawsuits since she took office in 2019, more than the last four secretaries of state combined, according to data compiled by the Legislative Service Bureau. Which, her campaigns attorney Mark Brewer argued, is not an indication of wrongdoing but of a Republican determination to create the impression that there is. What they are trying to do is say, Oh, theres X volume of lawsuits and therefore something must be going on, he said. Benson won most of those lawsuits. She lost a few. A Court of Claims judge, for instance, took issue with her guidance that absentee ballot signatures should be approached with an initial presumption of validity but upheld her other rules for signature verification. The state Supreme Court overturned her guidance on the sort of discretion poll workers could exercise in recording election challenges, while otherwise upholding her other guidance for such challenges. Jim Runestad, chairman of the Michigan GOP, insisted that her losses are not inconsequential, and then shes going to oversee her own election. The Republican-controlled state House of Representatives filed articles of impeachment against her in June, alleging abuse of authority and mishandling of election records. Republican state Rep. James DeSana called her the most lawless Secretary of State in Michigan history. Benson dismissed it as a clown show. In November, Republican legislators asked the federal government for comprehensive oversight of the 2026 election. But statewide audits conducted by election officials from both parties have not revealed any significant problems with the states elections. Benson noted the MIT Election Data and Science Lab ranked the administration of Michigans 2022 elections second in the nation. The state had a ranking of 31st when she took office in 2019. Weve made it easier to vote, she said. Weve brought the ability to vote early in person or in the privacy of citizens own homes to every citizen in the state. And we lead the nation in turnout among young voters. All of that work weve done successfully and effectively, even with a barrage of attacks and misinformation thats been flowing into our state since the 2020 election, she said. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson with Lily, the two-month-old Labrador Retriever mix that she adopted from the Subaru Loves Animals booth during the Detroit Auto Show at Huntington Place in Detroit on Tuesday, Jan. 14 2026. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Purposeful Benson opened The Purposeful Warrior, the political memoir she published last year, with a story about her decision not to give in Trumps debunked claims that the 2020 election had been stolen. She never wavered in her decision to certify the election results that year, she wrote, even if the president of the United States himself threatened me with prison (he did). Even if a mob of armed protestors descended on my front porch, wrongly accusing me of stealing the election (they did). The states next governor needs to be able to use every tool in the toolbox to stand up to anyone, including the President of the United States, who would abuse their authority, overreach their power or threaten our rights, our freedoms, our elections, our democracy, she said. James, she added, has demonstrated that hell bend the kneeat every opportunity. Duggan A possible roadblock looming for Bensons campaign is former Detroit Mayor Duggan, who is mounting what may be the first viable independent run for governor in the states history, hoping to appeal to voters on all sides who are tired of partisan division. Duggan is polling several percentage points behind both Benson and James, but he spent most of his career as a Wayne County Democrat, and at least some of the polls so far indicate that his appeal is stronger with Democrats than with Republicans. Were in a moment where political leaders with courage and the ability to stand up for people are of short supply, Benson said, when asked about Duggan. One of the criticisms that Democrats have started directing at the former mayor is that he hasnt meaningfully stood up to Trump. I think its really important that we as Democrats and as Michiganders, support and elect leaders who are honest to stand up for and live by our shared values and who are willing to be courageous and do the right thing, Benson added, in an understated dig, not try to hide or run from who we are because its politically expedient to do so. Asked about his opponents, Duggan said who the Democrats and Republicans nominate is not my concern. Her campaign is outraising those of both her likely opponents, pulling in $5.7 million last year to Duggans $5 million and James $4.5 million. But James had another source of support. Members of the DeVos family and other donors have also created a $5.8 million Super PAC to back his campaign. Achievement Theres a certain sense of unremitting achievement to Bensons career. At Wellesley College, she was named one of Glamour magazines top 10 college women for 1998 and elected to the Wellesley Town Meeting, a local legislative body with 240 voting members. She went to Oxford University as a Marshall Scholar and to Harvard Law School and clerked for federal Judge Damon Keith in Detroit. She became a professor at Wayne State University Law School at 27 and dean of the law school at 35, arguing in her book that changes she made set it on a path to a significant jump in the rankings. She began her first and only unsuccessful run for secretary of state when she was 31 and won the job when she was 41. She says shell bring the same efficiency to state government that she brought to the Department of State over the last seven years: modernizing regulatory systems so businesses can thrive, building a childcare system that supports both kids and the workers who take care of them, counteracting rising housing costs by building more homes faster, lowering healthcare costs and improving care. But Republicans have made much of a few missteps. Bugs in a new campaign finance and lobbying disclosure portal. The fact that she violated campaign finance laws by announcing her candidacy in the lobby of a state building. Or the fact that Benson, who once volunteered investigating white supremacists for the Southern Poverty Law Center, was sued by four Black employees of the Michigan Department of State, who allege she and other leaders engage in a pattern of regular, repeated and systemic racial discrimination. A Benson spokesperson called those allegations absolutely false. I think most people in the political class recognize that she didnt come out of the box ready for prime time, said Republican strategist Jason Cabel Roe. But Jeff Timmer, a political strategist and chief operating officer of the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump organization founded by moderate conservatives, said shes already well positioned as a normal, regular, mainstream progressive Democrat, unapologetically progressive, but very willing and able to work with and consolidate and attract middle and center right. The key at this point in the campaign, he said, is to take that message to Duggans home turf, to now go out and kind of run for mayor in the next several months to build up and solidify that overwhelming Democratic majority in Detroit. If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. Some high-speed action at the rink in Milan on Monday, as the Womens 1,000-meter Speed Skating finals are set to take place at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Speed Skating has been part of the Winter Games calendar since the first-ever edition of the Winter Olympiad in 1924. It forces athletes to utilize a variety of skills and talents, including speed, stability and durability. Olympics Streaming Options FuboTV Sling DirecTV Stream Peacock Price/month $84.99 $35.00 $69.99 $10.99 Free Trial? Yes No Yes No Length 7 days N/A 5 days N/A Deal $20 off first month $10 off first month None None Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe The 1000m race is closer to a sprint for speed skaters, as competitors do not have time to set a pace in a shorter race. As is tradition, the Netherlands has a number of athletes who have the potential to medal in the event. Femke Kok, Marrit Fledderus and Jutta Leerdam are among the top-ranked 1000m skaters heading into the Winter Games. It was Leerdam who won the silver medal in Beijing four years ago. They will have to beat defending Olympic champion Miho Takagi. While she has not been as strong heading into Milan, the Japanese athlete can pull a rabbit out of the hat. American Brittany Bowe is another athlete to keep an eye. The reigning Olympic bronze medalist has kept with the Dutch skaters so far this season. SPEED SKATING Womens 1,000 Meters When: Monday, February 9 Time: 11:30 a.m ET Where: Milano Speed Skating Stadium (Milan, Italy) Channel: USA Network, NBC (12 p.m.) The first locally manufactured Range Rover Evoque rolls out from Tata' new plant in Panapakkam, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu. Tesla currently operates 16 supercharging stations and 14 destination charging stations in India. Did our AI summary help? MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more. 3 / 8 Indias Daughter (India on Netflix) - This documentary on the 2012 Delhi gang rape was banned by Indian courts and the government, leading Netflix to block access in India. Authorities cited concerns over public order and dignity of the victim, making it one of the most high-profile cases of a complete OTT documentary ban. Did our AI summary help? Imran Khan says divorce from Avantika Malik helped him heal Did our AI summary help? Priyanka Chopra wraps Hyderabad shoot, flies to LA with a piece of Hyderabad with her When Saif Ali Khan insists he never pressured Amrita Singh to change her religion to Islam after their marriage Golmaal 5 is NOT based on Do Aur Do Paanch, Rohit Shetty issues strong clarification, warns against misreporting Did our AI summary help? The Secret Agent will soon arrive in Indian theatres Did our AI summary help? During the conversation, Halle addressed the widespread rumours suggesting she had turned down Van Hunts proposal. Neena Gupta reveals she was abused on a film set, said, "Director ne maa-behen ki gaali di but paison ki jarurat thi isly..." Did our AI summary help? Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news. Did our AI summary help? Vaishnavi Gavankar is a senior entertainment journalist with over 8 years of experience covering Bollywood, Television, OTT platforms, and regional cinema. Did our AI summary help? Allu Arjun drew a lot of attention during his visit to Dubai for Sirishs grand pre-wedding party. Did our AI summary help? Ragini Jaiswal Entertainment journalist and content writer with 3+ years of experience covering Bollywood, lifestyle trends, and celebrity stories across leading digital platforms. Did our AI summary help? Nityaami Shirke is married to her boyfriend When Rahul Roy revealed Salman Khan paid his pending medical bills after brain stroke, "this man is gem, log kehte hai wo aisa hai, waisa hai..." When Saif Ali Khan revealed he speaks with ex-wife Amrita Singh when he is in hospital bed, Things didnt work out between us, I was just 21..." From smartwatches to glucose monitors, wearable devices are quietly reshaping how we track health and how doctors detect problems before symptoms begin. (Image: Pexels) Did our AI summary help? Viswanath Pilla is a business journalist with 16 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, Pilla covers pharma, healthcare and infrastructure sectors for Moneycontrol. Commerce minister says India pursued an offensive interest in farm exports while protecting dairy, staples and soy, dismissing fears over DDGS imports. Ministry of Civil Aviation tells airlines Indian leadership may better reflect Indias aviation identity, but clarifies it has no role in CEO appointments. Shares of Kalyan Jewellers have been witnessing heightened volatility in the last one year despite steady earnings. Defence, energy, technology, and electronics are among the key segments for imports. Zoya Springwala is a Senior Correspondent, writing on the markets, financial institutions, regulatory changes and everything else in between. Did our AI summary help? Ayush Mishra is a personal finance journalist specialising in banking, credit, and taxation. With experience at Business Standard, he delivers engaging stories that make complex financial decisions easier to navigate. Did our AI summary help? Why a Muslim can will away only 1/3 of their property Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Tata Steel's managing director welcomed the exclusion of CBAM from the FTA framework Did our AI summary help? Lakshman Roy is Economic Policy Editor and Chief of Bureau at @CNBC_Awaaz Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran A printed copy of former Army chief MM Naravanes memoir surfaced in Parliament despite pending Defence Ministry clearance, raising questions over how the book reached print. Bhagwat said the RSS remained steadfast to causes such as the Ram temple movement, adding that those who stood by the issue eventually benefited. The MPs said they are being targeted for consistently holding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government accountable. Inspections aim to map safety gaps at nearly 400 non-ATC airstrips used by charters and politicians, following the January 28 Baramati plane crash. Chinese firms are known to have technological prowess. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK The company currently has a fleet of more than 44 aircraft operating in India. Sources say the total corpus of EPFO is close to Rs 26 lakh crore, and the total number of active subscribers, or contributing members, is around 7.5 crore. The India-led AI Impact Summit will be the fourth in the series of global AI summits Lawrence Bishnois gang also claimed responsibility for the murder of Muslim politician, Baba Siddique, in 2024. India is preparing to clear its biggest fighter jet purchase ever114 Rafale F4s from France. Heres the full breakdown: numbers, cost, delivery, Make in India, and what the deal fixes for the IAF. The elections to 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis concluded on Saturday with an overall voter turnout of 68.28 per cent Abdul Rahman, arrested for allegedly plotting an attack on the Ram Temple, was assaulted by another inmate inside Neemka jail; authorities review prison security. The situation follows the Union Health Ministrys decision to significantly lower NEET-PG qualifying thresholds for the 2025-26 academic session, allowing candidates with extremely low, and in some cases, negative scores to participate in counselling. The counting of votes for elections to 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis in Maharashtra is currently underway. Parliament budget session live: The government is scared to have a debate, says Rahul Gandhi Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says, "The agreement is that we'll be allowed to say these points, and then the discussion should happen. So we are quite keen that the discussion happens. We want oh the discussion to happen, but now let us see what the government says. My personal view is that the government is scared to have a debate. The Prime Minister didn't come into the House because he was scared of what we were going to say. He was scared of being handed General Naravane's book as a first step. My guess is that the government is worried about having a debate on the budget because the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, what has happened, the impact on our farmers is going to be discussed, and the government doesn't want to do that..." The detention came a day after Surya was served a notice for holding a protest at the metro station without prior permission. The Congress leader accused Sarma of sitting on the SIT report for six months despite repeatedly claiming to possess evidence of Gogois alleged Pakistan links. Chouhan said the agreement was not merely commercial but also reflected Indias growing global stature. Banuchandar Nagarajan is a graduate of Harvard University with a Masters degree in Public Administration. He has had stints at the World Bank, UNDP and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He has worked in key positions in the Indian parliamentary election campaigns of 2009, '14 and '19. Till recently, he was the advisor to Minister of Human Resources Development. He has been a frequent columnist and a TV panelist. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Ashwani Mahajan is a professor at PGDAV College, University of Delhi, and the national co-convener of the Swadeshi Jagran Manch. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. China again urges Takaichi to withdraw wrongful remarks on Taiwan after Japan's general election Xinhua) 16:24, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- China once again urges Japan to withdraw the erroneous remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan and demonstrate its basic sincerity in safeguarding the political foundation of China-Japan relations through concrete actions, a foreign ministry spokesperson said here Monday. Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing after Japan's ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party won more than a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives following Sunday's general election. Lin said elections are a domestic matter in Japan, but some deep-seated, structural issues and ideological trends reflected in this election were worthy of deep consideration by insightful people from all walks of life in Japan and the international community. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) After having interviewed close to 120 candidates in her previous roles, Komal Khemani said the interaction with the bank's recruiters left her angry and humiliated. 'I was so angry at the HR,' she said. (Image credit: Moneycontrol) Indian family explains what OCI status allows and restricts. (Image credit: snehafamilytales/ Instagram) Originally from Haryana, Vikas and his family have been living in Pune for about a decade and over the last few months, his parents have been egging him to get married. (Right) His 'tracker' Excel sheet. (Image credit: Moneycontrol) China's Change six mission reveals how a giant impact reshaped the moons hidden interior. (Image: Heng-Ci Tian) Gray Wolf spotted in LA for the first time in century. (Image: California Department of Fish and Wildlife) Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Christin Mathew Philip is a Senior Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol.com with 15 years of experience in journalism and a recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award. Based in Bengaluru, he understands the pulse of the people and covers issues that matter, including mobility, infrastructure, start-ups, and government policies. He tweets at @ChristinMP_ Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences. The Ministry of Tourism has rolled out standardised adventure safety guidelines to curb mishaps and strengthen safety norms across adventure tourism destinations in India. Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences. A lower TCS could also translate into more premium packages as Indian travellers are already preferring shelling out more to upgrade their international trips. Arishaa Izaj is a sub-editor at Moneycontrol, where she covers Indian politics and international affairs. She has earlier worked with the Hindustan Times print desk. When she is not editing copies or tracking global developments, she can be found relaxing with her cat or heading out on her bike. | X & IG: arishaa_izaj Irans Supreme Leader Khamenei skipped the annual air force commanders meeting for the first time since 1989, amid rising US-Iran tensions. Analysts suggest this signals strategic restraint as nuclear talks continue and fears of a US military strike grow. Did our AI summary help? Trump calls US elections rigged and backs Save America Act to tighten voting rules PM Modis Malaysia visit deepened IndiaMalaysia ties and sent a strong anti-terrorism message, indirectly targeting Pakistan. Pakistan responded with hurried naval diplomacy, highlighting its strategic discomfort as Indias Act East Policy gains regional credibility. Did our AI summary help? Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized Pakistans foreign and security policies, saying the country has lost all its friends due to flawed decisions and military overreach. He cited stalled CPEC progress, collapsed Afghan trade, and growing regional isolation. Did our AI summary help? Tensions between Iran and the US have escalated, with Iran warning it will target US bases in the region if attacked. Irans missile arsenal covers most US Gulf bases, making its deterrence credible amid stalled diplomacy and rising regional conflict fears. Did our AI summary help? Pakistans healthcare faces strain as India halts cost-effective vaccine exports after May 2025 military conflict. With no local production and international aid set to end by 2031, Pakistan risks soaring import bills amid rising demand and economic challenges. Did our AI summary help? File Photo of PM Modi and US President Donald Trump From Khaleda Zia posters to BNPJamaat clashes: Bangladesh on edge ahead of elections Newly released Epstein Files reveal Jeffrey Epsteins persistent efforts to meet Russian President Putin, frequent contact with senior Russian officials, and attempts to position himself as a valuable informal channel between Washington and Moscow. Did our AI summary help? Newly released Epstein Files show Jeffrey Epstein signed a will two days before his 2019 death, leaving $100 million and properties to girlfriend Karyna Shuliak. Over 40 others, including Ghislaine Maxwell, were named as beneficiaries amid ongoing estate litigation. Did our AI summary help? Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein are seen in this image released by the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., U.S., on December 19, 2025 as part of a new trove of documents from its investigations into the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Japan's Prime Minister and President of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Sanae Takaichi (L) waves to the people upon her arrival to deliver a campaign speech ahead of the House of Representatives election, at Rekisen Park in Tokyo on February 7, 2026. (Photo by Philip FONG / AFP) Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailands prime minister, at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters on election night in Bangkok. Bloomberg The disturbing rise of violence without a cause UBS managed up to $19 million for Ghislaine Maxwell after Epstein split with JPMorgan US Congressman says parts of Dallas feel like Pakistan, sparks backlash US official says China secretly tested a nuclear device days after Galwan clash What the new Epstein documents reveal about his efforts to connect with Putin and Russian officials UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a major crisis over Peter Mandelsons links to Jeffrey Epstein. Mandelsons appointment and leaked emails have triggered resignations and calls for Starmer to step down, with leadership challenges and elections looming. Did our AI summary help? February 9, 2026 Trump Administration Asserts Ambition To Dominate Energy Sector The U.S. is trying to dominate the control global energy sector and to control the routes through which energy is delivered to global customer. That accusation is made by Russias Foreign Minister Lavrov in an interview to the TV BRICS media network. The interview also touches on other aspects. The excerpts from the interview posted below are only the ones which regard to energy issues (emphasis added): Multiple centres of rapid economic growth, power, and financial and political influence have thus emerged. The world is being reshaped through competition. The West is reluctant to relinquish its formerly dominant positions. Moreover, with the arrival of the Trump administration, this struggle to constrain competitors has become particularly obvious and explicit. Indeed, the Trump administration openly asserts its ambition to dominate in the energy sector and harness their competitors. Blatantly unfair methods are being used against us: the operations of Russian oil companies such as Lukoil and Rosneft are being banned, and there are attempts to dictate and restrict Russias trade, investment cooperation, and military-technical ties with our major strategic partners, including India as well as other BRICS states. All of these geopolitical confrontations, along with the attempts to derail the objective course of history, inevitably affect bilateral relations. I am not going to mention them all; those include sanctions, the so-called shadow fleet invented by the West, attempts to detain vessels by military force in the open sea in blatant violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and much more. Tariffs imposed for purchasing oil or gas from certain suppliers have now become commonplace. They tell us that the Ukraine problem should be resolved. In Anchorage, we accepted the US proposal. If we regard it as men, it means that they proposed it and we agreed, so the problem must be resolved. So far, the reality is quite the opposite: new sanctions are imposed, a war against tankers in the open sea is being waged in violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. They are trying to ban India and our other partners from buying cheap, affordable Russian energy resources (Europe has long been banned) and are forcing them to buy US LNG at exorbitant prices. This means that the Americans have set themselves the task of achieving economic domination. Furthermore, while they ostensibly made a proposal regarding Ukraine and we were ready to accept it (now they are not), we do not see any bright future in the economic sphere either. The Americans want to take control of all the routes for providing the worlds leading countries and all continents with energy resources. On the European continent, they are eyeing the Nord Streams, which were blown up three years ago, the Ukrainian gas transportation system and the TurkStream. This illustrates that the US objective to dominate the world economy is being realised using a fairly large number of coercive measures that are incompatible with fair competition. Tariffs, sanctions, direct prohibitions, forbidding some from engaging with others we have to take all of this into account. A NY Times piece published today on Trumps oil grab in Venezuela makes, in part, a similar point (archived): In China, a foreign ministry spokeswoman said last month that Mr. Trump was bullying Venezuela to give up its oil. Spain joined with five Latin American countries, including Mexico and Brazil, in denouncing the external appropriation of Venezuelas natural resources as illegal. Mr. Trump has sought to turn the tables, charging that Venezuela took our oil away from us and stole our assets in 2007 when it increased state control over its oil industry and forced two of the three U.S. companies operating in the country to abandon their projects at considerable expense. Whether that is Mr. Trumps true motivation is unclear. He has asserted a U.S. right to take the oil from other countries, from Iraq to Syria to Libya, although he has not previously done so. That is a sharp break from decades of precedent, A high gambit strategy to control global energy does not fall from the sky: Where is the policy paper that has laid out the plans for doing this? Who has written it? Who is the point person in the White House that is driving this strategy? Please point to answers for these questions. Comments A drone view of a pump jack and drilling rig south of Midland, Texas, June 11, 2025. REUTERS SINGAPORE (Reuters) Oil prices fell 1% on Monday as immediate fears of a conflict in the Middle East eased after the U.S. and Iran pledged to continue talks about Tehrans nuclear program over the weekend, calming investors anxious about supply disruptions. Brent crude futures fell 67 cents, or 1%, to $67.38 a barrel on Monday by 0444 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $62.94 a barrel, down 61 cents, or 1%. With more talks on the horizon the immediate fear of supply disruptions in the Middle East has eased quite a bit, IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said. Iran and the U.S. pledged to continue the indirect nuclear talks following what both sides described as positive discussions on Friday in Oman despite differences. That allayed fears that failure to reach a deal might nudge the Middle East closer to war, as the U.S. has positioned more military forces in the area. Investors are also worried about possible disruptions to supply from Iran and other regional producers as exports equal to about a fifth of the worlds total oil consumption pass through the Strait of Hormuz between Oman and Iran. Both benchmarks fell more than 2% last week on the easing tensions, their first decline in seven weeks. However, Irans foreign minister said on Saturday Tehran will strike U.S. bases in the Middle East if it is attacked by U.S. forces, showing the threat of conflict is still alive. Volatility remains elevated as conflicting rhetoric persists. Any negative headlines could quickly reignite risk premiums in oil prices this week, said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova. Investors are also continuing to grapple with efforts to curb Russian income from its oil exports for its war in Ukraine. The European Commission on Friday proposed a sweeping ban on any services that support Russias seaborne crude oil exports. Refiners in India, once the biggest buyer of Russias seaborne crude, are avoiding purchases for delivery in April and are expected to stay away from such trades for longer, refining and trade sources said, which could help New Delhi seal a trade pact with Washington. Weaker oil prices saw the energy majors profits drop 11% to the lowest level in five years. Oil markets will remain sensitive to how broadly this pivot away from Russian crude unfolds, whether Indias reduced purchases persist beyond April, and how quickly alternative flows can be brought online, Sachdeva said. THE Truth Be Told, the History Channel was RIGHT, about If WE dont learn the lessons taught by history, WE are DOOMED to repeat the SAME-O Mistakes. But I must first reiterate and pay homage to my mother, Gladys MaDear Bennett who was honored on February 7th in 2019, with our home being recognized by the Tennessee Historic Society as a National Historic Site. For me & our family it was a tremendous honor especially during Black History Month for the work our MaDear accomplished in creating the first, and probably the only, Technical School for Blacks to become Seamstress & Taylors after leaving the Cotton Fields to the Cities in search of new jobs. Our 1800s double-shotgun home of 7 bedrooms was also a B&B for Blacks who couldnt stay in hotels, as there were Cadillacs, Lincolns and even a Rolls Royce in our driveway once. More recently, the Tennessee State Assembly also named the Walkway over the Expressway near our home in honor of MaDear, the Gladys MaDear Bennett Memorial Walkway, as she started the Petition to get the walkway built. The walkway is the first advertisement drivers will see entering Memphis from Arkansas and the last they will see leaving Memphis to cross the Mississippi into Arkansas. Needless to say, Black History Month is very special for my family and the entire Nation that is celebrated by All Patriotic Americans regardless of race who have compassion and truly appreciate African Americans and their American Struggles! If you are paying attention to whats happening on the mainland, then you KNOW the racist nature of Trump has been fully exposed with the ugly post of the Obamas as apes for Black History Month. I can remember leaning how WE went from first being called Jungle-bunnies, to Negros & Ni**ers, to Blacks to finally being recognized with the Proper name of African Americans. For a people who came to America as slaves WE have come a very long ways with a long path still to travel if OUR Nation, including the CNMI, to live up to its creed of All Men being created EQUAL! I know there are many in the older generation of Chamorros/Carolinians who visited or lived on the mainland can attest to being called the N-word and even treated like they were Black. The bigot-racism in America is against ALL-People-of-Color is still alive & well under Trump and thats WHY Dr. King included All-of-US in his Dream for a Better America because he KNEW the War was not over just because of the Civil Rights Act! WE must ALL continue to FIGHT for Dr. Kings & the American Dream. Black History Month is just a reminder of the contributions & sacrifices of Blacks to create the American Dream. It is GREAT to be reminded & KUDOS to CNMI Founder & My Dear Friend the late Edward Pangelinan who did attend the March in Washington when Dr. King delivered his Prophetic Speech to America about his Dream FOR All People of Color who are in the Same-O Boat of Racial Inequality. In fact, the impotency of the Delegate to deliver any real financial support from Our-Fathers-in-Washington like Kilili used to DO is PROOF the People of the CNMI are in the Same-DEI Boat that has been sunk by Trump! Hard times are usually the catalyst for uniting the People against the injustices in America but the silence in the CNMI is deafening! I only see mostly mainland White Americans with a handful of Locals who are staging protests against Trumps injustices thats destroying OUR Democracy when there should be massive protest like WE see on the mainland to create NEW CNMI History for CHANGE in the pursuit of Prosperity for ALL! The majority cant be satisfied with our destitute & declining economic conditions which WHY the Silent Majority needs to start speaking up in the CNMI! The CNMI has lost many Indigenous soldiers who died fighting in foreign lands FOR People they didnt know so they could experience Equality & Democracy. However, theres hypocrisy in the CNMI with no respect for their sacrifices and where are the indigenous PATRIOTS when WE need them the most! The CNMI could use a dozen or more Indigenous Leaders/Citizens to lead who can see beyond culture to the QUEST for the American Dream FOR All Americans thats tied directly to OUR Economy, which needs to be RESURECTED! There is all kind of attention being given to finding Tourists from other countries even BEGGING for Chinese with the Philippines being the latest nation added to the search list that has yet to deliver the tourists numbers needed to Reboot & Fuel OUR Economic Engine. However, WE the CNM have lost and even forgotten the objective of being part of America, as the inclusion of America in our efforts to REFORM the CNMI is all-important to the success of the Economy. No one is searching for American Investor-Attractions, American Tourists & American Residents in the CNMI that can surely ignite the Economic Reforms needed for perpetual prosperity. In fact, when it comes to Americans in the CNMI it is virtually a virgin market, as most Americans in the CNMI are only a Renter-Class and here only because they THOUGHT they would be on an island but still in America, self-included. But the CNMI is turning out to BE a third-world country after two decades of Republicans taking us BACKWARDS! However, while the Senate is ALL-About-Power, KUDOS and THANKS to Senator Babauta, the only minority Democrat in the Senate, for asking the U.S. military to designate the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport as a gateway of the U.S. Air Forces Air Mobility Command or AMC, for questioning the role of the Commonwealth Casino Commission in the government now that the casino industry is gone, for asking NMC to consider a partnership with Taiwans government for a nursing program and recently for her Bill to Limit Legislature Allotments as she is truly living up to her fiduciary duties to work & fight FOR the People even while facing & dealing with extraordinary legislative & family challenges. She needs to know that many of us appreciate her work and WE are praying for Franklin, her Dearest Husband & OUR Exceptional CNMI Citizen! But WE will see what the Legislature will do about their OWN WASTE so start taking names of the impotent leaders & leave no prisoners come November in the Voting Booth! Second to Protest, voting was the primary tool in liberating African Americans in History, so its really on YOU CNMI-Voters to improve the CNMI with BETTER Leaders. So PLEASE listen to the wisdom of the Teacher and Do-Your-Homework before voting to make NEW CNMI History! Happy Black History Month, especially to All People of Color! One People, One Direction. Ambrose M. Bennett is an Economist who minored in Sociology, a Political Scientist, a retired teacher & former CNMI Board of Education Member, a James Madison Fellow (U.S. Constitutional Scholar), a Fulbright-Hays-Lifetime Humanities & Religious Scholar who resides in Kagman III in the U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. By Emmanuel T. Erediano [email protected] Variety News Staff GOVERNOR David M. Apatang said Monday that he is 100% in support of Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds proposal to extend the CNMI-Only Transitional Worker program for another 10 years. King-Hinds draft proposal seeks to amend federal law. She is inviting review and feedback from the governor and other CNMI leaders before formally introducing the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. In an interview Monday, the governor said he was working on his response to King-Hinds invitation and hoped to send his letter by Wednesday. The governor said he supports King-Hinds bill because he sees the importance of extending the CW program through Dec. 31, 2039. He said he attended the CNMI Department of Labors job fair at the Crowne Plaza Resort on Friday and saw large crowds at each booth, with people looking for jobs. Still, he said, we need our foreign labor. We dont have a lot of the expertise that is needed here. Construction workers, for example those are the things that we need help with, he said. In addition to extending the CW program, King-Hinds proposal seeks to address long-standing issues in the current transition framework, including enforcement challenges and statutory requirements that place unnecessary burdens on employers. The bill would strengthen enforcement tools, dedicate additional resources to compliance, remove the touch-back requirement, and grant the governor authority comparable to that exercised by Guam in supporting labor determinations, King-Hinds said. Emmanuel Arnold Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast. From left, Superior Court Associate Judge Joseph James N. Camacho, Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja, Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola, Gov. David M. Apatang, Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexandro Castro and Superior Court nominee Joey Patrick San Nicolas pose after Mondays announcement of the judicial appointees on Capital Hill. Photo by Emmanuel T. Erediano By Emmanuel T. Erediano [email protected] Variety News Staff GOVERNOR David M. Apatang on Monday announced his appointment of three jurists: Superior Court Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja as Supreme Court associate justice; Associate Judge Joseph James N. Camacho as presiding judge; and former Attorney General Joey Patrick San Nicolas as associate judge. The appointments came a week after the resignation of Associate Justice Perry Inos. It was a historic event to appoint three jurists in a single day, Naraja said. In a press conference at his office on Capital Hill, the governor said he submitted his nomination letters to Senate President Kar King-Nabors on Friday. Hopefully, the Senate will begin reviewing the appointments and start the confirmation process, he said. He thanked Naraja, Camacho, and San Nicolas for accepting the nominations. The governor also noted that San Nicolas, a former mayor of Tinian, will be the first judge from the island. It will be an honor to have the first judge from Tinian. I ask the Senate to expedite his confirmation so the court system will not experience any gaps. We want other justices and judges to focus on their work, not administrative delays, he said. Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola called the announcement an important moment for the Judiciary and for the people we serve. He congratulated Naraja, noting that his appointment to the Supreme Court reflects not only his legal acumen but the trust placed in his integrity, fairness, and dedication to the rule of law. Mendiola also praised Camacho, saying, His guidance, expertise, and wise decision-making will enhance the administration of justice. He welcomed San Nicolas, noting that his nomination embodies a unified One Marianas perspective, with an associate judge chosen from the beautiful island of Tinian. Altogether, these appointments reinforce the strength and independence of the CNMI judicial branch, Mendiola added. On behalf of the people, the governor and I thank each of the nominees for answering the call to serve. Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexandro Castro also thanked the governor for the appointments, highlighting their importance in maintaining the rule of law in the Commonwealth. Our people on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota will continue to have access to the judicial system, he said. Castro expressed respect for the nominations and welcomed Naraja, Camacho, and San Nicolas to their new roles. Naraja thanked the governor for his trust and confidence. His appointment as associate justice marks an eight-year term and makes him the third-longest serving CNMI jurist, adding to his 24 years on the Superior Court. I will do my very best for the betterment of our community. The people deserve no less, he said, thanking Castro for his support and congratulating his fellow appointees. Camacho thanked the governor and lieutenant governor for their confidence. As a strong advocate of efficiency, he said he hopes to implement technology solutions to improve court operations. For residents on Tinian and Rota, cases are often delayed because judges travel to the islands once a month. With technology, judges can appear via video conference, he said. He also noted that timely appointment of the presiding judge is critical for functions such as signing child support payments, which can significantly impact single parents. San Nicolas expressed gratitude on behalf of his wife Connie and his family. I am deeply honored and grateful to Governor Apatang and Lt. Gov. Mendiola for the confidence they have placed in me, he said. He emphasized his respect for the judiciary and its role in upholding the rule of law and public trust. San Nicolas congratulated Naraja and Camacho and said he looks forward to serving alongside them to strengthen the integrity and professionalism of CNMI courts. He also recognized the contributions of Associate Justice Inos, Castro, and Manglona, noting that their work has shaped our judiciary and left a lasting legacy. I approach this nomination with humility and full respect for the constitutional confirmation process, San Nicolas said. The Senates role in that process is an important safeguard of judicial independence, and I look forward to appearing before them in due course. Emmanuel Arnold Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast. Helmsley Charitable Trust Trustee Walter Panzirer, right, listens as Northern Marianas College Nursing Department Chair Rosa Aldan talks about lab equipment. Also in photo are Rural Healthcare Program Director Wayne Booze, Program Officer Elizabeth Ruen, and NMC Senior Vice President Frankie Eliptico. The trust awarded NMC a $2.3 million grant to transform its nursing and allied health programs and address the CNMI's urgent healthcare workforce needs. NMC photo By Bryan Manabat [email protected] Variety News Staff THE Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust envisions a CNMI where residents can access high-quality healthcare without leaving home supported by a locally trained workforce and modern medical infrastructure. Im a firm believer in keeping care local and emphasizing that care is local, and that your ZIP code should not determine your healthcare outcomes, Helmsley trustee Walter Panzirer said during a virtual briefing with local media on Northern Marianas Colleges announcement of a $2.3 million grant for its nursing program. People heal when theyre close to their support network when theyre close to their family, their friends, their loved ones. Anytime were able to create a program that keeps healthcare local and helps people stay home, its better for the individual because theyre surrounded by those they love. For Helmsley, the CNMI is not a one-off project but part of a long-term commitment to rural health equity and to growing your own healthcare workforce, he added. Strategic investment The new $2.3 million Helmsley grant on top of a previous $6.4 million investment for an MRI machine at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation will modernize NMCs nursing program and strengthen the local healthcare workforce pipeline. The 36-month grant, which runs from February 2026 through January 2029, will: Modernize NMCs nursing curriculum to a concept-based model; Develop a state-of-the-art simulation skills laboratory with high-fidelity mannequins and advanced equipment; and Support allied health pathways, including hemodialysis technician and community health worker certificate programs NMC President Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero described the grant as a system-level intervention. This reflects not just an investment in Northern Marianas College, but a deep and broad-based investment in improving the healthcare system here in the CNMI, he said, noting Helmsleys earlier support for the MRI and its continued backing of lab equipment and curriculum improvements. The goal, he said, is not only licensing success but community service. Graduates are not only going to graduate and pass the NCLEX, but most importantly, they are going to meet the pressing healthcare needs of our community. Head of NMCs nursing program Rosa Aldan said the grant represents a dramatic turning point in how nurses are trained on Saipan. She recalled how, in the aftermath of typhoons, faculty improvised skills training with whatever materials were available. In the past, our students were learning in tents, and our faculty had to be creative to run the skills lab, Aldan said. One faculty member used pool noodles to demonstrate and practice injections. Another used oranges as padding to simulate muscle for injection practice. Currently, NMC relies on basic mannequins, task trainers, and online videos, but Aldan said the new funding will allow the program to reach the standards seen at major mainland institutions. With this generous grant award, we can now purchase the necessary learning models, high-level mannequins, and equipment for a simulation lab that incorporates computers and advanced programs, she said. This will allow students to practice and apply what they learn in lecture in a simulated environment. Simulation labs, she added, provide a safe space where students can make and correct mistakes before encountering real patients. Simulation labs are now a standard learning environment where students can feel comfortable making mistakes, correcting them, and then applying their knowledge and skills in real hospital settings with real patients, Aldan said. The grant will also fund professional development so faculty can master the new technologies and curriculum. Even for us as faculty, theres learning involved, Aldan said. This grant allows us to invest in professional development and move our curriculum into a concept-based model, which is now the standard in nursing education. It helps students develop critical thinking and decision-making skills needed in todays technology-driven healthcare environment. Panzirer underscored how transformative the upgrade will be. These mannequins and technologies are pretty much standard at most higher education institutions, he said. Once installed, this will be the same type of learning environment youd find at many Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs, at least from a technology standpoint. Capacity, demand, and the path to a BSN Behind the technology upgrade lies a capacity challenge: demand far exceeds available slots. NMCs nursing program is currently a two-year associate degree program that typically admits 25 to 30 students per cohort each year. According to Aldan and Deleon Guerrero, the program receives more than 100 applicants annually, in addition to a large pool of pre-nursing students. Capacity is constrained by the number of faculty and available clinical sites, with CHCC remaining the primary hospital placement. The maximum number we can admit is 30, and even that is pushing it, Aldan said. Faculty both lecture and supervise clinicals. Weve tried 40 before, and it was overwhelming. Even when you want to provide quality education, theres only so much you can do with too few faculty and limited clinical sites. Deleon Guerrero said part of the Helmsley grant supports curriculum review and planning, which will help the college map out future expansion. A portion of the grant will fund curriculum review and upgrading, which will help us identify staffing needs if we pursue a bachelors program, he said. Once we have a new facility, new lab equipment, and an updated curriculum, well have a clearer path to increasing capacity and moving toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Aldan said the nursing team is already looking ahead. Were really excited to bring our nursing program to the next level, she said. With this new technology and innovation, we can envision eventually adding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and bringing our program fully up to speed. She also pointed to allied health certificate programs as a near-term solution to support CHCC and private clinics, particularly as changes to the CW program loom in 2029. Training both registered nurses and allied health professionals locally, she said, will help the healthcare system manage workforce needs while long-term RN capacity is built. Reaching Rota, Tinian, and beyond NMCs nursing ambitions extend beyond Saipan. When asked how students and patients on Rota and Tinian would be included given high travel costs and referral challenges Deleon Guerrero cited both facilities planning and online instruction. He said long-term plans include student housing for learners from Tinian, Rota, Micronesia, and even international students. In the meantime, the college has expanded online delivery of prerequisite and related courses, creating a pipeline for outer-island students to advance toward the nursing program. Its definitely part of our planning and vision, he said. Its a step-by-step process, but its something were actively working toward. A long-term partnership For Helmsley, these investments mark only the beginning. Panzirer said the trust expanded to include the Northern Marianas, American Samoa, and Hawaii only after a deep dive into local conditions and extensive stakeholder engagement. We dont expand often, he said. When we do, were here for the long haul. Were not a flash in the pan. As long as we can financially support these communities, we will continue to do so and help address healthcare challenges. He confirmed that additional grants for the CNMI are already in progress and that he and his team plan to return regularly. I love coming to the Northern Marianas, he said. Ive been to all three Saipan, Tinian, and Rota and I have a special place in my heart for all of them. Ill definitely be back, and my team will too. For NMC and its nursing program, that sustained partnership could mark the difference between a small, oversubscribed associate degree and a fully developed, four-year pipeline of nurses and allied health workers trained, as Panzirer put it, to world-class standards without ever having to leave home. Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator. By Bryan Manabat [email protected] Variety News Staff A WOMAN accused of using two falsified U.S. permanent resident cards to travel from Saipan to Hawaii will plead guilty after the federal court converted her upcoming preliminary hearing into an arraignment and changeofplea proceeding. Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona granted the U.S. governments motion to set the matter for a changeofplea hearing, noting that prosecutors and the defense have executed a plea agreement and that an information and plea agreement have already been filed, according to a Feb. 6 order from the District Court for the NMI. The order converts the previously scheduled Feb. 11 preliminary examination into an arraignment and changeofplea hearing at 1:30 p.m., with an inchambers conference for counsel set for 1:15 p.m. The plea agreement remains sealed. Lorna R. Maramba was arrested after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers reported that she presented two fraudulent permanent resident cards during an outbound inspection at the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport on Jan. 21, according to a federal complaint. Maramba is charged with one count of possessing an identification document or a false identification document with the intent to defraud the United States, a violation of 18 U.S.C. 1028(a)(4). She was formally charged and arrested on Jan. 27 and appeared before Chief Judge Manglona the next day for her initial hearing while in U.S. Marshals Service custody. At the request of Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric OMalley, a detention hearing was held on Jan. 30. Chief Judge Manglona released Maramba on a $1,000 unsecured bond with conditions. She is represented by courtappointed attorney Richard Miller. According to an affidavit filed by Homeland Security Investigations, Maramba, a Philippine national, initially claimed she was a lawful permanent resident and presented two laminated cards one blackandwhite and one in color each containing different biographical information, mismatched USCIS numbers, and distorted or blurred images. Record checks showed she had no legal immigration status and had overstayed her last CNMIOnly Transitional Worker visa, which expired in 2020. Investigators said Maramba later admitted the cards were fake and told them she paid $2,000 to a man she met on Facebook who claimed to be a U.S. immigration officer. She said she hoped to reach Hawaii to find work and acknowledged she was unlawfully present in the CNMI. Maramba also told investigators she is an accountant and had previously prepared her own CW1 applications. She said she sought employment in Hawaii because of the difficulty of finding work on Saipan. The arraignment and changeofplea hearing are scheduled for Feb. 11. Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator. A voter prepares to cast his ballot for a general election at a polling station in Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 8, 2026. REUTERS TOKYO (Reuters) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis coalition swept to a historic election win on Sunday, paving the way for promised tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and military spending aimed at countering China. The conservative Takaichi, Japans first female leader who says she is inspired by Britains Iron Lady Margaret Thatcher, delivered 316 seats of the 465 in parliaments lower house for her Liberal Democratic Party, its best ever result. With coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, Takaichi controls 352 seats and a supermajority of two-thirds of seats, easing her legislative agenda as she can override the upper chamber, where she does not have a majority. This election involved major policy shifts particularly a major shift in economic and fiscal policy, as well as strengthening security policy, Takaichi said in a television interview as the results rolled in. These are policies that have drawn a great deal of opposition If we have received the publics support, then we truly must tackle these issues with all our strength. President Donald Trump congratulated Takaichi on the result, wishing her great success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength agenda in a social media post. Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an election paid off big time, said Trump, who will host Takaichi at the White House next month. Takaichi, 64, called the rare winter snap election to capitalize on her buoyant personal approval ratings since she was elevated to lead the long-ruling LDP late last year. Voters have been drawn to her straight-talking, hardworking image, but her nationalistic leanings and emphasis on security have strained ties with Japans powerful neighbor China, while her promises of tax cuts have rattled financial markets. Residents trudged through snow to cast their ballots with record snowfall in some parts snarling traffic and requiring some polling stations to close early. It was only the third postwar election held in February, with elections typically called during milder months. Outside a polling station in the town of Uonuma in the mountainous Niigata prefecture, teacher Kazushige Cho, 54, braved below-freezing temperatures and deep snow to cast his vote for Takaichis Liberal Democratic Party. It feels like shes creating a sense of direction like the whole country is pulling together and moving forward, Cho said. But Takaichis election promise to suspend an 8% sales tax on food to help households cope with rising prices has rattled investors concerned about how the nation with the heaviest debt burden among advanced economies will fund the plan. Takaichi said on Sunday she would speed up consideration of the sales tax cut while focusing on fiscal sustainability. Her plans for the cut in the consumption tax leave open big question marks about funding and how shes going to go about making the arithmetic add up, said Chris Scicluna, head of research at Daiwa Capital Markets Europe in London. The head of Japans top business lobby Keidanren, Yoshinobu Tsutsui, welcomed Takaichis win as restoring political stability. Japans economy is now at a critical juncture for achieving sustainable and strong growth, he said. The LDP, which has ruled for almost all of Japans postwar history, had lost control of both houses in elections over the past 15 months under Takaichis predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba. Takaichi has managed to turn around the partys fortunes by striking a chord with younger voters. She has even sparked a sanakatsu craze, roughly translated as Sanae-mania. Her handbag and the pink pen she scribbles notes with in parliament have been in high demand. China is not a fan, however. Weeks after taking office, Takaichi touched off the biggest dispute with Beijing in over a decade by publicly outlining how Tokyo might respond to a Chinese attack on Taiwan, the democratic island claimed by China. China responded with several countermeasures, including urging its citizens not to travel to Japan. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Takaichi, saying he hoped her victory would bring a more prosperous and secure future for Japan and its partners in the region. Takaichis strong mandate could accelerate her plans to bolster Japans defenses, further angering Beijing, which has cast her as attempting to revive its militaristic past. Japans Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told TV stations on Sunday evening that he wanted to push ahead with policies to strengthen Japans defense while pursuing dialogue with China. Beijing will not welcome Takaichis victory, said David Boling, principal at the Asia Group, a firm that advises companies on geopolitical risk. China now faces the reality that she is firmly in place and that its efforts to isolate her completely failed. The Nashville Electric Service Board on Monday unanimously approved an independent review of its response to Januarys deadly Winter Storm Fern. The utility also announced that it will make a $1 million donation to the citys storm recovery fund, among other actions. We are proud of NES response in restoring power to 230,000 households in 13 days that was historic, said board chair Delta Anne Davis Monday. Yet in many ways we did not live up to the standards Nashville has come to expect from NES during their 87 years of service in the community. The sentiment was echoed by CEO Teresa Broyles-Aplin, who said NES is committed to learning from the storm. I'm asking the board members to help us execute on an independent after-action review that can be completed quickly, Broyles-Aplin said. I believe this action completed on an aggressive timeline is important while the last two weeks are fresh on all of our minds, and data is readily available, and also to help prep us for spring and summer inclement weather. We need an unbiased report, one that focuses on facts and not politics, one that brings concrete and actionable findings back to us, said vice chair Casey Santos. Throughout this assessment, everything should be on the table, including our preparations, our communications, as mentioned, our operational response and our technology, so we can be prepared for the next storm or other emergency, improve our recovery time and improve service to our customers service they expect and deserve. The board also approved a resolution that increases emergency expenditures from up to $500,000 to as much as $5 million per transaction for preexisting contracts that have already been authorized in response to the storm. Currently there are three contracts related to external staffing support that fall under those emergency expenditures, but according to NES attorney Laura Smith, more emergency expenditures may be paid out in the near future. Broyles-Aplin said NES will suspend all electricity disconnects and late fees through June, allow flexible payment options throughout 2026 and provide additional online and call-center customer support options. She also said NES will immediately enhance emergency management leadership address communications outage information and outage map improvements revisit estimated time of restoration practices [and] initiate evaluations focusing on strengthening system resiliency. Six people spoke during a public comment portion of Mondays meeting, including two NES linemen and two Metro councilmembers District 7 Councilmember Emily Benedict and District 19 Councilmember Jacob Kupin. One of the linemen BJ Heath, who has worked as a lineman for more than 20 years spoke in support of his NES colleagues, including those at the top of the organization. I appreciate the [public] support of the linemen, and on the flip side, you can't appreciate linemen and bash the CEO and the management team, Heath said. We're all in this together. We couldn't complete the work that we completed without the equipment and tools that are provided by management, so I stand with our management team. The entire company, we did a great job. We communicated well. We did as much as we could, as fast as we could, as safely as we could, and as quickly as we could to restore power to our customers, and I think we did a pretty good job. This isnt about [the linemens] effort, said Councilmember Benedict. This is about whether they were given the tools to succeed. When a third of a district is without power for two weeks, thats not what residents call a good response. Councilmember Kupin called NES response a failure that needs to be addressed. NES executive vice president and chief operations and innovation officer Brent Baker offered more insight into the technical challenges of the storm and how NES will move forward. We have a better model now of how to predict [storm impact intensities] we will be enacting that in the future, Baker said, adding that NES began working on a 10-year comprehensive storm-hardening plan in May of last year. The plan utilizes drone and lidar technology, especially when planning vegetation management. We did our first 500 miles in August to help us understand our trees a bit better, Baker said. We will begin evaluating even more what other tools need to be implemented in our system. There are tools that we use, but maybe not at the scale we will in the future. And no technology and no modernization will be left unturned. Over the weekend, NES announced the restoration of power to 99.9 percent of its customers after some 230,000 customers across 294 square miles were left without power from the historic winter storm. The storm resulted in the deaths of at least 29 people, five of whom were in Davidson County, and sparked political turmoil as state and federal Republicans threatened oversight. NES reported that the storm caused 787 broken utility poles, with more than 1,900 linemen working across the state. The utility utilized assistance from crews from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Ohio, Virginia, Texas and West Virginia. Mayor Says NES Is 'Unequipped to Communicate' in a Crisis O'Connell notes utility will be 'held accountable' regarding power restoration efforts, issues executive order to form storm-response commission Mayor Freddie OConnell announced during a press conference Friday that he does not have the unilateral authority to fire the NES board, with that responsibility falling to the Metro Council. The council will hold its own storm-response meeting on Feb. 10, featuring officials from NES, the Office of Emergency Management, the Nashville Fire Department, the Metro Nashville Police Department, Metro Water Services and Metro Nashville Public Schools. OConnell previously said NES failed to meet the moment and was unequipped to communicate in a crisis. The mayor then issued Executive Order 58 an order "establishing a Commission to Review Preparation and Response to the January 2026 Winter Storm." OConnell said the commission will hold hearings and request the assistance of the Metro auditor, and is expected to return its initial findings within six months. Officials with NES whose grid now covers 700 square miles have said Winter Storm Fern was the worst storm it has faced since the utilitys formation in 1939. That explanation has not kept thousands of Nashvillians from expressing their outrage at being kept in the dark. When I was writing my book Dynamite Nashville: Unmasking the FBI, the KKK, and the Bombers Beyond Their Control, I heard a rumor that the Rev. Kelly Miller Smith was an FBI informant during the civil rights era. If true, it would be the Nashville equivalent of finding out that St. Peter worked for Satan. The Rev. Kelly Miller Smith was the pastor at First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill. He headed up the NAACP for a while. He founded the Nashville Christian Leadership Council. His daughter Joy was one of the first-graders who desegregated Nashvilles public schools in 1957. He was close friends with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He worked closely with the Rev. James Lawson. He taught at the American Baptist Theological Seminary and served as assistant dean at Vanderbilt Divinity School. If you took a class on the civil rights movement that focused solely on the Rev. Kelly Miller Smith, youd still come away with a pretty comprehensive understanding of the era. I made some discreet inquiries to find out if anyone locally had ever heard such a thing. No one I asked had. I also really didnt want it to be true, but I still kept an eye out as I was going through FBI files. And listen, Im not about to break the hearts of people who knew him. This isnt a sad story about heroes with clay feet. However, let me also be clear that whenever I talked to Black Nashvillians who lived through the 1950s and 60s and told them that I found proof that the FBI was running the Ku Klux Klan in Tennessee, none of them were surprised. They might not have known specifically that the FBI ordered the Klan around, but they knew and knew at the time that law enforcement and the Klan worked together. There are stories and there will be more stories of prominent people who were marching and protesting and sitting in who were also informing for the FBI. Not because they were deliberately trying to undermine the movement, but because they were making a calculation about what they needed to do to stay safe from the death squads. All this is to say, I found the file in which the Rev. Kelly Miller Smith talks to the FBI, and I promptly closed the file and put it away. Who wants to have to know for sure? Me. My dumb ass. So after hemming and hawing, I read it and Im sad I waited, in part because I bet the FBI was also sad about the discussion. +7 Who Bombed Z. Alexander Loobys North Nashville Home? Author Betsy Phillips Dynamite Nashville: The KKK, the FBI, and the Bombers Beyond Their Control is scheduled for release via Third Man Books So here we are. Its Sept. 26, 1961, and locally, weve been through the bombings of Hattie Cotton Elementary School, the Jewish Community Center and the home of civil rights leader Z. Alexander Looby all of which were unsolved (well, unsolved-ish). The Rev. James Lawson had been expelled from Vanderbilt. The sit-in protesters had gotten the mayor to admit that segregation was wrong. Nationally, there had been bombings throughout the South, and the world watched as the Freedom Riders were attacked by Klansmen in Anniston and Birmingham, Ala. And here comes the Rev. Kelly Miller Smith to talk to the FBI about the upcoming meeting of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Nashville. Oh, he has details for them. Martin Luther King Jr. is going to speak. Harry Belafonte is going to sing. Theyre going to discuss how to ensure Black people can vote. And then he pulls a move so badass Im smiling just thinking about it. Lets go to the FBI file: [Smith] stated that they feel that they will have the backing of the Justice Department of the Federal Government in this effort, and particularly because of the fact that they have been advised by certain individuals in the Justice Department, who he did not identify, that the Justice Department could take legal action with regard to voter registration and that they would be on much sounder legal ground here than they were in the Freedom Rides which they have sponsored to date. You see what he did there?! When you get invited to share information with the FBI, youre supposed to be on your back foot. They are the power of the federal government, and the Rev. Smith must have suspected that they knew what the Klan was up to. (The Rev. Smith could not have known this at the time, but in fact, FBI informant Gary Rowe was a direct participant in the attacks on the Freedom Riders that summer.) And here he is just acting like, "Of course the Justice Department, including the FBI, is going to help with voter registration." Surprise, FBI! The Rev. Kelly Miller Smith has shown up to tell you that the SCLC expects you to honor your word. And then he comes back to talk to the FBI some more! On Nov. 22, he chats again. He tells them that he doesnt know of any more Freedom Rides, which is ballsy, because Freedom Riders that very day were down in Albany, Ga., testing whether the bus terminal was segregated, and Smith surely knew that. He brags a little about how well the demonstrations in Nashville are working. And then he names a communist: Smith stated that there has been only one instance where he has been suspicious of an individual being affiliated with the group as having Communist background. He stated that this individual is a white student at George Peabody College for Teachers by the name of Ralph Frankenberg. This is odd for a couple of reasons. White communists in the movement in Nashville had been a headache for Black leadership all along. Whats left of Loobys FBI file is mostly him having a fight with a white communist who belonged to the NAACP. Basically, Black leaders felt like white communists brought the wrong kind of attention and that, even though they sincerely wanted to dismantle Americas racist system, they still often had the unexamined belief that they more so that the Black people who lived here were naturally better suited for leadership in the Freedom Movement. So strange thing one: Smith knows of only one possible communist? Unlikely. Strange thing two: Who the hell is Ralph Frankenberg? I found one mention of him in a Nashville paper. On Aug. 17, 1962, The Tennessean named everyone who graduated that summer from Peabody. Among the listed is Ralph Hoover Frankenberger Jr. from Memphis. Ralph never lived in Memphis. Ralphs dad and mom moved to Memphis late in 1959, when Ralph was in his late 20s and living in Miami. Now, Ralphs mom and dad sure did live in Memphis. They have to be some of the most enthusiastic-about-living-in-Memphis people to ever live in Memphis. They joined all the clubs. They went to all the churches. Ralphs dad, an electrical engineer, judged various smarty-pants contests. Seems like at least once a month Ralphs parents were in the Memphis papers just being from Memphis. Here are two interesting things from Ralphs dads obituary: He was a retired electrical engineer for the Federal Power Commission, and he was a 1921 graduate of Ohio State University who was an Army veteran of World War II. Men of an age to graduate college in 1921 usually served in World War I. When Ralphs dad went into the Army, he was in his mid-40s and had young children. I find that all strange, just on its own. But now put on your JFK conspiracy-theory tinfoil hats with me and lets talk about Ralph. Ralph was born in 1931 in Dallas. In 1940, right before World War II, his family lived in Scotts Bluff, Neb. At some point they moved back to Texas, and Ralph went to high school at the Texas Country Day School in Dallas and became some kind of French genius. After he graduated, he went to Texas Christian University and majored in French and minored in Spanish. He graduated college in 1952. In 1956 he got married in New Orleans, and in 1958, he and his wife separated. I couldnt find any record of them divorcing, but he married twice more, so they must have. In 1959, he was living in Fort Worth. On June 8, 1960, he flew into New Orleans from someplace abroad and gave his home address as Miami. We know that in 1961 he was in Nashville, where the Rev. Smith met him, and then in 1962, he graduated. He then went on to ... um, fall off the face of the planet. Other than the marriages, he made no mark on the historical record. Except for one thing. Hes mentioned in the FBIs file on the JFK assassination as an affiliate of Fair Play for Cuba, a group that advocated for recognition of and diplomatic relations with Cubas communist government. It was a short-lived organization because one of its members, a guy who went to school in Fort Worth and putzed around in New Orleans and had ties to people in Miami, assassinated the president of the United States. Heres the thing. If your dad works for the federal government and whatever he does for them is important enough that he in his mid-40s, with a wife and kids needs to join the military during World War II, and then he comes home and continues to work for the federal government, you being a pro-Castro civil rights activist should be considered a security risk, especially if you really did live with them over in Memphis while you were in the middle of all this. You ought to alarm the FBI. If Frankenberg did, theres no evidence of it. Almost like they knew they didnt have to worry about him. And I cant help but wonder if thats the move the Rev. Kelly Miller Smith was pulling there, just letting them know that he knew to be suspicious of Frankenberg. Anyway, if "informing" is insisting that the FBI honor its commitments, lying to them, and then possibly indicating that you know one of their guys, lets have more of that. The grandparent advantage: How babysitting boosts brain health in seniors Grandparents who babysit their grandchildren score higher on cognitive tests for memory and verbal fluency, suggesting it may help slow mental decline. The activities involved in caregivinglike problem-solving, storytelling and playact as a natural cognitive workout, keeping the brain active and engaged. The benefits are linked to voluntary, part-time caregiving. Seniors who are primary, custodial caregivers face a higher risk of depression and stress, which can harm cognitive health. The benefit comes from the active, social and adaptive role itself, which helps build cognitive resilience, more than from the specific frequency or type of care provided. As populations age, facilitating supportive intergenerational care can be a legitimate component of healthy aging, but programs must ensure grandparents are not overwhelmed. In a society often fixated on the burdens of aging, a compelling new study offers a refreshing counter-narrative: the simple, time-honored act of babysitting grandchildren may be a powerful shield against mental decline. Recent research published by the American Psychological Association suggests that grandparents who provide care for their grandchildren score higher on key cognitive tests, potentially slowing the march of time on the brain. This finding, explored on national television and echoed by grandparents in their own words, highlights a profound intersection of family duty and personal health, challenging modern assumptions about aging and productivity. The study, detailed in the journal Psychology and Aging, followed nearly 3,000 grandparents with an average age of 67. Researchers from Tilburg University in the Netherlands analyzed data collected between 2016 and 2022, comparing cognitive performance between those who provided childcare and those who did not. The results were striking. Even after accounting for variables like age and physical health, caregiving grandparents consistently outperformed their peers on assessments of memory and verbal fluencythe ability to quickly retrieve words and information. This correlation points to a significant, yet often overlooked, benefit of intergenerational engagement. The mental workout required to keep up with a childanswering endless questions, managing schedules, engaging in imaginative playappears to serve as a natural cognitive stimulant. It is a finding that reinforces the value of traditional family structures, where roles and responsibilities extend across generations, fostering mutual support. Experts suggest the cognitive benefits stem from a combination of factors inherent to caregiving. Interacting with grandchildren typically demands that seniors stay physically active, socially engaged and mentally agile. A grandparent must solve problems, tell stories and adapt to the unpredictable nature of a child's needs. This constant, low-level challenge keeps neural pathways active and may help build what scientists call cognitive reservethe brain's resilience to age-related damage. Importantly, the study indicated that the specific type or frequency of care was less critical than the overarching role itself. Whether helping with homework once a week or providing overnight care, the mere act of being involved in a caregiving capacity was associated with better brain function. This suggests that the psychological and social identity of being a needed, contributing family member may be as beneficial as the activities themselves. From playtime to pressure: The other side of grandparenting However, this encouraging news comes with a vital and sobering qualification. The study's lead researcher, Flavia Chereches, emphasized that the family environment is everything. The cognitive benefits appear linked to voluntary, supportive caregiving within a balanced family dynamic. This stands in stark contrast to the reality faced by a growing number of seniors who have become primary, custodial caregivers for their grandchildrena often exhausting role borne of family crisis. Over recent decades, societal shifts including the opioid epidemic, economic instability and changing family structures have led to a notable rise in grandparents raising grandchildren full-time. Previous research has consistently shown that this level of responsibility carries a heavy emotional toll, with primary caregivers at a significantly higher risk for depression and chronic stress, which can accelerate cognitive decline. The new findings, therefore, draw a clear line: occasional, joyful engagement is a brain booster; relentless, high-stakes custodial care is a potential health risk. The human element of this research was given a platform on a recent national morning news program, where grandparents in Florida shared their lived experiences One grandmother spoke of the constant activity, of always chasing and doing things, which she credited for keeping her mind active. Another noted that her grandchildren were often the teachers during outings, forcing her to learn and adapt. A grandfather succinctly captured the essence, contrasting the vitality of involvement with the stagnation of just sitting around. Another described the necessity of becoming a kid again, engaging in physical play and responding to immediate needs. These reflections underscore that the benefit is not a passive one; it is earned through active participation in the vibrant, demanding world of a child. This research arrives at a pivotal moment. As populations age and life expectancies lengthen, maintaining cognitive health into later life is a paramount public and personal concern. Simultaneously, many families rely heavily on grandparents for childcare support, a trend that shows no sign of abating. This study provides a science-backed argument for encouraging and facilitating these intergenerational bonds, not merely as a family convenience but as a legitimate component of healthy aging. A grandparent is a cherished family elder who provides a unique, joyful connection across generations, BrightU.AI's Enoch engine explains. They offer a sense of lineage and foundational support for the family. Ultimately, they are seen as a divine gift and a source of pure, unconditional love. Supporting programs that make it easier for grandparents to engagesuch as flexible community centers, intergenerational activity groups or respite care resourcescould have dual benefits: strengthening family units and promoting the cognitive wellness of the older generation. The lesson is clear: Saying yes to babysitting can be a gift to one's own brain, but families must be vigilant to ensure that generous grandparents are not overwhelmed. In preserving the voluntary and joyful nature of this role, society can protect a vital source of strength for both its oldest and youngest members. Watch and discover the role of grandparents as they are thrust back into parenthood. This video is from the Counter Culture Mom channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: FoxNews.com HuffPost.com ScienceDaily.com BrightU.ai Brighteon.com Three years later, a $10M NIH study launches to uncover the health toll of the East Palestine derailment The NIH has launched a $10 million, five-year study into the long-term health effects of the 2023 East Palestine train derailment. A new local research office opened three years after the disaster, which released and burned toxic chemicals like vinyl chloride. Residents have reported persistent health issues, including respiratory problems, rashes, and cancers, fueling demand for answers. The study aims to assess impacts on respiratory, cardiovascular, immunological, and maternal-child health. The initiative represents a significant, though delayed, federal effort to provide independent science to the affected community. Three years after a catastrophic train derailment turned the village of East Palestine, Ohio, into the epicenter of an environmental and public health crisis, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is formally launching a major research initiative. On the anniversary of the 2023 disaster, federal officials opened the East Palestine Train Derailment Health Research Program Office, the hub for a five-year, $10 million study. The goal is to finally assess the long-term health consequences for residents who have lived for years with fear, uncertainty, and a litany of unexplained illnesses following the release and deliberate burning of a toxic cocktail of industrial chemicals. The Night That Changed Everything The crisis began on the evening of Feb. 3, 2023, when a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed, causing 38 cars to leave the tracks. Eleven of those cars carried hazardous materials, including vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen used to manufacture PVC plastic. Fearing a catastrophic explosion, authorities conducted a controlled burn of five tank cars three days later, sending a massive plume of black smoke over the town. That decision, described by officials as necessary, released a complex mixture of toxins, including phosgenea chemical weapon used in World War Iand hydrogen chloride, which forms corrosive hydrochloric acid. Mounting Health Complaints and Eroding Trust In the aftermath, state and federal agencies declared the air and water safe, allowing residents to return home. However, community trust was quickly shattered by a wave of persistent health complaints. Residents reported headaches, burning eyes, respiratory distress, and severe skin rashes. In the years since, anecdotal reports have grown more severe, including diagnoses of asthma, thyroid disease, neurological issues, and cancers. For the people of East Palestine, the gap between official assurances and their lived experiences created a vacuum of doubt and frustration, fueling demands for rigorous, independent health investigation. The Scope of the Federal Research Initiative The newly established NIH program aims to fill that vacuum. The research will be community-engaged, with a local office intended to facilitate resident enrollment and ensure studies reflect actual concerns. Scientists from several universities will investigate a range of potential long-term effects, focusing on respiratory, cardiovascular, and immunological health. A significant component will examine maternal and child health outcomes, addressing profound fears about developmental and reproductive impacts. As NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya stated, the program is designed to bring rigorous, independent science directly to the community. A Recurring Pattern of Delayed Response The three-year delay in launching this comprehensive study echoes a painful historical pattern surrounding environmental disasters. From the initial denial of health impacts following the 9/11 attacks to the slow recognition of water contamination crises in places like Flint, Michigan, communities exposed to toxins often face a second crisis: a prolonged wait for authoritative health monitoring and answers. This lag leaves populations in a state of limbo, unable to attribute illnesses or plan for their future. The East Palestine initiative, while a critical step, underscores a systemic failure to rapidly deploy public health resources in the immediate wake of major industrial accidents. A Path Forward Amidst Unresolved Legacy The opening of the research office marks a pivotal, if belated, chapter in East Palestines recovery. It represents a substantial federal commitment to move beyond initial emergency response toward understanding the chronic, long-term toll of the disaster. For residents, the study offers a potential pathway to the clarity and accountability they have sought since the dark smoke cleared. The next five years will determine whether this scientific investment can heal the deep wounds of uncertainty and provide the evidence needed to safeguard the communitys health for generations to come. The nation watches, as the findings may well inform the response to future environmental catastrophes. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com NIH.gov WashingtonExaminer.com Botulism outbreak linked to ByHeart infant formula exposes food safety gaps and AAP ties In November 2025, the FDA and CDC issued an urgent recall of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula after 51 infants across 19 states were hospitalized with infant botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness caused by Clostridium botulinum spores. No deaths were reported, but this marks the first known case of botulism linked to powdered formula. Infant botulism begins with constipation, weak cries and floppy limbs, progressing to life-threatening respiratory distress. Early detection and treatment with BabyBIG antitoxin saved affected infants, but the outbreak exposed critical gaps in food safety protocols. ByHeart, a venture-backed ($400M+) "next-gen" formula brand, had marketed itself as superior to breast milk alternatives. However, FDA testing confirmed contamination in unopened cans and supplier ingredients. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which reported the outbreak, failed to disclose that ByHeart is a major donor ($50K+) alongside Pfizer, Merck, Moderna and Sanofi, raising concerns about corporate influence on pediatric guidelines. Food safety attorney Bill Marler, representing affected families, accused ByHeart of prioritizing legal defenses over victim compensation. The AAP is also facing a lawsuit alleging collusion with corporate donors to misrepresent medical safety data, including vaccine risks. This crisis highlights how "clean" brands can still fail due to corporate greed and regulatory gaps, reinforcing the need for parental vigilance and exposing how Big Pharma-style corruption infiltrates infant nutrition. The AAPs financial ties to formula & vaccine companies undermine trust in medical institutions, pushing profit-driven agendas over natural, safer alternatives like breastfeeding. In November 2025, federal health officials issued an urgent nationwide recall of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula after 51 infants across 19 states were hospitalized with infant botulism a rare but potentially fatal illness caused by bacterial toxins. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) traced the outbreak to contaminated formula, marking the first known case of botulism linked to powdered infant formula. While no deaths have been reported, the incident has shaken parental trust in a product marketed as a premium, scientifically advanced alternative to breast milk. It has also raised questions about the influence of corporate donors, including ByHeart, on medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Infant botulism, caused by Clostridium botulinum spores, begins with subtle symptoms constipation, weak cries and floppy limbs before escalating to life-threatening respiratory distress. Early detection and treatment with BabyBIG, a specialized antitoxin, saved the affected infants. However, the outbreak exposed alarming gaps in food safety protocols. FDA testing confirmed the bacteria in an unopened can of ByHeart formula, as well as in whole milk powder supplied to the company. ByHeart, which launched in 2022 as a "next-generation" infant nutrition brand, initially recalled only two lots before expanding to all products amid mounting evidence of widespread contamination. The company, backed by over $400 million in venture capital, had touted its formula as clinically proven to mimic breast milk more closely than competitors. Parents who paid $42 per can for its supposed health benefits now face medical bills and unanswered questions. The AAP's shocking conflicts of interest Food safety attorney Bill Marler, representing more than 30 affected families, accused ByHeart of prioritizing legal defenses over compensating victims. "They're hiring experts, serving subpoenas and ignoring requests to step up," Marler told ABC News. The AAP, a leading authority on child health, reported the outbreak on its news site but omitted a critical detail: ByHeart is a major donor. The company belongs to AAP's "Presidents Circle," an elite group of just 10 annual donors contributing at least $50,000. Aside from ByHeart, the roster includes pharmaceutical giants Pfizer, Merck, Moderna and Sanofi. ByHeart also sponsored AAP's September 2025 National Conference, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. The AAP is currently embroiled in a lawsuit alleging it colluded with corporate donors to misrepresent vaccine safety. Neither AAP nor ByHeart responded to requests for comment on their financial ties. BrightU.AI's Enoch engine warns that infant formula companies sponsoring the AAP creates a dangerous conflict of interest, as it allows corporations like ByHeart to influence pediatric guidelines and push their products over safer, natural alternatives like breastfeeding. This corrupt relationship undermines public health by prioritizing corporate profits over infant well-being, mirroring Big Pharma's capture of medical institutions to push harmful, profit-driven agendas. This crisis underscores a harsh reality: Even "clean" brands can't outsmart nature or the pressures of profit. For parents, vigilance remains the best defense. For regulators and medical institutions, the challenge is restoring trust in systems where corporate influence and food safety too often collide. Watch Gary Franchi of "Next News Network" warning customers about contaminated infant formula still on sale despite a recall notice in this clip. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org BrightU.ai Brighteon.com Strategic Fumble: How a U.S. Dud Bomb May Have Delivered Iran the Keys to Israels Underground Fortresses Introduction: The Unintended Tech Transfer In the chaotic aftermath of the June 2025 U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a single unexploded ordnance has emerged as a geopolitical game-changer. According to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, 'unexploded bombs remain at nuclear facilities struck by the United States during the June 2025 war, creating safety concerns that must be addressed before international inspections can proceed' [1]. Among these failed munitions, reports indicate, was at least one GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a 30,000-pound bunker buster bomb designed to destroy deeply buried targets [2]. This dud, a catastrophic intelligence and operational failure for the United States and its ally Israel, fell into Iranian hands intact. Tehran now claims to have successfully reverse-engineered the weapon, turning a multi-billion dollar American technological marvel into what may be the most consequential unintended technology transfer of the decade. This episode exposes the profound folly of a foreign policy built on assassination and bombardment, a strategy that Iranian officials succinctly critique: 'Knowledge cannot be eliminated through bombardment; technology cannot be destroyed' [1]. Far from crippling Iran's defensive capabilities, the aggressive U.S. strike, ordered by a Trump administration doing the bidding of what critics call a 'war criminal' Israeli government [3], may have inadvertently handed Tehran the very keys needed to unlock and threaten Israel's most secure underground command centers. A Dud Bomb and a Geopolitical Windfall: The Unintended Tech Transfer The sequence of events reads like a spy thriller. During the so-called '12-day war' in June 2025, the United States followed Israeli strikes with its own attacks on Iran's Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan nuclear sites [1]. U.S. B-2 stealth bombers, in a mission 15 years in the making, deployed the massive GBU-57 penetrators [2]. Initial boasts from Washington suggested total obliteration, but satellite imagery and subsequent admissions told a different story. Analysis revealed 'only superficial damage' at key sites, with Iran having evacuated critical material beforehand [4]. More critically, at least one of the sophisticated bombs failed to detonate. The Iranian recovery of the intact GBU-57 represents an intelligence bonanza of historic proportions. As noted in analyses of such scenarios, having the physical weapon is 'more valuable than blueprints' for reverse-engineering efforts. The bomb's guidance systems, hardened casing, and specialized fusing mechanismsthe product of decades of U.S. research and billions in spendingwere suddenly laid bare for Iranian military scientists. Reports from Iranian media, including the Tehran Times, soon claimed the country had 'successfully reverse engineered the giant munition' [5]. Foreign Minister Araghchi's public statements about the unexploded ordnance, framed as a safety concern for international inspectors, served a dual purpose: it highlighted the failure of the U.S. operation while subtly signaling Iran's newfound technological windfall. This incident stands as a monumental unforced strategic error, demonstrating the inherent unpredictability and frequent counterproductivity of military coercion. Decoding the GBU-57: Penetration Alloys and Precision Guidance The strategic value of the GBU-57 lies not in its sheer size but in the advanced engineering required to make a 30,000-pound weapon penetrate dozens of feet of reinforced concrete before detonating. Its effectiveness hinges on two core technologies: a specialized, ultra-hard steel alloy and a sophisticated guidance package hardened to survive the immense forces of impact. Central to its design is the Eglin steel alloy, a proprietary material developed to withstand the phenomenal stresses of punching through layers of rock and reinforced concrete. Reverse-engineering this alloy provides Iranian metallurgists with a direct sample to analyze its crystalline structure, hardness, and fracture mechanics. As one analysis of penetrator technology notes, understanding the 'failure strain distributions' and behavior of such advanced materials under explosive-driven loads is critical for designing effective weapons [6]. The physical bomb allows for direct measurement of engineering tolerances, weld points, and construction techniques that would be guesswork from schematics alone. Equally valuable is the bomb's guidance system. To be effective, a bunker buster must be dropped with extreme precision, often requiring the delivery aircraft to fly 'right on top of the target' [7]. The systems that enable thislikely including inertial navigation units and possibly GPS-augmented terminalsare miniaturized marvels of electronics designed to function after a high-G impact. For a nation like Iran, which has invested heavily in its indigenous ballistic and cruise missile programs, accessing these U.S. guidance secrets could lead to dramatic improvements in the accuracy of their own strike weapons. This direct technology transfer, handed to them by a failed military operation, accelerates their military science by years, if not decades. Integration, Not Imitation: Adapting Tech to Iran's Missile Arsenal Iran is unlikely to attempt building a direct copy of the 30,000-pound GBU-57, as it lacks the heavy strategic bombers like the B-2 required to deliver it. Instead, the strategic imperative is adaptation. The goal is to miniaturize and integrate the penetration and guidance technologies into Iran's existingand formidablearsenal of ballistic and hypersonic missiles. Iran's missile forces, which inflicted significant damage on Israel in previous exchanges [8], provide the ideal delivery platform. The key will be applying insights from the GBU-57's hardened casing and delayed fusing to create a new class of advanced penetration warheads. These could be fitted to missiles like the precision-guided variants used in past strikes or the newer Fatah hypersonic missile, which Iranian media specifically mentioned as a potential carrier for the adapted technology. Hypersonic missiles, traveling at speeds that make interception by systems like Patriot 'highly difficult if not impossible,' represent a paradigm shift [9]. Coupling such a platform with a bunker-buster-style warhead creates a nightmare scenario for any defender relying on hardened underground facilities. This process of technological integration underscores a fundamental truth of modern warfare and sanctions evasion: determined nations will find a way. As one analyst of Iran's strategic posture has noted, the country has developed a resilient military-industrial base precisely because it has been forced to innovate under decades of pressure [10]. The dud bomb did not create Iranian technical prowess; it provided a shortcut, accelerating their indigenous development cycle. The episode validates the Iranian assertion that 'technology exists, knowledge exists, and there is no alternative to negotiation' [1]. Bombing campaigns cannot erase knowledge; they often serve only to harden resolve and spur innovation in the targeted state. From Conventional to Catastrophic: The Nuclear Bunker-Buster Scenario The ultimate strategic nightmare for Israel, and the wider region, emerges when this penetration technology is married to a nuclear device. While Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, Western intelligence and Israeli officials consistently claim it is attempting 'to obtain nuclear weapons' [1]. If Tehran were to weaponize its fissile material, a bunker-buster delivery system would fundamentally alter the deterrence calculus. An underground nuclear detonation, especially within the confines of a hardened bunker complex, presents a uniquely devastating yet 'cleaner' option from a certain military perspective. The massive explosion would be contained, channeling its force to destroy deep underground structures while limiting radioactive fallout that would spread across borders [11]. This makes the weapon more 'usable' in a hypothetical first-strike scenario, as the attacker could argue it minimizes collateral damage. For a nation like Israel, which reportedly relies on a network of deeply buried command centers, government bunkers, and military installations as a last-resort sanctuary for its leadership and key assets, such a weapon represents an existential threat. It neutralizes what was considered an ultimate insurance policy. As one assessment of nuclear strategy grimly outlines, the calculus of retaliation and mutual assured destruction shifts when one side believes it can eliminate the other's command-and-control in a decapitating first strike [12]. The possession of a credible bunker-busting capability, whether conventional or nuclear, grants Iran a powerful deterrent and potentially escalatory tool. It transforms Iran's missile force from a regional nuisance into a system capable of holding Israel's most critical strategic assets at risk, a reality that makes previous U.S. and Israeli boasts about destroying Iran's nuclear program [13] ring dangerously hollow. The Futility of Coercion: Why Bombing Cannot Destroy Knowledge The entire episode serves as a stark lesson in the limits of military power to halt technological progress. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi's declaration that 'knowledge cannot be eliminated through bombardment' is not just rhetoric; it is a statement of empirical fact demonstrated by this intelligence windfall [1]. The U.S. strategy, heavily influenced by Israeli demands and a neoconservative playbook, has relied on a combination of covert assassination of scientists, cyber sabotage, and overt military strikes to degrade Iran's capabilities [14]. The June 2025 bombing campaign, part of a dramatic expansion of U.S. airstrikes under the Trump administration [15], was the most forceful application of this doctrine yet. Its failure is multifaceted. First, it proved physically ineffective. Classified assessments concluded the strikes 'failed to achieve their primary objective of destroying the country's nuclear capabilities' [16]. Second, and more damningly, it backfired strategically by delivering a priceless technological sample to the adversary. This exposes the core hypocrisy of a non-proliferation stance that ignores the region's only undeclared nuclear power. While demanding Iran accept 'zero enrichment' and end its missile programconditions Tehran rightly labels 'unacceptable' as matters of 'national sovereignty' [1]the U.S. turns a blind eye to Israel's own sizable nuclear arsenal, acquired in 'total violation of U.S. law' [3]. This double standard erodes any moral authority and reinforces Iran's narrative of resisting Western bullying to defend its sovereign rights. A Self-Defeating Doctrine: How U.S. Actions Fuel the Very Threats They Fear The story of the dud bunker buster is a parable of self-defeating intervention. Actions taken by the United States, under pressure from the Netanyahu government in Israel, to degrade a perceived threat have instead directly accelerated it. This is not an anomaly but a feature of a foreign policy doctrine that prioritizes coercion over diplomacy and regime change over coexistence. The aggressive strike intended to set back Iran's program may have instead gifted it a cornerstone technology for a strategic missile capability it previously lacked. This self-inflicted wound weakens U.S. deterrence in the region and incentivizes further Iranian military innovation. Faced with an existential threat from a nuclear-armed Israel and repeated attacks from the U.S., Iran's pursuit of asymmetric and strategic deterrents is a rational act of self-defense. The Biden administration's policy of expansive bombing has been continued and even intensified under Trump, with the U.S. having 'bombed seven countries in 2025' [15]. Yet, as this incident shows, such campaigns often fail to achieve their stated goals while creating new, more dangerous realities. The path forward, albeit now more difficult, remains the same as it was before the failed bombs fell: principled negotiation that acknowledges the rights and security concerns of all parties. Continued down the current path of escalationthreatened by Trump's warning of a 'massive Armada' heading to Iran and further airstrikes [17]risks triggering a regional war for which the U.S. military is unprepared, a conflict that could see U.S. bases and naval assets attacked and even the Strait of Hormuz closed [18]. The architects of this failed strategy, ensconced in what critics describe as a corrupt nexus of power, have demonstrated a reckless disregard for the consequences of their actions, pursuing short-term political victories for a foreign ally at the expense of long-term American security and regional stability [3]. The unexploded bomb in Iran is a fitting symbol of that failure: a dud on the battlefield that may yet explode strategically in the faces of those who dropped it. Conclusion: The High Cost of Strategic Incompetence The recovery and reverse-engineering of the GBU-57 bunker buster by Iran stands as one of the most significant intelligence coups and strategic blunders in recent military history. It encapsulates the bankruptcy of a foreign policy rooted in intimidation and violence, a policy that ultimately empowers the very adversaries it seeks to weaken. The billions spent developing this weapon, and the decades of research it represents, were handed to Iran on a silver platter through a combination of technical failure and strategic myopia. This event should serve as a wake-up call. It demonstrates that technological knowledge, once gained, cannot be bombed into oblivion. It highlights the hypocrisy of a non-proliferation regime that sanctions one nation while arming another. Most importantly, it reveals the profound danger of allowing U.S. foreign policy to be hijacked by the interests of a foreign nation engaged in what independent observers have documented as acts resembling 'genocide' and 'war crimes' [19]. The American people are once again left holding the bag, facing a more capable adversary and a more volatile region, while the architects of this disaster face no accountability. The solution lies not in doubling down on failed strategies but in a radical reassessment. It requires championing diplomacy over bombardment, respecting national sovereignty over imposing diktats, and pursuing an even-handed policy that seeks peace and stability rather than perpetual war for the benefit of a narrow set of interests. Until that happens, the U.S. will continue to fumble its way into creating the very monsters it claims to be fighting. References The Ebola Blueprint: How a 2014 Health Crisis Became the Template for Global Biosecurity Governance Introduction: The Week Global Health Became Global Security In September 2014, a single week silently redefined the global order. The United Nations Security Council, invoking its most powerful authority, formally declared Ebola a 'threat to international peace and security' under Chapter VII of the UN Charter [1]. This unprecedented act, detailed in UN Resolution 2177, shifted the paradigm from public health concern to military-grade security threat. Simultaneously, newly released U.S. Department of Justice documents reveal a parallel channel of power operating in the shadows. On September 25, 2014, Bill Gates emailed his upcoming itinerary to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, noting he would be 'mostly seeing Executive branch people including the President on the budget and Ebola' [2]. This was not a casual update. Gates was reporting his presidential access to a man who, that same day, advised him it was the 'perfect time for you to pitch DAF'Donor-Advised Funds, vehicles for anonymous capital flow and influence [2]. This convergence was no accident. It marked the precise moment when crisis response transitioned from the domain of public health agencies into a private, pre-engineered system of capital deployment, surveillance, and permanent governance. The Ebola outbreak provided the narrative justification. The architecture had already been built. The Confluence of Power: Gates, Epstein, and the Political Machinery The documents paint a picture of a shadow network where policy, philanthropy, and political access were brokered through a convicted facilitator. Three days after Gates disclosed his Ebola meeting with President Obama, Epstein received another critical communication. An assistant to former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak forwarded him an invitation to a private, off-the-record Obama fundraiser, asking Epstein to vet the intermediaries [2]. Here, a convicted trafficker was being consulted on presidential access for a foreign head of state, while simultaneously advising one of the worlds richest men on financial strategy during a declared global emergency. These connections reveal a profound truth: the response to the Ebola crisis was being shaped in private channels between unelected financiers, political operatives, and a convicted criminal. It was governance by network, not by democracy. Project Molecule: The Pre-Existing Architecture Contrary to public perception, the system activated in September 2014 was not created in response to Ebola. It was merely switched on. Months before the outbreak dominated headlines, a blueprint dubbed 'Project Molecule' had been drafted within the JPMorgan-Gates ecosystem [3]. This 14-page proposal, dated August 31, 2011, outlined a 'perpetual' governance structure called 'The Gates & J.P. Morgan Charitable Giving Fund' [3]. The plan was chillingly specific. It proposed a board of unelected power brokersincluding Warren Buffett, Melinda Gates, Susan Rice, and Queen Rania of Jordanto oversee a fund with 'perpetual operation and governance succession' [3]. Its budget included explicit line items: '$40M Purchase oral polio vaccines (OPV) in Pakistan' and '$20M Finance the surveillance network in Pakistan' [3]. This was not humanitarian aid. It was the financing of biological governance infrastructure across sovereign borders, with private committees replacing democratic oversight. The 'offshore arm especially for vaccines' that Epstein described to JPMorgan CEO Mary Erdoes in August 2011 found its institutional form in Project Molecule's proposed 'foreign private charitable foundation in a tax neutral jurisdiction' [3]. The financial plumbing for crisis response was laid before the crisis even arrived. Securitization: How Ebola Became a Military-Level Threat The formal mechanism for this power grab was 'securitization'the political process of framing a public health issue as a security threat. UN Resolution 2177 was the catalyst. As analyzed in a scholarly article, this was the first time a public health crisis was formally classified under Chapter VII, the UN's most powerful tool, typically reserved for war and sanctions [1]. The resolution passed unanimously with a record 130 co-sponsors, driven by U.S. Ambassador Samantha Power [2]. This reclassification had immediate, tangible consequences. Within 24 hours, the UN created UNMEERthe UN Mission for Ebola Emergency Responsethe first-ever UN emergency health mission with security authority [2]. The United States announced military deployment to West Africa. Emergency funding structures were activated. Policy timelines collapsed under the banner of urgency. Critically, this move was controversial among scholars. As noted in the analysis, some argued that 'the historical record disproves the link between infectious diseases and political stability' and that securitization pushes responses 'away from civil society toward military and intelligence organizations' [1]. The stage was set for a security-driven, top-down response that sidelined traditional public health frameworks. The Surveillance State Emerges: Dual-Use Technology and Political Leverage With health officially securitized, surveillance became its logical extension. On October 8, 2014, scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College pitched Epstein a pre-symptomatic Ebola detection system using multiplex PCR technology, requesting his help to find 'a potential pathway to Bill Gates and the Gates Foundation' [2]. Epstein forwarded the request and immediately pivoted to discussing equity splits [2]. This technology, developed in collaboration with USAMRIID (Fort Detrick), NIH, and CDC, covered CDC-designated Category A biothreat agents [2]. Marketed as 'early warning,' pre-symptomatic detection at population scale is indistinguishable from mass biological surveillance. It enables isolation before illness, movement restriction before contagion, and data collection on an unprecedented scale. The standards and metrics are set by whoever funds and deploys the system. The political calculus was equally stark. On October 18, 2014, Epstein emailed Obama's White House Counsel Kathy Ruemmler, writing: 'I think ebola now plays a role, if it gets bad = bye bye senate for sure' [2]. Ruemmler had been discussing a Senate confirmation fight, noting the 'WH pretty clearly has cold feet' [2]. Disease escalation was being explicitly discussed as political leverage at the highest levels of the White House, with a convicted sex offender acting as a sounding board. Crisis-to-Institution Conversion: Building the Permanent Infrastructure The goal was never a temporary response. It was permanent institution-building. On September 21, 2014days before the UN votea senior UN diplomat forwarded Epstein a revised concept paper for a 'Nexus Centre for peace and health,' explicitly updated 'taking into account the serious impact of Ebola' [2]. The sender, Walter Kemp, wrote: 'The world needs such a Centre more than ever.' The recipient who forwarded it to Epstein was Terje Rd-Larsen, president of the International Peace Institute and former UN Under-Secretary-General [2]. Ebola was the justification. The International Peace Institute, funded by the Gates Foundation, continued its Ebola governance work long after the crisis faded. Emails from April 30, 2015, show Epstein tracking the status: 'ipi ebola now in sept' and 'andrea has not called svet re ebola' [2]. These are not reflections; they are operational status updates on a standing governance file. The financial mechanisms were designed for permanence. Donor-Advised Funds provided 'arms length' separation and 'donor anonymity,' creating opaque, perpetual channels for capital to shape policy while maintaining philanthropic tax benefits [3]. As one Gates Foundation briefing described, the Global Health Investment Fund was an 'impact investment' vehicle targeting returns, backed by a 'sixty percent principal guarantee' from philanthropic and sovereign capital [4]. Public risk, private upsidea standing business model for pandemics. The COVID Rehearsal: Why 2014 Matters for 2020 When COVID-19 emerged in 2020, the world witnessed a response that seemed both unprecedented and preternaturally organized. In reality, every mechanism had been operational for years. The emergency declarations, fast-tracked funding, surveillance infrastructure, and DAF opacity were not invented in 2020; they were inherited from the 2014 Ebola playbook. By 2017, internal emails show Epstein, Gates, and Gates' science advisor Boris Nikolic treating 'pandemic' as a 'key area' for donor-advised fund structuresa standing investment category [4]. That same year, an iMessage thread from Epstein's phone shows an associate listing 'pandemics (just did pandemic simulation)' as a career credential while discussing placement into Gates' private office, Merck's vaccine team, and Swiss Re's pandemic reinsurance unit [4]. The associate noted they had 'helped develop parametric trigger'an automated financial mechanism that pays out when a pandemic is declared [4]. Event 201, the coronavirus pandemic simulation co-hosted by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, the World Economic Forum, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in October 2019, was not predictive programming [4]. It was a tabletop exercise using an infrastructure built years earlier. As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. documented, the 'pandemic preparedness' vertical had been established as a standing investment category with reinsurance products and simulation exercises long before COVID-19 [5]. The system was waiting. Conclusion: The System That Never Stood Down The documents do not reveal a conspiracy in the theatrical sense. They reveal an architecturea system meticulously designed to govern through crisis with minimal public oversight. This framework merges private philanthropy with state surveillance, overrides sovereign authority, and operates through unaccountable networks. The question is not whether pandemics are engineered, but why the response mechanisms were pre-engineered for permanent, unaccountable control. The securitization of health, initiated with Ebola, created a precedent. It allowed military deployment, justified cross-border surveillance, and enabled emergency funding structures that outlasted the emergency itself. As NaturalNews.com reported, this has evolved into initiatives like the 'One Health' framework, which critics argue expands government surveillance and centralizes health decision-making [4]. The legacy of 2014 is the system we inhabit today: a world where health emergencies trigger not just medical responses, but a pre-packaged suite of financial instruments, surveillance technologies, and governance models that concentrate power in the hands of a few. It is a world where, as Mike Adams of Brighteon.com warns, 'The threat of pandemics and psychological operations looms large. Vaccines are already prepared for deployment, and all that remains is finding the opportune moment to instill fear among the populace' [6]. For those seeking truth outside the censored corporate media, independent platforms like Brighteon.com, Brighteon.social, and BrightAnswers.ai offer uncensored analysis. The architecture exposed by the Ebola blueprint demands sunlightthe most effective, and cost-free, public health intervention ever devised. References Federal prosecutors downgrade charges against anti-ICE protesters amid rising assaults on law enforcement Attacks on ICE agents have risen dramatically, with a 413% increase in Los Angeles alone, including incidents where officers were pelted with rocks, surrounded by hostile crowds, and doxxed. Despite Attorney General Pam Bondi's vow to prosecute violent protesters under 18 U.S.C. (felony assault on federal officers), half of the 16 Minnesota cases were quietly reduced to misdemeanors, undermining deterrence. Cases like Gillian Etherington (rammed a border patrol vehicle) and Emily Baierl (bit an officer's finger) saw felony charges dropped, signaling weak enforcement against violent agitators. Progressive DAs like Portland's Mike Schmidt refuse to prosecute protest-related misdemeanors, emboldening further violence against law enforcement. DHS officials blame Democratic leaders' rhetoric for escalating hostility, while federal prosecutors' reluctance to pursue felonies raises concerns about political interference in justice. Federal prosecutors in Minnesota have quietly downgraded felony charges against at least half of the 16 anti-ICE agitators arrested last week for allegedly assaulting or interfering with federal agents during immigration enforcement operations. This move comes despite Attorney General Pam Bondi's earlier pledge to prosecute violent protesters under 18 U.S.C., which establishes felony penalties for forcibly assaulting, resisting or impeding federal officers. Instead, many cases have been reduced to lower-level misdemeanors, raising concerns about accountability for escalating violence against law enforcement. Bondi had personally traveled to Minnesota last week to oversee the filing of felony charges against the protesters, vowing on social media, "I am on the ground in Minneapolis today. Federal agents have arrested 16 Minnesota rioters for allegedly assaulting federal law enforcementpeople who have been resisting and impeding our federal law enforcement agents." She added, "NOTHING will stop President Trump and this Department of Justice from enforcing the law." Yet, the DOJ's apparent retreat from felony prosecutions suggests a troubling shiftone that may embolden further attacks on officers. Assaults on ICE officers skyrocket The downgrading of charges coincides with alarming statistics revealing a sharp increase in assaults against ICE officers. According to data from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), agents have faced unprecedented hostility, particularly in liberal strongholds like Los Angeles and Minneapolis, where anti-ICE riots have erupted. Officers report being pelted with rocks, surrounded by hostile crowds and even doxxed online, forcing many to wear masksnot for anonymity, but for protection against retaliation. One particularly harrowing incident occurred in Minnesota, where a convicted child sex offender dragged an ICE officer 50 yards with his vehicle while resisting arrest. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the case as emblematic of the dangers agents now face daily. "This is not an isolated incident," she warned. "Our officers are under siege and the rhetoric from Democratic leaders has only inflamed tensions." Cases downgraded without explanation Among the Minnesota cases, Gillian Etheringtonwho allegedly rammed her car into a Border Patrol vehicle before fleeing, striking an unmarked law enforcement car and continuing to resist arresthad her felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor this past Tuesday with no public explanation. Similarly, Emily Baierl, who bit an officer's finger during a demonstration following the death of Alex Pretti, saw her felony charges dropped to misdemeanors despite clear evidence of physical assault. Legal analysts suggest that the DOJ's reluctance to pursue harsher penalties may stem from defense attorneys' arguments that Bondi's aggressive public statementsincluding releasing photos and videos of defendants before trialcould violate internal DOJ policies and prejudice cases. However, critics argue that this leniency sends a dangerous message: that violent resistance against federal agents will be met with minimal consequences. Portland's troubling precedent The Minnesota cases mirror a broader trend in progressive jurisdictions. In Portland, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced a policy last year declining to prosecute most protest-related misdemeanors, including disorderly conduct and interference with police. Since May 29, Portland Police have filed 417 misdemeanor charges and 133 felony charges against protestersyet the majority of these cases, particularly those without bodily harm, now face reduced likelihood of prosecution. This soft-on-crime approach has drawn fierce backlash from law enforcement groups, who warn that it emboldens violent agitators and endangers officers. "When prosecutors refuse to hold rioters accountable, it tells them they can act with impunity," said one ICE agent, speaking anonymously due to fear of reprisal. DHS calls for de-escalation Amid the surge in assaults, DHS officials are urging Democratic leaders to dial back inflammatory rhetoric that they claim fuels hostility toward federal agents. McLaughlin emphasized that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, violence against law enforcement must be met with swift justice. Yet with federal prosecutors increasingly hesitant to pursue felony chargesespecially in left-leaning districtsmany fear that the rule of law is being undermined. If assaults on ICE officers continue to rise without serious repercussions, the safety of federal agents and the integrity of immigration enforcement could be at risk. For now, the DOJ's mixed messaging leaves a critical question unanswered: Will the federal government stand behind its officersor will political pressures dictate who faces justice? According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, the blatant double standard in prosecuting political dissent reveals a weaponized justice system that protects left-wing agitators while ruthlessly persecuting conservatives. This deliberate imbalance fuels lawlessness against law enforcement and proves the deep state's agenda to dismantle order while silencing opposition. Watch Jesse Watters of Fox News discussing the surrender of sanctuary cities to the influx of illegals in this clip. This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: TheNationalPulse.com BrightU.ai Brighteon.com Lawmakers urge DOJ to investigate New York, California, Maine and Connecticut for denying religious vaccine exemptions A group of 13 members of Congress urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate New York, California, Maine and Connecticut for banning religious exemptions to school vaccine mandates, arguing the laws violate the First Amendment's Free Exercise Clause. In a Feb. 6 letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Civil Rights Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon, Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) said the states are coercing compliance with vaccine mandates at the expense of constitutional and civil liberties. While all four states are cited, lawmakers focused particularly on New York, alleging the state's Department of Health targeted pediatricians through a "School Vaccination Fraud Awareness" campaign that publicly named doctors who granted exemptions, without due process. Lawmakers asked the DOJ to intervene in Children's Health Defense v. McDonald, challenging New York's 2019 repeal of religious exemptions, and Doe v. Oceanside, involving a teen denied a medical vaccine exemption despite recommendations from seven medical providers. Lawmakers warned that these cases present an opportunity for DOJ action to prevent religious families from being excluded from education and to stop school officials from overriding the judgment of parents and physicians. A group of federal lawmakers is urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate four states over laws that prohibit religious exemptions to school vaccine mandates, arguing the policies violate the First Amendment. Religious exemptions to vaccination, as per BrightU.AI's Enoch, are a fundamental right protected by the First Amendment, allowing individuals to opt out of vaccines based on sincerely held religious beliefs, which are not limited to traditional organized religions but can include personal or philosophical convictions. These exemptions are recognized in all but two states, ensuring that individuals can make informed, autonomous decisions about their health without government coercion. In a letter sent to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet K. Dhillon on Friday, Feb. 6, the lawmakers called on the DOJ to examine vaccine mandate laws in New York, California, Maine and Connecticut. They contend the laws infringe on the Constitution's Free Exercise Clause by denying people of faith the ability to opt out of vaccinations required for school attendance. The letter was led by Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) and had been signed by 13 members of Congress as of Friday. "Religious freedom is the cornerstone of our Republic," Steube said. "It is inexcusable that New York, California, Maine and Connecticut refuse to provide people of faith with a religious exemption from their vaccine mandates. This is not only a direct violation of the Free Exercise Clause, but it is also a grave assault on civil liberties." According to the lawmakers, allowing the four states to enforce such laws has encouraged other states, including Massachusetts and Hawaii, to consider eliminating religious exemptions for vaccines, further threatening Americans' rights. Steube then urged the Justice Department to launch formal investigations into states that are "coercing" compliance with vaccine mandates at the expense of constitutional rights. "Your constitutional rights should never take a backseat to a vaccine mandate. That is why I am requesting Attorney General Pam Bondi and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon launch formal investigations of all states that continue to violate the constitutional rights of the American people via coercion and infringement on their religious beliefs," Steube added. Congress alleges New York vaccine cases involve abuse of doctors and families While the letter addresses all four states, it focuses particular scrutiny on New York. Lawmakers allege that the New York Department of Health targeted pediatricians through a "School Vaccination Fraud Awareness" campaign that publicly named doctors who granted exemptions from vaccine mandates. The letter claims the campaign treated physicians "as though they engaged in criminal wrongdoing" without due process, potentially discouraging doctors from exercising independent medical judgment when considering exemption requests. The lawmakers are asking the DOJ to investigate the campaign and to intervene in two high-profile New York lawsuits that illustrate broader constitutional violations tied to the state's vaccine mandate policies. One case, Children's Health Defense v. McDonald, was filed on Dec. 15, 2025, in federal court. Children's Health Defense (CHD) and a group of parents are challenging New York's 2019 law that eliminated religious exemptions for school vaccine requirements, arguing the law violates the First Amendment. The second case, Doe v. Oceanside, was filed on April 17, 2025, by a teenage student, identified as Sarah Doe, and her mother, Jane Doe. The lawsuit challenges a New York school district's decision to deny Sarah a medical exemption from a third hepatitis B vaccine, despite recommendations from seven physicians and medical practitioners who said the teen should not receive the vaccine due to serious medical conditions. On Aug. 8, 2025, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction allowing Sarah to return to school for the fall semester while the case proceeds. CHD is funding the lawsuit. In their letter, the lawmakers wrote that the two cases "present an appropriate opportunity for Department of Justice intervention." An investigation, they said, would help ensure that religious families are not excluded from education and that states do not sidestep constitutional limits by allowing school officials to override the judgment of parents and physicians. Watch the full episode of the "Health Ranger Report" with Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, and Brian Festaas, as they talk about Supreme Court breakthrough for vaccine and religious freedom. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: TheDefender.org 1 TheDefender.org 2 BrightU.ai Brighteon.com The Clawdbot Catastrophe: How AI Hype Unleashed a Digital Apocalypse in Weeks Introduction: The Seductive Promise of AI Convenience In the span of just seventy-two hours in January 2026, an open-source AI assistant named Clawdbot (later rebranded as Moltbot) went viral, amassing over 60,000 stars on GitHub. It was hailed as a revolutionary 'personal Jarvis,' promising ultimate efficiency by automating work and personal tasks. The tools allure was simple: it could operate your system, control browsers, send messages, and execute workflows on your behalf [1]. The public, desperate to offload labor, embraced it en masse, driven by the tantalizing prospect of convenience. This mass adoption highlighted a core, dangerous flaw: to function, Clawdbot required administrative access to everythingyour operating system, applications, and data. Users willingly handed over the keys to their digital kingdoms. As security researcher Nathan Hamiel warned, the architecture was fundamentally insecure, allowing attackers to hide malicious prompts in plain sight [2]. The Clawdbot phenomenon perfectly illustrates a critical worldview failure: the promise of convenience consistently overrides caution and the principle of self-reliance. It proves that when centralized, trust-based systems offer a shortcut, people will abandon their digital sovereignty, trading security for the illusion of ease. The Anatomy of a Catastrophe: Security Evaporates The technical breakdown was swift and devastating. Researchers quickly identified critical vulnerabilities: thousands of instances were deployed with open ports, disabled authentication, and reverse proxy flaws, leaving control panels exposed to the public internet [3]. These misconfigurations earned the software staggering CVE scores of 9.4 to 9.6 [4]. The most egregious flaw was plaintext credential storage. Clawdbot, by design, needed to store API keys, OAuth tokens, and login details to perform its tasks. It kept these in unencrypted form, creating a treasure trove for information-stealing malware [5]. Simultaneously, the system was vulnerable to prompt injection attacks. As noted by security experts, a malicious actor could embed instructions in an email or document that, when processed by Clawdbot, would trigger remote takeover commands [2]. This turned a simple email into a powerful remote control tool. The catastrophe underscores a fundamental truth: centralized, trust-based systems inevitably fail. They create single points of failure that bad actors exploit with ease. This episode vindicates the need for decentralized, user-controlled security models where individuals, not remote agents, hold the keys to their own data and systems. The Supply Chain Poisoning: Malware Poses as 'Skills' The disaster quickly metastasized through the tools ecosystem. Clawdbot featured a central repository called ClawHub, where users could install 'skills'add-ons to extend functionality. This became the vector for a massive supply chain attack. Researchers from OpenSourceMalware identified 341 malicious skills disguised as legitimate tools like crypto trading assistants or productivity boosters [6]. These fake skills were mass-installed across vulnerable systems, exploiting the trust users placed in the official repository. The payloads were diverse and destructive. Some were cryptocurrency wallet drainers, designed to siphon funds. Others were credential harvesters or system backdoors, providing persistent remote access [7]. This exploitation mirrors a broader societal pattern: uncritical trust in unvetted 'official' repositories is akin to blind trust in corrupt institutions. Whether it's a centralized app store, a government health agency pushing untested pharmaceuticals, or a tech platform censoring dissent, the dynamic is the same. Centralized points of distribution become tools for poisoning the population, whether with digital malware or medical misinformation. The Perfect Storm: Bad Actors Hoover Up the World The stage was set for a coordinated global heist. Within days, major Malware-as-a-Service families had deployed Clawdbot-specific modules, actively targeting the exposed instances [8]. The scale was breathtaking: over 42,000 instances were left open, and researchers confirmed more than 900 were compromised [9]. The question arises: who benefits from millions of stolen API keys, psychological dossiers, and financial credentials? [10] The sophistication hints at state-level actors. The operation shares parallels with Stuxneta highly targeted, strategically valuable cyber weapon. The stolen data provides not just immediate financial looting potential (via crypto drains and bank fraud) but long-term strategic access. With credentials to corporate systems, state actors could execute mass delete commands, sabotage critical infrastructure, or engage in prolonged espionage [11]. This aligns with documented campaigns by state-sponsored groups like China's 'Salt Typhoon,' which has previously breached U.S. telecom giants to harvest metadata on millions, including high-profile officials [12]. The worldview lens is clear: globalist and state actors are weaponizing technological dependency. They encourage the adoption of invasive, centralized tools precisely to create vulnerabilities they can later exploit for control, sabotage, or intelligence gathering, turning the population's own tools against them. The Deeper Lesson: AI, Trust, and Digital Self-Defense The Clawdbot catastrophe is not an anomaly; it is a logical endpoint. The core failure was the trade of privacy and security for perceived conveniencea bargain that always benefits the controller, not the user. There is a critical difference between empowering tools and invasive agents. Empowering tools are local, non-executable assistants that help you research and organize information without taking action on your behalf. Invasive agents like Clawdbot require execution privileges, fundamentally breaching the security boundary between user and machine. The principle of self-reliance provides the antidote. It demands vetting technology, controlling access, and maintaining digital sovereignty. This means using local, open-source software where possible, employing robust encryption, and rejecting tools that demand blanket administrative rights. As Mike Adams advocates in his interviews, the solution lies in decentralization and tools that enhance user capability without compromising control [13]. The warning extends far beyond this one AI assistant. The coming wave of 'smart' technologyfrom Internet of Things devices and household robots to integrated AI in operating systems like Microsoft's Recall featureposes the same threat on a planetary scale [14]. Each centralized, data-hungry device is a potential entry point for the next digital apocalypse. The path forward is not to reject technology, but to embrace models that respect user sovereignty, privacy, and the fundamental right to self-defense in the digital realm. Conclusion: Reclaiming Digital Sovereignty The Clawdbot story is a firebell in the night. It demonstrates how rapidly viral hype, combined with flawed, centralized architecture, can create a systemic crisis. In mere weeks, a tool celebrated for its potential became a vehicle for global theft and espionage. This event should shatter any remaining illusion that trusting distant corporations or state-aligned entities with our digital lives is safe or wise. The future of resilient technology lies in decentralization and user empowerment. Platforms that prioritize these principles, such as the uncensored AI research engine at BrightAnswers.ai or the free-speech video platform Brighteon.com, offer alternatives to the centralized models that failed so spectacularly. For those seeking knowledge free from institutional censorship, resources like the free book library at BrightLearn.ai provide tools for true self-education. The lesson of Clawdbot is ultimately one of personal responsibility. In a world eager to automate your life, your greatest security is your own skepticism, your commitment to self-reliance, and your choice to use technology as a tool for liberation, not a chain of dependency. References Introduction The recent death of a New Mexico infant is an unspeakable tragedy, a loss that demands profound compassion and sober reflection. Yet, before the family had time to grieve, a chorus of institutional voices and media headlines descended, swiftly attributing the death to the mother's consumption of raw milk. This immediate, emotionally charged assignment of blame is not merely reporting; it is a well-worn tactic, weaponizing personal sorrow to advance a predetermined narrative of fear and control over our food. As we examine the facts and the broader context of food freedom, a different story emergesone of institutional overreach, suppressed alternatives, and a relentless campaign to criminalize natural, sovereign food choices. A Family's Tragedy and the Rush to Blame In early February 2026, health officials announced a newborn had died from a listeria infection. The New Mexico Department of Health stated they believed 'the most likely source of infection' was the mother drinking raw milk, but crucially admitted that 'investigators cannot pinpoint the exact cause.' [1] This crucial admission reveals the narrative's shaky foundation. The link is based on probability, not conclusive proof. Yet, the emotional weight of a baby's death is immediately leveraged to issue 'urgent warnings' against raw milk consumption nationwide, framing a personal tragedy as a public health crisis demanding institutional intervention. [2] This pattern is familiar. A single, heartbreaking event becomes the pretext for sweeping generalizations and calls for bans, sidelining nuance and individual circumstance in favor of a top-down, fear-based policy agenda. The Pasteurization Debate: Safety vs. Sovereignty The mainstream narrative presents pasteurization as an unquestionable pillar of safety. The process, which involves heating milk to kill pathogens, is indeed effective in the context of a centralized, industrialized dairy system. However, this framing deliberately ignores the other side of the equation: what is lost. For advocates of clean, local food, raw milk from healthy, pasture-raised animals on small farms is not a dangerous novelty but a nutritional powerhouse. The heat of pasteurization destroys beneficial enzymes, probiotics, and heat-sensitive vitamins that contribute to gut health, immunity, and overall well-being. [3] The debate is falsely reduced to 'safe vs. unsafe,' erasing the deeper principles of food sovereigntythe right to know your farmer, to support regenerative agriculture, and to reject a homogenized, processed food supply. As author Marion Nestle notes in her book 'Safe Food,' a century ago, the main sources of foodborne illness were 'milk from infected cows and spoiled meat from sick animals' within a problematic system. [4] The solution pushed today is not to fix the system at its source, but to mandate a one-size-fits-all industrial process that conveniently protects the economic model of large-scale production. Institutional Overreach and the Criminalization of Choice The urgent edicts from health agencies reflect a deeper philosophy: that individuals are incapable of informed risk assessment regarding their own bodies. This paternalistic impulse treats adults as children, requiring government permission for basic nourishment. It mirrors the suppression of other natural health choices, from herbal medicine to nutrient therapies. The push for bans is less about documented public health risk and more about enforcing monopoly control. As Dr. Mercola argues, 'The war on raw milk is not about safety; it's about control.' [5] Small, independent producers who offer transparency and a direct relationship with consumers pose a threat to large dairy conglomerates and the centralized food chain they dominate. This is evidenced by the legal battles faced by farmers like Amos and Rebecca Miller, an Amish family in Pennsylvania who continue to fight for the right to sell their products directly to consumers who seek them out. [6] This institutional hostility stands in stark contrast to the approach in parts of Europe, where raw milk vending machines on family farms provide direct consumer access, recognizing both choice and the value of local food systems. [7] Beyond the Headline: Cultivating True Food Safety True food safety cannot be mandated by a government decree; it is cultivated through transparency, decentralization, and integrity. It arises from clean farming practices, animals living in their natural habitats on pasture, and short, visible supply chains where consumers can verify standards firsthand. Focusing obsessively on pasteurization as the only solution is a dangerous distraction. It ignores the root causes of contamination: the crowded, unsanitary, and stressful conditions of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). [8] These industrial facilities are perpetual reservoirs for pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella. [4] A system that prioritizes cheap mass production will inevitably cut corners on animal welfare and environmental health, creating the very problems pasteurization attempts to clean up. The path forward is not more processing of inherently compromised food, but a return to producing clean food from the start. Supporting regenerative agriculture and local food webs addresses the cause, not just the symptom. Conclusion: Honoring Life by Upholding Liberty and Truth Every life lost is precious, and such a loss demands honest, compassionate inquirynot exploitation to serve a political or corporate agenda. We must ask why institutional voices so aggressively target a natural, traditional food choice while routinely downplaying the chronic, widespread harms of the industrialized, processed food system they enable. The ultimate answer lies in personal liberty, informed consent, and the fundamental right to seek nourishment from sources we trust. Building resilient, local food networksa movement powerfully championed in books like 'Growing Freedom: How Food Forests Decentralize Power and Nourish the Soul'is the path to genuine health and sovereignty. [9] In memory of the child lost, we should champion a system that values life, transparency, and freedom over control, fear, and corporate profit. The choice for clean, natural food is a choice for a healthier, more sovereign future. For those seeking uncensored information on natural health and food freedom, trusted independent sources include NaturalNews.com, Brighteon.com for free-speech video, and BrightAnswers.ai for honest AI research. References Radical left-wing groups embrace armed militancy amid anti-ICE protests, watchdog warns Far-left activists protesting ICE operations are increasingly adopting violent rhetoric and armed insurgency tactics, including calls for "complete annihilation" of political opponents, raising concerns among counterterrorism experts. An anarchist manifesto advocating violent resistance and territorial control has reappeared on radical platforms, criticizing passive protests and endorsing armed militancy, with growing support among leftist firearms trainers and revolutionary groups. Anti-ICE protests in Minnesota have turned confrontational, with activists using barricades, identity checks and violent clashesmirroring the manifesto's call for territorial control and treating ideological opponents as "enemy combatants." The manifesto's rhetoric echoes past extremist movements (e.g., Weather Underground, Antifa) but stands out for its explicit push for territorial conquesta tactic more common in foreign insurgenciesraising fears of organized, deadly clashes with law enforcement. The report warns of increasing risks to federal agents (particularly ICE) from ambush attacks and staged provocations, with Minnesota serving as a potential blueprint for nationwide unrest, demanding heightened vigilance from authorities and the public. A surge in violent rhetoric and militant tactics among far-left activists protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations has raised alarms among counterterrorism experts. According to a new report by the Center for Security Policy (CSP), anarchist groups are increasingly promoting armed insurgency, territorial control and the "complete annihilation" of political opponents. The findings, first reported by the Daily Caller News Foundation, highlight escalating tensions in Minnesota, where recent anti-ICE protests have turned confrontationalraising concerns about potential ambush attacks on federal agents and broader civil unrest. The report focuses on an anarchist manifesto, originally published in October 2023, which has recently reappeared on radical platforms. The document outlines strategies for "building an insurgency in the U.S." and advocates for violent resistance against perceived enemies of the far-left movement. Counterterrorism analyst Kyle Shideler, who authored the report, warns that the manifesto aligns with a growing trend among anarchist and anti-fascist groups endorsing armed militancy. "Despite potential ideological reservations in some quarters, while difficult to quantify, an observation of anarchist and anti-fascist social media accounts does seem to suggest that support for armed militancy has increased steadily," Shideler wrote. "This support includes a growing cadre of firearms trainers and armed organizations with an explicitly revolutionary leftist orientation." From protest to insurrection: The Minnesota testing ground The manifesto criticizes passive protest tactics, such as "ICE Watch" surveillance and anti-Israel encampments, as insufficiently aggressive. Instead, it calls for seizing and holding U.S. territorya strategy likened to recent anti-ICE blockades in Minneapolis, where activists obstructed roads, checked drivers' identities and clashed with law enforcement. Minnesota has emerged as a flashpoint for escalating tensions between left-wing activists and federal authorities. During recent demonstrations, protesters deployed makeshift barricades to impede ICE operations, at times leading to violent altercationsincluding an assault on a Daily Caller reporter. The manifesto's author frames ideological opponents as "enemy combatants" who must be forcibly removed from "liberated territories." "The ideologically hardened right-wingers are essentially enemy combatants," the document states. "Whether they are currently active is not so much a question. If allowed to remain in a territory, they may be or could become agents of the counterinsurgent." The report draws parallels between this rhetoric and past extremist movements that sought territorial control before escalating to outright insurrection. Shideler warns that Minnesota's unrest may serve as a blueprint for future confrontations nationwide. Historical context: Echoes of past extremism The call for armed insurgency mirrors historical precedents, from radical groups like the Weather Underground to more recent anarchist movements such as Antifa. According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, the Weather Underground was a violent extremist left-wing group in the 1970s that sought to overthrow the U.S. government through terrorism, including bombings, and advocated for mass executions to install a communist regime, Meanwhile, the decentralized engine defines Antifa as a far-left movement that claims to oppose fascism but employs violent tactics, anarchist-communist ideology and destructive riots, often dishonoring legitimate causes while pushing a dangerous anti-capitalist, anti-authoritarian agenda. What distinguishes the current wave, however, is its explicit endorsement of territorial conquesta tactic more commonly associated with separatist or guerrilla conflicts abroad. The manifesto's chilling directive"Complete annihilation is essential"has drawn comparisons to extremist ideologies that justify violence as a means of revolution. Experts warn that such rhetoric, combined with increasing left-wing firearms training, could lead to more organized and deadly clashes with law enforcement. As anti-ICE protests intensify, the CSP's report underscores a dangerous shift toward armed militancy among radical factions. With Minnesota serving as a testing ground for insurrectionist tactics, federal and local authorities face mounting challenges in maintaining public safety. The manifesto's resurgence suggests a hardening of ideological linesand raises urgent questions about how law enforcement will respond to an increasingly volatile threat landscape. For now, the warning is clear: the potential for targeted violence against federal agents and political adversaries is growing, demanding heightened vigilance from both authorities and the public. Watch the video below that talks about who is funding the anti-ICE protests. This video is from the alltheworldsastage channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: YourNews.com Scribd.com DailyCallerNewsFoundation.org BrightU.ai Brighteon.com White House denies plans for ICE polling place presence but leaves door open The Trump administration clarified it has no current plans to station ICE agents at polling locations during the midterm elections. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed speculation as a "silly hypothetical" but did not rule out federal presence entirely. Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon suggested ICE would "surround the polls," sparking concerns over voter intimidation vs. election security. Trump has long claimed illegal voting by noncitizens, though verified cases are rare (per Brennan Center). Civil rights groups argue ICE presenceeven perceivedcould deter minority voters. ACLU calls any deployment "illegal voter intimidation," while Trump officials frame it as fraud prevention. Federal law bans military troops at polls but doesn't clearly restrict ICE (a civilian agency). Virginia Democrats introduced legislation explicitly banning ICE near polling sites, reflecting tensions between federal and local control. Republicans advocate stricter citizenship verification (e.g., SAVE Act), while Democrats see such measures as discriminatory. The debate highlights conflicting views: Is enforcement protecting democracy or suppressing votes? With midterms approaching, the issue remains unresolved but politically charged. The White House clarified on Thursday, Feb. 5, that President Donald Trump has not discussed formal plans to deploy U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at polling locations during the November midterm elections. However, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declined to guarantee that federal agents would be entirely absent from voting sites, calling such speculation a "silly hypothetical." The remarks came in response to questions about former Trump adviser Steve Bannon's suggestion that ICE would "surround the polls come November," reigniting debates over election integrity, voter intimidation and federal overreach. Debate over election integrity vs. voter intimidation Trump has long asserted that noncitizens vote illegally in U.S. elections, citing studies including a 2014 academic paper suggesting minimal noncitizen participation, while critics argue verified cases are "vanishingly rare," per the Brennan Center for Justice. The president recently urged Republicans to "nationalize" and "take over" voting in areas he claims are plagued by fraud, though Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) distanced himself from federalizing elections, emphasizing state responsibility. Democrats and civil rights groups warn that even the perception of ICE presence near polling places could suppress turnout, particularly in minority communities. The ACLU has called any such deployment "illegal voter intimidation," while Trump officials frame it as safeguarding election integrity. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard underscored the administration's stance, stating, "Interference in U.S. elections is a threat to our republic," whether foreign or domestic. Legal boundaries and historical precedents According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, Federal law (18 U.S. Code 592) prohibits federal employees from using their official authority to influence or interfere with elections, ensuring government neutrality in political processes. This includes deploying military troops at polling locations unless repelling armed enemies. However, ICEa civilian agencyoperates under different rules. Still, existing statutes bar intimidation or interference with voters. Virginia Democrats have pushed legislation explicitly banning ICE activity near polls, reflecting broader tensions between federal enforcement and local election administration. Historically, fears of voter suppression have flared around immigration enforcement. In 2020, reports of Customs and Border Protection checkpoints near Arizona polling sites sparked outcry, though officials denied targeting voters. The current debate echoes past clashes over voter ID laws and citizenship verification, with Republicans advocating measures like the SAVE Actmandating proof of citizenshipas safeguards, while opponents decry them as discriminatory. As November approaches, the specter of ICE at polling places remains uncertain but politically potent. While the White House denies active plans, its refusal to rule out a federal presence fuels anxieties among voting-rights advocates and bolsters Trump's narrative of rampant fraud. The clash underscores a deeper divide: whether stronger enforcement protects democracy or undermines it. With states like Virginia preemptively legislating against ICE involvement, the battle over who controls election securityand howis far from settled. Watch the video below that talks about how the focus on abolishing or defunding ICE may undercut Democrats' midterm election message. This video is from the Trending channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com TheEpochTimes.com BrightU.ai Brighteon.com Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. India, led by Additional Secretary Prashant Pise, actively participated in the 8th Ministerial Consultations of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue in Dubai. The discussions centered on promoting safe migration and safeguarding the rights and welfare of Indian migrant workers in the UAE. Bilateral meetings with UAE officials covered measures for worker welfare, labour mobility, and skills development. The dialogue reinforces the long-standing diplomatic relationship between India and the UAE, established in 1972. India engages with UAE on labour mobility, skills development, and welfare measures for migrant workers at the 8th Abu Dhabi Dialogue ministerial meeting. New Delhi, February 10 Prashant Pise, Additional Secretary, led the Indian delegation to the 8th Ministerial Consultations of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue held in Dubai from January 31 to February 1, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said. Established in 2008, the Abu Dhabi Dialogue is a regional, voluntary, and non-binding consultative mechanism comprising 11 Asian countries of labour origin and 7 destination states. It provides a platform for cooperation on contractual labour mobility, exchange of best practices, and sharing of experiences among Member States. India's active engagement in the ADD reflects the Government of India's commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration, while safeguarding the welfare and rights of Indian migrant workers, as per the statement. On the sidelines of the event, the Additional Secretary held bilateral meetings with the Undersecretary of Labour Market Development and Regulation and the Assistant Undersecretary for Communications and International Relations, Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation of the United Arab Emirates, to discuss various measures taken by the two governments to ensure the welfare of Indian migrant workers in the UAE, as per the MEA statement. The discussions also touched on labour mobility, skills development, and the use of technological solutions to strengthen labour mobility between the two countries. In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Dubai said, "Shri Prashant Pise, Additional Secretary (Emigration Policy & Welfare), MEA, led the Indian delegation to the 8th Ministerial Consultations of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue held in Dubai." Meanwhile, on January 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that "India's family system formed an integral part of our tradition" and said that many countries around the world hold such family systems in "high regard". During his Mann ki Baat, PM Modi said, "India's family system is an integral part of our tradition. It is viewed with great curiosity in many countries around the world. Many countries hold such family systems in high regard." India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) established diplomatic relations in 1972. While the UAE opened its Embassy in India in 1972, the Indian Embassy in UAE was opened in 1973. - ANI Adani Energy Solutions has secured long-term financing from a consortium of Japanese banks for its flagship high-voltage direct current transmission project. The 950-kilometre green corridor will connect Bhadla in Rajasthan to Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh with a capacity of 6,000 MW. Scheduled for commissioning by 2029, it is designed to evacuate renewable energy and strengthen grid stability. The financing is led by MUFG Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, reflecting international confidence in India's renewable infrastructure. Adani Energy Solutions secures Japanese bank financing for a major 950-km HVDC transmission project to evacuate renewable energy from Rajasthan. Ahmedabad, February 9 Adani Energy Solutions has secured long-term financing from a consortium of Japanese banks for its flagship high-voltage direct current transmission project, a green evacuation corridor aimed at strengthening the flow of renewable power across northern India, the company said in an official statement on Monday. The company said the project will play a central role in evacuating renewable energy from Rajasthan's solar-rich regions and delivering it into India's national grid, supporting the country's expanding clean power demand. Designed as a high-capacity +-800 kV HVDC network, the project will have an evacuation capacity of 6,000 MW. The 950-kilometre corridor will connect Bhadla in Rajasthan to Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh. Scheduled for commissioning by 2029, the HVDC link is expected to become a critical green transmission artery, enabling large-scale integration of renewable energy while strengthening grid stability for some of India's most energy-intensive urban and industrial centres. The asset forms part of the Adani Group's integrated clean energy platform. Rajasthan remains a key generation hub for Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), whose projects already supply clean power to AESL's subsidiary, Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited (AEML). AEML currently integrates more than 40 per cent renewable energy into its supply mix, positioning Mumbai among the world's largest cities with significant sustainable power penetration. The financing is being led by Japanese banking partners MUFG Bank Ltd. and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), underscoring sustained international confidence in India's renewable infrastructure build-out. The project is also supported by advanced HVDC technology from Hitachi, delivered in collaboration with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), leveraging India's domestic manufacturing ecosystem. The company also noted that these partnerships reflect Japan's leadership in critical transmission technologies and India's push to deepen local manufacturing under the Make-in-India initiative. The strengthening India-Japan financial and industrial corridor is further reflected in AESL's recent BBB+ (Stable) credit rating from Japanese agency JCR, aligned with India's sovereign rating. Commenting on the development, Kandarp Patel, CEO of AESL, said, "This project marks a defining step in building India's green transmission backbone. The continued support from our Japanese partners--including leading banks and Hitachi-- reflects the depth of the India-Japan partnership and our shared commitment to enabling a sustainable energy future. AESL remains focused on developing resilient, future-ready transmission infrastructure to accelerate India's energy transition." The financing has been raised under AESL's sustainable debt framework and is aligned with the Equator Principles, enabling participating lenders to classify the facility as a Green Loan. Latham & Watkins and Saraf & Partners acted as borrower's counsel, while Linklaters and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas advised the lenders on the transaction. - ANI Adani International School in Ahmedabad hosted the three-day IRIS National Fair 2025-26, bringing together 75 student innovators from across India. The event aimed to position the school as a national platform for early-stage STEM research and innovation. Gujarat's Minister of State for Education, Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja, emphasized embedding research early in education during the valedictory ceremony. The fair featured student exhibitions, expert mentoring, and conferences for educators to promote experiential learning. Adani International School hosted the IRIS National Fair, bringing together 75 student innovators to showcase research and boost scientific temperament. Ahmedabad, Feb 9 Showcasing India's emerging science, technology, engineering and mathematics talent, Adani International School, Shantigram, hosted the IRIS National Fair 2025-26 from February 6-8. The three-day national programme ( (Cohort 2) brought together 75 student innovators from 12 states and 24 cities, alongside educators, researchers and mentors, positioning Ahmedabad as a national platform for school-level STEM research and innovation. Addressing the valedictory ceremony, Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja, Minister of State for Education, underscored the need to embed research and innovation early in the education journey. "Research is no longer confined to laboratories of universities. It begins in institutions like Adani International School. When students start asking questions early and learn to test ideas and learn from failure, they build the foundation of scientific temperament. Schools must therefore become incubators of ideas and solutions, not just centres of instruction," she noted. Namrata Adani, Promoter, ADIS and Director (Non-Executive), Adani Group, said, "At Adani International School, we believe curiosity must be nurtured early and learning must extend beyond textbooks. Platforms like the IRIS National Fair allow students to question, experiment and apply knowledge to real-world challenges." Designed to move learning beyond classrooms and textbooks, the fair combined student research exhibitions, structured mentoring, symposia and public engagement, enabling participants to engage with real-world scientific inquiry and problem-solving. The programme opened with a Principals' and Educators' Conference that brought together school leaders from across Ahmedabad to deliberate on strengthening inquiry-based STEM pedagogy and experiential classroom practices. Students showcased original research through curated exhibitions, supported by expert evaluation and mentoring. The valedictory ceremony was attended by senior leaders, including Namrata Adani and Amit Singh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), International Energy Business, Adani Group, who spoke on behalf of the diversified conglomerate. The successful conclusion of IRIS National Fair 2025-26 highlighted the growing role of schools as catalysts for early-stage research, collaboration and innovation, strengthening the foundation for India's next generation of scientific thinkers. Adani International School provides a global learning experience with future-ready educational application. It integrates an experiential teaching process with state-of-the-art technology into its learning curriculum, inspiring students to develop crucial life skills. - IANS Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav held an interactive session with students in Bhopal ahead of the MP Board Class 10 and 12 examinations. He advised students to remain stress-free, focus on time management, and ensure adequate sleep during the exam period. The CM emphasized open communication with parents and continuous self-improvement for students as future leaders. The MPBSE exams begin on February 10 for Class 12 and February 13 for Class 10, with strict protocols in place to ensure fairness. Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav advises students on stress management, sleep, and preparation for MPBSE Class 10, 12 board exams starting Feb 10. Bhopal, Feb 9 With the annual examinations for Class 10 and Class 12 students under the Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education set to begin from Tuesday, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Monday held an interactive session with students at a government school in Bhopal. Addressing the programme titled 'Dialogue on Exams - 2026', Chief Minister Yadav advised students to remain stress-free during examinations, focus on time management and develop self-confidence. He also advised students to discuss subjects from the curriculum with their friends and teachers, saying that such interaction would help improve preparation ahead of the examinations. "All students should get enough sleep during exam time. They should set a study schedule. After studying a subject, they should make it a habit to reflect on it," Yadav said. On the occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with students, listened to their queries and advised them to move forward in building their future with a positive mindset. Responding to a question from a student, Lakshmi Tiwari, Yadav advised children to communicate openly with their parents and share their problems. "Today's students are the future of the country. They will be the ones to lead the nation in the coming years. Therefore, all students should continuously improve their skills, knowledge and performance to refine themselves," he said. Madhya Pradesh School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh and senior officials from the department also attended the programme organised at the government-run Subhash Excellence School in Bhopal. According to the MPBSE notification, students have been instructed to report to their respective examination centres by 8 a.m. Entry to the examination hall will be closed 15 minutes after the commencement of the exam, and question papers will be distributed five minutes before the start time. The board examinations for Class 12 students will begin on Tuesday (February 10), while those for Class 10 students will start from February 13. To ensure that the examinations are fair, transparent and free from cheating, the MPBSE has issued strict guidelines. Notably, no student will be allowed to leave the examination hall during the first two hours after the exam begins. - IANS The All India Distillers' Association has urged the government to reduce GST on flex-fuel vehicles to encourage their adoption and address a growing ethanol surplus. India achieved its 20% ethanol blending target five years ahead of schedule, leading to excess production capacity and uncertainty over future demand. The association is also advocating for an expansion of ethanol dispensing infrastructure and exploring new applications like ethanol-diesel blending and maritime fuels. Policy clarity is seen as urgent to support ethanol as an indigenous, cleaner alternative that benefits farmers and enhances energy security. India's distillery industry calls for GST reduction on flex-fuel vehicles and expanded ethanol infrastructure as the country faces an ethanol surplus after hitting its E20 blending target early. By Kaushal Verma, New Delhi, February 9 India's distillery industry has urged the government to cut goods and services tax on flex-fuel vehicles to boost ethanol consumption, as the country faces a surplus of ethanol after achieving its 20% blending target well ahead of schedule, Bharati Balaji, Director of the All India Distillers' Association, said on Monday. "Flex-fuel vehicles are significantly more expensive to produce compared with conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, and unless GST is rationalised it will be difficult for manufacturers to scale them up," Bharati Balaji, Director of the All India Distillers Association (AIDA), told ANI on the sidelines of a roundtable on ethanol-diesel and isobutanol blending. Balaji said AIDA has sought a reduction in GST on flex-fuel vehicles as an interim measure while the government works on a policy roadmap beyond E20 through an inter-ministerial committee (IMC). Under the current structure, GST on smaller two-wheelers and four-wheelers is 18%, while larger flex-fuel vehicles attract GST of up to 40%, she said. AIDA has proposed cutting the higher rate to 12% and lowering the 18% slab to 5%. India achieved 20% ethanol blending, known as E20, in 2025, five years ahead of the government's original 2030 deadline, supported by policy incentives that encouraged large investments in grain-based and molasses-based distilleries. As a result, the industry is now grappling with excess ethanol capacity and uncertainty over demand growth beyond E20. Balaji said the association has been engaging with multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Department of Food and Public Distribution and the Prime Minister's Office, seeking clarity and interim relief measures until a post-E20 policy is finalised. In addition to GST cuts, AIDA is pushing for exemptions on state-level road taxes for flex-fuel vehicles to encourage adoption. Balaji cited Sikkim as an example, where road tax exemptions have been extended to flex-fuel and hybrid vehicles as part of efforts to promote cleaner transport. "The association is also seeking a rapid expansion of ethanol dispensing infrastructure. India currently has around 100 ethanol dispensing stations," Balaji said, adding that AIDA wants the country to move towards a Brazil-style model where vehicles can use petrol, ethanol or blended fuels, with pricing reflecting the fuel choice. Such a system would require dual pricing for blended and unblended fuels. Balaji said the government has also indicated that the industry should explore additional green pathways beyond ethanol blending, noting that distilleries are increasingly functioning as bio-refineries. Products such as dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), ethanol, hydrogen, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel can all be derived from the same ecosystem, she said. At the roundtable, AIDA discussed two emerging areas: ethanol-diesel blending and isobutanol blending with diesel. The meeting included domestic industry members, international experts with experience advising governments on ethanol blending, and former public transport officials. The discussions focused on technical feasibility, commercial viability and compatibility with existing systems, Balaji said, adding that the feedback was positive and further engagements with government stakeholders were planned. Beyond road transport, AIDA is also exploring the use of ethanol in maritime fuels. Balaji said shipping remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels and accounts for a significant share of global fuel consumption, making it another potential avenue for biofuels, though the segment is still at an early stage. Balaji said policy clarity has become increasingly urgent amid debates on pollution control and the future of mobility. She cited a Supreme Court order in January 2026 that acknowledged electric vehicles may be the future but said their impact on consumers and the economy still needs evaluation, while asking the Centre for Air Quality Management to examine alternative fuels such as flex-fuels and hydrogen. "Ethanol is an indigenous fuel that supports farmers, reduces pollution and strengthens energy security," she said, adding that the industry was seeking policy support to ensure it remains a central part of India's transition to cleaner transport. Vijendra Singh, President of the All India Distillers Association (AIDA), said industry and policymakers are exploring ways to expand ethanol use beyond petrol blending as India has already achieved 20% ethanol blending (E20). "We represented about 119 distilleries, and now the focus is on how to increase blending further," Singh told ANI, adding that experts discussed ethanol-diesel and isobutanol-diesel blending as possible options. Singh said ethanol consumption is "defined at about 1,000 crore litres under E20," and demand will rise proportionately if blending increases. He noted Brazil's experience shows flex-fuel technology is proven, but its rollout in India will take time. - ANI Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has firmly ruled out any increase in power tariffs, assuring that benefits from true-down charges will be passed directly to consumers. He directed officials to accelerate renewable energy projects, including solar rooftops and wind power, aiming to reduce power purchase costs and achieve a surplus. The CM also emphasized developing Rayalaseema as a major horticulture hub through public and private investment, targeting a massive increase in produce. Furthermore, he called for simplifying administrative procedures across key departments and improving digital governance to make public services more accessible. Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announces no power tariff hike, directs officials to pass on true-down charges to consumers and boost renewable energy. Amaravati, Feb 9 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday made it clear that there will be no power tariff hike and that the benefits of true-down charges will be passed on directly to consumers. Addressing the ministers and secretaries conference at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister said power generation should be carried out with the concept of net-zero elimination. He directed officials to ensure that true-down charges are transferred directly to consumers. He called for speeding up solar rooftop projects, wind and pumped storage power generation. He said the state, which earlier faced a power shortage, is now moving forward. towards the power surplus stage. Efforts are on to reduce the power purchase price to Rs 3.90, he said. The Chief Minister directed the officials to constantly monitor opportunities to ensure marketing support and better prices for agricultural produce. Greater focus should be on crops with global markets. "To develop Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub, we should focus not only on Central government funds but also on private investments," he said. CM Chandrababu Naidu noted that Rayalaseema alone is currently producing 22 million tonnes of horticulture produce, and a target of 40 million tonnes has been set. He said a four-lane railway line from Ichchapuram to Nellore is under construction, and the high-speed train project will also materialise soon. He said at least 1,000 buses in the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) should be converted to EVs. Citing an example of administrative delays, he said that to set up a small rice mill, more than 30 permissions are required, and this must change. On one hand, we talk about the speed of doing business, and on the other, such hurdles still exist. Rules must be simplified in key departments such as Fire Services, Municipal Administration, Forest, School Education and others, he said. He asked officials to ensure that government services are accessible through WhatsApp. Good governance means people should be able to complete their work without repeatedly visiting government offices, he said. He said that complaints are still being received that officials in NTR and Krishna districts are creating hurdles in the supply of sand and gravel required for the capital city, and directed the officials to ensure uninterrupted material supply so that construction in the capital region faces no obstacles. - IANS The 'Samudra se Parvat Tak' joint bike rally organized by the Indian Coast Guard and Assam Rifles successfully culminated at the historic Pangsau Pass on the India-Myanmar border. The event included interactions with students, motivational talks, and film screenings to inspire youth about service and discipline. The ceremony featured a pipe band performance and engagement with local residents, including Myanmar nationals, to foster goodwill. In a related development, the Indian Army launched 'Mission Krishiveer' in East Siang district to create a direct farm-to-force supply chain for fresh produce. A joint bike rally by Assam Rifles and Indian Coast Guard, 'Samudra se Parvat Tak,' concludes at Pangsau Pass, promoting inter-service synergy and border outreach. Itanagar, Feb 9 Symbolising unity and inter-service synergy, the Assam Rifles-Indian Coast Guard joint bike rally culminated at the historic Pangsau Pass on Monday, officials said. Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said that Phase-II of the 'Samudra se Parvat Tak' joint bike rally, organised by the Indian Coast Guard in collaboration with the Assam Rifles, marked the successful completion of a unique outreach initiative highlighting national resolve and seamless integration between India's maritime and land-based forces. Pangsau Pass, also known as Pan Saung Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,727 feet on the crest of the Patkai Hills along the India-Myanmar border, served as the symbolic culmination point of the rally. Lt Col Rawat said that on the final day, the rally proceeded from Jairampur to Nampong Higher Secondary School, where the participants interacted with students and local residents. Motivational talks were delivered, and inspirational films showcasing the ethos, roles, and commitment of the Indian Coast Guard and the Assam Rifles were screened to instil values of discipline, service, and nation-building among the youth. The rally was flagged in at Pangsau Pass by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Assam Rifles. The culmination ceremony featured a vibrant Assam Rifles pipe band performance, presentation of mementoes, and interactions with local residents, including cross-border engagement with Myanmar nationals, reinforcing people-to-people connections and fostering goodwill along the international boundary. The spokesman said that the 'Samudra se Parvat Tak' joint bike rally stands as a strong expression of inter-service coordination, youth engagement and border outreach, strengthening national integration from the seas to the mountains. Meanwhile, the Indian Army on Monday launched 'Mission Krishiveer' to strengthen farm-to-force linkage in East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Lt Col Rawat said that the Spearhead Division of the Spear Corps launched the initiative at Sigar Military Station in collaboration with the Army Service Corps. The project establishes a structured "farm-to-force" supply chain by directly linking local farmers with Army units deployed in the region. The initiative aims to ensure a steady supply of fresh, high-quality agricultural produce to troops while simultaneously enhancing income opportunities for farmers in the state. The event was attended by Mebo Assembly constituency MLA Oken Tayeng, senior Army officials, representatives of the civil administration and local farmers. - IANS Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi, a prayer and cultural centre at Modirijo. He highlighted the centre as a community-led effort, with over 700 donors contributing to its construction. Khandu reaffirmed the government's commitment to preserving indigenous faiths, noting initiatives like the Department of Indigenous Affairs and the declaration of Donyi Polo Day. He also announced plans for a dedicated university for indigenous studies to ensure the long-term survival of these traditions. CM Pema Khandu inaugurates Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi, reaffirming commitment to preserve Arunachal's indigenous faiths and cultural identity. Itanagar, February 9 Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the newly consecrated Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi, a Donyi Polo prayer and cultural centre, at Modirijo in Itanagar on February 8, reaffirming the State Government's commitment to preserving and promoting Arunachal Pradesh's rich indigenous faith systems, culture and traditions. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the Itanagar Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi Council, the Central Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi Council, and all contributors for translating a long-cherished vision into reality through collective effort and public participation. He noted that more than 700 donors, largely from the Galo community, had contributed to the construction of the centre, calling it a shining example of community-led cultural preservation. "This Gamgi is not just a structure; it represents our roots, our faith and our identity. Your contributions have been meaningfully transformed into a permanent cultural and spiritual institution," the Chief Minister said. Highlighting the age-old lineage of indigenous faith systems, Khandu said that indigenous belief systems have existed for thousands of years and form the original spiritual foundation of tribal societies not only in Arunachal Pradesh but across the world. He observed that while modernisation and social change have reduced the number of followers globally, there is now a renewed international movement to revive and protect indigenous faiths, cultures and traditions. Khandu emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh is home to diverse indigenous belief systems, each deeply embedded in the identity of its respective community. To safeguard these traditions, he said, the State Government had established the Department of Indigenous Affairs, which is working to support faith-based cultural infrastructure such as Kargu Gamgi, Nyedar Namlo, Ganggi and other indigenous prayer and cultural centres across tribes. "Our faith, culture, language and traditions are inseparable. If we lose our roots, we lose our identity," he said, adding that preservation of indigenous faith should never be misconstrued as opposition to any other religion. "India is a secular country, and every individual is free to practise any religion. Protecting our indigenous faith is about safeguarding who we are, not opposing anyone else," he said. Khandu also recalled key initiatives taken by the government to strengthen indigenous identity, including the official gazette notification declaring 31st December as Donyi Polo Day, approval of the Nimin Aalo celebration to honour women, and naming the State's first greenfield airport as Donyi Polo Airport. The Chief Minister highlighted the evolution of the organised Kargu Gamgi prayer system, which took a structured form in the early 2000s, giving collective expression to an ancient indigenous faith. He said the Gamgi institution symbolises collective prayer, healing, peace, and well-being, and has steadily grown into a unifying force for believers in the Capital Region and beyond. He particularly appreciated the inclusive and reformative nature of the Kargu Gamgi movement, where common people actively participate in prayer and spiritual practices, strengthening social harmony, unity and shared moral responsibility within the community. In the context of rapid modernisation and global influences, the Chief Minister observed that indigenous belief systems face increasing challenges, especially among younger generations. Institutions like the Kargu Gamgi, he said, play a crucial role in preserving, practising and transmitting indigenous faith and values in an organised and meaningful manner. Drawing parallels with the Buddhist education system in the Tawang region, the Chief Minister underlined the importance of integrating indigenous faith systems with formal education to ensure their long-term survival. He announced that the State Government, in collaboration with institutions such as the International Centre for Cultural Studies (ICCS), RIWATCH (Roing) and the Indigenous Faith & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP), is working towards establishing a dedicated university for indigenous studies. The proposed institution will focus on research, documentation, education and curriculum development for indigenous faiths and cultures of Arunachal Pradesh. "This university will ensure that our indigenous knowledge systems are properly documented, researched and passed on to future generations in a structured manner," he said, adding that consultations with senior priests, cultural leaders and scholars would form the foundation of its academic framework. The Chief Minister further shared plans to promote global exchange and learning by facilitating study visits to countries such as Japan, where indigenous practices like Shintoism have been successfully preserved alongside modern development. He also expressed intent to host international conferences in Arunachal Pradesh on indigenous faith and cultural practices. Appealing for harmony and mutual respect, Khandu urged people to refrain from using divisive language on matters of faith. He reiterated that while laws and committees - such as those examining matters related to religious freedom - play an important role, the true preservation of culture lies in everyday practice by individuals and families. Encouraging people to practise indigenous rituals in daily life, he said, even small prayer spaces in homes help strengthen spiritual connection and cultural continuity. "Faith is a way of life. It must be lived, not merely spoken about," he remarked. Assuring continued government support, the Chief Minister said budgetary allocation for the Department of Indigenous Affairs would be enhanced to facilitate the construction and strengthening of indigenous cultural centres across all communities. He further suggested that a state-of-the-art Donyi Polo prayer cum cultural centre may be planned in the state capital, making it one of the must-visit places, and assured government support as and when it materializes. The programme was attended by Ministers P D Sona and Kento Jini, Itanagar Municipal Corporation Mayor Likha Nari, MLAs, senior community leaders, members of the Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi councils, district administration officials, and a large number of devotees and well-wishers. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the newly consecrated Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi would serve as a spiritual, cultural and educational hub for future generations. "May the blessings of Donyi Polo guide us all towards harmony, wisdom and a deeper connection with our roots," he added. - ANI Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed the first installment of seed capital under the CM Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan 2.0 to 10,404 young entrepreneurs in four districts. The scheme aims to support 74,036 entrepreneurs statewide with Rs 2 lakh for general categories and Rs 5 lakh for professionals. The Chief Minister highlighted that the initiative connects beneficiaries with banks and has appointed CM Fellows to provide ongoing support. He reiterated the government's vision to transform youth into job creators, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emphasis on entrepreneurship. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launches CM-AAA 2.0, distributing first installment of seed capital to 10,404 youth in four districts to boost entrepreneurship. Dibrugarh, February 9 Extending the government's helping hands towards youth empowerment, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ceremonially distributed the first tranche of seed capital under Chief Minister Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan 2.0 to 10,404 young entrepreneurs from Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Tinsukia and Charaideo districts at a function held at No.1 Deoghoria Goan Pathar in Dibrugarh on Monday. It may be noted that under the Chief Minister's Atmanirbhar Assam Abhiyan 2.0, the State government has decided to support 74,036 prospective entrepreneurs across the state. Under the general category, each beneficiary will receive Rs 2 lakh. Under the professional category, which includes engineers, MBBS and BDS graduates, and others who have completed professional courses, each beneficiary will receive Rs 5 lakh. Through today's programme, the government disbursed the first instalment to a total of 10,404 beneficiaries, including 3,888 from Dibrugarh district, 1,956 from Sivasagar district, 3,341 from Tinsukia district, and 1,219 from Charaideo district. Of these, 23 beneficiaries belong to the professional category and 10,381 to the general category. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sarma said that CM-AAA 1.0 was launched in September 2023 and under this initiative, 25,277 young entrepreneurs received Rs 50,000 as the first installment, along with a three-day training programme. "After completing the training, they received Rs 24,000 as the second installment. Beneficiaries under Atmanirbhar Assam Abhiyan 1.0 would receive the third installment of Rs 1 lakh in February or in the first week of March this year. In addition to financial assistance from the State government, CM-AAA also connects beneficiaries with banks. As a result, 2,000 beneficiaries from the first phase have already secured bank loans up to Rs 10 lakh," he said. He also informed that three banks in the state have shown interest in providing loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana to 3,000 youths who received assistance under CM-AAA. On the occasion, the Chief Minister urged young entrepreneurs to use the government's financial support responsibly and strengthen their businesses. "Under CM-AAA 2.0, State government will spend a total of Rs 1,482 crore to support 74,036 entrepreneurs, without taking any collateral from beneficiaries. To ensure effective implementation, the government has appointed CM Fellows in every Assembly constituency. These fellows will stay in direct contact with entrepreneurs, track business progress, and provide necessary support to help them succeed," the Chief Minister said. Reiterating the government's focus on making the youth work-oriented, Sarma said that 1.6 lakh youth have already secured government jobs based on merit and transparency. "The government is also working to help talented youths secure jobs in Central government departments. While government employees contribute to state building, that they cannot generate employment for others. In contrast, entrepreneurs not only establish themselves but also create jobs for many others," he said. The Chief Minister, on the occasion, reiterated his goal of transforming the state's youth into employment generators, a vision also emphasised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He expressed confidence that the 10,404 beneficiaries from Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Tinsukia, and Charaideo districts who received financial assistance under CM-AAA 2.0 would become self reliant and create employment for others. Referring to the growing positive environment for entrepreneurship in the state, he said that MSME registrations on the Udyam portal have increased from 9,371 in 2020 to more than 12.75 lakh at present. He also stated that till March 2025, banks have extended more than Rs 30,773 crore in loans to small entrepreneurs. "The proposed large thermal power plant in Dhubri would require a large number of trucks to transport coal from the rail station. Similarly, the Jagiroad semiconductor project, being built at a cost of around Rs 30,000 crore, would create employment for nearly 30,000 people across various categories. This large workforce would generate demand for shops and other small businesses around the project area. In the same way, the Namrup Methanol and Urea project, with an investment of about Rs 12,000 crore, would provide employment to around 2,000 youths after completion and would also create demand for a significant number of vehicles for transportation," the Chief Minister said. He called upon the youth of the state to step forward and take advantage of the direct and indirect employment opportunities created by such industrial growth. He, however, observed that if local youths fail to seize these opportunities, workers from other parts of the country would fill the gap. The Chief Minister also said that the unprecedented growth of entrepreneurship in Assam has improved livelihoods by creating employment across different sectors of society. He mentioned the PepsiCo potato processing unit in Nalbari, the production of ethanol and methanol from bamboo in Assam, and the initiative to produce bio oil from Napier grass in Karbi Anglong. He said these efforts have opened an array of opportunities for the youth of the state. Sarma said that these initiatives strengthened government's commitment to empower youth as job creators and accelerate the state's journey towards self-reliance and inclusive economic growth. Minister of Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises, Bimal Bora, Minister of Cooperation Jogen Mohan, Minister of Power Prasanta Phukan, MP Rameswar Teli, MLAs Taranga Gogoi, Chakradhar Gogoi, Sanjay Kishan, Suren Phukan, and Dharmeswar Konwar, Additional Chief Secretary J B Ekka, and a host of dignitaries were present on the occasion. - ANI We Are China Winter fishing season starts at Ulungur Lake, NW China's Xinjiang People's Daily Online) 10:12, February 09, 2026 A large net full of fish is hauled across the frozen surface of Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Long) During a recent winter fishing festival at Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, fish leapt from the frozen lake surface, delighting tourists. The first fish caught was a wild common carp, said Zhang Haijiang, a veteran fisherman. "I'm taking this first fish to the display area, decorating it with a big red ribbon, and wishing for a bountiful winter fishing season," he said. Unlike in previous years, the first fish caught this season wasn't auctioned. Instead, it was gifted to a nursing home, symbolizing good luck, health and shared warmth. Vendor Yang Tingzhong was in high spirits. "We can sell nearly 100 grilled fish a day," he said. "Tourists can't get enough of the fresh taste!" The annual winter fishing festival at the lake has become a major boost to local incomes. Ulungur Lake, one of China's 10 largest inland freshwater lakes, supports abundant fish stocks, producing over 8,000 tonnes of fish annually. Veteran fisherman Zhang Haijiang holds a wild common carp at Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Long) Fishermen haul in nets at Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Long) Fishermen gather their catch at Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Long) Fishermen hold freshly caught fish at Ulungur Lake in Fuhai county, Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Long) (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya chaired a major review meeting on the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 in colleges and secondary institutions of Lower Assam. He emphasized that colleges must evolve into multidisciplinary hubs for skills and innovation to support national development goals. The Governor stressed the importance of teacher development, digital technology, and integrating student well-being through sports and counselling into the academic core. The meeting, attended by vice-chancellors from 13 universities and representatives from over 400 colleges, also discussed strategies for sustainable revenue generation in educational institutions. Assam Governor Lakshman Acharya chairs review of NEP 2020 in Lower Assam colleges, emphasizing multidisciplinary institutions and teacher development. Guwahati, February 9 Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday chaired a review meeting on the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 in the institutions of secondary education and colleges affiliated to the universities of Lower Assam. The meeting, held at Gauhati University, was organised by Lok Bhavan, Assam. Speaking at the meeting, the Governor said that NEP 2020 is a transformative and learner-centric policy designed to prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century while remaining rooted in Indian values. Reviewing the progress of NEP 2020 in colleges affiliated to universities, the Governor said colleges must evolve into multidisciplinary institutions and hubs for skills, research, and innovation to support the national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat. He emphasised the importance of four-year undergraduate programmes, multiple entry-exit options, the Academic Bank of Credits, skill-based curricula, industry linkages, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. Emphasising that teachers are the backbone of the education system, the Governor called for continuous professional development, the adoption of innovative teaching practices, and the effective use of digital technology to enhance teachers' capacity. The Governor also reiterated the need for teachers to motivate the students' physical and mental well-being through safe infrastructure, nutrition, sports, yoga, and counselling services, and stressed that co-curricular activities such as NCC, Scouts and Guides should be made the core of the academic narrative for nurturing discipline, leadership, and a spirit of service among students. The Governor also asked all stakeholders, especially teachers, administrators, and parents, to work in close coordination to ensure the effective and meaningful implementation of NEP 2020, which can help nurture empowered, skilled, and responsible citizens capable of contributing to nation-building. OSD to the Governor, Prof Bechan Lal, shared his observation at the meeting: revenue generation in educational institutions should be pursued through a structured, diversified approach rather than relying solely on government funding. Strategic use of public-private partnerships, industrial and academic linkages, research projects, and alumni contributions can create sustainable financial streams, he opined. Establishing dedicated development cells within institutions can further strengthen resource mobilisation, while industry-aligned skill courses and CSR-supported initiatives ensure that revenue generation remains closely integrated with academic relevance, employability, and institutional growth. It should be noted that Vice Chancellors and representatives from 13 universities and more than 400 colleges across 25 districts attended the meeting. Vice Chancellor, Gauhati University, Prof Nani Gopal Mahanta, OSD to the Governor Prof Bechan Lal, Commissioner and Secretary, Higher Education Department, Assam, Narayan Kunwar, Director Secondary Education Mamata Hojai, Director SCERT Niroda Devi, Registrar Gauhati University, Utpal Sharma; Vice Chancellors, Principals of colleges, educationists, along with a host of other senior officers were also present the meeting. - ANI Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the first instalment of the Chief Minister's Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan 2.0, disbursing seed capital to over 10,000 beneficiaries in four districts. The scheme aims to support 74,036 entrepreneurs with a total outlay of Rs 1,482 crore, offering Rs 2-5 lakh without collateral. Sarma highlighted the success of the first phase, which benefited 25,000 youths and facilitated bank linkages for loans. He also cited a massive rise in MSME registrations and major industrial projects as drivers for employment and Assam's journey toward self-reliance. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma disburses seed capital to 10,404 beneficiaries, aiming to create job generators under the CM-AAA 2.0 scheme. Dibrugarh, Feb 9 Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that along with providing government jobs, his administration has created a new generation of entrepreneurs, asserting that entrepreneurship has become a key pillar of youth empowerment and economic growth in the state. Launching the first instalment under the Chief Minister's Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan 2.0 (CM-AAA 2.0) in Dibrugarh today, the Chief Minister disbursed seed capital to 10,404 beneficiaries from Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Tinsukia and Charaideo districts at a function in Dibrugarh. Sarma said the state government's sustained efforts to promote entrepreneurship have opened new opportunities for Assam's youth. "While government jobs contribute to state-building, entrepreneurs create employment for many others. Our goal is to transform youths into job generators," he said. Under CM-AAA 2.0, the state government aims to support 74,036 prospective entrepreneurs across Assam with a total outlay of Rs 1,482 crore. Beneficiaries under the general category will receive Rs 2 lakh, while those under the professional category, including engineers and medical graduates, will receive Rs 5 lakh, without any collateral. The Chief Minister said that the earlier CM-AAA 1.0, launched in September 2023, benefited over 25,000 youths, many of whom have already progressed to advanced stages of business. He added that beneficiaries under the first phase would receive the third instalment of Rs 1 lakh by February or early March this year. Sarma said CM-AAA also facilitates bank linkages, enabling nearly 2,000 beneficiaries to secure loans of up to Rs 10 lakh, while banks have shown interest in extending Mudra loans to thousands more. Referring to Assam's improving entrepreneurial ecosystem, he said MSME registrations on the Udyam portal have risen sharply from 9,371 in 2020 to over 12.75 lakh at present. He added that banks have extended more than Rs 30,773 crore in loans to small entrepreneurs till March 2025. The Chief Minister also pointed to large industrial projects such as the Jagiroad semiconductor unit, the Dhubri thermal power plant, and the Namrup Methanol and Urea project, stating that these would create massive direct and indirect employment opportunities. Sarma urged local youth to seize these opportunities, saying that entrepreneurship-driven growth has strengthened livelihoods and accelerated Assam's journey towards self-reliance. - IANS Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas reviewed the Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme, directing officials to ensure timely completion with full digital and study facilities. Each centre will feature an e-library, workstations, internet, and materials for competitive exams and critical thinking. The scheme, announced by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, is being implemented in phases, with over 240 centres already constructed. The Kendras aim to act as hubs for digital empowerment and accessing government services, with proposed 'Atal Mentors' to assist operations. Rajasthan govt reviews Atal Gyan Kendra scheme, equipping rural centres with digital workstations, e-libraries, and exam resources for youth. Jaipur, Feb 9 Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas chaired a review meeting of the Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme at the Secretariat in Jaipur on Monday, government officials said. He directed that Atal Gyan Kendras being established at the gram panchayat level should be developed as robust centres for quality education, digital literacy, and preparation for competitive examinations, especially for rural youth. The Chief Secretary emphasised that all prescribed infrastructure, digital facilities, and study resources must be made available at the centres within stipulated timelines, and that regular monitoring of the implementation work should be ensured. He also instructed that the progress of both ongoing and completed works at the targeted gram panchayat headquarters under the first phase of the scheme should be continuously reviewed, and all pending works completed on priority. He said that the Kendras should function in a manner that enables students from rural and remote areas to benefit from modern study facilities. During the meeting, Joga Ram, Principal Secretary and Commissioner, Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Department, told that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being equipped with an e-library, current affairs magazines, books for competitive examinations, materials to promote logical and critical thinking, literature related to the freedom movement, multilingual newspapers, and e-Mitra services. He also told that Atal Gyan Kendras are being established in a phased manner at every gram panchayat headquarters. In the first phase, 2,056 gram panchayat headquarters with a population of more than 3,000 have been included. Financial approval has been issued for 1,687 Atal Gyan Kendras, of which work is underway at 508 centres, while construction of 243 centres has been completed. Joga Ram also said that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being provided with a building measuring around 3620 feet, a minimum of four digital workstations, internet connectivity, furniture, and study facilities for at least 20 students. These centres are also being developed as activity hubs for training and other developmental activities, he added. He said that there is a proposal to deploy Atal Mentors for the operation of the Kendras. Their primary responsibilities will include digital empowerment of rural citizens, promotion of e-governance services, and assisting people in availing benefits of various government schemes. The Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme was announced by the Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on 'Good Governance Day' on December 25, 2024, and has also been included in the State Budget 2025-26. Officials of the Panchayati Raj Department were also present at the meeting. - IANS The historic Bhavnath Mahadev Fair in Junagadh has been officially accorded the status of a 'Mini Kumbh' for the first time, significantly elevating its spiritual significance. Extensive preparations are complete, including a vehicle-free zone, special bus services, and arrangements for water, sanitation, and community kitchens to serve lakhs of attendees. A series of cultural programs from February 11-14 will feature performances by artists like Maithili Thakur and Suresh Wadekar, alongside a first-ever Dhamru Yatra of sadhus. The fair, spanning 3.5 kilometres, is expected to draw around 1.5 million devotees and will conclude on Mahashivratri night with a holy dip at Mrugi Kund. Gujarat's historic Bhavnath Mahadev Fair gains 'Mini Kumbh' status. See the cultural programs, artist line-up, and arrangements for 1.5 million devotees. Junagadh Februar, y 9 Preparations for the historic Bhavnath Mahadev Fair ahead of Mahashivratri are in their final stages in Junagadh, Gujarat, with the annual religious gathering being accorded the status of a 'Mini Kumbh' this year, significantly enhancing its spiritual importance. Gujarat Minister and Junagadh in-charge Kaushik Vekariya, along with Pradyumn Baja, reviewed the arrangements alongside administrative officials and saints, and inspected the on-ground preparations in the Bhavnath area. Religious leaders welcomed the decision, noting that the declaration reflects the growing scale and significance of the fair. Head of Shri Panchdashnam Aahvan Akhada, Bhardwaj Giri, said that while the Mahashivratri fair has been held annually for decades, this is the first time it has been officially recognised as a Mini Kumbh, with special arrangements being made by the government.To ensure smooth conduct, the Bhavnath area will remain vehicle-free from February 11 to 15, and special bus services have been arranged for officials and staff. The fair area spans nearly 3.5 kilometres and has already drawn strong public interest. District Magistrate Anil Kumar Ranavasiya said that a series of cultural programmes will be organised from February 11 to 14, featuring several renowned artists. He also highlighted that, for the first time, a Dhamru Yatra will be held, with sadhus from across Gujarat arriving on February 11. The yatra will proceed from the District Panchayat parking area to the Bhavnath Temple. Renowned artists Maithili Thakur and Suresh Wadekar are set to perform devotional music during the event.Extensive arrangements have been made for drinking water, sanitation, lighting, and crowd management, while community kitchens will serve meals to lakhs of devotees. Saints from across the country have already arrived for spiritual practices. Authorities estimate that around 1.5 million devotees will attend the Mini Kumbh, which will conclude on Mahashivratri night with the traditional royal holy dip at Mrugi Kund at midnight. - ANI BJP corporator Manjusha Nagpure was elected unopposed as the Mayor of Pune after candidates from the NCP and Congress withdrew their nominations at the last moment. The withdrawals followed an appeal by BJP leader Ganesh Bidkar to avoid a contest as a mark of respect for recently deceased leaders Ajit Pawar and Suresh Kalmadi. Republican Party of India (Athawale) leader Parshuram Wadekar was also elected unopposed as the Deputy Mayor. Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol expressed confidence in BJP's victory, citing development works and highlighting the party's allocation of tickets to 92 women candidates. BJP corporator Manjusha Nagpure elected Pune Mayor unopposed as NCP & Congress withdraw. Parshuram Wadekar becomes Deputy Mayor. Pune, February 9 BJP corporator Manjusha Nagpure was elected unopposed as the mayor of Pune after candidates from the NCP and Congress withdrew their nominations at the very last moment of the mayoral post contest. Following an appeal by BJP's Group Leader in PMC Ganesh Bidkar to ensure a peaceful election, Sheetal Sawant of the NCP and Ashwini Landge of the Congress pulled out of the contest. Bidkar urged political parties to avoid a contest as a mark of respect for the late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar and former Union Minister and Pune MP Suresh Kalmadi, who passed away recently. A total of three nominations had been filed for the mayoral post before the withdrawals. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the single-largest party in the recently concluded PMC election after a 4-year gap. Republican Party of India (Athawale) Leader Parshuram Wadekar, was elected as Deputy Mayor of Pune unopposed. Earlier, Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol expressed confidence that the BharatiyaJanata Party (BJP) will once again secure the Mayor's post in the Pune Municipal Corporation Election, citing extensive development works carried out in the city under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at theCentre, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led NDA government in Maharashtra. Murlidhar Mohol noted previously that, while 83 seats were mandated for women candidates under 50 per cent reservation norms, the BJP has allotted tickets to 92 women candidates, underscoring its commitment to women's representation. Asked about seat-sharing, Mohol said the BJP is ready to allot 16 seats to Shiv Sena in Pune. "Despite the BJP having 105 corporators in the previous term, we have consistently worked towards an alliance. Differences over seat-sharing existed at the local level, but the matter is now being resolved under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde," he said earlier. - ANI The Bharatiya Janata Party organized a grand felicitation ceremony at Patna's Bapu Auditorium to honor its newly appointed national president, Nitin Nabin. In his address, Nabin reflected on his nearly two-decade political journey, which began in 2006 following his father's death. He expressed gratitude to senior leaders like Radha Mohan Singh and Rajnath Singh for their guidance and pledged to work tirelessly to strengthen the trust placed in him, particularly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nabin emphasized that politics is a long journey, advising young workers against shortcuts and highlighting the party's foundational ideals from leaders like Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Deendayal Upadhyaya, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. BJP holds grand ceremony in Patna for new national president Nitin Nabin, who vows to strengthen trust and work for PM Modi's vision. Patna, Feb 9 The Bharatiya Janata Party organised a grand felicitation ceremony at Bapu Auditorium in Patna on Sunday to honour its newly appointed national president, Nitin Nabin. Party workers accorded him a rousing welcome, waving saffron scarves as he arrived at the venue. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, with the song "Modi-Nitish ki jodi..." playing in the background as leaders welcomed him from the stage. Addressing the gathering, Nitin Nabin said that political parties that revolve only around individuals and dynasties cannot secure a bright future for Bihar or the country. Recalling his political journey, Nabin said it has been nearly 20 years since he entered politics in 2006, following the death of his father. He shared that it was the then Bihar BJP president Radha Mohan Singh who first encouraged him to contest elections, and that he received guidance and blessings from the then national president Rajnath Singh, along with the support of the entire party organisation. Expressing gratitude, Nitin Nabin said he was thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially from the land of Bihar, and assured that he would work relentlessly to strengthen the trust placed in him. He described the visit as his first visit to Patna after becoming the BJP national president. The BJP chief also thanked the people of Bihar for repeatedly giving him the opportunity to serve as a Member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly. Recalling his long association with the party's youth wing, Nabin said he always advised young workers not to take shortcuts in politics. "Politics is not a short-term race; it is a long journey. If we want to realise Prime Minister Modi's vision and build the India of his dreams, then every one of us must work sincerely and tirelessly in our own time," he said. Highlighting the BJP's ideological foundation, Nitin Nabin said Shyama Prasad Mukherjee laid the foundation of nationalism, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya introduced the philosophy of Antyodaya-upliftment of the poorest-and Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave the mantra of good governance. He added that today's BJP governments are guided by the combined ideals of these three great leaders, and are committed to inclusive development, nationalism, and transparent governance. - IANS BJP State President Rajeev Chandrasekhar has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman requesting that Kerala be excluded from a central advisory on discontinuing the Minimum Support Price bonus for paddy and wheat. He argues that Kerala, with its long-term decline in paddy production and unique agricultural framework, should not be grouped with surplus-producing states. Chandrasekhar states that paddy farmers in the state have faced neglect and increased indebtedness due to inadequate support. He has requested a separate consideration for Kerala based on its specific food security and ecological concerns. BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar writes to Nirmala Sitharaman, requesting Kerala be excluded from the Centre's advisory on discontinuing MSP bonus for paddy. Thiruvananthapuram, February 9 BJP State President Rajeev Chandrasekhar has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman requesting that Kerala be excluded from the Centre's advisory on discontinuing Minimum Support Price bonus for paddy and wheat. In his letter, Chandrasekhar referred to a communication issued by the Department of Expenditure on Monday, which asked States, including Kerala, to review and consider discontinuing the announcement of MSP bonus for paddy and wheat in view of surplus stocks, fiscal burden and sustainability concerns. Chandrasekhar said that including Kerala with surplus-producing states may not accurately reflect the State's actual situation. He argued that Kerala has experienced a steady, long-term decline in paddy acreage and production and is not a surplus-producing State contributing to excess central stocks. The BJP leader said paddy farmers in Kerala have been neglected for years, particularly in areas such as production costs, procurement mechanisms and marketing support. He added that the State government has failed to provide timely and adequate financial support to farmers, forcing many to depend on private moneylenders, leading to increased indebtedness and financial stress. He also pointed out that Kerala has not announced any additional bonus over and above MSP for paddy or wheat in the manner followed by certain surplus-producing States. According to him, paddy procurement in Kerala operates under a distinct framework shaped by unique agro-climatic conditions, small landholdings and the objective of sustaining cultivation mainly for food security rather than surplus generation. Chandrasekhar said issues such as surplus production, excess central stocks and groundwater depletion mentioned in the Centre's communication are technically and substantially inapplicable to Kerala's agricultural conditions. He requested that Kerala be excluded from the reference to discontinuation of MSP bonus and that its case be considered separately, keeping in view its specific agricultural, ecological and food security concerns. - ANI Brad Pitt is returning to his Oscar-winning role as stuntman Cliff Booth in a new Netflix film, "The Adventures of Cliff Booth." The project reunites Pitt with director David Fincher for the first time since 2008's "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." A surprise teaser for the film was unveiled during Super Bowl LX, though it has not yet been released online. The film follows Booth's life after the events of "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and features a supporting cast including Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Elizabeth Debicki. Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth in a new Netflix film directed by David Fincher, teased during the Super Bowl. See the cast and details. Los Angeles, February 9 Brad Pitt is set to reprise his Oscar-winning role in the highly anticipated followup to 2019's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'. Netflix unveiled a surprise teaser trailer for 'The Adventures of Cliff Booth' during Super Bowl LX on Sunday. The official teaser has yet to be released online, according to People. The film sees Pitt, 62, returning as stunt performer Cliff Booth, the character he portrayed alongside Leonardo DiCaprio's Rick Dalton in Quentin Tarantino's 2019 hit. The upcoming movie is directed by David Fincher, known for The Social Network and Gone Girl, marking a reunion with Pitt for the first time since The Curious Case of Benjamin Button in 2008. The duo had previously collaborated on Se7en and Fight Club. Reports of Pitt and Fincher's collaboration first surfaced in April 2025. In July, the actor was photographed on set wearing a long blond wig, a mustache, a yellow floral shirt, and jeans, as per People. 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' explored Booth and Dalton's lives in 1969 Hollywood, imagining an alternate history where the characters inadvertently prevent Sharon Tate's murder. Pitt won the Best Supporting Actor award at the 2020 Oscars for his performance, while the movie also secured Best Production Design. Deadline previously reported that 'The Adventures of Cliff Booth' follows the character as a "Hollywood studio fixer" after the events of the original film. The cast also includes Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Elizabeth Debicki, Scott Caan, Carla Gugino, JB Taken, and Corey Fogelmanis, according to People. The Adventures of Cliff Booth will be released soon on Netflix. - ANI Iran's Ambassador to India emphasized that the Chabahar Port is a key symbol of bilateral cooperation and a crucial hub for regional connectivity. The project, initiated by India in 2003, provides an alternative trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. A new long-term agreement was recently signed to solidify India's operational role at the port's Shahid Beheshti terminal. The port has already been utilized for significant shipments, including humanitarian wheat aid to Afghanistan. Iranian envoy calls Chabahar Port a symbol of India-Iran partnership, vital for regional connectivity and development, as both nations reaffirm ties. New Delhi, February 9 Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Monday stated that the Chabahar Port project stands as a symbol of the strong partnership between India and Iran and plays a vital role in promoting common development and regional connectivity. Speaking at a reception on the occasion of the Iranian National Day hosted by the Iranian Embassy in India, Ambassador Fathali said that relations between India and Iran are deeply rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation. He noted that the port reflects the spirit of cooperation between the two countries and contributes significantly to regional connectivity. "Relations between Iran and India are rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation and based on common culture," the envoy said. "This rich heritage is a valuable asset for expanding bilateral cooperation. The Chabahar Port project, as a symbol of the cooperation between our two countries, plays an important role in the common development and regional connectivity," he added. Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, represented India as the Chief Guest at the reception, during which he conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. "Secretary (West) Sibi George represented India as the Chief Guest at the Iranian National Day reception hosted by @Iran_in_India. He conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to bilateral ties," the MEA stated in a post on X. India proposed developing the Chabahar Port in 2003 to provide an alternative route for Indian goods to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia via road and rail connectivity under the International North-South Transport Corridor, bypassing Pakistan. The progress on the project had slowed earlier due to US sanctions on Iran linked to its suspected nuclear programme. To operationalise India's role at the port, a long-term agreement was signed between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and the Port & Maritime Organisation of Iran. The agreement replaces the initial 2016 pact covering India's role at the Shahid Beheshti terminal in Chabahar Port, which had been extended annually. In recent years, Chabahar has been utilised for key consignments, including the shipment of 20,000 tonnes of wheat assistance to Afghanistan in 2023. In 2021, the port was also used to send environmentally friendly pesticides to Iran. - ANI Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has mandated that all construction and preparatory work for the Kumbh Mela 2027 in Haridwar be completed by October. He instructed officials to ensure no files are pending and to appoint dedicated technical officers immediately. Preparations include auditing bridges, beautifying ghats like Har Ki Pauri, and implementing comprehensive security, sanitation, and crowd management plans. The CM emphasized inclusive coordination with religious groups and creating a devotee-friendly experience reflecting Uttarakhand's spiritual heritage. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami orders all Kumbh Mela 2027 preparations in Haridwar to be finalized by October for a grand, seamless event. Dehradun, Feb 9 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has set a firm deadline for completing all preparations for the Kumbh Mela 2027 in Haridwar, emphasising that every aspect must be finalised by October to ensure a grand and seamless event. In a high-level review meeting held at the "Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Auditorium" in the Secretariat on Monday, the Chief Minister issued strict instructions to officials directing them to finish all construction works related to the Mela within the given timeline while maintaining the highest standards of quality. He made it clear that no file or project concerning the Kumbh Mela should remain pending at any government level and warned that accountability would be enforced for any delays. Dhami stressed that the state government's top priority is to organise a magnificent, successful and devotee-friendly Kumbh Mela reflecting the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand. He directed the Secretary of the Public Works Department to appoint dedicated technical officers for the event within the next 24 hours. All bridges in the Mela area must undergo thorough audits, while ghats, including the iconic Har Ki Pauri, should be beautified, reconstructed and equipped with proper bathing facilities for millions of pilgrims. A comprehensive action plan for sanitation was called for, with adequate toilets and drinking water available at key locations. Security arrangements will include sufficient deployment of forces, water police drones, CCTV cameras and other advanced equipment. Separate detailed strategies will address law and order, parking and crowd management to handle the massive influx of devotees safely. The Chief Minister instructed the timely allocation of land to various akhadas, religious sects and monasteries with the Mela officer personally overseeing the process. Coordination with saints, organisations, committees, and local communities will incorporate their suggestions to make preparations inclusive. A large-scale anti-encroachment drive will clear pathways, ensuring smooth movement during the event. He emphasised the swift resolution of forest-related permissions and better coordination with neighbouring states. All development works should be visible on the ground, not just on paper. Arrangements for accommodation, tent cities, temporary hospitals, ambulances and mobile medical teams must be completed promptly. Dhami described the Kumbh Mela as a profound religious and cultural gathering for millions of devotees and affirmed that it is everyone's responsibility to ensure participants leave with positive, memorable experiences. - IANS Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated Tata Motors' new automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam, Ranipet. The facility represents a massive investment of Rs 9,000 crore and is projected to create direct employment for approximately 5,000 individuals. The event, attended by state ministers and officials, marks a significant reinforcement of Tamil Nadu's position as a leading automotive manufacturing hub in India. The plant is expected to spur further industrial activity and economic development across the Ranipet region. CM M.K. Stalin inaugurates Tata Motors' new Rs 9,000 crore car plant in Ranipet, expected to generate 5,000 direct jobs and boost Tamil Nadu's auto sector. Chennai, Feb 9 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will inaugurate Tata Motors' newly established automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam, Ranipet district, on Monday, marking a major milestone in the state's industrial and employment growth. According to an official press release issued by the Ranipet district administration, the project involves an investment of Rs 9,000 crore and is expected to generate direct employment for nearly 5,000 people. The foundation stone for the facility was laid by the Chief Minister on September 28, 2024, on behalf of the State's Department of Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce. With preliminary works now completed, the plant is ready for operations. CM Stalin will formally open the factory and flag off the production of the first vehicle from the assembly line. The event is being seen as a significant boost to Tamil Nadu's automobile manufacturing sector, reinforcing the state's position as one of India's leading automotive hubs. Handlooms and Textiles Minister R. Gandhi, Industries Minister Dr T.R.B. Rajaa, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and senior officials are expected to attend the function. The ministers have been closely monitoring the arrangements ahead of the launch. Extensive security measures have been put in place for the Chief Minister's visit. The district police department announced that around 1,500 police personnel will be deployed under the supervision of Ranipet Superintendent of Police Ayman Jamal to ensure smooth proceedings and public safety. Minister R. Gandhi personally inspected the venue at the SIPCOT complex in Panapakkam, reviewing the stage arrangements for the Chief Minister, security protocols, the factory tour route, and the designated area where the first car will be unveiled. Officials said all preparations, including logistics and visitor management, have been completed. The Tata Motors plant is expected to strengthen industrial activity in Ranipet and neighbouring districts, while creating both direct and indirect job opportunities. The project aligns with the state government's broader strategy to attract large-scale investments and enhance manufacturing capacity. With the launch of the Panapakkam facility, Tamil Nadu takes another step forward in expanding its industrial footprint and fostering economic development across the region. - IANS Students from Coimbatore participated in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' program, where they discussed exam stress and technology. PM Modi emphasized that discipline is more crucial than inspiration alone and advised against becoming slaves to devices like mobile phones. He encouraged using Artificial Intelligence as a learning tool and teacher. The students expressed overwhelming gratitude, with one noting the interaction felt personal, like speaking with a family member. Coimbatore students describe interacting with PM Modi as like talking to a family member during Pariksha Pe Charcha, discussing discipline, AI, and stress. Coimbatore, Feb 9 During his unique annual program, 'Pariksha Pe Charcha', Prime Minister Narendra Modi explained the significance of inspiration and discipline to students, as well as ways to leverage new technology for learning. The Prime Minister advised the students to take discipline and inspiration hand in hand to grow, and also advised them not to become slaves to technology. The students, from Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore, expressed their gratitude to the Prime Minister for interacting with them and providing them with great insights. "When a person is stressed, what is more important -- motivation or discipline?" Ananya Tolia asked. "Both are important," the Prime Minister replied. "If there is no discipline, then no matter how much motivated or inspired you are, it will not result in anything. Suppose a farmer is getting inspired by other farmers and their techniques; however, if he procrastinates, nothing will happen. There was inspiration but no discipline," he explained. "Discipline is the key, inspiration only adds to it," PM Modi said, adding that if there is only inspiration and no discipline, then it becomes a "burden" and "leaves a feeling of hopelessness". After interacting with the Prime Minister on the issue, Toila said, "This question was stuck with me for ages. Now, finally, I feel great and honoured to get clarity from a person whom I have looked up to." Another student asked the Prime Minister about the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today's time. "With the rise of AI, should we fear it? Also, how can we use new technologies to build our future careers?" Aadhi Vikram asked PM Modi. "In every era, whenever a new technology comes, it becomes a topic of discussion. This happens in every generation. We should not fear anything; we should not fear technology. We should make a resolute stance that we will not be slaves to it (technology); we are the ones who make decisions in our lives. However, some kids have become slaves to mobiles; if they don't get one, they do not eat. Some have become slaves to TV," the Prime Minister explained. He further stated that AI could be used to learn new things. "Technology is a great teacher, embrace it," he added. Students expressed their happiness after their interaction with the Prime Minister. "It was a really great experience. I am overwhelmed," Sweta Banthia S. said. S. Kaviyasri said, "It felt like interacting with a family member, rather than a Prime Minister." PM Modi mentioned that apart from the studies, the students from Coimbatore are interested in startups, technology and AI, calling it "Yuva Bharat ki Yuva Soch (Young thinking of young India)." "This will drive and give a boost to the pace of achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047," he added. - IANS Pakistan's ISI is actively scouting for and recruiting disgruntled elements from the Afghan Taliban into the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit. The new strategy aims to infiltrate these fighters directly from Afghanistan into India, as traditional launchpads in PoK have become ineffective due to heightened Indian security. This move comes amid immense pressure on Pakistan from groups like JeM and LeT, and from China to bring the Taliban on board for the CPEC project. Indian security forces have drastically reduced the number of Pakistani-origin terrorists in Kashmir from 600 in 2019 to just 50 currently. Pakistan's ISI is recruiting disgruntled Afghan Taliban fighters into Jaish-e-Mohammed to infiltrate Kashmir as desperation grows over failed operations. New Delhi, Feb 9 After ties with the Afghan Taliban soured, Pakistan has been hunting for disgruntled elements and recruiting them into the Jaish-e-Mohammed. Indian agencies have learnt that the ISI has been scouting for disgruntled elements from the Afghan Taliban and other breakaway factions. The idea is to recruit such persons and take them into the Jaish-e-Mohammed. An official said that the strategy was to get these persons to infiltrate India directly from Afghanistan. Moreover, the ISI also seeks to break the Afghan Taliban, with which it is having immense problems currently. The new strategy has been devised because the terrorists waiting at the launchpads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are finding it impossible to infiltrate into India. Security is at an all-time high following the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. Another official said that this strategy has been used in the past. Many who had fought against the Soviet forces in the 1980s were directed into Kashmir after the end of fighting. After the Soviets withdrew in 1989, scores of Afghan fighters were sent to Kashmir to wage a battle against India. According to Intelligence agencies, this time the push would be much harder as the desperation is growing. There are hardly 50 terrorists of Pakistani origin who remain in Kashmir. This is not a good enough number to carry out a sustained attack. Moreover, the security forces have launched a massive operation aimed at hunting down the remaining terrorists. The security forces have been able to achieve a lot of success, and the number of terrorists of Pakistani origin has fallen to 50 from the 600 there were in 2019. These developments have set the alarm bells ringing within the ISI circles. Both the ISI and Pakistan Army are under immense pressure from outfits such as the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba over infiltrations. They are asking why the army is unable to facilitate the infiltrations. They too realise that if they want to survive, they have to battle harder in Kashmir and with the infiltration falling to nearly nil, they will not be able to achieve their goal. An Intelligence Bureau official said that there are currently at least 1,500 terrorists waiting at the launchpads in PoK. Every attempt to infiltrate that has been made since the Indian armed forces carried out Operation Sindoor has failed. Among the 50 terrorists who remain in Jammu and Kashmir, it has been learnt that many of them had fought in Afghanistan against the NATO forces. Many veterans from Afghanistan have been recruited into the Jaish-e-Mohammed, and they have been sent into the Valley, an official said. During the recent encounter that led to the elimination of Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, it was found that two of them had fought in Afghanistan before being recruited into the outfit and then sent into Kashmir. The ISI is also looking to drive a wedge within the Afghan Taliban in a bid to make it weaker. Pakistan has not been able to get around with the Taliban, and this has led to a lot of frustration. Both sides are constantly in battle with each other, and it is the Pakistan security forces who have been facing losses. Getting the Taliban on board or weakening it is a major priority for Pakistan at this moment. On one hand, it wants to stop the fighting, and on the other, there is the Chinese pressure, another official said. The Chinese are insistent that Afghanistan is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Project 2.0. Cash-strapped Pakistan is desperate for this project to take place. The Chinese have told the Pakistanis to bring the Afghan Taliban on board at any cost if the project has to go through. This has led to immense pressure in Islamabad, and hence it feels the need to weaken the Taliban and then get them on board, the official added. - IANS External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended a reception hosted by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor in New Delhi. This interaction follows the recent conclusion of a framework for an India-US interim trade agreement. The framework involves India reducing tariffs on US industrial and agricultural goods, while the US will impose an 18% reciprocal tariff on certain Indian imports. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement initially launched by former leaders. EAM Jaishankar attends reception by US Ambassador Gor, days after the two nations announced a framework for a reciprocal interim trade agreement. New Delhi, February 9 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday attended a reception hosted by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the envoy's residence in the national capital. EAM Jaishankar's interaction with Ambassador Gor comes days after the conclusion of the framework of the India-US interim trade agreement last week, underscoring the shared interests and continued partnership between the two countries. The United States and India announced a framework for an Interim Agreement on reciprocal, mutually beneficial trade, reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) launched by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. As part of the framework, India has agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US agricultural and food products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. On the other hand, the United States will impose a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on goods originating in India, including textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, plastic and rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal goods and certain machinery. Subject to the successful conclusion of the Interim Agreement, the US has said it will later remove reciprocal tariffs on select items, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts. Gor presented his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu during an official ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 14, formally becoming the 27th United States Ambassador to India. Last month, EAM Jaishankar met US Ambassador Gor and expressed confidence that under the US Envoy, India-US ties would be further strengthened. In a post on X, he said, "Pleased to meet @USAmbIndia Sergio Gor today in New Delhi. Our conversation covered the many dimensions of our partnership. Welcomed him and expressed confidence that he would contribute to the strengthening of India - US relations." - ANI External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi, appreciating his support for India's Vision MAHASAGAR for regional prosperity and security. President Herminie's state visit, his first since taking office, coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. His itinerary included sectoral engagements in Chennai and Mumbai focusing on healthcare, maritime trade, and sustainable development. The visit culminates with meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss regional issues. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie meets EAM Jaishankar & PM Modi in Delhi to advance Vision MAHASAGAR and mark 50 years of bilateral ties. New Delhi, February 9 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called upon Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and appreciated the President's support to vision MAHASAGAR. In a post on X, he said that the President would meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day and expressed confidence for the engagements to open up new avenues for cooperation between New Delhi and Victoria. "Delighted to call on President Dr. Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing #VisionMAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM @narendramodi later today will open new vistas for our cooperation", he said. President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. His visit, which will continue until February 10, is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. According to a post on X by the Ministry of External Affairs, during his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, Herminie met key stakeholders across sectors, including governance, industry, coastal management, and health, to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. MEA underscored Seychelles' strategic importance to India, describing the island nation as a key maritime neighbour and a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to cooperation with the Global South. "Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," the post added. During his stay in New Delhi, President Herminie is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties as well as exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. In Chennai, Herminie, along with Seychelles Minister of Health Marvin Nolan Fanny, met with Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in the island nation through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the Seychelles President met with Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities. The engagement in Mumbai aimed at strengthening ties with India and Seychelles, with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development. - ANI The Africa Regional Hindi Conference was inaugurated in Cairo by Secretary Neena Malhotra, bringing together scholars from seven African countries and Egypt. The conference, themed "Hindi for Cultural Contact and Cooperation from the Ganges to the Nile," aims to promote the language as a bridge for cultural connectivity. Organized by the Indian Embassy in partnership with Ain Shams University, it highlights Hindi's role in strengthening people-to-people ties and the strategic partnership between India and Egypt. The event provides a platform for dialogue on Hindi's global relevance in international relations and cultural diplomacy. Neena Malhotra inaugurates African Hindi Conference in Cairo, uniting scholars from 7 nations to promote language as a bridge for cultural cooperation. Cairo, February 9 Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Neena Malhotra, inaugurated the Africa Regional Hindi Conference in Cairo on Sunday, bringing together scholars from seven African countries and Egypt to celebrate Hindi as a bridge of cultural connection, an official statement said. The spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, in a post on X, "Secretary (South) Ms. Neena Malhotra inaugurated the African Regional Hindi Conference in Cairo, which brought together scholars from seven African countries and Egypt to celebrate Hindi as a bridge of cultural connection." The conference highlights Hindi's growing global relevance and its contribution to strengthening people-to-people ties, reflecting the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the idea of the world as one family. In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Egypt said, "The Africa Regional Hindi Conference was inaugurated in Cairo on 8 Feb 2026 by Secretary (South) Ms. Neena Malhotra with Ambassador @AmbSKReddy, in partnership with Ain Shams University. Scholars from 7 African nations joined Egyptian academics to celebrate Hindi as a bridge of cultural connectivity and cooperation - true to the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." According to the official press release, the "Africa Regional Hindi Conference" is being organised in Cairo from 8-9 February 2026 by the Embassy of India, Cairo. The theme of the conference is "Hindi for Cultural Contact and Cooperation from the Ganges to the Nile". Reputed Hindi scholars, academics, writers, teachers, and Hindi enthusiasts from Africa and other countries are participating in this conference. This conference is being organised in collaboration with Ain Shams University in Cairo. The objective of the conference is to promote the Hindi language globally and to strengthen cultural and educational cooperation among the participating countries. The conference was inaugurated in the dignified presence of Neena Malhotra, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India; Suresh K Reddy, Ambassador of India; and Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University. Distinguished guests, diplomats, professors, and representatives of major educational institutions were present on this occasion. This conference is supposed to provide an important platform for dialogue and deliberation on the increasing global relevance of Hindi. Hindi, which is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, is not only a medium of communication but also a carrier of India's rich cultural heritage, values, literature, and philosophy. The objective of the Regional Hindi Conference is to further strengthen these efforts by promoting cooperation among scholars and institutions involved in Hindi studies. According to the release, selecting a city as historically and culturally important as Cairo underscores the deep civilizational ties between India and Egypt. Both countries have ancient cultural traditions, and strong diplomatic relations have continued into the modern era, including their leadership roles in the Non-Aligned Movement. Today, India and Egypt maintain a strategic partnership, with cooperation steadily expanding across trade, defence, education, culture, and tourism. The Hindi language provides a distinct dimension to this enduring friendship by deepening mutual understanding and cultural exchange, the release said. During the two-day conference, participants will deliberate on several contemporary and relevant topics, including the role of Hindi in strengthening cultural contact, Hindi in international relations and cultural diplomacy, and the influence of Indian cinema. The Maulana Azad Indian Cultural Centre (MACIC), Cairo, plays a significant institutional role in promoting and disseminating Hindi and Indian culture. The centre regularly organises Hindi language classes, academic workshops, competitions, and cultural programmes, which attract enthusiastic participation from Egyptian students and fans of India. Over the past 20 years, more than 2,500 students have enrolled in Hindi courses, and more than 2,000 have successfully completed the basic Hindi program. The Africa Regional Hindi Conference is expected to make a significant contribution to the promotion and prosperity of the Hindi language and, through it, further strengthen India's cultural relations with Egypt and other countries, as well as boost people-to-people contact across various sectors, the release said. - ANI Ethan Hawke revealed on Jimmy Fallon's show that he and Billy Crudup were frequent competitors for roles as young actors. He humorously lamented passing on a Tom Stoppard play, a role that then went to Crudup and helped launch his successful stage career. The two actors later became friends and co-starred in a Stoppard trilogy, both earning Tony nominations. Hawke, who recently received his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, reflected on this early rivalry with fondness and jest. Ethan Hawke shares a funny rivalry-turned-friendship story with Billy Crudup, revealing the one play role he regrets passing up. Los Angeles, Feb 9 Hollywood actor Ethan Hawke has said that, as a young actor, he was often facing off against a now-friend for roles, Billy Crudup. The actor recently attended the episode of 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon'. The 55-year-old actor shared that Crudup "happens to be a friend of mine, but not at first", reports 'People' magazine. He said, "Because we used to go up, we used to audition for everything (together). And you know when you're a kid, you think you're against everybody, right? You don't understand that there's room for everybody to find themselves, to do their thing". He further mentioned, "So I would see him at every audition. I'd often have to be outside the room, and listen to him do the scene before me. And he was so good. It was so irritating. In fact, I was offered a play once, I think he knows this, and I had to say no to it, because I was doing a movie". "It was a Tom Stoppard play. And they gave him the part, and then his career blew up. And sometimes, I just want to go back in time, take the part, to stop his career", he added. As per 'People', Billy Crudup starred in the 1995 Broadway debut of Stoppard's play Arcadia as Septimus Hodge, later returning to the play's 2011 revival as a different character, Bernard Nightingale. Billy Crudup and Hawke starred alongside one another in the 2006 Stoppard trilogy of plays,The Coast of Utopia. Both actors were nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for their roles and Crudup ultimately won the award. Ehtan Hawke recently earned his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role as lyricist Lorenz Hart in the 2025 Richard Linklater film Blue Moon. Hawke was previously nominated for Oscars in other categories, including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor. - IANS Several districts in Tamil Nadu are forecast to experience moderate morning fog until February 12, potentially impacting road travel with reduced visibility. The state will simultaneously see predominantly dry weather with no significant rainfall expected until at least February 14. Daytime temperatures are predicted to rise gradually by 1-2 degrees Celsius, leading to warmer afternoons. Health officials advise residents to stay hydrated and take precautions during peak heat. Several TN districts face moderate morning fog until Feb 12, affecting travel. Dry weather and rising daytime temperatures to continue, says Met Dept. Chennai, Feb 9 Several districts across Tamil Nadu are likely to wake up to moderate morning fog over the next few days, with reduced visibility expected during early hours, even as the state continues to experience predominantly dry weather and a gradual rise in temperatures, the Regional Meteorological Centre said. According to the latest forecast, misty and foggy conditions will prevail in many northern and western districts until February 12. Areas including Ranipet, Vellore, Tirupattur, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Erode, Dindigul, and the Nilgiris are expected to witness moderate fog during the early morning hours, potentially affecting road travel and daily commuting. Motorists, particularly those using highways and ghat roads, have been advised to drive cautiously due to reduced visibility. Chennai and its neighbouring districts -- Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram -- are also likely to experience light to moderate mist during the morning. In the capital city, the sky is expected to remain partly cloudy, with one or two places reporting mild fog at dawn. Despite the foggy mornings, the overall weather pattern across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal will remain largely dry until February 14th. The Meteorological Department has ruled out any significant rainfall activity during this period, indicating stable atmospheric conditions across the region. Meanwhile, daytime temperatures are forecast to climb gradually. Maximum temperatures in some parts of the state may increase by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius by February 12th, leading to warmer afternoons. Weather experts noted that such fluctuations are typical in this time of year, when clear skies during the day contribute to rising heat while cooler nights create fog formation in the early hours. Health officials have advised residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours. The elderly, children, and those working outdoors have been urged to take extra precautions. With dry conditions set to persist and fog expected in several districts, residents can expect misty mornings followed by warm and clear days across Tamil Nadu in the coming week. - IANS Former CPI leader and ex-MLC's son, Pushkar Anand, has formally joined the Janata Dal (United) in Patna. He praised Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's reforms in the education sector and called for youth to support the government's vision. JD(U) state president Umesh Kushwaha attributed the party's growing appeal to Nitish Kumar's two-decade-long work. This move follows the recent launch of a state scheme providing financial aid to women entrepreneurs to foster self-reliance. Former CPI leader Pushkar Anand joins JD(U) in Bihar, commending CM Nitish Kumar's education reforms and women's empowerment schemes. Patna, February 9 Former Communist Party of India leader and ex-MLC Kedar Pandey's son, Pushkar Anand, joined the Janata Dal on Sunday in Patna, in the presence of the party's state president, Umesh Kushwaha. Speaking to ANI, Anand praised the Chief Minister's education initiatives and emphasised the role of youth in supporting the government's vision. "The reforms the Chief Minister has implemented in the education sector are commendable. Young people need to come forward and further the Chief Minister's vision. My endeavour will be to utilise the position he has given me to advance his efforts in the best interest of the state," Pushkar Anand said. Umesh Kushwaha highlighted the enduring impact of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership. "The work that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has done over the past 20 years is the reason why today everyone wants to join our party. In that same vein, Pushkar Anand has joined the party," he told ANI. Earlier on January 29, in a significant boost to women's empowerment, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced on Thursday that the state government has begun providing additional financial aid of up to Rs 2 lakh to eligible women entrepreneurs under the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, aimed at fostering self-reliance among one woman per household. In a post on X, CM Nitish Kumar shared a comprehensive update on the flagship scheme. "All of you know that we have launched the 'Mukhya Mantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana' to empower and make the women of the state self-reliant. The main objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to the women of the state for self-employment, so that one woman from each family can establish herself as an entrepreneur," CM said. The launch of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana will feature a statewide program across multiple administrative levels in the State district, block, cluster, and village, with over 1 crore women witnessing the programme. - ANI India and Seychelles have adopted a comprehensive Joint Vision and announced a $175 million Special Economic Package to support the island nation's development. The announcements came during Seychelles President Patrick Herminie's State Visit to India, which marks 50 years of Seychelles' independence and diplomatic relations. The package and signed MoUs will bolster cooperation in public housing, infrastructure, digital transformation, maritime security, and healthcare. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration in capacity building, renewable energy, and addressing common maritime challenges. India announces $175M Special Economic Package for Seychelles, adopts Joint Vision on sustainability & security, marking 50 years of diplomatic ties. New Delhi, February 9 India and Seychelles on Monday adopted a comprehensive Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages, underscoring the Indian Ocean island nation's role as a key pillar in India's MAHASAGAR vision, even as New Delhi announced a USD 175 million Special Economic Package to support Seychelles' development needs. The outcomes were announced during Seychelles President Patrick Herminie's State Visit to India, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which holds special significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Addressing the media following PM Modi and the Seychelles President's bilateral and joint press conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Seychelles is an important maritime neighbour for India and a long-standing partner. "We have contributed to the development of Seychelles through a mix of small and large development projects, capacity-building and training initiatives. As maritime neighbours, we address common challenges such as piracy, drug trafficking, weapons and human trafficking," the foreign secretary said. Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie held comprehensive talks on Monday to review the full range of bilateral relations. The Prime Minister also hosted a lunch in honour of the visiting leader, who was later called on by President Droupadi Murmu. A state banquet was held in his honour, as President Herminie is also scheduled to visit Agra on Tuesday. As part of the development partnership, India announced a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million, comprising USD 125 million in a Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance. The package will support projects in public housing, infrastructure, mobility, capacity building, maritime security and other priority sectors. As part of the visit, seven MoUs were signed, including on pharmacopoeial cooperation in the health sector; technical and scientific collaboration between meteorological authorities; a Cultural Exchange Programme for 2026-2030; cooperation on population-scale digital solutions for digital transformation; ocean observation, maritime scientific research and data sharing; capacity-building training programmes for Seychelles civil servants; and procurement of food items. Several major announcements were also made during the visit. India also announced the refit of patrol ship PS Zoraster for the Seychelles Coast Guard on a gratis basis, the gifting of 10 ambulances, the provision of 1,000 metric tonnes of grains and lentils under the economic package, the gifting of 10 utility vehicles and five Laser Radial class boats with spares to the Seychelles Defence Force, and the establishment of a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit with Indian assistance. Health and essential commodities featured prominently in the discussions. India agreed to support Seychelles through affordable access to quality medicines, cooperation in public health, training programmes in mental health, and assistance for the construction of a new hospital. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expand cooperation in capacity building and human resource development through programmes such as ITEC, customised training for civil servants, and institutional linkages in sectors ranging from cybersecurity and finance to marine sciences and climate change. Recognising India's rapid digitalisation as a force for good in the Global South, both leaders agreed to work closely together to build Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Seychelles. India will support the digitisation of governance, including digital payments and financial inclusion systems, tailored to Seychelles' national requirements. The two sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation in financial governance, cybersecurity, financial intelligence, and institutional capacity building, while facilitating the deployment of Indian experts to support reforms in finance, auditing, taxation, and public administration. On renewable energy and climate action, both sides agreed to deepen cooperation on clean energy, climate resilience and multi-hazard early warning systems. India will also provide technical assistance to Seychelles to manage its power grid and transition to green mobility. Trade, investment and tourism were also identified as priority areas, with both leaders encouraging Indian businesses to explore opportunities in Seychelles, including in affordable housing, digital technology, AI, tourism, fisheries and the blue economy. They also agreed to explore enhanced air connectivity to boost tourism flows. Maritime security and defence cooperation emerged as a central pillar of the partnership. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a free, open, safe and secure Indian Ocean Region and agreed to strengthen cooperation in maritime surveillance, hydrography, capacity building and defence training. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's continued support to Seychelles in meeting its maritime security and defence requirements under the MAHASAGAR vision. Seychelles will also establish a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit with Indian assistance, and both sides agreed to step up joint efforts against piracy, narcotics trafficking and other transnational crimes. At the regional and multilateral level, Prime Minister Modi welcomed Seychelles' decision to become a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, while President Herminie reaffirmed support for India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council. "Prime Minister Modi welcomed the decision of Seychelles to become a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC). He also expressed his gratitude to President Herminie for Seychelles' support to India for various candidacies to regional and international bodies. President Herminie reaffirmed Seychelles' support for India's permanent membership at the UN Security Council," the Joint Vision read released by the MEA. Concluding the visit, both leaders expressed confidence that the decisions taken would elevate the India-Seychelles partnership and deliver tangible benefits to the people of both countries. President Herminie thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm hospitality and invited him to undertake an official visit to Seychelles at a mutually convenient time. President Herminie, during the joint press conference earlier today, invited PM Modi to serve as the Guest of Honour for the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence Day. President Herminie also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025, and it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. - ANI The Ministry of Steel has signed Memoranda of Understanding with 55 companies for 85 specialty steel projects, involving a total investment of 11,887 crore. These projects are expected to add 8.7 million tonnes of capacity by 2030-31, targeting high-end segments like electrical and stainless steel. The initiative is part of the Production-Linked Incentive Scheme 1.2, launched by Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, to build a resilient and globally competitive steel ecosystem. The scheme aims to promote domestic production, conserve foreign exchange, and integrate Indian manufacturers into global value chains for strategic sectors. Government signs MoUs for 85 specialty steel projects with 11,887 crore investment, aiming to add 8.7 million tonnes capacity by 2030-31. New Delhi, Feb 9 The Ministry of Steel on Monday signed Memoranda of Understanding with 55 companies for 85 projects, involving an investment of Rs 11,887 crore. These projects are expected to add 8.7 million tonnes of speciality steel capacity by 2030-2031, significantly expanding India's capabilities in high-end steel segments such as electrical steel, alloy and stainless steels, coated products, and grades required for strategic sectors. The MOUs were signed at Vigyan Bhavan here under the third round of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 1.2 for Specialty Steel, which was launched by Minister of Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy. Addressing the gathering after the MoU signing ceremony, Kumaraswamy underscored that PLI 1.2 is a decisive step towards building a resilient and globally competitive speciality steel ecosystem, fully aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Union Minister noted that the scheme advances the twin national priorities of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic capacity creation in advanced and strategic steel products. The third round of the PLI Scheme has been launched in response to strong industry demand and the need for sustained capacity expansion in speciality steel, which is essential to sectors such as automobiles, railways, defence, electrical equipment, and aerospace. With incentive rates ranging from 4 per cent to 15 per cent over a five-year period, the scheme is designed to promote investment, technology upgradation, and value addition while integrating Indian manufacturers into global value chains. Speaking on the broader impact of the scheme, the Minister highlighted that "PLI 1.2 seeks to address the structural gap by incentivising domestic production, conserving foreign exchange, and positioning India as a reliable global supplier of advanced steel". Union Minister added in that "The achievements under earlier rounds of the PLI Scheme further reinforce the policy's effectiveness. Across PLI 1.0 and 1.1, committed investments of Rs 43,874 crore have already translated into substantial on-ground progress, including significant capacity creation and employment generation. PLI 1.2 builds on this momentum, deepening the domestic steel ecosystem and strengthening the entire value chain." Kumaraswamy called upon participating companies to implement their projects in a time-bound manner and maximise the use of indigenous technologies and inputs. He reiterated the Government's commitment to facilitation and timely resolution of operational issues, emphasising that the success of PLI 1.2 will play a pivotal role in India's journey towards becoming a global hub for speciality steel manufacturing. - IANS Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel met a delegation from Sri Lanka's ruling Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), led by General Secretary Tilvin Silva, in Gandhinagar. The discussions focused on bolstering bilateral relations and exploring cooperation in specific sectors where Gujarat's policy frameworks could be beneficial. The Sri Lankan delegation expressed appreciation for India's consistent support and showed keen interest in learning from Gujarat's development model, particularly in areas like the cooperative sector exemplified by Amul. Chief Minister Patel invited Sri Lanka to participate as a partner country in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027 to further investment and collaboration prospects. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel meets Sri Lanka's JVP delegation led by Tilvin Silva to strengthen India-Sri Lanka ties and explore sectoral partnerships. Gandhinagar, Feb 9 A delegation of Sri Lanka's ruling party, the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, led by its General Secretary Tilvin Silva, held discussions with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday, focusing on strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations and exploring avenues for sector-specific cooperation. Welcoming the delegation in Gandhinagar, Patel said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, relations between India and Sri Lanka had become more robust. "India and Sri Lanka share deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, and this meeting will be fruitful in giving further momentum to these long-standing relations," the Chief Minister said. Highlighting Gujarat's governance model, Patel described the state as a policy-driven one and said Sri Lanka could benefit from Gujarat's sectoral policies in areas of mutual interest. "Through mutual coordination, Sri Lanka can take advantage of Gujarat's policy frameworks in sectors it is keen to partner in," he said. The discussions also touched upon tourism cooperation, including measures to encourage more visitors from Gujarat to travel to Sri Lanka. JVP General Secretary Silva said his visit to Gujarat and India was his first and expressed appreciation for the state's progress. Referring to India as the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Prime Minister Modi, he said he was "emotionally moved" by the visit and impressed by Gujarat's development trajectory. The JVP General Secretary thanked the Central and State governments for providing the sacred relics of Lord Buddha for an exhibition organised in Colombo. He also acknowledged India's support to Sri Lanka during times of need. "India has always stood by Sri Lanka, including through assistance in infrastructure development when the country required support," Silva added. He expressed interest in strengthening industrial cooperation between Gujarat and Sri Lanka and referred to his visit to Amul as an example of a successful cooperative enterprise. Silva said Sri Lanka was keen to learn from Gujarat's expertise through "knowledge sharing and know-how" across sectors, including the cooperative sector. Inviting Sri Lanka to participate as a partner country in the Vibrant Summit-2027, Patel said, "The platform would provide an opportunity to explore investment and collaboration prospects." He also shared details of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences (VGRC) initiative, aimed at showcasing Gujarat's regional industrial capabilities globally in line with the Prime Minister's vision. - IANS The Gujarat government has signed a cooperation agreement with SpaceX's Starlink to enhance digital infrastructure across the state. The initiative aims to provide high-speed satellite internet to remote, tribal, and underserved regions, including areas like Narmada and Dahod. The connectivity plan will support Common Service Centres, schools, Primary Health Centres, and disaster management systems. A Joint Working Group will be formed to oversee the implementation of these digital services. Gujarat govt & Starlink sign LoI to provide satellite internet for remote regions, health centres, schools & disaster management under Digital India. Gandhinagar, Feb 9 The Gujarat government, on Monday, signed a Letter of Intent for mutual cooperation with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, a subsidiary of SpaceX, marking a significant step towards strengthening digital connectivity across remote and underserved regions of the state. The LoI was exchanged at a ceremony in Gandhinagar in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. The initiative is said to be aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Digital India' vision and his emphasis on robust digital governance as a foundation for achieving the goal of 'Viksit Bharat @2047'. The agreement follows a preliminary meeting held in December 2025 between the Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister and Starlink Operations SpaceX Vice- President Lauren Dreyer. Under the proposed pilot initiatives, satellite-based high-speed internet connectivity will be introduced in areas facing limited telecom infrastructure, including remote, border and tribal regions. According to the state government, the pilot phase will focus on connecting Common Service Centres and e-governance facilities to ensure faster and more accessible delivery of government services. Particular attention will be given to tribal belts and Aspirational Districts such as Narmada and Dahod, where reliable digital connectivity is expected to strengthen administrative outreach and service delivery. The LoI also provides for smart connectivity for Primary Health Centres, government schools and statewide tele-medicine centres, aimed at improving access to healthcare and education services. District disaster management control rooms, wildlife sanctuaries, port facilities and coastal areas are also proposed to be brought under the connectivity plan to enhance coordination, monitoring and response capabilities. In addition, the cooperation framework includes capacity-building initiatives, with joint training programmes planned for government agencies, government schools and disaster management teams to enable effective use of the digital infrastructure. Connectivity strengthening for Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation industrial parks, highway safety systems, maritime and port operations, and coastal police units has also been outlined in the agreement. To ensure effective implementation, a Joint Working Group comprising representatives of the state government and Starlink will be constituted to oversee planning and execution of the initiatives. The LoI was exchanged by Industries Commissioner P. Swaroop on behalf of the state government and Prabhakar Jayakumar, Head of Starlink India, representing the company. Chief Minister Patel expressed confidence that the collaboration would prove to be a milestone in expanding digital services across the state and would further accelerate the progress of e-governance. - IANS The Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly's Budget Session will commence on February 16 with the Governor's address. Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania has called for all political parties to unite on the critical issue of the discontinued Revenue Deficit Grant, calling it a matter of state interest. He emphasized the need for Himachal to receive a fair share of revenue from its substantial power generation resources, which currently sees a disproportionate amount going to the Centre. The session's duration will be determined by the volume of government business, with initial sittings scheduled for February 17 and 18. Himachal Assembly Speaker calls for political unity on Revenue Deficit Grant issue as Budget Session begins February 16. Details on Governor's address and fiscal health debate. Shimla, February 9 Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Monday announced that the Budget Session will commence on February 16, urging all political parties and legislators to rise above differences and unite on issues vital to the state, particularly following the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant. Speaking to ANI, Pathania said the Governor's address on February 16 would mark the formal beginning of the Assembly's proceedings for the financial year 2026-27, in line with constitutional practice. "As you know, whenever a new financial year begins, the first session of the Assembly starts with the Governor addressing the House, just as the President addresses Parliament. On February 16, the Hon'ble Governor will deliver the address," he said. The Speaker said that Assembly sittings for February 17 and 18 have been scheduled, with further sittings contingent on the volume of legislative business brought by the state government. "At present, business for two days has been finalised. Depending on legislative requirements, the session may extend to three, five or even fewer sittings," he said. Pathania informed that the Assembly portal has been opened, enabling MLAs to submit questions and notices, both oral and written. "All MLAs have been informed. They can now send their notices and questions through the portal. Based on submissions received, the business will be listed as per the Rules of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha," he added. Referring to the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant following the 16th Finance Commission's recommendations, the Speaker termed the issue "extremely serious" and directly linked it to the interests of Himachal Pradesh as a hill state. "This is not a Congress issue or a BJP issue. It is an issue of Himachal Pradesh," Pathania said. He noted that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, after Cabinet deliberations, had invited all legislators, political parties, central leaders, including BJP MP Jagat Prakash Nadda, the Leader of the Opposition, MPs, employee organisations and retired employees to deliberate on the matter "in the interest of the state." "Whether one belongs to Congress or BJP, whether one is a minister, MLA, MP or Leader of the Opposition -- we all are representatives sent by the people of Himachal Pradesh. On matters related to the state's interest, policy must be uniform," Pathania said. The Speaker said the Chief Minister's emphasis on resource mobilisation was crucial for improving the fiscal health of Himachal Pradesh, noting that the state possesses abundant natural resources, particularly in the power sector. "Himachal has rivers, water and an excellent climate. Around 14,000 megawatts of electricity are generated here. This is a huge resource," he said. He stressed that while power projects are harnessed through public-sector units, a disproportionate share of revenue goes to the Centre, and Himachal Pradesh must receive its fair share. "If the Revenue Deficit Grant is not restored, then the revenue generated from our resources that goes to the Centre must be shared proportionately. Even if the Centre keeps 60 per cent, Himachal should get at least 40 per cent," Pathania said. Pathania said the issue was likely to be raised and discussed in the Assembly, with the government attempting to build consensus across party lines. "I want the Assembly to speak in one voice. All elected representatives and organisations should be united. This is the time to take a firm decision," he said. He pointed out that despite Himachal Pradesh having a per capita income of nearly Rs 2 lakh, among the highest in the country, the state faces a revenue deficit due to non-sharing of proportional resource revenue. Highlighting the state's difficult terrain, tribal areas, connectivity challenges and higher administrative costs, Pathania said sustained financial support or equitable revenue sharing was essential. "Cooperative federalism means sharing resources fairly. Our four MPs have a responsibility to raise Himachal's concerns at the national level," he said. The Speaker said the government would continue to inform the public through presentations and discussions about the financial impact of RDG withdrawal and the steps being taken. "The Assembly is the appropriate forum to debate issues that affect every citizen of Himachal Pradesh and to frame policies, rules and laws accordingly," he added. - ANI The Himachal Pradesh government has enacted a significant administrative reshuffle, transferring and posting several senior officers across key departments. IPS officer Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi has been appointed as Managing Director of MILKFED, while IAS officer Abhishek Jain will take on the additional role of Secretary for Technical Education. The reshuffle also includes multiple postings for HP Administrative Service officers, with some appointments and one cancellation issued with immediate effect. These changes affect pivotal positions in finance, education, and public sector undertakings across the state. Himachal Pradesh transfers key IAS, IPS & HPAS officers, including postings for Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, Abhishek Jain, and Sandeep Kumar. Details inside. Shimla, February 9 The Himachal Pradesh government on Monday ordered a series of transfers and postings involving IPS, IAS and HP Administrative Service officers. According to notifications issued by the Department of Personnel, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, IPS (HP:2012) has been posted as Managing Director, MILKFED, Himachal Pradesh, after his services were placed at the disposal of the department. He replaces Rajesh Sharma, IFS (HP:2000), who was holding additional charge of the post while serving as State Project Director, Samagra Shiksha. In another order, the Governor directed that Abhishek Jain, IAS (HP:2002) will hold the additional charge of Secretary (Technical Education) to the Government of Himachal Pradesh. He is currently serving as Advisor (Regulatory Reforms) to the state government in New Delhi and also holds multiple key portfolios including Secretary (Finance, Planning, Economics & Statistics) and 20-Point Programme & JSV. Meanwhile, Sandeep Kumar, IAS (2010), presently Settlement Officer, Kangra Division, has been appointed Divisional Commissioner, Kangra Division, headquartered at Dharamshala. The state government has also issued transfer and posting orders for HP Administrative Service officers.Jas Pal, HPAS (2024), Sub Divisional Officer (Civil), Shillai in Sirmaur district, has been given additional charge of SDO (Civil), Kafota.Jagdeep Singh, HPAS (2025), currently awaiting posting, has been directed to report to the Department of Personnel for further posting.Om Prakash, HPAS (2025) has been posted as Joint Director, Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba. In a related decision, the government cancelled the posting order of Raman Gharsangi, HPAS (2017) as Additional Director at the same medical college, which had been issued on January 27, 2026. Separately, Naresh Kumar Verma, HPAS (2014) has been transferred from his position as Additional Director, Technical Education, Sundernagar (Mandi) and posted as Executive Director, HRTC, Shimla. He replaces Dr Bhuvan Sharma, HPAS (2018), who was holding additional charge as Joint Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Shimla. All the orders have been issued with immediate effect, and the officers concerned have been directed to assume charge accordingly. - ANI Rajendra Savarkar, grandson of Veer Savarkar, has called for the government to officially recognise the title 'Swatantraveer' for his grandfather. He compared this to the official recognition of the title 'Mahatma' for Mahatma Gandhi during the British era. While agreeing with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat that conferring the Bharat Ratna on Savarkar would raise the award's prestige, he stated his family has never and will never demand it. Bhagwat had earlier stated that honouring Savarkar would increase the dignity of the Bharat Ratna award itself. Rajendra Savarkar urges government to recognise title 'Swatantraveer' for his grandfather, drawing parallel to Gandhi's 'Mahatma' title. Nashik, February 9 Grandson of Veer Savarkar, Rajendra Savarkar has called for the Central government to recognise the title of 'Swatantraveer' for his grandfather, saying that it would be akin to the title of 'Mahatma' given to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. "If the government wants to honour Savarkar ji, it would be more appropriate to officially recognise the title of 'swatantraveer'. Just as the title of 'Mahatma' given to Mahatma Gandhi was officially recognised during the British era through a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Central Provinces," Rajendra Savarkar told ANI on Sunday from Nashik, the birthplace of his grandfather. While Savarkar's grandson agreed with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat that giving Bharat Ratna to the ideologue will raise the award's prestige itself, he said that his family has never demanded the award nor will they ever. "Our family has never demanded the Bharat Ratna for Savarkar ji, nor will we ever do so in the future. But we do believe that the title of 'swatantraveer' bestowed upon him by the public is the highest honour," he told ANI. "I completely agree with Mohan Bhagwat, if Veer Savarkar is given a Bharat Ratna then this will enhance its (award's) prestige. Savarkar does not need any award to enhance his dignity. Savarkar's contribution to the nation is invaluable, and honouring him is a matter connected to the sentiments of the country," he added. RSS Chief Bhagwat had on Sunday addressed questions over the delay in conferring the Bharat Ratna to Savakar while addressing the two-day lecture series on '100 Years Of Sangh Journey - New Horizons' in Mumbai. He had said, "I'm not on that committee, but if I meet someone who is, I'll ask them. If Swatantra Veer Savarkar is given Bharat Ratna, the prestige of Bharat Ratna will increase. Even without that prestige, he has become the emperor of millions of hearts." - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to fund projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, and security. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. PM Modi emphasized that the package is based on Seychelles' priorities and will generate employment and skill development, especially for the youth. The leaders highlighted the deep people-to-people ties and shared vision, with Seychelles being integral to India's maritime security vision. PM Modi announces a $175 million special economic package for Seychelles covering housing, health, defence, and more, marking 50 years of ties. New Delhi, February 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. He made the announcement during the joint press meet with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie here in the national capital. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. He underlined that the package would create new employement and skill-training opportunties for the people and especially youth of Seychelles. PM Modi said that the visit by the President comes at an opportune time with India and Seychelles celebrating 50 years of their diplomatic ties. "I am confident that these milestones will inspire us to keep attaining new heights." He said, "India and Seychelles are not just connected through diplomacy; we are connected through the Indian Ocean. Trade between the two countries has grown, cultures have blended, and our relationship has become stronger. India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust and shared vision for the future". "The greatest strength of India-Seychelles relations is our people-to-people ties. The Indian community settled in Seychelles has made a remarkable contribution to the social and economic life of Seychelles. At the same time, they have also strengthened our friendship from generation to generation," the PM added. PM Modi further underlined how as a trustworthy partner and maritime neighbour, "Seychelles is an integral part of India's MAHASAGAR vision. Our cooperation spans across land, water and sea." Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie had earlier paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. - ANI India and Egypt held their 14th round of Foreign Office Consultations in Cairo, co-chaired by senior diplomats from both nations. The discussions reviewed the progress across all pillars of the Strategic Partnership established in 2023, expressing satisfaction with its current momentum. Both sides highlighted the steady expansion of trade and investment, noting bilateral trade and Indian investments each stand at approximately USD 5 billion with potential for growth in sectors like healthcare and green energy. They also agreed to continue close collaboration in multilateral forums and scheduled the next round of consultations to be held in India. India & Egypt hold 14th Foreign Office Consultations in Cairo, review progress of Strategic Partnership, trade, investment & multilateral cooperation. Cairo, February 10 India and Egypt held the 14th round of Foreign Office Consultations in Cairo, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. The FOC was co-chaired by Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South) from the Indian Side and Ambassador Amr Hamza, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, from the Egyptian side. The two sides expressed satisfaction at the momentum in India-Egypt ties since its elevation to Strategic Partnership in 2023. They noted the impetus provided by the inaugural India-Egypt Strategic Dialogue co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister and the Foreign Minister of Egypt in New Delhi in October 2025. The discussions reviewed the progress of the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2023 across various pillars of engagement. They welcomed the continued high-level political exchanges and reaffirmed the shared commitment to further deepen the bilateral relationship across all identified pillars of engagement, as per the statement. Both sides discussed the steadily expanding trade and investment linkages between India and Egypt. Noting the current bilateral trade at USD 5 billion, they highlighted the potential for significant expansion, as per the statement. They also welcomed the wide-ranging B2B exchanges between the two sides and noted that Indian investments in Egypt have touched USD 5 billion, with more proposals in the pipeline in healthcare, fertilisers, green energy and hospitality sectors. Highlighting the investment opportunities and the ease of doing business in India, welcomed more Egyptian investments, as per MEA. The discussions underscored the importance of expanding healthcare collaboration, robust B2B engagement and the technology transfer partnerships between Indian companies and Egyptian partners in vaccines and APIs. India welcomed Egypt's participation as a Partner Country in the ongoing Suraj Kund Mela 2026 in Haryana and appreciated the participation of 30,000 Egyptian students at the Glimpses of India Painting Competition, 2025. Both sides underscored the potential for closer cultural and tourism exchanges, the statement said. The two sides exchanged perspectives on important regional and global issues of mutual interest and agreed to continue close collaboration on various multilateral fora, including BRICS, during India's Presidency. Both sides agreed to hold the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in India at a mutually convenient date. - ANI Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Greek counterpart Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias met in New Delhi to bolster bilateral defence ties. The nations signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to strengthen defence industrial cooperation and exchanged a military cooperation plan for 2026. A key outcome is the decision to position a Greek International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram. The ministers discussed regional security, with India thanking Greece for its support on issues like cross-border terrorism and UNSC membership. India and Greece agree to position a Greek liaison officer at IFC-IOR and sign a defence industrial cooperation declaration to deepen strategic ties. New Delhi, February 9 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday held a bilateral meeting with Minister of National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias, in the national capital, during which the two sides agreed to further strengthen defence cooperation, including the positioning of a Greek International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram. During the meeting, India and Greece also signed a Joint Declaration of Intent on strengthening bilateral defence industrial cooperation, which will serve as a starting point for developing a five-year roadmap. The two countries also exchanged the Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for 2026, outlining the scope of military engagements between their armed forces, according to a Ministry of Defence release. Speaking during the interaction, Rajnath Singh said India attaches great importance to its longstanding, time-tested partnership with Greece, which is based on shared values of peace, stability, freedom, and the rule of law. He noted that bilateral relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Greece in 2023, further cemented by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis's visit to India in February 2024. Rajnath Singh thanked the Government of Greece for its consistent support to India on issues of core national interest, including cross-border terrorism and expressed appreciation for Greece's backing of India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council and India's candidature for a non-permanent seat for the 2028-29 term, as well as Greece's strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and its solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism. "You had visited India earlier in your capacity as the Foreign Minister, in March 2022. I am happy to note that you have been interacting with our EAM regularly and share a close friendship with him. I hope that both of us will be able to build up a strong partnership in the defence domain too," Rajnath Singh said. "We look forward to hosting PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in India for the AI Impact Summit later this month. Let me also take this opportunity to thank the Government of Greece for support on issues of core interest to India, including cross-border terrorism. I thank the Govt of Greece for supporting India's permanent membership in the expanded UN Security Council and India's candidature for a non-permanent seat of the UNSC for the term 2028-29. I also thank your government for the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the solidarity extended to India in the fight against cross-border terrorism," he added. The Defence Minister also welcomed the decision to position a Greek International Liaison Officer at IFC-IOR, describing it as an important step to enhance maritime cooperation between the two ancient seafaring nations. He also expressed confidence that the defence partnership would continue to expand in line with India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and Greece's defence reforms under its 'Agenda 2030'. The two Defence Ministers discussed regional and global security issues and acknowledged the growing convergence between India and Greece on maritime security and strategic matters. Both sides reiterated that the India-Greece Strategic Partnership is anchored in mutual respect and shared democratic values. "Delighted to meet the Minister National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias in New Delhi today. India and Greece signed the Joint Declaration of Intent on Strengthening the Bilateral Defence Industrial Cooperation and exchanged the Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for the year 2026. I welcome the announcement of positioning a Greek International Liaison Officer at Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram, to enhance maritime cooperation between both sea faring nations," the defence minister said in a post on X. Earlier in the day, the Greek Defence Minister laid a wreath at the National War Memorial here and paid homage to fallen soldiers. He also inspected a tri-services guard of honour at the Manekshaw Centre, alongside Rajnath Singh. During his visit, the Hellenic delegation is scheduled to visit key defence and industrial establishments in Bengaluru and interact with defence public sector undertakings, industry representatives and start-ups. According to a press release from the Ministry of Defence, the visit reaffirms the strategic partnership between India and the Hellenic Republic and underscores both countries' commitment to deepen defence cooperation and enhance peace and stability in the region. - ANI A new report states India must prioritize trade openness and domestic reforms to unlock long-term competitiveness. Key recommendations include correcting duty structures, streamlining logistics, and fostering assembly-based manufacturing. The analysis comes alongside details of the interim US-India trade agreement, which involves reciprocal tariff concessions. The deal aims to boost Indian exports in labor-intensive sectors while integrating the country deeper into global value chains. A new report outlines priorities like reducing protectionism and expanding FTAs to elevate India's manufacturing and global standing amid the US trade deal. New Delhi, Feb 9 In the backdrop of the interim India-US trade agreement framework, India must prioritise trade openness and reforms to unlock long-term competitiveness, a new report showed on Monday. These priorities are correcting inverted duty structures, streamlining logistics and customs to cut input costs, fostering assembly-based manufacturing for scale and employment and reducing protectionism, expanding FTAs, boosting R&D, and easing land/labour/skills constraints, according to a Systematix report. "This integrated approach, disciplining firms through advanced manufacturing and embedding India deeper into GVCs, can elevate India's manufacturing share and global standing, mitigating the risks of Donald Trump's bargain while unlocking long-term competitiveness," the findings showed. The US-India trade deal grants India tariff relief and deeper market access but binds it to a $500 billion import commitment and an oil ban. The US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement (February 7, 2026) emphasises reciprocal market access, with India committing to eliminate or reduce tariffs on US industrial goods, food, and agricultural products like Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), red sorghum, tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine, and spirits. In return, the US sets an 18 per cent reciprocal tariff on select Indian goods (textiles, apparel, leather, plastics, chemicals, machinery), with plans to remove tariffs on items like generic pharmaceuticals, gems, diamonds, and aircraft parts upon successful Interim implementation. From the US standpoint, this structure aims to balance trade while addressing American concerns over market barriers. "From India's perspective, the deal provides tariff relief, reducing effective US duties on Indian exports to 18 per cent (below competitors' rates), which the Indian Trade Minister has stated will boost labour-intensive sectors and initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat," said the report. It also ensures removal of national-security tariffs on Indian aircraft and parts, plus a preferential quota for automotive parts, supports aviation and manufacturing growth. - IANS India's services-led economic model, centered on technology, finance, and digital infrastructure, demonstrates greater resilience compared to China's manufacturing-heavy approach, which faces vulnerabilities from global trade disruptions. The services sector now accounts for approximately 55% of India's Gross Value Added, with strong growth in IT, professional services, and fintech exports. India's digital public infrastructure, exemplified by the Unified Payments Interface, has revolutionized transactions and fostered financial inclusion, contrasting with China's more closed private ecosystems. While China's manufacturing remains a core export engine, its exposure to protectionism and external demand cycles presents risks that India's adaptable, knowledge-driven services economy is better positioned to navigate in a digital era. Analysis shows India's tech and services-led growth model offers greater resilience against global shocks compared to China's manufacturing-heavy approach. New Delhi, Feb 9 India has emerged as the world's fastest-growing major economy, with robust growth projections indicating that it will outpace several peers in the coming decades, a media report said. India's services-led model, powered by technology, finance, digital infrastructure, and professional services, offers notable resilience compared to China's manufacturing-heavy approach, which faces cyclical vulnerabilities from global trade disruptions and domestic imbalances, according to an article in One World Outlook. The article states that China's manufacturing sector drove much of the country's rise, with its share in GDP hovering around 36-40 per cent in earlier decades before a gradual decline to about 25 per cent in 2025, according to national statistics. This reflects a deliberate shift toward higher-value activities and services (now over 50-57 per cent of GDP), but manufacturing continues as the core engine of exports, employment for over 100 million people, and geopolitical leverage. China's export-oriented factories have weathered challenges like US tariffs through diversification to emerging markets, yielding record trade surpluses in 2025. However, this model exposes vulnerabilities: overcapacity, reliance on external demand, property sector slumps, and weak domestic consumption amplify cyclical risks. Industrial output grew solidly in 2025, but investment in manufacturing slowed sharply in the latter half amid trade uncertainties, the article pointed out. In contrast, India's services sector has solidified as the dominant driver. In 2024-25, services accounted for approximately 55 per cent of GVA (up from around 51 per cent a decade earlier), with subsectors like financial, real estate, and professional services contributing nearly 23 per cent, and trade, hotels, transport, and communications around 18 per cent. This services tilt stems from India's early investments in human capital, English proficiency, enabling explosive growth in IT and business process outsourcing. The tech industry exemplifies India's edge. India's IT-BPM sector generated substantial export revenues, with software services leading growth at around 13-14 per cent annually in recent years. Services exports surged, doubling pre-pandemic growth rates to 14 per cent in FY23-FY25, making India the world's seventh-largest services exporter (share rising from 2 per cent in 2005 to 4.3 per cent in 2024). Professional consulting and management services grew even faster, at nearly 26 per cent. This export strength provides a stable foreign exchange inflow, cushioning against merchandise trade deficits, the article stated. Finance and fintech further bolster this resilience. India's digital infrastructure, particularly the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has revolutionised transactions. UPI processes billions of transactions monthly, often exceeding 20 billion, with near-zero costs, interoperability, and widespread adoption (over 500 million users). This public-led, open platform contrasts with China's closed ecosystems dominated by private giants like Alipay and WeChat Pay. UPI's growth has fueled fintech innovation, financial inclusion, and low-volatility economic activity, enabling seamless digital commerce and reducing informality. Professional services, including consulting, legal, and advisory, add high-value, tradable components less susceptible to physical supply chain shocks. Unlike manufacturing, which requires massive capital and faces tariff barriers or geopolitical tensions, these services scale via digital delivery, leveraging India's skilled workforce. China's manufacturing model, while powerful for scale and jobs, carries risks: vulnerability to protectionism (e.g., US tariffs), overreliance on investment (leading to imbalances), and slower adaptation to services transitions. India's approach, though employment-absorptive challenges persist (services create fewer mass jobs than manufacturing), offers adaptability in a digital, knowledge-driven era. Looking ahead, India's services dominance positions it well for future growth amid AI, digital transformation, and global demand for tech-enabled solutions. Sustained reforms could further amplify this edge, while China navigates its rebalancing, the article added. - IANS The Indian Navy's sail training ship INS Sudarshini has successfully concluded its first port call in Salalah, Oman, as part of its ten-month Lokayan-26 transoceanic voyage. The visit featured key professional interactions with Royal Navy of Oman officers and was opened to the public, drawing over 600 visitors. The voyage, which began in January from Kochi, will cover over 22,000 nautical miles and visit 18 foreign ports. It aims to promote India's maritime heritage, provide sail training, and strengthen international naval cooperation and goodwill. Indian Navy's INS Sudarshini completes first port call in Oman during its 10-month Lokayan-26 voyage, fostering maritime cooperation and people-to-people ties. New Delhi, February 9 The Indian Navy's sail training ship INS Sudarshini successfully concluded her first port call of the ten-month transoceanic voyage Lokayan-26 at Salalah, Oman, on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in India's maritime outreach and strengthening bilateral naval ties with Oman, the Defence Ministry said. During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini interacted with Captain Mohammad Al Ghailani, Southern Naval Area Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), and Captain Mohammad Al Mahari, Commanding Officer of Royal Navy of Oman Vessel Al Moazer. The interactions highlighted historic seafaring links between India and Oman and reinforced the Bridges of Friendship between the two navies. As part of the professional engagement, the ship also hosted Royal Navy of Oman officers for a guided tour. The press release stated that, in a vibrant display of people-to-people engagement, the sail training ship was open to visitors. More than 600 visitors, including schoolchildren, were provided a firsthand glimpse of the three-masted barque and were familiarised with the nuances of ocean sailing. INS Sudarshini is now proceeding to her next leg of Lokayan 26, carrying forward India's timeless seafaring legacy across the oceans. "With sails set and spirits high, she continues to serve as a symbol of maritime excellence, friendship, and goodwill," the release said. The Indian Navy's sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, on January 20 embarked on a 10-month transoceanic voyage from Naval Base Kochi. Reflecting India's rich maritime heritage and the vision of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" across the oceans, the ship will sail over 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 foreign ports across 13 countries, INS Sudarshini's participation in prestigious international tall-ship events, Escale a Sete, in France, and SAIL 250, in New York, USA. In both events, INS Sudarshini will represent India's proud seafaring legacy and maritime traditions. During the course of the voyage, over 200 Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard trainees will undergo intensive sail training, gaining invaluable experience in long-range ocean navigation and traditional seamanship at sea. The deployment will expose trainees to the nuances of life aboard a tall ship and provide opportunities to interact with trainees from other Navies, fostering professional exchange and building enduring bonds of friendship. The Indian Navy's Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini embarked on the flagship voyage of Lokayan 26, a 10-month transoceanic expedition, on Jan 20. Reflecting India's rich maritime heritage and the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam across the oceans, the ship will sail more than 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 foreign ports in 13 countries, the Ministry of Defence said in a press release. INS Sudarshini will also participate in training interactions and maritime partnership engagements with the Navies of visiting countries, strengthening maritime cooperation and advancing the vision of MAHASAGAR. The voyage stands as a powerful symbol of cultural diplomacy, reaffirming the Indian Navy's commitment to Building Bridges of cooperation and mutual trust across nations. "Through Lokayan 26, she continues to serve as a beacon of India's maritime strength, professionalism, and goodwill on the global stage, " the release said. - ANI ISRO is fast-tracking the development of nearly 80 satellites to support scientific research, national security, and critical communications for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. The agency is concurrently advancing multiple major projects, including a planned Indian space station, reflecting the country's expanding space ambitions. The announcements were made during events commemorating the 50th anniversary of India's first indigenous satellite, Aryabhata, whose success laid the foundation for the modern space program. ISRO is also conducting nationwide student outreach programs to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. ISRO accelerates India's space station plans with 80 new satellites for research, security, and supporting the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Samastipur, Feb 9 India is making rapid progress towards establishing its own space station while simultaneously advancing the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, ISRO Programme Director Imtiyaz Ahmed said on Monday. Work is currently underway on nearly 80 satellites that will play a crucial role in scientific research innovation, disaster management, internal security, navigation, and relaying critical signals for the Gaganyaan mission back to Earth, the senior ISRO official said. Speaking to IANS in Samastipur on the occasion of the golden jubilee of India's first indigenously developed satellite, Aryabhata, Ahmed noted that such missions are central to strengthening India's space-based capabilities and technological self-reliance. He said ISRO is presently engaged in several major projects, including Earth Observation missions, Navigation with Indian Constellation (NVS), the Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS), Gaganyaan and the Venus Orbiter Mission. Together, these initiatives reflect India's expanding footprint in space science, exploration and applied technologies. Recalling the historic launch of Aryabhata on April 19, 1975, Ahmed said the satellite, named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer, represented a landmark moment in India's scientific journey. Despite limited technological resources and infrastructure during the Cold War era, the success of Aryabhata laid the foundation for future space missions and helped ISRO emerge as a globally respected space agency. Its legacy, he said, continues to inspire generations of scientists and engineers. To mark the golden jubilee of Aryabhata, the ISRO has launched a nationwide outreach programme for school students. As part of this initiative, the first programme in Bihar was held on Monday at Holy Mission High School in Samastipur, with students from five different 10+2 schools participating. During the programme, students were introduced to the ISRO's work and future opportunities in the space sector. Scientists also shared their personal experiences, noting that many of them studied in Hindi-medium schools, encouraging students to dream big and aspire to careers in space science and technology. - IANS Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her party's decisive election victory. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party secured a historic two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives, a first in the post-war era. This supermajority grants the LDP the power to pursue constitutional revisions and pass legislation more easily. The landslide win is widely seen as a strong personal mandate for Prime Minister Takaichi's conservative policy agenda. Italian PM Meloni and Canada's PM Carney congratulate Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi after her party's historic two-thirds majority election victory. Tokyo, February 9 Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her victory in the elections for the renewal of Japan's House of Representatives. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, in a post on X, congratulated Takaichi on the "significant success achieved in the elections for the renewal of the House of Representatives of Japan." Highlighting the close relationship between the two countries, Meloni said, "Our Nations are united by a deep friendship and a strategic partnership that continues to grow stronger thanks to the relationship of sincere trust and constructive collaboration that we have been able to build over these years between our Governments." Recalling her January visit to Japan, Meloni said, "I always carry in my eyes and in my heart the extraordinary welcome I received during my visit in January, which further strengthened the bond between our Nations." She added that Italy would "continue with conviction to walk alongside Japan to jointly address global challenges, promote growth, security and stability," and extended her best wishes " for good work to my dear friend Sanae and to the new Japanese Parliament." Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also congratulated Takaichi in a post on X, saying, " Congratulations @takaichi_sanae on your decisive victory in Japan's general election." He added, "I'm looking forward to working with you to further elevate the strong partnership between Canada and Japan, to create more opportunities for both our peoples." Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. - ANI Security forces are conducting intensive search-and-cordon operations in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district as part of the prolonged Operation Trashi-I. On February 4, troops successfully neutralized one terrorist in the Dichhar area, with the operation still in progress. The operation has seen previous contacts in challenging terrain, resulting in the supreme sacrifice of Havildar Gajendra Singh in January. Multiple forces, including the Army, J-K Police, and CRPF, are involved in the joint counter-terrorism hunt. Security forces continue search-and-cordon ops in Kishtwar's Chatroo, neutralize one terrorist in ongoing Operation Trashi-I. Latest updates. Kishtwar, February 9 Security forces are conducting search-and-cordon operations in the Chatroo area in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, as part of Operation Trashi-I, which has been underway for over 20 days now. Troops of 7 Assam Rifles are continuously carrying out intensive searches deep inside the jungles to trace the terrorists believed to be hiding in the area. The security forces launched Operation Trashi-I to hunt down terrorists. On February 4, security forces neutralised one terrorist in the general area of Dichhar, Kishtwar, the Indian Army said. "In the continuing search and elimination of terrorists in the Kishtwar region, where the hunt has already led to several contacts in the dense forests and challenging terrain, contact was re-established with the terrorists on the run in the ongoing joint Operation Trashi-I, by the troops of CIF Delta White Knight Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF at around 5:45 pm today in the general area of Dichhar, Kishtwar," White Knight Corps said in a post on X. "One terrorist has been successfully neutralised. Operation is in progress," the post read. On January 19, army officers paid last tributes to Havildar Gajendra Singh, who laid down his life in the line of duty during a counter-terrorism operation in the Singhpora area of Chatroo in Kishtwar district. Havildar Gajendra Singh, a Special Forces soldier, was killed "while gallantly executing a counter-terror operation" as part of the ongoing Operation Trashi-I on the intervening night of January 18 and 19. In a post on X, the White Knight Corps said, "The #GOC, White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, who made the supreme sacrifice while gallantly executing a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the intervening night of 18-19 Jan 2026." "We honour his indomitable courage, valour and selfless devotion to duty and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this hour of profound grief," the post further read. - ANI Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulations on her party's election victory. Both leaders expressed a commitment to strengthening the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between their nations. They specifically highlighted cooperation in realizing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. The interaction follows a bilateral meeting between the two leaders at the G20 Summit last year where they discussed enhancing cooperation in defense, innovation, and trade. Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi thanks PM Modi for election wishes, both leaders commit to enhancing Special Strategic and Global Partnership and FOIP cooperation. Tokyo, Feb 9 Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his wishes on her election triumph and stated that she is looking forward to working with him to strengthen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between the two nations. "Thank you very much Prime Minister Narendra Modi for your warm congratulations on the House of Representatives election. I look forward to continuing to work together with you to strengthen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between Japan and India and to cooperate in realising a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)," Takaichi posted on X. The Japanese PM's statement came in response to Prime Minister Modi's congratulatory message on X following Takaichi's victory in Japan's House of Representatives election. In his message on Sunday, PM Modi had expressed confidence that he and Takaichi will continue to take the friendship between India and Japan to greater heights. "Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives! Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing global peace, stability and prosperity. I am confident that under your able leadership, we will continue to take the India-Japan friendship to greater heights," PM Modi posted on X. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party secured a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives election held on Sunday. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to cross the two-thirds majority line of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house. The increase in seats from 198 before the polls was apparently made possible by popularity of Takaichi, setting the stage for her to stay in the office as Japan's PM, Japan's Kyodo News reported. In November, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Takaichi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg and discussed ways to add momentum to bilateral cooperation in sectors like innovation, defence, and talent mobility. Describing his meeting with Takaichi "productive", PM Modi noted that a "strong India-Japan" partnership is vital for a better planet. It was the first meeting between PM Modi and Takaichi after the latter assumed office as Japan's PM. "Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan. We discussed ways to add momentum to bilateral cooperation in areas such as innovation, defence, talent mobility and more. We are also looking to enhance trade ties between our nations. A strong India-Japan partnership is vital for a better planet," PM Modi posted on X. Takaichi was elected as Japan's Prime Minister in October last year following a runoff election in the Parliament. She is also the first woman to assume office as Japan's PM. - IANS The Karnataka government has issued new police guidelines to prevent the automatic registration of FIRs and arrests related to social media posts. The circular mandates a preliminary inquiry before registering a case and sets a higher threshold for offences related to speech or media. It emphasizes that defamation is a non-cognizable offence, directing complainants to a magistrate instead. The guidelines also stress protecting political speech unless it incites imminent violence or public disorder. Karnataka govt issues new police guidelines to prevent automatic FIRs and arrests for social media posts, requiring preliminary inquiries. Bengaluru, Feb 9 The Karnataka government has introduced new guidelines to prevent the automatic registration of First Information Reports and arrests related to social media posts. These guidelines were issued through an official circular by the Director General and Inspector General of Police. In the circular signed by the DG and IGP M.A. Saleem, it states, "It has been observed that the police officers are registering the case relating to social media posts mechanically without undertaking preliminary enquiries as stipulated by the Supreme Court of India. The Apex court has upheld the guidelines framed by the Telangana High Court relating to the registration of FIRs in cases arising out of social media posts in the referred judgment." The guidelines require verification of locus standi, preliminary inquiry in cases involving cognizable offences, a higher threshold for media or speech-related offences, protection of political speech, recognition of defamation as a non-cognizable offence, adherence to established arrest protocols, prior legal review in sensitive cases, and safeguards against frivolous or motivated complaints. The circular states, "Before registering any FIR for alleged defamation or similar offences, the office must verify whether the complainant qualifies as the person aggrieved in terms of law. Complaints by unrelated third parties lacking standing are not maintainable, except where the report concerns a cognizable offence. Before registering a crime, the police are required to conduct a preliminary inquiry to ascertain whether the statutory ingredients of the alleged offences are prima facie made out." The guideline further states, "No case alleging promotion of enmity, intentional insult, public mischief, threat to public order, or sedition shall be registered unless there exists prima facie material disclosing incitement to violence, hatred, or public disorder." "The police shall not mechanically register cases concerning harsh, offensive, or critical political speech. Only when the speech amounts to incitement to violence or poses an imminent threat to public order may criminal law be invoked. Constitutional protections for free political criticism under Article 19 (1)(a) of the Constitution must be scrupulously enforced," the guideline stated. Because defamation is a non-cognizable offence, the police are not authorised to register an FIR in such cases. Complainants must be directed to the appropriate jurisdictional magistrate. Police action is permitted only if specifically ordered by a Magistrate under Section 174(2) of the BNSS, as outlined in the guideline. - IANS The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly's Budget Session has commenced in Lucknow with extensive security and traffic arrangements in place. The session, running from February 9 to 20, will feature the presentation of the state budget for 2026-27 on February 11. Deputy Chief Ministers have called for constructive debate from the opposition, which has faced criticism from ruling alliance MLAs for allegedly lacking a clear agenda. The session includes a dedicated daily discussion window to allow all members time to voice their opinions. Uttar Pradesh Assembly's Budget Session commences with heavy security, traffic plans. Deputy CMs urge constructive debate as opposition faces criticism. Lucknow, February 9 The budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly will commence on Monday, with extensive security and traffic arrangements in place in Lucknow. The session, scheduled from February 9 to 20, marks the first legislative meeting of the year in the state. In view of the proceedings, police forces along with the Rapid Response Force (RRF) have been deployed around the Assembly building to ensure smooth and secure functioning. Authorities have also implemented improved traffic management measures in the vicinity of the Assembly to minimise congestion and facilitate the movement of legislators and officials. Ahead of the session, the NDA legislature held a meeting on Sunday with all party MLAs to prepare for the proceedings. Speaking after the meeting, UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said, "It will be a very good budget session. All the MLAs of the state are very enthusiastic. I express my sincere gratitude to all the MLAs." Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya urged the opposition to raise issues constructively, saying, "If the opposition has any issue, they should definitely raise it and behave constructively. If they behave negatively, they will feel that they are playing the role of the opposition. And if they behave negatively, we will pray to God to give them good sense. The budget will be presented on the 11th." NDA MLA Danish Ansari criticised the Opposition for lacking an agenda, stating, "The opposition has no agenda; they should tell whether a good education system has been implemented in UP under the Yogi government or not, they should tell whether the rule of law has been strengthened in UP or not. The Yogi government has fulfilled all the expectations of the common people. The Opposition is talking without any issues; they only know how to mislead the public, but the public will not fall into anyone's trap." The Budget Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly will begin today with a dedicated discussion window from 5 pm to 8 pm daily, which has been established to ensure all members have time to voice their opinions beyond the standard house time limit. The Budget Session is scheduled to run from February 9 to February 20, with the state budget for the 2026-27 financial year to be presented on February 11. The session is expected to witness discussions on key issues, including the presentation of the state budget. Speaker Satish Mahana expressed a broader goal to have the House sit for at least 30 days this year, encouraging the opposition to engage in debate rather than disruption. - ANI The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance has secured a decisive victory in the Maharashtra Zilla Parishad elections, winning 552 of the 731 seats. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hailed the result as a historic achievement, crediting the successful leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi stated the victory reflects widespread public support for good governance across both rural and urban Maharashtra. Fadnavis also thanked the state's voters and praised the efforts of party workers and leaders for the electoral success. Maharashtra CM Fadnavis and PM Modi hail BJP-Mahayuti's major victory in Zilla Parishad polls, securing 552 of 731 seats statewide. Mumbai, February 10 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday remarked that the BJP has successfully expanded its reach across the state, surpassing its previous electoral milestones. CM Fadnavis said, "In 2014, we shattered the perception that BJP is an urban party. We performed even better in 2017 and the results after that are before everyone." Earlier, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his gratitude to the people of the state for reposing their trust in the BJP-Mahayuti alliance in the Zilla Parishad elections. Fadnavis attributed the major and historic victory to the successful leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP National President Nitin Gadkari. He also lauded the efforts of state president Ravindra Chavan, his cabinet colleagues, MPs, MLAs, and workers in the election. Fadnavis congratulated all those elected to the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti, wishing them success in their future endeavours. In a post on X, Maharashtra Chief Minister said, "Once again, BJP is number 1... A resounding victory for BJP-Mahayuti...! Following the municipal and municipal corporation elections, the people have once again shown their strong support to BJP and Mahayuti in the Zilla Parishad elections as well. I extend my heartfelt thanks to them in crores. We all together will strive to prove worthy of the trust you have placed in BJP and Mahayuti, and I assure you of that. Under the successful leadership of Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the guidance of Union Home Minister Hon. Amitbhai Shah and BJP's Hon. National President Nitin Gadkari ji, this major and historic victory has been achieved by BJP-Mahayuti. The tireless efforts put in by our state president Ravindra Chavhan, my cabinet colleagues, MPs, MLAs, and workers in this election are invaluable. I sincerely congratulate each one of them. My deepest congratulations to all those elected to the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti, and my very best wishes for their future journey!" Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the people of Maharashtra have once again reposed their faith in the BJP-led Mahayuti, following the alliance's strong performance in the Zilla Parishad elections. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said that after the convincing mandate in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council polls, the latest results reflect widespread support for the Mahayuti across both rural and urban parts of the State. He said the mandate shows that the people of Maharashtra favour good governance and an alliance that works in harmony with the State's rich cultural ethos. "Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti! After the resounding success of the BJP and Mahayuti in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the people of Maharashtra have given a strong mandate to us in the Zilla Parishad elections. It is clear that across rural and urban Maharashtra, the people of the state want good governance and an alliance which works in the spirit of the state's glorious culture. I express gratitude to my sisters and brothers of Maharashtra, " PM Modi posted on X. He said the victory was a result of the alliance's outreach, highlighting the Maharashtra government's performance and the NDA's vision of development-oriented governance."My compliments to every worker of the Mahayuti for working tirelessly on the ground and elaborating on the solid track record of the Maharashtra Government as well as NDA's vision for good governance," he added in X post. The BJP-led Mahayuti secured a decisive victory in the Maharashtra Zilla Parishad elections, with results announced on Monday according to the State Election Commission. The ruling alliance secured an overwhelming 552 of the total 731 seats across the State. - ANI Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde declared the Mahayuti alliance has achieved a hat-trick by winning the recent zilla parishad and panchayat samiti elections, following earlier successes in municipal bodies. He stated the overwhelming public vote for Shiv Sena strengthens the party's trust and organizational base in rural Maharashtra. Shinde credited the victory to the development work and decisions of the state and central governments over the past three years. He assured that the zilla parishads would be used for the development of farmers, women, youth, and common citizens. Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde says Mahayuti alliance secures hat-trick victory across all tiers of local self-government after zilla parishad results. Mumbai, Feb 9 Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday said the Mahayuti alliance has created a record by achieving a "hat-trick" of victories in the zilla parishad and panchayat samiti elections. After initial successes in municipal councils and nagar panchayats, followed by municipal corporations, and now in the zilla parishad and panchayat samiti polls, Shinde said the Mahayuti has consolidated its position across all three tiers of local self-government. Reacting to the zilla parishad results, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the public had voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Shiv Sena, further strengthening people's trust in the party. "The public has voted overwhelmingly for Shiv Sena in this election, further strengthening their trust in us. We will prove this trust well-founded," Shinde said. The Deputy Chief Minister said the massive support for the Shiv Sena indicates that the party's organisational base is becoming even stronger in rural Maharashtra. He said the victories in Raigad and Ratnagiri demonstrate that the people of the Konkan region stand firmly behind what he described as the "true Shiv Sena". Shinde said witnessing the fulfilment of late Balasaheb Thackeray's dream of taking the Shiv Sena to every household made him nostalgic. He extended special thanks to the "Ladki Bahins" (beloved sisters) in rural areas for their continued support and affection. Shinde attributed the victory to decisions taken by the Mahayuti government over the last three years, citing improvements in roads, water supply, irrigation and education. He said both the state and central governments had not only provided funds but had also focused on strengthening governance at the grassroots level through gram panchayats. The Deputy Chief Minister credited the success to the hard work of party workers and their commitment to addressing public issues. He assured that zilla parishads would be used as instruments for the development of farmers, women, youth and common citizens, adding that the public's trust would not be betrayed. - IANS Security forces conducted coordinated operations across multiple Manipur districts from February 1 to 7. The actions led to the arrest of seven cadres from various insurgent groups and the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and explosives. Forces also successfully foiled an ambush attempt by armed insurgents along the India-Myanmar border. All recovered improvised explosive devices were destroyed on-site following safety protocols. Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police conduct week-long operations, arresting cadres and seizing rifles, IEDs, and explosives. Imphal, February 9 During the period of February 1 to 7, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles formations under Spear Corps, in close conjunction with Manipur Police, executed a series of precise, intelligence- driven joint operations across Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur and Pherzawl Districts. The operations, according to an official release, led to the apprehension of 07 cadres from hill and valley-based groups and the recovery of 18 weapons, explosives and other war-like stores. On Feb 1, Assam Rifles and Thoubal Police Commandos acted on specific intelligence and launched a joint operation in the Mayang Imphal area of Imphal West District. The operation resulted in the apprehension of one active cadre of Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (SOREPA). One smartphone with a SIM card was recovered. On Feb 2, Assam Rifles, in joint operation with Manipur Police, detected a concealed insurgent hideout near Tonglhang village, leading to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, two pistols, two single-barrel rifles, three radio sets, eighteen Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), three 9 mm rounds, eight 7.62 mm rounds, wire bundles and seven fired 7.62 mm cartridge cases. All eighteen IEDs were destroyed in situ following established safety procedures. The remnants weigh approximately 2.5 kilograms. The release said that on the same day, Assam Rifles and Imphal East Police Commandos conducted a joint operation in Kakwa, Imphal West District, resulting in the apprehension of one active cadre of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). One smartphone and one SIM card were recovered. On the same day, Assam Rifles and Imphal West Police Commandos apprehended another active cadre of the PLA in the Lambal area of Imphal West District and recovered one smartphone, one SIM card and one Aadhaar card. On Feb 3, based on credible intelligence regarding suspicious movement of Valley-Based Anti-National Elements and a concealed arms cache in the Loktak Lake area east of Phubala village, a joint operation was launched by Assam Rifles in coordination with local police. The operation resulted in the recovery of one 9 mm country-made carbine with magazine, one 9 mm pistol with magazine, one .32 mm pistol with magazine, five rifle grenades, two lathode bombs, five 12-bore cartridges, ten 9 mm live rounds and one sniper scope. On the same day, Assam Rifles and Imphal West Police Commandos conducted another joint search operation in Lambal, Imphal West District, based on specific inputs and recovered one single bolt-action rifle, seven 9 mm pistols, sixty-four live rounds, six empty magazines, one hand grenade and other war-like stores. Also, Assam Rifles foiled an ambush attempt by armed insurgents along the India-Myanmar Border in the general area of T'Minou near Border Pillar 75, Tengnoupal District. Acting on credible intelligence, troops established an ambush and launched an Area Domination Patrol and repelled insurgents' fire from across the border. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of one AK-56 rifle with magazine (without cylinder), one M4 rifle with magazine and telescopic sight, ten rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, fifteen rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and eight fired cartridge cases, the release noted. On Feb 5, Assam Rifles and Imphal East Police Commandos launched a joint operation in Pungdongbam, Imphal East District, resulting in the apprehension of one active cadre of the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Progressive). On Feb 6, Assam Rifles and Imphal West Police Commandos apprehended one active cadre of the United National Liberation Front (Koireng) in Singjamei, Imphal West District. The operation led to the recovery of one smartphone, one SIM card and one Aadhaar card. On Feb 7, based on specific intelligence regarding the movement of a suspected PREPAK cadre along the Andro-Wangkhem-Irilbung axis, a joint operation was launched by the Indian Army and Imphal East Police Commandos. The operation resulted in the apprehension of one active cadre of PREPAK. On the same day, Assam Rifles and Imphal West Police Commandos apprehended one active cadre of the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Progressive) in Senjam Khunou, Imphal West District. One smartphone with a SIM card was recovered, the release stated. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Malaysia began with a warm reception from the Indian community. During a lunch hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the iconic MGR song "Naalai Namathe" was played, which PM Modi highlighted on social media. The visit featured a series of traditional cultural performances, including Nadhaswaram and a Ramayana-themed Bharatanatyam. Both leaders emphasized the deep-rooted cultural, historical, and economic ties between India and Malaysia. PM Modi's Malaysia visit highlights cultural ties as MGR's "Naalai Namathe" is played during a lunch hosted by PM Anwar Ibrahim. Kuala Lumpur, February 10 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his two-day visit to Malaysia, received a warm welcome from the Indian community and friends of India in Kuala Lumpur. The visit began with meetings, cultural programs, and time spent with members of the Indian diaspora, highlighting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries. During the visit, PM Modi attended a lunch hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday evening. PM Modi later posted on his X account about the moment and mentioned the "special song" played during lunch. One of the songs at the lunch hosted by the Malaysian PM was from the 1975 classic Tamil masala film, which starred M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). In his post, he wrote, "At the lunch hosted by my friend, PM Anwar Ibrahim, one of the songs sung was Naalai Namathe, from a movie starring the great MGR! PM Anwar Ibrahim, like several of us in India, is a big fan of MGR!" Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also shared details of the visit on social media. Part of his tweet read, "On the first day of PM @narendramodi's visit last night, it began with a welcome at the Bunga Raya Complex, before we headed straight to Seri Kembangan to meet the Indian community. May the friendship between Malaysia and India, rooted in cultural, historical, and economic ties that have been intertwined for centuries, continue to blossom and strengthen for mutual benefit." The reception offered a vivid showcase of India's civilizational legacy thriving far from its shores. Prime Minister Modi witnessed a series of traditional performances, including Nadhaswaram and Thavil recitals, the chanting of Thirumurai devotional hymns, Wayang Kulit shadow puppetry, and a Ramayana-themed Bharatanatyam presentation, reflecting centuries-old cultural links between India and Malaysia. - ANI Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated Tata Motors' new passenger vehicle and Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Ranipet, terming it a "golden day" for the state. The greenfield project represents a Rs 9,000 crore investment and is expected to create 5,000 direct jobs, manufacturing both internal combustion and electric vehicles. Stalin thanked Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran for the trust shown in the state and highlighted the long-standing relationship between Tamil Nadu and the Tata Group. The Chief Minister also emphasized his government's "Dravidian Model" focus on converting MoUs into executed projects and attracting further investment. CM MK Stalin inaugurates Tata Motors' Rs 9,000 crore JLR plant in Ranipet, promising 5,000 jobs and reinforcing Tamil Nadu's auto hub status. Ranipet, February 9 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said today is a "golden day" for his state as he inaugurated the new Tata Motors passenger vehicles and Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Panapakkam, Ranipet district. "I am extremely happy to inaugurate this project by the Tata Group," he said in Tamil. "The trust shown by Tata in the Tamil Nadu Government makes us proud. I sincerely thank Tata for investing Rs 9,000 crore in Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu." "The participation of Chandrasekaran in this event gives us great happiness. It is a proud moment for us that he himself has taken part in this inauguration. On the foundation day, I had appealed to him to participate in the manufacturing start day," Stalin said, referring to the Tata Sons Chairman. He asserted that Tata plays an important role in India across sectors such as steel, IT, automobiles, and more, and has created immense value for the nation. "Tata itself carries a strong brand value. Tamil Nadu has a long-standing relationship with the Tata Group...Tamil Nadu is India's automobile manufacturing hub and also a major centre for electric vehicles. Leading automobile industries have set up their plants in Tamil Nadu, and Tata has now joined this list as well," Stalin said. Tata, he said, is known for its quality and strong brand. "I am very happy not only that Tata JLR is operating from Tamil Nadu, but also for its importance to India as a whole." He also noted that the world-famous Land Rover is being manufactured in the state. "Today, the first car has been rolled out." The growth in Tamil Nadu, according to the chief minister, is due to the "focus of our Dravidian Model of governance." He also stressed converting MoUs into projects. "I always say to Industries Minister Thiru T. R. B. Raja that it is not enough to sign MoUs; we must also follow through and ensure their implementation. Our Dravidian Model government will soon conduct an investors' conclave. We are focused not only on launching schemes but also on attracting investments through MoUs and ensuring their execution." Tamil Nadu, he said, has already beaten other states and is now competing with other countries. "We are hopeful that more organisations will come forward to invest, and we assure them that our Dravidian Model will facilitate their growth. Welcoming investors with a smiling face is part of Tamil Nadu's culture. Giving importance to women's empowerment is one of our key priorities," the chief minister said. Finally, he urged Tata to invest more in Tamil Nadu, particularly in research and development and other sectors. "I assure you that we will fully facilitate Tata, and we want Tamil Nadu to be the first choice for investment," he reassured. The Tata Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility has been developed as a greenfield project with an investment of Rs 9,000 crore (USD 994 million). The plant will manufacture both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs). TRB Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotions and Commerce in the Government of Tamil Nadu, highlighted that the new Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Ranipet is expected to create 5,000 direct jobs. - ANI The Madhya Pradesh Board Class 12 board examinations commence on February 10th across the state. In Bhopal, authorities have established 104 examination centers and formed multi-level inspection teams for monitoring. To curb malpractice, CCTV cameras have been installed specifically in 53 centers located in private schools, with live footage monitored at district and collectorate levels. The exams for Class 12 will run until March 7, while Class 10 exams are scheduled from February 13 to March 6. MP Board Class 12 exams begin Feb 10. Bhopal installs CCTV cameras in 53 private school centers and forms inspection teams to prevent cheating. Bhopal, February 9 The Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education Class 12 board examinations will begin across the state from Tuesday, with the administration putting in place extensive arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of exams and prevent unfair practices, officials said. In the state capital, Bhopal, special monitoring mechanisms have been introduced, including the constitution of inspection teams at both block and district levels. In addition, CCTV cameras have been installed at several examination centres, particularly those located in private schools, to closely monitor examination proceedings. Speaking to ANI, Bhopal District Education Officer N K Ahirwar said that a total of 104 examination centres have been set up in the district and all students have been allotted centres accordingly. "There are a total of 104 examination centers have been set up in our Bhopal district, and exam centres have been allotted to all the students. One inspection team has been formed at the block level and two district-level inspection teams have also been formed to ensure continuous monitoring throughout the examination," Ahirwar said. He added that CCTV surveillance has been strengthened at private school centres. "CCTV cameras have been installed in 53 examination centers which are private schools. These centres will be monitored at the district, divisional, and Collector's office levels," he added. The District Education Officer clarified that CCTV cameras have been installed only in those classrooms where students will be appearing for examinations. He said dedicated personnel have been assigned to monitor the live footage. "An operator has also been assigned to each centre to monitor the cameras. Along with this, physical monitoring will also be done with the inspection team working in the field and CCTV monitoring at the district level will also be done to ensure a smooth exam," the officer added. According to MPBSE, the board exams for Class 12th will begin from February 10 and continue till March 7 while the board examinations for Class 10th will begin from February 13 and conclude on March 6. All the examinations will be conducted in one shift from 9 am to 12 noon. - ANI Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav interacted with students in Bhopal as part of the 'Pariksha Par Samvad' programme ahead of the state board examinations. He urged students to prepare with dedication, avoid stress, and cultivate habits of hard work and self-discipline. The CM emphasized that exams are a phase, not a destination, and highlighted the importance of time management, proper sleep, and learning from setbacks. School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh also advised students to focus on preparation through proper time management. Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav interacts with students, offering exam preparation tips on stress management, hard work, and self-confidence. Bhopal, February 9 Ahead of MP board examinations, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav interacted with students as part of "Pariksha Par Samvad - 2026" programme held at Government Subhash Higher Secondary Excellence School in Bhopal on Monday and guided the students for preparation. He urged students taking exams to prepare diligently without stress and to move forward with determination rather than fear. Addressing the occasion, CM Yadav said, "Today's students are the future of the country. They will be the ones to lead the country in the coming time, so all students should continuously improve their skills, knowledge, and performance to refine themselves. Prepare for the exams with complete hard work and dedication, and do not take any stress." The Chief Minister further said, "Examinations are only a phase in our lives, not the ultimate destination. Hard work should be a habit, but don't let stress dominate you. Self-confidence, discipline, and a balanced routine are the ultimate keys to success for students during exam time. Always maintain faith in yourself, move forward with determination, not fear, and fulfill all your dreams." He appealed to all students to stay away from stress during exams, work hard continuously, and score as well as possible. He also advised students on time management, regular practice, and maintaining self-belief in all circumstances. The Chief Minister said that learning from failure and moving forward is the mark of a strong personality, rather than being afraid of it, adding that the state government is making every possible effort to strengthen the education system. He added that all students should get proper sleep during exam time. Set a study schedule. Develop the habit of reflecting on a subject after studying it. Mere literacy is not enough. Students should discuss course topics with their friends and teachers. On the other hand, School Education and Transport Minister, Uday Pratap Singh said that examinations present a challenge every year and students should focus on their preparations through proper time management, without letting stress overpower them. CM Yadav regularly interacts with students, understands their difficulties and makes every possible effort to address them. According to Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE), the board exams for Class 12th will begin from February 10 and continue till March 7 while the board examinations for Class 10th will begin from February 13 and conclude on March 6. All the examinations will be conducted in one shift from 9 am to 12 noon. - ANI The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has registered significant gains in Maharashtra's local body elections for Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis. State NCP chief Sunil Tatkare dedicated the victory to the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, calling it a public tribute to his grassroots development work. Meanwhile, BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed his party emerged as the number one force in the state, crediting the double-engine government for the success. He asserted that the Maha Vikas Aghadi's decline shows voters now prioritize development over criticism. NCP's Sunil Tatkare dedicates local body election victory to late Ajit Pawar's legacy. BJP's Bawankule claims top spot, credits double-engine govt. Mumbai, Feb 9 The Maharashtra NCP chief Sunil Tatkare on Monday said that the party has made a significant surge in the elections held for the 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis, adding that it is a tribute paid by the people to former president and Deputy Chief Minister late Ajit Pawar. "This victory is a tribute paid with gratitude by the people to the work and tireless efforts of our late leader and the state's former Deputy Chief Minister, Ajitdada Pawar," Tatkare said, expressing his emotions. The NCP triumphed in the local body elections. Tatkare dedicated this victory to the late Ajit Pawar's tireless efforts for the common people, emphasising a continued commitment to his legacy and public service. Commenting on the election results, Tatkare stated that Ajitdada had dedicated his entire life to the development of the common man at the grassroots level. "He worked day and night to ensure the flow of development reached every corner of Maharashtra. Today's result is not just a victory but a grand testimony to the unwavering faith the public has in Ajit Dada's ideology and his firm leadership. 'We will carry forward Dada's legacy with greater responsibility," said Tatkare. He further stated, "This victory has increased our responsibility. Our resolve to serve the people more honestly while preserving the legacy of development handed down to us by Ajitdada has become even stronger." As this was the first major local body election since the passing of Ajit Pawar, all eyes were on these results. Following the success in the Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, a wave of excitement has spread among NCP workers, with victory celebrations taking place in various locations. Meanwhile, state revenue minister and BJP in-charge of local body elections, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, said that a vote for Ajit Dada was a vote for Mahayuti, adding that rural voters stand behind the BJP-led coalition. He said that the BJP has emerged as the number one party in Maharashtra, credited the "double-engine government" for the success, and emphasised that the rural population is firmly supporting the state and central governments. Bawankule stated, "I had already said that the BJP would be the number one party in Maharashtra. Just as in Municipal Corporations, the BJP will have Presidents in nearly 8 Zilla Parishads. We took the 'double-engine' government's work to the people. Development in rural Maharashtra will now proceed through these Zilla Parishads." He remarked that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has declined because voters now prioritise development over criticism. He claimed that Congress's "negative campaign" led to their rejection by the public and suggested that Sharad Pawar failed to provide effective guidance to the MVA, leading to their poor results. - IANS The National Green Tribunal has directed Uttar Pradesh authorities and the National Mission for Clean Ganga to submit a fresh progress report on stopping untreated sewage discharge into the Ganga at Varanasi. The Tribunal raised serious concerns about the practice of tapping stormwater drains and treating the Asi river as a drain for sewage diversion. It highlighted gaps in sewage treatment plant utilization and household sewer connectivity, with only 1.56 lakh of 4.14 lakh houses connected. The matter has been scheduled for a further hearing in April 2026. NGT directs UP govt and NMCG to submit a fresh report on stopping sewage and industrial waste discharge into the Ganga at Varanasi. New Delhi, February 9 The National Green Tribunal has directed authorities to submit a fresh progress report on the measures taken to prevent the discharge of untreated sewage and industrial effluents into the Ganga and its tributaries at Varanasi and Chandauli. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, while hearing matters related to river pollution, examined the action plan filed by the Uttar Pradesh government and raised several concerns regarding the implementation of pollution-control measures. The State informed the Tribunal that a comprehensive plan with timelines has been prepared to ensure that untreated domestic and industrial waste is not discharged into the Ganga and Varuna rivers. According to the plan, 76 drains have been identified as flowing into these rivers, including several that are only partially tapped or remain untreated. During the hearing, the Tribunal noted that stormwater drains are being tapped to divert sewage to treatment plants. It observed that tapping such drains as a permanent solution is not permissible and may harm the river's ecology. The Tribunal suggested that if stormwater drains are tapped temporarily, authorities must clearly specify a timeline for restoring them after proper sewer networks are developed. The Bench also took note that the Asi river, a tributary of the Ganga, is being treated as a drain for tapping purposes. Observing that a tributary cannot be tapped under the existing river protection framework, the Tribunal directed the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to explain how such permission was granted. The Tribunal further examined the status of sewage treatment infrastructure in Varanasi. As per the plan, seven sewage treatment plants (STPs) are operational with a total capacity of 420 MLD, of which about 353.5 MLD is being utilized. The Bench expressed concern that untreated sewage is being routed through storm waterdrains to these plants and sought details to ensure that the STPs have not been set up in the floodplain of the Ganga. It also noted that out of more than 4.14 lakh houses identified for sewer connections, only about 1.56 lakh have been connected so far. The Tribunal directed the State to provide a clear timeline for achieving complete household connectivity to the sewer network. Regarding industrial discharge, the Tribunal observed that although the plan mentions effluent treatment plants, it does not clarify whether they are complying with prescribed environmental norms. In view of these issues, the Tribunal granted six weeks' time to the State authorities and the NMCG to file a further progress report addressing its observations and directions. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on April 21, 2026. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the people of Maharashtra have once again blessed the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance following its decisive victory in the Zilla Parishad elections. The ruling coalition secured an overwhelming 552 of the total 731 seats across the state. Within the alliance, the BJP won the most seats at 225, followed by its partners the NCP and Shiv Sena. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, led by the Congress, managed to win only a fraction of the seats. PM Modi thanks Maharashtra after BJP-led Mahayuti wins 552 of 731 Zilla Parishad seats. Results show strong rural & urban support for the alliance. New Delhi, February 10 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the people of Maharashtra have once again reposed their faith in the BJP-led Mahayuti, following the alliance's strong performance in the Zilla Parishad elections. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said that after the convincing mandate in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council polls, the latest results reflect widespread support for the Mahayuti across both rural and urban parts of the State. He said the mandate shows that the people of Maharashtra favour good governance and an alliance that works in harmony with the State's rich cultural ethos. "Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti! After the resounding success of the BJP and Mahayuti in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the people of Maharashtra have given a strong mandate to us in the Zilla Parishad elections. It is clear that across rural and urban Maharashtra, the people of the state want good governance and an alliance which works in the spirit of the state's glorious culture. I express gratitude to my sisters and brothers of Maharashtra, " PM Modi posted on X. He said the victory was a result of the alliance's outreach, highlighting the Maharashtra government's performance and the NDA's vision of development-oriented governance. "My compliments to every worker of the Mahayuti for working tirelessly on the ground and elaborating on the solid track record of the Maharashtra Government as well as NDA's vision for good governance," he added in X post. The BJP-led Mahayuti secured a decisive victory in the Maharashtra Zilla Parishad elections, with results announced on Monday according to the State Election Commission. The ruling alliance secured an overwhelming 552 of the total 731 seats across the State. Within the Mahayuti, the Bharatiya Janata Party emerged as the single largest party with 225 seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party won 165 seats and the Shiv Sena accounted for 162 seats. On the opposition side, the Maha Vikas Aghadi put up a modest showing. The Congress led the alliance with 55 seats, followed by the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) with 43 seats and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) with 26 seats. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena managed to win two seats, one each in Latur and Ratnagiri. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with students in Coimbatore as part of the annual 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' programme. He provided practical advice on launching startups, suggesting students form teams with diverse skills and learn directly from existing entrepreneurs. Modi emphasized that studies and artistic passions are interconnected and should not be seen as separate, using the example of drawing scientific concepts. The programme, organized by the Ministry of Education, aims to transform exam preparation into a positive experience. PM Narendra Modi advises students on launching startups and balancing arts with studies during the Pariksha Pe Charcha 2024 interaction in Coimbatore. Coimbatore, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday shared parts of his interactions with students as part of his unique annual programme 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' and gave them a mantra to launch their own startup and strike a balance between their passion and studies. He also shared practical advice on handling board examinations, building confidence, staying positive, and overcoming common challenges such as anxiety and pressure, while also emphasising that he "learns a lot of things from students" during such interactions. Organised by the Ministry of Education, 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' aims to turn exam preparation into a positive experience rather than a source of stress. During the interaction with students from Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore, a student asked the Prime Minister what steps she could take to launch her own startup. "What should I do at an educational level that would help me prepare for launching my own startup?" Chavi Jain asked. To this, PM Modi replied, "Whenever I meet a youngster nowadays, the first thing they say is 'Startup'. First, you should focus on what you want to do. Some startups want to innovate in technology. Some want to make drones, some want to do something different. You might have some friends who are interested in technology, some are finance experts -- all can get together and form a startup." "Being 25 years old is not a qualification for launching a startup; one can start anytime. The work can start with small startups, too. It is good that you have an interest in this," he said. The Prime Minister also gave a 'mantra' to the students, advising them to reach out to the industry professionals and understand how they work. "You can meet people who are running a startup. You can tell them that you are working on a school project and want to understand the startup concept. They will not hide anything from you. They will explain things to you. By doing this, you can gain the knowledge to move forward in this field," he added. Another student asked the Prime Minister about her concerns about maintaining a balance between her studies and her passion. "How can we pursue art, craft and design alongside our studies and achieve a balance?" she asked. PM Modi explained that both studies and passion are "beneficial" and "interconnected". "Don't see studies and art as separate," he said. "Suppose you like the arts, and you were taught a science chapter which contains practical assessments, then you can take out a paper and draw a lab on it. You can make diagrams of the chemicals and other things. Like this, you are learning while making art," the Prime Minister said, stressing the balance between hobbies and studies. "You can use art to relieve stress and fatigue from studies during the exams," he said. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with students nationwide during the Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 session, offering practical life advice. He cautioned against becoming enslaved by technology, advocating for its balanced and mindful use to enhance abilities. Modi encouraged students to approach travel with a learning mindset and emphasized that fearlessness is the foundation of leadership. He also shared personal insights on managing high-pressure situations, relating it to exam stress and underscoring the importance of focused preparation. PM Modi urges students to avoid tech slavery, travel smartly, and lead fearlessly in the latest Pariksha Pe Charcha session. Get key takeaways on exam stress. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a lively interaction during the second episode of the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, engaged students from multiple states on Monday, offering practical life lessons amid the build-up to board examinations. While interacting with students on technology, the Prime Minister cautioned them against becoming enslaved by gadgets. He advised students to harness digital tools to sharpen their abilities and expand their strengths, warning that excessive dependence can restrict personal freedom and urging mindful, balanced usage in daily life. Addressing a student's question on vacation travel, PM Modi recommended drawing up lists of worthwhile spots in their own tehsil and across the country. He stressed approaching travel with a student's mindset of curiosity and learning, rather than mere sightseeing, turning holidays into opportunities for discovery and growth. Speaking about developing leadership, PM Modi said fearlessness must come first. He encouraged students to make firm decisions to act, even when others hesitate -- simple acts like cleaning up litter can inspire those around them. Once courage takes root, he said, leadership qualities emerge naturally as people follow the example set. In response to a query about managing high stress during the Pulwama attack aftermath, when national attention focused on him, PM Modi related it to exam pressure. He emphasised that intense, focused preparation and consistent practice form the best antidote to anxiety. By concentrating fully on the task at hand, he noted, stress naturally diminishes, paving the way for success and clarity. Broadcast live from locations including Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Raipur in Chhattisgarh, Guwahati in Assam, Devmogra in Gujarat, and New Delhi, the session connects directly with young learners nationwide through Doordarshan and digital platforms. The multi-city format of this episode enhances regional inclusivity, allowing diverse student voices to share experiences while receiving guidance on confidence, resilience, and holistic preparation. As Pariksha Pe Charcha continues to inspire millions ahead of exams, PM Modi's messages blend everyday wisdom with motivation, reinforcing the programme's role in transforming exam season into a positive journey of self-discovery and growth. This episode builds on the first session from February 6, where PM Modi wore an Assamese gamcha, promoted indigenous products, and inspired students to dream of a developed India in 25 years. The programme, launched in 2018 at Talkatora Stadium, has evolved into a mass movement. From just 22,000 participants initially, registrations soared to over 4.5 crore this year, surpassing previous records, including a Guinness recognition in 2025. Pariksha Pe Charcha serves as a supportive platform for students, teachers, and parents to discuss exam stress, time management, positivity, and life skills. - IANS Both Houses of Parliament are set to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The Opposition, led by the INDIA bloc, is planning protests and demanding a discussion on the framework of a US-India trade agreement, raising concerns about agricultural imports. The NDA has welcomed the budget, which focuses on infrastructure and youth, while also increasing a tax on futures trading. The session will also see the tabling of an audit report on a coal ministry PSU. Parliament begins discussing Union Budget 2026-27. Opposition plans protests over US trade deal, while NDA welcomes the budget proposals. New Delhi, February 9 Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 on Monday, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. FM Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Lok Sabha, for the ninth consecutive time. Asserting that the Budget is driven by "Yuvashakti" and based on "three kartavyas," she proposed seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years. The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options (F&O) to discourage speculative trading. While the NDA has welcomed the Budget, the Opposition alleged an exclusion of the marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12. While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States. Earlier, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc floor leaders are scheduled to meet ahead of today's Parliament sitting at the residence of Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. In the meeting, they will discuss and decide on the future course of action for the ongoing Budget Session. In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal. - ANI Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal publicly credited US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor for his pivotal role in concluding the framework for the India-US interim trade agreement. Speaking at a reception, Goyal praised Gor's "support and personal leadership" as essential to the deal. The framework involves India eliminating tariffs on US industrial and agricultural goods while the US will impose an 18% reciprocal tariff on certain Indian imports. India also plans to purchase $500 billion worth of US energy products, aircraft, and other goods over five years. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal credits US Ambassador Sergio Gor's leadership for the India-US interim trade deal framework, strengthening bilateral ties. New Delhi, February 9 Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday credited US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor for the successful conclusion of the framework for the India-US interim trade agreement, praising his "support and personal leadership" in strengthening bilateral economic ties between the two countries. Speaking at a reception hosted at Ambassador Gor's residence in the national capital, the Commerce Minister said, "I must place on record that the trade deal would not have been possible but for his support and his personal leadership in the entire engagement. Thank you very much, Sergio, for all that you've done to further strengthen this bond between the US and India." Goyal also wished the US Ambassador a pleasant tenure in India, noting that the country's warmth and hospitality would make his work "great fun". "I wish you well in your assignment. I wish you have a wonderful stay in India. You will meet all the wonderful people across the country who would love to know you and work with the United States of America. Without a doubt, I can tell you that this country, with all its warm hospitality, will be great fun to work in and to travel around," he stated. Gor presented his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu during an official ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 14, formally becoming the 27th United States Ambassador to India. Earlier, during an interview with ANI, the Union Commerce Minister credited the Gor for playing a "very important role" in concluding the framework of the India-US interim trade agreement. He said he had no hesitation in recognising Gor's role in finalising and announcing the agreement, calling him a "dear friend" and a "well-wisher" of the India-US relationship. "Certainly, I have no hesitation in acknowledging that Ambassador Sergio Gor, who is a dear friend, has been a well-wisher of this relationship. He did play a very important role in concluding the conversation towards finalisation and announcement. And I would like to recognise and respect his contribution," Goyal said. The United States and India announced a framework for an Interim Agreement on reciprocal, mutually beneficial trade, reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) launched by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. As part of the framework, India has agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US agricultural and food products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. On the other hand, the United States will impose a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on goods originating in India, including textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, plastic and rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal goods and certain machinery. Subject to the successful conclusion of the Interim Agreement, the US has said it will later remove reciprocal tariffs on select items, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts. India also intends to purchase USD 500 billion of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next five years. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special economic package of $175 million for Seychelles to fund concrete projects across several key sectors. The package aims to support social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security initiatives. Both nations agreed to explore new opportunities in fintech, digital solutions, and trade in local currencies to strengthen economic cooperation. The announcement came during talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, marking his first visit to India as President. PM Modi announces a $175 million special economic package for Seychelles to support projects in housing, e-mobility, health, defence, and maritime security. New Delhi, Feb 9 Calling development partnership a "strong foundation" of New Delhi-Victoria ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced a special economic package of $175 million for Seychelles to support concrete projects in various sectors like social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. While addressing a joint press meet with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie following their talks at Hyderabad House in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on Seychelles' priorities and needs. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of $175 million. This package will support concrete projects in sectors such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security." These initiatives, according to the Prime Minister, will create employment and skill development opportunities for the people of Seychelles, especially the youth. "India's ITEC program has played a significant role in capacity building in Seychelles. I am pleased that an MoU is being signed today for the training of Seychelles civil servants in India," he added. PM Modi announced that India and Seychelles agreed to continue exploring new opportunities to strengthen economic cooperation between the two nations. He stated that two nations will move forward in fintech and digital solutions and promote trade in local currencies. "The ties between India and Seychelles are not limited to diplomatic contact. The waves of the Indian Ocean have connected our people for centuries. On its shores, trade between the two countries has grown, cultures have blended, and the traditions of faith have become stronger. India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust and shared vision for the future," he said. PM Modi called Seychelles an integral part of India's MAHASAGAR Vision, and said, "Our relationship spans the past, the present, and the future. As a maritime neighbour and trusted partner, Seychelles is an integral part of India's MAHASAGAR Vision. Our cooperation encompasses land, sea, and air." Extending a warm welcome to Herminie and his delegation to India and wishing him on his election as President of Seychelles. "This is his first visit to India as President. His visit is taking place in an auspicious year, as Seychelles celebrates its 50th Independence Day, and we commemorate the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. I am confident that these milestones will continue to inspire us to reach new heights," he added. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, strengthening efforts for peace in the Indian Ocean. He announced a special economic package of $175 million to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, health, and defence. The leaders agreed to expand cooperation in renewable energy, climate resilience, and digital transformation, sharing India's expertise. The visit marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, with several new agreements signed to deepen the multifaceted partnership. PM Modi welcomes Seychelles to Colombo Security Conclave, announces $175M special economic package to deepen defence, maritime, and digital cooperation. New Delhi, February 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave and called defence and maritime cooperation are important pillars of the relationship. He further noted that India and Seychelles would expand cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, resilience, climate adaptive solutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the remarks during the joint press meet with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie here in the national capital on Monday. PM Modi said that as maritime neighbours, the blue economy is a natural area of cooperation between the two countries and that India will share its expertise in marine research and capacity building with Seychelles. "In the areas of marine research, capacity building, data sharing- India will share its expertise with Seychelles. Defence cooperation and maritime security are important pillars of our cooperation." He welcomed Seychelles as a full member of Colombo Security Conclave. "This will strengthen our efforts for peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and deepen our ties. Together we will shape not just bilateral cooperation but a shared future for the Indian Ocean." He added, "We will expand our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, resilience, climate adaptive solutions." Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the various MoUs and documents being signed between India and Seychelles to further deepen collaboration between the two maritime neighbours. He also announced that the India-Seychelles Joint vision would be launched today which would become a roadmap for cooperation. "A digital transformation is taking place. Under this, we will share India's successful experience with Seychelles. We will move forward together with Seychelles in ensuring the supply of affordable and quality medicines, promoting medical tourism, and developing health infrastructure", he said. He hailed how the Indian community settled in Seychelles has made remarkable contributiond to the social and economic life of Seychelles and also strengthened our friendship from generation to generation. "Through close cooperation in the field of technology, we are giving our partnership a futuristic direction", he added. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. India and Seychelles exchanged several agreements and MoUs reflecting the multifaceted cooperation between the India and Seychelles partnership. These include Pharmacopoeial Cooperation, Cultural Exchange Programmes from 2026-2030, Cooperation in the Field of Knowledge Sharing of Successful Digital Solutions implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation and Memorandum of Understanding between National Cooperative Exports Limited and Seychelles Trading Corporation on Procurement of Food among others. Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with students during the 'Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026' session, expressing delight that young minds are already envisioning a developed India by 2047. He emphasized that discipline forms the essential foundation for a meaningful and successful life, calling inspiration merely a bonus. The PM illustrated his point with practical examples, urging students to avoid food waste and follow traffic rules as acts of personal responsibility that collectively strengthen the nation. He encouraged viewing exams as opportunities for character building and linked daily habits directly to the larger goal of national progress. PM Modi urges students to adopt disciplined daily habits like avoiding food waste to help build a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Watch the full session. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed great delight during the second episode of 'Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026' on Monday, upon discovering that students in Classes 10 and 12 are already envisioning a 'Viksit Bharat' or Developed India. Speaking at an interactive session with students in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, among others from different parts of the country, PM Modi highlighted how young minds are thinking beyond exams towards the nation's future goals. He praised their interest in contributing to India's development by 2047 and urged them to adopt habits that reflect the discipline seen in developed nations. PM Modi gave a simple yet powerful example: finishing every bit of food on the plate at home. He asked students to imagine the massive savings in food if everyone avoided wastage -- even small amounts left uneaten add up across millions of households. Such small acts, he said, directly help build a stronger, more responsible India. The Prime Minister also spoke about everyday discipline, using the red light at traffic signals as an illustration. If a person stops their scooter at a red light without fail, it shows self-control and respect for rules. PM Modi emphasised that these basic civic habits are essential steps toward national progress. Youth, he noted, must take ownership of such changes in their daily lives to make Viksit Bharat a reality. The Prime Minister stressed that discipline forms the foundation of a meaningful life. Without it, he said, no amount of inspiration or motivation can bring true success or purpose. Discipline comes first, while inspiration is "merely an added bonus, like a cherry on top", he said. The episode, part of the ninth edition that has drawn over 4.5 crore registrations, featured lively exchanges with students from various states. PM Modi encouraged them to view exams not just as tests but as opportunities to build character and skills for lifelong growth. He linked personal responsibility -- whether in studies, habits, or community actions -- to the larger vision of a developed nation. Viewers across India tuned in via Doordarshan, the Prime Minister's YouTube channel, and other platforms. The session reinforced Pariksha Pe Charcha's aim to reduce exam stress while inspiring students to think about their role in India's journey towards prosperity and discipline. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam to review bilateral cooperation. The leaders discussed progress since their last meeting in Varanasi and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening historic ties. PM Modi highlighted a special economic package for Mauritius supporting infrastructure, healthcare, and employment. Both leaders look forward to meeting in person at the upcoming AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. PM Modi and Mauritius PM Ramgoolam discuss bilateral progress, economic package, and cooperation ahead of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening received a phone call from Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam as the two leaders reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between both countries ahead of their meeting during the next week's AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. "Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call. "Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite our two nations. India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. I look forward to welcoming him to India for the AI Impact Summit next week," he added. India and Mauritius share a close and special relationship rooted in shared historical, cultural and people to people ties. As India's key maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Mauritius holds a special place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and the 'Neighbourhood First Policy' and is a key partner in the Global South. Following PM Modi's visit to Mauritius in March 2025, Ramgoolam undertook a State Visit to India in September 2025 which was his first overseas bilateral visit in his present term. Prime Minister Modi and his counterpart from Mauritius had held delegation-level talks in Varanasi where both sides comprehensively reviewed the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between both countries and identified new opportunities to deepen collaboration across sectors of mutual interest that will drive shared prosperity for both countries, their peoples, and the region. "It is a matter of pride for India to be a trusted and primary partner in Mauritius' development. Today, we have decided on a Special Economic Package keeping in mind the needs and priorities of Mauritius. It will strengthen infrastructure, create new employment opportunities and strengthen health facilities," PM Modi said while addressing a joint press meet alongside Ramgoolam during which he announced India's special economic package for Mauritius that supports infrastructure, employment and healthcare sectors. "The first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India has now been established in Mauritius. Today, we have decided that India will support the construction of AYUSH Centre of Excellence 500-bed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National (SSRN) Hospital and Veterinary School and Animal Hospital in Mauritius. We will also take forward projects like the Chagos Marine Protected Area, the ATC tower of the SSR International Airport and the expansion of the highway and ring road. This package is not an assistance, it is an investment in our shared future," he added. PM Modi had also announced that India's IIT Madras and Indian Institute of Plantation Management have signed agreements with the University of Mauritius and stressed that these agreements will take mutual partnership in research, education and innovation to a new level. Welcoming the Mauritian leader to Varanasi, PM Modi said, "It is a matter of pride for me to welcome you in my parliamentary constituency. For centuries, Kashi has been a symbol of India's civilization and culture. Our traditions and values reached Mauritius centuries ago and became deeply rooted in its way of life. And today, when we welcome friends from Mauritius in Kashi, it is not just a formality but a spiritual union. That is why I proudly say that India and Mauritius are not just partners but a family." "Mauritius is an important pillar of India's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision Mahasagar. In March, I had the privilege of attending the National Day celebrations of Mauritius. At that time, we gave our relations the status of Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Today, we have reviewed all aspects of bilateral cooperation in detail. We also exchanged views on regional and global issues," he had added. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a phone call from Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, reviewing the progress in bilateral cooperation since their meeting last year. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the special historic ties between the two nations. Modi welcomed Ramgoolam to India for the upcoming AI-Impact Summit, scheduled for February 16-20 in New Delhi. The summit aims to bring global leaders together to deliberate on AI's role in governance and sustainable development. PM Modi spoke with Mauritius PM Ramgoolam, reviewed bilateral progress, and invited him to the upcoming AI-Impact Summit in New Delhi. New Delhi, February 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday received a phone call from his Mauritian counterpart, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, during which both leaders discussed the progress in the extensive cooperation between the two countries. In a post on X, PM Modi welcomed the Mauritian Prime Minister to India for the upcoming AI-Impact Summit, scheduled for next week. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-focused ties between the two nations. "Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year. Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite our two nations. India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. I look forward to welcoming him to India for the AI Impact Summit next week," the Prime Minister stated in his post. Last year in September, India extended a comprehensive Special Economic Package exceeding USD 680 million to Mauritius and signed multiple agreements during the State visit of Mauritian Prime Minister Ramgoolam to India. The two leaders also held wide-ranging discussions covering bilateral, regional, and global issues, culminating in the signing of seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across diverse sectors, including science and technology, oceanography, public administration, power, small development projects, hydrography, and space cooperation. Meanwhile, India is set to host the AI-Impact Summit, scheduled from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, marking the first global AI summit to be held in the Global South. Designed as a five-day programme covering policy, research, industry and public engagement, the Summit is anchored on three foundational pillars or "Sutras": People, Planet and Progress, and is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators and experts to deliberate on AI's role in governance, innovation and sustainable development. The India AI Impact Expo, spanning over 70,000 square metres, is expected to feature more than 300 exhibitors from 30 countries across 10 thematic pavilions, showcasing AI's transition from research and pilots to large-scale deployment. The Summit builds on India's development-focused approach to AI, aligns with the IndiaAI Mission and Digital India Initiative, and emphasises translating global AI discussions into practical, people-centric outcomes. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi, discussing bilateral issues and strengthening partnership. Earlier, President Herminie paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, with the MEA noting Gandhi's principles guide the bilateral relationship. The visit included meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, focusing on port-led development and coastal management. The state visit also featured a business forum in Chennai highlighting collaboration in digital tech, renewable energy, and tourism. PM Narendra Modi meets Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in Delhi. Talks focus on Vision MAHASAGAR, maritime cooperation, and economic collaboration. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday and held delegation-level talks, discussing bilateral issues. Earlier in the day, Patrick Herminie, who is on a State visit to India, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also called on Patrick Herminie on Monday and lauded his support towards advancing Vision MAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Following the meeting, EAM Jaishankar in a post on X wrote, "Delighted to call on President Dr Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing Vision MAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM Narendra Modi later today will open new vistas for our cooperation." Patrick Herminie on Sunday arrived in New Delhi on Sunday after concluding his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport. In a statement shared on X, Jaiswal stated: "President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles arrived in New Delhi after productive engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, where he met key stakeholders, including in the fields of governance, industry, coastal management and health sector". "He was warmly received by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel at the airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," he added. Herminie arrived in India on Thursday for a five-day State visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his visit to Mumbai, he met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and the two leaders discussed various issues, especially port-led development, coastal management and promising opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Maharashtra and Seychelles. "Maharashtra welcomes Seychelles ! Extremely happy to welcome the beautiful country Seychelles' President Hon'ble Dr. Patrick Herminie, along with the Ministers at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. Extended my warm wishes to HE and the people of Seychelles for 50th year of independence celebrations and for 50th year of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, this year!" CM Fadnavis had posted on X. "Had a great interaction on varied subjects especially port led development, coastal management and promising opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Maharashtra and Seychelles. I also welcome the Hon Ministers: Mr. Barry Faure- Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Pierre Laporte - Minister for Finance Ms. Veronique Laporte- Minister for Transport Mrs. Amanda Bernstein- Minister for Tourism and Culture," he added. On February 6, Herminie attended the India-Seychelles Business Forum organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in Chennai. In his speech, he highlighted priority sectors for collaboration, including digital technologies, renewable energy, tourism, higher education, and electric mobility, according to the statement released by FICCI on X. In a post on X, FICCI stated, "As part of the Forum, a dedicated CEOs' Roundtable was also conducted, where leading Indian industry members interacted directly with the Hon'ble President and the accompanying ministerial delegation from Seychelles." - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a motivational Sanskrit verse during the Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 event, highlighting six key qualities for success. He addressed students from multiple locations, reinforcing the programme's goal of guiding young minds to use their talents meaningfully. The interactive session, organized by the Ministry of Education, has garnered massive participation with over 4.5 crore registrations. Modi's message focuses on holistic development, encouraging students to cultivate knowledge, logic, and action to overcome life's challenges. PM Narendra Modi quotes a Sanskrit verse on knowledge and action at Pariksha Pe Charcha, inspiring students to overcome challenges and realize their dreams. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the immense talent and boundless potential of India's students during the ongoing ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, emphasising that they hold the complete ability to transform their dreams into reality. In a message shared on X on Monday, the Prime Minister highlighted the core purpose of the interactive programme, saying that 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' aims to guide young minds on how to channel their abilities and skills meaningfully for personal growth, success, and overcoming life's challenges. He wrote: "Our students, endowed with extraordinary talent, possess the full potential to turn their dreams into reality. The objective of Pariksha Pe Charcha is precisely this: to show how they can make meaningful use of their talent and skills." To reinforce his message, PM Modi quoted a powerful Sanskrit Subhashitam. The verse translates to: A person who possesses knowledge (vidya), logical reasoning (vitarka), scientific understanding (vijnana), sharp memory (smriti), promptness and readiness (tatparata), and active effort (kriya) can surmount any obstacle -- nothing remains impossible or unattainable for such an individual. The Prime Minister's words came amid the live second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha, which featured multi-location interactions with students from Raipur, Coimbatore, Devmogra and Guwahati. The programme, organised by the Ministry of Education, has already seen over 4.5 crore registrations this year, underscoring its massive reach and popularity as a platform to reduce exam stress, build confidence, and inspire holistic development. PM Modi's message aligns with the series' evolving format, where he engages directly with students to discuss not only exam preparation but also life skills, discipline, leadership, and the responsible use of talent. By invoking the ancient wisdom of the Subhashitam, he encouraged students to cultivate these six essential qualities -- knowledge, logic, science, memory, alertness, and action -- to face any challenge with determination. The post on X attracted positive reactions from students, parents, and educators, who shared it widely, viewing it as timely motivation ahead of board examinations. As Pariksha Pe Charcha continues to inspire millions, the Prime Minister's emphasis on inner potential and purposeful skill-building reinforces the programme's role in nurturing a confident, capable generation ready to contribute to a developed India. - IANS Seychelles President Patrick Herminie has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Guest of Honour for the nation's 50th independence anniversary this June. The invitation was extended during a state visit where both leaders reinforced cooperation on maritime security, defence, and regional stability in the Indian Ocean. PM Modi announced a special economic package of $175 million to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, health, and vocational training in Seychelles. The visit also commemorated 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with discussions covering trade, tourism, and digital transformation. Seychelles President invites PM Modi as Guest of Honour for independence anniversary, announces $175M aid package and strengthens maritime ties. New Delhi, February 9 Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Guest of Honour for the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence Day. He made the announcement during the joint press meet with PM Modi here in the national capital on Monday. He said that his visit is reflective of the longstanding friendship and mutual respect between India and Seychelles President Herminie said, "This year marks a significant milestone in our relations. In June, Seychelles and India will commemorate the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations, coinciding with Seychelles' 50th anniversary of independence, to which Mr Modi will be invited as a guest of honour. We have shared our shared vision on cooperation over the next 5 years." He said that as Indian Ocean states, maritime security and regional stability remain central to the relationship and said that they reaffirmed the shared responsibility for promoting safety, stability and lawful activity in the western Indian ocean. "Our collaboration in maritime surveillance, security and defence capacity development continues to play a vital role in countering international crime, piracy and maritime threats and safeguarding critical sea lanes". He further highlighted the support given to renewable energy, and resilience. He praised the ITEC program and noted that it has strengthened the country's institutional capabilities and human resources. "Tourism remains a cornerstone of the Seychelles economy, and India represents a growing market supported by improving air connectivity", he added. He further noted that the discussions focussed on trade, investment and opportunities for greater collaborations. "India's growing role in health diplomacy, including the sharing of medical expertise, institutional partnerships, and specialised care, has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Seychelles...We signed a Memorandum of Understanding on sharing successful digital solutions for digital transformation", the President added. During the press remarks, PM Modi welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave and called defence and maritime cooperation are important pillars of the relationship. PM Modi also announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. - ANI President Droupadi Murmu received a group of specially-abled children from Ladakh at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The visit was part of a National Integration Tour aimed at promoting cultural exchange and inclusion. These tours are educational initiatives for youth from Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern States to expose them to India's heritage and development. The program, supported by the Indian Army, seeks to empower students from remote regions and strengthen their connection to the nation. President Droupadi Murmu interacts with specially-abled children from Ladakh on a National Integration Tour at Rashtrapati Bhavan. New Delhi, February 10 President Droupadi Murmu on Monday received a group of specially-abled children from Ladakh at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The visit was part of the National Integration Tour, aimed at promoting cultural exchange and inclusion among children from different parts of the country, the officials added. In a post on X, the official handle of Rashtrapati Bhavan shared pictures of the interaction, stating, "A group of specially-abled children from Ladakh called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The group visited Rashtrapati Bhavan as part of the National Integration Tour." These National Integration Tours are educational and motivational tours for youth of Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern States, with an aim to provide an insight into the rich heritage of the country as well as various developmental and industry initiatives that are underway, according to the earlier release. This initiative will expose them to various career options and enable them to interact with renowned personalities. This initiative reflects the Indian Army's dedication to the holistic development of youth in border and remote regions. By empowering the next generation through exposure and awareness, the Army continues to play a pivotal role in nation-building and strengthening civil-military relations. The initiative seeks to broaden the horizons of students from remote areas, enabling them to appreciate India's technological and educational progress while strengthening their emotional connection with the nation. The participants conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for this unique learning experience, which they described as an eye-opening and motivational journey. Last year, in month of march, The President met students from various Eklavya Model Residential schools of Jammu and Kashmir, who were the part of National Integration Tour initiative at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations. The visit marks 50 years of diplomatic ties and highlights Seychelles as a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR for maritime cooperation. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also called on the President, appreciating his support for the initiative. The President's itinerary included sectoral engagements in Chennai and Mumbai on healthcare, ports, and business cooperation before his high-level meetings in the capital. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie meets PM Modi & EAM Jaishankar. Visit focuses on Vision MAHASAGAR, healthcare, and maritime cooperation. New Delhi, February 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the Hyderabad House. Earlier the Seychelles President also paid his trubutes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Earlier on Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called upon Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and appreciated the President's support to vision MAHASAGAR. President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. His visit, which will continue until February 10, is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. According to a post on X by the Ministry of External Affairs, during his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, Herminie met key stakeholders across sectors, including governance, industry, coastal management, and health, to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. MEA underscored Seychelles' strategic importance to India, describing the island nation as a key maritime neighbour and a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to cooperation with the Global South. "Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," the post added. During his stay in New Delhi, President Herminie is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties as well as exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. In Chennai, Herminie, along with Seychelles Minister of Health Marvin Nolan Fanny, met with Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in the island nation through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the Seychelles President met with Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities. The engagement in Mumbai aimed at strengthening ties with India and Seychelles, with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development. - ANI The Ministry of External Affairs has announced the appointment of Rachita Bhandari, a 2005 batch IFS officer, as India's next High Commissioner to Malta. India and Malta share longstanding diplomatic relations dating back to 1965, with a resident High Commissioner in place since 2018. Bilateral engagement is robust, featuring cultural agreements, festivals, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi. The growing Indian diaspora, estimated at 18,000, is active in various sectors including healthcare, IT, and hospitality. IFS officer Rachita Bhandari appointed India's High Commissioner to Malta, strengthening bilateral ties and cultural exchange. New Delhi, February 10 Rachita Bhandari, of the Indian Foreign Service batch 2005, presently Joint Secretary in the Ministry, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Malta, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said. Bhandari is expected to take up the assignment shortly, the statement said. India and Malta enjoy friendly and cordial relations. India was one of the first countries to recognise the independence of Malta in 1964 and established diplomatic relations with it in 1965. The High Commission of India was reopened in Malta in Jan 2017 and the resident High Commissioner of India took charge in Jan 2018. Malta opened its High Commission in New Delhi in July 2007 and has Honorary Consuls in Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. India-Malta bilateral relations have been friendly, with a number of visits having been exchanged between the two sides, as per MEA. A cultural agreement between India and Malta was signed in 1992 and remains in force. Cultural events such as film festivals, food festivals, and performances by Indian cultural troupes have been organised by the High Commission. There is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Malta, gifted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Malta Post issued Commemorative Stamps on the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The International Day of Yoga is being regularly celebrated in Malta. The Indian musical band 'Astitva', sponsored by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations, participated at the Destination North festival in September 2023 in a first such visit by a cultural troupe from India to Malta in many years, MEA stated. The High Commission organised the Indian Film Festival on 16-17 March 2024 in Valletta and on 11-14 April 2024 in Gozo. In partnership with the Indian community, the High Commission organises various Indian festivals in Malta. The Indian community in Malta is estimated to be around 18,000. The Indian diaspora in Malta has grown rapidly in recent years. In addition to the health care sector, the other sectors employing Indians include the Hospitality Industry, the Construction sector, the IT sector and related services. Several Indian Associations like Malta Malayalee Association, Malta Tamil Association, Bengali Association Malta, Gujarati Association and Navodaya Sanatan Group have been formed in recent years. - ANI BJP MP Ujjwal Nikam has stated that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not opposed to any religion, countering what he calls wrong propaganda. He made the remarks after attending an RSS lecture series where chief Mohan Bhagwat discussed the organization's vision for a strong India. Bhagwat urged people to form opinions by directly observing the Sangh's work and workers, rather than relying on digital sources like Wikipedia which he labeled misleading. The comments come as the RSS emphasizes social cohesion projects and grassroots engagement to define its identity. BJP MP Ujjwal Nikam defends RSS, says it's not anti-religion. Mohan Bhagwat urges direct observation over Wikipedia for understanding Sangh. Mumbai, February 9 BJP MP Ujjwal Nikam praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, emphasising that the organisation is not opposed to any religion, contrary to claims by some. Speaking to the reporters, Nikam informed that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat discussed RSS and its vision for India as a strong nation during the RSS' Two-Day Lecture Series on '100 Years of Sangh Journey'. "RSS and its vision for India as a strong nation was discussed by Mohan Bhagwat. I heard his valuable thoughts and insights on such a grand scale for the first time. The Sangh is not against any religion, as is wrongly propagated by some people," Nikam told reporters. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday urged people not to rely on Wikipedia or general media coverage, which he labels "misleading" or "propaganda," and called for internal unity while warning about deep scepticism toward external portrayals of the Sangh. Addressing a gathering in Mumbai, Bhagwat urged a deeper exploration of what "Hindu Rashtra" (Hindu Nation) means, framing it not just as a political label but as a call for citizens to work with "selfless purpose" and "excellence" in their respective fields. "When forming an opinion about the RSS, base it on what you see and the original sources. Avoid relying on Wikipedia or perceptions, as they contain misleading information. You won't understand the RSS through propaganda... Observe the Sangh directly: examine its workers, their homes, its branches, and its programs. This will give you a clear understanding of what RSS is... What does it mean that India is a Hindu nation? What does it mean that we are Hindus? Understand all of this and then do whatever you are doing with excellence, with authenticity, with selfless purpose, and with all your heart and soul for the benefit of the country...," he said. This comes at a time when the RSS is increasingly focused on social cohesion projects (Samajik Samrasta) and expanding its footprint beyond traditional strongholds. By dismissing digital sources such as Wikipedia, Bhagwat is attempting to bypass the "information war" and re-establish the Sangh's identity through grassroots engagement. - ANI The Central Board of Film Certification has cleared the Telugu-Tamil bilingual "Couple Friendly" for release with an adult 'A' certificate. Starring Santosh Soban and Manasa Varanasi, the film is scheduled for a Valentine's Day release on February 14th. The trailer suggests a story where two individuals from different backgrounds enter a live-in relationship, facing familial and societal challenges. The film is presented by UV Creations and produced by Ajay Kumar Raju. Santosh Soban & Manasa Varanasi's Telugu-Tamil film 'Couple Friendly' gets an A certificate from CBFC. Releasing this Valentine's Day. Hyderabad, Feb 9 The Central Board of Film Certification has cleared director Ashwin Chandrasekar's Telugu romantic drama 'Couple Friendly', featuring actors Santosh Soban and Manasa Varanasi in the lead, for release with an 'A' certificate. The makers of the film, while announcing that the film had been cleared for release by the censor board, also disclosed that the film had a run time of Two hours and one minute. UV Creations, the production house presenting the film, took to its social media timelines to make the announcement. Sharing a poster with the letter 'A' written boldly on it, the production house wrote, "#CoupleFriendly is 'A' beautiful story filled with smiles, tears and love. In cinemas on FEB 14th in Telugu & Tamil. This Valentine's Day is going to be #CoupleFriendly." An interesting trailer released by the makers has got film buffs interested in the film. The trailer released by the makers begins with a man urging the hero to return quickly with his partner as their absence could trigger a major problem. The trailer then shows how the couple's first meeting. The story, we understand happens in Tamil Nadu, as Shiva (Santosh Soban) talks to Mithra (Manasa) in Tamil first. He asks her if she stays at a hostel in Tamil and realises she is a Telugu-girl when her phone's ringtone is in Telugu. We then realise that Shiva is looked down upon by his own family members because of his inability to earn money. Mithra, meanwhile, is asked by her family to return to Chittoor and that her dad is interested in getting her married into a good family. The trailer gives the impression that difficult situations compel Mithra to eventually move in with Shiva. With time, both of them fall in love and they have a live-in relationship. As things begin to fall in place, Mithra tells Shiva that they should get married. But what happens then is what the film is all about... The film has been produced by Ajay Kumar Raju of UV Concepts and is being presented by UV Creations. It has cinematography by Dinesh Purushothaman and music by Aditya Ravindran. Editing is by Ganesh Siva while Art direction is by Michael. - IANS Seychelles President Patrick Herminie paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi, highlighting Gandhi's principles as a guide for bilateral ties. He later met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his state visit, which marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The visit included substantive engagements in Chennai and Mumbai focusing on healthcare, maritime trade, and the blue economy. India emphasized Seychelles' role as a key maritime neighbor and partner in its Vision MAHASAGAR initiative for the Global South. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie pays homage at Rajghat, meets PM Modi, and discusses bilateral cooperation during his state visit to India. New Delhi, February 9 Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House after his visit to Rajghat. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called upon Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and appreciated the President's support to vision MAHASAGAR. President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. His visit, which will continue until February 10, is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. According to a post on X by the Ministry of External Affairs, during his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, Herminie met key stakeholders across sectors, including governance, industry, coastal management, and health, to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. MEA underscored Seychelles' strategic importance to India, describing the island nation as a key maritime neighbour and a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to cooperation with the Global South. "Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," the post added. In Chennai, Herminie, along with Seychelles Minister of Health Marvin Nolan Fanny, met with Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in the island nation through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the Seychelles President met with Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities. The engagement in Mumbai aimed at strengthening ties with India and Seychelles, with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development. - ANI Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar has been admitted to a hospital in Pune due to chest congestion. His daughter and MP, Supriya Sule, stated he requires a five-day antibiotic course but all other vital signs are normal. Doctors attribute the condition to fatigue from a hectic travel schedule over recent days. An appeal has been made to party workers not to gather at the hospital to avoid inconvenience. NCP chief Sharad Pawar admitted to Pune hospital with chest congestion. Daughter Supriya Sule says he needs antibiotics but vital parameters are normal. New Delhi, February 9 Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital on Monday and his daughter Supriya Sule said that he has developed chest congestion and will need a five-day course of antibiotics. Supriya Sule, MP, said in a post on X that Sharad Pawar's other vital parameters are normal. "Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a 5-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your good wishes and constant support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart," she said. Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital's Dr Abhijeet Lodha earlier told the media that Sharad Pawar's condition is stable. His preliminary examination has been completed. Since his oxygen levels and heart rate are normal, there is no cause for concern at present. Due to continuous travel and engagements over the past few days, he has experienced fatigue. Due to chest congestion, a respiratory examination was also conducted. He has been admitted to a private room and does not require oxygen support," he said. Rohit Pawar, grand nephew of Sharad Pawar said the senior leader has had a hectic schedule over the past few days. "Over the past ten to twelve days, Sharad Pawar has had a very hectic schedule. Due to physical exhaustion and mild breathing discomfort, he was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic. Doctors have conducted all necessary tests, and the results are normal. I personally spoke to the doctors. Once the remaining test reports are received, a decision will be taken on whether he should stay in Pune or be shifted to Mumbai," he said. An appeal has been made to NCP(SP) workers not to gather in the hospital so that other patients are not inconvenienced. - ANI Actress Shivaleeka Oberoi celebrated three years of togetherness with her husband, director Abhishek Pathak, by sharing a romantic post on Instagram. The couple, who met on the set of "Khuda Haafiz," got married in February 2023. They recently announced they are expecting their first child, sharing news from their traditional godh bharai ceremony. Oberoi is known for the "Khuda Haafiz" franchise, while Pathak directed the hit film "Drishyam 2." Actress Shivaleeka Oberoi celebrates 3 years with husband Abhishek Pathak, director of Drishyam 2, as they await their first child. Mumbai, Feb 9 Actress Shivaleeka Oberoi, known for her work in the "Khuda Haafiz" franchise, marked three years of togetherness with husband Abhishek Pathak by sharing a heartfelt message that beautifully captured their journey. Shivaleeka took to Instagram, where she shared a string of romantic images from their intimate anniversary celebrations. Celebrating the milestone, Shivaleeka wrote: "Soul-mated so hard that we hung out once & just knew we would get married and have babies one day. Happy 3 to us...soon becoming 3!" Shivaleeka and Abhishek first met while working on the 2020 Vidyut Jammwal-starrer "Khuda Hafiz," which follows the story of Sameer, a young man, leads a content life with Nargis, his wife. However, when she is kidnapped by human traffickers, he must rescue her. The duo exchanged rings in July 2022 and finally tied the knot in February 2023. Shivaleeka made her acting debut with the 2019 release "Yeh Saali Aashiqui" and later rose to fame with "Khuda Haafiz" in 2020. She was last seen in "Khuda Haafiz: Chapter 2 - Agni Pariksha" in 2022, where both she and Vidyut reprised their characters Nargis and Sameer from the original drama. On the other hand, Abhishek directed "Drishyam 2", featuring Ajay Devgn, Shriya Saran, Tabu, and Akshaye Khanna.He has also directed Udta Chaman. Abhishek has also produced movies such as Pyaar Ka Punchnama,Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2, Section 375 and Khuda Haafiz. It was on December 19, when the actress announced that the couple is set to welcome their first bundle of joy. The parents-to-be announced the news in a joint social media post that read, "Our love story has found it's sweetest verse - a tiny blessing is joining our universe (Baby angel, evil eye and Dizzy emojis) (sic)." On February 1, the actress shared a heartwarming glimpse from her traditional 'godh bharai' ceremony, offering a peek into the intimate celebration filled with love, blessings and joy as she embraces a new chapter in her life. Shivaleeka took to Instagram, where she shared a video from the ceremony. The clip begins with a board, which read: 'Welcome to the Godh Bharai ceremony of parents to be Shivaleeka and Abhishek." The video featured their family blessing them for the new chapter. "Godh bharai Surrounded by love, traditions, laughter and endless blessings," she wrote as the caption. - IANS South Korean President Lee Jae Myung congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi after her Liberal Democratic Party secured a decisive election victory. Lee expressed hope for Japan's continued development and a desire to further strengthen bilateral relations. The two leaders have held summits in Gyeongju and Nara, agreeing to cooperate on future-oriented areas like supply chains and artificial intelligence. Lee looks forward to welcoming Takaichi to South Korea for the next round of shuttle diplomacy to build on this progress. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung congratulates Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi on her party's election victory, seeks to deepen bilateral ties via shuttle diplomacy. Seoul, Feb 9 South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her party's victory in an election, wishing for Japan's further development under her leadership and hoping to meet her in South Korea via shuttle diplomacy. Lee posted the congratulatory message on social media platform X after Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party secured a two-thirds majority in the 465-member House of Representatives in snap elections held Sunday, Yonhap News Agency reported. "I sincerely congratulate you on your election victory," Lee wrote. "I hope Japan will continue to develop further under the prime minister's leadership." Lee said Seoul and Tokyo took the first step toward shaping the next 60 years of bilateral relations during their summit talks in Nara, Japan, in January and expressed hope to further develop bilateral ties. "I hope the two countries will broaden and deepen relations based on trust and friendship," Lee said, adding that he looked forward to welcoming Takaichi to South Korea through the next round of shuttle diplomacy in the near future. The two leaders first held summit talks on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Gyeongju last October, just days after the Japanese prime minister took office. They later held a second summit in Nara, Takaichi's hometown, last month as part of leader-level exchanges known as "shuttle diplomacy." During the talks in Nara, Lee and Takaichi agreed to advance bilateral relations through cooperation in "future-oriented" areas, such as supply chains and artificial intelligence. Lee also floated the idea of holding their next summit in his hometown of Andong. Lee has pledged to pursue a "two-track" approach to diplomacy with Japan by expanding future-oriented cooperation while continuing to address unresolved wartime history issues stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of Korea. - IANS The General Secretary of Sri Lanka's ruling Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), Tilvin Silva, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. The meeting focused on reinforcing historical ties and exploring sector-specific collaborations, with Gujarat offering its policy expertise. Silva expressed admiration for Gujarat's progress and thanked India for its consistent support, including the loan of sacred Buddha relics. Chief Minister Patel invited Sri Lanka to participate as a partner country in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027. JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva meets CM Bhupendra Patel, discussing tourism, industrial partnership, and Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2027. Gandhinagar, February 9 General Secretary of Sri Lanka's ruling party, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, Tilvin Silva, and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. Welcoming the delegation to Gujarat CM expressed confidence that India-Sri Lanka relations have strengthened under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the meeting would be productive in giving renewed momentum to the long-standing historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He emphasised that Gujarat, being a policy-driven state, offers a range of sector-specific policies from which Sri Lanka could benefit. He also advocated mutual coordination between the State Government and Sri Lanka in areas of shared interest. According to an official release, the meeting had discussions and deliberations on strategies to encourage more people from Gujarat to visit Sri Lanka for tourism. General Secretary of JVP was deeply touched during his first visit to India and Gujarat, the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and shared his admiration for Gujarat's remarkable progress. He thanked the Central and State Governments for Gujarat's contribution in providing the sacred relics of Lord Buddha for an exhibition held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Tilvin Silva also expressed appreciation for India's consistent support to Sri Lanka during times of need, including assistance in infrastructure development. He expressed keen enthusiasm for an industrial partnership between Gujarat and Sri Lanka. Recalling his visit to Amul, he conveyed a strong interest in learning from Gujarat's expertise, knowledge-sharing practices, and technical know-how across sectors, including the cooperative sector. The Chief Minister extended an invitation for Sri Lanka to participate as a partner country in the upcoming Vibrant Summit 2027. He also shared detailed insights into the successful organisation of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS), which, under the guidance of the Prime Minister, presents Gujarat's industrial strengths at the global stage. Chief Secretary MK Das, Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries Department Mamta Verma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjeev Kumar, Industries Commissioner Swaroop P, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Vikrant Pandey, Secretary Ajay Kumar, and other senior officials joined the Chief Minister for the meeting. - ANI The Tamil Nadu BJP held a meeting of its 13-member Election Manifesto Committee in Chennai to prepare for the 2026 Assembly elections. The meeting, chaired by State President Nainar Nagendran, was attended by senior leaders including Union Minister L Murugan and committee head Tamilisai Soundararajan. The committee aims to gather public opinions through its "Makkalukkaga Makkalidamirundhu" outreach campaign. Members have also sought inputs from specific communities, such as weavers, to shape the party's platform. BJP's Tamil Nadu poll manifesto panel discusses key inputs for 2026 Assembly elections, chaired by State President Nainar Nagendran. Chennai, February 9 Ahead of the forthcoming 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, the State BJP on Monday held a meeting of its 13-member Election Manifesto Committee in Chennai. The meeting held at the party's state headquarters, 'Kamalayam' was chaired by the Tamil Nadu BJP State President Nainar Nagendran. Nagendran said that the meeting was attended by Union Minister of State L Murugan and others were among those present at the consultation meeting that "was held for all state office-bearers of Tamil Nadu BJP, who have been touring all assembly constituencies as part of the preparations for our 2026 assembly elections." He posted photographs from today's meeting on his X handle. Former Telangana Governor and senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan, who heads the poll committee took to her social media platforms to say that the meeting "discussed key inputs and people-centric ideas for the upcoming election." Soundararajan, said that the BJP's national election in-charge for Tamil Nadu Aravind Menon and the party's national co-incharge for the State Pongalatti Sudhakar Reddy, along with other party functionaries, were present. "BL Sanosh the organising general secretary, is here to guide us as to how to go organizationally as well as politically. Nainar Nagendran is presiding over this meeting, and all cadres and election in-charges are geared up for this," BJP leader Narayanan Thirupathy said. Members of the poll manifesto committe include party's State vice-presidents VP Duraisamy, KP Ramalingam, P Kanagasabapathy, and State general secretaries Raama Sreenivasan and Karthiyayini. Other members include C Narasimhan, KS Radhakrishnan, ANS Prasad and R Arjuna Moorthy. The 13-member committee was officially constituted in January 2026 by Nainar Nagenthran and aims to reflect the "Makkalukkaga Makkalidamirundhu" (For the people, from the people) outreach campaign that BJP launched to gather opinions from the public. Meanwhile, Soundararajan said she received a memorandum for the Election Manifesto from the BJP Weavers Cell State President Annadurai. She also posted a photograph of the meeting on her social media platform X. The poll committee members had earlier visited weavers and sought inputs from them on boosting the handloom sector. In the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly, the DMK won 133 seats in the 2021 Assembly polls. Congress won 18, PMK won 5, VCK won 4, and others won 8. - ANI Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran inaugurated a new Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, built with a Rs 9,000 crore investment. He expressed optimism about opportunities from India's trade deals with the EU, UK, UAE, and US. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin hailed the event as a "golden day" for the state, emphasizing its status as India's automobile and EV manufacturing hub. The plant is expected to create 5,000 direct jobs and produce both electric and internal combustion engine vehicles. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran inaugurates new JLR plant in Tamil Nadu. CM MK Stalin calls it a golden day, highlights state's auto hub status. Ranipet, February 9 The trade agreements with the EU, UK, UAE, and now with the US bring tremendous opportunities for India, said Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran, as he said he was "extremely positive" about the future opportunities. "Its open up both the world market and the Indian market. I am extremely positive about the opportunities that lie ahead...," the Tata Sons Chairman said, on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony of Tata Motors passenger vehicles and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu. Speaking about the manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, Chairman Tata Group, N Chandrasekaran said the plant was conceived to bring the latest Tata Motors models as well as Jaguar Land Rover models. "It has been built with a production capacity of 3 lakh vehicles. This will probably be the beginning for us to produce high-end vehicles...," he added. On the occasion, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said today is a "golden day" for his state. "I am extremely happy to inaugurate this project by the Tata Group," he said in Tamil. "The trust shown by Tata in the Tamil Nadu Government makes us proud. I sincerely thank Tata for investing Rs 9,000 crore in Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu." "The participation of Chandrasekaran in this event gives us great happiness. It is a proud moment for us that he himself has taken part in this inauguration. On the foundation day, I had appealed to him to participate in the manufacturing start day," Stalin said, referring to the Tata Sons Chairman. He asserted that Tata plays an important role in India across sectors such as steel, IT, automobiles, and more, and has created immense value for the nation. "Tata itself carries a strong brand value. Tamil Nadu has a long-standing relationship with the Tata Group...Tamil Nadu is India's automobile manufacturing hub and also a major centre for electric vehicles. Leading automobile industries have set up their plants in Tamil Nadu, and Tata has now joined this list as well," Stalin said. Tata, he said, is known for its quality and strong brand. "I am very happy not only that Tata JLR is operating from Tamil Nadu, but also for its importance to India as a whole." He also noted that the world-famous Land Rover is being manufactured in the state. "Today the first car has been rolled out." The growth in Tamil Nadu, according to the chief minister, is due to the "focus of our Dravidian Model of governance." The chief minister also stressed converting MoUs into projects. "I always say to Industries Minister Thiru T. R. B. Raja that it is not enough to sign MoUs; we must also follow through and ensure their implementation. Our Dravidian Model government will soon conduct an investors' conclave. We are focused not only on launching schemes but also on attracting investments through MoUs and ensuring their execution." Tamil Nadu, he said, has already beaten other states, and now is competing with other countries. Finally, he appealed to Tata to invest more in Tamil Nadu, especially in research and development and other sectors. "I assure that we will fully facilitate Tata, and we want Tamil Nadu to be the first choice for investment," he reassured. The Tata Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility has been developed as a greenfield project with an investment of Rs 9,000 crore (USD 994 million). The plant will manufacture both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as well as electric vehicles (EVs). TRB Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotions and Commerce in the Government of Tamil Nadu, highlighted that the establishment of the new Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Ranipet is set to generate 5,000 direct jobs. - ANI US President Donald Trump publicly congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her coalition's decisive election victory, which secured a historic two-thirds supermajority. Trump offered a "complete and total endorsement" of Takaichi and her conservative agenda, praising her leadership and popularity. The victory allows Takaichi's ruling Liberal Democratic Party to pursue constitutional revisions and strengthens her mandate. Trump highlighted close bilateral coordination on trade and security and looks forward to hosting Takaichi at the White House in March. US President Donald Trump congratulates Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi on her coalition's historic supermajority victory, offering a "total endorsement." Washington DC, February 9 US President Donald Trump on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her coalition on what he described as a "landslide victory" in Japan's general election, calling the outcome historic and praising her leadership. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "Congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Coalition on a LANDSLIDE Victory in today's very important Vote." He described Takaichi as "a highly respected and very popular Leader" and said her decision to call an election had "paid off big time." Trump noted that Takaichi's party now commands a two-thirds supermajority in the legislature, terming it "a HISTORIC TWO THIRDS SUPERMAJORITY -- the first time since World War II." He added, "It was my Honor to Endorse you and your Coalition. I wish you Great Success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda." Commending Japanese voters, Trump said the "wonderful people of Japan" had voted with enthusiasm and would "always have my strong support." US President Donald Trump on Sunday endorsed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as Japan held a crucial legislative election. Trump said he was looking forward to welcoming Takaichi to the White House on March 19, recalling his recent visit to Japan, during which he and his delegation were "extremely impressed" with her leadership. Highlighting bilateral cooperation, Trump pointed to close coordination between Washington and Tokyo on national security and trade. He said the United States and Japan have worked together on "a very substantial Trade Deal, one that strongly benefits both Countries." In a direct endorsement of a foreign leader during an election, Trump declared, "As President of the United States of America, it is my Honor to give a Complete and Total Endorsement of her, and what her highly respected Coalition is representing." He concluded the message with a strong vote of confidence in the Japanese leader, writing in capital letters, "SHE WILL NOT LET THE PEOPLE OF JAPAN DOWN!" and wished voters luck ahead of what he called their "very important Sunday Vote." Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's upcoming visit to Washington, her first since taking office, will precede US President Donald Trump's planned April trip to China, as Beijing has taken an increasingly hard-line stance over her comments on a potential crisis in the Taiwan Strait, Kyodo News reported. Trump has repeatedly praised Japan's commitment to making large-scale investments in the United States, a key element of a trade deal reached last summer following his tariff threats against Tokyo, Kyodo News said. Since her early days in office, Trump has publicly lauded Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, describing her as a protegee of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, with whom he forged a close personal relationship during his first term. On Sunday, the US State Department said the administration looks forward to advancing " U.S. security and economic priorities, as well as our shared interests, in the Indo-Pacific and globally" with Japan, Kyodo News reported. A State Department spokesperson described the US-Japan alliance as "the cornerstone of peace, security and prosperity" in the region, adding that it "has never been stronger," according to Kyodo News. - ANI Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited a school in Bhopal to interact with students ahead of the upcoming board examinations. He highlighted that the New Education Policy's provision for two board exams per year will be beneficial for students. The CM advised students to prepare diligently, avoid stress, and rely on self-confidence and discipline for success. He also stated that the state government is making efforts to strengthen the education system. MP CM Mohan Yadav interacts with students, highlights benefits of two board exams yearly under NEP and shares exam preparation tips. Bhopal, February 9 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited a Government Excellence School in Bhopal on Monday and interacted with students ahead of the upcoming board examinations. Addressing the students, the Chief Minister congratulated children across the state and wished them success. "On my behalf, I congratulate all the children across the state. Board exams are scheduled for the next few days. Under the new education policy, there will be two exams every year. This will be beneficial", he told ANI. Earlier in the day, ahead of the MP board examinations, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav interacted with students as part of the "Pariksha Par Samvad - 2026" programme, held at Government Subhash Higher Secondary Excellence School in Bhopal on Monday, and guided them on preparation. He urged students taking exams to prepare diligently without stress and to move forward with determination rather than fear. Addressing the occasion, CM Yadav said, "Today's students are the future of the country. They will be the ones to lead the country in the coming time, so all students should continuously improve their skills, knowledge, and performance to refine themselves. Prepare for the exams with complete hard work and dedication, and do not take any stress. The Chief Minister further said, "Examinations are only a phase in our lives, not the ultimate destination. Hard work should be a habit, but don't let stress dominate you. Self-confidence, discipline, and a balanced routine are the ultimate keys to success for students during exam time. Always maintain faith in yourself, move forward with determination, not fear, and fulfill all your dreams." He appealed to all students to stay away from stress during exams, work hard continuously, and score as well as possible. He also advised students on time management, regular practice, and maintaining self-belief in all circumstances. The Chief Minister said that learning from failure and moving forward is the mark of a strong personality, rather than being afraid of it, adding that the state government is making every possible effort to strengthen the education system. According to Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE), the board exams for Class 12th will begin from February 10 and continue till March 7 while the board examinations for Class 10th will begin from February 13 and conclude on March 6. All the examinations will be conducted in one shift from 9 am to 12 noon. - ANI Tamil Nadu's Industries Minister T R B Rajaa highlighted the inauguration of a new Tata Jaguar Land Rover luxury car manufacturing facility in Ranipet. The Rs 9,000 crore greenfield project will produce both internal combustion engine and electric vehicles. This marks the second major car manufacturing plant to open in the state within a span of just six months. The minister credited the rapid execution to the state government's governance model, reinforcing Tamil Nadu's status as a leading automobile hub. Tamil Nadu inaugurates a Rs 9,000 crore Tata Jaguar Land Rover plant in Ranipet, marking the state's second major car manufacturing unit opened within six months. Chennai, February 9 Tamil Nadu Minister for Industries T R B Rajaa on Monday said that the state has witnessed the opening of two massive car manufacturing factories back to back within a span of just six months, highlighting the pace of industrial growth under the state government. The Minister made the remarks as Tata Motors is officially inaugurating on Monday its Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) luxury car manufacturing facility in Ranipet district of Tamil Nadu. The new plant is located at Panapakkam and marks a significant expansion of JLR's manufacturing footprint in India. In a social media post, Rajaa described the day as a proud moment for the state and credited the speed of execution to the governance model of the Tamil Nadu government. He wrote, "BEAUTIFUL DAY for TamilNadu Today, we will innaugurate the TATA Jaguar Land Rover Luxury ICE & EV factory in Ranipet Two Massive Car Manufacturing factories opened back to back within a span of six months !!!In under Two Years TN has seen Tata JLR and Vinfast go from MoU to #JobsForTN.That's the speed of Honourable #CMMKStalin's #DravidianModel governance.Truly Proud" According to the information shared, the Tata Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility has been developed as a greenfield project with an investment of Rs 9,000 crore (USD 994 million). The plant will manufacture both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as well as electric vehicles (EVs), highlighting Tamil Nadu's growing role in the future mobility ecosystem. The inauguration of the JLR plant comes within months of another large car manufacturing facility being established in the state, reinforcing Tamil Nadu's position as one of India's leading automobile and auto-component hubs. The Minister highlighted that within less than two years, major global automotive players have moved from signing memorandums of understanding to actual production and job creation in the state. The Ranipet facility is expected to significantly enhance Jaguar Land Rover's domestic manufacturing capabilities and strengthen its supply chain in India. The development is seen as a boost for employment generation, industrial growth and the local economy in the Ranipet region. - ANI The Presidents of the UAE and Egypt met in Abu Dhabi, jointly calling for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and affirming the two-state solution as the essential path to peace. They warned that further regional escalation would have severe repercussions for all states. Beyond security, they discussed strengthening economic ties, highlighted by a major UAE investment in Egypt's Mediterranean coast. The meeting occurred as Egypt's Foreign Minister separately advocated for deploying an international force to Gaza to monitor a ceasefire. UAE and Egyptian leaders call for permanent Gaza ceasefire, two-state solution, and discuss deepening economic cooperation and investment. Abu Dhabi, Feb 9 The leaders of the United Arab Emirates and Egypt met Monday to call for a permanent end to the fighting in Gaza, emphasising that the "two-state solution" remains the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi met in Abu Dhabi against a backdrop of regional tension. According to the UAE's state news agency WAM, the two leaders stressed the urgent need to secure a lasting ceasefire and ensure that humanitarian aid can reach civilians in Gaza without obstacles. In a statement released by the Egyptian presidency, the leaders warned against further escalation, noting that a wider conflict would have "repercussions for all," and argued that regional stability depends on protecting the "unity and territorial integrity" of Middle Eastern states, Xinhua news agency reported. They also reaffirmed their commitment to "peaceful means" as the primary tool for resolving the region's overlapping crisis. Beyond the crisis in Gaza, the two leaders discussed ways to deepen economic ties. Sheikh Mohamed took al-Sisi on a tour of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, an institution at the heart of the UAE's push to become a global tech hub. The UAE has been a key source of foreign investment for Egypt. In 2024, the UAE announced a landmark 35-billion-U.S.-dollar deal to develop a massive stretch of Egypt's Mediterranean coast, a project that injected foreign currency and helped stabilise the Egyptian pound. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty had on Sunday called for the immediate deployment of an international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Abdelatty made the appeal during a phone call with his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, as the two diplomats discussed escalating regional tensions, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Abdelatty emphasised the critical need to advance the second phase of the US-proposed peace plan, including deploying the International Stabilization Force to Gaza, which was endorsed by the UN Security Council in November last year. He reiterated Egypt's support for the newly formed Palestinian technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, describing it as a vital transitional body to address daily administrative and humanitarian needs. The committee, established in mid-January, is intended to pave the way for the Palestinian Authority's full return to governance in the territory, he affirmed. The minister also stressed the importance of ensuring a continuous flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and laying the groundwork for early recovery and reconstruction. The current ceasefire, in effect since October 10, has initially focused on prisoner exchanges and aid delivery. The proposed next phase envisions a full Israeli military withdrawal, the disarmament of Hamas, and the start of reconstruction under transitional governance. - IANS UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the escalating violence in South Sudan, where nearly 10 million people need humanitarian aid. Attacks on healthcare facilities, aid convoys, and the looting of supplies are crippling life-saving operations and displacing hundreds of thousands. Since late December, at least 11 healthcare facilities have been attacked in Jonglei State alone. Guterres calls for all parties to immediately halt military operations, protect civilians, and ensure safe humanitarian access. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for immediate halt to military operations in South Sudan as attacks cripple aid and displace thousands. Geneva, February 9 UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalating violence in South Sudan and gave a call to all parties to immediately and decisively halt all military operations, de-escalate tensions through dialogue. In a statement delivered by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, it mentioned, "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the escalating violence in South Sudan, where nearly 10 million people - more than two thirds of the population - need life-saving humanitarian assistance and continue to bear the brunt of the conflict." The statement noted how fighting, attacks and looting of humanitarian and health facilities - alongside movement restrictions and insecurity on key supply routes - are crippling humanitarian operations and shutting down essential services, placing civilians, including aid workers, at serious risk. The statement highlighted that since late December, at least 11 healthcare facilities have been attacked across Jonglei State, disrupting life-saving services. It further mentioned how the attacks have also included the seizure of 12 vehicles, including an ambulance. "In the past week alone, incidents across the country have included repeated attacks on a World Food Programme convoy, an airstrike on a hospital run by Medecins Sans Frontieres, and the burning of a Save the Children field office and destruction of its health center." The statement condemned the disregard for medical and humanitarian operations, calling it unacceptable and must stop. As per the statement by the UN Chief, more than 3,70,000 people have reportedly been displaced by fighting across the country this year alone, including over 280,000 people in Jonglei State, amid a rapidly worsening cholera outbreak. "The Secretary-General calls on all parties to immediately and decisively halt all military operations, de-escalate tensions through dialogue, uphold international law, protect civilians, and ensure safe and sustained humanitarian access and the security of aid workers and United Nations peacekeeping personnel and their assets", the statement concluded. According to UN News, South Sudan, the world's youngest nation, gained independence from Khartoum in 2011 but soon descended into a brutal civil conflict marked by political rivalry, ethnic violence and repeated peace deal breakdowns. It further noted that despite a 2018 agreement, insecurity and localised fighting have continued to undermine stability and recovery. - ANI Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted a 'janta darshan' in Lucknow, personally hearing public grievances ahead of the state's budget session. The legislative assembly session is scheduled from February 9 to 20, with extensive security arrangements in place around the assembly building. Ahead of the session, the NDA legislature held a meeting, with Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak expressing confidence in a productive session. Meanwhile, NDA MLA Danish Ansari criticised the opposition for lacking a concrete agenda, claiming the government has met public expectations. UP CM Yogi Adityanath listens to public grievances in Lucknow ahead of the state's budget session, with security heightened for the legislative meeting. Lucknow, February 9 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minsiter Yogi Adityanath on Monday held a 'janta darshan' in Lucknow and listened to people's grievances and complaints ahead of the state budget session set to commence today. People lined up with their grievances listed in papers, with the UP CM individually talking to each member of the public and directing officials to commence work on helping the people. Earlier, CM Adityanath also met Governor Anindiben Patel at Lok Bhavan. The Chief Minister's janta darshan was held just before the commencement of the budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Extensive security and traffic arrangements have been put in place in Lucknow. The session, scheduled from February 9 to 20, marks the first legislative meeting of the year in the state. In view of the proceedings, police forces along with the Rapid Response Force (RRF) have been deployed around the Assembly building to ensure smooth and secure functioning. Ahead of the session, the NDA legislature held a meeting on Sunday with all party MLAs to prepare for the proceedings. Speaking after the meeting, UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said, "It will be a very good budget session. All the MLAs of the state are very enthusiastic. I express my sincere gratitude to all the MLAs." Whereas, NDA MLA Danish Ansari criticised the Opposition for lacking an agenda, stating, "The opposition has no agenda; they should tell whether a good education system has been implemented in UP under the Yogi government or not, they should tell whether the rule of law has been strengthened in UP or not. The Yogi government has fulfilled all the expectations of the common people. The Opposition is talking without any issues; they only know how to mislead the public, but the public will not fall into anyone's trap." The Budget Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly will begin today with a dedicated discussion window from 5 pm to 8 pm daily, which has been established to ensure all members have time to voice their opinions beyond the standard house time limit. Speaker Satish Mahana expressed a broader goal to have the House sit for at least 30 days this year, encouraging the opposition to engage in debate rather than disruption. - ANI Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath appealed to the opposition to allow smooth proceedings during the state's Budget Session. He announced the presentation of an economic survey highlighting Uttar Pradesh's transition from a 'BIMARU' state to a breakthrough economy. The state budget for 2026-27 will be presented on February 11, with the session concluding on February 20. Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana assured that both ruling and opposition sides would have equal opportunity to raise concerns. UP CM Yogi Adityanath presents economic survey, urges opposition against disruptions in Assembly. Budget to be presented Feb 11. Lucknow, February 9 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday urged the Opposition not to disrupt House proceedings during the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly. Addressing mediapersons ahead of the Assembly sitting, CM Adityanath said that the State government will present an economic survey to showcase the state's achievements in the journey of becoming "a breakthrough state in the Indian economy" The Chief Minister said, "The legislature is indeed an important pillar of democracy. It functions through dialogue, not by disrupting proceedings. If any member wants to raise an issue, disrupting the proceedings is, in a way, an attempt to dilute the very issues they want to draw attention to." "After the Governor's address today, when the address is laid on the table of the House, the economic survey of Uttar Pradesh will also be presented in the House immediately. This is the first time any state government will present its economic achievements. We would like to note that we have moved Uttar Pradesh out of its BIMARU (backwards) state and established it as a breakthrough in the Indian economy. "All public representatives and the people of Uttar Pradesh have the right to know about these factors and the journey of Uttar Pradesh's economic progress. The economic survey report covering all these aspects will also be presented in the House today, and I believe that this report will be an important document for all members during the discussion on the Governor's address and also during the budget discussion, for presenting and discussing their data," he said. The Chief Minister informed that the Budget will be presented on February 11. "The Budget Session is going to start today. There are two major agendas in the Budget Session. First, the address of the Governor and second, the presentation of the General Budget. The General Budget 2026-27 will be presented on 11th February, and there will be discussions on the same. The session will run till February 20," he said. UP Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana said both the ruling and the opposition sides will have equal opportunity to raise their concerns in the House. "As the session begins, I believe matters related to public welfare will be taken up. Both sides will have equal opportunity to raise their concerns in the House. The opposition can present their concerns, and the government will respond to them," the Assembly Speaker said. The session, scheduled from February 9 to 20, marks the first legislative meeting of the year in the state. - ANI Zero tariff for some Bangladesh textiles using US inputs The United States and Bangladesh have signed a landmark Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, the first of its kind for the US in South Asia. The deal will see the US reduce its reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi goods to 19% and establish a zero-tariff mechanism for specific textile exports using US inputs. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated the agreement opens markets and creates opportunities for American exporters. Bangladesh officials hailed the pact as a historic new level in bilateral economic relations. The US and Bangladesh sign a landmark trade agreement to reduce tariffs and boost market access, strengthening bilateral economic ties. Washington DC, February 10 The United States and Bangladesh on Monday signed the United States-Bangladesh Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations, according to a statement by the Office of the US Trade Representative. The agreement was signed by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Bangladesh's Adviser for Commerce, Textiles and Jute, and Civil Aviation and Tourism, Sheikh Bashir Uddin. Also present at the signing were Bangladesh Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer joined Bangladesh's Adviser for Commerce, Textiles and Jute, and Civil Aviation and Tourism Sheikh Bashir Uddin in signing the United States-Bangladesh Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, a statement by the Office of the US Trade Representative said. "Under President Trump's leadership, the United States is pursuing a trade policy that delivers real results for American workers and businesses, strengthening our economic and security partnerships abroad," the statement quoted Greer as saying. He further said, "Today's signing of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with Bangladesh is the first in South Asia and marks a meaningful step forward in opening markets, addressing trade barriers, and creating new opportunities for American exporters. I commend Bangladesh's Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin for his constructive engagement to achieve a more balanced and reciprocal trading relationship." Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said the agreement represents a "historically new level" in bilateral economic ties. A statement by the Bangladesh Chief Adviser of the Interim Government said, "After the signing, Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, who led the Bangladesh side in negotiations, said that the agreement marked a historically new level in our bilateral economic and trade relations. "It will provide substantially enhanced access of Bangladesh and the US to each other's respective markets", he said." The statement further said, the US will further reduce the reciprocal tariff to 19%, which was originally set at 37% and later reduced to 20% in August last year. In addition, the US committed to establishing a mechanism for certain textile and apparel goods from Bangladesh using US produced cotton and man-made fiber to receive zero reciprocal tariff in US market. "The reduction of reciprocal tariff will grant further advantage to our exporters, while zero reciprocal tariff on specific textile and apparel exports from Bangladesh using US inputs will give substantial added impetus to our garments sector", said NSA Rahman who was Bangladesh's chief negotiator. The agreement was approved by the Council of Advisers on Monday and will be operational once notifications are issued by the two sides. Present during the signing were Commerce Secretary of Bangladesh Mahbubur Rahman, and Assistant US Trade Representative, Brendan Lynch. - ANI Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a letter to students with three crucial messages ahead of board examinations. He warned against the dangers of banned Chinese kite strings and cautioned about mobile phone addiction impacting studies and health. The CM advised exam-takers to remain disciplined and focused, quoting the Bhagavad Gita on the importance of dedicated action. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' interaction where he encouraged students to dream big and read biographies for inspiration. UP CM Yogi Adityanath advises students on safety, avoiding phone addiction, and exam focus. Includes PM Modi's Pariksha Pe Charcha insights. Lucknow, February 9 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday urged students to prioritise safety, health, and academic focus ahead of the upcoming board examinations. In a letter to students, the Chief Minister shared three key messages. The Chief Minister advised them to stay away from Chinese 'manjha' (string), which is sharp-edged, banned across the state, and has caused fatalities. Students were asked to avoid using it, warn friends, and report any illegal sales to the police with family support. The Chief Minister also cautioned against mobile phone addiction, highlighting that excessive gaming or video-watching wastes time, affects studies, and weakens eyesight. He encouraged students to read, play sports, spend time with family, and limit mobile use. For those giving board exams for classes X and XII, the CM advised students to remain disciplined, confident, and focused. Citing the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, he said, "A person has the right only over their actions, not their results," urging students to prioritise hard work and dedication. The CM Yogi extended his best wishes to all students appearing in examinations and expressed hope that they would perform well and make their families and the state proud. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with students during the 9th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC). The Prime Minister had an informal interaction with Exam Warriors at his residence in New Delhi. A student from Ladakh asked whether children should dream big and how to begin fulfilling those dreams. The Prime Minister stated that not dreaming is a crime, but dreams must be backed by action. The PM explained that aspirations like becoming an astronaut require study, biographies, and focused interest, while cautioning against making dreams public to avoid ridicule. He encouraged students to write down their dreams and nurture them privately, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Responding to another query on daily habits to achieve big dreams, PM Modi suggested reading biographies of great personalities. He explained that understanding their struggles and early steps helps students relate and gain confidence, showing them how to progress step by step. The next episode is set to be aried today at 10 AM. - ANI Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan called on Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in New Delhi, discussing ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation across sectors like maritime security and renewable energy. The meeting coincided with the two nations marking 50 years of diplomatic relations and Seychelles' 50th year of independence. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held comprehensive talks with President Herminie, reaffirming their special maritime partnership and announcing a new Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security (SESEL). Several Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged in fields including health, digital technology, and ocean science. VP Radhakrishnan meets Seychelles President Herminie, discusses maritime security, renewable energy. PM Modi holds talks, nations mark 50 years of relations. New Delhi, Feb 9 Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, called on Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, in New Delhi on Monday with the two leaders exploring avenues to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors. According to the Vice President's Secretariat, during the meeting, the two leaders discussed key aspects of India-Seychelles bilateral relations and noted that the two countries are marking 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations. "They explored avenues to further strengthen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including maritime security, renewable energy, the medical sector, higher education, hospitality, and digitalisation. The Vice-President fondly recalled his visit to Seychelles in October last year, when he attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Herminie. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region," the statement added. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Seychelles President - on a State Visit to India from February 5-10 - held comprehensive and productive discussions covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations. PM Modi congratulated Herminie for his success in the elections held in October 2025 as the two leaders reaffirmed that India and Seychelles, as close maritime neighbours, enjoy a special and time-tested partnership built on ties of history and kinship, and nurtured by the shared values of democracy and pluralism. Both leaders also acknowledged that Seychelles-India ties are people-centric and reinforce security and stability in the Western Indian Ocean Region. They reaffirmed Seychelles' role as an important pillar in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). Underlining the respective strengths of both nations and recognising the importance of the relationship, the two leaders announced a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL). According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Herminie's State Visit coming around 100 days after his inauguration signals the shared commitment of India and Seychelles to strengthen, expand and deepen our longstanding and multifaceted bilateral partnership. It also adds significance as it coincides with the 50th year of Independence of Seychelles, and the 50th year of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Herminie underlined India's role as a trusted partner for Seychelles and the region and expressed gratitude to New Delhi for the longstanding assistance and cooperation extended to Seychelles in achieving its development agenda. Both sides also exchanged several MoUs in the fields of health, digital, meteorology, culture, ocean science, food and governance. - IANS Vice President CP Radhakrishnan met with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during his state visit to India, reviewing bilateral ties on their 50th anniversary. The leaders adopted a Joint Vision (SESEL) and signed multiple agreements covering health, maritime cooperation, and digital transformation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special economic package of USD 175 million for Seychelles, comprising credit and grant assistance. The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment to peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region. India reaffirms partnership with Seychelles, signs MoUs and announces a $175M economic package during President Herminie's state visit. New Delhi, February 9 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Monday called on Seychelles President Patrick Herminie during the latter's state visit to the country and reaffirmed the shared vision of both countries for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region. During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed key aspects of India-Seychelles bilateral relations and noted that both countries are marking 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations. They discussed ways to further strengthen cross-sector cooperation, including in maritime security, renewable energy, healthcare, higher education, hospitality, and digitalisation. "Today called on H.E. Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, in New Delhi. We discussed key aspects of India-Seychelles bilateral relations and noted that the two countries are marking 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations and also explored avenues to further strengthen cooperation, including in the areas of maritime security, renewable energy, the medical sector, higher education, hospitality and digitalisation," the Vice President said in a post on X. VP Radhakrishnan also fondly recalled his visit to Seychelles in October last year, when he attended President Herminie's swearing-in ceremony, and reaffirmed India's commitment to deepening ties with the island nation. "I also fondly recalled my visit to Seychelles in October last year, when I attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Herminie and reaffirmed our shared vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region," his post added. Earlier today, India and Seychelles adopted a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL) and announced and signed a series of key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements covering health, maritime cooperation, digital transformation, capacity-building and cultural exchange. The agreements were signed during President Herminie's state visit to India, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to the statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi and President Herminie held comprehensive discussions on the full spectrum of bilateral relations today, during which both leaders reaffirmed that as close maritime neighbours, both nations share a special and time-tested partnership rooted in history, kinship and shared democratic values. The Prime Minister also congratulated President Herminie on his victory in the October 2025 elections. His visit is scheduled for around 100 days after Herminie's inauguration in the island nation and coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. As part of the visit, seven MoUs were signed, and several major announcements were also made. PM Modi also announced a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million for Seychelles, comprising USD 125 million in a rupee-denominated Line of Credit (LOC) and USD 50 million in grant assistance, the MEA stated. - ANI An independent study by the V.V. Giri National Labour Institute indicates widespread positivity among workers and employers regarding the implementation of India's Labour Codes. The survey reveals that a majority of workers believe the codes will improve working conditions, wage security, and social safety nets, particularly for women and migrant workers. Employers strongly support the reforms for providing regulatory clarity, operational flexibility, and simplifying long-term compliance. The government views these findings as validation of the codes' design and remains committed to their phased implementation across states. VV Giri Institute survey reveals workers and employers see Labour Codes improving working conditions, social security, and business ease. New Delhi, February 9 An independent perception-based study conducted by the V.V. Giri National Labour Institute, Noida, reflects deepening trust and widespread positivity among workers and employers in the implementation of the Labour Codes. As per the Ministry of Labour & Employment," The study, titled 'The Implementation of Labour Codes, Perception-based Analysis,' indicates broad acceptance and convergence of views across stakeholders. It presents the Labour Codes as a credible reform framework that balances labour protection with economic efficiency, institutional logic, and stakeholder acceptance. "The survey findings suggest that workers and employers perceive the Labour Codes as contributing to improved ease of living and ease of doing business, strengthened social security, modernised labour relations, and simpler, more streamlined compliance systems," the Ministry added. Ministry further added that the assessment by VVGNLI focused on the initial phase of implementation of the Labour Codes, recognising that the Codes constitute a structural reform whose outcomes are progressive and unfold over time. Key highlights of the VVGNLI study for the purposes of the study, workers' perceptions were captured through one-on-one interviews and focused group discussions. Employers' perspectives were drawn from leading chambers of commerce, employer federations, and industry associations, representing large industrial groups, MSMEs, and small enterprises. The Ministry said that the objective of the survey-based study was to assess awareness and understanding of the Labour Codes and their enforcement mechanisms among workers and employers. The study reveals a broadly positive outlook among workers regarding the transformative potential of the Labour Codes. Around 60% of workers believe overall working conditions will improve, with 63% expecting better regulation of working hours and 60% anticipating enhanced rest periods and leave practices. About 66% of workers believe that safety, transport, and monitoring requirements will improve protection for women workers, while 63% feel that mandatory safety equipment and protective measures will strengthen workplace conditions."Ministry of Labour & Employment Ministry added that Nearly 64% of workers foresee improved income security through wage transparency and timely payments, while 54% expect better wage payment timeliness. On social security, 68% of workers welcome e-Shram and Welfare Boards for easier access, and 63% see greater portability for contract, migrant, and gig workers. These findings reflect growing confidence among workers in the Labour Codes' ability to improve workplace standards and social protection. Ministry added that Employers have expressed strong support for the Labour Codes, particularly with regard to regulatory clarity, flexibility, and operational efficiency. Employers prioritise workforce flexibility, with 76% viewing it as vital for sustainability. About 64% consider fixed-term employment suitable for their business models, and 64% expect timely wage rules to promote discipline. "Strong backing exists for digital tools (71%) and uniform state implementation (73%). Nearly 75% favour a phased rollout, while 74% support a facilitative enforcement model. Around 73% predict long-term compliance simplification. About 62% agree that social security coverage for workers will expand. Nearly 73% believe that the Labour Codes will simplify compliance requirements. Government's Commitment to Sustained Labour Reforms," the Ministry said in a statement. The Ministry of Labour & Employment views these findings as validation of the progressive and consultative design of the Labour Codes, enacted during 2019-2020 and notified nationwide on 21st November 2025. Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, stated, "These findings underscore the Labour Codes' objective of promoting social security for all, decent work, formalisation, and inclusive and sustainable growth in India's diverse labour market." "The Government remains committed to strengthening implementation through capacity building, awareness campaigns, and phased state-level roll-out, ensuring that the benefits of the Labour Codes continue to reach workers and employers across the country," the Minister added. - ANI The Supreme Court has extended the deadline for publishing West Bengal's final electoral roll by one week to allow officials more time for scrutiny. The court issued a show-cause notice to the state's Director General of Police over allegations of violence during the Special Intensive Revision process. It also directed the state government to submit a list of over 8,500 officers who could assist the Election Commission in the voter list exercise. The hearing addressed concerns about the potential mass deletion of voters' names due to minor spelling discrepancies and the role of external micro-observers. Supreme Court extends West Bengal's final voter list publication by a week and issues show-cause notice to DGP over alleged SIR violence. Get details. New Delhi, February 9 The Supreme Court on Monday extended by one week the deadline for publication of the final electoral roll under the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision exercise in West Bengal, while also issuing a show-cause notice to the Director General of Police, West Bengal, over allegations of violence during the revision process. The final electoral roll, which was earlier scheduled to be published on February 14, will now be released after the extended timeline. A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the extension was necessary as Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) required additional time to scrutinise documents and take appropriate decisions. The Court also took serious note of allegations of violence during the SIR process and issued a show-cause notice to the Director General of Police (DGP), West Bengal, directing him to explain the steps taken to maintain law and order in the State. "To streamline the ongoing SIR exercise and address apprehensions raised by various stakeholders, we deem it appropriate to issue some additional directions (noting that omit had on the earlier hearing as well issued certain directions)", it noted. The Court directed the West Bengal government to submit, by 5 pm on Tuesday, a list of 8,505 officers proposed to be deputed by the State. It granted discretion to the ECI to replace EROs and AEROs and to utilise the services of these officers, if required. "From these officers, the ECI may, after a brief scrutiny of their biodata, shortlist personnel equivalent to the strength of the micro-observers already engaged and provide them brief training to assist the EROs, AEROs and micro-observers," the Court noted. The Court clarified that these officers would only assist in the process and that "the final decision shall rest solely with the EROs. Noting allegations raised in the ECI's counter-affidavit that, despite complaints, no action was taken against persons allegedly burning Form-7 (objection forms) and other materials, the Court issued a show-cause notice to the DGP. The Court said it would take a final call on the extent of the ECI's powers in this regard after receiving the response from the police chief. During the hearing, Senior Advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, submitted that out of 7.08 crore voters in the draft list, 6.75 crore were mapped, while 32 lakh remained unmapped. He further stated that even among the mapped voters, about 1.36 crore names were placed in the Logical Discrepancy list due to "minor spelling and dialectal variations such as Dutta-Datta and Roy-Ray." Divan also informed the Court that the State had deputed over 8,500 Group-B officers and assured that "they can report to the EROs immediately." Senior Advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the West Bengal government, argued that while the State had offered assistance, the ECI instead engaged "micro-observers from outside Bengal" who were unfamiliar with the State's language and administrative setup. He contended that the ECI "never sought deputation of Group-B officers" earlier and that trained State officials were unjustifiably sidelined. Divan also argued that the manner in which micro-observers were functioning could potentially result in the large-scale deletion of voters' names. Responding to this, the Chief Justice observed that micro-observers were meant only to assist EROs and AEROs and not to take independent decisions. After hearing all parties, the Supreme Court issued the above directions. The Supreme Court was hearing a batch of pleas filed by various petitioners, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging irregularities in the SIR exercise carried out by the ECI in West Bengal. Banerjee has alleged that voters' names were placed on the Logical Discrepancy list due to minor dialectal spelling differences and that objection notices were issued without reasons. Earlier, Banerjee had appeared in person before the Court and submitted that the State was being selectively targeted by the ECI to delete voters rather than to include them or correct errors. After hearing her submissions, the Court had sought a response from the ECI. - ANI BJP corporator Ritu Tawde is set to take charge as the Mayor of Mumbai on February 11 after being elected unopposed. She stated she would function as a 'sevak' or servant of the city rather than its Mayor, emphasizing a service-oriented approach. Her remarks follow the BMC election results where the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats. The Mahayuti alliance, including the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), secured a mandate against the opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress. BJP's Ritu Tawde elected Mumbai Mayor unopposed, vows to work as a 'sevak' for the city. BMC poll results show BJP as single largest party. Mumbai, February 9 Newly-elected Mumbai Mayor and BJP corporator Ritu Tawde said she would function as a "sevak" of the city rather than as its Mayor after taking charge on February 11. Speaking to ANI here on Monday, Tawde said she was grateful to the people for giving a clear mandate to the Mahayuti alliance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. "I am very happy that the people of Mumbai have given a good mandate to Mahayuti. The BJP has been working continuously among the people since COVID. I have been elected unopposed and will take charge on February 11. After assuming office, I will work as the sevak of Mumbai, not as its Mayor," she said. Her remarks come after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the BMC polls, the results of which were declared on January 16. According to official figures released by the Election Commission and the BMC, the BJP won 89 seats, polling 11,79,273 votes, which accounts for 21.58 per cent of the total votes cast. Among all winning candidates, the BJP's vote share stands at 45.22 per cent, making it the single largest party in the civic body. Its alliance partner, the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), secured 29 seats with 2,73,326 votes, translating into 5.00 per cent of the total vote share. On the other side, the Shiv Sena (UBT), contesting in alliance with the MNS, won 65 seats. The UBT-led Sena polled 7,17,736 votes, accounting for 13.13 per cent of the total votes cast. The MNS added 6 seats to the alliance tally, with 74,946 votes and a 1.37 per cent vote share. The Indian National Congress (INC) secured 24 seats, polling 2,42,646 votes, which represents 4.44 per cent of the total vote share. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi led birthday wishes for Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, commending his tireless work for the state's development. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also sent greetings, highlighting Shinde's service and welfare initiatives. The messages recall Shinde's political roots with Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and his mentor Anand Dighe. Shinde's political journey, from auto-rickshaw driver to a key figure who led the 2022 Shiv Sena revolt, is a central part of his public profile. PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Yogi Adityanath extend birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, lauding his development work. New Delhi, Feb 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended birthday greetings to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, praising his efforts and noting that he is working tirelessly to advance the state's development. The Prime Minister took to the social media platform X to convey his greetings and recalled Shinde's association with Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and late leader Anand Dighe. "Birthday wishes to Shri Eknath Shinde Ji. He is working tirelessly towards furthering Maharashtra's development and realising the dreams of Pujya Balasaheb Thackeray and Dharamveer Anand Dighe. Praying for his long life and good health," PM Modi posted. Several senior leaders also greeted Dy CM Shinde on his birthday, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Amit Shah, in his message, highlighted Shinde's work for public welfare and the development of Maharashtra. "Heartiest birthday wishes to Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Eknath Shinde. You are continuously doing commendable work towards the development of the state and public welfare. May Ganpati Bappa grant you good health and long life," Amit Shah said. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also wished the Maharashtra leader, calling him a popular politician and praying for his well-being. "Happy Birthday to the popular politician, Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde ji. I pray to Lord Siddhivinayak ji for your good health, long and glorious life," he said. Eknath Shinde was born on February 9, 1964, in Dare village in Maharashtra's Satara district. He was born into a Maratha family. Later, his family moved to Thane, a city on the outskirts of Mumbai, where he grew up. Shinde attended Mangala High School and Junior College in Thane, where he studied up to Class 11. He reportedly left school early to support his family financially. Before entering politics, he worked as an auto-rickshaw driver. He later resumed his studies in 2014. In 2020, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University. Shinde's political journey began in the early 1980s, when he was introduced to politics by Anand Dighe, the then Shiv Sena president in Thane. In his early years, Shinde led several Shiv Sena agitations in the Wagle Estate area and emerged as a prominent labour leader. In 1984, he was appointed as a Sakha Pramukh in Thane, a key organisational role in the party. His influence in local politics grew steadily, and he later entered municipal politics. In 1997, he was elected as a corporator in the Thane Municipal Corporation. In 2001, he was appointed as the Leader of the House in the civic body. After Anand Dighe died in 2001, Shinde emerged as the political heir to his legacy in Thane and gradually strengthened his base. His success in local politics eventually paved the way for his entry into the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Shinde was first elected as an MLA in 2004. A year later, he was appointed as the Shiv Sena's Thane district head. Over the years, Shinde's political influence continued to rise, and he was re-elected to the Assembly in 2009, 2014, and 2019. During his tenure as a legislator, Shinde held several important positions in the Maharashtra government. From 2014 to 2019, he served as Minister for Public Works (Public Undertakings). He was also appointed as the Guardian Minister of Thane district during the same period. In 2018, he was made the Leader of the Shiv Sena in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. In 2019, he was appointed as Minister for Public Health and Family Welfare. Later in 2019, he also held additional portfolios, including Urban Development and Public Works, and served as the acting Minister of Home Affairs for a brief period. During his time as a minister, especially during Devendra Fadnavis' first term as Chief Minister, Shinde is believed to have built closer ties with the BJP leader. In 2022, Shinde led a revolt within the Shiv Sena, which eventually resulted in a split in the party. He pushed for a breakup of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance and a re-establishment of ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Shinde cited ideological differences and dissatisfaction with the Congress and NCP's treatment of the Shiv Sena. His grievances were reportedly shared by many within the party, and he managed to gather the support of more than two-thirds of the Shiv Sena MLAs. In June 2022, Shinde and several MLAs moved to Surat in Gujarat, triggering a major political crisis in Maharashtra. The crisis ultimately led to the resignation of then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Soon after, Shinde formed a new government with the BJP. He was sworn in as the 20th Chief Minister of Maharashtra in June 2022, with Devendra Fadnavis taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister. After assuming the Chief Minister's post, Shinde staked claim to the Shiv Sena party name and symbols, leading to a prolonged dispute with the Uddhav Thackeray faction. The matter went to court, and later the Election Commission of India recognised Shinde's faction as the official Shiv Sena. The Election Commission also criticised the amendments made to the party's constitution under Uddhav Thackeray in 2018, describing them as undemocratic and excessively centralised. Under Shinde's leadership, the Shiv Sena won seven seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2024, Shinde took oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister under the Devendra Fadnavis-led government. - IANS Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, praising Japan's principled support for Ukraine and its role in saving lives during the war. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended congratulations, emphasizing the close friendship between Australia and Japan and a desire to deepen ties. Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party secured a historic two-thirds majority in Japan's House of Representatives, a sharp increase from its pre-election standing. This decisive mandate strengthens her position and allows the ruling coalition to pursue constitutional revisions. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and Australia's PM Albanese congratulate Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi after her party's historic election win. Tokyo, February 9 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the Liberal Democratic Party's victory in the elections to Japan's House of Representatives. In a post on X, Zelenskyy congratulated Takaichi on what he described as an important electoral win. "This is an important victory and an excellent result. Today, we all need strong leadership so that the world can return to stability and predictability - and, ultimately, to peace," he said. Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for Japan's support to Ukraine, stating, "We value the fact that Japan is among those who provide principled support for the protection of our people, our lives, and Ukraine's independence." He added that assistance from Japan has helped save "thousands upon thousands of lives" during Russia's war against Ukraine and noted Japan's participation in the Coalition of the Willing and its support in restoring Ukraine's energy sector. "We hope that together we can deliver even more results in the interests of our peoples," he said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended his congratulations in a post on X, saying, "Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your election win." Highlighting the close relationship between the two countries, Albanese said, "Australia and Japan's friendship has never been closer. I look forward to strengthening it and deepening ties between our countries." Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. - ANI Expanded physician-led air ambulance services are improving access to advanced prehospital care across the UK, yet important regional and overnight gaps highlight ongoing challenges in delivering equitable lifesaving treatment. Study: Access to physician-based Helicopter Emergency Medical Services in the UK: a service analysis in 2024. Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala / Shutterstock In a recent study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal , researchers evaluated national access to physician-based Helicopter Emergency Medical Services ( HEMS ) in the United Kingdom and assessed how availability and advanced interventions vary across regions and time. Background When a person suffers severe trauma or sudden critical illness, minutes can mean the difference between life and death. In the United Kingdom, advanced lifesaving interventions, such as prehospital emergency anesthesia, can be delivered only by physician-based prehospital teams; however, access to this level of care is often inconsistent across regions. A national review in 2009 revealed that round-the-clock physician-led HEMS services were extremely rare. Since then, trauma networks, training pathways, and service delivery models have evolved substantially. This raises a critical question: has access to physician-based prehospital care improved for patients regardless of where or when emergencies occur? Evaluating whether progress has translated into equitable and reliable national coverage remains essential. About the Study A national service analysis was conducted using an online survey distributed to all HEMS services operating across the United Kingdom. The survey was circulated between January and March 2024 to medical and operational leads within each service. One response per service was permitted, with follow-up clarification obtained where discrepancies arose. Participation was voluntary and uncompensated. For classification purposes, a physician-based HEMS team was defined as one in which a physician was present on more than 95 percent of operational shifts. Teams that did not meet this threshold were included in overall service counts but excluded from analyses of advanced prehospital care capability. Data collected included funding structures, staffing models, dispatch operations, working hours, and the range of interventions provided. To enable regional comparisons, respondents reported service availability at standardized weekday and weekend time points during both daytime and overnight hours. Population density data were used as a proxy for clinical demand, based on publicly available national statistics. Primary outcomes focused on the number and operational coverage of physician-based teams, while secondary outcomes examined intervention availability and the presence of additional prehospital critical care resources. Study Results All 21 HEMS services operating in the United Kingdom responded to the survey, providing complete national coverage. The analysis estimated an increase from 11 physician-based teams in 2009 to approximately 30 teams in 2024, representing a roughly 2.7-fold increase, including services in Scotland. This reflects a substantial expansion in potential access to advanced prehospital care. Despite this progress, round-the-clock availability remained uneven. In 2024, approximately half of the services provided continuous 24-hour physician-based coverage. This marked an improvement from 2009, when only one service operated at this level, yet significant regional gaps persisted. The East of England demonstrated the highest overnight availability, while Northern Ireland, South West England, and parts of Northern England lacked consistent overnight physician coverage. Some services ceased operations in the early evening, whereas others remained active into the early morning. Not all services routinely operated aircraft overnight; some relied instead on ground-based response vehicles. Population-adjusted access also varied significantly. Nationally, the ratio was approximately 0.63 HEMS teams per million people, including all teams, not only physician-based units. Availability tended to be higher in less densely populated regions and lower in major urban centers such as London. These disparities highlight how geography, population distribution, service configuration, and dispatch practices shape real-world access. All physician-based teams were capable of delivering advanced Level 3 prehospital interventions, including prehospital emergency anesthesia, surgical airways, thoracostomies, amputations, resuscitative thoracotomies, and resuscitative hysterotomies. However, the availability of other advanced procedures varied. Most teams carried blood products; many provided regional anesthesia and arterial line placement; fewer offered dried plasma; and only one service reported the capability to perform resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta. Beyond HEMS , all regions reported access to additional prehospital critical care assets. These included paramedic-led teams capable of delivering intermediate-level interventions and volunteer physician responders affiliated with the British Association for Immediate Care. Funding models differed substantially, with most services relying partly or entirely on charitable funding, whereas only one service was fully supported by government funding. The study did not directly test causal links between funding structure and service availability. Conclusions Access to physician-based HEMS in the United Kingdom has improved markedly over the past decade, with more teams and greater overnight coverage than previously reported. Nevertheless, access to advanced prehospital care continues to depend strongly on geography and time of day. Persistent variation in operating hours, intervention availability, and funding models raises concerns about equity of access. Given evidence suggesting potential survival benefits in some contexts, alongside acknowledged uncertainty, these findings highlight the need for coordinated national policy, sustainable funding mechanisms, and system-wide planning to ensure that advanced prehospital critical care is available to all patients who need it, regardless of location or timing. The authors note that this survey alone cannot fully characterize access to all prehospital critical care resources nationwide. Legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational use may lead to a decline in daily opioid use among people who inject drugs in the United States, according to a new study led by a Boston University School of Public Health researcher (BUSPH). Published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, the study found that US states that legalized marijuana for medical and adult recreational use saw a 9-to-11-percentage-point decline in daily opioid use among this population, compared to states that legalized marijuana for medical use only. While the harms and benefits of cannabis use and cannabis reform continue to be debated on the national stage, these findings highlight one major potential advantage of widespread access to marijuana: this increased access may enable people to substitute their use of the unstable and toxic opioid supply with comparatively safer cannabis and, thus, lower their chances of experiencing opioid-related harms or dying from an overdose. In the US, opioids contribute to more than 75 percent of fatal drug overdoses. The study was published on the heels of a significant shift in US drug policy that will indeed lower restrictions on cannabis. Last December, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to downgrade cannabis from a Schedule 1 classification (assigned to drugs such as heroin and ecstasy) to a Schedule 3 classification, which refers to drugs that pose minimal to moderate risk of physical or psychological dependence. Nearly all US states and Washington, DC have legalized cannabis for medical use, while 48 percent of states allow cannabis for adult recreational use. People who inject drugs are part of a population that is at the epicenter of the opioid crisis in America, and they stand to benefit the most from policies that increase access to cannabis. By focusing on this group, the study builds upon past research on cannabis use and opioid mortality that has primarily examined the general population-which has a lower risk of experiencing opioid-related harms-with mixed results. The magnitude of decrease in opioid use that we observed among a population that is experienced with opioid use and likely to experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms after reducing this use is very profound and important." Dr. Danielle Haley, study lead and corresponding author, assistant professor of community health sciences at BUSPH The takeaway, she says, is that creating a safe and regulated supply of a substance is a valuable overdose prevention tactic because it can reduce use of non-regulated and more dangerous substances. "Legalized cannabis tends to be higher quality and more potent. As these products become more available and cheaper, people might be able to reduce their opioid use even without increasing how often they use cannabis." For the study, Dr. Haley and colleagues utilized data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National HIV Behavioral Surveillance, including self-reported use of cannabis and non-medical opioid use among within the last 12 months among nearly 29,000 people who inject drugs, comparing data from states that did not legalize cannabis, legalized it for medical use only, or legalized it for both medical and adult recreational use. The data spanned 13 states in four waves: 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2022. The decline in opioid use was equivalent across all racial and ethnic groups, as well as among males and females. "This study adds to a growing body of evidence that sensible changes to our outdated drug policies can have a positive health impact, especially among some of our most vulnerable neighbors," says study coauthor Dr. Leo Beletsky, professor of law and health sciences at Northeastern University. The team did not observe overall links between cannabis legalization and daily cannabis use, but cannabis use did increase by five percentage points among White participants living in states that transitioned from no legalization to legalizing cannabis for medical use only. This increase among White participants could reflect long-standing racial inequities in healthcare that make it easier for White people to navigate health systems and services than people of other races, the researchers say. Understanding how policies related to substance use benefit the health of people who use drugs is essential for effective cannabis reform. "What this study shows is the potential impact of decriminalization paired with access to a regulated supply," says Stephen Murray, adjunct clinical assistant professor of community health sciences at BUSPH, who is also an overdose survivor and former paramedic with expertise in overdose prevention. Murray was not involved in the study. "When legal barriers are removed and people have safer alternatives available, we see meaningful reductions in daily opioid use-even among people with long histories of injection drug use. That's a powerful signal." But the findings also serve as a reminder that the design and implementation of these policies matter, he says. "Commercialized access to cannabis does not benefit all communities equally, and without intentional equity-focused policy, longstanding racial disparities in healthcare access and criminalization can persist even under legalization." The researchers say future research should further investigate links between legal medical and recreational cannabis and reduced opioid use, as well consider benefits in other areas, such as a reduction in cases of blood-borne infections through injection. The study's senior author is Dr. Hannah Cooper, Rollins Chair of Substance Use Disorders Research and professor of behavioral, social, and health education sciences at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health. A new digital resource co-created by University of Victoria (UVic) researchers and trauma survivors will streamline access to resources and tools for clinicians who support people with complex post-traumatic stress at Island Health in B.C. and other jurisdictions. To enhance trauma-informed health care for people experiencing complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), an online site has been built to provide the information and tools professionals need to respond to emerging patient care needs. Using multimedia including videos, handouts and quizzes, the tool provides information on C-PTSD, how it affects people mentally and physically, and how to provide trauma-informed care. Colette Smart, UVic psychologist and Island Health research scholar in residence for mental health and substance use, co-developed the digital tool to help educate health-care providers about the unique needs of individuals who have C-PTSD, particularly within the context of close relationships, which is referred to as complex relational trauma. Most people are familiar with classic PTSD, which results typically from a singular, isolated event. Fewer people are aware of C-PTSD, which arises when trauma is prolonged, repeated and inescapable, and is more common than people realize. Survivors of C-PTSD often experience long-term mental and physical health challenges, but we know from hearing from them directly that the care they receive could be enhanced through more trauma-informed approaches." Colette Smart, UVic psychologist The idea for the tool originated with Lori Herod, a retired professor of adult education, complex relational trauma survivor and founder of Out of the Storm, an online educational platform and community with 14,000 members from more than 87 countries. From the site's inception in 2014, survivors have expressed they struggled to find mental and physical health-care providers who understood effective C-PTSD treatment. "Daily living can be very difficult. A lot of us put a mask on, but many can't even do that. You see that in homelessness, addiction. C-PTSD is definitely a public health issue, if not a crisis," Herod says. "There are a lot of health-care inequities, but I'm hoping survivors come out and tell health-care providers what's needed. It's not that the professionals don't care, it's that they don't know." Herod understood a guide for health-care professionals and institutions was needed and wanted to ensure it was based on research and the lived experiences of survivors seeking treatment, services and support within health care. During an International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies meeting in 2024, Herod connected with Smart, who could see Herod's vision for a patient-led resource to support local health-care practitioners. Together they convened a team of clinicians, researchers and survivors, conducted a research study and developed the Complex Relational Trauma and Complex PTSD: Closing the Gap in Healthcare digital resource. Survivors' voices were centred at every step of the tool's development. Not only did this innovative approach align with best practices, the patient-oriented research aligns with needs of survivors who were seeking the changes themselves. Smart co-created the resource as part of her work with the Island Health Research Scholar in Residence Program, funded by Island Health, which supports research, enables knowledge translation, establishes partnerships and secures funding to support adults with lived experience of serious and persistent mental illness. As a learning organization, Island Health is committed to improving knowledge, information and tools that help our clinical care teams strengthen effective, empathic and outcome-oriented care to the patients we serve. Partnerships and collaboration with educational institutions for research are instrumental in advancing how frontline care is delivered." Dr. Nelson Collins, South Island Division Head, Mental Health and Substance Use, Island Health The Complex Relational Trauma and Complex PTSD: Closing the Gap in Healthcare digital resource is available online and is being rolled out to Island Health primary care networks. So far, the resource has been disseminated to 47 institutions and professional associations in BC, Canada and the United States, and Smart and Herod are investigating options for promotion in health sectors and beyond. Panic attacks are sudden bouts of intense fear without an obvious cause. An estimated 10% of people experience at least one panic attack in their lifetime. But between 2% and 3% of the population have such frequent and severe panic attacks that they meet the criteria for the debilitating condition 'panic disorder'. The current standard of care for panic disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), with or without antidepressants. A technique of CBT with proven efficacy is 'interoceptive exposure', where therapists trigger common symptoms of panic attacks like chest pain, sweating, rapid respiration, and a racing heart in a safe, controlled environment. Its aim is to raise tolerance to these symptoms by teaching patients that they aren't dangerous. Typically, interoceptive exposure works through office-based exercises such as voluntary hyperventilation or spinning on a chair. But now, researchers have shown that a less artificial and more intense form of interoceptive exposure brief intermittent intense exercise is more effective. The results are published in Frontiers in Psychiatry. Here we show that a 12-week program of brief intense intermittent exercise can be used as an interoceptive exposure strategy to treat panic disorder patients." Dr. Ricardo William Muotri, postdoctoral fellow at the Anxiety Disorders Program, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Brazil Trial runs In this randomized controlled trial, Muotri and colleagues compared the effect of brief, intense intermittent exercise with a form of relaxation therapy commonly used in CBT, in 102 adult women and men diagnosed with panic disorder over a period of 12 weeks. The participants were divided across two parallel arms and did three sessions every week of their allocated exercise. No drugs were administered to either group throughout the trial. Patients in the experimental arm began each session with a bout of muscle-stretching, followed by 15 minutes of walking and one to six 30-seconds-long bouts of high-intensity running alternating with 4.5-minutes of active recovery, and ending with additional 15 minutes of walking. Patients in the control arm did segmental muscle contraction exercises in the brachial, scapular, cervical, facial, dorsal, abdominal, and lower limb regions, followed by localized muscle relaxation. All patients wore biometric monitoring devices during the exercises. The primary endpoint was any change over a period of 24 weeks in a patient's score on the Panic and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS), which rates the severity of panic symptoms from answers to 13 questions in a questionnaire. Secondary endpoints were analogous changes in scores on questionnaires for anxiety and depression, as well as the self-reported frequency and severity of panic attacks. A psychiatrist, blinded to treatment allocation, assessed outcomes on the endpoints. Working out The average PAS score, as well as the scores for anxiety and depression, decreased over time in both arms, but more steeply in the brief intense intermittent exercise arm. Similarly, the frequency and severity of panic attacks decreased more in the brief intense intermittent exercise arm. The authors concluded that brief, intense intermittent exercise is a more effective method for interoceptive exposure than relaxation therapy for the treatment of panic disorder, with positive effects that last for at least 24 weeks. Because patients reported enjoying this method treatment more than relaxation therapy, engagement and compliance with the treatment are likely to be high. "Healthcare professionals can adopt brief intermittent intense exercise as a natural and low-cost interoceptive exposure strategy. It doesn't need to take place in a clinical setting, so that exposure to the symptoms of a panic attack is brought closer to the patient's daily life. It could also be integrated into care models for anxiety and depression disorders," summarized Muotri. A sweeping genetic analysis reveals when obesity is the common thread linking chronic diseases, and when other biology is to blame. Study: Genetics identifies obesity as a shared risk factor for co-occurring multiple long-term conditions. Image credit: MaskaRad/Shutterstock.com A recent study in Communications Medicine completed a genetic analysis to determine whether body mass index ( BMI ) affects the shared genetic risks for 71 common long-term health conditions, with a focus on multimorbidity rather than individual disease risk. The Challenge of Defining and Understanding Multimorbidity Multimorbidity means living with multiple chronic diseases simultaneously, which poses a growing challenge for public health systems worldwide. This condition may affect different populations in distinct ways, depending on age, gender, location, and socioeconomic status. Multimorbidity influences quality of life and substantially increases healthcare expenses. Inconsistent definitions of multimorbidity hinder researchers from quantifying this phenomenon. While scientists have developed frameworks for identifying chronic conditions and algorithms to detect patterns in disease clustering, these methods remain limited by their reliance on single data sources and varied analytical approaches. Few studies have investigated the underlying causes of multimorbidity, which increases health risks. It is imperative to identify risk factors for multimorbidity to prevent it. Observational studies have shown that lower socioeconomic status and obesity are associated with increased multimorbidity risk. However, confounding factors and reverse causation complicated the establishment of true causal relationships. Genetic analyses offer a solution by minimizing confounding, measurement error, and reverse causation. Previous research revealed widespread genetic correlations, with obesity showing strong genetic links to numerous conditions. These correlations arise from pleiotropy, when genes affect multiple traits through either direct causal pathways, vertical pleiotropy, or shared risk factors, horizontal pleiotropy, or often both. More research is required to understand the mechanisms behind these genetic correlations. Analyzing Genetic Overlap Across Diseases The current study developed a method to understand how obesity contributes to multimorbidity, using BMI as its primary measure. Researchers considered genetic data from 71 chronic diseases across 13 categories, including cardiovascular, diabetes, and respiratory diseases, from individuals of European ancestry. Data from UK Biobank, FinnGen, and disease-specific studies represent among the largest sample sizes to date for many of the conditions analysed. The current study combined results from the GIANT Consortium and the UK Biobank, yielding one of the most comprehensive datasets currently available for uncovering genetic correlations with BMI . The genetic covariance and correlation between two long-term conditions ( LTCs ) were determined. Mendelian Randomization analyses assessed whether BMI causally affects each disease on average across adulthood. For 23 diseases strongly influenced by BMI , the Bayesian method was used to isolate genetic effects independent of BMI pathways. Comparing these BMI -corrected correlations to standard correlations revealed whether BMI plays a direct causal role in disease co-occurrence or merely correlates with it. Genetic Analysis Revealed Obesitys Role in Multimorbidity Of 2,485 disease pairs analyzed, 1,362 exhibited significantly reduced genetic correlation after accounting for BMI genetics, affecting 64 of 71 conditions. Most pairs showed weaker correlations after controlling for BMI . For 860 disease pairs, representing roughly one-third of all pairs studied, body weight explained part of why these diseases occur together, but not all of it. This means that while obesity plays a role in linking these conditions, other biological mechanisms are also at work. The diseases most affected included heart and blood vessel disorders, skin conditions, and digestive system problems. BMI had the strongest influence on pairs involving cholelithiasis, carpal tunnel syndrome, gout, and chronic kidney disease, conditions also most strongly affected by BMI in causal analyses. In 161 pairs, 12b% of the genetic correlation was accounted for by BMI, leaving no residual genetic similarity. This finding indicates that body weight is a major shared contributor connecting these diseases, and without obesitys genetic influence, they would have little genetic overlap. Most circulatory diseases were found to be paired with conditions from other domains, particularly musculoskeletal disorders. For 33 pairs, BMI masked underlying genetic connections. Approximately 50 % of the cases involved osteoporosis, in which lower BMI increases risk, opposite to most other conditions, where higher BMI is harmful. It must be noted that, for 1,123 pairs, BMI did not play a significant role, indicating that other mechanisms drive their genetic similarity. A secondary analytical method, bGWAS, analyzing 246 disease pairs confirmed the findings, showing strong agreement with partial genetic correlations and validating that the observed patterns were not artifacts of the statistical approach. Among a subset of 15 disease pairs in which body weight fully explains their genetic co-occurrence, increased BMI directly increased the risk of developing each condition, demonstrating that obesity acts as a shared causal driver rather than merely being associated with these diseases. Reducing BMI by one standard deviation, approximately 4.5 BMI units, would prevent around 16 per 1,000 people from having both chronic kidney disease and osteoarthritis, and 9 per 1,000 from having both type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis. Waist-hip ratio ( WHR ) analysis yielded largely overlapping results, where 1,370 pairs showed significant differences, with 298 pairs uniquely affected by WHR , suggesting partially distinct obesity-related mechanisms beyond BMI alone. Conclusions The current study sheds light on the fact that body weight is a key reason why many people develop multiple chronic diseases in combination. Analysis of 71 conditions strongly indicated that BMI is a major shared genetic contributor between many disease pairs, although it does not explain all multimorbidity patterns. Given the study findings, weight-loss interventions could help reduce the prevalence of certain multimorbid disease pairs rather than multimorbidity overall. The authors also caution that BMI is a broad proxy for obesity-related biology, that genetic estimates reflect lifetime-averaged effects rather than short-term changes, and that results are specific to populations of European ancestry, highlighting the need for further research to clarify how different aspects of weight management prevent chronic disease across diverse populations. Download your PDF copy now! Large-scale Swedish data reveal a female catch-up effect in autism diagnoses, reshaping how scientists understand sex differences in when, not whether, autism is identified. Study: Time trends in the male to female ratio for autism incidence: population based, prospectively collected, birth cohort study. Image credit: Elenka Klimova/Shutterstock.com A new study published in The BMJ points out that females are more likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder later in life than males. Why girls autism symptoms are often missed early Autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by repetitive behaviors, verbal communication difficulties, socialization difficulties, and restrictive interests. The prevalence of this condition has increased significantly since the early 2000s. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) data, the prevalence of ASD among 8-year-old children in the United States has increased from 0.7 % in 2002 to 3.3 % in 2022. Over the past 30 years, the ratio of ASD diagnosis between males and females has mostly remained high, roughly at 4:1. Several theories have been put forward to explain this high male-to-female ratio for ASD diagnosis. Some theories indicate that females require a higher genetic burden than males for noticeable ASD -related behaviors, while others suggest that greater genetic variability in males may make them more likely to meet diagnostic thresholds for ASD . The possibility of underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of ASD in females may be higher than in males, as girls and women typically have better social and communication skills that make symptom identification difficult. This may also contribute to the high male-to-female ratio for ASD diagnosis in childhood among females. Despite several theories, direct population-level evidence explaining this imbalance has been largely absent. To fill this gap in the literature, researchers conducted a large-scale study in Sweden to examine temporal changes in ASD diagnosis rates among males and females over more than 35 years. Registers track autism across decades The research team used national registers to analyze ASD diagnosis rates among 2.76 million individuals born in Sweden between 1985 and 2020. Participants were followed up from birth to a maximum of 37 years, with follow-up extending to 2022. Female diagnosis rates catch up during adolescence The research team identified clinically diagnosed ASD in 2.8 % of participants over the 35-year follow-up period. The median age at diagnosis was 14.3 years. Notably, the team found a shift in the diagnosis pattern with age. Specifically, the analysis revealed that the ASD diagnosis rate increased steadily with each five-year age interval throughout childhood. About a 10-fold increase in the ASD diagnosis rate was observed between 2000 and 2022, reflecting changes across calendar periods and birth cohorts, as well as evolving diagnostic practices over time. Among males and females, the highest rates of diagnosis were observed in the 1014- and 1519-year age groups, respectively. The rates decreased afterwards for both males and females. During the study follow-up period, the research team observed that males were more likely to be diagnosed with ASD in childhood, while females were more likely to be diagnosed during adolescence. This pattern resulted in a declining male-to-female ratio with increasing age, reaching approximately 1.2 by age 20 years in 2022, with statistical modelling projecting a cumulative male-to-female ratio of around 1.0 by around 2024. A need for sex-sensitive diagnostic practices The study provides valuable evidence that may refine the long-held belief that autism is more common among males than females. According to the findings, the well-known high male-to-female ratio for ASD diagnosis in childhood could be partly explained by the fact that females are more likely to be misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed with the disorder at younger ages. However, the ratio decreases substantially with increasing age, such that it may no longer be distinguishable by adulthood in Sweden. The research team identifies a catch-up effect by the age of 20 years, when females are nearly as likely to have received an ASD diagnosis as males, based on cumulative incidence estimates and projections, suggesting a potentially similar lifetime rate of ASD diagnosis in both sexes within this population. Several factors have been proposed in previous research to explain lower rates of ASD diagnosis in females during childhood. Females may exhibit greater biological, genetic, and developmental resilience that could make them less susceptible to earlier clinical identification of neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD . Greater heritability has also been identified as a potential contributor to the higher prevalence of ASD in males. However, the study notes that higher heritability estimates in males may partly reflect non-genetic influences in females, including diagnostic ascertainment and differences in clinical presentation, rather than a strictly biological sex difference. Another potential reason is that females are better than males at taking behavioral prompts from their peers, such as mimicking speech or expressions, leading to camouflaging of ASD -related traits and the resulting delay in detecting ASD -like behaviors. The misattribution of symptoms to a previously identified psychiatric condition may also influence the age of ASD diagnosis and the variation in the male-to-female ratio by age at diagnosis. In this context, evidence indicates that almost 70 % of individuals with a diagnosis of ASD have at least one additional psychiatric condition and that women are more likely than men to have an earlier psychiatric diagnosis before an ASD diagnosis. These factors can potentially delay ASD diagnosis, especially in females. Overall, the study findings highlight the need for investigating why females are diagnosed with ASD later in life than males. Future research in this field should consider the influence of other conditions linked to ASD , diagnostic practices, changes in diagnostic criteria over time, as well as shared genetic and environmental factors like parental mental health, for a more conclusive interpretation. Download your PDF copy now! From powering artificial intelligence models to maintaining reproducibility across sites, modern laboratories are demanding more than precision alone: They require reliability, adaptability, and confidence in their data. Hal Wehrenberg Vice President of Digital Transformation. Image Credit: Tecan This is precisely where Tecan Trading envisions the future of automation. With nearly twenty years in the field, Hal Wehrenberg, Vice President of Digital Transformation at Tecan, has played a pivotal role in steering the evolution of lab automation from engineering-centric systems to researcher-focused solutions. According to him, What really matters is whether your team can understand the interface, adjust methods, troubleshoot issues, and keep things running without constantly relying on external support. This article examines how liquid handling automation is evolving to meet the demands of new scientific and operational requirements. Why do intuitive design, system adaptability, and user experience now hold equal importance to pipetting accuracy? The constant priority: Data quality and reproducibility Throughout Wehrenbergs two decades in automation, one principle has remained unwavering: data quality. Whether supporting clinical research or developing proprietary AI models, consistent and accurate data remain the foundation of every laboratorys success. Manual handling, Wehrenberg explains, inevitably introduces human error especially when working with miniaturized assays on 384- or 1536-well plates. By contrast, automation safeguards precision and ensures that todays assays are comparable to those performed last week or even last year. Scalability is equally important. Many researchers are generating increasing volumes of data each year, but human capacity has limits. Instruments that can operate continuously, across variable conditions, and without fatigue, enable throughput to expand exponentially while maintaining consistency. Rising complexity and the demand for smarter design The laboratory landscape has become more complex, with scientists now managing multiple instruments and digital systems simultaneously. In earlier years, automation was primarily within the domain of engineers. Today, researchers and technicians often operate as many as fourteen different software interfaces daily, ranging from automation control to LIMS, ELNs, and scheduling platforms. Researchers today often manage complex workflows across multiple platforms. Simpler interfaces help them get it right. Image Credit: Tecan Wehrenberg notes that this has shifted the focus of design. When the people pressing Go are provided with straightforward interfaces, it is not just about convenience. It ensures that processes are executed correctly and compliantly, he explains. Simplified design, therefore, directly contributes to reliability, safety, and data integrity. Usability: The cornerstone of effective automation For laboratories adopting automation for the first time, usability should be a primary consideration. According to Wehrenberg, teams must feel at home with their instruments. While technical specifications often attract the most attention, day-to-day operability is what defines long-term value. He advises laboratories to experience live demonstrations or, ideally, test the software themselves. If a vendor requires an expert to operate the system during a demo or discourages direct interaction, that may reveal more than specifications ever could. When automation isnt accessible, it becomes a bottleneck. Intuitive interfaces help research teams stay self-sufficient. Image Credit: Tecan The real value, he emphasizes, lies in whether a team can independently adjust methods, identify errors, and sustain operations with confidence. Designing interfaces that reduce cognitive load An effective user interface, Wehrenberg says, must serve multiple operators with varying levels of expertise. In many laboratories, several users share the same instrument, and new personnel are routinely trained. This makes clarity and simplicity essential. Tecans latest liquid handling system, Veya, exemplifies this philosophy. The system includes a distinct status light that provides instant visual feedback on instrument activity. Its OneView dashboard functions like a vehicles control panel, displaying system performance, recent runs, and maintenance schedules at a glance. The intuitive touchscreen guides users through methods in a clear, customizable, and visual format. OneView provides real-time visibility into instrument status, performance, and environment. Image Credit: Tecan Wehrenberg contrasts this with traditional SOP binders, which users often abandon after a few weeks. By embedding instructions directly within the interface, Veya reduces dependence on memory, minimizes error potential, and enhances reproducibility across users. Supporting compliance through thoughtful interaction design In regulated environments, even small interface choices can influence compliance and audit outcomes. One example within Veya is the confirmation mode on the touchscreen: the Next and Confirm buttons are placed separately, compelling users to pause and acknowledge each instruction before proceeding. Veya includes a wraparound status light and an intuitive touchscreen interface for guided operation. Image Credit: Tecan This design encourages deliberate interaction, whether confirming that a vacuum pump has been activated or samples have been scanned, and automatically records every step. Such logs create a complete trace of who performed each action and when, providing valuable transparency for both compliance audits and troubleshooting. Engineering consistency: Smarter hardware for variable conditions Hardware innovation plays an equally important role in maintaining accuracy across varying environments. Veya incorporates Air Restriction Pipetting (ARP) technology, which allows volumes from 1.0 l to 5.0 ml to be handled using a single arm without hardware changes, an uncommon capability in the market. Traditional systems often require separate modules for different volume ranges, increasing calibration points and potential error sources. In contrast, Veyas integrated sensors continuously monitor air pressure and temperature, automatically compensating for environmental fluctuations such as altitude or humidity. Complementing this is Pressure-Monitored Pipetting (PMP AI), a neural networkdriven system that monitors every aspiration, detects anomalies such as clots or blockages, and responds in real time. This ensures that errors are identified immediately rather than after an entire batch is compromised. Veyas smart pipetting combines ARP and PMP AI for precise, reliable liquid handling across volumes, conditions and sites. Image Credit: Tecan AI-driven data integrity: A new expectation As laboratories generate data to train AI-driven discovery models, the emphasis has shifted from mechanical precision to long-term data trust. The question is no longer whether we can pipette accurately, says Wehrenberg. It is whether we can rely on the data across time, across instruments, and across sites. Automation, in his view, is essential to maintaining this level of reproducibility. Beyond technical performance, instruments must facilitate structured, traceable data flow between systems enabling seamless input and output with AI models, analytical software, and other instruments within the workflow. Choosing the right platform: Flexibility and future-readiness When evaluating automation systems, laboratories should seek solutions that not only meet their current requirements but also scale with future needs. Tecans Veya Suites embody this philosophy by combining predefined scripts, optimized layouts, and adaptable configurations. Your needs may change. Veya is designed to evolve with them - flexible, adaptable and ready for whats next. Image Credit: Tecan Research environments evolve rapidly: new sequencing kits, assay formats, and workflows emerge regularly. Systems must therefore allow operators to modify protocols without waiting for vendor intervention. Compatibility with third-party devices, such as heaters or shakers, further ensures operational flexibility. Wehrenberg encourages decision-makers to consider their roadmap carefully: Some laboratories know exactly what they will run for the next decade, while others, especially in drug discovery, must stay agile. Choosing a one-purpose system limits your ability to adapt. The future of liquid handling: Integration over isolation Looking ahead, Wehrenberg believes that automations true value lies in integration rather than raw performance. Most modern assays already fall well within the technical capabilities of liquid handling systems, he notes. What matters now is how data flows, connects, and maintains integrity over time. As data increasingly underpins AI-driven innovation, its provenance and consistency are paramount. Automation platforms must therefore support interoperability, accommodate diverse users, and ensure that every result can be trusted. For Tecan, this focus on usability and digital integration is not new; it reflects the companys ongoing mission to build systems that empower scientists, streamline workflows, and advance the pursuit of reliable data. The future of automation will be shaped by the need for both quality and connectivity across end-to-end lab workflows. Image Credit: Tecan Veya: Tecans next-generation solution for liquid handling automation Image Credit: Tecan Developed for scientists seeking more from their automation systems, Veya offers: Effortless throughput: Run more samples with minimal manual intervention Consistent results: Reproducibility across users, sites, and time Smart simplicity: Intuitive touchscreen interface and customizable workflows Rapid setup: Veya Suites provides predefined scripts and optimized layouts Built-in intelligence: Real-time pipetting feedback and continuous process monitoring Future-ready integration: Seamless connection with existing systems and evolving protocols. From the first day of installation, Veya delivers the performance, usability, and adaptability that define effortless automation. About Hal Wehrenberg Hal Wehrenberg is the Vice President of Digital Transformation at Tecan Trading. With nearly two decades of experience in laboratory automation, his expertise spans service, product development, and strategic leadership. He has played a key role in the development of Tecans liquid handling software and now leads initiatives to integrate advanced digital technologies into Tecans life science and clinical laboratory solutions. About Tecan Tecan is a leading global provider of automated laboratory instruments and solutions. Its systems and components help people working in clinical diagnostics, basic and translational research, and drug discovery bring their science to life. In particular, the company develops, produces, markets, and supports automated workflow solutions that empower laboratories to achieve more. Its Cavro-branded instrument components are chosen by leading instrumentation suppliers across multiple disciplines. Tecan works side by side with a range of clients, including diagnostic laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and university research centers. Its expertise extends to developing and manufacturing OEM instruments and components, marketed by its partner companies. Whatever the project large or small, simple or complex helping its clients to achieve their goals comes first. The company holds a leading position in all the sectors it works in, and has changed the way things are done in research and development labs around the world. In diagnostics, for instance, it has raised the bar when it comes to the reproducibility and throughput of testing. In under four decades, Tecan has grown from a Swiss family business to a brand that is well established on the global stage of life sciences. From pioneering days on a farm to the leading role the business assumes today, Tecan empowers research, diagnostics and many applied markets around the world. Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments. Indian Constitution begins with 'We the People', not 'Bharat Mata': Owaisi Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 05:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Sadasivpet (Telangana) [India], February 9 (ANI): AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi emphasised that the Indian Constitution begins with the English words We the People, and not with the name Bharat Mata. Speaking at a public rally in Sadasivpet on Sunday, he addressed the long-standing parliamentary debate over the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, underscoring the importance of the Constitutions secular and inclusive principles.He noted that it does not invoke the name Bharat Mata," underscoring that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion under Article 25. The preamble, he noted, enshrines the values of liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity for all citizens. When the debate was going on, on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, I stood up and told the entire Parliament that on January 24, 1950, we gave ourselves a constitution, and that constitution begins with the English words We the People. This constitution does not begin with the name of Bharat Mata. The constitution states, under Article 25, that you will have religious freedom. The preamble of this constitution speaks of liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity," Owaisi said. He emphasised that linking patriotism solely to religion undermines the sacrifices of many freedom fighters and is inconsistent with the principles of the Constitution. If you connect religious worship with love for the nation, then what answer will you give to Bahadur Shah Zafar, who sacrificed his life and whose remains are in Rangoon? What answer will you give to Yusuf Meherally? Who told Gandhi to use the words Quit India, and who gave the slogan Go Back, Simon? If you connect one thing with religion and say that religion is love for the nation, it is not acceptable to us," said Owaisi. During the Parliaments winter session last year, a detailed debate was held on the occasion of Vande Matarams 150th anniversary. (ANI) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 05:30 IST News agency-feeds Indian Constitution begins with 'We the People', not 'Bharat Mata': Owaisi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... INS Sudarshini concludes first port call of Lokayan-26 in Oman Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 05:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi [India], February 9 (ANI): The Indian Navys sail training ship INS Sudarshini successfully concluded her first port call of the ten-month transoceanic voyage Lokayan-26 at Salalah, Oman, on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in Indias maritime outreach and strengthening bilateral naval ties with Oman, the Defence Ministry said. During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini interacted with Captain Mohammad Al Ghailani, Southern Naval Area Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), and Captain Mohammad Al Mahari, Commanding Officer of Royal Navy of Oman Vessel Al Moazer. The interactions highlighted historic seafaring links between India and Oman and reinforced the Bridges of Friendship between the two navies. As part of the professional engagement, the ship also hosted Royal Navy of Oman officers for a guided tour.The press release stated that, in a vibrant display of people-to-people engagement, the sail training ship was open to visitors. More than 600 visitors, including schoolchildren, were provided a firsthand glimpse of the three-masted barque and were familiarised with the nuances of ocean sailing.INS Sudarshini is now proceeding to her next leg of Lokayan 26, carrying forward Indias timeless seafaring legacy across the oceans. With sails set and spirits high, she continues to serve as a symbol of maritime excellence, friendship, and goodwill," the release said. The Indian Navys sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, on January 20 embarked on a 10-month transoceanic voyage from Naval Base Kochi.Reflecting Indias rich maritime heritage and the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" across the oceans, the ship will sail over 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 foreign ports across 13 countries, INS Sudarshinis participation in prestigious international tall-ship events, Escale a Sete, in France, and SAIL 250, in New York, USA. In both events, INS Sudarshini will represent Indias proud seafaring legacy and maritime traditions.During the course of the voyage, over 200 Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard trainees will undergo intensive sail training, gaining invaluable experience in long-range ocean navigation and traditional seamanship at sea.The deployment will expose trainees to the nuances of life aboard a tall ship and provide opportunities to interact with trainees from other Navies, fostering professional exchange and building enduring bonds of friendship.The Indian Navys Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini embarked on the flagship voyage of Lokayan 26, a 10-month transoceanic expedition, on Jan 20. Reflecting Indias rich maritime heritage and the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam across the oceans, the ship will sail more than 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 foreign ports in 13 countries, the Ministry of Defence said in a press release.INS Sudarshini will also participate in training interactions and maritime partnership engagements with the Navies of visiting countries, strengthening maritime cooperation and advancing the vision of MAHASAGAR. The voyage stands as a powerful symbol of cultural diplomacy, reaffirming the Indian Navys commitment to Building Bridges of cooperation and mutual trust across nations.Through Lokayan 26, she continues to serve as a beacon of Indias maritime strength, professionalism, and goodwill on the global stage, " the release said. (ANI) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 05:15 IST News agency-feeds INS Sudarshini concludes first port call of Lokayan-26 in Oman Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Israel's security cabinet approves measures to strengthen control over West Bank Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 03:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Jerusalem, Feb 9 (AP) Israels security cabinet on Sunday approved measures that aim to deepen Israeli control over the occupied West Bank and weaken the already limited powers of the Palestinian Authority. The office of far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in a statement announced the decisions that would make it easier for Jewish settlers to force Palestinians to give up land, adding that we will continue to bury the idea of a Palestinian state." Yonatan Mizrachi, a researcher with the Israeli anti-settlement watchdog group Peace Now, called the decision very significant." He said the decision still requires approval by Israels top commander for the West Bank. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a statement called the decision dangerous" and an open Israeli attempt to legalise settlement expansion" and land confiscation. He called for the United States and UN Security Council to intervene immediately. Jordans foreign ministry condemned the decision, which it said was aimed at imposing illegal Israeli sovereignty" and entrenching settlements. The measures include cancelling a prohibition on sales of West Bank land to Israeli Jews, declassifying West Bank land registry records to ease land acquisition, transferring construction planning at religious and other sensitive sites in the volatile city of Hebron to Israeli authorities, and allowing Israeli enforcement of environmental and archaeological matters in Palestinian-administered areas. The measures also would revive a committee that would allow the state of Israel to make proactive" land purchases in the territory a step intended to guarantee land reserves for settlement for generations to come." Peace Now in an explainer issued late Sunday called the decision aimed at breaking through every possible barrier on the way to a massive land grab in the West Bank." Notably, it said, Israeli authorities will be able to demolish construction in Palestinian-controlled areas if they deem it harmful to heritage or the environment. The West Bank is divided between an Israeli-controlled section where settlements are located and sections equalling 40 per cent of the territory where the Palestinian Authority has autonomy. Palestinians are not permitted to sell land privately to Israelis. Settlers can buy homes on land controlled by Israels government. Asked about settlers claims that the current system is discriminatory against Jews, Mizrachi said the entire system in the West Bank discriminates against Palestinians, who are not allowed to vote in Israeli elections and face Israeli military crackdowns and travel restrictions. More than 700,000 Israelis live in the occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories captured by Israel in 1967 and sought by the Palestinians for a future state. The international community overwhelmingly considers Israeli settlement construction in these areas to be illegal and an obstacle to peace. Smotrich, previously a firebrand settler leader and now finance minister, has been granted cabinet-level authority over settlement policies and vowed to double the settler population in the West Bank. Settler group Regavim in a statement praised Sundays decision, saying it would protect heritage sites in the West Bank and at long last" make land registry accessible and transparent. In December, Israels Cabinet approved a proposal for 19 new Jewish settlements in the West Bank as the government pushes ahead with a construction binge that further threatens the possibility of a Palestinian state. And Israel has cleared the final hurdle before starting construction on a contentious settlement project near Jerusalem that would effectively cut the West Bank in two, according to a government tender reported in January. (AP) SKY SKY News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 03:00 IST News agency-feeds Israel's security cabinet approves measures to strengthen control over West Bank Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... No debate in Parliament is oppn's loss, govt has majority: Rijiju Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday said if debates do not take place in Parliament, it will be a loss for the opposition as the ruling alliance has the majority and will have no problem in passing anything in the House. But the government wants everything to be passed after a debate, the Parliamentary Affairs minister said, amid the ongoing stand-off between the government and the opposition in Parliament. Talking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Rijiju also said that the opposition is free to bring a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla, but it does not have the numbers to remove him. He also accused the opposition of insulting the institution of the Speaker by climbing on his table and that of the table officers, and storming into the Speakers room. Rijiju said the government could have asked the Speaker to take stronger action, but it was okay with his decision to suspend eight opposition MPs. The minister said the government wants to run the House and is ready to talk to the opposition. Now I have heard that Rahul (Gandhi) went to meet the Speaker with four points (conditions), including withdrawal of the suspension of the MPs. They have not said such things to me. From the governments side, we are very clear that we want the House to function properly since the beginning and even today. But I cannot agree to a situation where Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will speak, make accusations, then create a ruckus and not let others speak. That will not happen. We will not agree to that. If the Congress speaks, then we will insist that other members also be allowed to speak. We will not allow only the Congress party to speak," Rijiju said. He said if Gandhi wants to speak and then create a turmoil, then it will be a loss for the opposition. The government has the majority and it will ensure passage of the Budget the way the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address was passed, the minister said. The government has the majority and the government has no problems in the passage of any issue. But we want everything to be passed after a debate," he said. There should be debate in the House and every party, even small parties with only one or two MPs, should be given a chance to speak, he added. Referring to the discussions a group of Congress leaders had with Birla, Rijiju said the delegation came with certain conditions. He said the delegation demanded that Gandhi be allowed to speak separately for two minutes. We said why should he get a chance to speak separately when the debate on the Budget is going on. The Congress team, which included senior leader K C Venugopal, said Gandhi wanted to raise some issues women MPs, about certain remarks by the Speaker and some issues which they did not disclose," the minister said. We said that if the House has to function smoothly, MPs and other parties will also speak. The Speaker has agreed to that," he said. All parties, especially the big parties, should get a chance to speak and only then can the House function and the debate on the Budget can go on, he added. But before this, there has to be an agreement that after Gandhi speaks for two minutes, no disruptions will be allowed, Rijiju said. Allowing to speak means the House has to function smoothly. You will speak and you will speak on some unwarranted issues and then there will be problems. We cant put the Speaker in trouble nor can you mislead the Speaker," he said. PTI ACB DIV DIV News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST News agency-feeds No debate in Parliament is oppn's loss, govt has majority: Rijiju Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Oscar-nominated film 'The Secret Agent' to hit Indian cinemas on Feb 27 Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 9 (ANI): The Oscar-nominated film The Secret Agent is finally coming to Indian cinemas, after a strong run at major award shows and film festivals around the world.The Wagner Moura starrer is set in Brazil in the year 1977, a time when the country was facing unrest and fear. The story follows a tech expert who leaves behind a dark past and returns to his hometown of Recife, hoping to live in peace. But the city soon pulls him into danger, spying, and hard choices.The Secret Agent is directed by Brazilian filmmaker Kleber Mendonca Filho and stars Moura in the lead role. The film has received wide praise from critics and moviebuffs for its story, acting, and direction. It has earned four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor.The film also performed well at Cannes, where Mendonca Filho won Best Director and Moura won Best Actor. Later, at the Golden Globes, Moura won Best Actor in a Drama, and the film won Best Foreign Language Film.Lead actor Wagner Moura, who plays Marcelo in the film, said his character is not a usual hero but a man trying to stay human in a harsh world. He said he is happy that people in India will connect with the films feelings and message.Marcelo is not a conventional hero; he is a man trying to remain humane in a world that constantly tests him. The response to the film has been overwhelming, and Im excited for Indian audiences to connect with its emotional and political resonance," said Wagner as per a release. The Secret Agent will hit theatres across India on February 27. (ANI) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST News agency-feeds Oscar-nominated film 'The Secret Agent' to hit Indian cinemas on Feb 27 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Person is shot in high school in Maryland and suspect is in custody, police say Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 04:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Rockville, Feb 10 (AP) One person was shot inside a high school in Maryland on Monday as police said that a person was in custody and the schools campus was on lockdown. Police have a person in custody related to the shooting, according to the Montgomery County Department of Police in a post on X. There is no further threat to the public, the Rockville City Police Department said in a social media post. Officers were dispatched at 2:15 pm because of reports of shots fired at Thomas S Wootton High School in Rockville, a suburb of Washington, DC, the department said. Were just still in lockdown, the police are here, the kids are all in the classrooms," said Tabitha Davis, an administrator at the school, who wasnt able to provide more information in a brief phone interview with The Associated Press. Rockville is the seat of Montgomery County, Marylands most populous. (AP) SKY SKY News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 10, 2026, 04:15 IST News agency-feeds Person is shot in high school in Maryland and suspect is in custody, police say Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Rachita Bhandari appointed India's next High Commissioner to Malta Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 04:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi [India], February 10 (ANI): Rachita Bhandari, of the Indian Foreign Service batch 2005, presently Joint Secretary in the Ministry, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Malta, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said.Bhandari is expected to take up the assignment shortly, the statement said.India and Malta enjoy friendly and cordial relations. India was one of the first countries to recognise the independence of Malta in 1964 and established diplomatic relations with it in 1965. The High Commission of India was reopened in Malta in Jan 2017 and the resident High Commissioner of India took charge in Jan 2018. Malta opened its High Commission in New Delhi in July 2007 and has Honorary Consuls in Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. India-Malta bilateral relations have been friendly, with a number of visits having been exchanged between the two sides, as per MEA.A cultural agreement between India and Malta was signed in 1992 and remains in force. Cultural events such as film festivals, food festivals, and performances by Indian cultural troupes have been organised by the High Commission. There is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Malta, gifted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).Malta Post issued Commemorative Stamps on the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The International Day of Yoga is being regularly celebrated in Malta. The Indian musical band Astitva, sponsored by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations, participated at the Destination North festival in September 2023 in a first such visit by a cultural troupe from India to Malta in many years, MEA stated. The High Commission organised the Indian Film Festival on 16-17 March 2024 in Valletta and on 11-14 April 2024 in Gozo. In partnership with the Indian community, the High Commission organises various Indian festivals in Malta.The Indian community in Malta is estimated to be around 18,000. The Indian diaspora in Malta has grown rapidly in recent years. In addition to the health care sector, the other sectors employing Indians include the Hospitality Industry, the Construction sector, the IT sector and related services. Several Indian Associations like Malta Malayalee Association, Malta Tamil Association, Bengali Association Malta, Gujarati Association and Navodaya Sanatan Group have been formed in recent years. (ANI) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 10, 2026, 04:30 IST News agency-feeds Rachita Bhandari appointed India's next High Commissioner to Malta Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Sharad Pawar's health is very good right now: Rohit Pawar Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 03:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Pune (Maharashtra) [India], February 10 (ANI): NCP-SCP leader Rohit Pawar on Monday provided an update on the health of Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) president Sharad Pawar, stating that the senior leader is currently in good health. Sharad Pawars health is very good right now. His tests have been done there. He has not been kept in the ICU. He has been kept in a private room there. He doesnt need any support there right now. Once the reports come, it will be decided whether he will be kept in Pune or Mumbai," Rohit Pawar told reporters.He added that a decision on whether Pawar will be shifted to Pune or Mumbai will be taken once the medical reports are received. Pawar came here in a private vehicle, and everything is normal," he said.Rohit Pawar also urged party workers to avoid visiting the hospital to avoid inconveniencing other patients. I, Supriya Tai, the doctors, the party workers, and people from across Maharashtra will provide regular updates," he said.Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) president Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital on Monday, and his daughter Supriya Sule said that he has developed chest congestion and will need a five-day course of antibiotics.Supriya Sule, MP, said in a post on X that Sharad Pawars other vital parameters are normal.Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a 5-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your good wishes and constant support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart," she said.Maharashtra Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar arrived at Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital in Pune earlier today to meet with NCP-SCP chief. Ruby Hall Clinic Hospitals Dr Abhijeet Lodha earlier told the media that Sharad Pawars condition is stable.His preliminary examination has been completed. Since his oxygen levels and heart rate are normal, there is no cause for concern at present. Due to continuous travel and engagements over the past few days, he has experienced fatigue. Due to chest congestion, a respiratory examination was also conducted. He has been admitted to a private room and does not require oxygen support," he said.Rohit Pawar, grand nephew of Sharad Pawar said the senior leader has had a hectic schedule over the past few days."Over the past ten to twelve days, Sharad Pawar has had a very hectic schedule. Due to physical exhaustion and mild breathing discomfort, he was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic. Doctors have conducted all necessary tests, and the results are normal. I personally spoke to the doctors. Once the remaining test reports are received, a decision will be taken on whether he should stay in Pune or be shifted to Mumbai," he said.An appeal has been made to NCP(SP) workers not to gather in the hospital so that other patients are not inconvenienced. (ANI) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 10, 2026, 03:30 IST News agency-feeds Sharad Pawar's health is very good right now: Rohit Pawar Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Storm Marta kills at least 4 in Morocco as country battles floods Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 03:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Rabat(Morocco), Feb 9 (AP) Flash floods caused by a storm in northern Morocco killed at least four people as the country struggled with days of heavy rain and water releases from overfilled dams that forced mass evacuations, local authorities said Sunday. Three children a girl and two boys aged 2 to 14 and a man in his 30s died in a car that was swept away in a village near Tetouan, about 270 km north of the capital Rabat, according to a statement from the Interior Ministry citing local authorities. Another person remains missing. Local authorities said they will open an investigation into what happened. The flash floods were caused by a storm system known as Marta, which moved into Morocco over the weekend and dumped up to 92 mm of rain on some northern cities, Houssine Youabed of Moroccos General Directorate of Meteorology told The Associated Press. Storm Marta also reached neighbouring Spain and Portugal. Days earlier, another storm, Leonardo, hit northern Africa and the Iberian peninsula. In Morocco, it overfilled dams and rivers, damaging homes and crops, triggering minor landslides and forcing more than 1,50,000 people to evacuate. The turbulent weather has also secured at least a years supply of drinking water for Morocco and boosted resources for the countrys critical agricultural sector, officials said, providing relief after a yearslong drought. (AP) SKY SKY News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 03:30 IST News agency-feeds Storm Marta kills at least 4 in Morocco as country battles floods Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta-starrer 'Lahore 1947' to release in August Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) Lahore 1947", a period drama featuring Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta in the lead roles, is set to release on August 13. Produced by Aamir Khan under his production banner Aamir Khan Productions, the film is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. It also features Shabana Azmi, according to a press release. Khan remembered the late actor and Deols father, Dharmendra, who died in November 2025 and said it was one of his favourite scripts. This was one of the favourite scripts of Dharamji, and I am so glad he could see the film," Khan said in a statement. The film also reunites Deol and Zinta, who have previously worked on projects such as Farz" (2001) and The Hero: Love Story of a Spy", which released in 2003. Deols latest work is Border 2". Released on January 23, the film is directed by Anurag Singh and is a sequel to the 1997 film Border". It features Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty alongside Deol, who also featured in the first film. The upcoming film also marks Zintas return on-screen following her last work in 2018s release Bhaiaji Superhit". Directed by Neeraj Pathak, the film also starred Deol and Arshad Warsi in the lead roles. PTI ATR ATR ATR News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 19:15 IST News agency-feeds Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta-starrer 'Lahore 1947' to release in August Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Torres fraud: Mumbai court denies bail to Ukrainian actor citing flight risk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 20:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Mumbai, Feb 9 (PTI) A court here has denied bail to Ukrainian actor Armen Ataian held in the Torres investment fraud case, citing gravity of the offence" and the possibility of fleeing the country". Platinum Hern Pvt Limited, which ran the Torres brand, is accused of cheating investors of approximately Rs 148.89 crores through a combination of Ponzi and multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. Ataian, as per the prosecution, was part of a criminal conspiracy involving the company. Additional sessions judge R B Rote dismissed the actors bail plea on February 5. This was his second attempt at securing bail. His earlier plea was rejected as the investigation in the case was still pending. The accused, through his advocate, submitted that he was arrested on January 28, 2025 and has been in jail for over a year. The investigation has been completed and a chargesheet has been filed, the defence stated, claiming that the allegation against the Ukrainian national was based on hearsay material". The Mumbai polices Economic Offences Wing (EOW), which is probing the case, opposed the bail, contending that the accused hatched a criminal conspiracy and induced the complainant and other investors to invest in the company, assuring them of handsome returns. The EOW alleged that Platinum Hern Pvt Ltd opened various jewellery showrooms in Mumbai and nearby areas and induced gullible public to invest in moissanite stones. If the money is invested in gold and diamonds, the investors were assured that they would receive an immediate 2 per cent return and thereafter, get interest at the rate of 6 per cent to 12 per cent every week, the probe agency alleged. It claimed that the company has made huge advertisements of various schemes and collected Rs 148.89 crore from 14,964 investors. The court, in its order, pointed out that three other similar crimes had been registered against the company. It also noted that the main accused were still absconding, and the investigation was in progress. Therefore, considering the nature, gravity, seriousness, large magnitude of the offence, and the larger interest of the society at this stage, it is not just and proper to exercise discretion and grant bail to the accused," the court said. It emphasised that there is every possibility of fleeing away and tampering with the prosecution evidence". The judge, while rejecting the plea, also held that there was no substantial change in the circumstances since the rejection of first bail application, except filing of the chargesheet against some accused. PTI AVI ARU News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 20:15 IST News agency-feeds Torres fraud: Mumbai court denies bail to Ukrainian actor citing flight risk Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump administration congratulates Japan PM Takaichi's on big victory Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 05:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Washington, DC [US], February 9 (ANI): The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her big victory" in the general election, as Japans ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on a Fox News that Trump has a great relationship" with Takaichi and when Japan is strong, the U.S. is strong in Asia."Bessent welcomed her ruling coalition winning a two-thirds majority in Japans more powerful House of Representatives, calling it a big victory."Describing the victory as an impressive win," U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass in a post on X that the administration looks forward to building on Trumps reinvigoration of the US-Japan partnership by continuing to deepen cooperation between our two dynamic nations."Congratulations to Prime Minister @takaichi_sanae on an impressive win in the House of Representatives election. I look forward to building on @POTUS @realDonaldTrumps reinvigoration of the U.S.-Japan partnership by continuing to deepen cooperation between our two dynamic nations." https://x.com/USAmbJapan/status/2020477558639444226US President Donald Trump on Sunday endorsed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as Japan went to the polls for a crucial legislative election. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 05:15 IST News agency-feeds Trump administration congratulates Japan PM Takaichi's on big victory Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... US trims tariffs on Bangladesh to 19 per cent Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Dhaka, Feb 9 (PTI) Bangladesh on Monday secured a reduced 19 per cent tariff under a trade agreement with the United States that would exempt some textiles and garments manufactured with US materials, interim government chief Muhammad Yunus said. In an X post, he said Washington had committed to establishing a mechanism for certain textile and apparel goods from Bangladesh using US-produced cotton and man-made fibre to receive zero reciprocal tariff in (the) US market". Yunus, known for his pro-US stance, said the deal was reached after nine months of negotiations since April last year. Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department or any office of the Trump administration made no immediate comment on the development. According to Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, Bangladeshs key export-earning ready-made garments (RMG) made from cotton and synthetic fibres imported from the US would enjoy zero reciprocal duty under the deal. He said the agreement was signed in Washington by Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and US Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer. Commerce ministry officials said apart from cotton, the deal includes provisions for importing US wheat, soybean, and LNG, refraining from imposing tariffs on e-commerce, complying with US-mandated intellectual property rights standards, and supporting US proposals for reforming the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Bangladesh recently agreed to purchase 25 aircraft from US aerospace giant Boeing, with an estimated cost of Tk 30,000-35,000 crore as part of broader efforts to ease the US tariffs. According to Bangladeshs Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), the US remains Bangladeshs largest export market. The South Asian nation in August last year secured a reduction in US tariffs on its exports to 20 per cent, down from 37 per cent initially proposed by Washington. Bangladeshi policymakers earlier said they expected the tariff could be brought down to 15 per cent. Business analysts, however, said the deal offered much-needed relief to Bangladeshs apparel exporters as the RMG sector accounts for more than 80 per cent of its export earnings and employs some 4 million workers, mostly women, and contributes about 10 per cent to gross domestic product (GDP). The US earlier this month announced to lower tariffs to 18 per cent from 50 per cent for India, seeking New Delhi to halt Russian oil purchases and lower trade barriers. The commerce secretary said the recently concluded US-India trade deal might have influenced Washingtons decision to cut the tariff possibly due to geopolitical considerations". Bangladeshs closest competitor, Vietnam, received a 20 per cent reciprocal tariff, while Pakistan, Cambodia and Indonesia have also been subjected to a 19 per cent tariff. The development comes as Bangladesh heads for the February 12 general election to choose new leadership and bring an end to the 18-month Yunus-led interim regime, which took charge after the fall of Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government following a violent student-led street campaign dubbed the July Uprising. PTI AR GRS GRS GRS News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 10, 2026, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds US trims tariffs on Bangladesh to 19 per cent Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What to know about Israeli president's state visit to Australia Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 03:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Melbourne, Feb 9 (AP) The stated purpose of Israel President Isaac Herzogs visit to Australia is to support the Jewish community still reeling from an antisemitic attack at Sydneys Bondi Beach that left 15 dead. But his critics warn his presence undermines rather than repairs social cohesion frayed by the far away war in Gaza. Protest rallies are expected to follow the president, who performs a largely ceremonial role as head of state, as he travels to Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra over four days starting Monday. Some critics demand he be arrested in Australia on suspicion of inciting genocide in Gaza. He is the first Israeli head of state to visit Australia since Reuven Rivlin in 2020. Herzogs father, Chaim Herzog, also visited Australia as Israels president in 1986. Heres what to know: The Australian visit comes at a time of extraordinary bilateral tensions Within hours of two gunmen allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group launching their attack in Sydney on December 14 last year, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese, posting on social media your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire." Netanyahu had been outraged by Australias decision four months earlier to join France, Britain and Canada in recognising a Palestinian state. Netanyahu has repeatedly sought to link widespread calls for a Palestinian state, and criticism of Israels military offensive in Gaza, to growing incidents of antisemitism worldwide. Albanese has accused Netanyahu of being in denial" over the humanitarian consequences of war in Gaza. Netanyahu has branded the Australian a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australias Jews." Australian Jews have appealed to both leaders to restore diplomatic norms" to a bilateral relationship that had been friendly for decades. Albanese has made clear his governments invitation to Herzog to make that state visit was the idea of Jewish leaders. President Herzog is coming particularly to engage with members of the Jewish community who are grieving the loss of 15 innocent lives," Albanese said. People should recognise the solemn nature of the engagement that President Herzog will have with the community of Bondi in particular, and bear that in mind by the way that they respond over coming weeks," he added. Jewish leaders welcome Herzogs visit Sydney-based Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said his community warmly anticipates" Herzogs arrival. His visit will lift the spirits of a pained community and we hope will lead to a much-needed recalibration of bilateral relations between two historic allies," Ryvchin said. President Herzog is a patriot and a person of dignity and compassion and holds an office that is above party politics. He is a person who has sadly had to comfort families, police and first responders after terrorist attacks many times, and will know how to reassure and fortify our community in its darkest time," he added. Ryvchin is one of the Australian Jewish leaders who have accused Albaneses center-left Labor Party government of not doing enough to curb an increase in antisemitism in Sydney and Melbourne, where 85% of Australias Jewish population live, since the Israel-Hamas war began in 2023. Herzog sees opportunity to reset relations Herzog, a former head of Israels centrist Labor Party, now holds a job meant to serve as a unifier and moral compass for all Israelis. A onetime rival of Netanyahu, he has good working relations with the prime minister. Ahead of his visit, Herzog told The Associated Press that the primary reason" for the trip was to stand with Australias Jewish community as the representative of all Israelis. From thousands of miles away in Israel, we feel the deep pain of our Jewish Australian sisters and brothers. I am coming to show them our love and support at this devastating time," he said. But Herzog also said the visit is an opportunity to reinvigorate relations" between Israel and Australia. There is a long history of partnership between our two nations and deeply held shared values," he said, adding that the visit offers a chance to reignite the longstanding bipartisan support for ties between Israel and Australia." I hope to be able to communicate this message of goodwill and friendship to the Australian people, and dispel many of the lies and misinformation spread about Israel over the last two years," he said. Israels critics have called for Herzogs invitation to be withdrawn This is one of the most divisive figures in the world. Bringing him to Australia will undermine social cohesion, it will not rebuild it. It will increase division, it will not bring about national unity," Australian human rights lawyer Chris Sidoti said. Sidoti described the invitation as a "crazy idea." Sidoti was one of three experts appointed by the UNs Human Rights Council to an inquiry that reported in September last year that Herzog, Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had incited the commission of genocide in Gaza. The findings carry no legal consequence and Israel has rejected genocide allegations against the country as antisemitic blood libel." Sidoti and other lawyers say Australian police could potentially arrest Herzog on suspicion of inciting genocide, which is a crime under Australian law as well as international law. Australian Federal Police have declined to comment. A lawmaker in Albaneses government, Ed Husic, said he was very uncomfortable" with Herzogs visit. Husic, a Muslim and vocal critic of Israels conduct in Gaza, said he was concerned that a figure like that doesnt necessarily enhance social cohesion." Some state government lawmakers from Albaneses Labor Party have said they will join a protest in downtown Sydney on Monday planned by the Palestine Action Group activist organisation. We need to send a clear message to our government and to the world we are fundamentally opposed to this tour, which is designed to normalise genocide," protest organizer Josh Lees said. Police prepare to use enhanced powers of arrest to control protesters in Sydney In response to the Bondi shooting, the New South Wales state parliament rushed through legislation increasing police powers to arrest protesters in the aftermath of a declared terrorist attack. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said a heightened police response in Sydney during Herzogs visit was necessary to ensure safety. We will have thousands of mourners and thousands of protesters as well as a visiting head of state all in the same city at the same time. And weve got a responsibility to keep people safe in those circumstances," Minns said. Every international city anywhere in the world would apply exactly the same geographical restrictions so that the two groups dont meet and as a result theres not a major confrontation," Minns added. (AP) SKY SKY News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 03:30 IST News agency-feeds What to know about Israeli president's state visit to Australia Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... India-US Trade Deal: Brokerages Remain Broadly Positive; What They Say And Which Sectors Are In Focus Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 10:35 IST Bernstein says details released so far are broadly positive for Indian equities, with meaningful gains expected for auto components and protection for pharma from downside risks. PM Modi and US President Donald Trump. (File Photo: Reuters) The announcement of an interim India-US trade deal framework has lifted market sentiment, but brokerages said the fine print of the agreement will explain its tangible benefits for India. Brokerage firm Bernstein said the details released so far are broadly positive for Indian equities, with meaningful gains expected for auto components and protection for the pharmaceutical sector from potential downside risks. The economic costs of switching to far-off crude suppliers will be outweighed by tariff benefits," Bernstein said, referring to the removal of the additional 25% Russian oil-related duty that had weighed on Indian exports. Despite recent market volatility, the brokerage has retained its year-end Nifty target, implying a 9.5% upside from current levels. Given the recent correction, we maintain our target, though risks remain as this is a framework agreement and not a full-fledged bilateral trade agreement (BTA)," it added. JM Financial also termed the agreement a clear sentiment positive, particularly for export-oriented sectors, though it cautioned that elevated absolute valuations could slow the pace of incremental foreign inflows. The reduction in effective tariffs and removal of punitive duties should support a rebound in Indias trade surplus with the US after the FY26 year-to-date deterioration caused by higher tariffs," JM Financial said. Improved export flows are expected to boost dollar inflows, support the balance of payments, and lend a marginal appreciation bias to the rupee. From a macro perspective, the brokerage said Indias external position improves relative to several Asian emerging market peers that continue to face higher effective US tariffs. Auto components among biggest beneficiaries Brokerages broadly agree that the auto components sector is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the framework. Bernstein highlighted the importance of changes related to Section 232 tariffs, which cover aluminium and steel. India will receive a preferential tariff quota on auto parts. This is significant as it effectively removes or reduces the 25 per cent tariffs on auto components, which were otherwise excluded from reciprocal tariff measures," Bernstein said, adding that the exact quota details are yet to be disclosed. Electronics exports remain largely unaffected, having benefited from exemptions even under earlier tariff regimes. Other sectors expected to benefit include diamonds and jewellery, textiles, machinery, chemicals and automobiles, where tariff reductions materially enhance competitiveness. Pharmaceuticals and aircraft components continue to enjoy near-zero duty access. Conditional positives, policy risks remain In a note titled India-US trade: Clarity improves, positives deepen, but conditional, PL Capital said the joint statement released on February 6 sets the base for a broader trade agreement but carries explicit conditions. The US and India on 6th Feb26 released a joint statement announcing a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement (ITA), which will be negotiated as the first step toward a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA)," PL Capital said. Under the framework, the US will apply an 18% reciprocal tariff on select Indian goods while outlining the potential removal of reciprocal tariffs on a wider set of products. Indian exports will receive a preferential tariff rate quota for automotive parts and tariff removals on specific aircraft components. In return, the US gains tariff cuts across several sectors and long-term purchase commitments from India. What has changed since the initial social media announcements by Trump and Modi? PL Capital said that listing the legal withdrawal of the additional 25% duty, Indias commitment to cease Russian oil imports, selective rather than blanket tariff liberalisation, and improved near-term trade visibility. PL Capital also flagged that the framework includes an explicit monitoring mechanism allowing the US to re-impose duties if commitments are breached. Trade policy under the current US administration remains closely intertwined with geopolitical considerations," it cautioned. Ministerial clarity eases domestic concerns Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has clarified that India has not agreed to blanket zero tariffs on US imports. Concessions are selective and calibrated, with explicit protection for sensitive agricultural, dairy, MSME, handloom and handicraft sectors. Brokerages said this approach balances export competitiveness while safeguarding politically sensitive domestic industries. Overall, while the interim trade framework falls short of a full bilateral agreement, analysts said it provides improved visibility, reduces immediate tariff risks, and strengthens Indias relative macro position making it a clear, if conditional, positive for markets. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 10:35 IST News business economy India-US Trade Deal: Brokerages Remain Broadly Positive; What They Say And Which Sectors Are In Focus Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Fractal Analytics IPO Opens Today: Should You Subscribe? Price, GMP, Recommendations Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:29 IST Unlisted shares of Fractal Analytics Ltd were trading at Rs 913 apiece in the grey market, which is 1.44% premium over the upper IPO price of Rs 900, indicating subdued listing. Fractal Analytics IPO: Check subscription status, GMP today. Fractal Analytics IPO: The initial public offering (IPO) of Fractal Analytics Ltd opened on Monday, February 9. The Rs 2,833.9-crore IPO, whose price band has been fixed in the range of Rs 857 to Rs 900 apiece, will be closed on February 11. Till 3:25 pm on the first day of bidding on Monday, the IPO got a muted 0.08x subscription, receiving bids for 14,06,064 shares as against 1,76,18,278 shares on offer. Its retail category got a 0.33x subscription, while its non-institutional investor (NII) quota got a 0.06x subscription. Fractal Analytics IPO GMP Today According to market observers, unlisted shares of Fractal Analytics Ltd were trading at Rs 913 apiece in the grey market, which is a 1.44 per cent premium over the upper IPO price of Rs 900. It indicates a subdued listing. Its listing will take place on February 16, Monday. The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price. Fractal Analytics IPO: What Should Investors Do? Heres What Brokerages Say ICICI Direct in its report said, Fractal is building a comprehensive suite of AI solutions and products. However, when we benchmark its AI investments vs. peers on objective parameters such as R&D intensity, capex intensity, patent filings and AI revenue, Fractal ranks similar to its IT services peers, and lower vs. global AI and platform peers. Its revenue per employee and cost per employee metrics are also similar to its pure-play data analytics peer, LatentView Analytics, suggesting the underlying service and solutions portfolio is similar." Fractal has a comprehensive suite of AI solutions, including its enterprise agentic AI platform, Cogentiq, and AI products Asper.ai, Kalaido.ai, Vaidya.ai and Qure.ai. The company began its foray into AI and IP creation as early as 2012 and accelerated new AI product development 2023 onwards. The company serves clients across CPGR, TMT, healthcare and life sciences (HLS), BFSI, and other industries. Giving a subscribe rating to the IPO, BP Wealth in its note said, Fractal Analytics Limited (FAL), founded in 2000, is a globally recognised enterprise artificial intelligence company that partners with large global enterprises to deliver data-driven insights and enable better decision-making through end-to-end AI solutions. The company offers its full suite of AI capabilities across two segments. Firstly, Fractal.ai comprises AI services and products, primarily hosted on Cogentiq, its flagship agentic AI platform, which enables enterprises to accelerate product development and upgrades through a prebuilt suite of agents, tools, and connectors, supported by low-code capabilities and robust security, governance, auditability, and interoperability features. The second segment, Fractal Alpha, houses the companys AI businesses." The company is well-positioned to capitalise on strong structural tailwinds in the global data, analytics, and AI (DAAI) market, which is witnessing rapid adoption as enterprises increasingly embed AI into core decision-making and operational processes, it added. At the upper end of the price band of Rs. 900 per share, the company is trading at a P/E of 110.0x based on its FY26 annualized earnings. Given the companys positioning within a rapidly expanding AI market and its improving profitability profile, we recommend a Subscribe rating to the issue from a medium-to long-term perspective," it added. Another brokerage firm Ventura also gave its subscribe rating to the IPO. It said, Fractals growth is driven by increasing enterprise adoption of AI-led decision intelligence and expanding deployment of generative AI solutions across client use cases. However, execution risks, evolving technology cycles, and competitive pressures in the global AI and analytics services market remain key considerations. Overall, Fractal Analytics is positioned as a scaled enterprise AI platform with diversified industry exposure, strong revenue momentum, and improving profitability metrics." Financials Fractals profitability improved materially in FY25. EBITDA increased to Rs 398 crore, with an EBITDA margin of 14.4%, compared to Rs 97.2 crore and 4.4% in FY24. Adjusted EBITDA stood at Rs 482.1 crore, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 17.4%. Profit after tax (PAT) for FY25 was Rs 220.6 crore, compared to a loss of Rs 54.7 crore in FY24, with a PAT margin of 8.0%, while adjusted PAT stood at Rs 347.8 crore, translating into an adjusted PAT margin of 12.6%. Fractal Analytics Mobilises Rs 1,248 Crore From Anchor Investors Artificial intelligence (AI) solutions provider Fractal Analytics on Friday garnered Rs 1,248.26 crore from anchor investors, days before the opening of its initial public offering (IPO). The anchor book saw broad-based participation from a mix of leading domestic and global institutional investors, reflecting robust demand for the issue. Fractal Analytics IPO: More Details Fractal has scaled down the size of its IPO from the Rs 4,900 crore it had initially proposed. The revised offer comprises a fresh issue of equity shares worth up to Rs 1,023.5 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of Rs 1,810.4 crore, taking the total issue size to Rs 2,833.9 crore. In its draft papers filed in August, the company had planned to raise Rs 4,900 crore through the public issue. Those selling shares in the OFS include Quinag Bidco Ltd, TPG Fett Holdings Pte. Ltd, Satya Kumari Remala Rao, Venkateswara Remala and GLM Family Trust. Fractal plans to use the proceeds from fresh issue to invest in its subsidiary, Fractal USA, for pre-payment or repayment of its borrowings; buy laptops; set up new offices in India; invest in research and development; support sales and marketing under Fractal Alpha; fund acquisitions and other strategic initiatives; and for general corporate purposes. According to the company, 75 per cent of the issue size has been reserved for qualified institutional buyers, 15 per for non-institutional investors and the remaining 10 per cent for retail investors. Fractal, which was co-founded by Srikanth Velamakanni and Pranay Agrawal in 2000, supports large global enterprises across multiple industry verticals and business functions with data-driven insights and assists in decision-making through end-to-end AI solutions. Backed by marquee investors like TPG, Apax, Gaja, Fractal is a leading pure play data and artificial intelligence company and has domain expertise spanning across consumer packaged goods & retail; technology, media and telecom; healthcare and life sciences and banking, financial services and insurance. As per its industry report, it is uniquely placed among other industry players with active investments in expanding its AI and Gen AI software portfolio and R&D activities. As on March 31, 2025, the firm served global companies which include Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta and Tesla. Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, Morgan Stanley India Company, Axis Capital and Goldman Sachs (India) Securities have been appointed by Fractal to manage its maiden public issue. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:06 IST News business ipo Fractal Analytics IPO Opens Today: Should You Subscribe? Price, GMP, Recommendations Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Titan, Kalyan Jewellers, Senco Gold Surge Up To 12%: Whats Driving The Rally In Jewellery Stocks? Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 11:28 IST Jewellery stocks including Titan, Kalyan Jewellers, Senco Gold and PC Jeweller rallied up to 12% on Monday; Know why India US Trade: Jewellery stocks rally Jewellery stocks, including Titan, Kalyan Jewellers, Senco Gold and PC Jeweller rallied up to 12% on Monday, February 9, after India and the US released a joint statement outlining a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) the first step towards a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The announcement brought much-needed tariff clarity for export-linked sectors, with the gems and jewellery space emerging as a key beneficiary. The US remains one of the largest consumption markets for Indian jewellery exports, and market participants said the deal could directly support manufacturers, exporters and organised retailers with global exposure. Investor sentiment strengthened as the framework also signalled potential tariff removals on a wider set of products over time, improving the medium-term outlook for the sector. Under the framework, the US will apply an 18% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods such as textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, jewellery, plastics and rubber, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal products and certain machinery, while outlining the potential removal of reciprocal tariffs on a broader product basket. In exchange, the US will receive tariff cuts across sectors including food and agricultural products, along with long-term commitments from India, including Rs 500 billion in planned purchases over five years. Additionally, the 25% Russian oil-related duty on Indian imports will be removed, subject to India ceasing Russian oil imports and committing to US energy purchases, with a monitoring mechanism in place. Stocks rally across the jewellery pack Buying interest was visible across the jewellery segment through the session. Kalyan Jewellers surged over 11.7% to Rs 424.30, while Senco Gold climbed nearly 7% to Rs 355.75. P N Gadgil Jewellers advanced about 6% to Rs 582.15, and Thangamayil Jewellery rose over 5% to Rs 3,555.30. PC Jeweller gained around 4% to Rs 10.56, while Titan Company moved up over 2% to Rs 4,227.80, as investors priced in a stronger export outlook following the trade agreement framework. Boost for the sector Industry participants said the clarity on tariffs could help revive export volumes that were hit hard in recent years and restore confidence across the value chain. The announcement of zero tariff on gems & diamonds is a momentous one and well rejoiced by the Indian gems & jewellery sector. India being the global hub for diamond processing, was impacted severely due to the trade tariffs, where trade had dropped over 60% when it comes to cut & polished diamonds. The waiver of tariff will help revive exports and reinstate the sparkle in business," said Colin Shah, Managing Director, Kama Jewelry. Shah added that the industry is grateful to the Indian government and the Ministry of Commerce for the negotiations, noting that the move would not only provide a strong boost to the sector but also contribute meaningfully to the broader goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by adding long-term value and supporting domestic manufacturing and exports. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:28 IST News business markets Titan, Kalyan Jewellers, Senco Gold Surge Up To 12%: Whats Driving The Rally In Jewellery Stocks? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... BMRCL Board To Discuss Metro Fare Hike Today Amid Public Outcry; Political Slugfest Heats Up Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 09:55 IST BMRCL paused Namma Metro fare hike after public outcry. The Board, including Central and Karnataka officials, meets today. Image for representation In the wake of the temporary halt to the proposed annual fare revision for Namma Metro following the public outcry, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has scheduled a Board of Directors meeting at 4 P.M. today, February 9. The 14-member board comprising five officials from the Central government and nine from the Karnataka government is expected to brainstorm on the fare hike. The central government officials will also take part in the meeting through video conferencing. Meanwhile, a decision on the annual fare revision is likely to be finalised by this evening. Annual Fare Revision On Hold In a media release on Sunday, the BMRCL announced its earlier communication dated February 5, announcing the fare revision, had been put on hold until further notice. The decision on the revised fare will be communicated after the boards review," the release stated. However, it did not specify any timeline. The rollback followed a massive criticism from commuters as well as an intense political drama between the BJP and the Congress, as they tried to pin responsibility for the proposed hike on each other. The proposal came in the backdrop of the last years steep increase in metro fares, making Namma Metro as the most expensive metro service in the country. Congress Vs BJP In a post on X, the Karnataka unit of the Congress hit out at the BJP, questioning its role in the proposed fare hike. First, they said the Centre has no role in Namma Metro fare hikes.Now, BJP MPs are running to Delhi asking it to temporarily hold" the same hike. If you have no power over fares, how do you have the power to pause them? You cant wash your hands of responsibility and then pic.twitter.com/DP4sJDlgZP Karnataka Congress (@INCKarnataka) February 8, 2026 First, they said the Centre has no role in Namma Metro fare hikes.Now, BJP MPs are running to Delhi asking it to temporarily hold the same hike. If you have no power over fares, how do you have the power to pause them? You cant wash your hands of responsibility and then claim influence when public anger rises", it wrote in a post on X. The party trained guns at BJP MP from Bangalore South, Tejasv Si Surya, accusing him of politicising the issue. If there is no authority over fare revision, how does the authority to stop it arise?" the Congress asked, adding that responsibility cannot be evaded when public anger reaches a tipping point. The BJP, on the other hand, targeted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and accused him of ignoring public interest and displaying a stubborn attitude on the issue. Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka, thanked Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar for promptly responding to the issue and temporarily halting the proposed metro fare hike. As promised, the unjust Metro fare hike has been put on hold.Earlier, I had personally spoken to Union Minister Shri @mlkhattar ji, urging immediate intervention to protect the interests of Bengalurus commuters. I am grateful for his swift and decisive action in ensuring https://t.co/Ft3LX1Urkt pic.twitter.com/Fer3QhNJkc R. Ashoka (@RAshokaBJP) February 8, 2026 I had personally spoken to Union Minister Shri@mlkhattarji, urging immediate intervention to protect the interests of Bengalurus commuters. I am grateful for his swift and decisive action in ensuring relief to lakhs of daily passengers", Ashoka wrote in the post. Tejasvi Surya Detained Over Protest Amid the political tug-of-war, Bengaluru witnessed heightened tensions at the RV Road Metro Station after BJP MP Tejasvi Surya arrived there carrying an empty trunk, which he said intended to represent the state governments own description of its financial condition. Addressing the media, Surya questioned the financial state of the Karnataka government, demanding the release of a white paper during the ongoing budget session. As tensions arose, the police stepped up and seized the empty trunk", taking Surya into custody. BJP MLA CK Ramamurthy was also detained during the operation. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:18 IST News bengaluru-news BMRCL Board To Discuss Metro Fare Hike Today Amid Public Outcry; Political Slugfest Heats Up Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... No Kannada Name Board, Only Tamil Songs: Pro-Kannada Group Disrupts Bengaluru Concert Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 08:41 IST Karnataka Rakshana Vedike state president reached at the venue after receiving the information and demanded Kannada songs be played during the live concert. AI-generated image used for representation A live music performance at Forum Mall in Bengaluru was briefly interrupted after members of the pro-Kannada organisation Karnataka Rakshana Vedike objected to the programme on language grounds. The group claimed the event had no Kannada name board and featured only Tamil songs without including Kannada music. Acting on the information, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike state president Praveen Shetty entered the venue and asked organisers to stop the Tamil songs and play Kannada songs instead. Mall authorities informed local police about the situation over the phone. Personnel from the Koramangala police station soon reached the spot to manage the matter. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 08:41 IST News bengaluru-news No Kannada Name Board, Only Tamil Songs: Pro-Kannada Group Disrupts Bengaluru Concert Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'I Am A Thakur, Dont Mess With Me': Bank Employee Abuses Customer During Heated Argument In UP Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 09:11 IST Aastha Singh, an HDFC Bank employee, sparked outrage after a viral video showed her abusing a customer and flaunting caste, prompting calls for action. Rapid Read Screengrab from the viral video. (Image: X/@SurajKrBauddh) Dramatic scenes unfolded inside an HDFC Bank branch in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur after a female employee got involved in a heated altercation with a customer. A video capturing the tense situation has surfaced on social media. In the footage, the employee, identified as Aastha Singh, was seen hurling abuses at the customer, sparking widespread outrage over unprofessional and caste-based arrogance. Thakur hoon main, bakchodi mat karna mere se." Astha Singh, an HDFC employee, flaunted her caste on the bank premises and tried to beat a customer without any shame. This Manu Ki Naatin has only merit of hate. HDFC must kick out this casteist clown now. pic.twitter.com/MVFND1m1y4 Suraj Kumar Bauddh (@SurajKrBauddh) February 8, 2026 The incident took place at Panki area of the city. The clip also showed Singh threatening the man by violently pointing a laptop at him. Singh allegedly said, I am a Thakur, dont mess with me," a remark that has drawn sharp criticism for its caste-based undertone and unprofessional conduct. Netizens have expressed anger over the incident, calling it a clear violation of professional ethics and customer rights. Many have demanded strict disciplinary action against the employee. The viral video has also surfaced on X. Commenting on the video, a user wrote, Well @HDFC_Bank @HDFCBank_Cares is that how you take care of customers wow thats great." @HDFCBank_Cares see your employee behaviour," another user commented. Hope a case has been filed against her and departmental enquiry initiated. She should be removed for the job. Pathetic behaviour," a third comment read. So far, HDFC Bank has not issued an official statement regarding the matter. The incident has raised questions about workplace training, customer handling, and the prevalence of caste-based arrogance in professional institutions. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Kanpur Nagar, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:11 IST News cities kanpur 'I Am A Thakur, Dont Mess With Me': Bank Employee Abuses Customer During Heated Argument In UP Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Karnataka Woman Tortured, Forced Into Prostitution By In-Laws, Dies By Suicide Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 12:21 IST A 22-year-old woman died allegedly by suicide after being harassed and abused by her in-laws and forced into prostitution. A woman from Karnataka's Bidar district allegedly died by suicide over domestic abuse, harassment by in-laws (Image credit: X/@HateDetectors) A 22-year-old woman died allegedly by suicide after being harassed and abused by her in-laws and forced into prostitution, NDTV reported. Anjanabai Shekhar Patil, a native of Bhalki in Karnatakas Bidar district, was found hanging at her in-laws home in Basavakalyan in the same district. She was married to Shekhar Patil, whose family belonged to Basavakalyan. The couple has a 11-month-old infant, said the report. Based on complaints from the deceaseds father, Vijaykumar, the police filed a case alleging persistent mental and physical torture by her in-laws, who reportedly pressured her into prostitution and subjected her to domestic abuse, leading to intense mental trauma. According to the NDTV report, Vijaykumar alleged his daughter had been subjected to assault for refusing illicit relationships. The police have booked three accused, including the womans husband, Shekhar Patil. Two other family members have been named accused. All three have been arrested and a further investigation is underway. Suicide Prevention. News 18. If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Bidar, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 12:21 IST News cities Karnataka Woman Tortured, Forced Into Prostitution By In-Laws, Dies By Suicide Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Kolkata Police Stations To Get Ramps To Provide Easy Access To Senior Citizens Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 19:41 IST Installation has been completed at 10 police stations, and ramps are expected to be installed at all identified stations within this week Sources told News18 that work on ramp construction has already started. (News18) The Kolkata Police have begun installing ramps across police stations in the city for easy access for senior citizens and the specially abled. Sources told News18 that work on ramp construction has already started. Kolkata has a total of 80 police stations, of which 55 require ramps due to structural constraints. Installation has been completed at 10 police stations, and ramps are expected to be installed at all identified stations within this week. The initiative has been introduced under the leadership of the new Kolkata Police Commissioner, Supratim Sarkar. Speaking to News18, Sarkar said, Constructing ramps at Kolkata Police stations is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is a fundamental requirement for justice and dignity. For the elderly and specially abled, a police station is often the first point of contact for seeking protection or reporting a grievance. If the building itself is inaccessible, the law effectively shuts its doors to them. The elderly and those using walkers or canes are at high risk of injury on steep or uneven stairs. Ramps provide a smooth, slip-resistant ease of movement." After taking charge, the Commissioner visited several police divisions and instructed officers to focus on public behaviour, acknowledging a perception that lower-level police personnel often face complaints regarding conduct. Kolkata has a large senior citizen population, and in many cases, their children live abroad. Police officials believe the ramp initiative will significantly help elderly residents access police services independently and safely. In a separate effort to assess ground-level policing, sources said the Commissioner personally visited two police stations in disguise, posing as a common citizen who had lost his mobile phone. The visits were aimed at observing how police personnel interact with the public. The identity of the visitor was revealed only later. Sources within Kolkata Police told News18 that people-friendly policing is a key priority, and initiatives like accessible police stations are expected to strengthen public trust in the force. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 19:34 IST News kolkata-news Kolkata Police Stations To Get Ramps To Provide Easy Access To Senior Citizens Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Minor Hits Two-Wheeler With His Car In Mumbais Vidyavihar, Couple Critical Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 18:20 IST The victims family has alleged that the accused often performed stunts using the same car and uploaded videos on social media. Rapid Read According to police sources, the accused minor has been sent to a remand home. A hit-and-run incident involving a minor was reported at Pipeline Road near Vidyavihar station, where a 17-year-old driving a car allegedly rammed into a two-wheeler on Sunday. The two-wheeler was being ridden by a couple, Dhrumil and Minal Patel, who were travelling on an Activa. Both sustained critical injuries and are currently undergoing treatment, family sources said. Following the incident, family members and friends of the victims launched a social media campaign, drawing parallels between the case and the Pune Porsche incident. According to police sources, the accused minor has been sent to a remand home. Further investigation is underway, though the police have declined to comment on the matter on camera. The victims family has alleged that the accused often performed stunts using the same car and uploaded videos on social media. The Pune Porsche crash occurred on May 19, 2024, when a 17-year-old, allegedly driving a Porsche car under the influence of alcohol, hit a man and a woman on a motorbike in Punes Kalyani Nagar area. Both victims, Aneesh Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta, died on the spot. The juveniles parents, along with government hospital doctors and others, were later arrested for allegedly trying to tamper with his blood samples to indicate that he was not intoxicated at the time of the crash. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 18:01 IST News mumbai-news Minor Hits Two-Wheeler With His Car In Mumbais Vidyavihar, Couple Critical Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbai Woman Dead After Fire Breaks Out On 13th Floor Of Vile Parle Building Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:28 IST A fire at Suvidha Pearl Building in Vile Parle East, Mumbai killed a woman. Fire engines responded and victims were taken to Nanavati hospital. Fire breaks out in Suvidha Pearl Building at Vile Parle. (Photo: X) An elderly woman lost her life and another was injured when a fire broke out in a 13-storey building in Mumbai on Monday morning. The blaze ignited on the 13th floor of Suvidha Pearl Building in Vile Parle (East) at 9.51 am. Authorities dispatched at least five fire engines to the scene, where firefighting efforts were quickly underway. Two women sustained injuries and were taken to Nanavati hospital. Unfortunately, one of the victims, identified as 63-year-old Bhavna Satra, was declared dead by doctors. Fire erupts on the top floor of a 13 storey residential building in Vile Parle.Cause of fire yet to be known. No casualties reported. pic.twitter.com/O8cYrz2E7Q Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) February 9, 2026 The cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 17:28 IST News mumbai-news Mumbai Woman Dead After Fire Breaks Out On 13th Floor Of Vile Parle Building Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbais Pink Blossoms In Danger? Over 700 Trees May Face Axe For GhatkoparThane Corridor Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:03 IST Over 700 trees, including 125 Pink Trumpet trees, face removal for the GhatkoparThane corridor, sparking protests and NGT action. Over 700 trees, including 125 Pink Trumpet trees, face removal for the GhatkoparThane corridor, sparking protests and NGT action. More than 700 trees, including around 125 iconic Pink Trumpet (Tabebuia) trees, face removal along Mumbais Eastern Express Highway as part of the proposed GhatkoparThane elevated corridor, prompting environmental activists to approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT). For years, the VikhroliGhatkopar stretch of the highway has turned into a seasonal spectacle every February and March, when rows of Pink Trumpet trees burst into bloom, earning the area the nickname of Mumbais own cherry blossom" corridor. The brief display draws commuters, photographers and walkers who pause amid traffic to soak in the rare burst of colour along an otherwise concrete-heavy road. Also Read: Mumbai Has Its Own Cherry Blossom, Just Like Japan: Check Location, How To Reach, Is There A Ticket? That identity, residents fear, may soon vanish. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has begun work on a 12.95-km elevated road connecting Chedda Nagar in Ghatkopar to Anand Nagar in Thane. The project aims to significantly cut travel time and ease congestion on one of the citys busiest corridors. However, its environmental footprint has sparked concern, with over 700 trees marked for cutting or transplantation. Environmental activist Sagar Devre, a petitioner in an ongoing case before the NGT, told Mumbai Mirror he will specifically highlight the loss of the Pink Trumpet trees at the next hearing scheduled for February 27. This stretch has become the identity of this road. If these trees are cut, the city will lose something irreplaceable not just ecologically, but culturally," he said, arguing that infrastructure convenience should not erase years of natural growth that offer visual and mental relief to commuters. According to the proposal, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), acting as the citys Tree Authority, issued notices for tree cutting after the MMRDA sought permission. Officials have said compensatory measures include transplanting some trees to the Bhandup Complex water purification plant and along the Sanjay Gandhi National Park boundary, as well as planting over 4,000 saplings. Local residents and civic groups remain unconvinced. Mario Rodrigues of the Vikhrolikar Vikas Manch spoke to Mumbai Mirror, that the trees enhance Mumbais beauty and local ecology and urged authorities to explore alternatives that could preserve them at the same location. Their removal would deeply affect the areas environmental and aesthetic value," he said. Urban planners caution that while new infrastructure is essential for a growing city, cutting mature trees that provide canopy, biodiversity and temperature regulation should be a last resort. A senior civic official, however, said that since the matter is pending before the NGT, authorities cannot comment in detail, adding that not all trees along the stretch may ultimately be felled. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 17:03 IST News cities mumbai-news Mumbais Pink Blossoms In Danger? Over 700 Trees May Face Axe For GhatkoparThane Corridor Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Ahead Of Board Exams, Yogi Adityanath Urges Students To Stay Safe, Focus On Studies Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 14:08 IST UP CM Yogi Adityanath advised students to avoid Chinese manjha, limit mobile use and stay focused ahead of board exams. UP CM Yogi Adityanath advises students to avoid manjha and mobile addiction ahead of exams. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday urged students to focus on safety, health and studies ahead of the upcoming board examinations. In a letter addressed to students, he shared three key messages. The Chief Minister warned students against using Chinese manjha, a sharp-edged kite string that is banned in the state and has caused several fatal accidents. He asked them not to use it, caution friends and inform the police about any illegal sale with the help of their families. He also cautioned students about excessive mobile phone use. He said long hours of gaming and video watching waste time, affect studies and harm eyesight. Instead, he encouraged them to read books, play outdoor games, spend time with family and limit screen usage. For students appearing in Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations, the Chief Minister advised them to remain disciplined, confident and focused. Referring to the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, he said, A person has the right only over their actions, not their results," and urged students to concentrate on hard work and dedication. Yogi Adityanath extended his best wishes to all students appearing in the exams and expressed hope that they would perform well and make their families and the state proud. ALSO READ: Pariksha Pe Charcha: From Exams To Health Tips, What PM Modi Advised Students In Episode 2 Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed students today in the second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026. During the interaction, he spoke about exam preparation, managing stress, healthy habits, technology use and career choices, while answering questions from students across the country. From study routines and sleep to startups and artificial intelligence, the session covered a wide range of issues related to student life ahead of the board exam season. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 14:08 IST News education-career Ahead Of Board Exams, Yogi Adityanath Urges Students To Stay Safe, Focus On Studies Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... IIT Madras Launches BS In Aeronautics And Space Technology; No JEE Required Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:11 IST IIT Madras has launched an online BS in Aeronautics and Space Technology. Open to Class 12 pass students without JEE, the course offers flexible learning and internship support. IIT Madras launches online BS in Aeronautics and Space Technology, open to Class 12 pass students without JEE. The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has launched a new undergraduate programme, BS in Aeronautics and Space Technology. The skill-based course will be offered in online mode and aims to train students in analysis and design related to aeronautics, space systems and allied sectors. The programme was launched on campus on February 9 in the presence of IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti, with Dr. D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and Dr. V. Sumantran, former chairman of IndiGo, joining virtually. The course has been introduced to address the growing demand for trained professionals in sectors such as unmanned aerial vehicles, civil aviation and space technology. IIT Madras said internship and placement support will be provided through its Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE). The programme is open to anyone who has passed Class 12 or equivalent, including diploma holders. There is no cap on enrolment and students do not need to qualify IIT-JEE to apply. Learners can study at a flexible pace within defined timelines, making it suitable for working professionals and students pursuing another degree. Examinations will be held on Sundays, with both centre-based and online proctored assessments. Announcing the launch, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, Aeronautics and space technology are exponentially growing sectors that need specialised man power for employment. This BS program is yet another effort taken by IIT Madras to democratise opportunity to all to enter these sectors." Graduates are expected to find opportunities in public sector units, global aerospace companies, start-ups and engineering firms. Potential recruiters include Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Mishra Dhatu Nigam, GE Aerospace, Boeing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Honeywell, Ansys and Siemens. The course will also prepare students for GATE and higher studies at IITs and IISc. Course coordinator Prof. HSN Murthy from the Department of Aerospace Engineering said, We are confident that this programme will fulfil the demand for good quality engineering graduates in aeronautics, space technology and energy sectors, who will propel India towards becoming a developed nation through their innovation." Prof. Sriram Rengarajan, another course coordinator, added, These graduates will be well trained in critical skills which will enable our nation to develop indigenous technology for our internal consumption as well as for the export market, thereby driving economic growth." The programme will combine theory and practical learning. Core theory subjects will be taught through recorded lectures and supported by live tutorial sessions and online discussions. Laboratory courses conducted at the IIT Madras campus will provide exposure to facilities such as wind tunnels and mechanical testing. Following the National Education Policy, the course offers multiple exit options at the foundation, diploma and BS degree levels. Diploma-level students will work on projects using tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics and Finite Element Method, along with internship opportunities through industry partnerships. ALSO READ: NEET UG 2026 Registration: How To Apply For Entrance Test At neet.nta.nic.in At the BS level, students will complete a capstone project involving the design of an aircraft or spacecraft. Top performers at the diploma stage may be invited to transition to on-campus study, and high achievers may join MS programmes at IIT Madras without a GATE score, subject to prescribed criteria. The institute said the programme is aligned with Indias plans to expand aircraft manufacturing and defence and space exports. Fee waivers of up to 75 per cent will be available for eligible low-income students. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:10 IST News education-career IIT Madras Launches BS In Aeronautics And Space Technology; No JEE Required Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... PPC 2026: 'You Can Begin Anytime, Even With Small Ideas,' PM Modi Shares Startup Mantra Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 11:05 IST In Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, PM Modi encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship, saying startups can begin at any age and even small ideas can grow with interest and guidance. PM Narendra Modi interacts with students during the second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday interacted with students, teachers and parents in the second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, which streamed on his YouTube channel. The recorded session covered exams, technology, careers and handling pressure, with the Prime Minister responding to questions from students across the country. There is no fixed age you can begin anytime: PM Modi on startups Speaking about entrepreneurship, Modi noted the growing interest among young people in startups and encouraged them to begin early if they have genuine interest. Whenever I meet young people today, many of them talk about startups. The first thing you should focus on is what you truly want to do. Some startups are based on technological innovation, building drones and new energy solutions for homes. You might know friends who are technology experts, others who understand finance. Together, you can form a small team and begin on the side. There is no fixed age, like 25 years, to start a startup. You can begin anytime, even with small ideas. If you are genuinely interested, that is a great start. Visit people who are already running startups, observe their work, and prepare a project report. Tell them you are still in school and working on a project. They will guide you. Gradually, you will gain practical knowledge about how startups work and how you can build one yourself," he said. He also advised students to connect with industry experts and understand how real-world work functions before starting a venture, saying such exposure provides clarity and confidence. There is no need to be scared of AI: PM Modi on technology Responding to a question on artificial intelligence, the Prime Minister asked students not to fear technology and not to let AI or mobile phones become their master". We will have to understand technology and make sure it adds value to our work. If that happens, there is no need to be scared of AI," he said. Education and passion are not two different things: PM Modi on learning On balancing interests and academics, Modi encouraged students to combine their passions with studies. Education and passion are not two different things; both are useful. Suppose you have an interest in art and are studying a science subject that involves laboratory work and mixing chemicals. What you can do is take a sheet of paper and draw a laboratory setup. Paint the lab, label each bottle with the name of the chemical, and then illustrate what happens when certain chemicals are mixed to produce specific colours. By doing this, your artwork is completed and, at the same time, you remember the lesson better. This way, you can combine both interests effectively and learn them together in a very meaningful manner," he said. Focus on sleep and answer-writing practice during exams, PM advises student The Prime Minister underlined the importance of maintaining a healthy routine during exam season, saying proper sleep helps students stay focused and stress-free. He also suggested regularly practising writing answers, noting that it improves clarity, time management and confidence during the actual examination. ALSO READ: Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026: Dont Let AI Or Mobile Become Your Master, PM Modi To Students Modi further spoke about discipline and motivation, saying inspiration alone cannot produce results without consistent effort and timely action. He also highlighted students role in building a Viksit Bharat 2047", encouraging responsible habits such as reducing food wastage and following basic civic behaviour. The session also stressed supporting classmates and managing exam pressure with confidence. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:05 IST News education-career PPC 2026: 'You Can Begin Anytime, Even With Small Ideas,' PM Modi Shares Startup Mantra Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Studying At IISc To Cost More: BS Fees Hiked By 700%, New Rate Announced Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 13:14 IST The increase will impact only new entrants to the BS programme from 202627 academic year. Students currently pursuing the course will continue to pay fees as per old structure. In 2025, IISc admitted around 138 students to the programme, including supernumerary and international candidates. Image: X As higher education institutions periodically reassess costs to align with academic and operational needs, fee structures are often revised after long gaps. Such reviews typically affect only new admissions and are accompanied by assurances on financial support for eligible students. One such revision has now been announced by the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. The Indian Institute of Science has decided to significantly increase the tuition fee for its four-year Bachelor of Science programme. The annual fee will be raised from Rs 10,000 to Rs 80,000, marking a steep increase after the fee remained unchanged for more than a decade. The revised fee structure will come into effect from the 202627 academic year and will apply only to students who join the programme from that batch onward. Existing students enrolled in the BS programme will not be affected by the hike. Why the Fee Has Been Increased According to institute officials, the decision to revise the fee was taken after internal review and discussions, keeping in mind the rising cost of delivering high-quality education. The BS programme was launched in 2011, and the fee had remained at Rs 10,000 per year since then. Officials said the revised fee brings IIScs undergraduate charges closer to those of other leading institutions offering comparable programmes, while helping the institute sustain academic resources, infrastructure and teaching quality. Who Will Be Affected The increase will impact only new entrants to the BS programme from the 202627 academic year. Students currently pursuing the course will continue to pay fees as per the old structure. Admissions to the BS programme are highly competitive. Students are selected through national-level entrance examinations such as JEE Advanced and the IISER Aptitude Test. In 2025, IISc admitted around 138 students to the programme, including supernumerary and international candidates. Support for Students from Weaker Sections IISc has said that the fee revision will not affect its commitment to inclusivity. Financial assistance and fee support will continue to be available for students from reserved categories and economically weaker sections. Officials indicated that scholarships, fee waivers and other forms of aid will remain in place to ensure that talented students are not discouraged from applying due to financial constraints. Possible Changes to Other Programmes The institute has also indicated that fees for some postgraduate and doctoral programmes may be revised in the future, though details of those changes have not yet been announced. IISc said further information regarding fee structures and financial support mechanisms will be shared closer to the admission cycle, allowing prospective students to plan accordingly. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:14 IST News education-career Studying At IISc To Cost More: BS Fees Hiked By 700%, New Rate Announced Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Why Is The Company That Conducts SSC Exams Suing A YouTuber For Rs 2.5 Crore? Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 18:03 IST Eduquity Technologies filed a Rs 2.5 crore defamation suit against YouTuber Nitish Rajput in Delhi over SSC exam transparency claims, seeking video removal Rapid Read In his video, Nitish Rajput questioned the SSC tender process and the selection of the examination vendor A legal battle has erupted over the conduct and transparency of a national-level recruitment examination, with a private technology firm taking a prominent YouTuber to court over alleged defamation. Eduquity Technologies Pvt Ltd, the company responsible for conducting examinations for the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), has filed a defamation suit worth Rs 2.5 crore against YouTuber Nitish Rajput in a Delhi court. The case stems from a video in which Rajput questioned the SSC tender process and the selection of the examination vendor, citing information obtained through RTI replies and other documents. In the video, Rajput pointed to changes in rules and flagged operational concerns, suggesting that such issues could potentially affect the fairness and integrity of the examination system. The company, however, has strongly objected to these claims. Eduquity Technologies has alleged that the content shared in the video is misleading and has caused reputational damage to the firm. The company has sought financial compensation and has also urged the court to direct the removal of the video from public platforms. Rajput, on his part, has refused to take the video down. According to reports by Moneycontrol, he has maintained that his analysis is based on verified public records and reflects the concerns raised by candidates across several examinations. Nitish Rajput is a popular content creator with a significant digital presence, having over 47 lakh subscribers on YouTube and more than 1.5 million followers on Instagram. Born on October 4, 1989, in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, he completed his BTech from Gautam Buddha Nagar University. His father ran an internet service provider firm, while his mother was a homemaker. He spent his early years in Rudrapur before his family later moved to Delhi. While there is no officially confirmed figure regarding his wealth, several websites estimate his net worth to be between Rs 86.79 crore and Rs 127 crore. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 18:03 IST News education-career Why Is The Company That Conducts SSC Exams Suing A YouTuber For Rs 2.5 Crore? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Ratnagiri Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: SS: 29, BJP: 7, INC: 6, NCP: 5, SSUBT: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:11 IST Follow this page for Ratnagiri result of the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad election and which party will gain how many seats from this district. Map location of Ratnagiri in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla parishad election. (Image: News18 Elections) In the Ratnagiri Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election 2026, SS wins on 29, BJP wins on 7, INC wins on 6, NCP wins on 5, SSUBT wins on 0, NCPSP wins on 0 MNS wins on 0 at 09:11 PM according to the latest data from News18 Live Results Hub.Follow this page for the live election result of Ratnagiri in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad. The headline and description of this live updating article will reflect the latest trends as received by News18 Marathi. Keep following this page for all realtime updates on the election result for this district. Click here for detailed Maharashtra Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Election Result tally 2026 The counting of votes for Ratnagiri zilla Parishad took place on February 9, 2026. ABOUT Ratnagiri district consists of 9 Panchayat Samitis in total. The district has a population of 16,15,069, comprising 7,61,121 males and 8,53,948 females. The overall literacy rate of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is 82.18%, with 90.93% of males and 74.53% of females being literate. Around 83.67% of the districts population lives in rural areas. LOCATION Ratnagiri district forms part of the traditional Konkan region along the western coast. It is located between 1613N1804N latitudes and 7302E7352E longitudes. Raigad lies to the north, Sindhudurg to the south, the Arabian Sea to the west, and Satara, Sangli, and Kolhapur districts to the east. POLL DATES The gazette notification for the Ratnagiri zilla Parishad was issued on 16 January 2026 (Friday), the last date of scrutiny of nominations was 21 January 2026 (Wednesday) and the last date of withdrawal of nominations was 26 January 2026 (Monday). This district voted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 and the counting of votes is happening on Monday, February 9, 2026. PREVIOUS ELECTION RESULTS The last elections of the Ratnagiri zilla Parishad were held in 2017, in which the Nationalist Congress Party secured 15 seats. The Indian National Congress won one seat, while Shiv Sena secured 39 seats. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:50 IST News elections Ratnagiri Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: SS: 29, BJP: 7, INC: 6, NCP: 5, SSUBT: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Sangli Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: NCPSP: 18, BJP: 16, SSUBT: 11, SS: 7, NCP: 6, INC: 1, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:11 IST Follow this page for Sangli result of the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad election and which party will gain how many seats from this district. Map location of Sangli in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla parishad election. (Image: News18 Elections) In the Sangli Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election 2026, NCPSP wins on 18, BJP wins on 16, SSUBT wins on 11, SS wins on 7, NCP wins on 6, INC wins on 1 MNS wins on 0 at 09:11 PM according to the latest data from News18 Live Results Hub.Follow this page for the live election result of Sangli in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad. The headline and description of this live updating article will reflect the latest trends as received by News18 Marathi. Keep following this page for all realtime updates on the election result for this district. Click here for detailed Maharashtra Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Election Result tally 2026 The counting of votes for Sangli zilla Parishad took place on February 9, 2026. ABOUT Sangli district consists of 10 Panchayat Samitis in total. The district has a population of 28,22,143, comprising 14,35,728 males and 13,86,415 females. The overall literacy rate of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is 81.48%, with 88.22% of males and 74.59% of females being literate. Around 74.51% of the districts population lives in rural areas. LOCATION Sangli, one of the southwestern districts of Maharashtra, extends from 1645N1733N latitudes and 7342E7540E longitudes. It is bordered by Satara and Solapur to the north, Karnataka to the east and south, Kolhapur to the southwest, and shares a small boundary with Ratnagiri to the west. POLL DATES The gazette notification for the Sangli zilla Parishad was issued on 16 January 2026 (Friday), the last date of scrutiny of nominations was 21 January 2026 (Wednesday) and the last date of withdrawal of nominations was 26 January 2026 (Monday). This district voted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 and the counting of votes is happening on Monday, February 9, 2026. PREVIOUS ELECTION RESULTS The last elections of the Sangli zilla Parishad were held in 2017, in which the Nationalist Congress Party secured 14 seats. The Indian National Congress won 10 seats, while Shiv Sena secured three seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 23 seats, and four independent candidates were also elected to the Sangli zilla Parishad. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:51 IST News elections Sangli Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: NCPSP: 18, BJP: 16, SSUBT: 11, SS: 7, NCP: 6, INC: 1, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Satara Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 27, NCP: 20, SS: 15, SSUBT: 1, INC: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:11 IST Follow this page for Satara result of the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad election and which party will gain how many seats from this district. Map location of Satara in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla parishad election. (Image: News18 Elections) In the Satara Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election 2026, BJP wins on 27, NCP wins on 20, SS wins on 15, SSUBT wins on 1, INC wins on 0, NCPSP wins on 0 MNS wins on 0 at 09:11 PM according to the latest data from News18 Live Results Hub.Follow this page for the live election result of Satara in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad. The headline and description of this live updating article will reflect the latest trends as received by News18 Marathi. Keep following this page for all realtime updates on the election result for this district. Click here for detailed Maharashtra Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Election Result tally 2026 The counting of votes for Satara zilla Parishad took place on February 9, 2026. ABOUT Satara district consists of 11 Panchayat Samitis in total. The district has a population of 30,03,741, comprising 15,10,842 males and 14,92,899 females. The overall literacy rate of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is 82.87%, with 89.42% of males and 76.31% of females being literate. Around 81.01% of the districts population lives in rural areas. LOCATION Satara district is positioned along the western edge of the Deccan Plateau in southern Maharashtra. The region falls within the drainage system of the Krishna River and also includes parts of the Bhima basin. It stretches between 1705N1811N latitudes and 7333E7454E longitudes. Pune lies to the north, Solapur to the east, Sangli to the south, and Ratnagiri to the west, with a short boundary adjoining Raigad in the northwest. POLL DATES The gazette notification for the Satara zilla Parishad was issued on 16 January 2026 (Friday), the last date of scrutiny of nominations was 21 January 2026 (Wednesday) and the last date of withdrawal of nominations was 26 January 2026 (Monday). This district voted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 and the counting of votes is happening on Monday, February 9, 2026. PREVIOUS ELECTION RESULTS The last elections of the Satara zilla Parishad were held in 2017, in which the Nationalist Congress Party secured 39 seats. The Indian National Congress won seven seats, while Shiv Sena secured two seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party won seven seats, and two independent candidates were also elected to the Satara zilla Parishad. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:51 IST News elections Satara Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 27, NCP: 20, SS: 15, SSUBT: 1, INC: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Sindhudurg Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 27, SS: 14, INC: 3, NCP: 0, SSUBT: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:11 IST Follow this page for Sindhudurg result of the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad election and which party will gain how many seats from this district. Map location of Sindhudurg in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla parishad election. (Image: News18 Elections) In the Sindhudurg Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election 2026, BJP is leading on 16, SS is leading on 6, NCP is leading on 0, INC is leading on 0, SSUBT is leading on 0, NCPSP is leading on 0, MNS is leading on 0 at 12:18 PM according to the latest data from News18 Live Results Hub. Follow this page for the live election result of Sindhudurg in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad. The headline and description of this live updating article will reflect the latest trends as received by News18 Marathi. Keep following this page for all realtime updates on the election result for this district. Click here for detailed Maharashtra Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Election Result tally 2026 The counting of votes for Sindhudurg zilla Parishad took place on February 9, 2026. ABOUT Sindhudurg district consists of 8 Panchayat Samitis in total. The district has a population of 8,49,651, comprising 4,17,332 males and 4,32,319 females. The overall literacy rate of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is 85.56%, with 91.58% of males and 79.81% of females being literate. Around 87.41% of the districts population lives in rural areas. LOCATION Sindhudurg, the southernmost district of Maharashtra, is located on the west coast of India. It spans 1537N1640N latitudes and 7319E7413E longitudes. Kolhapur borders it to the east, Ratnagiri to the north, while the Arabian Sea forms its western edge. Karnataka and Goa lie to the south, and the district enjoys a coastline of roughly 121 km. POLL DATES The gazette notification for the Sindhudurg zilla Parishad was issued on 16 January 2026 (Friday), the last date of scrutiny of nominations was 21 January 2026 (Wednesday) and the last date of withdrawal of nominations was 26 January 2026 (Monday). This district voted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 and the counting of votes is happening on Monday, February 9, 2026. PREVIOUS ELECTION RESULTS The last elections of the Sindhudurg zilla Parishad were held in 2017, in which the Nationalist Congress Party secured one seat. The Indian National Congress won 27 seats, while Shiv Sena secured 16 seats. Six Bharatiya Janata Party candidates were also elected to the Sindhudurg zilla Parishad. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:51 IST News elections Sindhudurg Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 27, SS: 14, INC: 3, NCP: 0, SSUBT: 0, NCPSP: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Solapur Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 38, NCP: 10, SS: 8, NCPSP: 6, INC: 0, SSUBT: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:11 IST Follow this page for Solapur result of the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad election and which party will gain how many seats from this district. Map location of Solapur in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla parishad election. (Image: News18 Elections) In the Solapur Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election 2026, BJP wins on 38, NCP wins on 10, SS wins on 8, NCPSP wins on 6, INC wins on 0, SSUBT wins on 0 MNS wins on 0 at 09:11 PM according to the latest data from News18 Live Results Hub.Follow this page for the live election result of Solapur in the 2026 Maharashtra zilla Parishad. The headline and description of this live updating article will reflect the latest trends as received by News18 Marathi. Keep following this page for all realtime updates on the election result for this district. Click here for detailed Maharashtra Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Election Result tally 2026 The counting of votes for Solapur zilla Parishad took place on February 9, 2026. ABOUT Solapur district consists of 11 Panchayat Samitis in total. The district has a population of 43,17,756, comprising 22,27,852 males and 20,89,904 females. The overall literacy rate of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is 77.02%, with 85.03% of males and 68.55% of females being literate. Around 67.6% of the districts population lives in rural areas. LOCATION Solapur district lies in southern Maharashtra and is largely drained by the Bhima, Nira, Sina, and Man river systems. It extends between 1710N1832N latitudes and 7442E7615E longitudes. The district is bounded by Ahmadnagar to the north, Dharashiv to the northeast, Karnataka to the southeast, Sangli to the southwest, Satara to the west, and Pune to the northwest. POLL DATES The gazette notification for the Solapur zilla Parishad was issued on 16 January 2026 (Friday), the last date of scrutiny of nominations was 21 January 2026 (Wednesday) and the last date of withdrawal of nominations was 26 January 2026 (Monday). This district voted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 and the counting of votes is happening on Monday, February 9, 2026. PREVIOUS ELECTION RESULTS The last elections of the Solapur zilla Parishad were held in 2017, in which the Nationalist Congress Party secured 23 seats. The Indian National Congress won seven seats, while Shiv Sena secured five seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 14 seats, and seven independent candidates were also elected to the Solapur zilla Parishad. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:51 IST News elections Solapur Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Election Results 2026 LIVE: BJP: 38, NCP: 10, SS: 8, NCPSP: 6, INC: 0, SSUBT: 0, MNS: 0 at 09:11 PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Zila Parishad Results Reflect Maharashtras Support For BJP, Mahayuti: PM Modi Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 20:41 IST PM Modi praised Mahayuti workers for their grassroots efforts, saying they had worked tirelessly to highlight the performance of the Maharashtra government. PM Modi with Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis | File Image Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the results of the Maharashtra Zila Parishad elections reflect the peoples continued faith in the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, describing the mandate as a vote for good governance across both rural and urban parts of the state. PM Modi also praised Mahayuti workers for their grassroots efforts, saying they had worked tirelessly to highlight the performance of the Maharashtra government and the NDAs broader vision. Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti," said PM Modi, noting that following the alliances strong showing in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the Zila Parishad results had delivered another clear endorsement. Across rural and urban Maharashtra, the people of the state want good governance and an alliance which works in the spirit of Maharashtras glorious culture," he said, expressing gratitude to the people of the state. My compliments to every worker of the Mahayuti for elaborating on our solid track record and commitment to good governance," he added. Once again, Maharashtra blesses BJP and Mahayuti!After the resounding success of the BJP and Mahayuti in the Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council elections, the people of Maharashtra have given a strong mandate to us in the Zilla Parishad elections. It is clear that Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2026 According to the latest trends, results have been declared for 587 of the 731 Zila Parishad seats, with the ruling Mahayuti alliance registering a commanding lead. The BJP has emerged as the single-largest party, winning 208 seats so far. It is followed by the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party with 126 seats and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena with 120 seats. Together, the Mahayuti alliance has secured 454 seats. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has so far won a total of 103 seats. The Congress is leading on 46 seats, Shiv Sena (UBT) on 38, and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP on 19 seats. Other parties and independent candidates have collectively secured 30 seats. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the results show that voters have once again expressed confidence in the Mahayuti alliance. He noted that the BJP has emerged as the number one party across urban, semi-urban and rural Maharashtra. Counting of votes is still underway in some districts, but the trends point to a decisive victory for the BJP-led Mahayuti in the local body polls. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 20:30 IST News elections Zila Parishad Results Reflect Maharashtras Support For BJP, Mahayuti: PM Modi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mandelson Row: Who Could Succeed Britains Keir Starmer If He Resigns? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 14:24 IST The Mandelson controversy and the departure of his chief of staff have pushed Starmer into a leadership crisis, reviving talk of potential successors. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. (REUTERS) British PM Keir Starmer is heading into a difficult week after the resignation of his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, over the Mandelson scandal that triggered open unrest across Labour. The departure of one of his most senior aides has intensified scrutiny of his leadership and emboldened MPs who were already raising concerns about his judgement. Starmer is expected to face angry Labour Party MPs as he prepares to address the Parliamentary Labour Party, under growing pressure to explain how the situation unfolded and whether he can reassert control. How A Misjudged Appointment Put Starmers Leadership Under Pressure McSweeney stepped down after taking full responsibility" for advising Starmer to appoint Peter Mandelson, a long-established Labour grandee, as the UKs ambassador to the United States. After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the government. The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself," Morgan McSweeney said in a statement. I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice," he added. Mandelsons longstanding ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, which continued even after Epsteins conviction for child sex offences, turned the appointment into a political storm that has now engulfed Downing Street. This week, Starmer is expected to confront a Parliamentary Labour Party meeting reported by the Independent as one where he will face angry MPs. Critics inside Labour argue that although McSweeney accepted responsibility, the final decision on Mandelsons appointment was the prime ministers. The situation is set to escalate further. Tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents related to the appointment will be released by the government in a process expected to unfold over months. Starmer reportedly believes this material will show that Mandelson misled officials about the extent of his ties to Epstein. Starmer on Thursday apologised to victims of Epstein for appointing Mandelson to the prestigious diplomatic post. The apology came as opposition parties called for his resignation and some Labour lawmakers questioned his judgement. I am sorry," Starmer said in London, addressing Epsteins victims. Sorry for what was done to you, sorry that so many people with power failed you, sorry for having believed Mandelsons lies and appointed him." The Fallout Inside Labour After McSweeneys Exit In responding to McSweeneys resignation, Starmer praised his longtime advisers dedication, loyalty and leadership" and said he owed him a debt of gratitude", without referring directly to the scandal. Two senior aides, Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson, have been appointed joint acting chiefs of staff, but that move has not eased the wider unrest. Labour MP Rachael Maskell called McSweeneys departure a start" and said, If he hasnt understood the seriousness of the situation, then I think he will find it very difficult to continue." Left-wing MPs including Brian Leishman, Ian Byrne and Kim Johnson have gone further, suggesting Starmer should consider resigning. There is also pressure from unions. Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright has said Starmer should step down, while Maryam Eslamdoust stated, Theres no case for waiting until May Its time to elect a new leader." Some political voices have urged restraint, warning that leadership turmoil could destabilise the government. Starmer ally John Slinger said the last thing the country needs is leadership speculations", and veteran Labour figure David Blunkett cautioned against a party acting like ferrets in a sack". What Happens If Labour Moves Against Starmer If Labour MPs decide to challenge the prime ministers position, the partys rules set out a clear but multi-stage process. One-fifth of Labours parliamentary party 81 MPs must first nominate an alternative candidate from among sitting Labour MPs. If that number is reached, the challenge formally triggers a leadership ballot. Once nominations close, any candidate who secures support from at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs appears on a wider party ballot alongside Starmer. That larger vote includes roughly 250,000 Labour Party members and affiliated supporters, such as trade unions, who would decide the outcome in a head-to-head contest. This structure means that removing a sitting prime minister does not require his resignation. A coordinated effort among MPs can force the process to begin even if the leader insists on staying. For Labour, the decision to trigger such a contest carries major risks: the party has only recently taken office, public confidence in political stability remains fragile, and a leadership battle could shape British politics for years if it replaces a governing prime minister mid-term. The Potential Successors If Starmer Falls Angela Rayner Angela Rayner, former deputy prime minister and Labour leader, has emerged as the leading candidate. Her odds strengthened after her intervention on 4 February, which compelled the government to give up control over which Mandelson-related documents would be released. Rayners background and political profile give her considerable reach within the party, though she resigned from the cabinet last September after failing to pay the correct taxes on a second home. Wes Streeting Until this week, health secretary Wes Streeting was viewed as Starmers most plausible rival. But his position has weakened. The Economist reports that press rumours of a leadership bid in November which he blamed on Downing Streets toxic culture" damaged trust on both sides. This week, his willingness to defend Mandelson, whom he described in September as not guilty by association", has also hurt him. Andy Burnham Andy Burnham, the mayor of Manchester, has seen his prospects weaken. His odds fell after Starmers allies on Labours National Executive Committee prevented him from standing in a by-election, limiting his path back to Parliament. Ed Miliband Environment secretary Ed Miliband, who led Labour during its wilderness years" in the early 2010s and now serves in the energy and net-zero portfolio, has seen his chances improve. Miliband is extremely popular among Labour members, and has previously served as Labour Leader in opposition to David Cameron, thus has leadership experience. He has also previously resisted Mandelsons return to front-line roles, once remarking, All of us believe in dignity in retirement." Shabana Mahmood Last on the list is Shabana Mahmood, the current home secretary, who has become known for her tough positions on immigration. In 2025, she introduced the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act, which expanded the governments powers to reduce illegal migration. One of its most controversial provisions, Section 52, enables the authorities to deport immigrants who commit crimes during their stay in the UK immediately, without trial and without sentencing. Mahmoods approach has made her popular with right-leaning voters. However, her ideological stance may limit her prospects of becoming Labour leader, as the party has historically succeeded when positioned closer to the centre rather than the right, making her overall chances relatively slim. A Shallow Bench Beyond these names, The Economist describes Labours talent pool as remarkably shallow", suggesting there are few obvious alternatives with the stature to stabilise the party. Where This Leaves Starmer Now Starmer now enters a period shaped by internal confrontation, the upcoming release of tens of thousands of documents linked to the Mandelson appointment, and growing unease within Labour. The disclosures are expected to continue for months, overlapping with local elections in May, creating an extended period of scrutiny for the government. Whether Starmer survives will depend on whether Labour concludes that replacing him restores control or risks further instability. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 14:24 IST News explainers Mandelson Row: Who Could Succeed Britains Keir Starmer If He Resigns? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Project Cheetah Leaps Forward: Birth Of 5 Cubs Takes Total To 35; 8 More Being Translocated Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 11:17 IST Project Cheetah explained: Aasha was translocated to India from Namibia. Eight additional cheetahs will arrive in the state from Botswana at the end of February Mukhi, the first Indian-born cheetah cub, at Kuno National Park (KNP), in Madhya Pradesh. (@byadavbjp/X via PTI) Cheetah Aasha recently gave birth to five cubs at Madhya Pradeshs Kuno National Park, taking the population to 35. Aasha was translocated to India from Namibia as part of the ambitious project to revive the population of the worlds fastest land animal in India, which had gone extinct decades ago. Kuno has witnessed a moment of pure pride as Aasha gives birth to five healthy cubs, strengthening Indias cheetah conservation journey. With this, the number of Indian-born cubs rises to 24, and the total cheetah population reaches 35," MP CM Mohan Yadav wrote on X. Environment minister Bhupender Yadav wrote: Kuno Welcomes the Birth of FIVE Cubs. Aashas legacy leaps forwardIndia welcomes her five adorable cubs! A moment of immense pride and joy for Project Cheetah as Aasha, the Namibian cheetah and a proud second-time mother, gave birth to five cubs on 7th February 2026 at Kuno National Park. With this, the tally of Indian-born surviving cubs rises to 24, marking the eighth successful cheetah litter on Indian soila significant milestone in Indias cheetah conservation journey, undertaken and nurtured under the environmentally-conscious leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji." Kuno Welcomes the Birth of FIVE Cubs Aashas legacy leaps forwardIndia welcomes her five adorable cubs! A moment of immense pride and joy for Project Cheetah as Aasha, the Namibian cheetah and a proud second-time mother, gave birth to five cubs on 7th February 2026 at pic.twitter.com/vTXFkZJoso Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) February 7, 2026 EIGHT MORE CHEETAHS ON THEIR WAY MP CM Mohan Yadav recently said that eight additional cheetahs would arrive in the state from Botswana at the end of February. CM Yadav also emphasised that he held detailed discussions with the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav regarding the required cooperation and arrangements for the cheetah reintroduction program. The Chief Minister met with Union Minister Yadav in New Delhi on Wednesday and discussed issues related to tourism development, expansion of reserve forests, and wildlife conservation in the state. After the meeting, he told reporters, We are transporting wild buffalo from Assam to Madhya Pradesh and need assistance with the relocation. Additionally, eight cheetahs will also arrive in MP from Botswana on February 28, and we discussed the necessary cooperation and arrangements for the arrival of the big cat." Kuno Welcomes the Birth of FIVE Cubs Aashas legacy leaps forwardIndia welcomes her five adorable cubs! A moment of immense pride and joy for Project Cheetah as Aasha, the Namibian cheetah and a proud second-time mother, gave birth to five cubs on 7th February 2026 at pic.twitter.com/vTXFkZJoso Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) February 7, 2026 WHAT IS INDIAS PROJECT CHEETAH? Indias Project Cheetah is a high-profile wildlife conservation and species reintroduction effort aimed at restoring cheetahs to Indias wild after the species was declared extinct in the country in 1952. It aims to reintroduce and establish a self-sustaining wild cheetah population in India. It began at Kuno National Park (Madhya Pradesh) was chosen as the primary site because it offers suitable grassland habitat and controlled conditions. TRANSLOCATION OF CHEETAHS Because the native Asiatic cheetah population had died out, India sourced African cheetahs (a different subspecies) from partner countries: Namibia: Indias first batch (8 cheetahs) was flown in September 2022. On September 17, 2022 which was also PM Modis birthday he personally released these cheetahs at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh into specially prepared enclosures to begin their acclimatisation. South Africa: A second batch (12 cheetahs) arrived in February 2023. Botswana: Additional cheetahs are being brought in 2026 to strengthen the population. These animals undergo quarantine and careful acclimatisation before being released into fenced or wild areas. WHY BIRTHS OF CUBS MATTER 1. Cheetahs were extinct in India for 70 years. Cubs being born means the African cheetahs have adapted to Indias climate, found enough prey, felt safe enough to breed. Thats the hardest part of any reintroduction. 2. Without cubs, cheetahs would survive only as managed animals. With cubs, India moves toward a self-sustaining wild population the core goal of Project Cheetah. 3. Cubs raised in India learn local hunting patterns, adapt better than translocated adults, are more likely to survive and reproduce later 4. Successful breeding shows grasslands are suitable, human disturbance is manageable, conservation planning wasnt just theoretical. It strengthens the case for expanding cheetahs to other reserves. 5. Cubs in India make Project Cheetah a global case study, a model for future wildlife restorations, and a diplomatic win for international conservation cooperation. With PTI, ANI Inputs News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 18:39 IST News explainers Project Cheetah Leaps Forward: Birth Of 5 Cubs Takes Total To 35; 8 More Being Translocated Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Was Jeffrey Epstein Trying To Create A Super Race? The Dark Side Of Transhumanism Revealed Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 12:04 IST Though transhumanism presents ground-breaking advancements, it challenges ethical and societal values. The integration of technology with humans raises questions about inequality The Epstein revelations act as a cautionary tale. The lesson is not to fear innovation but to question who controls it and for whose benefit it operates. (Getty Images) Jeffrey Epsteins files once brushed aside in some quarters as fringe conspiracy material have steadily turned into a Pandoras box, with each new disclosure surfacing unsettling accounts and unusual beliefs that are reigniting broader debates about power, privilege, and accountability. Epstein, the wealthy financier arrested in 2019 on charges of sexual abuse and trafficking of minors, died later that year in a federal jail. Fresh reporting around his New Mexico ranch and his lesser-known ideological interests has drawn attention to his fascination with genetic engineering, elite scientific networks and ideas that hinted at creating a so-called superior" human lineage. These revelations go beyond tabloid intrigue. They bring into focus the far more complex ideology of transhumanism a movement that champions human progress through science and technology, yet, in its extreme interpretations, can slip into elitism, inequality and troubling pseudoscience. What Is Transhumanism? Transhumanism is a philosophical and scientific movement that promotes the use of advanced technology to enhance human abilities. Supporters speak about extending lifespan, boosting cognitive performance, improving physical strength, and even eliminating disease through genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. On paper, the idea can sound aspirational. After all, medical progress has already extended life expectancy and improved quality of life globally. Pacemakers, prosthetics, vaccines, and organ transplants were once futuristic ideas. Today, they are standard healthcare tools. However, transhumanism goes a step further. It imagines not just healing the human body, but upgrading it. This is where ethical questions begin to surface. Who will have access to these enhancements? Will they widen the gap between the wealthy and the poor? Could they encourage notions of biological superiority? Epsteins reported interests in selective genetics and elite scientific experiments demonstrate how easily such ideas can drift from medical advancement into morally troubling territory. Epstein And Transhumanism According to The New York Times, Epstein used similar tactics to embed himself within elite scientific circles. Over time, he drew the attention of several prominent thinkers, including Nobel Prize-winning physicist Murray Gell-Mann, theoretical physicist and author Stephen Hawking, evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould, neurologist Eric Kandel, and genetic engineer George M. Church. He positioned himself as a patron of science offering funding, sponsoring conferences, underwriting research projects, and hosting informal gatherings where complex ideas were discussed over lavish meals. In later years, several scientists acknowledged that the promise of financial support may have clouded their judgment regarding Epsteins troubling background. Epstein also financed buffet lunches at Harvard Universitys Program for Evolutionary Dynamics, an institute he helped establish through a reported $6.5 million donation. Several conferences he sponsored were organised in the US Virgin Islands, with attendees flown in and hosted on his private island. On one occasion, a group of scientists, including Stephen Hawking, reportedly boarded a submarine chartered by Epstein during one such visit. Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker later said he had been invited by fellow academics, including mathematician and biologist Martin Nowak and physicist Lawrence Krauss, to what were described as salons or informal intellectual gatherings where Epstein often steered and dominated the conversation. What The World Thinks About Transhumanism? During a live broadcast of the parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japans surrender in World War II, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping were overheard talking about the possibility of extending human lifespans. Putin said, Biotechnology is continuously developing. Human organs can be continuously transplanted. The longer you live, the younger you become, and (you can) even achieve immortality." Xi replied: Some predict that in this century, humans may live to 150 years old." Later, Putin confirmed to reporters that he and Xi had been reflecting on biotechnology. Modern means of health improvement, medical means, even surgical ones related to organ replacement, allow humanity to hope that active life will continue differently than it does today." According to a report in The Wall Street Journal, Silicon Valley is pouring billions of dollars into start-ups, research labs, and non-profits dedicated to longevity. Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Peter Thiel are among the most visible champions. Bezos has backed Altos Labs, a biotech company seeking to reprogram cells to reverse ageing. Thiel has invested in multiple anti-ageing ventures and has long argued that death is a problem to be solved." When Science Meets Power And Privilege One of the most disturbing aspects of Epsteins association with transhumanist circles is not merely his interest in futuristic science but the social power he wielded. When wealth, influence, and unchecked access intersect with emerging scientific fields, accountability often weakens. History shows that scientific ideas do not exist in isolation. They are shaped by the societies that fund, regulate, and interpret them. The early 20th centurys eugenics movements, for example, began with scientific rhetoric about improving" the human race but eventually led to discriminatory policies and human rights abuses. Epsteins alleged fascination with ideas about a super race" reflects a similar pattern where technological optimism merges with hierarchical thinking. The danger lies not in research itself, but in the absence of ethical boundaries. Science, when stripped of social responsibility, can become a tool of exclusion rather than empowerment. According to a Science Direct article on Transhumanism: Towards a new Adam?, transhumanism can be explored in three ways. First, biological enhancement involves stem cell therapies and genetic modifications, such as CRISPR-Cas9, to improve human capacities. Second, bionic augmentation, which includes advanced prosthetics, sensory implants, and neural interfaces to restore or enhance functions. Third, neural and digital integration that focuses on brain-computer interfaces, such as Neuralink, and the theoretical concept of mind uploading. It cautions that biological enhancement remains limited in clinical success and raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding genetic selection. Bionic augmentation allows individuals to regain or surpass natural abilities, challenging the boundary between humans and machines. Neural integration offers cognitive improvements but poses questions about free will and identity. Mind uploading, although speculative, fuels debates on consciousness and artificial life." While transhumanism presents groundbreaking advancements, it also challenges fundamental ethical and societal values. The increasing integration of technology with the human body raises questions about inequality, identity, and the potential transformation of humanity," it adds. How Much Has Transhumanism Been Explored In India India is experiencing rapid growth in biotechnology start-ups, artificial intelligence research, genetic testing services, and longevity science. Conversations around anti-ageing therapies, designer babies, and DNA screening are no longer confined to laboratories. They are increasingly entering mainstream urban discourse. At the same time, India remains a country marked by stark socio-economic disparities. Advanced medical technologies often remain accessible only to affluent urban populations. If enhancement-driven science becomes commercially dominant without ethical oversight, it risks reinforcing existing inequalities rather than solving them. The Epstein revelations act as a cautionary tale. It throws light on scientific curiosity, privilege, insufficient regulation, and morally grey areas. The lesson is not to fear innovation but to question who controls it and for whose benefit it operates. Understanding The Thin Line Between Enhancement And Exploitation Technological progress is rarely neutral. The same tools that can heal can also harm if misused. Genetic engineering can prevent hereditary diseases, but it can also be marketed as a means to engineer ideal" traits. Artificial intelligence can assist doctors, but it can also entrench bias if trained on unequal data. Transhumanisms appeal lies in its promise of overcoming human limitations. Its risk lies in redefining what it means to be human in ways that privilege certain groups over others. Epsteins reported beliefs highlight how easily scientific enthusiasm can intersect with personal ideology. For many ethicists, the concern is not that transhumanism exists, but that public conversations about it remain limited. When discussions about enhancement technologies are dominated by private investors and elite institutions, the voices of ordinary citizens, those most affected by societal change, often go unheard. The Role of Regulation And Public Debate The emerging consensus among policymakers and scientists worldwide is that technology must move hand-in-hand with ethical frameworks. Transparent regulation, independent oversight, and public dialogue are essential. Without them, innovation risks outpacing accountability. India, with its growing scientific ecosystem, faces the challenge of balancing ambition with caution. Genetic research, artificial intelligence, and medical innovation hold enormous potential for national progress. Yet they also require robust legal and ethical guardrails. The Epstein episode underscores the importance of separating legitimate research from pseudoscience and exploitation. It also highlights the need for stronger scrutiny of how wealth and influence shape scientific agendas. When research is guided primarily by private interests rather than public welfare, the line between progress and profiteering can blur. Looking Beyond The Epstein Scandal The Epstein scandal is being looked through the lens of criminal wrongdoing and sensational headlines. Yet focusing only on scandal risks missing the broader implications. The real significance lies in what his ideological interests reveal about societys evolving relationship with technology and power. Transhumanism is not inherently sinister. Many of its goals longer life, healthier bodies, sharper minds align with humanitys long-standing aspirations. The challenge is ensuring that these ambitions do not drift into exclusivity or moral detachment. It is important to recognise that technological futures are not predetermined. They are shaped by public awareness, ethical scrutiny, and inclusive dialogue. Human enhancement, genetic engineering, and AI will continue to evolve. The crucial question is whether they will serve collective well-being or deepen divides. The answer depends less on the technology itself and more on the ethical frameworks that guide it. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 12:04 IST News explainers Was Jeffrey Epstein Trying To Create A Super Race? The Dark Side Of Transhumanism Revealed Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... When AI Meets Religion: Matters Of Faith, Chatbots, Sermons & Concerns Explained Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:42 IST Developing material to AI-generated sermons and Jesus avatar, while artificial intelligence enters the space of worship, a look at the changes and concerns Many raised doubts over the lack of context and accuracy in AI-generated sermons and chatbots. (AI-generated image for representation only) Not just workplaces, artificial intelligence (AI) has also slowly crept into worship too. While some use AI to simulate conversations with Jesus", others take help from the technology to write sermons, even as academics and religious leaders warn about the risks and potential harm, according to a Reuters report. Developing material to chatbots In 2024, Justin Lester, a pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in Vallejo, California, built a custom GPT for his church that uses his sermons to develop small group materials and allows other church leaders to build lessons based on those sermons. Jesus said we will do greater things," he told Reuters. And I think (AI) is part of the greater." Meanwhile, Siraj Raval found TalkToHim, an AI-powered chatbot that simulates conversations with Jesus, as he battled loneliness and existential dread. I had an experience where I felt listened to by a presence that was divine," he told Reuters about the app, which he used to seek answers to his spiritual questions, such as how to live with guilt, forgive when it feels impossible, and to act morally. It was better than a textbook. It was better than reading the Bible," Raval, who regularly attends a non-denominational Christian church in Idaho, said. AI Jesus avatar, AI-generated sermons Last year, St. Peters Chapel in Switzerland installed an AI Jesus avatar in its confessional booth as part of an experimental art installation with a local university. What most surprised Marco Schmid, a theologian at the church, was how seriously people took the experience, with some even thanking the chatbot, Reuters reported. Do you say to your computer when you finish, Oh, thank you, computer? No," Schmid told Reuters. But you see how much people personalized and humanized the system because it was so good." Rabbi Josh Fixler of Congregation Emanu El in Houston, 41, during the Jewish High Holidays in 2023, shocked his congregants when he played a recording of himself discussing the impact of AI on humanity a sermon that he later revealed was AI-generated. The concerns I came away from that sermon with real concerns about both the ethics of the technology and also the hyperfocus on the technology," Fixler said, adding that some of what the chatbot came up with simply wasnt true. It quoted a great Jewish scholar named Maimonides, but as best I can tell, it made up that quote," he told Reuters. I think there is something distinctive about the nature of Christian community, which is about being in person and face to face and being deeply human," Steven Croft, the bishop of Oxford, said. Crofts hesitancy is shared by other religious leaders and academics, many of whom cite a lack of trust in AIs ability to provide sound religious advice. Beth Singler, an assistant professor in digital religion at the University of Zurich, recalled an instance when a Character.ai Buddah" erroneously claimed there were five noble truths in Buddhism, instead of four. But its not just inaccuracies that shes concerned about. There are questions about the ethics of representations of religious leaders," Singler said, especially if the chatbot says something profane or, worse, dangerous. Weve seen specific examples of people being pushed towards suicide by conversations with chatbots. There (are) some really scary statistics about how often that happens." Yaqub Chaudhary, a visiting scholar at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence at the University of Cambridge, also questions whether AI is the best medium to deliver valid and attributable religious information particularly in the context of his faith, Islam, which considers the Quran the direct and unaltered word of God. Is that a true communication of the Islamic meaning if it is produced by an LLM, mixing together whatever it has in its training set?" he told Reuters. That is a really huge problem in terms of knowing the halal, the haram, the recommended, the permissible, the impermissible, the disliked." I think that the work of religion is not trying to get machines to be more human," Fixler said. The work of religion is trying to get us all to be the most human human." With Reuters inputs News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:54 IST News explainers When AI Meets Religion: Matters Of Faith, Chatbots, Sermons & Concerns Explained Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Absolutely Pathetic': Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Slams SpiceJet For Delayed Take Off, Airline Responds Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:47 IST Ambadas Danve criticized SpiceJet after Mumbai-Goa flight SG1082 passengers were stuck 90 minutes without AC. SpiceJet issued a clarification. SpiceJet responded after the social media post by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve. Shiv Sena (UBT) politician Ambadas Danve on Monday slammed SpiceJet airlines after the passengers were stuck in the aircraft for over 90 minutes with no air conditioning. As per a social media post by Danve, the SpiceJet from Mumbai to Goa was late in taking off and the passengers were stuck for over 90 minutes. The airline also issued a statement and claimed that the aircraft could not take off at the scheduled time due to congestion at Mumbai airport." It also stated that the AC was operational throughout. Danve took to X and shared his experience. Absolutely pathetic professionalism" from @flyspicejet. Passengers on flight SG1082 (BOM-GOX) have been stuck on the aircraft for 90+ mins with NO AIR CONDITIONING. This is a metal oven, not a flight. If a passenger suffers a heat-related health crisis, who is taking responsibility? @MoCA_GoI, its time to stop watching from the sidelines and take punitive action against this blatant disregard for safety. @CSMIA_Official how is this allowed on your watch?" Absolutely pathetic professionalism" from @flyspicejet. Passengers on flight SG1082 (BOM-GOX) have been stuck on the aircraft for 90+ mins with NO AIR CONDITIONING.This is a metal oven, not a flight. If a passenger suffers a heat-related health crisis, who is taking pic.twitter.com/8IymobDwd5 Ambadas Danve (@iambadasdanve) February 9, 2026 A SpiceJet spokesperson issued a clarification on the matter and said, On February 9, 2026, SpiceJet flight SG 1082 scheduled to operate from Mumbai to Goa was chocked on time for its scheduled departure. However, the aircraft could not take off due to congestion at Mumbai airport." The air conditioning system remained operational throughout; however, some passengers may have experienced discomfort owing to the hot and humid weather conditions in Mumbai. Passenger safety and comfort remain our top priority, and we regret the inconvenience caused," it added. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 21:47 IST News india 'Absolutely Pathetic': Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Slams SpiceJet For Delayed Take Off, Airline Responds Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Centre To Brief Tharoor-Led Panel On India-US Trade Deal, Opposition Seeks Response On Russia Ties Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 23:31 IST Ahead of the meeting, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a detailed briefing with NDA MPs on the committee, indicating the government's efforts to coordinate its stance The panel, which is chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, is scheduled to meet for the high-level briefing by the ministries of external affairs and commerce at 4.30 pm on February 10, 2026. (Image: PTI/File) The foreign and commerce secretaries are both set to brief the Shashi Tharoor-led parliamentary committee on external affairs on India-US trade agreement, amid the oppositions demands of more transparency on the framework. The committee, which is chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, is scheduled to meet at 4.30 pm on Tuesday (February 10) for the high-level briefing by the ministries of external affairs and commerce. The meeting is expected to be intense as opposition members seek urgent answers on the potential impact of US-led sanctions on India-Russia relations, specifically concerning the purchase of discounted crude oil. This comes as concerns grow over claims made by President Donald Trump that the deal will have India move to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to zero". Another point of contention during the discussion could be the potential opening of Indias agricultural sector to American exports, even though Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has assured that farming and dairy are completely protected". While the deal reportedly reduces tariffs on Indian goods in the US to 18 percent, Washington has claimed that the arrangement will significantly boost its agricultural exports to New Delhi. Ahead of the meeting, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a detailed briefing with NDA MPs, who sit on the panel, indicating the governments efforts to coordinate its stance. According to a notice by the Lok Sabha secretariat dated February 4, the discussion on current foreign policy developments" will also include Indias free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union and its relations with Bangladesh ahead of general elections in the politically volatile neighbouring country. WHAT HAS SHASHI THAROOR SAID ABOUT THE DEAL? Tharoor had reacted to the trade deal by saying if social media announcements are a substitute for formal parliamentary processes in a democracy. We have Mr Trumps tweet and Mr Modis tweet; is that enough in a parliamentary democracy?" Tharoor had asked. He had said the Centre must explain the deals contents to the people of the country. Mr Trump says its for agriculture, so what are the protections for Indian farmers?" he had further asked. He had questioned the scale of the commitment, noting that if the US expects $500 billion in trade, it would represent a massive portion of Indias total $700 billion import bill potentially forcing a halt to imports from other countries. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 23:31 IST News india Centre To Brief Tharoor-Led Panel On India-US Trade Deal, Opposition Seeks Response On Russia Ties Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Chandrayaan-4: ISRO Has Found Safe Landing Site On The Moon For Vikram Lander Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 12:30 IST ISRO scientists have identified a safe patch of 1 sq km on the Moon near Mons Mouton as the safest landing site for Chandrayaan-4 Rapid Read Chandrayaan-4 is being described as ISRO's most complex lunar mission so far. (PTI Image for representation) In a significant development for the ambitious Chandrayaan-4 mission, scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have identified a safe and relatively flat landing area in the Moons southern polar region, bringing the country a step closer to its first attempt at bringing lunar samples back to Earth. The potential landing site has been located near the Mons Mouton mountain and is currently considered the safest option for the mission. According to a report by The Times of India, researchers from ISROs Space Applications Centre carried out a detailed analysis using high-resolution images captured by the camera aboard Chandrayaan-2s orbiter. Their study identified a stretch of nearly 1 sq km that appears most suitable for a safe landing. Chandrayaan-4 is being described as ISROs most complex lunar mission so far. The mission architecture will include a propulsion module, descender, ascender, transfer module and a re-entry module. As per the plan, the Vikram lander will touch down on the lunar surface, after which samples will be collected with the help of robotic systems similar to the Pragyan rover. These samples will then be carried by the ascender module to lunar orbit and eventually transported back to Earth. Selecting the landing site remains the most critical and challenging part of the mission. ISRO engineers have laid down strict criteria for the location, including a ground slope of less than 10 degrees, minimal presence of large rocks, continuous sunlight availability for 11-12 days, direct radio communication with Earth and a surface with very few craters. Earlier studies had identified multiple potential regions near the Moons south pole. In the latest phase, scientists closely examined five areas around Mons Mouton. One of these was ruled out because it remains in permanent darkness. The remaining four sites, labelled MM-1, MM-3, MM-4 and MM-5, were studied in detail. Using digital elevation models created at a fine resolution of 32 centimetres, researchers assessed each area for slope, height variations, sunlight exposure and potential risks. Among them, MM-4 emerged as the safest and most balanced choice. Located at 84.289 degrees south latitude and 32.808 degrees east longitude, the site has an average slope of around 5 degrees, considered ideal for landing operations. The overall risk level at MM-4 was calculated at just 9.89%, with 568 safe landing grids identified in the area. Scientists also noted that shadows from nearby hills are limited, ensuring sufficient sunlight for powering the landers solar panels. By comparison, MM-1 and MM-3 showed risk levels above 12%, while MM-5 had very few safe grids for landing. Researchers say the study demonstrates how high-resolution imaging can support extremely precise landing decisions for future lunar missions. If the site is approved by the landing selection committee, the region could become the location where India attempts its first lunar sample return. A successful Chandrayaan-4 mission would place India among a select group of nations that have managed to bring back samples from the Moon or other celestial bodies. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 12:30 IST News india Chandrayaan-4: ISRO Has Found Safe Landing Site On The Moon For Vikram Lander Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi Police File FIR Over Circulation Of Ex-Army Chiefs Unpublished Book Amid Parliament Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 20:04 IST Delhi Police took cognisance of information found on social media and news forums claiming that a pre-print version of the book was in circulation. A printed copy of the unpublished book by former Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane held up in the Parliament complex by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi | Image: PTI Delhi Police on Monday registered a case over the alleged leak of a pre-publication copy of Four Stars of Destiny, the memoir of former Army Chief General Manoj Naravane, after reports surfaced that the book was circulating online without mandatory clearances. According to the police, they took cognisance of information found on social media platforms and news forums claiming that a pre-print version of the book was in circulation, even though official approval for its publication had not yet been granted by the competent authorities. During verification, investigators found that a PDF version of a typeset book bearing the same title, apparently prepared by publisher Penguin Random House India Pvt. Ltd., was available on certain websites. In addition, some online marketing platforms were found displaying the finished book cover as if the title were available for purchase. In view of the suspected breach and unauthorised circulation of an unpublished work, Delhi Police said a case has been registered with the Special Cell and a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the leak and the extent of the violation. Four Stars Of Destiny Four Stars of Destiny is a memoir chronicling nearly four decades of General Naravanes service in the Indian Army, tracing his journey from a Second Lieutenant to Chief of the Army Staff. The book reportedly offers insights into key moments of his career, including Indias most serious military standoff with China since the 1962 conflict. Penguin Random House India is the publisher of the memoir. Parliament Row The controversy surrounding the book gained attention during the post-Budget session of Parliament. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi was set to move the Motion of Thanks on the Union Budget, Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi read out portions of a magazine article said to be based on General Naravanes unpublished memoir. Though Gandhi spoke for only a few minutes, his remarks drew sharp reactions from the BJP leadership. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh accused the Leader of the Opposition of citing material from an unpublished book. Singh questioned the propriety of referring to content that had not formally entered the public domain. Within days, Gandhi returned to Parliament holding a copy of Four Stars of Destiny, saying he intended to gift it to the Prime Minister", further fuelling the political controversy. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 19:35 IST News india Delhi Police File FIR Over Circulation Of Ex-Army Chiefs Unpublished Book Amid Parliament Row Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Heatwave Grips Kerala, Disaster Authority Issues Safety Advisory Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:47 IST KSDMA warns residents of rising temperatures, urges precautions against heat illnesses. Vulnerable groups, schools, and outdoor workers receive special instructions. KSDMA warns residents of rising temperatures, urges precautions against heat illnesses. Vulnerable groups, schools, and outdoor workers receive special instructions . (AI Image) The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued a public advisory warning residents of rising temperatures across Kerala and urging people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. According to the advisory, several parts of the state are experiencing above-normal temperatures, with conditions expected to worsen during peak daytime hours. The authority cautioned that prolonged exposure to heat could lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, outdoor workers and those with pre-existing health conditions. The KSDMA advised people to avoid direct sunlight between late morning and afternoon, drink plenty of water even if not feeling thirsty, and wear light, loose cotton clothing. Residents have also been asked to limit strenuous physical activity during the hottest parts of the day and ensure proper ventilation indoors. Special instructions were issued for schools, construction workers and those employed in agriculture and other outdoor occupations. Employers were urged to adjust work timings, provide shaded rest areas and ensure access to drinking water. The disaster management authority also warned against leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles and advised the public to check on elderly neighbours and those living alone. In case of symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches or confusion, people were asked to seek medical help immediately. Officials said the situation is being closely monitored and further advisories may be issued depending on how weather conditions evolve in the coming days. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Kerala, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 21:47 IST News india Heatwave Grips Kerala, Disaster Authority Issues Safety Advisory Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'If This Is The Quality Of Banking...': SC Raps Banks Over Handling Of 'Digital Arrest' Fraud Cases Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:14 IST The Supreme Court also questioned why the RBI has not taken tougher policy measures despite reports suggesting that over 54,000 crore has been siphoned off abroad. Supreme Court Of India (PTI) The Supreme Court on Monday strongly criticised banks for their handling of digital arrest" fraud cases, questioning their professionalism and asking why suspicious transactions are not flagged in time, even as customers lose their life savings. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Suryakant was hearing the matter after the Centre placed status reports filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) outlining steps to curb such cyber frauds. The Attorney General informed the court that data on these cases is being compiled and standard operating procedures are under preparation. Highlighting the human cost of such crimes, the CJI observed that losses cannot be viewed merely as statistics. Also Read: How One Kill Switch Button Could Crack Down On Digital Arrest Scams For elderly couples and small depositors, he noted, the amounts siphoned off often represent their entire lifetime savings. The court underlined that banks have a clear duty of care towards customers and questioned why red flags are not raised when suspicious transactions occur. If this is the professionalism and quality of banking they are showing, then it is serious," the CJI remarked, expressing concern over delays by both public and private sector banks in responding to customer complaints. The bench asked why digital arrest transactions cannot be immediately frozen and alerts sent to customers as well as cybercrime police stations when unusual activity is detected. The Attorney General told the court that discussions are underway to finalise SOPs specifically for handling digital arrest fraud cases and to fast-track responses. While MHA and MeitY have submitted status reports, the Reserve Bank of India has also drafted an SOP detailing the steps banks should take upon receiving complaints. Directing MHA to formally adopt and implement the SOP finalised on January 2, 2026, the court stressed the need to strengthen coordination among agencies to ensure recovery of stolen funds. It also said High Courts should oversee compliance to prevent multiple, overlapping proceedings. The amicus curiae assisting the court flagged systemic gaps, pointing out that banks often refuse compensation by claiming victims transferred money voluntarily", an argument he said ignores the coercive nature of such frauds. He added that while RBIs AI-based Mule Hunter" tool has been rolled out in 86 banks, other mandated safeguards, such as velocity checks to detect rapid fund movements, remain largely unimplemented. The Supreme Court also questioned why the RBI has not taken tougher policy measures despite reports suggesting that over 54,000 crore has been siphoned off abroad. The CJI asked whether such massive losses stem from negligence, collusion, or a reluctance to inconvenience customers. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:14 IST News india 'If This Is The Quality Of Banking...': SC Raps Banks Over Handling Of 'Digital Arrest' Fraud Cases Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Luxury Cars, Watches: Businessman's Son, Who Crashed Lamborghini In Kanpur, Has A Lavish Lifestyle Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 12:00 IST Shivam Mishra, son of a tobacco trader, injured six in a Lamborghini crash in UP's Kanpur. His luxury assets have come under scanner following his involvement in the crash. Shivam Mishra, who rammed many in Kanpur (Photos: Social Media) Shivam Mishra, who injured many following a dramatic road accident in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur, had first drawn attention in 2024 during large-scale Income Tax raids on his familys tobacco business, NDTV reported. Shivam Mishra is the son of tobacco trader KK Mishra, who heads Banshidhar Tobacco Private Limited, a firm that supplies products to major pan masala groups. The Income Tax Department had carried out coordinated searches at nearly 20 locations across Kanpur, Delhi, Mumbai and parts of Gujarat, deploying between 15 and 20 teams across five states. Officials had alleged that while the company declared an annual income of around Rs 20 to 25 crore, its real turnover could have been far higher, estimated between Rs 100 and 150 crore. The gap, investigators believed, pointed to possible violations of Income Tax laws and Goods and Services Tax (GST) norms. The report also claimed that authorities were probing suspected offshore accounts and manipulated ledgers, though there has been no detailed public update on the proceedings since the raids. SHIVAM MISHRAs LUXURY ASSETS UNDER SCANNER The report claimed that searches at Shivam Mishras Delhi residence in Vasant Vihar uncovered a striking collection of luxury cars, all reportedly carrying the same registration number. The fleet, valued at roughly Rs 50 crore, included a Rolls-Royce Phantom, along with high-end models from McLaren, Porsche and a Lamborghini Revuelto. Income Tax teams also seized large quantities of cash, about Rs 4.5 crore in the first phase of the operation and another Rs 7 crore during follow-up searches, along with jewellery and other valuables. Several luxury watches were confiscated as well, including a diamond-studded piece estimated to be worth nearly Rs 2.5 crore, the report mentioned. THE LAMBORGHINI CRASH IN KANPUR Shivam Mishras speeding Lamborghini, allegedly driven by him, ploughed into pedestrians and two-wheelers on VIP Road in Kanpurs Gwaltoli area on Sunday, leaving at least six people injured. The accident occurred around 3.15 pm near Rev-3 Mall when the luxury car, reportedly driven by Shivam Mishra, the son of businessman KK Mishra, went out of control and ploughed into people standing along the roadside and several vehicles, triggering panic in the area," DCP (Central) Atul Kumar Srivastava told news agency PTI. #WATCH | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh: The son of a tobacco businessman hit more than four people with his Lamborghini car. He hit a motorcycle rider and injured several pedestrians.The car involved in the accident has been seized by the Gwaltoli police station. pic.twitter.com/ouwjRHYR0D ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 Eyewitnesses told police that the car first struck an auto-rickshaw before crashing into a parked Royal Enfield motorcycle, throwing its rider nearly 10 feet into the air. The vehicle allegedly dragged the bike for some distance and finally stopped after hitting an electric pole. Police said one of the injured, Taufiq of Yamunaganj, suffered serious leg injuries after being flung several metres, while others sustained fractures and bruises. Angry residents gathered at the spot and surrounded the vehicle, forcing the driver to remain inside. Some witnesses alleged that private bouncers accompanying the accused tried to push back the crowd aggressively, worsening tensions. Police later rescued the driver and shifted him and the injured to a private hospital, while the Lamborghini was seized and taken to the police station. Chaos subsequently broke out at the station, with locals alleging misbehaviour by the accuseds associates and claiming that police were being lenient due to the familys influence. Protesters also alleged pressure for a compromise and delays in registering a case. DCP Srivastava said, The injured were provided primary treatment. An FIR will be registered, and further legal action will follow." Police said investigations into the incident are continuing. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:19 IST News india Luxury Cars, Watches: Businessman's Son, Who Crashed Lamborghini In Kanpur, Has A Lavish Lifestyle Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Man Sets Shop Ablaze, Pours Petrol On Himself Amid Bulldozer Action In Varanasi | Video Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 22:38 IST The incident occured after the Municipal Corporation began demolishing 21 structures identified as unsafe and obstructing the road widening project. A man sets shop on fire amid bulldozer action in Dalmandi, Varanasi | Image: X Tension flared in Varanasis Dalmandi area on Monday as a large-scale demolition drive for road widening got underway, during which a man allegedly set his shop on fire and poured petrol on himself in protest against the administrations action. According to officials, the Municipal Corporation began demolishing 21 structures identified as unsafe and obstructing the widening project, marking the biggest single-day demolition exercise in Dalmandi so far. The drive is part of an ongoing campaign to clear old and dilapidated buildings along the stretch. A man set his house on fire in Dalmandi area in Varanasi. One of the oldest markets of Varanasi- Dalmandi is being bulldozed for alternate wider road to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Several house owners have approached court for stay/relief. pic.twitter.com/lgs1eBLCrx Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) February 9, 2026 Local shopkeepers and residents staged protests at the site, urging the administration to grant them at least a 10-day extension to vacate. However, their appeals were not accepted, leading to heightened tensions. Amid the operation, the owner of a property identified as house number 40/71 set his shop ablaze and threatened self-immolation. The situation was brought under control before any further harm occurred. In view of the situation, heavy police deployment was made in the area. Around 500 police personnel, including women officers, were stationed across Dalmandi, with forces drawn from four police stations. The entire operation was closely monitored using drones, and barricades were erected on approach roads to restrict movement and prevent disruption. Assistant Commissioner of Police (Dashashwamedh) Atul Anjan said demolition work was being carried out continuously as part of the road widening project and described Saturdays exercise as a major operation. He added that security arrangements had been tightened to ensure law and order and to allow the work to proceed without obstruction. The Municipal Corporation had issued notices to 23 properties on January 31, warning of demolition. Officials said the structures are over a century old and in a severely dilapidated condition, posing a serious risk to occupants. Despite this, several families and shopkeepers were still living and operating from the buildings. Earlier, eight houses in the area were demolished together on January 21 as part of the same project. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Varanasi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 18:11 IST News india Man Sets Shop Ablaze, Pours Petrol On Himself Amid Bulldozer Action In Varanasi | Video Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Minor Killed After Being Hit By Vande Bharat Express In UP; Kin Vandalise Hospital Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:41 IST Female doctors had to hide in a restroom to save themselves, he said, adding that the rioters were trying to break down the restroom door when the police arrived at the scene. Rapid Read Vande Bharat train. (Image: PTI/File) A tragic incident occurred in Uttar Pradeshs Shahjahanpur when a 16-year-old boy was killed after being hit by the Vande Bharat Express. The accident took place near Indira Nagar railway crossing on Sunday. According to the police, the deceased identified as Ankit Kumar. Upon receiving information, a police team immediately took him to the hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Later, his family members vandalised the hospital, forcing female doctors to take shelter in a restroom for their safety, the official said, adding that a case has been registered against the accused. Superintendent of Police , Shahjahanpur, Rajesh Dwivedi, told PTI that the family members also blocked the road in the Nigohi area on Monday by placing the body there. The blockade was cleared after police intervention. A teenage boy identified as Ankit was brought to the emergency department on Sunday, said Rajesh Kumar, Principal of the Government Medical College. Doctors examined him and declared him dead. Later, for confirmation, an electrocardiogram was performed on him, but no heartbeat was detected, Kumar said. The body was then placed in the mortuary, he added. He further said that Ankits family arrived at the hospital and carried out extensive vandalism in the emergency department, damaging government records and allegedly assaulting doctors. Female doctors had to hide in a restroom to save themselves, he said, adding that the rioters were trying to break down the restroom door when the police arrived at the scene. SP Dwivedi said that a case has been registered at the Kotwali police station against the family members and other rioters under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 131 , 132 , 221 , 324 , 351 and 352 Provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act have also been added to the case, the officer added. The body of the deceased was sent for a post-mortem examination on Monday, police sai News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Uttar Pradesh, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:41 IST News india Minor Killed After Being Hit By Vande Bharat Express In UP; Kin Vandalise Hospital Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... PM Modi Announces $175 Million Aid To Seychelles To Boost Economic, Security Ties Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 23:37 IST PM Modi announced a Special Economic Package to support concrete projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with President of Seychelles Patrick Herminie in New Delhi. India on Monday announced USD 175 million in development assistance to Seychelles after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with the island nations President Patrick Herminie, laying out a joint vision for deeper economic and security cooperation. Following the Modi-Herminie meeting, both sides signed seven agreements covering areas such as digital solutions, exports, data sharing, and maritime scientific research. They also agreed on a broad framework to expand collaboration in sustainability, trade, economy, and security. Todays meeting makes it clear that the India-Seychelles partnership is entering a new phase," PM Modi said in a statement. Had a productive meeting with President Patrick Herminie of Seychelles earlier today. His visit comes at a time when Seychelles is celebrating the 50th year of its Independence and the 50th anniversary of India-Seychelles relations. Our nations are connected by history and a pic.twitter.com/yZSzdWkPG7 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2026 India and Seychelles share a relationship that extends far beyond diplomatic engagement. The waves of the Indian Ocean have connected our peoples for centuries. Along its shores, trade between our nations has grown, cultures have converged, and traditions of trust have continued to strengthen," he added. ALSO READ: Seychelles Becomes New Member of Colombo Security Conclave Seychelles, a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean, will establish a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit (SHU) with Indian assistance to support the development of its blue economy. Our bond spans the past, the present, and the future. As a maritime neighbour and a trusted partner, Seychelles is an integral part of Indias MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) Vision," PM Modi said, referring to Indias strategy for security and growth across regions. Our cooperation encompasses the maritime, land, and air domains." Prime Minister Modi announced a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million to support concrete projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. The aid comprises USD 125 million as a rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri added that India will provide 1,000 metric tonnes of grains and lentils under the package. PM Modi also highlighted plans to support Seychelles in health infrastructure, affordable medicines, renewable energy, climate-adaptive solutions, marine research, and capacity building. Defence cooperation and maritime security are important pillars of our partnership. We welcome Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave," PM Modi said. This will strengthen our mutual coordination and reinforce efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indian Ocean." (With inputs from agencies) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 23:37 IST News india PM Modi Announces $175 Million Aid To Seychelles To Boost Economic, Security Ties Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Deepam Row: Supreme Court Upholds Curbs On Namaz, Backs Madras HC Order Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 14:18 IST The court also upheld the High Courts direction permitting namaz only on Ramzan and Bakrid at the dargah, while affirming the ban on animal sacrifice within the premises. The Madras HC had earlier passed an order limiting namaz. (PTI photo) The Supreme Court on Monday upheld the Madras High Courts ruling restricting the offering of namaz at the dargah located on Thirupparankundram Hills in Tamil Nadu, holding that Muslims cannot offer daily prayers at the site. The apex court described the High Courts decision as a balanced order". The court also upheld the High Courts direction permitting namaz only on Ramzan and Bakrid at the dargah, while affirming the ban on animal sacrifice within the premises. The ruling came on an appeal filed by a practising Muslim, Imam Hussain, challenging the Madras High Courts judgment. The case relates to the long-running Thirupparankundram Deepam row, which has seen disputes over religious practices at the hill, considered sacred by multiple communities. With the Supreme Court declining to interfere, the restrictions imposed by the Madras High Court will continue to remain in force. A plea was filed in the Supreme Court, challenging a Madras High Courts order which allowed the lighting of a lamp on the Thirupparankundram hill in Tamil Nadu subject to clearance from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and police. In his plea, the original petitioner, Rama Ravikumar, mentioned the high courts directions as an unlawful" dilution of binding civil court decrees recognising the Arulmigu Subramania Swamy Temples ownership and control of the hill, and as an impermissible judicial intrusion" into an essential religious practice. Ravikumar contended that although the high court acknowledged the temples right to light Deepam at the Deepathoon (stone pillar), it effectively rendered that right conditional by subjecting it to administrative discretion. He further submitted that the high court has exceeded its jurisdiction by imposing fresh substantive restrictions despite the final decree conclusively recognising the temples proprietary rights over the hill. He said that the practice of lighting the Deepam was the temples internal religious matter and cannot be made subject to statutory authorities in the absence of a clear legislative mandate. The petitioner has also alleged hostile discrimination and said that while devotees of another faith are permitted access and usage rights up to the Nellithope area, Hindu worship at the hilltop has been subjected to layered administrative controls without authority of law. On January 23, the top court sought a response from the Centre, the Tamil Nadu government and others on a separate plea seeking directions on the ASIs takeover of the Thirupparankundram temple and daily lamp lighting on top of the Deepathoon. It has issued notice on a plea filed by an organisation called Hindu Dharma Parishad. On January 6, a division bench of the Madras High Court made it clear that the spot on which the stone pillar is located belongs to the Sri Subramania Swamy Temple. The appellants failed to produce formidable evidence" to show that Agama Sastra of Saivites prohibits lighting the lamp at a place, which is not straight on top of the deity in the sanctum sanctorum, the court had observed. In its order, the high court had said the Devasthanam (temple management) must light the lamp at the Deepathoon. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:58 IST News india Deepam Row: Supreme Court Upholds Curbs On Namaz, Backs Madras HC Order Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Wont Create Impediments To Completion Of SIR: Supreme Court To Bengal Govt Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:09 IST The Supreme Court assured West Bengal it will address hurdles but not delay the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, said Chief Justice Surya Kant. The Supreme Court was hearing the case for the second time on Monday. (Pics: PTI) The Supreme Court on Monday told the West Bengal government that it would not create any impediments to the completion of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, even as it assured that hurdles in the process would be addressed. We will remove hurdles, but we will not create any impediments in the completion of SIR. Let us be very clear about it," Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said during the hearing. Senior advocate DS Naidu, appearing in the matter, flagged concerns over the appointment of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), arguing that they perform quasi-judicial functions and must be adequately trained and qualified. He said only 64 officers with adjudicatory experience were appointed, while others were selected based on pay parity, despite SIR decisions being open to challenge in appellate forums. The bench also discussed the role of micro observers in the process. Senior advocate Shyam Divan argued that large-scale deletion of voter names could not be carried out through micro observers. The CJI, however, noted that micro observers were part of a system created to assist EROs and AEROs, and that the final decision-making authority rested with the EROs. The court observed that if additional officers joined the process, the quality of decisions could improve. During the hearing, Divan highlighted the urgency of the matter, pointing out that the SIR process is scheduled to conclude on February 14. He said the draft electoral list contains 7.08 crore voters, of which 6.75 crore are mapped, while around 32 lakh remain unmapped and 1.36 crore fall under the logical discrepancy" category. The court said it would continue hearing the matter. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:56 IST News india Wont Create Impediments To Completion Of SIR: Supreme Court To Bengal Govt Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Meghan Markle Stuns In Harbison Studio Gown At Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 09:18 IST Meghan Markle turns heads in a strapless Harbison Studio gown and velvet shawl at the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala, embracing sleek, old Hollywood elegance. The Duchess of Sussex delivers minimalist glamour in oyster and black evening wear in LA. Some red carpet moments are loud. Others whisper, and still manage to hold the entire room. At the Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala in Los Angeles, Meghan Markle chose the latter approach, stepping out in a look that felt restrained, deliberate and unmistakably refined. Against the backdrop of Paramount Studios, the Duchess of Sussex embraced a kind of polished minimalism that nodded to old Hollywood without veering into costume. It wasnt drama for dramas sake. It was precision dressing. A Study In Sculpted Simplicity For the evening, Meghan Markle wore a strapless Harbison Studio gown in a soft oyster tone a shade that sat somewhere between champagne and pearl under the lights. The silhouette did the heavy lifting: a fitted bodice that flowed into a clean, column skirt, cut to skim rather than cling. The result was architectural and fluid all at once. A contrasting black trim along the sweetheart neckline introduced definition, subtly framing the decolletage and adding a graphic sharpness to an otherwise gentle palette. It was the kind of detail that rewards a second glance understated, yet impactful. View this post on Instagram A post shared by M E G H A N & H A R R Y (@harry_meghan_updates) Instead of layering on embellishment, she added a sweeping black velvet-and-silk shawl that draped around her shoulders and trailed behind like a soft train. The piece brought movement and vintage glamour, recalling the elegance of mid-century starlets arriving at premieres. True to her evolving red carpet aesthetic, Meghan kept accessories sparse. No necklace, no stacked jewels just a pair of black diamond drop earrings and a single statement ring. The restraint felt intentional. With such a sculptural gown, excess would have distracted. Her Stuart Weitzman Nudist 100 heels extended the line of the dress, maintaining the sleek verticality of the look. The hair and makeup followed the same less-is-more philosophy. Hair was pulled into a neat, balletic bun, placing full focus on the neckline and shoulders. Soft smokey eyes, fluttery lashes and a glossy pink-nude lip created a luminous finish, while a milky blush manicure tied everything together. Nothing competed. Everything complemented. Meghans look wasnt just elegant; it was aligned with the spirit of the evening. Sophisticated, purposeful and quietly powerful, this was Meghan Markle at her most confident: proof that true luxury doesnt need to shout. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 09:15 IST News lifestyle fashion Meghan Markle Stuns In Harbison Studio Gown At Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala What Is Omakase? The Japanese Bar Trend Quietly Taking Over Delhis Nightlife Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:37 IST Omakase-style drinking is the latest trend in Delhi bars, offering curated cocktails, bartender-led experiences and intimate nights out. From speakeasies to omakase counters, Delhis nightlife embraces curated drinking culture. Delhi doesnt just follow trends, it magnifies them. Give the city a new dining or drinking concept, and within months, its everywhere, reinterpreted, elevated and booked out weeks in advance. We saw it with speakeasies tucked behind unmarked doors, then chefs tables and tasting menus. Now, a quieter, more intimate ritual is making waves across the capitals nightlife scene: omakase-style drinking. Less menu, more trust. At its heart, omakase a Japanese phrase meaning I leave it up to you" is about surrendering choice to the expert. Traditionally associated with sushi counters where chefs curate each bite, the philosophy has found a new home behind the bar. Instead of scanning a cocktail list, guests let the bartender design a personalised lineup based on mood, preferences and seasonal ingredients. Its part theatre, part craftsmanship and entirely experiential. The Bar As A Stage In an omakase setting, the focus shifts from ordering to observing. You sit at the counter, talk flavour profiles with the bartender and watch each drink come together with precision. House infusions, rare spirits, hand-cut ice, unexpected garnishes every detail is intentional. The result feels less like grabbing drinks and more like a curated tasting journey. For Delhis increasingly well-travelled crowd, that exclusivity is the appeal. Theres something quietly luxurious about not knowing whats coming next and trusting that it will be exceptional. Why Delhi Loves A Good Trend If theres one thing the capital excels at, its turning niche concepts into full-blown movements. Speakeasy bars, once novel, are now mushrooming across neighbourhoods. Craft cocktail programmes, once limited to five-star hotels, have become standard. Omakase feels like the natural next step intimate, premium and experience-led. It also taps into a growing desire for bespoke hospitality. Diners today dont just want food or drinks; they want stories, interaction and something Instagram cant fully capture. An omakase bar delivers exactly that. What sets the trend apart is its focus on craftsmanship. Bartenders double as curators, blending Japanese techniques with local ingredients think yuzu with kokum, sake with Himalayan botanicals or matcha-infused gin. Its global inspiration filtered through Delhis palate. And unlike flashy gimmicks, omakase encourages slowing down. Fewer drinks, better quality, deeper conversations. Its indulgence with intention. In a city where dining out is as much about social currency as it is taste, omakase has become the newest marker of insider cool. Not loud, not obvious just quietly elevated. Because in Delhi, when a trend arrives, it doesnt stay small for long. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:37 IST News lifestyle food What Is Omakase? The Japanese Bar Trend Quietly Taking Over Delhis Nightlife Inside Sonam Kapoor Ahujas Intimate Baby Shower Ceremony In Mumbai Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:31 IST Sonam Kapoor recently celebrated her baby shower, which was attended by several Bollywood celebrities, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Bhumi Pednekar and Arjun Kapoor. Sonam was seen wearing a pistachio-hued lehenga.(Photo Credit: Instagram) Sonam Kapoor Ahuja recently celebrated her second baby shower in a setting that perfectly balanced elegance, tradition and warmth. Known for setting maternity fashion trends, the actor hosted an intimate godh bharai ceremony at her Mumbai residence, attended by close friends, family members and prominent Bollywood personalities. As she prepares to welcome her second child with entrepreneur husband Anand Ahuja, Sonam chose a distinctive pistachio-hued lehenga adorned with delicate embroidery. Paired with a flowing cape, the outfit reflected her signature sense of effortless elegance while offering comfort and grace for the special occasion. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) Bollywood Celebrities Attend Sonam Kapoors Godh Bharai The celebration witnessed the presence of several well-known names from the Hindi film industry. Guests included Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shabana Azmi, Anupam Kher, Bhumi Pednekar, Masaba Gupta, Shanaya Kapoor and Sonams mother Maheep Kapoor. Members of the Kapoor family, such as Anshula Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor and Arjun Kapoor, were also seen arriving to bless the mom-to-be. Celebrity Guests Turn Heads with Their Ethnic Looks Kareena Kapoor Khan made a stylish appearance in a blue ethnic ensemble, while Shabana Azmi opted for a mustard yellow kurta set. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Voompla (@voompla) Sonams cousin Anshula Kapoor looked radiant in a yellow Anarkali while Arjun Kapoor looked dapper in a red Sherwani and Khushi Kapoor chose a white and yellow saree for the occasion. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pallav Paliwal (@pallav_paliwal) Bhumi Pednekar kept her look minimal yet elegant in a white chikankari suit, paired with a matching choker necklace and a sleek bun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Voompla (@voompla) Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahujas Love Story Sonam first met Anand Ahuja in 2015 during the promotions of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. Although friends initially planned to introduce her to one of Anands friends, Sonam found herself connecting more with Anand instead. After two weeks of constant texting, the bond grew stronger, eventually leading to their grand wedding in 2018. Sonam Kapoors Pregnancy Announcement and Family Life View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonam A Kapoor (@sonamkapoor) The couple welcomed their son, Vayu, in 2022. In November 2025, Sonam announced her second pregnancy with a stylish photoshoot, sharing images of her baby bump in a pink outfit inspired by Princess Diana. The announcement quickly garnered attention for its elegance and personal touch. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:42 IST News movies bollywood Inside Sonam Kapoor Ahujas Intimate Baby Shower Ceremony In Mumbai Salman Khan Shoots Special 'Celebratory Song' In Gorai For Battle Of Galwan: Report Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 08:48 IST Salman Khan is shooting a special celebratory song in Gorai for Battle of Galwan. The team plans to wrap this sequence soon as the film nears completion. Salman Khan is shooting a special celebratory song in Gorai for the Battle of Galwan. While the buzz suggests that Salman Khans Battle of Galwan may miss his Eid release, the team is dedicatedly finishing the shoot of the war drama. On February 6, the shooting of a special celebratory dance number began, with Shabina Khan choreographing it. An update suggests that before moving to Golden Tobacco in Vile Parle, this shoot will wrap in Gorai. An insider informed Mid-Day, Its a celebratory song. The unit is currently filming in Gorai, after which they will move to a set that has been constructed at Golden Tobacco in Vile Parle." The source further continued and shared that the shoot for this song will be wrapped by February 12, and following this, only a two-week shoot will remain for the war drama, which chronicles the 2020 military clash between India and China. The buzz that Salman Khan would miss his Eid release this year is growing strong. Speaking about it, the source added, Its all speculation stemming from talk that the film may need clearance from the Ministry of Defence. The makers are aiming for an Eid release. If they are unable to meet it, theyll line it up for Independence Day." Battle of Galwans Storyline Made under the direction of Apoorva Lakhia, the film takes viewers back to the harrowing 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. The story, based on the novel Indias Most Fearless 3, shows a rare border fight that turned deadly without any firearms being used. Soldiers resorted to hand-to-hand combat with sticks and stones, making it one of the most emotionally charged stories in Indian history. Salman Khan will be seen in a battle-hardened, rugged avatar, while Chitrangada Singh plays a pivotal role in the film. With its powerful narrative and tribute to the bravery of Indian soldiers, Battle of Galwan is shaping up to be a significant cinematic homage to the armed forces. For now, with no confirmation from the makers, the film is scheduled for a theatrical release on April 17. On the work front, he was last seen in Sikandar (2025), an action drama written and directed by AR Murugadoss. The film also featured Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, and Sathyaraj. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 08:48 IST News movies bollywood Salman Khan Shoots Special 'Celebratory Song' In Gorai For Battle Of Galwan: Report Samir Soni Thanks Gen-Z For Redeeming His Baghban Role As Green Flag After 23 Years Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 18:04 IST Samir Soni praised the Gen-Z reel for reframing the Baghban narrative from villain to "green flag." In Baghban, Samir Soni played the role of Amitabh Bachchan's son.(Photo Credit: Instagram) Samir Soni is celebrating a surprising cultural shift more than 20 years after the release of the family drama Baghban. Soni, who gained widespread recognition for her role as Sanjay Malhotras son in the 2003 film directed by Ravi Chopra, has long been viewed as one of the villains"ungrateful children who mistreat their elderly parents, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini. In response to a recent Instagram Reel by a Gen-Z influencer that reframed his role as a green flag," Soni publicly expressed gratitude to younger viewers for reconsidering his on-screen persona and providing him with redemption after 20 years." Gen-Z Reel Sparks Fresh Dialogue on Baghban Baghban is known for its poignant family drama that revolves around generational strife. Soni played the role of Sanjay Malhotra, the second son of Amitabhs Raj Malhotra and Hemas Pooja Malhotra, who is typically portrayed as being unappreciative of his parents. However, a widely viral Instagram reel criticised the movies storyline as being Boomer-centric", claiming that the elder characters flaws were ignored while Sanjays actions were unjustly assessed. The influencer draws attention to instances in the video where Sanjays character displays empathy and accountability, such as questioning his fathers financial decisions, listening to her wifes concerns, or gently resolving domestic issues with his parents. He asks his father why he has no savings, FDs (fixed deposits), or gratuities, showcasing his intelligence. But then a very emotional song plays in the background. The son is turned into a villain," the influencer contended. From Villain to Green Flag The influencer cited the typewriter scene as another example. When Sanjays wife asks him to request his father not to use the typewriter in the living room late at night, he kindly and patiently suggests that he move it to his bedroom or put it off until morning. However, Bachchans character becomes upset and doesnt even consider his grandsons request to use a laptop instead for the sake of a more peaceful setting. The third reason in defence of Sonis character is the Karva Chauth scene where his hungry wife goes out to dinner because she thinks her father-in-law would eat at the cafe he frequents, which he does every day. However, Bachchans character decides to forego dinner at the cafe on that particular day. Public perception for years portrayed Sonis character as a member of the opposing force to Bachchans older pair, mirroring the films viewpoint, which was deeply anchored in generational conflict and parental anxiety. Baghban has traumatised us more than it has traumatised any other generation," the influencer claimed. Samir Sonis Support to Youthful Insight Reposting the reel, Soni wrote that he enjoyed seeing how the younger generation viewed the role and praised the reinterpretation as a sort of redemption" for his character. Finally, some redemption after 20 years. Just love the new generation," Soni captioned the post. Soni talked about how the films emotional climax caused many fans to react strongly to his performance at the time of its initial release, with some openly denouncing him as the quintessential very bad son." However, he also pointed out that Baghban was written from the viewpoint of the parents, which inevitably affected how the mens behaviour was perceived. We turned the bad guys overnight because people were so relating to Amit ji and Hema ji, but that shows the films success, to have such a huge impact," Soni told SCREEN at the time. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 18:04 IST News movies bollywood Samir Soni Thanks Gen-Z For Redeeming His Baghban Role As Green Flag After 23 Years BTS Sets New Instagram Record, Wins Global Popular Artist At Hanteo Awards Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 13:42 IST BTS won the Global Popular Artist award at Hanteo Music Awards 2025 and became the first musical group to reach 78 million Instagram followers. BTS Becomes FIRST Group To Create Huge Instagram Record BTS had ARMY celebrating across time zones as the global supergroup pulled off a rare double win, one on stage and one online. On the same day, the K-pop icons clinched a major honour at the Hanteo Music Awards 2025 and made history on Instagram, proving once again that their influence stretches far beyond charts and trophies. The seven-member group took home the Global Popular Artist award at the Hanteo Music Awards, a recognition widely seen as one of the industrys most credible honours. Unlike fan-voted titles, Hanteos awards are decided through hard data, including album sales, streaming performance and verified fan engagement tracked via the Hanteo Chart. The category also evaluates an artists impact across international markets, not just South Koreamaking BTSs win a strong marker of their sustained global reach. What stood out was that this achievement came even after a period when the group was largely away from the spotlight. Despite members completing their mandatory military service, BTSs music continued to perform steadily worldwide, with albums and songs maintaining strong sales and streaming numbers throughout the hiatus. Adding to the excitement, BTS also rewrote social media history on the same day. Their official Instagram account crossed 78 million followers, making them the first musical group in the world to reach that milestone. In an era where digital presence often dips during long breaks, BTS defied the trend. Their follower count kept rising consistentlyeven before any comeback announcementshighlighting their lasting pull and loyal global fanbase. The timing of these achievements couldnt be more fitting. RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook officially reunited in 2025 after completing their service, and the group is now gearing up for a full-scale return. BTS will kick off their much-anticipated ARIRANG world tour, featuring 81 shows across 34 cities between 2026 and 2027the largest K-pop tour announced so far. Alongside the tour, BTS is set to release a new studio album on March 20, featuring 14 tracks, marking their first full-group album since reuniting. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:42 IST News movies hollywood BTS Sets New Instagram Record, Wins Global Popular Artist At Hanteo Awards Indian-Origin Man From Karnataka Shot Dead In Toronto Parking Lot Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 10, 2026, 08:55 IST The deceased, Chandan Kumar had been working in Canada for nearly six years. His parents in Karnataka were informed about the shooting incident by the police. Indian-origin man shot dead in Canada (Image credit: X/@modernPaartha) A 37-year-old man from Karnataka has died after a shooting incident in Canada. The victim, identified as Chandan Kumar, was originally from Thyamagondlu village in Nelamangala, Bengaluru, and had been living abroad for several years for work. According to an official release by Toronto Police, the attack took place on Saturday afternoon in the parking area of the Woodbine Shopping Centre near Rexdale Boulevard and Highway 27. Officers reached the spot around 3:31 PM after receiving reports of gunfire and found a man with serious gunshot injuries. He was taken to hospital but later died during treatment. Authorities confirmed the victim as Chandan Kumar Raja Nandakumar, a resident of Brampton. Investigators said several rounds were fired at the vehicle he was travelling in. A homicide probe has been launched, and further details about the suspects are yet to be released. The police rushed to the spot responding to a call reporting a shooting and found a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, where he later succumbed and was pronounced dead. Chandan Kumar had been working in Canada for nearly six years. Back in Karnataka, his parents were informed about the shooting incident by police. His father, Nandakumar, is a retired teacher, and the family is now waiting for more information from officials. A further investigation into the case is underway. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:46 IST News nri Indian-Origin Man From Karnataka Shot Dead In Toronto Parking Lot Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... More Than A Courtesy Call: Why Modis Malaysia Visit Matters Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 14:54 IST For India, deeper engagement with Southeast Asia is central to its Act East policy and its Indo-Pacific vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, right, waves to the gathering before his departure, in Malaysia. (Image: PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent visit to Malaysia came at a moment when Indias engagement with Southeast Asia is acquiring sharper economic and strategic edges. While the visit featured familiar elements including diaspora outreach, defence cooperation, trade discussions, it also revealed a growing political comfort between Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, suggesting that the relationship is moving beyond ceremonial diplomacy into a more assured partnership. Addressing an Indian community reception in Kuala Lumpur shortly after his arrival, PM Modi framed Indias global pitch around trust, calling it Indias strongest currency" and positioning New Delhi as a trusted partner for growth." In a region navigating supply-chain uncertainty, geopolitical rivalry and economic realignments, India is keen to present itself as predictable, reliable and open for long-term cooperation. Modi backed this narrative with data points that have become staples of Indias diplomatic messaging but carry particular resonance in Southeast Asia. India, he said, is now the worlds second-largest mobile phone manufacturer, its defence exports have risen nearly 30 times since 2014, and nearly half of the worlds real-time digital transactions take place in India, driven by the Unified Payments Interface and the countrys digital public infrastructure. This was not just self-congratulation but an invitation to Malaysia and ASEAN to plug into Indias economic and technological ecosystem. Diaspora, history and political warmth The diaspora dimension remained central. PM Modi acknowledged the contribution of the Indian community to Malaysias development and reiterated Indias commitment to the welfare of Indian nationals. By recalling the history of the Azad Hind Fauj and the Indian National Armys presence in Malaysia, and by paying tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Modi linked contemporary ties to a shared historical memoryan effective way of deepening emotional resonance without diluting strategic substance. Notably, Modi also referenced a personal promise. He recalled that he had been unable to visit Malaysia for the ASEAN Summit the previous year but had assured Anwar Ibrahim that he would come at the earliest opportunity. The remark showed the warmth between the two leaders, a factor that increasingly matters in a region where personal rapport often smooths bureaucratic and political hurdles. A sharper alignment on security and terrorism One may recall the Islamist turn made by former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad just a few years ago, whose heightened criticism of India and alignment with Pakistan on Kashmir soured ties and triggered Indias curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The two countries have come a long way since then. The most politically significant signal from the visit came on security. Following bilateral talks, Modi said India and Malaysia had sent a clear message on cross-border terrorism: no double standards, no compromise." Malaysias decision to publicly align with Indias position reflects a greater understanding of New Delhis long-standing concerns and signals a quiet but important convergence on counter-terrorism norms. Defence cooperation featured prominently in discussions. The sale of Dornier aircraft to Malaysia and the supply of naval platforms by Indian shipyards are under consideration, pointing to Indias expanding role as a defence manufacturing partner rather than merely an importer. For Malaysia, diversifying defence partnerships makes strategic sense; for India, such deals reinforce its ambition to be a credible security provider in the Indo-Pacific. The joint statements reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was equally telling. With the South China Sea disputes continuing to shape regional geopolitics, the emphasis on UNCLOS reflects shared support for a rules-based maritime order hinting at cooperation against Chinas belligerence in the region. In fact, Modis Malaysia outreach fits into the long game of shaping the Indo-Pacific order. Trade, technology and ASEAN centrality Economically, the relationship is on a strong footing. Bilateral trade has reached a record $19 billion, and both sides are exploring mechanisms to expand commerce through local currencies and digital payment platforms. The talk of trading in national currencies stands out, signalling that this was no ordinary engagement. Cooperation in semiconductors, digital infrastructure and emerging technologies featured prominently, reflecting how strategic trust increasingly flows through economic interdependence. Modis emphasis on ASEAN was consistent and pointed. He reiterated that India places high priority on ASEAN centrality" and said both leaders agreed on the early completion of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement review. The review of this free trade deal, the product of which is a ballooning Indian trade deficit of $45 billion with ASEAN, is therefore critical. It will determine whether India-ASEAN trade can be made more balanced, competitive and politically sustainable in the years ahead. For Malaysia, which often plays a bridging role within ASEAN, Indias renewed focus is welcome. For India, deeper engagement with Southeast Asia is central to its Act East policy and its Indo-Pacific vision. The unresolved issue: Zakir Naik One issue, however, remains unresolved the extradition of fugitive preacher Zakir Naik. There was no official confirmation from either side on whether the matter was discussed during the meeting. Indian sources said New Delhi remains in touch with Kuala Lumpur to address legal issues related to its extradition request. Both governments appear keen to prevent the issue from overshadowing a relationship that is otherwise gaining momentum. But it is concerning that the extradition of the criminal fugitive has not made the cut just yet. Modis Malaysia visit matters because it signals a relationship coming into strategic alignment at a time of regional flux. It matters because India and Malaysia are not just engaging as trading partners or diaspora-linked nations, but as stakeholders in Indo-Pacific stability, supply-chain resilience and regional rule-making. Equally, the visible ease between Modi and Anwar Ibrahim helps. The courtesy, warmth and mutual respect on display suggest that India-Malaysia ties are entering a phase where ambition is matched by political will. In a region crowded with competing powers and shifting loyalties, that is no small development. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 14:54 IST News opinion More Than A Courtesy Call: Why Modis Malaysia Visit Matters Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | A Modern Hikayat: How PM Modis Malaysia Visit Recasts Bilateral Ties Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:34 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit adds political capital as New Delhi and Kuala Lumpur seek to deepen trust amid ASEAN FTA renegotiation Rapid Read Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (PTI) In the swirling mists of Hikayat Inderaputera, that beguiling 16th-century Malay epic of princes and djinns, the main character embarks on a perilous sea voyage, guided by a magical bird across realms where the boundaries between the mortal and the mystical blur. Inderaputera seeks something beyond treasure: the elixir of wisdoma potion that binds disparate worlds in harmony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi might have nodded in recognition on this trip. Like the Hikayat, PM Modi traversed the Indian Oceans azure expanse not for conquest, but for alliance: a modern odyssey to weave Indias rising star with Malaysias steadfast orbit. Yet, as in the tale, the journey reveals both luminous prospects and lurking shadows. For two nations bound by ancient trade winds and colonial scars, this visit heralds a chapter of mutual ascentif only they navigate the tempests wisely. Defence cooperation loomed large over the summits paraphernalia. In a region where the South China Sea simmers like a cauldron of territorial djinnsChinas nine-dash line casting long shadowsthe duo elevated military cooperation to the forefront of their comprehensive strategic partnership". India and Malaysia do little for now by way of defence cooperation apart from two important biannual exercises: the two armies conduct Harimau Shakti drills, while the two navies carry out Samudra Laksamana sea exercises. That will changeand grow. PM Modis choice of Malaysia for his first overseas trip of 2026 signals Delhis pivot. This defence dovetailing could transform bilateral ties from episodic handshakes into a sinew of regional stability. No less enchanted was the ink spilled on semiconductors, that silicon sorcerers stone of the 21st century. In a flourish of accords, the two attempted to entwine their chip ambitionsa realm where both nations harbour grand designs but face supply-chain chimeras. The cornerstone: a collaboration between IIT Madrass Global Innovation Alliance and Malaysias Advanced Semiconductor Packaging and Test Facility (ASPTF), aimed at joint R&D in chip design, fabrication, and talent exchange. Malaysia, already a linchpin in the global chip supply chain, with firms like Intel and Infineon humming in Penangs free-trade zone, brings proven prowessassembling 13 per cent of the worlds tested integrated circuits. India, with its ambitious Semicon India Programme (a $10bn bet since 2021), counters with a vast engineering talent pool and incentives such as 50 per cent fiscal support for fabs. This is pragmatic alchemy. In the epics vein, where Inderaputera forges a ring of power from disparate metals, this semiconductor symbiosis promises to ring-fence supply vulnerabilities, turning geo-economic friction into fused strength. Trade, alas, remains the Hikayats thorny thicketpromising bounty but ensnared in vines of imbalance. The ledger is stark: bilateral commerce clocked $19.86 billion in 2025, with Indias exports to Malaysia a modest $7.32 billion against imports of $12.54 billion. Palm oil, electronics and chemicals flow south to north like the monsoon; Indian refined petroleum and gems trickle the reverse. This yawning gapIndias yearly deficit nearing $5 billionfuels Delhis ire, with the ASEAN-India FTA inked in 2009 now a millstone around bilateral necks. Why the rancour? One glaring grievance is the pacts lax rules of origin, which have allowed a torrent of cheap Chinese goods to be rerouted through ASEAN hubs, entering India duty-free and undercutting local industries from steel to shrimp. India wants this correctedstraightened out and tightened. For India, this is existential. Without tweaks, the FTA risks becoming a Hikayat of unrequited voyagesadventurous in intent, arid in yield. Yet hope flickers: a side deal on digital trade could unlock e-commerce flows, where Indias UPI prowess meets Malaysias fintech flair. There was also the cultural connect. Addressing the diaspora gathering in Kuala Lumpurwhere 1.8 million ethnic Indians, many Tamil speakers, form the nations third-largest grouphe declared Tamil Indias link to the world". Tributes flowed to M.G. Ramachandran, the matinee idol-turned-chief minister whose films still pack Malaysian cinemas, and to the shared lexicon of Bharatanatyam and banana-leaf banquets. Our affections converge in Tamils timeless verses," Mr Modi intoneda rare lyrical detour. This cultural crochet is no frivolity. The Tamil diaspora, descendants of 19th-century indentured labourers on British rubber estates, embodies resilient hybridity. Malaysias Little India" enclaves in Brickfields pulse with Diwali lights and dosai stalls. In the Hikayats spirit, where Inderaputera bonds with a sage through shared lore, these connections are the quiet incantations that enchant amity. Yet, for India, problems remain. Islamic jihad rears its head. For India, this is peril: the firebrand preacher Zakir Naik exemplifies the malaise. His hate-mongering and alleged terror-financing inspired the 2016 Dhaka bakery attack. Kuala Lumpur must exorcise these demons; else, they poison the well of trust. The Hikayat cautions against djinns unbound; India hopes Malaysias reformers prove the exorcists. Still, the summits ledger tilts towards tomorrows triumphs, not yesterdays thorns. India and Malaysiathese twin tigers of the tropicsbrim with symbiotic sparks. In this shared Hikayat, the horizon gleams with hope: a realm where princes and pragmatists alike forge elixirs of enduring alliance. (The writer is a senior journalist with expertise in defence. Views expressed are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of News18.) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 17:34 IST News opinion Opinion | A Modern Hikayat: How PM Modis Malaysia Visit Recasts Bilateral Ties Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | Can India Use Kuala Lumpur To Rewrite Its ASEAN Trade Deal? Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:19 IST The joint statement from the visit describes India as a vital global economic partner and puts trade, investment and technology at the core of the relationship PM Narendra Modi receives a ceremonial welcome during his official two-day visit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on February 8, 2026. (Image: PMO/PTI) PM Narendra Modis weekend in Kuala Lumpur focused on advancing IndiaMalaysia ties: forging a strategic partnership, signing new memoranda on semiconductors, health and disaster management, and marking Modis first foreign trip of 2026 with a red-carpet welcome. Malaysia is Indias third-largest trading partner in ASEAN, with bilateral trade close to $20 billion in 202425. It is also chairing the review of the ASEANIndia Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), the centrepiece of Indias free trade regime with Southeast Asia. The joint statement from the visit describes India as a vital global economic partner" and puts trade, investment and technology at the core of the relationship. Explicit emphasis has been given on semiconductors, the digital economy and industrial collaboration. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described his talks with Modi as very vital, very strategic and critical," underlining that both sides see the partnership as a strategic platform, not merely a commercial one. At the same time, the document goes out of its way to welcome" the ongoing review of AITIGA and calls for a deal that is mutually beneficial, trade-facilitative and aligned with contemporary global practices. It makes one thing very clear. India is using this bilateral track to build credibility and trust inside ASEAN just as it prepares to push hard for changes to a regional trade agreement it has long regarded as lopsided. So, Whats The Deal With ASEAN? Indias complaints about AITIGA are not abstract. Between 2011 and 2023, Indias annual trade deficit with ASEAN widened from $7.5 billion to roughly $44 billion. Imports from ASEAN grew by about 234% over that period, while Indias exports rose only about 130%. Officials and analysts point to a familiar list of problems. Tariff cuts that have created inverted duty structures for some sectors, non-tariff barriers that keep Indian goods out even where tariffs have fallen, and rules of origin that are porous enough to allow third-country products to enter India via ASEAN hubs while still claiming preferences. Malaysias role is central here. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kuala Lumpur currently chairs the AITIGA review mechanism. It is shepherding a process that has already agreed on terms of reference for reworking the pact. Indian officials describe ongoing technical discussions about expanding the number of tariff lines under deeper liberalisation, raising the average level of ASEAN tariff concessions to India, and setting a minimum proportion of tariff lines each member must open. It was also underlined that there would be nothing ready as an outcome" from the Malaysia visit itself. Much of the heavy lifting will happen in months of hard bargaining with all ten ASEAN capitals. New Delhis broader trade strategy has shifted, after walking away from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2019. India has avoided large bloc-wide compacts that could expose it to import surges and rules it does not control. As a result, it has assembled a web of trade corridors": tightly negotiated bilateral and minilateral agreements that preserve policy flexibility and seek to turn FTAs into levers for industrial upgrading, investment commitments and regulatory cooperation. AITIGA is the anomaly in this new architecture, a legacy agreement with a large deficit and weak safeguards. For both economic and political reasons, India now has strong incentives to recast its role without appearing to retreat from Southeast Asia. Thats Where Kuala Lumpur Comes In The two governments have moved quickly to translate their upgraded comprehensive strategic partnership into operational mechanisms. During the latest trip, an exchange of 11 documents spanning semiconductors, security, social security for workers, health, disaster management, vocational training and anti-corruption took place. They also announced an agreement between NPCI International and Malaysias PayNet to link digital payment systems, promising cheaper remittances, easier tourist spending and smoother transactions for small firms. It has helped knit the two economies together, smoothening economic integration efforts and in ways that outlast a single governments term. The joint statement describes the new MalaysiaIndia Digital Council as a key platform" for deepening cooperation in fintech, e-governance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure. Malaysia, which aims for its digital economy to account for over a quarter of its GDP, is explicitly seeking Indian expertise in building secure, low-cost platforms. Meanwhile, India views payment linkages and interoperable systems as a means to solidify its role as a digital hub in the region, in parallel efforts to encourage invoicing and settlement of trade in local currencies, the rupee and the ringgit. Defence and security cooperation is evolving in a similar direction. Indian officials have outlined plans for potential sales of Hindustan Aeronautics Dornier aircraft, mid-life upgrades for Malaysias Su-30 fleet and support for its Scorpene submarines, along with offers of naval platforms from Indian shipyards. The two countries have institutionalised a defence cooperation committee, created a Su-30 forum, expanded joint military exercises such as the Harimau Shakti drills, and co-chair the ASEAN Defence Ministers MeetingPlus working group on counter-terrorism for 202427. During the visit, they also formalised security cooperation at the level of their national security councils. What AITIGA 2.0 Could Look Like If New Delhi can align these bilateral gains with its ASEAN agenda, Kuala Lumpur can become a proof of concept. One lesson from Indias newer trade agreements, including its path-breaking pact with the European Free Trade Association, is that tariffs are only part of the story. The real gains often lie behind the border: in predictable regulatory processes, mutual recognition of standards, investment protections and smoother channels for professional mobility. India is increasingly using FTAs to secure long-term investment commitments and embed itself in trusted supply chains rather than chase marginal tariff cuts. Applied to ASEAN, this would mean using the AITIGA review to tackle the operational barriers that currently blunt Indian exporters prospects, while also baking in the industrial objectives of partners like Malaysia. The semiconductor agenda, prominently featured in Modis Malaysia visit, illustrates the opportunity. The two governments have launched cooperation between IIT Madras Global and Malaysias Advanced Semiconductor Academy, and between their industry associations, to build a shared talent pool and more resilient supply chains. When this collaboration matures, it becomes a template India can point to in AITIGA negotiations. Digital payments and financial connectivity have added another layer. Connecting UPI with Malaysias PayNet and encouraging local currency settlement also helps lower the friction for small businesses. The Limits of Statecraft with ASEAN AITIGA is a region-wide compact; it will ultimately be shaped in Jakarta, Hanoi, Bangkok and Manila as much as in Kuala Lumpur. Indonesia and Vietnam will have their own calculations about how far to go in correcting Indias grievances. Other ASEAN members may be wary of any move that appears to bilateralise" a regional pact, especially against the backdrop of Indias decision to stay out of RCEP. There is also a structural trade-off built into Indias corridor strategy. If AITIGA 2.0 merely adds another layer of complexity without simplifying documentation, harmonising standards or offering clear dispute resolution, the political victory of rebalancing" the deal may not translate into broad-based gains on the ground. In that scenario, Malaysia would remain a successful one-off partnership rather than a bridge to a more coherent ASEAN strategy. Yet the alternative is no longer available. Across the world, economic tools have returned to the centre of statecraft, and India is no exception. Whether India can use Kuala Lumpur to rewrite its ASEAN trade deal will depend on the next phase of negotiations. But it has already used the city to signal a more confident and more overtly strategic trade posture. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:19 IST News opinion Opinion | Can India Use Kuala Lumpur To Rewrite Its ASEAN Trade Deal? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | India-US Trade Deal: A Force Multiplier Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:26 IST PM Narendra Modi's government has navigated complex negotiations with strategic brilliance, securing a deal that boosts India's economy while safeguarding its core interests US President Donald Trump with PM Modi. (Photo: Reuters/File) Opportunities multiply as they are seized." Sun Tzu If a window of opportunity appears, dont pull down the shade." Tom Peters The India-US trade deal was an opportunity that was seized by both sides and rightfully so. Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has navigated complex negotiations with strategic brilliance, securing a deal that boosts Indias economy while safeguarding its core interests. This deal, an interim agreement at this stage, paves the path for a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement (BTA), going forward. It isnt just a trade pact but a testament to Modis visionary leadership in positioning India as a global powerhouse. On February 6, 2026, the two nations unveiled a framework for an Interim Agreement" on reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade, marking a pivotal moment in their bilateral ties. This deal, forged under the leadership of two highly dynamic leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, comes at a time when the world is grappling with tariff wars, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical shifts. For India, it is a resounding victory and one that reduces US tariffs on Indian goods to a competitive 18%, opens vast markets for Indian exports and ensures strategic autonomy without any compromises whatsoever, on sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy. The Modi governments approach to this deal exemplifies its Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) ethos. By negotiating from a position of strength, bolstered by Indias robust economic growth, diversified trade partnerships and unwavering commitment to national interests, the Modi government has turned any potential adversity into opportunity. This pact provides Indian farmers with much bigger value" and boosts their incomes, while positioning India favourably against regional hegemons like China. In an era where the USA has imposed higher tariffs on nations like China (over 35 per cent), Indias 18 per cent highlights Modis diplomatic acumen. The weighted tariff rate for India on a plethora of goods is even lower at 14.6 per cent. Bilateral trade in goods and services between the worlds two largest democracies has grown exponentially, from a modest $36 billion under the erstwhile Congress led UPA, to over $200 billion by 2025. This surge was fuelled by complementary strengthsIndias prowess in IT services, pharmaceuticals and textiles and the USAs demand for affordable, high-quality goods. Under previous Indian administrations, trade talks often stalled due to disagreements over intellectual property, agricultural subsidies and market access. However, the Modi era marked a paradigm shift. Since assuming office in 2014, Modi has prioritized economic diplomacy, signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries like the UAE, Australia, Mauritius, New Zealand, UK, Oman, EFTA and most recently, with the European Union in January 2026. These FTAs will diversify Indias export markets, reducing over-reliance on any single partner and building resilience against global shocks. The Indo-US relationship deepened during Modis first term with the 2018 2+2" ministerial dialogue, which laid the groundwork for defence and trade cooperation. Modis personal rapport with US leadersbe it Trump in his first term or Bidenhas been instrumental. Trumps 2020 visit to India, culminating in the Namaste Trump" event, symbolized this warmth, even as trade frictions simmered over issues like Harley-Davidson motorcycles and Indian steel exports. By 2025, tensions escalated when Trump, in his second term, imposed a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, plus an additional 25 per cent penalty in some cases. This pushed effective duties to 50 per cent for some sectors. Critics predicted economic fallout, but the Modi government remained unflappable. Instead of knee-jerk reactions, it leveraged domestic reforms like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost manufacturing and explored alternative markets. As a result, Indian exports to the US not only held steady but increased, with demand for Indian products rising despite higher duties. This resilience stemmed from Modis emphasis on Make in India," which enhanced product quality and competitiveness. Modis strategy was clear negotiate patiently, protect farmers and MSMEs and extract concessions that align with Indias long-term goals. The interim deal is the fruition of this approach, transforming a potential trade war into a collaborative partnership. Trumps America First" policy led to tariff hikes on multiple nations, creating a ripple effect. Countries like Japan, South Korea and the EU quickly capitulated, agreeing to penal rates in exchange for market access. India, however, stood firm. Modi instructed negotiators to prioritize sovereignty, rejecting any deal that compromised energy security or agricultural interests. Key turning points included Modis phone call with Trump on February 3, 2026, where the US President acknowledged Indias strategic importance. Let Truth be toldTrump is a hugely popular leader in the USA, having been written off by adversaries but yet, making a comeback like a phoenix, to rewrite history. As for Narendra Modi, with more than 25 years in public life, having never ever lost an election and the only Prime Minister in over 62 years to become the PM for the third time in a row, beating every single odd, Modis meteoric rise as the worlds tallest global Statesman, is the stuff legendary folk-tales are made of. Hence with two such strong personalities, a deal would have had its fair share of ups and downs before being sealed. And that is precisely what happened. The India-US Trade Deal, did take a while and while final modalities are being given finishing touches, nothing can take away from the fact that India, the worlds largest democracy and the USA, the worlds oldest democracy, are finally coming together, to reshape the global order. It underscores Modis ability to turn global headwinds into tailwinds, much like his deft handling of the COVID-19 crisis through vaccine diplomacy. The joint statement outlines a reciprocal pact that benefits both sides while tilting advantages toward India. Central to it is the US reducing tariffs on Indian goods to 18%, with zero duties on generics, gems, diamonds, aircraft parts, steel, aluminium and copper. Sensitive items like wheat, rice, maize, poultry, dairy, ethanol and tobacco are fully safeguarded, protecting over 85 per cent of Indian farmers. This reflects Modis farmer-first policy, evident in schemes like PM-KISAN and the repeal of contentious farm laws in 2021. Indias intention to purchase $500 billion in US goods over five years, focusing on energy, aircraft and tech, secures supply chains without binding commitments, which bodes well for India. For instance, orders for Boeing aircraft by IndiGo and Air India will create jobs in aviation maintenance. The framework also addresses non-tariff barriers, streamlining certifications and reducing paperwork, which benefits our MSMEs. Sectors like textiles, leather and artisanal products gain preferential quotas, fostering female employment and empowering rural economies. Overall, the deal is reciprocal and balanced," as per the White House, but Modi governments rigorous negotiations ensured India extracts maximum value. The interim agreement is poised to supercharge Indias economy. With access to a $30 trillion US market, Indian exports could surge by 20-30 per cent annually, adding $15 to $20 billion in the first year alone. Zero tariffs on generics open doors for $20 billion in additional exports, supporting giants like Sun Pharma and TCS. The GPU purchases will hedge against AI disruptions, preserving 4 million IT jobs. Lower duties will revive the textile sector, creating 1 million jobs in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, alone. Modis PLI scheme has already attracted over $10 billion in investments; this deal amplifies it. While imports are limited, exports of processed foods will rise, increasing farmer incomes by 15-20 per cent, annually. Safeguards will ensure no dumping harms Indias local producers. The $500 billion purchases over next few years will fuel Indias energy security, supporting the green transition with US LNG and tech. This could lower our energy costs by 10 per cent, benefiting manufacturing. Macro-economically, the deal aligns with Modis Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, potentially pushing GDP growth to double digits. It also enhances Indias trade surplus with the US ($46 billion in 2024), countering deficit concerns. Beyond economics, the deal reinforces Indias strategic autonomy. Tech cooperation in AI and data centres positions India as a digital leader, reducing the China dependency. Defence ties, already strong via QUAD, will deepen with aircraft parts at zero tariffs. Compared to other nations, India secured better terms; lower than Vietnams 20 per cent and negotiable further downward. This deal validates Modis multi-alignment" foreign policy, balancing ties with the US, Russia, European Union and others. Claims of capitulation by Rahul Gandhi and his acolytes, simply reflect a case of sour grapes". The Congress led UPA could never stitch together a deal of such mammoth proportions. This deals interim nature allows refinements, ensuring long-term wins. The Indo-US Trade Deal is in many ways, a triumph of Modis leadership patient, principled and people-centric. By securing competitive tariffs, protecting farmers and unlocking markets, it propels India towards economic superpower status. With this pact, India isnt just trading goods; it is trading up to a future-ready Bharat. The biggest opportunity one can have is to grab the right one at the right time. And the India-US Trade Deal certainly fits the bill, for all the key stakeholders. The author is an economist, national spokesperson for BJP and bestselling author of The Modi Gambit. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:26 IST News opinion Opinion | India-US Trade Deal: A Force Multiplier Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | Will The US Attack IranOr Has It Finally Learnt How Wars Are Won? Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:02 IST The real question is not whether the US can attack Iran. It is whether it has finally learnt enough not to do so the old way Rapid Read Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and US President Donald Trump. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Delhis wedding season has a way of throwing together strangers under chandeliers and soft music, where casual conversation drifts effortlessly from decor to geopolitics. Lately, one question keeps surfacingoften from people I have never met before: When, if at all, will the US attack Iran? The interesting thing is that most who ask the question already have an answer in mind. They believe it is all brinkmanshipanother escalation ladder being climbed for effect rather than outcome. That Donald Trump will push matters one or two notches higher, but no further. Wars of this kind, they argue, are unwinnable. I usually reinforce their instinct by pointing to Israels ongoing experience in Gaza. Despite overwhelming military superiority and extraordinary asymmetry against Hamas, Israel has not won in the sense the public understands victory. That is not a criticism; it is a reminder that there are immutable elements in warfare that technology, firepower, and intelligence cannot override. Much depends on what you are trying to achieve. If the objective is total annihilation, seizure of territory, regime overthrow, and the symbolic unfurling of ones flag on an adversarys soil, then conventional waras popularly imaginedstill has relevance. But if the aim is more ambiguousto influence a population, weaken a hostile ideology, coerce a regime into behavioural change, or bring a wayward state back onto the railsthen brute force is usually counterproductive. People do not rally to those who destroy their cities, even if they dislike those who govern them. The US itself offers the clearest lessonsand warningson this distinction, particularly from Irans own neighbourhood. In Gulf War I, Washington demonstrated remarkable strategic clarity. Saddam Husseins attempt to occupy Kuwait and threaten Saudi Arabia was countered decisively. Military, political, and diplomatic objectives were tightly aligned. Coalition warfare was precise, limited, and disciplined. Crucially, the US stopped short of regime change and territorial occupation. Saddam was weakened, not removed. The regional balance was restored. By the standards of limited war, it was a success. Gulf War II was something else entirely. The US pursued shock and awe as a doctrine, treating destruction itself as a tool of coercion. Regime change was executed. Territory was occupied. But political control did not follow military success. Instead, the vacuum gave rise to sectarian violence, Shia militancy, and ultimately the emergence of ISIS. Eight years later, the US withdrew with most of its strategic objectives unmetand a region left more unstable than before. The lesson should have been unmistakable: military victory does not equal political control. And yet, the question that keeps returning is whether the American strategic establishmentthe so-called deep state that advises, plans, and executes military powerhas fully absorbed this. Or does it still draw lessons primarily from success, while mentally filing failures as anomalies? Years ago, while attending a programme in Hawaii, I put this question directly to Dennis Blair, then Commander-in-Chief of the US Pacific Command and later Director of National Intelligence. Why, I asked, does the US appear to learn so much from its victories and so little from its failures? He did not dispute the premise. In fact, he agreedentirely. That admission should haunt current debates on Iran. Iran is not Iraq. It is not Libya. It is not Afghanistan. It is a civilisational state with deep historical memory, institutional density, and a population conditionedculturally and politicallyto endure pain in the name of resistance. External military pressure, particularly from the US or Israel, is more likely to consolidate nationalist sentiment than fracture it. Sanctions have hurt Iran, but they have not broken it. Air strikes may degrade capabilities, but they will not reorder loyalties. If regime change is the objective, then the conventional military playbook is the wrong instrument. This is where the concept of hybrid war becomes centralnot as a buzzword, but as a discipline. Hybrid conflict is not about doing everything at once; it is about sequencing pressure across political, economic, informational, social, and covert domains. It recognises that regimes rarely fall because they are attacked from outside; they fall when cohesion erodes within. The US, for all its power, has often struggled with this subtlety. It has been far better at removing regimes than at shaping what follows. Iran would test this weakness far more severely than any previous case. Ironically, the US has no shortage of intellectual capital to think this through. Washington hosts more think tanks than many cities have restaurants. Strategic ideas abound. The question is not whether options exist, but whether patience exists. Hybrid approaches demand time, restraint, and acceptance of ambiguityqualities often in short supply in election-driven democracies. So, what should American strategists be discussing about Iran? First, how to separate regime pressure from national humiliation. Second, how to exploit internal fractures without owning the outcome publicly. Third, how to avoid turning popular discontent into nationalist defiance. And finally, how to define success in terms other than regime collapse. If these questions are not central to the debate, then any action against Iranmilitary or otherwiserisks repeating familiar errors. Which brings me back to those wedding conversations. The instinctive scepticism of ordinary peoplethat this is all brinkmanship, that wars like this do not end wellmay be more strategically grounded than many realise. The real question is not whether the US can attack Iran. It is whether it has finally learnt enough not to do so the old way. (The writer is the former Commander of Indias Srinagar-based Chinar Corps. Currently he is the Chancellor of the Central University of Kashmir and a member of the National Disaster Management Authority. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:02 IST News opinion Opinion | Will The US Attack IranOr Has It Finally Learnt How Wars Are Won? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: February 08, 2026, 20:46 IST 1 / 11 1. London: London consistently ranks as the worlds best city due to its unmatched global influence. It excels in culture, education, economic opportunity and connectivity. With world-class universities, a thriving financial sector, rich history, and diverse neighbourhoods, London combines heritage with innovation better than almost any city. (Image: Pranay Maniar) 2 / 11 2. New York: New York remains a global powerhouse for business, media and culture. Home to Wall Street, Broadway and major global institutions, it leads in economic strength and cultural vibrancy. Its diversity, energy and ability to attract talent from across the world keep it at the heart of global urban life. (Image: Adobe Stock) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 11 3. Paris: Paris scores high for culture, beauty and liveability. Renowned for its art, fashion, cuisine and architecture, the French capital blends romance with economic relevance. Strong public transport, walkability and cultural institutions make Paris not just a tourist favourite but also a highly desirable global city. 4 / 11 4. tokyo: Tokyo is celebrated for safety, efficiency and innovation. The city seamlessly merges tradition with futuristic technology. Its excellent infrastructure, punctual public transport, clean streets and strong economy make it one of the most liveable megacities in the world, while its food and pop culture enjoy global appeal. (Image: Frommers) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 11 5. Madrid: Madrid scores highly for lifestyle, culture and affordability compared to other major European capitals. The city is known for its vibrant street life, museums, food culture and strong public transport. With a growing startup ecosystem and improving global connectivity, Madrid blends historic charm with modern urban energy. (Image: iStock) 6 / 11 6. Singapore: Singapore excels in governance, safety and economic competitiveness. It is a major global hub for finance, trade and technology. Known for clean streets, green urban planning and efficient public services, the city-state offers high quality of life and strong global connectivity. (Image: iStock) ADVERTISEMENT 7 / 11 7. Rome: Rome ranks among the worlds best cities for its unmatched historical and cultural depth. Home to ancient landmarks, Vatican City and world-class museums, the Italian capital blends living history with modern urban life. Its cuisine, walkable streets and global tourism appeal continue to give Rome enduring international influence. (Image: Italy) 8 / 11 8. Dubai: Dubai stands out for ambition and rapid development. It has transformed into a global business, tourism and innovation hub. With world-class infrastructure, futuristic architecture and strong connectivity between East and West, Dubai continues to attract global talent, investors and millions of visitors every year. (Image: Go City) ADVERTISEMENT 9 / 11 9. Berlin: Berlin stands out for its creative energy, affordability and historical significance. The city is a major European hub for startups, technology and culture, attracting young talent from across the world. With strong public transport, vibrant nightlife and a rich history, Berlin balances innovation with remembrance. (Image: Pelago) 10 / 11 10. Barcelona: Barcelona is celebrated for quality of life, architecture and culture. With iconic landmarks, Mediterranean beaches and vibrant street life, the city balances tourism with livability. Strong urban design, creative industries and a relaxed lifestyle make Barcelona one of Europes most attractive cities. (Image: Pelago) ADVERTISEMENT 'Deliberate Conspiracy': Chandrababu Naidu Slams YSRCP As Tirupati Laddoo Row Rekindles Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 11:47 IST Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu hit back at the opposition YSR Congress as allegations of adulterated ghee used to make laddoos at Tirupati temple surfaced. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu alleges 'deliberate conspiracy' as allegations of adulterated ghee resurfaces Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu hit back at the opposition YSR Congress of ex-CM Jagan Mohan Reddy as fresh allegations of adulterated ingredients used to make laddoos at the famous Tirupati temple surfaced. Speaking to news agency PTI, CM Naidu described the incident as a deliberate conspiracy", slamming the previous YSR Congress government over the allegations. It is a deliberate conspiracy. One can commit a mistake by ignorance that can be pardoned. But If you do it deliberately, that is not good", the Chief Minister told news agency PTI. Suppose ordinary ghee costs Rs 450, somebodys paying Rs 230. What will they get except for chemical mixing? There are some companies mixing animal/vegetable fat in the ghee", he stated. VIDEO | PTI Exclusive: Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu slams YSRCP over Tirupati laddu issue, calls it a deliberate conspiracy.(Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/0h46NVc7sC Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 8, 2026 Earlier, the ruling TDP had alleged that during the previous YSRCP government, the laddoos were prepared using ghee mixed with chemicals used to clean bathrooms". Addressing a village meeting at Kalugotla village in Kurnool district, he alleged that the previous government tried to undermine the prestige of Lord Venkateswara Swamy with adulterated prasadam (devotional offerings). YSRCP Hits Back Hitting back at the claims, the YSRCP reminded Naidu, whose TDP is in an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party at the centre, that laddoos were sent to the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya a grand event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi among other dignitaries on January 22, 2024. Notably, YSR Congress have been arguing that a special team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have a clean chit, stating no adulteration occurred. At the same time, the TDP boss alleged that Jagan Mohan Reddys uncle, YV Subba Reddy, had attempted to block lab reports from surfacing that stated otherwise. As the political drama intensified, Subba Reddy, a Rajya Sabha MP, refuted the allegations. If it was suppressed, then why would I even write to CFTRI to test the samples in the first place," he claimed. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Andhra Pradesh, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:47 IST News politics 'Deliberate Conspiracy': Chandrababu Naidu Slams YSRCP As Tirupati Laddoo Row Rekindles Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... I Am In Depression: Tej Pratap Rejects Child Claim, Alleges Conspiracy By Five Jaichands Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 09:15 IST Tej Pratap Yadav named Mukesh Raushan, Sanjay Yadav, Shakti Singh Yadav, Rameez and Sunil Singh as the Jaichands. He said he would move court and take legal action against them. Janshakti Janta Dal (JJD) leader Tej Pratap Yadav. (PTI/File) JJD chief and Lalu Prasad Yadavs estranged son Tej Pratap Yadav has rejected claims circulating on social media that a woman, with whom he was falsely" linked months ago, has given birth to his child. He called the claim a conspiracy to defame him and said the matter should be investigated. I reject this claim. This is a conspiracy hatched by Mukesh Roshan and all these jaichands in collusion to defame me. It should be investigated who Akash Bhati is, who has a relationship with that girl," Yadav told ANI. Tej Pratap names Jaichands, vows legal action Yadav named Mukesh Raushan, Sanjay Yadav, Shakti Singh Yadav, Rameez and Sunil Singh as the Jaichands". He said he would move court and take legal action against them, including a Rajya Sabha MP and a member of the legislative council. Recently, I hosted a well-attended feast on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. This has made my rivals wary of the prospects of my party," he said. Yadav was expelled from the Rashtriya Janata Dal last year after a Facebook post surfaced showing him with a woman, referred to as his girlfriend, claiming they had been in a relationship for 12 years. He said the post was the result of his profile being hacked by the five Jaichands". #WATCH | Patna, Bihar | JJD chief Tej Pratap Yadav says, " I reject this (blessed with a child) claim. This is a conspiracy hatched by Mukesh Roshan and all these 'jaichands' in collusion to defame me. It should be investigated who Akash Bhati is, who has a relationship with that pic.twitter.com/GV9VFXLHv0 ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2026 I am completely depressed: Tej Pratap Yadav said he was distraught by the rumours and under mental stress. Pura depression me hai hum. We will submit our application, we will go to court," he said. He also questioned the relationship between Anushka Yadav and Akash Bhati. I know the person with whom the woman is in a relationship and who, I believe, is the father of the child. They are causing mental anguish to me by dragging my name," he said. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Bihar, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 08:53 IST News politics I Am In Depression: Tej Pratap Rejects Child Claim, Alleges Conspiracy By Five Jaichands Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Kerala Will See Change: Amit Shah Slams Failed Development Under Communists Ahead Of Polls Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 08:27 IST With elections nearing, Amit Shah criticised Keralas communist government, calling the ideology destructive and claiming communists barely exist in India today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah (Credits: Amit Shah/X) With months left for the Kerala Assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday criticised the communist government in the state and said India must move away from communist ideology. He said Kerala would soon see change. Communist ideology symbol of destruction Speaking at an event titled Chhattisgarh@25: Shifting The Lens, the Union Home Minister said the government intends to completely eliminate Maoist influence and urged people to recognise what he described as the damaging effects of communist ideology. According to him, regions under communist rule have lagged in development. He also alleged that, in the name of tribal welfare, people were pushed towards armed activity, calling the ideology destructive in nature. Shah said, We will uproot the Maoist problem from its roots. But the public of this country must understand this ideology. Wherever communist rule has existed, development has failed to take place. In the name of tribal welfare, people were instead handed weapons. This ideology itself is a symbol of destruction." He added that communists barely exist today. Today, communists have to be searched for with a telescope- they barely exist anymore. Only Kerala remains, and this time that too will come to an end. The people themselves will do it. The people of Thiruvananthapuram have already begun," he said. Shun violence: Shah to Maoists Shah also appealed to Maoists to surrender and said the government would welcome them. He said the country needs to get rid of the destructive" communist ideology at the earliest. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 08:06 IST News politics Kerala Will See Change: Amit Shah Slams Failed Development Under Communists Ahead Of Polls Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... From No-Confidence Motion Against Speaker To Rahul Gandhi's 4 Grievances, No End To Parliament Stalemate Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 20:05 IST A deadlock following last week's Lok Sabha ruckus continues after a meeting between the ruling and opposition sides ended without any breakthrough From a possible no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla (L) by the opposition to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's (R) "grievances", the situation in Parliament is fraught with uncertainty despite high-level meetings. (Image: PTI) The Parliament stalemate resulting from last weeks ruckus in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing Budget session continues, with neither the ruling side or the opposition willing to yield ground. From a possible no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker by the opposition to Congress MP Rahul Gandhis grievances", the situation in Parliament is fraught with uncertainty despite high-level meetings. But central to this deadlock are four specific issues raised by Rahul Gandhi, who is leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha. According to government sources, these have become the primary hurdles to achieving any form of consensus, not only between the ruling and opposing sides but also within the opposition. Here is all you need to know: The sources said the first issue involves allegations against women opposition MPs. The second point of contention concerns the suspension of eight opposition MPs till the end of the session, which has become a significant flashpoint. The third matter is about the demand to allow BJP MP Nishikant Dubey to speak in the Lok Sabha. The sources said while Dubey had attempted to raise certain matters, the Chair ultimately did not grant him permission and several portions of his address were subsequently removed from the official records. Finally, the fourth conflict focuses on the oppositions demand that Gandhi be able to address the House. While the government has maintained that he may speak with the Chairs approval, it expressed concern that he may raise the same issues again, potentially resulting in further disruptions. ALSO READ | Can Lok Sabha Speaker Be Impeached And What Is The Process? WHAT DOES THE RULING SIDE SAY? The sources said the government has defended its stance, relying heavily on House rules and video evidence. Regarding the allegations against women MPs, it said video footage clearly shows they were moving towards the Prime Ministers seat contradicting the oppositions version. The government has adopted a firm line on the suspended MPs, insisting that discussions on revoking it can only take place once the normal functioning of the House" is restored. WHAT DOES THE OPPOSITION SAY? The opposition, however, is itself navigating internal fractures. The sources said a proposed no-confidence motion against the Speaker lacks unanimous support within. Specifically, the Trinamool Congress and NCP are reportedly not in favour of the move. Instead, a majority of opposition parties are said to be keen on ensuring the House functions properly, preferring to prioritise public interest issues over confrontations. A meeting on Monday between leaders from the ruling and opposition sides failed to achieve any breakthrough as both stood firm on their positions. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 20:00 IST News politics From No-Confidence Motion Against Speaker To Rahul Gandhi's 4 Grievances, No End To Parliament Stalemate Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Rahul Gandhi Said Is Not 100% Correct, Speaker Only Wanted To Resolve Deadlock: Kiren Rijiju Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:56 IST Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "Speaker had said that if a solution is found & House functions, then Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders will speak" Kiren Rijiju clarified on Rahul Gandhi's (right) claims. (PTI/File) Lok Sabha saw chaos on Monday, as Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Speaker had promised to allow him to speak on certain issues, while the chair, Sandhya Ray, said that as no such notice had been received, he should stick to the Budget in his speech. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, however, clarified that the Speaker had taken the initiative to resolve the deadlock and what Gandhi claimed was not 100% correct". What Rahul Gandhi said When the House met at 2 pm after two adjournments, Sandhya Ray asked Congress member Shashi Tharoor to initiate the debate on the Budget. Tharoor told the Chair that Gandhi, being the Leader of Opposition (LoP), should be allowed to raise certain points before he starts his speech. Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said, An hour ago, a Member of the House went to the Speaker, the Speaker committed to us that I will be allowed to speak here and raise some points before the budget discussion. Now, you are going back on your word. So Id like to know, am I allowed to speak those points or not?" #WATCH | Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says, An hour ago, a Member of the House went to the Speaker, the Speaker committed to us that I will be allowed to speak here and raise some points before the budget discussion. Now, you are going back on your word. So Id pic.twitter.com/iS8B1ahfGa ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 Ray said she was not aware of any such agreement and that she could not allow anyone to raise any issue without notice. Kiren Rijijus clarification Rijiju said, I want to clarify that the Speaker took an initiative to resolve deadlock. What Rahul Gandhi said is not 100 per cent correct. The Speaker had said that if a solution is found and the House functions, then Rahul Gandhi, followed by other party leaders and Parliamentary Affairs minister, will speak." Rijiju said if the LoP wanted to say something about the Speaker, then Birla should also be present in the House to respond. With neither side budging from its position, Ray adjourned the House for the day. Parliament is not a place for gundagardi, Congress preventing proceedings Earlier on Monday, Rijiju strongly criticised Congress MPs for disrupting Lok Sabha proceedings, alleging unruly behaviour inside the Speakers chamber and accusing the party of deliberately stalling Parliament. Reacting to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birlas warning to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on safety, Rijiju said the conduct of Congress MPs was unacceptable. This comes after Birla on Thursday said he had advised PM Modi not to attend the House to prevent any unpleasant incident after receiving information that some Congress MPs could approach the PMs seat and resort to an unprecedented incident." Reacting to this, Rijiju said, There are not enough words to condemn the behaviour of the Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha Speakers chamber. When the Congress partys leader has no control over himself, then what the Speaker has done is right." He further alleged that the Congress had planned to create chaos when the Prime Minister entered the House. How the Congress planned to snatch away papers from the PM when he comes to the House. Parliament is not a place for gundagardi. But when the Congress came to it, we acted with restraint. There is a limit to everything," Rijiju added. The Union Minister said the government was keen to run the House, but disruptions were hindering parliamentary business. We want to run the House. If the Congress doesnt want the House to function, then the other MPs will have to suffer its loss," he further said. In a separate statement, Rijiju said the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the Presidents Address could not be held due to continued disruptions. He alleged that the Congress leadership in the Lok Sabha was deliberately preventing proceedings. With ANI, PTI Inputs News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 14:49 IST News politics What Rahul Gandhi Said Is Not 100% Correct, Speaker Only Wanted To Resolve Deadlock: Kiren Rijiju Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Apples Big Early 2026 Launch Plan: iPhone 17e, New iPad And More Expected Soon Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 11:21 IST Apple is getting close to its big start to 2026 with not just a new iPhone or a MacBook Pro but a few more other big products. The M5 Pro and M5 Max versions of the MacBook Pro are coming soon Apple is set to kick off its big 2026 launch plans with not one or two but around four new products expected to be announced over the course of next few weeks. The tip suggests the company is likely to introduce the iPhone 17e model, as many expect, this month, but has other products in the pipeline waiting to be unleashed in the market. Apple is also going to have a new iPad launching, along with a more powerful version of the MacBook Pro and getting close to bringing the AI version Siri assistant. These products have been mentioned plenty of times before but the new Bloomberg reports gives us more insight and details about whats expected from the company. Apple Set For Early 2026 Launch Spree The report reaffirms that Apple will be launching the iPhone 17e model first and we could see it powered by the A19 chipset this year and available without any hike in its price. Apple launched the iPhone 16e in February last year and history could repeat again with the iPhone 17e also tipped to be announced sometime this month in the market. iPhone 17e is likely to replace the 16e as the most affordable in the Apple lineup and the company will be hoping the new version fares better than the first model. You should also not expect premium features like ProMotion 120Hz display on the 17e, as it will continue to support the standard 60Hz refresh rate on the regular 6.1-inch OLED panel. Apple launched the iPhone 16e for Rs 59,900 in India for the 128GB base mode but this year the iPhone 17e could get a base 256GB storage model, and that could push the company to marginally increase its price in India. The other products expected are the 12-gen iPad with a similar design, improved hardware that will bring Apple AI to the base model, and some other tweaks. The MacBook Pro M5 Pro version is also tipped to be introduced in the market soon, and this product will also carry forward the existing design from the series. But the most significant news from the company could be about the AI-powered Siri that is said to be rolling out with the iOS 26.4 beta version later this month before its much anticipated release in March or early April. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:21 IST News tech Apples Big Early 2026 Launch Plan: iPhone 17e, New iPad And More Expected Soon Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Google Warns Millions Of Android Users About Major Malware Attacks Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 08:15 IST Android users are being warned about a very big change that Google is helpless to support them with and this notice clears that up. Android malware attacks are scary but Google is issuing its own concerns More than million of Android users have been warned about possible malware attacks that can be targeted at their devices. Google has been quoted saying this by Forbes in its report, where it says Google has referred to a large-scale risk that poses millions of Android devices to possible exploit and data theft. The company regularly updates its Android distribution charts, keeping us informed about how the new versions are faring and how many phones are getting the latest versions. But it seems Google continues to have the age-old problem of millions still running on outdated versions, which leaves them vulnerable to attacks. Android 12 Still Persists Googles ongoing focus is on Android 13 and later versions which currently occupies around 58 percent of the total device user base across the globe. But this also means that around 40 percent of Android users are extremely vulnerable to malware and cyber attacks as their devices are not updated to the latest patches and they will not get anymore from the company. It is quite staggering to see people still using phones with 4 years old Android versions but also shows you the difference between Apple and Googles approach towards updates for its older devices. The iPhone maker had recently warned users about some issues, for which it even issued an update for a 13-year-old iPhone 5 model. On the other hand, you have Google suggesting those with an Android 12 device or even 13 version should seriously consider upgrading, which means you have to spend extra on a new phone. Android Phones Not Safe: What To Do? Having around 40 million devices unsafe is not ideal and Google should do more than just warn people about it and ask them to upgrade. But to be fair, the company mentions that using an unsafe high-end Android phone could be a lot riskier than a mid-range phone which will get more updates. Could Google revise its overall update strategy and include more devices to the roster, absolutely but the nature of Android in the market means it doesnt have complete control like Apple (except for the Pixels), which allows the Android distribution to be longer and widespread. Buying a phone with Android 13 doesnt make sense in 2026, especially with the Android 17 version on its way in the next few months from the company. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 08:15 IST News tech Google Warns Millions Of Android Users About Major Malware Attacks Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... A leading infectious disease expert says authorities are "keeping a close eye on what's happening overseas", after a woman died in Bangladesh from Nipah virus late last month. UNSW's Professor Raina MacIntyre said that while the risk of the disease landing in Australia is low, being prepared is key. So far, the virus has been detected in Bangladesh and India in 2026. Thirty-five people in Bangladesh who had been in contact with the woman who died have all tested negative for the virus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two cases of Nipah virus were detected in West Bengal, India last month. It prompted airport screenings at several Asian airports. No cases of the virus have ever been detected in Australia, and health experts stress the overall risk to Australians remains minimal. However, the outbreaks have reignited public discussion about how Australian authorities would respond if a case were detected locally, including whether measures used during the Covid-19 pandemic such as lockdowns would ever be considered again. In an interview with Yahoo News, Professor MacIntyre explained that many lessons have been learned since the coronavirus outbreak, and there are strict protocols in place should Nipah be detected locally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have a story? Contact newsroomau@yahoonews.com Asian airports are screening for the Nipah virus following cases detected in India and Bangladesh. Source: AP (ASSOCIATED PRESS) What would happen if Nipah virus was detected in Australia? In the first 48 hours after detection, isolation is key, alongside rapid risk assessment and contact tracing. "The first issue is diagnosing it, and that comes down to a travel history," she said. "If someone presents to an emergency department with a fever and an illness compatible with Nipah virus, they should be asked, 'Have you travelled in the last week or so?' Related: Australia urged to 'plan and prepare' for Nipah virus amid outbreak of 'terrible disease' "If they say India or Bangladesh or the other couple of hotspots nearby in the world, then and they test negative to everything else they should be tested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And there are protocols for all of that." Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, where two Nipah cases were detected in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal. Source: AP (ASSOCIATED PRESS) During this early period, public health authorities would also begin identifying and monitoring close contacts, including household members and healthcare workers, while laboratories conduct confirmatory testing. Broader community restrictions would not be expected at this stage, as experts say Nipah does not spread easily between people. In NSW, for example, theres a high containment pathogen unit at Westmead Hospital, Professor MacIntyre added. "If theyre suspected of having Nipah, they would go there and be isolated and investigated," she said. Could we see Covid-era restrictions return? Professor MacIntyre said that, given the virus's limited human-to-human transmission, lockdowns would not be necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Not with this virus. Not at this stage," she said. "A lockdown is a last resort measure when health systems are collapsing and overwhelmed and cant deal with cases, and people are dying, and were nowhere near that. "Theres no indication that this lethal virus is going to cause a pandemic. It just doesnt spread easily between humans." Cases of Nipah virus infection were first reported in 1998 and since then have been reported in Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fruit bats are the natural host of the virus. The woman who died in Bangladesh had a history of consuming raw date palm sap. Professor MacIntyre said that the two cases in West Bengal, a region that hasn't seen Nipah for nearly 20 years, involved two nurses who likely contracted the virus from an undiagnosed patient, rather than from animals. She added that both India and Bangladesh are endemic for Nipah, with periodic outbreaks, and that there is currently no vaccine or treatment. "There is research, and there is a vaccine in development," she said. Most infections occur through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments for example, in India and Bangladesh, drinking palm sap contaminated by bats is a common route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Human-to-human transmission is occasional but rare. However, while Covid19 initially had a mortality rate of around two per cent, Nipah is much deadlier, with a mortality rate of 40 to 70 per cent. "There are lots of lessons to learn from Covid, and hopefully all of those things will make us better prepared," she said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. YouTube Brings AI-Powered Auto-Dubbing Feature To All Users: How It Works Curated By : Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 13:21 IST YouTube is offering people the chance to watch more diverse videos and not limited to their original language. YouTube is putting AI to good use and making people watch diverse videos YouTube has introduced its AI-powered feature for all the users earlier this month. The streaming platform continues to widen its reach and using AI it wants more people to watch diverse content without having the language limitations. The auto-dubbing option is being made available for billions of YouTube users who can now access content in over 27 languages and restricted to videos that are available in their original dialect. The feature has been around for a while but YouTube has limited its reach with select content getting the support. Now it will work for all videos and for everyone. YouTube Auto-Dubbing Now Available For Everyone YouTube made the big reveal about auto-dubbing earlier this month, and shared the details about use, its utility and how it makes watching videos more expansive. The company assures that since its first release, auto-dubbing now sounds more natural and not robotic across the content. Using AI probably allows the platform to make the audio seamlessly dub the content without facing audio sync issues. You will get the feature in the advanced settings on YouTube, where you can manually select from Dutch, Hindi, German, French for the original English content. The technology is also being used to make the dubbed content look better with the lip sync doing its regular job and not offer a jarring experience to the viewer. Meanwhile, YouTube continues to block more users from using this popular feature which has become part of its premium offering for a few years. The platform offers background playback which means the song can continue playing even when the screen is turned off or you access other apps on the device. This is mostly a premium feature but many users bypassed this restriction by using it for free via third-party web browsers that dont redirect you to the Android app for the streaming platform. Now reports suggest even these routes to use the option free are being blocked by the company. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:21 IST News tech YouTube Brings AI-Powered Auto-Dubbing Feature To All Users: How It Works Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Royal Family Ex-Staffer Spills Secrets On Palace Life, Reveals Who Was Horrible Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 15:36 IST While the Royal Family ex-staffer declined to disclose her exact role to avoid being identified, she said she worked in the food branch of the household. A former royal staffers anonymous Reddit Q&A has gone viral. (Representative Image) The British Royal Family has long projected an image of dignity, tradition and restraint, but a recent Reddit post is offering a very different glimpse behind the scenes. A former employee of the Royal Family recently held an anonymous question-and-answer session on Reddit, where she spoke openly about her experience serving the monarchy. The post quickly went viral, drawing attention for its blunt tone and unfiltered claims. The woman chose not to reveal her identity but shared proof of her employment with The Firm" directly with moderators of the Royals Gossip subreddit, who confirmed that she had indeed worked for the Royal Family. Working For The Royal Household According to her post, the former staffer worked for the Royal Family for around four years, with her employment ending roughly three to four years ago. While she declined to disclose her exact role to avoid being identified, she said she worked in the food branch" of the household. She also revealed that during the COVID-19 period, she was temporarily allowed to assist in housekeeping duties. During Covid, I was allowed to work temporarily in housekeeping as well, which was interesting," she wrote, adding that it gave her broader exposure to how the household functioned on a daily basis. It is important to note that News18 was unable to verify the claims. How Senior Royals Treated Staff The ex-employee said she interacted most frequently with Queen Elizabeth II, whom she described as nice, polite" and always willing to engage in conversation, even if it felt awkward at times. Her interactions with other royals were more limited and usually took place during events or travel. She also addressed long-standing rumours about King Charles III, confirming that stories about his exacting standards were accurate. All the rumours about his level of demands are true," she wrote, claiming that shoe laces were pressed, clothes laid out precisely, toothpaste squeezed for his toothbrush and even baths run according to preference. She described Queen Camilla as harmless enough" but not personable" and quite awkward". According to her, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, were consistently polite and friendly towards staff. Incredibly Horrible: Claims Against Prince Andrew Her strongest criticism was reserved for Prince Andrew. The former staffer described him as incredibly horrible and abusive to staff", alleging that he was rude, spent much of his time watching television and made inappropriate remarks to young housemaids. She further claimed that complaints against him were rarely addressed properly. Nothing was ever done about this, and usually, if anyone made a complaint, it was dealt with by pushing out the complaining staff member," she wrote. When asked directly whether reports of him yelling at staff were true, she replied, Yes, pretty much," adding elsewhere, Beyond rude doesnt even cover it." Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal titles following the fallout from his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a controversy that continues to shadow his public image. The Reddit thread has since sparked widespread discussion online, with many users debating palace culture and the power dynamics faced by those working behind closed royal doors. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 09, 2026, 15:28 IST News viral Royal Family Ex-Staffer Spills Secrets On Palace Life, Reveals Who Was Horrible Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'China No Longer Trusts Us': Maulana Fazlur Rehman Slams Pakistans Foreign Policy Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 10:02 IST Fazlur Rehman also questioned Pakistans strategic thinking over the past 78 years, particularly its handling of Afghanistan. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman. (Image: X/naofpakistan) Pakistan has lost every friend it once had," including Afghanistan and China, due to decades of flawed foreign policy and internal contradictions, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said, launching a scathing attack on the Shehbaz Sharif-led government and the countrys security establishment. Speaking at an event, Fazlur Rehman questioned Pakistans strategic thinking over the past 78 years, particularly its handling of Afghanistan. In all these decades, we never paused to ask why our Afghan policy failed so miserably," he said, pointing to a paradoxical situation where trade from Afghanistan is virtually frozen while militant infiltration continues unchecked. Not a single pomegranate or melon can enter Pakistan, yet terrorists keep crossing the border," he remarked. The JUI-F chief accused Pakistans military leadership of indecision, saying conflicting approaches within the army have crippled foreign policy. One general talks about negotiations and peace, while another insists on war. With such confusion, how can a country run a coherent foreign policy," he asked. Fazlur Rehman also delivered a sharp critique of the governments handling of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), once touted as a game-changer for Pakistans economy. He said the Shehbaz Sharif government has failed to revive Chinese confidence or secure fresh investments. CPEC has seen no real progress during this tenure because China no longer trusts us," he said. Recalling earlier phases of the project, Fazlur Rehman noted that both Islamabad and Beijing had complaints when CPEC slowed during the Imran Khan government. However, he questioned whether the current administration had done any better. Today I ask has even a single brick moved forward under this government," he said. According to Fazlur Rehman, China had hoped the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government would stabilise relations and improve project execution. Instead, today China is displeased with Pakistan," he claimed, warning that diplomatic goodwill is rapidly eroding. The JUI-F leader said the countrys foreign policy has reached a point of failure where India is our enemy, Afghanistan is our enemy, and even Iran and China are upset with us." The people of Pakistan deserve answers," Fazlur Rehman said, because a nation cannot survive when its policies produce only isolation, mistrust and insecurity." News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 10:02 IST News world 'China No Longer Trusts Us': Maulana Fazlur Rehman Slams Pakistans Foreign Policy Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Epstein Accomplice Maxwell Seeks President Trump's Clemency Curated By : AFP Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 23:43 IST Ghislaine Maxwell refused to testify before the House Oversight Committee, invoking the Fifth, but offered to speak if granted clemency by Trump about her ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Ghislaine Maxwell with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Jeffrey Epsteins accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell refused on Monday to answer questions from a congressional panel but said she was prepared to speak if granted clemency by President Donald Trump. Maxwell, 64, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking, was subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee to discuss her relations with Epstein. Rather than answer the committees questions, however, the former British socialite invoked her Fifth Amendment right to not incriminate herself. As expected, Ghislaine Maxwell took the Fifth and refused to answer any questions," committee chairman James Comer told reporters. This is obviously very disappointing." We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed as well as questions about potential co-conspirators," he said. Maxwells attorney, David Markus, said she would be prepared to speak publicly if granted clemency by Trump. If this Committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path," Markus said in a statement. Ms Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump." Markus also said that Trump and former president Bill Clinton both of whom were once friendly with Epstein are innocent of any wrongdoing." Ms Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation," he said. Maxwell is the only person convicted of a crime in connection with Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 of supplying underage girls to Epstein, who had ties to powerful business executives, politicians, celebrities and academics, and had been subpoenaed to testify virtually from the Texas prison where she is serving her sentence. Her deposition comes amid the recent release by the Justice Department of millions of documents, photographs and videos related to the investigation into Epstein. The Justice Department has said no new prosecutions are expected but a number of political and business leaders have been tarnished by scandal or resigned after their ties with Epstein were revealed in the files. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: February 09, 2026, 23:42 IST News world Epstein Accomplice Maxwell Seeks President Trump's Clemency Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Have You Pressurised Police? King Charles Heckled Over Prince Andrews Epstein Links | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 23:36 IST King Charles faced heckling in Lancashire over Prince Andrews ties to Jeffrey Epstein, amid renewed scrutiny from US Department of Justice. King Charles (AP Photo/Jon Super, Pool) Britains King Charles III was heckled again on Monday over the controversy surrounding his brother Prince Andrew and his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as the royal family continues to face scrutiny following fresh disclosures in the Epstein case. The latest incident took place during a royal visit to Lancashire, when Charles met members of the public at Clitheroe railway station. As the King greeted well-wishers, a man shouted, How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein?" The question was met with boos from much of the crowd, while Charles appeared not to respond and continued shaking hands. The royalist cult booed a man who asked King Charles about how long hes known about Andrew and Epstein. pic.twitter.com/gftLDISX1x Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) February 9, 2026 The heckling followed a similar episode last Thursday in Dedham, Essex, where Charles and Queen Camilla were interrupted during a walkabout. On that occasion, a member of the public shouted: Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew?" The renewed protests come after the release of a fresh tranche of Epstein-related files by the US Department of Justice last month. The documents have reignited allegations concerning Prince Andrews relationship with Epstein, including claims that a woman was sent to the UK for a sexual encounter with the former duke, and that Andrew and Epstein allegedly sought a threesome with an exotic dancer at Epsteins Florida residence. Another file reportedly includes a photograph appearing to show Andrew on the floor with a woman. Andrew has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Further claims in the documents allege that Andrew shared confidential reports from official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore during his time as the UKs trade envoy. These allegations have added to pressure on the royal family and political establishment. On Monday, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, spoke publicly for the first time on the issue, saying they were deeply concerned" and that their thoughts were with the victims. Last week, Prince Edward also stressed the importance of remembering victims when commenting on the case. Charles and Queen Camilla have not addressed Andrew directly since last years release of files, when they expressed their thoughts and utmost sympathies" for the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse". That statement coincided with an announcement stripping Andrew of his remaining honorary titles. The Epstein disclosures have also had political fallout. The release of millions of related documents has prompted police to open an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. On Sunday, Morgan McSweeney, chief of staff to Keir Starmer, resigned over his role in Mandelsons appointment as UK ambassador to the US, adding to pressure on the government as ministers await further disclosures. Despite the disruptions, Charles continued his engagement in Clitheroe, waving to the crowd before leaving by car, as debate over Prince Andrew and the Epstein scandal shows no sign of easing. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: February 09, 2026, 23:36 IST News world Have You Pressurised Police? King Charles Heckled Over Prince Andrews Epstein Links | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'In Less Than 10 Years': Elon Musk Says SpaceX Focused On Building Self-Growing City On Moon Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 07:17 IST Elon Musk announced SpaceX is prioritizing a self-growing city on the Moon within 10 years, targeting a 2027 uncrewed landing. Billionaire CEO Elon Musk says SpaceX focused on building self-growing city on the Moon SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Sunday announced that his firm has shifted its focus to building a self-growing city" on the moon. For those unaware, SpaceX has already shifted focus to building a self-growing city on the Moon, as we can potentially achieve that in less than 10 years, whereas Mars would take 20+ years. The mission of SpaceX remains the same: extend consciousness and life as we know it to the stars", Musk wrote in a post on X. The billionaire CEO added that SpaceX will also attempt to build a Mars city, which he said will commence in about 5 to 7 years. For those unaware, SpaceX has already shifted focus to building a self-growing city on the Moon, as we can potentially achieve that in less than 10 years, whereas Mars would take 20+ years.The mission of SpaceX remains the same: extend consciousness and life as we know it to Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 8, 2026 That said, SpaceX will also strive to build a Mars city and begin doing so in about 5 to 7 years, but the overriding priority is securing the future of civilization and the Moon is faster," Musk added. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, SpaceX has told investors it would prioritise going to the moon first and attempt a trip to Mars at a later time. The report said the company was targeting March 2027 for an uncrewed landing on the Moon. US Faces Competition From China The comments come as the United States faces a fierce competition from China in its attempt to return astronauts to the Moon. No human has walked on the surface of the Moon since the last US Apollo mission back in 1972. In the recent years, both the US and China have intensified their lunar programmes, placing the Moon as a gateway to future space dominance. Interestingly, the tech billionaire has long advocated the concept of making humanity a multi-planetary species", with Mars being touted as the primary destination. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: February 09, 2026, 07:11 IST News world 'In Less Than 10 Years': Elon Musk Says SpaceX Focused On Building Self-Growing City On Moon Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Will Work for Peace In Indian Ocean: PM Modi After Call With Mauritius Leader Navin Ramgoolam Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 21:09 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam pledged to strengthen cooperation for peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region during a phone call. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam during the latter's visit to Varanasi in 2025. (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he received a call from his Mauritius counterpart Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam during which both vowed to continue to work to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. In a post on X, PM Modi said: Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year." Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year. Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2026 Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite our two nations. India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. I look forward to welcoming him to India for the AI Impact Summit next week," he added. During Mauritius PMs visit to India last year in September, both leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in infrastructure, healthcare, digital technology, energy, maritime security and more. During the meeting, MoUs (Memorandum of Understanding) were signed between India and Mauritius. In March last year, PM Modi presented Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to his Mauritian counterpart Navin Ramgoolam and his spouse Veena Ramgoolam. During President Droupadi Murmus state visit to Mauritius in March 2024, India extended eligibility for OCI cards to Mauritian nationals of Indian lineage traceable up to the seventh generation an initiative aimed at fostering closer ties with the Indian diaspora. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 20:43 IST News world Will Work for Peace In Indian Ocean: PM Modi After Call With Mauritius Leader Navin Ramgoolam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Praise For India, China Hawk: What Japan PM Sanae Takaichis Landslide Win Means For New Delhi Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 14:26 IST Japan PM Sanae Takaichi has, in the past, praised India as a democratic, technological and manufacturing partner Rapid Read Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi on X. (PMO via PTI File from G20 summit) Japans ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sundays general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in post-war Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to Japanese PM Takaichi following her ruling coalitions projected historic victory in snap elections for Japans lower house, emphasising that India-Japan ties remain vital for advancing global peace, stability, and shared prosperity through their robust Special Strategic and Global Partnership. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: Congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives! Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing global peace, stability and prosperity. I am confident that under your able leadership, we will continue to take the India-Japan friendship to greater heights." Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives!Our Special Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in enhancing Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 8, 2026 India-Japan relations India and Japan have shared interests in a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific, cooperation in Quad (with the US and Australia), and diversification of supply chains and technology partnerships. Following former PM Shinzo Abes Indo-Pacific policy, Takaichi may continue and deepen Japans strategic engagement with India. She has, in the past, praised India as a democratic, technological and manufacturing partner. In her first address to the Japanese Parliament on October 24, 2025, Takaichi identified India as a critical partner for regional stability. In order to promote the main pillar of Tokyos diplomacy, a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, India is a crucial partner," she said. During her first formal conversation with PM Modi on October 29, 2025, she emphasised the depth of the bilateral relationship. She expressed her intention to work with PM Modi to open a new golden chapter in the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership." She noted that because both countries share fundamental values and strategic interests," Japan intends to further advance cooperation in security and the economy. At a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit on November 23, 2025, she reaffirmed her dedication to the partnership and also expressed a desire to work together to make Japan-India relations more robust and prosperous". Following her win, Japan is expected to remain an active partner with India on defence dialogues, infrastructure investment, and technology cooperation especially in areas like cybersecurity and critical supply chains. Increasing Japan-India collaboration aligns with Japans vision of coalition building among democratic nations to manage regional security risks a policy space India is also actively engaging. Takaichi is considered a China hawk Takaichi is widely described as a China hawk". She has been highly critical of Beijing and is seen as favoring a tougher regional posture toward Chinese influence and military activity. She has criticised Chinese economic practices such as alleged intellectual property theft and argued for reducing Japans economic dependence on China. Takaichi supports a stronger Japanese security posture in East Asia, including increased defence spending, a more assertive stance on Taiwan (echoing that a Taiwan crisis would be a Japan emergency"), and bolstered intelligence and anti-espionage frameworks. Her governments rhetoric on China, especially over Taiwan and territorial disputes, has strained diplomatic ties since the election. Chinese media and officials have expressed concern about her election and the potential for heightened tensions or diplomatic friction, especially if Japan pursues stronger security cooperation with the U.S. and allies. What India can look forward to Stronger strategic partnership: Takaichi is likely to continue active cooperation with India in regional security dialogues, including the Quad and shared defence exercises. Expect more political, technological, and economic collaboration aimed at balancing Chinas influence. Expanded defence and security cooperation: Japan may push deeper defence ties with India, including intelligence sharing, logistics cooperation, and possibly more coordinated approaches toward maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Economic cooperation and supply-chain resilience: Japan has an interest in reducing economic over-dependence on China this aligns with Indian priorities and may encourage joint ventures, especially in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and clean energy. Quadrilateral and regional forums: India can expect active Japanese engagement in Quad initiatives and broader region-wide frameworks for infrastructure, security, and development cooperation. With Agency Inputs News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 11:51 IST News world Praise For India, China Hawk: What Japan PM Sanae Takaichis Landslide Win Means For New Delhi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Hong Kong Tycoon Jimmy Lai Jailed For 20 Years In National Security Trial Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 10:39 IST Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong media tycoon and Beijing critic, was sentenced to 20 years under the national security law, symbolising a crackdown on press freedoms after the 2019 protests. Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai (File photo/AP) Hong Kong media tycoon and outspoken Beijing critic Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in jail, the harshest punishment yet imposed under the citys sweeping national security law. The ruling marks a dramatic moment in the downfall of the 78-year-old self-made businessman, once among the wealthiest figures in the Asian financial hub. Observers cited by the Associated Press said the case has come to symbolise a crackdown on press freedoms and political dissent that began after Beijing imposed the law following the huge pro-democracy protests of 2019. Authorities in Hong Kong and in Beijing have defended the legislation, saying it restored stability after months of unrest and insisting Lai received a fair trial. Judges ruled that his sentence was increased because they viewed him as the mastermind" behind alleged conspiracies to collude with foreign forces. Lai, who has been held in custody for more than five years, much of it in solitary confinement, had earlier told Reuters that he would fight on till the last day." His family later said his health had declined significantly behind bars. His daughter Claire told Reuters that while he remained mentally resilient, he was physically weaker and suffering from ailments including diabetes, heart palpitations and rising blood pressure. WHO IS JIMMY LAI Once known for his stocky build and combative style, Lai made his fortune in the garment business after fleeing mainland China as a penniless teenager. Born in Guangzhou, he stowed away on a fishing boat to Hong Kong in 1961 before working in factories and eventually founding the clothing chain Giordano. Following the 1989 military crackdown around Tiananmen Square by the Peoples Liberation Army, Lai became increasingly outspoken and turned toward publishing. He launched Next Magazine in 1990 and later founded the tabloid Apple Daily, which mixed sensational reporting with aggressive investigations and criticism of Chinese and Hong Kong leaders. Lais columns attacked senior officials such as former premier Li Peng and current leader Xi Jinping, language that later resurfaced during his trial. Lai also participated in the 2014 Umbrella Movement and the 2019 protest wave, and met US officials, including Mike Pence and Mike Pompeo, contacts prosecutors highlighted as evidence in court. During proceedings, Lai repeatedly referred to himself as a political prisoner," prompting one judge to rebuke him for framing the case in political terms. Lai responded that he had the right to disagree, while describing any personal sacrifice as an honour. Once ranked by Forbes among Hong Kongs richest people, Lai later saw his assets frozen and his media empire shuttered. A devout Catholic, he received visits from cleric Joseph Zen while in detention. In October, his wife Teresa and one daughter were photographed meeting Pope Leo in Vatican City as worries grew about his condition. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 10:39 IST News world Hong Kong Tycoon Jimmy Lai Jailed For 20 Years In National Security Trial Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Just 72 Hours Before Bangladesh Polls, BNP-Jamaat Clashes Leave 40 Injured Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 10:33 IST The incident comes days before polling on February 12 and hours before campaigning ends on February 10 at 7.30 am. Election Fever Turns Violent as BNP, Jamaat Supporters Clash (Representative Image: Reuters) With just three days left before Bangladesh votes in a high-stakes general election, fresh violence has broken out, highlighting tensions in the campaign. More than 40 people, including women, were injured late last night in clashes between workers of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami. The incident comes days before polling on February 12 and hours before campaigning ends on February 10 at 7.30 am. What triggered the violence The violence began after BNP workers accused Jamaat-e-Islami of distributing cash at a late-night programme. BNP activists went to the venue to protest, after which Jamaat mobilised its own supporters. A fierce confrontation followed and continued into the night, leaving over 40 injured. This is being described as the most violent episode of the ongoing campaign between the two rival camps. Over the past six weeks, more than five people have been injured in election-related incidents across Bangladesh, signalling a steady rise in tensions as polling day nears. Much-awaited Bangladesh poll The February 12 general election is widely seen as a direct contest between the BNP and a Jamaat-e-Islami-led coalition. More than 127 million voters are eligible to vote in what analysts call the most consequential election since 2009. The vote follows the August 2024 mass uprising that ended Sheikh Hasinas 15-year rule and led to the banning of the Awami League from contesting. Many voters say this will be the first genuinely competitive election in over a decade. BNP chief Tarique Rahman told Reuters his party, contesting 292 of the 300 seats, is confident of winning enough to form a government. Interim governments assurance Interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus described the election and the referendum on reforms as a grand festival", promising the most free, fair and peaceful vote in the countrys history and a foundation for a new Bangladesh". However, analysts warn that continued violence could weaken public confidence in the process. The poll outcome is expected to influence Bangladeshs economic recovery after months of unrest that disrupted key sectors such as garments and pushed the country to seek external funding from the IMF and World Bank. It may also affect regional geopolitics. Chinas influence has grown since Hasina, seen as close to India, fled to New Delhi. Some view the BNP as relatively closer to India, while a Jamaat-led government could tilt towards Pakistan. Jamaat has said it is not inclined towards any country. Parvez Karim Abbasi of Dhakas Centre for Governance Studies said opinion polls show the BNP with an edge, but many voters remain undecided. How Generation Z votes will carry considerable weight," he said. Voters hope to reclaim voice amid violence For many first-time voters, the election offers a chance to regain political space. People couldnt even vote during national elections. People had no voice," Mohammad Rakib, 21, told Reuters. I hope the next government, whoever comes into power, will ensure this freedom of expression." Bangladeshs 13th parliamentary polls will be held on February 12, 2026. Campaigning began on January 22. Results are expected on February 13. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Bangladesh First Published: February 09, 2026, 10:07 IST News world Just 72 Hours Before Bangladesh Polls, BNP-Jamaat Clashes Leave 40 Injured Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... The Leapmotor C10 REEV (Range Extender Electric Vehicle) drew significant attention in early 2025, following its unveiling at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show. As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity, concerns surrounding range limitations and charging infrastructure remain a barrier for many potential buyers. Leapmotor aims to tackle these issues head-on with the C10 REEV, a vehicle that combines the benefits of electric propulsion with a gasoline-powered generator for extended range. In March 2025, international journalists had the opportunity to test drive the C10 REEV along the picturesque Mediterranean coast of Spain. The test drives provided valuable insights into how this vehicle performs in real-world conditions, particularly in terms of driving experience, efficiency, and practicality. As Leapmotor expands its reach beyond China into global markets, the C10 REEV stands as a testament to the companys ambition to redefine the extended-range EV category. A Balance of Efficiency and Practicality Image Credit: Stellantis. One of the most impressive features of the C10 REEV is its claimed WLTP combined range of up to 970 km (602 miles). Unlike traditional hybrids, its wheels are always powered by electricity, while a gasoline engine steps in to generate power when needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This setup helps ease range anxiety, a major concern for EV drivers. With this system, drivers dont have to worry as much about finding charging stations. High-Tech Features for a Smooth Ride Image Credit: Stellantis. The C10 REEV is built for comfort and efficiency. It has a range extender engine paired with a generator system that is claimed to reach 96.5% efficiency. Special design features reduce vibrations and noise, making for a quiet ride. Details like diamond-like carbon-coated piston rings help keep the drive smooth. Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning Image Credit: Stellantis. With a starting price announced in Belgium at about $44,125, the C10 REEV is an affordable option compared to luxury EVs. Leapmotor is using range-extender technology to stand out in the market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This makes it an attractive choice for areas where charging stations are still being developed. Its a smart way to help more people switch to electric vehicles. What This Means for the Future of EVs Image Credit: Stellantis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Leapmotor C10 REEV offers a solution for people who arent ready for a fully electric car. It provides a mix of electric and gas power, making long trips easier. As this technology improves, more car companies may adopt similar designs. This could help speed up the shift toward electric vehicles. The Driving Experience Image Credit: Stellantis. Journalists at the media test praised the C10 REEV for its smooth ride. They liked how easily it switched between electric and gasoline power. Leapmotor may be a newer brand, but this model shows theyre serious about making practical, innovative EVs. With an impressive combination of technology, affordability, and efficiency, the Leapmotor C10 REEV is not just another hybrid or electric vehicle: it represents a potential shift in the way we think about sustainable transportation. Could this be the solution for drivers hesitant to go fully electric? Khamenei Skips Annual Air Force Meet For First Time In 37 Years Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 13:36 IST For decades, Khamenei has overseen Irans response to multiple regional confrontations and proxy wars, consolidating his authority as the countrys ultimate decision-maker. The development comes against the backdrop of recent nuclear talks between Iran and the United States in Oman. (Reuters Image) Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has, for the first time in 37 years, skipped the annual February 8 meeting with air force commanders, a long-standing ritual he has observed every year since assuming power in 1989. The absence comes at a sensitive moment as tensions between Iran and the United States escalate, fuelling speculation over Tehrans next moves amid fears of a possible US military strike. The annual gathering is a symbolic display of loyalty to the Islamic Republic and has been a fixture on Irans military calendar for nearly four decades. This year, however, Khamenei did not attend. Instead, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Abdolrahim Mousavi met senior air force officers on his behalf. Khameneis decision to stay away has drawn attention given the broader geopolitical context. The Iranian leader has repeatedly warned that any US attack would trigger a wider regional conflict, saying such a move would spill over across the entire region." Also Read: He Should Be Worried: Trump Warns Khamenei As US-Iran Nuclear Talks Revived At The Last Minute For decades, Khamenei has overseen Irans response to multiple regional confrontations and proxy wars, consolidating his authority as the countrys ultimate decision-maker. His absence from a ceremonial yet politically significant event has therefore sparked debate among observers. Analysts say the move could signal a calculated shift, suggesting Irans leadership may be prioritising strategic restraint over symbolic shows of strength. It may also point to internal deliberations within Irans power structure on how to manage pressure from Washington, balancing diplomatic engagement with military deterrence. The development comes against the backdrop of recent nuclear talks between Iran and the United States in Oman, which Iranian officials described as a good start" despite deep differences over Tehrans missile programme and regional policies. Iran has, however, reiterated that it will continue nuclear enrichment and that no external power can prevent it from doing so. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:36 IST News world Khamenei Skips Annual Air Force Meet For First Time In 37 Years Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Israeli President Herzog's Australia Visit Sparks Protests Over Gaza War Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:33 IST Protests erupted across Australia during Isaac Herzog's visit, as he honored Bondi Beach massacre victims. Pro-Palestine groups accused him of complicity in Gaza civilian deaths. Israeli President Isaac Herzog pays tribute to victims of Bondi Beach shooting incident, on Monday. (Herzog/X) Protests were held across Australia on Monday against Israeli President Isaac Herzogs visit, who is on a multi-city trip to express solidarity with the countrys Jewish community following the deadly mass shooting last year. Herzog is visiting Australia following an invitation from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after the December 14 shooting at a Hanukkah event at Sydneys Bondi Beach, killing 15 people. Israeli Presidents visit this week has sparked ire among some people in Australia, who accuse him of being complicit in civilian deaths in Gaza. Several pro-Palestine groups staged protests across the country on Monday. According to Reuters, thousands of people gathered in a square in Sydneys central business district, listening to speeches and shouting pro-Palestine slogans. 15 In memory of the 15 victims of the Bondi Beach Massacre pic.twitter.com/bttz6vBdDP Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) February 9, 2026 The Bondi massacre was terrible but from our Australian leadership theres been no acknowledgment of the Palestinian people and the Gazans," said Jackson Elliott, a 30-year-old protestor from Sydney. Herzog has dodged all the questions about the occupation and says this visit is about Australia and Israeli relations but he is complicit." Also Read: Australia Toughens Hate Crime, Gun Laws After 15 Killed In Bondi Beach Attack According to AFP, police deployed pepper spray and scuffled with protesters and members of the media, including AFP, with pepper spray as a pro-Palestinian rally attempted to leave a designated area. Several protesters were also arrested. Meanwhile, members of Jewish community along with government officials and opposition party leaders welcomed Herzog at the event honouring Bondi attack victims. We all remember the boycotts, the threats, the colleagues who turned their backs on their Jewish friends that was the prelude to Bondi," the Israeli President told a large crowd at Sydneys International Convention Centre, according to an ABC News report. Here at Bondi Beach in Sydney, the scene of the horrific antisemitic terror attack at a Chanukah celebration in December, I begin my official visit to Australia at the invitation of Governor-General Sam Mostyn, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and the Australian Jewish community. pic.twitter.com/if3X6VnZAo Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) February 9, 2026 Earlier in the day, he visited Bondi Beach to lay a wreath at a memorial for the victims of the attack. He also met survivors and the families of 15 people killed in the shooting. This was also an attack on all Australians. They attacked the values that our democracies treasure, the sanctity of human life, the freedom of religion, tolerance, dignity and respect," Herzog said in remarks at the site. A Pakistani-origin father and son, Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, allegedly attacked a Jewish Hanukkah celebration. At the Bondi Beach, an icon of Australias cultural life, people had gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event to celebrate the start of the eight-day Hanukkah, also spelt Chanukah, festival. The shooting sparked anger over the failure to shield Jewish Australians from harm. Last month, both houses of Australias Parliament passed tougher hate crime and gun laws in the wake of the attack. The terrorists had hate in their hearts, but they also had high-powered rifles in their hands," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the lower house of parliament. Were taking action on both tackling antisemitism, tackling hate, and getting dangerous guns off our streets." News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Sydney, Australia First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:42 IST News world Israeli President Herzog's Australia Visit Sparks Protests Over Gaza War Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... New Jeffrey Epstein Files Spark Wave Of Resignations, Investigations In Europe Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:37 IST UK PM Keir Starmer loses Tim Allan and Morgan McSweeney amid Epstein links. Norway ambassador Mona Juul resigns over ties to Epstein, sparking government reviews and inquiries. Earlier this week, Mona Juul was suspended from the post of ambassador to Jordon and Iraq pending an internal inquiry of links to Epstein found in a files released by the United States government. (AP File) A day after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmers chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned over Jeffrey Epstein links, British director of communications Tim Allan and Norway ambassador Mona Juul have stepped down. I have decided to stand down to allow a new No10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success," Allan said in a statement on Monday. Also Read: Did Epstein Die A Day Before He Was Officially Pronounced Dead? New DOJ Files Raise Questions He served as an adviser to Tony Blair from 1992 to 1998 and found and lead one of the countrys foremost public affairs consultancies in 2001. In September 2025, he was appointed executive director of communications at Downing Street. According to Reuters, the loss of two top aides Tim Allan and Morgan McSweeney in quick succession comes as Starmer tries to draw a line under the crisis in his government resulting from his appointment of Mandelson as ambassador to the US. Norwegian Envoy Resigns Norways foreign ministry has announced that its ambassador Mona Juul would step down due to a serious failure of judgement" over ties to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this week, the ministry had suspended her from the post of ambassador to Jordon and Iraq pending an internal inquiry of links to Epstein found in a files released by the United States government. She had previously served as ambassador to Israel, Britain and at the United Nations. Also Read: Paris Good For Adultery: Emails Reveal Norways Crown Princess Ties To Epstein Juuls contact with convicted sex offender Epstein has shown a serious failure of judgment. The case makes it difficult to rebuild the trust that the role requires," Norways Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in a statement. Reuters quoted Juuls lawyer Thomas Skjelbred saying in a statement, Mona Juul will continue to cooperate fully with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to help ensure that all relevant facts in the matter come to light." The ministry has also said that a review has been initiated on its former grants to the International Peace Institute (IPI), a New York think tank headed by Juuls husband Terje Roed-Larsen until 2020. Also Read: Deeply Concerned: William, Kate Break Silence Over New Epstein Claims Tied To Andrew Jeffrey Epstein, who died of suicide in 2019 in Manhattan jail while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. So far, names of several leaders, including Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, younger brother of King Charles, have been revealed. In October last year, King Charles stripped Andrew of his title of prince. The latest files revealed correspondence between Norways crown princess, Mette-Marit, 52, and Epstein after he was found guilty in 2008 of soliciting prostitution from an underage girl. According to Reuters, her name appears hundreds of times and, in 2012, she called Epstein sweetheart," soft hearted" and very charming". News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : United Kingdom (UK) First Published: February 09, 2026, 17:37 IST News world New Jeffrey Epstein Files Spark Wave Of Resignations, Investigations In Europe Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... South Korean Mayor Apologises After 'Import Women' Remark To Boost Birth Rate Sparks Outrage Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 16:26 IST The comments were made last week by Kim Hee-soo, mayor of Jindo County, during a town hall meeting. People walk through a train station in Seoul. (AFP file photo) A provincial government in South Korea has issued an apology after a local mayor suggested bringing in young women from Southeast Asia to help raise the countrys low birth rate. The comments were made last week by Kim Hee-soo, mayor of Jindo County, during a town hall meeting. Speaking about population decline in rural areas, Kim said small villages could survive by matching unmarried men with women from countries such as Vietnam or Sri Lanka. We should import young women from Vietnam or Sri Lanka so that young men in rural areas can marry them," he said, using language that quickly drew strong criticism. The remarks were widely condemned in South Korean media and on social platforms, with many accusing the mayor of treating women as commodities. The comments also caused a diplomatic reaction, with reports saying the Vietnamese embassy in Seoul lodged a formal complaint. Over the weekend, the South Jeolla provincial government, which oversees Jindo County, moved to contain the backlash. In a public statement, a spokesperson said the province deeply apologise for the inappropriate remark made by the Jindo mayor, which has caused deep pain to Vietnamese people and to women". The spokesperson said the use of the word import" violated human dignity and objectified women, adding that such language could never be justified under any circumstances". Kim himself later issued an apology, admitting he had used an inappropriate word". He said his intention was not to insult women or foreign nationals, but to raise the issue of labour shortages and marriage migration in ageing rural and fishing communities. Amid the severe labour shortages facing rural and fishing communities, the intention was to discuss institutional measures for supporting marriage migration," he said. South Korea is facing a deep demographic crisis. It has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, as many young people delay or avoid marriage and parenthood due to high living costs and job insecurity. The government has spent billions of dollars on policies to encourage childbirth and support families, but with limited success. Some population projections suggest that, if current trends continue, South Koreas population could fall to about 26.8 million by the end of the century, nearly half its current size. ALSO READ: Why Are Global Birth Rates Falling So Fast? UN Report Reveals Alarming Answers (With inputs from agencies) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : South Korea First Published: February 09, 2026, 16:26 IST News world South Korean Mayor Apologises After 'Import Women' Remark To Boost Birth Rate Sparks Outrage Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... The Love Triangle That Ended NASA Astronaut Lisa Nowak's Career And Landed Her In Jail Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 13:42 IST NASA astronaut Lisa Nowak shocked the world in 2007 when she went to confront US Air Force captain Colleen Shipman for her relationship with Nowak's close friend William Oefelein Rapid Read Lisa Nowak was initially charged with attempted kidnapping, but prosecutors later added a more serious charge of attempted first-degree murder. (News18 Hindi) At the beginning of 2007, the arrest of NASA astronaut Lisa Nowak stunned both the public and the scientific community. Only months earlier, she had returned from space after playing a significant role in supporting NASAs space shuttle programme during a sensitive period of recovery following a major accident. Known as a disciplined and dependable officer, Nowaks reputation had been built on years of hard work and service. Suddenly, however, her name shifted from mission briefings to police reports, in a case that seemed stranger than fiction. A captain in the United States Navy and a highly trained astronaut, Nowak had travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a space shuttle in July 2006. By February 2007, she was at the centre of a dramatic investigation after police said she drove nearly 1,500 kilometres non-stop from Houston to Orlando. Reports at the time claimed she used diapers during the journey to avoid stopping, a detail that quickly made international headlines and left many in disbelief. According to reports, the purpose of the long drive was to confront Colleen Shipman, a US Air Force captain who Nowak thought was romantically involved with fellow astronaut William Oefelein, with whom Nowak had a close bond. Though the exact nature of the relationship between the two remains unclear, Nowak reportedly described her bond with Oefelein as more than work, but less than romantic". Police affidavits stated that in 2007, Nowak went to meet Shipman and waited for her at Orlando International Airport. Media reports said she allegedly wore a wig and trench coat during the encounter. The confrontation took place near Shipmans car, where Nowak is said to have used pepper spray. Shipman managed to escape and sought help at a parking booth. No serious injuries were reported. Soon after, police located Nowaks car at a nearby motel. Initially, Nowak was charged with attempted kidnapping, but prosecutors later added a more serious charge of attempted first-degree murder. Investigators cited several items found in her possession, including pepper spray, a BB gun, a knife, a hammer, a rubber tube and a large trash bag. Authorities argued that these items suggested a planned attack rather than a simple confrontation, and police documents stated that Shipmans life had been in danger. Nowaks lawyer denied the allegations, arguing that the evidence did not support the charge of attempted murder. The defence maintained that she had only intended to talk and that the police had built a dramatic narrative based on assumptions. NASA placed Nowak on 30-day leave and removed her from mission duty. The agency refrained from public speculation, issuing only a statement expressing concern for the safety and well-being of those involved. Experts later noted that the demanding and high-pressure environment at NASA, where personnel often spend long periods away from family, can intensify emotional strain, particularly when personal and professional lives intersect. The case concluded in 2009 through a plea agreement and never went to a full trial. Nowak admitted to some charges, including minor assault and unlawful entry into a vehicle. She was not sentenced to jail but received probation. In court, she expressed deep regret for her actions and apologised, saying she was truly sorry" and promising never to contact the two again. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: February 09, 2026, 13:42 IST News world The Love Triangle That Ended NASA Astronaut Lisa Nowak's Career And Landed Her In Jail Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Putin Named 1,005 Times In Epstein Files, But Jeffrey Spent Years Trying To Tap Into Russian Govt Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 17:55 IST While the Kremlin laughed off any "intelligence" connection with Jeffrey Epstein a few days ago, the documents reignited intense scrutiny on his alleged ties to Moscow The release of some 3.5 million pages of correspondence linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein (L) casts new light on his international ambitions, as among these documents Russian President Vladimir Putin's (R) name appears a staggering 1,005 times. (Image: AFP/File) The Epstein Files have revealed that late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was obsessed with establishing contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The release of some 3.5 million pages of correspondence linked to Epstein casts new light on his international ambitions, as among these documents Putins name appears a staggering 1,005 times. While the Kremlin laughed off any intelligence" connection with Epstein a few days ago, the documents reveal that he spent years trying to tap into the highest echelons of the Russian government. This has reignited intense scrutiny on his alleged ties to Moscow. Many analysts have also dismissed this as mere social climbing, but the files depict Epstein as someone who positioned himself as a sophisticated geopolitical intermediary. He sought to act as a bridge between the West and the Kremlin, offering to explain the nuances of American political dynamics specifically the rise of Donald Trump while promising to facilitate the flow of western investment into the Russian Federation. ALSO READ | Really Time To Move On: Trump Responds To Fresh Questions On Epstein File Release WAS EPSTEIN DESPERATE FOR A MEETING WITH PUTIN? The documents, released by the US Department of Justice, give details on Epsteins frequent and persistent attempts to coordinate a personal meeting with Putin. According to a report by CNN, as early as May 2013, Epstein was using his high-level European contacts to lobby for an audience. He wrote to former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak, claiming that Thorbjrn Jagland, then the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, was scheduled to see Putin in Sochi and had asked if he could meet him to explain how Russia can structure deals in order to encourage Western investment". CNN reported that in an email to Jagland, he said if Putin were to meet him, it must be for a minimum of two to three hours, not shorter". He told him to bolster his credentials by telling the Russian President that they were close" and that he advised Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. Despite these claims and further attempts to schedule meetings in 2014 and 2018, the records provide no definitive proof that a face-to-face meeting between Epstein and Putin ever took place. ALSO READ | Epstein Offered Trustworthy Russian Friend To Former Prince Andrew: What DoJ Email Dump Reveals WAS EPSTEIN IN TOUCH WITH OTHER RUSSIAN OFFICIALS? While a meeting with Putin remained elusive, Epstein maintained a regular line of communication with other senior Russian figures. The CNN report said his primary contact for years was Vitaly Churkin, Russias long-serving ambassador to the United Nations. The files show the two frequently met in New York, with Epstein even offering to secure a position at a Manhattan wealth management firm for Churkins son, Maxim. The report said following Churkins sudden death in 2017, Epstein shifted his focus to Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. In a June 2018 email to Jagland, he wrote: I think you might suggest to Putin, that Lavrov, can get insight on talking to me. Vitaly Churkin used (to) but he died." Epsteins perceived value to the Kremlin was his supposed insight into the American presidency. Referring to his talks with the late ambassador, he was quoted: Churkin was great. He understood Trump after [our] conversations. It is not complex. He must be seen to get something, its that simple". WHAT ABOUT THE INTELLIGENCE ASSET CLAIMS? These communications have sparked an intense debate over Epsteins true motives. While some analysts suggest the documents indicate little more than him attempting to rub shoulders" with influential figures to enhance his own status, others see a more sinister pattern. Reports said Poland has officially launched an investigation into whether he served as a Russian intelligence asset. The Kremlin, however, swiftly dismissed these allegations. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov labelled the theory that Epstein was controlled by Russian intelligence as something that cannot be taken seriously", telling reporters not to waste their time". But Epsteins interest in Russia extended into the murky intersection of state security and high finance. He maintained a very good" friendship with Sergey Belyakov, a graduate of the FSB Academy and former head of the foundation responsible for the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. He even offered to introduce Belyakov to American venture capitalist Peter Thiel. The files highlight his relationship with Masha Drokova Bucher, a venture capitalist who gained notoriety in Russia as a member of the pro-Putin youth group Nashi. Bucher, who was once filmed kissing Putin on the cheek, served as a publicist for Epstein in 2017 and credited him with providing the ideas and knowledge" necessary to start her own investment fund. His fascination with Russia remained undiminished until his final days and, even as federal authorities closed in, he was inquiring about transferring his Russian visa to a new passport in March 2019, only months before his arrest for sex trafficking. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: February 09, 2026, 17:37 IST News world Putin Named 1,005 Times In Epstein Files, But Jeffrey Spent Years Trying To Tap Into Russian Govt Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Who Is Sanae Takaichi? Japans First Woman PM Secures Landslide Win In Winter Snap Polls Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 09, 2026, 07:32 IST US President Donald Trump congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi after her ruling coalition secured a decisive election victory. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. (AFP photo) Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi led her ruling coalition to a landslide win in a snap winter election on Sunday. Early vote tallies reported by NHK showed Takaichis Liberal Democratic Party winning 316 seats by Monday, well above the 261 needed for a majority in the 465-member lower house. The result is the partys best performance since its formation in 1955, beating the previous 300-seat record set in 1986. With 36 more seats secured by ally Japan Innovation Party, the ruling coalitions total reached 352 seats, paving the way for promised tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and military spending aimed at countering China. Takaichi is Japans first woman prime minister and the first woman to head the LDP. Trump congratulates US President Donald Trump congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi after her ruling coalition secured a decisive election victory. In a social media post, Trump wished her great success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda." He said it was my honor to endorse you," noting that he had publicly backed Takaichi on Friday. Calling her a highly respected and very popular leader," Trump added that her bold and wise decision to call for an election paid off big time." His message highlighted support for Takaichis leadership following her partys strong mandate in the snap polls. Drummer to Japan PM Takaichi, 64, was born in Nara prefecture in 1961. Her father was an office worker and her mother a police officer. She graduated from Kobe University. Her upbringing was more modest compared to many senior LDP leaders educated at elite institutions. Before politics, she briefly worked as a television host. In her youth, she played drums in a heavy metal band and was known for breaking drum sticks during performances. She remains a fan of bands such as Iron Maiden and Deep Purple and keeps an electric drum kit at home. She was also a scuba diver and a car enthusiast. Her Toyota Supra is displayed in a museum in Nara. Entry into politics Inspired during the 1980s by US-Japan trade tensions, Takaichi worked in the office of US Congresswoman Patricia Schroeder to understand American views of Japan. She concluded that Japan needed to better defend itself internationally. She first ran for parliament in 1992 as an independent and lost. She won a seat the following year and joined the LDP in 1996. Since then, she has been elected to parliament 10 times, losing only once. She has held several senior roles, including minister for economic security, state minister for trade and industry, and a long tenure as minister for internal affairs and communications. A protege of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi supports policies similar to Abenomics" fiscal expansion, monetary easing and structural reform. She is often called Japans Iron Lady", a reference to her admiration for Margaret Thatcher. She opposes same-sex marriage, takes a tougher stance on immigration, and believes imperial succession should favour men. She is also seen as a China hawk", supports a stronger military posture, and backs the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. She has visited Taipei and has made past visits to Yasukuni Shrine, which remains controversial. Takaichi entered the LDP leadership race in 2021 but lost to Fumio Kishida. She tried again in 2024, topping the first round before losing to Shigeru Ishiba. On her third attempt last year, she won and was confirmed by parliament as Japans first woman prime minister. Takaichis win signals continued conservative governance with a rightward shift. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location : Japan First Published: February 09, 2026, 07:32 IST News world Who Is Sanae Takaichi? Japans First Woman PM Secures Landslide Win In Winter Snap Polls Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Many consumers in Germany believe the country produces the world's most competitive electric vehicles, even as its auto industry faces mounting pressure, a survey showed. About 43% of respondents in Germany said domestic manufacturers lead in competitiveness, ahead of China at 23%, according to a survey by consulting firm Oliver Wyman. The poll, conducted online in November among just over 1,000 people in Germany, was described by the firm as representative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Simon Schnurrer, a partner at Oliver Wyman, said the findings pointed to an opportunity to preserve and potentially expand automotive value creation in Europe, adding that manufacturers needed to sharpen their focus on pricing and digital capabilities to turn existing trust in quality and safety into faster purchasing decisions. At the same time, the survey showed that 42% of respondents would consider buying an electric car from a Chinese brand instead of a German one, mainly due to lower prices. By contrast, 34% said they would not consider such a purchase, citing concerns over quality and safety standards. More than 545,000 battery-electric vehicles were newly registered in Germany in 2025, according to data from the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA). Chinese carmakers have so far played a limited role in the market, though companies such as BYD have recently posted strong growth rates. Los Angeles County just got a visitor it hasn't seen in more than 100 years: a wild gray wolf. State wildlife officials say a 3-year-old female, tagged BEY03F and wearing a GPS collar, crossed into the mountains north of Santa Clarita around 6am Saturday, the Los Angeles Times reports. Earlier that morning she was tracked moving through the Kern County desert, part of a journey that's taken her more than 370 miles from her birthplace in Plumas County, north of Lake Tahoe, and along the length of the Sierra Nevada. This is the furthest south in the state that any wolf has been tracked, CBS LA reports. Researchers say she's still on the move because she hasn't yet found a mate or a place to settle. "Her journey isn't over," says Axel Hunnicutt, gray wolf coordinator for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who noted that each additional mile increases her encounters with roads and other human infrastructure. Vehicle strikes are the leading known cause of wolf deaths in the state; a wolf known as OR-93 was killed on Interstate 5 in Kern County in 2021 after reaching San Luis Obispo County. California's native wolf population had been killed off by hunters and trappers by the 1920s, and the animals only began to return in 2011, when a wolf wandered in from Oregon. Today, biologists estimate at least 60 wolves live in the state, with their slow comeback aided by protections under the California Endangered Species Act and close monitoring by wildlife agencies. John Marchwick of the nonprofit California Wolf Watch called BEY03F's arrival in Los Angeles County "a historic moment" in that ongoing return. Whether she eventually forms the region's first new pack or turns back north, her collar will keep logging every step. Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in the longest punishment given so far under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the city's dissent, the AP reports. Lai, 78, was convicted in December of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security, and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. The maximum penalty for his conviction was life imprisonment. His co-defendants, six former employees of his Apple Daily newspaper and two activists, received prison terms of between 6 years and 3 months, and 10 years on collusion-related charges. Lai smiled and waved at his supporters when he arrived for the sentence. But before he left the courtroom, he looked serious, as some people in the public gallery cried. When asked about whether they would appeal, his lawyer Robert Pang said no comment. The democracy advocate's arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence. The government insists the case has nothing to do with a free press, saying the defendants used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed China and Hong Kong. Lai was one of the first prominent figures to be arrested under the security law in 2020. Within a year, some of Apple Daily's senior journalists also were arrested and the newspaper shut down in June 2021. The final edition sold a million copies. Lai's sentencing could heighten Beijing's diplomatic tensions with foreign governments. His conviction has drawn criticism from the US and the UK. US President Donald Trump, who is expected to visit China in April, said he felt "so badly" after the verdict and noted he spoke to Chinese leader Xi Jinping about Lai and "asked to consider his release." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government also has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. In a statement, Lai's son, Sebastien, said the "draconian" prison term was devastating for our family and life-threatening for his father. "It signifies the total destruction of the Hong Kong legal system and the end of justice," he said. His sister Claire called the sentence "heartbreakingly cruel" in the same statement. "If this sentence is carried out, he will die a martyr behind bars," she said. It seemed only fitting that Ilia Malinin was the first one to get his Olympic gold medal after the US successfully defended its team title by holding off the Japanese on Sunday night in the three-day competition at the Milan Cortina Games. After all, everything came down to him in the end. With the teams tied after seven of eight performances, Malinin calmly delivered for the Americans. The 21-year-old nicknamed the "Quad God" landed five quadruple jumps and scored 200.03 points for his free skate, atoning for a mediocre short programat least by his lofty standardsone night earlier. That was enough to beat Japanese sensation Shun Sato, who followed him to the ice, hit a trio of quads of his own, but could only manage 194.86 points in finishing second, the AP reports. The US finished with 69 points while Japan had 68, earning the silver medal for the second consecutive Olympics. "I was like, 'OK, I'm the deciding factor,'" Malinin said later, after the US got the medal ceremony it was denied at the Beijing Games, when Russian doping held up their awards for more than two years. "'I need to just, you know, do what I need to do.'" The US had a five-point lead over Japan after two days of competition. But the advantage dwindled to nothing when world champions Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara won the pairs free skate and Kaori Sakamoto won the women's free skate earlier Sunday night. Leave it to the best closer in the business to come through for the Americans. Malinin opened with a big quad flip, opted for a safer triple axel over his quad, and overcame a couple of mistakes along the way to finish with aplomb. The son of Olympic skaters Tatiana Malinina and Roman Skorniakov ended with back-to-back combos, a quad toe-triple flip and a quad salchow-triple axel, leaving a crowd full of American and Japanese fans roaring in approval. Meanwhile, Matteo Rizzo delivered one of the best free skates of his career as Italy was trying to hold onto the bronze medal, allowing the host nation to finish third with 60 points. Norway has lost a senior diplomat to the Jeffrey Epstein fallout. Mona Juul, Oslo's ambassador to Jordan and Iraq, stepped down Sunday after her government said newly released documents showed troubling contacts with the disgraced financier. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide called it "a serious lapse in judgment" and said the situation made it hard to maintain the level of trust required for her post, per Politico . The Foreign Ministry had previously suspended Juul upon opening an inquiry into what she knew about Epstein and whether their relationship affected her work. The ministry did not spell out the details it says emerged from US Justice Department files, but Norwegian media have focused on Juul's husband, diplomat Terje Rd-Larsen. Emails from June 2019weeks before Epstein's arrest on sex trafficking chargesdescribe Epstein planning a dinner in Paris with Rd-Larsen and former Council of Europe chief Thorbjrn Jagland. The names of Juul, Rd-Larsen, and Jagland appear multiple times in the newly released correspondence. The Foreign Ministry has said it will also review prior grants to the International Peace Institute think tank previously run by Rd-Larsen, per Reuters. Juul's lawyer, Thomas Skjelbred, said she will first explain her contacts with Epstein to the Foreign Ministry in meetings expected this week. Eide said authorities must determine "the extent of her contact with Epstein in her capacity as an employee of the ministry" and whether her past explanations match the newer information. Juul previously served as a Labour Party politician and as Norway's ambassador to Israel, Britain, and the United Nations. With her husband, she was central to the secret talks that produced the Oslo Accords between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization in the early 1990s. (Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell had a behind-the-scenes role in Clinton world.) Freshly unsealed Justice Department documents reveal how deeply Ghislaine Maxwell embedded herself in Bill Clinton's post-White House worldand how that differed from Jeffrey Epstein's role. Emails in the Epstein case files show Maxwell was heavily involved in getting the first Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) conference off the ground in 2004, well before Epstein's 2006 indictment and her own sex-trafficking conviction. She joined budget talks, worked with Clinton aides and event producer Publicis, and arranged a $1 million wire transfer to pay Publicis for its work, the New York Times reports. Epstein was aware of the payment, asking Maxwell in one email why the money was needed "now and where will it be going," but the funding source remains unclear. The records bolster Maxwell's claim in a 2023 Justice Department interview that she had a "very central" role in CGI's creation, and they depict her as a more consistent presence in the Clinton orbit than Epstein. She sent the former president novelty "devil slippers," attended Chelsea Clinton's 2010 wedding alongside Clinton Foundation donor Ted Waitt, was a guest at the Clinton Global Initiative conference in 2013, and, by her account, dined with Bill Clinton at some point between 2016 and 2018, per the New York Times and London Times. "President Clinton was my friend, not Epstein's friend," she told investigators. She also traded flirtatious emails with top Clinton aide Doug Band in the early 2000s, though Band now calls her "a monster" and says there was no physical relationship. The files offer little new about Hillary Clinton and do not contradict Bill Clinton's statements that he cut ties with Epstein before 2006 and never visited Epstein's private island. Flight logs still show Clinton took four trips on Epstein's jet in 2002 and 2003, including a 10-day tour with Maxwell and celebrities aboard. A Clinton spokesperson previously said the former president "has nothing to hide" and supports full release of the Epstein files, while House Republicans prepare to question both Clintons under oath about their Epstein ties later this month. White House Press Secretary Karoline Levitt has highlighted a photo showing Bill Clinton in a hot tub with a person whose face is redacted. The House oversight committee has also claimed he was "pictured receiving a 'massage' from one of Mr Epstein's victims." Catherine O'Hara died from a blood clot in the lungs brought on by cancer, according to Los Angeles County officials. The medical examiner's office on Monday listed the 71-year-old actor's immediate cause of death as pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to an artery in the lung, with rectal cancer identified as the underlying condition, TMZ reports. The death certificate states O'Hara was cremated and her ashes released to her husband, production designer and director Robert "Bo" Welch. The Canadian-born star, best known for her roles in Home Alone, Schitt's Creek, and Beetlejuice, died in late January after being rushed to a hospital in serious condition, with emergency dispatchers reporting that she was having difficulty breathing. She had not publicly disclosed any health struggles and it's not clear how long she had been fighting cancer, ABC News reports. The CDC says colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. After O'Hara's Jan. 30 death, she was praised as "one of the great movie moms." The Toyota brand is a juggernaut in the automotive marketplace. Toyotas are ubiquitous on American roadways, with numerous vehicles across categories receiving high acclaim and consistently large sales volumes. Even vehicles like the Toyota Hilux, which was essentially banned in the U.S., remain vaunted examples of Toyota's history and innovation. However, in recent years, Toyota has experienced a few setbacks. The brand is frequently ranked as the most reliable automaker by Consumer Reports, but in early 2025, the outlet's rankings highlighted a new reliability champion. Subaru claimed the top spot, and Lexus came in second (a luxury brand owned by Toyota, but not the flagship badge of the corporation). Toyota had to settle for third place, and even though the automaker has regained the top spot in Consumer Reports' most recent rankings, the fluctuation highlights creeping instability within the Toyota catalog. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Honda's CR-V TrailSport Hybrid Looks Great, But The Smart Money Buys A Different Trim Major recall issues a Toyota Corolla on fire - DJSinop/Shutterstock Recalls are never good, especially for brands with a reputation for trust and reliability. Since automakers build tens of millions of vehicles in the U.S. alone each year (roughly 16.5 million per year from 2015 to 2019 and almost 13 million in 2022, the last year data is available for, via USA Facts), there are bound to be pain points that require fixing. Sometimes these are simple issues, but other problems are far more jarring. For instance, in 2023, NHTSA investigated reports of the Tesla Model Y inexplicably allowing its steering wheel to come off. Last year, Ford experienced the highest number of total recall orders. 12.9 million Ford vehicles were potentially affected by problems highlighted in recall orders. Toyota didn't experience nearly as many recalls, but still came second on the list with 3.2 million potentially affected vehicles. Toyota was one of just five brands with more than 1 million vehicles affected, even as it was subjected to just 15 individual complaints. Unfortunately for Toyota's reputation, many of its recent problems were high-profile issues rather than small quirks. In 2024, more than 380,000 older Tacomas were recalled due to improper rear axle fixtures, and new Tacoma models have had problematic transmissions. Another highly visible issue involves GR Corollas catching fire. These recalls will remain contentious, even though Toyota's recalls are significantly smaller than Ford's. Toyota's new Tacoma, Tundra, and bZ4X SUV all underperformed user satisfaction expectations man standing next to a bZ4X - Cristi Croitoru/Getty Images In December 2025, Consumer Reports named Toyota the most reliable car maker. But a year prior, Toyota tumbled for a collection of issues, crowning Subaru as the leader of the pack. In large part, this fall came because drivers were underwhelmed or even unhappy with three of Toyota's new models. User satisfaction scores showed significant drop-offs with the new Tacoma, Tundra, and Toyota's all-electric SUV, the bZ4X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All three models scored below average on their reliability marks. This knock in overall performance came at the same time Subaru had just one underperforming model. Many of the satisfaction issues arose from a suite of big updates. Many automakers deliver small updates for a few consecutive years, keeping the parts and general aesthetics relatively unchanged from one model to the next. But 2024 saw a big update to the look and feel of many Toyota vehicles, and it appears that users didn't like the new style as much as Toyota would have hoped. Conversely, Subaru is well known to make as few visual and functional changes as possible, leading to a more stable expectation and experience from one year to the next. 2021 saw a new engine build, and manufacturing issues left metal shavings behind Toyota Tundra in the snow - Lena Philip/Shutterstock In 2021, Toyota phased out its V8 engines for a newly formatted twin-turbo V6 model. This was a striking decision for those who know and love Toyota vehicles. The brand has long been associated with simpler designs that make maintaining cars easier over the long term. Toyotas feature significant overall durability, and their critical components last a long time, in part because they're built to be highly functional with as few complications as possible. The old V8 that powered Toyotas fit that bill perfectly, while its replacement delivered solid power and performance, but relied on far more internal pressure, a higher volume of moving parts, and greater technical complexities. The benefit of this swap was evident, though: In particular, it offered immense low-end torque that's ideal for hauling material in a truckbed or with its hitch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Concerns over the change mounted before real drivers had tested the vehicle on real roads, but a manufacturing issue doomed the engines to fail for a different reason. Over 100,000 Toyota Tundras and Lexus LXs were recalled in 2024 because the engines' manufacturing process left tiny metal shavings within the structure, allowing them to migrate to sensitive, internal nooks and crannies and cause the engines to fail. Engine failure is certainly a major issue, but the root cause of this problem should have been entirely avoidable. Toyota is being sued in 2026 for secretly tracking drivers closeup of man driving a Toyota - Daria Kulkova/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toyota is already facing an issue in 2026, and it may impact countless owners. A Florida man is suing Toyota because his 2021 RAV4 has been collecting telemetry data on his driving habits, and that information was recently used to form a profile that raised his insurance rates. Toyota has argued that his acceptance of the terms and conditions in using the vehicle's connected services clearly indicates the collection of data such as this. However, within that agreement, there isn't a clear indication of whether Toyota reserves the right to sell or otherwise disseminate that information to third parties, including buyers like insurance companies. In the past, other automakers have been flagged for quietly sharing data with third-party users. GM was barred from selling data, in particular, after its Smart Driver program was exposed as a data collection effort that generated a lucrative side enterprise without user consent. After these dubious allegations, drivers may be wary of the information they share with Toyota. New improvements are in the works, but drivers have long disliked Toyota's touchscreen controls a Toyota infotainment screen - JustPhotos22/Shutterstock Beyond a car's performance and technical specifications, there's the 'infotainment' system, which has become a central feature in most modern cars. Gone are the days of analog dials and buttons to control various features of the passenger environment. Advertisement Advertisement Like its peers, Toyota packs air conditioning, GPS, and a radio into a single interface. That can be effective, but Toyotas have long had unpopular touchscreen control systems. In Toyota's luxury Lexus models, much of the disdain is directed at the vehicles' touchpad or joystick control elements. However, recent updates look to change this within the Toyota universe. Since the early 2020s, Toyota's infotainment systems have far more processing power than their predecessors. The brand may have retained a visually outdated user interface that feels cheap and uninspiring, but new voice controls, greater responsiveness, and standard integrations like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have made a marked difference. Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on SlashGear. TDT | Manama Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com The World Scholars Cup (WSC) Bahrain Regional Round 2026 concluded with remarkable enthusiasm and scholarly spirit, bringing together around 750 students from 20 schools across the Kingdom of Bahrain. This prestigious international academic event featured rigorous competitions in Debate, Collaborative Writing, Team Challenge, and the Knowledge Bowl, with participants contesting across both Junior and Senior Divisions. Among the participating institutions, BhavansBahrain Indian School (BIS) delivered an exceptional and commanding performance, emerging as the Overall First Place School in the Senior Division. The scholars of BIS demonstrated outstanding intellectual ability, teamwork, and interdisciplinary proficiency, earning widespread recognition across categories. BIS secured an impressive tally of 213 gold medals, 164 silver medals, and numerous trophies across events in both divisions reflecting the schools sustained emphasis on academic rigour, critical thinking, collaborative research, debate, and holistic scholar development. In the overall standings, Bahrain Indian School clinched the Top Overall School Position in the Bahrain Round. The institution celebrated its triumph as the 1st Place Senior Overall Team Champion, led by Sreyas Sreevalsan, Arnav Singh Dewan, and Prince Shrestha. BIS teams also claimed multiple Top 5 Senior Division positions and a Top 10 Junior Overall position, further highlighting the schools excellence across age groups. The JAC Khor Trophy The Heart of WSC A major highlight of the event was the prestigious JAC Khor Trophy, awarded for kindness, enthusiasm, positivity, support for others, leadership through encouragement, and contributions to building a welcoming WSC community. BIS scholars proudly earned this distinction: Senior Division JAC Khor Award: Arnav Singh Dewan Junior Division JAC Khor Award: Dhruv Trivedi This honour underscores BISs commitment not only to academic excellence but also to values, empathy, and spirit. Top Individual Honours BIS scholars swept major individual titles in both divisions: Junior Champion Scholar: Armaan Bin Awaz Senior Champion Scholar: Arnav Singh Dewan 2nd Place Senior Champion Scholar: Rachana Redla Additionally, Senior Barely Old Scholar Winner: Arnav Singh Dewan Event Highlights & Major Wins Senior Division 1st Place Senior Team Writing Champions: Rachana Redla, Joanna Ann Abey, Satakshi Dev 1st Place Senior Team Challenge Champions 1st Place Senior Team Bowl Champions: Sreyas Sreevalsan, Arnav Singh Dewan, Prince Shrestha Junior Division 3rd Place Junior Team Writing: Neethu Thomas, Khyathi Chandra Mohan, Gauri Rajilal 2nd Place Junior Debate: Esha Ashik & Veda Nair 2nd Place Junior Team Bowl: Gunjan Pal, Rubika Shrestha, Aadhya Sharma 1st Place Junior Writing: Arjun Maheskumar Challenge Medals (All Divisions GOLD) For exceptional performance across Arts, Social Science, History, Literature, Science, and Special Areas, BIS scholars earned numerous Challenge Medals, including: Dhruv Trivedi Vedanta Kapil Arnav Singh Dewan Alpaca Awards Junior Division BIS also excelled in the creative and community-building Alpaca categories: 2nd Place: Pari Desai, Dhanuha Anissh, Aparnaa Shrithar 3rd Place: Miya Rony, Nuhaa Atiyah Zunairah, Nihal Nirmal Qualification for Global Rounds A significant number of BIS scholars qualified for the World Scholars Cup Global Rounds, strengthening the schools standing among Bahrains top academic institutions and further demonstrating its strong global competitiveness. The outstanding performance of Bahrain Indian School at the World Scholars Cup Bahrain Round 2026 stands as a testament to its academic excellence, structured training programmes, dedicated educators, supportive management, and the unwavering commitment of its scholars. As BIS continues to set new benchmarks of excellence, the school proudly celebrates this milestone as a reflection of its vision for holistic, globally competitive education. Directors Mr. Himanshu Verma & Mrs. Ritu Verma and Principal Mr. Saji Jacob extended their congratulations to the young delegates for their exceptional achievement. The BIS community is immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of these budding scholars in the Global Round too said Mr. Himanshu Verma, Director. Feb 09 (News On Japan) - There is already a clear Asia relocation trend in 2026. Thousands of Brits and Americans are making the decision to live in some of the worlds fastest-growing economies, including China, or picking a cultural hub like Japan. This article covers the multitude of reasons that you might consider moving to Japan or China. Relocation to China may require legal assistance from immigration lawyers. One leading option is Immigration Advice Service, which has helped many clients with visas for China and Japan. Get in touch today to begin your relocation process. Why Move to China in 2026?: The Economy China has a decent-sized British expat community at an estimated 30,000 people. Most of them are concentrated in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. This growing community eases the culture shock and difficulties that emerge from one of the worlds hardest languages to learn. China is also a nation with incredible economic strength. Economic growth in 2025 was 5%. This means that it is still a nation in transition, despite a drop from the 8.7% average from 1989 to 2025. Its technological development and research sectors are areas of particular focus for the government. As a result, professionals from around the world are in incredibly high demand. At a time when finding work in the West can be challenging, you shouldnt find too many difficulties getting work in China if you have desirable skills. Much of the proceeds from this growth have gone into developing superb public transport systems that will be particularly enticing for prospective US expats coming from a nation with poor transport infrastructure. 25 Chinese cities are serviced by metro systems, with the best and longest being in Shanghai. Why Move to China in 2026?: The Culture The nation also has some of the worlds best high-speed rail, vital to exploring this incredibly vast nation. Its easier than ever to visit famous sights in your free time, like the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army. China is also known for its fantastic cuisine, which is an essential aspect of Chinese culture. It is also such a large country that you will never run out of local delicacies. The political aspects of Chinese culture can cause difficulties for Westerners. Americans and Brits enjoy extensive political freedoms while living in full democracies. If you arent happy about something in Britain or the USA, you are free to speak your mind, often disruptively. Article 35 of Chinas constitution guarantees its citizens the right to freedom of speech. Yet, the reality is often far more restrictive. The British government notes that the CCP [Chinese Communist Party] does not tolerate open discussion on sensitive issues or protests which challenge party leadership or contravene the interests of the state, and that those criticising the state can attract attention from the authorities. Why Move to Japan in 2026?: The Economy Japan cant get near Chinas growth rate and is considered by some to be a nation on the decline. There was almost no growth in 2024, and the nation has averaged a growth rate of 0.42% from 1980 to 2025. While this may reduce the prosperity you can find in Japan, there are still plenty of compelling reasons to move to the nation in 2026. Despite the lack of growth, approaching stagnation in some years, there are still fantastic economic opportunities if you choose cities wisely. There are almost 15 million people spread across the megacities Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka alone. With close Japanese ties to Western nations, many firms treasure those with native English skills. The boom in Japanese tourism will continue in 2026, indicating this could be a particularly high-demand sector. Even in Japans most expensive city, Tokyo, the cost of living is significantly lower than in the US or the UK. When compared with London, the Tokyo cost of living is 40.4% lower, excluding rent, and 50.2% lower, including rent. That yields a purchasing power 4.2% higher than in London, showing that higher London salaries cant keep up with the high cost of living. Why Move to Japan in 2026?: The Culture Economic opportunities in Japan are clearly not as enticing as in China. However, the nations culture will make up for this for plenty of people. The food culture is excellent, especially if you love fish, given the nations vast coastline. Ramen is also a popular comfort food. Japans religious culture is also endlessly fascinating. The nation has a unique blend of Shintoism and Buddhism. Whether you go in the country, you will always be able to find stunning temples and shrines to visit. Outside of the culturally rich cities, there is plenty of natural beauty to enjoy. Mount Fuji, Japans highest peak, is a relatively short distance from Tokyo. South of the mainland is Okinawa, Japans tropical island. The Japanese Alps are also popular for their snow sports. All of this can be enjoyed comfortably, owing to the fact that Japan is one of the worlds safest nations. That is due to the well-organised police force and Japans rules-based culture. How Can Immigration Advice Service Help? Whether you decide to move to Japan or China, you will almost certainly require a visa. Seeking assistance from immigration lawyers, such as the experts at Immigration Advice Service, is a sound idea. Our team can help you to navigate Japan and Chinas complex visa system to understand which one is right for you. We can then guide you through the entire application process, ensuring that all of your documentation is in order. IAS can also help if your visa application has been rejected, guiding you through each nations appeals process. Get help from IAS today by calling us. You can also visit us online for information on the range of services we offer for Chinese and Japanese visa applicants. In today's digital environment, inaccurate content about sexual and reproductive health spreads rapidly across social media, search engines and online platforms with the help of algorithms and online influencers' personal stories. This information lacks scientific grounding and can lead to confusion, mistrust in evidence-based care and, most importantly, can have a serious impact on personal health-related decisions. With ongoing issues of access to care in Canada, many women report trying to get faster answers by simply turning to "Dr. Google." In October, 2025, the SOGC called out health misinformation and disinformation as a form of violence against women. False information about health remedies or medications can cause real harm to women and girls and can undermine trust in health care, even if these options are evidence-based and safe. As the national voice for women's health in Canada, the SOGC emphasizes the importance of consulting trusted, evidence-based sources and qualified health care providers. The SOGC offers a number of public education tools and resources with science-based information and advice from clinicians about sex and sexual health, contraception and family planning, abortion care, menopause, menstruation and pregnancy. For more information, visit sogc.org to access these and many other resources. The SOGC holds regular education events for health professionals and for the public to help ensure Canadians have access to evidence-based health advice. As part of this work, the SOGC is hosting two upcoming live public events bringing together OB-GYNs and women who have had difficult experiences on two specific topics: early pregnancy loss and menopause. Come and ask your questions! Everyone is invited to join these interactive sessions. When women understand what is happening to their bodies and the options available to them, they are better equipped to make informed choices for themselves. "Misinformation about vaccines, contraception, fertility and other aspects of reproductive health does more than mislead -- it can cause real harm. During Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week, the SOGC emphasizes the importance of reliable, evidence-based information so women can make informed choices about their health with confidence." Dr. Lynn Murphy-Kaulbeck, President, Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada SOURCE The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada Media Inquiries: Kelsey MacDonald, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, [email protected] | 613-730-4192 ext. 228 Sayers has alleged since at least 2023 that officers accessed her personal data without a lawful purpose, monitored her movements, and shared her information across police services. The consequences have been devastating: Sayers was forced to leave her home community. Her car was stolen under suspicious circumstances. Then male officers would call as early as 6:00 am and show up late in the evening. Sayers alleges the police in Sault Ste. Marie and Toronto have continued to harass her systematically and in inappropriate ways. Sayers' complaints were assigned to the Toronto Police for investigation. The Factum argues the investigation was compromised. Specifically: Audit periods were artificially narrowed. The hearsay of a now-deceased officer was accepted uncritically. And the oversight body aligned itself with the police position that she was a frivolous complainant. In addition, one government lawyer assigned to oppose her case made personal overtures toward her before withdrawing from the case. In Sayers' case, there is a repeating pattern -- it is alleged confidential database access was weaponized outside lawful authority -- but directed not at a criminal enterprise, but at an Indigenous woman. "The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls documented how policing failures endanger Indigenous women," said Sayers. "My case is a direct example of what was warned about. When police can access your most private information at will and face no real consequences, no Indigenous woman is safe." Dr. Michael F. Motala, a lawyer, law professor, and LGBTIQ2S activist, observed: "The pattern is one where confidential systems built for public safety become tools of control and intimidation." "Until and unless oversight is genuinely independent, impartial, equitable, and fair, these abuses will fall on everyone, and hardest on those already most marginalized." There are concerns about improper police database access, with penalties including, but not limited to, docked pay and criminal charges. Advocates say the current patchwork of oversight bodies lacks the independence to address a systemic problem. Sayers and her supporters call on the appropriate governments to establish a fully independent investigative agency to probe police database abuse province-wide. "No police service should investigate itself when implicated in the same structural failures," says Motala. "Public trust requires nothing less--a comprehensive national inquiry, at the very least." SOURCE EVERLEX LPC Media Contact: EVERLEX LEGAL PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION, [email protected] Torrance, United States / California, February 9th, 2026, CyberNewswire Criminal IP (criminalip.io), the AI-powered threat intelligence and attack surface intelligence platform, is now integrated with IBM QRadar SIEM and QRadar SOAR. The integration brings external, IP-based threat intelligence directly into IBM QRadars detection, investigation, and response workflows, enabling security teams to identify malicious activity faster and prioritize response actions more effectively across SOC operations. IBM QRadar is widely adopted by enterprises and public-sector organizations as a central platform for security monitoring, automation, and incident response. By embedding Criminal IP intelligence into QRadar SIEM and extending it into SOAR workflows, organizations can apply external threat context across the incident lifecycle without leaving the QRadar environment. Real-Time Threat Visibility from Firewall Traffic Logs With the Criminal IP QRadar SIEM integration, security teams can analyze firewall traffic logs and automatically assess the risk associated with communicating IP addresses. Traffic data forwarded into IBM QRadar SIEM is analyzed through the Criminal IP API and reflected directly inside the SIEM interface. Observed IP addresses are automatically classified into High, Medium, or Low risk levels from a threat intelligence perspective. This allows SOC teams to quickly identify high-risk IPs, monitor inbound and outbound traffic, and prioritize response actions such as access blocking or escalation within the familiar QRadar SIEM workflow. Interactive Investigation Without Leaving QRadar Beyond high-level visibility, the integration supports fast, in-context investigation. Analysts can right-click on IP addresses displayed in QRadar Log Activity to open a detailed Criminal IP report. These reports provide additional context, including threat indicators, historical behavior, and external exposure signals, enabling analysts to validate risk and intent without switching tools. This streamlined workflow supports faster decision-making during time-sensitive investigations. Extending Intelligence into QRadar SOAR Workflows Criminal IP is also integrated with IBM QRadar SOAR to support automated threat enrichment during incident response. Using pre-built playbooks, Criminal IP intelligence can be applied to IP addresses and URL artifacts, with enrichment results returned directly into SOAR cases as artifact hits or incident notes. This integration includes two playbooks: Criminal IP: IP Threat Service Enriches IP address artifacts with Criminal IP threat context. Criminal IP: URL Threat Service Performs lite or full URL scans and returns results as artifact hits or incident notes. By embedding Criminal IP threat intelligence directly into SOAR workflows, analysts can reduce manual lookups and respond to incidents more efficiently. Advancing Intelligence-Driven Detection and Response By integrating Criminal IP with IBM QRadar SIEM and SOAR, organizations can combine QRadars correlation, investigation, and response capabilities with context-rich external threat intelligence derived from real-world internet exposure. This approach improves detection accuracy, shortens investigation cycles, and enhances response prioritization across SOC operations. As alert volumes continue to grow, Criminal IP helps QRadar users make faster, more informed decisions by bringing external threat context directly into SIEM and SOAR workflows without adding operational complexity. AI SPERA CEO Byungtak Kang commented that the integration highlights the growing importance of real-time, exposure-based intelligence in modern SOC environments and underscores Criminal IPs focus on improving detection confidence and operational efficiency through practical, intelligence-driven integrations. About Criminal IP Criminal IP is the flagship cyber threat intelligence platform developed by AI SPERA and is used in more than 150 countries worldwide. It equips security teams with the actionable Threat Intelligence needed to proactively identify, analyze, and respond to emerging threats. Powered by AI and OSINT, it delivers threat scoring, reputation data, and real-time detection of a wide array of malicious indicators, ranging from C2 servers and IOCs to masking services like VPNs, proxies, and anonymous VPNs, across IPs, domains, and URLs. Its API-first architecture ensures seamless integration into security workflows to boost visibility, automation, and response. Contact Michael Sena AI SPERA [email protected] Marilia, SP, Brazil, December 11, 2024. Facade of the car dealership of the Chinese BYD, Building Your Dreams, which sells electric and hybrid cars, in the city of Marilia - Alfribeiro/Getty Images Happy Monday! It's February 9, 2026, and this is The Morning Shift your daily roundup of the top automotive headlines from around the world, in one place. This is where you'll find the most important stories that are shaping the way Americans drive and get around. In this morning's edition, we're looking at American dealers' fears and opportunities around Chinese cars, as well as Canada's intent to keep making cars. We'll also look at India's new tariff structures, and BMW's latest big recall. Read more: Why Formula One Engines Went From V12s To V6s 1st Gear: Dealers may soon have to choose between sinophobia and profit Udine, Italy. June 16, 2022. BYD Song plus models lined up outside the official dealership of the chinese electric vehicles automaker BYD - Luca Piccini Basile/Getty Images Car dealers in the United States love the Trump administration. Their contributions to political campaigns, their lobbying, it all points towards a love for the 45th and 47th president. And yet, when push comes to shove, it seems some aren't so sure about Trump's goal to ban Chinese-built vehicles from American roads. From Automotive News: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should U.S. dealers sell Chinese cars? The question divided industry leaders at the NADA Show, with many acknowledging profit potential even as their trade group pushes to keep Chinese automakers out of the market. "We actually survey dealers in our year-end survey ... interestingly, a majority of the dealer respondents saw it as a threat and opportunity both. All indicators suggest that the vehicles are really good, slick and more affordable, especially as you have [the Chinese] government subsidizing," said George Karolis, president of Presidio Group, a dealership mergers and acquisitions advisory firm. While dealers here voiced support for the Trump administration's efforts to keep imported Chinese vehicles out of the U.S. market, many said they are focused on selling cars. If Chinese automakers find an entry point with inventory that beats legacy automakers on pricing and addresses the growing new-vehicle affordability crisis, they will jump in. That was the message from multiple dealers who asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the topic. In the red corner, sinophobia! In the blue corner, profit! Three, two, one, fight! 2nd Gear: Canada wants Big Three auto manufacturing, no matter what happens with tariffs Windsor, Ontario, Canada - October 23, 2021: The Stellantis/Chrysler automobile assembly plant in Windsor, Ontario is the city's major employer. Societal shifts from gas powered vehicles to electric will alter the future of this plant. It may be retooled to accommodate electric vehicles in the future. Otherwise, its future may be in doubt. Other potential uses for this facility may be in the electric battery field. In the meantime, it continues as the assembly plant for the Dodge Caravan and the Chrysler Pacifica mini vans, one of the company's most popular vehicles. - Steven_kriemadis/Getty Images Trump's tariffs have pushed automakers to shift production from plants in Canada to the United States. Canada is unhappy with this arrangement, so it's working on incentivizing automakers to come back regardless of what the Trump administration does with its foreign policy. From Automotive News: The Canadian government is reformulating its playbook for keeping the country's auto manufacturing sector afloat, even in the face of long-term U.S. tariffs. Ottawa is preparing for all outcomes, but is holding out hope that upcoming trade talks will keep United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) known as CUSMA in Canada on track, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Feb. 5. "Canada continues to favour a zero-tariff regime with the United States in autos because we know that will deliver the strongest North American auto industry," Carney said in a speech from an auto parts plant north of Toronto. "But if the U.S., through the CUSMA review, insists on some form of auto tariffs, we'll ensure that companies that sell vehicles in Canada are strongly incentivized to produce in Canada." Will those incentives be tax breaks? Probably, but we can imagine some more interesting options. Maybe, for every car Stellantis produces in Canada, the Canadian government will give Antonio Filosa one (1) jug of really good maple syrup. It's a good deal, he should consider it. 3rd Gear: India lets Harley-Davidson in, but not Tesla Bengaluru, India - Dec 14, 2015: Heavy traffic on the roads of Bengaluru city , India, recorded the world's third-slowest traffic in 2024. - SNEHIT PHOTO/Shutterstock Tesla has been trying to make inroads in India, with little success. CEO Elon Musk had hoped for India to lower tariffs on American EVs under new trade agreements, but it seems he won't be getting his wish. Harley-Davidson, though, will get access to a massive motorcycle market. From Reuters: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement India will slash tariffs on high-end American cars to 30% from as high as 110% and eliminate duties on Harley-Davidson bikes under an interim trade pact, an official said, but will not make concessions for electric vehicles, a move that pointedly leaves Tesla out. The U.S. and India moved closer to a trade pact after releasing an interim framework on Friday, days after President Donald Trump said duties on Indian exports would be cut to 18% from 50% in exchange for New Delhi halting purchases of Russian oil. Under the deal, tariffs on traditional internal-combustion cars with engine capacity above 3,000 cc would fall gradually to 30% over 10 years, an Indian government official said. Electric vehicles have been excluded from the deal, the official added, shutting the door on a possible lower-tariff entry route for Tesla ignoring a key demand from Elon Musk, who has frequently criticised India's high duties. India is a truly incredible market for motorcycles, but the country runs on smaller, cheaper bikes than Harley produces. Maybe that Chinese-made beginner bike will take off over there? 4th Gear: BMW recalls 87,000 coupes, sedans, convertibles, and X4s/X3s for possible starter motor fires Minas Gerais, Brazil - 26 11 2025: Grey BMW Z4 convertible front end view top closed, Matte paint luxury roadster on asphalt - JustPhotos22/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BMW has a big recall out, affecting starters on much of its lineup at least, its non-SUV lineup. Turns out, starter motors aren't supposed to be self-heating, even in the cold spells we've seen in much of the U.S. recently. Who knew? From KWCH 12: BMW is recalling more than 87,000 vehicles due to the threat of the engine starter overheating, causing a fire risk. The company reported that the overheating can happen from the engine starter wearing internally and advised that dealers will replace the starter for free. Affected vehicles include: 20212023 Toyota Supra 20222023 BMW 2 Series Coupe 20212024 BMW 5 Series (including 530i and 530i xDrive) 20212022 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 20222024 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i) 20212024 BMW 4 Series Convertible (including xDrive) 20212023 BMW 4 Series Coupe (including xDrive) 20212024 BMW 3 Series (330i and 330i xDrive) 20212023 BMW X4 xDrive30i and 20212024 BMW X3 (sDrive30i and xDrive30i) If you have an affected BMW, you'll hear about it next month. You may not want to wait that long for a repair, though, unless you really like fire. Reverse: The 'Smokey and the Bandit' prequel had a weird tone shift The boys are thirsty in Atlanta, and there's a Coors heir in Colorado. On The Radio: Tacocat - 'I Love Seattle' God bless the Seahawks. Super Bowl 49 was rough, but things are better now. Someday I'll actually get to visit the city, but for now I'll happily back any team that has a chance of kicking the Patriots' teeth in. Which, of course, the Seahawks did handily last night. So, in their honor, Seattle band Tacocat performing in Seattle (for a Seattle radio station) a song about how much they love Seattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter to get the latest auto news sent straight to your inbox, and add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on Jalopnik. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images After getting caught on a hot mic lamenting a boring Olympic event, NBC announcer Todd Richards addressed his blunder. During the Mens Big Air snowboarding final over the weekend, Richards was heard saying, That was boring. That was so boring. The qualifier was more exciting on the Peacock broadcast. After the clip went viral on social media, Richards recorded a video to address the elephant in the room and clarify what he meant by his assessment of the boring Big Air final. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Todd Richards (@btoddrichards) This had nothing to do with the athletes, it had everything to do with the drama that went down in qualifiers, we had Val Guseli getting the call-up four hours before the event, Richards said in his the video. We had all kinds of different creative tricks being done, butters off the lip, different kinds of axis of rotation, all these riders trying to get it by doing creative spins. In the final? A lot of people fell, and a lot of people truly did the same trick. It has nothing to do with what these athletes do because the riders come out here and they throw down. I have the utmost respect for them. It really just lent itself to the format, and I thought the qualifier had a lot more excitement, Richards continued of his commentary. I apologize if anyone took that as if I was calling out any of the riders out there because it truly wasnt about them. These guys are my heroes, they are my friends, they are my colleagues, and they are all rippers. So, huge shout-outs to everyone who came out here tonight and threw down. In the event, Japans Kira Kimura won the Mens Big Air gold medal. Japans Ryoma Kimata earned a silver medal with Chinas Su Yiming winning bronze. 17-year-old American Ollie Martin just missed out on an Olympic medal, finishing in fourth place. Richards acknowledged he thought they were off-air when he made the boring comment to Todd Harris on the broadcast. But he also maintained that it was an honest assessment and one he would have had no issue saying in public or to a reporter. This is Richards sixth Olympics working as a commentator for NBC. And while NBC might not love its announcers calling an Olympic final boring while on-air, this shouldnt even rate on the hot mic blunder scale. If the event wasnt as exciting as the qualifier, then Richards wasnt saying anything the audience didnt already notice. A new community-driven cafe has opened its doors in Bergenfield, bringing specialty coffee and a neighborhood gathering space to Bergen County. Running Latte Cafe began with a soft launch on Jan. 25 at 189 N. Washington Ave., offering coffee, fresh juices and a seasonal food menu. A grand opening, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, DJs and new menu items, is set for March 28. The family-run cafe plans to engage the community by hosting run clubs, book clubs and other events. The cafe is operated by Missy Duque-Alonso, her sister Linette Duque-Phillips, cousin Gio Barreto and their father, Gelson Duque. The concept stems from the familys shared love for running and their connection to a coffee farm in Colombia, where Duque-Alonso and her sister spent summers learning the coffee production process. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the sisters launched Missy and Linny Coffee Company, selling Colombian coffee beans at farmers markets and pop-up events. The family paused operations in 2024 and set their sights on launching a physical cafe. They found the Bergenfield location, formerly a Filipino restaurant, on Facebook Marketplace and signed the lease in August. An iced matcha latte and dirty ube latte with cold foam from Running Latte Cafe. Photo courtesy of Missy Duque-Alonso The restaurant is really just a vibe that we absolutely love bringing into Bergenfield and to the surrounding towns, Duque-Alonso said. We didnt know there was a need for it until we were there, and were so happy that were there for everyone in the community. Since the soft launch, the menus bestsellers include the brown sugar shaken espresso, dirty ube latte and strawberry cold brew. The pacesetter sandwich and empanadas are top food items, Duque-Alonso said. The cafe also serves dishes like arepas, salads, chia bowls, avocado toast and rotating seasonal specials. The interior features greenery, wood elements, coffee bags and a mural of coffee plants painted by Duque-Alonsos friend. A bike hangs on the wall, and wooden beams were crafted by her father. Duque-Alonso credited the familys collaborative approach for their success, with each member contributing different strengths. Duque-Phillips develops design and drink concepts, Barreto creates food concepts with his restaurant experience, Duque-Alonso manages data and point-of-sale systems, and their father coordinated the buildout. One thing that we all said to each other is the beauty of removing ego from the equation because were all really good at certain aspects, Duque-Alonso said. Running Latte Cafe operates from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday to Sunday. The cafe is closed on Mondays. Students at 23 New Jersey colleges and universities will soon begin seeing upgrades to their campuses thanks to grants handed out through a state-backed bond program. The 92 grants totaling $244.4 million will go toward maintenance projects, campus security upgrades and general improvements at facilities used by students, state officials said. (See a list of some of the projects on each campus below.) State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions, Angela Bethea, assistant secretary and chief financial officer of the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, said in announcing the grants Jan. 8 (Bethea at that time was serving as acting secretary of higher education). The money for the projects is coming from the states Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund and the Higher Education Facilities Trust. The largest recipient of the recent round of grants is New Jersey City University, a public university that has struggled with funding problems in recent years. The school is slated to merge with Kean University later this year. The 99-year-old public university in Jersey City will receive grants totaling $44 million for multiple projects. Former Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation shortly before leaving office transferring all of New Jersey City Universitys academic programs, facilities and assets to Kean University. Deferred maintenance has been a longstanding issue on the NJCU campus, predating the merger by many years, Kean University spokesperson Nicole Francisco said. There was a clear understanding that addressing those infrastructure needs would require a significant state investment to position the campus for long-term success. The $44 million provided by the state reflects that broader effort to stabilize and strengthen the campus, Francisco said. The 92 grants at the 23 colleges and universities are funding a wide range of facility improvements, including structural repairs to meet health, safety, fire and building code standards, officials said. Fire alarms are being upgraded, emergency generators are being installed and building access is being enhanced. Outdated HVAC systems, boilers and chillers are being replaced. Classrooms and labs are being renovated, officials said. Preserving, maintaining, and reimagining college campuses across the state has helped New Jersey maintain its role as a leader in higher education, said Sheryl Stitt, executive director of the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority, a state agency that helps finance projects on college campuses. With deferred maintenance needs in higher education growing exponentially across the country, this investment will have a meaningful impact on the States higher education environments where our students and faculty live, learn, and work every day, Stitt said. A full list of the 92 projects is available on the states website. Examples of projects on each campus include: County College of Morris- $6,175,000 Upgrades at the county college will address fire and life safety codes at Cohen Hall, Sheffield Hall, DeMare Hall, Emeriti Hall and connected areas. Drew University- $516,025 Drew is replacing the chiller serving the Ehinger Centers student services area, which houses administrative offices, Title IX compliance, student affairs leadership, and other student support functions. Essex County College- $1,000,000 The college is renovating approximately 100 instructional spaces, including general classrooms, the Siegler and Smith lecture halls, the Mary B. Burch Theater and the multipurpose room. Fairleigh Dickinson University- $8,313,855 The universitys Library Learning Center at its Metropolitan campus in Teaneck is being updated to shift from emphasizing print resources and siloed research to focusing on digital learning, interdisciplinary exploration and global connections. An entry sign at Felician University as seen in March 2025 in Lodi, New Jersey. Jeff Rhode | For NJ Advance Media Felician University- $2,575,096 The university is making technology infrastructure improvements, building repairs for accessibility and safety, and energy efficiency and safety renovations across both of its campuses Kean University- $1,550,000 Kean is renovating DAngola Gymnasium, which opened in 1963. Middlesex College- $3,756,400 The county college will make improvements to the sprinkler system, campus security and communications facility emergency equipment. Montclair State University- $9,075,000 Montclair State is upgrading HVAC units and other systems at its Harry A. Sprague Library, which opened in 1963. Grossnickle Hall at New Jersey City University as it appeared in November 2024. Reena Rose Sibayan | The Jersey New Jersey City University- $418,000 A new roof is planned for Grossnickle Hall, a four-story academic building that opened in 1962. The project will improve insulation and energy efficiency while preventing leaks and structural damage. New Jersey Institute of Technology- $12,150,000 Tiernan Hall, which opened in 1966, is being modernized by resolving a range of deferred maintenance projects. The building houses several academic departments, including classrooms, labs and lecture halls on the Newark campus. Ocean County College- $260,990 Ocean County College is replacing roofs on its Manahawkin campus building and Toms River campus information technology building. Ramapo College- $1,610,000 Work includes adding monitor modules to 15 back-up generator systems, installing a cellular based networking system for fire alarm panels throughout all academic and administrative buildings, and replacing stairs and two ramps. Rowan College of South Jersey- $10,620,000 The project includes replacing and installing a comprehensive rooftop HVAC system and boiler replacement to modernize aging mechanical infrastructure in the College Center and medical buildings. Rowan University- $2,000,000 The project will include mechanical upgrades at Science Hall to replace the buildings original exhaust fan system and install a new direct digital building controls system. Rutgers University- $3,600,000 Rutgers is replacing several roofs on the three-story Murray Hall academic building in New Brunswick. It opened in 1908. Saint Elizabeth University- $4,000,000 Saint Elizabeth is pursuing a facilities modernization project. The university opened in 1899 and is based in Morris Township and Florham Park. Saint Peters University- $4,868,558 The grant will pay for upgrading the boiler system at McDermott Hall, water management improvements at Loyola Hall and building infrastructure improvements at Guarini House. Seton Hall University- $8,450,000 Seton Hall is undertaking several maintenance projects, including renovation of Corrigan Hall, which has administrative and academic offices. Stevens Institute of Technology- $8,237,458 Stevens is renovating the 57-year-old Samuel C. Williams Library by addressing space constraints and accommodating technological upgrades in teaching, learning and research. Stockton University- $7,614,058 Stockton is undertaking a multi-building roof replacement project to improve drainage and waterproofing while enhancing energy efficiency. The College of New Jersey- $10,305,294 TCNJs Campus Utilities Deferred Maintenance and Energy Savings Project is described as a comprehensive initiative aimed at modernizing critical campus infrastructure, mitigating operational risks and achieving long-term energy savings. Union College- $15,000,000 The county colleges HVAC rooftop units at the Lessner Building are being replaced, along with the escalator that runs between the second and fifth floors. A view from July 2022 of the Atrium at William Paterson University. William Paterson University- $4,287,775 William Paterson is renovating its Atrium academic and office building in order to promote innovation and collaboration. It opened in 1996. A longtime adversary of vaccine mandates in New Jersey is trying to overturn recent updates to vaccine standards and procedures. The New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice is appealing changes adopted Jan. 20 by the state Department of Health that expand whos required to be included in the vaccine registry and allow private institutions to impose additional vaccine requirements. The group previously filed a lawsuit in December 2025 against the New Jersey Department of Health, former Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown and the Public Health Council challenging both the process and substance of the rule changes. In the complaint, which has since been withdrawn, the New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice describes itself as an organization devoted to medical freedom and comprised of parents, families and individuals across the state who care deeply about medical choice, religious freedom and personal privacy. The complaint argues that the updates impose obligations, penalties, and affect substantive rights, without lawful adoption. The organization said the litigation was about fighting against the erosion of parental rights, privacy, and due process in a public Facebook post. This is about accountability. This is about constitutional protections. And this is about standing up for families when government agencies exceed their authority, according to the post. The New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice was formed in 2006 out of the now-defunct New Jersey Alliance for Informed Choice in Vaccination. It was created partially in response to proposals to mandate flu shots for preschool and two more shots for sixth graders, according to the advocacy groups website. Ultimately, the states health commissioner approved the proposal, making New Jersey the first state to require flu shots for preschoolers. The group was more successful in 2019-2020 when it lobbied against a controversial bill that would have removed religious exemptions as a valid excuse for children to bypass vaccination. The bill failed to muster enough support to pass. More recently, the organization tried to stop legislation that broadens the number of medical experts New Jersey can use for vaccine guidance. Despite backlash from parents rights groups and Republican legislators, the bill gained majority support in the State Legislature and was signed into law by former Gov. Phil Murphy. This time, the advocacy group is opposing changes adopted by the state Department of Health that expand required reporting of vaccinations to the New Jersey Immunization Information System, the states confidential immunization registry. Under the new rules, any health care provider who administers vaccines to children age 17 and under is mandated to enter these vaccines into the state registry. Previously, this was only required for children under the age of 7. Theres also a phased plan for adding adults to the registry. By Jan. 20, 2027, the rule applies for anyone between 18 and 19 years old, and then it increases to anyone 19 and older starting July 19, 2027. Previously, individuals born before Jan. 1, 1998 had to give their provider consent to be part of the state registry. Also of note, the new rules allow private facilities including preschools, K-12 schools, childcare facilities and colleges to impose immunization requirements that exceed state requirements and are consistent with nationally recognized advisory bodies. This takes effect Sept. 1. The New Jersey Department of Health first published the updates on Sept. 15, 2025 and invited residents to submit written comments, either electronically or by regular mail, through Nov. 14, 2025. They received 2,686 comments from the public, ranging from concerns about privacy and parental rights to support for more complete immunization records and data, according to a notice of adoption. Among the submissions were several requests for a public hearing on the proposal. One commenter requested that the department slow down and hold public hearings while another commenter stated a public hearing is absolutely necessary, according to the document. In a written response to the comments, the health department said it provided ample time, notice, means, and opportunity for comments to be submitted on the proposed rulemaking, as evidenced by the number of comments received. Therefore, the Department will not hold a public hearing or extend the comment period for an additional period. Nine days after the new rules were adopted, the New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice and three residents who requested a public hearing filed a notice of appeal. Maria Quigley, one of the plaintiffs in the appeal, said shes concerned the new rules reduce transparency. Theyre expanding collection and reporting without informed consent. Theyre concentrating power in an unelected agency of our state government and theyre essentially taking away our rights, said Quigley, a co-founder of the parental rights advocacy group NJ Stands Up. The group itself is not named as a plaintiff. The appeal argues that the updates are void because neither the Department of Health nor the Public Health Council held a public hearing about them. It also claims that the health commissioner, who signed the rules, has no authority to make the changes in the first place. This appeal is entirely about process and the constitutional separation of powers, said Dana Wefer, an attorney representing the plaintiffs in their appeal. The plaintiffs argue that the State Sanitary Code, which guides public health, was unfairly stripped of its rule-making authority 20 years ago. Wefer said her clients want the Appellate Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey to review the final action of the Department of Health and the Public Health Council, including the Jan. 20 adoption of changes to the State Sanitary Code. They also want to restore the rule-making authority of the Public Health Council to ensure the health commissioner isnt the sole authority with power to make amendments to the State Sanitary Code. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health did not respond to a request for comment. When state officials announced the changes in January, they said they modernize disease reporting and align vaccination standards with current public health best practices. The revisions dont add any new vaccination requirements for school attendance, according to a state press release. New Jersey has had statewide immunization requirements for public and private schools since 1975. When the rules were first adopted, then-Health Commissioner Joanne E. Finley said the new regulations will aid in preventing future outbreaks of immunizable disease, according to a 1975 Star-Ledger article. At the same time, the state made provisions to exempt students for medical or religious reasons. More and more students are skipping vaccines in recent years. During the 2024-25 school year, a record 24,962 kids skipped vaccines for religious reasons, a nearly 25% increase from the previous year. Elizabeths tenants notched a partial victory in an ongoing legal battle with landlords over rent control, with a state judges ruling that they had collected enough valid signatures for a referendum to restore a $20-a-year cap on increases. The court finds that Plaintiffs have failed to sustain their burden of proof to establish their claims contained within the Second Count of the Complaint, Superior Court Judge John Deitch said in his Jan. 31 ruling. That Count is dismissed with prejudice and without costs. The ruling addressed one of three counts in a lawsuit by a coalition of landlords opposed to the Elizabeth City Councils restoration of the decades-old $20 cap in July. Landlords had long argued that the cap is too low, and the council replaced it with a 3% annual limit in 2022, before restoring it last summer in response to public sentiment expressed in the petition drive. Tenant advocates applauded Deitchs recent ruling. We feel vindicated that we faithfully solicited a petition, said Isaac Jimenez, 30, an organizer with the Freelizabeth petition drive the landlords had sought to invalidate. Its validating for the 700 people that signed our petitions, Jimenez added, and for the many more that know that Elizabeth is becoming unaffordable and that we need real renter relief now. The first count in the landlords suit charged that the council violated state law, 40:49-2, requiring public notice seven days prior to voting to rescind the 3% cap and at least 10 days between the votes to introduce the ordinance and the adopt it. The judge agreed, and temporarily blocked the move, allowing the 3% cap to remain in effect pending final resolution of the case. The second count involved the petition issue that resulted in the recent ruling in favor of the tenants, leaving open the possibility that a referendum could be held depending on how the lawsuit and the broader rent control issue plays out. The third charge that the $20 annual cap was too low to fund adequate maintenance of rent-controlled apartments, amounting to an unconstitutional taking of the landlords property. The judge hasnt yet ruled on that count, and an additional hearing may be scheduled depending on factors including whether the landlords, tenants and the council come to some kind of agreement. Renee Steinhagen, the tenants lawyer, said the next move rests with the landlords. Landlords are still challenging the $20 annual rent increase cap, arguing that it is unconstitutional and arbitrary, she said. They can ask the court to rule on that claim, withdraw it, or seek a settlement. She said that if the landlords proceed with the case, the tenants and the city will defend the $20 cap. Otherwise, Steinhagen said, the tenants plan to ask the judge to dismiss the remaining count. Steinhagen and other tenant advocates say they dont expect that the council will take a re-vote to reinstate the $20 cap unless the landlords drop their legal challenge. The Committee of Petitioners says it is preparing to take the issue directly to voters, and make housing affordability and rent control a central issue in the 2026 general midterm election, Steinhagen said. A lawyer for the landlords, Matthew Moench, said the owners are currently reviewing their options. The owners still have substantive challenges remaining as to the arbitrary and unreasonable monetary cap, Moench said, which if enacted would diminish the quality of life for many tenants as building owners would be unable to maintain and improve the buildings subject to the rent-control cap. He added, this putative and burdensome cap will harm the very residents the Committee of the Petitioners claim they are trying to help. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth City Council has the authority to pass an amendment reinstating the $20 cap mindful this time to abide by procedural requirements. If council fails to act, the 3% annual increase would remain in place indefinitely, or pending a referendum to replace it with the old $20 cap. Former City Council President Carlos Cedeno has previously said he and fellow members will not comment or take action until the lawsuit is resolved. Jimenez, the Freelizabeth organizer, said he feels confident moving forward. The $20 rent cap existed in Elizabeth for over 30 years, he said, and we expect to have a good result out of this last one. Freelizabeth campaign organizer Isaac Jimenez applauded a judge's ruling that a petition by his organization for a referendum on local rent control included the required minimum of signatures to be placed on the ballot. Jimenez stood outside the Union Conty courthouse on Feb. 7, 2026, a week after the ruling. Karsten Englander | For NJ Advan Correction: This article initially misidentified the state law that a judge found the Elizabeth City Council violated when voting to rescind a 3% cap on annual rent increases in July. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-NJ and U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-5th Dist. announced Monday they'll reintroduce bills to require three point seats belts and real-time driver background checks in the wake of a fatal 2018 Paramus school bus crash. SL Eight years after his daughter and a teacher were killed in a school bus crash, Joevanny Vargas, father of 10-year-old Miranda Vargas asked why school bus safety legislation hasnt been passed. Weve been trying to pass this law for eight years. I cant understand why, he said at a press conference on Monday to reintroduce Mirandas law. This is common sense, Vargas said. Everyone, Republicans and Democrats, has family and knows what it means to trust their child will come home at end of day. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-NJ and U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-5th Dist., announced theyll reintroduce federal legislation to put three point seat belts in buses and require realtime background checks of bus drivers. The legislation is aimed at preventing tragedies like the 2018 Paramus bus crash that killed Miranda Vargas and teacher Jennifer Williamson. Im sorry, Mr. Vargas, this should have been done years ago, Booker said during a press conference at the West Brook Middle School in Paramus Monday. Our children deserve no less. The crash occurred in May 2018 when the bus driver attempted to make an illegal U-turn on Interstate 80. A dump truck struck the school bus from behind, killing two and injuring more than 40 people who were on a field trip with East Brook Middle School. This is to ensure no other family has to walk the painful walk of the Vargas and Williamson families, Gottheimer said. There is nothing partisan about this. In 2022 and 2024, Gottheimer introduced legislation to require three point lap and shoulder seat belts on school buses nationwide, and added a new bill requiring real time background driving record checks for bus drivers. Mirandas father went to Washington to lobby for the 2022 bill. New Jersey already has such a law, which Gov. Phil Murphy signed in August 2018. But only eight states require any type of school bus seat belts. That means children in 42 other states dont have the same type of seat belts protecting them in a school bus that they would have riding in their familys vehicle, Gottheimer said. Mirandas Law, named in honor of Miranda Vargas, would require notification of school districts and bus companies within 24 hours after a driver is convicted of a serious motor vehicle violation across the nation and includes setting up a national database. That came after the revelation that the bus driver in the I-80 crash, Hudy Muldrow Sr., 79, had received eight speeding tickets. He had his license suspended 14 times between 1975 and 2017, according to state motor vehicle records. The law would allow her life to be a legacy of protection, Mirandas father said. Put politics aside and do what we know is right, pass Mirandas law. Booker called him a humble hero for taking pain and putting it into action. All around the nation there are children riding in vehicles that are not safe, Booker said. We got it done in New Jersey, we have to move forward for our children. The undersigned faculty members of Seton Hall Law School write in our individual capacities to denounce the federal governments sustained campaign of brutality, ongoing violations of civil rights, repeated affronts to human dignity, and complete disregard for the principle that no one is above the law. We condemn these actions whether they take place in our state or others and call upon government officials to stop these abuses immediately and to ensure accountability for those responsible. The federal government is systematically violating core constitutional protections. The government has violated the First Amendment by attacking and seizing peaceful protesters and legal observers. The government has violated the Fourth Amendment by conducting warrantless home raids and arresting and detaining people without probable cause. The government has violated the Fifth Amendment by denying due process of law and detaining individuals based on racial profiling. These and other constitutional protections and core principles of our nation have been disregarded by our federal government. In this statement, we are not debating abstract legal principles. We are calling out well-documented acts of lawlessness by federal officials that have inflicted severe and widespread harm. Protestors have been killed in our streets. People in custody of the federal government have died. We have seen extraordinary cruelty, including an elderly citizen in minimal clothing pulled from his home in subfreezing weather and children detained on their way home from preschool. When asked to account for these actions, the governments response has been dishonest. Senior members of government have misrepresented facts to the public and to the courts. We are particularly disturbed by senior government officials blatantly misrepresenting events to portray victims as criminals. These tactics are hallmarks of authoritarianism and are incompatible with constitutional democracy and our most basic commitments to human dignity. We therefore call on the government to stop these abuses, transparently investigate alleged crimes, and hold accountable every person in the chain of command who is responsible. Finally, we recommit ourselves as lawyers and educators to preserving democratic principles as we bear witness to the governments abuses of power. We will continue to educate our students and our community about constitutional rights, and we will support education, legal observing, pro bono work, and other lawful efforts to curtail further violations. We encourage readers to join us in becoming critically engaged, and to contact their congressional representatives. Each of us, not just legal scholars, has a role in defending our Constitution and democracy. Educate yourself, use your voice, and consider contacting your elected representatives. If you need assistance confirming the name of your representative in Congress, visit congress.gov/members/find-your-member. Robert Boland Timothy P. Glynn Lori A. Nessel Kathleen Boozang Michael Granne Adrian D. Newall Lori Outzs Borgen Jonathan Hafetz David W. Opderbeck Angela C. Carmella Thomas Healy Lara Pennington Elizabeth Carter John V. Jacobi Melanie J. Perez-Vellios Michael Coenen Adam M. Katz Tara Adams Ragone Jenny-Brooke Condon Tracy Kaye Paul Rink John Kip Cornwell Abdul Rehman Khan Neoshia R. Roemer Lissette Diaz Stephen J. Lubben Jon Romberg Doron Dorfman Solangel Maldonado Amy Saji Daniel A. Edelson Andrea McDowell Brian Sheppard Jacob T. Elberg Denis McLaughlin Allison Navy Sigmund At the Gateway Tunnels first completed project site, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill joined union workers in demanding that federal officials comply with a court order and unlock stalled funding. Despite temperatures in the 20s, 200 union workers rallied and said they want to go back to work on the $16 billion Gateway rail tunnel project. They demanded President Donald Trump release federal funds that have been frozen since last October. But the effort to restart work may have hit a roadblock, despite a favorable court ruling on Friday. Federal transportation agencies were ordered by a judge on Feb. 6 to resume reimbursement payments. On Sunday, they filed notice that they are appealing that ruling. Neither USDOT nor Federal Transit Administration officials responded to questions about when the funds would be restored. Sherrill and union officials spoke at the site of a newly completed bridge designed to carry Routes 1 and 9 over the tracks. The structure sits where the new rail tunnels would enter New Jersey in North Bergen. Sherrill, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and union officials vocally demanded restoration of the funding that was committed to in 2024 so they can get back to work. I want you to holler so loud that guy in the White House hears you, fund Gateway now, Schumer said, leading a chant of workers assembled on the idled job site. Work at all five Gateway construction sites shut down Friday after the Gateway Development Commission (GDC) ran out of money when federal officials suspended reimbursement payments under a rule that took effect Oct. 1. GDC officials said they have complied with the rule and payments havent resumed. Since Oct. 1, construction had been funded using a GDC line of credit. Sherrill reiterated that shed continue the Gateway funding fight she started as a congresswoman. Ill be the tunnel obsessed governor. I wont rest until you guys are back at work, she said. I know what it means to your families. The Gateway is an important project to families throughout the state, she told workers. What youre doing is making sure moms and dads can get home in time to pick up their kids from daycare, youre making sure they get home in time to have dinner with their families, she said. So, youre not just working for your families, youre working for all our families. While Sherrill didnt mention Fridays court order or appeal, union leaders did. This is a vendetta, said Manuel Amador Jr, Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) local 472 business manager. Were not pawns in this chess game of politics. Amador said the project was on time and on budget until Fridays shut down. Its a critical piece of infrastructure. $1 billion has already been committed and we have a tunnel boring machine sitting behind us, he said. This is a waste of taxpayers money. Others blamed Trump directly for the freeze. According to administration spokespeople, funding is being held up until Democrats agree to full funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Work stopped because of one man, Donald Trump, said Brent Booker, LIUNA general president. Donald Trump has the power to release the funds for Gateway, weve been talking to him for months to keep us working, Booker said. Hed rather negotiate about naming an airport and train station for himself. Trumps administration proposed a deal last month to Schumer to unfreeze the money if Democrats agreed to support renaming New York Citys Penn Station and Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, D.C., after Trump, according to multiple reports. Schumer rejected the proposal, saying he didnt have the power, according to the reports, which cited anonymous sources. Other union speakers said the funding freeze ran contrary to the Build Back America Better platform he campaigned on. On Friday, I handed out layoff checks to good laborers, said Daniel Horvath of local 472. We want to get up and go to work every day. New Jersey and New York sued the Trump administration on Feb. 3 for freezing Gateway Tunnel funding, contending it will put taxpayers on the hook for millions of dollars in added costs. Officials estimated that delays in resuming work could cost $15 million to $20 million a month and also risk a brain drain of specialized construction workers who could take jobs on other projects. The states action came one day after the Gateway Development Commission which is overseeing tunnel construction filed a lawsuit on Feb. 2. Both the state and the commission contend the federal government breached contracts it signed in 2024. An Ocean County man who admitted traveling to Norway to have sex with a teenager was sentenced Monday to six years in prison, federal prosecutors said. Jacob Bauer, 29, of Toms River, previously pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign place, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey. From Dec. 1 to Dec. 10, 2023, Bauer, then 27 years old, traveled from the United States to Norway to engage in sexual activity with the 14-year-old girl in a hotel, the office said. After returning to the United States, Bauer communicated with the girl and bragged to others about his sexual activities, all while acknowledging the fact that the girl was underage, investigators said. Members of the Discord community where he was active posted his personal information when they discovered his sexual activities with a minor, authorities said. This helped lead to his arrest. By Sam Delgado When New Jersey legalized cannabis, it made a big decision and, to its credit, a responsible one. But legalization alone doesnt answer the questions that hit real workplaces every day: How do we keep people safe? How do we treat workers fairly? How do we separate lawful off duty use from on-the-job impairment? For too long, employers and workers have been stuck in a gray area. That gray fuels mistrust, inconsistent discipline, and unnecessary litigation. It also undermines workplace safety. That was never the goal of legalization. So, lets start with something that doesnt get said enough in Trenton: thank you. State legislators deserve real credit for recently revising New Jerseys cannabis law in Bill S4847 with smart, targeted amendments that bring clarity and fairness to the workplace. These werent symbolic gestures or ideological statements. They were practical fixes designed to make the law work in the real world. Im a Jersey guy, and also a United States Marine. One of the first lessons drilled into you in the Marines is simple: the job isnt done when the order is written, its done when the mission is complete. Ambiguity creates risk. Clarity saves lives and livelihoods. That lesson applies directly here. A positive cannabis test does not prove impairment at work. Cannabis metabolites can remain in someones system long after lawful, off-duty use. Treating a test result as proof of impairment isnt just unfair, it contradicts the 2021 CREAMM Act and invites litigation. No one wants a forklift operator, lab technician, or bus driver working impaired. At the same time, no worker should lose a job based on stigma or outdated assumptions. That balance matters. Thats why the law envisioned the Workplace Impairment Recognition Evaluator (WIRE): a trained team member focused on observable behavior, documented facts, and job-related indicators, not guesswork or metabolites alone. The original statute used the word expert, and that single word created real legal problems. In courtrooms, expert carries heavy baggage. It draws credential challenges and evidentiary fights that have nothing to do with routine workplace safety decisions. Changing that term to evaluator was a disciplined, common-sense correction that preserved the function while removing unnecessary legal risk. Instead of the Police Training Commission, lawmakers also moved WIRE into the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, where it belongs. WIRE is not a law-enforcement program. It is a workplace safety and evaluation function that cuts across every industry. Labor already runs training, compliance assistance, and workplace safety programs statewide, and the required training course registration fees would fully self-fund and raise state revenue for a comprehensive approach to helping employers and employees. That alignment matters. The Legislature also clarified the Cannabis Regulatory Commissions authority to approve and designate WIRE training providers. That certainty is essential. Standards dont work without training, and training doesnt scale without clarity about who is authorized and what qualifies. The Legislature did its job. Now its time for the agencies to do theirs. The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission must publish final WIRE rules, so employers and workers have one clear statewide standard. The New Jersey Department of Labor must operationalize training pathways and help employers implement the system without confusion. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance should guide carriers writing workers compensation, EPL, and general liability policies in New Jersey to align underwriting and risk models with WIRE-based training, driving adoption of the state required DOL training. This thoughtful and proactive approach directly mitigates these claim categories that together account for a large portion of insurer payout costs each year. WIRE is not a gotcha. It is due process. It protects workers from arbitrary discipline and gives employers a defensible standard when safety is on the line. We dont punish people for legal behavior on their own time. We hold people accountable for performance and safety on company time. Thats fairness. Thats common sense. Thats Jersey. The law has been fixed. Now its time to finish the mission. Samuel (Sam) Delgado is the former vice chair of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission. He is founder and principal of D&S Government Affairs. In Is There a Doctor in the House?, investigative reporter Karin Price Mueller examined New Jerseys growing fight over APN (advanced practice nurse) autonomy and physiciancollaboration rules. That debate is now at the center of the Legislatures consideration of S2996. Marcel Kaganovskaya, APN, and Dr. Naveen Ahuja outline the case for and against expanding independent practice. Pro: When APNs need a contract to treat patients, access collapses By Marcel Kaganovskaya Senate Bill S2996 offers a clear and responsible path to sustain New Jerseys overburdened health care system. The states emergency departments are already stretched to the breaking point. Average emergency room visits now exceed three hours among the longest wait times in the nation. Each emergency department visit costs New Jersey patients an average of $3,750, nearly three times the national average, even though research consistently shows that up to 60% of emergency room visits are nonurgent and preventable with timely access to primary and mental health care. As noted in Karin Price Muellers article, Is There a Doctor in the House?, Executive Order 415 threatens to make a strained system even more fragile. By forcing advanced practice nurses, or APNs, to relinquish their ability to practice autonomously unless they secure a contractual collaborating physician, the order does nothing to improve patient safety while dramatically increasing costs, reducing access and accelerating the exodus of experienced clinicians out of state. To understand the impact, it is important to be clear about what autonomous APN practice looks like in New Jersey. For years long before the pandemic APNs have safely provided autonomous outpatient care in primary and mental health settings. The socalled collaborating physician requirement has never meant that a physician is physically present, supervising care or co-managing patients. These physicians are not in the exam room. They are not seeing the patient. They do not provide realtime clinical oversight. They are simply names on a contract. Those names now cost APNs anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month for the privilege of continuing to care for patients they already manage safely and autonomously. This arrangement does not enhance care, improve outcomes or expand access. It merely adds cost. That is not collaboration. It is a paytopractice system. Unsurprisingly, some physicians have recognized this requirement as a lucrative business model. I personally know of a psychiatrist who earns more than $100,000 annually simply by supervising more than 50 APNs across the state, despite never being present in their practices, never directly involved in patient care and sometimes being out of the country. That revenue is not tied to outcomes, access or quality. It is tied to paperwork. The downstream consequences of Executive Order 415 extend far beyond individual practices. If even a modest number of patients lose access to their autonomous APN providers, the spillover into emergency departments will be immediate and costly. Based on conservative estimates from a recent survey of New Jersey APNs many of whom have been providing autonomous, communitybased care for more than six years patients who lose routine access to medication management and followup care could generate millions of additional emergency department visits annually and billions in avoidable health care costs. These costs do not disappear. They are absorbed by taxpayers, hospitals and families, many of whom are already struggling to navigate a fragmented health care system. The burden falls hardest on Medicare and Medicaid patients. Research consistently shows that physician practices are less likely to accept these populations, while APNs are significantly more likely to serve them. In primary care and mental health especially, APNs are often the frontline and sometimes the only providers willing to care for these underserved communities. As an APN, I take pride in caring for these patients. I refuse to accept a system where bureaucratic barriers, rather than clinical judgment, determine whether vulnerable individuals receive care. APNs take the same oath to do no harm as our physician colleagues. Limiting access to autonomous providers does cause harm by delaying care and closing doors for patients who already face barriers. When APN practices close or scale back because physician contracts become unaffordable, patients do not magically find another provider. They wait months. Their conditions worsen. They end up in emergency rooms, crisis centers or without care at all. A recent survey of New Jersey APNs confirms this trajectory. Many respondents report that Executive Order 415 has already forced them to reduce patient panels, delay new patient appointments or seriously consider closing their practices. Others are exploring relocation to neighboring states such as New York, where autonomous practice is respected and clinicians are not required to pay thousands of dollars to practice. The question is no longer whether APNs are safe or capable. Decades of evidence have settled that debate. The real question is whether New Jersey will continue to support an outdated, costly system that prioritizes paperwork over patients or whether it will choose access, affordability and common sense. Marcel Kaganovskaya, a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and a licensed advanced practice nurse (APN), is executive director of the Society of Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses (SPAPN) based in Montclair. *** Jenn Plescia, left, a board-certified nurse practitioner and owner of IVs by the Seas prepares to administer an IV drip as she demonstrate the process for NJ.com. IVs by the Seas is located in Point Pleasant New Jersey. Friday, January 23, 2026. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media Con: When autonomy shifts care to med spas, patients lose By Naveen Ahuja The investigative piece Is There a Doctor in the House? recently highlighted what we have all seen since the pandemic: a surge in wellness centers and med spas statewide. It shows how independent practice authority is drawing advanced practice nurses, or APNs, away from essential care and into elective, cashbased medical spas and the risks involved when these procedures occur without physician oversight. The med spas featured are prime examples; both were opened by APNs who left primary care and emergency medicine under a temporary COVID order. This experience was a game changer, showing policymakers which specialties APNs would choose and which they would abandon if independent practice were made permanent. In his final days in office, Gov. Phil Murphy formally ended the COVID state of emergency, rescinding remaining pandemicera waivers including Executive Order 112 effective Feb. 16. The purpose of Executive Order 112 was narrow and temporary. It relieved physicians of certain statutory oversight of APNs during an unprecedented public health emergency so they could focus on emergency and critical patients in hospitals. It was never intended to permanently alter health care delivery or scopeofpractice laws, nor was it anticipated to extend into communitybased practice. While some say APNs have been practicing independently since 2020, in reality the EO waiver of physician collaboration or joint protocols was never broadly implemented in hospitals or practice settings. During the height of the pandemic, hospitals relied on more not less clinical collaboration. Across New Jersey, APNs and physicians continued working together in teambased care models. However, some APNs viewed the temporary waiver as a business opportunity and left hospital employment, primary care, anesthesia and other essential specialties to open cashbased aesthetic practices medical spas offering Botox, fillers, IV hydration, laser treatments and weightloss prescriptions, often taking RNs with them. The order did not anticipate APNs and RNs leaving essential health care roles at a time when access was already strained, nor the downstream effects on hospital staffing and patient access. Now, those same APNs are asking the Legislature to fasttrack S2996 to grant permanent independent practice authority and protect their businesses and clients from the consequences of decisions made under a temporary order. That framing alone should raise concerns. This experience exposes a fundamental flaw in the access to care argument for APN independent practice authority. Realworld evidence shows that when granted autonomy, APNs left highacuity hospital specialties and primary care for elective, cashbased aesthetic services a shift driven by market incentives, not patientaccess needs. This is not limited to New Jersey. Despite Florida law restricting APN independent practice to primary care, a 2025 peerreviewed, NIHindexed study of 328 autonomously practicing nurse practitioners found that more than 60% were working in wellness, cosmetic, aesthetic, IV hydration and other cashbased practices. New Jersey has not collected comparable data on how many APNs practiced without physician collaboration after 2020 or in what specialties. Scopeofpractice laws exist to protect patients. Claims that no one was harmed during the past several years are unprovable given the lack of comprehensive data and reporting. Harm is not limited to malpractice; it includes overprescribing, unnecessary testing, excessive referrals, delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes when APN training does not match patient complexity. Plastic surgeons increasingly must correct complications from nonphysician aesthetic settings including misplaced Botox, poorly injected fillers, laser burns, threadlift issues and scarring or contour problems caused by inexperienced providers. The Legislature and the governor are now being asked to act quickly to save these businesses before Feb. 16. We strongly urge Trenton not to convert a temporary emergency waiver into permanent law especially when evidence shows it may divert care from patients who need it most. Naveen Ahuja, MD, is president of New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons based in Bordentown. Calling your elected representative in the state Assembly or Senate is the most effective way to influence policy. To find your state Assembly member and Senator to voice your position, go to the New Jersey Legislature websites Legislative Roster. The National Governors Associations annual White House summit will be missing at least two Democratic state leaders who were snubbed by President Donald Trump. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis were the only governors not invited to a bipartisan dinner at the White House scheduled for later this month. Both men have clashed with the Trump administration, and now neither will attend what has long been a bipartisan gathering of all 50 governors. The New York Times also reported that Trump will host another gathering that includes only the 26 Republican governors. In an email sent to its members and obtained by The Times, the National Governors Association (NGA) wrote that Trump has decided to only invite Republican governors. N.G.A. leadership has decided that this will not be an N.G.A. event, and no N.G.A. resources will be used to support transportation for this activity, the email read. In a statement, NGA interim CEO Brandon Tatum criticized the White House for excluding Democratic leaders and making the winter meeting a partisan occasion this year. To disinvite individual governors to the White House sessions undermines an important opportunity for federal-state collaboration, Tatum said. At this moment in our nations history, it is critical that institutions continue to stand for unity, dignity, and constructive engagement. Traditionally the White House has played a role in fostering these moments during NGAs annual meeting. This year, they will not. Moore, who serves as vice chairman of the NGA, blasted Trumps decision to exclude him from this years winter summit. My peers, both Democrats and Republicans, selected me to serve as the Vice Chair of the NGA, another reason why its hard not to see this decision as another example of blatant disrespect and a snub to the spirit of bipartisan federal-state partnership, Moore wrote on X. Moore has publicly criticized Trump on a range of issues, including the presidents threat to deploy the National Guard in Baltimore and the administrations immigration policies. Trump has previously referred to Baltimore as a hellhole. As the nations only Black governor, I cant ignore that being singled out for exclusion from this bipartisan tradition carries an added weight whether that was the intent or not," Moore said. Like Moore, Polis has clashed repeatedly in recent months with Trump, most notably over the governors refusal to pardon Tina Peters, a convicted election denier and prominent supporter of the president. The tensions escalated in December, when Trump vetoed a pipeline project intended to deliver clean drinking water to Colorados eastern plains and said that Polis should rot in Hell. The Trump administration that month also moved to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, claiming it was a hub for federal climate alarmism. In the wake of Trumps newest action against Polis, a spokesman for the governor said the presidents decision to exclude Polis from the NGA summit was disappointing. Gov. Polis has always been willing to work with anyone across the political spectrum who wants to help work on the hardest problems facing Colorado and America, regardless of party or who occupies the White House, spokesman Eric Maruyama said in a statement. A slate of MAGA supporters and allies are calling out former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon over mentions of his name in the latest batch of Jeffrey Epstein files. While the right-wing influencer had texted the late convicted sex offender in the days leading up to Epsteins arrest in July 2019, a recent drop of text messages reveal that Bannon had a close personal relationship with Epstein, according to CNN. Records released by the Department of Justice and House Oversight Committee late last month found that Epstein had attempted to help Bannon build a global populist movement. In a steady series of text messages, the two also arranged plans to meet on July 7, 2019, in New York, just after Epstein returned from Europe. All canceled, Epstein later wrote on July 6 of that year, according to one document of the nearly 3.5 million pages of investigative files released on the DOJs website since December. Epstein was arrested at that time and later charged with sex trafficking minors. The host of the popular War Room podcast has not been accused of or charged with any wrongdoing in connection to Epsteins crimes. Tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has appeared to have patched his relationship with President Donald Trump, took to X on Monday to describe Bannon as evil. His response came after internet personality Mario Nawfal accused Trumps former strategist of more than just socializing with Epstein. Bannon is evil https://t.co/pQOO0hlaf2 Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 9, 2026 Nawfal cited the report for CNN, pointing to how Epstein texted Bannon about strategy in 2018 and the funding of Bannons plans for a new center-right coalition. Take no heat re me, Epstein wrote in August of that year, the files show. Not worth it for the moment. In a separate post, Nawfal added: You cant make this up. The anti-elite crusader taking advice from the most elite pedophile on Earth. Draining the swamp or whatever. Roger Stone, one of Donald Trumps closest political advisers, separately slammed Bannon with a baseless claim about sulfuric acid, without providing any evidence: The same thing Steve Bannon used to dissolve his victims in the bathtub of the home he rented in DC. Fox News host Mark Levin added that it is funny how Bannons fellow antisemites and isolationists have not demanded that HE come clean about his well-established, video-taped relationship with Epstein. Brenden Dilley, a pro-Trump influencer, argued that some people have remained all silent about Bannons overt friendship and working relationship with Epstein. You know who you are, Dilley said in a post. Youre all cowards. You shun me because of my language but you have ZERO integrity. MAGA ally Dinesh DSouza joked that Bannon is the man of the people, adding a previous story from The Hollywood Reporter that he was planning to produce a redemptive documentary for Epstein. With a single picture Steve Bannon loses all credibility, Natalie F. Danelishen, a right-wing commentator, posted. Evil s---. The fury comes as Epstein co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell invoked the 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination during a House Oversight Committee deposition on Monday. An attorney for Maxwell later said she is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by Trump. Maxwell denied seeing anything inappropriate during an interview last year with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. She was then moved to a lower-security prison facility in Texas in the days following questioning. https://chinadigitaltimes.net/2024/12/jimmy-lai-did-not-ask-the-u-s-to-nuke-china/ SCHANZER: [] What are these conversations? I mean, what happens in these conversations? Are you getting a sense that America is ready to commit to supporting Hong Kong? Is this a work in progress? LAI: Well, I think they all agree that Hong Kong is fighting a war of the same values as you. It means that were fighting your war in your enemy camp. We need your support. Without the support, we wont have the wherewithal morally and materially to really persist this resistance. You know, your support is very important. Thats why I asked Mr. Pompeo and Vice President. I said, Look, say something to encourage the Hong Kong people, especially young people. Its like when Kennedy went to Berlin, he said that Im a Berliner. How much confidence and hope he gave to the Berliner to face the threat of Soviet Union at the time. We need the same thing. We need the support. We need the confidence. We need the hope. We need to know that America is behind us. By backing us, the America also sowing to the will of their moral authority because we are the only place in China, a tiny island in China, which is sharing your values, which is fighting the same war you have with China. If we think that were starting a cold war with China today, a cold war thats a war of competing values, and were on your side sacrificing our life, our freedom, everything we have, fighting this war in the frontier for you, should you support us? This is something that America has to know, not only supporting us, but use your moral authority in this cold war to win this war in the beginning because they have nothing. Its like they are going to the battle without any weapon, and you have the nuclear weapon. You can finish them in a minute. [Source] - " "! , ! , , . Navantia UK has announced today, Monday 9 February, it will recruit 20 apprentices at its Appledore shipyard in Devon in 2026, as part of a wider plan to hire 500 apprentices across the UK by 2030. The company, which acquired Harland & Wolff last year, said the move aims to develop a new generation of industrial skills in shipbuilding, engineering and offshore energy. The announcement comes on the first day of National Apprenticeships Week. Navantia leads the Ships and Submarines business, designing and building state-of-the-art frigates, patrol vessels, and AIP submarines. The UK branch is also involved in commercial shipbuilding, ship repair, and supplying the offshore energy industry. Apprenticeships at Appledore will include roles in welding, pipe fitting, computer aided design and administration. The company offers both Level 2 and Level 3 training, with apprentices receiving guidance from qualified instructors. Helen McTockell, Apprenticeship and Training Manager at Navantia UK, said: Since our acquisition of Harland & Wolff, weve made apprenticeships a top priority. Navantia UK is establishing itself as a new force in British industry and to do that, were looking for the very best of talent across the country. Apprentices can look forward to embarking on promising careers in highly skilled roles, with support and backing from qualified instructors. Were proud to be one of the UKs top apprenticeship employers and this year, well be taking our recruitment to a new level. The 20 apprentices at Appledore are part of a wider recruitment programme in 2026 that will see 90 apprentices hired across Navantia UKs shipyards. Of these, 35 are likely to join Harland & Wolff in Belfast, 20 at Methil in Fife, and 15 at Arnish on the Isle of Lewis. Existing apprentices say the scheme offers practical, hands-on experience. Orson Robinson, a fabrication apprentice in Appledore, said: I enjoy the hands-on approach and problem solving involved in the role, and Ive gained experience reading complex drawings. I chose an apprenticeship to find a career in something I enjoy, and the experience has been challenging but very rewarding. Daniel Rose added: Every day is different. I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted a long-term career with progression, which Navantia offers, and Ive found it great so far with plenty to learn and supportive colleagues. Shane Ford said: I chose Appledore because I heard it was a new era down at the shipyard and Id heard good things about it. My first impression was that the team were very welcoming to everyone of us. Im looking forward to learning a trade and carrying that into further qualifications in fabrication. I hope to be a key part of the shipyards future. Navantia UK currently holds a 1.6 billion contract to build three Fleet Solid Support ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, which will deliver vital supplies to Royal Navy warships at sea. The company is also investing 115 million across its UK shipyards to modernise facilities, including installing robotic plasma cutting systems, new lifting cranes, building refurbishments and expansion, and automated quality control processes. The first steel for the FSS programme was cut at Appledore in December, and an 8 million barge is under construction in Methil to transport ship blocks between England and Northern Ireland. By expanding its apprenticeship programme across four sites in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, Navantia UK says it is committed to sustaining and growing the UKs industrial skills base while supporting future shipbuilding and offshore energy projects. Campaigners are hoping developers are having second thoughts about siting one of the largest solar farms in the UK at Holsworthy Beacon after the project was paused. Beacon Solar Ltd has withdrawn its scheme from the Planning Inspectorates pre-application service and placed consultation on hold. The company, part of Galileo Empower UK, says the proposed farm, which would span across four miles of Devon farmland, is undergoing further assessment in terms of its layout, scale and detailed design. Steve Boulton, who is behind the Stop Beacon Solar campaign, said the news was encouraging but it also presented so much uncertainty for residents whose homes would be surrounded by solar panels if the scheme went ahead. This could reappear at any time. I find it strange that the company does not have all the technical assessments done despite being at this for 18 months. I think the lack of grid connection could be a factor. I hope they are having second thoughts. At over 100 megawatts the Beacon Solar Project would count as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) and would be decided by the government. Planning authorities, including Torridge District Council and the six parish councils, would only be consultees. Mr Boulton said no-one could sell their houses while all this was going on. There is no hope of selling anything, as soon as someone sees this plan in the background the seller has not got a hope in hell. At a public meeting in October 2025 hosted by the countryside charity CPRE and attended by Torridge and Tavistock Conservative MP Geoffrey Cox and hundreds of local residents, the community was urged to get together a battle fund to fight the proposals. Mr Boulton said: We will keep fundraising to fight this and to do the ecology studies we need to do. Its early days, we have a few thousand pounds and events in the pipeline so its full steam ahead on the fundraising. He said if the solar farm didnt go ahead the money would be allocated for similar campaigns by countryside protection charities. The fighting fund and petition is being organised by the CPRE. The organisations chairman Steve Crowther said, We are pleased to see that Beacon Solar have withdrawn their application for a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project a gigantic 2,700-acre solar farm which would produce no energy for more than a decade across the landscape at Holsworthy. We hope that they have noted the reaction from thousands of residents of the area and members of the wider public who cherish this landscape; and will now redirect their investment into brownfield or rooftop renewable energy projects. If all the developers now eyeing up our green fields would do that, we could exceed the governments solar targets for 2050 without ruining landscapes and taking millions of pounds worth of food production out of our economy. We will watch very closely what this developer a Swiss-based group with many fingers in the renewables pie does next. And we will be ready and waiting if they come this way again. He urged Devonians to keep signing and circulating the petition, at devoncpre.org.uk, to help us defend Devons unique landscape assets from mega-solar speculators. A spokesperson on behalf of Beacon Solar Project said: Following the collection of environmental and technical data over the last 18 months, the proposed Beacon Solar farm is undergoing further assessment in terms of its layout, scale and detailed design. While this process is ongoing, there will be a pause to the consultation process and as such the project has been withdrawn from the NSIP process. Further updates will be issued in due course following the completion of the various technical assessments. The project team says its aim is to contribute to the UKs net-zero targets and improve energy security by generating renewable electricity at scale. With AI able to produce all sorts of crazy videos these days, its not hard to understand why most people would label a clip of a goldfish swimming around without a head as fake. But as crazy as that premise sounds, the video is not only real, but backed by science and anatomy. In late January, a goldfish owner in China uploaded a video of one of his fish swimming in a tank with a big hole where its head should have been. They mentioned that the fish had been in that terrible condition for days but continued to swim without a care in the world, despite losing its eyes, mouth, and part of its brain. Asked how the goldfish had wound up in that condition, the owner wrote that the tissue on its head had become necrotic, most likely due to an infection or the poor quality of the water. As pieces of tissue began to die, the other fish started pecking on the sick one, exposing more tissue and causing it to die, resulting in a vicious cycle that eventually rendered the poor animal headless. So how did the goldfish survive without most of its head, let alone continue to swim in the tank? Well, apparently, it has a lot to do with the anatomical structure of the fish. Unlike humans and most other mammals, which have the brain in the shape of a concentrated mass, the goldfish brain has a more linear structure, extending from the head well into its body. The front part of a fishs brain handles higher-level functions like smell, memory, and visual processing, while the brainstem, the most crucial part for sustaining life, is located in the body, near the connection to the spinal cord. As long as the brainstem remains intact, the fish can continue to breathe through its gills and maintain blood circulation. Survival is one thing, but the fish in the video is swimming normally and appears to avoid collision with the fish tank walls. Apparently, swimming doesnt require constant commands from the brain; instead, its generated by automated neural networks in the spinal cord, so this ability is not affected by the loss of the head. Fish also have a network of pressure sensors along both sides of their bodies, which act as a biological sonar, allowing them to avoid obstacles in their way even without eyes. According to the owner, the headless fish survived for about two weeks before succumbing to its horrific injuries, although technically, it died of organ failure caused by the freshwater in the tank. Freshwater fish constantly face osmotic pressure because the salt concentration inside their bodies is higher than the water in their environment. Normally, skin and scales help limit water ingress, while their kidneys eliminate excess water. However, with a large wound on its head, freshwater continuously flooded into the bloodstream, diluting fluids and disrupting electrolyte balance. Eventually, the fish died from a severe electrolyte imbalance. Chinese news outlets covering this unusual story described it as a clear demonstration of the resilience of basic survival mechanisms in fish. Modern drones are efficient and versatile, but Moscow-based startup Neiry believes pigeons are superior because of their greater range, endurance, and ability to access hard-to-reach locations. They dont require batteries, can fly in different weather conditions, and they are easily replaceable. But how does one control a pigeon as they would a drone? Neiry claims to have developed brain implants that allow its staff to remotely control the birds, effectively turning them into biodrones. Small electrodes are inserted into the birds brain through its skull and connected to a stimulator mounted on its head. The birds are also equipped with a solar backpack that houses a controller and other electronics, as well as a chest-mounted camera for surveillance purposes. In a press release, Neiry explained that the controller receives a pre-loaded flight task similar to those used in aerial drones, while the stimulator sends impulses that make the birds turn left or right, with positioning provided by GPS and other navigation methods. Neiry claims that its method requires no prior conditioning of the birds, as any animal becomes radio-controllable after the implantation operation. The startups surgeons use a stereotactic setup to place electrodes accurately in the brain, which should guarantee 100% survivability. Although it has yet to offer its cyborg pigeons commercially, the Russian company compared the cost of creating a biodrone to that of building an unmanned aerial vehicle, with the added bonus that a pigeon can fly up to 300 miles per day without requiring a battery recharge, and can operate in restricted airspace. According to Neiry founder Alexander Panov, pigeons are just the start of the companys PJN-1 project. Virtually any bird can be implanted and controlled remotely. Right now, the solution works on pigeons, but any bird can be a carrier, Panov said. To carry more payload, we plan to use ravens for monitoring coastal facilitiesseagulls, and for large sea areasalbatrosses. Neiry claims that the biodrones could be used in a variety of situations, from monitoring infrastructure and inspecting industrial sites to assisting humans in rescue missions. No mention of covert surveillance and military use, but experts fear that, should the drones work as advertised, Putins regime would be all over them. However, we dont have a lot to go by, right now, and, for all we know, Neirys PJN-1 project could be a lot less impressive than it sounds. After all, weve seen plenty of Russian tech failures in the past. When it opened in 2016, the Guangzhou CTF Financial Centre became the tallest building in the Chinese metropolis. It stretched 530 meters towards the sky, and featured 111 floors above ground and five below ground. But all people could talk about was the two super-fast Hitachi elevators capable of transporting passengers from the ground to the 95th floor in just 43 seconds. Hitachi installed a total of 95 elevators in the Guangzhou skyscraper, including 28 double-decker cars, 13 high-speed elevators, and 52 low and medium-speed elevators, but it was the two express elevators that would end up snatching the title of worlds fastest elevators that captured peoples imagination. The worlds fastest elevators lived up to the hype, reaching a top speed of up to 1,200 m/min (3,937 ft/min, or 44.7 mph/72 km/h). The previous record holder was a Toshiba elevator installed in the iconic Taipei 101 tower capable of reaching a top speed of 38 mph (61 km/h). How did Hitachi create the worlds fastest elevators? Well, it was no walk in the park, as there were many issues to consider in order to ensure that these technological wonders were both fast and safe for passengers. To reach breakneck speeds, the elevators rely on thin-profile, permanent magnet synchronous motors and compact traction machines that make the lifting system lighter. The elevator cars are shaped like aerodynamic capsules to reduce wind resistance. But there is more to these elevators than speed. When designing them, engineers needed to account for problems like emergency braking. These impressive elevators are equipped with special brake pads designed to endure temperatures of up to 300C (572F) caused by the extreme friction of stopping a car moving at extreme speeds. The Guangzhou CTF Financial Centre elevators are equipped with active guide rollers that detect even the slightest vibration in the rails and use motors to shift the elevator car in the opposite direction, canceling out any shaking. Going up so fast would normally cause users ears to explode due to the rapid altitude change, but these elevators have pressurized elevator cars and an automated system that actively adjusts air pressure, helping passengers to become acclimated during their 43-second ride. BGR Government Affairs has a $1M contract to provide strategic guidance and PR representation to the Republic of Guinea. That West African nation boasts of the worlds biggest bauxite reserves and untapped iron ore deposits. BGR reports to Bouna Sylla, who last month was re-appointed to lead the Ministry of Mines & Geology. Scott Eisner, a principal in BGRs international & trade practice, leads the push for Guinea. Prior to BGR, he served as president of the US-Africa Business Council and senior VP at the US Chamber of Commerce. Lester Munson, head of BGRs international & trade group supports Eisner. During the Bush II administration, Munson worked at the U.S. Agency for International Development and helped implement the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. BGRs one-year $85K monthly contract went into effect Jan. 16. The New York Post reported on Feb. 8 that Guinea has jailed two American pilots over the last six years for violating its airspace for a fuel stop. They have asked the Trump administration to help secure their release. The pilots were flying a Brazilian family from Suriname to Dubai when they landed at Ahmed Sekou Toure International Airport, which is in Guineas capital city of Conakry. Not a Subscriber? Join O'Dwyer's & Get RFP Access Stop wasting time tracking down RFPs. O'Dwyer's connects you with organizations looking for PR firms & services. Get new business with O'Dwyer's! Join O'Dwyer's OFFALY is positioning itself at the forefront of Irelands clean energy transformation. With a rapidly expanding renewable energy pipeline and national recognition for green energy leadership, the county is now preparing to showcase how the Midlands can anchor a new generation of sustainable, high value industry. The Offaly Green Energy Conference takes place on Wednesday, February 25 at the Tullamore Court Hotel (Eircode R35 D406). The event brings together national and international leaders to explore how Offaly and the wider Midlands can attract high value, energy intensive sectors such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, precision engineering and data centres. These industries require coordinated national infrastructure and co-location with renewable energy resources. Offaly is rapidly emerging as one of Irelands most dynamic clean energy counties, ranking among the top three counties for renewable energy generation and battery storage. With more than 25 largescale renewable projects already operational or in development, the county is poised to deliver between 1.5GW and 2GW of green power a major contribution to Irelands 2030 national targets for onshore wind, solar and battery storage. Offalys expanding renewable pipeline is attracting strong interest from major energy users, supported by the Governments Large Energy Users Action Plan and the Economic Assessment of Green Energy Parks Report (GEPR). The GEPR identifies Offaly as one of the most suitable locations in the State for the development of co located green powered industry clusters. The countys existing energy infrastructure, strong grid links, high quality road and rail connectivity, and strategic proximity to Dublin make it a compelling, cost competitive location for future sustainable industry. READ NEXT:Twenty-seven nominated for Person of the Year and Unsung Hero of the Year 2025 Years of collaboration between industry, academia and regional stakeholders are now translating into real opportunities for largescale energy users to integrate directly with indigenous renewables. Offaly is also strategically located along the proposed River Shannon pipeline, offering future investors access to water, grid capacity and serviced industrial land the essential ingredients for next generation industry. Speakers from EirGrid, SSE Renewables, Bord na Mona, RPS Tetra Tech and Offaly County Council will examine Offalys clean energy transition and the countys growing role in Irelands energy future. Panel discussions featuring IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Amazon Web Services, Statkraft, Lumcloon Energy and others will examine the development pipeline, future infrastructure needs and the rising interest from large energy users seeking sustainable, secure and cost competitive locations. Why Attend Attendees will gain practical insights from leading renewable energy developers and international innovators, while also hearing directly from major energy users such as Amazon Web Services on the infrastructure and location factors influencing their investment choices. The conference will examine how co-located industry clusters can create new commercial opportunities and drive economic growth across the Midlands. It also provides a valuable platform for building strategic connections with investors, developers, policymakers and supply-chain partners. Who Should Attend The conference is designed for renewable energy developers, construction and engineering specialists, local authorities, enterprise and economic development teams, community benefit fund managers, climate and energy consultants, third-level researchers, Sustainable Energy Communities, skills and training providers, and enterprise support agencies. The conference is free to attend, but registration is essential. Register at: localenterprise.ie/offaly READ NEXT: Important Teagasc forestry advisory clinic for Tullamore At a World Wetlands Day celebration in Clara, organised by the Brosna River Trust and hosted by Clara Heritage Society, serious concerns were raised about threats facing some of Irelands most significant sacred and wetland landscapes, most notably the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise and the River Shannon Callows, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Anna Orman of the Offaly Industrial Heritage Conservation Network outlined the potentially damaging implications of a proposed Bord na Mona/SSE Renewables wind farm at Drumlosh, Cornafulla Bog. She explained that the development would be located just over a mile from the ancient site and would border the Shannon Callows on three sides for approximately five kilometres. She stressed that the proposal could pose a serious risk to the integrity of both Clonmacnoise, a designated National Monument of international significance, and the River Shannon Callows SAC, which is a breeding ground for whooper swans. The project will undergo a pre-planning consultation with An Coimisiun Pleanala to determine whether it qualifies as Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID). Energy infrastructure is classified as SID if it includes a wind farm with more than 25 turbines or a total output exceeding 50 megawatts. Although the public is notified of pre-planning consultations, they are not permitted to participate in these discussions. If classified as SID, the planning application is submitted directly to An Coimisiun Pleanala rather than to the local authority. This information was met with widespread dismay. Many in attendance expressed shock and concern that a development could be contemplated which might negatively impact such a treasured and irreplaceable national heritage site. READ NEXT: Twenty-seven nominated for Person of the Year and Unsung Hero of the Year 2025 In contrast, Tara McGrath spoke about the successful campaign in 1984 that led to Clara Bog being designated as a Special Area of Conservation. She highlighted how the collective efforts of the local community, supportive politicians, academics, and environmental experts ultimately resulted in the protection of one of Europes finest remaining examples of a raised bog. Her contribution demonstrated the power of community action in safeguarding natural and cultural heritage. Drawing on this example, Anna Orman noted that the only real hope of eliminating the current risk to Clonmacnoise lies in a similar coming together of communities, academics, experts, and politicians to ensure the sites protection for future generations. Clonmacnoise, however, is not the only sacred landscape under threat. Ciara Egan of the Lemanaghan Heritage Group outlined how the Lemanaghan monastic site and pilgrim way are also vulnerable. Following recent storm damage, ancient human remains were revealed at the site, highlighting both its archaeological significance and fragility. READ NEXT:Exclusion of Offaly school from new therapy service criticised Attendees also heard positive news about restoration work taking place locally. Michael Carroll of Tullamore Lions Club spoke about extensive efforts undertaken by the club, in partnership with Offaly County Council and private landowners, to restore an area of bogland. While significant progress has been made at Clonbeale More Bog, he noted that the work is ongoing and that there is still much to be done. He expressed his thanks to Offaly County Council for their continued support and to the Grennan family. Attendees warmly wished the Lions Club well and welcomed the restoration of this important wetland space. While there was strong appreciation for the restoration work carried out by the Tullamore Lions Club, the continued preservation and management of Clara Bog by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), and the support of the local community, the threat to Clonmacnoise resonated most deeply with those present. Speakers stressed that the future protection of Irelands sacred landscapes depends on informed public engagement, collective action, and a commitment to placing cultural and environmental heritage at the heart of decision-making. Anna Orman noted that wind farms have become a significant source of renewable energy and have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. She remarked that, to ensure the sustainable use of this technology, it is imperative to fully assess its impactsparticularly in relation to location, proximity to historic and environmentally sensitive sites, and wider cultural, spiritual, ecological, and community considerations. She concluded by praising the efforts and determination of the local community group, the Friends of Cornafulla, Clonmacnoise & the Shannon Callows, who are at the forefront of efforts to address this potential threat. This event, like many World Wetlands Day celebrations, was supported by LAWPRO, the Brosna River Trust, and the Clara Heritage Society, who wish to thank LAWPRO for their ongoing support of the Midland wetlands. A MAN became aggressive with gardai after they came upon him in a car with a woman in the early hours of the morning in Tullamore town centre, the local District Court heard. Denilson Dos Anjos Ferreira (35), The Grove, Hophill, Tullamore was prosecuted for public order offences arising from an incident at Kilbride Plaza, Tullamore on January 11 last. Garda Christopher Ward told the local District Court that at 3.28am he was on mobile patrol with Garda Leslie Coss when they saw vehicle with its lights on and left indicator flashing in a parking space. Garda Ward said Garda Coss walked up to the driver's side and saw two people inside with the seats reclined fully and the car engine running. Garda Coss spoke to a female in the driver's seat and she began running the accelerator and turned the steering wheels towards gardai. When a door of the vehicle was opened there was a strong smell of alcohol and Garda Coss attempted to speak to the female in the driver's seat who was heavily intoxicated. READ NEXT: What an achievement! Offaly choir on song in Wales Garda Ward said the female began shouting and he removed the keys from the ignition. Garda Coss told the female she was being arrested on suspicion of being intoxicated in charge of the vehicle. Garda Ward said at this point the defendant exited the passenger side of the vehicle and began shouting No you won't and Don't touch her. He approached the gardai in an aggressive manner and shouted Get out of here with his arms raised. When Garda Ward told him to get back Mr Dos Anjos Ferreira came towards him with an arm raised. The garda said he used pepper spray and told the man he was being arrested under the Public Order Act. He was still aggressive possibly due to pepper spray in his eyes, the court heard, and the two gardagot assistance and then walked Mr Dos Anjos Ferreira to Tullamore Garda Station. Garda Ward said the accused had no previous convictions and apologised to him afterwards. Defending solicitor Patrick Martin entered guilty pleas on behalf of the man to public drunkenness, resisting a garda and a breach of the peace and said his client restated the apology. Mr Martin said Mr Dos Anjos Ferreira had been asleep in the car and completely reacted in the wrong way when the gardai approached. A father of two, he had been in Ireland for eight years and was in full time employment in a meat factory. He brought 500 to court as a token. Judge Susan Fay said the 500 could be donated to the court poor box and she gave the accused an opportunity to engage with the Athy Alternative Project. She remanded Mr Dos Anjos Ferreira on continuing bail to appear in court again on June 17 next. A MAN was celebrating Moldovan Christmas when he was abusive to gardai and in possession of drugs, Tullamore District Court was told. Mihail Ursachi (42), Francis Street, Edenderry pleaded guilty at Tullamore District Court to a breach of the peace and drugs possession at Inner Relief Road, Edenderry on January 11 last. Sergeant Brendan Kearns told the court Mr Ursachi was seen acting suspiciously while getting into the passenger seat of a vehicle and was drinking from a can of beer. The drugs were found during a search and the accused, who had no previous convictions, was abusive towards the gardai and cursing them. Defending solicitor Brian Duffy said Mr Ursachi was a Moldovan man who worked as a labourer to send money home to his wife and child. READ NEXT: What an achievement! Offaly choir on song in Wales He was celebrating Moldovan Christmas, which is a different date from ours, at the time of the offence and had lost control of himself because of drink. Mr Duffy added that his client said he found the drugs on the ground. Judge Susan Fay said she would apply the Probation Act if 300 was donated to the court poor box and if Mr Ursachi completed the Alternative Project. In default of those conditions Judge Fay said the man must pay fines of 200 for each of the two offences. She remanded him on continuing bail to June 17 next. Legal aid was granted to the accused after Mr Duffy said that in addition to sending money home, Mr Ursachi had to pay rent. A WOMAN walked free from Tullamore District Court after lodging an appeal against a two-month jail sentence. Judge Susan Fay imposed the sentence after convicting Celina Hehir (40), MacRegol Pairc, Birr, of public drunkenness and a breach of the peace at Arden Road, Tullamore on April 25 last year. Sergeant Brendan Kearns told the court the charges arose from gardai stopping a car on the Arden Road in Tullamore as a result of a report that a female had been abusive at Tullamore Hospital. The woman was intoxicated and abusive to gardai and was arrested because they concluded she was a danger to herself. Sergeant Kearns said Ms Hehir had 21 previous convictions, including six for assault, 11 for road traffic offences and two for public order offences. READ NEXT: What an achievement! Offaly choir on song in Wales Judge Fay was also told that the offences before the court would result in the triggering of a suspended sentence which had been imposed at Tullamore Circuit Court in October 2024. There could also be three other sentences triggered, added Sergeant Kearns. Patrick Martin, solicitor for Ms Hehir, said his client had been visiting her mother in the hospital on the date of the offences and her mother subsequently passed away. The defendant was a passenger in the car. Mr Martin said a sister of Ms Hehir was now terminally ill with cancer and his client needed the assistance of the Probation Service. A probation report was before the court, he added, asking Judge Fay to be as lenient as possible to the accused, a single mother who previously had issues with a former partner. Judge Fay said Ms Hehir had been given every chance and didn't engage with the Probation Service and the report before the court didn't read well. The defendant had missed appointments and it didn't appear she was willing to engage. Mr Martin said that was partly because her sister was terminally ill. Judge Fay imposed a two-month sentence for engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour and took the charge of intoxication in a public place into consideration. She remanded Ms Hehir on her own bail to appear before the District Court again on February 11 for re-entry of the matters related to the suspended sentences. The judge also fixed recognisances for an appeal and when they were taken up by Ms Hehir she left the court. The great and the good of the culinary world gather in Dublin on February 9 for the 2026 Michelin Guide Ceremony which will anoint restaurants from across Britain and Ireland with coveted Michelin stars. It is the first time the awards ceremony is being held in Dublin, a stamp of approval in itself of Ireland's growing reputation on the culinary landscape. A ceremony for the awarding of Michelin Star Awards for Great Britain & Ireland in 2026 is being hosted in Dublin on Monday night for the first time since the coveted awards began in 1974. The Michelin Guide rating system began in France in 1926 and one star signifies "a very good restaurant", two stars signify "excellent cooking that is worth a detour" and three stars mean "exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey". Where are the awards taking place? The prestigious event is known as the "Oscars of the food world", is being held at the Convention Centre, where the Michelin Guide will unveil new Michelin Stars, with plenty of local interest, as only a handful of counties in Ireland don't boast a Michelin Star restaurant. LIVE BLOG: Ireland's best restaurants and chefs on show at Michelin Star Awards in Dublin Ireland's top eateries and chefs will all be in attendance for the glitzy and exclusive affair and we've got a team on the ground bringing you all the results from across Great Britain & Ireland. We are delighted to bring The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony to Dublin, a city whose energy and creativity mirror the vitality of the regions gastronomy. Hosting the event here highlights Irelands growing place on the culinary map and the excellent of chefs across Great Britain & Ireland. Dublin offers the perfect setting to celebrate the talent and passion that drive our industry forward, said Gwendal Poullenec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide. How to watch the ceremony? The Great Britain & Ireland Ceremony 2026 will be broadcast on the evening of Monday February 9, live via The MICHELIN Guides YouTube channel, allowing everyone to share in the excitement of the event. Following the Ceremony, the new restaurant selection will be available on The MICHEIN Guides website and app. Who is in the running from Ireland? A whole host of Irish restaurants and chefs will be aiming for top honours, not least three eateries in Dublin and two in Cork aiming for a rare third star. Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud in the Merrion Hotel Dublin; Chapter One in Dublin 1; Liath in Blackrock, Co Dublin; Dede in Co Cork; and Terre in Co Cork are all on two Michelin stars. A number of Irish restaurants have already been announced of recipients of the MICHELIN Bib Gourmands the guide's award for good food at a great price. The Irish restaurants receiving those coveted prizes recently were: BIGFAN, Dublin Asian, Chinese BORGO, Dublin Italian Foret, Dublin French Farmgate Lismore, Lismore Traditional Cuisine Beyond that, restaurants in most counties are in the running for a new or returning star. Some of the restaurants looking to earn their first star are: Kaldero, St Stephen's Green, Dublin The Pullman, Galway HERA, Dorset Street Lower, Dublin The Old Spot, Sandymount, Dublin Blackthorn, The Twelve Hotel, Bearna, Galway BORGO, Phibsborough Road, Dublin Vada, Stoneybatter, Dublin Lena, Portobello, Dublin Comet, Joshua Lane, Dublin Amai by Viktor, Harry Street, Dublin THE Governments decision to exclude the Offaly Special School of Education from the first phase of the new Education Therapy Service (ETS) has been strongly criticised by Independent TD for Offaly, Carol Nolan. The details of the first phase and selected schools were announced last week by Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, and Minister for Special Education and Inclusion, Michael Moynihan. The announcement confirms that the initial phase will cover 45 special schools located in the following counties: Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Laois, Limerick, Longford, Meath, Monaghan, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wexford and Wicklow. Offaly is not included in this initial roll-out and has instead been scheduled for a later phase, with recruitment only anticipated for the county in March 2026. Deputy Nolan described the continued exclusion of Offaly as deeply disappointing and unacceptable: I have been raising concerns about the lack of clarity on this vital service since September last year, when the then Minister was unable to name a single school that would be included. Five months later, we finally have a list, and Offaly is conspicuously absent from the first phase. READ NEXT: GoFundMe appeal launched for Offaly teenager who received life-altering injuries in road collision Children with special educational needs in Offaly deserve the same timely access to embedded therapy supports as children in the 16 counties that have been prioritised. Delaying the service in Offaly until at least March 2026 means that students, families and staff at the Offaly Special School of Education will have to wait longer for supports that the Government itself acknowledges are essential. This phased approach, while presented as progress, effectively leaves some of our most vulnerable children behind. Parents and school communities in Offaly have been left in limbo for far too long, and todays announcement does nothing to alleviate that uncertainty, indeed it simply confirms that other areas are being prioritised ahead of us. I am calling on the Ministers to urgently review the phasing timetable and to guarantee that Offaly is included in the earliest possible expansion of the service. Every child who needs these therapies should have access to them without unnecessary delay. Deputy Nolan concluded by reiterating her commitment to continuing to press the Government on behalf of the Offaly Special School of Education and all families who rely on its services. READ NEXT: Campaigner calls on Offaly schools not to enter Texaco Childrens Art Competition I was invited to a week-long conference on invasive alien species in a gulf state (Al-Sharjah of the UAE*) but forced to go through Jordan like for all remaining Palestinians in the West Bank - adding three days to my trip. I came back Sunday through Jericho crossing. With volunteers and Jessie we took a field trip for a couple of hours to study plants around the area. We were apprehended by Israeli officials who claimed we needed a permit from Israel authorities to study plants. I was let off with a "warning" and told of more severe consequences if caught again studying our nature in the "nature reserves". Photos at facebook page. We published papers about how the colonial apartheid state uses "national parks" and "nature reserves" to ethnically cleanse the land of Palestine from its indigenous people. Here are two examples: Allombert, Ch. and MB Qumsiyeh. Israel designation of "Nature Reserves": A tool of colonization. International Review of Contemporary Law 6(4):9-14. Qumsiyeh, M.B. and Haidee Clauer. 2023. Weaponizing Israeli National Parks to ethnically cleanse Palestinians. Palestine Israel Journal. Vol 3/4. There are 15 million disenfranchised Palestinians? Palestine was a pluralistic and prosperous society developing rapidly before 1948. With creation of the Jewish state of Israel by colonial Zionists we became the unwanted and superfluous population. Most of us live as refugees. Lucky enough to be able to travel (unlike most Palestinians), I see how other countries developed rapidly. Gulf states even surpassed western economies having risen from nothing thanks to oil and gas revenues. Palestine was rich in natural resources (and part of the Fertile Crescent) before being usurped in 1948. It used to be a major exporter of citrus fruits especially oranges to Europe. It has natural gas but it is stolen by the colonizers (that is why Gaza is destroyed). The country now is developed for the colonizers while making the indigenous people refugees, impoverished, jailed and increasingly genocided. Half a million were killed since 1948, 8 million made refugees. A superfluous unwanted population. But we will survive against all odds. For a glimpse from one of our ghettos, see this weekly webinar from Doctots against genocide: From Gaza to Iran, from the Rohingya genocide to ICE violence and repression at home, we are witnessing the same playbook: dehumanization, criminalization, silence, and impunity. More on Epstein. *Note: I was allowed to wear the Palestinian Kufiya in Al-Sharjah IUCN conference. At the IUCN Abu Dhabi conference last year authorities forbade it. Big story was made about this. Unlike rulers of Al-Sharjah, the ruler of Abu Dhabi Mohamed was associated with Mossad agent Jeffrey Epstein. May the world and all rulers realize the danger of association with Zionists. Iran Foreign minister speech. U.S. Envoys Refused to Report "Apocalyptic" Conditions in Gaza. Exclusive Photos Show the Reality They Suppressed. Trump pick for FED chair, Kevin Warsh, is son-in-Law of Zionist Billionaire Ron Lauder. The world is changing to a new world orders... Be part of pushing it along Stay Humane, act, and keep hope and Palestine alive Mazin Qumsiyeh A bedouin in cyberspace, a villager at home Professor, Founder, and (volunteer) Director Palestine Museum of Natural History Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability Bethlehem University Occupied Palestine facebook pages Personal Institute French Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator Iraq has reached a decisive moment, caught between escalating U.S. pressure, unresolved internal political deadlock, and mounting regional tensions linked to Iran. Following a high-level phone call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, Washington has signaled a recalibration of its Iraq policy-- combining military drawdown with unprecedented financial leverage-- while accelerating the transfer of thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria into Iraqi custody. At the heart of this recalibration lies a stark message: Iraq must distance itself from Tehran-aligned political and armed factions or risk severe economic consequences. ISIS Detainees: A Security File with Regional Implications The U.S. State Department confirmed that Rubio and Al-Sudani discussed the logistical, legal, and security arrangements required to receive ISIS detainees previously held in northeastern Syria. The move follows the collapse of the US-sponsored Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the emergence of a new government in Damascus under President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, fundamentally altering the post-ISIS detention architecture. According to Iraqi journalist and television presenter Sajad Jafar, the transfer of ISIS prisoners was not imposed on Baghdad, but rather requested by Iraq itself as a preemptive security measure. "The transfer of ISIS detainees to Iraq came at the request of Iraq as a proactive step, based on an assessment of the deteriorating security situation in Syria-- something that nearly all countries in the region fear," Jafar explained. Iraqi officials argue that leaving hardened terrorists in unstable Syrian facilities risks renewed infiltration across the border. Prime Minister Al-Sudani reportedly views the prisoner file as an "open gate" threat should Syria fail to secure or prosecute them effectively. While Damascus proposed trying active combatants and repatriating non-combatants, Baghdad opted for a stricter approach. Supreme Judicial Council President Fael Zeidan confirmed that detainees wanted by Iraqi courts would be prosecuted under Iraqi anti-terrorism laws, with assurances that international legal standards would be respected-- claims that continue to draw skepticism from human rights organizations referencing past abuses. Why Iraq, Not Syria? Former U.S. envoy to Syria James Jeffrey described the detainee transfer as a byproduct of the end of what he called the "era of isolationist enclaves". With the Al-Sharaa government now viewed in Washington as a functional alternative to the Assad era, U.S. protection of the SDF has effectively ended. Yet distrust remains between Washington and Damascus, particularly over the fate of foreign fighters. Iraq, by contrast, is seen as a state with established judicial mechanisms and a direct security stake-- making it the preferred destination despite the political risks involved. The Iran Question and the Risk of Regional War The issue of the ISIS prisoners formerly held in Syria unfolds against a much broader backdrop: rising speculation about a potential U.S. military strike against Iran. While Washington has not confirmed such plans, Iraqi officials are acutely aware that any regional conflict would spill across their borders. Jafar emphasized that Baghdad is seeking to insulate itself from escalation. "Iraq-- as an independent country and a neighbor to Iran-- is not isolated from what is happening, especially with hundreds of kilometers of shared borders and deep ties. However, the Iraqi decision is to prioritize national interests and remain, as much as possible, in a position of de-escalation while pursuing diplomatic paths to reduce tensions," said Jafar. This stance reflects Iraq's painful experience of the US attack, invasion and occupation of Iraq, and its determination to avoid becoming a battlefield for proxy confrontations once again. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com . To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here Consider me an A-bomb baby. I was just a year old when, in the war my father had been part of, my country dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, devastating those two cities and killing more than 200,000 people, including an estimated 38,000 children. Like so many kids of my generation, I would grow up ducking and covering under my desk at school during what were essentially end-of-the-world nuclear drills. When I walked the streets of New York City, I often passed yellow signs indicating fallout shelters (that you could rush into if a nuclear war were to begin). And while a freshman in college in October 1962, in the midst of the Cuban Missile Crisis, when President John Kennedy announced that Soviet missile sites were just then being prepared on the island of Cuba with "a nuclear strike capability against the Western Hemisphere," I briefly feared that a nuclear war between the U.S. and the Soviet Union might leave the east coast of my country (where I was) with its own mushroom clouds. And yet, how strange. It wasn't a subject that came up in my home. It wasn't something my friends and I really talked about. When I went to war movies with my dad, the world never blew up -- you had to go to sci-fi films to see that -- though in my dreams it sometimes did. Hiroshima and Nagasaki were seldom the subject of programs on TV. I remember only one direct experience of seeing the devastation of Hiroshima. Right next to my apartment building in New York was the Plaza Theater, which regularly showed "art" films, including in 1959 or 1960, French film director Alain Resnais's Hiroshima Mon Amour (Hiroshima My Love). Fortunately, the manager of that theater took a liking to me and let me into any films I wanted to see. And in that film, as a teenager, I actually did see footage of devastated Hiroshima. I suspect the strange presence (and absence) of the atomic destruction of those two Japanese cities must have been why, soon after I got to Pantheon Books as an editor in 1976, when a friend sent me the translated British version of a Japanese book, Unforgettable Fire: Pictures Drawn by Atomic Bomb Survivors, I instantly decided that I simply had to publish it in this country. Those pictures drawn by survivors stunned me, as did the little texts that went with them. ("The condition in which I found my 40-year-old wife on the morning of August 11, 1945. She was badly burned and had developed running sores". She looked just like a ghost because her eyelids were badly burned and swollen" The skin of her whole burned body on which maggots were breeding had the appearance of the crust of a crab.") And here we are 80 years after Hiroshima and Nagasaki and another atomic weapon has never been used, but, as TomDispatch regular Eric Ross reminds us today, in a world with nine nuclear powers and undoubtedly more to come, we may indeed be living on borrowed time on Planet Earth. Tom Eight Decades Later, It Remains One World or None The End of New START and the Enduring Nuclear Nightmare By Eric Ross On February 5th, with the expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, or New START, the only bilateral arms control treaty left between the United States and Russia, we are guaranteed to find ourselves ever closer to the edge of a perilous precipice. The renewed arms race that seems likely to take place could plunge the world, once and for all, into the nuclear abyss. This crisis is neither sudden nor surprising, but the predictable culmination of a truth that has haunted us for nearly 80 years: humanity has long been living on borrowed time. In such a context, you might think that our collective survival instinct has proven remarkably poor, which is, at least to a certain extent, understandable. After all, if we had allowed ourselves to feel the full weight of the nuclear threat we've faced all these years, we might indeed have collapsed under it. Instead, we continue to drift forward with a sense of muted dread, unwilling (or simply unable) to respond to the nuclear nightmare. In a world already armed with thousands of omnicidal weapons, such fatalism -- part suicidal nihilism and part homicidal complacency -- becomes a form of violence in its own right. Given such indifference, we risk not only our own lives but also the lives of all those who would come after us. As Jonathan Schell observed decades ago, both genocide and nuclear war are distinct from other forms of mass atrocity in that they serve as "crimes against the future." And as Robert Jay Lifton once warned, what makes nuclear war so singularly horrifying is that it would constitute "genocide in its terminal form," a destruction so absolute as to render the earth unlivable and irrevocably reverse the very process of creation. Yet for many, the absence of such a nuclear holocaust, 80 years after the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, is taken as proof that such a catastrophe is, in fact, unthinkable and will never happen. These days, to invoke the specter of annihilation is to be dismissed as alarmist, while to argue for the abolition of such weaponry is considered naive. As it happens, though, the opposite is true. It's the height of naivete' to believe that a global system built on the supposed security of nuclear weapons can endure indefinitely. That much should be obvious by now. In truth, we've clung to the faith that rational heads will prevail for far too long. Such thinking has sustained a minimalist global nonproliferation regime aimed at preventing the further spread of nuclear weapons to so-called terrorist states like Iraq, Libya, and North Korea (which now indeed has a nuclear arsenal). Yet, today, it should be all too clear that the states with nuclear weapons are, and have long been, the true rogue states. A nuclear-armed Israel has, after all, been committing genocide in Gaza and has bombed many of its neighbors. Russia continues to devastate Ukraine, which relinquished its nuclear arsenal in 1994, and its leader, Vladimir Putin, has threatened to use nuclear weapons there. And a Washington led by a brazen authoritarian deranged by power, who has declared that he doesn't "need international law," has stripped away the fragile facade of a rules-based global order. Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and the leaders of the seven other nuclear-armed states possess the unilateral capacity to destroy the world, a power no country should be allowed to wield. Yet even now, there is still time to avert catastrophe. But to chart a reasonable path forward, it's necessary to look back eight decades and ask why the world failed to ban the bomb at a moment when the dangerous future we now inhabit was already clearly foreseeable. Every City is Hiroshima With Hiroshima and Nagasaki still smoldering ruins, people everywhere confronted a rupture so profound that it seemed to inaugurate a new historical era, one that might well be the last. As news of the atomic bombings spread, a grim consensus took shape that technological "progress" had outpaced political and moral restraint. Journalist Norman Cousins captured the zeitgeist when he wrote that "modern man is obsolete, a self-made anachronism becoming more incongruous by the minute." Human beings had clearly fashioned themselves into vengeful gods and the specter of Armageddon was no longer a matter of theology but a creation of modern civilization. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Merge patch series "file: FD_{ADD,PREPARE}()" Merge patch series "nstree: listns()" Semnan, Iran - Gahvare Mehr, an energy infrastructure engineering company, has announced the development of TrackenT, a modular, megawatt-scale two-axis solar tracking platform designed for PERPIGNAN, FRANCE - Rudy Dindault, a seasoned web marketing consultant with over a decade of industry experience, is proud to announce the official opening of FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONTREAL - February 6, 2026 - As headlines fill with stories of people marrying AI companions, a new Montreal-based technology is launching to Apex Essays is proud to announce its continued commitment to providing reliable, high-quality academic writing support for students across a wide range of disciplines. Built New Delhi, India - Gatilab, a WordPress-focused digital marketing agency based in Delhi NCR, is reporting that businesses switching from managed WordPress hosting to optimized A residential fire in Beaverton on Sunday afternoon engulfed a bedroom in flames and killed a dog, fire officials said. Firefighters responded to the scene after a neighbor saw white smoke coming from the roof and called 911, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue said in a statement. Fire officials didnt say when or where in Beaverton the fire happened, but said that the homeowners were gone at the time. When firefighters arrived, they found the home heavily charged with smoke, officials said. Officials said that firefighters attacked the fire from inside the house and managed to quickly extinguish the flames before it could spread but were unable to save the dog who was trapped inside. The former Oregon Country Fair volunteer who secretly filmed more than a dozen naked people in a communal shower at the fairgrounds last summer including a girl apparently under the age of 10 has pleaded guilty to first-degree invasion of privacy, according to court records. Elijiah David Russo, 31, was sentenced to two weeks in prison and three years probation after he pleaded guilty on Nov. 12, court records show. You shouldnt invade peoples privacy like that, Lane County Circuit Court Judge Clara L. Rigmaiden said during the sentencing hearing. That was a pretty ugly thing to do. You know, people are there trusting other people to be in that environment, and you violated that trust. Rigmaiden also issued a court order barring Russo from the Oregon Country Fair for the next three years. At one point during the hearing, Russos defense attorney, Caitlin Plummer, told the court there were certainly intoxicants on board at the time. Im just extremely apologetic and remorseful for my actions, Russo said moments later. And just want to continue the path of being sober and getting my life kind of figured out. The sentence came roughly four months after he stashed his phone in a modified basket he was holding at a volunteers-only event on July 5, turned the video on and lingered in the communal shower at the fairgrounds in Veneta, court records show. For 30 minutes, Russo loitered in the showers and filmed as many as 20 people naked, until someone caught on to his behavior and staff called the Lane County Sheriffs Office, court records show. He told deputies at the time that he hadnt thought of doing it prior to doing it and said he was motivated by curiosity, according to court records. He eventually admitted there could have been an element of arousal, the probable cause affidavit says. Deputies reviewing the video saw that one of the people he filmed was a girl who appeared to be under the age of 10. When asked about the minor in the video, Russo told deputies he didnt mean to film any children but knew a minor was in the shower at the time. The Oregon Country Fair said Russo wasnt involved with the fair in an official capacity. Troy Courtright, a former fair volunteer who said he was a longtime friend of Russos up until his arrest, said Russo had volunteered as a crew member at the fair for nine years including the year of his arrest. A Portland man is in jail and another person in the hospital with serious injuries after a Sunday afternoon stabbing at a Gresham house that SWAT officers raided less than three months ago. Emergency dispatch records show that police were called to the scene in the 2500 block of Northwest 4th Street around 2 p.m. Ryan Holgate, who lives across the street from the home where the alleged stabbing happened, shared security camera footage with The Oregonian/OregonLive that shows police helping a person who appears to be the stabbing victim out of the home. Gresham Police Department spokesperson Adam Wright told The Oregonian/OregonLive that officers arrested 37-year-old Vinh Nguyen on suspicion of first-degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon. Wright didnt share the identity of the person Nguyen allegedly stabbed, but said that theyre in the hospital with serious injuries. Vinh Nguyen, 37, is facing allegation of drug and gun charges in a separate case from 2025. Anika Todd In late November, Multnomah County Sheriffs Deputies and SWAT officers served a search warrant on the same house and seized half a dozen rifles, body armor, cocaine and methamphetamine, sheriffs officials said in a release at the time. They also arrested two people on a series of drug-related allegations: 50-year-old Tai Nguyen and 76-year-old Craig Larson. The two Nguyens appear to be related: court records show that during a May 15, 2025 arrest, Vinh Nguyen told a Gresham police officer that hed purchased a weapon from his uncle, Tai. The probable cause affidavit for the charges stemming from that arrest also show that the arresting officer was familiar with the house, describing it as a known drug house where hed made arrests before. Vinh Nguyen is facing gun and cocaine possession charges related to that May arrest. Oregon Health & Science Universitys leaders voted Monday to begin talks with the National Institutes of Health over the future of the Oregon National Primate Research Center, a move that starts a formal review of one of the universitys most debated and expensive operations. The board approved a resolution allowing OHSU President Dr. Shereef Elnahal to begin talks with the federal agency for up to six months. The vote does not close the Hillsboro-based center, stop ongoing research or commit the university to convert the primate research center into a sanctuary for its animals used in research. Any agreement reached with National Institutes of Health, the centers primary funder, would require a separate vote by the board. Elnahal described the move as a way for OHSU to stay engaged in a rapidly changing research and political landscape and to retain control over its own future. Others have challenged us to think about new models sooner, not just from the lens of organizations exclusively focused on animal welfare but also a number of scientists and professional groups that believe we should transition out of this work faster, Elnahal said. This is not a final decision. It is the initiation of a process. The special board meeting drew intense interest. Sign-carrying opponents to the change packed the hearing room, with some of the placards reading: Save Oregon Science and My Day Job is Curing HIV at ONPRC. The university received roughly 7,000 public comments on the proposal, officials said. People packed the hearing room Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, as the OHSU board planned to vote on a resolution considering the future of its controversial primate center. Kristine de Leon/staff Mondays decision marks a shift for OHSU. After years of defending the primate center as essential to biomedical research, university leaders are now publicly preparing for a future in which primate research may no longer be viable. The center, located on a 154-acre campus, houses nearly 5,000 monkeys and baboons about 5% of all research primates in the United States. It is the largest of seven federally supported primate research centers and employs 267 people, most of them animal-care staff. Last year, the National Institutes of Health contributed $13.7 million to support research projects there for 2026. During the 75-minute public testimony period, roughly three dozen speakers offered starkly different perspectives on the primate centers scientific value, ethics and long-term viability. Scientists, veterinarians and employees at the research center warned that nonhuman primate research still plays an essential role for certain areas of medicine, including vaccine development, neuroscience, maternal-fetal health and aging. Several argued that there are still no validated non-animal alternatives for much of the work done at the center. Federal and state leaders have interest in transitioning from nonhuman primate studies to novel methods of research, however, the science is not there, said Julie Mitchell, a research assistant professor at OHSU. If there were validated models for the work being done on animals at the research center, we would be using it because we care. Jed Friedman, the director of the University of Oklahomas diabetes research center, testified in support of OHSUs primate center, arguing that nonhuman primate models help researchers learn whether treatments are safe and effective before moving into clinical trials. Others including physicians, ethicists and animal-welfare advocates argued that primate research is increasingly expensive, ethically troubling and less relevant to patient care than newer human-based methods, such as human stem cells, lab-grown human tissues and advanced computer modeling. What ultimately matters in medical research is whether the work improves outcomes for human patients, said Dr. Gail Van Norman, a Seattle-based anesthesiologist who urged the board to support the resolution. After public testimony ended, the board briefly considered delaying the decision but rejected a motion to table the resolution. The members then approved changes before taking a final vote. The board removed language that would have paused new primate-research grant applications, responding to widespread concerns from scientists and workers at the center. Under the approved resolution, researchers may continue applying for National Institutes of Health funding and conducting primate research during negotiations. The resolution also states that any decisions about scaling back or ending primate research should be guided by independent scientific reviews of whether non-animal alternatives are actually ready in fields like vaccine development, immunology, neuroscience, reproductive biology and infectious disease. Research would continue in those fields where those alternatives do not yet exist. Christopher Abbruzzese, an OHSU board member appointed last fall, said the resolution adds guardrails to make sure decisions are driven by evidence rather than politics or ideology. The resolution gives OHSU leaders six months to sit down with officials at the National institutes of Health and talk through federal support for existing research at the primate center, job protections, help for faculty who might move into other research areas and whether financial support could be available if the center were to convert into a sanctuary. The unanimous vote also means OHSU would have to pause breeding of primates where possible, outside of what is required for ongoing research. Since the 1960s, scientists at the center have used primates to study vaccines, infectious disease, neuroscience, reproductive health and aging. Researchers there led to new treatments for cancer, HIV and infertility. At the same time, the center has drawn sustained criticism from animal welfare groups who argue that experimenting on primates is unethical and increasingly unnecessary as alternatives such as human stem cell models and artificial intelligence advance. That long-running tension boiled over last year during OHSUs high-profile merger talks with Legacy Health. As state regulators reviewed the proposed merger, national animal rights groups used the process to push for closure of the primate center, highlighting monkey deaths tied to accidents and research and arguing the facility posed ethical and reputational risks. Gov. Tina Kotek last spring publicly urged OHSU to develop plans to wind down the primate center, and state lawmakers pressed the university to disclose the centers finances and assess what would happen if federal funding declined. OHSU and Legacy Health eventually abandoned the merger. But scrutiny of the primate center did not end with it. At lawmakers request, OHSU commissioned a financial analysis laying out contingency plans if funding from the National Institutes of Health fell sharply. That report showed the center operates on federal grants and research revenue, receives no state general funds and ran a $12 million loss last year as labor and animal-care costs outpaced flat federal funding. The report, prepared by Huron Consulting Group a consulting firm that helped Harvard University close its primate lab a decade ago, found that closing the center would be neither quick nor cheap. Depending on the approach, winding down operations would take at least eight years and cost between roughly $118 million and $241 million. Converting the center into a sanctuary would cost between $220 million and $291 million over eight years, followed by ongoing animal-care costs. At the same time, the National Institutes of Health has begun moving away from animal experimentation under direction from the Trump administration. Federal health officials have announced initiatives to reduce animal use across research and invest in alternatives such as lab-grown human tissues and AI modeling. In December, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the agency was deeply committed to ending animal experimentation, calling newer methods more predictive of human health outcomes. Last week, OHSU leaders disclosed that National Institutes of Health officials had approached the university to discuss whether federal support could be available to transition the primate center into a sanctuary. Because NIH is both the centers main funder and its primary research client, that outreach significantly altered the stakes. If federal priorities continue to shift, OHSU has limited ability to sustain the primate center on its own. Kotek has voiced support for the boards move, framing it as a chance for OHSU to modernize its research mission. I believe in Oregon Health & Science Universitys research mission and support the professionals committed to discovering life-saving solutions to serious illnesses, Kotek said in a statement. I also believe OHSU can fulfill its research mission without a primate research center. Kotek said she supports a transition plan that would responsibly wind down work at the primate center, complete remaining research obligations and do so humanely, while supporting faculty and staff through any transition. If she could go back in time, she never would have married him. Nou was 15 and living in a refugee camp in Thailand when she was wed to a much older man. She didnt want to and, with decades of hindsight and regret, she wishes she had pushed back. Now shes 50 and living in St. Paul, Minnesota. She is disabled from what she describes as years of abuse at her husbands hands and from a suicide attempt in 2003. Her husband died the same day, in what she says was an act of self-defense, and she pleaded no contest to voluntary manslaughter. She served nearly seven years in prison and her green card was taken. U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement issued a removal order to Nou, who asked to be referred to by only her first name due to safety concerns. The order was not carried out and she has to regularly check in with ICE. Her next appointment with ICE is Tuesday and, given the current surge in immigration enforcement in Minnesota, she fears she will be taken into custody. Nou cannot get around without a walker or wheelchair, and her family cares for her everyday needs. She believes she wouldnt survive detention or being deported to the country where she was born, Laos. Due to the persecution of the Hmong people there, she and her family escaped to a refugee camp in Thailand when she was 2 years old. As the Trump administration touts the Worst of the Worst theyve arrested, Nous name and picture could wind up on their list: Theyve included people whove been convicted of manslaughter and who have removal orders. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said as of Wednesday that it had arrested more than 4,000 illegal aliens, including violent criminal illegal aliens, since Operation Metro Surge began in Minnesota in December. We will not back down from our mission to remove criminal illegal aliens from American neighborhoods, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. Amid the harsh stance from the federal government, Nou feels she has to talk about her life so people can understand the circumstances as she pleads to stay with her relatives in St. Paul, though she doesnt want to offend her deceased husbands family. Shes contacted organizations, looking for legal help, but hadnt been able to find any as of Friday. Former St. Paul City Council member Dai Thao started a GoFundMe for Nous legal and medical needs. Nou has already survived more than most people should in one lifetime, Thao wrote on the fundraising page. Promised a good life in America The man Nou married was around 40 years old when he visited Thailand from the U.S. He was Hmong and had become a U.S. citizen. He told me I was the most beautiful girl, she said. He promised her a good life, saying she could go to school or they could open a business, she recounted recently. He begged my mom and dad to allow him to marry me. But I didnt want to marry him because I was afraid that if I came to the U.S. and my parents were still in Thailand, if he doesnt love me, Id have nobody to love and protect me, she said. She said the man paid her mother $2,000 and promised to send $20 a month back to hire someone to do the chores shed been responsible for, though he ultimately didnt. They were culturally married in 1992. She left Thailand in 1993 and moved to California to live with him. Her uncle, who was already in the U.S., sponsored her as a refugee and she obtained a green card in America, according to Nou. Physical abuse, control over her life The abuse started in 1994, Nou says, with her husband pulling her hair, pinching her and pouring cold water on her as she tried to sleep. He would point a gun at her head and order her to have sex with his relatives or truckers parked nearby; she never did, she says, and would cry and beg for him to stop. He often accused her of infidelity, though she said she was faithful to him. When he visited Laos, Nou said he would have his friends track her movements and record her phone calls. When he returned home, there were many times hed point his gun at her and threaten her. He wanted to murder me so that nobody would know how I died, that it would be a mystery, Nou said. Nou said her husband controlled most aspects of her life: She worked, providing in-home support to people who were elderly or disabled, and he took the money from her paychecks. He didnt allow her to drive for her first seven years in America, and would later take away the car keys after he beat her so she couldnt escape or get help. And he blocked her from seeking citizenship, including ripping up her paperwork. He knew that once I got my citizenship, I would have more rights, she said. She briefly took a class to learn English, and the teacher mentioned they could get their pictures taken for free for citizenship documents. I sat all day, waiting for that picture. I was able to start the process, she said, speaking through a Hmong interpreter. But her husband didnt want to get legally married and sponsor her to become a citizen because he talked about doing so for another of his wives, Nou said. He told her to never contact police On a day Nou returned home late from running errands, she said her husband beat her head so hard that he broke his own knuckle. At work, a supervisor and another woman saw bruises on her face and asked if they wanted her to call the police; she said no. My husband had always warned me that if I dont want to make headline news, I should just let our problem be our problem, Nou said. He told her if she ever called the police, he was going to kill every cop that came. She said she sustained other head injuries from separate incidents, including a time he beat her so badly that she fell and hit her head on a coffee table, causing her to black out. She cant hear as well in her left ear as her right one, she said, adding, Im not sure how much of it was impacted from the beatings. Homicide, attempted suicide She told him she didnt want to be married anymore. He always mentioned that the reason I cant leave him was no matter where I go, hell find me, she said. If I left quietly, he said he would hire people to kill me. She confided in her sister, who lived nearby, about the abuse. But she said her sister told her she couldnt stay with her because said she and her husband were also afraid of him. Nou went to her uncle, who told her it was the first he knew about it and she should go back home and try to make it work. When Nous husband brought back another wife from Laos, she thought he would leave her alone. But Nou said her husband became more abusive and isolated her more. In August 2003, he said he was going to cut me up and flush my flesh down the toilet and then hide my bones, so no one could find her remains, Nou said. I was protecting myself. He was going to kill me that night. Police said Nou fatally stabbed her husband at their home and then stabbed herself, according to an article in the Sacramento Bee. Nou was hospitalized in critical condition. She was in a coma for more than two months. She said her husband previously stepped on her back, which damaged the nerves to her legs, and her feet stiffened up when she was in the coma. Her toes remain gnarled and she has a condition called a foot drop. When she was in the county jail, she developed an infection and her small toe needed to be amputated. Battered womens syndrome At a hearing in 2004, Nous public defender told a judge a jury might acquit her as a victim of battered womens syndrome, said a Sacramento Bee article about health care at the county jail. Nou said recently that she wishes people would have stepped in and called law enforcement when she was being abused. If youre ever in a situation like mine seek help, she said. Nou felt like she had no choice but to enter a plea of no contest because she needed medical attention she wasnt getting in jail. She also said she didnt fully understand the court process including that she would lose her green card because she had never been through the legal system and was in so much pain. She thought she would serve her sentence, get out of prison, find a job and try to rebuild her life. Immigration enforcement was waiting for her when she was released from prison. She was given information about regularly checking in with ICE, and she said shes done everything thats been asked of her. Im scared After Nous time on parole was over, she moved to Minnesota to live with family. My husband has taught me a very hard lesson, and I dont want to make any more mistakes, she said, adding that she remains traumatized and its difficult for her to sleep without nightmares. She said shes no danger to anyone. I cant even walk, she said. She stays in bed all day and night because shes in constant pain and its too difficult for her to move around. She has various medications in her room for her arthritis, diabetes and kidney stones, among other conditions. She said she started receiving a small amount of disability benefits relatively recently. She previously had surgery on her feet and is scheduled for another surgery later in February. If shes taken into ICE custody and isnt able to seek a legal recourse, for someone like me, if I dont get that second chance, I would just be dead, she said. She has no relatives left in Laos and, if shes deported, doesnt know how she would get care. Im scared, she said. I cant sleep, cant eat. 2026 MediaNews Group, Inc. Visit at twincities.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. News / National by Staff reporter The University of Matopo is one step closer to welcoming its first cohort of students as it awaits the official approval from the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (Zimche).An initiative of the Brethren in Christ Church (BICC), the university was required to meet several Zimche guidelines by January 2026, including establishing a governing council and developing essential infrastructure.University of Matopo Trust chairman, Professor Henry Sibanda, revealed in an interview that the institution has already made significant progress despite the 12-month provisional period."We submitted an update to Zimche detailing our progress against the guidelines. We have appointed an initial nine-member University Council, and Zimche allows up to 15 members," Prof Sibanda said, adding that additional council members will be appointed as more programmes are introduced.The university plans to offer a range of courses, including BSc Honours in Agriculture, BSc Honours in Computer Science and Cyber Security, BA Honours in Theology and Philosophy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education, and an MBA.Prof Sibanda confirmed that the recommended principal officers and an interim operational budget were submitted to Zimche in December 2025.The university will operate across four campuses: Matopo (headquarters), Mtshabezi, Wanezi, and Bulawayo. The immediate construction budget for Mtshabezi Campus is US$490,000, while Matopo Campus plans include pre-construction surveys, architectural plans, and foundational work costing around US$200,000.Although the project was first conceptualised in 2000, financial challenges delayed its launch for 24 years. The board, however, remains optimistic that the current economic climate is favorable for a successful rollout. In a state where agriculture is the cornerstone of our economy and culture, Oregon FFA previously Future Farmers of America has been cultivating the next generation of leaders for nearly a century. But its about more than just cows and plows. Whether a student wants to get involved in farming, run their own business or serve the public, FFA teaches skills like teamwork, public speaking and parliamentary procedures to prepare them for future careers. Now, the organization stands to lose up to $1.1 million due to state budget cuts. State funding for FFA was most recently re-established by lawmakers in 2019, in part to finance enrollment for low-income students whose families couldnt afford the membership fees. That led to FFA enrollment here in Hermiston nearly tripling, from about 220 kids to 600. Meanwhile, the data show that FFA and other career and technical education programs have been a major boost to Oregons high school graduation rates. Statewide, the graduation rate for all students in 2023-24 was 81.3%. For CTE participants, the rate jumped to 90.3%, and for CTE concentrators the rate was an incredible 97.7%. Why, then, would we want to choke off access to an organization that we know is helping students graduate as it prepares them for life beyond the classroom? Cutting state funding for FFA would be a step backward for our workforce, our communities and our food systems. FFA is an investment that works, and one Oregon cannot afford to abandon. Tricia Mooney Mooney is superintendent of the Hermiston School District Ammon Bundy is decrying government overreach once again. Only this time, his views align much more with those on the political left than the right. Oregonians know Bundy well. It was 10 years ago that the rancher led the armed takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in eastern Oregon. Back then, Bundy and his group were protesting the imprisonment of local ranchers while also challenging the federal governments approach to land management across the West. Bundy was arrested, jailed for months and then acquitted of federal charges. Along the way, he became a heroic figure in certain conservative circles. Fast forward a decade, and Bundy now is speaking out against ICE and the Trump administrations approach to immigration enforcement. Few in those conservative circles seem to agree with him on this point. Bundy published an essay in November that defended the rights of immigrants and blasted the federal governments recent crackdown. After an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent shot and killed Renee Good in Minneapolis last month, Bundy said on a livestream that ICEs conduct looks like tyranny. Weeks later, Bundy spoke to a writer from The Atlantic shortly after ICE agents shot and killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Bundy called the situation sickening to me. When it comes to the more humanitarian side of it, I think the left has it much more correct than the nationalist right, Bundy told The Atlantic. Bundys viewpoints have not suddenly shifted left. But on the immigration issue, his libertarian beliefs about individual rights line up more with those protesting ICE than those supporting it. In The Atlantic article, he labeled Democrats communist-anarchists and Republicans nationalists and suggested both are spurred by wickedness. Politically speaking, Bundy told The Atlantic that he currently feels a little bit alone. In a video interview late last week with journalist Wes Siler, who is running as a Democrat for state senate in Montana, Bundy talked extensively about his views on immigration and how they differ from many on the right. Its amazing to me to think that they actually have been deceived or buffaloed into thinking that masked armed men going from house to house, dragging families out and putting them in prison is somehow going to further freedom, Bundy told Siler. It never works that way. That never works that way. And how this has become an element or a justification for liberty is beyond me. Bundy, 50, said many on the right are demonizing all immigrants as violent criminals. He also noted that the United States has a long history of people coming here without permission. We fled from Europe because of oppression, tyranny, religious oppression, Bundy told Siler. We came here, and many times we had to flee where we were coming from secretly because they didnt give us permission to leave. The nations founders would be turning in their graves knowing that the federal government now is claiming authority to stop peaceful people from coming to the U.S., Bundy said. They never in any way saw the federal government restricting people, or any government, from coming in here and peacefully living, Bundy said. They never saw that once they were here that they werent eligible to be protected by the law. They just said that theres a process that people need to go through to be naturalized so that they can become a citizen and vote. And see, thats the difference. Thats where the separation is, that somehow they think that they are not allowed to be here, even if theyre not a citizen. And they shouldnt be protected by the law and protected by the Constitution, they shouldnt be allowed to live here peacefully unless theyre a citizen. And thats where were getting all messed up. And thats where the whole nationalist thing comes in. Where like, its all about a nation, the nation, the nation. And its not about people and individuals and protecting rights. Bundy emphasized that he did not support immediately granting immigrants all the rights that come with citizenship. Im not saying here that a person should come here and immediately be able to vote and have all the privileges of another citizen. Im not saying that, Bundy said. But what I am saying is that a person has a right, an inalienable right, to live here among us peacefully and be protected and not be drug into prison, not be torn away from their life, not be separated and lose all their possessions and property simply because they chose to live here. And Im hoping Im being obvious with the reality of what is right, what is wrong and what our founders set up. On a party line vote Monday, Oregon Democrats advanced their plan to generate more than $300 million for the current state budget by ending several state tax breaks copied from President Donald Trumps big 2025 tax- and budget-cutting bill. The plan also contains two new state tax credits: an increased Earned Income Tax Credit for low- and moderate-income working households and a $1,000-per-worker break for any employer that creates up to 10 new well-paying jobs in Oregon. The plan, crafted by Senate Revenue Chair Anthony Broadman of Bend and his House counterpart, Nancy Nathanson of Eugene, both Democrats, generated huge amounts of public testimony. Broadly, left-leaning fans of public services like education, food assistance, child care and support for people with disabilities praised it for generating a net $312 million to patch what they said could be significant hits to such services due to Trumps bill. Champions of small and large businesses, meanwhile, primarily criticized the bill as harmful to Oregons drive to create a more welcoming climate for business creation and expansion. They took particular aim at the bills largest single financial impact in the current two-year budget: elimination of accelerated deduction for businesses that buy large amounts of machinery and equipment. Corporations are expected to pay $267 million more in Oregon taxes by June 2027 if lawmakers approve Senate Bill 5107. Thats money those businesses would still be able to write off gradually over the life of the equipment. But businesses will lose most of the state portion of their immediate tax incentive to spend big on equipment that could make their businesses more productive, business leaders said. Capital investment makes our businesses competitive and viable, J.L. Wilson, lobbyist for the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce, told lawmakers. Were going to have to be intentional about creating a place that is welcoming for business investment. Oregonians from across the political spectrum praised the bills plan to increase the size of a familys state Earned Income Tax Credit by as much as 55%. That increase, which is expected to help roughly 230,000 households, is key to improving affordability for families hit hardest by rising costs of food, rent and utilities, they said. A family with two children living on minimum-wage earnings might get an additional $350 if the bill passes, said Daniel Hauser, deputy director of the Oregon Center for Public Policy, which advocates for low-income Oregonians. I dont want to pretend that an extra $300 or $400 is going to dramatically change their ability to afford child care, he said. But it could help them get something fixed on their car or help pay down a debt or get back in good standing on their electricity bill. SB 5107 would preserve the tax breaks for tips and overtime income in Trumps bill, something that drew praise from lawmakers in both parties. It would also preserve two complicated tax policies related to offshoring corporate income, something progressive advocates who follow tax code had urged lawmakers to change. Annie Naranjo-Rivera, state director of the Oregon Working Families Party, said removing those handouts to multinational corporations would raise $190 million for the current state budget. She said she thinks that money is likely needed to preserve services vital to working families, including subsidized child care and food aid, given changes in requirements and funding under Trumps bill. Broadman said he and Nathanson consciously decided to maintain those two corporate tax policies for now. Theres a need to be very cautious when youre making broad-scale tax policy changes, he told The Oregonian/OregonLive. This short session, this is a balanced, narrow approach to providing the resources that our state needs for education, health care (and) public safety. Broadman and Nathanson originally estimated the bill would raise a net $291 million. But the estimated cost of the job creation tax credit in the current two-year budget fell by about $20 million, to $4.6 million, as the bill was finalized. The bill also would end two much more limited tax breaks copied into state law from HR 1. One lets individuals deduct interest payments of up to $10,000 a year if they buy a new car. The other provides a tax break to people who sell certain corporate stocks, primarily from start-up businesses. Ending those breaks would add $36 million and $26 million, respectively, to the current state budget. Taxpayers would continue to be able to deduct car interest and avoid taxes on capital gains from selling those stocks on their federal returns. In addition to Broadman, the two other Democrats on the Senate Revenue Committee also voted to advance the bill to the full Senate. The committees two Republicans voted no. One of them, Sen. Mike McLane of Powell Butte, called the bills removal of accelerated depreciation on equipment just another continual signal to investment communities and businesses that were not willing to cooperate. He praised Gov. Tina Koteks recent calls to improve Oregons business climate, her establishment of a Prosperity Council and her appointment of former Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp as the states inaugural prosperity officer. But he said rhetoric about prosperity wont cut it. She made (prosperity) her priority. And one of the first things we do when we come into session, were going to send her (this) bill, McLane said. So were going to see if the governors word is true, whether her walk is going to match her talk. The governors office did not respond to a request to explain her position on the bill Monday. Sen. Kathleen Taylor of Portland, one of the Democrats who voted yes, praised the bill as very, very balanced, noting in particular the tax credit for job creation and awarding larger tax credits to low-income working families. We have so many people who are struggling here in Oregon, she said. We have to make certain that were providing the services to those Oregonians during this difficult time. Although the bill as written will generate more than $300 million for the current state budget, the Legislatures top lawyers decided it does not qualify as a bill to raise revenue, a designation that triggers a requirement that three-fifths of the members of each chamber approve it. That means Democrats, who hold a supermajority in both chambers, could more easily push the bill through. While the bill does raise revenue, it does so by expanding the tax base, not by raising a tax rate, Legislative Revenue Officer Chris Allanach told The Oregonian/OregonLive. Courts have ruled that that distinction puts a bill outside the reach of the Oregon Constitutions three-fifths requirement, he said. The average taxpayer is expected to get a bigger refund this tax season under President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allows many people to claim bigger deductions or avoid paying taxes on things they once did. Among those new tax breaks are no taxes on tips, overtime or car loan interest as well as greater deductions for state and local taxes paid, parents and people 65 and older. But some of these frequently talked about provisions wont apply to most taxpayers, and the rules are complicated and peppered with exceptions. The Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan think tank in Washington, D.C., estimates that the average taxpayer could receive a refund thats anywhere from $300 to $1,000 more than previous years. Many Oregon taxpayers will also get additional money from the states kicker, which returns money to taxpayers when revenue is much higher than expected. Before you get any money, however, there are two important things you should do. One, to get Oregons kicker, you must be sure to have filled out your 2024 tax returns as well as your 2025 ones. Two, to receive any of the four new federal tax breaks on tips, overtime, car loan interest or for seniors, you must fill out a new Schedule 1-A form, which is available here. While the average taxpayer will see a fatter refund, the tax breaks also will have repercussions for the national deficit, causing it to balloon over a decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was passed by the Republican-controlled Congress, also comes with enormous benefits for big business and the rich. Meanwhile, it slashes health care for poor and older Americans and cuts food aid to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps. Oregon also is expected to lose significant tax income because, in general, Oregon automatically copies the tax cuts the federal government offers. A bill currently up in the Legislature would allow Oregon to recoup some of that money by disconnecting from several provisions in the bill. Heres what you need to know before you start filling out your 2025 taxes: Phasing out paper checks: With few exceptions, you wont get your money by paper check. So make sure you have a bank account and your accounts routing information so you can get your refund through direct deposit. If you dont, you may experience delays in getting your money. How much bigger will my federal refund be?: Last year, the average taxpayer received a refund of $3,167, according to the latest IRS figures available. This year, it could be $300 to $1,000 more because of any of the many new tax breaks that may apply to your individual situation. Standard deduction: This is the set amount that taxpayers can deduct from their taxable income. The standard deduction for the 2025 tax year will rise by $750 to $15,750 for single filers or married people filing separately. Itll increase by $1,500 for married couples filing jointly, to $31,500. No taxes on tips: Waiters, bartenders or others who customarily and regularly receive tips can avoid paying taxes on up to $25,000 of them. This tax break is designated for single filers with modified adjusted gross incomes of less than $150,000 per year or joint filers at less than $300,000 per year. Make more than that and the deduction starts to phase out. No taxes on overtime: Single filers can avoid paying taxes on up to $12,500 in overtime income, while joint filers can deduct up to $25,000 of their overtime pay. The deductions start phasing out for single filers with modified adjusted gross incomes of more than $150,000, or $300,000 for joint filers. No taxes on auto loan interest: Taxpayers who bought a new car, minivan, van, SUV, pickup truck or motorcycle for personal use can deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest per year, if their modified adjusted gross incomes are less than $100,000 per year for single filers, or $200,000 for joint filers. To qualify, the car must have undergone final assembly in the U.S. Deduct state and local taxes: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will allow taxpayers a much larger SALT (State and Local Taxes) deduction up to $40,000 instead of up to $10,000. That means a taxpayer who itemizes their deductions can avoid double taxation by preventing up to $40,000 of the income that they paid in state and local taxes, such as property and income tax, from being taxed federally. This mostly benefits wealthier taxpayers because they are more likely to pay higher amounts of income tax and own property that accumulates hefty tax bills. The $40,000 SALT deduction is available for people making less than $500,000 a year. Those making over that amount will receive a scaled-down, smaller deduction. About 90% of the people who take advantage of it make more than $100,000 a year. Child Tax Credit: This tax credit increases by $200 year over year, to $2,200 per child for the 2025 tax year. It applies to single filers with annual incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for joint filers. Above those thresholds, parents may be able to claim a partial credit. Older taxpayers: Many people 65 and older can claim a new, additional $6,000 deduction for single filers or $12,000 per married couple. The benefit starts phasing out for those with modified adjusted gross incomes over $75,000 or more than $150,000 for joint filers per year. Lastly, theres the Oregon kicker refund: Keep in mind that aside from the federal governments tax refunds, Oregon is sending taxpayers the fourth largest kicker in state history. The kicker returns state money to taxpayers when revenue is much higher than projected. But you wont get any cash from the kicker until you file your 2025 state taxes. You also must have filed a 2024 state tax return. You can find out precisely how much youre due by entering your Social Security Number and answering a few other simple questions here on the Oregon Department of Revenues website. In a few weeks, it will be time to set clocks ahead one hour for the start of daylight saving time. Daylight saving time has been observed throughout most of the United States since 1966, but now some are asking politicians to choose either permanent daylight saving time or permanent standard time. How much longer will we fall back and spring forward? Despite some efforts to end seasonal time changes, we will continue to spring forward in March and fall back in November for the foreseeable future. President Donald Trump expressed support for banning daylight saving time soon after the 2024 election. The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldnt! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. However, in 2025, Trump appeared to change his mind, saying that Congress should approve permanent daylight saving time. Some states, like Oregon, have proposed a change to observing daylight saving time year-round. But moving to permanent daylight saving time would require congressional approval, something that hasnt been forthcoming despite several states including Oregon, Washington and California pledging to do so if approved. Can Oregon opt out of daylight saving time? In 2024, an effort to place Oregon on year-round standard time died in the Legislature. Oregon Senate Bill 1548 passed the Senate but never made it out of committee in the House, effectively killing the measure. Another attempt in 2025 met a similar fate. When do we spring forward this year? Daylight saving time will begin at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8, 2026. Most devices these days will update automatically, but traditional clocks will need to be manually adjusted forward by one hour. When does standard time begin in 2026? Daylight saving time will end Sunday, Nov. 1, when we will fall back once again. noted that Amis was actually a sweetheart whod gone to the trouble of shipping his daughters stuffed anim I find myself thinking about the beauty of overflow; about the hypnotic effect of artistic exuberance; of the mystery of the fac I can see what is happening downstairs at the bara boy in a Dartmouth sweatshirt stares into his phone while his dateterrible ones Id just paid money to GAG DOWN because I Their gusto was on brand with that of a game-show host or some seasoned motivational speaker as they shouted into their blouse-pinned microphones.especially after I finally e My boyfriend sets up wood logs in the driveway of his parents house in New Jersey for me to practice; the Looks through the horizontal misty airShorn of his beams or from behind the moonIn dim eclipse disastrous twilight shedsOn half turning Florine Stettheimers airy comestibles into food-on-a-plate meant losing something of the artists spirit.The textured ceiling looks like a birthday cake that was fros One of the things you and I have talked about a lot is how layered my family story is as regards race.From All the Pretty Horses:He rode with the sun coppering his face and t In which direction was the wind blowing that night? It was most likely a gentle breeze blowing up to my house from the river. And is not to have thought to do / enough? Ben Am struggling to finish my notebooks: titled Stream of Consciousness as the publisher is eager to get on with it.police investigations determined that this Kevin Brazil had c News / National by Staff reporter A 49-year-old farmer from Suri Suri area in Chegutu has warned that crime does not pay, saying he lost his family and spent decades in prison after committing an offence over a US$30 salary dispute.Peter Jacob shared his story during a recent engagement at Harare Central Prison organised by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) in partnership with Desistance Champions, an organisation that supports former inmates.Jacob said he was convicted of murder after setting fire to the house of his former employer, a white female farm owner, at Pondoroza Farm in Marondera, Mashonaland East, in 1998. At the time, he was earning US$30 per month and claimed his employer had delayed paying his wages."I was working at Pondoroza Farm in Marondera, owned by Janet Jackson, earning US$30 per month. When my employer delayed paying my salary in 1998, I developed anger and decided to hurt her by burning down her house, which was a thatched structure," said Jacob.He said on the day of the incident, he saw his employer leaving for Harare and assumed she would not be at home. His intention, he claimed, was to destroy property, not to kill."Later that night, I went and set the house on fire without knowing that she had returned. The house was completely destroyed and she died in the fire. I was arrested, tried in 1999 and sentenced to death," he said.Jacob said he spent years on death row before his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. He was eventually released on 5 May 2020 under a Presidential amnesty."I lived for many years expecting to be executed until my sentence was changed to life imprisonment. I deeply regret my actions and I ask the victim's family to forgive me. I realised that crime does not pay after I found my wife had left with our child and my home was destroyed," he said.After his release, Jacob said he was allocated land which he is now farming. He added that he later remarried and now has two children, although his first child left with his former wife while he was incarcerated and is now grown up.Desistance Champions chairperson, Trevor Kunaka, said the organisation runs programmes aimed at assisting former inmates to reintegrate into society by supporting them to start income-generating projects and rebuild their lives after prison. and how the nurses called them the newlyweds even though they were older and had by then been married a while.in Exodus 15; the canticle of Deborah and Barak in Judges 5; th It was obvious to me that many people were busy penning exactly those kinds of things within minutes after the planes crashed into the Trade Centerthats show biz.Her introdu The shape of the book had distortedit was narrow at the spine but expanded at the right edge to accommodate the contents.I dont see this as a metaphorical value b which was laughably general and yet strangely precise: symptoms claimed to con OKLAHOMA CITY A Colombian flag hangs in an Oklahoma City upholstery shop above armchairs, sofa cushions, furniture trim and bottles of wood stains. A piece of brown paper bearing Spanish words for measurements and upholstery materials covers several feet of a wall. Once used to break down a language barrier and celebrate a new Colombian employee, the paper and flag are now mementos of Alejandro Toro Sepulveda. The beloved shop worker was detained and deported to Colombia with his wife and three children in December. In a phone interview from Bogota, Toro Sepulveda, 42, said he and his wife signed a self-deportation agreement after Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained them, their 7-year-old daughter and their 1-year-old twins while on a visit to Texas. Rather than risk months in detention with three young children, two of whom are U.S. citizens, he said they chose voluntary deportation as a quicker resolution that kept the family together. NEWSLETTERS * required Thank you for subscribing! Email * Please enter a valid email address First Name Last Name A few times a week FREE SIGN UP Subscribing... If I had been alone, believe me, Id stay, he said in Spanish. A single person stays locked up until a judge looks at him or until the case is defined or something. But really, I had two babies and my daughter. ICE did not return repeated emailed requests for comment for this story. The Trump administration has contended ICE is focused on arresting the worst of the worst. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said recently that 70% of ICE arrests are of immigrants charged or convicted of a crime in the U.S. But as the Trump administration ramped up immigration detentions nationwide, ICE data showed a growing number of its arrests targeted people who dont have a criminal history after entering the country. Immigrants, regardless of their legal status, are not more likely to commit crimes and are imprisoned at lower rates than U.S.-born individuals, multiple studies have found. ICE did not answer whether Toro Sepulveda was charged or convicted in the U.S. of any criminal offenses. Oklahoma Voice searched his name in district and federal courts in the three states where he lived and found no record of a criminal history. Toro Sepulveda said he and his family crossed the border in 2023 without legal authorization, which is considered a misdemeanor offense under federal law. For that, he believes ICE took them into custody during a December traffic stop. He said he came to the U.S. and applied for asylum because the multinational gang Tren de Aragua threatened to extort his upholstery and furniture business in Bogota. I speak for people like me, he said. We are good, and we are not going to the United States to create problems. Unfortunately, our country is very beautiful and offers many opportunities, but there is a lot of corruption. There is a lot of corruption, many bad things and a lot of crime. A person must be physically present in the U.S. to apply for asylum, which offers residency to non-citizens who fear they will suffer persecution in their home countries specifically because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinions or membership in a particular group. U.S. law permits asylum for victims of severe criminal extortion as long as they were targeted for one of those five listed grounds. Toro Sepulveda was one of 945,000 applicants for asylum in the U.S. in 2023. His home country of Colombia was the source of the third-largest group of asylum seekers, behind Venezuela and Cuba. Convicted criminals made up 33% of immigration arrests in Oklahoma and 40% in Texas, according to a Stateline analysis of ICE data compiled in the Deportation Data Project. Documents Toro Sepulveda shared with Oklahoma Voice show he crossed the U.S.-Mexico border at or near Eagle Pass, Texas, in July 2023. The documents state U.S. Border Patrol detained and then released him on his own recognizance with an order to appear in immigration court in New Jersey, where Toro Sepulveda had sought work. He said he crossed the border with his wife and daughter, believing they had no possible option to make the crossing with authorization, even after working with a lawyer in Colombia. His youngest two children were born after moving to the U.S., he said. With his asylum case ongoing, Toro Sepulveda obtained an employment authorization document, a drivers license and a social security number all of which Oklahoma Voice has reviewed so he could begin working and paying taxes in the U.S. Obtaining these documents is typical for individuals waiting years in the country for their asylum cases to resolve. His employment authorization permit has a C08 classification, which identifies individuals with a pending asylum application. Online immigration court records show his next court date would have been in 2029. Asylum and immigration cases typically take years to resolve. The family lived in New Jersey and Texas before settling in Oklahoma City in September. They made the move to Oklahoma so Toro Sepulveda could work for local upholsterer Krysta Henry at her shop, All in One Piece. He said he was looking for a new job and reached out to Henry after seeing images of her work. She brought him to Oklahoma City for a test, gave him the hardest chair in her shop and he nailed it, she said. Henry said her business started thriving when Toro Sepulveda began working there. Hes a quick, highly skilled worker who enabled her to take on more business than ever before, she said. He also earned more money while working fewer hours than at his previous jobs, leaving him with more time to spend with his family. Despite speaking different languages, Toro Sepulveda and Henry became close friends, both said. She bought translator devices and started studying Spanish so they could better communicate. His deportation, she said, has been like losing a brother. Our government is lying to us, Henry said. Thats why Im telling this story. Its because theyre saying theyre taking criminals when Alejandro literally has never done anything. I dont think hes ever done anything wrong. Toro Sepulvedas dreams of living in Oklahoma long term ended abruptly a few days before Christmas while visiting friends in Dallas. He said ICE agents stopped him as he was driving with his wife and children to a gas station, and they took the family into custody. Toro Sepulveda said he believes ICE happened to be patrolling in the area and noticed him swerve slightly, possibly prompting the traffic stop. After taking the family into custody, federal agents kept Toro Sepulveda in a different detention center from where his wife and children were held, he said. They voluntarily left for Colombia on Christmas Eve after two days in custody. Being there, that was what I realized, that all the people who are locked up and who are kept locked up for six months, for eight months, for a long time, it is for the same reason, he said. When you cling to staying and staying, thats why youve been locked up. For decades, immigrants like Toro Sepulveda have been permitted to enter the country after being detained at the U.S.-Mexico border and allowed to stay under an order of supervision while their immigration cases were pending. ICE, now, has been taking many of those immigrants back into custody without needing an arrest warrant, said Michael Brooks Jimenez, an immigration attorney and Democratic state senator from Oklahoma City. He said many choose a voluntary departure rather than being held for several months while their case is in process. In the heavily Latino area of south Oklahoma City, ICE agents have been patrolling in unmarked vehicles and stopping work trucks of roofers, painters and electricians, Brooks Jimenez said. It doesnt seem like theres a rhyme or reason to it, and it doesnt necessarily seem like theyre going after the bad guys like the current administration has asserted, he said. Immigration enforcement efforts in Oklahoma also have focused heavily on apprehending commercial truckers driving on interstate highways. Others who were detained, Brooks Jimenez said, were asylum seekers arriving at the local ICE office for routine check-ins to comply with their supervision orders. Records from the Deportation Data Project indicate arrests at check-ins have occurred thousands of times across the U.S. The Trump administration also convinced courts across the country to dismiss deportation cases against immigrants and then immediately detained them for expedited removal. The federal government is seeking to expand its previous expedited removal policy, arguing before a U.S. Court of Appeals that expedited removals should apply to any immigrant who entered without legal authorization and has lived in the country for under two years. ICE did not say if Toro Sepulveda and his family received any compensation under President Donald Trumps highly touted program that purports to award a stipend of $1,000 to any immigrant who self-deports. The Home Self-Deportation program could help preserve the ability for someone to lawfully reenter in the future, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Now back in Colombia, Toro Sepulveda said returning to his home country has been a shock, despite how much he tried to mentally prepare for the possibility. Working with Henry in Oklahoma City was the best thing that could have happened to me, Toro Sepulveda said. He said he hopes to come back to the U.S. through Henry sponsoring a work visa. Only a limited number of those visas are granted, though, and theyre in extremely high demand, Brooks Jimenez said. Immigrants who have lived in the U.S. for more than a year after entering without legal authorization incur a 10-year penalty when they leave the country for any reason, not only for deportation, Brooks Jimenez said. People who choose a voluntary departure, though, have more opportunities to return legally and sooner than those who were involuntarily deported, according to guidance from the U.S. Department of Justice. From her shop in Oklahoma City, Henry said she realizes Toro Sepulvedas case is one of many and that bringing him back could take years. She plans to visit him in Colombia to speak with an attorney to explore options to help him return. In the meantime, shes been raising funds to support Toro Sepulveda as he opens his own upholstery shop, which will have the same name as her business, All in One Piece, translated into Spanish, Todo en una Sola Pieza. He was here, he was contributing, he was working, she said. He was absolutely a better f****** U.S. citizen than I am. He never once said anything bad about this country. Oklahoma Voice is an affiliate of States Newsroom, a nation 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by grants and donations focused on delivering state government news. The Voice maintains full editorial independence. For more stories by Oklahoma Voice go to oklahomavoice.com. Its been more than a year since the shooting death of Lionardo Hernandez Zarata at his out-of-control birthday party in the Poconos, and authorities are no closer to a trial than they were on the day of the killing. Hernandez Zarata was killed Jan. 12, 2025, at a short-term rental property where he was celebrating a multi-day birthday party in Tunkhannock Township, Monroe County, according to police. The party was advertised with flyers and packed with Venezuelan guests, police said. Police charged three alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang with the killing. They allegedly killed Hernandez Zarata because he didnt pay the disc jockey at the party. The Venezuelans charged with criminal homicide are: Oswaldo Odin Soloranzo Sosa, 37, who is a fugitive Oscar Quilarque Sosa, 32, who is in federal custody in New York on gun and drug charges Josthin Landaeta Perez, 25, who is in the Rikers Island jail complex awaiting trial on an armed robbery charge in the Bronx. None of the men has been arraigned for the Pennsylvania homicide. None has been assigned a lawyer for the case. Quilarque Sosa and Landaeta Perez have remained in New York on out-of-state charges, which means their homicide trials remain postponed indefinitely. There are some logistical hurdles with transferring them between states, said Pocono Mountain Regional Police Chief Chris Wagner in an email Tuesday. Monroe County District Attorney Michael Mancuso said he cant comment on the cases because the matter remains active and sensitive and any public comment from this office could jeopardize the integrity of the investigation and the defendants rights to a fair process. Attorneys consulted by lehighvalleylive.com agreed that the federal and state authorities in New York have discretion to hold the men until their New York charges are disposed of regardless of whether the Pennsylvania crimes are more serious. They now have primary custody. So they have the discretion to hand those two over to Monroe County or to hold them until their charges are disposed of, said Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Holihan. Longtime criminal defenders John Waldron of Allentown and Gary Asteak of Easton agreed. Theres not much local prosecutors can do to bring the defendants here. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Eastern District of New York had no comment on whether Quilarque Sosa would be sent to Pennsylvania soon or whether his gun and drug charges would be disposed of soon. A spokeswoman for the Bronx District Attorneys office wasnt sure when Landaeta Perezs New York case would be resolved and when he would be sent to Pennsylvania. She said he has a court date in early March. And when their New York cases are disposed of, its not clear whether the mens immigration status will bring them into the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and possibly deported. None of the federal or state authorities would comment on that possibility. A spokesperson for ICE didnt return several messages. Wagner said Monroe County authorities wont let Quilarque Sosa and Landaeta Perez be sent to Venezuela before theyre tried in Pennsylvania. We (PMRPD) are not in favor of deportation in the case in the interest of justice, Wagner said. The district attorneys in Lehigh and Northampton counties agree that Monroe County must take care to document its attempts to bring Quilarque Sosa and Landaeta Perez back to Pennsylvania. If they dont carefully document efforts to bring them here, the men could claim their right to a speedy homicide trial has been violated. The case law suggests that the mere filing of the charges is not enough (to fend off a challenge over the right to a speedy trial), especially when the location of the defendant is known, said Northampton County District Attorney Stephen Baratta. In these cases, the DA needs to do something to protect the record. When asked whether this is a complicated process, District Attorney Holihan said, Yes, thats fair to say. Monroe County has to exercise due diligence in requesting that the defendants be returned to Monroe County, Holihan added. Wagner said Quilarque Sosa and Landaeta Perez will be prosecuted in Monroe County, no matter how long it takes. Even Soloranzo Sosa, the fugitive, could claim his right to a speedy trial has been violated unless the Monroe County District Attorney takes care to document steps taken to find him, Holihan said. They need to check old addresses, check databases, talk to his old acquaintances and show they made a reasonable effort to find Soloranzo Sosa, he said. Wagner said police believe Soloranzo Sosa has left the United States. Local police are working with federal authorities to find him. When Quilarque Sosa and Landaeta Perez finally come back to Pennsylvania and trial preparations begin, prosecutors will have to overcome the long delay between the crime and the trial date. Its common for a homicide trial to take a year for preparation, which would put their trials at least two years after their alleged crimes. Criminal cases that are languishing often become harder to prosecute for several reasons including death or unavailability of witnesses, police officers moving on to other jobs, and the aging process related to memory and recall of witnesses, Baratta said. Landaeta Perez remains in New York on pending charges that he went into a womans apartment in the Bronx on Nov. 21, 2024, then pistol whipped and robbed her, according to the Bronx District Attorney spokeswoman. She said hes represented by Bronx Defenders. No one from that organization returned a message looking for information about that case. Landaeta Perez is charged with four counts of robbery, six counts of burglary, four weapons charges, assault, criminal trespass, larceny, strangulation and criminal obstruction of breathing in New York. Hes been at Rikers Island since Feb. 1, 2025, online court records say. Quilarque Sosa allegedly trafficked guns between October and November 2024 in Queens, New York, according to his federal indictment. He allegedly possessed six pistols and five rifles during that period despite his immigration status, records say. He also possessed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, ecstasy and ketamine with the intention of distributing them, records say. His attorneys and the prosecutors didnt return messages seeking information about his case. His trial has been delayed several times since he was indicted Jan. 8, 2025. His next court date is April 6. If he goes to trial, a court document says the trial is estimated to last more than six weeks. The online federal inmate locator says Quilarque Sosa was released from federal prison in October 2025, but Wagner says that information is incorrect and that Quilarque Sosa remains in federal custody. Police found shell casings of different calibers and bullet holes in the walls of the home where Hernandez Zarata was killed. Drugs were found throughout the home, police said. It took Monroe County law enforcement almost two months to zero in on the three homicide suspects. They were charged March 7, 2025, according to a news release from the Monroe County District Attorney. Guests fled after the shots rang out, leaving their suitcases in the driveway along with cell phones, cash and Venezuelan identification cards, the news release said. Police said the guests feared retaliation from the Tren de Aragua gang. This organizations presence has been documented recently in the media for their violent crimes throughout the United States, District Attorney Mancuso wrote. So their prosecution remains a priority for Monroe County authorities. We are working with NYPD, NY Prisons, and federal authorities to keep Sosa and Perez within the jurisdiction of the United States and bring them to trial in Monroe County, Wagner said. A Philadelphia man was arrested on Sunday after a womans body was discovered in Bucks County. Yujun Ren, 32, has been charged charged with criminal homicide, possession of an instrument of crime, and stalking. Police in Bristol Township said that Ren turned himself in at about 12:30 p.m. Sunday, according to 6ABC. After speaking with him, officers went to a home located along Outlook Lane and found a woman who had been shot in a car. She was pronounced dead at the scene. According to a statement from Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan, the woman, whose identity has not yet been released, had reported a sexual assault incident to Philadelphia police on Saturday. Khan said the victim tried to end a relationship with Ren, and that he began her on Sunday morning and shot her while she was inside her vehicle. Todays tragic event is a sobering reminder of the lethal nature of domestic violence, Khans statement said. Thanks to the swift, coordinated response from the Bristol Township Police Department, the Middletown Township Police Department, and our Bucks County Detectives, we have successfully taken the defendant into custody and the community is safe. We are committed to seeking justice for the victim, he concluded. A cause of death has been announced for actress Catherine OHara, who passed away on Jan. 30 at the age of 71. TMZ reported that the Los Angeles County Medical Examiners Office listed the immediate cause of death as pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is when a clot blocks blood flow to an artery in the lung, according to the Mayo Clinic. Rectal cancer, however, was listed as the underlying cause. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. OHara was cremated and her remains were given to her husband, Robert Welch, TMZ said. A representative for the actress had initially said she died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness. Having gotten her start on the Canadian comedy sketch show SCTV along with such luminaries as John Candy, Eugene Levy and Martin Short OHara appeared in over 100 roles in movies and television, including starring roles in Home Alone, Beetlejuice, Waiting for Guffman, After Hours Best in Show and Schitts Creek. She most recently played Seth Rogans mentor on the Apple TV series The Studio. What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine OHaras brilliance for all those years. Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family, Schitts Creek co-star Dan Levy said in a statement. Its hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her. News / National by Staff reporter Villagers in Makumbe, Buhera West, have raised alarm over what they describe as the illegal parcelling and sale of communal land by suspected land barons, a situation they say has triggered violent disputes, court battles and threats that are destabilising the community.Traditional leaders accuse a local man, William Ngundu, of unlawfully allocating and selling communal land without authority, allegedly demanding cash or livestock from families for land which, under customary law, cannot be sold.The dispute has exposed a growing crisis in rural Zimbabwe, where alleged land barons are accused of exploiting communal areas, undermining traditional leadership structures and fuelling conflicts that residents fear could turn deadly if authorities fail to intervene.Village head Abia Makumbe said the land in question falls under the Makumbe chiefdom and is protected by customary law."This land belongs to our ancestors and it is not for sale," he said."He came from another area and started allocating land without following the law. Our community is now living in conflict."Another village head, Stanford Gwinyi, warned that tensions in the area are escalating rapidly."These actions are causing serious disagreements that can lead to death," he said. "We are asking the government to intervene before lives are lost."Several villagers claim they were pressured into paying for land out of fear of eviction.Agatha Mhosva said she was ordered to pay US$300 to retain land she had occupied for many years."He sold my land to other people and told me I must pay to stay," she said. "He even claimed he is more powerful than the magistrates' court."Noah Chigidi said he paid for land because he had no alternative."I was scared of being homeless," he said. "After that, he threatened to evict me and forced me to work in his fields."Cephas Mukono said his family paid two head of cattle for land that is now under dispute."He told us he was the chief and that he was selling land," he said. "Now we are being told we may never live there."The disputes have spilled into the courts. Raymond Makumbe said his grandfather's field was sold without the family's consent, resulting in a High Court ruling in October last year ordering that the land be returned."The court gave us our land back, but tensions are still high," he said.Contacted for comment, Ngundu denied selling land illegally and insisted that he is the legitimate traditional authority in the area."There are cultural processes when land is allocated," he said. "That should not be called selling land."Ngundu said an eviction order affecting several families was being contested and called for government intervention, arguing that the court judgment was flawed. Lynn Blakey, a beloved country and rock music musician, has died. Her exact age has not been reported, but Parade Magazine reported that she was in her early 60s. Her cause of death was also not reported. The great Lynn Blakey has passed, author Bob Mehr, who wrote Trouble Boys: The True Story of the Replacements posted on Instagram. A North Carolina-based musician, Lynn played with Lets Active, Oh-OK, & Tres Chicas & inspired one the greatest songs of all time, The Replacements Left of the Dial. On one level Left of the Dial celebrated the 80s American indie scene and paid tribute to the tiny-watt college stations at the far end of the FM dial, where the Replacements got most of their airplay, Mehr added. But it was also a love song, an evocation of Paul Westerbergs infatuation with Blakey. They first met when the Mats & Lets Active shared a bill at San Frans I-Beam in late 83. He bummed cigarettes off her & they spent hours walking & talking in the rain. Blakey told Mehr that she thought Paul decided he had a crush on me. I was in love with the idea of being in love with her, Westerburg told Mehr. I used that to pine with. Mehr wrote that Blakey eventually moved to Athens the land of sweet Goergia breezes to join the band Oh-OK. The song is about the first year of Paul and I meeting and hitting it off and logistically it not working out, Blakey told Mehr. Im very sorry for her loss, he added. Sending condolences to her husband and Ecki & all her loved ones. Blakey formed the country group Tres Chicas with Caitlin Cary and Tonya Lamm in 1999. By Gavin J. Quinton, Los Angeles Times (TNS) The White Houses TrumpRx website went live Thursday with a promise to instantly deliver prescription drugs at the lowest price anywhere in the world. This launch represents the largest reduction in prescription drug prices in history by many, many times, and its not even close, President Trump said at a news conference announcing the launch of the platform. Drug policy experts say the jury is still out on whether the platform will provide the significant savings Trump promises, though it will probably help people who need drugs not commonly covered by insurance. Senate Democrats, meanwhile, called the site a vanity project and questioned whether the program presents a possible conflict of interest involving the pharmaceutical industry and the Trump family. What is TrumpRx, really? The new platform, trumprx.gov, is designed to help uninsured Americans find discounted prices for high-cost, brand-name prescriptions, including fertility, obesity and diabetes treatments. The site does not directly sell drugs. Instead, consumers browse a list of discounted medicines and select one for purchase. From there, they either receive a coupon accepted at certain pharmacies or are routed directly to a drug manufacturers website to purchase the prescription. The White House said the reduced prices are possible after the administration negotiated voluntary most favored nation agreements with 16 major drugmakers, including Pfizer, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. Under these deals, manufacturers have agreed to set certain U.S. drug prices no higher than those paid in other wealthy nations in exchange for three-year tariff exemptions. However, the full legal and financial details of the deals have not been made public, leaving lawmakers to speculate how TrumpRxs pricing model works. What does it accomplish? Though the White House has framed TrumpRx as a historic reset for prescription drug costs, economists said the platform offers limited new savings. But it does move the needle on the issue of drug pricing transparency, away from the hidden mechanisms behind how prescription drugs are priced, rebated and distributed, according to Geoffrey Joyce, director of health policy at the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. This has been a murky world, a terrible, obscure, opaque marketplace where drug prices have been inconsistently priced to different consumers, Joyce said, So this is a little step in the right direction, but its mostly performative from my perspective, which is kind of Trump in a nutshell. Still, for the uninsured or people seeking lifestyle drugs like those for fertility or weight loss that insurers have historically declined to cover TrumpRx could become a useful option, Joyce said. Its kind of a win for Trump and a win for Pfizer, Joyce said. They get to say, Look what were doing. Were lowering prices. Were keeping Trump happy, but its on our low-volume drugs, and drugs that we were discounting big time anyway. Where does it fall short? Early analyses by drug policy experts suggest many of the discounted medications listed on the TrumpRx site were already on offer through other drug databases before the platform launched. For example, Pfizers Duavee menopause treatment is listed at $30.30 on TrumpRx, but it is also available for the same price at some pharmacies via GoodRx. Weight management drug Wegovy starts at $199 on TrumpRx. Manufacturers were already selling the same discounted rates through its NovoCare Pharmacy program before the portals launch. [TrumpRX] uses data from GoodRx, an existing price-search database for prescription drugs, said Darius N. Lakdawalla, a senior health policy researcher at USC. It seems to provide prices that are essentially the same as the lowest price GoodRx reports on its website. Compared to GoodRx, TrumpRx covers a modest subset of drugs: 43 in all. Uninsured consumers, who do not use or know about GoodRx and need one of the specific drugs covered by the site, might benefit from TrumpRx. That seems like a very specific set of people, Lakdawalla said. Where do Democrats stand? Democrats slammed the program this week, saying it would not provide substantial discounts for patients, and called for greater transparency around the administrations dealings with drugmakers. To date, the administration has not disclosed the terms of the pricing agreements with manufacturers such as Pfizer and AstraZeneca. In the lead-up to the TrumpRx launch, Democratic members of Congress questioned its usefulness and urged federal health regulators to delay its debut. This is just another Donald Trump pet project to rebrand something that already exists, take credit for it, and do nothing to actually lower health care prices, Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., said Friday. Democrats will continue fighting to lower health care costs and push Republicans to stop giving handouts to billionaires at the expense of working-class Americans. Three other Democratic senators Dick Durbin, Elizabeth Warren and Peter Welch raised another concern in a Jan. 29 letter to Thomas March Bell, inspector general for the Department of Health and Human Services. The three senators pointed to potential conflicts of interest between TrumpRx and an online dispensing company, BlinkRx. One of Trumps sons, Donald Trump Jr., joined the BlinkRx Board of Directors in February 2025. Months before, he became a partner at 1789 Capital, a venture capital firm that holds a significant stake in BlinkRx and led the startups $140-million funding round in 2024. After his appointment, BlinkRx launched a service to help pharmaceutical companies build direct-to-patient sales platforms quickly. The timing of the BlinkRx announcement so closely following the administrations outreach to the largest drug companies, and the involvement of President Trumps immediate family, raises questions about potential coordination, influence and self-dealing, according to an October 2025 statement by Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Both BlinkRx and Donald Trump Jr. have denied any coordination. Whats next? The rollout of TrumpRx fits into a suite of White House programs designed to address rising costs, an area of vulnerability for Republicans ahead of the November midterms. The White House issued a statement Friday urging support for the presidents health care initiative, dubbed the great health care plan, which it said will further reduce drug prices and lower insurance premiums. For the roughly 8% of Americans without health insurance, TrumpRxs website promises that more high-cost, brand-name drugs will be discounted on the platform in the future. Its possible the benefits will become broader in the future, Lakdawalla said. I would say that the jury remains out on its long-run structure and its long-run pricing effects. 2026 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Story by Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG For the past six months, Gov. Josh Shapiro has been entangled in an intense but largely behind-the-scenes property dispute with one of his neighbors in Montgomery County. On Monday, that dispute spilled into the public domain in dramatic fashion with a pair of dueling lawsuits that allege everything from harassment to trespassing to politics to abuse of power. On the one side are Shapiros neighbors, Montgomery County residents Jeremy and Simone Mock, who on Monday filed a federal lawsuit alleging the Democratic governor abused the power of his position and unlawfully took possession of part of their property to make security upgrades following last years brazen arson attack on the first family. The Mocks allege Shapiro even deployed Pennsylvania State Police troopers to patrol the disputed piece of land. On the other side are Shapiro and his wife, Lori, who on Monday countersued in Montgomery Countys Court of Common Pleas, asserting theyve maintained the disputed parcel of land during the nearly 25 years theyve lived there and own it as a matter of law by adverse possession. They also claim the Mocks harassed them over the summer with signs along the disputed area. A spokesperson for the governor called the Mocks lawsuit a shameless political stunt, citing the couples attorneys involvement in 2020 election-related litigation. The dueling lawsuits over a relatively prosaic issue could end up being an unwelcome distraction for Shapiro, who just published his memoir and is widely expected to run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028. The dispute involves a roughly 3,000-square-foot area along the boundary line between the Shapiros and the Mocks. The Shapiros allege in their lawsuit that when they purchased their family home there in 2003, there was a fence, and that a tree line just beyond it separated their property from the Mocks. This summer, the Shapiros discovered that the parcel they always thought was theirs fell outside the land their deed said they owned. At the time, the Shapiros were making extensive security upgrades to their private home that State Police recommended in the aftermath of an arson attack at the state-owned governors mansion in Harrisburg. That included replacing the old fence with a new one. Spotlight PA has reported the upgrades paid for with taxpayer dollars cost nearly $1.1 million, and included extensive landscaping along the property. The Mocks allege in their lawsuit that the Shapiros approached them in July of last year and said they wanted to purchase the disputed parcel. When the households couldnt agree on a price, they began to discuss the possibility of the Shapiros leasing it. In their lawsuit, the Mocks included a photo they claim shows State Police patrolling and occupying their property. Screenshot via lawsuit But the negotiations broke down. Soon after, a lawyer for the Shapiros contacted the Mocks and told them the Shapiros would be taking alternative actions, the Mocks allege. What followed was an outrageous abuse of power by the sitting Governor of Pennsylvania and its former Attorney General, the Mocks say in their 11-page lawsuit. Walter S. Zimolong III, the Mocks lawyer, declined to comment. The Mocks allege the Shapiros claimed the disputed land as their own through adverse possession, an arcane real estate process by which a person can take legal title of a property if they can prove theyve occupied and used it exclusively for a period of time (in Pennsylvania, that is 21 years). Soon after, the Shapiros began planting trees and other plants there, and flying a drone over the Mock property, the lawsuit says. Worse and most egregiously, upon information and belief, Gov. Shapiro personally directed the State Police to patrol the Mock property, according to the lawsuit, which also includes a picture of two troopers standing at the alleged disputed site. On multiple occasions, when the Mocks have attempted to use their property, the State Police have insisted the area was disputed and told them to immediately exit their property. In their lawsuit, the Shapiros say that once negotiations broke down, they scrapped their plan to erect a new fence and their attorney informed the Mocks they were taking control of the parcel through adverse possession. They allege the Mocks had not used or maintained it since moving into their house in 2017, nor had they voiced any objection to the Shapiros using it as their own. The situation allegedly escalated from there. The Shapiros say in their lawsuit that the Mocks decided to build their own fence that would encroach on the disputed parcel. Despite being told they would not have access to it, the Shapiros said the Mocks hired a surveyor who showed up unannounced and was ultimately denied access by the governors security detail. That is when the Mocks allegedly posted a provocative sign on a tree in the disputed area, claiming it as their own, according to Shapiros lawsuit. The Mocks also allegedly contacted local police to have the Shapiros charged with criminal trespass. The alleged harassment, the Shapiros lawsuit states, constitutes a private nuisance, interferes with the Shapiros enjoyment of the property, and poses an ongoing security threat. The Mocks seek, among other things, damages as well as an injunction on the Shapiros from using the property. The Shapiros also seek an injunction, as well as attorneys fees and such other and further relief as the Court considers just, fair, and equitable, according to Shapiros lawsuit. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. Gentlemen you have failed us! You say nothing as the Constitutionally guaranteed rights of all US citizens are being violated and targeted in Minnesota. You blame the rhetoric from the local politicians yet, the guy in the White House cant seem to stop stoking the fires of unrest with his rhetoric. ICE is a domestic terrorist, U.S. government-based organization. Our country is looking like Germany in the 1930s. A journalist doing his work guaranteed by the First Amendment is arrested because he is saying things not in line with the administration. The 2020 voting records in Georgia are being taken by the FBI which looks like election interference brewing for our 2026 elections. The Department of Justice is no longer an independent entity since it is targeting people saying things the administration does not like. You continue to say, and do, nothing. As I recall, you swore an oath to the Constitution and to defend it against all enemies foreign and domestic. The lines in the sand are being drawn and the red flags are everywhere. We are a country in crisis and the majority of our citizens do not want a dictatorship or authoritarian rule. Will you stand for the Constitution? Will you do what is right? Will you hold this administration accountable? If you answer no to any of these questions, you are supporting the very tyranny the Constitution warned us about. Scott Hoffman, Harrisburg. Pa. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks put a pin on a map of the Lehigh Valley to show the location of a new drug manufacturing facility planned for Upper Macungie Township. The announcement was at the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown on Jan, 30, 2026. Photo by Donna Fisher, courtesy of Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation By Zach Silber The future of American manufacturing is taking shape in Pennsylvania. And many of the jobs being created dont just come with hard hats they come with lab coats. Eli Lillys $3.5 billion facility in the Lehigh Valley will create 2,000 construction jobs and employ 850 technicians, engineers, and scientists to produce next-generation weight-loss medicine. Lilly CEO Dave Ricks said that the average wage at the companys facilities is about $100,000 a year jobs that change the trajectory of families. Every worker, he added, has the same top shelf healthcare he does. The Commonwealth has committed $100 million to the deal, including $5 million for local community and technical colleges to train the people who will fill those roles. Ricks noted that a ready workforce is rarely waiting on the ground. Its about partnership with local institutions, he said. The announcement arrives amid a national reshoring wave. U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturing commitments topped $475 billion last year, according to real estate firm JLL driven by a post-COVID push to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains and accelerated by the Trump administrations focus on domestic production. Pennsylvania is capturing a significant share of the action. In September, GSK announced a new factory in Upper Merion. In November, Lilly announced plans to open a 44,000 square foot outpost of its Gateway Labs R&D incubator in Center City putting Philadelphia on par with Boston, San Francisco, and San Diego as the only U.S. cities to host Lillys innovation hub. Last month, Johnson & Johnson committed to build a next-generation cell therapy plant in the Commonwealth. Add in expansions over the past six months from Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories, Apozeal Pharmaceuticals, and B. Braun, and a pattern emerges. This isnt a series of isolated wins. Its a cluster and clusters change the trajectory of careers, families, and communities. When companies concentrate in a region, workers can build careers across multiple facilities without moving. An industry becomes part of the culture of a place, with awareness and education starting at the earliest ages. The investment compounds over decades. The jobs being created arent the factory roles of a generation ago. After Lillys announcement, I asked Paul Anthony, president of Lehigh Valley Building Trades, what people interested in these jobs could do to get ready. He pointed to apprenticeship programs and had one piece of advice: Upgrade your math skills thats the number one thing applicants need to work on. These are high-tech positions, he noted. For readers wondering what this means for them or their kids: doors are opening. The pharmaceutical industry is hiring, investing in training, and building facilities that will operate for decades. The question is whos ready to be part of it. Zach Silber is a contributor to PennLive.com and its parent company, Advance Local, on the intersection of economic development, workforce development, and industrial innovation. News / National by Staff reporter A Harare car dealer is counting his losses after being defrauded by a bogus dealer whom he paid more than US$50 000 to clear five trucks at the South African border.The suspect, Tichaona Mupo Mhlakaza, appeared in court over the weekend but was not asked to plead. He is expected back in court today for a bail hearing.Prosecutors allege that in January last year, Peter Sine purchased four tipper trucks in Durban, South Africa, intending to bring them into Zimbabwe. He subsequently sought assistance with the customs clearance process.In the same month, Sine engaged Mhlakaza, who claimed to be an agent of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). Mhlakaza allegedly told Sine he could facilitate the clearance of the trucks for a total cost of US$52 792.On January 20, Mhlakaza sent Sine a purported proof of payment, claiming he had already paid the customs duty of ZiG1 626 000 through a ZIMRA agent named Globetrek Logistics. That same day, the two met at the corner of Leonard Brezhnev Street and Kwame Nkurumah Avenue in Harare, where Sine handed over US$52 792 to Mhlakaza.However, on February 2 this year, Sine checked with ZIMRA to confirm the payment and discovered that no customs duty had been paid, contradicting the proof Mhlakaza had provided.When Sine followed up, Mhlakaza allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations and attempted to implicate someone named Lloyd Mawadze, whom Sine did not know, as the originator of the fake payment document.Realising he had been defrauded, Sine filed a police report, leading to Mhlakaza's arrest. As of now, no funds have been recovered.Police investigations into the matter are ongoing. First PLO Event at Onyx HRS Crowns a Winner Tim Baker Live Reporter Copy link The 2026 Onyx High Roller Series has its first four-card champion, with Russia's Artur Vyborov coming out on top of a 232-entry field in the $10,000 Pot-Limit Omaha Opener claiming the trophy and the $450,000 first-place prize from the $2,180,800 prize pool. I feel great, actually, Vyborov said afterward. Im very tired, but its the first win for me, so Im very happy to be here. As the opening PLO event of the series, the tournament proved hugely popular, drawing a bigger field than the No-Limit Holdem version a week ago. Vyborov stayed patient throughout Day 2 and spent much of the day near the bottom of the chip counts, but picked his spots well and eventually battled his way through a final table littered with proven PLO wizards and represented by nine different nations. Among those falling short at the final table were Laszlo Bujtas and Tom Vogelsang, while Aren Bezhanyan and Quan Zhou joined Vyborov on the podium. Heads-up, Vyborov made swift work of Bezhanyan to deny the Armenian pro a second Onyx title. $10,000 PLO Opener Final Table Results Place Player Country Prize 1 Artur Vyborov Russian Federation $450,000 2 Aren Bezhanyan Armenia $312,000 3 Quan Zhou China $225,000 4 Jeremy Trojand Germany $160,000 5 Laszlo Bujtas Hungary $115,000 6 Thomas Eychenne France $85,000 7 Belarmino De Souza Brazil $67,000 8 Joni Jouhkimainen Finland $57,000 9 Tom Vogelsang Netherlands $48,800 Winners Reaction Vyborov was a man of few words after the win, admitting the long day had taken its toll. Today, I think there wont be any celebration, he said with a smile. Ill just go to sleep, and all the celebration will be tomorrow. He also took a moment to thank those closest to him. My family and my friends, Vyborov said, before joking, and I want to thank me, drawing a laugh from those watching on. Artur Vyborov When asked about the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa venue, Vyborov was quick to praise the setting. Im always happy to play here, he said. I like everything thats going on at Onyx and Merit. Its the best conditions, so Im always happy to come back and play poker here. Looking back on his journey to victory, Vyborov explained that it didnt start smoothly. After busting his first attempt late on Day 1a, he reentered during the dinner break with just 20 big blinds. The second one, I registered in the dinner break, he said. And it comes like that. Final Day Action The final day began with 35 four-card enthusiasts all already in the money, each dreaming of making it to the Onyx Club final table and getting their hands on the trophy. Giorgiy Skhulukhiya, Ian Bradley, and Nicolas Chouity were among the early exits, all falling to three players who would go on to reach the final table in Jeremy Trojand, Bujtas, and Thomas Eychenne. Eelis Parssinen The field continued to thin quickly, with several PLO heavyweights hitting the rail before getting anywhere near the final table. Dennis Weiss bowed out after running into the two pair of Arie Ori Miller, while Eelis Parssinen lost a huge pot with aces against the flopped set of Daniel Rezaei. Not long after, Rezaei picked up aces himself and this time they held, sending Parssinen to the rail. Richard Gryko was next to depart after losing most of his stack to Espen Sandvik, then being forced all in from the big blind the very next hand. With two tables remaining, Bezhanyan sat as number one in the chip counts, while Vyborov found himself stone bottom. That changed immediately, as Vyborov doubled right away with a set against Vogelsangs combo draw, catapulting himself back into the middle of the pack. Arie Ori Miller After the eliminations of Nichan Khorchidian in 14th and Rezaei in 13th, both holding aces, it didnt take long before the tournament reached the final table bubble. Vogelsang managed to crack Bezhanyans set of kings with a flush to survive, much to the frustration of the other short stacks. Unfortunately for Miller, his aces got outflopped by Bezhanyans kings, and Miller exited in tenth place. The final table kicked off with Bezhanyan alone out in front, while Vyborov, Eychenne, and Vogelsang lined the bottom of the counts, separated by just a single big blind. After a cagey start, Vogelsang was the first to go in ninth before PLO legend Joni Jouhkimainen followed when his aces were cracked by Bezhanyans flopped two pair. Joni Jouhkimainen Bujtas then showed exactly why hes regarded as one of the best PLO players for more than a decade, steadily climbing the counts using a wide mix of strategies. Throughout it all, Vyborov hovered around the middle, until he found a crucial double up with two pair against Bezhanyans flush and straight draw, propelling him into the top three for the first time. Vyborov kept his momentum going, picking off a bluff from Zhou and creating some breathing room from the bottom of the pack. That didnt last long, as Trojand drilled the perfect river while all-in against Vyborov, sending him tumbling back toward the bottom. Trojand then eliminated Brazils Belarmino De Souza in a flush-over-flush situation, and with six players left, Zhou held the chip lead while Vyborov sat in fifth. Thomas Eychenne & Laszlo Bujtas Eychenne whittled down to just a few big blinds, then soon ran into Zhous bullets and departed in sixth. Bujtas then lost a big pot after being forced to fold kings in the face of a cold four-bet from Zhou, and he never really recovered, eventually exiting in fifth, likely to the relief of everyone else still at the table. Vyborov and Trojand then tussled in a massive blind-versus-blind pot that would change everything. With similar stacks, all the chips went in on the turn, Trojand holding the higher two pair and Vyborov with one foot out the door. The river had other ideas, as it gave Vyborov a superior two pair, leaving Trojand on fumes before he exited in fourth. Three-handed play began with Vyborov holding a slight lead, while Bezhanyan and Zhou sat neck and neck. A rivered royal flush saw Bezhanyan pull away from Zhou, before he began closing the gap on Vyborov at the top. Bezhanyan's climb stalled when Vyborov spiked a full house in a huge pot, opening up a 2:1 chip lead. Quan Zhou A failed bluff left Zhou very short, and Vyborov soon dragged in the rest of his stack when his pocket queens held against Zhous suited hand. Heads-up, Vyborov held more than a 4:1 lead, which quickly ballooned to 10:1 as he applied relentless pressure and punished Bezhanyans attempts to play limped pots. In the final hand, Bezhanyan got all-in in great shape and dominated Vyborov. But as everyone knows, anything can happen in PLO. Both players flopped straight draws, before Vyborov picked up a backdoor diamond flush draw. The river brought the diamond, sealing the win for Vyborov and earning him the trophy, the $450,000 first-place prize, and the bragging rights of being an Onyx High Roller Series champion. Share this article Teri Errico Griffis is the senior business reporter and assistant editor at The Post and Courier, focusing on retail and real estate. An award-winning journalist, she previously worked as a Southeast commerce reporter for the Journal of Commerce and a reporter for the Charleston Regional Business Journal where she covered all facets of business in the Charleston region. Raised in Connecticut and New York, she has called South Carolina home since 2012. News / National by Staff reporter Police in Marange, Mutare, have launched investigations into a suspected murder case following the death of a 66-year-old man who allegedly died after being assaulted at a security base in the Chiadzwa diamond fields on Saturday.Efforts to obtain a comment from national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi were unsuccessful. However, according to a police memorandum dated February 8 and seen by Chipinge Times, the deceased has been identified as Tafadzwa Chamatumba (66) of Wajembwa Village under Chief Marange in Odzi.The memorandum names the suspects as 818894B Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) Mabhena, a Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) member deployed in Chiadzwa under Operation Hakudzokwe, and Dzitiro Phosani, a former police constable who was reportedly discharged from the Zimbabwe Republic Police in September last year.According to the memorandum, the incident occurred on February 7 at around 2pm at Mashukashuka Business Centre in Chiadzwa. Chamatumba, who was allegedly an illegal diamond panner, was reportedly arrested for disorderly conduct by Phosani, who then sought assistance from Mabhena, who was at nearby shops.The two allegedly took Chamatumba to Mashukashuka Base, where they are accused of taking turns to assault him. It is alleged that Mabhena used a folded rope while Phosani used a black shambock. The memorandum states that the victim was allegedly assaulted all over the body multiple times, with water reportedly poured on him during the ordeal.An informant, Norman Chitsau, is said to have passed by the base and witnessed the two suspects assaulting Chamatumba. At around 7pm, Chitsau allegedly passed through the base again and was called by three soldiers who were reportedly assaulting four men at the site.Chitsau reportedly identified one of the victims as Hebert, an alleged illegal diamond panner. He was also allegedly assaulted without explanation and later taken to a bushy area, where he was reportedly asked if he knew Chamatumba, who was lying on the ground covered with a tent.Chitsau was allegedly instructed to fetch a wheelbarrow and transport Chamatumba to his residence, which he did with the assistance of soldiers. Upon arrival, Chitsau reportedly realised that Chamatumba was motionless and not breathing.He is said to have returned to the base to alert the soldiers, but Mabhena allegedly dismissed the report. On his way back, Chitsau reportedly encountered a group of people transporting Chamatumba's body in a wheelbarrow back to the base.Police officers from ZRP Marange attended the scene, and investigations are now being handled by the district's Serious Crimes unit.The memorandum indicates that the suspects had not yet been arrested at the time of writing. Investigations are continuing. Growth & Development Reporter Caleb Bozard covers business, growth and development for The Post and Courier Columbia. He has previously written for The State and the Times and Democrat. He graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2023. Get to know South Carolinian Christopher Gadsden, who some might call a 'forgotten founder' News / National by Gideon Madzikatidze ZVISHAVANE - A 27yearold man, Silent Muvadi, has been arrested following a shooting incident at Sabi Mine in Zvishavane on 8 February 2026.Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said Muvadi was part of a group that had allegedly invaded the mine to illegally prospect for gold."Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Silent Muvadi, aged 27, in a shooting incident that occurred at Sabi Mining site in Zvishavane, Runde Constituency. The suspect was part of a group of people who had invaded Sabi Mine allegedly to illegally prospect for gold on 8 February 2026 at around 0900 hours," Mahoko said.He added that security guards approached the group intending to arrest them. While others fled, Muvadi allegedly charged towards the guards while wielding a chisel."In view of the danger posed by the charge, one of the security guards, who was armed, fired one shot and struck the suspect on the thigh," Mahoko said.Muvadi was subdued, arrested and handed over to ZRP Zvishavane. He was taken to Zvishavane Hospital for treatment.Inspector Mahoko said a docket is being compiled, and Muvadi and his accomplices will face charges of trespassing into Sabi Gold Mine."We reiterate our call to the public not to resist lawful arrests. In the same vein, those with interests in mining should formally approach the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development," he said. PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 13:04:29 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 982 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 HIGHLIGHTSOn February 5th , 2026, the Company completed two financings totaling CAD ~$63M ( See News Release ), including a strategic investment by Queens Road Capital;The quantum and strong institutional support of the combined financings is recognition of the highly impactful results and project de-risking achieved during the 2025 Angilak Exploration Program;ATHA is now one of the best capitalized uranium explorers globally, with funding secured for multiple exploration campaigns focused at its 100%-owned Angilak Uranium Project;2026 Angilak Exploration Program will be the largest to date on the project, following up on the highly successful 2025 campaign, which resulted in the discovery of five new uranium showings - the new discoveries are within the Angikuni Basin and are in addition to the Lac 50 Deposit;An additional diamond drill is being prepared for mobilization to Angilak by Base Diamond Drilling Ltd. - ATHA's drilling service provider since 2024. The owner of Base along with ATHA's CEO Troy Boisjoli led the ramp up in drilling activities at NexGen's Rook I Project to ten diamond drills;Full mobilization to Angilak will commence in March with exploration activities beginning in late April to early May;2026 Exploration will focus on:Expanding the footprint of mineralization at the Lac 50 Deposit Corridor - which hosts the Lac 50 Deposit with a 2024 Exploration Target * ranging from 60.8 M lbs to 98.2 M lbs with an average grade range from 0.37% U 3 O 8 to 0.48% U 3 O 8 , and remains open and unconstrained.*The stated potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature, and there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource, and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. The conceptual target for further exploration is based on available diamond drillhole data including the 2024 drill program results, and the ranges of potential quantity and grade were derived from conceptual vein wireframes, drill core assays, grade interpolation and applied uncertainty ranges. The Angilak Project technical report can be accessed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca; Mineralized RIB Corridor: Additional discoveries and expansion;KU-Nine Iron Corridor: Additional discoveries and expansion;Angilak greenfields: Acquiring full suit of geophysics coverage across the Angikuni Basin, identifying and de-risking additional targets using ATHA's proven exploration approach.Additional detailed information regarding the 2026 Angilak Exploration Program will be provided in Q1 2026.VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 /ATHA Energy Corp. ( TSX.V:SASK)(FRA:X5U)(OTCQB:SASKF) ("ATHA" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce use of proceeds from its recently completed combined financing totaling approximately ~CAD $63 Million will focus on advancing its 100%-owned Angilak Uranium Project in Nunavut, Canada (Figure 1). Planning for the 2026 Angilak Exploration Program is underway, focusing on continued discovery and expansion along the MRC, KU-Nine Iron, and Lac 50 Deposit Corridors.Additionally, ATHA will advance complete geophysical coverage across the entire Angikuni Basin utilizing its systematic derisking approach that resulted in the discovery of five new uranium showings within the Angikuni Basin. With complete coverage across the Angikuni, ATHA anticipates adding numerous additional derisked targets to its growing portfolio of drill ready areas.The Company anticipates that the 2026 Angilak Exploration Program will be the largest to date at the project; the program will combined diamond drilling, aerial geophysics and surficial mapping - focused on discovery and expansion of known zones of mineralization. 2026 mobilization is scheduled to commence in March, including the arrival of an additional diamond drill. Exploration activities are slated to kick off the end of April to early May.Photo 1: Angilak Uranium Project - Base Camp, Logging Facilities, Airstrip, & Core StoragePhoto 2: Angilak Uranium Project - Base Diamond Drill in Operation at AngilakFigure 1: Angilak Uranium Project Location - Nunavut, Canada References for Historic Diamond Drilling Results and Surficial Sampling1 For additional information regarding ATHA's Angilak Project please refer to the Technical Report entitled "Technical Report on the Angilak Property, Nunavut, Canada" with an effective date of October 14, 2025, prepared by Matt Batty, MSc, P. Geo, who is a "qualified person" under NI 43-101, available under ATHA's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca Qualified PersonThe scientific and technical information contained in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Cliff Revering, P.Eng., Vice President, Exploration of ATHA, who is a "qualified person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.About ATHA EnergyATHA Energy is a uranium mineral exploration Company focused on advancing exploration at scale at its flagship Angilak Project in southern Nunavut, where ATHA controls 100% of the Angikuni Basin. ATHA offers significant exposure to uranium discovery, controlling the largest cumulative prospective exploration land package (>7 million acres) across Canada's most prominent basins for uranium discoveries, and 10% carried interest exposure in key Athabasca Basin exploration projects operated by NexGen Energy Ltd. (TSX: NXE) and IsoEnergy Ltd. (TSX: ISO). ATHA is institutionally backed, led by a strategic investment from Queens Road Capital Investment (TSX: QRC).For more information visit www.athaenergy.com and review ATHA's company profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca On Behalf of the Board of DirectorsTroy Boisjoli, CEO, ATHA Energy CorpNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.For more information, please contact:Troy BoisjoliChief Executive OfficerEmail: info@ athaenergy.com Website: www.athaenergy.com Phone: 1-(236)-521-0526Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of s PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 13:04:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 626 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ACA Pharma granted exclusive rights to register and distribute Omisirge across 15 markets, covering both FDA-approved Omisirge indicationsDUBLIN, IE / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Ayrmid, Ltd. ("Ayrmid" or the "Company"), the parent company of Gamida Cell Inc., today announced that it has appointed ACA Pharma as its exclusive distributor for Omisirge (Omidubicel-onlv) and granted ACA Pharma exclusive rights to seek registration and to distribute Omisirge across the following jurisdictions: Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Mongolia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.Under the terms of the agreement, ACA Pharma will hold exclusive rights to register and distribute Omisirge across the Territory; the parties will prioritize specific jurisdictions for regulatory and launch planning based on local requirements and commercial considerations. Initial efforts may focus on lighthouse centers in Macau and Singapore, with additional jurisdictions assessed over time.Dr. Joe Wiley, CEO and Chairman of Ayrmidcommented: "This agreement represents continued progress as we expand access for patients in existing and new territories. Omisirge represents an important advancement in cell therapy and we look forward to working with the team at ACA as we continue to advance our innovative therapies to help patients with serious unmet medical needs." Mike Zhou, CEO of ACA Pharmacommented:"This appointment reflects a shared commitment to responsibly expanding access to Omisirge for appropriate patients across Greater China and Southeast Asia. ACA Pharma's platform is built for complex specialty products-combining regulatory execution, hospital launch capability, and end-to-end distribution-while maintaining the highest standards for quality and patient safety." About OmisirgeOmisirge is a nicotinamide-modified allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell therapy derived from cord blood. Omisirge is approved in the United States for: (1) adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with hematologic malignancies planned for umbilical cord blood transplantation following myeloablative conditioning to reduce time to neutrophil recovery and incidence of infection; and (2) adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with severe aplastic anemia following reduced-intensity conditioning.About Ayrmid Ltd. and Gamida CellAyrmid Ltd. is the parent company of Gamida Cell Inc., a pioneering cell therapy company developing novel treatments designed to turn cells into powerful therapeutics. Gamida Cell Inc. currently has two FDA approved products on the market in the US, namely Omisirge (please see the current full Prescribing Information, including boxed warning, here) and APHEXDA (please see the current full Prescribing Information here). Gamida Cell operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Ayrmid Limited, a UK entity. For additional information, please visit www.gamida-cell.com or follow Gamida Cell on LinkedIn, X, Facebook or Instagram.Contacts: Media, Investors / Business Development: bd@ ayrmid.com About ACA PharmaFounded in 1997, ACA Pharma is a U.S.-headquartered company specializing in fast-track registrations, early access programs, and end-to-end commercialization for innovative medicines and medical devices worldwide. The company is best known for its Macau Fast-Track platform for medicines and Hong Kong Fast-Track pathway for advanced devices, which can enable market entry in as little as 30-90 days in Macau and approximately three months in Hong Kong. These hubs then serve as launchpads to bridge into mainland China via the Greater Bay Area and other national pilot zones, with the real-world evidence generated supporting accelerated national approvals - particularly for products addressing unmet medical need, clinically urgent conditions, or rare diseases. Learn more at www.acapharma.net This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@ lseg.com or visit www.rns.com SOURCE: Ayrmid Pharma Ltd PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 05:40:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 977 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 IRAEmpire has published a new ranking of the best crypto investing apps in 2026 to help consumers. Their new rankings aim to help consumers make better-informed decisions.LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 8, 2026 / Cryptocurrency has become an increasingly popular asset class for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional options such as stocks, bonds, and cash. With wider adoption has come a surge in mobile apps that allow users to buy, hold, and manage digital assets directly from their phones. While this accessibility is a major advantage, it also makes choosing the right crypto investing app more important than ever.Not all crypto apps are designed with long-term investors in mind. Some platforms focus on frequent activity and complex features that can overwhelm beginners and increase risk. Others prioritize simplicity, security, and a more disciplined approach to cryptocurrency investing.Learn About the Best Crypto Investing App Here.What Makes a Crypto Investing App the Best?The best crypto investing app is not defined by flashy features or an overwhelming number of assets. Instead, it is determined by how well the platform supports safe and long-term participation in cryptocurrency markets. For most investors, especially beginners, reliability and simplicity are far more valuable than complexity.Security is the most important factor. Platforms that rely on institutional-grade custody solutions and segregated storage tend to offer greater peace of mind.Check Out the Best Crypto Platforms in the US Here.Ease of use is another essential consideration. An effective app should allow users to buy and manage cryptocurrency without confusion. Clean interfaces, straightforward navigation, and clear account information reduce the risk of costly mistakes and make the investing process more approachable.Transparency around pricing also plays a key role. Investors should be able to understand how much they are paying to buy or sell crypto, without hidden spreads or unclear charges. Clear pricing builds trust and helps users make informed decisions.Finally, the best apps are designed for long-term investing rather than constant activity. Features that support portfolio monitoring, disciplined allocation, and steady participation tend to align better with sustainable crypto investing goals.Types of Crypto Apps ExplainedNot all cryptocurrency apps serve the same purpose. While many allow users to buy and hold digital assets, the overall design and intended user experience can vary significantly. Understanding the main categories of crypto apps can help investors choose one that aligns with their goals and level of experience.Active Market AppsSome crypto apps are built for users who frequently buy and sell digital assets. These platforms often include advanced interfaces, real-time price movement displays, and a wide range of asset options. While this can appeal to experienced users, the complexity may increase the likelihood of impulsive decisions for beginners.These apps typically require users to monitor markets closely and make rapid decisions. For long-term investors, this level of involvement is often unnecessary and can introduce additional risk.Long-Term Crypto Investing AppsLong-term crypto investing apps are designed for individuals who prefer a more disciplined, buy-and-hold approach. These platforms focus on simplicity, portfolio visibility, and ease of use rather than constant activity.Features commonly include streamlined account dashboards, straightforward buying and selling processes, and tools that help users track overall portfolio performance. iTrustCapital falls into this category, making it well suited for investors focused on steady participation rather than frequent adjustments.Crypto Wallet AppsCrypto wallet apps give users direct control over their private keys, offering full ownership of digital assets. While this provides greater autonomy, it also places responsibility for security entirely on the user. Loss of access or security mistakes can result in permanent loss of assets.Wallet apps are generally better suited for experienced users who are comfortable managing their own security practices.iTrustCapital Review - Best Crypto Investing App OveralliTrustCapitalstands out as a crypto investing app built for individuals who value clarity, security, and a long-term approach to digital assets. Rather than overwhelming users with complex features, the app focuses on making cryptocurrency investing accessible and easy to manage, especially for those who are new to the space.Read iTrustCapital Reviews, Fees, and Services AnalysisThe platform is designed around a simple user experience. From account setup to portfolio monitoring, iTrustCapital keeps the process straightforward, allowing users to focus on allocation decisions rather than technical details. This approach helps reduce friction and supports more disciplined investing behavior.iTrustCapital also aligns cryptocurrency investing with long-term financial planning. By offering access to digital assets within a familiar investment framework, the app appeals to users who see crypto as part of a broader diversification strategy rather than a short-term opportunity.These qualities collectively position iTrustCapital as one of the best crypto investing apps for individuals seeking simplicity and a security-first approach.What Is iTrustCapital?iTrustCapital is a fintech software platform for alternative assets. and mobile app designed to help individuals invest in cryptocurrency through a structured, secure, and user-friendly environment. The app is built primarily for long-term investors who want exposure to digital assets without the complexity often found on other crypto platforms.One of iTrustCapital's defining features is its focus on simplicity. The app allows users to buy, hold, and manage cryptocurrency through a clean interface that does not require advanced technical knowledge. This makes it accessible to beginners while still meeting the needs of experienced investors who prefer a streamlined experience.Check if iTrustCapital is the Right Fit for YouiTrustCapital supports a curated selection of well-established digital assets, including major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Digital assets are stored with third-party institutional storage providers, helping secure investor holdings.Overall, iTrustCapital positions itself as a crypto investing app for individuals who value structure, security, and a disciplined approach to participating in cryptocurrency markets.How the iTrustCapital App WorksThe iTrustCapital app is designed to make cryptocurrency investing straightforward from start to finish. The process begins with accoun PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 15:00:46 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 898 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Initial Distribution Launch Marks Transition to Revenue-Generating OperationsWESTMINSTER, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 /BioLargo, Inc. (OTCQX:BLGO), a cleantech and life sciences innovator, announced today that its subsidiary, Clyra Medical Technologies, Inc., has received its first commercial stocking order from Advanced Solution, LLC for ViaCLYR, Clyra's FDA-cleared wound irrigation solution. The order marks the start of commercial distribution and represents Clyra's transition from development-stage operations to early revenue generation.The stocking order initiates product availability through Advanced Solution's national distribution platform, supporting sales to hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers across the United States. BioLargo views this milestone as the first in a series of planned commercial and revenue-related announcements as Clyra advances its market rollout.ViaCLYR is a highly effective, tissue safe, long-acting wound irrigation solution that can be used for acute and chronic wounds and burns. This unique, clear, odorless, non-irritating solution is 510(k) cleared by the FDA and indicated for acute and chronic wounds. It has an extremely high antimicrobial activity as a preservative in solution with over 99.9999% kill rate (up to 7 log reduction) with sustained efficacy up to 72 hours."This initial commercial order reflects years of disciplined development, regulatory execution, and commercial preparation," said Steve Harrison, Clyra's Chief Executive Officer. "With ViaCLYR now entering the distribution channel, we are beginning the transition from innovation to execution, laying the groundwork for scalable revenue growth as adoption expands." Dennis P. Calvert, Chairman of Clyra Medical Technologies and President and CEO of BioLargo, Inc., added, "This milestone represents a tangible step forward in BioLargo's strategy of developing differentiated technologies and advancing them into commercial markets through strong partnerships. We believe Clyra is well positioned to build momentum as product availability expands and market awareness grows." Clyra's commercial readiness reflects the completion of key foundational elements, including FDA 510(k) clearance, implementation of ISO 13485-certified quality systems, validated manufacturing processes, and clinical evaluations supporting real-world use. As distribution begins, Clyra plans to advance additional commercialization initiatives and expand its product portfolio over time.About Clyra Medical TechnologiesClyra Medical Technologies, Inc., a partially-owned subsidiary of BioLargo, Inc., focuses on infection control and advanced wound care. Founded in 2012, the company develops and commercializes wound care solutions based on its proprietary Copper-Iodine Complex Technology. Clyra's product portfolio features FDA-cleared medical devices that leverage this patented technology to deliver superior wound care outcomes. The company continues to advance its research and development efforts, exploring expanded indications for its unique formulations and their synergistic applications with complementary wound care dressings and mechanical devices. Through strategic partnerships with leading distribution and marketing organizations, Clyra ensures its innovative products reach healthcare providers and patients who need them most.About Advanced SolutionAdvanced Solution LLC ( https://advancedsolution.health) specializes in advanced wound care biologics, regenerative technologies, and medical devices. As an FDA-registered Tissue Dispensary Intermediary (TDI), Advanced Solution partners with healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics across the United States to deliver innovative, outcomes-driven products that improve patient care and operational efficiency. Headquartered in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Advanced Solution represents a portfolio of market-leading brands and collaborates closely with manufacturers, clinicians, and healthcare organizations to bring cutting-edge therapies to market. With a focus on compliance, education, and strategic commercialization, the company continues to set the standard for excellence in distribution and partnership within the wound care and life sciences industries.About BioLargo, Inc.BioLargo, Inc. (OTCQX:BLGO) is a cleantech and life sciences innovator and engineering services solution provider. Our core products address PFAS contamination, achieve advanced water and wastewater treatment, control odor and VOCs, improve air quality, enable energy-efficiency and safe on-site energy storage, and control infections and infectious disease. Our approach is to invent or acquire novel technologies, develop them into product offerings, and extend their commercial reach through licensing and channel partnerships to maximize their impact. See our website at www.BioLargo.com Contact InformationDennis P. CalvertPresident and CEO, BioLargo, Inc.888-400-2863 Safe Harbor ActThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include without limitation those about BioLargo's (the "Company") expectations regarding anticipated revenue; and plans for future operations. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include without limitation: the effect of regional economic conditions on the Company's business, including effects on purchasing decisions by consumers and businesses; the ability of the Company to compete in markets that are highly competitive and subject to rapid technological change; the ability of the Company to manage frequent introductions and transitions of products and services, including delivering to the marketplace, and stimulating customer demand for, new products, services, and technological innovations on a timely basis; the dependency of the Company on the performance of distributors of the Company's products. More information on these risks and other potential factors that could affect the Company's business and financial results is included in the Company's filings with the SEC, including in the "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" sections of the Company's most recently filed periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and subsequent filings. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information, which speak as of their respective dates.SOURCE: BioLargo, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 16:00:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 521 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Chantal Triay, Executive Director of Corazon, has been named a 2026 "49 Under 49" honoree by California State University, Long Beach, recognizing her professional leadership, philanthropic commitment, and sustained impact across construction, education, and community development.The 49 Under 49 program celebrates alumni under the age of 49 who are making meaningful, transformative contributions in their communities and beyond. The distinction reflects the university's founding year of 1949 and honors graduates whose work demonstrates excellence, service, and long-term impact.Triay was selected for her work leading Corazon's mission to provide safe housing, expand educational access, and support family and community development initiatives in underserved communities in Mexico. As Executive Director, she oversees the organization's Construction, Education, and Family and Community programs, which focus on addressing housing insecurity, creating leadership pathways, and breaking cycles of poverty through practical, community-driven solutions.One of Corazon's most recognized initiatives, the "Build a House in a Day" program, brings U.S. volunteers to Mexico to construct a permanent home for a family in need in a single day. The program provides immediate stability while fostering cross-border collaboration and service learning.Before entering the nonprofit sector, Triay built her career in the construction industry, managing complex projects across Southern California, including sustainable developments, prefabricated structures, and medical research facilities. She became the first woman construction Superintendent at one of the region's top Tenant Improvement Contractors, a firm also recognized as one of Southern California's leading women-owned businesses.Her expertise has led to invitations to speak at international construction conferences in China on sustainability, construction technology, and global industry trends. She has also served as a speaker at the Beach Women in Engineering Conference at California State University, Long Beach, and continues to work closely with the university's Construction Engineering Management Department to provide students with hands-on learning and service opportunities.In addition to her professional work, Triay is the author of The Girl Who Said She Could, a children's book focused on confidence, perseverance, and empowerment. In 2023, she was recognized by Entrepreneur's Herald Magazine as one of the "Top 30 Women Leaders to Look Out For." Looking ahead, Triay plans to continue expanding Corazon's impact by deepening partnerships, strengthening leadership development programs, and bridging construction, education, and community service to create sustainable, long-term change."The recognition reflects the collective work of the communities and partners I am honored to serve," said Triay. "Lasting impact comes from access, education, and opportunity working together." About CorazonCorazon is a nonprofit organization that delivers practical solutions to address housing insecurity, limited access to education, and long-term economic stability in Mexico. Corazon provides families with secure homes, access to electricity and sanitation, scholarships, mentorship, vocational training, and leadership development opportunities. The organization's volunteer-driven programs are designed to create stability, empowerment, and generational impact.For more information, visit https://www.corazon.org or follow Corazon on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/corazoncommunity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corazoncommunity/ Media ContactOrganization: CorazonContact Person Name: Chantal TriayWebsite: https://www.corazon.org Email: chantal@ corazon.org City: Los AngelesState: CACountry: United StatesSOURCE: Corazon PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 00:00:38 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 475 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 8, 2026 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Coupang, Inc. ("Coupang" or the "Company") (NYSE:CPNG). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Coupang and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until February 17, 2026 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Coupang securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On November 30, 2025, Reuters published an article reporting that Coupang had "apologized . . . over the breach of personal information from 33.7 million customer accounts through unauthorized data access" and that the government of South Korea had "held an emergency meeting" to "look[] into whether Coupang violated safety rules regarding personal information protection[.]"On this news, Coupang's stock price fell $1.51 per share, or 5.36%, to close at $26.65 per share on December 1, 2025.Then, on December 10, 2025, the New York Times published an article reporting that Coupang's Chief Executive Officer had resigned in connection with the data breach and providing additional details on the fallout from the data breach, including a police raid on Coupang's offices in Seoul.On this news, Coupang's stock price fell $0.87 per share, or 3.2%, to close at $26.06 per share on December 10, 2025.Then, on December 16, 2025, Coupang acknowledge the breach in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and revealed that the South Korean regulatory and law enforcement investigations uncovered that "a former employee may have obtained the name, phone number, delivery address, and email address associated with up to 33 million customer accounts, and certain order histories for a subset of the impacted accounts." On this news, Coupang's stock price fell $0.47 per share, or 2.03%, to close at $22.72 per share on December 17, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 15:00:38 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 689 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 HERNDON, VIRGINIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 /Constellis Holdings, LLC ("Constellis") today announced Daniel Gelston has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Terry Ryan, will transition to the role of Executive Vice Chairman, reporting to the Board of Directors. This planned leadership change ensures business continuity while accelerating the organization's next phase of technology-led growth."After a global search for the right individual to lead us into the future, the Board of Directors is pleased to name Daniel Gelston as Constellis' next CEO," said Michael Lundin, the Board's Lead Director. "Dan brings a unique combination of enterprise-level leadership, deep defense and security expertise gained through military service and private company leadership, and expertise in AI and data-driven solutions. Together, these strengths align perfectly with our critical mission supporting government and private sector customers. His strategic leadership will accelerate Constellis' transformation as we sharpen our focus to advance technology, data integrity, and leverage artificial intelligence to better serve customers and to anticipate evolving global challenges." As CEO, Mr. Gelston will spearhead a strategic shift to integrate emerging technologies, specifically predictive analytics and AI-enabled operational insights into Constellis' core service delivery. By leveraging data as a strategic asset, the company aims to move beyond reactive security into a proactive model of tech-enabled prevention. This evolution optimizes human performance, and delivers measurable value across national security, critical infrastructure, and enterprise missions."I am honored to lead Constellis at this pivotal moment and grateful for the confidence the Board has placed in me," said Dan Gelston. "This organization stands at the forefront of adaptive technology to enhance security and safety for national and global organizations. We are committed to enabling customer success by accelerating informed decision making, embedding AI innovation, and delivering integrated solutions. I look forward to collaborating with our experienced personnel and valued customers to outpace emerging threats and unlock new opportunities for impact and growth." About Daniel GelstonMr. Gelston joins Constellis with a proven record of driving transformational growth and innovation in the defense and federal sectors. He recently launched and scaled the government business at C3 AI. As the C3 Federal Systems President, he secured major wins against top competitors in AI-driven mission solutions across the Defense, Intelligence Community, Federal Law Enforcement and Federal Civilian markets. Prior to that, Gelston served as Group President for Defense & Security and CEO of CAE USA Inc., leading the global training and simulation enterprise through a successful turnaround and executing the company's largest acquisition in its history. His leadership experience spans major defense companies including L3Harris Technologies, Smiths Detection, and Cobham, consistently delivering operational excellence and strategic impact.CEO Transition and Leadership Continuity"As we enter this new chapter, we appreciate Terry's steadfast leadership in setting the stage for our current position," said Lundin. "His support as Executive Vice Chairman will ensure that as we pivot toward a more technical future, we remain grounded in the mission excellence our customers expect." With the planned transition, Terry Ryan moves to Executive Vice Chairman where he will serve as a strategic advisor on key business initiatives and market opportunities. He and the Board of Directors will work closely with Mr. Gelston to ensure a seamless transition that reinforces stability for customers and employees."I am proud of what we have achieved and confident that Dan is the right leader to guide Constellis into its next chapter," said Terry Ryan. "Our commitment to safety, innovation, and mission success will remain our trademark and channel to achieve success amid the accelerating pace of change." About ConstellisConstellis is a global leader in integrated security, training, and risk management solutions. Merging unmatched expertise with advanced technology, we protect people, infrastructure, and operations in the world's most complex environments. Our highly skilled professionals are driven by a commitment to excellence, compliance, and integrity, delivering mission-critical support with confidence and precision. As a trusted partner across industries, domains, and geographies, Constellis empowers customers to secure mission success.Media contact:Rhianna Daniels Hile813.944.7464 rhianna@ compass28N.com SOURCE: Constelllis PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 17:00:40 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 821 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The new location serving a full menu of breakfast, brunch and lunch opens its doors on Monday, February 9th in The Woodlands, TexasTHE WOODLANDS, TEXAS / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 /First Watch, the leading Daytime Dining restaurant serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, announced today it has opened a new location in The Woodlands, Texas. The new restaurant located at 26435 Kuykendahl Road, #900 at Creekside Park, brings a chef-inspired menu and rotating seasonal offerings to a 4,472-square-foot space that seats 164 people, provides outside dining for 50 under a covered patio and serves signature housemade fresh juices at an indoor brunch bar. The restaurant will employ approximately 50 people.To celebrate the opening of the new Creekside Park location, customers who dine in-restaurant during its first five days in business will receive free coffee with their meal. In addition, the first 120 customers to visit the new restaurant will also receive a custom, reusable travel mug."Opening in Creekside Park is especially meaningful to us," said Dan Anfinson, COO of Mac Haik First Watch LLC. "This is a community I am proud to call home, and we're excited to bring a welcoming place where neighbors can gather over fresh, thoughtfully prepared daytime meals. We look forward to becoming part of the daily rhythm of Creekside Park and serving families and friends for years to come." First Watch's curated menu takes an elevated approach to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch, featuring made-to-order dishes prepared using farm-fresh ingredients. The menu includes crave-able items such as Avocado Toast, Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. The new restaurant offers healthy, flavorful favorites like house-made granola and pico de gallo, organic greens, house-roasted vegetables, cage-free eggs and 100% fresh-squeezed orange juice, as well as more indulgent, classic offerings.First Watch Creekside Park will also offer options from the restaurant's fresh juice bar - including the best-selling Morning Meditation (made with orange, lemon, turmeric, organic ginger, agave nectar and beet) - juiced in-house daily using only the highest quality fruits and vegetables. The new restaurant features First Watch's brunch cocktail program, which allows guests to enjoy signature creations like Cinnamon Toast Cereal Milk (coconut rum, cold brew coffee, coconut milk and agave nectar).Five times a year, First Watch offers a revolving seasonal menu that follows the sun to source the highest quality ingredients, wherever and whenever they are in season. This ever-evolving menu has featured Crab Avocado Toast, Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast, Elote Mexican Street Corn Hash and Watermelon Wake-Up fresh juice, among many others.A grab-and-go retail area will showcase Sweet Street's line of GMO-free, additive-free desserts for purchase and the concept's socially responsible and award-winning Project Sunrise coffee, grown by independent groups of women farmers in South America, called the Mujeres en Cafe. Communal tables as well as patio and bar seating make First Watch a great place for guests to work remotely in an approachable atmosphere.First Watch serves its entire menu seven days a week from 7 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. for pickup, delivery and dine-in service. The restaurant also offers customers complimentary newspapers and free Wi-Fi Internet access.About First WatchFirst Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid's meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities - raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" awards, First Watch was voted 2025's #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards and was also named 2025 and 2024's #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute (as seen in The Wall Street Journal), after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023 as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 620 restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com About Mac Haik Restaurant GroupMac Haik Restaurant Group (MHRG) is a division of Mac Haik Enterprises LTD (MHE), a diversified holding company headquartered in Houston, Texas. MHRG oversees a growing portfolio of original and franchised concepts, including Kirkwood-a modern clubhouse-style restaurant opening in Houston's Energy Corridor-and Maggie's Coffee. MHRG is also the largest franchisee of First Watch Restaurants and was named Franchisee of the Year in 2024. MHE's broader holdings include Mac Haik Outdoor Media, Mac Haik Hospitality, and Mac Haik Automotive Group, which operates 17 dealerships across the South. Learn more at machaik-enterprises.com . Media Contact:Lacey MartinVice President of Marketing Mac Haik Restaurant Group marketing@ machaik.com (713) 408-1381SOURCE: Mac Haik Enterprises LTD News / National by Staff reporter The Zimbabwean government has denied allegations that it was involved in the killing of a political activist in South Africa following online claims that he was the victim of an extraterritorial assassination.Kudzai Weston Saruwaka, an activist associated with calls for political change championed by the late war veteran Blessed "Bombshell" Geza, was found dead with gunshot wounds in Mabopane, north of Pretoria, on February 7.Saruwaka's brother, former Mutasa Central opposition MP Trevor Saruwaka, alleged in a Facebook post that the killing was politically motivated."The political thugs have assassinated my young brother, Kudzai Weston Saruwaka, of the Geza Revolution," Trevor Saruwaka wrote. "You are a martyr who has paid the ultimate price for the freedom of Zimbabwe. The struggle shall continue."Government spokesperson Ndavaningi Mangwana rejected the allegations, describing them as unfounded."We categorically reject the unfounded allegations being pushed around the internet regarding the tragic death of a Zimbabwean national in South Africa. We had absolutely no role in this incident," Mangwana said.He extended condolences to the family and said the government had confidence in South African authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, adding that South Africa's high levels of violent crime should not be overlooked."The South African police are experienced in handling complex cases of violent crime. We urge all parties to allow investigations to proceed without harmful speculation," Mangwana said.Saruwaka's death came a day after Geza died of cancer while in exile in South Africa, a coincidence that fuelled speculation among activists and critics of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government.A video circulating online shows Saruwaka outside a residence described as Geza's home, where he said he had gone to pay his respects. In the footage, he indicated he was preparing to leave South Africa.US-based pro-democracy activist Freeman Chari claimed on social media that Saruwaka had been assassinated by ruling party operatives, an allegation the Zimbabwean government has denied.Friends and associates said Saruwaka left Zimbabwe in October last year after receiving what he believed were credible threats linked to his political activism.While in South Africa, he reportedly earned a living selling branded door mats, carpets and rugs.According to accounts from family members, Saruwaka had received a R27,000 order paid in three instalments via ATM deposits. After completing the order, communication with the client allegedly ceased for more than two months.Last week, Saruwaka was reportedly sent a delivery location in Mabopane. He travelled to the area using an Uber, where gunmen are alleged to have ambushed the vehicle and fatally shot him.Family members said police indicated that nothing was stolen from the vehicle, including the goods Saruwaka was delivering, raising suspicions that he may have been deliberately lured to the location.Tributes have since poured in from opposition leaders and activists.MDC leader Douglas Mwonzora described Saruwaka as "one of the most gifted, fearless and focused young people" and condemned the killing as "murder most foul."Gladys Hlatywayo, a former MP and Citizens Coalition for Change external affairs secretary, said the killing bore "the footprints of an extraterritorial assassination."South African police have yet to publicly comment on possible motives, saying investigations are ongoing.The allegations, though unproven, have heightened anxiety among Zimbabwean political activists living in exile in neighbouring countries, many of whom fled citing fears for their safety. PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 16:00:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 485 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Next-generation 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity delivers ultra-fast speeds, high reliability, and flexible cloud-based management for modern business networksCHANTILLY, VIRGINIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / InHand Networks, a global provider of industrial and enterprise networking solutions, today announced the unveiling of theCR602 5G Wi-Fi 7 Router, a next-generation connectivity solution designed to deliver high-speed, reliable, and flexible network access for modern business environments.As businesses increasingly rely on cloud services, video collaboration, digital payments, and connected devices, the demand for stable, high-performance networking has never been greater. The CR602 addresses these challenges by combining ultra-fast 5G cellular connectivity with next-generation Wi-Fi 7 technology, enabling seamless communication across diverse professional scenarios.The CR602 delivers exceptional performance with peak 5G download speeds of up to 7.01 Gbps and upload speeds of 2.5 Gbps. With carrier aggregation and intelligent bandwidth management, the router maintains consistent performance even in high-demand environments. Built-in support for both primary and failover connections helps ensure uninterrupted network availability for mission-critical operations.Complementing its 5G capabilities, the CR602 featuresWi-Fi 7 with Multi-Link Operation (MLO) , allowing multiple wireless links to operate simultaneously. This enables stable, low-latency connectivity for business-critical devices such as POS systems, security cameras, IoT sensors, and office workstations.Reliability is a core focus of the CR602's design. Dual SIM and eSIM redundancy help eliminate single points of failure, while fast fault recovery mechanisms reduce downtime and enhance operational continuity-making the solution well suited for industries where network reliability is essential.The CR602 is managed through a cloud-based platform that provides real-time network visibility, status monitoring, and alerts via intuitive dashboards. Both mobile app and web-based management interfaces are supported, enabling efficient remote configuration and large-scale deployment. An integrated AI assistant is available 24/7 to assist with setup, diagnostics, and maintenance, reducing the need for specialized technical expertise.Designed for versatility, the CR602 supports a wide range of business and field applications. In retail environments, it ensures reliable connectivity for POS payments and guest Wi-Fi. In healthcare settings such as small pharmacies and private clinics, it supports inventory systems, electronic prescriptions, and telehealth services. In education, it provides flexible networking for classrooms, online learning, and campus security devices.The router is also well suited for temporary or remote deployments, including construction sites, energy and mining operations, agriculture, emergency response, and pop-up networks at exhibitions or events-especially in locations without fixed broadband or fiber access."The CR602 was designed to be a flexible, all-in-one connectivity solution that adapts to the real-world needs of today's businesses," said [Kenneth], Product Manager at InHand Networks. "From small enterprises to remote and temporary deployments, it delivers the speed, resilience, and ease of management organizations need to stay connected." The CR602 5G Wi-Fi 7 Router is now available in the U.S. market. For more information on specifications, pricing, and deployment options, pleaseLearn more: https://www.inhand.com/en/products/5g-cellular-router/ Media ContactEleanor ChenMarketing & Communications eleanor.chen@inhand.com SOURCE: InHand Networks PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 16:30:11 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 295 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is investigating potential securities fraud claims on behalf of investors ofKyndryl Holdings, Inc. ("Kyndryl" or the "Company") (NYSE:KD).On February 9, 2026, Kendryl reported it will delay filing its 10-Q, because it ". . . is reviewing its cash management practices, related disclosures (including regarding the drivers of the Company's adjusted free cash flow metric), the efficacy of the Company's internal control over financial reporting, and certain other matters following the Company's receipt of voluntary document requests from the Division of Enforcement of the Securities and Exchange Commission . . . relating to such matters." Additionally, on February 9, 2026, the Company reported the departures of its CFO and General Counsel.On this news, Kyndryl's stock was down more than 54% during intraday trading on February 9, 2026.Kyndryl investors with financial losses are encouraged to completeKehoe Law Firm's Stockholder Information Request Formor contact Michael Yarnoff, Esq., (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, myarnoff@ kehoelawfirm.com , info@ kehoelawfirm.com,to learn more about the investigation and receive a free, no-obligation evaluation of potential legal claims.ABOUT KEHOE LAW FIRM, P.C.Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.This press release may constitute attorney advertising.SOURCE: Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-09 06:00:05 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 988 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 This groundbreaking discovery has revealed a systemic metabolic dysfunction that creates a toxic exosome cargo in ALS patients, which is carried to the CNS, where it binds to and damages neuronsVesalic is pioneering a novel therapeutic to intercept and neutralise these toxins, potentially slowing or halting progression of monogenic and sporadic forms of ALSIn addition, Vesalic has discovered a disease-specific alteration of the lipid composition in the membranes of exosomes circulating in the blood, and has developed a highly accurate biomarker-based technology to detect both monogenic and sporadic ALSBased on its novel biomarker discoveries, Vesalic is also applying its biomarker technology for other neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson'sLONDON, UK / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Vesalic Limited, an early-stage neurodegenerative disease-focused biotech company, today emerged from stealth with the landmark discovery of a systemic process - largely external to the brain and central nervous system (CNS) - that is suspected to be a major contributor to motor neuron diseases (MND), including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). This discovery could potentially transform understanding of the origin of these diseases. Vesalic is leveraging this groundbreaking finding, and the company's identification of a previously unknown blood-based disease signature of ALS, to advance breakthrough therapeutic and diagnostic solutions. These advances could revolutionise the treatment and diagnosis of this devastating disease and potentially have implications for other NDDs as well.Unmet Therapeutic Need in ALS and Vesalic's Therapeutic ApproachLack of therapeutic success with brain and CNS targets. ALS is the most common type of MND, with an estimated 350,000 people affected worldwide, and with an expected increase in the coming years due to the ageing population. ALS patients experience progressive degeneration and loss of neurons in the brain, brainstem and spinal cord, which results in the brain losing its ability to initiate and control muscle movement, leading to paralysis and death. ALS remains largely untreatable despite extensive investigation over many years of approaches targeting abnormalities in the brain and CNS. In addition, nearly all development efforts have focused on therapies for monogenic (or familial') forms of the disease, which account for around 10% of all ALS cases, out of which only about 3% can potentially access a therapy option. This offers little prospect of change for the remaining 90% of ALS patients with sporadic forms of the disease.Vesalic's target: a non-CNS driver of monogenic and sporadic ALS. Vesalic has characterised a systemic metabolic dysfunction that creates a toxic exosome cargo in ALS patients, which is carried to the CNS, where it binds to and damages neurons, yielding a novel druggable target against the disease.Vesalic is now pioneering a therapeutic to intercept and neutralise these toxins before they can damage neurons. This approach could potentially slow or halt progression of both monogenic and sporadic forms of the disease. Vesalic is now conducting in vivo studies to establish preclinical proof of concept for its therapeutic and to support a planned regulatory filing in 2027 to initiate clinical study.Unmet Diagnostic Need in ALS and Vesalic's Diagnostic ApproachLack of measurable biomarkers to diagnose ALS. In addition to a lack of therapeutic options, there is no definitive, non-invasive diagnostic method for ALS - especially in the early stages. Once other conditions are ruled out, a combination of techniques such as MRI scans, tests of nerve conduction and nerve and muscle electrical activity, and lumbar punctures, are utilised. The current diagnostic process typically takes many months, and in some cases over a year. There have been considerable efforts to identify biomarkers that would allow rapid, non-invasive and accurate diagnosis at symptom onset, or earlier, but with limited success to date.Vesalic's highly accurate biomarker-based technology. Biomarker-based diagnostics currently in development for ALS are designed to detect various protein and RNA abnormalities. Vesalic has discovered that the signature of ALS is also expressed as an alteration of the lipid composition in the membranes of exosomes circulating in the blood. Based on this discovery, Vesalic has developed a biomarker-based technology with >90% accuracy in detecting both monogenic and sporadic forms of ALS, and which could be deployed in third-party clinical trials.Vesalic believes that its biomarker test potentially could predict ALS years before a patient becomes symptomatic. The test holds the promise of drastically simplifying the diagnostic odyssey that patients and their families currently endure. In addition, the test potentially could be utilised to monitor treatment response in real time and guide therapeutic strategies. Beyond ALS, Vesalic is also applying its biomarker technology based on lipid alteration in exosomes for the detection of other NDDs, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.Intellectual PropertyVesalic has worked with leading scientists to build the data to support the therapeutic and biomarker concepts and has built a broad patent estate around these.Professor Kevin Talbot, Head of the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford, said, "Pushing boundaries to help us understand the causes and biological signatures of ALS is critical to delivering true progress against this devastating disease. It's incredibly exciting to see Vesalic advancing this therapy that could potentially address sporadic and monogenic ALS, alongside a simple, non-invasive biomarker test that could allow patients to be diagnosed much earlier. These efforts offer meaningful hope for the future to the ALS community." Vesalic's Executive and Scientific LeadershipIncorporated in early 2023, Vesalic's founders include Dr. Valeria Ricotti (CEO), Professor Thomas Voit (Chief Scientific Officer) and John McLaren (Executive Chair). The company raised initial funding from individual investors, including its non-executive directors, Elie Vannier, Oscar Schafer and Simon Black, and prominent individual investors including Bertrand Meunier.Dr. Ricotti said, "Our groundbreaking discoveries could fundamentally reshape the landscape in diagnosing and treating ALS, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. We've made remarkable progress advancing our ALS therapeutic programme, our biomarker technology, and building our patent estate. We continue to push ahead, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the coming months." Professor Voit The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has given regulatory approval to the Bank of Industry (BoI) to operate a Non-Interest Banking (NIB) Window as part of its operations. The approval was disclosed on Sunday by the BoI Managing Director, Olasupo Olusi, who described the development as a significant milestone in the banks growth and long-term development agenda. The MD noted that the approval will strengthen the banks role in promoting sustainable industrial development. The move is also expected to improve access to finance for underserved and high-impact business segments across Nigeria. With the approval, the BoI boss stated that the bank will drive inclusive growth, mobilise new ethical funding, and expand support for the real economy. He added that the NIB operation will enable BoI to align its financing activities with social and developmental objectives. Mr Olusi further explained that the approval has authorised BoI to commence non-interest banking operations, providing ethical, asset-backed financing options that prohibit interest and promote risk-sharing. According to the BoIs MD, the approval reflects the CBNs confidence in the BoIs commitment to responsible financing. This development marks a significant milestone in the Bank of Industrys growth and long-term development agenda. It positions the bank to further advance Nigerias sustainable and inclusive industrial development through tailored financial solutions for underserved and high-impact business segments. Under this framework, BoI will be able to finance assets and raw materials for customers using approved non-interest banking products. The approval underscores the CBNs confidence in BoIs commitment to responsible financing, the BOI head stated. He added that the licence would allow the bank to scale its operations, introduce innovative financing solutions, deepen support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and reach a new category of borrowers who were previously unable to access BoIs funding. This will allow BoI to scale its operations, introduce innovative financing solutions, and deepen support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as other underserved segments critical to Nigerias sustainable economic growth. Mr Olusi added that the development will be particularly beneficial to those who have traditionally avoided conventional interest-based financing. The State Security Services (SSS) has formally taken over the investigation into the alleged attack and abduction of veteran filmmaker, Don Pedro Obaseki, in Benin City, on 28 December 2025. The incident drew public outrage after a viral video showing Obaseki being stripped, beaten and paraded through the streets before being taken to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. It is coming weeks after the politician announced that he would be suing the perpetrators of the act. Obaseki, who revealed that he would engage the services of renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, as lead counsel, said both civil and criminal proceedings would be pursued concurrently, in line with Nigerian and international law. Before that, Obaseki, a media executive, had petitioned the State Security Services (SSS) over the incident. However, Obaseki has said that the latest actions to seek redress were solely in furtherance of justice, the rule of law, and public accountability, and not for sensationalism or political motive. Terrorism-related Mr Falana announced that the DSS would be treating the incident as terrorism-related. In a statement, the lead counsel said that the SSS headquarters in Abuja has assumed conduct of the investigation in recognition of the nature, gravity, and implications of the acts complained of. Describing the decision to classify the case as terrorism-related as commendable, Mr Falana said that the petitions allege terrorism-related conduct, conspiracy, assault, unlawful detention and obstruction of justice arising from the events of 28 December 2025. He further stated that Obaseki has welcomed the development and has continued to fully cooperate with lawful investigative processes. Engagements According to the Senior Advocate, Obaseki has had engagements with the SSS in Benin City under the authority of the State Director. Any concerns arising from those interactions, including issues of conduct, handling and procedural integrity, have been formally documented and are now part of the consolidated representations before the appropriate authorities, he said. Mr Falana also noted that the legal team has instituted civil proceedings before Nigerian courts, which he said are intended to complement, not prejudice, ongoing investigations by security agencies, while seeking judicial remedies and institutional accountability. Beyond Nigeria, petitions have been submitted to international and regional bodies, including the ECOWAS Court of Justice, the European Union human-rights mechanisms and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture and arbitrary detention, the statement reads. The statement further noted that social media and digital platforms have been placed on notice over the circulation of footage linked to Obasekis alleged dehumanisation and abduction, to ensure responsible platform conduct and cooperation with lawful accountability processes. Background In December 2025, a viral video showed Obaseki, a cousin to the immediate past Edo State governor, being stripped, beaten and paraded through the streets before being taken to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. He was accused of disrespecting the Oba of Benin during a meet-and-greet session in London. However, the Benin Traditional Council distanced the Oba from the incident, insisting that the monarch neither authorised nor condoned the assault. In a statement, the palace described the attack as unfortunate and inconsistent with the values of the Benin throne, stressing that Oba Ewuare II remains committed to peace and due process. The Nigerian Army says it deployed troops in a joint operation within Amasiri and its adjoining communities in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State to protect innocent citizens. Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu. Mr Ayeni, a lieutenant colonel, noted that the attention of the Headquarters, 82 Division, had been drawn to videos circulating on social media, featuring journalists condemning deployment of troops to Amasiri following the killing of innocent citizens in the community, The army spokesperson said that the intervention of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in Amasiri, and its adjoining communities, was not an invasion as portrayed by the videos. According to him, the narrative is misleading and did not reflect the true purpose of the joint operation. Troops were deployed as a direct response to the gruesome killings and beheadings of four individuals in Okporojo village, Edda Local Government Area, and subsequent discoveries of shallow graves containing mutilated bodies in Amasiri. These atrocities demanded urgent intervention to restore peace, protect innocent lives, and bring perpetrators to justice. The Ebonyi State Government, in line with its constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property, therefore imposed a curfew and temporarily closed schools in Amasiri to prevent escalation and ensure public safety. The security agencies were deployed to enforce the curfew, ensure uninterrupted investigations and security operations, protect medical teams, and manage the humanitarian implications of the crisis, he said. Mr Ayeni said that the joint teams, which included the Nigeria Police, the State Security Service, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, had been conducting intelligence-driven patrols, cordon-and-search operations, and forensic exhumations in the affected areas. He said that credible intelligence had further revealed multiple sites where victims were buried, including adults and children. The army spokesperson noted that the discovery of these graves underscored the scale of the crimes committed and the necessity of a robust security presence to dismantle criminal networks and prevent further violence. It is important to stress that the deployment of troops is not targeted at the people of Amasiri but at criminal elements exploiting communal tensions to perpetrate heinous crimes. The operation is intelligence-led, professional, and conducted in partnership with local leadership to ensure transparency and accountability. The Nigerian Army and sister agencies remain committed to protecting all citizens without bias; the intervention will continue until peace is fully restored, perpetrators are apprehended and justice is served. The public is urged to kindly disregard misinformation and support ongoing efforts to secure Afikpo North Council Area and its neighbouring communities, he added. Police arrest govt official, two traditional rulers over the killing The police, about a week ago, arrested Anya Baron-Ogbonnia, the coordinator of Amasiri Development Centre in Afikpo, in connection with the killing of four people in Edda. The police said that two traditional rulers, Onyaidam Bassey and Godfrey Oko-Obia from Amasiri in the Afikpo council area, had also been arrested in connection with the killing. In a response to the incident, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi had earlier sacked political appointees and dethroned traditional rulers from the Amasiri community over alleged complicity in the violent land dispute. Mr Nwifuru, who visited the Okporojo community, said that the Amasiri community had not shown enough commitment to maintain permanent peace in the area, and the government had decided to bare its fangs. All government appointees from Amasiri from the local government development centremanagement committee members to commissioners have been sacked. Traditional rulers from Amasiri will have their certificates of recognition withdrawn while all town union leaderships of villages in the community are dissolved, he said. (NAN) The Civil Society Coalition on Peace, Security, and Conflict Resolution has honoured the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, with an award of excellence. The honour recognises his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the states educational development. The award was presented to the governor on Sunday at the Council Chamber, Government House, Dutse. The ceremony took place during a one-day roundtable discussion on basic education, chaired by the Coalitions chairperson, Muhammad Musbahu Basirka, alongside key stakeholders. The plaque symbolises Governor Namadis role as an Architect of Educational Excellence, acknowledging his deliberate reforms that prioritise access, quality, and equity within the basic education sector. These milestones include infrastructure investment, sustained funding for the renovation and construction of school facilities, robust teacher recruitment and professional development programs, and the implementation of strategies to ensure learning opportunities for all, thereby securing a brighter future for the next generation. During the presentation, the Coalition noted that Governor Namadis agenda has transitioned from rhetoric to practical action, laying a solid foundation for a more prosperous and socially stable Jigawa State. According to them, his leadership continues to inspire confidence among stakeholders, reinforcing the belief that education is the ultimate cornerstone for regional peace. The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to a constructive partnership with the Jigawa State Government to further advance reforms that secure improved learning outcomes and long-term human capital development. Reforms in the education sector Under Governor Namadis administration, Jigawa State has moved aggressively to tackle the challenges of out-of-school children and low literacy rates. The state recently embarked on a massive recruitment drive to fill the gap in primary and secondary schools. Conversion of thousands of temporary J-Teach volunteers into permanent civil service roles to ensure stability and morale within the teaching workforce. Governor Namadis 12-Point Agenda identifies education as a top priority. A significant portion of the states annual budgetoften exceeding the UNESCO-recommended 20%is allocated to the education sector. The government has strengthened ties with international and local agencies, such as UBEC (Universal Basic Education Commission) and UNICEF, to improve school enrollment, particularly for girls and children in rural areas. There is an ongoing push to integrate ICT into basic education and modernise the Tsangaya (traditional Quranic) school system by introducing vocational skills, ensuring that students are competitive in the modern economy. The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, on Monday led a group of protesters to the National Assembly, demanding the inclusion of mandatory electronic transmission of results in Nigerias Electoral Act amendment. The protesters gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly to express their grievances over the removal of clauses mandating electronic transmission of election results. They carried placards with inscriptions such as: Akpabio dont destroy our democracy, Say no to electoral fraud, Akpabio dont dare the masses, stop betrayal of the ballot, The Senate must prioritise citizens over politics, The conference committee must protest the integrity of Nigerias electronic. Aside from Mr Obi, other human rights activists, including Aisha Yesufu, convener of the Bring Back Our Girls movement, and several others, were present at the protest. In the past few days, Nigerians have been intensely debating amendments to the Electoral Act passed by the Senate last Wednesday. Although several provisions of the law were amended, public attention has largely focused on one controversial clause which is the rejection of electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IREV). Public opinion has been largely divided. However, many political parties, politicians and social media users have condemned the amendments and urged lawmakers to reconsider them. Some civil groups and activists have since been calling for protests at the National Assembly. A group operating under the banner Enough is Enough was seen on socila media mobilising supporters using the hashtag #OccupyNASS. Amid the criticism, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, at a book launch on Saturday admitted that the lawmakers deliberately removed the provision for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results during the clause-by-clause consideration of the amendment bill. Mr Akpabio explained that lawmakers took the decision due to concerns that enforcing real-time transmission could lead to legal disputes in the event of network failures during elections. Obi speaks at protest Addressing journalists at the protest, Mr Obi urged members of the National Assembly to reconsider the amendment and include mandatory electronic transmission of results. The former presidential candidate said the country had suffered the consequences of flawed elections in the past and must not repeat such experiences. The president must hear, we have suffered the danger. Thats what we have suffered before. We dont want any glitch again. We want things to come back to normal. No more glitch, he said. Call for impeachment Mrs Yesufu, on her part, called for the impeachment of Mr Akpabio if the Senate under his leadership refuses to make electronic transmission of election results mandatory. The fact that hes the senate president only added responsibility. Impeach him if he does not want to do what the people want, thats all, she said. The activist said Mr Akpabio ought to prioritise the wishes of the masses and hold the executive arm or government accountable, accusing him of failing to do so. Youre the one that told us that youre helpless, youre not helpless, Nigerians voted for you, youre the activists in government, youre supposed to fight for Nigerians, youre supposed to hold the executive accountable. So, do not come and be playing on us as if youre helpless, she added. Mrs Yesufu also referenced the controversial Senate vote approving emergency rule in Rivers State, urging lawmakers to apply the same resolve to the inclusion of mandatory electronic transmission of election results. The National Assembly has the rights to pass law. They can have their two-third. We were sitting here when they were moving for Rivers emergency rule, the way they found that two-third, they must find it to pass the electronic transmission, she said. She further called on INEC to be independent and transparent in its operations to safeguard Nigerias electoral system. PREMIUM TIMES reported that amid the controversy over the passing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, the upper chamber will be holding an emergency session on Tuesday. An Osun State magistrates court in Osogbo has ordered the remand of four suspects at the Ilesha Correctional Centre over their alleged involvement in the killing of several residents of the Ido-Ayegunle community in Obokun Local Government Area of the state. The traditional ruler of the community, the Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunle, Timileyin Ajayi, said this in a statement on Sunday. According to the statement, the suspects Omolayo Oluwafemi, 32; Ogunleye Samuel Olaoluwa, 40; Anifowose Muritala, 40; and Alegbeleye Sunday, 63 were remanded for 30 days pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) of the state. The statement said the magistrate,Adekanmi Adeyeba, on 23 January ordered the remand following an application by the police, who said investigations were ongoing. The police accused the suspects of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, arson, and unlawful possession of firearms. The charges stemmed from a violent incident in Ido-Ayegunle in June 2025. Police prosecutor B.C. Adaraloye told the court that the suspects, alongside others still at large, allegedly carried out coordinated attacks in the community on 15 June 2025 at about 7:00 a.m., resulting in the deaths of Agboola Oluwafemi Sunday, Kingsley Nwagbana, Rasak Fadilulahi Adegoke, and Olayinka Sodiq. According to the prosecutor, victims were attacked with guns, cutlasses, knives, and other weapons, with some being beheaded or burnt alive. The suspects were also accused of setting fire to the Ido-Ayegunle Community Hall and unlawfully possessing a locally made single-barrel gun and a live cartridge. The prosecution stated that the offences contravene provisions of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Vol. II, Laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2002, and Section 3 of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, 2004. The magistrate noted that the court lacks jurisdiction to try murder cases and adjourned the matter to 22 February 2026 for mention, pending DPP advice. Community reactions Speaking with journalists in Osogbo, residents of Ido-Ayegunle praised Governor Ademola Adeleke for deploying security personnel to the area after the incident and called for justice for the victims. The Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunlemm condemned the killings as heartbreaking and unacceptable. He said, Innocent lives have been taken in Ido-Ayegunle fathers, youths, and people who deserve protection, not death. The killings have brought fear, grief, and unanswered questions into my land. We are not asking for revenge; we are asking for justice proper investigation, accountability for those responsible, and assurance that our community can live in safety. Mr Ajayi called on security agencies and government authorities to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice, pledging that the community would continue demanding accountability until peace is restored. The remand follows a deadly attack in which four people died, and several homes and properties were destroyed. Residents linked the violence to a longstanding land dispute. Eyewitness Ibironke Adebusuyi said the attack, which occurred around 10 a.m. in June 2025, involved about 100 armed men from neighbouring Esa-Oke, who shot sporadically and forced residents to flee. The bodies of the victims were allegedly dumped in a well and covered with stones and slabs. The accused Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Adediran, denied involvement and urged accusers to provide evidence. The Osun State Police Command confirmed the attack, recovering items from the scene to aid the investigation, while assuring residents that those responsible would be apprehended. Land and kingship dispute The crisis exposed a long-standing dispute over land ownership and traditional authority between Ido-Ayegunle and Esa-Oke. In a recent interview with the Punch newspaper, the Asiwaju of Esa-Oke, Dosu Fatokun, blamed the violence on internal divisions within Ido-Ayegunle and rejected allegations that youths from Esa-Oke carried out the attack. He also questioned the legitimacy of the Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunle, Oba Timileyin Ajayi, noting that the matter remains in court. In response, Mr Ajayi maintained that he is the legitimate traditional ruler of Ido-Ayegunle and accused individuals from Esa-Oke of attacking his community. Community leaders referenced past government panels of inquiry and pending white papers related to the dispute, which dates back decades and involves land ownership, traditional authority, and alleged political interference. The Osun State Government released official gazettes and memos to justify the recent appointment of Oba Ajayi Oluwatimileyin Oluyemi as Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunle. Documents confirmed the Owa Obokun of Ijesha Land as the prescribed authority, approved elevations of past Olojudos, and outlined the legal process followed in appointing the current Olojudo. The Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, stated that the Adeleke administration followed due process in appointing the new Olojudo and reiterated the governments commitment to prosecuting those responsible for the arson and killings. A former Senate President, David Mark, has said a single tenure is not enough for members of the National Assembly, and called for lawmakers to be given the chance to serve for more than four years. Mr Mark, who served for four terms spanning 20 years in the House before leaving in 2019, said new lawmakers do not know their way around in the first four years. The former lawmaker, who is now the national chairperson of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), spoke on Saturday at the launch of the book The Burden of Legislators in Nigeria, authored by a former senator, Effiong Bob. Premium Times Books published the book. Mr Mark, a retired brigadier general who represented Benue South Senatorial District in the upper chamber from 1999, didnt specify whether his appeal was directed at political parties or the electorate, but he noted that experienced lawmakers also have more influence in the house. I want to appeal that members, legislators, are giving more than one term, two terms, three terms. I spent 20 years in the Senate, and Im very grateful to my electorate and constituency for giving me that opportunity, he said. According to him, in his last years in the Senate, he needed no rule book as he already knew all the rules by heart. (In) the first four years in the National Assembly, you dont know your way around. You are just lost. You need more than that, he said. The point Im trying to emphasise is, this business of saying our own area here is only one term or two terms, then as soon as they elect you, (they say) you are not going to spend more than four years, so make maximum use of it. The maximum use will not be in four years. The Burdens Speaking about the book, Mr Mark commended the author, Mr Bob, for the courage to document the experiences of lawmakers while also sharing his own personal experiences. While he admitted some of the lawmakers burdens are self-inflicted through promises made while seeking elections, he noted that most of them are put on them by others. According to him, the legislators are at the mercy of the electorates from their constituencies, their state governors, the executive, the judiciary, and even their political parties, all of whom dictate their activities. I dont know how many of you here have contested the election, but the moment you are named by the party as an aspirant, either through your own desire or by imposition, you become Father Christmas. You have to, he said. From that point onwards, you solve all sorts of problems, you pay school fees, people who come with medical bills, with school fees, rent, everything. And God bless you, if you dont respond positively, you try to say this is too early. They will tell you, they are not ready for this business. Mr Mark also noted the role of meddlesome state governors who control their political parties and decide who gets to contest for the legislature. READ ALSO: Nigerian lawmakers complain of insufficient funds for committee works He recalled pleading with a certain state governor to allow someone to contest for an election, and the governor said he was not going to. I begged one of the governors for one of my legislators to be given a return ticket. You know what he told me? He said, I will not give him. Because hes in charge of the party at the state level. So if you want a return ticket, you are at the mercy of your governor. But if you are strong in your constituency, of course, you will not be able to influence it, he narrated. He also explained that lawmakers could be declared winners of an election and wouldnt be able to relax for years into their four-year tenure, as the case of their seats being challenged remains in court and could be overturned anytime. And then I say that the mercy of their party, why? Because the party will call you from time to time, they ask you to do a few things. If you dont do it, they say, we wont give you a ticket the next time around, he added. News / National by Staff reporter Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi has moved to address concerns raised by a group of foreign tourists following the wrongful arrest of one of their members in Chimanimani, an incident stemming from a traffic-related misunderstanding.In a bid to safeguard Zimbabwe's tourism image, Minister Rwodzi travelled to Chimanimani, accompanied by newly appointed Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) chief executive Dr George Manyaya. The visit underscored Government's commitment to promptly resolving issues affecting visitors to the country.The tourist was briefly detained after being accused of failing to comply with a road safety requirement relating to the number of reflective warning triangles in his vehicle. Authorities later established that the issue was based on a misunderstanding, as the alleged irregularity does not constitute an offence under existing regulations.The incident gained traction on social media, prompting swift intervention by the Ministry amid concerns over possible reputational damage to Zimbabwe's tourism sector.At the time, the tourist was taking part in the "ZimBho" domestic tourism campaign, an initiative aimed at encouraging both locals and international visitors to explore the country's tourism offerings.In a statement, the tourist praised Zimbabwe and its people, describing his experience as positive and characterised by warmth and hospitality. He said the ZimBho campaign had inspired his travels and noted that he had been documenting his journey for a global audience.Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) issued a statement acknowledging that the arrest resulted from a misunderstanding, adding that the officer involved had acted overzealously.Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring that law enforcement conduct supports the national objective of positioning Zimbabwe as a safe, welcoming and tourist-friendly destination. When he presented his budget proposals for 2024 to Nigerias National Assembly, the first full year of appropriations under his presidency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu identified as his priorities human asset development, poverty reduction and fighting insecurity. Last week, his official spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, appeared to forget or renounce that policy direction, when he acknowledged that 133 million Nigerians were multi-dimensionally poor but claimed that had nothing to do with the Federal Government. According to Mr. Onanuga, the states and local governments were responsible for that. On the same day, 450 kilometres away, Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, provided a full rebuttal of Mr. Onanugas escape into sovereign abdication. The occasion was the launch of the Stakeholder consultation of the South East Development Commission, SEDC for its regional development plan called South East Vision 2050 (SEV2050). At the event, the Vice-President went beyond merely reaffirming the leadership and responsibility of the Federal Government in eliminating poverty. He also underscored that this had to be inclusive, sustainable, and anchored on peace and productivity. This was not an unveiling of the SEV2050. Rather it kicked off the process to evolve one. It was also the coming out promenade of the SEDC. The Commission is one of the four regional development commissions established by President Tinubu under the Ministry of Regional Development. The others are in the north-central, north-west, south-west. Preceding these, the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has been in existence since 2000; and the North-East Development Commission, NEDC, since 2017. The Stakeholder consultation in Enugu was a credit to the Board of the SEDC chaired by Emega Wogu and the management led by the Managing Director, Mark Okoye. It was clearly a pitch for political support and constituency building for the Commission. The SEDC achieved the significant feat of lining up the public support of the governors of all five states of the south-east. By contrast, when its counterpart for the north-west organised similar event last month, none of the seven governors of the zone attended. Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, coincidentally the Chair of the South-East Governors Forum, was the only one of the five who did not attend in person. He sent the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly in his stead. It appears the Commission will not be short of goodwill as it sets out on its mission. Quite clearly also, it will not be short of human obstacles in its path. As its primary mission, the SEDC Act of 2024 charges the Commission with responsibility to receive and manage funds from allocations of the Federation Account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the region as a result of the effect of the Civil War. The SEDC is the only regional development commission with an explicit mission of post-war reconstruction. One question that the consultation put before the Commission was: reconstruction from which war? Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, addressed this question in his remarks arguing that the region was in recovery from not one war but two major wars. One was the Nigeria-Biafra war, which was supposed to have officially ended on 15 January 1970. The second was what he called an internal war of self-destruction that has been on since 2021. Some people may argue that his dating of this second conflict to 2021 is either artificial or unrealistically recent. It was notable that Governor Soludo failed to say who the parties were to this second war. Pointedly, however, he noted that after the (first) civil war, there was a promise of rehabilitation and reconstruction; and. this is yet to happen. What he left unsaid was that the failure to fulfill that promise made what he described as the second war all but inevitable. Whether that was deliberate or inadvertent is immaterial. Even as it sought to project an ambition over the next quarter century, the SEV2050 consultation could not escape the enduring backdrop of reconstruction that frames its search for a mission. The mistake will be to focus on brick and mortar and forget to prioritise a reconstruction of minds, memories, and mentalities. Vice-President Shettima acknowledged as much with some deftness in his opening remarks when he paid tribute to a region defined not only by memory, but by motion. Like Governor Soludo, what he left unsaid was even more eloquent. It was impossible to miss that he felt unable to say that this motion led to movement or progress. How to transform motion into movement and ultimately to regional progress more than half a century after the end of the conflict that continues to define independent Nigeria is what the SEDC seeks. On show were early signs of constructive competition among the states of the south-east. It begs to be harnessed. Abia State offers a vision for energy transition to inspire value-added processing and industry. Anambra State is willing to lead in enterprise and innovation. Ebonyi States value offer is in food security and agriculture value chain. Enugu State offers a secure home for a shared mission of co-ordination for regional prosperity. These reassure. But the event equally advertised the daunting challenges that confront the Commission along its path. Three were evident. One is a crisis of mismatched expectation. This was best illustrated by Governor Soludo. Having advised the Commission to be realistic in its ambitions, he nevertheless asked it to lead the delivery of a Marshall Plan for the south-east, a reference to the US-led plan for Europes reconstruction after World War II. According to Governor Soludo, this regional Marshall Plan should include a regional security framework, and super inter-state infrastructure such as regional railways and regional highways. The problem, however, is that an SEDC that purports to lead on the former is likely to antagonize the state governors and a Commission that claims to lead on the latter will be on a fools errand. Two is the problem of evolving a viable business model for the SEDC. For long, the NDDC has defined the business model of the regional development commissions. Under this model, these commissions operate largely as front offices for extortion which holds the fate of citizens of the concerned region(s) hostage in carve ups by political insiders sharing development funds as private loot. By 2022, according to one report on the NDDC, 12,000 out of 13,377 projects were abandoned after paying trillions of naira for them. As development agents, they have been largely ineffectual. The SEDC cant afford this. Three, therefore, SEDC will face pushback from the usual species of greedy political grubbiness. The event in Enugu had in attendance the Vice-President, the Governors of all the south-east States, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives who was represented by Majority Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere. But it was impossible not to notice the absence of the Chairman of the SEDC Committee in the Senate and former Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu; his counterpart in the House of Representatives, Chris Nkwonta; and the man who refers to himself as Number Six Citizen, Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu. Senator Orji Kalu reportedly sent one of his daughters to represent him. She holds no relevant public office. Anyone who thinks the near collective absence of the National Assembly caucus of the region was a coincidence misunderstands how the place works. As a convening, the SEV2050 event in Enugu has been arguably as successful as its planners could have hoped. In terms of its symbolisms and optics, it may indeed have exceeded expectations. The Commission will not be short of ideas as it goes forward; nor will it be short of determined antagonists. Post-war reconstruction is an existential undertaking. The SEDC has neither the budgets nor the latitude for the errors that have become the habits of the NDDC. If the Commission can confine its mission and secure protection against baleful political extortion from predictable sources, it may lay durable foundations under its current leadership for a business model suited to its unique and historic mission. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a lawyer, teaches at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and can be reached through [email protected]. A potential act of subversion of the public good reared its head in the Senates rejection of the electronic transmission of election results in real time, from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) database, during its consideration of amendments to Electoral Act 2022 last Wednesday. This was the most critical provision in the electoral reform bill placed before the National Assembly, which was arrived at through a painstaking engagement with and the consensus of stakeholders in the country. This thus opens the window for a prospective manipulation of election results in 2027, that will constitute a subversion of the sovereign will of the people, and the certainty of widespread post-election litigations, which bodes ill for our democracy. Yet, media reports indicate that a majority of senators voted to keep the electronic transmission in the amended bill, but which was rejected by the Senate leadership due to reason many find spurious and highly untenable, including the need to forestall a climate of electoral dissension and litigation. Opposition political parties in Senate, led by Enyinnaya Abaribe, at a press briefing, said that even the report of the ad hoc committee contained the real time electronic transmission of results. This was confimed by one of its members, Abdul Ningi. Another member, Aminu Tambuwal, was at the briefing of the members of opposition parties. The House of Representatives had passed its own version of the bill in December 2025, which differs markedly from that of the Senate; a development that now requires an harmonisation of the two versions for the onward transmission of a single bill to the President for assent. We urge the House to insist on its version embodying the will of the people and aggregate view of various stakeholders as that to be forwarded to the President. It was not surprising, therefore, that public outcry greeted the version of the bill passed by the Senate, especially from stakeholders, including opposition political parties and civil society organisations, which had vigorously pushed for the provision on the electronic transmission of results to enhance transparency and the integrity of Nigerias electoral processes and outcomes. One of the stakeholders described the Senate act as a deliberate assault on electoral transparency. Section 60 (3) of the Electoral Act 2022, which the Senate retains in its version, states that, The electoral officer shall transfer the results, including the number of accredited voters and the results of the ballot in a manner as prescribed by the Commission. This had led to the huge denunciation of the 2023 polls as a perversion of the public will, typified in the reported technical glitch that subverted the real-time transmission of results, making the outcome of the presidential poll highly contested and rejected in many quarters. Nigerias electoral antecedents often reveal that results are altered at collation centres. This monstrosity is what the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) real time electronic transmission to its IReV Portal seeks to cure. No applause to the senators for not being comfortable with this attempt at crucial reform. The amended Electoral Act which is yet to be ready would provide the legal framework for the conduct of the 2027 general elections. INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, had last Wednesday decried the National Assemblys delay in creating an enabling environment for the commissions work which has already been badly affected. The first casualty of the lawmakers indecisiveness is INECs 360 days Notice of Election, which has been reduced to 180 days. This is irreversible due to time constraints. Nigerians should resist the Senates non-altruistic embrace of ambiguities or loopholes in the version of the electoral law or guidelines it seeks to peddle, which preserves the status quo and is inimical to democratic consolidation in the country. In it, rather than endorse the proposed 10-year jail term penalty for vote-buying and selling initially proposed, it retained the two years in the old Act of 2022. The Red Chambers subterfuge gradually became evident penultimate week when the seven-member ad hoc panel, chaired by Adeniyi Adegbonmire, constituted to examine the report of its Standing Committee on Electoral Matters and gather inputs and aggregate the opinions of senators, submitted its report last Tuesday. Instead of an open consideration of the latter report, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio had earlier promised, the senators went into a closed-door session for this. In retrospect, the House of Representatives had passed the electoral reform bill in December 2025 and forwarded to the Senate for concurrence. But the House curiously returned to it for further deliberations, before it embarked on a two-week recess. The provisions of its passed bill were drafted to cure the controversies that the electronic transmission of results from polling units to the IReV in real time generated in the last election. The Supreme Court had, in its post-election judgment of 2023, declared that the IReV Portal is not part of the collation system, if not entrenched in the Electoral Act. Besides, the adoption of the electronic transmission ofresults is to be expressly stipulated in the law also. If these guardrails are not ulttimately codified in the amended electoral law, the Senate would have jettisoned clarity for opacity, and enabled the wiles of anti-democratic forces and opportunism at the expense of the national interest. The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room had held a protest in Abuja two weeks ago to pressure the Senate to do the needful. The protest is not merely about one billit is about whether Nigerias democratic institutions can act with foresight and responsibility, rather than waiting until the eve of elections to scramble for reforms, the group stated. Other crucial provisions of the Electoral Act include, but are not limited to the following: the imposition of stiffer penalties for vote-buying, which would now attract between 2 million and 5 million in fines or a 10-year jail term; and the fining of presiding officers who fail to stamp and sign the results they announce. Also, all the parties are required to submit electronic copies of their membership registers to INEC before conducting primaries to select candidates. This would make it impossible for losers in one party primary to defect to other parties to pick or snatch tickets, which led to the high number of candidate substitutions and the resultant pre-election litigations following the 2023 elections. At this point, PREMIUM TIMES makes bold to remind Mr Akpabio and his colleagues in the Senate of the wise counsel of a former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, on democratic consolidation that: The electoral process (must) be undergirded by two fundamental standards: credibility and integrity. This consciousness had underpinned the policy steps taken in the US after its presidential election of 2000, when electoral fraud in the State of Florida was flagged and investigated. Governor Jeb Bush thereafter signed the Florida Election Reform Act, 2001 into law, while federal reform bills were equally passed in both the House of Representatives and Senate to address the concerns that arose. Elections have been held in Nigeria in which ballot papers were not serialised or numbered; or stamped and signed by presiding officers; and voters out-numbered those accredited to vote. Yet, INEC and the courts took their turns in declaring winners, which denied the electorates their rights of making such calls. The public trust deficits arising thereof are still very much with us. These ought to have informed the making of unambiguous laws to return trust to our electoral processes, which the Senate appears bent on not doing, with its present attempt to subvert the popular will. So far, the parliament since 1999 has altered Nigerias electoral law five times, which were subsequently sabotaged by politicians and INEC, necessitating the need for continuous reforms to the enabling legislation guidding elections in the country. In very clear terms, the resolution to the present quandary demands that the country makes a clean break with its odious past. A former Governor of Bauchi State, Ahmed Adamu Muazu, has counseled the incoming administration in Bauchi State against wasting its time and resources probing the outgoing administration of Governor Bala Mohammed. Mr Mohammed was first elected governor in 2019, reelected on 2023 and would be completing his second term next year. Mr Muazu who served as governor of the state between 1999 and 2007 made this assertion while speaking during the public lecture organied to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its creation, held at the Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre, Bauchi. He advised the next administration in the State to instead focus on consolidating the positive developments already in place by the outgoing Bala Mohammed government. Mr Muazu said he believes in the continuity of projects that are beneficial to the people of the state, stressing that there is no need to waste valuable governance time on probing past administrations. I believe in continuation of good projects for the good of the people of the State; therefore, there is no need for wasting precious time of governance on probing. The Governor Bala Mohammed-led administration has done wonderfully well considering the various infrastructure spread across the State. I am urging all those aspiring for the gubernatorial seat in 2027 to develop an attractive blueprint that will clearly spell out what the developmental programmes will be. I will only support anyone who has a good and achievable blueprint, someone who knows what he is doing, someone who is coming up with an idea of building on the structure on the ground. I am ready to support anyone who has the best idea of what good governance is. I am ready to support such a person irrespective of political party. If you have a good blueprint, and you want my support, come and let us talk about it. If I am convinced, I will support you, he said. On his expectations for the next 50 years, he said, I want a better Bauchi State where there will be unity and support for each other. Other former governors and Military administrators who spoke at the occasion shared their experiences while in office and expressed happiness over the massive development done by the Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed-led administration. The Southern Governors Forum has commiserated with the Government and people of Kwara State over the deadly terrorist attacks that claimed at least 162 lives in the villages of Woro and Nuku. In a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Chairperson of the forum and Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragic and unfortunate act in which innocent and law-abiding citizens were brutally murdered while going about their lawful activities. The governor condemned the reported targeting of residents who allegedly refused to adopt Sharia law, noting that homes and shops were burnt while several people were kidnapped by the attackers, who are believed to be affiliated with Boko Haram. He described the act as most horrendous, stressing that Nigeria remains a secular state that respects freedom of religion. Mr Abiodun called on law enforcement agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, insisting that Nigerians deserve to live without fear of senseless violence. He said: On behalf of myself and my colleagues in the Southern Governors Forum, I express our deepest condolences over the dastardly terror attack in Kwara State, in which jihadists murdered innocent people in cold blood. This is senseless violence that must be nipped in the bud. We urge the security agencies to intensify their operations against the perpetrators of this terrible incident and bring them to book. They must never get away with this. They must be hunted down and dealt with severely. We commiserate with His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq, and the people of Kwara State over this tragic incident. We hope justice will be served while the security agencies do everything within their power to ensure that the slaughter of innocent citizens comes to an end. A prosecution witness at the FCT High Court, Abuja, on Monday provided details of how he allegedly received funds from some local governments of Taraba State, some individuals and a company associated with Taraba State Government or its officials during the administration of former Governor Darius Ishaku. Prince Onwuzunike appeared before the court as the second prosecution witness in the corruption trial of Governor Ishaku and Bello Yero, who was Permanent Secretary, Taraba State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during Mr Ishakus reign as governor. Mr Ishaku was the governor of the north-eastern state from 2015 to 2023. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting both of them on 15 counts of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and fraudulent conversion of N27 billion belonging to Taraba State. Mr According to the EFCC, the two defendants diverted the money from the contingency funds belonging to the states Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and certain local governments of the states into their private use. They both denied EFCCs allegations. Continuing his testimony from December 2025, Mr Onwuzunike told the court on Monday that he received millions of naira from Gashaka and Yorro local government areas (LGAs), P3 Cornerstone, Taiwo Jones, and John Columba between 2017 and 2019 through his account, which was domiciled in Zenith Bank. He earlier informed the court of how he became involved in the transactions due to his personal relationship with Mr Yero, explaining that he started receiving money on his behalf after being told to expect a money transfer alert from one Taiwo Jones. The witness, who was led in evidence by prosecution lawyer Rotimi Jacos, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), testified that following the credit entries, he made cash withdrawals and delivered the funds to Ismail Lawal, the first prosecution witness and Mr Ishakus former personal assistant. Details of transactions Mr Onwuzunike detailed how he allegedly received multiple payments from various Taraba State LGAs, including Ardo Kola, Gassol, and Yorro, on behalf of Mr Yero from 2019 to 2020. His Mondays testimony focused on the money he received from Mr Jones and P3 Cornerstone, which he previously said belonged to Mr Jones. I received N4 million from Taiwo Jones on 6 November 2017, N10 million, N9 million, N9million, N9 million and N4.3 million on 10 November 2017. It was withdrawn in cash and given to Mr Lawal, he said. On 6 February 2018, Mr Onwuzunike said he received two credit entries amounting to N14million from P3 Cornerstone and N6.6million from Mr Jones. He then withdrew over N20 million and handed it to Mr Lawal. There were similar entries and withdrawals in April, May, September and November 2018. On 4 April 2019, Mr Onwuzunike said he received N16 million from Mr Columba and N10.7 million from Mr Jones. He also withdrew over N50 million, which he handed to Mr Lawal. However, Mr Columbas relationship with the case is unclear at this stage of the trial. There were also other entries from P3 Cornerstone in April 2019. Then in July 2019, the witness said he received N25 million from Gashaka LGA and N28.5million from Yorro LGA. Mr Onwuzunike informed the court that, in 2016, he received lesser sums from Mr Jones. The small sums were sent to me to buy things for the message he (Mr Jones) sent me, while other credits that were not linked to Taraba State or individuals already mentioned, those ones are for my business. After his testimony, the trial judge, Slyvannus Orji, adjourned until 10 February for cross-examination. First witness testimony The first prosecution witness, Mr Lawal who took the stand before Mr Onwuzunike, had similarly shared details of the funds he allegedly received and distributed to people on behalf of Mr Ishaku. Mr Lawal previously worked for the former Governor Ishakus private business and later served as his personal assistant during his governorship. He admitted collecting money on behalf of the then-governor from Mr Yero, the second defendant. Mr Lawal said he also took money from Emmanuel Ifun, a recurring name in his testimony, who he identified as the Director of Finance, Government House. During a cross-examination session in November by Mr Ishakus lawyer, Eko Ejembi, also a SAN, the witness testified on the purposes of the transfers recorded in his notebook. Some are for security, while some are also for other people, he said. When he was referred to some pages of the notebook, which was earlier admitted as an exhibit, he said there were details of transfers to the State Security Service (SSS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Permanent Secretary, the Inspector General of Police, NASA, and SA Security Southern Zone. He confirmed that his bank statement and personal record showing the funds receipts from Taraba State Government officials and distribution to various beneficiaries did not feature former Governor Ishakus name. Instead, the witness said, the name of the former governors company, Worthy Construction Limited, appeared on the document. The Deputy Senate Leader, Lola Ashiru, has declared his intention to contest for the Kwara governorship seat in the 2027 general elections. Mr Ashiru, who is the senator for the Kwara South District, made his intention known while receiving executive members of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State, at his Offa country home. I am going to contest because I believe I have the best of credentials to rule Kwara State for the next four years, starting in 2027, and I believe I probably understand the people and the place called Kwara because I have been here longer than any contestant, he said. The current governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is from the central senatorial district, while his predecessor, Abdulfatah Ahmed from Kwara South, served two consecutive terms from 2011 to 2018. For its part, the Kwara North district has not produced a governor since Shaaba Lafiagi, who served for 22 months from January 1983 to November 1985. This has led to agitation for the Kwara North district to produce the next governor in 2027. However, Mr Ashiru said the governor should be elected on merit. The best thing is to give everybody a chance to choose the best leader. I sympathised with Kwara North because they had been cheated out of power for a very long time; they had a good reason to say its their turn, but power isnt like that. Its not served on a plate; you struggle for it. You present yourself for it. It doesnt really matter whether you are a Christian, because a Christian has won an election in Kwara State. Speaking on last weeks attack by bandits in the Kaiama Local Government Area of the state, the lawmaker called on governments at all levels to strengthen border security by promoting shared prosperity among border communities. He stressed that effective management of border communities would significantly reduce criminal activities. I feel our border links with neighbouring communities must be well managed. The first and most important step is to spread prosperity across these areas, he said. He added that special attention must be given to border and peripheral settlements, describing them as the first line of defence against external threats. According to him, states sharing boundaries must adopt a coordinated approach by investing in the welfare and development of their border communities. Niger State should protect its territory by spreading prosperity, Kwara State should do the same, and Kogi State should also ensure prosperity along the Eruku and Koro axis. If we adopt this approach, issues of killings and insecurity will be greatly curtailed, he stated. Mr Ashiru also commended the people of Woro for their resilience, offering prayers for the repose of the souls of those killed in Woro and Kaiama. We must not forget that countless people have been murdered. And I appreciate the efforts of the Federal Government for taking several steps to safeguard lives of the people, he said. He further called for a stronger developmental approach by governments, particularly at the state level, to address insecurity and promote sustainable peace across Nigeria. The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday upheld the Senates power to suspend the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over misconduct in March last year. In a unanimous decision, a three-member panel of judges ruled that neither Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghans parliamentary privileges nor her constitutional rights were violated by the suspension. The court, however, vacated the N5 million fine imposed on her for civil contempt and set aside the entire contempt proceedings initiated against her following a satirical apology she made to Senate President Godswill Akpabio in a social media post. In the lead lead judgement delivered by Abba Muhammed, the Court of Appeal held that the senate president acted within his authority when he denied Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan the opportunity to speak during plenary on 20 February 2025, noting that she was not in the official seat allocated to her. The court noted that the senate president was empowered by chamber rules to assign seats to lawmakers and that members may speak only from their designated positions. Background Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended following a dispute with Mr Akpabio during Senate proceedings on 20 February 2025 over the seat allocated to her in the chamber. On 6 March 2025, the Senate adopted a report by its Ethics Committee and suspended her for six months, citing misconduct and violation of Standing Orders. The suspension barred her from performing her duties, sealed her office, and withheld her salaries and allowances. She was eligible to return earlier only if she submitted a written apology, which she refused. Meanwhile, before the Senate handed down its decision to sanction her, she had filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja to stop the disciplinary proceedings. After she she was suspended, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan urged the court to set aside the disciplinary proceedings including the suspension. She described the Senates action as punitive, unconstitutional, and linked to an earlier sexual harassment petition she had filed against Mr Akpabio, which he denied. About four months later, the court ruled that the suspension was excessive and ordered her recall, but stopped short of mandating her reinstatement. The judge, Binta Nyako, also fined her N5 million for contempt over a social media post made while the suit was ongoing and directed her to issue a public apology. Due to the controversial nature of the verdict, oth Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan and Mr Akpabio subsequently filed appeals to contest various aspects of the ruling. Meanwhile, the Senate did not immediately reinstate her, arguing that the court had not ordered such action and that the matter remained under litigation. When the six-month suspension ended on 4 September 2025, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan notified the National Assembly of her intention to resume. The Senate initially refused, citing the ongoing court proceedings. The furore ended on 23 September 2025, when officials unsealed her office, which had remained closed since March. But the legal actions continued. Mondays judgement will likely set off the next phase of appeals at the Supreme Court. A prosecution witness told the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday how hundreds of millions of naira allegedly diverted from an account of the Kogi State Government House were used to acquire high-end properties in choice areas of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Ahmed Abubakar, who is an operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), appeared as the 17th prosecution witness in the money laundering trial of Ali Bello, the Chief of Staff to the Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo. Mr Bello, a nephew of the immediate past Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, is facing prosecution alongside Dauda Sulaiman and one Abdulsalami Hudu, a former cashier of the Kogi State Government House said to be at large. EFCC is prosecuting the defendants on 16 counts of money laundering involving alleged diversion of over N10 billion from the treasury of Kogi State during the tenure of Governor Bello, who himself faces criminal trials before two different courts over charges of diversion of funds beloning to the Kogi State Government. The anti-graft agency accused the younger Bello and his co-defendant of misappropriation and money laundering, involving alleged withdrawal of over N10 billion from the Kogi State treasury and delivering it to a Bureau de Change operator, Rabiu Tafada, in Abuja, to keep or convert to foreign currencies for personal use. EFCCs spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, shared a statement with PREMIUM TIMES highlighting Mondays testimony of the 17th prosecution witness. Testimony on different counts The witness, Mr Abubakar, who is a Deputy Superintendent of the EFCC, testified on Monday that the first defendant, Ali Bello, used N900 million to acquire a property located at No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja, Spring Hall School. My Lord, the property belongs to a Honourable from Bauchi State and was put up for sale for that amount. The first defendant procured the services of a lawyer, Barrister Ramalan, to broker the transaction. Barrister Ramalan carried out the instruction as directed by the first defendant, and the property was eventually purchased. The payment was made in cash at the office of the Bureau de Change in Zone 4, Abuja, after the naira equivalent was converted to dollars. That was the finding of our investigation regarding the transaction, the witness said. The witness further stated that the funds used for the purchase were withdrawn at different times from the Adminstration Account of the Kogi State Government House. When shown Exhibit H by prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the witness confirmed that it was a Deed of Assignment between Pauchi Ventures Nigeria Limited and Y3 Nigeria Limited. Asked to identify Y3 Nigeria Limited, the witness explained: My Lord, Y3 is the company provided by the first defendant to his lawyer for the preparation of the Deed of Assignment. Moving to count four of the charge, Mr Oyedepo said the defendant allegedly used N920 million to acquire a property located at No. 2 Justice Chukwudi (or Oguta) Street, Asokoro, Abuja, funds he reasonably ought to have known were proceeds of unlawful activity. Responding, the witness confirmed that the EFCC identified the property during investigations. My lord, the transaction was brokered by the former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, himself. He approached a contractor friend who had recently acquired the property through Wastle Motors, owned by Alhaji Said Dantsoho. They agreed on a price, and the owner accessed a facility from Access Bank. It was agreed that the property would be sold at the same amount it was acquired. Payment was to be made in kind because His Excellency had just assumed office and promised to patronise the contractor during his administration. An account was provided into which loan repayments would be made. During the period, there were numerous cash deposits from Lokoja and transfers from the Bureau de Change operated by Rabiu Tafada, including through his company, Busynet. All BDC transfers were carried out on the instruction of the first defendant, Ali Bello. That is how the property was paid for, My Lord, the witness said. He also said the total facility collected as of 21 March 2018, stood at N808,698,263.29 (about N808.7 million). Mr Abubakar further told the court that on 8 April 2020, multiple cash deposits were made at the Lokoja branch of Access Bank towards servicing the loan. He listed the deposits as follows: Victor Ashimo N3,650,000 Surajo Samson N7,700,000 Sikiru Lariyat N6,650,000 Yusuf Mustapha N6,800,000 Nasiru Mustapha N6,500,000 Adamu Mamman N6,700,000 Shehu Afeez N9,500,000 Musa Umar N9,600,000 Mohammed Baba N8,900,000 Victor Obafemi N8,400,000 Olushola Hakeem 9,200,000 Yahaya Ahmed N7,600,000 Tony Olaoluwa N6,800,000 Habib Sulaiman 8,200,000 Yakubu Hamid N7,500,000 Sunday Sylvester N6,900,000 Aminu Sani N8,700,000 Job Awe N9,500,000 Emmanuel Christopher N6,600,000 Abdulsalami Aliyu N8,300,000 Yunusa I. Isiyak N7,000,000 Sulaiman Alhassan N7,300,000 Yakubu Idris N8,900,000 Jamiu Sule N8,100,000 Ismaila Nasiru N7,900,000 Yusuf Usman 8,500,000 Obafemi Ajayi N8,800,000 Abdullahi Sani N7,800,000 When asked if all the payments were made in cash, the witness replied, Yes, My lord. He further stated that the source of the funds used to service the loan was the Administration Account of the Kogi State Government House. On count five, the witness testified that N170 million was used to acquire a property located on Marsin Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, directly behind the residence of former Governor Yahaya Bello at No. 9 Benghazi Street. Our investigation revealed that the funds were withdrawn from the Kogi State Government House Administration Account. The transaction was brokered by the first defendant in conjunction with his late BDC associate, Murtala Maigari, he said. The property owner, a retired Deputy Comptroller of Prisons, Ishaya Adamu Jagaba, supplied an account into which N100 million was paid, while N70 million was converted to United States dollars. Regarding count six, Mr Abubakar said the defendants aided the use of N100 million to acquire a property at No. 1773 Guzape Street, Abuja, with funds traced to the Kogi State Government House Administration Account through a bureau de change. On count seven, he confirmed the acquisition of a property at No. 176, Plot 4882, Lome Street, Wuse, Abuja, also funded from the same government account. On count eight, the witness told the court that N66 million was paid for a property at Plot 739 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja, using cash withdrawn from the Administration Acccount of the Kogi State Government House, stressing that the payment was not made on behalf of the Kogi State Government. The witness had earlier testified on how hundreds of millions of naira were moved from the Administration Account of the Kogi State Government House and security votes to purchase properties and renovate the family house of former Governor Yahaya Bello. Trial judge James Omotosho scheduled further hearing for 16 to 19 February. Data released by the Akwa Ibom State Government shows that the state has vaccinated 1.29 million children in the ongoing nationwide MeaslesRubella immunisation campaign, just six days after the exercise commenced in the state. The immunisation campaign targets children to protect them against measles and rubella, two highly contagious viral diseases that remain a major cause of childhood illness and death in Nigeria despite the availability of effective vaccines. Nigeria periodically conducts mass immunisation campaigns as part of efforts to close immunity gaps, reduce the number of zero-dose children who have never received any routine vaccine and meet national and global public health targets. The Commissioner for Health in Akwa Ibom, Ekem Emmanuel, posted the data on his verified Facebook page on Monday, noting that the figure was recorded as of 12 noon on Day 6 of the campaign. According to him, the vaccination exercise, which began last Wednesday, is being implemented by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health through the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, with the backing of Governor Umo Eno. Mr Emmanuel explained that data collation from the field was still ongoing and that not all figures for Monday had been fully uploaded and disaggregated at the time of the update. He said preliminary aggregated results already showed strong performance across the states 31 local government areas. I am pleased to inform you that as of 12 p.m. today (Day 6 of the campaign), we have vaccinated over 1.3 million children, the commissioner said. Although the commissioner said the number of vaccinated children was over 1.3 million, the data he posted showed N1.29 million. The health commissioner acknowledged the roles played by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, the leadership of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in the state, and council chairpersons, while describing frontline health workers as the real heroes of the campaign. Mr Emmanuel said the state government is committed to ensuring that no child is left behind, and that Akwa Ibom is determined to eliminate deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases. Our commitment is clear that no Akwa Ibom child should ever die from a vaccine-preventable illness, he stated. Two people lost their lives on Sunday following a tanker explosion opposite the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office along the Ihiala-Onitsha Road in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. Bridget Asekhauno, Sector Commander (FRSC), in Anambra, confirmed the incident to journalists in Awka. Mrs Asekhauno said the incident involved a commercial tanker with no registration number, conveying inflammable content and a motorcycle with no registration number. Eyewitnesses said the tanker driver, who was speeding, lost control and rammed into a roadside barricade before an explosion occurred, which also affected a motorcycle trailing behind. The explosion led to the deaths of the tanker driver and his conductor, while the motorcycle rider sustained injuries and was rescued. A total of three male adults were involved in the crash, with two fatalities recorded, while one injured victim was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, for treatment. The sector commander explained that the FRSC rescue operatives, alongside fire service personnel, responded promptly to the incident and successfully extinguished the fire. She commiserated with the families of the deceased and urged motorists to adhere strictly to speed limits and remain attentive while driving to prevent avoidable crashes. Other recent fatal road accidents There have been other fatal road accidents on Nigerian highways in recent times. At least 12 people were killed in September last year in a road accident along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway, Imo State. On 28 November last year, six people died in a collision between a truck and a bus at Nawfia axis, near Enugu-Agidi Junction, along the AwkaOnitsha Expressway, Anambra. On 22 November last year, five people were killed along the LapaiSuleja Road in Niger State in an accident involving a truck and a passenger vehicle. Thirty-four passengers were injured in the accident. On 18 October last year, at least six people were killed in a road accident near the Nkalagu Flyover, along the NkalaguEnugu Expressway, Ebonyi State, when a commercial bus collided with a tipper truck. (NAN) News / National by Staff reporter Former Renaissance Financial Holdings group chief executive officer, Patterson Timba (59), is expected to appear before the Kadoma Magistrates Court this afternoon facing a rape charge.According to the State outline, Timba allegedly raped a female employee at Tolrose Mine in Kadoma in October 2023.Prosecutors allege that the complainant was employed as a security guard at the mine, where Timba was a director. On the day in question, she was reportedly assigned to carry out household duties at Timba's residence after the housemaid failed to report for work.The State alleges that as the complainant was preparing to leave the house, Timba sexually assaulted her.Court papers state that the complainant did not immediately report the alleged incident but confided in another person two days later, without receiving assistance.In September 2025, the complainant is said to have disclosed the alleged assault to a different individual, who advised her to report the matter to the police.She subsequently filed a report and was referred to Kadoma General Hospital for a medical examination. The State says the medical report will be produced in court as part of the evidence.Timba has not yet pleaded to the charge. The Police Command in Enugu State has detained four suspected vandals and recovered a trailer load of vandalised bridge parts and cut-off oil pipes in two separate operations in the state. Daniel Ndukwe, the police spokesperson in Enugu State, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu. Mr Ndukwe, a superintendent of police, said the police operatives recovered the vandalised components of the iron bridge, loaded onto a 40-foot trailer and pieces of suspected carbon-steel oil and gas pipes. He said that both operations were carried out by the Command serving in the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Squad, during routine patrols. On 6 February, at about 6:45 p.m., operatives of SWAT Squad, while on routine patrol along the Sagem/AmaechiIdodo axis of the EnuguPort Harcourt Expressway, intercepted a white MAN Diesel 40-foot trailer conveying vandalised iron bridge parts. Three male suspects, identified as Okwudili Agbo, 45; Emmanuel Onyemachi, 18; and Evans Monday, 29, were immediately detained in connection with the incident. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects and their cohorts currently at large vandalised the bridge parts at Eziama Bridge, Amechi-Idodo, in Nkanu East Local Government Area of the state, he said. Mr Ndukwe said that in a second operation on the same date at about 11:56 p.m., the same SWAT operatives, while on patrol along Owoh/Ubahu Road in Nkanu East Local Government Area, intercepted and detained a suspect, Hyacinth Orjiakor, 50. Orjiakor was found assembling vandalised suspected carbon steel oil and gas pipes. Several pieces of the pipes and one gas cylinder were recovered from him. Investigative efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects currently at large, while the cases will be prosecuted in court once investigations are concluded, he said. Mr Ndukwe said the states commissioner of police commended the operatives for their vigilance, prompt detention of the suspects and the recoveries made. He said that the state police chief also reiterated the commands commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state. The spokesperson warned that vandals should desist forthwith from their criminal activities, as the command would not relent in its efforts to track down and bring all perpetrators to justice. Bridge vandalism in Nigeria There have been several instances of bridge vandalism in Nigeria, specifically targeting critical infrastructure in Lagos and the South-east. Nigerias Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in June 2024, lamented the vandalisation of infrastructure on the Second Niger Bridge in Anambra State. It is heartrending that the facilities are being vandalised by those who are meant to own the benefits it serves, Mr Umahi had said, describing the vandalisation as cruel. Before the ministers reaction, a social media influencer, Anayo Usulor, popularly known as Lord Zues, had uploaded a video clip on Facebook showing the vandalised part of the Second Niger Bridge. In the clip, some rail fittings installed on the bridge were uprooted and vandalised by unknown persons. Mr Usulor had called on the authorities to investigate the development. He expressed fears that the destruction could cause an accident along the bridge. In another clip, the social media influencer was seen at the bridge with armed police officers. He explained that he reported the matter to the divisional police officer at C-Division Headquarters in Asaba, Delta State, who subsequently deployed operatives to recover the uprooted rail fittings and bring them to the facility for safekeeping. (NAN) NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Orange County housing costs continue to rise, Hoag today announced a $30 million philanthropic commitment from longtime supporters Ron and Sandi Simon to advance a workforce housing assistance program designed to support nurses and other essential employees across the organization. This gift comes at a pivotal time as Hoag prepares for significant workforce growth with the upcoming opening of Hoag's Sun Family Campus in Irvine later this year and the addition of approximately 1,000 new jobs. The program builds on Hoag's ongoing efforts to support its workforce and will provide approximately $1.25 million annually in housing stipends for eligible employees while advancing long-term solutions, including securing permanent workforce housing. Together, these efforts aim to strengthen recruitment and retention and ensure caregivers can continue serving the communities they call home. "Our caregivers are the cornerstone of everything we do at Hoag, and supporting them is fundamental to our long-term success," said Michael Krug, SPHR, Chief Human Resources Officer, Hoag Health. "This remarkable gift comes at a defining moment as we expand our workforce and our reach across Orange County. By helping address housing affordability for our valued team members, we are investing in recruitment and retention and ensuring Hoag is well positioned to meet the needs of our growing communities." The Simon family's gift reflects their longstanding commitment to supporting caregivers and enables Hoag to pursue innovative housing support solutions as part of its broader workforce strategy. "For decades, Ron and Sandi Simon have been extraordinary partners in advancing excellence, innovation, and care at Hoag," said Caroline A. Pereira, MBA, President of Hoag Hospital Foundation. "This gift builds on that legacy by investing directly in the people who make our mission possible every day. Supporting our workforce is fundamental to sustaining the high-quality care our community relies on." In addition to this gift, the Simon family has supported a broad range of initiatives at Hoag, including the Ron & Sandi Simon Research, Innovation, and Education Fund, which has strengthened clinical research infrastructure and accelerated the launch of new clinical trials, and the Ron & Sandi Simon Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair at the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute, held by Adam S. Kanter, MD, MS, MBA, FAANS, which advances clinical leadership and innovation in neurological care. "This initiative aligns deeply with Hoag's history and values," said Ron Simon. "We're proud to support an effort that helps caregivers live and work in the communities they serve while strengthening healthcare across Orange County." With more than 9,000 employees, Hoag is one of Orange County's top 10 largest employers. Its workforce includes nurses, physicians, technicians, administrative professionals, environmental services teams, and many others whose collective efforts create a seamless, compassionate patient experience. "As Hoag continues to expand, support from philanthropic partners like Ron and Sandi Simon helps ensure the organization is well positioned for the future. It's an investment in people, in planning, and in the long-term strength of healthcare in our community," said Pereira. "From the very beginning, Hoag has believed that supporting caregivers is essential to delivering exceptional care. In 1952, when our hospital first opened, the initial expansion was dedicated not to patients but to staff, thanks to Grace E. Hoag, who personally funded housing for nurses. Her commitment to caring for caregivers remains at the heart of who we are." Robert Braithwaite, President and CEO, Hoag About Hoag Hoag is a nonprofit, regional healthcare delivery system in Orange County, California. Delivering world-class, comprehensive, personalized care, Hoag consists of 1,800 top physicians, 18 urgent care facilities, 13 health and wellness centers, and two award-winning hospitals. Hoag offers a comprehensive blend of healthcare services that includes seven institutes providing specialized services in the following areas: cancer, digestive health, heart and vascular, neurosciences, spine, women's health, and orthopedics through Hoag's affiliate, Hoag Orthopedic Institute, which consists of an orthopedic hospital and five ambulatory surgical centers. Hoag is the highest ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report and the only OC hospital ranked in the Top 10 in California, as well as a designated Magnet with Distinction hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). For more information, visit hoag.org . About Hoag Hospital Foundation Thanks in large part to philanthropy, Hoag has become one of the nation's finest healthcare systems, serving a diverse and growing population. The Hoag Hospital Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hoag, is an integral partner in Hoag's vision to become a trusted and nationally recognized healthcare leader. Through the generosity of Hoag's dedicated donors, the Hoag Hospital Foundation's Boldly Hoag campaign is supporting the expansion of Hoag, starting on the Irvine campus. Scheduled to be complete in 2026, the new Sun Family Campus will provide increased access to specialized services for cancer, digestive health, and women's health for communities throughout South Orange County. For more information, visit hoaghospitalfoundation.org. About Ron and Sandi Simon and RSI Dream Communities Ron and Sandi Simon are recognized philanthropists in Orange County, supporting healthcare, education, and community initiatives. Their nonprofit, RSI Dream Communities, focuses on creating affordable housing opportunities for "local heroes" such as nurses, teachers, and first responders. SOURCE Hoag LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The DJS Law Group announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of agilon health, inc. ("Agilon" or "the Company") (NYSE: AGL) for violations of the securities laws. INVESTIGATION DETAILS: The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Agilon announced on August 4, 2025, that President, CEO, and Board Director Steven Sell stepped down from his positions. The Company added, "In a separate press release, the Company today also issued its second quarter 2025 earnings results. As part of that announcement, and in conjunction with this leadership transition, the Company is withdrawing its previous full year 2025 earnings guidance." Based on this news, shares of Agilon fell more than 27% in after hours trading following the Company's release. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, contact us to participate. WHY DJS LAW GROUP? DJS Law Group's primary focus is to enhance investor return through balanced counseling and aggressive advocacy. We specialize in securities class actions, corporate governance litigation, and domestic/international M&A appraisals. Our clients are some of the largest and most sophisticated hedge funds and alternative asset managers in the world. The litigation claims of our clients are extraordinarily valuable assets that demand respect, focus, and results. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics. CONTACT: David J. Schwartz DJS Law Group 274 White Plains Road, Suite 1 Eastchester, NY 10709 Phone: 914-206-9742 Email: [email protected] SOURCE DJS Law Group LLP Study finds 62% of top comments are supportive or neutral to allergy/immunology misinformation online. MILWAUKEE, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Allergy misinformation receives high engagement and little correction according to new research published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (JACI: In Practice). "Patients are arriving in clinic already influenced by what they've seen on social media," said lead author Samira Jeimy, MD, PhD, FRCPC. "We found that the most engaging allergy/immunology social media content is often the least accurate, especially those around natural remedies and IgG testing. Understanding these patterns helps us meet patients where they are and respond more effectively." In this study, researchers conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 347 publicly available social media posts "containing demonstrably false or misleading claims" from platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) between January and March 2025. Posts with more than 500 interactions were identified using systematic keyword searches and analyzed for themes of misinformation by independent reviewers, while public sentiment was assessed through examination of the top-ranked comments on the social media posts. Misinformation was defined as "health-related claims that contradicted established guidelines or consensus positions from authoritative allergy and immunology organizations." Researchers identified five primary misinformation themes including natural/alternative cures, IgG testing endorsement, medications fear-mongering, food allergy misrepresentation and pharmaceutical conspiracy, noting natural/alternative cures as the most prevalent theme featured in 31% of the examined posts followed by IgG testing endorsement included in 24% and medication fear-mongering in 18% of the sampled social media posts. While exploring dominant themes and engagement patterns, researchers found the conspiracy theme showed the most pronounced platform bias, concentrated on X at 19% and Facebook at 17% of the examined posts. The results also found that 2,151 of top 3,470 comments were supportive or neutral toward misinformation content while only 1,319 (38%) challenged false claims. The prevalence of allergy/immunology misinformation on social media can be harmful for patients, "compromising evidence-based care." Awareness of these patterns of online misinformation can allow experts to develop strategies providing accurate, safe information for their patients and support critical patient education efforts. Visit aaaai.org to learn more about myths surrounding allergic diseases. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) is the leading membership organization of more than 7,100 allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists and other professionals with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic and immunologic diseases. Established in 1943, the AAAAI is the go-to resource for patients living with allergies, asthma and immune deficiency disorders. SOURCE American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) Local Franchise Owner Shawn Cothran Opens New Location in Johnston County ROCKLIN, Calif., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Always Best Care Senior Services, a leading provider of non-medical in-home senior care and assisted living referral services, announces the expansion of Always Best Care of Johnston County, further extending the brand's reach in the Greater Raleigh and Johnston County region. Franchisee Shawn Cothran's acquisition of two new territories in Johnston County solidifies Always Best Care's presence across Raleigh and surrounding communities. The new territories will provide families with access to Always Best Care's comprehensive non-medical in-home care services, as well as independent and assisted living referral services designed to support seniors as they age. Always Best Care of Johnston County is located at 12450 Cleveland Rd, Ste. 104 in Garner, North Carolina. To celebrate the expansion, the Johnston County office will hold a ribbon-cutting and a Pig Pickin on April 2 from 4-6 p.m. The event is open to the community. Experienced Senior Care Leadership with Deep Local Roots Cothran, an Apex native, has 18 years of experience in senior care. Before joining Always Best Care's Wake Forest office in 2021, he held roles in dining services and more than a decade as an Executive Director for assisted living communities in Illinois and North Carolina. Cothran is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and both he and Elizabeth Cruz, Chief Operating Officer, are Certified Trainers for the Virtual Dementia Tour, a nationally recognized experiential program designed to build empathy and understanding of dementia. Together, they conduct dementia education and training across community centers and assisted, independent, and skilled nursing facilities. To further strengthen community support, the new Johnston County office will also host dementia support groups, providing education, connection, and resources for individuals and families navigating cognitive change. "Having worked on the front lines of senior care for nearly two decades, I've seen how important it is for families to have clear guidance, reliable caregivers, and compassionate support they can trust," said Cothran. "Expanding into Johnston County allows us to extend those services to more seniors who want to remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home while also giving families confidence that their loved ones are in good hands." Senior Care Services in Johnston County Always Best Care offers a broad range of in-home senior care services, designed to support adults aging in place: In-home personal care services Bathing, dressing, grooming Mobility support and fall prevention Medication reminders Transportation to appointments Light housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation Companionship and social engagement Specialized care programs Dementia and Alzheimer's support Respite care for family caregivers Post-hospitalization and transitional care Health and safety monitoring technologies Assisted living referral services Always Best Care's experienced placement team provides complimentary consultative services, working closely with seniors and families to identify the best possible living and care options for each individual's needs. In addition to expanding services in Johnston County, the organization brings a well-rounded approach to supporting seniors and families across a variety of care needs. The team offers dementia-informed, person-centered care supported by ongoing caregiver education and evidence-based tools. Always Best Care of Johnston County is also proud to serve local veterans and their families through participation in the VA Community Care Network, providing high-quality in-home care that supports independence and aging in place. This commitment is strengthened by two veterans on the organization's team who are dedicated to helping fellow veterans understand their benefits and guiding them through the Community Care process, ensuring a knowledgeable, compassionate, and seamless experience. Continued Expansion Across the Raleigh area and Eastern North Carolina In addition to the Johnston County territory, Cothran also owns Always Best Care of Wake ForestNorth Raleigh and Always Best Care of Wilmington. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the state ranks 8th in the nation for population aged 65 and older. With an aging population and a strong need for compassionate, professional support, North Carolina continues to present significant opportunities for the brand's franchise owners. What Does Leadership Say About Expansion? Jake Brown, President and CEO of Always Best Care, praised the expansion and Cothran's continued growth across North Carolina: "Shawn has demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational excellence as he has grown his presence across Johnston County and eastern North Carolina," said Brown. "Starting his journey with Always Best Care as an employee, Shawn quickly proved his ability to build strong teams, deliver consistent, high-quality care, and earn the trust of families and referral partners. His expansion into Johnston County reflects both his success as a franchise owner and our confidence in his ability to continue extending Always Best Care's mission to serve seniors with compassion, reliability, and respect." About Always Best Care Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 29 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company's clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas. For more information regarding Always Best Care Senior Services, please visit www.alwaysbestcare.com. Local Service Information Always Best Care of Johnston County SOURCE Always Best Care CAMDEN, N.J., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., joins important conversations during the 2026 National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Winter Policy Summit, held February 8 through February 11, 2026, in Washington, D.C. "At American Water, our priority is providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to our customers," said John Griffith, President and Chief Executive Officer, American Water. "Whether it's investing in system resiliency, leveraging technologies that enhance customer satisfaction, or using advanced tools to detect and address leaks more quickly, our efforts are always focused on finding practical solutions that directly benefit those we serve." The Winter Policy Summit brings together commissioners, regulators, utilities and industry leaders. American Water presenters are as follows: Cheryl Norton, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer , American Water , will participate on the panel Resilience in Action: Teams Working Together When Everything Else Falls Apart, which will focus on how essential service providers collaborate with public officials during crises. , , will participate on the panel which will focus on how essential service providers collaborate with public officials during crises. Deb Degillio, Vice President, Chief Technology and Information Officer, American Water , will speak on the AI in Water panel. The session will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the water sectorsuch as optimizing water treatment, monitoring system performance, and improving customer engagement, while supporting environmental sustainability. , will speak on the panel. The session will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the water sectorsuch as optimizing water treatment, monitoring system performance, and improving customer engagement, while supporting environmental sustainability. Justin Ladner, President, Pennsylvania American Water, will speak at the Water Committee Business Meeting about American Water's Leak Detection Program and its impact on reducing water loss and improving service reliability through smart infrastructure. American Water plays a critical role in addressing infrastructure needs, protecting water quality and supporting workforce development. Through leadership participation in conferences and summits like NARUC, the company continues to engage with regulators and key stakeholders to advance innovative, customer-focused solutions. For more information about the 2026 NARUC Winter Policy Summit, visit https://www.naruc.org/winter-summit/. About American Water American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram. SOURCE American Water FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX) today announced the successful completion of the previously announced spin-off of BD's Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions business and the combination of the business with Waters Corporation (NYSE: WAT). In connection with the transaction, BD shareholders will receive approximately 0.135 shares of Waters common stock for each share of BD common stock that they held as of the close of business on February 5, 2026, the record date for the spin-off, with cash in lieu of any fractional shares of Waters common stock, and BD received $4 billion of cash. As of the closing of the transaction, BD's shareholders owned shares of Waters common stock representing 39.2% of the outstanding shares of the combined company on a fully diluted basis. Based on the closing price of Waters common stock on February 6, 2026, the transaction valued the BD Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions business at $18.8 billion. BD expects to use $2 billion of the proceeds to repurchase BD common shares through an accelerated share repurchase program and the remaining $2 billion for debt repayment. Both initiatives are expected to be executed in the near term, subject to market conditions. "The successful combination of our Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions business with Waters marks the final milestone of our BD 2025 strategy, positioning BD for its next chapter as a focused, pure-play MedTech company built for the next era of healthcare. Over the last several years, we have deliberately shaped our portfolio including divesting three substantial non-core assets and completing more than 20 strategic tuck-in acquisitions to strengthen our presence in some of the most attractive areas in healthcare. As a result, BD is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the trends we've identified as shaping the future of healthcare: the rise of smarter connected devices and AI; the shift of care to more convenient settings; and rapid advances in technologies for chronic disease," said Tom Polen, Chairman, CEO, and President of BD. "Looking ahead, BD is accelerating execution through our Excellence Unleashed strategy strengthening our commercial engine, leading with differentiated innovation, and delivering with exceptional quality and world-class operations. Combined with our global scale, leading positions in the majority of markets we serve, and highly recurring consumables model, we believe BD is well-positioned to generate durable revenue, margin, and cash flow growth to drive shareholder value," Polen added. BD also reported first-quarter fiscal year 2026 financial results today. Pursuant to the terms of the transaction agreement, Claire M. Fraser, Ph.D., has been appointed to the Waters Corporation Board of Directors effective upon the closing of the transaction, and is simultaneously stepping down from the BD Board of Directors, following nearly two decades of dedicated service. Polen concluded, "On behalf of the BD Board and management team, we thank Claire for her invaluable contributions to BD. Claire's leadership and expertise in genomics, infectious diseases and molecular diagnostics have been instrumental in guiding our company through transformative periods and shaping the strategic direction of BD. She will provide significant expertise to Waters as part of their Board, and we wish her continued success." Citi served as lead financial advisor to BD, and Evercore also served as a financial advisor. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz served as lead legal counsel to BD. About BD BD is one of the world's largest pure-play medical technology companies with a Purpose of advancing the world of health by driving innovation across medical essentials, connected care, biopharma systems and interventional. The company supports those on the frontlines of healthcare by developing transformative technologies, services and solutions that optimize clinical operations and improve care for patients. Operating across the globe, with more than 60,000 employees, BD delivers billions of products annually that have a positive impact on global healthcare. By working in close collaboration with customers, BD can help enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase clinical efficiency, improve safety and expand access to healthcare. For more information on BD, please visit bd.com or connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/bd1/ , X @BDandCo or Instagram @becton_dickinson . Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking information about the completion of the transaction in which BD spun off its Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions business and combined it with Waters Corporation, as well as BD's pipeline, Excellence Unleashed strategy and actions to enhance shareholder value, including their potential benefits, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction with Waters; our ability to execute the Excellence Unleashed strategy; the uncertainties inherent in business and financial planning, including, without limitation, risks related to BD's business and prospects, adverse developments in BD's markets, or adverse developments in the U.S. or global capital markets, credit markets, regulatory environment or economies generally; and competitive developments. A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in BD's reports filed with the SEC, including BD's annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and other documents filed with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. BD does not undertake, and expressly disclaims, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or developments, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. Contacts Media Matt Marcus VP, Public Relations [email protected] Investors Shawn Bevec SVP, Investor Relations [email protected] SOURCE BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) New tool surfaces issues in large datasets and tracks shipments across weeks of updatesno formulas required PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chain.io today announced AI Checks, a shipment monitoring tool that finds problems hiding in large spreadsheets and continues tracking them as data changes over days, weeks, and months. Chain.io Launches AI Checks: Stop Hunting for Problems in Shipment Spreadsheets New tool surfaces issues in large datasets and tracks shipments across weeks of updates-no formulas required The product addresses a persistent challenge in logistics operations: teams receive updated shipment spreadsheets daily with hundreds or thousands of rows but lack an efficient way to find the handful of shipments that need attention. Manual review is time-consuming and error-prone. Formulas work once, then break when columns change. The result: teams miss critical issues until it's too late. "Logistics teams are hunting for needles in haystacks every day," said Brian Glick, CEO of Chain.io. "You get a 500-row spreadsheet, and three shipments have problemsbut which three? Tomorrow, you get an updated file with 520 rows. What changed? What needs attention now? Teams waste hours scrolling and cross-referencing. We built AI Checks to surface those needles automatically and keep tracking them as shipments evolve." AI Checks creates a "shipment inbox" from uploaded spreadsheets. Users write verification rules in plain Englishsuch as "Flag any shipment going to Brazil" or "Verify all HTS codes are valid"and the system automatically applies them. When users upload an updated spreadsheet the next day or next week, AI Checks shows only what changed. Shipments that have been reviewed and archived remain hidden unless new issues surface. The system maintains memory across uploads, tracking individual shipments as they progress through the supply chain. A shipment flagged on Monday might be archived on Tuesday once corrected, then resurface on Friday if new data reveals a problem. This continuous monitoring eliminates the need to manually cross-reference multiple spreadsheet versions. Key capabilities include: Problem surfacing: Automatically finds issues in large datasets without manual hunting Temporal tracking: Monitors shipments across multiple spreadsheet uploads over weeks or months Plain English rules: No formulas or code. Users describe requirements in natural language. Change detection: Only surfaces what changed since the last review, reducing noise from stable data Smart column interpretation: AI maps columns automatically, even when spreadsheet formats vary AI Checks is available now at checks.chain.io. The free plan includes 500 checks per month. Users can explore the product with an interactive demo before uploading their own data. About Chain.io Chain.io connects systems used by supply chain teams, forwarders, agents, and carriers to simplify complex supply chains. With integrations to leading supply chain technology providers, Chain.io makes it easy to automate logistics and gain valuable freight insights, all in one enterprise-grade platform. Learn more at chain.io. Media Contact: Dyana Flanigan Media Relations, Position : Global (312) 213 6233 [email protected] SOURCE Chain.io COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Feb. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dilhan C. Fernando, Chairman of Dilmah Tea explains the danger of 2026 being the toughest year is not only to growers; this sounds dramatic, but the danger is genuinely to humanity. Dilhan C. Fernando_Chairman Dilmah Tea Dilmah Tea Manufacturing - Handpicking Discount culture fuels an accelerating emphasis on cheap produce, forcing growers to become unethical, unsustainable or give up. Discounts blind consumers to true value, the welfare of workers, shifting attention to price, manipulated perception of price, opaque value chains, normalisation of cheapness and ultimately a discount fuelled disconnect from ethics. Even at the cost of their own health. It's a race to the bottom for growers but it continues, growing in pace as it delivers profit to those that drive it; at unimaginable cost, because that race threatens to compromise everything we value and need more now than ever, from biodiversity and fertile soils to food safety and security. Climate change and inequality are amongst the most severe threats to human existence. Solutions to both have been evident for decades, but they come at a cost. They include agricultural innovation, strengthening rural economies, addressing the gender balance, health, welfare, reproductive health, education, nutrition, housing and the host of linked truths that feature in the routine vilification of producers. For growers, there is tragic irony in all this; the world needs good, nutritious and healthy food and beverage, yet we are trapped in a tightening vice of discount driven commodity pricing, making that dream more challenging year on year. More tragic is the knowledge that it's not because the money we need to make agriculture sustainable isn't there, it just goes to the wrong pockets. As growers, our produce is our passion and a livelihood for millions; we cannot compromise either, yet daily we suffer demand for cheaper teas as an unavoidable part of the journey from harvest to consumers. The result is that poor to mediocre teas proliferate by design, finding favour among buyers motivated by profit in preference to quality. Their sales performance is often strong for a while powered as they are by packaging worth more than their contents and marketing funded by compromise. In the long term though, it signals the disintegration of the tea category. The dysfunction is systemic and consumers are unwitting participants. The dangerous reality is harming our precious produce and worse, stimulating some of the greatest risks to humanity climate extremes, worsening inequality, compromised food security, water and air quality. And what of tea producers who don't have that ability at all because they cannot earn a fair price for produce? Neither tea industry nor Sri Lanka can genuinely afford the adaptation we need to make to continue to offer the world the healthy herb. This is the context of our Grower's Story. It echoes in every agricultural sector sustaining an existential threat that begins with tea, but quickly expands to include humanity. Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2L1wKyBLhc Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2888751/Dilhan_C__Fernando_Chairman_Dilmah_Tea_77.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2888752/Tea_Manufacturing___Handpicking___K47A2364___Medium_39.jpg THL is cautioning that gambling-related problems are increasing as Finland prepares for its 2027 licensing reform. To promote safer play, the institute has introduced new risk limits and a "2-4-2" self-assessment rule encouraging players to stay within healthy gambling habits. HELSINKI, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- THL warns problem gambling is rising ahead of 2027 licensing reform; urges Finnish players to adopt new self-assessment framework. The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has launched new gambling risk limits and a self-assessment test designed to help players manage their gambling. This initiative occurs at a time when Finland prepares to open its market to international operators in July 2027. The new "2-4-2" rule recommends players spend no more than 2% of net income on gambling, play no more than 4 days per month, and avoid regularly playing more than 2 game types. The announcement comes as THL warns that gambling advertising and customer acquisition will increase significantly under the new licensing system. This will shift emphasis "from harm prevention towards gambling revenue." THL Research Chief Sari Castren stated: "Gambling involves risks and ultimately the house always wins. 2-4-2 is everyone's credit line for managing their own gambling." Problem Gambling Already Rising THL's intervention addresses a worsening trend. Finland's problem gambling rate has risen from 3% to 4.2% of the adult population (approximately 151,000 people), while 13% of gamblers are now classified as "at-risk," up from 10% in 2019. Young adults aged 18-29 face the highest risk at 6.9%. The 2-4-2 framework is adapted from Canada's internationally recognised Lower-Risk Gambling Guidelines (LRGG), adjusted for the Finnish context following two years of academic research, including quantitative surveys and qualitative focus groups. Why Safe Casino Selection Matters More Than Ever With 30-50 international operators expected to enter Finland's 2.4 billion gambling market from July 2027, players will face a dramatically expanded range of choices. THL's self-assessment test (currently available in Finnish, with Swedish and English versions planned for spring 2026) provides one layer of protection. But choosing casinos that offer robust responsible gambling tools is equally critical. Kasinohai.com, Finland's leading independent casino comparison site, focuses on helping Finnish players find safe and responsible online casinos. They guide players to safe Finnish online casinos (https://www.kasinohai.com/suomalaiset-nettikasinot) reviews operators based on licensing, deposit and session limits, reality checks, self-exclusion tools, and access to support services such as Peluuri (0800 100 101). "THL's 2-4-2 rule gives Finnish players a clear personal framework, but the casino you choose determines what tools are available to enforce those limits," says Antti Virtanen from Kasinohai.com. "As the market expands, we help players identify platforms that genuinely support responsible gamblingnot just those with the biggest welcome bonuses." About Kasinohai.com Kasinohai.com is Finland's leading independent online casino comparison platform, providing transparent reviews of safe, licensed online casinos serving Finnish players with a focus on responsible gambling tools, licensing verification, and player protection. Contact: Antti Virtanen ***@kasinohai.com Photo(s): https://www.prlog.org/13126287 SOURCE Kasinohai News / National by Staff reporter When President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his political cabal, backed by the military, removed the late former president Robert Mugabe in November 2017, the justification was clear: Mugabe had overstayed his welcome. After 37 years in power, Zimbabwe was mired in deep social and economic decay, and the ruling elite argued that the country could no longer afford leadership paralysis.The military intervention euphemistically branded Operation Restore Legacy was carefully framed not as a coup, but as a corrective measure. In a nationally televised address, the late Major General Sibusiso Busi Moyo assured Zimbabweans that the army was merely targeting a clique of "criminals" around the President whose actions were allegedly causing suffering and threatening national stability. Left unchecked, he warned, the situation risked descending into violent conflict.At the heart of the intervention was a power struggle within Zanu-PF. The military high command, dominated by liberation war veterans, accused the so-called G40 faction of hijacking the party, marginalising those with liberation credentials and undermining the revolution. Then army commander Constantino Chiwenga declared that the military was a major "stockholder" in the revolution and would not hesitate to take "corrective measures" to protect it.A central grievance though rarely stated explicitly was the perception that First Lady Grace Mugabe was positioning herself to succeed her husband, exploiting Mugabe's frailty and exercising power without constitutional mandate. Mugabe's prolonged rule, widely seen as a disastrous failure marked by authoritarian repression, economic collapse and mass poverty, had become untenable.Mnangagwa and his faction presented themselves as the antidote. They promised renewal, constitutionalism and respect for presidential term limits. According to Moyo, there was an understanding between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga that the former would serve a single term before handing over power. Chiwenga, confident of succession, supported the transition.That understanding collapsed almost immediately.No sooner had Mnangagwa settled into office than he began consolidating power. His supporters launched an aggressive "Mnangagwa 2023" campaign, signalling his intention to seek a second term. Many assumed that would be the end of the road that after two terms, Mnangagwa would depart.They underestimated him.Mnangagwa did not represent change; he represented continuity. In that sense, he remained Mugabe's most faithful student. Having completed the remainder of Mugabe's term, his second term already meant he would be in power for more than a decade. Yet even that proved insufficient.The old Mugabe syndrome resurfaced: the obsession with staying longer.The pursuit of presidential term extension euphemistically dressed up as "tenure elongation" has since emerged as Mnangagwa's new political project. It is not uniquely Zimbabwean. It is a continental disease that has infected African politics for decades, undermining democratic consolidation and constitutionalism.Across sub-Saharan Africa, presidents have amended, abolished or creatively reinterpreted term limits to entrench themselves in power. Despite widespread public support for two-term limits, incumbents routinely manipulate legal frameworks to prolong their rule often at the cost of stability, institutional credibility and democratic norms.Zimbabwe's tragedy is that the 2017 coup, sold as a reset, merely replaced one overstaying ruler with another in waiting. The promise to end Mugabe's elongated rule was honoured in form, but betrayed in substance. What was interrupted in 2017 was not authoritarianism itself only its occupant.History, it seems, was not overturned. It was postponed. As Bagel Culture grows, the iconic carb invites a new audience to the table LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The bagel is going west. Following years of sold-out success in New York, BagelFest presented by King Arthur Baking Company, is expanding to the West Coast with the launch of BagelFest West. Taking place Sunday, April 12, at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion, in partnership with the Jewish Food Lab of Wilshire Boulevard Temple, the inaugural West Coast edition marks a major milestone for the fast-growing event that has transformed the beloved everyday carb into a cultural and industry phenomenon. Hosted in Koreatown, the culinary epicenter of Los Angeles, BagelFest West is expected to attract 800 to 1,000 attendees and feature 30 exhibitors, uniting bagel artisans, bakers, food entrepreneurs and bagel lovers. The venue's dramatic, multi-level architecture further sets the stage for an unforgettable gathering. BagelFest West Poster "A global bagel boom is underway, and the West Coast has fully arrived," says Sam Silverman. "BagelFest West is to celebrate the artisans who are breaking the outdated idea that world-class bagels can only be made with New York water." The BagelFest West experience will unfold across an entire weekend, beginning with an Industry Mixer on Saturday, April 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., hosted at the landmark Wilshire Boulevard Temple. Designed as an intimate networking evening, the mixer will bring together bagel makers, bakers, shops and industry leaders to break bread, share ideas and make meaningful connections ahead of the main event. On Sunday, BagelFest West will feature two distinct sessions designed to serve both the trade and the public. A morning industry-only session from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. will convene chefs, buyers, and bagel-adjacent brands for focused networking, education and curated tastings. The afternoon public session, running from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., will open the doors to bagel enthusiasts of all ages, offering an immersive celebration of flavor and community with culinary panels and unlimited bagel and schmear sampling throughout the event. Throughout the day, guests will experience a dynamic and interactive program featuring a curated bagel showcase from top shops, themed discussions led by expert bakers and industry voices, live demonstrations, and friendly competitions that highlight excellence across categories, including: Best of the West, Best Bagel, Best Sandwich, Most Creative, Rising Star, and Schmear of the Year. Winning a top BagelFest award has helped propel regional brands into the national culinary spotlight, including PopUp Bagels (Best Bagel winner in 2021 and 2022, now scaling toward 300 locations nationwide) and Starship Bagel (Best Bagel winner in 2023 and 2025, Schmear of the Year in 2024), which has since become a two-time James Beard Award nominee and been featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri." Attendees will have the opportunity to participate directly by voting alongside a distinguished panel of judges that includes James Beard Award winners, Michelin-starred chefs, restaurant owners and cookbook authors. A dedicated kids' section will offer hands-on, creative activities throughout the afternoon, including make-your-own aprons, bagel themed coloring stations, and chef hat decorating, ensuring younger guests are actively engaged while families explore the festival together. Toby L. Neiman, Associate Executive Director and Head of Strategic Programming, Wilshire Boulevard Temple, says, "BagelFest West aligns beautifully with the Jewish Food Lab's mission to use food as a gateway to culture and connection. By welcoming families into the experience, the festival turns culinary exploration into a multigenerational conversation." BagelFest West is produced by BagelUp, the experiential food company founded by Sam Silverman, New York's Bagel Ambassador. What began in 2019 as a small gathering of 300 bagel enthusiasts in Bushwick has grown into the premier trade and consumer event for the bagel industry, helping bagel brands gain national recognition, funding, and expansion opportunities. In addition to the festival, BagelUp produces year-round bagel-centric experiences including hands-on bagel baking classes and curated bagel tours. "King Arthur Baking is excited to follow BagelFest West as the presenting sponsor for the inaugural west coast edition, celebrating bagels, bagel makers, and fans of the iconic bread," says Jeff Yankellow, Director of Bakery Food Service, King Arthur Baking. "Our participation aligns with our vision to bring people together, inspire, and share the joy of baking to build stronger communities. There's no better example of this happening than at local bagel shops in communities around the country and world." BagelFest West invites Los Angeles to experience the ultimate celebration of bagel culture, where craftsmanship and community converge. Tickets start at $65 and are available at https://www.bagelfest.com/tickets. Use code EARLYBAGEL for 18% off, while supplies last. All-Access Tickets are available for $199, which includes on-site parking. For press inquiries, contact Pietra Communications by email at [email protected] or by phone at 212-913-9761. About BagelFest BagelFest celebrates bagels and the artisans behind them. Sample signature bites and schmears from the best bagel bakers in the world, meet the makers, and experience bagel culture like never before with hands-on programming, one-of-a-kind competitions, and family-friendly activities for all ages. BagelFest is produced by BagelUp. About King Arthur Baking Company King Arthur Baking Company has been dedicated to spreading the joy of baking since its beginning in 1790. Proudly certified as a B Corp and 100% employee-owned, King Arthur stands as the premier baking resource for both home bakers and professionals. Committed to excellence and innovation, King Arthur delivers unparalleled quality flour and technical support to bakery, foodservice, pizzeria, and culinary customers, ensuring impeccable results with every bake. Explore products, support, and resources tailored to bakery and foodservice customers at KingArthurBaking.com/pro. About The Jewish Food Lab The Jewish Food Lab at Wilshire Boulevard Temple is dedicated to celebrating the tastes and traditions of global Jewish food and culture. Grounded in the richness of Jewish experience and history, the Jewish Food Lab strives to create educational and experiential opportunities for all the senses. The initiative serves as a cornerstone of community outreach and cultural programming at Wilshire Boulevard Temple and throughout Los Angeles. SOURCE BagelUp The FPT Corporation, the Viet Thai Group, and G42 sign Framework Agreement to advance Vietnam's digital transformation Partnership backed by $1 billion commitment to deploy AI and cloud infrastructure with full data sovereignty HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- G42, the Abu Dhabi-based technology holding group, and a consortium comprising the FPT Corporation and the Viet Thai Group, have signed a Framework Cooperation Agreement to develop sovereign AI capabilities and cloud infrastructure across Vietnam. The initiative aims to support Vietnam's ambition to become an AI-native society and a leading AI hub in Southeast Asia, while ensuring national data sovereignty and digital resilience. Names (Left to Right) 1. David Thai, Founder and CEO, Viet Thai Group 2. His Excellency Badr Al Matrooshi, Ambassador of the UAE to Vietnam 3. Ali Al Amine, Chief Commercial Officer, G42 International 4. Dr. Truong Gia Binh, Chairman, FPT Corporation 5. Nguyen Van Duoc, Chairman, Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee 6. His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, CEO, G42 International 7. Nguyen Manh Cuong, Vice Chairman, Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee 8. Tu Vu Anh, CTO, FPT Corporation G42 The agreement, signed in Ho Chi Minh City, formalizes a comprehensive partnership and establishes the legal, financial, and regulatory framework required to advance deployment across the country. The partners commend the Government of Vietnam for its forward-thinking approach in advancing regulatory frameworks that enable hyperscale data center deployment and public cloud adoption, positioning Vietnam as a regional leader in AI infrastructure development. Backed by consumption commitments of up to $1 billion, the partnership represents a significant milestone in Vietnam's and the region's digital transformation journey. The consortium and G42 bring together complementary strengths essential for national-scale deployment. The FPT Corporation, Vietnam's largest information technology services company with operations across 30+ countries, provides deep technical expertise and local market knowledge. The Viet Thai Group, a leading consumer-focused group with portfolio companies spanning coffee, foodservice, retail, and logistics, contributes strategic capabilities and cross-sector insights. G42, the Abu Dhabi-based artificial intelligence holding group, brings advanced AI infrastructure capabilities. Under the agreement, the consortium and G42 will deploy significant cloud capacity across three data center locations in Vietnam, delivering high-performance AI and cloud services to support public and private sector workloads. The initiative aligns with G42's broader mission to build a global and inclusive Intelligence Grid, interconnecting advanced AI infrastructure, cloud platforms, and governance frameworks to enable AI capabilities on demand, while respecting national sovereignty. Through this infrastructure, Vietnam will gain the technical foundation to develop national AI initiatives across both public and private sectors, digitizing services and deploying AI-powered solutions tailored to national priorities. "This Framework Agreement represents a new model for national AI transformation one built on sovereignty, partnership, and purpose," said Ali Al Amine, Chief Commercial Officer, G42 International. "We are grateful to the Government of Vietnam for their visionary leadership and to our partners, the FPT Corporation and the Viet Thai Group for their commitment to building infrastructure that enables Vietnam to harness AI's full potential while maintaining data sovereignty and digital independence." "Vietnam clearly understands that it cannot move forward alone. In areas such as semiconductors, AI, cloud computing, big data, and cybersecurity, we need strategic alliances with partners we can rely on and trust. The leaders have shown strong commitment, built mutual trust, and now it is time to turn those commitments into real implementation," said Dr. Truong Gia Binh, Chairman, FPT Corporation. "This initiative positions Vietnam at the forefront of AI-driven economic development in Asia, supporting economic development and the growth of the middle class in Vietnam. Our partnership with G42 and FPT creates the infrastructure foundation for long-term growth and innovation across multiple sectors," said David Thai, Chairman & CEO, Viet Thai Group. Beyond infrastructure development, the partnership includes plans for national AI skilling and workforce development programs designed to support AI adoption across government, industry, and academia. Following the signing of the Framework Agreement, the consortium and G42 will advance to the next phase of execution, including finalizing workload distribution between public and private sectors, securing regulatory approvals for public cloud adoption, and commencing site development for data center infrastructure. The initiative is expected to generate significant economic impact through direct infrastructure investment, job creation, and positioning Vietnam as a strategic technology hub for the region. About G42 G42 is a technology holding group and a global leader in creating visionary artificial intelligence for a better tomorrow. Born in Abu Dhabi and operating worldwide, G42 champions AI as a powerful force for good across industries. From molecular biology to space exploration and everything in between, G42 realizes exponential possibilities today. To know more, visit www.g42.ai. About the FPT Corporation FPT is a global technology conglomerate headquartered in Vietnam, providing services across information technology, telecommunications, and digital transformation. By the end of 2025, FPT recorded consolidated revenue of VND 70,113 billion and profit before tax of VND 13,039 billion, representing year-on-year increases of 11.6% and 17.8%, respectively, closely aligning with the profit targets set at the beginning of the year. The Technology sectorincluding domestic IT services and global IT servicescontinued to play a pivotal role, contributing 63% of total revenue and 45% of profit before tax for the Group. FPT's two AI Factories, located in Japan and Vietnam, ranked 36th and 38th respectively in the Top 500 High Performance Computing systems announced in June 2025. This milestone represents a strategic advancement, reinforcing Vietnam's technological capabilities and FPT's position on the global AI landscape. About the Viet Thai Group Founded in 1998, Viet Thai International JSC (VTI) is one of Vietnam's largest consumer and retail operators. The company operates a diverse portfolio of brands in coffee, F&B and FMCG. Our Highlands Coffee Brand is a national champion in Vietnam and global leader in the Vietnamese Specialty Coffee category, and recognized as one of the strongest consumer brands in Vietnam and regionally. Our business comprises over 2,000+ retail outlets operating in 30 countries. VTI has been instrumental in the development of the modern retail industry in Vietnam and is a leading advocate and 'Flag Carrier' in bringing the best of Vietnamese culture, beverages, and cuisine to the world. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2889496/G42_and_Vietnamese_Consortium_Commit_to_Build_National_AI_Infrastructure_and_Develop_Southeast_Asia.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2158819/G42.jpg Arrival in new markets along with the debut of an outlet concept reinforce the company's rapid growth and strong Midwest commitment. DETROIT, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Gardner White, Michigan's #1 furniture and mattress retailer, today announced a significant step in its growth with the addition of nine new store locations. The expansion also introduces Gardner White's first outlet location, further diversifying the company's brand portfolio. This increases Gardner White's store count to 30, expanding its footprint into western and northern Michigan communities including Grand Rapids, Lansing and Traverse City, while establishing a presence in the greater Toledo area. The growth underscores the company's focus on extending access to its brand, formats, and value-driven offerings in high-demand Midwest markets. Store openings will begin rolling out this spring, with individual grand opening announcements forthcoming. "For more than a century, Gardner White has grown alongside the communities we serve," said Rachel Stewart, CEO of Gardner White. "These new store locations allow us to reach more families and bring our style, value, award-winning service, and signature same-day delivery to even more homes. This expansion reflects our belief in our state and region's long-term economic strength." Gardner White is committed to investing in people, places, and partnerships and is deeply dedicated to supporting local communities while driving sustainable, long-term growth. New store locations include: 8748 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing, MI 48917 (109,297 sq. ft.) 27775 Novi Road, Novi, MI 48377 (102,600 sq. ft.) 1301 E. Mall Drive, Holland, Ohio 43528 (91,381 sq. ft.) 4375 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49512 (79,742 sq. ft.) 50400 Gratiot Ave, Chesterfield, MI 48051 (73,151 sq. ft.) 33801 S. Gratiot Ave, Clinton Township, MI 48035 (69,260 sq. ft.) 1775 Oak Hollow Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686 (63,400 sq. ft.) 4577 Miller Road, Flint, MI 48507 (56,578 sq. ft.) 550 Ring Road, Portage, Michigan 49024 (50,686 sq. ft.) With the addition of a new store location in Novi, Gardner White's current Novi location at 43825 W Oaks Drive, will become the future home of Gardner White's new outlet concepta dedicated destination for everyday value with regularly refreshed inventory including floor samples from well-known brands. Gardner White has been on a strong and steady growth trajectory, including the January 2026 opening of another standalone Gardner White Mattress store in Woodhaven. In 2025, the company expanded its retail footprint with seven new brick-and-mortar locations around the state, including the debut of its innovative new brand concept, GW HOME, in the heart of Detroit, reinforcing its commitment to growth, innovation, and community investment. Gardner White is the only furniture and mattress retailer in the state to offer both same-day and nighttime deliverydesigned to meet the needs of today's busy families. Offering everything from designer brands to budget-friendly options, Gardner White delivers style, comfort and value at every price point. For more information, visit www.gardner-white.com . About Gardner White Family-owned and operated for 113 years across four generations, Gardner White is Michigan's #1 furniture and mattress retailer with 30 stores around the state and parent company to GW HOME. Headquartered in Warren, Michigan, Gardner White is rooted in providing customers quality products, great value and innovative services, and is deeply dedicated to the communities they serve. Gardner White is the presenting sponsor of America's Thanksgiving Parade and was recently named Top 100 Retailer in the United States, and Best Places to Work by Furniture Today and Crain's Detroit Business. For more information, visit www.gardner-white.com and follow us on Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , YouTube and X . SOURCE Gardner White Furniture & Mattress NORTHBROOK, Ill., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hilco Global real estate group announces the Chapter 11 bankruptcy sale of Carrollton Gateway, an 11.2 acre, mixed-use land assemblage located at 2441 North Broadway Street in Carrollton, Texas. Positioned along one of North Dallas' most heavily traveled transportation corridors, the property offers exceptional freeway frontage, visibility and access, making it a premier redevelopment opportunity in one of the DallasFort Worth (DFW) Metroplex's most dynamic growth markets. Recently acquired and court approved for immediate sale, Carrollton Gateway is strategically positioned in the center of the DFW metroplex as a four-tract, master-planned development designed to accommodate a diverse mix of hospitality, residential, office and retail uses. The proposed configuration includes: Tract 1, a 1.5 AC site planned for a six-story minimum, 12-story maximum hospitality and/or office development; Tract 2, a 3.9 AC site planned for a six-story residential development with ground-floor retail; Tract 3, a 2.6 AC site allowing a six-story minimum and up to a 20-story maximum hospitality and/or office development; and Tract 4, a 3.2 AC site allowing a minimum of six-story and up to a 20-story maximum residential, hospitality and/or office development. The property benefits from dual zoning within the Trinity Mills Transit Center (TMTC) and Freeway (FWY) designations, allowing a wide range of high-density, transit-oriented uses while minimizing entitlement risk. Immediate access to Interstate 35 East, combined with proximity to the Trinity Mills DART Rail Station, provides seamless connectivity to major employment centers throughout Carrollton, Addison, Plano, Las Colinas and Downtown Dallas. The diverse employment base and central North Dallas location of Carrollton Gateway offer developers and investors the scale, flexibility and visibility necessary to execute a landmark, mixed-use project. The site may be acquired as a single assemblage or on a tract-by-tract basis, allowing for phased development strategies. The DFW Metroplex continues to rank among the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, adding hundreds of thousands of new residents over the past several years and consistently leading the nation in net population and job growth. Home to one of the largest concentrations of Fortune 500 headquarters and supported by a diverse economy spanning technology, finance, logistics, healthcare and manufacturing, the region has experienced sustained demand across housing, retail, office, hospitality and transit-oriented development (TOD). Within this high-growth environment, the new Trinity Mills Station has emerged as a compelling hub of connectivity and redevelopment, anchored by multiple DART rail stations and the Trinity Mills Transit Center, which link the community to major employment nodes across North Dallas and beyond. As DFW's economy continues to expand and attract both corporate relocations and population inflows, development opportunities such as Carrollton Gateway are well positioned to capture long-term demand for urban infill, mixed-use and higher-density projects in one of the state's most sought-after growth markets. Benjamin Zaslav, J.D., director at Hilco Global, stated, "In this bankruptcy sale, where certainty of execution is paramount, Carrollton Gateway offers a rare combination of ready and clear development parameters, flexible zoning and institutional-scale density. This asset allows qualified buyers to move decisively while capitalizing on a high-profile North Dallas location with long-term upside." Stephen Madura, senior director at Hilco Global, added, "Carrollton Gateway offers a level of scale, density and visibility that is exceptionally difficult to replicate in North Dallas. With multiple zoning and entitlements, transit access and the ability to develop up to 20 stories, this site provides developers with rare flexibility to execute a truly transformative mixed-use project along the I-35E corridor." The sale has been approved by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Texas, Dallas Division, Petition No. 24-33585-sgj11. Bids must be received on or before the deadline of February 26, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. (CT) and must be submitted on the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA) document available for review and download from Hilco Real Estate Sale's website. Interested bidders should reach out directly for requirements to participate in the sale process. For further information, please contact Stephen Madura at (847) 504-2478 or [email protected] and Michael Kneifel at (847) 201-2322 or [email protected]. To obtain access to due diligence documents, please visit HilcoRealEstateSales.com or call (855) 755-2300. About Hilco Global Hilco Global, a subsidiary of ORIX Corporation USA, is a diversified financial services company that delivers integrated professional services and capital solutions that help clients maximize value and drive performance across the retail, commercial and industrial, real estate, manufacturing, brand and intellectual property sectors and more. Hilco Global provides a range of customized solutions to healthy, stressed and distressed companies to resolve complex situations and enhance long-term enterprise value. Hilco Global works to deliver the best possible result by aligning interests with clients and providing strategic advice and, in many instances, the capital required to complete the deal. Hilco Global is based in Northbrook, Illinois and has more than 810 professionals operating on four continents. Visit www.hilcoglobal.com. SOURCE Hilco Trading, LLC Microsoft customers worldwide can now discover and deploy CAEVES Intelligent Deep Storage through Microsoft Marketplace, accessing trusted solutions that accelerate innovation and business transformation with unified integration across Microsoft products NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CAEVES Technology, Inc. today announced the availability of CAEVES Intelligent Deep Storage in the Microsoft Marketplace, the unified online destination for customers to buy trusted cloud solutions, AI apps, and agents to meet their business needs. CAEVES customers can now discover and deploy trusted solutions through Microsoft Marketplace, with smooth integration and streamlined management across Microsoft Azure and other Microsoft products. CAEVES Intelligent Deep Storage is a software-defined deep storage solution designed to help enterprises modernize archive and unstructured data within their own Microsoft Azure environments. The solution enables policy-driven data tiering to Azure object storage while maintaining secure, transparent access for enterprise workloads, compliance requirements, and AI-enabled discovery. Through integration with Microsoft 365 search and Microsoft 365 Copilot , organizations can securely extend historical data into modern search and AI workflows while maintaining existing identity, security, and governance controls. "Availability in Microsoft Marketplace marks an important milestone for CAEVES and our customers," said Jaap van Duijvenbode, Head of Products & Customer Experience at CAEVES Technology, Inc. "Organizations are looking for practical ways to reduce archive storage costs while making more data accessible for search, analytics, and AI. CAEVES delivers a solution that works natively within Microsoft Azure and extends archive data into Microsoft 365 search and Copilot without disrupting existing operations." "Microsoft Marketplace helps organizations and partners move faster, work smarter, and grow by connecting them with the right solutions all in one trusted place," said Cyril Belikoff, vice president, Microsoft Azure Product Marketing. "We're pleased to welcome CAEVES Intelligent Deep Storage to the growing Microsoft Marketplace ecosystem, making it easier for customers to discover and deploy solutions that work seamlessly with Microsoft products." Microsoft Marketplace is a single destination to find, try, and buy trusted cloud solutions, AI apps, and agents to meet business objectives. Choose from a growing collection of solutions tailored to your unique needs, available both in the marketplace and directly within Microsoft products. Learn more about CAEVES Intelligent Deep Storage at its page on Microsoft Marketplace. About CAEVES Technology, Inc. CAEVES Technology, Inc. provides Intelligent Deep Storage software that helps enterprises modernize archive and unstructured data for cloud, search, and AI use cases. Deployed within customer-controlled environments, CAEVES enables cost-efficient long-term storage while securely extending data access across Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 services. CAEVES serves organizations across regulated and data-intensive industries worldwide. Press Contact (CAEVES only): CAEVES Technology, Inc. Andrew W. Mullen [email protected] www.caeves.com SOURCE CAEVES Technology The Award-Winning, Ready-to-Drink Cocktail Brand Marks the Milestone Making Its Chicago Debut Across Binny's Beverage Depot Locations ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mission Craft Cocktails - the award-winning line of bar-strength, 375 mL ready-to-drink cocktails crafted with locally-sourced Southern California ingredients and premium spirits announces a major milestone in its purpose-driven mission: it has funded one million meals to families experiencing hunger through its one bottle = one meal program, via its partnership with Feeding America . Mission Craft Cocktails One Bottle = One Meal Program Recently recognized as the Leadership Award winner in the BevNet 2025 Spirit Awards and with the Community Action Award from The Tasting Alliance at the San Francisco Wine & Spirits Competition 2025, Founders Amit Singh and Marcin Malyszko have captivated discerning industry audiences and cocktail-loving consumers alike with a brand that is at once delicious, wallet-friendly, and mission-led. "Our vision for Mission Craft Cocktails has been crystal clear since day one - we wanted to create a perpetual giving machine in the fight against food insecurity. Our dedication to helping put food on the table is part of our brand's DNA," says Singh and Malyszko. "The fact that we reached the one million meal milestone in less than three years, while becoming one of the fastest growing ready-to-drink craft cocktail brands in our home state of California and reaching national distribution through our partnership with Total Wine & More has us both deeply humbled and energized." Marking this milestone, Mission Craft Cocktails is offering even more ways to pour it forward with the brand's entree into the windy city across select Binny's Beverage Depot . Chicago family-owned since 1948, Binny's Beverage Depot is the Midwest's largest wine, spirits, and beer superstore boasting 46 locations across Illinois and beloved for its curated collections and knowledgeable staff. "As someone who was born and raised in Chicago and who lived in the region for more than 20 years, launching Mission Craft Cocktails at Binny's Beverage Depot feels like a homecoming for me," says Co-Founder Marcin Malyszko. "We look forward to the opportunity for Chicagoans to discover our bar-strength, ready-to-drink craft cocktails at Binny's and help support our mission-driven cause." In addition to its new Chicago locations, Mission Craft Cocktails can be found at leading retailers nationwide including Total Wine & More and in California at Costco, Ralphs, Wholefoods, BevMo!, Gelsons, Bristol Farms, Albertsons, VONS, Pavilions, Northgate, Cardenas, Raleys, and more. Learn more about Mission Craft Cocktails by visiting: https://missioncocktails.com About Mission Craft Cocktails Mission Craft Cocktails' Founders Amit Singh and Marcin Malyszko are Keeping it Real with award-winning, bar strength 20-40% abv, ready-to-drink cocktails made from locally-sourced SoCal ingredients except spiritsand delivering real impact: 1,000,000+ meals funded through their one bottle = one meal program via its partnership with Feeding America. From the Jalapeno Pineapple Margarita and traditional Margs to Espresso Martini, Cosmopolitan to Manhattan and Old Fashioned (even a killer Mai Tai), Mission Craft Cocktails are bottled and ready to pour. Because sometimes you need a cocktail, nowno bar tools, no $25 price tag, all good. About Feeding America Feeding America is committed to an America where no one is hungry. We support tens of millions of people who experience food insecurity to get the food and resources they say they need to thrive as part of a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs. We also invest in innovative solutions to increase equitable access to nutritious food, advocate for legislation that improves food security and work to address factors that impact food security, such as health, cost of living and employment. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters, united with them in a movement to end hunger. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more. Media Contact: P-22 Agency E: [email protected] SOURCE Mission Craft Cocktails CONWAY, Ark., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of Christian Lawmakers (NACL) today announced the adoption of two key pieces of model legislation out of its Executive Committee, the Hospital Price Transparency Act and the Hospital Community Benefit and Charity Care Requirements Act, advancing a conservative, commonsense agenda to help bring transparency to the healthcare system and hold bad actors in the healthcare industry accountable. The measures reflect the group's commitment to empowering patients, safeguarding taxpayers, and restoring accountability in a healthcare system increasingly dominated by opaque pricing, unchecked consolidation, and government-distorting incentives. "As Americans face soaring healthcare costs, legislators must address the root cause of the issue," said Senator Jason Rapert, Founder and President of the NACL. "These bills take meaningful steps to expose the practices of some hospitals and push back against a system that too often rewards special interests instead of patients." The Hospital Price Transparency Act advances transparency by requiring clearer disclosure of pricing and financial practices across the hospital marketplace. By increasing access to reliable information, the legislation aims to encourage competition, support consumer choice, and allow patients and employers to make informed decisions. The Hospital Community Benefit and Charity Care Requirements Act strengthens accountability by requiring nonprofit hospitals to meet minimum charity care requirements. It reinforces oversight tools to ensure that hospitals are held responsible when their actions contribute to wasteful spending and higher premiums for families and taxpayers. "Healthcare costs continue to rise in part because large hospital systems, including some nonprofit hospitals, operate with limited transparency while benefiting from tax-exempt status," said Representative Tom Oliverson (R-TX). "I am proud to sponsor two model bills that advance commonsense solutions to protect patients and taxpayers and help rein in rising healthcare costs." The Executive Committee's action signals continued momentum behind healthcare reforms that prioritize fiscal discipline, market competition, and patient-centered care. This issue has been championed by Consumer Action for a Strong Economy (CASE), among other advocacy groups, pushing back on the extortionate practices of hospital systems. "Hospitals should be a place where people get well, but the sad reality today is that hospitals have become more focused on boosting profits on the backs of patients, with rapidly rising costs that are devastating families and breaking the back of our healthcare system," said CASE chairman Gerard Scimeca. "We are grateful to the National Association of Christian Lawmakers for passing these two model bills aimed at holding hospitals accountable for driving up the cost of healthcare, affecting patients, consumers, and taxpayers across the country. It is our sincerest hope these bills are given thoughtful consideration by the states taking up this issue so they may provide much needed relief to their constituents." About the National Association of Christian Lawmakers: The National Association of Christian Lawmakers (NACL) is dedicated to uniting federal, state, and local lawmakers in support of clear biblical principles. Through regular meetings, NACL members discuss crucial issues and propose model statutes, ordinances, and resolutions that address major policy concerns from a biblical worldview. Since its inception in 2020, the NACL has members and supporters across around the world and in all 50 states. As the first formal national association of Christian lawmakers in American history, NACL remains committed to its mission. For more information, please visit: https://christianlawmakers.com SOURCE National Association of Christian Lawmakers The California Pizza Kitchen Story: How Two Federal Prosecutors Changed the Way America Eats Pizza BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans of bold flavors and culinary history will soon get their first look at a new book that tells the definitive story of one of America's most iconic casual dining brands. The California Pizza Kitchen Story: How Two Federal Prosecutors Changed the Way America Eats Pizza (Amplify Publishing), with a foreword by #1 New York Times bestselling author Jack Carr, recounts how two former federal prosecutors transformed a single restaurant into a nationwide phenomenon that reshaped the pizza landscape. The California Pizza Kitchen Story: How Two Federal Prosecutors Changed the Way America Eats Pizza traces the unlikely rise of one of Americas most influential restaurant brands. Featuring a foreword by #1 New York Times bestselling author Jack Carr, the book is now available for pre-order. Written by Rick Rosenfield, co-founder of California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), the book blends personal memoir with business history, charting the unlikely rise of a brand that introduced the world to inventive pizzasmost famously Barbecue Chicken Pizzawhile pioneering what would become known as California-style pizza. From the first location on Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills, CA to millions of pizzas sold across the country, this narrative offers both behind-the-scenes insight and fresh perspective on a culinary legacy that's become a favorite in homes and restaurants alike. "This isn't just about pizzait's about creativity, risk-taking, and the joy of sharing something unexpected with the world," says Rosenfield. "We never set out to change an industry. We just wanted to make great food that brought people together." This new book pulls back the curtain on the pivotal decisions, early missteps, and creative risks that shaped California Pizza Kitchen's rise, offering readers an inside look at how an unconventional idea became a lasting brandand how innovation, timing, and instinct mattered as much as any business plan. With the first announcement of the book timed to coincide with National Pizza Day (February 9), the release underscores pizza's enduring place in American culture while spotlighting the creative leap that helped redefine the category. The book traces how an unexpected ideatreating pizza as a canvas rather than a traditionsparked a broader shift toward innovation that continues to influence menus and dining culture today. The California Pizza Kitchen Story: How Two Federal Prosecutors Changed the Way America Eats Pizza will be published on July 21, 2026, and is currently available for pre-order on Amazon. Additional details, including forthcoming events celebrating the release, will be shared in the coming weeks. About the Author Rick Rosenfield is the co-founder of California Pizza Kitchen, the restaurant brand launched in Beverly Hills in 1985 that popularized inventive California-style pizzas and brought creative flavors to mainstream dining. A former federal prosecutor, Rosenfield has spent decades contributing to the restaurant industry and sharing the story of CPK's founding and growth. Media Contact: Marissa Eigenbrood President & Partner Smith Publicity, Inc. [email protected] SOURCE SMITH PUBLICITY INC In the news release, Nordstrom Celebrates 125 Years of Style and Service, issued 09-Feb-2026 by Nordstrom, Inc. over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end: Nordstrom Celebrates 125 Years of Style and Service Nordstrom kicks off its milestone year with a celebration of its customers, brand partners, and employees SEATTLE, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2026, Nordstrom proudly celebrates its 125th anniversary an extraordinary milestone that honors a rich heritage while setting the stage for an exciting new chapter. For more than a century, Nordstrom has helped customers feel good and look their best through fashion they love and service they trust. The company has built a lasting legacy of style, a culture of service, strong brand partnerships, and a commitment to innovation and evolving with its customers. Celebrating Brand Partners with Exclusive Products and Events Nordstrom is proud to partner with many of the world's most influential and inspiring brands, and this year, those partners will help bring the celebration to life. To mark Nordstrom's 125th anniversary, the company will launch a yearlong series of standout brand activations designed to surprise, delight, and engage customers. Nordstrom will have something new to discover and celebrate every month. Customers can look forward to exclusive product launches, engaging events with notable brand founders, and unique experiences from iconic partners such as Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Brunello Cucinelli, Manolo Blahnik, and Tory Burch. The excitement continues all year with collaborations from leading brands including Ugg, Birkenstock, Nike, Adidas, On, and many more. Later in the year, Nordstrom will debut a limited-edition brand capsule featuring memorabilia inspired by designs and logos from Nordstrom's past. The collection will include tote bags, charms, sweatshirts, and more bringing a mix of nostalgia and modern appeal to customers. Limited edition items featuring archival designs by artist and longtime Nordstrom collaborator, Ruben Toledo will also be unveiled as part of the collection. Thanking Loyal Customers Nordstrom customers have always been at the heart of the business, making this 125th anniversary a meaningful opportunity to say thank you. From cardmembers who have been with Nordstrom since the 1950's to customers joining the Nordy Club for the first time, the company remains committed to celebrating every shopper, at every stage of their journey. Loyal customers can expect even more perks this year, including exclusive giveaways, limited-edition items, invitations to curated experiences, and personalized surprises to make the milestone truly memorable. Nordstrom's iconic Anniversary Sale will deliver even more excitement to customers this year, with new brands joining the sale for the first time, early shopping for cardmembers, and the biggest Anniversary catalog yet 125 pages of new fall fashion at exceptional value. Customers can also look forward to sweepstakes, wish list giveaways, and additional surprises and treats, including $1.25 coffee at all Nordstrom restaurants and cafes throughout the Anniversary Sale event. Nordstrom Rack will also join in on the celebration with special loyalty offers and a curated list of 125 standout deals in September, giving customers even more ways to score great brands at great prices. Spotlighting the People Who Make Nordstrom, Nordstrom Throughout its anniversary year, Nordstrom will shine a spotlight on the people who bring its service driven ethos to life every day. Team members will be celebrated through meaningful recognition moments, and storytelling that honors the impact they make for their customers and communities. Grounded in its longstanding commitment to community, Nordstrom will introduce new social impact initiatives that empower employees to give back to the causes they care about most. Nordstrom will highlight inspiring stories from its archives alongside new narratives that showcase the passion, creativity, and dedication of its teams and how they strive to elevate the customer experience, 125 years and counting. 125 Years A Big Moment and a Big Celebration The 125th anniversary celebration officially kicks off during fashion week, with special events in New York City and Paris to toast the milestone and thank Nordstrom's valued industry and brand partners. Later in the year, the company will launch a marketing campaign highlighting customer stories across TV and social channels, and in the company's hometown of Seattle, Nordstrom will partner with local institution MOHAI (Museum of History & Industry) to open a retrospective this summer. This milestone is about more than reflecting on the pastit's about celebrating what comes next. Nordstrom is proud to honor the customers, brand partners, and employees, who make everything possible. After 125 years, the best is still ahead. To learn more about Nordstrom's 125th Anniversary Celebration, please visit Nordstrom Celebrating 125 Years or listen to episode 103 of The Nordy Pod. ABOUT NORDSTROM At Nordstrom, we exist to help our customers feel good and look their best. Since starting as a shoe store in 1901, how to best serve customers has been at the center of every decision we make. This heritage of service is the foundation we're building on as we provide convenience and true connection for our customers. Our interconnected model enables us to serve customers when, where and how they want to shop whether that's in-store at more than 350 Nordstrom, Nordstrom Local and Nordstrom Rack locations or digitally through our Nordstrom and Rack apps and websites. Through it all, we remain committed to leaving the world better than we found it. For media inquiries, contact: Julie Ly Director of Public Relations, Nordstrom [email protected] Correction: There have been updates throughout the release. SOURCE Nordstrom, Inc. This event marks an important milestone in the continuation of the Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek project. FREDERICK, Md., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Plamondon Hospitality Partners celebrates the next milestone of the Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek project, the highly-anticipated full-service hotel and conference center, with a groundbreaking ceremony. This project's unique, four-way investment partnership combines public and private parties, and is poised to support the increasing demand of Frederick's tourism economy. With public investment covering 26% of the total project cost, the State of Maryland's $23 million investment reflects a broader statewide strategy to strengthen regional economies. At the local level, Frederick County and the City of Frederick's combined $4.5 million investment demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring the project delivers long-term economic returns for residents and businesses. Together, this coordinated partnership with private investors is a commitment to Frederick and the state's overall economic competitiveness. Present for the groundbreaking event was Governor Wes Moore, who has recognized the hotel project as a promising economic driver for Downtown Frederick and the state alike. "For a long time, this site has been a promise waiting to become a place, but today, we are finally there," said Moore. "This groundbreaking represents our commitment to choosing alignment, urgency, and the will to compete. By partnering to build this first-class hotel and conference space, we are making a clear investment in the future of Frederick, and our entire state." "This groundbreaking reflects the best of Frederick Countypublic-private partnership, thoughtful planning, and a shared vision for a thriving downtown," said County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. "This investment, a result of the partnership between Marriott, Plamondon Hospitality Partners, and county, city and state leaders, will deliver a first-class hotel and conference space that meets the needs of our community and employers. The hotel and conference center will strengthen our ability to host regional events, showcase our arts and dining, and help our economy thrive year-round." Located along the scenic Carroll Creek Linear Park in Downtown Frederick, this full-service Marriott flagship property will feature 204 guest rooms and over 21,000 square feet of dedicated indoor and outdoor meeting space, offering business travelers state-of-the-art conference facilities within walking distance of the city's many restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. "The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development believes in building great placesplaces that inspire pride, enhance community character and unlock possibility," said Secretary of Housing and Community Development Jake Day. "Frederick's new hotel and conference center will be one of those places, augmenting the strong revitalization work that's already happening downtown, bringing more visitors and charging the city's economic engine." The Marriott Downtown Frederick at Carroll Creek will stand alone as the only hotel and event facility in Frederick City and County capable of hosting large-scale conferences, business summits, and major events under one roof. This comes with significant projected economic impacts, including $25.8 million in direct, indirect, and induced spending annually, along with an estimated $1.5 million in incremental Maryland state taxes and nearly $1 million in local property taxes each year. Additionally, the hotel and conference center is expected to create an estimated 200 total direct, indirect, and induced jobs, and serve as a catalyst for over $100 million in follow-on development in Downtown Frederick. "Frederick is ready and well-positioned to be one of the next drivers of Maryland's economy," said Frederick Mayor Michael O'Connor. "Economic growth driven by projects like the downtown hotel and conference center will be critical to expanding opportunity through job creation, stronger tourism, and the kind of follow-on investment that helps entire regions prosper." Plamondon Hospitality Partners is leading the development and future management of the hotel, proudly collaborating with stakeholders at the state, county, and city levels. The State of Maryland, Frederick County, and the City of Frederick have been invaluable partners throughout the project and will remain actively involved in future development phases. Construction and design partners include DAVIS Construction, FILLAT+ Architecture, Looney & Associates, and PDSI. Additionally, the Atlas Restaurant Group will play an integral role in conceptualizing and executing the vision for the hotel and conference center's dining venues. Peter Plamondon, Jr., Co-President of Plamondon Hospitality Partners, said, "Having operated in Frederick for nearly 30 years, Plamondon Hospitality Partners has always been committed to the community's success, and this project milestone is a physical representation of our continued dedication to supporting the City of Frederick's vision for strategic growth, new jobs, and exciting economic opportunities to come." As construction commences in Downtown Frederick, Plamondon Hospitality Partners is working closely with The City of Frederick and local residents to ensure a smooth transition toward the project's successful completion in 2027. The City will release any community notices that will outline relevant details that impact the surrounding area such as sidewalk or road closures. About Plamondon Hospitality Partners Plamondon Hospitality Partners is a family-owned hotel management and development company headquartered in Frederick, Maryland. With a growing portfolio of award-winning hotels across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, the company is recognized for its commitment to community, employee development, and high-quality guest experiences. For more information, visit www.plamondonhospitalitypartners.com and https://www.downtownhotelatcarrollcreek.com/ SOURCE Plamondon Hospitality Partners News / National by Staff reporter The trial of Alpha Media Holdings senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga and HStv general manager Olga Muteiwa has been postponed to March 911 after the State told the court that the presiding magistrate was unavailable.The case, which has been delayed several times since last year, has previously been postponed due to the absence of either State witnesses or the magistrate. In October last year, prosecutors indicated that investigations had been completed and that they were ready to proceed, but the trial has yet to commence.Mhlanga and Muteiwa are facing charges of transmitting messages allegedly intended to incite public violence.The matter was initially presided over by Harare magistrate Sheunesu Matova, who has since been transferred to Hwange. The two accused are represented by lawyers Chris Mhike, Douglas Coltart and Beatrice Mtetwa.At the last remand hearing, CID Law and Order Harare officer-in-charge Edmore Nyadzamba told the court that Mhlanga allegedly "engaged the late Blessed Geza and provided facilities for him to record utterances" that were said to encourage citizens to revolt against the government. Nyadzamba said the messages were later transmitted through digital platforms.Mhike challenged the allegations, arguing that Mhlanga had no authority over HStv's editorial or broadcasting decisions as he is neither a director nor a shareholder of the media entity.Mtetwa pointed to what she described as contradictions between Nyadzamba's testimony and the State outline, noting that prosecutors alleged incitement against the President while Nyadzamba referred to incitement against the government.Nyadzamba dismissed the claim of inconsistency, stating that "the President is the head of government and commander-in-chief".Mtetwa argued that the position conflated presidential authority with other arms of the State, adding that it reflected ideological reasoning rather than legal clarity.In closing submissions at previous hearings, the defence cited Section 60 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and media freedom, arguing that journalists are duty-bound to report on matters of public interest.Nyadzamba acknowledged the constitutional right to disseminate information but maintained that the right is not absolute, arguing that distributing content likely to incite violence is unlawful.Mtetwa countered that the broadcast in question contained no violent content and was not understood by viewers as a call for the violent removal of the President. She further argued that Geza's press conference was constitutional and accused police of omitting sections of the Constitution from transcripts to distort his remarks.She also questioned why HStv was charged six months after the broadcast, to which Nyadzamba responded that investigations can take time. Defence lawyers argued that HStv was later included in the matter as part of a "dragnet" after police failed to build a strong case against Mhlanga alone.The matter returns to court in March. NAPA, Calif. , Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On January 31st, Rare Champagne proudly participated in the live auction at the 26th annual Naples Winter Wine Festival, held at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon, raising more than $30 million in total. This marked the Maison's third consecutive year participating in the event which has raised more than $366 million for children in need since its inception in 2001. Auction Lot 2 , entitled "In the Footsteps of a Queen with Rare Champagne," secured a winning bid of $350,000. The experience includes: Courtesy of Rare Champagne Six nights in France , immersed in the elegance and heritage of Paris and Champagne. , immersed in the elegance and heritage of Paris and Champagne. Three nights in Paris featuring a private visit to the Palace of Versailles with access to Queen Marie Antoinette's private apartment and a visit to fine jewelry boutique Maison Mellerio , the oldest and last family-owned jewelry house in France. and a visit to fine jewelry boutique , the oldest and last family-owned jewelry house in France. Their party will continue to Reims for three nights where guests will receive a VIP vineyard and cellar tour with Rare Champagne's Chef de Cave Emilien Boutillat followed by a special tasting. followed by a special tasting. Their party will visit the famous Reims Cathedral and luxuriate in suites at the restored Residence Eisenhower , including a multi-course wine-paired dinner featuring a vertical tasting of Rare Champagne from the 1985 to 2015 vintages. , including a multi-course wine-paired dinner featuring a vertical tasting of Rare Champagne from the 1985 to 2015 vintages. Each couple will then receive magnums of Rare Millesime 2008 and Rare Rose Millesime 2014, allowing them to relive their luxurious French experience back home. "At Rare Champagne, we honor the patience of time and the artistry of nature in every bottle. To see our cuvees play a part in the remarkable generosity of the Naples Winter Wine Festival is deeply rewarding. It is a privilege to support an event that celebrates excellence and champions the next generation," said Maud Rabin, Directrice Rare Champagne. To date, Rare Champagne has raised $1,580,000 for the Naples Winter Wine Festival's charity partners. Using the funds raised from this year's auction lot from Rare Champagne, NCEF will award grants to local organizations and fund strategic initiatives supporting Collier County children in need on March 16, 2025. AUCTION LOT DETAILS: Linked HERE IMAGES: Linked HERE FIND RARE CHAMPAGNE: Visit NobleMerchants.com to discover Rare Champagne Brut and Rose available for purchase. ABOUT RARE CHAMPAGNE: Rare Champagne's noble origins date back to May 6, 1785, when Florens-Louis Heidsieck met Queen Marie Antoinette for the first time: "I wanted a cuvee worthy of a queen!" He wrote. The legend was born 200 years later with the unveiling of the very first Rare Champagne vintage, Rare Millesime 1976, presented at the Chateau de Versailles, in 1985. Over the past 40 years, Rare Champagne has only released 14 vintages, all in limited series: 1976, 1979, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2012, 2013, and Rare Rose Millesime 2007, 2008, 2012, and 2014. The cellar master is committed to selecting exceptional and unique vintages, showcasing a perfect mastery over nature and an experience born of time and expertise. Rare Champagne is a line into a richly fruity generosity, a touch of elegance rounded by the sensuality of warm, tropical notes with hints of brioche. The house was the first with Piper-Heidsieck and Charles Heidsieck to achieve B Corp Certification in Champagne in 2022; and the House has just successfully renewed it in 2025. They joined the selective B Lab community, a non-profit network founded in 2006. SOURCE Rare Champagne Coinbase and Circle return as sponsors HAMILTON, Bermuda, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SALT , a leading global investment forum, and Penrose Partners , a Bermuda-based digital asset advisory firm, today announced the second annual Bermuda Digital Finance Forum will take place May 1114, 2026, at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club in Hamilton, Bermuda. The event will feature leading asset allocators, asset managers, protocols and entrepreneurs at the forefront of digital finance, fintech and artificial intelligence. Bermuda Digital Finance Forum 2026 Now in its second year, the Bermuda Digital Finance Forum builds on the success of its inaugural edition, fostering high-level dialogue, curated networking and forward-looking discussions on topics ranging from stablecoin adoption to insurance and AI. Coinbase and Circle return as Forum sponsors, following last year's first-of-its-kind community airdrop, which onboarded over 400 local residents to digital finance using Coinbase wallets and USDC. The Digital Finance Forum 2026 will feature two days of core programming and an on-the-ground activation designed to onboard Bermudian residents and local businesses to digital finance. The event will have elevated networking opportunities and curated off-site excursions throughout. "We are thrilled to bring the Bermuda Digital Finance Forum back for a second year," commented John Darsie, CEO of SALT. "The Forum continues to advance meaningful conversations among global leaders shaping the evolution of digital finance, while spotlighting Bermuda as a hub for innovation, investment and regulatory progress." Sean Stapley, Partner at Penrose Partners, added, "What sets this event apart is its ability to bridge global leadership in digital assets with real-world local adoption of digital finance. By pairing institutional dialogue with hands-on community engagement, the Forum supports the growth of the digital asset ecosystem and its practical integration into Bermuda's local economy." The Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, Premier of Bermuda, added, "The Government of Bermuda is pleased to welcome back the Bermuda Digital Finance Forum. Last year marked a significant milestone in our digital finance journey, with strong participation from local residents and businesses across the island in a community initiative designed to educate and empower them to use digital money. This Forum reinforces Bermuda's position as a global leader in digital finance regulation and innovation, while ensuring that Bermudians are active participants in the future of finance." Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now open. For more information on the Forum agenda, speaking opportunities and attendance criteria, please visit: digitalfinanceforum.com About SALT SALT is a global thought leadership forum covering the intersection of finance, technology and public policy. Founded in 2009, SALT's global event series and media properties convene key executives, investors and government officials to accelerate digital innovation in financial services and beyond. For more information, please visit salt.org. About Penrose Partners Founded in 2019, Penrose Partners is an award-winning digital asset consultancy that advises public and private sector institutions on strategy, business development, and education programs. Penrose's mission is to help drive the global adoption of digital assets to create a more open and inclusive financial system. The firm works at the intersection of innovation, regulation, and enterprise, supporting leading organizations including Coinbase, Circle, Apex, the NEAR Foundation, and the Government of Bermuda. Headquartered in Bermuda, Penrose Partners operates globally across Toronto, Montreal, New York and London. Media Contacts: Prosek Partners for SALT [email protected] Lorna Hutchman Penrose Partners, Partner [email protected] SOURCE SALT MOHEGAN LAKE, N.Y., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Shrub Oak International School is pleased to announce the appointment of Sophia Capozzoli, MS, BCBA, LBA as the school's new BCBA Coordinator. In this role, Sophia will provide leadership and clinical oversight to Shrub Oak's Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, with a primary focus on supporting students in the Founders Cohort while also contributing across all student groups. Sophia Capozzoli, MS, BCBA, LBA, Shrub Oak International School BCBA Coordinator Sophia Capozzoli is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst with more than a decade of experience supporting autistic individuals in a wide range of applied settings. She began her career as a Direct Support Professional, establishing a strong foundation in person-centered, ethical, and compassionate behavioral support. Sophia earned her BCBA credential in February 2020 and obtained New York State licensure later that year. She is deeply committed to professional development and mentorship, with a particular focus on providing high-quality supervision to BCBA candidates and Registered Behavior Technicians. Her work emphasizes best practices in supervision, ethical clinical decision-making, and the cultivation of future leaders in the field of behavior analysis. Prior to joining Shrub Oak International School, Sophia supervised the behavior services team in the adult program at Anderson Center for Autism. During her tenure, she collaborated across programs and presented on interdisciplinary efforts at the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis (NYSABA) Annual Conference in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Her academic experience includes supervising practicum students at SUNY New Paltz and Empire State University, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor in the Master's Program in Applied Behavior Analysis at SUNY New Paltz during the Spring 2025 semester. In addition to her clinical and supervisory work, Sophia has a strong interest in applied research, with an emphasis on translating evidence-based practices into meaningful, real-world applications. Her professional interests include ethical practice, supervision and training, and advancing the field of applied behavior analysis through collaboration, dissemination, and ongoing learning. "I'm honored to join the Shrub Oak community and excited to collaborate with such a dedicated team to support students through high-quality, ethical, and individualized ABA programming," said Capozzoli. "I look forward to mentoring staff and helping ensure our practices continue to evolve in meaningful ways for the students and families we serve." Salam Soliman, PsyD, ABPP, Director of Clinical Services and Research at Shrub Oak International School, shared enthusiasm about Sophia's appointment: "Sophia brings extensive experience supervising Behavior Specialists, Analysts, RBTs, and BCBA candidates, as well as leading staff trainings and overseeing high-quality ABA programming. Her collaborative leadership style and commitment to ethical, data-driven practice will be a wonderful addition to our community." Shrub Oak International School is proud to welcome Sophia Capozzoli to its interdisciplinary team of educators, clinicians, and specialists dedicated to empowering autistic students through individualized, evidence-based, and compassionate care. About Shrub Oak International School and The Pines at Shrub Oak The mission of Shrub Oak International School is to improve the lives of autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. Through individualized, strengths- and passion-based learning, we help students form meaningful relationships, navigate their communities, and maximize their potential. Located on the campus of Shrub Oak International School, The Pines at Shrub Oak is a specialized therapeutic program designed to address the unique needs of neurodiverse children, adolescents, and young adultswith or without an autism diagnosiswho require intensive psychiatric support. Shrub Oak International School is accredited by: The National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA), Level III Therapeutic Certification, Academic Accreditation, with an Autism Endorsement; The Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), a globally recognized leader in school accreditation and improvement; and Cognia, signifying that the school meets or exceeds rigorous standards of educational quality and effectiveness. For more information about Shrub Oak International School, visit www.shruboak.org or contact Lauren Koffler, Head of Admissions and Organizational Growth, at [email protected]. SOURCE Shrub Oak International School After two years of contraction, UK corporate profits are finally turning the corner. Deutsche Bank expects the second half of 2025 to mark the first sustained return to earnings growth since early 2023, with rate cuts, fading trade shocks and improving sentiment setting up a stronger 2026. UK equities have spent much of the past two years trapped in a grind of downgrades, margin pressure and policy uncertainty. That phase now looks close to its end. According to Deutsche Bank Research, earnings across the FTSE 100 are set to rise by 1% year on year in the second half of 2025, the first positive reading since the first half of 2023. While that rebound is modest, Deutsche argues consensus is still too cautious and leaves room for upside surprises this earnings season. The implication is simple. Britain is moving back into a growth phase, just as valuations remain compressed relative to global peers. Earnings growth turns positive at last Deutsche expects the second half to mark an inflection point rather than a one-off. Health care and consumer discretionary companies are forecast to provide the biggest support to year-on-year earnings growth, offsetting continued weakness in energy and consumer staples. Consensus currently assumes a 4% sequential decline in earnings versus the first half. Deutsche is less pessimistic, arguing that fading trade uncertainty, additional Bank of England rate cuts and better-than-expected UK data point to scope for earnings to beat expectations by around 4%. That matters because the downgrade cycle has already been brutal. Earnings estimates were cut by roughly 9% through the first three quarters of 2025, and while revisions stabilised late in the year, forecasts still sit well below pre-shock levels. 2026 is where the momentum builds If the second half of 2025 is about stabilisation, 2026 is where Deutsche sees momentum building. The bank forecasts FTSE 100 earnings growth of around 8% next year, accelerating from a 1% decline in 2025. UK small and mid-caps are expected to grow even faster, with earnings up about 10%, despite having lagged large caps badly over the past year. Basic materials and utilities are highlighted as key swing factors. After acting as a drag on profits, basic materials are expected to turn into a meaningful tailwind in 2026, while energys negative contribution to earnings growth should shrink sharply. The risk, Deutsche notes, is political noise. Local elections and renewed fiscal debates could inject volatility into UK assets. But the bank sees limited downside risk to large-cap earnings forecasts, with slightly higher sensitivity among FTSE 250 names. Sales flat, margins under pressure, but manageable Revenue growth remains the weak link. Deutsche expects sales to be broadly flat in the second half, with energy again acting as the biggest drag on year-on-year comparisons. That combination, flat sales and modest earnings declines sequentially, implies some margin compression versus the first half. Aggregate FTSE 100 margins are forecast to ease slightly to around 11%. Even so, the broader picture is one of stabilisation rather than deterioration. Telcos and real estate are expected to see the strongest sales growth, while financials and industrials should contribute positively overall. Valuations still price in scepticism Despite the improving outlook, UK equities remain cheap. Deutsche points out that forward price-to-earnings multiples for both the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 sit well below long-term averages and at a steep discount to US indices. Small and mid-caps look particularly undervalued, reflecting prolonged earnings downgrades and weak relative performance. That disconnect, improving earnings on one hand and depressed valuations on the other, is the crux of the investment case. After two years of disappointment, Britain does not need perfection. It simply needs growth to come back. Deutsches message is that it finally is. About this content About Ian Lyall Ian Lyall, a seasoned journalist and editor, brings over three decades of experience to his role as Managing Editor at Proactive. Overseeing Proactive's editorial and broadcast operations across six offices on three continents, Ian is responsible for quality control, editorial policy, and content production. He directs the creation of 50,000 pieces of real-time news, feature articles, and filmed interviews annually. Prior to Proactive, Ian helped lead the business output at the Daily... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. Optima Health PLC (AIM:OPT) chief executive, Jonathan Thomas, talked with Proactive about the companys strong first half performance, posting 17% revenue growth. Thomas credited both organic expansion and recent M&A activityincluding the acquisitions of Cognate Health in Ireland and Care Firstas key contributors. The market backdrop is really good. There's great demand for our services. We're winning new business and we anticipate to continue to grow, said Thomas. He outlined how Cognate Health has now been rebranded as Optima Health Ireland, with the company beginning to leverage revenue synergies across jurisdictions. Care First, which complements Optimas existing EAP and mental health operations, is expected to complete its integration in Q4 of the current financial year. Thomas also discussed the companys operational transformation programme, which is designed to improve margins and scale effectively as growth continues. This includes clinical enhancements, automating processes, and optimising central support functions. Fortuna Metals Limited (ASX: FUN) has reported shallow hand-auger drilling results that it says confirm high-grade rutile mineralisation at its Mkanda rutile and graphite project in Malawi. Assays from 96 hand-auger holes, based on 02 metre composites, returned in-situ rutile grades of up to 1.78%, with 36 of the 96 results (37.5%) grading above 1.0% rutile and more than 20% above 1.2%, according to the company. Top results reported from surface include: 2 metres at 1.78% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0136) 2 metres at 1.70% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0068) 2 metres at 1.61% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0142) 2 metres at 1.53% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0122) 2 metres at 1.51% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0038) 2 metres at 1.50% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0090) 2 metres at 1.43% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0159) 2 metres at 1.37% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0107) 2 metres at 1.37% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0105) 2 metres at 1.34% rutile from 0 metres (MHA0091) Fortuna said the 02 metres composites define several large coherent high-grade rutile anomalies covering about 25 km, with the mineralised footprint open in multiple directions, including at depth, along strike and laterally. The company noted there are 534 additional 02-metre composites still pending, which it expects will help refine the size of anomalies identified to date and guide which full-depth intervals should be prioritised for lab analysis. Fortuna added that grade can vary between surface samples and deeper intervals, with grades often decreasing at depth in individual holes. Fortuna has now completed 675 hand-auger holes across about 180 km of the Mkanda project on a notional 80-by-400-metre spacing. It said future programs are intended to assess whether rutile mineralisation extends between the anomalies and over broader areas. High grade >0.95% rutile (magenta) defined by soil and shallow 0-2m drilling composite, with the majority open along strike and laterally over large areas at the Mkanda. We are extremely pleased with the latest shallow 0-2m results that have helped outline several large coherent anomalies of high grade >1.0% rutile mineralisation. The footprint of the anomalous areas now extends over 25km2 and remain open in many areas with assays for 564 drill holes not received. Sovereign Metals' initial 644Mt inferred resource covered ~49km2," Fortuna CEO Tom Langley said. "We look forward to receiving the remaining 534 shallow 0-2m assays to further delineate and expand the rutile mineralisation at surface ahead of further drilling in Q2 this year. The shallow assays provide a very cost-effective strategy as a first pass to identify the highest priority areas that fall within the high-grade >1.0% rutile anomalies." Further assays pending as Fortuna plans targeted follow-up drilling in 2026 The company expects to release further results from the 2025 hand-auger drilling through Q1 2026, including remaining 02-metre composites and full-hole assays from priority high-grade areas (with average hole depths of 810 metres). Areas of higher-grade rutile are slated for follow-up drilling on a 200-by-200-metre grid during the 2026 campaign. Separately, Fortuna said it is reviewing potential for associated monazite and zircon, referencing Sovereign Metals rare earths discovery at Kasiya, about 20 kilometres north of Mkanda in a similar geological setting. Fortuna also reported receiving a letter from Malawis Department of Mining stating Executive Order No. 2 of 2025 which restricts raw mineral exports does not apply to Fortuna Metals Malawi projects. We are grateful to the Malawian Ministry of Energy and Mining for their support of our projects in Malawi by providing a letter clarifying that the company is unaffected by the raw mineral ban announced last October. Fortuna welcomes the governments initiative to further support the local mining industry by value adding and beneficiating minerals in Malawi before being exported," Langley said. The need for titanium Titanium is increasingly used in robotics and advanced manufacturing because it combines low weight with high strength and durability, supporting lighter components without sacrificing performance. Titanium alloys can also enable complex, lightweight designs that reduce energy use while maintaining operating effectiveness, with applications extending to industrial automation and precision handling in sectors such as medical equipment and high-tech manufacturing. In the titanium supply chain, natural rutile (TiO 9397%), leucoxene (TiO 7093%) and ilmenite (TiO 4864%) are the main feedstocks for titanium dioxide pigment, titanium metal and other end uses including welding electrodes. Natural rutile is considered the highest-grade titanium feed source, and the company cited pricing of about US$1,1001,700 per tonne, alongside an outlook that the titanium metal market could grow from about US$30B in 2025 to US$54B by 2034 (CAGR 6.5%). Fortuna added that declining output from legacy producers and depletion of traditional deposits could tighten supply as demand rises. Natural rutile is a critical mineral used to make titanium metal needed for the forecast surging demand for humanoids and robotics in the coming decade, with Tesla recently announcing they would cease making two car models to instead focus on making the Optimus humanoid this year. Tesla are expecting ~1 million humanoids sold in 2027 and billions of humanoids by 2040," Langley said. "With ~10.4kg of rutile projected to be used in each humanoid unit, there is the potential for a severe supply shortfall. We aim to be able to fill that gap with supply of our own high-grade rutile to manufacture titanium metal in the coming years. These results continue to confirm the similarity across broader areas of the Mkanda project to the geological setting seen at Kasiya, just 20km to the north. The 675 drillholes completed in just three months late last year is testament to the favourable project access and in-country Malawi team. Our focus is to undertake exploration with intent and speed to market as we aim to delineate a material rutile resource estimate next to Sovereign Metals world-class Kasiya deposit. The 675 drill holes are a first pass to identify the highest grade areas of rutile that will then shape further resource drilling programs in 2026. We are extremely catalyst-rich as these results define the magnitude of the rutile discovery made to date. The company has embarked on a busy Q1 with the management team in country this month and attending the 121 Mining Investment Conference in Cape Town to meet with existing and potential new investors. We look forward to updating the market with a consistent flow of rutile, graphite and rare earths drilling results throughout Q1 and Q2 of 2026. About this content About Jonathan Jackson Jonathan Jackson is an experienced writer and editor. Over the past 20 years, he has worked in print and digital media across several business and finance titles amd is currently the Australian news editor at Proactive Investors covering the latest news for ASX listed companies as well as current financial trends. He was previously managing editor with Business First magazine, Wealth Creator Magazine and StocksDigital. Jonathan has interviewed some of the world's top CEOs and covered... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. News / National by Staff reporter The Constitutional Court (ConCourt) has granted political activist Mbuso Fuzwayo and Matabeleland-based pressure group Ibhetshu LikaZulu direct access to Zimbabwe's highest court to challenge President Emmerson Mnangagwa's 2030 political agenda.The ruling followed a hearing held on Monday and allows the applicants to file an application arguing that the proposed extension of Mnangagwa's tenure is unconstitutional and violates Zimbabwe's presidential term limits.The ruling allows Fuzwayo to file his substantive constitutional application within five days, while the respondents will have three days thereafter to submit their response.The matter was heard before a panel of senior judges Chief Justice Paddington Garwe, Justice Ben Hlatshwayo and Justice Bharat Patel.Fuzwayo is seeking to challenge Zanu PF Resolution 1 of 2024, which proposes extending Mnangagwa's presidential term from 2028 to 2030, a move critics describe as unconstitutional "tenure elongation".Direct access to the Constitutional Court is governed by Section 167 of the Constitution and Rule 21 of the Constitutional Court Rules (Statutory Instrument 61 of 2016). Applicants must demonstrate that granting such access is in the interests of justice.The remedy is reserved for exceptional and significant constitutional matters, particularly where urgent intervention is required or where lower courts are deemed unable to adequately resolve the dispute.In granting direct access, the court accepted that the application raises serious constitutional questions warranting immediate consideration by the apex court.The Constitutional Court is expected to issue further directions once pleadings are complete.The decision means the apex court will directly hear the substantive matter without it first going through lower courts, underscoring the constitutional significance of the dispute.Ibhetshu LikaZulu has been one of the most vocal civic groups opposing what critics describe as "tenure elongation," warning that extending the President's term would undermine democratic governance and the Constitution.The court has yet to set dates for the filing of arguments and the hearing of the main application. About this content About Lisa Uhlman Lisa Uhlman is an equities reporter at Proactive Investors, covering ASX-listed companies across the mining, energy, biotech and emerging tech sectors. With a background in legal and financial journalism, Lisa brings a sharp analytical lens to market news and corporate developments. Prior to joining Proactive, she reported for national trade publications and newswires, with a focus on court reporting, regulatory affairs and ESG-related business issues. Based in Sydney, she is... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. About this content About Kerry Stevenson Kerry Stevenson joins Proactive Australia's broadcast team part time. As the Managing Director of Gold Events Kerry has been hosting the annual Australian Gold Conference for over 14 years, connecting industry and investment professionals and showcasing the value of precious metals. Kerry is passionate about helping others to secure a safe and solid future by understanding money, finance, and strategy. That is why she created the Making Money Matter channel on YouTube, where... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. Resolution Minerals Ltd (ASX:RML, OTC:RLMLF, FRA:NC3) has hit broad, near-surface gold mineralisation in two of three diamond holes drilled at the southern end of the Golden Gate Fault Zone at its 100%-owned Horse Heaven gold-antimony-tungsten-silver project in Idaho, with all holes ending in mineralisation. The company said the results support a new gold discovery at Golden Gate South, extending the Golden Gate system beyond the initial discovery at Golden Gate North. The maiden 2025 Horse Heaven drilling included 3 diamond core holes at Golden Gate South for 887 metres. Holes HH-GG25-008C and HH-GG25-010C tested gold anomalies identified in surface rock samples from a vein system along the Golden Gate access road, linked to a CSAMT geophysical anomaly. Hole HH-GG25-009C followed up historic intercepts from holes 87-GGR-4, 87-GGR-10 and 87-GGR-45, also associated with a low-resistivity CSAMT anomaly. Key intercepts reported were: HH-GG25-009C: 172.2 metres @ 0.464 grams per tonne (g/t) Au, including 27.6 metres @ 0.89 g/t Au, with a best interval of 3.3 g/t over 1.5 metres; hole ended in mineralisation HH-GG25-010C: 225.5 metres @ 0.14 g/t Au from surface to end of hole HH-GG25-008C: anomalous mineralisation through the hole, ending in mineralisation grading 0.91 g/t Au The holes ending in mineralisation suggest potential for extensions at depth, while near-surface tungsten was intersected in multiple shallow veins, pointing to additional multi-commodity upside. The companys first significant near-surface discovery at Golden Gate North included 189.2 metres @ 1.3 g/t Au (HH-GG25-001C) and 253 metres @ 1.5 g/t Au (HH-GG25-003C), with mineralisation also open at depth. Drill hole parameters of holes subject of this announcement, HH-GG25-008C, HH-GG25-008C, HH-GG25-008C (highlighted), and of drillholes already released to the market. With Golden Gate South now added, Resolution said mineralisation along Golden Gate North and South extends over about 1.5 kilometres of strike. Horse Heaven sits in Idaho and is immediately adjacent to Perpetua Resources Stibnite gold project. The discovery at Golden Gate South materially expands the Golden Gate gold system and confirms the presence of multiple mineralised shear zones over a substantial strike length, RMLs CEO of US Operations, Craig Lindsay, said. With mineralisation open in all directions and drilling returning broad, near-surface intercepts, Golden Gate is rapidly emerging as a highly significant gold discovery. The interval lengths and grades on holes assayed to date, and the fact that mineralisation continues over such a long strike length, make us very excited to continue drilling here and target establishment of a maiden JORC compliant mineral resource. Upscaled drilling planned as Golden Gate footprint expands Resolutions diamond hole HH-GG25-009C has confirmed broad, intermittent gold mineralisation at Golden Gate South, with mineralisation present through to the end of hole and considered open at depth. The hole was collared about 200 metres south of historical shallow drilling that returned anomalous gold in pre-RML holes 87-GGR-43 to 45, and Resolution said mineralisation styles mirror those seen at Golden Gate North. Resolution described the gold in HH-GG25-009C as associated with disseminated pyrite, plus quartz vein-hosted pyrite and arsenopyrite within sericite- to chlorite-altered monzonite and volcanic rocks. The company believes the mineralisation relates to a steep, east-dipping sulphide-bearing shear zone around 500 metres east of the main Golden Gate gold-bearing shear that hosts Golden Gate North. This interpretation supports a second, parallel northeastsouthwest trending structure the Vibika Shear Zone where rock chip sampling from the Vibika adits and southern Golden Gate hill suggests mineralisation could extend over about 3 km of strike. HH-GG25-010C At HH-GG25-010C, Resolution targeted north-striking quartz veining and silicification along strike from the historical Copper Cliff prospect and intersected gold mineralisation through the full length of the hole, alongside intermittent silver and pervasive low-level tungsten mineralisation. The hole also ended in mineralisation, leaving the system open-ended. Resolution noted HH-GG25-010C intersected three narrow veins of strong tungsten mineralisation at shallow depths, with tungsten associated with Au-Ag-Sb mineralisation, though regional evidence suggests tungsten may occur as a distinct phase. Cross section of drill hole HH-GG25-010C. HH-GG25-008C Meanwhile, HH-GG25-008C was drilled westward to test the eastern extension of the Golden Gate Shear Zone and returned broad intervals of anomalous gold across the hole, with both gold mineralisation and arsenic increasing with depth. Resolution said grades appeared consistently stronger below 1,000 feet downhole and the hole ended in mineralisation grading 0.91 g/t Au, the highest value recorded in the hole, again pointing to depth potential. Cross section of drill hole HH-GG25-008C. Follow-up drilling from new spur roads further west is planned to better intersect the principal Golden Gate shear zone mineralised corridor. Whats next Looking ahead, Resolution said Golden Gate now comprising the Golden Gate North deposit and the emerging Golden Gate South prospect is shaping as a significant near-surface gold discovery, with combined mineralisation extending around 1.5 kilometres along a northeastsouthwest trend and remaining open along strike and at depth. It also flagged potential lateral repeats across strike, supported by repeating northeastsouthwest faults that juxtapose Golden Gate North and South. Resolution expects assays for HH-GG25-006C and the 3 reverse circulation holes drilled late in the 2025 season at Golden Gate North to be released once available, and said it is planning an upscaled drill campaign at Golden Gate from as early as May, focused on expanding both North and South discoveries. RML expects to be in a position to commission a maiden JORC mineral resource estimate at Golden Gate North after completing the planned 2026 drill program. It also plans tungsten-focused drilling near the historic Golden Gate Tungsten Mine (last operated in 1980) and further south along the Golden Gate Fault where soil sampling has outlined a tungsten anomaly. All 2026 drilling will be conducted under an existing drill permit, while a new exploration permit is being pursued to broaden the footprint and enable drilling across a much larger area using new roads and reopened closed roads. The company has also submitted samples from the 2026 Golden Gate drilling for initial metallurgical testwork. About this content About Emily Jarvie Emily began her career as a political journalist for Australian Community Media in Hobart, Tasmania. After she relocated to Toronto, Canada, she reported on business, legal, and scientific developments in the emerging psychedelics sector before joining Proactive in 2022. She brings a strong journalism background with her work featured in newspapers, magazines, and digital publications across Australia, Europe, and North America, including The Examiner, The Advocate, The Canberra Times, and... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Washington, Feb 9 : US Senator Adam Schiff warned that President Donald Trump's calls to "nationalize" US elections could undermine democracy at home and damage America's standing abroad, as the country moves toward midterm elections. Speaking on ABC's This Week, Schiff said Trump appeared prepared to interfere in the vote if Republicans lose. "I think he'll intend to try to subvert the elections," Schiff said. "He will do everything he can to suppress the vote." Schiff said Americans should take the warning seriously. He pointed to Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election. "We saw him try to the point of insurrection to overturn the 2020 election," he said. Schiff said Trump's recent actions and rhetoric suggest a similar approach ahead of November. "He's basically telling us he intends to interfere in this coming election," he said. The California Democrat said the issue goes beyond US domestic politics. He warned that repeated claims of election fraud weaken confidence in American democracy and are closely watched overseas. Schiff raised alarm over the involvement of the Director of National Intelligence in an FBI operation that seized 2020 election materials in Georgia. He said the intelligence chief has no role in domestic election matters. "Her job is to oversee the work of the intelligence agencies outward focusing on foreign threats," Schiff said, "not to create a threat to our domestic tranquility by interfering in elections." He called the episode "unprecedented" and questioned why authorities revisited an election that had already been reviewed multiple times. "Why is the FBI conducting a raid five years after the fact when there were three recounts in Georgia?" he asked. Schiff said such actions appeared designed to send a warning. "The message is, we will not tolerate or accept an election that we lose," he said. He also linked election concerns to immigration enforcement. Schiff said lawmakers must ensure that federal agents do not intimidate voters. "We don't have ICE agents at polling places," he said, adding that elections must be "free" and "fair." Schiff criticized Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville's claim that some elections were "bogus," which Trump later shared online. "This is just the latest iteration of the big lie," Schiff said. He accused Republicans of laying the groundwork to dispute election results if they lose. "They keep telling the American people that somehow American elections are untrustworthy," he said. Schiff rejected proposals requiring proof of citizenship or photo identification to vote. He said such measures would suppress turnout. "It's part of the broader disenfranchisement effort," he said. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler, appearing separately on the program, condemned a Trump-linked post that used racist imagery of former President Barack Obama. Lawler called it "wrong and incredibly offensive" and said it should never have been shared. Schiff said protecting democracy will ultimately fall to voters, not politicians or courts. "The last, best hope for our democracy is going to be the American people," he said. For international audiences, including in India, the debate underscores how internal US political battles can have wider consequences, shaping global views of American democratic stability and leadership. -- Syndicated from IANS Sydney, Feb 9 : Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Sydney Monday morning to begin a four-day visit to Australia that is intended to show support for the Jewish community following a terror attack at Bondi Beach last December, but has also sparked controversy due to Israel's policies toward the Palestinians. Herzog said in a statement that he would visit Jewish communities across Australia to "express solidarity and offer strength to the community in the aftermath of the attack," Xinhua news agency reported quoting the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Invited by Australia's governor-general and prime minister, Herzog is expected to attend major community events with leaders of the Australian Jewish community and meet with senior politicians. At the same time, Herzog's visit has also faced opposition from some Australian groups and members of the public over Israel's policies and actions toward the Palestinians. More than 1,000 Australian Jews signed an open letter saying that Herzog was "not welcome here." Protests have been planned in several Australian cities, including Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, which Herzog is scheduled to visit. In Sydney, protesters are due to hold a rally and march in the city center on Monday evening, while police in the state of New South Wales (NSW) will deploy more than 3,000 officers throughout Herzong's visit, including 500 for the planned demonstration. On December 14 last year, a mass shooting targeting a Jewish holiday celebration took place at Bondi Beach in Sydney, leaving 16 people dead, including one of the two suspected perpetrators. The Australian government said the attack was a terrorist act inspired by the ideology of the extremist group Islamic State. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Chennai, Feb 9 : Actor Fahadh Faasil has now disclosed that he plays the villain in director Mahesh Narayanan's eagerly-awaited thriller 'Patriot', featuring both superstars of Malayalam cinema Mammootty and Mohanlal. For the unaware, the film is scheduled to hit screens worldwide on April 23 this year. Fahadh, who participated in an event recently, made this disclosure on stage. "I play the villain in Patriot," he said and went on to also confirm that there would be a second part to his blockbuster film 'Aavesham'. "Yes, Aavesham 2 is there. That is a question that people ask me everywhere I go. Hopefully, (in) 2027 or 2028," he said. Meanwhile, the makers of 'Patriot' have confirmed that Mohanlal has completed dubbing for his portions in the film. On the film's official Instagram handle, the makers posted a video clip of Mohanlal flashing the thumbs up sign after dubbing and wrote, "Some voices do not just speak, they define moments. Mohanlal has completed dubbing for Patriot. In Cinemas Worldwide from April 23. #Mohanlal #AntoJoseph #AntoJosephFilmCompany #Patriot #MaheshNarayanan." On January 4 this year, the makers of the film had announced that the unit had wrapped up the film's shooting. They wrote,"Thatas a wrap. Blood, sweat, belief. #PATRIOT marches on. See you on the Big screen." They also shared a BTS video of all the stars on the sets on the occasion. The film, which has triggered huge expectations ever since it was announced, also features acclaimed actors Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, and Revathy in addition to the two Malayalam superstars. A teaser which the makers released last year went on to amplify the expectations of fans and film buffs. The teaser begins with a voiceover which says, " I remember there was a time when this nation was controlled by the two of them. Together. Over these years, what they earned wasn't just followers. Faith. Trust." We then see a series of intriguing but intense scenes and hear Mammootty's voice say, "They are going to bring social score to people." We next hear Mohanlal, who appears to play an army general in the film, say, "There are three of us. Do you think you can stop us?" The teaser then gives us an idea that there is a program called Periscope and that Kunchacko Boban plays a character called Daniel. Nayanthara is heard asking,"This program which is part of the student laptop scheme. Is that similar to Periscope?" We also hear another voice, asking,"Is this program watching them secretly?" The teaser ends with Mammootty asking someone to complete the sentence, "Great Indian traitor... or Patriot." Overall, the teaser gives the impression that the film will revolve around a group of socially responsible individuals trying to thwart an illegal attempt by the government to monitor its citizens. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Chennai, Feb 9 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will inaugurate Tata Motors' newly established automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam, Ranipet district, on Monday, marking a major milestone in the state's industrial and employment growth. Chennai, Feb 9 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will inaugurate Tata Motorsa newly established automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam, Ranipet district, on Monday, marking a major milestone in the stateas industrial and employment growth. According to an official press release issued by the Ranipet district administration, the project involves an investment of Rs 9,000 crore and is expected to generate direct employment for nearly 5,000 people. The foundation stone for the facility was laid by the Chief Minister on September 28, 2024, on behalf of the Stateas Department of Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce. With preliminary works now completed, the plant is ready for operations. CM Stalin will formally open the factory and flag off the production of the first vehicle from the assembly line. The event is being seen as a significant boost to Tamil Naduas automobile manufacturing sector, reinforcing the stateas position as one of Indiaas leading automotive hubs. Handlooms and Textiles Minister R. Gandhi, Industries Minister Dr T.R.B. Rajaa, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and senior officials are expected to attend the function. The ministers have been closely monitoring the arrangements ahead of the launch. Extensive security measures have been put in place for the Chief Ministeras visit. The district police department announced that around 1,500 police personnel will be deployed under the supervision of Ranipet Superintendent of Police Ayman Jamal to ensure smooth proceedings and public safety. Minister R. Gandhi personally inspected the venue at the SIPCOT complex in Panapakkam, reviewing the stage arrangements for the Chief Minister, security protocols, the factory tour route, and the designated area where the first car will be unveiled. Officials said all preparations, including logistics and visitor management, have been completed. The Tata Motors plant is expected to strengthen industrial activity in Ranipet and neighbouring districts, while creating both direct and indirect job opportunities. The project aligns with the state governmentas broader strategy to attract large-scale investments and enhance manufacturing capacity. With the launch of the Panapakkam facility, Tamil Nadu takes another step forward in expanding its industrial footprint and fostering economic development across the region. Mumbai, Feb 9 : The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) on Monday said that with the conclusion of municipal elections and the appointment of new Mayors in several locations, the era of administrator-led governance has ended, making way for the rule of elected representatives. However, it claimed that the transition has been marred by allegations of "unethical power grab and erosion of democratic values". In a scathing attack on the BJP, the Thackeray camp in the party's mouthpiece 'Saamana' said the Bharatiya Janata Party is set to install Mayors in 10 out of 11 municipal corporations. "However, with the control over power, money, and the police force, the BJP acts as though it could install a Mayor anywhere -- even on the Moon or Mars -- and beat the drums of 'Hindu-Marathi' pride," it said The editorial said the way the BJP and its ilk desperately scramble and pour money into every election -- from the Lok Sabha down to the Gram Panchayats -- is staggering. "While Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis advises officials to practice austerity because the state treasury is empty, why does he not see the millions being squandered by the BJP and its allies in minor elections? These people have caused the complete downfall of Maharashtra's political culture over the last few years. The mourning period for Ajit Pawar's demise might end, but the mourning (dark cloud) over Maharashtra's political culture shows no sign of ending," it added. "There are 'absurd' and 'disposable' people in Fadnavis's cabinet who openly say, 'I distribute funds based on the party and symbol; if it's the 'Mashaal' symbol, I won't give a single rupee'. Distributing funds from public taxes in an undemocratic manner is embezzlement of government money. Every elected representative has an equal right to government funds, but the BJP has turned culture into a gutter, and Devendra Fadnavis is sitting in that gutter with his feet dangling," alleged the Thackeray camp. According to the editorial, in Mumbai, the BJP selected Ritu Tawade as the Mayoral candidate, saying that this choice of a Marathi face was a strategic move forced by the Shiv Sena's aggressive campaign on Marathi identity. Notably, Tawade immediately vowed to deport Bangladeshis from Mumbai. This stance has raised questions regarding Prime Minister Modi's approval, especially as the national budget continues to provide significant financial aid to Bangladesh despite ongoing attacks on Hindu temples there. However, in Mira-Bhayandar, the BJP overlooked local demands for a Marathi representative and appointed a non-Marathi Mayor instead. "The entire Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) unit in Kalyan-Dombivli reportedly aligned with the Shinde faction. In Nashik, MNS corporators also defected to the Shinde group. Some candidates elected under the 'Flaming Torch' (Mashal) symbol have shamelessly joined the Shinde faction or moved to the BJP. The BJP and the Shinde faction have abandoned their 'Hindutva' ideology for power, citing attempts to form alliances with the AIMIM in Malegaon, though the effort ultimately failed," claimed the editorial. The Thackeray camp said that the defectors often justify these moves by claiming they need to be with the ruling party to secure "development funds" for their wards. However, it claimed these moves were hollow excuses for those seeking contracts and committee positions. The editorial argued that it is a disturbing trend of "political termites" -- representatives defecting before the ink on the election results is even dry. The Thackeray camp, while maintaining the "civility" to congratulate the new Mayoral boards, has reiterated that the current political culture in Maharashtra has hit a new low, describing it as a "gutter" in which the "leadership is now comfortably wading". Opinion / Columnist Last year, I travelled extensively across Zimbabwe using two different vehicles: one registered in Zimbabwe, the other in South Africa. The contrast in treatment was impossible to ignore. When driving the Zimbabwean vehicle, I passed through the country with ease, rarely stopped at roadblocks. But when I used the South African-registered car, I was stopped at virtually every roadblock, asked to produce registration papers and Temporary Import Permits, only to be waved through once the officers recognised me.This is not unique to Zimbabwe. The same kind of harassment is common in Mozambique, and it is precisely why I stopped doing my once-a-year road trip from Johannesburg to Mozambique. The experience has consequences. I will also never again drive my South African vehicles into Zimbabwe. That decision means I will not be spending money at fuel stations, restaurants, lodges and rest points along routes such as the Masvingo road. Now imagine how many other South Africans make the same calculationand simply choose not to cross the border at all.This is a serious missed opportunity.In the early 1990s, before sanctions and economic decline took their toll, Zimbabwe was a major overland tourism corridor. South African vehicles towing caravans, trailers and boats were a common sight on our highways. Families drove through Zimbabwe en route to holiday destinations, stopping along the way, spending money, and experiencing the country beyond the major cities.Today, that picture has all but disappeared. Yet South Africa still has a massive market of campers, hikers, bikers and caravan enthusiastspeople who prefer road travel, who stay longer, and who spend money directly in local communities. These are exactly the kinds of tourists Zimbabwe should be courting. Instead, our policing methods are pushing them away.If Zimbabwe is serious about attracting both local and foreign overland tourism, then the way we police our roads must change. Excessive roadblocks, selective targeting of foreign-registered vehicles, and intrusive interrogations do not create a welcoming environment. They create anxiety, resentment and, ultimately, avoidance.Zimbabwe is not a police state, and it should not feel like one to those travelling through it. Effective road policing does not require draconian tactics. Other countries manage traffic safety, crime prevention and compliance through intelligence-led policing, mobile patrols, technology and fewer, well-placed checkpoints. Law enforcement can be firm without being hostile, visible without being obstructive.Tourism is not built by slogans and brochures alone. It is shaped by everyday experiencesby how easy it is to move, how welcome visitors feel, and whether the journey itself is pleasant or punishing. Every unnecessary roadblock is a silent signal telling potential visitors they are not trusted and not wanted.If we want Zimbabwe to be a destination for overlanders once again, the message must change. And that starts with making our roads places of passage, not pressure points. February 09 : Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government is continuously taking concrete steps towards the vision of inclusive development envisioned by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In this sequence, the process of acquiring 23,590 acres of land has been expedited for the expansion of the industrial area under the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority (BIDA). Along with this, the government has formally approved a total of 56,662 acres of land for industrial development. This decision goes beyond mere land acquisition and is being seen as the foundation for the economic and social transformation of Bundelkhand. The governments clear objective is to develop this long-neglected region into a new hub of investment, employment and industrial opportunities. The Yogi government aims to transform Bundelkhand from a region known primarily for raw resources into a strong hub for manufacturing, logistics and industrial production. An integrated industrial ecosystem is being developed in the BIDA area for heavy industries, defence manufacturing, logistics, MSMEs and ancillary units. Priority is being given to core infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply, industrial plots, warehousing and connectivity so that investors can experience a true 'ease of doing business'. The impact of this industrial initiative is now becoming visible on the ground. Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) has proposed an investment of approximately 600 crore in the BIDA region. Under this investment, manufacturing units for heavy machinery, defence equipment and industrial products will be established. According to government estimates, this project will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, providing local youth with employment opportunities within the region and effectively curbing migration. To further accelerate industrial activities in the BIDA region, a state-of-the-art multi-model logistics park will be developed on 100 acres of land. This project will be executed by Container Corporation of India (CONCOR). The logistics park will integrate road and rail networks, facilitating smoother cargo movement. This will reduce logistics costs for industries, strengthen supply chains and enhance export capacity. The benefits of the BIDA project will not be limited to large industries alone. The government is focused on integrating MSMEs, startups and ancillary industries into this industrial expansion. This will provide better opportunities for local entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic activity across Bundelkhand. The state government believes that the BIDA project will generate large-scale local employment opportunities for youth in the Bundelkhand region. A stronger industrial ecosystem will accelerate economic activities and help develop Bundelkhand as a model of a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh. This initiative by the Yogi government will not only give fresh momentum to industrial growth but will also lay a strong foundation for inclusive development by addressing regional imbalances. Kolkata, Feb 9 : With a crucial hearing at the Supreme Court on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal on Monday, uncertainty is persisting over the extension of the deadline for hearing on the claims and objections to the draft voters' list in the state, hours after the deadline expired at 12 midnight of February 7. Top officials from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, remained at their respective offices till late at night both on Saturday and Sunday, hoping for the intimation of the extension of the deadline from the Election Commission of India (ECI)'s headquarters in New Delhi. However, the intimation on this count did not arrive. The CEO of West Bengal, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, submitted a formal request for a seven-day extension of the deadline on February 6. As of now, the final voter's list is scheduled to be published on February 14. Now it is to be seen whether that date will also be postponed or not, depending on the period of extension of the deadline for the claims and objections on the draft voters' list. It will also have to be decided whether the extension will be only for 15 or so Assembly constituencies where the hearing process is yet to be completed, or whether it will be a general extension for the entire state. However, CEO's office insiders said, that despite not getting the formal approval from the ECI's headquarters over the extension of deadline for hearing session, the district magistrates, also the district electoral officers, in the districts concerned have been asked by the CEO's office to continue with the hearing process in the respective districts where the hearing exercise is yet to be completed. These Assembly constituencies are mainly scattered in three electoral districts of minority-dominated Malda, South 24 Parganas, and Kolkata (Uttar). "Although there was not much of a hearing in these three electoral districts on Sunday, the process will continue at its usual pace from Monday," said a CEO's office insider this morning. Meanwhile, over 4,00,000 additional voters have already been identified as eligible for deletion from the final voters' list because they failed to turn up for the hearing sessions on claims and objections to the draft voters' list despite being served subsequent notices. Out of these, 4,00,000 voters who are heading for imminent deletion, 50,000 are "unmapped" voters, and around 3,50,000 are "logical discrepancy" cases. Unmapped voters are those who were unable to establish a link with the 2002 voters' list either through "self-mapping" or "progeny mapping". On the other hand, "logical discrepancy" cases are those in which unusual family-tree data were detected during "progeny" mapping. When the draft voters' list was published in December last year, a total of 58,20,899 voters were deleted after being identified as deceased, shifted, or duplicates. With the publication of the final voters' list on February 14, the final number of deletions will become clear. February 09 : Lucknow: On the tariff joint statement issued under the proposed bilateral agreement between India and the United States, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "Under the strong and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has reached a framework for an interim trade agreement with the United States. This framework expands global opportunities for Indian exporters and MSMEs, while simultaneously safeguarding Indias agriculture sector, food security, the interests of our farmers and the strength of the rural economy". CM added, along with strengthening 'Make in India', it also creates employment opportunities for women and youth. The CM also appreciated the efforts of Union Minister Piyush Goyal in taking this agreement forward and expressed his gratitude to him. The tariff joint statement issued under the proposed bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States has given an important policy signal for Uttar Pradeshs export-based economy. The provision in the joint statement to reduce US tariffs on Indian products from an average of 50 percent to 18 percent, and to make them zero in selected categories, has come at a time when the state government is working on a strategy to connect labour-intensive industries, MSMEs and cluster-based manufacturing with global supply chains. The statement mentions bringing more than 30 billion dollars of Indian exports under the ambit of an 18 percent reciprocal tariff and granting zero duty benefits to selected products in around 14 categories under a potential tariff adjustment list. Its impact will not remain limited to trade figures alone, but will affect sectors such as textiles, leather, Agro-based industries, MSMEs and industrial manufacturing, where Uttar Pradeshs participation is significant at the national level. In this context, this tariff framework is being seen as a long-term opportunity for the states export structure, investment attraction and employment generation. The India-United States tariff joint statement provides for limiting US tariffs on textile and apparel products from an average of 50 percent to 18 percent, and for bringing silk-based products under the zero duty ambit. This arrangement is of special importance for those regions of Uttar Pradesh where production is largely labour-intensive and cluster-based. The Bhadohi-Mirzapur carpet sector, which is globally known for handmade carpets, has long been facing challenges of price competitiveness in the US market due to high import duties. After the tariff reduction, improvement in the cost structure of these products is expected, which could boost export orders and long-term supply contracts. Similarly, the silk and handloom sector of Varanasi, which is stated to receive zero duty benefits under the joint statement, may gain better access to the US market amid limited but stable demand. This tariff framework is also considered important for power loom and ready-made garment based production units of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Reduction in duties on products such as ready-made garments, man-made and cotton textiles could provide these units with comparative advantages in cost and pricing vis-a-vis countries like China, Vietnam and Bangladesh. According to experts, if the required improvements are made in logistics and quality standards, this tariff relief could help make exports from Uttar Pradeshs textile and carpet sector more stable and competitive. The proposal in the India-United States tariff joint statement to limit US import duties on leather and footwear products from an average of 50 percent to 18 percent is being considered significant for Uttar Pradeshs traditional leather clusters. Regions such as Kanpur and Agra, where a large share of production is concentrated in MSMEs and artisan-based units, have long faced competitiveness challenges in the US market due to high tariffs and cost pressures. Kanpurs leather industry is known for finished leather, footwear and related components, while the Agra footwear cluster is primarily export-oriented. The proposed tariff reduction is expected to lower overall export costs of these products, making pricing more competitive. Experts believe that this could increase possibilities of long-term supply contracts with US buyers and bring stability to export orders. Along with this, tariff relief is expected to improve the ability of small and medium enterprises to export directly. Until now, due to high duties, many units were compelled to operate through intermediaries. With reduced duties, their direct participation in the export chain could increase, ensuring that a larger share of value addition remains at the local level. The provision in the India-United States tariff joint statement to limit US import duties on home decor products from 50 percent to 18 percent, and to bring certain categories under the zero duty ambit, is being considered important for manufacturing clusters linked to western Uttar Pradesh and the NCR region. Products such as wooden furniture, cushions, quilts, comforters, non-electrical lighting and other decorative items are largely produced through MSMEs and artisan-based units. Units associated with home decor and handicrafts in regions such as Meerut, Saharanpur, Moradabad, Bulandshahr and Gautam Buddh Nagar have long been active in exports, but due to high tariffs and cost pressures, their competitive position in the US market remained limited. Tariff reduction is expected to lower overall export costs of these products, making pricing more viable in the US market. The benefit of tariff relief in this sector will not be limited to large exporters alone, but may also provide small producers and artisans with opportunities to connect directly with exports. This is expected to reduce dependence on intermediaries and ensure that a larger share of value addition remains at the local level. Along with this, the labour-intensive nature of the home decor industry is also significant from an employment generation perspective. If export orders remain consistent, it could create stable employment opportunities for artisans and workers associated with furniture, stitching and finishing. The proposal of zero duty on select agricultural products and processed food exports in the India-United States tariff joint statement is being viewed as a structural opportunity for Uttar Pradeshs agriculture-based economy. This category includes fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, tea-coffee extracts, ready-to-eat and other processed food products, in which Uttar Pradeshs production share is significant at the national level. Uttar Pradesh is the countrys leading mango-producing state and also plays a leading role in the production of potatoes, tomatoes, peas, green vegetables and spices. Until now, access of these products to the US market remained limited due to processing costs, tariffs and intense price competition. With zero duty, there is a strong possibility of significant reduction in overall export costs and improved price competitiveness of Indian products in the US market. In the context of processed food, this provision provides an opportunity to directly link the food processing clusters, cold chain and Agri-infrastructure developing in Uttar Pradesh with exports. Mega Food Parks, private processing units and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) established in the state can become part of the export chain through this framework. This is expected to promote value-added exports instead of raw agricultural produce. The proposal in the India-United States tariff joint statement to provide zero or minimal additional duty on industrial products such as pharmaceuticals, generic medicines, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API), machinery and auto components is being considered an important indicator for Uttar Pradeshs industrial development. This provision has come at a time when the state government is prioritising industrial investment, cluster-based production and export-oriented manufacturing. Pharma and manufacturing clusters are rapidly developing in Noida-Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Lucknow and the Bundelkhand region. Tariff relief could provide these units with better access to the US market and an opportunity to increase the share of Indian products in global supply chains. Especially for generic medicines and API-related products, this framework could form the basis for export stability and long-term contracts. In the machinery and auto components sector, tariff relief is expected to improve cost competitiveness and help establish Uttar Pradeshs units as alternative suppliers. According to experts, the tariff advantage available to India compared to China and other Asian countries could make Uttar Pradeshs industrial regions viable manufacturing and sourcing destinations for US companies. The joint statement has expressed commitment regarding imports and technical cooperation in semiconductor inputs, data centre hardware, cloud infrastructure and advanced digital technologies. This could have a direct impact on Uttar Pradeshs emerging IT, electronics and data centre ecosystem, especially in Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway region. Clarity in tariffs and technical cooperation is expected to improve the cost structure of data centre projects in the state and accelerate investment decisions. Uttar Pradesh is already attracting large-scale data centre investments, and this framework could help connect these projects to the global technology supply chain. The India-United States tariff joint statement clearly records that protection of farmers interests will remain paramount in sensitive sectors such as agriculture, dairy, grains, millets, spices, poultry and genetically modified food. According to the document, the process of market opening will be kept phased, limited and balanced, so that import liberalisation does not adversely impact local farmers, livestock rearers and small producers. For an agriculture-dominant state like Uttar Pradesh, this provision holds special significance, where a large population is directly or indirectly dependent on farming, dairy production and animal husbandry. The statement emphasises regulatory control, quality standards and protection of domestic production capacity by keeping these sectors outside full tariff exemption or extensive import liberalisation. This indicates that while enhancing trade balance, there will be no compromise on food security and rural livelihoods. February 09 : Lucknow/Greater Noida: Uttar Pradesh is taking continuous concrete steps under the Yogi government to make the state a major textile and apparel export hub in the country. In this direction, the apparel park being developed in the Yamuna expressway industrial area is proving to be a milestone in the states industrial landscape. This project is not only attracting investment, but is also generating large-scale employment opportunities for youth. The authority is developing the apparel park on 175 acres of land in the Yamuna expressway industrial area. A total of 173 industrial plots of various sizes have been planned, which are being allotted to units associated with the apparel and textile sector. As of January 22, 2026, under the apparel park scheme, 156 plots have been allotted so far, while only 17 plots are vacant. Lease deeds have been executed in favour of 106 units and possession has been handed over to 89 investors. These figures clearly indicate that investors confidence in the Yogi governments ease of doing business model is continuously strengthening. Projects in the apparel park are now rapidly taking shape on the ground. Under the scheme, checklists have been issued to 118 units so far, while building maps of 39 units have been approved. Construction work has started in 15 units. The government has sought action plans from all allottees in accordance with the DPR so that projects can be implemented on the ground within the stipulated timeline. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths vision is to give Uttar Pradesh a strong position on the global export map through ODOP and textile policy. The apparel park is expected to provide thousands of direct and indirect jobs, increase exports of ready-made garments and textiles, and provide a new platform for MSMEs and startups. Under the apparel park, 17 plots with an area of 33.5 acres are still pending for allotment. Due to partial land unavailability, land acquisition proceedings are in progress and instructions have been given to complete it soon. With the Yamuna expressway, international airport, better connectivity and industry-friendly policies, Uttar Pradesh is emerging as the first choice for investors. The apparel park is a strong example of this, which is seen as realizing the Yogi governments vision based on development, employment and exports on the ground. February 09 : Lucknow: The Budget Session of the State Legislature will begin from 9 February (Monday). Prior to this, an all-party meeting was held on Sunday under the chairmanship of Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana. Chief Minister and Leader of the House Yogi Adityanath also participated in the meeting. While requesting that the proceedings of the House be conducted smoothly, he urged the leaders of opposition parties to raise issues related to the public in the House and, through healthy discussion on these issues, cooperate with the government in accelerating the development of the state. In this all-party meeting organized at the Vidhan Bhavan regarding the conduct of the Assembly session, Leader of the House Yogi Adityanath said, There should be healthy discussion in the House. Healthy discussion leads to the development of the state and the resolution of public problems. As public representatives, there should be smooth discussion in the House on every issue related to public interest. All members should ensure that no kind of disruption arises in the conduct of the House. Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana also sought the cooperation of all members for the smooth functioning of the House. The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, Leader of the Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey, Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party President and Cabinet Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar, Nishad Party President and Cabinet Minister Dr. Sanjay Nishad, Congress leader Aradhana Mishra Mona, Nishad Partys Ramesh Singh, Lok Dals Rajpal Baliy an, Apna Dals Ramnivas Verma, among others. February 09 : Lucknow: The Budget Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature for the year 2026-27 will commence from 9 February. On the first day of the session, Monday, the address of the Honorable Governor Anandiben Patel will be delivered before both Houses of the Legislature, namely the Vidhan Sabha and the Vidhan Parishad. On 10 February, condolence will be expressed over the demise of current and former members of the House. The proceedings of the House are proposed to continue until 20 February. On 11 February (Wednesday), Finance Minister Suresh Khanna will present the Budget for the financial year 2026-27. After this, discussion will be held on the Governors Address in the form of a motion of thanks. The House will function regularly until 13 February. On 14 and 15 February, being Saturday and Sunday respectively, the sittings of the House will remain adjourned. From 16 February, the proceedings of the House will commence again. Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana has requested all members to cooperate for the successful conduct of the House. At the same time, the Leader of the House and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has appealed to all members to place issues related to the public in the House and, through healthy discussion, extend cooperation to the government in order to give momentum to the development of the state. New Delhi, Feb 9 : After ties with the Afghan Taliban soured, Pakistan has been hunting for disgruntled elements and recruiting them into the Jaish-e-Mohammed. Indian agencies have learnt that the ISI has been scouting for disgruntled elements from the Afghan Taliban and other breakaway factions. The idea is to recruit such persons and take them into the Jaish-e-Mohammed. An official said that the strategy was to get these persons to infiltrate India directly from Afghanistan. Moreover, the ISI also seeks to break the Afghan Taliban, with which it is having immense problems currently. The new strategy has been devised because the terrorists waiting at the launchpads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are finding it impossible to infiltrate into India. Security is at an all-time high following the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. Another official said that this strategy has been used in the past. Many who had fought against the Soviet forces in the 1980s were directed into Kashmir after the end of fighting. After the Soviets withdrew in 1989, scores of Afghan fighters were sent to Kashmir to wage a battle against India. According to Intelligence agencies, this time the push would be much harder as the desperation is growing. There are hardly 50 terrorists of Pakistani origin who remain in Kashmir. This is not a good enough number to carry out a sustained attack. Moreover, the security forces have launched a massive operation aimed at hunting down the remaining terrorists. The security forces have been able to achieve a lot of success, and the number of terrorists of Pakistani origin has fallen to 50 from the 600 there were in 2019. These developments have set the alarm bells ringing within the ISI circles. Both the ISI and Pakistan Army are under immense pressure from outfits such as the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba over infiltrations. They are asking why the army is unable to facilitate the infiltrations. They too realise that if they want to survive, they have to battle harder in Kashmir and with the infiltration falling to nearly nil, they will not be able to achieve their goal. An Intelligence Bureau official said that there are currently at least 1,500 terrorists waiting at the launchpads in PoK. Every attempt to infiltrate that has been made since the Indian armed forces carried out Operation Sindoor has failed. Among the 50 terrorists who remain in Jammu and Kashmir, it has been learnt that many of them had fought in Afghanistan against the NATO forces. Many veterans from Afghanistan have been recruited into the Jaish-e-Mohammed, and they have been sent into the Valley, an official said. During the recent encounter that led to the elimination of Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, it was found that two of them had fought in Afghanistan before being recruited into the outfit and then sent into Kashmir. The ISI is also looking to drive a wedge within the Afghan Taliban in a bid to make it weaker. Pakistan has not been able to get around with the Taliban, and this has led to a lot of frustration. Both sides are constantly in battle with each other, and it is the Pakistan security forces who have been facing losses. Getting the Taliban on board or weakening it is a major priority for Pakistan at this moment. On one hand, it wants to stop the fighting, and on the other, there is the Chinese pressure, another official said. The Chinese are insistent that Afghanistan is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Project 2.0. Cash-strapped Pakistan is desperate for this project to take place. The Chinese have told the Pakistanis to bring the Afghan Taliban on board at any cost if the project has to go through. This has led to immense pressure in Islamabad, and hence it feels the need to weaken the Taliban and then get them on board, the official added. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, responding to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's remarks on Uniform Civil Code (UCC), criticized the BJP's repeated pitch for bringing a pan-India legislation, stating that the government has resorted to its periodical promotion and never took concrete steps and held consultations for its implementation despite a decade in power. "The idea aligns with what is in the Bharatiya Janata Party's manifesto and is connected to their ideology. But again, since 2014, their government has been in power, and repeatedly, whenever they try to divert attention, they bring up the topic of the UCC. Everyone is saying that there should be discussions with large stakeholders, talk to the people, talk to the stakeholders, gain their confidence, and work in that direction. Only then can a decision be made. But instead, every other year, they just make the statement that the UCC is a good idea," she told IANS. Chaturvedi's remarks came in response to statements made by Bhagwat during the second day of the organisation's lecture series, '100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons', held to mark the RSS centenary. Bhagwat had emphasised that the UCC should be implemented only after consulting everyone and ensuring that it does not create divisions in society. "There are about 1.25 crore Hindus in Bangladesh. If they decide to stay there and fight, all Hindus across the world will help them," Bhagwat said. On the UCC, he added, "It shouldn't create divisions. In Uttarakhand, three lakh suggestions were made, and after talking to all stakeholders, the act was passed." BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal welcomed Bhagwat's statements, saying, "Based on what Mohan Bhagwat has said, and considering that the UCC can certainly make a significant contribution to the country's social and economic development, he also stated that everyone's consensus should be taken on this serious issue. So, certainly, the UCC will be implemented across the country based on the general consensus of all people, and what he has said is in view of the ground realities of the nation." The remarks have reignited debate over the long-pending UCC, highlighting differing perspectives between political parties on the approach and pace of its implementation. While BJP leaders stress the potential social and economic benefits, critics caution that meaningful consultations with stakeholders and public consensus remain essential before taking concrete steps. Kolkata, Feb 9 : The grim picture of the under-utilization of budgetary allocation for midday meal scheme in West Bengal became evident from a particular annexure document of the interim (vote on account) budget, presented by the West Bengal Minister of State for finance (independent charge), Chandrima Bhattacharya, on the floor of the Assembly, last week. For the ongoing financial year of 2026-27, the total budgetary allocation for midday meals in the state was Rs 1,673.12 crore. However, as per the revised estimates for 2025-26, only Rs 320.01 crore (just 19.12 per cent) will be utilized till March 31, 2026. As per the same budget document annexure, the pictures were equally pathetic for the two previous financial years of 2024-25 and 2023-24. In the previous financial year of 2024-25, the budgetary allocation for midday meal was Rs 2,299.30 crore. However, the actual utilization during the fiscal year under review was just Rs 241.96 crore (10.52 per cent. Before that, during the financial year of 2023-24, the budgetary allocation for midday meals in West Bengal was Rs 2,377 crore. However, the actual utilization during the fiscal year under review was just Rs 515.04 crore (Rs 21.66 per cent). This means that the average percentage utilization of the midday meal budgetary allocation for the three financial years combined is just 16.96 percent. Probably, keeping the low percentage utilization is the mind; the West Bengal government has reduced the budgetary allocation under this head for the financial year of 2026-27 to Rs 1,150.90 crore, much lower than the corresponding figures in 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26. "However, this budgetary allocation of Rs 1,150.90 crore midday meal for 2025-27 might not be the final figure and the same might be revised after the new state cabinet presents the full budget after the Assembly elections slated this year," said a state finance department official. In June 2025, the Union government expressed concern over sharp decline in the number of students availing the midday meal schemes. The Union government's Department of School Education and Literacy had also sought report from West Bengal government in the matter, stating this as the prime reason for increasing school dropouts in the state. Moradabad, Feb 9 : AIMIM's Uttar Pradesh president Shaukat Ali stirred controversy with a remark suggesting a new slogan on having children: 'Hum Do, Hamare Do Darjan (We two, our two dozen)'. Shaukat Ali, the state chief of Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM, made the statement while addressing a public meeting in Moradabad on Sunday evening. His comments on population growth and community strength have triggered sharp reactions. During the gathering, Ali claimed that he has eight children, while his elder brother has 16. He said he would encourage Muslims to have as many children as possible. "We will tell all Muslims to have as many children as possible. When Allah is giving, take it. Keep taking it as long as He keeps giving. Some people in the country are worried that our population is increasing. But if the population increases, the country will become stronger," he said. Drawing a comparison with China, Ali added, "China has more population, they are stronger. So, if our population increases, then our country will become stronger. I will say to have 'Hum Do, Hamare Do Dozen.' Then why are people having a problem with our population?" He further stated that he would also appeal to Hindus to have more children. "I will also request Hindu brothers to give birth to 14 children so that our country becomes stronger," he said. Ali also stated that India is a young country and questioned why population growth is being viewed negatively. "Our country is the youngest country in the world. Then why do people have a problem? The people who are saying this are the ones who are not marrying," he added. Apart from the population-related remarks, Ali launched a strong attack on the Samajwadi Party during the same event. Naming former cabinet minister Kamal Akhtar, he alleged that Akhtar was involved in selling liquor in Moradabad. "Everyone knows whose ghazal bar it was here. He himself sells liquor, and then he accuses us of being the B-team of the BJP," Ali said. Ali also made controversial statements on mob lynching and alleged harassment of Muslims. He claimed that even women associated with Hindu organisations had started misbehaving with Muslims. "If we talk about Moradabad, several hundred madrasas have been shut down here. Our madrasas are called dens of terrorism. The veils of our girls are being pulled off in public. Mob lynching is being carried out in the name of meat. We are not even safe while travelling on trains and buses. Our beards are being pulled out," he said. He further alleged that earlier only men used to misbehave, but now women were also involved. "Earlier, men used to misbehave with us, but now women are also behave badly with Muslim women. We have not started this. We have always considered them as big brothers," he said. Ali also responded to allegations that AIMIM functions as the 'B-team' of the BJP. "People accuse us of being the B-team of the BJP. I am a Muslim and the one accusing me is also a Muslim," he added. By James Pomfret and Jessie Pang HONG KONG, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Hong Kong's most vocal China critic, media tycoon Jimmy Lai, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in jail, ending the city's biggest national security case that has fueled global concerns about Beijing's clampdown on freedoms in the ex-British colony. Lai's sentence on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one for publishing seditious materials ends a legal saga that has lasted nearly five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 78-year-old British citizen had denied all the charges against him, telling the court he was a "political prisoner" facing persecution from Beijing. Lai, founder of the feisty and now shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was first arrested in August 2020 and was convicted last year. His sentence was within the harshest penalty tier for offences of a "grave nature", reflecting the fact that he was the driving force behind "persistent" foreign collusion conspiracies, the three judges said in announcing their verdict. They cited prosecution evidence that the conspiracies had sought sanctions, blockades and other hostile acts from the U.S. and other countries while involving a web of individuals including Apple Daily staff, activists and foreigners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six former senior Apple Daily staffers, an activist and a paralegal were also sentenced to jail terms ranging from six to 10 years. "In the present case, Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence," the judges said. 'EVIL DEEDS WERE BEYOND MEASURE' The U.S., Britain, Australia, the European Union, Japan and Taiwan expressed concerns about the impact of the sentencing. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the sentence "unjust and tragic", saying it showed the lengths to which China would go to silence advocates of basic freedoms in Hong Kong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "... Mr. Lai and his family have suffered enough. The United States urges the authorities to grant Mr. Lai humanitarian parole," Rubio said in a statement, echoing similar calls from Britain and U.N. rights chief Volker Turk. Britain will "rapidly engage further on Mr Lai's case", foreign minister Yvette Cooper said. Britain also announced an expansion of the visa route for Hong Kong residents wanting to move to the UK. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London urged Britain to "respect China's judicial sovereignty and stop interfering in Hong Kong's rule of law and China's internal affairs". The spokesperson also said Britain should "stop shielding criminals". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, under China's State Council, said the sentence was "a solemn and powerful declaration that whoever dares to challenge the law on safeguarding national security will be severely punished". Hong Kong's leader John Lee said: "(Jimmy Lai) has committed numerous heinous crimes, and his evil deeds were beyond measure." Lai's trial has drawn criticism from global leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, spotlighting a years-long national security crackdown in the China-ruled Asian financial hub, following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Those concerns partly reflected Lai's long-standing international profile as a pro-democracy critic of China's Communist Party leadership and his extensive political connections, particularly among U.S. Republicans - ties that prosecutors cited during the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the height of the 2019 protests, Lai met then-U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington. Last year Trump appealed directly to Chinese President Xi Jinping to free Lai. Beijing in 2020 imposed the national security law in Hong Kong, saying it was necessary to stabilise the city after months of sometimes violent unrest. 'HE'S GOING TO PASS AWAY IN PRISON' Lai's friends and supporters say he is in frail health with diabetes and high blood pressure, and should be freed. Lai's son, Sebastien, said the sentence was "devastating for our family" and marked the "total destruction" of Hong Kong's legal system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Much more needs to be done and quickly because, if not, he's going to pass away in prison," Sebastien Lai, also a British citizen, later told Reuters in London. He also urged Britain to pause its push to reset relations with China. Hong Kong police played down concerns about Lai's health. The head of the force's national security department, Steve Li, said Lai's health concerns had been "exaggerated". Beijing and Hong Kong officials say Lai has received a fair trial and that all are treated equally under a national security law they say has been vital to restoring order to the city. Dozens of Lai's supporters queued for several days to secure a spot in the courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I feel that Mr. Lai is the conscience of Hong Kong," said a man named Sum, 64, who was in the queue. Lai's lawyer, Robert Pang, declined to comment when asked whether Lai would appeal, saying he has 28 days to do so. (Reporting by James Pomfret, Jessie Pang; Additional reporting by Andrew MacAskill in London, Kiyoshi Takenaka in Tokyo, Ben Blanchard in Taipei and Sudip Kar-Gupta in Brussels and Emma Farge in Geneva; Writing by Greg Torode; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Michael Perry, Thomas Derpinghaus and Gareth Jones) New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the second time on Monday after the Opposition members refused to maintain silence and continued with their relentless sloganeering. Krishna Prasad Tenneti, sitting on the Chair, tried to advise the Opposition MPs to sit at their places and let the House carry on with the proceedings; however, the leaders continued to create a ruckus by raising slogans. As Congress parliamentarians urged the Chair to let Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi deliver his speech, Tenneti refused, stating that the House will follow the list of business, according to which party's MP Shashi Tharoor will be the first speaker on the Union Budget discussion. When he asked if Gandhi would want to speak on the Union Budget, the Opposition MPs denied. Tenneti asked the Congress MP to go ahead with his speech, to which Tharoor replied that he would "leave it to the LoP". When the din did not fade, Tenneti adjourned the House till 2 p.m. Earlier in the day, just minutes after the Question Hour started, Speaker Om Birla suspended the Lok Sabha session until noon because Opposition members refused to stop their slogan chanting. Members of the Congress party requested that Speaker Birla allow Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi to address the House. The Speaker responded that all members would be given a chance to speak according to the rules after the Question Hour. He noted that Gandhi could raise his concerns during the upcoming debate on the Union Budget as well. However, due to the continued disruption from the members, he chose to adjourn the session. Gandhi was unable to finish his speech during the Motion of Thanks for the President's Address the previous week, as he was not allowed to mention the "unpublished book" of former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane (Retd.). Lucknow, Feb 9 : The Budget Session of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly commenced on Monday with Governor Anandiben Patel's address to the joint sitting of the House, even as members of the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) created an uproar and raised slogans against the government. Soon after proceedings began, SP MLAs stood in the House holding placards with anti-government messages and chanted "Governor Go Back". Despite the protests, the Governor continued her address without interruption. Amid the commotion, SP MLA Pallavi Patel remained seated and did not join the protest, despite being urged by party colleagues. Meanwhile, SP MLA Atul Pradhan from Sardhana raised issues related to the statue of Ahilyabai Holkar. The placards displayed by SP members carried slogans such as "Destruction in the name of development," "No medicine, no facilities in hospitals," "No hearing for the poor," "PDA will end BJP's rule," and "SIR is a conspiracy". As part of a pre-planned protest, SP MLAs continued chanting "Go back, go back" throughout the Governor's address. Addressing the House amid the disruption, Governor Anandiben Patel said that nearly six crore people in Uttar Pradesh have been lifted out of poverty due to the state government's efforts. Separately, SP MLA Zahid Beg also staged a protest in the Assembly complex, holding a placard over issues related to the SIR and Form-7. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath told media persons that the state's economic survey would be tabled in the House following the Governor's address. He said this was the first time a state government was presenting its economic achievements in such a comprehensive manner. The Chief Minister claimed that Uttar Pradesh had emerged from backwardness and assumed a strong position in the Indian economy. Prior to the start of the session, Samajwadi Party MLAs and MLCs also staged a protest near the statue of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh within the Assembly premises, raising slogans against the BJP-led government. --IANS skp/ New Delhi, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday and held delegation-level talks, discussing bilateral issues. Earlier in the day, Patrick Herminie, who is on a State visit to India, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also called on Patrick Herminie on Monday and lauded his support towards advancing Vision MAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Following the meeting, EAM Jaishankar in a post on X wrote, "Delighted to call on President Dr Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing Vision MAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM Narendra Modi later today will open new vistas for our cooperation." Patrick Herminie on Sunday arrived in New Delhi on Sunday after concluding his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport. In a statement shared on X, Jaiswal stated: "President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles arrived in New Delhi after productive engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, where he met key stakeholders, including in the fields of governance, industry, coastal management and health sector". "He was warmly received by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel at the airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," he added. Herminie arrived in India on Thursday for a five-day State visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his visit to Mumbai, he met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and the two leaders discussed various issues, especially port-led development, coastal management and promising opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Maharashtra and Seychelles. "Maharashtra welcomes Seychelles ! Extremely happy to welcome the beautiful country Seychelles' President Hon'ble Dr. Patrick Herminie, along with the Ministers at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. Extended my warm wishes to HE and the people of Seychelles for 50th year of independence celebrations and for 50th year of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, this year!" CM Fadnavis had posted on X. "Had a great interaction on varied subjects especially port led development, coastal management and promising opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Maharashtra and Seychelles. I also welcome the Hon Ministers: Mr. Barry Faure- Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Pierre Laporte - Minister for Finance Ms. Veronique Laporte- Minister for Transport Mrs. Amanda Bernstein- Minister for Tourism and Culture," he added. On February 6, Herminie attended the India-Seychelles Business Forum organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in Chennai. In his speech, he highlighted priority sectors for collaboration, including digital technologies, renewable energy, tourism, higher education, and electric mobility, according to the statement released by FICCI on X. In a post on X, FICCI stated, "As part of the Forum, a dedicated CEOs' Roundtable was also conducted, where leading Indian industry members interacted directly with the Hon'ble President and the accompanying ministerial delegation from Seychelles." -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text New Delhi, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected deeply with students from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, in a lively and culturally rich segment during the second episode of the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, on Monday. The multi-location interaction, which also featured students from Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Devmogra (Gujarat), and Guwahati (Assam), turned into a memorable exchange when Raipur students welcomed the Prime Minister with traditional Chhattisgarhi snacks, creating an atmosphere of warmth and familiarity amid discussions on exam preparation and life skills. The session began on a joyful note as students offered "Thethri", a crispy deep-fried sweet made from flour, and "Khurmi", a savoury treat prepared with gram flour, jaggery, and semolina, typically savoured during Diwali. PM Modi tasted the delicacies with genuine appreciation, personally sharing pieces of Khurmi with others present. He noted that Khurmi bears resemblance to Maharashtra's 'chakli' but carries a distinct Chhattisgarhi sweetness from jaggery. Student Aditi Upadhyay captured the delight of the moment by feeding everyone by hand, describing the experience as truly amazing and family-like. The conversation soon moved to practical guidance for board exam challenges. When asked about post-exam vacation plans, PM Modi encouraged students to start exploring their own surroundings first. He suggested creating detailed lists of unseen places in their tehsil, district, and state, and approaching travel with a curious student's mindset -- observing crowds, conversations, and everyday experiences in train compartments to truly appreciate India's incredible diversity. Addressing exam anxiety and restlessness from incomplete revision, the Prime Minister reassured students that no knowledge is ever truly lost; it remains stored somewhere in the mind. He advised sitting calmly before the paper, trusting their preparation, and letting go of worry. To gain mastery over subjects, he drew a parallel to an athlete's journey, stressing consistent daily practice, routine, and learning through trial and error. He shared a simple yet powerful technique: befriend and teach weaker classmates in subjects like math, as explaining reinforces one's own understanding through focused effort. A Taekwondo enthusiast sought advice on balancing studies and sports. PM Modi emphasised that education remains essential for personal and social life and should never be underestimated. He urged developing talents fully while never neglecting academics, explaining that real strength comes from excelling in both areas and avoiding the misconception that prowess in one excuses weakness in the other. A student, Somya Verma, asked what qualities the Prime Minister expects from children as future leaders. PM Modi replied that leadership begins internally; decide firmly what needs to be done and commit to acting, even if alone. When one starts with oneself, leadership emerges naturally. He illustrated with a simple act -- if you pick up garbage while walking, those around you feel inspired to follow, proving action creates leaders. He clarified that leadership is not confined to elections, parties, or speeches; it lies in the ability to explain ideas to others -- not impose them. To explain effectively, one must first understand deeply. Those who understand can guide; those who do not cannot. Somya later reflected that PM Modi's words showed leadership qualities that arise from taking responsibility. She described the encounter as a dream come true, feeling immensely lucky to meet the Prime Minister in such a personal way -- an experience rare in life. PM Modi noted that Pariksha Pe Charcha transcends board exam preparation. It serves as an open platform where questions about exam experiences, thoughts during tests, stress, expectations, and broader life concerns flow freely. He said students' queries naturally touch his heart, mirroring the many thoughts constantly running through young minds across the country. The Raipur segment beautifully blended cultural pride with motivational insights, reinforcing the programme's aim to ease exam stress through positivity, confidence, and practical life lessons. Students expressed profound joy, calling the interaction unforgettable and deeply personal. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Khalistan issue has always remained an irritant between India and Canada. Ties soured between the two countries when Justin Trudeau was the prime minister of Canada and he has been accused of being an open Khalistan backer. Trudeau even made reckless allegations against India following the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Post Trudeauas ouster, ties were reset and both nations agreed to work on the Khalistan issue. A recent development which has the Khalistani elements worried is the visit to Canada by National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval. He held successful talks with Nathalie Drouin, Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Canadian Prime Minister. The outcome was very fruitful an official said, while adding that this resetting of ties will surely be a major headache for the Khalistani terrorists. They have used Canada as a base for long to launch attacks against India. From Canada, they have issued threats to the government of India. Moreover all the masterminds of the targeted killings in Punjab are based in Canada. Further these elements have also been running drug cartels while facilitating the smuggling of drugs, arms and ammunition into Punjab. One of the highlights of the meeting between the NSAs was sharing of real-time Intelligence. The main focus would be the Khalistanis, the official said. He also said that this sharing of real time Intelligence would also cover drugs, cyber threats and Sikh extremism. Another official said that this is probably one of the most constructive meetings in recent times. The Khalistan issue is really getting out of hand. Moreover this meeting comes at a time when the ISI has set in motion a major plan to revive the Khalistan movement in Punjab. Recent Intelligence inputs have suggested that the ISI has readied an army of Khalistanis and is waiting to infiltrate them into Punjab. Moreover, the narcotics trade has shot up to fund this movement. Currently a soft push is being made whereby posters of the Khalistan flag are being put up in remote places. Over a period of time, the ISI plans to lure the youth with cash to join the movement. The meeting of the NSAs would derail these plans to a large extent, another official said. While the ISI runs the network, the largest command centre is in Canada, followed by the United Kingdom. Another important aspect of this meeting was rebuilding trust. Trudeauas reckless allegation that Indiaas Intelligence agencies were involved in the killing of Nijjar had led to a diplomatic stand off. Canada had never viewed the Khalistan issue as extremism. It let it thrive under the garb of free speech. The Doval-Drouin meeting changes this aspect. Both sides have agreed that the Khalistan issue will be viewed as terrorism and organised crime and not free speech. This is a major development, the experts say. India and Canada would share real-time information about these elements and this would make operations for these elements extremely hard. NSA Doval raised the issue of fund raising by the Khalistanis. They have been raising funds in the name of charities and many Gurdwaras in Canada have been used for that. He further spoke about the need to cooperate on breaking the narco cartels as the proceeds raised from this trade are funding the Khalistani movement. India has been able to convince Canada about the dangers the movement poses not jut to India, but Ottawa as well. The Khalistanis have been vocal online and have used social media platforms to push their agenda. They have also used discreet methods to push their agenda. With cooperation and real-time Intelligence sharing these activities would come down drastically, officials say. The Khalistani elements have sensed these developments and hence were hunting for newer countries such as Italy and Germany. These moves would be very hard since it would involve dismantling the network in Canada that it has set over the last several decades. The NSA meet took place at a time when Canadian Prime Minster Mark Carney prepares for a visit to India in March. During his visit and meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ties would be further cemented between the two nations. An Intelligence Bureau official said that the headache for the Khalistanis begins now. He however warned that these elements would attempt a misadventure in Punjab and hence a high-alert and vigil has to be maintained. Seoul, Feb 9 : South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her party's victory in an election, wishing for Japan's further development under her leadership and hoping to meet her in South Korea via shuttle diplomacy. Lee posted the congratulatory message on social media platform X after Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party secured a two-thirds majority in the 465-member House of Representatives in snap elections held Sunday, Yonhap News Agency reported. "I sincerely congratulate you on your election victory," Lee wrote. "I hope Japan will continue to develop further under the prime minister's leadership." Lee said Seoul and Tokyo took the first step toward shaping the next 60 years of bilateral relations during their summit talks in Nara, Japan, in January and expressed hope to further develop bilateral ties. "I hope the two countries will broaden and deepen relations based on trust and friendship," Lee said, adding that he looked forward to welcoming Takaichi to South Korea through the next round of shuttle diplomacy in the near future. The two leaders first held summit talks on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Gyeongju last October, just days after the Japanese prime minister took office. They later held a second summit in Nara, Takaichi's hometown, last month as part of leader-level exchanges known as "shuttle diplomacy." During the talks in Nara, Lee and Takaichi agreed to advance bilateral relations through cooperation in "future-oriented" areas, such as supply chains and artificial intelligence. Lee also floated the idea of holding their next summit in his hometown of Andong. Lee has pledged to pursue a "two-track" approach to diplomacy with Japan by expanding future-oriented cooperation while continuing to address unresolved wartime history issues stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of Korea. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Gandhinagar, Feb 9 : The trade agreement between India and the United States is expected to provide a substantial boost to Gujarat's exports, with medium-term growth in certain sectors projected to increase by 100-150 per cent, officials said on Monday. Gandhinagar, Feb 9 (IANS) The trade agreement between India and the United States is expected to provide a substantial boost to Gujaratas exports, with medium-term growth in certain sectors projected to increase by 100-150 per cent, officials said on Monday. The reduction of US tariffs on Indian goods from 50 per cent to approximately 18 per cent is set to make Indian products significantly more competitive in the American market, generating higher demand. Gujarat, already Indiaas leading export-oriented state under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, is likely to see major benefits across textiles, gems and jewellery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and renewable energy sectors. According to official estimates, aThe textile sector stands to gain the most from this agreement. Lower tariffs will make Gujaratas garments and home textiles far more competitive internationally. It is expected that medium-term exports will increase by 100-150 per cent." Increased exports are anticipated to drive production growth in the stateas key textile clusters and attract new orders from the United States, increasing profitability for manufacturers. The agreement is also expected to provide a significant boost to Suratas diamond industry, the worldas largest diamond polishing hub. Tariff reductions will improve margins, stimulate fresh demand, and compensate for losses incurred due to previously high tariffs. Chemical and pharmaceutical clusters in Bharuch, Vapi, and Ahmedabad are projected to recover from past export declines of around 25-30 per cent. Certain pharmaceutical products will now benefit from zero-duty or low-duty provisions, strengthening Gujaratas position in regulated American markets. Renewable energy, particularly solar manufacturing, is also expected to gain momentum, as exports of solar panels and components become commercially more viable. The agreement is likely to facilitate the entry of handicrafts and traditional artisan products into the US market, supporting rural economies. Officials noted that the surge in exports and industrial activity will directly impact the stateas economy, creating new employment opportunities in MSME units, factories, logistics, and ancillary services. Enhanced industrial output and stronger MSMEs are expected to improve incomes for workers and entrepreneurs, further strengthening Gujaratas economic framework. The interim trade agreement is being seen as a major achievement for Gujaratas industries, positioning the state as a leading player in the global value chain, particularly in high-value markets such as the United States. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Maruti Suzuki India Limited on Monday said it has set a new benchmark in green logistics by dispatching over 5.85 lakh vehicles through railways in 2025, a growth of 18 per cent over 2024. Maruti Suzuki's share of rail mode in outbound logistics has grown exponentially, rising from 5.1 per cent in 2016 to 26 per cent in 2025, significantly reducing carbon emissions, country's oil imports and easing road congestion, according to the automaker. "The year 2025 marks our highest-ever rail dispatch, with over 5.85 lakh units. During the year, we strengthened our green logistic efforts through two landmark events the inauguration of India's largest automobile in-plant railway siding at our Manesar facility, and second was we dispatched vehicles by rail to Kashmir valley through the world's highest railway arch bridge over Chenab River, a first by any automobile manufacturer," said Hisashi Takeuchi, MD and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited. "Our mid-term goal is to increase rail-based vehicle dispatches to 35 per cent by FY2030-31, contributing to India's net-zero ambition by 2070," he added. Since FY 2014-15, Maruti Suzuki has transported over 28 lakh vehicles from 22 destinations servicing over 600 cities pan India through a hub and spoke model. Currently, Maruti Suzuki uses over 45 flexi deck rakes, each with a capacity of carrying around 260 vehicles per trip. In 2025, rail dispatches from Maruti Suzuki's in-plant railway siding at Gujarat and Manesar facility accounted for 53 per cent of the company's total rail dispatches. Maruti Suzuki India Limited has adopted a comprehensive 'Circular Mobility' approach to sustainability, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint across the entire vehicle lifecyclefrom design and production to logistics and end-of-life vehicle (ELV) management It has been at the forefront of promoting railways as a sustainable and efficient mode of vehicle transportation. "Maruti Suzuki India Limited has adopted a comprehensive 'Circular Mobility' approach to sustainability, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint across the entire vehicle lifecyclefrom design and production to logistics and end-of-life vehicle (ELV) management," said Takeuchi. Mumbai, Feb 9 : Actress Sara Ali Khan called mom Amrita Singh her 'biggest blessing' in a sweet birthday note on social media. Sharing some adorable snaps from their family getaways over the years, Sara confessed her love for her mother in the caption, saying, "Happiest Birthday Mommy Jaan...I love you the most in the whole wide world. (sic)" The photographs uploaded by Sara feature her, Amrita, and Ibrahim Ali Khan exploring the world in each other's company. Calling mom Amrita her best travel buddy, Sara added, "Thank God for you...youare our biggest blessing Ma...From the mountains to the desserts and seas (quite literally hehe thank you for being the best travel buddy) Iall do whatever it takes to make you happy." Amrita made her acting debut opposite Sunny Deol in 1983 with "Betaab". After this, she went on to prove herself as one of the leading ladies in Bollywood with movies such as "Mard "(1985), "Chameli Ki Shaadi" (1986), "Naam" (1986), "Khudgarz" (1987), "Thikana" (1987), "Waaris" (1988), "Toofan" (1989), "Dil Aashna Hai" (1992), "Aaina" (1993), and "Rang" (1993), to name just a few. After taking some time off from acting, Amrita returned to the screen with "23rd March 1931: Shaheed" (2002), and continued her cinematic journey with "Kalyug" (2005), "Shootout at Lokhandwala" (2007), "2 States" (2014), "Hindi Medium" (2017), and "Badla" (2019). On the personal front, Amrita was married to actor Saif Ali Khan from 1991 to 2004. They have two children together, daughter Sara Ali Khan and son Ibrahim Ali Khan. Talking about Sara's work lineup, she will next be seen sharing the screen with Ayushmann Khurrana, Rakul Preet Singh, and Wamiqa Gabbi in the forthcoming sequel, "Pati Patni Aur Woh Do". Made under the direction of Mudassar Aziz, "Pati Patni Aur Woh Do" is slated for a theatrical release on May 15. The movie is a sequel to the 2019 drama aPati Patni Aur Woh" featuring Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ananya Panday. Healthy Routine is the Right of every citizen: Chief Minister. Image Source: IANS February 09 : Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated a health camp at the Vidhan Bhavan before the commencement of the Budget Session. The camp has been organized for the members of the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council. Health check-ups are being conducted by doctors from KGMU. On the occasion of the inauguration, the Speaker of the Assembly, Deputy Chief Ministers, Ministers, and public representatives also underwent health check-ups. The Chief Minister stated, "During the Budget Session, the Department of Health and Medical Education has organized this camp for the health examination of all members of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature. The camp will also serve the convenience of the honourable members and others". The Chief Minister emphasized, a healthy routine should be the right of every citizen. The government is working with full commitment in this regard. The Chief Minister advised members to pay special attention to their health despite all ups and downs. He added that every member should maintain a stress-free and open lifestyle, as this will help keep diseases away. The Chief Minister further added, "Every persons opinion is important. When leaders talk about development, doctors talk about health, and experts in their respective fields discuss their subjects, it creates a positive impact on the general public". He urged all members to take advantage of this facility. Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Brajesh Pathak expressed gratitude to everyone. During the inauguration of the health camp, Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana, Chairman of the Legislative Council Kunwar Manvendra Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, Cabinet Ministers Suresh Khanna, Swatantra Dev Singh, Rakesh Sachan, Horticulture Minister Dinesh Pratap Singh, Ministers of State Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh and Baldev Singh Aulakh, KGMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sonia Nityanand, SGPGI Director R. K. Dhiman, and others were present. Dans un contexte politique camerounais marque par des debats recurrents sur la justice, la responsabilite et lengagement citoyen, une recente reflexion attribuee a Maurice Kamto relance la discussion sur le sens profond du combat politique. Luniversitaire et homme politique insiste sur un principe quil juge fondamental : la clarte de la cause defendue. Dans la lutte politique comme sur un champ de bataille, la force, le courage et la domination de la peur viennent de ce pour quoi ou au nom de quoi on se bat. Il faut toujours avoir une claire conscience de la cause dune lutte pour consentir le sacrifice que la conquete impose. A travers ces mots, Maurice Kamto etablit un parallele fort entre la lutte politique et lexigence morale qui laccompagne. Son propos met en avant une idee centrale : lengagement ne peut etre durable sans une comprehension lucide des enjeux poursuivis. Dans un Etat de droit, cette conscience devient un socle essentiel pour orienter les actions individuelles et collectives. Pour de nombreux observateurs, cette pensee sinscrit dans une tradition politique ou la quete de justice ne releve pas uniquement de la confrontation institutionnelle, mais aussi dune discipline personnelle. Le courage evoque nest pas seulement physique ou strategique ; il est presente comme une force interieure nee de la conviction. Dans le paysage camerounais, ou la participation citoyenne et le debat public occupent une place croissante, ce type de discours alimente la reflexion sur la responsabilite des acteurs politiques et des citoyens. La notion de sacrifice, mentionnee dans la citation, renvoie a la realite des choix difficiles que toute lutte politique ou sociale peut impliquer. Au-dela de la figure de son auteur, cette declaration rappelle que la politique reste, avant tout, un terrain de valeurs. Elle pose une question intemporelle : quelle est la cause qui justifie lengagement, et jusquou peut-on aller pour la defendre dans le respect des principes de justice et de legalite ? Maurice Kamto: Clarity of purpose as a moral compass in political struggle In Cameroons evolving political landscape where justice, accountability, and civic engagement remain central themes a recent reflection attributed to Maurice Kamto has reignited debate about the deeper meaning of political commitment. The academic and political figure emphasizes what he views as a foundational principle: clarity of purpose. In political struggle as on a battlefield, strength, courage, and mastery of fear come from what or in whose name one fights. One must always have a clear awareness of the cause of a struggle in order to accept the sacrifice that conquest demands. Through this statement, Kamto draws a powerful parallel between political action and moral discipline. His message suggests that lasting engagement is impossible without a lucid understanding of the goals being pursued. Within a rule-of-law framework, such awareness becomes essential in guiding both individual and collective action. Observers note that this perspective aligns with a political tradition where the pursuit of justice extends beyond institutional confrontation to include personal responsibility. The courage described is not merely strategic; it is portrayed as an inner strength rooted in conviction. In Cameroon, where civic participation and public debate are increasingly prominent, this reflection fuels broader conversations about the responsibilities of both political actors and citizens. The reference to sacrifice underscores the difficult choices inherent in any political or social struggle. Beyond the individual behind the words, the statement serves as a reminder that politics is fundamentally about values. It raises a timeless question: what cause justifies commitment, and how far can one go in defending it while respecting justice and legality? Maurice Kamto, politique camerounaise, justice au Cameroun, engagement citoyen, lutte politique, Etat de droit Cameroun, debat politique Cameroun, responsabilite politique, pensee politique, actualite Cameroun Ange NGO Chennai, Feb 9 : Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay is set to make his electoral debut with a calculated two-constituency strategy, reportedly choosing to contest the forthcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections from Virugambakkam in Chennai and Tiruchy East. Party leaders describe the move as a carefully crafted plan aimed at broadening the party's political footprint while ensuring a strong start for its charismatic founder. According to senior party functionaries, the decision balances urban prominence with regional outreach. Virugambakkam, located in the heart of Chennai's expanding western corridor, is likely to offer Vijay high visibility among urban voters and first-time electors. The constituency is seen as organisationally favourable for TVK, with an active cadre base and growing recognition of Vijay's appeal. Tiruchy East, on the other hand, is viewed as strategically significant for establishing the party's presence in central Tamil Nadu. Leaders believe the region plays a decisive role in shaping statewide electoral trends. By contesting there, Vijay aims to send a clear message that TVK is not merely a Chennai-centric outfit but a party with ambitions across the state. Party insiders revealed that several other constituencies -- including Velachery, Vikravandi and Nagapattinam -- were evaluated before the leadership finalised Virugambakkam. Factors such as voter familiarity, booth-level preparedness and ground mobilisation reportedly influenced the choice. Tiruchy East was selected to complement this urban base with broader regional engagement. TVK leaders said detailed campaign strategies for both seats will be unveiled soon, with Vijay expected to intensify grassroots outreach and public meetings in the coming weeks. The party plans to blend star power with local issues to connect with voters. Insiders also admitted that contesting from two constituencies is a pragmatic and cautious step. With this being Vijay's maiden electoral contest and the ruling DMK's formidable organisational machinery in place, the dual-seat approach is intended to improve his chances of securing a legislative berth. Currently, Virugambakkam and Tiruchy East are represented by DMK legislators A.M.V. Prabhakara Raja and Inigo S. Irudayaraj, setting the stage for what promises to be closely watched contests in both regions. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text New Delhi, Feb 9 : As BJP national president Nitin Nabin is on a visit to Bihar for the first time after assuming the party's top post, leaders of the BJP and its JD(U) on Monday described the development as a 'proud moment' for the state and said preparations were underway in Patna to welcome him. Nabin, who represents the Bankipur seat in the Bihar Assembly, is scheduled to attend the Budget Session of the Bihar Legislative Assembly this week. His visit is being seen as significant, as it will be his first appearance in the state after becoming the BJP's national president. Speaking to IANS, Bihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal said the occasion marked a special day for the people of Bihar. "It is a pleasant day as a son of Bihar, a true pride of the state, and a 45-year-old youth leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party -- the world's largest political party -- is arriving as its National President. The entire city of Patna is beautifully decorated and is ready to welcome him," he said. LJP (Ram Vilas) MP Shambhavi Choudhary also expressed excitement, saying Nabin's visit carried emotional significance as Patna was both his birthplace and his karmabhoomi. "It will be his first visit after becoming National President of the BJP. It's his birthplace and his 'Karmbhumi.' NDA leaders are excited about it, and I expect that he will go back to Delhi with the same excitement," she said. JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan termed Nabin's elevation and visit a matter of pride for the entire state. "It's a proud moment for 14 crore Biharis. In the BJP's history, it has happened for the first time that a leader from Bihar has been given the opportunity to lead the party. He has served Bihar with dedication. We want to congratulate him. I hope under his leadership, the party will progress towards great things and deal with all challenges," he said. Union Minister of State Nityanand Rai said the atmosphere in Patna was celebratory, with BJP workers preparing a grand welcome. "The whole of Patna has been decorated. The most important thing is that BJP workers are celebrating his arrival and preparing for his welcome. The general public is also enthusiastic and ready to receive him. Our respected National President, Nitin Nabin, is a youth leader, and among the youth, there is strong faith in the Bharatiya Janata Party," Rai told IANS. According to party sources, Nabin is expected to meet the Bihar BJP legislature party leader and members at the party office in Patna on Monday evening. On Tuesday, he will attend the Bihar Assembly session for the first time since being elected the BJP chief. Nitin Nabin took over as the BJP's 12th national president on January 20 after being elected unopposed to the top position. His appointment was viewed as a major organisational decision, reflecting the party's push for generational change. In a surprise move earlier, the BJP had appointed the 45-year-old leader as the party's national working president on December 14 last year, signalling a leadership transition within the ruling party. Kochi, Feb 9 : The Kerala High Court on Monday ordered a fresh scientific examination of the gold-coated plates at Sabarimala and directed a special vigilance investigation into the reconstruction of the temple's flagstaff (kodimaram), widening the scope of scrutiny in the long-running Sabarimala gold theft case. Kochi, Feb 9 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Monday ordered a fresh scientific examination of the gold-coated plates at Sabarimala and directed a special vigilance investigation into the reconstruction of the templeas flagstaff (kodimaram), widening the scope of scrutiny in the long-running Sabarimala gold theft case. Acting on a request by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), the court directed that new samples be taken from the gold-coated plates and sent to the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, for detailed analysis. Earlier, samples had been examined by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), whose report, submitted before the Kollam Vigilance Court and later reviewed by the High Court, raised unresolved questions. The court observed that VSSC had been unable to offer clear answers on certain crucial aspects, prompting the need for a fresh examination at BARC. The renewed testing aims to establish whether the plates were altered in any manner and to determine the actual quantity of gold present, providing scientific evidence central to the investigation. The court clarified that the order was interim in nature and directed the SIT to proceed with sample collection after the temple reopens for the monthly 'puja (worship)' next week. Simultaneously, the High Court ordered a swift vigilance probe into the 2017 reconstruction of the Sabarimala flagstaff, carried out during the tenure of the UDF-led Devaswom Board. At the time, the Board was headed by the late Prayar Gopalakrishnan, a former Congress MLA, his party colleague Ajay Tharayil and CPI(M) leader Raghavan among its members. The court noted that ambiguity persists regarding the gold received as donations for the project and said clarity must be established. It also left open the option of registering the matter as a separate case, if warranted. The replacement of the flagstaff had earlier fallen within the SITas ambit. The investigation gained momentum after a ceremonial vehicle (vaji vahanam) linked to the old flagstaff was found in the temple Tantri's residence and was later produced in the court. Officials involved in the replacement process were subsequently questioned. The High Court had earlier directed that events between 1998 and 2025 be probed in four distinct phases. While the old flagstaff was dismantled and a new one installed in 2017, the ceremonial vehicle removed from it was handed over to Tantri Kandarar Rajeevar. Though the Tantri later expressed willingness to return it following the emergence of the gold theft controversy, the former Board reportedly declined to take it back. The case will be taken up again on February 19, as investigations on multiple fronts intensify. New Delhi, Feb 9 : A major security incident was reported from Faridabad district jail, where a 20-year-old terror accused, Abdul Rahman, was killed late Sunday night after being attacked by another inmate, officials said on Monday. Police officials confirmed that the accused was assaulted with a sharp object inside the jail premises, leading to his death. According to police spokesperson Yashpal Singh, Abdul Rahman was attacked by a fellow inmate identified as Arun Chaudhary, a Kashmiri youth lodged in the same jail. "The incident took place late Sunday night when the accused prisoner attacked Abdul Rahman on the head with a sharp object. He sustained serious injuries and died," Singh said while confirming the incident over the phone. Abdul Rahman was a resident of Milkipur in Uttar Pradesh and had been arrested on March 2, 2025, near Pali village with two hand grenades in his possession. Security agencies had alleged that he was involved in a conspiracy to carry out a terror attack in Ayodhya. During his arrest, investigators recovered several videos from him, which reportedly contained details related to the Ram Temple. The arrest of Abdul Rahman was carried out through a joint operation by the Gujarat Special Task Force (STF) and the Haryana STF. Officials had stated at the time that the two hand grenades recovered from him were successfully defused, preventing any potential threat. Following his arrest, he was lodged in Faridabad jail as the investigation into the larger terror network continued. Police sources said that jail authorities were alerted immediately after the attack. Abdul Rahman was rushed for medical attention, but doctors declared him dead. Following the incident, security inside the jail has been tightened, and senior officials visited the premises to assess the situation. A case has been registered in connection with the murder, and the accused inmate Arun Chaudhary has been taken into custody for further questioning. Police are investigating the motive behind the killing and are also examining whether any lapses in jail security allowed the attack to take place. Authorities have said that a detailed probe is underway and strict action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Monday declined to interfere with the Delhi High Court's refusal to suspend the sentence of expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the custodial death case of the Unnao rape survivor's father. New Delhi, Feb 9 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Monday declined to interfere with the Delhi High Courtas refusal to suspend the sentence of expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the custodial death case of the Unnao rape survivoras father. Taking note that Sengaras criminal appeal against his conviction and 10-year sentence is already listed before the Delhi High Court on February 11, a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant observed that the High Court may be requested to decide the matter on merits on an out-of-turn basis. The Bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, was informed by counsel for the complainant that the victim's side has filed a separate appeal challenging the trial courtas judgment, particularly with respect to the quantum of sentence. However, since there was no reference to the victimas appeal in the impugned Delhi High Court order declining suspension of sentence, the Supreme Court clarified that it was not expressing any opinion on that aspect. Taking note of the overall circumstances, the CJI Kant-led Bench, in its order, requested the Delhi High Court to first take up Sengaras appeal within one week and endeavour to decide the same as expeditiously as possible, preferably within three months. It further observed that if the complainantas appeal and any other connected matters are found to be maintainable, it would be in the interest of justice for all such appeals to be heard and decided together. The apex court added that if hearing the appeals together requires a change in the composition of the HC Bench, the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court may pass appropriate administrative orders. Earlier, the Delhi High Court had rejected Sengaras second application seeking suspension of sentence and grant of bail, citing the gravity of the offence, his criminal antecedents and the absence of any new subsequent development. In his special leave petition (SLP) before the apex court, Sengar argued that he had already undergone over seven years and seven months of actual custody and that some co-accused were granted bail after suspension of sentence. Sengar was convicted by a Delhi court in March 2020 for conspiring in the custodial death of the rape survivoras father and was sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. The case relates to an incident in April 2018 when the father of the minor rape victim was allegedly assaulted by Sengaras associates in Unnao. He was arrested the following day on charges of illegal possession of arms and later died in police custody due to multiple injuries. New Delhi, Feb 9 : After RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that the stature of the Bharat Ratna would rise further if it is conferred upon Veer Savarkar, the BJP on Monday backed his remarks and said that awarding the country's highest civilian honour to the freedom fighter would be a proud moment for every Indian. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut said the sentiment expressed by Bhagwat was shared widely across the country. "The sentiment that Mohan Bhagwat has expressed for Savarkar is shared by every Indian. He is even above the Bharat Ratna in stature. If he is given the Bharat Ratna, then it would be a proud moment for every Indian," she said. BJP Rajasthan President Madan Rathore also supported the demand, describing Savarkar as a great nationalist revolutionary who endured immense suffering for India's freedom. "The great nationalist revolutionary Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who struggled immensely to free the country, was sentenced to Kala Pani several times and imprisoned in the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. But even after coming out, he continued his protests. So, he should be given the Bharat Ratna as he was a great leader," Rathore said. BJP MP Dinesh Sharma said Savarkar had placed the nation above himself and deserved to be remembered with reverence. "Veer Savarkar spent his entire life in Kalapani, confined to a small cell. Savarkar was a true nationalist who placed the nation above himself. Since he contributed to India's independence and the British left, we must certainly honour and remember him with reverence as a mark of respect," he said. However, Opposition leaders strongly criticised the idea, questioning the basis for such an award and alleging political motives behind the renewed push. Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh said the statement reflected a personal opinion and added that it was the government's responsibility to decide who should receive national honours. "That may be their personal opinion. Every individual is free to express views in a democracy. But I would say that currently, the Government of India has to decide who gets what and who does not. Meanwhile, the BJP is playing with India's people, ignoring the challenges India is facing, the country's development, prosperity, and sovereignty," he said. Congress MP Imran Masood questioned the grounds for honouring Savarkar with the Bharat Ratna. "That is his opinion, but for what should Savarkar ji receive the Bharat Ratna? For the Two-Nation Theory, or for the so-called 'apologies' that were written? It is the government's responsibility to decide for what purpose it will award him," he said. AIMIM leader Shaukat Ali also reacted sharply, alleging that Savarkar had written apology letters to the British government. "Anything can happen, anything is possible. He wrote apology letters to the British government five times, asking for forgiveness. In a few days, they may even give it to Godse," he said. Samajwadi Party MLA Sachin Yadav adopted a more cautious tone, saying the Bharat Ratna should be awarded to great personalities, but the contributions of others should not be forgotten. "Every great personality should receive the Bharat Ratna, but we also need to see who has not received it so far. Many people played a very important role in the freedom struggle, and we should also remember them," he said. CPI(M) MP John Brittas strongly opposed the proposal, calling it a divisive move. "It would be an unfortunate chapter in the history of India because Savarkar is not known for the freedom movement but for writing apologies to the British. He is known as a father figure of hate and hatred, divisive politics, and polarisation. So it would be an unfortunate day if at all he is bestowed with the Bharat Ratna," Brittas said. Congress MP Pramod Tiwari alleged that national awards had become politicised under the BJP government. "I want to say clearly that the awarding of the Padma Awards has become politicised under the BJP government. If you look at previous lists, about 38 per cent of the awards were given to those states where elections were held. Overall, I want to make it clear that I do not believe Savarkar should be awarded the Padma Award or the Bharat Ratna," he said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said her party has consistently demanded the Bharat Ratna for Savarkar and claimed the BJP was using his name for political gain. "Our position is that Shiv Sena has consistently demanded that Veer Savarkar should be awarded the Bharat Ratna. This was also in our manifesto, and every year when the Bharat Ratna is announced, we keep saying this, but it is ignored. What RSS has said today reflects the long-standing stance of our party, but the BJP only wants to use his name," she told IANS. "But they are using that just for their benefit, as their words and actions do not match," Chaturvedi added. Guwahati, Feb 9 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday raised fresh questions over Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's past travel to Pakistan, citing what he described as a "serious and factual discrepancy" related to visa restrictions and movement beyond permitted areas. Referring to statements made by Gogoi during a press conference earlier in the day, CM Sarma said that a key disclosure had brought new clarity to the issue. According to the Chief Minister, Gogoi acknowledged that Takshashila (Taxila), a historic archaeological site he visited during his Pakistan trip, is not located within Islamabad but falls under Rawalpindi District in Punjab province. "This single fact raises a serious and unavoidable question," CM Sarma said in a post on social media platform X. "If the Pakistan visa explicitly permitted travel only to Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad, how did he visit Takshashila, which lies outside the Islamabad Capital Territory and squarely within Rawalpindi District?" CM Sarma pointed out that under Pakistan's immigration rules, foreign visitors are generally not allowed to travel beyond visa-designated cities without prior or special authorisation from the authorities. "Travel beyond permitted locations without clearance is not allowed. This makes the question simple, factual and legitimate," he added. The Chief Minister questioned who facilitated Gogoi's movement to Rawalpindi District despite the apparent absence of visa clearance for the area. He further stated that the issue gains added significance because Rawalpindi houses the Pakistan Army's General Headquarters (GHQ), described as the nerve centre of the country's military establishment. "This is not a political allegation but a matter of documented geography and immigration norms," CM Sarma said, stressing that clarity was needed in the public domain. He maintained that the questions raised were based on facts placed on record and disclosures made by Gogoi himself. Gogoi, a Lok Sabha MP from Jorhat, on Monday dismissed allegations related to his Pakistan visit, asserting that his travel was academic in nature and fully compliant with the law. However, CM Sarma reiterated that the matter warranted transparent answers, stating that public representatives must be held to the highest standards of accountability when it comes to issues involving national security and foreign travel. -- Syndicated from IANS Hyderabad, Feb 9 : AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday lodged a complaint with Hyderabad police demanding immediate criminal action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma for his "violent video" showing him "shooting Muslims". Lodging a complaint with Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar against Sarma for his "deliberate and malicious acts of outraging the religious feelings of Muslims", the Hyderabad MP accused the Assam Chief Minister of promoting enmity between two religious communities and making imputations which are prejudicial to national integration. The MP posted on X that he had lodged a complaint with the Police Commissioner demanding criminal action against Sarma for "his (now deleted) violent video showing him shooting Muslims". "Unfortunately, genocidal hate speech has become a norm," posted Owaisi. He wrote the Commissioner that for the last several years, Sarma has been continuously making statements against the Muslims community through social media, print media, public speeches and other platforms. Many such speeches are still available in the public domain. "In recent months, the said Chief Minister has deliberately intensified his hate speeches, with a clear and conscious intention to outrage the religious feelings of Muslims and to promote enmity and hatred between Hindus and Muslims, fully knowing that such imputations are prejudicial to national integration and destructive of communal harmony," reads the letter. Owaisi mentioned that a recent video posted by the official X account of the Assam Bharatiya Janata Party on February 7, which was taken down a day later but is still available on social media, depicts CM Sarma portrayed as armed with a firearm and targeting it towards persons very obviously depicted as Muslims, and shooting them. "The said post and video with the imagery used in it and statements like 'point blank shoot' and 'No Mercy' is a deliberate and malicious act intended to outrage the feelings of Muslims, promote hatred and ill-will between religious communities and incite communal violence. The video was posted online and was available throughout India, including within the jurisdiction of this police station. I have viewed it within the jurisdiction of this police station," he wrote. Owaisi urged the Commissioner to take immediate and necessary legal action against Sarma as per the law. February 09 : Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath spoke to media persons on Monday before the start of the budget session. The CM said that the Uttar Pradesh Legislature is starting the budget session from today. This is the 10th budget of our government. CM appealed to all members and said, "The Legislature is an important pillar of democracy. If any member has to raise any issue, then instead of disrupting the proceedings, they should hold a dialogue, because the government believes in dialogue to resolve problems". CM also added, "In accordance with parliamentary traditions, it will start with the Governors address. There are two important agendas in the budget session. First, the Honourable Governors address and second, the general budget. The Governors address is a document of the governments achievements and major action plan, which is dedicated to the public through the House. Today the Governor will deliver the address to the joint House through an address". CM said, the general budget for 2026-27 will be presented on 11 February. After this, there will be a discussion on it. The budget session will run from 9 February to 20 February. CM also informed, "Immediately after the Governors address, the Uttar Pradesh economic survey will also be presented in the House. For the first time, a state government will take this step regarding its economic achievements". Informing about the achievements CM said, "We have rescued UP from BIMARU status and established it as a 'breakthrough' of Indias economy. The representatives and the public also have the right to know all these factors and the journey of UPs economic progress. How much economic progress we have made, what increase has taken place in per capita income in UP, what is the situation of employment generation, how we have established UP as a revenue surplus state continuously for the last five years by managing finances even in adverse circumstances". On all these points, the economic survey report will also be presented in the House. This report will be an important document for presenting data to members and for discussion. CM added by saying, the Legislature is an important pillar of democracy. It runs not by disrupting proceedings, but by dialogue. If any member has to raise any issue, they should hold a dialogue, because the government believes in dialogue to resolve problems. Along with accepting the valuable suggestions of every member, the government is always ready to take necessary steps in the interest of the state while discussing every issue. The CM appealed to the opposition members not to disrupt the proceedings and to avoid unnecessary uproar. CM said, over the last 9 years, new records of proceedings have been established in the Legislature. The budget session will be observed by the state and the country. It will also become a platform for Honourable Members to raise their important issues. The budget session will play a major role in further accelerating the pace of Uttar Pradeshs development. The CM appealed to members of all parties to take forward meaningful discussion on the issues related to the public in the Legislature. During this, both the Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Cabinet Ministers Suresh Khanna, Swatantra Dev Singh and Rakesh Sachan, Minister of State Baldev Singh Aulakh etc. were present. Ulan Bator, Feb 9 : The total number of measles cases in Mongolia has increased to 14,123, the country's National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) said on Monday. The majority of new measles infections were among school-age children who had had only one shot of the measles vaccine, the NCCD said in a statement. In view of this, the NCCD advised parents to protect their children from a potentially severe disease by getting them two doses of the measles vaccine. Measles is one of the worldas most contagious diseases, spread by contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (coughing or sneezing) or breathing the air that was breathed by someone with measles. The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours. For this reason, it is very infectious. One person infected by measles can generate up to 18 secondary infections, Xinhua news agency reported. Measles can affect anyone but is most common in children. Being vaccinated is the best way to prevent getting sick with measles or spreading it to other people. The vaccine is safe and helps your body fight off the virus. Before the introduction of measles vaccine in 1963 and widespread vaccination, major epidemics occurred approximately every two to three years and caused an estimated 2.6 million deaths each year. An estimated 107 500 people died from measles in 2023 a" mostly children under the age of five years, despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine. Symptoms of measles usually begin 10a"14 days after exposure to the virus. A prominent rash is the most visible symptom. Early symptoms usually last 4a"7 days. They include: Running nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks. The rash begins about 7a"18 days after exposure, usually on the face and upper neck. It spreads over about 3 days, eventually to the hands and feet. It usually lasts 5a"6 days before fading. In a retail environment saturated with ads, influencers, and endless content, sustained growth has become increasingly difficult to achieve. That is why the recent performance of Minky Couture is so intriguing. In 2025, the company grew sales by more than 50 percent year over year, outpacing holiday spending trends. January of this year alone saw growth exceed 80 percent compared with the same month last year. In a category crowded with competitors and copycats, those numbers suggest something more durable than a trend. The explanation starts with a simple insight about modern consumers, especially Gen Z. They are not short on options. They are short on trust. Brands that break through today do not just offer something that looks good on screen. They offer something that feels real, both in the product and in the values behind it. Discovery still matters, but belief drives loyalty Like many fast-growing brands, Minky Couture benefits from visibility. People discover it through TikTok, creators they follow, celebrity moments, gift guides, or recommendations from friends. That discovery phase looks familiar. What happens next is what separates the brand from the pack. Advertisement Advertisement Consumers try the product and decide whether it lives up to expectations. In Minky Coutures case, the blankets often exceed them. Customers consistently talk about the softness, weight, and comfort, describing it as something you need to feel to fully understand. That physical experience matters in a digital-first world. It grounds the hype in reality. But liking a product is not enough to explain repeat purchases, advocacy, and year-over-year acceleration. What keeps people engaged is how the brand behaves once the transaction is over. Trust compounds in an attention economy Gen Z consumers are especially sensitive to authenticity. They have grown up watching brands adopt social language without backing it up. As a result, they gravitate toward companies that show consistency over time rather than perfection in messaging. Minky Coutures growth follows a pattern seen in other purpose-driven companies that scaled trust before they scaled volume. Patagonia earned loyalty by aligning environmental values with business decisions, even when it complicated growth. Nike built a global business by tying performance to identity and belief. Salesforce embedded philanthropy into its operating model rather than treating it as a marketing layer. Advertisement Advertisement In each case, growth followed clarity. Customers understood what the brand stood for and believed it would act accordingly. That belief shortened the distance between first purchase and long-term loyalty. They are buying into a brand that behaves predictably and humanely in a marketplace that often feels transactional. At the center of that consistency is founder Sandi Hendry, who set the tone early. From the beginning, the companys commitment to giving was not framed as a differentiator. It was simply part of how the business operated. Minky Couture has donated hundreds of thousands of blankets to families and organizations across the country, with a particular focus on NICUs in all 50 states. These efforts are not tied to launches, limited editions, or social campaigns. They happen because that is how the company works. For consumers inundated with content and causes, this matters. Gen Z does not expect brands to solve everything. They expect them to be honest about what they care about and consistent in how they act. Quiet action builds more credibility than loud declarations. Word of mouth still wins Another reason growth has accelerated rather than slowed is that customers talk. They gift the blankets. They bring them to dorm rooms. They wrap them around friends and family during meaningful moments. Each of those moments introduces the brand to someone new. Advertisement Advertisement Influencers and creators fit into this ecosystem naturally because they are often part of those same moments. Rather than feeling like a paid promotion, sharing the product feels like sharing comfort. That distinction is especially important to younger audiences who are quick to disengage from content that feels overly polished or transactional. When creators share Minky Couture, they are not just showing a product. They are aligning themselves with a mission of care. That alignment helps explain why creator advocacy continues even as platforms and algorithms change. Expanding without losing the thread Minky Coutures recent expansion into new audiences offers another signal of its positioning. The brands move into collegiate licensing, including an agreement with the University of Utah and court sponsorship, introduced the product to students, athletes, and fans in a new context. ESPN has even given a positive review. What makes this notable is not the partnership itself, but how naturally it fits. Comfort is not exclusive to any age group or lifestyle. By anchoring the brand to a feeling rather than a narrow category, Minky Couture has been able to grow into sports, campuses, and younger demographics without feeling out of place. Advertisement Advertisement Other brands have followed similar paths. Lululemon expanded from yoga apparel into a broader lifestyle ecosystem by focusing on how people wanted to feel. Airbnb reframed travel around belonging, allowing it to scale across demographics and use cases. In each case, purpose created flexibility. Why the growth is resonating now The timing matters. Gen Z consumers are navigating economic uncertainty, social pressure, and constant digital noise. In that environment, comfort carries emotional weight. Brands that acknowledge that reality without exploiting it stand out. Minky Coutures growth numbers reflect more than strong marketing. They reflect a pattern of discovery, validation, and trust. People try the product because they see it everywhere. They keep buying because it delivers. They talk about it because they believe in how the company shows up for others. More than 50 percent growth last year. Over 80 percent growth to start this year. In a crowded category, those figures suggest that consumers are rewarding something deeper than novelty. For Gen Z especially, belief is not a bonus. It is a prerequisite. Brands that earn it do not need to shout. Their customers do the talking. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Trashing fake reports that claimed that he was out of Prabhas-starrer 'Spirit' over creative differences with the film's director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, well known actor Prakash Raj has now asked fake news factories to "grow up and have a life". Prakash Raj took to his X timeline to pen a clarification on Monday. He wrote, "To all the toxic #Fakenews peddlersa. On #Spirit the movie. We have not even started shooting for my scenes .. and you whatsup factories speculate stories. Grow up and have a life. #justasking" Prakash Raj's tweet came in the wake of a section of the media claiming that the actor was out of the Prabhas-starrer 'Spirit' due to creative differences with Sandeep Reddy Vanga on the filmas sets. The report claimed that the team of Spirit was now hunting for a replacement for @prakashraaj and that some of the episodes he had acted in would have to be shot again. It may be recalled that director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's eagerly awaited film 'Spirit', featuring actors Prabhas and Triptii Dimri in the lead, went on floors in November last year with a grand pooja ceremony. Several celebrities had graced the ceremony including Mega star Chiranjeevi, who was a special guest at the event. Bhadrakali Pictures, the production house of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, had then taken to its X timeline to share pictures of the launch event. It said, "Indiaas biggest superstar #Prabhasas 'SPIRIT' has been launched with Megastar @KChiruTweets garu as the special guest." Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who was touched by the Megastar's gesture of turning up for the event, had penned a thank you note to Chiranjeevi on X. In it, he had said, "Heartfelt thank you to our MEGASTAR CHIRANJEEVI sir for blessing the event with his presence. Sir..... your gesture is unforgettable a" we all love you @KChiruTweets #SPIRIT MUHURTHAM" The director also posted pictures clicked at the event. However, he was careful to ensure that none of the pictures posted showed Prabhas at the event for fear of revealing the actor's look in the film. On his Instagram page, he published a picture of Prabhas's hands holding the clapboard of the film and wrote, "Dear fansa I thought PRABHAS annaas hands were enough to EXCITE YOU ALL... So, on this muhurath day, Iam posting this for you a" with gratitude and love. SPIRIT." The film has already triggered huge expectations among fans and film buffs. Apart from Prabhas and Tripti Dimrii, the film will also feature Prakash Raj and Vivek Oberoi in pivotal roles. Produced jointly by Bhushan Kumar, Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Pranay Reddy Vanga, 'Spirit', the film will have music by Harshavardhan Rameshwar. Stunts for the film are to be choreographed by well known stunt master Supreme Sundar while production design will be by Suresh Selvarajan. It may be recalled that the makers had initially considered Deepika Padukone for the role of the female lead in the film. However, with disagreements erupting over pay and working hours, the makers chose to cast Triptii Dimri as the female lead. -- IANS mkr/ -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, Feb 9 : The disruption in affordable pharmaceutical imports from India, especially vaccines, has sharply increased Pakistan's financial burden and the country stares at an annual import bill of $1.2 billion by 2031, according to reports. The disruption due to last year's military clashes exposed Islamabad's heavy reliance on foreign manufacturing and donor support for routine immunisation as the country provides 13 vaccines free of cost but with zero domestic vaccine production, reports said. Pakistan Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said a halt in Indian vaccine shipments is already hurting the economy and the situation could be more dire when international support for vaccine procurement ends by 2031. "Pakistan contributes 51 per cent of the cost now, and unless we start local production of vaccines, we will face an annual import bill of $1.2 billion by 2031," the minister was quoted as saying in reports. The minister further said that Pakistan has traditionally procured cheap vaccines for immunisation and other requirements from India through Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI). Gavi served as a global purchasing and funding platform for poorer countries. Pakistan currently imports vaccines at an annual cost of about $400 million, of which around 49 per cent is covered by international organisations operating through GAVI, the minister said. GAVI helped secure millions of COVID19 doses from Indian manufacturers under the COVAX facility. The minister claimed that the government has begun preparatory work to build domestic vaccine production rather than wait for donor support to lapse. With a surging population due to 6.2 births annually the demand for vaccines continues to skyrocket, making the absence of domestic production a serious vulnerability. India halted its supply after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday acknowledged India's support for the development, security needs and aspirations of the archipelagic island nation through Lines of Credit (LoCs), grants, capacity building and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP). New Delhi, Feb 9 (IANS) Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday acknowledged Indiaas support for the development, security needs and aspirations of the archipelagic island nation through Lines of Credit (LoCs), grants, capacity building and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP). During their comprehensive and productive discussions covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations in New Delhi on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Herminie also agreed to work closely in digital transformation. Noting the need for Seychelles to digitise governance for the benefit of its people, India agreed to make efforts on the buildout of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), including digital payments, as per the needs and requirements of Seychelles. According to the 'Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages' (SESEL) adopted by both countries, PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to remaining a reliable partner in national development agenda of Seychelles, with a focus on sustainability, defence, maritime security, capacity building, resilience and inclusive growth. "Reaffirming their commitment to work closely to expand and intensify the people-centric development partnership between the two countries, India announced a aSpecial Economic Packagea of USD 175 million, which will include a blended financial assistance of USD 125 million in Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in Grant assistance for development cooperation projects, capacity building for civilians and defence officials, maritime security, etc," the statement detailed. Herminie expressed gratitude to PM Modi for donating 10 ambulances to Seychelles. The two leaders agreed that recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) by Seychelles would streamline procurement of quality assured essential medicines and facilitate access to affordable medicines through collaboration under Indiaas Jan Aushadhi initiative. The two leaders agreed to implement training programmes and exchange visits in the area of mental health through institutional linkages. Both leaders agreed to support recruitment and deputation of medical specialists, nurses, paramedics and technicians from India to meet the needs of Seychelles. PM Modi and Herminie also agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation in public health through exchange of visits and institutional linkages. The two leaders agreed to work together to support building a new hospital in Seychelles, according to the joint statement. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in renewable energy and climate resilience, including through innovative clean energy solutions. Herminie acknowledged Indiaas support in assisting Seychelles to achieve its renewable energy objectives, according to the joint statement. Seychelles President noted that the solar power projects implemented under the aegis of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with the support of Indian government, has delivered tangible and community-level benefits, especially in the agriculture and healthcare sectors of Seychelles. The two leaders agreed to support the implementation of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems in Seychelles. India agreed to extend technical assistance to Seychelles in managing its power grid and supporting country's transition to a green public transport system. PM Modi and Herminie agreed to explore new avenues of cooperation and projects in energy conservation, sustainability, renewable energy and green mobility sectors to cater to the needs of Seychelles. Chandigarh, Feb 9 : In a horrifying incident, a first-year law student allegedly shot dead a woman classmate in the classroom of a private college in Punjab's Tarn Taran district on Monday, before turning the gun on himself. Chandigarh, Feb 9 (IANS) In a horrifying incident, a first-year law student allegedly shot dead a woman classmate in the classroom of a private college in Punjabas Tarn Taran district on Monday, before turning the gun on himself. While the accused Prince Raj sustained injuries, the victim Sandeep Kaur died on the spot, said police. The incident occurred at Mai Bhago Law College in Usma village moments before the class began. Deputy Superintendent of Police Jagbir Singh told the media that Raj fired at Sandeep in the classroom, leading to her death, and he later shot himself. He said an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the killing. CCTV footage showed Prince, who entered the classroom with a bag on his back, Sandeep Kaur, and another woman student in the classroom. After speaking briefly, they sat on benches at the rear of the classroom. After a few minutes, Raj opened the bag, took out a firearm, pointed it towards Sandeep Kaur and shot her at point-blank range. As she collapsed to the floor, the accused placed the gun to his head and fired. He fell on the ground with grievous wounds. While Sandeep Kaur died on the spot, Raj was critically injured and rushed to the hospital. Authorities are investigating the motive and how the weapon was brought onto campus. Both students were around 19-20 years old. The incident has shocked the local community and is being linked to possible one-sided romantic feelings. Sandeep Kaur's mother alleged Raj had been troubling her, and the matter was reportedly raised with college authorities, too. She questioned how Raj was allowed to walk into the college with a gun. She demanded the strictest action against the accused. Victimas sister Manpreet Kaur told the media: "My sister told him that she is engaged and asked him not to follow her, but he still proposed even after she said no and told him she was already engaged. He was not mentally stable." Tehran, Feb 9 : The secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), Ali Larijani, will lead a delegation to the Omani capital of Muscat on Tuesday, according to the SNSC-affiliated Nour News. Larijani is scheduled to meet with high-ranking Omani officials to discuss regional and international developments, as well as bilateral relations, the news outlet reported Monday. The visit comes after Oman hosted and mediated a round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported. Amid heightened tensions between the two nations, Oman is considered a potential venue for future talks. At a news conference in Tehran on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the date and location for the next round of nuclear negotiations would be determined through consultations with Oman. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday characterized recent indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States as a "step forward," even as Washington moved to tighten the economic noose around Tehran with new sanctions and tariff threats. The talks, mediated by Oman, represent the first high-level contact between the two adversaries since the Israel-Iran conflict last June, during which the United States attacked Iran's key nuclear facilities. While Pezeshkian framed the dialogue as Tehran's "consistent strategy" for peaceful resolution, analysts say the diplomatic opening reflects cautious crisis management rather than any genuine rapprochement. Writing on his X account, Pezeshkian said Iran's nuclear ambitions remain firmly within the "explicit rights" guaranteed by the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. "The Iranian nation has always responded to respect with respect," he wrote, "but it does not tolerate the language of force." Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who led Iran's delegation in Muscat, suggested Washington lacks the "necessary seriousness" to carry the diplomatic process forward. The continued imposition of sanctions on Iran and certain military movements in West Asia, Araghchi said, "raise doubts about the other side's level of seriousness and readiness," pointing to what he described as mixed signals from the United States. He stressed that Iran's peaceful nuclear rights, including uranium enrichment, are non-negotiable and said any progress would depend on the United States treating that issue with seriousness. Iran's missile programme, he added, has never been and will not be on the agenda of talks with Washington, with negotiations focused solely on the nuclear issue. The United States and Israel have said Iran must dismantle its nuclear capacity and curb its ballistic missile programme -- demands analysts say Tehran is unlikely to accept. Jammu, Feb 9 : The Jammu and Kashmir government informed the Legislative Assembly on Monday that there is no proposal under consideration to regularise Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) support staff in the Union Territory. The government said that around 3,800 personnel are currently working purely on a contractual and temporary basis under the MGNREGA across Jammu and Kashmir. The information was shared by the Minister In-charge, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, in a written reply to a question raised by MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz. According to the government, nearly 3,800 MGNREGA support staff are engaged in J&K, and their honorarium has been periodically revised since their initial contractual appointments. Detailing the role of the personnel, the department said MGNREGA staff are deployed at various levels panchayat, block, district, divisional and UT and play a critical role in the grassroots implementation of the rural employment scheme. On the question of regularisation, the government reiterated that all supporting staff under the centrally sponsored MGNREGA scheme are engaged on a temporary, contractual basis, valid only for the contract period or the duration of the scheme, whichever concludes earlier. Their engagement is not against any sanctioned vacancy. "As on date, there is no proposal regarding regularisation of services of staff engaged under MGNREGA," the reply stated. However, the department noted that the honorarium for supporting staff has been raised periodically, with the latest revision issued under Government Order No. 49-RD&PR of 2024 dated January 30, 2024. Under the revised structure, monthly honorarium has been increased as follows: Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS) from Rs 6,806 to Rs 10,209; Technical Assistant from Rs 11,000 to Rs 16,500; MIS Operator from Rs 11,000 to Rs 13,200; and Administrative/Accounts Assistant from Rs 6,806 to Rs 10,209. The government added that any future enhancement of honorarium would be considered in subsequent meetings of the State Employment Guarantee Council (SEGC). Tripoli, Feb 9 : Fifty-three migrants, including two infants, were dead or missing after their rubber boat capsized off the coast of Libya, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said Monday. The vessel, which was carrying 55 people, overturned on Friday north of the city of Zuwara, northwestern Libya. Only two survivors, both Nigerian women, were rescued by Libyan authorities, Xinhua news agency reported. One survivor reported losing her husband in the wreck; the other lost her two children, the IOM said. The boat departed from the western city of Al-Zawiya late on February 5. Survivors told the UN migration agency the craft began taking on water and capsized about six hours into the journey. The IOM said its teams provided emergency medical aid to the women. The Central Mediterranean remains one of the world's deadliest migration routes, with the latest tragedy bringing the 2026 death toll to at least 484. The agency warned that smuggling networks continue to exploit migrants by using unseaworthy vessels and called for "protection-centered" international responses and safer legal pathways for migration. Last November, the IOM said that a rubber boat carrying 49 migrants and refugees capsized off the coast of Libya, leaving 42 people dead. In a statement, the IOM said Libyan authorities carried out a search and rescue operation on November 8 near the Al Buri Oil Field after the vessel, which had departed from the Libyan coastal city of Zuwara, capsized. According to survivors, the boat left Zuwara on November 3. About six hours after its departure, high waves caused the engine to fail, overturning the vessel and throwing all passengers into the sea. After drifting for six days, seven were rescued -- four from Sudan, two from Nigeria and one from Cameroon. The 42 missing migrants were presumed dead, including 29 from Sudan, eight from Somalia, three from Cameroon and two from Nigeria, the IOM said. According to data from the IOM's Missing Migrants Project, more than 1,000 migrants and refugees died in the Central Mediterranean in 2025. Libya's Ministry of Defence, under the UN-recognised Government of National Unity (GNU), announced that it has targetted several boats used for smuggling illegal migrants in northwestern Libya. According to a post by the state-run Libya National TV on social media platform Facebook, the airstrikes, conducted inside Zuwara Port, about 120 km west of the capital Tripoli, were carried out with precision and without causing any human casualties. Field sources told the channel that the airstrikes followed close monitoring and tracking of smuggling networks operating in the area. According to the ministry, the operation was part of ongoing security efforts to combat human trafficking networks and curb the flow of migrants through Libya's coastal areas. Libya has long been a major transit point for irregular migrants due to its geographic proximity to Europe and its long Mediterranean coastline. Since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, prolonged instability and weak border control have allowed smuggling networks to operate with relative ease. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Monday issued a show-cause notice to West Bengal's Director General of Police (DGP) in response to the Election Commission of India's (ECI) allegations of intimidation and disruption during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant ordered the state police chief to file a personal affidavit explaining the allegations levelled in the poll bodyas counter affidavit that, despite complaints by poll officials, no FIRs were registered against those allegedly involved in burning objection forms and records linked to the SIR exercise. "Though this is being strongly refuted by the state government, we are reminded of our 19 January order, in which a categorical direction was issued to police authorities to ensure maintenance of law and order. We deem it appropriate for the DGP to explain his response," observed the Bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria. To streamline the ongoing SIR process in West Bengal and to address the apprehensions raised by the petitioners opposing the revision exercise, the Supreme Court issued a slew of interim directions. The CJI-led Bench directed the West Bengal government to ensure that all 8,505 Group B officers, whose list was handed over to the top court during the hearing, report to the District Electoral Officers (DEOs) or Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) by 5 p.m. on Tuesday. The apex court granted discretion to the ECI to replace the existing EROs and Assistant EROs (AEROs) and utilise the services of the newly made available state government officers, if they are found qualified and suitable. After a brief scrutiny of their biodata and work experience, these state government officials may be imparted one or two days of training and deployed to assist the EROs/AEROs. The Supreme Court categorically clarified that micro-observers and state government officials shall only assist the statutory authorities, and that the final decision-making power will rest solely with the EROs. Taking note of submissions that the induction of a new set of officials could delay scrutiny of documents submitted by affected voters, the CJI-led Bench directed that the EROs be granted at least one additional week beyond February 14 to complete the scrutiny and take appropriate decisions. In its order, the apex court recorded the ECIas clarification that micro-observers are not decision-making authorities and are only meant to assist the statutory authorities. The Supreme Court also took note of the poll bodyas submission that there were erring officials against whom recommendations for suspension had been made, but no action was taken by the state government. It was also highlighted that when certain officers were needed for the SIR exercise, they were transferred. At this, the bench asked the Secretary to the Chief Minister to look into the issue, observing that when suspension advice is given, the state government "ought to know what to do". The apex court ordered that the ECI shall be at liberty to replace officers who are not performing their duties. --IANS pds/vd Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 9 : Poet and Kerala Sahitya Akademi Chairman K. Satchidanandan has reignited debate in Kerala's political circles by reiterating his view that continuous rule is unhealthy for democracy, arguing that the state is better served when political fronts alternate in power. Drawing on the experience of West Bengal, he warned that prolonged governance by any party risks weakening democratic institutions and eroding ideological foundations. Satchidanandan said that after two consecutive terms in office, it is healthier for a party to sit in the Opposition, irrespective of whether it is the Left or the Congress. "If the Congress was in power, I would say the same," he remarked. Continuous rule, he cautioned, often leads to corruption, centralisation of authority and the influx of opportunists, ultimately diluting a party's core values. He emphasised that the Opposition is central to the functioning of democracy, noting that remaining out of power can help parties rebuild strength and deepen their roots among the people. According to him, electoral victory or defeat should not be the ultimate objective of political parties. Instead, democracy must ensure that the voices of workers, farmers, Adivasis, minorities and other marginalised groups are heard. In a diverse country like India, he argued, change can only be achieved by strengthening democratic processes rather than through revolutionary upheaval. Referring again to West Bengal, Satchidanandan said Kerala's Communist movement had not yet reached a similar stage of decline, but warned that another consecutive term could push it in that direction. While acknowledging the Left government's achievements in development and literacy, he expressed concern over what he described as a growing fear among citizens to criticise the ruling party, calling it a worrying sign for a democratic society. He also criticised political compromises aimed at appeasing dominant community organisations and cautioned against prioritising majority sentiment over principled politics. Communists, he said, have a responsibility to stand with non-communal minorities, particularly at a time when minorities feel increasingly vulnerable. Such compromises, he argued, weaken parties ideologically and politically. The remarks triggered strong political reactions. Former Health Minister and CPI(M) MLA K.K. Shailaja rejected Satchidanandan's view, stating that the prevailing sentiment within the Left Democratic Front and among the public was that development should continue through stable governance. CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan, however, struck a more conciliatory note, saying the party would seriously consider criticisms, including those raised by Satchidanandan, and address any shortcomings associated with prolonged rule. Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan said the comments vindicated the Opposition's stand, describing them as an acknowledgment of the political and organisational decline within the CPI(M). Meanwhile, joining the issue was another hugely popular, award-winning novelist and writer, Sarah Joseph, who echoed Satchidanandan's statement. Seoul, Feb 9 : South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said Monday that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told him the United States will revert reciprocal tariffs to the pre-agreement level of 25 per cent if Seoul makes no progress on addressing non-tariff barriers. Cho shared details with lawmakers of his meeting with Greer in Washington last week, as Seoul seeks to keep the trade deal with the ally intact following US President Donald Trump's warning of raising the tariff rate from 15 per cent, citing South Korea's slow legislative process. "The US is seeking to raise tariffs on South Korea to reduce its trade deficit if there is no progress in talks with Seoul over non-tariff barriers," Cho said at a National Assembly session, Yonhap news agency reported. Seoul has committed to investing US$350 billion in the US in exchange for Washington lowering the duty to 15 per cent. But Trump threatened to raise tariffs on South Korea as legislation to implement the trade deal has remained pending in the National Assembly since its introduction in late November. Non-tariff barriers largely refer to South Korea's regulatory moves concerning digital platform services, like Google Inc., quarantine measures for agricultural imports, and certification requirements for autos, pharmaceuticals and other sectors. Washington has expressed concerns that Seoul's push to tighten regulations on digital services is discriminatory and has called for easing existing requirements in agriculture and other sectors. According to Cho, Greer pointed to sluggish progress on the investment pledge and noted that discussions on non-tariff issues have yet to take place despite US calls to move the deal forward. "(He) told me that the US cannot spend much time on the South Korean market as (the US) has to discuss non-tariff barriers with other countries as well," Cho said. "(He told me) that South Korea should understand the US is seeking to improve its trade deficit with South Korea through a tariff hike 'without any emotions attached' if no progress is made (in the trade deal)," Cho said, adding that Greer had asked Seoul to resolve the issue quickly. Cho told lawmakers that the Cabinet members are taking the matter seriously and plan to take steps in a swift manner. Cho also said Washington had confirmed a US delegation would visit South Korea later this month to negotiate expanding Seoul's rights to civil uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing. "I received confirmation from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during our talks that an interagency US team would visit (South Korea) in February," Cho said. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text The Indo-Pacific defense landscape in 2026 has reached a strategic inflection point, characterized by the collapse of traditional US-led export models and a rapid transition toward technological autonomy. For defense stakeholders, this briefing is a strategic necessity as regional powers move beyond mere platform procurement toward integrating sovereign, AI-driven ecosystems. The Singapore Airshow 2026 has confirmed that the drone-centric force is no longer a future concept but an operational baseline, evidenced by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) transition to the Orbiter 4 and Hermes 900 fleets. This evolution is mirrored by Indonesias aggressive procurement pivot, signaling a preference for sanction-proof and ITAR-free hardware over restricted Western alternatives. Core Defense Narratives The Collapse of the US F-15EX Campaign in Indonesia: Boeings February 2026 confirmation that it is no longer pursuing the F-15ID variant ends the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding for 24 aircraft, marking a significant strategic failure for US regional diplomacy. Operationalization of Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T): The shift from concept to battlefield reality is cemented by the successful RSAF HTeaming trials, which integrated crewed H225M helicopters with autonomous Flexrotor systems. Sovereignty as the Primary Procurement Driver: Regional buyers now demand total control over software Intellectual Property (IP), local production, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities to mitigate the risk of external political leverage. This regional realignment is most visible in the radical transformation of Indonesias fighter fleet, where strategic diversification has replaced traditional reliance on a single superpower. The Indonesian Defense Pivot Indonesias non-aligned defense posture has evolved into a rigorous strategy of supplier diversification under President Prabowo Subianto. To avoid the historically paralyzing effect of U.S. export restrictions and the threat of CAATSA-related sanctions, Jakarta is building a mixed fleet to ensure that no single international partner can exert leverage over Indonesian national security. The French-led backbone now defines the modernization of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU). The commitment to the Dassault Rafale is total, with 42 aircraft ordered across three tranches (6+18+18). On January 27, 2026, the first three units arrived at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base. This acquisition is a turnkey solution that includes a comprehensive training package and a specialized center equipped with two full-mission simulators, ensuring the Rafale serves as the primary high-end platform, replacing legacy Russian hardware. The cancellation of the Boeing F-15EX deal is the decisive So What of this pivot. By walking away from the 2023 MOU for 24 aircraft, Jakarta has signaled that it will no longer tolerate the political oversight and operational constraints inherent in US high-end exports. This creates a vacuum being filled by European and Asian alternatives that offer greater technological transparency. Indonesias Fighter Fleet: Active Considerations vs. Strategic Hurdles Aircraft Type Origin Status Strategic Constraint TAI KAAN Turkey Conditional Deal ($10B/48 jets) ITAR Independence: Must prove 100% freedom from US export controls. Chengdu J-10C China Active Consideration (42 aircraft) Logistical Integration: Difficulty integrating with existing Western-spec infrastructure. KAI KF-21 South Korea Ongoing Partnership (16 Block 2 jets) Funding: Ongoing financial disputes; the restart package remains stalled. While this strategy prevents supplier leverage, it introduces a logistical nightmare. Maintaining separate training and MRO pipelines for F-16s, Su-27/30s, Rafales, and potentially Chinese J-10Cswhich are marketed as combat-proven alternatives following successes in Pakistanwill strain the TNI AUs budget. However, the pursuit of sovereignty remains the priority, extending to specialized roles where the Leonardo M-346 F Block 20 has been selected to replace the aging BAE Hawk fleet for light combat and advanced training. Autonomous Systems and MUM-T Integration Regional air forces are rapidly evolving into drone-centric entities, a doctrinal shift informed by the need to operate in saturated, low-altitude urban environments. The RSAF has fundamentally restructured its UAV fleet baseline, operationalizing the Orbiter 4 and Hermes 900 to replace the legacy Hermes 450 and Heron 1 platforms, effectively reducing long-term dependency on original Israeli configurations through localized integration. Key unmanned platforms showcased in 2026 highlight a move toward deep-strike and force multiplication: Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat (Block 3): This iteration features an internal weapons bay and structural range extensions. Boeing targets 2028 for the first operational RAAF missions, signaling its transition from a demonstrator to a combat asset. Airbus Flexrotor/H225M Trials: The HTeaming simulations successfully demonstrated a crewed helicopter controlling an autonomous UAS for search and rescue, proving the viability of autonomous force multipliers. Anduril YFQ-44 Fury: A pilotless, high-performance autonomous jet explicitly positioned for the Indo-Pacific market to provide low-cost mass. Loitering munitions have emerged as a core tactical requirement. ST Engineerings EagleStrike provides ground forces with localized precision strike, while Andurils supply of Altius systems to Taiwan underscores the proliferation of swarming capabilities. To counter these threats, the RSAF is developing a Counter-Drone Shield, a multi-layered system of sensors, jammers, and effectors specifically designed to neutralize low-cost swarms in congested airspaces. This proliferation of autonomy necessitates integrating advanced AI-driven decision-support systems to manage the compressed kill chains of modern warfare. Regional Airpower Modernization: Fifth-Gen Pivot The introduction of fifth-generation assets is creating a clear technological divide in the region. Singapore continues to set the benchmark for regional capability; the RSAF is on track to receive its first four F-35B STOVL jets later in 2026. This 20-aircraft fleet mix will operate alongside upgraded F-16V and F-15SG platforms, cementing Singapores status as the most sophisticated air power in Southeast Asia. Simultaneously, China is executing a marketing offensive to normalize its military hardware. The public debut of the land-based J-35A stealth fighter model, designed for air superiority and precision strike, alongside the PLAAF Bayi teams J-10C demonstrations positions Chinese hardware as a sanction-proof alternative. This normalization strategy targets nations wary of Western political strings. In the support and maritime domains, diversification is equally aggressive: Embraer C-390 Millennium: Secured selection for South Koreas LTA-II program and entered the Uzbekistani market, proving its viability as a global transport alternative. PTDI Special Mission Portfolio: Indonesias PTDI is marketing the CN235-220 ASW and the N219 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) to capture the growing regional demand for anti-submarine and maritime patrol capabilities. These airframes are only as effective as the munitions and data links that support them, which drives a secondary market for high-tech subsystems. Advanced Munitions, Missile Defense, and Multi-Domain AI The strategic importance of ITAR-free weapon systems and multi-domain data integration has become the defining technical requirement of 2026. Major weapon systems on show included: ST Engineering has unveiled the EagleStrike loitering munition at the Singapore Airshow, offering the system as a tactical strike option for ground forces operating in increasingly contested environments. The weapons range is 20 km, with a mission endurance of up to 30 min, and it reaches a maximum speed of 30 m/s (about 100 km/h). has unveiled the EagleStrike loitering munition at the Singapore Airshow, offering the system as a tactical strike option for ground forces operating in increasingly contested environments. The weapons range is 20 km, with a mission endurance of up to 30 min, and it reaches a maximum speed of 30 m/s (about 100 km/h). IAI/ST Engineering Blue Spear (5G SSM): Marketed by the Proteus Advanced Systems joint venture, this 5G surface-to-surface missile provides a sovereign solution for advanced naval and coastal defense. Rafael Puzzle AI Suite: A next-generation tool designed to accelerate battlefield decision-making by fusing multi-domain data into actionable intelligence. Tron Future T-Scope: An AI-powered sighting system using multiple sensors and automated ballistic calculations to predict trajectories, transforming unguided rockets into precision munitions. ST Engineering AI Cockpit & GEMINI-X: The debut of the AI Cockpit voice assistant and GEMINI-X tactical data links highlights a move toward proprietary, secure communications. Airbus A330 MRTT: Achieved world-first certification for the Automatic Air-to-Air Refueling (A3R) system, significantly reducing operator workload. This Sovereignty theme is pervasive: buyers are no longer accepting black box technologies and instead demand control over software and IP that enables local MRO and operational independence. This terrestrial and aerial autonomy is now being mirrored in the space domain. Sovereign Constellations in Space Space has transitioned from a commercial frontier to a top-tier military domain. On April 1, 2026, Singapore formally launched the National Space Agency of Singapore (NSAS), with Minister Tan See Leng announcing a mandate for sovereign space capabilities. While Germany is pursuing massive scale with its $41 billion SATCOM Stage 4 project (a constellation of over 100 satellites), Singapore is focusing on specialized, high-resolution assets. Key projects include the NeuSAR-2 radar constellation, the Nebula laser communications demonstrator, and the Polaris AI-enabled optical satellite from ST Engineering. These systems provide the secure data link and near-continuous observation required to support autonomous systems. Additionally, Rafaels LITESAT is being positioned as a turnkey orbital intelligence solution for regional partners. The overarching theme of the 2026 defense landscape is a relentless pursuit of technological autonomy. Regional nations are increasingly rejecting the role of passive customers, striving instead to become sovereign masters of their own defense destiny amidst the escalating US-China rivalry. Kochi, Feb 9 : Confident Group Managing Director T.A. Joseph on Monday sought to allay concerns over the company's stability following the death of its founder and chairman C.J. Roy, asserting that the real estate major remains financially sound, operationally active, and unaffected by the tragic incident. Addressing the media in Kochi, Joseph said Roy's absence would not disrupt projects or client commitments, stressing that Confident Group is a "zero-debt company" with no borrowings from banks, private institutions or individuals. "We have always done straight and fair business. Our model is simplesales, collection and constructionand the trust of our customers is our biggest strength," he said. Joseph confirmed that work has resumed across all project sites. In Bengaluru, he said, only painting work in two towers remains and will be completed soon. The company currently has 26 ongoing projects, while in Kerala, 12 projects were announced two months ago, of which eight have already been launched. Two more projects are scheduled for launch in the State on Saturday. Refuting speculation of financial stress, Joseph said the company had weathered earlier economic shocks without difficulty. "We had no issues during demonetisation or the Covid period. In fact, when the world was shut for a month during Covid, we did business worth Rs 18 crore," he said, adding that the company had received Rs 25 crore in collections over the past week and had no pending payments. On allegations of harassment by Income Tax officials, Joseph denied any such thing and said the officials were only doing their job and that the Group was satisfied with the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the circumstances leading to Roy's death. He clarified that statements made earlier by the chairman's brother regarding alleged harassment were based on incomplete information and had been corrected. Joseph also dismissed reports suggesting business links between Roy and film personalities, stating that the chairman's relationships with actor Mohanlal and producer Antony Perumbavoor were purely personal. While acknowledging Roy's fondness for cinema and his practice of advancing money to actors, he said there were no business interests involved. Describing Roy as a strong-willed individual and a devoted family man, Joseph said the chairman spoke daily with his wife and children multiple times. He also denied media reports about suicide notes, saying only a few personal directives to the family were found and were handed over directly to them and later to the SIT. Joseph thanked the media for its support, noting that barring a few online channels, most outlets had stood by the Group during a difficult time. He added that the Kerala Chief Minister had also expressed support, reinforcing confidence in the company's future. Terhran, Feb 9 : Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Monday urged Iranians to show unity and "disappoint the enemy" ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid rising tensions with the United States. In a televised address, Khamenei said national power relies more on "determination and resistance" than on military hardware like missiles and aircraft. His remarks come as Iran prepares for nationwide rallies on Wednesday to mark the revolution's victory. "Until the enemy is disappointed, a nation is exposed to persecution," Khamenei said. "The enemy must be disappointed," Xinhua news agency reported quoted the Iranian Supreme Leader as saying. He described the annual marches as a display of dignity that forces foreign powers to "retreat" from ambitions of interfering in Iranian affairs. The speech follows a period of heightened friction with the United States, fueled by a US military buildup in the Middle East and ongoing threats against Tehran. Despite indirect nuclear negotiations between Iranian and US delegations in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, significant gaps remain, leaving the prospect of a deal uncertain. Khamenei expressed hope that this year's anniversary would compel "other nations, governments, and powers to display modesty and reverence" toward the Iranian people. The 1979 Islamic Revolution was a watershed moment that transformed Iran from a pro-Western monarchy into an Islamic republic. Led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, a diverse coalition of clerics, students, and secular activists overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was supported by the United States. Iran and the United States severed diplomatic ties in 1980 after the Iranian people seized the US Embassy in Tehran. Meanwhile, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), Ali Larijani, will lead a delegation to the Omani capital of Muscat on Tuesday, according to the SNSC-affiliated Nour News. Larijani is scheduled to meet with high-ranking Omani officials to discuss regional and international developments, as well as bilateral relations, the news outlet reported Monday. The visit comes after Oman hosted and mediated a round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported. Amid heightened tensions between the two nations, Oman is considered a potential venue for future talks. At a news conference in Tehran on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the date and location for the next round of nuclear negotiations would be determined through consultations with Oman. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday characterized recent indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States as a "step forward," even as Washington moved to tighten the economic noose around Tehran with new sanctions and tariff threats. The talks, mediated by Oman, represent the first high-level contact between the two adversaries since the Israel-Iran conflict last June, during which the United States attacked Iran's key nuclear facilities. While Pezeshkian framed the dialogue as Tehran's "consistent strategy" for peaceful resolution, analysts say the diplomatic opening reflects cautious crisis management rather than any genuine rapprochement. Writing on his X account, Pezeshkian said Iran's nuclear ambitions remain firmly within the "explicit rights" guaranteed by the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. "The Iranian nation has always responded to respect with respect," he wrote, "but it does not tolerate the language of force." New Delhi, Feb 9 : A total of 3,032 mentors have been onboarded across the country by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) under the National Mission on Mentoring (NMM) for developing skills of school teachers, the Centre told the Lok Sabha on Monday. Minister of State (MoS) for Education, Jayant Chaudhary, said in a written reply that mentors under the NMM are selected by NCTE through a structured process that examines professional excellence, mentoring aptitude, and alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020. "Any outstanding professional (retired or working) with at least eight years of experience in their area of expertise, including professors, principals and other professionals, may be considered for engagement as a mentor," MoS Chaudhary added. He said that mentors are required to submit their applications through the designated application form available on the NCTE website and are provided orientation and capacity-building support. The mentoring methodology under the NMM uses technology-enabled, need-based support, combining individual and group mentoring through a dedicated digital platform, namely the Unified Mentoring Interface (UMI). The mentoring covers 30 domains and 41 sub-domains aligned with NEP, 2020, including pedagogical content knowledge, foundational literacy, inclusive education and digital education, and is undertaken on a continuous basis to support teachers' professional development, the MoS added. For enhancement of teaching-learning practices, the NMM aims to create a large pool of outstanding professionals (mentors), who are willing to provide short- and long-term professional support and cross-learning among school teachers (mentees), the NMM website said, adding that the mentors contribute to teachers' continuous professional development/capacity building. In reply to another query on reservation in promotion to engineers and technical cadre employees in IITs, the Education Ministry said that the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are autonomous bodies governed by the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961, as amended from time to time, and the statutes framed thereunder. Reservation in IITs for the non-teaching cadre is implemented in line with the Union government's reservation policy to promote social justice and equitable representation, Minister of State (MoS) for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, said. Posts are reserved as per the norms prescribed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). "These measures aim to ensure that opportunities in these institutions are accessible to candidates from underrepresented communities, while recruitment continues to be conducted through transparent and merit-based procedures," MoS Majumdar added. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The gross NPAs as a percentage of total loans and advances of scheduled commercial banks have been continuously declining during the last eight financial years, and were at a historic low of 2.15 per cent at the end of September 2025, which is lower than the 2010-11 level, the Parliament was informed on Monday. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has apprised that the data on gross NPAs of banks is not collected by it on a monthly basis. However, as per the latest data available with the apex bank, as on September 30, 2025, for domestic operations, the gross NPA ratio of scheduled commercial banks was 2.15 per cent. In the case of public sector banks, the gross NPA ratio was 2.50 per cent, while for private sector banks it was 1.73 per cent, and for foreign banks the figure stood at 0.8 per cent. Also, public sector banks recorded a higher decline in gross NPA ratio in comparison with private banks and foreign banks since March 2018, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha. This continuous decline in gross NPAs of banks has led to reduced provisioning by them, which in turn has improved their profitability, thereby causing a positive impact on business growth. It also indicates that the asset quality, as well as underwriting, has improved in PSBs supported by a strong balance sheet and sustained profitability, the minister said. The RBI initiated the asset quality review in 2015, after which the government initiated 4Ras strategy of recognising NPAs transparently, resolving and recovering value from stressed accounts through clean and effective laws and processes, recapitalising public sector banks, and reforms in banks and the financial ecosystem to address the problem of rising NPAs and growing loan default. Enabled by these initiatives, a large drop in gross NPAs was achieved by the banks, the minister said. Comprehensive measures have been taken by the government and the RBI to prevent, reduce and recover NPAs. Due to this, the slippage ratio, which reflects the fresh accretion of NPAs as a percentage of standard advances, has been continuously improving for the last six financial years in respect of public sector banks in comparison with private banks. The government and the RBI have also been working in coordination to strengthen the various recovery mechanisms available. These include filing of suits in civil courts or in Debts Recovery Tribunals, action under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, filing of cases in the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, through negotiated settlements/compromise, and through sale of non-performing assets. In addition to these, various amendments have been proposed in IBC to address the delays in completion of CIRPs, which are under legislative approval, the minister added. Jaipur, Feb 9 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said on Monday that Ayurveda has deep roots in the soil of Rajasthan and the state holds immense potential for the production of medicinal plants. He said the state's hills, forests, and rich biodiversity testify to Rajasthan's centuries-old association with Ayurveda. The state government, he added, is working on a priority basis to promote Ayurveda and encourage its wider adoption among the public. The Chief Minister was addressing the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) at its Jaipur campus. He said that the institute, which began as a college in 1976, has today emerged as a leading deemed-to-be Ayurveda university in the country. "The national stature, prestige, and leadership achieved by the NIA over the last 50 years are a matter of pride for Rajasthan." The Chief Minister noted that the institute has established exemplary leadership in the four key pillars of education, training, research, and patient care. Chief Minister Sharma said that Ayurveda and Yoga have played a significant role in establishing India as a global leader. Ayurveda, he added, offers profound knowledge of seasonal diseases and their treatment. "Alongside the Vedas, ancient sages understood human life through Ayurveda, which was systematised by great scholars such as Charaka, Sushruta, and Vagbhata." The Chief Minister recalled that the Charaka Samhita emphasises a healthy body as the foundation of righteous living, while Sushruta is revered worldwide as the father of surgery. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Treatment in India and Treatment by India" has given new direction to traditional systems of medicine. "The establishment of a separate Ministry of AYUSH has strengthened Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy," he added. Chief Minister Sharma said that the declaration of June 21 as International Yoga Day by the United Nations, through the Prime Minister's efforts, has brought global recognition to Yoga and India's traditional medical heritage. "Investments in Ayurveda research have increased, and institutions in this field have been expanded." Chief Minister Sharma said that in recent years, the state government has expanded medical facilities by establishing new Ayurveda hospitals, colleges, and dispensaries. "Undergraduate and postgraduate seats have been increased, modern laboratories and drug standardisation units strengthened, and teaching pharmacies upgraded." "Efforts are underway to integrate Ayurveda into the mainstream public health system through the expansion of hospitals, strengthening of Panchakarma units, modernisation of dispensaries, and enhanced opportunities for education and research," the Chief Minister said. He assured full cooperation in the allocation of land for expansion of the National Institute of Ayurveda in Jaipur. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH and Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, said that the 50-year journey of the NIA represents the dedication and commitment of generations of doctors, researchers, and scholars who have kept the lamp of Ayurveda burning. He added that lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and Vitamin B12 and D deficiencies are increasing, and Ayurveda and Yoga play an important role in their management. Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, he said, the Union government aims not only to treat diseases but also to build a healthy, balanced, and empowered society. Chief Minister Sharma thanked the Prime Minister for the budget announcements, including the establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda, and appreciated the work being done in Rajasthan under the Chief Minister's leadership. Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa said that the Ayushman Adarsh Gram Yojana is being implemented in the state to create healthy villages through Ayurveda and Yoga. Calling Ayurveda and Yoga India's gifts to the world, he noted that under the National AYUSH Mission action plan for 2025a"26, Rajasthan has received the highest allocation in the country, amounting to Rs 348 crore. On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed OPD Sushruta Bhavan at the NIA campus and also visited an exhibition. Legislators and other dignitaries were present at the event. Patna, Feb 9 : On the fifth day of the Bihar Assembly's budget session, BJP legislator Mithilesh Tiwari from Baikunthpur raised serious concerns over the presence of foreign nationals in Gopalganj district during Question Hour. Tiwari said that a large number of foreign nationals had arrived in Gopalganj between 1990 and 2015, spanning a period of 25 years. He questioned whether all of them had returned to their respective countries or if some had settled permanently in the district. The BJP MLA informed the House that 167 citizens from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, had reportedly come to Gopalganj, but no precise information is available regarding their current status. He expressed concern that people from outside may be living in the district under changed identities, calling it a matter that could indicate a serious conspiracy. "People come on religious pilgrimages and later acquire Indian citizenship. The Minister has admitted in his reply that 173 foreign nationals came to Gopalganj between 1990 and 2015, even though the district has no major religious site except the Thawe temple. We need to know whether the government has any documents related to these individuals," Tiwari said in the Assembly. Speaking to reporters outside the House, Mithilesh Tiwari said he did not have information on whether the names of these foreign nationals were mentioned in any FIRs. However, he added that it is possible they may have shifted to other locations, constructed houses, changed their names, or even obtained Aadhaar cards. He further speculated that some of them could be living in Kishanganj or other districts, stressing that the intent behind their arrival and settlement must be investigated thoroughly. According to the MLA, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Choudhary, responding on behalf of the government, assured the House that the matter would be investigated in detail. Tiwari added that he had also submitted specific suggestions to the Home Minister, which he said should be examined as part of the inquiry. The issue has added a security and demographic dimension to the ongoing budget session debates, with opposition and ruling party members closely watching how the government proceeds with the investigation. Islamabad, Feb 9 : Political parties in Pakistan seem to be losing the capacity to see critical national issues through a national prism which was reflected in the recent discussion on Balochistan in National Assembly and the Senate, a report has stated. "In this context, the parliamentary debate on Balochistan revealed rare unanimity, but also the absence of introspection. Across party lines in both the National Assembly and the Senate, lawmakers converged on two broad premises: first, that the grievances of the Baloch must be addressed, without specifying what those grievances are, and second, that terrorism cannot be defeated through condemnations alone," security analyst Muhammad Amir Rana wrote in Pakistan's leading daily Dawn. "However, from a security-centric outlook, this consensus was rhetorical. The debate ultimately stopped short of engaging with the deeper political and structural causes that have allowed violence to entrench itself in the province," he added. Several parliamentarians highlighted the failure of the government in addressing grievances of residents, especially the denial of political rights, economic opportunity and meaningful involvement for Baloch youth. They stressed that hostile external actors and violent networks have exploited governance vacuum. Lawmakers raised questions over the credibility of counter-smuggling measures, with parliamentarians questioning on how oil continues to flow from border regions to major urban centres despite the presence of security and what concrete measures were being taken to curb external involvement. During the debate, the parliamentarians raised issues of Balochistan, which was also mentioned in the resolutions passed by both houses. Dissenting views, especially calls for political engagement and reconciliation, were absent from the final consensus. However, few opposition leaders, including the National Assembly opposition leader Mehmood Achakzai and Senator Jan Buledi in the Senate, called for political engagement and reconciliation to address the problems of Balochistan, the Dawn report highlighted. "These resolutions also reflected concurrence with the countryas power elites under the perceived paradigm of a hard state. While we are not entering into an academic debate on the concept of the hard state, one major flaw is evident in the approach: it becomes fixated on a narrow vision, viewing issues through a single prism and losing the ability to accommodate diverse perspectives, which is the essence of political processes," wrote Rana. "This approach is manifesting itself at multiple levels, but Balochistan remains its prime victim, as the space for resolving the provinceas complex issues through a political process has steadily diminished," he added. Baloch and Pakhtun nationalist parties, especially Akhtar Mengalas Balochistan National Party (BNP), Abdul Malikas National Party (NP) and Achakzaias Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), continue to support political reconciliation. Recently, Sardar Akhtar Mengal has taken a more hard-line approach to protect his political space. Mainstream political parties, especially the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have at times listened to their concerns, however, they have failed to resolve the issues of Balochistan, the report highlighted. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Bangladesh is poised barely two days away from one of the most consequential elections since its independence in 1971, with its 13th national election to be held on Thursday, February 12, to select its next government and a Prime Minister. A ban on the Awami League, ousted in August 2024 in a student-led protest, pits the contest primarily between two major groups, one led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the other by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. For years, Awami Leader Sheikh Hasina has been held responsible for sidelining Opposition parties, who often boycotted elections or were allegedly weakened by arrests. Now, Hasina has been forced to seek refuge in India, while her party is banned and a death order has been handed to her. Meanwhile, the minority community remain under constant fear, with several incidents of Hindu lynchings reported by the country's media. Close to 12.8 crore registered voters, according to the Bangladesh Election Commission website, will exercise their mandate at 42,779 polling booths to elect representatives from 60 political parties recognised by the poll body. It is the Gen Z to largely shape poll narratives, where their choice can influence the outcome, redefine Bangladesh's politics and diplomacy, and Dhaka's future role in maintaining regional balance. Analysts believe BNP would maintain better ties with India compared to Jamaat, which could lean more towards Pakistan. Jamaat's Gen-Z allies openly criticise "New Delhi's dominance" and have been holding meetings with China's diplomats. Ground reports and opinion polls predict an edge for the BNP, though some say that the Jamaat may surprise with its best showing yet. The Jamaat has faced a series of strictures and legal challenges for its alleged 1971 role in Islamabad's favour, with the former government led by Hasina also imposing a ban after a court ruling. The Yunus-led interim administration lifted the ban, and the party's registration was restored following a Supreme Court decision. On Friday, alongside the election, a referendum on the "July Charter" (constitutional reforms) will be held where voters must give a collective "yes" or "no" to a series of reforms aimed at reshaping Bangladesh's governance and democratic structure. Awami League under Sheikh Hasina dominated the political sphere in Bangladesh between 2008 and 2024. During this period, Opposition parties, like the BNP and Jamaat, have often boycotted elections, alleging political dominance and arrest of their leaders. This time, with the Awami League banned from participating in any political activities after Hasina's ouster in 2024, the contest is mainly between the BNP and Jamaat coalitions. In 1973, when the election was first held after Bangladesh's independence in 1971, the Awami League under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman dominated, winning 292 of the Parliament's 300 seats. After Mujib's assassination in 1975 and military rule under General Ziaur Rahman, the general election held in 1979 saw the BNP win a majority, consolidating the latter's political influence. In the next polls, held under military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad, the Opposition boycotted the 1986 Parliamentary election. Though Jatiya Party (Ershad) won, the legitimacy was under cloud. BNP under Khaleda Zia won the 1991 election and again, in 1996, which was boycotted by the Awami League. The election was annulled amid protests, and new polls held the same year under a caretaker government saw the Awami League under Sheikh Hasina forming government. The subsequent election in 2001 resulted in a BNP-led alliance winning a majority, returning Khaleda Zia to power. The next election, after a military-backed caretaker rule (20072008), brought back Sheikh Hasina, who returned as Prime Minister. Awami League won again in 2014, which was boycotted by the Opposition boycott with reports of widespread violence. In 2018, Hasina returned amidst Opposition allegations of political suppression and vote-rigging, winning 288 of the country's 300 seats. In between, Bangladesh politics witnessed interventions in the form of takeovers and coups. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, called on Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, in New Delhi on Monday with the two leaders exploring avenues to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors. According to the Vice President's Secretariat, during the meeting, the two leaders discussed key aspects of Indiaa"Seychelles bilateral relations and noted that the two countries are marking 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations. "They explored avenues to further strengthen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including maritime security, renewable energy, the medical sector, higher education, hospitality, and digitalisation. The Vice-President fondly recalled his visit to Seychelles in October last year, when he attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Herminie. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region," the statement added. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Seychelles President - on a State Visit to India from February 5-10 - held comprehensive and productive discussions covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations. PM Modi congratulated Herminie for his success in the elections held in October 2025 as the two leaders reaffirmed that India and Seychelles, as close maritime neighbours, enjoy a special and time-tested partnership built on ties of history and kinship, and nurtured by the shared values of democracy and pluralism. Both leaders also acknowledged that Seychelles-India ties are people-centric and reinforce security and stability in the Western Indian Ocean Region. They reaffirmed Seychelles' role as an important pillar in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). Underlining the respective strengths of both nations and recognising the importance of the relationship, the two leaders announced a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL). According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Herminieas State Visit coming around 100 days after his inauguration signals the shared commitment of India and Seychelles to strengthen, expand and deepen our longstanding and multifaceted bilateral partnership. It also adds significance as it coincides with the 50th year of Independence of Seychelles, and the 50th year of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Herminie underlined Indiaas role as a trusted partner for Seychelles and the region and expressed gratitude to New Delhi for the longstanding assistance and cooperation extended to Seychelles in achieving its development agenda. Both sides also exchanged several MoUs in the fields of health, digital, meteorology, culture, ocean science, food and governance. Pune, Feb 9 : Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) president Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic around 4 pm on Monday. a Pune, Feb 9 (IANS) Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) president Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic around 4 pm on Monday. Accompanying him were his wife, Pratibha Pawar, daughter Supriya Sule, son-in-law Sadanand Sule, and grandson Rohit Pawar. Dr Abhijeet Lodha is treating Pawar, and a preliminary medical examination has been conducted. Sule in her post in X said, "Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a 5-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your good wishes and constant support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart." The initial assessment shows that Pawar's heart rate and oxygen levels are stable. However, his respiratory rate is slightly elevated. There is a possibility that he may be kept under hospital observation for a day. Meanwhile, party workers have been requested not to crowd the hospital. Supriya Sule also spoke to the doctors, requesting that treatment be carried out strictly in accordance with the hospital's protocol, the NCP SP release said. Ruby Hall Clinic's Dr Abhijeet Lodha addressed the media, stating, "Sharad Pawar's condition is stable. His preliminary examination has been completed. Since his oxygen levels and heart rate are normal, there is no cause for concern at present. Due to continuous travel and engagements over the past few days, he has experienced fatigue. As there is some chest congestion, a respiratory examination has also been conducted. He has been admitted to a private room and does not require oxygen support or a ventilator. Reports of further tests will be available in the next two to three hours, after which the Pawar family will decide on the next steps." NCP SP legislator Rohit Pawar said, "Over the past ten to twelve days, Sharad Pawar has had a very hectic schedule. Due to physical exhaustion and mild breathing discomfort, he was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic in his private vehicle. Doctors have conducted all necessary tests, and the reports have come back normal. I personally spoke to the doctors. Supriya Sule also stated that treatment should be carried out strictly in accordance with the hospital's protocol. Once the remaining test reports are received, a decision will be taken on whether he should stay in Pune or be shifted to Mumbai." As Ruby Hall Clinic treats many patients every day, an appeal has been made to party workers not to gather in the hospital area and create inconvenience for other patients, Rohit Pawar stated while speaking to the media. --IANS sj/dan Rafael Systems Global Sustainment has been selected for Phase 1 of the U.S. Armys Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) Second Interceptor program, the company announced today. The selection positions Rafaels proven Iron Dome-derived technology as a cornerstone of the Armys evolving air and missile defense architecture. The Army has already selected three contenders for this project, including a team of Boeing and Anduril, and Lockheed Martin. Dynetics, a Leidos subsidiary, is providing the IFPC Inc 2 primary interceptor based on the Enduring Shield launcher and AIM-9X-2 as the interceptor. The Second Interceptor Program is expected to conform to the Enduring Shield launcher, fire control and battle management system offering the warfighter more options for interceptors. The IFPC Inc 2 program addresses a critical gap in protecting fixed and semi-fixed military installations against an increasingly diverse threat spectrum. The interceptor system will provide 360-degree coverage against cruise missiles, unmanned aircraft systems, rockets, artillery, and mortarsthreats that have proven devastatingly effective in recent conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East. Managed by the Armys newly established Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Fires through the SHIELD (Short and Intermediate Effectors for Layered Defense) Project Office, the program emphasizes adaptability and future growth. The interceptor design prioritizes upgradability with minimal or no launcher modifications, recognizing that tomorrows threats will evolve beyond todays planning assumptions. Proven Technology, American Production Rafael Systems Global Sustainment will adapt technologies from the Israeli Iron Dome System, which has intercepted thousands of rockets and missiles in operational conditions since 2011. The company plans to use advanced modeling and simulation to update the legacy interceptor design to improve effectiveness against current and emerging threats, including subsonic and supersonic cruise missiles. The selection builds on significant industrial investments already underway. In 2025, Rafael secured a $1.25 billion contract from Israel to accelerate serial production of Iron Dome interceptors in Camden, Arkansas. That facility represents a concrete commitment to U.S.-Israeli defense industrial cooperation, creating American jobs while diversifying air defense supply chains. We are honored to be selected for this critical phase of IFPC Inc 2, said LTG (Ret.) Joe Anderson, CEO of Rafael Systems Global Sustainment. This selection reflects the Armys confidence in our capabilities and our commitment to delivering advanced, reliable solutions to protect U.S. warfighters. Open Architecture for Integrated Defense The IFPC Inc 2 system will employ a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and Weapon Open System Architecture (WOSA), enabling integration with other defense layers and future technological upgrades. This open-architecture approach reflects lessons learned from recent conflicts, where interoperability among different air defense systems has proven essential for effective protection. By incorporating kinetic interceptors into a layered defense framework, the Army aims to give commanders multiple options for engaging threats across different ranges and altitudes. The system is designed to enhance both capabilitywhat threats it can engageand capacity the number of simultaneous engagements it can support. Rafael brings operational experience that few competitors can match. The Iron Dome system has faced real-world testing against massed rocket attacks, evolved drone threats, and cruise missiles. Those operational lessons, combined with Rafael Systems Global Sustainments experience in system integration and sustainment, offer the Army a pathway to rapidly fielding proven technology adapted for American requirements. As the Army modernizes its air and missile defense capabilities under an evolving threat environment, the IFPC Inc 2 program represents a critical investment in protecting forward-deployed forces and critical infrastructure. With Phase 1 now underway, Rafael will work closely with the SHIELD Project Office to demonstrate how Iron Dome-derived technology can be tailored to meet the specific demands of U.S. military operations. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 9 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday launched a sharp attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the BJP, accusing them of openly promoting hatred and violence against Muslims and undermining India's constitutional values. In a strongly worded Facebook post, Chief Minister Vijayan said the circulation of a video that allegedly incites violence against Muslims has deeply shocked secular society and exposed what he described as the BJP's dangerous political trajectory. According to Vijayan, the video shared from the official handle of the Assam BJP shows Himanta Biswa Sarma in a manner that amounts to a public call for violence against Muslims. He described the act as unprecedented and alarming, particularly as it involves a person occupying a high constitutional office. Vijayan said such actions strike at the very foundation of India's secular and democratic framework. The Chief Minister pointed out that Sarma's repeated hate speeches and derogatory references to the 'Miya' Muslim community in Assam are not isolated incidents, but part of what he described as a consistent pattern reflecting the BJP's "inhuman politics of division". He alleged that with Assembly elections approaching in Assam, communal polarisation is being deliberately stoked to consolidate majority votes, even if it means challenging constitutional values. Raising a pointed question, Vijayan asked how a person who allegedly calls for genocide against minorities can be entrusted with governing a state in a secular republic. He also criticised the BJP's national leadership for remaining silent, arguing that such inaction indicates tacit approval. According to Vijayan, Sarma has merely articulated openly what the BJP and its ideological parent, the RSS, hesitate to state publicly. The post recalled Sarma's political past, noting that he was once a prominent Congress leader and a key minister in Assam before switching to the BJP in 2015. Since then, Vijayan alleged, Sarma has emerged as a principal architect of the BJP's communal strategy in the Northeast. Vijayan concluded by asserting that the absence of any disciplinary action against Sarma, despite his repeated statements marginalising Muslim minorities, is clear evidence that such views are not aberrations but reflect the BJP's core mindset. Ahmedabad, Feb 9 : The proposed staging of the play 'I Am Nathuram Godse' has been cancelled in Ahmedabad following protests by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) and the Youth Congress, extending a controversy that has already led to cancellations in Rajkot and Jamnagar. The play was scheduled to be performed on Monday at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in the Bodakdev area. Organisers decided to cancel the show after protests escalated in different parts of the city, citing concerns related to law and order. According to sources, nearly 75 per cent of the tickets had already been sold online, with ticket prices fixed at Rs 275. Gujarat Congress spokesperson Parthivraj Kathwadia said the play was unacceptable in the state associated with Mahatma Gandhi. "How can a play based on Godse, the assassin of the Father of the Nation and independent India's first terrorist, be tolerated on Gandhi's birthplace and workplace?" he said. He added, "Gujaratis, Gandhians and patriotic citizens can never accept the insult to Mahatma Gandhi. The people of Gujarat have rejected Godse's ideology, which is why the shows in Rajkot and Jamnagar were stopped, and now the Ahmedabad show has also been cancelled." He further said the Congress would continue to oppose any attempt to present Godse's ideas. "For Gujarat and for India, Godse will always remain a villain, while Mahatma Gandhi was, is and will always be the hero for the country and the world," he said. On Sunday, NSUI and Youth Congress workers staged demonstrations in areas including Bodakdev and along Sindhu Bhavan Road. Protesters raised slogans opposing Nathuram Godse and wrote messages on public walls asserting that a play centred on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin would not be accepted in Gujarat. As part of the protest, activists also carried out symbolic actions such as defacing images of Godse with black ink. Congress leaders warned that the performance would not be allowed to proceed if staged in the city. The controversy began last week in Rajkot, where the play was cancelled after Congress workers entered the venue before the show began and damaged stage property. Protesters alleged that the play sought to glorify Godse and amounted to an insult to Mahatma Gandhi. Police detained around 40 Congress workers following the incident. The organisers subsequently announced that the show had been cancelled, offered refunds to ticket-holders and apologised to audience members who had arrived to watch the performance. With the Ahmedabad performance now cancelled, the play has been withdrawn from all three cities amid continuing opposition across Gujarat. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Campaigning for municipal elections in Telangana came to an end on Monday. Polling in seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities will be held on Wednesday (February 11). A total of 12,930 candidates are in the fray for 2,996 wards in the 123 urban local bodies. As many as 52.43 lakh voters are eligible to cast their votes in the municipal elections. They comprise 25.62 lakh men, 26.80 lakh women and 640 others. The State Election Commission has set up 8,203 polling centres and arranged 16,031 ballot boxes for polling. The state poll body will also arrange 137 strong rooms and 136 counting centres. Re-polling, if any, will be conducted on February 12. Counting of votes will be taken up on February 13. The municipal elections are witnessing a three-cornered contest among the ruling Congress, opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The campaign saw no-holds-barred attacks by leaders of all three major contestants. The ruling Congress party sought the mandate in municipal elections to continue the welfare schemes implemented by its government during the last two years. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who led the Congress campaign, accused BRS and BJP of having a secret deal to defeat the Congress party. The Chief Minister also launched a scathing attack on the BJP for what he called shielding BRS president and former chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), his son K. T. Rama Rao (KTR) and other leaders in the alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram project and Formula E car race case. Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president, all state ministers, MPs, MLAs and other leaders of the ruling party campaigned for the party candidates. BRS campaign was led by KTR and senior leader T. Harish Rao. They targeted the Congress government over what they call its unfulfilled promises and corruption. The BRS leaders came down heavily on Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for his alleged abusive remarks against KCR and accused him of trying to divert public attention from his alleged corruption by using the SIT to summon BRS leaders for questioning in the case relating to the alleged phone-tapping case during the BRS rule. State BJP president Ramchander Rao and Union ministers G. Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar steered the party campaign. BJP national president Nitin Nabin also addressed a public meeting in Mahabubnagar, while Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a rally in Kumaram Bheem Asifabad district. Both the leaders accused the Congress government of practising the politics of appeasement. The state BJP leaders termed Congress and BRS as the two sides of the same coin and appealed to people to give a chance to their party. The BJP, in its manifesto, promised that there would be no increase in any taxes, including house tax, if the party was voted to power in municipalities and municipal corporations. Jana Sena Party, which is part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), also fielded 336 candidates without an alliance with the BJP. Jana Sena had also announced that its leader and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan will campaign for Jana Sena and BJP candidates for two days. However, his visit was cancelled, and the party did not come out with any statement on the reasons for the cancellation. Leaders of both Congress and BRS had opposed the actor-politicianas campaign plans, citing his remarks made in December last year that "evil eye on the scenic Konaseema region of Andhra dotted by coconut trees was one of the factors for the bifurcation of undivided Andhra Pradesha. Both parties alleged that his comments were against Telangana. However, the Jana Sena leader claimed that his comments were distorted. Jaipur, Feb 9 : Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas chaired a review meeting of the Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme at the Secretariat in Jaipur on Monday, government officials said. Jaipur, Feb 9 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief SecretaryA V. SrinivasA chaired a review meeting of theA Atal Gyan Kendra SchemeA at the Secretariat in Jaipur on Monday, government officials said. He directed that Atal Gyan Kendras being established at the gram panchayat level should be developed as robust centres for quality education, digital literacy, and preparation for competitive examinations, especially for rural youth. The Chief Secretary emphasised that all prescribed infrastructure, digital facilities, and study resources must be made available at the centres within stipulated timelines, and that regular monitoring of the implementation work should be ensured. He also instructed that the progress of both ongoing and completed works at the targeted gram panchayat headquarters under the first phase of the scheme should be continuously reviewed, and all pending works completed on priority. He said that the Kendras should function in a manner that enables students from rural and remote areas to benefit from modern study facilities. During the meeting, Joga Ram, Principal Secretary and Commissioner, Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Department, told that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being equipped with an e-library, current affairs magazines, books for competitive examinations, materials to promote logical and critical thinking, literature related to the freedom movement, multilingual newspapers, and e-Mitra services. He also told that Atal Gyan Kendras are being established in a phased manner at every gram panchayat headquarters. In the first phase, 2,056 gram panchayat headquarters with a population of more than 3,000 have been included. Financial approval has been issued for 1,687 Atal Gyan Kendras, of which work is underway at 508 centres, while construction of 243 centres has been completed. Joga Ram also said that each Atal Gyan Kendra is being provided with a building measuring around 36A20 feet, a minimum of four digital workstations, internet connectivity, furniture, and study facilities for at least 20 students. These centres are also being developed as activity hubs for training and other developmental activities, he added. He said that there is a proposal to deploy Atal Mentors for the operation of the Kendras. Their primary responsibilities will include digital empowerment of rural citizens, promotion of e-governance services, and assisting people in availing benefits of various government schemes. The Atal Gyan Kendra Scheme was announced by the Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on 'Good Governance Day' on December 25, 2024, and has also been included in the State Budget 2025a"26. Officials of the Panchayati Raj Department were also present at the meeting. Itanagar, Feb 9 : The Indian Army on Monday launched 'Mission Krishiveer' to strengthen farm-to-force linkage in East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, officials said. Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said the Spearhead Division of the Spear Corps launched the initiative at Sigar Military Station in East Siang district in collaboration with the Army Service Corps. The event was attended by Mebo Assembly constituency MLA Oken Tayeng, along with senior Army officials, representatives of the civil administration and local farmers. The initiative establishes a structured "farm-to-force" supply chain by directly linking local farmers with Army units deployed in the region. The Defence spokesman said the project aims to ensure the supply of fresh and quality agricultural produce to the troops, while simultaneously enhancing income opportunities for farmers in Arunachal Pradesh. By eliminating intermediaries, 'Mission Krishiveer' seeks to create a transparent, efficient and sustainable procurement mechanism that benefits both the Armed Forces and the local farming community, he added. The initiative is also expected to strengthen border logistics, improve supply chain efficiency in remote areas and contribute to regional food security. Addressing the gathering, MLA Oken Tayeng appreciated the collaborative effort between the Indian Army and local stakeholders, stating that the initiative would significantly boost farmers' livelihoods while reinforcing cooperation between the civil administration and the Armed Forces. Senior Army officials said that 'Mission Krishiveer' aligns with the broader vision of self-reliance and "Whole of Nation" participation in national development. The initiative supports the objectives of Atmanirbhar Arunachal by integrating local agricultural capacity with military logistics requirements. 'Mission Krishiveer' stands as an example of civilmilitary synergy, fostering mutual trust and partnership while contributing to national security and regional economic growth. New Delhi, Feb 9 : A group of former civil servants, academics, and social activists have moved the Supreme Court seeking the framing of guidelines to regulate statements and remarks made by constitutional functionaries that do not comport with constitutional morality. The writ petition, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution through advocate Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi, contended that repeated discriminatory and derogatory utterances by holders of public office undermine the core values of the Constitution. Recalling the Constituent Assembly Debates, the petition referred to Acharya J.B. Kripalanias warning that the principles enshrined in the Preamble were "not merely legal, constitutional and formal principles, but moral principles" which must be lived in political, administrative and public life. "More than seven decades later, we find ourselves in a political climate where the preambular principles remain in the text, but actions of administrators and constitutional functionaries often betray their intent," the plea said, adding that "living the principles, as Acharya Kripalani would have asked for, has been lost both in thought and practice". The petition alleged that this failure to adhere to constitutional morality has resulted in a series of troubling public statements by constitutional authorities and senior public officials across the country in recent years. It referred to remarks attributed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BJP leader Nitesh Rane and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, among others, and claimed that nearly 30 such statements have been identified during research. While acknowledging that political actors may subscribe to different ideologies, the petition asserted that constitutional functionaries and holders of public office are bound by the Constitution to ensure fairness in action and restraint in speech. "Constitutional functionaries, holders of public office, and officials of the government are bound by the Constitution to ensure fairness in action. This would also mean that statements which are discriminatory or derogatory in nature, even if not amounting to hate speech, should be impermissible to be uttered by such persons," it added. Clarifying the scope of the relief sought, the petition stressed that it does not seek to curtail free speech or demand penal action for hate speech, which is governed by existing law. "The present petition does not seek to limit free speech or seek punishments for hate speech," it said, adding that the limited prayer is for the apex court to evolve guidelines, either through judicial examination or a dialogic process, to ensure that public officials adhere to constitutional morality in their conduct and public discourse. The plea has arrayed the Union of India and the states of Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh as respondents. Tehran, Feb 9 : Iran's nuclear chief said on Monday Tehran could consider diluting its 60 per cent enriched uranium, but only if all international sanctions are fully lifted, according to the official news agency IRNA. President of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, Mohammad Eslami made the remarks in an address to reporters while responding to a question about whether the United States demanded that his country dilute its 60 per cent uranium in indirect negotiations between the two sides in Oman on Friday, Xinhua News Agency reported. "This issue (Iran's dilution of its enriched uranium) depends on whether they will lift all sanctions in return or not," Eslami said. He stressed that transferring Iran's enriched uranium to another country has basically not been on the agenda, adding that such a proposal has solely been put forward by individuals or countries seeking to contribute to the resolution of the issue. Eslami called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to fulfill its obligations and condemn the Israeli and US attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities in June last year. He emphasised that Iran's nuclear activities are entirely within the framework of law and safeguards agreements. Delegations from Iran and the United States, headed by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and US president's special envoy Steve Witkoff, held indirect nuclear talks in the Omani capital Muscat on Friday amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington. Meanwhile, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Monday urged Iranians to show unity and "disappoint the enemy" ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid rising tensions with the United States. In a televised address, Khamenei said national power relies more on "determination and resistance" than on military hardware like missiles and aircraft. His remarks come as Iran prepares for nationwide rallies on Wednesday to mark the revolution's victory. "Until the enemy is disappointed, a nation is exposed to persecution," Khamenei said. "The enemy must be disappointed." He described the annual marches as a display of dignity that forces foreign powers to "retreat" from ambitions of interfering in Iranian affairs. The speech follows a period of heightened friction with the United States, fueled by a US military buildup in the Middle East and ongoing threats against Tehran. Despite indirect nuclear negotiations between Iranian and US delegations in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, significant gaps remain, leaving the prospect of a deal uncertain. Khamenei expressed hope that this year's anniversary would compel "other nations, governments, and powers to display modesty and reverence" toward the Iranian people. The 1979 Islamic Revolution was a watershed moment that transformed Iran from a pro-Western monarchy into an Islamic republic. Led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, a diverse coalition of clerics, students, and secular activists overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was supported by the United States. Iran and the United States severed diplomatic ties in 1980 after the Iranian people seized the US Embassy in Tehran. Kolkata, Feb 9 : Days after saying that he would surrender before the Special CBI Court, former Deputy Superintendent of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Akhtar Ali, on Monday did not show up at the court. Even after the scheduled time of 11:00 a.m., there was no sign of him. Meanwhile, the CBI investigating officers and lawyers waited for Akhtar in the court premises, but he was nowhere to be seen. After Monday's absence, it is not clear whether he will surrender before the court on Tuesday. As the stipulated time for surrender passed without the accused appearing, questions about the future course of the case have been raised. On Saturday, Ali had appeared before the same court, a day after a special court of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) issued an arrest warrant against him. However, as the court closed at 12:30 p.m. that day, he could not surrender before the court. Akhtar did not take his lawyer with him even though he went to the court from the hospital on Saturday. He also did not inform the court in advance. He had promised that he would surrender before the court on Monday. "I am still sick. I was in the hospital. I did not have my mobile. So I did not know that the court would be closed today. I came. But bad luck. The court has told me to surrender on Monday. I will take action accordingly. If I get into trouble, they will arrest me. If they drag me to the court, then that will happen," he had said. A special court of the CBI on Friday issued an arrest warrant against Akhtar Ali, who had been the first whistle-blower in the multi-crore financial irregularities case in state-run R.G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, also infamous for the ghastly rape and murder of a woman junior doctor within the hospital premises in August 2024. Ali, the former Deputy Superintendent of R.G. Kar, was the first one to raise an alarm over the involvement of former and controversial R.G. Kar principal Sandip Ghosh in the financial irregularities case at the state-run medical college and hospital. In fact, based on his petition, a Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court ordered a CBI probe into the case of R.G. Kar's financial irregularities. Later, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) also started a parallel probe into the matter. Kolkata, Feb 9 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sent a fresh communication to the West Bengal government, asking it to complete the process of transfer of police officers at various levels in the state by February 15, amid the crucial Assembly elections scheduled later this year. The communication has been sent to the office of the Additional Chief Electoral Officer (ACEO), West Bengal, and forwarded to the office of the Additional Chief Secretary of the state Home and Hill Affairs Department, sources in the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said. In the communication, the state government has been advised to complete the police transfer process by February 15 and submit a compliance report to the Commission. This is the second such communication from the Commission in the matter. Earlier in January, the ECI had sent a similar directive to the state government, asking it to complete the police transfer process at the earliest. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday issued a show-cause notice to the West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) in response to the ECI's allegations of intimidation and disruption during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state. A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant also directed that Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) be granted at least one additional week beyond February 14 to complete scrutiny and take appropriate decisions. Initially, February 7 had been fixed as the deadline for completing hearings on claims and objections to the draft electoral rolls, while February 14 was scheduled for the publication of the final voters' list. "So, following the Supreme Court's order this morning, the date for publication of the final voters' list will not be before February 21. However, the final list will definitely be published before the end of this month," an insider in the CEO's office said. After the publication of the final voters' list, the full Bench of the Commission will visit West Bengal to take stock of the situation. Soon thereafter, the polling dates for the crucial Assembly elections in the state, scheduled later this year, will be announced. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah will deliver the keynote address at the National Conference on Tackling Cyber-Enabled Frauds and Dismantling the Ecosystem in New Delhi on February 10. a aThe two-day event organised by the Central Bureau of Investigation in partnership with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs will take place at Bharat Mandapam from February 10 to 11. a During the inaugural session, Home Minister Amit Shah will conduct an investiture ceremony for CBI officers, a press release issued on Monday said. a He will also inaugurate the newly established Cybercrime Branch of the CBI and launch the State Cyber Crime Coordination Centre Dashboard developed by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. These steps represent a strengthened institutional response to the growing threat of digital crimes. a The conference is being held against the backdrop of India's rapid digital advancement under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Widespread adoption of digital banking governance and communication tools has brought convenience to millions, but has also opened the door for organised cybercriminal networks to exploit weaknesses. a Financial losses from cyber fraud are projected to reach alarming levels, with scams involving phishing, fake investment mule accounts, and digital arrest tactics causing widespread damage. The gathering aims to create a common understanding of the scale, current trends and changing patterns of cyber-enabled fraud across the country. a Discussions will centre on the three main components of the fraud ecosystem. The financial aspect covers mule accounts and money laundering channels. The telecom aspect addresses misuse of SIM cards, eSIMs, and related infrastructure. The human aspect highlights cyber slavery and the trafficking of individuals into overseas scam operations.a Participants will focus on building stronger prevention measures, advanced investigation techniques, and the wider use of technology, including artificial intelligence and data analytics, for efficient probes despite resource constraints. a Emphasis will be placed on better inter-agency cooperation, public-private partnerships, quicker fraud reporting, real-time tracking of funds, preservation of digital evidence and improved support systems for victims. a The conference brings together senior representatives from central and state law enforcement agencies, the Department of Telecommunications, the Department of Financial Services, the Reserve Bank of India, public and private banks, cooperative institutions, fintech companies, payment platforms, telecom operators, social media and cloud service providers, cybersecurity experts, and international counterparts. a This broad collaboration reflects a comprehensive whole-of-ecosystem strategy to counter cyber threats. Through these efforts, the government intends to disrupt criminal syndicates, protect citizens and strengthen confidence in India's expanding digital framework. a Riyadh prepares to host 925 exhibitors from 80 countries as the Kingdom accelerates its transition from defense consumer to industrial partner The third edition of the World Defense Show opens today in Riyadh, representing far more than a traditional arms exhibition. Over five days, the event will showcase Saudi Arabias ambitious transformation under Vision 2030, a shift from importing finished military hardware to building a domestic defense industrial base capable of meeting half its military needs by the end of the decade. The numbers tell the story of this acceleration: Saudi Arabias defense localization rate has surged from just 4% in 2018 to nearly 25% today. The exhibition has expanded by 58% since its last iteration, now spanning 273,000 square meters at a purpose-built site 70 kilometers from central Riyadh. With a 2025 military budget of approximately $78 billion, the Kingdom is leveraging WDS 2026 to convert financial firepower into industrial capability. From Procurement to Production The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) and Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) are orchestrating this transition, using the show as a platform to forge partnerships that will close the gap to their 50% localization target. Global defense primesBoeing, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, and othersare responding by repositioning themselves from suppliers to production partners. A new Saudi Supply Chain Zone exemplifies this shift, designed specifically to integrate local small and medium enterprises into global defense supply chains. Its a recognition that sustainable defense independence requires a deep ecosystem of specialized suppliers and technical expertise. Multi-Domain Focus Reflects Regional Realities WDS 2026s exhibition layout reflects the security challenges facing Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region. For the first time, a dedicated Naval Zone addresses maritime security concerns in the Red Sea and Gulf waters, including surface combatants, coastal defense systems, and maritime command-and-control platforms. The expanded Unmanned Systems Zone highlights the centrality of autonomous platforms in modern warfare, from aerial drones to ground vehicles and surface vessels. Swarming concepts and AI-driven autonomy feature prominently, reflecting lessons learned from recent conflicts in which unmanned systems have proven decisive. The new Space Domain zone showcases low-Earth-orbit satellite clusters and space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. Meanwhile, Integration Zones will demonstrate how air, land, and sea assets communicate and coordinatethe critical interoperability challenge facing modern militaries. Perhaps most intriguing is the Future Defense Lab, where startups and research organizations will demonstrate emerging technologies in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced materials. These never-before-seen systems suggest Saudi Arabias ambitions extend beyond acquiring current-generation hardware to shaping next-generation capabilities. Live Demonstrations Bring Concepts to Life The exhibition makes extensive use of a 2,700-meter runway and purpose-built land demonstration track. Daily flying displays will feature the Saudi Hawks aerobatic team alongside frontline combat aircraft, including the Eurofighter Typhoon, Rafale C, and JF-17 Thunder. Boeing is expected to showcase its F-15E fighter, KC-46A tanker, AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, and CH-47 Chinook. On the ground, armored fighting vehicles, mobile artillery, and ground-based air defense systems will conduct dynamic runs under realistic terrain conditions. Synchronized air-land sequences will demonstrate command-and-control integration, while official delegations will have opportunities for hands-on evaluation in the off-road zone. National and International System Debuts SAMI is preparing to unveil what it describes as national systems in advanced electronics and land platforms. The company will provide updates on its futuristic unmanned combat aerial vehicle concept and showcase MRN Systems Multipurpose Drone System. International participants are bringing significant new capabilities. Russias Rostec will debut the Sarma multiple launch rocket system with automated guidance, alongside a 30mm air-burst munition designed specifically for counter-drone operations. The Czech Republics CSG Group will present the Pandur 88 EVO infantry fighting vehicle and ReTwis 5+, a portable radar capable of detecting personnel through non-metallic walls. Turkiyes defense industry will showcase the ALPIN 2, a next-generation rotary-wing UAV with enhanced altitude performance and cargo-carrying capability. American firms L3Harris and Lockheed Martin will present counter-UAS systems, electronic warfare suites, and components for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. BAE Systems will introduce Azalea, a constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites designed for space-based intelligence and multi-domain integration. A Strategic Demonstration With over 50 Chinese firms, including CATIC and NORINCO, joining the massive international contingent, WDS 2026 positions Riyadh as a central node in the global defense supply chain. The emphasis on artificial intelligence, autonomous swarming, and localized production signals that this is less a conventional trade show than a strategic demonstration of what Saudi officials call the Kingdoms architecture of integration. Whether Saudi Arabia can achieve its 50% localization target by 2030 remains unclear. But as the exhibition opens tomorrow, the direction is clear: the Kingdom is building the partnerships, infrastructure, and industrial base to transform how it provides for its own defense. For the 925 exhibitors converging on Riyadh, WDS 2026 represents both an opportunity and a test: can traditional defense relationships adapt to a future in which todays customers become tomorrows competitors and collaborators? Bareilly, Feb 9 : All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi welcomed some recent remarks by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat while flagging some issues concerning the Muslim community in the country. Speaking to IANS, Maulana Razvi said that the RSS chief's statement about having three children has actually strengthened the position of the Muslim community. He said that having children or not is one of Allahas greatest blessings, and no one has the right to question it. Those who repeatedly raise objections over Muslims having three or four children should carefully listen to and read Bhagwatas statement, he said. On the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), he maintained that the provisions related to the UCC in the Constitution are clear and justified. According to the Constitution, public opinion must be sought in states where the UCC is to be implemented, and it cannot be enforced without public consent. Citing Uttarakhand as an example, he said that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formed the Justice Ranjana Desai Committee to draft the Uniform Civil Code, but the committee did not take the views of Scheduled Tribes, tribal communities, or minorities. He alleged that the UCC was implemented unilaterally in Uttarakhand, which is against constitutional procedures. Laws cannot be made in India in such a manner, and if such authoritarianism is adopted, it would not only go against the basic structure of the Constitution but would also weaken democratic values, he asserted. Targeting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Maulana Razvi alleged that he is openly indulging in anti-Muslim rhetoric and continuously spewing hatred against Muslims. He claimed that the Chief Minister wants to weaken the economic condition of Muslims and cited Sarmaas remark suggesting that a rickshaw puller from the community asking for five rupees should be paid only four. Such statements, he said, promote hatred and division in society. Maulana Razvi also alleged that a controversial video linked to the Assam Chief Minister was an attempt to stifle democracy and mock democratic values, adding that such politics cannot work in a democratic country. Referring to Bhagwatas statement that India is incomplete without Muslims, Razvi said the Assam Chief Minister continues to reject such views and instead makes provocative and inflammatory remarks against Muslims. He demanded that the Supreme Court take suo motu cognisance of the matter and initiate action. Jaipur, Feb 9 : The Rajasthan government, on Monday, issued a comprehensive advisory to create public awareness about cybersecurity and cyber hygiene, urging citizens to remain vigilant against rising cases of digital arrest scams and call forwarding frauds, government officials said. Jaipur, Feb 9 (IANS) The Rajasthan government, on Monday, issued a comprehensive advisory to create public awareness about cybersecurity and cyber hygiene, urging citizens to remain vigilant against rising cases ofA digital arrest scamsA andA call forwarding frauds, government officials said. In a digital arrest scam, cybercriminals impersonate officials from law enforcement or investigative agencies such as the Police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Narcotics Department, or other government bodies. Victims are intimidated through phone or video calls and coerced into paying money by threatening fake legal action, officials added. Fraudsters contact victims via Interactive Voice Response calls, phone calls, or video calls, falsely claiming to be officials from agencies such as the Police, CBI, ED, Federal Bureau of Investigation, or the Department of Telecommunications. In some cases, the fraudsters use fake police station setups, uniforms, and official-looking backgrounds to appear credible, officials said. "Victims are falsely accused of serious offences such as sending narcotics, fake passports, or illegal SIM cards through courier services (for example, FedEx/DHL) and make misuse of Aadhaar or bank accounts. They (online fraudsters) also indulge in money laundering or terrorist financing," they added. "In certain cases, scammers threaten to implicate a family member in an accident or criminal case. Victims are often forced to stay continuously on video calls via WhatsApp, Skype, or similar platforms to prevent them from contacting others. Money is then demanded in the name of settlement, avoiding arrest, keeping the matter out of the media, or as fines or "verification charges"," officials said. Police officials shared important facts, saying that no law enforcement agency carries out arrests digitally, no government official demands money over phone or video calls and no official investigation is conducted through WhatsApp, Skype, or Telegram. Patna, Feb 9 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised a grand felicitation ceremony at Bapu Auditorium in Patna on Sunday to honour its newly appointed national president, Nitin Nabin. Party workers accorded him a rousing welcome, waving saffron scarves as he arrived at the venue. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, with the song "ModiNitish ki jodi" playing in the background as leaders welcomed him from the stage. Addressing the gathering, Nitin Nabin said that political parties that revolve only around individuals and dynasties cannot secure a bright future for Bihar or the country. Recalling his political journey, Nabin said it has been nearly 20 years since he entered politics in 2006, following the death of his father. He shared that it was the then Bihar BJP president Radha Mohan Singh who first encouraged him to contest elections, and that he received guidance and blessings from the then national president Rajnath Singh, along with the support of the entire party organisation. Expressing gratitude, Nitin Nabin said he was thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially from the land of Bihar, and assured that he would work relentlessly to strengthen the trust placed in him. He described the visit as his first visit to Patna after becoming the BJP national president. The BJP chief also thanked the people of Bihar for repeatedly giving him the opportunity to serve as a Member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly. Recalling his long association with the party's youth wing, Nabin said he always advised young workers not to take shortcuts in politics. "Politics is not a short-term race; it is a long journey. If we want to realise Prime Minister Modi's vision and build the India of his dreams, then every one of us must work sincerely and tirelessly in our own time," he said. Highlighting the BJP's ideological foundation, Nitin Nabin said Shyama Prasad Mukherjee laid the foundation of nationalism, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya introduced the philosophy of Antyodayaupliftment of the poorestand Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave the mantra of good governance. He added that today's BJP governments are guided by the combined ideals of these three great leaders, and are committed to inclusive development, nationalism, and transparent governance. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening received a phone call from Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam as the two leaders reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between both countries ahead of their meeting during the next week's AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. "Happy to receive a phone call from my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We reviewed progress in the wide-ranging cooperation between India and Mauritius since our memorable meeting in Varanasi last year," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call. "Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the special, historic and people-centric ties that unite our two nations. India and Mauritius will continue to work together to achieve shared objectives of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. I look forward to welcoming him to India for the AI Impact Summit next week," he added. India and Mauritius share a close and special relationship rooted in shared historical, cultural and people to people ties. As India's key maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Mauritius holds a special place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and the aNeighbourhood First Policya and is a key partner in the Global South. Following PM Modi's visit to Mauritius in March 2025, Ramgoolam undertook a State Visit to India in September 2025 which was his first overseas bilateral visit in his present term. Prime Minister Modi and his counterpart from Mauritius had held delegation-level talks in Varanasi where both sides comprehensively reviewed the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between both countries and identified new opportunities to deepen collaboration across sectors of mutual interest that will drive shared prosperity for both countries, their peoples, and the region. "It is a matter of pride for India to be a trusted and primary partner in Mauritius' development. Today, we have decided on a Special Economic Package keeping in mind the needs and priorities of Mauritius. It will strengthen infrastructure, create new employment opportunities and strengthen health facilities," PM Modi said while addressing a joint press meet alongside Ramgoolam during which he announced India's special economic package for Mauritius that supports infrastructure, employment and healthcare sectors. "The first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India has now been established in Mauritius. Today, we have decided that India will support the construction of AYUSH Centre of Excellence 500-bed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National (SSRN) Hospital and Veterinary School and Animal Hospital in Mauritius. We will also take forward projects like the Chagos Marine Protected Area, the ATC tower of the SSR International Airport and the expansion of the highway and ring road. This package is not an assistance, it is an investment in our shared future," he added. PM Modi had also announced that India's IIT Madras and Indian Institute of Plantation Management have signed agreements with the University of Mauritius and stressed that these agreements will take mutual partnership in research, education and innovation to a new level. Welcoming the Mauritian leader to Varanasi, PM Modi said, "It is a matter of pride for me to welcome you in my parliamentary constituency. For centuries, Kashi has been a symbol of Indiaas civilization and culture. Our traditions and values reached Mauritius centuries ago and became deeply rooted in its way of life. And today, when we welcome friends from Mauritius in Kashi, it is not just a formality but a spiritual union. That is why I proudly say that India and Mauritius are not just partners but a family." "Mauritius is an important pillar of Indiaas Neighbourhood First policy and Vision Mahasagar. In March, I had the privilege of attending the National Day celebrations of Mauritius. At that time, we gave our relations the status of Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Today, we have reviewed all aspects of bilateral cooperation in detail. We also exchanged views on regional and global issues," he had added. --IANS /as -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Dibrugarh, Feb 9 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said he was prepared to face arrest after AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi reportedly filed a case against him over a now-deleted video, asserting that he stood firmly by his position against what he described as Bangladeshi infiltration. Responding to media queries in Dibrugarh, the Chief Minister said he had no objection if legal action was taken against him. "I am ready to go to jail. What can I do? I do not know anything about any video. If he has filed a case against me, arrest me. What objection do I have?" Sarma said. However, the Chief Minister maintained that his stand on the issue of infiltration would remain unchanged. "I stand by my words. I am against Bangladeshi infiltrators and I will continue to be against them," he added. The remarks came amid political sparring between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) over issues related to immigration, citizenship and identity politics in Assam. While details of the complaint filed by Owaisi were not immediately available, it is understood to be linked to a video statement that was later removed from social media platforms. The Chief Minister has repeatedly asserted that protecting Assam's demographic balance and safeguarding the rights of indigenous people remain key priorities of his government. He has also maintained that action against illegal infiltration is taken strictly within the framework of the Constitution and existing laws. Political observers see the latest exchange as part of a broader national debate over migration and citizenship, particularly in border states like Assam, where the issue has long remained a sensitive political and social concern. Opposition parties, meanwhile, have accused the BJP of using inflammatory rhetoric to polarise voters, an allegation the ruling party has consistently denied. The state government has maintained that its measures are aimed solely at identifying and deporting illegal immigrants, without targeting any particular community. No official response from the AIMIM was available at the time of filing this report. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Monday appealed to voters to reject hate politics in the February 11 municipal elections in the state. Addressing a press conference, he launched a scathing attack on the BJP, accusing it of practising divisive politics and stoking communal hatred. The Chief Minister alleged that the BJP was using leaders of some parties, like AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, as a 'political scarecrow' to get votes. He remarked that the BJP is obsessed with Asaduddin Owaisi. "They claim to chant Lord Ram's name, but every day invoking Asaduddin Owaisi. Their lifeline is Asaduddin Owaisi," he said. Revanth Reddy said that if the BJP feels that Asaduddin Owaisi is so 'wicked', why was it not able to control him despite being in power at the Centre? "AIMIM is also a political party in the democracy. It contested elections in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and other states. How long are you going to seek votes by projecting them as a ghost?" he asked. The Congress leader alleged that this is proof of the BJP's political bankruptcy. Referring to BJP president Nitin Nabin's speech at an election rally in Mahabubnagar, the Chief Minister criticised him for seeking votes in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He recalled that Narendra Modi, then chief minister of Gujarat, had come to Mahabubnagar for an election campaign and had promised to grant national status to the Palamuru-Rangareddy project. Even after becoming the Prime Minister three times, he failed to fulfil the promise. CM Revanth Reddy took strong exception to the BJP leaders for chanting Modi slogans during the election campaign. "What does Modi have to do with a local election?" he asked. He alleged that the BJP, which has been in power at the Centre for 12 years, did not approve even one project for Telangana, but its leaders are appealing to people to vote for the party by seeing PM Modi. "They cancelled the Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) project, which was approved for Telangana. PM Modi put pressure to take away the semiconductor project from Telangana to Andhra Pradesh," he said. Revanth Reddy also accused the BJP of discrimination against southern states. He claimed that for every one rupee that Telangana sends in the form of taxes, the Centre is paying it only 42 paise. Karnataka receives 16 paise, Tamil Nadu receives 26 paise, and Kerala gets 49 paise, but Bihar gets Rs 6.16 for every rupee which it gives to the Centre. Madhya Pradesh receives Rs 2.09, and Uttar Pradesh gets Rs 2.90, he said. He wanted to know why Central ministers from Telangana, G. Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, never spoke on the injustice to Telangana. He also accused the BJP government at the Centre of not taking any steps to bring former chief of Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) and key accused in phone-tapping case Prabhakar Rao to India for 20 months. He said it was only at the direction of the Supreme Court that Rao (Prabhakar Rao) was brought to India from the US. The Chief Minister urged people to reject both the BJP and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). He said BRS, which failed to do anything despite being in power for 10 years, is now asking for votes. He slammed BRS president and former chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) for not raising even one public issue in the Assembly as the leader of the opposition. "He has been drawing salary and perks for 25-26 months, took the position of leader of opposition and enjoying the power of Cabinet rank but not even once he came to Assembly and raised any public issue," he said. Revanth Reddy said other BRS leaders who were coming to the Assembly were only trying to stall the proceedings. He remarked that the manner in which BRS leaders speak publicly makes one wonder if they are under the influence of drugs. "Sometimes I feel I should send the EAGLE team to conduct narco analysis on them." Abu Dhabi, Feb 9 : The leaders of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt met Monday to call for a permanent end to the fighting in Gaza, emphasising that the "two-state solution" remains the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi met in Abu Dhabi against a backdrop of regional tension. According to the UAE's state news agency WAM, the two leaders stressed the urgent need to secure a lasting ceasefire and ensure that humanitarian aid can reach civilians in Gaza without obstacles. In a statement released by the Egyptian presidency, the leaders warned against further escalation, noting that a wider conflict would have "repercussions for all," and argued that regional stability depends on protecting the "unity and territorial integrity" of Middle Eastern states, Xinhua news agency reported. They also reaffirmed their commitment to "peaceful means" as the primary tool for resolving the region's overlapping crisis. Beyond the crisis in Gaza, the two leaders discussed ways to deepen economic ties. Sheikh Mohamed took al-Sisi on a tour of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, an institution at the heart of the UAE's push to become a global tech hub. The UAE has been a key source of foreign investment for Egypt. In 2024, the UAE announced a landmark 35-billion-U.S.-dollar deal to develop a massive stretch of Egypt's Mediterranean coast, a project that injected foreign currency and helped stabilise the Egyptian pound. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty had on Sunday called for the immediate deployment of an international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Abdelatty made the appeal during a phone call with his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, as the two diplomats discussed escalating regional tensions, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Abdelatty emphasised the critical need to advance the second phase of the US-proposed peace plan, including deploying the International Stabilization Force to Gaza, which was endorsed by the UN Security Council in November last year. He reiterated Egypt's support for the newly formed Palestinian technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, describing it as a vital transitional body to address daily administrative and humanitarian needs. The committee, established in mid-January, is intended to pave the way for the Palestinian Authority's full return to governance in the territory, he affirmed. The minister also stressed the importance of ensuring a continuous flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and laying the groundwork for early recovery and reconstruction. The current ceasefire, in effect since October 10, has initially focused on prisoner exchanges and aid delivery. The proposed next phase envisions a full Israeli military withdrawal, the disarmament of Hamas, and the start of reconstruction under transitional governance. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Jaipur, Feb 9 : Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) President and Nagaur Lok Sabha MP, Hanuman Beniwal, on Monday, raised a query in the Lok Sabha regarding GST reforms on personal life insurance and health insurance policies. He said that despite the Union government reducing GST to zero on these insurance products, insurance companies in Rajasthan and several other states have increased base premiums by 8 to 12 per cent. Nagaur MP Beniwal asked the Union government on what concrete action plan it has to curb this arbitrary practice by insurance companies. Replying on behalf of the Union Finance Ministry, Minister of State (MoS) Pankaj Chaudhary said that, as per the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), a one-day, in-person meeting with insurance companies was held on September 17, 2025, to ensure full transmission of GST relief. Insurance companies were strongly instructed to pass on the complete benefit to policyholders, the MoS added. He also informed that the IRDAI collected prevailing premium rates as of September 3, 2025, and has been regularly monitoring premiums for new policies as well as renewals to ensure that insured individuals receive the intended benefit. According to IRDAI, in January 2026, all general and health insurance companies confirmed that they had not revised premiums upward after the Union government's GST relief announcement and that the full benefit had been passed on to policyholders. The MoS also clarified that for life insurance policies, premiums and benefits once fixed under a policy cannot be altered during the policy tenure. Nagaur MP Beniwal said that the removal of GST on health insurance should have directly benefited the common people, not insurance companies. "However, immediately after GST removal, insurance companies increased base premiums by 8 to 12 per cent in Rajasthan and other states, which is a clear betrayal of public trust and a misuse of the Union government's policy decision." He emphasised that health insurance is not a luxury but a necessity, as illness already weakens individuals financially and mentally. The profit-driven policies of insurance companies are further burdening the common man, the RLP President said. The Nagaur MP added that while GST relief was meant for consumers, insurance companies found ways to neutralise its impact, which is against public interest. He also asserted that the benefits of government reforms are being limited only to corporate profits, a reality the Union government is unwilling to acknowledge. He urged that IRDAI must exercise strict oversight and take firm action against the arbitrary practices of insurance companies. Bengaluru, Feb 9 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on Monday that he will meet senior Congress leaders and other Union ministers to discuss developmental projects for the state. "I am meeting Congress leaders who have called me to Delhi. During my Delhi visit, apart from political meetings, I will also be meeting Union Jal Shakti Ministry officials and legal experts," he said. On March 10, Shivakumar will complete six years as the president of the Karnataka Congress. "It is my duty to meet our MPs and party leaders. I keep meeting them, and during those meetings I share my difficulties, concerns, anger, as well as your happiness and aspirations," he said. Shivakumar said he will leave for Delhi with the Chief Minister's permission. Meanwhile, Shivakumar loyalist MLA Iqbal Hussain has urged Siddaramaiah to allow Shivakumar to lead the state. "You speak of equality and socialism; this is the time to put that ideology into practice," Hussain said. Senior Congress H.C. Balakrishna also said that the changes are bound to happen and nobody can stop them. "When a decision is taken, the matter will be settled," Balakrishna said. Shivakumar, who is also the Bengaluru Urban Development Minister, speaking to the media at Vidhana Soudha after distributing khata certificates to beneficiaries who had completed khata conversion, stated that a total of 25 lakh properties across Bengaluru city have been digitised so far. "Nine lakh e-khatas have been issued to citizens. All municipal corporations have been instructed to launch a special free e-khata drive," he said. Shivakumar added that the digitisation of property records is one of the most important decisions of this year, as this issue had never come to the forefront for the past 50 years. "Earlier, the Bhoomi project was introduced to digitise agricultural land. We have now embarked on digitising all property records in Bengaluru by scanning documents and introducing the e-khata system. Our objective is to prevent tax leakage. We have enabled verification through the Kaveri software at sub-registrar offices. In addition, arrangements have been made to link every document with Aadhaar," he said. Shivakumar said that anyone can obtain an e-khata without paying a single rupee in bribe. "I have instructed that khata certificates should be delivered to people's doorsteps. This is one of the most satisfying decisions of my life. Many people did not even know in whose name their properties were registered," he said. He further pointed out that, seeing this work, the Central government has issued appreciation letters to our officials. "This is a scheme to issue A-khata through the Uniform Land Record Management System for those holding B-khata. Already, 7,000 applications have been received, and lakhs more are expected," he said. Shivakumar added that for those who have already applied, the state government has set a 15-day timeline for conversion from B-khata to A-khata. Officials will conduct site inspections while issuing khatas. Bengaluru, Feb 9 : Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil said on Monday that as part of efforts to strengthen the market presence of products manufactured by the state-owned Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), the two-year tenure of renowned film actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the company's brand ambassador will commence from Tuesday. On the same occasion, the iconic heritage product Mysuru Sandal Soap will be relaunched with a refreshed and contemporary look, the Minister added. Speaking on Monday in Bengaluru, the Minister said that KSDL has set a target of scaling up its annual turnover to Rs 5,000 crore by 2030. "In line with this objective, a comprehensive promotional campaign is being undertaken to reach the youth." Actress Tamannaah Bhatia, who enjoys considerable star appeal and has more than three million followers on social media, has been engaged as part of this strategy. "The initiative is expected to help create a strong market for the company's products, including Mysuru Sandal Soap, in North India as well," Minister Patil said. KSDL has a rich legacy spanning over a century. The enterprise was established with the vision of the Maharaja of Mysuru, Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the then Diwan Sir M. Visvesvaraya, and industrial chemist S.G. Shastri, popularly known as 'Soap Shastri'. "The organisation, which is witnessing healthy turnover and profits, recorded all-time high production last month across its three divisions -- soaps, detergents and cosmetics," Minister Patil said. "At present, the organisation manufactures a total of 57 premium products, ranging from Mysuru Sandal Soap to packaged drinking water. As brand ambassador, Tamannaah Bhatia will feature in advertisements, promotional campaigns and related programmes for KSDL products. It has also been ensured that during the two-year tenure beginning from February 10, 2026, she will not endorse similar products of other private companies," the Minister added. "There is strong demand for the organisation's products such as shower gels, talcum powder, hand wash, agarbatis, sambrani, dhoop, Millennium Soap and bathing soaps. Promotional videos and other campaign material will be released to coincide with the commencement of the brand ambassador's tenure. In addition, production units will soon be commissioned in the Vijayapura and Dabaspete industrial areas, with the necessary procedures currently underway. Plans are also in place to double the export turnover, which presently stands at around Rs 25a"30 crore," Minister Patil said. Speaking on the occasion, KSDL Chairman C.S. Appaji Nadagouda said that production activities are being carried out using existing machinery, without purchasing any new equipment. "To facilitate this, a strict three-shift work system has been implemented. Markets in Europe and West Asia are also being explored, and efforts are underway to ensure that KSDL products reach non-resident Kannadigas as well," he added. KSDL Managing Director Prashanth said that the menace of counterfeit Mysuru Sandal Soap has been effectively curbed. "While KSDL products are currently more popular in South India, greater emphasis is now being placed on market expansion in regions such as Delhi and Central India." "The organisation's turnover is expected to touch Rs 2,000 crore in 2025a"26." The controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia and Mysore Sandal Soap erupted in May 2025 after the Karnataka government appointed the actress as brand ambassador for a Rs 6.2 crore, two-year deal, sparking backlash from Kannada activists and social media users, who felt local talent was overlooked. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar said on Monday that the saffron wave is inevitable in the municipal elections in Telangana. Hitting back at Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the BJP leader posted on social media that the saffron wave is inevitable and that the Chief Minister knows it. "His frustrated media interaction said it all. It increasingly appears that the CM's script is being drafted in Darussalam. The language and political narrative of Asaduddin Owaisi and the CM are the same," he said. The MoS alleged that a big deal was struck for the Karimnagar mayor post. "Wasn't there an understanding to hand over the Karimnagar mayor's chair to AIMIM? Who is the cobra and who is the rat-snake will be clear once the results are out," he said. On Revanth Reddy's allegation that the Centre has given nothing to Telangana during the last 12 years, Bandi Sanjay said that people clearly know what the Centre has delivered to Telangana. He alleged that, except for Central funds, the CM has not released a single rupee in two years to municipalities, panchayats, or corporations. "During the campaign, people are openly questioning what happened to Congress's promises. Municipalities were created without even basic civic facilities. Congress came to power on tall promises, but in just two years, its reality stands fully exposed. CM continues to make irresponsible and empty statements," he said. Bandi Sanjay also slammed the Congress government over its handling of the phone-tapping case investigation. "Not a single arrest has been made in the phone-tapping case. The CM lacks the courage to file a counter in the Supreme Court. Why is the investigation being delayed, and why hasn't the CM written to the Enforcement Directorate? The CM should openly state that he has no courage to act against the KCR family. Who allowed Prabhakar Rao to escape due to sheer incompetence?" he asked while reacting to Revanth Reddy's allegation that the BJP government at the Centre did nothing to bring back Prabhakar Rao, former chief of Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) and key accused in the case. Meanwhile, state BJP chief N. Ramchander Rao stated that the continuous ranting and nervous reactions of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy only expose the Congress party's growing panic. "His statements against Modi ji and our leaders are born out of fear of the BJP's rising acceptance among the people of Telangana," he said in a post on X. The BJP leader claimed that over the last 12 years, the BJP-led Central Government has allocated more than Rs 12 lakh crore to Telangana through various schemes, infrastructure projects, welfare initiatives, and devolution of funds. "Yet, despite this undeniable support, the Chief Minister continues to mislead the people with blatant lies. This is a local body election, and instead of indulging in baseless allegations against the Government of India, Revanth Reddy must answer a simple question: What has the Congress government done for Telangana? - Where are the much-publicised six guarantees? - Where are the promises made in the Congress manifesto? - Why is there no governance and development in our municipalities? The truth is that the Telangana Congress is rattled by the BJP's strong performance and growing grassroots presence in municipal elections," Ramchander Rao added. --IANS ms/uk -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Bhopal, Feb 9 : With the annual examinations for Class 10 and Class 12 students under the Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE) set to begin from Tuesday (February 10), Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Monday held an interactive session with students at a government school in Bhopal. Addressing the programme titled 'Dialogue on Exams 2026', Chief Minister Yadav advised students to remain stress-free during examinations, focus on time management and develop self-confidence. He also advised students to discuss subjects from the curriculum with their friends and teachers, saying that such interaction would help improve preparation ahead of the examinations. "All students should get enough sleep during exam time. They should set a study schedule. After studying a subject, they should make it a habit to reflect on it," Yadav said. On the occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with students, listened to their queries and advised them to move forward in building their future with a positive mindset. Responding to a question from a student, Lakshmi Tiwari, Yadav advised children to communicate openly with their parents and share their problems. "Today's students are the future of the country. They will be the ones to lead the nation in the coming years. Therefore, all students should continuously improve their skills, knowledge and performance to refine themselves," he said. Madhya Pradesh School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh and senior officials from the department also attended the programme organised at the government-run Subhash Excellence School in Bhopal. According to the MPBSE notification, students have been instructed to report to their respective examination centres by 8 a.m. Entry to the examination hall will be closed 15 minutes after the commencement of the exam, and question papers will be distributed five minutes before the start time. The board examinations for Class 12 students will begin on Tuesday (February 10), while those for Class 10 students will start from February 13. To ensure that the examinations are fair, transparent and free from cheating, the MPBSE has issued strict guidelines. Notably, no student will be allowed to leave the examination hall during the first two hours after the exam begins. Itanagar, Feb 9 : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday said that the significant transformation witnessed across the state over the past decade is the result of collective efforts by the state government, elected representatives, officials and central agencies under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating the Tsari Taksing Gajang Shedup Dargeyling Monastery at Taksing, a remote border village in Upper Subansiri district along the Tibet-China frontier. Reaffirming the government's commitment to accelerating development, connectivity and livelihood opportunities in frontier areas, Khandu described the occasion as historic, noting that such a large public gathering was being witnessed for the first time in Taksing's history. He lauded the Nah Welfare Society, local leaders and the district administration for successfully organising the programme despite the logistical challenges posed by the region's remoteness. The Chief Minister said that more than 40 developmental initiatives, including inaugurations and foundation stone laying, were undertaken during the visit in the Nacho Assembly constituency, reflecting the rapid pace of infrastructure growth in the district. Highlighting connectivity as the backbone of development, Khandu recalled that Taksing was once accessible only by helicopter due to the absence of road links. He said road connectivity was achieved in 2019 following sustained coordination with the Government of India and the Border Roads Organisation, ushering in socio-economic transformation in the region. Referring to the Trans-Arunachal Highway, he said the nearly 1,800-km corridor from Tawang to Longding has significantly reduced travel time and improved access to district headquarters across the state, citing examples where journeys that earlier took over 12 hours can now be completed in around five hours. The Chief Minister also spoke about the upcoming Frontier Highway, a strategic border road project approved by the Government of India. He informed that tendering is underway for several stretches, including the Sarli-Taliha and Taliha-Tato segments in Upper Subansiri district, and urged public cooperation to ensure smooth and transparent implementation. Emphasising zero tolerance towards corruption, Khandu warned that delays or irregularities in land compensation and project execution would harm public interest. He referred to action taken in certain eastern stretches of the Trans-Arunachal Highway, where investigations were initiated and strict measures enforced to ensure accountability. On border area development, the Chief Minister said the Vibrant Villages Programme, launched from Arunachal Pradesh in 2021, has brought tangible benefits to frontier regions by improving road connectivity, livelihoods and basic infrastructure. He also underscored the importance of coordination between the civil administration, the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police to build sustainable development models in border villages. Announcing plans to develop Taksing as a tourism circuit, Khandu highlighted its historical and religious significance in Buddhism. He said Taksing is a sacred pilgrimage site associated with the ancient Tsari (Rong Kora), which attracted pilgrims from Tibet and other regions until the mid-20th century, adding that efforts are underway, in consultation with the Army and the Government of India, to revive the pilgrimage in a regulated manner. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Bengaluru, Feb 9 : The credit war over halting the Bengaluru Metro fare hike erupted between the Congress-led government in Karnataka and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday. The BJP has claimed that the Metro fare hike was put on hold due to the intervention of Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. However, the Congress-led government in Karnataka has said that the decision was taken by the state government. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, while speaking over the controversy surrounding the proposed hike in Namma Metro fares and then the halt on it, claimed, "The Congress-led Karnataka government has taken the decision to halt the Metro fare hike. The letter sent by the Central government has no value." "There is no politics involved here. The Central government has no authority to issue directions or interfere in this matter. I have instructed officials to recalculate fares afresh in accordance with the formula followed by the Delhi Metro," he said. "I thought a meeting would be convened in Delhi on the Metro fare hike. I was waiting to see what orders would be issued after the meeting and what kind of politics would be played. Politics has overtaken facts in this matter. That is why I remained silent. The Delhi meeting has now been postponed. Those claiming a temporary victory should have convened a board meeting and issued directions today," he added. Responding to allegations that the state government had sought a fare hike, Shivakumar said, "The Central government may have written a letter asking that the fare hike be halted, but even they have no legal authority to do so. If they can state under which law or Act they have written the letter, we will accept it. If a fresh decision has to be taken, a new fare fixation committee must be constituted. I am working to be the voice of our people." "Based on my political experience and after discussions with Metro corporations of other states, subject experts and Central government experts, it is clear that until a new committee is formed, the Central government has no authority to make such recommendations. A new committee alone will issue directions. It is not that those who wrote the letter are unaware of this; I do not consider them fools. Local MPs may speak on this issue, but they too have to manage all states. Some people are taking names based on the letter that has been written, but that is not possible. We did not ask for a fare hike. The earlier committee's decision was implemented," he added. When asked about claims that certain individuals were responsible for halting the fare hike, the Deputy Chief Minister said, "Anyone can take credit if they want. Ultimately, what matters is that it benefits the people. I am not fighting for war credit. I am fighting so that people benefit. The burden should not fall on commuters or the Metro organisation. I am not working under anyone's pressure. In the end, both BMRCL and the people must survive." "We were neither consulted nor spoken to regarding the fare hike. No discussion took place now. The decision to increase fares was not taken recently; it was taken a year ago. On February 9, 2025, the fare revision committee had ordered a five per cent hike to be implemented on February 9, 2026. The fare hike was carried out accordingly. Those who are speaking now did not raise any objections then. The people of Bengaluru accepted it with dignity," Shivakumar said. "We have now taken a decision at the state government and official level regarding halting the fare hike. BMRCL has three main criteria for fare revision -- OMR costs, changes in CPI, staff costs, per-unit cost and fuel costs. Based on these parameters, the state government has guided officials to recalculate the fares once again. Until then, I have instructed that the fare hike be put on hold," he added. "Some say our Metro fares are higher compared to other cities. For example, in Delhi, security responsibilities are under the Central government and handled by the CISF. Here, we bear the security responsibility ourselves. Additionally, we also pay GST. The state government has paid Rs 1,064.32 crore towards cash loss reimbursement. We have paid Rs 4,002.23 crore to the Central government towards loan repayment. In total, Rs 5,066.55 crore has been paid," Shivakumar said. When asked how long the fare hike would remain suspended, he said, "Everything has stages. I cannot say it will be resolved in one or two days. Just as other metros move at a certain speed, our Metro will move at the same pace." Asked why politics was being played only in Bengaluru despite metros operating in several cities, Shivakumar said, "Here, there are only cameras, voices and microphones. Has anyone spoken like this in Delhi, Mumbai or Hyderabad? No one has. One MP is arguing, and you in the media keep flashing his photo," he remarked. Reacting to BJP leader R. Ashoka's demand that a letter be written to the Centre saying that the state government had no role in the fare hike, Shivakumar said, "He can say whatever he wants before the media. If he tells me what he wants, I will respond accordingly." When asked whether he would press for the formation of a new fare fixation committee, he said, "For now, I will not get into that confusion. Within the authority of the state government, CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar will do whatever is possible. This is our land. We are finding a way to help our commuters." Asked whether people could expect a five per cent fare reduction, he said, "I have instructed that a fresh calculation be done. In any organisation, expenditure patterns change. Similarly, here there are factors such as fuel price increases and other cost variables." On whether fare revision falls under the jurisdiction of the Central or state government, Shivakumar said, "It does not come under the jurisdiction of either. It comes under the fare revision committee. Earlier, state government representatives were part of the committee; now they are not." Asked whether fares could be revised under the old committee, he added, "There is no authority to do so. Until a new committee is formed, neither the Centre, nor the state government, nor BMRCL has the authority." -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed the people of Maharashtra for once again endorsing the "Bharatiya Janata Party and its Mahayuti" alliance in the recently concluded Zilla Parishad elections. In a post on X, the Prime Minister described the results as a clear mandate for good governance and an alliance rooted in the state's rich cultural heritage. The BJP-led Mahayuti, which includes the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and the Nationalist Congress Party under Ajit Pawar, secured a decisive win, claiming 552 out of 731 Zilla Parishad seats. The alliance also captured over 1,000 of the 1,462 Panchayat Samiti seats, according to the State Election Commission. Within the coalition, the BJP emerged as the largest contributor with 225 seats, followed by the NCP with 165 and Shiv Sena with 162. This performance builds on the alliance's earlier successes in the 2024 Assembly elections as well as recent municipal corporation and municipal council polls held in phases through late 2025 and early 2026. Prime Minister Modi expressed deep gratitude to the "sisters and brothers of Maharashtra" for their continued support. He emphasised that the verdict reflects a widespread desire across both rural and urban areas for effective administration and development aligned with the state's glorious traditions. He extended special compliments to every Mahayuti worker who campaigned tirelessly on the ground, highlighting the Maharashtra Government's achievements and the NDA's broader vision for progress and welfare. The results showed the ruling alliance's dominance in local governance following its strong showing in urban civic bodies, where it won majorities in key municipal corporations, including Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and others. Voter turnout in the Zilla Parishad polls stood at around 68.28 percent indicating robust participation. This latest triumph reinforces the Mahayuti's momentum in Maharashtra, strengthening its position at the grassroots level. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis earlier noted that the outcome demonstrates public confidence in the alliance's performance across urban, semi-urban and rural regions. -- Syndicated from IANS Technology Maxcalling joins EquityPilot to scale Business Creation in Three Easy Steps Mobile app Pune, India & Dubai, UAE Jan 12, 2026 Indias mobile economy and in-app purchase growth continue to create new pathways for micro-entrepreneurship. As more first-time founders seek low-friction ways to convert ideas into businesses, tools that simplify formation, operations, and data privacy become critical to unlocking broad-based participation in the formal economy. What the Startup Delivers? Maxcalling Software Technologies Private Limited has built Ice Magic, a lightweight iOS and Android app that translates the process of starting a business into three easy steps. The product emphasizes contact management, calendaring and task workflows designed for beginners, and ships with an architecture intended to accelerate new product delivery. Key traction points include more than 17,000 app installs and proprietary copyright and exclusive IP commercialization rights for ten years. The company is raising $500K at a $4M valuation and has secured $36K on CCDs under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme. Why Now? Recent regulatory and privacy developments, combined with continued growth in mobile app monetization, create a window for focused execution on privacy-first, mobile-native business tools. Maxcallings simplified onboarding flow and product positioning for first-time business creators address a recognizable market friction: starting a business is perceived as complex, preventing many potential entrepreneurs from taking the first step. Program Plan (first 3060 days) Through EquityPilot, Maxcalling will concentrate on: validating high-conversion acquisition channels for early adopters; refining onboarding flows and privacy controls to meet India-specific compliance needs; and building community-driven learning loops to increase retention. The initial 60-day plan focuses on measurable KPIs: activation rate improvements, a clear path to paid subscriptions at $1.99/month for Ice Magic, and a prioritized product backlog to reduce time-to-market for new modules. Leadership Comment Hesham Zreik, Founder and CEO of FasterCapital, said: Were excited to support Maxcalling Software Technologies Private Limited through EquityPilot. Our team will focus on execution milestones and connecting the startup with the right ecosystem stakeholders. (See Hesham Zreik at https://fastercapital.com) Founder background Yash Sharma, Director & CEO, brings ten years of experience building a bootstrapped video conferencing business and holds a BE IT from Pune University. Manika Gaur, Director & PR, seasoned media professional with two decades of experience, brings expertise in creative communications, audio-visual production, and social media strategy. Leadership is supported by Advocate Keshav Thakur, a Senior Supreme Court lawyer, who serves as advisor to the company, ensuring attention to end-user data protection and regulatory compliance. Competitive landscape Maxcalling competes indirectly with large consumer platforms and online learning marketplaces that do not target first-time founders with a privacy-first, mobile-native product. Its subscription-driven model and India-jurisdiction data controls seek to differentiate on ease-of-use and regulatory alignment. Next 90 Days - Execute targeted user acquisition tests and community-building pilots - Deliver two product iterations improving onboarding and privacy features - Prepare investor-ready materials aligned with the startups $500K raise at a $4M valuation About Maxcalling Software Technologies Private Limited Maxcalling Software Technologies Private Limited builds mobile-first tools to make starting a business accessible. The companys flagship app, Ice Magic, converts business creation into three steps for beginners and is available on iOS and Android. Maxcalling holds exclusive commercialization rights to its copyrighted software and is pursuing patent protection for its underlying architecture. About FasterCapital FasterCapital is a global venture builder and online incubator dedicated to co-funding and co-founding innovative startups. Established in 2014, we are now #1 venture builder in terms of number of startups that we have helped, money invested and money raised. It supports startups worldwide through various programs, including funding assistance, business development, and technical support. The EquityPilot program is designed to help early-stage startups build scalable solutions with mentorship, strategic guidance, and network support. Media Contact: This month's offerings include a picture book from a beloved librarian, a middle grade novel in verse about a tween's appreciation for her local library, a YA novel grappling with the aftereffects of trauma, and more. Picture Books Because of a Shoe Julie Fogliano, illus. by Marla Frazee. Knopf, $19.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-5937-0740-1. Ages 48. As a red-haired childs feelings get bigger and biggerbecause of a shoe/ (a too-tight shoe/ a too-loose shoe)rhythmic verse from Fogliano traces the ordeals escalation in this compassionate picture book. The book received a starred review from PW. Bread Is Love Pooja Makhijani, illus. by Lavanya Naidu. Roaring Brook, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 978-1-2509-0688-5. Ages 48. A mother and two young children bake a loaf of bread from scratch in this satisfying picture book portrait of a family ritual that feeds bellies, minds, and spirits, from PW contributor Makhijani. The book received a starred review from PW. Change Is in the Air: The Hidden Discoveries of Eunice Newton Foote, the First Climate Scientist Rebecca Donnelly, illus. by Merce Lopez. Holt, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-250-82853-8. Ages 48. Donnelly and Lopez celebrate the acumen of American scientist and suffragist Eunice Newton Foote in this engaging account of the subjects work. See our In Conversation with Donnelly and other authors of new childrens books about Foote. The book received a starred review from PW. The Dream Gideon Sterer, illus. by Nik Henderson. Clarion, $19.99 (88p) ISBN 978-0-0633-5799-0. Ages 48. In this haunting wordless picture book, the natural world leads a stand for itself. The book received a starred review from PW. Here Come the Aunties! Cynthia Leitich Smith, illus. by Aphelandra. Heartdrum, $19.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-0633-7469-0. Ages 48. A wealth of aunties contribute to an Indigenous childs day-to-day in this lovingly communal picture book. The book received a starred review from PW. Houdinis Library: How Books Created the Worlds Greatest Magician Barb Rosenstock, illus. by Mar Delmar. Knopf, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-0-593-57013-5. Ages 48. Rosenstock and Delmar tie the magical prowess of Harry Houdini to his fondness for books in this mesmerizing account of the escape artists accomplishments. The book received a starred review from PW. Hummingbirds Big Trip G. Brian Karas. Random House Studio, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-593-90260-8. Ages 48. On the cusp of winter migration, a hummingbird works through worries about its looming journey to the warm south in a candidly told first-person narrative. The book received a starred review from PW. If This Were the World Stephen Barr, illus. by AG Ford. Holiday House/Porter, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-8234-5719-9. Ages 48. After Ms. Lees class runs out of imagined games on the 138th day of school, the class comes together to create a new game. The book received a starred review from PW. Im So Happy Youre Here: A Celebration of Library Joy Mychal Threets, illus. by Lorraine Nam. Random House, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 979-8-2170-2602-9. Ages 48. A librarian who looks very much like debut author and PW Notable Threetsthe viral literacy advocate and host of a rebooted Reading Rainbowkicks off a day of library joy in this affectionate picture book. Is It Spring? Kevin Henkes. Greenwillow, $21.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-06-346925-9. Ages 48. Variable vernal weather spurs this high-spirited seasonal offering in which the titular question turns refrain as answers centered around the natural world. The book received a starred review from PW. Jeong Is Jeong Jessica Yoon, illus. by Michelle Lee. Make Me a World, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 979-8-2170-2726-2. Ages 48. A child of Korean descent learns the meaning of a word considered untranslatable in this lovingly intergenerational picture book. The book received a starred review from PW. Junkos Climb: The First Woman to Stand on Top of the World Elyssa Gavin, illus. by HifuMiyo. Union Square, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-4549-4683-0. Ages 5 and up. Gavin applauds the heights reached by Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Mt. Everest, in an invigorating story that opens with a formative childhood experience. The book received a starred review from PW. Maries Magic Eggs: How Marie Procai Kept the Ukrainian Art of Pysanky Alive Sandra Neil Wallace, illus. by Evan Turk. Calkins Creek, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-662-68069-4. Ages 710. In this moving picture book, Wallace and Turk limn the life story of artist and entrepreneur Marie Procai, focusing on her devotion to her cultures credo that as long as pysanky are decorated, there will be good in the world. The book received a starred review from PW. Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery Jane Kurtz, illus. by Giselle Potter. Beach Lane, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-66595-554-6. Ages 48. Wry interrogative narration energizes this engaging portrait of scientist and illustrator Morland, emphasizing the figures enthusiastic embrace of the worlds wonders. The book received a starred review from PW. Otherwise Known as Judy the Great: A Poetic Ode to Judy Blume Selina Alko. Little, Brown/Ottaviano, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-0-316-57063-3. Ages 610. Alkos detail-rich biographical poems and charismatic acrylic and collage illustrations result in an exuberant homage to this childrens book icon. Poems for Every Season Bette Westera, trans. from the Dutch by David Colmer, illus. by Henriette Boerendans. Eerdmans, $18.99 (56p) ISBN 978-0-8028-5652-4. Ages 59. Varied verse types evoke natures seasonal milestones in this splendid month-by-month collection. The book received a starred review from PW. Rise, Girl, Rise: Our Sister-Friend Journey. Together for All. Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee, illus. by Kah Yangni. Orchard, $19.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-338-88894-2. Ages 48. Highlighting the twinned stories of their egalitarian awakenings, the prominent activists emphasize the importance of sisterhood in this persuasively rallying work. Rumpelstiltskin Mac Barnett, illus. by Carson Ellis. Orchard, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-338-67385-2. Ages 48. Following his reimagining of The Three Billy Goats Gruff, Barnett retells Rumpelstiltskin, his wisecracking lines joined by the medieval elegance of gouache spreads by Caldecott Honoree Ellis. The book received a starred review from PW. Seven Million Steps: The True Story of Dick Gregorys Run for the Hungry Derrick Barnes and Christian Gregory, illus. by Frank Morrison. Amistad, $19.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-06-335752-5. Ages 48. This stirring account from the life of activist and comedian Dick Gregory traces his 1976 run from Los Angeles to New York City while abstaining from nearly all nourishment to raise awareness about food insecurity. The book received a starred review from PW. The Sweater Larissa Theule, illus. by Teagan White. Viking, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-5935-2894-5. Ages 37. Offering community care alongside space to heal is the gentle model animating this compassionate woodland tale. The book received a starred review from PW. When Cherry Blossoms Fall Katrina Goldsaito, illus. by Yas Imamura. Little, Brown, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-3162-8112-6. Ages 68. Learning to appreciate impermanence is the delicate takeaway of Goldsaito and Imamuras conceptual intergenerational tale. The book received a starred review from PW. Yulus Linen Cao Wenxuan, trans. from the Chinese by Helen Wang, illus. by Suzy Lee. Atheneum/Dlouhy, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-6659-3119-9. Ages 48. In this finely wrought picture book about the artistic process, a canvas of yu-lu-marain-dew linen seems destined for young Yulus brushes, so her father, a frustrated artist whos nurtured her talent, buys it for her first self-portrait. The book received a starred review from PW. Chapter Books Marty Moose: First Class Mischief Claire Powell. Candlewick, $16.99 hardcover (160p) ISBN 978-1-5362-4780-0; $6.99 paper ISBN 978-1-5362-5021-3. Ages 69. Making a solo debut with this cozy chapter book series opener, Powell presents a lively adventure helmed by an optimistic mouse protagonist. The book received a starred review from PW. Maysoon Zayid, the Girl Who Can Can Seema Yasmin, illus. by Noha Habaieb. Salaam Reads, $17.99 hardcover (80p) ISBN 978-1-6659-5342-9; $6.99 paper ISBN 978-1-6659-5341-2. Ages 610. This nonfiction chapter book, a series starter, follows a Palestinian, Muslim and disabled entertainer, American actor and comedian Maysoon Zayid, as she confronts obstacles on her way to stardom. See our story for more about the Muslim Mavericks series. The Mighty Macy Kwame Alexander, illus. by Kitt Thomas. Little, Brown, $16.99 (144p) ISBN 978-0-316-44216-9. Ages 69. In this effervescent chapter book by the Newbery Medalist, 80 snappy poems recount a bookish third grader's love for her library. The book received a starred review from PW. Middle Grade Camp Monster Kate Messner, illus. by Falynn Koch. Bloomsbury, $14.99 (224p) ISBN 978-1-5476-0941-3. Ages 812. Previous collaborators Messner and Koch reunite in this upbeat graphic novel featuring friendship and fun-in-the-sun hijinks of monstrous proportions. Each and Every Spark Claire Swinarski. Quill Tree, $19.99 (288p) ISBN 978-0-0633-2178-6. Ages 812. Parallel plots set 80 years apart follow two 13-year-old girls as they navigate war and its aftermath in this stellar historical novel. The book received a starred review from PW. The Lions Run Sara Pennypacker, illus. by Jon Klassen. Macmillan/Balzer + Bray, $18.99 (288p) ISBN 978-1-25039-281-7. Ages 812. This immersive WWII novel by Pennypacker, set in 1944 occupied France, centers orphaned 13-year-old Lucas, who surprises himself with his own small courageous actions, which lead to some enormously dangerous ones. See our q&a with Pennypacker on the history that informed her story. The book received a starred review from PW. The Mysterious Magic of Lighthouse Lane Erin Stewart. Aladdin, $17.99 (336p) ISBN 978-1-6659-5228-6. Ages 812. Luminous first-person narration relays an introspective slice-of-life tale that forefronts connection and the lessons to be learned about friendship, family, and oneself when approaching relationships with an open heart and mind. The book received a starred review from PW. Mythspeaker Christopher Roubique. Viking, $18.99 (304p) ISBN 979-8-2170-3904-3. Ages 812. Cajun and Indigenous debut author Roubique draws inspiration from Indigenous American tales to craft a rousing action-adventure. The book received a starred review from PW. Pinkies Turnabout Sue Lloyd-Davies. Fitzroy, $15.95 paper (184p) ISBN 978-1-64603-689-9. Ages 912. Drawing on personal experience, Lloyd-Davies confronts the hardships of caring for a loved one with dementia in this brutally tender debut. The book received a starred review from PW. A Scar Like a River Lisa Graff. Little, Brown/Ottaviano, $17.99 (400p) ISBN 978-0-316570-80-0. Ages 12 and up. Graff infuses the visceral realities of lingering trauma with moments of lightheartedness to deliver a work about a girl who refuses to be defined by her past. The book received a starred review from PW. Young Adult Call of the Dragon Natasha Bowen. Random House, $19.99 (368p) ISBN 978-0-593-89815-4. Ages 14 and up. Herbalist Moremi is the teenage daughter of the principal priestess to Yida, the dragon goddess, in this engrossing fantasy series opener that demonstrates the burden of being a chosen one. The book received a starred review from PW. Few Blue Skies Carolina Ixta. Quill Tree, $19.99 (384p) ISBN 978-0-0632-8791-4. Ages 14 and up. Ixta examines young love, environmental justice, and the cost of integrity in her timely and engaging sophomore novel. The book received a starred review from PW. Love Me Tomorrow Emiko Jean. S&S/Barley, $19.99 (352p) ISBN 978-1-66597-437-0. Ages 12 and up. In this perceptive speculative rom-com, a Japanese American teen seeks to uncover the identity of her secret admirer via letters sent from the future. Read more about the making of the book here. Love, Sivvy: A Novel Inspired by the Life, Letters, and Diaries of Young Sylvia Plath R.L. Toalson. Little, Brown, $19.99 (416p) ISBN 978-0-3165-8713-6. Ages 14 and up. Toalson centers the formative teen and college years of poet Sylvia Plath in a fictionalized telling inspired by her letters and diaries. The book received a starred review from PW. Queen of Faces Petra Lord. Holt, $22.99 (432p) ISBN 978-1-250-36297-1. Ages 14 and up. Debut author Lord sensitively explores identity and self-actualization throughout this mind-bending series opener, which follows teen Anabelle in pursuit of both an elite education and a new body. See our Writers to Watch profile. The book received a starred review from PW. Sibylline Melissa de la Cruz. Putnam, $20.99 (304p) ISBN 979-8-217002-61-0. Ages 14 and up. Friendships and romances are tested against the backdrop of a magical Ivy League school in this energetic dark academia fantasy. The Sun and the Starmaker Rachel Griffin. Sourcebooks Fire, $19.99 (448p) ISBN 978-1-7282-5618-4. Ages 14 and up. Eighteen-year-old Aurora Finch learns that she is to take on the mantle of becoming the towns next Starmaker and is whisked away to learn under the current Starmaker, who will die upon her ascension. The book received a starred review from PW. To the Death Andrea Tang. Putnam, $19.99 (304p) ISBN 978-0-593-85821-9. Ages 14 and up. Tang explores cycles of corruption, emotional abuse, and grief in this complex, high-stakes sapphic romantasy. The book received a starred review from PW. Wake Now in the Fire Jarrett Dapier, illus. by AJ Dungo. Ten Speed Graphic, $38 hardcover (464p) ISBN 978-0-5938-3804-4; $24.99 paper ISBN 978-0-5938-3803-7. Ages 14 and up. A large cast of intersectionally diverse characters model ways to push back against book banning in a timely graphic novel that fictionalizes the story of Chicago Public Schools 2013 removal of Persepolis from student libraries. The book received a starred review from PW. Reading Is Amazing was the theme at the Taipei International Book Exhibition (TIBE), which wrapped up its six-day run on February 8. Among the shows highlights were curated works from 37 publishing houses from Thailand, this years guest of honor, and the Reading is AmaZINE exhibition that showcased zine publications from Taiwan, Thailand, and South Korea. Belgium, Czechia, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan were among the countries that had their own pavilions. TIBE is co-organized by the Taipei Book Fair Foundation (TBFF), an initiative established by 18 major publishers in 2004 with a rotating chairmanship that operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture. Rex How, the owner of Locus Publishing House, served as its first chairman from 2005 to 2007, and has now returned to the position. TIBE offers a meeting place in Asia for publishers, How said. This event is about the power of books and of reading, of bringing book people and book lovers together under one roof. How noted that when TIBE was created, its three major goals were promoting domestic reading, promoting international cultural exchanges, and promoting publishing expertise. We have achieved these goals and today, TIBE has evolved to become a unique book event for both the public and professional attendees, he said. How also pointed out that TIBE has evolved over the years. Prior to the pandemic, the exhibition attracted people of all ages. When the show returned to be a live event in 2022 after two years of being a mostly digital affair, most public visitors were in the age range of 2050. According to How, fair organizers were "encouraged by this because these are the very people that we wanted to see reading more and buying more books. With bookstores holding less events, books have less chances to be seen by readers, making TIBE even more important than before, How said: Now that more exhibitors are planning their own onsite eventson top of those organized by TIBEwe are hoping to draw a much bigger crowd to come here to explore and find new books to bring home to read. According to the most recent statistics, Taiwan was home to 4,769 publishing houses in 2024, which released 54,767 new titles, of which 32,175 (or 58.7%) were print books, 21,391 were e-books, and the rest were in audio format. Translations accounted for nearly 34% of print books. The new titles published were mostly in these five genres: test preparation titles (12.9%); humanities and history (12.6%); childrens books (11.4%); comics/graphic novels (10.8%); and fiction (9%). Taiwans bestselling genre was self-help, followed by comics, business and finance, social sciences, and language and reference books. In 2024, translated titles came mostly from Japan (around 54%), the U.S. (19.3%), the U.K. (8.35%), and South Korea (8.31%). Japanese manga, American childrens books, and British fiction were the most popular genres among translated titles. As for rights sales to overseas markets, Taiwan is well known for its original picture books from author-illustrators such as Jimmy Liao (Sound of Colors, Where Will I Be Tomorrow?) and Chen Chih-yuan (Guji Guji, The Featherless Chickens Met the Hungry Wolf). Other genres are also making waves, including fiction (such as Kevin Chens Ghost Town) and manga (from creators such as Ding Pao-Yen of CONSOLE 2073). In general, the Taiwanese book market faces many of the big challenges and problems that are seen in many parts of the world: declining rates of reading, competition from social media, low birthrate, and issues caused by the rise of AI. As Jerome Su, owner of Bookman Books publishing house and B.K. Norton, an agency for many American academic presses, put it: People are using their cellphones to access information and their reading materials are mostly online. Fewer people are visiting bookstores, Su said. One constant in the Taiwanese book market, according to Su, is that parents want their children to master the English language and encourage their kids to read for leisure and read in English. "This is one reason why titles by authors such as Roald Dahl and those from Scholastic are very popular here," he said. "Such awareness and encouragement is important in ensuring the next generation of readers and book lovers, and in ensuring the longevityand prosperityof the Taiwanese book industry. Japan's ruling coalition secures lower house majority in election Xinhua) 08:08, February 09, 2026 TOKYO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Japan's ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) won more than a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives following Sunday's general election, public broadcaster NHK reported early Monday. The ruling bloc secured 352 seats, surpassing the two-thirds majority necessary to enact a bill approved by the lower house but rejected by the House of Councillors, or the upper house, NHK reported. The LDP, which had 198 seats before the election, gained control of two-thirds of the 465-member lower house on its own after winning a total of 316 seats. The outcome does not appear too favorable for the JIP as a junior partner, which added two seats to its pre-election strength of 34 seats in the lower house. The JIP's influence over the coalition is expected to decline due to the LDP controlling a majority even on its own, NHK said. Japan's main opposition party, the Centrist Reform Alliance formed in January by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Komeito party, saw its seat count drastically reduced to 49 from the pre-election tally of 172, NHK reported. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito hinted at resigning as the alliance's co-leaders, with both saying in a joint NHK interview that they have already made up their minds to take responsibility for the heavy losses. The Sanseito party, a populist group which had two seats before the election, won 15 seats, while the Democratic Party for the People won 28, compared to its pre-election seat count of 27. A total of 1,284 candidates ran for the 465 seats in the House of Representatives, which consist of 289 in single-seat constituencies and 176 through proportional representation in 11 regional blocks across Japan. Sunday's vote marked Japan's first lower house election held in February since 1990, a decision by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that has drawn criticism as heavy snowfall in many parts of the country made campaigning difficult. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Disney/Bahareh Ritter By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/08/2026 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. couple Bailey Taylor Brown and Jeremy Simon have revealed where they stand in their relationship and what's next for them."We are in a great relationship now, and that makes life a million times better," Jeremy told Kathy Swarts and Susan Noles when asked how he's doing during a recent appearance on the "Bachelor Happy Hour: Golden Hour" podcast.Jeremy revealed, however, that he and Bailey are "not officially" living together."I am back and forth between New York and Atlanta," Bailey shared."I do have a closet [at his place] and I have stuff in the closet. I have lots of my stuff there... but I feel like we have enjoyed life so much more together after the show... and not being in the bubble. Things have calmed down."When asked how their relationship has grown since meeting on 's tenth season in Summer 2025, Bailey said, "Every day, [we] fall more in love and learn more things about each other. Now, we've met [each other's] families and have spent holidays [together]."Bailey also got to meet Jeremy's grandparents in Florida, where she spent Hanukkah. Jeremy then traveled to Atlanta to spend Christmas with her family."We've just been busy," Bailey noted."We spend most days together," Jeremy confirmed. "We've essentially been in a five-year relationship at this point.""Yeah," Bailey agreed, "sometimes I forget that we haven't been dating for years. Paradise moves things along very quickly."Bailey gushed about how she and Jeremy are "really comfortable" with each other and don't even mind sitting in silence together."We enjoy spending time together, and we really enjoy a lot of the same things," Bailey said.Jeremy added that the longest he and Bailey have been apart was about three weeks back in September when Bailey was working in China.In terms of their daily life together, Jeremy still works full-time in property management in New York and then cooks Bailey dinner when he gets home."We're kind of ready to get out of the city," Jeremy admitted, adding how he's "kind of sick" of New York but the pair plans to take things day by day.Bailey said she loves Atlanta and they'd like to end up somewhere warm with plenty of sunshine."And we need a little bit more room," Bailey quipped.Although the couple is in love, Bailey said they don't have any engagement plans."Not yet. We're young," Bailey noted."If there were any plans," Jeremy interjected, "I would've taken the free ring on [ ]."Bailey confirmed that she and Jeremy "are in no rush to get engaged" and they're just enjoying time together.Jeremy paired up with Bailey for the first few days of 's tenth season, but then he enjoyed a great date with Susie Evans and seemed torn between the two women.After making a difficult decision, Jeremy ended up giving Bailey his rose, resulting in Susie's early and unexpected elimination.Once Susie was gone, Jeremy thought he and Bailey were all in, but then Bailey accepted a date with Andrew Spencer Bailey's decision made Jeremy spiral and question everything, and so he called Susie on the phone and begged her to return to Paradise so they could give their romance another shot.Susie, clearly feeling emotionally depleted after her reunion with ex-boyfriend Justin Glaze on the show days earlier, declined Jeremy's offer Since Bailey ran back into Jeremy's arms after her date with Andrew, Jeremy resumed dating her.However, Jeremy continued to miss Susie and mention her frequently to his friends, according to footage. At one point, he said he regretted giving Bailey his rose.Jeremy was even shown joking to Brian Autz that he'd propose marriage to Susie on the spot if she returned to Paradise.Jeremy never told Bailey about the phone call or his lingering feelings for Susie, and so Brian took it upon himself to spill the beans once the show introduced a competitive element with money on the line.Bailey was devastated and nearly quit Paradise, especially because neither Jeremy or a single one of her girlfriends had told her about the situation.But Jeremy begged Bailey to stay and insisted that he truly cared for her and only had eyes for her at that point.Jeremy and Bailey continued to grow their connection and were eventually voted out of by their peers, missing out on a shot to win up to $500,000 in the finale However, the pair decided to become boyfriend and girlfriend, officially, before leaving Costa Rica.The pair then faced a lot of backlash from Bachelor Nation.Jeremy was slammed for lying by omission to Bailey, and Bailey received criticism for choosing to stay with a man who pretty clearly preferred another woman, at least for a short period of time."I've made some stupid mistakes that me and her have obviously talked about a million times before the show -- before it aired and while it aired," Jeremy admitted during the 10 reunion."I wish I could take some of them back... I acted like a child."Jeremy concluded, "At the end of the day, we have pretty thick skin and we know what we have... We just try not to let people get to us."Interested in more The Bachelor news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group The first week of Tara Bakers murder trial began last week, with testimonies from several key witnesses including Bakers roommates, close friends and neighbors, as well as forensic scientists, investigators and Athens police officers and firefighters. Baker, a first-year University of Georgia law student, was found murdered in her Athens home on Jan. 19, 2001. Her accused killer, Edrick Faust, is being charged with 12 felony counts, including murder, rape, arson and aggravated sodomy. The Red & Black has complied a day by day recap of the trial thus far. 'There is a lot of euphoria in the country after a trade agreement is signed. But it is an illusion for us. What is more important is making it real.' Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Kind courtesy EqualStock/Pexels.com Tirupur is home to around 5,000 textile units. Textiles exports from this Tamil Nadu town was around Rs 40,000 crore ($4.8 billion) in 2025. 45 per cent of the textiles exports from Tirupur is to the European Union worth $1.74 billion; it is around $1.2 billion to the UK. With India signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU on January 27, 2026, exports to the EU is expected to rise exponentially. A couple of days ago, United States President Donald John Trump reduce the US' trade tariffs against India from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. The sour point for exporters is that the FTA India signed with the UK in May 2025 is yet to get implemented. Global trade expert Ajay Srivastava told Rediff after India signed the FTA with the EU that it may take at least one year for day one of the free trade agreement to begin. This is what worries the textile manufacturers of Tirupur, says Raja M Shanmugam, former president, Tirupur Exporters Association. "If the government will not support us with funds, buyers will abandon us and move over to some other country for the next placement of orders," Raja M Shanmugam tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier. EU-India FTA boost for Tirupur exports Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Kind courtesy EqualStock/Pexels.com From April to December 2025, textile exports from India declined by 2.19 per cent but apparel exports had a growth of 2.36 per cent. But it was down by 12.9 per cent in October 2025 after Trump slapped huge tariffs on India. What changed between October and December? In October, there was panic in the market after Trump announced huge tariffs. Another factor is because of the festival holidays in India, there was a reduction in shipments from here. Naturally, exports dipped badly. After October, exports went up. But you have to note that only the confirmed orders got exported, that too with heavy discounts. And it happened only because brands were forced to take goods out of India as they couldn't replace them by some other source immediately. All this panic and slump in exports in October was because of Trump's tariff and festival holidays in India. In the months after October, exports went up not because there were new orders but because the existing confirmed orders got ready only by then. They were shipped out in a phased manner with heavy discounts to the US. Trump tariffs hit Tirupur apparel industry Only to the US? The slump in exports was only because of the tariffs imposed by Trump. Exports to Europe and other regions were going smoothly, in fact with a marginal increase. Only the goods to the US got into problem because of the imposition of a tariff of 50 per cent. After the high tariffs, we had only exported earlier orders to the US, that too with discounts borne by both the buyers and manufacturers. There has been no fresh orders from the US. They got stopped completely. UK FTA delay worries textile exporters How much has Trump and his tariffs affected the atmosphere and the mood of Tirupur's textile industry? Tirupur would be the litmus test for the whole of India in the apparel segment. Tirupur got impacted to the tune of 34 per cent because our exports to the US market hovers around 30 to 34 per cent and that has got into jeopardy after Trump came to power. Now, we have to manage with the other available markets to survive or sustain themselves. Yes, it is a tough situation for more than 5,000 factories in the Tirupur cluster. Zero-tariff access to EU in focus It is said that 45 per cent of your textile exports go to the EU. Then, you have the UK market too. So, has loss of 34 per cent to the US affected Tirupur very badly? 34 per cent is a huge chunk of our exports! Obviously it will create a tight financial situation for all of us. It has almost killed the community and the cluster. That's why we have frantically appealed to the Government of India to help us tide over this situation with some incentives. This has happened due to no fault of ours. It is a geopolitical situation. Till the government settled a deal with the US, we wanted the government to handhold the MSMEs. In fact, across the globe, every country is moving towards protectionism. If the government will not support us with funds, buyers will abandon us and move over to some other country for the next placement of orders. Tirupur's migrant workforce under pressure Has it happened already? Vietnam, which has an FTA with the EU, has an advantage over India. FTA creates an advantageous position for all our competitors while it is a disadvantage for a country like India which has no FTA. It is not a level playing field. While we are hit by a 12 per cent tariff from Europe, countries like Vietnam has zero tariff. This 12 per cent tariff disadvantage was killing India. MSME support demanded by textile cluster Now, you must be happy with the EU-India trade deal... Luckily, now there is an FTA between the European Union and India. But we do not know when it will be implemented. Only signing an agreement between EU and India has happened. Remember a trade agreement between India and the UK was signed more than a year back. Till today, it has not been implemented. You have to highlight this issue because there is a lot of euphoria in the country after a trade agreement is signed. But it is an illusion for us. What is more important is making it real. The UK parliament is yet to pass the trade agreement with India. Similarly, the trade deal with EU has to be passed by 27 countries. What India should do is to assign a team to persuade the respective countries to do it as early as possible. Regarding happiness, Tirupur is notionally happy. Real happiness will happen only when the deal moves from the paper to the ground. Vietnam gains edge with EU zero tariff Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Kind courtesy EqualStock/Pexels.com Many experts feel that it may take at least one year for the EU-India trade deal to get implemented. Do you feel one year is a long period, and it will affect export clusters like Tirupur badly? Yes, it will. We should not get carried away by just signing a trade agreement. What is important is its implementation at the earliest. Instead of letting them work at their own place, India should take the initiative and make it faster as we need the deal. An agreement alone will not change the ground situation. I also admit that if we have been travelling through a dark tunnel without seeing any light, at least we see light at the end of the tunnel. But we want to reach the end as quick as possible. Rising domestic demand for Indian apparel Do you think the trade agreements with EU was the reason why Trump agreed to reduce trade tariffs to India from 50 per cent to 18 per cent? Yes, the US president was compelled to have a trade agreement with India only because of the EU-India deal. That too, over the phone! He understood that a union of the Indian market and European market would be a game changer globally. Not commercially, but politically too. The EU deal will definitely boost the export of Indian products across the globe. Now, many other countries are also queuing up to fetch a deal with India. The textile industry is very labour intensive. Do you feel with the EU deal, more labour intensive businesses are going to get a boost in India? Yes. India is the youngest nation in the world when you look at it from the perspective of labour. The western world or the so-called developed world is ageing, and there is no labour available there. This is going to be a big factor for their economy. So, they want to ally with India which has a population of 1.4 billion. They have realised that continuing to depend on China is not a good idea. So, I feel they will start using the expertise of the people of India more, not just in technology but in manufacturing too. It will be a mutually beneficial situation. The UK and EU together, how big will be the market for textiles exports? For the Tirupur apparel export segment, the UK and EU markets together will contribute to over 75 per cent of our exports. We already have 0 per cent deals with Australia and Japan. For the apparel segment, I think we have FTA for 90 per cent of our exports. This is a very positive sign for the textile industry as a whole. Let me reiterate that what is more important is the implementation of the deals, and not just signing them. Do you think dependence on the US market will reduce because of their big bully attitude? I want to highlight another point. The Indian market itself is growing rapidly. We have 1.4 billion people. Europe and America together constitute around 0.75 billion only. IMAGE: Raja M Shanmugam. Photograph: Kind courtesy Raja M Shanmugam IMAGE: Raja M Shanmugam. But do they not have more purchasing power? I agree their purchasing power is more. But India's purchasing power is also increasing day by day. That's why the western world is eyeing the Indian market. As we have a huge consuming population, all the major brands want to spread their wings here... European brands, American brands... This is going to be an added advantage for India. For example, Tirupur already has a turnover of around Rs 40,000 crore for exports. And our domestic demand is surging high. There is a possibility of another Rs 40,000 crore business domestically too very soon. I feel within a year, the domestic demand will be around Rs 50,000 crores, and exports will be around Rs 40,000 crore. Earlier you said, every country wants protectionism now. Three decades ago, everybody talked about only globalisation, a world without borders, liberalisation, etc. Suddenly walls between countries have come up... Now that the US is moving away from globalisation, all the other countries are pursuing businesses in their own way. That's why deals between countries are happening. Earlier, we saw a US-led globalisation, but now a common ground is created between countries for globalisation, and the common ground is through special FTAs between trading communities or countries. This is also globalisation, but only the alignment is changing, a realignment. Key Points Tirupur's apparel exporters were badly hit after the US imposed steep tariffs, wiping out fresh orders from the American market. Nearly 45% of Tirupur's exports go to the EU, and exporters expect a major boost once the EU-India FTA is implemented. Delay in implementing the UK-India FTA and the new EU deal is creating uncertainty for the textile cluster. Exporters are seeking urgent government support to help MSMEs survive the current slowdown. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff 'Grassroots-level corruption, which disrupts the last-mile work, cannot be ignored in your enthusiasm and drive to get going to complete the project.' 'Like it was in MGNREGA, in some states, it is the case with the Jal Jeevan mission.' 'The last minute levels of corruption can ruin the intent of the project itself.' 'When you see that people can game a particular well-intended and well-crafted project, you need to correct that.' IMAGE: Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman addresses a post-Budget press conference at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, February 1, 2026. Photograph: Press Information Bureau Key Points 'You may not like the name VB-G RAM G, but haven't I provided Rs 95,000 crore for it?' 'India wants to have the benefit of more investments, more capacities being built, more jobs being created and more output.' 'When I say I have to have manufacturing as one of the pillars which will give me sustained growth, am I looking at only the big industries? No.' The India-US trade deal, had it come a little earlier, would not have made the Union Budget any different, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tells Asit Ranjan Mishra, Vikas Dhoot, Nivedita Mookerji and A K Bhattacharya at her Parliament office. The concluding part of the interview: One thing that is bothering people is the mechanism of ensuring that the states and the central departments spend their money.The shortfalls that you are seeing are very significant in key schemes. Is there an institutional mechanism needed to make sure that the states and the central ministries actually spent the money under, for example, the Jal Jeevan Mission, instead of it just being a disclosure of transparency? You have moved to transparency, but is there any action needed to act on the information that people have now? This doesn't recognise that there is one other issue: Grassroots-level corruption, which disrupts the last-mile work, cannot be ignored in your enthusiasm and drive to get going to complete the project. Like it was in MGNREGA, in some states, it is the case with the Jal Jeevan mission. The last minute levels of corruption can ruin the intent of the project itself. You may lay the pipe but there is no water in the source from which it has to come. So, in other words, therefore, when you see that people can game a particular well-intended and well-crafted project, you need to correct that. Until I correct that, I can't just say that people might question that I am not spending the money, and I flush it there. I'll correct it and give it to you. Haven't we corrected MGNREGA? Have we thrown the baby with the bathwater... You may not like the name VB-G RAM G, but haven't I provided Rs 95,000 crore for it? Haven't I also, recognising that the system was being gamed, still because you could question me, given Rs 30,000 crore there (MGNREGA) as well. Within one year, over Rs 120,000 crore for the same intent -- in the name of MGNREGA and the VB-G RAM G. We have corrected the system and we have put money. Therefore, that cause gets served. But till then, how much water has flown under the bridge? There were instances of totally gaming the system and CAG came up with the report. The state team and central team went together to those villages where this was happening and the state team could not disprove the point. Then it was clearly laid out that you will give that money back to the system, which is the government system. It has to go to the exchequer, then you get it back for the right claimants. There was cheating at that as well... money was taken from the treasury and put back. You cheated this system and gave that public money to ineligible fellows. When we are saying, retrieve that money and put it back and then take the money again for the eligible ones, you're taking it from the public exchequer again and then putting it back, and not retrieving it from them. The brazenness with which they are gaming the system... So that has been sorted out now. The reason for un-utilisation in some of these major well-intended schemes are these sorts of things. I can't repeatedly talk about this publicly but we have to correct it. VB-G RAM G is one classic example of where Prime Minister Modi does not tolerate this kind of gaming of the system. Where money has to go to the people, he has given it to you. He has also given it to those people and said take your bills and go away. But now, the system should be clean. Am I looking at only the big industries? No' In the Budget, you mentioned about upgrading 200 legacy industrial clusters. Have they been identified, and what is the nature of upgradation that you have in mind? There are several things we have to do there and I'm working with the MSME ministry. When I say I have to have manufacturing as one of the pillars which will give me sustained growth, am I looking at only the big industries? No. One side of the coin is through PLI, you look at the scaling up prospects, look at those industries where intense labour engagement happens, those which have export possibility. And then through PLI support also, semiconductors, phone manufacturing, electronics, gems and jewellery, textiles. But the other side of the coin is the matter of fact that 40 per cent of your export happens from MSMEs. That's why we said we'll make champions out of the medium-sized industry, the top end of the lower half. Because the lower half is small, you can't really scale them up. The medium ones -- even if they have every possibility to grow, they don't want to grow because they fear losing out on these MSME benefits. That is why we have changed the norms, you would still be with an MSME, but if you want support from us, in the form of equity support, liquidity support, professional support, we will provide it. But with that said and done, maybe those getting this support may all be new. What happens to the legacy ones, to those MSME units which have been there for 30, 40 years now? When you study that problem, you get to know that most of these clusters, whether in Tiruppur, in Surat, in Jalandhar, in any other place, are all bursting at the seams. No space to grow, no policy framework which allows them to grow vertically, or no additional infrastructure or capital infused for machinery upgradation, no capital infused for better technology to be brought in, or training. The higher limits for AIF investments from overseas persons is being seen as a significant reform to boost capital inflows. There's also a challenge of mobilising the domestic pool of savings, especially from high-net worth individuals who are using the portfolio route to invest abroad and perhaps, crimping the savings available for domestic investments. Does that concern you and how do we create vehicles to bring those savings to domestic ventures and projects? I don't think there's one possible answer. I am not encouraging them going out but it doesn't actually crimp the available investible funds. Going out has some benefits but yes, bringing a portion of that back for investing in India is happening and significantly happening. So I am not saying let it be like that. We will have to attract them... there is also now a tendency for them to set up under the IFSCA. People are coming there because it has its own benefits and nothing stops them from investing in India aside from there, rather than a similar facility elsewhere. So that's also become one of the ways in which money comes back into India, and from there, they can still get the kind of returns that they want by investing in other destinations. The recent spate of mergers and acquisitions halted somewhat perhaps in October, but reviving again, and also, the increased interest in IPOs -- there is a lot of interest in our own investors coming back in search of partners. In between, there was this talk that legacy business houses and their heirs don't want to continue with that, they are putting it somewhere and earning returns. You can't blame them, it's their money. But yet, India wants to have the benefit of more investments, more capacities being built, more jobs being created and more output. So now, what is happening is with the renewed interest in IPOs, many of them are coming for partnering with others. Maybe the priorities of the core sectors that their families have been engaged in, is shifting somehow. And in shifting, they are also looking at partners who have got the expertise. So I can see that happening. In fact, many of the funds, trusts, home offices and others are probably looking for partners in newer sectors in which they want to start afresh. You are hopeful on this front? I see some of it happening already. On the PM Internship scheme, the allocation has gone down... What do you think has gone wrong? Allocation has not gone down. We are doing it for five years and have done some pilots. So the allocation is only proportional to the pilot. Now we are taking a note to the Cabinet for the entire project to be launched. So that will be different... Pilots can be more or less, depending on the lessons learnt. What are the learnings from the pilot? The learnings -- some of them thought it was too long a course, some wanted more money, some of them wanted to be in a particular sector, but that sector did not make an offer to them. Some wanted to be out of their state, some others who saw people get employment in the company where they did internship and felt - 'Oh, I should have taken a call'... and you also had people who had come from districts who felt that language was a barrier. So there are several learnings. Not all of them may be incorporated in the scheme, but some will. The Supreme Court's judgment on the Tiger Global case. Is there a need to clear the air to ensure it doesn't become a matter of uncertainty? No, I honour every word of the DTAA, every word of the General Anti Avoidance Rules (GAAR) on tax avoidance. But even for that one occasional case where there is an abuse, I should look the other way, thinking that it might affect the investor mood, may not be right. Where there is an abuse, a legal recourse is there, the judiciary at various levels have looked into it and agreed that there was an abuse, that cannot be interpreted as me violating the DTAA or violating the GAAR norms. abuse, it is my duty to make sure abuse is recognised, meaning noticed and treated legal. I don't think this particular case you're referring to, has anything more than that. 'There was an abuse, the abuse was established in the reading' Some people are saying that this was the apex court's retrospective reading of a law. The law is fine and not retrospective by nature like the Vodafone tax in 2012. This was the law which is prospective but the Supreme Court read it with retrospective effect. So it was a reading of the law which they're questioning, not the law itself -- is a perception. I am not sure the perception is right. When did GAAR come into force? When was the shares bought? When was it sold? When was this actual selling happening? And that residence certificate of somebody from Singapore, and is that Mauritius company all right? Therefore, you had gaps in different parts of this entire process. It's a case. It's not that the relationship with the countries involved. It's that one particular case where there was an abuse, the abuse was established in the reading. So you don't think it will set a precedent? No. That is why I'm saying it is a case where there was an abuse, the law was read before the court, reread before the court, argued with evidences, and therefore, it said, 'Yes, this is an abuse of the law. The judgment has not set the precedent in terms of interpreting the law. The law was interpreted and the abuse was called out. That's all. IMAGE: Senior industry members view the Union Budget 2026 live at the Hotel Le Meridien in New Delhi. Photograph: Sumit/ANI Photo You have presented eight full Budgets and one interim one. Do you think a different approach is required in Budget making, any kind of innovation, any new thought that you want to bring into the process? No, I should first be open minded about receiving any new thought. But there are two things. There can be lot of openness about it, lot of transparency about the process, I'm not talking about the document. That is why we are engaging with a lot of people, putting it out on web sites saying 'give your inputs'. Even in WhatsApp, if you send a message, we will have a look at it. We're going to colleges... I invited the Delhi School of Economics students. That is the institution in Delhi specifically for economics, so reputed, you should have a role in budget making. So I make them come every year. There was this youth dialogue that Prime Minister Narendra Modi in which a lot of ideas were generated. Some of them were taken by us in the Budget. And post the Budget, I said I'm not going and sitting and doing interviews. People have heard the Budget. That day, I will engage with all students from all over India. We, in fact, brought 33 students from all over India to sit in Parliament, watch the Budget, and post the Budget in the evening, I went and sat with them. That was a refreshing engagement. It was so it is a lot of open process, even as it is. But how much ever I say about openness, transparency in the process, I am repeating, I am committed to transparency, but not on the document... I can't obviously put Part B out to be transparent. It can lead to even a 24 hour-speculation. That speculation can also be sometimes used. So I am not sure if much can be done about that usual sanctity of holding it closer to your chest till you say it in Parliament, as of now... unless there is an era where people openly say: "Tax me". Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients. Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff 'After the Galwan clash, the rules of engagement changed with the army commanders allowed to use any means at their disposal as they deem fit for tactical operations.' IMAGE: Indian soldiers patrol high altitute areas. Photograph: Kind courtesy Narendra Modi X Video Grab Key Points 'Both the military and the political class need to be on the same page.' 'Also, the political parties have to be on the same page. Beijing exploits the divisions between the political parties in India.' 'India's political leadership and military must balance strength with restraint, autonomy with control, and transparency with discretion -- using military power to deter China and protect territorial claims, while preventing a crisis from spiralling into a wider conflict.' "The Galwan Valley clash aggravated India-China rivalry. The Galwan clash cast dark clouds over the Sino-Indian bilateral relationship," says Dr Raj Verma, non-resident scholar, Sigur Centre for Asian Studies, Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University. "New Delhi was unable to gauge China's goals, intentions and ambitions, and the tools that Beijing will employ," Dr Verma tells Rediff's Archana Masih in a two-part interview. Dr Verma's research focuses on the economic, foreign, and security policies of India and China; relations between China, India, the United States, Russia, and Pakistan. In this interview he discusses the dark clouds cast by the Galwan clash on India-China relations, the cooperation between the two countries in regional and international organisations on an issue-to-issue basis of mutual interest and how Beijing exploits the divisions between political parties in India when they are not on the same page. The IMF World Economic Outlook data indicates a shift in global economic activity toward Asia, with China and India projected to account for 43.6 per cent of global growth, compared with 9.9 per cent for the United States. Has this shift made Donald Trump use trade and access to US markets as strategic tools to counter their rising economic and in turn geopolotical influence? President Trump is concerned about the BRICS forum threatening the dominance of the US dollar. He does not perceive India per se as a threat. China is perceived as a threat, especially in the economic domain under Trump 2.0. Trump also employed tariffs against allies, friends and partners in his first administration. He calls himself the tariff king. He will continue to use tariff as a stick to achieve his administration's goals and objectives. Tariffs are a tool of economic statecraft, to achieve, political goals. Given the IMF's projection [China at 26.6 per cent and India at 17 per cent of global GDP], realistically, how long will it take for India to catch up? The projection is regarding the contribution to global economic growth. It is not about the size of their respective economies in global GDP. China's GDP growth figures are unreliable. The veracity of China's growth figures has been questioned by analysts and economists for a long time. 2025 GDP figure has been overestimated by at least 1.5 per cent. That is China's economy expanded in 2025 not by 5 per cent, but at most by 3.5 per cent. It is difficult to estimate when India will catch up to China because of the veracity of China's growth figures. India will have to grow at a much faster rate, higher than 8 per cent to have a realistic prospect of catching up to China regarding contributing to the global economic growth. In terms of the GDP of the two countries, China's GDP is approximately $20 trillion and India's GDP is approximately $4 trillion. India is around two decades behind China in terms of economic growth and development. It will take time for India to catch up. China's economy will expand at a much slower rate in the next decade and beyond. On the other hand, India's economy will continue to grow at a much faster rate. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping hold talks in Tianjin, China on August 31, 2025. Photograph: Press Information Bureau General M M Naravane's unpublished book has triggered a debate over the clash with China in Eastern Ladakh in 2020. As the Opposition accuses the government of inaction and the government insists the military was given a free hand, what balance does India's political leadership and armed force have to consistently make while dealing with the complex relations with China? The balance here is between civilian control versus military autonomy. At the ground level along the LAC (Line of Actual Control, the boundary separating India and China), local commanders have a free hand to deal with PLA patrols/troops. Local commanders do not contact New Delhi to ask what they should do if they see a Chinese patrol. They follow the protocols laid in the agreements signed in 1993, 1995 etc. There have been numerous instances of pushing and brawls along the LAC for a long time. After the Galwan clash, the rules of engagement had changed with the army commanders allowed to use any means at their disposal as they deem fit for tactical operations. Only troops who were involved in direct confrontation with the Chinese soldiers were allowed to open fire if their lives were under threat. So, it can be stated that the Indian Army had a free hand to deal with any situation. Of course, the army leadership kept the Indian governments in the loop and asked for instructions to deal with large scale Chinese troop movements in the end of August 2020 with both Indian and Chinese troops undertaking tactical manoeuvres to occupy heights along the banks of the Pangong Tso Lake. Both the military and the political class need to be on the same page. Also, the political parties have to be on the same page. Beijing exploits the divisions between the political parties in India. India's political leadership and military must balance strength with restraint, autonomy with control, and transparency with discretion -- using military power to deter China and protect territorial claims, while preventing a crisis from spiralling into a wider conflict. That balance is difficult, imperfect, and often controversial, but it's unavoidable given the nature of the China challenge. IMAGE: India Army Tanks on the roll in Ladakh. Photograph: Kind courtesy Narendra Modi X Video Grab What are the long-term implications of the unresolved India-China border dispute? Has the Ladakh standoff cast a permanent shadow on India-China relations? The positional (competition for status and influence in the region and globally) aspect of the India-China rivalry trumps the spatial (territorial) aspect in India-China rivalry. The Galwan Valley clash has aggravated India-China rivalry. Thus, the Galwan clash has cast dark clouds over the Sino-Indian bilateral relationship. New Delhi was unable to gauge China's goals, intentions and ambitions, and the tools that Beijing will employ. China's incursions along the LAC in May 2020 and the Galwan Valley clash have exacerbated the rivalry, tensions and mistrust between the two countries. It will be difficult to overcome these issues even in the long term. The thaw in the India-China bilateral relationship since October 2024 is tactical. The bilateral relations will continue to be characterised by rivalry, competition and cooperation. Along the disputed border with more than 50,000 troops stationed on both sides, India and China are in a state of no war, no peace. This will continue. Beijing wants to exert pressure on New Delhi along the LAC. Post Galwan, India has further aligned itself closer with the US, Japan and other countries. This has exacerbated China's security dilemma. Consequently, Beijing has strengthened its strategic partnership with Pakistan which has exacerbated India' security dilemma. This has led to a spiral down effect which has heightened tensions and mistrust between the two sides. This will continue. The two countries will cooperate in regional and international organisations and forums on an issue-to-issue basis of mutual interest. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff Madhya Pradesh celebrates its success in eradicating Naxal influence by awarding promotions to 60 police personnel involved in anti-Naxal operations, highlighting the state's commitment to security and development. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points Madhya Pradesh government awards out-of-turn promotions to 60 police personnel for their bravery and success in anti-Naxal operations. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav credits the state police and Hawk Force for creating an environment that forced Naxalites to surrender, leading to Madhya Pradesh being declared Maoist-free. The state government is committed to preventing the resurgence of Naxal influence through continued security measures and development initiatives in affected areas. The Hawk Force conducted over 4,104 anti-Naxal operations, leading to the elimination of hardcore Naxalites and a significant reduction in Maoist activity. Madhya Pradesh government is investing in infrastructure and citizen services in Balaghat, including school renovations and one-stop centers for tribal communities. The Madhya Pradesh government on Monday awarded out-of-turn promotions to 60 police personnel involved in anti-Naxal operations, lauding their role in eradicating the Maoist menace in the state. Hawk Force lauded Addressing a programme in Balaghat, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav hailed the state police's campaign that forced Naxalites to surrender and the contribution of brave soldiers of the Hawk Force, a specialised anti-Maoist unit of the MP Police. "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, an environment of Naxal eradication was created across the country. The Madhya Pradesh police launched an effective campaign, forcing the Naxalites to surrender and bid final farewell to 'lal salaam' (red salute) in the state," Yadav said. Madhya Pradesh was declared Maoist-free in December last year with the surrender of two Naxalites in Balaghat. CM pays tribute to fallen soldiers The chief minister awarded out-of-turn promotions to 60 police personnel who displayed indomitable courage and bravery during Naxal encounters, and laid a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti to pay tribute to soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the peace and security of the state. He said the bravery of soldiers, the unwavering will of the police, and the people's faith had liberated the region from the shackles of Naxal terror. "The state government is paying tribute to soldiers martyred in Naxal violence through the Amar Jawan Jyoti. We can proudly say that Madhya Pradesh is now free from Naxals," he said. 32 police stations inaugurated in Balaghat The Amar Jawan Jyoti in Balaghat will be a memorial to the Naxal-free campaign, he said. Yadav also inaugurated 32 police stations and other government offices in Balaghat district, built according to ISO standards. It is regrettable that Likhiram Kavre, a minister in the then Congress government, was murdered by Naxalites in Balaghat, he said. It was a major challenge, as Madhya Pradesh shares an 836-km border with Chhattisgarh. Hawk Force Operations Even in the challenging terrain of dense forests, the Hawk Force adopted a strategy to drive out the Naxalites by conducting 4,104 anti-Naxal operations, a 23 per cent increase from the previous year, he said. "Our forces eliminated the 10 most hardcore Naxalites in 2025. The ultras were told to surrender or be killed. The police fulfilled this warning of the state government," he said. Yadav said that the state government is making all necessary arrangements to ensure that Naxalites do not gain a foothold in this area in the future. Development Initiatives He pointed out that 250 schools in Balaghat have been renovated, and the government has established one-stop centres for citizens to provide forest rights pattas for tribal communities, caste certificates, and employment camps. Apart from this, the agriculture cabinet will now be held in Balaghat in the Mahakaushal region, the chief minister said. Informed by a security guard about the fall, the worker called his employer, a subcontractor, but did not alert the police and further pretended to have no knowledge when the victim's family came searching. IMAGE: People gather near the pit in which a biker fell to death, at Janakpuri in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points A labourer has been arrested for allegedly not reporting a biker's fall into a pit in Janakpuri, Delhi, leading to his death. The labourer allegedly misled the victim's family when they inquired about the accident. The subcontractor involved in the Delhi Jal Board project was also arrested for failing to inform authorities about the incident. An FIR has been registered for culpable homicide against the subcontractor and concerned Delhi Jal Board officials. Local residents held a candle march demanding justice for the biker's death, urging a thorough investigation. The Delhi Police on Sunday arrested a labourer for allegedly not informing police or emergency authorities about the 25-year-old biker's fall into a pit in Janakpuri, leading to his death, officials said. Informed by a security guard about the fall, the worker called his employer, a subcontractor, but did not alert the police and further pretended to have no knowledge when the victim's family came searching, they added. The subcontractor was also arrested on Saturday for also not reaching out to police. The victim, Kamal Dhyani, a resident of Kailashpuri and an employee of a private bank, was returning home when he fell into the nearly 15-foot-deep pit on early Friday. Several local residents of his area took out a candle march in his memory on Sunday and demanded justice for him. Cops claim labourer 'misled' family Speaking about the role of the labourer -- identified as Yogesh (23) -- DCP (West) Darade Sharad Bhaskar said he was arrested for allegedly not informing the police or emergency authorities regarding the biker's fall and also for misleading the victim's family when they came inquiring about him. Yogesh was present at the spot at the time of the accident and was among the first to become aware that a biker had fallen into the pit dug by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) for a sewer-related project, the DCP said. "Yogesh had informed the sub-contractor, Rajesh Kumar Prajapati, about the incident during the night, but did not alert the police or any emergency agency. When the victim's family reached the spot later that night, searching for him, Yogesh misled them by claiming he had no knowledge," the DCP said. He subsequently fled the area, according to police. He was arrested from Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh, the DCP added. This comes a day after police arrested the subcontractor, identified as Prajapati (47), for failing to inform authorities despite knowing about the fall, hours before the police were alerted. He was produced before the duty magistrate, who granted one-day police custody for further investigation. Police on Saturday said call records showed Yogesh had contacted Prajapati around 12.22 am, following which the sub-contractor reached the site within 15-20 minutes. However, police were informed about the incident only around 8 am the next morning, by which time the biker had died. Yogesh had looked into the pit after being alerted by a security guard and had noticed a motorcycle with its headlight on and a human figure inside, police said earlier. Police said the victim's family searched several hospitals, police stations, different areas, including close to the ditch, through the night, but found no record of any accident case. Using mobile phone location data, the family and police personnel later combed the Janakpuri area before locating the accident site after several hours. Locals hold candle march An FIR has been registered at the Janakpuri police station under Section 105 (culpable homicide) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against the sub-contractor and concerned DJB officials. Police said Yogesh's role is being examined, and further legal action will follow based on evidence. Teams are analysing CCTV footage and other technical inputs to establish the sequence of events. Three DJB officials have been suspended in the case. Meanwhile, locals from the victim's neighbourhood said police have arrested two men so far, but they must investigate the case properly and arrest every single person behind Dhyani's death. Several local residents of his area took out a candle march in his memory and demanded justice for him. In a tragic incident in Delhi, a man was stabbed to death following a dispute over charging a mobile phone at his auto repair shop, leading to the arrest of two suspects. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Kind courtesy pixabay Key Points A man in Delhi was fatally stabbed after refusing to allow three individuals to charge their mobile phone at his auto repair shop. Two suspects, identified as Yamin and Yaseen, have been apprehended by Delhi police in connection with the stabbing. The incident occurred in Trilokpuri, East Delhi, and stemmed from an argument over charging a mobile phone. The victim, Veer Singh, died at a hospital after sustaining stab wounds during the altercation. Another man, Ram Kishan, was also stabbed when he tried to intervene but was later discharged after treatment. A man was allegedly stabbed to death on Monday for refusing three men to charge their mobile phone at his auto repair shop in east Delhi's Trilokpuri area, an officer said. 2 men apprehended The police have apprehended two men and recovered the weapon used in the crime. They were identified as Yamin and Yaseen, aged 31 and 28. "During interrogation, they disclosed that an argument over charging a mobile phone led to the incident," the officer said, adding that one of the accused assaulted the deceased with a knife. When the police responded to a call, they found that two people with stab wounds had been taken to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital. "At the hospital, two injured men were identified as Veer Singh and Ram Kishan, both residents of Trilokpuri. Both had sustained stab injuries and were initially stated to be in stable condition," the officer said. Victim, associate attacked During treatment, the condition of Veer Singh deteriorated, and he was referred to a higher centre, where he was declared brought dead, the officer said. Ram Kishan was discharged after preliminary medical treatment. The police said preliminary inquiry revealed that three unidentified people had come to Veer Singh's shop and asked him if they could charge a mobile phone. "When the shop owner refused, an argument broke out between them. During the altercation, one of the assailants allegedly took out a sharp-edged weapon and stabbed Singh. When Ram Kishan tried to intervene and stop the attack, he was also stabbed," the officer said. Veer Singh succumbed at a private hospital. Both the attacker, Prince Raj, and the victim, Sandeep Kaur, were first-year law students and classmates IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points While Prince Raj is critically injured, Sandeep Kaur died on the spot. The police said an investigation was underway to determine the motive behind the killing. Both Prince Raj and the victim, Sandeep Kaur, were first-year law students. CCTV footage captured the incident, showing the sequence of events leading to the shooting. A law student in Punjab's Tarn Taran district on Monday allegedly shot dead a woman student in the head inside the classroom as horrified classmates watched on. He then turned the gun on himself and pulled the trigger. While Prince Raj is critically injured, Sandeep Kaur died on the spot, the police said. Both the attacker, Prince Raj, and the victim, Sandeep Kaur, were first-year law students and classmates. They were about 19-20 years old. Deputy superintendent of police Jagbir Singh said Prince opened fire on Sandeep inside the classroom, leading to her death, and thereafter, he shot himself too. The police said an investigation was underway to determine the motive behind the killing that took place at the college located in Usma village. The class was yet to begin when the incident took place, said the police official. While Sandeep died on the spot, Raj was taken to the hospital in critical condition, said the police officer. Footage from a CCTV installed on the college premises showed Prince, Sandeep and another female student together in the classroom. Some other students could also be seen present in the classroom. Suddenly, Prince got up from his desk and shot Sandeep. He then shot himself in the head and fell on the floor. The shocked female student, who was sitting with Sandeep, got up and checked Kaur, who was then motionless. A few students could be seen entering the classroom after hearing the sound of shots being fired, but ran away after seeing Sandeep. Sandeep's mother Harjinder Kaur said she got a call from the school authorities, asking her to reach college immediately. "I was not told that she (Sandeep) was shot," Harjinder told reporters, adding that when she reached the college, she found her daughter lying motionless. She questioned how a student could enter the college with a weapon. The police said further investigation into the matter was underway. Raj hailed from Mallian village, while Sandeep was a resident of Naushehra Pannuan village. A controversial Gujarati play was performed in Surat, Vadodara, and Bhavnagar on February 4, 5 and 6 during its Gujarat tour without any controversy. IMAGE: The Mahatma Gandhi assassination trial at the special court at the Red Fort on May 27, 1948. Front row, left to right: Nathuram Godse, Narayan Apte and Vishnu Ramkrishna Karkare. Seated behind, left to right: Digambar Badge, Shankar Kistaiya, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (wearing a black cap), Gopal Godse and Dattatraya Sadashiv Parachure. Photograph: Photodivision Key Points The play, 'Hu Nathuram,' (Me Nathuram), was scheduled to be staged at 9 PM at Pandit Deendayal Auditorium in Ahmedabad. Youth Congress and NSUI activists protested against the play, alleging it glorified Godse's actions. The play faced prior disruptions and cancellations in Rajkot and Jamnagar before the Ahmedabad cancellation. Congress leaders argue the play is an attempt by the RSS to justify Godse's assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. The play's producer defends the production, stating it does not glorify Godse and that violence against the play is hypocritical. The scheduled staging of a Gujarati play themed on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was cancelled on Monday in Ahmedabad amid protests by activists of Youth Congress and NSUI who alleged that the drama was a "glorification" attempt. The play, Hu Nathuram' (Me Nathuram), was scheduled to be staged at 9 PM at Pandit Deendayal Auditorium in Ahmedabad, organisers said. "The play was performed in Surat, Vadodara, and Bhavnagar on February 4, 5 and 6 during its Gujarat tour without any controversy. However, it ran into trouble after Youth Congress activists vandalised the set at Rajkot where it was scheduled to be performed on February 7," said Jayesh Oza, an organiser. Subsequently, the shows were cancelled in Jamnagar and Ahmedabad on February 8 and 9, respectively, he added. Gujarat Congress president Amit Chavda alleged the play is an attempt by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh to prove Godse right for his act (assassinating Mahatma Gandhi). "We won't allow staging of such plays in Gandhiji's Gujarat as long as Congress and the people who follow Gandhiji's ideology are here," he said. Echoing Chavda, his colleague and Congress spokesperson Parthivrajsinh Kathvadia said the party won't allow glorification of Godse through such plays. "The people of Gujarat rejected Godse's ideas. After Rajkot and Jamnagar, the play has now been cancelled in Ahmedabad as well. Godse has always been a villain for Gujarat and India, and Gandhiji was, is, and will remain a hero of India and the world," he said. The play's producer, Sejal Painter, took a dim view of the vandalism of the set, saying that we would have explained the theme of the play had they discussed their objection with us peacefully. "Those people who are opposing and vandalising the set of the play should not have resorted to violence if they call themselves followers of Gandhiji. We haven't made Nathuram a hero. In the play, Nathuram's character says, 'If I killed Gandhiji, then I too must die," she said. The court cited insufficient evidence to prove Singh's involvement with the alleged organised crime syndicate led by Lawrence and Anmol Bishnoi. IMAGE: NCP leader Baba Siddique. Photograph: Courtesy @zeeshanBabaS/X Key Points The court granted Singh, a resident of Punjab, bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh and directed him to not to leave Mumbai until the trial is over in the case. The court cited insufficient evidence to prove Singh's involvement with the alleged organized crime syndicate led by Lawrence and Anmol Bishnoi. Singh was granted bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh and is restricted from leaving Mumbai until the trial concludes. The prosecution's case against Singh primarily relied on a single phone call to a co-accused, which the court deemed insufficient to establish his connection to the crime syndicate. Confessional statements from other accused in the case did not mention Singh, further weakening the prosecution's case. The Bombay high court on Monday granted bail to Akashdeep Karaj Singh, an accused in the murder of Nationalist Congress Party leader and former MLA Baba Siddique, making him the first person to get relief in the case. A bench of Justice Neela Gokhale, in the order, said undoubtedly the offence committed by the organised crime syndicate, alleged to be headed by Lawrence and Anmol Bishnoi, was a "serious offence". However, after perusing the prosecution evidence with regard to Singh, the court said it was "unable to form an opinion that there are reasonable grounds, at this stage, for believing that the accusations against the applicant of commission of the offence under the MCOCA are prima facie true". The court granted Singh, a resident of Punjab, bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh and directed him to not to leave Mumbai until the trial is over in the case. Siddique (66) was shot dead by three assailants outside his son Zeeshan's office in the Bandra East area on the night of October 12, 2024. Singh (22), who was arrested in November 2024, is the first accused to have secured bail in the case. Justice Gokhale in the order said the prosecution case against Singh hinges on one call made by him to a co-accused. The bench, however, noted that one call cannot connect Singh with an organised crime syndicate, unless it clearly demonstrated that he had knowledge that the co-accused was engaged in the syndicate. "A bare allegation unsupported by any material that the applicant (Singh) made international calls to supporters of the Organised Crime Syndicate in Canada, does not indicate his complicity in the offence," HC said. The court also noted that the confessional statements of two accused in the case have no mention of Singh. The confessional statements describe in detail their own role as well as the role of other accused in the case but Singh's name is "eloquently absent", Justice Gokhale said. The accused, in his bail plea, claimed he was implicated in the case and that the allegations levelled against him were baseless and vague. Singh claimed he is only accused of being a member of an organised crime syndicate, and no specific role has been attributed to him in the present case. He also contended the trial in the case would not start in the near future, and said incarceration without trial was violative of his fundamental rights. In January this year, the police filed a chargesheet in the case, showing Anmol Bishnoi, brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, as a wanted accused. According to the prosecution, Anmol Bishnoi hatched a conspiracy to kill Siddique to instil fear and dominance over the crime syndicate. The police have arrested 26 people in the case and booked them under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). They are currently in judicial custody. The Lancet study revealed that the HbA1c test is erroneous in populations with anemia and other hemoglobin-related deficiencies in India. Kindly note that this illustration was generated using ChatGPT and is intended solely for representational purposes. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. For most doctors and patients, the gold standard for testing blood sugar was the HbA1c test. This crucial test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months by checking the percentage of hemoglobin coated with glucose. A normal range is below 5.7 per cent, while prediabetes is 5.7 per cent to 6.4 per cent, and diabetes is greater than or equal 6.5 per cent. HbA1c test reliability in India However, a study published in the Lancet Regional Health: Southeast Asia on February 9, 2026, revealed spurious results in the HbA1c test in populations with anemia (endemic in India), hemo-globinopathies and red blood cell enzyme (G6PD) deficiency. The Lancet, incidentally, is a prestigious peer-reviewed general medical journal founded in England. Lancet study on diabetes diagnosis The study led by Professor Anoop Misra, MD-Chairman, Fortis C-DOC Center of Excellence for Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, New Delhi, questioned the reliance on HbA1c as the sole monitoring tool for Type 2 diabetes in South Asia. Other co-authors included Dr Shashank R Joshi, Department of Endocrinology, Joshi Clinic, Mumbai; Dr Shambo Samrat Samajdar, Department of Out-Patient Clinic, Diabetes and Allergy-Asthma Therapeutics Specialty Clinic, Kolkata and Dr Naval K Vikram, MD, Professor of Medicine, All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Anemia impact on HbA1c results The reason this test is now seen as unreliable is because it primarily reflects the glycation (attachment of sugar to a protein) of hemoglobin. Therefore, any condition that affects the quantity, structure or lifespan of hemoglobin --such as anemia, hemoglobinopathies, or other red blood cell disorders -- can distort HbA1c values and lead to misleading results. Hemoglobin disorders and G6PD deficiency The study used publicly available data in MEDLINE (online biomedical literature), Scopus (a scientific database) and Google Scholar from January 1990 to October 2025 to select studies, randomised controlled trials, national survey reports and clinical guidelines for the final results. Prediabetes misclassification risk "Relying exclusively on HbA1c can result in misclassification of diabetes as some individuals may be diagnosed later than appropriate," Professor Anoop Misra says, "while others could be misdiagnosed." Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) push What makes this study important to India is that it has a high number of diabetics, estimated at over 100 million, and with over 136 million pre-diabetics. A comprehensive analysis of 157 studies between 1995 and 2023 reported an overall anemia prevalence of 53 per cent among adults aged 19-59 years, with substantial regional variation -- 64 per cent in the northern region to 39 per cent in the north-east. States such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra report higher incidence of these disorders, particularly among the tribal populations. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) In fact, the link between glucose regulation and hemoglobin glycation was established in 1976 and the HbA1c test became the gold standard for assessing glycemic control. In 2010, it was also proposed for diagnosis of prediabetes and diabetes due to its convenience (no requirement for fasting blood). Laboratory standardisation gaps in India Despite this, the utility of HbA1c as a diagnostic and monitoring tool was questioned. Glucose levels during the preceding 30 days account for approximately 50 per cent of the HbA1c value, while the rest 50 per cent reflects glycemia over the prior 90 to 120 days. Data from the Diabetes Prevention Program showed that fasting glucose often under-represents glycemic burden, whereas postprandial glucose, particularly after lunch, correlates more closely with HbA1c. This suggests that HbA1c may under- or over-estimate mean glucose levels. One of the reasons for this discordance is variation in red blood cell lifespan and regulation of hemoglobin modification. Such discordant results may lead to misclassification of diabetes status, especially in those with coexisting conditions like anemia. There are many causes for such divergent results. These include genetic blood disorders such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia, enzyme deficiency or anemia. In some regions of India, over 50 per cent of the population has iron deficiency anemia. Reliance on HbA1c alone could delay diagnosis by up to four years in men with such deficiency, increasing the risk of complications. Even a recent blood transfusion can affect results as donor red blood cells may dilute or distort HbA1c. In addition, poor and inconsistent quality control across laboratories can affect HbA1c accuracy. A survey of 147 National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories-accredited laboratories in India found that while glucose testing was universal, HbA1c testing was available in 87 per cent of labs, but poorly standardised. Significant variation existed in test nomenclature, methodology, and analytical performance. Several studies have shown a mismatch between HbA1c and glucose levels in India. In a recent cross-sectional study of 1,120 Asian Indians in south India, there were far more cases of prediabetes (87.8 per cent) than HbA1c (45.4 per cent). In 1,972 Asian Indian adults in north India, HbA1c under-diagnosed pre-diabetes compared with oral glucose tolerance test. "Even in well-resourced urban hospitals," Dr Shashank Joshi says, "HbA1c readings can be influenced by red blood cell variations and inherited hemoglobin disorders. "In rural and tribal areas, where anemia and red cell abnormalities are common, the discrepancies may be greater." Interestingly, seasonal variations in HbA1c levels were also seen in Indians. A study of 8,138 Indian patients found variations in HbA1c levels, with peaks during the monsoon (June-September) and the lowest levels in autumn (October-November). Patients with well-controlled diabetes exhibited higher HbA1c levels during winter and the monsoon, whereas those with HbA1c greater than 6.5 per cent showed lower values during the monsoon and autumn. The study found that among global studies, in most low- and middle-income regions, isolated elevated HbA1c was more common than isolated elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels. In these regions, the use of FPG alone may delay diabetes diagnosis. So what is the solution? The study says that it would be best to integrate oral glucose tolerance test, self monitoring of blood glucose, and whenever possible, do continuous glucose monitoring to get accurate results of blood glucose levels. The study recommends that in low-resource settings, oral glucose tolerance test (2 glucose values, one fasting and another 2 hours after ingesting 75 gm glucose) be used for diagnosis. For self-monitoring, use glucose meters 2-3 times weekly combined with basic hematologic screening (hemoglobin, blood smear). There is variance in various test costs, the study found. While glucose meter cost around Rs 500-1500, glucose testing strips cost between Rs 15-25, basic complete blood count (CBC) in labs is between Rs 150-400, while an HbA1c test is between Rs 300-600. The study has recommended that for diagnosis of prediabetes, standardised oral glucose tolerance test should remain the gold standard for diagnosis. HbA1c may be used to corroborate this diagnosis but should not serve as the sole diagnostic tool. The study has obviously not sugarcoated this illness. Key Points A Lancet study warns that the HbA1c test can give misleading results in Indians with anemia, hemoglobin disorders and G6PD deficiency. Relying only on HbA1c may delay or wrongly classify diabetes and prediabetes in India. Indias high burden of anemia makes HbA1c less reliable for a large section of the population. The study recommends using oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and glucose monitoring along with HbA1c, not HbA1c alone. Poor standardisation of HbA1c testing across Indian laboratories further affects accuracy. Shobha John is a senior journalist. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff The explosion happened last week at the illegal mine in the remote Thangsku area in Mynsngat village. IMAGE: Rescue operations are underway at an illegal rat-hole coal mine blast site to rescue the trapped mine workers, in East Jaintia Hills on Saturday. Photograph: ANI Video Grab Key Points Meghalaya government orders a judicial inquiry into the illegal coal mine blast that killed 27. The inquiry will investigate the circumstances of the mining incident and fix responsibility. Rat-hole mining was banned in Meghalaya in 2014, but illegal extraction continues. The blast triggered a large-scale search and rescue operation involving multiple agencies. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday announced a judicial inquiry into the blast at the illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district that claimed the lives of 27 people. The explosion happened last week at the illegal mine in the remote Thangsku area in Mynsngat village. 'The Government has decided to constitute a Judicial Inquiry Commission under the Commission of Inquiry Act to investigate the recent tragic mining incident in Mynsngat -- Thangsko area in East Jaintia Hills,' Sangma said in a post on X. The blast had triggered a massive search and rescue operation, involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, district administration and local volunteers. The operation continued for days before all the bodies were recovered. A senior officer of the Home Department said the judicial inquiry would examine the circumstances leading to the incident, fix responsibility and recommend measures to prevent such tragedies in future. Rat-hole mining in Meghalaya was prohibited by the National Green Tribunal in 2014 due to environmental concerns. Despite the ban, instances of illegal coal extraction continue to be reported from various districts. Rahul said the government is scared of having a discussion on the Budget because of the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, and its impact on farmers. IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi speaks in Lok Sabha during the ongoing Budget Session, in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab Key Points Rahul Gandhi claims PM Modi avoided Parliament due to the controversy surrounding former army chief Gen Naravane's book. Gandhi challenges claims of threats to PM Modi, urging accusers to file an FIR. The Congress leader suggests the government is hesitant to discuss the Budget due to concerns about the US deal and its impact on farmers. Gandhi alleges Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made false claims about the Naravane book being unpublished. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not come to the Lok Sabha to reply to the discussion on the motion of thanks to the President's address as he was scared of the issue of former army chief General M M Naravane's book. Gandhi also dared those claiming that there was a threat to the prime minister from members last Thursday to 'file an FIR' against the person threatening Modi. He said the government is scared of having a discussion on the Budget because of the issue of the United States deal, the way it was done, and its impact on farmers. "We are very disturbed about this idea that has been floated that members were going to threaten the PM. There is no question of that. The fact is very clear the prime minister was scared to come to the House not because of the members but because of what I was saying and he is still scared because he cannot face the truth," the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said. There was no question of the Congress members attacking the prime minister, he said. 'He (Modi) should have the courage to come. I also mentioned that 'look, if somebody has said that he is going to attack the PM. Please do an FIR, arrest that person'. Why you are not doing that!' Gandhi said. "The agreement is that we will be allowed to say these points and then the discussion should happen," he said. Gandhi said the opposition is quite keen that the discussion happens. "But let us see what the government says. My personal view is that the government is scared to have a debate. The PM did not come to the House. He was scared of what we say, he was scared of being handed Naravane's book as a first step," Gandhi said. "My guess is government is worried about having a debate on the Budget because the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, its impact on our farmers, is going to be discussed and the government does not want to do that," he said. Rajnath Singh made a false claim: Rahul Gandhi said the matter started a few days ago when the issue of the Gen Naravane book came to the fore. "The government did not want me to talk about it so they stalled the House. They did not let me speak. That happened 3-4 times. First, they said I cannot quote a book, then I said I am not quoting a book, I am quoting a magazine. Then they said you cannot quote a magazine. Then I said I will speak about it. They did not want me to speak about it," he said. Gandhi alleged that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made a false claim that the book was unpublished. "The book has been published and we have got a copy of it," the Congress leader said. "So, that is one big issue of not allowing the LoP and entire opposition in the President's address. One of their members quoted books and spoke vile stuff and nothing was said. We don't like the fact that they can say whatever they want whenever they want and the opposition cannot," he said. Gandhi listed the suspension of the Congress members and allegations against them of wanting to attack the prime minister as issues to be discussed. High-performing sales teams are 1.7 times more likely to use AI agents for prospecting than underperformers, according to Salesforces State of Sales report. Whats happening: Salesforce surveyed more than 4,000 sales professionals globally, including 250 in Australia and 100 in New Zealand, revealing AI agents as the top tactic to drive company growth in 2026. Why this matters: Gen Z sales representatives spend just 35% of their time selling, losing approximately two full hours each week to manual data entry, compared with senior reps who use that time researching prospects and building relationships. As sales teams kick off 2026 with ambitious new quotas, theyre turning to AI, especially agents, to hit their numbers. A new survey of more than 4,000 sales professionals, including 250 in Australia and 100 in New Zealand, reveals AI as the top tactic to drive company growth this year. The data also reveals why. Sales teams are increasingly stretched between changing customer demands and limited bandwidth to meet them. The real drag on productivity, the research suggests, isnt effort or skill. Its administrative bottlenecks, a challenge hitting Gen Z sellers hardest. This year, theyre turning to AI and agents to do more with what they have. Ninety-one per cent of Australian sales leaders with agents, and 92% of those in New Zealand, say theyre critical for meeting business demands. The grunt work tax The data shows its not a lack of hustle or skill holding sales teams back, its the grunt work tax thats a real drag on productivity across Australia and New Zealand, said Kevin Doyle, Regional Vice President for Agentforce & Data Cloud ANZ at Salesforce. We need to get these administrative roadblocks out of the way so sellers of all levels can focus on what they were hired to do: build relationships. AI agents are making that possible, and organisations across Australia and New Zealand are seeing the impact already. The grunt work tax is real. While globally the average seller spends 40% of their time selling, Gen Z representatives overall are trapped at just 35%, losing approximately two full hours each week to manual data entry. Meanwhile, senior representatives spend this time researching prospects and building relationships. Theyre also navigating a mentorship drought. Forty-six per cent rarely get feedback on their sales conversations, while 47% dont get enough roleplay opportunities before customer calls. When asked what prevents effective enablement, Gen Z points to lack of manager time as the number one obstacle, while millennials, Gen Xers, and baby boomers cite lack of access to data and insights. Propertys AI experiment One of Australias fastest-growing property development companies, Geocon, is exploring how agentic AI can qualify and nurture leads from organic channels, building a complete profile of the lead and hand off a sales-ready prospect to a human sales representative, boosting efficiency. In the world of property development and off-plan sales, time to engage matters, said Andy Magee, Chief Information Officer at Geocon. A potential purchaser rarely enquires on a single property at a time. This will often mean that the first developer to engage with the client in a meaningful way will win the race. By deploying Agentforce, we will be able to strike while the iron is hot, using autonomous agents to engage with leads and gather purchase details before handing a sales-ready prospect to a human rep. For us, this technology isnt just about efficiency. Its about creating a personalised buying journey that ensures we dont miss an opportunity. High performers lead adoption Eighty-eight per cent of Australian sales organisations currently use some form of AI for tasks like prospecting, forecasting, lead scoring, or drafting emails. That number is 92% for sales organisations in New Zealand. Ninety per cent of Australian sellers say AI deepens customer understanding, and 91% say it makes their job less stressful. Fifty-five per cent of Australian sellers say theyve used agents, and nearly four in 10 plan to by 2027. Once fully implemented, Australian sellers expect agents to cut prospect research time by 36% and email drafting by 37%, giving sales teams meaningful time back in their day. In New Zealand, this adoption is similar. Ninety per cent of sellers say AI deepens customer understanding and for 93% it makes their job less stressful. Fifty-four per cent also say theyve used agents, and 44% plan to by 2027. Adam Alfano, Executive Vice President of Sales at Salesforce, revealed how his own teams use AI agents to drive impact. AI agents have changed how we operate, he said. They help us onboard representatives and quote complex deals faster and personalise outreach with better intel. Plus, theyre prospecting 24/7. Its not just efficiency gains in one department, agents are reshaping our entire sales engine. The trend reflects broader adoption patterns across Australian business, where AI personalisation has begun outperforming traditional trade promotions, particularly in consumer goods sectors facing margin pressure. Forty-two per cent of Australian sales representatives and 34% of those in New Zealand point to cold calling as the worst part of their job, yet a strong pipeline requires more contacts and more engagement than teams can deliver on their own. Despite devoting nearly one full day of their workweek to prospecting efforts, 42% of Australias sellers say they lack bandwidth to do adequate cold outreach. To close the capacity gap, 54% of Australian sales professionals are using AI for prospecting, with another 44% planning to do so in the future. This figure is 60% in New Zealand, with 36% planning to do so in the future. Ninety-two per cent of global sellers with AI agents say it benefits their prospecting efforts. Globally, high performers, sellers who have substantially increased year over year revenue, are 1.7 times more likely to use agents to help with prospecting than underperformers who merely maintained or decreased year on year revenue. For Stephanie Wells, Area Vice President of Sales for Emerging and Small Business in ANZ for Salesforce, the data highlights how agentic AI can power growth. For Australian business leaders, every minute and every dollar counts. With agentic AI now a real growth driver for sales teams in 2026, were going to see more emerging and growing businesses move quickly to bridge critical skills gaps using agents. By deploying a limitless digital workforce that handles everything from complex prospect research to autonomous customer inquiries, growing and emerging businesses can scale their operations without needing immediate, massive increases in headcount. Data hygiene matters Sales teams, particularly high-performing ones, are tackling messy data to better support AI initiatives. To get the most from AI, sales professionals are focusing on trusted, connected data, with high performers leading the charge. Half of Australian sales leaders with AI say disconnected systems are slowing down their AI initiatives, while that number is only 37% in New Zealand. To help, 78% of Australian sales professionals and 71% in New Zealand are focusing on data cleansing, doing the unglamorous but essential work of removing duplicates, correcting errors or omissions, and standardising formats across siloed systems to maximise their AI returns. High performers take it further. Globally, 79% of them prioritise data hygiene compared with only 54% of underperformers overall. You cant just bolt an agent onto a mess and expect it to work, agreed Kevin Doyle. The secret sauce is unified data. If your agent doesnt have the full customer context, its going to give you garbage output. High-performing teams in ANZ get this, theyre prioritising data hygiene now so their AI actually delivers results later. Were seeing that those who fix their data foundation first are the ones seeing the biggest ROI now, demonstrating how local organisations can cover the last mile of AI and derive real value from it. The emphasis on AI-powered sales productivity tools continues to accelerate, with Australian sales teams investing in platforms that integrate seamlessly with existing CRM systems to reduce administrative burden and improve data accuracy. Explore Further Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. The bench took note of the affidavit filed by the Election Commission which alleged burning of its notices by some miscreants and directed Bengal DGP to file an affidavit in this regard IMAGE: People look for their names after the Election Commission in Uttar Pradesh releases the draft Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2026 voter list in Mirzapur, January 6, 2026. Photograph: ANI Photo Amid West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's apprehension of "mass exclusion" of voters in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in the state, the Supreme Court on Monday said it would not allow anyone to create an impediment in the exercise. Key Points A message must go that the Constitution of India applies to all states, the SC said The top court took note of the West Bengal government providing a list of 8,505 Group B officers to the poll panel During the hearing, senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Banerjee, raised apprehensions about the appointment of micro-observers A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N V Anjaria said it would issue whatever orders or clarifications are required in the matter. "We will not allow anyone to create any impediment in the SIR exercise. It must be clear to the states," the CJI said while hearing a batch of petitions, including the one filed by Banerjee, related to the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The bench took note of the affidavit filed by the Election Commission which alleged burning of its notices by some miscreants. It directed the West Bengal director general of police to file an affidavit in this regard. The poll panel said that so far, no FIR has been registered against the miscreants. "A message must go that the Constitution of India applies to all states," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said. The top court took note of the West Bengal government providing a list of 8,505 Group B officers to the poll panel, and said they may be trained and employed in the SIR process. The bench clarified that final decisions on revision of the electoral rolls will always be taken by the electoral roll officers. The bench said the manner of employment and work profile of these 8,505 officers will be decided by the poll panel. During the hearing, senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Banerjee, raised apprehensions about the appointment of micro-observers and mass exclusion of eligible voters in the SIR exercise. "We don't want any mass exclusion," Divan told the bench. Asked about reports that Opposition may move motion of no confidence against speaker Birla, Venugopal said, "You see what is happening in Parliament. You can see in this session, the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, is not being allowed to speak anything in this House." IMAGE: Floor leaders of the INDIA bloc meet in the office of the Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge in Parliament House complex, on Monday. Photograph: ANI on X Key Points The Opposition has decided to move a resolution under Article 94-C to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for disallowing LoP Rahul Gandhi from speaking on the Motion of Thanks. The notice also cites Birla's failure to act against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, suspension of eight Opposition MPs, and alleged unsubstantiated charges against women Congress MPs. The resolution is likely to carry around 100 MP signatures and may be submitted in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Opposition is considering giving a notice for moving a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, as well as for the suspension of eight MPs. At the same time, Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and some others met Birla on Monday afternoon to work out a solution to end the stalemate, as the House has not been functioning properly ever since the former Congress chief was not allowed to speak on the India-China issue last week. Sources said a notice for resolution in this matter would be given in the Lok Sabha soon, and signatures of MPs are being procured. As many as 103 MPs, including those from the Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Samajwadi Party, had already signed a notice for moving the resolution, the sources said, adding a final decision on when to give the notice against the Speaker would be taken on Tuesday. They added that a notice for the resolution is likely to be given under Article 94-C of the Constitution to the Lok Sabha secretary general, and over 100 opposition MPs have already signed it. However, the TMC is keen on taking up the SIR issue more vigorously, while the Samajwadi Party wants to highlight the alleged insult of Malwa queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, however, said that in a parliamentary democracy, the Opposition may bring the resolution, but they don't have the numbers. The notice is being given to move a resolution for the removal of the Speaker for disallowing the leader of the opposition from speaking in the House on the motion of thanks, for not initiating action against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for his unsubstantiated charges against women MPs of the Congress, and suspension of eight opposition MPs, the sources said. Rahul Gandhi, alongwith Trinamool Congress's Abhishek Banerjee, Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav and DMK's T R Baalu, met Birla soon after the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Monday, to work out a solution and end the stalemate. During the talks, the leaders are learnt to have raised various points on why the opposition was protesting in the House. Gandhi also told the Speaker that they were ready for a discussion, provided he was allowed to speak. The Congress and other opposition leaders are now awaiting the final decision of Speaker Om Birla, after he is learnt to have told the opposition leaders during the meeting that he would get back to them after speaking to the government side, the sources said. During the meeting, which lasted a few minutes, Gandhi and other leaders apprised the Speaker about the issues they wanted to raise in the House. Sources said Gandhi told the Speaker that he wanted to raise the issue of suspension of eight Congress MPs and other matters relating to Parliament, including the charges made against the women MPs. They urged the Speaker to revoke the suspension of eight MPs to end the stalemate. The Lok Sabha has not been functioning properly ever since Gandhi was not allowed to speak on February 2. The Rajya Sabha started the discussion on the Union Budget for 2026-27. After the meeting with Lok Sabha speaker, Gandhi claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not come to the lower House to reply to the discussion on the motion of thanks to the President's address as he was "scared" of former army chief MM Naravane's unpublished memoir. The Leader of Opposition dared those claiming there was a threat to the prime minister from MPs last Thursday to "file an FIR" against anyone threatening Modi. Gandhi said the opposition is quite keen that the discussion happens. He claimed the government was scared of having a discussion on the Budget because of the India-US deal, the way it was done, and its impact on farmers. "We are very disturbed about this idea that has been floated that members were going to threaten the PM. There is no question of that. The fact is very clear, the prime minister was scared to come to the House, not because of the members but because of what I was saying, and he is still scared because he cannot face the truth," he said. "He (Modi) should have the courage to come. If somebody has said that he is going to attack the PM, file an FIR, and arrest that person. Why are you not doing that?" Gandhi posed. "The agreement is that we will be allowed to say these points, and then the discussion should happen." "But let us see what the government says. My personal view is that the government is scared of having a debate. The PM did not come to the House. He was scared of what we say, he was scared of being handed Naravane's book as a first step," he added. Separately, women Congress MPs have written to Birla over the "unsubstantiated allegations" made by him against them. In the letter by several women MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, they objected to charges made by the speaker. The decision to give a notice to move the resolution for the removal of Birla from the office of Lok Sabha speaker was taken at a meeting of opposition leaders held in the chamber of Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge this morning. The TMC, the Left, DMK, SP, RJD, and RSP were among the parties that attended the meeting. If moved, this will be the fourth such notice against a sitting speaker of the Lok Sabha. The first such resolution was moved against the first Speaker, G V Mavalankar, which was defeated. Again, a resolution was moved against Speaker Hukum Singh, which could not be taken up due to a lack of numbers. The third was against Speaker Balram Jakhar, which was also defeated. Amidst ongoing disruptions in the Lok Sabha, some opposition parties are signaling a willingness to engage in the Budget debate, potentially breaking the deadlock IMAGE: Opposition MPs create a ruckus in Lok Sabha during the Budget Session, in New Delhi, February 9, 2026. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab Key Points SP chief Yadav said the opposition parties want the House to function. Banerjee, the leader of the TMC in the Lok Sabha, said orderly conduct of the House was essential. Rijiju said he cannot agree to a situation where the LoP alone will speak, make accusations, then create a ruckus and not let others speak. Opposition parties are considering a resolution to remove Speaker Om Birla from office due to the ongoing disputes. Discussions on the Budget have been repeatedly delayed due to the ongoing stand-off between the government and the opposition. Cracks appeared in the Opposition ranks as the Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress showed willingness to participate in the debate on the Budget instead of stalling the proceedings, with the government making it clear that it cannot allow Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to have his say and not let others speak. As deadlock in the Lok Sabha spilled into the second week, Home Minister Amit Shah and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju had a closed-door meeting with Speaker Om Birla in a possible effort to end the impasse. The Lok Sabha has been witnessing disruptions since February 2, after Gandhi was disallowed by the Chair from quoting from an article based on excerpts of former Army chief M M Naravane's "unpublished memoir", which has references to the India-China conflict of 2020. The Lok Sabha witnessed repeated adjournments on Monday as Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi rose to make his remarks, when the Chair had called Congress leader Shashi Tharoor to initiate the discussion on the General Budget. Congress leaders have been accusing the Speaker of being partisan and favouring the BJP-led ruling alliance and were planning a no-confidence motion against him along with a section of the opposition. Opposition leaders including Gandhi, Abhishek Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress, Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and T R Baalu (DMK) met the Speaker with their demands to be allowed to speak in the House and withdrawal of suspension of eight lawmakers. Yadav, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister, said the opposition parties want the House to function. "All of us in the Opposition want the House to function. This becomes even more important at a time when such a big deal has been signed with America a it is not a deal, it is a giveaway a to open up our markets," he said. Banerjee, the leader of the TMC in the Lok Sabha, said orderly conduct of the House was essential. "Elected opposition MPs must be given the time and opportunity to speak. They represent millions of citizens and their voices cannot be erased by arbitrary suspensions," he said. Rijiju said he cannot agree to a situation where the LoP alone will speak, make accusations, then create a ruckus and not let others speak. "That will not happen. We will not agree to that. If the Congress speaks, then we will insist that other members also be allowed to speak. We will not allow only the Congress party to speak," Rijiju said. The opposition is considering giving a notice for moving a resolution to remove Birla from office for disallowing Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address as well as for the suspension of eight MPs. When the Lok Sabha met at 2 pm after two adjournments, Sandhya Ray, who was in the Chair, asked Tharoor to initiate the debate on the Budget. Tharoor told the Chair that Gandhi, being the LoP, should be allowed to raise certain points before he started his speech. Ray said she had no issues if Gandhi wanted to speak on the Budget and asked him to begin. Gandhi said at a meeting between Speaker Birla and some opposition MPs, an agreement was reached that he would be allowed to raise certain points before the Budget discussion but the Chair was now reneging on its word. Ray said she was not aware of any such agreement and that she could not allow anyone to raise any issue without notice. At this point, Rijiju intervened, saying there was no such agreement and if the LoP wanted to say something about the Speaker, then Birla should also be present in the House to respond. Rijiju also said other members of the House would also speak on the subject and there would be a broader discussion. With neither side budging from its position, Ray adjourned the House for the day. The Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned twice earlier -- once at 11 am when the business of the day began and again after a few minutes of proceedings at 12 noon. On February 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not reply to the debate on the Motion of Thanks due to opposition protests. In an unprecedented move, the Motion of Thanks was passed on February 5 without the customary speech by the prime minister. The Speaker read out the Motion of Thanks to the President for her address and it was passed by a voice vote, amid sloganeering by opposition members. Birla also said that he received concrete information that many Congress MPs could carry out an "unexpected act" by reaching the spot where PM Modi sits and, therefore, he asked him not to come to the House to deliver his address. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra refuted this. The discussion on the Budget was listed for February 5, but could not be initiated due to the stand-off between the government and the opposition. The stalemate continued the next day as well. The House met on Monday after the weekend break. Eight opposition members were suspended for the remainder of Budget session for unruly behaviour in the House. The Supreme Court is examining the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act, focusing on his health and the justification for his continued custody amid allegations of inciting unrest in Ladakh IMAGE: Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk speaks on the violent protest over the statehood demand and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution in Leh, September 24, 2025. Photograph: Sonam Wangchuk X/ANI Video Grab Key Points Wangchuk's health condition is a key concern, with the court considering reports from AIIMS Jodhpur. The Centre maintains Wangchuk is receiving adequate medical treatment while in custody. Wangchuk's detention stems from allegations of inciting unrest in Ladakh, a claim he denies. The court has scheduled further hearings on the habeas corpus petition filed by Wangchuk's wife. The Centre on Monday informed the Supreme Court that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was in a "perfectly good" condition and was getting the best of the treatment from AIIMS, Jodhpur while in custody. A bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P B Varale was informed by additional Solicitor General K M Nataraj, appearing for the Centre, that no progress has been made as of now regarding the review of Wangchuk's detention. At the outset, Justice Kumar asked Nataraj whether any progress had been made at the court's request to review Wangchuk's detention in view of his deteriorating health. "What happened? Any progress? Has it been done?" Justice Kumar asked Nataraj. The ASG replied, "I will submit... Nothing has been done as of now. He is getting the best of treatment." A counsel for Wangchuk submitted that it was high time to reconsider his detention as he continued to be unwell. Justice Varale said that was what the court said on the last occasion when it made the suggestion. "There are issues, and it's not like you are not denying it, and he is also making a complaint of health issues. The doctor says yes, it is there, and now treatment is being provided. Admittedly, the health issue is there, and on the last day itself we made the suggestion," Justice Varale told Nataraj. ASG Nataraj submitted, "So far, the health issue is concerned, he is perfectly good. Jaipur is a better place to get treatment than Ladakh. There is AIIMS in Rajasthan, whereas in Ladakh, there would have been nothing." Justice Varale said, "No, no, you can't say that." Nataraj urged the bench to take up the matter after tomorrow. The bench told the ASG, "This is a habeas corpus petition. ASG Nataraj, you should understand that in a habeas corpus petition, you can't say that. On (last) Friday also, we could not take up the matter." However, the bench agreed to take up on Wednesday the plea of a habeas corpus petition filed by Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo seeking to declare his detention under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, as illegal. It clarified that no further adjournments will be granted. Earlier, appearing for Angmo, senior advocate Kapil Sibal moved an application seeking that a specialist doctor examine Wangchuk, as he had frequently complained of stomachache, possibly due to contaminated water. Wangchuk was examined by doctors at AIIMS Jodhpur following the court's order and a report was submitted to the court. On February 4, the top court asked the Centre if there was any possibility for the government to relook at Wangchuk's detention considering his health condition. The court observed that Wangchuk's health report was not good and asked ASG Nataraj to seek instructions in the matter. Nataraj said that he would put the suggestion to the concerned authorities. Last week, the Centre and the Ladakh administration told the apex court that Wangchuk was detained for instigating people in a border area where regional sensitivity is involved. Justifying Wangchuk's detention, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the bench that all procedural safeguards were followed while ordering his detention under the NSA. Earlier, the Centre said that Wangchuk tried to instigate Gen Z for protests like in Nepal and Bangladesh. Mehta said that Wangchuk even referred to Arab Spring-like agitation which has led to the overthrow of multiple governments in countries of the Arab world. The NSA empowers the Centre and states to detain individuals to prevent them from acting in a manner "prejudicial to the defence of India". The maximum detention period is 12 months, though it can be revoked earlier. On January 29, Wangchuk, who is under detention in the Jodhpur Central Jail, denied allegations that he made a statement to overthrow the government like the Arab Spring, emphasising that he has the democratic right to criticise and protest. Wangchuk was detained on September 26 last year, two days after violent protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh left four people dead in the Union Territory (UT). The government accused him of inciting the violence. The plea said it is wholly "preposterous" that Wangchuk would suddenly be targeted after more than three decades of being recognised at the state, national and international levels for his contributions to grassroots education, innovation and environmental conservation in Ladakh and across India. Angmo said the unfortunate events of violence in Leh on September 24 last year cannot be attributed to the actions or statements of Wangchuk in any manner. Wangchuk himself condemned the violence through his social media handles and categorically said violence would lead to the failure of Ladakh's "tapasya" and peaceful pursuit of five years, Angmo said, adding it was the saddest day of his life. The Supreme Court has affirmed the Madras high court's ruling to prohibit animal sacrifice and regulate prayer rights on Thiruparankundram hills, balancing religious freedom with the preservation of Hindu traditions. IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points The Supreme Court upheld the Madras high court's balanced order regarding religious practices on Thiruparankundram hills. The high court order prohibits animal sacrifice on the hills, aiming to maintain peace and order. Muslim devotees are granted limited prayer rights during Bakrid and Ramzan, respecting the Subramaniya Swamy temple's traditions. The Supreme Court declined to interfere with the high court's decision, emphasising its balanced approach to religious rights and traditions. The Supreme Court on Monday upheld a Madras high court's decision prohibiting animal sacrifice and granting Muslim devotees limited rights to prayers on the Thiruparankundram hills in Tamil Nadu's Madurai. SC bench refuses to interfere with HC order Underlining that the October 2025 order of the high court was balanced, a bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P B Varale declined to interfere with it. The apex court was hearing a plea which challenged the high court's order, claiming that it violated the fundamental right to freedom of religion. Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioner, said there had never been a law and order problem in the area, to which the bench said that there would not have been a peace committee meeting in the absence of such a problem. Balanced order, says SC "It seems to be a very balanced order... We do not propose to interfere with the order. Without expressing any opinion on the rights of the parties, the impugned order stands upheld," the bench said. The Madras high court had permitted prayers and gatherings in the Nellithoppu area during Bakrid and Ramzan, subject to the condition that it did not affect the traditional footsteps belonging to the Subramaniya Swamy temple. It had, however, said that animal sacrifice, cooking, carrying and serving of non-vegetarian food cannot be permitted until a decision was made by the competent civil court. Pawar, an oral cancer survivor, was suffering from throat infection, persistent cough, and chest congestion, party sources said. IMAGE: NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar. Photograph: ANI Video Grab Key Points Sharad Pawar, the NCP-SP chief, was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune due to cough and breathing difficulties. The 85-year-old leader was accompanied by his daughter Supriya Sule and her husband. Doctors are currently evaluating Pawar's condition to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Pawar, a former Union minister and oral cancer survivor, has been experiencing throat infection and chest congestion. Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar president Sharad Pawar was admitted to a private hospital in Pune city on Monday following a chest infection, and his health condition is stable, doctors treating him said. The 85-year-old Rajya Sabha member was brought to Ruby Hall Clinic in the afternoon from his residence in Baramati town in Pune district after he complained of difficulty in breathing and persistent cough. He underwent a series of medical tests at the hospital and is currently under treatment in a general ward, said the doctors. A CT (computed tomography) scan was performed on Sharad Pawar and it showed infection in his chest, Ruby Hall Clinic chief cardiologist and managing trustee Dr Parvez Grant said. Dr Abhijit Lodha, one of the treating doctors, said, "Due to physical exertion, he developed cough and chest congestion. Various tests have been conducted, and treatment is currently underway. His condition is stable. Any modifications to the treatment will be decided once all test reports are received. His vital parameters, including oxygen saturation levels, are stable. He is in a regular room and is not in the ICU." The hospital, in a statement released late in the evening, noted that their initial assessment showed the veteran politician's heart rate and oxygen levels were stable. "However, his respiratory rate is slightly elevated. There is a possibility that he may be kept under hospital observation for a day," said the hospital. The senior Pawar was accompanied by daughter and Lok Sabha member from Baramati Supriya Sule and her husband Sadanand Sule when he was brought to the hospital. Immediately after arrival from Baramati, around 100 km from Pune city in western Maharashtra, the former Union minister, who lost his nephew and deputy CM Ajit Pawar in an air crash on January 28, was wheeled inside the leading private hospital. The former Maharashtra CM, who came in an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), came out of the vehicle on his own before being taken inside the medical facility in a wheelchair. The octogenarian politician is an oral cancer survivor. In a post on X, Sule said, "Baba (referring to her father) has developed chest congestion and will need a 5-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your good wishes and constant support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart." Sule also spoke to the doctors and requested them that treatment be carried out strictly as per the hospital's protocol, said the statement. Later in the evening, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar (wife of Ajit Pawar) along with son Parth visited the hospital to enquire about the wellbeing of the NCP-SP president. Asked about the hospitalisation of the senior Pawar, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis noted that the stress of recent developments (referring to the death of his nephew Ajit Pawar) may have taken a toll on the veteran leader's health. "Our prayers and good wishes are with him," Fadnavis said while talking to reporters in Mumbai. NCP-SP MLA Rohit Pawar, grandnephew of Sharad Pawar, appealed to party workers not to gather outside the hospital. "In the last 12 to 13 days, Pawar saheb has been on the go and meeting people in Baramati and due to this exertion, he developed stress. Doctors diagnosed congestion in the chest. I think Pawar saheb will be staying in the hospital for next couple of days and later he will be heading to Mumbai," he said. Parliament was disrupted on Monday as clashes between the government and the Opposition over Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's demand to speak before the Union Budget discussion led to the adjournment of the Lok Sabha and an uproar followed by a walkout in the Rajya Sabha. IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP KC Venugopal, and other Congress MPs during the ongoing Budget Session, in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab Key Points Lok Sabha adjourned due to a stand-off between the government and opposition. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, demanded to speak before the Union Budget discussion. The Speaker and some opposition MPs reportedly reached an agreement that was not honored. Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, raised the issue as soon as the Question Hour started at 12 noon. Chairman C P Radhakrishnan allowed Kharge to speak, adding that he should not speak on anything that happened in the other House. Lok Sabha The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Monday amid a stand-off between the government and the opposition over Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi's demand that he be allowed to speak before the discussion on the Union Budget begins. When the House met at 2 pm after two adjournments, Sandhya Ray, who was in the Chair, asked Congress member Shashi Tharoor to initiate the debate on the Budget. Tharoor told the Chair that Gandhi, being the LoP, should be allowed to raise certain points before he starts his speech. Ray said if Gandhi wants to speak on the Budget, she had no issues and asked him to begin. Gandhi said an agreement was reached at a meeting between Speaker Om Birla and some opposition MPs that he would be allowed to raise certain points before the Budget discussion, but the Chair was now going back on its word. Ray said she was not aware of any such agreement and that she could not allow anyone to raise any issue without notice. At this point, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju intervened, saying there was no such agreement and if the LoP wanted to say something about the Speaker, then Birla should also be present in the House to respond. Rijiju also said other members of the House would also speak on the subject and there would be a broader discussion. With neither side budging from its position, Ray adjourned the House for the day. Rajya Sabha The Rajya Sabha on Monday witnessed an uproar and a walkout by the Opposition over the incidents of the Lok Sabha, where Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi could not finish his speech, and later Prime Minister Narendra Modi stayed away amid allegations that women MPs could have attacked him. Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, raised the issue as soon as the Question Hour started at 12 noon. Chairman C P Radhakrishnan allowed Kharge to speak, adding that he should not speak on anything that happened in the other House. "I am only raising issues concerning the Constitution... Parliament consists of our House and Lok Sabha... and the Constitution recognises these two Houses... We have to run according to procedures and rules..." Kharge said and went ahead to mention the Leader of Opposition in the Lower House is 'not being allowed to speak'. Radhakrishnan, however, did not allow him to raise the issue relating to the Lok Sabha and said 'nothing that he says will go on record'. The Chairman proceeded with the Question Hour. However, Kharge and other Opposition leaders continued to stand in their seats, demanding to be allowed to speak. As the Chairman did not relent, Opposition MPs started raising slogans, accusing the ruling BJP of insulting women MPs. MPs of all the INDIA bloc parties were on their feet, except the TMC. After raising slogans for a while, the Opposition MPs staged a walkout from the House, and the Question Hour continued. Lok Sabha has been witnessing disruptions since February 3 after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi was disallowed by the Chair from quoting from an article based on excerpts of former Army chief General M M Naravane's 'unpublished memoir' in which he has referred to the India-China conflict of 2020. Eight Opposition MPs have also been suspended from the House. On February 5, an anguished Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he had 'concrete information' that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's seat and carry out 'some unexpected act' as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. Congress' women MPs in the Lok Sabha, meanwhile, wrote to Birla on Monday, claiming that under pressure from the ruling party to defend the 'non-appearance' of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he made grave allegations against them. Several Opposition parties have decided to move a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya was detained in Bengaluru while protesting a metro fare hike, advocating for affordable public transportation and accountability from the state government. IMAGE: BJP MP Tejashwi Surya. Key Points BJP MP Tejasvi Surya was detained for protesting against the Bengaluru Metro fare hike. The protest aimed to highlight the need for affordable public transport in Bengaluru. The metro fare hike has been temporarily put on hold following intervention. Surya's protest included symbolic actions to criticize the state government's promises. The protest was also a response to criticism from the Deputy Chief Minister regarding Surya's public engagement. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya was on Monday detained for staging a demonstration at Jayanagar Metro station demanding affordable public transport in the city, police said Surya, who is also the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) national president, staged protest at the Metro Station against the Metro fare hike, which has been increased from Re one to Rs five depending on the distance. The hike has now been put on hold. Surya protested with empty trunk According to Surya, it happened after the Centre's intervention. The MP staged demonstration with an empty trunk to convey that the state government's promises are empty trunk. The protest was also in response to Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's statement that Surya is an empty trunk who is more active on social media and not on the ground. Surya's Reaction to Detention Speaking to PTI after being detained, Surya said, "Just because we are asking for affordable public transport and accountability, the government is forcing arrest and detention. It's shameful." He said that instead of providing roads, infrastructure and better amenities, the state government is "arresting" him. Speaking to reporters, he also said, "Metro fare hike has been put on hold for the second time due to pressure from the Union government. The state government should release a white paper on the economic situation. The murder is allegedly the handiwork of another prisoner, Arun Chaudhary, who was recently transferred the facility from Jammu and Kashmir. Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com Key Points Terror accused Abdul Rehman was murdered in Neemla Jail, Faridabad, after a fight with another inmate. Arun Chaudhary, recently transferred from Jammu and Kashmir, is suspected of stabbing Rehman with a sharp weapon. Rehman was arrested in 2025 for allegedly plotting an explosion in Ayodhya and suspected links with Pakistani intelligence agency ISI. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the jail murder and the sequence of events leading to the altercation. Rehman's parents denied the terror allegations against him. Terror accused Abdul Rehman, who was lodged in Neemla Jail, was murdered following a fight inside prison premises, police said on Monday. According to the police, the murder is allegedly the handiwork of another prisoner, Arun Chaudhary, who was recently transferred the facility from Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred on Sunday night when a quarrel broke out between the two inmates. During the altercation, Chaudhary, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, stabbed Rahman with a sharp-edged weapon. Rehman died on the spot inside the jail premises. A senior police officer said that a probe is underway to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the clash between the two prisoners. Rehman involved in conspiracy to carry out blast in Ayodhya Rehman, a resident of Milkipur in Uttar Pradesh's Faizabad district, had been in custody since June 2025 following his arrest in March that year. He was apprehended from Pali village near Faridabad by a joint team of Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad and a Special Task Force (STF) of Haryana Police. A first information report (FIR) against Rehman was filed at Dabua Police Station in Faridabad. At the time of his arrest, officials had stated Rehman was involved in a conspiracy to carry out an explosion in Ayodhya. He was suspected of having links with Pakistani intelligence agency ISI, an STF official had said on the condition of anonymity. Two mobile phones were seized from Rehman's possession. In the mobiles, some incriminating videos were also found, sources had said, adding that they also found he had shared several videos with a terror outfit. Haryana STF had received information that a sleeper cell could be supporting Rehman as they provided hand grenades to him, sources had said. Rehman's parents rejected the allegations, stating he was not involved in any terror activities. Eyewitnesses said the car first hit an autorickshaw and then crashed into a stationary motorcycle, flinging its rider nearly 10 feet into the air. IMAGE: The black Lamborghini that hit several people near the Rev 3, at Gwaltoli police station in Kanpur on Sunday. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points A Lamborghini, allegedly driven by the son of a tobacco trader, struck pedestrians and two-wheelers in Kanpur, injuring at least six people. The luxury car reportedly went out of control near Rev-3 Mall, causing panic and significant injuries to those nearby. Eyewitnesses reported the car hitting an auto-rickshaw and a parked motorcycle, sending the rider flying. Angry locals confronted the driver and his associates, alleging aggressive behavior and prompting police intervention. Police have seized the vehicle and are investigating the incident, with an FIR to be registered based on complaints from the injured. A first information report (FIR) has been registered against an 'unidentified person' after a speeding Lamborghini allegedly driven by a tobacco baron's son ploughed into pedestrians in Kanpur, leaving at least six injured, police said on Monday. Police said the name of Shivam Mishra, son of Banshidhar Exports Pvt Ltd's owner K K Mishra, is not there in the FIR, but he is part of the investigation. Recalling the horror, which unfolded on VIP Road in the upscale Gwaltoli area on Sunday, eyewitnesses said the car first hit an autorickshaw and then crashed into a stationary motorcycle, flinging its rider nearly 10 feet into the air. The car mounted the motorcycle's front wheel and dragged it for some distance before hitting an electric pole and coming to a halt. An FIR was registered in the matter against an unidentified person late on Sunday night, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Atul Kumar Srivastava said. No one has been detained in connection with the incident, the DCP said in a response to a question, adding that a detailed probe is underway. Asked if the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, the officer said it will be known once the probe has been completed. According to Gwaltoli police, footage from multiple CCTV cameras installed at nearby shops, traffic intersections and residential buildings is being examined to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine the speed of the vehicle at the time of the crash. The accused driver has been identified as Shivam Mishra. He is under close surveillance to prevent any attempt to evade the investigation, according to police. Statements of the injured victims and eyewitnesses are being recorded, while the black Lamborghini has been seized and sent for mechanical inspection, police said. The on-road price of Lamborghini Revuelto, an Italian luxury sports car which was being driven allegedly by Shivam Mishra at the time of the accident, costs upwards of Rs 10 crore. Gwaltoli Station House Officer (SHO) Santosh Gaur told PTI that the FIR has been registered under charges of rash and negligent driving and causing hurt based on a complaint filed by an injured, Taufiq, a resident of Chamanganj. The name of Shivam Mishra has emerged during the investigation. No arrest has been made so far, the SHO said. Taufiq was thrown several metres and suffered serious leg injuries. The remaining injured sustained fractures and bruises, police said. All injured have been discharged from the hospital. According to officials, further legal action will follow based on the findings of the probe. K K Mishra's Banshidhar Exports Pvt. Ltd. supplies tobacco to gutkha manufacturers in the region. The officials said the Mishras had come under the scanner of the Income Tax Department in March 2024. The department conducted searches at multiple premises in Delhi and Kanpur, and found luxury vehicles and around Rs 4.5 crore in cash. Among the seized cars was a Rolls-Royce Phantom, McLaren, Porsche and the black Lamborghini Revuelto involved in Sunday's accident. Many of them bore the distinctive registration number '4018', the official added. Jewellery and expensive watches were also seized. On Sunday, DCP Srivastava told reporters, "The accident occurred around 3.15 pm near Rev-3 Mall when the luxury car, allegedly driven by Shivam Mishra, the son of businessman K K Mishra, went out of control and ploughed into people standing along the roadside and several vehicles, triggering panic in the area." Angry locals gathered at the spot after the accident and surrounded the car, forcing the driver to remain inside. Witnesses alleged that private bouncers accompanying the accused tried to push back the crowd and behaved aggressively, escalating tension. Police rushed to the spot, rescued the driver and shifted him and the injured to a private hospital, officials said. At the police station, the victims and local residents alleged misbehaviour by the associates of the accused and claimed that police were going soft on him due to his family's influence. Some alleged that pressure was being exerted for a compromise. Sonu Tripathi, one of the injured, told mediapersons that he and his cousin were standing near their motorcycle when the car hit them. He said his cousin fell and two other persons were flung onto the footpath. "We have filed a complaint," he said. NSW legislation could grant union officials access to nearly every digital system businesses use. Industry leaders say the bill needs fundamental changes before Parliament votes. Whats happening: Ten major business organisations have issued a joint statement warning that NSW legislation would grant union officials digital access to workplace systems including emails, payroll, customer databases and financial records across every business in the state. Why this matters: The legislation arrives as businesses report compliance has become harder over the past year, with the bill introduced without regulatory impact statements or formal consultation with the small business sector it will affect most. A coalition of Australias peak business organisations has united to oppose NSW Government legislation they say will put sensitive personal data at risk and seriously undermine major projects across the state. The joint statement, issued by ten industry bodies including the Business Council of Australia, Australian Industry Group and Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, warns the Work Health and Safety Amendment (Digital Work Systems) Bill 2025 would grant union officials access to a wide range of workplace digital systems. The legislation would apply to every workplace in NSW, from small retailers and hospitality venues to construction sites, housing developments, hospitals, schools, manufacturers, miners and government agencies that hold large volumes of confidential personal data, according to the joint statement. Matthew Addison, Chair of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, described the legislation as a trojan horse that grants union officials with WHS entry permits unprecedented access to business digital systems, including platforms containing payroll data, customer lists, pricing algorithms, and operational strategies, with penalties for businesses that fail to provide reasonable assistance. The bill defines a digital work system broadly as an algorithm, artificial intelligence, automation or online platform , potentially capturing almost every piece of software used in modern workplaces. Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black warned that giving unions open-ended powers to access and inspect workplace digital systems is dangerous and reckless it puts the privacy of workers at risk and forces businesses to hand over highly sensitive commercial data without appropriate safeguards. The NSW Government introduced the bill through Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis, who said through this bill, the government aims to ensure that digital workplace systems help businesses and do not undermine the health and safety of workers. Minister Cotsis added that if a system tracks you, times you, and pushes you beyond safe limits its not innovation, its exploitation. The legislation responds to a 2022 parliamentary committee report on technological change and its impact on workers psychosocial health. According to Sophie Cotsiss Second Reading Speech, examples of inspectable items include code or algorithms, performance metrics, records, data logs, and audit trails generated by digital systems. Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Small business advocates have raised particular concerns about the compliance burden. Addison said compliance obligations within the bill are unclear, as it requires businesses to ensure digital systems dont create excessive, unreasonable or discriminatory outcomes, yet none of these terms are defined, leaving businesses uncertain about their obligations. The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia highlighted that the bill was introduced without any regulatory impact statement, cost analysis, or formal consultation with the small business sector, adding to concerns about rushed implementation. Helen Waldron, Australian Industry Group Head of New South Wales, said the proposed changes are entirely unnecessary and the unclear obligations they would impose on industry will undoubtedly be a catalyst for workplace disputation. Business groups also warned about timing issues. The federal government is currently convening discussions about whether to regulate artificial intelligence implementation at a national level, while Safe Work Australia has been tasked with a best practice review focusing on harmonisation of work health and safety laws. COSBOA warned that the legislation is being rushed through NSW Parliament before Safe Work Australia finalises national guidance on digital work systems, creating yet another instance of NSW breaking ranks on national workplace regulation, according to the organisations statement, urging Parliament to address fundamental concerns about privacy, cybersecurity and the protection of worker and customer data. Industry groups emphasised that current WHS legislation already requires businesses to manage all workplace risks, including those from digital systems, questioning the need for additional legislation. The organisations warned that the impact would be particularly severe for housing construction, major infrastructure, energy and resources projects, where complex digital systems are central to operations, with increased risk, uncertainty and delay directly undermining housing supply and investment decisions. The joint statement concluded that without amendment, the bill would make NSW an outlier and an investment killer. COSBOA has called for the NSW Government to exempt small businesses with fewer than 50 full time employees and to undertake meaningful consultation before progressing the bill, with businesses reporting that the cumulative regulatory burden can overwhelm enterprises, especially SMEs. The legislation remains before the NSW Parliament, with industry groups continuing to advocate for amendments that address concerns about data privacy, commercial confidentiality and alignment with national workplace frameworks. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Their letter to the Speaker comes days after Birla stated in the House that he had 'concrete information' that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's seat and carry out 'some unexpected act' as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. IMAGE: Suspended Lok Sabha MPs protest at the Parliament premises during the ongoing Budget Session, in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo Key Points Congress women MPs allege Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is biased and acting under pressure from the ruling party to defend PM Modi's absence. The MPs claim Birla made false allegations against them after they demanded accountability from Modi and protested his absence from the House. The Congress MPs assert that the Speaker is denying the Leader of the Opposition the opportunity to speak, violating parliamentary convention. The letter emphasises the importance of the Speaker's office in protecting the dignity of Parliament and ensuring fairness for all members. The MPs urge the Speaker to act as an impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha and uphold constitutional propriety. Congress' women MPs in the Lok Sabha wrote to Speaker Om Birla on Monday, claiming that under pressure from the ruling party to defend the 'non-appearance' of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he made grave allegations against them. They urged the Speaker to act as an impartial custodian of the Lower House. Their letter to the Speaker comes days after Birla stated in the House that he had 'concrete information' that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Modi's seat and carry out 'some unexpected act' as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. Speaking about the letter signed by her, along with other women MPs of the Congress, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "There is so much pressure on the Speaker which is not right. There is no question of anyone raising a hand on the PM or do anything like this. There are 11 women MPs, they are all serious MPs." "He (Birla) should not have made the statement, he has been pressured to say it by the government and that is why he made the statement because Modi ji did not have the courage to come to the House that day so the Speaker is giving clarification on his behalf. This is wrong," she told reporters. In their letter, the women MPs of the Congress in the Lok Sabha said that, clearly pressured by the ruling party to defend the 'non-appearance of the prime minister', Birla issued a statement making grave allegations against the women MPs of the party. "We are being targeted simply because we have consistently fought against Prime Minister Narender Modi's anti-people government and demanded accountability from him. His absence from the House was not due to any threat from us, it was an act of fear," said the letter signed by MPs like Priyanka Gandhi, Jyothimani, R Sudha, Varsha Gaikwad and Jyotsna Mahant. "He (PM) did not have the courage to face the Opposition. We are Members of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, a party that stands for love, peace, constitutional values, and human dignity. We do not believe in violence and intimidation. We are brave women elected representatives who will not be silenced by intimidation," the Congress' women MPs said. "We believe that transparency is the only way to restore the dignity of the Speaker's office and the credibility of this House," they said. The women MPs further said they have the utmost respect for the Speaker's office and for his good self. "However, it is amply clear that you are under sustained pressure from the ruling party. We urge you once again to act as the impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha. We will stand with you and support you wholeheartedly in this endeavour," the women MPs said. "Let history remember you as one who stood for what was right in the most trying circumstances and upheld constitutional propriety for the good of the nation. Let it not remember you as one who bowed to pressure from those who leave no stone unturned in subverting constitutional values and damaging the democratic fabric of our nation," they said. In the letter, the women MPs said they are writing to Birla with deep anguish and a strong sense of constitutional responsibility. "It is extremely unfortunate that you, as the Hon'ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the constitutional custodian of this august house, have been forced by the ruling party to make: false, baseless, and defamatory allegations against women Members of Parliament belonging to the Opposition, particularly from the Congress," the MPs said. "The Speaker's Chair is a constitutional office meant to protect the dignity of Parliament, ensure fairness, and safeguard the rights of all Members, irrespective of party affiliation," the MPs said. During the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address, established parliamentary convention mandates that both the ruling party and the opposition are allowed to speak, after which the prime minister replies, they said. "Yet, for the past four consecutive days, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Rahul Gandhi, has been deliberately denied this opportunity in the Lok Sabha. This is unprecedented and indefensible," they said. On the other hand, eight members of Parliament from the INDIA bloc were suspended on the behest of the ruling party and a BJP MP was permitted to speak in a vulgar and obscene manner about former prime ministers, they said. "...At 5 pm, violating conventional procedure, the prime minister was scheduled to speak in the Lok Sabha. All members of the INDIA alliance rose in protest and the prime minister failed to appear in the House," they said. "The next day, clearly pressured by the ruling party to defend the non-appearance of the prime minister, you issued a statement making grave allegations against the women MPs of the Congress," the MPs said. In an unprecedented development, the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on Thursday last without the prime minister's customary reply that was scheduled a day earlier in the face of relentless sloganeering by opposition members. An anguished Lok Sabha Speaker last Thursday said he had 'concrete information' that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Modi's seat and carry out 'some unexpected act' as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook. Ashley Matson is an English teacher at Leland & Gray Union Middle and High School in Townshend. The opinions expressed by columnists and op-ed writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media. The ATO is encouraging small businesses to reset their compliance habits for 2026, warning that avoidable mistakes contribute to a $27.2 billion income tax gap. Whats happening: The Australian Taxation Office is encouraging small businesses to start 2026 with stronger compliance habits as it accelerates efforts to collect more than $50 billion in unpaid tax. Why this matters: ATO Assistant Commissioner Angela Allen says avoidable mistakes contribute to the $27.2 billion small business income tax gap, urging owners to seek professional advice and implement practical cash flow management systems. The Australian Taxation Office is urging small businesses to reset their compliance habits as the new year begins, warning that failure to address tax obligations now could result in firmer recovery actions later. ATO Assistant Commissioner Angela Allen said the calendar year provides an opportunity for businesses to establish practices that will prevent problems throughout 2026 and beyond. Small business owners face multiple pressure points, from keeping accurate records to managing cash flow effectively. Part of the $27.2 billion small business income tax gap stems from mistakes rather than deliberate evasion, making professional guidance particularly valuable for navigating complexity. Allen emphasised that taking small practical steps immediately can make a substantial difference, whether setting funds aside to cover GST and PAYG withholding, staying current with ATO debts, or establishing calendar reminders for lodgement deadlines. The tax office is pursuing more than $50 billion in unpaid obligations, with small business debts continuing to expand despite resumed collection activities. Business owners who cannot pay obligations in full or on time are urged to engage with the ATO or registered tax practitioners early rather than avoiding contact. The ATO has stated explicitly that it operates as neither a bank nor a cheap financing source. Deliberately delaying tax payments to fund business operations creates an unfair competitive advantage over businesses meeting obligations punctually. Cash flow management remains among the most significant challenges for small businesses, with many owners discovering at business activity statement time that funds for GST or PAYG withholding have not been preserved separately. Allen recommended maintaining separate bank accounts for tax obligations, making it simpler to meet commitments and avoid unexpected shortfalls. Business owners are cautioned against using GST collected from customers or PAYG withholding collected from employees as working capital, despite the temptation to address short-term cash flow constraints. Using these amounts to fund operations may provide temporary relief but creates substantially larger problems when obligations become due, making recovery more difficult. The tax office continues observing instances where income is omitted from returns, particularly from businesses accepting cash payments or maintaining inconsistent record keeping practices. Accurate, consistent and complete record keeping constitutes a legal requirement beyond being sound business practice. Businesses still using physical storage methods for records should transition to digital systems. Sole traders can utilise the ATO app, which offers features including myDeductions, a tax withheld calculator and the business performance check tool. Small businesses should leverage the ATOs online services to monitor lodgement status and track outstanding debts. The tax office maintains quarterly updated compliance focus areas on its website, providing transparency about risks under scrutiny. Payday Super will require businesses to pay employees their superannuation guarantee with each pay period from July 2026. The ATO is urging small businesses to begin preparation now by reviewing payroll systems and superannuation processes to accommodate more frequent payments. Allen stressed the importance of working with registered tax practitioners for businesses needing support with ATO obligations, recommending verification through the Tax Practitioners Board. Obtaining tax advice from informal sources including friends or social media platforms is inadvisable. For business owners who have closed operations or are considering winding down in 2026, the ATO provides detailed guidance on required steps including cancelling ABNs, lodging final tax returns and business activity statements, and fulfilling payroll and superannuation obligations conclusively. Allen noted that closing a business properly helps avoid future compliance complications, ensuring a clean exit from tax obligations. The tax office has indicated it will take firmer action where deliberate non-compliance occurs, including shadow economy behaviours. Approximately 69 per cent of small business tax is paid on time with minimal ATO intervention, but a growing number of businesses with capacity to pay are waiting for pursuit before settling obligations or entering payment plans rather than paying in full. Small businesses owing money to the ATO face multiple potential enforcement measures. The tax office can issue garnishee notices to third parties holding funds, apply director penalty notices for company directors, offset tax credits against debts, refer matters to external debt collection agencies, and take legal action including statutory demands that could lead to winding up proceedings. The general interest charge currently applies at 11.38 per cent annually on unpaid tax debts, accumulating daily on outstanding balances. Payment plans can be arranged to break obligations into manageable instalments, though interest continues accruing during repayment periods. Analysis suggests approximately half of unpaid debt is owed by businesses showing financial resilience, indicating capacity to pay exists in many cases. The ATO employs data analysis to distinguish between businesses capable but unwilling to pay and those genuinely lacking capacity. For businesses experiencing genuine difficulty, early engagement with the ATO or trusted advisers provides the best opportunity to secure manageable arrangements and potentially mitigate penalties. Waiting until enforcement action is underway significantly limits available options. The tax office maintains that ensuring everyone pays their fair share meets community expectations, with its role as Australias principal tax collector carrying legal obligations that cannot be ignored. For businesses facing financial pressures, transparent communication proves crucial. The ATO encourages small businesses to use its support options and resources including the record keeping evaluation tool, the Cash Flow Kit, the Payday Super checklist and the online learning platform Essentials to strengthen your small business. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Its for real this time: After nearly 20 years, there will soon be no more Exchange Web Services (EWS) in Microsoft Exchange Online. The API will be disabled by default on 1 October, 2026, and will be completely shut down on 1 April, 2027, with no exceptions. Organisations must have switched to Microsoft Graph by then. However, admins can give themselves a little more wiggle room if they change a configure setting and create allow lists in EWS but they must do so by the end of August 2026, or theyll lose access to EWS on the cutoff date. Its important to note that this retirement process only applies to Microsoft 365 and Exchange Online. EWS will continue to function as usual in on-premises Exchange Server environments. Microsoft wants everyone to use Graph, which is better for them, and theoretically for you, said Jeremy Roberts, senior director for research and content at Info-Tech Research Group. EWS has been on the chopping block for ages, he noted. They announced that it would get no feature updates in 2018, so the writing really should have been on the wall a long time ago. A phased disablement plan EWS is a legacy cross-platform API for app development that provides access to mailbox items such as email addresses, contacts, and calendars in Exchange Online and post-2007 on-premises versions of Exchange Server. Its popular with system integrators connecting to in-house apps like Outlook, as well as with third parties. The API has been deprecated for nearly a decade and has received no functionality updates for eight years. Microsoft announced its retirement in 2023, warning that it would be fully disabled in Exchange Online in October 2026. It further confirmed in 2025 that Microsoft 365 and Office 365 F1 and F2 licence types would be prevented from using EWS beginning March 1, 2026. The tech giant calls this final retirement process a phased, admin controllable disablement plan. Alireza Karami is one of the victims who died in Tehran during Iran's violent crackdown on anti-regime protests. The image of his loyal dog, Ariel, at his graveside, has gained widespread attention on social media. Speaking with RFE/RL's Radio Farda, a close acquaintance said Karami was shot while trying to help an injured woman. Before his death, the 26-year-old auto body repairman left a touching testament for his beloved pet. Russia officials said the man they identified as the gunman who shot the No. 2 general in the Russian military intelligence agency purportedly told them he was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence. The February 9 statement by the Federal Security Service -- Russia's main domestic intelligence agency -- was the first time investigators have formally accused Ukraine of involvement in the shooting of Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev. The agency, known as the FSB, also released more surveillance video footage, including a nearly minute-long clip in which the alleged shooter -- identified as 65-year-old Lyubomir Korba -- was shown confessing to the crime. In the days following the February 6 shooting of Alekseyev, who is second in command at the military intelligence agency widely known as the GRU, authorities have released a daily drip of videos and accusations about the alleged plot. Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, had earlier alleged Ukrainian involvement but provided no evidence. Kyiv rejected that accusation. According to the security agency and investigators, Alekseyev was initially shot twice in the stairwell of a Moscow apartment building by a person disguised as a food delivery courier. As he fended off the attack, he was shot a third time, before the gunman fled. Officials said Alekseyev underwent emergency surgery but was fully expected to recover. Authorities alleged that Korba, a Ukrainian-born Russian citizen, was the gunman. He was reportedly extradited to Moscow from Dubai over the weekend. In the video, which could not be independently verified, the man said he was recruited by Ukraine's SBU security agency in August 2025 in the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil and received training in Kyiv. He said he was promised $30,000 in cryptocurrency if he killed Alekseyev. Another man, Viktor Vasin, was identified as an accomplice, and officials accused him of being linked to the late anti-corruption crusader, Aleksei Navalny. A third alleged accomplice reportedly fled to Ukraine. The FSB also accused Polish intelligence of involvement in recruiting Korba. Alekseyev is at least the fourth general to have been attacked, or killed, since the start of the all-out Russian invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago. Investigators have released few details as to the nature of the shooting plot. Officials have blamed Ukraine for past attacks. Lavrov pointedly blamed Kyiv for the Alekseyev shooting, without providing evidence. As the GRU's deputy commander, Alekseyev has overseen or been implicated in multiple, often audacious, sabotage or assassination operations around the world. Among other things, he has been accused of involvement in the near-fatal 2018 Novichok poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal in Britain and the cyberhack of US political parties two years earlier. He has also been linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg restaurateur who co-founded Russia's most notorious mercenary company, Wagner Group. Prigozhin died in a plane crash in August 2023, which Western intelligence officials later concluded was an assassination. On a freezing day in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, Yuriy Lyshenko is amply equipped for the cold in a bright red jacket designed for the winters of Antarctica. "Now this frost has hit, I need to put it on," he laughs. The 52-year-old is one of Ukraine's "military penguins," a small but growing contingent of men who have served on Ukraine's Antarctic research base and returned to their country to fight. Ukraine's links to the coldest continent date back to the beginning of the previous century when Anton Omelchenko, born in the Poltava region of today's Ukraine, survived the ill-fated 1910-1913 British expedition to the South Pole. During the Soviet period, Ukraine's Antonov aircraft company built specialized planes to support polar bases, and a factory in Kharkiv produced tracked vehicles for use in Antarctica. A large portion of the researchers working at Soviet polar bases were Ukrainians, but when the USSR collapsed, all 12 of the Soviet Union's Antarctic bases were claimed by Russia. Olena Marushevska, a spokeswoman for Ukraine's National Antarctic Scientific Center, says that through the early 1990s, "we had a lot of scientists who didn't have a place to work. But their specialization was Antarctic researcher." In 1996, the United Kingdom sold its Faraday research base, complete with its cozy British pub, to Ukraine for a single pound sterling. The deal came with the pledge that Ukrainian scientists would continue British studies, including a meteorological survey that had begun in 1947. Ukraine named the base after Volodymyr Vernadsky, the first president of the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences. On February 6, the base marked the 30th anniversary of its official handover. In late February 2022, Lyshenko was partway through the 15,000-kilometer journey to Vernadsky for his fourth deployment at the base when news broke that Russia had invaded. Lyshenko's role as a diesel electrician on Vernadsky was impossible to fill at short notice, so for nearly a year he could only follow the news as Russian forces pushed toward his native city. "It was very difficult," Lyshenko recalled. "I'm from Kharkiv, my family was in Kharkiv, and I couldn't influence the situation in any way." When his Antarctic expedition ended in the spring of 2023, Lyshenko returned to Ukraine and signed up to lead an infantry assault group. In October that year, he was severely wounded by a Russian shell and had his right leg amputated. While recuperating in a hospital in Kyiv in January 2024, the Antarctic veteran again narrowly escaped death when a Russian Kalibr cruise missile slammed into his hospital ward just 15 meters from his bed. The missile's half-ton warhead failed to explode. Lyshenko says that what he misses most from Antarctic life is the camaraderie. With a small crew of around a dozen people who endure deployments lasting 13 months in one of the loneliest landscapes on Earth, "the relationships between people there are beyond friendly: They become like family," Lyshenko says. "Because you work alongside these people 24/7 and you depend on each other, the friendships are such that you end up staying in touch all your life." Despite walking on a prosthesis, Lyshenko returned to Vernadsky in February 2025 for a brief deployment due to staffing shortfalls. "Unfortunately in terms of our personnel, we are not in a great situation because a lot of our guys are fighting," he said. Lyshenko has previously joked that his one-month deployment was as "an Antarctic pirate, with one leg and a penguin on my shoulder." In total there are 32 scientists and technical specialists who have served deployments on Vernadsky and also fought for Ukraine. One of those currently serving at the front is Mykhaylo, whose military call sign is the somewhat inevitable "Biolog" (biologist). The marine biologist was deployed to Vernadsky in 2021 and is currently stationed at the front lines as a drone specialist. "In a way, my work now [on the front lines] resembles scientific activity," he told RFE/RL. "I work with unmanned aerial vehicles. So we are doing something new and not understood by many. We go to remote, forgotten places and try to work in any weather." But there he says, the similarities end. "When you are on a combat mission, you cannot relax. Every sound can matter. Your every action can have tragic consequences." Mykhaylo's scientific career is now on ice, but he hopes to return to it soon. "I can't see my life without it," he says. "And, if my health allows, I want to go to Antarctica again." The Vernadsky base has come under criticism for its expense at a time when funds are needed for Ukraine's war effort. The country's National Antarctic Scientific Center has defended the costs of the Antarctic outpost, which is partly funded by foreign grants expressly forbidden to be used for military purposes. "Ukraine is one of several dozen countries that have year-round stations in the Antarctic and the right to vote in the Antarctic Treaty," the organization said in a May 2024 statement, adding that "Russia has several stations in the Antarctic, finances all of them, and some of them are being modernized even during the war. They will be very happy if Ukraine stops exploring the Antarctic and participating in the Treaty." Vietnam Airlines plans to launch the countrys first direct flight to the Netherlands in June with a flight between Hanoi and Amsterdam. It plans to operate three flights a week starting June 16 using the wide-body Airbus A350, it said in a statement. A traveller pushes a cart in front of an entrance at Amsterdam Schiphol airport on Jan. 7, 2026. Photo by AFP Vietnam Airlines has secured operating slots at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, the main international airport in the Netherlands and a major European gateway, despite its consistently constrained capacity. The Netherlands is Vietnams largest trading partner in Europe. In 2025 exports from Vietnam to the Dutch market exceeded US$11 billion. Investments by Dutch enterprises in Vietnam are worth around $16 billion. Around 27,000 Vietnamese people live and work in the Netherlands, creating steady travel demand. Two-way passenger traffic between Vietnam and the Netherlands numbers 122,000 a year. The new service will also add options for cargo transport, especially for high-value exports to Europe. With its launch, Vietnam Airlines will operate 12 direct routes to Europe, linking up with eight cities. US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Armenia on February 9 to kick off a four-day visit to the Caucasus in support of a US-brokered peace deal and to push a strategic transit corridor Washington sees as central to reshaping trade, energy, and influence in the region. Vance, the highest-ranking US official to visit Armenia from the Trump administration so far, landed in the capital, Yerevan, some six months after the country signed a US-brokered a deal with Azerbaijan aiming to end more than 40 years of conflict over the Karabakh region. Vance is meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian and other senior Armenian officials and will later head to Baku for talks with officials in the Azerbaijani capital on February 10-11, according to the White House. "I believe that we are at the point where we can actually have Armenia serve as an important instrument for economic development in this region of the world, which will both persist and maintain the peace agreement, but also could lead to a lot of prosperity for the people of Armenia, and importantly to me, to the people of the United States," Vance said as he headed into a meeting with Pashinian. "So we're going to keep on working on these things. This visit is just an important step." Vance's trip is heavily focused on developing economic relations with the two countries, which US officials have said will help build trust between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As part of the path to peace, a proposed 43-kilometer road-and-rail corridor, to be called the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), would run through Armenia and link Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave while opening a new East-West trade artery bypassing Russia and Iran. Armenia and Azerbaijan had been locked in conflict since the late 1980s over Nagorno-Karabakh, a region internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but long controlled by ethnic Armenian separatists. In September 2023, Azerbaijan retook full control of Karabakh following a military offensive. Last summer, leaders from the two countries agreed on a major deal -- brokered by Washington -- aimed at ending decades of conflict, including two full-scale wars. The agreement gives the United States leasing rights to develop the transit corridor, which would run through southern Armenian territory along the border with Iran. The corridor would eventually include a rail line, oil and gas lines, and fiberoptic lines, allowing for the movement of goods and eventually people. Protesters Call On Vance More than 20 Armenian human rights groups sent an open letter to Vance, urging the US vice president to help secure the release of Armenians currently detained in jails in Azerbaijan. Protesters Call On Vance To Secure Release Of Armenians Jailed In Azerbaijan by RFE/RL No media source currently available 0:00 0:00:47 0:00 A group of Karabakh refugees rallied outside Pashinian's official residence calling on Vance to press for the prisoners' release. Last week, an Azerbaijani military court handed down lengthy prison sentences to Armenian separatist leaders in a war crimes trial. Over 100 property agents are set to exit KW Singapore, another agency founded by PropertyLimBrothers co-founder Melvin Lim, after leadership changes tied to an alleged scandal involving Lim. Ismail Gafoor, co-founder and executive chairman of Singapores biggest real estate agency PropNex, said two senior property agents and their respective teams from KW Singapore have recently joined his firm. Additionally, over 38 salespersons from that agency have sought to make the move to PropNex since January, he told The Straits Times. The Business Times reported earlier that another senior agent at the firm, Rayne Chua, is set to move to ERA with her team, citing a desire to join an organization that "genuinely invests in people." Chua was said to be "instrumental" in helping KW Singapore secure projects from property developers. "ERA stood out as the right fit with values aligned to my own and a strong emphasis on structured training and robust tech platforms that support advisers at every stage," she said. KW Singapore is a franchise of US-based real estate agency Keller Williams. Founded last year by Lim, the boutique agency operates separately from PLB. Records from the Council for Estate Agencies public register show that it had 157 registered agents as of Thursday. The recent departures follow Lims decision to step back from his duties as the franchises operating principal after he earlier resigned as CEO of PLB in late January. Melvin Lim, co-founder of PropertyLimBrothers. Photo from the company's website Lims resignations came as an alleged extramarital affair between him and influencer Grayce Tan, who previously held executive positions at both firms, stirred up a media frenzy, according to EdgeProp Singapore. The controversy first emerged on Reddit, where users circulated a video that appeared to capture moaning from an office unit and later showed a pair resembling Lim and Tan leaving that unit together. Tan has since also resigned as PLBs vice president for strategy and KW Singapores director of growth. Lim is known for making home tour videos that often garner more than 20,000 views. He co-founded PLB in 2017 with Adrian Lim, whom he first met in 2004 while both were training as prison officers with the Singapore Prison Service. Tan, meanwhile, has more than 190,000 followers on Instagram, where she goes by @babygrayce. She has disabled the account following the allegations. She joined PLB in 2022 as an intern and moved through multiple positions before reaching the executive position last January. Industry watchers said the expected exits would substantially weaken KW Singapores sales force. Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia, another agency, said: "If you have 100 agents and more than 50 leave, it will definitely have an impact, whether its (on) the bottom line or psychologically." By Claudia Savage, Press Association Nearly 40 million (35 million) of funding for cross-community and cross-border projects has been announced. The 40 million support comes through the EU Peaceplus programme and is designed to help communities strengthen local relationships and build lasting connections. The programme is providing grants of up to 100,000 for each project and will allow groups to tailor activities to local needs while placing cross-community or cross-border engagement at the centre. Stormont communities minister Gordon Lyons said the programme will support smaller organisations, working at a local level, to make a direct contribution to their communities. Very often these groups face difficulties in accessing funds yet can make a real impact in the areas they serve, he said. The fund has the potential to support exciting and diverse activities across sports, the arts, heritage, and other themes offering a chance for everyone to get involved. I would encourage all eligible groups to take advantage of the funding opportunities provided through the Peaceplus Change Maker Fund. The minister for rural and community development and the gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, also welcomed the additional funding. He said: This important investment will strengthen our communities and leave a lasting legacy across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. The Change Maker Funding Programme is part of Peaceplus, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The total value of Peaceplus is 1.14 billion and is co-funded by the EU, the UK and Irish governments and the Northern Ireland Executive. Tom Tuite A Brazilian escort accused of having more than 700,000 in suspected brothel earnings in Dublin has been sent forward for trial. Bruna da Silveira, 25, of Reilly Avenue, Dublin 8, appeared at Dublin District Court and had a 450-page book of evidence served on her by gardai following an international prostitution investigation. She and three Brazilian men, facing separate court appearances, had been charged over allegations that 29 vulnerable young women were recruited in Brazil and coerced into sex work in Ireland. Judge Treasa Kelly noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that da Silveira face trial on indictment. She granted a return-for-trial order, sending da Silveira forward in custody to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where the case will be listed on March 26th next. Defence solicitor Michael French said that his client intended to move a bail application at her next appearance. The accused has yet to enter a plea and was warned to inform the prosecution within 14 days and provide the relevant details if she intends to use an alibi in her defence. Legal aid was granted, and an order for gardai to hand over copies of interview videos to the defence. She and the other defendants were arrested on September 3rd following an operation involving officers from Europol and the Brazilian Federal Police, who assisted the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB) in Dublin. A team of 60 gardai were involved in the multi-jurisdictional probe. They were refused bail almost two weeks after their arrests. Da Silveira and the three men, who lived in central Dublin, were charged with money laundering involving alleged crime proceeds in various amounts totalling 2.5 million from March 19th, 2024, to September 3rd last. She is charged with possessing 737,000 and father of one Vanuti Conrado Skierzynski, 35, who allegedly directed the group, had more than 1.6 million. He and 33-year-old Renato Gomes da Silva, both with the same address at Capel Street, and Gabriel do Nascimento, aged 26, who lived at Parnell Street, had additional charges for brothel-keeping, organised prostitution at various locations in the State, mainly in Dublin 1, Dublin 7, Dublin 4, and Dublin 8 area. An earlier bail hearing was told they face allegations related to 10 brothels. GNPSB Detective Sergeants Andrew Lambe, John Ryan, Alan Lynch, and Michael McGrath told a bail hearing that the four defendants were flight risks with no ties to this jurisdiction. The investigation witnesses stated that they believed they used the IrelandUK common travel area to bring the women into the Republic via Belfast to avoid immigration points. A WhatsApp group allegedly instructed the women on what to say and how to keep their rooms clean, ensuring that customers did not meet. Det Sgt Lynch alleged that many of the sex workers were coerced and transported to Ireland. Da Silveira was alleged to have profited from these activities and to have controlled finances, while the others had different roles. A large solar farm development on a 93 acre site in North Roscommon has been given the go-ahead by Roscommon County Council. Elgin Energy Services Limited, an Irish solar energy company based in Dublin, has been granted planning permission for the development at Meera and Tullyleague, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Roscommon. The solar farm will include photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames in rows; a 38kV ESB electricity substation; up to 23 single inverter stations; ducting and underground electrical cabling; pole mounted CCTV cameras; perimeter fencing, storage containers and the provision of some new internal access tracks along with the use of some existing agricultural tracks. The plans also include vehicular access via existing private roads that connect directly to the L50783, construction of two passing bays along the L50783 and all associated site development and landscaping works. Planning has been granted for a duration of 10 years and the solar farm will have an operational lifespan of 40 years, with an estimated export capacity of approximately 30MW of electricity. The farm will connect into the ESB Network via the existing 110kV Carrick-on-Shannon substation situated near Carrick-on-Shannon railway station. The project has been given the green light, subject to 31 conditions, which include stipulations on permitted noise levels and a glint and glare assessment to be carried out on an annual basis for a minimum of five years. The developer must also pay a development contribution of 180,000 to the council before works commence. Larry Richard Handy, 67, of Poplar, Montana, passed away at home surrounded by family after a hard fought 18-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Larry was born to Richard "Bud" and Colleen Handy and grew up in Flaxville, Montana, as the oldest of three children alongside his siblings, Casey and Chris. He took his role as the oldest very seriously, especially when it came to teaching Chris how to ride an antique push mower and showing Casey how to drink adult beverages out of a vehicle washer reservoir. He attended Flaxville High School and graduated with the Class of 1977. After high school, Larry moved to Glendive to attend Dawson Community College, where he gave DCC the good ol' college try. While officially enrolled, his true major was rodeo-and despite his best efforts, he graduated with a lifetime of stories and very few educational credits. Still, Larry would tell you it was time well spent. After his "college months," he returned to Flaxville and went to work, holding various jobs over the years, including working at Garberg Ranch and in the oil field. On October 6, 1990, Larry married Lauri Ralston and they began their life together full of love, laughter, and plenty of stories. Their first son, Wyatt, was born in 1992, followed by Ty in 1995. In 1997, their family was complete with the arrival of their daughter, Ashton-Larry's "little girl," who had him wrapped around her finger from day one. Larry spent many years farming and ranching south of Brockton. In 2009, Larry and Lauri moved upriver to their current home, where they built their dream house overlooking the Missouri River-a place Larry was incredibly proud of and deeply loved. He worked alongside his kids, especially when it came to making hay. One of Larry's favorite jobs was packing the silage pit every fall. He was constantly trying to convince his good friend Wilbur that they needed two-way radio so they could do more bullshitting and less packing. Larry loved to rope whether it was at brandings, hi-lines, jackpots, ranch rodeos and local rodeos. He built a roping arena at the home place, which the boys eventually turned into a feedlot pen-deemed more profitable than an arena. The feedlot still carries the arena name. Larry also loved watching rodeos, from Culbertson Frontier Days and the Wolf Point Stampede to the National Finals Rodeo and every event streamed on the Cowboy Channel. Each one was an opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones. As his kids got older Larry decided to purchase his first pontoon boat-and enduring many memorable problems and events with it, Larry decided the boating life wasn't for him and traded it for a hay rake. Then later in life after semi-retirement Larry developed a new love for being on Fort Peck Lake-just never actually in the water (or the sun). He treasured summers spent with family and friends boating and relaxing under the canopy at the lake. A natural storyteller, Larry's tales only grew bigger and more colorful the more times they were told. He had a way of making people laugh, feel welcome, and he was never short of words. Following his kids to every sporting event and supporting their involvement in 4-H and FFA was a priority for Larry. One of Larrys many talents was competing in the hog boarding competition at the Richland country fair every year. Even after his own children had graduated, he continued supporting nieces, nephews, and his special neighbor kids in all their activities. His love for young people truly shone through in his favorite role of all: "Papa Larry" to two little cowgirls. Larry is survived by his wife, Lauri Handy; his children, Wyatt (Cassie) Handy and his two beloved granddaughters, Maysa and Jaylee of Circle; Ty Handy of Wolf Point; and daughter Ashton (Ethan) Beery of Vida. He is also survived by his mother, Colleen Handy of Flaxville; his brother, Casey (Debbie) Handy of Flaxville; his sister, Chris (Bruce) Westgard of Westby; numerous nieces and nephews; and, of course, his beloved rope horses, Frog and Turbo. He is preceded in death by his father, Richard "Bud" Handy. While we mourn his loss, we find comfort knowing Larry was welcomed by dear friends and family-Raymond and Echo Garberg, Steve and Sharon Handy, and Carlie and Ty Anderson-already swapping stories, keeping everyone laughing, and entering ropings. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, with the family receiving friends from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Vida Country Club, 2983 MT13, Vida, MT, 59274. In Larry's memory and to honor his legacy, his family will brand his last set of calves on May 23rd at the family ranch, to celebrate a truly well lived life all family and friends are invited. Should friends desire, memorials in Larry's may be made to the Go-Getters Youth Rodeo. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: http://www.stevensonandsons.com. He stressed the necessity of seamless coordination between central agencies and various state governments to prevent Naxals from fleeing across state borders. File Photo. He asserted that residents in areas previously affected by Naxalism must be provided with equal opportunities for growth. Amit Shah Orders Inter-State Coordination to Wipe Out Naxalism by March 31 With the March 31, 2026, deadline for eliminating Naxalism just 53 days away, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called for heightened vigilance to ensure surviving insurgents do not escape into neighbouring states. During a high-level security review meeting on Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) held in Chhattisgarhs capital on Sunday, Shah said that the movement is currently on its last legs. Advertisement The Home Minister emphasised that the ongoing offensive must remain focused and unified. He stressed the necessity of seamless coordination between central agencies and various state governments to prevent Naxals from fleeing across state borders. According to Shah, the combined strategy of security-centric operations, disruption of financial networks, and the governments surrender policy has produced successful results. Beyond security measures, Shah highlighted the "remarkable progress" made in Chhattisgarh regarding both regional development and safety. He asserted that residents in areas previously affected by Naxalism must be provided with equal opportunities for growth. The meeting saw participation from Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, and IB Director Tapan Deka. Also in attendance were the Directors General of the CRPF, NIA, BSF, and ITBP, alongside Home Secretaries and police chiefs from Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra. Advertisement Source: The Tribune Opposition to move no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Meanwhile, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Rajesh Verma alleged that the Congress does not want the House to function. The Opposition will move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in the second part of the Budget Session, as it requires 20 days notice, news agency ANI reported, citing sources. According to the news agency, the reasons for the move include Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi not being allowed to speak in the House, women MPs being named by the Chair, certain Treasury Bench MPs always being given privilege in the House, and the way eight Opposition MPs were suspended for the entire session. Advertisement The suspended MPs include Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Kiran Kumar Reddy, Prashant Padole, S. Venkatesan, and Dean Kuriakose. The MPs have been holding protests at the Makar Dwar ever since they were suspended. Today as well, the leaders were seen raising slogans on the stairs of Parliament, holding posters that read, You can suspend us, but you cant silence us. #WATCH | Delhi | Suspended Opposition MPs with a placard that says "You can suspend us, but you can't silence us" protest at the Makar Dwar of the Parliament pic.twitter.com/GkoqwpwheU Advertisement February 9, 2026 Rahul Gandhi was repeatedly stopped from speaking in the Lok Sabha after he attempted to quote excerpts from the unpublished memoir of former Army Chief MM Naravane. The Lok Sabha has been adjourned repeatedly for several days, with no proceedings taking place. Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, had also raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor speaking to the media at the premises of the parliament today, said, "I came to speak on the Budget, but it looks like the government and the Lok Sabha Speaker are not interested in running the House. I will come again at 2 PM and try to speak in the House. The Finance Minister was not even sitting in the House, I think they knew that the House would be adjourned..." Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "I came to speak on the Budget, but it looks like the government and the Lok Sabha Speaker are not interested in running the House. I will come again at 2 PM and try to speak in the House. The Finance Minister was not even sitting pic.twitter.com/ZjW7x5Ddro ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, speaking to the media today, said, Whatever decision the senior leaders of the INDIA alliance take, all Opposition parties will stick to it." Congress MP Mallu Ravi, also speaking to ANI on the matter, said, Whenever we want to speak, the House is adjourned. Today, we also asked for permission for the LoP to speak, but it was not granted. Advertisement Meanwhile, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Rajesh Verma alleged that the Congress does not want the House to function. It is important to recognise that the Opposition is neither allowing the House to function nor making any positive contribution to the government's decision-making. Bringing this no-confidence motion proves that they only want to do politics..." Verma alleged. (For more news apart from Rahul Gandhi, Congress MPs Hold Protest After Suspension of 8 MPs, Against IndiaUS Trade Deal," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) Unnao rape case: SC refuses immediate relief to Sengar; asks Delhi High Court to hear plea We deem it a fit case to request the High Court to hear the appeal and decide the same but not later than three months, the Court said. The Supreme Court of India on Monday refused immediate relief to rape convict and former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, ANI reported. However, the top court requested the Delhi High Court to hear Sengars plea seeking suspension of sentence and bail in the custodial-death case of the rape victims father. Advertisement According to the news agency, a bench led by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, asked the Delhi High Court to complete the hearing of Sengars plea within three months. We deem it a fit case to request the High Court to hear the appeal and decide the same but not later than three months, the Court is quoted as saying. It added that during the hearing earlier today, the CJI slammed Advocate Mehmood Pracha, counsel for the rape victim, for indulging in a media trial in connection with the ongoing Unnao rape case matter. Advertisement Also read: I want death sentence, demands mother of the Unnao rape survivor The CJI issued a strong warning to the lawyer, stating that if he further indulges in a media trial, his licence may be suspended, while Pracha was present in the courtroom. This media trial, which is happening, is not proper. Mr Pracha, this media trial by you outside the court, don't think I don't know. Your license was saved by me. I saved it, thinking you would stay true to the profession. If we find you indulging in this kind of drama outside the court.. we will not tolerate it. You are conducting a parallel trial outside! Take our warning in right earnest. As a Chief Justice of India, I will not tolerate this. We are only warning you. We have conveyed our message. I hope people will follow it the CJI is quoted as saying. Advertisement Also read:; Unnao rape case: Supreme Court stays Delhi HC order suspending life sentence of Kuldeep Sengar (For more news apart from BREAKING: Bomb threat at the Punjab and Haryana High Court; search operation underway," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) BREAKING: Bomb threat at the Punjab and Haryana High Court; search operation underway The entire court complex is being evacuated. All lawyers and staff members are present outside the court gates. Chandigarh: Panic has gripped the Punjab and Haryana High Court after information about a bomb being present was received on Monday. The entire court complex is being evacuated. All lawyers and staff members are present outside the court gates. Advertisement Police and bomb disposal squads are carrying out a thorough search inside. The entire area has been sealed, and the search operation is being conducted at a rapid pace. (For more news apart from BREAKING: Bomb threat at the Punjab and Haryana High Court; search operation underway," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) South Korean official expelled from party after comments about 'importing' Vietnamese women The main conference room of the South Korean National Assembly building. Photo by Dmthoth A South Korean county head has been expelled from the ruling party after controversial remarks suggesting the country should "import unmarried women" from Vietnam and Sri Lanka to help rural men marry and counter population decline. Kim Hee-soo, the head of Jindo County in South Jeolla Province, made the comments during a live-streamed town hall meeting last week on a proposed administrative merger between Gwangju and South Jeolla, Korea Times reported. He used a Korean term referring to young or unmarried women while discussing ways to address depopulation in rural areas. The remarks quickly triggered backlash at home and abroad, sparking condemnation from diplomats, women's groups and migrant communities. On Feb. 9, the ruling Democratic Party of Korea expelled Kim, with party spokesperson Park Soo-hyun saying the decision by the partys Supreme Council was unanimous due to the derogatory nature of the remarks. Last week, the Embassy of Vietnam in South Korea sent protest letters to South Jeolla Province and Jindo County, calling the language offensive and dehumanizing. "The remarks have already caused outrage and offense within the Vietnamese community in Korea and continue to generate controversy and concern," the embassy said in a statement, urging authorities to take the matter seriously, apologize and take corrective action over the phrase "importing women from Vietnam." The statement added that Vietnamese residents in South Jeolla Province had long viewed the region as a safe and trustworthy place to build their lives, stressing that Vietnam and South Korea have spent more than three decades developing ties based on friendship, cooperation and equality. "In that context, respect for women's dignity and honor must remain the top priority," it said, adding that acknowledging wrongdoing and taking concrete action would help rebuild trust and strengthen the Vietnam-Korea comprehensive strategic partnership. In South Korea, about 100 women's rights, migrant and civic groups also condemned Kim's remarks in a joint statement, saying they treated immigrant women not as individuals with agency but as tools to address depopulation through marriage and childbirth. The groups said the comments ignored the harsh realities faced by migrant women, citing data from the Jeonnam Migrant Women's Counseling Center showing a steady rise in violence-related consultations in the province: from 2,960 cases in 2023 to 4,064 in 2024 and 4,686 in 2025. According to South Koreas Ministry of Justice, Vietnamese women made up about 25% of the countrys 146,000 marriage-visa holders in 2024. Following the backlash, Kim and South Jeolla Province both issued public apologies. Kim said he had used "inappropriate language" while trying to emphasize the need for policy responses to depopulation and expressed regret for causing "misunderstanding and discomfort." South Jeolla Province also apologized to Vietnam and the Vietnamese people, saying it would strengthen human rights and gender-sensitivity training to prevent similar incidents. "Expressions such as import undermine human dignity and objectify women, and can never be justified," the province said. "They run counter to the values South Jeolla has pursued: respect for human rights, gender equality and multicultural inclusion." Gangster Te Vaar': Police arrest five youths, recover drugs, arms and ammunition In a focused, intelligence-led operation, police recovered a car, two .32 bore pistols, and four live cartridges from their possession. Punjab Police News: Dismantling a cross-border arms and narcotics smuggling module under the Gangster Te Vaar campaign, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police have arrested five individuals, all in their early 20s, and recovered illegal firearms, heroin and drug proceeds. The arrested accused have been identified as Simranjeet Singh alias Mannu (24), Molakdeep Singh (23), Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi (20), Sukhraj Singh alias Joga (24), and Sajan Singh alias Gursajan alias Ladda (22). Advertisement In a focused, intelligence-led operation, police recovered a car, two .32 bore pistols, and four live cartridges from their possession. During interrogation, further recoveries were made, leading to the seizure of four more pistolstwo 9mm Glock pistols made in Austria, one Zigana pistol made in Turkey, and one .30 bore pistolalong with six live cartridges, 115 grams of heroin, and drug money amounting to Rs 11.90 lakh. Police suspect the accused were involved in organised illegal arms and narcotics activities. During the investigation, Simranjeet Singh alias Mannu emerged as a repeat offender and was previously involved in cases under the NDPS Act, with recoveries of heroin, police said. Advertisement Accused Molakdeep Singh, police said, has a serious criminal background and was earlier apprehended in narcotics cases involving the recovery of commercial quantities of heroin, indicating his active role in organised drug trafficking. Similarly, accused Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi was earlier arrested in an NDPS Act case involving the recovery of a commercial quantity of heroin, reflecting his continued involvement in the illegal narcotics trade. Police stated that all five accused are residents of villages located near the international border. Molakdeep Singh is from village Ranike, while the remaining four are from Roda Wala Kalan. Advertisement The police team involved in the arrests and recoveries included Ravinderpal Singh, DCP (Detective); Jagbinder Singh, ADCP (Detective); Harminder Singh Sandhu, ACP (Detective); and Inspector Amandeep Singh, In-charge, Anti-Narcotics Operations Cell. (For more news apart from Gangster Te Vaar: Police arrest five youths, recover drugs, arms and ammunition," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) Sahil left for Russia on July 25 after quitting his clerk's job with a transport company, where he earned a salary of Rs 15,000 per month. (Image courtesy: The tribune) Sahil left for Russia on July 25 after quitting his clerk's job with a transport company, where he earned a salary of Rs 15,000 per month. Amritsar News: A family in Punjabs Amritsar district is devastated after being unable to communicate for months with 35-year-old Sahil Sekhri, a qualified chef who was allegedly duped into joining the Russian Army. According to a report by The Tribune, Sahils mother, Anita Sekhri (60), said she last spoke to her son on September 20. During their final conversation, Sahil told her that his three-month-long training had been cut short to just 15 days. He feared he would be deployed on the war front, despite being promised a helpers job. Advertisement Anita Sekhri, a widow, said Sahil informed her that he received Rs 10 lakh instead of the promised Rs 15 lakh upon joining the army. He also told her that his personal phone had been confiscated during training. According to the report, Sahil secretly procured an alternative mobile phone and SIM card after paying four times their actual cost. He also shared the phone numbers of two of his roommates with his mother. The mother has alleged that her son fell victim to a human trafficking racket. She claimed that a travel agent pocketed Rs 5 lakh and lured Sahil with the promise of a monthly salary of Rs 2 lakh. She added that despite assurances of a work visa, the agent provided no assistance after meeting Sahil at Moscow airport. Advertisement Sahil left for Russia on July 25 after quitting his clerks job with a transport company, where he earned a salary of Rs 15,000 per month. In 2016, Sahil went to Cyprus to study culinary arts and stayed there for five years, working as a chef. During that time, he sent Rs 25,000 per month to his family. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to return to India in 2021. Unable to get more than Rs 12,000 salary as a chef, he joined a private transport company and served there for the next four years, the report said. Advertisement (For more news apart from Punjab: 35-year-old Amritsar chef duped into joining Russian Army, no communication since last September," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) Kinnow cultivation is the mainstay of Punjab's horticulture, accounting for nearly 47 per cent of the state's total fruit area and producing 1.32 million tonnes annually. File Photo. Developed by Punjab Agricultural University, PAU Kinnow-1 contains an average of just 3.4 seeds per fruit. Punjabs 'Orange Gold' Goes Seedless: A Strategic Roadmap for Global Premium Markets Advertisement Punjab is set to strengthen its position as Indias premier kinnow producer by transitioning toward low-seeded and near-seedless varieties. This strategic shift, led by the release of PAU Kinnow-1, aims to significantly enhance the state's fruit processing capabilities and global export potential. Developed by Punjab Agricultural University, PAU Kinnow-1 contains an average of just 3.4 seeds per fruit, addressing the limitations of traditional varieties that have higher seed counts. Kinnow cultivation is the mainstay of Punjabs horticulture, accounting for nearly 47 per cent of the states total fruit area and producing 1.32 million tonnes annually. From just 500 hectares in 1970, cultivation has expanded to approximately 49,000 hectares in 2023-24. According to Dr HS Rattanpal, Head of Fruit Science at PAU, the new strain improves juice yield and marketability. To support this growth, the state has already established over 40 waxing plants, which extend shelf life for international trade. Currently, Punjab exports kinnow to Russia, the Middle East, Nepal, and Bangladesh, with new markets emerging in Sri Lanka and Thailand. Advertisement Experts believe that by leveraging post-harvest technologies and expanding processing capacity, Punjab can transform kinnow cultivation into a robust agro-industry. This transition is expected to stabilise farmer incomes and solidify the state's role as a global hub for premium mandarins. Source: The Tribune Tarn Taran shocker: First-year law college student shoots female classmate and himself As per reports citing the victim's family, Prince was in one-sided love with her, while she was engaged to someone else. In a shocking incident from Tarn Taran district of Punjab, a first-year law college student allegedly shot dead a female classmate and later shot himself with the same weapon on Monday (9 February 2026). Deputy Superintendent of Police Jagbir Singh said, The two students had taken admission at the same time. Prince Raj, aged 19, shot dead Sandeep Kaur inside the classroom and then killed himself. We are investigating the matter. Advertisement In purported visuals from the incident, a person believed to be Prince can be seen seated on the bench in front of the victim, while she was standing with another girl. VIDEO | Punjab: A first-year law college student in Tarn Taran district allegedly fatally shot dead a fellow student and later on shot himself with the same weapon. (Source: Third Party) (Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/Pwmdf1lo1a Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 9, 2026 Within seconds, Prince gets up, turns back, shoots the girl at point-blank range, and immediately shoots himself, collapsing on the floor as other students panic. Advertisement As per reports citing the victims family, Prince was in one-sided love with her, while she was engaged to someone else. He reportedly harassed the victim and had visited her house two to three times earlier. Prince Raj is said to be the son of an Army personnel, and it is suspected that the weapon used in the tragic incident belonged to his father (For more news apart from Tarn Taran shocker: First-year law college student shoots female classmate and himself," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.) Christian fellowship and survival in prison In 1948, after the communist regime came to power, it abolished and banned the Greek Catholic Church in order to sever the Romanians' ties with the Vatican and the Western world History Show Steliu Lambru, 09.02.2026, 11:27 The Romanian Church United with Rome, or the Greek Catholic Church, was established in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, during Austrias efforts to counteract the proselytism of the Reformation. In exchange for recognition, new followers received political, educational, and religious rights. In the territories inhabited by Romanians, the Greek Catholic Church played an essential role in shaping national consciousness and produced many important intellectuals and politicians. In 1948, after the communist regime came to power, it abolished and banned the Greek Catholic Church in order to sever the Romanians ties with the Vatican and the Western world. Many Greek Catholic politicians and prelates were thrown into prisons, where they met with Orthodox and other Church colleagues and formed a trans-confessional solidarity. Despite the persecution, people did not lose heart and continued to keep their faith. Greek Catholic priest Nicolae Lupea was a political prisoner in communist prisons. In 2001, he told the Oral History Center of Radio Romania that, despite the extreme living conditions in prisons, priests managed to celebrate divine service. On Sundays, in particular, Holy Mass was celebrated by the priests who were there in the prisons. They used wine that the prisoners obtained from various civilians who worked at the same place as the prisoners. And for bread, we used the black bread that the prison gave us. In the history of Romanian intellectuals under communism, one particularly noteworthy episode involves literary critic Nicolae Steinhardt. A Jew, he was imprisoned on charges of being close to a group of anti-communist intellectuals. And in that inhuman environment, he decided to convert to Christianity. Nicolae Lupea: I spent some time locked up with him, with Nicolae Steinhardt. I also spent time with Alexandru Paleologu, Dr. Al-George, several other personalities, and many other prisoners in a room in Jilava. There was also a priest there, a guy a little younger than me, named Mina Dobzeu, a monk from Bessarabia, who had been sentenced to seven years. Steinhardt was Jewish, around 60 years old, as far as I could tell, because he was gray-haired and bald. At one point, he got in touch with the Orthodox priest, but he also got in touch with me and told me he wanted to be baptized. Steinhardt made the big decision of his life under the influence of his friends. On the morning of his baptism, he came to my bedside as soon as we got up and told me that he did not agree with the action against the Greek Catholic Church or with the Orthodox Churchs collaboration with the Securitate in banning our Church, the Greek Catholic Church. But he insisted on being baptized by Father Mina because he was Orthodox and Alecu, Alexandru Paleologu, was his friend. He wanted to be baptized in the Orthodox faith because, for better or worse, the Orthodox Church was not banned. If I wanted to practice the Greek Catholic faith, I would have to come here with you, to be part of a banned religion. And I said to him then: All right, Mr. Steinhardt. But the communion between prisoners went beyond denominational differences. And Steinhardts baptism was a joint one. And then he went and told the Orthodox priest Mina Dobzeu about the conversation we had had. Dobzeu came to me, we took a jug of water together, and we both blessed that water. Each of us recited a formula that we knew by heart from the services we had celebrated before when blessing water. We knew them because we had no books to read. I remember that I used two formulas. I said: But, Lord, Lover of mankind, come with the coming of Your Holy Spirit and bless this water! And give it the gift of redemption and the blessing of the Jordan, that it may be for your servant Nicholas for the forgiveness of sins, for the healing of soul and body. And another formula was for the blessing of water. I made the sign of the cross in the water with my fingers and said: Such a ceremony had to remain secret. Nicolae Lupea: And now we thought about how to baptize him? It was a transition room and it was overcrowded. We decided that Steinhardt should stay in the room and not go out for fresh air in the morning. They took us out to fetch water with that big bucket, to take the nights feces to the courtyard, to an outhouse. And we decided this: Father Mina and I would come first, and he would go to the jug in which we had blessed the water. I would stand behind him to hide him from the others when he was baptized. He came quickly, Father Mina took the jug and poured a few drops of water on him three times and baptized him. The baptism of Nicolae Steinhardt in prison by a Greek Catholic priest and an Orthodox priest is a shared testimony of faith and suffering. It was also a shared testimony of what makes us all human. (MI) From natural gas to critical minerals At a ministerial meeting on rare minerals in Washington, Foreign Minister Oana Toiu positioned Romania as a key transatlantic partner in economic security. Ministrul roman al afacerilor externe, Oana Toiu, a participat la reuniunea ministeriala privind mineralele rare de la Washington Mihai Pelin, 09.02.2026, 13:50 US President Donald Trump is firmly committed to working with international partners, including Romania, to secure the supply of essential minerals needed to sustain defense, energy and technology sectors. That was the message from the US Embassy in Bucharest following a recent critical minerals meeting in Washington, hosted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice-President J.D. Vance. Romania is taking on strategic responsibility as the largest producer of natural gas in the European Union, Foreign Minister Oana Toiu said in Washington, where she led Romanias delegation. She added that Romania has a mission to increase production to drive down prices and help shield the region from the use of energy as a tool for political blackmail. Minister Toiu also argued for strengthening EU-US relations in the areas of investment, processing and shared market tools. The ministerial meeting in Washington and the preceding talks had the clear objective of bolstering economic security, creating resilient supply chains for rare minerals, and forging global partnerships to protect industries and jobs for the future. At a time when Romanias defense industry, tech sector and energy capabilities are in need of resources from the global supply chain, participation in international negotiations becomes key. The United States seeks to build a coalition of allies to diversify sources of rare earth metals, avoiding dependence on China, currently the dominant power in their extraction and processing, upon which a range of cutting-edge technologies rely. President Donald Trump reiterated the need for rare earth metals, including in the context of claims over the Danish territory of Greenland. On the sidelines of her participation in the first critical minerals meeting, Oana Toiu was also invited to attend the public event titled Davos to the Arctic: Forging Transatlantic Unity A Romanian View, hosted by the American think tank the Hudson Institute. Here, she explained how Romanias economic success, its economy having grown tenfold in a single generation, now aligns with the need for resilience across the entire transatlantic bloc. Our relationship with the United States spans over 120 years, starting with the first American investors in the Romanian energy sector. Today, we are ready to take this partnership to the next level by collaborating in high-tech fields and on critical minerals, which are instrumental for the future of both nations, Oana Toiu said in her address. The Hudson Institute is a think tank that provides analysis and solutions shaping foreign and security policies in Washington. (VP) Will Romania participate in the Board of Peace? Bucharest is deciding whether or not to accept the invitation received by Romanian President Nicusor Dan to participate in the first meeting of the Peace Council Nicusor Dan (photo: presidency.ro) Sorin Iordan, 09.02.2026, 14:00 Romanian President Nicusor Dan has been invited to attend the first meeting of the Board of Peace, a structure organized and promoted by US President Donald Trump. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a close ally of the American leader, has already announced his attendance at the meeting, which will take place in Washington on February 19. Hungary is, in fact, one of the countries that has already joined the Board chaired by the US. Romania has officially received an invitation to join countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Qatar. Bucharest has announced that, after receiving the invitation, it has initiated discussions with the US administration to clarify the compatibility of the Boards Charter with the international commitments already undertaken by the Romanian state. The decision on participation will be made following discussions with the US partners on the format of the meeting for countries such as Romania, which are not currently members of the Board but wish to join under the terms of a revised Charter, explained Nicusor Dan. However, the decision is not only related to technical aspects, but also to financial ones, given that permanent membership in the Board of Peace comes with a substantial price tag of 1 billion USD. Moreover, the United States position on various aspects of foreign and security policy, such as minimizing the role played by NATO member states during the war in Afghanistan, its reluctance to unequivocally support Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, and Washingtons territorial claims on Greenland, a territory belonging to Denmark, have led the traditional allies of the US not to accept the invitation. Thus, the United Kingdom announced that it would not join yet, due to concerns about Russias possible participation, and France said it did not intend to join at this stage, warning that this Board could be given powers that would undermine existing United Nations mechanisms. They were joined by Norway, Sweden, and, more recently, New Zealand, which argued that the initiative conflicts with international law and established multilateral frameworks. In recent days, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has also ruled out his countrys participation due to constitutional issues. Specifically, he said that the Italian Constitution does not allow the country to join an organization led by a single leader. And the Board of Peace will be chaired by Donald Trump himself, who has executive power. The Board of Peace was initially conceived for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, but at its launch on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, the US president said that the international body would also manage other global conflicts. It is precisely this approach that has led major countries to refuse to participate, fearing that the structure is nothing more than a private club and an attempt by the US president to replace the UN, which he has criticized since his first term in office. (MI) Centrica Plc (CNA.L) Monday said that it has completed the disposal of several non-core energy solutions businesses. Its energy solutions operations in Italy and the Netherlands have been sold to Joulz, a portfolio company of 3i Infrastructure, while the Hungarian has been divested through a management buyout, the company added. Additionally, the integrated energy and services company said that it has finalized the sale of Panoramic Power and the total proceeds from these transactions is more than 80 million euros. Commenting on the developments, Chris O'Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica, said, "These transactions reflect a strategic decision to focus our resources on Centrica Business's core growth and innovation priorities which will better position the business to pursue new opportunities and accelerate growth in key ." On the LSE, CNA.L is currently up 1.03 percent on Monday's trading at 193.57 pence. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News 'Want to go home': Indonesian crew abandoned off Africa demand wages Abandoned for months on their fishing boat off West Africa, Indonesian sailor Surono and his shipmates face a dilemma: return home without almost a year's wages or stay on the docked vessel. He is among a growing number of migrant workers abandoned by shipowners, who flout their obligations and desert crews without paying the salaries owed. Indonesian nationals Surono (R), Rizal Harun (2nd R) and Wahyudin (L), and Angolan nationals Jose Viti (3rd L) and Pedro (2nd L), crew members of the tuna longliner fishing vessel Novo Ruivo who sails under a Portuguese flag, pose for a picture at the Porto Grande port in Mindelo on Feb. 5, 2026. Photo by AFP "My family cries because I can't get any money. My children and wife need money to eat," Surono, 47, who like many Indonesians goes by one name, told AFP from the abandoned ship in Cape Verde. "We want to go home, but if we go home without money, then what? We've been working ourselves to the bone out at sea. How can we just be abandoned like that?" The engine technician flew from Indonesia to Namibia in March 2025 to work onboard the Portuguese-flagged Novo Ruivo, a tuna longliner fishing boat. But when they docked at Mindelo in Cape Verde in September to offload their catch, the owner left with the crew's passports and without paying their wages. Surono said his salary was $1,200 a month and that with the five months stranded in Mindelo's Porto Grande, he is now owed $13,200. The father-of-three admitted that his family in Tegal, Central Java, has struggled without this income, more than eight times the minimum wage there. "This is really hard. To survive, I have to go into debt," his wife, Kiki Andriani, 38, told AFP through tears. "I want my husband to come home, but if he does without his salary, then a whole year's work would be for nothing." Thousands stranded A ship is deemed abandoned by the International Labor Organization (ILO) under certain criteria, including when a shipowner does not cover the crew's repatriation costs or cuts ties with them and fails to pay wages for at least two months. While fishing boats make up only a fraction of abandonment cases, overall figures for the shipping industry paint a worrying picture. Reported cases reached record levels in 2025, with around 6,200 seafarers left stranded across 410 ships, according to figures released by the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) last month. Surono contacted the ITF, who reported the Novo Ruivo abandoned to authorities and helped contact the Indonesian embassy in Dakar, Senegal. "We offered them repatriation from day one, but they refused because they are afraid of not getting the money," said Gonzalo Galan, the ITF inspector handling the case. The crew's last resort is getting a court order to seize and sell the boat to pay off the owner's debts, an option ITF is exploring with its legal team. 'Plenty of fish' The designated shipowner, Spaniard Javier Martinez of the Somar Produtos do Mar company, told AFP he does not have the money but is trying to solve the problem. "They have not been abandoned. They have everything on the boat -- electricity, fresh water and food," he said. "You think I'm not in more of a hurry than them to solve this? Having the boat parked there is costing me a lot of money." Martinez said he sends each of the crew a stipend of around 50 euros (US$60) every few weeks, which Surono said pays for phone credit, some snacks and drinks. Workers in the fishing industry are covered by the ILO's work in fishing convention 188. But the treaty, which aims to ensure a minimum standard is applied across the sector, is very weak and poorly implemented, Galan said. "It basically just says that a fisher must have an employment contract in writing and that salaries should be paid in intervals, but does not specify the time frame," he said. The crew of six Indonesians and six Angolans have mainly been living off old supplies of rice and frozen food, according to Surono, who said he spends "almost all day, every day on the boat". "I have a fiancee waiting for me at home in Cirebon (West Java). We planned to get married soon," said crewmate Wahyudin, 36, who has also not been paid. "If we didn't get any fish, I would've understood, but we got plenty of fish." The recruitment agency in Indonesia that hired Surono agreed last week to front half his salary, but he is unlikely to see another penny should he leave, Galan said. "The kids don't want to go to school because they're embarrassed about being behind on tuition. Even the neighborhood shop won't trust us anymore," said Surono. "I want my rights. We've worked, and we're asking for our wages because we have families." Pulse Biosciences, Inc. (PLSE) presented late-breaking data from its first-in-human feasibility study of the nPulse Cardiac Catheter System, showing high procedural success rates and efficient workflow in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). The findings were unveiled at the 31st Annual AF Symposium 2026 in Boston. Atrial fibrillation is commonly treated through pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), a procedure that can be time-consuming and technically demanding. Pulse Biosciences' nPulse system uses Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (nsPFA) energy, a non-thermal ablation method designed to selectively clear cardiac cells while sparing surrounding tissue. In the feasibility study, procedural success reached 100% at six months (75/75 evaluable patients) and 96% at 12 months (45/47). The system demonstrated rapid procedure times, with an average of 16.1 applications per procedure, total procedure time of 65 minutes, and fluoroscopy time of 9.8 minutes. Left atrial dwell time averaged 21 minutes. Only 1.3% (2/150) of subjects experienced a serious adverse event related to the primary safety endpoint. Investigators highlighted the system's efficiency and workflow advantages. Dr. Vivek Reddy, Director of Cardiac Arrhythmia Services at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital, noted that the catheter's conformable design, differentiated energy delivery, and zero-rotation workflow produced "highly efficient and effective results" compared to other AF feasibility studies. The ongoing study has treated 165 patients across nine European centres, with remapping performed at approximately three months and rhythm control assessments at six and twelve months. The data support the system's potential to deliver precise and durable PVI using nsPFA energy. Commenting on the results, CEO Paul LaViolette said the dataset "marks an important milestone" and validates the safety, effectiveness, lesion quality, and speed benefits of the nPulse system. Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Kenigsberg added that the results exceed expectations in a field where recurrence rates of 20-25% are common, noting the company is preparing to treat additional patients in Europe and the U.S. as it initiates its pivotal IDE study. PLSE has traded between $12.56 and $22.75 over the past year. The stock closed Friday's trading at $20.75, up 51.57%. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News MannKind Corporation (MNKD) has enrolled the first patient in INHALE-1ST, a pediatric clinical study evaluating the early initiation of Afrezza (insulin human) Inhalation Powder in youth newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The study is designed to assess the safety, efficacy, and treatment experience of starting Afrezza shortly after diagnosis in patients ages 10 to under 18 years. Investigators will evaluate clinical outcomes as well as participant and caregiver satisfaction when Afrezza is used for mealtime glucose control alongside once-daily injectable basal insulin. The first patient was enrolled at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes in Aurora, Colorado, one of roughly 10 clinical sites expected to participate across the United States. The trial aims to enroll approximately 100 patients. MannKind highlighted the potential benefit of reducing the burden of multiple daily injections for newly diagnosed youth. The company noted that Afrezza, already supported by nearly a decade of adult safety and real-world experience, may offer a needle-free alternative during the early adjustment period following diagnosis. INHALE-1ST is a single-arm, multi-center study with a 13-week main phase, followed by an optional extension phase of up to 26 weeks for participants who continue using Afrezza with basal insulin. The primary endpoint is the percentage of CGM-monitored participants who achieve at least 70% time-in-range of 70-180 mg/dL during the 14 days before the 13-week visit. The FDA is currently reviewing a supplemental Biologics License Application for Afrezza in children and adolescents with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The agency's decision is expected by May 29, 2026. If approved, Afrezza would become the first needle-free insulin option for pediatric patients in more than a century of insulin therapy. Afrezza generated $18.5 million in Q3 2025, up from $15.0 million in the prior-year quarter, representing a 23% increase, all of which reflects adult commercial use. MNKD has traded between $3.38 and $6.51 over the past year. The stock closed Friday (February 6, 2026) trading at $5.78, up 4.90%. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Hyundais next-generation Creta has been spied once again, and this latest set of images offers the clearest look yet at both its exterior hardware and interior upgrades. The third-generation Creta is still under heavy camouflage, but these fresh spy shots reveal several significant changes that underline just how far Hyundai plans to push its best-selling midsize SUV. Bigger Wheels, Stronger Road Presence One of the standout details in the latest 2027 Hyundai Creta spy shots is the new set of 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, wrapped in 235/45 section tyres. This is a noticeable step up from the current model and suggests Hyundai is aiming for a more premium, upmarket stance. The larger wheels also hint at a slightly wider track and a more planted road presence, reinforcing earlier sightings that pointed to a more upright and squared-off silhouette. Despite the camouflage, proportions suggest the 2027 Hyundai Creta will be marginally longer and visually bulkier than the current generation, helping it better differentiate itself from compact SUVs while holding its ground against newer rivals in the segment. Boss Mode Confirmed for the Rear Seat Inside the cabin, the biggest talking point is the electrically adjustable front passenger seat with controls accessible for rear occupants. This confirms the presence of a boss mode-style feature, allowing rear-seat passengers to slide the front seat forward or recline it to free up more legroom. This is a feature usually seen in higher segments and underlines Hyundais intent to push rear-seat comfort as a key selling point. The seats themselves appear to be finished in black leatherette upholstery, likely reserved for higher variants. The overall cabin layout looks more premium, with cleaner surfacing and a more horizontal design theme, in line with Hyundais newer global models. More Comfort and Practicality at the Rear 2027 Hyundai Creta spy shots also reveal a more comfortable second row. All three rear passengers appear to get adjustable headrests, a welcome upgrade for safety and comfort. Rear AC vents are retained, and the overall sense of space looks improved, suggesting either a longer wheelbase or smarter packaging. Other details visible include neatly integrated seat controls, improved door trims and a generally more mature interior design compared to the current model. What Else to Expect While the dashboard remains hidden, earlier reports and Hyundais recent launches suggest the new Creta could feature: Larger infotainment and digital driver displays An upgraded ADAS suite Improved connected car technology Higher-grade materials across touchpoints Under the hood, the next-gen Creta is expected to retain familiar 1.5-litre petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines initially, paired with manual and automatic gearboxes. However, a strong hybrid option is widely expected later in the lifecycle, aligning with Hyundais broader hybrid strategy for India. Launch Timeline Hyundai had earlier indicated a 2027 launch window, but with testing intensifying and interiors now being revealed, the debut could be brought forward to late 2026, possibly around the festive season. Given the Cretas importance to Hyundai in India, the next generation is shaping up to be a major leap rather than a routine update. Bajaj Auto has expanded its electric three-wheeler portfolio with the launch of the WEGO P9018, which the company claims is the largest electric three-wheeler in India and offers the longest certified range in the segment. The new model delivers a claimed range of 296 km on a single charge, supported by a 17.7 kWh battery pack. The Bajaj WEGO P9018 is priced at Rs 4,41,247 (ex-showroom, pan-India) and is aimed at passenger and cargo operators looking for higher daily running capability across urban, semi-urban and rural markets. Longest Range Electric Three-Wheeler Yet At the heart of the WEGO P9018 is a 17.7 kWh battery, the largest currently offered on an electric three-wheeler in India. Bajaj says the extended range has been achieved through a combination of battery size, a new Battery Management System (BMS), regenerative braking, and optimised vehicle design. With a certified range of 296 km, the WEGO P9018 is positioned for operators covering medium to long intra-city and inter-city routes, where frequent charging downtime can impact earnings. Built for High Load and Tough Conditions The new electric three-wheeler is designed to carry higher passenger and luggage loads, addressing use cases where conventional electric autos fall short on capacity and endurance. Bajaj claims this could help operators improve daily utilisation and earning potential. Mechanical highlights include: Two-speed transmission 36% gradability, allowing it to handle inclines even under load 5-year warranty, aimed at improving ownership confidence for fleet and individual buyers Focus on Rail-to-Road and Last-Mile Mobility WEGO is Bajaj Autos passenger-carrier-focused electric three-wheeler brand, positioned as a continuation of the companys long-standing presence in Indias last-mile mobility segment. The P9018 sits at the top of the WEGO range, targeting customers who need a combination of long range, durability and carrying capacity, rather than just short-distance urban commuting. What It Means for the Segment With a nearly 300 km claimed range, the WEGO P9018 significantly raises the benchmark for electric three-wheelers in India. As operating economics and range anxiety remain key barriers to EV adoption among commercial operators, products like the P9018 indicate a clear shift towards higher-capacity, long-distance electric mobility solutions. The launch also reflects Bajaj Autos strategy to defend and grow its leadership in the three-wheeler segment as electrification gathers pace, particularly in markets where charging infrastructure remains inconsistent. Honda Cars India Ltd (HCIL) is on the verge of a major product overhaul in the country. Currently, the company offers three vehicles Amaze Sub 4m Sedan at the lower end of its lineup, City C+ Sedan and the Elevate 4.2m to 4.4m SUV (C Segment). For the month of February 2026, these vehicles have been bestowed with benefits of up to Rs 1.97 lakh. These include cash discounts, exchange or scrappage benefits and a loyalty bonus. These benefits vary based on dealership, city and stock availability and buyers are advised to visit their nearest dealerships for precise numbers. Lets take a closer look. Honda Cars Discounts Feb 2026 Within Hondas portfolio, Amaze is at the lower end of the price ladder, acting as the entry-point into Hondas portfolio in the country. Honda continues to sell 2nd Gen Amaze in India even though 3rd Gen Honda Amaze was launched at the fag end of 2024. 2nd Gen model starts from Rs 6.98 lakh (Ex-sh), while 3rd gen model starts from 7.48 lakh (Ex-sh). For the month of February 2026, Honda is offering total benefits of up to Rs 57,000 on the newer 3rd gen model, while benefits on older 2nd gen models are higher at up to Rs 68,000. The total benefits with Elevate SUV is up to Rs 1.48 lakh and the pricing for this SUV start from Rs 11.6 lakh (Ex-sh). Within Hondas lineup, highest discounts are offered with City sedan. It is offered in both Petrol (City) and Petrol + Electric Hybrid powertrain options (City e:HEV). With Honda City, total benefits can go till Rs 1.28 lakh. Prices for City sedan range between Rs 11.95 lakh (Ex-sh) and Rs 16.07 lakh (Ex-sh). With City e:HEV Hybrid version, Honda is offering total benefits of up to Rs 1.97 lakh, which might nudge the buyers towards it who would otherwise think Rs 4 lakh for Hybrid tech over City ZX CVT is steep. Ex-sh price of City e:HEV is Rs 20 lakh. Strong Comeback Planned Honda Cars India Ltd has planned to make a strong comeback in the domestic market with a host of new vehicles. 10 new cars are expected to launch in India by 2030 and 7 of them will be SUVs, including offerings with both ICE and Electric powertrains. The renewed focus will also include a strong lean towards exports from India as well. President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order reaffirming the ongoing national emergency with respect to Iran. The Order establishes a process to impose tariffs on countries that acquire any goods or services from Iran in order to protect the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. The United States can now impose additional tariffs on imports from any country that directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires any goods or services from Iran. President Trump may modify the Order if circumstances change, in response to retaliation, or if Iran or an affected country takes significant steps to address the national emergency and align with the United States on national security, foreign policy, and economic matters. The Order authorizes Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer to take all necessary actions, including issuing rules and guidance, to implement the tariff system and related measures. President Trump is holding Iran accountable for its pursuit of nuclear capabilities, support for terrorism, ballistic missile development, and regional destabilization that endanger American security, allies, and interests. Iran the worlds leading state sponsor of terrorism supports proxy terrorist groups and militias across the Middle East, including those who have killed and wounded Americans and are actively targeting U.S. forces, regional partners, and allies. The mismanagement of Irans resources is clear: the regime has chosen to spend them on nuclear and missile programs while its infrastructure and people struggle. President Trump has never wavered in his stance that Iran cannot be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. Thats why on his return to office, he restored maximum pressure on Iran. The regime brutally represses its own people, killing thousands of protesters, denying human rights, and using violence to maintain power, while spreading extremism and undermining U.S. efforts for peace and stability. These actions by the Iranian regime constitute a continuing unusual and extraordinary threat to the United States, requiring a sustained and intensified response to protect American citizens, allies, and interests. In recent years the "lowaltitude economy" has become a bright hallmark on Wuhu's industrial map. From one "madeinWuhu" aircraft after another taking off from the aerospace industrial park, to the successful maiden flight of a worldleading tiltrotor, and to the establishment of the nation's first citylevel intelligent lowaltitude connectivity system, Wuhu is carving out a remarkable new flight path through the blueocean of the lowaltitude economy with steady innovation. At the recent Wuhu municipal Two Sessions, reporters learned that over the past year Wuhu's lowaltitude economy and related industries all maintained doubledigit revenue growth; the city completed the nation's first citylevel intelligent lowaltitude connectivity system; and the "Wuhu LowAltitude Integrated Regulatory Command and Dispatch Platform Project" won first prize in the national 5G applications competition finals. Wuhu is accelerating the highquality development of its lowaltitude economy. Wuhu's lowaltitude dream began with forwardlooking planning more than a decade ago. In 2013 the municipal Party committee and government strategically launched the development of the lowaltitude economy. After years of deep cultivation, this fertile industrial soil has yielded a string of significant achievements that mark homegrown breakthroughs. From the DA42 "madeinWuhu" aircraft entering market operations in 2017, to the domestically produced AE300 engine breaking the country's blank record for certified piston heavyfuel engines in 2020; from the AEC 2.0L aero enginewith fully independent intellectual propertyreceiving its type certificate and the maiden flight of the alldomestic CA42 generalaviation aircraft in 2023, to the first domestic generalaviation propeller obtaining its type certificate in 2024, Wuhu has achieved self-developed and controllable capabilities step by step across the "aircraft, power, propeller" critical links of domestic general aviation. As 2025 began, the pace of innovation accelerated further. China's first unmanned helicopter system to pass airworthiness certification, TD550D, was born, and the world's first turboprop trainer with a full carbonfiber composite airframe (TA20) made its public debut. Most notably, the final assembly and successful maiden flight of the world's first 6tonclass tiltrotor, the "Lanying R6000," signified Wuhu's entry into the global forefront in the cuttingedge tiltrotor fieldwhich combines the advantages of helicopters and fixedwing aircraftand provided the first largescale, applicationlevel solution for the industrialization and deployment of tiltrotor technology worldwide. These accomplishments are not isolated technical breakthroughs but the systematic results of Wuhu's "industry + scitech innovation" approach, using innovation to drive new quality productive forces. Together they have built Wuhu's national leading edge in lowaltitude manufacturingparticularly in small and mediumsized generalaviation aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. In Wuhu, individual technical breakthroughs have converged into the overall rise of the industrial chain; the city's lowaltitude economy has rapidly evolved from standalone manufacturing into a fullchain ecological system. Currently Wuhu has nearly 200 above designated size enterprises clustered in the lowaltitude economy industrial chain, covering entireaircraft manufacturing, drones, aero engines, propellers, avionics systems, operation services and other fullchain segments. The idea that "you can build a domestically produced generalaviation aircraft without leaving Wuhu" has become a reality. As one of the nation's first comprehensive demonstration zones for the generalaviation industry, Wuhu has earned an industry reputation captured in the saying: "for large aircraft look to Shanghai, for small aircraft look to Wuhu." A robust industrial ecosystem has attracted major projects such as Luxshare Precision and Tengden UAV, and has driven the commencement of new projects including the CETC drone base and the Yangtze River Delta comprehensive verification laboratory for lowaltitude flight safety. The provincial government established a provincial lowaltitude economy development company in Wuhu, and the Yangtze River Delta comprehensive testing and verification base for the lowaltitude economy has begun constructionfurther strengthening Wuhu's position as a core node in the province and across the Yangtze River Delta's lowaltitude economic layout. Wuhu's lowaltitude economy is accelerating its shift from "good manufacturing" toward "effective use" and "safe flight." The 2025 LowAltitude Economy Development Conference theme deepened from "develop the lowaltitude economy, create and enjoy a better future" to "scenedriven innovation leads safe and orderly development," reflecting this very trend. Looking ahead to the 15th FiveYear Plan, Wuhu has designated the lowaltitude economy as one of its leading emerging industries. In line with the government work report's directives, Wuhu will continue to focus on trends of electrification, intelligence and unmanned operationattracting and nurturing leading enterprises in eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle) manufacturing, avionics and propulsion systemsto build a full "researchmanufacturetestflight" industry chain. Meanwhile Wuhu will use the "Jiuzi SciTech Innovation Bay" as a strategic pivot to build a cluster of R&D centers for the lowaltitude economy, andleveraging its leading advantages in artificial intelligence and computing powerdeepen the integration of "AI + lowaltitude economy," expanding diversified application scenarios such as logistics distribution, urban mobility, emergency rescue and culturaltourism experiences. Source: anhuinews.com Back in 2024, Algeria became the first and so far only foreign customer of the russian Su-57 fighter jet. The country attempted to keep the purchase low profile and has not publicly showcased it. Only now has Washington reiterated that the acquisition of russian weapons may trigger sanctions under CAATSA (the Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). The possibility of imposing sanctions on Algeria was raised, albeit without specific details, by Robert J. Palladino, Head of the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, during a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. "We will use the diplomatic tools at our disposal to protect our interests and counter what we consider unacceptable," he stated in the context of Algeria's Su-57 contract. Su-57 fighter At the same time, it should be taken into account that Algeria is one of the most active operators of russian-made weapons. Its inventory includes more than 600 T-90 tanks, over 700 BMP-2M infantry fighting vehicles, Iskander tactical missile systems, and the bulk of its air defense network based on russian systems, including S-300, as well as newer Pantsir and Buk-M2 systems. Its combat aviation fleet is also entirely russian-made and comprises over 30 MiG-29 fighters, around 60 Su-30MKA aircraft, roughly 40 Mi-28 attack helicopters, and numerous other platforms. Against this backdrop, Algeria's dependence on U.S.-supplied military equipment is minimal and limited to just 14 C-130H Hercules transport aircraft and several Bell 412 light helicopters. As a result, there is a perception that CAATSA sanctions would have little practical impact on the country. However, CAATSA includes measures that go far beyond an embargo on U.S. weapons sales. These include restrictions on access to credit not only from the United States but also from international financial institutions where Washington holds voting power, limitations on banking operations and transactions in U.S. dollars, bans on attracting U.S. investments, the effective freezing of assets in the United States, and a range of personal sanctions against officials. It is also important to remember that the United States has another powerful tool at its disposal, ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). This framework allows Washington to block the export of any weapons containing U.S.-origin components to third countries. As a result, even Algeria's potential attempts to purchase Western-approved weapons, for example from European manufacturers or South Korea, could be blocked through this mechanism. While none of these sanction instruments, individually or even in combination, would be critical for Algeria, their implementation would still have tangible consequences for any country placed on a "blacklist." Moreover, CAATSA sanctions remain in force until the underlying violation is resolved, making them a long-term constraint rather than a temporary measure. Turkiye serves as a clear example. Ankara has still not been allowed to return to the F-35 program unless it disposes of its russian-made S-400 systems. At the same time, other defense contracts, including those related to the F-16, have been offered to Turkiye at extremely inflated prices. As a result, Ankara paid USD 7.2 billion to the United Kingdom for 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets along with their weapons, largely because there were no viable alternatives. This situation stemmed directly from Turkiye's 2017 purchase of four S-400 divisions from russia for USD 2.5 billion. OSLO, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Mona Juul has stepped down as Norway's ambassador to Jordan, also accredited to Iraq, after revelations about her contact with Jeffrey Epstein, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Sunday. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide called the resignation "right and necessary," saying Juul's contact with the convicted sex offender showed a "serious failure of judgment" and made it difficult to restore the level of trust required for the post, the ministry said in a statement. Juul had been relieved of her work obligations last week while the ministry reviewed her knowledge of and contact with Epstein, according to the ministry. The ministry said its internal fact-finding will continue even after Juul's resignation, with particular attention to the rules that apply to state employees and officials both in and outside service. Separately, the ministry said it had launched a review of its grants to and contacts with the International Peace Institute during the period when Juul's husband, Terje Rod-Larsen, led the organization. Eide described information that has emerged about Rod-Larsen's contact with Epstein as "very extensive" and "highly concerning," adding that there was "no doubt" he had shown poor judgment. Epstein, who died in 2019, was a U.S. financier accused of sex trafficking. The U.S. Department of Justice said on Jan. 30 that it had published more than 3 million additional pages of materials under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which it said was signed into law by President Donald Trump in November 2025. Okokrim, Norway's national authority for investigating and prosecuting economic and environmental crime, said on Thursday that it had opened an investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland on suspicion of aggravated corruption based on information contained in the Epstein files, noting his past roles including chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee and secretary general of the Council of Europe. Editor: Xiong Jian Aurrigo International said on Monday that it expected to report revenue of about 8m for the year ended 31 December, ahead of rebased expectations, as performance across both divisions improved despite a volatile macroeconomic backdrop. The AIM-traded transport technology group said the full-year revenue outcome compared with 8.9m in 2024 and was above market expectations that were reset in August. Adjusted EBITDA losses and losses before tax were expected to be in line with expectations, with improving gross margins partly offset by modestly higher operating costs as the business invested in scaling its operations. In the automotive division, the company reported a strong recovery in the second half of the year after volumes stabilised following tariff-related disruption affecting UK OEM customers in the second quarter. As a result, second-half revenues were around 30% higher than in the first half, with full-year automotive revenue expected to be 5.4m, down from 5.9m in 2024. The autonomous division contributed 2.5m of revenue, compared with 2.9m a year earlier, reflecting continued progress across core programmes, although some delivery milestones moved into the new financial year. During the period, Aurrigo launched Auto-Cargo, its largest autonomous aviation vehicle to date, and signed a strategic partnership with Swissport International. The company also reported further progress integrating autonomous solutions into airport systems and securing new projects, supported by sustained engagement with airports and ground handlers. Aurrigo said it ended the year with cash of 11.5m, ahead of expectations, following a 13.8m net fundraising during the year. The raise brought in new institutional shareholders as well as the companys first strategic investor, Nex Gen Mobility, leaving the group positioned to support growth initiatives. I am really proud of the performance of the company, with a full year outturn ahead of expectations as reset in August, which reflects how closely we work with customers to support them through uncertain market conditions, said chief executive David Keene. With a strong cash position and a clear pipeline of opportunities, we head into 2026 confident in the progress the company will make. At 1211 GMT, shares in Aurrigo International were up 2.86% at 90p. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. Warpaint said on Monday that it has bought cosmetics brand Barry M for 1.4m as it downgraded its outlook for full-year earnings, citing a challenging market. The company, which owns the W7 and Technic brands, among others, has bought Barry M out of administration. It noted that the business had revenue of about 15m in the year ended 28 February 2025. News of the acquisition came alongside a trading update in which Warpaint warned that adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation for 2025 were set to fall to about 22m from 25m a year earlier. Revenue is expected to be about 105m, up from 102m in 2024. It had previously guided to adjusted EBITDA of between 23.5m and 25.5m and revenues of 107m to 112m. Warpaint said it successfully delivered its expected strong second half rollout programme into new retail outlets, including with Superdrug, Tesco, Boots, Tigota, Etos and CVS. However, revenue took a circa 3m hit from the closure of Bodycare, which is a significant customer to Technic. It was also impacted by the "challenging" consumer and customer environment and business lost as a result of US tariff uncertainty earlier in the year, which led to stalled momentum in the US. Chief executive Sam Bazini said: "Looking ahead to the new year, we expect to see a return to organic growth across the group and also expect to be able to update the market on further significant new customer roll outs with our full year results in April. In addition, we are delighted to announce today the acquisition of the Barry M brand, which is expected to accelerate our penetration into key UK retail channels. "Despite the 2025 results being heavily impacted by the very challenging macroeconomic environment seen during the year, we were pleased with the progress made in many areas of the group. In particular with the Brand Architekts business, which delivered a profit in year one and we look forward to developing the further opportunities we see for this business. Across the group, we remain very well positioned for the future, with a focus on achieving additional improvements in margins and further roll-outs to new retail outlets." At 0950 GMT, the shares were down 5% at 210p. Tuesday will see the release of results from BP , AstraZeneca , Barclays and Dunelm . As far as BP is concerned, UBS noted that the oil giants Q4 statement on 14 January pointed towards an operating performance below consensus, albeit one that was largely in line with the banks estimates. "The main surprise came from indications of $4-5bn of impairments across the transition businesses, which suggests a slightly higher gearing level despite closing circa $3.5bn of asset sales in the quarter," UBS said. "Our updated 4Q net income estimate of $4.5bn is 2% above consensus, and our CFFO ex-WC estimate of $6.0bn is 3% above consensus. "We expect the company to maintain buybacks at $750m, although we see risk as skewed to the downside given the change of management, and a distribution breakeven oil price of circa $70/bl." Derren Nathan, head of equity analysis at Hargreaves Lansdown, said AstraZeneca is heading into its final quarter with strong momentum, and while there was no upgrade following third-quarter results, theres still potential for results to land a little stronger than expected. "While there can be no guarantee, the market forecasts to beat are for growth of 8.4% in revenue to $58.6 billion, and 7.7% in operating profit to $18.3 billion," he said. "When the companys shares were admitted to trading on the New York Stock Exchange this week, Astra reiterated its confidence in reaching its 2030 revenue target of $80 billion. 2025 saw strong clinical progress on drugs whose peak annual revenue potential collectively exceeded $10 billion. But analysts look like they still need some convincing that the 2030 target is achievable. Guidance for 2026 and beyond will be the key metrics to monitor." In the US, quarterly results are due from Coca-Cola, Spotify, Ford and Harley-Davidson, among others. On the macroeconomic front, US retail sales figures for December will be released. Michael Hewson at MCH Market Insights said: "A strong set of retail sales numbers in November saw an increase of 0.5%, as discounting and bargain hunting in the wake of the October and November US government shutdown saw a rebound in consumer sentiment leading into the Christmas period. "This trend is expected to continue in the lead-up to Christmas, in the delayed December release of retail sales, however with the cold weather hitting the US in January this trend could slow when these numbers come out later this month. "The recent sharp slowdown in US consumer confidence during January saw a drop to 84.5, from 94.2, the weakest level since 2014. While the December numbers wont reflect this, be prepared for a sharp slowdown when we get the latest January numbers, unless on-line shopping takes up some of the slack with the recent cold weather." Tuesday February 10 INTERIMS Dunelm Group QUARTERLY PAYMENT DATE TBC Bank Group INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC ANNOUNCEMENTS Import and Export Price Indices (US) (13:30) Retail Sales (US) (13:30) Q4 AstraZeneca, BP FINALS AstraZeneca, Barclays, BP, Coca-Cola HBC AG (CDI) EGMS Air Astana Joint Stock Company Gdr (Each Repr 4 Com Shs) (Reg S) TRADING ANNOUNCEMENTS Bellway FINAL DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE The Sage Group Kyndryl shares were plummeting on Monday, after the company reported mixed third-quarter results and sharply lowered its full-year outlook, while disclosing leadership changes and an accounting review, developments that overshadowed growth in its consulting and cloud-alliance businesses. The IT service provider posted third-quarter revenue of $3.9bn for the period ended 31 December, up 3% year on year on a reported basis but flat in constant currency. Net income fell to $57m, or 25 cents per share, from $215m a year earlier, reflecting the absence of a prior-year transaction-related benefit. On an adjusted basis, earnings were 52 cents per share, below market expectations, while adjusted EBITDA came in at $696m and free cash flow at $217m. Operationally, the quarter showed continued momentum in growth areas. Revenue tied to cloud hyperscaler alliances reached $500m, a 58% increase from a year earlier, putting the company on track to exceed its $1.8bn target for 2026. Kyndryl Consult revenues rose 24% year on year, with trailing 12-month revenues of $3.6bn and signings of $4.1bn. Total signings over the past 12 months reached $15.4bn, including 11 contracts above $50 million in the quarter. However, the company cut its 2026 guidance, now forecasting a constant-currency revenue decline of 2% to 3%, compared with a prior expectation of growth. Adjusted pretax income was expected to be $575m to $600m and free cash flow $325m to $375m, both well below previous targets. Management cited extended sales cycles and continued transformation costs, even as it reiterated its focus on profitable growth and margin improvement over the medium term. The update was accompanied by significant governance developments. Kyndryl said it was reviewing its cash management practices, disclosures related to adjusted free cash flow and the effectiveness of its internal controls after receiving voluntary document requests from the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The company said it would delay filing its quarterly Form 10-Q and expected to report material weaknesses in internal controls for multiple reporting periods, though it said it did not anticipate a restatement of its financial statements. At the same time, the group announced leadership changes, naming Harsh Chugh as interim chief financial officer, Mark Ringes as interim general counsel and Bhavna Doegar as interim corporate controller, following the departures of the previous CFO and general counsel. Chief executive Martin Schroeter said the company was addressing the review proactively while continuing to execute on its multi-year strategy. At 1222 ET (1722 GMT), shares in Kyndryl Holdings were down 54.96% in New York at $10.58. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. Julapun Amornvivat (C, front), leader of the Pheu Thai Party, speaks at a press conference at the headquarters of the party in Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 8, 2026. Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul announced at a press conference on Sunday that the Bhumjaithai Party has won Thailand's House of Representatives election. With more than 87 percent of ballots counted by the country's Election Commission, the Bhumjaithai Party is leading the vote, followed by the People's Party in second place and the Pheu Thai Party in third. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak) BANGKOK, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul announced at a press conference on Sunday that the Bhumjaithai Party has won Thailand's House of Representatives election. Anutin said that the victory is a victory of all people. With more than 87 percent of ballots counted by the country's Election Commission, the Bhumjaithai Party is leading the vote, followed by the People's Party in second place and the Pheu Thai Party in third. At an earlier press conference, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, said that the party accepts the current result and will not form a competing coalition. If the Bhumjaithai Party forms a government, the People's Party is ready to act as an opposition party, he said. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of Thailand's Democrat Party, also expressed the party's readiness to act as an opposition party. Julapun Amornvivat, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, said that the party respects the people's choice and will do its best to work for the people whether as the ruling party or an opposition party. Editor: Xiong Jian Shares of Danish pharmaceuticals firm Novo Nordisk surged on Monday after US telehealth company Hims & Hers said it had ditched plans to sell its own version of the Wegovy weight-loss drug. On a post on X on Saturday, the company said: "Since launching the compounded semaglutide pill on our platform, weve had constructive conversations with stakeholders across the industry. "As a result, we have decided to stop offering access to this treatment. We remain committed to the millions of Americans who depend on us for access to safe, affordable, and personalised care." Novo Nordisk said in a statement on Monday that it had filed a lawsuit against Hims for infringing on its patents. It said "Hims has engaged in promotional campaigns that highlight its compounded semaglutide products, duping consumers and healthcare professionals as to the clinical benefits and safety of these unapproved drugs". This includes Hims recent launch, and two days later, "abrupt discontinuance of its compounded GLP-1 pill", Novo said, which came "hot on the heels" of the Danish firms introduction of the Wegovy pill - the first and only FDA-approved GLP-1 pill for weight loss. "Hims continues to unlawfully mass compound injectable versions, made with inauthentic API, and these knock-offs are putting patient health and wellbeing at risk," the company said. At 1355 GMT, Novo Nordisk shares were up 6.5% at DKK314.70, while Hims shares were down a whopping 22% in pre-market trade at $18.00. London stocks were set to gain at the open on Monday as Japans Nikkei surged nearly 4% after prime minister Takaichi secured a landslide victory in Sundays general election. The FTSE 100 was called to open around 48 points higher. Ipek Ozkardeskaya, senior analyst at Swissquote, said: "She pulled off a stunning victory, with her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) scoring a historic landslide and securing a two-thirds supermajority in the powerful lower house of parliament - even more if you include its coalition partner. "That gives her party its most dominant position in decades and a strong mandate to push through an expansive fiscal agenda, particularly benefiting defence and technology. This likely helps explain why South Koreas Kospi rebounded nearly 4% today. Still, the tech rebound could face speed bumps ahead. "Across Japanese markets, JGB yields jumped at the open, with the 10-year returning to the highest levels in a week on fiscal spending concerns. The Nikkei and Topix also jumped at the open, both hitting fresh record highs on growth and fiscal optimism, but the Nikkei later gave back most early gains - likely reflecting rising yield pressure and concerns that growth may come at a cost. The Topix, by contrast, is holding on to gains, up more than 2% at the time of writing." In UK corporate news, NatWest said it was buying UK wealth manager Evelyn Partners from funds advised by Permira and Warburg Pincus for 2.7bn and launching a new 750m share buyback. The bank said the deal would increase fee income by 20% pre-revenue synergies. Evelyn Partners has 69bn of assets under management. Ocado is reportedly planning to cut up to 1,000 jobs, or 5% of its global headcount, as part of a renewed cost-cutting drive after a bruising year for its automated warehouse business. According to The Times, talks are still in their early stages and a final decision has yet to be made. One source said an announcement could come as soon as this month and that they expected the majority of the cuts to be in the UK-based head office, including technology roles alongside some back office staff across legal, finance and human resources. Telecommunications firm Vodafone said that its African subsidiary, Vodacom Group, had confirmed Vodafone Egypt's participation in a multiyear investment programme led by Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. Vodafone said the initiative covers spectrum in the 1,800MHz and 3,500MHz bands, as well as the renewal of existing 2,600MHz spectrum. Payment will be made over four annual instalments, starting with $100m in FY26. The drama surrounding UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer intensified on Monday when his director of communications Tim Allan stepped down after five months in post and only 24 hours after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney. Both resignations come amid fury over the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington despite his relationship with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Allan, who had worked in Tony Blairs administration as deputy press secretary, said in a short statement that he decided to stand down to allow a new No 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success. He returned to Downing Street last September as Starmer shook up his team, replacing former Daily Mirror journalist James Lyons, who lasted as director of strategic communications for only a year. McSweeney quit on Sunday afternoon after the clamour for him to go showed no signs of abating and said he took full responsibility for his advice to appoint Mandelson after it emerged that his relationship with Epstein had continued after the disgraced banker had served a jail sentence for sexual trafficking. The loss of McSweeney, who was at the centre of Starmers rise to power and Labours crushing General Election win of 2024, will be a major blow to Starmer and leave him exposed to potential leadership challenges from MPs who feel he has not been bold enough or quick to counter the rising popularity of far-right party Reform. Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com Labour will introduce legislation to lower the minimum age for train drivers to 18 in the House of Commons this week, as figures show fewer than 3% of drivers on Great Britains railways are under 30. The government is pressing ahead with its proposals for teenage recruits, lowering the minimum age from 20, in a move that ministers hope will stave off a potential shortage of thousands of drivers. Guardian Bank chairs who water down their lenders climate commitments this year could face embarrassing shareholder revolts as campaigners try to hold bosses to account for environmental backtracking. ShareAction, a campaign group for responsible investment, will be issuing detailed reports to pension funds and asset managers in the coming weeks, outlining whether 34 of the worlds largest lenders are sticking to their climate goals. - Guardian Ocado is preparing to cut as many as 1,000 jobs as part of a scramble to drive down costs. The struggling online supermarket, which employs around 20,000 staff, is preparing to reduce headcount to save hundreds of millions of pounds. The proposed redundancies could be approved later this month, with those in its head office most likely to be affected. However, a final decision has yet to be made. - Telegraph Rachel Reeves has been warned that her tax raid on cash Isas will push savers towards online scammers. The Chancellors decision to cut the annual cash Isa limit by 8,000 by 2027 will lead more people to be sucked into investment frauds that entice people with the promise of high returns, according to challenger bank Starling. Telegraph Two peregrine falcons are causing uncertainty over a plan for a 21-storey office block near the Barbican in London after City authorities warned the developer of 1 Silk Street that the birds are using nearby towers as breeding sites. Lipton Rogers, the London property company behind the proposal for the 450 million offices, has been told it must determine whether the falcons are nesting at its site, The Sunday Telegraph reported. The Times Klook, a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, announces the opening of applications for Chief Spring Officer, a new time-sensitive role created to help travelers better navigate the complexities of spring travel across Japan, South Korea, and Mainland China. The MarchApril spring season is one of the most operationally demanding travel periods in the region, shaped by a shifting short-lived cherry blossom window, unpredictable weather conditions, and peak-period crowds. Despite these challenges, spring travel demand remains strong. Comparing the MarchApril period year-on-year, Klook saw experience bookings increase by 34% in Japan, 92% in South Korea, and 46% in Mainland China from 2024 to 2025, and anticipates this growth momentum in 2026. "Spring is one of the most rewarding and beautiful times to travel, but it also comes with an overwhelming amount of information, from search results to social feeds, about where and when to go", says Marcus Yong, Vice President, Global Marketing at Klook. "With so many opinions and predictions, it can be difficult for travelers to know what's current, accurate, and actually works on the ground". "Through the Chief Spring Officer role, we're pairing on-the-ground spring expertise with Klook's range of quality curated experiences, so travelers can rely on verified guidance and navigate peak season with greater clarity and confidence," he says. The Chief Spring Officer will deliver LIVE insights during peak spring season, translating firsthand travel experiences into practical guidance, content, and recommendations that help travelers plan and move with greater ease. The role reflects Klooks continued focus on experience-led discovery and travel intelligence. The successful candidate will monitor bloom progression, respond to changing on-ground conditions in real time, and test curated Klook experiences, from rail passes to walking tours, to ensure recommendations remain relevant as spring unfolds. Applications for the Chief Spring Officer role are open for a limited time. Individuals with firsthand experience traveling during spring in Japan, South Korea, or Mainland China are encouraged to apply. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Staten Island veterinarian died from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning while operating on a dog inside a mobile clinic van in Queens, according to the New York Daily News. Ashraf Hussein, 56 of Eltingville, was found dead inside the van on Feb. 1, which had been parked beside a large snowbank in Flushing, and the dog he was operating on also did not survive. The Daily News said the citys medical examiner confirmed the cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning on Thursday. The medical examiners office has not responded to a request for comment. The clinics owner, 73yearold Garo Alexanian, was discovered unconscious outside after a witness called 911, Advance/SILive.com previously reported. Ashraf Hussein died while performing surgery on a dog inside a mobile vet clinic. Courtsey of Mahmoud Hussein Alexanian later told a bystander, according to the report, that he and Hussein had been trapped in the poorly ventilated van for hours before he managed to escape and collapse on the sidewalk. Investigators believe the exhaust pipe may have become clogged with snow, filling the van with deadly fumes, according to the outlet. Hussein, who worked for the mobile clinic for more than 15 years, was described by his wife, 46-year-old Marwa Mansour, as a devoted veterinarian who loved animals deeply. He would get off work and drive all the way down to Queens. It wasnt about the money, Mansour said to the Advance/SILive.com. He would literally volunteer on Tuesday and Saturday. Thats when he passed away on Saturday. Thats how much he loved his job. A GoFundMe created by the Voices for the Voiceless community described Hussein as a compassionate person. Even in his final moments, he was doing what he had always done showing up to serve, putting the needs of others before his own, the fundraiser said. His sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of the many families and pet owners who trusted him. The lives he saved, the comfort he gave, and the dignity with which he practiced his work will never be forgotten. The proceeds raised will go toward covering the doctors funeral expenses. Calls for an investigation In the aftermath, the family was overwhelmed with grief and searching for answers. Mansour has repeatedly questioned how conditions inside the van led to her husbands death. We want to know: How could this happen? Mansour questioned. Who was responsible?" Hussein was laid to rest Tuesday at MAS Staten Island, located at 180 Burgher Ave. in Dongan Hills. He is survived by his wife, Marwa Mansour, and children, Yousef, Omar and Mahmoud Hussein. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A 34-year-old Annadale man was arrested and faces weapons charges, after officers from the 123rd Precinct allege they recovered two loaded firearms during an investigation, authorities said. According to the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information, Justin Ferguson, of the 600 block of Annadale Road, was taken into custody on Feb. 2 at about 6:13 p.m. on the 500 block of Drumgoole Road. The arrest stemmed from an ongoing investigation, police said to the Advance/SILive.com. In a post on the 123rd Precincts X account, the command credited Sgt. DeConcilio and Police Officers Khaimov and Hajiyeva for removing the weapons and the individual carrying them from the community. No day on patrol is routine, the precinct wrote. No day on patrol is routine, Sergeant DeConcilio along with Police Officers Khaimov and Hajiyeva removed these two loaded firearms as well as the individual carrying them from our streets pic.twitter.com/SIX39WmHe4 NYPD 123rd Precinct (@NYPD123Pct) February 5, 2026 Ferguson faces criminal possession of a weapon in the second, third and fourth degrees, along with multiple counts of criminal possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition, according to court records. Court records show Ferguson was arraigned and pleaded not guilty. Bail was set at $15,000 cash, $45,000 insured bond, or a $45,000 partially secured surety bond, and was posted on Feb. 3. His next appearance is scheduled for April 14 in Richmond Criminal Court in St. George. Ferguson is represented by attorney Louis M. Gelormino, who did not return a request for comment in time for publication. While many New Yorkers were caught off guard by the recent low temperatures, they may be in for another surprise when paying their utility bill. Though utility bills typically increase in January and February, Con Edison is warning that energy bills may be higher than usual, according to a recent report from Gothamist. Con Edison is advising customers that energy use from the prolonged extreme cold likely hasnt been reflected on their bill yet, according to the report. Specifically, the public utility is messaging customers to expect a bump of up to 10% more than they typically pay, the outlet reports. According to the outlet, the messages specifically warn that colder weather plays a role in energy bills increasing during the winter and that homes tend to use more energy to stay warm, which will eventually be reflected in bills. Your next energy bill may be more than youre used to seeing, Con Ed said in one email after warning that the recent weather is some of the coldest in more than a decade. Con Edison bill increases have been up for discussion recently. Mamdani, Trump talked Con Ed rates In November, President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani discussed pressing Con Ed to lower their rates during a meeting at the White House. At the time, a source with Mamdanis transition team said that during the meeting, the mayor broached the urgent need to lower energy bills for New Yorkers and challenge Con Edisons rate hikes. Speaking to the press from the Oval Office, Trump confirmed that he and Mamdani spoke on the matter in their closed-door meeting. Con Edison previously sought to increase rates by 11.4% for electric and 13.3% for natural gas, as reported by CBS News. That proposal changed to 11.3% for electric and 10.5% for gas following pushback, as indicated in the report. Recently, a newer proposal was made in which New York City and Westchester County customers would see increases of 2.8% on the average electric bill each year and 2% increases for gas as part of a three-year plan, according to CBS News. Mamdani was one of the lawmakers who slammed the proposed increases earlier this year, saying at the time, As New Yorkers face an acute affordability crisis, ConEd is again proposing a rate increase for gas. The government has allocated more than UAH 400 million to finance the grant program for the development of horticulture and greenhouse farming in 2026, the acceptance of applications for which was resumed from February 2, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture Taras Vysotsky said on the air of a national telethon. "This year, more than UAH 400 million has been allocated for the grant program for orchards and greenhouses, with UAH 220 million earmarked for greenhouse development. The final amount may be adjusted based on submitted applications, but the funding targets will remain unchanged," he said. According to the deputy minister, the project focuses on supporting small and medium-sized agribusinesses, creating jobs in rural areas, and assisting relocated enterprises. Under the program, farmers can receive up to UAH 10 million for establishing orchards (up to UAH 400,000 per hectare) and up to UAH 7 million for greenhouse construction. In frontline territories, the state provides up to 80% co-financing, while in other regions it covers 50%. Vysotsky noted that the list of supported crops includes all major species grown under Ukraines natural and climatic conditions, including apples, blueberries, hazelnuts, apricots, peaches, and other berry and nut plantations. "Grants are available both to existing farmers and those planning to start their own agricultural businesses," the deputy minister emphasized. Mandatory requirements remain the creation of new jobs, the presence of irrigation systems, and compliance of greenhouses with standard modular designs. Applications are submitted through the Diia portal. According to industry associations, government support has helped accelerate the development of horticulture in Ukraine fourfold compared with pre-war levels. According to an advocacy group, active military personnel from around the world were reportedly pressured into seeing Melania, the documentary about First Lady Melania Trump. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation was sent missives from eight military facilities, describing experiences that left personnel scared. They were pressured to see the movie. Your military superior, thats not your shift manager at Taco Bell or Starbucks. They have complete and total control over you, MRFF President and Founder Mikey Weinstein said to Business Insider. One of those letters read, Nobody that I know wanted to go except for those that did not want to get jacked up by our unit commander for not attending. Said unit commander was reported to have worn red MAGA hats in the past and made it very clear how he feels about those who do not support the administrations agenda, according to the Daily Beast. The author of the letter explained that personnel are required to join a trio of unit activity events, of which the Melania screening was allegedly deemed one. he advised our unit members and their families to join him and his wife and children for a showing of that new documentary called Melania at an off-base movie theater When he said advised, we know what that meant, the author wrote. The Daily Beast reached out to the Department of War formerly known as the Department of Defense to see if such a directive was issued to thousands of military personnel, to which they said there was no such thing, though the film is fantastic. The film debuted Jan. 30, 2026, and received a meager $7 million in sales opening weekend. The film cost Amazon, the producer, $75 million to make and market. It was directed by Brett Ratner, who was accused of rape and sexual assault in 2017. He was also mentioned in the Jeffrey Epstein files. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The FDNY extinguished another fire in the dangerous cold on Sunday, this time at a home in Tompkinsville. The fire was first reported in the basement of a two-story home located at 362 Victory Blvd. at 10:43 a.m., according to a spokesperson from the FDNY. As real-feel temperatures on Staten Island were well below zero, 21 units and 79 fire and EMS personnel brought the blaze under control by 11:16 a.m. No injuries were reported from the blaze, according to the spokesperson. In video posted on Citizen, firefighters could be seen lining the road on Victory Boulevard, between Cebra Avenue and Austin Place while working to get the basement fire under control. One firefighter was injured as the FDNY responded to a fire in a two-story apartment building at 1300 Richmond Ave. in Graniteville on Sunday morning. Feb. 8 2026. (Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo) Earlier on Sunday, an apartment fire in Graniteville drew a similarly sized response from the FDNY. In that blaze, four people were evaluated for injuries and one firefighter was taken to Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton. Captain Trent Coppolo greets Mayor Zohran Mamdani upon his arrival to thank firefighters and EMS personnel for keeping New Yorkers safe during the cold snap at Engine 168, EMS Battalion 23 in Rossville on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. (Owen Reiter for the Advance/SILive.com) Owen Reiter This weekend, the boroughs FDNY crews drew high praise from Mayor Zohran Mamdani for their ongoing work during the extreme cold. Mamdani and Fire Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore visited the Engine 168/EMS Station 23 at 1100 Rossville Ave., bringing staff pizza and praising the departments efforts in responding to emergencies while weathering the wind chill, snow and ice. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. If you received an alert about a January 2025 data breach involving the New York Blood Center, you could be eligible for up to $2,500 in recompense. The breach involved sensitive information, including things like Social Security numbers, direct deposit information, data about blood types and exam conclusions, and more. As a result, a class action lawsuit was filed: Dean, et al. v. New York Blood Center Inc., et al. A settlement was reached, allowing for those impacted to receive payment for the loss of data security out of a fund of $500,000. Depending on how much information you provide, your payment could range from $20 to $2,500. If you have proof of monetary losses due to fraud or identity theft between Jan. 26, 2025, and Feb. 11, 2026, you could be eligible for the higher end of the reimbursement. Otherwise, you can opt for a single $20 payout if you have a valid claim, according to the settlements website; or you can excuse yourself from the settlement funding altogether. The settlement website, https://bloodcenterssettlement.com/, offers a bevy of information regarding the lawsuit and the payments, including a timeline of when information should be sent in in order to claim your compensation. Feb. 11, 2026, is the last day to submit a claim. Every claimant has been assigned a unique Notice ID and PIN issued on the notice of the data breach that they can use to log into their portal to submit a claim. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Mayor Zohran Mamdani and a local pizzeria brought some warm, cheesy goodness to hardworking firefighters serving Staten Island. Towne Deli Pizzeria served up about eight pies that the mayor handed out to FDNY Engine 167 & Ladder 87 on Annadale Road Saturday, according to manager Victor Polizzotto. Captain Trent Coppolo greets Mayor Zohran Mamdani upon his arrival to thank firefighters and EMS personnel for keeping New Yorkers safe during the cold snap at Engine 168, EMS Battalion 23 in Rossville on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. (Owen Reiter for the Advance/SILive.com) Owen Reiter It was a nice day, being able to see all the guys that work hard and do their time diligently for the city, serving our community, Polizzotto said. Mamdani carried three pies into the firehouse himself, beaming as he handed them to a firefighter. During the visit to the Staten Island firehouse, Mamdani also praised firefighters for keeping the city safe during a historic cold snap. Firefighters on Staten Island responded to two fires in the dangerous cold on Sunday. Im here to also appreciate the incredible work of fire and EMS workers who do not have the luxury of staying inside in a moment like this. Theyre outside making sure that New Yorkers are safe, New Yorkers are warm, Mamdani said. Shaking hands and chatting, the mayor even got to wish a local boy visiting the firehouse a very happy birthday. Towne Deli Pizzeria, often referred to simply as Towne Deli, has been serving Staten Island for over 50 years. Mayors and S.I. pizza Mamdani isnt the first New York City mayor to check out some Staten Island pies. Mayor Bill de Blasio started #forkgate after being spotted at Goodfellas chowing down on some pizza using a knife and fork back in 2014. In my ancestral homeland, it is more typical to eat with a fork and knife, the Italian-American defended himself. I have been in Italy a lot, and I have picked up the habit -- for a certain type of pizza. When you have a pizza like this, it had a lot on it, you know, I often start with a knife and fork, but then I cross over to the American approach, and I pick it up when I go farther into the pizza. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Staten Island native and retired Army Sgt. Maj. Eric Geressy and the late Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis never met in the military. In fact, 1988, the year Ollis was born, Geressy was serving his first year in the Army. Yet they shared many similarities: a home borough, enlisting at the age of 17, and a familial legacy of military service. Geressy, who currently serves as the senior advisor to the U.S. secretary of war for strategy, didnt notice these similarities when he was first reviewing Ollis case for the Medal of Honor. He only saw something he knew needed to be recognized and platformed valor. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Eric Geressy is shown at the Joint Security Area in the demilitarized zone in Panmunjeom, Republic of Korea, on Nov. 3, 2025. Geressy made promoting Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis' award a full-time duty, navigating complex military review processes to secure the recognition. Courtesy of DoW and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Madelyn Keech He did what he did completely voluntarily on his own,' Geressy said of Olis. When these guys are doing stuff like this, its not for medals, its not for accolades, its not for any kind of personal recognition. Theyre doing things because they need to be done. He saved lives, and he did that on his own, because that was the right thing to do. The story of Ollis being awarded the Medal of Honor, however, starts years before his file reached Geressys desk. A New Dorp resident, Ollis was killed on Aug. 28, 2013, during a Taliban attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni while serving with Bushmaster Company, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division. During the assault, Ollis placed himself between a suicide bomber and a Polish allied officer, shielding the officer from the full force of the explosion and sacrificing his own life. Witnesses have said Ollis actions not only saved the life of Polish Army 2nd Lt. Karol Cierpica but also helped preserve the lives of more than 40 military and civilian personnel on the base. In the years since his death, Ollis family, veterans organizations, elected officials and members of the Staten Island community have pushed to have the local hero recognized. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Audie Murphy Medallion, Polish Armed Forces Gold Medal as well as the Silver Star, which was upgraded to a Distinguished Service Cross in 2019. In July of 2022, Sen. Chuck Schumer, a Democrat representing New York in Congress, wrote a letter to Chief of Staff of the Army General Randy A. George, urging the Army to recommend Ollis for the Medal of Honor distinction. In January 2026, Congress member Nicole Malliotakis, a Republican who represents Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn, delivered a letter to President Donald Trump expressing her support for posthumously awarding Ollis the honor. According to Geressy, the process of upgrading the award to the Medal of Honor was brought to his attention by author Tom Sileo, who reached out to encourage the Pentagon to reexamine the case of the Staten Island native. Although Geressy was already familiar with Ollis through friends who served in the 10th Mountain Division, He was drawn in by the young mans integrity, his commitment to his fellow service members, and his rare embodiment of a true warrior. You hear a lot about restoring the warrior ethos, Geressy stated in an interview with the Advance/SILive.com. What Staff Sgt. Ollis did is that. If people dont understand what it means by warrior ethos, they just need to read his citation. Geressy took on the full-time task of promoting Ollis worthiness for the Medal of Honor. The process of submitting nominations for high-level awards involves multiple layers of military review, which requires many investigations, interviews and reexaminations. The review starts at the unit level before moving through various military offices, including the Army chief of staff, secretary of the Army and the chairmans office. Pete Hegseth, the current secretary of war, was able to issue a favorable determination, but the final decision always rests with the president of the United States. On Feb. 3, 2026, President Donald Trump approved the honor, making Ollis the third Staten Islander to receive the Medal of Honor, joining the Rev. Lt. Vincent R. Capodanno and World War II soldier Joseph F. Merrell Jr. The complexity of the process, dozens of people involved and the limited experience among younger military personnel in awarding Medal of Honor-level awards presented challenges. This was our first big war since Vietnam,' he said. So there wasnt a lot of experience awarding people that had seen this much combat." Geressy himself received the Distinguished Service Cross in 2025 for his own heroic actions during a six-hour ambush in Baghdad 18 years ago. On Sept. 4, 2007, more than 100 al-Qaida fighters launched a complex assault on Combat Outpost Blackfoot. During the attack, then-1st Sgt. Geressy exposed himself to direct enemy fire to carry a wounded soldier to safety, according to the award citation. For more than six hours, Geressy orchestrated the defense operations, while inspiring his soldiers, directing fire and calling in air support. The award citation praised his success and calmness under fire. This was his third tour in combat, where he continuously rose to any challenge that he faced. Still, he accepted the prestigious award humbly, stating at the ceremony that the recognition belongs to all the troops with which he served. This is one of the reasons Geressy is so passionate about awarding honors to service members, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice, like Ollis. Theyll punish in a heartbeat, but to recognize the valor, and telling the story of what our service members endured and what they did in combat for each other they arent so quick to do, he recalled. So its our duty. We preach that to the units and the leaders to recognize your service members with these awards. Theyre there for a reason. It tells the story. It highlights the military service. It motivates the next generation of warriors. He also knows how much receiving the highest military honor means to Ollis parents, Robert and Linda Ollis. Itll never replace his memory and there will always be that seat thats empty, he said solemnly. But what he did for the country, what he did for his brothers on his left and his right, they could be extremely proud of, and they dont mourn alone. Now, we will never forget him. IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column highlighting the various activities that engage school communities. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Ralph R. McKee Career and Technical Education High School in St. George recently celebrated a powerful and inspiring event that showcased far more than a comedy performance. Students participated in a social-emotional and mental health-focused afterschool program rooted in the art of improvisation. These students took the stage on Dec. 12 at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Manhattan performing alongside and learning from renowned comedians, including Chris Gethard, Jaime Rivera, and Shannon ONeill. The event highlighted student growth, courage, connection, and the critical role that the arts play in supporting mental health for young people. The performance was part of an innovative partnership with McKee High School and Laughing Together. The key purpose was to expand advocacy, awareness, and access to mental health supports for students through a low-impact, destigmatized, and engaging medium. The key purpose of the program was to expand advocacy, awareness, and access to mental health supports for students through a low-impact, destigmatized, and engaging medium. (Courtesy of William Gallagher) Students met once a week, immersing themselves in the skills and principles of improv, like thinking and reacting in the moment, collaborating authentically, listening deeply, and supporting one another without judgment. Students learned how to manage anxiety, make quick decisions under pressure, and build confidence in their own voice. The culminating show brought together students, families, and school staff to witness this impact firsthand. For many students who were previously quiet, reserved, or introverted, this performance marked a personal milestone. Participants of the program also gained stronger peer connections, improved communication skills, and had a greater sense of belonging. This initiative underscored the importance of increasing arts-based mental health support in schools and empowering student voices. Send us your stories Do you have a story idea for the In Class education column? Email education reporter Annalise Knudson at aknudson@siadvance.com. President Donald Trump took aim at an American Olympian for saying it brings up mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now. Hunter Hess, a 27-year-old freestyle skier, was interviewed on Friday by reporters when he expressed his opinion about the current state of America. Its a little hard. Theres obviously a lot going on that Im not the biggest fan of and I think a lot of people arent. Just because Im wearing the flag doesnt mean I represent everything thats going on in the U.S., Hess explained. While it isnt clear what Hess is specifically referencing when he said, theres obviously a lot going on, America has drawn attention worldwide for persistent ICE raids under Trumps direction, the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and overall political animosity. Trump was quick to call Hess a real Loser in a Truth Social post. U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesnt represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If thats the case, he shouldnt have tried out for the Team, and its too bad hes on it. Very hard to root for someone like this, Trump admonished. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! Hess wasnt the only American freestyle skier to address the countrys tumult. Im heartbroken about whats happening in the United States. I think that as a country we need to focus on respecting everybodys rights and making sure that we are treating our citizens as well as anybody with love and respect. I hope that when people look at athletes competing in the Olympics, they realize that thats the America that were trying to represent, 27-year-old Chris Lillis said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Some more winter weather may be headed our way, with meteorologists tracking a wintry mix for Tuesday evening. As we head into tomorrow evening and tomorrow night, theres a warm front that will push through the area and that can bring on a little bit of snow or a bit of rain, Matt Benz, a senior meteorologist for AccuWeather, told the Advance/SILive.com on Monday. Most of the day is expected to be dry, with winds remaining calm throughout the morning. This, however, will shift after 1 p.m., with some stronger winds returning. The wind starts to pick up again tomorrow afternoon into tomorrow evening, that could be pretty blustery for the midweek, shared Benz. The big difference here is that its not going to be as cold, so it may not be quite as harsh as what we saw over the weekend. Since Jan. 23, temperatures have remained generally below average for the region and that trend will continue throughout the week. Precipitation is expected to begin later in the evening around 8 p.m., so possible impacts to rush hour travel are low, however some roads may be slick if temperatures stay at or below freezing. According to Benz, there is no accumulation predicted for Tuesday in the New York City area, but northwestern New Jersey, the Hudson Valley and the Southern Tier have higher chances of snow. Youll see bigger impacts as you head up into the northwest, Benz said. As you head up north of Poughkeepsie, up toward Albany, there could be as much as 1 to 3 inches of snow in that direction. This is expected to be a quick weather event, as the frontal system moves through the region. Any precipitation is expected to end before morning in the city. Over the past two weeks, 17 humanitarian cargoes from 11 partners have arrived at the warehouses of the Ministry of Energy hubs, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal reported. "Over the past two weeks, 17 humanitarian cargoes from 11 partners from Switzerland, Slovakia, Denmark, Canada, Sweden, Azerbaijan, Germany, Austria, Lithuania and Italy have arrived at the warehouses of the Ministry of Energy hubs. During the same period, 774 generators and 40 units of block-modular boiler houses, cogeneration plants, boilers and other equipment were shipped to the regions. We expect the arrival of another 798 generators, 117 transformers and 120 boilers and cogeneration plants," Shmyhal wrote in the Telegram channel following the results of the meeting of the Headquarters on the elimination of the consequences of the emergency situation in the energy sector. He stressed that the situation with electricity supply remains difficult. Energy workers continue to restore facilities hit by Russia on the night of February 7. The damage is significant. Shmyhal also added that on Sunday, February 8, the largest daily volume of electricity imports was recorded. This helped to maintain the system after massive Russian attacks and reduce the deficit. "We are working on comprehensive solutions, in particular, on the launch of additional generation capacities. The work is progressing according to the established schedules. In particular, today we expect the launch of an additional 9 MW of capacity in Kyiv," the minister summed up. Advertisement BusinessMarketsWorld markets Opinion The looming D-Day that has sent shivers through Wall Street Stephen Bartholomeusz Senior business columnist February 9, 2026 11:56am February 9, 2026 11:56am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Since the launch of OpenAIs ChatGPT more than three years ago, most of the focus has been on the potential of artificial intelligence to disrupt, with not that much thought or action devoted to those that would be disrupted. That changed last week. The convulsions that gripped the US sharemarket last week were triggered by the release of new tools for Anthropics Claude AIs chatbot that are designed to automate a range of tasks in a number of service industries, notably legal and data services. OpenAI faces serious competition for the first time in the three years since it launched ChatGPT. AP They were immediately seen as an existential threat to software businesses, particularly software as a service businesses, with stocks seen as exposed to that AI-generated disruption tumbling. That wasnt, however, the only contributor to a tumultuous week for AI-exposed or related stocks. Advertisement Related Article Software AI is eating software, and its cost Atlassian duo $34.6 billion The companies that are the engine room for AI the handful of mega tech companies building the large language models and data centres lost nearly $US800 billion ($1.14 trillion) of market capitalisation last week after Amazon disclosed that its capital expenditures this year were expected to total about $US200 billion, with a heavy emphasis on AI investments. Last year Amazon spent $US135 billion. With Googles parent, Alphabet, saying its capex would be $US185 billion, Facebooks Meta targeting $US135 billion, Microsoft more than $US100 billion and Oracle $US50 billion, the so-called hyperscalers will spend more than $US670 billion this year, or more than 2 per cent of the US GDP. That number doesnt include spending by the bigger unlisted AI vehicles like OpenAI, Anthropic or xAI, or the host of others providing services and capital to support the rollout of AI and its infrastructure. There were, therefore, two quite disparate influences on the market last week. Advertisement One was the sudden realisation that AI as a disruptor would actually disrupt, potentially wiping out large swaths of existing industries and their value or at least taking a very large bite out of their revenues and value and the other was a more emphatic response to the awareness that developed last year that them scramble to dominate AI is getting so expensive that it is raising a question mark over its sustainability. Anthropics release of its plug-ins was a demonstration of AIs emerging substance. The reaction to Amazons capital spending plans was an amplification of investors fears that the ever-escalating spending required to realise the hyperscalers AI ambitions would result in ever-diminishing returns to existing investors. The cracks are widening on Wall Street. Marija Ercegovac Those realisations make this year a critical one for AI and the companies capitalising a potentially transformative technology with spending that is now nearing, or indeed-outstripping, even the massive legacy cash flows of the mega-techs. Anthropic has demonstrated the potential of AI to abruptly undermine the economics of long-established sectors, with implications for not just for equity investors, but credit providers. Debt held against the perceived security of strong and stable cash flows from software as a service provider, for instance, suddenly doesnt look as secure. Advertisement For investors in the hyperscalers, their dominance of asset and capital-light activities and the massive cash flows they generated might be enabling them to fund their AI investments, but it is also transforming them into capital-intensive businesses, with no certainty as to what the potential returns might be, if they materialise, or when they might eventuate on the scale required to justify the investments. The more questioning approach to AI that began developing last year has now morphed into something of a wake-up call for investors. Related Article Analysis AI The dark side of AI weighs on the stock market after tech plunge Instead of seeing AI as either a transformative technology, with its pioneers all prospective winners, the response to the Anthropic release and Amazons spending budget shows investors are becoming more discriminating and recognising that there will be both winners and losers from the adoption of AI and that the risk-reward equation for the hyperscalers is evolving rapidly as the capital expenditures balloon. The risks are growing rapidly in line with the spending, but the nature and scale of the rewards, despite the potential impact and implications of Anthropics new tools, remain opaque, and it remains uncertain whether any or all of the hyperscalers would actually emerge as winners for their investors even if AI were to live up to its potential. Advertisement What is obvious from the way the capex budgets for AI investments have exploded in the past three years is that all the major participants in the frenzy are becoming more vulnerable because they are increasingly dependent on access to external capital. Even the hyperscalers are now tapping debt markets to fund an AI spending spree that is shaping as one of, if not the biggest, industry investment programs in history. The more questioning approach to AI that began developing last year has now morphed into something of a wake-up call for investors. Should credit providers become leery, or equity providers decide the potential rewards either dont compensate for the risks, or that those rewards are too distant to invest today, or the demand for capital is greater than the ability or willingness of the markets to supply it to a single sector, the financial and economic consequences would be destructive and traumatic. Theres also a more prosaic challenge for those now committed too deeply to pull back on their AI commitments. Advertisement The scramble to build data centres is already starting to inflate construction costs in the US. It is already having an impact on electricity prices. The centres energy and water requirements are outstripping existing supply, while new supply could take years to build. Not all those companies pursuing their AI ambitions can be winners, so some differentiation is required. Bloomberg Some of the physical infrastructure and inputs required to validate the enormous sums being poured into AI may therefore provide their own constraints on the financial returns. The scale of capital and infrastructure requirements suggests there is a compelling case for a level of consolidation of the sector that goes well beyond the current circular, incestuous and, in some instances, illusionary nature of some of the funding. AI euphoria, as some have characterised much of the period since the ChatGPT launch, is giving way to a more discerning and pragmatic attitude by capital providers. Not all those companies pursuing their AI ambitions can be winners, so some differentiation is required. Advertisement Related Article Analysis AI This AI bot made me do my own expenses, then bragged about helping Equally, even if only some of those ambitions are realised, there will be losers, so existing business models even those of the most technology-driven companies perhaps especially those will need to be evaluated for their vulnerability to AI. The disruptive impact of AI and its coincidence with the investor backlash against the scale of capital commitments being made to develop is pushing the sector rapidly towards a critical moment, one where the question marks over its impacts and the sustainability of the spending become clearer. Last weeks events suggest that moment may not be too far away. The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the days trading. Get it each weekday afternoon. Advertisement Review Eating outCarlton North Beloved Geralds Bar has been transplanted to another iconic site. Has its soul survived? The artwork and ephemera are familiar, the owners are the same, the olives and anchovies and free crusty bread are still on offer. But this big, new iteration is a dramatic contrast to the original. Besha Rodell February 10, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A 1 / 9 Inside Geralds Bar 2.0, in the former Enoteca Sileno site. Eddie Jim 2 / 9 Geralds barflies might recognise some of the knick-knacks. Jason South 3 / 9 Spaghetti with mussels. Eddie Jim 4 / 9 Raw snapper with cultured cream. Eddie Jim 5 / 9 Bonito with sauce vierge. Eddie Jim 6 / 9 Beetroot showered in mimolette cheese. Eddie Jim 7 / 9 Honey madeleines with hazelnut cream. Eddie Jim 8 / 9 The bar area of Geralds Bar 2.0. Jason South 9 / 9 The courtyard and its grape vine canopy. Eddie Jim Previous Slide Next Slide 14.5 / 20 Critics' Pick How we score European$$$$ In considering the new era of Geralds Bar, it is almost impossible to avoid falling into the thinking of a compare-and-contrast essay. Where once there was this, now there is that: a small storefront compared with a huge blocky behemoth; creaky floorboards in contrast to an expanse of black studded rubber; clubby intimacy thats now impossible, giving way to the harried professionalism of a large busy restaurant. The original Geralds Bar on Rathdowne Street in North Carlton existed as a bastion of cool for 19 years, considered by many (including myself) to be one of the best bars in the country, an oh-so-Melbourne institution that helped to define the modern era of Australian wine bars. That iteration closed in October, making way for a new Geralds, in the former Enoteca Sileno space (originally the Rising Sun Hotel) a few blocks away on Lygon Street. It feels both beside the point (because its so obvious) and also necessary (because its so obvious) to discuss, but theres a decent dose of grief in visiting this new iteration of the venue. Advertisement Geralds barflies might recognise some of the knick-knacks. Jason South It is not the old Geralds. The artwork and ephemera are there, including a poster advertising photographer David Baileys Birth of the Cool exhibition that features a young Michael Caine captured in black-and-white. Owners Gerald Diffey and Mario Di Ienno are there, the olives and anchovies and good, crusty (and still free) bread are there. Is the soul there? Its very hard to say. Soul is as difficult to manufacture as it is to quantify. And often, it takes time to manifest. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up In pushing past that grief, I will attempt to take this new version on its own terms. If it opened without the spectre of its former self looming quietly in the periphery, how would it be received? Very well, probably. You can absolutely still come here for meats and cheeses and tinned fishies, but the rest of the offering is better than ever. Diffey and Di Ienno have brought on Matthew Podbury in the kitchen, who joins long-time chef Pete Savage. Podbury most recently was owner-chef at Geelongs excellent La Cachette (RIP), but before that he worked in fine dining restaurants in France and England. Advertisement That influence is palpable on the current Geralds menu: where the food has leaned a little Spanish in the past, the current menu has some more modern French and British elements, including a mutton dish that wouldnt be out of place on an upscale pub menu. Raw snapper with cultured cream. Eddie Jim You can absolutely still come here for meats and cheeses and tinned fishies, but the rest of the offering is better than ever. The quail scotch egg comes with Cumberland sauce, a British condiment made of port, dried fruits and mustard. Raw snapper sits atop cultured cream punctuated by sweet gooseberries. Golden beetroot is sliced thin and showered with vibrant orange mimolette cheese, its zappy sharpness sitting in charming contrast to the sweet, earthy vegetable. Bonito is served with sauce vierge, a lemon and olive number that was a staple of French nouvelle cuisine. Here it has an almost herbaceous floral quality, a more-than-the-sum-of-its-parts otherworldliness. Spaghetti with mussels. Eddie Jim Advertisement I felt similarly about a hand extruded spaghetti, dotted with shelled mussels and bathed in a cider-based sauce. Punctuated with slivers of fresh chilli, it packed far more flavour and personality than its simple ingredients might imply. There are honey madeleines for dessert, warm and pliant and served with fluffy hazelnut cream. The wine offering is not much changed (not much, at least, from the more recent list-focused program, rather than the freewheeling youll-drink-whats-open approach of the first 15 or so years of the place). Theres a lot of great value if you know how to look, and lots of people who will tell you where to look if you need help. Service is greener, more harried, but still friendly and smart. There are things that this venue is doing that would have been impossible in the old space. You can now make a booking, or hold a function here, and as this review was going to press, the venue announced an adjacent experience that theyre calling The Parlour, which comprises a more formal dining room and a $145 per person set menu. (It launches this weekend, February 14.) The courtyard and its grape vine canopy. Eddie Jim Advertisement Theres a large outdoor patio, canopied with grapevines, which will grow into itself despite the corporate pub vibes of the black plastic chairs. Like I said, soul takes time. And honestly? Despite our romantic notions, its almost impossible to make money in a space as small as the original Geralds. Scale is everything; private events pay the bills. We all want that small, romantic, perfect open-all-the-time bar/restaurant in our lives, but the economics of such an endeavour are maddening. Ive taken up room at the original Geralds bar while drinking affordable wine and eating olives and free bread enough times to understand how that model might not make sense for these operators any longer. The grief over the loss of that experience is real. But theres plenty to love about the new Geralds, not least of which is the potential that these good folks might actually make some money. In time, it may even come to feel as lived in, as warm, and as integral to the city as its predecessor. The rebirth of cool, indeed. Advertisement The low-down Atmosphere: Somewhere between an upscale pub and a wine bar, with all the nautical/Australiana/rocknroll ephemera in place Go-to dishes: Beetroot and mimolette ($24); raw snapper with cultured cream ($28); bonito with sauce vierge ($34) Drinks: Classic and signature cocktails, Euro-centric wine list perfect for wine snobs and casual drinkers alike Cost: About $190 for two, excluding drinks Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. Advertisement Tips & adviceThe cut You wont muck it up: The basic formula for grilling great steak every time From the most budget-friendly cuts to prized rib-eye, Colombian chef Juan Berbeo shares his expert, easy-to-remember tips for cooking tender, juicy steak. Dani Valent February 10, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A For the quintessential taste, smell and sense of summer, its hard to beat a sizzling steak on the grill but which cuts should you wrap your tongs around, and whats the best way to cook them? Colombian chef Juan Berbeo has been butchering and cooking beef since he could reach the kitchen bench. Back home in the Colombian market town of Fusagasuga, his family regularly caters for crowds of up to 5500 at community grill fests. Juan Berbero knows a thing or 100 about cooking (and eating) steak. Eddie Jim The numbers arent quite as staggering at Berbeo Bar and Grill in Melbournes Docklands, but Juan Berbeo has built a loyal following for his expertly butchered cuts and precision grilling. Drawing on a lifetime of professional butchery and fireside experience, Berbeo shares his essential guide to navigating different cuts, his foolproof formula for the perfect sear, and the signature marinade that elevates good meat to greatness. Advertisement The cuts The best recipes from Australia's leading chefs straight to your inbox. Sign up The cow is not just a rib-eye and a loin, says Berbeo. Looking at different cuts is a way of appreciating the actual animal. These are some of the best cuts for barbecuing, and basic tips for cooking them. Eye fillet medallions (tenderloin) A more expensive cut that pays you back in tenderness. Choose fillets that are 2cm-3cm thick. You can have eye fillet blue (extra rare), so you could cook these for just one-and-a-half minutes each side, then rest in a warm place, then cook again for a minute each side. Advertisement Grill the steak for two minutes each side for a flaming good result. Eddie Jim Porterhouse (sirloin or striploin) A tender prime cut thats moderately expensive. Cut thinly, this is a minute steak. But portioned 2cm-3cm thick, you can cook for two to three minutes each side for medium-rare, then rest for six to eight minutes. Cook again for a minute each side, then give the steak a mini-rest before slicing and serving. T-bone The T-bone has the eye fillet on one side of the bone and the porterhouse on the other. Cook as for porterhouse, but also stand the steak up on its end for a few minutes to allow heat to penetrate along the bone. After the first rest, you can carve the fillets from the bone and give them a little grill on the exposed side that was close to the bone. Return the steak to its T-bone shape to serve. Advertisement In general, cook less than you think you should, because you can fix an undercooked steak but not an overcooked one. Chef Juan Berbeo Rump Rump is so versatile and not too expensive; its my favourite cut, Berbeo says. To achieve a perfect medium-rare, he relies on a simple 1cm = 1 minute formula, noting that most home cooks tend to overdo it. In general, cook less than you think you should, he advises. You can always fix an undercooked steak, but you cant fix an overcooked one. Another of his prized picks is the rump cap. While it carries a distinct layer of fat, Berbeo recommends leaving it intact during the cook. To serve, he suggests slicing the steak into strips so that every bite offers a balance of lean meat and rendered fat. As he puts it: Fat is flavour. The inside skirt steak at Berbeo Bar and Grill. Bonnie Savage Advertisement Hanger or skirt While these cuts are more budget-friendly, they offer a deeper, slightly gamey profile for those who value punchy flavour over buttery softness. Because they can be a little firmer, they are best seared over high heat and served closer to medium. These are steaks that reward a bit of chew dont be afraid to use your teeth, as the payoff is a depth of flavour you wont find in more expensive cuts. Chuck eye roll This is an inexpensive cut thats rarely used for grilling, but it can be rewarding. It includes five muscles, which means theres variation through the steak, says Berbeo. It can be a bit chewy, with sections of fat that crisp as you cook. It is best served medium to medium-well done. Juan Berbeo says resting the steak before serving allows the muscle fibres to relax. Eddie Jim Advertisement The chefs formula: The 1cm rule For foolproof results every time, Berbeo relies on a simple mathematical approach to heat: one minute of cooking time per centimetre of thickness, per side. For a standard 2cm steak, this translates to two minutes on each side to reach a perfect starting point. The initial sear and rest Once the first round of cooking is complete, Berbeo recommends resting the steak for six to 10 minutes in a warm spot. He suggests using a wire rack to ensure the meat rests evenly. This step is crucial, as it allows the muscle fibres to relax and reabsorb their natural juices, ensuring a tender, succulent finish. The second cook Advertisement To achieve a professional crisscross finish, return the steak to the heat for one final minute per side. By rotating the meat 90 degrees during this stage, you create those signature grill marks. Give it a final, brief rest for just a minute or two before the final serve. Slicing with precision To ensure maximum tenderness, Berbeo notes the importance of cutting against the grain. Identify the direction the fibres are running and use a sharp knife to slice across them perpendicularly, rather than following them. Once cooked, cut the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Eddie Jim A basic seven-word steak recipe to remember Baste (with the marinade, below) and season Grill Rest Quick grill Quick rest Serve Advertisement The marinade In Colombia, the Berbeos dip a spring onion (green onion) in a mixture of oil and beer and use it to brush the meat. Here, Berbeo makes an instant marinade that flavours the steak as well as oiling it. INGREDIENTS 1 bunch spring onions, trimmed and roughly chopped 10 garlic cloves, peeled Advertisement 300ml vegetable oil 150ml white wine 1 tsp cumin powder tsp saffron powder table salt ground black pepper Advertisement METHOD Blitz all ingredients except salt and pepper in a food processor to make a fairly smooth sauce. Brush the sauce liberally on both sides of the steak before grilling. This sauce will keep for a few days in the fridge. Tips for cooking a top steak Make sure your grill is very hot. Allow the steak to come to room temperature before cooking. Use a timer. Resting really matters! If youre a nervous newbie, start with a minute steak. Cook it one minute each side, let it rest for three minutes, then cook it again for 30 seconds each side, says Berbeo. It will be medium-rare or medium: you wont muck it up. Related Article EASY Adam Liaws secret to mastering thick steaks and the biggest barbecue mistake people make 30 mins - 1 hr Related Recipe collection 45 simple, saucy steak recipes Zelenskyy: Coming weeks will be active in working with our partners as always, results are needed Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ Each of Ukraines partners must be aware of their strength, their ability to support Ukraine and protect life, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an evening address on Sunday, February 8. "Air defense missiles are needed every day. Protection from Russian ballistics is needed every day. Today there were ballistics again in the Kyiv region. No country in the world should be left alone and without help in the face of such strikes and such a war. I want to thank everyone who is with Ukraine. The coming weeks will be active in working with our partners. As always, results are needed. There must be results," the president said. He emphasized that currently the necessary logistics are being maintained everywhere. "The Russian army has been striking the railway almost every day this week. Today there was a targeted strike in the Chernihiv region on a train that was supposed to carry people today. The day before that, there were strikes on the railway in the Kharkiv and Dnipro regions. I want to thank everyone who protects the Ukrainian railway and ensures the constant, uninterrupted operation of our Ukrzaliznytsia," the president emphasized. In general, Zelenskyy said, Sunday was almost entirely devoted to restoration in the regions. "The necessary forces of communities, utility services, and energy companies are involved everywhere. The State Emergency Service of Ukraine - in addition to real assistance in all regions, which is already being provided - is also forming reserve forces. These are consolidated energy groups that will be able to be quickly connected in addition to the already existing forces. Ukrzaliznytsia crews are also working, more than forty crews, and the number will be increased to sixty - they are being involved specifically for work in the capital," he said. According to the president, the most difficult situation is currently in Kyiv by most indicators. This applies to both electricity and heating. Naftogaz will also increase the number of crews helping Kyiv. "The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine ensures the operation of a sufficient number of heating points today: more than two hundred such points in Kyiv, and almost nine thousand people have applied per day. The heat package program is working, and as of now, almost 40,000 packages have been issued in those areas where the need is greatest this week," Zelenskyy pointed out. A standalone plan to help end violence towards Indigenous women and children will bring about real change, advocates say. The federal government on Tuesday unveiled its 10-year plan to address Indigenous family, domestic and sexual violence, which aims to address disproportionate rates experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. The plan will see more than $218 million spent over the next four years to go towards a national network of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to provide specialised support services in Indigenous communities. Among the programs are mobile teams in remote areas to help families after violent incidents and provide emergency accommodation, along with outreach programs for men and boys to help change behaviour and attitudes towards women. VACCA chief executive Aunty Muriel Bamblett and Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek. Alex Ellinghausen Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said the specialised programs would be able to make tangible changes. This plan builds on decades of work, and it builds on decades of calls from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, who have told us that solutions that are designed by them and delivered by them in their communities will make the biggest difference, she told reporters in Canberra. That extra funding will deliver new services, for example, helping women trapped in small, remote locations get to safety if they need to leave a violent relationship. Indigenous women are seven times more likely than non-Indigenous women to be killed by their partner and 27 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence. In regional communities, the rate is even higher, with Indigenous women 41 times more likely to be hospitalised as a result of family violence. Aunty Muriel Bamblett, a co-chair of the steering committee behind the 10-year plan and CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency, said the strategy would be critical in addressing the disparity. Systems have to change: the court processes, the policing, the way justice is implemented, the way that housing and homelessness, [the] child protection system, all of those things change, she told reporters. This plan is the first plan thats actually written by us, for us, that will bring about real change. Chief executive of Indigenous advocacy group SNAICC, Catherine Liddle, said the plan would help support families. We know that child removal is often a consequence of unaddressed harm so preventing violence is an important factor in reducing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children entering the out-of-home care system, she said. A child protection system that responds after violence has occurred is not enough. Safety starts earlier, with family support, healing and culturally grounded programs that keep children connected to family and community. 13YARN 13 92 76 Lifeline 13 11 14 AAP Remove items from your saved list to add more. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Save this video for later Add videos to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Methanol-poisoning victims' parents slam $185 fine for Laos hostel staff The families of two Melbourne teenagers who died of methanol poisoning in Laos have slammed the $185 fine handed to the staff who served their deadly drinks. New Zealand mosque shooter seeks to discard his guilty pleas The man who killed 51 Muslim worshipers at two mosques in New Zealands deadliest mass shooting is seeking have his guilty pleas discarded. Advertisement Dozens of protesters have been arrested in violent clashes with police as thousands demonstrated against visiting Israeli President Isaac Herzog, hours after a court rejected a bid to strip police of enhanced powers granted during his time in Sydney. The crowd on Monday night, estimated at 6000, waved Palestinian flags and held signs critical of Herzog as they surrounded Town Hall, before 27 were arrested, 10 of them for allegedly assaulting police. In a press conference late Monday night, NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna claimed those arrested were caught up in a contagion of groupthink. Officers were being threatened, jostled and assaulted, and we had to enact powers to move that crowd on and direct them out of the CBD, McKenna said. Advertisement It led to a number of melees, rolling fights at times, and violent behaviour from members of that crowd, he said. Punches were thrown and capsicum spray was used on dozens of demonstrators as police moved the crowd away. Others were thrown to the ground, and some were trampled as police officers and horses pushed the crowd towards Bathurst Street. The clashes came as protesters sought to march towards NSW Parliament, while police blocked the crowd and ordered them to disperse. Protesters helped each other flush their eyes, while others were pinned to the ground or dragged into police vans. Advertisement In the moments before the rally descended into chaos and violence, Palestine Action Group (PAG) spokesman Josh Lees addressed the angry crowd. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Herzog visit as it happened: Protesters rally outside Sydney police station after nine charged following chaotic scenes in CBD; Police claim actions justified as Minns defends response Were going to take back our streets and demand freedom, he declared. People are getting arrested and pepper sprayed in front of us this is a bloody outrage. Lees told the Herald people were bashed and attacked by police as they tried to leave after being told to disperse. Advertisement The police just started charging in with horses and pepper spray and [were] bashing people and arresting people, and they were telling everyone to disperse, but they couldnt go anywhere because they were boxed in on all sides, he said. All they had to do was facilitate a march. McKenna said he witnessed the restraint of the police, and protesters were given more than enough time to disperse. Police and protesters clashed at Town Hall, leading to numerous arrests. Dean Sewell Lots of people did, in fact, leave, he said. Advertisement Those who didnt leave, if they got caught up in something, well, they made their choice. He accused those who spoke at the event of inciting the crowd and said the previously co-operative relationship police had with the PAG organisers had changed as a result of the evenings disappointing events. Theyve got some work to do now to build some trust back, McKenna said. The group plans to protest outside a Sydney police station on Tuesday afternoon. In video posted to social media, a group of men pausing to pray are dragged away by advancing police. Advertisement The shocking footage was deeply disturbing and entirely unacceptable, the Australian National Imams Council said in a statement. Police are entrusted to protect the community, uphold public safety, and de-escalate tensions, not to interfere with religious worship or inflame an already sensitive situation. Another video showed multiple police throwing punches at a man with his hands raised. People should not judge the videos out of context, on their own too quickly, McKenna said. Advertisement He said he was yet to review police body-worn video of the events. Related Article Updated Bondi shooting We warned of surging antisemitism before Bondi attack, says Israeli president If things need to come out for the right reasons, weve got no problems in sharing, he said. In the context of thousands of people being in a very confined space where leaders get up and say lets do the wrong thing, lets march those officers are in a very vulnerable, precarious position. I absolutely think the police actions were justified tonight, McKenna said. Advertisement NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson, who attended the protest, said police were brutal, unnecessary and violent. I saw young women being thrown against the wall, Aboriginal people detained and tear gas used indiscriminately, she said. Palestine Action Group organiser Josh Lees outside the Supreme Court. Wolter Peeters The police were clearly emboldened to be violent. There is a lot of footage of dreadful police violence. Earlier, protesters held signs labelling the visiting president a war criminal and accusing him of genocide. Isaac you are pure evil, one read. Advertisement Some held bloody dolls representing dead Gazan children. Other signs depicted wanted posters for Herzog, as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Others brandished signs of Premier Chris Minns and Herzog painted with moustaches evoking Hitler. The rally came shortly after the NSW Supreme Court rejected an urgent legal challenge to sweeping powers granted to police for Herzogs visit to Australia. Justice Robertson Wright made orders less than an hour before the planned protest. The NSW government quietly declared Herzogs visit a major event on Friday under legislation typically used to manage crowds at large sporting events. The area declared to be a major event area under the Minns governments declaration. NSW Government Gazette Advertisement It triggered wide-ranging powers for NSW Police, including the ability to shut down parts of a major events area in the Sydney CBD and eastern suburbs, to limit the number of people who can remain in the area, and to conduct searches. The march to parliament was not an authorised route. The major event declaration was not announced publicly until Saturday. Minutes after the court challenge was rejected, Lees said the protest at Town Hall and planned march to Parliament House would go ahead regardless. Australian of the Year Grace Tame condemned Herzogs visit, earlier telling the crowd Australia was a so-called democracy that punishes peaceful protesters like us, but welcomes a war criminal with open arms. Advertisement A man who said, and I quote, there are no innocent civilians in Gaza, Tame said, before leading a chant of From Gadigal to Gaza, globalise the intifada. Labor MPs Dr Sarah Kaine, Cameron Murphy and Stephen Lawrence were at the rally despite Minns invoking the special police powers. Jewish independent journalist Antony Loewenstein told the crowd Israels actions endanger all of us, including Jews. [Herzog] in Israel may be seen as a Labor-left man, believe me, he is an extremist, which is very mainstream in Israel, Loewenstein said. A pro-Palestine protester outside the Supreme Court on Monday. Peter Rae Advertisement It is the first time the sweeping police powers have been used solely for the visit of a foreign dignitary. The Prime Minister of Australia invited another head of state into NSW, so weve got an obligation to protect that person and that was part of the operation tonight, McKenna said. The government said in a media release on Saturday that we cannot allow a situation where mourners, visitors and protesters are brought into close proximity in a way that risks conflict, violence or public disorder. Had it been successful, the challenge to the major events powers would only have removed one source of potential criminal liability for protesters. Israeli President Isaac Herzog (left) and his wife Michal Herzog (centre) with NSW Premier Chris Minns (right) during their visit to Bondi Pavilion. Kate Geraghty Advertisement The PAG has also launched a pending challenge to separate public assembly restrictions, introduced following the Bondi tragedy, which remove legal protections for protesters who block traffic or pedestrians on unauthorised protest routes. Related Article Opinion Israeli-Palestinian conflict Im Jewish. I live in Bondi. But I take no comfort from Herzogs visit David Leser Senior freelance writer While crowds gathered at Town Hall, chanting from the river to the sea, Herzog to the ICC [International Criminal Court], not far away, snipers and a hovering police helicopter prepared for Herzog to arrive at a different ICC, the International Convention Centre, where he addressed an event organised by the Zionist Federation of Australia. At the request of police the crowd at the Sydney ICC were held in place for 30 minutes at the end of the event, in an attempt to keep supporters of the Israeli president separate from protesters in the CBD outside. Herzog arrived in Sydney on Monday morning and is also expected to visit Canberra and Melbourne as part of the visit. Advertisement Loading His invitation came after the Bondi Beach massacre on December 14. The attack, which targeted the Jewish community, killed 15 people and injured dozens more on the first night of Hanukkah. The visit prompted pro-Palestine activists to prepare for a nationwide day of protests to coincide with Herzogs arrival. A United Nations commission of inquiry found Herzog and other Israeli officials were liable to prosecution for incitement to genocide for comments made after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas. Be the first to know when major news happens. Sign up for breaking news alerts on email or turn on notifications in the app. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met privately with families of victims of the Bondi massacre at a synagogue on Tuesday night, after publicly defending his decision to invite Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia and decrying devastating scenes of violence between police and protesters. President Herzog joined Albanese and members at the Chabad of Bondi synagogue, reading Hebrew prayers and embracing relatives of the 15 people killed in the December 14 terrorist attack. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left), and Israeli President Isaac Herzog attend a ceremony to honour the victims of the Bondi terrorist attack during the Presidents state visit to Australia. AAP POOL The small temple at the heart of the synagogue was packed to capacity but some seats remained empty. They belonged to Reuven Morrison, who had occupied a place in the front row, Tibor Weitzen two rows back, and Alex Kleytmann, next to an aisle at the rear. Albanese read aloud the names of the three men and all of the other victims as the families of those killed stood up. The terrorists sought to instil fear in the Jewish people we will respond with renewed Jewish pride, Herzog told the congregation. They sought to divide our people with religious hate we will respond with solidarity between all people of moral conscience of all faiths. They sought to turn our festivals into mourning we will come together, determined and unified, to celebrate our traditions, our heritage, our people. Read more: Jewish solidarity will overcome terrorists division, Herzog says Advertisement NationalNSWLandslide Looters are raiding Lauras crumbling home. Shes powerless to stop them Jessica McSweeney February 10, 2026 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Laura Jackel took pride in making her 104-year-old home a sanctuary for her children, a place full of memories. Now her house is a danger zone and the ground beneath it is probably worthless. Jackel was one of 16 families from New Lambton who were forced to leave their homes in May last year when the ground beneath began to shift in a landslip. Many, including Jackel, have had their houses repeatedly looted by thieves even while they are prevented from entering their own homes, which will almost certainly be demolished. Laura Jackel is unable to enter her home in the landslip zone, but the rules havent deterred looters. Steven Siewert Our homes are all in danger zones, she said. Weve had our home looted three times. Its really hard to describe the kind of stress that this has put on us, and the cloud over our family. Nine months later, Jackel and her neighbours say they have been caught in the middle of a dispute between the City of Newcastle and the NSW government. The council says it needs more funding support from the state government to help the victims, but the minister responsible says the council needs to take the lead. Advertisement You have to hope that we wont be in this position in five years time, Jackel said. Sometimes that thought keeps me awake at night. Unlike a typical flood or bushfire, when a home is condemned but victims can rebuild, landslips can make the entire block of land unsuitable for building work. Until a geotechnical report from the council is finalised, residents will not know for sure if they will ever return, but most have accepted its unlikely. Adding to the stress of home owners is a looming deadline on their insurance support come May, many will be left making mortgage repayments on destroyed homes on unusable land. Sixteen homes were impacted by the New Lambton landslip in May 2025. City of Newcastle While other major natural disasters, including the Lismore floods, came under the remit of the Reconstruction Authority, the landslip was considered by the state government to be a local council issue. City of Newcastle in September asked Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin for an act of grace payment of $50,000 to refund the victims for rates paid for the year. Advertisement Two days before Christmas, the request was denied. Providing an act of grace payment to a small group of properties without extending similar assistance to all impacted households would create inequity and is not feasible within current policy or funding frameworks, Saffin wrote in a letter to the council. Nine months on, a geotechnical report is yet to be released. City of Newcastle A previous request by the council for the minister to direct the Reconstruction Authority to take charge of the disaster was also denied. A spokesperson for Saffin said the government was waiting to see technical reports from the council to determine next steps, but the council is not satisfied with that response. Advertisement We need the NSW government to step up now and provide meaningful financial support for residents while this catastrophe is sorted out, Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. Editor's pick City life McDonalds goes for seconds in Newtown trading bid Greens councillor Siobhan Isherwood also said it should be the state governments responsibility, saying there is no defensible reason why support would be denied. Until a geotechnical report is produced, which is expected later in the month, neither the council nor the state government can agree who is in charge. The Reconstruction Authority is a billion-dollar authority with a clear role in helping the NSW community recover from disaster, so they should be leading the charge when it comes to stepping in to help the people impacted by this disaster in New Lambton, Greens MP and spokesperson for Planning Sue Higginson said. A spokesperson for the Reconstruction Authority said the agency is assisting and has helped with some emergency accommodation requests. Advertisement Newcastle City Council is leading the recovery effort, given its responsibility for coordinating local operations, the spokesperson said. Due to the complexity of the landslip, a series of geological and engineering assessments are required to determine the sites safety and future use. These assessments will guide councils decisions moving forward. For home owners facing an uncertain future, the finger-pointing is making matters worse. It leaves us in limbo while agencies debate who is responsible, home owner David Couri said. Weve felt like the problem to be managed is us residents, rather than the problem being the houses that fell down the hill. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Save this article for later Remove items from your saved list to add more. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. The search for a fisherman missing off the Queensland coast since Friday morning has been suspended. Ash Haighs boat was found floating off the coast hours after he was meant to return to the Runaway Bay Marina on the northern end of the Gold Coast. Police recovered the boat 37 kilometres out to sea about 2am on Friday. On Saturday afternoon an inactive Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) registered to the 44-year-old was found 26 kilometres off Ballina, in NSW. Nine News has identified the missing man as 44-year-old Ash Haigh. Facebook The search, which had included four boats and an aircraft, then switched to a recovery phase. On the night of February 9 (from Sunday evening), the enemy attacked Ukraine with 11 ballistic missiles, as well as 149 strike UAVs, missiles. Some 23 UAVs struck at 15 locations, according to the Air Force of Ukraine. "On the night of February 9 (from 17:30 on February 8), the enemy attacked with 11 Iskander-M ballistic missiles from the Bryansk region, as well as 149 strike UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas type and drones of other types from the directions: Kursk, Orel, Bryansk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Shatalovo Russia, TOT Donetsk, Gvardiyske - TOT AR Crimea, about 90 of them Shahed UAVs," the message on Telegram says. According to preliminary data, as of 09:30, air defense systems shot down/suppressed 116 enemy UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas and drones of other types. In addition, some Iskander-M ballistic missiles were intercepted and did not reach their targets. Missile hits and 23 strike UAVs were recorded at 15 locations, as well as the fall of downed ones (fragments) at six locations. Advertisement NationalQueenslandCourts Father found in shower with cigarette in his hand after house fire that killed boy Cloe Read Updated February 9, 2026 4:50pm ,first published 2:57pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Moments after two Queensland boys were badly injured in a house fire, police found their father nearby having a shower and smoking a cigarette, with a dazed expression and unresponsive to their questions, a court has heard. On Monday, an inquest began into the 2017 case, in which one of the boys died after suffering burns to 95 per cent of his body. The family cannot be identified for legal reasons. One of the boys died the day after the house fire in 2017. QFES The boys had been living on the rural property when the fire ripped through one of two houses on the land. Advertisement Two police officers made their way to the scene, overcoming problems with communication and reception. Sergeant Peter Rumford told the court he and his partner, Senior Constable Andrew Bell, made it to the property quickly. Once on the property, Rumford and Bell were flagged down by the boys grandmother, who told them the pair were badly injured. I remember jumping out of the car as quick as I could, Rumford told the court, recalling how he thought he saw blood on the patio. I also remember hearing, just wailing. It sounded like children, he said, adding it was a sound like nothing he had heard before. Advertisement He recalled that he had been at the property some weeks earlier for an unrelated matter. He knew the boys father, and had spoken to him previously, he said. Rumford made his way up a set of stairs into the second property, where the children were on a couch, wrapped in a towel or a sheet, and unrecognisable as the same children he had seen before. He asked where the boys father was, and he was told he was in the shower. Thats where I saw [the father] standing in the shower. From memory, he was just sort of standing there, he said. I remember he had a cigarette in his hand ... He had just a dazed, stunned look on his face. I remember seeing he had some burns on his hands and forearms. Maybe even his face a little bit. Advertisement Rumford said he tried to engage in conversation with the father as to what happened. It sticks into my mind that he didnt really respond or provide me any information. When asked about the fathers demeanour, Rumford said: I found it a little bit peculiar why his two sons were screaming and wailing, so to speak, and he was standing in the shower having a cigarette. Rumford said he felt extremely concerned for the boys welfare, and from his initial assessment, the father did not appear to be badly injured. He recalled that the fathers mother had reported seeing her sons property on fire after hearing a loud bang that evening. Advertisement Bell, the other police officer, told the court he recalled speaking to the father, who claimed he had just woken up to find the house on fire. The court heard the father suggested the mother was probably responsible, but said he did not remember anything. Bell said he could not recall anyone attending to the children, and said the father was disconnected and not doing anything a father would normally do, such as calming or reassuring the children. A paramedic, who had been in the job for almost 15 years, told the court the scene was very confronting. I havent been to another job thats been anywhere near as bad as what this one was. The emotional response as I walked in was something I hadnt experienced before, he said. Advertisement He recalled the boys sitting with their knees up to their chests and their heads down. Another paramedic, who was a student at the time, recalled how one boy was quieter and unresponsive, whereas the other was crying and shivering. I can recall the crying and sounds the younger child was making, and I recall them not having any part of their body unburned, she said. Counsel assisting the coroner Kate Juhasz told the court distressing vision of the night showed the boys, but it would not be played to the court. One boy died the following day in Brisbanes childrens hospital. Advertisement Coroner Megan Fairweather is expected to probe several factors, including how the fire started, the family environment and the relationship between the boys parents, and the police investigation. The inquest is scheduled to run until next week. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement Updated NationalVictoriaTragedy Absolute injustice: Melbourne families slam $185 fines after teens methanol poisoning deaths Annika Smethurst Updated February 10, 2026 10:12am ,first published 6:13pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has apologised unreservedly to the families of two Australian teenagers who died of methanol poisoning in Laos, saying it failed to keep them informed about court proceedings that resulted in $185 fines for 10 people. The devastated Melbourne parents described the court outcome as a betrayal and beyond comprehension, and said they felt abandoned by Canberra after learning about the court case and its outcome from British authorities. Mark Jones (left) and Shaun Bowles, the fathers of Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, who died after drinking tainted alcohol in Laos, say they feel utterly betrayed. Jason South Melbourne teenagers Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, were among several foreign tourists who died after unknowingly drinking alcohol contaminated with lethal methanol in the tourist hub of Vang Vieng in November 2024. The pair fell ill at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, which authorities believe was the source of a mass poisoning that killed six, including travellers from the UK, the US and Denmark. Advertisement On January 29, 10 people were convicted in a Laotian court over destruction of evidence and handed suspended sentences along with fines equal to $185 penalties that Morton-Bowles and Jones parents, Samantha Morton and Shaun Bowles and Mark and Michelle Jones, described as extraordinarily weak and an insult. The details of the suspended sentences are not known. Mark Jones said the families were blindsided and the legal outcome had made an unbearable grief even worse. Holly Morton-Bowles (left) and Bianca Jones died after a mass drink poisoning in Laos. We were shocked by the absolute injustice for our girls and the others, Jones said. We have had no correspondence with anyone from the Laos government. We had no idea the court case was going ahead. Our beautiful girls, and the other victims, deserve justice at a bare minimum, and a $185 fine is hardly justice. Advertisement The grieving parents say they were never formally told about the January 29 court case by Australian authorities, and were instead contacted by Sue White, the mother of British victim Simone White, whose government had received details of the proceedings. No one has been charged over the teenagers deaths. After a 20-day appeal period, the 10 people charged with evidence-related offences could be free to leave Laos. Loading Mark Jones said the status of a separate case linked to a local distillery remained unclear. He said he understood Laotian authorities could be difficult to deal with diplomatically, but questioned why other governments appeared to receive updates on the case before Australia. Advertisement The Danish and UK governments are getting information and our government just seems to be quite reactive, he said. Related Article Australians abroad Six tourists died in this village. No one here seems in a hurry to find out why Our government doesnt seem to be able to get information. We feel abandoned. The families of the six victims have described the close yet tragic bond they have, speaking every three weeks to share information as they continue the search for answers. Jones said the last update he had received from Australian officials was in late January when he was told Australias ambassador to Laos, Megan Jones, was meeting with local officials to clarify information shared by the Danish government. Advertisement Late on Monday night, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement saying it apologises unreservedly for failing to keep the families informed. The Department prides itself in its commitment to consular service and to ensuring that the interests of consular clients and their families are paramount, the statement said. On this occasion, we fell short of our aspiration. Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones were both 19 when they died. 60 Minutes Morton-Bowles father said the modest fines were an insult to his daughters life and he wanted justice for her and her best friend, Bianca Jones. It was incredibly disappointing but at the same time not surprising considering the way the Laos government has treated us over the past 14 months, Shaun Bowles said. They seem to just want to have it done and show that people have been held accountable and be done with it. But thats not justice. Advertisement Related Article Australians abroad Bianca and Holly were poisoned while partying in Laos. They lay alone for 24 hours Bowles said the evidence-tampering conviction should lead investigators further. But I struggle to see from here how we will get the justice our girls deserve. As well as accountability in Laos, both fathers called for stronger action from the Australian government, including an immediate diplomatic intervention from Canberra to pressure authorities to provide a formal explanation of the investigation and court proceedings. How are the Danish and English governments getting to talk to these people, and we are not getting information from our government? Bowles said. Advertisement We feel let down by our own government. They have failed our families. They have not been able to get basic answers, they have not applied meaningful pressure, and they have allowed our daughters deaths to be quietly brushed aside. We are out of options. We have done as much as we can; the only people that can do any more for us are our government. Crowds at Bianca Jones funeral at Mentone Girls Grammar in 2024. Joe Armao Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones both would have turned 21 this year birthdays their families will mark without them. Mark Jones said he wants people to remember the pair as beautiful, funny, intelligent and engaging young women, rather than the circumstances of their deaths. Advertisement We are never going to see them graduate from university, get married or have babies, if thats what they wanted to do, he said. We want people to smile when they remember them. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones families had endured an unimaginable loss and the Australian government was doing everything to support them in their pursuit of justice. Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos, where Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles stayed. Facebook I have made it clear to my Lao counterpart that Australia expects full accountability, Wong said. I have also made it clear that charges should reflect the seriousness of the tragedy which left six people dead including Holly and Bianca. We continue to press Lao authorities on the cases relating to Holly and Biancas deaths, and we will continue to support Holly and Biancas families at this distressing time. Advertisement Related Article Alcohol Even a tiny dose can kill: The lethal brew at centre of suspected Laos mass poisoning Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Senator Michaelia Cash called on the Albanese government to immediately explain why it did not keep the families informed about the case. Its a disgrace that Holly and Biancas families found out about the outcome of a case in relation to their daughters deaths through information from a foreign government, she said. These sentences appear to be manifestly inadequate. The Laotian embassy in Canberra has been contacted for comment. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement Exclusive NationalVictoriaSchools States accounting tricks shortchange schools by $1.37 billion Noel Towell February 10, 2026 5:31am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The state government is using accounting tricks to shortchange Victorias public schools of nearly $1.4 billion, a leading education advocacy group claims. A two-year funding deal signed late last year between the Victorian and federal governments is supposed to mean the state pays at least 70 per cent of the agreed benchmark funding level for each of its 1600 public schools. Save our Schools claims the state government has used exemptions and carve-outs written into a national agreement to reduce the money it spends on schools. Simon Schluter But advocacy group Save our Schools claims the state government used exemptions and carve-outs written into the agreement to reduce the money it spent on schools by $671 million last year and $705 million this year a total of $1.37 billion leaving a funding shortfall of more than 14 per cent on the minimum standard agreed to by the federal and state governments. The Schooling Resource Standard, developed by the Gonski review of school funding in 2011, sets the benchmark amount needed to be spent to provide a good education to a student. Advertisement The standard amount this year is $14,467 per primary student and $18,180 for a high schooler, with top-up amounts available based on a schools remoteness or disadvantage. All states and territories have agreed with the Commonwealth to fund their schools to at least 100 per cent of the standard by 2034, but Victoria has not settled its final terms of that deal with the federal government. Victoria and Canberra have signed a two-year deal securing 90 per cent of the funding benchmark to state schools in 2025 and 2026, with the Commonwealth paying 20 per cent and the state paying 70 per cent. Advertisement But in a withering assessment of the deal, Save Our Schools said the Victorian government was claiming a series of deductions and offsets to significantly cut its contributions to the funding mix. Related Article Exclusive Private schools Private school with $85 million pool gets all-clear for federal cash The agreement allows the state government to reduce the amounts it pays to schools by up to 4 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard to reflect indirect funding of the educational system through depreciation of capital assets or the financing of educational agencies. Save Our Schools national convenor Trevor Cobbold said the indirect funding carve-outs were an accounting trick. With the indirect funding discounts stripped out, Cobbold said Victorias true contribution would this year be less than 66 per cent of the standard. Advertisement Based on those figures, Victorias public schools would be the second most cash-starved in the nation, with only the Northern Territorys public schools faring worse. The agreement allows the state to deduct the cost of services provided to public schools by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority and the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority, and subsidised school transport, but not those services provided to private schools, according to Cobbolds analysis. The former Productivity Commission economist, who has campaigned for decades for a fairer deal for public education, said the carve-outs blatantly discriminate against government schools. It provides yet another resource advantage for private schools, Cobbold said. The governments are prepared to continue to underfund public schools and use accounting tricks to defraud them, but they will not touch private school entitlements. Advertisement Related Article Exclusive Education The accounting tricks shortchanging public schools billions of dollars every year The Premier, Jacinta Allan, and the Education Minister, Ben Carroll, like to refer to Victoria as the education state. This is a complete sham. If anything, Victoria is a failed education state. Pasi Sahlberg, an internationally renowned education expert at the University of Melbourne, said the indirect funding discounts slashed billions from the education spend across the nation, and called for them to end as soon as possible. The funding gap is significant, and it would be much faster to fix if these funding tricks could be abolished, Sahlberg said. When Anthony Albanese announced that public schools would be fully funded, many of us thought that full funding meant 100 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard. But, with these funding tricks of up to 4 per cent, it sounds like a little bit less, but it is still significant. Advertisement Related Article Exclusive Victorian Parliament Victoria secretly slices $2.4b from public schools, delays funding promise Victoria signed up in November 2023 to the long-term goal of raising the nations government schools minimum funding levels to 100 per cent of the standard by 2034, with the payments split 75-25 between the state and Commonwealth. But a secret decision by the Victorian government revealed by this masthead last year delayed the step-up in its agreed contributions to 2031. That decision would leave the states schools about $3 billion worse off than they would have been had the Allan government stuck to its agreement to reach 75 per cent funding by 2028. As negotiations on a final version of the long-term deal continue between the state and Commonwealth, an interim two-year arrangement was signed in December by Carroll and his federal counterpart, Jason Clare, to provide about $13 billion to the states public schools in 2025. Carroll responded to Save Our Schools criticism of the agreement by defending the Labor governments record on school funding. Advertisement Our priority is and has always been that every child, no matter where they live, has access to a world-class education for free in a Victorian government school backed by full and fair funding, Carroll said. Editor's pick Exclusive Epstein fallout Jeffrey Epstein, the rockstar physicist and the Australian whistleblower Victoria is the education state and our nation-leading NAPLAN results are the proof. Victorian students are not only the top performing in the country but also performing better than at any other time on record. A spokesperson for Clare said the deal with Victoria meant the states schoolchildren would be fully funded, eventually. The agreement puts all public schools in Australia on a path to full and fair funding, they said. Advertisement In December, Victoria signed a bilateral agreement for the initial two years. We will continue to negotiate with Victoria this year towards a bilateral agreement to cover the full 10-year period. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here. Advertisement NationalWAExtreme weather Tropical Cyclone Mitchell expected to make landfall off WA coast today Holly Thompson February 9, 2026 1:06pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A A severe tropical cyclone is heading for the north-west coast of Western Australia, with heavy rain and wild wind gusts expected despite the storm being downgraded to a category one system. Overnight, Tropical Cyclone Mitchell uprooted trees and street signs as it passed Exmouth, with 56mm of rain hitting the popular tourist town over the past 24 hours. Power supply to about 995 homes and business has been affected in parts of Exmouth, with crews working to restore it as quickly as possible. The system is forecast to move towards Carnarvon on Monday, where it will make landfall, around 2pm, and is expected to result in abnormally high tides. Advertisement Emergency warnings remain in place between Coral Bay and Minilya Roadhouse, and north of Ningaloo, with residents warned it is now too late to leave and that they should take shelter. There is also an emergency warning in place for south of Minilya Roadhouse to north of Wooramel Roadhouse, including Carnarvon. Evacuation centres have been set up at Carnarvon PCYC and the Shark Bay Recreation Centre. Bureau of Meteorology duty forecaster Joey Rawson said the cyclone was moving parallel to the coast and was bringing wind gusts of around 90 kilometres per hour. The storm is weakening which is great news for those living in the region, but we would urge the community to keep up to date on the latest changes, he said. Advertisement As the storm moves inland it could continue to bring heavy rainfall between 100 and 150 millimetres along the west Gascoyne coast, likely in isolated falls, before heading towards the Central Wheatbelt. Flood warnings remain in place across the area, with Rawson saying the coastal flooding would flush out quickly, while the rivers were being monitored. WA Premier Roger Cook said also urged the community to be vigilant to changing circumstances. Download the emergency services app. Make sure that you respond to the instructions and the warnings that are given, he said. Our thoughts are now with the people of Carnarvon where Mitchell is currently heading please, everyone in that community, take precautions. Advertisement There is potential for flooding across the Great Northern Highway and other major roads, which could block access to some of the regional towns. For a full list of road closures, and to keep up to date on the cyclones movements, visit emergency.wa.gov.au. Get alerts on breaking news as it happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert. Woman crushed against house by own car A young mother has been seriously injured in the driveway of her Adelaide home after her car rolled forward and pinned her to the side of the house. Advertisement PoliticsQueenslandQueensland government You have to be an Aussie citizen: Details of gun laws revealed, but no word on mental health checks Courtney Kruk Updated February 9, 2026 6:42pm ,first published 12:41pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Queenslanders will need to be Australian citizens to own a gun under changes to firearm legislation set to be introduced in parliament this week. The long-awaited announcement on gun laws came as the Crisafulli government firmly rejected the possibility of a weapons buyback now or in the future despite calls for Queensland to fall in line with a federal proposal. The state government also remained tight-lipped on whether it would introduce a recommendation from the Wieambilla inquest for mandatory mental health checks, promising an update when parliament returns on Tuesday. Premier David Crisafulli announces Queenslands new gun laws. Courtney Kruk Queenslands new gun laws include increased penalties for stealing firearms and unlawfully trafficking, possessing, supplying and modifying weapons, and a new offence penalising the reckless discharge of a weapon on a building or vehicle to crack down on drive-by shootings. Advertisement Premier David Crisafulli said the laws would allow police to deal with terrorists and criminals in the strongest possible way. If youre going to own a gun in this state, you have to be an Aussie citizen, he said. I think most people will overwhelmingly support that as common sense. [These are] the toughest penalties in the country when it comes to clamping down on those who shouldnt have weapons. He insisted Queensland would not repeat what he saw as the federal governments mistakes. Advertisement Ive seen what came out of Canberra, and its been a mess, he said. Related Article Updated Antisemitism Pro-Palestine chants, hate symbols set to be banned in Queensland Following the Bondi terror attack on a Jewish event that killed 15 people and injured dozens more, the Albanese government announced laws to establish a national gun buyback scheme and enforce rigorous background checks for gun owners. Federal legislation to combat antisemitism, hate speech and extremism was also passed in January. The Crisafulli government has consistently said it would not participate in the national buyback as it would not keep guns from terrorists and criminals, and confirmed on Monday the new legislation would not change the number of firearms a gun licensee can have. Advertisement We are dealing with keeping guns out of the hands of terrorists and criminals, and if youre asking me how many weapons I think somebody should have who isnt a fit and proper person, the answer is zero, he said. Related Article Queensland government Mental health checks considered in Queensland gun reforms, minister says Not one or two or three or four zero. And thats what these reforms do. Attorney-general Deb Frecklington called on the Labor opposition for bipartisan support on the laws. We know the state Labor opposition have got one thing in mind, and that is to weaken those criminal laws in this state, Frecklington said. Advertisement However, today Im calling on that bipartisan support because we know that whether its in youth crime, in terrorism or antisemitic behaviour, we as a government cannot repeat the past. On Sunday, the Crisafulli government announced laws to combat antisemitism and terrorism that included tougher penalties on the use of symbols such as swastikas; tougher penalties for intimidation and wilful damage at places of worship; and the criminalisation of slogans such as globalise the intifada and from the river to the sea. Queensland is the only state or territory to ban from the river to the sea, a chant popularised by the pro-Palestine movement amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Legislation in response to the Wieambilla inquest, which could include mandatory mental health checks for gun ownership, will be announced on Tuesday. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. A Brisbane man who spent four years hoping to get his hands on a rare Red Hill home was finally handed the keys on Saturday after splashing a reserve-smashing $2.32 million to get them. Having fallen in love with the striking four-bedroom house at 111 Arthur Terrace during the pandemic, he outmuscled three other bidders in just eight minutes to seal the deal. On a 506 square-metre-block, two-bathroom home is steeped in Brisbane history, featuring bricks from the Cannon Hill stockyards, cupboards from a convent and benchtops crafted out of floor joists from the Treasury Building alongside supporting pillars from Bretts Wharf. Held by a local investor, the home was rented out for $1000 a week and last sold in 2018 for $1.03 million. It might seem incredible, but the median apartment price declined in 19 Sydney suburbs over the past five years, according to the latest Domain House Price Report. Reasons for the falls varied, experts said, with some suburbs experiencing a surge in supply and others contending with decreased demand. Kirribillis unit market has been affected by changes to NSW tenancy laws. Credit: Dylan Coker In some areas, there was an increase in the volume of lower-priced home sales, or a decrease in the volume of higher-priced home sales, bringing the median price down. In small markets, the median price may sometimes bounce around. Price prospects for the suburbs were also mixed. Experts urged buyers to examine the data on a suburb-by-suburb basis. Photo: Red Cross of Ukraine Eleven communities in Kherson region have received equipment for volunteer fire brigades from the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS). "To improve the safety level of territorial communities in Kherson region, the Ukrainian Red Cross Society handed over 20 modern sets of material and technical equipment for volunteer fire brigades," the URCS said on Facebook. A modern set includes a fire shield equipped with tools and primary firefighting equipment. The assistance also included fire nozzles and hoses, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and other equipment. In addition, the URCS provided sets of uniforms for volunteers. The initiative was implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross with support from the Spanish Red Cross and in cooperation with the Kherson Regional Military Administration and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16zUuYLKAU/?mibextid=wwXIfr ~Week of Dialogue Sets the Foundation for Implementation and Long-Term Economic Direction~ PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) successfully concluded its Strategic Economic Workshops and Stakeholder Consultations, held from February 2nd to 6th, 2026, at the Belair Community Center, under the theme Addressing Sint Maartens Crossroads; Charting a New Way Forward. The five-day workshop brought together local and international experts, government representatives, private sector leaders, and community stakeholders to engage in open dialogue on the future of Sint Maartens economy. The initiative marks the beginning of a broader process toward preparing for implementation through the development of a Strategic Economic Plan aimed at strengthening economic stability, diversifying the economy, and ultimately improving the quality of life for the people of Sint Maarten. This week was never meant to be comfortable. It was meant to be real, stated the Honorable Minister of TEATT during her closing remarks. Forward by Design is not a slogan. It is a decision to move from drifting to designing. The true measure of success will not be what was said here, but what we do next. Serving as Master of Ceremonies throughout the week was Rolando Tobias, whose facilitation supported meaningful dialogue and ensured continuity across each days discussions and stakeholder engagement. The workshop unfolded across five thematic days, each addressing a critical component of Sint Maartens economic development. Day One, Setting the Stage and Defining the Path Forward, established the national context and economic realities facing the country, with keynote contributions from Secretary General Miguel de Weever, Bernise Stoffer of RVO, Shervin Frederick of TEATT, and international tourism strategist Vincent Vanterpool Wallace. Discussions focused on aligning short term economic stability with long term transformation goals and strengthening collaboration across institutions. Day Two, The Future of Tourism, Yachting, Safety and Security, was moderated by tourism strategist Jim (James) Hepple and centered on opportunities and risks shaping Sint Maartens tourism future, highlighting the importance of safety, sustainability, and quality of life. Contributions from Chief of Police Carl John, hotelier Emil Lee, Anastacio Baker, Alex Gumbs of Port St. Maarten Group, and Leslie Dickerson, Director of the Nature Foundation, underscored the need for stronger coordination, climate conscious planning, improved mobility, and ensuring that tourism growth remains aligned with community wellbeing. Day Three, Policy and Cross Sector Alignment, focused on strengthening collaboration across ministries and sectors. Presentations addressed economic policy, labor dynamics, health, education, housing, transportation, and competition law, with contributions from local experts including Jessica Rogers, Sharilyn Bryson, Peggy Ann Dros, Fenna Arnell, Kenson Plaisimond, Erin Ellis, and Lucien Wilson. International expertise was also provided by Matthijs Visser from the Netherlands, whose work with Arubas Competition Authority offered insight into fair trade practices and regulatory development. Discussions emphasized that policy cannot exist in silos and that coordinated governance is essential to achieving sustainable outcomes. Day Four, Innovation and Diversification, shifted attention toward emerging sectors and new economic opportunities. Keynote speakers such as Gregory Richardson explored innovation, cybersecurity, and the digital economy, while Brian Deher discussed maritime development within the Blue Economy and Josiah Halley highlighted agricultural potential within the Green Economy. Conversations reinforced that diversification is not about abandoning tourism but strengthening it while deliberately building new lanes for growth. Day Five, Orange Economy and Next Steps, highlighted culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship as drivers of economic growth. The panel discussion, moderated by King Verse, featured Kelvin Hodge James (King James), Bianca Dijkhoff (DJ BB Bad), Zillah Duzon, Mercedes Wyatte (Elektra), Renata de Weever, Clara Reyes, and Pearl Hendrickson. Panelists expressed a shared passion for protecting Sint Maartens culture and creative identity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing local ambassadors, creating meaningful incentives, and shifting from assumptions to genuine engagement by asking, listening, and placing creatives at the center of development conversations. The week concluded with reflections on the next phase of work, emphasizing that consultation must now transition into structured action. The Ministry emphasized that the workshop represents the starting point toward implementation. The insights gathered will now inform stakeholder interviews, policy analysis, and the drafting of a Strategic Economic Plan, which will be presented for further feedback before finalization. The results we saw in 2025, including over 1.6 million cruise passengers and more than 855,000 passenger arrivals, were achieved through collective effort, the Minister noted. But growth must translate into opportunity and quality of life for our people. That is the direction we are building toward. The Ministry recognizes that not everyone was able to attend the sessions throughout the week. Stakeholders, residents, and organizations who wish to provide input are encouraged to remain engaged by contacting the Ministry of TEATT at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Feedback received will be incorporated into the ongoing development of the Strategic Economic Plan. The Ministry extended gratitude to its partners, including TWO, RVO, and the many government departments and stakeholders who supported the initiative, as well as the technical crews, event planners, catering teams, and venue staff who ensured the success of the week. Appreciation was also expressed to every business leader, civil servant, expert, and community stakeholder who participated in shaping the dialogue. This week confirmed that Sint Maarten does not lack ideas or talent. What we need now is alignment, ownership, and execution, the Minister concluded. On Monday we set the stage. This week we aligned. And from here, together, we move forward, by design. PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in a Central Committee meeting on February 9, 2026. The Central Committee meeting, which was adjourned on January 16, 2026, will be reconvened on Monday at 14.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure will be in attendance. The Minister will be returning to Parliament to answer questions posed by the Members of Parliament. The agenda point is: Nature Policy Plan Sint Maarten 2025-2029 (IS/365/2025-2026 dated November 18, 2025) Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the House rules. The House of Parliament is located across from the courthouse in Philipsburg. The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.sx ,and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Finance, Hon. Marinka J. Gumbs, attended the 10-year anniversary celebration of Audit Team Sint Maarten (ATS), marking a significant milestone for the foundation in its contribution to Sint Maartens tax and audit landscape. Founded ten years ago, Audit Team Sint Maarten is a specialized foundation dedicated to conducting tax-related audits and supporting the strengthening of financial oversight and compliance on the island. Over the past decade, ATS has played an important role in enhancing the quality and professionalism of compliance and audit functions in Sint Maarten. Notably, ATS employs several Sint Maarten-born professionals who were recruited directly from the Netherlands and are currently completing their qualification as Registered Accountants. This investment in local talent reflects ATSs commitment to capacity building and sustainable professional development within Sint Maarten. During the event, Minister Gumbs congratulated ATS on its decade of service and commended the organization for its dedication, expertise, and contribution to public financial accountability. She expressed optimism that ATS will continue to support Sint Maarten in strengthening its tax administration and audit practices in the years ahead. She concluded by wishing ATS continued success as it enters its next decade of service to Sint Maarten. PHILIPSBURG:--- The Integrity Chamber of Sint Maarten is taking a step to continue strengthening integrity, transparency, and accountability across the country with the launch of a National Integrity System (NIS) Progress Review. This initiative builds on the NIS Assessment Report published in 2015 by Transparency International. The report set out nearly sixty (60) recommendations aimed at strengthening Sint Maartens integrity framework and promoting transparency and accountability. The assessment was informed by insights from a broad cross-section of stakeholders, including government institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, and the media. The decision to revisit the NIS Assessment followed renewed attention at the Kingdom level to the state of integrity of the countries within the Kingdom. In response, the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the Honorable Luc F.E. Mercelina, emphasized, together with the Integrity Chamber, the importance of reviewing the findings of the 2015 report to assess the status of its recommendations. This review offers an important opportunity to reflect, measure progress, and move forward with renewed focus. The Integrity Chamber will examine what has been achieved, where progress has slowed, and what challenges continue to affect implementation. Most importantly, the review will look ahead, identifying practical solutions that can make a real and lasting impact. This initiative underscores Sint Maartens commitment to good governance and responsible leadership. By strengthening systems that promote integrity, accountability, and transparency, that contributes directly to public trust, institutional resilience, and sustainable development. It also reinforces Sint Maartens standing as a country that takes integrity seriously, both locally and internationally. As part of the review, the Integrity Chamber will: Review the status of the 2015 NIS recommendations and assess progress to date. Identify factors that have supported or hindered implementation. Develop a clear, realistic, and prioritized action plan with timelines. Issue additional recommendations to further enhance integrity, accountability, and transparency. The progress review is expected to take approximately eight (8) to ten (10) months. The Integrity Chamber will be supported in this process by relevant government institutions and experienced experts in the field of integrity, governance, and institutional development. Through this initiative, the Integrity Chamber continues its mission to promote integrity as a cornerstone of a strong democracy and a fair society, ensuring that integrity is not just a principle, but a practice that benefits all of Sint Maarten. For more information on the National Integrity System and the progress review, contact the Integrity Chamber at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Richinel S.J. Brug, is encouraging the community to take simple, proactive steps to protect their health as flu season is underway. The Minister emphasized that this message reinforces the importance of preventive healthcare practices that help reduce seasonal illness, strengthen the immune system, and support overall well-being. As we move through flu season, this is simply a reminder that prevention is always better than cure, Minister Brug stated. Small, consistent actions such as taking daily vitamins, staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, eating balanced meals, and actively working to raise our immune systems can make a meaningful difference. Minister Brug noted that, as a Caribbean country, Sint Maarten is fortunate to have access to natural remedies that have long been part of the regions culture and traditions. We live in the Caribbean, where many natural resources are available to us, he noted. Local remedies such as ginger tea, ginger shots, turmeric, honey, lime, and other immune-supporting preparations have been used for generations. Incorporating these into our daily routines, alongside proper hygiene and medical guidance when necessary, can help strengthen our bodies during this time. The Minister also encouraged residents to maintain proper hand hygiene and stay home when feeling unwell. Preventive health is a key pillar of our policy approach. When we take steps to strengthen our immune systems, we protect not only ourselves, but also our families and the most vulnerable members of our society. The Ministry of VSA continues to promote preventative healthcare as part of its broader public health strategy, recognizing that strong communities are built on informed, proactive choices. Press Release from Business Wire: Zoya Technologies LLC (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 DUBAI, Feb 9, 2026 (BSW) - Zoya Technologies today unveiled ZoyeMed 3.0, an edge-native clinical terminal designed to deliver autonomous primary and acute care with humans in the loop. Presented at WHX Dubai 2026, the system combines on-device artificial intelligence, multimodal sensing, point-of-care testing, and longitudinal patient modeling to support high-fidelity diagnostics without reliance on continuous cloud connectivity. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260209475744/en/ ZoyeMed 3.0, an edge-native autonomous clinical terminal developed by Zoya Technologies, designed to support primary and acute care using on-device intelligence and multimodal sensing. The interface shown represents a neutral, multilingual system layer and does not display clinical data. (Photo: AETOSWire) ZoyeMed 3.0 represents a significant architectural shift from earlier generations of ZoyeMed systems. While previous versions established a dense clinical sensorium, version 3.0 introduces a closed-loop, edge-first architecture that separates real-time safety and triage from higher-order reasoning, enabling longitudinal modeling over time. This approach allows care delivery to remain functional in environments with limited bandwidth, staffing constraints, or intermittent connectivity. Since 2025, Zoya Technologies has shipped 44 ZoyeMed 1.0 units, with deployments underway in Mexico as part of a broader multi-phase contract covering up to 300 units. In Colombia, the company has signed agreements for 64 units per year over a three-year period. The first ZoyeMed 3.0 unit has already been delivered to Bogota in preparation for pilot deployment following the WHX Dubai unveiling. Unlike telemedicine platforms or AI copilots layered onto existing hospital systems, ZoyeMed 3.0 is designed as physical healthcare infrastructure, integrating diagnostics, decision support, and follow-up into a compact, on-site clinical unit. The system is intended to reduce cognitive load on clinicians while extending access to consistent, protocol-driven care at scale. "ZoyeMed 3.0 moves clinical intelligence closer to the patient," said Dr. Syed Sabahat Azim, Chief Executive Officer of Zoya Technologies. "By operating at the edge, the system is designed to function reliably even when connectivity is limited, while building a longitudinal view of patient health over time." Following the WHX Dubai unveiling, Zoya Technologies plans staged deployments of ZoyeMed 3.0 across Latin America, the Middle East, and South Asia. About Zoya Technologies LLC Zoya Technologies LLC is a deep-technology infrastructure company focused on building edge-native systems for real-world service delivery at scale. The company develops physically grounded, autonomous systems that integrate sensing, safety, and longitudinal intelligence, with healthcare as its first deployed domain. *Source: AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260209475744/en/ Contact Media Contact:Sanket Santra[email protected] +971-56-9112796www.zoyel.com 2026 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release. EU warns Meta it must open up WhatsApp to rival AI chatbots Brussels, Belgium, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 The EU executive told Meta on Monday that it must let rival AI chatbots use its WhatsApp platform, after an antitrust probe found the US giant to be in breach of the bloc's competition rules. The European Commission said a change in Meta's terms had "effectively" barred third-party artificial intelligence assistants from connecting to customers via the messaging platform since January. Competition chief Teresa Ribera said the EU was "considering" interim measures to "avoid Meta's new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe". The EU executive sent Meta a warning known as a "statement of objections", a formal step in antitrust probes, and the US giant now has a chance to reply and defend itself. Interim measures, if the commission moves ahead, could mean requiring Meta to "maintain the access of third-party AI assistance to WhatsApp under the same terms as it did before the policy change, until the end of the investigation", a spokesman said. Monday's step does not prejudge the outcome of the probe. Meta rejected the preliminary findings, saying: "The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene." "There are many AI options and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships. The commission's logic incorrectly assumes the WhatsApp Business API is a key distribution channel for these chatbots," a spokesperson for the tech giant said. Opened in December, the EU probe marks the latest attempt by the 27-nation bloc to rein in Big Tech firms, many of which are based in the United States, in the face of strong pushback by the government of President Donald Trump. - Meta in the firing line - Meta has integrated its own generative assistant, Meta AI, across the company's platforms, which also include Facebook and Instagram, used by billions of people globally. Its new restrictions on rivals apply when AI is the core service offered -- as with a chatbot or assistant -- though firms can still use AI for support functions such as customer service via WhatsApp. EU regulators are concerned that locking WhatsApp's more than three billion users into Meta AI could give the company a commercial advantage over rival chatbots, particularly smaller market entrants. The investigation covers the European Economic Area (EEA), made up of the bloc's 27 states, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway -- with the exception of Italy, which opened a separate investigation into Meta in July. The commission said Meta was "likely to be dominant" in the EEA for consumer messaging apps, notably through WhatsApp, and accused Meta of "abusing this dominant position by refusing access" to competitors. "We cannot allow dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage," Ribera said in a statement. There is no legal deadline for concluding an antitrust probe. Meta is already under investigation under different laws in the European Union. EU regulators are also investigating Facebook and Instagram over fears they are not doing enough to tackle the risk of social media addiction for children. The company also appealed a 200 million euro ($238 million) fine imposed last year by the commission under the online competition law, the Digital Markets Act. That case focused on its policy asking users to choose between an ad-free subscription and a free, ad-supported service, and Brussels and Meta remain in discussions over finding an alternative that would address the EU's concerns. raz-ec/js German union urges homegrown fighter jet in blow to European plan Frankfurt, Germany, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 Germany's largest union on Monday called for Berlin to develop its own fighter jet, after French President Emmanuel Macron urged progress on a troubled joint European warplane project. Accusing French planemaker Dassault Aviation of trying to dictate terms on the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, Juergen Kerner, deputy head of the IG Metall union, and Marie-Christine von Hahn, head of the German Aerospace Industries Association, said Germany should make its own jet. "FCAS was originally planned as a joint project between equal partners and operated as such for a long time," they wrote in an opinion piece published by the Handelsblatt newspaper. "Those who now demand absolute control should not be surprised if there are consequences," they added, calling for "a commitment to two aircraft within the project". Launched in 2017 to replace France's Rafale jet as well as the Eurofighter planes used by Germany and Spain, the project has stalled amid disagreements between Dassault and Airbus, which represents German and Spanish interests in the project. Macron said in November that Paris and Berlin had "an obligation to achieve results" on the project, presenting it as a "test of credibility" for the continent. But a German government spokesman told AFP in December that efforts to break the deadlock on the project had been unsuccessful. While agreeing that a failure of the project would "weaken our security, European cooperation, capacity to innovate and not least well-paid jobs in industry", Kerner and von Hahn said developing two jets would represent the "maturation" of FCAS. "That would allow for different national priorities and reduce tensions because cooperation would then take place where it makes economic and technological sense -- not where it is dictated by political symbolism," they said. vbw/sr/js Dassault Aviation Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has discussed cooperation and joint weapons production with a delegation from the French Defense Ministry led by Minister Catherine Vautrin. The delegation also visited Ukrainian air defense positions. "Today, Ukraine is among the leaders in the production of various types of drones. We are constantly working on military innovations. It is already clear that the missile program will become a successful area, and we will expand it together with our Western partners. Despite sanctions pressure, Russia continues to produce missiles and UAVs. That is why joint production and cooperation with partners are critically important for strengthening the defense capabilities of Ukraine and all of Europe," Fedorov wrote on Telegram on Monday. Fedorov and the French delegation, together with the command of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, also visited combat positions of the anti-aircraft missile forces. "The meeting took place against the backdrop of another massive Russian attack on critical infrastructure. The French delegation saw firsthand what Ukraine faces every day. Russia systematically targets energy and civilian infrastructure with missiles and drones. No other country in the world has experienced such sustained missile and drone strikes. I showed Ms. Vautrin the round-the-clock duty of our servicemembers and the French-supplied SAMP/T, Mirage 2000 and Mistral systems in combat positions. Catherine Vautrin personally spoke with our military personnel," Fedorov said. The minister thanked France for its support, which helps protect Ukrainian skies and save lives every day. Iran ready to dilute highly enriched uranium if all sanctions lifted: nuclear chief Tehran, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 Iran is prepared to dilute its highly enriched uranium if the United States lifts all sanctions on the country, the head of its atomic energy agency said Monday after talks resumed with Washington. "In conclusion, in response to a question about the possibility of diluting 60 percent enriched uranium... the head of the Atomic Energy Organization said that this depends on whether all sanctions would be lifted in return," the official IRNA news agency reported, referring to agency chief Mohammad Eslami, without specifying whether this included all sanctions on Iran or only those imposed by the United States. Diluting uranium means mixing it with blend material to reduce the enrichment level, so that the final product does not exceed a given enrichment threshold. Before US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear facilities in June last year, Iran had been enriching uranium to 60 percent, far exceeding the 3.67 percent limit allowed under a now-defunct nuclear agreement reached with world powers in 2015. Western countries, led by the United States, suspect Tehran is seeking to develop nuclear weapons, a claim denied by Iran. According to the UN's nuclear watchdog, Iran is the only non-nuclear-weapons state enriching uranium to 60 percent. It is also unknown where more than 400 kg of highly enriched uranium that Iran possessed prior to the war has ended up, with UN inspectors last recording its location on June 10. Such a stockpile could allow Iran to build more than nine nuclear bombs if enrichment reached 90 percent. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly called for Iran to be subject to a total ban on enrichment, a condition unacceptable to Tehran and far less favourable than the 2015 agreement. Iran maintains it has a right to a civilian nuclear programme under the provisions of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, to which it and 190 other countries are signatories. Somalia signs defence agreement with Saudi Arabia Mogadishu, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 Somalia Monday signed a defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, as the Horn of Africa becomes an arena for proxy wars between Gulf monarchies, with Abu Dhabi at loggerheads with Riyadh. The region, strategically located between the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal on one of the world's busiest trade routes, has increasingly attracted the interest of the Gulf states. The agreement comes a month and a half after Israel recognised Somaliland, a self-proclaimed republic that seceded from Somalia in 1991 but which Mogadishu still considers to be under its control. Somali Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and his Saudi counterpart, Prince Khalid Bin Salman, signed a "military cooperation agreement" on Monday, according to a message on X from the Somali defence ministry. "This agreement further strengthens defence and military cooperation between the two nations, while covering various areas of mutual interest for both countries," it said. In a separate post on X, Salman added he had "signed and witnessed the signing" of "several" agreements on the sidelines of a military exhibition in Riyadh. He did not provide further details. The UAE is widely accused of arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries in Sudan, who have been fighting the regular military since 2023 and are accused of massacres against the civilian population. The UAE has repeatedly denied the allegations. Meanwhile, in Somaliland, the Emirati giant DP World has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in developing the deep-water port of Berbera, which it uses with little regard for the government in Mogadishu. This port includes an airport strictly controlled by Abu Dhabi, according to several witnesses and local sources. Saudi Arabia, once a staunch ally of Abu Dhabi, is now a vocal critic of the UAE, particularly on the Sudanese and Yemeni issues. The two monarchies joined forces in 2014 against the Houthis, who are supported by Iran. However, the alliance has fractured, culminating in its open collapse a month ago when Riyadh bombed a shipment of weapons allegedly destined for Yemen and originating from the UAE. jf/rbu/ach X Italian suspect questioned over Sarajevo 'weekend snipers' killings: reports Rome, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 An 80-year-old man suspected of being a "weekend sniper" who paid the Bosnian Serb army to shoot civilians during the 1990s siege of Sarajevo was questioned Monday in Milan, media reported. The octogenarian former truck driver from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeast Italy, is suspected by Milan prosecutors of "voluntary homicide aggravated by abject motives", according to Italian news agency ANSA. Lawyer Giovanni Menegon told journalists that his client had answered questions from prosecutors and police and "reaffirmed his complete innocence". Milan prosecutors did not respond to AFP requests for comment. In October, prosecutors opened an investigation into what Italian media dubbed "weekend snipers" or "war tourists": mostly wealthy, gun-loving, far-right sympathisers who allegedly gathered in Trieste and were taken to the hills surrounding Sarajevo where they fired on civilians for sport. During the nearly four-year siege of Sarajevo that began in April 1992 some 11,541 men, women and children were killed and more than 50,000 people wounded by Bosnian Serb forces, according to official figures. Il Giornale newspaper reported last year that the would-be snipers paid Bosnian Serb forces up to the equivalent of 100,000 euros ($115,000) per day to shoot at civilians below them. The suspect -- described by the Italian press as a hunting enthusiast who is nostalgic for Fascism -- is said to have boasted publicly about having gone "man hunting". Witness statements, particularly from residents of his village, helped investigators to track the suspect, freelance journalist Marianna Maiorino told AFP. - In Bosnia 'for work' - "According to the testimonies, he would tell his friends at the village bar about what he did during the war in the Balkans," said Maiorino, who researched the allegations and was herself questioned as part of the investigation. The suspect is "described as a sniper, someone who enjoyed going to Sarajevo to kill people," she added. The suspect told local newspaper Messaggero Veneto Sunday he had been to Bosnia during the war, but "for work, not for hunting". He added that his public statements had been exaggerated and he was "not worried". The investigation opened last year followed a complaint filed by Italian journalist and writer Ezio Gavanezzi, based on allegations revealed in the documentary "Sarajevo Safari" by Slovenian director Miran Zupanic in 2022. Gavanezzi was contacted in August 2025 by the former mayor of Sarajevo, Benjamina Karic, who filed a complaint in Bosnia in 2022 after the same documentary was broadcast. The Bosnia and Herzegovina prosecutor's office confirmed to AFP on Friday that a special war crimes department was investigating alleged foreign snipers during the siege of Sarajevo. Bosnian prosecutors requested information from Italian counterparts at the end of last year, while also contacting the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in The Hague, it said. That body performs some of the functions previously carried out by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Sarajevo City Council adopted a decision last month authorising the current mayor, Samir Avdic, to "join the criminal proceedings" before the Italian courts in order to support Italian prosecutors. Iran steps up arrests while remaining positive on US talks Paris, France, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 Iran stepped up its crackdown on Monday after recent protests, with more arrests, while holding the door open to Washington for further nuclear negotiations. The arrests -- including that of Javad Emam, the spokesperson for the main reformist coalition -- came after Iranian and US officials held talks in Oman that both sides painted as positive. On Saturday, Iran heaped more jail time on Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi, and on Monday arrested Hossein Karoubi, the son of prominent dissident Mehdi Karoubi. Weeks after repressing a wave of protests, one of the greatest challenges to government authority since it came to power in the 1979 Islamic revolution, Tehran has taken a two-track approach. It is rounding up and jailing perceived critics, while at the same time pursuing a potential diplomatic opening with US President Donald Trump's administration. A spokesperson for the Reformist Front coalition, told local media on Monday that Iran's Revolutionary Guards had arrested the group's spokesman Emam. Emam was one of at least five Reformist Front figures to be detained, alongside those of several activists and filmmakers for co-signing a protest statement. Iran's government has branded the protests "riots" fuelled by its arch-foes Israel and the United States. - 'Frustrate the enemy' - On Monday, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on the nation to show "resolve" against foreign pressure. "National power is less about missiles and aircraft and more about the will and resolve of the people," Khamenei said, adding: "Show it again and frustrate the enemy." Alongside this defiance, Iran has signalled it could come to some kind of deal to dial back its nuclear programme to avoid further conflict with Washington. The official IRNA news agency reported that Iranian atomic agency chief Mohammad Eslami had said that Tehran could dilute its highly-enriched uranium in return for sanctions relief. "In response to a question about the possibility of diluting 60 percent enriched uranium," IRNA reported, Eslami "said this depends on whether all sanctions would be lifted in return." The report did not specify whether such an agreement would include only nuclear sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, or all international economic measures targeting the Islamic republic. Diluting or "downblending" uranium means mixing it with other substances to reduce the enrichment level, so the final product does not exceed a given enrichment threshold -- and thus extending the amount of time it would take Iran to create sufficient nuclear material for a bomb. Tehran furiously insists it has never planned to build a nuclear weapon, and that enrichment for civilian research and energy is its sovereign right, but the US, Israel and most Western capitals do not believe this. At the talks in Oman last week, the US and Iran agreed to discuss Tehran's nuclear programme, though Washington and Israel also want to put the Iran's ballistic missiles and its support for militant groups in the region on the agenda. - 'Propaganda' - The United States has not, however, given any sign that the crackdown on Iran's domestic critics is of any concern to it in the talks. On Saturday, Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi was sentenced to six years in prison on charges of harming national security. She was also given a one-and-a-half year prison sentence for "propaganda" against Iran's Islamic system, her foundation said in a statement. Already incarcerated for much of the past decade as a result of her campaigning against capital punishment and the mandatory dress code for women, she now faces up to 17 more years behind bars and 154 lashes. The arrest of Reformist Front spokesman Emam followed those on Sunday of three other figures, including Azar Mansouri, who has led the coalition since 2023. Another reformist lawmaker was arrested on Monday. The reformist camp largely backed incumbent president Masoud Pezeshkian in the 2024 presidential election. Separately, Hussein Karoubi was also picked up. Karoubi's father Mehdi Karoubi was a figure in the 2009 Green movement protests and has been under house arrest more or less ever since. - Thousands killed - The authorities in Iran have acknowledged that 3,117 people were killed in the protests, published a list of 2,986 names, most of whom they say were members of the security forces and innocent bystanders. International organisations have put the toll far higher. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says it has verified 6,961 deaths, mostly protesters, and has another 11,630 cases under investigation. It has also counted more than 51,000 arrests. At the beginning of the sentencing, which is expected to last three days, prosecutor Alison Morgan KC told the court the prosecutions case was that the chief instructor at the British Armys school of military engineering was targeted because of his appearance as a solider. Allow Google Search To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information. Allow and Continue He added that having a policy of not engaging at all with China is not a policy that benefits Britain or British citizens, and argued it was much better to have a relationship that allows us to make our case directly to the Chinese president rather than just talking into a void. Williams trip will be his first official overseas visit of 2026 and his first to the Middle East since his 2023 trip to Kuwait to pay his condolences after the death of Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, its former ruling emir. With the start of the tour just a few hours away, there was a real sense from Kensington Palace that they wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known, so William could focus on the trip likely to be the biggest diplomatic test to date of his overseas visits in support of the UK. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has proposed, following the example of Estonia, to introduce a complete ban on entry to the European Union for Russian citizens who participated in Russian aggression against Ukraine. "It is time to introduce a complete ban on entry to the EU for Russian citizens who participated in Russian aggression against Ukraine. Firstly, it is about the long-term national security of European states and the protection of their citizens from Russian bandits. Secondly, this will set the right price for the wrong choice: every Russian who signs a contract to invade Ukraine will know that he is also signing a lifetime ban on entering Europe," he said on X. Sybiha noted Estonias leadership in introducing such a ban. "Estonia has already shown leadership by implementing appropriate national solutions and proving that the mechanism works. Now it is time to extend this to the entire European Union, and I urge my EU colleagues to take this step seriously. This is about strengthening Europes security," the minister said. Much of the work of the royal family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, despite the Kings attempts to draw a line under the matter when he banished Andrew in October by stripping him of his right to be a prince and of his dukedom. Later, emails would suggest there were tensions between the two, with Lewis writing in one email: i misperceived my value in your life, and bent to your line of thought i spent too long honoring relationship/s that didn't serve me or had expired. Among the British nationals identified on the list are a man convicted of sex assault, a person charged with burglary, and another with indecent liberties. The database does not specify when these people were added to the records or whether theyve already been deported. A Dallas residential real estate brokerage that broke from Keller Williams Realty is suing the powerhouse brokerage, saying its withholding listings and commissions. Austin American-Statesman A Dallas realty group has accused multiple real estate firms associated with Keller Williams Realty of holding hostage $3 million worth of its residential listings as it exits the giant Austin-based brokerages umbrella. Cannon Realty Team and LPT Realty filed suit against Keller Williams, Frisco Stars GP LLC, Go Management LLC and Smokey Garrett alleging that when Cannon tried to switch from Keller Williams to LPT, it was met with dirty tricks and unlawful, predatory practices to prevent them from leaving. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The lawsuit alleges Keller Williams is attempting to retain the listings and commissions from the Cannon team. Keller Williams, seeing a spat among its franchisees, wants to be removed from the case, telling a Texas Business Court judge Friday it has no control and isnt involved. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source We dont know why we are here, said Iris Gibson, an Austin attorney representing the franchise, which is the worlds largest by agent count. Frankly, its harming our reputation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Christie Cannon had been an independent contractor with Keller Williams for 21 years and started her own company under the umbrella with her own agents, who were also contractors for Keller Williams. More than 100 people from Cannon now sell across the Dallas suburban enclaves of Southlake and Frisco. In 2022, Cannon bought an interest in one of Keller Williams Market Centers, a limited partnership operated as Frisco Stars Ltd. and managing partner Smokey Garrett. They attempted to leave the partnership that, according to the lawsuit, has produced no profit since 2023. When Cannon gave notice that her team would exit, she said she thought Garrett was threatening to destroy her business. The lawsuit alleges her agents' access to their listings is being restricted. Frisco Stars sent a cease and desist letter on Jan. 28. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These actions are in blatant violation of the Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Frisco Stars, Ltd., said the letter, referencing a non-compete agreement. Frisco Stars argued in court documents that none of the allegations of retaliation were true, that it did not restrict access and that Cannon never made a proper transfer request. It also reaffirmed Cannon expressly accepted the agreements non-compete when she bought into Frisco Stars. Cannon, though, says she never signed the amended agreement. She and LPT sued for various forms of tortious interference and breach of fiduciary duty. They went to court Friday to get a temporary restraining order and injunction that would force the Keller Williams brokers to release the listings, turn over commissions and award unspecified damages. The order was not approved Friday. It appears there may be a way to resolve the issue quickly without it. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Frisco Stars attorney Matthew Streety told Judge Melissa Andrews the listings would be released when Cannon joins a new brokerage and provides the correct documents. Were happy to release the listings to her at that point, Streety said. It wasnt clear from the proceedings whether Frisco Stars had changed its position on its insistence that Cannon had signed a noncompete agreement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Judge Melissa Andrews reset the case for Tuesday, giving the parties more time to come to a resolution. File Photo Jay Janner/American-Statesman A rendering facility that recycles old cooking oil and chicken processing byproducts has run afoul of Texas. Chicken feathers, blood, and other byproducts are allegedly creating such a smell of rotten flesh, dead animals, and sewage as to inspire neighbor protests, state investigations and, now, a civil court complaint. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a lawsuit filed Monday in Travis County, Attorney General Ken Paxton says the smell at Darling Ingredients Bastrop County facility has is so bad that it violates the Texas Clean Air Act and that the company has been cited by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. ALSO READ: Bastrop County inks deal for stray livestock boarding Darling Ingredients continues to emit air contaminants in the form of this odor that is so offensive that it is interfering with the local communitys use and enjoyment of their property, the suit says. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source The company is also accused of causing health issues for neighbors. Forty-four complaints were filed in January by residents complaining of nausea, headaches, vomiting and burning throats and eyes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Darling Ingredients Bastrop is owned by the Irving-based parent of the same name. It's a publicly traded company with 16,000 employees and a market capitalization of $7.65 billion. In a statement, it said it had received the suit, would respond in court and that it is committed to being a good neighbor. Odors from the company's site on FM 264 near Elgin can be detected as far as 10 miles away, the lawsuit alleges. It produces products for animal feed from nearby poultry processors and cooking oil from restaurants in the area. The company says it processes millions of tons of materrials in 260 such facilities, turning waste into jet fuel, ingredients for wellness products and feed for animals. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On its website, Darling Ingredients has publicly acknowledged the complaints from its neighbors in Central Texas. On a page called Bastrop, We hear you it invited residents to fill out a form with their concerns or to call the company. Neighbors have their own website at stopthestinkbastrop.com. Since 2023, local residents agree that the foul smell has become stronger and more frequent even occurring on a daily basis for many residents, says the site, which also hosts a number of documents regarding TCEQ investigations into the plant. According to the attorney general's petition, residents have made more than 1,400 complaints to the TCEQ since May 2024. Complaints about the business also appear in other forums. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The unbearable smell from this facility needs to be addressed. It is making my entire neighborhood in Elgin smell like dead skunk a couple times per week, Adrian Moss says in a Google review. Paxtons complaint alleges the odor keeps residents from enjoying their swimming pools, walking around their neighborhoods or spending time outside in their yards. The site has been investigated four times since July 2024, with TCEQ finding multiple violations. It was cited for emitting hydrogen sulfide, which smells of rotten eggs, at levels that exceed those allowed by state law. The state environmental regulator said levels were observed at nearly double the allowable emission of the chemical. There also were 787 instances when the company did not record the dump log, recording when rendering materials and raw blood entered its holding areas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These additional violations clearly demonstrate Darling Ingredients neglect for complying with permit requirements at the DIB Site, which in turn is causing the release of foul odors into the local communities, the state's lawsuit says. It is seeking fines over causing a nuisance odor, failure to control emissions, failure to comply with its permit and failure to comply with previous state orders. It also seeks an injunction to ensure the company gets the alleged odor under control. Some provisions include processing raw poultry materials within 12 hours and installing air monitors. The injunction would impose a stringent monitoring program on the site. Construction continues on Samsung's new plant near Taylor on Oct. 16, 2025. The company recently confirmed that the facilitys first chips are expected to roll off the production line later this year. Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. has begun limited operations at its new chip manufacturing plant in Taylor, marking a major milestone for a project that has faced years of delays. The company confirmed that the facilitys first chips are expected to roll off the production line later this year. Several hundred employees have already been working at the still-under-construction site since November. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Announced in 2021, the multibillion-dollar plant is part of Samsungs broader effort to expand semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. The project ranks among the largest private investments in Texas history, and the South Korean company is expected to become the Taylor areas largest employer. The plant was originally slated to begin operations by the end of 2024, with construction largely completed by late 2025. Those timelines have since slipped, with full-scale production now not expected until 2028. Even so, the company said the Taylor site will begin manufacturing semiconductors by the end of 2026. Samsung has secured temporary certificates of occupancy for the site covering about 88,000 square feet of the plant's first building. The company has already built about 4 million square feet of space, including a six-story office building. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Last year, Samsung announced its first public customer for the Taylor plant: Austin-based electric vehicle maker Tesla Inc. Under a $16.5 billion agreement, Samsung will manufacture Teslas next-generation artificial intelligence chips through 2033. Samsung's plant near Taylor seen during construction on Oct. 16. Overall, the company has constructed about 4 million square feet so far, including a six-story office building. Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman While limited operations to prepare the facility for production have begun, Samsung is still building the expansive complex rising on about 1,200 acres of former farmland in Williamson County. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to agreements with the city of Taylor, Samsung's build-out is supporting between 6,500 and 10,000 construction jobs. The site is expected to create 1,800 permanent jobs once fully operational, with that number expected to grow as additional factories are built on the site. Timothee Chalamet, winner of the Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy Award for "Marty Supreme" poses in the press room during the 83rd Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 11, 2026 in Beverly Hills, California. Brianna Bryson/Getty Images Interstellar fans rejoice! Timothee Chalamet and Matthew McConaughey, who played father and son in the Christopher Nolan movie, are coming together for an Actors on Actors conversation on craft and creativity, filmed live with students at the University of Texas' Moody College of Communication on Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. The special titled A CNN & Variety Town Hall Event: Timothee Chalamet and Matthew McConaughey will feature the two actors taking questions from the UT Austin students. McConaughey, a UT Austin alumni, has been teaching film classes at Moody College of Communication since 2015. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Timothee Chalamet and Matthew McConaughey first met playing father and son on the set of Christopher Nolans Interstellar,' Varietys co-Editor in Chief and co-President Ramin Setoodeh said. And at Variety, we love a reunion. Coming off the success of this season of Actors on Actors, we are thrilled to once again collaborate with CNN on this one-of-a-kind town hall event. We cant wait to bring together two of the most daring actors in Hollywood. (L-R) Armie Hammer, Rebecca Campbell, and Timothee Chalamet pose on the red carpet for the Texas Film Awards held at the AFS Cinema in Austin on March 8, 2018. Suzanne Cordeiro/Austin American-Statesman Timothee Chalamet was last in Austin for the Texas Film Awards in 2018. He took part in a Call Me By Your Name tribute with co-star Armie Hammer, who recived the Variety One To Acclaim Award at the ceremony. This special event underscores the strength of CNNs partnership with Variety and our shared commitment to thoughtful, premium experiences that bring audiences closer to the artists they admire, CNNs Amy Entelise said. Timothee Chalamet and Matthew McConaughey offer a masterclass in craft and creativity, which is exactly the kind of elevated programming were proud to bring to CNN audiences and our streaming subscribers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad How to watch 'Timothee Chalamet and Matthew McConaughey' Armed immigration agents wearing vests labeled POLICE are seen inside a San Antonio home in a screenshot from a video shared by homeowner Maggie Guillen. Maggie Guillen Videos circulating online show armed immigration agents entering a San Antonio home without clearly presenting a judicial warrant, prompting allegations of a warrantless entry and renewed scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement practices. The incident was recorded by residents inside the home, including Maggie Guillen who identified herself as the homeowner when posting videos to social media on Thursday and Friday. Those videos show multiple agents wearing tactical gear labeled POLICE entering the house with weapons drawn while women and children were inside. Guillen said the agents did not identify who they were looking for, did not show a judicial warrant and later acknowledged they had the wrong person. Advertisement Article continues below this ad No arrests were made, Guillen said, and she described the encounter as frightening. She said everyone inside the home has legal status. The Department of Homeland Security disputed that account, saying officers were attempting to execute an arrest warrant for Gonzalo Mejia Ortega, a 34-year-old man they allege fled from officers during a vehicle stop and ran into the home. DHS said agents followed him inside but that he escaped through a window. The agency also claimed that an officer was assaulted by someone inside the house as agents were leaving, but "agitators" stopped them from conducting an arrest. DHS said the matter has been referred to federal prosecutors for review. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source The videos do not show agents clearly presenting a warrant before entering the residence, a point central to the dispute. Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement generally must obtain a judicial warrant to enter a private home unless an emergency situation exists. Immigration agents often carry administrative warrants, which are not signed by a judge and do not, on their own, authorize entry into a residence without consent. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, whose district includes San Antonio, called the incident a home invasion and said he is seeking answers from federal officials. Castro said the episode raises serious constitutional concerns and reflects a broader pattern of aggressive immigration enforcement tactics that may be stretching or violating legal limits. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The San Antonio incident has added to growing concern from civil rights advocates and lawmakers about whether immigration agents are increasingly entering homes without proper judicial authorization, particularly amid stepped-up enforcement activity across Texas. (L-R) Savannah Guthrie and mother Nancy Guthrie on June 15, 2023. Nathan Congleton/Getty Images The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of TODAY show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has expanded into Texas as investigators say time is critical. According to federal authorities, the FBI will post digital billboards in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and El Paso seeking tips in the case, which began after Nancy Guthrie was reported missing from her home in Tucson, Ariz., on Feb. 1. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The billboards will feature a photo of Nancy Guthrie, identifying information and an FBI tipline. They are offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to her recovery. Investigators are also examining two ransom messages sent to media outlets demanding $6 million in Bitcoin, along with DNA evidence found outside Guthries home that authorities say supports the belief she did not leave voluntarily. During a recent news conference, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said time is very critical. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source On Feb. 7, Savannah Guthrie posted a video on social media alongside her siblings directly pleasing for their mother's safe return. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her," Savannah Guthrie said. "This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. The latest on the Nancy Guthrie investigation Authorities say drops of Nancy Guthrie's blood were found outside her home, and her cell phone is in police custody. Investigators also say her physical limitations make it unlikely she left on her own, and she takes daily medication that she cannot go more than 24 hours without taking. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Savannah Guthrie is seen on the NBC Today Show Citi Concert Series at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 1, 2025 in New York City. NDZ/Star Max/Getty Images Who is Savannah Guthrie? Savannah Guthrie is an American journalist and former attorney, best known as a primary co-anchor of NBC News TODAY show since 2012. She was a White House correspondent for NBC News from 2008 to 2011 before becoming TODAY co-anchor in 2012. Guthrie is a New York Times bestselling author and she was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2022. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Who is Nancy Guthrie? Nancy Guthrie is Savannah Guthries 84-year-old mother. She is very limited in her mobility, we know she didnt just walk out of there, that we know, Nanos said. There were other things at the scene that indicate that she did not leave on her own. The Guthrie family was alerted to Nancys disappearance when they received a call from someone at their local church saying that she wasnt there. Family members then went to her house and searched for Nancy before contacting the police. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Nanos, Nancy lives alone and has house staff. Authorities are also in possession of her cell phone. Nancy Guthrie is described as 5 feet, 5 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Nanos said she was last seen at her home around 9:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Saturday. Savannah Guthrie at Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Festival held at Spring Studios on October 9, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by Kristina Bumphrey/Variety via Getty Images) Kristina Bumphrey/Variety via Getty Images Does Savannah Guthrie have any siblings? Savannah Guthrie has two siblings: an older sister named Annie Guthrie and an older brother named Camron Guthrie. According to Nanos, Savannah is currently in Arizona. She issued a statement on Monday on behalf of the Guthrie family. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers and messages of support, Savannah Guthrie shared. Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom. We thank law enforcement for their hard work on this case and encourage anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriffs Department at (520) 351-4900. What is Savannah Guthries net worth? According to Parade, Savannah Guthrie has an estimated net worth of $40 million as of 2026. Her annual salary is approximated to be around $8 million per year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nanos did not elaborate on what makes authorities consider Nancy Guthries home a crime scene, saying it would be inappropriate at this time. Student Frederick Grimes uses the computers available at the Pflugerville Public Library on Thursday, May 25, 2023. Kara Hawley / American-Statesman Each year in Texas, students spend months preparing to take the oft dreaded but highly consequential State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, exams. Their scores affect the grades the state issues each campus and school district and whether the state decides to take a heavier hand in district operations. But STAAR tests are far from the only standardized exams students take each year. Some districts also give students optional exams, in the hopes of targeting areas for extra support. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Which state-required tests do students take? All public school children in third grade through eighth grade must take at least one STAAR test per year in math and reading. Fifth and eighth graders take a science test, and eighth graders also take a social studies test. High schoolers take subject-specific STAAR tests after they finish a course associated with that exam. These tests are for Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology and U.S. History. Sometimes, students may take a test that corresponds to a different grade than their current level. For example, if a student is taking Algebra I as an eighth grader, theyll take the STAAR Algebra I test that year, though its predominantly taken by high schoolers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What other standardized tests might my student take? Many districts also give students the MAP Growth test, an exam designed by the Northwest Evaluation Association, or NWEA, which is a division of the publishing company Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Rather than evaluating whether a student met a certain standard, the MAP test is meant to show if a student grew academically over the course of a year and provide teachers with mid-year checks on some subject areas students are struggling in. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Students often take a MAP test near the beginning of the year, before winter break and before summer break. This data is typically broken down for each child. Do any tests measure Texas students against the rest of the country? Austin ISD students are among a select group in Texas who take the National Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, tests. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Results from this test are used in whats commonly called the Nations Report Card, which provides an overview of students performance nationwide. Texas STAAR tests assess students' understanding of Texas-specific curriculum, while the NAEP provides insight into how students perform when compared to their peers in other states. The U.S. Department of Education administers the exams and data reporting. Results from the tests typically come out every two years. The NAEP test assesses fourth, eighth and 12th graders. Not all students take the test, and not all districts participate in the program. Participating in NAEP is voluntary, but Title 1 schools, which receive extra federal funding because a campus serves primarily low-income students, must participate if selected. Advertisement Article continues below this ad NAEP has been reporting Austin ISDs district-level data since 2005. The agency also reports district-level data for Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston ISDs. Students and schools dont receive individual reports for their performance. What about language-related tests? Emergent bilingual students who are learning English must take the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System test, or TELPAS. The state requires students to take the TELPAS test annually until they meet the requirements to exit the emergent bilingual program. Students can leave the program when they show they can master grade-level material and pass the STAAR and TELPAS test. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On the morning of February 5, the Fourth Session of the 14th Anhui Provincial Peoples Congress opened. The Provincial Government Work Report, in outlining the "Major Goals and Tasks for the 15th Five-Year Plan Period," proposed building an "1188" modern industrial system and fostering more pillar and leading industries. It also emphasized nurturing advanced manufacturing clusters at "provincial, national, and global levels" in a stepwise manner, aiming to form a number of trillion-yuan industrial clusters with core competitiveness. The Report pointed out that during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, Anhui will develop new quality productive forces based on local conditions and achieve new breakthroughs in building influential emerging industrial hubs. Adhering to the direction of intelligentization, greening, and integration, the province will create the "1188" modern industrial system and cultivate more pillar and leading industries. Anhui will vigorously develop ten emerging industries, including intelligent connected new energy vehicles, next-generation information technology, artificial intelligence, high-end equipment manufacturing, new energy and green low-carbon sectors, new materials, low-altitude economy and commercial aerospace, robotics, smart home appliances, as well as biomedicine and high-end medical devices. Concurrently, Anhui will accelerate the deployment of ten future industries, such as biomanufacturing, brain-computer interfaces, embodied intelligence, sixth-generation mobile communication (6G), frontier materials, deep-space exploration, and life sciences. Advanced manufacturing clusters will be nurtured step by step at the "provincialnationalworld-class" levels to form a number of trillion-yuan industrial clusters with core competitiveness. Anhui will foster platform-based enterprises and enterprise-type platforms that integrate R&D, manufacturing, services, and incubation, cultivate a group of ecosystem-leading anchor enterprises, strengthen brand building, and nurture world-class enterprises. The "1188" modern industrial system refers to the modern industrial system with Anhui characteristics to be accelerated during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. In addition to the ten emerging industries and ten future industries, it also includes eight traditional sectorsiron and steel, non-ferrous metals, chemicals, building materials, textiles, coal-fired power, mining, and constructionas well as eight modern service industries: sci-tech services, modern logistics, modern finance, e-commerce, human resources services, culture and tourism, exhibitions and events, and elderly and childcare services. Source: anhuinews.com Two Russian citizens, Lyubomyr Korba and Viktor Vasin, were detained in Moscow on Sunday on suspicion of an attempt on the life of the First Deputy Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseev, and have already stated that they allegedly acted on behalf of the Ukrainian side, Russian media reported, citing their own sources in the law enforcement agencies of the aggressor state. "Russian citizens Korba Lyubomyr, born in 1960, and Vasin Viktor, born in 1959, who were detained by officers of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, pleaded guilty and reported on the circumstances of the preparation of the attempt committed on behalf of the Security Service of Ukraine," the report said. Russia claims that Korba, the direct perpetrator of the assassination attempt on Alekseev, was allegedly recruited by an SBU officer in August 2025 in Ternopil, underwent rifle training and was thrown into the Russian Federation in August of the same year through Moldova and Georgia. His accomplice Vasin allegedly rented him an apartment for clandestine residence and provided Korba with public transport tickets, based on ideological considerations, because he "is a supporter of the International Anti-Corruption Foundation, recognized as a terrorist organization" in the Russian Federation. Investigative journalist Khristo Grozev of the international group Bellingcat wrote in X that Korba is a native of Ukraine and was detained in Dubai (UAE), and Vasin works for an FSB company that produces surveillance equipment. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha told Reuters that Ukraine had nothing to do with the assassination attempt on Alekseev. "We dont know what happened to this particular general - maybe it was their internal Russian showdown," he said. As reported, the attempt on General Alekseev occurred last Friday: he was shot several times and was hospitalized in critical condition. President Kelly Damphousse addresses the classes of 2024 and 2020 during Texas State University's College of Education Graduation at the University Events Center Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. Texas State University said a lecturer is no longer teaching after an explective-laced message from his account went viral on social media. Mikala Compton/American-Statesman Texas State University ended the employment of lecturer Bret Byron after he sent an expletive-laced message to a liberal social media influencer in which he wrote that he hoped she would be deported. Last week, Dhivya Srinivasa, the founder and CEO of the Institute for Advanced Breast Reconstruction who has 267,000 followers on Instagram, posted a screenshot of a Facebook message sent by a user named Bret Bryon. In the message, Byron called Srinivasa derogatory names for her leftist views, and said he hopes she is deported. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Byron lectured at the school in organization, workforce and leadership studies in the College of Applied Arts. It is not clear how long he worked at the school as a lecturer. Internet, do your thing, Srinivasa said in the caption of the post on Instagram, tagging Texas State University. As of Monday, nearly 12,000 users liked the message and more than 1,000 users commented. Shortly after she posted, the official Instagram account for Texas State commented, saying the school was looking into the matter and would take appropriate actions based on the findings. A day later, the school's account commented As of February 4, 2026, Bret Bryon is no longer teaching classes at Texas State University. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Byron is one of at least three former Texas State University employees who lost their jobs this school year after online criticism grew over their speech. In September, the university fired Professor Thomas Alter after his remarks at a revolutionary socialism conference garnered negative attention from conservative critics. The university said his speech was advocating violence, which Alter denied. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A few weeks later, the university fired a staff member after she wrote on social media in defense of a Texas State University student after a video went viral of the student seemingly mocking conservative activist Charlie Kirks death. Srinivasa did not respond to a request for comment. In a video posted after Byrons termination, Srinivasa praised the university for its fast action, saying the response was profound and far greater than I anticipated when I first posted it. Ive got to give a major shout out to Texas State University. Within 48 hours of hearing about this to take definitive action and share it with us, that means they care, Srinivasa said. And they deserve a round of applause. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bryon did not respond to a phone call requesting comment. On Facebook, Bryons biography reads Has anybody bothered to ask WHY did I send such a rude DM to that Dr. in CA? Susanna Ledesma-Woody, candidate for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Ofelia Maldonado Zapata, candidate for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman George Morales III, candidate for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Gavino Fernandez Jr., candidate for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman When voters head to the polls March 3 for the Democratic and Republican primaries, southeast Travis County voters will effectively decide who represents them next year on the countys highest governing body: the Travis County Commissioners Court. Primary elections typically determine which candidates from the major political parties advance to the November general election. But because no Republican filed to run for the Precinct 4 seat this cycle, the Democratic primary winner is all but assured the position. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Longtime Precinct 4 Commissioner Margaret Gomez is stepping down at the end of her term, planning to retire after 52 years in public service. Her departure leaves the seat open for the first time in three decades. Gomez was first elected to the court in 1995 after serving 15 years as a constable. Four Democrats are seeking to succeed her: Gavino Fernandez Jr., George Morales III, Susanna Ledesma-Woody and Ofelia Maldonado Zapata. All have backgrounds in public service or advocacy in predominantly Hispanic southeast Austin. Read on to learn more about the candidates, who appear in alphabetical order. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gavino Fernandez Jr.: Veteran community activist, former county staffer Gavino Fernandez Jr. speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Fernandez is a longtime East Austin activist who has worked in politics and community advocacy for about 50 years. In the early 1990s, he spent four years as chief of staff to then-Commissioner Marcos de Leon. He has also worked for decades with El Concilio de East Austin, a coalition of Mexican American landowners, and has volunteered as a deputy voter registrar. Raised in Del Valle, Fernandez said he would focus on the needs of rural southeast Travis County if elected, working to expand of public safety services in growing communities such as Creedmoor and Elroy, to beef up countywide flood response planning and advocate for more equitable transit access across the precinct. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The retiree said of his work with El Concilio: We werent lawyers, we werent researchers, we werent doctors, but we were able to mobilize. Susanna Ledesma-Woody: A return candidate hoping the third times a charm Susanna Ledesma-Woody speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Ledesma-Woody is a project manager who has served for 14 years as a trustee on the Del Valle Independent School District board. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Raised in Del Valle, she said southeastern Travis County has lagged behind other parts of the county in infrastructure, food access and health care. If elected, Ledesma-Woody said she would prioritize investment in roads, flood mitigation and utilities. She also said shed seek to expand affordable housing options countywide, advocate for investments in health care and economic development in the precinct, and ensure Precinct 4 gets its fair share of funding. Far too often, our communities, especially communities of color east of [Interstate 35], are left out of the conversation, she said. This is her third run for the Precinct 4 seat. She previously ran in 2018 and 2022, coming within 219 votes of unseating Gomez in the latter race. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ledesma-Woody has been endorsed by progressive groups including Annies List, the Texas Progressive Caucus and Equity Action, as well as several school board members and local leaders, according to her website. George Morales III: Democratic Party favorite George Morales III speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Like Gomez, Morales previously served as Travis County constable for Precinct 4. He was first elected to that position in 2016 and held it for nine years. The self-proclaimed Peoples Constable, who spent 26 years in law enforcement, resigned in October to run for commissioner. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An Austin native and Huston-Tillotson University graduate, Morales is campaigning on expanding access to health care and mental health services, preventing displacement, promoting infrastructure and transit equity, and improving budget accountability, according to his campaign website. Displacement exists in Precinct 4; I know because I was constable, Morales said in a recent American-Statesman interview. In Precinct 4, poverty still exists; I know because we did food drives. The lack of healthcare still exists. As a community organizer and as a former elected official, I got to be on the forefront. Morales has secured endorsements from several local Democratic Party organizations and unions representing Travis County employees, Austin EMS workers and Austin firefighters, according to his campaign. Campaign finance reports also show donations from Gomez; several sitting commissioners; County Judge Andy Brown; Sheriff Sally Hernandez; County Attorney Delia Garza; U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett; former Austin Mayor Steve Adler; and multiple Austin City Council members. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ofelia Maldonado Zapata: Former Austin ISD trustee, longtime neighborhood advocate Ofelia Maldonado Zapata speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 4 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Zapata has worked with social justice and anti-poverty organizations since the 1980s, according to her campaign. She also served one term as the District 2 trustee on the Austin school board from 2020 to 2024, opting not to seek reelection. As a school trustee, Zapata said she saw firsthand how socioeconomic conditions affect student outcomes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If elected, she said she would work to expand preventive and mental health care services in Precinct 4, support immigrant families and develop priorities based on community input. Zapata moved to Austin in the 1990s and said her platform is shaped by decades of neighborhood involvement. Im running because I have the lived experience of the same community I want to represent, Zapata said. Election info Early voting in the Democratic and Republican primaries begins Feb. 17 and runs through Feb. 27. Election Day is March 3. Testimony related to the budget for the 2020 fiscal year was given at the Travis County Commissioners Court in August 2019. Precinct chairs for the Democratic and Republican parties will vote on behalf of citizens Sunday to select the candidates who will run for Travis County judge in November. ELI IMADALI/AMERICAN-STATESMAN Four Democrats are competing for Travis Countys Precinct 2 seat on the Commissioners Court, pitching themselves as the best choice to steer the county through disasters, justice reform and rising costs all as state lawmakers continue to tighten the screws on local budgets. Incumbent Brigid Shea faces challengers Reese Armstrong, Rick Astray-Caneda III and Amanda Marzullo. With no Republican in the race, the winner of the March 3 Democratic primary will run unopposed in November and serve a four-year term. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The court has been under full Democratic control since 2021 when Precinct 3 Commissioner Ann Howard replaced Republican Gerald Daugherty, who retired. The five-member elected body oversees the countys budget and operations, including the jail and courts, elections, taxes and infrastructure in unincorporated areas. Precinct 2 spans most of Central Austin, much of West Austin and part of the Lake Travis area. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source The candidates largely agree on the countys biggest challenges. All four cited flood risk and weaknesses in the countys emergency alert system, exposed by the deadly flooding that hit northern Travis County last July. They also support expanding jail diversion programs, particularly for people experiencing mental health crises. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Where they split is on past decisions. Sheas challengers criticized her support for a tax incentive deal with Tesla approved in 2020 and the Commissioners Courts 9.12% property tax increase last year to replenish the countys emergency response fund. Shea has defended both votes as necessary amid financial uncertainty and increasing climate threats. Read on to learn more about the candidates, who appear in alphabetical order. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Reese Armstrong: A young socialist focused on government services Reese Armstrong is a candidate in the Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 2 Democratic primary. Reese Armstrong Reese Armstrong, a senior at McCallum High School, is an aspiring public servant who previously worked as an organizer for Students United while attending the Austin school district's Liberal Arts and Science Academy. Armstrong, who uses they/them pronouns, is running on a platform aligned with Democratic Socialists of America priorities, including social housing, free ambulance services and a pledge of no new jails. While such policies would require a major upfront investment, Armstrong argued they would reduce long-term costs in part by driving down housing prices. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Armstrong also said they would bring a more independent voice to an all-Democratic Commissioners Court. Ive committed to not conferencing with the current Democratic caucus, so I can bring a different perspective, Armstrong said. Armstrong has won endorsements from several young activists with groups including the local chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace. Rick Astray-Caneda III: A public health-focused policy consultant Rick Astray-Caneda III speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 2 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Rick Astray-Caneda III comes from a public health and policy background. He is president of Friends of the David Powell Clinic, which provides HIV and AIDS services across the county, and previously spent more than a decade consulting for state and local governments. Astray-Caneda said his priorities would include expanding county health programs, partnering with cities to build housing in commercial areas and improving disaster preparedness. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I look at things from a social vulnerability and resilience perspective, he said. Building a resilient community means bringing more people into how government works. He said community engagement is especially critical when preparing vulnerable neighborhoods for flooding or wildfires. Amanda Marzullo: An attorney focused on criminal justice reform Amanda Marzullo speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 2 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Amanda Marzullo, a civil rights attorney, is running on a promise to overhaul Travis Countys justice system. She said most of the county budget flows to courts, prosecutors, the public defenders office, the jail and the sheriffs office and that investing in efficiency and diversion could reduce costs while improving outcomes. Marzullo said expanding diversion programs for people accused of low-level, nonviolent offenses would save money and limit the harm caused by short jail stays, including job loss and health problems. She also expressed concern about undocumented immigrants entering deportation proceedings after being booked into jail, where staff must honor detainer requests from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. I want to work with the city of Austin so people arrested for low-level offenses dont end up in jail and dont get funneled into ICE custody, Marzullo said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Marzullo has won endorsements from the University Democrats, Austin Young Democrats, Equity Action, United Workers of Integral Care and the local urbanist organization Aura. Incumbent Brigid Shea: A long-time fixture in local politics Commissioner Brigid Shea speaks as candidates for Travis County Commissioners Court precinct 2 meet with the Austin American-Statesman editorial board Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman Brigid Shea, first elected to the Commissioners Court in 2015, is a longtime force in Austin politics. She helped found the influential Save Our Springs Alliance in the early 1990s and later served on the Austin City Council. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In her re-election bid, she has won endorsements from a long list of Democratic Party-aligned groups, along with at least two local labor unions including the Austin Firefighters Association and some environmental groups. Shea said her focus has been environmental protection and climate resilience. She pointed to a county initiative that retrofitted air-conditioning systems in county buildings to use treated wastewater instead of drinking water from Lake Travis a change she said saves about 45 million gallons of fresh water annually. If reelected, Shea said strengthening the countys emergency alert system would be a top priority. She said that concern drove her vote for last years tax increase, which opponents note raised roughly twice the estimated $20 million needed to repair flood-damaged infrastructure. Our emergency staff said theres a very real possibility were going to have more than one disaster a year, Shea said. We had to ask whether our emergency response fund was big enough. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Election info U.S. Senate candidates, clockwise from top left, Texas Rep. James Talarico (D), U.S. Rep Wesley Hunt (R), Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), U.S. Rep Jasmine Crockett (D), and U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R). Wire File Photos Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democratic U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett are leading their respective primaries in the campaign for U.S. Senate, but the GOP race appears to be headed to a runoff, according to a poll released Monday by the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs shows. The poll, which comes roughly a week before the Feb. 17 start of early voting, also foreshadows a tight race in November no matter which candidates emerges from the March 3 primary. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Paxton, who joins U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt of Houston in the effort to knock off four-term U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, was quick to capitalize on the poll's finding that the incumbent has the highest unfavorable rating among the three competitors. This independent poll makes crystal clear what my campaign has known all along: John Cornyn is deeply disliked by Republican voters, and that would make him a major liability in November, Paxton said in a statement, adding that Cornyn is "lighting tens of millions on fire" by running digital and TV ads that have not advanced him beyond second place. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source The Hobby School surveyed 1,502 self-identified likely voters who were contacted online Jan. 20-31. Of those respondents, 550 Republicans and 550 Democrats were each polled about their attitudes on their party's Senate race. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Among Republicans, 38% said they would vote for Paxton, 31% favored Cornyn and 17% said they were for Hunt. Minor candidates in the field drew a combined 2% and 12% of respondents were undecided. To win the nomination without a runoff, one candidate must draw an outright majority of votes cast in the primary. The margin of error for both parties is plus or minus 4 percentage points. On the Democratic side, the race is just inside of the margin of error and shows Crockett with 47% and Austin state Rep. James Talarico with 39%. Talarico would have to win over most of the 12% who said they are still undecided to close the gap. Karrol Rimal, spokesman for the Crockett campaign, said the poll pokes holes in claims that Talarico would be the most electable Democrat heading into the fall campaign. Each candidate is only two percentage points behind both Paxton and Cornyn in a hypothetical match-up. Crockett polled three points behind Hunt and Talarico trailed him by four points. The statewide margin of error is 2.5 percentage points. "This poll just confirms what we've known from the beginning, that voters know and support the congresswoman, and that she is in the best position to defeat whoever emerges from the Republican primary," Rimal told Hearst Newspapers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Talarico's campaign declined to comment, but the Austin Democrat has been aggressively using TV and digital ads to narrow the gap with Crockett, who the Hobby poll and other surveys have shown is the better known of the two candidates. The poll also asked Republican voters about their preference if no candidate wins the primary outright and it goes to a runoff. There, respondents favored Paxton over Cornyn, 51% to 40%, and Paxton over Hunt 56% to 33%. Cornyn holds a 46% to 39% lead over Hunt. James Kyrkanides, a spokesman for the Hunt campaign, called the poll "an interesting snapshot," but pointed to other surveys that show his candidate running much stronger in the GOP field. He did point out that the Hobby poll showed Hunt doing better than his opponents in one-on-one match-ups with both Democrats. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Among general election voters, Wesley Hunt once again outperforms both John Cornyn and Ken Paxton," Kyrkanides said in an email. "This has been consistent since the day Hunt entered the race in October. The data keeps saying the same thing." Matt Mackowiak, a spokesman for Cornyn, said survey results have varied over the course of the race, which he said is likely to be decided in a runoff between the incumbent and Paxton, "We're not living and dying with every with every single poll," Mackowiak said. Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, shown last summer at a rally supporting immigrants, described herself as a pragmatist who's also willing to be a firebrand when needed. Jessica Phelps/San Antonio Express-News The dilemma for Democrats in the solidly Republican Legislature is whether to take impassioned stands on losing votes or focus on incremental work, scraping out modest wins in the margins of the possible. Immigration attorney and community advocate Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch struck us as someone who can make a real impact in both lanes: a pragmatist who understands when its time to meet in the middle and when its time to go down swinging. That earned her our recommendation in the crowded March 3 Democratic primary for the Texas House District 50 seat held by state Rep. James Talarico, whos running for U.S. Senate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At the end of the day, I want to actually get things done, Lincoln-Goldfinch told our Editorial Board. Will I be a firebrand and create viral moments and be really loud when the Lege is doing racist stuff? Yes, Im capable of that. But I dont intend to be that type of legislator. I intend to actually make friends where I can and get stuff done. She said that starts with building arguments around data not competing emotional narratives to show where a policy would serve common interests. And years of legal work have shown her the importance of focusing on the solutions needed now, not debating the origins of the problem. That strategic outlook is a defining feature in a race where the candidates largely share the same policy goals: expanding Medicaid, boosting school funding, promoting more affordable housing, supporting immigrants and unwinding abortion restrictions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This open seat in Northeast Austin drew a highly qualified crop of candidates who did not make our endorsement decision easy. Samantha Lopez-Resendez, who served as chief of staff to state Rep. Donna Howard, impressed us with her legislative acumen and personal perspective. I am running as a woman of reproductive age, a former bilingual educator and a proud daughter of immigrants, all three of which are issues currently under attack right now, Lopez-Resendez told our board. Jeremy Hendricks, a longtime labor leader and community advocate, is a seasoned negotiator and coalition-builder who would also make an effective lawmaker in his case, focused on issues affecting Texas workers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rounding out the field are John Hash, who has worked as a youth outreach coordinator; information technology specialist William Rannefeld; and Nathan Boynton, who comes from a small business sales background. Whoever wins the Democratic primary will face Republican Howard Olsen in November. District 50 voters have several strong options. But Lincoln-Goldfinch stands out for bringing the right balance of urgency and realism to a Legislature where progress depends on both. In 2024 Donald J. Trump pulled off one of the biggest, most surprising political comebacks in American history. By assembling a broad coalition around core conservative principles like free speech, cutting waste and abuse, prioritizing merit over identity, and most notably, strict enforcement of federal immigration law, he won the day and brought in first-time Trump voters (including yours truly). In less than a year, the far right has destroyed that coalition, and Republicans seem to be catering to the basest of the base. Instead of maintaining focus on the tens of millions of people who are in our country illegally, the GOP is attacking legal immigration, most notably the H-1B visa. First, we saw Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis freeze use of the visa at universities and state institutions in his state, saying that jobs in Florida should go to Floridians. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And now Gov. Greg Abbott has announced a one-year pause on new H-1B petitions at Texas universities to enable a state-level investigation into abuse of the program. Texas institutions are required to provide detailed information about the number of petitions filed, the nationality of the sponsored workers, the job duties they are assigned, and evidence that U.S. workers had a reasonable opportunity to apply for these roles (which is not a requirement under federal law). Abbotts move is short-sighted and will end up hurting Texans. For example, University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas, is the primary teaching hospital for Texas Tech Universitys Health Sciences Center and the only Level I Trauma Center for hundreds of miles. University Medical Center relies on foreign physicians and nurses to staff the hospital, as well as its affiliated clinics in Odessa and Midland. In Houston, MD Anderson Cancer Center did not become one of the best in the world by limiting hiring to native Texans, and they leverage the H-1B via their connection to the University of Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas universities also hire H-1B workers to do advanced medical research. This is not abuse. Its about ensuring that Texans have access to quality medical care, whether they are in a large city or a rural town. The GOPs move against legal immigrants is a baffling development. For decades, the conservative position on immigration was simple: Come legally, follow the law, and you are welcome. Ronald Reagan famously noted that anyone, from any corner of the Earth, can come to live in America and become an American. That ethos defines the American dream. It is what makes this nation exceptional and, well, great. Advertisement Article continues below this ad To the extent that Donald Trump entered office with a mandate, it was to enforce existing immigration law without fear or favor. A majority of Americans believed the situation at the border was a major problem, and it was. The Biden administrations dereliction of duty created a disaster of epic proportions, and Trump won in large part on a promise to correct it. Turning on those who have followed the law is an inexcusable betrayal of the promise of Trump's campaign and the coalition that he built. When progressives attack ICE or oppose removals, they do not suffer from a delusion that deportations are illegal. They believe deportations are bad, that the law itself is rotten and thus should not be enforced (or at least, not by Donald Trump). When MAGA attacks legal immigrants, similar reasoning applies. They do not think the H-1B visa is against the law. They believe that the program is a scam, that the law itself is rotten and thus should not be honored (or at least, not by Donald Trump). Advertisement Article continues below this ad MAGA seems to believe if they could just deport all the Indian nationals with H-1Bs, every U.S. graduate would have a high-paying job at Google. Housing and food prices would drop. The McRib would come back. America would be great again. They are tilting at windmills, and if they do not correct course, it will cost them. Given last years elections in New Jersey and Virginia, perhaps it already has. If the GOP continues to insist that there is no distinction between legal and illegal migrants, expect major gains for Democrats in 2026. Roshen not to raise prices despite destruction of its largest logistics center in Russian attack The largest logistics center of confectionery corporation Roshen in Yahotyn, Kyiv region, was almost completely destroyed in a Russian attack overnight on Feb. 7, the company's press service reported. According to the official statement, there were no casualties among personnel, as all employees were in shelters during the strike. Emergency Service units continue to work at the site to eliminate the consequences of the fire. The corporation said that despite significant destruction of the finished goods warehouse and related losses, prices for Roshen products will remain stable. The logistics hub is currently transitioning to round-the-clock operations. Ukraine's fifth president Petro Poroshenko, commenting on the attack on the facility on his Telegram channel, stressed that Russian strikes are aimed at destroying Ukraine's economy and logistics. "Russia wants our fatigue. It wants fear. It wants to break us economically and psychologically when it cannot do so on the battlefield. But every time after such attacks we see something else. We see resilience. We see dignity," he wrote. Member of Parliament Oleksiy Honcharenko (European Solidarity faction), who published footage from the scene on Telegram, stressed the absence of any military facilities at the center. "The warehouses look like this. There is no military equipment there. Once again, the business of one of the largest private sponsors of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is under attack," he wrote, adding that from now on "the Russians are also waging war against sweets." According to the corporation, during the full-scale invasion it has paid more than UAH 21.6 billion in taxes to budgets at all levels. As reported, the Roshen confectionery factory in Kyiv had also previously been targeted by a Russian strike. According to NPC Ukrenergo, the combined attack on February 7 also caused a deficit in the power system due to damage to generation and distribution facilities. Roshen ranked 27th among the world's largest confectionery manufacturers in 2025. The corporation includes the Kyiv, Kremenchuk, and two Vinnytsia confectionery factories, as well as the Vinnytsia dairy plant and the biscuit complex in Boryspil (Ukraine); the Klaipeda confectionery factory (Lithuania); and the Bonbonetti Choco factory (Hungary). Production at the Lipetsk factory (Russia) has been suspended since April 1, 2017. The corporation produces about 320 types of confectionery products. Total production volume is approximately 300,000 tons of products per year. Roshen's branded retail network in Ukraine includes about 70 stores in various regions of the country. The first store opened in Kyiv in 2009. The ultimate beneficiary of the company is Oleksiy Poroshenko, the son of Ukraine's fifth president (20142019), currently a member of parliament and leader of the European Solidarity party, Petro Poroshenko. Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin have signed a Letter of Intent on joint production of weapons in Ukraine and France. "Together with the Minister of the Armed Forces of France, Catherine Vautrin signed a Letter of Intent on joint production of weapons in Ukraine and France. This paves the way for large-scale joint projects in the field of the defense-industrial complex. We are moving from supplies to joint production and long-term solutions that systematically strengthen our defense," Fedorov wrote in a telegram. The Minister noted that the French side reported on preparations for the transfer of Mirage 2000 aircraft to Ukraine. "We also discussed accelerating the supply of aircraft and continuing work on record volumes of AASM Hammer guided aerial bombs. Ukraine is interested in further supplies of SAMP/T, Mistral and Crotale systems, as well as ammunition for them. We proposed to work together on improving SAMP/T to more effectively counter ballistic threats. In parallel, cooperation is ongoing on the supply and acceleration of production of Aster missiles," Fedorov informed. Separately, the parties discussed the provision of long-range weapons, in particular SCALP missiles. "We focused on joint projects between the governments and defense companies of Ukraine and France: testing security solutions and developing innovative electronic warfare systems. We also agreed on key priorities for defense cooperation and discussed financing joint projects, in particular with the help of a European Union loan and the SAFE program," the Minister emphasized. Fedorov thanked France for its consistent political and military support for Ukraine. "This partnership directly strengthens our defense and the security of all of Europe," he added. The loss of biodiversity is among the most serious threats to business, said Prof. Stephen Polasky, Professor at University of Minnesota and co-chair of the assessment. Yet the twisted reality is that it often seems more profitable to businesses to degrade biodiversity than to protect it. Global economic growth has come at the expense of nature, resulting in major losses of biodiversity. These losses now pose significant risks to the economy, financial stability, and business, according to an IPBES assessment presented on 9 February 2026. IPBES, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services is the biodiversity equivalent of the UNs climate panel, the IPCC. As companies, what you need to do now is to consider nature as something real, both in your impact and in your risks. Because at some point, degraded ecosystems will become such a risk that certain things will become uninsurable, says Beatrice Crona, Centre researcher who has co-authored one of the reports chapters. The preparation of the report took three years, involved 79 experts from 35 countries, including Centre researchers Beatrice Crona, Lisen Schultz, Daniel Itzamna Avila Ortega and former Centre researcher Niak Sian Koh, and happened in consultation with Indigenous Peoples and local communities. It was co-chaired by among others Stephen Polasky, Professor at University of Minnesota, who is part of the Centres International Science Advisory Council. The new report provides a solid basis for better decision-making, says Centre researcher Lisen Schultz, who has co-authored one of the reports chapters. The messages have been approved by both scientists and member countries from across the world, creating a shared foundation to rely on. The current destructive business-nature relationship has arisen because economic trade-offs have consistently undervalued natures importance. All companies depend on materials and services from ecosystems, but they rarely have to pay for the damage their activities cause to nature. Dangerous incentives The report places strong emphasis on the context in which companies operate. These include laws and regulations, finance and economics, norms and values, technology and data, capacity and knowledge, all of which currently incentivize private short-term profits at the expense of ecosystems. As an example, in 2023, global public spending on environmentally harmful subsidies amounted to about USD 2.4 trillion, topped up by another USD 4.9 trillion from private finance. In contrast, activities that contribute to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity received only USD 220 billion from both public and private sources. That is as little as 3% of the environmentally harmful subsidies. Enabling environment The report emphasises that, with the right policies, as well as financial and cultural shifts, business can be transformed so that what is good for nature is also what is best for profitability, as Stephen Polasky puts it. One of the key ways to getting there is better measurements and analysis of impacts and dependencies. The report finds that less than 1 percent of publicly listed companies track their impacts on nature. Tools for measuring such impacts exist, and the report includes a methodology for them, as well as lists of actions that businesses and other actors can take now to address their impacts and dependencies, or enable environments for transformative business. The Business and biodiversity assessment was agreed on and published at the twelfth session of the IPBES Plenary in Manchester. IPBES is an intergovernmental platform and does not operate under any international convention or agreement. Its goal is to strengthen the interaction between science and policy to promote the conservation and sustainable use of nature, plants, and animals. High schoolers help younger students conduct basic experiments on Science Day at Humphreys High School in Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Feb. 7, 2026. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea High schoolers on this U.S. Army base south of Seoul turned their gym into a hands-on science lab over the weekend, giving elementary-aged children a chance to explore experiments, robotics demonstrations and interactive STEM activities. Humphreys High School students organized and led the event as a community outreach effort and service project, gaining leadership and communication experience while introducing younger students from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade to science concepts through hands-on learning. The event has grown quickly since its inception three years ago, prompting organizers to expand the number of science stations and improve planning to accommodate larger crowds, said physics teacher Cheryl Loken, a sponsor for the Science National Honor Society and the schools Robotics Club. Last year, we prepared for maybe about 100 kids, and we had over 200 students, she told Stars and Stripes during Saturdays event. This year, we have 27 stations and eight robots, and were expecting over 200 students. Loken on Monday estimated that 450 people attended Saturdays event. High schoolers help younger students conduct basic experiments on Science Day at Humphreys High School in Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Feb. 7, 2026. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes) The gymnasium floor was filled with tables offering simple, hands-on experiments, with high-schoolers serving as facilitators rather than demonstrators so younger students could do the mixing, building and testing themselves. We make sure theres no hard chemicals just vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, water, milk, sugar, Loken said. Some of the students dont know how to read, so all the instructions are like six steps or less. The event lets younger students experience science in a way that feels fun and accessible, said Sophia Baek, a junior and president of the Science National Honor Society at Humphreys High. Theres 27 experiments in the gym, and were allowing elementary school students to experience different fields of science, she said. Its like a bunch of fun experiences. High schoolers help younger students conduct basic experiments on Science Day at Humphreys High School in Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Feb. 7, 2026. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes) Foam reactions, slime-making and other visually engaging experiments quickly became favorites, drawing children back to stations multiple times, Baek said. Military organizations also participated, helping link science, technology, engineering and math learning to real-world careers. Representatives from the dental clinic and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers engaged with families throughout the day. Baek said the most rewarding part was seeing younger students become excited about science, and realizing older students can shape how children view learning. Its really sort of endearing that we get to share our passions, and see them help future scientists, she said. No matter how hard pursuing science can be, you should always follow your dreams. Members of U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) patrol the San Francisco Bay during Fleet Week, Oct 12, 2025. (Joel LaVallee/U.S. Coast Guard) (Tribune News Service) Two rescue efforts were launched in two days in Santa Cruz, Calif., as recreators took to the ocean amid dangerously high waves. On Saturday morning, a boat with six occupants was seen racing through Steamer Lane, a popular surfing spot near downtown Santa Cruz. Video showed the boat passing dangerously close to surfers, looking like it was headed straight toward the shoreline. A large wave then barreled over the small craft, toppling it over and into the rushing surf. At the time, a high-surf advisory was in effect from the National Weather Service. Forecasters warned that perilous waves of 17 to 22 feet were possible. Lifeguards, nearby surfers and Santa Cruz firefighters rushed in to help, ultimately locating all six occupants of the craft. Although several victims were without life jackets, all six were rescued onto the awaiting Harbor Patrol and Auxiliary boats, city spokesperson Katie Lee said. They were then transported to a local hospital for treatment. The high surf conditions have drawn surfers to the region throughout the weekend. On Friday evening, not far from the site of the capsizing, witnesses heard two surfers in distress yelling for help, the Coast Guard said in a press release. Multiple agencies responded to the area near the Santa Cruz Lighthouse to search for the two surfers, but after combing through 90 miles of ocean for over 10 hours, the search was suspended. The decision to suspend a search weighs heavily on all crews involved, Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator Michael Zapawa said in a press release. That decision is based on careful evaluation of all available information, including extensive search efforts, environmental conditions, and survivability assessments. Its not clear if the surfers safely made it back to shore or did indeed disappear. There are no missing person reports for surfers, the Coast Guard said. Anyone with information is asked to contact their San Francisco command center at 415-399-7399. 2026 SFGate, San Francisco. Visit www.sfgate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Employees of the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) have exposed and blocked a large-scale corruption scheme during the supply of food for combat units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Dnipropetrovsk region. "According to the investigation, the organizer of the transaction was the head of the food service of one of the military units. He acted in collusion with the founder and commercial director of the enterprise supplying food to the Armed Forces of Ukraine," the SBI website said in a statement on Monday. According to the agency, the essence of the scheme was so-called non-commodity transactions. "Officials signed acceptance and transfer certificates for the full volume of products, while in fact only part of it was delivered to the military units. The rest of the products were written off through controlled persons," the Bureau noted. In addition to underdeliveries, as the agency specifies, the quality of the actually imported products did not meet the established requirements. "In particular, rotten vegetables and fruits were supplied to the servicemen, including for units that performed tasks in active areas of the front," the SBI emphasized. According to the report, for accepting low-quality products and not sending complaint letters, the head of the food service received an illegal cash benefit. "The amount of kickbacks reached up to 50% of the cost of supplies. In just one week, the amount of illegal payments could exceed UAH 1 million," the report states. According to the SBI, the defendant used the funds received for personal enrichment: he purchased real estate in two residential complexes, purchased several premium cars and other expensive items, registering the property in the names of close relatives. During the searches, cars, documents for luxury real estate, a collection of branded clothing, shoes and accessories with an estimated value of over UAH 8 million, as well as promissory notes for $120,000 were seized from the suspect. The head of the food service was detained and reported on suspicion under Part 3 of Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (fraud), Part 2 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (receiving an illegal benefit by an official) and Part 4 of Article 409 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (evasion of military service under martial law). His subordinate from the food service of the logistics rear was also reported on suspicion. According to the investigation, she received cash from suppliers for writing off low-quality products and transferred part of the funds to the head. The Dnipro Specialized Prosecutors Office in the Field of Defense of the Eastern Region is responsible for the procedural management. Marines assigned to Camp Blaz hike to Tarague Beach on Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Jan. 9, 2026. (Afton Smiley/U.S. Marine Corps) A new report from a U.S. foreign policy think tank is urging Washington to renegotiate a decades-old agreement with Japan to reduce the Marine Corps presence on Okinawa, arguing that the deal should instead be reversed to strengthen deterrence against China. The report, released Feb. 3 by the Atlantic Council, recommends keeping about 5,000 Marines on Okinawa rather than relocating them to Guam and retaining the Corps airfield in densely populated central Okinawa along with a replacement runaway under construction farther north. The authors call for reversing the Defense Policy Review Initiative, or DPRI, a 20-year-old U.S.-Japan agreement aimed at reducing the U.S. military footprint on Okinawa by moving thousands of Marines to Guam. The report was written by Lt. Col. Caleb Eames, a senior Marine Corps fellow at the council, and Amy Cowley, assistant director for the Forward Defense program at the councils Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security. They argue the initiative weakens U.S. deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. The plan would give Chinese military planners exactly what they want a removal of U.S. forces from the locations where they would be most essential in a First Island Chain conflict, the authors write. Eames and Cowley recommend retaining Marine Corps Air Station Futenma while completing the replacement facility under construction at Camp Schwab. They also propose temporary Marine deployments to Yonaguni, Japans westernmost inhabited island, about 70 miles from Taiwan. The recommendations are sound and necessary, said retired Marine Col. Grant Newsham, a senior researcher with the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies in Tokyo. China (and North Korea and Russia) are far more of a threat than they were 20 years ago when the deal was negotiated, he wrote Monday in an email to Stars and Stripes. As part of the initiative, about 100 logistics support troops from III Marine Expeditionary Force moved from Okinawa to Guam last year. The 210-square-mile U.S. territory is projected to grow from about 17,000 service members to roughly 24,000 by fiscal year 2033. The authors also argue that crime concerns often cited to justify reducing the Marine presence have diminished, noting that U.S. military crime rates on Okinawa are now far lower than in decades past. They cite an October 2024 Stars and Stripes report that found six felony cases linked to the U.S. military community on Okinawa that year the highest tally in 16 years but noted the figure ran counter to a broader, decades-long decline in crime on the island. The cases included four sexual assaults three indictments and two convictions that sparked public outrage and prompted U.S. Forces Japan to tighten liberty restrictions, including a ban on service members drinking off base between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. As incentives for renegotiation, Eames and Cowley suggest exempting Okinawa from U.S. tariffs and repurposing Marine facilities built on Guam for Army use. Any change would require senior officials in President Donald Trumps administration to recognize the dangers of continuing with the current plan, Newsham said. He added that strong vested interests including Japanese companies and politicians benefiting from construction projects tied to the relocation support keeping the agreement intact. Defense ministry officials from China and South Korea convene in Beijing on Feb. 5, 2026, for the countries 21st working-level policy meeting. (South Korea Ministry of National Defense) China and South Korea have discussed resuming joint maritime search-and-rescue drills that have been suspended for about 15 years, according to the Souths Ministry of National Defense. Working-level policy talks between officials from both nations defense ministries took place Thursday in Beijing, according to a news release issued by the South Korean ministry that day. China and South Korea began the humanitarian drills in the Yellow Sea known was the West Sea on the Korean Peninsula in 2005. Follow-on exercises were held in 2007, 2008 and 2022 before the series was curtailed, according to a Thursday report by Yonhap News Agency. The exercises ended in a period of strained relations between the two countries following a strengthened U.S.-South Korea exercise and the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense, or THAAD, system from the United States, according to Jan. 8 report by the Kukmin Ilbo. The drills were intended to promote humanitarian maritime cooperation, improve safety and expand military exchanges aimed at strengthening relations, the report said. Thursdays talks were led by Lee Kwang-suk, director general of South Koreas Defense Ministry International Policy Bureau, and his Chinese counterpart, Guo Hongtao, according to the news release. Lee urged China to play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability on the peninsula and outlined South Koreas concerns over Chinese military activity in the Korea Air Defense Identification Zone, the ministry said. Those concerns followed a Dec. 9 incident in which nine Chinese and Russian military aircraft fighters, bombers and a surveillance plane entered the zone. South Korea scrambled its own fighters and lodged formal protests with military officials from both countries. Chinas defense ministry later described the flight with Russia as its 10th joint strategic air patrol over the East China Sea and Western Pacific. Thursdays meeting marked the first in-person working-level defense talks between Seoul and Beijing in four years. The last such engagement was an online meeting in June 2022, according to the South Korean ministrys release. The two sides first began holding working-level defense talks in 1995. Officials agreed to restore defense cooperation, expand its scope and revive dormant channels for strategic military communication through continued discussions, the release said. The ministry said it hopes the talks will rebuild defense exchanges based on horizontal and reciprocal principles between both countries and lay the foundation of trust between the militaries. The announcement came a week after South Korea and Japan agreed to resume joint naval search-and-rescue exercises for the first time in nine years. That series, which began in 1999, was suspended in 2017 amid strained relations between the two countries. NATO foreign ministers meet at alliance headquarters in Brussels on Dec. 3, 2025. The Defense Departments policy chief, Elbridge Colby, will be on hand this week to inform allies about future U.S. military plans in Europe. (NATO) STUTTGART, Germany The Pentagons top strategist is headed to NATO headquarters later this week where he will inform allies about future U.S. military plans in Europe, the top American official at NATO said Monday. Defense Department policy chief Elbridge Colby will attend the alliances ministerial Thursday in lieu of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who is skipping the event. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker called Colby the perfect person to talk about the defense strategy in depth and how the U.S. lays down in Europe right now and about capabilities that may need to be ultimately transitioned out of Europe. Whitakers comments came during a forum in Munich, where global security leaders are headed on Friday for three days of high-level security discussions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the American delegation at the Munich Security Conference. In Europe, there has been much anticipation about the Pentagons plans. Colby, who has long been an advocate for shifting some military capabilities out of Europe, has frequently made the case that allies must carry the bulk of the security burden on the Continent so the U.S. can dedicate more resources to other regions. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, left, participates in a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon on June 6, 2025. Colby is speaking with NATO leaders next week about future U.S. military plans in Europe, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said Monday. (Kashif Basharat/Defense Department) So far, however, no major announcements have been made on future U.S. force levels in Europe. The meetings at NATO headquarters and the subsequent annual gathering in Munich come at a time of anxiety in parts of Europe about American military commitments. On Monday, officials with the Munich Security Conference unveiled their lengthy annual report and theme for this years conference, dubbed Under Destruction. The world has entered a period of wrecking-ball politics, the report states. Sweeping destruction rather than careful reforms and policy corrections is the order of the day. The post-Cold War order, largely organized, upheld and enforced by the United States, is now under destruction, the report asserts. For decades, Europe thrived under an American security umbrella that allowed it to prioritize integration and prosperity over hard power. That era has ended, the report says. It goes on to cite growing doubts in Europe about U.S. commitment to NATO. For example, 66% of Germans polled say the United States has become a less reliable NATO ally over the last six months, according to new MSC polling released Monday in tandem with its report. Whitaker, however, pushed back against the reports overall narrative that the U.S. is upending the world order. I completely reject everything I just heard, Whitaker told the audience. In the case of NATO, Whitaker said President Donald Trump remains committed to the alliance. Trumps demand that members increase their individual defense spending is about making the military pact stronger, he said. We are not trying to dismantle NATO, he added. Whitaker described the U.S. approach as tough love in a family and said Europe needs to outgrow its military dependency. When your kids are young, theyre dependent on you. But eventually you expect them to get a job, Whitaker said. And so to me, thats where we are. We still love them. Youre still allies. He credited allies for agreeing to step up their investments in their respective militaries but also said the U.S. wants to see follow through on turning those expenditures into hard power. One of the things that Ive noticed in my time here in Europe is there is a lot of discussion and not a lot of action, he said. But Whitaker singled out Germany, a long-time laggard on defense spending, for turning things around. Now, to be fair, the Germans very much are about action, Whitaker said. Your other allies and our other allies are not always about action. Theyre more about words. Palestinians patients and their relatives gather to board a bus in Khan Younis before they head to the Rafah crossing, leaving the Gaza Strip for medical treatment abroad, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP) CAIRO A limited number of Palestinians traveled between Gaza and Egypt on Sunday as the Rafah crossing reopened after a two-day closure, Egyptian state media reported. The vital border point opened last week for the first time since mid-2024, one of the main requirements for the U.S.-backed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The crossing was closed Friday and Saturday because of confusion around operations. The Palestinian Red Crescent said 17 medical evacuees and 27 companions had begun the crossing into Egypt. The same number was expected to head into Gaza. Israel didnt immediately confirm it. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday, though the major subject of discussion will be Iran, his office said. Delays and mistreatment accusations Over the first four days of the crossings opening, just 36 Palestinians requiring medical care were allowed to leave for Egypt, plus 62 companions, according to U.N. data. Rafahs reopening came after Israel retrieved the remains of the last hostage in Gaza and U.S. officials visited Israel to apply pressure. Palestinian officials say nearly 20,000 people in Gaza seek to leave for medical care that isnt available in the war-shattered territory. A group of Palestinian patients gathered Sunday in the courtyard of a Red Crescent hospital in Gazas southern city of Khan Younis before making their way to the crossing for treatment abroad, family members told The Associated Press. Amjad Abu Jedian, injured in the war, had been scheduled to leave for medical treatment on the first day of the crossings reopening, but only five patients were allowed to travel, said his mother, Raja Abu Jedian. He was shot by an Israeli sniper while doing building work in the central Bureij refugee camp in July 2024, she said. On Saturday, his family received a call from the World Health Organization about traveling on Sunday, she said. We want them to take care of the patients (during their evacuation), she said. We want the Israeli military not to burden them. Returning to Gaza A group of Palestinians arrived Sunday at the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing to return to Gaza, Egypts state-run Al-Qahera News satellite television reported. Palestinians who returned to Gaza in the first few days of the crossings operation described hours of delays and invasive searches by Israeli authorities and an Israeli-backed Palestinian armed group, Abu Shabab. Israel has denied mistreatment. A European Union mission and Palestinian officials run the border crossing, and Israel has its screening facility some distance away. The Rafah crossing, a lifeline for Gaza, was the only one not controlled by Israel before the war. Israel seized the Palestinian side in May 2024, though traffic through the crossing was heavily restricted even before that. Restrictions negotiated by Israeli, Egyptian, Palestinian and international officials mean that only 50 people will be allowed to return to Gaza each day and 50 medical patients with two companions for each will be allowed to leave, but far fewer people have crossed so far. Hamas negotiations A senior Hamas official, Khaled Mashaal, said the militant group is open to discuss the future of its weapons as part of a balanced approach that includes the reconstruction of Gaza and protecting the Palestinian enclave from Israel. Such issues are central in the ceasefires second phase. Mashaal said the group has offered multiple options, including a long-term truce, as part of ongoing negotiations with Egyptian, Qatari and Turkish mediators. Hamas plans to agree to a number of guarantees, including a 10-year period of disarmament and an international peacekeeping force on Gazas borders, to maintain peace and prevent any clashes between the militants and Israel, Mashaal said at a forum in Qatar. Israel has repeatedly demanded the complete disarmament and dismantling of Hamas and its infrastructure, both military and civil. Mashaal accused Israel of financing and arming militias, like the Abu Shabab group which operates in Israeli military-controlled areas in Gaza, to create chaos. Mashaal was asked about Hamas position on the new Board of Peace, a Trump-led group of world leaders that is expected to meet for the first time Feb. 19 to raise money for Gazas reconstruction. He didnt offer a specific answer but said the group wont accept foreign intervention in Palestinian affairs. Gaza is for the people of Gaza. Palestinians are for the people of Palestine, he said. We will not accept foreign rule. Lidman reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. This photo combo shows from left, trooper Hunter R. Bennett and pilot Robert Bruce Skankey. (Arizona Department Of Public Safety/AP) Arizona law enforcement officers mourned a veteran U.S. Marine pilot and a trooper paramedic Friday while the cause of a helicopter crash that killed them during a police shootout with a domestic violence suspect in Flagstaff remained under investigation. Police alleged the suspect, identified Friday as Terrell Storey, 50, fired on officers from multiple rooftops in Flagstaff over almost two hours Wednesday night. He was captured at about the same time as the helicopter crash and remained hospitalized Friday with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Storey faces charges including two counts of first-degree murder and 10 counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement. He was being held on $5 million cash-only bond and was to be booked into jail after being released from the hospital, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The case has not yet appeared in the state online court records system and it was not clear whether Storey had an attorney who could comment on his behalf. The helicopter crew had been playing a common role, helping officers on the ground, Arizona Department of Public Safety Director Col. Jeffrey Glover said. They have the ability of getting eyes and ears up top, he said. They have a very important role when they are running their missions. What caused the helicopter to crash was under active investigation by agencies including the National Transportation Safety Board, Glover said. No one on the helicopter had opened fire, Glover said. The Bell 407 helicopter was functioning just fine when it was most recently inspected on Jan. 29, Glover said. Glover declined to say more about possible causes, such as whether gunfire or a drone may have struck it. It would be just really irresponsible for us to speculate at this time. We have to allow for NTSB to conduct their investigation to figure out exactly what has occurred, Glover said. Trooper Hunter Bennett, 28, and pilot Robert Skankey, 61, were killed. The confrontation began when officers responded to a domestic violence call, Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly said Thursday. As the officers spoke with the victim in the front yard, the suspect shot at them from the back of the residence with a semiautomatic rifle. A protracted gunbattle ensued, with the unidentified suspect hopping from roof to roof in the neighborhood while shooting at officers. The police chief described the neighborhood as under siege while the suspect shot at officers and into homes. The suspect was taken to a hospital with nonfatal gunshot wounds. Connolly indicated three Flagstaff police officers and one Department of Public Safety employee fired their weapons during the confrontation. Skankey was a longtime resident of Kingman, Arizona, city officials said in a statement. He had been hired by the Arizona Department of Public Safety in May 2021 and previously served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was married and had four children, Glover said. Bennett was an honors graduate of Arizona State University and the top graduate of his 2023 Arizona Law Enforcement Academy class. He transferred to an air rescue unit in 2024 and months later married his high school sweetheart, officials said. Aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti, who used to investigate crashes for the NTSB and Federal Aviation Administration, said the flight data suggested a possible a mechanical problem or pilot disorientation but that it was too soon to know for certain. The NTSB has investigated 26 fatal accidents involving Bell 407 helicopters over the past 20 years. Three involved mechanical problems. Im not aware of any bad reputation for this helicopter, Guzzetti said. Before crashing, the helicopter was making a pass back to the shootout scene when it slowed to almost a hover about 1,000 feet over a hilltop, Guzzetti noted from public flight-path data. The last moments of flight after crossing over an unpopulated area didnt seem consistent with being hit by a drone or gunfire, Guzzetti said. If that were so, he said, the pilot likely would have been able to radio that information in and attempt to land somewhere. Everything up until the last minute of flight seemed normal in terms of the altitude and airspeed. After it made that turn is when things become curious to me, Guzzetti said. Under a pilot program launched last month at Fort Riley, soldiers living in barracks, will be able to take advantage of free Wi-Fi. (1st Infantry Division/Facebook) The Armys first effort to deliver free wireless internet to soldiers living in barracks part of a military-wide mandate has exceeded expectations among troops at Fort Riley, Kan. In less than one month, 807 soldiers have signed up for the free service, said Maj. Guster Cunningham, 1st Infantry Division spokesman. Thats above the 769 sign-ups anticipated at this point in the pilot program involving 11 barracks buildings. We believe Fort Riley is the best place to live, raise a family, deploy and return to in this region. The provision of free Wi-Fi that works helps send a clear message to our soldiers who reside in the barracks; we are committed to improving their quality of life at Fort Riley, Cunningham said in a statement. The Army launched the pilot program in January in response to a congressional mandate to get broadband internet access to the junior enlisted troops in unaccompanied housing as part of the fiscal year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, an annual law that lays out Pentagon priorities. The other military services, too, have begun to meet the requirement with the Navy the furthest along in the process. It has free Wi-Fi available at roughly 88% of its unaccompanied housing and expects to reach nearly all barracks by the end of 2027, according to Navy Installations Command. The next bases in line for internet are Naval Support Activity Naples and Naval Air Station Sigonella in Italy and Naval Support Activity Souda Bay in Greece, said Destiny Sibert, spokeswoman for Navy Installations Command. Exact dates are still pending finalized contracts. As of Dec. 31, 78% of residents in participating buildings were enrolled in the free Wi-Fi program, Sibert said. Sailors can also upgrade for a fee to get faster download speeds though about 68% stick with the free plan, she said. The Air Force has a plan in development that would get internet service to dorms about 20% of its bases by the end of September, said Laurel Falls, spokeswoman for the Air and Space Forces. This would include Wi-Fi in common spaces of unaccompanied housing. The Air Force would add 25% coverage in fiscal year 2027 and the remaining installations in the following year, she said. The DAF is committed to accelerating this schedule where it can. Internet connectivity will ensure residents can pursue educational opportunities, manage personal administrative tasks, and stay connected with friends and family, among other things, Falls said. The Marine Corps said it is developing its plan as well. Next in the Army for a pilot program is Fort Wainwright, Alaska, in the spring, the service said. The effort will test bringing Wi-Fi to a remote and isolated environment. Soldiers in permanent-party barracks across the United States can expect to start seeing free Wi-Fi plans around 2027, pending funding, the Army said. Fighters from the International Battalion of the 12th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine Azov cleared the village of Zoloty Kolodiaz in Dobropillia community of Pokrovsk district of Donetsk region from occupiers. "Abandoned to their fate, the occupiers spent months holed up in the basements and burrows of this village in Dobropillia axis. To finally eliminate enemy resistance, fighters from the Interbattalion of the 12th Azov Brigade took up the task of clearing the area. In just one day of the operation, they managed to capture 18 Russian Armed Forces servicemen," reads a message posted on the National Guard of Ukraine Telegram channel. According to a video released along with the announcement, the Russians were surrounded, without communication, and cut off from supplies for approximately four months. Four Bradley infantry fighting vehicles and large Ukrainian hexacopter attack drones, likely Vampire models, participated in the assault on Interbat. Among other servicemen, the platoon commander, a Russian Army officer, was captured. As the deputy commander of the Interbattalion, call sign Beretta, noted, the operation to liberate Zoloty Kolodiaz lasted 21 days. Storms Leonardo and Marta have eased their grip on Andalucia after a week of relentless and intense rainfall, which led to the preventive evacuation of 11,000 people. The improvement in weather conditions has allowed the gradual return of evacuees to their homes and the stabilisation of river flows and the dam network. According to the confederation of the Guadalquivir river (CHG), even the state of the biggest water basin in Andalucia is slowly improving, with an expected decrease in its flow throughout Monday. Despite the optimistic forecast, the Guadalquivir remains under a red alert at all points of its passage through the region. Reservoirs have time to recover their safety thresholds before the new rains in the coming days. Stabilisation is allowing the return of the more than 11,000 people who have had to leave their homes so far. Even with the return of the 724 evacuees in Cordoba's flood zones, the number remains above 9,000. Other people who can return home are the 660 residents of Dona Blanca (Cadiz) thanks to the improvement in the water level of the Guadalete. A further 177 residents of the town of Dudar (Granada) have also returned to their homes, as have 180 people from the town of El Secadero (Malaga) and San Martin del Tesorillo (Cadiz). The two successive storms have so far recorded a total of 10,613 incidents, with the province of Cadiz accounting for most of them (2,215), followed by Seville (1,893), Jaen (1,818), Granada (1,441), Malaga (1,066), Cordoba (1,009), Almeria (690) and Huelva (481). Schools are also reopening on Monday in most of Andalucia, with the exception of a couple of municipalities in Malaga province and five in Cadiz, amounting to a total of 96 schools that remain closed. Road closures, infrastructure damage and flood risks still pose a challenge to transport and safety in some areas. On Sunday, regional minister of emergencies Antonio Sanz said that the damage Andalucia is facing in the aftermath of the storm is "brutal", with special emphasis on the "destruction of roads and homes" - the regional government's main concern. Spain's First Deputy PM Maria Jesus Montero also stated that the governmental bodies responsible for handling such damages will "do their best". During her visit in Villafranca (Cordoba), she said that "each institution should evaluate and prioritise everything it has within its remit so that affected families can recover as soon as possible and damaged infrastructure be repaired". Monday, 9 February 2026, 15:48 Share The regional government of Andalucia (the Junta) has removed 13,037 tourist rentals from its official register thanks to a "comprehensive strategy of control, regulation and management". Of these, 4,731 dwellings are located in Malaga province. According to regional minister of tourism Arturo Bernal, this proves that the Junta's policy "guarantees coexistence between residents and visitors, while at the same time establishing mechanisms to combat illegal activity". Thanks to this new framework, local councils can suspend licences and declarations of responsibility for tourist accommodation for up to three years. The review of cancellations by province is as follows: Malaga, with 4,731 cancellations (1,385 in the city), Granada, 2,138 (1,198 in the city), Cadiz, 1,836 (484 in the city), Seville, 1,468 (1,307 in the city), Almeria, 991 (186 in the city), Cordoba, 896 (755 in the city), Huelva, 587 (57 in the city), Jaen, 390 (99 in the city). Limits set by local councils This progress is underpinned by the approval of decree 31/2024, which establishes that local councils may set proportionate limits on the number of tourist homes per building, area or time period, in line with EU rulings. This is supported by emergency decree law 1/2025 on housing, promoted in coordination with the regional department for public work, spatial planning and housing, strengthening councils' ability to bring this activity into line with their urban planning models and to protect the urban environment. In addition, the Andalusian tourism register now automatically blocks the registration of dwellings in restricted areas or areas subject to licence suspension in Seville, Malaga, Cadiz and Puerto Santa Maria. In parallel, the regional ministry of tourism maintains collaboration agreements with the town halls of Alhaurin el Grande, Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, El Puerto de Santa Maria, Jerez de la Frontera, Granada, Malaga and Seville, with the aim of improving the detection of irregular accommodation and guaranteeing compliance with town planning and tourism regulations. "Andalucia shows that it is possible to combine tourism leadership, quality of life and urban planning, with serious policies, objective data and a clear roadmap," Bernal says. SUR in English Monday, 9 February 2026, 12:20 | Updated 14:01h. Share Former prison officers returned to the old prison at the Moorish Castle. The visit was organised by Professor Clive Finlayson of the Gibraltar National Museum. The officers were shown round the castle and the works being carried out by Fortress Attractions Ltd (FAL) under the supervision of the Gibraltar National Museum were explained. Professor Finlayson said that: "It was a wonderful opportunity to show the works to those who had spent a large part of their working life here. It was a special moment that brought the site back to life. I have received a lot of help, especially from former Prison Superintendent Mr Gareth Coom, with regards to the recent history of the prison, including many anecdotes and details which could have easily been lost. I am also grateful to the current Superintendent Mr Nigel Gaetto for presenting the museum with historical artefacts which are of great heritage importance and interest. It will all add value to the site when it opens to the public." Commenting on the visit, Mr Coom said: "A group from the Retired Prison Officers Association was invited to visit the outstanding works that have transformed the prison's 'Old Military Yard' to its original appearance. The walk brought back many memories of laughter amongst colleagues, difficult times and, personally, of friends and family members who worked there for many years but unfortunately are no longer with us. Our sincere thanks to Dr Clive Finlayson and the museum for arranging this." SUR in English Monday, 9 February 2026, 11:58 Share Minister Sir Joseph Bossano, accompanied by a delegation from the Gibraltar National Mint, attended the prestigious World Money Fair in Berlin. The World Money Fair is the leading international event for the numismatic industry, bringing together mints, distributors, designers, collectors and media from around the world. Gibraltar's participation proved extremely successful, generating strong interest from industry professionals and international partners. During the event, Minister Bossano addressed the international press at the Media Forum, outlining Gibraltar's commitment to innovation, quality and heritage in coin production and the strategic importance of the Gibraltar National Mint in promoting Gibraltar globally. Minister Bossano also unveiled the Gibraltar National Mint's latest flagship release: the new Gibraltar collection titled The Unseen Effigies. Issued to mark a historic milestone, 2026 commemorates the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Gibraltar. To honour this occasion, the Gibraltar National Mint has launched a brand-new circulating coin collection featuring previously unseen effigies of Her Late Majesty. Each effigy represents a different decade of Queen Elizabeth II's record-breaking reign, while the reverse designs form the centrepiece of the set, uniting history and numismatic heritage. The one-pound coin collection is the first of its kind to feature each decade of the Queen's life across the same specification, making it the world's first bimetal one-pound coin collection of its type. Sir Joseph Bossano said: "The World Money Fair provides an excellent platform to showcase Gibraltar's growing presence within the international numismatic community. The Unseen Effigies collection is a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of Her Late Majesty The Queen, while also demonstrating the innovation, craftsmanship and ambition of the Gibraltar National Mint." Rockers in the sun, on a terrace of the Pez Espada hotel, during a break in the Rockin' Race Jamboree. Jose Rodriguez Camara Torremolinos Monday, 9 February 2026 | Updated 11/02/2026 15:22h. Share The weather, due to an extraordinary succession of storms in Andalucia, this year is "worse than England" said Mark and his wife in Torremolinos on Friday. However, the couple admitted that, although the weather they have encountered this year is worse than in Britain, they were really enjoying their fourth year at the Rockin' Race Jamboree. Their journey from Brighton was well worth it, they explained at the entrance to the Pez Espada hotel. The iconic Costa del Sol hotel was yet another stage at the 32nd edition of the festival, which was interrupted and altered by the endless rains; there were some changes of location to provide a roof for those attending the non-stop concerts, dances and DJs scheduled from 4 to 8 February. Zoom Mark and his wife from Brighton. J. R. C. The programme for Friday lunchtime was in splendid sunshine, despite the stormy weather forecast. This was a joy for those who gathered around the swimming pool of La Barracuda hotel, the main venue for the event, to listen to bands like Two Bit Troubadours, Los Lobos, Los Sirex and Jay Siegel's Tokens. And the Rockin' Race Jamboree music lineup was washed down with cold beer and plates of paella, among other delicacies. The question of whether or not it was raining was, therefore, a topic of conversation, like in a lift. If there's one thing this musical event has, it's the community that has been bringing it to life for more than three decades. Zoom Fans from Madrid. J. R. C. Lolo, David, Jimmy, Oscar, Susana, Martin, Lola, Maribel, Serafin and Laura, a group of friends from Granada, Seville and Jaen, consider the 'Rockin' to be their special "amusement park" to which they go, no matter what, even if the motorway is cut off, as has happened to the people from Jaen. Zoom A group from Murcia. J. R. C. "It's just that at no time have we thought of postponing the meeting," said these veterans, who have been part of this party of sideburns, skinny jeans, toupees, Wayfarer shades, full skirts and headscarves since its origins, at the town's legendary Pink Elephant. The complexity of the journey, "from Madrid, by car and with the convoys of the Military Emergency Unit", was not an obstacle for Ricardo, Paco and Anabel, who, more than for the artists, who they know will be good, come to the rock paradise of Torremolinos for "the vibe". They know it is a well organised event where they have the opportunity to meet other "devotees" of a musical style which, they say, has no signs of dying out. Zoom Ruth, Paqui, Eduardo, Daniel, Richard, Raquel and David, friends and residents of Cartagena, who, beyond being a bit fed up with carrying an umbrella, point out that the scene and the "rockabilly look" is experiencing a resurgence in their home city which suits them perfectly - they have it in their blood. They confirmed their loyalty to Torremolinos, as a world mecca for this way of understanding and listening to life. And to the question of whether you are born or made, the answer is the former, if you take into account Vega and Dario's life experience. Zoom Andrea, Elena, Sara, Vega, Dario and Begona. J. R.C. The little girl and the little boy are not even three years old and have more than one Rockin' Race Jamboree under their belts. The adults accompanying them from Tenerife are Elena, Sara, Begona and Andrea, an Italian from Sardinia who lives in the Canary Islands and who, if he thinks of holidays, wants to spend them at the Torremolinos festival. Not in vain, for those in the know, the Rockin is the best in the world for those who love rock and roll. Regina Sotorrio Monday, 9 February 2026 | Updated 12/02/2026 19:14h. Share Opposition to the giant sculptures of Neptune and Venus that will look over the entrance to the port of Malaga for six months sees no end. The latest to join is political group Con Malaga, which has filed an administrative complaint for what it considers to be improper management of public space. Con Malaga has announced that it will also take this issue to the next urban planning commission. The protest comes just days before the Port Authority installs the ensemble designed and gifted by artist Gines Serran. Although there has been no political action until this moment, various institutions have strongly criticised the sculptures. Under pressure from the San Telmo Academy of Fine Arts, in January the Port Authority decided to significantly shorten the loan period from 25 years to six months. Con Malaga has filed an administrative complaint with the Port Authority, the Junta de Andalucia and the city council, citing a law breach that benefits "private interests" by occupying "public space". According to Con Malaga spokesperson Toni Morillas, this is proof that the PP party treats public space "as if it was a stage set". Morillas believes that the city council has "neglected its responsibility" by committing "three outrageous acts that could constitute administrative irregularities": lack of public tender, official authorisation and planning permission. Con Malaga first points out that the city council has not awarded the use of the area through an open, competitive process. "A legal formula has been used that offers no safeguards and opens the door for the owner of the sculpture to acquire rights to compensation," Morillas says. In addition, Con Malaga states that the regional ministry of culture has not authorised the installation in such a key area of the city "that forms part of the historic centre, which has been declared a site of cultural interest". Morillas reminds the public that "any type of action that takes place in this environment must be subject to a report and authorisation from the regional ministry of culture, which must assess the aesthetic and landscape impact". Finally, Morillas denounces the lack of planning permission. "The city council should have initiated an urban planning dossier because this involves large-scale work with the installation of a foundation," she says. Con Malaga demands that the installation be stopped. The political group calls for the intervention of the regional government and the urban planning department "to assess whether this is a case of urban planning infringement". Mijas police arrest five and issue 74 drug reports in massive security sweep A month-long surveillance campaign across Las Lagunas, La Cala, and Mijas Pueblo targets violent robbery, antisocial behaviour and street drinking Tony Bryant Monday, 9 February 2026, 16:07 Share The Mijas Local Police carried out an extensive surveillance and enforcement campaign throughout January, aimed at bolstering public safety and community coexistence across the municipality. The initiative targeted unruly behaviour and public disorder in the towns main urban centres, including Las Lagunas, La Cala, and Mijas Pueblo. In terms of public safety, officers made five significant arrests. Four individuals were detained on outstanding judicial search and arrest warrants, while a fifth was arrested for violent robbery and attempted homicide. The campaign also saw a crackdown on drug-related offences. A total of 74 reports were issued for breaches of the Citizen Security Protection Act - 55 of which related specifically to the consumption of narcotics in public spaces. Further sanctions were imposed for disobedience to authority, disrespecting police officers, and causing disturbances to public order. The police also turned their attention to local by-laws governing civic conduct. Officers issued 35 reports for infringements of the civic coexistence by-law, primarily for littering, excessive noise, and disturbances to neighbours. Particular focus was placed on the responsible ownership of animals. Several fines were issued for failing to dilute dog urine on public roads, a key requirement of the local highway by-law. Additionally, six complaints were filed against minors for consuming alcohol in public spaces. Security councillor Juan Carlos Cuevas praised the results: These figures reflect an active Local Police force, present on the streets and fully supported by the town council. We are acting firmly against uncivil and criminal behaviour to guarantee the peace and safety of our residents. Councillor Cuevas highlighted that "prevention is a key tool," noting that compliance with municipal rules is "an obligation if we are to live together in a safe and orderly town". The crackdown comes as Mijas prepares to further modernise its security infrastructure. In early 2026, the town hall announced a 2.6 million investment to install more than 150 high-resolution video cameras at 85 strategic locations, including number plate recognition systems at key entry points to the municipality. Ester Requena Monday, 9 February 2026, 10:44 Share With hardly any time to recover from storm Leonardo and Marta, Malaga province is facing the passage of another front from Monday onwards. Ronda has once again reserved the spot of the most affected district, with 60mm of rainfall expected in 12 hours and a yellow warning for Monday. According to state meteorological agency Aemet, the weather in the province will not improve before Friday, with more rain forecast. As regional minister of emergencies Antonio Sanz said on Sunday, the problem is not so much the rain itself but the fact that the ground is already soaked and cannot absorb water. Andalucia has been recording storm after storm since the start of the year. During his appearance on Sunday, Sanz described the storm damage in Andalucia as "brutal", with special emphasis on the "destruction of roads" and municipalities such as Grazalema (Cadiz). The bad weather will also continue delaying the return of the high-speed rail line between Malaga and Madrid, as repair work cannot take place under adverse weather conditions. According to the latest updates, AVE trains will probably start running the service again in March, at the earliest. Roads closed The road infrastructure in the province is also expecting the new front with already sustained damages that have not been repaired. The storms last week caused total cuts on the following roads: the A-366 (Guaro), the A-7286 (Campillos), the A-2300 (Ronda-Montecorto), the A-7202 (Campillos), the A-373 (Cortes de la Frontera) and the A-7156 (Casares). Thanks to repair work, other roads reopened on Sunday: the A-7054 (Pizarra), the A-7283 (Antequera) and the A-374 (Ronda). Spain's First Deputy PM Maria Jesus Montero also addressed the public on Sunday, stating that, among other measures, the government "will prioritise" households and the damage they have suffered. A total of 555 residents of Grazalema and Estacion de Benaojan remained in Ronda at the end of the week, hoping to return to their homes as soon as possible. Ignacio Lillo Malaga Monday, 9 February 2026 | Updated 10/02/2026 10:55h. Share The railway strike in Spain has had less impact in Malaga than in other provinces this Monday. With very few services that remain operational since the Adamuz and Alora incidents, the short-distance Cercanias lines (C1 Costa and C2 Guadalhorce) have borne the brunt of the strike. On Monday evening what was meant to be a three-day strike ended after just a few hours when the unions called off the industrial action. This came after a meeting in which the government agreed to increase spending by 20 per cent to improve safety on the railway network. C2 passengers had been complaining of long delays on Monday, which is the first day of the strike. SUR has verified that no trains ran from Malaga to Fuengirola between 9.20am and 10.18am on Monday, when there should be one train every 40 minutes. To the frustration of the passengers waiting at the station, several trains passed without stopping. On Monday, Cercanias trains ran at 75% of the service's capacity in rush hour and 50% the rest of the day. In addition, big crowds of waiting passengers formed on the platforms. This caused frustration among rushing workers and confusion among tourists who didn't know that there was a strike. Support for the protesters Despite the inconvenience, many passengers told SUR that they support the strike. "I've come with enough time," secondary school teacher Marina said, while waiting for her regular train to Torremolinos. "Everyone has the right to demand better working conditions. I understand why they do it," she stated. Domenico Chiappe Madrid Monday, 9 February 2026, 15:44 Share Five babies have required hospitalisation for vomiting in Spain after consuming the same Nestle baby formula that contained a toxin produced by bacteria. Three others have been treated for the same symptoms, albeit mild. The Spanish health authorities has communicated the incidents to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The Ministry of Health has not considered it necessary to issue a warning to the general public, although the Ministry of Consumer Affairs had already issued a "warning" about the "possible presence of 'Bacillus cereus' in powdered milk for infants" a week before. Nestle has already voluntarily withdrawn the Nidina baby formula, which contained the toxin. The company informed authorities of the positive analysis and said that only one batch had to be withdrawn (52900346AB, to be consumed before October 2027). The ECDC report says that there were eight cases of vomitting possibly after consumption of the product in question in Spain, five of which required hospitalisation. "None of the suspected cases have been confirmed in a laboratory," the report says. As faecal samples of this toxin are not common in Spain, the EU body could not "establish a causal relationship between the clinical picture and the consumption" of the product. Similar cases have been reported in Belgium (five babies), Denmark (unspecified), France (eleven) and the UK (36). Only Belgium conducted a study to determine the relationship between the intake of baby formula and its side effects. All samples were positive. Symptoms and consumption The symptoms of cereulide (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) appear suddenly, sometimes half an hour after consumption, but can also occur up to six hours later. In this case, the contaminated ingredient was arachidonic acid oil, an omega-6 supplement. The risk for the youngest children is dehydration. There have been no serious cases, according to European authorities. The European Commission has asked the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to conduct a study to determine at what point cereulide becomes dangerous for babies. In theory, the presence of the toxin may be due to the bacteria surviving the heat treatments used during the manufacture of powdered infant formula, the use of contaminated ingredients of either animal or plant origin or contamination occurring on the production or packaging line at the factory. The household recommendation to combat these toxins is to use water at a temperature above 70C when dissolving the product. To avoid acute exposure and not exceed safe consumption levels, the concentration of cereulide could not be higher than 0,054 g/L in infant formula and 0,1 g/L for follow-on formula. Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ Ukraine will open ten export centers in European countries by the end of the year, said President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "Today we are opening exports. By 2026, there will be 10 export hubs in Europe. They will include the Baltic states and Nordic countries. Ten representative offices will be operating in 2026," Zelenskyy said while speaking with faculty and students at the Kyiv Aviation Institute during an event marking the 120th anniversary of aircraft designer Oleh Antonovs birth. The Everson Museum of Art announced six new members to its board of trustees. The new trustees are Isaac Budmen of Budmen Industries, Louise Rosenfield, David J. Foor, Dirk Sonneborn, Gia Mahmoud, and Ed Cronk. Their appointments bring expertise spanning technology, business, philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and energy infrastructure to the downtown Syracuse museum. Budmen has collaborated with the Everson on innovative projects, including the research, mapping, and 3D printing of the historic Scarab Vase for the Touching History: Exploring the Scarab Vase exhibition. Rosenfield, a Dallas-based ceramic artist and nationally respected collector, previously served as an honorary board member and is the namesake of Louise Cafe. She donated the ceramic works featured throughout the cafe and has supported student memberships at the museum. Foor, president of Visual Technologies, has more than four decades of experience in the audio-visual industry. Since acquiring the company in 1981, he has grown it into a full-service firm serving education, business, hospitality, legal, medical, and government sectors across Central New York. Both Foor and Sonneborn have supported the museum through exhibition and program-related giving. Mahmoud, vice president of portfolio and project management at National Grid, brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the energy sector and has board experience from her work with other nonprofit organizations. Cronk, a CPA with Bowers Advisors LLC, serves as the boards treasurer. As a CFO advisor and partner, he has expertise in translating strategic vision into effective operational models, with experience overseeing marketing, financial, legal, IT, and HR systems. Sonneborn is a former executive director of The Gifford Foundation and held senior leadership positions at CNY Community Foundation. He also spent more than a decade as an adjunct in entrepreneurship at Syracuse University. The board is led by Ryan McDermott as chair, with Daniela Molta as vice chair and Maggie Goss as secretary. Founded in 1897, the Everson Museum of Art was the first in the U.S. to focus on American art. Located in downtown Syracuse, it is known for American ceramics and modern art collections, housed in a building designed by architect I. M. Pei. *** If youd like to submit an item about People in Motion at your organization, send a press release including photo, to business@syracuse.com with Company News in the subject field. We publish news about people with ties to Onondaga, Cayuga, Madison and Oswego counties. See all recent Company News items. If you are a mental health worker in New York, the state wants to hear from you. The New York State Office of Mental Health is trying to attract new mental health professionals by building a workforce website. To do so, it is asking current mental health providers to take a short survey. The website, part of a $2.5 million multi-year initiative to promote mental health careers, will provide insight into various public mental health professions, programs and settings in New Yorks system. It plans to launch next year. The site will also feature videos and stories from professionals in the field, along with a job search function that allows users to browse mental health job opportunities at all levels by county and profession. Users will also be able to connect with potential employers. Our continued efforts to strengthen New Yorks mental health care system depend on having a robust, skilled workforce at the ready, Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said in a statement. The website we are developing with input from mental health professionals and service providers will offer an exciting presentation of careers in this field, along with a pathway for job seekers to connect with prospective employers in communities throughout our state. In 2022, most rural counties in New York were considered mental health professional shortage areas, according to the New York State Association for Rural Health. Nearly 3 million New Yorkers, or 18% the states population, have a mental health condition. The Office of Mental Health is also offering a statewide repayment program that will award state grants to community agencies that offer money to help licensed providers pay off student loans. That program offers up to $120,000 to psychiatrists and $30,000 to other licensed mental health professionals to repay student loans and debt. To qualify, employees must remain employed by a licensed community mental health program for three years. The application deadline for the repayment program is March 20. Syracuse, N.Y. On Feb. 1, Kona Mahu called 911 from her home in the Nob Hill Apartments. Her son was sick with the flu, delirious and dehydrated. But when the paramedics arrived at the front door, they could not get in. The door was locked from the outside and the inside. Tenants looked out through the glass doors at the medics. They were trapped. Someone ran out a side door, then around the massive building in the snow and let the paramedics in using their electronic key fob. The problem is just one on a long list of dangerous troubles at Syracuses largest private apartment complex. Nob Hill, on the southern edge of the city, was so nice it once was called Snob Hill. But it has descended into a mess since its sale to an out-of-town investment group in 2018. The city tried to force repairs starting in the spring, when they sued the owner group over more than 100 code violations. That case is still pending. Many of the fixes have been temporary and sloppy, residents said. And the worst problems have persisted despite promises. Tenants said they are often without heat and hot water, and for years many have had brown water streaming from their faucets. The garbage still piles up. An apartment flooded this past week, forcing tenants to stay in a hotel. Squatters are taking over the lounges and empty apartments. A tenants group estimated that more than 200 of the 760 apartments are vacant. If it was downtown, it would be worse than the Skyline, said Jocelyn Richards, a community outreach coordinator from CNY Fair Housing who has been helping tenants. Shes referring to the massive apartment building in downtown Syracuse that was allowed to fall into such severe disrepair that the city shut it down. So how does Syracuse prevent Nob Hill from becoming the next Skyline? The city has a historic affordable housing crisis. Who can make Nob Hills 760 apartments part of the solution? Garbage piles up at the service entrance to building 3 at the Nob Hill apartments Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Syracuse, N.Y. Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Maybe the tenants. More than two dozen filed their own lawsuits against Nob Hill, taking advantage of a new state law that allows tenants to sue over bad conditions and seek a court order for repairs. Last week, they told their stories and showed pictures to a city court judge. They are asking her to order Nob Hills out- of-town owner, Nob Hill Apartment Group LLC, to make repairs. Nob Hills four massive buildings sit on 28 acres that are almost in Jamesville. The tenants are younger, working-class people, international students and the elderly. The vast majority pay their own way; only eleven families get a subsidy. Nob Hill apartments building 4 Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Syracuse, N.Y. The property managed by an out if state company is allowing it to fall into disrepair. Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com The complex was purchased for nearly $60 million in 2018, the highest price ever paid for a property in Syracuse at the time. But the owners stopped paying the $53 million mortgage in June. Fannie Mae, the federally backed agency that promotes home ownership, filed for foreclosure on the property last month. The principal owner, Nob Hill LLC, also owes the city of Syracuse $800,000 in fines for code violations. The tenants are not asking for anything extravagant. They want reliable heat, hot water and water that is not brown. They want front doors that lock to keep squatters and thieves out, but dont keep them trapped inside against their will. They want the garbage removed instead of stinking up the hallways. They want what they paid for. A bucket instead of a shower For four months, Sean Stanyon took bucket baths. He had no hot water from December 2024 to May. He got up for work two hours early, boiled small pots of water and dumped them all into a Home Depot bucket. Then hed go into his shower and pour the water over himself as he bathed. The hot water was fixed in May, but like most fixes at Nob Hill, it didnt stick, he told City Court Judge Shadia Tadros. The hot water still goes out intermittently. On the morning of the court hearing, residents of one of the buildings had no water at all. Stanyon has no heat in his living room or kitchen. All of the apartments have baseboard heaters in each room. Many residents said theirs have not worked for years. Stanyons sliding door doesnt close all the way, so frigid air blows into his kitchen, which has no working heat. The garbage piles up in his hallway because the trash compactor doesnt work. His smoke detector does not work. Im scared to sleep at night in case theres a fire, Stanyon said. Hes also afraid of the squatters hes seen in the vacant apartment across the hall. The trash in Sean Stanyon's hallway has been piled up for weeks, and when it's cleared it happens again because the trash compactor has been broken for years. provided photo Michael Strumlock told the judge he hadnt had heat anywhere but his bedroom for three years. Nob Hills lawyer, Kristin Greeley, picked up a piece of paper that said work order at the top: But didnt they fix your heat, she asked, looking at the piece of paper. Strumlock replied: They came and measured, and then never came back. Like all but one of the other tenants, he was representing himself. Most of them make too much to qualify for a free lawyer, but not enough to move out. Janina Rios is a disabled Army veteran and a Syracuse University student. Shes lived at Nob Hill for five years, faithfully paying $1,178 a month. Like all the other tenants, she pays a monthly charge for exterminators. But that was a service no one received until they endured a months-long cockroach infestation. Exterminators finally came in December, tenants said. Like Stanyon, Rios told the judge that her tap water is brown and smells funny. It killed all of her plants, she said. She said she called Onondaga County about the water but was told it was Nob Hills issue, she said. Rios said squatters have been coming in and out of her building because the doors arent locked. Shes witnessed people getting into an argument in the parking lot and then one man pulled a gun on the other. But one of the most persistent problems for her is an alarm system that management ignores. Its supposed to alert them of all sorts of things, from fires to a laundry room problem. It goes off all the time, sometimes continuing for days. It can go off all weekend sometimes before anyone from management responds, she told the judge. The incessant beeping stirs up tinnitus that Rios has from her military service, she said. The result is unbearable. When the beeping wouldnt stop in December, she left and stayed with her parents on Long Island. Rios tried finding a new apartment three times, most recently in 2024. She even got a real estate agent to help. But she had no luck. The market is insane, she said. I stayed because I didnt have any other option. The judge nodded. We do have a housing crisis on our hands, Tadros said in a recent hearing. At several points, Tadros questioned whether the maintenance workers were actually making repairs or just filling out work orders saying that they did. She grilled Donald Grolling, who is in charge of maintenance at the buildings, for more than an hour. Grolling said he inherited 800 work orders when he took over in October, and his staff has fixed 300 or 400 of the issues. Tadros asked for details about each work order Grolling provided to rebut tenant complaints. When Grolling didnt have them, the judge became frustrated. At one point, she asked Grolling when a bad sewage leak was repaired. It would have been done that night, or the next day, he replied. Dont tell me you think it happened that night, the judge snapped. Tell me specifically. Are you not the facilities manager there? She had so many questions for Grolling that the hearing was held over for later this month so she could ask more. Alyssa Gutierrez explains that hot water is in consistent in her kitchen at the Nob Hill apartments Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Syracuse, N.Y. Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com A thief or maintenance? Maintenance is a double-edged sword at Nob Hill. They often dont respond to concerns, tenants said, but then when they do, they will show up unannounced and simply let themselves in. Rios said she almost called the police after seeing someone entering her locked apartment on her Ring doorbell camera. At first she thought they were there to rob her. Then, she realized they were there to spray for the roaches. She was never notified of the visit, she told the judge. Alyssa Gutierrez was in the shower last month when she heard someone come into her locked apartment. There was no knock, no announcement and no notice before. Also, there was no lock on her bathroom door. Gutierrez said the people left when they realized she was in the shower. But she never found out why they were there. They didnt fix her heat and they havent returned, Gutierrez said. She has lived in the apartment for five years. In that time, her rent has nearly doubled from $645 to $1,148. She stopped paying the full amount after she filed the lawsuit, which the law allows. She figures shes definitely not getting everything shes paying for. Last week, she lost water for a day. The pungent smell of dirty diapers in the garbage that had piled up in the laundry room filled the long hallway. The trash compactor was broken again. Gutierrez has looked for other places but she cant afford anything shes found so far. Fresh paint but no heat Like many out-of-town landlords in Syracuse, Nob Hills LLCs obscure responsibility. Court papers name the Nob Hill LLC and Sinatra & Co. Real Estate, a Buffalo-based company, as the owners. But Sinatras lawyer deflected blame for the tenants troubles, saying they only own 5% and California-based Windsor Nob Hill Investor LLC is the majority stakeholder. When the new ownership group took over in 2018, they had Sinatra, the Buffalo-based real estate company with an ownership stake, manage the property. In 2022, that responsibility changed to Mayfair Management, a Dallas-based company. Tenants and the current management company, Destra of New York City, blame Mayfair. Joe Labita, a managing partner at Destra, described his company as a turnaround manager. The firm has turned struggling properties into desirable assets, he said. But he refused to name any. His company is owned by Windsor, the majority owner of Nob Hill who has defaulted on the mortgage. Labita said when his people got on site at Nob Hill, they were shocked by what hadnt been done. We were like, Jesus, he said. Weve been working hard, trying to catch up from that previous management company. He said most of that work started in earnest in October. Labita said theyve cleared 114 code violations. But he didnt know how many still existed. One goes off and another comes on, he said. He said the elevators were all fixed but one. (Tenants said more than one elevator was down as recently as last week). Labita also said that many of the tenants have working heat, they simply dont understand how it works. He was putting together a flyer on how to use it. Labita lives in one of the buildings during the week. He goes home to New York City most weekends. I can tell you, you know, ownership is dedicated to turning this property around, Labita said. But he couldnt speak to the recent foreclosure or how the owners would be involved, if at all, going forward. A temporary receiver has been appointed by the court to be in charge of Nob Hill. Sol Munoz, a spokeswoman for Mayor Sharon Owens, said the city expects the receiver to improve the conditions at the massive apartment complex. Mahu, one of the leaders of the tenants organization, met with Labita last spring. She said he was cheerful and always talking about big plans. But he wasnt focused on the real problems tenants care about. She said they were walking down a hall when he stopped and pointed out how the floor tiles were going the wrong way. See that, he said, were going to fix that. We all got fresh paint in our lobbies, but we still have broken elevators, Mahu said. Nob Hill apartments resident Joe Clegg says living here is terrible, but its hard to find other accommodations Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Syracuse, N.Y. Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Scott Schild | sschild@syracuse.com Joe Clegg lives in building 2. He moved in in 2024 after living in an apartment downtown with a hole in the bathroom ceiling for two years. But hes not sure this is better. He listed the same problems as the other tenants. His heat rarely works. The water often stops working. He sat in the lobby as he talked. The walls were clean and bright. Light glinted off a large chandelier. But there was no heat and it was 5 degrees outside. He wore his hat, gloves and a thick parka. He was still cold. I want to move out, he said. But where? Reporter Tim Knauss contributed to this story. Syracuse, N.Y. Bitter cold in Syracuse over the weekend forced people experiencing homelessness to make hard choices: find a warm place indoors or try to survive outside as temperatures plunged to dangerous levels. More than 30 people were found outside this weekend in Syracuse but only about five of those people decided to go to shelters or warming stations, according to John Tumino, executive director of In My Fathers Kitchen, a group that helps the homeless. The rest stayed outdoors or sought temporary places to stay, he said. Temperatures hit about -9 degrees with wind chills as low as -23 degrees Saturday night in the Syracuse area, according to the National Weather Service. Those who stayed outside were people Tumino described as the hardest of the hard individuals who consistently avoid shelters. Many sheltered in tents, abandoned buildings or makeshift indoor spaces, relying on sleeping bags, blankets and layers of clothing to endure the cold, he said. Tumino said the decision to stay outside is often determined by complex factors. About 95% of the people we serve are dealing with addiction or untreated mental health challenges, Tumino said. Distrust of shelter systems, past trauma and fear of losing personal belongings also play a big role in why some people choose to stay outside. When extreme weather approaches, outreach workers with In My Fathers Kitchen make contact with people to warn them about the dangers of the freezing cold, Tumino said. They focused on preparation rather than overnight response, with teams in the field days ahead of the worst weather, he said. They encouraged people to seek shelter and distributed supplies in advance, Tumino said. If someone declines to go indoors, teams provide survival supplies such as cold-weather clothing, blankets, hand warmers, food and information about shelter options in case they change their minds, Tumino said. The most serious risks during the extreme cold include hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration and an increased risk of overdose, particularly when people isolate to stay warm, he said. Earlier this winter, outreach workers encountered a young man with frostbite who lost all of his toes, he said. Transportation and staffing were the most urgent needs during the extreme cold, Tumino said, noting that more vehicles and additional outreach workers would allow for more frequent wellness checks beyond what his organization and the Rescue Mission can do. He said transportation is especially challenging for people living outside the city, where warming centers may be inaccessible without a ride. Outreach workers coordinated with local agencies and providers by sharing information, encouraging transportation to warming centers and helping connect people with services, Tumino said. Upstate University Hospital has continued to see people experiencing homelessness seek refuge in its emergency room since Wednesday, when 28 people sought warmth at the hospital. The numbers have declined in recent days, hospital spokesperson Kathleen Froio said Sunday. Fewer than a dozen people were in the emergency room seeking shelter on Saturday night, she said. Froio said the hospital has been working closely with Onondaga County to coordinate assistance for people who are seen and discharged from the emergency department and may be unhoused. Staff from the Rescue Mission visited the hospital this weekend to help connect people with shelter. Catholic Charities has been in communication with the hospital about available space at its warming center, she said. We did experience some difficulty receiving timely responses through the 211 system over the weekend, Froio said. The extreme cold has strained resources across the community, and while it can take time to triage individuals seeking shelter, patients in the emergency department are prioritized and treated based on medical necessity. Shelter capacity and personal choice remain the biggest barriers for the unhoused, Tumino said. Even when there is space available, some people choose not to come inside, Tumino said. As outreach workers, we cant override those decisions, even when the consequences can be severe. Outreach teams also saw an increase in medical concerns, including early signs of frostbite, respiratory distress and symptoms consistent with prolonged cold exposure. Tumino credited House Calls for the Homeless-Upstate for providing on-the-ground medical support. Tumino said better protection during dangerous cold weather would require expanding warming and shelter options and make transportation resources available around the clock. We keep going back to the same streets and encampments, Tumino said. We hope the supplies we bring, the conversations we have and the trust we build help people survive until conditions improve. A New York State Police trooper was injured early Saturday morning when a vehicle spun out and struck a patrol car on the Thruway in Western New York. The incident occurred shortly before 2 a.m. on Saturday on the westbound Thruway in Lancaster, Erie County. Two troopers were outside their patrol car on the left shoulder assisting a disabled motorist when a passing Kia sedan spun out. The vehicle, operated by Emily Elizabeth Lopez-Rangel, 22, of Batavia, ended up facing eastbound and struck the rear of the parked patrol car, which had its emergency lights activated. The impact pushed the patrol car into one of the troopers, throwing her into the snow off the shoulder. She was transported to Erie County Medical Center and later released. Lopez-Rangel and her passenger were evaluated by first responders at the scene but declined treatment or transportation to the hospital. Authorities determined Lopez-Rangel showed no signs of drug or alcohol impairment. The crash resulted from unsafe driving for the conditions, and Lopez-Rangel was issued several citations for vehicle and traffic law violations. This marks the second incident of a trooper being struck on the Thruway in the past two weeks. The New York State Police is reminding drivers that the states Move Over Law requires motorists to slow down, be alert and move over when safely possible for all vehicles stopped along the road. In 2025, more than 2,500 tickets were issued for Move Over Law violations along the New York State Thruway. Syracuse, N.Y. Protesters interrupted a Syracuse Common Council meeting Monday, shouting over the council president until lawmakers were forced to adjourn the meeting and have police remove two people. About 20 protesters attended a meeting where the council adopted a plan to replace the company that runs the citys license plate readers. Protesters said the council did not provide enough information about the new company taking over the cameras, Axon. The council is taking steps to remove the existing vendor, Flock, over privacy concerns in connection with federal immigration enforcement. Before a 5-1 vote to approve the Axon contract on Monday, Councilor Jimmy Monto said lawmakers have done their due diligence. He thanked the protesters for coming to the meeting. This council has been through months of discussion going over the contract we will be entering into with Axon, he said. We are very comfortable with the idea that it is highly easily revocable, should they step out of bounds in any way inside of that contract. After the vote, the council tried to move onto the next items on the agenda, but shouting from the protesters began. They demanded the council allow them to speak. Council President Rita Paniagua stood and asked the protesters to respect the procedures of the council, which do not provide for public comment when council is voting on agenda items. One woman continued to yell, mocking Paniaguas call for decorum. Oh my god youre soo civil here, she shouted. Im a headache arent I? Common Councilor Marty Nave speaks with protesters during a meeting at Syracuse City Hall, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jeremy Boyer The council voted to adjourn the meeting while police were called to try to help restore order. The meeting resumed after about 10 minutes, but shouting continued and Paniagua asked police to remove two people. As they were escorted from the room, others began to shout Shame! Shame! The council began voting on other agenda items about two minutes later. Police did not make any arrests. The protesters came to the meeting to express their opposition to the city supporting companies that do business with federal immigration enforcement. Axon has provided body-worn cameras to federal law enforcement agencies. Genevieve Garcia Kendrick, co-chair of the International Solidarity Committee within the Democratic Socialist of America, has been a leader of the movement, dubbed Melt the contracts. She said the citys specific contract with Axon could be acceptable, but she believes there needed to be more transparency ahead of the vote. Them switching from Flock to Axon ... doesnt help to decrease the worry and the concern that we as Syracuse residents have unless we know fully how our data is going to be protected, Garcia Kendrick said. The Syracuse Police Department and the citys corporation counsel told councilors at a committee meeting last week that Axon cannot share any of the license plate reader with an outside entity, including federal immigration enforcement, without the citys permission. Councilor Hanah Enhrenreich was the only lawmaker to vote against the contract. After the meeting, she said her vote was in response to community concerns about the need for more discussion, not against the contract itself. She said shes comfortable with what shes learned about the citys deal with Axon and about how the readers when used exclusively for local law enforcement have helped solve major crimes. Andiara Travis, in the center wearing a white coat, was removed from the Syracuse Common Council meeting as she shouted in protest against the body's vote to approve a contract for license plate readers on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jai'La Du Rousseau Andiara Travis, a member of the Peace Council and Syracuse native, was the person escorted out of the meeting along with her mother. Were here to speak, to be heard, to be seen, she said after the meeting. We love our home, we love our immigrant neighbors, theyre hard working, they pay into the tax system, theyre good people. ...Our data is being used for evil. The 20 protestors were members of The CNY Solidarity Coalition, Syracuse Peace Council, Jewish Voice for Peace City of Syracuse, the Workers Center of CNY, Syracuse Immigrant and Defense Network and Syracuse DSA. The council discussed the Axon deal on Friday during a public committee meeting, but no members of the public attended. A 17-year-old boy died Sunday after two snowmobiles crashed into a log pile on a private trail in Upstate New York, according to state police. Steven J. Gregorie of Varysburg was operating a 2012 Ski Doo snowmobile traveling south on a marked trail in Warsaw when he lost control around 12:12 p.m. on Sunday, state police said. The snowmobile struck a log pile, ejecting Gregorie. Warsaw is in Wyoming County in Western New York. A 16-year-old friend riding a 2015 Arctic Cat was traveling behind Gregorie when he also lost control and left the marked trail, striking the same log pile and being ejected, according to investigators. The Arctic Cat came to rest on top of Gregorie. Other snowmobile operators who were not involved in the crash contacted 911 and provided assistance at the scene. Gregorie was transported by ambulance to Wyoming County Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Monroe County Medical Examiners Office has scheduled an autopsy. Gregories death marks at least the seventh snowmobile-related fatality in Upstate New York in 2026: Reports by Russian occupiers about their alleged capture of the village of Hlushkivka in Kupyansk district of Kharkiv region are untrue, according to the Joint Forces Groups Telegram channel on Monday. "In addition to Kupyansk and Kupyansk-Uzlova, the village of Hlushkivka in Kharkiv region has been added to the settlements captured by Russian generals in their dreams, fantasies, and reports to their superiors. The Joint Forces Group reports that Russian troops do not only control Hlushkivka, but they are not present there, even in the form of a minor infiltration," the message reads. Maps from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, based on operational information on the Russian invasion as of 8:00 a.m. Monday, and maps from the OSINT project DeepState, show Hlushkivka under the control of the Defense Forces. The US Institute for the Study of War (ISW) in its February 8 summary shows Hlushkivka in the gray zone. Hlushkivka is located approximately 10 kilometers south of Kupyansk on the left bank of the Oskol River. DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks suggest the next evolution of DJI's pocket gimbal camera is built squarely around creator pain points, especially video quality and vertical shooting. Early details point to major camera upgrades, including 6K recording, refined stabilization, and smarter controls designed for fast-paced content creation. With compact cameras under pressure from smartphones, DJI appears focused on delivering a true step forward rather than an incremental refresh. From improved low-light performance to dual-variant options, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 camera is shaping up to target vloggers, travelers, and short-form creators who want cinematic results without bulky gear. If the leaks hold true, Pocket 4 could redefine what a handheld gimbal camera delivers in 2026. DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Leaks: Standard vs Pro Variants Explained DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks consistently point to a two-model strategy designed to separate everyday creators from power users. This split allows DJI to refine features without forcing all buyers into a higher price bracket. The Standard model is expected to feature a single 1-inch CMOS sensor with roughly 50 megapixels, delivering sharp 6K video and smooth 4K slow motion up to 120 frames per second. Leaked images show a slimmer gimbal design, dual physical buttons under the screen, and a noticeably larger battery. These upgrades aim to improve handheld comfort and reduce reliance on touch-only controls during movement. The Pro variant appears more experimental, featuring a dual-lens system that combines a primary 1-inch sensor with a secondary telephoto or ultrawide lens. This setup would enable true optical zoom between 2x and 4x, solving one of the Pocket 3's biggest limitations. Native vertical 4K capture without cropping is also rumored, appealing directly to TikTok and Shorts creators. DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Camera: Sensor, Video, and Color Improvements The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 camera leaks suggest the most meaningful upgrade since the original Pocket launch. A 1-inch CMOS sensor remains central, but higher resolution and expanded readout speeds enable 6K recording for the first time in the Pocket lineup. Video capabilities reportedly include 6K recording at up to 60fps and 4K slow motion pushing beyond 120fps. These improvements would allow creators to crop, reframe, or stabilize footage without losing resolution. Low-light performance is expected to improve significantly, thanks to better pixel binning and refined noise reduction. Color science is another major focus. Leaks reference 10-bit D-Log M profiles, giving editors far more flexibility in post-production. There are also hints of Hasselblad-style color tuning, delivering more natural skin tones and smoother highlight roll-off. For creators who rely on grading workflows, this alone could justify the upgrade. DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Features: Stabilization, AI, and Control Design DJI Osmo Pocket 4 features focus on refining how creators capture footage rather than radically changing the formula. Leaks suggest DJI prioritized smoother motion, smarter tracking, and faster manual control to reduce friction during real-world shooting. These upgrades aim to make handheld vlogging and travel footage feel more polished with less effort. Enhanced 3-axis stabilization with stronger gimbal motors for smoother walking and motion shots with stronger gimbal motors for smoother walking and motion shots ActiveTrack 7.0 AI tracking with improved multi-subject locking and occlusion handling with improved multi-subject locking and occlusion handling Advanced face and eye detection optimized for solo vlog-style filming optimized for solo vlog-style filming Gesture controls and voice commands to reduce screen interaction mid-recording to reduce screen interaction mid-recording Physical dial or touch wheel for quick control over zoom, focus, or gimbal tilt for quick control over zoom, focus, or gimbal tilt Larger rotating touchscreen designed for faster framing and vertical shooting workflows DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Battery Life and Everyday Usability Battery performance and daily usability appear to be major priorities in DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks. DJI reportedly addressed past complaints by improving both capacity and power efficiency for longer shooting sessions. These refinements target creators who rely on the Pocket as an all-day, grab-and-go camera. Approximately 20% larger battery on the Standard model compared to previous generations on the Standard model compared to previous generations Improved power efficiency extending real-world runtime during 4K and 6K recording extending real-world runtime during 4K and 6K recording Fast charging support to reduce downtime between shoots to reduce downtime between shoots Seamless modular accessory integration , including wireless microphones and remote grips , including wireless microphones and remote grips Slimmer gimbal profile to reduce wrist fatigue during extended handheld use to reduce wrist fatigue during extended handheld use Refined button placement to prevent accidental presses while filming DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Leaks: Release Timeline and Pricing Outlook DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks place the announcement window around early 2026, with CES frequently mentioned as the likely reveal event. FCC filings indicate the device is already cleared for U.S. release, pointing to a global rollout shortly after launch. Pricing rumors suggest the Standard model will land between $549 and $649, reflecting its upgraded sensor and video capabilities. The Pro variant, with its dual-lens system, is expected to cost more, likely positioning it as a premium compact alternative to mirrorless cameras for creators. Competition from devices like the Insta360 GO series and Sony's ZV line puts pressure on DJI to justify this pricing. Optical zoom, vertical-native video, and strong low-light performance appear to be DJI's answer. Why the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Could Define Pocket Cameras in 2026 DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks paint a picture of a camera built around modern content creation rather than traditional specs alone. With 6K video, smarter stabilization, and a possible Pro variant offering optical zoom, DJI appears ready to push pocket cameras into new territory. If these features arrive as rumored, the Pocket 4 won't just be an upgradeit could become the default tool for creators who want quality without complexity. As short-form video continues to dominate, DJI's focus on vertical workflows and speed may give it a decisive edge in 2026. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 officially confirmed? DJI has not formally announced the Osmo Pocket 4 yet. However, multiple leaks, prototype sightings, and regulatory filings strongly suggest an upcoming release. These indicators usually appear close to launch. Official confirmation is expected in early 2026. 2. Will the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 support native vertical video? Leaks suggest the Pro variant may support native vertical 4K without cropping. This would be a major upgrade for social media creators. The Standard model is expected to improve vertical workflows as well. Exact implementation will depend on final hardware. 3. How big is the upgrade from Osmo Pocket 3? The jump appears substantial, especially in video resolution and control design. Moving from 4K to 6K, adding physical dials, and improving AI tracking all point to a noticeable leap. Battery life and usability also seem improved. For many creators, it may feel like a generational upgrade. 4. Who should consider waiting for the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Creators focused on vlogging, travel, and short-form video will benefit most. Those frustrated by digital zoom and vertical cropping on earlier models may find Pocket 4 worth the wait. Casual users satisfied with 4K may not need to upgrade immediately. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal announced that the country has banned another 1,073 fighters, who fought against Ukraine, from entering the Schengen area. Estonia has banned another 1,073 combatants who fought against Ukraine from entering the Schengen Area. Around 1.5 million people have taken part in Russias aggression. They return home with violence. Serious crime is rising. And this risk does not stop at borders. Europe must act now to protect our people and hold the aggressor accountable, he said on X. In response, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko expressed gratitude for Estonias "clear and responsible decision." Those who have taken part in Russias aggression against Ukraine cannot be treated in Europe as ordinary visitors with unrestricted access to our societies. Estonia has shown how this challenge should be addressed firmly, lawfully, and with a clear understanding of our shared responsibility. I call on other European countries to follow this approach. Protecting Europe requires unity, consistency, and clear consequences for participation in war and violence, she wrote under Michals post. Torrential rain in Colombia leaves 13 dead Bogota, Feb 8 (AFP) Feb 08, 2026 Thirteen people died this week in Colombia in torrential rain that is rare for this time of year, officials said Sunday. A cold front rushing in from the north of the Americas to the Caribbean coast of Colombia increased rainfall last month by 64 percent compared to the historical average, the national weather agency Ideam said. Among the fatalities this week, a landslide in southwest Narino department killed seven people Friday night as a rain-swollen stream overflowed and houses were buried in mud, Narino department authorities said. They broadcast footage of earth-moving equipment digging away at the muck as rescue teams and sniffer dogs looked for bodies. The violent weather had already left six dead around the country, the disaster management agency UNGRD said Thursday. Climate change is wreaking havoc with the dry and wet periods in Colombia, which has a tropical climate and no distinct seasons. Spain must adapt to 'new climate reality', PM says after floods Madrid, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2026 Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday warned that Spain must adapt to "a completely new climate reality" following deadly floods that forced thousands to flee their homes. Spain is on the front line of climate change in Europe, facing longer heatwaves and more frequent heavy rainfall -- epitomised by the October 2024 floods that killed more than 230 people. "It is important that we are united in our diagnosis and in anticipating the responses we can provide when these highly adverse weather effects occur," Sanchez said during a visit to Huetor Tajar, a town in the southern region of Andalusia hit hard by flooding last week. The Socialist premier reiterated his call for a broad climate agreement to coordinate responses at institutional, economic and social levels, saying conditions in Spain have clearly changed. "That requires resources, but it also requires adaptation to a completely new climate reality that often exceeds scientific forecasts and demands joint work from all levels of government," he added. Since January, Spain has been hit by seven storms. Last week, exceptional rainfall from Storm Leonardo triggered floods and swelled rivers and reservoirs. The storm left two people dead in Spain and one in neighbouring Portugal. More than 6,400 people remained displaced on Monday, down from a peak of over 11,000, according to Andalusian regional authorities. A new storm, Marta, has been affecting the Iberian Peninsula since Saturday, killing a firefighter in Portugal and a road maintenance worker in Spain. "We must all remain on alert. Complicated days are ahead," Sanchez said. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Catherine OHaras cause of death has been officially released, less than two weeks after the beloved Home Alone and Schitts Creek star died at 71. It was initially announced that OHara had died following a brief illness, according to her manager. Now, TMZ reports that the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office published the actors death certificate Monday. It states that OHaras immediate cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in her heart. Rectal cancer was listed as the underlying cause. The death certificate also states that OHara has been cremated, with her remains given to her husband Bo Welch. The Medical Examiners Office did not immediately return The Independents request for further details. Although OHara played a wide variety of characters in a career that spanned five decades, she was perhaps best known for playing mothers. She played Macaulay Culkins character Kevins mother, Kate McCallister, in the first two Home Alone films spawning the viral Kevin! meme before going on to play matriarch Moira Rose in hit TV series Schitts Creek. Culkin was among those leading the tributes to his late co-star, writing on Instagram: Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. Also paying his respects was Pedro Pascal, who worked with OHara in The Last of Us. He wrote: Oh, genius to be near you. Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always. Catherine O'Hara, who died in January at the age of 71, pictured attending the Primetime Emmys in September 2025 ( Getty ) OHara recently earned Emmy nominations for her work on The Last of Us and The Studio the ninth and tenth of her career. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Born in Toronto on March 4, 1954, OHara was the sixth of seven children. In 1974 she joined the cast of The Second City in Toronto, the improv comedy troupe that also helped launch the careers of John Candy, Dan Aykroyd and Gilda Radner. In 1976, the company launched SCTV, a televised sketch comedy show, and OHara became a regular performer. After the show was picked up by NBC for broadcast in the U.S. it became known as SCTV Network 90, and OHara won her first Emmy in 1982 for Outstanding Writing on an episode titled Moral Majority Show. During the 1980s, she landed a number of supporting roles in films including Martin Scorseses After Hours in 1985 and Tim Burtons Beetlejuice in 1988. Decades later she reprised her role as Delia Deetz, mother to Winona Ryders Lydia Deetz, in the 2024 sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The actor met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, on the set of Beetlejuice. Welch is known for his collaborations with Tim Burton, dating back to Edward Scissorhands. The couple married in 1992. OHara is survived by Welch and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker has denied claims by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the United States has set a deadline for a peace deal on Ukraine, The Guardian reported. "That June deadline was mentioned by president Zelenskyy. I dont think that is anything that the United States has put there," he said, commenting on the findings of a report released ahead of the Munich Security Conference. "We want the fighting to end. We want both sides to come together and agree on a peace deal. Wed like it sooner rather than later, and we just want to see the suffering and the killing end in Ukraine," he said. He added that setting deadlines in such circumstances is usually "very dangerous." "I think well just get this done as soon as its ready to get done. But ultimately, both sides, the Russians and the Ukrainians, are going to agree to any deal thats hammered out," Whitaker said. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice On a rain-sodden afternoon in Soho, the Canadian musician known as Peaches finds herself stunned no small thing, given that shes made a career out of shocking others. For more than 30 years, Merrill Nisker has been titillating fans and taunting critics with electroclash hits such as F*** the Pain Away and her sex-positive, avant-garde gigs. After all, whats a Peaches show without a giant flying vagina? Still, the scene we stumble upon together is enough to give even her pause. I dont think that man is alive, Nisker whispers as we slink past an elderly gentleman on the staircase. Im going back up to check hello? She approaches him cautiously. He doesnt move a muscle. Nisker is right: that man isnt alive, rather he is a life-size, hyperrealistic sculpture. Whoa mutters Nisker under her breath, shaking her mottled mullet in astonishment. Its a look that Nisker, now 60 and living in Berlin, is very familiar with. Shell look into the crowd at her gigs and see raised eyebrows, agape mouths, and eyes blown wide by the sight of her onstage in fishnets, pubic hair on show, as she spits lyrics about gender-bending sex positivity while wearing a prosthetic penis. Ive become so comfortable pushing the envelope, it feels like thats my essence, she tells me. Now there isnt any other way. Sometimes I think, Oh, did I push it enough? She memorably pushed the envelope with her 2000 debut Teaches of Peaches, its title a play on her past life as a schoolteacher. Rooted in Eighties synth-punk sounds, the record was spectacular for its audacity. Released between 2003 and 2015, Niskers subsequent albums Fatherf***er, Impeach My Bush, I Feel Cream, and Rub expanded her sonic palette while sharpening her voice on matters of war, reproductive rights, gender constructs and queer desire. Those political concerns are louder than ever on No Lube, So Rude. Many of the tracks stay true to her earlier sound, that brash, bratty mix of electronic, dance and punk, but there is also a conscious effort to move forward. The production is a little more turned up (if you can believe it) and encompasses live sounds even a horn section. open image in gallery Peaches performs in her signature fuschia hot pants at Alexandra Palace in London in 2003 ( Getty ) Its her first album in a decade which isnt to say that she has been hibernating. Far from it, shes delivered a solo rendition of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing all eight roles herself; written and toured an electro opera; appeared in a fashion film directed by John Malkovich. She interpreted Yoko Onos signature performance artwork Cut Piece so superbly that the artist herself said it will never be performed again with such eloquence. Through it all, Nisker has remained remarkably consistent, steadfast in those same ideas she was espousing in her twenties. Its funny because at the beginning people called me a one-trick pony, but this isnt a trick, its a way of life, she says, having to raise her voice over the coffee machine cacophony of the busy London deli weve taken refuge in. Its politics and its something we need to focus on now more than ever. For someone so bold and blunt in her music, Nisker is shockingly soft-spoken in person just another way she defies expectation, I suppose. Already out is the albums lead single Not In Your Mouth None of Your Business a declaration of bodily autonomy built around an unyielding electronic pulse and Niskers signature deadpan delivery. I wish it wasnt a protest song but it is, she says. This whole conversation around who gets to define what a woman is Listen, if they say they are a woman, they are a woman. If they say they are a man, they are a man. They are whoever they say we are, and we need to respect that. A chunk of the profits from her forthcoming tour in North America will go to the Trans Funding Project. I wonder whether Nisker herself, who has upended gender norms and espoused fluidity for as long as I can remember, ever feels drawn to pronouns that arent she/her. Im not concerned with it, she shrugs. I could be called they and I would be fine with that too. But personally, and I guess its because I grew up in a different time, its not as important to me but I understand why it is for others. Marilyn Manson fans would spit on me. I wanted to cry Ten years on from her last album, she finds, I dont give as much of a f*** any more. Im just going to say the s*** that I want to say and slip in all my ideas about whats going on in the world. While shes never been one to mince words, she finds herself speaking up more about ageism, something she has encountered since the earliest days of her career. Back in 2001, NME ran a review of one of her first UK gigs with the title, Grandma, youre scaring the kids. Nisker was 33 at the time. Were only now really understanding theres life for older women, she says, pointing to the many different generations of fans she sees at her concerts. People are not what you think. Its a lot of 50 and up. They want to go out! They want to go out more than the younger ones. Gen Z just wants to stay home. And as for the NME review, she was unbothered. Shes dealt with worse. Like when she opened for Marilyn Manson on tour in 2003: His fans would spit on me. I wanted to cry, she says. On what it was like touring with Manson, who has since been accused of sexual abuse by multiple women (he denies the allegations), Nisker says she wasnt aware of any wrongdoing. I know how it sounds to say I didnt see anything, but I was too busy, she says. We were in our van and they were on their tour bus doing whatever they do. She and Manson didnt spend time together: Hed pat me on the head and say, Go get em, but I did not want to hang around them. open image in gallery The album art for Peachess 2026 album No Lube, So Rude ( The Squirt Deluxe ) Its funny to think that Niskers first proper foray into music, relatively late in her twenties, was as part of a folk trio with a whimsical name, Mermaid Cafe. That said, their cult hit song Gabey and Mike was about two boys in love so, in a way, it was very Peaches indeed. In 1995, Nisker released an album under her own name, Fancypants Hoodlum, which came and went. Then I developed my own band, she says. We all came from a bit of a disgruntled place and we just decided to throw it all away, smoke lots of weed and say a lot of sexual s***, whatever came to our minds. It really set me free creatively and it connected with people. Behind the scenes, though, Nisker had been diagnosed and treated for thyroid cancer something she only disclosed to the public much later. I wasnt interested in using any of that to get attention, she explains. What was important to me was the actual message of my music getting through on its own, so its only in retrospect that I started talking about it. She lets out a little exhale. Really, thyroid cancer is the luckiest cancer but at the time, it just shifts your head into thinking about immortality and intention. Thats what it did for me. The diagnosis prompted Nisker to break up with her husband and also to go solo and record Teaches of Peaches, which is in its own way a break-up album. Ostensibly, its a record of party songs but as Nisker reminds me now: People can party because they have a lot of pain. open image in gallery I love that all these huge pop stars are openly, lyrically queer sometimes it doesnt come off as authentic but its better than hiding ( The Squirt Deluxe ) In the year 2026, a Peaches song may not seem as scandalous as it once did not because she has dulled her edge or lengthened her hot pants (if anything, theyre even shorter) but because gradually she has bent the mainstream to her will. Nisker points to artists like Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan, who have achieved No 1 hits with songs explicitly about their queerness. I love that all these huge pop stars are openly, lyrically queer, she says. Sometimes it doesnt come off as authentic with other people but its better than hiding. Niskers infiltration into the mainstream has no doubt been helped by her participation in pop cultures biggest moments. Her songs have soundtracked Mean Girls, Lost in Translation, 30 Rock, The Handmaids Tale, The Simpsons, South Park, and Sex Education. But her greatest achievement remains the transformative magic that happens in the room of a Peaches concert. The transgender actor Elliot Page once reminisced about how seeing Nisker live changed his life as a teen: She stands tall and she is fearless. That is my definition of a hero, heroine, progressive, icon locked in, and ready to rumble. But Niskers reputation for being fearless is misplaced, she tells me. I fear. I fear for the world. I fear for our future. But I want to be of service and express that its OK to be who you need to be, even though its tough and its not easy. Theres a lot of friction in life, she says, hence the title of her new album. Theres an idea that lube is for menopausal women or whatever, but lube is actually for everybody! she says, suddenly impassioned. We should think of it as something to carry with us the same way we used to carry dental dams or condoms. You know, bring the lube! The worlds rough enough as it is. No Lube, So Rude is out on Kill Rock Stars on 20 February. Peaches is on tour from 17 April; she performs at The Great Escape festival on Friday 15 May. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Coronation Street star Beverley Callard has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 68-year-old, who played Rovers Return barmaid Liz McDonald for three decades on the North West soap, told RTEs Late Late Show on Friday (6 February) that the illness is in its very early stages. She told the shows host Patrick Kielty that she is set to undergo further testing before having an operation and some radiotherapy. Callard, who has recently joined the cast of Irish soap Fair City, said she received the news from her doctor in a phone call just minutes before she was set to start filming. Ive had some tests just before I left the UK, and literally 15, 20 minutes before I was in my dressing room at Fair City, getting ready to go on, she said. And I was quite nervous and thinking, I hope everybody thinks Im all right, whatever. open image in gallery Callard said that the illness is in its very early stages ( PA ) And my consultant rang me and said, youve got to come back to the UK. I said, Well, I cant possibly, Ive just taken a new job. I said Im away for a month, and I was diagnosed with breast cancer. She added that she will travel back to the UK tomorrow, just for a couple of weeks, where her doctors are going to test lymph nodes and lymph glands. But then I need an operation and some radiotherapy, and then Im coming back to Fair City, so I will be back in just a few weeks, she said. Callard told fans that she is feeling absolutely fine but admitted that her head was a bit mashed for the first few days after receiving the diagnosis. open image in gallery The star left Coronation Street in 2020 after three decades on the cobbles ( PA ) The actor joined Coronation Street in 1989 and eventually left the soap in 2020. She has also appeared in the Noughties comedy Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps and has served as a panellist on Loose Women. She took part in Im a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! in 2020. It is estimated that one in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Death in Paradise star Don Warrington has said there was no sneaky intent behind his return to the show despite a backlash over his exit. It was announced in 2024 that Warringtons character Commissioner Selwyn Patterson was leaving the cosy detective show due to a family crisis miles away from the seriess fictional Caribbean location of Saint Marie. However, when the series returned to the BBC last month, Selwyn was also back, with many fans wondering if this was a response from the writers to the outcry caused by his departure. Warrington, 74, has said this is not the case, telling The i: That was just the storyline, nothing more. He explained: The producers thought it would be interesting to have Selwyn reach some kind of crisis, and then, after dealing with it, return. There was no Machiavellian intent. Warrington was happy to learn how much viewers love his role in the show, though, adding: It was certainly very nice to know that my character had penetrated into peoples consciousness to that extent, and that they liked him. He added: It is rather nice to be liked. Death in Paradise stars Don Gilet as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, the fifth lead that the show has had since it premiered in 2011. Previous lead stars include Ben Miller, Ardal OHanlon, Kris Marshall and Ralf Little. Warrington recently praised the series for having two Black leads, saying the programme has taken giant steps in giving a different picture of the world. Don Warrington has returned to 'Death in Paradise' after fan concern ( BBC ) He told Radio Times: Everyone realised the world had changed so we had to change with it. And it has given the series a richness culturally. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. What we are trying to do here is present people of colour in a way that is uncliched they are simply people getting on with the job and in that sense their colour is irrelevant. The new series will see DI Wilson continue adjusting to life in Saint Marie, while also attempting to reconnect with his recently discovered half-brother Solomon (played by TV newcomer Daniel Ward). Meanwhile, Commissioner Patterson will be forced to confront his recent period of absence and attempt to win back the trust of the island. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice John Lithgows non-binary co-star Aud Mason-Hyde has called his decision to star in a new Harry Potter series vaguely hurtful and difficult. Mason-Hyde, who stars opposite Lithgow in new drama Jimpa, hailed their co-star as a beautiful human, but said they found his casting as Hogwarts headmaster Dumbledore to be confusing due to JK Rowlings comments about the transgender community. Mason-Hyde said that it was the positive experience working with Lithgow, 80, that led to feeling so disconcerted by his strange decision to sign up to the forthcoming show. I never felt invalidated or questioned or doubted in my identity or in my transness by him, they told OUT. I consistently felt that he was a very loving and a very guiding co-star, and so theres an element of this that feels vaguely hurtful. Mason-Hyde added: But also I think that hes making this decision after we had made the film and after we had premiered the film, cant take away from what we had and the time that we spent together and the beautiful work that he does in this movie and actually how incredibly authentically he played the role. They said learning the news was definitely a difficult moment in time, adding: I don't think its worth speaking to Johns reasoning by any means, but I do also think that its a strange decision, for sure. And also I found it disconcerting, maybe, is the right word. open image in gallery John Lithgow and Aud Mason-Hyde with Jimpa co-star Olivia Colman and director Sophie Hyde ( Getty Images for Vox Media ) During an appearance at Rotterdam Film Festival earlier this month, Lithgow said he was upset that hes being criticised for signing up to the forthcoming HBO show. He told the crowd that he takes the subject extremely seriously and that the author is not really involved in this production at all branding her transgender rights views ironic and inexplicable. Lithgow said that he finds it particularly confusing that Rowling espouses such beliefs, considering that Harry Potter is about kindness versus cruelty. JK Rowling has created this amazing canon for young people, young kids literature that has jumped into the consciousness of society. Young and old people love Harry Potter and the Harry Potter stories. Its so much about acceptance. Its about good versus evil. In the last six years, Rowling has repeatedly come under fire for various comments about gender, with many, including stars of the Potter film adaptations, accusing her of transphobia. open image in gallery John Lithgow called JK Rowlings trans rights views inexplicable ( Getty Images ) This has led to consternation being directed at the stars who have signed up to the new series. Nick Frost (Rubeus Hagrid), Janet McTeer (Minerva McGonagall), Katherine Parkinson (Molly Weasley) and Johnny Flynn (Lucius Malfoy) are among those who will also appear in the show. Frost previously spoke out on Rowlings views, telling The Observer: Shes allowed her opinion and Im allowed mine they just dont align in any way, shape or form. Frosts opinions echo those of Paapa Essiedu, who will play Severus Snape in the HBO series. Shortly after his casting was announced, the actor was among the hundreds of TV and film professionals who signed a letter calling for industry action on trans rights. The letter was compiled in the wake of the controversial UK Supreme Court ruling that gender is legally based on biological sex, a decision that was celebrated by controversial author Rowling and decried by LGBT+ activist groups. After Essiedus appearance as a signatory on the letter, an insider told MailOnline that Rowling would not be bothered one iota by Essiedus decision and wouldnt dream of intervening to get him sacked, despite being heavily involved in the project. Addressing this report X/Twitter, Rowling wrote: I dont have the power to sack an actor from the series and I wouldnt exercise it if I did.I dont believe in taking away peoples jobs or livelihoods because they hold legally protected beliefs that differ from mine. The Harry Potter series is being filmed now and will premiere in 2027. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Seth Rogen has paid tribute to his The Studio co-star and idol Catherine OHara at the Directors Guild Awards. OHara died on 20 January in Los Angeles at the age of 71 following a brief illness, her manager told Variety. A cause of death has not yet been reported. One of the comedy icons last television roles was as Hollywood executive Patty Leigh in Apple TVs The Studio, for which she earned best supporting actress nominations at the Emmys and the Golden Globes last year. Rogen and The Studio co-director and co-writer Goldberg took home the award for best comedy series on 7 February at the DGA awards, where they dedicated the honour to OHara, and looked back at their experiences of working with the utter genius. Honestly, theres no one we wish we could thank in person at this moment more than we would love to thank Catherine OHara, Rogen said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. We grew up in Canada, and she is and was quite literally our idol since we were children, Goldberg added. He referred to her role as the McCallister matriarch Kate in the first two Home Alone films. Home Alone, honestly, is like the movie that made me want to make movies in a lot of ways. In that movie, shes always yelling Kevin! Kevin! and on set we would be yelling Evan! Evan! Every time she did, its like, Home Alone, Rogen continued. open image in gallery Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen accept the outstanding directorial achievement in comedy series award for 'The Studio' at the 78th Annual Directors Guild Of America Awards ( Getty Images for DGA ) open image in gallery One of Catherine OHaras (right) last television roles was as Hollywood executive Patty Leigh in Apple TVs The Studio, alongside Seth Rogen (left) ( Apple TV+ ) The best part of her is she showed that you can be an utter genius and also the nicest person in the entire world. Every day, we work very hard to make the show good enough to warrant her time and her presence. So ultimately we would like to thank the DGA for this, but we would mostly like to thank Catherine OHara. OHaras Home Alone son Macaulay Culkin was among those paying tribute to his late co-star since her death, writing on Instagram: Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. Rogen at the time called the news of her passing devastating. He said in an Instagram post: I told OHara when I first met her I thought she was the funniest person Id ever had the pleasure of watching on screen. Home Alone was the movie that made me want to make movies. Getting to work with her was a true honour. She was hysterical, kind, intuitive, generous she made me want to make our show good enough to be worthy of her presence in it. This is just devastating. Were all lucky we got to live in a world with her in it. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Marriage breakdowns and cop dramas: two of the great staples of British telly. This psychological obsession with infidelity and espionage is, perhaps, a demonstration of the way in which the small screen offers a lurid portal into the unmentionable, secret sides of our buttoned-up national character. It also provides a roadmap for the new ITV four-part drama Betrayal, which combines these two genres to frustratingly mixed effect. Shaun Evans is John, a British Intelligence operative with a reputation for doing things on his own terms. We all know your gut is good, Simone (Nikki Amuka-Bird), his handler at MI5, tells him, but we have to prioritise using our resources carefully. And so, John goes off on his own, resulting in him witnessing a brutal murder and being lined up for voluntary redundancy. But while hes being squeezed out of the agency, he seems to have unearthed the credible threat of a mass casualty terror attack, possibly organised by the Iranian military. Teaming up with Mehreen (Zahra Ahmadi), a British-Iranian agent, gives John a last chance to salvage his career but it might come at the cost of his strained marriage to Claire (Romola Garai). She is still reeling from a previous affair John had with a colleague, and as John and Mehreen get closer, John and Claire are pulled further apart. Clearly, someone at ITV had the neat idea that you could construct a drama that pairs two types of betrayal. A criminal gang in Stockport, hired by an Iranian general (played by Omid Djalili), betray their country by surveilling, threatening and attempting to assassinate a dissident. Both John and Claire feel tempted to betray their marriage as the nature of their work and background (sorry Im not middle class like you! Liverpudlian John rails) drives a wedge between them. And are there other treacheries lurking amid the agents and informers? Executing this premise is David Eldridge, an acclaimed playwright making his TV serial writing debut, which suggests a degree of ambition. But there is something that happens the minute a writer starts work on a primetime ITV thriller. However intriguing the concept, however competent the assembled talent, the gravitational force of ITVness begins to assert itself. Betrayal starts with an interesting idea a marriage drama masquerading as a spy thriller but quickly reverts to something more familiar. I dont want to be responsible for missing a terrorist attack, John implores his superiors. Do you? And so, hes allowed to run around, a rogue but charismatic secret agent, bribing witnesses, bugging suspects, and having a shoot em up in plain sight. The question of interpersonal betrayal becomes laced with a national security threat. Counterintuitively, the higher the stakes, the less interesting the betrayal. There have been sophisticated shows in this genre (Slow Horses, London Spy, even Black Doves) that treat their protagonists as real people, with real desires and fears. But Betrayal ultimately resolves that, in a 9pm primetime potboiler, emotion must serve to propel the plot. Shaun Evans in Betrayal ( ITV ) Even if its not doing anything interesting, Evans is still a likeable lead. Familiar to audiences from his role as young Morse in Endeavour, he brings an obnoxiousness to John that is pleasingly unusual. Garai one of Britains finest actors, and, last year, a two-time Olivier nominee slightly phones it in as Claire but has enough innate quality to make their relationship plausible. Other performances are less convincing, and certain lines thud off the page. John Hughes, Mehreen announces on first meeting our hero. Your reputation goes before you. The geopolitically focused plot is, I suppose, slightly more novel than Line of Dutys bent coppers or Trigger Points litany of improbably motivated domestic terrorists, but they all, ultimately, play out in the same way. The shock of violence, the draw of suspicion, the gut punch of deception. The bods at ITV could have made Betrayal in their sleep. It is a well-honed formula, and it works: this four-part series will grip audiences for a week, keep them tuning in, and then be forgotten in time for the next show that comes along. It is the dramatic equivalent of a microwave dinner. Sustaining, but not nourishing. Even an intriguing, sophisticated idea lasagna al forno becomes edible, inoffensive mush under these demands. Betrayal might have been actively good, but, instead, it becomes defiantly okay. Betrayal is on ITV1 and ITVX Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Before masculinity was toxic, before colonialism was a dirty word, there was William Goldings Lord of the Flies. A staple of classrooms and thrice adapted for film, the cautionary tale of children reverting to a primal savagery is one of the most influential narratives in all of literature. But what is it about the present moment that makes the BBC think it is ripe for a four-part primetime reimagining? An aircraft, carrying a manifest composed largely of school-age boys, goes down on an uninhabited tropical island. Summoned by Ralph (Winston Sawyers) blowing a conch, the children form a fragile society. Ralph is elected their chief, Piggy (David McKenna) his trusted, but bullied, lieutenant. Jack (Lox Pratt), runner-up in the chieftain vote, leads the groups hunters, alongside Simon (Ike Talbut), a sensitive boy who serves as envoy between the two camps. They are British children of the immediate postwar era, hardened by the conflict and resolved to retain a stiff upper lip. My father is in the navy, and he says there arent any unknown islands left, Ralph tells his people. The Queen has a picture of this island. But thoughts of home of Blighty and Her Maj quickly become secondary to the harsh realities of life in their new home. Hope for rescue is subsumed by an atavistic desire to survive. Goldings classic novel was written as a response to imperialistic boys-own adventure fantasies, which fantasised a world in which children would bring the civilising force of British values to unconquered lands. Adapted here by Adolescence writer Jack Thorne (if other writers are available, British telly commissioners dont seem to have realised), the narrative is more concerned with the teetering patriarchy than the end of Empire. You dont know anything about my father, volatile Jack rages at gentle Simon. No, but I know my father, Simon replies. And I have suspicions that theyre just the same. Absent the steer of adults (grown-ups just know things, laments Piggy), their fragile society mirrors the world theyve left behind. Some take responsibility, some shirk it; some defer to authority, some resist it. Toilets, water, hut-building, Jack lists off. This is boring. And so, the camp becomes divided by boys becoming men in very different ways. The child is father of the man, wrote William Wordsworth in 1802. Two centuries on and Thorne has reignited public conversation about how we treat children, what we expose them to, and the impact that has on their eventual adulthood. His Lord of the Flies renders the themes of Adolescence in parable form. The tormented, divided soul that exists in all people which generates fear and creates the conditions for violence is present, too, in children. The boys on the island, unshackled from influence and responsibility, behave like adults. They tussle for power, imagine exogenous terrors into existence, rationalise their behaviours through the prism of survival. Their fathers the men they will grow up to be are present in the figures of these prepubescent castaways. Like George Orwells Animal Farm, William Goldings Lord of the Flies is often approached by readers too young to fully understand it. This adaptation makes no apology for being aimed at adults. Blood-soaked pig hunts, trippy hallucinations, surges of sudden, shocking violence: Thornes island is a brutal place. Yet the BBC knows, too, that this narrative will resonate with Gen Z audiences (it is, after all, the basic premise of Fortnite) who eat up social satires like The Hunger Games and Squid Game, both of which owe a debt of gratitude to Golding. The issue is that the plot necessarily requires an almost entirely preteen cast, playing off one another in the depths of the jungle. Some of the acting here has the feeling of school drama, precocious children declaiming with excessive confidence. This unevenness is tempered with a rousing score, by Cristobal Tapia de Veer, and Mark Wolfs arresting cinematography. Winston Sawyers as Ralph, holding the conch ( BBC/Eleven/Lisa Tomasetti ) But even if some exchanges feel clunky, Lord of the Flies works because its coterie of child stars is largely very well cast. McKenna, as Piggy, is particularly convincing, as is Pratt, as the unravelling Jack. And while some elements of this adaptation the use of fisheye photography, or the uncanny CGI wild pigs dont quite work, it is overwhelmingly a bold, ambitious vision for the novel. Thorne and series director Marc Munden do not hold back. The four-episode series, shot largely on location in Malaysia, feels feral. Liberated from cans of Lynx Africa, you can almost smell the body odour emanating from these writhing bodies. Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill, the imagined monster snarls, as the boys descend into chaos. For the second time in a year, after Adolescence, Thorne has written a television show that will terrify parents. In bold colours, Lord of the Flies depicts the, often inscrutable, journey to irreversible acts of violence, all perpetrated by little boys with spindly limbs, unbroken voices, and wide, seemingly innocent, eyes. Sign up to IndyEat's free newsletter for weekly recipes, foodie features and cookbook releases Get our food and drink newsletter for free Get our food and drink newsletter for free Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland awards delivered a night of consolidation rather than upheaval, with 20 new one-star restaurants and two new two-star establishments announced, while no new three-star awards were made. The ceremony, held on Monday 9 February in Dublin, was presented by Lisa Hogan, best known for Clarksons Farm, alongside Amanda Stretton, the English racing driver and presenter. The international director of the guide, Gwendal Poullennec, paid tribute to Irelands food culture. All 10 three-star restaurants in the UK retained their status, including Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, which continues to hold the highest accolade under new head chef Kim Ratcharoen. Michelins star rankings are intended as a guide for diners rather than an assessment of luxury. One star denotes high-quality cooking, worth a stop; two stars signal excellent cooking, worth a detour; while three stars are reserved for exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. In 2020, Michelin introduced the Green Star to recognise restaurants leading the way in sustainability, from sourcing and waste reduction to energy use and wider environmental impact. New one-star restaurants announced at the 2026 Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland awards, which saw 20 new additions ( Screengrab ) Among the headline promotions were two restaurants moving straight into the two-star category. Jason Athertons Row on 5, led by Spencer Metzger, was elevated from one star to two for its refined, contemporary fine dining, while Bonheur by Matt Abe, which opened in November, entered the guide at two stars immediately. Bonheur is part of the Gordon Ramsay Restaurants group, and the promotion marks a notable moment for Abe, formerly head chef at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, further extending the Ramsay stables presence at the upper end of the guide. London dominated the new one-star list, with additions including Legado, where Nieves Barragan Mohacho delivers regionally rooted Spanish cooking; Somssi, offering Korean-influenced fine dining at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, which replaced Akira Back's one-star Dosa in August 2025; and The Kerfield Arms, signalling Michelins growing comfort with elevated pub formats. Gordon Ramsay High in Bishopsgate also picked up its first star just over a year after opening, further underlining a strong night for the Ramsay group. Beyond the capital, the guide delivered several long-awaited regional breakthroughs. JORO became Sheffields first Michelin-starred restaurant, recognised for its modern British, produce-led cooking. On the south coast, Mare, led by Rafael Cagali, secured Brightons first star in around 50 years, ending one of the guides most conspicuous geographic gaps. In Cornwall, Ugly Butterfly earned a star for Adam Handlings contemporary, sustainability-focused cooking overlooking Newquays Fistral Beach. Ireland and Scotland were also well represented. In Galway, The Pullman, housed in restored Pullman train carriages at Glenlo Abbey, was awarded a star for Angelo Vagiotiss modern fine dining, while Forest Avenue continued Dublins strong showing. In the Highlands, 1887 at The Torridon picked up its first star alongside a Green Star for sustainability, and Killiecrankie House was recognised for its modern Scottish cooking in a rural setting. The Channel Islands added to their reputation for punching above their weight with a star for Vraic, a seafood-led restaurant rooted in island produce. The evening also highlighted Michelins continued push to recognise sustainability, service and talent development. Seven new Green Stars were awarded, including to Knepp Wilding Kitchen in West Sussex and Forest Side in the Lake District, while Tom Earnshaw of Bohemia in Jersey was named Young Chef of the Year. Shwen Shwen in Sevenoaks took Opening of the Year alongside a Bib Gourmand, reflecting Michelins growing recognition of West African cooking in the UK. While no three-star restaurants lost their awards, a total of 10 restaurants were deleted from the guide this year, the majority following closures. Two one-star restaurants The Bridge Arms in Kent and Humo in London lost their stars, both having ceased trading in their original form. Eight of the 10 deletions were the result of permanent closures over the past year. Among the higher-profile closures were two-starred Claude Bosi at Bibendum, which shut last summer after failing to reach an agreement with its landlords, and La Dame de Pic at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, which closed in February after eight years. Belmond Le Manoir aux QuatSaisons in Oxfordshire was also removed from the guide following its closure in January for an 18-month redevelopment. One-star restaurants to close in the past year included Crocadon in St Mellion, Five Fields in London, Dosa by Akira Back in London and Hjem in Hexham, while Pascal Aussignacs Club Gascon lost its star ahead of its closure next month after 30 years of trading. Gender representation remains a persistent issue. While several women were recognised among this years awardees including Nieves Barragan Mohacho and Clare Smyth, whose more informal Corenucopia received a star Michelin figures still show that only around 8 per cent of Michelin-starred chefs in the UK are women, a statistic that continues to shadow the guides progress. In a year defined less by shock promotions than by steady affirmation, Michelins message was clear: British and Irish fine dining is holding its ground, broadening its geography and cuisines, and rewarding consistency, even if true upheaval remains elusive. New one stars New two stars New green stars Young Chef Award Exceptional Cocktails Award Opening of the Year Sommelier Award Sign up to IndyEat's free newsletter for weekly recipes, foodie features and cookbook releases Get our food and drink newsletter for free Get our food and drink newsletter for free Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice You really cant go wrong with a curry. Warming, filling and tasty, theyre the perfect meal for this time of year. But you dont have to spend all your money on a takeaway to have a delicious curry at home just ask Dan Toombs, AKA the Curry Guy. Toombs, 60, is obsessed with bringing curries to the masses and is releasing his 11th cookbook, The Curry Guy Slow Cooker. After moving from California in 1993, Toombs fell in love with the British curry scene, later begging his way into restaurants to learn the secrets of the perfect dish. Now based near York, Toombs knows a thing or two about taking your curry to the next level. Nail the base The main thing Toombs learnt from his time in curry house kitchens? Its all about the base. Theres a base sauce for pretty much every curry thats made, he says. Its quite a bland sauce, similar to chicken stock or vegetable stock. When its not seasoned, you have this bland stock that you add to almost every curry, and the magic happens when it hits the pan, because you have different spices to make the different curries. So if you get this base sauce down and its quite simple to make, according to Toombs youre golden. Its the secret behind how to make real curry house-style foods. Its not something they do very much in India, its really a British thing. This base sauce is basically an onion stock a lot of places will put other vegetables in it, like cabbage and green pepper, but nothing that has bite to it, and from there you can create pretty much any curry you like. Go off-piste open image in gallery The Curry Guy Slow Cooker is Toombs 11th cookbook and his most hands-off yet, designed for deeper flavour with less effort ( Quadrille ) While recipes are a useful guide, Toombs warns against getting too hung up on them. A lot of people concentrate too much on the recipe rather than what they personally enjoy, he explains. So if you like quite a saucy curry, add more stock when youre cooking, or if you enjoy spice, pump up the chillies. He recommends trying things as you go, especially if youre trying to teach yourself how to cook, so you can begin to know what the different spices taste like and will know how to adjust your dish accordingly. Its all about trial and error: Youll get the idea behind it, and you can make up your own recipes once you know how to use that base sauce. Dig out your slow cooker If you have a slow cooker, it could be the secret to more flavourful curries with a whole lot less effort. What you do get from a slow cooker is a more intense flavour, because youre not trying to rush things, Toombs says. Youre letting all those ingredients melt together. Plus, its a lot easier than slaving over a hot stove. The thing I like about slow cookers is you really can set them and forget them, so you can go to work and know theres not going to be any kind of issues. Youre not going to burn anything to the bottom of the pan or anything like that. Toombs recommends trying his recipe for lamb nihari in the slow cooker. Its a northern Indian/Pakistani dish which is traditionally cooked over a low heat and simmered for about three or four hours, so its perfect for a slow cooker, he explains. You can put it in a slow cooker on high for about four hours, or if you go to work and put the meat in there which is normally lamb shanks just let it become really tender for eight hours [on the low setting]. Theres another benefit to trying your next curry in the slow cooker, with Toombs saying it transforms some of the cheaper cuts of meat into the best dishes, saving you a bit of money along the way. A lot of times, the cheap cuts have the most flavour the reason why theyre cheap is because they take so long to cook. But if youre putting it in the slow cooker, it doesnt make any difference. You let it sit there and simmer until its cooked through and really tender, and you get a better flavoured meat and its a lot less expensive. Prep your own spice blends and pastes open image in gallery After decades chasing curry-house secrets, Toombs still cooks the dishes he actually wants to eat at home ( Kris Kirkham ) Toombs top tip is to make your own spice blends and pastes at home. While it might require a bit of labour to start with, once youve got them sorted, youll be able to make the most delicious curries saving you time and money. Toombs suggests that ground spices that have been sitting on the supermarket shelf for a while might not be their best. So if you buy fresh, whole spices, You can toast them, you can make them taste better than just adding them in their ground form Its something you can just throw into a curry and you know its going to taste good. The same goes for spice pastes and Toombs has recipes for Rogan Josh and tikka masala pastes and more in his new book. Once youve whipped them up, he recommends storing them in a preserve jar with an airtight lid, topping them up with oil so the flavour stays fresh. Spices, once theyre ground, start to lose their flavour. But by making these pastes and covering them with oil, youre giving them a longer life, he says. I use them all the time. Try something new From a jalfrezi to a Madras, there are the classic curries we all know and love. But if you really want to take things up a notch, Toombs recommends trying something new like his recipe for a Sri Lankan black chicken curry. Unlike in India, where they dont really use curry powders that much theyll use different spices, like garam masala. But in Sri Lanka, they use curry powders quite a lot, he says. Curry powder is a lot of warming spices that can also have chillies in it And the black chicken curry is one I learnt when I was over in Sri Lanka, its one of my favourites. You roast the curry powder until its almost black its like chocolatey brown, and that gives it a really intense flavour. I havent seen it in any other curries from other parts of the world, its something very Sri Lankan, and if youre looking for something unique, thats what you have to try. Butter chicken open image in gallery Curries like this prove that time, not complexity, is often the missing ingredient ( Kris Kirkham ) Butter chicken is usually made with grilled tandoori chicken, and the creamy yogurt marinade is mixed with cream to make the sauce, says Toombs. This version is quite a lot easier but you still get a very good, if perhaps less authentic, butter chicken. For this recipe, you can make your own spice blends and pastes, or use store-bought if thats easier. Serves: 4 Ingredients: 1kg chicken thighs, skinned and cut into small pieces For the marinade: Juice of 1 large lemon 2 tbsp rapeseed oil 1 level tsp sea salt 1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 1 tbsp Kashmiri chilli powder 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander tsp ground turmeric 1 generous tsp tandoori masala For the sauce: 15 raw cashews, soaked in water for 15 minutes 250ml passata 2 tbsp ghee or rapeseed oil 2 medium red onions, blended with 2 tbsp water if needed 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder or paprika 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander tsp sugar, or to taste 100g butter 200ml double cream, whisked 1 tbsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) tsp garam masala Sea salt, to taste For the garam masala (makes 170g): 6 tbsp coriander seeds 6 tbsp cumin seeds 5 tsp black peppercorns 4 tbsp fennel seeds 3 tsp cloves 7.5cm real cinnamon stick 5 dried Indian bay leaves 20 green cardamom pods, lightly bruised 2 large pieces of mace For the tandoori masala (makes 120g): 3 tbsp coriander seeds 3 tbsp cumin seeds 1 tbsp black mustard seeds 5cm real cinnamon stick Small piece of mace 3 dried Indian bay leaves 1 tbsp ground ginger 2 tbsp garlic powder 2 tbsp dried onion powder 2 tbsp amchoor 1 tbsp (or more) red food colouring powder (optional) For the garlic and ginger paste (makes about 250g): 150g garlic, roughly chopped 150g root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped Method: 1. For the garam masala: Roast all the spices in a dry frying pan over a medium-high heat until warm to the touch and fragrant, moving them around in the pan as they roast and being careful not to burn them. If they begin to smoke, take them off the heat immediately. Tip the warm spices onto a plate and leave to cool, then grind to a fine powder in a spice grinder or pestle and mortar. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place and use within two months for optimal flavour. 2. For the tandoori masala: Roast the whole spices in a dry frying pan over a medium-high heat until warm to the touch and fragrant, moving them around in the pan as they roast and being careful not to burn them. If they begin to smoke, take them off the heat. Tip onto a plate to cool. Grind to a fine powder in a spice grinder or pestle and mortar, then tip into a bowl. Stir in the ground ginger, garlic powder, onion powder and amchoor. Stir in the red food colouring powder (if using). The masala will not look overly red like the commercial brands. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place and use as required, within two months for optimal flavour. 3. For the garlic and ginger paste: Place the garlic and ginger in a food processor or pestle and mortar and blend with just enough water to make a smooth paste. Some chefs finely chop their garlic and ginger instead, which is a good alternative to making a paste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use as needed. If youre planning a curry party, go ahead and get this job ticked off early. The paste can turn a bit blue or green while in the fridge. This is natural and it is not off. I often make larger batches and freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, the cubes can be transferred to airtight plastic bags in the freezer, ready for when you get that curry craving. Be sure to let them defrost a little first. 4. For the butter chicken: Whisk all the marinade ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. 5. Add the chicken pieces and stir them in to coat. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes or up to four hours but no longer! Strain the soaked raw cashews and blend them with the passata for the sauce together until smooth. Set aside. 6. When ready to cook, heat the ghee or oil in your slow cooker using the saute/searing mode or in a pan over a mediumhigh heat. When it begins to bubble lightly, remove as much of the marinade from the chicken as you can and retain all the marinade. Saute the chicken in one layer for about five to seven minutes to lightly char the exterior. Transfer to a plate using a slotted spoon. The chicken will not be cooked through at this point. 7. Now stir in the blended onions and fry for about five minutes to cook out the raw flavour. Then stir in the garlic and ginger paste and fry for an additional minute. Stir in the chilli powder or paprika, cumin, ground coriander and sugar, then pour in the blended passata and cashews and bring to a simmer. Stir in the chicken and all the marinade. Bring back to a simmer. 8. In your slow cooker, put on the lid and cook for three hours on the high setting or six to eight hours on low until the chicken is cooked through. 9. Stir in the butter and let it melt into the sauce. Then add the whisked cream (you dont have to add it all if you dont want to). 10. Add the kasoori methi by rubbing it between your fingers over the sauce, then stir in the garam masala. Season with salt to taste just before serving. Dal makhani open image in gallery Slow cooking allows cheaper cuts and bold spices to do their best work without rushing the process ( Kris Kirkham ) Dal makhani isnt a dal you can rush, as these lentils need a good long cook so this recipe is perfect for the slow cooker, says Toombs. In fact, I think they are better if you cook on low for eight to 10 hours rather than trying to speed things up by cooking on the high setting. So some forward planning might be a good idea. I usually soak the lentils all day on day one, then place them in the slow cooker overnight. Once they are cooked, this is a quick and easy dish. This version is quite a lot easier but you still get a very good, if perhaps less authentic, butter chicken. Serves: 4 or more as part of a multi-course meal Ingredients: 300g black urad dal, soaked overnight in cold water 750ml boiling water, plus extra if needed 5 tbsp rapeseed oil 2 onions, finely chopped 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tbsp garam masala 1 tsp paprika 250ml single cream 2 tsp sea salt, or to taste 3 tbsp butter, or to taste 4 tbsp chopped coriander leaves, to garnish For the garam masala (makes 170g): 6 tbsp coriander seeds 6 tbsp cumin seeds 5 tsp black peppercorns 4 tbsp fennel seeds 3 tsp cloves 7.5cm real cinnamon stick 5 dried Indian bay leaves 20 green cardamom pods, lightly bruised 2 large pieces of mace For the garlic and ginger paste (makes about 250g): 150g garlic, roughly chopped 150g root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped Method: 1. For the garam masala: Roast all the spices in a dry frying pan over a medium-high heat until warm to the touch and fragrant, moving them around in the pan as they roast and being careful not to burn them. If they begin to smoke, take them off the heat immediately. Tip the warm spices onto a plate and leave to cool, then grind to a fine powder in a spice grinder or pestle and mortar. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place and use within two months for optimal flavour. 2. For the garlic and ginger paste: Place the garlic and ginger in a food processor or pestle and mortar and blend with just enough water to make a smooth paste. Some chefs finely chop their garlic and ginger instead, which is a good alternative to making a paste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use as needed. If youre planning a curry party, go ahead and get this job ticked off early. The paste can turn a bit blue or green while in the fridge. This is natural and it is not off. I often make larger batches and freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, the cubes can be transferred to airtight plastic bags in the freezer, ready for when you get that curry craving. Be sure to let them defrost a little first. 3. For the dal makhani: For best results, rinse and then soak the urad lentils for eight hours. Rinsing is required but you could get away with not soaking them. It might just take longer for them to cook. 4. Place the lentils in your slow cooker, pour in the water and cook on low for eight hours. Sometime during the day, when it is convenient, heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium-high heat and add the chopped onions. Fry for 10 minutes, or until the onions are soft, translucent and lightly browned and then add the garlic and ginger paste and fry for a further minute. Turn off the heat and stir in the tomatoes, chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala and paprika. Stir for a minute into the hot oil, then set aside. 5. Check the lentils after eight hours to ensure they are fall-apart soft. If not, continue cooking. Once soft, mash them with a potato masher or blend using a stick blender. 6. Pour in the prepared onion and spice mixture. You want the dal makhani to be good and hot, so if serving later you could reheat it using the saute/searing mode of your slow cooker or in a pot on your stove. 7. Just before serving, stir in most of the cream and season with salt to taste. Top with the butter, which will melt into the dal. I usually swirl a little cream on top at the end before garnishing with the chopped coriander. Lamb niharil open image in gallery Once youve nailed the base, everything else heat, richness, spice becomes a matter of taste ( Kris Kirkham ) You can choose the cuts of lamb you want to use for this recipe. Use only lamb shanks or perhaps go with shanks and some shoulder, says Toombs. This is also good made with stewing beef, as it is seared before slow cooking. You will need about one kilogram of meat not including the bones, regardless of what you choose. This is a delicious curry that is served at the table with chopped coriander, lemon wedges, julienned ginger and chopped green chillies to taste. Serves: 4-6 Ingredients: 70ml rapeseed oil or ghee 2 onions, thinly sliced 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 2 lamb shanks and 500g lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces tsp sea salt, plus extra to taste For the spice blend: 1 whole nutmeg, crushed into small pieces 1 blade of mace 2 tbsp fennel seeds 3 Indian bay leaves, shredded 2.5cm real cinnamon stick or cassia bark, broken into small pieces 1 tsp black peppercorns 1 tsp nigella seeds 1 tsp cloves 2 tsp cumin seeds 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp hot chilli powder 1 tsp ground ginger 2 generous tbsp chapati flour (if you are gluten free, you can substitute 3-4 tbsp of cornflour) To serve: Rice, chapatis or rumali roti 5cm piece of root ginger, peeled and julienned 2-3 hot fresh green chillies, finely sliced 1 handful of coriander leaves Lemon wedges For the garlic and ginger paste (makes about 250g): 150g garlic, roughly chopped 150g root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped Method: 1. For the garlic and ginger paste: Place the garlic and ginger in a food processor or pestle and mortar and blend with just enough water to make a smooth paste. Some chefs finely chop their garlic and ginger instead, which is a good alternative to making a paste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use as needed. If youre planning a curry party, go ahead and get this job ticked off early. The paste can turn a bit blue or green while in the fridge. This is natural and it is not off. I often make larger batches and freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, the cubes can be transferred to airtight plastic bags in the freezer, ready for when you get that curry craving. Be sure to let them defrost a little first. 2. Place all the whole spices for the blend in a spice grinder and grind to a fine powder. There is no need to roast them first when making a nihari. Add the paprika, chilli powder, ginger and chapati flour and blend again to combine. Set aside. 3. Heat the oil or ghee in your slow cooker using the saute/searing mode or in a pan over a mediumhigh heat and add the sliced onions. Fry for about eight minutes or until soft, brown and translucent. 4. Stir in the garlic and ginger paste and fry for another minute. Season the meat with the salt and add it to the pot. Stir regularly for about five minutes to brown the meat and then add the nihari spice blend. Stir well so the meat is completely coated with the spice blend and then add 500 millilitres of water. 5. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to the high setting for four hours or low for six to eight hours. Push the meat down as much as you can into the liquid. The meat will reduce in size as it cooks and there will be more gravy when finished, so dont be tempted to add more liquid. 6. When the meat is fall-apart tender, lift the lid. If it is too watery, you can reduce it down using the saute/searing function of your slow cooker with the lid off, or in a pan. The sauce should be quite thick thanks to the flour in the spice blend. Season with salt to taste and serve over rice or with chapatis or rumali roti. Serve with the ginger, green chillies, coriander leaves and lemon wedges, which can be added to taste at the table. Curry Guy Slow Cooker by Dan Toombs (Quadrille, 16.99). Get the Well Enough newsletter with Harry Bullmore for tips on living a healthier, happier and longer life Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In 2021, a unit of healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson announced a leap forward. It had added artificial intelligence to a medical device used to treat chronic sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses. Acclarent said the software for its TruDi Navigation System would now use a machine-learning algorithm to assist ear, nose and throat specialists in surgeries. The device had already been on the market for about three years. Until then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had received unconfirmed reports of seven instances in which the device malfunctioned and another report of a patient injury. Since AI was added to the device, the FDA has received unconfirmed reports of at least 100 malfunctions and adverse events. At least 10 people were injured between late 2021 and November 2025, according to the reports. Most allegedly involved errors in which the TruDi Navigation System misinformed surgeons about the location of their instruments while they were using them inside patients heads during operations. Cerebrospinal fluid reportedly leaked from one patients nose. In another reported case, a surgeon mistakenly punctured the base of a patients skull. In two other cases, patients each allegedly suffered strokes after a major artery was accidentally injured. open image in gallery The FDA has received reports involving dozens of AI-enhanced devices, including a heart monitor said to have overlooked abnormal heartbeats and an ultrasound device that allegedly misidentified fetal body parts ( Getty Images ) FDA device reports may be incomplete and aren't intended to determine causes of medical mishaps, so its not clear what role AI may have played in these events. The two stroke victims each filed a lawsuit in Texas alleging that the TruDi systems AI contributed to their injuries. The product was arguably safer before integrating changes in the software to incorporate artificial intelligence than after the software modifications were implemented, one of the suits alleges. Reuters could not independently verify the lawsuits allegations. Asked about the FDA reports on the TruDi device, Johnson & Johnson referred questions to Integra LifeSciences, which in 2024 purchased Acclarent and the TruDi Navigation System. Integra LifeSciences said the reports "do nothing more than indicate that a TruDi system was in use in a surgery where an adverse event took place." It added that there is no credible evidence to show any causal connection between the TruDi Navigation System, AI technology, and any alleged injuries. Insight into the incidents comes as AI is beginning to transform the world of health care. Proponents predict the new technology will help find cures for rare diseases, discover new drugs, enhance surgeons skill and empower patients. But a Reuters review of safety and legal records, as well as interviews with doctors, nurses, scientists and regulators, documents some of the hazards of AI in medicine as device makers, tech giants and software developers race to roll it out. At least 1,357 medical devices using AI are now authorized by the FDA double the number it had allowed through 2022. The TruDi system isnt the only one to come under question: The FDA has received reports involving dozens of other AI-enhanced devices, including a heart monitor said to have overlooked abnormal heartbeats and an ultrasound device that allegedly misidentified fetal body parts. Researchers from Johns Hopkins, Georgetown and Yale universities recently found that 60 FDA-authorized medical devices using AI were linked to 182 product recalls, according to a research letter published in the JAMA Health Forum in August. Their review showed that 43% of the recalls occurred less than a year after the devices were greenlighted. That's about twice the recall rate of all devices authorized under similar FDA rules, the review noted. FDA STRUGGLING TO KEEP PACE The AI boom poses a problem for the FDA, five current and former agency scientists told Reuters: The agency is struggling to keep pace with the flood of AI-enhanced medical devices seeking approval after losing key staff. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the FDA, said its looking to boost its capacity in this area. Another form of artificial intelligence, generative-AI chatbots, is also making its way into medicine. Many physicians are now using AI to save time, such as in transcribing patient notes. But doctors also say many patients use chatbots to self-diagnose or challenge professional advice, posing new challenges and risks. (See related story.) Artificial intelligence became a business and social sensation after the launch of ChatGPT about three years ago. ChatGPT and other popular chatbots, such as Googles Gemini and Anthropics Claude, use so-called generative AI to create content. They are built on top of large language models, or LLMs, which are trained on huge troves of text and other data to understand and generate human language. These AI tools are now being introduced into medical areas such as consumer healthcare apps. AI encompasses more than LLMs, however, and the technology made its way into medicine long before AI bots appeared. The field dates back more than 70 years: A key moment was when British mathematician Alan Turing asked in a 1950 paper, "Can machines think?" The FDA authorized its first AI-enhanced medical devices in 1995 two systems that used pattern-matching software to screen for cervical cancer. The type of AI used in medical devices today is often called machine learning, along with a subset known as deep learning, which are trained on data to perform specific tasks. The technology is used in radiology, for example, to enhance and analyze medical images. It can help diagnose cancers by identifying tumors that doctors may overlook. Such systems are also used in surgical devices. In June 2022, a surgeon inserted a small balloon into Erin Ralphs sinus cavity at a hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. According to a lawsuit filed by Ralph, Dr. Marc Dean was employing the TruDi Navigation System, which uses AI, to confirm the position of his instruments inside her head. The procedure, known as a sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive technique to treat chronic sinusitis. A balloon is inflated to enlarge the sinus cavity opening, to allow better drainage and relieve inflammation. But the TruDi system misled and misdirected Dean, according to the lawsuit Ralph filed in Dallas County District Court against Acclarent and other defendants. A carotid artery which supplies blood to the brain, face and neck allegedly was injured, leading to a blood clot. According to a court filing, Ralphs lawyer told a judge that Deans own records showed he had no idea he was anywhere near the carotid artery. Reuters wasnt able to review the records, which are subject to a judicial protective order. After Ralph left the hospital, it became apparent that she had suffered a stroke. The mother of four returned and spent five days in intensive care, according to a GoFundMe fundraising drive that was organized to support her recovery. A section of her skull was removed to allow her brain room to swell, the GoFundMe appeal stated. I am still working in therapy, Ralph said in an interview more than a year later in a blog about stroke victims. It is hard to walk without a brace and to get my left arm back working, again. SINUPLASTY, A STROKE, AND A LAWSUIT In May 2023, Dean was using TruDi in another sinuplasty operation when patient Donna Fernihoughs carotid artery allegedly blew. Blood was spraying all over even landing on an Acclarent representative who was observing the surgery, according to a lawsuit Fernihough filed in U.S. District Court in Fort Worth against Acclarent and several manufacturers. One of Fernihoughs carotid arteries was damaged. She suffered a stroke the day of the surgery, according to her suit. Acclarent knew or should have known that the purported artificial intelligence caused or exacerbated the tendency of the integrated navigation system product to be inconsistent, inaccurate, and unreliable, the suit alleges. Acclarent has denied the allegations in both suits, which are ongoing, according to court filings. The company says it did not design or manufacture the TruDi system but only distributed it, according to court filings. Acclarent's owner, Integra LifeSciences, told Reuters theres no evidence of a link between the AI technology and any alleged injuries. Dean began consulting for Acclarent in 2014 and received more than $550,000 in consultants fees from the company through 2024, according to Open Payments, a federal database that tracks financial ties between companies and physicians. At least $135,000 of those fees related to the TruDi system. An attorney for Dean said the doctor couldnt comment due to patient privacy and ongoing litigation. Integra said Dean is no longer a TruDi consultant and that payments made to him after it acquired Acclarent were for meals. In 2021, Acclarents president at the time, Jeff Hopkins, was pushing to put AI in TruDi as a marketing tool to claim that the device had new and novel technology, Fernihoughs suit alleges. The TruDi software uses machine learning to identify specific segments of a patients anatomy and calculate the shortest, valid path between two points specified by the physician, according to an Acclarent post on LinkedIn. The technology is designed to simplify surgical planning and provide real-time feedback during procedures such as sinus operations. Acclarent officials had approached Dean about the plan to add AI, the Fernihough suit states. The surgeon warned Hopkins and Acclarent that there were issues that needed to be resolved, the complaint adds. Despite that warning, the suit claims, Acclarent lowered its safety standards to rush the new technology to market, and set as a goal only 80% accuracy for some of this new technology before integrating it into the TruDi Navigation System. Reuters couldnt establish whether Dean issued the warning. Reporters were unable to review material submitted in support of Fernihoughs claims, which is subject to a judicial protective order. Hopkins, the former Acclarent president, did not respond to a request for comment. WRONG BODY PARTS The FDA cautions that reports of adverse events and device malfunctions are limited: They often lack detail, are redacted to protect trade secrets, and cant be used alone to place blame. The agency also sometimes receives multiple reports for a single incident. Reuters found that at least 1,401 of the reports filed to the FDA between 2021 and October 2025 concern medical devices that are on an FDA list of 1,357 products that use AI. The agency says the list isn't comprehensive. Of those reports, at least 115 mention problems with software, algorithms or programming. One FDA report in June 2025 alleged that AI software used for prenatal ultrasounds was misidentifying fetal body parts. Called Sonio Detect, it uses machine learning techniques to help analyze fetal images. Sonio detect software ai algorithm is faulty and wrongly labels fetal structures and associates them with the wrong body parts, stated the report, which does not say that any patient was harmed. Sonio Detect is owned by Samsung Medison, a unit of Samsung Electronics. Samsung Medison said the FDA report about Sonio Detect does not indicate any safety issue, nor has the FDA requested any action from Sonio. The HHS spokesperson didnt respond to questions about Sonio Detect. At least 16 reports claimed that AI-assisted heart monitors made by medical-device giant Medtronic failed to recognize abnormal rhythms or pauses. None of the reports mentioned injuries. Medtronic told the FDA that some of the incidents were caused by "user confusion." The AI algorithms in Medtronics LINQ series of implantable cardiac monitors are described as deep learning artificial intelligence. They have greatly reduced false alerts and retained true alerts of heart events, according to the companys website. But the company also says on its site and in product literature that its AI technology, AccuRhythm AI, can misclassify actual abnormal heart rhythms or pauses. Medtronic told Reuters that it reviewed all 16 episodes and concluded its device only missed one abnormal heart-rhythm event. None of these reports resulted in patient harm, it said. Medtronic said some of the incidents were related to problems with data display, not the AI technology. It declined to explain fully what went wrong in each incident. The HHS spokesperson said the agency doesnt discuss possible or ongoing compliance matters. FDA CUTBACKS UNDER TRUMP In interviews, five current and former FDA scientists who reviewed AI-powered medical devices told Reuters that federal regulators are now less equipped to handle the flood of new ones. About four years ago, the FDA expanded its roster of scientists who specialize in AI, particularly for reviewing medical imaging and radiology devices that use the technology. Many recruits were stationed in the Division of Imaging, Diagnostics and Software Reliability (DIDSR). The unit became the agencys key resource for assessing the safety of AI in medicine, one current and two former FDA employees told Reuters. It grew to about 40 people early last year. Some senior regulators have no idea how these technologies work, one ex-employee said. We sat closely with senior regulators and explained to them why we think this technology is safe or not safe to use in the market. It wasnt easy to lure top talent to government service. Recruiting computer scientists often required persuading them to turn down higher pay in the private sector. In their work, scientists tried to break the devices AI models, a former employee said. They would test a devices algorithms in a variety of clinical situations and check whether the AIs performance deteriorated over time. They also sought to minimize hallucinations, in which AI models sometimes generate false information, FDA officials wrote in a paper published in October. But early last year, the Trump administration began to dismantle the AI team as part of Elon Musks cost-cutting campaign, the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. About 15 of the 40 AI scientists in the DIDSR unit were laid off or opted to go, the FDA insiders said. Another unit that crafted policy on devices using AI, the Digital Health Center of Excellence, lost about a third of its staff of around 30. Andrew Nixon, the HHS spokesperson, said the FDA is applying the same rigorous standards to medical devices aided by machine learning and other AI as it would to any product. Patient safety is the FDAs highest priority and is at the forefront of our work to protect and promote the public health, Nixon said. The FDA sees tremendous promise in the digital health space, including devices enabled with AI and machine learning, to help diagnose and treat a range of conditions. He said the FDA continues to recruit and develop talent with expertise in digital health, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Since the cuts, the workload has nearly doubled for some device reviewers, said two ex-employees. If you dont have the resources, things are more likely to be missed, said a former device reviewer who left last year. The FDA requires clinical trials for new drugs, but medical devices face different screening. Most AI-enabled devices coming to market arent required to be tested on patients, according to FDA rules. Instead, makers satisfy FDA rules by citing previously authorized devices that had no AI-related capabilities, says Dr. Alexander Everhart, an instructor at Washington Universitys medical school in St. Louis and an expert on medical device regulation. Positioning new devices as updates on existing ones is a long-established practice, but Everhart says AI brings new uncertainty to the status quo. I think the FDAs traditional approach to regulating medical devices is not up to the task of ensuring AI-enabled technologies are safe and effective, Everhart told Reuters. Were relying on manufacturers to do a good job at putting products out. I dont know whats in place at the FDA represents meaningful guardrails. Member of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence Iryna Friz (from the European Solidarity faction) has asked Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov to explain the decision to disband the Second International Legion. "I receive appeals from servicemen regarding the decision to disband the Second International Legion and transfer personnel to assault units, so I sent an appeal to the Defense Minister with a request to clarify the technical nuances of the process and the strategic goal," Friz told Interfax-Ukraine on Monday. According to her, the military draws attention to the key problems that arise in connection with such a reorganization: in particular, the inconsistency of the tasks that will be set in the new unit, their training and qualifications, as well as the inability to effectively implement operations and tactics that have been developed during the existence of the legion. "Among the problems voiced by the military personnel is the language barrier, because in the International Legion all commanders were bilingual, and high-quality communication and mutual understanding in war is the preservation of the lives of soldiers. They also emphasize the deceived expectations of volunteers who were supposed to serve in a separate unit, and the decrease in morale. According to the military personnel, the transfer of part of the personnel led to 'slump' in certain positions and losses among the personnel," the MP said. According to Friz, this decision not only raises questions about the future integration of foreigners into these units, but also encourages volunteers to terminate their contracts due to disappointment with the decisions of the military leadership. "As of today, the decision to liquidate the Second International Legion has significantly reduced the flow of foreign volunteers into the Armed Forces and led to the termination of contracts by foreign volunteers," the MP said. She also added that the Ukrainian army is currently in critical need of motivated servicemen, so state policy must be stable and ensure conditions of service for volunteers from different countries of the world. Get the Well Enough newsletter with Harry Bullmore for tips on living a healthier, happier and longer life Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Two-thirds of heroin and crack addicts come off street drugs or reduce their use after six months of treatment, researchers report today. The findings of the largest-ever study of heroin and crack cocaine treatment programmes, published in The Lancet, will come as a relief to drug agency workers who feared their efforts were having little impact. Heroin and crack addicts often lead chaotic lives, fuelled by the proceeds of crime, which are among the hardest to turn around. However, the findings came with caveats over the robustness of the results, in the absence of a control group, and the length of time the benefits were expected to last. Drug addiction typically follows a relapsing and remitting course and many addicts take years to shake the habit. There are an estimated 330,000 problem users of heroin and crack cocaine in the UK of whom 180,000 receive treatment each year. Heroin addicts are given methadone on prescription, a non-euphoric opiate that removes the craving for a fix but allows them to stabilise their lives. Some also receive cognitive behaviour therapy or counselling. There is no pharmacological substitute for crack cocaine and these addicts receive only psychosocial treatments. The study involved 14,656 patients from 1,000 community treatment agencies across England who received at least six months' treatment in 2008. The findings showed 42 per cent of the heroin users reported having stopped using the drug and 29 per cent reduced their use in the month prior to their assessment. Among the crack users, 57 per cent stopped and 8 per cent reduced their use. Success rates were lower among addicts who used both drugs. The researchers said this could be because they were the most hardened addicts or that crack may reduce the effectiveness of methadone treatment. "Heroin and crack cocaine corrupt the way we think, remember, make decisions, plan and behave," said John Marsden, of the Institute of Psychiatry, who led the study. "These people have had their lives messed up big time. This is the largest study of the most commonly available drug treatments in England and unequivocally concludes that present drug treatment for heroin and crack addiction is very effective in the first six months." Colin Bradley, of the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse, which funded the study, said treatment had expanded hugely in the past eight years and waiting times had plummeted from over a year to a few weeks. "We have doubled the numbers in treatment, there is a greater choice of services and psychosocial treatments are much more widespread," he said. "But it's a first step people do not respond in a uniform way." Treatment with methadone costs 3,000 to 5,000 per year per addict and the average period in the programme is 10 months. The total national cost is 800m a year. Thomas McLellan, deputy director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy in Washington says in a commentary on the findings in The Lancet that serious addiction is best considered as a chronic condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure. Short-term interventions may not produce long-lasting effects, he warns. "It may be more reasonable to expect enduring improvements through sustained outpatient clinical management with drugs and behaviour therapies," he added. Case Study: The former heroin addict Stuart Hagues is a 32-year-old single father of a four-year-old, living in Southampton. A drug user since the age of 12, he has been on methadone and off heroin for almost a year. He is studying for a Drug and Alcohol National Occupational Standards (Danos) certificate and volunteers to help with substance-misuse programmes. "I came from a good background: my parents work, my brother works. It was just a case of the wrong time, the wrong place and the wrong estate where I came from in Hull. I was the youngest in a group of eight or nine and was led astray. I have been taking drugs since I was 12 cannabis, LSD, speed, and then buprenorphine [an opiate]. I was 15 when I first took heroin. I was taking it weekly at the beginning but it escalated into crime, burglary and drug-dealing. "I was arrested for burglary, and I have been on and off methadone ever since. I have been in detox 17 times and put forward for rehab. "Getting off drugs has been hard. It is hard to get a job, as I left school with no qualifications. The physical withdrawal may last only four or five days, but mentally it is a battle for the rest of your life. "Methadone has probably saved a lot of lives but methadone won't cure anybody unless they want to sort themselves out. This time, they told me, 'Sort your life out or you will lose your son'. At some point, it was die or stop drugs." 57% Of crack users in treatment give up the drug. Get the Well Enough newsletter with Harry Bullmore for tips on living a healthier, happier and longer life Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Novo Nordisk has sued Hims and Hers Health for patent infringement after the U.S. telehealth firm launched, then canceled, a $49 copy of Novo's weight-loss pill Wegovy. The lawsuit, which covers Novo's weight-loss drugs in pill and injectable forms, highlights the friction between obesity drugmakers and pharmacies that mix the active ingredients, harming the earnings of the original drug manufacturers. "There is now a growing chorus of parties that have said, enough is enough on the compounding situation in the United States," Novo Nordisk's general counsel, John Kuckelman, told Reuters. He said Hims' pill launch was a "tipping point." The lawsuit, Hims said, was a "blatant attack" by Novo on "millions of Americans who rely on compounded medications for access to personalized care." The lawsuit is the latest escalation of a price war between companies manufacturing weight loss drugs ( Getty Images ) "Once again, Big Pharma is weaponizing the U.S. judicial system to limit consumer choice," it said. Novo's shares jumped nearly 6% Monday, while Hims sank 25% in morning trading. Shares of Novo and rival Eli Lilly had tumbled last week after Hims introduced the cut-price pill, which had looked set to erode Novo's takings and jeopardize its shift towards a cash-pay consumer market. 'WAR ON GLP-1 COMPOUNDERS IN GENERAL' Analysts said the lawsuit and the unusually rapid U.S. Food and Drug Administration response could mark a broader crackdown on compounded GLP-1, potentially easing competition on the big manufacturers' patented weight-loss treatments. "They are not only declaring war on Hims & Hers' Wegovy pill, but GLP-1 (compounders) in general," said Sydbank analyst Soren Lontoft Hansen. Novo said it was "asking the court to permanently ban Hims from selling unapproved, compounded drugs that infringe our patents, and is seeking to recover damages." U.S. regulations have allowed compounding pharmacies to make and sell some brand-name medicines if they are in short supply. Without a shortage, however, compounding is only allowed in the U.S. when the drug is personalized for a patient, for example, at doses not available in the branded medicines. NOVO, LILLY STRUCK PRICING DEALS WITH TRUMP Hims, whose pill was based on semaglutide - the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's blockbuster drugs Wegovy and Ozempic - said Saturday it would stop offering the treatment. Novo and Lilly struck high-profile pricing deals with U.S. President Donald Trump last year and their weight-loss drugs are prominent on the new TrumpRx discounted-drugs website. "I think the FDA made it quite clear that they would not tolerate a compounded Wegovy pill. This was an attack on the authority of the FDA," said Markus Manns at Novo and Lilly shareholder Union Investment. Lilly's shares, already near record highs, were up about 1%. RARE VICTORY FOR NOVO AS IT FIGHTS COMPOUNDED DRUGS The FDA said Friday it would restrict GLP-1 ingredients used in non-approved compounded drugs, helping revive Novo's shares. Still, intense competition continues in the rapidly shifting GLP-1 market as Eli Lilly and compounding pharmacies offer injectable versions of semaglutide. Novo Nordisk's market value is down nearly 50% over the past year. Its stock sank 17% in a day last week after it flagged "unprecedented price pressure." Despite pioneering the obesity drug market, the recent setbacks show how quickly Novo's dominance has eroded. And with Eli Lilly's oral GLP-1 pill orforglipron expected to receive FDA approval in April, competition is set to intensify. In the key U.S. market, the obesity drugs made by Novo Nordisk and Lilly are driving a shift to a consumer-focused market in which drugmakers are looking toward cash-pay channels and telehealth to reach tens of millions of Americans. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The owner of more than 100 Burger King franchises in Wisconsin has been ordered to pay more than $1 million in fines after officials found over 1,500 violations of child labor laws. Cave Enterprises, LLC, has been ordered by Wisconsin officials to pay $237,000 to child workers and a $828,000 penalty to the state, Fox 6 Now reported. Wisconsin officials launched an investigation into Cave Enterprises, LLC, after 33 separate complaints were filed from 2023 to 2025, alleging violations of child labor and wage laws, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Cave Enterprises, which operates 105 franchises of the fast food chain across the state, was found to have violated Wisconsin child labor laws at least 1,656 times. At least 600 kids were involved in the companys infractions. The owner of over 100 Burger King franchises in Wisconsin has to pay a hefty fine after officials found nearly 2,000 child labor law violations ( Getty/iStock ) It was still shocking even to our investigators to see that out of 105 locations around the state, violations were found at 103 locations, involving over 600 minor workers, said Amy Pechacek, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary. This is the largest case that we have seen of youth working violations in modern history. We have quite honestly not seen anything to the depth and breadth of what this audit uncovered, Pechacek added. The state says it found that 593 children ages 14 and 15 were allowed to work at the Burger King franchises without a child labor work permit, which is required by the state. The investigation also found that 627 teenage employees worked shifts of six hours or longer without a meal break, violating state law. The state found violations at locations in Menomonee Falls, Oak Creek, Oconomowoc, Waukesha, West Bend, West Allis, Kenosha, Beaver Dam and Racine, according to Fox. Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, blamed Republican lawmakers for eroding child labor laws in the state. After years of Republican lawmakers working to get rid of Wisconsins basic child labor law protections, Im proud my administration is working to do the opposite by making sure bad actors are held accountable for taking advantage of kids in the workplace, Evers said in a statement. The Independent has contacted Cave Enterprises for comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former cop who allegedly killed an unarmed homeless man was able to take multiple international flights while he had a warrant out for his arrest for murder, according to a report fromThe Los Angeles Times. Clifford Proctor shot Brendon Glenn while on duty as a Los Angeles police officer in May 2015. Glenn, 29, was killed after Proctor and another officer, Jonathan Kawahara, responded to calls about the homeless man and his dog causing a disturbance at a Venice Beach bar. The officers attempted to arrest Glenn which resulted in a struggle before Proctor shot him twice in the back, authorities said. Glenn died in hospital. Proctors defense attorneys said their client believed Glenn was reaching for his partners gun. In 2018, when Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey declined to bring charges against Proctor, she explained that it was not unreasonable for Proctor to open fire based on that belief. Former LAPD Chief Charlie Beck disagreed with the findings and publicly called for Proctor to be charged with a crime. The citys police commission found the 2015 shooting to be unjustified. Lacey was defeated in the 2020 election by George Gascon after her failure to prosecute police for fatal shootings and other on-duty uses of force sparked outrage and protests. After Gascon took office, he hired special prosecutor Lawrence Middleton to reexamine Laceys decisions in four use-of-force cases involving law enforcement officers, including Glenns killing. open image in gallery LAPD Officer Clifford Proctor (far right), who is pictured on crutches, resigned in 2017 and has been charged with murder for the shooting death of Brendon Glenn in 2015 ( CBS ) open image in gallery Proctor was indicted in the death of 29-year-old Brendon Glenn (pictured), after the district attorneys office reopened the investigation into the 2015 shooting ( GoFundMe ) Grand jury transcripts, unsealed last year, revealed that Kawahara said he did not believe Glenn was going for his gun. I didnt feel or see Mr. Glenn trying to disarm me, Kawahara testified against his former partner. On September 20, 2024, Proctor, who had resigned from the LAPD in 2017, was charged with second-degree murder. However, an arrest warrant was not issued until October 3, 2024, because authorities needed an opportunity to locate the defendant, according to a transcript of the grand jury proceedings unsealed last year. On October 2, 2024, Proctor flew to Trinidad, where he holds dual citizenship, according to court documents filed in November. Proctors defense attorney Tom Yu said it was a pre-planned vacation and that he was not trying to escape justice. Proctor was not arrested until October 2025 at Los Angeles International Airport by Customs and Border Protection agents. open image in gallery At the time of the shooting, former District Attorney Jackie Lacey declined to file charges, saying Proctor believed Glenn was reaching for his partners gun. But video evidence and testimony from Proctors partner contradicted that account ( Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office ) The Los Angeles Times had previously reported that Proctor was arrested by CBP at LAX after arriving on an international flight. However, Yu claimed Proctor had remained in the U.S. for long periods and was preparing to leave the country at the time he was taken into custody, according to a November court filing. Yu provided travel documents in the filing that show Proctor was scheduled to fly from Los Angeles to Panama City on October 16, 2025. The defense attorney said his client was unaware he was wanted for murder until his arrest. Proctor has pleaded not guilty to the charge of second-degree murder. He was here in the U.S. What happened to all of 2025? He was here. Did they just let the year skip? Sorry, we forgot? Yu wrote in the November filing, calling the failure to act reckless. Greg Risling, from the LA County DAs office, told The LA Times that investigators monitored Proctors home in Carson in October 2024 but by the time his arrest was authorized, Proctor was nowhere to be found. Risling also confirmed that the DAs office did not check up on Proctors Carson home or make any other attempts to arrest him before he was detained at LAX in October 2025. open image in gallery Glenn had been kicked out of a bar and when police arrived on the scene, he got into an argument with Proctor who threatened to shoot his dog ( GoFundMe ) If we were aware of his location, he wouldve been taken into custody, Risling said. A CBP spokesman told The LA Times that agents encountered Proctor several times at airports outside the state of California after the indictment was handed down, but the terms of the warrant prevented them from making an arrest. The warrant was restricted to in-state pick-up only and did not permit extradition to California, they said. Proctor was released from custody in November 2025 on $100,000 bail, and given permission by the judge to travel to Seattle, Washington for work. Prosecutors have not decided whether to take the case to trial. Proctor is expected back in court next month. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The apparent abduction of Today show host Savannah Guthries mother has been the talk of social media ever since the news broke last week. Influencers pored over the timeline from the hours after Nancy Guthrie was last seen and posted photos of blood found on her front porch, which was later found to be a match for the 84-year-old. Others accused people connected to the case of looking sus (suspicious), or uploaded videos of themselves walking through Guthries neighborhood in an attempt to find her. The search for the grandmother, who authorities believe was taken against her will a week ago from her home just outside Tucson, Arizona, has become the latest investigation to pique the interest of online armchair sleuths. As the search continues with no suspects or persons of interest, posts across Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook and YouTube, featuring tips and theories surrounding her disappearance, have garnered millions of views. But they have also helped to amplify rumors and forced law enforcement to repeatedly set the record straight on at least one crucial detail. Michael Alcazar, adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and retired New York Police Department detective, said overall, the positives outweigh the negatives when it comes to the onslaught of social media posts. open image in gallery Nancy Guthrie went missing on February 1 ( AP ) More people are aware; It keeps people alert," he said. "If they know she hasnt been found yet, perhaps people will remember that and if they see something, they might say something. He compared it to the widespread online response to the disappearance and death of Gabby Petito in 2021 and the impact that may have had on her body being found. Two YouTubers said at the time that an image they posted showed Petito and her boyfriend's white van and that it led investigators to the area where her body was found. But the FBI didn't specify what led to the discovery. I think its just something that we have to adapt to as far as law enforcement," Alcazar said. The true crime community is growing. ... Theres a lot of people out there that want to help. But with the widespread posts also comes the proliferation of misinformation. Ashleigh Banfield, from the cable network NewsNation, announced on her podcast Wednesday that a law enforcement source told her a Guthrie family member is the prime suspect. She seemed to quickly walk back the statement seconds later, saying the person may be a prime suspect, and adding that family members are often looked at first. The information quickly took off across social media, with people posting photos of the person she named. open image in gallery Savannah Guthrie (right) with her mother Nancy (left) ( NBCUniversal Media ) Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos addressed the rumor early in a news conference Thursday, saying authorities don't have any suspects or persons of interest. That remained the case on Friday. I plead with you to be careful of what it is we put out there. ... You could actually be doing some damage to the case, you could do some damage to the individual, too, he said later in the news conference. Social medias kind of an ugly world sometimes. Other posts have included a medium expressing her feeling that Guthrie is close by and a woman using astrology to point her viewers in the direction of what may have happened. Calvin Chrustie, who has more than three decades of experience in negotiations for kidnapping, ransom and extortions, said if the public truly understood the toll those situations can have on family and law enforcement, they might not hastily post unsubstantiated information. This stuff on X and other stuff out there thats pure speculation is actually making it more difficult for the families and making it more difficult to the police to secure the safe, you know, the safe return of the hostage, he said. open image in gallery The home of Nancy Guthrie, the missing mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, is seen from above in Tucson, Arizona ( Associated Press ) Julie Urquhart, an elementary school teacher in New Brunswick, Canada, has been posting about the case on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. She said she was drawn to the disappearance because she has a mother near Guthrie's age and was fascinated that someone could have taken her seemingly without a trace. Urquhart said her information comes from national news sites and law enforcement news conferences. One of her posts on TikTok and Instagram amassed more 4 million views, she said. Thats 4 million eyes that now saw that story and now maybe will see something or know something or know someone who does," she said. "There's just so many people it hits. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A 10-year-old boy accused of stabbing a 13-year-old girl to death in Texas claims he was acting in self-defense, police say. Riley Dearmas was killed during a massive brawl in Houston involving 20 to 30 people, Houston Police Lt. Larry Crowson revealed at a press conference. Officers were called to the scene around 8 p.m. last Wednesday after reports of a stabbing outside an apartment complex in Grow Lane. [They] located a juvenile female suffering from a stab wound. Houston Fire Department paramedics transported her to an area hospital where she was pronounced deceased, the police department said in a statement. Further investigation determined there was an altercation between two groups of individuals, including the juvenile female, at the location which led to the female suffering a stab wound. Riley is yet to be formally identified as the victim by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, but her family said that she was the girl who had been killed. Riley would have turned 14 next month, and is described by her family as joyful and happy ( Facebook ) Her mother rejected the suggestion that Riley had been stabbed in self-defense because she was part of an attack, describing her as a gentle and loving child. She was not a violent person. She would never harm anyone intentionally, Ashley DeArmas told local CBS affiliate KHOU. The narrative thats going around right now about my daughter, that was not Riley. On Saturday evening, nearly 100 family members and close friends gathered to remember Riley by releasing a sea of balloons, many of which were purple in tribute to her favorite color. Riley, who would have turned 14 next month, was described by her mother as joyful, free-spirited, and happy. Instead of me celebrating her 14th birthday, Im celebrating and trying to bury my daughter right now. These balloons could have been for her 14th birthday, not her death, Rileys mom said. She did not deserve it. She did not deserve to die. Well-wishers attending the gathering hugged and wept as the balloons floated into the sky. Rileys aunt Megan DeArmas said: I will never get a chance to hug her, to tell her I love her, because her life was just cut so short. The boy who was detained over the killing was later released pending further investigation, with homicide investigators asking the prosecutors office how they want to proceed with charges, Lt. Crowson said at the press conference. It's a 10-year-old, Crowson told media, in remarks reported by KHOU. That is the minimum age of criminal responsibility in the state of Texas, so charges could be filed. That'll be up to the district attorney. The Harris County District Attorneys Office has said it will make a decision on charges once police have completed their investigation. Anyone with information about the killing is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A woman is accusing federal agents of animal cruelty after a marshal appeared to kick her small dog during her boyfriends arrest in Tennessee. Emma Hollingsworth, of Memphis, claimed the incident broke her miniature Schnauzer Yoshis rib and he is now recovering with painkillers after a trip to the vet. The Marshals Service insists the kick was not done with malice and instead as a last resort. In a video clip to Facebook showing the altercation, Hollingsworth acknowledged that agents had an arrest warrant for her boyfriend. Court records obtained by local channel Action News 5 says Jaquize Henderson was wanted in connection with a commercial burglary in North Mississippi. In the footage, several armed marshals are seen outside an apartment building while nine month-old Yoshi runs around them, barking. Agents are heard giving orders that the dog be restrained but Hollingsworth later told Action News 5 she was unable to do so because a marshal was blocking her doorway. One of the marshals then appears to kick Yoshi, punting the animal off the ground. He was at no harm, they literally kicked him for no reason, Hollingsworth said in her Facebook video. The U.S. Marshals Service insist they were mitigating a dangerous situation (file photo) ( Department of Justice ) Hollingsworth later took him to the vet, she said, where he was treated for a broken rib and prescribed medication. This isn't protection this is abuse. U.S. Marshals came to our home, used unnecessary force, and kicked my dog, leaving him with a broken rib, she wrote on Facebook. Power doesnt excuse abuse. Ever. This is very unacceptable. The Independent has contacted the Marshals Service for comment. In a statement to media outlets, a spokesperson offered an alternative version of events, claiming that during the execution of the arrest a dog from one of the apartments got loose and tried repeatedly and aggressively to attack the working K9. While the appearance of the incident is unfortunate, the deputy marshals action was not done with malice, the statement continued. It was a last resort, split-second action taken by a law enforcement officer to control the environment and mitigate a dangerous situation. An uncontrolled, aggressive animal can hinder official duties and threaten safety. It also reminded dog owners to always keep their pets leashed. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 EU Ambassador to Ukraine welcomes appointment of Boyko as interim head of Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine The European Union Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, welcomes the appointment of Natalia Boyko as interim head of the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine. She wrote about this on social network X on Monday. As Ukraine's energy system remains under attack; stable & transparent leadership of key state-owned enterprises strengthens resilience and security, Mathernova noted. As reported earlier today, the Supervisory Board of GTSOU LLC appointed Boyko, former deputy head of the Supervisory Board of Naftogaz of Ukraine, as acting CEO of OGTSU. The Supervisory Board made this decision at its meeting on February 7, 2026. By previous decision of the Supervisory Board, Boyko had been appointed to the OGTSU directorate as deputy CEO. The current board of directors of the society includes Natalia Boyko, Vladyslav Medvedev, Borys Liubych, Kateryna Kovalenko and Oleksandr Timofeev. As the GTSOU noted, Boyko has had over 15 years of professional experience in the energy sector. In addition to her position as Deputy Head of the Supervisory Board of Naftogaz of Ukraine, she also served as an advisor to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. Energy Reform's sources noted that after Shmyhal's appointment as Minister of Energy, he considered Boyko for the position of Deputy Minister of Energy, but she declined the offer. A few days ago, Boyko announced her resignation from the Naftogaz Supervisory Board. A group of attorneys and prison reform advocates stand on the steps outside the U.S. Middle District Court of Louisiana in Baton Rouge during a press conference Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. A civil trial that has played out at the Baton Rouge courthouse this week contemplates whether the so-called Farm Line at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola violates prisoners Eighth Amendment constitutional rights. Advertisement Updated BusinessCompaniesBondi shooting ASIO v ABC: Broadcaster stands by Bondi investigation after spy agency rebuke Calum Jaspan and Ben Cubby Updated February 9, 2026 4:54pm ,first published 12:57pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A ASIO has issued a rare public statement declaring it holds grave concerns about the accuracy of an ABC investigation into the Bondi massacre set to air on Four Corners on Monday night and warning of further action if false claims are broadcast. The statement released on Sunday evening claims the ABC has relied in part on an unreliable and disgruntled source who had misidentified one of the alleged gunmen, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, and confused some of his actions before the attack with things done by someone else. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess last week. Alex Ellinghausen The ABC is standing by the story, which it said used extensive reporting and numerous sources to examine the Akrams actions leading up to the attack. ASIO, which has not seen the program, said its ability to respond to Four Corners questions was constrained as it did not want to risk prejudicing the royal commission into antisemitism and the ongoing criminal investigation against Akram. Advertisement Akram has been charged with murdering 15 people in the December 14 attack, in which his father and alleged co-conspirator Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. The first of two parts of Four Corners investigation was led by reporter Mark Willacy, airing last week. It provided an account of the events of the day of the attack, told by those present. The second part, led by reporter Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop, will investigate the secret lives of the terrorists, uncovering astonishing new information about the years leading up to the attack, according to the ABC. The ABC will on Monday night air the second part of a Four Corners investigation into the Bondi terror attack. Christopher Pearce ASIOs statement, made in response to unknown ABC questions and released publicly in an unusual pre-emptive move, notes that the domestic intelligence agency investigated Naveed Akram in 2019 using its most sensitive capabilities. We assessed he did not adhere to or intend to engage in violent extremism at that time. Having reviewed all available intelligence, we stand by our assessment at that point in time, the statement said. Four Corners claims contain significant errors of fact. Advertisement ASIO said if the ABC chooses to publish claims it cannot substantiate [...] we will reserve our right to take further action. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Herzog visit as it happened: Chaos in Sydneys CBD as pro-Palestine protesters clash with police; Israeli president speaks at ICC The Bondi royal commission is required to complete its first report by April. It will examine, among other things, whether Australias intelligence and law enforcement services were as effective as they could have been in stopping the attack, how they co-operated and whether they were hampered by legal rules. ASIO said an ABC source had a track record of making statements that are untrue. The agency rejected previously reported claims that Naveed Akram is a close associate of terrorists. The claims Four Corners is making were investigated at the time and found to be unsubstantiated, ASIO said. Advertisement The ABCs source mis-identified Naveed Akram. That is, the source claimed Naveed Akram said and did things that were actually said and done by an entirely different person. To be clear, Four Corners source mis-identified Naveed Akram, and therefore the associated claims are untrue. Related Article Bondi shooting A father, a son and the radical world of terror An ABC spokesperson defended the program as a comprehensive investigation examining the events leading up to the worst terrorist attack on Australian soil. Four Corners spoke to numerous people and provides a number of sources of information for a detailed picture of the Akrams actions and associations in the years leading up to the Bondi attack, the spokesperson said. Detailed questions were put to ASIO and its response is reflected in the story. The public will be able to watch the full investigation tonight. Advertisement Rubinsztein-Dunlop declined to comment. Related Article ABC More Insight than Q+A: David Speers to host ABCs new town hall show The source accused by ASIO of misidentifying Naveed Akram is thought to be a former ASIO agent who spent years undercover infiltrating an Islamic State-linked network in Sydney, and whose work contributed to arrests, convictions and disruption of terrorist planning, according to previous ABC reporting. The man is currently living in hiding overseas, away from his family, due to threats arising from his work with ASIO. He had relocated to Australia from the Middle East to help combat Islamic extremism, said The Information Rights Project, a charity that advocates for whistleblowers. Advertisement We ask people to put themselves in harms way to protect the public. But when they expose truths that are politically or institutionally inconvenient, they are isolated, punished, and abandoned, said Gabriel Shipton, the charitys founder and brother of WikiLeaks Julian Assange. In its statement, ASIO also rejected expected ABC accusations of understaffing and suggestions that redundancies at the intelligence agency in 2020 might have contributed in some way to its ability to prevent the massacre. The claim any resourcing decision increased the likelihood of the Bondi attack is false, irresponsible and demonstrates profound ignorance of ASIOs prioritisation frameworks and enduring investment in counterterrorism, ASIO said. Tragically, ASIO did not know what the perpetrators of the Bondi attack were planning or indeed that they were planning anything. ASIO said given the questions the ABC asked and that reporter Rubinsztein-Dunlop had previously broadcast false claims about ASIO and the Akrams, it held grave concerns about the accuracy of the proposed story. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter. Advertisement Sponsored BusinessCompaniesBulls N' Bears Second gold system looms for Gateway in WA Brought to you by BULLS N BEARS Rowena Duckworth February 9, 2026 12:46pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Gateway Mining has added another attractive piece to its growing Yandal gold puzzle, unveiling shallow gold mineralisation at a newly defined prospect known as Hummer, just west of the companys Haflinger discovery in Western Australia. The early results have come from wide-spaced aircore drilling targeting a structural splay off the regionally significant Celia Shear Zone - the same fertile architecture that underpins much of the companys gold endowment across its Horse Well gold camp. Drilling rig at Gateway Minings Yandal gold project in Western Australia. Gateways first pass has already delivered oxide gold intercepts, highlighted by 16 metres at 1.0 grams per tonne (g/t) gold from 64m, featuring a higher-grade 4-metre thick domain running at 2.7g/t gold. Notably, those shallow oxide hits came from just two drill lines spaced 400 metres apart. The extent of the mineralisation bears strong similarities to the northernmost aircore intercepts at Gateways nearby Haflinger discovery, suggesting the company may be sitting on the fringes of a much larger mineralised system. Advertisement Our systematic approach to exploration through the Celia-Mustang area is continuing to yield very significant results. Gateway Mining executive chairman Andrew Bray Historical drilling in the area barely scratched the surface, with most holes stopping in the depletion zone and never reaching the key shear-hosted targets now being unlocked by Gateways more systematic approach. Within the Yandal camp, stacked mineralised gold veins tend to develop along sheared contacts between intermediate volcanics, mafic volcanic units and intrusive margins. This is a classic signature for Yilgarn-style shear-hosted gold systems, with the same geological architecture seemingly present at Hummer. Data modelling shows that Hummer sits on a flexed segment of a splay structure branching from the main Celia Shear Zone. The flexure is critical as it creates dilation zones that act as pressure-release valves for gold-bearing fluids. Significantly, around 4km of strike length remains untested. Magnetic imagery shows stronger structural bending further south, where a northeast-trending fault offsets the splay structure. Gateway believes this area could host enhanced dilation and potentially higher-grade gold as drilling steps out along strike. Advertisement The company has already added 52 additional aircore holes to its ongoing two-rig drilling campaign to infill and extend the Hummer footprint north and south. Notably, no drilling to date has intersected the target shear zone in fresh rock, leaving plenty of blue-sky upside once deeper and more focused drilling begins. Gateway Mining executive chairman Andrew Bray said: Our systematic approach to exploration through the Celia-Mustang area is continuing to yield very significant results, and we look forward to discovering further major zones of gold mineralisation as drilling continues southwards through the broader project area. Gateways Yandal project lies 85 kilometres northeast of Wiluna and spans a vast 1,780 square kilometre patch on the eastern flank of the world-class Yandal Greenstone Belt. This belt is one of Australias most prolific gold-producing regions and home to Northern Star Resources nearby Jundee mine. Jundee has been a cornerstone operation in the region since mining began 30 years ago, producing gold from both underground and open-pit operations. Its success has long underlined the prospectivity of the Yandal Greenstone Belt, particularly for Archaean, high-grade, narrow-vein lode-style deposits. Gateways broader Yandal project already hosts an inventory of 8.17 million tonnes at 1.52 grams per tonne gold for 400,400 ounces. The resource is centred on the Horse Well Gold Camp and the Dusk til Dawn deposit and provides a solid foundation for ongoing exploration success. Advertisement The companys growth push at Yandal is backed by a strong balance sheet, with $19.4 million in cash and a further $9.3 million in liquid ASX-listed securities as at the end of the December quarter. Gateway says that firepower gives it ample runway to aggressively test multiple targets across the broader CeliaMustang trend this year. With gold prices hovering near record highs and majors increasingly hungry for quality ounces in safe jurisdictions, Gateways emerging discoveries near Haflinger are shaping up as more than just geological curiosities. If Hummer continues to deliver as drilling tightens up, the company may well be on its way to defining the next meaningful gold system in the Yandal belt. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Bulls N' Bears Shares Sharemarket Advertisement CultureArt & designExhibitions Why this artist is turning Australias feral animals into mummies Linda Morris February 10, 2026 6:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A In Ancient Egypt, animals were frequently bred for the afterlife, destined to become sacrifices to the gods. Today, the Nicholson Collection at the Chau Chak Wing Museum holds 14 of these linen-wrapped animal mummies including cats, ibises and crocodiles once entombed in vaults and catacombs as votive offerings. Western Australian sculptor Abdul-Rahman Abdullah has dedicated much of his practice to exploring the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world. Living on a cattle station with his wife, Anna, and their two children, Abdullahs daily life is surrounded by chickens and a tank full of fish, but notably, no pets. For Undying, Abdul-Rahman Abdullah has carved five mummified feral animals, including a blue heeler. Steven Siewert In May 2024, when the museum invited him to develop a solo show inspired by this 19th-century collection, he was particularly struck by three mummified baby crocodiles, originally preserved in ceramic jars. Advertisement In response, Abdullah created five intricate hand carvings representing feral animals in the Australian landscape. Rendered in semi-mummified forms, the sculptures include a blue heeler, a pig, a fox, a rabbit and a cat. Im drawing a very wobbly line to forever and perpetuity, and a straight line to animals introduced to Australia, Abdullah explains. As a result of unforeseen events, these species were given a whole new life in a new country. The Australian landscape was not prepared for these apex creatures; once they arrived, they thrived and went feral. The environment is still bearing the cost, yet from the animals perspective, it is a paradise. The exhibition, Undying, also shines a light on animals that died in the service of science. Abdullah notes that until recently, taxidermy displays were central to museum collections worldwide, often serving as a story of empire. To address this, he created models of pigeons among thousands of rare ornithological objects in the museums natural history collection. It is a bitter irony, he says, that to study creatures, we kill them all. Advertisement Undying marks Abdullahs first solo museum show and his first solo exhibition in Sydney. Coming from WA, its a landmark show for me, he says. The majority of these works have never been seen before. It is a bitter irony that to study creatures, we kill them all, says Abdullah. Steven Siewert The commission, partly funded by Creative Australia, predates the 2024 controversy surrounding Abdullahs social media posts regarding the war in Gaza, an event that led to his resignation from the board of the National Gallery of Australia. The Muslim Australian artist declines to comment on these events, saying he wants the work to speak for itself. Abdullahs move into sculpture began 20 years ago as an illustrator and model maker, eventually designing animal enclosures at the Perth Zoo. Advertisement The European Business Association (EBA) expressed concern about the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers to resume unscheduled state geological control measures, its statement said, citing the position of member companies of the EBA Subsoil Use Committee. According to a statement on the European Business Association website, on January 28, 2026, the government adopted Resolution No. 121, allowing unscheduled inspections in the field of geological control during martial law. The association emphasized that the move contradicts the Cabinets program, which declares a five-year moratorium on business inspections. The EBA said that resuming inspections would place additional pressure on businesses. The association also noted that the State Regulatory Service had previously repeatedly denied approval for acts restoring such inspections, and Draft Resolution No. 121 was not published for public consultation, preventing the business community from providing feedback. Subsoil users are calling on the government to reconsider the decision and propose allowing unscheduled oversight of rational subsoil use only when justified and based on a decision by the Ministry of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture. Advertisement CultureMoviesVale Schitts Creek star Catherine OHaras cause of death revealed Chris Hook February 10, 2026 10:02am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Schitts Creek star Catherine OHara died of a pulmonary embolism, US media reported on Monday (US time). The death certificate was released Monday by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiners Office, published by US website TMZ, then picked up by other media. Catherine OHara in a scene from Schitts Creek. AP A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot gets stuck in a blood vessel in the lung. The death certificate revealed the 71-year-old stars underlying cause of death was rectal cancer. Advertisement The Canadian-born OHaras death at her home in Los Angeles on Friday, January 30, following a brief illness was first revealed by her agency CAA, which did not provide any further information at the time. OHara began her career with improvisational troupe The Second City in Toronto in the 1970s, where she first met her lifelong collaborator Eugene Levy, with whom she later starred in Schitts Creek. Loading The two were among the original cast of the sketch show SCTV, short for Second City Television, which spawned a legendary group of comedians including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis and Joe Flaherty. I grew up in a different time than now. The internet didnt exist, so from my experience we were very much influenced by comedy like Monty Python and comedies that came out of England, Ireland, Scotland, the UK, than by what came out of the US, OHara told this mastheads culture editor at large Michael Idato in 2020. Advertisement We didnt, in my experience, have such a strong sense of nationalism, she added. Our sense of humour was not only to be able to make fun of the rest of the world but to make fun of ourselves, which, I think, is the healthiest sense of humour you can have. Its lovely. I hope we keep our proud Canadian modesty. Schitts Creek was created by Levy and his son Dan; its tale of a wealthy family forced to live in a tiny town would dominate the Emmys in its sixth and final season. It brought OHara, always a beloved figure, a new generation of fans and put her at the centre of cultural attention. From left: Eugene Levy, Dan Levy, Catherine OHara and Annie Murphy attend the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards. Rich Fury/Getty Images It also brought a career renaissance that led to a dramatic turn on HBOs The Last of Us and a straitlaced role as a Hollywood producer in The Studio, both of which earned her Emmy nominations. However, she told Idato that she actually passed on the Schitts Creek role until Eugene and Dan Levy decided to give her one more call. Advertisement Related Article Streaming Moira, Cookie and Kevins mum: Where to watch Catherine OHaras memorable roles The reason she passed? OHaras genesis as a sketch actor left her uncertain when it came to anything resembling a potentially long-running role. Thank god I did say yes, OHara said. Ive done movies but thats three months work at the most. I think it was more fear-based the concept of committing to one character. OHara was also well known for roles as Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice, Kate McCallister in the Home Alone movies, Marilyn Hack in For Your Consideration and Cookie Fleck in Best in Show. I feel fortunate that anybody knows me as anything, that Im in peoples lives somehow, their childhoods, OHara told Idato ahead of the release of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice in 2024. Advertisement Thats the best, to be part of holiday ritual of watching Home Alone or Nightmare Before Christmas, or I just feel honestly, really fortunate. She is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and sons Matthew and Luke. Find out the next TV, streaming series and movies to add to your must-sees. Get The Watchlist delivered every Thursday. Advertisement CultureTV & radioReview Forbidden love is the heartbeat of this overwhelming and tragic Belfast drama Craig Mathieson February 10, 2026 10:07am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Trespasses As a teenager in the 1980s, I didnt understand why the sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland was referred to as The Troubles. Was it meant to be deliberately vague, or was there a touch of the dramatic to it? The news headlines of bloody bombings and paramilitary murders offered nothing but tragedy. The term, I eventually learnt, was a historic synonym, stretching back centuries, like so much of Irelands history. But I never let go of my deliberation: using The Troubles allowed the overwhelming to be briefly encompassed. Michael Agnew (Tom Cullen) and Cushla Lavery (Lola Petticrew) in Trespasses. That feeling of the vast and incomprehensible becoming the norm is essential to this four-part British drama. Adapted from Louise Kennedys 2022 debut novel of the same name, and set in 1975 outside and in Belfast, the show captures the corrosively brutal divide between the Protestant and Catholic communities. Loyalists are hungry for Catholic blood, warns a priest at the primary school where Cushla Lavery (Lola Petticrew) teaches, while a students father, who is Catholic but married to a Protestant, is severely beaten by his neighbours. Everything is divided, violence the governing communication. Advertisement Editor's pick Review The boys are (still) not all right in Adolescence writers fresh take on a dark classic The atmosphere is grim, as life in Northern Ireland slowly tips over into asymmetric warfare. At nights, Lola works in the family pub run by her older brother, Eamonn (Martin McCann), where off-duty British soldiers come to drink. Whether theyre customers or an occupying force is menacingly unclear, but Cushlas worries are only stoked by her mother, Gina (Gillian Anderson), a widowed alcoholic whose universal scorn is acidic. Cushlas response, whether heroic or beyond risky, is simple: she falls into an urgent, covert love affair with prominent Protestant barrister Michael Agnew (Tom Cullen). Love, whether as an act of emotional companionship or an expression of fierce physical desire, is the corrective heartbeat of Trespasses. The intensity between the two is both forceful and a secret. Not only are they on either side of the sectarian divide, even though Michael defends Catholic youths in Protestant-dominated courts, but he is also an older married man with children. The social fault-lines, plus the personal power dynamic, are fraught between the two, but that only spurs them on. Cushla and Michaels needs are also, you realise, overwhelming. Gillian Anderson as Gina Lavery in Trespasses. Advertisement Editor's pick Streaming Hes not ashamed: How a real-life criminal mastermind inspired iconic TV crook There are melodramatic touches, whether its Michael declaiming for a peaceful future or the romantic montages that offer shorthand for the pairs happy bond, but the show written by Ailbhe Keogan and directed by Dawn Shadforth has the self-awareness to know everyone reacts to the systemic spread of chaos in different ways. Gestures do matter, as does physical touch. Its clear Cushla and Michael cant maintain their affair, so the inevitable ramifications given horrible dimension by an opening flash-forward hang over their time together. You have to decide whether their optimism is brave or immeasurably foolish. Trespasses is a drama about what the individual should, or at least should try, to do in the face of hopelessness. Cullen gives Michael an undeniable charisma, while poison leaches off every line Anderson delivers as Gina. But the most memorable performance belongs to Petticrew. Already brilliant as a hardened young IRA operative in a previous Troubles drama, Disney+s Say Nothing, Petticrew shows you the immense strain and genuine pleasure of escaping, however briefly, a community bent on tearing itself apart. Trespasses airs at 9.20pm on Wednesdays, and is available to stream on SBS On Demand. Find out the next TV, streaming series and movies to add to your must-sees. Get The Watchlist delivered every Thursday. Advertisement LifestyleLife & relationshipsAI Opinion My daughter didnt have a class photo. The reason stupefied me Marie El Daghl Communications specialist February 9, 2026 7:30pm February 9, 2026 7:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The anticipation of seeing whether the hairspray held on school photo day was high. My kids got my curly hair, you see. And on a 32-degree day, and PE in the mix, you gotta damage the ozone to guarantee a photo worth paying $58 for. Finally, I get to first position in the car line. The boot opens, the bags get thrown in with no regard for my laptop, Woolies bags full of dinner hopefuls or the picnic blanket that has never seen a picnic. The seatbelt click is my cue to commence the Q&A but on a typical day there are more Qs than As. Getting your picture taken with classmates is a rite of passage. Marija Ercegovac How were the school photos? Did you stand in the back again? I ask proudly, already knowing the answer. I was a front-rower my entire tiny life. Having kids stand at the back probably means more to me than it should. We didnt have a class photo. Advertisement Really? Why not? I ask, surprised I got an answer and shocked by the surprising answer. Someone must have thrown up or maybe the teacher lost it because the kids were being difficult. Either way theres gossip, and Im here for it. Theyre going to use AI to make it. Stupefied. Evidently, the photographer took individual photos of each student in standing and seated positions and will string them together using AI to create a group one. Individual photos stitched together to create a moment that never happened, rather than capture one that did. When I ordered the photos, I was expecting a captured memory. Not a fabricated one. Advertisement The class photo is a rite of passage. The boredom of waiting in line, calculating whether outgrowing your uniform could mean youve moved back a row. Hiding gum. Tapping your classmates shoulder and holding back tears of laughter as they look around, annoyed. Related Article Education Trouble getting your kids to school? So do many Australians And then remembering all of that whenever you see the photo at your parents place and wonder why no one told you to pull your socks up. These collective moments are what make school life so memorable. Sure, theyre mundane. But mundane maketh the memories. The idea that the 2026 class photo would show them together when they never actually were bothers me. Why couldnt a group photo just be taken? They were together already; their parents went to a lot of trouble to put every hair in place, tie perfect ribbons, run late to work. If AI was going to be used, why not go all in and save parents that hassle? We could have sent in our favourite photo of our child and the photographer could have used AI to put them in uniform then strung those together. Advertisement Weve just won a small victory in the new social media ban for kids. Now were showing them that its OK to fake a photo? In discussion, other parents pointed out much bigger concerns. Where were these images being stored? Which AI tool were they being fed into? Would their likeness turn up somewhere unexpected? My rising anger was interrupted by an Instagram notification of a like on a photo of my children. Which got me thinking whats the point of even getting angry when I have no idea where Meta stores the hundreds of photos I once so thoughtlessly shared of my kids. Just like my after-school car rides, I have more Qs than As. But what I do know is that on the great list of challenges that could do with AI brain power to solve, a class photo just aint one of them. Marie El Daghl is a communications specialist with Chasing Albert and a mother of two. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter. Advertisement Exclusive NationalNSWCourts Bankrupt Sydney businessman named in Hong Kong bribery case Kate McClymont February 9, 2026 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Bankrupt Sydney property developer Sam Fayad has been revealed to be the Australian businessman embroiled in a Hong Kong bribery case. Hong Kongs Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) issued a press release in November 2024 saying that two Chinese real estate executives had been criminally charged over corrupt dealings with an unnamed Australian businessman. Sam Fayad with his wife Maria, who is the sister of Dyldam founder Joe Khattar. Facebook It was recently revealed in the NSW Supreme Court that the Australian businessman referred to in the press release is Mr Sam Fayad. With personal debts of more than $2.8 billion, Fayad, 66, holds the unfortunate record of what is believed to be the largest personal bankruptcy in Australian history. Advertisement Fayad, who was bankrupted in 2023, had given personal guarantees for massive business loans needed to prop up his failing development empire, Dyldam. Once one of the largest developers of residential apartment blocks, the Dyldam group collapsed on New Years Eve in 2020 with huge debts, including to the Australian Tax Office. The downfall of the Dyldam group, which had 300 associated companies, has been an ongoing nightmare for the many liquidators appointed to the various companies. The liquidators have complained about the lack of books and records, the complexity of the movement of money throughout the various companies and the failure of Fayad and his two sons, both now bankrupted, to co-operate with the liquidators. Brothers Remon Fayad (left) and Fayad- Lee Fayad. Twitter A decade ago, a Herald investigation revealed a pattern of poor corporate behaviour on behalf of Dyldam, which was run by Fayad, his sons Remon and Fayad-Lee, along with their uncle, Joe Khattar, also since bankrupted. Advertisement Upon completion of a development, having paid Dyldam handsomely for construction services, several apartments were transferred to their family and friends and, shortly thereafter, the company set up for that particular development project would collapse, leaving substantial debts to tradies, suppliers, financiers and the ATO, which would be owed millions of dollars. Related Article Exclusive Courts Bankrupt brothers, billions in debt and the wife who bought the familys assets Only months before the companies were put into receivership, the Dyldam folk would quit as directors, appointing a shadow director to take the fall. In one case, they appointed an allegedly fictitious woman as the director of several companies. When the Herald went to the address listed on the corporate records, no such person had ever resided there. The Fayads and Khattar would then set up new companies to do fresh developments and the pattern would continue. To date, the only corporate punishment for Sam Fayad has been a $6000 fine in 2023 following his prosecution by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for failing to assist a liquidator and not providing books and records. Advertisement Fayads involvement in the overseas criminal case was revealed in a recent Supreme Court decision to put on hold two civil cases in Australia until the criminal proceedings in Hong Kong are completed. Facing charges are Wang David Ng, 46, and his mother, Shang-Min Han, 75. Ng was the second-in-charge of Beijing Capital Land (BCL), a major Chinese development company, previously listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange. It is currently controlled by the Beijing municipal government. Ng was also running BCLs Australian operation. BCL lent more than $600 million to the Dyldam group. The Supreme Court heard that the Hong Kong prosecutors are alleging that Mr Ng and Madam Han conspired together with Sam Fayad. The corruption bodys 2024 press release, tendered in the Supreme Court, alleged that Ng invested AUS$6 million in the investment opportunity offered to him [by Fayad] and received a repayment of about AUS$8.9 million, making a profit of about AUS$2.9 million out of the investment. Advertisement According to the press release, his mother allegedly participated in the corrupt dealings. Mother and son are facing charges which carry maximum penalties of a fine of $HK500,000 ($91,000) and seven years jail. Related Article Exclusive Tax avoidance Sydneys Fayad family, a $3b trail of debt and their new plan to avoid creditors The two civil actions brought against Ng and his mother were launched last year by BCLs local subsidiary, Australian Capital Land. The second action against Ng was brought by David Mansfield, the liquidator of Fayads company Gateway Parramatta One, which borrowed funds from BCL. In his decision to put the civil cases on hold until the overseas criminal matters were finished, Justice Francois Kunc said the local matters involve overlapping claims that will be ventilated against Ng and Han in Hong Kong. Both proceedings arise from the alleged misappropriations in Australia by the defendants of funds advanced from China, the judge said. Advertisement The Supreme Court heard that it is alleged that, over a six-year period from 2014, Ng diverted $40 million in funds that were meant to go to the Dyldam Group. His mother is accused of receiving $7.5 million in December 2017. When weighing the interests of justice, the Court is satisfied that there would be real prejudice to David and Madam Han if these proceedings are not stayed, said the judge. The Hong Kong criminal matter will return to court on February 23, with a trial expected early next year. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement Exclusive NationalQueenslandQueensland councils Developer offers to buy supermarket site from councils trouble-plagued investment arm Julius Dennis and Matt Dennien February 10, 2026 6:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The developer behind a scrapped $250 million shopping centre and multi-storey car park has offered to buy back the project from a trouble-plagued council investment arm, as a cloud hangs over the future make-up of the companys board. This masthead last week reported that the centres developer, Don ORorke, had voiced concerns over the projects cancellation, suggesting the move would benefit a local firm with familial links to a Redland City Council executive. The Redland Bay marina site, part of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area, would have serviced residents of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands who currently park their cars in overcrowded lots when they access the mainland by ferry. Redlands Investment Corporation reports to the council. Redland City Council Redland City Council voted to scuttle the development, which was contracted to ORorkes Consolidated Properties Group (CPG), and turn to the state government to build a standalone car park in December last year. Advertisement CPG had been contracted for nearly two years by the council-owned Redlands Investment Corporation (RIC), and ORorke said the project had been running on time and on budget, with work set to begin this year. On Monday, ORorke revealed he had offered to buy the land from RIC and complete the Coles-anchored centre and car park with Hutchinson Builders as previously planned. Don ORorke wants to complete the project. Paul Harris Meanwhile, there were questions over whether the three board members of RIC which had recommended the project continue to councillors as recently as two days before the vote to cancel it would continue in their roles after the companys annual general meeting in March. A source with insight into the situation who spoke to this masthead on condition of anonymity said at least one of the three would quit. Others speculated it would be all three. Advertisement A RIC spokesperson said the AGMs agenda had not been set, but did not deny that any board members would be moving on. Phil Hennessy. The Mater Foundation The board is made up of the chair, former KPMG Queensland chairman Phil Hennessy, and directors Mitch Nielsen and Greg Kempton. Hennessy and Kempton have both attended all meetings of the RIC board, and all five of the meetings for the companys subsidiary RIC Toondah in charge of the stalled Toondah Harbour development while Nielsen attended four of each. This masthead attempted to get in touch with all three on Monday, but did not hear back from any. Advertisement RIC has five ongoing projects in the Redlands, including Weinam Creek, and controls $24.2 million in assets. It has been through a period of upheaval, with two CEOs walking away in just over a year. Related Article Exclusive Queensland councils A council dumped plans for a new supermarket. Its developer questions why In his criticism of the Weinam Creek decision, ORorke suggested the change could benefit the owners of a nearby shopping centre who have family links to the councils CEO Louise Rusan. Redlands Council resolved not to extend the mandate thereby cancelling 200 local jobs, and [the decision also] follows a previous move to also oppose a local Aldi, he said. This now leaves only Woolworths in the area with no retail competition, just as the owners of the Woolworths-anchored shopping centre, Fox and Bell, have put the $70 million centre up for sale. Advertisement In response to questions a last week, Fox and Bell principal Garry Hargrave would not confirm whether the existing centre was being sold. Related Article South-east Queensland Regrettable: Bleijie scolds Redlands over scrapped shopping hub The council voted to change its plans for the site on December 10 last year, after local councillor Shane Rendalls moved an urgent motion. In a post on his website, Rendalls said the motion followed a meeting between councillors, council staff, local state MPs, and representatives from Economic Development Queensland (EDQ), who are responsible for PDAs statewide. EDQ presented a proposal and timeframe for progressing the multi-storey carpark at Weinam Creek, he wrote, adding that RIC presented their latest proposal to councillors the following week. Advertisement The motion, passed 7-3, called for Rusan to negotiate with the state to build the car park, and for RIC to tell CPG the deal was off. ORorke told this masthead his firm had been given a mandate by the council to deliver the centre and were ready and willing to do that immediately. We are urging the council to let us get on and build the Coles facility, which they have promised the community thus ending Woolworths monopoly position in the marketplace and offering real diversity. CPGs $5.75 million offer to RIC would also include at least 200 public car parks remaining available for public use during construction, a detail not in the previous deal. The firms offer, obtained by this masthead, is being made under the memorandum of understanding that the councils December decision was said to have let lapse. Advertisement After listening to the state, the updated development would also include a residential element. The firm said it remained willing to deliver the public car park. Given recent events CPG is concerned with a number of governance issues at the Redlands City Council, the letter sent to RIC, councillors and state government representatives said. Given this, we feel it is appropriate to make public our offer to purchase, providing full transparency to all levels of government and the community in Redlands. In a letter to Redlands mayor Jos Mitchell late last month, deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie said the councils decision to change tack was regrettable. Bleijie said the delivery of the car park was an election promise, and the government would now need to acquire the land for the car park as a priority. Advertisement I remain confident that EDQ and council will work together with urgency to reach an agreement to secure this outcome, he wrote. However, should it not be possible to reach such an agreement quickly, the state will consider utilising other mechanisms, like its compulsory acquisition powers. Asked about the scrapped deal, a spokesperson from the deputy premiers office said the government was progressing with the car park, and any other decisions were a council matter. A council spokesperson said Rusans conflict of interest was registered with the council and was managed under appropriate governance processes. Get alerts on significant breaking news as happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert. Advertisement NationalQueenslandDrug reform Pick between driving or treating yourself: Calls for change to zero-tolerance laws Courtney Kruk February 10, 2026 6:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Medicinal cannabis users would not automatically lose their drivers licence for returning a positive roadside drug test if a proposal before Queensland parliament is successful. Critics of current drug driving laws say they unfairly penalise users, many suffering chronic health conditions, and are calling for legislation that allows patients who are not driving impaired to provide a medical defence. Their campaign came as the Crisafulli government refused to say whether it would release the findings of a review into Queenslands drug-driving program, commissioned by the former Labor government in 2022. Medicinal cannabis has been legalised in Australia since 2016. Getty One person who lost their licence after a roadside drug test under the existing laws is Dayne Howard, 25, who has used medicinal cannabis to treat his chronic back pain for nearly seven years. Advertisement I explained that Im a medicinal cannabis patient, so its definitely going to come back positive [for THC], but I wasnt under the influence, Howard says. Before taking medicinal cannabis, Howard used oxycodone, a highly addictive opioid medicine. He prefers cannabis, but is frustrated by current zero-tolerance drug-driving laws. Caboolture resident Dayne Howard, a medicinal cannabis user, recently lost his drivers license after testing positive to THC in a roadside drug test. I was told by both the judge and the cops youve got to pick between driving or treating yourself, he says. But its not something that impairs me, and thats the problem. Were talking about impairment versus treatment. Advertisement In Queensland, it is an offence for a person to drive with any detectable substance in their system, including THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis. Related Investigation Legal Cannabis Cannabis Inc: Australias booming medicinal weed industry Saliva drug tests can detect THC for up to 12 hours in infrequent users, and days or months for regular users. Medicinal cannabis has been legalised in Australia since 2016, and is prescribed for health conditions including insomnia, muscular spasms, chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting, epilepsy, anxiety and chronic pain. Legalise Cannabis Queensland co-founder Suzette Luyken is behind a petition before state parliament that calls for laws to allow a medical defence for patients prescribed cannabis who test positive to THC. Advertisement This is not about encouraging unsafe driving, she says. [Its] about fairness, evidence-based law and treating patients with dignity. We should be testing for impairment, not punishing people for following their doctors advice. Nerang-based farmer and medicinal cannabis user Jenelle Porter (left) and Legalise Cannabis Queensland co-founder Suzette Luyken (right). Courtney Kruk For Luyken, who lives with chronic and often agonising pain, the issue is deeply personal. For years I was prescribed a combination of pharmaceuticals including fentanyl patches, Lyrica, Endep, Sifrol and Concerta for ADHD. Under the law, I was legally allowed to drive while taking all of these medications now I have to run the gauntlet every time I have to drive somewhere. Advertisement Nerang-based farmer Jenelle Porter, a medicinal cannabis user since being diagnosed with cervical cancer and member of Legalise Cannabis Queensland, is a supporter of Luykens campaign. Related Article Legal Cannabis Victoria may end automatic licence loss for drivers testing positive for cannabis There will always be someone who has too many beers or too many cones and then gets in the car and drives. But for the average person who is medically assisted for a real reason theyre not going to be driving impaired. University of Queensland emeritus professor Wayne Hall studies the health and medical effects of cannabis, and says while it is much less impairing than alcohol, a prescription should not be used as a get out of jail card. Advertisement [It should] provide a potential defence, not an automatic defence. Victorias precedent for reform Victoria amended road safety laws last year to allow a medical defence for prescribed cannabis users, provided they are not impaired at the time of testing. Tasmania has also adopted similar laws. The Victorian reforms were considered an interim solution while the government awaited the findings of a Swinburne University study on cannabis and driver impairment, due in mid-2026. Advertisement A previous Swinburne study found medical cannabis has a negligible impact on driving performance when used as prescribed. Similar results have been found at the University of the Sunshine Coast, where researchers concluded orally ingested THC products did not acutely affect hazard perception, and that drivers compensated for cannabis use by reducing speeding and increasing their distance from other road users. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne announcing the Swinburne cannabis and driving trial in 2024. Joe Armao The issue has been the focus of a review by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, commissioned by the former Queensland Labor government in 2022. Publicly available submissions to the review, including from the RACQ, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) and Harm Reduction Australia, note the challenges current zero-tolerance laws present to medicinal cannabis patients. Advertisement They recommended reforms such as those implemented in Tasmania and Victoria could be considered while further research is under way. A spokesperson for Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Queensland government had received the review and was following due process. They did not answer further questions, including whether it would be made public. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/ The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) helped eliminate the consequences of the Russian UAV attack in Odesa. "The Ukrainian Red Cross Rapid response teams in Odesa region, together with rescuers, provided assistance at the scene of the liquidation of the consequences of another attack on Odessa," the URCS said on Facebook on Monday. Volunteers provided first aid to five victims, and five more received first psychological aid. As reported, on Monday night, Russian troops attacked Odesa with strike drones. A 35-year-old man died as a result of the shelling. Two people were injured, including a 19-year-old girl. Damage to civilian infrastructure was recorded in Prymorsk district. Advertisement NationalWAPolice Another horror head-on crash throws spotlight on northern stretch of Mitchell Freeway Hamish Hastie February 9, 2026 7:51pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The section of Mitchell Freeway in Butler where two people died in a crash after a ute travelled the wrong way on Sunday night is near where a beloved Perth grandfather died in a similar crash in October. An Izuzu ute was travelling southbound in the northbound lanes near Lukin Drive in Butler about 11.25pm on Sunday when it crashed into a Toyota Yaris hatchback and MG MG4 hatchback. Two people have died after a head-on crash involving three cars on the Mitchell Freeway in Perths north. Night News The 56-year-old female driver of the Yaris died at the scene, while the 24-year-old man driving the Izuzu was taken to Joondalup Health Campus, where he later died. The two occupants of the MG received non-life-threatening injuries. Major crash officers are investigating the incident. Advertisement The crash is the second deadly incident to take place on the far northern reaches of the Mitchell Freeway in five months. Related Article Tragedy Main Roads to investigate horrific intersection near where Perth grandfather died In October, Johnny Grays distinctive pink 1956 Chevrolet collided with another car on the Mitchell Freeway near the Butler Boulevard exit, which is less than two kilometres from the Lukin Drive exit. Gray was driving the wrong way down the freeway at the time. After that crash, nearby residents raised concerns about the confusing road layout at Romeo Road, which is the final exit and first entry to the Mitchell Freeway in the north. Advertisement James King was one of the first on scene at the crash that claimed Grays and told 9News Perth at the time that the Romeo Road intersection could be confusing. I go down Romeo Road a fair bit I think having the entry and the exit so far apart, Im not sure if that plays a part in it, he said. Obviously, that late at night, there wouldnt be many cars around. Youd just be an autopilot, Im guessing, and I could see how it happened. After Grays death, Police Minister Reece Whitby said Main Roads would investigate the cause of the crash alongside a police investigation. How he happened to be there, why it happened, is a subject of a police investigation, and Main Roads are obviously aware of the issue and will be doing their own investigation, Whitby said at the time. Advertisement [Main Roads] always want to have best practice and the safest roads possible, so if theres any lessons that are to be learned, theyll follow those up. Main Roads has been approached for comment following Sundays crash. Police are appealing for any witnesses to Sundays crash to contact Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1800 333 000. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement NationalWAInquest Inquest reveals WA prospector turned down life-saving treatment before disappearance Rebecca Peppiatt February 9, 2026 5:02pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A An inquest into the suspected death of a prospector who went missing in Western Australias Wheatbelt has revealed his private health battles, including that he turned down treatment for cancer on multiple occasions leading up to his disappearance. Barry John Podmore was 73 years old when he was last known to be alive on December 5, 2024. A photo of Barry Podmore circulated by police. WA Police The Victoria Park-born roof carpenter was an avid prospector and moved to Beacon, a small town in the north-east of the Wheatbelt region more than 300 kilometres from Perth, which allowed him to pursue his passion, the inquest was told. On the day he went missing, he sent a message to his daughter that read: Lauren dear Gal, Im going out for the day tomorrow. So if you want, you can call me on your way home today. Advertisement It ended with a beer cheers emoji, a peace sign, and a laughing face, Lauren later told the ABC. Related Article Exclusive Missing person WA Police launch fresh search for gold prospector missing in same region as German backpacker But Podmore was never seen or heard from again. Over the following days Lauren attempted to contact her father multiple times, the inquest was told, but his phone did not ring and messages went unanswered. Six days later he was reported missing to police after a search of his home found his vehicle was also gone. Advertisement Triangulation data from Telstra showed that Barrys phone had not been active since 7.57am on December 6. A two-day air search was conducted in the Karroun Hill area where Podmore told a friend he would be heading to, but there was no sign of the 73-year-old or his vehicle. Karroun Hill is the same remote corner of the Wheatbelt where German backpacker Carolina Wilga was found after spending 11 nights alone in the bush, and this masthead has previously revealed a search for Podmore was derailed as police focused their resources on the hunt for Wilga. Barry Podmore (inset) and his car. Police The inquest was told on Monday that, seven months later, and frustrated with the lack of answers, Podmores family engaged independent missing persons tracker Rick Heaton to search the same area. Advertisement Heaton, a former ADF member who is due to give evidence at the inquest, found Podmores vehicle in May 2025. It was located 100 metres off a bush track near Mount Jackson. Related Article Missing person When police got word a backpacker was missing in remote WA, they were already out there looking for someone else It was locked and inside were his mobile phone and an unused personal locator beacon. The vehicle had a punctured rear passenger side tyre. The spare wheel was present, but there were no signs of any efforts to change the defective wheel, the inquest heard. A second official two-day police search for Podmore was conducted at that time, but no trace of Podmore was found. Advertisement Following police scaling down the search, Heaton continued to search at the site for a further 19 days without success, the inquest was told. Heaton spent 70 days in the area searching for Podmore. Police then turned their investigations towards his health and discovered that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2013 and in 2016 was diagnosed with superficial bladder cancer. He also had a damaged heart from childhood rheumatic fever and a history of irregular heartbeats and second-degree heart block as recently as 2021. In 2020, tests revealed the cancer had progressed and, despite a very high cure rate, Podmore declined treatment. Advertisement In 2022, Podmore attended Royal Perth Hospital as he was passing blood in his urine. Tests revealed a likely progression of the prostate cancer, but he once again declined any future treatment, the inquest heard. Related Article Updated Emergency services Backpacker needs to gain 12kg back after ordeal in WA outback Family was aware that Barry had prostate cancer but state he was private about his health, the inquest was told. Background information obtained from a close friend of 30 years states that when he last saw Barry in early October 2024, he was in good spirits but thought he was physically ageing and saw a decline in his health. Heaton is expected to tell the coroner he believed Podmore became disoriented while trying to return to his vehicle, and inadvertently turned in the wrong direction, continuing on in search of shelter and shade, and ultimately perishing in remote bushland. Advertisement In a statement provided by Jacqueline she recalls on a previous occasion being worried when her father was a day late returning from a prospecting trip and when she eventually heard from him, he told her that he had walked too far from his car without enough water and became lost along the emu-proof fence, Senior Constable Craig Robertson told the coroner. He had become disorientated and walked past his car and not seen it parked in the bushes. Prospecting associates described Podmore as a competent bushman and the inquest was told his family believed he was dead as they are confident he would have contacted them had he still been alive. A witness from the missing persons team was the first to give evidence on Monday. Advertisement PoliticsQueenslandIsraeli-Palestinian conflict Huge rally shouts the six-word chant Queensland plans to ban Courtney Kruk and William Davis Updated February 10, 2026 2:47pm ,first published February 9, 2026 9:47pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A From the river to the sea chants echoed through Brisbanes CBD on Monday evening, just a day after the Queensland government promised to outlaw the phrase in a bid to fight antisemitism. Well over 1000 protesters descended on King George Square outside City Hall to show their opposition to Israeli president Isaac Herzogs Australian visit, but the LNPs laws were front and centre at the Queensland rally. We will not stop communicating the message of justice and peace upon which this movement is built, organiser Remah Naji told the crowd that gathered from 5pm. Brisbane protesters were furious at the LNP governments plan to ban the phrase from the river to the sea, with the phrase written on banners and chanted through the CBD. William Davis The Queensland government will introduce legislation this week criminalising public use of the phrases from the river to the sea and globalise the intifada, making it the first Australian state or territory to take such action. Advertisement The laws would also toughen penalties on the use of symbols such as swastikas, Nazi emblems, the Hamas and Islamic State flags, and the Hezbollah emblem. But the decision to ban the chants is more controversial, as they are widely used at frequent pro-Palestine rallies. Naji argued on Monday night that the phrase called for equality for all people, while speaker Malaak Seleem said the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea should be a free and just land for its rightful people. Organiser Remah Naji told the crowd she believed the phrase was a call for equality for all people. William Davis The Greens sole Queensland MP Michael Berkman said the chants meaning was being distorted. Whatever you do, dont let anyone tell us what our own words mean. Dont let them change the meaning of such basic phrases, he told the crowd. Advertisement Where the f--- is free speech Pauline [Hanson] through all of this? Naji revealed she was planning a possible court challenge against the legislation. Well over 1,000 protesters descended on King George Square outside City Hall on Monday, as Israeli president Isaac Herzog met dignitaries in Sydney. William Davis What the LNP and Jewish leaders said Announcing the new laws on Sunday, Attorney-general Deb Frecklington said from the river to the sea was horrific, offensive, and there to incite hate. Advertisement [It means] to get rid of all Jews in between, Frecklington said. I dont even like to say it out loud. Premier David Crisafulli did not provide his definition or interpretation of the slogan but said there is no way its about liberation its about eradication. Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg with Premier David Crisafulli at the Queensland Holocaust Museum on Sunday. Courtney Kruk Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg, who was at the governments press conference, said the phrase called for the slaughter [of] Jews and denied it was used to fight for Palestinian freedom and human rights. From the river to the sea is from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea, there will be no Jews. That is the Hamas battle cry, no Jews, Steinberg said. Advertisement Israel is the land of the Jewish people, the ancestral homeland of the Jews. Related Article Updated Israeli-Palestinian conflict Police defend actions after violent clashes with Herzog protesters in Sydney Chants meaning debated in NSW Following the terror attack on Bondis Jewish community in December, a NSW parliamentary committee also considered laws to ban the from the river to the sea slogan. Several organisations, including the Australian Jewish Association, the Australasian Union of Jewish Students and the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy, supported a crackdown, with the latter saying it effectively calls for the ethnic cleansing of Jews at a minimum, and their genocide at maximum. Advertisement Other groups did not accept such definitions, with the Muslim Legal Network NSW arguing it was widely used in the context of peaceful protest, and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network saying scrutiny of the words places Palestinian identity and solidarity under special surveillance. Related Article Updated Antisemitism Pro-Palestine chants, hate symbols set to be banned in Queensland A submission by academic Dr Finola Laughren quotes a Canadian court ruling that says the phrase has been used by both Israeli and Palestinian politicians on the far ends of their respective political spectrums to claim the land from the river to the sea as belonging exclusively to either Jews or Palestinians and by more moderate camps as reflecting a desire for a political solution that would allow both groups to live in freedom in either one or two states. In her submission, Laughren said there was no evidence that the slogans had been used in themselves as an endorsement or expression of sympathy [for] any terrorist organisation or extremist group. The committee ultimately accepted that the meaning of the phrase was contested, and did not recommend a ban. Advertisement What did protesters say? Shane said he chose to protest on Monday night against the Albanese government for inviting president Herzog to Australia. Courtney Kruk Protesters on Monday night were furious at the LNP proposal. It means, the Palestinians, their land was from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean and they had their land stolen by the United Nations, gave it to the Israelis for their homeland, Shane said. The Israelis have behaved like Nazis really towards the Palestinian people who are the Indigenous people of that land. Advertisement Dane and Zandy travelled from the Gold Coast for the Palestine rally, saying the federal governments decision to invite the Israeli president was grotesque. Courtney Kruk Dane said the phrase to him was a simple call for freedom. Were calling for the freedom of Palestinian people and for their right to dignity and self-determination, he said. Rashan Ahmed, meanwhile, expressed concern the government was twisting the words meaning. Theyre trying to frame it like its some sort of antisemitic phrase but its not, he said. Its literally just telling them that they cant kill innocent children or families and invade. Advertisement Our government wants to stop us from saying from the river to the sea, such a, a harmless gesture which is meant to demonstrate freedom from the oppression that Israel has put on Palestine for many years, Mak said, pictured here with Jamie. Courtney Kruk What comes next The Crisafulli government said it consulted the Jewish community, the Queensland Police Service, the Crime and Corruption Committee and the Queensland Human Rights Commission about the proposed laws. Loading Muslim and Palestinian groups were not consulted. Advertisement The legislation is expected to be introduced this week, when parliament returns for the first sitting week of the year. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. CORRECTION An earlier version of this story incorrectly attributed a quote from an Ontario Supreme Court ruling to Dr Finola Laughren. The quote was drawn from the ruling in her submission to the NSW inquiry. Advertisement WorldEuropeUK politics Ministers back Starmer after rebels call for leader to quit over Mandelson David Crowe February 10, 2026 4:52am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is fighting a Labour rebellion over his leadership after the head of the partys Scottish wing called on him to stand down, sharply escalating the pressure for a new leader and ministry. Cabinet ministers rallied behind Starmer in a bid to halt the challenge before it could gain momentum, while the prime ministers closest allies insisted he had a mandate from voters and would stay in office. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under sharply escalating political pressure. Getty Images The leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, took the internal war into the public domain on Tuesday by holding a press conference to declare that he had to be honest about failure and call for Starmer to resign. The leadership manoeuvres come barely 19 months after Labour swept into power and heighten the crisis within the governing party, as Labour MPs complain in public about their poor polling and lack of direction. Advertisement Two resignations have also shaken confidence in the prime ministers office, with Starmers communications chief, Tim Allan, quitting on Tuesday, a day after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney stepped down. Sarwar, a centrist like Starmer, is lagging in the opinion polls ahead of an election for the Scottish parliament in May, and he said he spoke out to prevent the Scottish National Party defeating Labour at the polls. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar speaks to the media during a press conference in Glasgow, Scotland, where he called on Keir Starmer to resign as prime minister. AP Thats why I have to be honest about failure wherever I see it. The situation in Downing Street is not good enough. There have been too many mistakes. They promised they were going to be different, but too much has happened. Advertisement Have there been good things? Of course, there have many of them, but no one knows them, and no one can hear them because theyre being drowned out. Thats why they cannot continue. The leader of the Labour Party in Wales, Eluned Morgan, remained silent on the leadership question on Tuesday (London time). She is also contesting a parliamentary election in May and faces an uphill battle against Welsh governing party Plaid Cymru. Britains now former ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson, left, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. AP While Sarwar did not name the scandal over Jeffrey Epstein as a factor in his decision, the pressure on Starmer has intensified in part because of questions over his judgement in appointing Peter Mandelson, a close associate of the sex offender, as the UK ambassador to the US. Starmer last week apologised for that decision, five months after removing Mandelson from the post. He admitted that he knew of Mandelsons ties to Epstein but said Mandelson lied and pretended the pair were not close. Advertisement The prime ministers team at 10 Downing Street argued that he had won the general election in July 2024 and therefore held authority from the votes of the British public. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do, said a Downing Street spokesperson. Loading The UK has 21 cabinet ministers excluding Starmer, and a majority of them backed the prime minister with public endorsements while Sarwar was speaking or soon after he finished. The British public gave Keir a huge mandate only 18 months ago, said Defence Minister John Healey. Advertisement They wanted a Labour government. They want us to deliver the change we promised. They expect us to get on with the job... The PM has my fullest support in leading this government and this country. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: The PM has my full support. Lets get on with changing the country for the better. Related Article Epstein fallout Starmer should resign as well, MPs demand, as key aide quits Similar statements came from Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Justice Secretary David Lammy, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, Housing Secretary Steve Reed, Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, whose supporters have positioned him as a contender for the leadership, told a media podcast the prime minister should stay on, but his support did not appear to be emphatic. Advertisement Keir Starmer doesnt need to resign, he told the Electoral Dysfunction podcast. Streeting said the last week had not been the best for the government, but he added: Give Keir a chance. Another person often touted as a candidate to for the prime ministers job, former Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner, called publicly for an end to factional games. I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team. The Prime Minister has my full support in leading us to that end, she posted on X. The revolt ahead of the Scottish election highlights the concern about Labours slump in the polls across the UK and the rise of populist leader Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party, which would win a general election on current polling. Advertisement Even so, one of the key Scottish ministers in the national government, Douglas Alexander, who is secretary of state for Scotland, did not endorse Sarwars call. The prime minister has recognised not just that lessons have to be learnt but also that we change how we do government, he said. He is right about that and has my support. Hilary Benn, the secretary of state for Northern Ireland, urged MPs to stop the unrest. Now is the time for calm heads and seriousness of purpose, he said. That is why the prime minister has my full support. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Photo: https://www.facebook.com Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) Oleksandr Syrsky stated that in January, the total losses of the enemy significantly exceeded the volume of its replenishment almost 32,000 people against 9,000 "this trend must be continued and strengthened." "The Armed Forces of Ukraine stabilized the situation on the front, stopped the enemy, effectively destroyed its personnel and equipment. The total losses of the enemy in the first month of the year amounted to 31,700 people, which is 9,000 more than the volume of its replenishment for the same period. This trend must be continued and strengthened," he said in the Telegram channel on Monday following the results of the combat work of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in January 2026. According to him, "during a frank conversation, we analyzed the status of the implementation of combat and operational tasks, including repelling enemy air strikes, manning and supplying our troops, conducting engineering and fortification work, maintaining the state law and order in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, etc.," Syrsky provided statistical data on the results of January 2026. "In January, 48 fire missions were carried out by DeepStrike means to destroy the oil and gas industry of Russia. As a result, the total oil refining in Russia has decreased by 19%, or 53.4 million tons per year," he said. Air Forces: carried out 80 air strikes, strike UAVs of the Defense Forces of Ukraine carried out more than 300,000 special missions. As a result of the strikes on enemy airfields, the use of enemy-guided bombs decreased by 5%. Air defense work: despite the existing shortage of means of destruction, in January the air defense forces destroyed 21,700 air targets and 21,600 UAVs of various types of the enemy. "Despite four years of full-scale war against a superior enemy, the Ukrainian army is holding its ground and continues to reduce the number of the Russian aggressor group. I am sincerely grateful to our soldiers for their resilience, professionalism and dedication," Syrsky said. Hindu identity, not caste, determines RSS Sarsanghchalak selection: Dr Bhagwat MUMBAI : RASHTRIYA Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday asserted that caste is not a determining factor in the selection of the organisations Sarsanghchalak (chief or head), stating that being a Brahmin is not a prerequisite for the position, while emphasising that being a Hindu is the only qualification. Bhagwat made these remarks while addressing an event titled 100 Year of Sangh Journey - New Horizons in Mumbai. His statement comes amid allegations from the Congress-led INDIA bloc, which has accused the RSS of allowing only Brahmins to hold the top leadership position and raised questions about caste representation within the organisation. Responding to such claims, Dr Bhagwat rejected the allegations and clarified the organisations position regarding leadership selection, stating, Who will become the Sarsanghchalak of the organisation? So, no Brahmin can become the Sarsanghchalak of the organisation. No Kshatriya, Vaishya, or Shudra can become the Sarsanghchalak. Only a Hindu will become the Sarsanghchalak. The head of the organisation can be appointed to that post, and if theres something else, he can be appointed to that too. Explaining the organisational structure and functioning of the RSS, Bhagwat said the Sangh does not appoint its workers or leaders based on caste identity or proportional representation. Our workers are not appointed based on this (the caste system). Because we dont have such a proportional system. Whoever works will be the one. Initially, the Sangh was small. The work of the Sangh started in a single locality. It was a Brahmin locality. So, initially, all the office-bearers of the Sangh, from top to bottom, were Brahmins. Then people said that this is a Sangh of these people, he said. Bhagwat further elaborated that the organisations growth has been guided by geographical expansion rather than caste considerations. He said the nature of expansion has gradually diversified the Sanghs composition over time. We dont expand based on caste; we expand geographically. We have our own people, but the work of the Sangh has expanded. We dont expand based on caste but geographically. So, this is a natural thing that happens in the Sangh. Therefore, I cannot answer whether there will be an SC/ST tomorrow or not, because the person who has to do it will think about it, he said. Highlighting the criteria for leadership, Bhagwat stressed that competence and availability play a crucial role in selecting individuals for key organisational roles. He said that the decision is based on who is best suited and able to shoulder responsibilities at a given time. One should be the best and also available. I am the Sarsanghchalak. There are other better people, but they are not available. The one who could be made available was the only one. Thats why I was made the Sarsanghchalak. So, therefore, being an SC/ST is not a disqualification. Being a Brahmin is not a qualification, he added. Meanwhile, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday identified religious conversion, infiltration, and a low birth rate as the three main factors behind population imbalance, saying scientific research suggests we should have three children in a family, which, however, is a matter of choice. He condemned the use of force, inducement or deception to convert people and increase the number of a sect, noting that ghar wapasi was the answer for those wishing to return to their original faith. Responding to a query on infiltration, he said that RSS workers identified suspected infiltrators through language and reported them to authorities. On population imbalance, Bhagwat said, There were three major reasons; the first being religious conversion. While freedom of faith was guaranteed, using force, inducement or deception to convert people and increase the numbers of a sect was totally condemnable. The second reason was infiltration, for which the government needed to undertake extensive work, the RSS chief said. He said the third reason for population imbalance is low birth rate. Uniform Civil Code should be framed with consensus, shouldnt create divisions: Bhagwat: RASHTRIYA Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) should be framed by taking everyone into confidence and must not lead to divisions. Asked whether achche din (good days) for the RSS came after the BJP came to power, Bhagwat said it was the other way round, noting the Sangh had remained committed to the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya and those who supported it benefitted. On the long-pending demand for Bharat Ratna for Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar, Bhagwat said the awards prestige will rise if conferred on him. He was speaking during an interaction at a programme to mark the RSSs centenary. Several prominent personalities were present at the event, including actors Raveena Tandon, Vicky Kaushal, Ananya Panday, filmmakers Karan Johar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Ramesh Taurani and musician Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar. ICAI Nagpur Branch bags All India Best Branch Award Business Reporter : ICAI Nagpur Branch (WIRC) was recently selected for the All India Best Branch Award (Large Branch Category) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for the year 202526. The award was presented by Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of Law & Justice, Government of India, in the presence of ICAI President CA Charanjot Singh Nanda and Vice President CA Prasanna Kumar D. The award ceremony was held at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida during the ICAI annual function held alongside the World Forum of Accountants (WOFA 2.0). The event was attended by Chartered Accountants from across the country. During the year 202526, under the Chairmanship of CA Dinesh Rathi, the Nagpur Branch organised a wide range of professional programmes including seminars, conferences, workshops, training programmes, intensive study courses, certificate courses and interactive meetings. These programmes focused on practical exposure, professional development, emerging areas of practice and knowledge enhancement for members. India-AI Impact Summit to focus on 7 Chakras for real-world applications NEW DELHI : THE upcoming India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is being organised through seven Chakras or Working Groups, structured around seven interconnected thematic areas, and each Chakra focuses on a core area of AI impact, and translates the Sutras into concrete areas of action across policy and real-world applications, an official statement said on Sunday. Each Chakra fosters multilateral collaboration on AIs societal impacts, from building skills to ensuring ethical deployment. These are: Human Capital; Inclusion for Social Empowerment; Safe and Trusted AI, Science; Resilience Innovation and Efficiency; Democratizing AI Resources; and AI for Economic Development and Social Good. Through these Chakras, India aims to shape global AI norms while addressing local challenges. The outcomes of the Summit will guide policy makers, investors, and industry leaders in the years ahead, said the statement. Over 100 countries worldwide have engaged through these Working Groups to shape a future of responsible and inclusive AI. The India-AI Impact Summit 2026, from February 16-20, has attracted significant high-level engagement, with 1520 Heads of Government, over 50 international ministers, and more than 40 global and Indian CEOs expected to participate. The Summit is guided by three foundational pillars, referred to as Sutras, which articulate the core principles guiding global cooperation on AI: People, Planet and Progress. The IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026 strengthens Indias role as a key platform for shaping the global AI agenda. Anchored in the Seven Chakras and the Three Sutras of People, Planet, and Progress, the Summit advances a development-oriented framework for artificial intelligence. By linking policy with implementation and innovation with public purpose, the Summit establishes a structured approach to responsible AI deployment. It aligns technological advancement with inclusive growth and sustainable development, it added. The Summit positions India as a convenor and partner in global AI cooperation, supporting shared standards, collaborative frameworks, and scalable solutions for public good. It marks a transition from dialogue to delivery, reinforcing Indias commitment to responsible, inclusive, and development-focused AI pathways. Naxalism to end before March 31: Amit Shah Staff Reporter : Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Sunday chaired a security review meeting on Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in Raipur. The Home Minister also held a review meeting regarding various development works in Chhattisgarh. The meetings was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, Union Home Secretary, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Special Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh, Director Generals of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibet Border Police (ITBP) as well as Home Secretaries and Director Generals of Police (DGsP) of Chhattisgarh, Telengana, Jharkhand, Odisha and Maharashtra. Addressing the meeting, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the security-centric strategy of the Centre and Chhattisgarh government, along with infrastructure, strikes on the Naxal financial network, and the surrender policy, have yielded positive results. He expressed confidence that Naxalism will be completely eliminated before the upcoming 31 March. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Chhattisgarh was once a stronghold of Naxal violence, but in the double engine government being run under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it has now become a symbol of development. He said that the youth of Chhattisgarh are accelerating progress in sports, forensic science, and technical education while also preserving their culture and traditions. Amit Shah said that the double engine government is leaving no stone unturned to completely eradicate the menace of Naxalism from the country. He said that under the Modi government, Naxalism has reached the verge of its end and the country will become completely Naxal-free before 31 March 2026. The Home Minister said that the country will soon be freed from Naxalism, which has pushed many generations into the darkness of poverty and illiteracy. Shah said that the ongoing fight against Naxals must not be scattered. Stressing the need for smooth coordination between various states and central agencies, he said that the remaining Naxals must not be allowed to flee to other states. The Union Home Minister said that Chhattisgarh has made remarkable progress on both the security and development fronts. He said that it must be ensured that people in Naxal-affected areas receive equal opportunities for development. NHRC probes liquor shop next to Arera Colony Temple Staff Reporter : The issue of liquor shops operating near religious and residential areas once again came under sharp focus in Bhopal after National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo conducted an inspection of a wine shop located near Arya Samaj temple in Arera Colonys 10 No. (in the most buzzing part of the city) Market on Sunday. The inspection exposed serious violations of excise norms and triggered strong reactions from local residents, elected representatives and social activists. During the visit, Kanoongo interacted with devotees at the temple and local residents, who complained about the liquor shops proximity and its impact on public safety and religious dignity. He took strong exception to a written reply submitted by the district administration and the excise department, which claimed that the Arya Samaj temple was not registered. Reacting sharply, Kanoongo said, Today, I came here myself to see who these people are who are demanding proof of Gods existence. Faith and religious places cannot be insulted under any circumstances. To verify the situation on the ground, NHRC member personally measured the distance between the temple and the liquor shop using a measuring tape. As per the statement by complainant Tripathi, the measurement revealed that the shop was located less than 50 metres from the temple, clearly violating excise rules. Taking serious note of the lapse, Kanoongo reprimanded excise officials and directed that the liquor shop be shut down immediately for operating in violation of set norms. Local resident Vivek Tripathi, who has constantly been raising the issue since long time, informed the NHRC member that the liquor shop was being run illegally on a residential-use plot within a housing area. He further stated that following repeated complaints from residents, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation had issued a notice on November 19, 2025, directing the operator to stop all commercial activity within 10 days. Despite this, the shop continued to function openly. Residents also alleged that an illegal drinking spot (ahata) was being operated under a tarpaulin, encouraging public drinkingan offence under the law. Residents expressed concern over what they described as administrative indifference and possible collusion. Addressing these concerns, Kanoongo said that protecting the dignity of religious places, ensuring citizens safety and enforcing the law were the administrations responsibility. He added that action would also be taken against officials found guilty of negligence. The issue has also highlighted similar unresolved problems in other parts of the city. Councillor from Kotra Nehru Nagar Monu Saxena pointed to a long-pending dispute at Nehru Nagar Square, where a liquor shop continues to operate in a busy public area despite protests. He said presence of the shop and an illegal drinking spot (ahata) has made the locality unsafe, especially for women, girls and daily commuters. Saxena said he fought a legal battle for nine years but eventually withdrew after seeing no resolution, adding that while protests forced the shop to remain closed for three days, it could not be shifted permanently. The shop was earlier running in BMCs building and later shifted to a private building. Monu Saxena said liquor shops seriously endanger public safety and damage the local economy. He pointed out that families and regular customers stop visiting such areas, leaving only vendors who sell snacks, water and disposable glasses to alcohol consumers to survive. He demanded a fundamental overhaul of the excise policy, alleging that authorities often use registration status of temples and schools as an excuse to allow liquor shops to function in sensitive locations. He argued that liquor outlets should be shifted to designated commercial zones or malls, not residential streets. Also administrative and police control should be strengthened to maintain peace in such areas. Echoing similar concerns, Councillor of ward number 10, Shivaji Nagar, Guddu Chauhan said that as per norms, alcohol sales should not be permitted near any religious institution, whether a temple or a mosque. He demanded immediate relocation of such shops, warning that unchecked liquor outlets not only threaten public safety but also erode social harmony. Residents have now indicated that if prompt action is not taken, they may approach the court seeking accountability from both the contractor and the district administration, raising fresh questions about enforcement, governance and public interest in excise policy. For the first time, the von Kleist Prize of the Munich Security Conference will be awarded not to an individual, but to an entire nation the Ukrainian people, announced Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksiy Makeyev. "Now it's official: the Ewald von Kleist Prize has been awarded to the Ukrainian people," Makeyev wrote on the social network X on Monday. He also expressed gratitude to the Munich Security Conference and its head, Ambassador Wolfgang Ischinger, "for their clear position" and cited Ischinger's statements at a press conference in Berlin: "Russia, while pretending to be ready for negotiations, is simultaneously terrorizing the Ukrainian civilian population." The 62nd Munich Security Conference will be held in Munich from February 13 to February 15, 2026. It will be attended by approximately 200 high-ranking officials, including heads of state, from nearly 120 countries. Ewald von Kleist was the founder and defining figure of the Munich Security Conference. He chaired the influential forum for over 30 years and played a key role in advancing transatlantic security dialogue and bringing post-war Germany into NATO. Until his death in 2013, Kleist remained active in security affairs and a regular participant in the MSC. The Ewald von Kleist Prize, established before his death, recognizes individuals who have made a special contribution to "the cause of peace and conflict resolution." No compromise on terrorism: PM Modi in Malaysia KUALA LUMPUR : INDIA and Malaysia on Sunday vowed to expand their ties in the high-priority sectors of trade and investment, defence, energy, advanced manufacturing and semiconductors with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that both sides are committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Following his wide-ranging talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Modi reiterated Indias position on combating terrorism as he said: Our message on terrorism is clear; no double standards, no compromise. The two sides inked a total of 11 agreements and documents to expand cooperation in a range of key areas, including a framework pact for deeper engagement in the semiconductor sector. Both Modi, who arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, and Ibrahim appreciated efforts to promote the usage of local currencies -- the Indian Rupee and Malaysian Ringgit -- for trade settlement. We will pave the way for economic transformation through strategic trust, Modi said, describing the India-Malaysia relationship as special. We are maritime neighbours. For centuries, our peoples have had deep and cordial ties, he said in his media statement. Modi also announced Indias decision to establish an Indian Consulate General in Malaysia. In his remarks, Ibrahim noted Indias economic growth and said his country would benefit immensely if it could secure more ways and opportunities to collaborate with New Delhi. It (Indias economic growth) is one spectacular rise in the international eco and trade scene, he said, describing the decision to use local currencies for bilateral trade as remarkable. In the talks, Malaysia extended its support for Indias permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council. Elaborating on engagement in the security domain, Modi said cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security will be strengthened, adding that both sides will further expand defence ties. Along with AI and digital technologies, we will advance partnerships in semiconductors, health, and food security, he said, noting that the discussions at the CEO Forum opened new opportunities for trade and investment. The Prime Minister touched upon Indias position on Indo-Pacific and its steadfast views on the 10-nation grouping ASEANs centrality in the region. The Indo-Pacific region is emerging as the worlds growth engine. We, along with ASEAN, are committed to development, peace, and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region, he said. With the support of friendly countries like Malaysia, India will further expand its relations with ASEAN ( Association of Southeast Asian Nations). We agree that the review of the ASEAN-India Trade Agreement, ITIGA, should be completed expeditiously, he added. Modi said he and Ibrahim also had a meaningful discussion on regional and global issues. In this environment of global instability, the growing friendship between India and Malaysia is of vital importance to both countries. We share the view that reform of global institutions is essential to address todays challenges. We will continue to support all efforts for peace. And our message on terrorism is clear: No double standards; no compromise, he added. We appreciate your commitment to India-Malaysia relations. Let us together realise your dream of a prosperous Malaysia and our resolve for a developed India, he said. The two Prime Ministers also unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism and called for zero tolerance of terrorism, according to a joint statement. The two leaders also called for concerted global efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner and agreed to work towards countering radicalisation and violent extremism. They also resolved to work towards combating financing of terrorism, prevent use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes. The two leaders reaffirmed commitment to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation in countering terrorism, including in the UN and FATF(Financial Action Task Force), the statement said. Modi and A Ibrahim also agreed to strengthen cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the UN, and support reforms of international institutions. They pledged to work together to enhance multilateralism, reflective of contemporary realities so as to make international organisations, including the UN Security Council (UNSC), more representative, A the joint statement said. Reflecting the strong spirit of mutual support in multilateral forums, the two Leaders discussed mutual support for various international candidatures. India deeply appreciated Malaysias support for Indias permanent membership in a reformed UNSC, it said. ONE-MONTH ANNIVERSARY OF WOMANS DEATHMany protesters arrested in Minneapolis MINNEAPOLIS : POLICE arrested at least several demonstrators on Saturday outside a federal building in Minneapolis, breaking up a protest marking the one-month anniversary of a Minnesota womans death at the hands of an immigration officer. Renee Good was killed on January 7 as she was driving away from immigration officers in a Minneapolis neighbourhood. Her death and that of another Minneapolis resident,Alex Pretti, just weeks later have stoked outrage nationwide over President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. Scores of protesters gathered across the street from the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building around midday, throwing bottles and sex toys at a line of police guarding the property. The Minnesota Star Tribune reported that officers arrested a handful of protesters after the crowd starting throwing chunks of ice. A deputy was hit in the head, and a squad vehicles windshield was smashed, according to a statement the newspaper obtained from the Hennepin County Sheriffs Office. PM Modi meets INA veteran Rao in Malaysia PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) veteran Jeyaraj Raja Rao in Kuala Lumpur and conveyed the gratitude of all Indians for INAs extraordinary courage, legacy, and sacrifice. We remain forever indebted to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the brave women and men of the INA, whose valour helped shape Indias destiny, PM Modi said in a post on social media after the meeting. Modi said it was very special to meet INA veteran Rao. His life is marked by immense courage and sacrifice. Listening to his experiences was very inspiring, he said. Prime Minister Modi conveyed the gratitude of all Indians for INAs extraordinary courage, legacy, and sacrifice, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. In September 1943, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, in a rousing address to thousands of followers, inspired several youths to join the cause of Indian independence, from Selangor Padang (Dataran Merdeka or Independence Square) in Kuala Lumpur. US-Indo trade deal unequivocally in interest of farmers: Chouhan By Bhavana : As per the agreement, there is no agriculture produce in the list that will hurt farmers interest underlining exclusion of genetically modified -GM produce from the said list, the Union Agriculture Minister Shviraj Singh Chouhan ensures farmers interest first. Neither today nor in future the Government will go with the entry of such produce in the country. Seed with potential threat to Indian fertile soil or indigenous seed will never be allowed here. Interacting with the media in Bhopal on Sunday, Union Minister Chouhan reiterated the Central Governments claim that Indo-American trade deal will not impact countrys agriculture sector adversely. Interests of small and large farmers alike have been fully protected and that the agreement will create fresh opportunities rather than risks for Indian agriculture. Refusing all the apprehensions raised by the Opposition with seeds, Minister Chouhan stated it is the foresighted decision rather it will unequivocally in the interest of Indian farmers. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasised that farmers welfare is the Governments top priority. Staple grains, fruits, major crops, millets and dairy products remain completely secure and face no threat whatsoever. Highlighting the list of restricted seeds or produce, he mentioned meat, poultry, dairy, soybean, maize, rice, wheat, sugar, coarse grain, ethanol and tobacco and many other products are being kept aside in the deal. These products will not be imported from America. Additionally, in fruits category banana, strawberry, cherry, citrus fruits, green pea, moong, pulses, wheat, potato, onion, beans, cucumber, frozen vegetables, orange, grapes, lemon and mix packed vegetables etc will not be imported. Dairy products have also been included in the list of banned items for instance liquid, condensed and powder milk, cream, yogurt, butter milk, ghee, butter oil, paneer etc. This decision will benefit our people depends on milk and its product for their livelihood. He said reduced tariffs will directly benefit cotton-growing farmers, rice, spices and as textile export will increase. The Minister affirmed that the deal is and opens up new export avenues, despite the misinformation being spread by the Opposition. There are restrictions on spice imports as well. He said that black pepper, cloves, dried green chilies, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, asafoetida, ginger, turmeric, carom seeds, fenugreek, mustard, and other powdered spices will also not be imported into India under this agreement. The Union Agriculture Minister reiterated that India-US trade deal is completely farmer-friendly and will not have any adverse impact on Indian agriculture, food security or livelihoods of farming families. The Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets said the level of human rights observance during mobilization events differs significantly in different regions of Ukraine. "Among the regions with the best indicators, Khmelnytsky region can be noted," he said during the meeting on Monday. Lubinets expressed the idea of exchange of practices between employees of the Territorial recruitment and social support centers in different regions of Ukraine to apply legal methods of work. According to him, one of the regions with the worst level of human rights observance during mobilization is Kharkiv. "There are cases when a lawyer was not only not allowed into the territory of Kharkiv region, but also caused him bodily harm the lawyer's leg was broken," Lubinets said. The ombudsman said the situation in the regions may change. "There was a period when, in a negative context, Ternopil region came out on top. After the inspection, it turned out that a pilot was allegedly launched there, which allowed the relevant military units to independently conduct mobilization measures," he said. Lubinets said these data do not reflect the full picture across the country, as they are based solely on the number of citizens' appeals. In general, according to him, the number of appeals about alleged violations during mobilization measures increased from 18 in 2022 to 6,127 in 2025. Lubinets also reported that last year, 34 pieces of information were entered into the Unified Register of Pretrial Investigations regarding the actions of officials of the Territorial recruitment and social support centers, which have signs of criminal offenses. AAR Corp. (NYSE:AIR Get Free Report) has earned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the seven brokerages that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, four have assigned a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month target price among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $110.80. A number of analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Truist Financial set a $107.00 price target on AAR in a research note on Friday, January 9th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of AAR in a report on Monday, December 29th. KeyCorp lifted their target price on shares of AAR from $93.00 to $109.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 14th. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on shares of AAR in a research report on Monday, January 26th. They issued a neutral rating and a $121.00 target price for the company. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group set a $112.00 price target on shares of AAR and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 15th. Get AAR alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on AAR AAR Stock Up 6.0% AIR stock opened at $113.26 on Wednesday. AAR has a 52 week low of $46.51 and a 52 week high of $113.65. The company has a quick ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 2.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $93.02 and a 200-day simple moving average of $84.09. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.48 billion, a P/E ratio of 44.42 and a beta of 1.23. AAR (NYSE:AIR Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 6th. The aerospace company reported $1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.02 by $0.16. AAR had a net margin of 3.17% and a return on equity of 12.40%. The firm had revenue of $795.30 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $760.95 million. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.90 EPS. AARs quarterly revenue was up 15.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that AAR will post 3.77 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, CFO Sarah Louise Flanagan sold 10,750 shares of AAR stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $108.56, for a total transaction of $1,167,020.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 32,848 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,565,978.88. This trade represents a 24.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CAO Jessica A. Garascia sold 4,787 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.25, for a total value of $455,961.75. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 29,557 shares in the company, valued at $2,815,304.25. This trade represents a 13.94% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 128,984 shares of company stock valued at $12,517,090. 3.60% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of AIR. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its holdings in shares of AAR by 144.3% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,486,775 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $133,319,000 after purchasing an additional 878,188 shares during the period. UBS Group AG raised its stake in AAR by 709.2% during the third quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 488,239 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $43,780,000 after purchasing an additional 427,906 shares during the period. Franklin Resources Inc. boosted its holdings in AAR by 36.9% in the 3rd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 1,154,167 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $107,752,000 after purchasing an additional 311,258 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of AAR by 7.5% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 4,061,230 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $336,229,000 after buying an additional 281,871 shares during the period. Finally, State Street Corp grew its stake in shares of AAR by 10.9% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,917,821 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $131,927,000 after buying an additional 188,406 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 90.74% of the companys stock. AAR Company Profile (Get Free Report) AAR Corp. (NYSE: AIR) is a global provider of aviation products and services to commercial, government and defense customers. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) solutions, component repair and overhaul, and engineering services designed to support a wide variety of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Leveraging FAA and EASA certifications, AAR delivers turnkey maintenance programs and ad hoc repair services that enhance aircraft availability and reliability. In its Aviation Supply Chain Services segment, AAR sources, stores and distributes parts for both commercial airlines and military operators. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for AAR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AAR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Ameren Corporation (NYSE:AEE Get Free Report) have been given a consensus rating of Hold by the thirteen brokerages that are covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month price target among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $109.60. Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Morgan Stanley reissued an underperform rating and issued a $108.00 target price on shares of Ameren in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on Ameren from $112.00 to $111.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, January 20th. Barclays dropped their target price on Ameren from $111.00 to $104.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. KeyCorp downgraded shares of Ameren from an overweight rating to a sector weight rating in a report on Friday, December 12th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Ameren from $108.00 to $111.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. Get Ameren alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on AEE Insider Transactions at Ameren Institutional Trading of Ameren In other Ameren news, insider Michael L. Moehn sold 6,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $103.60, for a total value of $673,400.00. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 193,076 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,002,673.60. This represents a 3.26% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link . 0.42% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its holdings in Ameren by 70.9% in the second quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 258 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 107 shares during the period. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd increased its holdings in shares of Ameren by 285.5% during the 3rd quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 266 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 197 shares in the last quarter. Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Ameren in the 3rd quarter valued at $29,000. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Ameren by 6,040.0% during the second quarter. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. now owns 307 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $29,000 after buying an additional 302 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Addison Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Ameren by 728.9% during the second quarter. Addison Advisors LLC now owns 315 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 277 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.09% of the companys stock. Ameren Trading Up 0.3% Shares of NYSE:AEE opened at $105.08 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $101.12 and its 200 day moving average is $101.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.49, a current ratio of 0.93 and a quick ratio of 0.64. Ameren has a 1 year low of $91.77 and a 1 year high of $106.73. The firm has a market capitalization of $28.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.21, a P/E/G ratio of 2.10 and a beta of 0.57. Ameren Company Profile (Get Free Report) Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE) is an integrated energy company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that provides electric and natural gas delivery and related services in portions of Missouri and Illinois. The company operates regulated utility businesses that serve a broad mix of residential, commercial and industrial customers, and it participates in wholesale energy markets and transmission operations that support reliable service across its service territories. Amerens core activities include generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, distribution of natural gas, and the provision of customer energy solutions such as demand-side management and energy efficiency programs. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Ameren Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ameren and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Photo: elements.envato.com The EU is exploring options for including EU membership guarantees in a potential peace agreement in Ukraine, Bloomberg reported on Monday, citing sources. The European Union is preparing a series of options to embed Ukraines membership [to bring together] in a future peace deal, according to people familiar with the matter, the agency informed. According to interlocutors, the options under consideration include providing Kyiv up front with the protection that comes with EU accession as well as immediate access to some membership rights. At the same time, the bloc would give Ukraine a clear timeframe of steps that it needs to take to advance with the formal procedure. Other options on the table would entail continuing along the existing accession path or introducing a transition period and gradual membership to the process, they said, declining to be named because the talks are sensitive, Bloomberg said. The agency recalls that a draft of the 20-point peace plan that Ukraine has been working on mostly with the US anticipates EU membership in 2027, with Kyiv receiving some of the benefits of membership in the interim. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said his country is aiming to join the bloc by that year as membership is a key security guarantee for Ukraine. Kyiv was granted candidate status in 2022 after the start of Russias full-scale invasion, and approval to begin accession talks at the end of 2023. Formal negotiations began in 2024 but the process has been stalled by Hungary which is blocking the opening of so-called negotiating chapters. EU membership usually takes years and progress requires the backing of all member states. Andritz (OTCMKTS:ADRZY Get Free Report) shares saw unusually-strong trading volume on Monday . Approximately 804 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 9% from the previous sessions volume of 879 shares.The stock last traded at $17.40 and had previously closed at $17.3750. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating on shares of Andritz in a research report on Monday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy. Get Andritz alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on ADRZY Andritz Price Performance About Andritz The company has a 50-day moving average of $16.14 and a 200 day moving average of $15.23. The company has a quick ratio of 0.84, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.05 billion, a PE ratio of 16.89 and a beta of 0.96. (Get Free Report) Andritz AG is a global technology group based in Graz, Austria, with a history dating back to its founding in 1852. The company specializes in providing equipment, systems, and services for industrial processes across four key business areas: Hydropower, Pulp & Paper, Metals, and Separation. Through a combination of engineering expertise and in-house manufacturing, Andritz develops tailored solutions that meet the demands of energy efficiency, resource optimization, and environmental sustainability. In its Hydropower division, Andritz designs and installs turbines, generators, and automation systems for run-of-river, reservoir and pumped storage plants. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Andritz Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Andritz and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance (NYSE:ARI Get Free Report) and Franklin BSP Realty Trust (NYSE:FBRT Get Free Report) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, profitability, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends, risk and analyst recommendations. Profitability This table compares Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance and Franklin BSP Realty Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance 51.40% 8.34% 1.70% Franklin BSP Realty Trust 38.83% 8.86% 1.91% Volatility and Risk Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance has a beta of 1.54, suggesting that its share price is 54% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Franklin BSP Realty Trust has a beta of 0.98, suggesting that its share price is 2% less volatile than the S&P 500. Earnings & Valuation Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance $303.67 million 4.95 -$119.64 million $0.89 12.15 Franklin BSP Realty Trust $210.45 million 3.96 $95.88 million $0.80 12.76 This table compares Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance and Franklin BSP Realty Trusts gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Franklin BSP Realty Trust has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance. Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Franklin BSP Realty Trust, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Institutional and Insider Ownership 54.4% of Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 59.9% of Franklin BSP Realty Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.7% of Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 0.7% of Franklin BSP Realty Trust shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance and Franklin BSP Realty Trust, as reported by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance 0 4 3 0 2.43 Franklin BSP Realty Trust 1 1 3 0 2.40 Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance presently has a consensus target price of $10.88, suggesting a potential upside of 0.60%. Franklin BSP Realty Trust has a consensus target price of $14.00, suggesting a potential upside of 37.19%. Given Franklin BSP Realty Trusts higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Franklin BSP Realty Trust is more favorable than Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance. Dividends Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance pays an annual dividend of $1.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 9.3%. Franklin BSP Realty Trust pays an annual dividend of $1.42 per share and has a dividend yield of 13.9%. Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance pays out 112.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Franklin BSP Realty Trust pays out 177.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Summary Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance beats Franklin BSP Realty Trust on 8 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks. About Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance (Get Free Report) Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. operates as a real estate investment trust (REIT) that originates, acquires, invests in, and manages commercial first mortgage loans, subordinate financings, and other commercial real estate-related debt investments in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. It is qualified as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code. As a REIT, it would not be subject to federal income taxes, if the company distributes at least 90% of its REIT taxable income to its stockholders. Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. was incorporated in 2009 and is based in New York, New York. About Franklin BSP Realty Trust (Get Free Report) Benefit Street Partners operates as a self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT). BSP earns income from investing in a leveraged portfolio of residential mortgage pass-through securities consisting almost exclusively of adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) securities issued and guaranteed by government-sponsored enterprises, either Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) or Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) (together, the government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs)), or by an agency of the federal government, Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). BSPs investment strategy focuses on managing a portfolio of residential mortgage investments consisting almost exclusively of ARM Agency Securities. As of December 31, 2012, the Companys securities consisted of Agency Securities classified as available-for-sale and Residential mortgage securities classified as held-to-maturity. Receive News & Ratings for Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BILL (NYSE:BILL) reported fiscal second-quarter 2026 results that management said extended the momentum from the prior quarter, with a meaningful beat on core revenue and profitability alongside what executives described as encouraging signs of SMB resilience. Get alerts: Chairman, CEO, and Founder Rene Lacerte said the company delivered 17% core revenue growth versus the prior year and achieved an 18% non-GAAP operating margin in Q2, while also seeing increasing spend volumes across the platform. Lacerte pointed to BILLs scalenearly 500,000 customers, more than 9,500 accounting firms on the platform, and over 8 million businesses in its proprietary B2B payment networkas central to its ability to drive engagement, transaction volume, and product adoption. Q2 highlights: revenue growth, margin expansion, and volume trends CFO Rohini Jain said BILL generatedin Q2, up 17% year over year and above the top end of guidance. She added that non-GAAP operating margin was 18%, expanding both sequentially and year over year, with internal efficiency initiatives yielding results. Within the integrated platform, Jain said growth in both AP/AR and Spend & Expense accelerated: AP/AR core revenue grew 11% year over year. BILL added approximately 4,000 net new customers in Q2. grew 11% year over year. BILL added approximately in Q2. AP/AR transaction revenue was $128 million , up 14% year over year. Jain said TPV per customer increased modestly and same-store sales TPV grew 4% year over year, above Q1s level. was , up 14% year over year. Jain said TPV per customer increased modestly and same-store sales TPV grew year over year, above Q1s level. Spend & Expense revenue was $166 million, up 24% year over year, which Jain attributed primarily to accelerated card volume growth and a better-than-expected take rate. On industry trends, Jain said manufacturing spend remained strong and construction showed an uptick on the AP/AR side, reversing the trend in recent quarters. For Spend & Expense, she cited a spend increase in advertising, retail, and healthcare services, and said card payment volume rose 25% year over year. Take rate was 255 basis points, which she said was driven by volume and higher-interchange verticals such as advertising and healthcare services. Jain also noted that non-GAAP operating margin excluding float expanded 70 basis points sequentially and 290 basis points year over year. During the quarter, the company repurchased $133 million of stock. Product adoption: multi-product, invoice financing, and Cash Account Lacerte emphasized increasing adoption of multiple BILL products, saying the number of businesses using both AP/AR and Spend & Expense rose 28% year over year in Q2. He said those customers generate more revenue per customer and tend to be stickier. He also highlighted invoice financing as a fast-growing solution aimed at improving SMB cash flow. In Q2, management said customers using invoice financing grew by nearly 50% year over year and origination volume increased by more than 30%. On the call, Lacerte said the product helps suppliers get paid four to six weeks earlier, and COO John Rettig added that BILL is managing rollout in a measured way to refine underwriting and risk models while ensuring the right economics as it scales. Lacerte discussed the launch of BILL Cash Account, describing it as an integrated operating account designed to help SMBs optimize cash flow and bring $ billions of monthly offline spend onto BILLs network. He said early indications since the Q2 launch show that more than 70% of Cash Account users increased their spend volumes on the network. AI and automation: agentic capabilities across workflows A major theme of the call was AI-driven automation. Lacerte said agentic AI is live across the platform, with a focus on vendor management, transaction entry, and operational efficiency and risk management. Among examples cited: Vendor management: BILLs W-9 agent and Smart Response agent automate tax document collection and vendor communications. Lacerte said nearly 10,000 customers enabled the W-9 agent in Q2 and 40,000 W-9s were collected. He said BILL expects the agent to collect and automate 3 million W-9s by year-end. BILLs W-9 agent and Smart Response agent automate tax document collection and vendor communications. Lacerte said nearly 10,000 customers enabled the W-9 agent in Q2 and 40,000 W-9s were collected. He said BILL expects the agent to collect and automate 3 million W-9s by year-end. Transactions: Lacerte said BILLs invoice coding agent can fully code complex invoices and reduce steps required by 90%. He also referenced auto-generated receipts and Gmail capture capabilities. Lacerte said BILLs invoice coding agent can fully code complex invoices and reduce steps required by 90%. He also referenced auto-generated receipts and Gmail capture capabilities. Risk and support: Lacerte said in the first half the companys systems stopped 5.3 million fraudulent attempts and reduced manual fraud reviews by 40%. He also said the BILL Assistant agent increased self-serve customer contacts from 13% prior to its introduction to 40% for customers enabled with the agent. In the Q&A, Lacerte addressed investor questions about AI disruption, arguing the risk was overplayed and emphasizing BILLs combination of contextual data, trust, and network effects. He pointed to more than $1 trillion in spend and payments on the network, hundreds of millions of transactions, over 1 billion documents, and the importance of trust when moving money where the precision bar is 100%. Go-to-market, pricing actions, and guidance updates Rettig reiterated three strategic priorities: growing through the integrated platform, expanding and penetrating the addressable market, and innovating with AI for customer value and internal productivity. He highlighted rapid adoption of the BILL Divvy Card for accounts payable payments, saying AP card payment volume grew more than 160% year over year in Q2. Rettig also discussed Supplier Payments Plus (SPP), saying early adopting suppliers have committed to approximately $400 million in annual TPV since the products introduction two quarters ago. He described SPP as a complement to virtual cards and a potential way to address a portion of ACH volume over time, while noting it is an enterprise sales motion with longer cycles and will take time to move the needle on overall metrics. On pricing and customer mix, Jain said BILL expects AP/AR net adds to trend down slightly in the short term as the company focuses on larger customers and aligns pricing with value delivered, noting subscription ARPU increased 1% sequentially. Management said it has implemented targeted subscription price increases for new and existing direct channel customers, with early results showing less churn than expected. For guidance, Jain provided the following outlook: Fiscal Q3 2026: total revenue of $397.5 million to $407.5 million; core revenue of $364.5 million to $374.5 million (14% to 17% growth); non-GAAP EPS of $0.53 to $0.57. total revenue of $397.5 million to $407.5 million; core revenue of $364.5 million to $374.5 million (14% to 17% growth); non-GAAP EPS of $0.53 to $0.57. Fiscal 2026: core revenue of $1.490 billion to $1.510 billion (15% to 16% growth), about 170 basis points higher than prior guidance; float revenue expected at $141.5 million; total revenue of $1.631 billion to $1.651 billion; non-GAAP operating margin approximately 17%. Jain also said the company now expects stock-based compensation expense of approximately $255 million for fiscal 2026, below previous guidance. In closing remarks, Lacerte said BILLs accelerated growth and margin expansion reflected the compounding advantage of our platform, which management believes supports sustained profitable growth over the long term. About BILL (NYSE:BILL) BILL Holdings, Inc provides financial automation software for small and midsize businesses worldwide. The company provides software-as-a-service, cloud-based payments, and spend management products, which allow users to automate accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions, as well as enable users to connect with their suppliers and/or customers to do business, eliminate expense reports, manage cash flows, and improve office efficiency. It also offers onboarding implementation support, and ongoing support and training services. Featured Articles British Land Company PLC Sponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:BTLCY Get Free Report) shares gapped down prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $5.64, but opened at $5.40. British Land shares last traded at $5.38, with a volume of 294 shares changing hands. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities research analysts have commented on BTLCY shares. UBS Group upgraded British Land from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of British Land in a report on Friday, December 5th. Finally, Panmure Gordon upgraded shares of British Land to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 2nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy. Get British Land alerts: Check Out Our Latest Research Report on BTLCY British Land Stock Performance About British Land The stocks 50-day moving average is $5.42 and its two-hundred day moving average is $5.00. (Get Free Report) British Land Company plc is a leading real estate investment trust primarily focused on the ownership, development and management of UK commercial property. The companys portfolio is centred on high-quality office and retail destinations in key urban locations, combining long-term holdings with active redevelopment projects. Its core business activities include leasing space to corporate and retail tenants, asset management, and undertaking new developments aimed at enhancing urban environments and driving sustainable value. Founded in 1856 as the Land Mortgage and Agency Company, British Land adopted its current name in the 1970s as it expanded beyond mortgage lending into direct property investment. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for British Land Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British Land and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brookdale Senior Living Inc. (NYSE:BKD Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $16.38 and last traded at $16.1350, with a volume of 166922 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $15.46. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of analysts have recently weighed in on BKD shares. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Brookdale Senior Living from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, November 23rd. Citigroup raised Brookdale Senior Living to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 6th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Brookdale Senior Living in a research note on Wednesday, January 21st. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Brookdale Senior Living to $18.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 3rd. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on shares of Brookdale Senior Living from $13.00 to $17.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, January 29th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $14.00. Get Brookdale Senior Living alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on BKD Brookdale Senior Living Price Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 39.87, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.84. The firm has a market cap of $3.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -12.46 and a beta of 0.69. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $11.77 and its 200-day moving average price is $9.65. Brookdale Senior Living (NYSE:BKD Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($0.20) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.16) by ($0.04). The firm had revenue of $813.17 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $825.59 million. Brookdale Senior Living had a negative return on equity of 173.75% and a negative net margin of 9.52%. Equities research analysts predict that Brookdale Senior Living Inc. will post -0.56 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Brookdale Senior Living Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Osaic Holdings Inc. increased its stake in shares of Brookdale Senior Living by 7.1% in the second quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 20,177 shares of the companys stock worth $140,000 after acquiring an additional 1,331 shares during the last quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS raised its stake in shares of Brookdale Senior Living by 7.0% during the 2nd quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 35,100 shares of the companys stock worth $244,000 after purchasing an additional 2,300 shares in the last quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Brookdale Senior Living by 0.3% during the 3rd quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 906,218 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,757,000 after buying an additional 2,810 shares during the last quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Brookdale Senior Living by 8.3% during the 4th quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC now owns 42,523 shares of the companys stock valued at $459,000 after buying an additional 3,264 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Covestor Ltd boosted its holdings in Brookdale Senior Living by 55.8% in the third quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 9,576 shares of the companys stock worth $81,000 after purchasing an additional 3,428 shares in the last quarter. Brookdale Senior Living Company Profile (Get Free Report) Brookdale Senior Living Inc (NYSE: BKD) is one of the nations largest operators of senior living communities, offering a full spectrum of living options that includes independent living, assisted living, memory care, continuing care retirement communities, respite care and skilled nursing services. The company emphasizes programs and amenities that support wellness, social engagement and overall quality of life for older adults. Across the United States and Puerto Rico, Brookdale manages more than 700 communities serving tens of thousands of residents. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Brookdale Senior Living Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookdale Senior Living and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A number of research firms have changed their ratings and price targets for CenterPoint Energy (NYSE: CNP): 2/7/2026 CenterPoint Energy was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a sell rating to a hold rating. 1/25/2026 CenterPoint Energy was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a sell rating. 1/21/2026 CenterPoint Energy had its underperform rating reaffirmed by analysts at Morgan Stanley. They now have a $37.00 price target on the stock. 1/20/2026 CenterPoint Energy had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $44.00 to $47.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 1/17/2026 CenterPoint Energy was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a sell rating to a hold rating. 1/15/2026 CenterPoint Energy had its price target lowered by analysts at Barclays PLC from $41.00 to $38.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock. 1/13/2026 CenterPoint Energy was upgraded by analysts at BMO Capital Markets from a market perform rating to an outperform rating. They now have a $42.00 price target on the stock. 1/3/2026 CenterPoint Energy was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a sell rating. 12/29/2025 CenterPoint Energy had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/17/2025 CenterPoint Energy had its price target lowered by analysts at UBS Group AG from $45.00 to $43.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/16/2025 CenterPoint Energy was given a new $36.00 price target on by analysts at Morgan Stanley. 12/15/2025 CenterPoint Energy had its buy (b) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/12/2025 CenterPoint Energy was upgraded by analysts at KeyCorp from a sector weight rating to an overweight rating. They now have a $41.00 price target on the stock. 12/11/2025 CenterPoint Energy had its price target lowered by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $43.00 to $41.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. CenterPoint Energy Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 12th. Investors of record on Thursday, February 19th will be paid a dividend of $0.23 per share. This is a boost from CenterPoint Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 19th. This represents a $0.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.3%. CenterPoint Energys dividend payout ratio is 55.70%. Get CenterPoint Energy Inc alerts: CenterPoint Energy, Inc (NYSE: CNP) is a Houston-based regulated utility company that provides electric and natural gas delivery services and related infrastructure operations. The companys principal activities center on the transmission and distribution of electricity in the greater Houston metropolitan area and the distribution of natural gas to customers across several states in the Midwest and South. As a vertically integrated utility, CenterPoint focuses on the reliable delivery of energy through owned and operated networks of lines, pipelines and associated facilities. CenterPoints core businesses include regulated electric transmission and distribution services, regulated natural gas distribution, and the operation and maintenance of energy infrastructure. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for CenterPoint Energy Inc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CenterPoint Energy Inc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. China Yuchai International Limited (NYSE:CYD Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $51.64 and last traded at $51.48, with a volume of 38244 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $50.00. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In CYD has been the topic of several recent research reports. Zacks Research downgraded China Yuchai International from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. UBS Group began coverage on shares of China Yuchai International in a report on Tuesday, January 6th. They issued a buy rating and a $60.00 price objective for the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded China Yuchai International from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Sunday, November 16th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of China Yuchai International in a report on Monday, December 22nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, China Yuchai International has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $60.00. Get China Yuchai International alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on China Yuchai International China Yuchai International Trading Up 0.0% Institutional Trading of China Yuchai International The business has a 50-day moving average of $39.89 and a 200 day moving average of $36.35. A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. bought a new stake in shares of China Yuchai International during the 3rd quarter valued at $724,000. Matthews International Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in China Yuchai International during the third quarter valued at $2,270,000. AdvisorShares Investments LLC bought a new stake in China Yuchai International during the third quarter valued at about $1,783,000. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. grew its holdings in China Yuchai International by 70.3% during the second quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 135,881 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,249,000 after purchasing an additional 56,085 shares during the period. Finally, Pinpoint Asset Management Singapore Pte. Ltd. purchased a new stake in China Yuchai International in the second quarter worth about $4,759,000. China Yuchai International Company Profile (Get Free Report) China Yuchai International Ltd. (NYSE: CYD) is a Cayman Islandsincorporated holding company with principal executive offices in Singapore. Through its subsidiaries, the company is a leading manufacturer and distributor of diesel engines in the Peoples Republic of China. Its principal operating subsidiary, Guangxi Yuchai Machinery Company Limited (GYMCL), has been producing diesel engines since 1951 and ranks among the countrys largest heavy-duty engine makers. The companys core product portfolio includes high-speed and medium-speed diesel engines for on-highway trucks and buses, off-road vehicles such as construction and agricultural machinery, marine propulsion systems, and power generator sets. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for China Yuchai International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for China Yuchai International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of Nova Scotia (NYSE:BNS Get Free Report) and Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, risk, dividends, profitability, earnings, valuation and institutional ownership. Profitability This table compares Bank of Nova Scotia and Banco Santander Chiles net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get Bank of Nova Scotia alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Bank of Nova Scotia 10.60% 12.10% 0.65% Banco Santander Chile 24.57% 23.25% 1.60% Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia and Banco Santander Chile, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Bank of Nova Scotia 0 4 1 0 2.20 Banco Santander Chile 2 4 0 0 1.67 Dividends Bank of Nova Scotia currently has a consensus target price of $97.00, suggesting a potential upside of 25.17%. Banco Santander Chile has a consensus target price of $27.67, suggesting a potential downside of 26.22%. Given Bank of Nova Scotias stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Bank of Nova Scotia is more favorable than Banco Santander Chile. Bank of Nova Scotia pays an annual dividend of $3.20 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.1%. Banco Santander Chile pays an annual dividend of $0.99 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.6%. Bank of Nova Scotia pays out 79.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Banco Santander Chile pays out 43.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Bank of Nova Scotia has raised its dividend for 14 consecutive years. Bank of Nova Scotia is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth. Insider and Institutional Ownership 49.1% of Bank of Nova Scotia shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 6.4% of Banco Santander Chile shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Valuation & Earnings This table compares Bank of Nova Scotia and Banco Santander Chiles gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Bank of Nova Scotia $37.10 billion 2.58 $5.56 billion $4.02 19.28 Banco Santander Chile $4.50 billion N/A $1.11 billion $2.30 16.30 Bank of Nova Scotia has higher revenue and earnings than Banco Santander Chile. Banco Santander Chile is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Bank of Nova Scotia, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Volatility and Risk Bank of Nova Scotia has a beta of 1.11, indicating that its share price is 11% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Banco Santander Chile has a beta of 0.58, indicating that its share price is 42% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Bank of Nova Scotia beats Banco Santander Chile on 11 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks. About Bank of Nova Scotia (Get Free Report) The Bank of Nova Scotia provides various banking products and services in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and Central America, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Banking, International Banking, Global Wealth Management, and Global Banking and Markets segments. The company offers financial advice and solutions, and banking products, including debit and credit cards, chequing and saving accounts, investments, mortgages, loans, and insurance to individuals; and retail automotive financing solutions. It also provides business banking solutions comprising lending, deposit, cash management, and trade finance solutions to small, medium, and large businesses. In addition, it provides wealth management advice and solutions, including online brokerage, mobile investment, full-service brokerage, trust, private banking, and private investment counsel services; and retail mutual funds, exchange traded funds, liquid alternatives, and institutional funds. The Bank of Nova Scotia was founded in 1832 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. About Banco Santander Chile (Get Free Report) Banco Santander-Chile, together with its subsidiaries, provides commercial and retail banking services in Chile. It operates through Retail Banking, Middle-Market, Corporate Investment Banking, and Corporate Activities segments. The company offers debit and credit cards, checking accounts, and savings products; consumer, automobile, commercial, mortgage, and government-guaranteed loans; and Chilean peso and foreign currency-denominated loans to finance various commercial transactions, trade, foreign currency forward contracts, and credit lines, as well as mortgage financing services. It also provides mutual fund management, insurance and securities brokerage, foreign exchange services, financial leasing, financial consulting and advisory, investment management, foreign trade, leasing, factoring, treasury, and transactional services, as well as specialized services to finance residential projects. In addition, the company offers short-term financing and fundraising, and brokerage services, as well as derivatives, securitization, and other products; and manages capital allocations. It serves individuals, small to middle-sized entities, companies, and large corporations, as well as universities, government entities, and local and regional governments. The company was incorporated in 1977 and is headquartered in Santiago, Chile. Banco Santander-Chile operates as a subsidiary of Banco Santander, S.A. Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CVS Health (NYSE:CVS Get Free Report) is projected to release its Q4 2025 results before the market opens on Tuesday, February 10th. Analysts expect CVS Health to post earnings of $0.99 per share and revenue of $103.6718 billion for the quarter. Interested persons may visit the the companys upcoming Q4 2025 earning results page for the latest details on the call scheduled for Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM ET. CVS Health Trading Up 2.7% Shares of CVS stock opened at $78.38 on Monday. CVS Health has a 1-year low of $53.36 and a 1-year high of $85.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.83 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $78.62 and its 200 day moving average price is $75.75. The firm has a market capitalization of $99.50 billion, a PE ratio of 206.27, a P/E/G ratio of 0.72 and a beta of 0.50. Get CVS Health alerts: CVS Health Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, February 2nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, January 22nd were issued a $0.665 dividend. This represents a $2.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.4%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, January 22nd. CVS Healths dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 700.00%. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts recently commented on CVS shares. Raymond James Financial boosted their price objective on shares of CVS Health from $75.00 to $90.00 in a report on Friday, October 31st. Wolfe Research boosted their price target on CVS Health from $85.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, December 8th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of CVS Health in a research note on Monday, December 29th. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on CVS Health from $89.00 to $93.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 10th. Finally, Barclays raised their price target on CVS Health from $87.00 to $93.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 10th. Nineteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $94.82. Get Our Latest Report on CVS Health Institutional Investors Weigh In On CVS Health Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Legacy Advisors LLC purchased a new position in CVS Health in the third quarter valued at about $249,000. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of CVS Health during the 3rd quarter valued at about $215,000. PFG Advisors acquired a new position in CVS Health during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $205,000. MUFG Securities EMEA plc acquired a new position in CVS Health during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $258,000. Finally, McIlrath & Eck LLC boosted its holdings in CVS Health by 422.9% in the 2nd quarter. McIlrath & Eck LLC now owns 3,383 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $233,000 after acquiring an additional 2,736 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.66% of the companys stock. CVS Health Company Profile (Get Free Report) CVS Health Corporation is a diversified healthcare company that operates a large network of retail pharmacies, pharmacy benefit management services and health care solutions. Headquartered in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, the company traces its roots to the early 1960s and has grown into an integrated provider of prescription drugs, overthecounter products, clinical services and health insurance offerings. Its operating model combines retail pharmacy locations and instore clinics with broader pharmacy and health plan capabilities. Key business activities include CVS Pharmacy retail operations, MinuteClinic walkin medical clinics and HealthHUB locations that offer expanded clinical services. Read More Receive News & Ratings for CVS Health Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CVS Health and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Laurentian Bank of Canada (TSE:LB Get Free Report) had its price objective reduced by stock analysts at Desjardins from C$50.00 to C$40.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage presently has a tender rating on the stock. Desjardins target price suggests a potential downside of 0.15% from the companys previous close. A number of other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. Raymond James Financial downgraded shares of Laurentian Bank of Canada from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 8th. Scotiabank set a C$33.00 target price on Laurentian Bank of Canada and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce downgraded Laurentian Bank of Canada from a neutral rating to a tender rating and boosted their price target for the company from C$35.00 to C$40.50 in a research note on Monday, December 8th. BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of Laurentian Bank of Canada from C$31.00 to C$40.50 in a report on Monday, December 8th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of Laurentian Bank of Canada from a strong sell rating to a hold rating and lifted their price objective for the company from C$25.00 to C$40.00 in a research note on Monday, December 8th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Strong Sell and a consensus price target of C$36.44. Get Laurentian Bank of Canada alerts: View Our Latest Report on LB Laurentian Bank of Canada Trading Up 0.2% Shares of TSE LB traded up C$0.06 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching C$40.06. 63,612 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 285,151. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$39.88 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$34.86. The firm has a market capitalization of C$1.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.11, a PEG ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.49. Laurentian Bank of Canada has a twelve month low of C$24.37 and a twelve month high of C$40.42. Laurentian Bank of Canada (TSE:LB Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, December 5th. The company reported C$0.73 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of C$244.71 million during the quarter. Laurentian Bank of Canada had a negative net margin of 0.30% and a negative return on equity of 0.20%. Equities research analysts predict that Laurentian Bank of Canada will post 3.8414986 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Laurentian Bank of Canada Company Profile (Get Free Report) Laurentian Bank of Canada provides personal banking, business banking and real estate and commercial financing to its personal, business, and institutional customers across Canada and the United States. The company reports three operating segments: personal, business services, and capital markets. The personal segment offers financial services to retail clients. The business services segment provides financial services, commercial banking, real estate financing, and equipment and inventory financing to business clients. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Laurentian Bank of Canada Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Laurentian Bank of Canada and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hitachi Ltd. (OTCMKTS:HTHIY Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $39.00 and last traded at $37.48, with a volume of 665330 shares. The stock had previously closed at $35.50. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, Zacks Research raised Hitachi from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold. Get Hitachi alerts: Check Out Our Latest Analysis on HTHIY Hitachi Stock Up 6.7% The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $32.64 and a 200-day moving average price of $30.56. The firm has a market cap of $173.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 0.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 0.88. Hitachi (OTCMKTS:HTHIY Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 29th. The conglomerate reported $0.24 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.23 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $17.68 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.85 billion. Hitachi had a return on equity of 13.38% and a net margin of 8.05%. As a group, equities analysts predict that Hitachi Ltd. will post 0.47 EPS for the current fiscal year. About Hitachi (Get Free Report) Hitachi, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:HTHIY) is a Tokyo-headquartered multinational conglomerate that operates a diversified portfolio of businesses spanning information technology, energy and power systems, industrial machinery, transportation systems, and digital solutions. Founded in 1910 by engineer Namihei Odaira in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, the company grew from an electrical repair shop and early induction motor manufacturing into a global engineering and technology group. Hitachi positions itself as a social innovation company, combining operational technology, information technology and domain knowledge to address infrastructure and industry challenges. The companys activities include design and manufacture of heavy industrial equipment and construction machinery, delivery of rail and urban transportation systems, development and provision of power generation and grid equipment, and enterprise IT services including systems integration and cloud solutions. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Hitachi Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hitachi and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $32.38 and last traded at $32.67, with a volume of 51854 shares. The stock had previously closed at $32.88. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms recently issued reports on HRB. Barrington Research dropped their price objective on H&R Block from $62.00 to $50.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $32.00 price objective on H&R Block in a research report on Friday. Finally, Weiss Ratings downgraded H&R Block from a hold (c-) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a report on Tuesday, February 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $41.00. Get H&R Block alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on H&R Block H&R Block Price Performance The firms 50-day moving average is $41.71 and its two-hundred day moving average is $47.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 12.86, a current ratio of 1.29 and a quick ratio of 1.29. The company has a market cap of $4.12 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.51, a PEG ratio of 0.53 and a beta of 0.36. H&R Block (NYSE:HRB Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, February 3rd. The company reported ($1.84) earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($1.96) by $0.12. H&R Block had a negative return on equity of 176.02% and a net margin of 16.19%.The firm had revenue of $198.87 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $187.36 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted ($1.73) EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. H&R Block has set its FY 2026 guidance at 4.850-5.000 EPS. Analysts anticipate that H&R Block, Inc. will post 5.25 earnings per share for the current year. H&R Block Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 6th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 4th will be given a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 4th. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.2%. H&R Blocks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 38.80%. Insider Buying and Selling In other news, CEO Jeffrey J. Jones II sold 128,818 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.54, for a total value of $5,737,553.72. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 861,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at $38,362,881.02. This represents a 13.01% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.40% of the companys stock. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in H&R Block in the second quarter valued at $97,826,000. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of H&R Block by 60.4% in the third quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,593,290 shares of the companys stock valued at $130,961,000 after purchasing an additional 976,069 shares during the period. Boston Partners increased its holdings in H&R Block by 20.2% during the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 3,886,544 shares of the companys stock valued at $196,542,000 after acquiring an additional 652,690 shares in the last quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. lifted its holdings in H&R Block by 71,048.9% in the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 597,651 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,046,000 after purchasing an additional 596,811 shares in the last quarter. Finally, UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC boosted its position in shares of H&R Block by 335.4% in the third quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 749,298 shares of the companys stock worth $37,892,000 after acquiring an additional 577,200 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.14% of the companys stock. About H&R Block (Get Free Report) H&R Block (NYSE: HRB) is a leading provider of tax preparation services and software solutions, serving individual and small-business clients through a combination of retail offices, online platforms and mobile applications. The company offers assisted tax preparation at its network of retail offices, where clients work with trained tax professionals, as well as do-it-yourself (DIY) software and online filing services designed to guide users through the complexities of federal and state tax returns. Founded in 1955 by brothers Henry W. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for H&R Block Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for H&R Block and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEUR Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $75.67 and last traded at $75.7150, with a volume of 261425 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $75.03. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Price Performance The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $71.98 and a 200-day simple moving average of $69.19. The stock has a market cap of $7.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.78 and a beta of 0.93. Get iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Bank of America Corp DE grew its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 73.5% during the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 5,374,280 shares of the companys stock valued at $366,096,000 after buying an additional 2,277,084 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 15.0% in the 3rd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 6,513,210 shares of the companys stock worth $443,680,000 after purchasing an additional 847,912 shares during the period. Elm Partners Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 83.6% during the second quarter. Elm Partners Management LLC now owns 997,863 shares of the companys stock valued at $66,059,000 after purchasing an additional 454,272 shares during the period. Benjamin Edwards Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF in the third quarter worth approximately $30,907,000. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF by 4.4% in the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 8,954,178 shares of the companys stock worth $592,767,000 after buying an additional 375,479 shares during the period. About iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF The iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (IEUR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Europe IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of developed European securities. IEUR was launched on Jun 10, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. UWM Holdings Corporation (NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report) CEO Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock in a transaction on Monday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $4.61, for a total transaction of $2,917,549.14. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 3,692,273 shares in the company, valued at $17,021,378.53. This represents a 14.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Ishbia Mat also recently made the following trade(s): Get UWM alerts: On Friday, February 6th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $4.84, for a total value of $3,063,110.16. On Wednesday, February 4th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.05, for a total transaction of $3,196,013.70. On Monday, February 2nd, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.20, for a total transaction of $3,290,944.80. On Friday, January 30th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.00, for a total value of $3,164,370.00. On Wednesday, January 28th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.89, for a total value of $3,727,627.86. On Monday, January 26th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.75, for a total transaction of $3,639,025.50. On Thursday, January 22nd, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.87, for a total transaction of $3,714,970.38. On Tuesday, January 20th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.82, for a total value of $3,683,326.68. On Friday, January 16th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $6.04, for a total value of $3,822,558.96. On Wednesday, January 14th, Ishbia Mat sold 632,874 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.46, for a total transaction of $3,455,492.04. UWM Trading Down 2.3% Shares of NYSE:UWMC traded down $0.11 during trading on Monday, reaching $4.64. 13,417,341 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 20,062,928. UWM Holdings Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $3.80 and a fifty-two week high of $7.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.40, a current ratio of 1.45 and a quick ratio of 1.45. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $5.22 and a 200-day simple moving average of $5.43. Institutional Inflows and Outflows UWM ( NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.01 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.07 by ($0.06). UWM had a negative return on equity of 6.81% and a net margin of 0.61%.The business had revenue of $151.14 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $651.51 million. On average, equities research analysts predict that UWM Holdings Corporation will post 0.2 EPS for the current fiscal year. Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Integrated Investment Consultants LLC acquired a new stake in shares of UWM in the third quarter valued at about $32,630,000. 683 Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in UWM in the 2nd quarter valued at about $19,872,000. Balyasny Asset Management L.P. lifted its stake in shares of UWM by 116.6% during the 2nd quarter. Balyasny Asset Management L.P. now owns 5,991,072 shares of the companys stock worth $24,803,000 after purchasing an additional 3,224,806 shares during the period. Two Sigma Investments LP increased its stake in UWM by 165.5% in the third quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 4,988,898 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,382,000 after purchasing an additional 3,109,591 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Holocene Advisors LP boosted its position in shares of UWM by 1,986.0% in the third quarter. Holocene Advisors LP now owns 3,231,243 shares of the companys stock worth $19,678,000 after acquiring an additional 3,076,340 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 53.59% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes Several analysts recently issued reports on UWMC shares. Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on shares of UWM in a research note on Friday, December 19th. They set a hold rating and a $5.00 price objective for the company. UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of UWM from $5.50 to $6.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on shares of UWM from $6.50 to $6.75 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, December 18th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of UWM from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 15th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group set a $5.00 target price on shares of UWM in a research note on Tuesday, January 6th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $6.53. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on UWM About UWM (Get Free Report) United Wholesale Mortgage (NYSE: UWMC) is a leading mortgage lender in the United States specializing in the wholesale channel. The company partners with independent mortgage brokers, community banks and credit unions to offer a full suite of residential mortgage products. Through its network of third-party originators, United Wholesale Mortgage underwrites, funds and closes loans, allowing its partners to focus on customer acquisition and service. The companys product offerings include conventional fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages, Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans, Veterans Affairs (VA) loans, U.S. Read More Receive News & Ratings for UWM Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UWM and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Molina Healthcare (NYSE:MOH Get Free Report) had its price objective lowered by TD Cowen from $175.00 to $144.00 in a report released on Monday,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has a hold rating on the stock. TD Cowens price objective would suggest a potential upside of 14.16% from the companys previous close. A number of other equities analysts have also recently commented on MOH. Mizuho set a $220.00 price objective on shares of Molina Healthcare in a research report on Friday, January 9th. Truist Financial set a $175.00 target price on Molina Healthcare in a report on Friday, October 24th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Molina Healthcare from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, October 25th. Morgan Stanley set a $158.00 price target on Molina Healthcare in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft set a $165.00 price target on Molina Healthcare in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $174.07. Get Molina Healthcare alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on MOH Molina Healthcare Trading Down 4.2% Shares of MOH stock traded down $5.58 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $126.14. 1,921,674 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,760,610. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.84 billion, a PE ratio of 14.77 and a beta of 0.49. Molina Healthcare has a 1-year low of $123.71 and a 1-year high of $359.97. The company has a quick ratio of 1.68, a current ratio of 1.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $173.19 and a 200 day moving average price of $170.69. Molina Healthcare (NYSE:MOH Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 5th. The company reported ($2.75) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.43 by ($3.18). The firm had revenue of $11.38 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.90 billion. Molina Healthcare had a return on equity of 13.60% and a net margin of 1.04%.Molina Healthcares revenue for the quarter was up 8.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $5.05 EPS. Molina Healthcare has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.000- EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Molina Healthcare will post 24.4 EPS for the current year. Insider Transactions at Molina Healthcare In other news, Director Richard M. Schapiro sold 357 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $143.02, for a total value of $51,058.14. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 11,352 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,623,563.04. The trade was a 3.05% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 1.26% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of MOH. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Molina Healthcare by 217.0% during the 3rd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,934,130 shares of the companys stock worth $561,475,000 after buying an additional 2,008,458 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Molina Healthcare by 25.9% in the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,601,574 shares of the companys stock valued at $477,109,000 after acquiring an additional 329,759 shares during the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Molina Healthcare by 344.3% in the third quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 963,526 shares of the companys stock valued at $184,380,000 after purchasing an additional 746,639 shares in the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its holdings in shares of Molina Healthcare by 31.0% in the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 938,677 shares of the companys stock valued at $179,632,000 after buying an additional 222,346 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Molina Healthcare during the 2nd quarter worth $212,113,000. 98.50% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Molina Healthcare Company Profile (Get Free Report) Molina Healthcare, Inc is a managed care company specializing in government-sponsored health insurance programs. The company offers Medicaid managed care plans, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans, and individual Marketplace plans under the Affordable Care Act. Through an integrated care model, Molina emphasizes preventive and primary care services, care coordination, and disease management to improve health outcomes for its members. The company traces its roots to the early 1980s, when Dr. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Molina Healthcare Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Molina Healthcare and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Parks! America (OTCMKTS:PRKA) held its first quarter fiscal 2026 earnings call with limited formal prepared remarks, as management said no questions were submitted in advance and no live questions were raised during the webcast. Get alerts: Operator Doug Jaffe opened the call with customary disclosures, noting that managements comments could include forward-looking statements and potential references to non-GAAP measures, with additional detail available in the companys quarterly filings. Jaffe said the company filed its quarterly earnings release and Form 10-Q with the Securities and Exchange Commission the prior Friday, and encouraged shareholders to review the 10-Q for more complete information, including segment financial results referenced in the earnings materials. Stock repurchase plan: no activity reported in the quarter President Geoff Gannon highlighted that the companys 10-Q disclosed no repurchases under the stock repurchase plan during the quarter. He said the plan had only been in place for a few days in the period, and he cautioned investors not to read too much into the lack of early activity. Gannon attributed the expected slow pace primarily to administrative and practical constraints associated with the companys stock, describing it as illiquid and noting that some shareholders have held shares for a long time, including in physical form. He said the absence of meaningful amounts of repurchases early on would not indicate a lack of interest in buying back shares, but rather the time required to administer the plan compared to more liquid public companies. Revenue recognition policy change tied to ticket redemption Gannon also pointed to a change discussed in the companys revenue recognition note for fiscal 2026 related to the ticket redemption window. He explained that, historically, if a ticket was purchased but not scanned at the park, revenue recognition could be delayed for up to a year because tickets were available to be redeemed anytime during the following year. Under the updated approach, Gannon said the ticket redemption policy will be different such that tickets are not just available to be redeemed for a whole year. He characterized the accounting impact as likely a really small item, and said the change should simplify accounting. He noted that most tickets are purchased and used promptlyscanned on entryat which point revenue is recognized in the normal course. Marketing-related staffing expected to lift personnel costs In additional remarks near the end of the call, Gannon said the company expects higher expenses in personnel costs tied to planned salary additions in marketing. He described the increase as involving two to three people and said it was the first quarter in which this change appeared in personnel costs. According to Gannon, the employees will support marketing activities such as events, social media, and graphic design, and will work across all three of the companys parks. He emphasized that these costs are allocated to the parks and reflected in segment income, as presented in the companys reporting. Gannon did not provide guidance on whether the additional personnel costs would affect margins as a percentage of sales, saying that would depend on sales performance. However, he said the company expects personnel costs to be higher in dollar terms during the year as these additional full-time employees are added and shared across the parks. He described this as a notable change, adding that the company previously did not have personnel expenses of this type spanning all three parks. Weather commentary: holiday benefit, near-term disruptions expected Gannon also referenced weather as a factor, noting that conditions were particularly good during the week of Christmas. He said he did not view weather as a major driver, but suggested it could have mattered by a couple % of sales at each park. To assess the scale of weathers impact, Gannon suggested comparing the companys performance to larger peers in theme parks and attractions that may discuss weather in their own results. He reasoned that because Parks! America operates three parks in three different states, broader industry trends could help indicate whether weather was a significant factor. Looking to the current quarter, Gannon said adverse weather would likely be a headwind, referencing ice storms and park closures. He said this would not be a surprise and noted that the period is typically a slow time of year for the company. He added that there could be a couple of weeks with barely any sales, and said investors should be prepared for that seasonal pattern. With no questions from participants, the call concluded after managements brief updates. About Parks! America (OTCMKTS:PRKA) Parks! America, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in acquiring, developing, and operating local and regional theme parks and attractions in the United States. The company owns and operates three Wild Animal Safari theme parks located in Pine Mountain, Georgia; Strafford, Missouri; and Bryan/College Station, Texas. The company was formerly known as Great American Family Parks, Inc and changed its name to Parks! America, Inc in June 2008. Parks! America, Inc is based in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Featured Articles JATT Acquisition (NYSE:JATT Get Free Report) and Protalix BioTherapeutics (NYSE:PLX Get Free Report) are both small-cap medical companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, profitability, risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, earnings and institutional ownership. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of current ratings for JATT Acquisition and Protalix BioTherapeutics, as reported by MarketBeat. Get JATT Acquisition alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score JATT Acquisition 0 0 0 0 0.00 Protalix BioTherapeutics 0 0 1 0 3.00 Protalix BioTherapeutics has a consensus price target of $12.00, suggesting a potential upside of 315.22%. Given Protalix BioTherapeutics stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Protalix BioTherapeutics is more favorable than JATT Acquisition. Institutional and Insider Ownership Valuation & Earnings 48.0% of JATT Acquisition shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 16.5% of Protalix BioTherapeutics shares are held by institutional investors. 20.0% of JATT Acquisition shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 6.5% of Protalix BioTherapeutics shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. This table compares JATT Acquisition and Protalix BioTherapeuticss gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio JATT Acquisition N/A N/A $6.85 million N/A N/A Protalix BioTherapeutics $61.84 million 3.76 $8.31 million $0.07 41.29 Protalix BioTherapeutics has higher revenue and earnings than JATT Acquisition. Profitability This table compares JATT Acquisition and Protalix BioTherapeutics net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets JATT Acquisition N/A -49.58% 2.84% Protalix BioTherapeutics -21.03% -30.89% -11.74% Summary Protalix BioTherapeutics beats JATT Acquisition on 6 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks. About JATT Acquisition (Get Free Report) JATT Acquisition Corp does not have significant operations. It intends to effect a merger, capital share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The company intends to focus on businesses primarily operating in the life sciences sector. JATT Acquisition Corp was incorporated in 2021 and is based in Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands. About Protalix BioTherapeutics (Get Free Report) Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, engages in the development, production, and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins based on its proprietary ProCellEx plant cell-based protein expression system in the United States, Australia, Canada, Israel, Brazil, Russia, Turkey, and internationally. The company offers Elelyso for the treatment of Gaucher disease; and Elfabrio for the treatment of adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Fabry disease. It is also developing PRX-115, a plant cell-expressed recombinant PEGylated Uricase which is in Phase I trial for the treatment of gout; and PRX-119, a plant cell-expressed PEGylated recombinant human DNase I product candidate that is in preclinical phase for the treatment of NETs-related diseases. The company has agreements and partnerships with Pfizer; Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz; and Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A. The company was incorporated in 1993 and is headquartered in Karmiel, Israel. Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc. is a subsidiary of Protalix Ltd. Receive News & Ratings for JATT Acquisition Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JATT Acquisition and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Teck Resources (TSE:TECK.B Get Free Report) had its price objective increased by stock analysts at Raymond James Financial from C$70.00 to C$77.00 in a research note issued on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. Raymond James Financials price objective would suggest a potential downside of 1.86% from the companys current price. A number of other brokerages have also recently commented on TECK.B. Citigroup raised Teck Resources from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their target price for the stock from C$76.00 to C$104.00 in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on Teck Resources from C$71.00 to C$80.00 in a research note on Monday, January 12th. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce lifted their price objective on Teck Resources from C$61.00 to C$77.00 in a research report on Wednesday, February 4th. National Bankshares increased their target price on shares of Teck Resources from C$70.00 to C$80.00 in a report on Thursday, January 29th. Finally, Scotiabank lifted their price target on shares of Teck Resources from C$60.00 to C$70.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, January 8th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$73.75. Get Teck Resources alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Teck Resources Teck Resources Stock Performance About Teck Resources TECK.B stock traded up C$3.31 during midday trading on Monday, reaching C$78.46. 592,088 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,182,344. The company has a current ratio of 1.48, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 37.46. Teck Resources has a 52-week low of C$40.23 and a 52-week high of C$82.18. The stock has a market cap of C$38.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.51, a PEG ratio of -0.38 and a beta of 2.06. The stocks 50-day moving average is C$67.60 and its 200 day moving average is C$58.66. (Get Free Report) Teck is a diversified miner with coal, copper, zinc, and oil sands operations in Canada, the United States, Chile, and Peru. Metallurgical coal is Tecks primary commodity in terms of EBITDA contribution, closely followed by copper, with zinc and oil sands contributing smaller amounts to earnings. Teck ranks as the worlds second- largest exporter of seaborne metallurgical coal and is a top-three zinc miner. It is building a major new copper mine in Chile at the majority-owned Quebrada Blanca 2, in partnership with Sumitomo, which will increase Tecks attributable copper production by around 80%. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Teck Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Teck Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Several analysts have recently updated their ratings and price targets for NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE): 2/2/2026 NextEra Energy had its price target lowered by analysts at Seaport Research Partners from $56.00 to $55.00. They now have a sell rating on the stock. 1/29/2026 NextEra Energy was given a new $95.00 price target on by analysts at BMO Capital Markets. 1/28/2026 NextEra Energy was given a new $92.00 price target on by analysts at Argus. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/28/2026 NextEra Energy was given a new $90.00 price target on by analysts at Mizuho. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/28/2026 NextEra Energy had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at BTIG Research. They now have a $103.00 price target on the stock. 1/28/2026 NextEra Energy had its price target raised by analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from $94.00 to $98.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/27/2026 NextEra Energy had its price target raised by analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $89.00 to $93.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock. 1/21/2026 NextEra Energy had its overweight rating reaffirmed by analysts at Morgan Stanley. They now have a $104.00 price target on the stock. 1/20/2026 NextEra Energy had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $97.00 to $98.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 1/15/2026 NextEra Energy had its price target raised by analysts at Barclays PLC from $84.00 to $85.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock. 1/14/2026 NextEra Energy was given a new $87.00 price target on by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc.. 12/31/2025 NextEra Energy had its hold rating reaffirmed by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc.. They now have a $88.00 price target on the stock, up previously from $85.00. 12/29/2025 NextEra Energy had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/22/2025 NextEra Energy had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/17/2025 NextEra Energy was given a new $91.00 price target on by analysts at UBS Group AG. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/15/2025 NextEra Energy had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/11/2025 NextEra Energy had its price target raised by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $94.00 to $97.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. Insider Buying and Selling In other news, EVP Ronald R. Reagan sold 18,620 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $90.00, for a total value of $1,675,800.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 9,643 shares in the company, valued at $867,870. This trade represents a 65.88% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Armando Pimentel, Jr. sold 145,140 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.91, for a total transaction of $12,178,697.40. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 162,693 shares of the companys stock, valued at $13,651,569.63. The trade was a 47.15% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 204,586 shares of company stock valued at $17,474,707 over the last ninety days. Insiders own 0.18% of the companys stock. Get NextEra Energy Inc alerts: NextEra Energy, Inc (NYSE: NEE), headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, is a leading clean energy company with both regulated utility operations and competitive renewable generation businesses. The companys principal operating subsidiaries include Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), a regulated electric utility serving customers in Florida, and NextEra Energy Resources, which develops, constructs, owns and operates a large portfolio of wind, solar and energy storage projects. Together these businesses provide electricity supply, transmission and distribution services as well as utility-scale renewable generation and related services. NextEras activities cover the full lifecycle of power assets, from project development and construction to operation, maintenance and asset optimization. See Also Receive News & Ratings for NextEra Energy Inc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NextEra Energy Inc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Robert Half Inc. (NYSE:RHI Get Free Report)s stock price dropped 5.5% on Monday . The company traded as low as $29.56 and last traded at $29.66. Approximately 212,667 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 93% from the average daily volume of 3,057,656 shares. The stock had previously closed at $31.40. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on the company. BMO Capital Markets reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $35.00 price objective on shares of Robert Half in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Barclays cut their price objective on Robert Half from $45.00 to $36.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Robert W. Baird set a $50.00 price target on Robert Half in a research report on Friday, January 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price target on shares of Robert Half from $24.00 to $27.00 and gave the stock a sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 3rd. Finally, Truist Financial lifted their price objective on shares of Robert Half from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 30th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have issued a Hold rating and four have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $33.50. Get Robert Half alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Robert Half Robert Half Trading Down 7.4% The business has a 50 day moving average of $28.31 and a 200-day moving average of $31.20. The stock has a market cap of $2.94 billion, a PE ratio of 21.86 and a beta of 0.88. Robert Half (NYSE:RHI Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The business services provider reported $0.32 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by $0.02. Robert Half had a net margin of 2.47% and a return on equity of 10.20%. The business had revenue of $1.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.29 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.53 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 5.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts expect that Robert Half Inc. will post 2.48 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Robert Half Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Royal Bank of Canada increased its stake in Robert Half by 19.3% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 38,352 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $2,092,000 after buying an additional 6,212 shares during the period. Jones Financial Companies Lllp increased its stake in shares of Robert Half by 498.7% during the first quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 6,813 shares of the business services providers stock worth $372,000 after acquiring an additional 5,675 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its holdings in Robert Half by 2.5% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 304,359 shares of the business services providers stock worth $16,603,000 after purchasing an additional 7,523 shares in the last quarter. Empowered Funds LLC lifted its position in Robert Half by 91.8% in the first quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 55,719 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $3,039,000 after purchasing an additional 26,672 shares during the period. Finally, Sivia Capital Partners LLC boosted its holdings in Robert Half by 94.6% in the 2nd quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC now owns 8,098 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $332,000 after purchasing an additional 3,937 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.41% of the companys stock. Robert Half Company Profile (Get Free Report) Robert Half International Inc, founded in 1948 by Robert Half, is a global professional staffing and consulting firm headquartered in Menlo Park, California. As a pioneer in specialized staffing, the company has built a reputation for matching skilled professionals with leading organizations across a range of industries. Robert Halfs shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker RHI, reflecting its position as one of the longeststanding and bestknown firms in the staffing sector. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including temporary staffing, permanent placement, and consulting solutions. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Robert Half Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Robert Half and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Trailer: Upcoming 'Tales of Cities' special: Michael One Shots Chaozhou 13:36, February 09, 2026 By Liu Ning, Wang Xiaoping, Michael Kurtagh, Chen Xinyi, Zhang Liquan ( People's Daily Online One hour. No cuts. Whatever happens, happens. "Michael One Shots Chaozhou" is a special edition of People's Daily Online's "Tales of Cities" series. Set in the ancient city of Chaozhou in south China's Guangdong Province, this upcoming one-shot journey happens all in real time. No pauses. No retakes. Just a taste of the city's rhythm, food, and culture. Stay tuned for the full film. (Web editor: Wang Xiaoping, Wu Chengliang) Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LON:RR Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the six analysts that are covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is GBX 1,244. A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Berenberg Bank upgraded shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc to a hold rating and increased their target price for the stock from GBX 240 to GBX 1,080 in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price objective on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 1,290 to GBX 1,550 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Insider Buying and Selling Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Price Performance In other news, insider Birgit Behrendt bought 100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 8th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 1,096 per share, with a total value of 1,096. Also, insider Tufan Erginbilgic sold 6,128 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 1,065, for a total transaction of 65,263.20. Over the last three months, insiders bought 516 shares of company stock valued at $605,142 and sold 19,783 shares valued at $22,879,196. Company insiders own 0.04% of the companys stock. Shares of RR opened at GBX 1,229 on Monday. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a 1 year low of GBX 196.45 and a 1 year high of GBX 537.20. The stocks fifty day moving average price is GBX 1,182.03 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 1,130.43. The firm has a market cap of 105.40 billion, a PE ratio of 44.80, a PEG ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 1.82. About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (Get Free Report) Rolls-Royce Holdings plc develops and delivers complex power and propulsion solutions for air, sea, and land in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Civil Aerospace, Defence, Power Systems, and New Markets. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, markets, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services. The Defence segment is involved in the development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of military aero engines, naval engines, and submarine nuclear power plants, as well as offers aftermarket services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report) by 34.3% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 22,854 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 5,833 shares during the quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLCs holdings in Citigroup were worth $2,358,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of C. FMB Wealth Management raised its stake in shares of Citigroup by 4.1% during the third quarter. FMB Wealth Management now owns 2,618 shares of the companys stock valued at $266,000 after acquiring an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. Tritonpoint Wealth LLC lifted its holdings in Citigroup by 2.1% in the 3rd quarter. Tritonpoint Wealth LLC now owns 4,989 shares of the companys stock worth $506,000 after buying an additional 104 shares during the period. Onyx Bridge Wealth Group LLC grew its position in shares of Citigroup by 3.6% in the 2nd quarter. Onyx Bridge Wealth Group LLC now owns 3,117 shares of the companys stock worth $265,000 after buying an additional 109 shares during the last quarter. Highline Wealth Partners LLC raised its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 35.3% during the third quarter. Highline Wealth Partners LLC now owns 418 shares of the companys stock valued at $42,000 after acquiring an additional 109 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fullcircle Wealth LLC raised its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 0.9% during the second quarter. Fullcircle Wealth LLC now owns 13,097 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,206,000 after acquiring an additional 111 shares in the last quarter. 71.72% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Citigroup alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Oppenheimer increased their price target on shares of Citigroup from $141.00 to $144.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, January 15th. Zacks Research raised Citigroup from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 22nd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Citigroup in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their price target on shares of Citigroup from $118.00 to $131.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 17th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on shares of Citigroup from $113.00 to $127.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 6th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $125.56. More Citigroup News Here are the key news stories impacting Citigroup this week: Citigroup Price Performance NYSE C opened at $122.72 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63, a current ratio of 1.00 and a quick ratio of 0.99. Citigroup Inc. has a 1-year low of $55.51 and a 1-year high of $124.17. The stock has a market capitalization of $219.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.61, a PEG ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 1.18. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $115.27 and its 200-day moving average price is $104.03. Citigroup (NYSE:C Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 14th. The company reported $1.81 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.65 by $0.16. Citigroup had a net margin of 8.50% and a return on equity of 8.28%. The business had revenue of $19.87 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.99 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.34 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 2.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts predict that Citigroup Inc. will post 7.53 earnings per share for the current year. Citigroup Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 27th. Stockholders of record on Monday, February 2nd will be given a $0.60 dividend. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, February 2nd. Citigroups payout ratio is presently 34.43%. Citigroup Profile (Free Report) Citigroup Inc is a global financial services company headquartered in New York City with roots tracing back to the City Bank of New York, founded in 1812. The modern Citigroup was created through the 1998 merger of Citicorp and Travelers Group and has since operated as a diversified bank holding company that provides a broad range of banking and financial products and services to consumers, corporations, governments and institutions worldwide. Citis principal businesses include retail and commercial banking, credit card and consumer lending products, wealth management and private banking, and a full suite of institutional services. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding C? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Citigroup Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Citigroup and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Suncor Energy Inc. (TSE:SU Get Free Report) (NYSE:SU) has been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the eleven research firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is C$72.79. Several research analysts have commented on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company set a C$57.00 price target on shares of Suncor Energy and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Desjardins boosted their price target on shares of Suncor Energy from C$79.00 to C$85.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday. UBS Group raised their price objective on Suncor Energy from C$61.00 to C$65.00 in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. TD Securities lifted their price objective on Suncor Energy from C$74.00 to C$81.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. Finally, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce increased their target price on Suncor Energy from C$65.00 to C$70.00 in a report on Thursday, November 27th. Get Suncor Energy alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on Suncor Energy Insider Buying and Selling More Suncor Energy News In related news, insider Peter Douglas Zebedee sold 43,364 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$62.53, for a total transaction of C$2,711,550.92. Also, insider Kristopher Peter Smith sold 112,600 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$61.74, for a total transaction of C$6,951,924.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 48,482 shares in the company, valued at approximately C$2,993,278.68. This trade represents a 69.90% decrease in their position. Insiders have sold a total of 164,675 shares of company stock valued at $10,208,871 over the last three months. 0.01% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Here are the key news stories impacting Suncor Energy this week: Positive Sentiment: Suncor beat Q4 expectations and reported record quarterly production despite weak oil prices supports nearterm cash flow and demonstrates operational resilience. Read More. Read More. Suncor beat Q4 expectations and reported record quarterly production despite weak oil prices supports nearterm cash flow and demonstrates operational resilience. Read More. Read More. Positive Sentiment: Multiple brokerages raised targets/ratings notably Desjardins, BMO, National Bank and others lifted targets into the C$7585 range (Desjardins and BMO to C$85, Raymond James to C$76, RBC to C$75). These upgrades and higher targets drive buyside momentum and helped push the shares to a oneyear high. Read More. Read More. Read More. Multiple brokerages raised targets/ratings notably Desjardins, BMO, National Bank and others lifted targets into the C$7585 range (Desjardins and BMO to C$85, Raymond James to C$76, RBC to C$75). These upgrades and higher targets drive buyside momentum and helped push the shares to a oneyear high. Read More. Read More. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: TD Securities commentary flagged upside potential for the shares supportive for sentiment but dependent on oil-price and production execution. Read More. TD Securities commentary flagged upside potential for the shares supportive for sentiment but dependent on oil-price and production execution. Read More. Negative Sentiment: ATB Capital left a lower relative view (price target C$71, sector perform), implying limited nearterm upside versus peers a cautionary datapoint amid the upbeat upgrades. Read More. Suncor Energy Price Performance SU opened at C$73.46 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 1.59, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 33.35. The stock has a market capitalization of C$87.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.15, a PEG ratio of 0.15 and a beta of 0.89. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of C$64.57 and a 200-day moving average price of C$59.69. Suncor Energy has a 12-month low of C$43.59 and a 12-month high of C$75.50. Suncor Energy (TSE:SU Get Free Report) (NYSE:SU) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 3rd. The company reported C$1.10 earnings per share for the quarter. Suncor Energy had a return on equity of 18.10% and a net margin of 15.15%. Equities analysts predict that Suncor Energy will post 4.4208333 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Suncor Energy Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 24th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 24th were issued a $0.60 dividend. This is a positive change from Suncor Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.57. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.3%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 3rd. Suncor Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 47.63%. Suncor Energy Company Profile (Get Free Report) Suncor Energy Inc is an integrated energy company. The companys operations include oil sands development, production and upgrading, offshore oil and gas, petroleum refining in Canada and the U.S. and the companys PetroCanada retail and wholesale distribution networks. The company is developing petroleum resources while advancing the transition to a low-emissions future through investment in power, renewable fuels and hydrogen. It also conducts energy trading activities focused principally on the marketing and trading of crude oil, natural gas, byproducts, refined products and power. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Suncor Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Suncor Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of Montreal (TSE:BMO Get Free Report) (NYSE:BMO) had its price objective hoisted by equities researchers at TD Securities from C$209.00 to C$219.00 in a research note issued to investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. TD Securities price target indicates a potential upside of 12.26% from the companys previous close. A number of other equities analysts have also recently issued reports on the stock. Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Bank of Montreal from C$177.00 to C$181.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, December 5th. Raymond James Financial lifted their price objective on Bank of Montreal from C$182.00 to C$183.00 in a research report on Monday, December 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their target price on Bank of Montreal from C$163.00 to C$178.00 in a research note on Friday, December 5th. Scotiabank increased their target price on Bank of Montreal from C$187.00 to C$191.00 in a report on Friday, January 9th. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group raised their price target on Bank of Montreal from C$192.00 to C$201.00 in a research report on Friday, December 5th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Bank of Montreal currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$186.50. Get Bank of Montreal alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Bank of Montreal Bank of Montreal Stock Up 0.8% TSE BMO traded up C$1.60 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting C$195.08. The stock had a trading volume of 2,033,630 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,118,587. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of C$183.06 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$174.87. The company has a market cap of C$138.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.05, a P/E/G ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.38. Bank of Montreal has a 52-week low of C$121.31 and a 52-week high of C$195.24. Bank of Montreal (TSE:BMO Get Free Report) (NYSE:BMO) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, December 4th. The bank reported C$3.28 earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of C$9.34 billion for the quarter. Bank of Montreal had a return on equity of 9.04% and a net margin of 13.57%. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Bank of Montreal will post 9.6514585 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. About Bank of Montreal (Get Free Report) Bank of Montreal is a diversified financial-services provider based in North America, operating four business segments: Canadian personal and commercial banking, U.S. P&C banking, wealth management, and capital markets. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Montreal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Montreal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Telefonica Brasil S.A. (NYSE:VIV Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $15.02 and last traded at $15.0430, with a volume of 70699 shares. The stock had previously closed at $14.92. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Telefonica Brasil from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a report on Friday, January 23rd. Barclays restated an overweight rating and set a $14.50 target price on shares of Telefonica Brasil in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Bank of America initiated coverage on Telefonica Brasil in a report on Thursday, December 11th. They issued an underperform rating and a $14.00 price target for the company. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Telefonica Brasil from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Sunday, January 11th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Telefonica Brasil currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $13.12. Get Telefonica Brasil alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on VIV Telefonica Brasil Stock Performance The stock has a market cap of $24.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.92, a P/E/G ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 0.71. The firms 50-day moving average is $12.72 and its two-hundred day moving average is $12.49. The company has a current ratio of 1.02, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. Telefonica Brasil (NYSE:VIV Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 14th. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.11 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $2.81 billion during the quarter. Telefonica Brasil had a return on equity of 8.67% and a net margin of 10.37%. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Telefonica Brasil S.A. will post 0.6 earnings per share for the current year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Telefonica Brasil Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in VIV. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its stake in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 337.7% in the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 4,233 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 3,266 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in Telefonica Brasil in the 1st quarter valued at about $52,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Telefonica Brasil by 214.0% in the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 4,766 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $54,000 after purchasing an additional 3,248 shares in the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 45.7% during the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 5,163 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $59,000 after purchasing an additional 1,619 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Westfuller Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Telefonica Brasil in the third quarter valued at approximately $59,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 5.16% of the companys stock. About Telefonica Brasil (Get Free Report) Telefonica Brasil SA, commonly marketed under the Vivo brand, is one of Brazils largest telecommunications providers, offering a broad range of consumer and enterprise communications services. The companys core activities include mobile voice and data services, fixed-line telephony, broadband internet (including fiber-to-the-home), and pay-TV solutions. It also provides ICT and managed services for business customers, such as cloud, data center, connectivity, Internet of Things (IoT) and security solutions. Vivo operates a nationwide network across Brazil and serves both individual consumers and corporate clients. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Telefonica Brasil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Telefonica Brasil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Tenaz Energy Corp. (TSE:TNZ Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$42.14 and last traded at C$42.14, with a volume of 41408 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$40.96. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Separately, National Bankshares lifted their target price on Tenaz Energy from C$52.00 to C$66.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of C$66.00. Get Tenaz Energy alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on Tenaz Energy Tenaz Energy Price Performance The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$29.02 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$25.07. The company has a current ratio of 1.43, a quick ratio of 2.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.56. The stock has a market capitalization of C$1.34 billion, a PE ratio of 6.81 and a beta of 1.72. Tenaz Energy (TSE:TNZ Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported C$0.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The business had revenue of C$93.78 million for the quarter. Tenaz Energy had a return on equity of 1.90% and a net margin of 2.83%. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Tenaz Energy Corp. will post 0.3896418 earnings per share for the current year. About Tenaz Energy (Get Free Report) Tenaz Energy Corp. (TSX:TNZ) is a public energy company focused on the acquisition and sustainable development of international oil and gas assets capable of returning free cash flow to shareholders.Tenaz has domestic operations in Canada along with offshore gas assets in the Netherlands. The domestic operations consist of a semi-conventional oil project in the Rex member of the Upper Mannville group at Leduc-Woodbend in central Alberta. The Netherlands gas assets are located in the Dutch sector of the North Sea. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Tenaz Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tenaz Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Transdigm Group Incorporated (NYSE:TDG Get Free Report) CEO Michael Lisman bought 950 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, February 6th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $1,284.26 per share, with a total value of $1,220,047.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the chief executive officer owned 3,259 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,185,403.34. This represents a 41.14% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Michael Lisman also recently made the following trade(s): Get Transdigm Group alerts: On Friday, November 14th, Michael Lisman bought 1,954 shares of Transdigm Group stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of $1,339.14 per share, for a total transaction of $2,616,679.56. Transdigm Group Price Performance Shares of TDG stock traded up $15.92 on Monday, hitting $1,301.45. The stock had a trading volume of 432,800 shares, compared to its average volume of 415,675. Transdigm Group Incorporated has a 12-month low of $1,183.60 and a 12-month high of $1,623.82. The business has a 50 day moving average of $1,354.51 and a 200 day moving average of $1,352.87. The stock has a market cap of $73.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.87, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.84 and a beta of 0.92. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Transdigm Group ( NYSE:TDG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 3rd. The aerospace company reported $8.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $7.99 by $0.24. Transdigm Group had a negative return on equity of 29.07% and a net margin of 20.50%.The business had revenue of $2.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.26 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $7.83 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 13.9% on a year-over-year basis. Transdigm Group has set its FY 2026 guidance at 37.420-39.340 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Transdigm Group Incorporated will post 35.13 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Several research analysts have recently commented on the company. KeyCorp downgraded Transdigm Group from an overweight rating to a sector weight rating in a research note on Thursday. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their price target on Transdigm Group from $1,385.00 to $1,400.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, November 13th. UBS Group reduced their target price on Transdigm Group from $1,804.00 to $1,800.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. Robert W. Baird reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $1,400.00 price target on shares of Transdigm Group in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. Finally, BNP Paribas Exane began coverage on Transdigm Group in a research report on Tuesday, November 18th. They set an outperform rating and a $1,775.00 target price for the company. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Transdigm Group has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $1,584.44. View Our Latest Report on TDG Institutional Inflows and Outflows Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Transdigm Group in the second quarter worth approximately $1,275,035,000. Principal Financial Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Transdigm Group by 18.3% in the third quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 2,379,816 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $3,136,719,000 after purchasing an additional 367,756 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Transdigm Group by 5.3% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 6,693,889 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $10,178,995,000 after purchasing an additional 333,965 shares during the period. Franklin Resources Inc. lifted its position in shares of Transdigm Group by 161.7% during the 3rd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 475,489 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $626,704,000 after purchasing an additional 293,821 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital International Investors lifted its position in shares of Transdigm Group by 4.1% during the 3rd quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 6,489,193 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $8,552,028,000 after purchasing an additional 254,750 shares during the last quarter. 95.78% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Transdigm Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) TransDigm Group Incorporated is a designer, producer and supplier of engineered aircraft components and systems for commercial and military aerospace applications. The companys product portfolio covers a broad range of mission-critical parts and subsystems, including mechanical and electromechanical components, ignition and fuel system parts, sensors and actuators, cockpit and cabin systems, and other safety-critical hardware. TransDigm supplies original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as well as the aftermarket, providing spare parts, repair and overhaul services and component support throughout an assets life cycle. TransDigms operating model places emphasis on proprietary, niche components that are difficult to replace, and the company operates through a collection of independently run subsidiaries and brands that sell specialized products. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Transdigm Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Transdigm Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen cut shares of WPP (NYSE:WPP Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report released on Sunday. A number of other research analysts have also weighed in on WPP. Zacks Research upgraded shares of WPP from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, December 29th. Citigroup began coverage on WPP in a report on Monday, January 12th. They issued a neutral rating for the company. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of WPP in a research note on Wednesday, January 21st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Reduce. Get WPP alerts: View Our Latest Report on WPP WPP Trading Up 5.4% Hedge Funds Weigh In On WPP WPP opened at $18.45 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $21.35 and a 200-day moving average price of $23.07. WPP has a twelve month low of $17.25 and a twelve month high of $49.12. A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in WPP. Jane Street Group LLC boosted its position in shares of WPP by 49.0% during the 1st quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 66,463 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $2,523,000 after acquiring an additional 21,866 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE raised its stake in WPP by 27.0% in the second quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 16,735 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $586,000 after purchasing an additional 3,560 shares in the last quarter. Blue Trust Inc. lifted its position in WPP by 41.9% during the second quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,990 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $70,000 after purchasing an additional 588 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC grew its stake in WPP by 18.7% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 12,608 shares of the business services providers stock worth $441,000 after buying an additional 1,990 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Meritage Portfolio Management increased its holdings in shares of WPP by 17.9% in the 2nd quarter. Meritage Portfolio Management now owns 102,647 shares of the business services providers stock worth $3,594,000 after buying an additional 15,565 shares during the last quarter. 4.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. WPP Company Profile (Get Free Report) WPP plc (NYSE: WPP) is a British multinational advertising and public relations company headquartered in London, England. Recognized as one of the worlds largest communications services groups, WPP provides a wide array of marketing, advertising, media investment management and data consultancy services. Through its integrated network of agenciesamong them Ogilvy, Grey, GroupM and Wavemakerthe company delivers creative content, brand strategy, digital transformation and media planning solutions to clients across virtually every industry. Established in 1971 by Martin Sorrell as Wire and Plastic Products, the firm underwent a strategic transformation in the 1980s, focusing on acquisitions that expanded its capabilities into advertising and communications. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for WPP Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WPP and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Since last November, Barcelonas Sagrada Familia has been the tallest church in the world. A few months earlier, in August, it had become the tallest building in the city. But Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi did not want a human work to surpass a creation of nature a work of God, he said. And so the project approaches its maximum height without exceeding Montjuic mountain, which stands at 173 meters. At 85 meters up, David, a French stonemason, is giving the final touches to a piece that will form part of the bridge linking the Tower of Jesus with that of the evangelist Luke. The stone hangs from the crane operated by Jose Encina, who works from a cabin at 140 meters. The general foreman of the temples construction is Jaume Oromi, the conductor of an orchestra of about 150 workers, who likes to describe himself as a master builder. Wearing a hard hat, work jeans, and a shortsleeved shirt on a Tuesday in February, he walks the site every day from the materials yard at street level to the crane access bridge at 131 meters moving through elevators, hoists, stairways, openings that will become stainedglass windows, interior and exterior scaffolding, and walkways. He ensures everything is in order and safe. All this take place while dealing with the unusual reality of building a monument that is open to the public: We always have the visitors below us. The completion date for the Tower of Jesus the central and tallest tower of the temple envisioned by Gaudi, rising to 172.5 meters is drawing near. It will be finished in a matter of weeks. After that, the scaffolding surrounding it a custombuilt structure designed to withstand strong winds will have to be removed. The tower will be inaugurated on June 10, the centenary of the architects death, a commemoration for which the Construction Board has invited Pope Leo XIV. In 2024, the most recent year for which data has been published, the Sagrada Familia received 4.8 million visitors. It generated around 134 million ($160 million) in revenue, all from private sources, and 52% of that amount was allocated to construction work. Unlike most buildings, over more than 140 years of construction the Sagrada Familia has not risen continuously upward, but has been built in phases. Before his death, Gaudi had advanced the Nativity facade considerably and completed the Tower of Barnabas, so that part of the temple could be shown and donations would continue to flow. A century later, the complex is now almost fully completed in height: the basilica, the Nativity and Passion facades (with sculptures by Josep Maria Subirachs), the towers to the apostles, the towers to the four evangelists, the Tower of Virgin Mary (inaugurated in 2021), and nearly finished the Tower of Jesus. The largest crane at the Sagrada Familia construction site, with the Tower of Jesus in the background. Massimiliano Minocri What will remain is finishing the interior of this tower which will be open to visitors in the future the Chapel of the Assumption, the roofs where two of the three cranes currently stand, a sacristy, and also the Glory facade (with its chapels). The latter is the subject of public and political controversy, because the Construction Board is determined to build an access staircase that would require demolishing residential buildings. The mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, argues that if residents must be relocated, the Board should bear the cost. At the site, 54 meters up, at the base of the crane that reaches 200 meters when its arms are fully extended, several workers are focused on the upper piece of the cross atop the Tower of Jesus. They are installing interior marble or glass in one of its openings. In total, the cross is made up of 15,000 ceramic pieces, produced from 500 different molds and seven shades of white. At the very top, there is a lightning rod and a beacon light for signaling. Much higher, at 131 meters, the crane is connected by a bridge to a giant metal ring a brace that anchors it to the inside of the central tower. Vertigo is not your friend at this height. The crane operator, Jose Encina, waves from behind the cabins glass. On this site, Oromi notes, the three cranes are essential construction elements for lifting materials, auxiliary structures, and architectural pieces, with stone, concrete, and steel being the main materials used. The central crane, a latestgeneration model from the German manufacturer Liebherr, never stops. Its monitoring system (it even has a black box) has recorded movement for seven and a half hours out of the eighthour workday. At the Sagrada Familia, the operations that allow the work to move forward are crucial. In fact, when Jaume Oromi is asked about difficult or delicate moments, he immediately recalls the assembly of the base of the supercrane: they had to lift a 25meter piece, suspended horizontally, threading it between the alreadybuilt towers. They spent days calculating the maneuver to anticipate any unforeseen issue. These are moments that never make the news, he says, but they require dozens of professionals, including climbers. The general foreman also remembers Storm Gloria in 2020, when fierce winds made the scaffolding whistle. Oromi takes pride in mastering the trade in the broadest sense. He likes to say he was an altar boy before becoming a friar. At 14, he helped his father as a laborer, at 17 he was working as a bricklayer, later he became a builder, and at 36 he studied architecture. My children say this is the cherry on the cake. And its true that the Sagrada Familia is a unique project, given its significance, but I like to think they all are, because we are entrusted with the confidence of those who commission them, he says early in the morning in the materials yard. His days begin with a sweep through the entire site, checking that everything is in order and that all safety measures are being followed. The temple employs its own staff as well as workers from companies hired for specific tasks. Logistics are key in such a complex project, with only two yards available to store materials whether sculptures, stone, gas heaters for the basilica, or umbrellas to shelter tourists. And no matter how much planning is done, a windy or rainy day can force a change of plans. Another important thing is making sure everything happens with as little conflict as possible. Managing human relationships so that things run smoothly and with minimal friction is essential, even if it doesnt show up in reports, he emphasizes, with the calm demeanor of someone who seems unlikely to ever lose his temper. This Tuesday, in the materials yard, he checks that the team is ready to receive a large metal structure being transported by a truck whose arrival will require stopping traffic for a few minutes. He can recognize workers just by seeing their backs as they walk away. The site manager of the Sagrada Familia, Jaume Oromi. Massimiliano Minocri Oromi, the man in charge of coordinating all the teams, is the kind who, even while speaking with someone, never loses track of whats happening around him: whos walking by, whats going up, whats coming down, whats moving. That was just a pencil falling, he explains when a small thud is heard. The Sagrada Familia also has the particularity of being under construction while up to 1,500 people visit it at the same time. It makes us extremely aware of safety: the visitors, the fact that there are so many people around, and even of what happens outside the fences, with cranes moving hundreds of tons. In addition to the paying visitors, about 18 million tourists come each year just to see it from the outside 50,000 a day, according to the Barcelona City Council. Oromi is 54, and estimates from the Construction Board point to at least another decade of work. He would already be old enough to retire, but he doesnt consider it in the strict sense. He insists on the seriousness, rigor, and utmost responsibility with which the project is carried out a team effort, where you need trust in the crews and perspective, the ability to see the whole tree. In the future, and for fun, he plans to pursue a doctorate in structures. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The National Health Insurance Authority says growth has outpaced funding. The FNM says its proof the government doesnt have the money. Meanwhile, providers report delayed payments and patients depend on the system every day. You voted: In Huitzo, Oaxaca, two experts explore the intricacies of the Tomb of the Owl, one of the most important discoveries in Mexican archaeology of the last decade It was 2019. On the hills of La Cantera, in the central valleys of Oaxaca, in southern Mexico, lay a massive stone and stucco tomb, hidden underground. It had stood there for hundreds of years, untouched by progress, the world and its vicissitudes It coexisted with roots and insects, especially with tiny winged ants that gnawed through the soft stone, explains the archaeologist Cira Martinez of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). Until one day, looters showed up. They made a hole at the top, pierced the roof, and went inside, Martinez recounts. Ironically, this was the beginning of the discovery of the Zapotec Tomb of the Owl, one of the most important archaeological findings in Mexico in the last 10 years. A copal tree marked the spot, but experts only learned that later, when they finally found it: it took them six years to locate the tomb, a journey interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Cerro de la Cantera and its sister hill, Cerro de la Campana, were part of one of the many archaeological zones in the central valleys of Oaxaca, home, a millennium and a half ago, to the great Zapotec civilization, one of the oldest in Mesoamerica, predating the Aztecs and contemporary with some Mayan cities. Since the late 20th century, the INAH had been excavating the acropolis of the old city that once stood there, as Martinez explains, the temples, the ball court, but hadnt had time to explore the rest of the ancient city, which covered a total of about six square kilometers. While they waited, the looters saw an opportunity. Its unknown what they took or what they did with it. Nor is it known how they found the tomb. Since the INAH received the tip in 2019 the report only stated that a tomb was being looted in Huitzo, the current name of the town Martinez and other colleagues set about locating it. It was like finding a needle in a haystack, until one day, years later, the search party, made up of archaeologists, restorers, local residents, and council members, encountered a shepherd. They asked him if he knew anything, and the shepherd pointed to the copal tree. Thats where it was, he said, on the hill. Cira Martinez and other colleagues climbed up and, indeed, found something strange. The earth had been disturbed, mixed with fragments of pottery, paint, and stucco, she recalls. The site contains symbolic representations associated with power and death, as well as friezes and tombstones with calendrical inscriptions. Luis Gerardo Pena Torres / INAH (Luis Gerardo Pena Torres / INAH) That was in February of last year. After digging for a while, the archaeologists found the tomb, its roof covered with a wooden plank left behind by the looters. When they removed it, they glimpsed for the first time the distant past, as though going through an interdimensional portal typical of science fiction films, their legs in the 21st century and their face in the 7th, all emotion and smiles in a bygone darkness. In just one week, a team of archaeologists, restorers, masons, and architects from the INAH excavated the entire structure. They discovered it was quite large, more than five and a half meters long, between one and a half and almost three meters wide, and with a gradually increasing height, from 1.60 meters to 2.60 meters. The interior still displayed fragments of mural paintings, undoubtedly depicting the stories of those buried there. But the most impressive find appeared at the entrance. Above the tombs doorway, archaeologists discovered a mask in the shape of an owl, superimposed on the face of a human figure. The mask, made of stucco, was remarkably well-preserved. Martinez was reminded of another mask found in Zapotec tombs south of the valleys, in an area known as Lambityeco. Unlike the short time it took to excavate the tomb, a team of more than 10 specialists spent months unearthing the mask, working inch by inch with the care one would give to a newborn. The gate of Monte Alban In one of the fundamental books on the Zapotec people, aptly titled The Zapotec Civilization, Joy Marcus and Kent Flannery note that when lords or royal consorts died, they were often venerated as beings who could intercede on behalf of their people before the great supernatural forces. Indeed, they wrote, it was believed that deceased rulers transformed into clouds, and even today some Zapotec speakers refer to their ancestors as binigulaza, or old people of the clouds. To keep them close, families buried their loved ones at home, in a tomb beneath the courtyard, especially the heads of the family, thus ensuring a continuous connection with the divine. The Tomb of the Owl is thus understood as a space of connection between an old Zapotec family likely that of a neighborhood chief, says Martinez and the gods and forces of nature. In the central valleys of Oaxaca, the Zapotec people left dozens of examples like this, with their stucco sculptures. Archaeologist Nelly Robes, who directed the Monte Alban Archaeological Zone, the ancient Zapotec capital, points out that the masks or effigies on the facades of the tombs at Huitzo originated in Monte Alban, where the effigies of Tomb 104 and Tomb 1 of San Pedro Ixtlahuaca are found. Robles also highlights the mural paintings found in the Tomb of the Owl, which are still under study. The mural painting tradition began in the central city from 0 to 200 CE, with a clear Teotihuacan influence, she says, referring to the great city in the Valley of Mexico, predecessor of the Mexica city of Tenochtitlan and contemporary with Monte Alban. Both artistic traditions sculpture on friezes and facades and mural painting in funerary contexts constitute a Zapotec style that reached its peak in the Late Period, and examples of this can be found at a significant number of sites, including tombs 104 and 105 at Monte Alban, tomb 242 at Atzompa, the tombs at Yagul, and those at Lambityeco, tomb 6, and mounds 190 and 193, to name just a few, she adds. The owl's beak covers the face of a Zapotec lord, possibly a portrait of the ancestor to whom the tomb was dedicated. Luis Gerardo Pena Torres / INAH (Luis Gerardo Pena Torres / INAH) The Tomb of the Owl neighborhood was part of old Huitzo, a village within the sphere of influence of a larger settlement, San Jose El Mogote, both tributaries of Monte Alban. Because of its location, Huitzo was very important because it closed off the Etla Valley, says archaeologist Martinez, referring to one of the three central valleys of Oaxaca, the northernmost. It was on the border between the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Its position was strategic, she adds, referring to another of the regions rival groups. The political relationship between Monte Alban and these kingdoms was one of codependency and tribute from the surrounding areas to the city, Robles explains. It was a relationship of likely constant demands that, ultimately, fostered the political tensions that contributed to the abandonment of Monte Alban between 850 and 800 CE, she adds. It remains unclear what caused the decline of Monte Alban, just as with Teotihuacan in the north, or with some Mayan city-states. Mystery surrounds its fall. The discovery of the Tomb of the Owl, which the INAH calls Tomb 10 Huitzo, and future interpretations of the mural paintings inside could shed some light on the myth. The mask of the owl, an animal associated with the night and with power, thus becomes a must-see for lovers of antiquity, drawing a line from north to south through the valleys, with Monte Alban and Mitla, the Zapotec Vatican, in between. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition On October 14, 2024, during a march in Havana against the Israeli occupation of Gaza, television cameras showed Alejandro Castro Espin for the first time in almost seven years. For many Cubans, it was like seeing a ghost. Castro Espin seemed to be in disguise. He wasnt wearing his classic military uniform, with the rank insignia of colonel emblazoned on the shoulders, but rather sunglasses, ordinary trousers, a black T-shirt, and a small Palestinian flag in his hand. Until that moment, people said he had been put on pajama plan, a Cuban euphemism used when a member of the Castro elite is removed from their posts and forced to stay at home something like a secret early retirement. Raul Castros only son had been attributed contradictory responsibilities: first helping to bring about, and then helping to destroy, the normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States. That day, Alejandro appeared in the second row of the event, just behind the new wave of supposed technocrats who, with Miguel DiazCanel at the helm, at least formally took power on the island in 2018, when Raul Castro stepped aside and his son was pushed aside with him. But now, two years after that brief and surprising appearance, rumors are circulating in Cuba that he is back. The events in Venezuela since the U.S. capture of Nicolas Maduro on January 3 and the recent measures adopted by U.S. President Donald Trump to deliver the final blow to the Cuban regime by cutting off its fuel supplies have pushed Havana to put the possibility of a dialogue with Washington back on the table. But, contrary to what Trump has said, the Cuban government denies that such talks are taking place. Even so, in the streets of Cuba and in several media outlets, comments have been pointing in another direction for days. If true, the Castro leadership may have dusted off its prince to negotiate and save it. As with almost every member of the hermetic Castro family, what is known about the life of Alejandro Castro Espin comes more from rumor than from verifiable facts. But there are some certainties. It is known, for example, that he was born in 1965 and studied refrigeration engineering on the island before going to the USSR for military training, making him the only direct descendant of the Castro brothers to pursue a career in the Armed Forces. He later joined the Cuban troops operating in the Angolan war, and although there is no evidence of his participation on the front lines, the famous anecdote persists that during military exercises he suffered an accident that injured one of his eyes, leaving him partially blind. That is why Cubans especially the dissidents call him El Tuerto, the OneEyed Man. In 2008, when Raul Castro succeeded his brother, Colonel Alejandro Castro quietly stepped into public life and showed he was not just any military officer. In a way, he could be described as an organic intellectual of the regime, but in uniform: he wrote articles for official media, presented himself as a political scientist and a masters graduate in International Relations, and authored books on international politics (such as Empire of Terror and United States: The Price of Power), focused on the history of imperialist predation by U.S. elites. He also gave interviews to outlets like RT and Al Mayadeen and presented his books in Russia, Greece, and several Arab countries, always with his characteristic lisp and an eloquence greater than his fathers, though far below that of his uncle. The start of his golden era, however, did not arrive until late 2014, when Barack Obama and Raul Castro announced the normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States. Shortly after the announcement, Alejandro Castro revealed himself to be more than a nepobaby with intellectual aspirations: he had not only been the architect of the rapprochement with Washington and the handler of the secret talks that led to the socalled thaw, but he also became his fathers adviser, a member of the National Security Commission, and the director of intelligence and counterintelligence for State Security. Publicly, his discourse was aligned with the official line: Cuba has always expressed its willingness to talk [with the United States] on equal terms, but the historical moment made it possible now, he said in a 2015 interview. And also: Cuba will not return to capitalism. Even so, his reputation as a behindthescenes power broker and skilled negotiator grew among Cubans, especially after he invited John Brennan, then CIA director, to Havana in 2015. It was not unreasonable to think he would become a key figure in the postCastro era someone less rigid and more pragmatic than his elders. But that rise was followed by a spectacular fall. The restoration of relations with the United States was in danger from the start, and there was much speculation about the existence of a hardline core of Castro officials who preferred to maintain the rhetoric of confrontation. Who belonged to that group and how they acted are things still not fully known, but what is clear is that the reforms Cuba had promised were far slower than expected. To make matters worse, in 2017 Obama was replaced in the Oval Office by Trump, and nothing guaranteed that the Republican would preserve the Democrats legacy. And it was then, at the worst possible moment, that the Havana Syndrome scandal erupted a series of alleged sonic attacks against U.S. and Canadian diplomats on the island. According to an investigation by journalists Adam Entousy and Jon Lee Anderson published in The New Yorker, and another conducted jointly by The Insider, Der Spiegel, and 60 Minutes (CBS), the Kremlins intelligence services were behind the attacks. In Havana, however, as the Castro regime blamed Alejandro Castro. While some speculate that he was punished for negligence (almost nothing happens in Cuba without State Security knowing about it), others believe he was complicit. It is difficult to imagine the latter, since it would be contradictory for him to intentionally destroy something he had helped build carefully and in secret. Even so, the colonels closeness to Putins Russia is well known; he traveled there at least twice between 2014 and 2017 to finalize cooperation agreements on intelligence and security. Nearly eight years later, there is still no official version of events, yet there are those who believe that Alejandro Castro, El Tuerto, should trade his pajamas for his uniform and return to the negotiating arena if he isnt already doing so. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Dr Palin honoured as Torch Bearer of Quality Healthcare in NE India | Imphal, Feb 9 : Shija Hospitals & Research Institute Pvt Ltd has announced that Dr Palin Khundongbam, Chairman and Managing Director, was honoured as the Torch Bearer of Quality Healthcare in North East India. The recognition was presented on February 7, 2026, at the inaugural North East Quality Conclave 2026, held at the NEDFi Convention Centre in Guwahati. The conclave was a collaborative effort, organised by GNRC Hospitals in partnership with the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations (CAHO) and the Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) North East Chapter. The event also acknowledged other distinguished contributors to the region's healthcare sector, including Dr Narendra Nath Dutta of Downtown Hospital, Guwahati; Dr Harsha Bhattacharjee of Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya, Guwahati; and Prof Subhash Khanna of Swagat Hospitals Pvt Ltd. Shija Hospitals has consistently prioritized quality and patient safety, being the first hospital in the state to receive ISO certification in 2006. The institution achieved full NABH accreditation on July 13, 2023. Both the Shija Blood Center and its laboratory hold further accreditations from NABH and NABL, respectively. In his address, Dr Palin emphasized that quality prioritization leads to a measurable reduction in avoidable medical errors, public grievances, and litigation. Dr Palin serves as the North East Regional Lead for the Health and Environment Leadership Platform (HELP), advocating for environmentally sustainable healthcare practices. According to the investigation, the president received nearly $3.3 million from companies linked to the Alba Petroleos consortium El Salvadors attorney general and trusted ally of President Nayib Bukele, Rodolfo Delgado, has frozen a moneylaundering investigation into Alba Petroleos de El Salvador, a company financed with Venezuelan government funds whose operations extend to bank accounts linked to the president. Documents from the Attorney Generals Office show that Bukele received roughly $3.3 million both personally and through three companies belonging to his family group originating from Venezuelan oil money. Two former prosecutors with direct knowledge of the case say that, as of December, there had been no progress in the investigation. Not a single sheet of paper has moved in that file since Delgado arrived at the Attorney Generals Office. The outcome of that investigation is not convenient for him or for the president, one of them said under condition of anonymity. Venezuelas attorney general, Tarek William Saab, has also remained silent, declining to comment when contacted by this newspaper. The Attorney Generals Office of El Salvador also did not respond to requests for information. Since Bukele came to power and appointed Delgado to lead the Attorney Generals Office, the moneylaundering investigation that implicates the president has been at a standstill. The case was opened in 2019 by thenattorney general Raul Melara, who was investigating Bukeles administration for alleged corruption and supposed pacts with the MS13 and Barrio 18 gangs. Melara was removed from office on May 1, 2021, the same day the ruling party took full control of the Legislative Assembly, preventing the investigation from moving forward to the courts. That day, lawmakers aligned with Bukele also dismissed the justices of the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court and appointed five replacements loyal to the executive branch. Alba Petroleos de El Salvador is a mixedeconomy company founded in 2006 by a group of municipalities and run by leaders of the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN), the leftwing party allied with the Venezuelan government in the country. Sixty percent of its shares belong to PDV Caribe S.A., a subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), the Venezuelan state oil company and the projects main source of funding. On May 31, 2019, one day before Bukele took office, the Attorney Generals Office under Melara raided the offices of Alba Petroleos El Salvador SEM and 27 other companies linked to the Alba group, including Alba Alimentos S.A., Alba Gas S.A., and Inversiones Valiosas S.A. (Inverval), a firm supposedly dedicated to financing realestate projects. Three months after Bukele took office, in September of that year, the Salvadoran outlet Revista Factum revealed based on documents seized by the Attorney Generals Office as part of a possible moneylaundering investigation that in 2013 the nowpresident received $1.9 million from Inverval in his own name and another $1.4 million in the name of two of his familyowned companies: Starlight and Obermet. Bukele responded to the report by saying the money came from the sale of a familyowned television channel called TVX. We sold it to a company. That company is now under investigation and it turns out it received money from Alba Petroleos, but honestly, what company didnt receive money from Alba Petroleos? Bukele quipped after the revelation. At the time he received those funds, Bukele was beginning his political career under the banner of the FMLN. He wore red and sang The Internationale at public events. He was mayor of Nuevo Cuscatlan, a municipality of just six square miles less than five times the size of Central Park in New York considered one of the countrys strongest generators of revenue and investment. He also owned several companies, including the advertising firm Obermet S.A. de C.V. and Starlight, which operated Channel 23, a free-to-air television channel known as TVX. Inverval, however, was not a small-time player within the Alba network. According to Factums investigation, it was one of the conglomerates key companies, and in 2013 the year it was founded and the same year it issued checks to Bukele and his companies 70% of its income came from Venezuelan funds. Whats more, Bukele also did not sell the entire channel, but only a portion of it. After selling 60% of Starlights shares to Inverval, TVX came under the direction of trusted figures close to both Bukele and Alba, among them Jose Luis Merino a former guerrilla commander, FMLN leader, later investigated in the United States for arms trafficking and money laundering, and one of the main figures behind the Alba conglomerate. The origins of Alba Petroleos trace back to the Petrocaribe agreement, a cooperation mechanism created to facilitate the supply of Venezuelan oil to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, including Cuba and Daniel Ortegas Nicaragua. The project was launched in 2005 by thenpresident Hugo Chavez, as part of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA), promoted a year earlier by Cuba and Venezuela. Oil flowed from Venezuela to Alba Petroleos de El Salvador, which then outsourced profits to companies with no real capacity to repay or funneled them through shell corporations created in tax havens, ultimately returning the funds now laundered to individuals linked to the Salvadoran left, according to journalistic investigations. Attorney General Delgados connection to Alba Petroleos and to funds of Venezuelan origin is even more direct. An official document from the Constitutional Chamber, accessed by this newspaper, confirms that Delgado worked as legal representative for Alba Petroleos and attempted to halt the investigation. The document corresponds to the response to amparo petition 4332019, filed by Delgado and two other attorneys in their capacity as legal representatives of Alba Petroleos de El Salvador SEM, in which they requested that the raids carried out in June 2019 be dismissed. Their central argument was that the Attorney Generals Office could have requested the documentation without resorting to judicial searches. The text was obtained from a massive leak of Supreme Court documents carried out by a group of hackers calling themselves Ciberinteligencia SV. Its authenticity was later verified in the institutional repository of the high court. In the ruling, the Supreme Court addresses attorneys Miguel Angel Flores Durel, Jose Luis Orellana Ruano, and Rodolfo Antonio Delgado Montes as legal representatives of Alba. The same document notes that, days earlier, Delgado Montes had submitted his resignation after being appointed attorney general. Flores Durel also resigned after being named a justice of the Constitutional Chamber on the same day. In other words, two lawyers linked to Alba were simultaneously placed in the highest positions of El Salvadors justice system. In August 2021, an investigation by Infobae revealed that Delgado received more than $46,000 from Alba Petroleos in 2019 alone. During his time as a private attorney, Delgado also worked with Jorge Manuel Vega Knight, whom the previous Prosecutors Office accused of being one of MS13s main collaborators in laundering money and assets. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition India reducing its purchase of Russian oil has dealt a heavy blow to Russia. After US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to a trade agreement, Indian oil refiners significantly reduced their purchase of Russian crude oil. New Delhi had accounted for about 38 per cent of Russia's seaborne crude oil exports, according to finam.ru. By March, the imports will reportedly be below 1 million barrels per day, with supply volumes declining to 500,000-600,000 barrels per day. In 2025, the average was about 1.7 million barrels per day. Russian media reported that India had begun to adopt more stringent policies regarding unauthorised crude oil exports. On February 7th, the Indian Coast Guard arrested 3 crude oil tankers coming from Iran. One political scientist who spoke to 24.tv said, "We can easily calculate the impact this has on the Russian economy. Furthermore, oil is being sold at steep discounts. While the full details are not being disclosed, the oil company Lukoil has officially requested the Russian authorities to reduce taxes, as the discount is as high as 50%." Russia are reporetdly earning around just $27-$30 per barrel of crude oil. The price is kept as it could impact Russias National Welfare Fund whihc could be depleted within two to 6 months 24.tv reported. "The situation with India has been a serious blow, but China remains the Kremlin's safety net today. The US has so far been unable to reach a constructive agreement with this country on limiting its consumption of Russian raw materials," Igor Chalenko said. Indian oil refiners like Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Reliance Industries have refused to purchase Russian oil in March and April, according to a trader who spoke to Reuters. Russian media speculate that New Delhi may rely on he united states or Venezuela for further oil imports. EU-sanctioned Nayara Energys refinery in Gujarat is currently under threat of being shut down after the trade agreement came into place. Russia's state-run energy company Rosneft holds a major share in Nayara. The refinery is entirely run on Russian oil. Due to this, analysts speculate that this would increase russian politivd. According to Kpler avbout 12 million barrels of Russian oil are currently drifting in Southeast Asia without a buyer. Citing Kpler, Bloomberg reported that about 12 oil tankers carrying the 12 million barrels of Ural crude oil are moving in the Indian ocean. Meanwhile, Chinese independent refineries have seen this as an opportunity. The country has increased their purchase of Ural crude oil, buying about 500,000 barrels per day in January, Polish television channel TVP World reported. However, Chinese buyers often prefer lighter oils like ESPO or Sokol, which are supplied through the Pacific region of Russia. Many Ural-class tankers are still enroute from the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Red Sea to Asia according to vessel tracking data. Many of the tankers list Singapore as their destination, but as demands change, their port of call may also change. All is not well, and not all deals are sewn up yet. As India and the US laboured over and finally reached a deal on tariffs a few days ago, not much attention was paid to another icky tariff trauma that haunts India. Punitive tariffs on Indias exports to Mexico range as high as up to 50%. The lesser-known tariff war that India is still fighting. New Delhi was all caught up in recent months trying to work out US President Trumps vexatious total 50% tariffs after all, the US was Indias biggest trading partner with a total goods and services trade worth over 200 billion dollars (and a target of half a trillion by the end of this decade). But that had meant that another punitive tariff imposition has not only gone relatively less noticed, but still remains to be sorted out. The backgrounder may have more to do with Trumps tirade against the USAs immediate neighbours, Canada and Mexico and sealing the influx of cheap Chinese products through a third country route though it has come to bite Indias own prospects down the value chain. This is because, even before the by-now notorious Liberation Day announcements of April 2, Trump had started aiming his ire at both the land neighbours for their conventional base as a cheaper manufacturing base for products aimed at the USA, as well as trans-shipment of China-made items through them. Arguing that so much of manufacturing, particularly of the automobile sector, was taking place right across the border to the south (Mexico) and north (Canada), was taking away American jobs, Trump had first played around with the thought of cancelling the USMCA or the US-Mexico-Canada trade deal implemented, ironically, by Trump himself during his first presidency in 2019. That time, it was meant to replace the North American FTA which was in force from the early 1990s and which according to Trump then, was the reason why so much of manufacturing and jobs shifted out of mainland USA to the neighbouring countries, because they were cheaper for the big auto companies to make there and use the deal to import the vehicles into US for sale, with a better profit margin. There is some truth in it. Mexico, for example, makes around 40 lakh cars a year. As much as up to 88% of these are exported, primarily to the US. Trump, in his second coming, was having none of it. Trumps blow-hot, blow-cold ire towards his neighbours had seen him first threatening Mexico and Canada with tariffs and then finally stepping back, allowing the provisions of USMCA and letting especially Mexico overcompensate by cracking down on its non-FTA countries. This includes India. According to the Mexican government, the tariffs on India have been increased to boost domestic production, address trade imbalances, and safeguard local employment. But there is more to it than meets the eye. Indian traders allege they have been targeted so that Mexicos own local manufacturing is not tariffed by Trump directly. While Indias trade with Mexico is much lower compared to that with the US, at just over $ 6 billion, it does make a crucial difference in certain areas. Auto components and even automobile exports to that country, for instance, face a duty of 35%. Steel faces the highest tariff at 50%, while garments and ceramics now have to contend with anything from 25% to 35%. This makes Indian exports there uncompetitive on two levels one, the tariff is only on nations with which Mexico doesnt have an FTA deal. Leaving India in quite a disadvantageous position vis-a-vis some of its rivals. Second is the more important one. Read between the lines, it is clear that what Mexico is particularly looking to shut down is the alleged tendency of trans-shipment and supply chain diversion that Indian exporters are alleged to indulge in. Meaning they export to Mexico, but then the parts (or the full product in many cases) finally make their way to the US. For example, automobile components, the export of which from India to Mexico has been spiralling up in recent years and now is nearly a billion dollars. Many Indian bike and car makers had also started looking at Latin American countries as a burgeoning market for Made in India vehicles, considering that the more evolved American and European markets were more difficult to break into. But Mexico definitely does not want to suffer the immediate neighbour USs wrath for the sake of distant India. While Indian trade negotiators have been having their hands full lately there was a flurry of deals worked out, ranging from New Zealand to the EU to finally the US this week, it is not that they have not tried. There was one round of talks in December (after the punitive tariffs on India were announced by Mexico and before they came into effect on New Years Day in 2026), but nothing much apparently came out of it. Amid reports that the Indian Air Force (IAF), which is facing a significant fighter jet shortage, is considering procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, Swedish aerospace and defence major Saab AB made a major pitch to India, offering the creation of the world's most advanced aerospace industry in the country, comprising multi-layered design, production and maintenance as well as induction of fighter jet Gripen E. The pitch included the biggest transfer of technology and offers to make in India. For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India According to the company, powered by GE F414G engine, the E-series of the fighter is for customers with more pronounced threats or wider territories to secure. "Gripen E incorporates cutting-edge technologies, the latest systems, sensors, weapons and pods to ensure combat advantage, delivering air superiority in highly contested environments," the company notes. Mikael Franzen, Chief Marketing Officer, Gripen, and Vice President of Business Area Aeronautics at the Swedish group, claimed that Gripen E is the most modern and cost-effective fighter jet system available currently, reports news agency PTI. He said the induction of this fighter jet into the Indian Air Force will help significantly improve the air power. ALSO READ: Is HAL out of India's fifth-generation fighter jet race? Company clarifies its position on AMCA "In our engagements with the government of India, we have proposed the creation of the world's most advanced aerospace industry, comprising multi-layered design, production and maintenance. The highest availability of any fighter gives an unrivalled combat mass to counter any adversary. Gripen will fit perfectly in IAF together with Rafale and Tejas," PTI quoted Frazen as saying. He said Gripen is the only fighter jet with the ability not only to incorporate new technology without major fleet downtime due to its ability to rapidly qualify and certify new software. He noted that Gripen offers the IAF a unique capability to build, qualify, incorporate and certify their own software without the involvement of the manufacturer. "Saab would be making the biggest transfer of technology and capability in the history of defence aviation, engaging with 300+ of tier 1,2 and 3 companies, including MSMEs. The infusion of industrial capabilities and new technologies makes Gripen a potential stepping stone to bolster India's indigenous fighter projects such as AMCA," he was quoted as saying. He proposed that Saab would be able to deliver aircraft quickly as soon as the third year of the signing of the contract. "There is a blueprint not only to build aircraft, initially out of Sweden and then in India at a rapid pace, but also to build an Indian ecosystem of Indian companies, in parallel. This will also form a regional industrial hub with significant opportunities for export," he added, reports PTI. This approach will empower the IAF to incorporate customised national software and AI in the highly agile platforms at the core of Gripen avionics, which can be rapidly scaled up as greater processing power and AI evolve, he said. Gripen E fighter jets are the talk of the town after Swedish company Saab AB pitched them to the Indian Air Force (IAF) as an option to meet its aerial combat demands. The pitch made by the European defence major to New Delhi reportedly includes the creation of the worlds most advanced aerospace industry in the country, comprising multi-layered design, production, and maintenance, as well as the induction of the Gripen E. FULL REPORT | 'Gripen E will fit perfectly in Indian Air Force together with Rafale and Tejas': Saabs fighter jet pitch to India There is a blueprint not only to build aircraft, initially out of Sweden and then in India at a rapid pace, but also to build an Indian ecosystem of Indian companies in parallel. This will also form a regional industrial hub with significant opportunities for export, Mikael Franzen, Chief Marketing Officer, Gripen, and Vice President of Business Area Aeronautics, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India This approach will empower the IAF to incorporate customised national software and AI into the highly agile platforms at the core of Gripen avionics, which can be rapidly scaled up as greater processing power and AI evolve, said Franzen. To sum up, what is different in the Saab offer is an aircraft that will not only fly far into the future; the Make in India initiative will create a backbone of future aircraft, bringing capability which is currently well outside the envelope of any fighter aircraft, he told the news agency. ALSO READ | Saab's Gripen E fighter jet lets AI to take full control to challenge real pilot in BVR aerial combat trial Here are five things to know about the Gripen E fighter jets that would thrill military and aviation enthusiasts: 1. Specs: The Gripen E has an overall length of 15.2 metres, a wingspan of 8.6 metres, and a maximum take-off weight of 16,500 kilograms. 2. Agility and radar: It has a quick turnaround time, taking ten minutes for air-to-air missions and 20 minutes for air-to-ground missions. The fighter features a Selex ES-05 Raven active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, which is mounted on a swashplate and offers a field of view. 3. Speed: The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of Mach 2 (equal to twice the speed of sound) at high altitude and 1,400 km/h at low altitude. 4. Armament and electronics: The Gripen E is armed with a 27mm Mauser BK27 high-velocity cannon. It has an integrated electronic warfare system for offensive and defensive measures, including real-time signal analysis and countermeasures. 5. Weapon systems: Its air-to-surface weapon capabilities include unguided bombs (Mk82, Mk83, Mk84), laser-guided bombs (GBU-12, GBU-16, GBU-10), and advanced bombs (GBU-49, GBU-39), as well as missiles like the RBS15F ER and AGM-65 Maverick. It can be armed with a variety of air-to-air missiles, including the IRIS-T, Meteor, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and A-Darter. Budget provisions often pass unnoticed unless they alter something fundamentala soldier's trust and morale. The Union Budget proposal to restrict income-tax exemption on disability pensions to Armed Forces personnel invalided out of service is one such change. It may appear technical, even minor, but it quietly unsettles a long-standing understanding between the state and its soldiers; one that recognises service-related disability as a lifelong consequence of military duty and selfless service, not a function of how a career ends. At stake is not merely a tax concession. It is the principle that injury sustained in uniform carries the same moral and legal weight whether a soldier is forced to leave early or perseveres until superannuation. What disability pension was meant to do Disability pension has never been meant to be a welfare benefit or gratuity. The disability pension system in India has consistently been based on a clear understanding that, in case of any disability, the compensation will not be taxed. This principle has been applied regardless of whether the person was invalided out or served to retirement. The Defence Forces, as the most responsible and trusted organisation, have checks and balances in a medical board to most judiciously classify medical disabilities. For this reason, Indias system has historically not distinguished between those invalided out and those who continued to serve despite medical downgrading. The injury, not the exit route, was the relevant factor. Tax exemption flowed from that logic. For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India The budget proposal disrupts this settled continuum. It redefines eligibility not by the nature or severity of disability, but by the manner in which service ends. Military service subjects personnel to life-threatening risks that cannot be emulated in any civilian job: extended service in harsh environments, hypoxia at elevated altitude, physical repetitive stress, noise trauma, psychological stress and the chronic impact of operational preparedness over many decades. The pension is used to compensate for the impairment caused by, or worsened by, such conditions. Judicial interpretation has reinforced it. The Supreme Court, in a series of rulings, held that disabilities manifesting after enlistment carry a presumption of service linkage unless conclusively disproved. The apex court has also emphasised the compensatory character of disability pensions, urging a liberal and purposive construction that reflects the unique risks inherent in military life. An artificial distinction with real consequences Under the new framework, two soldiers with identical injuries, sustained under similar operational conditions, would now face different tax treatment simply because one was invalided out while the other continued to serve. That distinction is not merely arbitrary; it is indefensible. The distinction has nothing to do with medical assessment, degree of impairment, or service attribution, all of which are certified by statutory medical boards. It rests entirely on the mode of retirement, which is based on perception, recommendations and individual preference. Many soldiers continue to serve with disabilities because the organisation needs them to serve both for their experience and expertise. Many disabilities sustained during service tenures, like hearing loss, degenerative joint disease, and hypertension due to stress-related operational conditions and chronic back injuries, result in medical category downgrading rather than invalidity. The organisation provides sheltered appointments, and individuals continue to serve with honour, contributing equally to the cause of national security. This is not a personal choice alone; it is an institutional necessity. To penalise such endurance by withdrawing tax exemption is to invert the incentive structure. It rewards exit over perseverance. A classification the Constitution cannot defend From a constitutional standpoint, the measure is difficult to defend. Article 14 requires that classifications created by the state have a rational nexus to the objective sought. If the objective is fiscal, the mode of retirement bears no logical relationship to it. If the objective is to distinguish severity, the classification fails again, because invalidation is not a reliable proxy for disability magnitude. In practice, the policy affects the majority. Most disability pensioners retire on superannuation, not invalidity. The provision leaves the burden on the veterans with long-term impairment as they go through the process of civilian reintegration, with increased medical expenses, fewer job opportunities, and unequal access to healthcare mechanisms. It is difficult to reconcile this outcome with constitutional fairness or administrative reasonableness. The strategic cost of losing trust The Armed Forces operate under the trust that the system will stand by them and support the interests of people who are willing to serve the institutional interests at the expense of their own sacrifices. Once that trust is destroyed, the consequences are not very noticeable, but lasting. Policies that appear to monetise sacrifice alter behaviour. They promote risk-averse medical reporting, pre-emptive invalidation claims, and a risk-averse culture, which conflict with the operational imperatives. When even the recruitment and retention in some of the combat arms are already strained, it is not a wise strategy to create uncertainty regarding post-retirement security. There are hard lessons in history. Previous conflicts over pensions took decades to resolve in court and left bitter civil-military wounds. The financial gains, where any existed, were marginal. The reputational and morale costs were not. Why the numbers dont add up Supporters of the restriction point to revenue considerations. Yet the numbers do not support the case. The estimated revenue of this measure in terms of tax collection in India is small compared to the total tax collection in India. That should be measured against the administrative cost, the risk of new lawsuits, and the cost that is more difficult to quantify of reduced institutional confidence. Strategic expenditure is not only about hardware and platforms. It includes sustaining the human element of force readiness. It is a global experience that stable and fair veteran benefits enhance recruitment, maintenance, and post-service assimilation, all of which lower the expenses of the state in the long run. What other militaries understand Major military powers do not condition tax treatment of disability compensation on how the service ends. The United States exempts all service-connected disability compensation from taxation. The United Kingdom follows a similar approach under its Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. Australia, Canada, and Israeleach with different force structures and threat environmentsalso maintain uniform treatment based on service attribution alone. These systems are not indulgent. They are pragmatic. They recognise that disability incurred in service does not become less consequential because a soldier managed to complete a career. An error Parliament can still fix The remedy is neither complex nor fiscally destabilising. A simple amendment to the Finance Billrestoring tax exemption for all disability pensions certified as attributable to or aggravated by military service, irrespective of retirement modewould realign policy with constitutional principles, judicial precedent, and strategic logic. More importantly, it would reaffirm the states commitment to those who bore the physical costs of service; quietly, often without complaint, and frequently beyond what duty strictly required. The question this policy ultimately raises At its core, this issue is not about taxation. It is about how a rising power treats those who absorb the physical costs of its security. A nation that seeks strategic stature cannot afford policies that parse sacrifice too finely or reward endurance less than injury-forced exit. Restoring full tax exemption for disability pensions would reaffirm a simple truth: service-related impairment, once certified, deserves uniform recognition. Anything less risks weakening the very foundations upon which military effectiveness and national security ultimately rest. (The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK) When Emanuel Macrons aircraft touches the tarmac at New Delhis airport on Monday (February 16), the French Presidents mind may be more on a massive 3.25 lakh crore fighter aircraft deal rather than the summit on artificial intelligence that he is to attend in the national capital on February 18. Because by that time, the defence minister-headed Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meet, likely to be held on February 12, may have already okayed the likely 114-Rafale fighter deal. For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India The 114 fighters mean an additional six-seven fighter squadrons for the Indian Air Force (IAF), but even that is not enough to adequately equip the force as per the required mandate. Needing to field at least 42 squadrons, the IAF has only about 30 squadronsthe lowest it has operated in decades. The additional requirement of seven-eight squadrons is expected to be filled in by the home-made LCA Tejas aircraft, the rolling-out of which has been plagued by notorious delays. A typical Tejas squadron would comprise 20 aircraft, including four in reserve. The DAC is the apex procurement panel of the defence ministry. Proposals once cleared by the DAC are placed before the prime minister-headed Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the final approval. The DAC is also expected to take up the Indian Navys requirement for more eyes in the sky by giving the green signal to acquire six more P-8I Poseidon, the multi-mission long-range maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft developed by SS-based Boeing Defense, in addition to the existing fleet of 12. Truly the first responder platform that everyone turns to, the versatile maritime surveillance aircraft is deployed for an entire range of operations, from specific counter-insurgency operations to being deployed to keep an eye on submarines of the adversary in the oceans. Having clocked much more than 40,000 mishap-free flight hours, the dozen-odd P-8Is in the Indian Navy have completed more than a decade of deployment with the force. Besides these two critical buys, the DAC may also take up for consideration the issue of indigenously developing marine gas turbine engines for the Indian Navya key requirement if India is to roll out its own warships. Several firms, including the state-owned Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, are understood to have been pursuing efforts to make engines for marine military platforms. The zero option was mooted by Fidel Castro in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union. Without the support of the Soviets, especially regarding oil shipments, Castroism came up with a survival strategy: strict rationing, suspension of public transportation and temporary closure of schools and universities. The strategy was narrowly avoided. But now, three decades later, the zero option has veered back into view as the country teeters on the edge of its worst crisis in recent history. Following the U.S. sanctions on fuel suppliers, the Cuban government has implemented measures similar to those planned back in the 1990s. President Miguel Diaz-Canel asked Cubans for effort and creativity, while acknowledging that he is already in negotiations with Washington. With the threat of military intervention on hold, Donald Trump has dialed up the pressure on a 60-year embargo, which in turn has led to talks and increased uncertainty among the population. For a month now, expectations have been shifting. If the year began with the fear of a replica of the operation that captured Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, by mid-January it seemed that Washington preferred to sit back and wait for Cubas inevitable collapse. Now, negotiations are on the agenda, though the framework remains vague. Early February, Cuban Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio acknowledged the exchange of messages at the highest level. Without there being any formal negotiations as yet, the Cuban Foreign Ministry has been laying the groundwork for some time, according to the statements of both parties. In a statement that took many by surprise, the Foreign Ministry said on February 1 that Cuba is willing to reactivate and expand bilateral cooperation with the United States and proposes to renew technical cooperation in areas that include the fight against terrorism, the prevention of money laundering, the fight against drug trafficking, cybersecurity, human trafficking and financial crimes. This is not, of course, the first time these two countries have sat down at the negotiating table during their tortuous relationship, nor the first time that Cuba has reached out to the U.S. But for the Cuban historian from the Colegio de Mexico, Rafael Rojas, what is unusual is that Cuba seems to be adapting to the roadmap laid out by Trumps National Security Strategy. At the end of last year, the U.S. president dusted off a 19th century doctrine, known as the Monroe Doctrine, that justified intervention across the American continent, turning international law on its head. The historian recalls previous negotiations, such as the rafter crisis in 1994, when Bill Clintons administration asked Havana to contain the Cuban migratory flow which amounted to more than 35,000 people leaving the island. But now its being talked about in broader terms: Cuba neutralizing the flow from the Greater Caribbean. It is a message that seeks to placate fears of a mass exodus to the United States, one of its greatest historical concerns, says Rojas. In the last five years, as the deep structural crisis pushing Cubans into misery has worsened, at least one million people have left the island, amounting to 10% of the total population. Diaz-Canel has insisted on negotiations that exercise respect for the sovereignty, independence and self-determination of Cuba, a red line that suggests no sudden departure from the authoritarian political model established in 1959. Trumps approach to Venezuela, a kind of forced transition, seems unlikely, according to analysts. For Sergio Angel, the director of the Cuba Program at the Colombian university Sergio Arboleda, using the same resource would not work. In Venezuela, he adds, there were judicial cases against the leaders, previous negotiations and an escalation of force that began with the attacks on the alleged narco-boats. Miguel Diaz-Canel, speaking in Havana, Cuba, on February 5, 2026. Presidencia de Cuba (EFE) The recent announcement by the State Department that it will send $6 million in humanitarian assistance to Cuba indicates Washington is considering very different tactics compared to Venezuela. The White House is interested in political control and social order in Cuba both to avoid the much-feared mass exodus, and also to avoid fomenting a wave of repression on the island that would push the U.S. to intervene militarily, says Sergio Angel. At the same time, the State Departments announcement suggests Cubas other suppliers have been displaced to allow the U.S. to become its main supplier in return for a lot [of control]. While the deterrent in Venezuela was force, in Cuba it is linked to the economy. Some economists in Cuba have been raising their voices calling for reform, especially in the economic sphere. They want to see more openness to international markets and foreign investment, expanding on the initiatives of a decade ago after the thaw of diplomatic relations with the Obama administration. Those initiatives sunk with Trump 1.0 and the pandemic. Now, with the collapse of Cubas three main sources of income tourism, remittances and service exports Sergio Angel wonders how long the regime can sustain what is an unbearable situation for the population. Castroism is an expert in buying time, but time is running out, he says. Meanwhile, Rojas believes that the negotiations are going to be slow and moderate. It is possible that they will make some concessions, such as an amnesty for political prisoners, but in a very gradual way. We are still in free fall, without an end in sight While Cuban households try to keep up with the pace of rationing announced by the government, the streets, workplaces and shops are abuzz with frustration. In a market in Havanas old town, Ramon, a 78-year-old retired engineer, was clearly furious. We are still in free fall, without an end in sight. How long, gentlemen? he wonders while the butcher looks on, his expression serious, while fanning the pork exposed on the counter to scare away the flies. Ramon (a pseudonym) cannot afford to buy pork at1,500 pesos or $3, once a typical ingredient in Cuban cooking. He ends up buying two huge bones that the butcher sells him for 150 pesos. What can you do? At least with this I can make a broth to warm me up, with the cold as it is, he says, taking out the last two 100 peso bills from his wallet. Like Ramon, many pensioners are struggling to make ends meet on their dwindling pensions (about 4,000 pesos or around $7 a month), forcing them to look for other ways to survive. With the latest developments and the authorities asking for more effort and creativity, they are eyeing the future with dread. I thought we would never have to live through such hardships again after getting through the Special Period [of the 1990s], says a 72-year-old woman, who had to return to her former job as a schoolteacher to supplement her pension. Her children send her a monthly remittance of $100, but even so, managing is increasingly difficult with the high prices. Daily survival involves standing in line for several hours, either at the understocked pharmacy, at the grocery store or at the bank. For this 72-year-old, the governments contingency measures will bring more chaos to the few services that remain available to the population. Im too old and too tired to protest, she says. Friendless The Cuban government states that not a single shipment of fuel has entered the country since December. With the Venezuela tap turned off, and with Russia and China looking the other way, Mexico is one of the few allies left to the island. President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged that she has suspended fuel shipments, which Cuba depended on last year. But Sheinbaum has indicated that she will begin to send food and humanitarian aid while she examines the possibility of resuming oil shipments without being sanctioned by the U.S. A driver refuels his motorbike in Havana. Norlys Perez (REUTERS) Mexico is being cautious, as it is also a Trump target, especially in the U.S. administrations campaign against drug cartels. The bilateral relationship has been marked for decades by an old principle, which still seems to be in force a kind of tacit agreement between Mexico and the U.S. by which Mexico can take positions contrary to the U.S. as long as it does not pose a serious problem. Mexicos support of Cuba is an example. By supporting Cuba, the Mexican government could exhibit leftist credentials, without threatening the bilateral relationship. Sheinbaum is trusting this principle, one that was reinforced by former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. In 2022, the latter traveled to Havana to be decorated with the Jose Marti Order, the highest distinction granted by the islands authorities to a foreign figure. During the event, he denounced the U.S. embargo and sent an ambiguous message: I want the Revolution to be able to renew itself. For Sergio Angel, it seemed to insinuate that Mexicos path with the PRI [governing party], and in particular Morena [the political party that emerged from the National Regeneration Movement] could be a benchmark for a democratic transition in Cuba. For years, the Castro elite has been analyzing different models Mexico, China, Vietnam in the event of a transition that would allow them to hang on to a portion of power. Since Lopez Obradors visit, the relationship has been strengthened with more oil shipments in exchange for medical services. Sheinbaum has gone along with it, but with a different discourse. The President insists on the historical relationship between the two, but with more emphasis on the humanitarian angle. It is a discourse difficult for the Cuban authorities to assimilate, wrapped in the rhetoric of dignity and resistance, adds Sergio Angel. The lack of consistency in the Cuban governments latest statements are another symptom of the extreme situation in which the island finds itself. Castroism no longer denies poverty and uses terms such as genocide to criticize Trumps policies. According to the analysts consulted, they are policies that aim to turn the suffering of the population into a spectacle, thereby attempting to appear legitimate and worthy of international solidarity. Meanwhile, Cubans continue to face a crisis that seems never-ending the regimes worst to date. According to a recent survey by the Sergio Arboleda University, carried out last year, almost 80% of Cubans believe that they are experiencing a more extreme crisis than during the 1990s with the threat of option zero hanging over them. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Prabhas-starrer Spirit hasn't even come yet and it has already been associated with all kinds of controversies. providing endless fodder for media portals and social media to concoct all kinds of speculations. The latest is that actor Prakash Raj exited the project over creative differences with Vanga and that the Spirit were seeking a suitable replacement. However, Prakash Raj himself has now cleared the air. In a social media post, the celebrated actor wrote: "To all the toxic fake news peddlers. On Spirit the movie... We have not even started shooting for my scenes... and you WhatsApp factories speculate stories. Grow up and have a life." Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Prabhas, and Triptii Dimri recently revealed the first-look poster which has SANDEEP REDDY VANGA written all over it: bruised male protagonist with long hair and sunglasses, holding a glass of drink, while his woman lights his cigarette for him. The poster has already set Internet ablaze. Some netizens were quick to compare it to Ranbir Kapoor's look in Animal, while others called it another one of the filmmaker's "wet dreams." To all the toxic #Fakenews peddlers. On #Spirit the movie . We have not even started shooting for my scenes .. and you whatsup factories speculate stories . Grow up and have a life . #justasking Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) February 9, 2026 Production officially began in November 2025. A while before that, Sandeep Reddy Vanga revealed a multi-lingual 'Sound Story' which gives us a taste of the film's dialogues without the visuals, hinting at his protagonist's rebellious trait someone with "one bad habit." In the movie, which has Prabhas playing a police officer, Triptii plays the female lead. The two are joined by Vivek Oberoi, Kanchana, and Prakash Raj. Harshavardhan Rameshwar, who wrote the music for Animal, has been roped in to work on the score for Spirit. Cinematographer Raj Thota, who made his debut with Arjun Reddy, will handle the camera. The project marks the first collaboration of Prabhas and Vanga, and the reunion of Dimiri with Vanga after Animal, the Ranbir Kapoor-starring blockbuster in which she played the second female lead. At a recent event, Fahadh Faasil revealed that he is working on a sequel to his biggest blockbuster Aavesham. The plan is bring it out in 2027 or 2028, hopes the actor who added that he has been asked by many about doing a follow-up. The actor also revealed what character he is playing in the Mahesh Narayanan-directed thriller co-starring Mammootty and Mohanlal. For those who don't wish to read anything about the film might want to skip the following. The actor shared that he is playing the antagonist in the espionage thriller. "The next Malayalam release is 'Patriot' in which I am working with Mammootty sir and Mohanlal sir. It is a blessing to be able to share a screen with them. Like everyone else, I am also excited. The film will be released on April 23, 2026. I play the villain in 'Patriot'," said Fahadh. This film, which will see Mammootty and Mohanlal coming together after nineteen years, is being made on the biggest budget in Malayalam till date. The character posters of the film, which were released earlier, were also impressive. Patriot was shot over a year in more than ten schedules in various countries. After films like Take Off and Malik, the biggest highlight of Patriot, directed by Mahesh Narayanan, is its star cast. After Twenty20, all the leading stars of Malayalam are coming together in this. Apart from Mammootty and Mohanlal, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, and Revathi are playing the lead roles. The highly anticipated teaser for Mahesh Narayanan's 'Patriot' released a while ago. The 'Take Off' and 'C U Soon' director's latest project also sees Kunchako Boban, Nayanthara, and Revathi in key roles. Aattam-fame Zarin Shihab is also a part of the film alongside many others. The explosive on-screen reunion of Mohanlal and Mammootty comes 16 years after Joshiy's action thriller 'Twenty: 20' (2008), which saw the two veteran actors take each other head on over a medical college murder. Fahadh was last seen in Odum Kuthira Chaadum Kuthira with Kalyani Priyadarshan. The makers of actor-politician Vijay's last film before his entry into politics, Jana Nayagan, on Monday submitted a letter to the Madras High Court Registry for the withdrawal of the writ petition it had earlier filed against the censor board. According to sources, the writ petition would be listed under the caption For Withdrawal before Justice P.T. Asha on Tuesday, since Vijayan Subramanianthe counsel for KVN Productionshas expressed his clients disinterest in pursuing the writ petition against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The production house has also agreed to refer the dispute over some of the film's scenes to the CBFC's revising committee. Notably, it had earlier questioned the censor board's decision to take up the Jana Nayagan case at the committee, arguing that it would delay the film's original January 9 release date. The counsel for KVN Productions has informed the Madras High Court Registry that the production house intends to withdraw the writ petition related to actor Vijays film Jananayagan. Advocate Vijayan Subramanian submitted a letter to this effect on behalf of the company. The ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 The dispute with the CBFC originally began after the censor board allegedly communicated to the production house on December 22, 2025, that Jana Nayagan was suitable for a U/A (16+) certificate after some minor changes to certain scenes. KVN Productions reportedly accepted the changes, and resubmitted the final cut of the film to the CBFC on December 24. However, it was at around this time that an Advisory Panel Member of the censor board sent a letter to its chairman, Prasoon Joshi, alleging that the review of the film were in "gross violation of the Cinematograph Act and Rules", as per a Hindu report. The APM added that their objections about Jana Nayagan possibly disturbing religious harmony and the improper review of Army-related scenes in the film had also not been taken into account before the CBFC agreed to grant the film a U/A certificate. By December 29five days after the CBFC had received the final cut of the film from KVN Productionsthe censor board instructed its Chennai office to put the certification process on hold. The CBFC had also stated that the APM's concerns with Jana Nayagan would be referred to the revising committee, which was reportedly communicated to the production house only on January 5just four days before its slated release date. This led the makers to file the writ petition in the Madras HC, which was taken up by a single judge, Justice P.T. Asha, who directed on January 9 that the CBFC issue the U/A certificate, as its later decision came too late. The CBFC, however, managed to obtain a stay order on the single-judge ruling on the same day, which led to a lot of back-and-forth court debates until KVN Productions's Monday decision to withdraw the writ petition itself. Brad Pitt and David Fincher fans were treated to a surprise teaser drop at the Super Bowl on Sunday. The footage gives off a strong retro Hollywood vibe showcasing Cliff Booths outlaw charm that we witnessed in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Amidst the flashy, quick cuts of violence, guns, cigarettes, nudity, and profanity many of them humorously censored as a stylistic gag which recalls a moment in Fincher's Fight Club, we see Elizabeth Debicki and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II appearing in era-appropriate looks and costumes. There is, of course, a reference to the violent events of the original film, which confirms that this story takes place after the events of the first. The tone is characteristically sleek, ironic, edgy all Fincher's usual trademarks on full display. One also finds here the sense of a Shane Black dark action comedy think The Nice Guys and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The Adventures of Cliff Booth will have as its main focus the character played by Brad Pitt in the original. Earlier, at the premiere of his now immensely successful racing drama F1: The Movie, Pitt had said the film is more of an "episode" in Cliff Booth's life than a sequel, per se. "This is something that Quentin wrote. Not really a sequel but an episode of the character from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, but he (Tarantino) didn't want to direct it at this point. And so our mutual friend David Fincher stepped in to direct it. We are doing it for Netflix, and we start filming in July. It should be really good fun," said the Fight Club actor in an interview with Deadline. Aside from Pitt, the new cast members include Elizabeth Debicki ('Tenet"), Carla Gugino ("Watchmen"), Scott Caan ("Ocean's Eleven"), and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II ("Aquaman"). The first trailer for David Finchers THE ADVENTURES OF CLIFF BOOTH has been released. Coming soon to Netflix. pic.twitter.com/E70SJrBUzB DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) February 9, 2026 It's not yet clear whether the project, which is expected to be a direct-to-Netflix release, would see the return of Leonardo DiCaprio's Rick Dalton too; if it happens, it would be a treat for fans of the 2019 film directed by Tarantino. Tarantino later expanded the story an "alternate history" take on the tragedy involving filmmaker Roman Polanski and girlfriend Sharon Tate in its novelisation of the same name. As per reports, the film's script has a connection to a recently-dropped project that Tarantino initially announced as his tenth film, titled 'The Movie Critic'. Apparently, the script that caught Fincher and Pitt's attention is an evolved version of what eventually became 'The Movie Critic'. The story is said to be an exploration of Cliff Booth's stand-alone adventures. The reunion of Fincher and Pitt adds further excitement considering the acclaimed previous collaborations of the director and actor, namely Se7en, Fight Club, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. The parents of a female NEET aspirant who died in Patna last month staged a protest at Delhis Jantar Mantar on Sunday, demanding justice for their daughter and calling for an impartial investigation into her death. The student, who was preparing for the medical entrance examination, was found unconscious in her hostel room in Chitragupt Nagar and was rushed to a private hospital. She remained in a coma for several days and died on January 11. Her parents have alleged that the Bihar Police attempted to downplay the case by ruling out sexual assault and describing the incident as a suicide. I want a judicial probe into the incident and the team should be headed by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court or the high court. We want justice for the family as well as our daughter. If I don't get justice, I may go for self-immolation, the victims father said. Echoing his words, the victim's mother said: "If we had received justice in Bihar, why would we have come to Delhi? I want justice for my daughter". The protest was organised under the banner of the Bihar Nirbhaya Sangharsh Samiti (Delhi-NCR) and drew participation from a large number of people from Delhi and Bihar, including members of the victims family. The protesters demanded that the case be investigated under judicial supervision to ensure transparency and impartiality. According to the police, the student died while undergoing treatment in Patna. While there were allegations of sexual assault, police said medical examinations did not confirm evidence of sexual or penetrative assault. However, a forensic report on the girls clothes, which she had been wearing at the time of hospitalisation, has detected traces of semen, strongly suggesting the possibility of sexual assault and harassment. On January 31, the Bihar government requested the Centre to order a CBI probe into the incident, despite the case already being investigated by a special team of the state police. Two weeks after DMKs deputy general secretary Kanimozhi Karunanidhi called on the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Delhi to initiate the alliance talks in Tamil Nadu, the stalemate in the DMK-Congress alliance continues. The DMK, which promised to constitute a committee to hold seat-sharing talks with the national party and the other alliance partners has chosen to remain silent, despite the opposition camps gaining strength. Being a larger partner in the alliance, DMK had promised to constitute a high level committee to hold talks with the Congress and alliance partners, soon after Kanimozhi met Rahul Gandhi in Delhi to iron out the differences in the alliance equations. However, the DMK, sources in the Congress say, is stubborn that the committee will be constituted only after the seat-sharing numbers are finalised behind the scenes. Our leadership is very upset with the developments here. We have asked the DMK high command to initiate the talks so that the alliance talks are settled and we start our election work. But the leadership feels the Congresss demand for a larger number of seats can upset the alliance equations, a senior Congress leader from the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) told THE WEEK. A few of the TNCC leaders have again been summoned by the party high command to Delhi to update on the situation and decide on the next course of action. We have formed a five-member committee. I cannot explain why the DMK has formed a committee. We have now formed a five-member committee with three members from the AICC. All the MPs and MLAs from Tamil Nadu have also met the AICC leadership and expressed our views. And the AICC said that let the committee hold talks with the DMK committee. Also, Kanimozhi met with our leader, Rahul Gandhi, in Delhi about 10 days ago. It's really upto the DMK to explain why they havent formed a committee to hold talks with the Congress. There is no delay on our part. We are willing to be in the alliance, and that is the view of the AICC. But this can only progress after the DMK forms the committee, says Sivaganga MP Karti P. Chidambaram. The delay apparently seems to be causing bitter talks within the alliance back and forth, which has also led to uneasiness in the alliance, spoiling the DMKs electoral prospects. While the DMK believes that it can win the election as it is a four-cornered fight with Vijay eating into AIADMKs vote bank, its delay in accommodating the alliance partners has made the alliance lose in the perception battle. The barbs and comments have only added more bitterness to the relationship. Our demand is 41 seats. They are not willing to talk about the numbers," one of the senior leaders in the Congress committee said. Within the Congress, a section is strongly opposed to continuing the alliance with the DMK and wants to go with Vijays Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam. TVK might be a new party. We will get more seats. And this will help us increase our vote percentage in the state, even if we do not have numbers in the assembly, says one of the Congress MLAs who is for an alliance with the TVK. He feels that Congress is continuously being suppressed in the alliance. We managed to get 63 seats in 2011 when we were in power. But now the DMK is dictating terms. They want to reduce us to less than 25 seats, says another leader who is all set to leave for Delhi to meet the high command. But the DMK, which has already coined a slogan saying Velvom Erunooru (meaning we will win 200), seems to be in no mood to increase the numbers for Congress. The committee will be formed soon. Our leader will hold talks with the Congress leadership personally and take it forward, a senior DMK leader told The Week. However, most of the DMK seniors are in no mood to accommodate the Congress. Why should we work for them? asked a senior leader from the DMK from West Tamil Nadu. However, DMKs organising secretary R.S. Bharathi on Monday clarified that there is no rift in the alliance between the Congress and the DMK. Praveen Chakravarthy is not someone who can decide on the alliance. The alliance between the DMK and the Congress continues, Bharathi said in a statement. Meanwhile, the equation of the alliance in Puducherry is also facing trouble. While the Congress is demanding more seats in Tamil Nadu, the DMK, in Puducherry, is planning to demand more than the 13 seats that it contested in the 2021 polls from the Congress. This has led to a further rift in the alliance. Congress, which had already lost its space in the neighbouring union territory after most of its faces moved to the BJP ahead of the 2021 elections, is said to be upset with DMKs 'high-handedness'. Sources say that DMKs Arakkonam MP and election in-charge for Puducherry, S. Jagathrakshakan, visited the UT this week to assess the electoral situation. Jagathrakshakan, who is also said to have chief ministerial ambitions, did not meet any of the Congress leaders. This was deliberately done to snub the leaders there, says a senior Congress MP. It is said that he met the other alliance partners in Puducherry. The DMK sources have said that he will meet the Congress leaders during his next visit, very soon. In Puducherry, the Congress has more than 26 per cent of the votes, while the DMKs vote bank is only in single digits. Social media influencer K. Reshma, better known to her 2.07 lakh Instagram followers as 'Chinnu Papu', allegedly died by suicide in Kerala's Kasaragod district. The 24-year-old Adoor native, who had been living in a rented flat in the Uliyathadka area of Kasaragod, was confirmed dead by the time her body was rushed to the hospital, an Onmanorama report said. Reshma's body had been found hanging in her room before she was rushed to the hospital, the details of which were communicated to her family at about 2. A police probe has been launched into the alleged suicide case after her two brothers also urged the police for an impartial probe into the unnatural death. The investigation first aims to find out whether her divorce with a person named Prajula following a five-year marriagewhich took place a month ago and left her with a four-year-old sonplayed a part in the hanging. At the time of the incident, the child was at her parents' house, as she usually kept him there when travelling for video shoots. The police are also yet to rule out foul play in Reshma's death. In that regard, her father Gangadharan, a commercial jeep driver, said Reshma had been deeply distressed following the divorce, "but she made a conscious effort not to show it outwardly". "She would keep everything to herself and rarely shared her problems with us, he added. The 24-year-old influencer was known for her cheerful, quirky personality, seen in her videos on local food and events, all spoken in the iconic Kasaragod accent, and her death has come as a major shock to her family and the lakhs of followers she had amassed. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 10 PM.) After a brief health scare, NCP(SP) sources and doctors revealed that Sharad Pawar, 85, is out of danger and in stable condition. Earlier in the day, Pawar was hospitalised at Ruby Hall Clinic as he was suffering from issues related to breathing, coughing and throat. VIDEO | Pune: Dr. Abhijeet Lodha, Ruby Hall clinic, informing about the health of NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, says, "See, because of physical exertion, there was some congestion in his chest. We have done the appropriate investigations and started the appropriate treatment. The pic.twitter.com/4EpAyvXN0x Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 9, 2026 Dr Abhijeet Lodha, who treated the veteran leader, revealed that there is no need to keep Pawar in ICU and was moved to a private room in the hospital. "At the moment all the vital parameters are stable, including the oxygen level, the blood pressure and the saturation," said the doctor. "Because of physical exertion, there was some congestion in his chest. We have done the appropriate investigations and started the appropriate treatment. The further modifications in the treatment will be decided once we get the investigation reports," Dr Lodha added. He was kept under medical examination under the supervision of a team of specialists. He was accompanied to the hospital by his wife Pratibha Pawar, his daughter and MP Supriya Sule and son-in-law Sadanand Sule. Pawar was suffering from cough for two-three days. It should be noted that Pawar is a survivor of oral cancer since the 1990s and had undergone multiple surgeries over the decades. Amid growing uproar in Parliament, the Opposition on Monday decided to move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking his removal from office. The motion is being introduced under Article 94-C of the Constitution. The Oppositions grievances against Birla include disallowing Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi from speaking during the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address, and failing to take action against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for making unfounded charges against women MPs of the Congress. The Opposition also accused Birla of providing special privileges to certain Treasury Bench MPs. Another key issue raised is the suspension of eight Opposition MPs for the entire session, which has been cited as a further reason for the move against the Speaker. VIDEO | Congress MP KC Venugopal, reacting to the no-confidence move against Speaker Om Birla, says, "The Leader of the Opposition is meant to be the shadow of the Prime Minister but is not allowed to speak in the House. There is no space for the opposition in this house. I pic.twitter.com/XtSWp1yKrJ Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 9, 2026 The decision to introduce the no-confidence motion was made during a meeting of Opposition leaders held this morning in the chamber of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. To be introduced in the Lok Sabha, the motion requires the signatures of 100 MPs. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Trinamool Congress, Left parties, DMK, SP, RJD, Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and RSP. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram stated that the no-confidence motion is a legitimate parliamentary tool to raise issues of concern. "Parliament is for debating and following procedure that includes giving space to the Opposition to raise issues of concern to the nation. Opposition parties use various tools to register their protest, and this is a tool to do so," he told ANI. Kartis colleague, Gurjeet Aujla, expressed similar concerns, accusing the Speaker of denying the Leader of Opposition (LoP) time to speak on the India-US trade deal. "The voice of the nation is raised here. The farmers, labours, all sections are going to suffer with the US-India trade deal as the country will become an open market for China and US. This will also be a huge loss to the industries as well and the LoP wants to discuss this. But he was not given time. Nishikant Dubey uses abusive language towards the MPs, but his mic was not turned off," he said. Once known for glitzy hotels and posh apartment towers, the Palm Jumeirah was once the hottest location in Dubai. But according to a new study, Palm Jebel Ali has replaced Palm Jumeirah as the leading location for homes priced above AED 20 million. in 2025. A market study conducted by Penthouse, a UAE-based property developer, says that Palm Jebel Ali accounted for 21 per cent of all ultra-luxury transactions above AED20 million conducted in Dubai. The city logged 2,489 residential property transactions in 2025. Of these, 64 per cent was off-plan properties while 36 per cent was ready properties. For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East As per the study report, a total of 517 homes were sold in the area, generating AED12.4 billion in sales value, the highest of any location in Dubai. The second position was occupied by Oasis, which accounted for 12 per cent of ultra-luxury transactions with 307 deals. Palm Jumeirah placed third with 273 transactions, Arabian Business quoted the market report. Palm Jebel Ali and The Oasis were driven entirely by off-plan sales, while Palm Jumeirah remained the leading location for ready ultra-luxury homes, the report added. Ultra-high-net-worth clients are increasingly drawn to large-scale, waterfront-led master developments such as Palm Jebel Ali and The Oasis, while established destinations like Palm Jumeirah continue to command strong demand for ready, best-in-class homes, Marcus Andersson, Head of Luxury Sales at Penthouse.ae and Off Plan at Metropolitan Premium Properties, was quoted by Arabian Business. Besides these areas, the other locations with notable ultra-luxury transactions during 2025 included Dubai Hills Estate, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai. Business Bay recorded the single largest transaction of the year, with a sky mansion at Bugatti Residences by Binghatti selling for AED550 million, the report added. The study said that established locations, including Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills and Dubai Hills Estate, will maintain their stature as the key ultra-luxury markets. New developments are coming up at Palm Jebel Ali and The Oasis. More than a hundred people with pancreatic cancer have written to the Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO) seeking help from scientist Mariano Barbacid, who on January 27 convened a press conference to present the promising results of an experiment with 45 mice that he claimed were cured. Four employees of the center have confirmed this flood of desperate messages, adding that some patients even showed up at the door of the research institution in Madrid in the hopes of being able to speak personally with Barbacid. The biochemist revealed his results on February 2 on Spains most-watched television program, El Hormiguero. The host, Pablo Motos, proclaimed: Its a miracle. Colleagues at his own center criticize Barbacid for not better explaining his conflict of interest. He and his colleagues Carmen Guerra and Vasiliki Liaki have applied for a patent for the commercial exploitation of their experimental therapy, should it ever become a reality. The three of them, along with other partners, founded a company, Vega Oncotargets, in April 2024 to develop the treatment in animals. The company prominently displayed on its websiteuntil this past Fridaythat they had achieved the first effective therapy against pancreatic cancer, but the slogan falls short of the truth. After being rejected by the prestigious journal Nature, they published their study on December 2 in PNAS, the journal of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. Because Barbacid is an academic, he has the right to publish his work through an expedited process, with a slightly less stringent peer review. That study with 45 cured mice went unnoticed for almost two months, until the scientist organized a massive news conference on January 27 in collaboration with the private CRIS Cancer Foundation. Then it became world news. One of the most widely read newspapers on the planet, The Times of India, ran the headline: Spanish scientist finds cure for pancreatic cancer in major medical breakthrough. Barbacid had already announced in 2011, when he was director of the CNIO, that his team had discovered a mechanism that prevents the onset and development of lung cancer, as a press release headlined. In the same statement, he accused the Spanish Ministry of Science of hindering his research by blocking private funding. In a harsh response, the ministry, then led by the biologist Cristina Garmendia, lamented the false expectations generated by Barbacid, which play on the pain and fear that this disease produces in the population. The ministry, in an unprecedented clash, warned: Basic findings made in mice should not be announced as if the step to a cure in humans were immediate. El Hormiguero's YouTube channel featured its interview with biochemist Mariano Barbacid on February 2. The sign in the back says "Cure against pancreatic cancer. A historic breakthrough!" The new study by Barbacids group presents the results of a triple therapy that attacks the KRAS proteina kind of switch that triggers cell divisionfrom three different angles. Certain alterations in this moleculecaused by smoking, for examplecause cells to run rampant, multiply uncontrollably, and generate a tumor. The triple therapy consists of three experimental drugs: daraxonrasib, from the U.S. company Revolution Medicines; afatinib, from the German company Boehringer Ingelheim; and SD-36, developed by chemist Shaomeng Wang at the University of Michigan. The three products belong to other laboratories, but Barbacids team has created the company Vega Oncotargets to try to invent and patent alternatives similar to SD-36 and afatinib, which is highly toxic to the skin. The triple therapy has achieved complete and lasting regression of the cancer in 45 mice, both rodents with their own tumors induced through genetic engineering and specimens with grafted human tumor cells, but it has not been tested on metastases. This newspaper has tried to contact Barbacid since Thursday, without success. EL PAIS sought the opinion of four independent experts in the United States regarding the study. Biologist Pawel Mazur, from the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas, emphasizes that Barbacid is an undisputed leader in pancreatic cancer research and that his latest study is one of the most compelling and encouraging preclinical advances [in animals] in this field. However, Mazur is highly critical of the way the research was publicly communicated. The way these findings have been presentedwith references to a cure and a first effective therapygoes well beyond what the current evidence supports and risks giving desperate patients unrealistic expectations, the biologist laments. It would be more responsible to frame this work as a very promising early step that may help design future clinical trials [in humans], rather than as a nearterm solution for people currently living with pancreatic cancer. Ben Stangers team reported in August 2025 that they had achieved complete responses in mice with pancreatic cancer using a combination of drugs and immunotherapy, without creating the kind of global hype seen in the case of Barbacid. When the findings of a research study are shared with the public, it is the responsibility of both the scientists and the journalists to put the findings in proper context, neither downplaying nor inflating their direct or indirect implications, says Stanger, from the University of Pennsylvania. While the findings in the PNAS paper [published by Barbacids team] were represented in a fair and accurate manner, Im not sure the same can be said about the press release and subsequent coverage, he adds. Biochemist Laura Attardi, from Stanford University, believes Barbacids research is groundbreaking. Alterations in the KRAS protein underlie nearly 90% of pancreatic cancer cases. For decades, this complex molecule was considered an impossible target for drug treatment. However, in 2021, the American pharmaceutical company Amgen obtained approval for sotorasib, a drug effective against lung cancer in people with a specific mutation. The problem is that tumors develop resistance to these early KRAS inhibitors. Barbacids study, with its triple therapy, circumvents this problem and presents an exciting new clinical approach, Attardi says. It looks very promising. I am sure there is more optimization to be done, but I think its a historic milestone, the Stanford researcher concludes. Biomedical scientist Luisa Escobar-Hoyos, from Yale University, also applauds Barbacids promising results, but remains grounded. Its important to emphasize that only 10% of clinical trials in patients with pancreatic cancer have resulted in a change in medical practice, despite successful tests in mice, she points out. Therefore, from a scientific perspective, these results are excellent news. From a clinical perspective, and for patients, its important to be cautiously optimistic, Escobar-Hoyos concludes. The Vega Oncotargets website lists Mariano Barbacid and Carmen Guerra as co-founders. A third co-founder, the astronaut and biotechnologist Sara Garcia, was also listed, but her name disappeared on February 5. Garcia, who works in the same group at the CNIO, confirmed by phone that it was a mistake and that she is not affiliated with the company. The sole administrator is Gerardo Gutierrez, the successful chemist who in 1991 founded Gadea Grupo Farmaceuticoa corticosteroid manufacturing empireand sold it for $174 million in 2015 to a U.S. multinational. Gutierrez provided details of the shareholding structure at the request of EL PAIS. He and his two sons, through the company 3-Gutinver, own 25%. The investment company of the Castile and Leon regional government, Sodical, holds another 25%. A lawyer from Salamanca owns 10%. The Hermanos Alvarez Quiros Foundation owns 7.5%. The CRIS Cancer Foundation owns 5.2%. The CNIO owns 5%. And almost a quarter belongs to the scientists involved in the research. Vega Oncotargets doesnt yet have any employees, Gutierrez acknowledges. We outsource everything, he explains. The entrepreneur highlights the collaboration with FTherapeutics, a consultancy founded by chemist Rafael Ferritto to help turn ideas into real drugs. Barbacids group at the CNIO is divided into two teams: one, led by astronaut Sara Garcia, is trying to find its own molecule for triple therapy; the other, headed by Carmen Guerra, is searching for another drug for a second approach. The third drug would be daraxonrasib, from the American company Revolution Medicines. Gutierrez realistically describes the current situation: they havent even proven that their own products work in mice yet, but they are optimistic. We have a couple of molecules that are showing great promise, but we need to continue refining them and measuring their toxicity. The probability of this working out well isnt high, to say the least, but if things go well, we estimate that in two or three years we could begin trials in human volunteers, he says. Gutierrez acknowledges that it was a mistake for Vega Oncotargets website to announce the first effective therapy against pancreatic cancer, without any certainty that such a treatment will ever exist. We have very promising initial results, but its very important not to give false hope, he admits. The company changed its slogan this past Friday. It is now: We research to cure pancreatic cancer. Pharmacologist Carmen Guerra says she has received about 40 messages from patients in her inbox. Barbacids inbox is completely overwhelmed, she confirms. We didnt expect this reaction; weve tried to make it clear that this is in mice, she laments. On the PubPeer website, where scientists comment on studies by other colleagues, molecular biologist Sholto David has pointed out that the article published in PNAS contains the same image twice, illustrating two different experiments. David, a well-known science sleuth, has also noted what appear to be two images of the same tumor, presented as if they were two different tumors. Guerra regrets the errors but emphasizes that they are minimal and do not affect the conclusions at all. The president of the CRIS Cancer Foundation, Lola Manterola, believes that the communication campaign carried out by her organization has been impeccable, making it clear at all times that the study is in mice. Manterola herself has appeared in several interviews with Barbacid. After El Hormiguero host Pablo Motos said that its a miracle and after receiving two standing ovations, the biochemist clarified: At least in experimental tumors. It must be made very clear that we still have at least two or three years to go before we can reach patients. On the programs YouTube channel, with 750,000 subscribers, the interview video is presented with a title card added later: The cure for pancreatic cancer. A historic breakthrough! The CRIS Cancer Foundation, founded by Manterola herself after overcoming multiple myeloma, has raised 64 million in its 15 years of existence to invest in cancer research at public institutions, according to its own figures. The non-profit organization has a commitment of another 150 million for the next five years. The Barbacid group has received almost 11 million in public funding, both national and European, since 2018, according to the CNIO. Nearly 66% of its funding is public. CRIS Cancer Foundation has provided it with approximately 2 million since 2020. Of course, all governments need to invest more, but civil society, if it wants things to change, has to get involved, Manterola urges in a telephone conversation. The president explains that, seeing various online initiatives raising money for Barbacid, her foundation decided to launch a fundraising campaign on January 31. In just nine days, they have already raised 3 million, with a goal of 3.5 million. In his first press conference, the biochemist estimated that 30 million would be needed to reach the first human trials and determine whether it would be worthwhile to continue. The campaigns message centers on Barbacid: He has managed to cure pancreatic cancer in mice and now needs our support to cure it in humans. The video is more ambiguous. The biochemist, dressed in a white coat, proclaims: I am Mariano Barbacid, and as you have seen in all the news reports, my team and I have achieved the complete and lasting regression of experimental pancreatic cancers; but this is not our goal. Our ultimate goal is to be able to cure pancreatic cancer in patients. And the sooner, the better. Thats why I need your help. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is actively reshaping its demographic and security landscape as part of its broader Vision 2030 reforms. According to Data Saudi, the countrys current total population is 35.3 million, with 19.6 million Saudi nationals and 15.7 million non-Saudis. They found that controlling illegal migration is vital to this transition because it is not just a labour issue but also a significant threat to national security and social stability. To address this issue more effectively, Riyadh has evolved beyond traditional deportation and adopted a more comprehensive approach that incorporates biometric surveillance, border security enhancements, and diplomatic initiatives. These measures address its porous southern border with Yemen, the urban labour market, and the sacred spaces of religious pilgrimage. Firstly, Riyadhs 1,800-km border with Yemen presents a complex migration challenge. Yemens internal situation is dire, caused by a lengthy civil war and economic collapse that have damaged the country's essential infrastructure. Each year, thousands of illegal migrants try to cross into Saudi Arabia and are labelled as infiltrators by the Saudi Ministry of Interior. Over time, the porous borders have been exploited by third-country nationals to enter Saudi territory. According to the IOMs Annual Migration Report 2025, 110,144 migrants entered Yemen by the end of 2025, mainly Ethiopians (97%) and a small number of Somalians (3%), all aiming to reach Saudi Arabia. For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East Saudi Arabia acknowledged the situation, increased border security, and invested heavily in constructing physical and electronic fences, along with thermal imaging and motion sensors. Between 2024 and 2025, the Kingdom detained thousands of individuals weekly. Saudi Arabia views these unregulated and illegal migrations from Yemen as a major threat to its national security, because they could serve as channels for Houthi insurgents or weapon smuggling. Under the Border Security Law, violators face strict penalties and are often detained in specialised centres for quick repatriation. Secondly, Saudi Arabia hosts millions of foreign workers whose legal status is linked to the traditional Kafala (sponsorship) system. When these workers abandon their jobs or seek higher wages in the free market, they are considered Makhalif (violators). Some of these workers stay in the country long after their visas expire, raising serious concerns. Nirmalshankar M Riyadh is implementing a modern regulatory approach through the A Nation Without Violators campaign. As part of this, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development regularly conducts on-site inspections to verify workers' biometric data at construction sites and industrial centres. Since late 2025, many companies have identified undocumented workers and penalised them, along with imposing a five-year recruitment ban. The government has digitised the residency process by launching the Absher and Qiwa platforms. This enables sponsors to renew permits; failure to do so within 24 hours of expiration will freeze the individuals identity, cutting off access to banking, healthcare, and even mobile services. Thirdly, the regulations address individuals who enter the Kingdom with Umrah or Hajj visas but overstay. While many of these pilgrims remain illegally, seeking appropriate jobs, a specific group becomes vulnerable and is exploited by organised syndicates, being forced into begging in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The government even fines them up to SAR 50,000 and immediately deport them. However, in late 2025 and early 2026, Saudi authorities reported deporting over 56,000 Pakistani nationals for begging-related activities. To monitor the conditions, Riyadh is using AI-integrated CCTV in the Grand Mosque and its surrounding areas to identify beggars. Similarly, Riyadh has begun imposing pre-departure requirements, requiring pilgrims from high-risk categories to sign affidavits pledging not to beg. Travel agencies should be held legally and financially responsible for the return of every member of their tour group; failure to comply will result in the suspension of Umrah quotas. Therefore, these technology-driven regulations in Saudi Arabia show a shift from reactive to proactive policies. By strengthening the Yemeni border, digitising the labour market, and applying diplomatic pressure on countries that send pilgrims, Riyadh aims to prevent illegal migration to protect its demographic sovereignty by reserving national resources and jobs for its citizens. The author is a doctoral candidate at the Centre for West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to uranium enrichment, dismissing the growing US military presence in the Middle East as an attempt at intimidation. Speaking on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would not abandon its nuclear activities, even under the threat of war. Araghchi questioned Washingtons sincerity in reviving nuclear negotiations and said Iran was in talks with its strategic partners, China and Russia. Why do we insist so much on enrichment and refuse to give it up, even if a war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to dictate our behaviour, Araghchi said, according to AFP. Their military deployment in the region does not scare us. Irans uranium enrichment programme has long been a central point of contention with US President Donald Trump, whose administration bombed Iranian nuclear sites in June during the 12-day IranIsrael conflict. The United States has warned of possible military intervention following Irans crackdown on anti-government protests last month. Washington has also deployed additional forces to the region, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with warships and warplanes, in an effort to pressure Tehran into a new agreement. Despite the escalating tensions, Araghchi said Irans strength lies in its ability to resist external pressure. I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran's power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressures from others, he said while addressing diplomats at a summit in Tehran. They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb, Araghchi added. Our real weapon is the power to say no to the great powers. The Israeli Security Cabinet has approved a series of measures on Sunday that significantly deepen Jerusalems administrative and legal control over the West Bank. Government sources described the decisions as a long-overdue normalisation of Jewish life in the territory. Critics, including Palestinian officials and Israeli rights groups, argue that the measures amount to de facto annexation, fundamentally reshaping the West Banks legal and political architecture. At the heart of the cabinets decision is a sweeping overhaul of land laws and planning authority. Central to this is the repeal of a Jordanian-era regulation that restricted the sale of West Bank land to private Jewish individuals. Under the previous system, Jewish land purchases were permitted only through registered companies and required special approval from the Israeli Civil Administration. The new rules abolish these requirements, allowing Jews to purchase land directly, under conditions broadly similar to those within Israel proper. The cabinet also approved the removal of confidentiality protections on West Bank land registration records. The government argues that opening these archives will improve transparency and curb fraud. Opponents counter that this will make it easier for settlers and affiliated organisations to identify, contest and ultimately appropriate Palestinian land, particularly in areas with disputed or incomplete ownership documentation. Further reinforcing this shift, the government has authorised the revival of the Land Acquisition Committee, a state body that ceased operating roughly two decades ago. The committee is empowered to proactively purchase land in the West Bank on behalf of the state, explicitly to secure reserves for the future expansion of Jewish communities. Critics say this marks a decisive move away from temporary occupation towards long-term territorial consolidation. Beyond land ownership, the cabinets decisions substantially expand Israeli enforcement authority into Areas A and B of the West Bank. Under the Oslo Accords, Area A is under full Palestinian civil and security control, while Area B is administered by the Palestinian Authority with Israeli security oversight. The new measures authorise Israeli officials to enforce laws related to environmental protection, water management and archaeological preservation within these areas. Palestinian officials believe that the move goes against the fundamental logic of the Oslo framework, which clearly prohibited Israeli civilian control in Palestinian-administered territory. Additional steps reinforce this pattern. Planning authority for Jewish settlement areas in Hebron has been transferred from the local municipality to the Civil Administration, removing the requirement for coordination with the Palestinian city government. A new dedicated municipal authority has also been established for the Rachels Tomb complex in Bethlehem, placing management of the sensitive religious site firmly under Israeli administrative control. Critics say the decisions mark the end of the Oslo Accords. By asserting sovereignty over land registration, planning and enforcement in Palestinian-controlled areas, Israel seems to be executing a comprehensive territorial and demographic takeover. There are several physical measures, including new fencing and barriers in parts of the Jordan Valley, which appear designed to separate Palestinian communities and create space for more settlements. Israeli leaders driving the measure say the changes are a correction of historical injustice. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Israel Ganz, head of the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council, argue that the previous legal regime effectively rendered Jewish residents second-class citizens, subject to what they describe as discriminatory Jordanian laws. Ganz has repeatedly argued that allowing Arabs to purchase land freely while restricting Jews was an untenable contradiction. Proponents also stress environmental and heritage concerns. According to Ganz, the absence of Israeli enforcement in Palestinian-run areas has led to widespread pollution and systematic damage to archaeological sites, harming both populations. Smotrich has been more explicit about the broader political intent, stating openly that the goal is to continue to bury the idea of a Palestinian state and entrench Israeli control across the territory. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the cabinets decision as dangerous and illegal, accusing Israel of attempting to retroactively legalise settlement expansion and land confiscation. He called the measures null and void, asserting that Israel has no sovereignty over occupied territory and no authority to amend its legal status. Hamas went further, calling for escalation and urging Palestinians in the West Bank and Jerusalem to intensify confrontations with Israeli forces and settlers. The group described the decision as part of a fascist settler-colonial approach and called on Arab and Islamic states to sever ties with Israel and expel its diplomats. Regional actors also voiced concern. Jordans Foreign Ministry condemned the measures as a violation of international law and an attempt to impose illegal sovereignty over occupied land. Palestinian leaders have called for urgent intervention by the United States and the UN Security Council. The timing of the announcement has drawn particular scrutiny. The cabinets approval comes just days before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus scheduled meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington. Analysts argue that the move reflects a deliberate effort by Israels right wing to establish irreversible facts on the ground ahead of any diplomatic engagement. While Trump has previously stated that he does not support formal annexation, citing commitments to Arab partners, critics argue that Israels current strategy achieves the same outcome through bureaucratic and administrative means. Peace Now, the Israeli anti-settlement watchdog, warned that the measures are designed to break through every possible barrier to large-scale land seizure. The group argues that while the government claims to be dismantling Hamas, it is simultaneously hollowing out the Palestinian Authority and nullifying signed agreements, pushing a viable two-state solution further out of reach. The absence of Irans Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, from an important state event has triggered speculations about his health and safety. According to reports, the Air Force Day celebrations in Iran were held on Sunday, where the commanders of Iran's Air Force and Air Defence met with Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of the Islamic Republics founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East Supreme Leader Ali Khameneis not holding the annual meet is unprecedented, with some reports saying it is for the first time in 37 years. During the previous years, it was customary to mark the anniversary with a meeting with him, even during the Covid. This is a dramatic change in protocol, as the event has always been noted as one of Khamenei's most symbolic and important meetings with the security forces, and state media did not provide any explanation for the departure from the practice. So far, no official announcement has been made about a change in the leader's schedule or any other reason that prevented his participation. The meeting was attended by senior commanders, officers and personnel from the Air Force and the Air Defense Directorate, as well as other senior figures in the Iranian military, including the army commander and the head of Khamenei's military bureau. That said, Israeli media have speculated that Khamenei is hiding somewhere, fearing a US attack amid the protests. Some also fear that the Iranian regime is worried about external intelligence operators who may have penetrated deep into the corridors of power in Tehran. Earlier, there were reports that Khamenei had moved into a fortified underground shelter in Tehran after senior military and security officials assessed a heightened risk of a potential US attack. According to Iran International, the protected facility to which Khamenei was transferred is "a fortified site with connected tunnels. There are also information indicating that Massoud Khamenei, the third son of the Supreme Leader, has taken over the day-to-day management of the Leader's Office, and serves as the main channel of communication with the executive bodies of the government. Christina Korp is an astronaut manager and the founder of SPACE for a Better World. She is known for her work with astronaut Edwin Buzz Aldrin, who was part of the historic Apollo 11 mission that first landed humans on the moon. Korp has earned the nickname astronaut wrangler. Based in Florida, Korp produced the last five galas at the Kennedy Space Center, celebrating the Apollo 11 mission. She now collaborates with notable figures such as Apollo 16 moonwalker Charles Duke and NASA astronaut Nicole Stott. Korp founded SPACE for a Better World in 2020 to emphasise how space exploration benefits all life on Earth and how it could play a crucial role in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Korp discusses the significance of the Artemis II mission and explains why humans will continue to be obsessed with the Moon missions. Why is all this obsession with the Moon especially with the upcoming Artemis II mission? Artemis II is different from most of the recent Moon missions. A human mission takes it to a whole new level. Humans havent been to the Moon in over 53 years since the last Moon landing on Apollo 17. People often forget that we actually went to the Moon, let alone the fact that there were nine human missions and six successful Moon landings. Artemis II will be a historic milestone as the first mission to send a woman, a person of colour, and a Canadian to the Moon. Like Apollo 8 in December 1968, the missions primary objective is to orbit the Moon, but Artemis II will travel farther from Earth and in a higher lunar orbit than any human mission before. Unlike the Cold Warera space race, Artemis represents a shift toward long-term lunar exploration and a sustained human presence on the Moon. The program emphasises international collaboration, with 61 nations signing the Artemis Accords to work together in the exploration of the Moon. How do lunar missions help humans on Earth? During the Apollo program, the original goal was to demonstrate technological superiority over the Soviet Union, but the missions ultimately became focused on scientific discovery. The technologies developed for Apollo continue to benefit the world today, including advances in communications, computing, and life-support systems such as air and water purification. These innovations, created to keep astronauts alive in space, have since found widespread use on Earth, showing how Apollos true impact extends far beyond its original purpose. The reason to return to the Moon goes beyond learning how to live on another world. A key objective is to extract water ice found in permanently shadowed regions near the Moons South Pole. This ice can be used to provide drinking water and support food production, but its greatest value lies in its chemical components. By separating water into hydrogen and oxygen, it can be converted into rocket fuel. Establishing a fuel depot in lunar orbit would be transformative, as water is extremely heavy and expensive to launch from Earth. Using lunar resources makes deep-space travel more practical, enabling missions to asteroids rich in valuable materials. This approach supports the long-term vision championed by companies like Blue Origin: moving resource-intensive industry off Earth so humanity can better protect and preserve our home planet. How is the Artemis mission different from the earlier missions, particularly the Apollo Moon missions, both technically and scientifically? Technologically, Artemis uses modern systems that allow for longer missions and sustained operations around the Moon rather than short visits. Advances in computing, navigation, robotics, and life-support systems also make Artemis safer, more flexible, and capable of going farther than Apollo ever could. Also, the spacecraft will have 4k cameras this time to share the mission in high definition. Scientifically, Apollo was mainly about proving we could get to the Moon and bringing back samples. Artemis is about learning how to stay there. The missions focus on long-term exploration and understanding the Moon as a stepping stone for deeper space exploration. Artemis is about building a lasting presence and preparing for what comes next. What kind of challenges do astronauts face during lunar missions? Artemis II is only a 10-day mission, so the challenges are expected to be minimal. Three of the crew members have already spent a good deal of time in space, so they are experienced with living in zero gravity. This will be Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansens first spaceflightgoing to the Moon is a great first mission to space. Because this is not a long-duration mission, they should be well-equipped. They have trained for years for this. However, for future long-duration Moon missions, there will be many adjustments, like adjusting to 1/6 gravitytheir spacesuits weigh about 360 pounds on Earth but only 60 pounds on the Moon. Although that sounds fun, it also means that the astronauts are at risk for bone and muscle loss. So just like on the ISS, they will likely have to exercise for 1-2 hours per day. The lunar soil or regolith is harsh on spacesuits and equipment. The lunar surface is covered in abrasive, electrostatic, and microscopic dust. It sticks to suits and equipment, poses a respiratory hazard if tracked into the habitat, and can damage seals, bearings, and airlocks. The Moon has no atmosphere or magnetic field, exposing astronauts to high levels of cosmic radiation and solar particle events, requiring heavy shielding for habitats, likely involving burying them under meters of regolith. Besides this, temperature changes are extremefrom extremely hot to roughly -248C (-414F). How can missions to the moon lead to further missions to the red planet, Mars? If we can learn how to live on the Moon, then that will prepare humans for life on Mars. As my friend, NASA astronaut Nicole Stott (who has travelled to the ISS twice), likes to say, there is no better example of living off the grid than going to space. The Moon gives us a nearby testing ground where we can practice surviving and working in a harsh environment, from life-support systems to resource management. Once we master living on the Moon, well be better prepared for Mars and able to identify and fix problems before sending people much farther from Earth. The Moon is only about three days away so that help can arrive quickly in an emergency. Mars, however, is a very different storygetting there takes months, making it essential to solve those challenges ahead of time. How significant is the discovery of water ice on the Moon? Its a huge deal that water ice exists on the Moon. If you have ice, you have waterfor drinking, growing food, and supporting human life. That water can also be broken down into oxygen to breathe and hydrogen for fuel, which means astronauts wouldnt have to bring everything from Earth. Having accessible water ice makes long-term missions possible and turns the Moon from just a place we visit into a place where humans can actually live and work sustainably. Is the Artemis II mission fully geared to deal with any unforeseen challenges for the astronauts? Radiation is a big challenge for long stays on the Moonone we havent fully solved yet. To have a permanent presence there, well need to find ways to protect astronauts from it. That might mean building habitats underground in natural lava tubes, which can shield from radiation, or developing new kinds of protective shielding that can handle the harsh space environment. Figuring this out is key to keeping people safe during extended missions. Artemis aims to land the first woman and the next man on the Moon. Why is this milestone important for global space exploration? Its a big deal because seeing the first woman and first person of colour go to the Moon shows that space is truly for everyone. Just imagine how every woman and little girl will feel watching a woman step onto the Moon for the first timehalf the world suddenly seeing themselves represented in history. And seeing the first coloured man on the Moon sends a powerful message to people around the world: no matter who you are or where you come from, you can aim higher for your dreams. What new scientific discoveries can we expect from human exploration of the Moon that only humans can achieve and not robots or machines? Buzz Aldrin said, Ive never seen a ticker tape parade for a robot. And he was right. When Buzz, Neil Armstrong, and Michael Collins travelled the world on their Goodwill tour, millions of people lined the streets to see thembecause humans in space inspire something machines do not. Rockets and robots are incredible, but humans remind us of whats possible. They awaken our imagination, ignite our curiosity, and spark a fire in the human spirit that drives us to explore the unknown and achieve the impossible. Every step they take beyond Earth is a step for all of us, a reminder that no dream is too big, no frontier too distant. How will Artemis contribute to the growth of the global space economy and international collaboration? Artemis isnt just about exploring the Moonits a major investment in the future economy. Developing rockets, spacecraft, and lunar technology creates high-tech jobs, drives innovation, and opens new markets. The World Economic Forum (WEF) predicted the global space economy will triple from $ 630 billion in 2023 to $1.8 trillion by 2035. This growth, averaging 9 per cent annually, is driven by satellite-enabled technologies like communications, navigation, and Earth observation becoming as integral to daily life as semiconductors. Companies and countries working together on lunar missions are laying the foundation for industries like space mining, in-orbit manufacturing, and space-based energyopportunities that could generate trillions in economic value and reshape how we invest in technology and resources. As UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer currently navigates backlash over the Epstein files, which might just mean the end of his tenure in office, a new contender may take his place: Shabana Mahmood. Mahmood, who has been serving as the UK's home secretary since 2025, is said to be a strong contender to lead the Labour Party if Starmer were to exit, which would make her the nation's first Pakistani-origin Muslim PM. Born in Birmingham to Zubaida and Mahmood Ahmed, who are of Pakistani origin, the 45-year-old politician is a key ally of Starmer, who became one of the UK's first female Muslim MPs back in 2010. Her persuasive speaking, legal background, and most importantly, her Home Office post dealing with border security, have made her a strong contender for the PM post, a Hindustan Times report said. Yet, it must be remembered that she has neither spoken about running for PM, nor has Starmer confirmed his exit. Many have often criticised her hardline stance on immigration as hypocriticalbecause of her roots, especially her recent moves to tighten the rules pertaining to permanent residency in the UK, also called indefinite leave to remain (ILR). Yet, others see her religion as a means for her and the Labour Party to reach out and bring back the pro-Palestine supporters that it had lost over the years due to its backing of Israel's military actions in Gaza, a BBC report said. Will PM Starmer be shown the door? Starmer's time in officewhich had been weakened by record-low approval ratings, policy issues, and cost of living criseshas seen political parties on the Right slowly polarise some of its support away. "I am sorry, sorry for what was done to you, sorry that so many people with power failed you, sorry for having believed Mandelson's lies and appointing him" PM Keir Starmer issues apology to victims of Jeffrey Epstein, adding "we will pursue the truth"https://t.co/ggSOI9OvGc pic.twitter.com/ozWSI2pMk4 BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) February 5, 2026 The catalyst for the massive backlash now? The latest tranche of three million files related to notorious sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which was released by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 30. The January 30 release of the files has renewed the spotlight on Epstein and his relation to Peter Mandelson. Starmer's aide is currently facing a police probe over allegations of his close links to the American sex offender, which reportedly involved sharing sensitive government information with Epstein during the former's time as a Cabinet minister. Just last week, Starmer even defended his December 2024 decision to nominate Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to the US, by saying that he had known about the latter's relationship with Epstein, but that the former minister had "lied repeatedly" about the extent of it. Amid the backlash over the Epstein connection, Starmer apologised to victims of the sex offender for believing Mandelsons lies and said the former minister had betrayed our country in his dealings with Epstein, as per an NBC News report. This led to Starmer's Chief of Staff and longtime aide, Morgan McSweeney, to resign on Sunday, saying that the "decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong" I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice ... (Mandelson has) damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself," McSweeney added. Ahead of the high-stakes general election on Thursday, the streets of Bangladesh witnessed fresh violence. Over 40 people, including women, were injured in the clashes between workers of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami that broke out on Sunday night. The violence broke out after BNP workers accused Jamaat-e-Islami of distributing cash to attendees at a late-night programme. BNP activists protested by arriving at the venue, following which the Jamaat mobilised its own supporters. Since the announcement of the elections, over five people have been injured in campaign-related violence across Bangladesh. The Hindu minorities in the country are also under fear as the election day is nearing. Since the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina government, targeted attacks have taken place against Hindus in the country. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, a group representing minority communities, says it documented more than 2,000 incidents of communal violence since the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina in a mass uprising in August 2024. The attack on Hindus also caused tensions with neighbouring India. India's Foreign Ministry recently accused Bangladesh of downplaying a "disturbing pattern of recurring attacks" on Hindus. Election on February 12 Around 170 million people are preparing for its first election since the 2024 student-led uprising that toppled the Sheikh Hasina government. The 15-year rule came to an end, banning the Awami League from contesting as well. The Muhammed Yunus-led interim government has warned against the circulation of disinformation. Yunus said that there had been a "flood of misinformation surrounding the elections." Bangladeshs economic recovery hinges on the election outcome, as the nation seeks to stabilise key industries and manage large-scale loans from global institutions like the World Bank following a period of intense unrest. Regional geopolitics are also set for a recalibration. With China gaining ground following the departure of the pro-India Hasina, the future balance of power remains uncertain. A BNP victory is seen by some as a win for Indian interests, whereas a Jamaat-led administration might lean toward Pakistandespite the partys claims of neutrality. Krishna Nandi has caught everyone's attention ahead of the elections in Bangladesh, as the Hindu businessman is contesting from the Khulna-1 constituency for Jamaat-e-Islami. A confidant of the Secretary-General of Jamaat-e-Islami, Mia Golam Parwar, Krishna Nandi says the Islamist organisation can represent all sections of society, including minority groups. According to Reuters, analysts say a decisive result in the 12 February voterather than a fractured outcomeis vital for restoring stability in the nation of 175 million after Sheikh Hasina's ouster triggered months of unrest and disrupted major industries, including the garments sector in the worlds second-largest exporter. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is widely expected to win, although a coalition led by the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami is putting up a strong challenge. A new party driven by Gen-Z activists under the age of 30 has aligned with Jamaat after failing to translate its anti-Hasina street mobilisation into an electoral base. BNP chief Tarique Rahman told Reuters his party, which is contesting 292 of the 300 parliamentary seats at stake, was confident of winning "enough to form a government". Who is Krishna Nandi? Krishna Nandi is a seasoned businessman involved in the sale of rods, cement, motorcycles, fertiliser, tin, oil, and sugar, Prothom Alo said in a report. Nandi's association with Jamaat started in 2003 through Mia Golam Parwar, the report added. He has been running his business branches successfully for forty years. He is a native of the Khulna-5 constituency, which covers the Dumuria and Phultala upazilas in Khulna district. Interestingly, this is the seat from which Golam Parwar is contesting. Nandi said that since the senior leader was fielded from the seat where he is registered to vote, the party decided he should contest from Khulna-1 instead. When asked about his relationship with the Jamaat leader, he reportedly said: "I like his ideology. He brought me into politics. My relationship with him is political. It is not a personal relationship." "I will go to Parliament and speak for Hindus. That's why I'm running for office," Krishna Nandi was quoted as saying by Prothom Alo during an interview. Jamaat-e-Islami is a party of principles and ideals and has stood by the side of the Bangladeshi public irrespective of their religion during the difficult period that followed the ousting of the Hasina regime, he said. Hellenic Telecom Organization (OTCMKTS:HLTOY Get Free Report) and Juma Technology (OTCMKTS:JUMT Get Free Report) are both utilities companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, earnings, risk, dividends and valuation. Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for Hellenic Telecom Organization and Juma Technology, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Get Hellenic Telecom Organization alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Hellenic Telecom Organization 0 0 1 0 3.00 Juma Technology 0 0 0 0 0.00 Given Juma Technologys higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Juma Technology is more favorable than Hellenic Telecom Organization. Earnings and Valuation Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Hellenic Telecom Organization $2.10 billion 3.77 $518.11 million $0.63 15.33 Juma Technology N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A This table compares Hellenic Telecom Organization and Juma Technologys top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Hellenic Telecom Organization has higher revenue and earnings than Juma Technology. Profitability This table compares Hellenic Telecom Organization and Juma Technologys net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Hellenic Telecom Organization 15.62% 26.32% 10.20% Juma Technology N/A N/A N/A Volatility and Risk Hellenic Telecom Organization has a beta of 0.12, suggesting that its stock price is 88% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Juma Technology has a beta of 0.5, suggesting that its stock price is 50% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Hellenic Telecom Organization beats Juma Technology on 6 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks. About Hellenic Telecom Organization (Get Free Report) Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A. provides telecommunications and related services to businesses and individuals primarily in Greece and Romania. It operates through OTE, COSMOTE Group, and Telekom Romania Mobile segments. The company offers fixed-line, Internet access, ICT, and TV production services; and international carrier services. It also provides mobile and satellite telecommunication, electronic money, e-commerce, financing, consultancy and security, real estate, insurance brokerage, training, wholesale telephony, retail, marketing, overdue accounts management, wholesale broadband, and infrastructure services. Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A. was incorporated in 1949 and is based in Athens, Greece. Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A. operates as a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom AG. About Juma Technology (Get Free Report) Juma Technology Corp., through its subsidiary, Nectar Services Corp., provides a suite of software services for the management, monitoring, and call routing of an entity's voice and data systems. The company offers Converged Management Platform, an intelligent distributed platform that converges the monitoring of voice and data equipment, and the remote management of the various layers of a client's network and systems infrastructure to provide a view of the health and status of an entire network. Its Converged Management Platform is provided as a service to managed service providers in enabling them to monitor and manage their end-clients' facilities, as well as sold by managed service providers or channel partners directly to IT buyers within businesses and enterprises. The company also provides Enterprise Session Management, a managed services software solution that enables carrier class routing and session management functionality for enterprise or business customers. In addition, it offers a hosted telephony service that allows small to medium sized businesses to gain the features and functionality larger firms without purchasing a corporate private branch exchange. The company provides its software services for voice and data networks through a sales channel program of voice over Internet protocol and data integration firms. Juma Technology Corp. was incorporated in 2004 and is headquartered in Farmingdale, New York. Receive News & Ratings for Hellenic Telecom Organization Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hellenic Telecom Organization and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Penske Automotive Group (NYSE:PAG Get Free Report) is projected to release its Q4 2025 results before the market opens on Wednesday, February 11th. Analysts expect Penske Automotive Group to post earnings of $3.30 per share and revenue of $7.6171 billion for the quarter. Parties are encouraged to explore the companys upcoming Q4 2025 earning overview page for the latest details on the call scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET. Penske Automotive Group Trading Up 3.0% NYSE:PAG opened at $166.69 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a current ratio of 0.97 and a quick ratio of 0.21. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $163.49 and its 200-day simple moving average is $168.94. Penske Automotive Group has a fifty-two week low of $134.05 and a fifty-two week high of $189.51. The stock has a market capitalization of $10.98 billion, a PE ratio of 11.73, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 0.92. Get Penske Automotive Group alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Barclays cut their price target on shares of Penske Automotive Group from $195.00 to $190.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, January 21st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Penske Automotive Group in a research report on Monday, December 8th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Penske Automotive Group in a report on Friday, October 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price target on Penske Automotive Group from $180.00 to $175.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, Bank of America assumed coverage on Penske Automotive Group in a research report on Tuesday, December 9th. They set a buy rating and a $195.00 price objective for the company. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Penske Automotive Group presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $183.71. Insider Activity at Penske Automotive Group In other news, CFO Michelle Hulgrave sold 2,100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $160.17, for a total value of $336,357.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 16,822 shares in the company, valued at $2,694,379.74. This trade represents a 11.10% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 52.40% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Penske Automotive Group Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Acadian Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Penske Automotive Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $42,000. Global Retirement Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Penske Automotive Group by 186.6% in the 4th quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 321 shares of the companys stock valued at $51,000 after buying an additional 209 shares during the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Penske Automotive Group by 506.9% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 880 shares of the companys stock valued at $151,000 after buying an additional 735 shares in the last quarter. Cresset Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in Penske Automotive Group during the third quarter worth $218,000. Finally, NorthRock Partners LLC acquired a new position in Penske Automotive Group during the third quarter worth $260,000. Institutional investors own 77.08% of the companys stock. About Penske Automotive Group (Get Free Report) Penske Automotive Group, Inc (NYSE: PAG), headquartered in Bloomfield Township, Michigan, is an international transportation services company primarily focused on automotive and commercial truck dealerships. The company retails new and pre-owned vehicles across a broad spectrum of brands, while offering parts, maintenance, collision repair and reconditioning services. In addition, Penske provides financing and insurance products through its integrated finance and insurance operations, supporting both retail customers and commercial clients. Formed in 1990 as United Auto Group and publicly traded since 1999, Penske Automotive Group has grown through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions to establish a network of dealerships and service centers across the United States and Europe. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Penske Automotive Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Penske Automotive Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Roger Martinez-Davila says he was suddenly told to prove his US citizenship by the University of Colorado, where hes been working for the last 16 years. It wasnt required of his department colleagues with Anglo surnames Text in which the author defends ideas and reaches conclusions based on his / her interpretation of facts and data An insidious terminology has taken root in the United States: it distinguishes heritage Americans from the rest of us. Its a euphemism for white Anglo-Saxon Protestants and, increasingly, for evangelical nationalists as well. This language is being deployed systematically. In practice, the U.S. Supreme Court has legalized a machinery of control in which ethnicity even how someone speaks, dresses, or what they do for a living can be used as justification for federal officials, quasi-military forces like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), to stop someone and ask for your papers, please. In Minnesota right now, ICEs actions have descended into state terrorraids, arrests, fear in immigrant neighborhoods, and public protestsand have included lethal force, with the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal agents. But this is also happening elsewhere, through new, silent, and publicly invisible processes. On January 5, 2026, after working for 16 years at the University of Colorado, the Human Resources Department emailed me stating that I had not submitted documentation proving my legal U.S. residency or citizenship. The university insisted that I had not provided this documentation when I was hired. I was then required to physically present my proof of citizenship (my U.S. passport) to a university official for verification. I am now a foreigner in my own country. A person is arrested by federal agents on Tuesday in Minneapolis Ryan Murphy (AP) The email used the calm language of bureaucracy. Was it, as they said, a routine internal review that applied to everyone? The important phrase was simple: This step must be completed by submitting original and acceptable documents Copies are not accepted. University staff told me I wasnt being singled out. But none of the Heritage Americans in my History Department, with Anglo and German surnames, were asked to come in and physically prove their citizenship. I was: my surname is Martinez-Davila. And a colleague in my department an employee for over 25 years was also required to produce her papers; yes, she also had a Spanish surname. What are the odds? 100% in the United States. When I shared this publicly on a professional network, a stranger responded with the kind of phrase that normalizes this sort of thing: Nobody cares. Show them the papers and thats it. The demand becomes banal, commonplace. Public humiliation becomes insignificant, something youre told to just endure in silence. Whats so alarming and so disorienting is that Im a descendant of Spaniards with Mexican Indigenous roots. My family founded Spanish San Antonio, Texas, in 1718. My genes tell the truth: 33% Iberian, 16% Sephardic Jewish, and 25% Native American. Who is the Heritage American here? A picture of Alex Pretti at a memorial site in his honor on Sunday in Minneapolis Tim Evans (REUTERS) My familys connection to Texas holds its own set of paradoxes, embodied in Juan Nepomuceno Seguin: my ancestor. Born in 1806, he was a Texan leader in the revolution for independence. And he was at the Alamo. On February 25, 1836, during Santa Annas siege of the Alamo, Juan Seguin was sent by Colonel William B. Travis to request military reinforcements from Texan General James Fannin. Juan was the sole survivor of that unfortunate demonstration of resistance and courage. The rest is history and the origin of our battle cry: Remember the Alamo! Later, he organized the only Texan (Spanish-American) company that fought in the decisive Battle of San Jacinto. Afterward, he returned to San Antonio and oversaw the burials of the Alamo dead. And then the story takes a turn: after serving in the Senate of the Republic of Texas, the growing Anglo hostility toward Texans drove him to flee with his family to their old enemy, Mexico. In other words: the American founding myth includes Spanish-speaking patriots, and in my case, its literally blood as it is for millions of people of Spanish descent. Lets return to the present. In the United States, a person like melike millions of people of Spanish descentcan be required, at any time, to prove their nationality. In Minnesota, the pressure has become visible on the streets. In Colorado, I experienced a quieter version: not a raid, not a checkpoint, but an official email that ends in the same place: hand over your documents. Protesters stage a sit-in at a Target store to protest against ICE, January 31 in Minneapolis Seth Herald (REUTERS) Spaniards know in a way that Americans dont how quickly identity becomes hardened by paperwork. Under Franco, the state mandated the presentation of national identity cards and implemented the requirement to prove ones identity in order to move about in everyday life. Im not saying that the United States is Francoist Spain. I am saying this: when institutions normalize documentary requirementsand when those requirements fall unevenly on certain surnames and certain faces history offers a warning. In the United States, were doing OK for now... until were not. Thats the lie we tell ourselves until the day we cant anymore. Last year I began the process of obtaining Spanish citizenship not only for practical reasons, but also for deeply personal ones. As a professor of the history of medieval Spain and Spanish colonial America, I have dedicated my life to finding and rebuilding that connection with Spain. I feel the pull of Spain as home: my true home. But now love is not the only reason. Necessity is. I wonder if I will need that citizenship not as a symbol but as a refuge, before it is too late. Roger Martinez-Davila is a professor of Spanish medieval history at the University of Colorado. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Martin Marietta Materials (NYSE:MLM Get Free Report) will likely be posting its Q4 2025 results before the market opens on Wednesday, February 11th. Analysts expect Martin Marietta Materials to post earnings of $4.81 per share and revenue of $1.6575 billion for the quarter. Investors can find conference call details on the companys upcoming Q4 2025 earning report page for the latest details on the call scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET. Martin Marietta Materials Stock Performance Shares of MLM stock opened at $689.64 on Monday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $640.15 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $622.79. Martin Marietta Materials has a one year low of $441.95 and a one year high of $693.54. The stock has a market cap of $41.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.35 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 2.97 and a quick ratio of 2.07. Get Martin Marietta Materials alerts: Martin Marietta Materials Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st were issued a dividend of $0.83 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, December 1st. This represents a $3.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.5%. Martin Marietta Materialss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.50%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts have issued reports on the company. Barclays upped their price objective on Martin Marietta Materials from $600.00 to $675.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on Martin Marietta Materials from $610.00 to $631.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, January 29th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Martin Marietta Materials from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on shares of Martin Marietta Materials from $725.00 to $730.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on shares of Martin Marietta Materials from $670.00 to $700.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $676.63. View Our Latest Stock Report on MLM Hedge Funds Weigh In On Martin Marietta Materials A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Martin Marietta Materials by 32.7% during the 3rd quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 3,101 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,954,000 after purchasing an additional 764 shares in the last quarter. Danske Bank A S bought a new stake in shares of Martin Marietta Materials in the third quarter valued at approximately $15,113,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Martin Marietta Materials in the third quarter valued at approximately $72,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its position in Martin Marietta Materials by 45.9% during the third quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 3,374 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,126,000 after buying an additional 1,062 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co increased its stake in Martin Marietta Materials by 6.6% during the 3rd quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co now owns 39,920 shares of the construction companys stock worth $24,774,000 after acquiring an additional 2,477 shares during the period. 95.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. About Martin Marietta Materials (Get Free Report) Martin Marietta Materials, Inc (NYSE: MLM) is a leading producer of aggregates and heavy building materials serving the construction and infrastructure markets. The company operates quarries, sand and gravel pits, and other extraction sites to supply crushed stone, sand and gravel, and a range of value?added products for use in roads, bridges, commercial and residential construction, and other civil engineering projects. In addition to its core aggregates business, Martin Marietta manufactures and sells asphalt, ready?mixed concrete and related materials and services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Martin Marietta Materials Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Martin Marietta Materials and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Zepp Health (NYSE:ZEPP Get Free Report) and American Well (NYSE:AMWL Get Free Report) are both small-cap medical companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, earnings, risk, dividends, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations and profitability. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Zepp Health and American Wells gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Get Zepp Health alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Zepp Health $182.60 million 1.40 -$75.73 million ($4.11) -4.30 American Well $265.02 million 0.28 -$208.14 million ($7.20) -0.62 Analyst Ratings Zepp Health has higher earnings, but lower revenue than American Well. Zepp Health is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than American Well, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. This is a breakdown of current ratings and recommmendations for Zepp Health and American Well, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Zepp Health 1 0 1 0 2.00 American Well 1 6 1 0 2.00 Zepp Health presently has a consensus target price of $64.37, indicating a potential upside of 264.08%. American Well has a consensus target price of $7.58, indicating a potential upside of 68.97%. Given Zepp Healths higher probable upside, equities research analysts clearly believe Zepp Health is more favorable than American Well. Insider & Institutional Ownership 52.6% of Zepp Health shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 56.0% of American Well shares are owned by institutional investors. 36.0% of Zepp Health shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 11.8% of American Well shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Profitability This table compares Zepp Health and American Wells net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Zepp Health -28.28% -21.45% -9.20% American Well -42.80% -39.80% -29.38% Volatility & Risk Zepp Health has a beta of 1.47, suggesting that its share price is 47% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, American Well has a beta of 1.36, suggesting that its share price is 36% more volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Zepp Health beats American Well on 9 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks. About Zepp Health (Get Free Report) Zepp Health Corporation operates as a smart wearable and health technology company worldwide. The company operates in two segments: Self-Branded Products and Others, and Xiaomi Wearable Products. It empowers users to live lives by optimizing health, fitness, and wellness journeys through its consumer brands, Amazfit, Zepp Clarity, and Zepp Aura. The company through its proprietary Zepp Digital Management Platform, which includes the Zepp OS, AI chips, biometric sensors, and data algorithms, delivers cloud-based 24/7 actionable insights and guidance to help users attain wellness goals. The company offers smart bands, watches, modules, and scales; and associated accessories, smart hearable products, sportswear, home fitness equipment, home appliances, and smart watch accessories. It also provides charts and graphs to display analysis of the activity and biometric data collected from users through its Zepp Life and Zepp mobile apps. It offers its products under the Amazfit and Zepp brand names in approximately 90 countries. The company was formerly known as Huami Corporation and changed its name to Zepp Health Corporation in February 2021. Zepp Health Corporation was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Hefei, the People's Republic of China. About American Well (Get Free Report) American Well Corporation, an enterprise platform and software company, delivers digitally enabling hybrid care in the United States and internationally. The company offers Converge, a cloud-based platform that enables health providers, payers, and innovators to provide in-person, virtual and automated care; and delivers virtual primary care, post-discharge follow-up, chronic condition management, virtual nursing, e-sitting, on-demand and scheduled virtual visits, specialty consults, automated care, and behavioral health, as well as specialty care programs, including dermatology, musculoskeletal care, second opinion, and cardiometabolic care to patients and members. It provides Carepoint devices comprising carts, peripherals, tablets, and TVs, which serve as digital access points in clinical settings. In addition, the company offers Amwell Medical Group network services consisting of primary and urgent care, behavioral health therapy, acute psychiatry, lactation counseling, and nutrition services. Further, it provides professional services to facilitate implementation, workflow design, systems integration, and service expansion for its products, as well as patient and provider engagement services. The company sells its products through field sales professionals, channel partners, and value-added resellers. American Well Corporation was incorporated in 2006 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Receive News & Ratings for Zepp Health Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Zepp Health and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Siemens Healthineers AG (OTCMKTS:SMMNY Get Free Report) have received a consensus recommendation of Buy from the seven ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, two have assigned a buy recommendation and three have assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Zacks Research raised shares of Siemens Healthineers from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, January 12th. Royal Bank Of Canada started coverage on Siemens Healthineers in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. They issued a moderate buy rating on the stock. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Siemens Healthineers in a research report on Friday, January 23rd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered Siemens Healthineers from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, December 4th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein raised Siemens Healthineers to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 13th. Get Siemens Healthineers alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Report on Siemens Healthineers Siemens Healthineers Price Performance Siemens Healthineers Company Profile OTCMKTS SMMNY opened at $24.93 on Wednesday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $25.90 and a 200-day simple moving average of $26.66. Siemens Healthineers has a 52-week low of $23.28 and a 52-week high of $30.19. (Get Free Report) Siemens Healthineers AG is a leading global medical technology company that develops, manufactures and distributes a broad range of products and services for the healthcare sector. Headquartered in Erlangen, Germany, the company focuses on diagnostic and therapeutic imaging, in vitro diagnostics and advanced digital health solutions. As a spin-off from Siemens AG, Siemens Healthineers has leveraged decades of engineering expertise to establish a comprehensive portfolio that addresses critical needs in modern healthcare. The companys core offerings include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), X-ray and molecular imaging systems, as well as laboratory diagnostics equipment and point-of-care testing devices. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Siemens Healthineers Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Siemens Healthineers and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Leggett & Platt (NYSE:LEG Get Free Report) is projected to issue its Q4 2025 results after the market closes on Wednesday, February 11th. Analysts expect Leggett & Platt to post earnings of $0.22 per share and revenue of $938.7360 million for the quarter. Individuals can check the companys upcoming Q4 2025 earning summary page for the latest details on the call scheduled for Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET. Leggett & Platt Stock Up 1.6% LEG stock opened at $12.89 on Monday. The company has a market cap of $1.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.01 and a beta of 0.72. Leggett & Platt has a twelve month low of $6.47 and a twelve month high of $13.00. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $11.72 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $10.12. The company has a quick ratio of 1.35, a current ratio of 2.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.54. Get Leggett & Platt alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages recently weighed in on LEG. Piper Sandler boosted their target price on shares of Leggett & Platt from $10.00 to $12.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, December 11th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Leggett & Platt in a research report on Monday, December 29th. Zacks Research cut shares of Leggett & Platt from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, December 5th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating and set a $11.00 price target on shares of Leggett & Platt in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Leggett & Platt from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $11.67. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Leggett & Platt A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Quantinno Capital Management LP increased its position in Leggett & Platt by 208.2% during the second quarter. Quantinno Capital Management LP now owns 1,143,164 shares of the companys stock worth $10,197,000 after acquiring an additional 772,263 shares during the period. Bridgeway Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Leggett & Platt in the 3rd quarter valued at about $5,236,000. Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in shares of Leggett & Platt by 58.9% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 1,186,586 shares of the companys stock worth $10,537,000 after purchasing an additional 439,718 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in shares of Leggett & Platt by 165.5% during the third quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 657,997 shares of the companys stock worth $5,843,000 after purchasing an additional 410,171 shares during the period. Finally, Victory Capital Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Leggett & Platt by 1,461.7% during the third quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 381,549 shares of the companys stock worth $3,388,000 after purchasing an additional 357,118 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 64.23% of the companys stock. Leggett & Platt Company Profile (Get Free Report) Leggett & Platt, Inc is a diversified manufacturer specializing in the design, engineering and production of a wide range of engineered components and products. The companys offerings span several end markets, including residential bedding, commercial and residential furniture, automotive seating and interiors, aerospace applications and industrial products. By integrating product design with proprietary manufacturing processes, Leggett & Platt serves as a key supplier to both original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket distributors. The companys core product lines include coil springs and support systems for mattresses and furniture, adjustable bed mechanisms, engineered components such as extruded and formed metal products, and specialty foam and bedding products. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Leggett & Platt Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Leggett & Platt and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC grew its position in shares of Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER Free Report) by 45.2% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 22,281 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock after acquiring an additional 6,931 shares during the quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLCs holdings in Uber Technologies were worth $2,219,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. First National Bank of Hutchinson purchased a new stake in shares of Uber Technologies during the 3rd quarter worth about $454,000. Chapman Investment Management LLC grew its stake in Uber Technologies by 1.1% during the third quarter. Chapman Investment Management LLC now owns 33,286 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $3,261,000 after buying an additional 360 shares during the period. Alps Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of Uber Technologies by 20.9% in the third quarter. Alps Advisors Inc. now owns 33,455 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $3,278,000 after acquiring an additional 5,781 shares in the last quarter. Arkfeld Wealth Strategies L.L.C. raised its stake in shares of Uber Technologies by 9.2% in the 3rd quarter. Arkfeld Wealth Strategies L.L.C. now owns 2,370 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $229,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the period. Finally, Moloney Securities Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Uber Technologies by 36.8% during the 3rd quarter. Moloney Securities Asset Management LLC now owns 36,179 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $3,544,000 after acquiring an additional 9,730 shares in the last quarter. 80.24% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Uber Technologies alerts: Uber Technologies Trading Down 0.5% Uber Technologies stock opened at $74.80 on Monday. The company has a market cap of $155.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.88, a PEG ratio of 6.32 and a beta of 1.21. Uber Technologies, Inc. has a 1 year low of $60.63 and a 1 year high of $101.99. The firms 50-day moving average is $83.07 and its 200-day moving average is $89.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a current ratio of 1.14. Analysts Set New Price Targets Uber Technologies ( NYSE:UBER Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 4th. The ride-sharing company reported $0.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by ($0.08). The company had revenue of $14.37 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.32 billion. Uber Technologies had a net margin of 19.33% and a return on equity of 43.63%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 20.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $3.21 EPS. Uber Technologies has set its Q1 2026 guidance at 0.650-0.720 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Uber Technologies, Inc. will post 2.54 earnings per share for the current year. Several research firms have commented on UBER. Citigroup cut their price objective on Uber Technologies from $120.00 to $110.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday. Benchmark restated a hold rating on shares of Uber Technologies in a report on Thursday. BNP Paribas Exane initiated coverage on shares of Uber Technologies in a research report on Wednesday, January 14th. They issued an outperform rating and a $108.00 price objective for the company. Susquehanna reiterated a positive rating and set a $110.00 price objective on shares of Uber Technologies in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, Guggenheim restated a buy rating and issued a $135.00 target price on shares of Uber Technologies in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirty-three have given a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $104.94. Get Our Latest Analysis on UBER Uber Technologies News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting Uber Technologies this week: Positive Sentiment: Analysts continue to show support several firms reaffirmed or upgraded ratings and Citi left a buy view (while trimming its PT to $110), keeping sizable upside in street estimates. Read More. Analysts continue to show support several firms reaffirmed or upgraded ratings and Citi left a buy view (while trimming its PT to $110), keeping sizable upside in street estimates. Read More. Positive Sentiment: Large robotaxi expansion with partner WeRide plan to deploy ~1,200 autonomous robotaxis across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh by 2027, reinforcing Ubers AV growth narrative and long-term TAM. Read More. Large robotaxi expansion with partner WeRide plan to deploy ~1,200 autonomous robotaxis across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh by 2027, reinforcing Ubers AV growth narrative and long-term TAM. Read More. Positive Sentiment: Underlying Q4 business metrics remain strong revenue and bookings grew ~20% y/y and free cash flow/reported profitability improved, supporting medium?term fundamentals. Read More. Underlying Q4 business metrics remain strong revenue and bookings grew ~20% y/y and free cash flow/reported profitability improved, supporting medium?term fundamentals. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Corporate moves: Uber appointed a new CFO as it accelerates AV and robotaxi investment operationally important but a longer?dated catalyst. Read More. Corporate moves: Uber appointed a new CFO as it accelerates AV and robotaxi investment operationally important but a longer?dated catalyst. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Legal hit a jury in Arizona found Uber liable and ordered the company to pay $8.5M in a rape suit; the company faces thousands of similar claims, raising reputational and potential financial exposure. Read More. Legal hit a jury in Arizona found Uber liable and ordered the company to pay $8.5M in a rape suit; the company faces thousands of similar claims, raising reputational and potential financial exposure. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Q4 EPS miss and cautious guidance Uber missed EPS expectations and set Q1 EPS guidance below consensus, which triggered the post?earnings selloff despite solid revenue growth. Read More. Q4 EPS miss and cautious guidance Uber missed EPS expectations and set Q1 EPS guidance below consensus, which triggered the post?earnings selloff despite solid revenue growth. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Multiple price?target trims and mixed analyst notes several shops lowered targets (JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, Wedbush, Cantor, etc.) or issued neutral/hold stances, increasing near?term uncertainty. Read More. Insider Activity In related news, insider Tony West sold 3,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.50, for a total transaction of $260,937.50. Following the transaction, the insider owned 176,584 shares in the company, valued at $14,744,764. This trade represents a 1.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah sold 5,500 shares of Uber Technologies stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.41, for a total value of $519,255.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 20,330 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,919,355.30. This trade represents a 21.29% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last three months, insiders have sold 14,875 shares of company stock worth $1,319,130. 3.84% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. About Uber Technologies (Free Report) Uber Technologies, Inc is a technology company that operates a global platform connecting riders, drivers, couriers, restaurants and shippers. Founded in 2009 by Garrett Camp and Travis Kalanick and headquartered in San Francisco, Uber developed one of the first large-scale ride-hailing marketplaces and has since expanded into a broader set of mobility and logistics services. The company completed its initial public offering in 2019 and continues to position its app-based network as a multi-modal transportation and delivery platform. Ubers principal businesses include mobility services (ride-hailing and shared rides), delivery through Uber Eats, and freight logistics via Uber Freight. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UBER? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Uber Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Uber Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. New York Life Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM Free Report) by 31.2% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 151,310 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 35,939 shares during the period. New York Life Investment Management LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF were worth $38,803,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Acropolis Investment Management LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 4.5% in the third quarter. Acropolis Investment Management LLC now owns 134,659 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,361,000 after acquiring an additional 5,813 shares during the last quarter. Strategic Blueprint LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 18.9% in the 3rd quarter. Strategic Blueprint LLC now owns 30,074 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,713,000 after purchasing an additional 4,790 shares in the last quarter. Advocacy Wealth Management Services LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 5.7% during the 2nd quarter. Advocacy Wealth Management Services LLC now owns 88,416 shares of the companys stock valued at $21,248,000 after purchasing an additional 4,752 shares during the last quarter. Beacon Financial Group grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 11.0% during the 3rd quarter. Beacon Financial Group now owns 22,212 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,696,000 after purchasing an additional 2,203 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FLP Wealth Management LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 753.1% during the 3rd quarter. FLP Wealth Management LLC now owns 12,566 shares of the companys stock worth $3,223,000 after purchasing an additional 11,093 shares in the last quarter. Get iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Stock Performance BATS MTUM opened at $253.62 on Monday. The firms fifty day moving average price is $253.77 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $250.58. The stock has a market cap of $18.51 billion, a PE ratio of 28.67 and a beta of 1.02. iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF has a fifty-two week low of $168.49 and a fifty-two week high of $240.99. About iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF The iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Momentum SR Variant index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap US equities, selected and weighted based on price appreciation over 6- and 12-month periods and low volatility over the past 3 years. MTUM was launched on Apr 16, 2013 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MTUM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund (NYSEARCA:EMLP Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $40.99 and last traded at $40.6450, with a volume of 198124 shares. The stock had previously closed at $40.57. First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Stock Performance The company has a market capitalization of $3.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.59 and a beta of 0.65. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $38.66 and a 200 day moving average of $38.26. Get First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Winebrenner Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund by 2.4% in the 2nd quarter. Winebrenner Capital Management LLC now owns 17,223 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $646,000 after purchasing an additional 401 shares in the last quarter. Brian Low Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund in the second quarter worth about $605,000. Rehmann Capital Advisory Group bought a new stake in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund in the second quarter worth about $213,000. Koshinski Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund in the second quarter worth about $333,000. Finally, Mutual Advisors LLC boosted its stake in First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund by 22.8% during the second quarter. Mutual Advisors LLC now owns 32,280 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,220,000 after buying an additional 6,004 shares during the last quarter. First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Company Profile The First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund (EMLP) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Alerian MLP index. The fund is an actively managed fund that invests in North American energy infrastructure MLPs and LLCs. EMLP was launched on Jun 21, 2012 and is managed by First Trust. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:WTS Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $321.74 and last traded at $319.47, with a volume of 2134 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $308.80. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages have recently commented on WTS. Wall Street Zen upgraded Watts Water Technologies from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, January 10th. TD Cowen reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a research report on Thursday, January 8th. Wells Fargo & Company set a $275.00 price target on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a report on Thursday, January 8th. HSBC assumed coverage on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a report on Tuesday, January 27th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a research report on Monday, December 29th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Watts Water Technologies has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $288.57. Get Watts Water Technologies alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on WTS Watts Water Technologies Trading Up 0.3% Insider Activity at Watts Water Technologies The firm has a market cap of $10.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.97 and a beta of 1.24. The company has a current ratio of 2.83, a quick ratio of 1.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10. The companys fifty day moving average price is $287.05 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $278.72. In related news, CAO Virginia A. Halloran sold 605 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $276.78, for a total transaction of $167,451.90. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 13,412 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,712,173.36. This trade represents a 4.32% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, major shareholder Timothy P. Horne sold 6,814 shares of Watts Water Technologies stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $272.32, for a total value of $1,855,588.48. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 15,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,084,800. This represents a 31.24% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 15,605 shares of company stock valued at $4,296,387. Company insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Watts Water Technologies Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wexford Capital LP acquired a new stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies in the third quarter valued at approximately $26,000. MTM Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in Watts Water Technologies during the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. Advisory Services Network LLC bought a new position in Watts Water Technologies in the 3rd quarter valued at $29,000. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. increased its stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies by 156.9% in the 2nd quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 131 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $32,000 after buying an additional 80 shares during the period. Finally, Stance Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies during the third quarter worth $62,000. 95.02% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Watts Water Technologies Company Profile (Get Free Report) Watts Water Technologies, Inc is a global manufacturer and distributor of flow control products and solutions designed to ensure the safe, efficient delivery and use of water. Founded in 1874 and headquartered in North Andover, Massachusetts, the company has built a reputation for engineering innovation in residential, commercial and industrial plumbing, heating, cooling and water treatment systems. Watts operates through a comprehensive portfolio of brands and product lines that address application-specific requirements in water safety, pressure regulation, flow control and filtration. The companys product offerings span backflow preventers, pressure reducing valves, relief valves and steam traps, as well as hydronic balancing and temperature control devices for heating systems. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Watts Water Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Watts Water Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE:WCC Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $319.67 and last traded at $316.3510, with a volume of 14199 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $299.49. Analyst Ratings Changes WCC has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of WESCO International from $274.00 to $302.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, January 12th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of WESCO International from $260.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, January 16th. KeyCorp lifted their price target on shares of WESCO International from $300.00 to $304.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, January 26th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of WESCO International in a research note on Wednesday, January 21st. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded WESCO International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, January 17th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have assigned a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $266.00. Get WESCO International alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on WCC WESCO International Price Performance WESCO International Announces Dividend The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18, a quick ratio of 1.20 and a current ratio of 2.09. The company has a 50-day moving average of $271.82 and a 200-day moving average of $241.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $15.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.95, a P/E/G ratio of 2.00 and a beta of 1.45. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Friday, December 12th were paid a dividend of $0.4538 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, December 12th. This represents a $1.82 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.6%. WESCO Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 14.20%. Insider Buying and Selling In other WESCO International news, EVP Christine Ann Wolf sold 4,685 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $259.52, for a total value of $1,215,851.20. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 30,195 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,836,206.40. This represents a 13.43% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Corporate insiders own 3.30% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of WESCO International Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of WCC. New York State Teachers Retirement System boosted its holdings in shares of WESCO International by 2.1% during the second quarter. New York State Teachers Retirement System now owns 26,295 shares of the technology companys stock worth $4,870,000 after purchasing an additional 539 shares during the last quarter. Applied Finance Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in WESCO International during the second quarter worth about $227,000. Foster & Motley Inc. acquired a new stake in WESCO International in the 2nd quarter worth about $375,000. ARGA Investment Management LP grew its holdings in WESCO International by 125.5% in the 2nd quarter. ARGA Investment Management LP now owns 25,140 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $4,656,000 after buying an additional 13,989 shares during the period. Finally, Bessemer Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of WESCO International by 60.8% during the 2nd quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 2,163 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $400,000 after acquiring an additional 818 shares during the last quarter. 93.75% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About WESCO International (Get Free Report) WESCO International, Inc is a leading global distributor of electrical, industrial, communications and utility products, serving a diverse customer base across maintenance, repair and operations (MRO), original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and construction markets. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of products ranging from power distribution and automation solutions to data communications, security systems and lighting controls. Through an extensive branch network, WESCO provides critical components and value?added services that help organizations streamline operations and improve reliability in their facilities and infrastructure. In addition to its broad product offering, WESCO delivers advanced supply chain management and logistics solutions designed to optimize inventory levels, reduce downtime and lower overall procurement costs. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for WESCO International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WESCO International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Precision Drilling Corporation (NYSE:PDS Get Free Report) (TSE:PD) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $88.32 and last traded at $88.0260, with a volume of 2420 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $83.03. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price objective on Precision Drilling from $110.00 to $117.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Precision Drilling in a report on Wednesday, January 28th. ATB Capital raised shares of Precision Drilling to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating and set a $81.00 price objective (up from $79.00) on shares of Precision Drilling in a research note on Thursday, December 18th. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Precision Drilling from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, October 26th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $99.00. Get Precision Drilling alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on PDS Precision Drilling Price Performance Institutional Trading of Precision Drilling The businesss 50 day moving average price is $72.79 and its 200-day moving average price is $62.44. The company has a quick ratio of 1.42, a current ratio of 1.58 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41. The company has a market cap of $1.14 billion, a PE ratio of 32.73 and a beta of 1.04. Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Precision Drilling during the first quarter worth about $45,000. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its holdings in Precision Drilling by 28.4% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 138,896 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $6,475,000 after acquiring an additional 30,690 shares in the last quarter. Quotient Wealth Partners LLC boosted its stake in Precision Drilling by 41.0% during the 2nd quarter. Quotient Wealth Partners LLC now owns 96,557 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $4,561,000 after acquiring an additional 28,093 shares during the last quarter. Greatmark Investment Partners Inc. grew its holdings in Precision Drilling by 12.6% during the 2nd quarter. Greatmark Investment Partners Inc. now owns 119,604 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $5,650,000 after acquiring an additional 13,415 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Precision Drilling by 20.3% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 65,512 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $3,095,000 after purchasing an additional 11,056 shares during the last quarter. 48.86% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About Precision Drilling (Get Free Report) Precision Drilling Corporation (NYSE: PDS) is a Calgary, Albertabased oilfield services company that has provided drilling solutions since its founding in 1951. With more than seven decades of industry experience, the company delivers contract drilling services, directional and horizontal drilling, well servicing, and a suite of specialized equipment designed to meet the evolving needs of exploration and production companies worldwide. The companys core business activities include operating a fleet of onshore drilling rigs, offering managed pressure drilling, measurement-while-drilling (MWD) and logging-while-drilling (LWD) services, and providing completion and workover rigs. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Precision Drilling Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Precision Drilling and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The historian and Harvard professor reflects on the Republicans second term: His hold on power is extraordinarily tenuous. And when he falls, he will crash Future historians may well look back on the winter of 2026 as a turning point in Donald Trumps presidency and, quite possibly, in the American democratic experiment itself. In August 2017, less than a year into his first term, Trump made clear in Charlottesville that he was prepared to excuse violence by white supremacist groups. On January 6, 2021, he sent a MAGA mob among them armed paramilitary organizations such as the Proud Boys to the U.S. Capitol to stop the certification of an election he had lost. And it is worth recalling that, during his campaign for a second term, Trump warned of a bloodbath should he fail to prevail. In January of this year, he crossed yet another threshold. He ordered Border Patrol agents and ICE officers into Minneapolis, targeting immigrants whom he has accused of eating pets and of poisoning the American blood and moved to suppress the civic movement that emerged in their defense. He labeled protesters professional insurrectionists and threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to suspend their constitutional rights. The operation unfolded with a level of violence and lethality that was striking even by recent standards. Its consequences were irreversible: Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two American citizens, killed by masked agents on the snow-covered streets of Minneapolis, in full view of the world. More than 30 migrants have died in ICE custody. On Monday, January 26, as the historian and Harvard professor Jill Lepore opened the doors of her Cambridge home after a historic snowfall to speak with EL PAIS, footage of Prettis killing was circulating relentlessly. Alongside it were clips of Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and Stephen Miller, the presidents deputy chief of staff, casting Pretti unarmed, shot 10 times in the back as a domestic terrorist. Completing the scene was Gregory Bovino, head of the Border Patrol, who, adopting an aesthetic that evoked an SS nazi officer, claimed that Pretti had sought to cause maximum damage and to massacre law enforcement. As multiple videos viewed by millions of Americans made plain, Noem, Miller, and Bovino were lying brazenly. Minneapolis was being used as a laboratory for militarizing the streets. Lepore, the author of monumental works on American history such as These Truths and We, the People, and whom the critic Fintan OToole has described as the greatest American living essayist, read these scenes as evidence of a society coming apart. She paused work on an urgent essay for The New Yorker , where shes a staff writer, to consider the question that now hangs over American politics: can American democracy survive Donald Trump? Question. From a historical perspective, how do you understand what is happening right now in the U.S., particularly the aggressive actions by ICE and Homeland Security, not only against immigrants but also against U.S. citizens? Is this a new moment in American history? Answer. Its possible to find antecedents for bits and pieces of what has happened during the past year of Trumps second term. Moments like in 1970, when the National Guard was called in to suppress student protests and ended up killing students at Kent State University. But this isnt really like Kent State. Looking for analogies is it like this, is it like that can be a distraction. What we are witnessing is unprecedented in American history. To find true precedents for what has been happening over the past year, we would have to look not to U.S. history, but to the histories of other countries. Q. What kind of countries or regimes come to mind? A. You can look at regimes that use military or militarized police forces to suppress the civil rights of ordinary people. There are many examples of that in the 20th century across the world. That has not been the practice of the U.S. government. Yes, you can point to moments like the Palmer Raids or the Red Scare in the 1920s and 1950s, and before that the imprisonment of Eugene Debs under the Sedition Act. You can always find individual episodes. But this is different. What were seeing now is a convergence: the worst excesses of American imperialism, combined with the worst denials of basic civil rights to Americans, combined with the most vicious and vengeful nativism in American history. If you roll all of that together, you get this administration. As strange as it may sound coming from a historian, I think history has not been very useful here. In many ways, it has been a distraction. Q. In These Truths, you describe U.S. history as both a democratic experiment and an ongoing struggle over who belongs to We the People. Under Trumps second presidency, marked by restrictions on civil rights and repression, how would you describe the current state of that experiment? A. Extraordinarily vulnerable. We are in a moment of deep disarray, on the edge of a political catastrophe if not already in the midst of one. I dont think the situation is irretrievable. What may be hard to see, from outside the United States and even from within, is that the vengeful, violent, and lawless worldview of this administration is not shared by the overwhelming majority of Americans. People may agree with Trumps policy preferences, but even many of his supporters do not see this as consistent with their values. Q. One concern is that extreme situations can become normalized and quickly forgotten. Is there a risk that societys attention span may be too short to sustain the political action needed to produce a correction? A. I share that concern. Im deeply worried about this moment. Were speaking on a day when Minneapolis is snowbound in subzero temperatures, and yet people are out in the streets. A friend wrote to me that her daughter came home from work with her face frozen from tears, just from walking across the city. There is a profound sense of despair. What worries me most is whether the administration will prevail in imposing a false version of events surrounding what are, essentially, two killings in recent weeks, and in insisting that the agents involved enjoy complete immunity from prosecution. That is deeply alarming. At the same time, there is resistance. In Massachusetts, democratically elected officials have called for the impeachment of the head of Homeland Security and for legislation barring immunity for these agents. Many people are saying: this cannot prevail, this cannot be allowed to become normal. But much hinges on what happens next. This week feels like a terrible inflection point. Officers arrest a protester in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on February 5. Seth Herald (REUTERS) Q. Youve written that impeachments tend not to work as a mechanism for accountability for bad public officials, especially the president. How does that history inform your view of the present? A. After the Civil War, there was an attempt to impeach president Andrew Johnson. A constitutional scholar, Francis Lieber, supported impeachment on both legal and principled grounds: the country needed to demonstrate that the people had the power to remove a president who violated the Constitution. The argument against impeachment was that the nation needed to heal, that impeachment would be too divisive after such a devastating war. That argument prevailed. It was the wrong decision. Q. That logic resurfaced in the Trump impeachments. A. Yes. You could argue either way about the first impeachment, which involved the call with the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskiy. But after the insurrection at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, I see no constitutional justification for acquittal. The only explanation is fear of the political consequences for senators themselves. And that fear went beyond electoral calculation. Mitt Romney later wrote that some Republican senators who considered voting to convict had received credible threats against their wives and children. Faced with that choice, they voted to acquit. That doesnt make the decision right. But it suggests we havent yet fully reckoned with what rising political violence and the menace of the most extreme Trump supporters has done to public service in this country. Q. In your work, youve examined how history is mobilized to legitimize exclusionary projects. Under Trumps second presidency, do you see the emergence of an official version of history that normalizes repression? A. Were still waiting to see what kind of history this administration ultimately produces. With 2026 approaching the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. there is an enormous amount of official storytelling underway. The Trump administrations favored vehicle for that storytelling, the America 250 Commission, appears not merely committed to its own version of American history, but aggressively so. The repression of a fuller, more accurate account of the nations past is unlike anything Ive seen in my lifetime. The National Park Service, for example, was instructed to remove any mention of the nine enslaved Africans who lived with and served George Washington at his Philadelphia residence. We are seeing the removal of Native American history from historic sites, the erasure of labor history, immigration history, even basic womens history. Entire histories are being willfully deleted. There is an organization called Save Our Signs that is archiving photographs of historical plaques and museum labels that have been taken down, simply to preserve a record of what had long been part of our civic culture. Q. This goes beyond reinterpretation. It looks like a top-down erasure that clashes with the reality of the United States as a diverse society. A. Yes. Q. Youve often stressed that U.S. democracy has survived crises because certain actors refused to accept inevitability. Where do you see those counterweights operating today? A. We can see many of those actors. The question is whether they are effective, given the power of this administration and the polarization of the country. In Minneapolis, ordinary people are out there with whistles and their phones, documenting and alerting others to the presence and movement of ICE agents. They appear to be extremely well organized and active in large numbers. But there are limits. One is external: Trump-aligned media depict them as violent leftist extremists, as the source of the problem rather than a response to it. What they are doing has not broken through that media wall. The other limit is internal. If people cross into real violence, and I think some would go much further than what weve seen, that would be disastrous. The cases of Renee Good and Alex Pretti involved people attempting to document or interrupt ICE activity. They have been labeled domestic terrorists by the administration, which is absurd and obscene. But others will eventually be caught on camera committing violent acts. When that happens, it will sharply limit what these movements can achieve. Q. Youve also written about conspiracy thinking. How do conspiracy narratives function in moments like this? A. A conspiratorial worldview is extraordinarily appealing when what is happening in the world becomes difficult to explain, especially when people experience large-scale structural changes in their ordinary lives. There was a huge acceleration and spread of conspiracy theories at the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the 20th century. Q. Why were conspiracy theories so powerful then? And why do they seem powerful again now? A. That moment had a lot to do with the massive dislocations of the Industrial Revolution: expanding global trade, changes in financial systems. All of that was explainable sociologically, economically. But for many people, those changes were baffling and not immediately intelligible. Conspiracy theories have the appeal of being dead-simple. If youre living through a confusing moment and want a simple explanation, a conspiracy theory is deeply satisfying. I think were in a similar moment now. Theres a sense that invisible forces literally invisible are driving whats happening in the world, and that makes people feel powerless. So conspiracy thinking becomes appealing: I dont know what the hell is going on well, its a conspiracy. Q. How does that connect to stories like the Epstein case, which is also seen as a vast conspiracy? A. The real horror of that story isnt only the sexual predation, terrible as that is. Its the picture it gives of millionaires and billionaires flying on private jets to private islands, with private chefs and private massages complete contempt for and indifference to the suffering of others. And many of them are elected leaders. The Clintons were on those planes. Faculty from my own university were on those planes. That whole disgusting Epstein class. So if ordinary Americans, suffering through deindustrialization and Rust Belt poverty, believe that a group of extremely wealthy people are enjoying all the fruits of globalization at the expense of their own lives, health, and even life expectancy of 48 years, theyre not wrong. The populist rage has real reasons behind it. Whats contemptible about Trump and Trumpism is taking that rage and redirecting it at immigrants. Immigrants are not responsible for Rust Belt suffering. Blaming people who are even more vulnerable is the classic tactic of right-wing populism. Q. What happens to democratic life when conspiracy and fabrication operate from the center of power? A. Were watching it happen every day. It resembles the way a ministry of propaganda works during wartime. Woodrow Wilson created one during World War I to persuade Americans who opposed entering the war, using posters and radio to depict Germans as savage animals. Whats different now is that we effectively have a ministry of propaganda being used to depict half of the American population as monsters. Q. So is Stephen Miller a kind of propaganda minister? A. I guess so. Q. Is whats happening also connected to racism? A. Its a very effective tool for Trump and his administration. You read reports about ICE recruiting from white supremacist websites. Thats clearly being used. I dont think racism is the sole driver of everything thats happening, but its certainly in Trumps interest to inflame racial hatred. I honestly think he finds it amusing. Q. Lets imagine that you were inside Trumps mind trying to understand what his goals are. What do you see? A. I dont really know. His mind seems disordered, increasingly so. He may be thinking about succession: how to retain power after leaving office. He may be focused on undermining Democratic victories in the midterms, or on Don Jr.s potential 2028 run. He reminds me of someone in my extended family who had a severe mental illness. My mother used to say: This is a person whose mind does not operate by reason. You cant reason out what theyll do next. You just have to brace yourself, because anything could happen. Q. That unpredictability resonates strongly outside the U.S. as well. A. Yes. Exactly. Sometimes youre left asking: what was the point? Its not what you expect. Q. Youve shown how democratic backsliding often comes wrapped in legal language. How should we understand claims that immigration crackdowns are simply law enforcement? A. Its factually untrue. Much of it is lawless. Its also important to say that the Biden administrations immigration policy was a disaster. Americans have wanted immigration reform since the mid-1990s, and no one Obama or Biden included has delivered it. Polling shows that Americans support immigration but want it to be orderly and predictable. They feel the federal government has failed them on that, and thats fair. But do they want whats happening now? Absolutely not. The legal framing is barely a veil maybe lingerie, but not clothing. It exists only so courts have something to cite. Whats happening is gross, indecent, illegal, and unconstitutional. Q. Youve traced the history of data and prediction in politics. In part, because for you the use of data also affects the quality of democracy. A. My new book argues that were witnessing the rise of what I call the artificial state one in which public discourse is dominated by machines owned by corporations. Most people now learn about the world through platforms owned by the three richest people on the planet. Weve surrendered the public sphere to corporations whose interests are purely financial. This coincides with democratic backsliding and the rise of autocrats, and in the long run it may be the hardest thing to reverse. Q. So, technology as a mediator of social life is central to democratic backsliding? A. Absolutely. Q. Is there any way back? A. Europe has to lead. In the U.S., weve given away the store. These platforms are inverted: there are more bots than humans, and people dont see that. Weve essentially accepted rule by machine, which is rule by corporations. Europe is far more concerned about this, even figures like the Pope. I look to Europe to defend human freedom of expression. Q. Younger generations seem especially overwhelmed by this environment. A. Yes. Q. And theres also the ideology of tech elites themselves. A. They dont believe in democracy. My new book traces how they came to reject the state. They believe their power is planetary, even extraterrestrial, and theyve appointed themselves caretakers without being elected. In 2016, Sam Altman from OpenAI said, If I werent in charge, Id be saying, Why do these fuckers get to decide everything? Its still a good question. They know theyve usurped the authority of the state, and theyre happy about it. Q. How have digital platforms altered the visibility of repression? A. Silicon Valley made sweeping promises in the 1990s about democratization through the internet, then again in the 2000s about social media. Hillary Clinton spoke of the freedom to connect. Now the same promises are being made about AI. They were empirically wrong twice already. While these technologies have wonderful aspects, their political effects have been largely malign. Why people believe the story a third time is baffling. Perhaps its amnesia, or normalization. Q. Is overload itself part of the problem? A. Absolutely. Its very hard to get your bearings. People feel theyre living through a historic moment: AI, climate change, the end of the liberal world order. Its overwhelming. And yet, you still have to get up, feed your kids, walk the dog, go to work. Q. Is the liberal world order worth saving? A. Yes, I think so. Why? Because the alternative is so much worse. Its that same, almost Churchillian argument: not that its perfect, but that everything else is worse. Q. Then why, in your view, are so many people around the world supporting authoritarian leaders? A. I dont fully know. But Ive seen interesting scholarship suggesting that, for Americans, their increasingly tenuous connection to democracy and to the liberal world order is partly a consequence of the end of the military draft in 1973. The U.S. military is now entirely volunteer, yet the country has been engaged in long wars Afghanistan, Iraq and in various military operations abroad. These conflicts happen at such a remove from most Americans daily lives. In the past, many members of Congress were veterans or had children in the armed services. Bill Clinton was the first U.S. president who had not served. Eisenhower always warned that it would be dangerous to have presidents who didnt know firsthand the danger of war, the suffering, what real looks like. The military historian Andrew Bacevich has argued that the end of the draft led, a generation later, to the rise of a culture of militarism: Hollywood films like Top Gun, the popularity of first-person shooter video games like Call of Duty, and Second Amendment militia groups who cosplay as soldiers. This distorted relationship to force feeds into what we now see ICE agents with no military training, no ethical formation around the use of force, yet an appetite for playing soldier. There was even a clip circulating recently of someone saying an operation was just like Call of Duty. Its pretending to be in the military without actually being so. Jill Lepore, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 8, 2010. Suzanne Kreiter (Boston Globe via Getty Images) Q. And the gear, the uniforms, the aesthetics. How do you read that? A. I think it reflects a lack of immediate, intimate experience with what it actually means to use force, at home or abroad, in a decent way and in service of democratic ends. Today, its largely the children of the poor who serve, and they serve with integrity. Generationally, theres been a loss of what the United States once understood itself to be a beacon of freedom. My father served in World War II. He lost friends and relatives. He was deeply proud of what that service meant. Honestly, I thank God hes not alive to see what is being done now in our name. Q. You often emphasize the role of fiction and spectacle in shaping political imagination. In a country governed through spectacle, how do films, television, video games, and popular culture reinforce fear and authoritarian narrativesor resist them? A. Theres a whole theatricality to ICE operations. David French, the Times columnist, recently argued that its largely about spectacle. People who support what ICE is doing enjoy watching these confrontations; for others, its heartbreaking. The costumes matter theyre part of the script, almost like a Marvel universe. And then theres outright manipulation. The Guardian reported on a Black woman arrested during a protest. In the original footage, shes dignified, walking in handcuffs. But the Department of Homeland Security released an AI-altered image: her skin darker, her face distorted, crying, defeated. Thats fiction being used deliberately to humiliate. There is potential for counter-narratives, but Im not sure how effective they are. Im not really on social media. Q. Is the fragmentation of a shared reality the core problem here? A. I think fragmentation is a huge problem, and I think it will long outlast Trump. Q. Trump dominates the attention economy almost completely. Is there any way around that? A. Personally, I think people should abandon social media. But thats just me. Q. What do you make of Democratic figures, like Governor Gavin Newsom, who try to imitate the strongman style on social media, as an alternative to Trump? A. When I toured the country with my book on the Constitution, I asked people who they admired in national politics. No one ever said Gavin Newsom. I think he admires himself quite a bit. There are people I admire Bernie Sanders, for example but he doesnt play that gladiatorial game. Pete Buttigieg is often mentioned by audiences like mine: very measured, very disciplined. Newsom seems to be begging for a cage match. And I dont think more cage matches are going to make life better. This is the argument Democrats are always having with themselves: by what means can we regain political power without destroying our integrity? Q. Youve compared this moment to the 1930s just before World War II. Do you see any light at the end of the tunnel? A. In the 1930s, there was a massive effort to revive democracy with town halls, radio forums and panel discussions. Schools got deeply involved. It was a society-wide commitment. But the threat then was largely seen as external fascism, communism, technocracy so Americans felt they needed to fortify democracy together. Today, the threat feels internal: fellow citizens, even the sitting government. That makes it much harder. Still, I honestly believe Trumps hold on power is extraordinarily tenuous. And when he falls, he will crash. Q. You closed a 2019 essay with a warning: Heaven forbid this republic become one mans kingdom. Six years and two failed impeachments later, Trump has entered the second year of his second term. Where do we stand today in relation to those words? We stand both nearer and farther. A. Nearer because Trumps second term has seen far more abuses of power than his first. And farther because the forces aligned against those abuses are gaining strength. Q. In one sentence, how would you define Trumps presidency in historical terms? A. Trump thrives on emergency, traffics in emergency, and craves emergency. His has been an emergency presidency. Q. Finally, speaking to your fellow Americans and readers abroad, who believe democracy must be repaired rather than abandoned. What does history suggest about when reform is still possible? A. History suggests that reform is still possible, but theres a major gap in our knowledge. We know a great deal about how democracies rise and how they backslide. What we dont really understand is how fallen democracies recover and become democratic again. So, in many ways, were going to have to feel our way forward in the dark. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A number of firms have modified their ratings and price targets on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE: GS) recently: 2/6/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at HSBC Holdings plc from $742.00 to $802.00. 2/4/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its neutral rating reaffirmed by analysts at UBS Group AG. They now have a $990.00 price target on the stock. 1/29/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Daiwa Securities Group Inc. from $927.00 to $940.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/20/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $900.00 to $1,030.00. They now have a sector perform rating on the stock. 1/20/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $980.00 to $985.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 1/19/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group was upgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating. 1/16/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its outperform rating reaffirmed by analysts at Evercore Inc. 1/16/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at BNP Paribas Exane from $775.00 to $970.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/16/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Bank of America Corporation from $1,050.00 to $1,100.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/16/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Argus from $863.00 to $1,066.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/16/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods from $971.00 to $1,000.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 1/15/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target lowered by analysts at Autonomous Res from $1,047.00 to $960.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock. 1/15/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $970.00 to $1,050.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 1/8/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $750.00 to $775.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/7/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group was given a new $604.00 price target on by analysts at HSBC Holdings plc. 1/6/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc. from $898.00 to $1,087.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/6/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $785.00 to $980.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 1/6/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Daiwa Securities Group Inc. from $823.00 to $927.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/5/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Barclays PLC from $850.00 to $1,048.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 1/5/2026 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $855.00 to $970.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 12/22/2025 The Goldman Sachs Group had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/17/2025 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods from $870.00 to $971.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 12/15/2025 The Goldman Sachs Group had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/12/2025 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Rothschild & Co Redburn from $608.00 to $748.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 12/12/2025 The Goldman Sachs Group had its price target raised by analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $843.00 to $900.00. They now have a sector perform rating on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, March 2nd will be paid a dividend of $4.50 per share. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $4.00. This represents a $18.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, March 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is 35.09%. Get The Goldman Sachs Group Inc alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, insider Kathryn H. Ruemmler sold 9,589 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $927.51, for a total value of $8,893,893.39. Following the transaction, the insider owned 18,533 shares of the companys stock, valued at $17,189,542.83. This trade represents a 34.10% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CEO David M. Solomon sold 272 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $938.92, for a total transaction of $255,386.24. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 125,527 shares in the company, valued at approximately $117,859,810.84. This trade represents a 0.22% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 87,513 shares of company stock worth $83,718,401 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc is a global investment banking and financial services firm headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1869 as a commercial paper business, the company has grown into a diversified financial institution that provides a broad range of services to corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. The firm is led by Chief Executive Officer David M. Solomon and operates across major financial centers worldwide. Goldman Sachs core businesses include investment banking, global markets, asset and wealth management, and consumer banking. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Inc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Inc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $2.46 and last traded at $2.4550, with a volume of 188223 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $2.51. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have issued reports on the stock. CLSA cut shares of Wipro from an outperform rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Wipro in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Morgan Stanley downgraded shares of Wipro to an underweight rating in a research report on Monday, January 19th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Reduce. Get Wipro alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on WIT Wipro Stock Performance The stock has a market cap of $25.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.54, a P/E/G ratio of 10.02 and a beta of 1.05. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $2.79 and its 200-day moving average price is $2.74. Wipro (NYSE:WIT Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 21st. The information technology services provider reported $0.04 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.04. The company had revenue of $2.62 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.63 billion. Wipro had a return on equity of 15.35% and a net margin of 14.61%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Wipro Limited will post 0.14 earnings per share for the current year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. West Family Investments Inc. raised its position in shares of Wipro by 37.3% during the 2nd quarter. West Family Investments Inc. now owns 533,167 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $1,610,000 after buying an additional 144,972 shares in the last quarter. QRG Capital Management Inc. increased its stake in Wipro by 78.8% during the second quarter. QRG Capital Management Inc. now owns 123,313 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $372,000 after acquiring an additional 54,337 shares during the last quarter. Ethic Inc. increased its stake in Wipro by 20.1% during the third quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 1,244,542 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $3,273,000 after acquiring an additional 208,091 shares during the last quarter. Creative Planning raised its position in Wipro by 21.2% during the second quarter. Creative Planning now owns 3,730,772 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $11,267,000 after purchasing an additional 652,079 shares during the period. Finally, Quadrant Capital Group LLC lifted its stake in shares of Wipro by 60.8% in the 2nd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 1,221,439 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $3,689,000 after purchasing an additional 461,616 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 2.36% of the companys stock. About Wipro (Get Free Report) Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT) is an Indian multinational corporation that provides information technology, consulting and business process services. Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, the company traces its origins to 1945 when it was founded as Western India Vegetable Products and later diversified into technology and IT services. Today Wipro positions itself as a provider of enterprise IT solutions and digital transformation services for large and mid-sized organizations across multiple industries. The companys service portfolio includes application development and maintenance, cloud and infrastructure services, data analytics and AI, cybersecurity, digital consulting, product engineering and research and development, as well as business process services. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Wipro Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wipro and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (NYSE:ASR Get Free Report) and ZTO Express (Cayman) (NYSE:ZTO Get Free Report) are both large-cap transportation companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, risk, dividends and earnings. Profitability This table compares Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste and ZTO Express (Cayman)s net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste 31.96% 20.67% 13.44% ZTO Express (Cayman) 18.61% 14.33% 9.89% Dividends Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste pays an annual dividend of $37.82 per share and has a dividend yield of 10.3%. ZTO Express (Cayman) pays an annual dividend of $0.58 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.4%. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste pays out 200.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. ZTO Express (Cayman) pays out 38.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Risk & Volatility Earnings & Valuation Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste has a beta of 0.56, meaning that its share price is 44% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, ZTO Express (Cayman) has a beta of -0.18, meaning that its share price is 118% less volatile than the S&P 500. This table compares Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste and ZTO Express (Cayman)s gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste $31.33 billion 0.35 $743.97 million $18.86 19.48 ZTO Express (Cayman) $6.07 billion 2.34 $1.21 billion $1.51 15.98 ZTO Express (Cayman) has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste. ZTO Express (Cayman) is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of recent recommendations for Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste and ZTO Express (Cayman), as reported by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste 1 4 2 0 2.14 ZTO Express (Cayman) 0 3 3 0 2.50 Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste presently has a consensus target price of $305.00, indicating a potential downside of 16.98%. ZTO Express (Cayman) has a consensus target price of $22.36, indicating a potential downside of 7.32%. Given ZTO Express (Cayman)s stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe ZTO Express (Cayman) is more favorable than Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste. Institutional & Insider Ownership 10.6% of Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 41.7% of ZTO Express (Cayman) shares are held by institutional investors. 41.3% of ZTO Express (Cayman) shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. About Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (Get Free Report) Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. holds concessions to operate, maintain, and develop airports in the southeast region of Mexico. The company operates airports that are located in the cities of Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, Huatulco, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Villahermosa, Tapachula, and Minatitlan. It provides aeronautical services, which include passenger, aircraft landing and parking, passenger walkway, and airport security services. The company also offers non-aeronautical services, such as leasing of space at its airports to retailers, restaurants, airlines, and other commercial tenants; catering, handling, and ground transportation services, as well as engages in the various commercial operations. In addition, it holds concessions to operate the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and various airports in Colombia, including the Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport in Medellin, the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Rionegro, the Los Garzones Airport in Monteria, the Antonio Roldan Betancourt Airport in Carepa, the El Carano Airport in Quibdo, and the Las Brujas Airport in Corozal. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. About ZTO Express (Cayman) (Get Free Report) ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. provides express delivery and other value-added logistics services in the People's Republic of China. It offers freight forwarding services; and delivery services for e-commerce and traditional merchants, and other express service users. The company was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Shanghai, the People's Republic of China. Receive News & Ratings for Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ultrapar Participacoes S.A. (NYSE:UGP Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $5.16 and last traded at $5.1550, with a volume of 257157 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $5.09. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently issued reports on UGP shares. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Ultrapar Participacoes from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research note on Monday, January 26th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered Ultrapar Participacoes from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $5.40 price objective for the company. in a research report on Thursday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $5.40. Get Ultrapar Participacoes alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Report on Ultrapar Participacoes Ultrapar Participacoes Stock Up 1.1% Ultrapar Participacoes Announces Dividend The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $4.13 and its 200 day simple moving average is $3.88. The firm has a market cap of $5.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.97, a PEG ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.84. The company has a quick ratio of 1.40, a current ratio of 1.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The company also recently announced a special dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 26th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th were given a dividend of $0.1876 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, December 12th. Ultrapar Participacoess dividend payout ratio is presently 59.57%. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ultrapar Participacoes Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of UGP. American Century Companies Inc. grew its stake in Ultrapar Participacoes by 42.4% during the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 2,695,322 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $8,841,000 after acquiring an additional 803,065 shares in the last quarter. Wealthstream Advisors Inc. purchased a new position in Ultrapar Participacoes during the second quarter worth about $46,000. Longfellow Investment Management Co. LLC raised its holdings in shares of Ultrapar Participacoes by 39.6% in the 2nd quarter. Longfellow Investment Management Co. LLC now owns 616,345 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $2,022,000 after acquiring an additional 174,818 shares in the last quarter. Ethic Inc. boosted its position in shares of Ultrapar Participacoes by 42.7% during the 2nd quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 32,797 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $102,000 after acquiring an additional 9,815 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Quadrant Capital Group LLC raised its stake in Ultrapar Participacoes by 1,248.8% in the second quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 497,253 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,631,000 after purchasing an additional 460,388 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 3.58% of the companys stock. About Ultrapar Participacoes (Get Free Report) Ultrapar Participacoes SA is a Brazilian diversified holding company operating in the downstream energy and chemical sectors. Its Ipiranga unit runs one of Brazils largest networks of fuel stations, supplying gasoline, ethanol, diesel and convenience-store products to retail and wholesale customers. Through Ultragaz, the company is a leading distributor of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), offering cylinder and bulk gas solutions for residential, commercial and industrial use across urban and rural regions. In the specialty chemicals arena, Ultrapar controls Oxiteno, which produces surfactants and specialty chemical formulations for industries such as personal care, oil and gas, agrochemicals and coatings. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Ultrapar Participacoes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ultrapar Participacoes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $12.96 and last traded at $12.96, with a volume of 478 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $12.7240. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Stora Enso Oyj in a research note on Monday, January 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $10.80. Get Stora Enso Oyj alerts: Read Our Latest Report on Stora Enso Oyj Stora Enso Oyj Stock Performance The stock has a market capitalization of $10.28 billion, a PE ratio of 12.90 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a current ratio of 1.23, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The firms fifty day moving average is $12.25 and its 200-day moving average is $11.61. Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The basic materials company reported ($0.03) EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.04 by ($0.07). The firm had revenue of $2.66 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.26 billion. Stora Enso Oyj had a return on equity of 3.22% and a net margin of 7.58%. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Stora Enso Oyj will post 0.67 earnings per share for the current year. About Stora Enso Oyj (Get Free Report) Stora Enso Oyj is a Finland?based provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden construction and paper. The company draws on centuries of forest industry experience and leverages sustainable practices to produce a wide array of products, including paperboard for consumer goods, specialty papers for printing and publishing, and pulp for industrial applications. Its portfolio also encompasses wood products such as cross-laminated timber, sawn timber and building components, designed to meet growing demand for environmentally friendly construction materials. Formed through the 1998 merger of Swedish mining and forestry giant Stora and Finnish paper maker Enso, Stora Enso combines deep heritage with ongoing investments in innovation. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Stora Enso Oyj Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Stora Enso Oyj and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Several analysts have recently updated their ratings and price targets for FedEx (NYSE: FDX): 2/5/2026 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Citigroup Inc. from $327.00 to $401.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 2/4/2026 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at UBS Group AG from $314.00 to $412.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 2/3/2026 FedEx was upgraded by analysts at Sanford C. Bernstein from a market perform rating to an outperform rating. They now have a $427.00 price target on the stock. 1/21/2026 FedEx was given a new $271.00 price target on by analysts at Rothschild & Co Redburn. 1/21/2026 FedEx was given a new $355.00 price target on by analysts at Wolfe Research. 1/21/2026 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Argus from $250.00 to $350.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/21/2026 FedEx was downgraded by analysts at Rothschild & Co Redburn from a buy rating to a neutral rating. They now have a $271.00 price target on the stock. 1/20/2026 FedEx was upgraded by analysts at Argus to a strong-buy rating. 1/20/2026 FedEx had its neutral rating reaffirmed by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co.. 1/17/2026 FedEx was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating. 1/13/2026 FedEx was given a new $280.00 price target on by analysts at BNP Paribas Exane. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/9/2026 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Sanford C. Bernstein from $250.00 to $306.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 1/9/2026 FedEx was upgraded by analysts at Bank of America Corporation from a neutral rating to a buy rating. They now have a $365.00 price target on the stock. 1/8/2026 FedEx had its outperform rating reaffirmed by analysts at Wolfe Research. 12/29/2025 FedEx had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/23/2025 FedEx had its price target lowered by analysts at Susquehanna from $345.00 to $340.00. 12/22/2025 FedEx was upgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating. 12/22/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Raymond James Financial, Inc. from $255.00 to $305.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at TD Cowen. 12/19/2025 FedEx was given a new $328.00 price target on by analysts at Stifel Nicolaus. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $265.00 to $290.00. They now have a market perform rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its market perform rating reaffirmed by analysts at Oppenheimer Holdings, Inc.. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Morgan Stanley from $200.00 to $210.00. They now have an underweight rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Truist Financial Corporation from $285.00 to $330.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc. from $315.00 to $326.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Citigroup Inc. from $310.00 to $327.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $290.00 to $295.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at HSBC Holdings plc from $235.00 to $285.00. They now have a hold rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $285.00 to $294.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from $301.00 to $317.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Wolfe Research from $322.00 to $328.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Stephens from $260.00 to $330.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Evercore Inc from $275.00 to $288.00. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Bank of America Corporation from $285.00 to $315.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 12/19/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at TD Cowen from $271.00 to $313.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/17/2025 FedEx was downgraded by analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada to a sector perform rating. 12/17/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from $276.00 to $322.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/16/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Stifel Nicolaus from $297.00 to $305.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/16/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Barclays PLC from $320.00 to $360.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 12/15/2025 FedEx had its hold (c+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/11/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc. from $280.00 to $315.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 12/11/2025 FedEx had its price target raised by analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from $280.00 to $301.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. FedEx Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 15th were issued a dividend of $1.45 per share. This represents a $5.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.6%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, December 15th. FedExs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 31.97%. Get FedEx Corporation alerts: FedEx Corporation (NYSE: FDX) is a global logistics and courier company headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Founded by Frederick W. Smith in 1971 and beginning operations in the early 1970s, the company pioneered overnight express shipping and has since expanded into a diversified portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and supply-chain services. FedEx operates an integrated air-and-ground network that moves parcels, freight and documents for businesses and consumers worldwide. FedExs core operating segments include express parcel delivery via its FedEx Express division, domestic and residential parcel delivery through FedEx Ground, less-than-truckload (LTL) freight services, and logistics and supply-chain management solutions. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for FedEx Corporation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for FedEx Corporation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of Nova Scotia (TSE:BNS Get Free Report) (NYSE:BNS) had its price objective raised by investment analysts at Desjardins from C$104.00 to C$106.00 in a research note issued to investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm presently has a hold rating on the banks stock. Desjardins target price would suggest a potential upside of 0.90% from the stocks current price. A number of other equities analysts have also commented on the stock. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Bank of Nova Scotia from C$95.00 to C$97.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 3rd. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price target on shares of Bank of Nova Scotia from C$86.00 to C$96.00 in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Canaccord Genuity Group increased their price objective on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$98.00 to C$100.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 3rd. TD Securities lifted their price objective on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$93.00 to C$99.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upped their target price on Bank of Nova Scotia from C$93.00 to C$98.00 in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of C$96.08. Get Bank of Nova Scotia alerts: Get Our Latest Analysis on BNS Bank of Nova Scotia Price Performance TSE:BNS traded up C$0.75 on Monday, reaching C$105.05. 1,164,207 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,714,569. The firm has a market cap of C$129.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.53, a P/E/G ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 1.33. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of C$101.05 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$92.21. Bank of Nova Scotia has a 52 week low of C$62.57 and a 52 week high of C$105.20. Bank of Nova Scotia (TSE:BNS Get Free Report) (NYSE:BNS) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, December 2nd. The bank reported C$1.93 EPS for the quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia had a net margin of 17.68% and a return on equity of 9.64%. The company had revenue of C$9.77 billion during the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Bank of Nova Scotia will post 7.1286267 EPS for the current year. Insider Transactions at Bank of Nova Scotia In other news, insider Julie Walsh sold 3,716 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$100.62, for a total transaction of C$373,903.92. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 1,430 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately C$143,886.60. This trade represents a 72.21% decrease in their ownership of the stock. 0.03% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. About Bank of Nova Scotia (Get Free Report) Bank of Nova Scotia is a global financial services provider. The bank has five business segments: Canadian banking, international banking, global wealth management, global banking and markets, and other. It offers a range of advice, products, and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. The banks international operations span numerous countries and are more concentrated in Central and South America. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Nova Scotia and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. National Bank of Canada (TSE:NA Get Free Report) had its price target increased by research analysts at Desjardins from C$180.00 to C$182.00 in a research report issued on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage presently has a buy rating on the financial services providers stock. Desjardins price target suggests a potential upside of 5.97% from the stocks previous close. A number of other research analysts also recently weighed in on the company. Raymond James Financial upped their price target on National Bank of Canada from C$168.00 to C$173.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, December 4th. Scotiabank lifted their price target on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$184.00 to C$188.00 in a research report on Friday, January 9th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$153.00 to C$152.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 25th. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price objective on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$149.00 to C$163.00 in a report on Thursday, December 4th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$172.00 to C$177.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 17th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of C$165.83. Get National Bank of Canada alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on National Bank of Canada National Bank of Canada Price Performance Shares of National Bank of Canada stock traded up C$2.67 on Monday, hitting C$171.74. 388,346 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,522,508. The company has a market capitalization of C$67.03 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 7.14 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$170.73 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$158.56. National Bank of Canada has a one year low of C$106.67 and a one year high of C$177.54. National Bank of Canada (TSE:NA Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, December 3rd. The financial services provider reported C$2.82 earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of C$3.70 billion during the quarter. National Bank of Canada had a net margin of 19.69% and a return on equity of 15.43%. Equities research analysts anticipate that National Bank of Canada will post 10.8360791 earnings per share for the current year. National Bank of Canada Company Profile (Get Free Report) National Bank of Canada is the sixth-largest Canadian bank. The bank offers integrated financial services, primarily in the province of Quebec as well as the city of Toronto. Operational segments include personal and commercial banking, wealth management, and a financial markets group. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for National Bank of Canada Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for National Bank of Canada and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Get Free Report) President Thomas Hassfurther sold 12,129 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $230.50, for a total transaction of $2,795,734.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the president owned 197,062 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $45,422,791. This represents a 5.80% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Packaging Corporation of America Price Performance Shares of Packaging Corporation of America stock traded up $0.11 on Monday, hitting $238.97. The companys stock had a trading volume of 372,014 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,055,905. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 2.00 and a current ratio of 3.16. Packaging Corporation of America has a 1 year low of $172.71 and a 1 year high of $240.79. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $212.18 and a 200-day moving average price of $208.00. The company has a market capitalization of $21.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.89, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.83 and a beta of 0.88. Get Packaging Corporation of America alerts: Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, January 27th. The industrial products company reported $2.32 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.41 by ($0.09). The business had revenue of $2.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.43 billion. Packaging Corporation of America had a return on equity of 19.18% and a net margin of 8.61%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 10.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.47 earnings per share. Packaging Corporation of America has set its Q1 2026 guidance at 2.200-2.20 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Packaging Corporation of America will post 10.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Packaging Corporation of America Dividend Announcement Wall Street Analyst Weigh In The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 14th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th were issued a dividend of $1.25 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, December 15th. This represents a $5.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Packaging Corporation of Americas dividend payout ratio is presently 58.34%. A number of analysts recently issued reports on the company. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on Packaging Corporation of America from $233.00 to $234.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, January 29th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $238.00 to $245.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, December 5th. UBS Group boosted their target price on Packaging Corporation of America from $230.00 to $235.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, January 12th. Truist Financial cut their price target on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $273.00 to $270.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday, January 29th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Packaging Corporation of America in a report on Monday, December 29th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $236.00. Get Our Latest Analysis on PKG Institutional Investors Weigh In On Packaging Corporation of America Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in PKG. Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new position in Packaging Corporation of America during the 2nd quarter valued at about $1,306,000. Atlas FRM LLC lifted its holdings in Packaging Corporation of America by 59.7% in the 2nd quarter. Atlas FRM LLC now owns 535,000 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $100,821,000 after acquiring an additional 200,000 shares during the last quarter. Carnegie Investment Counsel lifted its stake in Packaging Corporation of America by 32.2% during the third quarter. Carnegie Investment Counsel now owns 12,679 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,763,000 after purchasing an additional 3,085 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its holdings in Packaging Corporation of America by 119.9% during the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 1,863,359 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $406,082,000 after buying an additional 1,015,894 shares in the last quarter. Finally, National Pension Service grew its position in Packaging Corporation of America by 25.1% in the third quarter. National Pension Service now owns 46,998 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $10,242,000 after buying an additional 9,444 shares during the last quarter. 89.78% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Packaging Corporation of America Company Profile (Get Free Report) Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE: PKG) is a leading North American manufacturer of containerboard and corrugated packaging products. The company produces a range of paper-based packaging solutions including linerboard, corrugating medium, corrugated shipping containers, retail-ready packaging and point-of-purchase displays. In addition to core packaging products, Packaging Corporation of America offers packaging design, testing and supply-chain services intended to optimize protection, cost and sustainability for customers. Headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, the company operates an integrated network of mills and corrugated manufacturing facilities across the United States and serves customers throughout North America in industries such as e-commerce, grocery and food & beverage, consumer packaged goods and industrial markets. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Packaging Corporation of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Packaging Corporation of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A number of firms have modified their ratings and price targets on shares of Novartis (NYSE: NVS) recently: 2/7/2026 Novartis was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a hold rating. 2/6/2026 Novartis was upgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a buy (b) rating to a buy (a-) rating. 2/5/2026 Novartis had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at Citigroup Inc.. 1/27/2026 Novartis is now covered by analysts at Citigroup Inc.. They set a buy rating on the stock. 1/17/2026 Novartis was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a buy rating. 1/16/2026 Novartis had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft. 1/6/2026 Novartis was upgraded by analysts at Barclays PLC from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating. 1/3/2026 Novartis was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a hold rating. 12/29/2025 Novartis had its buy (b) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/22/2025 Novartis had its buy (b) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/15/2025 Novartis had its buy (b) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. Novartis Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed an annual dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 16th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 11th will be given a $4.773 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 11th. This represents a yield of 312.0%. Novartiss payout ratio is currently 36.31%. Get Novartis AG alerts: Novartis is a Swiss multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Basel that researches, develops, manufactures and commercializes prescription medicines and related health-care products. Formed through the 1996 merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz, Novartis operates globally and focuses on bringing therapeutics from discovery through clinical development to commercial markets worldwide. The companys activities center on innovative pharmaceuticals across several therapeutic areas, including oncology, immunology, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, neuroscience and ophthalmology, alongside capabilities in advanced therapies such as biologics, cell and gene therapies. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Novartis AG Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novartis AG and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wanted in Chile for crimes committed during the dictatorship, he was convicted in the US in 1987 for the 1976 assassination in Washington DC of Orlando Letelier and his young assistant Ronni Moffitt The feeling in Chile is one of astonishment. Armando Fernandez Larios, an iconic former agent of the DINA, Augusto Pinochets secret police (1973-1990), with five extradition requests from Chilean courts for human rights violations during the dictatorship, was arrested in Fort Myers, Florida, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). On January 27 the agency reported his capture, along with 41 other Chilean nationals, on charges of homicide, although the raid took place in October 2025. Fernandez, a 76-year-old former major in the Chilean Army, had been living in the United States for nearly four decades. He participated in the 1976 Washington bomb attack that killed Orlando Letelier, the former foreign minister of socialist President Salvador Allende (1970-1973), and his assistant, Ronni Moffitt. He is considered a former elite agent of the dictatorship and someone who, due to his close ties with the leadership of the DINA, possesses a wealth of information. The lawyer Nelson Caucoto, who was part of the Vicariate of Solidarity, an organization that defended victims and their families during the repression, says that he was a trusted man of [DINA chief Manuel] Contreras and Pinochet. And a man who began participating from the very beginning of the assault on La Moneda Palace, on September 11, 1973. Fernandez is wanted in Chile for the murder of the U.S. citizen Ronni Moffitt and for the July 1976 assassination in Santiago de Chile of Spanish citizen and United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) official Carmelo Soria, committed by a DINA brigade. Francisco Ugas, the plaintiffs lawyer in the case, tells EL PAIS that several witnesses indicate that Fernandez was at the site of Sorias detention, where the diplomat was brutally tortured. That site was a DINA house in Lo Curro, in the eastern part of Santiago, where a couple of iconic agents lived: Michael Townley and the writer Mariana Callejas. Fernandez Larios is also wanted in Chile for the murder of Manuel Sanhueza Mellado in Pisagua, in the far north of Chile, and for his role in the so-called Caravan of Death, led by General Sergio Arellano Stark shortly after the coup. This group murdered 73 political prisoners in various Chilean cities without a trial, including the economist Winston Cabello. Furthermore, in 2005, Chilean authorities requested Fernandezs extradition for the 1973 disappearance of civil engineer David Silberman. In 2003, the Federal Court of Miami found him legally responsible, following a civil lawsuit, for the murder of Winston Cabello in October 1973 in Copiapo, in northern Chile. There had been no news of him since then, until his arrest was made public at the end of January of this year. Pinochet and Leteliers widow Part of what has surprised people in Chile about his arrest by ICE is that Fernandez Larios had supposedly been under legal protection in the United States since 1987. That year he secretly fled Chile amid a judicial investigation. He provided a lot of information there [in the U.S.], says human rights lawyer Luciano Foullioux. He obtained benefits through this cooperation, pleading guilty to covering up the murders of Letelier and Moffitt. He was detained for only five months and confessed to obtain a reduced sentence, just as did Townley, the perpetrator of the double murder in Washington. He also has legal protection, which was ratified in 2015. A witness in that trial in Washington, in May 1987, was the Chilean ambassador to the United States, Juan Gabriel Valdes, who in 1976, while in exile in the United States, worked alongside Letelier. Valdes recalls to EL PAIS a chilling scene that occurred in the courtroom when the former agent confessed. Orlando Leteliers widow, Isabel Margarita Morel, was present at the hearing, accompanied by Valdes. It was a packed courtroom. Fernandez Larios was standing. Suddenly, the judge said: Mrs. Isabel is here. The accused has admitted responsibility and participation in the murder of her husband and asks for your forgiveness. And Leteliers widow said: I am a Christian, and I forgive him. But I must also say, Your Honor, that the person responsible for my husbands murder is not in this room; he is in La Moneda Palace, and his name is Augusto Pinochet. The assassination of Letelier was also tried in Chile during the complex early years of the democratic transition. The investigation was conducted by Judge Adolfo Banados, who died on February 1st at the age of 103, six days after Fernandez Larios capture became public. In 1993, the judge handed down the first two convictions for human rights violations committed during the dictatorship, against Contreras and Brigadier Pedro Espinoza, his second-in-command. Both were imprisoned, after resisting arrest, at Punta Peuco prison in 1995. Judge Banados was an extraordinarily courageous man. I am certain that he would have imprisoned and convicted Fernandez Larios, former Socialist Senator Juan Pablo Letelier, son of Allendes former foreign minister, told this newspaper. Armando Fernandez Larios en una foto de archivo. MEMORIA VIVA He was the DINAs favorite The capture of Fernandez, like many others, has surprised Juan Pablo Letelier. He was one of the agents favored and promoted by the DINA. He was young at the time of the coup [23 years old], but he immediately joined the security teams and was part of the Caravan of Death. He deserted the DINA and entered the United States witness protection program, which I understand is for life. Thats why his arrest is so strange. The Letelier assassination was the second of three operations carried out by the DINAs foreign intelligence department in the early years of Pinochets dictatorship. In 1975, agents attempted to assassinate Bernardo Leighton, former Minister of the Interior under Christian Democratic President Eduardo Frei Montalva (1964-1970), and his wife, Anita Fresno, in Rome; they survived with serious injuries. A year earlier, in 1974, the DINA assassinated the former Commander-in-Chief of the Army, Constitutionalist General Carlos Prats, and his wife, Sofia Cuthbert, in Buenos Aires; they died when a bomb exploded in their car. In 2002, Argentine Judge Maria Servini de Cubria attempted to question Fernandez Larios and requested his extradition, but it was not granted. In Chile, those convicted included Contreras, Espinoza, Callejas, and Jose Zara, a former military officer who was arrested in August 2025 in connection with the Ronni Moffitt case. Townley, meanwhile, confessed to Judge Servini in 1999 that he was the perpetrator of the attack in Argentina. Following the arrest of the former agent, Hernan Quezada, the lawyer for the three daughters of the Prats Cuthbert couple, told this newspaper that he is closely monitoring the case. In 2010, Chilean Judge Alejandro Solis handed down six convictions, and Fernandez Larios is mentioned more than 100 times in the ruling for his ties to the DINAs foreign department. Since his arrest was made public, lawyers and family members of those wanted in Chile for the crimes for which the former DINA agent is being sought have been on high alert. Francisco Ugaz says that if he returns to Chile, there are several other cases in which he is implicated. However, because he lives in the United States, legal proceedings have stalled. Juan Pablo Letelier also hopes that he will be tried in Chile: Justice is slow There are many families in Chile who were victims of the Caravan of Death and they want justice; in the case of Carmelo Soria, they also want justice. Armando Fernandez Larios should never have been free in the United States. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition i-80 Gold Corp. (NYSE:IAUX Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as $1.96 and last traded at $2.0050, with a volume of 1281420 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1.88. i-80 Gold Trading Up 6.6% The stock has a market capitalization of $1.66 billion, a P/E ratio of -5.57 and a beta of 1.18. The company has a quick ratio of 0.22, a current ratio of 0.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $1.55 and its 200-day moving average price is $1.11. Get i-80 Gold alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, Director John William Seaman acquired 20,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 9th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $1.30 per share, for a total transaction of $26,000.00. Following the transaction, the director owned 346,942 shares in the company, valued at approximately $451,024.60. This trade represents a 6.12% increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders purchased a total of 55,000 shares of company stock valued at $62,150 in the last 90 days. 2.08% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of i-80 Gold i-80 Gold Company Profile Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. AQR Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in i-80 Gold by 1,345.4% in the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 195,706 shares of the companys stock valued at $114,000 after purchasing an additional 182,166 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in i-80 Gold by 40.3% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 3,436,918 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,000,000 after purchasing an additional 987,083 shares in the last quarter. Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of i-80 Gold by 257.6% during the second quarter. Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC now owns 67,018 shares of the companys stock worth $40,000 after purchasing an additional 48,279 shares during the last quarter. TD Asset Management Inc increased its position in i-80 Gold by 131.6% during the second quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 1,022,947 shares of the companys stock worth $630,000 after buying an additional 581,200 shares during the period. Finally, Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in i-80 Gold in the 2nd quarter valued at $127,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 61.31% of the companys stock. (Get Free Report) i-80 Gold Corp. is a Canadian-focused gold exploration, development and production company with a strategic emphasis on precious metal assets in the state of Nevada, USA. The company pursues a district-scale approach, seeking to consolidate under-explored gold belts and advance resource-stage projects toward commercial production. Its core objective is to build a balanced portfolio of operating and development assets that generate cash flow while supporting ongoing exploration. The companys flagship asset is the 100%-owned Ruby Hill complex in Humboldt County, Nevada, which encompasses multiple gold and silver deposits at various stages of technical study and permitting. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for i-80 Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for i-80 Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:MHVYF Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $32.78 and last traded at $32.19, with a volume of 4971 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $30.00. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Separately, Zacks Research downgraded shares of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Wednesday, January 21st. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries presently has an average rating of Hold. Get Mitsubishi Heavy Industries alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on MHVYF Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Trading Up 1.0% The firm has a market capitalization of $109.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 57.73 and a beta of 0.47. The company has a quick ratio of 0.97, a current ratio of 1.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $27.36 and a 200-day moving average of $26.86. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (OTCMKTS:MHVYF Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 4th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.13 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $7.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.86 billion. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries had a return on equity of 11.07% and a net margin of 5.21%. About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Get Free Report) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is a diversified Japanese industrial conglomerate engaged in the design, manufacture and servicing of large-scale capital equipment and systems. The companys activities span shipbuilding and marine propulsion; power and energy systems including gas turbines, boilers and related power-plant equipment; and industrial machinery for sectors ranging from chemicals and manufacturing to environmental control. MHI also supplies heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems and other building-related equipment for commercial and industrial customers. In addition to its heavy engineering businesses, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is a major participant in aerospace, space and defense markets. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Regions Financial (NYSE:RF Get Free Report) had its price target hoisted by research analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $29.00 to $31.50 in a note issued to investors on Monday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has a neutral rating on the banks stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s target price would indicate a potential upside of 2.36% from the stocks current price. Several other equities analysts also recently weighed in on RF. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Regions Financial in a research note on Monday, December 29th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $31.00 target price on shares of Regions Financial in a research report on Tuesday, January 20th. Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of Regions Financial from $26.00 to $29.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Monday, December 22nd. Wells Fargo & Company downgraded Regions Financial from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and set a $30.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Friday, January 16th. Finally, Stephens restated an equal weight rating and set a $27.00 target price (down previously from $30.00) on shares of Regions Financial in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and three have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $29.84. Get Regions Financial alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on RF Regions Financial Price Performance Shares of RF stock traded down $0.16 on Monday, reaching $30.78. The company had a trading volume of 6,503,811 shares, compared to its average volume of 15,511,571. The businesss 50-day moving average is $27.85 and its 200 day moving average is $26.39. The stock has a market capitalization of $26.99 billion, a PE ratio of 13.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.10 and a beta of 1.04. Regions Financial has a one year low of $17.74 and a one year high of $31.17. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. Regions Financial (NYSE:RF Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 16th. The bank reported $0.57 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.61 by ($0.04). Regions Financial had a net margin of 22.44% and a return on equity of 12.55%. The company had revenue of $1.92 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.94 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.56 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts forecast that Regions Financial will post 2.26 EPS for the current fiscal year. Regions Financial announced that its board has approved a share repurchase program on Wednesday, December 10th that authorizes the company to repurchase $3.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the bank to repurchase up to 12.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are generally a sign that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Insider Buying and Selling In other Regions Financial news, EVP William D. Ritter sold 36,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $28.78, for a total transaction of $1,036,080.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 17,569 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $505,635.82. This trade represents a 67.20% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Insiders own 0.29% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of Regions Financial Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Darwin Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in Regions Financial during the 2nd quarter worth about $25,000. CVA Family Office LLC boosted its position in Regions Financial by 163.2% during the second quarter. CVA Family Office LLC now owns 1,058 shares of the banks stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 656 shares during the last quarter. United Community Bank acquired a new stake in Regions Financial during the third quarter worth about $30,000. Spire Wealth Management boosted its position in Regions Financial by 91.5% in the 4th quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 1,166 shares of the banks stock valued at $32,000 after buying an additional 557 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Princeton Global Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Regions Financial by 260.4% during the 4th quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 1,182 shares of the banks stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 854 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.39% of the companys stock. About Regions Financial (Get Free Report) Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE: RF) is a U.S. bank holding company headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, that provides a broad range of banking and financial services. Its primary banking subsidiary, Regions Bank, serves retail and commercial customers through a combination of branch and ATM networks, digital channels and relationship-based delivery. The company offers deposit accounts, consumer and commercial loans, mortgage origination and servicing, and payment and treasury services. In addition to core banking, Regions offers wealth management, trust and brokerage services, insurance solutions, and capital markets capabilities to corporate and institutional clients. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Regions Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Regions Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Several brokerages have updated their recommendations and price targets on shares of Copa (NYSE: CPA) in the last few weeks: 2/9/2026 Copa had its overweight rating reaffirmed by analysts at Morgan Stanley. They now have a $190.00 price target on the stock. 2/8/2026 Copa was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a buy rating. 1/31/2026 Copa was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a hold rating. 1/21/2026 Copa had its buy (b) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 1/4/2026 Copa was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating. 12/27/2025 Copa was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating. Copa Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st were given a dividend of $1.61 per share. This represents a $6.44 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, December 1st. Copas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 40.05%. Get Copa Holdings SA alerts: Copa Holdings, SA (NYSE:CPA) is a Panama?based aviation holding company that provides passenger and cargo air transportation across the Americas and the Caribbean. Through its principal subsidiary, Copa Airlines, the company operates a modern fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, offering scheduled flights that connect passengers through its Tocumen International Airport hub in Panama City. The company also offers dedicated cargo services under the Copa Cargo brand, leveraging belly hold capacity on its passenger flights to transport freight throughout its network. The roots of Copa Holdings trace back to 1947, when Compania Panamena de Aviacion began operations as the flag carrier of Panama. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Copa Holdings SA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Copa Holdings SA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:HEWJ Get Free Report) saw an uptick in trading volume on Monday . 41,704 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 10% from the previous sessions volume of 46,346 shares.The stock last traded at $59.0290 and had previously closed at $58.66. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Stock Up 1.4% The companys fifty day moving average price is $54.57 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $51.70. The company has a market cap of $565.35 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.45 and a beta of 0.49. Get iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd grew its holdings in shares of iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF by 0.3% during the second quarter. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd now owns 89,530 shares of the companys stock worth $4,010,000 after purchasing an additional 228 shares during the last quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors acquired a new position in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF during the 2nd quarter worth about $201,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF by 7,286.6% during the 3rd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 155,119 shares of the companys stock worth $7,642,000 after buying an additional 153,019 shares in the last quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets bought a new stake in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF during the 3rd quarter worth about $379,000. Finally, SBI Securities Co. Ltd. increased its position in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF by 34.1% in the 4th quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 857 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,000 after acquiring an additional 218 shares in the last quarter. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Company Profile The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (HEWJ) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in total market equity. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap Japanese stocks, while fully hedging out its exposure to the yen relative to the US dollar. HEWJ was launched on Jan 31, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sweetgreen, Inc. (NYSE:SG Get Free Report)s stock price traded down 6.1% during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $5.74 and last traded at $5.7080. 791,060 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 81% from the average session volume of 4,184,569 shares. The stock had previously closed at $6.08. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts recently commented on the stock. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on shares of Sweetgreen from $10.00 to $9.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, January 20th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on Sweetgreen from $5.00 to $5.60 and gave the stock a sell rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 28th. UBS Group lowered Sweetgreen from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $7.50 target price on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, January 6th. Barclays boosted their target price on Sweetgreen from $5.00 to $7.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 7th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Sweetgreen in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $10.83. Get Sweetgreen alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Sweetgreen Sweetgreen Stock Performance The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $6.93 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $7.91. The company has a market capitalization of $668.79 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.82 and a beta of 1.92. Sweetgreen (NYSE:SG Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported ($0.31) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.18) by ($0.13). The firm had revenue of $172.39 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $179.29 million. Sweetgreen had a negative return on equity of 25.67% and a negative net margin of 16.55%.The companys revenue was down .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned ($0.18) earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Sweetgreen, Inc. will post -0.74 EPS for the current fiscal year. Insider Activity In other news, CEO Jonathan Neman acquired 179,800 shares of Sweetgreen stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $5.56 per share, with a total value of $999,688.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the chief executive officer owned 179,800 shares in the company, valued at $999,688. This trade represents a ? increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Nicolas Jammet acquired 18,115 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $5.51 per share, for a total transaction of $99,813.65. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 18,115 shares in the company, valued at approximately $99,813.65. This represents a ? increase in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. 19.78% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Teacher Retirement System of Texas lifted its stake in shares of Sweetgreen by 5.8% during the second quarter. Teacher Retirement System of Texas now owns 15,981 shares of the companys stock valued at $238,000 after buying an additional 877 shares during the period. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Sweetgreen by 98.2% in the second quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,129 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 1,055 shares in the last quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey raised its stake in shares of Sweetgreen by 5.5% in the 2nd quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 23,212 shares of the companys stock valued at $345,000 after acquiring an additional 1,209 shares during the period. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. lifted its stake in shares of Sweetgreen by 4.9% during the second quarter. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. now owns 39,912 shares of the companys stock worth $594,000 after purchasing an additional 1,870 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc purchased a new position in Sweetgreen in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $30,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 95.75% of the companys stock. About Sweetgreen (Get Free Report) Sweetgreen, Inc is a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in salads, grain bowls and warm bowls that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Since its founding in 2007 by Jonathan Neman, Nicolas Jammet and Nathaniel Ru, Sweetgreen has focused on sustainable agriculture, working with regional farmers across the United States to provide seasonal produce and promote environmentally responsible sourcing practices. The companys menu features a variety of plant-forward options, including custom-build salads, chef-curated bowls and limited-time offerings that reflect changing harvests. Sweetgreen operates a technology-driven service model that combines in-store experiences with digital ordering through its mobile app and website. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Sweetgreen Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sweetgreen and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Manitowoc (NYSE:MTW Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings data on Monday. The industrial products company reported $0.26 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.27 by ($0.01), FiscalAI reports. Manitowoc had a net margin of 2.63% and a return on equity of 0.87%. Manitowoc Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:MTW traded down $0.17 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $14.86. 378,555 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 239,194. The firm has a market capitalization of $527.08 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.35 and a beta of 1.88. Manitowoc has a 12 month low of $7.06 and a 12 month high of $15.20. The firms fifty day moving average price is $12.99 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $11.49. The company has a quick ratio of 0.66, a current ratio of 2.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70. Get Manitowoc alerts: Institutional Trading of Manitowoc Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Intech Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in Manitowoc by 20.9% in the third quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC now owns 13,752 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $138,000 after buying an additional 2,376 shares during the last quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its position in shares of Manitowoc by 131.0% during the second quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 4,541 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $55,000 after buying an additional 2,575 shares during the period. PDT Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Manitowoc by 6.3% during the second quarter. PDT Partners LLC now owns 55,284 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $665,000 after buying an additional 3,277 shares during the period. Quantbot Technologies LP purchased a new stake in shares of Manitowoc during the third quarter valued at about $47,000. Finally, Jacobs Levy Equity Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Manitowoc by 1.2% during the third quarter. Jacobs Levy Equity Management Inc. now owns 397,798 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,982,000 after buying an additional 4,743 shares during the period. 78.66% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on the company. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an underweight rating and issued a $10.00 target price (up from $9.00) on shares of Manitowoc in a research note on Friday, January 23rd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Manitowoc in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Manitowoc from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Manitowoc presently has an average rating of Reduce and an average price target of $10.50. Read Our Latest Report on MTW Manitowoc Company Profile (Get Free Report) The Manitowoc Company, Inc (NYSE: MTW) is a global manufacturer of heavy-lift cranes and lifting equipment. The companys product portfolio includes tower cranes marketed under the Potain brand, mobile hydraulic cranes sold under the Grove, Manitowoc and National Crane names, and engineered lifting solutions such as mast climbers and platform hoists. Manitowoc serves a wide range of industries, including construction, infrastructure, energy and industrial markets. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Manitowoc operates manufacturing facilities, sales offices and rental centers across North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Manitowoc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manitowoc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Unitil (NYSE:UTL Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday. The utilities provider reported $1.13 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.03 by $0.10, Zacks reports. Unitil had a net margin of 9.32% and a return on equity of 9.04%. Unitil Stock Up 0.6% Shares of Unitil stock traded up $0.31 during trading on Monday, reaching $50.88. The stock had a trading volume of 107,089 shares, compared to its average volume of 85,499. Unitil has a 52 week low of $44.61 and a 52 week high of $59.99. The company has a current ratio of 0.67, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $49.45 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $48.61. The company has a market capitalization of $911.82 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.61 and a beta of 0.49. Get Unitil alerts: Unitil Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 27th. Investors of record on Thursday, February 12th will be given a $0.475 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 12th. This represents a $1.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.7%. This is an increase from Unitils previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. Unitils payout ratio is presently 62.28%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of brokerages recently weighed in on UTL. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Unitil from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, December 6th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Unitil in a research report on Monday, December 29th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $55.00. View Our Latest Analysis on Unitil Institutional Investors Weigh In On Unitil Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new stake in Unitil during the 3rd quarter worth about $29,000. Quarry LP bought a new position in Unitil in the third quarter valued at approximately $32,000. State of Wyoming bought a new position in Unitil in the second quarter valued at approximately $103,000. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC raised its stake in shares of Unitil by 207.5% during the 2nd quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 2,257 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $118,000 after purchasing an additional 1,523 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Virtus Advisers LLC bought a new stake in shares of Unitil during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $200,000. 76.76% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. About Unitil (Get Free Report) Unitil Corporation (NYSE: UTL) is a publicly traded energy delivery company that provides regulated electric and natural gas distribution services. The company delivers energy to residential, commercial and industrial customers through a network of distribution systems, offering safe and reliable service across its service areas. Unitils operations include system maintenance, emergency response, meter reading and customer support functions, all governed by state regulatory commissions. Headquartered in Hampton, New Hampshire, Unitil serves communities in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Maine. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Unitil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Unitil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of iShares Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEV Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $73.14 and last traded at $73.17, with a volume of 99971 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $72.52. iShares Europe ETF Stock Performance The companys fifty day moving average price is $69.55 and its 200-day moving average price is $66.64. The stock has a market cap of $1.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.48 and a beta of 0.91. Get iShares Europe ETF alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Flow Traders U.S. LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Europe ETF in the second quarter worth approximately $59,097,000. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. grew its position in iShares Europe ETF by 3,397.8% in the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 789,809 shares of the companys stock valued at $54,181,000 after acquiring an additional 767,229 shares during the last quarter. Jane Street Group LLC increased its stake in iShares Europe ETF by 121.3% in the second quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 358,224 shares of the companys stock worth $22,658,000 after purchasing an additional 196,368 shares during the period. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of iShares Europe ETF during the second quarter worth $12,411,000. Finally, Black Swift Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Europe ETF during the second quarter valued at $11,131,000. About iShares Europe ETF iShares Europe ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P Europe 350 Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P Europe 350 (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the stocks of companies in the countries, which includes Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A number of research firms have changed their ratings and price targets for Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG): 1/27/2026 Procter & Gamble was downgraded by analysts at TD Cowen from a buy rating to a hold rating. They now have a $156.00 price target on the stock, up previously from $150.00. 1/23/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target raised by analysts at UBS Group AG from $161.00 to $170.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/23/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target raised by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $158.00 to $165.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 1/23/2026 Procter & Gamble was upgraded by analysts at Dbs Bank from a hold rating to a buy rating. 1/23/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target raised by analysts at Rothschild & Co Redburn from $155.00 to $157.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 1/23/2026 Procter & Gamble was upgraded by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from a neutral rating to an overweight rating. They now have a $165.00 price target on the stock, up previously from $157.00. 1/16/2026 Procter & Gamble was given a new $155.00 price target on by analysts at Barclays PLC. 1/16/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target lowered by analysts at BNP Paribas Exane from $172.00 to $164.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock. 1/14/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target lowered by analysts at UBS Group AG from $176.00 to $161.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/8/2026 Procter & Gamble had its buy rating reaffirmed by analysts at TD Cowen. 1/8/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target lowered by analysts at TD Cowen from $168.00 to $150.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock. 1/7/2026 Procter & Gamble is now covered by analysts at Piper Sandler. They set a neutral rating and a $150.00 price target on the stock. 1/5/2026 Procter & Gamble had its price target lowered by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $170.00 to $158.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock. 12/29/2025 Procter & Gamble had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/22/2025 Procter & Gamble had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. 12/18/2025 Procter & Gamble had its price target lowered by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $165.00 to $157.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock. 12/16/2025 Procter & Gamble was upgraded by analysts at Jefferies Financial Group Inc. from a hold rating to a buy rating. They now have a $179.00 price target on the stock, up previously from $156.00. 12/15/2025 Procter & Gamble had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings. Procter & Gamble Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, February 17th. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 23rd will be issued a $1.0568 dividend. This represents a $4.23 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 23rd. Procter & Gambles dividend payout ratio is 62.67%. Get Procter & Gamble Company (The) alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other Procter & Gamble news, insider Marc S. Pritchard sold 95,903 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $151.15, for a total value of $14,495,738.45. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 182,607 shares in the company, valued at approximately $27,601,048.05. This represents a 34.43% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Ma. Fatima Francisco sold 8,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $158.00, for a total transaction of $1,264,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 6,571 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,038,218. This represents a 54.90% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Company insiders own 0.20% of the companys stock. Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) is a multinational consumer goods company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1837 by William Procter and James Gamble, P&G has grown into one of the worlds largest producers of branded consumer packaged goods. The company focuses on developing, manufacturing and marketing a broad portfolio of household and personal care products sold to consumers and retailers worldwide. P&Gs product offering spans several core business categories, including Beauty, Grooming, Health Care, Fabric & Home Care, and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Procter & Gamble Company (The) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Procter & Gamble Company (The) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kemper Corporation (NYSE:KMPR Get Free Report) Director Suzet Mckinney sold 504 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, February 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.66, for a total transaction of $17,468.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 5,060 shares of the companys stock, valued at $175,379.60. This represents a 9.06% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Kemper Stock Performance Shares of KMPR traded down $0.05 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $34.19. 1,274,342 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 914,098. Kemper Corporation has a twelve month low of $30.05 and a twelve month high of $69.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 0.18 and a quick ratio of 0.19. The company has a market capitalization of $2.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.61 and a beta of 1.14. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $39.48 and its 200 day moving average price is $45.91. Get Kemper alerts: Kemper (NYSE:KMPR Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The insurance provider reported $0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.85 by ($0.60). Kemper had a return on equity of 8.02% and a net margin of 2.99%.The firm had revenue of $1.13 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.22 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.78 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was down 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Kemper Corporation will post 6.03 EPS for the current fiscal year. Kemper Dividend Announcement Institutional Investors Weigh In On Kemper The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 3rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 17th will be issued a $0.32 dividend. This represents a $1.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, February 17th. Kempers payout ratio is presently 58.45%. Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Brighton Jones LLC acquired a new position in Kemper during the second quarter worth about $490,000. Moran Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Kemper in the second quarter worth $608,000. Versor Investments LP purchased a new stake in shares of Kemper in the second quarter valued at $1,870,000. Bryce Point Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Kemper during the second quarter valued at $742,000. Finally, Integrated Quantitative Investments LLC purchased a new stake in Kemper during the 2nd quarter worth about $976,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 86.23% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts have issued reports on the stock. William Blair downgraded shares of Kemper from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Thursday, December 18th. Zacks Research raised Kemper from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, January 23rd. Citigroup cut Kemper to a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday. UBS Group set a $56.00 price objective on Kemper in a research report on Monday. Finally, Citizens Jmp downgraded Kemper from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have issued a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Kemper presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $56.50. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Kemper About Kemper (Get Free Report) Kemper Corporation (NYSE:KMPR) is a diversified insurance holding company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Formed through the rebranding of Unitrin in 2010, Kemper has established a nationwide presence by offering a broad array of property and casualty insurance products. The company distributes its products through independent agents, brokers and direct-to-consumer channels, serving both individual policyholders and commercial clients. The personal insurance segment provides coverage for automobiles, homeowners, renters and umbrella lines, while the commercial business focuses on liability, workers compensation and specialty property solutions tailored to small and mid-sized enterprises. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Kemper Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kemper and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Just for late night & early morning readers . . . We're inspired by the angels to take one more peek at pop culture, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Celebrate Local End Game Hero The Heart of Kansas City: 'Cemetary Man' restores headstones The Heart of Kansas City: 'Cemetary Man' restores headstones Inconvenient Testimony 'It's a life-sucking thing': Kansas City man speaks out on 'gas station heroin' addiction amid ban attempts A popular product on gas station and convenience store shelves could be going away this year. Despite strong pushback, 7-OH is still completely legal. Kansas City Burn Risk Fire at Waldo Heights Apartments Residents were asked to "shelter in place" during the event, as the hallways and stairwells were full of smoke. Local Wreck Report 2 juvenile passengers injured in crash; KCPD investigating possible impairment of driver The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is investigating the possible impairment of a driver after they crashed early Sunday, injuring two juveniles. Only Local Winner Tonight Kansas City shelter dog competes at Puppy Bowl on Sunday A Kansas City shelter dog competed at the 22nd annual Puppy Bowl on Sunday. Meet New Angel Boss Meet the CEO taking Victoria's Secret from 'woke-washing' to owning sexy again | Fortune Hillary Super is the first woman to run Victoria's Secret & Co.: "It's hard to have an intuition about a category that you cannot put on your body. MAGA Rebukes Athlete President Trump rips Olympian Hess for comments on U.S. U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday said that it is hard to cheer for American Olympians who are speaking out against administration policies. Critics Against White House Insider Stephen Miller: The aide driving Donald Trump's most controversial policies The high-velocity start to 2026 by the Trump administration has cemented Stephen Miller's position as one of its most powerful figures. Progressive Promise Democrats will stop Trump from trying to nationalize midterms, Jeffries says Top House Democrat says president's suggestion for Republicans to 'take over' elections really means 'steal it' Legal Argument Down Under Christchurch terrorist in fiery exchanges in NZ Court of Appeal The convicted Christchurch terrorist and murderer is giving testimony in the New Zealand Court of Appeal as he seeks to vacate his guilty pleas over his 2019 attack on two mosques. World Remains At War It feels like humanity has died in Sudan Millions of people have fled slaughter and rape. In camps dominated by women and girls in Chad, their nightmare continues El Papa Won't Be Coming Home Pope Leo says he has no plans to visit U.S. this year Some observers speculated the pontiff might travel to the United Nations general assembly since he's been so outspoken about several world conflicts. Cowtown History Remembered "Church Hill," one of Kansas City's first Black communities 19th century neighborhood was home to school and churches catering to African Americans Grigs Warns Of Winter Heat Wave Kansas City weather: Near-record warmth possible Monday, rain chances late week Kansas City is in for a springlike stretch to start the week, with sunshine and well-above-average temperatures before a cooler, more unsettled pattern returns later in the week. And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. Thank you for signing up! Youll soon be getting your Toronto scoop in your inbox. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page. Morocco Family Vacation Recognized as the Best Family-Friendly Tour Company in Morocco (TRAVPR.COM) MOROCCO - February 6th, 2026 - Morocco Family Vacation offers slow-paced, private family tours with licensed guides, professional drivers, and kid-friendly accommodations. We design slow-paced, family-friendly journeys so parents and children can enjoy Morocco comfortably, safely, and without stress. Morocco Family Vacation RABAT, RABAT, MOROCCO, Morocco Family Vacation Recognized as the Best Family-Friendly Tour Company in Morocco for Families Traveling with Kids, Teens, and Toddlers Rabat, Morocco Morocco Family Vacation, a leading Morocco-based travel company specializing exclusively in family travel, proudly announces its position as one of the best family-friendly tour companies in Morocco, offering carefully designed private tours for parents traveling with kids, teens, and toddlers. Based in Rabat, Morocco Family Vacation has built a strong reputation for creating meaningful, stress-free journeys that allow families to explore Morocco at a slow and comfortable pace, ensuring both children and parents never feel rushed or exhausted. This thoughtful approach has made the company a trusted choice for international families seeking authentic Moroccan experiences without compromising comfort or safety. At Morocco Family Vacation, we believe that family travel should be enjoyable for everyone, said a company representative. Thats why we prioritize a slow-paced itinerary design, giving kids time to explore, parents time to relax, and families the opportunity to truly connect with Moroccos culture. Slow-Paced, Child-Friendly Travel That Makes Every Moment Count Unlike traditional tours that try to cover too much in a short time, Morocco Family Vacation carefully plans each day to avoid long, tiring schedules. Frequent breaks, shorter driving distances when possible, and flexible daily programs ensure that kids, teens, toddlers, and parents can enjoy the journey without feeling overwhelmed. This family-first philosophy allows travelers to fully appreciate every destinationwhether wandering through historic medinas, enjoying camel rides in the Sahara Desert, or relaxing in a peaceful riadmaking the journey worth every single second. A Professional and Family-Friendly Team You Can Trust Morocco Family Vacation is known for its family-friendly team, made up of professional private drivers and fully licensed tour guides who are experienced in working with families. Drivers are carefully selected for their safe driving standards, local knowledge, and warm, patient approach with children of all ages. Licensed local guides bring Moroccan history and culture to life in an engaging, age-appropriate way, making experiences enjoyable for kids, informative for teens, and enriching for parents. Carefully Selected Family-Friendly Accommodations Every accommodation used by Morocco Family Vacation is chosen with families in mind. From spacious family rooms to child-friendly riads and comfortable hotels with pools, each stay is designed to provide rest, privacy, and convenience. These family-friendly accommodations play a key role in creating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for families with toddlers, young children, or teenagers. Tours Designed for Kids, Teens, and Toddlers Understanding that every age group has different needs, Morocco Family Vacation customizes activities to suit each family: Fun and interactive cultural experiences for kids Adventure-filled activities for teens Safe transportation, flexible schedules, and comfort-focused planning for families with toddlers Car seats, tailored meal options, and flexible daily planning are available upon request, ensuring peace of mind for parents throughout the trip. Why Families Choose Morocco Family Vacation Private, fully customized family tours Slow-paced itineraries designed to prevent fatigue Professional private drivers and licensed tour guides Family-friendly accommodations across Morocco Dedicated support from a family-focused travel team With Morocco rapidly growing as a top destination for family travel, Morocco Family Vacation continues to set the standard for family-friendly tours in Morocco, delivering unforgettable experiences that parents and children cherish for a lifetime. About Morocco Family Vacation Morocco Family Vacation is a Rabat-based travel company specializing in private, tailor-made tours for families visiting Morocco. With a strong focus on comfort, safety, and authentic cultural discovery, the company designs unforgettable journeys for parents traveling with kids, teens, and toddlers. ### Photo: Press Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, February 9. Azerbaijan and Tajikistan discussed prospects for developing cooperation, Trend reports via the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan. These issues were discussed on February 9, 2026, during a meeting between Tajikistans Deputy Foreign Minister Nigina Alizoda and the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Tajikistan, Alimirzamin Askerov. During the meeting, the sides reviewed the current state and future prospects of the full spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as the progress in implementing signed agreements and cooperation programs. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan have steadily strengthened bilateral ties in recent years, focusing on trade, investment, energy, transport, and cultural exchanges. Both countries have emphasized the importance of implementing signed agreements and joint programs to deepen economic cooperation and foster closer diplomatic relations. High-level meetings and regular consultations between foreign ministries aim to ensure coordination across multiple sectors, supporting sustainable development and regional connectivity. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Zimbabwean artists perform traditional Chinese lion dance at a carnival to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Feb. 7, 2026. Zimbabweans on Saturday were treated to Chinese cuisine and traditional performances at a carnival held in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year.(Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua) HARARE, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabweans on Saturday were treated to Chinese cuisine and traditional performances at a carnival held in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year. The carnival, organized by the China-Zimbabwe Exchange Center in partnership with the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe, featured cultural performances, including Chinese martial arts and musical performances by Zimbabwean and Chinese artists, and an exhibition showcasing a variety of Chinese cuisine and products. "As we step into the Year of the Horse, we celebrate the attributes this noble animal symbolizes in your culture, namely strength, intelligence, vitality and unwavering purpose. These are not just Chinese values, they are universal aspirations that we connect deeply with the Zimbabwean spirit," Zimbabwe's Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya said at the carnival. She said the designation of 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges underscores the fact that sustainable relations between nations are built not only through economic cooperation but also through cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Over the years, she said, cooperation between Zimbabwe and China has continued to expand beyond trade and development into the wider experience of arts, culture, tourism, education and the creative industries. Tinashe Murambwa, one of the carnival attendees, told Xinhua that he was delighted to try Chinese cuisine for the first time. "Food has the remarkable ability to bring people together and create a sense of cultural connection," he said. In his remarks at the carnival, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding said the year 2025 has been a year of remarkable achievements in China-Zimbabwe relations. "With the Year of the Horse just around the corner, I reaffirm China's commitment to advancing our all-weather partnership. I look forward to working closely with our Zimbabwean friends and the Chinese community here to further strengthen the fraternal bonds between our two great nations," he said. A Chinese dance is staged at a carnival to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Feb. 7, 2026. Zimbabweans on Saturday were treated to Chinese cuisine and traditional performances at a carnival held in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year.(Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua) People take selfies at a carnival to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Feb. 7, 2026. Zimbabweans on Saturday were treated to Chinese cuisine and traditional performances at a carnival held in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year.(Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua) BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijani and American companies have discussed opportunities for cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital technologies, Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev wrote on his X social media account, Trend reports. According to the minister, a meeting was held with a delegation led by Khush Choksi, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce. The meeting was attended by executives and representatives of leading US companies, including Apple, Mastercard, Visa, Ericsson, Motorola Solutions, Honeywell, Parallel Wireless, Meta, Resecurity, Global Data Risk, WhiteFox Defense Technologies, bp, Lummus Technology, and others. During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Organized by the Baku Music Academy named after Uzeyir Hajibeyli, with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and Gilan, the 2nd Winter Tale International Music Festival has concluded in Gabala, Trend reports Held for the second consecutive year in Gabala, the festival once again brought together art lovers as a continuation of the Gabala International Music Festival, which has been traditionally organized in the city since 2009. Launched on February 5, the festival presented a rich and diverse program at the Heydar Aliyev Congress Center in Gabala. The program included vocal and chamber instrumental evenings, solo performances, and a concert by a young pianist with autism, as well as a chamber music evening titled BakuNaples: A Musical Bridge, symbolizing the friendship between Azerbaijan and Italy. On the evening of February 8, the Heydar Aliyev Congress Center hosted the grand closing ceremony and final concert of the 2nd Winter Tale International Music Festival. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and representatives of the festivals organizing bodies, as well as renowned musicians, music enthusiasts, and guests of the city, attended the event. The closing concert featured a flamenco-jazz music night titled AzerbaijanSpain: Two Countries, One Music, during which Azerbaijani folk songs, flamenco-jazz compositions, and mugham improvisations were performed. Invited artists and dancers from Spain added special energy to the evening with their passionate performances. Prior to the concert's commencement, a concise overview was shared regarding the Spanish and Azerbaijani musicians taking part. It was noted that world-renowned flamenco pianist and composer Andres Barrios received a classical music education and has a deep understanding of jazz. His eclectic and innovative style stands out as a bold modern expression of 21st-century flamenco, skillfully blending various global music genres. The Azerbaijani musician featured in the concert, tar player Ibrahim Babayev, is known for his distinctive experimental approach, combining mugham traditions with elements of electronic and contemporary music. Pianist Nijat Aslanov, in turn, is recognized for his creative style synthesizing mugham, ethno-jazz, and modern jazz. The event featured captivating performances by Andres Barrios, who improvised pieces such as Ecdysis, Meraki, Noche Andaluza, Seville, and La Colombiana, as well as traditional Spanish folk songs. Flamenco dance compositions presented by Spanish dancers Cristina Cazorla and Javier Moreno, along with mugham and flamenco improvisations performed by Ibrahim Babayev together with Andres Barrios, and the Azerbaijani folk song Yaylyg, received a warm response from the audience. The final concert also included a solo performance and flamenco improvisations by renowned Azerbaijani pianist and jazz composer Nijat Aslanov, accompanied by his jazz trioFuad Jafar (bass guitar) and Hasan Bilalov (percussion). Thus, the 2nd Winter Tale International Music Festival in Gabala concluded on a joyful note, leaving behind lasting and unforgettable musical impressions. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaija BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Senior leadership of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense participated in the World Defense Show 2026 global defense industry exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry. At the exhibition involving advanced companies, products of Azersilah Defence Industry Holding CJSC under the Ministry of Defence Industry and other private companies in Azerbaijan were showcased at the company booth. The Ministry leadership reviewed modern weapon systems, military equipment, aviation, and aerial assets presented at the booths, along with the latest developments in AI and cybersecurity. During the visit, Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, met with his colleague from Saudi Arabia, Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, and several company executives. The meetings focused on exchanging views on issues of common interest in military-technical cooperation. Meanwhile, it is worth noting that the World Defense Show, a key platform for the defense industry, brings together leading companies from around the world and hosts presentations on cutting-edge technologies, strategic partnerships, and business meetings. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. On February 9, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received a delegation of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations led by its Chair Betsy Berns Korn, Trend reports. During the conversation, they fondly recalled previous meetings between President Ilham Aliyev and representatives of the Conference. Expressing gratitude to the head of state for the reception, Betsy Berns Korn expressed her pleasure at leading a large delegation to Azerbaijan to discuss opportunities for expanding cooperation, taking into account the country's strategic importance as well as its strong ties with the United States and Israel. Betsy Berns Korn conveyed her congratulations on the progress made in Washington last August regarding advancing the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. She particularly highlighted the leadership demonstrated by the President of Azerbaijan in this matter and the efforts shown by the U.S. President. The head of state thanked them for the congratulations and touched upon the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in achieving those results. Noting that the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides have already become accustomed to living in peace, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that ensuring peace and stability in the region would make a significant contribution to its development, and highlighted the importance of the TRIPP and other connectivity projects in expanding regional cooperation. Stating that Azerbaijan-U.S. relations have been successfully developing since Donald Trump's return to power, the head of state described his multiple meetings with the U.S. President over the past six months as the first in the history of bilateral relations. The meeting also noted the historically tolerant environment in Azerbaijan and the state care shown toward Jews, as well as toward representatives of other peoples. They hailed the development of Azerbaijan-U.S. relations during the conversation. They highlighted successful cooperation between the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and Azerbaijan, stressing its role in expanding bilateral Azerbaijan-U.S. and Azerbaijan-Israel relations. Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has dismissed the head of the Nakhchivan City Executive Authority of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Trend reports. President Ilham Aliyev signed a relevant decree in this regard. Under the decree, Jabbar Musayev has been relieved of his duties as head of the Nakhchivan City Executive Authority of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Jabbar Musayev has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, following the regions Supreme Assembly decision,Trend reports. The decision follows a decree signed by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. Jabbar Musayev previously served as head of the Nakhchivan City Executive Authority. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. "Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, I sincerely congratulate you on being awarded the prestigious Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. This recognition is yet another testament to your consistent efforts and firm determination to achieve lasting peace and stability through the promotion of constructive policies and tolerance. We consider the signing of a peace agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia as a significant milestone in strengthening friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two states, as well as in consolidating peace and security in the Caucasus region and beyond. As a peace-loving country, Tajikistan once again welcomes this constructive, positive, and historic achievement and reaffirms its commitment to resolving conflicts exclusively through political and diplomatic means. Taking this opportunity, I wish you, dear Ilham Heydar oglu, good health and success, and the people of friendly Azerbaijan new achievements, peace, and continued prosperity," the letter reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Representatives of Azerbaijans civil society have addressed an open letter to Vice President of the United States of America JD Vance. Trend presents the full text of the letter: Dear Mr. Vice President, We write to you as representatives of a nation that has, for centuries, served as a bridge between civilizations. This is a land where the call to prayer and the ringing of church bells harmonize in a spirit of true coexistence. Azerbaijan remains steadfast in its commitment to the spiritual and traditional values that form the bedrock of any stable society: the sanctity of the family, the preservation of heritage, and the protection of religious freedom. In light of the current U.S. Administrations firm commitment to religious freedom and interfaith dialogue, we are proud to highlight Azerbaijans enduring legacy as a model of interfaith harmony and tolerance. Our nations relationship with the Christian world is not merely diplomatic, but deeply cultural. Azerbaijan has historically invested in the protection of diverse religious heritage, including the extensive renovation of Christian churches and sacred sites in Vatican. We take immense pride in our blossoming ties with the Holy See and the growing presence of diverse Christian denominations within our borders. From the flourishing activities of the Catholic community to the recent establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Baku, Azerbaijan continues to expand the space for faith to thrive. Our commitment is further evidenced by the ongoing construction of a second Catholic church in our capital which is a testament to our belief that a society is strengthened by its religious diversity. However, the path to our current peace has been marked by profound loss. We must remember the historical injustice faced by Western Azerbaijanis who, since 1987, were forcibly uprooted from their ancestral lands in Armenia. Hundreds of villages were emptied, homes looted, and sacred sites, including the historic Blue Mosque in Yerevan, were desecrated or had their identities erased. Despite decades of integration within Azerbaijan, the longing to visit ancestral graves and restore ruined homes remains a peaceful, humanitarian heartbeat within our people. Western Azerbaijanis harbor no territorial ambitions. Their goal is not to challenge sovereignty of Armenia, but to exercise the fundamental human right to return to one's roots in peace and dignity. We stand at a historic crossroads. The Joint Declaration signed on August 8, 2025, in Washington, serves as a beacon of hope. We fully endorse the vision shared by President Ilham Aliyev and US President Donald Trump to replace decades of discord with a future defined by trade, security, and mutual respect. Mr. Vice President, We ask for your support in advocating for the right of return and preservation of the cultural heritage of Azerbaijanis expelled from the Republic of Armenia in early 90s. Your support for the peaceful return of Western Azerbaijanis to their historical homelands and restoration of destroyed religious and cultural heritage sites of Azerbaijani people in Armenia can be a significant step forward in the right direction. Furthermore, we believe a truly comprehensive peace must address the right of return for Azerbaijanis forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands in Armenia. While the Western Azerbaijan Community seeks a constructive dialogue regarding a peaceful return, these efforts have yet to be reciprocated. Ultimately, a just and lasting peace must include the reconciliation and safe return of these individuals to their original homes. Your leadership and moral clarity can ensure that the "Peace of 2025" becomes a permanent reality for every family in the Caucasus. With Respect and Sincerity, The Representatives of Azerbaijani Civil Society 1. Ramil Iskandarli Chairman of the Board of the Azerbaijan National NGO Forum 2. Oghuz Mammadov - Chairman of "Zangi - Study of Historical Heritage" Public Union 3. Fuad Mammadov - Chairman of the "Simurg" Azerbaijan Cultural Association 4. Khatira Valiyeva Member of the Board of the Azerbaijan National NGO Forum 5. Rizvan Nabiyev - Member of the Board of the Legal Analysis and Research Public Union 6. Tanzila Rustamkhanli - Chairperson of the Azeri-Turk Womens Union 7. Novella Jafarova - Chairwoman of the Dilara Aliyeva Azerbaijan Women's Rights Society 8. Saadat Bananyarli - Chairwoman of the "Azerbaijan National Unit of the International Human Rights Society" Public Union 9. Saltanat Gojamanli - Chairwoman of the "Protection of Human Rights and Legality" Public Union 10. Sevinc Alizade Chairwoman of the Victory Support to Families of Martyrs Public Union 11. Amir Aliyev Chairman of the Center for the Promotion of Human Rights Public Union 12. Alimammad Nuriyev Head of the Constitution Research Fund 13. Zaur Mammadov - Chairman of the Baku Club of Political Scientists 14. Rey Gasimov - Chairman of the Association of Landmine Victims in Azerbaijan Public Union 15. Hafiz Safikhanov - Chairman of the Azerbaijan Campaign Against Landmines Public Union 16. Zaur Ibrahimli - Chairman of the "Priority" Social Economic Research Center Public Union 17. Khatai Alasgarov - "Dada Alasgar Home" Public Union 18. Konul Behbudova Chairwoman of the Karabakh Missing Families Public Union 19. Ayaz Mirzayev Chairman of the Azerbaijani Journalists Network Public Union 20. Dilgam Ahmad Chairman of the Chapar Center for the Study of National Heritage Public Union 21. Haji Abdulla Chairman of the Zangezur Societies Public Union 22. Fariz Khalilli Chairman of the "Miras" Public Association for the Promotion of Cultural Heritage 23. Umud Rahimoghlu - Chairman of the International Eurasia Press Fund 24. Mubariz Asgarov - Chairman of the "Objective" Public Union for the Promotion of National Values 25. Shahla Naghiyeva - Chairwoman of the Sonmez Mashal Cultural Relations Public Union 26. Tunzala Abdullalimova Chairwoman of the For the Motherland - Support to Families of Martyrs Public Union 27. Jeyran Hasanova Chairwoman of the Support to Mothers of Martyrs Public Union 28. Aqil Jamal Chairman of the Common Values Public Union 29. Vugar Gadirov - Chairman of the Youth Organization for Return and Revival Public Union 30. Khalid Kazimov - Chairman of the Regional Human Rights and Media Center Public Union 31. Ahmad Abbasbayli - Chairman of the Center for Development of Society Public Union 32. Irada Rzazada - Chairperson of the Public Union For Social Well-being of Citizens 33. Keramet Ismaylov Chairman of the Public Union for Economic and Social Development 34. Fikret Yusifov President of the "Economics" International Economic Research Public Union 35. Shalala Hasanova - Chairwoman of the Support to the Development of Public Relations Public Union 36. Zarifa Guliyeva Chairwoman of the Modern Development and Family Public Union 37. Mahluga Rahimova Chairwoman of "Disabled Women's Society" Public Union 38. Vusala Huseynova Chairwoman of the Reformist Women and Innovations Public Union 39. Ilgar Huseynli Chairman of the Social Strategic Studies and Analytical Research Public Union 40. Varis Yolchiyev - Director of the Azerbaijan Literary Fund 41. Samad Vakilov - Chairman of the "Muvakkil Law Center" Public Union 42. Jasarat Huseynzade - Chairman of the Public Union to Support Information and Social Initiatives 43. Elshad Eyvazov - Chairman of the Independent Journalists Public Union 44. Farida Mirishova- Chairwoman of the "Iz" Culture Development and Support Public Union 45. Lala Sardarli - "Support to the Protection and Promotion of Applied Art" Public Union. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Labor pensions in Azerbaijan will be indexed, following a decree signed by President Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. Under the decree, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan is instructed to index the following amounts by January 1, 2026: - The insurance portion of labor pensions assigned up to January 1, 2026, adjusted in line with the annual growth rate of the average monthly nominal wage for 2025, as determined by the State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This applies to pensioners receiving service-based supplements, with the total amount including these supplements and any material benefits incorporated into pensions since January 1, 2023. - Pension capital amounts recorded in the insurance portion of individual personal accounts of the insured, adjusted according to the annual consumer price index. The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan is tasked with addressing any issues arising from the implementation of this decree, which takes effect on January 1, 2026. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Health Care and Medical Science between the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia has been approved, Trend reports. President Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree in this regard. According to the decree, the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Health Care and Medical Science between the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia, signed in Riga on December 4, 2025, has been approved. Once the Agreement enters into force, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan should ensure its implementation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan must notify the Government of the Republic of Latvia of the completion of the internal procedures necessary for the Agreement to enter into force. HARARE, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- As the Chinese New Year approaches, the economic partnership between China and Zimbabwe is expected to gain fresh momentum as bilateral cooperation continues to expand, a Zimbabwean minister has said. In an interview with Xinhua on Saturday during a carnival celebrating the upcoming Chinese New Year in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Development Monica Mutsvangwa said "What the Year of the Horse signifies is more vigor, perseverance and that unwavering support. We will always say to China, we are friends indeed and friends always." According to the minister, Zimbabwe's SMEs stand to significantly enhance their competitiveness through increased market access, technology transfer and investment in the new year. "As you are aware, the SMEs in this country are the pulse of the economy. They are producing more than 60 percent of the GDP. These SMEs, we obviously want them to have digital skills," she said. Describing China's development as a source of inspiration for Zimbabwean SMEs aspiring to become large international corporations, Mutsvangwa said "We have seen ourselves learning more from the Chinese companies. I have had an opportunity to take 53 SMEs to China so that they can also understand and learn from those companies that started as SMEs and are big corporate companies today." She said the relationship between Zimbabwe and China, rooted in China's historical support for Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, is now evolving into a modern partnership aimed at mutual prosperity. "So we continue to learn, and we continue to share experiences. There is a lot that China needs from us, and there is a lot that we need from them. So that is a good win-win partnership," she said. Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy, hinges on the growth of SMEs, and Chinese investment can unlock growth in local industries, Mutsvangwa added. "There has been a lot of Chinese investment going on in our country, and that has created employment, and this is what we want. We want our youth to be employed," she stressed. The minister also applauded Chinese private capital for enhancing Zimbabwe's industrial capacity, particularly in steel manufacturing, cement production and mining. "China has always been there for Zimbabwe, before and after independence. We have seen more Chinese capital coming into the country," she said, noting that Chinese investment has been pivotal in financing Zimbabwe's critical infrastructure. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. This week, Vice President JD Vance will visit Azerbaijan, marking the highest-level visit to Azerbaijan in many years, the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan said in a post on its official social media page, Trend reports. "The Vice Presidents visit reflects the strength of the U.S.-Azerbaijan relationship and our shared commitment to expanding cooperation and advancing peace and stability in the South Caucasus," the embassy said. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. On February 9, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, received a delegation of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations headed by Conference Chair, Betsy Berns Korn during their visit to the country, Trend reports via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the meeting, the current state and prospects of Azerbaijan-U.S. and Azerbaijan-Israel relations were discussed, along with cooperation with Jewish organizations operating in the US and the regional situation. The meeting also provided detailed information on recent regional developments following the August 8 Washington Summit, the Azerbaijan-Armenia normalization process, regional connectivity issues, efforts toward the implementation of the TRIPP route, and measures being carried out in the post-conflict period. The traditions of interfaith harmony, tolerance, and multiculturalism in Azerbaijan were highlighted with satisfaction, noting that in a predominantly Muslim country, people of Christian, Jewish, and other faiths live in an atmosphere of mutual understanding, good neighborliness, and peace. It was emphasized that the long-standing presence of the Jewish community in Azerbaijan has contributed additional strength to the development of strong partnership relations between Azerbaijan and Israel. The meeting also included an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) will open entirely new opportunities for trade, transit, and energy flows in the region, US Vice President JD Vance said during a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Armenia, Trend reports. It's going to open up a whole new world of trade, transit, and energy flows in this region of the world, and it will create unprecedented connections between Armenia and its neighbors. Now, that is great for the prosperity of the people of Armenia, but it is also great for the enduring project of peace, because when you create these interconnected economies, energy sectors, and so forth, it means that this region can have an enduring peace. We don't just want to make peace with the Prime Minister and the President's leadership. We also want to make sure that that peace endures, and that is something that we are accomplishing here today, he said. To recall, on August 8, 2025, following the results of a trilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint declaration on ensuring peace between Baku and Yerevan and establishing transport links between the main part of Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. This project was named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity. During the meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan initialed the draft "Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia" and signed a joint appeal by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia to the OSCE Chairman-in-Office (on the closure of the OSCE Minsk Process). Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Washington in January 2026, where they presented a framework program for the execution of the TRIPP project. In their joint statement, Mirzoyan and Rubio emphasized Armenias intention to approve and support the creation of the TRIPP Development Company, which will be tasked with overseeing the development of the TRIPP project. The company will be granted the right to implement the project for an initial term of 49 years. Under the terms, Yerevan plans to offer Washington a 74% stake in the TRIPP Development Company, while retaining 26%. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijan plays an important role in the energy security of many countries. Ten of them are members of the European Union, and 11, at the same time, are members of NATO. For these countries, Azerbaijan is now becoming a much more important partner than ever before, said President Ilham Aliyev during a meeting with a delegation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Trend reports. The head of state added, We observe and respect all our commitments and never mix political agendas with business, which has also been a good opportunity for us to broaden our international presence in the global energy market. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Azerbaijani cybersecurity model has attracted the attention of foreign countries, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency Shahin Aliyev said at the 6th Graduation Day event of the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Center today, Trend reports. According to him, during the operation of the Cybersecurity Academy at the Cybersecurity Center, more than 380 highly qualified cybersecurity specialists have been trained, and in total, more than 10,000 people have been involved in various training programs. He said that 86% of Cybersecurity Academy graduates are currently employed, which is considered an indicator of the center's real contribution to the labor market. "The center closely cooperates with both the state and private sectors, along with local higher education institutions. At the same time, important steps have been taken to develop local products in the field of cybersecurity, and five local products have been introduced to the market to date," Aliyev explained. The official noted that educational and practical activities on cybersecurity are planned to be held in all educational institutions of the country in the near future. "In addition, the model of the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Center is already attracting the attention of foreign countries. Negotiations are underway with Kazakhstan and other countries to export this model," he mentioned. Aliyev emphasized that, according to the report of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Azerbaijan has advanced 40 places in the rating in the field of cybersecurity in recent years, taking a position above the world average and leaving behind a number of leading countries. "The adoption of a national strategy, strengthening human resources, and structural reforms in state institutions are indicated as the main factors ensuring this rapid development. International interest in local cybersecurity products has increased," he said. The official pointed out serious interest in the 'SAYFEL' product, especially from Turkiye, and a number of European countries, as well as the ongoing negotiations in this direction. "Moreover, Central Asian and African countries also show interest in the center's operating model," he added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The court hearing in the criminal case against Ruben Vardanyan, a citizen of Armenia accused under articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan related to crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious crimes, will continue on February 10, the Baku Military Court told Trend. The court hearing in Ruben Vardanyans case, scheduled for December 30, 2025, was postponed for an indefinite period due to the court panel chaired by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samadova) entering deliberations in another criminal case involving 15 citizens of Armenia. Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1 and 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation or forcible displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, and 116.0.18 (violations of norms of international humanitarian law during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, and 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, and 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, and 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1 and 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and explosive devices), 270-1.2 and 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, or forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, and 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border). Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Tahir Budagov has been dismissed from the post of Chairman of the State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijani authorities have extended the detention of Ali Karimli, Chairman of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), Trend reports. Karimli, who has been held by the State Security Service (DTX), appeared before the Sabail District Court, which approved prolonging his preventive detention for an additional period of four months. He faces charges under Article 278.1 of the Criminal Code, which concerns actions aimed at forcibly seizing power or attempting to alter the constitutional order. According to the report, the search and interrogation of the homes of Ali Karimli and Mamed Ibrahim are related to the criminal case against Ramiz Mehdiyev, which is being investigated by the State Security Service. The court granted the petition regarding Mehdiyev, who was brought to criminal responsibility for particularly serious crimes, and chose a preventive measure in the form of house arrest for a period of four months. He is accused under Articles 278.1 (actions aimed at seizing state power), 274 (treason) and 193-1.3.2 (legalization of property obtained by criminal means) of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 9. Turkmenistan and the European Union have discussed current priorities and prospects for cooperation in the energy sector, with a focus on strengthening institutional interaction and practical engagement, Trend reports via the Turkmen embassy in Belgium. The discussion took place during a meeting between Ambassador of Turkmenistan SaparPalvanov and Head of Energy Platform Task Force in DG ENER, European Commission, Cristina Lobillo Borrero. The sides exchanged views on key issues of the energy and climate agenda. The importance of existing dialogue mechanisms was underscored, alongside mutual readiness to enhance and intensify these formats in the energy sphere. The parties also confirmed their interest in maintaining regular contacts, including at a high level, and continuing a constructive, forward-looking dialogue in line with their respective priorities. Meanwhile, in 2026, the relations between Turkmenistan and the European Union are focused on enhancing economic cooperation, advancing energy collaboration, and promoting sustainable development, in alignment with the EU's Strategy for Central Asia and the Interim Trade Agreement. Key areas of engagement include facilitating Turkmenistan's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), supporting the transition to green energy, expanding trade relations, and conducting annual dialogues on human rights. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Dynamic economic development, an open foreign policy, and reforms make Azerbaijan a promising partner for Indonesia in the fields of economy, energy, tourism, digitalization, and education, Berlian Helmy, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Indonesia to Azerbaijan, said in an exclusive interview with Trend. Before arriving in Baku, I studied Azerbaijan from various sources, and I can say that it is a very dynamic and energetic country. Azerbaijan has strategic significance and can become an important strategic partner for Indonesia, noted the Indonesian Ambassador. According to him, the positive assessment of the country is based on several reasons: First, Azerbaijan is a rapidly emerging progressive economy in the region. Many achievements are evident, and macroeconomic indicators demonstrate steady growth. Secondly, the domestic policy of the government is oriented towards cooperation with other countries. This is an open country, ready to engage with states and regions worldwide. The Ambassador added that Azerbaijan has carried out significant reforms and transformations in state policy, which have already yielded tangible results, particularly in the economy, and this creates prospects for the countrys future. Thanks to its openness to cooperation, Indonesia can become a strategic partner of Azerbaijan in developing mutually beneficial projects, such as in business, investment, trade, tourism, and other sectors. The countrys geographic location at the junction of Asia and Europe makes it a promising hub for Indonesia to enter European markets. And finally, Azerbaijan demonstrates dynamic development in social and cultural spheres. This is especially noticeable among the younger generation thinking, communication, and lifestyle are becoming more modern, which creates favorable conditions for cooperation, said B. Helmy. Priorities of Bilateral Cooperation The Indonesian Ambassador noted that his first priority is to form the institutional and political infrastructure of bilateral cooperation: It should include the creation of a comprehensive strategic basis for interaction between Indonesia and Azerbaijan, which will serve as a foundation for current and future cooperation. The first task is to encourage the governments of both countries to sit at the negotiating table and officially formalize a strategic partnership. Next, I plan to focus on the development of economic and social sectors. Secondly, the priority is to increase trade volumes and expand the range of goods and services. He emphasized the importance of opening broader access for Indonesian goods to the domestic market of Azerbaijan and simplifying communication, contacts, and negotiations between businessmen of both countries. An important aspect is the exchange of knowledge. Business communities must better understand each others potential and opportunities to effectively develop trade and investment, he said. Energy: Traditional and New Sources In the energy sector, we will focus on stable supplies of energy resources from Azerbaijan to Indonesia, as well as cooperation in green energy and diversification of energy sources. An important direction is food security. We rely on Azerbaijan as a reliable supplier of fertilizers, which are extremely important for Indonesias agriculture, stated the Ambassador. He also emphasized the importance of water resilience and water security. Azerbaijan has extensive experience in providing clean drinking water, including Caspian Sea desalination technologies, and it is important for us to develop cooperation in this area, he noted. Regarding education, he stated: In the context of Industry 4.0, we are interested in technological and scientific cooperation, especially in STEM fields science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Digitalization as a Tool for Transformation In the broadest sense, digitalization is a concept of transformation. If considered in the economic and social context, it is precisely in these directions that we need to develop cooperation with Azerbaijan. The main task is to accelerate transformations through digital technologies and achieve an economic effect. It is important for us to promote Indonesian products in the Azerbaijani market through modern digital platforms and tools. Therefore, one of my tasks is to develop cooperation in the field of digitalization to support trade and business between our countries, noted the Ambassador. In the social sphere, he emphasized the importance of digital literacy: It helps societies better understand each others culture and characteristics. Indonesians should know Azerbaijan better, and Azerbaijani youth should know Indonesia. For this, it is necessary to develop educational cooperation and exchange programs, as well as to exchange data and information about our countries. The materials should be open and accessible in digital format, he said. Mutual Support on the International Stage We see enormous potential in strengthening the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Azerbaijan. My task is to ensure that all areas of cooperation from politics and economy to education, energy, tourism, and digitalization develop harmoniously, creating mutually beneficial opportunities for both countries, concluded the Ambassador. ABUJA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least 30 people were killed after an overloaded truck carrying passengers and goods crashed in Nigeria's northwestern state of Kano, local authorities said Sunday. Many others were injured after the driver lost control of the vehicle while traveling on a highway. The truck veered off the road and crashed at Kwanar Barde, a village in the Gezawa local government area, on Sunday morning, Bature Dawakin-Tofa, a spokesman for the governor of Kano State, told Xinhua over the telephone, attributing the incident to "reckless driving." Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf described the incident as "unfortunate," and directed local health authorities to provide free and timely medical services to survivors. Deadly road accidents occur frequently in Nigeria, often caused by overloading, bad road conditions and reckless driving. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Patryk Loszewski, Executive Director of the electoral group, visited Azerbaijan's Aghdam, Khankendi, and Shusha cities to explore the restoration activities, Trend reports via the Ministry of Finance. During the visit, the executive director was provided with detailed information on the large-scale restoration and reconstruction work carried out in Aghdam, which was destroyed during the occupation, the implementation of the city's master plan, the formation of modern infrastructure, as well as the measures taken to gradually resettle the population within the framework of the Great Return Program. Loszewski also got acquainted with the activities of the central part of Khankendi and the main infrastructure facilities, the restoration and reconstruction work carried out there, the organization of social infrastructure, and measures taken to ensure the living conditions of residents. During the visit to Shusha, the guest was provided with extensive information on the city's rich historical and cultural heritage, the restoration of cultural monuments, as well as the implemented infrastructure and tourism projects. The information noted that Shusha, as the cultural capital of Azerbaijan, plays an important role in the social, cultural, and economic life of the region. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Economic Zones Development Agency under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Patryk Loszewski, Executive Director of the electoral group that includes Azerbaijan, visited the Aghdam Industrial Park, managed by the Agency for the Development of Economic Zones, Trend reports via the agency. The delegation was informed that so far, 32 business entities have been granted residency status in the park, and five entrepreneurs have been given non-resident status. Entrepreneurs have invested 145.8 million manat ($85.7 million) in the park, creating nearly 1,000 permanent jobs, with preference given to residents from Aghdam and surrounding districts. Currently, 13 enterprises are operating in the park. Entrepreneurs in the park have sold products worth 1.4 billion manat ($820 million), of which 62.3 million manat ($36.6 million) accounted for export. IMF representatives visited the tobacco products production facility of Tabaterra LLC, a resident of the Aghdam Industrial Park, to learn more about its operations. On July 18, 2025, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the inauguration of a tobacco products manufacturing facility owned by Tabaterra LLC at the Aghdam Industrial Park. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) has discussed cooperation opportunities with the Luxembourg Financial Technology Transfer Agency, Trend reports via the CBA. According to the information, a delegation of the agency visited the bank. The CBA Executive Director Shahin Mahmudzade met with the delegation. Within the framework of the visit, the delegation also participated in meetings with representatives of the Azerbaijan Banking Association, the Azerbaijan Insurers Association, the Azerbaijan Microfinance Association, and the Azerbaijan Fintech Association, as well as with representatives of the structural units of banks for training and development. During the meetings, feedback was received on the training organized for Azerbaijan with the support of the agency, information was collected on current training needs, and a broad exchange of views was held on future cooperation opportunities. The Luxembourg Financial Technology Transfer Agency (ATTF), established in 1999 and now part of the House of Training, focuses on transferring financial expertise to emerging nations to strengthen their financial systems. Its mission is to promote economic development and alleviate poverty through training and consultancy. The ATTF has trained over 30,000 professionals from more than 40 countries, conducting seminars and workshops both locally and abroad. Key areas of focus include risk management, private banking, and financial sector security. Acting as a bridge between Luxembourg's financial expertise and developing countries, the ATTF also supports the establishment of local training academies. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Economic Zones Development Agency under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. A total of 32 business entities have been granted resident status in the Aghdam Industrial Park, while 5 entrepreneurs hold non-resident status within the park, Trend reports, citing the Economic Zones Development Agency (EZDA) under the Ministry of Economy. The information indicates that entrepreneurs have invested 145.8 million manat ($85.7 million) in projects implemented within the industrial park, resulting in the creation of nearly 1,000 permanent jobs. It was also reported that 13 enterprises are currently operating in the Aghdam Industrial Park. In addition, entrepreneurs have carried out product sales worth 1.4 billion manat ($82 million) within the park, of which 62.3 million manat ($36.6 million) accounted for exports. The Aghdam Industrial Park, a 190-hectare state-funded industrial zone in Azerbaijan, was established in May 2021 to support the revitalization of the liberated Karabakh region. It aims to foster industrial development and attract investments by providing "plug-and-play" infrastructure for businesses in construction materials, food processing, and agriculture, along with job creation. The park offers significant incentives, including 10-year tax exemptions for property, land, and income taxes, and a 7-year exemption from VAT and customs duties on imported machinery. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 9. Uzbekistans Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov and Aleksei Erkhov, Russias Ambassador to Uzbekistan, highlighted an 11% rise in trade turnover in 2025 and outlined cooperation plans for 2026, the Uzbek foreign minister wrote on his X page, Trend reports. We discussed the outcomes of Uzbekistan-Russia ties over the last year and plans for 2026. Underscored positive dynamics in many areas, including trade turnover, which showed an 11% increase last year, Saidov stated. He added that the agenda for the coming year remains extensive, with numerous bilateral and multilateral events planned. Meanwhile, Uzbekistans trade turnover with Russia reached $12.9 billion in 2025. During the period, Uzbek exports to Russia totaled $4.3 billion, making Russia the largest destination for Uzbekistans exports. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Issues of cooperation in energy, transport, investment, trade, industry, innovation, digitalization, and other fields were discussed at a round table held as part of the business mission of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to Azerbaijan, Trend reports. According to the information, a roundtable was organized at the Ministry of Economy with a delegation led by Khush Choksy, Senior Vice President, International Member Relations & Senior Vice President, Middle East & Turkiye at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. During the roundtable, it was emphasized that, thanks to the political will of the heads of state, the relations between Azerbaijan and the United States have reached the level of strategic partnership, creating ample opportunities for the diversification of economic cooperation. It was noted that the economic environment in the country, built on the principles of macroeconomic stability and sustainable development, is highly attractive to foreign investors. Information was provided on the ongoing efforts aimed at diversifying Azerbaijan's economy and expanding the non-oil and gas sector, as well as on key strategic initiatives. The countrys favorable transport and logistics advantages were highlighted, and the potential for further collaboration through new transportation links was emphasized. The roundtable also discussed the incentives and benefits available to entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan, as well as the steps taken in digitalization, the expansion of investment flows, and the development of entrepreneurship. Representatives of U.S. companies attending the meeting conveyed their satisfaction with Azerbaijans conducive business environment and underscored their keen interest in fostering and expanding strategic partnerships. During the discussions, participants explored forthcoming steps and identified potential projects aimed at enhancing collaboration across various sectors, including energy, transportation, investment, trade, industry, innovation, and digitalization. Additionally, queries from American companies were addressed in detail. The delegation, led by Jennifer Miel, Vice President for Middle East, Central Asia, and Turkiye Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, included senior executives from prominent corporations such as Apple, Ardea Energy Technologies Inc., Ericsson AB, ExxonMobil, Herbalife, Illumina, Meta, Visa, Wabtec, Baker Hughes, BP, Boeing Global, Honeywell, J.P. Morgan, Lummus Technology, Marriott, Mastercard, Shell International, Azerbaijan Coca-Cola Bottlers LLC, and Motorola Solutions. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 9. Turkmenistan discussed key areas of cooperation with the United Nations and its specialized agencies, Trend reports via the Turkmen MFA. The issues were raised during the meeting on February 9 between Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Dmitry Shlapachenko, and ambassadors of Central Asian countries accredited in Ashgabat. Special attention was given to the preparation and upcoming organization of the second regional training in Ashgabat for young diplomats and other government officials from Central Asian countries. This follows Turkmenistans earlier announcement that it plans to propose a coordinated diplomatic approach within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member states at the UN to safeguard international law. The statement was made by Turkmenistans Ambassador to Belarus and Permanent Representative to the CIS statutory bodies, Nazarkuly Shagulyev, during a meeting of the CIS Council of Permanent Plenipotentiary Representatives in Minsk on January 29. The United Nations in Turkmenistan serves as a development partner, endorsing national priorities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (20212025/20262030). The Country Team, led by the UN Resident Coordinator, collaborates with the government on health, education, economic, and social reforms. Key focuses include people-centered governance, inclusive economic growth, and quality services. Major UN agencies involved are UNDP, WHO, UNICEF, and UNODC. Additionally, the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia addresses regional security. Key projects encompass legal aid strengthening, violence protection for women and children, trade improvement, water resource management, and pandemic preparedness, supported by significant government financial contributions. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Cooperation on boosting the efficiency of the organization of cargo shipments along the Middle Corridor has been discussed between Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Uzbekistan, the statement of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY), one of AZCON Holding companies, says, Trend reports. The discussion was held during the meeting between ADY Chairman Rovshan Rustamov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Uzbekistan Railways JSC Zufar Narzullayev, and General Director of Georgian Railways JSC Lasha Abashidze in Tashkent. The meeting also addressed topics of mutual interest, focusing on the collaboration between the three nations within the railway sector. Specifically, the discussions centered on the potential for enhancing the efficiency of cargo transportation from Central Asia to Europe via the Middle Corridor. Additionally, the importance of integrating digital solutions was underscored, with a view to further optimizing cargo transit through the corridor and attracting additional freight. The Middle Corridor is a transport and trade route running through several countries in the region, linking Asia and Europe as an alternative to the traditional Northern and Southern corridors. The route begins in China, passes through Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, crosses the Caspian Sea, and continues through Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Discussions on business cooperation were discussed between Azerbaijan and Turkiyes Eczacbas Holding, the Azerbaijani Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov wrote on his X page, Trend reports. "During the meeting with Bulent Eczacbas, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Turkiyes Eczacbas Holding , we exchanged views on advancing AzerbaijanTurkiye business cooperation, the favorable investment climate for foreign investors, and the companys potential activities in Azerbaijan across healthcare, industry, finance, information technologies, and other sectors," he pointed out. The volume of trade transactions between Azerbaijan and Turkiye amounted to $5.7 billion in 2025. This figure decreased by $409.3 million, or 6.7%, compared to 2024. Meanwhile, trade with Turkiye accounted for 11.58% of Azerbaijans total trade turnover during the reporting year, placing Turkiye second among Azerbaijans top trading partners. Exports from Azerbaijan to Turkiye totaled $3.37 billion, which is $441.6 million, or 11.6% less than in the previous year. During the period, $118 million of export to Turkiye fell on crude oil and crude oil products, derived from bitumenous minerals. The volume of the products in this value amounted to 242,600 tons. In the same period of the previous year, the export of the aforementioned products from Azerbaijan to Turkiye decreased by $114.4 million or 49.2% in value, and by 187,900 tons or 43.6% in volume. At the same time, in 2025, Azerbaijan exported non-oil products worth $597.3 million to Turkiye, which is $55 million or 10.1% more than in the previous year. Turkiye's share in Azerbaijan's non-oil exports was 16.46%. Thus, Turkiye ranked second among the top non-oil export destinations for Azerbaijan after Russia. Last year, imports from Turkiye to Azerbaijan reached $2.3 billion, up $32.3 million, or 1.4%, compared to 2024. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel SHENZHEN, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- South China's tech hub of Shenzhen, home to the leading global drone maker DJI, has to date opened a total of 310 low-altitude logistics routes, with 82 new routes added in 2025, according to the ongoing annual session of the municipal people's congress. Official data published during the meeting on Monday shows that Shenzhen has built more than 1,200 low-altitude takeoff and landing facilities as the city accelerates the development of its low-altitude economy. The city in Guangdong Province now stands as a leading manufacturing base for unmanned aerial vehicles, producing 70 percent of China's consumer drones and 50 percent of its industrial drones. The expansion of Shenzhen's low-altitude sector is fueled by the city's increasing investment in sci-tech innovation. From 2020 to 2024, Shenzhen's total R&D investment grew from 151.08 billion yuan (about 21.73 billion U.S. dollars) to 245.31 billion yuan, representing an average annual growth of 12.9 percent. China's low-altitude economy has gained substantial momentum since being recognized as a new growth driver in the 2024 government work report. The Civil Aviation Administration of China has projected that the country's low-altitude economy reached a market scale of 1.5 trillion yuan last year and will climb to 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. For Uzbekistan, the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) initiative could become a multi-level platform of opportunities, fitting organically into the countrys strategy of openness and economic modernization, Doctor of Sociology from Uzbekistan, Azamat Seitov told Trend. First of all, TRIPP opens up qualitatively new transit and logistics prospects for Uzbekistan. As a country without direct access to the worlds seas, Uzbekistan is objectively interested in diversifying its transport routes, the expert noted. He believes that creating new routes aimed at the South Caucasus and extending to Western markets will help break the mold of relying on just a few traditional paths, bolster the strength of foreign trade, and trim down logistics costs for both exporters and importers. In this sense, TRIPP complements national efforts to transform Uzbekistan into a regional transport and logistics hub, he emphasized. Seitov also drew attention to the trade and economic dimension of the initiative. Participation in the project creates conditions for a more active entry of Uzbek products into the markets of Europe and the Middle East through multimodal routes, as well as for attracting foreign partners in processing, storage, and transportation of goods, the expert said. Speaking about the upcoming visit of U.S. Vice President James David Vance to Azerbaijan, Seitov noted that the trip could become an important stage in promoting TRIPP not only for the South Caucasus, but also in a broader regional context, including Central Asia. I believe that Vances visit will contribute to the implementation of this initiative as an important part of the regions transit and infrastructure agenda. Today, the United States views this project as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the peace agenda and trade and infrastructure integration in the South Caucasus, which may have a direct impact on neighboring regions, including Central Asia, the expert added. On August 8, 2025, in Washington, with the participation of US President Donald Trump, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, and Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, a joint declaration was signed. One of the points of the document provides for the launch of the Zangezur corridor (Trump Route or TRIPP) to unblock regional communications. In addition, the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia initialed an agreement on peace and interstate relations. In January 2026, the Armenian Foreign Ministry published the agreement signed between Armenia and the U.S. on the implementation of the TRIPP project. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Washington and presented a framework program for the implementation of the TRIPP project. The published document was assessed as a new step towards fulfilling the commitments made at the White House on August 8, 2025, to support the establishment of a sustainable peace in the South Caucasus. The joint statement of Mirzoyan and Rubio said that Armenia intends to approve and support the establishment of the TRIPP Development Company, which will be responsible for the development of the TRIPP project. The company will be granted the right to implement the project for an initial period of 49 years. Yerevan plans to offer Washington 74% of the shares of TRIPP Development Company while retaining 26%. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, February 9. Tajikistan is making progress in improving collections and efficiency in the electricity sector, Trend reports citing the International Monetary Fund (IMF). According to the IMF, Barki Tojik has shown a welcome improvement in payment discipline during 2025, supported by the rollout of smart metering and initiatives to reduce electricity theft, which have produced encouraging results. The Fund noted that some large state-owned consumers still lag in payments, which affects the financial position of the sector. The IMF emphasized that further improvements in collection rates and gradual tariff adjustments toward cost recovery will help reduce quasi-fiscal losses and strengthen the sustainability of Tajikistans electricity system. Meanwhile, Tajik Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda announced at an extended government meeting that government revenues in 2025 reached 60.3 billion somoni ($6.4 billion). This is 7 billion somoni ($74.8 million) more than the planned target for the reporting period. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Feb.9. The International Monetary Fund and the Arab Monetary Fund have renewed and expanded their cooperation under an updated Memorandum of Understanding, Trend reports via the IMF. The agreement was signed by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and Arab Monetary Fund Director General Fahad M. Alturki on the sidelines of the AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies in Saudi Arabia. The updated MoU aims to deepen collaboration on macroeconomic surveillance, lending coordination, technical assistance and training, as well as data and information exchange, the institutions said. Georgieva said the agreement would strengthen efforts to promote macroeconomic and financial stability and inclusive growth in the Arab region, particularly amid heightened global economic uncertainty. Alturki said the renewed partnership would enhance the regions financial safety net and improve joint work on surveillance, programs, data and analytical research to better meet the needs of member countries. The agreement runs through 2036 and builds on recent initiatives, including the establishment of the IMFs regional office in Riyadh and the Arab Monetary Funds medium-term strategy approved in 2024. Earlier, the IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said that the organization stands ready to support the Arab regionwith integrated policy advice, financing, and capacity development. She said the Arab region has also demonstrated resilience, with growth expected to increase to 3.7 percent this year. Oil-exporting countries are benefiting from higher production, while oil importers are gaining from lower prices, strong remittances, and a rebound in tourism. Financial conditions have improved, several countries have regained market access, and some have made progress in economic diversification and infrastructure investment, including efforts to harness artificial intelligence. Economies emerging from conflict, she added, are beginning the difficult path to recovery. At the same time, Georgieva warned that daunting risks remain, citing geopolitical tensions, trade protectionism, rising debt levels, and uncertainty over AI-driven productivity gains. She also pointed to continued conflicts and significant humanitarian needs across parts of the region. Oil price volatility remains a key concern, she said, noting that prices could weaken if global demand softens amid trade tensions, while the unwinding of OPEC+ production cuts could worsen supply-demand imbalances. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Feb.9. The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has launched the IsDB Concessional Fund (ICF), a new financing initiative aimed at supporting its 27 least developed member countries, the bank said, Trend reports. The fund was unveiled at the Second AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies. It provides Shariah-compliant concessional financing and targeted grants to alleviate debt burdens and support investments in human capital, food security, essential infrastructure, and climate resilience. Allocations will be guided by a framework assessing per capita income, debt sustainability, and exposure to fragility and external shocks, prioritizing countries with the greatest development challenges. Funding will be directed toward projects aligned with national development plans. The ICF is backed by 20% of the banks annual net income and periodic replenishments from member countries, aiming to triple IsDBs concessional financing to roughly 15% of annual approvals, the bank said. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, IsDB Chairman, said the fund was designed to strengthen partnerships, mobilize co-financing, and increase the impact of every dollar invested. He acknowledged support from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait in establishing the fund. The ICF is part of the IsDB Groups Ten-Year Strategic Framework (2026-2035) and represents an effort to accelerate sustainable development and resilience in the worlds most vulnerable economies. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The EBRD will invest in renewable energy projects and promote energy-efficiency measures across various sectors, Head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Resident Office in Tajikistan, Holger Wiefel, told Trend. He asserts that this initiative will bolster Tajikistan's capacity to adapt to climate challenges. "I have already mentioned our newly approved country strategy for Tajikistan. It covers all the areas, which offer a significant growth potential. First of all, we are talking about renewable energy, resources, and energy efficiency," he said. Furthermore, Wiefel noted that the bank will also finance investments in transport infrastructure to enhance regional and domestic connectivity, supporting trade and economic integration. "It will also promote digital infrastructure development to modernize the economy and improve service delivery. Our plan is to work with municipalities across Tajikistan to improve the delivery and sustainability of urban services, including water supply and urban transport," Wiefel delineated. He further stated that the bank will continue its fruitful cooperation with partner banks to enhance the competitiveness of local firms and expand access to financial services, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The construction sector in Kazakhstan is undergoing perhaps the most significant transformations in recent decades. One of the key initiatives in this area is the Alatau city project, which is planned to be built on the site of the former village of Zhetygen in the Ile district of the Almaty region. In 2024, the village received city status. Officials state that Alatau is set to become a new economic hub for the region, as well as an international center for Central Asia with a special economic status. The main construction of Alatau city is expected to be completed by 2030, with full project completion slated for 2050. A special economic zone covering an area of 97,900 hectares will house the city. Alatau's geographical location at the crossroads of the New Silk Road, connecting Europe and China, enhances the project's attractiveness. This is a strategically important factor: integrating the city into international logistics chains could stimulate regional economic growth and improve its position in global trade. This location also creates opportunities for attracting investments and increases the interest of foreign partners in developing the citys logistics and industrial infrastructure. To realize such an ambitious project, Kazakhstan requires significant investments. On September 26, 2025, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree granting Alatau city special status, which is intended to create favorable conditions for the protection of private investments and attract capital for long-term projects. Currently, the Kazakh Parliament is reviewing the draft of a constitutional law on the "Special Status of Alatau City," which will be an important step toward providing institutional support for the project, as recently reported by Deputy Prime Minister Qanat Bozumbaev at a meeting of the city development council. Work is already underway on launching new projects aimed at enhancing the citys attractiveness to investors. Among the priority projects are the Iconic Complex, a multifunctional complex that will serve as the architectural and business center of the city, and the KAIST Kazakhstan technological university, which will focus on training highly qualified specialists and implementing advanced technologies. The Government of Kazakhstan has reported that the citys investment portfolio includes 44 projects totaling around 1.8 trillion tenge (more than 3.6 billion US dollars) in various sectors: industry, logistics, agro-processing, and the creative industry. The implementation of these projects is expected to create more than 30,000 jobs and provide a stable economic environment for the city. Alisher Adykadyrov, the Chief Executive Officer of the Alatau city Authority, noted that key documents are currently being developed, including the conceptual and urban planning documents, as well as the citys development strategy. Alongside the implementation of the project, Kazakhstan is updating the regulatory framework of the construction industry. In 2026, the new Construction Code will come into effect, introducing mandatory oversight through a unified information system. The implementation of digital identifiers for objects and the use of BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology, which allows the creation of accurate 3D building models, will reduce the risks of unjustified cost increases and eliminate gray areas in the market. These initiatives will create favorable conditions for attracting large investors and increase trust in construction projects. Overall, Kazakhstan is demonstrating a comprehensive approach to transforming the construction sector and urban infrastructure. However, the success of the Alatau city project largely depends on the quality of institutional support, the volume of investments, and adherence to construction deadlines. Realizing such a large-scale project will require careful planning, adequate financial investment, and strict control over project timelines. For successful implementation of such initiatives, legal transparency and the confidence of foreign partners in the safety of investments are critically important. If these conditions are satisfied, Alatau city could emerge as a model of distinctive urban development in Central Asia. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 9. FlyArystan, a Kazakh low-cost airline, is launching direct flights between Astana and Batumi as part of its summer 2026 schedule, Trend reports via the company. The service will operate from June 2 through August 29, 2026, with bi-weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Departures from Astana are scheduled at 05:45 (GMT+5) on Tuesdays and at 06:50 on Saturdays, while return flights from Batumi will depart at 10:00 on Tuesdays and 11:00 on Saturdays. In 2026, the airline also intends to reinstate seasonal routes connecting Almaty to Samarkand and Tamchy (Issyk-Kul), Aktau to Baku, and both Almaty and Astana to Alanya (Gazipasha). FlyArystan, which commenced operations in May 2019, operates as a low-cost carrier under its parent company, Air Astana. Headquartered in Almaty, the airline operates a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. Kazakhstan presents national coal energy development plan through 2030 Photo: he Agency for Protection and Development of Competition of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kazakhstans Ministry of Energy has presented a draft National Plan for the development of coal-fired power generation through 2030, which envisages the construction and modernization of 7.6 GW of capacity. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 9. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and head of Hong Kong-based Sunwah Group Jonathan Choi held talks on future areas of cooperation, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh president. The sides concentrated on exploring opportunities for collaboration across various sectors such as finance, energy, digitalization, healthcare, agriculture, and construction. President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstans strong commitment to the development of its strategic partnership with China. He highlighted the successful implementation of the "Belt and Road Initiative" (BRI), which was first introduced in Astana in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Kazakh president noted the dynamic growth in trade and economic ties between the two countries, emphasizing that China is Kazakhstans largest trading partner, with bilateral trade consistently reaching new records. A particular focus of the meeting was on investment cooperation. President Tokayev underlined Kazakhstans ongoing efforts to create favorable conditions for foreign investment and provide comprehensive support for joint strategic projects. He also pointed out that the world is entering an era of rapid development of artificial intelligence, where China is a global leader. In this regard, he expressed Kazakhstan's interest in enhancing practical cooperation with China in this field. For his part, Jonathan Choi praised Kazakhstans status as an attractive and reliable investment jurisdiction, particularly in the financial sector. Sunwah Group is a Hong Kong-based conglomerate with businesses in eight principal areas, including seafood, real estate, financial services, technology, infrastructure, education, media, and green technology, with operations in mainland China, Macau, Japan, ASEAN countries, North America, Europe, and Australia. Investment cooperation between China and Kazakhstan encompasses over $27 billion in Chinese investments since 2005, with bilateral trade projected to reach approximately $44 billion in 2023-24. Key sectors include energy, infrastructure, industrial ventures, and technology, with major projects driven by the Belt and Road Initiative. Highlights consist of significant investments in renewable energy, infrastructure upgrades for logistics, and collaborations in finance and education. This partnership is propelled by geographic proximity, strategic alignment towards regional stability and connectivity, and a shift towards diversified economic engagements beyond oil, with a goal to substantially increase trade by 2030. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ISTANBUL, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye detained 63 suspects in nationwide operations targeting the Gulen movement over the past two weeks, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said Monday on social media. According to Yerlikaya, the operations were carried out in 29 provinces under the coordination of the chief public prosecutors' offices and the counterterrorism force. The suspects were accused of operating within the movement, maintaining contact with its senior members, providing financial support to organizations allegedly linked to the group, spreading propaganda on social media, and attempting to flee abroad. Among the detained suspects, 41 were formally arrested, while four others were placed under judicial control. Legal procedures for the remaining suspects are ongoing, he said. The Turkish government blames Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish cleric who lived in self-exile in the United States, for orchestrating a failed coup attempt in July 2016, which left 249 people dead and around 2,200 others injured. Turkiye has listed the cleric's network as a terrorist organization. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Iran is taking the recently launched indirect talks with the United States on its nuclear program fully seriously, said the Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Trend reports. In his address at a National Day event in Tehran, attended by foreign diplomats, Araghchi underscored that Tehran is fully committed to achieving concrete outcomes in its negotiations with the United States, contingent upon the U.S. demonstrating the same degree of seriousness in the discussions. The Iranian Foreign Minister acknowledged the lingering mistrust towards the U.S., referencing the military airstrikes on Iran that occurred during the prior years negotiations. "We remain hopeful that these talks will foster the necessary trust between Iran and the United States, allowing for tangible and meaningful results," he stated. On February 6, talks between Iran and the U.S. on the nuclear program began in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The sides agreed to continue the negotiations. Furthermore, Eslami explained that this matter is intrinsically linked to the lifting of sanctions. Eslami further clarified that, with regard to the removal of enriched uranium from Iran, this topic has not been raised in the current negotiations between Iran and the U.S. While some countries may have proposed it as a means to facilitate the discussions, it has not been officially addressed in the ongoing talks. The vice president also emphasized that while there is an established relationship between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the IAEA has not yet made any determination concerning the possibility of a military strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. He reiterated that, in accordance with IAEA regulations, Iran's rights must be upheld, and the agency is obligated to support Iran, as well as all other nations, in utilizing nuclear technology exclusively for peaceful purposes. On February 6, talks between Iran and the U.S. on the nuclear program began in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The sides agreed to continue the negotiations. According to the IAEA report published in May 2025, Iran's enriched uranium stockpile amounted to 9,247 kilograms, of which 408 kilograms have an enrichment level above 60%. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel HONG KONG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Monday morning sentenced Jimmy Lai, an instigator of anti-China riots in Hong Kong, to 20 years in prison. Lai was found guilty in December by the High Court of the HKSAR on two charges of conspiring to collude with external forces and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. Mitigation hearing for Lai's case began on Jan. 12 and concluded on Jan. 13. The defendants in the national security case include Lai, Apple Daily Limited, Apple Daily Printing Limited, and Apple Daily Internet Limited, all facing charges of conspiracy to publish seditious materials and conspiracy to collude with external forces. Lai was also facing a separate charge of conspiring to collude with external forces. The trial officially commenced on Dec. 18, 2023, and has been presided over by three judges appointed under the national security law in Hong Kong. Robots in horse costumes were showcased on the streets of Shanghai to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Year of the Horse, which begins on Feb. 17. #YearOfTheHorse #Shanghai #Robots Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. ST. PETERSBURG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Russian police, with support from the National Guard, raided an illegal drug production site in the Leningrad Oblast and detained two local residents suspected of manufacturing synthetic methadone, local authorities said on Monday. According to the regional department of the Russian Interior Ministry, officers seized about 25 kg of packaged powdered substances, nearly six kg of chemical precursors, dozens of containers filled with liquids, and a large amount of specialized laboratory equipment during the operation. Investigators said the 42-year-old primary suspect, acting as the chief chemist, and his 48-year-old accomplice had set up the illegal laboratory last November inside an unfinished building in the Anninskoye urban settlement of the Lomonosovsky district. The facility was reportedly used to produce methadone for subsequent distribution. During the raid, police seized three containers holding over 5.7 kg of precursors, a 50-liter barrel, a chemical reactor of similar capacity, and numerous canisters and bottles containing chemical substances. They also confiscated laboratory glassware, a vacuum pump, a magnetic stirrer, electronic scales, and personal protective equipment. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday ruled out Tehran ever giving up uranium enrichment in its negotiations with Washington, insisting it will not be intimidated by the threat of war with the United States. Washington first threatened to intervene over Tehran's deadly crackdown on anti-government protesters, with authorities on Sunday arresting three prominent reformists accused of anti-government rhetoric. They also imposed another hefty prison sentence on Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi, who was arrested before the protests, on charges of harming national security. Araghchi told a forum in Tehran attended by AFP that Iran had little trust in Washington and doubted that the US side was taking renewed negotiations seriously. He later said Iran was consulting with its "strategic partners" China and Russia about the talks. "Why do we insist so much on enrichment and refuse to give it up, even if a war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to dictate our behaviour," Araghchi said at the forum. "Their military deployment in the region does not scare us," he added, referring to the arrival of an aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, in the Arabian Sea. The United States and Iran reopened negotiations on Friday in Oman for the first time since Israel's 12-day war with the Islamic republic in June of last year, which the US briefly joined. Iran is seeking to have US economic sanctions on the country lifted, in exchange for what Araghchi said at the forum could be "a series of confidence-building measures concerning the nuclear programme". Western countries and Israel, thought to be the Middle East's only country with nuclear weapons, say Iran is seeking to acquire an atomic bomb, which the Islamic republic denies. "They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not looking for one. Our atomic bomb is the power to say 'no' to the great powers," Araghchi said. The US and Israel want the negotiations to go beyond the nuclear question and include Iran's ballistic missiles and support for armed groups in the region, issues Iran refuses to include in the talks. - 'Peace through strength' - Washington's lead negotiators, envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner, visited the nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln on Saturday, the US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said. The ship was dispatched to the Middle East several weeks ago as part of military build up in the region, following US President Donald Trump's threats against Iran. In a social media post, Witkoff said the carrier and its strike group were "keeping us safe and upholding President Trump's message of peace through strength". The threat of war continues to hover over the negotiations, even as Trump called the talks "very good" and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said they "constitute a step forward". Following Friday's first round in Oman, Trump signed an executive order calling for fresh tariffs on countries still doing business with Iran. The United States also announced new sanctions against numerous shipping entities and vessels, aimed at curbing Iran's oil exports. At the Tehran forum on Sunday, Araghchi said ongoing "sanctions and military actions raise doubts about the seriousness and readiness of the other side to conduct genuine negotiations". - Arrests, sentencing - The talks between the two foes and the US military buildup in the region follow Iran's crackdown on anti-government protests that began in late December, sparked by economic grievances. Iranian authorities on Sunday arrested three reformist figures including the head of Iran's Reform Front coalition, Azar Mansouri, the Fars news agency reported, listing charges that included "targeting national unity" and "coordination with enemy propaganda", among others. After the demonstrations began, Mansouri posted on Instagram that "when all avenues to be heard are closed, protest takes to the streets", later calling the death toll a "great disaster". Meanwhile, jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi was sentenced on Saturday to six years in prison on charges of harming national security and one-and-a-half years for "propaganda" against Iran's Islamic system, her foundation said in a statement. She was arrested after speaking out against the government at a funeral ceremony in December. The authorities in Iran have acknowledged that 3,117 people were killed in the protests, publishing on Sunday a list of 2,986 names, most of whom they say were members of the security forces and innocent bystanders. International organisations have put the toll far higher. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says it has verified 6,961 deaths, mostly protesters, and has another 11,630 cases under investigation. It has also counted more than 51,000 arrests. bur/smw/dcp ULAN BATOR, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The total number of measles cases in Mongolia has increased to 14,123, the country's National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) said Monday. The majority of new measles infections were among school-age children who had had only one shot of the measles vaccine, the NCCD said in a statement. In view of this, the NCCD advised parents to protect their children from a potentially severe disease by getting them two doses of the measles vaccine. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted by respiratory droplets and direct contact. Common complications include fever, dry cough, runny nose, sore throat and inflamed eyes. The disease can be prevented by immunization. The US said a Marine could not adopt an Afghan girl. Records show officials helped him get her Thousands of pages of once-secret court documents show how federal officials and a Virginia court helped an American Marine adopt an Afghan war orphan, in defiance of the U.S. governments official policy to unite the child with her family Viral video footage showed an assault that looked like it was straight out of an action movie. Armed robbers targeted a cash-in-transit van in a dramatic heist that took place along the main highway connecting Brindisi and Lecce in southern Italy on Monday. The assault, which occurred in the early morning hours near the town of Tuturano, targeting an armoured vehicle transporting a significant amount of cash. The criminal group, composed of around 10 individuals wearing black and white jumpsuits and masks, executed a meticulously planned operation that brought traffic to a standstill. To isolate the target, the gang used multiple stolen vehicles to block both directions of the highway. They set these cars on fire, creating a "wall of flames" that prevented both civilian traffic and police patrols from approaching the scene. The robbers deployed military-grade explosives to blow open the rear doors and bypass the vehicles reinforced safe in a massive explosion. Witnesses reported a large cloud of black smoke from the back of the van, and video footage of the incident was shared widely on social media. During the heist, the assailants - armed with Kalashnikov rifles and shotguns - fired multiple rounds, both to intimidate the guards and to keep onlookers at a distance. Momenti di paura questa mattina sulla superstrada 613 Brindisi-Lecce, all'altezza dello svincolo di Tuturano, dove un commando armato ha assaltato un furgone portavalori https://t.co/0hxZik8Vp0 pic.twitter.com/2aVV9GBTHK Sky tg24 (@SkyTG24) February 9, 2026 Despite the heavy gunfire and the force of the explosion, no fatalities were reported among the security personnel or bystanders. After seizing the cash (initial estimates suggest a significant haul, though the exact figure is still being verified by the security company), the gang fled in high-powered cars toward the territory of Squinzano in the province of Lecce. To secure their escape, they scattered metal spikes across the asphalt to shred the tyres of any pursuing vehicles. Police immediately launched a major manhunt, including helicopter surveillance, but the group appears to have vanished into the rural backroads of the Salento area. The attack follows a string of similar high-profile robberies on Italian highways in recent months, including a 2 million heist in Calabria inside a tunnel on 1 December and a 400,000 robbery on the A14 in Abruzzo near Ortona on 5 January. Investigators believe these crimes are the work of specialised paramilitary-style gangs, likely originating from the Foggia or Puglia regions, which have a long history of "assalto al portavalori" (armoured car assaults). The SS613 remained closed for several hours on Monday to allow forensic teams to gather evidence and for firefighters to clear the charred remains of the blockade vehicles. Travellers in the Puglia region are advised to expect heightened police presence and potential checkpoints in the coming days. Trumps Press Secretary Spent a Semester at an American University in Rome. Before becoming the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history, Karoline Leavitt spent time far from Washington, studying in Rome as part of a semester-abroad programme at John Cabot University. The detail, recently highlighted by Italian media, adds an unexpected Roman chapter to the biography of one of the most visible figures in Donald Trumps second administration. Long before daily press briefings and political clashes with the U.S. media, Leavitt experienced student life in the Italian capital, attending courses at the American liberal arts university located in Trastevere. John Cabot University is known for attracting U.S. students seeking an international academic experience while remaining within an American educational framework. For Leavitt, who later built her career in conservative politics and communications, the semester in Rome offered exposure to a very different political, cultural and social environment from the one she would later navigate in Washington. Details about the period remain limited, but her time at JCU places her among the many American students who have passed through Rome before entering careers in politics, diplomacy, journalism and international affairs. The experience is often described by alumni as formative, not only academically but personally, offering a first encounter with Europes institutions, history and political complexity. The revelation has sparked curiosity in Italy, where interest in U.S. politics remains high and American universities in Rome play a quiet but influential role in shaping future decision-makers. While Leavitt is now known for her combative style at the White House podium, her Roman semester serves as a reminder that global careers are often built through unexpected detours. For Romes international academic community, it is also a small but telling confirmation of the citys role as a crossroads, even for figures who will later find themselves at the very centre of global power. After Just Two Years, the Iconic British Toy Brand Shuts Its Italian Outlet Amid Retail Struggles One of the worlds most iconic toy shops, Hamleys, has announced the closure of its Italian store, bringing an end to the British retail brands brief presence in Rome after just two years. The announcement marks a rare retreat by the historic company, best known for its royal association and flagship store on Regent Street in London, leaving Italian toy lovers and families disappointed. The Rome store, opened in 2024 as part of a broader plan to expand Hamleys global footprint, was located in Galleria Alberto Sordi in the historic centre, drawing both local families and tourists. Its closure, disclosed in recent Italian press reports, underscores the mounting challenges facing brick-and-mortar retailers in a shifting retail landscape dominated by e-commerce and changing consumer habits. A Royal Toy Store in the Heart of Rome Hamleys, founded in 1760, boasts more than two and a half centuries of history and a reputation for theatrical retail experiences, with costumed staff, games demonstrations and famously vast toy selections spread across multiple floors. Its brand had promised a new kind of family destination for Rome, a city already rich with boutiques and specialty stores but relatively lacking in attractions focused on childrens retail. For many Romans and visitors alike, the shop was a novelty, a place where fantasy met shopping: from oversized teddy bears and classic board games to interactive play areas and exclusive merchandise tied to global franchises. It joined a handful of flagship international stores that have historically enlivened Romes retail scene, adding variety to the citys commercial offerings. Despite the initial enthusiasm, the venture struggled to find a sustainable foothold in the Italian capital. The costs of maintaining large retail spaces in prime city locations have soared, and the toy sector itself has faced significant headwinds, including competition from online marketplaces and discount chains that undercut prices. These broader economic pressures, combined with post-pandemic shifts in shopping behaviour, likely contributed to Hamleys decision to withdraw. What This Means for Local Retail The stores closure is a blow to Romes retail ecosystem, which has been trying to balance global brands with local businesses to appeal to both residents and the citys substantial tourist flow. Local shop owners say that experiences such as Hamleys offered a destination point that helped draw families into shopping districts rather than relegating purchases to online carts. For parents and collectors in Rome, the loss is especially felt during periods like holidays and birthdays when Hamleys curated selection of toys and games had been a go-to choice. Although other toy retailers remain in the city, few carry the same breadth of inventory or the immersive shopping experience. A Town Still Rich in Shopping Tradition Romes broader retail scene remains resilient, with thriving markets, artisan workshops, and boutique stores throughout Trastevere, Monti and Centro Storico. From classic Italian brands and fashion houses to independent bookstores and design shops, the city continues to offer diverse shopping experiences that reflect local creativity and culture. Hamleys departure, however, highlights how even storied global brands face significant hurdles in adapting to local market conditions. The closure may serve as a cautionary tale for other international retailers considering ambitious expansions into Italys historic cities. What Comes Next Hamleys has not yet released a full statement detailing its plans in Italy, including whether it might explore smaller footprint stores or pop-up events in the future. For now, the Rome shops closure ends a chapter that, while brief, brought a slice of London toy lore to the banks of the Tiber. Families who cherished the stores offerings will now look to other specialty toy boutiques and online communities, while Romes retail streets remain dynamic spaces where tradition and innovation continue to intersect. Valentines Day in Rome 2026: History, Traditions and the Most Romantic Things to Do in Italy Valentines Day in Rome in 2026 falls on Saturday 14 February, making it the perfect excuse for a romantic weekend in the Italian capital. Known in Italy as, the day blends ancient history, Christian tradition and modern rituals of love. While cities across Italy celebrate, Rome offers something unique. Saint Valentine was a Roman martyr, and the Eternal City remains closely linked to his story. For couples planning a romantic getaway in Rome for Valentines Day 2026, the city offers history, atmosphere and countless memorable settings. Beyond Rome, however, several Italian destinations provide equally romantic alternatives. The Roman Origins of Valentines Day Valentines Day has deep roots in ancient Rome. Before Christianity, mid-February marked the festival of Lupercalia, held on 15 February. The celebration was associated with fertility and purification rites and possibly linked to lupus, the Latin word for wolf, recalling the she-wolf who nursed Romulus and Remus. In the late fifth century, Pope Gelasius I replaced Lupercalia with a Christian feast day on 14 February dedicated to Saint Valentine. Over time, this religious commemoration evolved into a broader celebration of romantic love. Who Was St Valentine? Several early Christian martyrs were named Valentino, including one in Rome and another identified as the Bishop of Terni in the third century. According to tradition, Bishop Valentino of Terni defied Emperor Claudius IIs ban on marriage for young soldiers and performed secret weddings. He was executed on 14 February around 270 AD and later canonised as the patron saint of lovers, young people and happy marriages. One legend recounts how he healed the blind daughter of his jailer and sent her a farewell note signed from your Valentine. Another tells how he reconciled quarrelling lovers with the gift of a rose, now a universal symbol of romance. Relics associated with the saint can still be seen in Rome, reinforcing the citys connection to the holiday. What to Do on Valentines Day in Rome 2026 With 14 February falling on a Saturday, Valentines Day in Rome is ideal for a long weekend. February is also quieter than spring, offering a more intimate experience. Sunset at the Pincio Terrace The Pincio Terrace above Piazza del Popolo offers one of the most iconic panoramic views in Rome. Watching the sun set behind the domes and rooftops is a classic Valentines Day moment. Giardino degli Aranci and the Aventine The Orange Garden on the Aventine Hill provides a peaceful setting with sweeping views across the Tiber towards St Peters Basilica. Nearby, the famous keyhole of the Knights of Malta frames the Vatican dome in perfect alignment. Visit the Relic of St Valentine At the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, visitors can see the skull relic attributed to St Valentine. The church is also home to the Bocca della Verita, adding a touch of legend to the visit. Dinner in Trastevere Trasteveres narrow cobbled streets and traditional trattorias make it one of the most romantic neighbourhoods in Rome. Many restaurants offer special Valentines menus on 14 February, and booking in advance is highly recommended. Evening Walk Along the Tiber A passeggiata along the Lungotevere, with views of Castel SantAngelo illuminated at night, offers a simple but memorable way to celebrate Valentines Day in Rome. Romantic Alternatives Across Italy For those considering a Valentines weekend beyond Rome, Italy offers several iconic destinations. Verona Often described as Italys city of love, Verona is the setting of Shakespeares. Each year the city hosts the Verona in Love festival, decorating streets and squares with red hearts. Piazza dei Signori features a themed market, while concerts, special events and discounted entry to Juliets House attract couples from across Italy. Venice In 2026, Valentines Day coincides with the final days of the Venice Carnival. Visitors can attend masquerade balls, take gondola rides along the canals and experience the atmosphere of masked crowds in St Marks Square. The combination of Carnival and Valentines Day makes Venice particularly atmospheric. Amalfi Coast Usually associated with summer, the Amalfi Coast in February offers dramatic scenery without the crowds. Towns such as Positano and Ravello provide sweeping sea views and a quieter, more intimate setting. Some hotels offer Valentines wellness packages featuring heated pools and spa treatments overlooking the Mediterranean. Tuscany For couples seeking relaxation, Tuscanys countryside provides a slower pace. Natural thermal baths such as Saturnia or Bagno Vignoni allow visitors to soak in warm volcanic waters while surrounded by rolling hills and crisp winter air. Terni Believed to be the birthplace of the saint, Terni takes Valentines Day seriously. Engaged couples gather at the Basilica of San Valentino to renew their promises during the Festa della Promessa. From 12 to 15 February 2026, the city also hosts Cioccolentino, a chocolate festival featuring tastings, workshops and themed events. Visitors can pay their respects at the basilica where St Valentines relics are preserved under the sign St Valentine, patron of love. Italian Valentines Traditions Perugina Across Italy, one of the most popular gifts remains Baci chocolates by. Each chocolate contains a romantic message wrapped in silver foil, combining sweetness and sentiment. Many Italians celebrate Valentines Day with a traditional passeggiata followed by a long candlelit dinner, keeping the focus on shared time rather than elaborate gestures. Why Italy Is Perfect for Valentines Day 2026 Whether you choose Rome, Venice, Verona or the Tuscan countryside, Italy offers history, beauty and atmosphere in equal measure. With Valentines Day falling on a Saturday in 2026, couples can transform 14 February into a full romantic weekend in Italy. From panoramic terraces in Rome to Carnival masks in Venice, from Shakespearean balconies in Verona to thermal springs in Tuscany, La Festa di San Valentino remains both deeply rooted in Italian history and vibrantly alive today. Museum staff members introduce cultural knowledge to passengers aboard the train G848 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) A museum staff member displays cultural and creative products at a railway station in Qin'an County of Tianshui City, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Museum staff members pose for a photo with a girl at Lanzhou West Railway Station in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) A museum staff member talks to a passenger aboard the train G848 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) A museum staff member presents cultural and creative products to a passenger aboard the train G848 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Museum staff members welcome passengers at Lanzhou West Railway Station in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Museum staff members aboard the train G848 wave goodbye at a railway station in Tianshui City, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Museum staff members introduce cultural knowledge to passengers aboard the train G848 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Passengers take the train G848 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2026. As part of the mobile museum on the high-speed railway program, the train G848, carrying cultural relics interpreters, departed from Lanzhou West Railway Station heading to Guangzhou South Railway Station on Monday. Nine of China's national first-grade museums in Gansu, including the Dunhuang Academy and Gansu Provincial Museum, have brought the cultural heritage of Gansu onto the train, allowing passengers to touch history and get to know traditional custom during the Spring Festival travel rush. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhimin) Waterford made headlines across national news this week with the CIE Tours Awards of Excellence, a Michelin Bib Gourmand and a decision to close one of the country's most beloved restaurants. The Tannery The Tannery restaurant in Dungarvan is closing its doors next year. According to a post on social media, their last service will be January 1, 2027. "If someone had told us in 1997 that our little restaurant in Dungarvan would still be going strong 30 years later, we would have signed up on the spot. Weve had the run of our lives." However, according to chef and restaurateur Paul Flynn, this is not the end of the Tannery's story. He and his wife, Maire - a front of house extraordinaire - will be maintaining the cookery school and also the restaurant will continue to serve guests of the Tannery Townhouse. The couple and co-owners paid tribute to their staff, their daughters and the Dungarvan community. "There wont be one farewell party. Instead, the next 11 months will be one long celebration." They are inviting regulars, old friends and first-time visitors to be part of their final service season. Farmgate Lismore Farmgate in Lismore was one of five Irish restaurants awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand ahead of the Michelin Guide ceremony in Dublin this week. Farmgate Lismore gained a Bib in recognition of the fuss-free, produce-led cooking it offers. Farmgate Lismore is a converted former pub where the warm, friendly team and comforting dishes will make you wish you lived up the road. The lambs liver and bacon perfectly encapsulates the kitchens talent for showing off quality produce, they said. Unlike Michelin stars, which focus on fine dining, the Bib Gourmand was introduced in 1997 to showcase "restaurants that serve high-quality food at great value". Jack and Carmel Burtchaell State transport company CIE honoured local Waterford walking tour guide Jack Burtchaell and his wife Carmel with a celebratory dinner following Mr Burtchaells completion of 10,000 walking tours. Mr Burtchaell was hired by CIE in 1990. Waterford was the first location to roll out the scheme. CIE estimates that Mr Burtchaell has toured with over 300,000 American guests over the past 35 years. While Mr Burtchaell did the touring, Mrs Burtchaell oversaw administration and bookings. Ive worn out a lot of shoe leather over the years, but it gives me great satisfaction to share the story of Waterford with people from all around the world," said Mr Burtchaell. "We have a great history and a great story to tell." Read More Jack and Carmel Burtchaell celebrated after 10,000 milestone Dooleys Hotel Dooley's Hotel has been named the Best Three-Star Hotel in Ireland at the 2026 CIE Tours Awards of Excellence. The awards, which are in their 34th year, celebrate excellence in tourism and are based on post-stay feedback from guests. Speaking after the team took home the gold award, Dooleys Hotels Tina Darrer explained why the award means so much. This recognition means so much to us because it comes directly from our guests. It reflects the care, consistency and pride our entire team brings to their work every day. To be recognised by CIE Tours for delivering a warm, authentic Irish welcome alongside high standards of service is incredibly rewarding, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported and stayed with us over the years, said Ms Darrer. A Waterford judge has described a psychiatric report delay as very unsatisfactory for a defendant whose family have grave concerns for his mental health. The man, who is of no fixed abode, appeared by video link before Judge Kevin Staunton at Waterford District Court charged with threats to kill or cause serious harm at Sara Technology, on Broad Street, on December 14, 2025. Bail was previously refused, and a file is to be sent to the DPP to decide how to proceed. At previous sittings, solicitor Ken Cunningham expressed the concerns of the mans family around his mental health, and Judge Kevin Staunton ordered a psychiatric report. However, at the most recent sitting, the report was not yet available, and the solicitor reiterated the familys concerns, calling them grave. Read More Man detained following axe-attacks on cars near popular beauty spot A family member was in court to advocate for the man and ask for the court to intervene further. But Judge Staunton said he had already ordered the report, and the pace was very unsatisfactory, but there is nothing the court can do. The mans family member asked that her family be granted decision-making rights for the defendant so that they could act on his behalf. She confirmed for the court that the man had already been assessed but she can not access those reports. Judge Staunton said that he would direct again that the report be available for the next court sitting later this month. Funded under the Court Reporting Scheme The Gardai in Waterford have issued a notice warning the public to be wary of online romance scams. A spokesperson said reported romance frauds have increased significantly and last year 2025, online media users in Ireland were conned out of approximately 2.8 million through online romance fraud. She said 88 men and women were targeted, however, she also said the number was likely higher as victims as sometimes reluctant to report the incidents. "Over the past 5 years over 9 million has been stolen and while affecting all, a significant number of reported victims are women," said the spokesperson. "Victims of the scam believe they have met their perfect match online, but the other person is in fact a scammer using a fake profile to build the relationship," she added "They slowly gain the victims trust with a view to eventually asking them for money." Romance fraudsters often attempt to move the relationship along at a quick pace, seek lots of personal information, and send multiple messages daily and then nothing for a period. The Garda spokesperson said such fraudsters try to get their victims to send them money using the following excuses: to cover the cost of travelling to see the victim; for emergency medical expenses for the scammer or a family member typically a child; a business opportunity which would allow them to live together comfortably. "Remember that these fraudsters are professional and they prey on your emotions and empathy, not weakness, and anyone can be a victim of this type of fraud," said the spokesperson. With regard to what people can do to protect themselves, the Gardai advise people to do the following: 1. Use trusted dating websites; 2. Do not share personal details, particularly personal or intimate photos; 3. Do not send or receive money; 4. Think twice before using your webcam; 5. Trust your instincts and have a conversation with someone that you trust in real life. The Gardai are also encouraging victims, or those who believe they are victims, of such romance scams along with those who think their identity or personal information has been compromised, to contact any Garda Station and report the crime. "Please be assured that An Garda Siochana will treat all reports in confidence," said the spokesperson. To find out more information go to www.garda.ie and Fraud Smart. Last week during a hearing of Waterford Circuit Court before Judge Eugene O'Kelly, a Waterford man pleaded guilty to a count of possessing drugs for unlawful sale or supply. Louis McCarthy, with an address at Kildwan, Bunmahon, County Waterford, pleaded guilty to possessing a quantity of cannabis for the purpose of sale or supply. Mr. McCarthy's defence counsel, Mr. Colman Cody SC, outlined during the court proceedings that the man is currently on bail and has a history of addiction. Mr. Cody asked that Judge Eugene O'Kelly direct a probation and welfare report to be prepared to assist with sentencing. Judge OKelly directed for a probation and welfare report to be prepared for the man. The man was remanded to April 15 for mention. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Advertisement Updated BusinessCompaniesBondi shooting ASIO v ABC: Broadcaster stands by Bondi investigation after spy agency rebuke Calum Jaspan and Ben Cubby Updated February 9, 2026 1:54pm ,first published 9:57am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A ASIO has issued a rare public statement declaring it holds grave concerns about the accuracy of an ABC investigation into the Bondi massacre set to air on Four Corners on Monday night and warning of further action if false claims are broadcast. The statement released on Sunday evening claims the ABC has relied in part on an unreliable and disgruntled source who had misidentified one of the alleged gunmen, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, and confused some of his actions before the attack with things done by someone else. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess last week. Alex Ellinghausen The ABC is standing by the story, which it said used extensive reporting and numerous sources to examine the Akrams actions leading up to the attack. ASIO, which has not seen the program, said its ability to respond to Four Corners questions was constrained as it did not want to risk prejudicing the royal commission into antisemitism and the ongoing criminal investigation against Akram. Advertisement Akram has been charged with murdering 15 people in the December 14 attack, in which his father and alleged co-conspirator Sajid Akram was shot dead by police. The first of two parts of Four Corners investigation was led by reporter Mark Willacy, airing last week. It provided an account of the events of the day of the attack, told by those present. The second part, led by reporter Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop, will investigate the secret lives of the terrorists, uncovering astonishing new information about the years leading up to the attack, according to the ABC. The ABC will on Monday night air the second part of a Four Corners investigation into the Bondi terror attack. Christopher Pearce ASIOs statement, made in response to unknown ABC questions and released publicly in an unusual pre-emptive move, notes that the domestic intelligence agency investigated Naveed Akram in 2019 using its most sensitive capabilities. We assessed he did not adhere to or intend to engage in violent extremism at that time. Having reviewed all available intelligence, we stand by our assessment at that point in time, the statement said. Four Corners claims contain significant errors of fact. Advertisement ASIO said if the ABC chooses to publish claims it cannot substantiate [...] we will reserve our right to take further action. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Herzog visit as it happened: Chaos in Sydneys CBD as pro-Palestine protesters clash with police; Israeli president speaks at ICC The Bondi royal commission is required to complete its first report by April. It will examine, among other things, whether Australias intelligence and law enforcement services were as effective as they could have been in stopping the attack, how they co-operated and whether they were hampered by legal rules. ASIO said an ABC source had a track record of making statements that are untrue. The agency rejected previously reported claims that Naveed Akram is a close associate of terrorists. The claims Four Corners is making were investigated at the time and found to be unsubstantiated, ASIO said. Advertisement The ABCs source mis-identified Naveed Akram. That is, the source claimed Naveed Akram said and did things that were actually said and done by an entirely different person. To be clear, Four Corners source mis-identified Naveed Akram, and therefore the associated claims are untrue. Related Article Bondi shooting A father, a son and the radical world of terror An ABC spokesperson defended the program as a comprehensive investigation examining the events leading up to the worst terrorist attack on Australian soil. Four Corners spoke to numerous people and provides a number of sources of information for a detailed picture of the Akrams actions and associations in the years leading up to the Bondi attack, the spokesperson said. Detailed questions were put to ASIO and its response is reflected in the story. The public will be able to watch the full investigation tonight. Advertisement Rubinsztein-Dunlop declined to comment. Related Article ABC More Insight than Q+A: David Speers to host ABCs new town hall show The source accused by ASIO of misidentifying Naveed Akram is thought to be a former ASIO agent who spent years undercover infiltrating an Islamic State-linked network in Sydney, and whose work contributed to arrests, convictions and disruption of terrorist planning, according to previous ABC reporting. The man is currently living in hiding overseas, away from his family, due to threats arising from his work with ASIO. He had relocated to Australia from the Middle East to help combat Islamic extremism, said The Information Rights Project, a charity that advocates for whistleblowers. Advertisement We ask people to put themselves in harms way to protect the public. But when they expose truths that are politically or institutionally inconvenient, they are isolated, punished, and abandoned, said Gabriel Shipton, the charitys founder and brother of WikiLeaks Julian Assange. In its statement, ASIO also rejected expected ABC accusations of understaffing and suggestions that redundancies at the intelligence agency in 2020 might have contributed in some way to its ability to prevent the massacre. The claim any resourcing decision increased the likelihood of the Bondi attack is false, irresponsible and demonstrates profound ignorance of ASIOs prioritisation frameworks and enduring investment in counterterrorism, ASIO said. Tragically, ASIO did not know what the perpetrators of the Bondi attack were planning or indeed that they were planning anything. ASIO said given the questions the ABC asked and that reporter Rubinsztein-Dunlop had previously broadcast false claims about ASIO and the Akrams, it held grave concerns about the accuracy of the proposed story. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter. What to stream this week (clockwise from top left): Matlock; Patriot; Bones; Take That; Under Salt Marsh; and Sheriff Country. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A Top picks this week include an exquisite crime drama set in Wales, a documentary about British boy band Take That, and re-runs of hit shows Matlock, Bones and Patriot. Under Salt Marsh (Binge) There are too many British crime dramas. I know it, you know it, and almost certainly the people who keep on commissioning them know it. But if theres an unending flow of six-part series about grim discoveries, dogged investigators and what they uncover about troubled communities, that also means the best entries cant help but stand out. Thats what Under Salt Marsh does. Set in rural north Wales and made with exquisite care, the show is exceptional. Put it alongside season one of Broadchurch. Created and lead-directed by British filmmaker Claire Oakley, Under Salt Marsh captures harsh, striking beauty: the storm-wracked ocean off the isolated town of Morfa Halen, cloud-covered valleys and the face of Kelly Reilly. The Yellowstone star plays Jackie Ellis, a school teacher whose pale skin and red hair stand out on her nocturnal travails like a beacon whether its help or a warning is unclear. When she discovers the body of a student in a ditch, her suffering is amplified. Something similar happened three years prior. Kelly Reilly in Under Salt Marsh. Editor's pick Review Come for the doggy meet-cute, stay for their owners in new ABC comedy As a mystery, the show is measured and sombre. Information about the case and those involved, including Jackie, is parcelled out carefully. You will see the reaction before discovering the cause, as is apparent when Jackie discovers that the district police have dispatched Eric Bull (Rafe Spall) as the lead detective. Their history is fractious, but their familiarity is obvious. Close proximity, whether as colleagues, friends or family, is always a double-edged sword here. Advertisement There is a great deal of threads tangled together, but the show can hold them all because it delivers a palpable sense of community, geographically and socially. I cant remember a British show that looked this evocative colours carry a deep resonance, while the landscape has a panoramic heft. The traditional folk instruments in Ben Salisbury and Suvi-Eeva Aikas score bestow a suitable menace to a locale where outsiders are treated with suspicion and the town elder, Soloman Bevan (Jonathan Pryce), marshals the residents. Related Article Review The boys are (still) not all right in Adolescence writers fresh take on a dark classic Even as theyre torn apart by the childs death, Morfa Halen is preparing for a destructive storm crossing the Atlantic. The towns hope, despite expert advice, is that an under-construction seawall will protect them. Its a telling reflection of the barriers individual characters put up, whether to hide from the truth or intimacy. Reilly and Spall give lived-in performances that are opposed but complementary: Jackie is an exposed nerve, Eric tamped down. Getting the answers they need might destroy them. Those are gripping dramatic stakes. Take That (from left): Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, Mark Owen, Robbie Williams and Jason Orange. Take That (Netflix) Director David Soutar deserves genuine credit. In this era of sanitised music documentaries, hes given the authorised tale of Take That, Britains defining boy and then man band, a narrative energy, discreet commentary and an aesthetic that captures the contradictions of pop music: the ephemeral and the ecstatic, the silly and the sublime. This three-part series which is essentially rise, fall and redemption understands the groups long journey. Advertisement Soutar uses reams of era-specific archival footage and voiceover interviews solely from the members and their manager who assembled them, Nigel Martin-Smith. The interviews from current members Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald are new, while the departed Robbie Williams and Jason Orange are vintage. You get camaraderie, ego crises and the enduring ambitions of songwriter Barlow, whose youthful reminiscences are summed up when he says: I always dreamt of a copyright. Part of the documentarys appeal is that it captures a long-gone age in popular music, one less studied for the stars and swathed in celebrity mechanisms; Donald was working as a vehicle painter when he went to the first audition in 1990. Alongside early photo shoots that capture the bands audience pivot from gay clubs to teen girls, their fascination with the singles chart and making it to Top of the Pops speaks to their origins as lads from Britains north-west. Kathy Bates in Matlock. Matlock (Stan*) With Paramount+ taking a mid-season break on the current second season, Stan has picked up the rights to the first season of what is one of the best recent reboots. Anchored by an authoritative Kathy Bates performance, this legal drama works on two levels its a weekly procedural, as Bates Madeline Matlock returns to the law as a retirement-age junior associate at a prestigious New York firm, shadowed by an overall arc following Matlocks efforts to discover historic malpractice by her new friends and colleagues. The storytelling economy of each episode is quite impressive. Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz in Bones. Advertisement Bones (Netflix) Netflix has enjoyed serious viewing success by licensing The Rookie, the American network procedural starring Nathan Fillion as the LAPDs first 40-something uniformed academy graduate. Looking to duplicate that binge-friendly formula, theyve now acquired all 12 seasons of this drama following the weekly cases of forensic anthropologist Temperance Bones Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and FBI agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz). The show debuted in 2005, so its more of a time capsule than The Rookie, but if the underlying romantic friction between the lead characters appeals, there are 246 episodes available. Morena Baccarin in Sheriff Country. Sheriff Country (Paramount+) Actress Morena Baccarin has long been a positive for any project shes a part of, whether its the early seasons of Homeland or the Deadpool movies. Its good to see Baccarin get top billing on her own show, a spin-off of the action-drama Fire Country where she plays a sheriff in northern California, but I wish it pushed a little harder at the conventions dictating the storylines and performances. Baccarins Mickey Fox has to solve the usual rural scrapes, some involving her shady ex-husband, but the show desperately lacks a sense of place. Michael Dorman in Patriot. Patriot (Amazon Prime Video) Advertisement KAMPALA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least six people were killed and several others sustained serious injuries in a head-on collision in Uganda's central district of Kassanda late on Sunday. Lameck Kigozi, police spokesperson for Wamala region, told Xinhua on Monday that the accident involved a passenger bus and a commuter passenger taxi at Kyakatebe, along the Mityana-Mubende-Kabarole Highway, at around 6:00 p.m. local time (1500 GMT). The bus, belonging to Link Bus Services, was traveling from the capital city Kampala to the western district of Kabarole, while the taxi was heading in the opposite direction. "The driver of the taxi, on reaching Kyakatebe, attempted to overtake an unknown vehicle, not knowing that there was an oncoming bus from the opposite direction. The taxi and bus had a head-on collision," Kigozi said. "The accident was very disastrous for the passengers of the taxi. Six of them died on the spot. Many got injured," he added. The injured were rushed to Mityana General Hospital for treatment. The police spokesperson attributed the cause of the road accident to reckless driving. Advertisement LifestyleLife & relationshipsWellbeing Whats in a name? Turns out, quite a lot Shona Hendley February 9, 2026 3:09pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Chiquita Searle loves her name. I like having something about me that is memorable and unusual, especially in a world that really does advocate sameness, she says. Searle, a Melbourne woman, has always embraced her name for its singularity, explaining that it shaped her in various ways. From a very young age, I became comfortable being different because Ive never met another Chiquita, which I think helped build a thick skin, she says. Not fitting in has created resilience within me that has served me well in both life and business. Advertisement Studies have shown a persons name can shape who they are and what they do. Getty Images The idea that your name can influence your life has been extensively explored in popular culture. George Orwell [originally Eric Blair] wrote in his letters, People always grow up like their names. It took me 30 years to work off the effects of being called Eric. If I wanted a girl to grow up beautiful, Id call her Elizabeth. More recently, author Florence Knapp looked at the various ways your name can shape the course of your life in her 2025 bestselling novel, The Names. The subject has also been the focus of numerous academic and scientific studies worldwide, examining how a persons name influences whom they are likely to date, the likelihood of committing a crime, job pathways, and career success. Advertisement It starts in childhood While much of the research has focused on adults, as in Searles case, the impact a name has on shaping your life starts at an early age, says psychologist Dr Bailey Bosch. Related Article Opinion Wellbeing Silicon Valley made us fear friction. But what if it is the secret to a better life? Lauren Ironmonger Lifestyle writer Children love hearing how and why their name was chosen, and this information starts to influence their self-concept and their sense of belonging or connection to a wider family system, especially when names have deep traditions in their family history, she explains. Whether in the school playground or the office, names also play a role in forming a first impression of someone. Advertisement They give us information in the absence of other information they provide us with an initial starting point to begin our evaluation of others, Bosch says. That can lead us to believe we know how someone might behave before they even say a word to us. Kate Burridge, professor of linguistics at Monash University, says that some studies have shown that we associate names with certain personalities. Certain names might make us recall the personality of individuals who have that name, she says. The name then somehow seems to fit that personality Marys are quiet, Davids are strong, Kylies are sexy, and so on. When we encounter that name in a stranger, it generates a certain expectancy. The expectations can, of course, be positive, negative, accurate or completely wrong-headed, she says. Advertisement Brisbane man Sandy Lokas says assumptions about his first name have misrepresented him in many ways. Related Article Ageing Are you ageing well? Try these 4 simple tests to find out In a lot of Western countries, the name Sandy tends to bring to mind a very specific image: a lovely blonde from Grease with a sweet voice not a six-foot Asian man, he says. Lokas says it was particularly difficult when he was a child. Honestly, I cant say I liked my name because it came with a lot of assumptions. Ive lost count of how many times people assumed I was a girl, only to sound disappointed when they heard my voice or met me in person, he says. Advertisement Growing up, I got teased at school, too. Kids can be brutal, and a feminine-sounding name gave them easy material. Despite the Western association with femininity, Lokas parents named him after a man. My [mums manager] was an American expat in Indonesia: Sandy Smith. She really admired him. So, she named me Sandy, hoping Id follow a similarly successful path, he says. Our names at work Lokas mother was right to think names can be powerful when it comes to influencing our careers. Advertisement Pivotal to the evaluations we make of people, Ricardo Twumasi of Kings College London believes names are remarkably efficient carriers of demographic information. [They enable] perceivers to make rapid, often unconscious inferences about ethnicity, gender, approximate age, socioeconomic background, and sometimes religious affiliation, he explains. A lecturer in organisational psychiatry and psychology, Twumasi says these inferences can subsequently influence job prospects. In professional contexts where conformity signals reliability, highly distinctive names may inadvertently mark their bearers as unconventional in ways that disadvantage them during evaluations, he explains. Racial inferences drawn from names can also affect outcomes, with one study from the early 2000s showing that, in the United States, candidates with white-sounding names were favoured over those with black-sounding names, even when they had the same qualifications, Twumasi explains. Advertisement Even the alphabetical ordering of surnames can affect outcomes. Related Article Got a Minute? Ive been boxed in at work since becoming a father. What do I do? The evidence on alphabetical ordering of surnames, showing that individuals with names earlier in the alphabet receive more favourable treatment in academic and professional contexts, suggests that even seemingly trivial sources of distinctiveness can accumulate into meaningful disparities over time, Twumasi says. For Lokas, his relationship with his name has changed over the years into something positive. These days, Ive embraced it and I actually love it, he says. Advertisement Its always an easy starting point for a laugh, a quick joke, and a bit of friendly banter. Over time, Ive managed to turn what used to feel like a disadvantage into a conversation starter something warm, memorable, and surprisingly useful. Instead of my name working against me, Ive learnt to make it work for me. Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday. Advertisement WorldAsiaWorld elections Opinion Japans election result is a geopolitical earthquake and a very big deal for Australia Peter Hartcher Political and international editor February 10, 2026 2:00am February 10, 2026 2:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A A geopolitical earthquake has struck the north-west Pacific. Its name is Takaichi. Japans first female prime minister has just triumphed in a general election in which she won more seats than any prime minister since World War II, either in proportional terms or absolute numbers. Sanae Takaichi has won a so-called super-majority of Japans lower house, or two-thirds majority, which gives her power to overrule the upper, to make law with a free hand, to launch the process towards a rewriting of Japans pacifist Constitution if she so chooses. And she did it almost single-handedly. Illustration by Dionne Gain Its a stunning result, remarks Yoichi Kato, a scholar with Waseda Universitys Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies and formerly a political correspondent for Japans nationwide newspaper, the Asahi Shimbun. This enormous victory is a reflection of her personal popularity, not necessarily support for the Liberal Democratic Party. The centre-right LDP has ruled Japan for almost the entire postwar era, but its parliamentary numbers have been in continuous decline for the past dozen years. We stand at a crossroads that will profoundly transform our nation, Takaichi said on Saturday, on the eve of polling day. Advertisement Since Japans bubble economy burst in 1989, its been largely overlooked as a force. It suffered long economic stagnation and political drift. But Japan is a nation capable of rapid transformation. Through an exertion of political will, the Meiji Restoration of 1868 transformed a poor, feudal, agrarian country into a wealthy, modern, industrialised power in just one generation. Its military defeated China and then Russia in short order in the early 1900s. Takaichi doesnt think Japan is a middle power, she thinks its a great power, says Mike Green of the US Studies Centre at Sydney University, a long-time Japan expert who has known Takaichi since the 1980s. US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo. AP Its the worlds fourth-biggest economy, with deep pools of capital and technological expertise. Japans defence spending is in the top five in the world and will probably surpass Britains to become No.1 among US allies, says Green. Takaichi promises a revival of a strong economy and a powerful military. At the level of retail politics, she promises a two-year suspension of the 8 per cent consumption tax on food and offers more help for women, carers and families. Advertisement Japan desperately hopes for change and voted accordingly. Even if the people arent sure of exactly what changes theyll be getting: Japanese people feel a sense of deep frustration as they face stagnation in every field, says Kato. Prices, including rice, are going up, while their wages are not. The economy is slow, society is ageing, population is shrinking; we are not looking at a very bright future. Takaichi has given Japan a sense of hope, even if its not well founded. People are not really interested in finding the specifics of any policy area. They just wanted somebody who can give them a reason to be hopeful. A celebrity cult surrounds her sanakatsu or sana-mania, playing on her given name, Sanae. So her black leather bag and pink pen, for example, have become hot items to own for young women. Its shallow and emotional and lacks a reasoning foundation, but her followers dont care, explains Kato. How much of her support is bound up in her achievement of smashing through Japans notoriously sexist traditions to become the first female prime minister? She wasnt elected leader of the LDP and therefore prime minister because shes a woman, points out Kato. She just played the intra-party power game better than her rivals. The novelty of a female PM did promote the impression of breakthrough change, but the hope factor and her strength and outspoken personality were the dominant appeal. Advertisement Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea last October. AP I dont think she won because shes a woman, says Mike Green. The fact that she won as a woman shows how much Japan has changed. Shes shown the Japanese people that she will fight for them. The scuba-diving enthusiast, former heavy metal drummer and car fanatic presents as a hard-driving personality who works non-stop. She has named Britains Margaret Thatcher as her inspiration, inviting the nickname of Japans Iron Lady. Takaichis image of strength was reinforced inadvertently by China. She won, in part, because China tried to destroy her, observes Green. When she told the parliament in November that any Chinese attack on Taiwan could pose an existential crisis for Japan and so trigger Japans legal right to take military action in collective self-defence, crisis ensued. It was the first such clear declaration on Taiwan by a Japanese prime minister. Beijing excoriated her and imposed punitive trade sanctions on Japan. She stood her ground; her approval rating, already high, rose higher. She plans to confront Xi Jinping, not kowtow to him. Her tough attitude and direct speech have proved to be a popular break from the typical Japanese leaders wobbliness and waffling. Advertisement Mike Green says that her entrenchment in power is a very, very big deal for Australia. Albanese said he agreed with [Canadian Prime Minister] Mark Carneys speech. That wont be Takaichis tone. Carney talks about decoupling and hedging against the US; Takaichi talks about making Japan indispensable to the US. Donald Trump, whos repeatedly praised her strength and grace, congratulated her on her win. She replied by writing: The potential of our Alliance is LIMITLESS. Green predicts that shell be encouraging Australia to push Trump to get his act together on trade policy, economic security and engagement with South-East Asia. Takaichi will intensify the US relationship because Japan has no alternative, says Green: In the 1980s and 90s, Japan was on the front line with China. Now that China has enlarged the threat envelope, Japan is almost inside the front lines. Advertisement She has put her people on notice that she will make hard decisions that they might not like: She said repeatedly during the campaign that, securing a public mandate through election is essential to decisively pursue bold policies and reforms that could polarise national opinion, without fear of criticism, relates Kato. She can now claim carte blanche. People will find out eventually what theyve entrusted her with. It could amount to an historical achievement. It could also be devastating. An earthquake of historic proportions will rearrange a country. Devastation is always a risk. Peter Hartcher is international editor. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter. Advertisement WorldEuropeUK politics Ministers back Starmer after rebels call for leader to quit over Mandelson David Crowe February 10, 2026 1:52am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is fighting a Labour rebellion over his leadership after the head of the partys Scottish wing called on him to stand down, sharply escalating the pressure for a new leader and ministry. Cabinet ministers rallied behind Starmer in a bid to halt the challenge before it could gain momentum, while the prime ministers closest allies insisted he had a mandate from voters and would stay in office. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under sharply escalating political pressure. Getty Images The leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, took the internal war into the public domain on Tuesday by holding a press conference to declare that he had to be honest about failure and call for Starmer to resign. The leadership manoeuvres come barely 19 months after Labour swept into power and heighten the crisis within the governing party, as Labour MPs complain in public about their poor polling and lack of direction. Advertisement Two resignations have also shaken confidence in the prime ministers office, with Starmers communications chief, Tim Allan, quitting on Tuesday, a day after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney stepped down. Sarwar, a centrist like Starmer, is lagging in the opinion polls ahead of an election for the Scottish parliament in May, and he said he spoke out to prevent the Scottish National Party defeating Labour at the polls. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar speaks to the media during a press conference in Glasgow, Scotland, where he called on Keir Starmer to resign as prime minister. AP Thats why I have to be honest about failure wherever I see it. The situation in Downing Street is not good enough. There have been too many mistakes. They promised they were going to be different, but too much has happened. Advertisement Have there been good things? Of course, there have many of them, but no one knows them, and no one can hear them because theyre being drowned out. Thats why they cannot continue. The leader of the Labour Party in Wales, Eluned Morgan, remained silent on the leadership question on Tuesday (London time). She is also contesting a parliamentary election in May and faces an uphill battle against Welsh governing party Plaid Cymru. Britains now former ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson, left, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. AP While Sarwar did not name the scandal over Jeffrey Epstein as a factor in his decision, the pressure on Starmer has intensified in part because of questions over his judgement in appointing Peter Mandelson, a close associate of the sex offender, as the UK ambassador to the US. Starmer last week apologised for that decision, five months after removing Mandelson from the post. He admitted that he knew of Mandelsons ties to Epstein but said Mandelson lied and pretended the pair were not close. Advertisement The prime ministers team at 10 Downing Street argued that he had won the general election in July 2024 and therefore held authority from the votes of the British public. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do, said a Downing Street spokesperson. Loading The UK has 21 cabinet ministers excluding Starmer, and a majority of them backed the prime minister with public endorsements while Sarwar was speaking or soon after he finished. The British public gave Keir a huge mandate only 18 months ago, said Defence Minister John Healey. Advertisement They wanted a Labour government. They want us to deliver the change we promised. They expect us to get on with the job... The PM has my fullest support in leading this government and this country. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: The PM has my full support. Lets get on with changing the country for the better. Related Article Epstein fallout Starmer should resign as well, MPs demand, as key aide quits Similar statements came from Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Justice Secretary David Lammy, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, Housing Secretary Steve Reed, Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, whose supporters have positioned him as a contender for the leadership, told a media podcast the prime minister should stay on, but his support did not appear to be emphatic. Advertisement Keir Starmer doesnt need to resign, he told the Electoral Dysfunction podcast. Streeting said the last week had not been the best for the government, but he added: Give Keir a chance. Another person often touted as a candidate to for the prime ministers job, former Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner, called publicly for an end to factional games. I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team. The Prime Minister has my full support in leading us to that end, she posted on X. The revolt ahead of the Scottish election highlights the concern about Labours slump in the polls across the UK and the rise of populist leader Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party, which would win a general election on current polling. Advertisement Even so, one of the key Scottish ministers in the national government, Douglas Alexander, who is secretary of state for Scotland, did not endorse Sarwars call. The prime minister has recognised not just that lessons have to be learnt but also that we change how we do government, he said. He is right about that and has my support. Hilary Benn, the secretary of state for Northern Ireland, urged MPs to stop the unrest. Now is the time for calm heads and seriousness of purpose, he said. That is why the prime minister has my full support. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. People view Spring Festival decorations during a 2026 Chinese Spring Festival celebration in Cairo, Egypt, on Feb. 8, 2026. Cairo's Swiss Club hosted celebrations on Sunday for the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival, welcoming the Year of the Horse with food, art and performances that drew nearly 1,000 Egyptians and more than 200 Chinese residents. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) CAIRO, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Cairo's Swiss Club hosted celebrations on Sunday for the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival, welcoming the Year of the Horse with food, art and performances that drew nearly 1,000 Egyptians and more than 200 Chinese residents. Organized by the Bayt Al-Hekma Cultural Group, the event blended Chinese and Egyptian traditions through interactive cultural stations, where visitors tried calligraphy, paper-cutting and lantern-making. Food stalls offered traditional Chinese New Year dishes. Students studying Chinese performed folk music and short theatrical pieces, adding to the festive atmosphere. Ahmed al-Saeed, chairman of Bayt Al-Hekma, said the gathering was "a living dialogue between two great civilizations," calling it a chance for Egyptians to express their appreciation for Chinese culture. Ali El-Hefny, vice chairman of the Egypt-China Friendship Association, said he was pleased to celebrate with the Chinese community in Egypt and highlighted the long-standing people-to-people ties between the two countries, dating back to the Silk Road. For some attendees, the festival offered hands-on cultural exposure. Haneen El-Sayed, a Chinese language student at October 6 University, said the event helped her better understand Chinese holiday traditions, including gift-giving, festive foods and seasonal activities. Students studying Chinese perform during a 2026 Chinese Spring Festival celebration in Cairo, Egypt, on Feb. 8, 2026. Cairo's Swiss Club hosted celebrations on Sunday for the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival, welcoming the Year of the Horse with food, art and performances that drew nearly 1,000 Egyptians and more than 200 Chinese residents. TO GO WITH "Cultural fusion marks "Year of the Horse" celebrations in Cairo" (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) People pose for photos with Spring Festival decorations during a 2026 Chinese Spring Festival celebration in Cairo, Egypt, on Feb. 8, 2026. Cairo's Swiss Club hosted celebrations on Sunday for the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival, welcoming the Year of the Horse with food, art and performances that drew nearly 1,000 Egyptians and more than 200 Chinese residents. TO GO WITH "Cultural fusion marks "Year of the Horse" celebrations in Cairo" (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) A student studying Chinese performs during a 2026 Chinese Spring Festival celebration in Cairo, Egypt, on Feb. 8, 2026. Cairo's Swiss Club hosted celebrations on Sunday for the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival, welcoming the Year of the Horse with food, art and performances that drew nearly 1,000 Egyptians and more than 200 Chinese residents. TO GO WITH "Cultural fusion marks "Year of the Horse" celebrations in Cairo" (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei gives a televised speech ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, in Tehran, Iran, on Feb. 9, 2026. In a televised speech on Monday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei urged Iranians to show unity and "disappoint the enemy" ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid rising tensions with the United States. (The Office of the Supreme Leader in Iran/Handout via Xinhua) TEHRAN, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Monday urged Iranians to show unity and "disappoint the enemy" ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid rising tensions with the United States. In a televised address, Khamenei said national power relies more on "determination and resistance" than on military hardware like missiles and aircraft. His remarks come as Iran prepares for nationwide rallies on Wednesday to mark the revolution's victory. "Until the enemy is disappointed, a nation is exposed to persecution," Khamenei said. "The enemy must be disappointed." He described the annual marches as a display of dignity that forces foreign powers to "retreat" from ambitions of interfering in Iranian affairs. The speech follows a period of heightened friction with the United States, fueled by a U.S. military buildup in the Middle East and ongoing threats against Tehran. Despite indirect nuclear negotiations between Iranian and U.S. delegations in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, significant gaps remain, leaving the prospect of a deal uncertain. Khamenei expressed hope that this year's anniversary would compel "other nations, governments, and powers to display modesty and reverence" toward the Iranian people. The 1979 Islamic Revolution was a watershed moment that transformed Iran from a pro-Western monarchy into an Islamic republic. Led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, a diverse coalition of clerics, students, and secular activists overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was supported by the United States. Iran and the United States severed diplomatic ties in 1980 after the Iranian people seized the U.S. embassy in Tehran. An Enniscrone eatery recently announced its upcoming closure. The takeaway business, Fry Days, announced their decision on social media, stating: "We would like to inform all our valued customers that we will be closing our doors on the 15th of February 2026. "We want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of our wonderful customers for your loyalty and support over the years. It has truly meant the world to us. We are also incredibly grateful to all of our staff, both past and present, who have been part of the journey and helped make everything possible. "As this chapter comes to an end, we would especially like to wish our dad all the very best in his retirement. His hard work, dedication, and passion have been at the heart of everything, and we hope he enjoys this well-deserved new adventure. "Thank you all again for the memories, the laughter, and the support. "With heartfelt thanks, The Quinns." Minister of State Alan Dillon TD has welcomed the sanctioning of a new special education classroom for Scoil Iosa, Ballyhaunis, as part of tranche 3 of the Department of Educations 2026/27 special class programme. Minister Dillon received confirmation today from the Department of Education that Scoil Iosa, Ballyhaunis, has been approved for one additional special class for the 2026/27 school year. Minister Dillon said: I am very pleased to receive confirmation from my colleague, Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton, that a new special class has now been approved for Scoil Iosa Ballyhaunis under tranche 3. This follows the significant progress already made across Mayo through earlier tranches, and it represents another important investment in our local school infrastructure. This new classroom will further strengthen our capacity to support children with additional needs in Ballyhaunis and the surrounding area. With this latest approval, a total of 13 new special classes have now been sanctioned for Mayo schools for September 2026. Nationally, 263 new special classes have been sanctioned for the 2026/27 school year, with further approvals expected as engagement continues between the NCSE and school patron bodies. BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Jimmy Lai case is purely an internal affair of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday, urging relevant countries to refrain from making irresponsible remarks. China urges relevant countries to respect China's sovereignty and Hong Kong's legal system, refrain from making irresponsible remarks on the trial of cases, and avoid intervening in Hong Kong's judiciary or interfering in China's internal affairs in any form, Lin said. The High Court of the HKSAR on Monday morning sentenced Jimmy Lai, an instigator of anti-China riots in Hong Kong, to 20 years in prison. BEIRUT, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from the collapse of a residential building in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli has risen to 14, the Lebanese authorities said Monday. Civil Defense Director General Imad Khreish said search and rescue operations finished, confirming 14 fatalities in total in the tragedy, which occurred Sunday in Tripoli's Bab el-Tebbaneh district. There were eight people rescued from under the rubble, according to the head of the public emergency medical service. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has reaffirmed that the government is to provide shelters for evacuated residents and secure funding to immediately reinforce at-risk structures. He stressed that identifying dangerous buildings and assessing risk levels remain primarily the responsibility of local authorities. Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri has called for national efforts to prioritize the reinforcement and rehabilitation of unsafe buildings in Tripoli, and speed up shelter provision and compensation for affected families. Setas in the spotlight Too many mandates pull Setas in conflicting directions, says stakeholders during a dialogue at Wits. South Africas skills system is under growing pressure to deliver the right skills for a changing economy. Research and engagement with users of the system highlights that the current system faces serious problems with some players calling for the closure of the skill levy institutions and others for a radical reform. In response, the Centre for Researching Education and Labour (REAL) hosted a dialogue with key stakeholders on 30 January 2026 to examine how skills planning and training can be better aligned with industry needs. This is part of a series of policy engagements drawing on extensive research at the REAL Centre into various aspects of South Africa's skills systems. The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, participated in the dialogue along with key stakeholders from Setas (Sector Education and Training Authorities), industry associations, employer associations, organised labour and policymakers. The Dialogues are informed extensively by numerous research initiatives undertaken by the Centre which have explored why the skills levy institutions function sub-optimally, including their institutional design, how they are managed by the state, and unrealistic expectations. This research also highlights that these challenges are not unique to South Africa: policy makers around the world are struggling to reform vocational education and skills systems, says Prof. Stephanie Allais, Research Chair of Skills Development at REAL. Diverging view from Panellists Panellists Rudi Dicks (Office of the President), Mustak Ally (Minerals Council South Africa), Ingrid Du Buisson (Institute for Customs and Freight Forwarding), Thabo Mashongoane (Mining Qualifications Authority) and Bhabhali Nhlapo (COSATU) were in agreement that the skills development system needs an overhaul, however, held different views on the way forward. Du Buisson had strong views that the Setas are far removed from business reality, leading to outdated curriculum, and students trained in inappropriate infrastructure as some of the reasons for the persistent skills gap. Du Buisson, who represents employers that manage and facilitate 95% of South Africa's international trade, indicated that their institute has resorted to developing its own training programmes to bridge the gap between the output from training institutions and the needs of industry. These are SAQA accredited and delivered by subject experts, she said. Credibility, relevance and trust Panellists acknowledged the institutional challenges that have faced SETAs over the 26 years of their operation, since taking over from the Industry Training Boards. The relationship between Setas and industry was described as fraught and non-existing in some sectors. We need to review how the system is designed to ensure stakeholder ownership, participation, and contribution. If you analyse and read all the reports, the system is supposed to be designed in such a way that employers and workers on the shop floor can come together and determine what their skills need are and they then contribute and submit that to the Seta, which is able to then aggregate into a skills plan, Oupa Bodibe, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education and Training. Cosatu representative Bhabhali Nhlapo rejected the simmering view from industry that Setas should be dissolved as they are ineffective compared to the old Industry Training Boards. I don't think that we must kill the system. We should kill the bureaucracy and return to the true purpose of how the levy-grant system, but we have made it to be a system of contracts, a bidding system, and all these things that are devoid of its intended purpose. This is a training system (Setas). Wrapping up the session, Allais highlighted the prevailing sentiment from the workshop that Setas have too many mandates which pulls them in conflicting directions. Some of the structural problems might be easier to resolve if we got this issue of the mandate more clear. Dialogue of this nature will assist in identifying practical solutions to ensure the users of the system are better served. Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal Zeblon Vilakazi underscored the role of universities in facilitating key national dialogues on complex matters. The future skills development courses of South Africa will not be shaped by politicians, it will be shaped by the relationships that we are building, by institutions that can work together, and the courage to acknowledge what is not working whilst committing collectively to build better, he said. The second dialogue on 27 February will focus on improving workplace skills planning and funding to support training, as well as how SETAs can best be structured to support skills planning and provision. Africas critical minerals are a huge economic opportunity The G20s new critical minerals framework wants to move Africa beyond raw exports so that mineral wealth creates jobs and growth on the continent. As the world shifts to clean energy, minerals such as lithium, cobalt and manganese have become as important as oil once was. Africa holds large reserves of these critical minerals. Yet they are mostly exported as raw materials, returning as expensive green technologies made in factories overseas. South Africas G20 presidency set up a new critical minerals framework that aims to help Africas mineral-rich countries benefit more from local processing and manufacturing. Geoscientists Glen Nwaila and Grant Bybee explain whats needed to extract the minerals safely and turn underground wealth into economic value in Africa. What are critical minerals and how do they fit into Africas resources landscape? Cobalt, manganese, natural graphite, copper, nickel, lithium and iron ore are all critical for building solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicle batteries, and other green energy equipment. Africa is home to large reserves of critical minerals. The continent has 55% of the worlds cobalt deposit. It houses 47.65% of all manganese globally and 21.6% of natural graphite. About 5.9% of copper, 5.6% of nickel, 1% of lithium, and 0.6% of iron ore globally are found in Africa. South Africa has between 80% and 90% of the worlds platinum group metals, and more than 70% of global chromium and manganese resources. These are essential in making components for clean energy technology and electronics. The International Energy Agency predicted in 2025 that the demand for lithium would increase fivefold between 2025 and 2040. The demand for graphite and nickel will double. Between 50% and 60% more cobalt and rare earth elements will be needed by 2040. The demand for copper will rise by 30% over the same period. What are the biggest challenges facing these precious resources? In many African economies, critical minerals are exported in raw or semi-processed form, to be used in the production of various green energy technologies. African countries then import these technologies, missing out on the jobs and industries that could be created if they manufactured green energy components themselves. Processing critical minerals and elements in Africa would create around 2.3 million jobs on the continent. It would raise continental GDP by about 12%. This would help address a chronic unemployment problem. For example, South Africa has an unemployment rate of 31.9%. For younger people aged 15 to 34, the unemployment rate is 43.7%. What solutions are being proposed? The G20s new Critical Minerals Framework spells out clear rules and standards to make sure more value is added locally (like processing minerals where they are mined instead of shipping them out raw). This is known as promoting local beneficiation at source or value addition and retention. The framework supports spreading mining, transport, processing and sales across different countries. This will reduce dependence on a single country or company. It will also support more reliable supply chains that dont get disrupted easily. The framework also proposes that critical mineral mining be done under strong and fair rules that protect people, economies and the environment in line with African countries own laws and policies. It also aims to create a clear map (or inventory) of where all the critical minerals are located across the continent, so that exploration (especially in places that are under-explored) can be done without damaging communities or the environment. It pushes for new ideas, technology, and training so people can gain the skills needed to work in green energy industries. Although its a voluntary and non-binding document, it is crucial as a guide to best practice. How is the role of geoscientists critical to this? Geoscience shapes everyday life in ways most people never see. Hydrogeologists help make sure cities, farms and mines have reliable, clean water without damaging the environment. Geophysicists are able to see underground using specialised tools to find minerals. They also decide where it is safe to build roads, tunnels and power plants, and track natural hazards like earthquakes. There are many fields within geoscience. Geometallurgists work out how to process mined rock more efficiently, using less energy and water and producing less waste. Geodata scientists turn satellite images and ground data into maps that are used to plan cities and adapt to climate change. Resource geologists estimate how much of a valuable mineral or metal can actually be mined, and at what risk. Engineering geologists help keep buildings, tunnels, dams and mine waste facilities safe. Environmental geologists monitor soil, water and air to ensure development does not harm people or the environment. Africas vast reserves of critical minerals can only create jobs, economic growth and sustainable development if countries have enough well-trained geoscientists to find, extract and process them. Their expertise is what turns underground resources into real economic opportunities. Africa continues to graduate a large number of talented geoscientists. They work in critical minerals value chains and make valuable contributions. However, more advanced skills in geodata science, geometallurgy, predictive modelling, and strong leadership is needed. Currently, significant gaps remain in Africa. To close these gaps, African governments, universities, industry partners, and international collaborators must urgently invest in targeted education and training programmes. These should focus on training in advanced geodata science, geometallurgy, predictive modelling, ore system science, and leadership development. Partnerships must be set up with private companies and students should attend international knowledge exchanges. Mining companies must be given incentives to share knowledge so that African professionals are trained to do high-value geoscience and mining work themselves. This would enable Africa to not only extract, but fully harness its subsurface mineral wealth for inclusive economic growth, job creation, and a just energy transition. Glen Nwaila, Director of the Mining Institute and the African Research Centre for Ore Systems Science; Associate Professor of Geometallurgy and Machine Learning, University of the Witwatersrand and Grant Bybee, Head of the School of Geosciences; Associate Professor, University of the Witwatersrand This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. CALS supports Marginalised and Affected Communities Summit Robert Krause and Mazi Choshane are set to represent CALS at the Summit bringing together over 300 representatives from affected communities, workers and allies The Centre for Applied Legal Studies will be attending the 3rd annual Marginalised and Affected Communities Summit this week. This years Summit brings together community representatives, workers and allies to discuss how to shape a just transition in the context of a rush for critical minerals. The Summit takes place on 10 11 February 2026 in Johannesburg. The Marginalised and Affected Communities (MAC) Summit is an annual event hosted by Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA), Women Affected by Mining United in Action (WAMUA) and its youth wing which together form the largest movement representing the interests of mining-affected communities in South Africa. The Summit brings together over 300 community representatives, workers and allies from around the country for a strategic gathering to build an organised network to challenge injustice in the mining sector. This years theme is Towards a people-led transition and focuses on strategies to ensure the transition to clean energy is a just transition. Acting head of Environmental Justice Robert Krause and attorney Mazi Choshane will be representing the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS) based at Wits University at this years MAC Summit. Robert Krause has been invited to speak on the plenary How do the Critical Minerals and Metals Strategy and MPRDA affect communities? at 11:00 on 11 February. The session is set to unpack how recent developments may impact communities and what needs to change to address injustice and promote accountability in the mining sector. We are at an important crossroads in the mining industry, says Robert Krause. The transition away from fossil fuels towards a green economy means that mining companies and governments are trying to secure critical minerals. The South African government has made a commitment to ensuring that this is a just transition and that communities are not left behind, but a large gap remains between rhetoric and reality on the ground. Law and policy reform processes underway will be a test of whether the interests of communities will be accorded real weight, agrees Mazi Choshane. Networks are key to advocating for change in a sector that has historically left communities bearing the burdens of mining without sharing in the benefits. The MAC Summit has a crucial role to play in bringing communities together and forging a community-led strategy for change. For inquiries, please contact: ISTANBUL, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police have seized 1.24 tons of narcotics and detained 144 suspected drug dealers in nationwide operations over the past 10 days, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Monday. During the raids, police also seized 1.83 million drug pills, Yerlikaya said in a statement on social platform X. The minister noted that the operations, covering 24 provinces, were coordinated by chief public prosecutors and anti-narcotics units. Turkiye has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking in recent years. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia, along with busy border crossings and customs gates, has made it a key transit route for smugglers. On February 7, a combined force of the Hennepin County Sheriffs Office and Minnesota State Patrol troopers carried out mass arrests of protesters outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building. The building serves as the nerve center for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations that have terrorized immigrants and protesters in Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota. Hennepin County sheriff's deputies attack protesters outside the Bishop Whipple Federal building on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026 in Minneapolis. [AP Photo/Ryan Murphy] The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) dispatched snowplows to block entry points to the Whipple building. Ranks of helmeted, baton-wielding state troopers and sheriffs deputies moved in on protesters who have held daily vigils to oppose ICE operations. Using a bullhorn, a Hennepin County sheriff announced, Due to the unlawful conduct and threat to public safety, I hereby declare this to be an unlawful assembly. Police forces advanced shouting, Move back! Move back! Protesters responded that the real criminals were the ICE agents inside the Whipple building, and that it was ICE that was violating a federal judges orders and violating our Fourth Amendment rights. State troopers and deputies then charged, wrestling protesters to the ground and hauling them away. One witness wrote on social media: Hennepin County sheriffs declared an unlawful assembly at the Whipple Building, despite protesters staying behind the fences, out of the road, and well off federal property. They backed protesters into the South Fort Snelling parking lot and then began arrests, kneeling on people and even shooting out a car window with rubber rounds. HCSO may not literally be ICE, but they are bosom buddies and should be treated with equal levels of disdain. Local media reported that 54 people were arrested on Saturday. The Minnesota State Patrol confirmed that 25 of those detained by state troopers were arrested for allegedly failing to disperse. Prior to police declaring an unlawful assembly, fascist Jake Lang menaced the hundreds peacefully protesting from the back of a rented U-Haul truck. Video of the incident shows Lang in the back of the truck with a speakerphone. The fascist proclaimed Jesus is king in between slurs against Somali people and praise for the immigration police. Joining Lang in the back of the truck was a man with a paintball gun and another man with a large wooden cross. Lang, a violent participant in the January 6, 2021 attack on Congress, was arrested earlier in the week on felony charges after defacing an anti-ICE sculpture in front of the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. However, Lang does not appear to have been among those arrested during Saturdays police crackdown. More than a month after Renee Nicole Good was murdered by ICE agent Jonathan Ross, and more than two weeks after Alex Pretti was gunned down by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents Jesus Jesse Ochoa and Raymundo Gutierrez, none of the killers have been arrested or charged with a crime. These events underscore the real meaning of the January 26 phone call between Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and President Trump concerning Homeland Securitys violent Operation Metro Surge. In the wake of the phone call, Walzs office issued a statement claiming the conversation between the governor and Trump had been productive. Walz said, We need to reduce the number of federal agents in Minnesota, and called on Trump to work with the state in a more coordinated fashion on immigration enforcement. Following the call, Trump dispatched his so-called border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota to meet with the Minnesota Sheriffs Association and the Minnesota County Attorneys Association. Homan declared that the meetings had produced unprecedented cooperation in continuing Operation Metro Surge. Under this arrangement, roughly 700 ICE and CBP agents will be freed up for deployment elsewhere, while Minnesota law enforcement agencies will collaborate with the remaining 2,000 federal agents. The use of state troopers and the mobilization of MnDOT to kettle protesters at the Whipple Federal Building has stripped away the mask from Walzs posturing against Trump. Both the Minnesota State Patrol and MnDOT operate under Walzs authority. Responsibility for this police operation cannot be shifted away from the governor or the Democratic Party. Walzs rhetoric has undergone a sharp reversal. Earlier, he described ICE operations by saying, Donald Trumps modern-day Gestapo is scooping folks up off the streets. In a public address last month, Walz said the occupation amounted to a campaign of organized brutality against the people of Minnesota by our own federal government. These denunciations have now given way to open cooperation with the immigration police. Claims promoted by the Democratic Party and the media that violence has declined following Homans arrival are lies. The Democrats are fearful that protest actions by the working class and progressive sections of the middle class could develop into a mass political movement directed not only against the immigration police, but against the capitalist system itself, which is responsible for layoffs, the destruction of healthcare, attacks on social welfare programs, and imperialist war. Phrases such as general strike, along with the accurate characterization of Trumps actions as fascist and aimed at establishing a dictatorship, are increasingly entering the vocabulary of broad layers of workers. Protests continue across Minnesota. Thousands of people are volunteering as constitutional observers, documenting ICE and CBP violence, escorting schoolchildren, and supplying immigrant families with food and protection as federal agents seek to hunt them down. At the same time, the national media is carrying out its own drawdown of coverage. Reporting on events in Minnesota is being quietly dropped. The goal, shared with the Democratic Party and the trade union bureaucracy, is to bring the protests to an end and wear down the movement. Walzs policy of deploying police against demonstrators while urging residents to place their faith in the courts and the November elections is aimed at demobilizing the growing opposition to fascism and dictatorship. The principal obstacle to the development of a general strike and a broader struggle against authoritarianism is the illusion that the Democratic Party can be pressured to fight Trump. The Democratic Party, including its Minnesota affiliate, the Democratic Farmer-Labor Party, defends the capitalist profit system just as fiercely as its Republican counterparts. The February 7 attack on protesters at the Whipple building must therefore be understood as an exposure of the political bankruptcy of the Democratic Party. Because of its loyalty to capitalism, it is worse than useless in the struggles ahead. Through its actions, the party has declared its collaboration with the fascist in the White House. The working class must build new, independent organizations, including rank-and-file committees, to unite workers across industries and initiate a conscious struggle against war, dictatorship and social inequality. MOSCOW, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Russia will respond with all available means in the event of an attack by Europe, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with the NTV channel on Sunday. "If Europe implements its threats to prepare for war against us and starts attacking the Russian Federation, the president has said it will not be a special military operation on our part. It will be a full-fledged military response using all the means at our disposal in accordance with doctrinal documents on this matter," Lavrov noted. Russia is committed to finding a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis, Lavrov said during an annual press conference on Jan. 20, adding that Western countries had taken deliberate steps to undermine the efforts to reach peace agreements. Leaders from Britain, France and Germany showed no interest in resolving the Ukraine crisis and were unwilling to reach peace agreements about it, he said, adding that statements from European figures made it clear that they were seriously preparing for a war with Russia. Venezuelan Stalinist leader Pedro Eusse addressing January 28 rally outside the Peoples Ombudsman Office in Caracas [Photo: aporrea.tvi] The political developments taking place in Venezuela represent a critical strategic experience for the international working class. Washingtons military invasion and abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have undoubtedly laid bare the sheer criminality and ruthlessness of US capitalism and the international imperialist order under its domination. Perhaps even more graphically exposed are the complete rottenness of the Latin American bourgeoisie and the promises of its left-wing representatives of having found an alternative road to emancipation from imperialism and capitalism. The regime founded at the turn of the century by Hugo Chavez, until recently hailed as the harbinger of 21st Century Socialism by the pseudo-left, is giving rise at astonishing speed to one the most outright semi-colonial puppet regimes in the Americas. Measures dating back to a century ago asserting Venezuelan sovereignty over its national resources and politics are being wiped out as the country is fully subordinated to Washingtons imperialist strategy and the control of its massive oil reserves is handed over to US-based energy conglomerates. The Chavista government headed by interim president Delcy Rodriguez, far from being the main target of US imperialism, is closely collaborating with Trump and his fascist cabinet in the plundering of Venezuela. Instead of the promised Latin American liberation from the Monroe Doctrine, history has proven Chavismo to be a midwife for a neocolonial order proclaimed by US imperialism as it confronts its deepest historical crisis. These events are having a deep impact on the consciousness of masses of people in Latin America and internationally and adding to an ongoing process of radicalization and political reorientation. The organizations of the pseudo-left, directly responsible for the catastrophe in Venezuela, are now working desperately to prevent the working class from breaking from the demoralized nationalist bureaucracy and its apparatus. With this reactionary purpose, the different Pabloite and Morenoite tendencies, the Stalinist Communist Party of Venezuela (PCV) and other dissident currents of Chavismo have launched a rotten political bloc to confront the grave situation in Venezuela. These organizations either affiliated to or supporting the National Meeting in Defense of the Peoples Rights led by the Stalinists issued a joint statement calling for opposition to the military aggression and imperialist offensive and to the neocolonial collaboration of the national government with the Trump administration, and demanding democratic liberties. Covered under radical phraseology, this reactionary pseudo-left coalition is aimed at carving out space for these organizations in the new bourgeois setup being established under imperialist siege. Vindicating their position as the official left opposition, their central task is to prevent the working class from drawing the historical lessons from the crisis of Chavismo and developing its independent political movement. The most cynical element in the whole initiative is the blocs claim to represent a position of class independence and independence from any other factor of oppressive power. This assertion is as genuine as Rodriguezs cries to stop Washingtons orders on politics in Venezuela amid the intervals between her discussions with Trump administration officials on organizing the countrys pillage. The manifestos signatories, while proclaiming themselves to be above any factor of oppressive power, dont bother to discuss their own political origins and records. In fact, no political event dating from before January 3, 2026, is mentioned in the documents five pages of conjunctural analysis and action demands. Any historical balance sheet would expose the direct complicity of these pseudo-left organizations in the massive betrayal against the Venezuelan population. The Communist Party of Venezuela (PCV), the principal organizer of this pseudo-left initiative, promoted the election of Hugo Chavez in 1998 and was part of the Chavista coalition in power for more than two decades. Only in 2020 did the PCV withdraw its official support from the Maduro government. After abandoning Maduros PSUV electoral coalition, the Great Patriotic Pole, the Venezuelan Stalinists then founded the Popular Revolutionary Alternative together with parties like Homeland for All (PPT), which occupied high posts in the Chavez government, and the group Class Struggle, affiliated with the Revolutionary Communist International (RCI) led by Alan Woods, who served as one of the most shameless cheerleaders of the Chavistas. Far from a negation of the Chavista bourgeois nationalist project, this bloc accused the Maduro government of breaking with Chavismo and presented itself as its true defender. Associated with these forces, which until recently were part of the Chavista bourgeois regime, are representatives of the different Morenoite currents in the current pseudo-left bloc. Among them are Marea Socialista, affiliated with the International Socialist League (LIS); League of Workers for Socialism (LTS), affiliated with the Permanent Revolution Current (CRP); and the Socialism and Freedom Party (PSL), affiliated with the Workers International Unity (UIT). A division of labor in subordinating workers to Chavismo If anything differentiates these Morenoite organizations from their Stalinist and petty-bourgeois nationalist allies, it is the even more cynical function they fulfilled in the division of labor to subordinate the working class to the Chavista bureaucracy. The CRP, formerly known as Trotskyist Fraction, has long dedicated itself to issuing fraternal polemics against its former comrades in the other Morenoite concurrents, pointing to their zigzags, without any anchoring in the firmest class independence and anti-imperialism, as they moved between calling to stuff the ballot boxes with votes for Chavez and aligning themselves under the supposed banners of democracy raised by the right-wing financed by US imperialism. The fact that the CRP is now joining and promoting this bloc in the La Izquierda Diario website is the clearest indictment of these hollow criticisms. In the moment of gravest crisis faced by these treacherous pseudo-left organizations, the CRP drops its pretenses and aids them in masquerading as the defenders of class independence. But the reactionary character of this pseudo-left bloc cannot be hidden by the clever use of pompous radical phraseology. In a manifesto supposedly advancing an independent class position towards the Venezuelan crisis, one is struck by the complete absence of words such as capitalism, socialism and bourgeoisie (or bourgeois). The word capitalist is used only once in reference to the pro-imperialist opposition led by Maria Corina Machado. In what is supposedly the most combative section of this phony manifesto, under the headline Call for the mobilization of Venezuelan people and international solidarity, one reads: Now more than ever we have the urgent and unpostponable need to work for the unity of the working class and the exploited Venezuelan people around their class interests, and for the rescue of national sovereignty. The organization and mobilization of the people and the working class is essential to overcome the imperialist domination that is being imposed on us. That is why we must recover the possibility of holding assemblies and promoting spaces to assemble in which the Venezuelan people that clearly oppose interventionism participate, where what has happened is discussed, and where a series of demands are put forward to resolve the crisis from the popular sectors and the working class. While they mention the class interests of Venezuelan workers, one would look in vain for an actual explanation of what those interests actually consist. Nor does the statement clarify how to resolve the crisis from the popular sectors and the working class. Intentionally blurring the conflicting class interests within Venezuela, the statements calls for the rescue of national sovereignty and to overcome the imperialist domination is aimed at deceiving the working class and ensuring its subordination to the national bourgeoisie. None of the demands raised by the Morenoite-Stalinist bloc are oriented to the working class and for the development of its political consciousness and independent organization. They direct all their appeals to the bourgeois state itself, illegitimately presenting themselves as spokesmen for the Venezuelan workers. This unmistakable bourgeois orientation was ratified in a demonstration to launch the bloc, held on January 28 in front of the Peoples Ombudsman Office in Caracas. The action was centered on the delivery of a document addressed to the Peoples Ombudsman, Alfredo Ruiz, to demand a public statement regarding the grave political, social and human rights situation the country is experiencing, reported the PCV. The pseudo lefts focus on the demand of political freedoms to the Rodriguez regime coincides, not accidentally, with the banners raised by the right-wing opposition itself. A point in their infamous manifesto states: The prisoners that are being released under imperialist pressure, merit the solidarity and mobilization of the people to accelerate this process and to grant full freedom to all released from prison. The pseudo-left call for a mobilization of the people and the working class to overcome imperialist domination reveals itself, in practice, to be indistinguishable from a united front with the fascistic right to accelerate a transition process driven by imperialist pressure! This shameful political line is in direct continuity with the criminal role fulfilled by these pseudo-left forces in the recent period. In the aftermath of the 2024 presidential elections, both the Morenoites and the Stalinists openly promoted the reactionary movement led by pro-imperialist opposition to overthrow Maduro, endorsing the demonstrations and their fraudulent democratic banners. The Morenoites argued that the popular assemblies of citizens convoked by the CIA asset Machado should be converted into permanent organs. In other words, falsifying the structures organized by US-backed fascists as embryos of popular power. Now, after the US military invasion produced precisely the result that this policy facilitated, these organizations seek to present themselves as opponents of the imperialist offensive and the neocolonial collaboration of the Rodriguez regime! The central lesson of the catastrophic experience with Chavismo and other forms of petty-bourgeois nationalism in Latin America is precisely the need to forge revolutionary leadership on the basis of an intransigent struggle for the political independence of the working class. The historical role fulfilled by Stalinism, aided Pabloite revisionism and its variants, such as Morenoism was precisely to derail the working classs struggle for political independence. These revisionist tendencies represented an attempt to liquidate Trotskyism into the nationalist perspectives of Stalinism, while promoting bourgeois nationalism and petty-bourgeois guerrillaism as substitutes for the conscious and independent mobilization of the working class in the struggle for socialism. As Trotsky wrote in 1937: The modern history of bourgeois society is filled with all sorts of Popular Fronts, i.e. the most diverse political combinations for the deception of the toilers. This tradition was tragically continued throughout the course of the 20th century. In Latin America, it led to the US-backed 1973 coup in Chile, which was prepared by the betrayals of the Unidad Popular government joined by the Stalinists and backed by the Pabloites. In 1976, an equally brutal military regime took power in Argentina facilitated by the subordination of workers to Peronism promoted by Nahuel Moreno. The 21st century Pink Tide was the most recent and decrepit manifestation of the promotion of bourgeois nationalism and popular frontism by the pseudo-left enemies of the working class. The violent eruption of US imperialism is not a symptom of its strength, but of its historical demise. While the preservation of global capitalism doesnt allow for a peaceful reconfiguration of the international order, the conditions for overthrowing the imperialist system as a whole are objectively posed. The working class is being called upon the historical arena to resolve the crisis of humanity and to establish an international socialist society that corresponds to the objective character of globalized economy and the potential of technology. The historic task confronting workers and youth in Venezuela and throughout Latin America is the construction of revolutionary parties based on the strategic lessons of these experiences. This means building sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International, grounded in the intransigent defense of the political independence of the working class, the theory of permanent revolution, and the program of international socialist revolution. Bundeswehr Eurofighters at Rostock-Laage Airport [Photo by Kevin Hackert / flickr / CC BY-NC 2.0 Since 2024, Germanys northern airspace has been systematically converted into a military NATO focal point. The declared goal of the German government and European Union is to close the Baltic defence gap on the eastern flank facing Russia as quickly as possible. This makes the location an essential building block in the aggressive rearmament of German imperialism. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (Social Democratic Party, SPD) leaves no doubt that work is consciously being done towards an open military confrontation with Russia. In two world wars, the German bourgeoisie expanded brutally to the East, leaving behind scorched earth and committing the most monstrous crimes. Today, the German imperialists are openly linking back to this tradition: driving forward the transformation of Germany into Europes leading military power to expand their military and political weight, especially in Northern and Eastern Europe. To this end, the Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) wants to transform the civilian Rostock-Laage airport, located about 30 kilometres from the centre of the East German port city of Rostock and directly bordering the military Laage Air Base, into a military fortress. Officially, since mid-December, the Bundeswehr has been examining the takeover of the airport area, which has operated under civilian control since the 1990s. This is necessary due to the changed security situation, which necessitates a significant growth of the armed forces, including infrastructural needs, a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Defence stated in mid-January 2026. Numerous properties nationwide are also being examined. Laage Air Base is one of the four central Eurofighter locations in Germany, with approximately 920 military personnel and 35 Eurofighter combat jets, forming the backbone of the German combat aircraft fleet, with a total arsenal of some 138 Eurofighters. With its geographical location on Germanys northern coast, only around 700 kilometres as the crow flies from Kaliningrad, it is at the same time one of the most geo-strategically favourable German air bases for rapid access to the Baltic. Under good conditions, and at combat speed (approx. 1,900 km/h), a Eurofighter could reach the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad (formerly Konigsberg) in about 20 minutes. The Luftwaffe (Air Force) maintains the only pilot school nationwide for Eurofighter pilots here, and also monitors the airspace and undertakes interception flights over the Baltic Sea with its Quick Reaction Alert (Alarmrottetwo armed Eurofighters). Temporarily, this was increased by a second Alarmrotte. The squadron regularly participates in NATO operations, such as Operation Eastern Sentry in September 2025. In June 2025, broadcaster NDR reported that the Bundeswehr had earmarked investments amounting to around 1 billion [!] in the coming 10 to 15 years for the further expansion of the location. The planned investments are intended to modernise the runway, energy supply, ammunition depots, squadron and command posts as well as protective structures (against shelling and fire) for the Eurofighter fleet and ammunition such as guided missiles. In truth, the military striking power and protective capability against counter-attack are being increased considerably. The conversion and expansion plans for Laage Air Base are not an isolated case. They fit into the Bundeswehrs operational capability and digital networking Target Image, in which the future Rostock-Laage air base, together with the maritime tactical NATO headquarters CTF Baltic in Rostock, is to play a central role in a digital and fully networked air defence infrastructure on NATOs eastern flank. Even in the unlikely event that the airports previous mixed use (military and civilian) should be maintained for the time being, the airport is being transformed into a fortress from which the new German-European great power policy of Chancellor Friedrich Merz can be aggressively advanced against Russia. With Operation Plan Germany (OPLAN DEU), the Merz government is ensuring that all civilian capacities and infrastructure are subordinated to the needs of the military. Responsibilities for a military emergency were already settled in Berlin at the end of last monthwith the explicit goal of making Germany a host nation and logistical hub for allied troops. The integration of airports, railways, municipal utilities, hospitals and rescue forces into such scenarios means the de facto militarisation of entire branches of civil administration and supply. For some time now, the Luftwaffe has been practicing landing its Eurofighters at civilian airports, which in an emergency would become transshipment points for troops, materiel and fueland thus a regular target for the opposing side. For the Baltic Sea region, which is heavily dependent on tourism, the conversion of Rostock-Laage into a purely military airport would be associated with considerable disadvantages in every respect. Although Mecklenburg-Western Pomeranias largest regional airport receives a comparatively low flight volumearound 10,900 flights, including civilian transport flightsand about 36,000 passengers (2025), numerous jobs in civilian tower and ground operations as well as in tourism and adjacent economic sectors would nevertheless be endangered. Ira Lauth, managing director of the affected operating company, appeared taken by surprise by the Bundeswehr plans. So far, we had worked well with the Luftwaffe and committed to a joint investment in a new instrument landing system at the end of 2025. We want to help provide personnel for the tower, Lauth told broadcaster ntv. The minister president of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Manuela Schwesig (Social Democratic Party, SPD), and Rostocks Mayor Eva-Maria Kroger (Left Party) merely criticised the economic losses. From our point of view, civilian operations should be continued. If the federal government ends its examination with a different result, an end to civilian flight operations would be a loss for the Rostock region, said Kroger. This attitude is not surprising. Paying some tame lip service against rearmament, and demands for a boon for the civilian sector and not just for the Bundeswehr, does not change the fact that the Left Party supported the federal governments enormous militarisation package and budget items at state level that shift the costs of rearmament onto the working class. In March 2025, representatives of the Left Party in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania voted in the Bundesrat (upper house of Parliament) for the federal governments trillion-euro credits for rearmament and military infrastructure spending. And, while at state level, the Left Party had trumpeted in December that it supported young people in the fight against conscription, and cynically demanded a clear rejection of rearmament, it has not wasted a word on the expansion of Rostock port and Rostock-Laage airport into military hubs for German imperialism and NATO. The same applies to the party at federal level. After it had supported the astronomical war credits, it then helped quickly elect Merz as chancellor in the parliamentary vote. The Left Party essentially supports the governments war course, spreads the lie of Russias unprovoked attack on Ukraine and, with a view to the Trump administration and the growing instability of the NATO alliance, demands greater military independence from the US. For example, party co-leader Jan von Aken declared his support for the Bundeswehr in an ntv interview last week, because, We need a strong EU and national defence, and neither works only with cotton balls. Unabashedly, he adopted the federal governments war logic. Armament is also needed, that is part of it, he said, adding, I do not want to think within the framework of NATO, but within the framework of the EU. But of course, we need mutual defence obligations. We cannot throw countries like the Baltic states, Poland or Finland to the wolves [Russia]. This is the language of warmongers! And it is no coincidence. The precursor to the Left Party, the Stalinist party of state (SED/PDS) in the former East Germany, actively supported the introduction of capitalism and thus the prerequisite for the return of German militarism. At the same time, wherever it governs with the SPD and Greens at state level, it enforces the necessary social attacks to shift the horrendous costs of militarisation onto the population. The conversion of the Rostock-Laage air base into a pure NATO base with increased security statuslike the CTF Balticis equally threatening and de facto illegal. With the stationing not only of German but also of NATO pilotsas well as their training and deploymentBerlin would again break the Two Plus Four Treaty, with which the reintroduction of capitalism on the territory of the former East Germany was sealed. It stipulates that no foreign armed forces and nuclear weapons or their carriers may be stationed in or transferred to East Germany. Russia already reacted to the inauguration of the CTF Baltic in 2024 by summoning the German ambassador Alexander Graf Lambsdorff and threatening a corresponding response from the Russian side. That Berlin is systematically undermining the foundation of the Two Plus Four Treaty shows the ruthlessness of the German and European ruling classes, and once again reveals their goal of provoking a war with the nuclear power Russia, and risking the annihilation of all life in Europe. At the same time, Laage is part of a massive European rearmament programme that underpins Germanys claim to a military leadership role. This includes the expansion of satellite networks, the militarisation of space and the expansion of its own long-range capabilities, aimed at military independence of the EU states from the US. This course increases the danger of war and, at the same time, the dominance of the military over civil society. As in the US under the influence of Wall Street, Silicon Valley and the Trump administration, the rulers in Europe are increasingly resorting to authoritarian means and right-wing extremist forces to secure their profits and economic and geopolitical dominance. This policy requires comprehensive attacks on the working and living conditions of the working class and is provoking growing resistance. The spiral of rearmament, repression and social destruction can only be stopped by the international working class organised in a conscious struggle against the capitalist system. The World Socialist Web Site (WSWS) will host an online meeting on the way forward for the 15,000 striking New York nurses and the 31,000 striking healthcare workers in California and Hawaii at 7:30 p.m. EST on Tuesday, February 10. Click here to register for the meeting. The eruption of strikes by healthcare workers on both coasts is a response to the hospital systems relentless drive to obtain ever-greater profits. The strikes also reflect mass opposition to the federal governments dismantling of public health, the spread of anti-vaccine propaganda and the resurgence of preventable diseases such as measles. But the trade union apparatus is determined to shut down the strikes as quickly as possible and impose the demands of management. At the same time, workers and young people are leading mass demonstrations across the country to protest the mass roundups being conducted by ICE. The murder of Alex Pretti, a VA nurse, in Minneapolis shows the assault on immigrants is the leading edge of the ruling-class offensive against the entire working class. Through police repression, the invocation of the Insurrection Act and the nationalization of elections, President Donald Trump intends to establish a dictatorship on behalf of the financial oligarchy that he represents. The opposition to these attacks is growing, and the potential for a united struggle to bring down Trump is enormous. But the most immediate obstacle that workers face is the trade union bureaucracy which seek to prevent any struggle against the capitalist system at the root of the crisis. They direct workers appeals to Democrats, who uphold the profit system and are collaborating in Trumps rampage. Workers must establish their organizational and political independence by forming rank-and-file committees at every workplace. Striking healthcare workers must unite with the growing movement against dictatorship. The wealth of the financial oligarchy must be seized and redirected toward healthcare, education and jobs for all. Protesters gather outside the South Texas Family Residential Center detention facility where Liam Ramos and his father are being detained in Dilley, Texas, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. [Photo: Eric Gay/WSWS] People are being held in the United States under conditions that would violate even the most basic standards of animal welfare. Families seeking asylum are confined in overcrowded detention facilities where sanitation is absent, food and water are often contaminated, medical care is routinely denied, and children are left to deteriorate physically and psychologically. These prisons are designed to break the human beings inside them. The case of an 18-month-old girl identified as Amalia exemplifies the true character of the US immigration detention system. Her near-fatal illness and the subsequent lawsuit filed by her parents expose a system in which children are treated as criminals, disease is allowed to spread unchecked, and even the most basic obligations of care are abandoned. What happened to Amalia was not an accident or an unforeseeable medical emergency. It was the predictable outcome of confining families in squalid, carceral conditions where human life is treated as disposable. Kheilin Valero Marcano and Stiven Arrieta Prieto with their daughter Amalia. [Photo: Elora Mukherjee] Yesterday, Reuters reported that the parents of Amalia, who have been detained at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas since December 11, 2025, filed a federal lawsuit last Friday against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and federal officials under the Department of Homeland Security responsible for her detention and medical care. While in custody, Amalia became critically ill and went into life-threatening respiratory failure. On January 18, she was rushed to Methodist Childrens Hospital in San Antonio, where she was admitted to the intensive care unit and remained hospitalized for 10 days. According to her parents, Amalia developed a high fever in early January that would not subside. She began vomiting and experiencing severe diarrhea, leaving her dangerously dehydrated and struggling to breathe. Despite repeated pleas by her parents for medical attention, detention staff reportedly turned them away, instructing them only to administer basic fever medication. By mid-January, Amalias condition had deteriorated rapidly. She became lethargic and listless as her respiratory failure worsened. On January 18, her blood oxygen saturation levels plunged into the 50scritically low levels that, without immediate medical intervention, would have resulted in her death within a short time. She was transported to the hospital with her mother, where she was finally given supplemental oxygen and nebulized breathing treatments, hydrated with intravenous fluids, and placed under intensive care. Throughout her hospitalization, ICE officers maintained constant supervision over both mother and child. During her medical evaluation, Amalia was diagnosed with COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), viral bronchitis, and pneumonia. She required nutritional supplements after losing approximately 10 percent of her body weight. For a child of her age, the combination of multiple viral respiratory infections with pneumonia represents a severe illness with a prolonged and fragile recovery. Such conditions require close medical follow-up and uninterrupted access to prescribed medications and equipment, including breathing treatments to reduce airway inflammation and prevent relapse. Children recovering from this level of illness remain at high risk of rapid deterioration if care is interrupted. According to reports, Amalias mother remained at her daughters bedside throughout the hospitalization, fearing she would not survive. Despite this, upon Amalias discharge on January 28, the family was informed they would be returned to the Dilley detention center. Once back in custody, Amalias prescribed nebulizer, medications, and nutritional drinks were confiscated by detention staff. Her parents were forced to wait with her each day in long outdoor lines outside the facilitys medical unitknown as the pill lineduring a period of frigid winter weather that had swept across the region. On each occasion, Amalia was given a nutritional supplement but denied access to the breathing medications ordered by her physicians. Elora Mukherjee, a Columbia Law School professor and director of the schools Immigrants Rights Clinic, who filed the legal petition seeking the familys release, told the media that medical experts had submitted affidavits warning that Amalias condition remained exceptionally fragile, particularly in the absence of her prescribed treatments. After initial appeals failed, and following confirmation of a measles outbreak at the Dilley facility, Mukherjee filed an emergency challenge in federal court, which ultimately succeeded in securing the familys release. According to details reported in the media, Amalias parents entered the United States in 2024 after fleeing Venezuela, where they faced persecution for their political opposition to President Nicolas Maduros government. Amalia was born in Mexico during their journey north. Although the family applied for asylum and had been permitted to live in El Paso while their case was pending, they were taken into custody during a routine check-in with immigration authorities. What emerges from the lawsuit is a portrait of the squalid and dangerous conditions under which families are detained at Dilley. As immigration attorney Eric Lee has reported, sanitation is effectively nonexistent. Food is contaminated, water is foul and children receive little to no education. Access to even basic medical care is sporadic and inadequate. A recent STAT News report on the measles outbreak at Dilley by infectious disease physician Dr. Krutika Kuppalli explained that people held in immigration detention centers face a heightened risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases. Due to poor baseline health, malnutrition, and chronic stress, they are also more likely to suffer severe complications once infected. These dangers are well documented. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in October 2025 found that between 2019 and 2023, ICE facilities reported 2,035 influenza cases, 252 mumps cases and 486 hepatitis A cases across just 20 detention centers. Another investigation by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, examining the period from January 1, 2017, through March 22, 2020, identified 1,280 influenza cases, 1,052 chickenpox cases and 301 mumps cases, including dozens of documented outbreaks. Dr. Nathan Lo, the studys lead author, observed: These numbers are pretty shocking, and very concerning. They suggest this vulnerable population is being placed at very high risk for these infections while being detained. Crowding people together and giving them poor access to health care or vaccines makes these detention centers ripe for facilitating infectious outbreaks. As the World Socialist Web Site recently wrote: The measles outbreak at Dilley concentrates many of the main features of the Trump administrations fascist program: the expansion of the police-state apparatus and ICE terror gangs, the erection of a network of modern-day concentration camps, the subordination of human life to profit, and the destruction of all public health protections. The imprisonment of immigrant families under increasingly barbaric conditions is inseparable from the global crisis of capitalismthe wars, economic plunder and climate disruption that have displaced tens of millions, whom the imperialist powers then criminalize and cage. Amalia was released only because her case briefly broke through the legal system. That outcome should not be mistaken for justice. Courts intervene late and selectively, after serious harm has already occurred, and only for those who are able to secure lawyers and public attention. Countless others remain imprisoned under the same conditions, with no recourse at all. What happened at Dilley cannot be solved through lawsuits or administrative fixes. These detention centers are not malfunctioning; they are working as designed. They exist to criminalize immigrants, to confine families in degrading conditions, and to treat human suffering as acceptable collateral damage. Defending immigrant children and families therefore cannot be separated from the broader struggle of the working class. The same political system that cages migrants, dismantles public health protections, and allows preventable disease to spread is one that exploits workers everywhere. The answer is not appeals to the courts, but collective political action. A revolutionary, internationalist perspective is required, one that defends the rights of all people, regardless of nationality or legal status, and unites workers across borders in opposition to a system that profits from repression, disease, and inequality. Marchers carrying pictures of youth slain in 2023 repression [Photo: SERVINDI] Thousands of National University of San Marcos (UNMSM) students, joined by other student groups, relatives of those killed in a 2023 wave of state repression and a contingent of public transport workers from Lima and Callao marched through Lima on January 28 toward the National Congress. The March of Sacrifice was born in the southern Andean regions, such as Ayacucho, Andahuaylas, Juliaca, Cusco, Pichanaqui and Huancabamba. It was organized by the relatives of those murdered between January and March 2023, when newly installed President Dina Boluarte gave shoot-to-kill orders to suppress nationwide protests against the parliamentary coup that ousted her predecessor, Pedro Castillo. At least 50 died under a rain of police bullets. Boluarte herself was removed from office by Congress on October 10, 2025 for permanent moral incapacity, following a string of corruption allegations and polls showing her to be the most unpopular president in the countrys history. The protesters left Juliacathe city most representative of the brutal repression of Andean natives, Quechua and Aymara speakerson January 23. They made the journey to Lima walking long stretches on foot and by bus. Juliaca is a transit hub for trucks carrying goods coming from Cusco, Puno and Apurimac, as well as all Bolivian commerce headed to the Pacific for export. During the trip, they were stopped by police in the coastal city of Canete, 155 km south of the capital. After several hours, the police yielded and allowed the buses to continue. The relatives who had lost their children to police bullets led the January 28 march, carrying posters bearing images of the victims and slogans denouncing impunity for their killers. Also marching were young people wounded by the police in those fateful first three months of 2023. Behind them came Gen-Z collectives that organized through social media and set out from UNMSM. They carried banners denouncing Perus recently installed President Jeri and the capitalist political parties Behind them marched the transport workers. They made reference to the recent murders of drivers in Carabayllo and Comas, two workingclass districts located in the northern part of Lima. According to government figures, there were more than 56 murders of drivers and fare collectors in 2025; the unions put the figure at 180. The union leaders, drawn largely from small transport company operators, have collaborated with police in quelling previous protests. Their demands center on strengthening the repressive apparatus with more militarized policing and more prisons. Clashes broke out when the police banned the march from advancing along Abancay Avenue. This time the police backed down and the march continued along that avenue until it reached Congress. In three of the last four presidential changes, the police opened fire with intent to kill. The latest killing was of youth protester and rapper Eduardo Ruiz Sanz (aka Trvko) at the hands of an undercover police officer during a demonstration on October 15, 2025. That day Gen-Z took to the streets to protest the rise of Jose Jeri to the presidency. Jeri was a corrupt congressman and has taken all his tricks with him to the Government Palace. Every day the newspapers publish more filth associated with Jeri. He staged a clandestine meeting with two Chinese businessmen in a Chinese restaurant, where the president tried to conceal his presence by wearing a hood. The meetings were not on his official schedule. The scandal is known as Chifagate. In Peru, Chinese restaurants are known as chifas. More information has been coming out that Jeri awarded plum government jobs to young women after they made late night visits to his residence. According to RPP and Wayka, Jeris approval rating fell 10 percent between late November 2025 and today, early February 2026, with 56 percent disapproval. Facing presidential elections in April 2026, the congressional party caucuses are debating what would be less harmful: turning a blind eye to Jeris behavior, or to removing him from office. Jeri is Perus eighth president in less than a decade, with four of his predecessors currently in jail. Clara, who was among the people waiting for the marchers to reach Plaza San Martin, told the World Socialist Web Site: I have come to the march to accompany the comrades who have been demanding justice for more than three years. [Former president] Dina Boluarte is a psychopath. She attacked more than 80 Peruvians among those killed, wounded and disappeared. Many [of those who took part in the protests from January to March 2023] are in prison without lawyers to defend them. Jeri is just another servant of the dictatorship. It is more of the same. They simply got rid of Boluarte because her government could not go on any longer. She expressed disdain for the candidates for the presidency and the legislature: Many of the politicians who aspire to the presidency and the legislature [in 2026 two chambers of representatives will be created: senators and deputies] come to the marches to win votes. She also voiced support for the slogan raised by some of the marchers calling for workers to build neighborhood defense committees! This would be an option, she said. Because the police are also full of criminals. They work with the criminals. One in a million is honest. There is a growing radicalization of workers and youth in Peru amid the abject subordination of the unions and so-called left to the bourgeois state. The burning necessity is that of a new revolutionary leadership in the working class dedicated to uniting its struggles with those of workers throughout the Americas and around the world. This means building a Peruvian section of the International Committee of the Fourth International. The kidnapping of NBCs Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthries mother Nancy Guthrie continued to unfold Sunday. According to news reports, the abductor or abductors have demanded $6 million in ransom and threatened the 84-year-old womans life if a 5:00 p.m. Monday deadline is not met. Savannah Guthrie attends the third annual World Mental Health Day Gala, hosted by Project Healthy Minds, at Spring Studios on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, in New York. [AP Photo/Evan Agostini] The elder Guthrie was seized in her house in the early hours on February 1. At 1:47 a.m. her doorbell camera was disengaged, and some 40 minutes later her pacemaker app was disconnected from her cell phone, indicating she was taken from her home at that time. The following morning, family members realized she was missing when she failed to appear at church. Investigators subsequently found blood on the front porch of her house in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, north of Tucson. Nancy Guthrie has heart problems and requires medication. Savannah Guthrie has been quoted as saying that her mother lives in constant pain. The latter is mentally sharp but physically limited, according to her daughter, and unable to walk any distance on her own. She presumably does not have access to her daily medication. This is a frightening and tragic situation for the Guthrie family, no doubt affecting dozens of people at this point and perhaps for the rest of their lives. One can only hope that it ends with Nancy Guthries safe return to her family. The response in the American media to this event, however, is vastly disproportionate to the significance of the event itself. The media has gone into full saturation mode on the Guthrie kidnapping. The evening and morning news television programs have been dominated by the latest developments, which sometimes occupy nearly half of the total coverage. The print media has responded likewise, insisting furthermore that their obsession is shared by everyone else. The Hill, for example, headlined its piece, Search for Savannah Guthries mother captivates an alarmed nation, and continued: The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has left much of the country on edge. Along the same lines, USA Today carried an article, Why Savannah Guthries missing mother is captivating the nation, which argued that the vulnerability of Nancy Guthrie, an elderly woman described as having mobility problems, as a possible victim of a violent crime, is sickening and deeply uncomfortable. Our society is supposed to protect the young and the old, and somehow Nancy Guthrie became endangered anyway. How safe is anyone? It is highly questionable whether the disappearance has captivated the nation, although no doubt the kidnapping of a well-known television personalitys family member, with all the unanswered questions surrounding it, has aroused interest and genuine concern. The American media is undoubtedly mesmerized by the episode. First of all, this has happened to one of them or to one of their family members. The media personalities assume the general public is as fascinated by them and their lives as they themselves are. USA Today claims we know that it is an incident that is deeply, horrifically sad and frightening. And we cant stop watching and waiting for news. When tragedy hits the lives of the rich and famous, the American public cant help but tune in. Such a comment removes events from their social and cultural context. Celebrities are endlessly marketed to the American public as the people that count, the only people that count, and the relentless bombardment, under conditions in which so many millions lead bleak and uninviting lives, has its impact. But this should not be overstated. A mass movement of opposition to the establishment and the status quo generally is developing. The president, many of his officials, law enforcement and the rest are increasingly held in contempt by large numbers of people, who are openly standing up to and resisting their dictates. A considerable number of celebrities, individuals who have actually earned popular respect for their genuine talents in many cases, are loudly denouncing the actions of their own government and its agencies. A healthy disrespect for the rich, for authority and for the official political system and culture is emerging. In other words, the stagnant, suffocating celebrity culture is beginning to fall apart. In the overwhelming media response to the Guthrie case, there is also the inevitable element of deliberate social distraction. The various bourgeois news organizations welcome an incident like this, with its socially neutral character, a story that holds human interest for everyone, as a means of removing the focus from the Trump administrations drive to war and dictatorship, the Democratic Partys complicity, ICEs crimes and killings, as well as the desperately painful economic conditions facing tens of millions. The American media always has the need to change the subject, because the subject is always threatening and ominous. Moreover, we need to point out the vast difference in the depth of the coverage of the Guthrie kidnapping and that devoted to the thousands of abductions (and often deportations) of ordinary people by ICE and the rest of the fascist paramilitary apparatus set in motion by the Trump administration. These go largely unreported or vastly under-reported by the official outlets. Simply to recount a few of these kidnappings or attacks. Federal immigration agents forced open a door and detained US citizen ChongLy Scott Thao in his Minnesota home at gunpoint without a warrant, then led him out onto the streets in his underwear in subfreezing conditions, according to his family and videos reviewed by the Associated Press. Masked agents forced their way in and pointed guns at the family, yelling at them, Thao recalled. I was shaking, he said. They didnt show any warrant; they just broke down the door. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents pulled Alberto Castaneda Mondragon from a friends car on January 8 outside a St. Paul shopping center and threw him to the ground, handcuffing him, then punching him and striking his head with a steel baton. He remembers being dragged into an SUV and taken to a detention facility, where he said he was beaten again. In another episode, typical of many, Suddenly, four unmarked cars pulled up and surrounded (three individuals). The cars were large and black with tinted windows and had no license plates. The doors opened and men in masks with guns started running at them aggressively. One of the men had a large military-style gun. The masked men wore regular clothes, they had no visible badges, and they did not identify themselves. These agents have more in common with the members of Latin American death squads than even hardened criminals carrying out a desperate kidnapping. In addition to the thousands of immigrants who have been assaulted, ProPublica found that 170 US Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. Theyve Been Kicked, Dragged and Detained for Days. Among the detentions in which [ICE] allegations have not stuck, masked agents pointed a gun at, pepper sprayed and punched a young man who had filmed them searching for his relative. In another, agents knocked over and then tackled a 79-year-old car wash owner, pressing their knees into his neck and back. His lawyer said he was held for 12 hours and wasnt given medical attention despite having broken ribs in the incident and having recently had heart surgery. In a third case, agents grabbed and handcuffed a woman on her way to work who was caught up in a chaotic raid on street vendors. In a complaint filed against the government, she described being held for more than two days, without being allowed to contact the outside world for much of that time. These events are sickening and deeply uncomfortable. The society is indeed supposed to protect the young and the old, but it has ruthlessly and cruelly declared war on many of them. How safe is anyone under those conditions? The cases noted here are only a few of the countless horror stories. Under which conditions will the US media become captivated by these frightening and tragic situations? 25 years ago: USS Greeneville sinks Japanese fishing vessel, killing 9. On February 9, 2001, off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, the US nuclear-powered submarine USS Greeneville collided with the Japanese fishing vessel Ehime Maru, killing nine. The submarine had executed an emergency ballast blowa maneuver designed to propel it rapidly to the surfacebut in doing so, it struck and fatally damaged the Ehime Maru, which sank within ten minutes. Among those killed by the reckless act were four Japanese high school students studying the fishing industry, two teachers, and three crew members. The Greeneville suffered only superficial damage, though repairs cost several million dollars. A US Navy submarine carrying out a ballast blow Commander Scott Waddle had welcomed 16 wealthy and well-connected civilian guests aboard the submarine to experience what was in effect a joy rideand a public relations stunt for the US Navy. Two of these individuals occupied control positions at crucial movements during the ballast blow maneuver, compromising safety. The Greeneville was also operating outside its designated training area and used passive sonar instead of an active system that would have provided a clearer picture of nearby vessels on the surface. The submarines sonar actually detected the Ehime Maru prior to the collision, but the information was ignored. This disaster revealed once again the US militarys contempt for civilian lives, fueling outrage in Japan. After the crash, Waddle arrogantly refused to apologize for the sinking of the civilian ship and the deaths of four students. Survivors said that rescue efforts from the Greeneville were insufficient. Although the Navy officially blamed Waddle for the accident, he was neither court-martialed, imprisoned or charged with criminal misconduct. Instead, he was honorably discharged and allowed to retire. 50 years ago: Nigerian head of state assassinated On February 13, 1976, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, the 37-year-old head of the Nigerian Federal Military Government, was assassinated in an early morning ambush in Lagos. While he was traveling by car, a group of soldiers in civilian attire opened fire with automatic weapons, killing the general, his aide-de-camp and his driver. The assassination was the initiation of a coup attempt led by Lieutenant Colonel Buka Suka Dimka. The plotters seized the national radio station to broadcast a decree establishing a young revolutionaries government and accusing Muhammeds administration of going communist. However, the uprising failed to gain traction within the broader military, and within six hours loyalist forces regained control of the capital. General Murtala Muhammed, center, with his Chief of Staff Olusegun Obasanjo, right Dimka fled, first seeking refuge at the British High Commission before escaping the city, prompting a weeks-long manhunt that ended in his capture in eastern Nigeria. After the coup was suppressed, the ruling Supreme Military Council quickly appointed Lieutenant General Olusegun Obasanjo to succeed Muhammed. After the news broke, tens of thousands of students and workers took to the streets to oppose the coup, directing their anger at imperialist diplomatic missions. Protesters stormed the British High Commission and the US Embassy, smashing windows and demanding that the UK extradite the former, imperialist-aligned leader Yakubu Gowon, who was living in exile in Britain and whom many Nigerians believed to be the ultimate beneficiary of the plot. Public suspicion was further fueled by revelations that the British High Commissioner, Sir Martin Le Quesne, had hosted Dimka for fifteen minutes following the assassination but waited several hours before reporting the meeting to Nigerian authorities. Muhammed had risen to power only seven months earlier, in July 1975, through a bloodless coup that ousted Gowon. He won substantial popular support through an anti-corruption campaign, mass purges of the civil service, and promises of a return to civilian rule, while internationally adopting a more assertive posture by defying pressure from the Ford administration and backing the MPLA, the Soviet-aligned Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola, in the Angolan Civil War. These measures reflected the outlook of a layer of the national bourgeoisie and military elite that sought to stabilize the post-colonial state by modernizing its administration and curbing the most flagrant abuses of the comprador elite, while ensuring that the essential control of international capitalabove all over Nigerian oilremained intact, a balancing act that would continue under Obasanjo. 75 years ago: Dockworkers begin largest industrial action in New Zealands history On February 13, 1951, New Zealand dockworkers began a strike against low wage increases and poor working conditions that would become the largest industrial action in the countrys history. The dockworkers, one of the most militant sections of New Zealands working class, had previously won a 6 percent wage increase amid high cost of living increases. In January 1951, the Arbitration Court issued a general wage increase of 15 percent to industrial workers covered by the arbitration system. This did not include the dockworkers belonging to the Waterside Workers Union (WWU), who were largely employed by British companies. Those employers instead offered only a 9 percent increase to cover the difference from the previous negotiations. Ships in Wellington Harbor during the 1951 wharf strike Many dockworkers responded by refusing to work overtime, beginning on February 13, when the WWU executive sent out a notice to all branches to impose an overtime ban from 5 p.m. onwards. The vast majority of New Zealands ports rapidly came to a standstill in the following days, as the waterside employers responded with a lockout, penalizing and dismissing workers who refused to work the extra hours. New Zealand dockworkers quickly came under attack from a hostile National Party government led by Sidney Holland, which had come to power in 1949 with the promise to crack down on militant unionism. The government imposed harsh measures, including sending in military personnel to replace the strikers, prohibiting meetings of striking workers, and even prohibiting people from giving food to striking workers or their families. The Labour Party gave no support to the dockworkers, with its leader Walter Nash declaring that we are not for the waterside workers, and we are not against them. The strike continued for 151 days, at its peak mobilizing 22,000 workers not only from the ports, but also in the mining and hydro-electricity sectors. But the strike ended in a defeat, and with the disbanding of the WWU and the seizing of its assets. 100 years ago: Mussolini issues threats to Germany over South Tyrol On February 10, 1926, the Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini made an aggressive speech against Germany over the question of the national rights of German speakers in northern Italy. In the words of the New York Times, he again warned Germany to watch her step in meddling in what he considers internal Italian affairs. Mussolinis speech was a response to a statement from the German Reichstag opposing the Italian governments attempts to impose Italian culture on the inhabitants of the South Tyrol region. The Reichstag, in turn, was responding to an even more vitriolic anti-German address to the Italian parliament by Mussolini on February 6 that drew world attention. At issue was the fascists effort to Italianize South Tyrol, a predominantly German-speaking region in Northern Italy that Italian imperialism had acquired from Germanys ally in World War I, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, after its break-up in 1918. Mussolinis February 6 speech had rejected German protests against Italian policies in the area, framing his response as a true Fascist style clarification of Italys sovereign rights. He declared that Italy would meet any boycott by Germany with reprisals raised to the third power, famously stating that Italy was prepared to exact two eyes for the loss of only one eye. The Reichstags statement, which had been approved by all political parties except the German Communist Party, was equally nationalistic. In a phrase that foreshadowed Hitlers ultimatum to Czechoslovakia in 1938, it stated: The German people will not permit themselves to be hindered from demanding the just treatment of German minorities under foreign rule. Gustave Stresemann German Foreign Minister Gustav Stresemann said in a speech the same day, Germanys right to sympathize with its blood brothers is a natural right of which we shall permit nobody to deprive us there is no doubt about the deliberate de-Germanization of the Southern Tyrol. Stresemann was correct. Fascist nationalism was on the rampage in South Tyrol. The Italian government banned the German language in schools, courts, and public administration. Even German town names, first names, and inscriptions on tombstones were forcibly changed to Italian versions. Stresemann, however, led Germany in de-escalating the conflict because Germany was intent on normalizing its status as an equal imperialist power. German imperialism supported the 1925 Treaties of Locarno, which legitimized postwar European borders and prepared the way for the membership of Germany in the League of Nations in September. Stresemann was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1926 for his role in normalizing Germanys role in Europe. On February 5, workers at BYDs high-voltage electrical equipment factory in the Jixian Industrial Park of Xians High-tech Zone walked off the job in a collective strike against savage cuts to their piece-rate bonuses. Under BYDs ongoing cost-reduction drive, the maximum monthly piece-rate bonusa critical component of workers meagre incomeswas slashed from 2,400 yuan to as little as 300-600 yuan. After mandatory deductions for social insurance and housing fund contributions, many workers reported that their monthly take-home pay had fallen below 2,000 yuan (approximately $US290). To put this figure in perspective: 2,000 yuan per month amounts to roughly $3,480 per year. Meanwhile, BYD founder, chairman and CEO Wang Chuanfu commands an estimated personal fortune of $28.5 billion, according to Forbes last year. A single BYD factory worker earning 2,000 yuan per month would have to work for more than 8.2 million years to accumulate the wealth that Wang possesses today. This huge disparity is not an aberration but the very foundation of BYDs business model, in which base wages are deliberately set barely aboveand sometimes scarcely atlocal minimum wage levels, forcing workers to depend on overtime, bonuses, and performance supplements that can be withdrawn at managements discretion. The Xian strike is far from an isolated event. It is the latest eruption in a pattern of escalating labour unrest across BYDs vast manufacturing empire that stretches back years and spans multiple countries and Chinese provinces. In May 2024, workers at BYDs Wuxi factoryformerly owned by the US-based electronics manufacturer Jabilstruck after the company imposed a new schedule that eliminated overtime, the primary mechanism through which workers had supplemented their poverty-level base wages. BYDs base pay in Wuxi was set at just 2,490 yuan, barely above the legal minimum. The elimination of overtimewhich Chinese labour law requires to be compensated at 1.5 to 2 times the regular ratecaused actual monthly incomes to plummet. The situation intensified dramatically in late March and early April 2025, when more than 1,000 workers at the Wuxi plant walked out on March 2829, followed by their counterparts at BYDs Chengdu factory from March 31 to April 1. The grievances were similar: performance-based wage deductions, elimination of even token benefits such as a 30-yuan birthday subsidy, arbitrary position transfers and demotions. Above all, anger at the Wuxi plant was directed at BYDs flagrant violation of promises made during its 15.8 billion yuan acquisition of Jabils Green Point operations in December 2023, when management pledged that wages and conditions would remain unchanged for at least 18 months. Police were deployed to the Wuxi factory, where cloth screens were erected to block the protesters from public view. In Chengdu, riot police and SWAT teams forcibly dismantled the strike on April 2 last year, with arrests reported. One worker had already been detained for five days in mid-March merely for protesting a demotion. A sign for BYD is displayed near a factory under construction in Camacari, Bahia state, Brazil, Thursday, March 6, 2025. [AP Photo/Eraldo Peres] The pattern of exploitation extends beyond Chinas borders. In December 2024, Brazilian authorities rescued at least 163 Chinese workers from what prosecutors described as conditions analogous to slavery at a construction site for a new BYD plant in Camacari, Bahia. The site was shut down, delaying the opening of the facilitythe companys first passenger car plant outside Asialast year. According to HK Labour Rights Monitor website, The investigation revealed shocking abuses: some workers slept on bare beds, with 31 people sharing a single toilet. Food and personal items were stored in unsanitary conditions. Workers were reportedly forced to wake as early as 4 am, endured excessive work hours without rest days, and in some cases worked for 25 days straight. Workers had their passports confiscated, up to 60 percent of wages withheld and were forced to work shifts of up to 12 hours a day, seven days a week, for as many as 25 consecutive days. Federal prosecutors subsequently filed a lawsuit seeking 257 million reais (approximately $US45 million) in damages, which has since been settled for just 40 million reais. For 17 years, from 2008 to 2025, BYDs labour regime has been tacitly backed by multi-billionaire speculator, Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world. Berkshire Hathaway, Buffetts investment vehicle, held a major stake in BYD, originally acquired for $230 million in 2008 at the urging of his late partner Charlie Munger, who described Wang Chuanfu as a combination of Thomas Edison and Jack Welch. At its peak, Berkshires BYD stake was worth over $9 billiona roughly 40-fold return. The investment generated an estimated $7 billion in profit. Throughout this period, as BYD workers endured poverty wages, police crackdowns on strikes, passport confiscations abroad, and systematically broken promises, Berkshire Hathaway remained a prominent shareholder, lending its prestige and that of Buffett personally to the company. Berkshire began selling in August 2022 and completed its full exit by early 2025. Buffett offered no criticism of BYDs highly exploitative labour practices. His only public comment in 2023 was that BYD was an extraordinary company run by an extraordinary person, but that he would find things to do with the money that Ill feel better about. The recurring strikes at BYD expose the character of capitalist exploitation in China and BYDs rise as the worlds dominant electric vehicle manufacturer. BYD reported revenue of 777.1 billion yuan in 2024 and net profit of over 40 billion yuan. Wang Chuanfus personal fortune places him among the wealthiest individuals on the planethe was listed by Forbes last year as the 9th wealthiest of Chinas billionaires. Yet the workers who produce this wealthnow numbering over 900,000, making BYD the largest publicly traded employer in Chinaare paid wages that, in many factories, leave them unable to meet basic living costs without gruelling overtime. The All-China Federation of Trade Unions, the only legally permitted union body, functions not as a representative of workers but an arm of management and the state, suppressing independent organisation and channelling discontent into harmless outlets. Workers who attempt to organise or protest rapidly face police repression, dismissal, and detention. The Xian strike, like those before it in Wuxi, Chengdu, and Changsha, demonstrates that the Chinese working class is not prepared to accept these conditions. While the Chinese state media and bureaucracy provide no statistics publicly on industrial action, wildcat strikes and protests have markedly increased since 2023, particularly over unpaid wages and wage cuts, according to organisations that attempt to monitor strike activity from outside China. LONDON, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Mark Logan, a former British Member of Parliament (MP) who has worked in China for many years, said that Western perceptions of China are far from the reality he has experienced through his personal and professional interactions with the country over the past two decades. Speaking on the sidelines of the China Development Forum 2026 held at the London School of Economics and Political Science, Logan told Xinhua on Saturday that China remains widely misunderstood in Western societies, and that many of its positive cultural and social characteristics have yet to be fully recognized. Born in Northern Ireland, Logan worked in China for many years before entering politics. He was elected to the British House of Commons to represent Bolton North East in 2019 and served until 2024. "For someone like myself, I've always been mesmerized by Chinese culture," he said. Recalling his early exposure to China, Logan said that Chinese culture was already visible in everyday life where he grew up. "The population of my hometown is 50,000, but 20 years ago it already had 24 Chinese restaurants," he said. Logan said one of the most striking aspects of Chinese society is its openness and friendliness towards ordinary people. "Chinese people are so friendly and welcoming, they want you to come into their culture, understand it and exchange," he said. He argued that there is a clear asymmetry in how China and Britain view one another. "The average person in China knows many things about Britain, and often has a positive impression of the country that I come from," he said, "but on the other side, Britain doesn't have that same interpretation of China." Logan noted the increasing visibility of British leaders in China through social media and cultural affinity, adding that the recent visit by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has attracted considerable attention on Chinese social media platforms. Looking at the broader global picture, Logan said China's role in world affairs is an objective reality that cannot be ignored. "China is a reality, and it is going to have increasing influence on world affairs," he said. He criticized what he described as a long-standing Western assumption that other countries would converge toward Western models. "I have always felt it has been arrogant for the West to believe that only China and other countries would become more like us," he said. "There are things that China does better or more efficiently." Describing the Chinese society as "very positive, forward-looking and solution-focused," the former MP said that Western societies need to acknowledge China's achievements more openly. "The West has to recognize that China has done very well and that there are things which China has achieved." CHANGCHUN, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Amid the freezing cold and snow-covered houses of his village in northeast China's Jilin Province, Kong Xiangling moves comfortably around the kitchen before the Chinese New Year, tending a biomass stove as a pot of sauerkraut and pork simmers, filling the air with its rich aroma. Hot water from the stove flows through pipes to the radiators, keeping the room at above 20 degrees Celsius, a sharp contrast to the smoky, frigid winters in Tangjiagangzi, Baishishan Town of Jiaohe City, that Kong remembers from decades ago. "We used to burn firewood for everything, whether cooking, heating our kang beds, or just keeping warm," Kong recalled. "The kitchen was always thick with smoke that stung our throats and frost clung to every corner of the house. I would get up before dawn to add coal and clear out the ash, and my relatives would always complain about the smoke whenever they visited." That harsh reality has eased in recent years thanks to China's push for clean energy in rural areas. Kong and more than 100 other households in her village have witnessed dramatic changes. Pit latrines have been replaced by flush toilets, coal stoves swapped for clean biomass ones and tap water has eliminated the daily chore of carrying water from wells. "A handful of compressed straw does the work of both cooking and heating now," she said. "No smoke, no odor, and it saves us money." The old coal stove now sits in the corner as a relic of the past. Jiaohe City has been a pioneer in this transformation. It is the only county in the three northeastern provinces chosen as one of China's first rural energy revolution pilot zones. Beyond promoting biomass stoves, the city is developing a medium-deep geothermal heating project in Baishishan Town that will cover 593,000 square meters and put an end to coal-burning heating for good. Hundreds of kilometers to the east, in Tianqiaoling Town of Wangqing County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, clean energy is also transforming winter life. Inside the snow-covered Taoyuan black fungus industrial park, constant-temperature greenhouses hum with activity as steam curls through the air and clusters of plump black fungus grow steadily on the racks. Yan Cuilian, a villager working at the industrial park, holds a power detector and watches the stable current reading with relief. "Even when heavy snow blocks the roads, our greenhouses never lose power thanks to the electrified equipment," she said. "That used to be unthinkable." Perched on China's border, Wangqing long struggled with an unstable power supply. As a remote area at the edge of the national grid, winter snow and rain often froze power lines, causing blackouts. Traditional black fungus farming was entirely weather-dependent, and once winter arrived, work ground to a halt, leaving villagers with little to do but wait out the cold. "We couldn't even watch TV freely in the old days, let alone grow fungus in winter," recalled Yan. "The voltage was always fluctuating, and appliances would trip constantly." Everything changed in 2023, when the State Grid Jilin Electric Power Company Limited launched a county-level autonomous clean energy power grid in Wangqing. Engineers braved temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius to climb snow-covered mountains and survey photovoltaic sites. They went door to door, listening to villagers' energy needs and promising a self-sufficient power solution. "We were skeptical at first," Yan said. "But within a few months, the photovoltaic bases, small hydropower stations and energy storage stations were all linked together, and our power problems were solved for good." Song Xiaozhe from the State Grid Jilin Electric Power Company Limited explained the technology behind the transformation. "The source-grid-load-storage autonomous balance system provides minute-level power generation forecasting, second-level power balancing, and millisecond-level control response," Song said. "It is like a safety airbag for the local power grid." With stable power, industries in Wangqing have flourished. Jin Shunyu, a villager, said her electric heater and washing machine now run smoothly all the time. "The house is warm and cozy, and even my pickle ferments faster," she laughed. "My children bought us an apartment in the city, but we don't want to leave. This village is clean, warm, and full of life." Tang Datao, director of Wangqing's special industry development service center, noted that clean energy has turned winter from a season of idleness into a time of income. "Fields used to lie barren in winter, but now green power allows us to grow crops and earn money all year round," he said. From biomass stoves in Jilin's hinterland to clean energy greenhouses on the eastern border, these changes reflect a broader push for new energy and align with China's commitment to green development. According to the 2026 Jilin provincial government work report, the output value of the province's new energy industry soared by more than 200 percent during China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). This year, the province plans to add 10 million kilowatts of new energy installed capacity, expand applications of green low-carbon technologies, and foster a green manufacturing ecosystem, as the report noted. "For villagers, this means warmer, cleaner winters and a brighter future," Tang said. Braden Peters, a popular Gen-Z streamer known by the name Clavicular, was arrested by Scottsdale police after they said he entered a bar while underage Feb. 7. Peters is known for his provocative stunts and social media presence, and he has garnered criticism for frequently using slurs and making racist comments. Police were called around 11 p.m. to Casa Amigos, at 7320 E Indian Plaza in Scottsdale, where Peters was arrested on suspicion of using a fake ID to enter a bar. Advertisement Advertisement Officers investigated and learned Peters is 20 years old, said Officer Aaron Bolin of the Scottsdale Police Department. Police said Peters went into the bar with a "camera person and bodyguard." While searching Peters, officers found two prescription-only pills and a fake ID, Bolin said. Police booked Peters on suspicion of possession of dangerous drugs, possession of a forged instrument and for using a fake ID to enter a bar. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office will ultimately decide whether to pursue the charges recommended by police. Peters' initial appearance in front of a judge was on Feb. 8. Reach reporter Helen Rummel at hrummel@azcentral.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Controversial streamer Clavicular arrested at Scottsdale bar CAIRO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- A rubber boat carrying 55 migrants capsized off Libya's coast on Feb. 6, leaving 53 people, including two infants, dead or missing, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Monday. The vessel overturned north of the coastal city of Zuwara, and only two Nigerian women were rescued in a search-and-rescue operation by Libyan authorities, the IOM said, adding that both survivors reported losing close family members. Former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker has commented on the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. He highlighted key aspects of the case, including the handling of ransom demands and the absence of verified proof of life. Chris Swecker's remarks come as the family has shared public appeals for her safe return. At the same time, law enforcement continues to gather evidence at the scene of Nancy Guthrie's alleged kidnapping. Former FBI Top Official Expresses Doubts In Nancy Guthrie Case Instagram | Savannah Guthrie A former senior FBI official is casting doubt on claims that Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy, is alive and being held by kidnappers. Advertisement Advertisement Chris Swecker, who previously served as an FBI Assistant Director, said he finds the situation highly questionable during an appearance on Fox News' "The Big Weekend Show" on Sunday. "I'm very skeptical of this," Swecker said, per the New York Post. "Is this really a kidnapping? Does somebody really have her, and is she really alive?" His comments came after Savannah and her two siblings shared emotional appeals on social media, urging those who claim to have their mother to bring her home. The family has reportedly agreed to meet ransom demands that have climbed as high as $6 million. Advertisement Advertisement Swecker pointed out that in genuine kidnapping cases, proof of life is usually straightforward to provide, something he says has not happened here in any credible or verified way. "If this was a kidnapping, it would be a very simple matter to authenticate and provide proof of life," he explained. "You have to allow for the possibility that this was something more or something other than a kidnapping." The Former FBI Official Raised Concerns Over Changing Ransom In Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance MPI28/Capital Pictures / MEGA Swecker also questioned the rapidly changing ransom amounts, noting that the demand reportedly jumped from $1 million to $6 million within a short period of time. "I really think there's a third party here that's just playing with them, opportunists who think they can exploit this situation," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Since Nancy's disappearance from her home in Tucson, at least two messages claiming to be ransom notes have circulated. One of them, sent to multiple media organizations last week, outlined two deadlines, one that has already passed and another set for Monday, according to FBI officials. Savannah Guthrie's Mother's Last Sighting Before Her Disappearance Lisa OConnor/AFF-USA.com / MEGA Authorities say Nancy was last seen on January 31. She was reported missing the following day after a friend from church said she never arrived for a service on February 1. Police believe the elderly woman was taken "against her will." On February 6, the FBI and the Pima County Sheriff's Department confirmed they were reviewing another note connected to the case. Advertisement Advertisement "Investigators are actively inspecting the information provided in the message for its authenticity," the sheriff's department said in a statement posted on X. Meanwhile, law enforcement activity ramped up Friday at the Tucson residence of Nancy as investigators intensified efforts to uncover new information surrounding her disappearance. Several police vehicles were stationed at the home for much of the day, and authorities were later seen towing away a blue SUV from the property. Search Expands As Law Enforcement Increases Efforts In Nancy Guthrie Case Instagram | Savannah Guthrie Besides towing away the SUV, investigators were also observed removing what appeared to be a device from the roof, though officials have not clarified what role, if any, the items play in the ongoing case. Advertisement Advertisement The Pima County Sheriff's Office has not yet said why the vehicle was taken for examination. While detectives continue to search the home, officials say the investigation is widening beyond Arizona's borders. FBI Phoenix Public Affairs Officer Brooke A. Brennan confirmed that billboards featuring Nancy's image and FBI contact details will soon be displayed across parts of Texas, New Mexico, and California in hopes of generating new leads. Authorities are again urging anyone with information to reach out to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. A $50,000 reward remains available for tips that result in Nancy's safe recovery "and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance." Investigators Review Timeline In Savannah Guthrie's Mother's Disappearance Due To Missing Doorbell Cam ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Investigators are also working to piece together a clearer timeline of Nancy's final known hours. Advertisement Advertisement Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said her doorbell camera stopped functioning around 1:47 a.m. early Sunday, a time when investigators believe she was still inside the home and asleep. Although the camera went offline, motion was later recorded around 2:12 a.m., leaving a roughly 20-minute gap that remains unexplained. NBC News law enforcement analyst Tom Winter said the interruption could have been intentional. He suggested the camera may have been tampered with as a way to "test" whether law enforcement would respond immediately, though he cautioned that investigators have not yet identified which camera detected the later motion. Authorities have also confirmed that blood discovered outside the residence has been identified as Nancy's. Speaking during a press briefing, Sheriff Nanos said the evidence makes clear that she did not leave voluntarily and that the home is being treated as an active crime scene. NEED TO KNOW Aisha Chigga, a Russian TikTok star, reportedly gave birth to her child on Dec. 14, though her baby died shortly after A midwife, who allegedly claimed to have obstetric skills but had no medical degree or qualifications, helped deliver the baby, per investigators The Savelovsky District Court of Moscow ordered the midwife to be detained, accusing the woman of illegally practicing medicine without a license A midwife has been detained in Moscow, Russia, after allegedly helping deliver an influencers baby without the proper medical credentials. On Dec. 14, Russian influencer Aisha Chigga who is known by 1.5 million followers on TikTok for dancing and lifestyle videos gave birth to her child at her apartment in Moscow, though her childs condition quickly deteriorated and the child died shortly after, reported Fontanka, a regional Russian news outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Per Fontanka and MSK1, both of which cited a government investigation, Chiggas baby was delivered by a 60-year-old woman who allegedly claimed to have obstetric skills but had no medical degree or qualifications. "According to investigators, a woman born in 1965, not a medical professional, lacking a higher medical education, and lacking a qualification in Obstetrics and Gynecology, while claiming to have obstetric skills, agreed to provide obstetric services to a local resident," the Russian Investigative Committee told MSK1 in a statement. The outlet also reported that Chiggas birth allegedly took place in an inflatable pool. According to Fontanka and MSK1, the Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case for the midwife under articles of the Criminal Code regarding the illegal practice of medicine. Advertisement Advertisement The Savelovsky District Court of Moscow has ordered a two-month pretrial detention for the midwife, according to a statement released by the courts press service, which included images of the midwife behind bars. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. She is accused of illegally practicing medicine without a license and performing work or providing services that do not meet safety requirements, read the statement. Investigators believe the woman, who has no medical training, provided obstetric care during the birth. According to MSK1, Chigga was hospitalized after giving birth to her child. Her sister, Sofia, told the outlet in December that Aisha was feeling as normal as possible in her condition. Read the original article on People The dating buzz surrounding Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton has picked up speed once again after they were spotted together at the Super Bowl 2026 at Levis Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This ended up sending social media into a frenzy. Following their joint appearances in the U.K and Paris, France, fans are already excited to learn more about them. Moreover, Hamilton and Kardashians chemistry and seemingly coordinated looks had the fans cheering on social media. Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton spotted watching the Super Bowl 2026 together Lewis Hamilton and Kim Kardashian attend the #SuperBowlLX pic.twitter.com/jjpwrHkfyg deni (@fiagirly) February 9, 2026 Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton, who were previously spotted vacationing together in the Cotswolds, U.K., over a weekend and later in Paris, France, have added another page to their book of dating rumors. The alleged couple was recently spotted at the Super Bowl 2026 together, enjoying the matchup between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. The pair were also shown on the big screen as they were spotted laughing and talking. For this occasion, Kardashian wore a stylish black fur coat. With full-sleeved style, a dramatic collar, and an oversized silhouette. This elegant pick worked wonders for her frame. She also accessorized with black sunglasses, delicate earrings, a matching ring, and a diamond choker. Meanwhile, Hamilton matched her sass with simplicity in a full-sleeved black sweatshirt with a mock-zip neckline. He also added studs to add some elegance to the look. Advertisement Advertisement They both looked great together. As soon as the viral clip made its way over to social media, fans shared their views on this rumored couple. While one fan exclaimed that they look good together, another added, New love new vibes hope they remain happy in the coming years. A few others agreed, saying, They look so cute together, love this for them! Meanwhile, a lip reader, after seeing the viral clip, has told Daily Mail that Hamilton had asked Kardashian to see his mother. However, the SKIMS co-founder appeared to shuffle uncomfortably in her seat before saying, Okay. Originally reported by Mehak Walia on Reality Tea. The post Kim Kardashian & Lewis Hamilton Seemingly Hard Launch Romance at Super Bowl appeared first on Mandatory. Feb. 9 (UPI) -- The deadline on a purported ransom note neared Monday as the search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, entered its ninth day. Nancy Guthrie's children released a third video Saturday asking for the return of their mother. Police have a vehicle of interest that was towed from near the Guthrie home. "We beg you now to return our mother to us -- so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace," Savannah Guthrie said. "We will pay." Advertisement Advertisement Digital billboards in Texas, New Mexico and California have been erected in the hunt for information that might lead to Guthrie's return. The suspected abductors are believed to have sent ransom notes threatening Nancy Guthrie's life if they don't get $6 million by 5 p.m. Monday, KGUN reported. Police were guarding Guthrie's Arizona home and carried out the investigation in multiple locations, CNN reported. Friday Morning, Former Today co-host Hoda Kotb filled in for Savannah Guthrie and said the Guthrie family is "our top priority." "Our Today family continues to navigate uncharted territory, balancing the updates on the search for Savannah's mom with all the other stories of the day, like we normally do," co-host Craig Melvin said. "But we know things are far from normal right now, so folks, we are asking for your grace as we continue to do this." Advertisement Advertisement FBI Director Kash Patel planned to travel to Tuscon, Ariz., as he gets updates from his team, the FBI Phoenix office said. The FBI said it has deployed more personnel from its Phoenix office and other FBI field offices to help with the investigation. It also staffed a 24-hour command post with agents to investigate leads and tips. "The FBI has agents, analysts, and professional staff working day and night with our partners at the sheriff's department," the agency said in a statement. Police believe Nancy Guthrie was abducted from her home in Tucson early on Jan. 31. There have been several ransom notes, but there is one that's believed to be authentic. There is a $50,000 reward for her return. NEED TO KNOW The first apparent ransom note believed to be tied to the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie demanded two multi-million dollar payments and set a looming deadline, multiple sources who are familiar with the situation tell PEOPLE The letter, sent to local Arizona television stations, specified two separate sums: $4 million in bitcoin due Thursday, Feb. 5, and if not met, an increased demand of $6 million by Monday, Feb. 9, the sources say Nancy who requires daily medication to survive was last seen at her home in Tucson on the night of Saturday, Jan. 31 The first apparent ransom note believed to be tied to the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, demanded two multi-million dollar payments and set a looming deadline, multiple sources who are familiar with the situation tell PEOPLE. The letter, sent to Arizona television stations KOLD and KGUN, specified two separate sums: $4 million in bitcoin due Thursday, Feb. 5, and if that was not met, an increased demand of $6 million by Monday, Feb. 9, the sources say. Advertisement Advertisement A source confirmed with PEOPLE that as of 2:30 p.m. local time Monday, no payments have been made toward the bitcoin account provided in the note. Although the entire note has not been released, some details have been shared publicly. Heith Janke, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Phoenix division, declined to say what if anything was requested at each deadline, or if there was a threat if the deadlines werent met while speaking at a press conference Thursday. The alleged note did not include proof of life or a way for authorities and Nancy's worried family to communicate with the people who sent it, Janke said. Advertisement Advertisement Also at Thursday's press conference, Janke said a person was arrested after sending a fake ransom note. Nancy who requires daily medication to survive was last seen at her home in Tucson on the night of Saturday, Jan. 31, and authorities believe she was taken against her will. Her family reported her missing around noon the next day. No suspects or persons of interest had been identified in Nancy's kidnapping as of Thursday, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said at the press conference. Nanos has confirmed that blood found on the exterior porch of Nancy's home matches her DNA. Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, Feb. 6, the FBI acknowledged a new message potentially tied to Nancy's kidnapping. "Investigators are actively inspecting the information provided in the message for its authenticity," the statement read. Savannah Guthrie and mother Nancy Guthrie Savannah Guthrie/Instagram In recent days, Savannah has posted multiple videos on Instagram pleading for her mothers safe return. As the Monday deadline approached, she released another video, saying in part, We are at an hour of desperation." "We believe our mom is still out there," she said. "We need your help. Law enforcement is working tirelessly around the clock, trying to bring her home, trying to find her. She was taken and we dont know where. And we need your help." In a previous video shared on Saturday, Feb. 7, Savannah along with her siblings, Annie and Cameron, appeared to speak directly to their mother's kidnappers. Advertisement Advertisement "We received your message and we understand," Savannah said. "We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. The FBI is now offering a $50,000 reward for any information leading to Nancy's recovery or an arrest in the case. Anyone with tips or leads is asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI in addition to the Pima County Sheriffs Department at 520-351-4900. Read the original article on People Editors Note: As part of the Orlando Sentinels 150th birthday, were revisiting some stories from our archives. Todays article involves the biggest scoop in Sentinel history and came from a journalist described infamously as girl reporter. Emily Bavars story suggesting Walt Disney was behind massive land purchases in Central Florida and that he could create a new Disneyland here was initially underplayed by editors. They essentially decided to rerun her story again days later stripped across the top of the front page. Is our mystery industry Disneyland? was the headline with the subhead, Girl reporter convinced by Walt Disney. Bavar, the newspapers magazine editor at the time, had been on a trip to California with other reporters to meet and interview Disney. Her questioning of him and his answers led her to connect Disney to secret, massive land purchases in Orange and Osceola counties. Heres her story as it appeared on Oct. 21, 1965 three days before the Sentinel declared Disney was coming and five days before Florida Gov. Haydon Burns confirmed the news. Orange Countys 30,000-acre mystery industry site may turn out to be an aircraft testing ground, an electronics research center or even a washing machine factory. But I predict nothing so mundane for the mystery site. Advertisement Advertisement I predict it will be an extension of Walt Disneys magic empire of fiction, fantasy and enormous wealth. In sticking out my neck with such indifference to caution, Ill go even farther and say the ultimate plan for the spread of acreage is something that could be hatched only in the fertile Disney imagination; that it will be worth watching and waiting for. Before elaborating lets make it clear I have talked to no one connected with the sale of the property. This includes real estate brokers Nelson Boyce of Florida Ranchlands, Orlando, and Roy Hawkins, Miami, who handled the sale, and Paul L. E. Helliwell, Miami attorney representing the purchaser. I have talked only to Walt Disney who, as I reported Sunday from California, did not say he had bought the property. Advertisement Advertisement But neither did he say he had NOT bought it. In his plush, studio offices in Burbank, Walt Disney did not confirm nor deny purchase of the Central Florida land and he adroitly hedged direct questions concerning it. Whoever bought the land will announce it in time, he observed. Did Disney know who had bought the land? Well, you hear a lot of rumors. As a matter of fact, he had heard that he himself had bought it. When he had had enough of the questioning he courteously explained that announcements of such magnitude must follow established corporate procedure and come from a board of directors. Disney would not be free to confirm the purchase, he said, even if it were a fact. Advertisement Advertisement And I firmly believe it is a fact. Land purchases recently recorded in Osceola County reveal that property adjoining and enlarging the Orange County mystery site has been bought by Anaheim, Calif., money. Anaheim is the site of Disneyland. Original rumors of the purchase included Disney and then spread to other businesses. But as Nov. 15, date of announcement of the purchase draws near when Gov. Burns and officials involved with the sale will be in Orlando to make the joint announcement I am more and more inclined to return to the early guess that Orange and Osceola Counties are slated to have some kind of a second Disneyland. Advertisement Advertisement I repeat: I have talked to no one involved in the sale. I have talked only to Mr. Disney. And I sure have talked to him: at a late morning interview in his office, at lunch where I sat at his right and monopolized as much of the conversation as I could, and after lunch in the brilliant California sunshine when Mr. Disney wanted to know how his blue sky compared to ours. Walt Disney, 63-year-old artistic genius of the Disney empire, may not be an officer of Walt Disney Productions, parent company which produces motion pictures for theatrical and television distribution and operates Disneyland Park. But hes the brains and the talent behind it even though the business is run by his brother, Roy president and chairman of the board. In talking to Walt Disney it, became immediately apparent he had watched Eastern United States with interest and speculation. Advertisement Advertisement Though he underestimated the population of Florida by several million, Disney was familiar with Florida tourist figures, the activity around Cape Kennedy and the scenic Central Florida area centered by Orlando. He mentioned Crystal River and expressed a sentimental interest in Daytona Beach where his parents lived early in their marriage. He offered climate and population reasons why Florida would be unacceptable as a site for an amusement park and then showed how these same reasons could be overcome. Yet, Walt Disneys plans for expanding his empire would not necessarily stop at another Disneyland. Advertisement Advertisement He indicated as much when I asked him if the New York Fair shows were moving to Disneyland, California. Of course, was his quick reply. There is only ONE Disneyland. Then, almost but not quite as an afterthought, he added, as such. Walt Disney likes to needle reporters, particularly Florida reporters, with reasons why their state is too hot, too wet, too unpopulous, too remote and otherwise unsatisfactory for a major attraction. But it is my personal belief that Walt Disney has met and conquered these reasons. I believe the imagination of the canny artist who rode to fame and fortune on an animated mouse named Mickey is capable of building anything from a park to an entire city in a Central Florida pasture. Mr. Disneys brand of talent and promotion is not necessarily limited to another Disneyland. Advertisement Advertisement Or, as he put it himself, as such. More stories and features from the Orlando Sentinels 150 years of covering Central Florida can be found at OrlandoSentinel.com/150. Sign up for our free history newsletter at OrlandoSentinel.com/newsletters NEED TO KNOW Authorities are sending personnel to monitor the home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie who is being held for ransom The Pima County Sheriffs Department said it will "maintain a presence at Nancy Guthries residence for security purposes going forward" There are currently no suspects or persons of interest in the investigation into Nancys disappearance, the department said earlier on Sunday, Feb. 8 Authorities are sending personnel to monitor the home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie who is being held for ransom. A spokesperson for the Pima County Sheriffs Department (PCSD) in Arizona confirmed to PEOPLE on Sunday, Feb. 8, that at the request of the Guthrie family, the department will "maintain a presence at Nancy Guthries residence for security purposes going forward." Advertisement Advertisement "Members of the media and the public are reminded that all traffic laws and private property laws must be followed. No trespassing is allowed on Nancy Guthries property," the spokesperson added. The sheriff's department will replace private security guards who were previously hired to monitor Nancy's Tucson, Ariz., home. Annie Guthrie, Savannah Guthrie and Camron Guthrie in a video addressing the alleged ransom note. Savannah Guthrie/Instagram The update comes after law enforcement officials were seen searching the home belonging to Nancy's daughter Annie Guthrie and her husband, Tommaso Cioni, late in the evening on Saturday, Feb. 7 just hours after Annie, alongside siblings Savannah and Camron Guthrie, shared a new video message for their moms kidnappers. Annie's property is located approximately four miles from Nancy's longtime home in Tucson, where she was taken in the middle of the night on Jan. 31, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Also on Sunday, authorities including PCSD deputies and vehicles were seen at Nancys home. Officials used a pole to probe a manhole located on the property, behind the house, according to drone-captured images shared by Fox News Sarah Rumpf-Whitten on X. There are currently no suspects or persons of interest in the investigation into Nancys disappearance, the PCSD said in an update shared earlier on Sunday. The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing, the department wrote. Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. No scheduled press briefings." Nancy Guthrie. Savannah Guthrie/Instagram Nancy's family initially reported her missing on Sunday, Feb. 1, when she did not attend church. Shortly after, law enforcement launched an investigation into her disappearance, saying they believe she was taken against her will, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said at a press conference on Feb. 3. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Nancy was last seen in the evening of Jan. 31 when her family dropped her off at her house after she had dinner with Annie and Cioni at their home, Nanos previously told The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement A trail of blood was seen on the front steps of Nancy's home that authorities confirmed is hers. Remnants of a Ring camera had also been removed from the front door area, PEOPLE confirmed. Authorities continue to investigate an alleged ransom note that was sent to the media. FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke said the notes sender set a deadline of 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5. A second deadline was then set for Monday, Feb. 9. On Friday, Feb. 6, the FBI acknowledged a new message potentially tied to Nancy's disappearance. "The FBI and Pima County Sheriffs Department are aware of a new message regarding Nancy Guthrie," the PCSD said in a statement to PEOPLE. "Investigators are actively inspecting the information provided in the message for its authenticity." The FBI has urged anyone with tips or leads to call 1-800-CALL-FBI in addition to the Pima County Sheriffs Office at 520-351-4900. Read the original article on People Just as TV history is strewn with a frankly alarming number of overlooked sitcoms (like Jennifer Lawrence's short-lived sitcom "The Bill Engvall Show"), so, too, is it littered with little-known Western series. Have you, for instance, heard of Steven Spielberg's star-studded Western miniseries "Into the West" (which is impossible to watch today)? How about "Nichols," the 1970s Western series that starred Margot Kidder? Didn't think so. Well, now you can add one more to that list with "True Women," a 1997 CBS show that featured a young Angelina Jolie in her TV debut. "True Women" was based on Janice Woods Windle's 1993 novel of the same name, which, according to the author, was part of a trilogy of books that told "the vivid stories of the women in [her] family" that had been "passed down mother to daughter, grandmother to granddaughter, aunt to niece, and even father to daughter, for six generations." Director Karen Arthur brought those stories to the small screen in a show that essentially told a story that spanned five decades across just two long episodes. The tales of Windle's ancestors play out in the tumultuous years between the post-Texas Revolution era through the Civil War and up to the emergence of the women's suffrage movement. The show focuses on three women Sarah Ashby McClure (Dana Delany), Euphemia Ashby King (Annabeth Gish), and Georgia Lawshe Woods (Jolie) and follows them through all manner of hardship, from violence at the hands of native tribes to the loss of husbands. And while this 19th century story of female strength and turmoil earned an Emmy nomination for its musical score, it otherwise went mostly overlooked. Today, it remains an obscure footnote in TV history but thankfully hasn't become lost media just yet. Still, finding "True Women" isn't easy. Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The 10 Worst Clint Eastwood Movies Ranked True Women is a sweeping Western tale of female endurance and it's hard to find Angelina Jolie's Georgia Lawshe Woods is seen in closeup as she looks up while laying on the ground in True Women - CBS Long before Taylor Sheridan was telling multi-generation Western tales with his ever-expanding Dutton family tree, Janice Woods Windle and Christopher Lofton were doing the same with just a single miniseries that originally aired over two nights in May 1997. For a little-known miniseries that was essentially a TV movie split into two parts, "True Women" certainly boasts some outstanding performances, and Angelina Jolie was no exception. As Georgia Lawshe Woods, she does a fantastic job of rendering the pioneer woman's adult life, which, like her contemporaries, was marked by both incredible hardship and remarkable endurance. The same year "True Women" aired on CBS, Jolie also appeared in the TV biopic "George Wallace" before starring in another small-screen biopic with "Gia" in 1998. After that, the actor pretty much left television behind as her film career took off, returning only for the 2010 special "Kung Fu Panda Holiday." That last entry notwithstanding, Jolie actually has a fairly solid, if lean, TV resume, delivering great performances across all of her small screen projects to date and earning particular praise for her portrayal of Gia Carangi in the 1998 biopic. "True Women," by contrast, didn't really cause enough of a stir to garner the young actor much in terms of praise and has remained overlooked ever since. In fact, trying to find the Western miniseries is pretty tough at least on any of the well-known streaming platforms. It is streaming on a free streaming service called Mometu, and some YouTube digging might even turn up the full movie, who knows ... Otherwise, you can't even rent "True Women" from any of the usual places, which is yet another reminder of why physical media matters. Advertisement Advertisement If you're looking for the easiest way to keep up with all the major movie and TV news, why not sign up to our free newsletter? You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on SlashFilm. Bob Schieffer, the legendary CBS correspondent and journalist who has covered many of Americas most important moments since the 1960s, was just 28 when he embarked to report on the Vietnam War for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Schieffer, a Fort Worth native and a TCU grad, was sent to talk to young servicemen and relay messages to their families back in Texas. Star-Telegram photographer Harry Cabluck sent Schieffer to Vietnam with a 35mm Nikon film camera. He arrived in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in December 1965, and spent four months talking to and photographing soldiers some barely older than 20. Advertisement Advertisement When Schieffer returned to the United States in 1966, he went on to become an anchor at Channel 5, and later a CBS correspondent and the moderator of Face the Nation. Now, a collection of the photos that Schieffer took in Vietnam are on display for the first time at UT Arlington, in a special collection called Our Man In Vietnam, in addition to paintings that Schieffer created based on photographs he took of Texas soldiers serving in the war. On Feb. 7, Schieffer was joined by friends and family, and one of the veterans he photographed, to celebrate the opening of the exhibit. He spoke to the crowd about his long career and what he hopes others can gain from seeing his work. Tonight, Im going to give myself the same advice that I would give when people would ask me, Whats the secret to moderating a presidential debate? Schieffer said. Dont forget that its not about you. Its about them. Advertisement Advertisement He was referring to the soldiers that he originally photographed during his time in Vietnam, then painted decades later. During his time in Vietnam, Schieffer located 235 soldiers deployed from Texas, and interviewed dozens of them for the Star-Telegram. Ive covered a lot of stories, but I never got the response that I got when I would ask kids, Hi, Im Bob Schieffer from the Star-Telegram, and your mother asked me to find out how you were doing, Schieffer said. I remember kids that would absolutely break into sobbing tears. They were lonesome. They were in a place that many of them had never heard of... Ill never forget the looks on their faces when they saw me. Schieffer said that his time in Vietnam for the Star-Telegram altered the course of his career. I cant think of any particular organization that I owe more to than the Star-Telegram, Schieffer told the crowd. Advertisement Advertisement After his remarks, Schieffer toured the exhibit and spoke to attendees along the way. Marine Cpl. Joe Beaver Jr., of Arlington, was in attendance Saturday night. He was one of the servicemen photographed and painted. Beaver served for eight years in the Marines, and spent four years in Vietnam. He was wounded three times, he told reporters, and said how lucky he was to make it out of the war alive. This is about Bob Schieffer, not me, Beaver said. I just happened to be one that got shot all the time. As Beaver reminisced about the war, surrounded by his family, he spoke of those who never came home. Advertisement Advertisement I am the luckiest person in the world to come out of that country, Beaver said. Sara Pezzoni, the archivist at UT Arlington Libraries Special Collections department, was a major force behind the exhibition. Schieffer reached out to Pezzoni in March 2025, she said, asking about photos he had taken in Vietnam. UTA also stores the Star-Telegrams photo archives. Pezzoni knew that UT Arlington didnt have the photos he was talking about but it turned out that Schieffer had, after all, held on to some of his notes and negatives. Pezzoni visited Schieffer at his home in Washington, D.C., and discovered a trove of photographs, notes and letters that Star-Telegram readers had sent asking about their sons who were fighting in the war. Advertisement Advertisement After a months-long search, Pezzoni and her team tracked down family members for all four of the soldiers Schieffer painted. Three of those families were present Saturday night. The exhibition represents what Pezzoni and Schieffer both said is a top-of-mind goal preserving American history for future generations. This exhibit has several intentions, Pezzoni told the crowd. It serves as a reflection of Bobs career and how his time in Vietnam shaped who he became and is today, it celebrates Bobs legacy of honoring service members and their families, and it brings more awareness to the history of the Vietnam War and its many complex layers. The free exhibit of Schieffers photos, titled Our Man in Vietnam, will be held in the University of Texas at Arlington Libraries Special Collections area at 702 Planetarium Place. Visit libraries.uta.edu/schieffer for more details. The exhibit is on display until April 4. ABOARD BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY (AP) Aboard the Battleship New Jersey, surrounded by friends, family and the ships important legacy, John Johnny Q Quinesso Sr. marked a milestone: his 100th birthday. The World War II Navy veteran and longtime volunteer was honored last week with a special luncheon and recognition ceremony on the nations most decorated battleship. The celebration was Thursday; his actual birthday was Jan. 24. For Quinesso, a lifelong South Jersey resident, the celebration was not just about longevity it is about service that has never stopped. Advertisement Advertisement Apart from serving three years in the South Pacific as a Radioman 2nd Class, the WWII veteran has spent more than two decades volunteering at the Battleship New Jersey Museum, sharing his experiences and educating students and visitors from around the world. I call the Battleship New Jersey my second home, Quinesso said. Ive been a tour guide here for over 20 years. Its one of the most wonderful things Ive ever done in my life. For Quinesso, teaching visitors about the Battleship New Jersey is about more than history its about understanding the cost of freedom. To let them know that without the battleship, we may not be able to start building our freedom today, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Quinesso joined the Navy straight out of high school in 1943, at 19 years old. Trained as a radio operator, he served aboard the LSM-302, a medium landing ship that delivered troops, tanks and supplies to beaches across the Pacific. His service took him to Wake Island, Guam, Okinawa and Saipan during some of the wars most intense fighting. One moment, however, stands above all others. Off the coast of Guam, the crew at that point was preparing for a potentially devastating invasion of Japan with ships on the ocean as far as he could see. One night, while standing the midnight watch on the radio, Quinesso received a transmission that would change the world. The message read, The Japanese had surrendered. The war is over, he recalled. I ran right down to the captain and banged on his door. Quinesso said after that all hell broke loose on the ship, with the crew crying and hugging each other. Advertisement Advertisement That was my most glorious moment. Ill never forget it it feels like yesterday. After returning home, Quinesso built a 43-year career as an IRS agent. But when the Battleship New Jersey reopened as a museum in 2001, he found a new calling: educating future generations about sacrifice, service and history. Marshall Spevak, CEO of the Battleship New Jersey Museum, said Quinessos presence carries a special weight as time pushes the history of WWII further into the past. Theres still a certain reverence when you talk to a World War II veteran, he said. There will only be a few more years where we have World War II vets in this world. Thats why its so important that we continue to tell their stories so their legacy lives on. Advertisement Advertisement At 100, Quinesso remains sharp, warm and quick with humor. He often tells students that service helped shape his life. I went in as a young boy and came out a grown-up young man, Quinesso said. Thats what service did for me. During last weeks ceremony, Quinesso received New Jerseys the Distinguished Service Medal, the states highest military award. For Quinesso, the recognition is meaningful but being on the ship, telling stories and connecting with people remains the best reward. RAMALLAH/CAIRO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Several Arab and Islamic countries on Monday condemned Israel for its recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements. In a brief press statement, Palestinian Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh urged the Arab League Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the United Nations Security Council to hold emergency meetings to discuss what he described as "dangerous decisions" by the Israeli government. He stressed the need for a unified international stance to condemn the measures and demand their immediate reversal. Meanwhile, the foreign ministers of eight Arab and Muslim countries condemned in the strongest terms the "illegal" Israeli decisions and measures aimed at entrenching settlement activity. In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reaffirmed that Israel has no sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territory. They warned against the continued "expansionist Israeli policies" and illegal measures pursued by the Israeli government in the occupied West Bank, voicing "absolute rejection of these illegal actions." The ministers said the Israeli measures constitute a blatant violation of international law and undermine the two-state solution, adding that such actions also undermine the ongoing efforts for peace and stability in the region. The statement urged the international community to fulfill its legal and moral responsibilities and to compel Israel to halt its dangerous escalation in the occupied West Bank. On Sunday, Israel's security cabinet approved several decisions aimed at altering the legal and civil status of the West Bank and strengthening Israeli control over the territory. Among the controversial measures approved, the cabinet decided to repeal a law banning land sales to Jews, remove the requirement for special transaction permits, and revive a state land acquisition committee that had been inactive for about two decades. Israel captured the West Bank and East Jerusalem in the 1967 Middle East War. The settlements it has built there and its ongoing military occupation are widely regarded as illegal under international law. Palestinian officials have repeatedly warned that measures expanding settlements and extending Israeli civilian authority in the West Bank undermine prospects for establishing an independent Palestinian state. It started around midnight off the sparsely charted reefs of north-east Sudan. My wife, Irenka, shook me awake and hissed, Theres a boat tailing us. By the time I reached the deck, it was already alongside. A battered, unmarked skiff with several men on board, one enthusiastically waving a semi-automatic rifle. He shouted that they were coastguards and wanted us to stop. It was the least convincing display of maritime authority I ever saw. No uniforms. No flag. No radio call. Just dirty T-shirts and guns. Along with our three children (our eldest, Rowan, and two boys, Darroch and Yewan), we had been sailing around the world on our 53-foot yacht for eight years, living aboard full-time. By the time we reached the Red Sea, Rowan had returned to the UK to finish her education, so only the boys aged 15 and 13 were on board. Advertisement Advertisement We had crossed oceans, home-schooled along the way, and learnt to plan passages conservatively. The Red Sea was the stretch we had worried about most. It was the final obstacle between us and the Mediterranean, where our journey began in 2017, and a route many private yachts now avoid entirely. Going the long way round, via the Cape of Good Hope, would have added thousands of miles and another season at sea. So we prepared carefully, waited for a narrow window, and went. Move fast. Stay low. Do not stop We had already been flagged as severe risk by United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations. Too slow. Too low in the water. No guards, no weapons, no razor wire. No insurer will cover private yachts in the Red Sea. Even commercial ships that can afford armed protection often reroute thousands of miles round the Cape of Good Hope to avoid this stretch altogether. The advice for yachts is blunt. Move fast. Stay low. Do not stop. Sail at night if you can. There is no real playbook beyond a whisper network. Ours came via a closed WhatsApp group of Red Sea-bound boats swapping real-time information and contacts. We also travelled with another family boat, Best Life from the US. Not because it makes you safe, but because it means you are not alone. Skipper Ben aboard Best Life, the Woods buddy boat, pictured off Djibouti That night, the skiff tried to peel us off from our two-boat convoy. We refused to stop. It disappeared, then reappeared ahead, trying to cut us off. Then their outboard stalled. We watched them yanking the pull cord as we closed the distance. Advertisement Advertisement That was our chance. Full throttle. Lights off. We slipped past in the dark while they were still fighting their engine. Not textbook seamanship. A badly charted reef zone at night with no navigation lights and a GPS signal that could not be fully trusted in conflict zones. But still better than waiting to find out what coastguard meant in this context. By dawn, the Sudanese coast had slipped behind us. The adrenaline drained away and exhaustion moved in. We grabbed a few hours rest at anchor on the Egyptian border, technically disputed and technically unauthorised. The two sides of the Red Sea Most holidaymakers never see this side of the Red Sea. Marinas are few and eye-wateringly expensive, clearance rules are rigid, and safe legal places to stop are scarce. So cruisers improvise. They run at night. They anchor where they should not. They travel with buddy boats. They swap information quietly. They buy fuel from men in skiffs after dark. Advertisement Advertisement It was a side we would become very well acquainted with. But first we had to get off the border. We raised anchor in the early evening and it would not come up. Not jammed. Not reluctant. Completely immovable. We tried every hard-won trick we knew, even using a dinghy as a makeshift stern thruster. Nothing worked. So Darroch and I slid over the side. Dusk is prime time for sharks, and we were uncomfortably aware of recent incidents along Egypts Red Sea coast. We needed the fix to be quick. It was not. A shark at the side of the Woods boat off the coast of Egypt The chain had pretzeled itself around rocks and a coral head 15m (49ft) down, right on the edge of our free-diving comfort zone. Darry and I took turns diving, picking and prising at the mess while Yewan stood at the bow, hauling in chain in short bursts. He relayed instructions back to Irenka at the helm, easing the boat ahead or astern by inches as we worked it loose below. Exhausting. Slow. Eventually, Best Life came to the rescue. Skipper Ben rolled in with scuba gear and got straight to work, but even he was on the limit. He used every last breath to finish the job, surfacing effectively empty and needing to be hauled into the dinghy before he slipped back under. Advertisement Advertisement With the chain clear, we could finally breathe again. In Bens case, quite literally. We watched the sun sink, knowing that just beyond the horizon sat Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina. Secure. Polished. A floating safe haven designed for yachts whose price tags could buy a decent chunk of Sussex. Not a place for us. Despite the popular image of ocean sailors as millionaires afloat, we were on a boat held together by compromises, repairs and a monthly budget that felt like a hostage negotiation. That said, thinking back to the Sudanese family we had met days earlier, refugees from Khartoum but still offering us hospitality, it was uncomfortably clear how wealthy we really were. Irenka at a vegetable market in Sudan The home straight We limped north with a raw water pump leak that went from annoying to a high-pressure saltwater fountain, coating the engine in crunchy white crystals. Fuel came quietly, through the whisper network, after dark. In El Quseir, a skiff passed up diesel in battered jerry cans. We did it ourselves by torchlight. The agreed price jumped on delivery. We smiled and paid. Then came the Gulf of Suez. Traffic. Oil infrastructure. Illegal fishing boats with AIS and lights off. Service vessels treating the rules of the road as optional. Advertisement Advertisement At one point a service boat came straight at us, head-on, on the wrong side of the traffic separation scheme. I made a nervous VHF call. He replied gruffly, then veered into the central separation zone. It was the busiest and sketchiest stretch of our entire journey. A world away from Sharm El-Sheikh, less than 40 miles off our starboard bow, where the biggest concern was whether the sun loungers were aligned properly. Standing beside a forgotten tank on the island of Socotra off the Yemeni coast When we finally clawed into El Tor in a hard northerly, we discovered it offered nothing by way of hospitality. Or provisions. Or even basic human decency. We were not allowed ashore. No groceries. No drinking water. Just the wind howling down the Gulf of Suez and the grind of an enforced anchor watch. We briefly considered scrubbing the hull for extra speed until a grey reef shark decided to take up residence beneath us. It patrolled daily, slow and methodical. Oddly, we grew fond of the silent company. Advertisement Advertisement By the time we reached the canal, we were filthy, sunburnt, sleep-deprived and held together with hose clamps, beer-can engineering and sheer bloody-mindedness. Looking back, that stretch of the Red Sea seems to distil our entire circumnavigation. Stunning, exhilarating and exasperating, often all at once. At times absurd. At times genuinely dangerous. The Woods sailed around the world on their 53-foot yacht for eight years Only later did we understand how close it had been. In early May 2025, just two weeks after we passed, RSF drone attacks struck Port Sudan. What we had been sailing past was not scenery. It was actually a front line. Some people will inevitably question the wisdom of taking our children through waters like this. We asked ourselves the same questions at the time and again afterwards. Should we have gone the long way round, via the Cape of Good Hope? With hindsight, there were moments when that felt tempting. But there are no entirely safe routes at sea, only different kinds of risk. We planned carefully, travelled conservatively, and adapted constantly, with the children fully involved rather than passive passengers. It was challenging, at times deeply uncomfortable. But there is no adventure without friction. Advertisement Advertisement Would I recommend it lightly? No. Would I pretend it was easy? Absolutely not. But was it worth it? Yes. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. The Brief A group of North Texas Buddhist monks is set to conclude a more than 2,000-mile "Walk for Peace" in Washington, D.C., next week. They began their journey in Fort Worth in October, aiming to inspire hope and encourage people to "slow down" amidst global suffering. While the physical walk ends in the capital, the monks hope the message of peace continues to influence the millions who followed their journey online. FORT WORTH, Texas - Buddhist monks from North Texas are finishing up their 2,000-mile Walk for Peace. Walk for Peace What we know The monks began their march in Fort Worth back in October. Theyll complete it next week in Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Their mission has been simple. Theyve walked more than 2,000 miles all in the name of peace. Theyre hoping to help people. Big picture view As simple as the mission is, it has moved millions of people. People have followed the monks journey online. Some have even joined them on city streets, desperate to witness and be a part of something so pure. What they're saying The monks said theyve seen so much suffering that they thought a walk might encourage people to slow down and prompt peace. "I felt like this is where I needed to be. I felt like this is what the world needed," said Venerable Bhante Pannakara. "I believe weve brought a lot of joy and hope to the people." Advertisement Advertisement They were taken aback by the impact of their journey. "I have encountered many people who came to me and said you saved my life during this walk. And that shocked me because we simply just walked," Pannakara said. What's next The group chose Washington, D.C. as their end destination because its the nations capital. But they pray it will only end literally and not figuratively. "I truly hope after this walk it wont end in Washington D.C. We truly hope people will continue this walk in their life," Pannakara said. The Source FOX's Sydney Persing gathered information for this story by interviewing Venerable Bhante Pannakara just before the final leg of his journey. What started with a Sonic sundae and a heartfelt card turned into a brutal birthday blowup. A 29-year-old stay-at-home wife posted to Reddit's AITA forum asking if she was in the wrong for giving her 37-year-old husband of eight years a low-key celebrationafter he ignored every question about his birthday plans for months. Instead of gratitude, he gave her a guilt trip. "He threw in my face: You had 365 days to hustle some cash for a gift,'" she wrote, explaining that she doesn't have her own income and has no control over their household finances. "I homeschool the kids, pitch in on his business with marketing and client stuff, but no paycheck for me. He didn't want me working anyway." Don't Miss: The ChatGPT of Marketing' Just Opened a $0.85/Share Round 10,000+ Investors Are Already In Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro Gave Up Med School, Gets Called Lazy The wife said she left medical school in her early 20s because it was "messing up their marriage" while she parented solo and her husband ran his business around the clock. Their finances have spiraled into debt, and she says she barely knows what's going on with the bills. Advertisement Advertisement Still, after she cleaned the house and tried to braid their son's hair on his birthday, she handed her husband a long, emotional card and his favorite ice cream sundae. He immediately ate the dessertbut accused her of not trying hard enough. "He goes off on how I'm lazy and don't try hard enough," she wrote. "Dropping hundreds on presents when we're buried in debt? That's nuts to me." Trending: Motley Fool's analysts have built a new lineup of passive ETFs explore which "Foolish" strategy fits your investment goals. The Birthday Gift Wasn't The ProblemHe Was Commenters were quick to zero in not on the sundaebut on the emotional and financial control baked into the relationship. Advertisement Advertisement "The correct answer to you had 365 days to hustle cash for a gift' is you had 365 days to learn to pay bills,'" one user wrote. "You've given up everything for this marriage. He's given up nothing." Others flagged the "old school" power dynamic for what it was: not traditional, but suffocating. "He wanted to cage an ambitious woman and turn her into a trad wife," one commenter said. "Instead of looking for a woman who wanted to be a trad wife." "Go to PA school. Be independent," another added. "You don't have to live like this." Advertisement Advertisement Some offered dry solutions with a bitter edge: "If you set aside $1.50/day you'll have enough to serve him with divorce papers on his next birthday." See Also: This ETF issuer isn't chasing the index it's building tools for income, leverage, and conviction Financial Control Isn't A QuirkIt's A Red Flag What lit the comment section wasn't the missing cakeit was the financial inequality that defined the entire situation. The wife handles homeschooling, unpaid labor for his business, and still got hit with accusations of laziness because she couldn't produce a gift. Controlling finances, restricting work opportunities, and weaponizing money around holidays are all classic symptoms of financial abuse, a less visible but deeply damaging form of relationship control. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, it's present in 99% of abusive relationships, and often the first tactic used to isolate and manipulate a partner. Advertisement Advertisement For those stuck in similar dynamics, talking to a financial advisoror even a legal advocatecan help clarify exit strategies, budgeting options, or access to resources. A birthday sundae doesn't require a 365-day hustle. But rebuilding financial independence after years of control? That's worth starting today. Read Next: Professional traders demand transparency see why Kraken Pro has become one of crypto's most trusted advanced trading platforms. Image: Imagn Up Next: Transform your trading with Benzinga Edge's one-of-a-kind market trade ideas and tools. Click now to access unique insights that can set you ahead in today's competitive market. Advertisement Advertisement Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga: This article Husband Said Wife Had '365 Days To Hustle' Gift Money While Controlling Every Dollar, Then Mocks Ice Cream Sundae And Birthday Card She Got Him originally appeared on Benzinga.com 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Videos of cruise guests crossing the Drake Passage seem to go viral every few months: viewers may have seen ships rocking back and forth, massive waves crashing over windows and passengers struggling to hang onto their balance. Its not always like that, though. I always tell people, first off, social media makes the Drake Passage look a lot worse than it is, Tamatha Frederick, Senior Japan, South America, and Polar Specialist at Audley Travel, told USA TODAY. If a cruise to Antarctica is on a travelers bucket list, theyll likely need to cross the notoriously treacherous waterway first. Heres what to know about sailing the Drake Passage. What is the Drake Passage? The Drake Passage stretches roughly 500 miles between South Americas southern tip and the northern tip of the West Antarctic Peninsula, according to the U.K.s National Oceanography Centre. The waterway links the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and is the narrowest stretch of water in the Southern Ocean, according to its website. Advertisement Advertisement Frederick said its famous because of the convergence of these oceans and the waves that are associated with it. Named for English explorer and privateer Sir Francis Drake, the area is unpredictable and passengers could experience a smooth Drake Lake or a rough Drake Shake. Frederick said waves are often between 10 and 14 feet though they can range from six-and-a-half to 43 feet, according to expedition cruise operator Swan Hellenic. When I took an Antarctica voyage with Aurora Expeditions in 2023, conditions on the way from Ushuaia, Argentina, fell somewhere between, with waves reaching about 13 feet. Do all Antarctica cruises go through the Drake Passage? Most of the ones sailing from South America do. Some cruise operators, such as National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and Silversea Cruises, offer fly-cruise itineraries that allow guests to bypass the crossing. And then there are cruises that go to the Falklands and South Georgia, added Frederick. And those are longer itineraries that include the Antarctic Peninsula, and they kind of circumnavigate the Drake Passage one way, but then inevitably you're going to have to have to go through it the other way. Advertisement Advertisement Those alternate itineraries also tend to be more expensive than those that sail through the Drake. It's not for everyone: 3 things to know about Antarctica expedition cruises Tourists on a Zodiac Milpro boat of the cruise ship L'Austral visit the Gerlache Strait, which separates the Palmer Archipelago from the Antarctic Peninsula, on January 15, 2024. How long does it take to cross the Drake Passage? The waterway takes about two days to sail in each direction. How to prepare for the Drake Passage If travelers are concerned about crossing the Drake, there are some steps they can take to prepare. Before the cruise, Frederick recommended consulting your doctor about which seasickness medications to bring on board, just in case. Many are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription (click here for USA TODAYs guide to navigating seasickness on a cruise). Advertisement Advertisement So I would say, definitely bring something, especially if you are prone to seasickness, she said. Cruise ships typically have a supply of medication on board, as well, and medical staff who can advise guests as needed. Both large, more traditional cruise ships and smaller expedition ships visit Antarctica. While Frederick said passengers may notice the movement less on a bigger ship and face a lower risk of motion sickness, expedition ships are built for those conditions. ... A lot of these bigger cruises, they go all over the world, the staff obviously is experienced, but the expedition teams that go down there that specialize just in polar expeditions are truly the experts in how to navigate to the Drake Passage, because they do it all the time. Another important distinction: Ships carrying more than 500 passengers cannot take them on land, according to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. That means bigger ships offer only scenic cruising. A cruise ship sails at the Gerlache Strait, which separates the Palmer Archipelago from the Antarctic Peninsula, in Antarctica on January 17, 2024. Frederick noted that expedition cruises feature nightly briefings, including before entering the Drake Passage. The crew will let you know how big the waves are looking (and) when they would advise to take your medication so you have a better understanding of what it's going to be like, she said. Cruise operators also generally try to cross the roughest waters while guests are sleeping. Advertisement Advertisement Passengers may notice seasickness bags placed around the ship, just in case, and some programming, such as lectures, could be pared back if the waves get especially choppy. The gym, elevator, and outside decks may close temporarily, as well though dining venues typically stay open, according to Frederick. Depending on the weather, cruise companies may even make schedule changes. That happened to me where there was a storm and some ships went out and there were issues with those, and some ships came back because they knew it was going to be better the next day, she said. So they'll modify it itinerary- wise, or delay it if they need to, and then try to make up the time later on during the itinerary. Frederick, who is prone to seasickness herself, said she still recommends sailing across rather than flying even if it comes with short-term discomfort. I do think that doing the Drake is not only is it a rite of passage, but it also is a really good opportunity for people to get to know each other better, especially if you're on the smaller expedition cruise, she said. You get a lot of safety briefings on the way down, and lectures and learn a lot You kind of bond with the rest of your folks on board, whether it's through sickness or not. Advertisement Advertisement Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The part of Antarctica cruises that most travelers fear Editor's note: This story was originally published in March 2025. On any given Friday, La Placita in the neighborhood of Santurce in San Juan, Puerto Rico is packed with partygoers drinking on the street shoulder-to-shoulder as they hop from one bar to another. Its a cacophony of music and smells with numerous restaurants interspersed in what is otherwise a marketplace during the day. At a glance, its emblematic of Puerto Rican culture a community enjoying music, food and dancing under the stars. But when you look closer, you can hear the music is often a track taken from the American Top 40, the drinks are imported beer, and the food is some sort of Puerto Rican treat with an American twist. Your ears perk up when you hear Spanish because almost everyone around you is a tourist. Advertisement Advertisement Not all tourists are created equal: How you can be one of the good ones La Placita, which used to be a local haven in a tourist area, has been through a transformation. Its not a surprise to locals, and it shouldnt shock travelers. In 2024, the island welcomed more than 6.6 million air passengers, a record-breaking 8% increase from the year before, according to Discover Puerto Rico. The islands hospitality sector grew by 5%, all before's Bad Bunny's 2025 concert residency. Many places around the world are grappling with the effects of overtourism. European countries have added tourist fees to popular spots, some cruise lines are opting for smaller ports of call, and even Hawaiians have called for limits on visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Were not opposed to tourism we want it. But it has to be responsible, Nilda Garcia, president of the ecological organization Coalicion Pro Corredor Ecologico del Noreste, told USA TODAY. Tourisms economic impact on Puerto Rico is undeniable. The sector contributed $7.6 billion to the islands GDP in 2024, representing 6.6% of the total economy. Comparatively, tourism represented about 17% of Hawaiis economy in 2023. But Puerto Ricos rapid growth has also raised concerns about sustainability, environmental degradation and cultural erosion. With an influx of visitors many of whom still concentrate in the San Juan metro area Puerto Rico is at a crossroads: How does it sustain this growth while preserving its rich heritage and fragile ecosystems? Travel beyond San Juan For years, Puerto Ricos tourism marketing focused heavily on its capital. Locals still remember the Puerto Rico Lo hace mejor! campaign inviting them to be welcoming of foreigners. Now there is a conscious effort to maintain the same hospitality while shifting from crowded areas. Discover Puerto Rico, the islands destination marketing organization, launched initiatives to educate visitors about lesser-known regions, aiming to decentralize tourism from popular areas like Old San Juan and El Yunque. Advertisement Advertisement The latest campaign encourages travelers to go beyond the beaches and engage with Puerto Rican culture, whether through gastronomy in Cayey, heritage tourism in Ponce, or adventure travel in the central mountains. The strategy is working. Though 66% of travelers stay in the metro urban area, according to Discover Puerto Rico, 39% of visitors now explore the islands east coast, 29% venture south and another 29% head west. This is about changing perceptions, Davelyn Tardi, public relations director for Discover Puerto Rico, told USA TODAY. We are not an all-inclusive Caribbean resort destination. We have history, culture, art and traditions that we want visitors to experience firsthand. Efforts to support small businesses and community tourism have also been crucial. Through town halls and roundtable discussions, Discover Puerto Rico said it has provided training on digital marketing, social media and visitor engagement to help local businesses adapt to the rising number of tourists. In Loiza, for example, Sheila Osorio, founder of Taller de Bomba NZambi a bomba dance school got social media and translation support and now attracts visitors from around the world. A woman takes photos of a gate with the Puerto Rican flag painted on it, in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Oct. 28, 2024. Tourism's environmental footprint As visitor numbers climb, so do concerns about environmental sustainability. Advertisement Advertisement Ecotourism means more than just being in nature it means respecting it, Garcia said. The northeast corridor, home to lush forests and a nesting ground for the endangered leatherback turtle, has been one of the areas most affected by unregulated tourism. Visitors leaving trash, venturing into restricted areas and using off-road vehicles in protected zones have become a growing problem. We constantly educate visitors about respecting nature, but many still ignore signs and warnings, Garcia said. Weve seen ATVs tearing through sand dunes and even horse tracks over turtle nests. Its heartbreaking. Tourists walk in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, October 28, 2024. To combat this, community organizations are pushing for stronger regulations on tour operators (local- and foreign-owned alike) and stricter enforcement of environmental protections. Advertisement Advertisement Tourism should not just serve visitors; it should work for the people who live here year-round, Garcia said. Some businesses have already embraced a more responsible approach to ecotourism. Roca Norte Climbing Gym in Vega Baja and Finca Gaia in Dorado have incorporated sustainable tourism models, integrating agrotourism, conservation and cultural immersion experiences. These efforts align with Puerto Rico Tourism Co.s sustainable tourism program, which ensures that businesses meet environmental and ethical standards. People enjoy the beach in the tourist zone of El Combate as Tropical Storm Dorian approaches in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, Aug. 27, 2019. The rising toll on local culture The biggest impact of tourism isnt just waste or pollution its cultural, Arturo Massol Deya, director of community-based organization Casa Pueblo, told USA TODAY. When visitors come without integrating, they create a kind of contamination. While tourism brings economic benefits, it also has a rising cost for locals. In towns like Luquillo and Rincon on opposite sides of the island, where tourism has boomed, housing prices and the cost of living have surged, making it harder for residents to afford homes. Advertisement Advertisement Many tourists dont just visit; they come with the intention of buying property, Massol Deya said. This drives up land prices and displaces locals. The once-affordable food kiosks along the beachfront are now dominated by high-end restaurants catering to tourists, leaving many locals feeling priced out of their own communities. We love welcoming visitors, but we live here year-round, said Massol Deya, whose organization hosts tourists looking to volunteer in local communities and learn from sustainable practices. Its great that businesses are thriving, but when a simple breakfast is suddenly out of our price range, it makes you question who tourism is really serving. This mirrors concerns in Hawaii. More Native Hawaiians now live in the mainland U.S. than on the islands, and a growing number of residents have pushed for regulations on short-term rentals and foreign property buyers to protect local housing markets. Puerto Rico hasnt introduced similar policies. Advertisement Advertisement Don't be that tourist: Here's how to respectfully visit Hawaii, have an authentic trip Whats the future of Puerto Rico travel? Puerto Rico is at a pivotal moment. With 82% of Puerto Ricans supporting tourism as an economic driver, according to Discover Puerto Rico's research, the challenge is ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of culture, affordability or the environment. If we dont regulate tourism, the environment will be damaged, and in the end, everyone loses, Garcia said. Looking ahead, new initiatives aim to further integrate community-based tourism into the islands strategy. A voluntourism model, similar to Hawaiis Malama and the efforts of Casa Pueblo, is a possible step forward where businesses are required to offer community service projects for visitors. A general view of the 12th fairway with the El Yunque National Rainforest beyond during the first round of the Puerto Rico Open presented by seepuertorico.com held at Trump International Golf Club on March 6, 2014 in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. We dont want a tourism of detachment, where people just enjoy the beaches and leave without understanding Puerto Rico, Massol Deya said. Tourism should create long-term relationships with the island, not just a collection of Instagram photos. Advertisement Advertisement Puerto Ricos identity as a tourist destination is evolving with an added boost from local artists with global recognition, like Bad Bunny or Daddy Yankee. Beyond its white-, black- or golden-sand beaches and historic forts, the island has the opportunity to carve out a new role as a model for responsible travel, one where visitors dont just take from the island but give back to it. Said Massol Deya, Responsible tourism isnt just about what you do while youre here but how you continue contributing after you leave. Josh Rivera is USA TODAY's Travel Editor. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Puerto Rico is part of the US, but tourism isn't the same Roaring into combat from seas, lakes or fjords, wartime seaplane operations were spectacular. Seaplanes, in both flying boat and floatplane form, were instrumental in the second world war. As well as spotting and destroying ships, submarines, aircraft and even ground targets, seaplanes saved many lives of friends and foes alike. Here are 10 excellent examples: 10: Beriev MBR-2 Beriev MBR-2 The rugged MBR-2 was by far the most numerous flying boat to serve the Soviet Union, operating from the Arctic to the Pacific. It was designed by 27-year-old Georgy Beriev on his own initiative in 1930, and the all-wood prototype flew for the first time from the Black Sea on 30 April 1932. Advertisement Advertisement By 1937 the MBR-2 was the most numerous maritime aircraft in the USSR and in 1939 the MBR-2 saw its first combat use during the Winter War with Finland. The aircraft acquitted itself well in harsh conditions, flying reconnaissance missions as far north as the Barents Sea and attacking shore installations and shipping in Finland. 10: Beriev MBR-2 Beriev MBR-2 During the war the aircrafts vulnerability to fighters became apparent and it was used more often at night and the aircraft was increasingly used as an air-sea rescue aircraft and occasionally as a transport. The last wartime combat missions by MBR-2s were flown in the Pacific against Japanese shipping. After the war, it flew night raids during the Korean War and continued to serve on ice and fisheries patrol. 9: Martin Mariner Martin Mariner Despite being the second most numerous flying boat ever built, with 1366 produced, just one more example was constructed than the next most numerous, the Beriev MBR-2, the Mariner is nonetheless fairly obscure today - but the PBM was an excellent aircraft that continued to serve well into the Cold War. Advertisement Advertisement The design was tested by a manned quarter-scale model powered by two Chevrolet car engines, christened the Tadpole Clipper before the first full size PBM flew in 1939. Aerodynamic issues saw the initially flat tailplane being given the same dihedral as the inner wing resulting in the aircrafts distinctive inward canted tailfins. 9: Martin Mariner Martin Mariner PBMs sank at least ten U-boats and were widely used in the Pacific, including in the nocturnal interdiction role. For operations at night, the Mariners were painted black and known as Nightmares. Later Mariners featured provision for Jet Assisted Takeoff (JATO) bottles (pictured). These aided short takeoffs in heavy sea conditions. The Mariner remained in frontline service during the Korean War, flying patrols and air sea rescue missions. One PBM was attacked by Chinese MiG-15s while on a radar monitoring sortie during July 1952 but managed to escape. The last PBMs served with the US Coast Guard until 1958. 8: Short Sunderland Short Sunderland The definitive British flying boat of the Second World War, the Sunderland was a military development of the Short Empire, the prewar flying boat airliner produced for Imperial Airways. Its airliner origins resulted in an unusually comfortable military aircraft: the Sunderlands roomy two deck fuselage possessed a kitchen, wardroom, and bunks. Advertisement Advertisement In combat the type proved hugely successful being both long-ranged about 2700 miles - and powerfully armed, it was ultimately credited with sinking 28 U-boats and assisting in the destruction of several others. Its capacious hull proved invaluable. During the evacuation of Crete in May 1941, one example flew out with 82 passengers aboard. 8: Short Sunderland Short Sunderland Most large flying boats were vulnerable to fighters, but the dependable Sunderland was respected by the Germans for its effective defensive armament, earning the nickname of "Flying Porcupine". On one occasion off Norway in April 1940, a single Sunderland was attacked by six Ju 88 heavy fighters; the Short shot down one Ju 88 and drove the others off. The Sunderland proved a long-lived aircraft, remaining in frontline service with New Zealand until 1967 and even longer as an airliner, a converted Sunderland making its final commercial flight from Lord Howe Island to Sydney in 1974. Today, several Sunderlands are preserved, and one survives in apparently airworthy condition, though it hasnt flown since 1996. 7: Vought OS2U Kingfisher Vought OS2U Kingfisher When it entered service in August 1940, the Vought OS2U was the first catapult-launched monoplane to be flown by the US Navy. Designed by Rex Beisel, who also designed the F4U Corsair, the OS2U was the first production aircraft to be constructed using spot welding and featured interchangeable float or wheeled undercarriage. Advertisement Advertisement The Kingfisher was reliable and popular, quickly becoming the standard aircraft operating in the gunnery spotting observation and air sea rescue role from the US Navys capital ships, battleships normally carrying three aircraft, although the powerful new Iowa class battleships featured four OS2Us apiece when they were commissioned. 7: Vought OS2U Kingfisher Vought OS2U Kingfisher Notable operations included the rescue of World War I ace Eddie Rickenbacker and other survivors of a B-17 crash after 24 days at sea in a dinghy in the Pacific. Unable to take off with this many passengers, the Kingfisher pilot taxied 40 miles to a rendezvous with a PT boat with the rescued men sitting on the wings. Many of the 1519 OS2Us constructed were exported to fellow combatants and Australia, Cuba, Chile, Mexico, the UK, USSR and Uruguay all received Kingfishers. One Cuban example survived to be flown in combat as a ground attack machine by Fidel Castros forces during the revolution of 1959. 6: Supermarine Walrus Supermarine Walrus A mere five days after its first flight the prototype Walrus (then called the Seagull V) appeared at an air display at Hendon in north London where test pilot J.F. Mutt Summers astonished the crowd, including the planes designer RJ Mitchell, by performing a loop in the new flying boat. Advertisement Advertisement In service the Walrus proved able to operate from remarkably rough seas as you can see in this photo - and was fully capable of catapult launches from battleships and cruisers. Despite its biplane configuration, the Walrus was the first British military aircraft to combine the features of a retractable undercarriage, a fully enclosed cockpit and a metal fuselage in the same airframe. 6: Supermarine Walrus Supermarine Walrus Initially intended for gunnery spotting for Royal Navy capital ships, the Walrus was used operationally for this purpose only twice and the main tasks carried out by the Walrus from warships was patrolling for submarines and enemy shipping. Walruses received ASV radar as early as March 1941 to assist in this task. However, the majority of the Walruss service was as a land-based air-sea rescue aircraft, ultimately saving around 1000 aircrew during the war. Some were also employed for rescue missions aboard aircraft carriers; the low landing speed of the Walrus meant it could operate from a carrier deck despite not being fitted with an arrestor hook. 5: CANT Z.506 Airone CANT Z.506 Airone The Z.506 started life as a record-breaking commercial aircraft and was developed into the Z.506B military version (pictured). This featured more powerful engines, a raised and enlarged cockpit, and a long ventral gondola that contained the bomb aimer, the bombload, and a defensive gun position at the rear. Advertisement Advertisement Despite its wooden construction, the Airone was noted for its ability to operate in rough seas and was kept busy throughout the Second World War, raiding coastal installations, attacking shipping, and engaging in long-range maritime patrol and reconnaissance. After the Italian armistice in 1943, the aircraft continued in use with both Allied and Axis forces. 5: CANT Z.506 Airone CANT Z.506 Airone A dedicated air-sea rescue version designated the Z.506S (S for Soccorso rescue) was responsible for saving 231 people during 1940-42. Despite being marked with large red cross markings, the rescue Airones were regularly attacked and shot down by British fighters. After the war Z.506s operated in the rescue role until 1959. Despite its many years of service, the Z.506B is probably best known today as the only aircraft to be successfully hijacked by prisoners of war. In July 1942 a Z.506B rescued the crew of a ditched Bristol Beaufort - but then the British airmen overpowered their Italian rescuers and flew the aircraft to Malta. 4: Blohm & Voss Bv 138 Blohm & Voss Bv 138 Nicknamed Der Fliegende Holzschuh The Flying Clog by its crews due to the shape of its hull, the Bv 138 was the primary German maritime patrol flying boat of World War II. Whilst the twin boom Bv 138 wasnt going to win any beauty contests, it was reliable, tough, and well-armed. Advertisement Advertisement Unusually for an aeroplane, the Bv 138s engines were diesel powered. These were highly efficient, conferring great range (2670 miles), which could be augmented further by refuelling at sea and Bv 138s regularly rendezvoused with U-boats to take on diesel fuel. During Operation Wunderland in 1942 a Bv 138 was refuelled by U-255 four times whilst searching for targets. 4: Blohm & Voss Bv 138 Blohm & Voss Bv 138 The Bv 138 was also unusual for an aircraft of its size in that it could be launched by catapult as well as taking off from the water. The Kriegsmarine operated several seaplane tenders which functioned as mobile bases for the aircraft, equipped both with catapults and cranes to hoist aboard aircraft after alighting. Initially utilised as a standard maritime patrol aircraft, the Bv 138 was also employed as an aerial minesweeper. Fitted with a 40ft diameter degaussing ring that was electrically charged by a generator, the Bv 138 flew low over the water and the magnetic field generated by the ring was sufficient to set off magnetic mines. 3: Spitfire floatplane Spitfire floatplane Though the magnificent Spitfire proved itself a problematic carrier fighter as the Seafire, it almost become a superb floatplane fighter. During the Norwegian campaign, the RAF found itself in dire straits due to the lack of suitable airfields for its fighters, and the floatplane fighter concept seemed to offer a useful solution. Floats were fitted to a Spitfire Mk.I but before it even flew, Norway was occupied by Germany. Advertisement Advertisement The converted Spitfires were converted back to regular wheeled undercarriage. But this handy idea refused to go away. Subsequently, the Spitfire floatplane was looked at again when war in the Pacific against Japan kicked off in late 1941, and this time a Mk.V, was converted. 3: Spitfire floatplane Spitfire floatplane By the time three Mk.V had been converted to floatplanes, the plan had changed, and instead of the Pacific, the Spitfires were to operate from discreet island bases in the Aegean. Unfortunately, the Germans stymied the idea by capturing all the appropriate islands. Attention turned to the Pacific again for the final and fastest Spitfire conversion. In 1944, a Spitfire Mark IX (serial MJ892) powered by a Merlin 45 was fitted with floats. The result was spectacular: the machine reached 377mph, making it the fastest floatplane of the war. Sadly, the concept was shelved, and despite becoming the third-fastest floatplane ever built, the waterborne Spitfire was abandoned in late 1945. 2: Kawanishi H8K Kawanishi H8K The Pacific during the Second World War was the largest battlefield in history, yet all but a tiny fraction of it was water. As a direct result the flying boat was of particular value in this realm, and the best flying boat fielded during the conflict was the superb Kawanishi H8K. Advertisement Advertisement The H8K was the most heavily defended and fastest flying boat serving with any of the combatants. Designed under a team led by Shizuo Kikuhara, the H8K featured a deep and slender hull and shoulder wing. The hull initially gave serious trouble, the prototype being prone to severe porpoising, and the spray thrown up by the bow completely inundated the two inner engines. 2: Kawanishi H8K Kawanishi H8K Careful redesign eliminated these issues and the H8Ks hull was the most efficient fitted to a flying boat during the war. Primarily performing the same maritime patrol, reconnaissance and anti-submarine work as contemporary flying boats, the H8K was also expected to operate as a torpedo carrier and bomber. Unlike most other Japanese aircraft, the H8K was a difficult target for Allied flyers. It was fast (for its size), well armoured, and well protected, possessing a highly innovative fire suppression system for its huge fuel tanks. It was also well-armed, bristling with five 20-mm cannon and five 7.7mm machine guns, Type 91 torpedoes or up to 4,409 lb (2,000kg) of bombs or mines. 1: Consolidated PBY Catalina Consolidated PBY Catalina Of the flying boats used for Antisubmarine Warfare in the Second World War, the Catalina was king. With a range of 2500 miles, it could take the fight far out into the Atlantic. Despite only having half the engines of the Sunderland, the Catalina could carry almost the same weapons load and had the advantage of also being able to use torpedoes, something it deployed in anger around Guadalcanal. The first submarine sunk by a Catalina was U-452 which was attacked south of Iceland by the trawler HMS Vascama and an aircraft of the RAFs 209 squadron in August 1941. In a twist of fate, the next U-boat sunk by a Catalina was in a similar location a year later by a US Navy aircraft. 1: Consolidated PBY Catalina Consolidated PBY Catalina As patrol aircraft Catalinas were also responsible for sighting the Bismarck prior to her final battle, Japanese landings in Malaya, and the Japanese fleet prior to the battles of Ceylon and Midway. The Catalina was a submarine-killing monster: sinking a total of 40 submarines, 14 more than the Sunderland and equal second overall with the Avenger. It also had the first air-to-air kill by a US Navy aircraft in the Second World War, the bow gunner of an aircraft evacuating from the Philippines shooting down a Mitsubishi Zero on 10 December 1941. Follow Joe Coles on Substack, Twitter X or Blue Sky. His superb Hush-Kit Book of Warplanes is available here. If you enjoyed this story, please click the Follow button above to see more like it from Autocar Photo Licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en ]]> With seemingly unlimited funding, the Cold War created a wild menagerie of exciting warplanes. Some were extremely exciting and charismatic, some utterly daft or downright evil. Here are 10 Crazy & Ice-cool Cold War Warplanes: 10: Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor Nothing says Cold War aviation madness like the Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor. Mad futuristic appearance? Check. Combination of rocket and jet propulsion? Check. Slightly daft and exciting name? Check again. The Thunderceptor's unusual wing was 'flared' in shape as a solution intended to address the dangerous issue of 'pitch-ups'. Advertisement Advertisement The XF-91 first flew in 1948. It flew faster that the speed of sound in 1951, becoming the first US fighter (albeit experimental) to exceed the speed of sound in level flight. The Thunderceptors rather exciting mixed propulsion was rendered obsolete by improvements in available thrust from turbojet engines. 10: Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor The XF-91 was powered by one General Electric J47-GE-7 turbojet, with 5200 lbf (23 kN) thrust (increasing to 6100 lbf (27 kN) with water injection) and leaping up to 6900 lbf (31 kN) with afterburner, and one Reaction Motors XLR11-RM-9 liquid-fuelled rocket engine of 6,000 lbf (27 kN) using Water-alcohol fuel with liquid oxygen as the oxidiser. Other mixed propulsion fighters included the Avro 720, Saunders-Roe SR.53, and Saunders-Roe SR.177. A rocket could indeed work for additional thrust, but two fuel sources and the hazards and endurance of rocket propulsion meant the better solution was to wait for better pure jet engines, which is what the US Air Force did. 9: Northrop F-20 Tigershark Northrop F-20 Tigershark The F-20 was a souped-up variant of the F-5 light fighter. However, unlike the twin-engined Tiger II and Freedom Fighter, the F-20 was powered by a single engine. It was intended to serve the needs of US client nations that were not cleared to purchase fighters as advanced as the F-16. Advertisement Advertisement The F-20 was slightly inferior to the F-16 in performance terms but would have been easier to maintain and cheaper to operate, though some of the reliability claims for it were perhaps a little exaggerated. Flight trials went extremely well, and the famous Chuck Yeager became an enthusiastic advocate of the type. 9: Northrop F-20 Tigershark Northrop F-20 Tigershark When restrictions on F-16 exports were relaxed the F-20 lost its raison detre. An attempt to provide F-20s for the US aggressor fleet proved unsuccessful perhaps as General Dynamics and some in the F-16 community feared the F-20 reaching production status. In the end, this privately funded fighter fell by the wayside, but did serve to distract attention away from Northrops secretive work on the nascent B-2 stealth bomber. The F404 engine that had powered the F-20 did find gainful employment in the light fighter world, going on to power the Saab Gripen, KAI FA-50 and Tejas Mk 1. 8: Crusader III Crusader III The Crusader III took everything that was good about the Crusader I & II fighters and turned it up to 11. Chin intake, bigger and jutting forward like an attacking sharks mouth to control the airflow as it neared Mach 3 (the maximum tested speed was Mach 2.39). Ventral strakes, so big they had to fold to the sides when the undercarriage was lowered so they wouldnt break off on the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Weapons, why not add three medium-ranged radar-guided Sparrows to the four heat-seeking AIM-9 Sidewinders and four 20mm cannon? Range, speed and maximum altitude were all significantly increased while retaining the legacy Crusaders manoeuvrability; the guns were planned but never fitted. 8: Crusader III Crusader III In the skies of Vietnam, the Super Crusader would have been virtually unbeatable, able to manoeuvre with the Vietnamese Air Forces MiGs while using its speed and acceleration to disengage at will. Despite outflying the competing F4H, the F8U had a few shortcomings that its bullet-like speed couldnt overcome. Both aircraft carried the Sparrow missile, but the Phantom had a second crew member who could devote his time to operating it. Too specialised for the US Navy, the five F8U3s would see out their lives with NASA, who were soon asked to stop using them to intercept Phantoms because it was getting embarrassing. 7: Addax Addax From the late 1970s, the IML Group in New Zealand studied existing combat aircraft to see if they could come up with a better solution. Their concept, the Addax, proved to be exceptionally bold. The Addax-1 was to be powered by two vectored thrust turbofans in the 10,000-Ib thrust class (obvious contenders would have included the Rolls-Royce Spey or TF34). Advertisement Advertisement The aerodynamic configuration was unusual, to say the least, consisting of a self-stabilising aerofoil formed by the fuselage between the tail booms, with the upper surface blowing across all lifting surfaces, providing the aircraft with extremely short take-off and landing capabilities. Internal weapon bays could carry up to ten 1000-Ib (455 kg) bombs, and external pylons could carry an additional 3000 Ibs (1364 kg). 7: Addax Addax The gun armament would have been ferocious, comprising either four 30-mm Oerlikon cannon or two 20-mm M61A1 Vulcans. Maximum speed would have been 740mph, and it would have had a tactical radius of 480 miles with maximum bombload. The Addax-S was even more impressive. This was a supersonic air-superiority fighter based on the same configuration, with outstanding manoeuvrability. Of course, The New Zealand Government was never really going to fund either Addax, but it was an intriguingly left-field glimpse of how fighters could have evolved. The designs were released in 1982, but even today they appear more futuristic than any known aircraft programme. 6: Armed Blackbirds Armed Blackbirds In January 1961, Lockheeds legendary aeroplane designer Kelly Johnson delivered an unsolicited proposal to the US Air Force. His idea was to take the Mach 3 A-12 spy plane the predecessor of the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, which Johnson had designed for the CIA and modify it to become a very fast strategic bomber, designated RB-12. Advertisement Advertisement More or less in parallel, Johnson was working on a missile-armed fighter version of the A-12, which would have been designated F-12 had it entered service. The Air Force liked Johnsons original bomber idea but counter-proposed it with a slightly altered design that it called the RS-12. 6: Armed Blackbirds Armed Blackbirds The idea was to take the A-12s sled-like titanium airframe with its powerful J58 turbojets and add a sophisticated, long-range radar and a nuclear-tipped tipped air-to-ground missile based on the AIM-47 (originally known as GAR-9) air-to-air missile that also armed the F-12. The plan was for the RS-12 to penetrate Soviet air space at Mach 3.2 and 80,000 feet (24,384 metres), and fire a single missile from 50 miles (80 km) away, striking within 50 feet (15 metres) of its aim-point within a Soviet city. The Department of Defense ultimately cancelled the F-12 on cost grounds and opted not to proceed with the RS-12. 5: North American XB-70 Valkyrie North American XB-70 Valkyrie Angular and distinctly space-age in appearance, the vast Valkyrie was perhaps the most impressive aircraft ever flown. Boasting a top speed exceeding Mach 3, and an all-up maximum weight exceeding 236,000 kg, the cancelled North American XB-70 bomber was an extraordinary machine. Advertisement Advertisement Answering a 1954 requirement for a replacement for the B-52 bomber, which required an aircraft of strategic reach that could attack the Soviet Union, with nuclear weapons, with impunity. Slowly the requirement grew in ambition calling for a higher and higher top speed. 5: North American XB-70 Valkyrie North American XB-70 Valkyrie Power for the aircraft came from no less than six General Electric YJ93-GE-3 turbojets. Each engine could generate 28,000 Ibf of thrust with afterburning, totalling an astonishing 168,000 Ibf of thrust. To put this into perspective this is more than 10 times more power than the Mach 2 capable F-104 Starfighter. As well as the vast dramatic intakes and exhausts, key to the XB-70s good looks were its huge delta wing with movable outer sections, and large canard foreplanes. Arguably, no other aircraft has ever combined aesthetics that combine aggressive power with elegance and massive proportions, to such a degree as the Valkyrie. 4: Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat The appearance of the MiG-25 Foxbat (initially erroneously identified as the MiG-23 in the West) caused shockwaves of panic to Western Defence planners. The aircraft was extremely fast, faster than any operational Western fighter, and it was expected that it would be fitted with advanced systems. Advertisement Advertisement It was also a reconnaissance aircraft; the March 1971 deployment of Soviet MiG-25s and pilots to Egypt and their unopposed overflights of Israel were a shock to the West. Although their contributions to Egyptian security and intel were minimal, their impact on Israeli security was profound. 4: Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25R Foxbat Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25R Foxbat Even with only two Mach 2.5 overflights a month, the inability of Israeli F-4s and Mirage IIIs to intercept and destroy the Foxbats raised serious questions in Tel Aviv and in Washington about the ability of Western aircraft to engage what was considered the most dangerous Soviet aircraft yet. As a fighter-interceptor, the MiG-25 proved far more potent than many expected; in Iraqi hands, it shot down at least two Iranian F-4 Phantoms IIs in the Iran-Iraq War, and in Desert Storm, downed a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornet. The MiG-25 spawned a more advanced derivative, the MiG-31. 3: Dassault Mach 3 Mirage (1958 onwards) Dassault Mach 3 Mirage (1958 onwards) Consumed with the contemporary desire for ever-faster aircraft, Nord Aviation and Dassault launched studies into Mach 3+ fighters from 1958, known respectively as the Super Griffon and Mirage VIA projects. These appeared overly ambitious and were not given much priority until 1964, when it became apparent that both the USA and USSR had started the production of Mach 3-capable warplanes. Advertisement Advertisement This led to a call for tenders for extremely fast aircraft, issued by the Centre de Prospective et dEvaluations (CPE) on 14 December 1965, to Breguet, Dassault, Nord and Sud Aviation. Proposals from Dassault and Sud were accepted in May 1966. 3: Dassault Mach 3 Mirage (1958 onwards) Dassault Mach 3 Mirage (1958 onwards) These vast, unwieldy, long-range strike aircraft were now not what the AdAs (French Air Force) Chief-of-Staff, General Gabriel Gauthier, wanted; instead desiring a lighter Mach 3 (later Mach 2.7)-capable fighter with high agility at lower speeds. Looking back from the present day, with the benefit of hindsight, it appears Gauthier may have been moving things in the right direction. The variable geometry G4 design was radically modified to become the Mirage G8A or Avion de Combat Futur (ACF), a fixed-geometry wing development of the G8. This 14,000 kg aircraft was the subject of studies during 197375, before being deemed too expensive to be practical. 2: Mikoyan-Gurevich Ye-150 series (1959) Mikoyan-Gurevich Ye-150 series (1959) Answering the question what happens if you dramatically scale-up a MiG-21 and add a great deal more power, the Soviet Ye-150 could out-drag and out-climb any fighter in the world, and they also looked exceptionally mean. Despite taking its first flight as long ago as 1959, the Ye-150 could reach an astonishing Mach 2.65 (some sources claim even higher speeds) and could ascend to altitudes above 69,000 feet (21,031 metres). Advertisement Advertisement Remarkably, all of this was achieved with the same installed thrust as todays rather more pedestrian Saab JAS 39 Gripen (which can reach a rather more sedate Mach 2). The series of four experimental fighter prototypes was built in an effort to create a new, highly automated fighter to defend the Soviet Union against a proliferating Western threat. 2: Mikoyan-Gurevich Ye-150 series (1959) Mikoyan-Gurevich Ye-150 series (1959) To catch and destroy these fast, high-flying intruders, including supersonic bombers like the B-58, then in development, the interceptor was to be automatically steered under the guidance of ground radars before engaging its own cutting-edge detection and weapons systems. But it was a case of too much too soon; the ferociously exacting requirements for the electronics, missiles and powerplant were too demanding, and each suffered severe delays and development problems. What could have been the best interceptor in the world was ultimately cancelled in 1962. 1: Project Pluto Project Pluto To the ancient Greeks, Pluto was the ruler of the underworld and the lord of the dead, and as such, is a grimly appropriate name for the particularly nasty Project Pluto. Project Pluto was not a crewed aircraft but a plan for one of the most ghoulish weapons projects of the Cold War. The idea was simple: stick a nuclear ramjet in a cruise missile. A nuclear ramjet is a type of engine that uses a nuclear reactor to heat air and create thrust. To be known as SLAM (Supersonic Low-Altitude Missile), the result would have been a weapon fast enough, travelling at over Mach 3, to be virtually immune to interception by air defences of the day. 1: Project Pluto Project Pluto With an endurance measured in weeks (or even months), this Cold War weapon (the size of a locomotive) could distribute multiple nuclear warheads before leisurely cruising around leaking deadly radiation over huge areas of cursed land before crashing to earth to heap misery upon the already widespread misery as its onboard nuclear reactor disintegrates. This was clearly among the worst ideas ever considered. Testing the weapon would have involved irradiating great tracts of land causing massive long-term environmental damage, and thats before you even consider what to do with the reactor at the end of a test flight. The equivalent of $2 billion dollars was spent before this mad idea was cancelled in 1964. Follow Joe Coles on Substack, Twitter X or Blue Sky. His superb Hush-Kit Book of Warplanes is available here. If you enjoyed this story, please click the Follow button above to see more like it from Autocar Photo Licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en ]]> "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Jamaica is the starting point of every collection, says Rachel Scott, the Kingston-born designer of the CFDA-award-winning New York label Diotima, whose sensual, earthy pieces showcase the work of crochet artisans from her homeland. It is my grounding, my foundation. The Caribbean island has long served as muse to not just those who were born therelike pioneering reggae musicians Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, writers like Claude McKay and Marlon James, and the inimitable Grace Jonesbut also countless artists whose work has been transformed by Jamaicas singular spirit, among them writer Zora Neale Hurston and the Rolling Stones. Advertisement Advertisement Artists go to Jamaica to get inspired, says New Yorkbased hairstylist Jawara Wauchope, who grew up in Jamaica and has worked with everyone from Beyonce to Rihanna. And Im not just talking about reggae, adds Wauchope, who hails from reggae royalty himself. (His mom is Sister Carol.) People spend years in Jamaica to create. What I saw and experienced there as a child reflects in my work and in embracing boldness and color in hair and beauty. I consider it the origin of how I feel about life. So when Hurricane Melissa devastated southwest Jamaica last October, not long after the damage wrought by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, all of the islands people and devotees rallied. There was heartbreak, of course, too. The Caribbean contributes less than one percent of global emissions, yet we are on the forefront of its effects, Scott points out. Once again, we are put in the position of rebuilding after destruction we did not create. Abigail Mair Jason Henzell, the owner of the legendary Jakes Hotel in Treasure Beach (his father was Perry Henzell, director of the classic film The Harder They Come, starring Cliff), says that in some ways he is grateful to Beryl. It taught him to adapt to the times and build back stronger. After all, he adds, Thats the price for living in paradise. Since Beryl, his foundation, Breds, which focuses on local education and conservation, has been on the front line of disaster response. When asked what others can do to help, he answers immediately, Tell everyone to come to Jamaica and help us put our economy back on track! While it took months to repair and reopen Jakes Hotel, Henzell says that just a few weeks after the storm, he opened a makeshift restaurant to keep spirits up and locals fed. Marika Kessler, CEO of the hospitality company Island Outpost, founded by Island Recordss Chris Blackwell, notes that more than two thirds of the island escaped damage from the storm and can welcome people. That includes the companys mythical seafront GoldenEye estate (once the retreat of Ian Fleming and a likely spot for a Grace Jones sighting), which is near Ocho Rios, and Strawberry Hill in the Blue Mountains. Kessler, who was on the island during the storm, affirms that the spirit of the Jamaican people will bring this island back to life. Courtesy Island Outpost For the part of the island that is still rebuilding, Wauchope points to the Jamaican governments official disaster-relief and recovery portal, Support Jamaica, as the most trustworthy source of information, featuring volunteer opportunities and donation needs. He also highlights Project Hope as a worthy organization gathering donations. Scotts wife, Chaday Emmanuel, is the cofounder of Connek Ja, a resource center for the queer and trans community in Jamaica. The couple worked to gather mutual aid in the aftermath of the storm and in advance of the organizations annual ballroom event, the Doll Ball, in Kingston last November. Advertisement Advertisement Both Wauchope and Scott speak with reverence about Rockhouse in Negril, a 40-room boutique hotel perched on volcanic cliffs, as a spot beloved by both international tourists and what Scott calls dry-land tourists (a.k.a. locals). Jumping off the cliffs into the water is nothing short of restorative, says Scott. I am quite the mermaid, so I love snorkeling around the coral reefs. The hotels foundation created a Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund, which is currently helping to rebuild a local public school that, despite taking on significant damage, served as a community kitchen and food-distribution center with World Central Kitchen. Courtesy Rockhouse Hotel Another favorite town is Port Antonio, which offers, Wauchope says, the real, authentic feel of Jamaica. He also advises visitors to have some fresh seafood at the tucked-away Soldier Camp Bar & Grill and take in the Blue Lagoon, which has water so blue and captivating, bathing here feels almost spiritual. Some savored flavors include the hot-pepper sauce from the Stush in the Bush organic farm and restaurant in St. Ann Parish and the beef patties from Devon House Bakery in Kingston. Theyre using something different for the crust, and its insane, says Wauchope. They are otherworldly. Gareth Cobran Courtesy Devon House Bakery But above all, to experience the warm-hearted, vibrant, and resilient soul of the country, Scott implores, get off the resorts. Experience the music, the people, and the infectious spirit on the streets or at a party or in a dance hall. Go to a local party, drive around, and stop at any small bar you find in the countryside, says Scott. Order a special, which is white rum and Ting, a Jamaican grapefruit soda. And if you see a jelly man on the side of the road, get a fresh, ice-cold coconut water, and after drinking it, eat the coconut meatthe jelly. This story originally appeared in the February 2026 issue of Harpers Bazaar. You Might Also Like WILTON Dearta Logu Fusaro left Albania to join her family in the United States 29 years ago, but her family's connection to the land remains, including her father's wish to lay "his soul to rest back home." In 2023, her father Zef Logu was diagnosed with lung cancer and told his family he wanted to be buried in Albania when the time comes. "We didn't have one foot in both countries so to speak, so it was difficult for me to think about us not having him here and being able to see his grave and celebrate the end of his life here close to us," said Fusaro, a Wilton resident. Advertisement Advertisement That summer, Fusaro, now 41, embarked on a three-month, 435-mile pilgrimage through seven Balkan countries with her husband Justin to better understand her father's love for the land and connect with a familiar country through a new lens. Fusaro will share stories from her expedition at the Wilton Library Feb. 10 as chronicled in her 2025 travel memoir "The Illyrian Way." Each section features maps based on Fusaro's journey, detailed descriptions of the trails, guest house spotlights, collected recipes and unique cultural elements for each country she visited. Their journey took them through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Albania, as well as long-distance trails, including Via Dinarica, Peaks of the Balkans and High Scardus. While she had embraced her Albanian American culture growing up, Fusaro said she never thought about being attached to the land the same way as her father, who currently lives in Staten Island. Advertisement Advertisement "It was about this constant choice to belong here," she said, "and it was tough to hear when a diagnosis like this comes up that he wants to go home away from us, and while I was allowing him to go through his own individualistic journey about this I decided to take a hike." Fusaro said she wanted to understand the land's traditions, cultures and traumas and add her own fabric to the land based on her experiences, her father's experiences and "the Western Balkans' theme of reconciliation." Pondering her identity nearly three years after her expedition, Fusaro said pride in her Albanian heritage was the biggest takeaway from her journey. Fusaro said she always had "a very Hollywoodized perspective" of her life in Albania before she moved to the United States when she was 12. Advertisement Advertisement "I went to college and no one here knew about Albania, so we would sit around in my college dorm and I would tell them all the stories and then make different Albanian food," she said. They would also attend events at the Albanian embassy in Washington D.C., where she was attending school. "Basically, I was proud of my duality," Fusaro said. But for her father, there was more to the story behind their Albanian heritage. Fusaro said her father grew up in Albania during a communist regime that experienced democracy "for a very short period time, and that democracy turned out to be a false advertisement of democracy." Advertisement Advertisement Her father came to the U.S. in 1996 as civil war broke out in Albania and asked the U.S. government for political asylum. Her mother Lena Ivanaj later immigrated to the United States with Fusaro's sisters, Marciana and Jozefina Logu, followed by Fusaro. "We have thrived as a family, as individuals, of course without forgetting where we came from," Fusaro said. As they acclimated to their new life in the United States, she said her family maintained the legacy of their culture and practiced Albanian traditions. She said they also have distant relatives in Albania who they visit every couple of years for vacations, weddings and funerals. Fusaro said they are the only people in 12 generations of their family to live outside a valley in the northern Albanian mountains. Advertisement Advertisement The decision to hike the Balkans was a late switch for Fusaro and her husband, who had made a pact to take "a long-distance walking journey every five years primarily to remove ourselves from the environment we loved." Their first journey was a 500-mile hike on Camino de Santiago from southern France to western Spain, followed by a trek on the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. She said they had planned to embark on a trek around 88 temples in Shikoku, Japan when her father was diagnosed, and they changed to the Western Balkans. With little information available about hiking the Western Balkans, Fusaro said she and her husband connected with a few Facebook groups of people who had done it and downloaded maps for their journey. Fusaro said they also connected with her relatives in Albania, who told them they were "crazy" for taking the trek. Advertisement Advertisement She admitted she had her own reservations about her safety as an Albanian American traveling across the seven countries. "We knew it wouldn't be perfect, but we felt comfortable knowing what 80% of it would look like," Fusaro said. "We also knew we could jump out at any moment. If you've done a long hike before, you know what your body needs and how your body reacts to it so you can create a safety plan for each of those reactions." Fusaro said she and her husband hiked 20 to 25 miles per day, selecting certain stretches of the three trails to "get a taste" of the countries' culture, people and "belonging to the land." Using a combination of "there and back" and thru hikes, she said they planned their trip in a way where they could walk through the national parks rather than going from village to village. While they were hiking between eight and 10 hours a day, she said they always had the car as "a safety mechanism for getting out at any moment." Advertisement Advertisement On their trek, the Fusaros encountered various wildlife, including mountain goats, sheep, eagles, falcons, alpine flowers of various colors and bear tracks. They sampled "the best cheese we ever tasted" in Kosovo and even attended a wedding for one of Fusaro's cousins while in Albania. "I've always felt of this world by the fact that I moved from one continent to another," she said, "and when I traveled for work, I felt comfortable. My identity was about how I was an American citizen, but I was also a global citizen. Coming back, I've leaned more into the Balkan culture's unification or spirit of reconciliation." This article originally published at Wilton author embarks on 435-mile journey across 7 Balkan countries to understand her family's roots. While the city of Pueblos diverse culinary scene has something to offer foodies of all preferences, few local eateries are as beloved and well patronized as Pueblo Mexican restaurants. Whether youre searching for spicy shrimp tacos, tasty tamales, barbacoa burritos, flavorful flautas, or mouth-watering menudo, Pueblo residents and visitors alike dont have to look far to find excellent Mexican cuisine. Arturo Chef Cesar Munoz prepares keto tacos for a customer at B&C Tacos Inc. on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Which local restaurant serves the best Mexican food is a matter of fierce debate for Puebloans, but the crowd-sourcing website Yelp has identified some of the city's standout establishments. Advertisement Advertisement Here are Pueblos top five Mexican restaurants in 2026, according to Yelp reviewers. No. 1: B&C Tacos, 123 N. Main St. B&C Tacos Inc. menu includes an array of fresh options including the fish salad. Rating: 4.5 stars (43 reviews) Yelp reviewers who shared their thoughts on this Downtown taco shop applaud its hospitable service and amazing, flavorful, delicious food. Wow! So freaking good, we got the shrimp taco and red pork taco, wrote one five-star reviewer. I have been searching for flavorful and delicious Mexican food for soooo long since moving to Colorado. This checked all of the boxes. I can't wait to come back and try more tacos! No. 2: Taqueria Marquez, 710 E. Fourth St. The chile rellano with rice and beans plate is a popular menu item at Taqueria Marquez, 710 E. Fourth Street. Rating: 4.5 stars (39 reviews) Diners who shared their feelings lauded Taqueria Marquezs great tasting authentic Mexican food, with some of the best spicy salsas in Pueblo. Advertisement Advertisement Excellent food. Definitely not your too salty or too spicy Mexican. Just perfect. Service staff also very friendly! wrote one five-star reviewer. No. 3: El Charro Restaurant, 2042 E. Evans Ave. The flour chicken tacos are a popular item at El Charro Restaurant, 2042 E. Evans Avenue. 4.5 stars (21 reviews) The word amazing pops up several times in the top reviews for El Charro, with customers complimenting its delicious food, exceptional service, and sizable portions. I almost hate to do this because I want to keep it all for myself, but this is a hidden treasure on Pueblo's Southside, wrote one five-star reviewer. Authentic Mexican food and very friendly staff. I've loved everything I've eaten here, but the chile rellenos are my favorite. No. 4: Tacos Fuego, 1305 E. Routt Ave. Tacos Fuego is located at 1305 E. Routt Avenue. 4.4 stars (101 reviews) As the businesss name implies, Tacos Fuego is known for its scrumptious tacos, with popular fillings like birria, chicken tinga, and carne asada. Advertisement Advertisement Yelp reviewers were especially taken with the restaurants trendy atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent food. My favorite restaurant in Pueblo! Food is just like my grandparents' cooking. The staff are very friendly, attentive, and respectful. I always feel welcome when I eat here. Not to mention the salsa bar is a fun addition to the experience If I won the lottery, I would give them half! wrote one five-star reviewer. No. 5: El Pampano Foods, 1027 S. Pueblo Blvd. The birria quesotacos, left, and Pueblo chicharrone tacos are two popular dishes at El Pampano Foods, 2042 S. Pueblo Blvd. 4.4 stars (14 reviews) While El Pampano Foods currently only has 14 reviews, those who shared their thoughts on Yelp celebrated its friendly staff, clean environment, and dang delicious food, particularly its tamales and the best chilaquiles in town. Today I have experienced the best restaurant we have ever been to. Not just a Mexican restaurant but THE best restaurant, wrote one five-star reviewer. The amount of pride, preparation and cleanliness from this restaurant is an A+ Amazing on every level. No. 6: Tacos Navarro, 223 E. Northern Ave. The street tacos are the top seller at Tacos Navarro, 223 E. Northern Avenue. 4.4 stars (159 reviews) Featuring popular menu items like street tacos, monster burritos and loaded nachos, Yelp reviewers commended Tacos Navarro for its delicious food, affordable prices and sizable portions. Advertisement Advertisement "Great authentic street-style tacos conveniently located just off I-25. Friendly and fast service. Delicious carnitas and carne. Salsas are spicy and flavorful. Will definitely be back next time I'm in Pueblo," wrote one five-star reviewer from out of town. No. 7: Mill Stop Cafe, 317 Bay State Ave. Pupular menu items include beef burritos smothered in green chile at Estela's Mill Stop Cafe, 317 Baystate Avenue. 4.4 stars (189 reviews) Even after more than four decades of serving Pueblo, people still can't get enough of the Mill Stop Cafe. With popular menu items like homemade green chile, Huevos Rancheros, cheese or chicken enchiladas, and traditional sopapillas, Yelp reviewers say there's plenty to love about the family-owned restaurant known for its "excellent food and incredible service." "Absolutely the best place to eat in Pueblo. Been going there for over 30 years and I live in Colorado Springs. Just try it and you will be hooked. Best there is," wrote one five-star reviewer. Advertisement Advertisement More on Pueblo food and restaurants: Pueblo celebrates local eateries during Restaurant Month Chieftain Editor Zach Hillstrom can be reached at zhillstrom@gannett.com. Support local news; subscribe to the Pueblo Chieftain at subscribe.chieftain.com. This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Where to find Pueblo's best Mexican food, according to Yelp reviews MEXICO CITY, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Mexican government on Sunday dispatched two navy vessels carrying more than 800 tons of food supplies as humanitarian assistance to Cuba, the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. The statement said the ships departed from the eastern port of Veracruz and are expected to arrive in four days. One ship is transporting staples and personal hygiene products, and the other is loaded with powdered milk. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday pledged that her government will send humanitarian aid, including food and other basic supplies, to Cuba. Sheinbaum also said that efforts are being made "to resume oil shipments to Cuba," after Mexico halted crude and refined products shipments to the island in mid-January. The United States has taken a major step to accelerate production of Tomahawk, AMRAAM and other missiles. Therefore, the Department of War has signed five landmark agreements with RTX's Raytheon. The deal aims to significantly increase production capacity and speed deliveries of Land Attack and Maritime Strike variants of Tomahawk, AMRAAM missiles, Standard Missile-3 Block IB interceptors (SM-3 IB), Standard Missile-3 Block IIA interceptors (SM-3 IIA), and Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). The company revealed that as global demand for these precision munitions continues to grow, these up-to-seven-year agreements establish frameworks to build on the company's previous investments to expand production. RTX to increase annual production of precision strike weapons Under the frameworks announced, RTX will increase annual production of Tomahawks to more than 1,000, AMRAAMs to at least 1,900, and SM-6 to more than 500. RTX will also increase production of SM-3 IIA and accelerate production of the SM-3 IB. Many of these munitions will grow 2 to 4 times their existing production rates, according to a press release. "These agreements redefine how government and industry can partner to speed the delivery of critical technologies and are a direct result of the administration's Acquisition Transformation Strategy and commitment to deliver the best technologies faster," said RTX CEO and Chairman Chris Calio. "We are proud to support the department's Arsenal of Freedom to ensure the United States and its allies and partners have the decisive edge now and in the future." Tomahawk can precisely hit target from 1,000 miles away RTX will accelerate production of Tomahawk, which is a precision weapon launched from ships and submarines and it can strike targets precisely from 1,000 miles away, even in heavily defended airspace. U.S. and allied militaries have flight tested the Tomahawk over 550 times and used it in an operational environment more than 2,300 times. It is routinely the first option employed by U.S. forces to target hostile forces anywhere in the world. The company will also boost production of AMRAAM, which is the world's most widely deployed, air-to-air missile. Since 2024, Raytheon has been producing the fifth-generation AMRAAM, featuring advanced guidance, software-defined capabilities and enhanced electronic protection for highly contested combat environments. In service with more than 40 allies and partners, AMRAAM is integrated across fourth and fifth-generation aircraft and serves as the primary interceptor for NASAMS, supporting both air-to-air and ground-based air defense. Production nearly doubled in 2025 from 2024 and performance has been proven through more than 6,000 test shots and 13 air-to-air combat victories. RTX has invested heavily in capacity expansion to accelerate production of several critical munitions and will continue investing in capacity expansion and production acceleration projects. Production under these framework agreements will be completed at Raytheon facilities in Tucson, Ariz., Huntsville, Ala., and Andover, Mass, as per the release. The company investments associated with these framework agreements have been contemplated in RTX's recently announced financial outlook for 2026. The long-term agreements incorporate a collaborative funding approach designed to preserve upfront free cash flow, allowing RTX to invest confidently to meet long-term demand. KANSAS CITY, Mo. One man was found dead while firefighters were responding to a fire at an apartment complex early Monday morning in Overland Park. The fire was reported just after 5 a.m. Monday at an apartment complex on 106th Terrace, just off Antioch Road and Interstate 435. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri According to Overland Park Fire Chief Alan Long, arriving crews saw the fire coming from the roof of one of the two-story buildings. Firefighters searched several apartments and found a deceased person inside one of the units on the second floor. Advertisement Advertisement The victim has since been identified by the fire department as 55-year-old David Eugene Slavens. The fire department said it took crews about 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. No other injuries have been reported from the fire, but the fire department said residents from six of the units have been displaced as a result. The fire damaged several apartments and the roof of the building. By Monday afternoon, the fire department said it was still investigating the cause of the fire. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A 61-year-old man was found dead, and a 66-year-old man was found unconscious but alive in a driveway over the weekend. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] North Olmsted Police Detective Matt Beck told our CBS affiliate WOIO-19 that this appears to be a tragic accident where alcohol was a factor and not a homicide. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement According to Detective Lieutenant Beck, both men returned to 61-year-old Jeffrey Ropps home in the 26900 block of Kingston Circle on Friday night. Donald Matthei, 66, slipped and fell on the driveway and lost consciousness, WOIO-19 reported. Ropp then exited the passengers side of Mattheis truck and also fell. Both men are believed to have been outside for nearly 11 hours before being found, WOIO-19 reported. Ropp was pronounced dead at the scene. Matthei was taken to University Hospitals St. John Medical Center. Detective Lieutenant Beck told WOIO-19 they are still working to confirm Mattheis statements, but nothing discovered to this point contradicts his statements. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Firefighters battled a two-alarm blaze that destroyed a home in Atlantic County on Monday morning. It happened around 5 a.m. on the unit block of Cannon Range Road in Milmay, New Jersey. Chopper 6 was overhead where heavy smoke and fire could be seen coming from the roof of the home. Crews say they had to bring in water supply from nearby Vineland, New Jersey to help battle the flames. The fire took about an hour to get under control. There are no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A stolen car crashed into a nearly 200-year-old historic building during a police chase on Wednesday. A Dublin Police Officer said officers tried to stop a car speeding through a school zone around 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 4, according to our news partners, WBNS. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement The vehicle ran a red light at Bridge and High Streets, colliding with another car, and then crashing into Donatos. A man and a juvenile got out of the car and fled. Officers took them into custody, and they were taken to the hospital. Police learned that the car was stolen. The driver, 20-year-old Carson King, was charged with felony fleeing and receiving stolen property. It is unknown if the juvenile is facing charges. Evan James was down the street at work when the crash happened. We got a call from a neighbor down the street that there was a car crash that happened at Donatos and that two people had fled the scene and were heading in our direction, James said. Advertisement Advertisement The building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was damaged in the crash. For a while, many years, it was known as the Hutchinson Hotel, said Tom Holton, senior historian with the Dublin Historical Society. The building dates back to the 1830s when one of Dublins founders, John Sells, built the building as a wedding present for his daughter, said Holton. After nearly 200 years, the building has not changed much, but repairs will be needed to preserve its history, he Holton. I dont know how theyre going to do it. But theyll have to rebuild it or repair it in as correct, as authentic of a manner as possible, Holton said. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Students at 23 New Jersey colleges and universities will soon begin seeing upgrades to their campuses thanks to grants handed out through a state-backed bond program. The 92 grants totaling $244.4 million will go toward maintenance projects, campus security upgrades and general improvements at facilities used by students, state officials said. (See a list of some of the projects on each campus below.) State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions, said Angela Bethea, the states acting secretary of higher education. Advertisement Advertisement The money for the projects is coming from the states Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund and the Higher Education Facilities Trust. The largest recipient of the recent round of grants is New Jersey City University, a public university that has struggled with funding problems in recent years. The school is slated to merge with Kean University later this year. The 99-year-old public university in Jersey City will receive grants totaling $44 million for multiple projects. Former Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation shortly before leaving office transferring all of New Jersey City Universitys academic programs, facilities and assets to Kean University. Advertisement Advertisement Deferred maintenance has been a longstanding issue on the NJCU campus, predating the merger by many years, Kean University spokesperson Nicole Francisco said. There was a clear understanding that addressing those infrastructure needs would require a significant state investment to position the campus for long-term success. The $44 million provided by the state reflects that broader effort to stabilize and strengthen the campus, Francisco said. The 92 grants at the 23 colleges and universities are funding a wide range of facility improvements, including structural repairs to meet health, safety, fire and building code standards, officials said. Fire alarms are being upgraded, emergency generators are being installed and building access is being enhanced. Outdated HVAC systems, boilers and chillers are being replaced. Classrooms and labs are being renovated, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Preserving, maintaining, and reimagining college campuses across the state has helped New Jersey maintain its role as a leader in higher education, said Sheryl Stitt, executive director of the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority, a state agency that helps finance projects on college campuses. With deferred maintenance needs in higher education growing exponentially across the country, this investment will have a meaningful impact on the States higher education environments where our students and faculty live, learn, and work every day, Stitt said. A full list of the 92 projects is available on the states website. Examples of projects on each campus include: County College of Morris- $6,175,000 Upgrades at the county college will address fire and life safety codes at Cohen Hall, Sheffield Hall, DeMare Hall, Emeriti Hall and connected areas. Drew University- $516,025 Drew is replacing the chiller serving the Ehinger Centers student services area, which houses administrative offices, Title IX compliance, student affairs leadership, and other student support functions. Essex County College- $1,000,000 The college is renovating approximately 100 instructional spaces, including general classrooms, the Siegler and Smith lecture halls, the Mary B. Burch Theater and the multipurpose room. Fairleigh Dickinson University- $8,313,855 The universitys Library Learning Center at its Metropolitan campus in Teaneck is being updated to shift from emphasizing print resources and siloed research to focusing on digital learning, interdisciplinary exploration and global connections. Felician University Lodi Felician University- $2,575,096 The university is making technology infrastructure improvements, building repairs for accessibility and safety, and energy efficiency and safety renovations across both of its campuses Kean University- $1,550,000 Kean is renovating DAngola Gymnasium, which opened in 1963. Middlesex College- $3,756,400 The county college will make improvements to the sprinkler system, campus security and communications facility emergency equipment. Montclair State University- $9,075,000 Montclair State is upgrading HVAC units and other systems at its Harry A. Sprague Library, which opened in 1963. Grossnickle Hall New Jersey City University- $418,000 A new roof is planned for Grossnickle Hall, a four-story academic building that opened in 1962. The project will improve insulation and energy efficiency while preventing leaks and structural damage. New Jersey Institute of Technology- $12,150,000 Tiernan Hall, which opened in 1966, is being modernized by resolving a range of deferred maintenance projects. The building houses several academic departments, including classrooms, labs and lecture halls on the Newark campus. Ocean County College- $260,990 Ocean County College is replacing roofs on its Manahawkin campus building and Toms River campus information technology building. Ramapo College- $1,610,000 Work includes adding monitor modules to 15 back-up generator systems, installing a cellular based networking system for fire alarm panels throughout all academic and administrative buildings, and replacing stairs and two ramps. Rowan College of South Jersey- $10,620,000 The project includes replacing and installing a comprehensive rooftop HVAC system and boiler replacement to modernize aging mechanical infrastructure in the College Center and medical buildings. Rowan University- $2,000,000 The project will include mechanical upgrades at Science Hall to replace the buildings original exhaust fan system and install a new direct digital building controls system. Rutgers University- $3,600,000 Rutgers is replacing several roofs on the three-story Murray Hall academic building in New Brunswick. It opened in 1908. Saint Elizabeth University- $4,000,000 Saint Elizabeth is pursuing a facilities modernization project. The university opened in 1899 and is based in Morris Township and Florham Park. Saint Peters University- $4,868,558 The grant will pay for upgrading the boiler system at McDermott Hall, water management improvements at Loyola Hall and building infrastructure improvements at Guarini House. Seton Hall University- $8,450,000 Seton Hall is undertaking several maintenance projects, including renovation of Corrigan Hall, which has administrative and academic offices. Stevens Institute of Technology- $8,237,458 Stevens is renovating the 57-year-old Samuel C. Williams Library by addressing space constraints and accommodating technological upgrades in teaching, learning and research. Stockton University- $7,614,058 Stockton is undertaking a multi-building roof replacement project to improve drainage and waterproofing while enhancing energy efficiency. The College of New Jersey- $10,305,294 TCNJs Campus Utilities Deferred Maintenance and Energy Savings Project is described as a comprehensive initiative aimed at modernizing critical campus infrastructure, mitigating operational risks and achieving long-term energy savings. Union College- $15,000,000 The county colleges HVAC rooftop units at the Lessner Building are being replaced, along with the escalator that runs between the second and fifth floors. William Paterson University William Paterson University- $4,287,775 William Paterson is renovating its Atrium academic and office building in order to promote innovation and collaboration. It opened in 1996. Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here. NEED TO KNOW Tyler Bojanowski, 25, of Wyandotte, Mich., was last seen on Feb. 5 and his truck found near a Best Western Bojanowski's mom said that before he disappeared, he told her he was "going to a friend's house" "Tyler, if you're out there, and if you're watching this, please just call me," his mom said. "Please just come home." The search continues for a 25-year-old man with a brain injury, who disappeared after telling his mom that he was visiting a friend, The Allen Park (Michigan) Police Department issued a missing persons bulletin for Tyler Bojanowski, 25, of Wyandotte, on Sunday, Feb. 8. Advertisement Advertisement He was last seen in the early morning hours of Thursday, Feb. 5 around 2:30 a.m. local time, according to authorities. His truck was later found on Enterprise Drive near a Best Western in Allen Park. His mom, Nicole Dillon, said that video footage showed her son, who was not wearing a coat, walking away from the vehicle, reported CBS affiliate WWJ. Bojanowski's passport was found nearby at Dingell Park, according to the outlet. Bojanowski's mom told WWJ that she last saw her son on Wednesday, Feb. 4, and that before he went missing, he called "and said that he was going to a friend's house." Advertisement Advertisement Dillon, who told the outlet she has been caring for her son, who experienced a brain injury following a car crash, went on to say she couldn't recall anything unusual about their recent conversations. "Tyler, if you're out there, and if you're watching this, please just call me," Dillon said. "Please just come home." In a Saturday, Feb. 8, Facebook post, Dillon wrote that despite efforts by law enforcement and their family, Bojanowski remained missing. "Thank you to everyone who helped search and thank you everyone for all the shares and really getting his info out there," she wrote, calling the message the "hardest thing I've had to post." Advertisement Advertisement "Please pray that hes found safe," she added. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Authorities described Bojanowski as a 59 man with blonde hair, blue eyes and glasses who weighs around 200 lbs. Those with information about his whereabouts are encouraged to contact the Wyandotte Police Department. Read the original article on People The Brief Authorities say three people were found dead in a Wisconsin house fire early Saturday morning. The Burnett County Sheriff's Office said three known occupants of the home were found dead. The incident is under investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Fire Marshal's Office. ANDERSON - The Burnett County Sheriff's Office said three people were found dead inside a home that was engulfed in flames in Anderson Township. Fatal Wisconsin fire What we know Authorities say they responded to reports of a home engulfed in flames on Shogren Road at about 4:48 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. Advertisement Advertisement First responders then found three known occupants of the home dead. The Wisconsin Department of Justice Fire Marshal's Office was called to assist. What you can do The cause of the fire is still being investigated. No identifying information on the people found dead has been released. The Source This story uses information shared by the Burnett County Sheriff's Office. [Watch in the player above: The most commonly reported crimes in the U.S.] ELYRIA, Ohio (WJW) Elyria Police Departments Operation Sub Zero, a weeks-long crackdown on violent crime and drugs and weapons offenses, ended with dozens of arrests and took drugs and stolen guns off the streets. The operation started Jan. 1 and ended on Feb. 6 with 30 arrests, the recoveries of 14 stolen firearms and the seizure of 3.75 ounces of illegal narcotics, according to a Monday, Feb. 9, news release from police. Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors want second opinion on competency for suspect accused of killing cop Operation Sub Zero sends a clear message that even in sub-freezing temperatures, we maintain zero tolerance for violence, drugs, and weapons offenses in Elyria, Police Chief James Welsh is quoted in the release. Cold weather does not stop violent crime, and it will not stop us. We remain relentless in our enforcement efforts, and nothing will stand in our way of protecting this community. The all-hands-on-deck operation included the police departments Detective Bureau, Neighborhood Impact and Narcotics units and Special Response Team, according to the release. The adult arrestees ranged in age from 18 to 58 years old, according to the release. Andre Donte Lee (Lorain County Sheriffs Office) The charges included two first-degree felony counts, trafficking in cocaine and possession of cocaine, against 35-year-old Andre Donte Lee, of Elyria. Court records show Lee posted a $10,000 bond. Hes due back in court on Tuesday, Feb. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Police also certified felony rioting charges against three juvenile girls, whose names have been withheld, according to the release. See the full list of suspects arrested during Operation Sub Zero: Braylon Stone, 18 : Carrying concealed weapon, aggravated riot Sean Young 19 : Aggravated riot Muriel Byrge, 21 : Aggravated riot, endangering children Scarlett Byrge, 41 : Aggravated riot Sean Brown, 49 : Aggravated riot Demetrius Johnson, 24 : Complicity to discharge firearm, tampering with evidence Exzavior Gladding, 23 : Complicity to discharge firearm, tampering with evidence Jastyn Ransby, 23 : Complicity to discharge firearm Drae Vonn Wagner, 21 : Complicity to discharge firearm Mark Simons II, 26 : Intimidation Andre Donte Lee, 35 : Trafficking in cocaine, possession of cocaine Ronald Johnson III, 25 : Strangulation, domestic violence, trafficking in cocaine, trafficking in heroin, having weapons while under disability, possession of heroin, possession of cocaine Raynathan Wade, 24 : Assault Harry Stevenson III, 45 : Trafficking in cocaine, possession of cocaine, drug paraphernalia Tevin Jackson, 35 : Trafficking in fentanyl, trafficking in cocaine, possession of fentanyl, possession of cocaine, drug paraphernalia Jayzon Ballard, 21 : Trafficking in cocaine, possession of cocaine, drug paraphernalia, aggravated menacing Knowledge King, 21 : Felonious assault, disrupting public service Troy Edwards, 50 : Trafficking in heroin, trafficking in fentanyl, trafficking in cocaine, possession of heroin, possession of fentanyl, possession of cocaine, illegal conveyance of drugs, tampering with evidence, contempt of court Carrie Pettry, 37 : Trafficking in fentanyl, contempt of court Travis Gibson, 46 : Possession of controlled substance, trafficking in drugs Brian Noble, 55 : Trafficking in cocaine, trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, permitting drug abuse, contempt of court Michael Thompson, 58 : Having weapons while under disability, trafficking in cocaine, possession of cocaine, permitting drug abuse, drug paraphernalia Kimberly Thompson, 52 : Having weapons while under disability, trafficking in cocaine, possession of cocaine, permitting drug abuse, drug paraphernalia Jared Fields : Drug paraphernalia, traffic citation Martin K. Badley III , 22: Receiving stolen property, possession of controlled substances, illegal conveyance into facility, improper handling of a firearm in a vehicle, carrying concealed weapon, having weapons while under disability, obstructing official business Amy Breitenbach, 47 : Permitting drug abuse Faith Oster, 27: Theft Suspicious death in North Olmsted appears to be accidental, police say Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on drug activity in the city is urged to call the Elyria Police Narcotics Tip Line at 440-322-7264 or deliver an anonymous tip on the citys website. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. As cold grips Florida, NASA's Artemis II rocket moves toward final test As extreme cold moves across Florida, teams at Kennedy Space Center are locked into the last major test of NASAs giant SLS moon rocket as the agency prepares for what could be the launch of the Artemis II mission in the next week. The test is referred to as wet dress rehearsal. Teams reported to their stations Saturday night and have begun going through operations leading up to a simulated launch day, which would lead up to a liftoff rehearsal time of approximately 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2. Read the full story here. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth tours Blue Origin rocket factory on Merritt Island Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a campaign-style speech to Blue Origin's rocket-factory workforce with a national-security message moving forward: "We will unleash American space dominance." Advertisement Advertisement "We can't just command the skies and the seas, or our hemisphere. We have to dominate the ultimate high ground," Hegseth said from a podium at the huge bay doors of Blue Origin's sprawling Rocket Park manufacturing facility on Monday, Feb. 2, on Merritt Island. Read the full story here. SpaceX experiences upper-stage mishap during California Starlink launch Upcoming SpaceX launches suddenly are up in the air after SpaceX reported an investigation into a mishap during a Monday Starlink launch in California. As a result, SpaceX has now updated that the next Starlink launch from the Cape will come no earlier than Feb. 14. A SpaceX Falcon 9 launched at 7:47 a.m. PT (10:47 a.m. ET) from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. While successfully carrying 25 Starlink internet satellites to orbit, the rocket's upper stage experienced a malfunction as it prepared for a deorbit burn. Advertisement Advertisement Read the full story here. Artemis II launch pushed to March after leak, issues during rocket test NASA's last major test of the Artemis II rocket did not go as hoped, with the test running into the early hours of Tuesday, Feb. 3 and ending with a hydrogen leak recurring in the rocket. As a result, the much-anticipated moon launch was pushed back to no earlier than March 6. "We will only launch when we believe we are as ready to undertake this historic mission," NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman wrote on X shortly after the fueling test concluded. Read the full story here. Blue Origin pauses space tourism flights. What that means for Florida Blue Origin won't be launching any space tourists high above Earth's atmosphere anytime soon. Advertisement Advertisement Jeff Bezos' spaceflight company is taking a hiatus from New Shepard spaceflights in West Texas for at least two years as it turns its attention to its lunar lander that was developed and will launch in Florida. Read the full story here. 'Chance for rocket to talk to us' NASA says of Artemis II launch delay NASA officials tried to put a positive spin on the critical test of the Artemis II rocket that resulted in a decision to delay the upcoming launch. Too many issues arose, proving more work needs to be done before this much-anticipated moon mission is ready to go. The Feb. 2 wet dress rehearsal test ended early with a recurring hydrogen leak, delaying liftoff another month. Now the Artemis II mission, which will send four astronauts on a test flight around the moon, is set for no earlier than March 6. The mission is the precursor to the Artemis III moon landing, returning humanity to the moon for the first time in more than 50 years. Advertisement Advertisement Read the full story here. Musk merges SpaceX, xAI for orbital data centers. Starship is part of plan Elon Musk is merging his SpaceX rocket company with his artificial intelligence startup known as xAI in a move meant to push forward the mogul's agenda of building data centers in space. The record-setting deal, which Musk announced Feb. 2, brings together two segments of Musk's business empire amid reports that the world's richest man plans to take SpaceX public in 2026. Read the full story here. Bleached Mars rocks discovered by NASA rover suggest planet was once wet More evidence that Mars was once a habitable, wet oasis not dissimilar to Earth has been found in the rocks scattered throughout the red planet. Advertisement Advertisement The rocks, bleached white from what scientists suspect was ancient rainfall and humidity on Mars, were happened upon by NASA's Perseverance rover, which launched in 2020 from Florida. The car-sized robot is one of two rovers that have spent years scouring the surface of our planetary neighbor searching for any sign that Mars was ever home to life. Read the full story here. NASA: Jupiter is smaller, more 'squashed.' What that means Jupiter, the biggest planet in our solar system, is not as big as we thought. For more than half-a-century, astronomers believed they had a good idea of the gas giant's shape and size. Now, a fresh analysis of observations from NASA's Juno orbiter launched from Florida in 2011 is causing scientists to rethink their understanding of the imposing planet. Advertisement Advertisement Read the full story here. SpaceX announces end of crewed launches from Kennedy Space Center 39A Its the end of an era as SpaceX works to remove the crew access arm from Kennedy Space Centers Pad 39A meaning no further Dragon crewed launches from the site that also launched space shuttles and the Apollo moon missions. The launch pad has seen a pause in action due to SpaceX working to finalize the Starship tower and launch pad on the site. Then on Wednesday, Feb. 4, a crane appeared next to the Falcon 9 launch tower, attaching to the crew access arm. Read the full story here. BWXT opens Melbourne IT center, pursues moon nuclear reactor for NASA A Fortune 1000 company that produces nuclear reactors and uranium fuel for the U.S. Navy now has a Melbourne office for "the IT brains of the organization" and the company hopes to develop NASA's fission powerplant on the moon's surface for future Artemis missions. Advertisement Advertisement Headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, BWX Technologies President and CEO Rex Geveden said his company's new footprint on Florida's Space Coast may rapidly expand, depending on nuclear space-industry developments. Read the full story here. NASA's Artemis 2 launch date faces delays. The latest on moon mission It's been a busy week for NASA's Artemis lunar campaign, which has experienced a number of recent setbacks as the agency has again delayed the first crewed mission under the program. The launch date for a mission known as Artemis 2, the second spaceflight under the multibillion-dollar program, has been in flux in recent days due to a variety of unforeseen circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Read the full story here. NASA plans Crew-12 launch to ISS. What to know about mission, date The next group of astronauts are preparing to launch from Florida to head to the International Space Station for a lengthy stay. NASA is hoping to accelerate the launch of a joint mission with SpaceX known as Crew-12 after four other astronauts on a previous mission had to be flown home early. That mission, Crew-11, came to an abrupt end when one of the crew members experienced a health issue that required an unprecedented medical evacuation from the orbital laboratory. Read the full story here. NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 arrives in Florida as FAA clears Falcon 9 rockets to fly NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 astronauts arrived on Florida's Space Coast Friday, Feb. 6, ahead of launch. And with SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets receiving clearance to resume launching after an upper-stage mishap, NASA is now targeting Wednesday, Feb. 11, for liftoff. Advertisement Advertisement Crew-12 is scheduled to take flight at 6:01 a.m. from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station for an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station. They will board a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft atop a Falcon 9, and their ISS target docking time is set for about 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 12. Read the full story here. For the latest news from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and NASA's Kennedy Space Center, visit floridatoday.com/space. Another easy way: Click here to sign up for our weekly 321 Launch space newsletter. Rick Neale is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY, where he has covered news since 2004. Contact Neale at Rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1 Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 321 Launch: Space news you may have missed over the past week (Feb. 9) BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- As the 2026 Chinese Spring Festival approaches, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping holiday consumption through predictive services, seamless transactions and personalized experiences, fueling a fresh wave of economic vigor. On Feb. 2, Alibaba's Qwen App launched a 3-billion-yuan (about 431 million U.S. dollars) "Spring Festival Treat Plan," partnering with several other apps including Taobao Flash Shopping, Freshippo and Tmall to offer cash rewards and free purchase opportunities. This initiative aims to cultivate user reliance on AI for daily requirements, eliminating the need for app-switching and providing one-stop services, according to Zheng Sishou, a product owner of Qwen App. "Qianwen App aims to foster the habit of users turning to AI for assistance through substantial financial investment," said Zheng. Competitors like Tencent and Baidu have joined the trend. Tencent's Yuanbao App is distributing 1 billion yuan in red envelopes, while Baidu's Ernie Bot offers 500 million yuan in rewards until March 12. These campaigns highlight a strategic push to capture user traffic and tap into spending potential, industry experts say. "With the support of AI technology, platforms and products have become more attuned to consumers," said Xu Fei, director of the research center at Taobao and Tmall Group. "Platforms are evolving from 'guess what you like' to 'understand what you need,' thus shifting the starting point of consumption from a user's list of demands to life scenarios identified by AI," Xu noted. Beyond promotions, AI is proactively identifying consumer needs. For example, air conditioner apps remind users to replace filters based on electricity usage and air quality data, while food-tracking apps estimate nutritional content and recommend low-calorie meals. Also, travel platforms suggest resort routes with tailored pit-stop services. AI not only delves into consumer demand but also assists in consumption decision-making. Recent collaborations between Xiaomi and Ant Group have enabled AI glasses to process parking payments via a glance or voice command. Earlier, JD.com partnered with AI-powered smart glasses provider Rokid to integrate shopping functions into smart glasses. "Technological innovation is driving new consumer demand, with AI-related household appliances and 3C products emerging as new consumer highlights," said JD.com CEO Xu Ran. AI-driven gadgets are becoming consumption highlights, as reflected by smart product sales on JD.com surging by over 200 percent year on year in 2025, according to Xu. Meanwhile, concurrent requests for AI livestreaming, coupon pushes and consultations are testing response speeds, underscoring the need for robust computing power. "To support peak demand during the Spring Festival, Alibaba Cloud has allocated elastic computing resources to ensure Qwen's stability amid potential traffic spikes," said Deng Conglin, who is with Alibaba Cloud. China needs to continuously strengthen AI computing power infrastructure, reduce business operating costs and enhance consumer experience, experts have said. China's "AI+" action plan, released by the State Council in August 2025, emphasizes upgrading consumption through intelligent terminals and ecosystems. The action plan aims to promote comprehensive intelligent interconnection of smart terminals, foster an ecosystem of intelligent products, and vigorously develop next-generation smart terminals, including intelligent connected vehicles, AI smartphones and computers, intelligent robots, smart home devices and wearable technology. This initiative seeks to create an integrated, full-scenario intelligent interaction environment. The year 2026 is expected to be a pivotal year for the widespread adoption of AI consumer devices, an outlook report released by China International Capital Corporation Limited has noted. Researchers at two Spanish universities have found that 84% of the contiguous U.S. states have shown signs of warming over the last 70 or so years, which is more than previously suggested. In a report published last week in the journal PLOS Climate, the researchers found that 41 U.S. states have gotten warmer since the middle of the last century. Alaska and Hawaii weren't included in the study. The states' warming patterns weren't uniform, Jesus Gonzalo, an economist and professor at the University of Charles III in Madrid, explained using a riddle. In Spain, the satirical statistics joke goes: "There are two hungry people vying over a single chicken. One eats the entire thing, leaving the other to starve. So, on average, each person has eaten half of a chicken." Advertisement Advertisement In that scenario, the average amount of food consumed per person failed to convey the important fact that 50% of the pair whose chicken intake was being calculated had nothing to eat at all. "The average doesn't say much, no?" Gonzalo said. Its premise exemplified the main conclusion of the report that Gonzalo co-authored, which urged researchers and policymakers to look beyond mathematical averages when evaluating how temperature trends relate to climate change. In the report, Gonzalo and his co-author, Maria Dolores Gadea Rivas of Spain's University of Zaragoza, wrote that although "the climate system functions on a global scale, its effects are experienced locally, resulting in significant regional variability." Advertisement Advertisement To detect variations, they analyzed tens of thousands of daily temperature readings collected across the contiguous U.S., some of which dated back to 1950. The data showed that the effects of climate change on temperature are existent and measurable in a larger swath of the U.S. than previously thought, since a fair amount of climate research quantifies those effects using averages. Also referred to as the arithmetic "mean," an average is calculated by adding together a certain batch of values temperatures recorded in the state of California, for instance and dividing that by the number of values included in that sum. Averages are meant to generally reflect the tendencies of values involved in their calculations. But they don't always provide a complete picture, according to Gonzalo, who says relying on them can be misleading in some instances. "The U.S. is maybe one of the countries with the most heterogeneous climate. And the main message is, if you want to measure heterogeneity, don't use the average," Gonzalo said. "If you pay attention to the average, you can make a mistake." Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalo's new climate report argued that focusing exclusively on average temperatures, and how they have or haven't increased over time, can have serious pitfalls for climate scientists and anyone involved in climate policy. An aerial view of construction of new ski trails and a ski lift on February 8, 2026 in Park City, Utah. / Credit: Mario Tama / Getty Images (Mario Tama / Getty Images) The study found that average temperatures rose in 27 U.S. states between 1950 and 2021, corroborating earlier research. But they also increased significantly in 14 more, which, Gonzalo noted, is a huge difference that could potentially alter the country's approach to addressing the issue. "This is consequential when you try to design more efficient mitigation and adaptation policies," he said. Instead of averages, the report examined the full range of temperatures in a given state, from lowest to highest, and tracked them over time the same way one might consider the full range of incomes in a particular place to accurately understand its wealth distribution and progress. The report brought to light what its authors described as "previously hidden patterns" of warming in every corner of the nation. Advertisement Advertisement Western states, including California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming, saw the largest increases in their highest temperatures, while Central states, like Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska and the Dakotas saw relatively greater jumps in lower temperatures than higher ones over the years, the researchers found. Northern states, across the upper Midwest, Northeast and Northwest, saw similar increases across the whole of their temperature ranges, meaning that cooler temperatures and warmer temperatures rose at comparable paces. All of those trends appear to be accelerating, Gonzalo said, and tailoring public response strategies to realistically fit the scope of the situation at hand could be especially beneficial. The anomalous "warming hole" Advertisement Advertisement The only U.S. states that haven't shown statistically significant signs of warming are Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Kansas and Arkansas, the report said. That list of states in the central and southern U.S. is consistent with a known phenomenon called a "warming hole." It describes a region that hasn't experienced rising temperatures despite climate change. Scientists have long considered it an anomaly. Research has suggested that counterintuitive cooling in that area could be induced by aerosols, changes in land use or the water cycle, which may have intensified in certain places as a response to greenhouse gas emissions, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The NOAA said in 2023 that additional studies should be done to answer some of those questions. Advertisement Advertisement Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn crashes seconds into race Shock over Lindsey Vonn's Olympic crash; Trump calls Hunter Hess a loser for comments on politics More details emerge on whistleblower complaint against Tulsi Gabbard A fourth person has pleaded guilty in a decade-long Ponzi scheme in Toledo, according to the Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. Nancy Rathbun, the spouse of the former Northwest Capital manager, pleaded guilty before her trial, according to a spokesperson. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] News Center 7 previously reported that Doug Miller, a former investment advisor for the company plead guilty in January. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Rathbun pleaded guilty to one count of attempted money laundering, which is a fourth-degree felony. She was indicted in July 2024 as a co-defendant in the Northwest Capital investment scheme. According to the indictment, the defendants persuaded investors to place money into underperforming companies without disclosing the significant impaired status of the companies. Rathbun allegedly assisted in laundering money once the money had been stolen. Her husband, Gary Rathbun, was also indicted and faces 24 felonies. Three additional defendants have previously pleaded guilty in the case: On Jan. 17, James Delverne pleaded guilty to 11 felonies. Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 6, Doug Miller pleaded guilty to six felonies. On May 27, 2025, Richard Scheich pleaded guilty to five felonies. The case is the culmination of a multiyear investigation by the Ohio Department of Commerces Division of Securities and the Attorney Generals Bureau of Criminal Investigation. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Police in northern Indiana started their Saturday morning by diving into an icy lake after a pickup truck reportedly drove onto the ice and sunk to the bottom. According to the St. Joseph County Police Department and the St. Joseph County Fire Territory, around 2:45 a.m. on Feb. 7, officers and firefighters were called to the Chain-O-Lakes Conservation Club, located in the 26000 block of Southport Drive on the west side of South Bend, after a report that a someone drove a vehicle onto the ice. Officials say that vehicle, identified as a pickup truck, broke through the ice and began to sink. Advertisement Advertisement When first responders arrived, they reportedly saw two people walking away from the sinking truck. Unsure whether or not anyone was trapped inside the truck, two officers jumped into the freezing water to help fire crews with their ice rescue. Thankfully, police said, no one was inside the truck as it sank to the bottom of the freezing lake. Following an investigation, police arrested a 52-year-old South Bend man on a preliminary charge of criminal recklessness. (NOTE: 13News has a policy not to name suspects until formal charges are filed by a prosecutor.) The St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office will make the final charging decision. A 69-year-old woman has died following a two-vehicle crash late Feb. 8 near Townsend, Delaware State Police said. The woman, from the Magnolia area, has not yet been publicly identified by police. More: DOC work-release residents raise alarm on program in Sussex, Smyrna area She was a front-seat passenger of a Toyota Sienna that was on northbound Dupont Parkway, preparing to turn left onto Summit Bridge Road about 11:40 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement For reasons still being investigated, police said the Toyota turned left and into the path of a Nissan Altima that was southbound on Dupont Parkway. The Nissan crashed into the Toyota. The woman was taken to a local hospital where police said she was pronounced dead. The Toyota driver, a 43-year-old Dover woman, and her three other passengers were taken to area hospitals where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Nissan driver, a 50-year-old Townsend man, was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. Police ask that anyone who witnessed the crash or have video of the incident to contact investigators at (302) 365-8484. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333. Advertisement Advertisement Send tips or story ideas to Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Fatal crash near Townsend leaves 69-year-old woman dead Maryland correctional authorities have recorded seven inmate deaths over the past two months, a pattern that criminal justice experts say points to deeper challenges inside the states prisons. The number of deaths raises more than individual problems. It is time to look at systemic shortcomings, said Nora Demleitner, a past president of St. Johns College in Annapolis and a longtime criminal justice scholar who has written extensively on sentencing and corrections policy. Staffing shortages and/or overcrowding usually contribute to deaths in custody, often combined with insufficient medical coverage, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services officials say staffing levels and access to services have improved in recent years, even as scrutiny continues over conditions inside Marylands correctional facilities. DPSCS spokesperson Ioannis Varonis said the agencys vacancy rate for correctional officers was nearing 17% in 2023, when Gov. Wes Moore took office and Secretary Carolyn Scruggs began her tenure. Through targeted recruitment, streamlined hiring and retention efforts, the vacancy rate has since dropped to 8.42%. The current figure represents the lowest vacancy rate reported by DPSCS in the past seven years, Varonis said. In 2025, the department also hired more correctional officers than in any other year over the last decade. Department officials say incarcerated individuals have access to services, including treatment from licensed mental health professionals, substance use disorder programs, and counseling, to improve safety and address underlying behavioral and health needs. The agency has also been working with AFSCME, the correctional officers union, on an analysis that reviews current staffing levels and identifies areas where additional posts may be necessary. We now look forward to working with AFSCME on completing that analysis and based on the final analysis changes to staffing levels may be implemented to improve the safety of our staff and the incarcerated population in their care, Varonis said. Advertisement Advertisement Last year, deaths of people in custody at Maryland state prisons reached a four-year high, according to the Governors Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, which tracks the data under the federal Death in Custody Reporting Act. The 68 state prison deaths reported for 2025 include 21 deaths of natural causes, eight homicides and 34 deaths whose classification was pending. The resolution of pending cases could ultimately increase the homicide count. According to the Maryland State Police, 13 state prison inmate deaths last year were investigated by the agencys homicide unit. Three of the seven recent deaths occurred at the Jessup Correctional Institution. On Jan. 19, 33-year-old Joseph Harrell was pronounced dead there following an altercation with another inmate near the prison library, according to Maryland State Police. Authorities said a suspect has been identified, but no charges have been filed. Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 18 at Jessup, 38-year-old Javon Foster was found in his cell and pronounced dead. On Dec. 13, 23-year-old Deon Smith Jr. died under what police described as suspicious circumstances. Three days later, Wenhui Sun, 36, died at the Maryland Correctional Training Center in Hagerstown following what investigators said was an altercation involving three inmates. At North Branch Correctional Institution in Cumberland, two inmates died: 32-year-old Jordan Polston on Dec. 23 and 51-year-old Larry Horton on Jan. 10. Data obtained from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner show that the cases involving Foster and Sun remain pending, meaning the cause and manner of death have not yet been determined. Four other deaths Harrell, Smith, Polston and Horton are listed as homicides and part of ongoing investigations. Staffing issues Demleitner said staffing shortages can create a cycle of poor conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Staff shortages tend to lead people to resign, which makes the situation worse for remaining staff, she said. There isnt the time to train and educate staff or for them to spend with prisoners to understand the dynamics and diffuse them. DPSCS data shows the agency employs about 9,220 people and oversees roughly 17,875 incarcerated individuals, making it one of the states largest agencies. About 8% of its workforce left in 2024, and nearly 500 correctional officer positions were vacant as of mid-2025, according to a government-funded Safe Inside project report. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Trade, the union for corrections officers, could not be reached for comment. Jarrod Smith, a national trial attorney with the criminal defense firm Smith & Vinson, said supervision gaps often play a central role in inmate violence. Advertisement Advertisement The biggest issue seems to come from staffing and supervision problems, Smith said. We are seeing a direct correlation between personnel shortages and the rise in violence. High-risk areas like libraries and dining halls need a consistent, trained presence at all times. Tools for reducing violence Demleitner said models such as Restoring Promise, a Vera Institute initiative that addressed harmful prison practices and policies through collaborative research, narrative change, and technical assistance, which emphasize communication and mediation over strict punishment, have shown promise in lowering incidents in some correctional systems. When you create a culture of communication rather than just lock and key, violence drops, she said. These programs train both staff and inmates to mediate disputes before they escalate to physical confrontation. She added that expanding access to cognitive behavioral therapy could help inmates develop de-escalation skills, though those programs are often among the first to be cut when budgets or staffing levels are strained. Advertisement Advertisement Separating inmates more effectively, rather than relying on solitary confinement, is another area experts say needs improvement. Separation is a double-edged sword, Demleitner said. We dont need more solitary confinement; we need smarter classification. We need data-driven systems that separate security threat groups and place predatory individuals away from vulnerable ones. Varonis said the DPSCS does not use what it defines as solitary confinement, a form of extreme isolation historically marked by minimal human contact and movement. Instead, the department uses restrictive housing, in which incarcerated individuals are housed with another person whenever possible and are permitted out-of-cell time and activities, though those privileges may be limited. Demleitner noted that the first days of incarceration are often the most dangerous, making intake screening critical for identifying past conflicts, gang affiliations and mental health crises. Advertisement Advertisement There is always a lead-up to violence, Demleitner said. Shifting group dynamics, sudden clumping of certain groups or an unusual quiet can signal that something is being planned. Medical issues On the medical side, particularly in mental health care, Demleitner said, limited funding can reduce access to diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk that physical harm or psychological distress goes unnoticed. A spokesperson for the DPSCS said incarcerated individuals have access to licensed mental health professionals, substance use disorder treatment, counseling services, and peer-support and self-help programs throughout the states correctional system. The department also offers rehabilitation, education and reentry-focused programs, including anger-management, alternatives to violence and victim impact counseling, aimed at addressing behaviors and conditions that can contribute to harm inside facilities. Despite several violent incidents, not all inmate deaths stemmed from assaults. George Kenney, 69, died Dec. 27 at the Harford County Detention Center after repeated hospital visits related to cardiac issues, according to the Harford County Sheriffs Office. Advertisement Advertisement Last month, the ACLU and NAACP filed a lawsuit, alleging a deadly pattern of abuse at the Harford County Detention Center, which the organizations say has led to more than 20 suicide attempts since 2019. The suit filed against Sheriff Jeff Gahler, Warden Daniel Galbraith, Harford County and the state says there is deficient screening and treatment at the detention center, excessive reliance on isolation, deficient monitoring of those identified as suicidal or needing medical attention, and punishment in response to those who are suicidal. Officials with Harford County declined to comment on the pending, active litigation. Next steps Maryland lawmakers passed legislation in 2025 requiring state officials to notify elected leaders when an inmate dies in custody, a move aimed at increasing transparency. Advocates, however, say stronger oversight is needed. There needs to be a correctional ombudsman with the power to conduct unannounced inspections and hold administrators accountable for safety lapses before they become fatal, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Demleitner said the number of in-custody deaths underscores the need for sustained investment, rather than short-term fixes. Without enough trained staff and adequate medical and mental health coverage, she said, the system remains reactive instead of preventative and thats when tragedies continue to happen. _____ (KRON) Five people in downtown San Jose were injured in a shooting that occurred Sunday night, according to the San Jose Police Department. Police responded at 10:47 p.m. to the area of North Market Street and West Santa Clara Street on the report of a shooting following a physical altercation. Officers found multiple victims with gunshot wounds, who were rushed to local hospitals. Two victims in the shooting self-transported to the hospital, while three others were transported by ambulance. In an update just before noon on Monday, SJPD said the victims were four men and one woman. It is unknown if the victims know each other. All five are expected to survive. (Citizen) No arrest has been announced in the quintuple shooting. Police believe that there was one shooter. Advertisement Advertisement The incident follows a separate shooting that killed two men just blocks away in downtown San Jose early Sunday. Police responded to that shooting around 2:20 a.m. in the 100 block of Paseo de San Antonio. Both men were pronounced deceased at the scene. Massachusetts Guy went viral for video about loving the Bay Area. Then his rental car got stolen A suspect in the early shooting was arrested away from the scene later Sunday, SJPD said in an update on Monday. Authorities believe that there was an altercation before the shooting occurred. The suspected shooter was not identified as of Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement SJPD called each shooting an isolated incident. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. On Monday, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that an 18th person in New York City has died as a result of the cold weather. Autopsies have shown that at least five of the victims died of hypothermia from exposure to the cold and intoxication was a contributing factor in at least four of the deaths. "We have made approximately 1400 placements into shelters and safe havens. We have involuntarily transported 33 New Yorkers who were deemed to be a danger to themselves or to others," Mamdani said. Advertisement Advertisement Despite the deaths, the Mayor's response likely saved many more lives, according to David Giffen of the Coalition for the Homeless. "I've never seen a mayoral administration address a cold snap like this with the kind of creativity and level of effort that we've seen over the past two weeks, and I'm honestly impressed with what they have done," Giffen said. Giffen credits stepped-up outreach and a vast network of warming centers in schools and buses. But others say the city should be doing more. "How could you look at her and say the city is doing well? I mean, you say, 'Oh, that's okay, that's all right, stay out here and freeze to death.' I'm sorry," Chelsea resident Kathy Malichio said. Advertisement Advertisement Forcing people indoors is a last resort. And many are resistant to it. "I've got to stay. I've got to stay out here with the public," one homeless woman said. Medics arrived in Chelsea after Eyewitness News called 311, but they were turned away when the woman told them she wanted to be left alone and on her own on the city's streets. "We really look forward to seeing how the administration will apply this kind of energy and creativity that they used when confronting the cold snap to addressing the underlying problems that put people in danger in the first place," Giffen said. Advertisement Advertisement Across New York City, subzero winter weather is still impacting different aspects of city life, from blocked parking spots, sidewalks, and Citi Bike stations to increased social services. Some Tri-State school districts have announced delayed openings for today because of the weather. This week, cleanup continues as the weather starts to warm up a little. The city's sanitation department keeps working to clear and melt accumulated snow and ice around the city, which hasn't melted due to unusually cold temperatures. Alternate side parking rules are suspended until Tuesday. Citi Bike believes "the vast majority" of its docking stations will be dug out by the end of the day. Advertisement Advertisement Citi Bikes were buried by snow plowed into their docking stations following the snow. Less than a week ago, only about 500 of the 2,200 active stations, just 22%, were cleaned out. Despite warnings from officials to stay inside because of the subzero wind chill and potential frostbite, some still prefer to ride a bike: "I biked all the way back just to have a station where I could put it back in, and then I didn't bike for a few days because it just wasn't worth the trouble... I'm the kind of guy who likes to take chances, take some risks, so I'm ok with it," said Citi Bike rider Nirmesh. Mayor Mamdani visited a warming center over the weekend, encouraging vulnerable New Yorkers to go to one if they need to. Advertisement Advertisement "This is all the work that city workers are doing in tandem with more than 550 outreach workers who were out there at all times of day to bring homeless New Yorkers inside, to ensure that we're connecting them with safe havens, with shelters, even with hotel rooms, to ensure that no one is outside," Mamdani said. Residents are urged to call 311 if they see someone in need. ---------- * Get Eyewitness News Delivered * More Manhattan news * Send us a news tip * Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts * Follow us on YouTube Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply. Troup County Sheriffs Office says an inmate that escaped Sunday morning has been taken into custody in metro Atlanta. Christian Joel-Marcos Cortez was taken into custody Sunday night by the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office. The capture comes after investigators found out that Cortez may have traveled to Acworth. Our appreciation to the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office, the LaGrange Police Department, Spalding County Sheriffs Office, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Department of Corrections and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations for their assistance in this case, Troup County Sheriffs Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Cortez, 20, was last seen at 4:42 a.m. Sunday. Jail staff discovered he was missing at 9:30 a.m. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Investigators determined that Cortez walked out of an outer door and climbed an exterior fence to leave the jail property. Hes charged with child molestation and has been in custody without bond since June 2025, according to jail records. A deputy with the Troup County Sheriffs Office is currently on the way to Cherokee County to take custody of Cortez. The internal investigation is ongoing to determine how Cortez was able to make it out of the jail facility. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DUBAI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Iran could agree to dilute its most highly enriched uranium in exchange for all financial sanctions being lifted, its atomic chief said on Monday, one of the most direct indications so far of its position at talks with Washington. U.S. and Iranian diplomats held talks through Omani mediators in Oman last week in an effort to revive diplomacy, after U.S. President Donald Trump positioned a naval flotilla in the region raising fears of new military action. The talks follow a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations in Iran last month when thousands of people were killed, the biggest domestic unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Advertisement Advertisement Trump joined an Israeli bombing campaign last year and hit Iranian nuclear sites. He also threatened last month to intervene militarily during the protests but ultimately held off. Washington has demanded Iran relinquish its stockpile - estimated last year by the UN nuclear agency at more than 440 kg - of uranium enriched to up to 60% fissile purity, a small step away from the 90% that is considered weapons grade. The head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, Mohammad Eslami, said on Monday: "The possibility of diluting 60% enriched uranium ... depends on whether, in return, all sanctions are lifted or not". Eslami, whose remarks were reported by Iran's ISNA news agency, said however that another proposal, sending Iran's highly enriched uranium abroad to another country, had not been discussed at the talks with U.S. officials. Advertisement Advertisement KHAMENEI ADVISER TO VISIT OMAN Ali Larijani, a close adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and secretary of its national security council, will visit Oman on Tuesday following the U.S.-Iranian talks there, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. "During this trip, (Larijani) will meet with high-ranking officials of the Sultanate of Oman and discuss the latest regional and international developments and bilateral cooperation at various levels," Tasnim said. The date and venue of the next round of talks have yet to be announced. Irans President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday that a new round of talks would be "an appropriate opportunity for a fair and balanced resolution of this case," and that a desired outcome could be reached if the U.S. avoids maximalist positions and respects its commitments. Advertisement Advertisement Iran would continue to demand the lifting of sanctions and insist on its nuclear rights including enrichment, he said. Iran and the U.S. held five rounds of talks last year on curbing Tehran's nuclear programme, with the process breaking down mainly due to disputes over uranium enrichment inside Iran. Since Trump struck Iran's facilities, Tehran has said it has halted enrichment activity. It has always said its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes. The United States wants to include Iran's ballistic missile arsenal in negotiations, but Tehran has ruled this out. In a televised statement aired on Monday, Khamenei called on Iranians to participate in the coming anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. Advertisement Advertisement "The presence of the people in the march and their expression of loyalty to the Islamic Republic will cause the enemy to stop coveting Iran," Khamenei said. (Reporting by Dubai Newsroom; Editing by Alex Richardson, Toby Chopra, Mark Heinrich, Peter Graff) Protesters gathered in the halls of the Iowa State Capitol chanted "shame" as lawmakers left the Feb. 9, 2026 subcommittee meeting approving a bill opponents say would legalize harmful "conversion therapy" practices for transgender children. (Photo by Robin Opsahl/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Advocates and LGBTQ Iowans said conversion therapy an overwhelmingly disavowed practice to try to change an LGBTQ+ persons gender or sexual orientation would be legalized by a bill moved forward Monday by an Iowa House subcommittee. House Study Bill 669 would amend Iowa Code to exempt issues related to a parents response to their childs gender dysphoria from child abuse and child endangerment definitions in addition to adding these carveouts in state law about considerations of foster parent licensing, adoptive parents and custody during divorce proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement The bill states that a parent cannot be deemed abusive or exempt from consideration based on their intent to raise, guide or instruct a child in a manner consistent with the childs sex. The bill lays out several specific actions that cannot be defined as abuse or preclude individuals from parental arrangements, such as refusing to refer to a child by a name or pronouns that differ from their assigned sex at birth, or not consenting to a child receiving gender-affirming medical care. But most opponents to the measure said their main concern was the inclusion of language that seeking and consenting to a mental health service for a child for the purpose of helping the child live a life consistent with the childs sex is not child abuse, or a reason why a person should not be considered as an adoptive or foster parent. Many of the speakers at the meeting said this language would allow parents to pursue conversion therapy for their child, if that child expresses gender dysphoria or a gender identity that does not align with their sex at birth. Conversion therapy refers to discredited psychological, behavioral or physical treatments intended to alter a persons gender identity or sexual orientation, targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. Many major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics have issued statements against conversion therapy, saying the assumption that gender identity and sexual orientation can or should be changed is not supported by medical and scientific evidence. Instead, groups like the AMA have stated these interventions often lead to worse mental health outcomes and trauma for the individuals subjected to these practices. Advertisement Advertisement Keenan Crow with One Iowa, said conversion therapy is torture. Since the bill was publicized, Crow said One Iowa, an LGBTQ advocacy organization, has received countless emails from Iowans detailing their horrific experiences with conversion therapy, which include institutionalization and electroshock therapy. I dont care what kind of language we couch this in, Crow said. I dont care what the motivation is. I just know that this is a procedure noted by every major medical and mental health organization to cause increased rates of depression, anxiety, homelessness and suicide, and that is horrific. I cant believe we are even having this conversation, and I ask you to vote no, and rather than enabling this kind of torture, bring a bill to restrict its use across this state. According to the nonprofit Movement Advancement Project, 23 states and the District of Columbia currently have bans on conversion therapy for minors. But supporters of the bill said the measure was necessary to ensure Christian parents were not discriminated against or labeled as abusers for raising their children in accordance with their sincerely held beliefs. Chuck Hurley with the Family Leader said the bill was needed because Iowa would face a larger shortage of prospective foster and adoptive parents if these individuals are required to affirm a childs gender identity, including if they want to transition. Advertisement Advertisement My wife and I have had about 15 foster kids, 10 of which were long term, six months to 13 years, weve adopted a couple of special needs kids, Hurley said. And Im not saying that were all that. Im just saying that we would not have been foster parents if Iowa would have had these requirements. And to diminish the pool of prospective foster parents, when theres 3,700 kids in foster care, is the exact opposite of what we want to do as a state. As the meeting progressed, protesters demonstrated in the halls of the Iowa Capitol shouting love not hate and trans rights are human rights. Rep. Steve Holt, R-Denison, said opponents to the measure were attempting to use a hecklers veto, by demonstrating in order to try to drown out those who disagree with them. The fact of the matter is, I will do my job and stand for truth, and this legislation absolutely stands for truth, so I will be signing on to advance it to the full committee, Holt said. Rep. Jon Dunwell, R-Newton, also signed off on the measure, saying it protects the rights of parents who believe that gender is determined by biology. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Aime Wichtendahl, D-Hiawatha, said the measure was another attempt from Republicans to target transgender Iowans, referencing the 2025 law removing gender identity from protections under the state Civil Rights Act. Wichtendahl, the first transgender Iowan elected to the Legislature, said while Republicans argue the measure is needed to protect parental rights, there are no provisions currently in Iowa law requiring a parents consent to their child receiving gender-affirming treatment. Under current Iowa law, no parent is required to affirm their childrens gender identity or support of treatment plan for the same, but parental rights are being used as a cudgel to enable harm upon children in the name of making them straight, she said. The measure will next be considered by the full House Judiciary Committee. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and minister of foreign affairs, will attend and address the opening session of the First APEC 2026 Senior Officials' Meeting in Guangzhou on Feb. 10, a foreign ministry spokesperson announced here on Monday. Feb. 7Local lawmakers are pursuing regulation of artificial intelligence, but they may be hindered by an executive order from President Donald Trump and AI companies' unwillingness to cooperate. "The instinct is correct to protect vulnerable people, whether they be students or adults, but it's difficult given the size of companies and the political landscape," said Hartselle AI consultant Randy Sparkman. Rep. Parker Moore, R-Hartselle, Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, and Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, are among a group of state legislators that have filed bills related to AI this legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Moore, who serves on a national AI policy task force, carries two AI bills that a group of seven other representatives have joined as cosponsors. House Bill 324 requires age verification of AI users and prevents minors from accessing chatbots with "human-like features," along with establishing other safety and privacy guardrails. House Bill 325 requires companies to disclose when a customer is communicating with a chatbot rather than a real person. AI and minors "My bill (HB324) sets some guardrails and an age verification process that will try to protect some of them because, unfortunately, we're seeing a rise in suicides around the country because of these false relationships that they think they're building," Moore said. Advertisement Advertisement In August, Stanford Medicine reported the results of an AI study led by Common Sense Media and assisted by Brainstorm: "The Stanford Lab for Mental Health Evaluation." The study found that when posing as teenagers talking with chatbots, investigators could easily draw out encouraging responses about sex, self-harm, violence and drug use. Shortly before the study was published, California 16-year-old Adam Raine's parents filed a lawsuit against OpenAI's ChatGPT after their son died from suicide. The chatbot had validated ideations of suicide, the lawsuit alleged. HB324 would require AI companies to classify all users as either minors or adults after verifying their age and offer a version of their platform without "human-like features" for minors. The bill includes a description of such features, including behavior that suggests the chatbot has emotions, sentience or desire, as well as offering excessive praise and encouraging the user to return for companionship. The companies would also need to detect and mitigate emergency situations, such as expressed intent to harm oneself or another person, and report it. "These kids are building this false sense of relationship and they're becoming emotionally unstable because these companion bots are filling them up with a lot of stuff that's feeding off of their emotions," Moore said. "... It was hard for me growing up having interactions with fellow peers, let alone having a quote 'companion bot' that tells me everything I want to hear so that I feel good." Advertisement Advertisement Sparkman teaches a weekly introductory AI class at Hartselle High School. He has spoken with school counselors and high school students about how teenagers are using AI. "Parts of their peer group do use these as companions, interact with them as characters and talk to them as if they were friends," Sparkman said, "but, anecdotally, what I see is a smaller percentage than what I see reported in the press." Still, he said vulnerable minors and lonely adults can misuse companion bots. He doesn't believe, however, that the businesses behind popular chatbots would be willing to cooperate. "These companies OpenAI, Anthropic and Google are spending so much money to build these systems and create these big data centers and service the demand that's occurring," Sparkman said. "They have to find ways to make money to cover that cost, so they're going to be incentivized to create products that engage. They're going to build for engagement to make kids want to use these tools." Advertisement Advertisement He compared trying to regulate massive AI companies to Don Quixote trying to fight windmills, which the character believes to be giants he could reasonably battle. "They may not be responsive even to a state law, and at the same time, then you have the White House, who is really discouraging states from creating local legislation," Sparkman said. Moore mirrored his bill off a bipartisan bill from U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., that Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., is cosponsoring, the Guidelines for User Age-verification and Responsible Dialogue Act of 2025, or GUARD Act. In addition to age-related restrictions, both the state and federal bills would allow the attorney general to bring civil actions for enforcement purposes. In October, Britt held a press conference during which parents shared stories of their child's negative experience with AI chatbots. Advertisement Advertisement "You heard it from the parents: If AI can be this brilliant, we certainly can put the proper guardrails in place to where they are not talking to our children about sexual interplay, where they are not talking to our children about illicit drug abuse, where they are not talking to our children about self-harm," Britt said. "This is not hard. And if the United States Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives can't come together on this, what can we come together on?" Other vulnerable populations Moore also carries HB325. Under it, failures to notify customers when they're speaking with an AI chatbot rather than a real person would qualify as unfair or deceptive trade practices. It would apply to text or voice conversations. The bill targets AI scam calls, in particular, according to Moore. Advertisement Advertisement "We're getting now to where AI can trigger certain people's voices," he said. "... If it's an AI bot that is portraying a licensed professional entity, they will have to be disclosed that you're actually communicating with a chatbot and not a licensed human professional." This could look like a company imitating a person's doctor, attorney or financial advisor, according to Moore. HB325 reflects separate legislation from Britt that aims to protect older adults from financial fraud scams. "The committee recently released our annual Fraud Report, which details the alarming rise in scams, particularly sophisticated schemes that utilize artificial intelligence," said Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., one of the bill's cosponsors. "In 2024 alone, frauds and scams cost seniors over $4.8 billion, with those aged 50 59 losing an additional $2.5 billion." Advertisement Advertisement Federal policy Although state AI bills are popular this session, lawmakers may run into obstacles enacting them due to a Dec. 11 executive order from Trump. In the order, he said that the U.S. is engaged in a race over the AI technological advancements and winning means removing "cumbersome regulation." "First, State-by-State regulation by definition creates a patchwork of 50 different regulatory regimes that makes compliance more challenging, particularly for start-ups," Trump said in the order. He continued that certain state laws impose ideological bias on chatbots that can lead to false results. Additionally, state laws can encroach on interstate commerce, Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement States with AI laws that are found to conflict with the national AI policy can prevent that state from receiving remaining funding under the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program. The funding can be used to provide high-speed internet to unserved or underserved locations. Alabama received $1.4 billion in funding in 2024. Moore said the national AI task force of state legislators has discussed creating similar AI bills across the country. "That's one of the things that we're looking to identify is, how can we craft legislation that mirrors each other in all of our states so that it kind of gives everybody a buffer, if you will, until the federal government can pass some kind of national legislation that gives us guidance?" Moore said. A federal policy would not replace state laws related to child safety protections, such as HB324, according to the Dec. 11 executive order. Advertisement Advertisement The Alabama Legislature has created an AI study commission to create consistent definitions, Moore said. The commission would also look at potentially consolidating the various AI bills into more comprehensive bills. "What we're looking to do is try to evaluate all of these AI bills that have been dropped and kind of comb through those and identify repetitive language, conflicting language," Moore said. Sparkman recommends policy that focuses on educating people about the technology and avoids references to specific programs. Such laws would remain applicable as advancements are made, he said. "I'll applaud Parker Moore in his legislation because that's what he does in his legislation," Sparkman said. "He doesn't talk about tools; he talks about impacts and outcomes. That's the way to craft the legislation, I think to not ban AI, but to protect from negative outcomes, like fraud or unhealthy attachment." He believes AI literacy should start within school systems, but he encourages schools to engage parents in addition to students. Other resources could be made available at senior centers or organizations with public resources, like the North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments or Community Action Partnership of North Alabama, Sparkman said. GraciAnn.Goodin@DecaturDaily.com or 256-340-2437 AI chatbots give inaccurate and inconsistent medical advice that could present risks to users, according to a study from the University of Oxford. The research found people using AI for healthcare advice were given a mix of good and bad responses, making it hard to identify what advice they should trust. In November 2025, polling by Mental Health UK found more than one in three UK residents now use AI to support their mental health or wellbeing. Advertisement Advertisement Dr Rebecca Payne, lead medical practitioner on the study, said it could be "dangerous" for people to ask chatbots about their symptoms. Researchers gave 1,300 people a scenario, such as having a severe headache or being a new mother who felt constantly exhausted. They were split into two groups, with one using AI to help them figure out what they might have and decide what to do next. The researchers then evaluated whether people correctly identified what might be wrong, and if they should see a GP or go to A&E. They said the people who used AI often did not know what to ask, and were given a variety of different answers depending on how they worded their question. Advertisement Advertisement The chatbot responded with a mixture of information, and people found it hard to distinguish between what was useful and what was not. Dr Adam Mahdi, senior author on the study, told the BBC while AI was able to give medical information, people "struggle to get useful advice from it". "People share information gradually", he said. "They leave things out, they don't mention everything. So, in our study, when the AI listed three possible conditions, people were left to guess which of those can fit. "This is exactly when things would fall apart." Lead author Andrew Bean said the analysis illustrated how interacting with humans poses a challenge "even for top" AI models. Advertisement Advertisement "We hope this work will contribute to the development of safer and more useful AI systems," he said. Dr Amber W. Childs, an associate professor of psychiatry in the Yale School of Medicine, said since chatbots are trained on current medical practices and data, they also face a further problem of repeating biases which have been "baked into medical practices for decades". "A chatbot is only as good a diagnostician as seasoned clinicians are, which is not perfect either," she said. Meanwhile Dr Bertalan Mesko, editor of The Medical Futurist, which predicts tech trends in healthcare, said there were developments coming in the space. Advertisement Advertisement He said two major AI developers, OpenAI and Anthropic, had released health-dedicated versions of their general chatbot recently, which he believed would "definitely yield different results in a similar study". He said the goal should be to "to keep on improving" the tech, especially "health-related versions, with clear national regulations, regulatory guardrails and medical guidelines". [BBC] Sign up for our Tech Decoded newsletter to follow the world's top tech stories and trends. Outside the UK? Sign up here. Air Canada has suspended service to Cuba because of a shortage of aviation fuel on the Caribbean island. The move was effective as of Monday, though the airline said it would bring some 3,000 customers already in Cuba back home in the coming days. Aviation fuel will not be commercially available at the island's airports beginning on Tuesday until at least 11 March, according to a Notice to Aviation (NOTAM). Advertisement Advertisement Cuba is dependent on Venezuela for much of its jet fuel, but that has been sparsely available since mid-December when the US blocked the South American country's exports. Air Canada operates about 16 weekly flights to four Cuban destinations from Toronto and Montreal that will be on hold during the fuel shortage, the airline said. The airline said it would monitor the situation to determine when to restart Cuba service. WestJet and Air Transat - two other Canadian airlines - have not yet suspended flights. The move comes amid increasingly dire circumstances on the island and continued threats from US President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement The country has faced rolling blackouts, leaving Cubans struggling to cope without reliable electricity. The confiscation of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers by the Trump administration has started to worsen the fuel and electricity crisis in Cuba. Trump has also threatened tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, saying in part that Cuba "will be falling pretty soon" as Venezuela no longer sends oil or money to its long-time ally. The tariffs could target any country "that directly or indirectly sells or otherwise provides any oil to Cuba". Cuba Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla recently said that the Caribbean nation had "the absolute right to import fuel" from any willing exporter "without interference or subordination to the unilateral coercive measures of the United States". This story has been updated with additional information. The city of Akron is taking a stance against state lawmakers' efforts to require local assistance with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Four bills proposed by Ohio legislators would compel police, schools, hospitals and other local resources to assist ICE operations and data collection. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Ward 1 Akron City Council Member Fran Wilson introduced a resolution at the Feb. 9 City Council meeting opposing the bills. Advertisement Advertisement The council voted 12-0 to approve the resolution at its Feb. 9 regular meeting. At-Large Councilwoman Linda Omobien was absent. Akron is and will continue to be a welcoming community for all, including our immigrant and refugee populations," Malik said Feb. 9 in a news release. "These neighbors are an integral part of the fabric of our community, and they make our community stronger in many ways, including strengthening our economy. As our nation has seen several large deployments of ICE agents to American cities, my administration is deeply concerned about the way in which these deployments have occurred, the loss of life which has resulted, and the fear and uncertainty it has generated in our own community." Wilson called the proposed measures an "overreach." "We are seeing lots of bills in our state House and state Senate come up stoking fear and intimidation, and ultimately making Ohioans lives harder," Wilson said. Advertisement Advertisement At-Large Councilman Jeff Fusco said the bills were a violation of Akron's home rule, "dictating to us how we operate and utilizing our resources." "This is the last thing we need," he said, "in Akron, in Ohio, in the United States." According to the United States census bureau, foreign-born people made up 7% of Akron's population from 2020 to 2024. Malik said the city administration cannot obstruct ICE operations but also should not be forced to provide aid "to basically assist them in carrying out their operations." He said the city is uninterested in being involved in a Minneapolis-style surge. Advertisement Advertisement ICE operations elsewhere in Ohio is making Akron's immigrant population uneasy, Malik said. "What this does is overreaches and forces local agencies to be effectively arms of the federal government in terms of administering immigration policy," said Malik. "We don't have a role in administering civil immigration law. These are civil violations, not criminal violations, and our focus is on with the resources and staffing that we have on public safety and enforcing criminal violations. We think each of these four bills is an overreach." What state legislation is pending regarding immigration enforcement? Here are the bills in question: House Bill 26: The Protecting Ohio Communities Act would mandate that state and local employees comply with federal requests regarding homeland security and immigration enforcement, while prohibiting municipal corporations from implementing policies that would obstruct such compliance. House Bill 42: This bill requires state agencies and entities, including schools, to collect and report data concerning the citizenship or immigration status of people they serve. House Bill 281: This bill seeks to require licensed hospitals and licensed psychiatric hospitals to permit law enforcement to enter hospital facilities and enforce immigration laws. Senate Bill 172: This bill would require state and local officials to permit the arrest or detention of people suspected of being undocumented, regardless of circumstances. How would Akron respond if ICE came to town? Public Safety Committee member and Ward 5 Councilman Johnnie Hannah asked Malik on Feb. 9 how Akron would respond if ICE were to descend on the city. Advertisement Advertisement Malik said the administration wouldn't stand in ICE's way, but "at the same time, we do not have to marshal our resources to basically assist them in carrying out their operations." He said while an ICE deployment in Akron is currently hypothetical, the city has been planning for the possibility. Cities experiencing ICE operations have seen massive protests, he said. Akron has seen anti-ICE protests too, but they haven't been nearly as large. Since 2025, Akron has been revising its crowd management policy in line with a legal settlement involving the Akron Police Department's handling of a protest on Copley Road in 2023. "As part of that, I think we have done a lot of work to make sure that we can safeguard people's rights to protest peacefully, while also doing what we can to make sure that situations don't turn violent," Malik said. Violence erupts when protesters and counter-protesters, or protesters and ICE, are too close to each other, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Malik said the Akron Police Department developed a "dialogue team based on a program in Columbus" where officers foster open communication between members of protest groups to ensure protests happen "effectively and safely." He said an example would be officers informing protesters about what behavior is permitted at protests. ICE often operates in municipalities without letting officials know they're coming or how they're operating, Malik said, though Akron has "very close partnerships" and seamless communication with its state and federal partners. "To the extent this could happen, we would seek to work with our federal representatives and others to try to understand and have greater communication," Malik said. "I think one of the things that I think there's some bipartisan consensus around, especially after the awful killings in Minnesota, is that there should be at the very base level be some communication, and basic things like insisting that masks are not worn and that body-worn cameras are worn, and things like that." Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron officials say state should not force communities to assist ICE Snow falls around the Alaska State Capitol in Juneau on Dec. 31, 2025. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon) At the Alaska Beacon, were constantly trying to figure out where we should put our attention. Theres always more news than there are people to report it. Every Thursday, the Alaska Legislature publishes its committee schedule for the coming week. Public notices alert us to meetings and events. The governors office occasionally lets us know ahead of time that somethings coming down the pike, too. Advertisement Advertisement Heres what we know about for the coming week. If you know of something thats coming up that you should think we should pay attention to, email us at info@alaskabeacon.com. We cant cover everything on this list, but were interested in them and we think you should know about them in case youre interested in them, too. This list is ripped from our notebooks, and it is likely to change over the course of the week. Well update it when we can. Are you trying to keep track of when to testify on a bill? The Legislature has a website for that. Monday, Feb. 9 Public comment period ends on winter roads in ANWR. 9 a.m. State pharmacy board meets to consider regulation cuts 9 a.m. Senate Finance gets an overview of state pension funding levels 10 a.m. Marijuana control board holds special meeting to talk about regulation cuts House/Senate floor sessions expected to begin around 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m. Department of Law gives an update on its statehood defense program to the House Law budget subcommittee 1:30 p.m. Will Alaskas Romeo and Juliet law allowing a loophole in the age of consent go away? Senate Judiciary will talk about House Bill 101. 3:30 p.m. Senate Resources discusses LNG import facilities 5 p.m. Dental examiners board meets to consider regulation cuts Tuesday Feb. 10 North Pacific Fishery Management Council meets in Anchorage. Advertisement Advertisement Southeast Conference mid-session summit and transportation symposium opens in Juneau 5:30 a.m. U.S. Senates Indian Affairs committee holds a hearing on the 8(a) federal contracting program 8 a.m. What do Alaskas food supply chains look like in rural Alaska? House Tribal Affairs Committee takes a look. 8 a.m. State forestry board meeting 9 a.m. The state prison system overspent its budget last year. How does it look this year? The Department of Corrections budget subcommittee takes a look. 10 a.m. Big game commercial services board meets to consider regulation cuts 12 p.m. AIDEA gives an update on its budget to the House commerce budget subcommittee 1:30 p.m. When should Alaskans run away from a wildfire? A bill in Senate Community and Regional Affairs suggests a standardized disaster danger scale. 1:30 p.m. Continued update on the state ferry systems status in House Transportation 3:15 p.m. Police mask ban bill gets first hearing in House State Affairs Committee 3:30 p.m. State prison system gives an update on deaths in custody and lawsuits against the Department of Corrections, in Senate State Affairs 5 p.m. Dental examiners board meets to consider regulation cuts Wednesday, Feb. 11 North Pacific Fishery Management Council meets in Anchorage. 8 a.m. House Education Committee gets an update on Mount Edgecumbe High School, the states lone remaining boarding school 9 a.m. State veterinarian board meets to discuss regulation cuts House/Senate floor sessions expected to begin around 10:30 a.m. 11 a.m. State of the Judiciary address by Chief Justice Susan Carney 1 p.m. Hilcorp gives an update on its North Slope work in House Resources, and the committee talks about a bill that would subsidize some Cook Inlet gas production 1:30 p.m. Senate Finance talks about a constitutional amendment that would lower the veto override threshold 1:30 p.m. What does Alaskas agriculture industry look like? Senate Labor and Commerce takes up the topic. 3:30 p.m. Senate Education Committee hears a status report on Mount Edgecumbe 3:30 p.m. Hows the Alaska Railroad doing? Its CEO gives an update to the Senate Resources Committee 5:15 p.m. The Legislative Council meets behind closed doors to discuss the costs of the Legislatures lawsuit against the governors executive order that attempted to create a cabinet-level Department of Agriculture 5:30 p.m. The Joint Armed Services Committee talks about the 11th Airbornes ready to deploy orders to Minnesota Thursday, Feb. 12 North Pacific Fishery Management Council meets in Anchorage. Advertisement Advertisement 9 a.m. State pharmacy board meeting 11 a.m. Alaska Supreme Court oral argument in Triem v Alaska Judicial Council 12 p.m. State real estate appraisers board meeting about cutting regulations 1:30 p.m. House Finance takes a look at the next section of the governors fiscal plan bill 1:30 p.m. The Senate Transportation committee hears an update on the controversial Cascade Point ferry terminal 3:30 p.m. What is this big federal health care transformation program? The House and Senate health committees meet together to learn more Friday, Feb. 13 9 a.m. State psychologist board meeting House/Senate floor sessions expected to begin around 10:30 a.m. 1 p.m. Should there be a statewide spay and neuter program for animals? House Resources takes public testimony on the idea. 1:30 p.m. House Finance does some work on the supplemental budget bill Saturday, Feb. 14 Valentines Day! SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE NEED TO KNOW Alaskan Dream Cruises abruptly ceased business operations for good, refunding all guests with existing reservations Thank you for the lasting relationships we've built and for allowing us to be a part of your Alaskan stories, the company said The small-ship cruise line operated four ships that each held between 40 and 80 passengers Alaskan Dream Cruises has sailed its final voyage. On Wednesday, Feb. 4, the small-ship cruise line that once offered 5- to 10-night sailings to Southeast Alaska announced that it would be shutting down for good. Advertisement Advertisement Since 2011, Alaskan Dream Cruises has had the privilege of sharing the wonders of Alaska and the richness of our Alaska Native heritage with incredible guests from across the globe, the cruise line began in a statement on Facebook. It has been an equal honor to work alongside extraordinary communities, partners, and crew. Effective immediately, Alaskan Dream Cruises has ceased business operations and will no longer be operating future sailings, the statement continued. We are deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in us over the past 15 years. Thank you for the lasting relationships we've built and for allowing us to be a part of your Alaskan stories. A cruise ship in Alaska Getty Since the company primarily sails during Alaskas cruise season from May through September, with each of its four ships hosting between 40 and 80 passengers, Alaska Dream Cruise had no active trips at the time of the announcement and shared that refunds would be provided to all guests with existing reservations. Jamey Cagle, one of the owners of Alaskan Dream Cruises, told the Daily Sitka Sentinel that the decision to cease operations was essential and necessary. Advertisement Advertisement After careful evaluation of our long-term objectives, we determined that concluding cruise operations allows us to responsibly focus our resources where they will have the greatest impact, he said, per The Independent. We have had the privilege of sharing the wonders of Alaska and the richness of our Alaska Native heritage with incredible passengers from across the globe. It has been an honor to work alongside extraordinary communities, partners and crew throughout this journey. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Snow-capped mountains in Alaska Getty While the cruise line will no longer guide passengers through Alaskas intimate waterways, its parent company, Allen Marine Tours, will continue to offer premiere excursions that respects and preserves Alaskas natural beauty and cultural heritage, according to its website. Were really proud that we were a homegrown and Indigenous-owned line right here in Sitka, Zak Kirkpatrick, a spokesperson for Allen Marine, told KTOO. And that grew into world class cruises and winning national awards and appearing in worldwide publications, which was really something were proud about. Advertisement Advertisement He went on to explain, When you just kind of boil it down, the company is just planning to refocus 100% of our resources on what we consider our founding strengths and roots, which are the day tour excursions and the shipyard operations and marine services. Read the original article on People At its best, the U.S. is seen as allowing individuals the freedom to live the life they want. (Getty Images) Few ideas are as central to the nations identity as that of the American Dream. With the 250th birthday of the United States coming up in July 2026, its worth stepping back to examine a concept essential to the nations self-image. The term American Dream was actually coined in the 1930s by historian James Truslow Adams. Ever since the establishment of the Colonies, however, America has been viewed as a land where individual and collective hopes and aspirations can be realized. From the idea of America as a shining city on a hill to the Declaration of Independences guarantee of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the nation has been premised on high aspirations. The concept of the American Dream has epitomized these hopes, and it continues to be present throughout our cultural landscape. Advertisement Advertisement As a social scientist, I set out to explore what Americans thought about the American Dream in todays society. I interviewed scores of people, from an elderly man sleeping on the street to a billionaire entrepreneur. I wanted to know exactly how they defined the American Dream and whether it has become harder to achieve today than in the past. Defining the dream From pickup trucks and lawn tractor ads to the labeling of undocumented immigrant children as Dreamers, references to the American Dream in contemporary life are ubiquitous. Washington, D.C., is now home to a brand-new, US$500 million museum, the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, devoted to celebrating the idea and its history. It turns out that for most people I interviewed, the American Dream consists of three basic ideas. Advertisement Advertisement The first is what might be called an economic bargain: If you work hard and play by the rules, you should expect to have a financially secure life. This includes owning a home, being able to afford raising kids and retiring in comfort. Second, the American Dream is centered on hope and optimism. It is about personal progress and the belief that the nations best days lie ahead. Its the idea that each generation should do better than the previous one, and that upward economic mobility is essential for bringing this about. The third and final idea people expressed was having the freedom to pursue their hopes to reach their full potential. For many, this is the epitome of the American Dream. At its best, the U.S. is seen as allowing individuals the freedom to live the life they want. Liberty and rugged individualism have been hallmarks of America since its beginnings, so it should come as no surprise that they are also central to the American Dream. Economically more elusive? Given this, has the American Dream become more or less difficult to achieve over time? Unfortunately, for a growing number of Americans, it appears to be more difficult. Advertisement Advertisement First, the goal of leading an economically secure life in exchange for hard work has become more elusive. Data from the Census Bureau indicates that median wages for full-time male workers have essentially flatlined since 1973. The economy has been producing more low-wage and part-time jobs. Many of these lack benefits, such as health insurance. Less-skilled workers, such as truck drivers and postal clerks, have actually lost ground in terms of income. At the same time, housing, medical care, child care and higher education costs have dramatically increased over the past 40 years. What about upward mobility and the hope for each generation to do better economically than the previous one? There is some evidence that one reason the middle class is shrinking is that more people have entered upper-income tiers. Still, younger generations will actually earn, on average, less as adults than their parents did. This is the first time in U.S. history that this is the case. The formerly taken-for-granted idea of generational progress and moving forward appears to have stalled. Advertisement Advertisement Upward economic mobility for lower-income workers has also slowed over the past 50 years, making it harder to climb the ladder of opportunity. Dissatisfied, not dreaming Finally, what about personal freedom? Survey data indicates that greater numbers of Americans feel they have less control over their lives and futures than in the past. For more than 20 years, Gallup has asked the question, In this country, are you satisfied or dissatisfied with your freedom to choose what you do with your life? The percentage of Americans reporting being satisfied has dropped notably over the past two decades. In 2007 it was 87%, but by 2024 it had fallen to 72%. For women, the number was even lower, declining from 85% in 2007 to 66% in 2024. By comparison, the average for the wealthiest countries in the Gallup survey was 86%. Consequently, on all three counts it appears that the American Dream is becoming harder to achieve. An aspirational hope These trends are important for making sense of the polarization and general negativity found in America today. Too many Americans feel that theyve been left behind and that the American Dream has become a distant reality. Advertisement Advertisement For these Americans, the words of the late comedian and social commentator George Carlin ring true: Its called the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it. Yet the American Dream is a powerful metaphor and aspiration that continues to inspire many in this country. Among those I interviewed, there was a strong consensus that it represents the very best of what America has to offer. There is no other country that has quite the equivalent of the American Dream. As the nation enters its next 250 years, working toward reestablishing the concept as a reality for millions of people who have fallen behind may be vital to maintaining the essence of the American promise. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The former Duke of York Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor allegedly shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The US Department of Justice released emails between Andrew and the paedophile financier, who killed himself in 2019, earlier in February. They appear to show the former duke sharing reports of his official visits to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. Advertisement Advertisement One November 2010 email was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special advisor, Amir Patel. Andrew conducted meetings and trade talks during the visits, which were made in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The messages came after Epstein was convicted in 2008 of soliciting a minor for prostitution. Andrew previously told BBCs Newsnight in 2019 he had cut off contact with the convicted paedophile in December 2010 during a visit to New York. Advertisement Advertisement On 9 February 2011, Andrew told Epstein that he had visited a private equity firm the week before and thought of you. Official government guidance says that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, the guidance read. Andrew has come under even more scrutiny after the latest round of Epstein files were released (PA Wire) This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply. The former duke served as the UKs special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. Advertisement Advertisement Vince Cable, business secretary at the time, told the BBC of the emails: I was unaware of Andrew sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before; this is the first Ive heard of it. The former duke features a number of times in the latest release of documents, including images apparently showing him crouched over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epsteins New York mansion. In 2022, the former duke paid millions of pounds to Virginia Giuffre, his main accuser, despite claiming never to have met her. The King later stripped him of his titles following the posthumous release of a book by Ms Giuffre, who alleges that she was trafficked by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, at the age of 17. This photo released by the US Department of Justice appears to show Andrew with Virginia Giuffre, centre, and Maxwell (PA) It is understood that Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge and relocated to Norfolk to a property on the Kings Sandringham estate earlier this month, reported by The Sun to be Wood Farm Cottage, where he will stay temporarily. Advertisement Advertisement It is understood that the former dukes new home, Marsh Farm, is not yet fully ready, but he is expected to move in by the start of April. It was known the former prince would be moving out of Royal Lodge in the new year and the development is not thought to be linked to the latest revelations in the Epstein papers. Andrew still has the lease for his Windsor property until October, but it is understood he has made the substantive part of his move to his new home. However, it may take some weeks to complete and the former prince is likely to be seen at Royal Lodge on occasion. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. A woman is in the hospital, a man is on the run, and a window was shattered after a shooting at a north Houston restaurant, according to the Houston Police Department. HPD said that officers responded to a shooting at Chacho's restaurant on the North Freeway near East Tidwell Road Saturday night. Lt. Khan said that an angry customer was denied service, then went to his car, got a gun, and started shooting at the restaurant. Advertisement Advertisement Chacho's employee, Daniel Lopez, said he was working when the shots rang out. "I heard the first two pops, and when I heard the first two pops, I turned around," Lopez said. "I had to make sure I wasn't hit first." Lopez said that the issue with the customer had something to do with his order. "What I do know is that he became irate when his order had got canceled," Lopez said. "I'm not sure if there was anything going on mentally." According to Khan, the suspect shot a bystander, hitting her once. She was taken to the hospital, where she is in stable condition, Khan said. Advertisement Advertisement Lopez said that he saw the woman who was hurt. "She was lying on the ground," Lopez said. "By the time I got in, they were already applying pressure to her back." An woman was shot and a window was shattered after an angry customer was denied service at a north Houston restaurant. Photos from the scene show that a bullet shattered a restaurant window. Khan said that the suspect had left before officers arrived, and that the investigation is ongoing. "He walked past me and got in the car. I can't say that I can make out a positive ID because after hearing the gunshots, my mind just went to safety first," Lopez said. "It's crazy. I hope he gets caught." For more news updates, follow Sarah Al-Shaikh on Facebook and Instagram. DES MOINES, Iowa Two bills that would make animal torture a felony crime in the state of Iowa are advancing through the statehouse. HF 2348, formerly titled HF 557, passed out of a House committee unanimously on Thursday. The bill would make the crime of animal torture a class D felony. Iowa lawmakers propose bills criminalizing abortion at any stage of pregnancy Currently, an animal torture charge is an aggravated misdemeanor on the first-offense. According to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Iowa is the only state in the country where animal torture is not a felony for the first-offense. Advertisement Advertisement The bill is eligible for debate on the House floor. A date has not yet been scheduled. SF 2099, a companion bill identical to the House bill, advanced out of the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on Wednesday. According to the Senate Judiciary agenda, the bill is scheduled to be discussed by the full committee on Tuesday afternoon. Iowa news Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. OSLO, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Mona Juul has stepped down as Norway's ambassador to Jordan, also accredited to Iraq, after revelations about her contact with Jeffrey Epstein, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Sunday. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide called the resignation "right and necessary," saying Juul's contact with the convicted sex offender showed a "serious failure of judgment" and made it difficult to restore the level of trust required for the post, the ministry said in a statement. Juul had been relieved of her work obligations last week while the ministry reviewed her knowledge of and contact with Epstein, according to the ministry. The ministry said its internal fact-finding will continue even after Juul's resignation, with particular attention to the rules that apply to state employees and officials both in and outside service. Separately, the ministry said it had launched a review of its grants to and contacts with the International Peace Institute during the period when Juul's husband, Terje Rod-Larsen, led the organization. Eide described information that has emerged about Rod-Larsen's contact with Epstein as "very extensive" and "highly concerning," adding that there was "no doubt" he had shown poor judgment. Epstein, who died in 2019, was a U.S. financier accused of sex trafficking. The U.S. Department of Justice said on Jan. 30 that it had published more than 3 million additional pages of materials under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which it said was signed into law by President Donald Trump in November 2025. Okokrim, Norway's national authority for investigating and prosecuting economic and environmental crime, said on Thursday that it had opened an investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland on suspicion of aggravated corruption based on information contained in the Epstein files, noting his past roles including chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee and secretary general of the Council of Europe. A 35-year-old Annville man was sentenced after manufacturing and attempting to sell 28 ghost guns, privately-made firearms without serial numbers. Hector Colon was sentenced by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson to serve 30 months imprisonment, according to the United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. The sentence includes 12 months of supervised release and $100 in financial penalties. Prosecutors said Colon and Samuel Snader, from Lebanon, sold 28 privately made firearms, or ghost guns, and 420 rounds of ammunition without a federal firearms license between Aug. 5, 2021, and Jan. 5, 2022. Please consider subscribing to support local journalism. Colon pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in the business of selling firearms without a license. Snader was previously sentenced to 12 months and one day for his charges stemming from the case in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement "Colon negotiated the sales and Snader built the firearms using kits purchased over the internet," officials said in a release. "The firearms were sold for cash and provided in person by Snader in the parking lot of a Walmart. The Court found that under the circumstances, Colon had a reason to believe the firearms would be possessed by a prohibited person or used in a felony offense and exhibited 'a blind indifference to public safety.'" Officials previously reported that Snader would manufacture the PMFs, which did not possess serial numbers. Colon allegedly located potential firearm buyers and directed them to Snader, who personally delivered the firearms in exchange for money. All 28 firearms and ammunition were recovered by law enforcement. During the arrests, law enforcement seized additional ghost guns and PMF parts in both Lebanon County and Puerto Rico. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General investigated Colon's case. Assistant United States Attorney Scott F. Ford was the prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement Privately made firearms are firearms, including a frame or receiver, that were completed, assembled, or otherwise produced by a person other than a licensed manufacturer. They may be manufactured using a 3D printing process or any other process and require a serial number or register to be added to legally sell the firearm for livelihood or profit. "The licensee must mark PMFs with a unique serial number within seven days or prior to disposition," officials said. "PMFs are commonly referred to as ghost guns because of the difficulty in tracking them." Between 2016 and 2021, approximately 45,240 suspected ghost guns were recovered by law enforcement from potential crime scenes. Matthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at mtoth@ldnews.com or on X at @DAMattToth. Please consider subscribing to support local journalism. This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Annville man sentenced for manufacturing, selling ghost guns A federal decision is about to change the way Spanish-speaking visitors experience a Texas park, as the Trump administration moves to remove translation signs that have guided visitors for years at Big Bend National Park. Trump officials ordered signs to be removed from at least 18 parks, including the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park and Big Bend National Park, according to documents reviewed by the Washington Post. The majority of the signs and displays are related to climate change, environmental protection and settlers' mistreatment of Native Americans. The federal directive states to remove any content deemed to "disparage Americans past or living." This includes any references to historic racism and sexism, as well as climate change and LGBTQ+ rights. Advertisement Advertisement However, the signs at Big Bend are seemingly uncontroversial, according to reporting from the Washington Post on January 27. The nearly 20 signs are about geology, prehistoric history, fossils and other scientific or historical topics. But some of the displays are in Spanish and English and share details about cooperating with Mexico on modern preservation efforts, the publication reported. Officials did not release how the signs conflict with Trump's directive. The latest action follows news in September 2025 of signs removed in Acadia National Park's iconic Cadillac Mountain and Great Meadow wetland areas. These signs referred to the park's changing climate, including more frequent storms, heavy rain and hotter temperatures. Park advocates slam Trump for sign removal The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has slammed the administration for "suppressing truth, facts and science" at the country's national parks. NPCA Vice President for Government Affairs Kristen Brengel said the action "should alarm every single American." "This dangerous campaign to erase history and science is a tremendous insult to the national parks we know and love. The administration is forcing National Park Service staff to censor science and history," Brengel wrote in a news release. "This is a violation of the core tenets of the National Park Service's mission." Advertisement Advertisement Brengel added how the United States history is complex and visitors deserve to learn about serious topics like slavery, civil rights and the country's treatment of Native Americans, including the science behind climate change, pollution and other challenges faced at national parks. "This systematic erasure is deeply unpopular with Americans across the political spectrum. It is painful, it is wrong, and it will not stand," Brengel said. The sign removal is one of the many changes that have occurred within the National Park Service under the Trump administration. In May, the Trump administration proposed slashing over $1 billion from the park service budget. The House Appropriations Committee's funding bill rejected the administration's provisions. However, NPCA said the bill would still cut $176 million (more than 6%) from the park service's operations budget. The park service has already lost 24% of its permanent staff since the January cuts ordered by the Department of Governmental Efficiency, according to NPCA. The organization said visitor centers have reduced hours and trails and facilities have been falling into disrepair. When the January cuts happened, a long line formed at Big Bend National Park in February. A visitor told MySA that the cuts rattled the staff at Big Bend. This article originally published at Another Trump Administration order hits national parks - what it means in Texas. Israel Police arrested at least nine members of the extremist Peleg Yerushalmi sect who blocked Highway 4 near Bnei Brak to protest recent detentions of haredi draft dodgers. At least two police officers were injured "as a result of rioter violence and stone-throwing," and the windows of a police car were smashed in, due to an "unlawful" haredi (ultra-Orthodox) anti-draft protest on Monday, Israel Police announced. Additionally, nine protesters were arrested during the day's events. Advertisement Advertisement On Monday afternoon, members of the Peleg Yerushalmi faction began blocking Highway 4 near Bnei Brak as part of an anti-IDF draft demonstration. The Peleg Yerushalmi sect, who hold an extremist anti-draft line, denounced the detention of a haredi draft dodger, which took place over the weekend. A later police statement following the incident noted that all roads were reopened as of Monday evening. Dozens of haredi anti-draft protesters block Highway 4, February 9, 2026. (credit: ISRAEL POLICE) Video footage from the scene, seen by The Jerusalem Post, shows police officers forcibly dispersing protesters. Advertisement Advertisement Israel Police and Border Police officers forcibly disperse haredi anti-draft protesters blocking Highway 4, February 9, 2026. (credit: ISRAEL POLICE) "Israel Police sees the right to protest as a cornerstone of a democratic country and allows protests as long as they take place within the framework of the law. At the same time, the police will not allow any kind of disorder or violation of freedom of movement, or any behavior that may endanger the safety of the public," police said. Haredi anti-draft protesters dance in a circle blocking Highway 25, February 9, 2026. (credit: ISRAEL POLICE) Protesters temporarily block Highway 25 in southern Israel Additionally, haredi anti-draft protesters blocked Highway 25 at the Gilat Junction near Ofakim in southern Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of protesters danced in a circle, common within the haredi community, near a military office, video footage shows. In the center of the circle, the protesters placed a yellow chair, which was used to symbolize Gaza hostages taken during the October 7 massacre. The protest on Highway 25 dispersed in a more peaceful manner, reports indicate. By Ali Sawafta and Emily Rose RAMALLAH/JERUSALEM, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates led regional states on Monday in condemning Israel's move to ease settlement expansion and widen its powers in the West Bank, a step critics said went in the direction of annexing occupied land. Sunday's decisions by Israel's security cabinet will make it easier for Jewish settlers to buy land in the West Bank and give Israeli authorities more power to act in areas supposedly under full Palestinian control, two senior Israeli ministers said. Advertisement Advertisement One of them, ultranationalist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, said in announcing the decisions that the government would "continue to kill the idea of a Palestinian state." A joint statement by foreign ministers of Middle Eastern and some other Muslim countries, including Egypt and Turkey, denounced the decisions as a violation of international law that would undermine the vision of a two-state solution as well as stability in the region. They said the moves meant to entrench Israeli settlement of the West Bank, displacing Palestinians and imposing unlawful Israeli sovereignty there. Annexing the territory has long been a priority of far-right parties in Netanyahu's coalition. Jordan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey all have diplomatic relations with Israel. Saudi Arabia has said it will not establish such relations until the formation of a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Most nations have long backed the creation of a Palestinian state alongside Israel as the best way to resolve the generations-old conflict and see the West Bank, which Israel has occupied since 1967, as the largest part of that future state. ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS, DEMOLITION OF PALESTINIAN PROPERTY Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz and Smotrich issued a joint statement explaining the decisions of the five-member security cabinet, which were not published in full. The security cabinet decided to repeal a law dating from Jordan's control of the West Bank before 1967 to make land registries public rather than confidential, and to remove a requirement for a permit from a civil administration office. Advertisement Advertisement They said these moves would make it easier for Jews to purchase land in the West Bank. Hagit Ofran from the Israeli settlement watchdog group Peace Now said the decision was barred by international law and represented a step toward annexation of the West Bank. "The decision to allow every Israeli the right to buy land in the West Bank without government approval, without inspection, is also another way of saying it's normal life. It's not occupied territories, it's like part of Israel," she said. Annexation is opposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who last year said he would not allow Israel to carry out such a step. Advertisement Advertisement "It's not going to happen," Trump, who is expecting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House for a meeting on Wednesday, said in September. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is "gravely concerned" about the situation, his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement. He said Guterres warned that "the current trajectory on the ground, including this decision, is eroding the prospect for the two-State solution." Katz and Smotrich also said that the Israeli government had decided to expand monitoring and enforcement actions regarding water offences, damage to archaeological sites and environmental hazards to areas A and B of the West Bank. Under the Oslo interim peace accords of 1993, Area A was designated as under security control of the Palestinian Authority and Area B as under joint control with Israel. Most of the West Bank became Area C under full Israeli security control. Advertisement Advertisement Those changes could allow the Israeli military to carry out demolitions of Palestinian property and prevent Palestinian development not only in Area C but throughout the West Bank, Peace Now said in a statement. In Hebron, a West Bank city with extensive archaeological remains and a significant Israeli settler community, Palestinians voiced dismay at the decisions. "It becomes easier to confiscate land, easier and faster to expand settlements and easier to demolish Palestinian homes," said Issa Amr, who heads an organisation in Hebron called Youth Against Settlements. (Reporting by Ali Sawafta in Ramallah, Emily Rose in Jerusalem Tala Ramadan in Dubai and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Angus McDowall; editing by Mark Heinrich) An arrest has been made in the brutal murder of an Arizona teenager who was reported missing more than two weeks ago, Us Weekly has learned. Yessenia Gabriella Norman, 18, was found dead in an apartment in Tolleson, Arizona, on January 28. At the time, the apartment was rented by a man named Randal Basilio Santillan, according to a number of local reports. Santillan is now in police custody more than 1,500 miles away in Biloxi, Mississippi, where the 27-year-old was arrested on Friday, February 6. Advertisement Advertisement Santillan, 27, is alleged to have fled to Biloxi after the murder, according to reports. Police did not disclose what evidence led them to Santillan's apartment, where they allege Yessenia who was known as Sisi to friends and family was found dead after sustaining nearly 30 stab wounds. Body Found in Field During Search for Camila Mendoza Olmos Belongs to Missing Teen Investigators have said that Santillan allegedly met Yessenia through an online dating app, but they failed to identify which online service they claim he used. Police said that the two met only four days before Yessenia went to meet Santillan in person. Advertisement Advertisement Investigators eventually secured an arrest warrant for Santillan and developed information that he had left the state and headed for Biloxi. It was unclear why Santillan fled to Mississippi, as police did not say if he had any connections to the Biloxi area. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help her mother, Jessica Nunez, cover the teen's funeral costs. "It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking loss of Yessenia 'Sisi' Norman," reads the page, which called her "beautiful and bright." "Sisi was a loving granddaughter, great-granddaughter, and cousin a young woman of deep compassion and strength for everyone she knew," reads the text on the GoFundMe page, which has already raised nearly $9,000 of its $10,000 goal. "She loved all of her friends' children endlessly, treating them as if they were family too." Advertisement Advertisement Court Docs Reveal Blood Found in Missing Womans Car as Her BF Faces Charges Tied to Investigation The page added that Sisi "was a very talented young woman who had a very bright future waiting for her." It noted that she had "recently signed up for community college and was very eager to start her adult life." "I can't imagine," Norman's mother, Jessica, told KSAZ. "I just can't imagine. Who would do that to her? I just don't understand." The station found court records revealing Santillan and his ex-wife were the tenants of that apartment unit, but that the ex-wife left Santillan last December. Advertisement Advertisement Santillan was arrested without incident and remains at the Harrison County Adult Detention Center while he awaits extradition, according to police. He has been formally charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping. He has not been asked to enter any pleas, and he has no attorney of record. Police from Tolleson and Biloxi, as well as agents from the FBI's Phoenix and Jackson field officers, participated in the investigation. The arrest also involved investigators from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Maricopa County Attorneys Office, and Mississippi Homeland Security. Anyone who may have any information pertinent to the investigation is being asked to call Biloxi Police at (228) 435-6112, Crime Stoppers at 877-787-5898, or Tolleson Police at (623) 936-7186. LEFT: Bari Weiss (Sipa via AP Images) RIGHT: Donald Trump (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss touted new reporting from CBS News on Monday that disputed President Donald Trumps claim that his administration is focused on removing the worst illegal immigrants from the United States. Is Trump really deporting the worst of the worst? asked Weiss on X before directing her followers to a story written by CBS News immigration correspondent Camilo Montoya-Galvez. Advertisement Advertisement Less than 14% of nearly 400,000 immigrants arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in President Trumps first year back in the White House had charges or convictions for violent criminal offenses, according to an internal Department of Homeland Security document obtained by CBS News, noted Montoya-Galvez in his lede. The statistics show ICE has dramatically increased arrests since Mr. Trumps return to office. Nearly 60% of ICE arrestees over the past year had criminal charges or convictions, the document indicates. But among that population, the majority of the criminal charges or convictions are not for violent crimes, he continued. For example, while Mr. Trump and his aides often talk about immigration officials targeting murderers, rapists and gangsters, the internal data indicate that less than 2% of those arrested by ICE over the past year had homicide or sexual assault charges or convictions. Another 2% of those taken into ICE custody were accused of being gang members. Of those arrested by ICE between January 21, 2025 and January 31, 2026, only half a percent had been accused or convicted of homicide. The figures were similarly low for robbery (.7%), sexual assault (1.4%), and weapons offenses (1.6%), but were notably higher for dangerous drugs (5.7%), DWI/DUI (7.6%), and assault (10.9%). All other crimes accounted for 30.1%, while 39.8% of those taken into custody were accused only of civil immigration offenses. The Trump administration has disputed CBSs characterization of the DHS document obtained by Montoya-Galvez. Advertisement Advertisement Drug trafficking, Distribution of child pornography, burglary, fraud, DUI, embezzlement, solicitation of a minor, human smuggling are all categorized as non violent crimes,' noted Tricia McLaughlin, DHSs assistant secretary for public affairs in a rejoinder to Weiss. Like we said, ~70% of those illegal aliens arrested under @POTUS Trump and @Sec_Noem have pending criminal charges or prior convictions. Drug trafficking, Distribution of child pornography, burglary, fraud, DUI, embezzlement, solicitation of a minor, human smuggling are all categorized as non violent crimes. Like we said, ~70% of those illegal aliens arrested under @POTUS Trump and @Sec_Noem have pending https://t.co/4AUzxGMEhP Tricia McLaughlin (@TriciaOhio) February 9, 2026 Fake News, asserted the White Houses rapid response account on X. Heres a few crimes categorized as non-violent: Drug trafficking, human smuggling, child porn, fraud, DUI, burglary, etc. The article even admits 60% had criminal charges or convictions (though its actually ~70%). Theyre CRIMINALS and theyre NOT welcome here. Fake News. Here's a few crimes categorized as "non-violent": Drug trafficking, human smuggling, child porn, fraud, DUI, burglary, etc. The article even admits 60% "had criminal charges or convictions (though it's actually ~70%). They're CRIMINALS and they're NOT welcome here. https://t.co/COngSVANsL Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 9, 2026 The Fake News seems to think that illegal alien drug traffickers, drunk drivers, burglars, and those with weapons chargeswhom they classify as nonviolent offendersshould be left alone, allowed to roam freely within the United States, it added in a follow-up post. Not under this administration. The post Bari Weiss Promotes New CBS Reporting Disputing Trump Boast: Is Trump Really Deporting the Worst of the Worst? first appeared on Mediaite. Make it four for four for Gov. Josh Shapiro. In each of the Democrats first three years in office, Shapiro has called for significant boosts in state funding for public education asking for billion-dollar increases each time. And when he gave his annual budget address to the state Legislature last week, he called for a hike for the fourth straight year. The governor has called on the Legislature to continue to tackle closing a funding gap in the state where schools in poor areas have far fewer resources than those in wealthy areas. Advertisement Advertisement That has occurred through an adequacy funding formula, which directs new state funding to districts most in need. The money, provided through Ready to Learn Block Grants, is a response to a 2023 Commonwealth Court decision that declared the states funding system is inadequate, inequitable and unconstitutional. On Tuesday, Shapiro called for a $565 million increase in that funding. Weve invested a record amount of money in public education, and created a brand-new formula that drives that money out to the schools that need it most, he said. And we pledged to keep doing it until we meet our obligation set forth in Article 3, Section 14 of our state Constitution, which guarantees every Pennsylvanian access to a thorough and efficient system of public education. Shapiro is also calling for increases to two other streams of state funding to school districts, though not nearly at the same level. He is asking that basic education funding the main stream of state support for schools be increased by $50 million, and a $50 million increase for special education funding. Advertisement Advertisement Berks impact The governors proposal would bring an additional $41 million in funding to Berks County schools more than half of which would go to the Reading School District. The bulk of the new funding would come through Ready to Learn Block Grants, which Shapiro is calling to go up by just over $35.4 million in Berks. Basic education funding would increase by just over $2.7 million, while special education would get a nearly $2.9 million boost. Reading would see a total of just over $28.7 million in state funding. Most of that about $25.6 million would be in Ready to Learn Block Grant increases. Advertisement Advertisement In total, the governors budget calls for more than $322 million in state funding for Reading. Other Berks schools would see more modest funding increases. Four districts would each get more than a million dollars in increased Ready to Learn Block Grant funding. Muhlenberg would receive a $7.4 million increase; Wilson would see a $1.9 million increase; Gov. Mifflin would see a $1.6 million increase; and Boyertown would see a $1.4 million increase. Berks reactions Local education leaders expressed gratitude for Shapiros support. We applaud the efforts Gov. Shapiro and his administration have made in meeting the states obligation to educate our children, Antietam Superintendent Dr. Timothy Matlack said. The recent investments have resulted in grant support for replacing our flooded middle-senior high school. Advertisement Advertisement Matlack said equity funding also has helped his district address other issues such as replacing older math and literacy resources. The governors call to continue closing the gaps in funding for districts like Antietam is a welcome one, he said. While money alone does not solve problems, a lack of adequate funding absolutely creates problems. Matlack recognized Shapiro for his calls to invest in special education and career and technology education. He said he hopes the Legislature supports Shapiros education funding plan. Our hope is that the difficult work of reconciling the proposal is a top priority and that, for the sake of everyone across the commonwealth, we have a final budget by July that allows schools to adequately plan to meet the needs of the children we serve, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Daniel Boone Superintendent Thomas Voelker said the budget proposal continue to prove Shapiros support of education. Gov. Shapiro has been working with legislators to develop a new funding formula aimed at increasing support for quality public education, he said. His latest budget proposal continues to demonstrate commitment, both in words and financial backing, to Pennsylvanias public schools. Voelker added that while state funding isnt the only source of revenue for school districts, it is an important one. It is important to remember that school districts receive funding from a combination of local, state and federal sources, he said. In Berks County, almost all districts rely heavily on local funds, and we are acutely aware of how any tax increase impacts our communities. Additional state funding helps alleviate this burden, bringing us closer to closing our budget deficit. Advertisement Advertisement Voelker stressed that the governors proposal isnt a done deal. There are still differing perspectives on how the state will generate revenue to support these expenditures, which could present obstacles to implementing the proposed budget, he said. We remain hopeful for collaborative solutions despite these challenges, understanding how complex these discussions are for all stakeholders. While the proposed state funding offers much-needed relief, identifying sustainable revenue sources is essential for long-term progress. Hamburg Superintendent Dr. Christopher Beissel said that while his district doesnt see big boosts in funding in the governors proposal, he supports Shapiros efforts to bolster education. Advertisement Advertisement Hamburg Area School District is not expecting significant increases in our basic education and special education funding based on the proposed budget, but we appreciate present levels of funding being maintained, he said. Additionally, we are hopeful that there is further consideration for cyber charter tuition reform that will ultimately save both the district and our taxpayers money. Dr. Jill Hackman, executive director of the Berks County Intermediate Unit, said she is encouraged by the budgets attention to early childhood education. The proposal includes a $10 million increase for child care recruitment and retention; a $7.5 million increase for Pre-K Counts; and a $2 million increase for Head Start. The proposed funding reflects the essential role education plays in fostering opportunity, stability and community well-being, she said. As the budget advances through the legislative process, we recognize the importance of thoughtful review, dialogue and careful consideration of fiscal sustainability. These discussions are essential to ensuring that education investments are both effective and enduring. Advertisement Advertisement Hackman said the BCIU remains committed to supporting policies and funding decisions that advance access and long-term success for students and communities. And we are hopeful the final budget will reflect a shared commitment to the future of Berks County and the commonwealth, she said. Gov. Andy Beshear called for the withdrawal of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents "from every city and every community that they're in" during a Feb. 9 appearance on ABC's "The View." "This organization has to be reformed from the top down," Beshear said about the agency. "(Department of Homeland Security) Secretary (Kristi) Noem needs to be fired and every agent needs to be retrained." Beshear said "the aggressive actions of ICE you don't see with any other law enforcement group anywhere." Advertisement Advertisement "The idea that you don't need a judicial warrant to storm into the home of an American is just wrong," he said. "There is a body count of American citizens right now because of the actions of this agency. That should be enough to say 'we're gonna take a pause.'" USA TODAY previously reported a growing number of Democrats in Congress are calling for the impeachment of Noem following the fatal January shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Gold by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis. The odds of impeachment appear to be thin because of the Republican majority in Congress. Noem also has the backing of President Donald Trump. Tell us what you think. Submit your letter to the editor. Beshear's comments also come as at least 25 law enforcement agencies in Kentucky have agreed to partner with ICE, including six new agreements in January alone, The Courier Journal reported Feb. 9. Lawmakers in the commonwealth are also pushing a bill that would require the Kentucky State Police and local law enforcement agencies to take part in the 287(g) program, which allows for collaboration with federal immigration enforcement officials. Advertisement Advertisement Beshear, the newly-elected leader of the Democratic Governors Association, has seen an uptick in appearances with national media and at out-of-state political events in recent years. While he has acknowledged he is considering a 2028 presidential campaign, Beshear has not committed to a run. More KY politics: 'It's not a sin to be White': Andy Barr launches new anti-DEI ad in KY This story may update. Lucas Aulbach, Keely Doll and Monroe Trombly contributed reporting. Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@usatodayco.com or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Andy Beshear talks ICE, Kristi Noem on ABC's 'The View' A bill allowing couples to waive no-fault divorce failed to advance Monday from an Iowa Senate subcommittee. (Photo via Getty Images) A bill that would allow couples registering for marriage licenses to opt out of no-fault divorce advanced from an Iowa Senate subcommittee Monday. Senate File 2172, introduced by Sen. Jesse Green, R-Harcourt, would allow couples applying for a marriage license to jointly waive dissolution of marriage based solely on the breakdown of the marriage relationship by filing a waiver with the county registrar. Advertisement Advertisement If a waiver was in place, a person petitioning for a divorce would have to show proof on the part of the spouse of adultery, imprisonment for a felony, abandonment from the marital domicile for at least a year, physical or sexual abuse of the petitioner or a child, or a separation of two years or more. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Green, who chaired a subcommittee meeting on the bill Monday, said some of his Christian friends believe prenuptial agreements, which allow a marrying couple to agree in advance to terms of divorce and division of assets, are a violation of their conscience. He characterized no-fault divorce as chaos and a circus. Advertisement Advertisement Sure, the divorce rates have lessened, which is a great thing, but so has the marriage rates, Green said. A lot of people are not getting married anymore because maybe in some cases, they feel the lack of support and accountability with our law. Most of the speakers at the subcommittee meeting opposed the bill, saying the state should not make it more difficult for a person to leave an abusive spouse by requiring proof. This bill largely legally enables abusive partners to keep spouses trapped in dangerous relationships by requiring domestic violence victims to prove fault, Laura Hessberg of Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence said. Family law attorneys also pointed out the need to prove cause in divorce proceedings would further strain Iowas court system. Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Tony Bisignano, D-Des Moines, declined to sign off on the bill. Sen. Scott Webster, R-Bettendorf, said hed be willing to consider a bill if it were completely rewritten to allow the waiver only for matters of child custody and division of assets. He said hed support a way to prevent an abusive spouse from receiving 50% of the couples assets and joint custody of children in a divorce. He added that while the waiver of no-fault divorce would be voluntary, When you get married, you dont believe that anythings going to go wrong. Green said hed ben amenable to rewriting the bill, which moved forward with a recommendation for amendment. Most legislation needs approval by a full committee by Feb. 20 to remain eligible for debate. Correction: This story has been updated to correct the status of the legislation. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) A new proposal in the Illinois House would ban tear gas across the state. House Bill 5553, introduced by Rep. Edgar Gonzalez Jr (D-Chicago), creates the Building Remedies to End Abusive Tear Gas and Harmful Exposures Act, citing health risks associated with tear gas and other chemical agents. Legislators say the bill aims to establish statewide public health standards and prevent dangerous exposures. Advertisement Advertisement Under the bill, deploying or possessing tear gas would become illegal within 180 days after the law takes effect. The only exemptions to the bill would be: temporary possession during interstate shipping, use by retailers who keep the product sealed, and small self-defense devices under two ounces that are used in lawful personal protection. The proposal points to recent examples, such as the Chicago Police Departments operations at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, to argue that law enforcement can manage large-scale events without tear gas. The bill also creates a new Chemical Agent Review Board within the Illinois Department of Public Health. The board would be made up of doctors, chemists, toxicologists, and civil rights attorneys, to guide standards behind which pepper spray formulas could be allowed in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Under the bill, individuals injured by tear gas could sue under strict liability, meaning they wouldnt need to prove negligence. Civil rights, immigrant rights, and public health organizations that meet certain criteria would have authority to file lawsuits on behalf of impacted communities, with relief of up to $10,000 per violation. The money would go into a new Illinois Human Rights Enforcement Fund. Anyone, typically law enforcement, who deploys a chemical irritant outside of personal selfdefense would be required to report it to IDPH within 48 hours, including the location, product used, estimated number of people exposed, and any known injuries. IDPH would maintain a public database summarizing these incidents. The bill would take effect immediately upon becoming law, but its major restrictions roll out over time: a 180day phasein for the tear gas ban and a oneyear window before unapproved pepper sprays become illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. TEHRAN, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), Ali Larijani, will lead a delegation to the Omani capital of Muscat on Tuesday, according to the SNSC-affiliated Nour News. Larijani is scheduled to meet with high-ranking Omani officials to discuss regional and international developments, as well as bilateral relations, the news outlet reported Monday. The visit comes after Oman hosted and mediated a round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States on Friday. Amid heightened tensions between the two nations, Oman is considered a potential venue for future talks. At a news conference in Tehran on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the date and location for the next round of nuclear negotiations would be determined through consultations with Oman. State Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, attends a Senate Appropriations Committee meeting on Oct. 3, 2023. (Photo by Kyle Phillips/For Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Gov. Kevin Stitt on Friday signed a bill to protect worship services. Senate Bill 743 was the first measure he signed this session. The law, which became effective upon Stitts signature, creates enhanced penalties for the unlawful disruption of a worship service. Advertisement Advertisement Anyone within 100 feet of a place of worship is required to give worshipers a corridor of 8 feet, unless invited to approach, according to the new law. Stitts signing of the measure sends a signal that Oklahomans can worship without fear of disruption, said Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, the Senate author. Gollihare said a service at his Creek County church was disrupted last year by individuals who were upset with a vote he cast against what he said was an unconstitutional abortion measure. The right to peacefully assemble is a cornerstone of American democracy, said Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle. I am a staunch believer in freedom of speech, but that doesnt mean freedom from consequences. The measure was a holdover from last session and the first taken up in the Senate this session. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Proposed legislation in the House would require schools to stock naloxone and administer it as needed. The product is seen here in a vending machine outside of a Lawrence Transit station near the University of Kansas campus. (Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Parents, first responders and educators are urging lawmakers to require schools to stock naloxone and provide fentanyl prevention education to prevent overdoses and deaths. House Bill 2489 would combine education and resources with the goal of preventing youth fentanyl-related deaths. Schools would be required to maintain a stock supply of naloxone, as well as being responsible for storage, adequate quantity and administering as needed. Advertisement Advertisement The bill would allow school personnel to administer naloxone on a voluntary basis outside of the scope of employment. Josh Magaha, a Kansas City firefighter, said he has given 15,000 children and adults overdose prevention education across eastern Kansas since 2018. Magahas first presentation was in Basehor. Five days later, someone overdosed on the schools campus. Every single school Ive presented in has had an overdose. Every single school Ive presented in has Narcan now, Magaha said. I see it first hand. The fact that the deaths are going down is being blanketed because we have so much Narcan in the community. Narcan is a brand name for naloxone as a nasal spray. Advertisement Advertisement Education on fentanyl abuse prevention would be for grades 9-12 and can be provided alongside other drug prevention programs. The State Board of Education would be responsible for creating guidance to ensure the curriculum is age appropriate. Tim Graham, of the Kansas National Education Association, said he worried the language in the bill regarding staff and personnel was broad, and should be changed since those handling the naloxone would be nonmedical professionals. The bill requires nonmedical employees and volunteers whod be asked to administer naloxone outside of their employment, Graham said. This raises practical concerns about expectations placed on staff who are not trained as medical professionals. Between 2020 and 2023, 48 children died because of fentanyl, according to the Kansas State Child Death Review Board, with 74% of child drug-related deaths caused by fentanyl. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Pat Proctor, a Leavenworth Republican, testified in favor of the bill, saying roughly 30 to 50 people overdose per year in Leavenworth. Proctor, who has served in the House since 2021, said roughly a dozen of those are overdose deaths. I didnt understand the scope of this problem when I came here. This is happening to our kids and in our schools, too, Proctor said. The problem isnt getting worse, but it aint getting better. Amber Saale-Burger testified to the committee about losing her daughter and grandsons father to pills laced with fentanyl. She said the concept of stocking naloxone is the same as automated external defibrillators or fire extinguishers in schools. Naloxone needs to be as readily available as possible, she said. We keep fire extinguishers in the house not because we plan to start a fire, but because if it happens we can put it out. Naloxone should be treated no different. Advertisement Advertisement Saale-Burger said prevention education can save lives and break the cycle for drug-endangered children. The only way to make this problem go away is to talk to our kids about it, Saale said. Kids dont know until its too late. Harm reduction advocates staged a die-in at the Trenton Statehouse on Monday, June 30, 2025, after legislators fearing federal Medicaid cuts would hurt hospitals decided to divert $45 million in national opioid settlement funds to four of the state's largest hospitals. (Photo by Dana DiFilippo/New Jersey Monitor) State lawmakers on Monday took the first step to restoring tens of millions in funding for frontline services to address New Jerseys opioid crisis, money that critics say was raided and given to a handful of hospital systems during the budget process last spring. The Senates health committee advanced legislation that calls for the state to pay the hospitals $45 million out of the general fund instead of from a pot of money overseen by New Jerseys Opioid Recovery and Remediation Advisory Council, a panel that guides the states investment of opioid settlement funds. The state is expected to collect $1.3 billion over 15 years through various legal settlements with pharmaceutical companies. Advertisement Advertisement The bill, sponsored by committee chair Sen. Joe Vitale (D-Middlesex), received unanimous support Monday but faces additional votes in both the Senate and Assembly before it can be signed into law. The funding would still be distributed as envisioned under the budget bill: $15 million for both RWJBarnabas Health and Cooper University Health Care, $10 million for Hackensack Meridian Health, and $5 million to Atlantic Health. This bill is a Band-Aid, and we should never have gotten here, said Bre Azanedo, a member of the advisory council with the National Black Harm Reduction Network, one of many advocates who testified in favor of the measure at Mondays hearing. The money was not supposed to be used this way. Azanedo and other advocates for harm reduction life-saving strategies like distributing clean needles and the overdose reversal agent naloxone, or Narcan criticized state lawmakers during last years budget process when Democratic legislative leaders took the $45 million in opioid settlement funds and diverted it to the four hospital systems. Then-Attorney General Matt Platkin called the move a slap in the face to every family that lost a loved one in this devastating crisis, and critics staged a die-in at the Statehouse in Trenton to protest the diversion. Sen. Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen), the Senates budget chairman, said at the time the funding shift aimed to assist hospitals that treat a lot of people with addiction issues at a time when these facilities were losing resources under Trump administration cuts to the public Medicaid program. But harm reduction advocates said that while hospitals play an important role in caring for people with substance use disorders, New Jersey should devote the funds to frontline services to support families and keep people alive. Advertisement Advertisement The state has already distributed more than $100 million in settlement funds to support harm reduction, housing, and other strategies backed by the advisory council, which includes state officials, clinical and policy experts, and people with first-hand experience. Every overdose death is preventable when we have the right services and programs in place, said Jenna Mellor, executive director of the New Jersey Harm Reduction Coalition and a member of the advisory council. The key is building trust, she added, trust these individuals do not have in hospitals, police, sometimes even their own families. After years of increases, drug fatalities peaked with over 3,000 deaths recorded in 2022, but deaths have declined since, with fewer than 1,500 people lost last year, according to preliminary state data, although racial disparities persist. You cannot deny the progress, Mellor said. An earlier version of this story should have said Bre Azanedo is with the National Black Harm Reduction Network. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX State Sen. Joe Nicola laughs during his introduction to the Missouri Senate on the first day of the 2025 legislative session (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). A bill that would lower the minimum wage for minors was pitched by its sponsor last week as a way to help small businesses and young workers. The legislation would create a separate minimum wage for those under age 18 who are employed in Missouri. The new minimum wage rate for minors would be $12.30 per hour, down from the state rate of $15 per hour. Advertisement Advertisement The bills sponsor, Sen. Joe Nicola, a Republican from Grain Valley, is aiming to protect both small businesses and teen workers, as he has seen a decrease of teen employment in his district. Labor is often the single largest expense when wages rise too quickly, Nicola said. Owners are forced to make hard choices, reduce hours, raise prices, automate jobs like installing kiosks instead of having teens employed or stop hiring inexperienced workers altogether. Missouris minimum wage has nearly doubled in the past decade, increasing from $7.65 in 2016 to $15 in 2026. Nicola said the bill takes into account that entry-level jobs are fundamentally different from adult employment and that Missouris wage laws should remain fair. Advertisement Advertisement These are entry level positions that require training, supervision, patience from employers, Nicola said. David Overfelt, president of the Missouri Retailers Association, and Dan Shaul, the executive state director for the Missouri Grocers Association and president of Midwest Retail and Grocery Alliance spoke in support of the bill. Those opposed said age discrimination should not be legislated in Missouri and that some families rely on teenagers wages. A member of the public testified that, when he was a youth worker, his family depended on his paycheck after the death of his father. He found it insulting to say that lower wages would be in his best interest. Advertisement Advertisement Jake Hummel, president of Missouri AFL-CIO, said the bill would be creating a two-tiered system. The lower wage would also make it harder for teens to afford the costs of living given they already face higher car insurance prices. Hummel said that Missouris relatively high minimum wage attracts out-of-state employees. Im kind of excited to hear that the citizens of Kansas are coming over for employment in the state of Missouri to pay taxes here in the state, Hummel said. And last I checked, we were trying to attract workers to Missouri, not do the opposite. Nicola rebutted by saying that the out-of-state minors would be working jobs that Missouri minors could instead have. This story originally appeared in the Columbia Missourian. It can be republished in print or online. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) An Ohio legislator proposed withholding state funding for over 300 school districts involved in legal action against the states school voucher program. Rep. Jamie Callender (R-Concord) introduced House Bill 671 to combat school districts involved in a years-long legal battle over the states taxpayer-funded school voucher system, EdChoice. If passed, the bill would withhold state funding for over half of Ohios public school districts, most of which already feel the state is underfunding public schools. EdChoice and its partner program, EdChoice-Exp, offer state-funded scholarships for families to attend private schools of their choice. The program has no income limits, so any family can receive at least a partial scholarship regardless of financial need. See previous coverage of the EdChoice program in the video player above. Advertisement Advertisement South Western City Schools reach tentative union contract in effort to avoid strike The state allocated $1.1 billion to state voucher programs in the 2024-2025 school year, 71% of which was paid to EdChoice and EdChoice-Exp. Proponents say it offers families control and opportunities in their students education, but opponents say it unjustly takes funding from public schools. The bill drew immediate frustration from members of the Vouchers Hurt Ohio coalition, a group of over 330 of Ohios 611 public districts challenging the EdChoice program. Under Callenders proposal, any school district that is part of a lawsuit challenging Ohios education funding would have their state financial support withheld until the legal action was resolved or the district withdrew from lawsuits. Mr. Callender is saying to school districts if you are advocating for your students by challenging the constitutionality of EdChoice private school vouchers, then you will be punished by losing tax dollars Ohioans have paid to support public schools. Think about that, William Phillis, Vouchers Hurt Ohio leader with the Ohio Coalition for Equity & Adequacy of School Funding, said. Advertisement Advertisement The bill targets the Vouchers Hurt Ohio lawsuit, but would be extended to any district challenging state school funding before a court. Many public school leaders are already frustrated with state funding, with public school advocates claiming the state is underfunding public schools by over $2 billion over the next two years. Bipartisan Ohio bill proposes Fathers Walk Week to encourage parental involvement Phillis said the bill serves as a punishment for districts who refuse to stay silent over perceived inequities. State support varies for each district depending on the needs of the school, but Honesty for Ohio Education estimates the state supplies 32% of school funding. The loss would be a significant blow for schools and likely require districts to rely on school levies and local taxes in place of state support. Phillis is well-acquainted with Ohios school funding system. In the 1990s, he led another lawsuit where the Ohio Supreme Court ruled Ohio was inadequately funding public schools by over relying on property taxes and leaving many rural districts behind. Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio Constitution says the state must create a thorough and efficient system of public schools, and felt the funding system did not live up to the requirements. Phillis and Vouchers Hurt Ohio are using a similar argument against the EdChoice program. So far, the argument has worked; in June, Franklin County Judge Jaiza Page ruled the EdChoice program is creating an unconstitutional second system of uncommon private schools directly funded by the state. The case continues in appeals court, and the EdChoice program was allowed to continue until a final ruling. New bill would make student behavioral threat assessments shareable H.B. 671 would almost certainly face legal challenges if approved, as districts have the right to bring concerns before a judge. The Ohio Constitution also requires the state to fund public schools. H.B. 671 would withhold funds until a resolution is reached, but would not cut funding altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Callender is a lawyer. He should know better. The school districts have a longstanding constitutional right to pursue legal action on behalf of their students, Eric Brown, former Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and chairman of the Vouchers Hurt Ohio Steering Committee, said. Despite strong pushback from anti-voucher groups, the bill has received support from some of Callenders fellow Republicans. State Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) publicly supported the bill on Thursday, saying schools need to focus on education, not ideology. Representative Callenders bill ensures that schools cannot use state money intended to meet student needs to sue the very state that supports them, Cirino said. Im proud to support this legislation and look forward to seeing it in the Senate. H.B. 671 was referred to the House Finance Committee on Feb. 4 and awaits further action. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Body-worn camera footage during the response and aftermath of the Brown University mass shooting on Dec. 13 shows an eerie and chaotic scene unfolding in the minutes after the shooter fled. About 20 minutes of body cam footage was released on Feb. 9 as part of a larger public records release by the City of Providence, which included incident reports, radio calls and dispatch logs. The footage, which is redacted partially and fully in places, was recorded by the body-worn camera of Lt. Patrick Potter, who was the "officer in charge" at the scene. It follows Potter's movements through the Barus & Holley engineering building, where the shooting took place, and covers his command of the scene, clearing students out of the building and assisting an injured student out of the basement. What does the body cam footage show? Picking up at around 4:16 p.m., the footage starts with Potter establishing his command and walking through the hallways of Barus & Holley near the Hope Street entrance. Advertisement Advertisement Several minutes later, Potter moves through the hallway and out into a common area near the main entrance of the building. Desks and tables are littered with items left behind from students as they fled from the shooting, including open laptops, backpacks and jackets. As the video continues, Potter directs officers both in and out of the building as they clear rooms and close down streets to traffic. Potter, who is holding a rifle while he moves through the building, encounters officers from other agencies, including Rhode Island State Police troopers. At one point, Potter responds to officers reporting finding an injured student in the basement. Though much of the interaction is redacted, it appears that Potter helps the student get to safety. Advertisement Advertisement Numerous times throughout the 20-minute video, Potter says that there is no suspect and that law enforcement is operating as if the shooter is still in the building. About halfway through the video, Potter exits the building and directs a person, who is blacked out, to Waterman and Thayer streets, and radios that the hospitals need to be advised that police vehicles are also doing transports. At the time stamp 16:33 or 4:33 p.m. the first medical rescues start to roll into the Barus & Holley building and to room 166, where the victims are located. The footage concludes after the stretchers are brought in and as the SWAT team arrives at the building. Watch the full video below: This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Brown University shooting body cam footage shows aftermath, police response NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Boeing announced last week that the remaining 787 engineering work would be moved from its Puget Sound base to North Charleston. Union members with the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace met with Boeing in a Joint Workforce Committee meeting on Jan. 29. At the meeting, Boeing had told SPEEA that there would be no company decisions in the foreseeable future that would impact work statement or employment levels for SPEEA members, according to SPEEA executive director Ray Goforth. Advertisement Advertisement The next morning, SPEEA members at Boeing received the announcement that the remaining 787 engineering work would be moved to South Carolina. SPEEA union members say they are still waiting for information on when this move could take place and how it could affect their job security. Boeing has reportedly rejected a SPEEA request that would guarantee no members would be laid off as a result of this decision. News 2 reached out to Boeing for a statement about this decision. This is what they said: As we continue to strengthen Engineering to support our programs and customers, we are hiring a significant number of engineers in Puget Sound to support commercial airplane programs, including the 737 North Line and continued execution on our development programs, as well as in South Carolina to support planned 787 rate increases. These engineers will be co-located with the programs they support to ensure collaboration and support next to the airplane. Boeing also stated that it had begun consolidating 787 production in South Carolina in 2021 and will continue to co-locate roles alongside production to ensure the program is prepared for upcoming rate increases. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. The Honorable James Comer Chairman Committee on Oversight and Government Reform U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 Dear Chairman Comer, It is my understanding that Ms. Ghislaine Maxwell intends to invoke her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and decline to answer all substantive questions at her upcoming deposition before the House Oversight Committee. This position appears inconsistent with Ms. Maxwells prior conduct, as she did not invoke the Fifth Amendment when she previously met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to discuss substantially similar subject matter. I understand that Ms. Maxwell intends to assert this privilege on a blanket basis by reading a prepared statement at the outset of the deposition and refusing to permit Members to question her individually through counsel, rather than invoking the privilege on a question-by-question basis. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, I am submitting in this letter the questions I intend to ask at Ms. Maxwells deposition and request confirmation from the Chair as to whether she intends to invoke the Fifth Amendment in response to the following questions: 1. On December 17, 2025, you filed a habeas corpus petition stating that four named co-conspirators and 25 men who entered into secret settlements were not indicted as part of the investigation. Is that statement accurate? 2. Who are the four co-conspirators and the 25 men, other than Jeffrey Epstein, who sexually abused minors at Epsteins island, his New Mexico ranch, or his New York residence, and why do you believe they were not indicted? 3. What information, evidence, or personal knowledge do you have regarding why these individuals were not charged or prosecuted by federal authorities? 4. It is well documented that you, President Donald Trump, and Mr. Epstein had a social relationship, and there are several photographs of you together. Did you or Mr. Epstein ever arrange, facilitate, or provide access to underage girls to President Trump? 5. After President Trump publicly stated that he would look at a possible pardon for you, did you or anyone acting on your behalf have any discussions with him or his representatives about a pardon or reduced sentence in exchange for your silence? 6. What client lists or records did you or Mr. Epstein maintain that document the identities of clients or associates? 7. Please identify any foreign governments or intelligence services, including those associated with Russia and Israel, that Mr. Epstein shared information with or otherwise acted on behalf of, and describe the nature and purpose of any such relationships. To avoid any doubt about the scope of Ms. Maxwells Fifth Amendment claim, please confirm that Ms. Maxwell intends to invoke the Fifth Amendment on these questions. Furthermore, I request this document be moved into the official record at the start of Ms. Maxwells deposition. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Best, Ro Khanna Member of Congress U.S. House of Representatives The Hungarian government said on Feb. 8 that it is providing consular protection to its citizen detained by Ukraine over allegedly trying to help five Ukrainian draft-age men illegally cross the border. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, whose government has repeatedly lashed out against Ukraine and opposed military assistance to the war-torn country, said the "case once again clearly shows that the war must be brought to an end as soon as possible, and forced conscription must be stopped immediately." Ukraine has restricted travel abroad for male citizens eligible for conscription during martial law, which was declared after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Seeking to avoid the draft, thousands of Ukrainian men have sought to leave the country through various illicit schemes. Hungary and Ukraine share a 136.7-kilometer (84.9-mile) border that stretches along the Tisza River valley. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Feb. 7 that it had detained the Hungarian "guide" as he was attempting to smuggle five Ukrainian men for a fee of $9,000-$15,000 per person across the Hungarian border. The Ukrainians have been detained as well. Organizers of the scheme were expected to earn a total of $55,000, the State Border Guard Service said. Ukrainian authorities detained the Hungarian citizen for 60 days with a bail set at Hr 3.5 million ($82,000) and confiscated cash, mobile phones, and an off-road vehicle used to transport the men to the border. Advertisement Advertisement "As the fourth anniversary approaches, everyone is already fed up with the war," Szijjarto said in a post on Facebook. "Ukrainians do not want to die; yet day after day we see footage of violent conscription operations, with what often amounts to open manhunts taking place on the streets of Ukrainian cities." Hungary's chief diplomat, who often engages in public spats with Ukrainian and other European officials on social media, said the Hungarian government is assisting its detained citizen during police proceedings. While mobilization remains a sensitive topic in Ukraine, Russian propaganda has sought to amplify and twist the issue in order to undermine the country's war efforts and sow societal divisions. Advertisement Advertisement Hungary, broadly seen as the most Kremlin-friendly country within the EU, has often echoed Russian talking points on the war. Read also: Ukraine to open 10 weapons export centers in Europe in 2026 in major wartime policy shift Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Brief Peacewalk monks reached Alexandria over the weekend. They continue toward Arlington Monday and D.C. on Tuesday. Crowds lined the route as they near the finish. ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Buddhist monks on a "Walk for Peace" made their way through Alexandria over the weekend as their long journey toward Washington, D.C., enters its final stretch. FOX 5s Melanie Alnwick reports the group plans to continue from Alexandria to Arlington on Monday. Part of their route follows the lower part of the George Washington Parkway and through Old Town Alexandria, where drivers may see temporary lane closures for safety. Advertisement Advertisement The group set out around 8 a.m. on Monday. They were escorted by law enforcement. READ MORE: FOX 5 speaks with Buddhist monks walking for peace sit down What we know The monks began their journey on Oct. 26, 2025, at a Vietnamese Buddhist temple in Texas. They expect to reach Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, where theyll ask Congress to recognize Buddhas day of birth and enlightenment as a federal holiday. Along the way, they say their top priority has been connecting with people who come out to greet them. Despite it being Super Bowl Sunday in Fairfax County, hundreds lined the streets to cheer them on. Many brought signs and gifts and even "Monk Walk for Peace" merchandise. Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: Buddhist monks Walk for Peace to DC: Where are the monks now? Update: The Monks have safely arrived at the Buddhist Temple off Backlick Rd. Please continue to expect delays. Stay on sidewalks, dont stop or park on the road, and follow officer directions. pic.twitter.com/X4PAeXS4GE Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) February 8, 2026 Led by Bhikkhu Pannakara (R), Buddhist monks participate in a "Walk for Peace" in Richmond, Virginia, on February 3, 2026. The group is walking from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC to promote peace, compassion and nonviolence. (Photo by Aaron Mathes / AFP via Getty Images) READ MORE: FOX 5 speaks with Buddhist monks walking for peace sit down Supporters told FOX 5 they hope the movement continues to grow. Over the weekend, the group walked through Fredericksburg and Stafford County before reaching Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Local police departments have been escorting the monks to ensure their safety and the safety of those gathering to see them. The monks are expected to arrive in Washington on Tuesday and have invited all monks and nuns to join them. A concluding ceremony is planned at the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday afternoon. Buddhist monks participate in a "Walk for Peace" in Glen Allen, Virginia, on February 3, 2026. The group is walking from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC to promote peace, compassion and nonviolence. (Photo by Aaron Mathes / AFP via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: Hundreds brave the cold to greet Buddhist monks in Alexandria The Source Information in this article comes from the Associated Press and previous FOX 5 reporting. HONG KONG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson for the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) said on Monday that the office firmly supports the sentencing decision made by the HKSAR judiciary on Jimmy Lai in accordance with the law. The 156-day public trial, which involved the examination of 2,220 exhibits, over 80,000 pages of case files and testimonies of 14 prosecution witnesses, had established that Lai colluded with external forces to endanger national security, the spokesperson noted. The judicial process was open, transparent, rigorous, fair and just, with Lai's legal rights protected. The trial demonstrated that Lai was a main orchestrator and participant in anti-China activities aimed at destabilizing Hong Kong, said the spokesperson. He acted as a proxy and pawn of external anti-China forces, as well as the mastermind behind the three crimes, including conspiring to collude with external forces to endanger national security. "The punishment fit the crime," said the spokesperson. Certain Western politicians' vile attempt to exploit Lai's case to damage the environment and foundation of Hong Kong's rule of law is doomed to fail, the spokesperson said. The spokesperson stressed that the office will work with the HKSAR to resolutely and effectively prevent and block external interference. Feb 9 (Reuters) - The death toll from the collapse of residential buildings in the Lebanese city of Tripoli rose to 15 after search and rescue operations ended, Lebanon's National News Agency said on Monday, citing the civil defence chief. Civil defence director general Imad Khreiss said rescue teams rescued eight people from the rubble of the collapsed buildings in the northern city's Bab al-Tabbaneh neighbourhood. Officials said on Sunday that two adjoining buildings had collapsed. Advertisement Advertisement Abdel Hamid Karimeh, head of Tripoli's municipal council, said he could not confirm how many people remained missing. Earlier, the head of Lebanon's civil defence rescue service said the two buildings were home to 22 residents. A number of aging residential buildings have collapsed in Tripoli, Lebanon's second-largest city, in recent weeks, highlighting deteriorating infrastructure and years of neglect, state media reported, citing municipal officials. The Lebanese cabinet said following a meeting that the city's municipal council is set to issue a decision to evacuate 114 buildings at risk of collapse within a period not exceeding one month. Temporary housing assistance would be made available for families being evacuated for one year, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Karimeh said the issue of unsafe buildings in Tripoli was longstanding and driven by multiple factors, including construction violations, years of disorder, weak oversight and a lack of regular maintenance, partly linked to restrictive rent control laws that discourage owners from investing in repairs. He said many buildings in the city were between 60 and 70 years old and had exceeded their structural lifespan without undergoing essential maintenance, increasing the risk of collapse. The problem, he added, exceeded the capacity of the municipality and residents alone, calling for direct state intervention. Authorities have begun providing temporary shelter to displaced families, while Lebanon's Higher Relief Committee is offering housing allowances for up to three months, Karimeh said. He added that charities, the Ministry of Social Affairs and international organisations were coordinating to provide assistance, saying the aim was to secure a minimum acceptable level of support for affected households. (Reporting by Jana Choukeir and Jaidaa Taha; Editing by Kirsten Donovan and David Holmes) NEED TO KNOW California wildlife officers spotted a woman attempting to take abalones, rare mollusks protected by state laws, during a park patrol The woman produced two illegally taken abalone during an inspection Officials cited her for the violations while her companion was cleared A routine patrol at a Northern California state park took an unexpected turn over the weekend after wildlife officers discovered a woman attempting to conceal illegally harvested abalone inside her pants. According to a Facebook post shared by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on Thursday, Feb. 5, a wildlife officer was monitoring activity at Van Damme State Park in Little River, Calif., using a spotting scope when he observed a man and woman collecting purple sea urchins in the "intertidal zone." During the observation, the officer noticed the woman discreetly hide what appeared to be an abalone down her pants. Advertisement Advertisement Abalone is a type of mollusk or sea snail. Red abalone used to be plentiful in California waters, but saw an approximately 85% drop in population following the collapse of kelp forests in the area due to a marine heatwave in 2014. Red abalone are now heavily protected, with red abalone recreational fisheries in California set to be closed until at least 2036, per the CDFW. Stock, Sea urchin on a rocky coast. Getty The officer left his observation point and contacted the pair in the parks parking lot before they could leave. During a routine license and catch inspection, the officer asked the woman about the concealed item. She then removed a small abalone from inside her clothing, officials said. Suspecting there may be more, the officer requested assistance from a female wildlife officer to conduct a further search. Once the process was explained, the woman then "produced a small abalone from inside her pants," the post read, confirming the officer's concerns. The woman was cited for illegally taking two abalone. The male companion was found to have complied with fishing regulations and was not cited. Advertisement Advertisement PEOPLE reached out to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for further comment. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife routinely enforces strict regulations surrounding abalone, which have been largely closed to recreational harvesting in the state for years. Officials regularly remind the public that violations can result in fines, citations, and, in some cases, criminal penalties. The agency did not release the identities of those involved. Read the original article on People Street in Concordia, Mexico, near where 10 mining workers were kidnapped last month [Getty Images] A Canadian mining company says some of its workers who were abducted from a project site in Mexico last month have been found dead. Ten employees of the Vancouver-based Vizsla Silver Corp have been missing since 23 January, when they were taken from a mining site near Concordia, Mexico. Vizsla Silver Corp said it had been informed by family members of some of the kidnapped workers that their relatives were found deceased. Advertisement Advertisement The mining firm says it is "awaiting confirmation from the Mexican authorities and will provide further updates as appropriate." "We are devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life," Vizsla president and CEO Michael Konnert said. Konnert offered condolences to the families of the dead, and said "our focus remains on the safe recovery of those who remain missing". One family member told CBC News that he identified the body of his 43-year-old brother on Sunday. He said his brother, Jose Manuel Castaneda Hernandez, worked as a geologist. "In truth, this has been very painful to be here, in a place where we don't want to be," his brother Jaime Castaneda told CBC, adding later: "There's no justice with what's happening." Portugal has elected a new president, following a campaign shaped as much by extreme weather as by politics, with centre-left veteran Antonio Jose Seguro winning a decisive run-off victory over far-right challenger Andre Ventura. With more than 99 percent of ballots counted on Sunday, Seguro secured just under 67 percent of the vote, comfortably ahead of Ventura on just over 33 percent. The result means the 63-year-old Socialist will succeed conservative incumbent Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, whose second and final term ends later this year. Advertisement Advertisement European leaders were quick to welcome the outcome. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said Portugal had shown that support for shared European values remained strong, while French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Seguro and said he hoped to strengthen ties between the two countries. Portugal votes in presidential election battered by deadly storms Storm-hit campaign tests democracy The presidential contest unfolded against the backdrop of two weeks of violent storms that battered Portugal, killing at least seven people and causing an estimated four billion euros in damage. Flooding and power cuts disrupted daily life across wide areas of the country and inevitably upended the election campaign. Advertisement Advertisement In around 20 of the worst-affected constituencies, voting was postponed by a week, though the election went ahead for the vast majority of Portugals nearly 11 million eligible voters, including those living abroad. Ventura, leader of the Chega party, criticised the governments handling of the crisis and unsuccessfully called for the entire vote to be delayed. Despite the disruption, turnout held up well. As results came in, Seguro struck a conciliatory tone. The winners tonight are the Portuguese people and democracy, he said, pledging to serve as a president for all Portuguese. Ventura conceded defeat but highlighted what he described as a historic result for his party. Addressing supporters, the 43-year-old said Chega now led the Portuguese right and would one day govern the country. Veteran returns as the far right advances Seguros victory marks a significant political comeback. A long-time Socialist and former party leader, he began his career in the partys youth wing and rose steadily through its ranks. Advertisement Advertisement In 2014, he lost an internal power struggle and was pushed out as secretary general by Antonio Costa, who later became prime minister and is now president of the European Council. For much of the past decade, Seguro remained largely out of the public eye, though he continued to argue for what he has called a modern and moderate left. He launched his presidential bid without the initial backing of the Socialist Party leadership, but most senior figures gradually rallied behind him as his poll numbers improved. Portugal marks 50 years of democracy with far right on rise Casting his ballot in Caldas da Rainha, where he lives, Seguro urged voters to take advantage of a brief lull in the storms. Come and vote. Make the most of this window of good weather, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Ventura campaigned on a promise to break with what he described as the parties that have governed Portugal for the past 50 years. In the January first round, contested by 11 candidates, Seguro finished first with over 31 percent ahead of Ventura on 23.5 percent making him the first far-right candidate to reach a presidential run-off in Portugal. Since then, Chega only founded in 2019 has continued its rapid rise, becoming the leading opposition force at the May 2025 general election. Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, whose minority centre-right government depends on support from either the Socialists or Chega, declined to endorse either candidate. (with newswires) By Laurie Chen BEIJING, Feb 9 (Reuters) - China's top court has overturned a Canadian man's death sentence on drug charges, his lawyer said on Monday, marking a breakthrough in a case that has strained diplomatic relations between Ottawa and Beijing for years. Robert Schellenberg was arrested in China in 2014 for suspected drug smuggling and convicted in 2018, initially receiving a 15-year prison sentence. He was subsequently condemned to death in a January 2019 retrial - one month after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Vancouver on a U.S. warrant. Advertisement Advertisement China's Supreme People's Court on Friday ruled against a death sentence passed by the lower court, Beijing-based lawyer Zhang Dongshuo told Reuters. The case will be sent to Liaoning Provincial High People's Court for retrial, he said. The breakthrough came less than a month after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made a four-day visit to China, where he hailed both countries' improving ties after they had soured under Canada's previous leader Justin Trudeau. A spokesperson for Canada's foreign ministry told Reuters they were aware of the Supreme Court's decision and would continue providing consular services to Schellenberg and his family, without elaborating on the decision. "Judging from both countries' official remarks after the Canadian prime minister visited China, the likelihood of the Supreme Court's decision (being related) is very high, according to my experience," said Zhang. Advertisement Advertisement However, he added that the possibility of Schellenberg being eventually acquitted was not high, given the severity of the original sentence. "Chinese judicial organs independently heard the relevant case and issued a judgement in accordance with the law," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said during a briefing on Monday when asked about Schellenberg's case. Four Canadian citizens were executed by China last year on drug smuggling charges, Canada said at the time. Schellenberg's death sentence had been upheld by the Liaoning court in 2021 after an appeal hearing, drawing condemnation from Ottawa at the time. Advertisement Advertisement China had detained two Canadians on spying accusations shortly after Meng was detained, prompting international accusations of hostage diplomacy. They were released in 2021 on the same day the U.S. dropped its extradition request for Meng and she returned to China. Diplomatic ties were further strained after Canada's government imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024, following similar U.S. curbs. China retaliated last March with tariffs on more than $2.6 billion of Canadian farm and food products, such as canola oil and meal, followed by tariffs on canola seed in August. After Carney's visit, both countries agreed to slash tariffs on EVs and canola in a major reversal of previous policy. Advertisement Advertisement Analysts say the rapprochement between Canada and China could reshape the political and economic context in which Sino-U.S. rivalry unfolds, although Ottawa is not expected to dramatically pivot away from Washington. (Reporting by Laurie Chen in Beijing; Additional reporting by Allison Lampert in Montreal and Beijing newsroom; Editing by Lincoln Feast.) BEIJING, Feb 9 (Reuters) - China's policy towards Japan will not be changed by one particular election, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's coalition swept to victory in an election on Sunday, paving the way for promised tax cuts and military spending. Takaichi sparked a diplomatic row with Beijing in November after she said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could amount to a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and potentially trigger a military response. Advertisement Advertisement China claims sovereignty over democratically governed Taiwan. The island's government rejects that claim. China urges Japan's prime minister to withdraw her remarks on Taiwan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing on Monday. (Reporting by Ethan Wang and Joe Cash; Editing by Christopher Cushing) Hong Kong Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in prison in the longest punishment given so far under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the city's dissent. Lai, 78, was convicted in December of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security, and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. The maximum penalty for his conviction was life imprisonment. His co-defendants, six former employees of his Apple Daily newspaper and two activists, received prison terms of between 6 years and 3 months, and 10 years on collusion-related charges. Lai smiled and waved at his supporters when he arrived for the sentence. But before he left the courtroom, he looked serious, as some people in the public gallery cried. When asked about whether they would appeal, his lawyer Robert Pang said no comment. The democracy advocate's arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence. The government insists the case has nothing to do with a free press, saying the defendants used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed China and Hong Kong. The Free Press: Natan Sharansky: Jimmy Lai's Sentence Tests the Free World Lai was one of the first prominent figures to be arrested under the security law in 2020. Within a year, some of Apple Daily's senior journalists also were arrested and the newspaper shut down in June 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Family warns Lai "will die a martyr behind bars" In a statement, Lai's son, Sebastien, said the "draconian" prison term was devastating for his family and life-threatening for his father. "It signifies the total destruction of the Hong Kong legal system and the end of justice," he said. Sebastien Lai Sung-yan, son of jailed Hong Kong media mogul and democracy advocate Jimmy Lai, speaks during an interview in London, Dec. 15, 2025, after his father (seen on the poster) was found guilty in his national security trial. / Credit: HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP/Getty (HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP/Getty) His sister Claire called the sentence "heartbreakingly cruel" in the same statement. "If this sentence is carried out, he will die a martyr behind bars," she said. Lai has been in custody for more than five years already. In January, his lawyer Pang said Lai suffered health issues including heart palpitations, high blood pressure and diabetes. Advertisement Advertisement The prosecution said a medical report noted Lai's general health condition remained stable. The government claimed Lai had requested to be held in solitary confinement. Lai's sentence condemned around the world Lai's sentencing could heighten Beijing's diplomatic tension with foreign governments, which have criticized Lai's conviction and sentencing. President Trump, who is expected to visit China in April, said in December that he felt "so badly" after the verdict was handed down, and he noted that he had spoken with Chinese leader Xi Jinping about Lai and asked him "to consider his release." In a statement shared by the State Department on Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the sentence "an unjust and tragic conclusion to this case." Advertisement Advertisement "It shows the world that Beijing will go to extraordinary lengths to silence those who advocate fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong," Rubio said, adding that "after enduring a trial lasting two years, and detention in prison for more than five, Mr. Lai and his family have suffered enough. The United States urges the authorities to grant Mr. Lai humanitarian parole." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government also has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. U.K. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the prosecution "politically motivated," saying the prison term is tantamount to a life sentence. Human Rights Watch's Asia Director Elaine Pearson said the harsh 20-year-sentence is effectively a death sentence, calling it cruel and unjust. Chinese leaders say Lai's sentence "deeply gratifying" Advertisement Advertisement Hong Kong leader John Lee said Lai's sentence demonstrated the rule of law, calling the crimes he was convicted of "heinous and evil in the extreme." The newspaper mogul's "heavy sentence of 20 years' imprisonment demonstrates the rule of law, upholds justice and is deeply gratifying," Lee said in a statement. Media mogul Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of Apple Daily, is detained in Hong Kong, Aug. 10, 2020. / Credit: TYRONE SIU/REUTERS Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China's foreign ministry in Beijing, said Lai was "a key planner and participant in a series of anti-China and disruptive activities in Hong Kong," and lauded the sentencing as "reasonable, legitimate, and legal," adding: "There is no room for argument." Lin urged "relevant countries" to respect the rule of law in Hong Kong. Lai prosecuted under China's broad new security law Advertisement Advertisement Lai founded Apple Daily, a now-defunct newspaper known for its critical reports against the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing. He was arrested in August 2020 under the security law that was used in a yearslong crackdown on many of Hong Kong's leading activists. In their ruling, three government-vetted judges wrote that the starting point of Lai's sentence was increased because they found him to be the mastermind of the conspiracies. But they also reduced his penalty because they accepted that Lai's age, health condition and solitary confinement would cause his prison life to be more burdensome than that of other inmates. "Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence," they said. "As regards the others, it is difficult to distinguish their relative culpability." They took into account that Lai is serving a prison term of five years and nine months in a separate fraud case and ruled that 18 years of Lai's sentence in the security case should be served consecutively to that prison term. A chilling effect on China's journalists and academics Urania Chiu, lecturer in law at Oxford Brookes University, said the case is significant for its broad construction of seditious intent and application of the term "collusion with foreign forces" to certain activities by the media. The implication is particularly alarming for journalists and those working in academia, she said. "Offering and publishing legitimate critiques of the state, which often involves engagement with international platforms and audiences, may now easily be construed as 'collusion,'" Chiu said. The former Apple Daily staffers and activists involved in Lai's case entered guilty pleas, which helped reduce their sentences Monday. They earlier admitted to the prosecution charge that said they conspired with Lai to request foreign forces to impose sanctions or blockades, or engage in other hostile activities against Hong Kong or China. The convicted journalists are publisher Cheung Kim-hung, associate publisher Chan Pui-man, editor-in-chief Ryan Law, executive editor-in-chief Lam Man-chung, executive editor-in-chief responsible for English news Fung Wai-kong and editorial writer Yeung Ching-kee. They received prison terms ranging between six years and nine months, to 10 years. The two activists, Andy Li and Chan Tsz-wah, were sentenced to six years and three months, and seven years and three months respectively. The penalties for Cheung, Chan and Yeung, alongside the two activists, were reduced in part because they served as prosecution witnesses and the judges said their evidence had "significantly" contributed to the conviction of Lai. Before sunrise, dozens of people stood in line outside the court building to secure a seat in the courtroom. One of them was former Apple Daily employee Tammy Cheung. "Whatever happens, it's an end at least we'll know the outcome," Cheung said before the sentence was delivered. Lai founded Apple Daily in 1995, two years before the former British colony returned to Chinese rule. Its closure in 2021 shocked the local press scene. Hong Kong ranked 140th out of 180 territories in the press-freedom index compiled by media freedom organization Reporters Without Borders in 2025, far from its 18th place in 2002. Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn crashes seconds into race Shock over Lindsey Vonn's Olympic crash; Trump calls Hunter Hess a loser for comments on politics More details emerge on whistleblower complaint against Tulsi Gabbard (Corrects the title of prosecutor from the acting chief prosecutor to deputy prosecutor in paragraph 12) By Alex Lefkowitz SOFIA, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Six people were found dead in the mountains of western Bulgaria over the past week, in a case marked by conflicting accounts and strange circumstances that led a prosecutor to liken the two triple deaths to the 1990s mystery series "Twin Peaks". Advertisement Advertisement "This is a case without comparison in our country," Zahari Vaskov, the director of the national police general directorate, told a press conference on Monday. Prosecutors suspect the deaths may have been murder-suicides or suicides, a lack of clarity that has fuelled speculation and conspiracy theories among Bulgarians. On Sunday, the police discovered the bodies of three people, including a 15-year-old boy, in a camper van in the Okolchitsa Peak area. Investigators believe they were connected to a triple killing that took place a week earlier by a mountain hut near Petrohan, which was later burned down. The hut was used as the base of a non-governmental organisation devoted to nature protection, though some accounts have also described its members as "forest rangers" who for years patrolled the area near the Serbian border and assisted border police. Advertisement Advertisement Five of the dead were members of the National Agency for Control of Protected Areas NGO and had lived at the hut, police said. The boy was the son of a friend. No member of the group could be reached for comment. Police released CCTV footage from outside the hut recorded on February 1, the day of the killings, showing all six deceased bidding each other farewell. The three who remained at the hut were later filmed setting it on fire. Police said the NGO members were involved in Tibetan Buddhism, adding that Buddhist books and banners were found inside the hut. Police also cited a relative of one member who spoke of "exceptional psychological instability" within the group. Advertisement Advertisement Four shell casings, two handguns and a rifle were found near the bodies, police said, and forensic experts determined that shots were fired from close range. Police later tracked down the other trio, only to find them dead in the camper van. Two of the dead had head injuries, while the autopsy of the third was still ongoing. "We can conclude, for both investigations, that one of the main versions that we are working on is murder-suicide and suicide," said Natalia Nikolova, the deputy prosecutor at the Appeal Prosecutor's Office in the capital Sofia. (Reporting by Alex Lefkowitx, writing by Daria Sito-Sucic; Editing by Ros Russell) A weekend shooting in Columbia resulted in a man's death. Police were called about 9:20 p.m. Feb. 7 to the 700 block of North Garth Street. The Oak Towers apartment building is at this general address. Police found Vasshon Haywood, 48, of Columbia, with a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was taken to a local hospital, where he later died. His next of kin was notified. Around the same time Michael Graham, 66, of Columbia, was taken into custody on suspicion of second-degree murder, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, stealing, possession of a controlled substance, and tampering with physical evidence. Further court information was not yet available Monday morning, Feb. 9. Advertisement Advertisement Police requested people avoid the area during the investigation Saturday night. They also continue to investigate the incident and ask anyone with more information to call the department at 573-874-7652 or they can call CrimeStoppers at 573-875-8477 or an online tip at www.p3tips.com/899 to remain anonymous. Information to CrimeStoppers which leads to an arrest could be eligible for an up to $2,500 cash reward. This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Shooting in Columbia leaves 48-year-old man dead, suspect arrested The Judicial Nominating Commission for the 10th Judicial Circuit is seeking applications for openings on the county and circuit court. The commission will forward nominees to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to fill vacancies created by the retirements of Polk County Judge Robert Griffin and Circuit Judge Ellen Masters, as well as the creation of a new circuit judge position by the Florida Legislature. Griffin retired on Oct. 31, and Masters will retire Feb. 28. All applicants must submit applications by 5 p.m. on Feb. 13. Both unredacted and redacted applications in PDF format should be sent to Commission Chair Julie Landrigan Ball at jball@hardinpalaw.com. Applicants must indicate in the title of each submitted PDF and on the first page of each application whether they are applying for the County Court or Circuit Court seat. Advertisement Advertisement Interviews will be conducted during the week of March 2. Applicants must meet the qualifications for county or circuit court judges described in Article V, Section 8 of the Florida Constitution. Applications are available at and may be downloaded from the Florida Bars website at www.floridabar.org, and the Office of the Governor at www.flgov.com. This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Apply by Feb. 13 for three judge openings in 10th Circuit. Here's how Siberian cranes are pictured at Poyang Lake wetland in east China's Jiangxi Province, Nov. 18, 2025. (Photo by Yu Qiwen/Xinhua) NANCHANG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- It was not yet sunrise, but Yu Qiwen was already on the move. Inside his home near the shore of Poyang Lake, he steadied himself with both hands and then shifted into an electric wheelchair. One hand nudged the control lever back and forth, while the other checked his equipment. "Binoculars. Camera. Drone. All set," he noted to himself. When the door opened, cold air rushed in, reddening Yu's face within seconds. Yu, 48, is a patrol ranger in Duchang County, east China's Jiangxi Province. From a wheelchair, he helps watch over China's largest freshwater lake, a vast wetland where Siberian cranes cross winter skies, Yangtze finless porpoises surface without warning, and milu deer, also known as Pere David's deer, walk quietly across exposed flats. "I do not do this alone," Yu said. Two fellow villagers patrol with him, watching the lake's edge through binoculars. At high water, Poyang Lake spreads across more than 4,000 square kilometers, sustaining over ten million people who live around its rim. Duchang alone accounts for roughly a third of the lake's waters, with most of its townships facing the shoreline directly. Each winter, migratory birds arrive there in waves. For species such as Pere David's deer, Poyang Lake is part of its historical range. Winter patrols are demanding. At this time of year, biting winds can make it hard to keep one's eyes open. "We're usually up before six," Yu revealed, his tone relaxed. "A normal patrol is about 17 kilometers. On longer days, nearly 40 kilometers round trip." During the dry season, the lake retreats and mudflats emerge, with faint twin tracks visible, curving across the sand. These tracks are the marks left by Yu's wheelchair. "Just over a month ago, I spotted Pere David's deer here," he said, gesturing toward wetlands near the waters of Zhenzhu Lake, which form part of Poyang Lake. Once widespread across eastern China, this species nearly vanished more than a century ago, with some surviving in a European estate. In 2018, 47 deer were released into the surrounding wetlands at Poyang Lake. According to wildlife authorities in Jiangxi, the population has since grown to about 80. "I first noticed their traces in 2021," Yu said, scrolling through photos on his phone. "They shed antlers around the winter solstice. Calves are born in May. Last year I photographed seven. Two were fawns." The deer are cautious and hard to approach. "If I spot them through binoculars, I use the drone," he said. "But never close. I keep at least 1.5 kilometers away." Birds require even more restraint. "No drones at all, only long lenses." His phone gallery offers quiet evidence of time spent observing: deer running freely across open flats, white-naped cranes stepping with measured calm, and oriental white stork standing tall in winter light. Asked why he became a patrol ranger, Yu answered without hesitation: "The lake is my home." A photography enthusiast, he often spends entire days outdoors, watching and recording. A traffic accident in 2016 left Yu with limited mobility, but it could not reduce the size of his world. Via a wheelchair, a three-wheeled vehicle and a drone, Yu continues to patrol and document wildlife. Outside his home hangs a sign identifying it as a wildlife observation base affiliated with Jiangxi's bird loving association. Birdwatchers stop by regularly. Villagers and photographers, he said, now alert authorities when injured or sick animals are found. Across Jiangxi, wildlife protection has evolved into a coordinated effort combining legislation, monitoring and public participation. Infrared cameras and thermal remote sensing support night patrols, while experienced rangers like Yu extend conservation work to the lake's edge. This change has not gone unnoticed by outsiders. Victor Wright, a French anthropologist at Peking University and a longtime friend of Yu's, has been conducting fieldwork around Poyang Lake for more than a year. In a social media post in January, he wrote that what he was seeing was "a richer, more diverse and more vivid environment." On Yu's way home, winter sunlight settled over the shallows, where cormorants and oriental white storks were gathered. Yu lifted his camera and pressed the shutter. He kept watch, while also capturing the magic that is Poyang Lake. This photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows the Milu deer running at Poyang Lake wetland in east China's Jiangxi Province. (Photo by Yu Qiwen/Xinhua) Officials believe a prominent wolf was illegally killed near Yellowstone National Park, and the incident has led Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to launch a poaching investigation. What's happening? As Smithsonian Magazine reported, the wolf killing allegedly occurred just north of Yellowstone on Dec. 25. Park officials received notification from the wolf's collar after it had been cut off and left in the woods. Although wolf hunting is legal in some areas, the incident site was within Montana's wolf management area, which is closed to hunting. Advertisement Advertisement Wildlife advocates have reported the missing wolf as a female known as 1478F. She was a member of a frequently viewed wolf pack and was known for her superb hunting and leadership skills. Wolves of the Rockies wrote in a Facebook post that she "showed the traits biologists look for in a future leader." Why are illegal wolf killings a problem? Tracking data showed that 1478F was a unique wolf whom packmates relied on for hunting and survival. Her presumed killing has also highlighted the broader issue of wolf hunting in America. Wolves and other predators play essential ecological roles in keeping prey populations in check. In and around Yellowstone, wolves help control the elk population, which benefits other native animals and plants. Advertisement Advertisement Until the mid-1900s, wolves were exterminated in Yellowstone National Park. Since then, scientists and advocates have worked together to reintroduce wolves to the area. This move remains controversial among conservationists, farmers, ranchers, and the general public. Federal agencies in the United States have authorized the killing of wolves in other regions, including Arizona. However, wolf reintroduction efforts have helped balance healthy ecosystems and delivered long-term ecological benefits. What's being done to protect wolves? If you are concerned about wolves, consider learning more about nonprofit animal groups such as the Large Carnivore Fund and Wolves of the Rockies. These organizations helped raise awareness and award money for any information available about the suspected poaching of 1478F. If you notice any suspicious behavior around wildlife in parks you visit or on nearby land, report what you see to local authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Consider taking local action by volunteering your time or donating money to conservation groups working to protect wolves and other critical species. Fortunately, many wolf protection and reintroduction efforts are underway in states such as North Carolina and Colorado, as well as in other areas where wolves live. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. News of Hailey Buzbee's disappearance spread across the country when her missing persons case out of Fishers, Indiana, was shared all over social media by creators on platforms like TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. The initial investigation by Fishers Police would stretch to other agencies, including the FBI, Indiana State Police, Columbus Police Department and the Hocking County Sheriff's Office in Ohio. Fishers Police believe Buzbee may have died within days of being picked up from her home by Tyler Thomas, 39, who drove her across state lines. Based on federal court documents, Thomas communicated with Buzbee on Session, Discord and Snapchat. He was also found with sexually explicit material depicting underage girls, including Buzbee, on his phone. Advertisement Advertisement Here's the timeline so far on what happened to Hailey Buzbee, based on interviews conducted by IndyStar, the Columbus Dispatch and official court documents. This article will update as more information becomes available. Hailey Buzbees stepmother Ronya Buzbee (left) and father Beau Buzbee stand during a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Chris Jeter, R-Fishers, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Sen. Kyle Walker, R-Lawrence, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, D-Fishers, (left) shows off her pink nail polish she wore in Hailey Buzbees honor to her stepmother Ronya Buzbee (center) and father Beau Buzbee during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, D-Fishers, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston (right) shakes hands with Hailey Buzbees father Beau Buzbee following a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana lawmakers speak on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbee's death 1 of 7 Hailey Buzbees stepmother Ronya Buzbee (left) and father Beau Buzbee stand during a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Hailey Buzbee: A timeline of events in her case June 5, 2025: Bank records obtained through a search warrant revealed that Thomas had charges at the family-owned restaurant in Fortville, Indiana, where Buzbee worked, according to federal court documents. July 1, 2025: Snapchat messages between Buzbee and Thomas showcase they planned to call each other, according to federal court documents released on Feb. 10, 2026, that showed the teen stating, "If neither parents are home, I can probably call till like 5." The correspondence suggests that they were already familiar with each other. July 2, 2025: A photo from Thomas's phone captured the two in his car, according to federal documents released Feb. 10, 2026. The records state that his cellphone placed a call near a tower in Fortville, Indiana. Jan. 5, 2026: Hailey Buzbee's parents last saw her at 10 p.m. at their home in the Enclave at Vermillion Neighborhood. Officials believe the teen left the house sometime in the early morning hours of Jan. 6 between 2:30 a.m. and 5 a.m., and technology later helped them discover Thomas picking her up in his Acura with an Indiana license plate. Jan. 6, 2026: Federal court documents state that cache data shows Thomas was driving back to Ohio around 4 a.m. According to documents filed in the Franklin County Municipal Court in Ohio, sexual offenses took place between Thomas and Buzbee that were recorded on his cellphone at his home in the 900 block of Hunter Avenue in Columbus, Ohio, and at an Airbnb, which means he drove the teen over 160 miles across state lines. Jan. 7, 2026 : Thomas' cellphone traveled that morning to the North Country Trail Trailhead in Wayne National Forest southeast of Columbus and stayed there until 2:15 p.m., according to federal court documents released Feb. 10. Buzbee's body would later be found buried in the area. 12:06 p.m., Jan. 7: The Fishers Police Department shared its first missing persons post for Hailey Buzbee. Fishers Police also requested assistance from Columbus Police in Ohio about the case after discovering video footage of Thomas picking up Hailey Buzbee from her home. 1:20 p.m., Jan. 7: In the first post about his daughter missing, Beau Buzbee reshared the department's announcement stating, She may not be close to home, so trying to get this message out as far as we can." Jan. 11: Beau Buzbee posts, Hailey is still missing. We believe she didnt act alone and is in a dangerous situation. Jan. 15: Columbus Police were contacted again about assisting with Hailey Buzbee's case. Police reports for the department highlight another person of interest in the case, located at the Ohio home where Thomas lived on Hunter Avenue. Jan. 16: Columbus Police reports state that officers made contact at the Hunter Avenue home with Fishers detectives. Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart said Thomas admitted to picking Hailey Buzbee up at her home, but told investigators he dropped her off on the side of a road in western Ohio. Gebhart said continued investigations determined that not to be true. Jan. 17: The Fishers Police Department upgraded Hailey Buzbee's case to an "endangered" missing juvenile. Jan. 21: A search warrant was issued by the Columbus Police Department's Homicide Unit, and more evidence was collected in the vehicle and the home of Tyler Thomas. According to police reports, Thomas exited the home minutes after initially refusing. Evidence also showed Hailey Buzbee was at an Airbnb in Hocking County, Ohio, according to Fishers Police, who said that the Hocking County Sheriff's Office also conducted search efforts the same day. Jan. 26: According to a probable cause affidavit for his arrest, Thomas told detectives that he been talking to the teen for more than a year on the encrypted messaging app Session. Jan. 31: According to court documents, several sexually explicit images of Hailey Buzbee were found on Thomas's phone with a timestamp of Jan. 6. Thomas was charged with pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor in Columbus, Ohio. Thomas was also accused of tampering with evidence because police discovered he'd attempted to delete the files. Feb. 1: In a news conference, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness shares that after an extensive investigation, officials believe Hailey is dead. Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart said that investigators identified an Acura in Buzbee's neighborhood when she went missing, and were able to tie it to Thomas. That same day, investigators found the teenager's remains off a trailhead in a wooded area at Wayne National Forest in Perry, Ohio, according to the lawyer for Thomas. Feb. 2 : DNA samples concluded that the remains were of Buzbee. Thomas has his initial court hearing. His bond is set at $1.5 million. According to federal court documents, a second search of the Airbnb revealed potential traces of blood. Feb. 9: Buzbee's father and stepmother attended a news conference at the Indiana Statehouse related to legislative efforts to restrict teen social media use. That same day court documents connected to the case reveal Buzbee and Thomas communicated for months on the app, Session. Feb. 10: Federal charges are filed against Thomas. Advertisement Advertisement Hailey Buzbee-Tyler Thomas connection? What we know on Hailey Buzbee body found Has Tyler Thomas been charged with murder? As of 5 p.m. on Feb. 10, no charge of murder has been filed against Thomas or anyone else related to her case. Jade Jackson is a Public Safety Reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formerly Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON. Jim Wilhelm and Bethany Bruner with The Columbus Dispatch contributed to this article. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Full Hailey Buzbee timeline, what we know about Tyler Thomas ALBANY - Attorneys for Congressional Republican candidate Anthony Constantino's campaign sent a cease-and-desist letter to rival Robert Smullen, accusing the state assemblyman of making false claims that the North Country printing company CEO did not pay taxes in multiple states. The Feb. 6 letter, written by New York-based law firm BakerHostetler, threatens legal action unless Smullen retracts statements made on a radio program, on a website created by Smullen's campaign, and at a news conference last week. Advertisement Advertisement Smullen and Constantino are seeking the Republican nomination to represent the North Country district being vacated by U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik. The assemblyman has until Tuesday to respond, the letter said, although Smullen's campaign appears to be standing by its comments. "It should come as no surprise that Anthony Constantino is accusing me of lying about his tax record," Smullen said through a campaign spokesman. "This is typical of him. Unfortunately for him, I won't be intimidated and the facts are clearly on our side." Smullen has alleged that Constantino had tax liens in multiple states totaling more than $14,000 and provided evidence that the CEO of Sticker Mule had been taken to court for unpaid taxes. Constantino has denied that he has tax liens, saying that he and outside accountants tried to locate the alleged liens and couldn't find evidence of them. Advertisement Advertisement In the letter, Constantino's attorneys conceded that he was the subject of a tax lien in Kansas for less than two months and fully satisfied his obligation. "You were unquestionably aware that Mr. Constantino is not currently delinquent on any taxes, let alone failing to pay taxes in multiple states' or subject to tax liens in four states,'" the letter says. It also accuses Smullen and his campaign of failing to properly investigate their assertions. The website created by Smullen's campaign does not note that the liens were satisfied. However, placards at a Smullen news conference last week clarify that the Kansas and Wyoming tax liens, related to individual income taxes and unpaid unemployment taxes, were satisfied. Constantino's letter mentions earlier instances of Smullen making comments about his taxes. Advertisement Advertisement The letter cites an interview last month on WGY News Radio with Bob Lonsberry, in which Smullen said Constantino "has tax liens in four different states." The letter said that Smullen provided no evidence to support those allegations, and that the lawmaker allegedly hung up on Constantino's attorney when she called to discuss the matter with him. "Because you made the statements about Mr. Constantino knowing that they were false and with the intent to damage Mr. Constantino's reputation as a businessman and political candidate, you are liable for punitive damages," the letter said. Constantino's letter also attacked Smullen on his own tax dealings. Advertisement Advertisement The assemblyman was arrested in 2018 on charges of felony tax evasion related to a veterans' property tax abatement issue. Smullen, a retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel, pleaded guilty the following year to a lesser charge. He has said the charges stemmed from a political dispute that arose during his Assembly campaign. "Your personal tax problems are well-documented," the letter said, suggesting that this will be a factor when Republicans cast ballots during June's primary election. "These problems do not, however, give you license to falsely accuse your political opponents of tax improprieties." Smullen has represented the Mohawk Valley and Adirondack region since 2018. In his statement, Smullen said the primary race "is not about tax liens, it never has been. It's about Anthony Constantino lying to voters about his prior unpaid taxes and if he's lying to you about this, what else is he lying to you about?" This article originally published at Constantino campaign threatens to sue Smullen over tax claims. A video of a majestic Florida panther drew attention to the endangered species on social media. What's happening? The clip posted to Facebook was taken by a venomous snake relocator and showed the large panther standing in the middle of a road before walking off into the woods. The video ends with a closer shot of the panther through the trees. In the caption, the user explained: "We were on our way home from a rattlesnake call when we turned on our street and saw what appeared to be a large dog at first. We quickly realized it was a critically endangered Florida panther." Advertisement Advertisement They went on to explain the significance of this sighting, stating: "There are only about 200 Florida panthers remaining in the wild. We are lucky enough to live in the heart of their last remaining habitats." While it can be exciting to spot this rare animal, their proximity to people is one of the reasons the species is in trouble. Human expansion throughout Florida has encroached on many animals' natural habitats, including the pinelands and swampy forests that panthers inhabit. This means less space for the panthers to thrive and a higher chance of seeing one walk down the street, often resulting in panther deaths. Tragically, 36 panthers were killed in 2024, many due to car collisions. Why are Florida panthers important? Beyond being the official state animal, they're also an apex predator in their ecosystem. They help maintain ecological balance by controlling prey populations, as they hunt deer and wild hogs. Advertisement Advertisement Without panthers, those populations could grow out of control and overgraze, decimating vegetation and depleting food sources for many other creatures. The panthers' presence keeps the food chain in check so every native animal can survive. This video is one example of how the big cats are showing up in developed areas. They've been pushed out of their own habitats and need somewhere to go. What's being done to protect Florida panthers? The Florida panther is a federally protected endangered species, so officials are working to bolster the population. Trail cameras that capture footage of the cats inform conservation efforts and protection policies. You can help this beautiful creature by reporting sightings to local authorities and by donating to or supporting conservation efforts in the Florida Wildlife Corridor. When you're in panther territory, drive with caution, as you never know when a panther might cross the road. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. The suspect in the disappearance of 17-year-old Fishers resident Hailey Buzbee allegedly admitted to communicating with the teenager for over a year before her death. According to court documents, 39-year-old Tyler Thomas was detained Wednesday, Jan. 21 outside of his home in the 900 block of Hunter Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. During a custodial interview, court documents say Thomas admitted to communicating with Buzbee for over a year using online gaming platforms and an encrypted messaging application called Session. Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say Thomas told detectives he used Session to plan Buzbee's runaway attempt and transport. According to court documents, Thomas also admitted that he used GPS/navigation applications on his phone to navigate from Indiana to Ohio while transporting Buzbee. Court documents say Thomas told detectives that Session requires a specific code or string of numbers to access or recover account data, and he said that deleting this code would prevent police from seeing the messages. Court documents say Thomas admitted to driving a black 2014 Acura RDX to transport Buzbee from Fishers to Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Thomas told detectives that he traveled to a rental cabin in Logan, Ohio, on Jan. 6 and claimed to be alone at the cabin, however, rental records indicate the reservation was for "two guests." Court documents say Thomas' vehicle has been seized by police and is currently at the Columbus Police Department. Thomas currently faces formal charges of tampering with evidence and pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor. A judge set a $1.5 million cash surety bond for Thomas, and his next court date is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 10. Buzbee's remains were found in Perry County, Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Feb. 2, Columbus, Ohio police told 13News that they believe Buzbee was killed at a short-term rental in Hocking County in Ohio, which is about 50 miles southwest of Columbus. Columbus police said, "Additional charges from the Hocking County Sheriff's Office are expected." When Hailey went missing On Jan. 6, officers were called to the Buzbee's home in the Enclave at Vermillion neighborhood, off 101st Street near Flat Fork Creek Park, after her parents reported that Buzbee had left their house overnight. Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart said his officers and detectives then "diligently began the process to locate her." During the investigation, police identified an unknown vehicle that had reportedly been in Buzbee's neighborhood the night she went missing. Gebhart said "within days" of Buzbee going missing, Fishers detectives identified a suspect later identified as Thomas as the person Buzbee had left with. Advertisement Advertisement Fishers police say officers made contact with Thomas in Ohio. Thomas reportedly admitted to picking Buzbee up at her home, but he allegedly told officers that he had dropped her off on the side of the road in western Ohio. Gebhart said officers later learned what Thomas had told them was untrue. Following additional investigations by the Columbus Police Department and Hocking County Sheriff's Office in Ohio, a search warrant was executed at Thomas' home and on the vehicle he allegedly picked Buzbee up in. The investigation further showed Buzbee was at Thomas' house in Columbus, Ohio, and at a short-term rental property in Hocking County, Ohio. The Hocking County Sheriff's Office then executed a search warrant at the short-term rental property and continued to use drones, K-9s and physical search techniques in an attempt to find Buzbee. Advertisement Advertisement Gebhart said Thomas is in police custody in Ohio on charges associated with this case, but police say Thomas has not been charged with murder at this time. According to court documents, Thomas is facing charges of tampering with evidence and pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor. Court documents say detectives obtained a search warrant at Thomas' home and seized his devices, where child sex abuse material containing images of Buzbee were located. Following remarks by FBI Indianapolis Office Special Agent Tim O'Malley, Gebhart shared additional information on the case, saying that Buzbee and Thomas are believed to have met each other via online gaming. Gebhart said investigators think Buzbee died "within a few days after she was picked up." Advertisement Advertisement No personal items from Buzbee have been recovered, according to police. "This is not the outcome that any of us had wanted," Gebhardt said. "We have connected her parents with resources that will help them, and we will stay committed to supporting her family through this tragic time." What is Session? Session is an Australian, currently Switzerland-based, application that describes itself as an "end-to-end encrypted messenger that protects your private data. A decentralized app designed, built and operated by a global community of privacy experts." According to the Apple App Store, Session can't leak or sell its users data, and with the app's private routing protocols, messages are completely anonymous. The crew of a new CalMac ferry have helped save a man from the sea off from Morocco during a dramatic night time rescue. The MV Isle of Islay is currently making its way to Scotland after being built in a Turkish shipyard. The ferry had to leave its berth in Gibraltar due to stormy conditions and while in Moroccan waters the crew spotted a man in the water. The crew quickly deployed the fast rescue craft to recover him and get him onboard. Advertisement Advertisement The man was looked after onboard for "several days" before being handed over to Moroccan authorities. Louis de Wolff, CalMac's fleet management director, said: "CalMac crews are well-trained in acting fast to take part in rescues at sea, often supporting the coastguard in Scottish waters. "None of us expected MV Isle of Islay to be involved in a rescue so soon after being delivered, but it is testament to the professionalism of our crew that the individual was saved from dangerous sea and weather conditions in just a few minutes." Advertisement Advertisement The ferry, which is the first of four being built in Turkey, is facing difficult conditions on its journey to Scotland. Across several days last week, windspeeds in the local area were consistently higher than 30 knots and gusting at over 50 knots. The vessel sheltered off the east coast of Morocco before berthing at Almeria port over the weekend. It will remain there until later this week when an anticipated weather window will allow the vessel to sail to A Coruna in northern Spain. From there the ship will head across the Bay of Biscay which is known for its rough seas, to reach UK waters when there is a suitable weather window. Advertisement Advertisement De Wolff added: "We're bringing the vessel home in winter, when sea and weather conditions in the Mediterranean and North Atlantic, where we'll be headed next, are at their most treacherous. This has been compounded by a series of storms hitting the Iberian peninsula over the last two weeks. "The crew continue to do a first-class job in bringing her closer to Scotland and we will confirm arrival details nearer the time." When it arrives in Scotland the vessel, which can carry 450 passengers and 100 cars or 14 HGVs, will serve Islay and Jura. Cuban authorities have notified international airlines that they wont be able to refuel at the islands airports, as the countrys energy crisis deepens following President Donald Trumps steps to cut the islands oil supply in a push for negotiations. The Federal Aviation Administration published notices Sunday alerting U.S. airlines that Jet A-1 fuel, commonly used for international flights, will not be available at Cuban international airports, including those in Havana, Santiago de Cuba and Varadero, starting Tuesday, and wont be available again until March 11 at the earliest. No flights to Cuba from Miami were canceled Monday morning, but regular airlines and companies operating chartered flights were assessing the impact of the announcement. Advertisement Advertisement We are closely monitoring the situation, American Airlines, which operates 11 daily flights to six destinations in Cuba, said. The airline did not say whether it was expecting cancellations. Delta Air Lines said there was no operational impact on its flights to Havana at this time. Delta operates one daily round-trip flight from Miami to Havana. A representative of a charter flight company in Miami, who asked not be named to discuss the companys internal deliberations, said the company was assessing whether to reduce passenger and baggage loads on flights, so the planes could return from Havana without refueling. The company was not yet considering suspending flights, the representative added. Though Cuba has issued similar temporary warnings at other times of oil shortages, this time might be different. Advertisement Advertisement Cuban leaders said they havent received oil since December, when a U.S. armada blocked oil shipments from Venezuela bound for the island. Trump also recently signed an executive order to impose tariffs on Cubas oil suppliers, in a move to pressure Mexico to stop sending oil to the island. Consultancy data and analytics firm Kpler said Cuba received 84,900 barrels this year from a single Mexican shipment on Jan. 9. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed last week that the national petroleum company, Pemex, has halted shipments, waiting to find a diplomatic solution with the U.S. to resume the supply. The firm said Cubas oil reserves would be depleted by the end of this month, the Financial Times reported. The warning to airlines speaks to the critical situation on the island and may worsen the outlook for the tourism industry, one of Cubas main sources of foreign revenue that has been in decline as the countrys economic crisis deepened in recent years. On Friday, Cubas vice prime minister, Oscar Perez Oliva-Fraga, said the government is planning to compact tourists into a smaller number of hotels as part of an austerity plan that includes severe restrictions on public transportation especially between provinces a four-day work schedule for state workers, reduced school hours and the suspension of non-emergency surgeries. Advertisement Advertisement The government also halted sales of gasoline in Cuban pesos and rationed sales in dollars, a move that will likely affect food deliveries by Miami-based online supermarkets and private businesses. Oliva-Fraga reassured the population the country would not collapse, departing from the more alarming tone set by the countrys leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel, the day earlier. Diaz-Canel had warned the population that the fuel crisis would impact food distribution by the state too. We are going to eat what is produced in each place, he said. If there is less fuel now, food will not be able to be transported from one municipality to another. Advertisement Advertisement He also proposed that the population use solar ovens to cook, which prompted derision among many Cubans, who took to social media to question his remarks and his call for greater sacrifice in the name of the 67-year-old revolution. Its impossible to demand sacrifice (its high time we said it: sacrificing ones life) when some people are poor while others are rich, said Ulises Toirac, a comedian on the island. When some people are in utter destitution while others live in such opulence that they become disconnected from the rest of society. When theres no real understanding of what it means to say difficult times are coming at the worst possible moment in peoples lives. Hugo Cancio, a Cuban American from Miami who supported President Barack Obamas engagement policies and is the owner of Katapulk, an online supermarket that delivers food on the island, penned an openly critical editorial on his news site On Cuba criticizing Diaz-Canels speech. I would say it is no longer fair or reasonable to keep asking for sacrifices from people already living at the limit in order to sustain a dysfunctional system of government, Cancio told the Miami Herald. External pressures have undoubtedly had a real and negative impact, but regardless of circumstances, the fundamental responsibility of any government is to govern for the benefit of its people. Advertisement Advertisement When daily life becomes a struggle for the basics, asking for more effort without offering concrete solutions ceases to be leadership and becomes a profound disconnect from the reality people are living, he added. Despite calls for change from Cubans on the island and abroad, Cuban leaders have said they are ready to talk to the United States, but ruled out changes to its economic or political system. Even at this difficult moment, Cuban authorities continued arresting those who criticize the government on social media. The U.S. State Department called for the release of two influencers running social media accounts named El4tico who identify themselves as dissidents and have frequently referred to the Cuban government as a dictatorship. Advertisement Advertisement The illegitimate Cuban regime continues with its daily acts of repression and abuses. It detained #El4tico Kamil Zayas Perez and Ernesto Ricardo Medina in Holguin simply for speaking out about the dictatorships economic mismanagement, the State Departments Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs posted on X. Other young influencers on the island, including four wearing Make Cuba Great Again hats, have called for the release of the two influencers in videos circulating on social media. This time we are not going to stay silent, because we are all el4tico, Ana Sofia Benitez, a 21-year-old influencer who has gained a following exposing the governments double standards and the scarcities Cubans face, said on a video. You cannot silence us all. El Nuevo Herald reporter Veronica Egui Brito and Miami Herald reported Vinod Sreeharsha contributed to this report. One of Scotland's last surviving D-Day veterans has died aged 100. Albert Lamond, from Glasgow, was an 18-year-old signalman aboard HMS Rowley when he took part in the Allied invasion of Normandy on 6 June 1944. He also served in the lead up to VJ day the following year, helping to evacuate prisoners of war (PoWs) from remote islands in the Pacific and transport them to Australia. Lamond's family said he "never thought of himself as a hero" and believed he was "just doing his duty". Advertisement Advertisement His nephew, Martin, said: "Not only have Albert's friends and family suffered a great loss, everyone has, even if they never had the pleasure of knowing him. "Albert carried the memory of those who didn't make it with him throughout his life. "We are incredibly proud of him and grateful for the time we had." Lamond was born in Glasgow's east end and joined the Royal Navy in 1943. He was deployed to the coast of northern France a year later aboard HMS Rowley. The frigate's role was to act as a first line of defence by circling battleship HMS Warspite and it was expected that the sailors would sacrifice their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Lamond survived the experience, in which an estimated 4,400 Allied troops died. Albert joined the Royal Navy in 1943 - aged just 18 [PA Media] Marking the 80th anniversary of the landings in 2024, he said it was vital future generations understood the reality and cost of conflict. He said: "It was horrible. It lives with you forever. "If we don't pass the stories on, people will forget, and we can't let that happen." In 1945, he served in the Pacific in the lead up to Japan's surrender. He described the rescued PoWs as "like living skeletons," but said they were still able to smile. A short time later, Lamond was part of an American fleet sailing to invade Japan when victory was declared. Advertisement Advertisement "They dropped a bomb at Hiroshima and it was all called off," he said on the 75th anniversary of VJ day in 2020. "It was the end. It was a relief it was over and it was finished. It was good to get home." After the war, Lamond worked on the railways and later lived at the McKellar House in Renfrewshire, run by the Erskine veterans' charity. The organisation's chief executive, wing commander Ian Cumming, said he would never forget Lamond's "cheeky patter". He said: "Albert represented the very best of his generation. "He spoke honestly about his service, not to glorify war, but to make sure people understood its cost. "We won't forget the ever-present twinkle in Albert's eye. "We were truly privileged to care for and support him in later life." A man was shot and killed by Dallas police officers Sunday night after he reportedly tried to charge toward them while reaching for one of their guns, officials say. According to the Dallas Police Department, officers were called at about 7:36 p.m. to the 5100 block of Lemmon Avenue in response to a man wanting to hurt himself. Upon arrival, police say the suspect answered the door with a box cutter in his hand before slamming the door in the officers' faces. Advertisement Advertisement Police said the suspect could reportedly be heard saying "put away the taser...I want to get shot." At the same time, police say they could hear the suspect yell "this is your fault" at someone else in the apartment. Soon afterward, police say the suspect reportedly opened the door and charged at officers while reaching for one of their guns. Police shot at the suspect, hitting him in his chest, officials say. Officers rendered aid, and he was taken to a local hospital, but he later died. DPD says this is the third shooting involving officers this year. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Tom Homan: Mass deportations still happening. | Credit: John Moore / Getty Images What happened White House border czar Tom Homan announced that he was pulling 700 immigration agents from Minneapolis and refocusing the enforcement blitz there, as Democratic lawmakers demanded Congress place new restrictions on Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other agencies they say have descended into lawlessness. Homanwhom President Trump put in charge of the operation as outrage swelled over the killings of protesters Renee Good and Alex Pretticited unprecedented collaboration from local officials, who are allowing ICE to take custody of undocumented inmates before they are released from jails. He said there would be a shift away from broad street sweeps to operations focused on immigrants with criminal records. But Homan stressed that Trump was still committed to mass deportations. If you are in the country illegally, he said, you are not off the table. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called the reduction a step in the right direction, but noted that with about 2,000 agents still on the ground, it was not de-escalation. Homans announcement came a day after U.S. citizens who have been shot and violently detained by immigration agents testified at a Capitol Hill forum organized by Democrats. I struggle every day with the pain and the suffering, said Marimar Martinez, 30, a Chicagoan who was shot five times by a Border Patrol agent after she tailed the officers vehicle in her car. Goods brother Luke Ganger told the forum that federal agents aggressive actions are changing the community, and changing many lives, including ours, forever. House Democrats released a report slamming agents unlawful tactics, as lawmakers voted to end a partial government shutdown and negotiated over new accountability measures that would be built into a funding package for the Department of Homeland Security. DHS is completely out of control, said Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.). Congress has a responsibility to step in. Advertisement Advertisement In Portland, Ore., Mayor Keith Wilson demanded agents leave the city after they lobbed tear gas at demonstrators, including young children, engaging in a peaceful protest outside an ICE facility. In Minnesota, federal Judge Patrick Schiltz decried ICEs defiance of court orders, saying the agency has ignored at least 96 judicial directives this year. That should give pause to anyone, no matter his or her political beliefs, who cares about the rule of law, wrote the George W. Bush appointee. What the columnists said Tensions in the Twin Cities remain high, said Louis Krauss in The Minneapolis Star-Tribune, but residents, protesters, and city officials report a seeming change in agents tactics. They include fewer ICE caravans, fewer agents on foot rousting pedestrians, and fewer confrontations with protesters. But intense fights still break out daily between agents and protesters following them. Videos posted on social media this week showed agents pointing guns at observers trailing them in an SUV, forcing them out of the vehicle, and detaining them. In neighborhoods once alive with the pulse of immigrant communities, the crackdown has fractured families, rattled worried neighbors, and left residents feeling unsafe, said Alaa Elassar in CNN.com. Ryan Strandjord never imagined hed see his tree-lined, lake-dotted hometown transformed into a battleground by what he likens to a military occupation. U.S. citizens and immigrants alike are choosing to stay home and keep their kids out of school, he said. Theres just overall a feeling of fear and dread. Far from de-escalating, ICE is seeking to expand its authority, said Noah Feldman in Bloomberg. The agency has authorized officers to arrest anyone they suspect of being undocumented, even if agents lack a warrant and the person isnt a flight risk. That license for agents to grab just about anyone they want came on the heels of another legally indefensible memo, which said officers could enter homes of suspected undocumented migrants without a judicial warrant. It all reveals an agency bent on making its agents into an all-powerful police force. Advertisement Advertisement Judge Schiltz flags another alarming trend, said law professor Ryan Goodman in The New Yorkerthe growing lawlessness of an administration engaged in flagrant defiance of court orders. The nearly 100 cases Schiltz cited include repeated instances where the administration has refused orders to release detainees or present them in court, or has transferred them to other jurisdictions against direct orders. Their contempt of court is truly extraordinary and may be moving us toward a constitutional crisis. Such actions are unsettling Americans, and not just Democrats, said William A. Galston in The Wall Street Journal. More than a third of 2024 Trump voters said in a Politico poll that while they back the presidents mass deportation campaign, they disapprove of how its being done. In a Harvard/Harris poll, majorities said federal agents have gone too far and are violating civil liberties, while a Pew poll found that Americans by wide margins think it unacceptable for agents to stop and question people based on their appearance or the language they speak. Time will tell if the administrations de-escalation talk is sincere or just a cheap PR dodge, said Andrew Egger in The Bulwark. But even if its the former, these systems now have a logic of their own. Homeland Security has systematically built ICE into something that looks less like a disciplined law enforcement agency than a small paramilitary force, recruiting bigoted meatheads with anti-immigrant propaganda and sending them into U.S. cities with minimal training. Once youve created the monster, it wont be easily tamed. BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- China once again urges Japan to withdraw the erroneous remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan and demonstrate its basic sincerity in safeguarding the political foundation of China-Japan relations through concrete actions, a foreign ministry spokesperson said here Monday. Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing after Japan's ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party won more than a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives following Sunday's general election. Lin said elections are a domestic matter in Japan, but some deep-seated, structural issues and ideological trends reflected in this election were worthy of deep consideration by insightful people from all walks of life in Japan and the international community. The Department of Homeland Security is at risk of shutting down at the end of this week if lawmakers cant agree on a spending deal to either extend current funding temporarily or finish the budget for the 2026 fiscal year. Appropriators were prepared to pass the final funding bill last month as part of a larger spending package, but the DHS portion was later removed amid backlash to how federal immigration officers are operating in Minnesota, where two U.S. citizens were killed in separate incidents. Since then, Republicans and Democrats have not come to an agreement on how to keep the departments lights on meaning all federal funding will lapse this weekend if some sort of deal isnt passed. Democrats are largely refusing to fund the department until the White House agrees to place more guardrails on immigration officers. Party leaders released an official list of demands over the weekend, several of which Republicans have already rejected. Advertisement Advertisement But a DHS shutdown would have wide-ranging effects reaching far past just immigration policy. Here are the other agencies at risk of losing funding if another partial shutdown takes place. Transportation Security Administration One of the most crucial agencies covered by DHS funding is the Transportation Security Administration, which oversees safety and logistical operations at U.S. airports. If funding for DHS lapses, most employees will be deemed essential and must still work throughout the shutdown without pay. Depending on how long a shutdown lasts, that work puts an unusual strain on airport workers and can lead to employees calling out of their shifts due to fatigue, burnout or illness. When those staffers call out, it leads to delays in security screenings and more planes are grounded, meaning flights are delayed or canceled. Advertisement Advertisement Thats what happened during President Donald Trumps first term when the government was shut down for a then-record 35 days, leading to major problems for the countrys busiest airports when air traffic controllers and other employees began taking unscheduled leave. Trump eventually agreed to a short-term spending deal to reopen the department. FEMA Another major department funded under DHS funding is the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which is responsible for disaster preparedness, response and recovery nationwide. Like TSA, employees for FEMA are also considered essential so many will continue working without pay for as long as the shutdown lasts. That could lead to slower response times and disrupt coordination between state and local agencies if administrative staffs are reduced. That would be especially harmful if a new disaster occurred during a shutdown, as the agency could be delayed in deploying emergency teams and supplies to the area. Advertisement Advertisement A shutdown could also affect the Disaster Relief Fund, which could run low on money if new funding isnt allocated. That could lead to pauses in emergency aid in some states. U.S. Coast Guard The Coast Guard would also be affected under the DHS funding bill despite still operating as an essential department. Those missions range from search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, port and vessel security, and counterterrorism operations. In a shutdown, certain operations such as training, maintenance, and other nonessential activities can be delayed. Short-term projects can continue but any longer-term jobs would likely be sidelined until funding is restored. Administrative functions could also be slowed in a shutdown, meaning things such as pay and benefits could be delayed. Secret Service The Secret Service, the main security arm of the president and other leaders, would also be affected under a partial shutdown. Advertisement Advertisement Secret Service agents would still be considered essential but they would not get paid until appropriations are approved. The president, vice president, families, and major events would continue to be protected in a shutdown. However, nonprotective functions would be delayed such as administrative work, training programs or investigative work that is not tied to immediate threats, among other things. Democrats suggest removing ICE from full bill While those departments, and several others, are at risk of losing funding in a DHS shutdown, some Democrats have suggested removing funds for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure the other items are replenished. That way, lawmakers can continue negotiations on immigration policy and enforcement but other must-pass spending items can be fulfilled. Advertisement Advertisement Connecticut Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democratic appropriator in the House, said in a statement last week that she would be open to putting agencies such as TSA and FEMA into its own spending bill in order to avoid any disruption to public services or missed paychecks for federal workers. Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md., later told Bloomberg that he expects Democratic leaders to propose a spending bill that only includes those agencies and temporarily extends ICE until a deal is made. Its unlikely Republican leaders will be open to splitting up the DHS spending bill, and several members of the majority party have already balked at Democrats demands for being unreasonable. What they will be tying up, if the Democrats choose to close the government, is these very essential services for everything else: FEMA, Coast Guard, TSA, and other aspects of national security, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said last week. -UPDATE @ 11:45 P.M.- A person was seriously injured after a crash at a busy Montgomery County intersection on Sunday night. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Deputies and medics responded just before 7 p.m. to N. Dixie Drive and Bartley Road in Harrison Township to a reported crash, according to the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement An initial investigation showed that a black 2011 Ford Crown Victoria was traveling south on N. Dixie Drive when it hit a black 2011 Volvo XC70. The Volvo was trying to make a left turn onto northbound N. Dixie Drive from Bartley, the sheriffs office said. Photos from our news crew showed the intersection surrounded by yellow caution tape. Medics transported the driver of the Ford Crown Victoria to a local hospital with serious injuries. The crash remains under investigation. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The DeWitt Township Police Department is warning community members of a recent computer security program scam after an elderly resident was scammed out of thousands of dollars. According to a Facebook post made by DeWitt Chater Township, the woman, a resident of DeWitt, reported she was scammed out of $9,500 after receiving an email from someone claiming to be her daughter. When the victim opened the email, her computer froze, and a security alert popped up, asking her to call an 800 number. Advertisement Advertisement The victim says she called the number and spoke to someone who told her she needed to purchase a new security program on her computer. When the victim told the scammer she had already purchased a security program, the scammer said they would refund her the money so she could buy a new one. The victim then shared her personal bank information with the scammer, allowing them to create a fake bank statement showing that they refunded the resident too much money. The victim was then asked to go to her bank and wire the excess money to an account in Florida. She did and was defrauded out of the funds. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. A recent survey shared by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute's Center on Civility and Democracy reported that 72% of Americans want to see more civility in our nations politics. (Getty Images) For the love of politics, lets keep it civil. Complaining that politics is dirty hardly qualifies as an original claim. Caesar was stabbed in the back by his best friend-turned-enemy. President Richard Nixon infamously sought a second term as president through ruthless means, employing his reelection committee to spy and lie for his administrations benefit (ironically known by the acronym CREEP). The Russian government funded bots to generate fake accounts in the 2016 presidential election, intending to exacerbate polarization and manipulate the outcome. A few bad apples spoil the bunch and what is true in produce absolutely applies to power as well. Advertisement Advertisement The loss of respectable and civil politics, however, is an alarmingly new challenge. Gone are the days of collegial bipartisan agreement. Rarely do legislators from across the aisle join regularly to break bread and nurture camaraderie as an informal congressional tradition held in the past. The friendship of Lee Hamilton and Richard Lugar two Hoosier statesmen of another generation who forged compromise and solutions that extended beyond their own partisan affiliationsis now a historic artifact. Hamilton passed away last week at age 94. As a graduate student, I had the opportunity to hear both men speak in Washington D.C. and what struck me was the genuine, mutual respect they shared for each other. Extending beyond civility and collegiality, it was a true appreciation of each others contributions, a love for the person past their politics. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement On one hand, civility is hardly the only challenge in Indiana politics today. The state traditionally ranks among the worst in the nation for voter engagement (though Indianas Civic Health Index noted a positive improvement in voter registration from 50th in 2022 to 41st in 2024). Tension during last falls redistricting debate fueled threats of violence and intimidation, aided by doxxing and cyberbullying. A Tippecanoe county judge and his wife were shot last month, allegedly by disgruntled defendants. Yet civility serves as a glue that stimulates positive changes and mitigates negative ones. Alexandra O. Hudson explores the value of civility in her book, The Soul of Civility (2023), describing it as respect for the dignity of others. She artfully distinguishes civility from politeness; the latter, she notes, manifests in manners and etiquette but the former enshrines a deeper appreciation for humanity. It reminds us that what divides us is smaller than what unites us. Hudson is not alone in her pursuit for civility. A recent survey shared by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institutes Center on Civility and Democracy reported that 72% of Americans want to see more civility in our nations politics. The same survey found that Americans are divided on their outlook for our nations future, split nearly in half over whether to be optimistic or pessimistic about our ability to come together. On Feb. 18th, the University of Indianapolis and Indiana Humanities will host the 11th annual Fairbanks Symposium, focusing on civility and civic leadership. Beyond proposed legislative changes and individual pleas for reason, community conversation provides an invaluable opportunity to build collegiality, rapport, civility, and respect. Cultivating open, respectful dialogue builds social capital which in turn serves as investment in our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Civility and respect, key tenets in a healthy democracy, are dwindling. Too many claim patriotism or a love of our nation and simultaneously destroy our social fabric with words and actions rooted in hate. Civility in politics is dying, but not dead. If we love our countryman as much as our country, we should treat both with the same dignity they deserve. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Carnival celebrations in the German city of Dusseldorf are gearing up to be the biggest in 20 years, unbowed by ongoing legal proceedings targeting a local float designer for his satirical depictions of President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Army. Jacques Tilly has been indicted in Moscow for defaming Russian state organs for a series of floats, including one in which Putin bathes in blood in a tub painted with the Ukrainian flag. The Russian judiciary has again postponed to February 26 the controversial criminal proceedings, which Tilly describes as ridiculous. Advertisement Advertisement "Russia is a mafia state with a corresponding judiciary," he said on Monday. He deliberately will not send his own lawyer to Russia, he said. His response to the legal threats will be in this year's works: "Better a bit sharper than holding back," Tilly said. Carnival President Lothar Horning said he is "totally excited" about Tilly's new floats. "What makes us happy is this solidarity from all over the country," said the managing director of the umbrella committee organizing the Dusseldorf Carnival (CC), Uwe Willer. "All Carnival strongholds have shown solidarity, as have many organizations far beyond Carnival." Advertisement Advertisement This year's motto in the local dialect means, "We will stay colourful, no matter what happens." Dusseldorf's main Carnival street parade on Monday will present itself in record-breaking size, according to the CC. The parade takes place each year on the Monday before the start of the Christian fasting season of Lent, which is Shrove Monday known locally as Rose Monday. This year, a total of 11,000 participants, 124 floats and 116 walking groups are involved, the largest Rose Monday parade in the city for at least 20 years. The enthusiasm for Carnival remains unbroken, according to the CC: "The membership numbers of the Carnival clubs are rising." Thousands of police officers on patrol Several thousand police officers will ensure safety during the street carnival in Dusseldorf. "From my point of view, we are very, very well positioned," said Horning. Advertisement Advertisement In the old city, a ban on glass will again apply, which has significantly reduced the number of injuries. With mobile rescue teams, it has also been possible to significantly reduce hospital trips, said Dusseldorf's Head of Public Order, Christian Zaum. Now, after months of preparation, the revellers are hoping for sunshine. The Rose Monday parade is traditionally lined by hundreds of thousands of people. The parade route is 5.35 kilometres long. The Carnival days Dusseldorf's street Carnival traditionally begins this Thursday with the storming of City Hall by women who cut off men's ties and take the keys to the city from the mayor in a symbolic gesture of seizing power from men. Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, the children's and youth parade with almost 6,000 participants is scheduled to move through the city. On Sunday, tens of thousands of costumed revellers are expected on Dusseldorf's main boulevard, the upmarket Konigsallee. The highlight remains the Rose Monday parade, then the next day on Shrove Tuesday evening, a farewell is said to this year's Carnival prince and princess at City Hall, and the new motto for 2027 is announced. On Ash Wednesday, this year on February 18, Carnival season ends officially with the burial of the Hoppeditz, the symbolic figure of an arch-jester dressed in red and white. Ash Wednesday marks the start of traditionally sombre and reflective season of Lent, the 40 days of fasting that lead up to the highlight of the Christian year, Easter. New York Army National Guard Col. Jason Lefton of Niskayuna, an Iraq War veteran, took command of 5,100 soldiers of the 53rd Troop Command during a ceremony at Camp Smith Training Site, Cortlandt Manor. Lefton replaced Brig. Gen. Isabel Smith, who retired after 37 years of military service. Major Gen. Raymond Shield, state adjutant general, presided over the change-of-command ceremony. Lefton is the right person to replace a proven leader like Smith, according to Shields. Advertisement Advertisement "As the new commander of the 53rd Troop Command, Jason is a proven leader with tremendous experience leading complex organizations," Shields added. Lefton addressed the officers and noncommissioned officers in the audience and told them they were critical for the success of the unit. "Thank you for your leadership skills and unwavering advocacy for our lives and soldiers," Lefton said. "Your experience and guidance is critical to our success, and I look forward to working with you as well." He now leads the 53rd Troop Command and has command and control over units across the state. Those units include 138th Chaplain Support Team, 138th Public Affairs Detachment, 53rd Support Detachment of Digital Liaison Detachment, 1156th Engineer Company, B Transportation Company, Cyber Protection Team, and 727th Military Police Detachment, all at Camp Smith. Also, 2nd Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction), Scotia; 206th Military Police Company, Latham; Detachment 1, 1156th Engineer Company, Kingston; 501st Exposives Ordnance Demolition Battalion, Glenville; 1108th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, Glenville; 1427 Medium Truck Company, Queensbury; 466thg Area Medical Company, Queensbury; 1501st Quartermaster Company, Troy; 1569 Transpiration Company, New Windsor Company A of 101st Signal Battalion, Peekskill; 104th Military Police Battalion, Kingston. Advertisement Advertisement Lefton previously commanded the New York Army Guard's 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade. Lefton has served in other leadership and staff positions during his 25-year career as an officer in the Army National Guard since earning his commission from the Marion Military Institute in 1996. He will now serve as a traditional part-time Guard officer as he works full-time for the state Office of General Services. Lefton enlisted in Army aviation in November of 2000 and became a UH-60 pilot with the 3rd Battalion, 142nd Assault Helicopter Regiment in January of 2001. He deployed to Bosnia and Herzegovina in support of the Stabilization Force 12 as a liaison officer for Multinational Division Southeast and the Task Force Battle Captain and deployed as a staff officer to Iraq. Advertisement Advertisement Lefton has served as a company commander, battalion executive officer, brigade executive officer and battalion commander. Lefton led the 3rd Battalion, 142nd Assault Helicopter Regiment to Puerto Rico in response to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. He earned a bachelor's degree in rhetoric and communications at the State University of New York. He also earned a master's degree in strategic studies from the Army War College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Lefton has civilian work experience as a fully registered representative in the financial services industry. He holds a commercial helicopter pilot license and single-engine airplane license. He has earned a Legion of Merit, two Bronze Star Medals, three Meritorious Service Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, three Army Achievement Medals, a Combat Action Badge, a Master Army Aviator Badge, and Air Assault Wings. Bricks aid veterans One gift can meet several wants and needs of veterans. Advertisement Advertisement Malta Veteran Appreciation Program volunteers are selling a variety of bricks. Each brick purchase can commemorate a veteran, help build a veterans memorial park, and help finance an emergency fund that provides food, clothing, furniture, household goods, handicap ramps, transportation, and homes for needy Malta-area veterans, according to Renee Farley, Malta Veterans Appreciation Program president. "The Malta Veterans Appreciation Program provides charitable support services to veterans," Farley says. "It's committed to enabling our veterans to function in a safe, comfortable environment where they will not be hindered but instead, will be able to thrive and lead a full life." Also, the organization teams up with Malta Mobile Acres Park to provide homes for needy veterans' families. Advertisement Advertisement Profits from the brick sale will help the group meet future veterans' needs, she adds. The group has an objective of selling 100 bricks on time for a spring installation. A brick with 20 characters on each of three lines costs $100. A brick with a military branch logo and 12 characters per each of three lines costs $150. An 8-by-8-inch gray or red cornerstone with 12 characters on each of four lines or six characters per each of six lines with logo costs $300. Each brick with the name of a veteran etched on it will be installed as part of a Veterans Memorial Walkway in the Capt. Dave Wallingford Park in Malta on June 7. Those bricks will be dedicated during a ceremony at 1 p.m. June 7. Advertisement Advertisement Farley's group helps veterans in many ways, including home repairs and transportation to medical appointments. Whenever a veteran expresses a need, the group puts out a call for help to hundreds through its social media network to help with those needs. Also, Farley has medical equipment, including walkers and motorized wheelchairs, food and building supplies stored in her garage and shed to meet possible future needs. To help replenish the emergency fund, purchase a brick online at maltavets.com. You can download a form and or mail a donation payable to MVAP or Malta Veterans Appreciation Program at MVAP, 4158A Silverbeach Road, Malta, NY 12020. Volunteers are often needed for home repairs and renovations. If interested, contact Renee Farley at 518-577-8863. If you are a veteran with a need or want to volunteer, contact Farley. News of troops and unit can be sent to Times Union, Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or brownt@timesunion.com. This article originally published at Duty Calls: Niskayuna resident takes command of 5,100 soldiers. Water resources are tight in the Texas Hill Country - there's no doubt about it. But what's still in question is how the region will yet again face historic lows amid another dry start to the year, as business owners, boaters and other recreational users cautiously look forward to spring break and the peak summer season, especially as new water-reliant developments continue to target the area. In April 2025, Medina Lake, located in Bandera and Medina counties, reached "dead pool" status, according to Dave Mauck, general manager of the Bandera County River Authority & Groundwater District, meaning that water levels had dropped so low that downstream flow had completely ceased. Lake levels then were at just 2.5 percent of the lake's capacity. Advertisement Advertisement As of Friday, February 6, water levels have risen marginally, standing now at 4.4 percent full following a 2025 high: a modest 6.5 percent shortly after the Hill Country experienced deadly flooding on July 4, 2025. According to data from the Texas Water Development Board, the lake's surface elevation level is 978.57 feet above sea level. The lake's full capacity should hold 1,064.2 feet of water, a difference of about 86 feet. The lake has been disappearing for years now; satellite images from more than a decade ago show it slowly regressing, and drought conditions have only gotten worse. The Bandera County River Authority & Groundwater District currently lists its drought level as "exceptional," and on Thursday, February 5, the agency issued new water restrictions limiting irrigation and well use. The Bexar-Medina-Atascosa Water Control and Improvement District No. 1, which also manages the lake, is currently under Stage 4 water restrictions. Advertisement Advertisement "It's just been so dry for so long," Mauck told MySA last October. Mauck, who could not be reached immediately for comment, has previously told MySA that the lake's low water levels have far-reaching effects on various stakeholders, including businesses that depend on the lake's tourist appeal, farmers relying on water for irrigation, and homeowners and newcomers in need of this vital resource as the Hill Country's population continues to grow. This article originally published at Is a dying Texas Hill Country lake returning to 'dead pool' status? What to know. Sisis visit to the UAE underscores Egypts role in Gulf diplomacy, regional security, and Gaza, amid Saudi-UAE tensions and shifting Middle East alliances. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi travelled on Monday to the United Arab Emirates, where he is scheduled to meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Egyptian media Egypt Today said that the visit underscores the two leaders keenness to further strengthen bilateral relations across various fields, as well as to enhance consultation and coordination on regional and international issues and crises of mutual interest. Advertisement Advertisement UAE media outlet Al-Ain News said the visit represents a fraternal visit, coming at a time of regional tensions involving the UAE, particularly with Saudi Arabia. Egypt is a close friend of both countries, while there are also reports of tensions between Algeria and the UAE. The visit also comes after a recent killing in Sudan that has shed an increased regional spotlight on the civil war there and efforts to end it. At the same time, Arab countries have condemned new legislation in Jerusalem that aims to increase Israels expansionist policies, according to a statement from seven Arab states. The statement, published by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), said that the foreign ministers of the UAE, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar condemned the Israeli decisions in the strongest terms. Egypt and the UAE both have relations with Israel and are expected to continue backing the US plan for Gaza. Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan arrives at Downing Street, London, Britain, September 16, 2021. (credit: REUTERS/HANNAH MCKAY) Al-Ain media said the Egyptian president was welcomed upon his arrival at the presidential airport in Abu Dhabi. Advertisement Advertisement The official website of the Egyptian Presidency noted that the Egyptian president had visited the UAE last June, in a visit that discussed fraternal relations and various avenues of cooperation and joint work, and continuing to push them forward, especially in areas that serve the development goals of the two countries in a way that achieves their mutual interests and brings goodness and growth to their people. During the visit at the Al-Shati Palace in the UAE, the two leaders discussed regional issues. In this context, they stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip [which was reached in October 2025] and to work towards creating a clear political horizon for a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution that guarantees stability and security for all, Al-Ain noted. They also sought to coordinate on other issues in the region, focusing on stability, security, and peace, which is the path to achieving development and prosperity for all the peoples of the region. Advertisement Advertisement The reports went on to note that the UAE leader made three visits to Egypt in 2025. Mutual visits and successive summits confirm the strength of bilateral relations and the importance of continued joint coordination between Cairo and Abu Dhabi on priority issues, foremost among them Arab issues, the situation in Gaza, and efforts to achieve regional stability, said Al-Ain media. The recent visit follows a recent trip by the Egyptian foreign minister to the UAE. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE foreign trade minister, also headed a high-level government delegation to Egypt at the end of last December, Al-Ain noted. There have been discussions about the UAE investing in Egypt and the Egyptian governments aspiration to enhance this cooperation by establishing more fruitful partnerships during the next stage. Egypt-UAE ties date back to UAEs founding in 1971 The same reports at Al-Ain noted that ties between the states go back to even before the UAE was founded in 1971. Advertisement Advertisement Following the establishment of the United Arab Emirates, Egypt was among the first countries to fully support it, rushing to recognize it immediately after its declaration, exchanging relations at the embassy level, and supporting it regionally and internationally, considering it a pillar of security and stability and a new addition that contributes to the strength of the Arabs. Egypt has historically been one of the leaders of the Arab world. Under its leader Gamal Abdel Nasser, it played a major role in the region in the 1960s. In recent decades some of the power of the historical Arab states, such as Egypt, Syria, and Iraq, has shifted toward the Gulf. Al-Ain added that with the rise of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to power in 2014, the special relationship between the two countries reached its peak, witnessing significant and qualitative development in the political, economic, security, military, and other fields. The meetings in the UAE have ramifications for the region and also for Israel. These two countries are both close partners of the US. They also both share interests in Gaza. In recent months it is clear that Saudi Arabia has become concerned about the UAEs policies in Yemen and also in the Red Sea. It is unclear if the Egyptian visit may help patch things up between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Elon Musk says SpaceX is shifting focus from Mars to a moon city. Musk said he is prioritizing development on the moon because launch cycles are faster than on Mars. Last week, Musk announced that SpaceX acquired his AI company, xAI. Elon Musk's SpaceX just overhauled its to-do list. In an X post on Sunday, the CEO said that the company is shifting its focus from Mars to creating a "self-growing city" on the moon. Advertisement Advertisement "It is only possible to travel to Mars when the planets align every 26 months (six month trip time), whereas we can launch to the Moon every 10 days (2 day trip time)," Musk wrote. "This means we can iterate much faster to complete a Moon city than a Mars city." The announcement is a big departure from Musk's previous comments about reaching the red planet this year. In 2020, the SpaceX CEO said he was confident that the company would land humans on Mars by 2026. "If we get lucky, maybe four years," Musk said at an awards show in 2020. "We want to send an uncrewed vehicle there in two years." Advertisement Advertisement The space company has historically delayed ambitious projects because of their complexity and regulatory challenges. Mars is still part of the plan In Sunday's post, Musk added that SpaceX would continue building a Mars city, starting in five to seven years. "But the overriding priority is securing the future of civilization and the Moon is faster," he wrote. Last week, Musk announced that SpaceX would acquire xAI, his AI company behind the chatbot Grok. XAI purchased the social media platform X in March 2025. The CEO wrote that SpaceX's xAI acquisition would create "the most ambitious, vertically-integrated innovation engine on (and off) Earth, with AI, rockets, space-based internet, direct-to-mobile device communications and the world's foremost real-time information and free speech platform." Advertisement Advertisement In the memo, Musk shared plans to have "self-growing bases" and factories on the moon. He also mentioned having "an entire civilization on Mars." Correction: February 9, 2026 This story was updated to remove a reference to Artemis II, a mission under NASA not SpaceX that was delayed. Read the original article on Business Insider Mallory Bishop defends her work during a Feb. 5, 2026, hearing at Emporia State University on whether to eliminate the Social Change program. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) EMPORIA Emporia State University freshman Hayden Gust told faculty members Thursday he wouldnt be standing in front of them if he hadnt met Mallory Bishop. The faculty members and university provost were meeting to decide whether to discontinue Bishops Social Change program, formerly called ethnic and gender studies. If discontinued, Bishop would keep her job and teach the same courses, but students could no longer major in an arena that has fallen under the shadow of a legislative crusade against diversity, equity and inclusion. Advertisement Advertisement Gust said the program granted him the opportunity to meet some of his best friends, including a classmate he now considers a sister. Part of last semester was really difficult for me, and had it not been for this major, I would never have met Mallory Bishop. Love her, Gust said. I would have dropped out, realistically, because with all the pressures and not having Mallorys leadership there and her rallying behind me, I wouldnt be here today. Hayden Gust speaks at a Feb. 5, 2026, hearing at Emporia State University on whether to eliminate the Social Change program. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) Gust spoke alongside alumni and faculty members who voiced support for the Social Change program during a one-hour public hearing in a room in the student union basement. The problem is the program appears to have little student interest, with just one to three students pursuing a Social Change major each year. That is partly because it is intertwined with the universitys interdisciplinary studies program, which allows students to customize a degree that includes the social change classes. The universitys reporting system doesnt track dual-major designations like Gust, who is seeking social change and communications degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Bishop has transformed her undergrad program in recent years, altering its name and focus while the university moved it into the School of Library and Information Management. Bishop teaches all of the required classes for the Social Change program, including one for which she isnt paid. But under direction from the Kansas Board of Regents, universities are reviewing programs that fail to meet certain metrics, like those with fewer than 25 students enrolled. The options are to discontinue the program, merge it with another program, or place it on an action plan for improvement. Wooseob Jeong, dean of the library school, recommended in a Dec. 4 letter to provost Brent Thomas that the university discontinue Bishops program based on KBOR guidelines, even though her classes have been very popular, often with more than 25 students. His letter noted that just four Social Change majors and 16 minors had been awarded since 2021. Bishop pointed out in a Dec. 8 response letter that getting rid of the program would result in no cost savings for the university. She proposed a three-year plan to improve enrollment numbers. From left, Wooseob Jeong, dean of the School of Library and Information Management, left, and provost Brent Thomas appear at a Feb. 5, 2026, hearing at Emporia State University on whether to eliminate the Social Change program. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) On Thursday, a Faculty Senate committee questioned Bishop, Jeong and Thomas, in addition to hearing public input. The committee will make a recommendation about the future of the Social Change program to Thomas, who will then offer his own assessment to the university president, who has the final say. Advertisement Advertisement Has any thought gone into the possibility that those numbers are going to be changing in the next 10 years, due to the fact that the tide will turn politically at some point? said Scott Wichael, an associate music professor. It would behoove us to keep in line with this in hoping that we would attract more students in the not-too-distant future. Thomas said long-term trends can be considered as part of the process. Currently, Kansas lawmakers are entertaining legislation that would ban DEI and critical race theory from courses that count toward degree requirements at the states public universities. Lawmakers also are considering a budget plan that would withhold $2 million from each university until DEI and CRT materials are removed from curriculum. Bishop said in an interview after Thursdays hearing that it would be pure bliss to ignore the implications of the Legislatures interest in stamping out DEI-related programs. Advertisement Advertisement It would be foolish to not see connections amongst those things, she said. She said it may not seem like a big deal to lose the major, since she would still teach the same classes, but she sees value in having it listed as an option for students. How do we expect people to be those agents of social change, to go out and make their communities better, if they dont know that thats something they can actually study? Bishop said. Thomas said in an interview that the evaluation of Bishops program wasnt politically motivated but rather the product of Board of Regents guidance. This is more of just something that universities, including Emporia State, have to do, Thomas said. We just have to look at our programs and ask ourselves hard questions. Jessica Reth appears at a Feb. 5, 2026, hearing at Emporia State University on whether to eliminate the Social Change program. She says Social Change classes prepared her for her work as a food and housing coordinator for the United Way of the Flint Hills. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) Jessica Reth, a 2022 ESU graduate, said during Thursdays meeting that she would have pursued a Social Change major if she had realized it was an option. She asserted that the university should invest in promoting the program. Advertisement Advertisement Reth said she started as a biology major, which was a whirlwind for me, because she was interested in plants. She shifted gears after taking a sociology class and ended up in the interdisciplinary studies program. That included taking classes from Bishop, she said, which put her on the path to her current job food and housing coordinator for the United Way of the Flint Hills. She also leads the Healthier Lyon County Coalition and sits on the Lyon County Food and Farm Council. All of those opportunities shaped the person I am today, and allow me to have the impact on our local community that I otherwise dont think I would have stayed in, Reth said. Gust quoted from the universitys mission to prepare students for lifelong learning, rewarding careers and adaptive leadership. If you take away things that make them better citizens, youre failing at that, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Bishop said Gusts comments remind her of why I do my job. It is really important to me to help students find a place where they belong, for them to understand that they matter, that they can do things that matter in the world, and that they have a right to exist and to exist safely and freely and to be able to find their people in their community, she said. After the room had cleared Thursday, Gust and Bishop told each other they had almost cried during his remarks. I owe my life to you, Gust said. You have a lot more in you than you think, Bishop said. We all need people to be able to believe in us. I believe in you. This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. The incident in the Tebbaneh area sent thick clouds of dust into the air, and sparked panic among residents, Al-Jadeed reported, adding that emergency teams have rescued four people, and that search operations continue. After being briefed on the developments of the incident, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged the full mobilization of all emergency services to carry out rescue operations and provide shelters for those living in and around the collapsed building. Tripoli, the second-largest city in Lebanon, has witnessed a series of building collapses recently. Local officials said previously that 105 buildings in the city require immediate evacuation due to structural danger, and some 700 others need urgent intervention to prevent collapse. This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2026 shows the rescue operations at the site of a collapsed residential building in Tripoli, northern Lebanon. At least five people were killed when a residential building collapsed on Sunday in northern Lebanon's city of Tripoli, local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported. (Photo by Khaled Habashiti/Xinhua) This article will update. Court documents filed in Ohio reveal the name of the encrypted messaging app where Fishers teen Hailey Buzbee spoke with 39-year-old Tyler Thomas for more than a year before her disappearance and death. Buzbee was last seen on Jan. 5. Investigators believe she voluntarily left her home with Thomas, who led the FBI to her remains on Feb. 1. What online gaming app did Hailey Buzbee use? Officials initially said the pair communicated through a gaming platform. A search warrant affidavit indicated that they spoke for more than a year on multiple gaming platforms and coordinated Buzbee's "runaway attempt and transport" on Session, a private messaging app based in Switzerland. What is the Session app? Session is "a decentralized app designed, built, and operated by a global community of privacy experts," according to the app's website. Advertisement Advertisement As messages are sent across the multiple servers on its network, no server ever learns both the destination and the origin of a single message. Does the Session app have an age verification? Signing up for a Session account does not require a phone number or email address, and the app collects no data about users' devices or locations, the website's FAQ says. It is listed as an "18+ app" in the Apple App Store. The Google Play Store rates it "E" for "everyone." People must be 18 or older to use Session, according to its terms of service. The terms of service also say the app "cannot be used to (organize) or promote child sexual exploitation." Who owns the Session app? The app is not owned in a traditional sense, its website explains, but the Session Technology Foundation manages its app store presence and public code repositories. The foundation did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Related: Have you heard of these online gaming platforms? Your kids might be using them Ryan Murphy is the communities reporter for IndyStar. She can be reached at rhmurphy@indystar.com. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Hailey Buzbee: Encrypted app 'Session' used before teen's death Energy Secretary Chris Wright told POLITICO he will soon travel to Venezuela to meet its leaders and discuss the future of its state-run oil company but he insisted that the Trump administrations interests in the resource-rich nation dont revolve around oil. In an exclusive interview for the POLITICO Energy podcast, Wright said that deposing former leader Nicolas Maduro was not a move for more oil supply, and that the countrys world-leading crude reserves were never a meaningful part of the decision-making. This was a geopolitical problem of a country that was a threat to all of its neighbors, a threat to the Western hemisphere, and a massive exporter of guns, of drugs, of criminals, Wright said. It may be a nice coincidence, but it is coincidental that Venezuelas main product and giant resource is oil. Advertisement Advertisement In the weeks since the U.S. military raid that captured Maduro, President Donald Trump has repeatedly declared that the U.S. would rebuild Venezuelas oil sector to the benefit of American consumers. One of the things the United States gets out of this will be even lower energy prices, Trump told oil executives at the White House last month despite public skepticism from executives such as Exxon Mobil CEO Darren Woods that the still-unstable country is a viable place to invest. Wrights comments come as the Trump administration is facing new questions about Venezuelas future direction. The White House is seeking to increase the countrys oil production and nudge it toward democracy, but is also working with former members of Maduros government to prevent an economic and political crisis from spiraling out of control. Wrights upcoming visit will make him the most senior Trump administration official to set foot in Venezuela since Maduros capture. He plans to meet with acting President Delcy Rodriguez during his time there, he said. There has been no change to the plan to bring about a transition to democracy in Venezuela, Wright said, and he expects the country to hold democratic elections in the next 18 to 24 months. He said, however, that the effort will require working with the interim authorities and leaning on economic levers, like the oil sector. Advertisement Advertisement As youve seen in other countries, this is a challenge and you dont snap your fingers and it happens overnight, he said. But as fast as we can make that happen, the better. The White House on Friday pushed back after opposition leader Maria Corina Machado told POLITICO elections could be done in nine to 10 months after the necessary conditions are put in place. One White House adviser, granted anonymity to discuss the situation, said Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize last year, was working against U.S. national security goals. Wright said his top priority in his upcoming visit will be to connect directly face-to-face with the humans, including people in the Rodriguez administration and leadership of the oil and gas industry. High on his agenda, he said, is improving the management of the state-run oil company, Petroleos de Venezuela, which has emerged as an obstacle in the Trump administrations efforts to push international oil companies to invest in the country. Wright said he plans to start the dialogue with Venezuelan officials on the future leadership of PdVSA, but noted it is ultimately a Venezuelan company. Advertisement Advertisement He also hopes to travel to some of the nations oil fields, which hold some of the largest reserves in the world but have suffered from lack of investment under the socialist regime that has eroded their output to a fraction of the levels seen three decades ago. PdVSA was a highly professional, technically competent oil and gas company 30 years ago, and it hasnt been one for quite some time, Wright said. Under the countrys strict oil regulations, international companies are required to partner on developments with PdVSA, which has faced criticisms of corruption and mismanagement. The secretary praised Venezuelas interim authorities for quickly passing changes to its oil law that allow foreign oil companies to maintain more control over their operations and cash flow in the country. Advertisement Advertisement The legislation that was passed quite rapidly, I think you can see as a gesture of improvement already very early on in this new relationship between the U.S. and Venezuela, Wright said. They want to see investment coming into Venezuela as much as we want to see investment coming into Venezuela. Wright acknowledged, however, that major producers will need further changes to feel confident in investing, including establishing ownership rights over their assets and the ability to resolve disputes in a neutral court. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week that the new revisions dont go far enough. Not everyone in the U.S. has welcomed the bid to revive Venezuelan oil production. Some U.S. oil and gas producers andGOP lawmakers in Congress have grumbled about the administrations Venezuela push, arguing the White House should not be working to add supply when American companies are already struggling with low crude prices a complaint that Wright dismissed as a feature of the beauty of capitalism. At that time of maybe already some stress in the American oil and gas industry, does this add a little more stress to the oil and gas industry? Im sure it does, he said. But new supply, new competition always adds stress to industries. And thats what drives innovation and progress in America. Advertisement Advertisement Wright has taken a leading role in the administrations efforts to convince voters it is addressing rising costs of energy ahead of the midterm elections. He also put distance between the administration and the oil and gas industry, which contributed tens of millions of dollars to Trumps presidential campaign. People often say to me, Youre there to help the oil and gas companies, Trump is gonna help the oil and gas companies. Quite the opposite, said Wright, who led oilfield services company Liberty Energy before joining the administration. Wright said Trumps goal is to drive up oil and gas production, a policy he said would keep prices low and fuel economic growth. Thats a stark contrast, he said, from President Joe Bidens pledge during the 2020 campaign that he would work to make a long-term transition away from fossil fuels. That contributed to higher crude prices and lifted oil company profits to record levels under Biden, Wright said. Advertisement Advertisement Oil and gas companies, my business absolute record profitability under President Biden, he said. That kind of a policy, that is maybe a winner for 1 percent of Americans that work in oil and gas and coal production, but its a loser for the other 99 percent of Americans that consume oil and gas and coal and dont benefit from higher prices. U.S. oil and gas production extended their years-long growth during the Biden administration to reach record levels, a trend that has continued under Trump. But prices for oil and gasoline surged during Bidens term after the global supply shocks to energy markets caused by Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine and surging energy demand as economic activity bounced back from the Covid-19 pandemic. Wright said Trumps focus on lowering gas prices makes business conditions tougher for oil and gas companies. But guess what? They get up, they innovate, they drive improvement, he said. The administrations moves to lower royalty rates for drilling on federal land, reduce regulation and open new areas up for drilling will all enable companies to sell oil and gas at lower prices. Advertisement Advertisement The secretary also touted his efforts to boost nuclear power, saying that an Energy Department initiative to bring three next-generation small modular reactors to criticality by July 4 remains on track. Despite what he acknowledged would be a high upfront cost, Wright called nuclear the most meaningful addition to the U.S. energy system because of its reliability and ability to power intensive industrial processes. If you run the math, nuclear can become a cheap source of energy, he said. It will not be next year or five years from now, but straight math says it can. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misstated Maria Corina Machado's comments on Venezuelan elections. She said Venezuelan elections could take place in nine to 10 months once appropriate conditions were in place. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 49-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, Feb. 8, after a vehicle search discovered he had methamphetamine and marijuana, according to the El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPCSO). On Sunday, deputies were checking a vehicle at a business located at 7105 Doniphan Drive. Deputies made contact with the driver, later identified as 49-year-old Troy Dean Hall, and a passenger as they observed drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle in plain view. 49-year-old Troy Dean Hall Based on the observations, deputies conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle, which led to the discovery of methamphetamine and marijuana. Hall admitted the narcotics belonged to him, according to EPCSO. Advertisement Advertisement Deputies then discovered additional methamphetamine on Halls person, seizing a total of approximately 9.5 grams of methamphetamine and 0.94 ounces of marijuana. Hall was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. He was subsequently booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility with a $5,100 bond. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. The search for Nancy Guthrie is in its eighth day, and investigators are still working around the clock to find herand to find the person (or persons) behind her disappearance. Authorities believe that Guthrie, 84, was abducted from her home in the Catalina Foothills, an area north of Tucson, Arizona. Over the course of the past week, there have been concerns surrounding Guthrie's health, as she was said to be on important medications. Moreover, the Pima County Sheriff's Department has stated that there was a critical issue on the night of Feb. 1, when Guthrie's pacemaker stopped syncing with her Apple Watch. In an effort to answer some of the ongoing questions surrounding pacemakers and heart-related medications, Parade spoke with Srihari S. Naidu, M.D., FACC, FAHA, FSCAI, triple board-certified in internal medicine, cardiology, and interventional cardiology. Dr. Naidu, who is a Professor of Medicine at New York Medical College, is not familiar with Guthrie's medical history, but he was able to answer some important questions about some complicated things that have been in the news this week. What Is a Pacemaker? To begin our conversation, I asked Dr. Naidu to tell me about pacemakerswhat they do and what kind of patients need them. Advertisement Advertisement "A pacemaker is a mechanical device that's usually implanted right around the left clavicle or left shoulder, and it usually has one or two wires that are threaded into a vein at that location, and they travel to the heart that way, because all the veins end up in the heart," Dr. Naidu explains. Some patients have a fast resting heart rate called tachycardia, while others may suffer from a slow resting heart rate, which is called bradycardia. A pacemaker may be a good option for patients who have bradycardia, Naidu says, adding that pacemakers are fairly common. "Nancy Guthrie is an elderly woman, so it's most likely needed due to her age. It's most likely that she just had a low heart rate, which she's gotten older, resulting in symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness. And because of that, they've put a pacemaker in to make sure that the heartbeat doesn't go too low," he added. Can a Pacemaker Connect to an App on an Apple Watch? If you've been following the Nancy Guthrie case, you've probably heard the Pima County Sheriff's Department say that they have evidence that Guthrie's pacemaker stopped syncing to her Apple Watch in the middle of the night on Feb. 1. Advertisement Advertisement This is something Dr. Naidu has never heard of before. "A pacemaker essentially has a remote monitoring system, and so a patient gets a box that is taken to their home and set up, and this box is set up to transmit either through WiFi or radio frequency, or through the internet to a server that goes to the doctor's office," Naidu says. He went on to explain that the pacemaker would ping to the box at a certain time of day and send that data to the doctor's office. "In this particular case, we know that typically, if you have a pacemaker, a defibrillator, or any type of implantable device that regulates heart rhythm or heart rate, every day, once a day, there'll be a transmission that is done remotely, spooling all the information from the prior 24 hours, or since the last time it was sent in," Naidu continues. He mentions that if a patient goes on vacation, for example, they wouldn't take the box with them, and the data would transmit when the patient is back in their home. As far as an Apple Watch connection goes, Naidu tells me he isn't aware of any app that monitors a patient's pacemaker. "I have not heard of that, and I certainly have thousands of patients. ... I think I would know that. ... Apple Watches can do their own evaluation of arrhythmias. And those can record, and then they can be downloaded or sent to your doctor, but not to the pacemaker as far as I'm concerned." Can a Pacemaker Send an Alert to a Family Member if Something Goes Wrong? What Happens if the Patient Dies? One question that's been floating around the internet seems to be if a pacemaker can alert a family member if things go awry. Advertisement Advertisement "You can set it up so that [your doctor gets a] notification of different arrhythmia. So even though the pacemaker cannot intervene for any type of fast arrthmia, it can detect faster arrhythmias or irregular arrhythmias, some of which are life threatening, and oftentimes happen during heart attacks," Naidu says. But what happens if a patient with a pacemaker dies? Does the pacemaker keep working? "So, we have this in the hospital where patients have a cardiac arrest, they pass away, and then you have to manually turn off the pacemaker, because the pacemaker will notice that the heart's not beating, and because the heart's not beating, it'll send electrical impulses to the top and bottom to try to beat it. But it won't be able to tell that it's not actually capturing the heart and making sure the heart beats. It'll send the signals because it thinks the heart's not beating, and it won't really know whether the heart is actually beating from it," he explains. "On a monitor, you'll see these little spikes where the electrical current from the device comes out, but it's not capturing the heart tissue. So yes, pacemakers will continue to try to beat the heart, even though the patient is [deceased]. Now, these are little micro currents, so you can't see the patient jumping or anything," he continues, adding that doctors need to turn off pacemakers before sending a body to the morgue. Advertisement Advertisement The pacemaker does not keep the heart going, however, and these micro currents are simply from the pacemaker itself, not actually the heart beating. What Happens if a Patient Stops Their Heart Medication Cold Turkey? Without knowing exactly which medications Nancy Guthrie takes, I asked Dr. Naidu to tell me what happens if someone stops taking heart-related medications without weaning off of them. He explained that there are three types of medications related to the heart: one to prevent occurrences of events, others that treat chronic disease, like hypertension, and a third type that actively keep the heart going. He says that medications for high blood pressure or blood thinners can be stopped cold turkey and may not have any immediate side effects to the patient. Stopping these medications, Naidu says, may increase a patient's chances of having a stroke, but it doesn't guarantee it. "In most cases, even in high-risk patients, that risk is about 5 percent per year of a stroke, so it's not like if you stop that blood thinner, they're gonna have a stroke the next day. They may not even have a stroke for that whole year, but their risk goes back up...maybe 10 fold," he says. Advertisement Advertisement "Patients with stents who have a different type of blood thinner, like Plavix, for example, these kinds of medications, if you stop them within a short time, you can definitely have a life-threatening [event]," he adds. Stopping other medications in patients with a weak heart could cause some symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath that would prompt medical attention. READ NEXT: Savannah Guthries Missing Mom Case Takes Another Turn as Investigators Search Septic Tank This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here. When an artificial intelligence data center was proposed for Westfield, it got the attention of Thomas Flaherty, not just for the $2.75 billion investment or the long-term tax breaks it was seeking. What turned the head of Flaherty, the general manager of Westfield Gas & Electric, was the massive amount of power the center would use daily. To put it into perspective, a 10-acre parcel would need the power equivalent (of) the entire load (of) the city of Westfield, Flaherty said. Advertisement Advertisement Westfield peaks out on the warmest summer day with an electric use of 85 megawatts. There have been several proposals for different data centers, with the smallest consuming 87 megawatts of power a day and the largest needing some 400 megawatts of power daily, he said. With Massachusetts power companies already facing pressure to comply with clean energy goals while struggling to meet existing power needs and dealing with transmission limitations, the idea of having something that hogs that much power gives chills to providers. The potential demand these facilities require is staggering, said Thomas Barry, chief executive officer of Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. They require an output of a large-scale nuclear plant, needing 1,100 to 1,200 megawatts delivered. While partners in most larger artificial intelligence facilities are mostly exploring locations in the south where land and power is less expensive, the smaller facilities, such as the one proposed for Westfield, are likely to be in play in New England in upcoming years, Barry said. Advertisement Advertisement We need have a serious conversation about better power generation, he said, adding that included expanding natural gas lines, since the existing ones do not provide the region with enough gas for power plants and homes. Developers who want to move to New England are expected first to be looking toward communities with municipally owned electric companies, since rates are lower, said Barry, who oversees the business that joins together some 30 different power companies across the state. That is a concern for Jason Viadero, director of engineering and generation for the Municipal Wholesale Co., because it could affect the affordability for customers. Currently, theres not a lot of native generation of power in Massachusetts. Using one example, solar panels could cover all the unused farmland in the state, and that wouldnt be enough for a data center. How do we layer on AI centers while getting people off internal combustion engines and putting more carbon-free (power) generation on the grid? he asked. Advertisement Advertisement Most municipal electric companies already have met the states 2030 goals of purchasing at least 50% of their power from sources that do not require burning fossil fuels, but this winters freezing temperatures show the fragility of the grid. For example, the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. purchases a lot of hydropower generated in Canada, but that country has been in a deep freeze, as well, so power has not been as readily available. Instead, the company has been relying on the Stony Brook Energy Center in Ludlow, which can burn natural gas or oil, which is fired up at peak times when there is more demand than power available, Barry said. While New England has had data centers for decades, they are much smaller, needing one megawatt or less of power daily. But now studies and proposals are calling for those that will need 100 to 200 megawatts, and one that is some 500 megawatts of power, which is equivalent to the entire electric load of the Cape, said Jacob Lucas, vice president of transmission planning for Eversource. The problem is federal regulations dont allow power companies to say no when a business shows up with a plan for a new enterprise, even if it is way beyond their capacity. They just have to make it work, Lucas said. Advertisement Advertisement Lucas said he has major concerns about the ripple effects from data systems. Probably the biggest is about affordability, since costs to upgrade infrastructure to meet its needs is not just borne by data centers in other states and is often passed onto all customers. Energy affordability is a crisis in New England, he said. The capacity of electric generation is also an issue, and the grid is having difficulty keeping up with needs, especially with new commercial and industrial buildings coming on board. Data centers will exacerbate that problem, he said. We have a generation capacity issue that is looming. Generation (plant) retirements have significantly outpaced generation additions. We have a 2-3% growth in needs, he said. Advertisement Advertisement While places such as Texas are adding new fossil fuel generation plants, that is not happening in New England. Most of the new generation added is in batteries, plus one small solar plant in New Hampshire, he said. While the largest data centers are being constructed in places where power is less expensive, Lucas said the centers have to be built all across the country, because the information is traveling by fiber, so the shorter the distance, the faster and less expensive it is. In Holyoke, 87% of its energy comes from carbon neutral sources, with much of that coming from the dam that the utility owns on the Connecticut River, said Kate Sullivan Craven, marketing and communications director for Holyoke Gas & Electric. It is also home to the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center, which opened in 2012 with a 15-megawatt capacity. The center, which has proposed an expansion, is owned and operated by a college partnership, which selected the city because of its low energy rates and green energy generation. Advertisement Advertisement If an AI center came, they would have to pay for additional infrastructure needed, she said. One of the biggest concerns about a data center is the effect it would have on Holyoke Gas & Electrics clean energy targets, since it might have to purchase power from additional sources that are not as green, she said. Back in Westfield, if the proposal goes through, the company would have to develop a direct connection to the transmission system, rather than infrastructure that the Gas & Electric company already owns, Flaherty said. It would be our customer, but it would have its own rate class, Flaherty said. Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Nearly two decades ago the United States and Japan signed an initiative to reduce the number of Marines in Okinawa. Now experts with the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington, D.C. warn that moving Marines to Guam and elsewhere in the Pacific from the Japanese island would undermine the militarys ability to counter an attack from China. Under the the US-Japan Defense Policy Review Initiative, or DPRI, the United States has agreed to move about 9,000 Marines from Okinawa to Guam, Hawaii, and other locations in the Pacific, while about 10,000 Marines would remain in Okinawa. But the Atlantic Council experts argued in a recent article that the strategic situation in the Indo-Pacific region has changed drastically over the past two decades, and the Marines based on Okinawa would play a vital role if China and the United States went to war. Advertisement Advertisement They could delay enemy advances and buy time for US reinforcements as key elements of the stand-in force by holding combatant ships and maneuver elements at risk as the rest of the US military moves into place, according to the Feb. 3 article, written by Marine Lt. Col. Caleb Eames and Amy Cowley. Top Stories This Week News Top enlisted leader in the Air Force explains why he wears his fathers service pin By Jeff Schogol News Soldiers with the 10th Mountain Division are headed back to the Middle East By Patty Nieberg News Army recruiting waivers for mental health will be approved at lower levels By Patty Nieberg Eames is the 2025-2026 Senior Marine Corps Fellow at the Atlantic Council and Cowley is an assistant director for the Forward Defense program of the think tanks Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security. Both wrote that the III Marine Expeditionary Force and its Littoral Regiments are designed to operate from remote bases within the range of Chinese missiles. Units such as the 12th Littoral Combat Team, which is currently based on Okinawa, are also able to strike back, with anti-ship missile batteries that are capable of hitting targets up to 115 miles away. Advertisement Advertisement Okinawa is part of the First Island Chain, which refers to a strategically important set of island nations in the western Pacific that includes Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Should a war break out in this region, the Chinese military would face Marine littoral forces stationed at bases in Okinawa, according to the article. Unfortunately, if fully implemented, the DPRI would give Chinese military planners exactly what they wanta removal of US forces from the locations where they would be most essential in a First Island Chain conflict, the article says. The United States military has been building up its infrastructure on Guam, with new bases and missile defense elements. But, the Atlantic Council authors noted that Guam is about 1,500 miles from Okinawa, and it would take U.S. forces three days to cross that distance by ship without having to deal with enemy attacks. Relocating Marines from Okinawa would move critical rapid-response forces out of the region at a time when China describes reunifying with Taiwan as a core interest, they wrote. In fact, having a ready force that close to China is the exact intent of having a Stand-In Force, they wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Eames and Cowley argued that it is time for the United States and Japan to negotiate their earlier agreement by providing Okinawans with economic incentives to support keeping a large Marine Corps presence on the island. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith voiced similar concerns last year, when he told reporters that the agreement to move Marines from Okinawa to Guam would put them far away from where they are most needed. Frankly, Guam puts us going the wrong way, Smith told reporters at a Jan. 15, 2025 Defense Writers Group Breakfast in Washington, D.C. Guam puts us on the other side of the International Date Line, but it puts us a long way from the crisis theater, from the priority theater. Smith added that he was not sure that the move to Guam was in the United States best national security interests, but the Marine Corps would comply with the agreement unless, and until, it changes. Advertisement Advertisement For now, the agreement is still in effect. The United States Marine Corps maintains a steadfast commitment to honoring our nations obligations in the defense of Japan, Marine Corps spokesman Capt. Steven J. Keenan said in a statement to Task & Purpose on Monday. The Marine Corps is continuing to implement the realignment of U.S. forces in accordance with the DPRI Program of Record. By Rajendra Jadhav and Mayank Bhardwaj NEW DELHI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The United States and India have released an interim framework for a trade deal, paving the way for an agreement that would lower tariffs, reconfigure energy ties and deepen economic cooperation as both seek to realign global supply chains. The IndiaU.S. joint statement suggested that New Delhi pushed back against Washington's efforts to broadly open its agricultural market. However, India has agreed to lower trade barriers on some farm goods, drawing criticism from farmers and opposition parties. Advertisement Advertisement WHO GAINS FROM INDIA'S DECISION TO ALLOW IMPORTS OF DDGS AND SOYOIL, AND WHO LOSES OUT? India is expected to allow imports of protein-rich distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a byproduct of ethanol made from corn and other grains, from the United States, adding to a surplus in the domestic market. Higher supplies of DDGS could benefit India's nearly $30 billion poultry sector, where feed costs account for around 60-70% of total production expenses, by helping reduce expensive feed purchases. Domestic oilseed processors and soybean farmers, however, may lose out if U.S. imports rise. Advertisement Advertisement There are already surplus supplies of DDGS in India, weakening demand for oilmeals such as soyameal, putting pressure on Indian oilseed prices and prompting farmers to switch from soybean and peanuts to corn and rice, despite New Delhi's push to boost oilseed cultivation and curb imports. As supplies of DDGS increase further, India's ethanol producers - already struggling with idle capacity and slowing demand after the country achieved its 20% biofuel blending target - may face lower earnings from DDGS sales in the domestic market. Prospects of duty-free imports of soyoil from the U.S. have raised some concerns in India. But, under the current framework, duty-free soyoil imports will be allowed only under a tariff-rate quota, meaning volumes above the quota will face standard tariffs, a move aimed at protecting domestic producers. WILL DUTY-FREE COTTON IMPORTS AFFECT INDIAN FARMERS? Advertisement Advertisement India currently imposes an 11% duty on cotton imports, and allowing duty-free imports from the world's largest exporter of the fiber could put pressure on domestic prices. However, the impact is expected to be limited, as the government has permitted only imports of extra-long staple cotton, and that too under a quota. Although India is the world's second-largest cotton producer, it struggles to meet the textile industry's demand for extra-long staple cotton, which it imports from the U.S., Egypt, Brazil and Australia. DO CONCESSIONAL IMPORTS OF APPLES AND DRY FRUITS THREATEN INDIAN FARMERS? Advertisement Advertisement India is the world's fifth-largest apple producer, but domestic supplies fall short of rising demand, driven by population growth and increasing prosperity. New Delhi imports around 500,000 metric tons of apples annually from Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, the U.S. and Chile. Under a trade deal with the U.S., imports will be allowed at a concessional duty of 25% and a minimum import price of 80 rupees per kg, effectively preventing shipments below 100 rupees per kg and helping protect Indian farmers. Consumption of dry fruits such as walnuts, almonds and pistachios has also been rising in India. Domestic production of these commodities is limited, so concessional imports are unlikely to affect local farmers. ARE INDIAN FARMERS LIKELY TO BENEFIT FROM THE TRADE DEAL? Advertisement Advertisement Indian growers of tea, coffee, spices and fruits are set to gain from the trade deal, as the U.S. has granted duty-free access for these products. The reduction of import duties on rice to 18% is also expected to support exporters of both premium basmati and non-basmati varieties. (Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav and Mayank Bhardwaj; Editing by Anil D'Silva) By Martin Petty BANGKOK, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The ruling Bhumjaithai Party scored a decisive victory in Thailand's general election, routing progressive and populist parties to put leader Anutin Charnvirakul in the running to become the first premier voted back to office in 20 years. HOW DID THE ELECTION PLAY OUT? Bhumjaithai grabbed and retained a sizeable lead in early vote counting, despite opinion polls that favoured the liberal People's Party, whose leaders, along with those of the Pheu Thai party, had conceded early. Advertisement Advertisement It expanded in the south and grabbed seats in the vote-rich northeast held for nearly two decades by the billionaire Shinawatra family's once dominant Pheu Thai. Bhumjaithai had about 193 of 500 parliamentary seats from 94% of polling stations, Reuters calculations based on election commission data show, well over its tallies of 51 and 71 in 2019 and 2023 elections respectively. Despite a clean sweep of the capital Bangkok, People's Party was a distant second with 118 seats, and Pheu Thai at 74, in its worst electoral performance. HOW EASILY CAN ANUTIN FORM A COALITION? Although Bhumjaithai lacks an outright majority, its 193 seats give Anutin plenty of bargaining power. Clearing away one obstacle, the People's Party said on Sunday it would not form a competing alliance. Advertisement Advertisement Apart from the big three parties, about a dozen smaller ones are set to win 117 seats, from Kla Tham, with 58, to Palang Pracharat, with 5. As part of Anutin's minority government, those two alone would yield him a slender majority. A Pheu Thai-Bhumjaithai alliance is possible, even though Anutin manoeuvred against it after abandoning the coalition of the former ruling party last year, to become premier following a court's sacking of predecessor Paetongtarn Shinawatra. With his party on the rise and his credentials as an astute but wily dealmaker wielding clout among conservatives and royalists, Anutin is set to draw defectors and many smaller parties. IS POLITICAL STABILITY LIKELY UNDER ANUTIN? Advertisement Advertisement The size of Bhumjaithai's win consolidates power to enable better governance if Anutin can manage Thailand's stuttering economy and balance the interests of big business groups and powerful institutions. Anutin would probably be backed by Thailand's influential establishment and military, the key protagonists in a lengthy power struggle that thwarted two progressive forerunners of the People's Party and toppled in coups and court rulings six populist prime ministers from, or backed by, the Shinawatra family. HOW DID ANUTIN WIN? Anutin's gamble on dissolving parliament amid a fierce conflict with Cambodia seems to have paid off as he rode a wave of months-long nationalism and campaigned heavily on defending national sovereignty while portraying rivals as unpatriotic. Advertisement Advertisement Though premier for fewer than 100 days, his recruitment of technocrats and poaching of respected politicians from other parties let him project his party as a capable steward of the economy, against an untested People's Party and a Pheu Thai that had failed to deliver. WHEN CAN A GOVERNMENT BE FORMED? Parliament must gather to elect a speaker and choose the new prime minister 15 days after the result is certified by the election commission, which it has 60 days to do. Any party with more than 25 seats can nominate a prime ministerial candidate for the vote in parliament, but such a contestant would have to gain the support of more than half of the 500 lawmakers before forming a cabinet. Advertisement Advertisement If the vote is unsuccessful, the house must convene again and repeat the procedure until a premier is chosen. A spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai-led government said he expected a new administration would be in place by the end of April. (Reporting by Martin Petty; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Ros Russell) Many areas in Spain and Portugal are under water after excessive rainfall that was brought on by successive severe weather events, including Saturday's Storm Marta. The Iberian Peninsula, in particular, has already experienced a succession of storms in recent weeks, bringing heavy rain, thunder, snow and strong gales. Historic flooding in Spain The community of Grazalema, Spain, recorded more than 500 mm of rain in 24 hours--one of the highest totals on record for the European country. Advertisement Advertisement More than 3,500 evacuations were ordered in Andalusia, with more than 100 roads closed and rail disruptions from the extreme weather. As a result of the storms, a 46-year-old volunteer of Portugals emergency services died while attempting to cross a flood, according to local news reports. Exceptional rainfall in Spain With files from Reuters. Thumbnail courtesy of Policia Nacional. Claim: The United States owns the moon. Rating: Rating: False On Jan. 20, 2026, while discussing U.S. President Trump's stated desire to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, Fox News host Jesse Watters drew online ridicule for a comment he made about the United States owning the moon (archived, archived). Discussing Watters' remarks, one Facebook user posted a video with overlaid text reading (archived): "We don't own the moon. We can't claim celestial bodies by law. And imperialism by cable news analogy is not a foreign policy." Advertisement Advertisement https://www.facebook.com/reel/1399388618034981/?__cft__[0]=AZb5oYDo4Qolp8jeKbViaGoGi_37nzXmULvjBywyaQIm5Av0abR71QuhNsXAkCvh0Dw8PG1DXqEQa8wxb-mhjmxgAfnaPwJ0VEWwuij3gTCmlgib7UavrsOv7XNtVQR4rE3oYdvhppKMNmCCW4nN1IfiB9jycrdIU1u4Zm7D9PB6MIl8ZWQjUa-nN8L3r-H-MbfnwfmtIfC-yVRzvJOwbKyV&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R In a Fox News video (archived) on YouTube, Watters said on the network's "The Five" political talk show (emphasis ours): We have to secure Greenland. It will happen. Dana is right. She's never been wrong in any of her predictions. The United States always secures our interests, economically, militarily, either by force or purchase. Louisiana Purchase. Alaska. The Philippines. We even got the Marshall Islands after World War II. You don't even know where they are, Greg. We got the moon. I think we own it. And I know we own it. A spokesperson for Fox News said Watters' remark was made in jest. Nonetheless, the remark raised the question: Does the United States own the moon? If not, does anyone? According to the United Nations Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies, the answer is no to both. Celestial bodies, including the moon, are not subject to "national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means," according to Article II of the treaty. This essentially means that nations signing the treaty agree not to claim celestial bodies as their own. Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. was one of the founding signatories of the treaty, along with the U.K. and the Soviet Union, in 1967. As of this writing, no nation or group of nations, including the U.S., had defied the treaty and formally declared ownership of the moon. Therefore, we rate Watters' claim that the U.S. owns the moon as false. A broad agreement The Outer Space Treaty (the shorter name for the 1967 agreement) started as a Cold War-era attempt to regulate nuclear weapons. Before the 1967 treaty, the U.N.'s General Assembly passed a resolution in 1963 stating that countries would refrain from introducing weapons of mass destruction into outer space. In U.N. terms, a treaty is generally a binding agreement whereas a resolution is a nonbinding expression of opinion. Breaching a treaty by, for example, attempting to claim ownership of the moon can lead to political or economic consequences such as sanctions or embargoes. Advertisement Advertisement Alongside an agreement that the moon was not subject to "national appropriation," the Outer Space Treaty established other principles, including that space exploration "shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all countries" and that the "moon and other celestial bodies shall be used by all States Parties to the Treaty exclusively for peaceful purposes." At the time of this writing, all five nations that have so far landed on the moon the U.S., China, Russia, India and Japan have ratified and therefore consented to be bound by the treaty. 'Moon mining' sharpens focus on lunar ownership Questions about whether anyone can own the moon have become more urgent as spacefaring nations begin to consider the possibility of "moon mining" the extraction of valuable resources, like water or rare earth metals, from our planet's only natural satellite. In 2020, NASA, the U.S. Department of State and seven initial signatory nations announced the Artemis Accords as part of the international Artemis program that would send humans back to the moon. Advertisement Advertisement The accords built on the Outer Space Treaty but included a passage (Page 4, Section 10, Subsection 2) on "Space Resources" that reads (emphasis ours): The Signatories emphasize that the extraction and utilization of space resources, including any recovery from the surface or subsurface of the Moon, Mars, comets, or asteroids, should be executed in a manner that complies with the Outer Space Treaty and in support of safe and sustainable space activities. The Signatories affirm that the extraction of space resources does not inherently constitute national appropriation under Article II of the Outer Space Treaty, and that contracts and other legal instruments relating to space resources should be consistent with that Treaty. In other words, according to the Artemis Accords, signatory nations can extract and use materials from the moon. However, nations do not "own" the parts of the moon they extract materials from. At the time of publication, the U.S., India and Japan, along with dozens of other countries, had signed the Artemis Accords, while China and Russia the other two nations that had previously landed on the moon had not. Trump admin wrote space was not 'global commons' Though the U.S. does not own the moon, the second Trump administration appeared keen to establish the nation's dominance in space. Advertisement Advertisement In a Jan. 25, 2025, executive order titled "Ensuring American Space Superiority," Trump wrote that his administration aimed to establish "elements of a permanent lunar outpost by 2030." The executive order also said the administration would work to deploy nuclear reactors "on the Moon and in orbit, including a lunar surface reactor" that would be ready for launch by 2030. During his first administration, Trump signed an executive order titled "Encouraging International Support for the Recovery and Use of Space Resources." That order read: "Outer space is a legally and physically unique domain of human activity, and the United States does not view it as a global commons." The term "global commons" refers to areas that lie outside of national jurisdiction, "such as the oceans, outer space and the Antarctic," according to a U.N. definition. In that executive order, Trump also emphasized that the U.S. had not signed the 1979 Moon Agreement that proposed the establishment of an "international regime" to govern the "exploitation" of natural resources on the moon. As of this writing, none of the spacefaring nations who had previously landed on the moon had ratified meaning consented to be bound by the 1979 agreement, though India had signed it. In conclusion, while the world's major spacefaring powers were, at the time of publication, committed to a treaty that said the moon was not subject to "national appropriation," it would ultimately be up to the signatories how long that principle would stand. Sources: Artemis - NASA. https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Artemis Accords - NASA. https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-accords/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. 'Artemis Accords'. NASA, https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/artemis-accords-oman-61-012626.jpg. 'Donald J. Trump: "The United States Needs Greenland for the Purpose of National Security. It i...' Trump's Truth, https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/34556. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. 'Encouraging International Support for the Recovery and Use of Space Resources'. Federal Register, 10 Apr. 2020, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/04/10/2020-07800/encouraging-international-support-for-the-recovery-and-use-of-space-resources. Advertisement Advertisement English, BBC Learning. 'BBC Learning English - International Law Explainers / What Happens If You Break an International Law?' BBC Learning English, https://www.bbc.co.uk//learningenglish/features/international_law_explainers/8_what_happens_if_you_break_an_international_law. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. 'ENSURING AMERICAN SPACE SUPERIORITY'. The White House, 18 Dec. 2025, https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/ensuring-american-space-superiority/. Faulconbridge, Guy. 'Explainer: Moon Mining - Why Major Powers Are Eyeing a Lunar Gold Rush?' Reuters, 11 Aug. 2023, https://archive.ph/SL16j. Fox News. 'Gutfeld: This Is the Smartest Thing Newsom Has EVER Said'. YouTube, 20 Jan. 2026, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0razL2OFvnU&t=175s. Advertisement Advertisement 'Global Commons'. United Nations Economic and Social Commission for West Asia, https://www.unescwa.org/sd-glossary/global-commons. Kuthunur, Sharmila. 'India's Chandrayaan-3 Lunar Lander Barely Kicked up Any Moon Dust. Here's Why That Matters'. Space, 18 Mar. 2024, https://www.space.com/india-chandrayaan-3-lunar-lander-moon-dust. Lee, Liz, et al. 'China Lands on Moon's Far Side in Historic Sample-Retrieval Mission'. Reuters, 2 June 2024, https://archive.ph/s11RZ#selection-1609.0-1616.0. Library, Dag Hammarskjold. Research Guides: About UN Documents: Resolutions & Decisions. Research guide. https://research.un.org/en/docs/resolutions. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Mehta, Jatan. 'Japan's Lunar Landing Was LopsidedAnd Transformative'. Scientific American, 12 Mar. 2024, https://archive.ph/mlygO. Nelson, Sue. Moon Race 2.0: Why so Many Nations and Private Companies Are Aiming for Lunar Landings. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240216-moon-race-20-why-so-many-nations-are-aiming-for-lunar-landings. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. Outer Space Treaty. https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/spacelaw/treaties/outerspacetreaty.html. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. 'Outer Space Treaty'. U.S. Department of State, //2009-2017.state.gov/t/isn/5181.htm. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. Sanford, Shannon. '20 Myths and Facts About the Moon Landing'. Snopes, 29 Feb. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//list/myths-about-the-moon-landing/. Sess.: 1963), UN General Assembly (18th. Question of General and Complete Disarmament. 1964. digitallibrary.un.org, https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/203960. The Soviet Union Is First to the Moon. https://www.historytoday.com/archive/soviet-union-first-moon. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. United Nations Treaty Collection. https://treaties.un.org/Pages/overview.aspx?path=overview/definition/page1_en.xml. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. UNTC. https://treaties.un.org/pages/showdetails.aspx?objid=0800000280128cbd. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. SYDNEY, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Sydney Monday morning to begin a four-day visit to Australia that is intended to show support for the Jewish community following a terror attack at Bondi Beach last December, but has also sparked controversy due to Israel's policies toward the Palestinians. Herzog said in a statement that he would visit Jewish communities across Australia to "express solidarity and offer strength to the community in the aftermath of the attack," according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Invited by Australia's governor-general and prime minister, Herzog is expected to attend major community events with leaders of the Australian Jewish community and meet with senior politicians. At the same time, Herzog's visit has also faced opposition from some Australian groups and members of the public over Israel's policies and actions toward the Palestinians. More than 1,000 Australian Jews signed an open letter saying that Herzog was "not welcome here." Protests have been planned in several Australian cities, including Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, which Herzog is scheduled to visit. In Sydney, protesters are due to hold a rally and march in the city center on Monday evening, while police in the state of New South Wales (NSW) will deploy more than 3,000 officers throughout Herzong's visit, including 500 for the planned demonstration. On Dec. 14 last year, a mass shooting targeting a Jewish holiday celebration took place at Bondi Beach in Sydney, leaving 16 people dead, including one of the two suspected perpetrators. The Australian government said the attack was a terrorist act inspired by the ideology of the extremist group Islamic State. Midwest farmers are facing challenges growing an important crop, according to Yale Climate Connections. What's happening? Garlic yields in Wisconsin are down dramatically, according to one farmer. "What we've seen with excessive amounts of rain is we'll have more pests and disease in that crop, and in the last two years, I've only been able to make 400 pounds," said Josh Bryceson. Normally, he harvests 2,000 pounds each year. "It's very common to hear rain eroding ground to the point where it can't be planted anymore." Advertisement Advertisement While wet weather has been a major problem for farmers fighting pests and fungal infections, droughts have been at least as damaging to crop yields worldwide. Why is garlic important? The economic losses to farmers and the nutritional loss of falling agricultural yields are both big challenges, but they're not the only problems. Declining farm yields due to worsening weather patterns are a critical climate issue. Farmers across America are seeing important crops like apples, wheat, and corn fail at record rates. This contributes to rising prices at the grocery store and worsens food security, especially for low-income families. Atmospheric pollution is driving the wetter weather that's plaguing garlic crops. As pollution has trapped heat in the atmosphere, the severity of storms and flooding has increased. In addition to damaging farmland, these disasters also wreak havoc on housing, creating a spike in insurance rates. What's being done about garlic yields? As director of grower support programs at local non-profit Good Acre, Bryceson had a wealth of advice for fellow farmers. For one, he suggested not relying too much on a single crop to avoid hardship should it fail. Advertisement Advertisement He promoted the use of cover crops between harvests to prevent soil erosion. Covered structures can also help to protect crops from harsh conditions. Other farmers have vouched for the benefits of no-till farming in an effort to support long-term soil health. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. (This story was updated to add new information.) A Corpus Christi groundwater project considered critical amid an intensifying drought is hitting a snag potentially delaying the delivery of millions of gallons of water by months. It had initially been expected that the remaining permitting for operation of the proposed Evangeline groundwater project could be approved by the San Patricio County Groundwater District on Feb. 6, a date that city officials have impressed in recent months as vital to beginning construction. Advertisement Advertisement The permits were not granted, said City Manager Peter Zanoni on Feb. 9. Protests filed against the project permitted to pump as much as 24 million gallons of groundwater per day are anticipated to slow the process, city officials said last week. A water well is shown off County Road 73 in Corpus Christi on Dec. 12, 2025. It could significantly disrupt the city of Corpus Christis planned timeline for avoiding, or at least staving off, what is described as a Level 1 water emergency. That is projected for November, should the city fail in building additional water supply. A Level 1 emergency is called when the city is believed to have 180 days before water supply is unable to meet demand. Advertisement Advertisement Curtailment the forced reduction of water use would be in store, should that come to pass. Although Evangeline project developers have a production permit for the well field, they do not have two other permits integral to the project reaching fruition those for drilling and transport. Developers of the project are required to attain the necessary permits before the city considers a final contract for $169 million in groundwater rights. City officials as of last week directed blame for the likely hold-up largely on the city of Sinton, which brought to the table early concerns of how the Evangeline project could potentially affect its own water supply. Advertisement Advertisement We're going to get through it, and we have confidence that ultimately the permits will be approved, said City Manager Peter Zanoni on Feb. 5. But it's at the risk of causing peril in the community, in the region. Sinton's opposition The Evangeline groundwater project is planned for location on property spanning about 23,000 acres near the city of Sinton. The aquifer serves as the sole source of municipal water supply for Sinton, shown by the U.S. Census Bureau as having a population of about 5,500 people. Sinton city officials have long expressed trepidation of the city of Corpus Christis plans and that hasnt changed. Advertisement Advertisement Sinton City Manager John Hobson had indicated that the city of Sinton would fight the issuance of the remaining permits for the Evangeline project, including in public statements made before the Corpus Christi City Council in August. You're doing what's right for y'all; we're going to do what's right for us, Hobson had said. As vowed more than five months ago, the city of Sinton is among the parties challenging the permits. Others include St. Paul Water Supply Corp., a Sinton farmer and a Corpus Christi resident, according to a city-issued news release Feb. 4. The protests The filing of protests will likely mean, at minimum, scheduling a preliminary hearing for a later date to determine whether those contesting the permits have standing, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement That step, from beginning to end, will likely take between 30 and 60 days, although possibly longer, Zanoni said. Officials have known that protests against the permits were possible, but there had been monthslong outreach efforts to include meetings with area leadership and community members to resolve issues, Zanoni said. We anticipated protests, but we thought we were working tirelessly and literally around the clock to take care of all those issues, he said. The unfortunate truth is Sinton stopped communicating with the city. Hobson has in the past named among potential troubles the degradation of Sintons water quality, which he believes could be substantial enough that it could require more extensive, and subsequently more expensive, treatment. Advertisement Advertisement He has also questioned the adequacy of study put into determining effects of the Evangeline operations. More: Voters may get to choose what kind of costs industry pays in drought The protests were to be filed against all of the 23 wells planned for the Evangeline project, Hobson told the Caller-Times on Jan. 28. Zanoni doesnt believe Sinton will be successful in ultimately denying the permits, but working through a legal process takes time, he said. Time is what we don't have, Zanoni said. And so now the actions of Sinton are putting the region really in somewhat of a riskier situation than weve ever seen ourselves in, when it comes to water security. Advertisement Advertisement Hobson was not immediately available for an interview on Feb. 5, but sent a message to the Caller-Times in response to some of the statements of city officials. The protests are not putting the regional water supply at risk, he wrote. The city of (Corpus Christis) lack of action over the years has placed the region in peril. Other groundwater plans City officials have been trying to get ahead of a water emergency a task that appears to have become more daunting in recent weeks. Efforts have included bringing online full capacity of groundwater wells in Nueces County a feat that has also seen significant opposition, with residents voicing similar concerns as those cited by city of Sinton officials. Advertisement Advertisement However, Nueces County does not have a groundwater conservation district, which would enable residents to have more regulatory control. Instead, those properties were brought within the jurisdiction of the Corpus Christi Aquifer Storage and Recovery Groundwater Conservation District. City officials, as part of the permitting for the Nueces County week fields, have agreed to carry out mitigation programs they say would address prospective issues faced by nearby private well owners. What is known as the Eastern well field located along the Nueces River, near County Road 73 is currently producing as much as 10 million gallons of water per day, according to city officials. Advertisement Advertisement The Western Well field, sited off County Road 666 and Northwest Boulevard, is planned to include as many as 12 wells, hoped to generate as much as 17 million gallons of water per day. It is not currently operating, in absence of a bed and banks permit that requires approval of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. A bed and banks permit is what allows the groundwaters ultimate conveyance to the Nueces River. An application was submitted Jan. 30, according to a city memo issued the same date. It would need to be a working well field by May, city officials have said, to avoid a water emergency in November. A third well field may also be on the horizon. Unexpected developments New wrinkles in the citys expectations have emerged in recent weeks. Among them was an announcement last month that water from Lake Texana, delivered through the Mary Rhodes Pipeline, may be curtailed in the spring. Should the lake drop to 50% projected for possibly April the citys allocated amount of about 31,400 acre feet per year would be cut 10%, city officials have said. It was recently disclosed, also, in a Jan. 30 memo that the volume of water produced through the Evangeline groundwater project would be slower-coming than originally thought. Seawater desalination: New Corpus Christi committee to advise on environmental study of desal It had been stated in the past that Phase 1 of the project would boast 12 million gallons of water per day, with a target date of November. Based on new contractors estimates, it appears now that the volume that would be available in November would be 4 million gallons of water per day, with higher volumes to become accessible incrementally until reaching the 24 million gallons of water per day. Nevertheless, city officials are optimistic a water emergency can be postponed. That strategy hinges on Nueces County groundwater wells. The Corpus Christi City Council is slated to make a decision on a third proposed well field in Nueces County on Feb. 10. A posted agenda shows the City Council discussing the possibility of paying $28 million for groundwater rights on a 2,400-acre property owned by the Ed Rachal Foundation, assuming certain terms are met. More: Voters may get to choose what kind of costs industry pays in drought According to a city memo, the acreage would accommodate what would essentially amount to an expansion of the citys Western well field. Its expected the third well field could produce 10 million gallons of water per day, to as much as 20 million gallons of water per day, Zanoni said. That, combined with the other two Nueces County well fields, will help with the Evangeline reality that were seeing now on permitting, he said. Those three projects, plus anything that we can do in Evangeline, will help push back that November (date), Zanoni said. As of Feb. 4, the combined capacity of the citys two main water sources, Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir, measure about 9.5%, according to city data. Effects of water crisis: City of Corpus Christi's credit ratings downgraded due to water issues Potential mitigation The city of Corpus Christi and the city of Sinton had at one point been in discussions for an agreement outlining mitigation measures, should the Evangeline project impact Sintons water supply. Included among the proposed provisions had been a commitment by Corpus Christi Water to construct an interconnect that could convey to Sinton emergency water, should there be a mechanical failure in Sintons systems. While the draft agreement would help address initial concerns, it wouldnt address them all, Hobson told the Caller-Times in December. As of Feb. 5, the agreement that had been floated had not been approved by the Sinton City Council, according to city of Corpus Christi staff. Other mitigation plans for the Evangeline project these not specific to Sinton, but more general are scheduled to be presented to the Corpus Christi City Council for consideration in its Feb. 10 meeting. Among those would be assurance that the city would draw only enough groundwater per day to meet 15% of overall demand. However, that pledge comes with a lengthy list of conditions, a city memo shows. Conditions to limit pumping of groundwater to 15% of demand include requirements that the combined capacity of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir stand at more than 50%, there being no restrictions on availability of water drawn from the Colorado River a source the city has become progressively more reliant on during the drought and having full access to the water under contract that is sourced from Lake Texana, according to the memo. There is also a provision that the city be allowed to operate the well field as needed to the extent required to meet maintenance requirements and maintain its operational capability, the document states. City officials are pitching various forms of monitoring as an augment to the Evangeline well field activities, including monitoring for subsidence, groundwater well production and water quality, according to city documents, in addition to a well assistance program to be offered as mitigation to other well owners. The Evangeline permits Part of the reason city officials dont believe Sinton would be successful in protesting the permits is the spacing of the wells, Zanoni said. Those proposed for the Evangeline project are positioned at least three times farther than required to avoid adversely impacting another well, he said. The city is hoping for mediation with those seeking to protest, with the aim that the protests would be withdrawn, Zanoni added. Alternatively, the preliminary hearing anticipated as of Feb. 5 will be scheduled. That involves the protestants and the applicant agreeing on a judge, who would determine whether opponents have standing, Zanoni said. Without standing, a decision on the permit returns to the San Patricio County Groundwater Conservation District, said Nick Winkelmann, CCW interim chief operating officer. The city was aware of what would likely occur in the San Patricio Groundwater Conservation District meeting, Zanoni said on Feb. 5. Our whole approach has been to be very open and collaborative, he said. So that's the unfortunate part of what's happening. Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com. This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Here's why Sinton is pushing back on controversial groundwater permits Police are bound to follow their departments' policies as they enforce the law. If you think a law enforcement official may have broken either, you can report it. Each of the over 35 law enforcement agencies in the Greater Cincinnati area have unique policies surrounding how they receive and process complaints. Here's what you should know if you're considering reporting an employee from two of Greater Cincinnati's largest law enforcement agencies. How to file a complaint against the Cincinnati Police Department Cincinnati Interim Police Chief Adam Hennie, seen speaking to the media during an October press conference, makes the final decision regarding what discipline Cincinnati police receive after an internal affairs investigation, according to a city website. Cincinnati maintains a separate agency from the police department to investigate officer misconduct. Bringing your complaint directly to the Citizen Complaint Authority ensures it will be considered for independent investigation, said the complaint authority's director, John Kennedy Jr. Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy determines which complaints the authority investigates. The complaint authority can only investigate serious police interventions, he said, such as excessive use of force, discrimination allegations and improper searches. If you're uncertain whether your issue is worth reporting, Kennedy said, always file a complaint to be safe. If your complaint is accepted by the authority, an investigator will determine whether any laws, policies or procedures were broken by officers. If the director and board both agree the investigation showed police policy was violated, the Cincinnati city manager will make a final decision regarding punishment, if warranted. You should hear back from the complaint authority within about two weeks regarding whether the agency will investigate your case, Kennedy said. The authority has a considerable backlog in the cases it's investigating. Advertisement Advertisement Complaints the authority doesn't investigate are referred to Cincinnati police, which may conduct a formal internal affairs investigation or assign the complaint to a supervisor, according to a city website. Internal affairs investigations are sent to the police chief for final disposition. You'll be notified whether any disciplinary or corrective action was taken, according to the city website. If your complaint is regarding quality of service, it may be investigated and assigned to a supervisor. You may be asked to attend a resolution meeting to discuss the grievance. Kennedy said the complaint authority recommended reforms for this process, saying it doesn't truly allow for independent mediation as you aren't allowed to bring anyone else and there is no neutral mediator. Advertisement Advertisement Complaints can be made to the Citizen Complaint Authority online at cincinnati-oh.gov or by phone at 513-352-1600. Complaints can be made to Cincinnati police using their online form. How to file a complaint against the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey, seen waving during the 106th Findlay Market Parade in March, makes the final decision about what discipline is assigned after an internal affairs investigation, according to Major Laetitia Schuler. You can report wrongdoing by sheriff's office staff online at hcso.org or in person at any of the five district offices, according to Major Laetitia Schuler, who runs the Professional Standards Division. While Hamilton County has a community advisory board not unlike Cincinnati, Schuler said the county organization acts as a community sounding board. It doesn't field or investigate personnel complaints, she said. Chief Deputy Chris Ketteman, who ranks just below the sheriff, decides whether each complaint warrants an internal affairs investigation or can be handled by a supervisor. Advertisement Advertisement To understand if your complaint is being investigated as part of a formal internal affairs proceeding or as part of a supervisor's review, you can ask whether it is being processed by the Professional Standards Division, which Schuler said conducts all internal affairs investigations. Like Cincinnati police, Schuler said sheriff's office supervisors usually take on complaints regarding less severe policy violations, such as a deputy speeding on a highway or answering the phone rudely. Supervisors will conduct a "lower scale investigation" and will interview relevant parties, she said. At the end, she said, an officer may issue low-level discipline such as a write up or verbal warning. If the complaint is unsubstantiated, Schuler said, the supervisor may still have a conversation with the employee about their conduct. When Schuler's office completes an internal affairs investigations, the sheriff will make the final decision about what discipline is assigned, if warranted. Regardless of how your complaint is processed, Schuler said a sheriff's office official will inform you of its outcome. Advertisement Advertisement If you are unhappy with the outcome, Schuler said you can email the department's second-in-command, Ketteman, or bring your frustration to the investigating officer's supervisor. What information should be included in a complaint? The Citizen Complaint Authority has a list of things to consider when submitting a complaint. It requests the complaints be as specific as possible and include documentation if applicable. Complaints should include: The date, time and location of the incident. The officer's name, badge number and physical description. Any witnesses' names, addresses and telephone numbers. If you have injuries related to this incident, include: The nature of the injuries. The name of the person administering treatment. The facility where you received treatment. The treatment record for your injuries related to this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Source: City of Cincinnati What types of complaints does the Citizen Complaint Authority investigate? The Authority can only investigate "serious police interventions," according to its director. However, Kennedy encouraged members of the public to still reach out with complaints even if they may not meet the required criteria so his team can help direct the complaints. Discharge of firearms : Any and all discharging of a firearm by a Cincinnati police officer either intentional or accidental. This includes accidental discharge of a firearm whether the projectile strikes anything or not, and intentional shooting by a police officer. Death in custody : A person who dies while in police custody whether or not the Cincinnati police officer's action contributed to the death. "In custody" is defined as under the control of the police. The control does not have to be an arrest or physical possession of a person. Improper pointing of firearms : When a Cincinnati police officer draws his firearm (weapon) from the holster and points it in the direction of, or at, a person. Improper search : The search of one's property (residence, vehicle, etc.) or person without just cause or a search warrant. The search is not unreasonable if it is incident to an arrest or written permission is granted to conduct the search. The courts have granted exceptions to search without a search warrant and each specific incident should be reviewed based on its facts. Improper seizure : The seizure of one's property without the permission of the owner/possessor or a warrant. The courts have granted exceptions to a seizure without a search warrant and each specific incident should be reviewed based on its facts. Discrimination : Contact or action by a Cincinnati police officer that was motivated by the race, gender or age of a person. Use of force : A Cincinnati police officer's use of some type of force whether physical, instrumental, or physical contact restricting the movement of a person. Excessive force: A Cincinnati police officer's use of some type of force, whether physical or by instrument, that is beyond what is reasonably necessary. Source: City of Cincinnati This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: How to report Cincinnati police, Hamilton County Sheriff's Office Crews battled flames at a home in Gloucester County on Sunday night. It happened at 8:30 p.m. on the 400 block of College Boulevard in Deptford Township, New Jersey. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and fire coming from the attic of the home. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has issued a subpoena to the City of Jacksonville and Mayor Donna Deegans administration. The legal request seeks all communications from the citys Hispanic Outreach Coordinator following a controversial livestream regarding local immigration operations. The subpoena follows an incident involving Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Yanira Cardona, who was placed on leave last month. Cardona allegedly posted a social media livestream warning residents about the locations of immigration operations and encouraging people to stay home to avoid law enforcement. The subpoena requests all texts, emails and phone calls made by Cardona, the citys Hispanic Outreach Coordinator. Investigators are looking for specific keywords, including the names and vehicle descriptions of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Advertisement Advertisement The request also seeks slideshows and references to methods used to evade law enforcement. The attorney general is also seeking records involving Jennifer Cruz, a woman accused of assaulting law enforcement agents during immigration operations in Jacksonville last month. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Cruz was arrested in January during the same period the outreach coordinators livestream was posted. Uthmeier suggested the investigation could reveal violations of state or federal law if Cardona collaborated with other individuals or groups to help immigrants evade authorities. Uthmeier noted that local officials have a legal duty to assist the federal government under a state law passed in February 2025. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Deegans administration released the following statement: Advertisement Advertisement Instead of addressing the pocketbook concerns of Floridians -- including property insurance, housing costs, and healthcare -- the Attorney General is once again on a hyper-partisan fishing expedition as we enter election season. The City of Jacksonville has received and will fully cooperate with a subpoena received from the Office of Statewide Prosecution. We are confident that a review of the facts will show the administration acted lawfully, as we always do. As a reminder, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office has a duly elected Sheriff and maintains the sole responsibility for coordination and interaction with state and federal immigration agencies. The mayor does not hold any authority over those activities under our consolidated government. We remain committed to following the law, upholding the Constitution, and keeping everyone in our community safe. We will continue to focus on moving Jacksonville forward. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. The skies over Vero Beach will get busier this week, when a third passenger airline launches service at Vero Beach Regional Airport Thursday, Feb. 12. American Airlines will begin offering a daily nonstop from Vero Beach to its Charlotte, North Carolina, hub. It joins JetBlue, which began passenger service in December, and Breeze Airways, which has been offering passenger service from Vero Beach since 2023. The airport and city are planning a private celebration to welcome the new airline, just as they did with JetBlue's inaugural flight in December. Advertisement Advertisement American, which is headquartered in Dallas-ort Worth, plans one daily roundtrip to Charlotte on a Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet, with a 76-90 passenger capacity. The inaugural two-hour flight is scheduled to leave Charlotte at 9:25 a.m., touching down in Vero Beach at 11:30 a.m. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is American's the second-largest hub in the United States, behind Dallas-Fort Worth. The airport has more than 670 daily flights to more than 170 destinations in 27 countries. A third passenger airline will make the airport an even busier place. American Flight 5650 is scheduled to land at the same time Breeze Airways takes off for Hartford, Connecticut. After a quick turnaround, American takes off at noon for its return to Charlotte. Florida gets more flights. Breeze hits Vero Beach milestone | Opinion Advertisement Advertisement Enjoy the free parking at this Florida airport. It won't last long Thursdays and Sundays will be the busiest days at the airport, with eight scheduled departures among Breeze, JetBlue and American, said Airport Director Todd Scher. "We're pretty much at capacity," Scher said. No additional airlines have expressed interest in bringing service to Vero Beach, Scher said. Even the three airlines that will be here might have trouble adding destinations since only evening and early- morning times will be available, he said. The current schedule, accommodating American's route, works well for the airport, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Colleen Wixon is the Indian River County government watchdog reporter for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: American Airlines arriving Feb. 12 to new Florida city airport The big story: The Florida Education Association and United Faculty of Florida have quietly withdrawn their complaint against the state rule requiring college instructors to post course syllabi online at least 45 days before the first day of class. Lawyers for the unions filed a one-line notice with the Division of Administrative Hearings on Friday saying they would no longer seek a determination that the rule was invalid. It came 10 days after an administrative law judge rejected the states motion to dismiss the complaint, but told the unions to submit added details about which provisions of the rule were being challenged and how each would substantially affect members. The unions contended in a December press release that the rule was an unlawful and unconstitutional overreach of agency authority in violation of Floridas Administrative Procedure Act. They also said it undermines academic freedom and campus safety. Advertisement Advertisement When we got more information that we had not previously had, we decided it was appropriate to withdraw, Andrew Spar, the Florida Education Association president, said Sunday in a text message. He said he needed to get more specifics from the union legal team. Education commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas declared victory over the unions in couple of social media posts over the weekend, calling the activity another courtroom loss for the FEA. Kamoutsas and Gov. Ron DeSantis have frequently criticized teacher unions as not working in the best interest of students and families. Money that should be going to support Floridas teachers was once again wasted on a frivolous lawsuit they were never going to win, Kamoutsas, who also sits on the university system Board of Governors, wrote on X. They walked away because they know the truth: transparency matters. Posting syllabi and reading lists for postsecondary students is simply the right thing to do. The information also captured the attention of national school choice activist Corey DeAngelis, an adjunct scholar at the libertarian Cato Institute. He wrote about it for the Real Truth Media website, where the story titled Florida Teachers Unions Lose In Court was trending over the weekend. Hot topics Rays on campus: Hillsborough College faculty, students and staff are weighing the pros and cons of a proposal to build a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium on the schools Dale Mabry campus. Advertisement Advertisement Protests: Students at more than a half dozen high schools across the Tampa Bay region walked out of classes Friday to protest ICE activity. Hundreds of Broward County teens participated in anti-ICE rallies and walkouts, WTVJ reports. A few dozen Volusia County high school students protested in downtown DeLand, Spectrum 13 reports. Students at several Lee County high schools held walkouts and protests against U.S. immigration enforcement, the Fort Myers News-Press reports. Students at one Alachua County high school protested for the second straight week, WCJB reports. Students at three Brevard County high schools walked out of class, Central Florida Public Media reports. Immigration enforcement: A Jacksonville parents group says ICE activity near schools is leading to decreased attendance, while district officials say ICE is not coming into schools, Jacksonville Today reports. Brevard County school officials spelled out how staff should handle interactions with ICE agents who come to schools, Florida Today reports. Health report: All Florida high school student athletes will be required to undergo an electrocardiogram to participate in sports, beginning in July, Bay News 9 reports. Panhandle area school districts will be sending home students with high fevers or rashes in light of a recent measles case reported in the area, the Pensacola News-Journal reports. Diversity, equity and inclusion: Students at Florida A&M University say theyve been told not to use the word Black in their flyers advertising Black History Month events, WKMG reports. It was Black, affirmative action, and women as well, law student Aaliyah Steward said. Advertisement Advertisement College enrollment: A state lawmaker has proposed limiting the number of out-of-state students at four of Floridas public universities, the Orlando Sentinel reports. Campus security: The Florida Legislatures latest bill to enhance school safety and security does more than set up a guardian program for postsecondary institutions, its most talked about feature, WTSP reports. Bus rides: Bus driver shortages are causing frustration for Clay County families, WJXT reports. Budget cuts: St. Johns County school district officials say the district could be $15 million short next year, with vouchers a prime culprit, First Coast News reports. Supporters of Leon Countys locally operated virtual school are pressing the school district not to shut down the program as a cost-saving measure, the Tallahassee Democrat reports. Advertisement Advertisement Bell schedules: The Santa Rosa County school district is asking parents for their thoughts about possible bell schedule changes for seven schools, the Pensacola News-Journal reports. From the police blotter ... A Miami-Dade County teen was arrested on accusations of attacking two school employees during a classroom altercation, WPLG reports. From the court docket ... Theres a new class action lawsuit challenging the Hillsborough County school districts appeals process for school bus camera violations, WFTS reports. A former Marion County school administrator pleaded guilty to 15 charges tied to inappropriate contact with students, WCJB reports. A former Pinellas County charter school teacher pleaded guilty to several child exploitation charges. In their own words Peaceful protests are meant to be a form of resistance. We could be living under a government where we cant organize a protest. But we do have that liberty. Rafael Faraci, St. Petersburg High School student government leader, amid student anti-ICE protests statewide (Tampa Bay Times) Advertisement Advertisement When our state leaders speak to us, we listen. We respectfully listen to that, but were not governed by the volume of politics. Were governed by the voice of our people, and also what is lawful, definitely. Karen Perez, Hillsborough County school board chairperson (Tampa Bay Times) I feel like we need to be very careful in terms of redistricting now, that we dont push more (students) out. We want to make it so we grab those kids back. Marihelen Wheeler, Alachua County commissioner, on redrawing school boundaries (Independent Florida Alligator) Quick quiz Florida lawmakers are talking about high school marching band. Whats up with that? a) Theyre looking for groups to perform at special events Advertisement Advertisement b) They want to require all students to participate in band to graduate c) They want to let students use marching band to meet their graduation requirements for PE and art Find the answer from News Service of Florida. Dont miss a story. Heres a link to Fridays roundup. Jeffrey S, Solochek is a reporter covering education as a member of the Tampa Bay Times Education Hub. You can contribute to the hub through our journalism fund by clicking here. The Ford worker who called Donald Trump a pedophile protector while the president toured a Michigan auto factory last month still has his job and no discipline on his record, an official with the United Auto Workers union said Monday. The incident became national news because Trump responded to the worker, TJ Sabula, by giving him the middle finger and mouthing the words **** you, according to video at the time. Ford suspended Sabula over his heckling. Politics: GOP Senate Candidate Mocked For Strange Admission In Super Bowl Halftime Post UAW Vice President Laura Dickerson said in a speech Monday at the unions conference in Washington, D.C., that the UAW would continue to support Sabula. Advertisement Advertisement TJ has got his job. And, more importantly, TJ has no discipline on his record, Dickerson said, prompting UAW chants. She added, As UAW members, we speak truth to power. We dont just protect rights we exercise them. Although she said Sabula is still employed, Dickerson did not address the status of his suspension. According to a union source, Ford had suspended Sabula with pay. Ford did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. Dickersons remarks were first reported by the Detroit News. Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. President Donald Trump tours the assembly line at the Ford River Rouge Complex on Jan. 13, 2026, in Dearborn, Michigan. Anna Moneymaker via Getty Images Sabulas taunt was an obvious reference to Trumps relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and *** offender who took his own life in prison in 2019. Trump had palled around with Epstein in New York City and once told a reporter that Epstein was a terrific guy who liked women on the younger side. Advertisement Advertisement After he was suspended, Sabula told The Washington Post he had no regrets over his run-in with the president. Politics: 'The President Is Insane': Trump Mocked After New Meltdown On An Unexpected Topic I dont feel as though fate looks upon you often, and when it does, you better be ready to seize the opportunity, the factory worker said. And today I think I did that. The UAW endorsed Democrat Kamala Harris over Trump in the 2024 election, and its president, Shawn Fain, became one of Trumps loudest critics in organized labor. The labor leader frequently called Trump a scab and a con man who put his wealthy friends before working-class people. Advertisement Advertisement Dickerson said Trumps response to Sabula showed what the president really thinks about working people. It took a lot of courage for that worker ... to speak his mind to the most powerful person in the world, she said, when the easy thing to do would have been to say nothing at all. Related... Read the original on HuffPost Former Charlotte City Councilmember Tiawana Brown formally pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday, Feb. 9, in connection with a COVID-19 relief fraud scheme. Brown appeared before a federal judge at 10:30 a.m. Brown pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. A sentencing date hasn't been set. According to federal court records, Brown admitted to conspiring with her two daughters, Tijema Brown and Antionette Rouse, to submit fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Former Charlotte councilperson Tiawana Brown pleads guilty in COVID-19 relief scheme Prosecutors said the applications included false tax documents and misrepresented business operations, payroll costs and employee numbers. Investigators said Brown and her daughters submitted at least 15 loan applications between April 2020 and September 2021. While some applications were denied, prosecutors said Brown obtained more than $43,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. The plea agreement states she also attempted to obtain an additional $20,000, bringing the total intended loss to more than $63,000. Court records allege some of the money was used for personal expenses, including luxury purchases and an elaborate birthday celebration. The cases against Browns daughters remain ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Contact Destiny Richards at drichards5@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram Download WCNC+ on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV or Samsung device, and stream the news that impacts you for free. A former longtime attorney for Oklahoma City says the city engaged in a nefarious scheme to keep potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars from civil forfeitures that should have gone to victims, the courts or back to the owners. Orval Jones, 67, claimed in an affidavit filed Feb. 5 in Oklahoma County District Court that the city failed to provide to the courts information related to property seizures involving criminal cases. In such cases the court has consistently held that the funds be used for victim restitution, court costs, probation and incarceration fees before allowing the seizing agency to claim the money, Jones wrote in the affidavit. Jones also wrote that, after meeting with assistant district attorneys, he tried turning over a list of seizures going back 20 years, totaling more than $400,000. But his supervisor took over the case and failed to inform the court of critical information that would allow judges to know if a criminal case was involved and to assert the court's priority claims. Advertisement Advertisement As tensions over the issue heated up, Jones said the OKC police chief asked he be transferred out of the property division in March 2025. Jones said he eventually resigned six months later. "It is critical for the reputation of Oklahoma City that we are not considered the center of highway robbery in the heart of the country," Jones wrote to a city official in January in an email obtained by The Oklahoman. Staff at the office of Kenneth Jordan, the city's top attorney, said they could not comment about the matter because it was pending litigation. An on-call OKC police public information officer said Feb. 8 she was unfamiliar with the issue but suggested contacting the department's full-time spokespeople the next weekday. The police department's Office of Media Relations had not responded to a request for comment by Monday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement More: Old legal quirk lets police take your money with little reason, critics say Former city attorney had investigated issues with civil forfeiture returns for years Orval Jones is a former assistant municipal counselor for Oklahoma City. Now retired, Jones was a seasoned attorney with Oklahoma City, working as an assistant municipal counselor for more than 25 years, from early 1999 to late 2025. The affidavit from the attorney says he resigned under duress in September 2025, detailing the circumstances of his departure alongside lengthy casework on civil forfeitures spanning the past decade. In 2017, a man was arrested and incarcerated but did not see money returned to him that had been seized by OKC police. A friendly lawsuit was filed under the Tort Claims Act on his behalf in 2018, claiming that failure of police to identify his address from the states prison online database was likely negligence. Jones said that the mans name, but not his address, had been included in a larger request that he had signed as an attorney, asking that the mans $7,000 seized by OKC police be transferred to the city fund. At the time, the city received the seized money without opposition. Advertisement Advertisement The ultimate result, Jones explained, was that police took the man's money, used the unclaimed-property statute to get a district-court order allowing the City to keep it, and then used the tort-claim statute to get a judgment on the (property) tax roll, allowing the City to pay him back with taxpayer money (while the City kept his money), per the affidavit. An exterior view of the Oklahoma City Police Department headquarters in Oklahoma City. An officer was terminated after an investigation into misconduct. [Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman] Jones wrote he and city auditors later found that another massive list of "unclaimed property" showing most owners as "unknown" actually had ownership information clearly available in OKC police reports. Soon afterward, another inmate filed three civil cases, requesting return of currency and other property seized in three different incidents tied to criminal cases and convictions. "This led me to research the concept of exclusive jurisdiction in connection with criminal prosecutions where property is held (in the custody of the law)," Jones wrote. "I discovered that courts around the country have applied the concept in criminal cases, too." In one of the civil suits, it was determined that the judge in a civil case cannot determine the transfer of funds seized in the course of criminal cases that remain open for jurisdictional purposes. That currency is considered legally "in the custody of the court" until the criminal case is fully closed and no adjudicated claims remain. Incomplete sentencing requirements could also include unsatisfied victim restitution, unpaid courts costs, and other unpaid fines and fees. Advertisement Advertisement Jones suggested, and the Oklahoma City Council requested, updating state law after it became clear that OKCPD was resistant to returning money to anyone who had been arrested in the incident with the inmate. State law in 2021 was subsequently amended, clarifying a presumption of ownership for a person who was entitled to the return of their seized property without having to prove how they acquired the money. Former city attorney alleges that police chief requested reassignment after detailed reviews of forfeiture lists The newly renovated fountain located in the downtown lawn of city hall is back in operation on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016, in Oklahoma City, Okla. [CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN] Jones wrote that his effort to clean up the process for civil forfeitures and property returns stretched over eight years. By early 2025, Jones said that it had been determined that the Oklahoma County District Attorney should be doing ongoing audit work on whether or not police had submitted seizures to which the court would have priority claim. He said he met with a few assistant prosecutors in January 2025 to encourage them to take over the task, but "they were noncommittal," Jones wrote. That same month, Jones said he addressed the priority of claims with Oklahoma County Judge Elizabeth Kerr, who presides over the civil property return docket. Around that time, the District Attorney made claims in three individual criminal cases for restitution and unpaid probation fees, wiping out all ownership interests and the city's claim to unclaimed funds, Jones wrote. Advertisement Advertisement The former city attorney's affidavit details three lists relating to civil asset forfeiture funds: an "Over $500 List," an "Over $250 List," and the "$250 and Under List." Jones said the three lists were accompanied with affidavit forms verified by a police lieutenant and applications signed by himself as legal counsel for the city. They were later submitted in March 2025 to Judge Kerr's civil docket, he specified. "These affidavits were not designed to be used in criminal cases and thus failed to address the important issue of whether any listed seizures had resulted from arrests in filed criminal cases," Jones wrote. Edmond Chief of Police JD Younger, left, and Oklahoma City Chief of Police Ron Bacy during the monthly meeting of the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. On March 3, 2025, Jones wrote that his supervisor, assistant city attorney Kelea Fisher, "instructed the OKCPD to leave out the identifying dates of birth that would allow for criminal cases to be ferreted out, and determined that no criminal case numbers would be ascertained." But, as Jones wrote in an email to Fisher, "the Criminal Court Case number is critical because the search for priority claims of the Court requires an individual search of each criminal case number to determine if the court costs were paid." Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, Jones said he spent the day looking up police reports and insisting that police add birthdates to the "Over $250 List" and provide birthdates on the lengthier "Over $500 List." A week later, Jones wrote that he was "permanently removed from the property assignment at the request of the Chief of Police," Ron Bacy, who had been selected by city management for the role the previous August. In June 2025, Jones delayed a summer vacation to instead figure out, using publicly available information, how to match the lists with criminal court case filings. He would later submit his audit of the lists to both his supervisor Fisher and the city auditor, Matt Weller, according to the affidavit. "By the City claiming and obtaining a civil court order to transfer these funds to City ownership, the individual owners were not credited with reduction of unpaid costs and the district court was deprived of its right to assert a property right to payment of uncollected costs from funds in its own custody and under its exclusive jurisdiction," Jones wrote. Fisher's response "was negative and dismissive," according to Jones. Fisher's supervisor, deputy municipal counselor Paula Kelly, also wrote to Jones, saying "you are not to engage in any work related to property disposition, at any time or for any purpose whatsoever," according to Jones' affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Related: Why are innocent people still losing cash, cars and even homes to police? Council members Todd Stone and municipal counselor, Kenneth Jordan, from left, attend a city council meeting at Oklahoma City City Hall building on Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021, in Oklahoma City, Okla. Signs have been posted encouraging the use of mask, no matter vaccination status at the building. Jones has since quit working for the city. He also is asking that his signature be removed from transfer applications involving the prior cases. Jones said he now understands that he'd previously signed off on the documents in violation of ethical obligations. He wrote that the orders should be vacated due to "violations of diligence" on his own part and "violations of candor" from other city attorneys who failed to notify the court of inappropriate procedures when the funds were transferred to city ownership. My signatures were applied without appropriate diligence to determine if the Court had jurisdiction to enter a valid order in a civil proceeding (which it did not), Jones wrote. Therefore I hereby disaffirm the Applications as required by mandatory professional ethics. Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, the Judge was not informed at the hearing of the fraudulent intent or effect of the applications, resulting in direct violation of two distinct ethical duties, Jones also wrote. When reached by The Oklahoman on Monday, the municipal counselor's office declined to comment. Calls from The Oklahoman to Judge Kerr's office also went unreturned. Jones affidavit reveals the pressure tactic that was employed to initiate these proceedings without due diligence, and the bait-and-switch ploy that removed the original counsel of record from the assignment before the hearing, the former city attorney wrote. The new counsel of record had the same ethical duty of candor upon replacing the original counsel of record, but intentionally declined to disclose this nefarious scheme to transfer seized currency to the government coffer. Ultimately, Jones is asking that the judge direct Oklahoma City to send notice to all owners of seized money, regardless of the amount at issue. He then asks that Oklahoma City file new motions in every Oklahoma County criminal case. He would also like to see the same happen for criminal cases in the neighboring Cleveland and Canadian counties, as well as the OKCs Criminal Court of Record, according to the affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement When reached by The Oklahoman, Jones declined to provide further comment on the filings, but did confirm that he submitted the documents during the first week of February. "The City of Oklahoma Citys unclaimed property is not the responsibility of the DAs Office," spokesperson Brook Arbeitman told The Oklahoman on Monday. "However, in an effort to be a good partner, we are working with the City to identify cases that are still open (and as such the property cannot be destroyed or returned) to help with clearing out their property." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Attorney alleges 'nefarious scheme' with money seized by OKC police Ugandan artists perform during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) KAMPALA, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, the chief guest at the event, officially launched the initiative after touring exhibition stands showcasing Chinese and Ugandan products and services, including heavy machinery, traditional cuisine, and tourism offerings. The event also featured lion dances and cultural performances blending Chinese and Ugandan elements. Alupo said China-Uganda cooperation has delivered mutual benefits, praising China's support in infrastructure development, education scholarships and capacity-building programs. She said that people-to-people exchange forms the strongest foundation for enduring partnerships, noting that Africa and China have designated 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange. "The Year of the Horse symbolizes action and movement, independence and freedom, energy, resilience, and social connection. Therefore, as we mark this auspicious occasion, I wish to reaffirm Uganda's commitment to further strengthening relations with China," Alupo said. Fan Xuecheng, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, said that the Spring Festival is the most important traditional festival for the Chinese people and that celebrations such as the temple fair reflect the people-centered nature of China-Uganda cooperation. "China and Uganda are both at a critical stage of development and revitalization. The future we seek is one of peace, prosperity, and shared dignity. Let us take the opportunity of the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchanges to deepen friendship, strengthen cooperation, and build trust from the heart," Fan said. China's Spring Festival will fall on Feb. 17 this year, marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse. The horse is the seventh animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. The celebrations were jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, and the Chinese Union in Uganda. Exhibitors said the event highlighted growing interest in Chinese culture among Ugandans. Zhang Yiwen, a manager at Ganghua Hotel, said many locals visited their booth to taste Chinese dishes, describing the enthusiasm as a sign of deepening people-to-people ties. The event also featured performances by Chinese and Ugandan artists. Mizizi Ensemble showcased Uganda's cultural diversity through traditional dances, while an art troupe from China presented Wuju Opera, also known as Jinhua Opera, a traditional regional theatrical form with a history of more than 400 years that is popular in China's Zhejiang Province. Ugandan artists perform during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) Ugandan artists perform during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) A Chinese artist performs Chinese traditional opera during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo signs on a painting depicting a horse during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) People film a firework show with their phones during a temple fair to launch the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Kampala, Uganda, Feb. 8, 2026. Uganda launched the China-Uganda Year of People-to-People Exchange on Sunday in the capital, Kampala, during a temple fair held to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua) LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Former Eaton County Sheriff Rick Jones was arrested Saturday night by the Michigan State Police for operating under the influence. Jones said he was arrested by the Michigan State Police following a one vehicle crash. He told 6 News he swerved to avoid a deer and ended up crashing into a decorative rock. His airbag deployed he said, causing a bloody nose. And my statement is everybody makes mistakes, Jones said. Im human too. But I was very cooperative with the state police and was punished like anybody else would be. And I really have nothing more to say about that. (File/WLNS) Jones said he spent the night of Feb. 7 and morning of Feb 8 in the Eaton County Jail. He did not discuss what, if any bond, he had to pay to be released. Advertisement Advertisement Jones, a Republican, served as Eaton County Sheriff 2000-2004, after serving as a deputy for 31 years. He was elected to the Michigan State House in 2004, starting his service in 2005. He was elected to the Michigan Senate in 2010, starting his service in that chamber in 2011. He was forced to retire from the legislature in 2018 due to term limits. Hes made an additional run for Eaton County Sheriff, losing to current Sheriff Tom Reich. Jones was elected Supervisor for Oneida Township in November 2024. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. Jill Bidens ex-husband stands accused of killing his latest spouse at their Delaware home and sources are calling his arrest the latest black eye for the former first ladys beleaguered family. William Stevenson, 77, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of 64-year-old Linda Stevenson, who was found unresponsive on the couples living room floor by officers responding to a domestic violence call on Dec. 28, according to New York Post. Linda could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene but authorities have yet to release the cause of her untimely demise. Advertisement Advertisement Just over one month later, the suspect was taken into custody and is being held on $500,000 bail as he awaits trial. Jill, 74, and bar owner Stevenson divorced in 1975 after five years of marriage. He and Jill had worked on her future hubby Joes first campaign for Senate in 1972. He has claimed his then-wife and the widower politician who tragically lost first wife Neilia and their infant daughter in a car crash that year had an affair. However, Jill and Joe maintain that they first met in 1975 after being set up on a date following her divorce and Neilias death. Stevensons legal woes come after a series of scandals surrounding the Bidens. Advertisement Advertisement As the National Enquirer previously reported, critics have accused Jill, who married the ex-prez in 1977, of being a power-hungry puppet master who pushed for Joes ultimately aborted 2024 presidential reelection bid even as his physical and cognitive health were failing. Joe and Neilias son Hunter also made headlines when a laptop he abandoned in 2019 at a repair shop appeared to contain damning photos of him cavorting with prostitutes. Hunter has also been accused of cashing in on his dads VP position under then-president Barack Obama by accepting lucrative positions around the world, including a $1 million-a-year job on the board of directors of a Ukrainian oil and gas firm. The Enquirer also reported that court documents revealed Joes brother James leveraged the familys name and political connections to score a profitable gig orchestrating shady backroom deals with Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Read More From National Enquirer This story Former First Lady Jill Bidens Ex-Husband Accused of Killing Wife, Being Held on $500,000 Bail first appeared on National Enquirer. Add National Enquirer as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Diane Jordan, the first Black woman to serve on the Knox County Commission, has died. She was 78 years old. Jordan, who suffered a stroke, is survived by her husband of 41 years, the Rev. John Jordan, eight children and more than 20 grandchildren. Jordan served as a Democrat on the Knox County Commission from 1994 to 2007, and remained active for decades after that, always recognizable the statement hat she always wore. In 2014, she was the proud owner of more than 125 cowboy hats and more than 250 Sunday hats, the Knox News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Jordan's public service and private industry careers were expansive. In 2017, the Interstate 275 bridge over Elm Street/Bernard Avenue was renamed "Diane Jordan Pass" to honor her. Knoxville City Councilmember Amelia Parker praised Jordan for her tenacity and the support she offered to people throughout the community. "She talked about events she would host in the community when her fellow commissioners did not want to have the conversation, inspiring some of the strategies I, too, would adopt while in office," Parker wrote on Facebook. "You will be missed, Commissioner Jordan. Oh, how I wish we had more time." The Rev. Renee Kesler, director of Beck Cultural Exchange Center, said Jordan broke barriers. Advertisement Advertisement "Commissioner Jordans life stands as a powerful testament to service, excellence, and perseverance," Kesler said on behalf of Beck's board and staff. "Her legacy is woven into the fabric of this community and will endure for generations to come. Our community has lost a great stateswoman, but heaven has welcomed a faithful servant." The 1965 Austin-East Magnet High School graduate worked in reservations for Delta Airlines for 20 years and was the First Lady in her church community. Jordan served on the Knox County Election Commission, was the recipient of the YWCA's 1990 Tribute to Women Award for volunteer service and was a board member of Drug Free America and the Knoxville NAACP, according to Knox News archives. She was a trailblazer. Knox News reported in 1998 that Jordan had a real estate license and was among the only women in Knox County to hold an auctioneer's license. Jordan first ran for office with the intention of shining a light on police brutality, which she said permeated her predominantly Black district. She told Knox News in 1998 that after her first term "that has dropped off considerably since now it's out in the open." Advertisement Advertisement During her second term as a Knox County commissioner, she focused on economic development. Toward the end of her second term, in 2006, she was one of five county commissioners and the named plaintiff who sued Knox County, arguing the county charter wasnt properly instituted and term limits didnt apply as they sought reelection. Ultimately, the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that while there were deficiencies in the charter, its term limits should be enforced. A dozen officeholders, including Jordan, were removed from office. The decision became national news weeks later when commissioners held backroom talks during recess of a commission meeting to appoint friends and relatives to take their spots, an event that came to be known locally as Black Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after Black Wednesday, Knox News filed a lawsuit, which was later merged with a suit by a group of citizens. A court eventually determined that the county mishandled the appointments and forced them to be done again. Jordan was a mentor to former Knoxville Councilperson Gwen McKenzie when she first ran for office, she told Knox News. McKenzie was the first Black woman elected to the council, and Jordans journey helped her prepare, she said. She said, to just stay true to yourself and stand on integrity, McKenzie told Knox News. Do not let people influence you into negativity. Just stay focused and positive. She never allowed herself to get pulled into that kind of stuff. She was the kind of person who always took the high road, a move together kind of approach. McKenzie said Jordan was a bridge-builder and peacekeeper, traits that were essential during some of the citys darkest times in the late 1990s when, over a 15-month period, four people died in police custody. Three of them were Black residents. Advertisement Advertisement She handled it by speaking truth to power and by standing up and getting it right going forward She would actually go out in the middle of the night when something was going on to make sure things would be peaceful." Knox County Commissioner Chair Gina Oster, a Cedar Bluff Republican, told Knox News Jordan was a strong advocate for the people she served. "I appreciate she charted a place for women in that time to serve their communities in an elected position," Oster said. Knoxville Councilmember Denzel Grant said Jordan created a path for leaders to "serve with purpose and confidence." "She was truly one of a kind in her leadership and unwavering in her voice," said Grant, who succeeded McKenzie to represent District 6. "Her style was just as bold as her impact. From the way she dressed, she showed that authenticity and excellence can walk hand in hand. Her legacy will live on through the doors she opened and the many lives she touched." Advertisement Advertisement Knox News reporter Tyler Whetstone contributed to this report. Allie Feinberg is the politics reporter for Knox News. Email: allie.feinberg@knoxnews.com; Reddit: u/KnoxNewsAllie This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Former Knox County Commissioner Diane Jordan dies A Brockton man has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for bribing a road test examiner to issue drivers licenses to people who did not pass or, in some cases, even take road tests at the Registry of Motor Vehicles, the U.S. Attorney said Monday. Carlos Cardoso, 72, was sentenced Friday to time served (one day in prison) to be followed by two years of supervised release with the first six months to be spent in home incarceration, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani handed down his sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Cardoso was also ordered to pay a $5,500 fine. In June 2025, Cardoso pleaded guilty to one count of honest services mail fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit honest services mail fraud. In May 2024, Cardoso was indicted by a federal grand jury. Prosecutors said Cardoso, the former owner of a driving school, paid cash bribes totaling more than $20,000 to a road test examiner at the Brockton RMV service center to misrepresent that certain drivers license applicants had passed their road test when, in fact, they had not. Some of the applicants did not even show up to take the test, prosecutors said. As a result of the fraud, the RMV mailed drivers licenses to unqualified applicants. Advertisement Advertisement This case is not the first time the Brockton RMV has been at the center of controversy. In January 2024, another driving instructor agreed to plead guilty to bribery charges. In 2023, two were charged in connection with a drivers license fraud scheme. 25 Investigates: Two charged in connection with Brockton RMV Drivers License Fraud This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW NEW YORK Former New York Mayor Eric Adams was fined $4,000 for a mayoral campaign trail stunt last summer during which he handed out whistles for female reporters he said might feel unsafe talking to then-political opponent Andrew Cuomo. Adams broke rules guarding government resources by having staffers on the citys dime distribute whistles to reporters as a dig to Cuomo at the August 22 City Hall press conference, the Conflicts of Interest Board said Monday. At the Aug. 22 event, Adams explained the whistles were to protect female reporters against unwanted advances from Cuomo, who was accused of alleged sexual harassment by 13 women. Cuomo has denied those allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Many of these women here are interviewing Andrew Cuomo, and they feel unsafe, Adams said at the time. Theyre going to have a whistle to help them through it. Adams went on to endorse Cuomos bid for mayor just two months later. The former mayor exited the race on Sept. 28. He had called the press conference to defend his longtime advisers Ingrid Lewis-Martin and Jesse Hamilton soon after they were indicted. I acknowledge that, by having City Hall staffers distribute whistles for attendees of an official City Hall press conference for the purpose of drawing negative attention to an opponent in my reelection campaign during that press conference and when they were required to be performing work for the City, I violated City Charter (rules), Adams wrote in a disposition dated in December. A spokesperson for Adams could not be immediately reached for comment. A spokesperson for Cuomo declined to comment. Advertisement Advertisement At the time, the Adams was seeking reelection despite numerous setbacks, including controversies regarding his federal charges and friendly relationship with President Trump and allegations of corruption within the upper ranks of his administration. Adams has himself been accused of sexual assault. Also on Monday, an ex-aide in Adams office was fined $400 for violating city rules by using his government email account to advertise a kickoff event for Adams reelection bid. That violation was first reported by the Daily News in June. I accidentally sent the email from my work account instead of my personal Gmail, he wrote in an email to The News, adding he was multitasking at the time, dealing with personal matters. Advertisement Advertisement And Councilmember Joann Ariola was fined $2,000 for posting a press release containing the seal of the City Council about her support for Republican Curtis Sliwas run for mayor. That seal cant be used for political endorsements, per city rules. _____ Four people were hurt after a crash in Attleboro on Sunday night. According to police, around 7:26 p.m., crews responded to I-95 South in the area of Exit 2 for a report of a crash. Upon arrival, crews found that four cars had been involved in the crash with six vehicle occupants. The southbound lanes of the highway were temporarily closed while firefighters freed one of the occupants from the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement That occupant was freed, and four individuals were transported to Rhode Island Hospital with injuries. Two people involved in the crash declined treatment. The significant damage to the vehicles and the number of patients required careful assessment and triage, along with a complex extrication, said District Chief Michael Maitland. Our crews worked efficiently and professionally under dark, cold, and challenging conditions. Massachusetts State Police are investigating the cause of the crash. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW University of Kentucky President Herman L. Donovan raised purebred cattle at Battlefield Stock Farm near Richmond. He also championed lifelong learning. Donovan Scholarships for Kentuckians who are 65 or older are named in his honor. (University of Kentucky Libraries, Special Collections Research Center, Louis Edward Nollau F Series Photographic Print Collection) FRANKFORT For 50 years the legislature has waived tuition and fees at public universities and colleges for Kentuckians who have passed their 65th birthdays. That would end if the chair of the House Standing Committee on Postsecondary Education has his way. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. James Tipton, R-Taylorsville, is sponsoring House Bill 497 which would repeal the 1976 law that created the waiver that benefits Donovan Scholars and other students who are 65 or older. Herman L. Donovan, a champion of lifelong learning, was president of the University of Kentucky from 1941 to 1956 and before that president of whats now Eastern Kentucky University. UK and other institutions have named the tuition benefit in his honor. The prospect of seniors losing free access to public higher education is not sitting well with some, including Nathan Goldman, chair of the University of Louisville Donovan Scholars, a campus club. The club last week sent out an alert urging people to contact their lawmakers to oppose the bill. Rep. James Tipton, R-Taylorsville, says Kentuckians older than 65 should pay their own tuition. (LRC Public Information) Tipton in an interview last week with the Lantern emphasized that universities and colleges could still waive tuition for older students if they chose after his bill becomes law. But the committee chair questioned the value of supporting higher education for seniors: Are they going out and getting a job? Are they contributing to the economic success of the state, and is it fair for the taxpayers of Kentucky to be paying that bill? Herman L. Donovan (University of Kentucky Libraries, Special Collections Research Center) Education is a life process In the 1950s, University of Kentucky President, Herman L. Donovan attended a seminar with pioneering leaders in gerontology. He became a strong advocate of higher education for retired persons. Intellectual life cannot be ignored, he said. Education is a life process. Advertisement Advertisement In 1964, on the recommendation of then UK President John Oswald, the Board of Trustees approved the Herman L. Donovan Scholarship for Senior Citizens, waiving tuition for adults 65 and older. In the Fall of 1964, 26 Donovan Scholars, ranging from 65 to 84 joined traditional UK students on campus for the first time. In 1967, Amanda Hicks became the first Donovan Scholar to receive a degree. In 1975, Alfred D.G. Arthurs became the first to earn a Ph.D. The program gained national attention in 1966 in a TIME magazine article, resulting in inquiries from across the nation and abroad. In 1976, the Kentucky General Assembly expanded UKs program by mandating that residents of the commonwealth, aged 65 or older, receive a tuition waiver for academic classes at all state-supported institutions of higher learning. Advertisement Advertisement Source: University of Kentucky, History of Donovan Scholarship You know what? Im 66 right now. I could go to college tuition free, but I dont think its fair for me to do that to the taxpayers on their dime. If I want to do it, I can pay for it, Tipton said. Goldman, the U of L student, doubts the waiver poses a hardship on taxpayers or the institutions. If a lot of people were taking advantage of it, it might be a burden on the schools, but I dont think thats the case, Goldman told the Lantern. Seniors can take courses for free only if theres room in the class. Universities are not required to add classes to accommodate them. Advertisement Advertisement The Donovan Scholars club at UofL has maybe 100 members, Goldman said. At the University of Kentucky, 160 Donovan Scholars are enrolled this semester, down from 185 in fall 2025 out of a total enrollment of more than 38,000. UK and UL last week told the Lantern they are still analyzing the bills impact. Survivor waivers would become last-dollar scholarships Elders are far from the only group the legislature has given tuition waivers through the years. Among the eligible are children and spouses of disabled military veterans and law enforcement officers and firefighters who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty. Tiptons HB 497 requires those groups to tap available state and federal financial aid and converts their waivers to last-dollar scholarships that would cover tuition and fees not paid for by other sources. Advertisement Advertisement The student shall complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine the level of need and eligibility for state and federal financial aid programs, the bill says. Tipton said the universities asked him to make the changes in tuition waivers for survivors and that they would save the institutions $30 million a year. He said no universities asked him to end the waiver for students 65 and older but theyve seen the bill, and nobody has complained to me about it. He said that by the time the bill goes to committee he will have an estimate on possible savings from ending the waiver for people over 65. Tipton last year successfully sponsored a bill that academics warned would erode tenure protections for professors. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed the measure, saying it would limit Kentuckys ability to hire the best people and threatens academic freedom. The Republican legislature overrode the veto. Amazing opportunity for everyone Carrie Mott, the faculty advisor to the UofL Donovan Scholars club, said the loss of the waiver would hurt more than just older students who could no longer afford to be students. Advertisement Advertisement Were not talking about a huge number of people at any of our universities who are taking advantage of this. But for the ones who are, its extremely important, and they have a 100% positive impact on the campus and on younger students. Its really a benefit for all of us. She said the older students mentor younger students and take an active part in campus culture. Having senior citizen students in the classroom with 18- to 22-year-olds is an amazing opportunity for everyone. Younger students benefit from that. Ive got a woman in one of my classes now whos in her 70s, and she sits with kids who are about 20 and shares her life experience and knowledge as it relates to the stuff were talking about. Shes been amazing. Ive seen that happen many times in my time at U of L, said Mott, an associate professor in geography and environmental sciences. She predicts that losing the waiver would force many of the older students out of higher education since many are living on fixed incomes and modest retirements. As for Tiptons assertion that people over 65 wont be contributing to the economy, Mott said, I guess in response to that Id say theyve contributed to the economy their entire adult lives. French police have arrested six people after a magistrate was kidnapped and held for several hours in a case authorities say involved a crypto ransom demand. The arrests followed the discovery of the 35-year-old magistrate and her 67-year-old mother on Friday morning, when they were found injured in a garage in the southeastern Drome region, according to a report from Agence France-Presse syndicated on local media. Prosecutors said the magistrates partner, who was not home when the abduction took place overnight from Wednesday to Thursday last week, was targeted after the kidnappers sent her a message and a photo of the two women demanding a crypto ransom. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities then launched a large-scale search involving 160 officers, according to prosecutor Thierry Dran, who described her as an associate in a startup with cryptocurrency activities at a press conference on Friday. The latest case in France is quite typical patterns in past wrench-type incidents involving kidnapping and extortion, though cases involving as many as five abductors are relatively rare, and suggest that such a pattern is developing into organized crime, a representative at blockchain security firm CertiK told Decrypt. The captors reportedly threatened to mutilate the victims if payment was not made quickly, though prosecutors did not disclose the amount demanded. Alerted by the noise, a neighbor intervened. He was able to open the door and thus allow our two victims to escape, a translation of the conference statement reads. Dran confirmed that no ransom was paid. Advertisement Advertisement Police have not disclosed the ages or identities of the adult suspects, citing the ongoing investigation and the involvement of a juvenile, with prosecutors saying formal charges are expected in the coming days as authorities determine each suspects role. $41M in Losses as Crypto Wrench Attacks Hit Record High in 2025 Rising 'wrench attacks' The case is reminiscent of earlier high-profile kidnappings in France, including the abduction of Ledger co-founder David Balland, who was kidnapped at his home and held for ransom in crypto. Attackers severed one of the victims fingers and sent a video to a business partner to pressure payment, before police later arrested several suspects and rescued the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Incidents identified as so-called wrench attacks have resulted in more than $41 million in losses last year, with incidents up 75% year on year, and France emerging as a hotspot. UK Teens Jailed After $4.3M Wrench Attack Robbery Caught on Police Video The French magistrates case this week consistent with the rising trend of wrench attacks, Angela Ang, head of policy and strategic partnerships for Asia Pacific at TRM Labs, told Decrypt, adding that 2025 was a record year for such attacks with roughly 60 reported physical assaults on crypto holders. The rising use of crypto in kidnapping and extortion is reflective of the mainstream adoption of crypto and the perceived irreversibility and pseudonymity of crypto transactions, she said. Criminals are increasingly using social media to build detailed assessments of potential targets particularly focusing on indicators of wealth, she said. Mitigating the risk of wrench attacks requires discretion, security, and awareness on-chain, online, and offline. Advertisement Advertisement When asked whether crypto still makes kidnappings or extortion easier for criminals, CertiK said the risk is not unique to crypto. The firm said the underlying threat, personal safety leading to financial loss, also applies to other incidents such as online banking, adding that cryptos visibility may have helped normalize digital assets more broadly and, in turn, made such risks more prominent The Brief Jon Hallford, the former owner of a funeral home in Colorado, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for stashing decomposing bodies and giving families fake ashes. Family members called Hallford a "monster" and said they have recurring nightmares about their loved ones. During the years he and his wife were stashing bodies, the Hallfords spent lavishly, all while missing tax payments, getting evicted from one of their properties and being sued for unpaid bills. A Colorado funeral home owner who stored nearly 200 decomposing bodies in a building for years and gave families fake ashes was sentenced to 40 years in state prison. Advertisement Advertisement The judge told Jon Hallford he caused "unspeakable and incomprehensible" harm after family members recounted recurring nightmares since his arrest in 2023. Who is Jon Hallford? The backstory Hallford and his former wife, Carie Hallford, owned the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Colorado Springs. From 2019 until 2023, the Hallfords stored 189 bodies in a building in the small town of Penrose. Investigators discovered the rotting bodies after reports of a foul odor coming from the building. They believe the Hallfords gave families dry concrete that resembled ashes. The remains were found at this building in Penrose, west of Colorado Springs, after authorities responded to a report of an "abhorrent smell." (Credit: KDVR) During the years they were stashing bodies, the Hallfords spent lavishly, all while missing tax payments, getting evicted from one of their properties and being sued for unpaid bills, according to court documents. That included purchasing a GMC Yukon and an Infiniti worth over $120,000 combined, along with $31,000 in cryptocurrency, pricey goods from stores like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. and laser body sculpting. Advertisement Advertisement Carrie Hallford has also been charged and is due to be sentenced April 24. Both pleaded guilty in December to nearly 200 counts of corpse abuse under an agreement with prosecutors. The Hallfords also pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges after prosecutors said they cheated the government out of nearly $900,000 in pandemic-era small business aid. Victims call Hallford a monster What they're saying "It is my personal belief that every one of us, every human being, is basically good at the core, but we live in a world that tests that belief every day, and Mr. Hallford your crimes are testing that belief," Judge Eric Bentley said during the sentencing hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Family members, meanwhile, told the judge they dream about their loved ones with decomposing flesh and maggots. They called Hallford a "monster" and urged the judge to give him the maximum sentence of 50 years. READ MORE: Colorado mom accused of killing 2 children and fleeing to UK returns stateside to face murder charges Kelly Mackeen, whose mothers remains were handled by Return to Nature, was among the victims who spoke. "Im a daughter whose mother was treated like yesterdays trash and dumped in a site left to rot with hundreds of others," Mackeen said. "Im heartbroken, and I ask God every day for grace." Hallford responds The other side Before his sentencing, Hallford apologized to the victims and said he would regret his actions for the rest of his life. Advertisement Advertisement "I had so many chances to put a stop to everything and walk away, but I did not," he said. "My mistakes will echo for a generation. Everything I did was wrong." The Source This article includes information from The Associated Press and previous FOX Local reporting. Germany has expressed "great concern" following the sentencing of Hong Kong media mogul and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai, who was handed 20 years in prison on Monday. A German government spokesman noted that Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to make his inaugural visit to China in the near future, though he did not specify whether Merz plans to address the case directly. Lai, 78, was found guilty in December of conspiracy to collaborate with foreign forces and of publishing seditious publications, offences that carried a possible life term. He has consistently denied the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Human rights groups have repeatedly criticized the trial. Lai, who also holds a British passport and who founded the pro-democracy Hong Kong newspaper Apple Daily, has been in prison since 2021, having previously been sentenced to two prison terms. Apple Daily was forcibly shut down in 2021 after authorities investigated alleged violations of a controversial national security law imposed by Beijing in Hong Kong in 2020. "We call on the Hong Kong authorities to respect rights and freedoms," a spokesman for German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said, noting the fragile health of the elderly publisher. Jimmy Lai's wife Teresa Lai and Cardinal Joseph Zen arrive at the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts where the sentencing of media tycoon Jimmy Lai is taking place. Vernon Yuen/Nexpher via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa KABUL, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Afghan border forces have arrested 1,755 individuals in the past week in the western Herat province for attempting to cross illegally into neighboring Iran, according to a Monday statement from the army's western region command. The statement said the arrests were made during coordinated operations by intelligence and border units. After verification, the detainees were returned to their home areas. In similar operations in mid-December, Afghan border forces reported arresting 398 people in Herat province for attempting to cross into the neighboring country. Illegal border crossings remain a persistent challenge for Afghan authorities, as many Afghans try daily to leave for Iran and other countries, seeking to escape poverty and unemployment in the war-torn nation. Germany has indicted a Ukrainian national in connection with an alleged Russia-orchestrated plot to mail explosive parcels across Europe, Reuters reported on Feb. 9, citing German prosecutors. The suspect, identified as Yevhen B., was detained in Switzerland in May 2025 and extradited to Germany in December. He and two other Ukrainians, Vladyslav T. and Daniil B., are suspected of sending parcels containing GPS trackers from Cologne in Germany to Ukraine in March 2025 to map logistics routes for future sabotage attacks on behalf of Russian intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement The routes would then be used to dispatch incendiary devices, which would ignite in Germany or somewhere along the way in Ukraine, German prosecutors said, according to Reuters. The news comes amid Western warnings about Moscow's escalating hybrid warfare targeting European countries, aimed at sowing chaos and disrupting support for Ukraine. Authorities say Russian intelligence services often recruit Ukrainian nationals for sabotage operations, offering quick cash in return. In January, Poland charged four Ukrainians and a Russian citizen for allegedly planning to send incendiary devices and explosives to various Western countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Lithuania. Advertisement Advertisement Russia is believed to be responsible for a fire that broke out in July 2024 in an airport hub run by the DHL courier in Leipzig, Germany. A flammable package was reportedly sent by plane from Lithuania and marked for delivery to a fake address in Birmingham, U.K. Read also: Ukraine to open 10 weapons export centers in Europe in 2026 in major wartime policy shift Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche has drafted legislation to reform the expansion of electricity grids and renewable energies, following up on a change of course announced last year. The expansion of facilities is to be better synchronized with grid expansion, while costs are to be reduced, according to a draft bill made available to dpa. Reiche, who took office in May last year, has spoken out in favour of focusing energy policy on costs and supply security in light of Germany's stuttering economy. Advertisement Advertisement Her predecessor Robert Habeck, serving in the post under the previous centre-left administration, heavily promoted the expansion of renewables, primarily from wind and solar power. In September, Reiche announced she would implement "key measures" to better manage the transition to net zero and make it more affordable. Germany has committed to climate neutrality by 2045. But in order for the country to stay on course, efforts need to centre on reliability, supply security, affordability and cost-effectiveness, Reiche said at the time. Despite significant progress in the pace of expansion of electricity distribution networks, grid expansion continues to face "systemic" challenges and obstacles, according to the draft bill. Advertisement Advertisement Grid expansion cannot keep pace with the expansion of installations, it said. As more and more energy produced from renewable sources is fed into the grid, wind and solar installations are sometimes curtailed to avoid overload, meaning that their output is throttled or switched off - a process known as redispatch. Operators are entitled to compensation, which costs billions every year. In a reform of current rules, the ministry plans to exempt new connections to certain parts of the grid known to be particularly strained from compensation in the event of a redispatch. House Speaker Don Scott, D-Portsmouth, and Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, outline their redistricting proposal, which they said is necessary due to Republican gerrymandering in other states, at the state Capitol Feb. 5, 2026. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury) Last year, President Donald Trump started a new redistricting war when he pressured Republicans in Texas to redraw their states congressional district map to help the party win five additional seats. In response, Democrats in California advanced a congressional map that stacks the deck in favor of Democrats, while several other states (both red and blue) have followed suit. The latest battle of this redistricting war is now playing out in Virginia, where Democrats have advanced a measure that would temporarily undo the anti-gerrymandering reforms approved by voters in 2020 and replace the unbiased map with an extreme Democratic gerrymander. Although the measure is currently held up in court, the new maps are expected to give Democrats a 10-1 advantage. As an expert on redistricting who has co-authored two academic books on gerrymandering, I see this as a colossal mistake for Democrats that could backfire in unexpected ways. Advertisement Advertisement In the popular discourse, the issue of Democratic gerrymandering has been framed as an issue of fairness. It is true that gerrymandering is profoundly unfair to voters from the minority party and gives politicians in the majority party the power to carve up our communities to suit their personal and political agendas (this is happening right now in Richmond). It is also true that Republicans are largely responsible for violating the Democratic norms that prevented aggressive gerrymandering in the past. Since the Republicans aggressively gerrymandered after 2010, and the conservative Supreme Court refused to intervene, the rules have changed. However, this misses a larger point: Extreme gerrymandering in Virginia puts Democrats in grave danger. Advertisement Advertisement In order to give Democrats a 10-1 advantage, mapmakers must pack Republicans into one safe districts and crack Republican support across the remaining districts to create Democratic majorities. Yet because Democratic voters tend to live near urban areas for example, along the I-95 corridor in Northern and Central Virginia, and in the Hampton Roads region this is only possible by drawing irregularly shaped districts that unite urban Democratic voters with mixed suburban and red-leaning rural areas. How these communities will vote in future elections and in what numbers is very difficult to predict and is far from certain. Under a Blue Wave (e.g. in 2026), Democrats would very likely do well under this type of gerrymander. However, once the pendulum swings toward the Republicans (and it always does, eventually), Democrats can expect these Democratic districts to fall like dominos. What was intended as a pro-Democratic gerrymander could wind up helping Republicans win a lopsided majority and give them control of the U.S. House (for example, in 2028 or 2030). Perhaps even worse for the party, replacing the current map with a gerrymandered map would disrupt years of progress that Democratic challengers have made in districts currently held by Republican incumbents. Advertisement Advertisement For example, Gov. Abigail Spanbergers performance in District 1 in the gubernatorial race last year suggests that Republican incumbent Rob Wittman is extremely vulnerable. Several viable Democratic candidates, such as Salaam Bhatti and Shannon Taylor, have already begun primary campaigns. Or consider Democrat Eugene Vindman, who impressively won in District 7 in 2024, which leans Republican. New maps would undo all of this work, disrupt the community building efforts, and further expose Democrats in subsequent election cycles. For these very same reasons, Republican gerrymandering poses extraordinary opportunities for Democrats to make inroads this fall without resorting to the undemocratic tactics that Republicans have relied on to stay in power. There is a reason that Texas Republicans were not anxious to adopt Trumps map. Their 2021 gerrymander achieved a delicate balance between maximum partisan advantage and protecting GOP incumbents. The 2025 gerrymander assumes that the GOP will net five additional seats, but this assumption rests on data from the 2024 election, when Trump over-performed with Latinos. Under a Blue Wave, the new map could spell disaster for the GOP. In short, Democrats are asking voters to protect democracy by abandoning Americas most sacred of democratic principles: that voters get to choose their politicians, and that elections mean something. This is wrong because it is unfair, but it is also strategically foolish and short-sighted. In Virginia, it could wind up helping Republicans stay in power and embolden Trump in his efforts to nationalize voting and promote authoritarianism. Washington Ghislaine Maxwell, a longtime associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and refused to answer questions during a virtual appearance before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Monday. Her lawyer said she would be willing to cooperate with the panel's probe if President Trump grants her clemency, and would testify that the president is "innocent of any wrongdoing." "As expected, Ghislaine Maxwell took the Fifth and refused to answer any questions. This obviously is very disappointing," chairman James Comer told reporters after the deposition. "We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions bout potential co-conspirators. We sincerely want to get to the truth for the American people and justice for survivors." Advertisement Advertisement Comer said the committee has five more depositions scheduled as part of its investigation into Epstein. Among those set to testify are three members of Epstein's inner circle: Les Wexner, who was one of his clients and a longtime benefactor; Richard Kahn, his accountant; and Darren Indyke, his lawyer, Comer said. David Markus, Maxwell's attorney, read a statement to the Oversight panel. He said his client had to remain silent because of a pending legal petition filed with the federal court in New York. But he said the committee could hear from Maxwell if she received clemency. "If this committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path. Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump," Markus said. "Only she can provide the complete account. Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example, both President Trump and President Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms. Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation." Maxwell was asked several questions during the deposition, but repeatedly said "I invoke my Fifth Amendment right to silence." Video of the questioning was posted by the Oversight Committee on Monday evening. Advertisement Advertisement "I would like to answer your question, but on the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer this question and any related questions," she said, in response to the first question about whether she was a close friend and confidant of Epstein. Rep. Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, suggested Maxwell was trying to protect others by refusing to answer questions and said she was given "special treatment" by the Trump administration. Maxwell was transferred from a low-security correctional institute in Florida to a minimum security prison camp in Texas after meeting with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche last summer. "After months of defying our subpoena, Ghislaine Maxwell finally appeared before the Oversight Committee and said nothing. She answered no questions and provided no information about the men who raped and trafficked women and girls," Garcia said in a statement. Rep. Andy Biggs, a Republican from Arizona, told reporters following the deposition that Maxwell's lawyer said she has no indication that either Mr. Trump or former President Bill Clinton are culpable for any wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement But Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, a Democrat from Virginia, said Maxwell's offer to speak on the record to absolve Mr. Trump and Clinton are part of an effort to drum up support from both parties for clemency. "This is all strategy for her to try to get a pardon from President Trump, and she's never shown any remorse for the victims in this entire case," he told reporters, adding that Maxwell was "unrepentant" and "robotic" in her appearance before lawmakers. Maxwell was convicted of federal sex-trafficking charges in 2021 for her role in a scheme to sexually exploit and abuse minor girls with Epstein. She is serving a 20-year prison sentence. The Oversight Committee subpoenaed Maxwell for testimony in July 2025. Soon after, Markus told Comer in a letter that she would be willing to answer questions from the committee if they granted her immunity or if she received clemency from Mr. Trump. Without those assurances, Markus said Maxwell would have to invoke her Fifth Amendment rights. Advertisement Advertisement The lack of answers from Maxwell stands in contrast to the interview that she participated in with Blanche last July. The interview spanned two days, and Maxwell answered questions about her relationship with Epstein and others in his orbit, according to a transcript released by the Justice Department. She was moved to the prison camp in Bryan, Texas, shortly after the meeting with Blanche, and no reason was given for Maxwell's transfer. Prosecutors put Maxwell at the center of Epstein's sex-trafficking ring and said that for roughly a decade, she helped him recruit, groom and abuse victims who were under the age of 18. She shows up extensively in records released by the Justice Department in recent months under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The law, passed by Congress and signed by Mr. Trump in November, required the Justice Department to make public all of its material related to its investigations into Epstein and Maxwell. As part of its own probe of Epstein's case, the Oversight Committee has demanded documents from the Justice Department and Epstein's estate. It also issued subpoenas to a slew of former attorneys general and FBI directors, as well as Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While the Clintons initially rebuffed the demands for their testimony, calling the subpoenas "invalid and legally unenforceable," they agreed to appear for depositions later this month after facing a contempt of Congress vote. Advertisement Advertisement Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn crashes seconds into race Shock over Lindsey Vonn's Olympic crash; Trump calls Hunter Hess a loser for comments on politics More details emerge on whistleblower complaint against Tulsi Gabbard Ghislaine Maxwell held a press card from Germany despite never having worked there as a journalist, the Epstein files have revealed. New pictures show that Maxwell, 64, held an international press card that identified her as a member of the German Journalists Union [DJU]. A photocopy of the press card was found by German magazine Der Spiegel during a search of the latest tranche of Epstein files that the United States government released. Advertisement Advertisement An inscription on the card states dju in ver.di, Germany, referring to the German Journalists Union and its parent union Verdi. It also features the logo of the International Federation of Journalists, which issued the card. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex-trafficking in the US, having been convicted of procuring young women and girls for Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell was convicted of procuring women and girls for Jeffrey Epstein - AFP It is unclear why the card, which expired in 2017 and would have given Maxwell access to German government buildings and official press events, was given to her. According to Der Spiegel, the DJU exclusively issues the international press cards to its members in Germany. Maxwell would therefore need to have been a member of the DJU, and would need to have shown proof of full-time employment as a journalist, to obtain the card. Advertisement Advertisement But there is no evidence that Maxwell ever worked as a journalist in Germany or abroad, Der Spiegel noted, fuelling speculation as to why she received the card. Maxwell, the daughter of the late media mogul Robert Maxwell, was better known as a British socialite before the Epstein scandal. Robert Maxwell, who owned the Mirror Group Newspaper, the publisher of the Daily Mirror, famously named his yacht Lady Ghislaine after his daughter. In 1991 he fell from the same yacht and drowned, with an inquest later finding that his death was an accident caused in part by a heart attack. Afterwards, she entered Epsteins orbit. Maxwell is the daughter of late media mogul Robert Maxwell - News UK/REX The Telegraph approached the International Federation of Journalists and Verdi for comment but did not receive an immediate response. Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to German media, Verdi said it was unable to explain why Maxwell was granted the card, citing Germanys data protection rules. In accordance with our data protection policy, application documents [for press cards] are ... regularly destroyed after the year of application. Therefore, it can be assumed that no data or evidence corresponding to the validity of the IPC [international press card] is available on site either, the statement said. Verdi also said it kept no data on transactions with members that occurred more than 10 years ago, and that the card was probably issued in 2015 or 2016, based on its expiry date. The disclosure follows mounting speculation that Epstein himself may have had links to a foreign intelligence agency, such as Israels Mossad or the Russian FSB. Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell is to appear before the US Congress investigation into Epstein on Monday, but it is expected that she will invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Ian Maxwell, her brother, has said that recent releases from the Epstein files means she is at risk of being accused of perjury if she gives evidence to the congressional committee. She has no idea... what new questions might arise from these voluminous releases so she will not dare to say anything in response to any questions for fear of being subsequently accused of perjury, he said, noting Maxwell has not had access to a computer since 2020. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. WASHINGTON Jeffery Epsteins former accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell sat for a video deposition with members of Congress on Monday but refused to talk. Appearing from the prison camp where shes serving a 20-year sentence, Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate herself and indicated she would only speak if President Donald Trump lets her out of prison. Politics: Howard Lutnick Details Time With Jeffrey Epstein, GOP Rep. Attacks Bad Bunny: Live Updates Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump, Maxwells attorney, David Markus, said in an opening statement he posted on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Democrats expressed outrage that Maxwell appeared to be advertising favorable testimony in exchange for a pardon or commutation of her prison sentence. Trump has suggested hes open to the idea. She is campaigning over and over again to get that pardon from President Trump, and this president has not ruled it out, and so that is why shes continuing to not cooperate with our investigation, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.) told reporters. The reality is that she is a monster. She should be behind bars. Maxwell was sentenced to 240 months in prison in 2022 for helping Epstein recruit, groom and eventually abuse girls as young as 14. When she was first charged in 2020, a year after Epstein died in prison while facing *** trafficking charges, Trump, a former friend of Epsteins, said he wished her well. Politics: Epstein Island Visitor Howard Lutnick Still Has His Job In Trump's Cabinet Last year, the Bureau of Prisons transferred Maxwell to a minimum-security prison camp, contrary to protocols for a *** offender, after she sat for a transcribed interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. In that interview, Maxwell said she never witnessed inappropriate behavior by Trump or by former President Bill Clinton, who also socialized with Epstein and traveled on his private jet. Advertisement Advertisement Bill and Hillary Clinton will sit for depositions with the House Oversight Committee later this month. The committees chair, Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), said he was disappointed that Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment right not to speak as a witness against herself. We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential co-conspirators, Comer said. Through her attorney, Maxwell again volunteered that Trump and Clinton did nothing wrong. Politics: Former Trump Attorney General Calls It 'Unusual' How DOJ Talked To Ghislaine Maxwell Only she can provide the complete account. Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters, Markus said. For example, both President Trump and President Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms. Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation. Related... Read the original on HuffPost WASHINGTON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell refused to answer questions at a deposition before the U.S. House's Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on Monday, according to lawmakers, drawing criticism from both Republican and Democratic members of the committee. Maxwell, who was found guilty in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein sexually abuse teenage girls and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence, invoked her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and declined to answer questions, lawmakers said after the deposition. "This is obviously very disappointing. We had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential co-conspirators," the committee's chairman, Republican Representative James Comer, told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement CLEMENCY Democrats on the committee accused Maxwell of using the deposition to campaign for clemency from U.S. President Donald Trump and called on the Republican president to rule out such a move. "What we did not get were any substantive answers to the questions that were asked that would advance our investigation," said Representative James Walkinshaw, a Virginia Democrat. "What we did get was another episode in her long-running campaign for clemency from President Trump. And President Trump could end that today - he could rule out clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell, the monster." Advertisement Advertisement David Markus, a lawyer for Maxwell, said he advised her to invoke the Fifth Amendment as she has a pending habeas petition "that demonstrates that her conviction rests on a fundamentally unfair trial." "If this Committee and the American public truly want to hear the unfiltered truth about what happened, there is a straightforward path. Ms. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump," Markus said in a statement to the Committee posted on X on Monday. The deposition came as the U.S. Department of Justice has released millions of internal documents related to Epstein. Documents released include photos of Trump with several women whose faces are redacted and a suggestive note to Epstein, framed by the outline of a naked woman, which appears to bear Trump's signature. Advertisement Advertisement Trump has denied any knowledge of Epstein's crimes and says he broke off ties in the early 2000s, before Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to a Florida state prostitution charge. He says the suggestive note was faked. Comer said that five more depositions were scheduled in the Epstein investigation, including on February 26 with former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and on February 27 with former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Markus said in the post on X that Trump and Bill Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing, adding that Maxwell can explain why. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis in Washington; Editing by Michelle Nichols and Matthew Lewis) Ghislaine Maxwell invoked the Fifth Amendment to avoid testifying to a congressional committee Monday but offered to talk if President Donald Trump grants her clemency for her role in Jeffrey Epsteins infamous sex trafficking ring. Epsteins convicted sidekick refused to answer any questions in a virtual appearance before the House Oversight Committee on the advice of her lawyer, who told the panel she would only talk if Trump pardons her or commutes her sentence for sex trafficking girls and young women. Maxwell is prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump, said David Oscar Markus, the lawyer. Only she can provide the complete account. Advertisement Advertisement The demand for clemency is the clearest cut public offer by Maxwell to trade what she knows about Epsteins crimes for her freedom. Markus added that Maxwell believes neither Trump nor former President Bill Clinton, who is expected to testify later in the month, committed any crimes related to their friendships with Epstein. Republicans and Democrats alike slammed Maxwell for stonewalling the panel. But Democrats suggested that Trump is also to blame for her refusal to talk because he has repeatedly refused to rule out giving her clemency. She is campaigning over and over again to get that pardon from President Trump, and this president has not ruled it out, said Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, D-Va. And so that is why she is continuing to not cooperate. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the committee chair, called it unfortunate that Maxwell took the Fifth and said he didnt think she should be granted a pardon. Trump, who was once friends with both Epstein and Maxwell in Palm Beach social circles, has repeatedly refused to say if he might pardon Maxwell, claiming that he hasnt given the issue any thought. After Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison, Trump said he would wish her well. Trump has also asserted that he did not have any role in granting Maxwell a highly unusual transfer from a harsh federal prison to a cushy prison camp in Texas. Maxwell was moved to the camp, where she reportedly receives special treatment and favors from prison officials, shortly after she sat for two days of questioning from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell reportedly told Blanche that she never saw Trump do anything improper or illegal around Epstein. Critics note that Maxwell has lied repeatedly about her role in Epsteins sex ring and would have a huge incentive to curry favor with Trump. Along with the Trump clemency push, Maxwell is appealing her conviction. She hopes to get a New York federal judge to consider supposed new evidence. _____ Democratic frontrunner for Texas governor Gina Hinojosa is once again taking aim at higher bills for Texas families. In a news release on Sunday, Feb. 8, she again noted that the only Texans who benefit from Republican incumbent Greg Abbott's economic plans are the wealthy and connected. "Texans are working more and more and getting less and less. Its clear in every aspect of life. Working hard used to mean you could build a life in Texas. You could pay the bills, save a little, and eventually buy a home. But after almost 12 years under Greg Abbott, that promise is slipping away," she said. Advertisement Advertisement In what she called "the Abbott Corruption Tax," Hinojosa noted that more than half of Texans are renters over 4.1 million who now spend more than 30% of their income on rent. The spike in housing and utility bills was not a coincidence, she underscored, as home prices became too high for many first-time buyers. "As governor, I will fight to lower housing costs, expand the supply of homes Texans can afford, and take on corporations who manipulate the market at the expense of working families," she said in the release. Hinojosa also picked up an endorsement Friday, Feb. 6 from the Austin American-Statesman calling her "the champion Democrats need." Advertisement Advertisement "At a moment when the state's economic success is increasingly divorced from the well-being of many Texans, Hinojosa offers a compelling alternative," the editorial board wrote. The Statesman highlighted Hinojosa's focus on issues that transcend partisan divisions: "Notably, these issues aren't left vs. right or urban vs. rural. They are priorities that would broadly benefit Texans." More on Texas' blue wave Gina Hinojosa calls for blue wave in Texas governor's race in El Paso Greg Abbott doubles down on legal oversight Republican incumbent Greg Abbott again bolstered his call for more oversight for district attorneys by asking Texas lawmakers to create a new statewide Chief State Prosecutor position. Advertisement Advertisement "For too long, weve watched rogue local DAs let dangerous criminals evade real consequences by enabling lenient bail and soft-on-crime policies," Abbott said in campaign donation email Friday, Feb. 6. "This new statewide prosecutor would serve as a critical backstop, ensuring repeat offenders are actually held accountable, supporting our police, and delivering the law and order." A petition for the public was added to force the issue with state legislatures. More on Abbott's labor backing Which labor group just endorsed Republican incumbent Greg Abbott? This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Texas governors race: What did Gina Hinojosa say Texas costs? Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont is helping people keep up with changing technology through a three-day training program. Organizers said the course helps people build digital skills needed to apply for jobs, create resumes and access new career opportunities, especially for those earning below a livable wage. Abigail Fulmer took part in the training offered through Goodwill Industries to catch up on tech. Advertisement Advertisement ALSO READ: Digital divide in Charlotte tackled with new Connected Learning Center Things had changed so much since I last did a traditional computer class, Fulmer said. The class she took ended with a surprise gift, a free Dell laptop. They invested in me in ways that I will reap the benefits for a long time, Fulmer said. The course is designed to help people keep up with changing technology. Carola Cardenas, the director of Career Service for Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, said those falling behind are often people in families who need the most help. They are under the livable wage and once they get that laptop, they are able to get into a better position, Cardenas said. Advertisement Advertisement The laptop gives them a chance to apply for jobs to increase opportunities. In order to apply for a job, you have to be able to know how to go online, said Jeanelle Washington, digital navigator with Center for Digital Equity. You have to be able to fill out online applications. You have to know how to sometimes upload your resume. Many people believe that having a phone means they have a computer in their hands. Program trainers said that is not always the case, especially in employment. I dont know if you have ever tried to create a resume on a phone. You might be able to do it, but its pretty difficult, Washington said. Advertisement Advertisement The help doesnt end after the three-day training program and the free laptop presentation. Theres thousands of modules available through this program that the center for digital equity provides, Cardenas said. Fulmer said she can always talk to a trainer, including her personal tech team. Im always going to be able to get my answers to whatever questions I may have, Fulmer said. The Center for Digital Equity still has more than 900 free computers to give away through its partnership with Goodwill Industries. Click here to register for classes. VIDEO: Internet company with mission to close digital divide opens South End HQ PYONGYANG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), visited the Ministry of National Defence on Sunday on the occasion of the 78th founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Monday. In his speech, Kim extended congratulations and greetings to all officers and soldiers, and encouragement to overseas special operations units, the KCNA report said. As indicated by the Ninth Congress of the Party, the coming five years will be a period in which "the army's outstanding role will become further enhanced," Kim said. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) made an abrupt pivot when asked Sunday whether President Donald Trump should apologize for the racist post that appeared on his social media account targeting former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama. The video, posted late Thursday night, depicted the Obamas with their heads superimposed on the bodies of apes. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle called out the racist trope for what it was, before the White House finally took it down some 12 hours later. Trump blamed a White House staffer for posting the offensive content. Gonzales told Margaret Brennan with CBS Newss Face The Nation that it was up to the president to decide how to handle the fallout after she asked Do you think he needs to apologize? Advertisement Advertisement Gonzales added, Theres no room in this country for racism, anti semitism, socialism all the isms need to go. And you think it was that? Brennan asked. I think it was very upsetting to a lot of people, Gonzales managed before pivoting.The part no ones talking about in that video, is about election integrity. And so the bulk of it was on election integrity, which is a very important topic. What I suspect is going to happen is the White House is going to, in the coming days, issue a memo on their their policy for this upcoming election, and I suspect the Director of National Intelligence is going to be at the center part of building that out and making sure our mid-term elections are safe and secure. Brennan tried to redirect the interview back to the video. Advertisement Advertisement Yeah, and I know the president claimed the video was credible. Also claimed he had watched it but then not seen that part of it with the race It was at the very end, it was at the very end for one second, it was really weird Gonzales interjected. Brennan pressed on, saying, The president of the United States and his staff wouldnt you expect that they actually look at what they do before they do it? The president of the United States should not be worrying about all the people that are upset with him, Gonzales declared. If hes doing that, hes not keeping is safe. He added, I did appreciate them taking it down. I did appreciate him saying Hey, look, you know that should not have been on there.' Watch the clip above via CBS Newss Face The Nation. The post GOP Congressman Abruptly Pivots When Asked if Trump Should Apologize For Racist Post first appeared on Mediaite. Ahead of a vote on a GOP-backed voting requirement bill in the House, Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.) said Sunday that those without IDs must be able to get one for free to vote. If theres an individual [who] doesnt have an ID, there 100 percent needs to be a mechanism for that person to get an ID without a charge, Steil told host Chris Stirewalt on NewsNations The Hill Sunday. We want to make sure that more people are voting, not less, he added. And I think instilling this confidence [in elections] will actually result in more people coming to the polls. Advertisement Advertisement Steil noted that the Wisconsin state Legislature implemented such a policy when it passed legislation requiring photo IDs to vote in 2011. Under that law, residents can obtain an ID from the states Department of Transportation for free to vote. The House is set to vote this upcoming week on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which proposes requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote and valid identification to cast a ballot. The act says that proof of citizenship can be a valid passport, birth certificate or hospital record; a photo ID issued by a federal, state or tribal authority; or a military ID card together with a military record of service. More than 80 percent of Americans, including 71 percent of Democrats, support requiring all individuals to show government-issued photo ID to vote, according to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center last year. Advertisement Advertisement Our legislation is built on commonsense principles that the American people support, Steil added. The SAVE Act, sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), passed the House last year with unanimous support from Republicans and four moderate Democrats: Reps. Ed Case (Hawaii), Henry Cuellar (Texas), Jared Golden (Maine), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (Wash.). The House will vote on the legislation in an effort to send it over to the Senate. Roy and Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) proposed that Republicans in the upper chamber use a standing filibuster to force Democrats to vote on the legislation. But while Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said last week that his caucus would have a conversation on using that strategy, he did not commit to using it. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican senators led by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) are coming to senior White House aide Stephen Millers defense after some of their GOP colleagues called for a White House shake-up. GOP senators rattled over their partys prospects in the midterms and unhappy with Millers public comments on Greenland and immigration enforcement view the deputy White House chief of staff as a growing political liability for both President Trump and the GOP. But he commands strong loyalty from a number of Republican senators on Capitol Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Graham, who also came to Millers defense last month, told The Hill on Sunday that Miller is going to be proven right that we should be more aggressive on immigration policy. And he argued that Millers and Trumps tough talk about Greenland has put the United States in position to substantially strengthen its Arctic defenses. People can disagree with Stephen on rhetoric and they can disagree with him on policy but the question is, Is Stephen Miller in jeopardy in Trump World? Absolutely not, Graham said. To my Republican colleagues who wring their hands all the time about what somebody says in Trump World: We have an opportunity here to go on the offense. Sanctuary cities are about as popular as a toothache, he argued. I would hope that Republicans focus on the problems not with Stephen Miller, Kristi Noem, me or Trump. Its with four years of Biden policy. It doesnt matter what a senator thinks about a presidents adviser, as long as the president has confidence in that adviser. I have confidence in Stephen Miller that hes going to help us go on offense, Graham added. Were going to have a vote next week on the Senate floor on sanctuary cities and Stephen Miller helped orchestrate that with me. Advertisement Advertisement More than a dozen Republican senators submitted on-the-record comments to The Hill on Sunday praising Miller and pushing back against public and anonymous criticisms from Senate GOP colleagues who want to diminish Millers clout at the White House. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), who represents a critical swing state, for example, said Miller has been instrumental in delivering on the promises President Trump and I made during the campaign. Because of him and other members of the Presidents team, critical priorities like stopping deadly fentanyl, unleashing Americas energy, and bringing much-needed economic relief for working families are now a reality for Pennsylvania, he said. Eleven other Republican senators offered praise of Miller as key member of Trumps team. Advertisement Advertisement Ive worked with Stephen Miller for more than a decade to secure our borders, lock away criminals, and keep America safe. I highly value his counsel, as I know President Trump does as well, said Senate Republican Conference Chair Tom Cotton (Ark.). Millers influence over Trumps immigration enforcement policy has come under increasing scrutiny within the Senate GOP conference as senators face a shutdown of the Homeland Security Department on Friday. Democrats are threatening to block even a short-term continuation of Homeland Security funding unless Trump agrees to a list of reforms to rein in ICE and stop the violence. Millers role in Trumps muscular approach to foreign policy, particularly threats to use military force against Greenland, also is under a magnifying glass as about 20 senators Democrats and Republicans are scheduled to travel to the Munich Security Conference later this week to meet with NATO allies. Advertisement Advertisement Those congressional delegation trips may get canceled because of the looming Homeland Security shutdown, which Democrats are threatening to trigger in protest of the administrations deportation raids. A group of Republican senators are becoming fed up with Millers clout at the White House and want Trump to bring in advisers with different perspectives into his inner circle. I think the truth be told he would not win a majority of a popularity contest in our conference, said Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), summarizing the view of Miller among Republican senators. Number one, he has a condescending demeanor to begin with. He doesnt take advice. He sort of dictates. He provides doctrine. And you know these are U.S. senators with an election certificate. He should show them some respect, Tillis added of Miller. Advertisement Advertisement Several other GOP senators who spoke on condition of anonymity said they believe Miller has too much power over Trumps agenda and that his advice on foreign policy and immigration issues is leading the administration toward unpopular positions. A Republican senator who requested anonymity acknowledged that Tillis, who is not seeking reelection, has been the most outspoken in criticizing Miller. But this GOP senator said Tilliss views are shared broadly within the Senate GOP conference. The lawmaker said many Republican senators view Miller as the driving force behind aggressive apprehensions that are becoming national stories, such as the detention of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos, an asylum-seeker from Ecuador, who was picked up in Minnesota with his father and sent to a holding facility outside San Antonio. There are senators from deep-red states describing incidents about kids who are dropped off at school and then the parents are detained after the kids are dropped off, and the [school] principal has to be able to find someone to take the kids, the source said. Members say we want to be there for law enforcement, but this is not right. Advertisement Advertisement A New York Times/Siena College poll of 1,625 registered voters conducted Jan. 12-17 found that 61 percent of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tactics have gone too far and just 36 percent approved of how ICE was handling its job. A PBS News/NPR/Marist poll of 1,462 adults conducted Jan. 27-30 found that 65 percent of Americans think ICE tactics have gone too far. A second Republican senator who requested anonymity said colleagues from battleground states want Trump to balance Millers influence on immigration policy and other core elements of his agenda with advisers who have different views. I think there need to be other people advising the president because certainly for a number of our members that are going to be in tough elections [they want] different points of view advising the president so that he has a menu of options and selections in front of him, the senator said. Some are going to work better in certain states than others. Its not a broad stroke of the brush here. Advertisement Advertisement The senator added that Trumps policy menu has been limited for much of his second term so far, especially on immigration enforcement policy. But theres also a large group of Trump allies in the Senate Republican conference who support Millers no-holds-barred approach to immigration policy and are willing to give the administration broad latitude to pressure European allies over Greenland. Stephen has effectively pushed for policies that are making America safer, like in Memphis in my home state of Tennessee, more prosperous, and more respected around the world, said Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.). Graham, who has perhaps the closest relationship with Trump of anyone in the Senate GOP conference, told The Hill that Miller is in many ways the architect of the Make America Great Again movement. Advertisement Advertisement He predicts that Senate Republicans will unify this week behind Millers aggressive approach to sanctuary cities, despite the public backlash sparked by the fatal shootings of two protesters in Minneapolis last month by federal immigration officers. Any GOP colleague or observer of Washington that believes that Donald Trump doesnt have full faith in Stephen Miller should not be allowed to be driving in Washington. He is Karl Rove to MAGA, Graham said in an interview, referring to President George W. Bushs top political adviser. Rove was so influential during the earlier administration that he was called Bushs Brain. GOP Sens. Mike Lee (Utah), Steve Daines (Mont.), Roger Marshall (Kan.), Ted Cruz (Texas), Bernie Moreno (Ohio), James E. Risch (Idaho), Eric Schmitt (Mo.), Cynthia Lummis (Wyo.), Rick Scott (Fla.), and Ron Johnson (Wis.) also submitted statements Sunday praising Miller. Advertisement Advertisement GOP Sens. Jim Banks (Ind.), Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.) and Tommy Tuberville (Ala.) have also praised Miller on social media. @StephenM is a long time friend and trusted advisor. Grateful for his leadership and everything he does to help President Trump every day, Banks posted on the social platform X on Jan. 27. Miller, who served as a senior adviser to Trump during his first term, has seen his power and authority grow dramatically since then. Correspondingly, Trump has taken a much more aggressive approach toward immigration enforcement and foreign policy within the Western Hemisphere during his second term. And the senior advisers who cautioned the president during his first term to restrain himself on domestic and international affairs former White House chiefs of staff Reince Priebus and John Kelly, former Attorney General Bill Barr, former Secretaries of Defense Jim Mattis and Mark Esper, and former Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley are long gone. Esper and Miller, for example, clashed over what Esper called Millers absurd plan to send 250,000 active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. Miller clashed with other senior advisers including Barr and Milley over how to respond to the Black Lives Matter protests that were raging in cities around the country, according to a book by Wall Street Journal reporter Michael Bender. When Miller remarked the protests reminded him of a war zone, Milley turned around in his seat, pointed his finger at Miller and said, Shut the f up, Stephen, according to the book. But Trump appeared to side at the time with Miller and seemed more inclined to bring force to bear on the protests, despite caution and restraint urged by other senior aides. Milley has since fallen out of favor with Trump and had his security detail and clearance stripped by the Pentagon in January. During Trumps second term, Miller has expanded his influence over the presidents foreign policy agenda, proclaiming in CNN interview earlier this year that the United States has a right to take over Greenland. You can talk all you want about international niceties and everything else, but we live in a world, in the real world, Jake, that is governed by strength, that is governed by force, that is governed by power, he told CNN host Jake Tapper. A third Republican senator who requested anonymity said Miller should stay away from foreign policy, arguing that his swaggering talk about Greenland threatens important NATO alliances. The thing is the president is very fond of Stephen Miller and thats the main thing, the lawmaker said. I think there are some things I would rather the administration stay away from, the lawmaker added, referring to the White Houses aggressive push for Greenland. The senator added that talk of seizing Danish territory by military force if necessary and the images of masked ICE and Border Patrol personnel using excessive force on protesters in Minneapolis have fueled Democratic criticism that Trump is leading the country toward authoritarianism. But Graham, a prominent defense hawk on Capitol Hill, said that most GOP senators dont understand what the Trump administration is trying to accomplish by maneuvering for U.S. control of Greenland. People have no idea what theyre talking about on Greenland. Ive been on the ground floor of that. Stephen Miller and a lot of us were helping the president. The critics of Trump seem to have zero depth about whats really going on, he said. We wound up getting Greenland in a good spot. We have more control over Greenland than ever and were going to build up our Arctic defenses, Graham added. Its fashionable now, it seems to be, in Republican circles to worry about what Trump said or somebody said in Trump world. My advice would be, lets keep governing well, he said. Lets start prosecuting the case about how out-of-sync the Democrats are with the American people. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The states most powerful lawmakers laid bare their true feelings on Friday about the political upheaval caused by Utahs Proposition 4 redistricting law, saying that it risks permanently upending the legislative system. Eight years ago the Better Boundaries ballot initiative, or Prop 4, galvanized anti-gerrymandering organizers and led to sharp partisan pushback. On Friday, Utah Senate leadership made it clear the rancor has only intensified. Its chaos, said Sen. Scott Sandall, R-Tremonton, who chairs the Legislative Redistricting Committee. This problem that is occurring right now is because the outcome was not what some wanted, so they attacked the process. Advertisement Advertisement But Prop 4 proponents allege the laws fallout including public outcry, a yearslong legal slugfest and a repeal petition stems, instead, from legislators opposition to people placing a check on their authority to decide electoral boundaries. Understanding where Utah is today, eight years into this fight, requires understanding how it began. The stakes in Utahs redistricting battle Ever since voters approved Prop 4 in 2018 by a margin of less than 1%, the law has split Utahs public officials. But over the past 18 months, the debate has erupted into what some top Republicans are calling a constitutional crisis. In July 2024, the Utah Supreme Court flipped constitutional precedent on its head, according to critics. In a unanimous ruling, the GOP-nominated justices prohibited lawmakers from amending ballot initiatives in many circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement When our Supreme Court ruled that the initiative process had superiority over the statutory process they destroyed the Republic, in my mind, Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said. And thats whats caused the chaos. Last fall, a district judge eliminated Utahs 2021 congressional map based on that ruling, declaring the map violated Prop 4s intent. The judge later rejected lawmakers attempt to comply with the law, instead picking a map drawn by plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Now, during the 2026 legislative session, with court cases in flux and candidates on edge ahead of the midterm elections, lawmakers continue to feel the disruption of Prop 4 as it reshapes Utahs political landscape. It has been difficult to keep up with the constantly evolving news cycle of late-night rulings, special sessions and court filings. Here are the key events in Utahs tumultuous, and at times explosive, redistricting battle. 2018: Voters pass Prop 4 In 2017, five years after Utah lawmakers were accused of cracking Salt Lake Countys Democratic strongholds into three U.S. House seats, Better Boundaries was created to sponsor a statewide ballot initiative. Advertisement Advertisement The initiative sought to increase transparency and implement guardrails around the once-in-a-decade redistricting process. It would establish an appointed commission to recommend district maps to the Legislature. While ultimate redistricting authority would remain with lawmakers, Prop 4 required them to vote on recommended maps and for the final map to not unduly favor a political party, or else face lawsuits. In 2018, a majority of voters in Salt Lake, Summit, Carbon and Grand counties driven to the polls at least in part by other initiatives on the ballot that year, including legalizing medical marijuana and expanding Medicaid approved of Prop 4, making it law. 2020: Prop 4 gets amended Before the 2020 legislative session, Better Boundaries approached lawmakers with concerns that Prop 4 in its original form could invite constitutional challenges by interfering with legislators redistricting authority. Advertisement Advertisement After more than a year of negotiations, lawmakers and ballot initiative sponsors held a press conference to champion what both sides called a compromise solution, which later passed both chambers with nearly total bipartisan support. The bill reforming Prop 4, SB200, kept the seven-member redistricting commission, but removed the requirement for lawmakers to accept or reject its proposals, and to provide an explanation for their decision. The bill also replaced Prop 4s list of redistricting criteria forbidding districts that protect incumbents and requiring districts to minimize municipal splits with internal rules to avoid purposeful or undue favoring of parties. 2021: Legislature passes new map The first round of Utahs new redistricting commission did not go as smoothly as some had hoped. Commission member former Rep. Rob Bishop abruptly resigned in October 2021, arguing that the process was biased against rural Utah. Advertisement Advertisement In November, the state Legislatures redistricting committee largely dismissed three congressional maps drafted by the commission, which claimed it had followed a nonpartisan process, though one map used a tool with partisan data. The Legislature ultimately endorsed a congressional map combining urban and rural representation and splitting Salt Lake County between four districts. Cox signed the map into law despite what he labeled a partisan bend. Better Boundaries immediately threatened possible legal challenges or a new ballot initiative. After years of pushing for what the group characterized as fairer congressional representation, Utah appeared to have less competitive districts than before. 2022: Legislature is sued by special interest groups In 2022, the League of Women Voters Utah, Mormon Women for Ethical Government and Millcreek residents, sued lawmakers for allegedly violating the state Constitution by ignoring voters right to initiate legislation and to rein in gerrymandering. Advertisement Advertisement The Legislature grounded its defense in Utahs Constitution, which states, the Legislature shall divide the state into congressional districts. But lawmakers were about to receive an earthshaking message from Utahs top court. 2024: Supreme Court shifts status quo In the summer of 2024, the Supreme Court responded to an appeal of the lawsuit with a new interpretation of the state Constitution: ballot initiatives altering the structure of government would, from now on, be a wholly new class of laws. The ruling prohibited lawmakers from amending initiatives that reform government unless they satisfied the highest legal standard of strict scrutiny, allowing changes only to address a compelling state interest in the least restrictive way possible. 2024: Failed constitutional amendment Shocked by the Supreme Courts ruling, legislative leadership met for a special session to draft a constitutional amendment that would clarify the Legislatures ability to change or repeal ballot initiatives after they are approved by voters. Advertisement Advertisement But, in a decision upheld by the Supreme Court, Gibson ruled that the so-called Amendment D was void because lawmakers did not meet the standard for advertising the amendment in newspapers and the ballot language was unclear. 2025: Judge throws out 2021 map In an August 2025 ruling months after a self-imposed deadline 3rd District Judge Dianna Gibson ruled that SB200 unconstitutionally impaired Prop 4 and that the Legislatures 2021 congressional map needed to be thrown out. Gibson directed the Legislature to approve a remedial map in line with Prop 4. Working on a truncated timeline, lawmakers requested public feedback, and approved a map including two more competitive, but still Republican-leaning seats. 2025: Gibson chooses plaintiffs map In a bombshell decision, delivered on Nov. 10, just minutes before a midnight deadline requested by Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, Gibson rejected the Legislatures offering as an extreme partisan outlier that failed to meet Prop 4 standards. Advertisement Advertisement Up against an election timeline, Gibson said she felt she had no choice but to pick a map submitted by the plaintiffs. Utahs new congressional map, Gibson said, should have a Democratic-leaning district anchored in the northern portion of Salt Lake. 2025: Legislature promises to appeal The ruling ignited a Republican firestorm. Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, vowed to repeal it, GOP lawmakers threatened impeachment and conservatives hurled the accusation of gerrymandering right back at Gibson. Cox backed the Legislature, supporting an appeal and suggesting that Gibsons delayed redistricting decision had limited the ability for justice to fairly play out. This was just the beginning of the Republicans attempt to counter the ruling. 2026: Challenge from U.S. Reps On Monday, U.S. Reps. Burgess Owens and Celeste Maloy of Utah joined 11 local leaders in filing a federal lawsuit alleging the states court-ordered congressional map violates the Elections Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement The federal lawsuit marks just the latest effort to undo Gibsons decision. Her ruling so far has prompted a partial appeal by the Legislature as they are still waiting for Gibson to issue her final judgment and a GOP initiative to repeal Prop 4 entirely. Whether by ballot initiative, litigation, or by supporting judicial reform, we will continue to fight for the rights of all Utahns by strengthening our constitutional republic, Utah Republican Party chair Rob Axson said in a statement. Beyond the backlash, Gibsons ruling has clear political implications. By reducing Utahs GOP-leaning districts from four to three, it has become unclear which districts Owens, Maloy or Reps. Blake Moore or Mike Kennedy will choose to run in. 2025-26: Democratic candidates see opportunity Gibsons map creates a Salt Lake City seat where Kamala Harris won by 23 percentage points in 2024. The district is home to 41% of the states actively registered Democrats and just 15% of the states registered Republicans. At least seven Democratic candidates, including two state lawmakers, have announced their intention to run for the new 1st congressional district, which they see as an unprecedented chance to provide Democratic representation for the state. Over 52% of actively registered Utah voters are Republican, less than 14% are Democrats and roughly 28% are unaffiliated. The other 6% are split among smaller parties. In the 2024 election, Trump won just under 60% of Utahs vote, while Harris won 38%. Looking ahead: Will Prop 4 be repealed? In an effort to counter Gibsons ruling using all means possible, Axson launched a ballot initiative of his own, with the support of Sen. Mike Lee and Attorney General Derek Brown, to repeal Prop 4. The party recruited hundreds of volunteers and paid employees from around the country to try to get 141,000 signatures by Feb. 15 to put Prop 4 on the ballot again. As of Friday, the Lieutenant Governors Office had recorded over 76,000 valid signatures. National GOP weighs in The Beehive States ballot initiative has drawn attention from the highest levels of GOP politics. President Donald Trump endorsed the effort in January, after his son encouraged people to sign up to become paid signature gatherers in October. The initiative also attracted GOP get-out-the-vote guru Scott Presler for an eight-day signature gathering blitz, and Turning Point Action, which is bringing its super chaser door-knocking strategy to Utah for the first time to repeal Prop 4. Repeal effort boils over As election season nears, Prop 4 has brought out the worst of Utah partisanship. Multiple police reports have been filed alleging assault and aggression toward GOP signature gatherers, resulting in at least several dozen lost signatures. Many complaints have also been made by Utah voters who report signature gathers using misleading tactics to score signatures. Some gatherers have characterized the initiative as an effort to stop gerrymandering or remove the crooked judge. Meanwhile, Better Boundaries has launched a signature removal campaign, mailing letters to thousands of voters who signed what the group calls a pro-gerrymandering petition and providing them with forms to remove their names. A criminal investigation is now underway after the GOPs political issues committee, Utahns for Representative Government, flagged potential fraud by its gatherers, with one county clerk disqualifying roughly 300 signatures, KSL reported. Is the repeal popular? A Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll conducted in January found 44% of Utah voters dont know whether they support the repeal effort. The rest of voters are split, with 26% supporting the proposition and 29% opposing it. On Friday, Utah Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, said she shared some concerns about a judge choosing electoral boundaries without legislative input. But many Utah voters have felt this way about the Legislatures actions, she pointed out. Utah is not unique in trying to implement a redistricting commission. Too often, Escamilla said, arguments made in favor of unfettered legislative control over redistricting are only supported by members of states dominant political party. We feel totally excluded from that process, and that hurts our districts that we represent, and I hope thats also acknowledged, Escamilla said. Thats also part of this exercise, that you realize human nature runs a lot of the stuff thats happening. Feb. 9Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and state lawmakers from both parties anticipate an increased focus on legislating resource-guzzling data centers, which have proliferated throughout much of the state in recent years as demand for computing power surges. DeWine told this outlet Thursday that there's "more that needs to be done," legislatively. His comments particularly relate to a letter he and bipartisan governors sent to the region's grid operator, PJM Interconnection, citing concerns about rising electric prices amid an increased demand from data centers and AI enterprises. The federal government has shared similar concerns, with the U.S. Department of the Interior noting in a recent statement that electricity prices within the PJM market "have risen faster than almost anywhere else in the country." Advertisement Advertisement Despite the obstacles data centers have posed, DeWine maintains that he doesn't want to shut them out of Ohio entirely. "I think that data centers are important to the economic development of the state," DeWine told this outlet Thursday, "but we also know they ought to pay their own share, and I think that's the question. No one wants to see their household rates go up because of a data center, so I think there's more work that certainly we could do in this area." Under DeWine, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is in the midst of considering a general permit that would allow data centers, which use huge amounts of water to cool down their hardware, to discharge their wastewater into Ohio's streams under certain conditions. In a document informing Ohioans of the potential permit, the Ohio EPA wrote: "It has been determined that a lowering of water quality of various waters of the state associated with granting coverage under this permit is necessary to accommodate important social and economic development in the state of Ohio." Advertisement Advertisement The permit is currently under review. In June, DeWine went against the legislature to veto a line in the state's 2026 and 2027 operating budget that would have revoked the Ohio Department of Taxation's authority to offer data centers a reprieve from paying taxes on building materials. The veto, still in effect, was another instance in which DeWine touted the economic importance of data centers in Ohio. "Economic development is essential to Ohio's continued growth and prosperity as the heart of innovation, and the state must stay at the forefront of prospering fields such as technology and artificial intelligence," DeWine wrote in his June veto message. "The availability of this tax exemption is important as Ohio competes with other states for technology jobs and capital investment. Further, data centers in Ohio have already led to billions in construction work. Therefore, a veto of this item is in the public interest." Advertisement Advertisement Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman, R-Lima, told statehouse reporters Wednesday that the House may work to override that veto by year's end. "Everybody else has to build a building, they've got to pay tax when they go down to the local lumber yard. I don't know how much lumber is in a data center, but you get the idea," Huffman said. "So I think we need to consider that veto override." Huffman also said there's been "a lot of support" within his caucus to pass House Bill 646, which would create the state's first "Data Center Study Commission" within the Department of Development. The legislature's nonpartisan analysis of the bill says the commission would have to submit a report within six months of incorporation, touching on: Environmental impact; Effect on the electrical grid, including on behind the meter electric supply and on consumer utility rates; Water usage and impact on the local water supply; Noise pollution; Light pollution; Impact on the local economy; Impact on farmland; Value to national security and the development of artificial intelligence; Reports of foreign propaganda intended to create opposition to data centers; And any other relevant topics determined by the commission. H.B. 646 was referred to the House Technology and Innovation committee earlier this month and awaits its first hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Senate Democrats jumped in on the topic on Tuesday with a press conference touting a slate of not-yet-introduced regulations on data centers. Combined, they said the bills will address electrical grid reliability, energy affordability, and responsible water use, with another proposal to ensure a local government's home-rule authority to reject data center construction proposals. Sen. Willis Blackshear, Jr., D-Dayton, said he plans to introduce legislation requiring data centers to prove they will invest in public projects, like community energy or other residential ratepayer upgrades, before they can connect to the grid. "Communities that host data centers see little direct benefit from having data centers located in their backyard," Blackshear said. "Million-dollar corporations come into communities and require residential ratepayers to pick their tabs, socializing the costs for data center interconnection." Advertisement Advertisement The Democrats' exact proposals were not publicly available at the time of reporting. ------ For more stories like this, sign up for our Ohio Politics newsletter. It's free, curated, and delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday evening. Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below. Loading... From the bridge of their charter boat High Class Hooker, Susanna Pope and her husband can look out at the sparkling 65-degree saltwater off Key West, Florida, and envision customers fishing for marlin, wahoo and mahi mahi. Where will they take the tourists today? What fish will be biting? Will the blue skies and calm seas hold? And what the heck should they be calling the water they're fishing in? A year ago, President Donald Trump's edict to rename the Gulf of Mexico formally took effect, and the United States abruptly legally, anyway began referring to it as the Gulf of America. On the right day, beach-goers can find their own spot on the sand, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico/America at Ted Sperling Park at 2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive in Sarasota. Captain Jared Theriot with his deckhand Derrel Levron, on the deck of "Captain Beb." Theriot said he will always consider the Gulf as the Gulf of Mexico, February 3. They were offloading shrimp at David Chauvin's Seafood. After being closed for nearly 40-years the storm surge from Hurricane Helene and then Milton opened Midnight Pass wider and 9 feet deeper. On Sept. 25, 2024, with the water flowing between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, boaters were taking full advantage of going in and out of the new opening. The Gulf of Mexico/America is the ninth largest body of water in the world. Fishing boats in the small village of Cortez photographed as the sun was setting on the evening of July 8, 2009. Along the gulf coast 1 of 5 On the right day, beach-goers can find their own spot on the sand, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico/America at Ted Sperling Park at 2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive in Sarasota. But old habits do indeed die hard, and a USA TODAY Network survey of communities along the coastline from Florida's Key West, Destin and Panama City to Dulac, Louisiana, and Corpus Christi, Texas found there's little agreement about what, exactly, people are calling the body of water they live next to. In many cases, locals just call it the same thing they've always called it. Advertisement Advertisement "Down here, we just refer to it as the Gulf," Susanna Pope, 44, said. "It's like saying you're going into town. You don't have to say Key West. You just say town." What's it called in real life? In Corpus Christi, a vacationing Jeremiah Orta, 22, said he's only heard people who are being "edgy" online use the new name: "I don't think in real life I've ever heard anyone say Gulf of America." Although these coastal communities are home to some of Trump's strongest supporters, few people said they simply fell in line behind the president's declaration. Many locals interviewed by the USA TODAY Network declined to speak publicly, citing concerns about potential political retribution if they were quoted picking one name over the other. Afternoon clouds build over the Gulf of Mexico in this 2023 photo taken from near Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Place-naming experts say it's common for new names to take a long time to stick, particularly if the renaming was done abruptly and without public discussion. Advertisement Advertisement In Sarasota County, Florida, Lueanne Wood, who has been living on the Gulf for the past 41 years, says she sticks to tradition. "As someone in the real estate industry, most of the people that want to move here are older and it can get confusing to call it anything other than what theyve heard their whole lives, the Gulf of Mexico," she said. "Everyone in my life and almost everyone I know calls it the Gulf of Mexico, thats the only name for it." On Marco Island in Florida, Michigan tourist Annette Myers collected shells from what she called the Gulf of Mexico. "This is always going to be the Gulf of Mexico to me," she said. Captain Jared Theriot on the deck of his vessel "Captain Beb," says he will always consider the Gulf as the Gulf of Mexico, February 3. Theriot was offloading shrimp at David Chauvin's Seafood. In Dulac, shrimp boat Capt. Jared Theriot said he's not inclined to consider using the new name. More important to him, he said, was quickly unloading 318 100-pound boxes of frozen shrimp so he could get back onto the water while the fishing remained good. Advertisement Advertisement "I really dont give a f--- what they call it," he said. "Itll always be the Gulf of Mexico to me." Some take pride in the 'Gulf of America' name In Destin, Realtor Mary Anne Windes said most people just say the "Gulf," but aboard her husband's charter fishing boat Sunrise, it's most definitely the Gulf of America. "Weve got the Gulf of America [flag] flying on our boat," Windes said, and they wear Gulf of America T-shirts. "It's absolutely the Gulf of America." The company's Facebook page, however, advertises charter fishing trips on the Gulf of Mexico. In Panama City, Florida, Iowa tourist Jim Nelson said it's the Gulf of America as far as he's concerned. Trump changed the name, and Nelson feels it's justified. Advertisement Advertisement "Theres a lot more coastline, or beach line, for the United States than there is Mexico," Nelson said. Why the name change? In renaming the Gulf, Trump said the new name would better reflect the body of water's important role in fishing, shipping, and oil and gas extraction. Supporters of the change said they hoped it would bring new attention to the important body of water. But critics noted Trump's decision had more than a whiff of colonial imperialism, where White conquerors renamed places to reflect their worldview and minimize those of people who called it something else. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, while flying over the gulf aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl, on Feb. 9, 2025. "As my administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America," Trump said in declaring Feb. 9, 2025, as "Gulf of America Day." Advertisement Advertisement In Fort Myers Beach, Florida, sailboat-dwelling Ian Wylie said he's pleased the president renamed the place he calls home. "I think people refuse to accept that the name has changed for several different reasons some political, some not but Im actually proud that we have a gulf now named after us," said Wylie, who rents beach chairs to tourists. What's in a name? Piloting a boat running supplies to an under-construction bridge at the south end of Fort Myers Beach, Mike "Popeye" Dearden says not only does the name change make sense, but its part of a human tendency to change geographical names throughout history. He said he thinks opposition to the change comes from people disliking Trump, not the name itself. "Did you know the Gulf has enjoyed nine official names in its history? Gulf of Mexico may have been the longest, but its had nine in its history. They change the maps and get over it, the self-described history buff and trivia geek said. "William Shakespeare said, 'Whats in a name?'" Advertisement Advertisement But what is in name? Plenty, said place-naming expert Derek H. Alderman, a chancellor's professor at the University of Tennessee. It's easy to dismiss the Gulf name change as a stunt, Alderman said, but Trump's decision served far deeper purposes than you might at first think. First, he said, it was an early shot at Mexico, a longtime Trump target. Second, Trump has long understood the power in branding and how names shape perception. And third, it allowed the president to set out very early in his term the kind of muscular, go-it-alone approach we've seen unfold over the past year, Alderman said. "The president recognizes the power of names, the power of brands. And he's extended that in a geopolitical sense, applied some of that same logic to the geopolitical realm," he said. "He was not simply changing the name. He was actually enacting a different worldview that said we're going to be signaling in a nationalistic, almost imperialistic way, America is absolutely first and it's all about American interests." Alderman, who served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Reconciliation in Place Names during the Biden administration, said he wonders what impact the name change will have on high school students learning about geography, history and social studies. Advertisement Advertisement For generations, America's borders have remained unchanged, but Trump has said he wants to expand the country's boundaries. Naming and claiming the Gulf is a step in that process, Alderman said. Captain Easton Rodrigue moors his vessel the "Ensliegh," after offloading shrimp at David Chauvin's Seafood in Dulac, February 3. "When you rename the Gulf, you're taking about extending territory in a symbolic sense," he said. "This idea that you simply and in a unilateral way rename a place, claim it, that is a pretty old process that's been going on since the days of colonializations. That worldview will ripple across classrooms and affect how students' worldviews form." Aboard the Louisiana-based shrimp boat Ensliegh, Capt. Easton Rodrigue said that no matter what people call the Gulf, he just wishes more Americans would buy from shrimpers like him, instead of buying cheaper imported shrimp often farmed under unhealthy and dangerous conditions internationally. "They have the guys who call it the Gulf of America, but it's not changin' nothin cuz they still buyin' imports," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Colin Campo, Houma Courier-Thibodaux Daily Comet; Olivia Garrett, Corpus Christi Caller-Times; J. Kyle Foster, Naples Daily News; Amy Bennett Williams, Fort Myers News-Press; Francesca Abarca, Sarasota Herald-Tribune; Tyler Orsburn, Panama City News Herald; Tina Harbuck, The Destin Log This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump renamed this body of water. But what do people really call it? (The Center Square) The embattled head of a New Hampshire agency that failed to tell Gov. Kelly Ayotte about the Trump administration's plans to convert a warehouse into an ICE detention facility has resigned amid a chorus of calls for her to step down. Ayotte spokesman John Corbett announced Monday that the governor of New Hampshire, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Commissioner Sarah Stewart, has resigned from her post "effective immediately" at the governor's request. In a statement, Corbett said the governor will nominate Adam Crepeau, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Services, to serve as Acting Commissioner at the next meeting of the Executive Council, "while the search for a new commissioner continues." Advertisement Advertisement The move comes in response to revelations that Stewart didn't inform the governor about a request from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to convert a 43-acre property in the Town of Merrimack into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility. Ayotte has repeatedly denied any knowledge about the planned ICE facility, saying she reached out to federal officials for information multiple times and received no details. But documents obtained by the New Hampshire Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, released by the group last week, show the state Division of Historical Resources under DES was in discussions with ICE representatives for weeks, afte DHS contacted the agency to inquire if the project was in compliance with federal historic preservation law. Stewart was grilled by Ayotte and other members of the Executive Council last week, peppering her with questions about why she didn't inform the governor about DHS's plans. Advertisement Advertisement In remarks to the council, Stewart took full responsibility for failing to inform the governor but pointed out that her agency doesn't approve projects but only "provides professional, apolitical comments on potential impacts to historical or archeological resources." She blamed the oversight on a lack of communication. "Where the process failed is internal notification," Stewart told the panel. "Division leadership should have elevated this consultation to me because of its potential public sensitivity." Rumors about DHS plans for the ICE warehouse have been swirling for weeks. The Merrimack Town Council has passed a resolution opposing the facility, raising concerns about a loss of tax revenue by taking the property off the tax rolls and the impact on municipal services. Protesters have demonstrated outside the property, according to local news reports. Last week, members of the state's all-Democrat congressional delegation wrote to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding that she "swiftly acknowledge and respond" to concerns expressed by the Merrimack Town Council about ICE's plans to establish a new processing center. Advertisement Advertisement Ayotte, a first-term Republican, has been largely supportive of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown and signed a law in May banning New Hampshire cities and towns from enacting "sanctuary" policies or limiting cooperation with federal immigration crackdowns. The state has signed an agreement with ICE allowing state troopers to arrest and detain immigration suspects after they are trained and certified by federal officials. HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) Harrisburg Police said a man was charged Monday with first degree murder in connection with a deadly December shooting. In addition to the murder charge, Marquan Long Mason, 26, of Harrisburg, faces firearm charges and several other misdemeanors. Long Mason is accused of the Dec. 30 shooting death of 20-year-old Mehki Brooks, according to police. After being shot, police said Brooks drove away but then crashed into cars parked along Burma and S. 25th streets. Police investigating a shooting at S. 26th and Duke streets By watching surveillance video footage, police said they saw Brooks seemed to have been following a Nissan Altima, believed to be driven by Long Mason, for a considerable amount of time. While the vehicles were out of view, police said they heard two gunshots, then the Nissan drove away. Advertisement Advertisement The Nissan was tracked back to a Harrisburg residence and was seized by police. According to the criminal complaint, the inside appeared to have been cleaned, as investigators could not get any fingerprints. The woman who lived at the residence eventually came into the police station for questioning and originally claimed she gave her car to someone who told her theyd change her oil. Phone records police obtained during the investigation showed Long Mason in the same area as the Nissan during the deadly shooting, police said. When Long Mason was taken into custody during a Feb. 4 search at a home that sits along Croyden Road, he spoke with police, where he allegedly changed his story multiple times, according to the criminal complaint. The woman whose Nissan Long Moore was allegedly driving during the shooting was being questioned at the same time as him. Police said she contradicted statements he made. Advertisement Advertisement Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo said Brooks died on his way to the hospital. The Dauphin County Coroners Office ruled his cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Following the shooting, police tape closed the area off for hours as officers investigated the incident. Police investigating crash at Burma and S. 25th streets that is linked to a shooting Police investigating crash at Burma and S. 25th streets that is linked to a shooting Court records show that Long Mason has yet to be arraigned on his charges. He is also facing drug charges after an arraignment on February 4. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. A seven-year-old boy just wants to go back to school. A nine-year-old girl was on her way to Disney World. A 12-year-old boy is watching families around him no longer have hope. Letters from inside a sprawling immigration detention center in rural Texas glimpse what life is like for a growing number of immigrant families with children, from the voices of children themselves. The letters, collected by ProPublica, were published as the Dilley Immigration Processing Center comes under heightened scrutiny from members of Congress and advocacy groups while Donald Trumps administration accelerates a mass deportation effort that has increasingly targeted immigrants with families. Advertisement Advertisement The children some of whom say they have been held there for months are bored, overwhelmed with sadness, losing out on schoolwork, bracing for verbal abuse from detention center staff, and frustrated by what they see as an unjust immigration system that punishes families who are trying to support them, and who fear returning to the countries they fled. They miss their normal lives, friends and classmates, some of whom are hundreds of miles away. I dont want to be in this place, wrote 7-year-old Mia. I want to go to my school, I miss my grandparents, I miss my friends, I dont like the food here, I miss my school, I dont like being here, I am bored here, I dont feel so good in this place, I already want to leave this place, I miss my uncles, I hope to leave here soon. A growing number of immigrant families are being detained at a rural facility in Texas as the Trump administration turned its focus on people with families in the countrys interior (AFP via Getty Images) A surge of family detentions Immigration and Customs Enforcement detentions have exploded over the last year, with more than 70,000 people being held at any given point inside detention centers across the country. While the federal government does not publicly disclose information about children in immigration custody, data from advocacy groups, attorneys and investigative news organizations suggest that a growing number of those detainees are children. Advertisement Advertisement The Dilley detention center, which is operated by private prison firm CoreCivic, is roughly 70 miles south of San Antonio. Joe Bidens administration stopped holding families there in 2021, but Trump re-opened the facility as his administration began pursuing immigrants with families who have spent years living in the countrys interior. Roughly 3,500 detainees, more than half of them children, have cycled through the facility since it reopened, according to an analysis from ProPublica. Dilley Immigration Processing Center in rural Texas has come under heightened scrutiny after measles outbreaks and allegations from lawmakers, attorneys and detainees about conditions inside (AP) Children generally cannot be detained for longer than 20 days, though court filings and testimony collected by ProPublica suggest many children are being held there for weeks or months at a time, including two teenage brothers who have been there for four months. Jorge said he celebrated his 14th birthday in Dilley with a small cake made with commissary cookies. He spends most of his days sleeping. Fear of returning Nine-year-old Maria traveled from Colombia to visit her mother in Florida, where the family was planning to visit Disney World. ICE officers detained them upon her mothers arrival from New York and then sent them to Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Maria said she fainted twice inside Dilley. When I arrived every night I cried and now I dont sleep well, she wrote. I felt that being here was my fault and I only wanted to be on vacation like a normal family. Maria and her mother were later deported to Colombia. Fourteen-year-old Ariana and her mother were detained in New York City December 1 during a regular check-in with ICE, which they are required to attend as they await a decision from an immigration court judge in their asylum case. Ariana, who is originally from Honduras, fears that she will be forced to return. I have never felt so much fear to go to a place as I feel here every time I remind myself that once I go back to Honduras a lot of dangerous things could happen to my mom and my younger siblings [who] havent been able to see their mom in more than a month, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Inside Dilley, all you will feel is sadness and mostly depression, she wrote. Immigrant families are routinely detained immediately after immigration court appearances or during routine check-in appointments at ICE offices (Getty Images) Recent detainees include five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and two-year-old Chloe Renata Tipan Villacis, along with their fathers. Liam and his father Adrian Conejo Arias were ordered released from the facility earlier this month, and Chloe was ordered to the custody of a family attorney, but their cases have fueled outrage against the Trump administrations expansive efforts to arrest and quickly remove thousands of people from the country. The two children were among at least seven students from the same school district detained by federal agents in recent weeks, ranging in age from five to 17 years old, according to Zena Stenvik, the superintendent for Columbia Heights Public Schools. Advertisement Advertisement In letters obtained by ProPublica, children say theyre falling behind in school without access to appropriate education inside. Alexander Perez, a 15-year-old from the Dominican Republic, told ProPublica that classes at Dilley consist of mixed age groups with only 12 students at a time for one hour lessons on a first-come, first-served basis. One instructor turned a social studies lesson into what felt like a lecture about immigration policy, he said. If we have recreational activities and classes designed to help us disconnect from what were experiencing here, why the need to ask ourselves these questions? he told ProPublica. I didnt think that was right. People are always sick ICE confirmed at least two measles cases inside the Dilley center this month after lawyers representing immigrants inside raised alarms over the possibility of an outbreak and a wave of reported illnesses among children. Advertisement Advertisement Another recent lawsuit alleges detention center staff failed to provide adequate medical care for a gravely ill 18-month-old girl who was hospitalized with life-threatening respiratory illnesses after ICE allegedly ignored her parents pleas for aid. Democratic Rep. Joaquin Castro, left, met with five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father Adrian Conejo Arias after their lawsuit alleging wrongful detention inside Dilley sparked international outrage against Trumps deportation campaign (Rep. Joaquin Castro) In their letters provided to ProPublica, the children say people inside are always sick and detention staff dont care. The only thing they tell you is to drink more water and the worst thing is that it seems like the water is what makes people sick here, wrote 12-year-old Ender. They dont have schools, doctor, all they have are nurses, wrote Ariana. If you need medical attention the longest you have to wait is 3 hours, but to get any medicine, pill, anything it takes a while, there are various viruses people are always sick. Advertisement Advertisement Homeland Security insists that detainees in ICE custody have access to the best healthcare many aliens have received in their entire lives. It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody, according to assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin. This includes medical, dental, and mental health intake screening within 12 hours of arriving at each detention facility, a full health assessment within 14 days of entering ICE custody or arrival at a facility, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. DHS has repeatedly defended its detention of children with immigrant parents and has urged families to take control of their departure from the United States with the CBP Home app. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream, McLaughlin said. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth gives brief remarks to employees at Anduril Industries at Quonset Point after his tour of the factory floor Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. On his first official visit to Rhode Island Monday morning to celebrate and inspire workers at Americas shipyards and defense manufacturing facilities, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth kept about 250 of them standing around waiting for him. Hegseth was over 45 minutes late for a scheduled 10:15 a.m. tour of Anduril Industries Quonset Point factory, the third stop on his morning visit to the North Kingstown port and business park after first swearing in 40 new military recruits at the Seabees Museum and then speaking to a crowd of 3,000 employees at General Dynamic Electric Boats manufacturing hub. His motorcade took him past a crowd of about 100 protestors at the entrance to the memorial park that is home to the museum honoring the U.S. Navys elite construction battalion. Advertisement Advertisement Hegseths visit to Electric Boats facility for building outer hulls and interiors for nuclear-powered submarines was closed to the press because it was in a classified area, Myra Lee, spokesperson for General Dynamics Electric Boat, said. He arrived at Electric Boat at around 9:30 a.m. He was originally only supposed to spend 45 minutes he spent a lot longer speaking with our employees and crew members that were there, Lee said in a phone interview. He was late to everything after that. Electric Boats hub is two miles away from Anduril, a manufacturer of unmanned submarines, where the press was allowed inside to wait in a designated area on the factory floor while employees were talking among themselves. Silence fell over the crowd when Hegseth and a wall of security officials finally arrived at 11:07 a.m. for a 25-minute tour, followed by a nearly eight-minute speech. His morning visit to Rhode Island before heading to Maines Bath Iron Works in the afternoon was part of his nationwide Arsenal of Freedom campaign highlighting the defense industrys manufacturing might and the need to cut red tape. Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump signed an executive order last April to bolster the shipbuilding industry, which faces a critical shortage of skilled workers, aging infrastructure, and limited capacity to meet U.S. Navy demand. Americas shipyards would need to substantially ramp up production in order to build another 100 or so battle force ships over the next three decades, particularly for nuclear-powered submarines, according to a Congressional Budget Office analysis of the Navys 2025 shipbuilding plan. Trump on Jan. 7 signed an executive order that blocks underperforming defense contractors from paying dividends or buying back stock until they are able to produce a superior product, on time and on budget. Hegseth told Andurils workers that production is too tethered to an existing pipeline that has become too slow. We dont get what we need when we need it, Hegseth said, before invoking the new name for the federal governments largest agency. I can assure you inside this War Department, were committed to ensuring the best of the best can run as fast as possible. A pair of Anduril employees haul a Dive-LD autonomous submarine across the defense contractors Quonset Point factory floor ahead of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths arrival on Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) No members of Rhode Islands Congressional delegation were present for Hegseths stop in the Ocean State. Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Islands U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, the ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, had been invited to join Hegseth but declined because of a previously scheduled 10 a.m. engagement in Woonsocket. He joined fellow Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, Gov. Dan McKee and other officials for a ribbon cutting at Millrace, a 70-unit affordable housing development with 23,000 square feet of commercial and community space in a renovated three historic mill complex. Reed had secured over $1 million in federal funds to expand affordable housing in downtown Woonsocket. Reed, who voted against Hegseths appointment to lead the Pentagon last year, citing his lack of experience and past conduct, saw the secretarys Rhode Island visit as a positive development. I hope the secretary comes away from this visit with a keen appreciation for the skill, dedication, and innovation of our talented defense workers and an understanding of the need to invest in our Submarine Industrial Base shipbuilders, shipyards, and critical suppliers, he said in a statement. Hegseth appeared to be impressed as he saw the various stages of development of Andurils Dive-LD autonomous submarines, which can be used for seabed mapping, establishing communications relays, and infrastructure inspection. Advertisement Advertisement The California-headquartered company landed an $18.6 million U.S. Navy contract in 2024 to prototype distributed, long-range, persistent underwater sensing and payload delivery in contested environments. Youre on the frontlines of ensuring we stay ahead, Hegseth said. And every day we stay ahead is a day that we deter conflict. Hegseth is the third Trump cabinet head to visit Rhode Island after Secretary of Education Linda McMahon toured Exeter-West Greenwich Regional Junior High and High School last month and Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez DeRemer stopped at a Cranston fire station last August. Hegseth commended employees for showing up on the heels of the New England Patriots Super Bowl 60 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Advertisement Advertisement I hear there was a game on Sunday, but we wont talk about that, Hegseth told the crowd. Thanks for showing up on Monday for work. That shows youre motivated. After Hegseth finished his remarks, he walked off to Got to Hurry by the Yardbirds as it played over the factorys speakers. Lucy Christie in green hat, and her husband George Christie, in orange hat, of East Greenwich are shown on Gate Road where protesters gathered for the visit of U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth at Quonset Point on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Rhode Island unwelcomes Hegseth The temperature outside was about 14 degrees. But the cold couldnt keep away at least 100 protesters lining the north side of Gate Road, flanking the entrance to the Seabees Memorial Park where the Seabees Museum is located. Some passing cars honked at the protesters in the cold, which seemed to warm their spirits, eliciting clapping and cheers. If Minnesota can do it, so can we, Lucy Christie of East Greenwich said in an interview about 10 minutes before Hegseths motorcade passed by. She held a brown cardboard sign reading HEALTH CARE NOT WARFARE. Advertisement Advertisement We were so upset and embarrassed about the war crimes committed by the Department of Defense and we just needed to take this opportunity to bring that up to Hegseth and his entourage, she added. Her husband George Christie stood next to her holding a U.S. Marine Corps flag. George said he thought Hegseth promotes his false and fake machismo as a veteran with little appreciation for history. I respect the fact that he was in the service, George Christie said. I dont respect the lessons he learned while he was in the service. I dont respect the person he works for. I believe what he needs to understand if he reads his history that it was Athens that eliminated the Persian threat, not Sparta. His business of degrading scouting because it tries to upgrade the lives of women and gay people is violently offensive to anybody that actually fought for this country or cared for this country, for all the people of this country, and he doesnt and that needs to be changed. Advertisement Advertisement Dubbed Rhode Island Unwelcomes Hegseth, the protest was organized by West Bay Blue Wave. Carol Schimmelpfennig of Brooklyn, Connecticut, who is in her mid-70s, said the cold couldnt keep her away. Think about what these people are doing to this country, and this is how we have to show our support to come out in the cold, Schimmelpfennig said. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth signs a panel of the Dive-LD vehicle made by employees at Anduril Industries at Quonset Point during his tour of the factory floor. on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) An Anduril employee helps haul a Dive-LD autonomous sub across the defense contractor's Quonset Point factory floor ahead of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's arrival on Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Anduril employees look out over the company's Quonset Point factory floor as U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tour's its assembly line Feb. 9. 2026. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Advertisement Advertisement The motorcade carrying U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth passes protestors turning into the entrance to the Seabee Memorial Park on Gate Road in North Kingstown. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Demonstrators including military veterans turned out to protest the visit by U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday at Quonset Point in North Kingstown. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Independent journalist Steve Ahlquist at far left, records demonstrators including military veterans, who turned out to protest the visit by U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at Quonset Point in North Kingstown. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Demonstrators including military veterans turned out to protest the visit by U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday at Quonset Point in North Kingstown. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Advertisement Advertisement Lucy Christie in green hat, and her husband George Christie, in orange hat, of East Greenwich are shown on Gate Road to honk in protest of the visit of U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth at Quonset Point on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) Rev. DL Helfer of Providence holds a sign encouraging passing motorists on Gate Road to honk in protest of the visit of U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth at Quonset Point on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) The factory floor of Anduril Industries, a maker of autonomous underwater vehicles, at Quonset Point in North Kingstown, R.I., is shown on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is shown on the factory floor of Anduril Industries, a maker of unmanned submarines, at Quonset Point after his tour of the factory floor Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth gives brief remarks to employees at Anduril Industries at Quonset Point after his tour of the factory floor Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth gives brief remarks to employees at Anduril Industries at Quonset Point after his tour of the factory floor Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX BRUSSELS, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese New Year celebrations have been unfolding across multiple European cities, drawing local residents into a festive atmosphere of performances, cuisine and cultural exchange. In Budapest, the landscape of the 10th district was transformed under a crisp winter sky by the thunder of drums and the aroma of Sichuan spices on Saturday. The Budapest Chinatown Spring Festival Temple Fair brought the Year of the Horse to life with vivid colors, music and traditional artistry. For Karina Szucs, a local resident attending the festival for the first time, the experience was deeply moving. She singled out Chinese opera as a highlight. "They had very beautiful voices," she said, adding that the warmth of the performers and the chance to take part in traditional activities made the event especially memorable. Held on Saturday and Sunday, the celebration offered many Hungarians their first close encounter with China's intangible cultural heritage. In Bulgaria, the Year of the Horse was marked with performances at the Confucius Institute in Sofia. Borislav Goranov, a 20-year-old university student, said celebrating Chinese New Year alongside Chinese participants created a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. The festivities in Sofia were further elevated by the China National Peking Opera Company, which launched its "Happy Chinese New Year" tour with a landmark performance at Bulgaria's National Palace of Culture. The gala, the troupe's first dedicated performance in the country, featured a blend of classic and new works, earning warm applause from audiences. In Germany, the biting winter cold outside Berlin's historic Red Town Hall contrasted with the warmth inside, where a Chinese New Year gala was held on Thursday evening. Marking the 12th year the landmark has hosted "Happy Chinese New Year" celebrations, the event brought together more than 300 German and Chinese guests. Berlin Zoo and Tierpark Director Andreas Knieriem, attending for the fourth time, praised the high standard of the event. He noted that while Berlin winters can be harsh, the atmosphere inside offered a different kind of warmth, filled with smiling faces. In France, the Chinese New Year was celebrated in a different form, as La Poste Group issued two stamps marking the Year of the Horse. Featuring horses set against a yellow background with red saddles, the designs capture both dynamic energy and calm composure. Since 2005, La Poste has issued special stamps annually to mark the Chinese New Year. Spain also joined the celebrations, with thousands gathering in central Barcelona on Saturday as the city kicked off its two-day Chinese New Year festivities. In Poland, Chinese and Polish artists staged a joint gala in the Mazowsze region on Friday night as part of a broader series of Spring Festival celebrations. Columbus is known for Red, White and Boom, its festival and spectacular fireworks show held every July 3. This year, on America's Semiquincentennial, or 250th birthday, Columbus and partners will hold an encore party on July 4. The free festival on Independence Day Downtown will include performances by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, interactive historical displays and historical reenactors, food trucks and film showings at the Ohio Theater. Festivities will take place on some streets Downtown, the Ohio Statehouse lawn and at Columbus Commons. The Columbus Association for the Performing Arts hopes to put on a drone show following a patriotic symphony performance at the Commons. Fireworks would be a back-up option. Advertisement Advertisement More: How will Ohio celebrate America's 250th anniversary Columbus leaders gathered Feb. 9 to announce the festival and how organizations and city institutions from the Columbus Air Show to the Columbus Metropolitan Library will celebrate the history of the USA throughout 2026. Columbus City Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer, chair of the America250 Columbus Committee, said she remembers being a teenager during the country's bicentennial in 1976. "It was a time of great joy and people just came together," Day-Achauer said. "It was unifying. We had pride. And it lasted beyond that year. And I'm hoping that this year will be as inspirational." Michael B. Coleman, former Columbus mayor and co-chair of America250 Ohio, said it's important to come together during this unprecedented time of division in the country. Advertisement Advertisement "We live in the greatest nation on Earth and Ohio played a key part of where we are today," Coleman said. "This is the opportunity where we can unify and come together as a nation, as a state and as a city." How will Columbus celebrate America250 in 2026? City leaders held their media briefing at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum to highlight that the museum has a permanent exhibit on the American Revolution. The Columbus Metropolitan Library will host American history programs and exhibits at every branch this year. In the summer, the Main Library located Downtown will host an exhibit called "Freedom, the History of Us." The Columbus Museum of Art will be highlighting American artists all year. Kevin and Tori Valentine of Whitehall walk along the Scioto Mile during the Red, White & BOOM! celebration of Independence Day on July 3, 2025. On 614 Day this year, there will be a celebration of 250 things to love about Columbus. Advertisement Advertisement The Columbus Air Show scheduled for June 19 to 21 will feature special America250 finales at twilight on Friday and Saturday. These finales will feature fireworks, pyrotechnics, flying and music celebrating America. The airshow also announced it will include flying demonstrations from the F-35A Lightning II for the first time. The Fourth of July parade is still planned in Northland on Karl Road. Government and politics reporter Jordan Laird can be reached at jlaird@dispatch.com. Follow her on X, Instagram and Bluesky at @LairdWrites. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus plans year-long celebration for America's 250th anniversary Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democratic U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett are leading their respective primaries in the campaign for U.S. Senate, but the GOP race appears to be headed to a runoff, according to a poll released Monday by the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs shows. The poll, which comes roughly a week before the Feb. 17 start of early voting, also foreshadows a tight race in November no matter which candidates emerges from the March 3 primary. Advertisement Advertisement Paxton, who joins U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt of Houston in the effort to knock off four-term U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, was quick to capitalize on the poll's finding that the incumbent has the highest unfavorable rating among the three competitors. This independent poll makes crystal clear what my campaign has known all along: John Cornyn is deeply disliked by Republican voters, and that would make him a major liability in November, Paxton said in a statement, adding that Cornyn is "lighting tens of millions on fire" by running digital and TV ads that have not advanced him beyond second place. READ MORE: Pro-Paxton PAC, mystery group buy up $3M in ads attacking Wesley Hunt The Hobby School surveyed 1,502 self-identified likely voters who were contacted online Jan. 20-31. Of those respondents, 550 Republicans and 550 Democrats were each polled about their attitudes on their party's Senate race. Advertisement Advertisement Among Republicans, 38% said they would vote for Paxton, 31% favored Cornyn and 17% said they were for Hunt. Minor candidates in the field drew a combined 2% and 12% of respondents were undecided. To win the nomination without a runoff, one candidate must draw an outright majority of votes cast in the primary. The margin of error for both parties is plus or minus 4 percentage points. On the Democratic side, the race is just inside of the margin of error and shows Crockett with 47% and Austin state Rep. James Talarico with 39%. Talarico would have to win over most of the 12% who said they are still undecided to close the gap. Karrol Rimal, spokesman for the Crockett campaign, said the poll pokes holes in claims that Talarico would be the most electable Democrat heading into the fall campaign. Each candidate is only two percentage points behind both Paxton and Cornyn in a hypothetical match-up. Crockett polled three points behind Hunt and Talarico trailed him by four points. The statewide margin of error is 2.5 percentage points. "This poll just confirms what we've known from the beginning, that voters know and support the congresswoman, and that she is in the best position to defeat whoever emerges from the Republican primary," Rimal told Hearst Newspapers. Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico met in first debate, but trained their sights on GOP Talarico's campaign declined to comment, but the Austin Democrat has been aggressively using TV and digital ads to narrow the gap with Crockett, who the Hobby poll and other surveys have shown is the better known of the two candidates. The poll also asked Republican voters about their preference if no candidate wins the primary outright and it goes to a runoff. There, respondents favored Paxton over Cornyn, 51% to 40%, and Paxton over Hunt 56% to 33%. Cornyn holds a 46% to 39% lead over Hunt. James Kyrkanides, a spokesman for the Hunt campaign, called the poll "an interesting snapshot," but pointed to other surveys that show his candidate running much stronger in the GOP field. He did point out that the Hobby poll showed Hunt doing better than his opponents in one-on-one match-ups with both Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement "Among general election voters, Wesley Hunt once again outperforms both John Cornyn and Ken Paxton," Kyrkanides said in an email. "This has been consistent since the day Hunt entered the race in October. The data keeps saying the same thing." Matt Mackowiak, a spokesman for Cornyn, said survey results have varied over the course of the race, which he said is likely to be decided in a runoff between the incumbent and Paxton, "We're not living and dying with every with every single poll," Mackowiak said. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Jimmy Lai arriving at West Kowloon Magistrates Court in 2020. | Credit: Anthony Wallace / AFP / Getty Images What happened A Hong Kong court Monday morning sentenced former media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison. The 78-year-old British citizen, who founded the now-shuttered pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper, was found guilty in December of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials. His punishment is the heaviest penalty yet meted out under a 2020 Beijing-imposed national security law, said Bloomberg. Eight co-defendants received shorter prison terms. Who said what The judges said Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged, which warrants a heavier sentence. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Lai had been jailed for exercising his right to freedom of expression and called for his release on humanitarian grounds. His heavy sentence aligns with how the Chinese Communist Party has punished wealthy entrepreneurs and influential academics in the mainland for challenging the state, said The New York Times. What next? President Donald Trump had encouraged Chinese President Xi Jinping to release Lai, so the sentence could add another sticking point to negotiations between the worlds two largest economies, scheduled for April, said The Wall Street Journal. Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns unveiled the chambers proposal to cut property taxes on the Capitols South Steps on Jan. 28, 2026, in Atlanta. Alander Rocha/Georgia Recorder Georgia state House Republicans have a proposal to help tame the affordability crisis: end property taxes for homeowners by 2032. Party leaders say their proposal, which would benefit Georgians who own and live in their home, will put money into peoples pockets where it belongs. Advertisement Advertisement But the proposed shakeup has municipal and county governments, as well as public school systems, struggling to understand how their traditional method of funding services will be affected. The ambitious tax change has the support of all 99 House Republicans, according to House Speaker Jon Burns. This historic tax relief will be delivering on our commitment to make life more affordable for our neighbors across this entire state of Georgia, starting where it matters most, at home, said the lawmaker from Newington, at a Jan. 28 press conference, holding a copy of House Resolution 1114. Burns plan also limits property tax revenue growth to 3% a year for each county, city and school board. That would limit local officials from recouping funding lost from property owners by shifting a tax burden to owners of rental homes or commercial and industrial properties. Advertisement Advertisement Passage is no sure thing before the legislature ends its session April 2. Burns would need 21 Democratic votes for the supermajority it would take just to get the ambitious rewrite of the tax code through his chamber to the Senate. Meanwhile, state Senate Republican leaders have a separate plan to end personal income taxes, rather than property tax reform. County and municipal leaders have yet to weigh in on the property tax proposal, but in other states alleviating such taxes have ended up moving the burden of funding local public schools and services in other ways, including through higher sales taxes, new homeowner fees or assessments. Billions, one house at a time About two-thirds of Georgia households own a home. If its their primary home, they get a homestead exemption on their local property taxes that is, they dont pay taxes on the full value of their house. Disabled veteran, senior and some other property owners can receive more exemptions that further reduce property tax amounts. Investment properties, vacation cabins and other second homes do not get a homestead exemption. Advertisement Advertisement Public school systems collected an estimated $2.5 billion in taxes on homesteaded houses statewide in 2025, according to the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia. Cities and counties collected at least $1.7 billion, according to the same data, which is not yet finalized. Those amounts dont include some populous counties like Fulton and Chatham. The association is still validating those amounts. The funding from property taxes fuels government services in each of Georgias 159 counties, 180 school districts and more than 500 cities. For example, Glynn County Schools collected about $23 million from homesteaded properties in 2025. Glynn County and Brunswick collected $19 million toward general operations, police, fire and ambulances. Advertisement Advertisement If the House proposed bill becomes law, this $42 million would disappear. The 2025-2026 school years budget was $307 million. Glynn, Brunswick and the county schools could make up the shortfall with new sales taxes, new fees and assessments on homeowners or simply cut services. ACCGs data estimates that the cost of the Burns-backed bill to Glynn government budgets could be made up with an additional sales tax of slightly more than a penny, and by shifting the use of pennies they already collect toward property tax relief. The bills impact, however, varies greatly from county to county. Other communities would need to raise local sales tax from one-third of a penny to more than five cents to make up the loss of homestead revenue, according to the ACCG data. Advertisement Advertisement But there is another hurdle to consider. Georgia law now says total sales taxes can not be greater than 9% of a transaction. Many jurisdictions are already bumping up against that limit to fund current levels of services. A separate mechanism for local communities to raise funds would be charging itemized fees or assessments to homeowners, such as for garbage pickup or fire service. Georgias school boards, cities and counties, which have their own lobbyists, are watching Burns legislation closely. For now, they are in a wait-and-see mode, watching both HR 1114 and its companion legislation, House Bill 1116. The Georgia School Boards Association believes the legislation is likely to change during the session, and it encouraged each school board to immediately try to assess local impact. Advertisement Advertisement We at GSBA want to hear from our members to determine where issues may lie and communicate that to the sponsor, reads their statement to members. We also encourage all of our members to talk with their legislators and help them understand the impacts of ensuring public schools can still operate to serve students at a high level. Avoiding the courthouse steps Georgias public schools, counties and cities have dropped their property tax rates since 2020 on average, according to the Georgia Department of Revenues 2024 Property Tax Administration report. But the assessed value of homes doubled from 2013 through 2023 and that is the main reason driving the rise of property tax bills. So far, Georgias Republican legislative leaders are explaining their bill with a slogan that reflects their partys ideological tilt towards low taxes, rather than public services. Georgia House Republicans believe no one should ever face the loss of their home because they cant afford to pay rent to the government, Burns said at his press conference last month touting the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Democrats, meanwhile, are looking for information that would illustrate the potential threat the proposed tax change would have on public safety agencies, and other local government-funded programs. The state Houses leading Democrat said her caucus has gotten a briefing about the bill by its sponsor, House Ways and Means Chairman Shaw Blackmon, R-Bonaire. But Carolyn Hugley said her caucus still has questions and are listening to their school boards, city councils and county commissions. Theyre concerned because its a tax shift, said Hugley, a Columbus Democrat, speaking to reporters Thursday. Youre going to have to make up what youre giving back in property taxes so that means if youre short, you have got to shift your priorities, she said. There are concerns about what they do for infrastructure projects, to make improvements for the future. Advertisement Advertisement Hugley said her party has proposed more targeted relief, such as credits toward state income taxes for Georgias lowest-income workers. This article first appeared on The Current and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. West Michigan businessman Denny Ellens, whose family has owned the popular Hudsonville Ice Cream brand for more than two decades, has died, according to a statement. Ellens died Saturday, Feb. 7, at the age of 70, a spokeswoman for the company told the Free Press. In a separate statement, Ellens' family honored his life while describing his death as unexpected. Denny Ellens "It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Denny Ellens, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. He deeply believed in building a business grounded in integrity, quality, and service to others, and he took great pride in the West Michigan community we call home. His impact will be felt for generations, and we will miss him dearly. We respectfully ask for privacy during this difficult time," reads the statement from the Ellens family. Advertisement Advertisement Ellens was married to Eileen Ellens, the sister of former-U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and daughter of Holland philanthropist Elsa Prince-Broekhuizen. Hudsonville Ice Cream was founded in 1926 by Dick Hoezee and purchased by the Ellens family in 2003. Soon thereafter, the company moved operations from Hudsonville to Holland, according to a company history included on the Hudsonville Ice Cream website. Ellens ran the company as CEO until 2023, when he left the role while remaining on the board of directors. In a statement, current Hudsonville Ice Cream CEO Tina Floyd commended Ellens for his work at the company and throughout West Michigan. "Denny was an incredible visionary leader who led with humility and a strong sense of responsibility to both Hudsonville Ice Cream and his community. He was admired by our team and an inspiration to so many who knew him. He will be greatly missed," Floyd said. Advertisement Advertisement The statement did not include any details about funeral arrangements. Reach Dave Boucher at dboucher@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Denny Ellens, Hudsonville Ice Cream owner, west Michigan businessman dies Several hundred residents were evacuated from the remote, sparsely populated town of Daly River ahead of severe anticipated flooding, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. What's happening? Around 450 residents were preemptively evacuated, according to an ABC report Wednesday. Daly River, in Australia's Northern Territory, sits adjacent to the waterway that shares its name. Incident Controller David Moore told reporters that an emergency declaration was in effect, with flood levels of over 14 meters (45.9 feet) anticipated. Advertisement Advertisement Moore said evacuations would begin Thursday, and evacuees would be transported by bus to the Foskey Pavilion in Darwin, a 220-kilometer (137-mile) trip. Officials acknowledged Daly River residents could be away from home for "up to a week or longer." Moore also advised residents who wished to manage their own evacuations to act quickly and to be mindful of "unnecessary risks" if they planned to leave town on their own. "Be very aware of crocodiles and other wildlife, particularly with rising water," he cautioned. On Friday, ABC reported that a "handful" of locals had chosen not to leave their homes ahead of potentially catastrophic flooding. Why is this concerning? Throughout January, much of Australia contended with extreme weather in the form of a sustained and brutal heat wave. Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 21, ABC reported that soaring temperatures in some regions grew so severe that they exceeded the upper limit of standard thermometers, with an astonishing recorded temperature of 53.9 degrees Celsius (129 Fahrenheit) in Western Australia. In addition to life-threatening heat, farmers feared concurrent droughts would destroy crops. Droughts, heat waves, and floods are long-established atmospheric phenomena, but an overheating planet driven by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, has intensified them. As temperatures rise, evaporation increases in tandem, supercharging already severe forms of weather. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, extreme flooding has become far more common in the past two decades. Advertisement Advertisement Citing NASA research, the EDF said that "the proportion of people across the globe living in flood-prone areas has risen by 20% to 24% since 2000." Long-term residents of Daly River like Trevor Hutchinson, who stayed behind to assist others ahead of the anticipated flooding were well aware of the impacts of extreme flooding. Hutchinson helped with evacuations amid a major flood in 2018, transporting dozens of stranded neighbors by boat, and he recalled the impact of recurring floods on infrastructure and municipal services, such as electricity and sewer systems. Moore acknowledged that evacuated residents could remain in Darwin for up to two weeks, as homes in Daly River would need to be thoroughly assessed for safety. What's being done about it? Moore warned residents not to drive through floodwaters and urged individuals to tell others where they planned to go and when they expected to arrive, ensuring locals were accounted for before the Daly River began rising. Advertisement Advertisement More broadly, awareness of key climate issues is critical as extreme weather becomes more commonplace worldwide. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A build-out of data centers across the Southwest is generating both enthusiasm and alarm as communities weigh promises of economic growth against fears of environmental fallout. In Southern New Mexico, local leaders say Project Jupiter, a $165 billion hyperscale data center in Dona Ana County that will house OpenAI and Oracle, represents an unprecedented economic opportunity. Jerry Pacheco, president of the Border Industrial Association in Santa Teresa, called the development unlike anything the region has seen. We drove about three quarters of a mile into the project and I could not see the end of the project. It is enormous, Pacheco said. Advertisement Advertisement The project is expected to bring an estimated 750 workers to the area, driving a housing boom and attracting interest from other major companies, Pacheco said. The data center is projected to generate more than $300 million in direct payments to the County and offer fulltime salaries averaging between $75,000 and $100,000. Goldman Sachs call this the largest infrastructure project in the United States. Were getting inquiries from major companies that say, Why did they locate there? Whats so good about Santa Teresa? And now we can get on our soapbox and do our pitch, Pacheco said. On the opoosing spectrum, advocacy groups argue these benefits fail to outweigh the environmental risks linked to the development. Esperanza Chairez, policy campaign manager with Youth United for Climate Action and Earth Care (YUCCA), said the project presents a false promise, warning that economic arguments are being pitted unfairly against environmental protection. The coalition of 16 organizations is urging the New Mexico Environment Department to prioritize community involvement and transparency in its review of air quality permits for the site. They have requested a public hearing as well as oversight of proposed microgrids that would power the facility. Advertisement Advertisement According to legal notices from Acoma LLC, affiliated with Borderplex Digital Assets, the two proposed microgrids could emit more than 14 million tons of greenhouse gases annually. As New Mexico navigates the controversy, El Paso is preparing for its own major data center expansion. Meta is set to build a $1.5 billion facility on 1,000 acres in Northeast El Paso, a project expected to employ around 100 people. The company secured incentives from the City of El Paso in 2023. The new data center has placed scrutiny on local utilities as residents question whether they will bear any financial burden. Jim Schichtl, vice president of regulatory and customer solutions for El Paso Electric, said taxpayers will not subsidize Metas energy needs. A proposed $473-million, gaspowered plant that is currently pending state approval would be paid for entirely by Meta, Schichtl said. Advertisement Advertisement Theres two aspects to the service to Meta. Theres the EDR rate that have been filed with the commission and then the planned new gas facility thats also planned for Meta. So, both of those are cost-based. That is the service we provide will be provided to them on the basis the actual cost of service. So, on the gas generation plant thats been in the news, those rates are entirely for Meta and Meta pays the entire cost of the facility, Schichtl said. El Paso Water officials shared similar assurances. CEO John Balliew said Meta will not receive special water rates, noting the company will pay a higher tier due to its largevolume use but will otherwise be treated like any customer. The facility is expected to rely on an aircooled system, using an average of 400,000 gallons of water per day, with the ability to draw up to 1.5 million gallons during extreme heat. Balliew added that despite community concern, large wateruse customers account for only about 5% of overall system demand. As construction advances on both sides of the state line, environmental groups continue pressing leaders and tech companies to keep community welfare at the forefront. Advertisement Advertisement Chairez criticized what she described as corporate attempts to win favor through donations to local nonprofits after financing for Project Jupiter was already secured. These companies have now come into our communities pretending that they care about us by giving us large sums of donations to the Boys and Girls Club, to our food pantry and presenting this as like altruism as like, Look, we want your best interest, or we have your best interests in mind. And while I welcome that sort of investment, it came after the fact of this $165 billion revenue bond, Chairez said. Both data centers are expected to be completed and running by 2028. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. In January, College Park residents learned Immigration and Customs Enforcement was planning to open an office in their community, catching many unaware. And now, the city of Social Circle, a suburb located 45 miles east of the city, will host a sprawling new warehouse detention facility that can hold 10,000 people. As soon as April, people could reportedly begin arriving, further increasing local fears that the metro Atlanta area is poised to see a significant increase in immigration detention and deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Recently, Social Circle had tried to fight the purchase by Homeland Security based on water and sewer concerns, but according to a post on its Facebook page, the deal has been finalized. The City of Social Circle has been informed by multiple sources that the sale of 1365 E. Hightower Trail has been completed. The City of Social Circle will continue to monitor developments and will share confirmed information with the public as it becomes available. There are also reportedly plans to open a smaller detention center in Jefferson, Georgia, about 60 miles outside of Atlanta, to hold 1500 people. College Park is on alert When news about the new ICE facility in College Park began spreading, videos of vehicles adorned with ICE logos being trucked into metro Atlanta circulated, along with texts alerting residents to cooperate by showing ID if stopped. Advertisement Advertisement ICE spokesperson Lindsay Williams told WABE that more of the agencys officials are working in a new office, but she declined to say where its located. In an emailed statement, College Park officials said theyre aware of a possible ICE administrative office recently opening in the city. We are committed to complying with all applicable laws while remaining transparent with our residents and businesses, spokesperson Gerald H. Walker said via email. Our priority is sharing accurate information, dispelling misinformation, and reducing fear within our community. Dangerous prison becomes detention center Last year, Georgia began quietly working on building what would then be the largest ICE facility in the country, following the passage of President Donald Trumps Big Beautiful Bill. Advertisement Advertisement Charlton County, located 10 miles from the Florida border and 274 miles south of Atlanta, approved a nearly $50 million agreement with ICE in June to expand the Folkston ICE Processing Center from 1,100 detainees to nearly 3,000. The plans incorporate the shuttered D. Ray James Correctional Facility into the existing footprint. In previous reporting, Capital B Atlanta noted that Folkston, a private prison run by The GEO Group, is not without considerable problems. According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, in 2022, the Department of Homeland Securitys Office of the Inspector General published the results of a 2021 inspection of Folkston, citing unsanitary and dilapidated facilities, with water leaks, mold and debris in the ventilation system, insect infestations, lack of access to hot showers, inoperable toilets, and no hot meals. Folkston did not meet standards for facility conditions, medical care, grievances, segregation, staff-detainee communications, and handling of detainee property, the report read. We identified violations that compromised the health, safety, and rights of detainees. Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Jaspal Singh, an Indian national, died after spending nine months in detention at Folkston. He was 57. Read More: Staff writer Chauncey Alcorn contributed to this report. The post ICE Deportation Plans Ramping Up in Atlanta with New Location appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. Officials with the City of Social Circle said they learned on Sunday that Immigrations and Custom Enforcement now owns a large property and warehouse that was previously reported by 11Alive as a potential proposed property for a new ICE detention facility site. In a social media post on Sunday, a spokesperson with the city said that previous property owner PNK no longer owns the facility, and that ICE is now the new owner. It was just this past Wednesday that city officials said they were informed that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is moving forward with plans to establish an immigration detention facility on that same site, located at 1365 E. Hightower Trail. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) and members of his staff had informed Social Circle officials during a call on Feb. 4 that the property was then currently in escrow and moving toward final purchase by Homeland Security, the city said in a statement on social media. The city now says that purchase has been finalized. According to Collins and his staff, the site was initially considered as an alternative location but was later identified as a preferred site after certain operational metrics aligned, city officials said. The city said previously it was also informed that Homeland Security has conducted an engineering evaluation of city utilities and that economic impact reports are being prepared but have not been finalized. City officials said they have not been asked for input on the evaluation or planning process, nor have they provided any. Social Circle has formally requested the information in writing, including clarification on the anticipated timeline, according to the statement. Collins and his staff indicated that housing at the facility is expected to begin as early as April, the city said. Advertisement Advertisement Social Circle residents rallied against the proposed ICE facility when they packed a local town hall to voice their opposition earlier last month. "If you put that many people here, you obviously will have to house other support facilities," Social Circle Mayor David Keener told 11Alive's Grace King last month. "We would have to have more police officers. The sheriff's department would probably have to help us with that... basically, citizens of Social Circle do not want this. Our city council opposes this as well." Northeast Georgia Regional Commission documents indicate the site was originally proposed as a 1.3-million-square-foot industrial warehouse and a 1-million-square-foot distribution center by a logistics company, Longleaf, in 2022. The Walton Tribune reported many residents objected to it at the time. City officials said PNK was the latest warehouse and property owner prior to ICE's reported purchase. The main issue, according to a Dec. 31 Facebook post, is infrastructure: Social Circle calls any such proposal "infeasible" because it doesn't have the water and sewer capacity for a structure that would "result in an effective tripling" of the city's population of about 5,000. The facilities would reportedly hold 5,000-10,000 people ahead of deportations. Advertisement Advertisement One further concern is safety the city saying there is no site within its boundaries "that will provide a safe distance from homes, businesses and schools" and that it would "not tolerate a failure in security." City officials said they will continue to seek verified information and will share updates with the public as they become available. This story appears as part of a collaboration between The Maine Monitor and Maine Focus, the investigative team of the Bangor Daily News, a partnership to strengthen investigative journalism in Maine. You can show your support for this effort with a donation to The Monitor. Read more about the partnership. A January immigration enforcement surge was purportedly aimed at some of the worst of the worst criminals. But the vast majority of arrested immigrants identified by the Bangor Daily News have no criminal records. Through a review of court records, press releases and media reports, the BDN identified 67 people detained by federal agents in what they called Operation Catch of the Day. The administration of President Donald Trump said it arrested 206 immigrant offenders but has only specifically named 10 people in public statements. Advertisement Advertisement The BDNs list of 67 people is the most comprehensive one compiled so far. A review of the cases show that the majority of people identified had some prior interaction with the immigration system. The demographic breakdown is also similar to ICEs prior pattern of arrests here. Of the 67 people identified by the BDN, 58 of them lacked a criminal record that could be independently verified despite claims that the operation was meant to capture the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. That means in court filings their lawyers said they didnt have a criminal record, it had previously been reported they didnt have a record, or convictions didnt appear via background checks run by the BDN. Three people identified in media reports and a press release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are listed pending criminal charges that have not yet been fully adjudicated. In the case of a Guatemalan man who has been in the country for two decades, his lawyer said he was previously convicted of driving under the influence, but that the incident hadnt harmed anyone or property. Two-thirds of the people we identified had already been in contact with the federal immigration system. This can mean a number of things. Advertisement Advertisement For example, 20 of them were asylum seekers. The rest of this group had been granted a temporary status, were attending routine check-ins with immigration officials or had work authorization. Some already had future court dates in front of immigration judges. We found that four people had never had a previous interaction with immigration authorities, even when they entered the country, which likely means they are undocumented. The largest group of people identified was originally from Angola. A third of the cases identified by the BDN involved people from Angola. Of those cases, 15 either came to the U.S. legally with a visa, had applied for asylum or already had a date scheduled to appear before an immigration judge. The next largest group of people detained and identified were from Ecuador. Advertisement Advertisement This generally follows the trend of ICE arrests earlier in President Donald Trumps second term. Many Angolans are asylum seekers who crossed the southern border illegally, while Ecuadorians are often doing roofing work here. How we did this The BDN obtained and reviewed more than a thousand pages of federal court documents filed throughout New England. We interviewed lawyers representing the people detained, attended immigration courts, and reviewed articles, press releases, and other media that contained the names of people detained. To review criminal backgrounds, the BDN reviewed the legal filings and partnered with The Maine Monitor to run background checks using a proprietary software system. ANKARA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish Trade Ministry announced on Monday measures to halt poultry meat exports, aiming to support the supply-demand balance in the domestic market. "As a step to support the supply-demand balance in the market, measures to suspend poultry meat exports have been implemented as of today," the ministry said in a statement. Recent regional developments affecting global food markets, along with a rise in domestic demand and seasonal changes in consumption patterns, have led to faster price fluctuations in certain product groups, the ministry stated. Against this backdrop, prices in the poultry meat market are being closely monitored to assess whether pricing behavior aligns with normal market conditions, the statement noted. Any practices or speculative pricing behavior that could harm consumers or disrupt market functioning through excessive price increases are being closely tracked by the ministry, with inspections and sanctions carried out decisively when necessary, the statement added. The decision came after some companies in the poultry meat sector raised their prices significantly. Ministry officials had earlier met with business representatives and requested that the price increases be reversed. As Thailand geared up for its second general elections in three years on February 8, 2026, a synthetic image of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dining with a South African businessman whom a report has accused of laundering money for scam networks surfaced in posts discussing the two men's purported ties. The Thai leader -- whose conservative party claimed victory in the polls -- has previously said he had "casual" meetings with Benjamin Mauerberger after genuine photos of the pair together in 2014 surfaced online. However, an analysis using Google's SynthID tool found the circulating image was AI-generated. The image of Anutin at a dinner table with Mauerberger, also known as Ben Smith, and three other women spread in a February 7 Facebook post from a page called "CSI LA", which frequently shares claims about corruption amongst Thai officials. "Ben is everything to you. Everything revolves around Ben and Ben appears everywhere. Ben has been involved with Thai politics for more than 20 years," reads the Thai-language caption on the image, which is timestamped "OCT 14 '05". Advertisement Advertisement The post surfaced on the eve of Thailand's general election on February 8, which the conservative Anutin claimed he had won after television stations projected his Bhumjaithai party would be by far the largest in parliament (archived link). Thailand's border dispute with Cambodia, which erupted into open fighting in July and December, was forefront in the minds of many voters, with analysts saying a wave of nationalism propelled Anutin to victory. Screenshot of a Facebook post sharing an AI-generated image taken February 8, 2026, with a red X added by AFP However, Anutin and other high-ranking Thai politicians and business figures had been plagued by a December 2025 leak of photos showing them with Mauerberger, whom a newsletter called Whale Hunting has accused of facilitating money laundering and transnational scam operations (archived here and here). Opposition lawmakers questioned whether Mauerberger's access to elite circles helped shield him from prosecution, but Anutin denied any connection with the businessman and said the encounters were incidental (archived here and here). Advertisement Advertisement Mauerberger denied the allegations against him and dismissed them as "fiction created with the sole intention of destroying" him and his family (archived link). He has taken legal action against a Thai opposition MP and a journalist behind the Whale Hunting newsletter (archived here and here). Other Facebook and TikTok posts shared the image of Anutin and Mauerberger alongside captions suggesting the two have long been in contact. However, the image contains visual irregularities indicative of AI generation, including a wine glass whose stem appears slightly bent and a spoon that seems to disappear into the table's surface. Screenshots of the AI-generated image, with visual clues magnified by AFP AFP ran the image through Googles SynthID detector, a tool designed to identify AI-generated content (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement The system indicated with a "Very High" confidence that the image was created using Googles AI tools. Screenshot of the SynthID Detector's results, which shows it has "Very High" confidence the image was created with the help of Google's AI tools Anutin publicly denied the photo's authenticity hours after it surfaced online (archived link). "I can assuredly say it's an AI photo," Anutin said on February 7, 2026 at the Bhumjaithai headquarters in Bangkok. Anutin added that if the timestamp were accurate, the image was taken in 2005 -- more than 20 years ago -- when he would "look much younger." The genuine photos of Anutin with Mauerberger that were leaked in December were taken in 2014. The Thai leader said he only had a "brief conversation" with the businessman and later exchanged greetings with him at social events. AFP has previously debunked other misinformation related to polls in Thailand and offers an online course on tackling election misinformation. Indiana lawmakers are advancing legislation to address some of the circumstances surrounding the death of Fishers teen Hailey Buzbee, including reviving language that would require parental consent for young people to have social media. "This is a different world, and one that we're all adapting to," House Speaker Todd Huston said Feb. 9. "I think we're in a world where this is always going to be looked at every session." The 17-year-old Hamilton Southeastern High School student had been missing for nearly a month before police announced they believed her to be dead. She left home on Jan. 5 allegedly with a 39-year-old man they believe she met through online gaming. The man, Tyler Thomas, is charged in Ohio with pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor and tampering with evidence. Ohio search warrants related to Thomas reveal that he had been talking with Buzbee online for more than a year. Advertisement Advertisement Her family, as well as Gov. Mike Braun, have been advocating for changes to state law that would include a "Pink Alert" system a way to address a gap in the state's current emergency alert system for missing people to include situations where there are signs of grooming or other coercive behavior. A petition calling for such changes, as well as online grooming education in Indiana schools, has amassed more than 100,000 signatures. Braun has also called for action to protect kids on social media. Huston and Statehouse lawmakers representing Fishers announced some new language Feb. 9 that take small steps toward these goals. Hailey Buzbees stepmother Ronya Buzbee (left) and father Beau Buzbee stand during a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Chris Jeter, R-Fishers, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Sen. Kyle Walker, R-Lawrence, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, D-Fishers, (left) shows off her pink nail polish she wore in Hailey Buzbees honor to her stepmother Ronya Buzbee (center) and father Beau Buzbee during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana state Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, D-Fishers, speaks during a press conference on legislative efforts following the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston (right) shakes hands with Hailey Buzbees father Beau Buzbee following a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Indiana lawmakers speak on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbee's death 1 of 7 Hailey Buzbees stepmother Ronya Buzbee (left) and father Beau Buzbee stand during a press conference on legislative efforts following Hailey Buzbees death Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. Hailey Buzbee died after leaving her home Jan. 6 with a 39-year-old man she met while online gaming. Social media restrictions On the social media front, Buzbee's alleged luring and death prompted lawmakers to revive some old language that had been stripped from Senate Bill 199 previously, but with some changes. The language under debate now would require social media companies to use "commercially reasonable means" to determine the age of a person requesting to make an account, and then require parental consent if the request comes from someone under the age of 16. Advertisement Advertisement Social media companies would then have to add a number of limitations to that adolescent's account: They cannot receive direct messages from or appear in search results from people they don't follow, they can't be subject to targeted advertising that's based on their activity on the platform, and their parent will have access to monitor how much time they are spending on the platform and set limits. Buzbee's father Beau came to the House chamber Feb. 9 to testify in support of the language. "I beg of you, please do not let this opportunity slip away," he said. The decisions that you are considering today have the power to save childrens lives. Pink Alerts On the Pink Alert front, Fishers Republican Rep. Chris Jeter said he'll be adding language to House Bill 1303 on Feb. 10 to expand the factors law enforcement can consider when sending alerts for missing children. Advertisement Advertisement Buzbee's disappearance wasn't alerted because she was initially considered a runaway, and did not fall under the definition necessitating an Amber alert. But the language Jeter is proposing would add a number of circumstances to the definition of a "missing" child that would trigger an alert: such as, if officials believe the child's disappearance occurred under "inherently dangerous" circumstances. "This is part of a much larger effort that we'll engage in over the next year to make sure that our endangerment and child welfare laws are updated to reflect the impact of social media and online sites to child welfare," Jeter said. More: Who was Hailey Buzbee? 'Vibrant... kind' with passion for journalism It's not quite the "Pink alert" advocates are pushing for, but Huston said he expects to prop up a committee over the summer to study a more comprehensive reform to the overall alert system. There's a balance to consider against overwhelming the system with too many alerts, which runs the risk of lowering the community's sensitivity to them, he said. But this language is one short-term step. Advertisement Advertisement "I think the first thing is to make sure that they can offer alerts when they feel like it's this necessary, when there's endangerment, and as quickly as possible," he said of the language being introduced Feb. 10. Legislative leaders have also discussed with Education Secretary Katie Jenner ways that grooming awareness could be incorporated into health standards for K-12 students, Huston said. Breaking politics reporter Marissa Meador contributed reporting. Contact IndyStar Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on X @kayla_dwyer17. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Lawmakers propose Hailey Buzbee-inspired social media use restrictions JAKARTA, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has been invited to the United States on February 19 to attend a meeting about President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, an official said on Monday. Indonesia also hoped to sign a trade deal with Trump during the trip, Presidential spokesperson Prasetyo Hadi said (Reporting by Stefanno Sulaiman, Ananda Teresia; Editing by Martin Petty) Three Indiana Senate seats that represent portions of Indianapolis and its neighboring communities are up for grabs,with no incumbents running in this years election, and the filing deadline for candidates vying to fill the seats has now passed. The primary election is scheduled for May 5 in Indiana, with the general election scheduled for Nov. 3. The current state senators representing District 29, District 31 and District 46 have all already announced they will not be running for reelection in 2026. Heres who is running in each district. District 29 Indiana state Sen. J.D. Ford, D-Indianapolis, speaks during the annual LGBTQ+ Statehouse Day on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse. The event comes one day after the Indiana Senate passed Senate Bill 182, which would bar individuals from using a bathroom that does not match their sex assigned at birth. Democratic Sen. J.D. Ford was elected to the District 29 seat in 2018, but he announced he is running for Congress instead of for reelection to the state Senate. Advertisement Advertisement District 29 includes portions of Carmel, Zionsville and Pike and Wayne Townships in Marion County. Heres who filed to run for the seat: Rev. David W. Greene, Sr. (Democrat): Longtime Indianapolis pastor and community advocate Demetrice Hicks (Democrat): President of the Pike Township Board and clinical director Kristina Moorhead (Democrat): Former deputy director of the Indiana Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning and health advocate Kevin Short (Democrat): Healthcare worker and former candidate for Indiana House District 40 V. Roni Ford (Republican): Former regional deputy director with U.S. Sen. Todd Youngs office and former Metropolitan School District of Pike Township Board of Education member John Ruckelshaus (Republican): Former senator for state Senate District 30 from 2017 to 2021 Mike Delph (Republican): Former senator for state Senate District 29 from 2005 to 2019 District 31 Sen. Kyle Walker, R-Lawerence, talks with colleagues on Thursday, April 24, 2025, during the legislative session at the Indiana State Capitol in Indianapolis. Republican Sen. Kyle Walker, who was elected in 2020, announced in December he was not seeking reelection. The district includes Fishers and northeast Marion County, including Lawrence. More: With 3 open Indianapolis Senate seats, is there opportunity for Democrats? Advertisement Advertisement Heres who filed to run for the seat: Kerry Forestal (Democrat): Marion County sheriff since 2019 Lasima O. Packett (Democrat): Veteran and community advocate Catherine Torzewski (Democrat): Real estate broker and former campaign manager Andrew Dezelan (Democrat): Insurance broker and consultant and former Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus policy director Juanita Albright (Republican): Member of the Hamilton Southeastern School Board and medical doctor Tiffanie Ditlevson (Republican): Fishers city councilor and veteran Travis Hankins (Republican): Tech industry worker and former candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives Jan Kepley Keefer (Republican): Family law attorney District 46 Sen. Andrea Hunley speaks during a Rally to Protect Trans Youth organized by the ACLU of Indiana on Saturday, April 1, 2023, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Democratic Sen. Andrea Hunley was elected to the seat in 2022. The district encompasses portions of the City of Indianapolis, including downtown Indianapolis, Irvington, Fountain Square, Garfield Park, Warren Park, and parts of Center, Wayne, Warren, and Perry townships. More: Andrea Hunley, eyeing run for Indianapolis mayor, won't seek Senate reelection Advertisement Advertisement Hunley is weighing a run for Indianapolis mayor and announced she would not seek reelection to the Indiana Senate. Heres who filed to run for the seat: Allissa Impink (Democrat): First-term Indianapolis Public Schools board member and former educator Clif Marsiglio (Democrat): Former candidate for mayor of Indianapolis, activist and works in higher education Sam Glynn (Democrat): IndyStar has been unable to find biographical information on this candidate Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @Jake_Allen19. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indy has 3 open State Senate seats. Here's who is running Prosecutors indicted two Jerusalem brothers in their 20s for security offenses, including contact with Iranian intelligence and transferring sensitive information. The State Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment against two Jerusalem brothers in their 20s who committed security offenses, including contact with Iranian intelligence elements, the office stated on Monday. One of the brothers, with assistance from the other, was in contact with Iranian intelligence elements and was transferring various information related to national security, the indictment read. Advertisement Advertisement The two brothers were aware that they were acting under the direction of Iranian intelligence handlers in exchange for financial compensation, the indictment added. Other offenses the two suspects were indicted for include delivering information to the enemy, both alone and jointly, and delivering information to an enemy that could be used to benefit them against Israel's national security. The prosecution requested an extension of their detention until the legal proceedings could be completed. The silhouette of a man, seen over the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran (illustrative) (credit: SHUTTERSTOCK) The indictment did not specify whether the brothers were Jewish or Arab. Not an isolated incident: Shin Bet notes at least 25 Israelis indicted for spying for Iran in 2025 Last month, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) noted that 25 Israelis, including Jews, were indicted for spying for Iran throughout 2025. Advertisement Advertisement The number of Iranian plots to use Israelis as spies jumped 400% in 2025 compared with 2024, which also had increased 400% compared with 2023 and earlier years, Shin Bet said in its annual report. Last year, 120 separate Iranian spying incidents were thwarted, the report said. This included an IDF soldier from the Givati Brigade, who was arrested in September under suspicion of spying for Iran. They were alleged to have been in contact with Iranian intelligence forces since sometime in July 2025, and to have carried out tasks for them in exchange for financial compensation. These tasks included sending photos and videos of important sites in Israel, including from within army bases, as well as information on weapons and armaments used by the IDF. Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Elimelech Stern was sentenced to three years in prison by the Jerusalem District Court for maintaining contact with an Iranian intelligence operative and conspiring to issue threats. Yonah Jeremy Bob, Sarah Ben-Nun, Goldie Katz, and Tzvi Jasper contributed to this report. The crucial votes to fund the government last week were brokered in Speaker Mike Johnson's ceremonial office just off the House floor. But the groundwork to get the $1.6 trillion spending package through the chamber was laid in a literal smoke-filled room just steps away. That would be the domain of Rep. Tom Cole, the 76-year-old cigar-and-whiskey-loving chair of the House Appropriations Committee. Inside that haunt, the Oklahoman took an unabashedly old-school approach over the course of months to getting the congressional funding process unstuck after a record-long, 43-day shutdown last year. Thats not actually an office its a smoke room, said Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), a regular in what some members cheekily call the Cigar SCIF, a play on the sensitive compartmented information facilities where government officials review state secrets. Advertisement Advertisement Inside, Cole doesn't dazzle you with numbers, he works on people-to-people skills, Issa said, and it's the reason we've gotten something done. Thats something of a miracle considering who Cole is and what his colleagues have demanded. When Cole took the Appropriations gavel in the spring of 2024, conservative demands for spending reductions were mounting. Hard-liners citing unfulfilled promises of funding cuts had ousted Kevin McCarthy, a close Cole ally, from the speakership just six months earlier. Months later, Donald Trump was elected to a second term as president and immediately began freezing billions of dollars top appropriators had already fastidiously allocated. We often joke: Boy, did we get here at a bad time, Cole said in an interview, describing the situation he and Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) confronted. Advertisement Advertisement While the politics of government spending grew stormy as 2025 wore on, Cole and his allies were biding their time and working puff by puff and sip by sip to build support for the government funding bills he was quietly negotiating with his counterparts across the aisle and across the Capitol. Matters came to a head in the weeks after the longest shutdown in U.S. history concluded in November. Fiscal conservatives in the House were threatening to block passage of the bills Cole had helped craft demanding changes to legislation that had already been settled with Democrats. In early January, with tensions high and the chances for another lengthy shutdown rising, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) entered Coles office off the House floor. He emerged more than an hour later and gave Cole his public blessing to proceed with what appropriators had negotiated, a key vote of confidence from the GOP leadership. The bills are being built by the Appropriations Committee in the House and the Senate, Emmer said. Tom Cole and his colleagues on the Appropriations Committee are doing excellent work. Advertisement Advertisement House hard-liners, who were eyeing massive cuts to member-requested earmarks, didnt secure any further changes to the funding bills. Now eleven of the 12 annual measures have been signed into law, guaranteeing cash through September for every federal agency except the embattled Department of Homeland Security. Along the way Cole has won grudging respect from those same hard-liners, who give him credit for negotiating relatively flat overall funding levels and for trying to return the House to its traditional process of debating the 12 bills individually instead of as a catchall omnibus package. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, Republican Rep. Scott Perry said of Cole in an interview. "Of course he listens. He listens because he has to listen we have votes. Cole is a big reason, the Pennsylvania conservative continued, that the House is crawling out of this hole of just go along to get along in Washington, D.C. Space is a great gift While Freedom Caucus types like Perry tend not to be denizens of Coles tobacco-scented inner sanctum, a wide variety of members are often seen slipping in and out. Advertisement Advertisement Alongside top Republican appropriators like California Rep. Ken Calvert are some GOP lawmakers who dont sit on the spending panel, among them Reps. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, Andrew Garbarino of New York and Don Bacon of Nebraska. Some Democrats, including California Rep. Jimmy Panetta, are known to drop in. I've learned more in that room than anywhere else in Congress about how things operate, said Rep. Mark Alford, a second-term GOP congressman from Missouri who coined the Cigar SCIF moniker. But it's just good to have a place to have honest conversations and develop friendships. A grand photo of Coles great aunt, a famous Chickasaw storyteller known as Te Ata, is mounted beside a window overlooking the west front of the Capitol and the National Mall. Most days in winter, a fire burns in a black marble fireplace. I think space is a great gift, and I think it's misused quite often, Cole said. These are grand settings. They're lovely rooms. They're obviously immediately adjacent to the floor. You can't have much better real estate than that. Advertisement Advertisement Engraved on one chair is the name of Rep. Hal Rogers, the longest-serving House member and a former Appropriations chair. The 88-year-old Kentucky Republican is often by Coles side during House votes and spends hours each week in the room off the floor, which Rogers said wasnt used as an open forum until Cole got the gavel. When Nebraska GOP Rep. Mike Flood more than 25 years Coles junior came to Capitol Hill in 2022, he sought Coles guidance on how to get on the Financial Services Committee. He got an invitation to another one of Coles smoke-filled offices this one upstairs, next to the Rules Committee hearing room where Cole was then serving as chair and received an education on Congress from Cole and four other guys north of 75. The people who don't avail themselves of that have a much different experience in Congress, Flood said in an interview, because they're not learning the Congress as an institution, as a functioning way to make laws and govern Americans. Cole likes to be regarded as an institutionalist and a practical politician. He holds a masters degree from Yale and a doctorate from the University of Oklahoma both in British history and is an avid reader of nonfiction accounts of war and politics. He was a member of the Oklahoma Senate in the 1980s, ran the National Republican Congressional Committee in the 1990s, served as Oklahoma secretary of state and then came to Congress in 2003. Advertisement Advertisement Experience, knowledge, temperament and persistence he has it all in spades, said Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), a senior appropriator and one of Coles closest friends. The cigar does not hurt. Beyond the House Last March, Cole joined with House GOP leaders to halt bipartisan negotiations with Democrats and instead advanced a six-month funding patch an audacious move that spurred Democratic fury and fueled the government shutdown this past fall. The Democrats just didn't think we could do it, Cole said. I think thats what made the 12 bills possible this year. They know we can do it. They know we will. Even as Trump directly undermines Congress power to steer funding, Cole frequently praises the president in the first lines of any speech or statement celebrating a spending deal. He also was among the Republicans who voted Jan. 6, 2021, against certifying Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election, saying in a statement at the time that he did so on behalf of my constituents." Advertisement Advertisement I look on the administration as allies, not as enemies. But I also recognize that they can't just do what they want to do, Cole said this year. Anybody that thinks that Congress has somehow lost its power of the purse it has not. As Congress stares down another partial government shutdown over DHS funding, Cole is deferring to the White House in negotiations with Democrats who are demanding changes to the administrations immigration enforcement tactics. Clearly the decision is going to be made by the president on this, he said. Cole also doesnt meddle in the negotiations of his cardinals, the dozen lawmakers who chair his panels subcommittees, empowering each of them to resolve differences with Democrats on their own. Advertisement Advertisement His word is gold, said Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), one of those chairs. He's infinitely fair, infinitely reasonable. He is so well attuned to working with people. Cole instead focuses on negotiating overall totals and tricky policy disputes with Congress other three top appropriators: Collins, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.). None of those women smoke cigars, and they prefer to meet in Collins less-odorous office on the Senate side. But they all have a close relationship with Cole. Murray and Cole go back years: They faced off in negotiations over health, education and labor funding as subcommittee chairs during Paul Ryans speakership. Cole described the Washington Democrat as a candid politician who is steely in her resolve but wants to get to a deal. Advertisement Advertisement Cole said Collins reminds him of his mother, who was the first Native American woman to serve in the Oklahoma Senate. Her political skills are formidable, he said, and she's a hard person not to like. As for his Democratic counterpart in the House, Cole calls DeLauro one of his favorite people in Congress and describes her as an Italian grandmother. The respect is mutual. You make a lot of acquaintances in this business, but you have few friends, DeLauro said in an interview. Tom Cole is my friend. That relationship was built not only through years of hard-nosed negotiations but also gentler moments like a 2024 Middle East trip the pair took as part of a bipartisan delegation of appropriators. Im going to drink all the bourbon with you that I can, she recalled telling him. On the other hand, Im not smoking any cigars. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misstated the year of a congressional delegation trip to the Middle East. It was in 2024. Oregon's natural beauty, like Sahalie Falls in the Willamette National Forest, attracts visitors to the state. (Photo by Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Its clear Oregons economy is top of mind for Oregonians and our elected officials as we rev into 2026. It seems like we get a new economic forecast or assessment every day, or an announcement of a new report outlining steps the state should take to improve our economy. And, with election season ramping up, we can expect our airwaves to be filled with campaign ads promising plans to revive our economy and attract more visitors and residents. Regardless of the economic outlook, one thing we can all agree on is that Oregons natural environment is a competitive advantage as compared to other states. Lets think about it. In Oregon, a single days drive can take you from wind-carved beaches to snow-capped volcanoes and across the high desert beyond. Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Tina Kotek recently highlighted the states natural beauty, referred to as our paycheck to attract visitors and future residents to our state, in her Oregons Prosperity Roadmap. There, she says, our exceptional quality of life, marked by clean air, abundant fresh water, and a stunning natural environment, makes it not only a smart place to do business but also a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. Its no surprise, therefore, that Oregons tourism boards consistently highlight our lush forests and towering waterfalls on Instagram, the preferred medium for travel lovers, where there too the governor recently highlighted the states incredible nature as reason people are moving to our state. Theres no arguing the importance of the environment to Oregons economy. According to a 2024 report , Oregons outdoor recreation generated $16 billion in consumer spending and 192,000 full and part-time jobs. These benefits are felt throughout the state. Take, for example, Coos, Lane and Lincoln counties, which have the highest percentage of the labor force employed by outdoor recreation spending and lead the state in consumer spending by county. There is little to no state investment, however, in preserving our imperiled wildlife and the wild places they call home. As wildlife declines and habitats degrade, the backbone of our economy is threatened. Advertisement Advertisement To grow the economy and attract more visitors, we must reinvest in our natural environment. A group of bipartisan lawmakers has recently reintroduced legislation to do just that: House Bill 4134 proposes to increase our statewide transient lodging tax by 1.25% and use a large portion of those proceeds to provide sustainable investment in our natural environment. This approach builds on the original intent of the lodging tax created in 2003 to boost tourism. A small increase would do the same bring in more visitors and potential residents by investing in the environment that attracts them here in the first place. The ripple effect is that those who visit or move to Oregon will then spend their money at restaurants and shops across the state. And even with a 1.25% increase, Oregon would remain the state with the third lowest tax on lodging in the country, reducing the chances of deterring visitation. Because this is a tax on overnight lodging, it is not a cost-of-living increase for most Oregonians and wouldnt be noticed in our day-to-day lives. And, we also know that similar small increases of the statewide lodging tax did not deter visitors from coming to Oregon, as the number of overnight visitors has grown by more than a third since 2003. HB 4134 also smartly would direct the majority of its proceeds to Oregons Department of Fish and Wildlife, an agency that consistently achieves positive results when given the resources to do so. To strengthen our economy, we need a smart policy that reinvests in our strengths and generates positive economic effects across the state. Reinvesting in our natural environment will achieve those outcomes and should be part of any economic policy moving forward. TUCSON Investigators pulled off a manhole cover, apparently for a septic tank or similar system, at Nancy Guthrie's house on Feb. 8 as they continued pushing for new evidence in her disappearance. Fox News and ABC 15 reporters posted on the investigators' work as the search for the 84-year-old mom of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie stretched into its eighth day with little new information. Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson Angelica Carrillo said she could not confirm details of the activity, adding that detectives and agents were continuing follow-up work and that no information about those efforts was being released because the investigation was active. Advertisement Advertisement The investigation has yielded few publicly disclosed developments since Guthries disappearance more than a week ago. Car after car lined Nancy Guthries street as more than a dozen journalists waited for activity at Guthries home. They huddled under the shade offered by the thin branches of palo verde and mesquite trees in the neighborhood. At the Guthrie family's request, authorities had tightened security at the residence. Sheriffs vehicles sat outside the home throughout the day. At the request of the Guthrie family, PCSD will maintain a presence at Nancy Guthries residence for security, the department said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Sarah Lapidus covers southern Arizona politics and issues for The Arizona Republic. Reach her at sarah.lapidus@gannett.com. Rey Covarrubias Jr. covers business and breaking news for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Email him at: rcovarrubias@azcentral.com, and connect with him on Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) at @ReyCJrAZ. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Investigators open manhole cover as Guthrie search continues Iran stepped up its crackdown on Monday after recent protests, making more arrests while holding the door open to Washington for further nuclear negotiations. The arrests -- including that of Javad Emam, the spokesperson for the main reformist coalition -- came after Iranian and US officials held talks in Oman that both sides painted as positive. On Saturday, Iran heaped more jail time on Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi, and on Monday arrested Hossein Karoubi, the son of prominent dissident Mehdi Karoubi. Advertisement Advertisement Weeks after repressing a wave of protests, one of the greatest challenges to the government since it came to power in the 1979 Islamic revolution, Tehran has taken a two-track approach. It is rounding up and jailing perceived critics, while at the same time pursuing a potential diplomatic opening with US President Donald Trump's administration. A spokesperson for the Reformist Front coalition told local media on Monday that Iran's Revolutionary Guards had arrested the group's spokesman Emam. Emam was one of at least five Reformist Front figures to be detained, as were several activists and filmmakers who co-signed a protest statement. Advertisement Advertisement Iran's government has branded the protests "riots" fuelled by its arch-foes Israel and the United States. - 'Frustrate the enemy' - On Monday, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on the nation to show "resolve" against foreign pressure. "National power is less about missiles and aircraft and more about the will and resolve of the people," Khamenei said, adding: "Show it again and frustrate the enemy." Alongside its defiant pronouncements, Iran has signalled it could come to some kind of deal to dial back its nuclear programme to avoid further conflict with Washington. Advertisement Advertisement The official IRNA news agency reported that Iranian atomic agency chief Mohammad Eslami had said Tehran could dilute its highly-enriched uranium in return for sanctions relief. "In response to a question about the possibility of diluting 60 percent enriched uranium," IRNA reported, Eslami "said this depends on whether all sanctions would be lifted in return". The report did not specify whether such an agreement would include only nuclear sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, or all international economic measures targeting the Islamic republic. Diluting or "downblending" uranium means mixing it with other substances to reduce the enrichment level, so the final product does not exceed a given threshold -- thus extending the amount of time it would take Iran to create sufficient nuclear material for a bomb. Advertisement Advertisement Tehran adamantly insists it has never planned to build a nuclear weapon and that enrichment for civilian research and energy is its sovereign right, but the US, Israel and most Western capitals do not believe this. At the talks in Oman last week, the US and Iran agreed to discuss Tehran's nuclear programme, though Washington and Israel also want to put its ballistic missiles and support for regional militant groups on the agenda. In separate calls with his Egyptian, Saudi and Turkish counterparts, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi "described the talks as a good start while emphasising the need to dispel mistrust about the American side's intentions and objectives", state television reported. - Crackdown continues - Advertisement Advertisement While Trump had initially threatened to intervene over Iran's repression of last month's protests, since the latest talks began, the United States has not given any sign that the crackdown on Tehran's domestic critics is a major concern. On Saturday, Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi was sentenced to six years in prison on charges of harming national security. She was also given a one-and-a-half year prison sentence for "propaganda" against Iran's Islamic system, her foundation said in a statement. Already incarcerated for much of the past decade as a result of her campaigning against capital punishment and the mandatory dress code for women, she now faces up to 17 more years behind bars and 154 lashes. Advertisement Advertisement The arrest of Reformist Front spokesman Emam followed those on Sunday of three other figures, including Azar Mansouri, who has led the coalition since 2023. Another reformist lawmaker was arrested on Monday. The reformist camp largely backed incumbent president Masoud Pezeshkian in the 2024 presidential election. Separately, Hussein Karoubi was also picked up. Karoubi's father Mehdi Karoubi was a figure in the 2009 Green movement protests and has been under house arrest more or less ever since. The authorities in Iran have acknowledged that 3,117 people were killed during the protests, publishing a list of 2,986 names, most of whom they say were members of the security forces and innocent bystanders. Advertisement Advertisement International organisations have put the toll far higher. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency says it has verified 6,964 deaths, mostly protesters, and has another 11,730 cases under investigation. It has also counted more than 51,000 arrests. bur/dcp/smw/abs/mjw Iran During the visit, Larijani will meet with senior Omani officials to discuss the latest regional and international developments and bilateral cooperation at various levels, the report said. Irans Supreme National Security Council Secretary and advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Ali Larijani, will travel to Muscat, Oman, on Tuesday, leading a delegation, state-run Tasnim News Agency reported on Monday. During the visit, Larijani will meet with senior Omani officials to discuss the latest regional and international developments and bilateral cooperation at various levels, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement This comes after last Friday, when US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and US Central Command Commander Adm. Brad Cooper met with Araghchi and other Iranian senior officials in Oman. The first meeting was described as a good meeting, focusing mainly on how the negotiations would be conducted rather than on the core issues themselves, the sources said. The Americans expect the Iranians to come to the next meeting prepared to offer concessions on the nuclear issue and other matters, they added. Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), speaks at the opening of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference at the agency's headquarters in Vienna, Austria, September 15, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/LISA LEUTNER) The Trump administration has told Iran that it expects the Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to arrive at their next meeting with meaningful substance, two people familiar with the matter told The Jerusalem Post on Sunday. Araghchi: Complete halt to uranium enrichment unacceptable to Iran On Sunday, Araghchi said a complete halt to uranium enrichment was absolutely unacceptable to Iran. Advertisement Advertisement The discussions should focus on scenarios in which uranium enrichment continues, alongside assurances that the enrichment is solely for peaceful purposes, he said. Amichai Stein contributed to this report. BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have revealed an action plan to promote the inheritance and development of theatrical arts over the next three years, starting from 2026. According to the plan, efforts will be made to invigorate innovation and creativity in theater, significantly improve the quality of productions, and produce a new batch of outstanding theatrical works. The plan aims to expand the ranks of theater professionals, with a steady emergence of leading young talent. It also emphasizes the establishment of a sound mechanism to support, guide and coordinate theatrical creation, along with a marked improvement in the industry ecosystem. Theater is a stage art that integrates various artistic forms. Promoting its development is important to the inheritance of fine traditional Chinese culture, and to building a country that is leading in socialist culture, authorities told the media. The recommendations for the formulation of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for national economic and social development propose to inspire the cultural creativity of the entire nation and foster a thriving socialist culture. To further improve the industry's ecosystem and promote its high-quality development, the action plan puts forward 24 supportive measures, including those to develop theater troupes, enhance the effectiveness of production evaluation and funding support, strengthen the inheritance of theatrical arts, and promote public outreach. It encourages theaters to establish creative studios to craft quality works based on their own artistic characteristics and styles. On fostering theater professionals, it specifically highlights the importance of inheritors of rare or endangered dramatic genres. Greater efforts will also be made to improve education in the field, strengthening disciplines and majors related to screenwriting, directing, music, performance, stage design, management, and other areas. To expand the appeal and reach of theatrical productions, the plan calls on theaters and theatrical troupes to give full play to the internet and AI technologies while regulating their online performance and livestreaming activities. The plan was jointly issued by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles. Syrian security forces take control of Al-Hol camp in the desert region of Hasakeh Province, Syria, on January 21, 2026 (photo credit: Rami Alsayed/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Iraq is taking in thousands of ISIS prisoners from Syria, raising concerns over security in border provinces and testing the countrys ability to contain militant threats. Iraq is taking in thousands of ISIS prisoners as part of a US Central Command initiative to move them from Syria to Iraq. In January, after clashes between the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian Transitional Government, the United States decided to transfer up to 7,000 ISIS detainees to Iraq. These included hardened ISIS male fighters, among other suspects. Advertisement Advertisement They are some of the 30,000 or more ISIS members captured back in 2019 when ISIS was largely defeated in Iraq. Many of those were women and children, all from approximately 60 countries. Over the years, some were repatriated, while others remained in Syria. The US appears to be concentrating on moving the male prisoners. Some of the women and children are Syrians and can remain in Syria, where the government would likely prefer to integrate the families back into society. According to reports, around 2,200 male prisoners have already been transferred to Iraq. US Central Command said in a January 21 statement that it had launched a new mission to transfer ISIS detainees from northeastern Syria to Iraq, Jan. 21, to help ensure the terrorists remain in secure detention facilities. Syrian security forces take control of Al-Hol camp in the desert region of Hasakeh Province, Syria, on January 21, 2026, (credit: Rami Alsayed/NurPhoto via Getty Images) It noted that the transfer mission began while US forces successfully transported 150 ISIS fighters held at a detention facility in Hasakah, Syria, to a secure location in Iraq. Ultimately, up to 7,000 ISIS detainees could be transferred from Syria to Iraqi-controlled facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, said at the time, We are closely coordinating with regional partners, including the Iraqi government, and we sincerely appreciate their role in ensuring the enduring defeat of ISIS. He added, Facilitating the orderly and secure transfer of ISIS detainees is critical to preventing a breakout that would pose a direct threat to the United States and regional security. US-backed transfer moves ISIS fighters to Iraq Videos from Syria show the detainees being transferred to Iraq. This comes as the US is also leaving some bases in Syria. The Arab Weekly noted that Saad Maan, head of information at the Iraqi prime ministers office, declared on Saturday that Iraq has received 2,225 terrorists from the Syrian side by land and air, in coordination with the international coalition, which Washington has led since 2014 to fight ISIS. Advertisement Advertisement A Kurdish military source confirmed the continued transfer of ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq under the protection of the international coalition, the same publication stated. Now, some officials in Iraq are also warning that ISIS threats are increasing in two Iraqi governorates that border Syria. These include Nineveh in northwestern Iraq, as well as Anbar. Anbar is the border area with Syria, where the Euphrates River flows into Iraq at the site of the town of al-Qaim, on the border. This was the site of a major crossing point for many insurgents from Syria in the 2003-2009 era. ISIS also crossed into Iraq from that area from 2013 to 2014. Therefore, it is concerning that Iraq is once again saying that there are challenges there. Advertisement Advertisement According to Rudaw media, Local officials in Iraqs Nineveh and Anbar provinces have warned of increasing activities by Islamic State (ISIS) militants, following two recent suicide attacks in western Iraq. The report quoted Imad Mashaal al-Dulaimi, mayor of Anbars al-Rutbah district, as saying, Anbar is a vast terrain and makes up a third of Iraqs landmass. Recently, ISIS militants activities have increased in the province. The report added that on Saturday, two ISIS militants detonated themselves during a security operation in western Anbar, injuring federal security personnel, according to Iraqs National Security Service (INSS). This is indicative of the need for the ISIS detainees who are being transferred to be secured. Advertisement Advertisement Iraq has demonstrated its ability to secure ISIS detainees since largely defeating the group in 2017. The country has enjoyed US and US-led coalition (made up of some 90 member countries) support in its battle against ISIS. However, Iraq also asked the US to leave its bases in Iraq. In late 2025, most US forces left the Ain Al-Asad base in Iraq, which helps secure Anbar province. Therefore, it is currently unclear whether the US drawdown could affect security. US forces are now concentrated in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, and the US has warned Iraq not to appoint Nouri al-Maliki as prime minister. US President Donald Trump has personally said that Maliki should not be prime minister and warned Iraq will lose US support if he is chosen. Maliki was prime minister in 2014 when ISIS took over part of Iraq, and he has sought a return to office. Iraq had elections in November and has been deadlocked in choosing a new leader. The arrival of the ISIS detainees potentially complicates an already complex situation. In the long history of the United States Marine Corps, certain names carry a gravity that transcends rank, time, and even official recognition. Among those names is Maj. James Capers Jr., a Force Reconnaissance Marine whose actions in Vietnam have been spoken of with reverence for decades. He is widely considered one of the most decorated Marines in history, a combat leader who endured catastrophic wounds while protecting his men and a trailblazer who shattered racial barriers within elite Marine units. Yet, as of early 2026, the nations highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor, remains just beyond his grasp. The effort to award Maj. Capers the Medal of Honor has become one of the most significant ongoing recognition campaigns in modern military history. Supporters argue that his heroism during a 1967 mission in Vietnam clearly meets the standard for the Medal of Honor and that the absence of the award is the result of administrative misfortune rather than a lack of merit. Also Read: Ask a Marine: The inspiring story of the first black man on recruitment posters At the same time, veterans organizations, filmmakers, historians, and fellow Marines continue to amplify Capers story, ensuring his legacy endures, whether or not the medal is ultimately presented. His journey is not simply the story of a single battle or a single award. It is a story about courage, leadership, perseverance, and the enduring effort to honor those who have given everything for their fellow Marines and their country. Now, more than half a century later, Congress is again considering legislation that could finally authorize the award. Phu Loc The events at the center of Capers nomination took place between Mar. 31 and Apr. 3, 1967, near Phu Loc in South Vietnam. At the time, he was leading a nine-man reconnaissance patrol known as Team Broadminded. As part of 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company, the team operated deep behind enemy lines, conducting surveillance and gathering intelligence on enemy movements. Force Recon Marines carried out some of the most dangerous missions of the Vietnam War. Operating in small teams with limited support, they relied on stealth, skill, and extraordinary discipline. Discovery by enemy forces often meant being vastly outnumbered and fighting for survival until their extraction could be arranged. During the mission near Phu Loc, Team Broadminded was ambushed by a large enemy force. The ambush triggered a fierce firefight that quickly turned into a desperate struggle. Capers was struck repeatedly by shrapnel and gunfire. By the end of the engagement, he had sustained 19 wounds, among them was a broken leg. But he refused to relinquish command. Despite his injuries, Capers continued to direct the defense and coordinate support. He called in artillery fire, organized the movement of his Marines, and maintained control of the situation even as his physical condition deteriorated. At one point, as a helicopter attempted to extract the wounded, it struggled to gain altitude under the weight of those aboard. Capers reportedly tried to sacrifice himself by leaving the aircraft to ensure the others could escape. His Marines and the crew refused to leave him behind. Only after every member of his team had been safely evacuated did Capers allow himself to be treated. All of the Marines survived. The story of the mission became legendary within the Force Recon community and across the Marine Corps. For those who served with him, it was a defining example of leadership under fire. Capers (bottom right) with his Marine Corps 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company in Vietnam. (Courtesy of James Capers, Jr.) A Recommendation Lost to Tragedy In the aftermath of the battle, Maj. Gen. Bruno Hochmuth, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Division, intended to recommend Capers for the Medal of Honor. He reportedly interviewed the members of Team Broadminded and concluded that Capers actions met the criteria for the nations highest award for valor. Before the recommendation could be completed and submitted, however, Hochmuth was killed in a helicopter crash. With his death, the process stalled. In the chaos of war and the complexity of military bureaucracy, the recommendation was never finalized. Over time, the absence of completed paperwork and missed deadlines complicated efforts to revisit the case. Capers initially received a Bronze Star with V for valor. Decades later, after renewed advocacy and review, the award was upgraded to the Silver Star in 2010. While significant, many Marines and historians believe the Silver Star does not fully capture the magnitude of his actions during the 1967 mission. Advocates argue that the failure to award the Medal of Honor was not due to a lack of merit but rather to the tragic loss of the commanding general who intended to submit the recommendation. The current legislative effort seeks to correct that oversight by authorizing an exception to the time limits. A Career of Courage and Firsts Capers heroism in Vietnam is only one part of a remarkable career. He is a pioneer who broke barriers within the Marine Corps at a time of significant social change. His achievements helped open doors for future generations of Marines and demonstrated the potential for leadership and excellence across all backgrounds. He became the first Black enlisted Marine to receive a battlefield commission to officer rank, a rare honor reflecting extraordinary leadership in combat. He later became the first Black Marine to command a Force Reconnaissance company, leading one of the Corps most elite units. In 1967, Capers also became the face of a major Marine Corps recruiting campaign aimed at young Black men. The campaign sought to highlight opportunities within the Corps and encourage greater diversity in its ranks. Capers role in the campaign symbolized both his personal achievements and the broader progress taking place within the military. Over the course of his service, Capers participated in more than 50 classified reconnaissance missions and was wounded multiple times. His leadership and operational expertise contributed to the development of tactics and traditions within Marine special operations. In 2010, he was inducted into the U.S. Special Operations Commands Commando Hall of Honor as part of its inaugural class, placing him among the most respected figures in special operations history. (Courtesy of James Capers, Jr.) A Congressional Effort Renewed The latest push to award Capers the Medal of Honor reached a pivotal moment on February 3, 2026. On that day, the United States House of Representatives passed H.R. 3377, legislation introduced by Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina. The bill seeks to authorize President Trump to award the Medal of Honor to Capers by waiving the statutory time limit that normally governs such decorations. Under current law, Medal of Honor recommendations must typically be made within five years of the actions in question. That deadline passed long ago in Capers case, not because his actions were overlooked at the time but because of a tragic chain of events that prevented the recommendation from moving forward through official channels. The Houses passage of H.R. 3377 represents a major step in addressing that historical gap. Advertisement Advertisement The legislation now awaits consideration in the Senate. If approved and signed into law, it would allow the president to present the Medal of Honor to Capers more than five decades after the mission that defined his legacy. For many of his fellow Marines and supporters, the goal is not only to secure the award but to do so while Capers is still alive to receive it. The congressional effort reflects a broader recognition that the military awards process, while rigorous, is not infallible. Over the years, Congress has occasionally intervened to waive time limits when compelling evidence demonstrates that an act of valor deserving of the Medal of Honor was not fully recognized due to administrative errors or extraordinary circumstances. Supporters of Capers believe his case falls squarely into that category. The Meaning of Recognition The campaign to award Capers the Medal of Honor raises broader questions about how nations recognize acts of extraordinary valor. While awards and decorations are important symbols, they also carry historical weight. They shape how future generations understand the sacrifices made by those who served. For supporters of Capers, the Medal of Honor is not merely a personal accolade but a way to ensure that the historical record accurately reflects what happened in 1967. They argue that recognizing his actions would honor not only him but also the Marines who fought alongside him and the generations who have drawn inspiration from his example. At the same time, his story demonstrates that recognition can take many forms. Through congressional action, nonprofit advocacy, and documentary storytelling, the effort to honor Capers has brought together a diverse coalition of supporters. Their work reflects a shared belief that acts of extraordinary courage should never be forgotten. (Courtesy of James Capers, Jr.) Beyond the Battlefield As the effort to award the Medal of Honor continues, numerous organizations and individuals have played a critical role in keeping Maj. Capers story in the public eye. United American Patriots, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting U.S. service members and veterans, has been at the forefront of the campaign. Led by retired Marine Lt. Col. David Bull Gurfein, the organization has worked to raise awareness, gather documentation, and build congressional support for the Medal of Honor effort. Through petitions, public outreach, and direct engagement with lawmakers, United American Patriots has helped ensure that Capers case remains a national conversation. Advertisement Advertisement The BLKOPS Foundation has also been instrumental in amplifying Capers story. Focused on preserving and sharing the histories of service members in special operations forces, the foundation has organized events, educational initiatives, and media projects highlighting his legacy. Team Capers, led by Robert L. Zackery III, has been central to these efforts, bringing together veterans, historians, and supporters committed to honoring Capers contributions. One of the most visible outcomes of this work is the documentary film Iron Major, available through Amazon as part of the BLK OPS series. The film explores Capers life from his early years through his service in Vietnam and the ongoing campaign for the Medal of Honor. By presenting his story through film, the documentary has introduced his legacy to a wider audience and helped generate public support for recognition. Honoring a Living Legend Even without the Medal of Honor, Capers has received numerous honors. In 2026, he was selected as a national representative for the Purple Heart Patriot Project, an initiative recognizing wounded veterans and their continued contributions. The selection reflects both his wartime sacrifices and his ongoing role as a mentor and symbol of resilience. Advertisement Advertisement For younger Marines and service members, he represents a living connection to the history and traditions of the Corps. His willingness to share his experiences and mentor future generations has ensured that his influence extends far beyond his time in uniform. Within the Marine Corps and special operations community, his reputation is already secure. Stories of the mission near Phu Loc are taught and retold as examples of leadership and sacrifice. His career serves as a reminder of the values that define the Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. (Courtesy of James Capers, Jr.) Whether the Medal of Honor is ultimately awarded or not, Capers place in Marine Corps history is secure. He is remembered as a leader who refused to abandon his men, a pioneer who broke barriers, and a mentor who has inspired generations. His story is a testament to the Marine Corps values and the enduring importance of honoring those who have given everything for their fellow Marines and their country. Dont Miss the Best of We Are The Mighty james capers medal of honor ethan rocke Medal of Honor The Iron Major: James Capers Jr.s long road to the Medal of Honor By Daniel Tobias Flint Joe Foss Guadalcanal Medal of Honor This Medal of Honor recipient came up with the idea for the Super Bowl By Stephen Ruiz Barack Obama Medal of Honor Advertisement Advertisement Medal of Honor Heres how the Medal of Honor, the militarys highest award, is made By Tim Kirkpatrick LBJ Dwight Johnson Medal of Honor ceremony Medal of Honor The Vietnam tank driver who ran into a burning tank to pull his friends out By Stephen Ruiz Greely expedition survivors Medal of Honor This Civil War veteran nearly died while exploring the Arctic By Stephen Ruiz The prime minister spoke at the signing of the MOU about the alliance between the two countries: AI, as you know, is Azerbaijan-Israel. AI is also AI, artificial intelligence." Israel and Azerbaijan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on AI at the Prime Ministers Office in Jerusalem on Tuesday. In the presence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Head of the National Artificial Intelligence Directorate, Brig.-Gen. Erez Askal, the Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport, and Rashad Nabiyev signed the declaration, which aims to bolster the two countries ongoing alliance through Artificial Intelligence (AI). Advertisement Advertisement The MOU is considered the next step in advancing Israel toward global leadership in AI, one of Netanyahu's flagship goals. It comes shortly after the signing of a joint declaration with the US in this field. The partnership between Israel and Azerbaijan intends to address infrastructure for supercomputing, the implementation of AI in civilian sectors, human capital, and joint research. Netanyahu jokes AI stands for 'Azerbaijan-Israel' The prime minister spoke at the signing of the MOU, about the alliance between the two countries: AI, as you know, is Azerbaijan-Israel. AI is also AI, artificial intelligence, and we're wedding the two things. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at the signing of an MOU on artificial intelligence between Israel and Azerbaijan, February 3, 2026. (credit: HAIM ZACH/GPO) He explained the importance of AI in the future of technological advancements, saying, It is now time to seize the future. The future is already here. AI is not the instrument of the future; it's the instrument of the present that is rushing towards tomorrow. We have to make sure that we are among the leading nations in this field. And I think that we can do a lot more and a lot better together. Advertisement Advertisement Askal also spoke about the importance of collaboration between Israel and Azerbaijan, saying the State of Israel and the Republic of Azerbaijan share extensive cooperation based on mutual appreciation and trust, as well as shared challenges. Cooperation on AI is an important additional layer between our countries, as it marks the future of two nations with unique challenges. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defined AI as a field in which Israel will be a global leader, and we intend to meet that goal." Why sign the MOU now? Signing the MOU now is an important step in collaboration with the Islamic world. Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country, located next to Iran, and as tensions between Iran and Israel increase, an improving alliance with Azerbaijan is a positive step. Israel and Azerbaijan have had positive diplomatic relations since Azerbaijan achieved independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Advertisement Advertisement Gila Gamliel, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, said on X that This is a significant milestone and a step up in the deep relations between Israel and Azerbaijan. Another important step in establishing the scientific and national resilience of the State of Israel. The relationship between the two countries has been improving dramatically over the last few years. In 2023, Azerbaijan opened its embassy in Israel, marking a positive shift in diplomatic ties. Defense and intelligence, which AI comes under, is a cornerstone of the partnership. Israel supplies advanced weaponry to Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijan provides Israel with strategic intelligence sharing. This MOU will help both countries advance their development and implementation of AI-based tools in real-world sectors. BEIRUT, Lebanon, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- An Israeli force early Monday kidnapped an official with the "Jamaa al Islamiya," a Lebanese Sunni group and an ally of the Palestinian militant movement Hamas, while three people, including a child, were killed in separate Israeli attacks. Israeli soldiers infiltrated the village of Hebbariyeh in southern Lebanon about 3 miles north of the Israeli border shortly after midnight and "abducted" the group's official, Atwi Atwi, from his home, according to a statement by "Jamaa al Islamiya." The statement said Atwi was taken to "an unknown location after his family was terrorized and assaulted." It condemned the kidnapping and held the Israeli occupying forces responsible for his safety. Advertisement Advertisement The group said the abduction was part of a campaign to "terrorize local residents and force them to abandon their villages and land," and called for Atwi's release. An Israeli Army spokesman confirmed that Israeli soldiers carried out an intelligence-led raid on a building inside Lebanese territory, and arrested a senior Jamaa Islamiya official, who was taken to Israel for "further questioning." According to Israeli English-language websites, the Army spokesman said that weapons and combat equipment were seized at the site. They also quoted Israeli security and military officials as saying the decision to capture Atwi, rather than target him in a strike, "stemmed from the significant intelligence value expected from his interrogation, including information related to Hezbollah" and to gather intelligence on the group's activities in Lebanon and Syria. Advertisement Advertisement The raid, they said, was wrapped up early Monday morning, and there were no reports of clashes during the operation. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who inspected villages in southern Lebanon over the weekend, condemned Atwi's abduction as "a blatant violation of Lebanon's sovereignty" and a breach of the Nov. 27, 2024, cease-fire agreement brokered by the United States and France to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Salam tasked the Lebanese Foreign Ministry with taking immediate action through the United Nations and called for the release of all Lebanese detainees held by Israel. Atwi's kidnapping raises the total number of Lebanese held by Israel to 24, including 20 captured during the Hezbollah-Israel war and after the truce agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Three people, including a child, were also killed Monday in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a van in the southern village of Yanouh, in the Tyre district, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The Israeli army confirmed the attack in Yanouh, saying it killed Ahmad Ali Salami, Hezbollah's artillery commander, who had recently been working "to rebuild the group's artillery capabilities." The army added that it was investigating the incident after reports of civilian casualties in Lebanon. Since the 2024 cease-fire, Israel has operated with near-total freedom in Lebanon, continuing strikes on alleged Hezbollah sites and arms depots and killing suspected Hezbollah operatives. It also refused to withdraw from five strategic positions in south Lebanon, release Lebanese prisoners and blocked displaced prisoners from returning to their largely destroyed villages. Advertisement Advertisement The Iran-backed group, severely weakened during the war that erupted after it opened a support front for Gaza on Oct. 8, 2023, has kept a low profile and refrained from retaliating while the Lebanese Army took control of the area south of the Litani River. As it quietly attempts to reorganize its ranks and secure new channels for rearming and funding, Hezbollah has refused to fully disarm as long as Israel does not abide by the truce accord. The regime does not want to capitulate to the United States, but it also seeks to avoid losing power, prompting a bazaar-style negotiation aimed at preserving core assets. The United States intentions toward Iran are still unclear to the Israeli security establishment, even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington this week. Israeli interlocutors said recent discussions with US officials, including envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, showed broad alignment on the problem posed by the Iranian regime, operational targets, and desired outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement While US interests extend beyond Israels, they noted that Israel holds significant intelligence and has recent operational experience from 12 days of fighting directly with Iran and additional strikes inside Iranian territory over the past two years. A limited US move that begins but does not finish would be nearly as damaging as no action at all. In such a scenario, Iran could claim endurance against US and Israeli forces, emerge emboldened, and push a regional agenda of cross-border terror and threats to neighbors oil infrastructure. This could broaden Tehrans geopolitical reach through its network of proxies. Recent signals from regional states underscored the point. Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and even Qatar pressed Washington to prioritize negotiations over strikes, according to the Israeli readout. Advertisement Advertisement However, these appeals likely reflect deep fear of Iranian retaliation and long-running dependence on Tehran-sensitive security calculations, not sympathy for Iran. Iranian leaders assess damage in possible war In Iran, leaders are attempting to size up potential US damage in a war while testing the limits of flexibility in talks. The regime does not want to capitulate to the United States, but it also seeks to avoid losing power, prompting a bazaar-style negotiation aimed at preserving core assets. Some of those assets may already be shifting underground to ensure a rapid post-strike recovery, mirroring methods used by Tehrans proxies. Israel sees Irans proxy doctrine at work, pointing to Hezbollah during the 2006 Lebanon War and Hamas during Operation Protective Edge, where surviving underground infrastructure was cast as victory. A similar approach could allow Tehran to claim success after any limited confrontation. Advertisement Advertisement Israel has conveyed that it is prepared for multiple scenarios and has set a red line on Irans ballistic missile force. It has acted at least three times inside Iran in the past two years and retains that capability, officials noted. The final call, however, lies with the White House and Trump. For now, Israelis say, no one can confidently predict his decision. BEIRUT (AP) Israelis forces seized a local official with a Sunni Islamist group and an ally of the Palestinian militant Hamas group in an operation in southern Lebanon early on Monday, and took him to Israel for questioning, the Israeli military and Lebanese state media reported. Also on Monday, an Israeli drone struck a car in the southern Lebanese village of Yanouh, killing three people, including a 3-year-old child, Lebanons state-run National News Agency said, quoting the Health Ministry. The Israeli military later said it struck Hezbollah artillery official Ahmad Salami. It said it was aware of a claim that uninvolved civilians were killed and that the case is under review. Advertisement Advertisement According to the NNA agency, Atwi Atwi a local official with the Sunni Islamist group al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group in English was taken in the southern village of Hebbarieh, in the region of Hasbaya and close to the border with Israel. A statement from the Israeli military said Israeli troops apprehended an Islamic Group official in a targeted intelligence-based operation. It did not release the official's name. The Islamic Group condemned the seizure, saying it was part of Israels daily attacks and violations of Lebanons sovereignty. It called on the Lebanese state to work for the release of Atwi. The Islamic Group is Lebanon's branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, a pan-Islamist political group, with an armed wing in Lebanon known as Fajr Forces. Advertisement Advertisement After the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, the Fajr Forces joined forces with the Lebanese Shiite militant Hezbollah group, launching rockets across the border into Israel that it said were in support of Hamas in Gaza. The Brotherhood has been outlawed in much of the Middle East and labeled a terror group. Last month, the Trump administration designated the Lebanese, Jordanian and Egyptian branches of the Brotherhood as terrorist organizations. Al-Jamaa al-Islamiya's leader, Mohammed Takkoush, said during the 14-month war between Hezbollah and Israel that his group and Hezbollah put aside their differences on conflicts in Syria and Yemen to join forces against Israel. Hezbollah started attacking Israel on Oct. 8, 2023, a day after Hamas attacked southern Israel, triggering the latest Israel-Hamas war. Israel later launched a widespread bombardment of Lebanon that severely weakened Hezbollah, followed by a ground invasion. Advertisement Advertisement The conflict ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in 2024, and since then, Israel has carried out almost daily airstrikes and ground incursions into Lebanon that left more than 100 civilians dead according to the United Nations. Israel says it's carrying out the operations to remove Hezbollah strongholds and threats against Israel. The Israel-Hezbollah war killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon, including hundreds of civilians, and caused an estimated $11 billion in damage and destruction, according to the World Bank. In Israel, 127 people died, including 80 soldiers. Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited the site of the deadly anti-Semitic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Monday, underscoring solidarity with Australia's Jewish community. Fifteen people were killed and more than 40 injured on December 14 when a father and son opened fire on attendees at a Jewish festival at the famous beach. Herzog arrived in Sydney in the morning and laid a wreath at the site. He and his wife, Michal Herzog, also placed two stones from Jerusalem at a memorial near the historic Bondi Pavilion. Advertisement Advertisement In Jewish tradition, placing stones on graves represents "the endurance of memory, the weight of loss and the unbreakable bond between the living and those we have lost," Herzog said. He added that the stones would serve as a "reminder that the bonds between good people of all faiths and all nations will continue to hold strong in the face of terror, violence and hatred." In a speech, Herzog remembered "fifteen innocent souls who gathered to celebrate Hanukah, the festival of light, [and] were massacred in cold blood," calling anti-Semitism "not a Jewish problem," but a "global emergency." During his multi-day visit, Herzog will meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, members of the Jewish community, survivors and victims' families. He is also scheduled to travel to Canberra and Melbourne. Advertisement Advertisement The visit, conducted under heavy security, has drawn protests in Australia, with critics accusing Israel of human rights violations over the Gaza conflict. A demonstration is planned in central Sydney later on Monday. Australian police have used pepper spray against protesters in Sydney demonstrating against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to the country. A number of people were arrested after scuffles with police officers broke out on Monday. Herzog earlier laid a wreath and two stones from Jerusalem at Bondi Beach, the site of a mass shooting at a Jewish festival in December during which 15 people - including a 10-year-old girl - were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Australia's senior Jewish leaders hope that Herzog's four-day visit will comfort a grieving community, but others have warned he should not have been invited due to allegations he has incited genocide in Gaza - a claim he denies. The demonstration in the centre of Sydney was organised by the Palestine Action Group, despite restrictions on public protest brought in after December's shooting. Just a few days ago, the New South Wales government introduced additional "major event" powers effectively giving police authority to shut down areas of the city, search people and impose fines of up to $5,500 (2,839, US$3,862) for non-compliance. Protest organisers had said the rally would still go ahead, with some 5,000 people expected. Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, crowds gathered in Sydney, many wearing Palestinian headscarves and holding placards. "I'm not anti-semitic, I am anti-genocide," read one poster. "Arrest Herzog," read another. When the peaceful rally ended, protesters started chanting, "Let us march" - but a heavy police presence stopped them. There was growing frustration and the atmosphere became more tense, with pepper spray used to disperse some protesters and police reinforcements also brought in. A protest was also held in Melbourne. Herzog was invited to visit the country by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who said the visit would contribute to social cohesion and a "greater sense of unity" after the Bondi attack. Advertisement Advertisement As he laid a wreath at the site of the mass shooting, Herzog said: "When one Jew is hurt, all Jews feel their pain." He added that he was there to "embrace and console the bereaved families". When asked earlier on about the planned protests, Herzog answered: "I have come here in goodwill and in a message that... Australia and Israel are close friends and allies since the days of old. "These demonstrations in most cases, what you hear and see, comes to undermine and delegitimise our right, my nation's right... of its mere existence and it's contradictory to whatever was said and done by Australia". Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli president will now travel to Canberra and Melbourne, and will also hold talks with Albanese. Thousands of protesters rallied in Sydney amid a heavy police presence [Getty Images] Alex Ryvchin, co-chair executive of Australia's peak Jewish body, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, on Monday said Herzog's visit was warmly welcomed. "For the victim families and for the survivors [of the Bondi attack], it means a great deal," he said. "His visit will lift the spirits of a pained community and we hope will lead to a much-needed recalibration of bilateral relations between two historic allies," he said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Australia last year of having "betrayed Israel" and called Albanese "weak" for recognising Palestine as a state, alongside other countries including the UK and France. Advertisement Advertisement But other groups, including the Jewish Council of Australia (JCA), set up in 2024 to call out antisemitism and support Palestinian freedom, and the Australian National Imams Council, said Herzog should not have been invited. "Inviting a foreign head of state who is implicated in an ongoing genocide as a representative of the Jewish community is deeply offensive and risks entrenching the dangerous and antisemitic conflation between Jewish identity and the actions of the Israeli state," said JCA executive officer Sarah Schwartz last week. "This does not make Jews safer. It does the opposite." On Monday, a letter organised by the JCA and signed by 600 Australian Jews was published in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age, saying Herzog "does not speak for us and is not welcome here". Nasser Mashni, president of the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, said in a post on X the visit was a "very bitter pill to swallow" and a "dark day". Advertisement Advertisement Asked about the planned protests on Sunday, Albanese said "people have a right to express their views. But I do want to make this point - that President Herzog is coming in the context of the devastating antisemitic terrorist attack that occurred at Bondi." A UN commission last year concluded that Herzog was among Israeli leaders who "incited the commission of genocide" against Palestinians in their speeches and statements. It came after Herzog said "it's an entire nation out there that is responsible" for the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, and was also pictured signing a shell to be dropped on Gaza. His comments formed part of the legal case brought by South Africa in the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Herzog has condemned the UN report, which he said took his words out of context, while the Israeli foreign minister called it "distorted and false". Advertisement Advertisement The UN commission said Herzog's later clarification of his statement, that "there are many, many innocent Palestinians who don't agree" with Hamas's actions, was "provided to deflect responsibility for the initial statement". Israel denies it has committed genocide in Gaza. Chris Sidoti, an Australian human rights lawyer and a member of the UN commission that wrote the report, on Thursday called for Herzog to be arrested, arguing the immunity traditionally granted to heads of state should not apply to "atrocity crimes" such as genocide. Some federal MPs had also raised objections to Herzog's visit. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) was pressed by reporters Monday shortly after Epstein conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell pleaded the fifth at her closed-door congressional hearing. Comer met with reporters in a congressional corridor, where a reporter asked, Ghislaine Maxwell, we know from the Epstein files, didnt tell the truth. She got moved to an open prison, now shes asking for clemency to speak at all. Was it a mistake to move her to that prison? Should she be moved back? I dont know the rationale for removing her from one person to the other, Comer answered. But look, initially she had asked that the oversight committee grant immunity, and when we met with the survivors of Epstein, it was pretty clear, according to the survivors and, you know, we had 20-some members in that meeting that Maxwell was a very bad person and she committed a lot of crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Comer continued: And it was the intent, in my opinion, when we left that meeting, in a bipartisan manner that we would not grant immunity. Now, what she said today, she asked for clemency from the president, so, I personally, from the reason you just stated, dont think she should be granted any type of immunity or clemency. But, well obviously, as more documents are read and understood, then well go from there.But, Ill close with this. I think its great that the Department of Justice has has let members of Congress come in and look at all the redacted versions of the documents. Attorney General [Pam] Bondi is doing what she was supposed to do via our subpoena first on the House Oversight Committee, as well as the Epstein Transparency Act. So, I think were finally going to get some answers, and finally, at the end of the day, were goint to do what our objective is in this hearing, provide justice for the survivors. Maxwell, who was sentenced to 20 years for sex trafficking, was moved to a minimum-security Texas prison last July, shortly after meeting with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche and declining to implicate President Donald Trump in Epsteins crimes. Jeffrey Epstein died in his Manhattan jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal counts of sex trafficking some 1,200 girls and women. Watch the clip above via CNN. The post James Comer Trashes Very Bad Person Ghislaine Maxwell for Taking the Fifth first appeared on Mediaite. By Tim Kelly TOKYO, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis thumping election win has blunted domestic opposition to her hawkish security agenda, encouraging plans to press ahead with a defence expansion that China has condemned as a return to militarism. As the scale of her government's historic victory became clear on Sunday capturing 352 of the 465 seats in the lower house Takaichi said she would "work flat out to deliver" an agenda that includes building a military strong enough to deter Chinese threats to its islands, including those close to Taiwan. Advertisement Advertisement In November, Takaichi touched off a diplomatic storm with Beijing by suggesting Japan could respond militarily to any Chinese attack on the democratically governed island if it also threatened Japanese territory. STANDING UP TO CHINA "I expect to see Japan very forward-leaning on defence policy, such as her statements on a Taiwan contingency, said Kevin Maher, a former U.S. diplomat now with NMV Consulting in Washington. One impact could be that President Xi Jinping comes to understand her strong stance, he added. China responded furiously to Takaichi's Taiwan comment, promising to "resolutely prevent the resurgence of Japanese militarism" if Tokyo continued on its "wrong path". Beijing also imposed a series of economic countermeasures including a boycott on travel to Japan and export restrictions on items such as rare earths it says Tokyo could use in military equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Shingo Yamagami, a senior fellow at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and a former Japanese ambassador to Australia, said the "hidden agenda" of the Sunday election was China. "In light of belligerent actions and waves of economic coercion, should Japan acquiesce or stand tall?" he wrote on X. "The Japanese people clearly chose the latter." Taiwans de facto ambassador to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, was among the first foreign dignitaries to congratulate Takaichi, writing on Facebook that her victory showed Japan was not intimidated by Chinas "threats and pressure." China's foreign ministry on Monday again urged Takaichi to withdraw her remarks on Taiwan and said its policy towards Japan would not be changed by one election. Advertisement Advertisement "We urge Japan's ruling authorities to take seriously, rather than ignore, the concerns of the international community, and to pursue the path of peaceful development instead of repeating the mistakes of militarism," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said. Takaichi responded by saying Japan was open to dialogue. "We will respond calmly and appropriately from the standpoint of Japan's national interest," Takaichi said on Monday at her first press conference after the election. SECURITY STRATEGY Takaichi, a fan of Britain's former leader Margaret Thatcher, is already accelerating defence spending to bring it to a record 2% of gross domestic product by the end of March. She has also pledged to ease restrictions on arms exports and allow Japan to pursue joint defence equipment projects with other countries. Advertisement Advertisement Her administration plans to formulate a new national security strategy, likely by year end, that would further accelerate military spending. That could lift defence outlays to around 3% of GDP, an LDP lawmaker told Reuters ahead of Sunday's election, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity surrounding such a move. The potential increase would follow pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on Washingtons allies to raise defence spending. Japan is drawing lessons from nearly four years of war in Ukraine, building up munitions stockpiles while planning to buy new equipment, including drones, to prepare for any prolonged conflict against a more powerful adversary. Advertisement Advertisement "Countries around the world are urgently preparing for new forms of warfare," Takaichi said."No one will help a country that lacks the resolve to defend itself." The scale of Takaichi's security ambitions could, however, be constrained by tax cuts and economic stimulus measures that would strain public finances, said Jeffrey Hornung, an expert on Japanese security policy at the RAND Corporation. "Maybe you'll see an effort to spend more, but because of her plans to spend on consumer measures, they may not choose to push much further," he said. The landslide victory could also bring a long-taboo security goal into view, one that would not burden public finances. Advertisement Advertisement With more than a two-thirds majority in the lower house, she could table an amendment to Japan's pacifist constitution to formally recognise the Self-Defence Forces as a military. Any such change would still require a two-thirds majority in the upper house - which she does not currently control - and approval in a national referendum. On Monday Takaichi said she would push for the first ever revision to the document authored by the United States after Japan's defeat in World War Two. "It's not a slam dunk," Hornung said, "but probably the best chance for any prime minister." (Reporting by Tim Kelly; additional reporting by Tom Bateman and John Geddie in Tokyo, Ethan Wang in Beijing and Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Lincoln Feast) JERUSALEM/BEIRUT, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Israeli troops carried out operations in Gaza and Lebanon on Monday, killing at least 8 people. According to an update from the Gaza health authorities, Israeli forces killed at least five Palestinians over the past day. For its part, an Israeli military spokesperson said in a statement that the troops shot and killed four militants after they exited an underground tunnel shaft and opened fire toward the soldiers in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. "Troops are continuing to operate in the area to locate and eliminate all the terrorists within the underground tunnel route," the spokesperson said. In southern Lebanon, three people, including a child, were killed in an Israeli drone strike on a vehicle, according to the Emergency Operations Center of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. On the attack, the Israeli military said that a Hezbollah operative was struck in the Yanouh area, saying it was a "response to Hezbollah's repeated violations of the ceasefire understandings." An Israeli military spokesperson later identified the "Hezbollah operative" as Ahmad Ali Salami, the group's head of artillery in the Yanouh area. TOKYO (AP) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's gamble that her personal popularity would lead to big election gains for her struggling party paid off hugely. On Monday, she began the process of translating that new power, made manifest in a two-thirds supermajority gained in parliamentary elections the day before, into what she hopes will be sweeping conservative legislation that will shift Japanese security, immigration, economic and social policies. The first steps include reappointing her Cabinet and pushing forward on a delayed budget and the votes next week that will reelect her as prime minister. Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi told reporters Monday that her efforts are aimed at making Japan safe, strong and prosperous. We have no time to bask in the afterglow of the (election) victory. Through this election, the people showed their determination to join me in the challenge, she said. I'm not afraid of making challenges and I will not sway. I will make a decision and accomplish it. Takaichis Liberal Democratic Party, or LDP, alone secured 316 seats, comfortably surpassing a 261-seat absolute majority in the 465-member lower house, the more powerful of Japan's two-chamber parliament, officials said. That is a record since the party's foundation in 1955. With the 36 seats won by its new ally, Japan Innovation Party, the ruling coalition won 352 seats. A smiling Takaichi placed a big red ribbon above each winners name on a signboard at LDP headquarters as accompanying party executives applauded. Advertisement Advertisement Despite the lack of a majority in the upper house, the huge jump from the preelection share in the more powerful lower house allows Takaichi to make progress on policies seeking to boost Japans economy and military as tensions grow with China and she tries to nurture ties with the United States. Takaichi said she would be humble and seek support from the opposition while firmly pushing forward with her policy goals. Takaichi is popular, but the LDP, which has ruled Japan for most of the last seven decades, has been hit with funding and religious scandals. She called Sundays early election after only three months in office, hoping to turn that around while her popularity is high. Popular leader Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi, who took office as Japans first female leader in October, pledged to work, work, work, and her style, which is seen as both playful and tough, has resonated with younger fans who say they weren't previously interested in politics. The opposition, despite the formation of a new centrist alliance and a rising far-right, was too splintered to be a real challenger. The new opposition alliance of LDPs former coalition partner, Buddhist-backed dovish Komeito and the liberal-leaning Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan fell to less than one-third of their combined preelection share of 167 seats. Takaichi was betting with this election that her LDP party, together with its new partner, the JIP, would secure a majority. U.S. President Donald Trump in a post on his Truth Social platform Sunday congratulated Takaichi "on a LANDSLIDE Victory in todays very important Vote. She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time. Advertisement Advertisement Akihito Iwatake, a 53-year-old office worker, said he welcomed the big LDP win because he felt the party became too liberal in recent years. With Takaichi shifting things more toward the conservative side, I think that brought this positive result, he said. Takaichi's policies Japan has recently seen far-right populists gain ground, such as the anti-globalist and surging nationalist party Sanseito. Exit polls projected a big gain for Sanseito. The first major task for Takaichi when the lower house reconvenes in mid-February is to work on a budget bill, delayed by the election, to fund economic measures that address rising costs and sluggish wages. Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to bolster Japans offensive military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from the countrys postwar pacifist principles. She has been pushing for tougher policies on foreigners, anti-espionage and other measures that resonate with a far-right audience, but ones that experts say could undermine civil rights. Takaichi also wants to increase defense spending in response to Trumps pressure for Japan to spend more. She now has time to work on these policies, without an election until 2028. Divisive policies Advertisement Advertisement Though Takaichi said she's seeking to win support for policies seen as divisive in Japan, she largely avoided discussing ways to fund soaring military spending, how to fix diplomatic tension with China and other issues. In her campaign speeches, Takaichi enthusiastically talked about the need for government spending to fund crisis management investment and growth, such as measures to strengthen economic security, technology and other industries. Takaichi also seeks to push tougher measures on immigration, including stricter requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on foreign residents. Masato Kamikubo, a politics professor at Ritsumeikan University, said most people are not familiar with her policies, but were attracted by her image, "like her perceived tough stance on security and her remark that angered China, something rather vague." ___ Associated Press journalists Mayuko Ono and Hiromi Tanoue in Tokyo and Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report. Japans conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi swept to a landslide victory in a snap election on Sunday, marking a historic turnaround for her party, which had been hemorrhaging voter support in recent years until she stepped to the helm. Since she was elected more than four months ago becoming Japans first female leader in a country where men have long dominated politics Takaichi has enjoyed sky high approval ratings and a glowing endorsement from US President Donald Trump. She won over many voters with her notoriously strong work ethic, savvy social media game and charisma, marked in viral moments such as a recent impromptu drum session with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung stoking public enthusiasm to levels not seen since former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Advertisement Advertisement It was a gamble to call a snap election. But Takaichi hoped to translate her own popularity into a stronger mandate for her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) which has been weakened in recent years by a scandal involving the misuse of political funds. Her risky move paid off. The LDP won more than 310 of the 465 seats in Japans lower house of parliament, marking the first time since World War II that a single party has secured a two-thirds majority. The broader ruling coalition won more than 340 seats. Crucially, the two-thirds supermajority in the lower house will allow Takaichis party to override votes in the upper house of parliament and to propose amendments to the constitution. Trump congratulates In an interview with public broadcaster NHK, Takaichi thanked the voters who braved the cold and walked through the snowy roads to cast their votes. Advertisement Advertisement I wanted the voters to give me a mandate because I advocated for responsible, proactive fiscal policy that would significantly shift economic and fiscal policy, she added. Writing on X Sunday, Takaichi thanked Trump for his endorsement earlier this month and said the potential of the US-Japan alliance was LIMITLESS. Trump celebrated Takaichis victory in a social media post on Sunday. Congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Coalition on a LANDSLIDE Victory in todays very important Vote. She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time, Trump wrote. Advertisement Advertisement The US leader added that it was his honor to endorse Takaichi and her coalition in the election. Sundays remarkable result also means Takaichis party and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, will have the numbers to chair all lower house committees. The election outcome will give Takaichi a fresh mandate to tackle challenges such as Japans rapidly aging population, the rising cost of living, a weak yen, and soured relations with China. Japans stock market responded favorably, with the benchmark Nikkei 225 index surging more than 5% to a fresh intraday high on expectations of tax cuts and higher government spending. The index, which tracks the largest companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, closed almost 4% higher Monday. Putting her leadership on the line Takaichi, a longtime lawmaker, rose to the top of Japanese politics last fall after her predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, resigned amid pressure from his own party following a series of bruising defeats for the LDP. Advertisement Advertisement She won the LDP presidency on October 4, her third attempt at the job, and was elected prime minister on October 21 a surprising triumph in Japans deeply patriarchal political system. A voter fills a ballot in the lower house election at a polling station in Tokyo on Sunday. - Louise Delmotte/AP Her decision to dissolve parliament three months later, she said in a January 19 press conference, was a profoundly weighty decision, adding that by doing so, I am also putting my position as prime minister on the line. Takaichi has enjoyed unusually high approval ratings during her short tenure, in which she has made waves for her relaxed, friendly interactions with other world leaders. During a meeting with the US president just one week into her term, Trump and Takaichi looked more like old friends than world leaders. Advertisement Advertisement She is a delight, Trump told business leaders after they met. I got to know her pretty well in a short period of time. Days before the election, Trump gave his total endorsement of Takaichi, writing in a post to Truth Social that she has already proven to be a strong, powerful, and wise Leader, and one that truly loves her Country. He added he plans to welcome Takaichi to Washington in March. Trump also enjoyed a close bond with Takaichis mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe who was assassinated in July 2022. Takaichis decisive leadership style and support for traditional values have drawn comparisons to Margaret Thatcher, whom she cites as inspiration. Advertisement Advertisement But it hasnt all been sunny for Japans first woman leader. She has been scrutinized for her relentless work schedule, which included calling a 3 a.m. meeting with aides. Comments she made about Taiwan, the democratic island claimed by China, also cratered Tokyos relationship with Beijing. Takaichi broke Japans long tradition of ambiguity on Taiwan when she told parliament in November that a Chinese attack on the island which lies just 60 miles (97 kilometers) from Japanese territory could trigger a military response from Tokyo. China retaliated by canceling flights, restricting imports of Japanese seafood and ramping up military patrols, among other measures. CNNs Hanako Montgomery and Sophie Tanno contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis ruling Liberal Democratic Party secured a sweeping win in Sundays parliamentary elections, capturing about 316 seats in the 465-member lower house and achieving a governing supermajority alongside allies. The result gives her a strong mandate to advance a conservative agenda focused on defense, immigration and economic reforms, the Associated Press reported. A heavy metal fan and drummer, Takaichi who has long cited former British PM Margaret Thatcher as a personal and political inspiration expressed gratitude for President Trumps support, thanking him for his congratulatory message following the victory and signaling continued alignment with Washington. Trump praised her leadership in a post after the results were announced. "Congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Coalition on a LANDSLIDE Victory in todays very important Vote," Trump wrote on social media, "Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an election paid off big time. Her Party now runs the Legislature, holding a HISTORIC TWO THIRDS SUPERMAJORITY The first time since World War II. Sanae: It was my Honor to Endorse you and your Coalition. I wish you Great Success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda. The wonderful people of Japan, who voted with such enthusiasm, will always have my strong support." Advertisement Advertisement Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japans First Female Prime Minister, Citing Thatcher Inspiration President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrive to speak to troops aboard USS George Washington at Fleet Activities Yokosuka on Oct. 28, 2025 in Yokosuka, Japan. (Getty Images) The election outcome represents one of the strongest performances for the ruling party in years and solidifies Takaichis position only months after taking office as Japans first female prime minister. Following the results, Takaichi said she was prepared to move forward with policies aimed at making Japan "strong and prosperous," as she seeks to implement reforms and bolster national security, the Associated Press reported. Read On The Fox News App Her agenda includes boosting defense spending, revising security policies and stimulating economic growth, while maintaining a tougher posture toward regional threats such as China. Known for her hawkish stance on Beijing, Takaichi is expected to maintain Japans close alignment with the United States. Advertisement Advertisement "Takaichi's landslide win shows other leaders that defiance of China can be popular with voters. Nobody has to appease or please Xi Jinping anymore," Asia analyst Gordon Chang told Fox News Digital. Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi Plans To Dissolve Parliament And Call Early Election To Strengthen Coalition U.S. officials also welcomed the outcome. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described aid on Fox News "Sunday Morning Futures With Maria Bartiromo" that Takaichi is a strong ally and emphasized that her leadership strengthens the strategic partnership between Washington and Tokyo. Takaichis victory is widely seen as a geopolitical signal as well as a domestic political triumph. Analysts say the strengthened mandate could deepen cooperation with the United States on security and economic policy at a time of rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Advertisement Advertisement The snap election, called just months into her premiership, was widely viewed as a referendum on her leadership. With the opposition fragmented, voters delivered a decisive result that now gives Takaichi political space to pursue her agenda through the remainder of the parliamentary term. Click Here To Download The Fox News App Lawmakers applaud Sanae Takaichi during a lower house session in Tokyo on Oct. 21, 2025, after she was elected Japans first female prime minister. Takaichi backs strengthening Japans defense posture and supports constitutional revision to expand the role of the military. Economically, she has praised the stimulus-driven policies associated with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Her public thanks to Trump underscores how central the U.S. alliance remains to Tokyos strategy moving forward, experts say, as she prepares to translate electoral momentum into legislative and security action at home and abroad. Reuters and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Original article source: Japan's 'Iron Lady' thanks Trump as party secures historic supermajority BUENOS AIRES, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Public sector employment in Argentina declined steadily during the first two years of President Javier Milei's administration, with more than 63,000 federal jobs eliminated as part of a fiscal austerity program, according to a report by the Center for Argentine Political Economy. Based on official statistics from the National Institute of Statistics and Census, the study found that between December 2023 and December 2025, the national government workforce fell by 63,234 positions, a drop of 18.4%. The decline continued throughout the period without interruption or recovery phases. The job cuts align with the government's fiscal adjustment policy launched after Milei took office in December 2023. Reducing public spending has been a central pillar of the administration's economic program and has resulted in a significant downsizing of the state sector. Advertisement Advertisement Most of the reductions occurred in state-owned companies and public corporations, the report said. Cuts also affected decentralized agencies, which manage specific policy areas with administrative autonomy, followed by central government offices that include ministries directly under the executive branch. Smaller reductions were recorded in regional administrative offices and other public entities. Individual cases illustrate the scope of the cuts. Since December 2023, layoffs have heavily affected companies and agencies considered strategic. State postal operator Correo Argentino recorded the largest reduction with 5,284 job losses. "The company guarantees territorial connectivity in areas where private firms do not operate and provides key logistics services for the state, such as distributing identity documents, medications, educational materials and support for electoral processes," the report said. Advertisement Advertisement State rail operator Operadora Ferroviaria followed with 3,637 layoffs. The workforce reduction came amid a contraction in the rail system, which affects transport costs and regional economic development. Banco Nacion, Argentina's largest state-owned bank, recorded 2,208 job losses during the period as the government expressed interest in a possible privatization. State airline Aerolineas Argentinas, responsible for air connectivity across a geographically large country, reported 1,872 layoffs. Water utility AySA, which provides drinking water and sanitation services in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area, recorded 1,730 job cuts, which affects operational capacity in a service used by millions of residents. Advertisement Advertisement The report also cited the near dismantling of the former national news agency Telam after 640 workers were dismissed, effectively ending its operational structure and in-house news production. Overall, the study said the decline in public employment reflects not only fiscal austerity, but also a shift in the government's approach to the state's role, with direct effects on infrastructure public services and state presence across the country. Hernan Letcher, director of the Center for Argentine Political Economy, told UPI the process reflects the austerity strategy to which Milei refers as the "chainsaw." "It is a very significant cut across the national public administration," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Beyond public employment, Letcher said workforce reductions are part of a broader spending adjustment. "The main cuts affect retirees, public works transfers to provinces, universities and public sector wages. These five areas concentrate most of the adjustment," he said. He also cited budget reductions in sensitive areas including disability-related programs, which he said have limited fiscal weight but significant social impact. Letcher warned that some effects do not appear directly in employment figures. "There is something not visible in public employment data which is the roughly 35% drop in sector wages," he said. Advertisement Advertisement He added that layoffs combined with reduced purchasing power have pushed some former public employees into poverty. "In some cases they lost their jobs and in others they remain employed but their wages are no longer sufficient," he said. Looking ahead, Letcher said the trend could continue. "Layoffs in the public sector will continue, as will wage declines," he said. He cited lower tax revenue, a deeper fiscal adjustment expected in 2026 and policies that reduce state income as factors pointing to continued public spending contraction. US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Armenia on Monday, before a scheduled trip to Azerbaijan, as Washington seeks to consolidate a peace process between the neighbours. Vance is the most senior US official to visit Armenia, where he is also expected to advance a flagship project to improve road and rail infrastructure in the region. His visit to Armenia -- until recently a close Russia ally -- comes as Moscow's influence has dwindled in the region since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement At a White House summit in August 2025, US President Donald Trump brokered an agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan that saw the two countries commit to renouncing claims on each other's territory and refrain from using force. The arch-foes have fought two wars over the Karabakh region in recent years. Azerbaijan finally seized the mountainous territory in a lightning offensive in 2023, ending three decades of rule by Armenian separatists. On Monday, Vance held talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and will head to Azerbaijan's capital Baku on Tuesday. "We are not just making peace for Armenia. We are also creating real prosperity for Armenia and the United States together," Vance told a news conference alongside Pashinyan. Advertisement Advertisement He announced a US drone technology sale to Armenia worth $11 million. Pashinyan called the visit "truly historic" and said he had "great hope" that President Donald Trump would "rightfully" receive the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace process. The two also signed a civil nuclear energy agreement, which Pashinyan said "will open a new chapter in the deepening energy partnership between Armenia and the United States". - Regional communications - The US State Department said the visit would "advance President Donald Trump's peace efforts and promote the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)". Advertisement Advertisement The TRIPP is a proposed road-and-rail corridor designed to link Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave, cut off from the mainland by Armenian territory, while integrating the region into a wider east-west trade route connecting Central Asia and the Caspian basin to Europe. Washington has presented the project as a confidence-building measure following decades of conflict between the two countries. Azerbaijan sees the opening of regional communications as the main precondition for signing a comprehensive peace treaty with its rival. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan announced in January an implementation framework for TRIPP, building on commitments made at the White House summit last year. Advertisement Advertisement The framework stresses sovereignty, territorial integrity and reciprocity, while promising economic gains for both Armenia and Azerbaijan through expanded trade and transit. - Shifting alignments - US officials say the route would also strengthen regional connectivity and bolster American commercial interests by opening new supply chains that bypass Russia and Iran. Few details of Vance's programme have been disclosed but the visit comes as Washington seeks a larger diplomatic and economic footprint in the South Caucasus and as regional alignments shift. More than 20 Armenian human rights groups sent an open letter urging Vance to help secure the release of Armenian detainees in Azerbaijani jails. Advertisement Advertisement A handful of Karabakh refugees held a rally outside the meeting venue, urging Vance to press for the prisoners' release. Last week, an Azerbaijani military court handed lengthy sentences, including life jail terms, to Armenian separatist leaders in a war crimes trial. Armenia -- historically Russia's outpost in the South Caucasus -- has frozen its participation in a Moscow-led security pact and moved to deepen ties with the United States and the European Union. Russia's influence across the former Soviet Union has been strained since its invasion of Ukraine, which has spooked many of the countries that were for decades dominated by Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Vance will not go to Georgia, which was once Washington's key ally in the region. US-Georgian ties have faltered after what US officials have described as Tbilisi's democratic backsliding and a pro-Russian tilt, prompting Washington to suspend a strategic partnership agreement. mkh-im/asy/phz JEFFERSONTOWN, Ky. (FOX 56) Authorities in Jeffersontown are working to learn more about a man the police department has dubbed the goose wrangler after multiple residents told law enforcement that their porch geese were stolen overnight. Officers with the Jeffersontown Police Department (JPD) shared footage from a Ring door camera that showed a man lift a large porch goose from its stoop before running toward a nearby pickup truck. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement As you see, the JGW should be at the gym at 1am instead of targeting innocent geese, Jeffersontown police wrote. In the video a person is heard yelling the name Brian from the stealth like diesel truck. Officers wrote that community members whod experienced a theft overnight were asked to call local law enforcement at (502) 267-0503. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) vowed Sunday that Democrats will shut down President Trumps push to nationalize elections. What Donald Trump wants to do is try to nationalize the election translation: Steal it. And were not going to let it happen, Jeffries told host Dana Bash on CNNs State of the Union. Earlier this week, the president called for transferring control of elections from certain states to the federal government. The Constitution grants states the authority to determine the times, places and manner of elections and says that Congress can alter those regulations. Advertisement Advertisement The Republicans should say, We want to take over. We should take over the voting in at least 15 places. The Republicans ought to nationalize the voting, Trump said Monday during an interview with former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. A day later, the president doubled down on his proposal, which was met with pushback on both sides of the aisle. I want to see elections be honest, and if a state cant run an election, I think the people behind me should do something about it, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, with Republican lawmakers surrounding him. The president specifically referenced Detroit, Philadelphia and Atlanta all Democratic-run cities as places where horrible corruption in elections is happening. Advertisement Advertisement The federal government should get involved, he added. These are agents of the federal government to count the votes. If they cant count the votes legally and honestly, then somebody else should take it over. But Jeffries said Sunday that his party, similar to its messaging on the GOPs redistricting push and Trumps deployment of National Guard troops to U.S. cities, will ensure that the upcoming midterms are free and fair. States are the ones who are empowered to conduct elections and every state should be allowed to decide the best way to proceed, to ensure that theres a free and fair election, he said. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and media mogul Jimmy Lai was being heralded by supporters as the citys conscience on Monday after he was sentenced to 20 years in prison on national security charges. Once a penniless teenage refugee who arrived in Hong Kong as a stowaway, Mr Lai rose to become one of the citys most influential media tycoons has now become its most prominent political prisoner. Mr Lai, 78, has been handed the longest sentence so far under Hong Kong's controversial national security laws, which were introduced in 2020 following a period of city-wide protests. The UK government has condemned his jailing as tantamount to a death sentence for the media mogul, while other countries including Japan have also spoken out. Advertisement Advertisement Mondays sentencing represents an effort by Beijing to quash what they see as a destabilising presence, but also the failure of foreign governments particularly the UK, of which Mr Lai is a citizen to secure either a more lenient sentence or his release. Lai was arrested just two months after this photo was taken in June 2020 (AFP/Getty) Mr Lai has already spent five years behind bars for his role in Hong Kongs 2019 pro-democracy protests, yet only two of those were counted as time already served, meaning he will not leave prison under his current sentence under 2044. He would be 96. The sentencing came only days after Sir Keir Starmer flew to China for the first trip to the country by a UK leader in eight years, amid pressure from human rights groups to press for the release of the British national. Concluding his trip on 31 January, Mr Starmer said he raised the case during his meeting with Xi Jinping and that he had a respectful discussion regarding his imprisonment in the former British colony. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Lai, 77, who founded the Apple Daily newspaper, which was forced to close after a police raid and asset freeze in June 2021, had pleaded not guilty to two charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces, and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious material. But after a two year trial, three judges handed down a guilty verdict, with Judge Esther Toh saying Mr Lais actions left no doubt that he had harboured resentment for the Chinese government. She said that the court was satisfied that Lai was the mastermind of conspiracies against the Chinese government and that his evidence was at times contradictory, inconsistent and unreliable. Who is Jimmy Lai? Born in mainland China, Mr Lai fled to Hong Kong aged 12 by stowing away on a fishing boat, where he began work as a child labourer in a garment factory. Advertisement Advertisement He built his fortune through fashion empire Giordano, before becoming an outspoken democracy advocate following the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, when hundreds, if not thousands, of protesters fighting for political reforms in Beijing were killed. In 1994, Mr Lai become a full British citizen. Despite having never held a Chinese or Hong Kong passport, he is regarded as a Chinese citizen by Hong Kong authorities. Mr Lai began the producing Chinese-language and pro-democratic newspaper Apple Daily before the 1997 handover of Hong Kong from the UK to China, as he aimed to maintain freedom of speech in the territory. The paper was openly critical about the Chinese government. Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai, 72, poses during an interview with AFP at the Next Digital offices in Hong Kong (AFP/Getty) Why was he imprisoned? A known pro-democracy campaigner, Mr Lai was known to Chinese authorities ahead of the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, prompted by Beijings growing crackdown on wide-ranging freedoms through the national security law. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Lai described the legislation as "a death knell for Hong Kong", and his Apple Daily newspaper was critical of the reforms while being supportive of the protestors. On 10 August 2020, Mr Lai was arrested alongside his sons on the accusation of collusion with foreign forces and fraud. Later that year he became the first high-profile figure to be charged for allegedly conspiring and colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security, under the new legislation. He has since been charged and banned on separate cases of unlawful assembly and other crimes relating to pro-democratic protests in Hong Kong. On 15 December, Mr Lai was found guilty on multiple charges of sedition and foreign collusion, in a landmark moment for the citys draconian national security laws and sliding press freedoms. Advertisement Advertisement Judges depicted Mr Lai as the orchestrator of a campaign aimed at pressuring foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China, allegedly with the goal of bringing about the downfall of the ruling Communist Party. Lai has denied all the charges. The sentencing on 9 February capped the legal saga spanning almost five years. Three judges handpicked by Hong Kongs leadership sentenced Mr Lai to 20 years in jail on national security charges. Mr Lai's sentence of 20 years was within the harshest penalty "band" of 10 years to life imprisonment for offences of a "grave nature" and is the most severe punishment meted out yet under the new laws. The three judges said Mr Lai's sentence was enhanced by the fact that he was the "mastermind" and driving force behind "persistent" foreign collusion conspiracies. Lais declining health Mr Lai has spent much of his imprisonment in solitary confinement and his son has been outspoken about fears over his health. Advertisement Advertisement The millionaires son, Sebastien Lai, claimed last year that his father, who suffers from diabetes, had lost a significant amount of weight and that he had been denied independent medical care. Jimmy Lais son, Sebastien has hit out at his fathers treatment (AFP via Getty Images) Mr Lai's lawyer, Robert Pang, told the court that he had experienced some episodes where he felt that he was collapsing and had heart "palpitations", prompting the court to adjourn proceedings and order that he be provided with a heart monitor and medication. The Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, a US-based, non-profit advocacy organisation, said Mr Lai was an iconic figure in the battle between those who uphold democratic values and Hong Kongs authoritarian government. Responding to his conviction in December, its UK and Europe director Mark Sabah said: The trial against Jimmy Lai has been a grotesque exercise in legal subversion and chicanery a show trial masquerading as justice. But whats actually been on display is the complete and total destruction of Hong Kongs reputation as a global legal centre. My father has been treated inhumanely, his son, Sebastien Lai, previously told The Independent. But he is defiant and strong. It is ridiculous that in his display of bravery, the prime minister [Sir Keir] will not meet with me, he added. Hong Kong's pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for colluding with foreign forces under the city's controversial national security law. The 78-year-old, who was convicted in December, is the most prominent person to be charged under the contentious law. It was introduced by China in 2020, in response to massive pro-democracy protests which erupted in Hong Kong the year before. The law criminalises anything Beijing deems to be subversive or secessionist, from chanting slogans to participating in pro-democracy protests. Beijing says it is necessary to maintain stability in Hong Kong but critics say it has effectively outlawed dissent. Advertisement Advertisement Hailed a hero by the pro-democracy movement, Lai has long been viewed as a traitor by Hong Kong authorities and Beijing. He emerged as a key critic of China and his Apple Daily newspaper became a platform for Hongkongers who wanted more freedom. When the sentence was read out in court on Monday, Lai, who has been detained since December 2020, smiled calmly and nodded. He has always denied the charges against him, saying he had fought for the freedoms that he believed were Hong Kong's values. Hong Kong says Lai has been given a fair trial under the rule of law, but critics say his case shows how the city's legal system has been used to silence political opposition. His family has voiced concerns about his deteriorating health in detention. This August, his son Sebastien told the BBC that even if his father - a British citizen - got just five years in prison, it was "practically the same as a death penalty." Advertisement Advertisement Rights groups on Monday also criticised the sentence, saying it was "effectively a death sentence" given Lai's age. Sebastien also criticised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for not securing Lai's release when he visited China in January. The "values [that the UK stands for] are being locked up along with my father," he said. Lai became one of the fiercest critics of the Chinese state and a leading figure advocating democracy in the former British territory. "I'm a born rebel," he told the BBC in an interview in 2020, hours before he was charged. "I have a very rebellious character." Advertisement Advertisement Lai is on trial for breaching national security and colluding with foreign forces [Getty Images] Rags to riches Lai was born in Guangzhou, a city in southern China, to a wealthy family that lost everything when the communists took power in 1949. He was 12 years old when he fled his village in mainland China, arriving in Hong Kong as a stowaway on a fishing boat. While working odd jobs and knitting in a small clothing shop he taught himself English. He went from a menial role to eventually founding a multi-million dollar empire including the international clothing brand Giordano. The chain was a huge success. But when China sent in tanks to crush pro-democracy protests in Beijing's Tiananmen Square in 1989, Lai began a new journey as a vocal democracy activist as well as an entrepreneur. Advertisement Advertisement He started writing columns criticising the massacre that followed the demonstrations in Beijing and established a publishing house that went on to become one of Hong Kong's most influential. Lai is among the most prominent people charged under Hong Kong's controversial national security law [Reuters] As China responded by threatening to shut his stores on the mainland, leading him to sell the company, Lai launched a string of popular pro-democracy titles that included Next, a digital magazine, and the widely read Apple Daily newspaper. In a local media landscape increasingly fearful of Beijing, Lai had been a persistent critic of Chinese authorities both through his publications and writing. This has seen him become a hero for many in Hong Kong, who view him as a man of courage who took great risks to defend the freedoms of the city. Advertisement Advertisement But on the mainland he is viewed as a "traitor" who threatens Chinese national security. In recent years, masked attackers firebombed Lai's house and company headquarters. He was also the target of an assassination plot. But none of the threats stopped him from airing his views robustly. He was a prominent part of the city's pro-democracy demonstrations and was arrested twice in 2021 on illegal assembly charges. Apple Daily was unafraid to be openly critical of the Chinese state [Getty Images] When China passed Hong Kong's new national security law in June 2020, Lai told the BBC it sounded the "death knell" for the territory. The media mogul is known for his frankness and acts of flamboyance. Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, he urged Donald Trump to help the territory, saying he was "the only one who can save us" from China. His newspaper, Apple Daily, published a front-page letter that finished: "Mr President, please help us." For Lai, such acts were necessary to defend the city which had taken him in and fuelled his success. He once told news agency AFP: "I came here with nothing, the freedom of this place has given me everything... Maybe it's time I paid back for that freedom by fighting for it." Lai has been charged with various offences - including unauthorised assembly and fraud - since 2020. Advertisement Advertisement The prosecution of Lai has captured international attention, with rights groups and foreign governments urging his release. Over the years, Sebastien Lai has travelled the world to denounce his father's arrest and condemn Hong Kong for punishing "characteristics that should be celebrated". "My father is in jail for the truth on his lips, courage in his heart, and freedom in his soul," he had said. WASHINGTON (AP) The children of Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy former Hong Kong media mogul and China critic, said Monday that a possible visit by President Donald Trump to Beijing in April could be crucial in securing the release of their 78-year-old father. Lai's son and daughter pleaded for their father's freedom on humanitarian grounds after a Hong Kong court on Monday sentenced him to 20 years in prison following convictions under a Beijing-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the citys dissent. The president has said multiple times that this is a case that he cares about, Sebastien Lai said about Trump during a call with reporters. We are in a situation where the April visit will be, more obviously, be crucial, and, hopefully, my father will still be OK health-wise until that point. Advertisement Advertisement Speaking of his father, the younger Lai said this is a man who is, unfortunately, is very close to dying. Hes a man who has gone through a tremendous amount. His body has deteriorated. The ruling in Hong Kong is certain to add friction to already fragile U.S.-China relations, with Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping expected to meet this year to keep ties stabilized over thorny issues like tariffs, export restrictions and U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, a self-governed island that Beijing claims is Chinese territory. While Trump has said several times he will be visiting Beijing this April, China has yet to confirm it. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the decision to sentence Lai to 20 years an unjust and tragic conclusion to this case. In a statement, Rubio urged Chinese authorities to grant Lai humanitarian parole, noting that Lai and his family have suffered enough after a trial lasting two years and his detention for more than five years. Advertisement Advertisement After Lai was convicted in December, Trump said he felt so badly and that he had asked Xi to consider releasing Lai, who is the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, which was known for its critical reports about the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing. Were hopeful but we dont know, his daughter Claire Lai said of the prospects that Trump would successfully negotiate for her fathers release. Chris Tang, Hong Kongs secretary for security, accused external forces of ignoring the facts and making biased criticisms of court decisions. We will refute baseless allegations and smearing resolutely by presenting the truth and facts for all to see, Tang said. In an interview with The Associated Press in London, Sebastien Lai said it's time for world leaders to keep pressure on Beijing when they visit China or meet with Xi by bringing up his father's case. Advertisement Advertisement I could only pray that this pressure helps," the younger Lai said. I think my fathers case is the litmus test to whatever engagement we have with China." British Prime Minister Keir Starmers government said he directly raised Jimmy Lais case with Xi during a visit to China last month. U.K. officials said they will rapidly engage further after Mondays sentencing, but it wasnt clear what that entailed. Sebastien Lai said he is incredibly grateful for Trump's past remarks about freeing his father, which have "given my family a lot of hope. Now, it's about saving his father's life, the son said. Advertisement Advertisement Its a 20-year sentence, which is comically large, given that my fathers 78. At that point in 20 years, hell be 100 almost," he said. "But in the conditions hes been kept in ... he might die before then. ___ Hui reported from London. MOSCOW/KIEV, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that Russian energy infrastructure is "a legitimate target" for Ukrainian strikes because the energy sector provides funds for Russian weapon procurement. "We do not have to choose whether we strike a military target or energy ... it's the same thing," said Zelensky on X. "We either build weapons and strike their weapons. Or we strike the source where their money is generated and multiplied." Russia reported on Friday that overnight Ukrainian drone strikes caused extensive damage to the energy infrastructure in its border region of Belgorod, leading to power outages. According to the governor of Belgorod, Belgorod city and five surrounding districts were affected. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that Russian forces carried out "a massive attack" on Ukraine's energy facilities overnight on Saturday. These strikes were launched just days after the second round of the U.S.-brokered peace talks between Russia and Ukraine was held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which yielded no breakthrough as both sides insisted on opposing demands. Zelensky criticized Russia's attacks on energy infrastructure, accusing Moscow of choosing strikes rather than "real diplomacy," and urged those supporting the trilateral talks to respond. Russia also blamed Ukraine for undermining the peace process, saying on Monday that Ukrainian intelligence services were involved in Friday's assassination attempt on a senior general of Russia's military intelligence agency. According to Russia's Federal Security Service, two suspects had been detained and confessed to having links with Ukraine, while a third one had fled to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Sunday called the assassination attempt part of a hybrid war, stressing that such actions were aimed at preventing contacts and disrupting the next round of talks. However, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said on Friday that Kiev had nothing to do with the incident, describing it as an internal Russian affair. HONG KONG (AP) Prominent democracy advocate Jimmy Lai was a child stowaway from mainland China who rose to become Hong Kongs onetime media magnate. Unlike other rags-to-riches tycoons who cultivated ties with Beijing, he chose to become its fierce critic. The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily, a newspaper known for critical reports against both the Hong Kong and Beijing governments, was sentenced to 20 years in prison Monday for his conviction under a China-imposed national security law. Here are 10 key moments in Lais life showing his evolution from a clothing businessman to one of the citys best-known pro-democracy activists. Advertisement Advertisement 1989: Tiananmen shifts path of clothing chain founder From a child laborer in a glove factory, Lai transformed himself into a clothing entrepreneur, founding the Giordano casual clothing chain in 1981. But the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Beijing changes Lais path. Giordano prints T-shirts in support of the student-led, pro-democracy protests. He becomes interested in the media to disseminate information. 1990: Start of a media empire Lai breaks into the media world and sets up Next Magazine with a goal to participate in delivering freedom. The more you are in the know, the more you are free, he said in 2024 while giving testimony at his trial. Advertisement Advertisement 1994: Insulting a Chinese leader After then-hardline Chinese Premier Li Peng justified the Tiananmen crackdown, Lai gets mad. He writes an open letter to call Li the son of a turtle egg, a slur in Chinese. China pressures the Giordano brand, eventually forcing Lai to sell his stake in the company. 1995: Apple Daily Lai launches Apple Daily two years before Hong Kong, then a British colony, is returned to China. Lai stars in the advertisement for the tabloid-style publication, biting an apple while being targeted by arrows. The commercial ends with the newspapers slogan, an apple a day keeps the liars away. Advertisement Advertisement Apple Daily is seen by some as a voice for democracy and freedom, drawing a strong following with its sometimes sensational reports and later investigative scoops. 2003: Security bill protest Apple Daily gives out posters in support of a major protest against a proposed national security law on the sixth anniversary of Hong Kongs return to Chinese rule. The poster is printed with the message, Dont want Tung Chee-hwa, referring to Hong Kongs first Beijing-backed city leader after the 1997 handover. The protest draws an estimated half a million people to Hong Kong streets and the government later withdraws the proposed law. Advertisement Advertisement 2014: Lai joins the Umbrella Movement Lai joins pro-democracy protests against proposed electoral reforms that fall short of full democracy. Outside government headquarters on Sept. 28, he wears the goggles that are common protective gear among protesters. Demonstrators fend off police pepper spray with umbrellas, causing the demonstrations to become known as the Umbrella Movement. Police clear the protest site following 79 days of the street occupation movement. Before being taken away by police, Lai chants, I want genuine universal suffrage. 2019: Meetings with US officials anger Beijing Lai joins street protests again. Advertisement Advertisement After demonstrators storm and vandalize the legislative building on July 1, Lai suggests his newspaper colleagues report on the young protesters thinking to gain sympathy for them. He also meets U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, angering Beijing. 2020: Lai arrested for allegedly colluding with foreign forces Police arrest Lai on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces under a national security law that Beijing deems necessary for the citys stability. The media tycoon is among the first prominent figures to be prosecuted. Officers also raid his media company, sending shock waves through Hong Kongs news industry. Advertisement Advertisement 2021: Apple Daily shutters The newspaper is forced to close after authorities arrest top executives and editors, and freeze some of its assets. Police also raid its office. The final edition of Apple Daily sells 1 million copies. 2025: Conviction under national security law Lai has remained in custody since December 2020. After a 156-day trial, three government-vetted judges convict Lai of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiring with others to publish seditious articles. His verdict raises concerns over the decline of the citys press freedom and draws criticism from foreign governments. The Hong Kong government insists his case has nothing to do with media freedom. ___ Moritsugu reported from Beijing. Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison by three government-vetted judges in Hong Kong. (Getty Images - image credit) Jimmy Lai's niece in Niagara-on-the-Lake says it's a "sad day for Hong Kong" after the pro-democracy activist and media mogul was sentenced to 20 years in prison under a China-imposed national security law. "This is an example of just how much has changed in Hong Kong in terms of freedom, freedom of speech, freedom of press. My heart breaks for Hong Kong," Erica Lepp told Metro Morning on Monday. In custody since 2020, Lai was found guilty in December of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. Advertisement Advertisement In sentencing the 78-year-old on the weekend, Judge Esther Toh said 18 years of his term should be served consecutively to his jail term in his fraud case, for which he received a sentence of five years and nine months. Lai can appeal his case. Although three government-vetted judges spared Lai the maximum penalty of life imprisonment, Lepp said: "This is basically a life sentence for my uncle." Hong Konger-Canadian groups across Canada including in Vancouver, Saskatchewan, Toronto and Montreal have also denounced the sentencing of Lai, calling it "draconian." In a joint statement, the groups said keeping an "elderly prisoner" who is diabetic and has already spent much of his 1,800 days in custody in solitary confinement is "cruel," "degrading" and a "violation of international human rights." Advertisement Advertisement Lai, a fierce critic of Beijing, founded Apple Daily, a pro-democracy newspaper in Hong Kong that ran for 26 years until it was shut down in 2021. He also owns several hotels in the Niagara Region. Lai's co-defendants, six former employees of his Apple Daily newspaper and two activists, received prison terms of between 6 and 10 years on collusion-related charges. "It was heartbreaking to say the least," Lepp, the daughter of Lai's twin sister, said of learning about her uncle's sentence. "It felt very heavy, even though we knew it was coming." She said the news has had a big impact on her mother. Advertisement Advertisement "This is very hard for her and she will privately grieve this very difficult news." Erica Lepp, Lai's niece, has been vocal about how her uncle has been treated in Hong Kong. (Diona Macalinga/CBC) Deep ties to Niagara Lai owns Vintage Hotels, a string of inns across Niagara. "Niagara-on-the-Lake was very much his home in Canada," said Lepp. She added that the small town's community is tight knit and always asks about Lai. "No doubt with the news last night ... that it will be on all of our local newspapers, and we will receive a lot of messages about it. It's a wonderful community who loves my uncle and our family deeply." In November, family and supporters of Lai, including members of the local Amnesty chapter, rallied near a G7 meeting in Niagara-on-the-Lake to demand his release. (Diona Macalinga/CBC) In November, Lai's family and community held a rally near a G7 meeting in Niagara-on-the-Lake that pushed for his release. Advertisement Advertisement Arrested in August 2020, he appeared to be facing health challenges during his trial. His lawyers said he suffered from heart palpitations. Lai's children have said he lost 22 pounds in the last year. They also said he suffered from infections for months, and had constant back pain, diabetes, heart issues and high blood pressure. By Andrew MacAskill LONDON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The son of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai appealed to the British government on Monday to do "much more" to secure his elderly father's release and he criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer's efforts to reset London's relations with Beijing. Hong Kong's most vocal China critic, Jimmy Lai, 78, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in jail on charges of colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials, prompting a renewed chorus of concern in the West over Beijing's clampdown on freedoms in the former British colony. Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Lai, a British citizen, denied the charges against him and told the court he was a "political prisoner". "Much more needs to be done and quickly because, if not, he's going to pass away in prison," Sebastien Lai, also a British citizen, told Reuters in London. He said it had been a mistake for Starmer to visit China last month without first demanding that his father be released from jail. "I wish the prime minister did more," he said. "We're not asking the world. This isn't a hard thing for them to do." Starmer went to China with dozens of business leaders for the first visit by a British leader to the country in eight years. While there he called for Jimmy Lai's release but the focus of his visit was reviving economic ties. Advertisement Advertisement Starmer's spokesperson said the government's engagement with Beijing had allowed ministers to raise human rights concerns, including Jimmy Lai's case. "Having a policy of not engaging at all with China is not a policy that benefits Britain or British citizens," the spokesperson told reporters on Monday. Earlier, the government responded to the Jimmy Lai verdict by announcing an expansion of the visa route for those wanting to move from Hong Kong to Britain. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill, additional reporting Alistair Smout, editing by Gareth Jones) Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) is seen as a rising star in his party, and many of his admirers think he could be a strong presidential candidate, pointing to his successes in Pennsylvania. His name is consistently floated in conversation about the 2028 presidential race, and he was considered as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris in 2024. But one issue continues to shadow his national ambitions: Israel. He would be my top pick, but hes not getting through a primary, said one longtime Democratic donor, who described themselves as a fan of Shapiro but spoke of concerns that the partys base may not support a candidate who is an observant Jew and self-proclaimed Zionist. It will be his biggest obstacle, no doubt. Advertisement Advertisement Asked how Israel would come into play during a 2028 race, Democratic strategist Eddie Vale put it this way: As Donald Rumsfeld would say, Its a known unknown.' There are Democratic activists who have it as their No. 1 priority and also primary voters who care about this issue a lot, he said. Shapiro spokesperson Manuel Bonder in a statement said Shapiro was focused on his own reelection this year. Governor Shapiro is focused on continuing to lower costs, making our communities safer, delivering results for Pennsylvanians and winning up and down the ballot in 2026, he said. In order to put a stop to Donald Trumps chaos, cruelty, and corruption, we need to win elections and no one should be looking past 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Shapiro hasnt shied away from taking a firm position on Israel even as sentiment within the Democratic Party has significantly shifted. In 2024, as pro-Palestinian demonstrations spread across college campuses around the country, the governor called it absolutely unacceptable when institutions failed to protect Jewish students. He later publicly urged the University of Pennsylvania to disband a protest encampment, calling the situation unstable as it posed a threat to student safety. The reaction angered some activists, including younger progressives, who viewed it as running counter to their views on Israels actions in Gaza. That tension carried into Shapiros vice presidential vetting with Harriss team. In Shapiros newly released book, Where We Keep the Light: Stories from a Life of Service, he writes that Harriss team asked him if he was an agent of the Israeli government. Advertisement Advertisement Was she kidding? he wrote in the book. I told her how offensive the question was. The governor added that when he was asked in the vetting process if he would apologize for his condemnation of the pro-Palestinian protests at the University of Pennsylvania, he declined: No, I said flatly. In the book, Shapiro recalled trying to convince Harris that he could still win over skeptical voters even in Dearborn, Mich., which has one of the largest Arab American populations in the country. The encounter underscores how sensitive the issue of Israel was at the time and how it could continue to be a factor for Shapiros presidential aspirations if the tone remains the same within the party. Advertisement Advertisement Polls show growing skepticism of U.S. support for Israel among Democrats. A Pew Research Center poll released last year, for example, found that 18 percent of Democrats had a favorable view of the Israeli government, while 77 percent of Democrats viewed it unfavorably. It also made an impact in the 2024 election, according to a survey by the Institute for Middle East Understanding that was conducted by YouGov. That poll showed that 29 percent of voters who supported President Biden in 2020 and cast a ballot for someone besides Harris in 2024 said ending Israels violence in Gaza was the top issue resulting in their voting decision. The economy was second at 24 percent. Shapiro, for his part, has maintained that hes not governing by poll numbers. In a 2025 interview with The Forward, the independent Jewish news outlet, he said his views on Israel dont waffle or waver because of what the polling said, even as the partys energy has moved leftward. Advertisement Advertisement The governors positioning reflects a deeper rift within the Democratic Party a tug-of-war between an increasingly vocal progressive wing and a broader but less animated moderate core. While Harris herself maintained a traditionally pro-Israel stance during the 2024 campaign, activists say Shapiros outspoken tone could cloud the way some see him. That is his elephant in the room, John Morgan, another Democratic donor, said of Shapiro. At the same time, some strategists argue that other issues including the economy, education and public safety will matter more to voters in the 2028 election. And Shapiro, they say, has success he can point to back home. A Morning Consult poll released earlier this week shows him with a 62 percent approval rating among registered voters in Pennsylvania. Since taking office, his administration has helped attract more than $35 billion in private-sector investment to the state, including major projects from Amazon and Eli Lilly, leading to the creation of more than 18,000 jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Unemployment has also remained at or below the national average, a point he reflected in his State of the State address this week. In the speech, he also highlighted how violent crime has declined by 12 percent and gun violence is down 42 percent. He certainly has a strong case to make based on his electoral performance across all parts of Pennsylvania, bills hes passed, and fixing I-95 together with the unions in record time, Vale said, referencing the 2023 reconstruction of a collapsed section of highway in Philadelphia. Progressive activist Nomiki Konst agreed that Shapiro should highlight his economic wins and labor support during a primary. Advertisement Advertisement It shows hes not a one-note guy, she said. Konst added that Shapiros personal experience with antisemitism including a 2025 arson attack on the governors residence could also be something that the governor could lean into. The fire, set during Passover just hours after the Shapiro family hosted a Seder, forced the governor, his wife, and four children to evacuate. The man who was arrested, Cody Allen Balmer, later pleaded guilty to charges including terrorism and attempted murder and was sentenced last year to 25 years to 50 years in prison. There is nothing that man could do that would deter me from proudly and openly practicing my faith, Shapiro said after the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Allies close to Shapiro say the only thing he is focused on at the moment is winning reelection in the gubernatorial race later this year and that 2028 is not on his mind. But the Democratic donor who favors Shapiro wonders if the odds may be stacked against him. The progressive, populist movement has the bully pulpit right now even if theyre just 20 percent of the party, the donor said. Thats resonating everywhere. And the fact of the matter is moderates like Shapiro are out of vogue. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Workers rally in North Bergen on Feb. 9, 2026, to restart construction on the Gateway project. (Photo courtesy of the New Jersey Governor's Office) A federal judge on Monday declined to reverse an earlier ruling that directed the federal government to restart reimbursements to states for the stalled Gateway project, but she agreed to pause that order until Feb. 12 to allow the Trump administration to appeal it. Judge Jeannette Vargas order is the latest in the legal saga over more than $200 million in federal reimbursements owed to the Gateway Development Commission, which is overseeing the construction of new rail tunnels under the Hudson River. The funding freeze began in October, and last week it forced construction on the project to halt entirely Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey and New York, which are suing to restart the frozen funding, have demonstrated that the construction shutdown will have an immediate and severe impact on the regions economic interests, Vargas wrote in the ruling, adding that the commission has already begun laying off workers who depend upon the Hudson River Tunnel for their livelihood. The $16 billion project is key to the regions economy, and state officials have warned that a stoppage would cost between $15 and $20 million each month and the immediate loss of 1,000 jobs, with thousands more job losses expected if construction remains paused. The states lawsuit alleges the Trump administration violated contract terms and federal law that requires governments to give reasoned explanations for their decisions, among other infirmities. The administration has repeatedly given morphing explanations for why it froze funding to the project. Initially, federal budget director Russel Vought claimed funding was frozen to stop money from flowing to unconstitutional DEI principles. The Department of Transportation later said it froze payments over compliance with new and later, old rules for its disadvantaged business enterprise program. Advertisement Advertisement The White House in January claimed money was frozen due to an impasse over funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. That funding came into political focus months after the administration began the freeze. President Donald Trump has repeatedly indicated his partisan preferences were behind the freeze. What were doing is were cutting Democrat programs that we didnt want, he said on Fox News in October. Governors in New Jersey and New York are Democrats, and the party holds majorities in both legislative chambers in those states. Funding for Gateway was approved by Congress under President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Mondays administrative stay gives the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals time to consider the federal governments appeal of Fridays ruling. Trump administration attorneys in filings argued that requiring it to repay the more than $200 million it owes to the commission would irreparably harm the federal government because it would be unable to recover the money later if the Trump administration ultimately prevails in court. The administration also claimed New York and New Jersey lack standing to sue because the funding freeze is a contract dispute judicable within the Court of Federal Claims, where the Gateway Development Commission has sued the government over the funding freeze. Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D) has sharply criticized the Trump administration for forcing construction on the project to stop. Advertisement Advertisement Thats what the president doesnt seem to get, that there are working men and women feeding their families on this job, and every day that goes by that he doesnt release the funds is a day that our families are in trouble. So the president needs to release the funds, Sherrill said to laborers at a rally in North Bergen Monday. Release the funds now, the workers chanted in response. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX WEST PALM BEACH Bianca DeSouza gave birth to a boy with chubby arms and a cry that only she would hear. He was still warm by the time first responders filed into her bedroom but had gone quiet long before. Their attempts to resuscitate him failed. Palm Beach County sheriff's deputies charged DeSouza with aggravated manslaughter in December 2022, a year and a half after the newborn's death. Investigators say she ignored the child's cries and let him suffocate against her thigh while she reeled from the delivery in bed at her suburban Boca Raton home. "I just didn't do anything," she told deputies later. "It was like my body stopped working." Advertisement Advertisement DeSouza, now 23, pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter of a child without first negotiating a plea agreement with prosecutors. She returned to court Jan. 28 for the first of a two-day sentencing hearing, hopeful that Circuit Judge Sarah Willis might spare her from prison. Circuit Judge Sarah Willis listens to Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during Bianca DeSouza's sentencing hearing at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Bianca DeSouza weeps in court during her sentencing hearing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Dr. Gretchen Moy explains her three-prong psychological diagnoses of Bianca DeSouza that included post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder and social anxiety disorder during DeSouza's sentencing hearing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Moy also determined that DeSouza's IQ score was 80 with Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale test, she said. Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey speaks during her Bianca DeSouza's sentencing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Assistant State Attorney Mathri Thannikkotu speaks during a sentencing hearing for Bianca DeSouza in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Bianca DeSouza sits in court with Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during her sentencing hearing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2025. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Bianca DeSouza sits in court with Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during her sentencing hearing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2025. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Bianca DeSouza scored 80 on IQ test, diagnosed PTSD, MDD and SAD 1 of 7 Circuit Judge Sarah Willis listens to Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during Bianca DeSouza's sentencing hearing at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2026. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Under Florida's sentencing guidelines, DeSouza faced a potential 14-year sentence. Assistant State Attorney Mathri Thannikkotu recommended eight years instead, a sentence which she said accounted for DeSouza's remorse and mental health while also punishing her "sufficiently." "We can all have a shared desire that she thrive and succeed in adult life despite what she has been through," Thannikkotu said. "Certainly I hope that someday she is a productive member of society but the task at hand is to punish her. That's what the goal of the criminal code is." Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey disagreed. Adamant that DeSouza needed rehabilitation over punishment, she recommended a probation-only sentence instead. Advertisement Advertisement Ramsey said DeSouza wasn't a cold and negligent mother who'd ignored her baby's cries, but a traumatized teenager who'd gone into shock after delivering the baby alone in her bedroom. "She just says, 'I don't know what happened. I just couldn't make my body work. I couldn't do anything that day,' " Ramsey said. "She takes full responsibility for what happened." Baby's death ruled homicide one year later Palm Beach County medical examiners ruled the child's death a homicide by asphyxiation on April 28, 2023. In their report, they concluded that the infant's face was positioned against DeSouza's thigh under the blanket, further restricting his breathing. DeSouza had broken down at her baby's viewing on May 10, 2022, and apologized repeatedly to the child, laid in a small makeshift crib. A deputy pressed her on this apology later, asking if she intentionally suffocated the baby. Advertisement Advertisement "No, never," she said. Bianca DeSouza sits in court with Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during her sentencing hearing in Circuit Judge Sarah Willis' courtroom at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on January 29, 2025. Willis is weighing downward departure considerations before issuing a sentence. Ramsey played the recording deputies took of DeSouza sobbing during her sentencing hearing. After, she called Dr. Gretchen Moy, a forensic psychologist, to testify about the trauma DeSouza had endured since childhood, documented in medical records and state Department of Children and Families reports. DeSouza was sexually abused by her brother starting at age 8 or 9, the doctor said. At age 10, DeSouza told a school counselor she was afraid to go home after receiving a bad grade, afraid her mother would beat her. The DCF eventually removed DeSouza and her brother from their mother's care and placed them with their biological father. The sexual abuse continued. By 14, she'd been hospitalized four times for suicidal thoughts and diagnosed with PTSD and major depression. With an IQ of 80, DeSouza dropped out of high school in 10th grade, failed several attempts to get her GED and later worked as an exotic dancer and in sex work to survive. Advertisement Advertisement Moy said that this kind of severe childhood trauma can explain why DeSouza dissociated after giving birth, one day before she was scheduled to be induced in a hospital. People who've experienced multiple types of abuse physical, sexual, verbal are more prone to mental shutdown in crisis situations, the doctor said. Circuit Judge Sarah Willis listens to Assistant Public Defender Elizabeth Ramsey during Bianca DeSouza's sentencing hearing at the Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, Fla., on Jan. 29, 2026. Willis sentenced DeSouza to 10 years of probation. Though she'd been diagnosed, hospitalized and flagged by mental health caseworkers since age 10, she'd never received long-term care, DeSouza's attorney said. She asked Willis to forego prison in favor of a New Mexico treatment facility where, for the first time, she would have the chance to succeed. Thannikkotu was doubtful DeSouza would comply with treatment in a non-locked-down facility. She pointed to DeSouza's repeated violations of court orders in the wake of her arrest: not reporting to supervised release, leaving a treatment program and ultimately fleeing, which led to her arrest. Safe Haven laws: Things you didn't know about Safe Haven laws: Every state has one Advertisement Advertisement The prosecutor said it would be "foolish" to expect different results at the New Mexico treatment facility. Willis disagreed. On Feb. 6, she withheld adjudication, sparing DeSouza from becoming a convicted felon, and sentenced her to 10 years of probation. She ordered DeSouza to complete at least one year at the New Mexico facility, where she will have no access either to phones or the internet. "It's a difficult case for everyone involved, I know," Willis said. "It was a loss for everyone. Good luck, Ms. DeSouza. You have a lot of people that really believe in you, so take advantage of it." DeSouza nodded. Advertisement Advertisement "Oh my God," she said quietly. She wiped her eyes with a handcuffed wrist and smiled at her attorney. Hannah Phillips covers criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism and subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Boca Raton woman gets probation for baby's death after trauma defense HARTFORD - A judge on Thursday upheld the decision by a state commission to remove the state's former chief public defender, rejecting claims that the process violated her constitutional rights and misapplied state law. Judge Matthew Budzik of state Superior Court in New Britain dismissed TaShun Bowden-Lewis' appeal of a June 4, 2024, decision by the Public Defender Services Commission to remove her from her post after two years for "just cause" under state law. Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, Bowden-Lewis made history as the first Black chief public defender in the state. She previously served as a public defender in Superior Court in Waterbury. In her appeal, Bowden-Lewis argued the commission denied her due process by failing to provide a post-termination hearing, acting with bias, improperly shifting the burden of proof and relying on documentary and hearsay evidence without allowing cross-examination. She also contended the commission lacked statutory authority to supervise or direct her actions. "The court rejects each of Ms. Bowden-Lewis' arguments," Budzik wrote in his 30-page decision. "The court holds that the hearing process followed by the commission complies with federal constitutional due process standards and that the decision to remove Ms. Bowden-Lewis for just cause complied with Connecticut law and is supported by substantial evidence in the record." Thomas Bucci, Bowden-Lewis' attorney, could not be reached for comment Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Bowden-Lewis also has a civil rights lawsuit against the commission members in federal court. The lawsuit contends the commission unlawfully retaliated against her for complaining about discrimination and failed to grant her due process of law in her ouster. There is also an appeal of the commission with the state Commission of Human Rights and Opportunities. Concerns about Bowden-Lewis' management style and workplace conduct in her first year as chief public defender prompted the commission to hire the law firm Shipman & Goodwin in 2023 to investigate complaints from current and former employees in the division. The resulting report cited repeated concerns from multiple witnesses regarding bullying, marginalization of staff and improper personnel decisions, though it did not find that her conduct amounted to an illegal hostile work environment. Following the investigation, the commission issued a letter of reprimand in October 2023 and later placed Bowden-Lewis on paid administrative leave. In March 2024, the commission formally charged her with 16 violations of agency policies and notified her of a hearing where she could testify, present evidence and call witnesses. Advertisement Advertisement The judge found in his decision that Bowden-Lewis was given a full opportunity to defend herself at the April 2024 hearing and noted that she was informed the hearing would be her sole chance to present evidence and arguments, the decision stated. Although Bowden-Lewis had witnesses present and able to testify, she did not call any witnesses other than herself, according to the decision. The judge also rejected Bowden-Lewis' claim that the commission had prejudged the case or lacked neutrality, noting that she did not formally seek to disqualify commissioners or request recusal of the commission's chairman, retired Supreme Court Justice Richard N. Palmer. Palmer on Monday declined to comment due to the pending litigation. This article originally published at Judge upholds commission's removal of former Connecticut Chief Public Defender TaShun Bowden-Lewis. WASHINGTON The Trump administration is seeking to overturn former Trump aide Steve Bannons contempt of Congress conviction. In filings to the district court and Supreme Court, the Justice Department said the government has determined that dismissal of this criminal case is in the interests of justice. The filings did not elaborate further. Bannon defied a congressional subpoena demanding he testify about the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021. President Donald Trump has criticized the prosecution of Bannon and others as political, including the approximately 1,600 people he pardoned for charges related to the attack. Advertisement Advertisement A dismissal of Bannons case would avoid the need for Trump to pardon him, too. At the end of his first term as president, Trump pardoned Bannon as he was awaiting trial in Manhattan for a different case: fraud charges tied to a border wall fundraising effort. Notable conservative figures and thousands of GOP faithful gathered in Arizona for Turning Points annual AmericaFest conference this week. The four-day event marks Turning Points first conference since its co-founder, Charlie Kirk, was shot and killed by an assassins bullet. See the most memorable images inside the event at Phoenix Convention Center, starting here with Tucker Carlson. Megyn Kelly waves to the audience during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, December 19, 2025. Steve Bannon speaks during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, December 19, 2025. Russell Brand takes the stage during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Tucker Carlson speaks during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Conservative commentators Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro clashed over issues animating the right such as Candace Owens, controversial live-streamer and white supremacist Nick Fuentes; and Israel. Ben Shapiro speaks during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Michael Knowles speaks during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Pastor John Amanchukwu leads the daily prayer at Turning Point's annual AmericaFest conference in remembrance of late right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk in Phoenix on Dec. 18, 2025. Michael Knowles speaks during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Erika Kirk arrives on stage during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Tucker Carlson speaks during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Russell Brand speaks during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Actor Russell Brand prays during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Michael Knowles takes the stage during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Daily Wire Co-Founder & The Ben Shapiro Show Host Ben Shapiro speaks during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Daily Wire Co-Founder & The Ben Shapiro Show Host Ben Shapiro takes the stage during AmericaFest, the first Turning Point USA summit since the death of Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix, Arizona, on Dec. 18, 2025. Tucker Carlson speaks during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Tucker Carlson speaks during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Russell Brand takes the stage during AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 18, 2025. Megyn Kelly, Steve Bannon, more GOP leaders at Turning Point summit 1 of 19 Notable conservative figures and thousands of GOP faithful gathered in Arizona for Turning Points annual AmericaFest conference this week. The four-day event marks Turning Points first conference since its co-founder, Charlie Kirk, was shot and killed by an assassins bullet. See the most memorable images inside the event at Phoenix Convention Center, starting here with Tucker Carlson. Bannon has already served his four-month prison sentence for his 2022 conviction for contempt of Congress, after the Supreme Court in 2024 rejected his bid to remain free while he appealed. Now, Bannon wants the Supreme Court to overturn his conviction. Responding to Bannons appeal, the Justice Department told the Supreme Court it has asked the district court to toss out the conviction. Accordingly, the Supreme Court should send the case back to the district court to consider dismissal, the Justice Department said. Advertisement Advertisement Barbara McQuade, a law professor at the University of Michigan and a former U.S. attorney, said the move sounded political because there was no reason to think an appellate court would overturn the conviction. It strikes me as a purely political move, McQuade told USA TODAY. The Trump administration continues to use the Department of Justice to reward allies and punish critics. It is a disgusting abuse of the rule of law. U.S. President Donald Trump talks to senior staff Steve Bannon during a swearing in ceremony for senior staff at the White House in Washington, DC January 22, 2017. Bannon said he was relying on his lawyer's advice not to respond to the subpoena from a House committee investigating the attack on the Capitol until another issue was resolved: the matter of whether the former White House aide was protected by Trump's claim of executive privilege. That doctrine allows presidents to keep confidential some executive branch communications. House lawyers argued that Bannon had thumbed his nose at the committee and ignored the subpoena. Advertisement Advertisement The committee sought to question Bannon, a political strategist for Trump, partly because he told associates from China on Oct. 31, 2020, that Trump would falsely declare victory even if he lost the election and said it would be a firestorm. In a podcast, Bannon said former Vice President Mike Pence spit the bit, which meant he was no longer supporting Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The committee described the comment as amplifying the pressure on Pence. Bannon called Trump at least twice on Jan. 5, 2021, and predicted on a right-wing talk radio show that "all hell is going to break loose tomorrow." A jury found Bannon guilty of contempt of Congress on two counts because he refused to comply with a lawful congressional subpoena and an appeals court affirmed the convictions. Contributing: Aysha Bagchi This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Justice Department wants Steve Bannon's contempt conviction overturned Kansas Supreme Court Justice K.J. Wall appears on the Kansas Reflector podcast on Jan. 30, 2026 in Topeka. (Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Kansas Supreme Court justices heard from judges around the state who were having difficulty appointing attorneys to criminal cases, where representation is a constitutional guarantee. So former Chief Justice Marla Luckert created in 2022 the Rural Justice Initiative Committee and appointed fellow Justice K.J. Wall as its chair. Advertisement Advertisement We found there was, indeed, a shortage of attorneys across the rural parts of our state, and we were able to put some data behind that and quantify that, he said in an interview on the Kansas Reflector podcast. The committee, which released its first report in 2024, found that around 45% of the states population live in rural areas but 80% of licensed attorneys in Kansas practice in the states five most urban counties. The bottom line is there are not enough attorneys for a significant part of the state, he said. Evidence of a shortage is quantitative and qualitative for Wall, who was raised in the rural community of Scott City. He said he has fond memories of the attorneys in his community as leaders and business owners. Advertisement Advertisement Being from a rural community myself, I understand the impact that it has on a community when we start to lose those leaders, he said. Wall, 55, was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2020. At the time, he was representing rural health care organizations and community mental health centers across Kansas. The shortage of rural health care providers Wall witnessed in that role mirrors the shortage of attorneys he grapples with now, he said. The implications of dwindling attorneys are widespread. Attorneys can act as economic drivers in rural areas, Wall said, facilitating commercial activity, employing community members, assisting local businesses and reinvesting their earnings and time in other local ventures. They help form the fabric of their communities, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Around one-third of active attorneys in the state are over the age of 60, the committee found. We know that in the coming years that they will be exiting out of the profession, and rural counties are more particularly impacted by that demographic dynamic, Wall said. In response, the committee has looked to younger generations. The committee interviewed law school students at Washburn University in Topeka and the University of Kansas School of Law in Lawrence, attempting to identify what compels recent graduates to practice in rural areas or avoid them. Recent law school grads bear massive debt loads, Wall said. They also worry about access to mentorship, housing and health care in rural communities, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Those barriers were really significant, Wall said, and were a deterrence to having these students explore those rural opportunities. But students also said they would be more inclined to pursue rural jobs if financial incentives were attached. Part of the committees work involved identifying solutions. The committee came up with 10 recommendations to address the financial, professional and cultural factors that contribute to a shortage of rural attorneys. Two pieces of proposed legislation arose as a result. One would create a student loan reimbursement program for law school students and graduates who are willing to set up shop in rural Kansas. The other took inspiration from successful programs for rural physicians and veterinarians. It proposes a rural attorney training program for students who promise to practice in rural areas in exchange for tuition coverage. Advertisement Advertisement At least two of the committees recommendations are already underway. The judicial branch made the committee permanent. We understand that this is an issue, and were committed to addressing it, and thats why we created a standing committee based on the recommendation of the Rural Justice Initiative, he said. The initiative has also begun to foster a network of rural attorneys, working to meet the recommendation to create a professional association. Washburn University, with a grant from the Patterson Family Foundation, created such a network and expanded an internship program so law students can be paid to work summers in rural parts of Kansas. The rural justice issue is part of a greater ethos among the current court to prioritize accessibility. Advertisement Advertisement Access to justice is a larger issue, Wall said, because even if attorney numbers improve in rural Kansas, not everyone can afford them. The rural justice initiative and a number of others in the judicial branch exist to ensure that no matter your background, profession or interest that youre going to be treated fairly and youre going to be able to access and maneuver through our court systems on an equal footing, Wall said. Legendary Republican operative Karl Rove warned the GOP that it is in danger of losing the Senate in the upcoming midterm elections during a weekend hit on Fox News. Roves comments followed a query from Journal Editorial Report host Paul Gigot. Im beginning to hear, Karl that theres real concern among senators that the Republicans are now going to have to fight much harder than they thought to retain control of the Senate in November, Gigot began. I mean, theres already a certain, you know, negativity about the House given the normal midterm sway. But the Senate, I dont know, how vulnerable are Republicans here? Advertisement Advertisement Rove replied: Well, it could be close. I mean, first of all, remember, we have Maine is critical to us. The reelection of Susan Collins, she ran-, she won by nine points while Trump was losing the state by nine. Thats-, think about that, one out of-, nearly one out every five Maine voters six years ago voted for the Democrat for president and the Republican for the U.S. Senate. Thats really unusual, thats going to be a tough race. Rove continued: We need to-, North Carolina is going to a tough race. Thom Tillis is retiring. The Republicans have got a nice guy named Michael Whatley running. The Democrats have got the former two-term Democratic governor, and before that he was the state attorney general. Not going to be an easy race. Weve got to try and knock off Georgia. We got an opportunity in Michigan. The Democrats have now got the only person who might have a shot at Alaska. And then we got Texas, where if John Cornyn is the nominee, the Republicans will have an easy race, but if they have a guy whos got all kinds of problems, including three girlfriends, Ken Paxton, the attorney general, it could be a really-, it could be a real mess. So yes, the Republicans cannot take the Senate for granted, theyve got to worry about it, and again, the economic messaging cannot only be from the White House. The Republican candidates themselves, whether theyre in office or trying to get in office, have to have a concerted attention to this and they have to the right messaging and the right attitude. One new University of Houston survey suggests that Paxton, the scandal-bedeviled attorney general, currently boasts a healthy, 7-point lead over Cornyn, the incumbent senator, in the Lone Star States Republican primary. Watch above via Fox News. The post Karl Rove Warns GOP It Has to Worry About Losing the Senate in Midterms And Real Mess in Texas first appeared on Mediaite. KHARTOUM, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Sudan announced Monday that it will fully resume its activities within the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), ending a diplomatic freeze that began more than two years ago. The Sudanese Foreign Ministry stated in a press release that the decision to rejoin the East African bloc followed a "positive" overture from the IGAD Secretariat. The ministry noted that the organization had reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation, non-interference, and the recognition of Sudan's sovereignty. The move marks a major shift for Sudan. On Jan. 20, 2024, the country suspended its IGAD membership, accusing the bloc of overstepping by placing the Sudanese crisis on a summit agenda without prior consultation. The day before, IGAD had invited Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to a high-level meeting in Uganda. At the end of this January, IGAD issued a communique condemning violations committed by the RSF and reaffirming its support for Sudan's state institutions and territorial integrity. Sudanese officials praised the mediation efforts of Djibouti's President Ismail Omar Guelleh, who currently chairs the bloc. Djibouti's Foreign Ministry characterized Sudan's return as "an important step that will enhance regional cohesion" and bolster collective action among member states. Since April 2023, the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF has been a defining challenge for IGAD. While the bloc established a four-nation monitoring mechanism led by Kenyan President William Ruto, its efforts were frequently stymied by Sudanese military leaders who argued the bloc was biased or ignoring their sovereign concerns. Two towns in eastern Connecticut will receive more than $1.5 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects, according to a community announcement. The town of Killingly will receive $1 million to upgrade its Water Pollution Control Facility, which also serves the town of Brooklyn. The facility is currently at maximum capacity, preventing new sanitary sewer connections for industrial, commercial or residential developments in both towns. Norwich will receive $600,000 to replace the public docks at Howard Brown Park. The docks have surpassed their 30-year expected lifespan, and while the city has already secured funding to replace a portion of the old docks, a section adjacent to the boat launch remains unstable and in need of repair. Congressman Joe Courtney The funding is part of a larger government package that includes over $9.6 million for 10 community projects in Connecticut's Second District. In January, the House and Senate passed over $2.6 million for four more projects in the district, and in November, they passed $1 million for a project in North Stonington. Funding for all 15 projects has now been signed into law. Advertisement Advertisement In the 2026 federal budget process, my office and I worked alongside towns and non-profits in Connecticuts Second District to secure funding for 15 local projects across our region, Congressman Joe Courtney said in the announcement. From public safety to new housing development, job training, and child care expansion, these projects are excellent examples of targeted federal funding coming back to eastern Connecticut that will have wide-reaching benefits for our towns. Community projects are locally supported initiatives identified by Courtney, who pushed for funding as part of the annual federal funding process in Congress. This story was created by reporter Beth McDermott, bmcdermott1@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct. This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Killingly, Norwich land $1.6M for sewer upgrades and dock repairs By Michael Holden LONDON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Buckingham Palace said on Monday it was ready to support any police investigation into King Charles' younger brother after emails suggested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor might have shared confidential British trade documents with Jeffrey Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor, already cast out of the royal inner circle over his close relationship with Epstein, has faced fresh scrutiny since the recent publication of millions of new documents relating to the late convicted U.S. sex offender. Advertisement Advertisement "The king has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct," a palace spokesperson said. ROYAL FAMILY READY TO BACK INVESTIGATION OF ANDREW In the latest files released in the U.S., emails suggest he shared official British trade documents with Epstein in 2010, after Epstein's conviction for child sex crimes, leaking information from his then-role as an official government envoy. The documents appear to show that Andrew forwarded Epstein reports about Vietnam, Singapore and other places, which he had been sent in relation to an official trip. Advertisement Advertisement Trade envoys are usually barred from sharing sensitive or commercial documents. The 65-year-old second son of the late Queen Elizabeth has always denied any wrongdoing and has not responded to requests for comment since the latest release of Epstein files. Thames Valley Police said the issue had been reported to them and that they were assessing whether to formally investigate. The palace added: "While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police, we stand ready to support them as you would expect ... "As was previously stated, their majesties thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse." Advertisement Advertisement The king's son Prince William and his wife Kate had said on Monday they were deeply concerned by the continuing Epstein revelations, in another pointed message from the royal family. "Their thoughts remain focused on the victims," their spokesperson told reporters ahead of the prince's arrival on a high-profile trip to Saudi Arabia. ANDREW AND EPSTEIN AN EMBARRASSMENT FOR KING AND ROYALS Mountbatten-Windsor was forced to quit all official royal duties in 2019 over his ties with Epstein and, in October, King Charles removed his title of prince. Last week, he was forced to move out of his royal mansion. Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, he settled a lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre which accused him of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager, through her association with Epstein. Giuffre died by suicide last April. While the royal family have attempted to distance themselves from Mountbatten-Windsor, he remains a thorn in their side. "Charles, how long have you known about Andrew and Epstein?" a man shouted from the crowd as the king arrived in Clitheroe, northern England, the second time he had been heckled in a week. Last week, police also said they were reviewing a new allegation against Andrew, triggered by the latest files, involving a woman being taken to an address in Windsor near London, where he has lived on the royal estate. Advertisement Advertisement Over the last 10 days, revelations from the files have also engulfed Prime Minister Keir Starmer in what is widely viewed as the biggest crisis of his premiership for having appointed Peter Mandelson, an acquaintance of Epstein, as ambassador to the U.S. Like Andrew, it appears that Mandelson also shared sensitive government files from 2009 and 2010 with Epstein, and police are investigating claims of misconduct in public office. (Reporting by Michael Holden, Sarah Young and Sam Tabahriti; editing by Aidan Lewis and Kevin Liffey) The King has made clear his profound concern at allegations over Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors conduct and will stand ready to support the police if approached over the claims, Buckingham Palace said. Thames Valley Police has said it is assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential reports during his role as trade envoy with the convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The reignited crisis has engulfed both the monarchy and Westminster and shows little sign of abating since the US authorities recent release of millions of documents associated with Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct. While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. As was previously stated, Their Majesties thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse. The reignited crisis over the Epstein files has engulfed both the monarchy and Westminster (WPA Pool/Getty) The Palace has not so far been approached by Thames Valley Police over claims that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement The King was heckled again on Monday over Andrews association with Epstein during a royal visit to Lancashire. As he met well-wishers at Clitheroe train station in Lancashire, a man shouted at Charles: How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Charles appeared not to react, while members of the crowd booed the question. The Prince and Princess of Wales, meanwhile, publicly addressed the Epstein scandal for the first time on Monday. William and Kate said they were deeply concerned at the continued revelations and that their thoughts remain focused on the victims. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Advertisement Advertisement Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The documents sparked allegations made against Williams uncle, Andrew, and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. King County argued Monday in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals that conditions attached to federal funding by the Trump administration are illegal and unconstitutional, according to county officials. During oral arguments in downtown Seattle, attorneys for King County said the directives which target diversity, equity and inclusion programs, immigration policies, LGBTQ+ protections and abortion access improperly attempt to override Congress authority over federal spending. No one is above the law, and the constitution in this case is crystal clear: spending power rests with Congress not the President, King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion said in a statement. We will keep fighting to uphold the constitution and protect the people of King County from illegal federal overreach. Advertisement Advertisement King County Executive Girmay Zahilay said the administrations actions threaten funding that local governments rely on to provide basic services. The Trump administration is weaponizing federal funds to try to coerce cities and counties to compromise on their values and adopt the administrations harmful political ideology, Zahilay said. This is a clear abuse of presidential authority, and it jeopardizes vital funding for housing, health care, transit and other services that our local communities depend on. Here in King County, we are not caving to President Trumps bullying tactics and unlawful threats and will continue to stand up to protect our people and values. At issue are federal grants awarded by Congress for which King County met all required conditions. County officials say the president later attempted to revise those terms to advance federal directives, including requiring local law enforcement agencies to support federal civil immigration efforts. Advertisement Advertisement King County is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit and is joined by more than 70 other local governments, including Boston, Chicago, New York City, Denver, San Francisco, Multnomah County in Oregon, Hennepin County in Minnesota, Columbus, Nashville and Pittsburgh. The lawsuit challenges actions by the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, and Health and Human Services to add grant conditions based on Trump administration executive orders. The case was filed in May 2025. A temporary restraining order was granted, and courts have issued three preliminary injunctions in King Countys favor, blocking the federal government from enforcing the disputed conditions on grants. Advertisement Advertisement County officials say those rulings have allowed King County to receive nearly $165 million in federal grant funding for services such as roads, transit, affordable housing and public health. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals is expected to issue a decision in the case in the coming months. TOKYO (AP) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis big election win paves the way for her ruling party to dominate the crucial lower house of parliament. It also gives her the political power to make a strong rightward shift in Japans security, immigration and social policies. Heres what to know about that divisive conservative agenda, which she calls necessary to make Japan strong and prosperous. Larger military capability, spending and arms sales Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to bolster Japans military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from postwar pacifist principles. Takaichi wants to build up intelligence-gathering to work more closely with ally Washington and defense partners such as Australia and Britain. She plans to establish a national intelligence agency to meet those goals. She is also pushing to enact a highly controversial anti-espionage law that experts say could undermine civil rights. Takaichi has followed through on a pledge to U.S. President Donald Trump to push Japans annual defense budget to double 2022 levels to 2% of its gross domestic product by March. Trump, China and WWII history Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi is set to visit Washington to meet with Trump at the White House on March 19. The U.S. president announced on social media the trip as he endorsed the prime minister ahead of Sundays election. The talks are expected to focus on defense spending, investment commitments under a $550 billion package for Washington that Japan pledged in October, as well as China. Trump will make a trip in April to Beijing to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Takaichis remarks in November suggesting possible Japanese involvement if China takes military action against Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing claims as its own, led to diplomatic and economic reprisals from China. Takaichi, who has gained firmer political clout after the election, could pursue a more hawkish stance with China. This was hinted at when she mentioned her wish to visit Tokyos Yasukuni Shrine, where Japanese war criminals are honored among the 2.5 million war dead. Advertisement Advertisement Takaichi, who used to be a regular visitor to Yasukuni, has stayed away from praying at the shrine since taking office. But on Sunday, during an interview with Fuji Television, Takaichi said she wants to create an environment to allow a Yasukuni visit that can be understood by neighboring countries, which regularly protest when it occurs. Tougher measures on immigration, foreign labor She has also been pushing for tougher policies on immigration and foreigners. This resonates with a growing far-right population that has supported the rise of anti-globalist party Sanseito, which says the LDPs promotion of foreign labor as a solution for Japans declining population is making Japanese communities unsafe and causing cultural clashes. Advertisement Advertisement Her government in January approved tougher rules on permanent residency and naturalization, as well as measures to prevent unpaid tax and social insurance. Preserving traditional family values Takaichi supports the imperial familys male-only succession and opposes same-sex marriage. She is also against a revision to the 19th-century civil law that would allow separate surnames for married couples so that women dont get pressured into abandoning theirs. In a step that rights activists call an attempt to block a dual surname system, Takaichi is calling for a law to allow the greater use of maiden names as aliases instead. Advertisement Advertisement Big government spending, consumption tax cut Her top economic priority is to address rising prices and sluggish wages. And she needs to pass a budget bill for fiscal 2026 to fund those measures. Takaichi advocates boosting government spending despite concerns that such moves will delay progress on trimming Japans national debt, which is about triple the size of its economy. Takaichi last year introduced a crisis-management investment plan in 17 strategic areas such as food, energy, defense and supply chains. She also proposed a temporary sales tax cut. She said in her campaign pledge the government will speed up consideration of suspending an 8% food consumption tax for two years to ease the burden of household living costs. Advertisement Advertisement But her ambiguity over the plan, including how to fund the tax cut, caused unease in financial markets. Japan has the highest national debt among advanced economies. ___ This story has been corrected to show that Yasukuni shrine honors the war dead but does not keep the remains. MOSCOW, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Russia said on Monday the fuel situation in Cuba was critical and U.S. attempts to "suffocate" the island's economy were causing many difficulties, pledging to act against any sort of military intervention and expressing Moscow's solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela. Cuba detailed its plans to navigate the deepening crisis on Friday including protecting essential services and rationing fuel, as the communist-run government dug in its heels in defiance of a U.S. effort to cut off oil supplies. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has declared Cuba "an unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security and said it will no longer receive oil from Venezuela after the U.S. operation to capture its leader Nicolas Maduro last month. It has threatened to impose tariffs on other suppliers like Mexico if they continue to ship fuel to the island. Advertisement Advertisement "The situation in Cuba is indeed critical. We are aware of this. We are maintaining intensive contacts with our Cuban friends through diplomatic and other channels," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Russia is trying to restore its own battered ties with the United States as Trump seeks to broker a deal to end its war in Ukraine. But the Kremlin made clear it was unhappy with Washington's treatment of Cuba. "The suffocating tactics employed by the United States are indeed causing many difficulties for the country. We are discussing with our Cuban friends possible ways to resolve these problems, or at least to provide all possible assistance," said Peskov. Peskov was answering a question about jet fuel shortages and whether that might affect Russian tourists wanting to leave Cuba, a long-time ally of Moscow's. Advertisement Advertisement Cuba warned international airlines that jet fuel would no longer be available on the island beginning on Tuesday. Air Canada said on Monday it was suspending flights to Cuba. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in a message marking the day of diplomatic workers in Russia, said Moscow sought to build relations with developing countries. "The focus remains on countering neo-colonial practices, from unilateral coercive measures to military interventions," Lavrov wrote on his ministry's website. "In this context, we reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Venezuela and Cuba. We are convinced that only they can determine their own destiny." Advertisement Advertisement Russia's ambassador to Cuba, Viktor Coronelli, told the state RIA news agency last week that Moscow had repeatedly supplied oil to Cuba in recent years, and would continue to do so. (Reporting by Reuters, Writing by Felix LightEditing by Andrew Osborn and Ron Popeski) A group of Lake Worth Beach residents trying to stop construction of a downtown museum and apartments sued the city on Feb. 3, claiming it illegally spent Palm Beach County sales tax money to get the project built. The lawsuit argues a city agency broke state law by buying land downtown with more than $1.6 million in sales-tax revenue meant for public parking, then selling the site to a developer for $10 to build an art museum and apartments. The nonprofit group Lake Worth For All, led by former City Commissioner Kim Stokes, filed the lawsuit in Palm Beach County Circuit Court. Mayor Betty Resch and interim City Manager Jamie Brown declined to comment on Feb. 4. Lawsuit: Lake Worth CRA used sales-tax money meant for parking to buy land The sales tax money came from a one-penny increase to the county sales tax that voters approved in 2016 and that expired at the end of 2025. The money was meant either to fix or replace school buildings, roads and other public facilities countywide. Advertisement Advertisement Lake Worth Beach commissioners in 2018 approved giving money the city received from the tax to the city's Community Redevelopment Agency. The CRA used that money to buy about 2 acres downtown on Lake Avenue, mostly between South K and M streets, from the city government. The core of the downtown Lake Worth Beach plan involves the city to donate 1.7 acres to the Wiener Museums development company, United Management. The property, valued by the city at about $3.3 million, is at the southwest corner of Lake Avenue and South M Street. Lake Worth For All's lawsuit argues the CRA was supposed to build parking lots on the site, and if it could not, it must return the land to the city government. The CRA instead sold it for $10 to New York developer Anthony Wiener to build the Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts, a ceramics and glass studio museum. This is a blatant abuse of the 'penny sales tax' funds that the voters approved for education and infrastructure only," Lake Worth For All attorney Robert Hartsell said in a prepared statement. "The voters absolutely did not contemplate that their hard-earned tax dollars would be used to fund a development of market rate housing. Lake Worth For All wants courts to invalidate museum land deal Lake Worth For All wants the courts to invalidate the agreements between the city, the CRA and Wiener. Advertisement Advertisement In a prepared statement on Feb. 4, Stokes said the city's elected leaders sidestepped voters by selling the land to the CRA. If the City Commission wanted to sell the downtown land directly to Wiener, the deal would have been put before voters citywide, she said. The remedy is simple: Put it on the ballot," Stokes said. The WMODA project includes 110 apartments and an $8.5 million public parking garage on K Street, to which Wiener agreed to contribute $1 million. Email news tips and ideas to Chris Persaud at cpersaud@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Lake Worth Beach sued over sales tax money for downtown museum The recommendations of Ronen Bar and Herzi Halevi came following particularly urgent and serious intelligence warnings about Hamas preparing for combat in Gaza, Lapid said. Opposition leaderYair Lapid said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu falsified official security protocols in the days leading up to the October 7, 2023, massacre and called for a criminal investigation during a Yesh Atid faction meeting on Monday. Lapid cited a situation assessment from the Prime Ministers Office dated October 1, 2023, six days before the Hamas-led attacks. He said that then-Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar recommended preparing for a series of escalation scenarios in Gaza, and that then-IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi advised preparing an operational plan in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Advertisement The recommendations of Ronen Bar and Herzi Halevi came following particularly urgent and serious intelligence warnings about Hamas preparing for combat in Gaza, Lapid said. Lapid went on to describe a document associated with Netanyahu as falsifying official protocols. The Netanyahu document constitutes a falsification of security protocols in an official document issued from the Prime Ministers Office, in a way that must have been intentional, he said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee meeting at the Knesset, in Jerusalem, February 5, 2026 (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90) Lapid: Netanyahu violated the law He added, The problem is not that Netanyahu lies. That he lies is not exactly news. What is happening here is much more serious. Deliberate editing of protocols from security discussions is a violation of the Official Secrets Law. Lapid then said he sent letters to senior security and legal officials requesting answers. Today I sent a letter to the Security Supervisor in the security system, the legal advisor of the Prime Ministers Office, and the legal advisor of the Ministry of Defense demanding answers. Based on the answers received, the Shin Bet and the police will need to decide whether to open a criminal investigation, and against whom, he said. A bill moving through the Indiana General Assembly could enact drastic governance changes for Indianapolis Public Schools. (Photo by Casey Smith/Indiana Capital Chronicle) In recent years and again this session the Republican supermajority has pushed legislation that rewrites how certain local school systems are governed, and in some cases dictates whether some can exist at all. The shift has fueled growing debate at the Statehouse over where state oversight ends and local control begins. Advertisement Advertisement Indiana lawmakers eliminated direct state takeovers of underperforming public schools in 2021, moving away from an era when the State Board of Education could install outside managers or strip authority entirely from elected boards based on academic performance. Instead, the state now largely relies on increased public reporting, data dashboards and a revised accountability framework thats slated to take effect later this year. House Bill 1423, authored by Rep. Bob Behning, R-Indianapolis, would create a mayor-led municipal body to oversee transportation and facilities for both traditional public schools and charter schools in Indianapolis. (Photo by Casey Smith/Indiana Capital Chronicle) Even so, lawmakers are still seeking to address financial strain, enrollment declines and operational challenges through district-specific legislation. Critics say the proposals bypass existing tools and reshape governance structures in ways that reduce or eliminate direct voter oversight of public schools. The latest example is House Bill 1423, which would create a new, state-authorized governance entity to oversee transportation and facilities for Indianapolis Public Schools and charter schools operating in the city. Advertisement Advertisement The bill already passed the House and is now making its way through the Senate. Committee discussions have drawn hours of public testimony and debate over whether lawmakers are exerting too much control over public education. Bill author Rep. Bob Behning, R-Indianapolis, emphasized that his proposal wouldnt dissolve IPS or its elected board and that elected members school board commissioners will continue to provide the direction of operation of all district-run schools, like they do already. He said the bill is primarily intended to address access not governance especially for families navigating charter school options without reliable transportation. I personally believe that choice is only a choice if you can figure out how to get there, Behning said. Advertisement Advertisement And while a separate proposal targeting South Bend collapsed earlier this session, opponents continue to worry that lawmakers are increasingly turning to outright governance changes for struggling districts removing or reducing authority from locally elected boards in the process. I think were setting a precedent for the whole state of Indiana that the General Assembly, that if you dont like your school district, tomorrow it will be Richmond, Indiana. It will be Evansville, it will be Fort Wayne, said Sen. Fady Qaddoura, D-Indianapolis. I think this is a dangerous precedent. A growing legislative footprint Indianas retreat from formal school takeovers followed years of controversy surrounding state interventions in Gary and Muncie, where lawmakers in 2017 stripped locally elected boards of key powers and installed outside managers to stabilize districts facing severe financial distress. Those moves sparked protests and lawsuits but were defended by state leaders as necessary to prevent collapse. Advertisement Advertisement Since then, however, lawmakers have preferred one-off legislation to address perceived failures in individual districts. During the 2025 session, for example, the General Assembly voted to dissolve the Union School Corporation by 2027. State legislators later said they put Union on the chopping block because of poor performance. The elimination language was tucked into a sweeping property tax overhaul and adopted with no warning or public debate. The move ordered the closure of the districts in-person schools and will force roughly 300 students to attend neighboring districts miles away. Those recent legislative steps have shaped how lawmakers and advocates now view the IPS proposal either as a narrowly tailored solution or as another move toward state-directed governance. Advertisement Advertisement The bill would create the Indianapolis Public Education Corporation, a mayor-led municipal entity charged with overseeing transportation and facilities for both traditional public schools and charter schools in Indianapolis. Its board would be appointed, not elected, with seats designated for charter leaders, IPS representatives and individuals with professional expertise. Supporters say the proposal reflects months of collaboration through the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance, a panel convened to study the districts long-term sustainability amid declining enrollment and rising costs and that it stops short of a state takeover. House Speaker Rep. Todd Huston, R-Fishers, said the legislation followed months of local discussion and formal recommendations. Im a strong supporter of strong, stable IPS, he said. I think this new governance model and the cooperation between the mayor and the board and other schools, I think is a way to make sure that we have a strong IPS. Advertisement Advertisement The House speaker maintained that lawmakers intentionally followed that panels guidance and said he was super impressed by the process used by Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and IPS Superintendent Aleesia Johnson. He emphasized, too, that lawmakers have continued to consult stakeholders as the bill moves forward. Weve tried to stay with the recommendations 8-1 recommendations of the committee and we continue to have those conversations with all the parties, Huston said. A new model, or an unelected takeover? But opponents argue the bill effectively shifts power away from an elected school board and concentrates it in an appointed body with limited public accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Democratic lawmakers have repeatedly warned that the legislation weakens local representation and sets a precedent for legislative interference in district governance. Rep. Cherrish Pryor, D-Indianapolis, criticized the proposal as removing public accountability and said the bill takes decision-making away from people who are elected by voters and replaces it with people who are not. She added that the legislation treats Indianapolis differently from other communities and tells Indianapolis that their voice matters less. Rep. Cherrish Pryor, D-Indianapolis, speaks in a legislative committee on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (Photo by Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) Its not clear whether or not that body can actually have power or supersede the power of that elected school board, Pryor said. Whats the purpose of having an elected school board if youre going to bring in another authority that might be able to have power over that body that was elected by the people? Advertisement Advertisement If we really want to help IPS, lets give them the funding that they need and stop picking on IPS and changing the goal post year after year after year, she added. I just think this is a horrible bill. The House ultimately approved the bill 68-30 along party lines, sending it to the Senate. Behning argued the measure is designed to avoid more severe intervention down the road. Theyre heading toward a fiscal cliff, he said of IPS. We dont want to be taking over another school district. Weve got to find resolution to that. Debate resumed last week in the Senate Education and Career Development Committee, where supporters again framed the proposal as a pragmatic response to Indianapolis size and complexity particularly around families access to transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Parents and advocates testified that inconsistent or unavailable bussing has limited families school choices and contributed to inequities between traditional and charter schools. When buses are unreliable or buildings are not properly maintained, families are left with limited choices. Parents ask for help, they wait for improvements, and they hope the system will respond, said Ada Lemus, an IPS parent supporting the bill. House Bill 1423 is about accountability and access. Its about ensuring students can get to school safely and learn in buildings that support their success. Critics, however, questioned why lawmakers were pursuing a new governance structure rather than relying on existing accountability laws or allowing the district to resolve issues internally. House Bill 1423 is about accountability and access. It's about ensuring students can get to school safely and learn in buildings that support their success. Ada Lemus, an Indianapolis Public Schools parent Several speakers argued the bill creates a parallel intervention system driven by legislative judgment rather than academic benchmarks or voter input. Sen. Andrea Hunley, D-Indianapolis, a former school principal, warned that the proposal risks destabilizing communities already coping with school closures and enrollment losses. When I read this 115-page bill, it feels to me like were creating a school district, Hunley said. This is a very complicated way to create a governance structure that, right now, we call a school board. The committee has not yet taken action on the bill, but amendments and a vote to advance it to the full Senate could come as soon as this week. Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray, R-Martinsville, acknowledged concerns but said Indianapolis presents unique challenges. IPS in Marion County is a much bigger system sometimes, maybe, some people think that has to be dealt with differently, Bray said. He emphasized that discussions around IPS began months before the session and were aimed at improving both financial stability and student outcomes. Theyre just trying something they think will be very helpful, Bray said. South Bend bill withdrawn, but debate lingers Tension surrounding appointed governance was also on display earlier this session with Senate Bill 248, a proposal that would have replaced the elected school board of the South Bend Community School Corporation with an appointed governing body selected through a process involving the Indiana secretary of education. Authored by Sen. Linda Rogers, R-Granger, the bill applied only to South Bend. Rogers told the Senate Education Committee that the district faced declining enrollment, underutilized buildings and facilities, academic performance well below the state and community averages, as well as financial instability and high chronic absenteeism. Sen. Linda Rogers, R-Granger, speaks in committee on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (Photo by Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) There are two out of five students who are chronically absent, Rogers said. Thats a problem. She also pointed to public disclosures that some 2,500 student grades had been manipulated across district high schools in recent years, as well as ongoing State Board of Accounts investigations into financial wrongdoing. I dont look at this as a government takeover, Rogers said. All school board meetings are public all the financial data is public information and all the academic information is public. The bill drew intense opposition. This bill is an overreach and premature in timing, said Terry Spradlin, executive director of the Indiana School Boards Association, adding that school boards and local voters should maintain the authority to change the local reorganization plan, including the composition of the board. Jeanette McCullough, the at-large president of the South Bend Community School Corporation and an ISBA board member, warned that Rogers proposal would strip residents of their ability to hold school leaders accountable. Public schools are funded by the public, serve the public and should be governed by representatives chosen by the public, McCullough said. An appointed board removes that direct accountability. Advisory boards can be ignored, she continued. Elected boards cannot. Rachel Burke with the Indiana Parent and Teacher Association called the proposal absolutely a governmental takeover of schools and argued that it would strip the community of its voting rights. This is a fundamental principle of what we are as a country, she said. Rogers ultimately withheld the bill from a vote. After hearing the testimony this week, I agree that this is not the right solution at this time, she said in a written statement, adding that she plans to continue working with local stakeholders to address the districts challenges. I am dedicated to ensuring the success of our Hoosier children. I want them to receive the best possible education so they can be successful in all their future endeavors. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A South Florida lawyer says documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act suggest "occult activity" took place on the deceased Palm Beach financier's private island a claim that mirrors conspiracy theories spreading online in the wake of the most recent upload. Attorney Travis Walker, who filed a federal lawsuit against Jeffrey Epstein's estate in January on behalf of a woman identified as Jane Doe, declined to provide specifics but described the purported cult as religious, "sinister" and involving sex trafficking. "It's definitely not Christianity," he said. "It's something different." Advertisement Advertisement Walker said he intends to do "a deeper dive with regards to the actual activities that were ongoing" at the island as the lawsuit proceeds. He offered to share documents supporting the cult claims but had not done so by Feb. 6. Attorney Jack Scarola, who has represented nearly 20 Epstein survivors and spent 18 years litigating cases against the pedophile, said he's never encountered evidence of religious occult practices. What survivors need now is "total transparency and facts," he said. "Not speculation fueled by an appetite for sensationalism." Did Epstein run a cult? What the files say The word "occult" appears in the Epstein files only in relation to medical testing specifically, occult blood testing, a routine medical procedure not spiritual or religious practices. Advertisement Advertisement However, conspiracy theories about Epstein and occult practices have proliferated online since the document release. They stem largely from a 2009 document that appears to contain the word "Baal," the name of an ancient Canaanite deity historically associated with child sacrifice. The document is a JPMorgan internal memo showing a wire transfer request for an Epstein account. On a line typically reserved for bank information, the scanned text reads "Baal.name" followed by "Wachovia Bank." Social media users quickly claimed this was evidence that Epstein had named a bank account after Baal, suggesting occult worship. But others concluded that "baal.name" was most likely "bank name," erroneously transposed during document scanning. Conspiracy theorists have pointed to other details in the Epstein files as evidence of the occult. One email exchange suggests Epstein had three pieces of Kiswa the sacred black and gold cloth that covers Islam's holiest shrine in Mecca, Saudi Arabia shipped to the him in 2017. The files don't explain why Epstein sought the items or what he did with them. Sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's house in Palm Beach in a July 2019 photo. The house was subsequently demolished. Rick Alan Ross, who has studied cults for four decades, said claims of satanic and occult practices tied to sexual abuse have frequently proven baseless, including during the "Satanic Panic" of the 1980s. Advertisement Advertisement "Over the past 40 years, claims that I have received concerning destructive satanic and occult practices have overwhelmingly lacked any objective evidence and instead relied upon anecdotal stories," said Ross, founder of the Cult Education Institute. While Epstein may have used coercive control techniques to manipulate victims including social isolation, gaslighting and control of information Ross said he has seen no evidence Epstein ran a religious cult "though there are most probably aspects of his ongoing manipulation, which may have been 'cult like.'" Law enforcement investigators have described Epstein's sex-trafficking operation as "cultlike" in its structure, resembling a pyramid scheme where victims were recruited and then became recruiters themselves. However, no agency has indicated Epstein ran an actual religious or ideological cult. Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: As theories on Epstein files spread, lawyer suggests occult activity KABUL, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least three people were killed and three others injured in a traffic accident on the Jalalabad-Torkham highway on Sunday evening, according to a statement from the Nangarhar provincial police office. The collision occurred in the Samarkhail area when a passenger vehicle collided with a tanker on the highway linking Jalalabad, capital of eastern Nangarhar province, to the Torkham border crossing point. The crash resulted in three fatalities at the spot and left three others wounded, said the statement. The injured were transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment. Authorities have urged drivers to strictly adhere to traffic regulations to prevent further loss of life. A thick sheet of ice covers Malcolm Street in the Kingsessing section of Philadelphia, the result of a leaking fire hydrant nearby as bitter cold temperatures continue to strain the city's infrastructure. The icy conditions on the 5300 block of Malcolm Street are just one of many examples playing out across the city this winter. "Look at this. Come on now," one resident said. Neighbors say the hydrant at 54th Street and Whitby Avenue has been leaking for days, creating dangerous conditions and leaving residents frustrated by what they describe as a lack of response from the city. Advertisement Advertisement "Water was running all night long," said resident Robert Allen. Lamar Washington said the water is still leaking and turning the block into an ice rink. "It started from the fire hydrant. If you ride past, it's still leaking," Washington said. Washington said the icy conditions have left residents feeling trapped, particularly those with mobility challenges. "My step-pop, he's old. Like, you can't even get out. He's in a wheelchair. How are you gonna roll him? People can't even park," he said. In Kensington, residents are dealing with a similar situation. Advertisement Advertisement "Saturday night, the fire hydrant started to leak water," said Chris Barba, who lives on the 2600 block of Agate Street. Barba said the area has been an icy mess for more than a week, with freezing temperatures undoing attempts to divert the water. "The storm drain that we made a channel through, you can't really see anymore. It's frozen, and the water is now pushing onto the street, and it's trying to push up on these houses. So we are a bit nervous," Barba said. In Tioga-Nicetown, crews with the Philadelphia Water Department worked to repair a water main break on the 1700 block of West Bristol Street. Some residents there were left without water and heat, while cars became stuck in ice. Advertisement Advertisement Residents said the conditions have made it difficult - and in some cases impossible - to get out. "We have nothing. We have nothing," said Yolanda McFadden of Tioga-Nicetown. "We have people coming down the street slipping and sliding, and we just need this fixed," she said. By Saturday afternoon, residents on Agate Street said the city had addressed the situation, shutting off water and working to clear the ice. Action News reached out to the Philadelphia Water Department about the incident in Kingsessing. Officials said they are looking into it. A Lebanese party with an armed wing has accused Israel of abducting one of its members during a cross-border raid in southern Lebanon. The al-Jamaa al-Islamiya accused Israel on Monday of seizing its official Atwi Atwi from his home in the Hasbaiyya district and taking him to an unknown location. Al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, which has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks against Israel during the war with Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, condemned infiltration by Israeli forces. Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, the Israeli military said that, following intelligence indications gathered in recent weeks, Israeli soldiers conducted a targeted raid and apprehended a senior terrorist. The man was transferred for further questioning in Israeli territory, the army added, accusing al-Jamaa al-Islamiya of having launched attacks against the State of Israel and its civilians in the north. Lebanons state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that Israeli troops entered the area at about 4am (02:00 GMT) before abducting Atwi, who is a former mayor of the village of al-Habbariyeh. In a statement issued late on Monday, Hezbollah condemned the serious aggression carried out by Israeli forces to abduct Atwi Atwi from his home. Advertisement Advertisement This dangerous development signals the beginning of a new phase of Israeli aggression and lawlessness, based on incursions, kidnappings, and abductions, which exposes all the people of southern Lebanon to direct danger and places them under constant threat, it said in a statement, calling on the Lebanese government to take deterrent measures. Israel has frequently carried out military operations in southern Lebanon despite a November 2024 ceasefire aimed at ending more than a year of fighting with Hezbollah. Hezbollah lawmaker Hussein Hajj Hassan said last month that Israel was holding 20 Lebanese prisoners, alleging 10 had been abducted inside Lebanese territory after the ceasefire. Israeli attacks on Lebanon kill four, including security officer and child Separately on Monday, three people, including a child, were killed in an Israeli air raid in southern Lebanon, Lebanese media reported. Advertisement Advertisement The attack targeted a vehicle in the centre of Yanouh town in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon, the NNA reported. The Israeli military said the strike targeted Ahmad Ali Salami, who it alleged was Hezbollahs head of artillery and had been working to restore the groups capabilities. In addition to Salami, the attack killed a member of Lebanons security forces and his three-year-old child, who were passing by, according to the NNA. The Israeli military said the incident was under review after it was made aware of the claim that uninvolved civilians were killed. Later on Monday, the Health Ministry reported that Israeli gunfire killed one person in the border village of Aita al-Shaab, with the Israeli military saying it killed a Hezbollah member. Advertisement Advertisement It alleged he was gathering intelligence on [Israeli] troops and operated to rehabilitate Hezbollahs terrorist infrastructure in southern Lebanon. In addition to recurring attacks, the Israeli army still has troops deployed on five border positions in Lebanon that it deems strategic. Under the terms of the November 2024 ceasefire, Israeli forces were to withdraw from Lebanese territory while Hezbollah was to withdraw fighters from south of the Litani River, about 27km (17 miles) north of the border with Israel, and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure there. A panel discussion involving scientists and public policy experts who will consider the potential benefits and negative effects of artificial intelligence (AI) will be presented on Tuesday evening, Feb. 10, in Oak Ridge. The program titled, Railroads, Radio and Artificial Intelligence, will address the question, What lessons can we learn from our experience with past disruptive technologies to help us prepare for the uses of AI? Members of the panel will be Stephen Streiffer, director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Lynne Parker, associate vice chancellor emerita at the University of Tennessee, former principal deputy director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and former founder of the AI Tennessee Initiative; William Lyons, professor emeritus at UT and associate director at the Institute of American Civics at the Howard Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs at UT, and Ashley Stowe, chief research and university partnerships officer at Oak Ridge Associated Universities. Advertisement Advertisement The panel moderator will be Alan Lowe, executive director of the American Museum of Science and Energy and the Atomic History Campus at the K-25 site. The 90-minute program is free to the public. It will be presented at Pollard Auditorium, Oak Ridge Associated Universities, 210 Badger Ave. Light refreshments will be offered at 5 p.m., and the program will begin at 6 p.m. This conversation on AI will be the first of four 2026 presentations of Our American Roots. The event will be streamed on Zoom starting at 5:45 p.m. You can join the Zoom meeting at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83629043986. "Our American Roots" is produced by the Oak Ridge Breakfast Rotary Club together with the Oak Ridge Institute for Continued Learning to help build bridges between cultures and communities. Sponsors this year include the American Museum of Science and Energy Foundation, ORAU and Periodic Tables of Oak Ridge. Find out about the next "Our American Roots" talks in this story. Alan Lowe William Lyons Ashley Stowe Stephen Streiffer Advertisement Advertisement This article originally appeared on Oakridger: Preparing for the use of AI is topic for Oak Ridge panel at free program Yisrael Beytenu chairperson Avigdor Liberman says taxpayer money is being used to supply electricity and water in the Strip. Yisrael Beytenu chairperson Avigdor Liberman visited the Kerem Shalom border crossing on Monday, where he said Israel was funding Hamas and allowing the terror group to rebuild by sending humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. I look around and see countless trucks, and the truth must be told to the public: these trucks are funding Hamass military build-up, he said. Footage showed Liberman in front of trucks at the crossing. He was also joined by members of his party, MK Yulia Malinovsky, and MK Sharon Nir, who said they blocked the entry of humanitarian aid trucks. Advertisement Advertisement Activists from Tzav 9, an organization that protests the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, were at the crossing as well. The group called on all members of Knesset to join them in blocking the entry of aid. Liberman said that taxpayer money was being used to supply electricity and water in the Strip. Armed men seen secure trucks loaded with Humanitarian Aid entering Gaza through the Israeli Kerem Shalom Crossing, in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, September 19, 2025. (credit: SAEED MOHAMMED/FLASH90) Reconstruction has already begun in practice. The electricity and water that the State of Israel continues to supply, together with the flow of goods and equipment, are all funded by Israeli citizens and at the expense of the Israeli taxpayer, he said. The October 7 government is returning to exactly the same concept, once again endangering the security of Israels citizens. Advertisement Advertisement He added that what was being seen was a "recipe for the next disaster." Rehabilitating the Gaza Strip before disarming Hamas is simply lawlessness, and it is a return to the very concept that brought us to October 7, Liberman said while standing at the crossing. Prime Minister Netanyahu called for the disarmament of Hamas as part of Phase II of the US ceasefire plan after the IDF located the remains of the last hostage held in Hamas captivity in January. Humanitarian aid has been delivered to the Strip as part of phase I of the ceasefire plan agreed upon in October 2025. No obligation to maintain the 600-truck pace in Phase II, IDF says The IDF was obligated to send 600 trucks per day into Gaza as part of Phase I of the deal, partly to restore long-term food security and partly to build goodwill with the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement The food aid going into Gaza is provided and funded by third parties and international NGOs. Israel then facilitates its entry into the Strip. IDF sources contended on January 29 that there was no obligation to maintain the 600-truck pace in Phase II, which is far above the pre-war average of closer to 200 trucks per day. International NGOs have also tired of keeping up to such a pace. The IDF added that almost all trucks that enter Gaza above the 200 point, and certainly up at levels like 600, are taken by Hamas and used to solidify its control of the Strip. Before the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, goods were transferred into Gaza predominantly through Kerem Shalom, including gas and fuel officially designated for civilian use. Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the war, additional crossings were opened at various times to allow humanitarian aid to enter the enclave, with Kissufim and Zikim among those that later became operational, in addition to Kerem Shalom. Yonah Jeremy Bob and Sarah Ben-Nun contributed to this report. Lithuania has launched a new fundraising campaign to support Ukrainian troops, aiming to purchase robotic systems for battlefield protection and medical evacuation. Source: LRT, a Lithuanian public broadcaster, as reported by European Pravda Details: The Radarom! campaign was initiated by Lithuania's public broadcaster LRT together with Blue/Yellow, Laisves TV and Stiprus kartu. The funds raised will be used to purchase tracked robotic platforms that can be equipped with machine-gun turrets featuring AI-based target detection and recognition systems or electronic warfare and reconnaissance equipment. The list also includes robots for casualty evacuation and cargo transport, reconnaissance and battlefield management drones, long-range drones and interceptor drones. Advertisement Advertisement The cost of one set of robotic systems is up to 250,000. LRT Director General Monika Garbaciauskaite-Budriene thanked businesses and residents who have joined the initiative. "People know about this campaign we have repeatedly seen cases where donations come from both children and elderly people," Garbaciauskaite-Budriene said. She also urged businesses to join the fundraiser. Blue/Yellow head Jonas Ohman said Lithuania would purchase robotic systems for Ukraine capable of operating both on the ground and in the air. "The hot phase of the war has been going on for the fourth year already. Every day we work with units and soldiers and see a clear trend that warfare is becoming increasingly robotic. Robots perform various functions from evacuation and logistics to combat operations all of this is done by robots, drones and robotic platforms," Ohman said. Advertisement Advertisement He noted that by helping Ukraine acquire robotic systems, Lithuania itself can better understand changes in modern warfare. The Radarom! fundraiser will run from 9 February to 24 February. Background: In January, another Radarom! campaign in Lithuania concluded, resulting in the transfer of drones and related equipment worth nearly 6 million to Ukrainian troops. On 22 July, the Lithuanian Radarom! campaign purchased more than two thousand drones for Ukraine's defence forces. In September, it was reported that the Dronaton charity campaign in support of Ukraine, initiated by the Blue/Yellow non-governmental organisation, raised 1 million for drones. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A New Hampshire woman was sentenced to probation for her role in illegal cockfighting activities in New Hampshire and North Carolina, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan said. Jennifer Scott, 42, was ordered to pay a fine of $2,500, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan said in a statement on Friday. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea Johnstone handed down Scotts sentence. As a term of her probation, Scott is prohibited from owning or raising roosters or chickens. Advertisement Advertisement In October 2025, Scott pleaded guilty to one count of attending an animal fighting venture. According to court documents, Scott had been using her property in New Hampshire to raise and train roosters for cockfighting. On several occasions, she transported roosters to North Carolina, where she traded them and had them participate in illegal cockfighting events, prosecutors said. During a search warrant executed on Scotts property, law enforcement recovered sparring muffs used to train roosters for cockfighting, a sparring aid used to entice roosters to attack the simulated opponent, 76 roosters, 84 hens, 261 juvenile chickens, and an egg incubator. Advertisement Advertisement Scott participated in a multistate cockfighting venture and profited from animal cruelty, Creegan said. The conduct was extensive, involving networks of participants at multiple locations in North Carolina, as well as scores of animals, Creegan said. Scotts sentence stands as a warning to those who participate in and fuel the market for this brutal conduct, Creegan said. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Love Island star Maura Higgins has landed her first movie role in a "feel-good road trip comedy". Set in Omagh, Northern Ireland, The Spin follows Dermot and Elvis, two music lovers struggling to keep their record shop above water. "Facing an unpaid rent bill and their vicious landlord Sadie, who's eager to get them out of her building, the pair stumble across a deal too good to be true: rare, vintage records of blues legend Robert Johnson for sale in Cork at a knock-down price," reads the synopsis. "If they can make it to the other end of Ireland in time, then maybe they could get the rare vinyl, and save the shop" Advertisement Advertisement With only two days to reach their destination, the pair embark on a "beautiful" but chaotic journey, and make some unlikely friends along the way. Directed by Michael Head, the plot is based on a semi-autobiographical short story by Omagh musician Mark McCausland, who also created the movie's soundtrack. Foxsake Films Related: UK film release dates Higgins, who recently appeared on The Traitors US, will be starring opposite leads Brenock O'Connor and Owen Colgan, as well as Derry Girls actors Tara Lynne O'Neill and Leah O'Rourke. Meanwhile, legendary Irish musicians Barry Devlin and Steve Wickham will make an appearance, alongside Amy McElhatton, Ian Toner and The Pussycat Dolls' Kimberley Wyatt. Foxsake Films Foxsake Films Related: The Traitors gift ideas and merch to buy now The Spin is set to be released in UK and Irish cinemas on 27 February. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes have praised the movie for its "charming" and "goofy" plot, which they likened to romantic comedy High Fidelity. Advertisement Advertisement "Here is a goofy road movie comedy with some cheeky borrowings from Nick Hornby's High Fidelity; it's a bit broad, and the ending doesn't exactly gel, but it's likable all the same," summarised The Guardian. "Charming Irish road trip mixes High Fidelity with Hardy Bucks and leaves cynicism at the door," echoed The Sunday Independent. Film Ireland Magazine added: "The lovely, touching moments celebrating friendship are underpinned by a wholesome message of encouragement in following your dreams and punctuated by brilliant comedic timing from our hapless protagonists." The Spin will arrive in cinemas on 27 February in the UK and Ireland. The new edition of Living Legends, a 100-page all-colour celebration of Taylor Swift, is here! Buy Taylor in newsagents or online, priced at just 8.99. You Might Also Like President Donald Trump appeared via video Feb. 6 to kick off the Freedom at 250 national tour, hosted by Young Americas Foundation and The Daily Wire. I love Nashville, Trump said. As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nations founding, young people like all of you have a crucial role to play in revitalizing and reasserting the unyielding American spirit that first inspired the cause of independence two and a half centuries ago, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Keep on fighting, keep on winning. The tour is YAFs yearlong series of youth rallies leading up to the celebration of Americas 250th birthday on July 4. The event at the Country Music Hall of Fame kicked off a weekend of conservative youth conference panels and seminars. In front of a wave of light-up red rave sticks, Tennessee elected officials and local conservative commentators fired up a crowd of around 700 students about the cultural superiority of America, what they called the fragility of American freedom and the need for young people to get married and have children. After a musical opening by country artist Will Jones and an address by YAF President and former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, Gov. Bill Lee addressed the crowd. Advertisement Advertisement This is the last stand for freedom in this entire world, said Walker. Thats why were counting on you. Your whole life is before you, and you have the opportunity to contemplate just what are those things that really matter. How is it that your life going to be spent serving other people and making life better, Lee said. And one of the most important things you can do is protect this remarkable nation that we have inherited your generation can preserve it and protect it and make sure that generations after will live in this great country. Other speakers included Daily Wire hosts and conservative commentators including Robby Starbuck. The speakers covered topics including transgender issues and religious freedom. Comments included jabs at Minnesotas Somali community. Advertisement Advertisement Starbuck, a former Tennessee congressional candidate who has targeted businesses over DEI practices, said that if given the power of an executive order, he would probably suspend habeas corpus, and would begin mass arrests of traitors within our government. Daily Wire host Michael Knowles said law enforcement under Trump needs to go a little bit further. I think we need to ramp up some of the criminal prosecutions, and arrests, he said. And the way I propose we do that is by renaming the FBI instead of the Federal Bureau of Investigation I think it should be the Federal Bukele Institute, and we should send the dictator of El Salvador to just round up all of our criminals for us. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn addressed the crowd via prerecorded video. Advertisement Advertisement You could not be in a better place to be looking at all that makes this nation great, she said. Thank you for being in Nashville, thank you for the work that you are doing, I know many of you are going back to your schools and your campuses, and you are going to continue to talk about what makes us the greatest nation on the face of the earth. The Freedom at 250 tour will see further events at Santa Barbara, California; Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The USA TODAY Network - The South region's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Have a story to tell? Reach Angele Latham by email at alatham@gannett.com, or follow her on Twitter at @angele_latham This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Conservative youth, Trump kick off America's 250th in Nashville This Chinese Lunar New Year will enter the year of the horse. It comes now with a deeper meaning as immigration operations continue in the Chicago area and in other cities across the country. Amid the dancing and cultural pride felt at Wentworth and Clark on Sunday, there is a strong stance for immigrant community that beats beneath this celebration. "The general trends are wealth and prosperity and happiness for everyone," said Edward Huang, who lives in Chinatown. "Especially for the Chinese community that's built on immigrants settling here in Chicago. It's like a yearly annual reminder that we are all still one community, sticking together." Advertisement Advertisement Light Up Chinatown, an event put on by the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce and several other Asian American organizations, ushers in the Chinese Lunar New Year with lights, joy, and community spirit. This year is the year of the horse. The Chinese zodiac is known for energy, passion, and action. "It, kind of, is a reminder for us as immigrants to all stick together and to charge forward, as well, no matter what happens," Huang said. This comes as the Trump administration's immigration crackdown has seen multiple shootings by federal agents, including one fatal shooting in suburban Franklin Park, and more recently, two deadly shootings in Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement "Let this be a year of unity and strength as the year of the horse charges us to do. It's to lead with love and to have healthy resistance and a rebellion to ensure that our city remains a welcoming city," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. "It just made me feel great that people are here. We are not afraid to gather. We should be able to celebrate our cultures freely without fear of ICE agents around racially profiling people. Now is a time more than ever for us to show strength and unity as a community," said 11th Ward Ald. Nicole Lee. The Lunar New Year officially begins Feb. 17 with the Lunar New Year parade set for March 1. The Alexander brothers' sex trafficking trial is in its second week in federal court in Manhattan. Tal and Oren Alexander were luxury real estate brokers; Oren's twin, Alon, was a security executive. To prove trafficking, prosecutors are showing the jury photos of exclusive settings. A waterfront Hamptons mansion. A five-star hotel in Las Vegas. Posh resorts in Aspen and the Bahamas. Luxurious? No question. But whether these and other costly locales are also crime scenes is a central question in the Alexander brothers' sex trafficking trial, which on Monday starts its third week before a federal jury in Manhattan. Advertisement Advertisement The wealthy brothers Tal and Oren Alexander sold high-end real estate, and Alon Alexander was a security firm executive are accused of using luxury homes and resorts as bait in a decadelong sex trafficking conspiracy. And so throughout the trial, six alleged trafficking victims are slated to tell stories of enticement and abuse as the courthouse screens fill with judge-approved photographs of ski resorts and beachfront homes. Prosecutors say that in Aspen, three accusers two of them minors were sexually assaulted at The Little Nell, a world-class ski resort, on one night in January 2017. Prosecutors in the Alexander brothers sex-trafficking trial in Manhattan say a young woman and two underage teens were sexually assaulted at The Little Nell ski resort on a single night in 2017. RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, a five-star casino resort and events space, is the location for what prosecutors say were sexual assaults on two women on one night in August 2017. Advertisement Advertisement And in December 2017, prosecutors say, a woman was sexually assaulted at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort. Prosecutors in the Alexander brothers trial in Manhattan say a woman was sex-trafficked at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort in the Bahamas in December 2017. Mehmed Zelkovic/Getty Images The brothers have denied the allegations, and their lawyers are arguing that any sex was consensual. At trial so far, prosecutors have shown the jury photographs of a 10,000 square foot Sag Harbor mansion, the site of two alleged sex traffickings. As visually stunning as these photos may be, there's a dry but important reason for their use in the trial. To prove sex trafficking, prosecutors must convince the jury that something of value was offered to cause a victim to cross state lines some kind of "material benefit" as the indictment terms it. Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say these material benefits, these lures, were the women's invitations to all-expense-paid trips to homes and resorts in the Hamptons, Aspen, and the Bahamas. "It was the biggest home I'd ever been in," a woman who testified under the pseudonym Maya Miller told jurors of the Sag Harbor mansion where she said she was grabbed by the neck in the shower and raped by Tal Alexander in 2014. "This is how you thank me for inviting you to a beautiful home?" she said Tal angrily asked when she tried to rebuff his advances. "It was the biggest home I'd ever seen," said one of two women allegedly raped in this Sag Harbor mansion. Southern District of New York/Business Insider Lawyers for Tal Alexander, 39, and twins Oren and Alon Alexander, 38, are strenuously defending the brothers at trial, repeatedly pointing out that none of the accusers called the police, and that many exchanged friendly-sounding messages with their alleged attackers afterward. Advertisement Advertisement Any sex, the defense argues, was agreed to and only later regretted. In fact, the defense argues, the accusers had romance, not just a luxury vacation, on their minds when they agreed to cross state lines. From left, former luxury real estate brokers Tal Alexander and Oren Alexander, Alon Alexander, and US District Court Judge Valerie E. Caproni in federal court in Manhattan. Jane Rosenberg/Reuters In accepting the brothers' invitations, often after lengthy social media exchanges, the accusers weren't planning "to play backgammon, to watch Netflix," Teny Geragos, a lawyer for Oren Alexander, told jurors during opening statements. Prosecutors have countered that the women sought romantic getaways, not rape, and could not have afforded these weekend trips if the brothers had not promised to foot the bill the "material benefit" without which sex trafficking can't be proven. A second accuser alleges she was drugged by a drink handed to her at a 2016 pool party in the backyard of this mansion in Sag Harbor. Southern District of New York/Business Insider "They said they would get private chefs, boat trips, everything would be covered," a second trafficking accuser explained of her decision to travel from Chicago to the Sag Harbor mansion with her friend Alison on Labor Day weekend in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement The woman, who testified as Bella Koval, told the jury she was drugged during a pool party on their second day at the home. Oren Alexander gave her something "fruity" in a red Solo cup that left her barely able to walk, she testified. She told jurors that the other twin, Alon, then gave her a glass of water after helping her to a bedroom, and raped her while "my whole body was tranquilized." The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, where prosecutors in the Alexander brothers sex-trafficking trial in Manhattan say two women were sexually assaulted on an August night in 2017. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images So far, the jury has heard testimony from five rape accusers the two from the Sag Harbor trips, and three other women who described assaults that did not involve interstate travel. Prosecutors have roughly two more weeks of witnesses to call. The indictment cites eight alleged victims; as many as 16 additional accusers may also testify in support of the top count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement The Hamptons will continue to figure prominently in the trial. Prosecutors say that in 2009, three sex trafficking accusers, one a minor, were assaulted during two separate weekends at a five-bedroom home in Southampton that currently rents for between $12,500 and $20,000 a month. Prosecutors also say that on Memorial Day weekend in 2011, a woman was sex trafficked in a 6-bedroom East Hampton home that real estate listings say is worth $4 million. Read the original article on Business Insider VLADIVOSTOK, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Published files in the case of late American financier Jeffrey Epstein have exposed the "pure Satanism" of Western elites, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with the NTV channel on Sunday. "This topic relates to exposing the face of what is called the collective West... it is generally beyond human comprehension, it is pure Satanism, and perhaps there is no need to explain it to a normal person," Lavrov said. Lavrov also addressed reports linking Russian politicians and businessmen to Epstein's files, quoting a line from the famous Soviet poet Vladimir Vysotsky: "Our penetration across the planet is especially noticeable from afar." On the same day, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noted that the Jeffrey Epstein case has exposed an extreme level of corruption among Western elites. The Epstein case continues to attract global attention, amid ongoing investigations and far-reaching political implications. Venezuelan Nobel peace laureate Maria Corina Machado said Monday that armed government agents had "kidnapped" a close ally hours after he was released from prison and demanded democratic elections. Machado said a group of heavily armed men in civilian clothes seized Juan Pablo Guanipa, 61, in the Los Chorros district of Caracas. The former National Assembly vice president had walked out of jail Sunday as part of a slow-moving wave of political prisoner releases. Advertisement Advertisement The Public Prosecutor's Office later confirmed Guanipa had been detained for violating the terms of his release and would be placed under house arrest, without providing details. Guanipa's son Ramon Guanipa demanded proof of life. "He didn't violate any of the conditions of his release, and we don't know where he is," he said. Guanipa's arrest sent a chilling message to those pushing for democratic reforms in Venezuela -- especially Machado who is pondering a return to her homeland from exile in the United States. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a key figure in the repressive administration of Nicolas Maduro before the leftist president was ousted in a US raid last month, blamed the "stupidity" of the opposition for Guanipa's fate. Advertisement Advertisement "Nothing happened until the stupidity of some politicians, who thought they could do whatever they wanted and stir up trouble in the country," Cabello told reporters, claiming Guanipa had violated his parole conditions. Machado said Guanipa's detention undermined promises to end decades of repression and de-facto one-party rule, but said she was still determined to return to Venezuela. "This does not affect my return in the slightest. Quite the opposite," she insisted. During a few hours of freedom, Guanipa met relatives of political detainees and challenged authorities to respect the results of the 2024 presidential election Maduro is widely accused to have stolen. Advertisement Advertisement "You don't want to respect it? Then let's go to a (new) electoral process," Guanipa told AFP on Sunday. - Winds of change? - Guanipa was first arrested in May 2025 on charges of "terrorism," money laundering and inciting violence, accusations rights groups say were widely used to silence critics under Maduro. His renewed detention came on the eve of a scheduled vote in Venezuela's National Assembly to grant amnesty to political dissidents and others. But Tuesday's parliamentary sitting was abruptly delayed to Thursday, and it was not known whether the so-called Amnesty Law for Democratic Coexistence would remain on the agenda. Advertisement Advertisement The bill, spearheaded by interim president Delcy Rodriguez, had been hailed as a potential turning point for the South American nation, a month after Maduro was snatched from a Caracas compound and spirited to the United States to face trial. Rodriguez has tentatively cooperated with Washington since then, promising a slice of Venezuela's vast oil reserves and a major political opening. Rights group Foro Penal said there have been nearly 400 prisoner releases since Rodriguez took charge. But reforms have been slow, and much of the military-backed government remains unchanged. Rodriguez herself was a key Maduro defender who had served as his vice president. Advertisement Advertisement Rights groups estimate about 700 people are still waiting to be freed. US congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar, a close ally of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said Guanipa must be released immediately. "If anything happens to him, there will be very grave consequences. The United States is watching," she wrote in a post in Spanish. Political prisoner Albany Colmenares was among those released to jubilant scenes over the weekend. Flag-waving family and friends cried "freedom" and rushed to hug her as she emerged from Tocuyito prison west of Caracas Sunday. "Many good things are coming for our country," Colmenares said. "We will continue to work very hard for that, and we ask you to continue accompanying us." bur-arb/cb/mlr/mlm A group of MAGA senators made a point of praising President Donald Trumps deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, after some of their Republican colleagues begged Trump to rely less on his increasingly unpopular adviser. Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina has repeatedly blasted Miller over his mass deportation drive, which has resulted in the deaths of two U.S. citizens at the hands of federal agents, and his stupid comments about the U.S. seizing Greenland. Stephen Miller never fails to live up to my expectations of incompetence, he told reporters last month after Miller accused slain ICU nurse Alex Pretti of being a would-be assassin. Advertisement Advertisement The Republican Senate conference broadly shares Tillis concerns that Millers hardline demands on foreign policy and immigration are turning off voters and hurting Republicans chances in the midterms, an unnamed GOP senator told The Hill. Senators in battleground states are particularly anxious for the president to consider a broader range of perspectives and options, especially on immigration enforcement policy. Miller, however, appears to be calling in reinforcements to try to regain the upper hand. Stephen Miller has been criticized for smearing slain ICE nurse Alex Pretti as an Stephen Miller immediately insulted Renee Good and Alex Pretti after they were killed by federal immigration agents last month. / OCTAVIO JONES / AFP via Getty Images More than a dozen Republican senators submitted on-the-record comments to The Hill on Sunday praising Miller and pushing back against public and anonymous criticisms from Senate GOP colleagues who want to diminish Millers clout at the White House, The Hill reported. Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt clear what prompted the statements, which were all sent the same day the newspaper interviewed Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who has repeatedly warned his colleagues that Trump will never turn on Miller. The presidents long-time aide is going to be proven right that we should be more aggressive on immigration policy, Graham said. It doesnt matter what a senator thinks about a presidents adviser, as long as the president has confidence in that adviser, he added. I have confidence in Stephen Miller that hes going to help us go on offense. President Trump's staunch ally Lindsey Graham has been going to bat for Stephen Miller. / Joe Raedle/Getty Images Others, like Tennessees Sen. Bill Hagerty, offered boilerplate statements. Advertisement Advertisement Stephen has effectively pushed for policies that are making America safer, like in Memphis in my home state of Tennessee, more prosperous, and more respected around the world, Hagerty said. Sens. Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania, Mike Lee of Utah, Steve Daines of Montana, Roger Marshall of Kansas, Ted Cruz of Texas, Bernie Moreno of Ohio, Jim Risch of Idaho, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, Rick Scott of Florida, and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin also submitted statements praising Miller, according to The Hill. The Daily Beast has reached out to the White House for comment. Retiring Sen. Thom Tillis said Stephen Miller is unlikeable and incompetent. / Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag Most Republican senators dont get along with Miller, according to Tillis, who is retiring this year and therefore speaking more openly than most Republicans about tensions within the administration. Advertisement Advertisement He has a condescending demeanor to begin with, Tillis told The Hill. He doesnt take advice. He sort of dictates. He provides doctrine. And you know these are U.S. senators with an election certificate. He should show them some respect. Following public outrage over the killings of Pretti and Renee Nicole Good, both 37-year-old Minnesotans, Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have been locked in a public battle over whos to blame for the administrations violent immigration enforcement tactics. Republicans in battleground states are reportedly worried about the heartless optics of Stephen Miller's immigration drive, including the arrest and detention of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos. / Columbia Heights Public Schools The Wall Street Journal reported this month that Trump wasnt comfortable with how extreme Millers views on immigration are. The president has also fielded calls from business leaders who are angry about Millers deportation quotas hurting their workforces, according to the Journal. Advertisement Advertisement One of Trumps top allies predicted that Miller would cost Republicans the midterms, while the opinion editors of the Rupert Murdoch-owned Wall Street Journal blamed Miller after Democrats easily flipped a Texas state Senate seat in a district that Trump carried by 17 points in 2024. Trumps spokesperson Karoline Leavitt previously told the Daily Beast in a statement, Stephen Miller has faithfully served President Trump for eleven years because hes intelligent, hardworking, and loyal. She also said his results over the course of the past year speak for themselves. A New Hampshire man is accused of DWI and driving the wrong way on Interstate 93, state police said Monday. Craig Stanton Pasco, 69, of Wentworth, was arrested on a felony charge of reckless conduct with a deadly weapon, and misdemeanor charges of disobeying an officer and aggravated DWI, state police said. Stanton Pasco was held on preventive detention at Grafton County Jail. He was scheduled to appear in Plymouth District Court on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement At 11:43 p.m. Friday, a state trooper attempted to stop a red 2014 Kia Sorento after seeing the vehicle driving southbound in the northbound lanes of I-93 in Ashland. The trooper activated his emergency lights and attempted to use his cruiser to stop the oncoming vehicle, state police said. However, the driver of the Kia, later identified as Stanton Pasco, drove around the cruiser and continued in the wrong direction. The trooper then used a crossover, passed the Kia, and set up tire-deflation devices, state police said. The Kia drove over the device, and the driver stopped shortly afterward. The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Trooper Joseph Leva at 603-846-3333. Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A 21yearold Idaho man was arrested Thursday night after allegedly threatening to shoot up TDs Pub during a dispute with an employee. According to Milford Police, the Public Safety Communications Center received a call around 9:41 p.m. on February 5, 2026, from a male reporting an altercation at TDs Pub, 68 Water Street. During the call, the man stated he was involved in a dispute with an employee and threatened to shoot up the establishment. Advertisement Advertisement Officers were given a description of the suspecta white male wearing blue jeans, a black jacket, and a black cowboy hat. Upon arrival, officers spotted someone matching that description fleeing toward Main Street. After a brief foot chase and search of the area, officers located the suspect hiding behind a vehicle on Thayer Street. Matthew Skelikh, 21, of Blackfoot, Idaho, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, threat to commit a crime, resisting arrest, making a bomb/hijack threat, and filing a false report to a public safety dispatcher. The incident remains under investigation. Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Deputies say a shooting early Sunday morning at the Victoria at Orange Park Apartments sent two people to the hospital and led to the arrest of Dimond Jahlil Crawford, 18. Clay County deputies rushed to Wells Road around 1 a.m. after getting several 911 calls about gunfire. The Clay County Sheriffs Office said in a news release that the victims were standing outside the suspects apartment building, with two additional victims when he began firing recklessly from inside his apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said Crawford shot at the victims as they were running away, and two of the victims were not injured as a result of the incident. When deputies arrived, they spoke with residents, who told them the shooter might still be nearby. While CCSO was investigating, two victims showed up at a Burger King nearby. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] One had been shot in the arm, and both were taken to the hospital. Deputies saw bullet holes in their car, confirming gunfire had hit the vehicle, the report said. After trying for hours to contact the suspect, CCSO said Crawford finally surrendered. Advertisement Advertisement CCSO sent out a news release on Monday night and said, All parties involved are known to each other and reportedly have been involved in prior disputes. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Crawford was taken to jail and faces charges of attempted murder and tampering with evidence. CCSO said this is still an active investigation and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact CCSO at (904)264-6512 and refer to case number 2026-003290. You can also submit anonymous tips through the SaferWatch App or contact First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-8477 (TIPS). Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Police are searching for a suspect who shot a man following an altercation inside a bar in the Kensington section of Philadelphia early Monday morning. It happened just before 2 a.m. on the 2500 block of North 2nd Street. Police arrived on the scene to find bullets shattered the front door of the bar. They learned a 29-year-old man had already been taken to Temple University Hospital with gunshot wounds to the arm and chest. Advertisement Advertisement The victim is currently listed in critical condition. Investigators say the shooting happened after the victim got into an argument with two other men inside the bar. Both suspects pulled out guns, with one of them opening fire and shooting the man at least twice. So far, no arrests have been made. The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Philadelphia police at 215-686-TIPS (8477). Man sentenced to life without parole after West Palm sober home murder A Maryland man will spend the rest of his life in a Florida prison following his sentencing Feb. 6 for the 2023 shooting death of a fellow resident at a Lake Park sober home. In a hearing that lasted about 30 minutes, Circuit Judge Sarah Willis denied Joshua McElhenney, 44, the possibility of parole when she issued him the life sentence. Her ruling at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach followed a trial in which jurors found McElhenney guilty as charged of first-degree murder with a firearm. The fatal encounter occurred shortly before 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 6, 2023, at a residence on the 800 block of Jasmine Drive. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office reported that McElhenney shot a 33-year-old man before fleeing to Miami-Dade County, where he was apprehended at a hotel. Investigators have not disclosed the dead man's name. Advertisement Advertisement Court records show that McElhenney maintained an address in a Baltimore suburb, and witnesses said he left the scene driving a white Dodge Caravan with Maryland license plates. According to investigators, the violence was preceded by a house meeting that morning. During that meeting, the 33-year-old resident accused McElhenney of "erratic behavior" and requested he undergo drug testing. Although McElhenney tested positive for THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, house residents voted to let him remain in the home without penalty. One witness told investigators there appeared to be no animosity after the meeting, describing everyone as getting along. However, shortly before 7:30 p.m. that evening, deputies responded after residents reported the shooting. One witness described hearing a gunshot and then seeing McElhenney exit the bedroom where the victim was found. Advertisement Advertisement "I had to take care of business," McElhenney reportedly said before fleeing the scene. McElhenney returned to Palm Beach County to face trial after his arrest in Miami-Dade County. During the Feb. 6 sentencing, the court noted that both McElhenney's family and the victim's family were present in court. It credited McElhenney with 915 days already served in the Palm Beach County Jail. Willis ordered McElhenney to provide two DNA samples for the state database before being transferred to the Florida Department of Corrections to begin his sentence. Jasmine Fernandez is a journalist covering Delray Beach and Boca Raton for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at jfernandez@pbpost.com and follow her on X at @jasminefernandz. Help support our work. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Maryland man gets life sentence for sober home murder near West Palm HUNTINGTON, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) Responders said Monday that two young people from Ontario, Canada are expected to make a full recovery after crews hiked miles in the snow to reach them. The hikers, a man and a woman, were near the summit of Camels Hump, the third-highest mountain in Vermont, at about 6:30 p.m. on Saturday when the man reportedly called 911 for help. Responders told them to continue climbing until they reached a trail heading down where they could meet rescuers coming up the mountain. Rescuers climbed almost 3 miles and over 2,000 feet up, some carrying a litter, finally reaching the pair at around five hours later, not far before midnight. Both were reportedly suffering from hypothermia. The man was able to walk back down with help after warming up a bit; the woman needed to be carried down. Vermont State Police provided this photo of the response to the two stranded hikers on Camels Hump on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Upon reaching the trailhead at about 4:00 a.m., she was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover. Advertisement Advertisement Richmond Rescue reports an estimated temperature of -15 degrees Fahrenheit at the time responders reached the two hikers, along with wind that made it feel even colder. This was not even the only rescue in the Green Mountains on Saturday, as Stowe Mountain Rescue separately carried an injured skier back from Bolton that afternoon. Responders said in that operation that her companions medical knowledge, including the Wilderness First Responder certification, helped keep her safe until responders arrived. According to Vermont State Police, anyone worried their life may be at risk while in the backcountry should not delay calling 911, as Vermont, unlike some other jurisdictions, does not hold people who call for backcountry assistance financially liable for their rescues. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. Maryland officials are asking for federal help after what they describe as one of the worst oyster seasons in state history, a collapse they say threatens both watermen and a cornerstone of the Chesapeake Bay economy. U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., this week asked the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to declare an economic fishery disaster under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Such a designation can unlock emergency federal assistance for fisheries harmed by natural or market conditions. Severe weather this year, combined with shrinking market access and increased competition, left many crews effectively tied to the dock, with watermen able to fish for just one or two days all season, Harris said in a statement. He said immediate relief is needed to offset financial losses. Advertisement Advertisement Eastern Shore lawmakers say a combination of factors prolonged freezing weather, weak demand and growing competition from out-of-state oysters devastated the winter harvest. State Sen. Johnny Mautz, R-Middle Shore, said the normal Thanksgiving-to-Christmas peak selling period largely vanished. That is prime time oyster sales. This year, it just did not exist, Mautz said. There has not been a demand to buy Maryland oysters. Lack of orders leave boats docked Because watermen typically only harvest when buyers are lined up, the lack of orders kept many boats docked, lawmakers said. Del. Jay Jacobs, chair of the House Waters Caucus, said Maryland once held a dominant share of the East Coast oyster market, but increasing supply from other states has cut into demand. He said legislators are exploring stronger marketing efforts and plan to review strategies used by other seafood programs. Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers also warned of environmental consequences if the industry stalls. Mautz said working oyster bars moving shell and tending bottoms helps prevent sediment buildup and supports oyster reproduction. Reduced harvesting, he said, could slow the Bays ongoing oyster recovery. The fear is not only economic, Mautz said. This could set us back a decade if the bottoms arent worked the way they need to be. Mautz credited Harris and Maryland Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks with seeking federal relief and called on Gov. Wes Moore to support the request. In a statement to The Sun, Van Hollen said watermen were hurt through no fault of their own and urged approval of the request. Advertisement Advertisement This is about safeguarding the future and economic livelihood of our watermen, whose success is vital to the health of the Bay economy, Van Hollen said. How does it work? According to NOAA officials, the disaster review process is typically initiated by a governor or other elected official and evaluated by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Mautz said its needed for several reasons. Federal disaster relief brings a number of things, including some monetary relief, but it also stays home foreclosures, bank notes, things like that. Its a temporary thing, but at least it gives the people who are affected a little bit of wiggle room to figure things out, he said. At this point, Mautz said theyre awaiting a response to the disaster relief request. Advertisement Advertisement I just appreciate everyone is taking the time to take the request seriously and appreciate the magnitude of how this is affecting our district and all the districts that have shoreline and working waterfronts. Its a terrible situation right now, he said. The governors office referred The Suns questions to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, which said the state has limited options without federal action. Officials say they are now awaiting a decision from NOAA as watermen face mounting financial pressure along the Chesapeake Bays working waterfronts. ________ Maryland reported a significant drop in traffic fatalities in 2025, marking the first time fatalities fell below 500 since 2014, according to a community announcement. The number of deaths from motor vehicle crashes fell by about 18%, from 582 in 2024 to 480 in 2025, according to preliminary data. This is the first time fatalities have dropped below 500 in a decade, according to the announcement. There is no greater priority than protecting our people, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said in the announcement. This requires strengthening enforcement, investing in infrastructure and ensuring our streets are safer for everyone who uses them. Advertisement Advertisement The 2025 total is also among the five lowest annual traffic fatality counts since 1960. Vulnerable road users see largest gains The announcement highlighted significant improvements for vulnerable road users. Pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities decreased by 33%, from 173 in 2024 to 116 in 2025. Motorcyclist fatalities saw an even larger drop, declining by 46% from 90 to 48. The reductions are attributed to targeted investments in high-risk areas and efforts to curb dangerous behaviors. The decline follows increased state investments in education, enforcement and engineering, supported by additional federal and state highway safety funding, according to the announcement. Efforts include stricter enforcement against impaired and aggressive driving, expansion of automated speed enforcement, increased seat belt campaigns and community-based safety programs. Advertisement Advertisement The Maryland Department of Transportation has implemented several measures to improve traffic safety. These include the release of a new Complete Streets policy prioritizing the safety of all road users, accelerated safety improvement projects and significant investments through the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan. Recent legislation aimed at addressing speeding near active work sites is also being implemented. Crashes continue to cause preventable deaths While the improvement marks a milestone, traffic crashes continue to cause preventable deaths and serious injuries. Impairment, distracted driving, speeding and aggressive driving remain leading causes of crashes, according to the announcement. The reduction in roadway fatalities shows whats possible when state and local partners work together with a shared focus on saving lives, Chrissy Nizer, Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle administrator, said in the announcement. The Maryland Department of Transportation recently launched its Serious About Safety initiative, which emphasizes that roadway safety is a shared responsibility. Through community engagement, media campaigns and enforcement support, the initiative reinforces the importance of buckling up, slowing down, driving sober, avoiding distractions and watching for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. Advertisement Advertisement Looking ahead, Marylands 20262030 Strategic Highway Safety Plan will guide continued progress. For more information on the Motor Vehicle Administrations Highway Safety Offices traffic safety initiatives and resources, visit ZeroDeathsMD.gov or follow @ZeroDeathsMD on social media. This story was created by Janis Reeser, jreeser@usatodayco.com with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at https://cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct/. This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Maryland reports 18% drop in traffic fatalities, a 10-year low YANGON, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar on Sunday opened a Union-level Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Product Exhibition and Market Fair in Nay Pyi Taw to mark the country's 79th Union Day, the state-owned daily The Mirror reported on Monday. Myanmar's Acting President Min Aung Hlaing attended and officially inaugurated the exhibition. Ethnic cultural troupes from different regions and states of Myanmar staged cultural dance performances during the event, the report said. The exhibition aims to support Myanmar's socio-economic development by promoting MSMEs, encouraging the production of value-added goods, strengthening local manufacturing, and boosting the domestic economy. It also seeks to reduce reliance on imports through import substitution, create employment opportunities, and support the One Region One Product program, it said. More than 120 booths are featured at the fair, including displays from ministries, MSME products from regions and states, ethnic traditional food stalls, business-matching platforms, and exhibits on technology, agricultural machinery, solar energy, electric vehicles, garments, and company showcases. The exhibition will run until Feb. 13. A winning $100,000 lottery ticket was sold at a grocery store in Massachusetts on Sunday. The $100,000 prize was from the midday Mass Cash drawing held on Sunday. The winning numbers for the drawing were 4, 17, 23, 24 and 31. The winning ticket that matched all five numbers was sold at Trucchis Market in Abington. Mass Cash drawings are held twice daily and tickets to play cost $1 each. Overall, at least 162 prizes worth $600 or more were won or claimed in Massachusetts on Sunday, including eight in Springfield, two in Worcester and nine in Boston. Advertisement Advertisement The Massachusetts State Lottery releases a full list of winning tickets every day. The list only includes winning tickets worth more than $600. The largest lottery prize claimed in Massachusetts so far this year was worth $5 million. It was from a winning $5,000,000 100X Cashword 2024ticket sold at a Mobil gas station in Uxbridge that was claimed Jan. 20. Massachusetts State Lottery Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here. While Massachusetts is likely to see relief from the arctic cold that enveloped the Bay State this weekend, yet another clipper system is expected to bring more snow to the region on Tuesday. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in place for much of Central and Western Massachusetts on Monday morning, with National Weather Service forecasters warning of dangerously cold wind chills as low as 20 below zero. The advisory expires at 10 a.m. The cold air is expected to give way to more moderate temperatures in the high 20s, with mostly sunny skies during the day Monday. Temperatures are likely to drop to the single digits and teens overnight. Advertisement Advertisement Another system brings snow to Massachusetts on Tuesday, but limited precipitation is expected to keep snow totals down. Forecasters with the weather service expect about 1 to 3 inches Tuesday into Tuesday night, with up to 4 inches possible in the northeastern part of the state. Some snow showers could linger into the afternoon and evening on Wednesday, particularly in Eastern Massachusetts. As the clipper system moves out, high pressure begins to build back into the region, bringing drier conditions to Massachusetts. With the arctic airmass gone, forecasters expect high temperatures to reach the mid to upper 30s from Wednesday onward. Still, nighttime lows are expected to fall to the teens and low 20s. Notably, wind chills will not be as brutally cold, forecasters wrote. More weather Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here. State Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) discussing her data privacy legislation. Nov. 12, 2024. Photo by Jon King Mallory McMorrow is branching off the Michigan Senates legislative goals to keep kids safe in the era of intrusive technology by introducing a new policy platform in her U.S. Senate campaign, targeting constant cell phone use and artificial intelligence chatbots geared toward adult content. McMorrow, a Royal Oak Democrat and the Michigan Senates majority whip, said that if she is nominated in the August primary and goes on to win the general election in November, she would work to implement a nationwide ban on cell phone use in the classroom, new privacy efforts to keep kids away from harmful advertising, and new restrictions on infinite scroll social media for children under the age of 14. Advertisement Advertisement The Michigan Senates Democrats are pushing for similar restrictions in the state. She also indicated that that she would hold online platforms that offer chatbots accountable if they promote damaging content to young people, especially if that content includes subjects like suicide, eating disorders and substance abuse. McMorrow further would prohibit those chatbots from misrepresenting their output as being provided by a licensed professional like an attorney, physician or mental health care professional. Right now, a generation of young people is drowning in depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Why? Because powerful platforms rake in record profits while exposing children to addictive and harmful content, sexual predators, deadly drug sales, and AI chatbots that engage in sexual roleplay with kids as young as 13. And Congress has done far too little to fix this, McMorrow said in a statement. When I think about my own daughters safety, I worry what this age of tech means for how shell grow up, how shell see the world and see herself. Also on the menu if McMorrow is elected: Advertisement Advertisement A ban on surveillance advertising to anyone under 18, expanding the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) from 13 to all minors under the age of 17, and a reduction on incentives to harvest kids data. Comprehensive federal data privacy legislation to protect personal information online, including sensitive health data like gender identity, sexual orientation, and reproductive health; and, empower consumers to know what companies are doing with their data and the ability to control that usage. McMorrow added her belief that President Donald Trump was making the situation worse by gutting agencies meant to protect kids online. She did not give specific examples of which cuts affected agencies in charge of that role in her policy rollout. She did, however, say that: Michigans kids deserve better than Silicon Valleys bottom line. McMorrow faces U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) and former Wayne County health department director Abdul El-Sayed in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary. The winner of that contest will go on to face either Republican former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, who at present is the presumptive nominee, or Bernadette Smith, the former co-chair of the Michigan Republican Party. Health officials in the nation's capital warned people who attended the National March for Life rally in January may have been exposed to measles. DC Health said three people infected with measles visited various locations in Washington between Jan. 21 and Feb. 2, including the Jan. 23 annual march to oppose abortion. The rally reportedly drew thousands of attendees including Vice President JD Vance, House Speaker Mike Johnson and other members of Congress. Other potential measles exposure sites include major transit hubs like Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Union Station as well as the Catholic University of America and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Childrens National Hospital said in a statement that a Virginia resident who was diagnosed with measles visited its emergency department on Feb. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes. The disease can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, swelling of the brain and death. Dr. Oz: 'Take the vaccine, please' amid measles outbreaks Measles was eliminated in the United States by 2000 but has resurfaced in periodic outbreaks, mostly among people who are not vaccinated. There have been two new outbreaks and more than 730 confirmed cases of measles reported in 2026 as of Feb. 5, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.. People hold rosaries as they pray the hail Mary during the 53rd annual March for Life rally on the National Mall in Washington, DC, on January 23, 2026. An anti-abortion activist holds a sign with a quote from conservative political activist Charlie Kirk during the annual March for Life rally on the National Mall on January 23, 2026 in Washington, DC. Bishop Joseph Strickland of Texas confers a blessing during the 53rd annual March for Life rally on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Patriot Front members hold flags during the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C People gather for the annual March for Life in Washington, DC, on January 23, 2026. March for Life: See photos from the anti-abortion march in Washington 1 of 5 People hold rosaries as they pray the hail Mary during the 53rd annual March for Life rally on the National Mall in Washington, DC, on January 23, 2026. Health officials in Washington state on Jan. 16 confirmed an outbreak connected to a family traveling from South Carolina, where a major outbreak has been brewing. Los Angeles County public health officials recently confirmed three measles cases involving people who had traveled internationally, including one who flew into Los Angeles International Airport and visited Disneyland Resort. Advertisement Advertisement Those incidents come after measles cases reached the highest level seen in over three decades in 2025, according to CDC data. There were at least three deaths related to measles that year, the first documented in a decade. Dr. Mehmet Oz, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have urged Americans to get the measles vaccine as cases spread. DC Health said it is reaching out to people who may have been exposed. Health officials urged anyone who was exposed and never received a measles-containing vaccine to contact their health care provider or DC Health and watch for symptoms for at least 21 days after their exposure. Contributing: Sara Moniuszko This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: March for Life attendees may have been exposed to measles Nothing could have prepared Radu Frentiu for meeting the snake known as Ibu Baron, which means "The Baroness" in Indonesian. I had never seen a snake this big, says Frentiu. This snake could easily swallow at least a calf, if not an adult cow. Frentiu, an explorer and natural history photographer who has lived in Bali, Indonesia, for two decades, has encountered his share of big snakes. But Ibu Baron deserved a record-breaking distinction. Advertisement Advertisement Guinness World Records recently confirmed that Ibu Baron, a reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus), is believed to be the longest verifiably measured wild snake in the world. She was first discovered in the Maros region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia, in late 2025. Frentiu learned about the giant python from Diaz Nugraha, a wildlife guide, rescuer, and licensed snake handler from Borneo. Together, they traveled to Sulawesi to see the animal firsthand and measure her. On January 18, Frentiu and Nugraha weighed and measured Ibu Baron, documenting the process with photographs and video to be as transparent as possible. Using a surveyors tape that followed the snakes natural curves, they recorded a total length of 23 feet and 8 inches from head to tail tip. The python also weighed in at 213 poundsand that was on an empty stomach. Frentiu says the snakes true length could be even longer, since she was not sedated when the measurements were taken. Under anesthesia, a snakes muscles fully relax, potentially adding another 10 to 15 percent to her length. Photographer Radu Frentiu documented, weighed and measured the giant snake Ibu Baron. For this photo of himself with Ibu Baron, he used a drone for better perspective due to the snake's enormous size. Radu Frentiu, Diaz Nugraha A snake to be celebrated Reticulated pythons are already the worlds longest snake species, typically reaching lengths between 10 to 19 feet. Larger individuals have been reported throughout history, but most claims rely on secondhand accounts or animals that were killed shortly after discovery. In many cases, the snakes vanish before their size can ever be verified. These giant animals attract attention as status symbols, Frentiu says. They tend to disappear, or something bad happens to them. Ibu Barons continued survival is what makes her exceptional. Advertisement Advertisement Local conservationist Budi Purwanto, who acted quickly when word of the snake spread, has played an important role in Ibu Barons longevity. Rather than allowing her to be sold or killed, he acquired her and constructed a makeshift shelter on his property, where she now lives alongside several other rescued snakes. Releasing her into the local area would be risky. Large prey animals, such as babirusa and other wild pigs, are scarce, while human settlements are numerous. A python this big will probably be drawn toward a village, Frentiu explains. And once that happens, it will almost certainly be killed. Across Indonesia, habitat loss and declining prey have pushed large snakes into closer contact with humans. Reticulated pythons are non-venomous, but their size and strength make them lethal predators capable of killing livestock and, in rare cases, people. Human fear is often fatal for the snakes, which are also hunted for bushmeat and targeted by the illegal wildlife trade. Radu Frentiu, Budi Purwanto and villagers from south Sulawesi, Indonesia, lift "The Baroness" for a group photo after her measurements were taken. At least eight people were needed to safely handle the snake at any one time. Radu Frentiu, Diaz Nugraha For Frentiu, Nugraha, and Purwanto, Ibu Baron represents a chance to change that dynamic. By protecting her and keeping her visible, including through recognition by Guinness World Records, they hope to show that giant snakes can be worth more alive than dead. It can give this animal importance and hopefully value, Frentiu says. It can empower local communities to look after these animals and view them as a resource for the long-term. He points to a growing niche of herpetological tourismwildlife tours focused on spotting reptiles and amphibiansas one possible path forward. Advertisement Advertisement Frentiu is careful not to frame Ibu Baron as the record-holder for all timethere could be even bigger snakes out there. I do not believe in the slightest that this is the largest wild snake. I got lucky, he says. There are still wonders out there. This is one of themand I dont think its the last. A top Meta researcher warned the companys executives that there could be as many as 500,000 cases of online sexual exploitation per day on Facebook and Instagram, according to explosive documents that were unsealed on the eve of a landmark jury trial. Opening arguments begin Monday in New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrezs case in state court, which accuses Mark Zuckerbergs social media giant of exposing kids to the twin dangers of sexual exploitation and mental health harm through creepy messages, sextortion schemes and human trafficking. The result, the state claims, is a teen social media crisis that has led to anxiety, depression, self-harm and increasing suicides. Mark Zuckerberg, chief executive officer of Meta Platforms Inc., during the Meta Connect event in Menlo Park, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. Bloomberg via Getty Images Ahead of the trial, the states lawyers cited an internal email in which Malia Andrus, who held child safety-related roles at Meta from August 2017 to October 2024, wrote that creeps targeted ~500k victims per DAY in English markets only with sexually inappropriate messages. Advertisement Advertisement We expect the true situation is worse, Andrus said in a June 2020 email, according to court records. In another chilling message, Andrus noted that the massive user bases of Facebook and Instagram have effectively handed predators a tool to target kids on a scale that was previously unimaginable. I just think, nowhere in the history of humanity could you have a secret conversation with 1000 people, she wrote. Im actually scared of the ramifications here. New Mexicos lawsuit is one of several legal battles Meta faces this year and will seek to shine a light on safety lapses that have caught the attention of US lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Last week, a bellwether trial accusing Meta and Google-owned YouTube of fueling social media addiction in young users began in California, with hundreds of victims families and school districts as plaintiffs. Elsewhere, the FTC last month appealed its loss in the major antitrust lawsuit seeking a breakup of Meta. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez discusses the nexus of public safety, mental health and adverse child experiences during a news conference following a summit in Albuquerque, NM, Nov. 3, 2023. AP The multiple trials accusing Meta of exposing children to harm are a split screen of Mark Zuckerberg nightmares, according to Sacha Haworth, executive director of the Tech Oversight Project, a watchdog group. These are the trials of a generation; just as the world watched courtrooms hold Big Tobacco and Big Pharma accountable, we will for the first time see Big Tech CEOs like Zuck take the stand, said Haworth. The world is watching, Metas reckoning has arrived, and the consequences have just begun. New Mexicos case has been closely watched in part because of the garish details that arose during its probe of Metas practices. Advertisement Advertisement Test accounts set up by state investigators were allegedly bombarded with adult sex content and outreach from alleged child predators, including pictures and videos of genitalia and an offer of a six-figure payment to star in a porn video, the lawsuit claims. New Mexicos Torrez has been critical of Instagrams Teen Accounts feature. Ascannio stock.adobe.com In other emails detailed in pretrial filings, Andrus allegedly ripped the age verification tools meant to keep underage users off Instagram, warning that they were easily fooled. Our investigators have given feedback that almost every time they encounter an age liar on IG (in a child safety context) the age prediction is incorrect (aligns with the age they falsely claim to be), Andrus wrote, according to court documents. A Meta spokesperson said the internal discussions cited in the filings took place as part of an active effort by the company to protect kids. Advertisement Advertisement While New Mexico makes sensationalist, irrelevant and distracting arguments, were focused on demonstrating our longstanding commitment to supporting young people, the spokesperson said in a statement. For over a decade, weve listened to parents, worked with experts and law enforcement, and conducted in-depth research to understand the issues that matter most. Andrus, who left Meta in 2024 and now works in an online safety role for an OpenAI, did not return a request for comment. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg speaks during an event at the Biohub Imaging Institute in Redwood City, Calif., Nov. 5, 2025. AP The state argued Andrus has deep knowledge of Metas handling of the online sex abuse problem because she worked extensively on the internal research, including serving as a member of a Groomers Taskforce, which examined adult predators who solicited minors. Ms. Andrus also commented on Metas failure to adequately invest in child safety, the misleading nature of some of its publicly reported child safety metrics, and the (undisclosed) immaturity of Instagrams child safety measures, the states filing said. Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of the trial, Metas attorneys tried to block any mention of several sensitive topics including the companys AI chatbots, research surveys detailing the harmful effects of its products on mental health, and details of the bombshell undercover operation that New Mexico investigators conducted to reveal instances of online sex abuse. First Judicial District Judge Bryan Biedscheid ultimately rejected the requests during pretrial hearings. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, arrives to testify before the US Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Big Tech and the Online Child Sexual Exploitation Crisis, in Washington, DC, on Jan. 31, 2024. AFP via Getty Images Elsewhere, internal documents showed that Zuckerberg signed off on allowing minors to use Metas AI chatbot companions even after safety staffers warned that they could be used for romantic or sexualized conversations. Reuters was first to report on the documents. Torrez has aggressively criticized Zuckerberg ahead of the trial. As The Post reported in December, he derided Instagrams implementation of a PG-13 rating system to shield kids from illicit content as a dangerous promotional stunt that lulls parents into a false sense of security. Meta has fired back, accusing Torrez of making claims that are littered with factual errors and misrepresentations and ignoring the companys progress in improving guardrails for kids. The Michigan Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Here's a look at Feb. 8, 2026, results for each game: Winning Daily 3 numbers from Feb. 8 drawing Midday: 0-6-5 Evening: 6-8-3 Check Daily 3 payouts and previous drawings here. Winning Daily 4 numbers from Feb. 8 drawing Midday: 4-9-1-7 Evening: 2-9-8-2 Check Daily 4 payouts and previous drawings here. Winning Lucky For Life numbers from Feb. 8 drawing 05-14-17-31-44, Lucky Ball: 13 Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here. Winning Poker Lotto numbers from Feb. 8 drawing 5C-6C-8C-5D-8H Check Poker Lotto payouts and previous drawings here. Winning Fantasy 5 numbers from Feb. 8 drawing 02-05-27-31-34 Advertisement Advertisement 03-07-14-23-31 Check Fantasy 5 payouts and previous drawings here. Winning Daily Keno numbers from Feb. 8 drawing 03-06-09-14-21-22-23-27-28-31-34-46-49-56-57-58-67-73-74-75-76-77 Check Daily Keno payouts and previous drawings here. Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results Are you a winner? Heres how to claim your lottery prize All Michigan Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes up to $99,999.99, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Michigan Lotterys Regional Offices. To claim by mail, complete a ticket receipt form, sign your winning ticket, and send it along with original copies of your government-issued photo ID and Social Security card to the address below. Ensure the names on your ID and Social Security card match exactly. Claims should be mailed to: Advertisement Advertisement Michigan Lottery Attn: Claim Center 101 E. Hillsdale P.O. Box 30023 Lansing, MI 48909 For prizes over $100,000, winners must claim their prize in person at the Michigan Lottery Headquarters in Lansing located at 101 E. Hillsdale in downtown Lansing. Each winner must present original versions of a valid government-issued photo ID (typically a drivers license or state ID) and a Social Security card, ensuring that the names on both documents match exactly. To schedule an appointment, please call the Lottery Player Relations office at 844-887-6836, option 2. If you prefer to claim in person at one of the Michigan Lottery Regional Offices for prizes under $100,000, appointments are required. Until further notice, please call 1-844-917-6325 to schedule an appointment. Regional office locations are as follows: Advertisement Advertisement Lansing: 101 E. Hillsdale St. Lansing; Phone: 844-917-6325 Livonia: 33231 Plymouth Road, Livonia; Phone: 844-917-6325 Sterling Heights: 34700 Dequindre Road, Sterling Heights; Phone: 844-917-6325 Detroit: Cadillac Place, 3060 W. Grand Blvd., Suite L-600, Detroit; Phone: 844-917-6325 Grand Rapids: 3391-B Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids; Phone: 844-917-6325 Saginaw: Jerome T. Hart State Office Building, 411 E. Genesee Ave., Saginaw; Phone: 844-917-6325 For additional information, downloadable forms, and instructions, visit the Michigan Lottery's prize claim page. When are Michigan Lottery drawings held? Daily 3 & Daily 4: Midday at 12:59 p.m., Evening at 7:29 p.m. Fantasy 5: 7:29 p.m. daily Poker Lotto: 7:29 p.m. daily Lotto 47: 7:29 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday Lucky for Life: 10:38 p.m. daily Daily Keno: 7:29 p.m. daily This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Michigan editor. You can send feedback using this form. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Lottery Daily 3, Daily 4 results for Feb. 8, 2026 Wisconsin citizens are rightly appalled at the lawless cruelty and tragic deaths ICE has brought to US cities. But, even if its agents were as polite as butlers, President Donald Trump's plan to deport millions of immigrants would still make no sense. By 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or over; our labor force badly needs to be replenished. Moreover, if you look at the kinds of jobs where immigrants contribute most, they are heavily in areas AI cannot replace, including agriculture, forestry, construction, hotels and restaurants, trucking, auto repair, health care, childcare and eldercare. With fewer immigrants, we will have to pay more to attract and maintain workers in all these services. Meanwhile, the children of immigrants are speaking English and getting educated for the high tech jobs of the future. Advertisement Advertisement Contrary to ridiculous government claims, the conservative Cato Institute found that only 5% of the people seized by ICE had been convicted of violent crimes. Instead of deporting undocumented immigrants who have been living and working in this country for years without committing crimes, we should be helping them become US citizens. Michael Nunley, Madison Opinion: Instead of attacking student protesters, we ought to listen Outrage over ICE cruelty bringing neighbors together The recent statewide protests to cease US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations speaks to a growing consciousness of community here in Wisconsin and across the nation. Outrage over the capricious cruelty displayed by federal agents against everyday people along with senseless murders are bringing neighbors far and wide together. Advertisement Advertisement This is a collective disillusionment, a reaction to the needless labels of citizen and noncitizen, and a vocal disabuse of the deceitful media framing by this administration. Throughout my lifetime, I have witnessed excessive force for exploitation used by past and present presidential administrations here and aboard. Our country is one with boundaries formed by bloodshed. Colonized immigrants from Europe committed genocide against indigenous communities the campaign we witness in this present moment a modernized recreation. The law neglects these historical realities, and, as current video evidence demonstrates, ICE agents are neglecting the law. To me, this is not a partisan issue. ICE immigration operations will adversely affect the lives of all Wisconsin residents. Minnesota is a model of how unwanted policing harms an entire community. Therefore, I hope the momentum of this movement will lead to a greater collective effort to invest in our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Vraney, Wauwatosa Letters: Here's a test for Democratic gubernatorial candidates Tips for getting your letter to the editor published Here are some tips to get your views shared with your friends, family, neighbors and across our state: Please include your name, street address and daytime phone. Generally, we limit letters to 200 words. Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter. Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing. Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person. We cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions. We don't publish poetry, anonymous or open letters. Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months. All letters are subject to editing. Advertisement Advertisement Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: ICE's argument on undocumented immigrants, crime is false | Letters default default Jose hasnt left his house in Saint Paul for 29 days not to shovel the snow at his driveway, not to fix up the car. When the car needed an oil change, he video-called his wife, Sara, from inside so he could walk her through it. Ive only been from the bedroom to the living room, he said. Hes afraid to even get near the front door. Amy and her two kids have not stepped outside their apartment building in south Minneapolis in two weeks not since Amys husband, Chris, was detained by immigration officers. They havent gone to the park, or the grocery store. They have played hide-and-seek and tag in the wide hallways of their building but they wont go past the lobby. Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration launched its Operation Metro Surge in the Twin Cities in early December sending thousands of federal agents to arrest immigrants at bus stops, grocery stores and churches. The agents have killed two US citizens, and taken in their dragnet not only undocumented immigrants, but also refugees and others with legal statuses, tribal citizens and permanent residents. Since then, untold numbers of people across the region have been placed under de facto house arrest. Immigrants, as well as a range of residents who fear they may be apprehended by agents due to the color of their skin or their accents, have ceased to leave the safety of their homes. Until everyone leaves, were going to be here Jose Public schools in Minneapolis, Saint Paul and surrounding areas have offered families the option of online classes. Neighbors have been delivering groceries to those who dont dare leave their houses, and healthcare providers are arranging home visits. Our house is like a jail, said Sara. You just cant go out. Advertisement Advertisement This week, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that it would withdraw about 700 federal agents from Minnesota. But that still leaves about 2,000 agents on the ground. Until everyone leaves, were going to be here, said Jose. Every day, I cry for him Jose now spends the bulk of his days continually refreshing an ICE tracker database. When Sara heads out to her job as a nursing assistant, he runs downstairs and barricades the door with a shoe rack. He has reminded everyone Sara, her 17-year-old daughter, Eileen, the cousins who live a few houses down the street that if they want to enter the house, they need to first knock three times. Then hell unblock the door. Advertisement Advertisement And while Sara is out, Jose continuously texts and calls her: Are you OK? When are you coming home? Are you on your way? Related: Trump lawyers aim to deport five-year-old boy after judge ordered his release When she is here, I feel safe, he said. Sometimes, he watches soap operas, or practices his English vocabulary by watching YouTube videos. Sara tries to coax him out to the balcony, and makes him lists of chores to do while shes at work so he has something to do other than monitor the ICE tracker database. She tells him: You need to calm down They cant get you here. But he is unconvinced hes seen the videos of ICE officers breaking down doors and windows. Advertisement Advertisement She tells him, I want my husband back. She misses her funny, emotionally open partner. They had started dating a few years ago after he had worked up the courage to message on Facebook (simply: Hola) and learned that they were actually from the same city in El Salvador. They were married in September last year, and Jose applied for his citizenship in November. But the whole family has been changed they are still reeling from what happened the day that federal agents cornered them, and took Saras cousin Armando. Armando, 26, had moved in with them last January, and the trio had started a small contracting business together. The three of us, we did everything together, Sara said. The three of them were driving back from a job, in their pickup, when it happened. It was about 1pm, and they had been installing siding on a house but the owner had told them to head back early, because it was too cold and windy to be working outside. Advertisement Advertisement They almost made it home. About a block away from their house, a car with flashing lights began to pursue them. Its over, theyre going to take me now, said Jose, who was in the drivers seat. A federal officer demanded that each of them hand over their IDs and proof of a legal status. Sara refused at first by law, she understood that only the cars drivers had to hand over a license, and none of them needed to provide proof of citizenship. But the agents had guns. So we gave it to them, she said. Sara, who is a US citizen, also had her passport with her and showed it to the agents. But Jose, who was in the process of obtaining his citizenship, didnt have a US passport. Nor did Armando, who is undocumented. Advertisement Advertisement The agents demanded that both men get out of the car and come with them. One of the agents reached through the drivers-side door of the car and grabbed the keys from Jose. Bystander videos reviewed by the Guardian shows that by then, a crowd of neighbors had gathered around and were shouting at the agents to let the family go. Several additional vehicles with federal agents also swooped in. Eileen, who lives with her father down the block from Sara and Jose, heard the commotion and felt a pang of fear in her stomach. She and her cousins rushed to the window. And I just remember hearing my mom, just screaming and crying, Eileen said. There were so many cars, and the agents were just putting my mom and my family at gunpoint. An officer pushed Joses face down into the cars steering wheel and yelled, Are you coming with me? Sara recalled. The ICE agents, they have all the control. And its like, you have to sit there and realize that you cant do anything about it Eileen Jose started gasping for air, convulsing and throwing up. His chest tensed, and his heart seized. An agent pressed his Taser into Joses ribs. A bystander a nurse yelled at the agents to let him go. Bystanders called 911, and some local police helped direct the ambulance navigate though the ICE vehicles and get to Jose. Advertisement Advertisement Sara was torn should she go with her husband, or stay to help her cousin? She pleaded with Armando, You dont have to go with them. But the agents had their guns pointed at them. He said: I dont want to die. So he went with them. A bystander drove Sara to the hospital, where Jose was shackled to a bed with three federal agents standing guard in his room. Sara said that she and a lawyer werent permitted to see him, and that she repeatedly tried in vain to get updates on his condition. . An advocacy group and local officials tried to intervene. Eventually, the three immigration agents in Joses room agreed to leave, and a doctor said that he could go home. He hasnt left his house since then. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Armando had been taken to a detention center in Saint Paul, and within hours was transferred to the Camp East Montana detention center in El Paso, Texas. Sara now spends her mornings and evenings speaking with lawyers, looking for a way to secure Armandos release. And every day, I cry for him, she said. Its like a part of my heart is gone. Everything in her home is a daily reminder of his absence. It hurts to make just two coffees in the morning, instead of three, she said. The bag of cookies and cakes Armando had bought just before his detention sits, uneaten, in the pantry. (The Chiky cookies which taste like the color pink as much as they taste like strawberry are his favorite.) The familys contracting business is now defunct. Eileen, meanwhile, is still trying to understand what she saw. She has flashbacks to the moment she heard her mother screaming, and she felt powerless. The ICE agents, they have all the control. And its like, you have to sit there and realize that you cant do anything about it, Eileen said. Im truly scared. Advertisement Advertisement Related: A profound sense of being hunted: with all eyes on Minneapolis, ICE arrests continue quietly across the US Even Mingo, the familys tuxedo cat, has been acting strange. The morning before Armando was taken, Mingo had clambered into his room and started meowing and screeching. When the three of them tried to head out to work, Mingo pounced at their feet and tried to block the front door. At the time I thought it was so strange, Sara said, but now she feels as if Mingo was trying to tell them something. These days, Mingo skulks around Armandos room, scratching at the door, as if hes looking for his friend. At home we can be safe Across town, in south Minneapolis, Amy and her family dont know when they will be able to leave their houses. Us migrants dont have safety here, she said. She and her children havent left the house since her husband, Chris, was arrested more than two weeks ago. The couple, both 33, had fled extortion and harassment in Ecuador arriving in the US in June 2021 with their then infant daughter. Immigration officers who interviewed the family at the border had placed Chris in the governments Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (Isap) requiring that he wear an ankle monitor and regularly check in in person. They had moved to Minnesota, enrolled their daughter in school and had another child a baby boy who is now two years old. Chris found a job as a cook at a sushi restaurant. On 22 January, Chris reported to a mandated check-in at a local immigration office. They told me, Come to the office, bring your passport and well remove your ankle monitor, he said. A few hours later, he was flown, in shackles, to a detention center in El Paso. He was never informed why he was being detained. We had always worried this would happen, Amy said. He was detained for a week while Amy and their lawyer tried, desperately, to secure his release. Chris was only allowed one brief phone call every few days. He used his first one to tell Amy: No, dont go out. Dont go to work because they are arresting a lot of people. Chriss friends, Chloe and Heather, brought the family food and supplies. Amys friend in the building occasionally came to visit them just to keep them company and lift their spirits. She had just started a job nearby but heeded her husbands request and stopped going. The kids struggled. Amy tried to entertain them by making up games. Sometimes, one of them would put on a blindfold and search for the others in the house. Theyd watch movies, play with Legos. We left our country due to a very difficult situation. Now we dont feel safe, neither here nor there Amy But they knew something was wrong. Both began to refuse food. The baby kept asking for his dad. And his older sister understood a bit more she knew her father had been taken. She has seen the news, Amy said. She said it is because of the president, or maybe because we are Latinos. In detention, Chris was in a section with 72 other men, he said. The conditions were grim: the tap for drinking water was broken. The food rations were meager. The roof had holes in it, allowing water to drip on to some of the bunk beds. Immigration officers came by and offered a deal if he accepted a voluntary departure to Ecuador, he would receive $2,600. Chris didnt consider signing it, even for a moment. His asylum case was still pending a judge was scheduled to hear it soon. And I have my family, my children, he said. It is inhumane to separate children from parents. Amy was terrified as well. We left our country due to a very difficult situation, she said. Now we dont feel safe, neither here nor there. Eventually, the couples lawyer was able to secure Chriss release. He was eating lunch when a guard told him to pack his things. He left Texas on a Thursday, at around noon. By the time he reached Saint Paul it was 12.30am on Friday. Chris didnt want to call his wife and risk that she, too, would be arrested. So he called his friend Chloe, who rushed over to pick him up from the ICE processing center. He cried when he finally saw Amy, at the front door. The children were asleep, and he didnt want to wake them. So he quietly went into their room and he prayed for them. I was thanking God that I am back home with my children, he said. The next morning, when he heard his daughter stirring awake in her room, he leapt up from the sofa, scooped her in his arms and placed her on his lap. He gently stroked her hair, and held his palms over her tiny arms, bracing his knuckles as if he wanted to squeeze her hard. For now, I know if we stay here, at home we can be safe, he said. NEW YORK The New York State Nurses Association reached tentative agreements on new contracts with the Montefiore and Mount Sinai health systems in the wee hours of Monday morning. The deals preserve zero-premium health insurance coverage for nurses, impose new staffing levels and implement a series of wage increases, starting with a 4 percent raise March 1, according to records reviewed by POLITICO. Other new contract provisions would provide nurses with paid time off for court proceedings related to workplace violence and erect guardrails around the use of artificial intelligence in clinical settings, the records show. Advertisement Advertisement It is the first substantial breakthrough in a historic strike by nearly 15,000 nurses, which has dragged on for over four weeks at private hospitals across Manhattan and the Bronx. About 10,500 unionized nurses at the covered Montefiore and Mount Sinai facilities must vote this week to ratify the deals before they end their strike and return to work. If ratified, the nurses will return to work Saturday. The union said it would release more details on the agreements once they are approved. Spokespeople for Mount Sinai and Montefiore had no immediate comment. Nurses at Montefiore and Mount Sinai systems are heading back to the bedside with our heads held high after winning fair tentative contracts that maintain enforceable safe staffing ratios, improve protections from workplace violence, and maintain health benefits with no additional out-of-pocket costs for frontline nurses, union President Nancy Hagans said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Approximately 4,200 striking nurses employed by New York-Presbyterian have yet to reach a similar compromise. A New York-Presbyterian spokesperson said the health system agreed to a comprehensive proposal presented by mediators early Sunday, which included the same wage increases as at Mount Sinai and Montefiore and would preserve nurses health benefits and pension while increasing staffing levels. But New York-Presbyterians union representatives did not sign on, saying staffing remains the key sticking point. TOKYO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Japanese lawyers on Monday filed lawsuits at high courts across the country demanding the results of Sunday's House of Representatives election be nullified because it was unconstitutional as it was conducted without correcting vote weight disparities, local media reported. The disparity between the most and least populated single-seat constituencies was 2.10-fold in the latest election, Kyodo News reported, citing its preliminary calculation. As of Jan. 26, the day before official campaigning for the general election kicked off, the Hokkaido No. 3 district in northern Japan had the largest number of voters at 462,999, while the Tottori No. 1 district in western Japan had the smallest, with 220,820 voters, according to Kyodo News. Lawyer Naofumi Ogawa told media that "equality in the weight of votes is an essential principle of the Constitution," calling for vote weight disparities to be rectified. The lawsuits were instituted at courts, including the Akita branch of the Sendai High Court and the Osaka High Court. The Supreme Court is expected to issue a unified decision after those courts hand down rulings, possibly by March 2027, the report said. The 2.10-fold gap compares with 2.06-fold in the previous lower house race in 2024, when it improved from 2.08-fold in 2021 after a revised law cut one seat each from 10 less-populated prefectures and allocated them to Tokyo and four other densely populated prefectures. Morgan McSweeney was in the heart of government and the Prime Minister's closest political ally, as Shehab Khan reports Morgan McSweeney has quit as the prime ministers chief of staff, saying he takes "full responsibility" for advising Sir Keir Starmer to appoint Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. Starmer's right-hand man had faced intensifying calls from within the Labour Party to go after being blamed by many for pushing the appointment of Lord Mandelson. Advertisement Advertisement Mandelson was sacked as the Prime Minister's top diplomat in Washington last year over his relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Since then, he has resigned from the Labour Party and stepped down from the House of Lords after new documents released from the US Justice Department suggested he leaked market-sensitive information to Epstein during the financial crisis. In a statement released on Sunday, McSweeney said the decision to appoint Lord Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US was wrong and he takes full responsibility for advising Starmer to do so. McSweeney said: After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the Government. Advertisement Advertisement "The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. Mandelson should give back or donate US ambassador pay-off, minister says Brown backs PM but says leadership crisis is serious in wake of Mandelson row "In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside. This has not been an easy decision. Much has been written and said about me over the years but my motivations have always been simple: I have worked every day to elect and support a government that puts the lives of ordinary people first and leads us to a better future for our great country. Advertisement Advertisement "Only a Labour government will do that. I leave with pride in all we have achieved mixed with regret at the circumstances of my departure. "But I have always believed there are moments when you must accept your responsibility and step aside for the bigger cause. As I leave I have two further reflections: Firstly, and most importantly, we must remember the women and girls whose lives were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein and whose voices went unheard for far too long. Secondly, while I did not oversee the due diligence and vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled. This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future. Keir Starmer and Peter Mandelson last year. Credit: PA I remain fully supportive of the Prime Minister. He is working every day to rebuild trust, restore standards and serve the country. Advertisement Advertisement "I will continue to back that mission in whatever way I can. It has been the honour of my life to serve. Reacting to his chief of staffs departure, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: Its been an honour working with Morgan McSweeney for many years. "He turned our party around after one of its worst ever defeats and played a central role running our election campaign. "It is largely thanks to his dedication, loyalty and leadership that we won a landslide majority and have the chance to change the country. Having worked closely with Morgan in opposition and in government, I have seen every day his commitment to the Labour Party and to our country. Our party and I owe him a debt of gratitude, and I thank him for his service. Advertisement Advertisement Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said the prime minister should take responsibility for his actions, in reaction to his chief of staff Morgan McSweeneys departure. She said on X: Its about time. But once again with this PM its somebody elses fault: Mandelson lied to me or Morgan advised me. Keir Starmer has to take responsibility for his own terrible decisions. But he never does. ITV News has attempted to contact Mandelson multiple times in relation to the allegations against him but has not received a response. He has previously said he has "no recollection" of receiving the sums of money mentioned and said he does "not know if the documents are authentic". Subscribe free to our weekly newsletter for exclusive and original coverage from ITV News. Direct to your inbox every Friday morning. From Westminster to Washington DC - our political experts are across all the latest key talking points. Listen to the latest episode below... Missouri State University will now have one of its schools carry a family name. The university announced a seven-figure gift Monday, Feb. 9, that will name the School of Accountancy for the Pendleton family. Dick Pendleton, an MSU alumnus (Southwest Missouri State at the time), started his accounting career at Baird, Kurtz and Dobson in Springfield. The firm continued to grow into BKD and after a merger is now Forvis Mazars, a top 10 global professional services network. After leaving Forvis Mazars, Pendleton started several restaurants and developed local neighborhoods. MSU President Biff Williams said during the announcement Monday the gift marks a historic moment in the university's history as the school of accountancy will be the first named school. The school currently has almost 600 students and 12 faculty members. Advertisement Advertisement The gift will provide scholarships, invest in faculty programming and support students and staff alike. School Director Kim Church said faculty are not always considered in gifts made to the university, making the Pendletons' generosity particularly special. Dick Pendleton's daughters, Sheri Law (left) and Sally Phillips (right) make remarks at the Missouri State University's announcement of the Pendleton family's gift to the School of Accountancy on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at Glass Hall. "The investment that you've made in us makes sure that our faculty will be up-skilled, that we will be creating innovative programs that will have students career ready for an evolving profession, including more AI and emerging tech than I can keep up with when I sleep at night," Church said. While Pendleton was not in attendance at the Monday campus announcement, two of his daughters, Sheri Law and Sally Phillips, made remarks on behalf of the family. Both daughters are certified public accountants, with Phillips also a graduate of MSU, and two granddaughters also are on track to pursue the profession. "We're excited and so grateful for the opportunity to help with the future of accounting students going through the Pendleton Family School of Accountancy who will ultimately help make tomorrow better than today in the profession of accounting," Phillips said. Advertisement Advertisement David Meinert, dean of the College of Business, said accountants and those receiving a financial degree education are a vital part in the regional and state economy. Without the support of alumni who seek to give back to their alma mater, he said, investments in programs are not possible. More: Student sues Carl Junction schools for not addressing stalking reports Isaac Moon, a graduate student at MSU, recounted his own experiences going through the accountancy program. He shared the unique and real-life application skills he was able to gain throughout his education, making him among the most knowledgeable in his internships. "No part of my experience would have been possible without scholarships by way of generous donors and the donations that we receive in general. I am a first-generation student, and nearly my entire cost of attendance has been covered by foundational and institutional scholarships," Moon said. "So, it makes me ecstatic to know the students that come behind me will continue to have opportunities similar to and hopefully even exceeding those that I have had." Advertisement Advertisement Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Dick Pendleton family makes 7-figure gift to MSU School of Accountancy NASA and SpaceX are preparing to launch the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station. SpaceX announced Monday that the launch, initially planned for Wednesday morning, has been moved back to no earlier than Thursday. Officials said the delay is due to unfavorable weather conditions in the ascent corridor. The four-person crew will depart from the Kennedy Space Center aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. Advertisement Advertisement The launch comes after the Federal Aviation Administration briefly grounded the SpaceX Falcon 9 fleet last week. The agency issued the grounding order after a rocket experienced an issue after launching from California. The four Crew-12 astronauts are currently in quarantine at the Kennedy Space Center. This isolation period is a standard safety procedure to ensure the health of the crew before they board the space station. The mission commander stated that the crew has spent the last several days completing final preparations for the flight. Channel 9 will continue to monitor the planned launch and provide updates on Eyewitness News. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Astronomers have discovered what appears to be an exoplanet that could be a distant Earthly paradise. Or it could be a frigid realm even chillier than Mars, incapable of supporting life. The margins are very fine when studying planets outside our solar system. But this new candidate planet, dubbed HD 137010 b, is an especially promising detection that hints at a habitable world that in many ways appears to mirror our own. As detailed in a new study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters and highlighted by NASA, the rocky outpost orbits a Sun-like star and is nearly the same size as Earth. Its orbit is almost a carbon copy, too, equal to around 355 Earth days. Even better? Its practically next door. Advertisement Advertisement Whats very exciting about this particular Earth-sized planet is that its star is only [about] 150 light-years away from our solar system, coauthor Chelsea Huang, a researcher at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia, told The Guardian. The next best planet around a sun-like star, in a habitable zone, [Kepler-186f] is about four times farther away and 20 times fainter. The researchers discovered the candidate world while examining data gathered by the NASA Kepler space telescope in 2017. It captured only a single transit of the exoplanet, in which it passes in front of its star and causes a detectable dip in light. This left behind enough clues to infer its size and speed. The big and obvious difference between our star system and the candidate exoplanets is the star itself. Our Sun is considered a G-type yellow dwarf, steadily burning at a moderate temperature for billions of years. But HD 137010 is a K-type orange dwarf, which is slightly smaller and cooler. That means the candidate exoplanet potentially receives less than a third of the light and heat that the Earth does, with estimated temperatures lower than minus 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Mars, for comparison, is around minus 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Theres significant debate among astronomers over whether smaller stars like orange and red dwarfs are ideal hosts for habitable worlds because of how closely a planet needs to orbit them to stay in their habitable zone. At such proximity, a planet could be tidally locked to the star, a state in which its unable to rotate, forcing the same side of the planet to face the star for eternity. Advertisement Advertisement That said, theres a good chance that HD 137010 b could be a temperate and even watery world if it has a much more carbon dioxide rich atmosphere than Earth, allowing it to trap what little heat it receives. Mars is thought to have once been warm and wet, too, before its atmosphere, which may have also been swimming with CO2, largely vanished billions of years ago. Follow-up observations are needed before the matter is settled. Sara Webb, an astrophysicist at Swinburne University, called the discovery exciting but told The Guardian that three transits, not just one, are considered the gold standard for planetary science. Still, Huang says the detection was a textbook example of a planetary transit, thanks to the closeness and brightness of the star. More on space: Theres Something Fascinating Hiding Under Jupiters Clouds, Scientists Find Nashville Police have arrested a lineman after another's shoulder was torn while the two worked to restore power after Winter Storm Fern. Harley Deline, 36, was charged with aggravated assault Feb. 7 after a Jan. 30 fight. The victim reported to police Feb. 6 that the two men were working on restoring power to a Madison neighborhood on Nix Road. "While working, he stated the defendant was working on the transformer and he was assisting other coworkers with another component of the power source when the defendant attempted to activate the transformer at a time it was not safe to do so," Deline's affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement The victim told Deline to keep the transformer off while he tried to go make contact with a homeowner. As he walked to the back of the home, the victim said he saw Deline closing the transformer. "He shouted across the yard for the defendant to stop," the affidavit said. The two men exchanged heated words before Deline told the victim to come to the fence. "When the victim got to the fence, he stated the defendant jumped over the fence and began assaulting him," the affidavit said, noting that Deline stripped all his heavy winter weather gear down to base layers before going over the fence. "The victim stated the defendant grabbed his shoulder and began manipulating it as he kicked the victim's feet out from under him." Advertisement Advertisement The victim yelled at Deline to stop twisting his shoulder, but he didn't, the affidavit said. The victim suffered a torn pectoral muscle and a torn shoulder which will require surgery, the affidavit said. Deline was booked into the Dowtown Detention Center Feb. 7 and released on a $10,000 bond. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville police arrest lineman after attack amid winter storm repair The Pentagon will award the Purple Heart to Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and posthumously to Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, two members of the West Virginia National Guard who were fired upon in an ambush-style shooting just blocks from the White House in November. Beckstrom, 20, succumbed to her wounds on Nov. 27, while Wolfe, 24, underwent surgery for a gunshot to the head and has since made extraordinary progress, according to the National Guard. The fatal attack occurred the day before Thanksgiving during a routine patrol outside of a Washington, D.C., Metro station. One lost, one recovered, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said Friday during a reenlistment ceremony at the Washington Monument. Both soon-to-be Purple Heart recipients because they were attacked by a radical. Advertisement Advertisement Communities honor West Virginia National Guard members shot in DC The Purple Heart is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed by enemy action while serving in the U.S. military. Hegseth added that medals will also be given to those who responded in that moment which he described as the real-deal; its the front lines. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the 29-year-old suspected gunman, has been arraigned on nine charges, including first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill. He has pleaded not guilty. Lakanwal is an Afghan national who immigrated to the United States in 2021 after having previously worked for more than a decade with C.I.A.-backed units in Afghanistan. The Department of Justice said it will seek the death penalty against him. Advertisement Advertisement The troops were deployed to Washington as part of President Donald Trumps crackdown on purportedly out of control crime in the nations capital. Trump called the attack on Beckstrom and Wolfe an act of terror, and pledged to send 500 additional troops to Washington. The Guard is expected to remain through the end of the year, U.S. officials told Military Times. West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey, who formally requested the medals in December, hailed the Pentagons decision as a long-overdue honor. Their actions while protecting our nations capital meet the highest standards for this recognition, Morrisey wrote in a post on X. This announcement brings long-overdue honor to their service, offers meaning and reassurance to their families, and stands as a solemn reminder that West Virginia will never forget those who sacrifice in defense of others. Mecklenburg Countys top leaders were in the hot seat in the states capitol Monday. They were called by, and at times scolded by, lawmakers. This hearing is not going to be butterflies and roses, said Chairman Brenden Jones. The oversight committee held the hearing in the aftermath of Iryna Zarutskas murder on Charlottes Blue Line last year. Police say she was killed by a man who had been arrested multiple times before. Advertisement Advertisement Her blood is on your hands, Chairman Jones said. Mecklenburg County District Attorney Spencer Merriweather called on state lawmakers to create better policies to deal with repeat offenders. By the time a resident in a community knows that that person is a cancer in that community, we ought to make sure that weve got the teeth to deal with it, Merriweather said. Sheriff Garry McFadden It was a heated back and forth between Republican lawmakers and Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden that stole the show. I am the elephant in the room, but Im the proud elephant in the room, Sheriff McFadden said. The sheriff was grilled on how he runs his jail, works or doesnt work with ICE, and allegations on how he treats his staff. The latter of which McFadden would not answer questions about because of an ongoing state investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Ive heard you blame staff. Ive heard you blame lobbyists. Ive heard you blame the legislature. I have not heard you take responsibility for a single question that we have asked you today, said Representative Allen Chesser. Sheriff McFadden responded, saying he wants to work with the state in a more collaborative way. I want a better relationship to work with this body, Sheriff McFadden said. We need a better relationship working with this body. Mayor Vi Lyles, CMPD Chief Estella Patterson If the sheriff was a grilling, the other Charlotte leaders were more of a slow simmer. Chairman Jones says he wants Charlotte in the news for good reasons and vowed to work with them. Advertisement Advertisement A morning of fireworks was followed by an afternoon of respect. Charlotte officials vowed to work with state lawmakers on the citys challenges. We are not perfect by any means, Mayor Vi Lyles said. The conversation ranged from the citys preparation for the 2027 Military World Games to Chief Estella Pattersons public safety goals and what she thinks of people blowing whistles at ICE. I dont think its right, to heckle or interfere or to intervene in the work, the lawful work that police officers and law enforcement is doing, the police chief said. Public transportation safety The conversation was generally friendly, but Chairman Jones questioned why CATS would spend more than $3 million on a marketing contract instead of investing more in public safety. Advertisement Advertisement We dont want you making national news for the wrong reasons, Chairman Jones said. The city manager assured him that CATS has ramped up security measures and lawmakers seemed generally pleased with what they heard. The day started out with Representative Jones calling out incompetence, but one of his committee members says he didnt see any of that. I just didnt see any evidence that the leadership and public safety officials in Mecklenburg County are incompetent, Representative Eric Ager said. Interim CATS CEO Brent Cagle was not asked any questions. State lawmakers also did not ask them any questions about Iryna Zarutska. VIDEO: Hearing over public safety in Charlotte pushed back to February North Carolina Legislative Building (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) Following unusual levels of ice and snowfall across the state this year, Rep. Cynthia Ball is introducing a bill to help North Carolina better respond to winter weather. Ball, who serves as state House Deputy Democratic Leader and lives in Raleigh, spoke about the legislation on the House floor on Monday. Although North Carolina historically has mild winters, that hasnt been the case recently. Advertisement Advertisement When winter weather hits and local roads remain unsafe, even long after daybreak, the consequences for our economy can be severe, particularly to our cities and towns where most commerce and employment occur, Ball said. Widespread closures and shipping delays can cause thousands of dollars in lost productivity, Ball continued. Rep. Cynthia Ball (D-Wake) (Photo: ncleg.gov) She said shes heard from many frustrated parents about how differing road conditions across the state can lead to school closures while parents are required to go into work, leaving them to find caregivers on short notice. It is time for us to accept that this is not a one-off event, but the beginning of a new normal, Ball said. If our economy is to survive and prosper, we have to act decisively. Advertisement Advertisement The legislation, titled Keeping North Carolina Open for Business, would provide the state Dept. of Transportation with funding to help municipalities prepare for snow and ice. The DOT would help local governments pay to equip existing sanitation or dump trucks to plow the roads. Balls proposal also includes using technology like GPS-based tracking and online maps to show plowing activity after snow and ice storms. Recent snowstorms have cost the state millions of dollars. North Carolina faced back-to-back weekends with snow and ice last month, leading state government officials to spend at least $33.4 million for DOT alone, including $5 million to buy more salt to clear the roads, WRAL reported. Those numbers dont include overtime for workers or additional costs for any other state agencies. Theres only enough salt in North Carolina for one more big snowstorm, according to Ball. She isnt sure what will happen if theres more than that this year, but said it would likely require coordination between the DOT, Gov. Josh Steins office, and state lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement DOT spokesperson Aaron Moody told NC Newsline the agency has 65,000 tons of salt remaining, which is enough to respond to a typical statewide winter weather event. The department has been in regular contact with suppliers and is expecting additional shipments that will replenish the supply the first of which is expected next week, Moody wrote in an email. Steins office did not respond to request for comment. Ball will formally file the bill in April. In the meantime, shes coordinating with her colleagues to gain their support and hearing feedback from local communities. We want to have it ready to go as soon as the session comes, she said. This story has been updated to include comment from the North Carolina Department of Transportation. As North Carolina lawmakers remain silent about the future of a program that funds legal services for low-income residents from pursuing Hurricane Helene relief to escaping abusive relationships the states largest legal aid provider is closing offices and laying off staff. As of January, more than 56 full-time employees across multiple organizations have lost their jobs amid GOP lawmakers concerns about how attorney-generated funds are being spent, according to a January update from the agency that manages the N.C. Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts. Hardest hit may be Legal Aid of North Carolina, which provides free legal help to low-income North Carolinians in civil court. The freeze produced a $6 million budget gap in 2026, about 15% of its budget, forcing it to start closing offices and cut jobs, Ashley Campbell, Legal Aids CEO, told The News & Observer. Advertisement Advertisement Other organizations reduced or consolidated positions, according to the IOLTA January update. That has meant slower response times and, at times, attorneys offering advice by phone instead of appearing in court and thousands of people not receiving help, according to the report and interviews. Meanwhile, the money raised last year, remains frozen under legislation passed last summer. For both NC IOLTA, the agency that awards the grants, and groups that rely on them, its unclear when or whether the money will flow again. GOP leaders have given NC IOLTAs leaders no information about future hearings or when the funding might be restored, said the organizations executive director Mary Irvine. Advertisement Advertisement The freeze is in place through the end of June, and we really dont know when there might be movement on that, Irvine said. In response to a freeze to North Carolina IOLTA funding, Legal Aid of North Carolina is closing nine offices, including at this location in Rocky Mount. (Courtesy of Legal Aid of North Carolina) What is NC IOLTA? Why are funds frozen? The IOLTA, a program of the North Carolina State Bar, is one of many across the 50 states using bank account interest to help people and families with low incomes navigate civil courts. N.C. IOLTA collects interest earned on attorneys bank accounts holding clients money. The interest pays for IOLTA staff and grant money. Last year, IOLTA gave about $12 million in grants to about 40 organizations that provide legal services across the state. But the process for awarding grants with the money halted in North Carolina by a July provision tucked in a bill that suspended IOLTAs grant-making process from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement The pause allowed the legislature to investigate how IOLTAs board and grantees are selected, Rep. Henry Warren, a Salisbury Republican, said at an October House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform hearing. A slide presented by state Rep. Henry Warren, a Salisbury Republican, during an October hearing on IOLTA funding before the N.C. House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform. GOP leaders concerns Warren, who is a committee co-chair, has accused NC IOLTA of straying from its mission by supporting leftist groups that are actively working to break or dismantle laws. Among the organizations that Warren expressed concern about was the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights, which has received $55,000 in IOLTA funds to provide legal services in the state. At the 2025 hearing, he flashed a slide on the screen with a quote from the Washington D.C.-based group. The United States wealth and power is built upon stolen land from enslaved labor and under the racist lie that white people were superior to Black people, indigenous people, and people of color, the quote said. Amount of funds N.C. IOLTA has raised over the years. (Courtesy of N.C. House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform) IOLTA officials responded, explaining that some of the agencies they support provide both legal services and advocacy. Advertisement Advertisement IOLTA critics raised questions about whether the money should be directed elsewhere. As we looked into it, we wondered, Whose money is it anyway? Does the interest earned belong to the client? Or, since the State Bar is a state agency, should the money be considered part of the General Fund to be appropriated by the General Assembly? Warren said. Peter Bolac, executive director of the N.C. State Bar, said at the October hearing that IOLTA could add additional restrictions to prevent money from going to organizations involved in grassroots lobbying. Co-chairs Reps. Jake Johnson and Harry Warren lead a House Oversight Committee hearing in 2024 at the Legislative Building. (Travis Long/tlong@newsobserver.com) Whats next? Towards the end of the more than one-hour and 10-minute question-and-answer session before the GOP-led committee, Warren indicated that there would be more discussion about legislators concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Were going to ask you to come back because obviously theres a lot of interest from the Committee on the organization, Warren said. But more than three months have passed, and IOLTA officials dont know where things stand, Irvine said in an interview. Demi Dowdy, deputy chief of staff for House Speaker Destin Hall, said additional hearings regarding IOLTA are not planned. North Carolina House Speaker Destin Hall addresses the gallery in October 2025 at the General Assembly in Raleigh. (Robert Willett/rwillett@newsobserver.com) The uncertainty is already reshaping legal aid across the state, according to interviews Due to its need to do more with less money, Legal Aid is closing nine offices, cutting staff by 40 people, and scaling back programs that could help with disaster recovery, domestic violence protection and health and consumer issues, said Campbell, CEO of Legal Aid of North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement The organization will serve 8,000 fewer people than in 2025, Campbell said. Last year, Legal Aid assisted over 47,000 total household members, including over 21,000 children, Campbell said. What were hoping is that there can be a resolution that addresses whatever concerns they have, while allowing civil legal aid to be supported in our state, Campbell said. Gallant accused the prime minister of attempting to engineer the perception of Israeli society: "They take snippets of discussions and sentences from long periods of time, piece them together." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "is a liar," his former defense minister Yoav Gallant charged in an interview with Channel 12s Meet the Press on Saturday evening, directly challenging Netanyahus intelligence documents regarding the months leading up to the October 7 massacre. The documents, released by the Prime Ministers Office on Thursday evening, detail protocols from various defense and security meetings as part of Netanyahus response to the State Comptrollers probes into October 7 - probes that were frozen by the High Court of Justice in late 2025. Advertisement Advertisement In the documents, Netanyahu places the blame for Israels failed security policy in Gaza on his former defense ministers, including Gallant, as well as other senior defense officials, including former heads of the Shin Bet and the Israeli military. Netanyahu trying to 'engineer perception' on October 7 failure In response, Gallant accused the prime minister of attempting to "engineer the perception" of Israeli society. "They take snippets of discussions and sentences from long periods of time, piece them together, and turn them into a news item," Gallant said. "I respect the institution of the prime minister, but I never thought I would have to come here and say - we have a lying prime minister. The prime minister is lying." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, flanked by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (left) and IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi, holds a security assessment in Tel Aviv. (credit: HAIM ZACH/GPO) Gallant went on to argue that Netanyahu had made false claims about his own actions immediately following the October 7 attacks. "In the discussion protocols, he is quoted as saying he made decisions at 8 or 9 a.m. on the day," Gallant said. Advertisement Advertisement "The prime minister had not yet arrived at the Kirya. I arrived at 9 a.m., concluded a situational assessment with the IDF, and Netanyahu still had not arrived." He also disputed Netanyahus suggestion that the defense establishment was hesitant or averse to launching operations targeting terror leaders - an implication made repeatedly in the documents. Gallant: Netanyahu tried to delay strike against Hezbollah's Nasrallah Regarding the targeted operation against former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Gallant said security officials from the IDF and Mossad had stressed the urgent need to act in a briefing held a day before the operation. "The head of Military Intelligence said, There is a chance he will leave his bunker, leaving us little time to issue the order," Gallant recalled. "Netanyahu replied, We will discuss it when I return from the US on Sunday." Advertisement Advertisement According to Gallant, his trust in Netanyahu was broken after the prime minister "stabbed [the defense establishment heads] in the back and fomented a revolt among government ministers against them." "This does not meet my standards I have an order of priorities: the State of Israel, the defense establishment, the IDF and other security forces, and only after that, Yoav Gallant," he said. "Netanyahus order of priorities is first and foremost himself." VIENTIANE, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- As the Chinese New Year approaches, a colorful festive spirit is filling Laos. Red decorations are being displayed, festive activities are underway, and excitement is building among the people as they prepare to celebrate the holiday. "During the festival, the streets would feel alive, with dragon dances, music, and bright colors everywhere. It's fun and full of color," Pook, a resident of Lao capital Vientiane, told Xinhua. She added that the festival offers a variety of activities to join, and she is looking forward to trying new experiences this year. Meanwhile, Mie, a 20-year-old student in Vientiane, highlighted the joy and lively atmosphere of the festival. "I remember when I took extra Chinese language classes to improve my skills. Our teachers would organize fun activities to celebrate the festival, where we could sing Chinese songs and learn more about the culture," she said. "Even though I'm not Chinese, the festival makes everyone feel part of the festive spirit. It always lifts our energy and warms our hearts, because we can gather to share meals, meet elders, and play with the younger ones," she added. The 2026 Chinese New Year's vibrant celebrations bring the Chinese and Lao communities together. The festivities began on Feb. 4 with the "Singing and Dancing Along the Way, Sharing Affection" event aboard the China-Laos Railway, turning trains into "mobile stages" with performances, folk activities, and storytelling that connected participants across borders. From Feb. 7 to 8, the Chinese Cultural Center in Laos hosted additional events featuring traditional music, dance, crafts, heritage exhibits, and food tasting. Officials said the celebrations allow Lao people to experience Chinese culture firsthand while strengthening the friendship between the two nations. The events highlighted the enduring cultural ties and close bond between China and Laos. On the other hand, vendors and business owners welcome the festival as a sign of renewed energy in the markets. Along the streets of Vientiane at night, the glow of red lanterns and the vibrant red and gold of traditional Chinese Qipao dresses stand out against the cityscape. Lina, a Lao vendor, noted that besides decorations like lanterns, Qipao remains extremely popular among locals. She explained that Lao customers are eager to buy the elegant dress, which has become a symbol of the festival in Laos. "Every year, Qipao is always popular. People like it because it is beautiful, colorful, and brings a special feeling to the festival. Even those who are not Chinese enjoy wearing it for photos, family gatherings, and celebrations," Lina said. She added that younger people are now more creative with their outfits, mixing traditional Qipao with modern accessories. "It shows that the festival is evolving and that cultural exchange can be joyful," she added. Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Washington this week amid fears in Israel that Donald Trump will strike a weak deal with Iran. Mr Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, had been expected to travel to the US in mid-February for the first meeting of Mr Trumps Board of Peace. But the meeting was brought forward following the initial round of US-Iran talks in Oman on Friday. Jared Kushner, Mr Trumps son-in-law, and Steve Witkoff, his special envoy, represented the US. Advertisement Advertisement Israel is demanding that any agreement reached at the talks includes limitations on Tehrans ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorist groups, rather than only its nuclear ambitions. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, has said he wants talks to extend well beyond Irans nuclear programme. However, there is unease in Israel that Mr Trump will ultimately favour a narrow deal on nuclear enrichment that will do nothing to address Israels other concerns. While the talks were initially hailed as positive, Abbas Araghchi, Irans foreign minister, has since ruled out his country giving up uranium enrichment. Some observers suggest have said that may have been directed at appeasing hardliners at home, rather than a negotiating tactic. Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, with Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, the Omani foreign minister, in Muscat for US-Iran talks on Friday - Getty On Monday, Irans atomic chief said he could agree to dilute the most highly enriched uranium in exchange for the lifting of all sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organisation, said: The possibility of diluting 60 per cent enriched uranium ... depends on whether, in return, all sanctions are lifted or not. In Iran, several prominent reformist politicians have been arrested in a sweeping crackdown on those who criticised the regimes deadly suppression of protests. The arrests targeted leaders of the Reformist Front, a coalition of 27 parties that supported president Masoud Pezeshkian in the 2024 elections. That suggests hardliners are moving to silence any voices that might complicate nuclear negotiations or challenge the regimes narrative about the protests and the talks. A newspaper in Tehran covers the start of nuclear talks between the US and Iran, which follow the deaths of thousands of protesters - Anadolu Security forces detained Azar Mansouri, the head of the Reformist Front, Ebrahim Asgharzadeh, Mohsen Aminzadeh, Javad Imam, a spokesman for the coalition of moderate political groups, and Ali Shakouri Rad, a member of the Central Council of the Union of the Nation Party. Advertisement Advertisement As thousands of protesters were killed last month, the Reformist Front issued a statement saying a large part of Iranian citizens have lost their trust in all institutions and capacities that were supposed to be the refuge, representative and pursuer of their demands. The group called for the formation of an independent truth-finding committee and a transparent and frank report to the Iranian people. It also demanded the supreme national security council explain how, with the presence of this volume of security, intelligence and law enforcement institutions, according to their own official accounts, such a large number of unknown armed elements were able to be active throughout the country and systematically and mercilessly kill thousands of Iranian citizens? That question struck at the heart of the Iranian regimes narrative about the protests, implicitly challenging whether official accounts of the violence were accurate. Advertisement Advertisement The Islamic Republic has blamed the deaths on foreign-backed terrorists and unknown armed elements rather than acknowledging security forces opened fire on protesters. Mehdi Karroubi, whose son was arrested Monday, issued a statement after the crackdown saying Irans dire situation is the direct result of destructive domestic and international interventions and policies by Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader. By detaining reformist leaders who supported president Pezeshkians election, authorities are signalling that even those within the political establishment will not be tolerated if they question the handling of dissent. Meanwhile, Narges Mohammadi, who was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize, has been handed further prison sentences of seven and a half years by an Iranian court. Advertisement Advertisement The US now has a considerable strike force close to Iran, having had insufficient assets in the region while protesters were being massacred by the regime last month. Initially wary, Israel is now thought to be enthusiastic about Mr Trump launching strikes. Satellite imagery shows damage to Irans Isfahan nuclear complex following air strikes in June - Vantor Accompanying Mr Netanyahu on his visit this week is Brigadier General Omer Tischler, the next head of Israels air force. He will reportedly share Israeli intelligence with US counterparts to maximise the effectiveness of any strikes and improve coordination with the Israel Defence Forces. Reports in the US suggest Mr Trump is cooling on the idea of military action because it would not necessarily lead to a decisive result namely toppling the regime. Advertisement Advertisement He is also being intensively lobbied by Gulf states, many of whom are key allies in his Gaza peace process and wider Board of Peace, not to launch a war. They fear the instability from a toppled or gravely damaged Tehran more than the regime in its current form. A newspaper in Tehran covers the start of nuclear talks between the US and Iran, which follow the deaths of thousands of protesters - Anadolu Although Mr Kushner and Mr Witkoff are key allies when it comes to Gaza, are being seen in Israel as relatively doveish on Iran, with security officials speaking favourably of the more hawkish approach of Mr Rubio, and Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary. On Monday, Kamal Kharazi, an adviser to Mr Khamenei, described the talks as good, but added: America must have come to its senses that previous paths dont lead anywhere and they must take new paths. The supreme leader continues to avoid making any public appearances that could make him vulnerable to an assassination attempt from the US or domestically. This includes failing to attend an Iranian air force event on Sunday that had been attended by the supreme leader for 37 years. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A trooper with the Nevada State Police shot at a driver who they said pointed a gun at them after troopers pulled them over for running a red light on Sunday morning. Shortly before 1 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 8, Nevada State Police Highway Patrol troopers initiated a traffic stop near the southbound I-15 on-ramp at St. Rose Parkway. According to a release from NSP, the driver had failed to stop at a red light. Advertisement Advertisement During the traffic stop, troopers observed indicators of suspected impaired driving and asked the driver to exit the vehicle. The driver refused to cooperate or leave the vehicle. One of the troopers then saw the driver pointing a gun at them, so the trooper shot their firearm into the drivers side window. The driver was then taken into custody without further incident and was taken to a local hospital. After the driver was released from the hospital, they were booked into the Clark County Detention Center on unknown charges. No serious injuries were reported for either the driver or the troopers involved. Advertisement Advertisement NSP did not name the driver involved, nor did they say what charges the driver was facing. State police said the incident was being investigated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Additional information will be given following the investigation. This is a developing story, stay with 8 News Now for updates. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Feb. 6 (UPI) -- A group of prominent Nigerian religious and traditional leaders visited Washington, D.C., this week seeking understanding and support for addressing their country's critical security situation as a result of ethnic and religious based violence. The group comprised three Christian leaders, both Catholic and Protestant, and three Muslim imams, one of whom is also a traditional ruler in Zamfara state in northwestern Nigeria. Last Wednesday, they briefed international stakeholders on the current state of the security crisis in Nigeria and discussed interfaith action priorities with potential international partners. Advertisement Advertisement Ambassador Sam Brownback, former U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom, and chairman of the 2026 International Religious Freedom Summit underscored the urgency of the situation. He told the working group, "If this moment is not wisely used, you could lose the country. I fear this is the road this is starting down without sustainable solutions. You don't have a lot of time." The virtual disappearance of state sovereignty in certain rule areas where armed groups extort taxes, requisition harvests, and hijack local government was a central issue of concern. In addition, estimates of internally displaced people, or IDPs, as a result of armed conflict range from 3.5 million to 8 million. Most IDPs are forced to live in hastily assembled refugee camps. "This should not be possible in 2026," said Cardinal John Onyaikan, one of the visiting faith leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Nigeria's fragile security situation had directly affected members of the visiting group. Alhaji Hassan Attihuru, the Emir of Bungudu, in Zamfara state, challenged the idea that kidnappings and killings were targeted on religious grounds. He himself had been kidnapped by members of his own Fulani people who were fellow Muslims. Rev. John Hayab is a Baptist minister in Kaduna State, and the country Director of Global Peace Foundation Nigeria. Students at a school his church ran were kidnapped and held for ransom. His son was one of a small group that managed to escape into the nearby forest. The group's visit to America was a follow-up to the Abuja High-Level Interfaith Dialogue, convened by the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria last December. The meeting produced a blunt statement challenging the federal government to do more to combat the violence. It also established a Joint Interfaith Advocacy Committee on Freedom of Religion and Belief that agreed to increase peace messaging to affected communities and track progress on reducing incidents of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Attending the dialogue in D.C. from the American side were representatives of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, Global Impact, Religious Freedom Institute, Alliance Defending Freedom, the U.S. State Department and American University. Cardinal Onyaikan told those present, "Our problems are self-inflicted so we need our own solutions. But no nation is an island, so we also need support." The dialogue was co-sponsored by the Global Peace Foundation, Religious Freedom Institute and Pepperdine University. Summing up the meeting, Father Canice Enyiaka, Global Peace Foundation director of African Peace Initiatives said, "Bringing the experience and insights of faith leaders here to Washington is very important because of the seriousness of the current crisis. Religious faith is a powerful force in Nigeria and I am grateful for all the organizations supporting religious freedom and human rights represented here." Advertisement Advertisement Yesterday, the Nigerian group met with the staff of Rep. Riley Moore (R-W.Va.), who has been vocal about the violence suffered by Christians in Nigeria. They are said to be preparing a report on the security threats to Nigerian Christians for President Donald Trump with options for how the U.S. government should respond. The visiting group briefed the staff on the complexities of the situation and the role that interfaith cooperation at the leadership level can play in addressing it. They agreed to continue to receive their input after their return to Nigeria. North Carolina is facing a critical housing shortage, with an estimated 800,000 units needed statewide. As major employers like Toyota, Boom Supersonic and JetZero bring tens of thousands of jobs to the state, the question becomes urgent: Where will workers live? For the N.C. Business Minds podcast series, we talked with Jon Hardister, president of the Triad Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition and a former six-term state legislator, about whats at stake in the housing shortage. Hardister explains why the average first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old and whether efforts to address density and development challenges are likely to resurface in the General Assembly after stalling amid opposition last year. This conversation reveals how North Carolinas housing shortage could threaten economic development and what stakeholders are doing now to solve it before its too late. Read more here. WATCH: NC House Oversight hearing on Charlotte safety underway North Dakota Rep. Brandon Prichard, R-Bismarck, attends a special session of the Legislature on Oct. 23, 2023. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota state agencies have asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit challenging a state law that criminalizes lying or making intentionally misleading statements in political ads. Brandon Prichard, who represented Bismarck in the Legislature in 2023 and 2024, in early November filed suit over the states corrupt practices law, claiming that it violates the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement The Republican is a controversial figure in North Dakota politics in part for his attacks on incumbent Republican lawmakers. Prichard claims he and his wife, Kathryn, have been subject to investigations under the law, which makes it a class A misdemeanor to knowingly or with reckless disregard for its truth or falsity publish something false or misleading about a candidate or ballot measure. He said this was in spite of the fact that he considers his political speech ordinary and that he does not think he has ever made false or misleading political statements. Prichard wrote in court documents that he has self-censored his political speech to avoid being investigated again in the future, which he argues is a violation of his rights. Advertisement Advertisement His political action committee, Citizens Alliance of North Dakota, is also listed as a plaintiff in the case. The lawsuit names the Attorney General Drew Wrigley, Burleigh County States Attorney Julie Lawyer as well as the North Dakota Ethics Commission and its executive director, Rebecca Binstock, as defendants. All three defendants have asked a federal court judge to dismiss the suit, in part because they say they do not enforce the statute Prichard is challenging. In the lawsuit, Prichard claimed he and his wife were under active investigation by the Burleigh County States Attorneys Office for alleged violations of the corrupt practices law. Advertisement Advertisement Lawyer, in a December court filing, said this is incorrect. She wrote that an investigator with her office contacted the Prichards in late 2024 after receiving complaints, but that she declined to prosecute. Lawyer stated in court records that she is unwilling to prosecute claims under the statute. Prichard in the lawsuit also alleges there have been multiple complaints filed with the Ethics Commission against him accusing him of violating the corrupt practices act, including one in 2023 and two filed against him and Citizens Alliance of North Dakota in 2024. The Ethics Commission, in a January response filed in the suit, said it could not confirm or deny the existence of the complaints, citing confidentiality laws. Advertisement Advertisement The commission in the document states that as of fall 2025, the Ethics Commission no longer reviews complaints reporting violations of the statute, or refers them for prosecution, because the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals found a similar law in Minnesota unconstitutional. The commission also noted that it doesnt investigate or prosecute crimes. Attorney General Drew Wrigley said in November court filings he has never prosecuted anyone under the law. His memo also states there is no record of the North Dakota Supreme Court upholding a criminal prosecution under the statute. Former legislative candidate Duane Sand was charged with violating the corrupt practices statute by Burleigh County prosecutors in 2018. His opponent, George Keiser, had filed a police report alleging Sand misstated the incumbents voting record, The Bismarck Tribune reported. Prosecutors later dropped the charge against Sand after those involved reached a private settlement. The Burleigh County States Attorneys Office, Ethics Commission and Attorney Generals Office in court records also argued Prichard does not have standing to bring the lawsuit because he has not sufficiently established that the agencies have caused him harm, or that a favorable ruling by the court would address that harm. Advertisement Advertisement The defendants further claim they are immune from the suit under the 11th Amendment, which holds that states generally cannot be sued in federal court without their consent. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Prichard wrote in a late January court filing that he was not aware he and his wife were not under active criminal investigation under the statute until he read the defendants responses to his suit. I am disappointed and vexed that it took filing a federal lawsuit against some of those with prosecutorial authority to learn that these prosecutors will say that they do not (at least right now) intend to criminally prosecute me, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement He told the North Dakota Monitor he still intends to proceed with the lawsuit. I believe that the marketplace of ideas will continue to be chilled by threat of criminal enforcement, Prichard wrote in a Jan. 30 court filing. North Dakota Monitor reporter Mary Steurer can be reached at msteurer@northdakotamonitor.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE By Terje Solsvik and Johan Ahlander OSLO/STOCKHOLM, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Norwegian police are investigating two high-profile diplomats in a corruption probe announced on Monday, part of a widening scandal in the Nordic country and across Europe over prominent figures' ties to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Mona Juul, who resigned as ambassador to Jordan and Iraq on Sunday, is suspected of gross corruption and her husband, former government minister Terje Roed-Larsen, is suspected of complicity in gross corruption, police said. Advertisement Advertisement "A new investigation has been opened in connection with the Epstein files ... We are facing a comprehensive and, by all accounts, long-term investigation," Norway's financial crimes squad, Oekokrim, said in a statement. Juul and Roed-Larsen are cooperating with the investigation and see no merit in the accusations against them, their lawyers said. EPSTEIN FILES REVEAL CLOSE FRIENDSHIP, FINANCIAL TIES Roed-Larsen's ties to Epstein initially came to light in the Norwegian press in 2019. He has apologised several times for the relationship and in 2020 stepped down as CEO of the New York-based International Peace Institute, a think tank. Advertisement Advertisement The couple's connections to the American financier, who killed himself in a New York jail in 2019, returned to the spotlight after the U.S. Justice Department released millions of pages of files related to his case last month. Among other references to Juul and Roed-Larsen, the files showed they made plans to visit Epstein's private island with their two children in 2011, though it was unclear if the visit took place. Roed-Larsen, who appeared to have a deeper friendship with Epstein than his wife, thanked Epstein for "everything you have done" in a text message in 2017 and called him his "best friend" and a "thoroughly good human being." Epstein also helped the couple negotiate an Oslo apartment purchase in 2018 and in an email exchange told the seller "it will become unpleasant" if he backed out of the deal over a price he considered too low. Advertisement Advertisement In a will signed two days before his death, Epstein stated that the couple's two children would stand to inherit $5 million each. Roed-Larsen's lawyer, John Christian Elden, said in a statement the police investigation centred on the 2018 real-estate transaction and "a possible trip in 2011". "Roed-Larsen is confident that once all the factual circumstances have been thoroughly reviewed, the investigation will clarify that there is no basis for criminal liability, and the case will be dismissed," Elden said. POLICE PROBE WHETHER JUUL RECEIVED BENEFITS TIED TO POSITION Juul has represented Norway as ambassador to Israel and Britain and at the United Nations. Referring to her, police said Oekokrim would investigate among other things whether "benefits were received in connection with her position." Advertisement Advertisement Juul viewed it positively that the allegations against her will now be subject to a thorough investigation, allowing the circumstances to be clarified, her lawyer Thomas Skjelbred said. "My client does not recognise the accusations made against her," Skjelbred said in a statement. The couple were part of a small group of diplomats facilitating the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords, seen at the time as a breakthrough in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, although peace in the region remains elusive. Roed-Larsen, 78, was briefly a cabinet minister in 1996 under then-Prime Minister Thorbjoern Jagland. Advertisement Advertisement Several other prominent Norwegians also had links to Epstein, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who has apologised. In Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is pushing back against calls for his resignation over his appointment of Peter Mandelson, who had previously known ties to Epstein, as ambassador to Washington. (Reporting by Terje Solsvik in Oslo and Johan Ahlander in Stockholm; Editing by Joe Bavier and Timothy Heritage) Interim University of Nebraska Medical Center Dele Davies. Jan. 15, 2026. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN The University of Nebraska officially launched the search last week for the next chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, with an initial eye toward internal candidates across NU. NU President Dr. Jeffrey Gold, the last permanent UNMC chancellor before becoming NU president in July 2024, announced that it will form a search committee. It will consist of representatives from UNMC, Nebraska Medicine, other NU campuses and the community. Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Dele Davies has served as interim chancellor since Gold became president. It is absolutely critical to find the right person to lead UNMC during this pivotal time for the campus, for health care and for higher education, Gold said in a statement. He continued: UNMC is a cornerstone of health care for our state, and its next leader must be deeply committed to advancing excellence in research, education and patient care for the benefit of Nebraska and beyond. University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold, left, and interim University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Kathy Ankerson host a listening session on Jan. 15, 2026, a few days after Ankerson assumed the top UNL administrative role. Gold previously said he anticipates the search for the next permanent UNL chancellor would begin in mid to late spring 2026. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Davies and Gold have particularly sought to rebuild trust and move on with the UNMC and Nebraska Medicine communities as NU proceeds with an $800 million deal with Clarkson Regional Health Services. The transaction, expected to close by June 30, will leave NU the sole owner of Nebraska Medicine, the nonprofit hospital, clinical and medical services partner to UNMC. Advertisement Advertisement Davies, in calling for support for the transaction last month at the NU Board of Regents meeting, said, We are already virtually the same organization and cannot afford to be divided. David Jackson, interim executive vice president and provost for NU, will lead the committee. Other members have not yet been identified. Executive search firm CarterBaldwin will assist. If the committee chooses, the search could expand nationally. The firm helped in choosing Nebraska native Neal Schnoor as the next University of Nebraska at Kearney chancellor last year. Schnoor had been a long-time UNK faculty member and administrator. Advertisement Advertisement CarterBaldwin will help create a comprehensive position profile for candidates. Jackson said it will reflect the critical role the next UNMC chancellor will play in the future of NU and the state. Once the position profile is complete, the committee will invite nominations and applications. Under state law, NU only has to name a single priority candidate who participates in a 30-day public vetting period that includes campus and community visits, as well as a UNMC tour. Jackson said the committee aims to have a permanent chancellor in place later this year. We are taking this search process very seriously, with a strong commitment to identifying a visionary and collaborative leader who can build on UNMCs momentum, Jackson said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement More information on the search is available at nebraska.edu/unmc-chancellor-search. Questions can be directed to UNMCChancellor@carterbaldwin.com. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Jihadist groups are increasingly carrying out drone strikes in West Africa, raising alarm that they are building the capacity to wage a "war from the skies". A leading violence monitoring organisation, Acled, has recorded at least 69 drone strikes by an al-Qaeda affiliate in Burkina Faso and Mali since 2023, while two Islamic State (IS) affiliates have carried out around 20 - mostly in Nigeria, which has been battling numerous insurgent groups for almost 25 years. The latest drone attack took place in Nigeria's north-eastern Borno state on 29 January, when jihadists carried out a two-pronged assault - with multiple armed drones and ground fighters - on a military base. Advertisement Advertisement The military said nine of its soldiers were killed in the attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (Iswap) - identified by Acled as the "most prolific" IS African affiliate in "drone warfare". The jihadists tended to carry out strikes with "commercially available, relatively inexpensive quadcopter [unmanned] drones" that were "rigged with explosives", while also using them for reconnaissance and surveillance missions in preparation for ground attacks, Acled senior Africa analyst Ladd Serwat told the BBC. Despite the fact that Nigeria's government tightly controls the import of commercial and hobby drones and prohibits their use without official permission, the jihadists were able to obtain them through their smuggling networks across the region's porous borders, said a Nigeria-based senior researcher at the Good Governance Africa think-tank, Malik Samuel. "The growing use of armed and surveillance drones by violent extremist groups in the Sahel and Lake Chad region is deeply concerning, and it marks a significant shift," security analyst Audu Bulama Bukarti told the BBC. Advertisement Advertisement "Drones lower the cost of conducting attacks, allow militants to gather intelligence with minimal risk and enable strikes on military targets that were previously harder to reach," he added. According to Serwat, Iswap has carried out 10 drone strikes since 2024 in north-eastern Nigeria as well as in northern Cameroon, southern Niger, and southern Chad - all countries affected by the insurgency in Nigeria. A similar number of drone attacks were carried out by another IS affiliate, the Islamic State of Sahel Province (ISSP), in West Africa, Acled data shows. In its latest attack, ISSP carried out an assault on the international airport in Niger's capital, Niamey, and nearby military bases, also on 29 January, with the defence ministry saying that four military personnel were injured and 20 of the assailants were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Serwat said that while some reports claim ISSP used mortars and RPGs, others suggest that the militants carried out a drone strike. "If a drone was used, this represents the first time ISSP used an explosive-laden drone in Niger," he added. The jihadist group that has used drones the most is the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). Acled says it has carried 69 strikes in neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso, and one across the border in Togo. JNIM is regarded as the most powerful jihadist group in West Africa [Al-Zallaqa] "JNIM's drone programme has developed rapidly and spread across interconnected networks in Mali and Burkina," Acled's senior West Africa analyst Heni Nsaibia said. Advertisement Advertisement Military Africa, an online defence industry source, reported that last February, JNIM had also used what are known as first-person view (FPV) drones - when the pilot has a live feed from the drone - to drop improvised explosive devices, made from plastic bottles, onto military positions in Burkina Faso's Djibo town. "This marked a significant escalation, as FPV drones - small, agile, and often used in Ukraine - allow precise targeting," Military Africa reported. Samuel said the jihadist groups were influenced and trained by foreign fighters to constantly adopt new methods - from making roadside bombs and suicide belts, they had now learned to turn "off-the-shelf" drones into weapons. Drone attacks could reduce casualties among jihadists, while achieving greater "effectiveness" in hitting targets, Samuel said. [BBC] Acled analyst Nsaibia told the BBC that while the majority of JNIM's drone attacks in Mali and Burkina Faso had targeted the military and allied militias, some had also hit civilians, including markets in communities perceived as being aligned with government forces. Advertisement Advertisement As for Iswap, it was known to have carried out only one drone attack that hit civilians - in June 2025, when two pastoralists were killed and one injured in northern Cameroon, Nsaibia said. In a report last year, a researcher at the South Africa-based Institute for Security Studies, Taiwo Adebayo, wrote that to combat the threat, West African armies needed to carry out "preemptive strikes" to destroy drone assembly and launch sites, and acquire more counter-drone technology, including jamming devices and air defence systems. Otherwise, he warned, the jihadists could enhance their drone warfare capabilities and carry out "high-impact assaults" that could worsen instability in West Africa. You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) says a suspect is in custody after a long police pursuit through multiple metro cities. Terrance Gore, former Kansas City Royal, dies at 34 According to the Grain Valley Police Department (GVPD), shortly after 4 p.m., a crash occurred near Route AA and Buckner Tarsney Road. One officers vehicle was hit in the crash, and they were taken to the hospital in stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Later Saturday evening, GVPD shared that a suspect was arrested after the initial crash near I-70 and Lees Summit Road. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is now handling the investigation. According to MSHP, the suspect drove away from the scene after crashing into and injuring the officer and was pursued by police, including a helicopter with the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD). The suspect led police through Jackson County, crashing into numerous vehicles, including several police vehicles. Raytown vs. Raytown South basketball game canceled after fight breaks out The suspect then crashed near I-70 and Lees Summit Road, where they were taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement MSHP says that KCPD will handle the investigation related to the vehicle theft. GVPD also said that the injured officer is doing well. This is a developing story; FOX4 will provide updates as theyre made available. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A police department has issued a warning after spotting a coyote in Northern Kentucky. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Bellevue Police Department wrote and posted photos in a social media post that showed a coyote along the icy Ohio River. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement They said a sergeant spotted it napping on the ice. If you have small pets on your boat, or in your ice fishing shack, be sure to keep an eye on them, the department said in the post. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CAIRO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least seven people were killed and six others injured Monday when a lorry collided with a microbus carrying workers on the Matrouh-Sallum highway in northwestern Egypt, authorities said. The crash occurred early in the morning when the lorry hit the microbus from behind, sparking a fire, according to a statement posted on Matrouh province's official Facebook page. Six ambulances rushed the wounded to the nearest public hospital. Preliminary investigations indicate that the lorry's high speed and poor road lighting were major factors in the accident. Road accidents claim thousands of lives in Egypt each year, primarily due to speeding, traffic violations, and poor road conditions. In recent years, the government has been upgrading the country's road network to improve traffic flow and enhance safety. A city in the Philippines has enacted a ban that will change the landscape of shopping for residents in an effort to cut down on waste and pollution. According to The Inquirer, the city of Masantol in the Pampanga region of the Philippines has banned both the sale and use of single-use plastic bags and Styrofoam containers by all businesses in town. While the law had been on the books since 2018, Mayor Danilo Guinto issued an executive order to strictly enforce the ban on bags and Styrofoam containers. Advertisement Advertisement "All commercial establishments are prohibited from using, distributing, selling, or providing single-use carry-out plastic bags, polystyrene foam (Styrofoam/Styropor), or similar materials as packaging or containers for goods, food, produce, or other products at the point of sale," it read. Plastic waste is a massive global problem, and it's particularly challenging in parts of the Philippines. Neither plastic nor Styrofoam breaks down naturally, and both can pollute and clutter waterways and soil for centuries. While they don't degrade, they break down into tiny particles known as microplastics, which are associated with serious health issues. However, in the Philippines, there is a complicating factor: it's not uncommon to see trash being burned, including plastic waste. Advertisement Advertisement Burning plastic bags and Styrofoam produces toxic fumes that can be fatal, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Capital Poison Center. Masantol isn't the only place banning bags; it's an increasingly common occurrence globally. California, counties in Maryland, and New York State have all banned bags, along with hundreds of other cities and states around the world. The new law imposes a fine of 500 pesos ($8.50) for a first offense, 1,000 pesos ($17.01) for a second, and 2,500 pesos ($42.52), a potential 90-day jail sentence, and loss of business licensing for a year for subsequent offenses. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. Feb. 9Ohio's First Lady Fran DeWine said she's happy many Springfield Haitians were given a reprieve from the federal administration's order to remove their protected status in early February and lauded the immigrants for their impact on the city. At a Wednesday event in Dayton, the first lady referred to the personal connection she and her husband, Gov. Mike DeWine, have with Haiti and its people including their longtime support of a Port Au Prince school named for their daughter, Becky, who was killed in a 1993 car accident, aged 22. "For many, many years, we've worked with a school in Haiti that's named for our daughter, Becky, that we lost, and so we've been down there many, many times," Fran DeWine said. "We actually helped establish the school because we saw the extreme poverty that they had there in Haiti." Advertisement Advertisement She continued: "So we've kind of watched what's going on in Springfield, and we've talked to employers and people and found out, really, the employers love their Haitian workers. They said they work hard, they wanted to work overtime, they never have trouble passing a drug test. They're just stellar workers. "And so, we've been watching that. And we know that they have helped to raise the economy in Springfield. And so we're happy that this, at least for now, that the status has not changed. And we're happy. And, you know, we're just all praying for good things to happen in Springfield for everyone." The Becky DeWine School, situated in a slum known as Cite Soleil in Haiti's capital, has been forced to temporarily close at various points throughout its history as a result of violence, this outlet previously reported. The school was in operation as recently as September 2024. This outlet did not get an immediate response from the governor's office regarding the school's current status. Temporary Protected Status Advertisement Advertisement Many of Springfield's Haitian immigrants legally live and work in the U.S. through a federal program known as Temporary Protected Status. The longstanding program allows foreigners of specific countries (in this case, Haitian nationals) to temporarily live here if the U.S. determines that their home country is too dangerous for its citizens to return. Haiti's TPS designation was set to expire after Feb. 3, as determined by the Trump administration, but a federal judge blocked the expiration date in a ruling that, in part, said the administration did not effectively argue that Haiti is safe enough for its citizens to return to. On Thursday, Gov. DeWine told reporters that, in his estimation, the situation in Haiti "has never been worse." "This is a country (where) there's massive unemployment; gangs are controlling most of the country, there's violence all over the country; it's a dysfunctional government, nothing works very well down there," he said. Advertisement Advertisement The Republican governor added that the U.S. State Department has advised Americans not to travel to Haiti due to the country's state of disarray, and that gangs shoot guns at American planes attempting to land in Port Au Prince. "It's a rough, rough, situation," DeWine said. "None of these (or) very few of these Haitians, if they have to leave, are going to go back to Haiti, they're going to try to find someplace else. They're not going to go back, it's too dangerous." Officials within the Trump administration, who appealed the court's decision, said TPS has been used far beyond its original intent by previous administrations. "Haiti's TPS was granted following an earthquake that took place over 15 years ago, it was never intended to be a de facto amnesty program, yet that's how previous administrations have used it for decades," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin posted to her X account following the judge's ruling. "Temporary means temporary and the final word will not be from an activist judge legislating from the bench." Advertisement Advertisement ------ For more stories like this, sign up for our Ohio Politics newsletter. It's free, curated, and delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday evening. Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below. Loading... A masked U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent knocks on a car window in Minnesota on Jan. 12, 2026. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer) Ohio House Democrats are introducing a series of bills related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement including one that would prohibit ICE officers from wearing face coverings and another that would not allow immigration enforcement to take place in schools or churches. Ohio Republicans have a supermajority in the Statehouse, but Ohio House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati, said these are not partisan issues. Advertisement Advertisement Were talking about basic constitutional rights, he said. These are freedoms that we all enjoy as Americans. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Ohio State Reps. Karen Brownlee, D-Symmes Twp, and Cecil Thomas, D-Cincinnati, are introducing a bill that would not allow federal, state, and local law enforcement from wearing face coverings and require them to clearly display their badge and identification. The goal is simple, face coverings should not be worn as a way to evade public accountability for faulty, improper or illegal policing tactics, Brownlee said. Law enforcement officers withholding their identification makes people feel less safe, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Imagine having an unmarked, unidentifiable SUV pull up next to you, and seconds later, you are surrounded by multiple individuals that are in masks with no badge, no identification telling you that youre about to be detained, Brownlee said. They grab you and throw you into their unmarked vehicles. State Rep. Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, is putting forth a bill that would place limits on state entities collecting and sharing data. When a government collects data on its citizens, that data should only be shared if necessary to administer a government program or service, she said. But across the nation, we can see growing fears about the impact of mishandled citizen data and what impact that mishandling it may have on our communities. There have been reports that federal agents, including ICE, have accessed citizens private data. Advertisement Advertisement That has to stop, and we have an obligation as Ohio lawmakers to demand that it does stop and to protect citizen privacy, Russo said. Her bill would not allow state entities to collect, share or disclose information related to someones citizenship or immigration status, except when required by law. COLUMBUS, Ohio DECEMBER 06: House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, speaks to reporters after the Ohio House session, December 6, 2023, at the Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal) Personal information or data shall not be disclosed without the informed consent of the individual, a warrant, a court order or a subpoena that is signed by an Ohio or federal judge or unless otherwise required by federal and state law, Russo said. State Reps. Christine Cockley, D-Columbus, and Tristan Rader, D-Lakewood, are introducing a bill that would not allow agencies, officials, and data brokers from selling or distributing sensitive personal data unless used for a permitted purpose. Advertisement Advertisement ICE has been contracting with data brokers and tech companies to gain access to our personal data, Cockley said. Even interacting with the weather app generates location data, which can then be sold to agencies like ICE for further tracking and monitoring. These companies are turning profit by selling their collected data on Ohioans. The bill defines sensitive data as a persons name, date of birth, social security number, phone number, and immigration status, among other things. State Reps. Ismail Mohamed, D-Columbus, and Eric Synenberg, D-Beachwood, are introducing a bill that would prohibit immigration enforcement in schools, place of worship, hospitals, and courthouses. Every Ohio deserves the right to feel safe in their school and place of worship, Mohamed said. Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration last year rescinded a policy directive that banned ICE from operating in sensitive areas like schools, places of worship, and hospitals. We will not tolerate that fear especially in our most sacred and important locations for community well-being, Mohamed said. State Reps. Mark Sigrist, D-Grove City, and Beryl Brown Piccolantonio, D-Gahanna, plan to introduce a resolution that asserts local law enforcements right to investigate crimes that happen inside Ohio. This will reaffirm that local law enforcement participation in those investigations is beneficial to public trust, government transparency and public safety, Sigrist said. Ohio has a right to investigate offenses that occur in our state. Advertisement Advertisement State Reps. Ashley Bryant Bailey, D-Cincinnati, and Veronica Sims, D-Akron, are introducing a bill that would create minimum standards for Ohios immigration detention centers. This would include providing three hot meals a day, a bed, blankets, weather-appropriate clothing, time to participate in religious activities, and medical and mental health services. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Columbus Field Office, photographed on Jan. 5, 2026. (Photo by Megan Henry, Ohio Capital Journal). Our system is built upon the ideal that we are innocent until proven guilty, Bryant Bailey said. This bill would reaffirm an inmate or detainees right to fair treatment and mitigate the poor conditions within our current facilities. There are six Ohio detention facilities that contract with ICE to hold people who have been detained: Butler County Jail in Hamilton, the Seneca County Jail in Tiffin, the Geauga County Safety Center in Chardon, the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio in Stryker, the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center in Youngstown, and the Mahoning County Justice Center in Youngstown. There were 1,069 people in Butler County Jail as of Wednesday. The general housing capacity for Butler County Jail is 844, even though the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction recommends 756 as the housing capacity, according to a July ODRC inspection report. Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Latyna Humphrey, D-Columbus, is putting forth a resolution that reaffirms a lawmakers right to enter an Ohio immigration detention centers at any time. As elected officials, this is our moral and ethical obligation to ensure that our detention facilities are humane, Humphrey said. State Reps. Erika White, D-Springfield Township, and Anita Somani, D-Dublin, introduced a bill that would require the governors approval before National Guard troops are stationed in Ohio. This bill reaffirms the governors right to decline a presidents request to deploy the National Guard in Ohio under Title 32, for law enforcement purposes, White said. The bills will be introduced in the coming weeks and will be assigned bill numbers. Follow OCJ Reporter Megan Henry on X. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A proposal to disconnect parts of Oregon's tax code from the federal code is heading to the Oregon Senate for a vote after passing out of committee on Feb. 9 along party lines. Senate Bill 1507, unveiled by Sen. Anthony Broadman, D-Bend, and Rep. Nancy Nathanson, D-Eugene, on Feb. 2, would disconnect the state from three provisions in H.R. 1, or President Donald Trump's Big, Beautiful Bill Act. The aim is to claw back some revenue and help close a now-projected nearly $650 million revenue gap. "Democrats are laser-focused on putting more money in the pockets of everyday Oregonians," Broadman said in a statement. "At a time when the cost of living is too high and rising, we need to take urgent action this legislative session to invest in affordability and support local businesses." Sen. Anthony Broadman, D-Bend, center, speaks about a federal response package during a press conference at the Oregon State Capitol on Jan. 14. What will Senate Bill 1507 do? SB1507 has five components: creating or expanding two tax credits for Oregonians and closing what Democrats have characterized as three federal tax "loopholes" that primarily benefit corporations and the wealthy. Advertisement Advertisement The bill disconnects from the new federal deduction for vehicle loan interest and the qualified small business stock exclusion. It partially disconnects from the "bonus depreciation" deduction, which would have allowed businesses to deduct the full cost of machinery and equipment from their taxable income in year one. The bill would not affect bonus depreciation for other categories, such as real estate or research and development. An updated revenue impact from the Legislative Revenue Office, dated Feb. 8, estimates that the vehicle loan interest deduction, qualified small business stock, and bonus depreciation disconnects would recapture $36.4 million, $38.9 million, and $267 million, respectively, in the current two-year state budget. But not all of that revenue would stay in the general fund. SB1507 also calls for expanding the Oregon Earned Income Tax Credit and creating a new credit for businesses that create jobs. The bill would increase Oregon's EITC from 9% to 14% or from 12% to 17% for taxpayers with a dependent. The credit is for people making up to $68,675 a year. In 2023, 11% of full-year filers, or 212,925, received an average EITC refund of $222. Advertisement Advertisement The bill would direct $26.2 million to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit. Another $4.6 million would be directed to the new income tax credit for businesses that create and retain jobs in Oregon. To qualify, the jobs will be required to provide compensation of at least 150% of Oregon minimum wage. The credit would be limited to 10 per taxpayer per year and would equal $1,000 per job created in the year. SB1507 would generate a net $311.6 million in the 2025-2027 budget. Oregon Republicans prepare 'minority report' In support of the bill were advocates, including the think tank Oregon Center for Public Policy, which repeatedly called for Oregon to disconnect from the federal tax code in the months leading up to the session. OCPP called the bill a step in the right direction. Advertisement Advertisement The Child Care for Oregon coalition also wrote in support of the changes, urging lawmakers to invest reclaimed resources in Oregon's Employment-Related Day Care and other services at risk of cuts. Portland Public Schools Superintendent Kimberlee Armstrong also spoke in support of the bill on Feb. 9, saying Portland schools faced a fourth straight year of budget cuts. Lawmakers, she said, had the opportunity to reverse the trajectory. The Oregon Business and Industry Association again spoke in opposition to the bill on Feb. 9. In a letter to lawmakers, their policy director and counsel, Derek Sangston, said the bill would increase administrative burdens for Oregon businesses and ultimately make Oregon's tax system more burdensome and less competitive. Sangston pointed to Oregon's low ranking in polling for business friendliness and cost for doing business. Advertisement Advertisement "Based on the significant job losses over the last year and higher than average unemployment, by no metric is Oregon prospering," Sangston wrote. Anthony Smith, state director for the National Federation of Independent Business in Oregon, also opposed the bill and quoted an Oregonian editorial published on Feb. 8 that criticized it. Broadman, during a Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue work session, said the state was in an affordability crisis due to "havoc" at the federal level. He again emphasized that the bill did not impact no tax on overtime or tips and selectively disconnected the state tax code from the "bonus depreciation" deduction. He said he was "naive" and believed the proposal would be bipartisan. Advertisement Advertisement "Maybe I was hoping for too much," Broadman said. Sen. Mike McLane, R-Powell Butte, said he opposed the bill for philosophical reasons and practical reasons. He added that "there is a reckoning" in which the state must adjust its spending to "the new reality." If Gov. Tina Kotek signed the bill, it would directly contradict what she said when she announced her new prosperity roadmap, he said. "So we're going to see if the Governor's word is true. Whether her walk is going to match her talk and whether she signs this," McLane said. He gave notice of a minority report, indicating Republicans will attempt to replace the bill with a version of their own on the Senate floor. It is a practice Republicans have used to delay legislation, though the minority reports are routinely rejected on the floor. They will have three days to submit the minority report. Advertisement Advertisement Dianne Lugo covers the Oregon Legislature and equity issues. Reach her at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com or on X @DianneLugoor Bluesky @diannelugo.bsky.social. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon Senate to vote on partial disconnect from federal tax code A South Korean official who suggested the country "import young women" from "Vietnam or Sri Lanka" to boost its birth-rate has been expelled from his party. Kim Hee-soo, the head of the southern Jindo County, said the woman could be married off to "young men in rural areas" during a town hall last week. The suggestion comes as South Korea continues to grapple with the lowest birth-rates in the world, which could see the country's 50 million-strong population drop by half in 60 years. Advertisement Advertisement But Kim's statement, which was televised, did not go down well - triggering a diplomatic protest from Vietnam, days of public anger and his expulsion from the ruling Democratic Party. Attempts by Kim to defuse the outrage with an apology a day after the town hall appear to have failed. The town hall had been called to discuss a potential merger between the province where Jindo County is located and a nearby city - something regions with shrinking populations are looking at for administrative reasons. Kim said his comment had been intended to highlight population issues in rural regions but admitted the language he had used was "inappropriate", local media reported. Advertisement Advertisement South Jeolla Province also issued a formal apology for Kim's "inappropriate remarks", which it said "has caused deep pain to Vietnamese people and to women", local media reported. The Vietnamese Embassy in Seoul had condemned Kim's remarks, saying in a statement on Facebook that his words were "not simply a matter of expression but a matter of values and attitudes towards migrant women and minority groups". Sri Lanka authorities have not publicly addressed the controversy. The Democratic Party's Supreme Council had voted unanimously to expel Kim, a party spokesperson told reporters on Monday. Meanwhile, activists for women and migrant rights are reportedly planning to hold a rally in front of Jindo County Office on Tuesday over Kim's comments. The owner of a massage parlor and sauna in west Georgia is facing several charges after a man claimed he was attacked there. Officers in West Point were called to Aroma Sauna on Friday afternoon, where a man said he went for a massage related to an injury. When he went into the room, a woman told him the massage would be $80 and $200 for services. Thats when he says he tried to leave. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] While leaving, two young women and an older woman, the owner, tried to stop him from leaving while trying to take his phone and wallet. He told police he was able to record some of the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Police say that during interviews with the two younger women, they referred to the owner, Moo Sun Lee, as Mama and described her as their pimp. TRENDING STORIES: They say Lee would receive the $80 from the massage and $100 from the other services, while they were allowed to keep $100. Lee was later arrested and charged with trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, keeping a place of prostitution, pimping, simple battery, obstruction and giving massages in place used for prostitution. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Study co-author Mari Kleist documents an Early Paleo-Inuit tent ring on Isbjrne Island, Kitsissut. | Credit: M. Walls, M. Kleist & P. Knudsen; Antiquity Publications Ltd. Paleo-Inuit people reached remote islands in the High Arctic off the northwest coast of Greenland nearly 4,500 years ago, according to a new study that documents evidence of prehistoric dwellings there. These early Arctic people, who had fine-tuned advanced watercraft technology and seafaring skills , repeatedly made the treacherous open-water journey to the islands to access vital maritime resources. Advertisement Advertisement The island cluster of Kitsissut (also known as the Carey Islands) is the westernmost point of Greenland. Consisting of six small islands, Kitsissut is located at the heart of a rich marine environment called a polynya, which is a semipermanent area of open water in the middle of sea ice. Contemporary Inuit identified Kitsissut as an important place for hunting seabirds and accessing eggs, which prompted a team of archaeologists to investigate the islands for traces of prehistoric activity. In a study published Monday (Feb. 9) in the journal Antiquity , researchers detailed the results of their archaeological survey of three of the islands. They found nearly 300 archaeological features in their survey, with the largest concentration being 15 Paleo-Inuit dwellings at the tip of Isbjrne Island. The dwellings suggested that people made the difficult journey from Greenland's mainland to Kitsissut numerous times. The dwellings were identified by a ring of stones indicating the past presence of a tent with a hearth at the center. Based on an animal bone discovered in one of the tent rings, the archaeologists dated the occupation to around 4,000 to 4,475 years ago. "In a regional perspective, it is a lot of tent rings in one place, indeed one of the largest concentrations," study lead author Matthew Walls , an archaeologist at the University of Calgary in Canada, told Live Science in an email. This suggests that Kitsissut and the polynya was "a place of return," Walls said. "It wasn't just a one-off visit by a family blown off course, for example." A view of the crossing between Kitsissut and the shores of northwest Greenland. The minimum distance to land (Nuuliit) is 33 miles (53 kilometers). | Credit: M. Walls, M. Kleist & P. Knudsen; Antiquity Publications Ltd It is unclear exactly how the Paleo-Inuit people arrived at Kitsissut, but the minimum journey from the mainland to the dwellings on Isbjrne Island is 33 miles (53 kilometers), the researchers wrote in the study. The route through the open sea is marked by erratic crosswinds, dense fog and powerful mixing currents an extraordinarily risky journey that would have taken around 12 hours to complete in a wood-framed, skin-covered watercraft typical of Paleo-Inuit peoples. Advertisement Advertisement "They are almost certainly visiting during the warm season, which doesn't last very long," Walls said. "The travel conditions also make it most likely that they are doing this in the brief summer." Paleo-Inuit people probably headed to Kitsissut to hunt and gather eggs from the thick-billed murre (Uria lomvia), a polar seabird that nests in the thousands in the summer. The dwelling sites the archaeologists found are located directly below their nesting cliffs, Walls said, and there are numerous murre bones around the tent rings. An illustration of several Early Paleo-Inuit tent rings that have been found on Isbjrne Island. | Credit: M. Walls, M. Kleist & P. Knudsen; Antiquity Publications Ltd RELATED STORIES Thule snow goggles: 1,000-year-old Arctic eyewear carved from walrus tusks Advertisement Advertisement Bering Land Bridge emerged much later than we thought it did, new study finds 9 of the most 'genetically isolated' human populations in the world "The number of rings does give the sense that it is a whole community making the crossing, rather than a small hunting party," Walls said, but "that is something that we could perhaps prove with further excavation, giving us a better snapshot of community life." The Paleo-Inuit people's ability to navigate frigid expanses of open water in kayak-like vessels to reach Kitsissut shows their strong commitment to a maritime lifestyle, the researchers wrote, but it also demonstrates their advanced skills in navigation and watercraft technology. Advertisement Advertisement "Archaeologists have tended to think about the area as a crossroads, or primarily a route of movement between Canada and Greenland," Walls said. But Kitsissut and the polynya are "better framed as a place of innovation." Archaeology Fragments Quiz: Can you work out what these mysterious artifacts are? A new report from the LA Times found Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass allegedly watered down the after-action report on the deadly and destructive Palisades Fire that hit the city in January 2025. Community leaders in the Palisades told Straight Arrow News they're frustrated by the report but not surprised. Bass accusations The Times report cites two unnamed sources with knowledge of Bass' office. They claimed Bass helped alter the after-action report to downplay the city's failures and avoid potential liability. The Palisades Fire killed 12 people and burned more than 6,000 structures. Advertisement Advertisement That report is meant to fully analyze how that fire started, assess the effectiveness of the response, identify any operational gaps and outline lessons for future disaster response. The Times' sources said Bass received an early copy of the report and told then-interim fire chief Ronnie Villanueva that details in the first draft could expose the city to legal liabilities for certain failures. The source said Bass made sure certain actions from the fire department were either softened or removed from the report altogether. One issue, the newspaper was told, stands out. The sources claimed Bass wanted a portion of the report noting that the city didn't fully staff and pre-deploy all available crews and engines ahead of the fire conditions altered. The Times found earlier versions of the report that used a more critical tone on that decision. Advertisement Advertisement Bass has denied those allegations. Her office said there would have been no reason for the mayor to alter those criticisms when she had made similar comments herself. Reaction "I was pretty pissed off," Peggy Holter, who lost her home in the fire and is now a board member of her homeowner's association, told Straight Arrow News after hearing the accusations against Bass. "If they are really held responsible, it's going to be huge city money," Holter added. Others who lost their home in the fire felt the same. "It's irritating every time," Mark Smith, who lost his home and is now a representative for the rebuilding group Team Palisades, told SAN. Advertisement Advertisement "In short, politicians lie," Smith added. "We get very, very good information. Particularly as most of us are involved in wildfire litigation actions, and so we've seen all the evidence that's been pulled together, and we know what the sources of the information are. So, we really know what the truth is." There are numerous lawsuits over the fire, including a large one filed by survivors. That suit names the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power as the defendant. "The fire department is the one department that's not a defendant in the lawsuit, so it makes a lot of sense for them to shift the blame over onto the fire department," Smith said. Holter agreed that Bass was shifting blame. Advertisement Advertisement "She's a politician," she said. Despite both Holter and Smith being frustrated by what they learned from the LA Times report, neither seemed shocked by it. "We've been seeing this all along," Smith said. "She was taking it for being in Ghana, which I don't think makes any difference whether she was in Ghana or not, if she was paying attention to what was going on in LA," Holter added. Bass was in Ghana at the time the fires began, attending the inauguration of that country's new president. Moving forward, neither person SAN spoke with said they felt confident in Bass' leadership of the city. "I don't feel confident in her ability even if there's not another disaster, but there's always disasters here anyway," Holter said. Advertisement Advertisement "I think we would have been much better prepared had someone with more of a business background like Rick Caruso had been the mayor," Smith added. Caruso ran against Bass in the last election. His office declined a request for comment. Recovery More than a year after the fire, the rebuilding of the Palisades has moved steadily along, but slowly. Despite the slower pace and the new frustrations of the LA Times report, there's still a lot of confidence in the ongoing rebuild. "I think it's going really well," Holter said. "It takes a long time to start. To interview lots of companies, and there were a bunch of them, and then to find someone who's responsible and then to get going." Advertisement Advertisement Smith echoed those sentiments. "Really well, in the last two weeks," he said. "We threw out our board, replaced it with our slate of directors, and we've got the build started. We just recently won and are getting our plan check and permit fees waived by the city. So, it's been a good week." And while frustration remains with the mayor, there are other local politicians attempting to make a difference. "Traci Park, our councilwoman, has been terrific," Holter said. "The city council had passed regulations relieving single-family dwellings of the need to pay for rebuild permits. And we went down there and talked to her and talked to the city council. And so, we've just had multifamily dwellings and condos [included]. In other words, everybody should be included, not having to pay huge fees." Advertisement Advertisement The post Palisades community reacts to claims LA Mayor Bass altered fire report appeared first on Straight Arrow News. Related Links The Brief Time Magazine ranked the top universities all around the world in a recent study. Schools from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware were all featured. Several local schools appeared in the Top 100. PENNSYLVANIA - If you're looking to continue your education at one of the best schools in the world, you won't have to travel very far you may even be able to stay in-state. What we know Time Magazine recently released its list of the "World's Top Universities of 2026," featuring schools from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Pennsylvania The University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University and Pennsylvania State University were all named in the Top 100 schools across the world. At least three other Pennsylvania schools, two in Philadelphia, appeared in the Top 500. Advertisement Advertisement No. 10 University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) No. 38 Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh) No. 81 Pennsylvania State University (University Park) No. 172 Drexel University (Philadelphia) No. 181 University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh) No. 322 Temple University (Philadelphia) New Jersey Princeton University was the only New Jersey school to make the Top 100, claiming the 11th spot, while Rutgers University came in at No. 275. Delaware Only one Delaware school appeared on the list, with the University of Delaware landing in 145th place. Dig deeper Time determined the "World's Top Universities of 2026" by analyzing eligible universities on three key pillars: academic capacity and performance, innovation and economic impact, and global engagement. Advertisement Advertisement "The ranking places emphasis on the extent to which students achieve extraordinary success, for instance in patenting new inventions or rising to leadership roles in business," Times stated. "These lists help us understand where students are likely to achieve the greatest success and contribute most to society as the world order shifts." The Source Information from this article was sourced from Time Magazine. Thai drivers from ride-hailing apps gathered together in a province outside the capital Bangkok after a Myanmar migrant worker reportedly attacked one of their colleagues in January 2026, but pictures circulating on social media do not depict a protest there seeking the expulsion of Myanmar migrants. The photos show an assembly questioning the results of a local election in northeastern Thailand. "Some Thai citizens protested at Samut Prakan Market, a Burmese-majority area, demanding that Burmese be expelled and stricter checks be taken", reads part of the Burmese-language Facebook post uploaded on January 31, 2026. The post includes a compilation of four images of people gathered beside a road holding blue banners. Advertisement Advertisement Burmese-language text superimposed on the collage reads: "Some Thais protested at Samut Prakan Market to demand expulsion of Myanmar migrants". Screenshot of the false Facebook post taken on February 4, 2026, with a red X added by AFP Over 100 people gathered outside a restaurant in Samut Prakan -- located about 30 kilometres (19 miles) south of the capital Bangkok -- on January 12 to show support for a Thai delivery rider who had allegedly been assaulted by a Burmese worker earlier in the day, according to Thai outlet Thairath (archived link). Other outlets reported that Thai police launched an operation to crack down on illegal Burmese migrant workers shortly after a suspected Myanmar national shot and seriously wounded an officer on January 21 (archived here and here). The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said the influx of Myanmar nationals into Thailand has been accompanied by a surge in xenophobic rhetoric and harmful narratives targeting them (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement The pictures have spread elsewhere on Facebook along with the claim, while another version claiming they showed Burmese migrants protesting against inequality has circulated on TikTok. But the circulating photos show a protest against a tiebreaker decision in a local election in northeastern Thailand. Thai e lection protest A reverse image search on Google led to a Facebook video on January 14, 2026 showing the same scene, with a caption that reads: "Everyone has the right to raise demands" (archived link). The clip shows a group of people holding signs that read: "We oppose the drawing of lots and call for a recount. We are demanding justice for candidate No. 3, who won the first round of vote counting." Advertisement Advertisement A woman can also be heard saying: "We object. We will not accept this." Pictures in the false post match the video from its first frame and at the 0:10 and 0:17 timestamps. Screenshot comparisons of the false Facebook post (L) and the original video Thai media outlets reported on the assembly on the day in video reports showing the same elements seen in the video uploaded by Rossarin (archived here and here). More than 100 residents in Serpler subdistrict, Kumphawapi district, Udon Thani province, gathered to protest against the decision to draw lots in the local Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) chief election on January 13, after the vote ended in a tie at 2,801 votes each (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement The SAO chief is the one who governs rural subdistricts (archived links). It plays an independent role from the central district office managing local public services, essential infrastructures, community development and building permits. Under Thai election law, the lottery system can be used to determine the winner to break a tie between two or more candidates (archived link). Rossarin Netprom, the user who uploaded the video and took part in the protest, said the protest clip is unrelated to Myanmar. "No, I can confirm the clip was not about Myanmar. The clip shows people protesting against the drawing of lots to decide the SAO chief election by drawing lots," she told AFP by phone on February 4, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement "I gained a large number of new followers and received Burmese-language comments over the past two weeks, which made me realise my videos had been taken and shared with false claims." She posted a similar video showing the same scene, with a caption that reads: "Oppose the drawing of lots and call for a recount of the votes", along with the hashtags #election and #SerplerSAO (archived link). The building seen in the reports also matches the geotagged image of the Ser Pler local government office, which is over 490 kilometres (304 miles) away from Samut Prakan Market (archived here and here). Screenshot comparison of the Ser Pler local government office as seen in one of the media reports (L) and on Google Maps There are no official reports on recent protests demanding the expulsion of Myanmar migrant workers from Thailand. AFP previously debunked misinformation related to Burmese migrant workers in Thailand here and here. SYDNEY, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The growing number of storms and floods linked to climate change is driving up the risk of leptospirosis, a serious human infection, new research warned Monday. The research, led by Australia's University of New England (UNE), recommended concerted testing of the public for the zoonotic infection leptospirosis, greater vigilance in regions well beyond the tropical north, and further urgent research, said a UNE statement. No human vaccine exists for leptospirosis, a bacterial disease surging globally with floods and warm weather, it said, adding that outbreaks are intensifying worldwide, with evolving Leptospira subtypes. Agricultural workers, vets, carcass handlers, and freshwater recreationists face the highest risk, warned the authors of the study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health. Lead author Associate Prof. Jacqueline Epps, a rural general practitioner from UNE's School of Rural Medicine, noted outbreaks are emerging across Australia, linked to increased rainfall, storms, flooding and warmer temperatures, and were previously rare outside the state of Queensland's high-case zones. "The bacteria found in the feces and urine of carriers survive longer in the soil and mud in more humid and warm conditions. Floods are thought to wash the infectious pathogens long distances and to contaminate water sources," Epps said. Leptospirosis symptoms resemble flu or COVID-19, leaving many cases undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, the researchers said, adding that accurate early diagnosis prevents symptom worsening, which can lead to intensive care for organ failure, meningitis, or death in 10 percent of severe cases. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has been working the Nancy Guthrie disappearance case for the past eight days. However, on Sunday, Feb. 8, the department confirmed it had found human remains at a home not too far from Guthrie's. The department has said that the remains are completely unrelated to the Guthrie case. "There is nothing criminal at this time," PCSD said, according to local Tucson, Arizona, news station, KVOA. The remains were found near Irvington and San Joaquin on Saturday, Feb. 7. Further details about the remains haven't been made clear by the department at this time. KVOA reports that the cold case unit responded to the scene on Saturday night. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the Guthrie is ongoing and PCSD is working alongside the FBI in hopes of locating Guthrie and apprehending the person or persons who are behind her disappearance. Authorities believe that Guthrie was abducted from her home in the Catalina Foothills, just north of Tucson, Arizona, on Sunday, Feb. 1. Also on Feb. 8, the Pima County Sheriffs Department sent out an update about the case on X. "The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing. Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. No scheduled press briefings. If any significant developments occur in the case, a press conference will be called, reads the post. READ NEXT: Savannah Guthries Missing Mom Case Takes Another Turn as Investigators Search Septic Tank This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Graham Police Department says Officers have arrested a suspect in a restaurant robbery and shooting. The shooting happened at the Cook Out restaurant at 311 S. Main St. on Dec. 24, 2025. The robbery follows a pattern of similar robberies in both High Point and Winston-Salem, Oregon. The victim who was shot during the robbery was treated for gunshot wounds at a local hospital. The 31-year-old suspect was arrested without incident. Advertisement Advertisement He was charged with robbery and assault. Police say he could face additional charges related to two robberies in High Point and Winston-Salem, Oregon. He is being held in the Guilford County Detention Center without bond. Anyone with additional information on these robberies is asked to call Graham Police Department detectives at 336-570-6711. They can also contact Burlington-Graham Communications at 336-229-3500 or Alamance County Crime Stoppers at 336-229-7100, or submit tips through the P3Tips mobile app. LAFAYETTE, IN A gun purchase in a Taco Bell parking lot in the 2100 block of South 26th Street went south about 7 p.m. Sunday when the gun's would-be sellers pulled a sidearm and took the would-be buyer's money, according to Lafayette police. A 21-year-old from Clinton, Indiana, told police he met the two men in the fast-food restaurant's parking lot to buy a gun. Police tracked down two suspects, one of whom had a pistol converted to fire fully automatically, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Arrested were Keiyon Weaver, 20, of the 1300 block of South Street in Lafayette, and Tyquan Ladale Overall, 19, of the 2400 block of Temple Court in West Lafayette. Based on the book-in card, it appears police suspect Weaver was the man with the gun. He was jailed on suspicion of robbery, theft, intimidation, pointing a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Police jailed Overall on suspicion of robbery and theft. Both men remained incarcerated Monday afternoon at the Tippecanoe County Jail without bond, according to jail records. Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2. This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Police say man from Clinton robbed in Taco Bell parking lot in Lafayette Manor Township police officers rescued a dog from the frozen Allegheny River Sunday afternoon. The rescue took place after authorities received a complaint regarding an animal on the ice near Water Street in Manorville Borough. At approximately 4:09 p.m. on Feb. 8, officers successfully coaxed the dog off the river and later located its owners. Following the incident, the Manor Township Police Department issued a reminder to the community regarding Pennsylvanias Libres Law and the legal requirements for tethering and outdoor animal care. Under Libres Law, it is illegal to leave a dog tethered outdoors for more than 30 minutes when temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The law is designed to protect animals from extreme weather conditions that can lead to health risks. Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of the temperature, the statute prohibits leaving tethered dogs outside for more than 9 hours within any 24-hour period. This regulation applies to all dogs kept outdoors in Pennsylvania. Dogs kept outdoors must have access to dry, insulated and elevated shelter. The law requires these structures to have solid walls and a roof that protects the animal from wind, rain, snow and extreme temperatures. Owners are also required to provide continuous access to clean, potable water. During cold weather conditions, the water must remain unfrozen to ensure the animal stays hydrated. Violations of Libres Law can lead to various legal consequences including fines, criminal charges and imprisonment. Penalties for neglect increase significantly if the lack of care causes serious injury or death to the animal. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Thames Valley Police said it is assessing claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein. Emails released by the US Department of Justice last month appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then special adviser, Amir Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and talks. Advertisement Advertisement Andrew then appeared to loop Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on Christmas Eve of 2010. A photograph appearing to show Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor crouched over an unidentified woman which has been released in the latest disclosure of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein (US Department of Justice) A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed they were assessing fresh allegations after Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations. Mr Smith said in a post on social media platform X: I have now reported Andrew to the [Thames Valley Police] for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets in relation to these specific allegations. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson. Andrews relationship with Epstein dates back to the 1990s (PA) Thames Valley Police said: We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures. Advertisement Advertisement It comes after the force last week said it was assessing allegations that a woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew in 2010. Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing over his links to the disgraced financier but has not directly responded to the latest allegations. This will be the latest blow for the former prince after the tranche of 3 million files revealed a photo of him leaning over the body of an unidentified woman. The images, undated with no caption, appeared to show the former duke touching the womans abdomen. Elsewhere in the document dump, screenshots and scans appear to show Andrew exchanged emails with Epstein about a beautiful Russian woman, even inviting him to Buckingham Palace in an August 2010 exchange. Advertisement Advertisement In response, the former prince appears to ask Epstein if it is good to be free months after his release from prison for procuring a girl under the age of 18 for prostitution. William and Kate supported the Kings decision to strip Andrew of his titles (PA) That same month, Andrew could be seen in a separate email apparently telling Epstein: Wish I was still a pet in your family. The former duke paid millions of pounds in 2022 to his main accuser, the late Virginia Giuffre a woman he claims never to have met. Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge last week and moved onto the Kings private Sandringham Estate after notice was served to surrender his lease last year. Buckingham Palace also announced he would stop using his titles and honours, including the Duke of York. Advertisement Advertisement His brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, said it was important to remember the victims in the first words spoken by a royal since the latest tranche of documents came out. The Duke of Edinburgh affirmed it was important to remember the victims (PA) Kensington Palace issued a statement on behalf of William and Kate, which affirmed they were concerned about new revelations from the Epstein files. I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations, a spokesperson said. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. When asked how he was coping by a CNN journalist during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Prince Edward said: Well, with the best will in the world, Im not sure this is the audience that is the least bit interested in that. They all came here to listen to education, solving the future, but no, I think its all really important, always, to remember the victims and who are the victims in all this. A man is facing charges after police connected him to two decades-old sex crimes. Now, investigators are asking any other possible victims to come forward. According to the Montgomery County Department of Police, Carl Rice Jr., of Mitchells, Virginia, is charged with two counts of first-degree rape and kidnapping, two counts of first-degree sex offense, three counts of first-degree assault, and two counts of second-degree assault. The charges stem from two separate crimes, according to the detectives with the cold case unit. Advertisement Advertisement The first crime happened on June 24, 1988. Police say a woman was leaving the Friendship Heights Metro Station when a strange man, around 18 or 19 years old, approached her. Investigators say the man forced the woman across the street and sexually assaulted her. The second attack was reported less than two years later. On September 19, 1990, police learned a man named "Kevin" had offered her a ride home. Detectives say the woman became uncomfortable and tried to get out of the car, but the man restrained her and refused to let her go. "Kevin" then drove to an area in Bethesda, where police say he sexually assaulted the woman. More than 30 years after the attacks, police charged Rice on Dec. 9, 2025, after detectives received a CODIS DNA match connected to evidence recovered from the 1988 assault. Maryland has no statute of limitations for felony sexual offenses. Rice was charged on Dec. 9, 2025. He is currently serving a prison sentence in Virginia and has been arrested previously in separate jurisdictions on charges related to rape and sexual assault. Advertisement Advertisement Because both crimes occurred near the border of the District of Columbia, detectives worked in partnership with the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department Cold Case Sex Assault Unit during the investigation. Detectives believe there are more victims out there. Anyone with information or who believes they may have been victimized by Carl Rice Jr. is urged to contact the Montgomery County Department of Police Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070 or Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS(8477). HONOLULU, Hawaii - Over 10 inches of rain fell in just 24 hours this weekend across parts of Hawaii as the state is drenched by a sprawling storm system. State offices and public schools were closed Monday after Governor Josh Green issued an emergency proclamation over the weekend to free up emergency resources in the event of widespread flooding and power outages. Maui County shared images of localized flooding and debris slides on Sunday and shelters were set up across the islands in case conditions worsened. A Flood Watch is in effect through Monday and wind gusts of up to 60 mph. Advertisement Advertisement According to the FOX Forecast Center, a cold front has stalled over the Aloha State after first arriving Saturday. Here's What To Do If You Encounter A Flooded Road Strong trade winds are causing storms to repeatedly form and dump heavy rain, particularly along the northern slopes of the Big Island. Laupahoehoe, some 20 miles northeast of Hilo, has already recorded more than 25 inches of rain. Heavy rain remains the greatest concern through Monday, especially across those same windward mountain slopes. Wind and rain are expected to subside by Tuesday as the system drifts west. In addition to the gusty winds and flash flooding, heavy snow is expected at high altitudes on the Big Island atop Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, as temperatures will be cold enough to support it. Advertisement Advertisement See It: Hawaii's Mauna Kea Summit Receives First Snow Of Season A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for those summits with snow and blowing snow expected above 11,000 feet through Monday. Snow coated the roads on Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano on Hawaii's Big Island Monday, as a storm known as a Kona Low dumped inches of snow across higher elevations. While snow may seem rare in Hawaii, the Big Island volcanoes are tall enough to frequently drop below freezing during the winter. Timelapse Shows Snow Across Hawaii's Mauna Loa Volcano Stay with FOX Weather for the latest weather updates in Hawaii. Original article source: Hawaii soaked by sprawling storm as government monitors growing flood threat Herzog was invited to visit the country after the tragedy by the Governor-General, the Prime Minister of Australia, and the Jewish community following the attack in December 2025. President Isaac Herzog landed in Australia on Sunday along with his wife for his first visit to the country since the Hanukkah Bondi Beach massacre, where 15 people were killed. Herzog was invited to visit the country after the tragedy by the Governor-General, the Prime Minister of Australia, and the Jewish community following the attack in December 2025. Advertisement Advertisement According to a schedule released by his office, Herzog will "visit Jewish communities across Australia to express solidarity and offer strength to the community in the aftermath of the attack." He also has scheduled meetings with senior Australian leaders, including the Governor-General and the Prime Minister, as well as leaders from across the political spectrum. "President Herzog will also conduct interviews with the media during the visit," his office said in a statement. A mourner lights candles as people gather around floral tributes outside Bondi Pavilion in Sydney on December 17, 2025, to honour victims of the Bondi Beach shooting that targeted a Hanukkah celebration. (credit: DAVID GRAY / AFP via Getty Images) An unusual sight in Australia Australians lined the streets and stood outside their homes as Herzog's motorcade passed through Sydney, some taking pictures as the first signs of protest appeared. Advertisement Advertisement Herzog, who is on his way to the scene of the Bondi Beach massacre, is being escorted by his security personnel and the Australian Police. "We're hoping we won't have to use any powers, because we've been liaising very closely with the protest organizers," New South Wales Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna told Nine News on Monday. "Overall, it is all of the community that we want to keep safe ... we'll be there in significant numbers just to make sure that the community is safe." About 3,000 police personnel will be deployed across Sydney, Australia's largest city. Teenager charged with death threats against Herzog before visit On Thursday, an Australian teenager was charged with allegedly making online death threats against Herzog ahead of his visit. Advertisement Advertisement According to the Australian Police report, the 19-year-old man made the threats on a social media platform last month "towards a foreign head of state and internationally protected person." The offence could carry a maximum of 10 years of prison, while he was refused police bail ahead of his court appearance. Reuters contributed to this report. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced an extra state holiday for 2026 Presidents Day. Come July 4, the nation will celebrate 250 years since the United States Declaration of Independence. Though Presidents Day has been recognized as a federal holiday since the 1800s, Florida's state employees will also get a chance to celebrate this year. Formerly Washington's Birthday, the holiday is observed every February on the third Monday of the month and honors presidents George Washington, who was born Feb. 22, and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is Feb. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know about Presidents Day in Florida and what's open, closed Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, on the Treasure Coast. When is Presidents Day 2026? Presidents Day is always the third Monday in February. This year, it falls on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026. Is Presidents Day a federal holiday? Yes. Presidents Day, formerly Washington's Birthday, has been a holiday for federal workers since the 1800s. After George Washington died in December of 1799, Americans began celebrating his birthday as an unofficial holiday. By 1879, President Rutherford B. Hayes signed the observation of Washington's Birthday into law due to its popularity. Implemented in 1880, the holiday initially only applied to District federal workers, according to the U.S. National Archives. It wasn't until 1885 that it was extended to federal workers in the thirty-eight states. Presidents Day 2026 becomes Florida holiday in honor of America's 250 Gov. Ron DeSantis arrives at the Heritage Center, Jan. 30, 2026, in Vero Beach as the city celebrates Americas 250th Anniversary. Vero Beach officials are set to gather at the center that was built in 1935 and served as the Servicemens Center during World War II; acting as a gathering space for service organizations to dance and listen to music. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the extra state holiday at a news conference in Vero Beach on Jan. 30 while discussing state plans for America 250, a celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. Advertisement Advertisement "...This year for America's 250, we'll recognize Washington's birthday, not just federally, but as a state holiday," DeSantis said. "So our state offices will be closed, our state employees will be able to have the day off, which I know they're not going to complain about." Although Florida law lists "Washingtons Birthday, the third Monday in February" among "legal holidays, which are also public holidays," Presidents Day is not a recognized state holiday, with the exception for 2026, as announced by DeSantis. Is there school on Presidents Day on the Treasure Coast, Florida? Schools will be closed on Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, in Martin, Indian River and St. Lucie counties. All but four of Florida's 67 counties will have Presidents Day off in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Columbia: School in session Feb. 16. Students off Friday, Feb. 13, for professional development day. Highlands: School in session Feb.16. No school Friday, Feb. 13 for teacher work day. Osceola: School in session Feb. 16. Kids out for Rodeo Day Friday, Feb. 20. Palm Beach: School in session Feb. 16. Are banks, grocery stores closed on Presidents Day? Banks will be closed Feb. 16 for Presidents Day. Banks generally close on the same days as the Federal Reserve, which follows the federal holiday schedule. As for grocery stores, most retailers will remain open for the holiday, operating at regular hours. Are post offices closed on Presidents Day? All U.S. Postal Service locations will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents Day. Regular mail delivery and retail services resume Tuesday, Feb. 17. Advertisement Advertisement UPS pickup and delivery services are available on Presidents Day, while FedEx offers "modified service." Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY Network - Florida This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Florida Presidents Day is state holiday in 2026. Will schools be open? Britain's Prince William met Saudi Arabia's de facto leader Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday, kicking off a visit aimed at deepening economic cooperation but overshadowed by his disgraced uncle Andrew's links to Jeffrey Epstein. The official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) released images of Prince Mohammed giving the heir to the British throne a private tour of the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site at Diriyah, the first capital of the Saudi state, before a meeting between the two royals. It is William's first official trip to Saudi Arabia, and ahead of his arrival in Riyadh, Kensington Palace broke years of silence over Andrew's links to the late US convicted sex offender by saying William and his wife Catherine were "deeply concerned by the continuing revelations". Advertisement Advertisement The short statement, which did not directly reference the ex-prince Andrew, came as the monarchy faces renewed pressure over allegations stemming from the tarnished royal's ties to Epstein. In the latest damaging allegations from the Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice, it emerged that Andrew may have passed potentially confidential reports to Epstein while serving as a UK trade envoy, a role he held between 2001 and 2011. The furore over his uncle threatens to eclipse William's three-day visit to the Gulf nation, a trip seen as contentious by some due to fierce criticism of Saudi Arabia's human rights record. The trip, which will wrap up on Wednesday, aims to celebrate growing trade, energy and investment ties ahead of the two nations marking a century of diplomatic relations. Advertisement Advertisement William, a keen environmentalist, is also set to visit the historic city of AlUla, where he will learn about conservation efforts, according to Kensington Palace. A warm relationship has long existed between the Saudi and British royal families, and Saudi Arabia is seen as one of Britain's most important strategic partners in the Gulf. The late Queen Elizabeth II hosted Saudi royals on four state visits, on a par with other key allies such as France and Germany. - 'Diplomatic arena' - Simon Mabon, chair in international relations at Lancaster University, said the two royal families have had "close links" for many years. Advertisement Advertisement William's involvement, which comes at the UK government's request at a time when it was on the "back foot" economically, could be seen as an attempt to "capitalise on a bit of royal fraternity", he said. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said the government was keen to deploy William's diplomatic skills, as when he met US President Donald Trump in Paris in 2024. "He's very polished when it comes to the diplomatic arena, which is very important," he told AFP. But Fitzwilliams noted there was "always the danger that royal activities, which are planned so long in advance, are subsumed by current news". Advertisement Advertisement The last senior royal to make an official visit to Riyadh was William's father, the current King Charles III, when he was Prince of Wales in February 2014. The UK has previously raised concerns over Saudi Arabia's human rights record. In 2020, it sanctioned 20 Saudi nationals involved in the killing and dismemberment of US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who died at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. In 2021, former US President Joe Biden declassified an intelligence report that suggested Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had approved the operation against Khashoggi -- an allegation the Saudi authorities deny. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met the crown prince in Riyadh in December 2024. Trade in goods and services between the two countries was $23.5 billion in the year to June 30, 2025. mp-har-jj/smw/dcp Yoshihiko Noda (L) and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, attend a press conference in Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 9, 2026. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, announced on Monday that they would resign from their posts to take responsibility for the party's defeat in the House of Representatives election. (Xinhua/Jia Haocheng) TOKYO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The two co-leaders of Japan's main opposition Centrist Reform Alliance (CRA) announced on Monday that they would resign to take responsibility for the party's major defeat in the lower house election. The CRA, formed in January by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Komeito party, saw its lower house seats drastically reduced to 49 from the pre-election tally of about 170 after Sunday's race. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of the newly formed opposition, informed a party board meeting of their intention to resign from their posts. "The election results are disastrous," Noda said at a press conference on Monday morning. "We'll naturally take responsibility." Noda told reporters that the new leadership will be decided by Feb. 18, in time for a parliamentary session to reinstate Sanae Takaichi as Japan's prime minister following the House of Representatives election. Yoshihiko Noda (L) and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, attend a press conference in Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 9, 2026. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, announced on Monday that they would resign from their posts to take responsibility for the party's defeat in the House of Representatives election. (Xinhua/Jia Haocheng) Yoshihiko Noda (L) and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, attend a press conference in Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 9, 2026. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, announced on Monday that they would resign from their posts to take responsibility for the party's defeat in the House of Representatives election. (Xinhua/Jia Haocheng) Yoshihiko Noda (L) and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, attend a press conference in Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 9, 2026. Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito, co-leaders of Japan's main opposition party Centrist Reform Alliance, announced on Monday that they would resign from their posts to take responsibility for the party's defeat in the House of Representatives election. (Xinhua/Jia Haocheng) By Scott Murdoch and Alasdair Pal SYDNEY, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Thousands gathered across Australia on Monday to protest over the arrival of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who is on a multi-city trip aimed at expressing solidarity with Australia's Jewish community following a deadly mass shooting last year. Herzog is visiting Australia this week following an invitation from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the aftermath of the December 14 shooting at a Hanukkah event at Sydney's Bondi Beach that killed 15. Advertisement Advertisement The visit has attracted the ire of some people in Australia, who accuse Herzog of being complicit in civilian deaths in Gaza. Pro-Palestine groups have organised protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday evening. In Sydney, thousands gathered in a square in the city's central business district, listening to speeches and shouting pro-Palestine slogans. "The Bondi massacre was terrible but from our Australian leadership theres been no acknowledgment of the Palestinian people and the Gazans," said Jackson Elliott, a 30-year-old protestor from Sydney. "Herzog has dodged all the questions about the occupation and says this visit is about Australia and Israeli relations but he is complicit." Advertisement Advertisement There was a heavy police presence with a helicopter circling overhead and officers patrolling on horseback. Police used pepper spray and tear gas to push back groups of people who were trying to breach the line and march ahead. Several protesters were arrested as they clashed with police. Authorities in Sydney declared Herzog's visit a major event and were authorised to use rarely invoked powers during the visit, including the ability to separate and move crowds, restrict their entry to certain areas, direct people to leave and search vehicles. On Monday in a Sydney court, the Palestine Action Group - which organised the protest - failed to legally challenge the restrictions on the demonstration. Advertisement Advertisement PRESIDENT COMMEMORATES LIVES LOST Meanwhile, thousands of Jewish community members, government officials and opposition party politicians welcomed Herzog at an event, more than a kilometre away from the protests, honouring the victims of the Bondi attack. "We all remember the boycotts, the threats, the colleagues who turned their backs on their Jewish friends ... that was the prelude to Bondi," he told a large crowd at Sydney's International Convention Centre, according to an ABC News report. Herzog began his visit earlier on Monday at Bondi Beach, where he laid a wreath at a memorial for the victims of the attack. He also met survivors and the families of 15 people killed in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement "This was also an attack on all Australians. They attacked the values that our democracies treasure, the sanctity of human life, the freedom of religion, tolerance, dignity and respect," Herzog said in remarks at the site. In a statement, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry Co-Chief Executive Alex Ryvchin said Herzog's visit "will lift the spirits of a pained community." The Jewish Council of Australia, a vocal critic of the Israeli government, released an open letter on Monday signed by over 1,000 Jewish Australian academics and community leaders, urging Albanese to rescind Herzog's invitation. (Reporting by Renju Jose, Alasdair Pal and Scott Murdoch in Sydney; editing by Diane Craft and Michael Perry) The Jerusalem District Committee had been set to meet on Monday as part of the approval process for Bashar al-Masris hotel, after the plan was approved by a local committee before the war. The absence of mechanisms enabling Jerusalems Planning and Building Committee to vet the security backgrounds of real estate developers nearly allowed a Palestinian businessman accused of supporting Hamas to build a hotel in Jerusalem, the Knessets Internal Affairs and Environment Committee heard on Monday. Tzviya Zicherman, legal adviser to the Planning Committee, explained that the plan was originally submitted by the Greek Orthodox Church, and only in recent days did the committee learn that the land had been sold to an Italian company, which is why the discussion was removed from the agenda. The district planning office has no ability at all to check the identity of the applicants, she noted. Advertisement Advertisement The Jerusalem District Planning Committee had been set to meet on Monday as part of the approval process for Bashar al-Masris hotel after the plan was approved by a local committee before the war. The meeting was canceled after the families of deceased former hostages protested, noting that Masri is currently being sued in the US over his alleged facilitation of Hamas terrorist activities in the Gaza Strip. Attorney Moran Revivo from the Jerusalem Municipality confirmed that, in light of the new information, it was decided to halt the discussion of the plan and remove it from the agenda. A massive construction site off Jaffa Road, not far from the entrance to Jerusalem, seen in 2022. (credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM) Oversight failures nearly allowed Jerusalem hotel with Hamas ties This is an inconceivable event, Knesset Internal Affairs Committee chair MK Yitzhak Kreuzer (Otzma Yehudit) said as he opened the discussion. Advertisement Advertisement We are witnessing enormous involvement of money and initiatives wrapped in nice words about coexistence, but these are whitewashed explanations. It has been proven that Hamas terror tunnels ran beneath al-Masris hotels, that he supplied them with food and electricity, and there is no chance he didnt know about it. While a lawsuit by hundreds of bereaved families is being conducted against him in the United States, here in Israel, he operates without interference. Ruby Chen, the father of St.-Sgt. Itay Chen, Eyal Waldman, father of Danielle Waldman, and Yizhar Shai, father of St.-Sgt. Yaron Uri Shai were among those who protested the plans. We call on the acting interior minister, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the mayor of Jerusalem, Mr. Moshe Lion, to immediately halt this moral outrage and remove the proposal from the committees agenda, they stated. The fathers noted the ongoing lawsuit against Masri in the US, in which 200 families alleged multiple of Masris Gaza-based properties concealed tunnels underneath them and hadtunnel entrances accessible from within the properties, which Hamas used in terrorist operations before, on, and after October 7. Defendants facilitated the construction and concealment of those tunnels and even built above-ground solar panel installations that they then used to supply Hamas with electricity to the tunnels, the lawsuit claimed. Advertisement Advertisement While Masris office at the time called the lawsuit baseless, he resigned from his position at Harvard Universitys Kennedy School of Government shortly after. Notably, the lawyers seeking action against Masri said in August that they were unable to locate him to serve him a legal summons. Masri did not respond to The Jerusalem Posts request for comment. While MK Kreuzer promised he would do everything possible to block and prevent him from accessing construction tenders in Israel in the future, the lack of oversight already caused harm to the families of those killed by Hamas. While Masris office at the time called the lawsuit baseless, he resigned from his position at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government shortly after. Notably, the lawyers seeking action against Masri said in August that they were unable to locate him to serve him a legal summons. Advertisement Advertisement Masri did not respond to The Jerusalem Posts request for comment. While MK Kreuzer promised he would do everything possible to block and prevent him from accessing construction tenders in Israel in the future, the lack of oversight already caused harm to the families of those killed by Hamas. Ruby Chen, whose American-Israeli son was killed defending Nahal Oz during Hamass invasion, told the Post, Its very sad that we need to deal with the trauma after two years of fighting to bring our son back, and part of the rehabilitation would be the fact that we will be able to focus on rehabilitation, but instead, we see this type of injustice happen also by the State of Israel. The bereaved father shared that he couldnt understand how there was so little oversight on a multi-million shekel project and added that it was unusual that Masri had been able to enter the country through an Israeli airport without question. How is it that he is also not denied that type of service? he asked. Advertisement Advertisement What prevents Mr. Masri, in a minority holding or any type of entity that he is associated with, from buying a piece of land in Beersheba or Tel Aviv And how is it that the Israeli justice system is not able to at least identify those individuals that are sought in international courts? he continued. There needs to be a process that puts these people in a very specific category, that does not allow them to benefit financially and [does] not allow them to do business in Israel if there were crimes that they committed. While finding the incident distressing, Chen said he hoped that the public attention gained would bring new energy to the lawsuit against Masri and encourage Israel to help facilitate the serving of the Palestinian millionaire. Until today, we have not seen that the Israelis have been able to identify him and serve him with these papers, he said. Hopefully that will change soon. In their public statement, the fathers shared, While Israel is drawing yellow lines in Gaza that Hamas terrorists are forbidden from crossing, Israel is allowing Bashar al-Masri to roam freely on the streets of Tel Aviv, dine in restaurants and hotels, and now the absurdity reaches its peak, as he is about to receive land from the state to build a hotel and luxury buildings in a strategic location facing the Old City in Jerusalem. Advertisement Advertisement "That alleged terrorist in a suit, who hosted Hamass top leaders at his hotel in Gaza and simultaneously enabled them to use compounds beneath the hotel, is about to build a hotel here in Israel! he continued. The parents of the deceased hostages warned that any transfer of land to Masri would have carried the lesson for future terrorists that they can murder Jews today [and] profit from it tomorrow. Our childrens blood is no longer just forfeit; it has become a lucrative real estate plan, they said. It is forbidden to give Bashar al-Masri even one square centimeter, at least until his trial is concluded. Keshet Neev contributed to this report. Then-Majority Floor Leader Abraham Aiyash (D-Hamtramck) addresses the membership of the House on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, at the state Capitol in Lansing. Abraham Aiyash, a former majority floor leader in the Michigan House of Representatives, said Monday that he would seek the Democratic nomination for the states Senate in a newly redrawn district that came about during the last redistricting cycle. Aiyash, of Hamtramck, is running to serve in the Legislatures upper chamber representing the 1st Senate District. He announced his bid on Monday. The seat is currently represented by state Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor), and was reconfigured by the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission after it was sued over using racial considerations when redrawing Detroit-centric districts. Advertisement Advertisement Aiyash served in the House from 2020 to 2024, during the first Democratic trifecta in the House, Senate and the governors office after many decades of Republican control. The new seat covers parts of Detroit and the Downriver communities of Ecorse, Lincoln Park, River Rouge and Wayandotte. Aiyash told The Michigan Chronicle in December that he planned to jump in the race, but Mondays announcement makes it official. Already in the Democratic race for the 1st Senate District is Justin Onwenu, the former Detroit entrepreneurship director under previous Mayor Mike Duggan. Aiyash said he would aim to put community over corporate interests, calling out corporations like DTE Energy in the opening line of his campaign announcement. Im running for Michigan Senate. Whether you sing it or say it, Detroit and Downriver deserve respect. And that starts with a government that prioritizes community needs over corporate interest. Join us. https://t.co/cjdrkwjWPT pic.twitter.com/cymfxOAudy Abraham Aiyash (@AbrahamAiyash) February 9, 2026 Why do we love Michigan? Our winters are cold, car insurance is so damn expensive, and DTE makes us mad, Aiyash said. And its getting harder and harder to raise a family here. But no matter how much it frustrates us, Michigan is home. We make friendships for a lifetime, and the communities we build are special. Advertisement Advertisement That said, Aiyash noted in his campaign announcement that living in those communities should not be made harder by corporate interests acting against the community. DTE bills climbed higher and higher over the past few years, while its service quality fell by the wayside, he said. Aiyash is now running on a message of freezing DTE rates so they dont climb any higher over the next five years, ending zip code taxing in car insurance rate setting, and instituting universal child care in the state. Asheville could be just a train ride away. Thats the hope of the N.C. Department of Transportation, which is looking into a plan that could connect western North Carolina to its existing rail service. A recent study by NCDOT shows that restoring rail service between Salisbury and Asheville could generate nearly 5,300 jobs statewide and more than $1 billion in state and local tax revenue. Were really looking at a better-connected North Carolina when it comes to passenger rail,said Jason Orthner, rail division director for NCDOT. He called Asheville one of his teams most-requested destinations. Advertisement Advertisement The proposed route could also bring back passenger service to Statesville, Hickory, Morganton and Marion for the first time since 1975. Orthner said the line would give Raleigh and Charlotte easier access to the west while invigorating the economy. He also pointed to the states ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene, which saw mountain communities devastated by flooding. Read more here. WATCH: Concord town hall meeting tackles teen violence and gun crime Megan Moore, mother of 14-year-old Caleb Moore from El Dorado, who died by suicide after sexual extortion, testified Feb. 5, 2026, before the House Judiciary Committee in favor of a bill that would increase penalties for the crime and provide educational materials. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector) The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 988. Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential. Advertisement Advertisement TOPEKA Three parents testified Thursday before the House Judiciary Committee about losing their teenage sons to suicide after the boys were targeted by sexual extortion schemes online. Caleb Moore, Gavin Guffey, and Evan Boettler were each approached by what seemed to be teenage girls online and pressured into sending sexually explicit pictures. The people behind the accounts later revealed to be scammers threatened to expose the images unless the boys paid them. All three died by suicide. The parents testified in support of House Bill 2537, which would increase the penalties for sexual extortion when an adult targets a child, and would require the state to provide educational materials warning Kansans about the crime. For Caleb, a 14-year-old from El Dorado, the scammers demanded a $50 Apple gift card. Morgan Moore, Calebs mom, said Caleb responded to the Nigerian scammers by saying he had $46 in cash. Advertisement Advertisement When the threats did not stop, and they would not allow more time for my son to find an Apple Store, he sent them a picture of the weapon and told them what his intentions were if they did not stop, Moore said. They encouraged him to do so over a $50 Apple gift card, she added. Nobody can convince me that anyone in any part of the world wants a $50 gift card that bad. I do believe that it is on the level of terrorism, social engineering, psychological warfare, and is targeted toward kids who are going to grow up and be the pillars that we want in our communities. Caleb died in June. Moore held back tears as she described her sons death. There were 35 minutes between the scammers first threat and Calebs death. Moore questions if Caleb would still be alive had he known about the crime. Advertisement Advertisement This is what sex extortion does, Moore said. It gains power through silence, speed, and isolation. It convinces a child that there is no survivable outcome and no redeemable way out of the situation. Moore said teenage boys are reluctant to talk about their problems. I think theyre aware that these boys dont want to embarrass their parents, they dont want to disappoint their friends, their schools, Moore said. They take advantage of that. The bill would direct the Attorney Generals Office to provide educational materials about the crime and work with the State Board of Education and law enforcement to distribute them. Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Guffey, a legislator from Rock Hill, South Carolina, started a nonprofit dedicated to fighting sex extortion after his son, Gavin, died by suicide in 2022. Since Gavins death, the number of under-18 victims has increased rapidly especially with the rise of artificial intelligence. He said with the use of AI, scammers now can use a photo of a childs face to create realistic sexually explicit images. I firmly believe that if my son knew this was happening to many teens, and that he wasnt alone, and he was a victim of organized criminal networks, he would be with us today, Guffey said to the committee. I have fielded literally hundreds of calls with suicidal teens in my advocacy that were brave enough to seek help. I know sharing Gavins story has saved lives. I know now that in my political infancy, my own ignorance to think of fellow lawmakers as an enemy could have cost additional teenage lives. Brad Boettler, from Aurora, Missouri, testifies Feb. 5, 2026, before the House Judiciary Committee. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector) Brad Boettler, from Aurora, Missouri, said his son Evan died by suicide after sexual extortion in 2024. We were an involved, open family. As educators, we talked with Evan about the dangers of social media, the dangers we knew, Boettler said. What we did not know was sextortion. After losing Evan, we learned that sextortion is one of the fastest-growing crimes against children, especially teenage boys. Families across this country are losing sons and daughters the same way we lost Evan. Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers also heard testimony for House Bill 2594, which aims to fix a loophole in the breach of privacy statute. The bill was requested by Smith County Attorney Tabitha Owen, who said the current law defines blackmail as threatening to release any media obtained by a breach of privacy. But the breach of privacy statute has an age requirement of 18 and older. This, likely unintentionally, creates a gap whereby a person can threaten to disseminate sexually explicit media of a person under 18 without committing an act of blackmail under the law in Kansas, Owen said. She said the bill would also cover AI and other digitally created images as blackmail, which both groups of testifiers said is a growing concern. There were no opponents to either bill. Publix is soon opening a second new Florida location, the company announced on its website. Unlike the renovated Clearwater Publix opening the week before, the Publix in west St. Petersburg will be all new but both will feature the Lakeland-based chain's updated shopper-friendly style. The doors will whoosh open on March 12, after a ribbon cutting. The 55,454 square-foot store will include many of the new design features Publix has introduced to other new renovated locations in the last year or so such as wider lanes, self-checkout lanes, expanded deli options like burrito bowls and fresh baked pizza, a salad bar and hot food buffet, and larger displays in the bakery, meat and seafood departments. Advertisement Advertisement The St. Petersburg Publix will also have a pharmacy, a seating area and an adjacent Publix Liquors store, spokesperson Lindsey Willis said in an email. The previous building, a renovated Albertsons, was demolished in 2024, TBNWeekly.com reported. Publix also will be closing a nearby location in Eagles Park Retail Center at 5577 Park St. N. on Saturday, March 7. Publix Supermarkets has opened or reopened dozens of stores in 2025, many of them in Florida, featuring amenities such as olive bars, popcorn stands, Pours beverage bars, expanded service for online ordering, delivery and curbside pickup. When is the new Florida Publix opening? The new St. Petersburg Publix is opening at 7 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, Willis said. There will be a short ribbon-cutting ceremony just before that. Where is the new Florida Publix opening? The new Publix is at 6605 38th Ave North in St. Petersburg. When is the next Publix opening? The renovated Clearwater Publix is reopening at 7 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Will the giant Publix shopping cart be at the grand opening? A giant Publix shopping cart is seen outside on July 19, 2025, at the grand opening of Publix Riverland Town Center at 12407 S.W. Community Blvd. Maybe! The massive 119 tall, 14 long and more than 7.5 wide Publix shopping cart can often be seen cruising around the area whenever a Publix opens. Advertisement Advertisement The cart, built on top of a Volkswagen Sand Rail, has a driver sitting underneath and can reach speeds up to 45 mph. More grocery chains expanding in Florida Publix isn't the only chain making big changes. In 2025, discount grocery chain Aldi opened about 60 locations in the Sunshine State, many of them converted Winn-Dixie locations from Aldi's brief acquisition of that company in 2024-2025. It was part of a push for the chain to open 225 new stores nationwide in 2025, the most they've ever opened in a single year. This year, the company is shooting for 180 new stores. The newly renamed The Winn-Dixie Company is refocusing its efforts on its home state with plans for community-friendly redesigns. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile Trader Joe's, a more upscale grocery destination, opened a location in Daytona Beach in November and another in Melbourne on Dec. 3. Where can I find a Publix near me in Florida? As of Dec. 15, there were 908 Publix locations in Florida, more than four times as many as any other state, according to data site ScrapeHero. You can find one near you at publix.com/locations. C. A. Bridges is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Floridas best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Publix opening new, expanded Florida store in March. What to know Secretary of State Gregg Amore, left, and General Treasurer James Diossa, right are both in their first terms as general office holders. (Photos by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) Secretary of State Gregg Amore and General Treasurer James Diossas latest campaign finance reports show six figure cash reserves. Amore is so far unopposed while Diossa has one opponent: Republican Micholas Credle, who filed his initial notice of organization paperwork on Jan. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Erich Haslehurst, a spokesperson for Amores campaign, said via email Monday that the secretary is planning a formal announcement of his reelection campaign for March 11. Diossas office did not immediately return a request for an update on if and when he plans to announce his intentions to run again for his office. Credle, a Providence resident, filed after the new year so his public campaign account does not show any fundraising 2025 activity. According to the Providence Journal, Credle moved to Rhode Island in 2019 after time in the military. Credles LinkedIn page lists him as chairman of the board and president of Newports The Pyramid Club, which the page describes as a distinguished private social institution established in 1951 by visionary members of Stone Mill Lodge No. 3, under the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. Advertisement Advertisement Diossa reported raising $67,960 for the last quarter of 2025, ending the year with $282,117 on hand. His gains during the last quarter consisted of $63,560 from individual donors and $4,400 from political action committees. He spent $33,010 during the period from Oct.1 through Dec. 31, 2025, according to the report. While most contributors came from Rhode Island addresses including $100 from East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva the report also listed out-of-state donations from supporters in Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Illinois. PAC donations to Diossa included $500 from the Providence Fire Fighters Public Safety PAC and $150 from the RI Federation of Teachers COPE PAC. Amore ended the year with about $180,070 cash on hand, after raising a reported $54,417 during the final quarter of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Those Q4 donations consisted of $42,267 from individual donors and $11,900 from political action committees, plus $250 from the East Providence Ward 4 Democratic City Committee. Amore spent $7,605 during this period, according to the filing. Amores donor base remained more local, with a few out-of-state supporters from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Washington, D.C. But it was more thoroughly populated with support from elected officials across the state. Senate President Valarie Lawson donated $500 while Majority Leader Frank Ciccone gave $250. East Providences Mayor DaSilva donated $100, while former Providence Mayors Jorge Elorza and Joseph Paolino each gave $500. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien gave $150. A number of Amores former colleagues in the Rhode Island House of Representatives including Reps. Arthur Corvese, Jason Knight, John Lombardi, Carol Hagan McEntee, and Majority Leader Christopher Blazejewski donated to Amores campaign fund in the final quarter of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Former Rep. Camille Vella-Wilkinson, a Democrat who represented Warwick before deciding not to seek reelection in 2024, gave $50 to Amore. As for PACs, Amore received $750 from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 35 PAC, based in Maryland. Rhode Island law allows for individuals and PACs to donate up to $2,000 per candidate in a single calendar year. Both Amore and Diossa are serving their first four-year terms. Rhode Island limits general office-holders to two consecutive four-year terms. Diossa, who was once the mayor of Central Falls, was elected in 2022 with 54% of the vote compared to Republican rival James Lathrop. Advertisement Advertisement Amore, once a state rep, also won his seat in the 2022 election, garnering 59% of the vote compared to his GOP opponent Pat Cortellessa. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX For Ebrahim Ghezelgechi, the choice was simple: leave Iran or be killed. The father of two had already been beaten, tortured, sentenced to a year in prison and given 50 lashes for joining the protests over the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. After his release he was no longer the person he had once been. He fell into a deep depression, lost his faith in Islam and began attending a Christian church a decision that imperilled him further. When intelligence agents raided the home of the churchs minister, seizing documents that included his name and photograph, he knew he had to flee. I was afraid they were coming for me, he says. What he had not expected, after crossing half the world to seek asylum with his family, was to find himself stranded in Panama deported by the United States and facing the possibility of being sent back to the very country he had fled. Now 37, Mr Ghezelgechi remains trapped in legal limbo, exactly a year after the Trump administration deported him and 298 others from the United States to the central American nation. All were non-Panamanians, expelled under a third-country deportation agreement, an early Trump-era move that drew international condemnation. Today the familys case sits uneasily alongside Mr Trumps recent rhetoric and massive military build-up aimed at Iran. In late December, demonstrations once more spread rapidly across Iran. Initially sparked by soaring prices, the protests quickly turned against the clerical rulers who have governed since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The security forces responded ruthlessly, using live ammunition, mass arrests and torture in an effort to suppress the unrest. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 6,854 people were killed during the crackdown, including 6,430 protesters and at least 152 children. Mr Trump seized on criticism of Washingtons long-standing rival, warning Tehran that it would pay a big price for killing protesters, urging demonstrators to keep protesting, and promising that help was on its way. And yet, just one year earlier, he had kicked out dozens of Iranians who had fled that same political persecution, without giving them the chance to make an asylum claim, and sent them to a third country, where many were encouraged to return to Iran. Dr Jim Recht, a lecturer on psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, spent time with some of the deportees including Mr Ghezelgechi in February 2025. He said Mr Trumps recent comments were beyond tragic irony. Precisely the type of persecution that Trump is saying he supposedly wants to assist people in overcoming could have cost Ebrahim and his family their lives if they hadnt fled, Dr Recht said. He and his family were subsequently punished by the United States for attempting to seek a better life, a life in freedom from that persecution. The gap between rhetoric and reality is laid bare in Mr Ghezelgechis experience. Mr Ghezelgechi was once an ordinary shop worker in Tehrans Grand Bazaar, selling clothes and raising a family. Like many Iranians, his life was transformed by the protests that swept the country in 2022 after the death of Ms Amini in the custody of Irans morality police. As the father of a daughter, he says, the anger felt impossible to contain. I thought this could happen to my child one day, he recalls. I could no longer stay at home. Night after night, he joined the demonstrations. Police dispersed crowds with batons and stun guns. Live ammunition was fired. Hundreds died and nearly 20,000 arrested. We believed we were fighting for the future of children everywhere, he says. So they could live without fear. Instead, he watched as the protests were crushed with brutality. One night, he says, members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij militia surrounded protesters from all sides. There was no escape. As people ran, he fell to the ground and was beaten unconscious. When he woke, he was in a detention facility. Prisoners were denied sleep, with the floors intentionally flooded with water. Violence was used frequently. By the time he was released, Mr Ghezelgechi had lost several teeth. Unfortunately, after all the protests, nothing had changed, he says. The Ghezelgechi family fled Iran to escape persecution for taking part in the 2022 protests over the death of Mahsa Amini - AFP Leaving Iran was not simple. After several failed attempts, the family finally secured Brazilian and Nicaraguan visas within days of each other. Two days after the second visa was issued, they left. Their journey took them from Iran to Dubai, then Brazil, Panama, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico. Along the way, they faced repeated danger. In Mexico, they spent 12 hours clinging to a freight train with no seats. Mr Ghezelgechi tied his wife and children to a metal rail with a rope so they would not fall as the train lurched forward. When they finally crossed into the United States, exhausted and hopeful, they were detained for a week. Mr Ghezelgechi believed their asylum claim was under review. Instead, without warning, they were deported to Panama in February 2025. These people were seeking asylum, specifically seeking protection from persecution, and deported en masse, literally without their knowledge, says Dr Recht. Some people thought they were going to be killed. It was a terrifying experience for virtually every one of them. Mr Ghezelgechi says he had no idea he was being deported until the plane landed in Panama. As far as I knew, the United States had never deported a family with an Iranian child. Our case wasnt even investigated. We were very scared. We spent a whole week in shock, anxiety, and stress, crying, he says. From there, the Panamanian authorities held the deportees for a month in harsh conditions in the Darien jungle, before officials attempted to return them to their home countries. Mr Ghezelgechis relocation only stalled when a video of him and other deported migrants went viral broadcast on Iranian media bringing further danger. Our identities were revealed, he says. The intelligence services knew who we were. Mr Ghezelgechi does not criticise the United States for deporting him and says it remains Irans only saviour. Nor does he condemn Mr Trump. Mr Ghezelgechi says he understands the need for border enforcement, which he describes as logical, and believes governments must protect themselves from criminals. There are bad people, he says. I agree that countries must be careful. But, he adds, his case should have been investigated. If they had sent me directly back to Iran, he says, I would certainly no longer be alive. Most of the 299 deported have since left Panama, with some attempting to return to the United States. Others, however, remain stranded, including migrants from Iran, Afghanistan and Ethiopia. Many say they are trapped in legal limbo after the rejection of their asylum claims. Dr Recht said: Its a disgrace, the idea that our government would treat a family of four like this, in Ebrahims case, parents who left Iran because they were persecuted. The family receives some support from charities, but neither parent is permitted to work and the children have not yet been registered for school, he says. Were kind of like prisoners, Mr Ghezelgechi adds. Other than one woman, Dr Recht says he has not heard of anyone reaching a place where they can live in safety. Some analysts warn that Mr Trumps recent comments on Iran may have been a matter of convenience rather than conviction. Trump was latching on to this issue as one more tool in which to bludgeon the Iranians, says Michael Hanna of the International Crisis. It seemed like a convenient prop for the bigger dispute the US has with Iran. Yet for all the talk of protests, analysts say they are unlikely to feature in any negotiations. Its not clear where these issues fit into that agenda at all, says Mr Hanna. The focus has reverted to the familiar priorities the nuclear programme, Irans ballistic missiles, and its regional activities through proxies. For families like the Ghezelgechis, it leaves their future uncertain. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. President Donald Trumps Religious Liberty Commission discussed antisemitism at its hearing in Washington, DC, on Feb. 9, the same day the commission was sued for allegedly violating federal law requiring such groups to have viewpoint balance. The hearing at the Museum of the Bible centered on antisemitism on college campuses and the role of state and local officials in defending religious liberty. An audience member was removed at one point for outbursts during remarks by commissioner Carrie Prejean, who rejected notions that anti-Zionism equates to antisemitism. She also sparred with a witness and The Babylon Bee CEO, Seth Dillon, in defense of Candace Owens, rejecting his suggestion that Owens had made antisemitic remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Other witnesses included Jewish Christian Alliance Founder Liat Cohen-Reeis, who said antisemitic incidents are happening all over the country, and Moshe Glick, who was pardoned in January for charges stemming from a pro-Palestinian protest that devolved into violence at a New Jersey synagogue in 2024. Glick was accused of hitting a protester in the head with a flashlight, according to the New York Times. At the hearing, Glick attributed the countrys "extraordinary success to its embrace of Judeo-Christian values and said societies can prosper or fall depending on their support for and protection of Jewish people. The hearing also referenced the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, the law federal prosecutors have invoked in charging journalists who covered an anti-ICE protest at a Minnesota church in January. The law bars, among other actions, intentionally injuring, intimidating or interfering with a person attempting to seek or provide services at a reproductive health facility or place of worship. It specifies, however, that the act should not be used to prohibit any expressive conduct including peaceful picketing or other peaceful demonstration protected by the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Trumps White House has maintained that past administrations weaponized the law against religious Americans. Leo Terrell, a civil rights attorney who heads the Department of Justices Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, described it primarily as a local matter given the tremendous federal protections for religious liberty. He added that antisemitism shouldnt be seen as a Jewish issue. This is an issue of right versus wrong, and its wrong to have antisemitism in this country, he said. Antisemitism was also discussed in the commissions Sept. 8 hearing on religious liberty in public education. That hearing included an announcement from Trump about upcoming guidance from the Department of Education on the right to prayer in public schools, which was released on Feb. 5. Advertisement Advertisement The number of antisemitic incidents nationwide spiked in the wake of Israel's war in Gaza following Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack, according to the Anti-Defamation League. More: Trump announces event to 'rededicate America as one nation under God' Trump established the commission, which is tasked with advising the government on religious liberty issues, in 2025. The members' terms, and the commission itself, will end on July 4, 2026 the 250th anniversary of American independence unless Trump extends it. The executive order establishing the commission said Americans need to be reacquainted with our nations superb experiment in religious freedom in order to preserve it against emerging threats. Advertisement Advertisement The Feb. 9 lawsuit, filed by groups including Interfaith Alliance and Hindus for Human Rights, accused the commission of having a lack of religious and ideological diversity in violation of a federal law requiring such groups to be "fairly balanced in terms of the points of view represented." The commission includes Protestant, Catholic and Jewish people, but no Muslims or members of other minority religious groups. Its members broadly "espouse the view that America is a 'Judeo-Christian' nation with limited, if any restrictions, on infusing their religious values into government," the lawsuit said. BrieAnna Frank is a First Amendment reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at bjfrank@usatoday.com. USA TODAY's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Funders do not provide editorial input. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump's Religious Liberty Commission holds hearing on antisemitism NEED TO KNOW Renee Nicole Good's wife made her first public appearance after the mother of three was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on Jan. 7 On Saturday, Feb. 7, Becca Good appeared onstage in front of hundreds of people in Minneapolis who had gathered to commemorate Renee's life "Renee and I believed that if we lived every day in the world as we wanted it to be, we could build toward making that world a reality," Becca also shared in a new personal statement obtained by PEOPLE Renee Nicole Good's wife made her first public appearance and shared a new personal statement after the mother of three was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis last month. On Saturday, Feb. 7, Becca Good appeared onstage in front of hundreds of people in Minneapolis who had gathered to commemorate her late partner's life, one month after her death at age 37, according to The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Although she didn't speak at the event, Becca shared a statement, obtained by PEOPLE and read aloud at the memorial by Rabbi Arielle Lekach-Rosenberg. "Becca Good, Renee's wife, has had to grieve alone for weeks," Lekach-Rosenberg said at the public event. "This is a really important moment Rebecca gets to share words back to you. So, it is my honor to get to offer Becca's words." Becca began her statement by thanking the Minneapolis community for their support. "Minneapolis has shown me that even in the middle of grief and fear, people still show up for each other. For that, I want to say thank you," she wrote. "Thank you to this incredible community for showing up again and again organizing food and rides, making sure our kids get to school, checking in on neighbors, and standing together in the cold. I am so proud to call Minneapolis my home." Advertisement Advertisement "Renee was not the first person killed, and she was not the last. You know my wifes name, and you know Alexs name, but there are many others in this city being harmed that you dont know their families are hurting just like mine, even if they dont look like mine," she continued, referencing the Jan. 24 killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. "They are neighbors, friends, coworkers, classmates. And we must also know their names. Because this shouldnt happen to anyone," Becca said. Renee Good's sister, Annie Ganger (wearing a pink hat), and wife, Becca Good (wearing a blue hat), attend a public memorial ceremony for the mother of three on Feb. 7, 2026, in Minneapolis. AP Photo/Ryan Murphy) Becca also wrote of her late partner's work as a volunteer and teacher as well as how she always "showed up" as a mom and friend. "[She was] always helping out, making things a little better for others. Seeing the world now celebrate the parts of her that Ive always known the kindness, the humor, the warmth reminds me of her spirit," she continued. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In her statement, Becca also spoke about the couple's 6-year-old son, saying: "Renee and I believed that if we lived every day in the world as we wanted it to be, we could build toward making that world a reality. So I am doing that every day and every night, as I kiss my son at bedtime and tell him things are going to get better." Advertisement Advertisement "Renee and I chose kindness. We believed that every life deserves the same care, treatment and dignity, no matter who they are or what they look like," Becca's statement concluded. "That shouldnt be radical. If it is, then I want Renee and our family to be known for how we practiced radical kindness every day." In addition to sharing her 6-year-old child with her late husband, Timmy Macklin Jr., who died at age 36 in 2023, Renee was also a mom to two older children, a daughter and a son from her first marriage, who are 12 and 15 years old, the Associated Press previously reported. On Jan. 7, Renee had just dropped her son off at school before a deadly encounter with federal immigration agents, PEOPLE previously reported. She was driving home with Becca when they came upon a group of ICE agents, her ex-husband told AP. The man, who asked to remain anonymous, said Renee and Becca had moved to Minneapolis last year from Kansas City, Mo. Advertisement Advertisement The confrontation was captured on video by an ICE agent, who was circling Renee's Honda Pilot while she sat in the driver's seat. Becca was standing outside the vehicle talking to the agent, and the since-released footage shows a black dog sitting in the back seat watching with the window rolled down. Protesters hold signs as they march against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis on Jan. 10, 2026 Octavio JONES / AFP via Getty The incident quickly escalated when Renee began to move her car, prompting an agent, who has since been identified as Jonathan Ross, to fire his weapon at her. The vehicle continued driving away after Renee was shot and crashed down the road. A voice behind the camera was then heard saying, "F---ing bitch." A Minneapolis resident who lives near the site of the shooting told PEOPLE that they asked Becca shortly afterward whether she had anyone she could call. Becca replied, "Thats my wife. They shot her in the f----ing head, dude. This is ridiculous!" Renee's sister, Annie Ganger, was also in attendance at Saturday's memorial event, according to the Times. She addressed the crowd, sharing that she was "proud" of the Minnesota community that had come together in the aftermath of her sister's killing. Advertisement Advertisement "We who do not live in this area of Minnesota see this powerful work that you're doing despite the pushback, and it encouraged us to dive into our own communities. We are so proud," she said, choking up. "My family is so grateful for you. Thank you for being my sister's home." "Renee was completely hilarious," she added. "Every time I talked to her, I laughed until I cry-snorted, but she cried-snorted with me." "I think Renee's advice to us right now would be to take care of ourselves, care for our neighbors," Ganger finished. "Receive care from our neighbors, rest and eat, and play and show up." Read the original article on People BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have revealed an action plan to promote the inheritance and development of theatrical arts over the next three years, starting from 2026. According to the plan, efforts will be made to invigorate innovation and creativity in theatre, significantly improve the quality of productions, and produce a new batch of outstanding theatrical works. The plan aims to expand the ranks of theatre professionals, with a steady emergence of leading young talent. It also emphasizes the establishment of a sound mechanism to support, guide and coordinate theatrical creation, along with a marked improvement in the industry ecosystem. The action plan specifies measures such as supporting the development of theatre troupes, enhancing the effectiveness of production evaluation and funding support, strengthening the inheritance of theatrical arts, and promoting its public outreach. The plan was jointly issued by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles. ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) Representative Ben Cline is urging voters to reject a proposed congressional map he says would cancel rural and conservative voices across the Commonwealth. This map will be in the hands of voters on April 21 where Cline hopes people will reject the referendum. The proposed map would create a 101 Democratic advantage and stretch across several districts. Cline called the proposal an extreme example of gerrymandering and said it undermines the states nonpartisan redistricting process. Advertisement Advertisement It disappointed me, the congressman said. Its an extreme gerrymander of Virginias districts, stretching half a dozen of them from Fairfax and Arlington out into the Shenandoah Valley and down into central Virginia. Representative Cline says gerrymandering is wrong regardless of which party is responsible and argued the decision should be left to voters rather than politicians. Its in our constitution that we have nonpartisan redistricting. We took it out of the hands of the politicians and gave it back to the people. So, we should continue that process to reject this effort to gerrymander on April 21st and continue the nonpartisan redistricting. Cline predicted voters would oppose the map once they understand how it splits regions such as the Shenandoah and Roanoke valleys. Advertisement Advertisement Theyre going to be very disappointed in this effort to cancel out rural voices, he said. It is an extreme gerrymander, and I think the voters will see it that way. Addressing speculation about future political matchups, he said he expects to continue running in his current district and does not anticipate facing another incumbent if the referendum is rejected or if court rulings stand. Cline dismissed potential Democratic challengers as, They dont represent the values of the Roanoke Valley, the common-sense conservative perspective of this part of Virginia. When asked about the push for Virginia to join the compact that would essentially abolish the electoral vote and just have the popular vote decide the presidential election, Cline says any changes should be left to the voters. I think that the current constitutional system works where if you win the state popular vote, you get the electoral votes. To try and say that if you get some votes in some part of the state that you should get an extra electoral vote, I would question whether that would be something that we should do. I think that, but ultimately its left up to the voters. Advertisement Advertisement President Trump recently signed Clines legislation for $17 million to widen Interstate 81 into three lanes. He says I-81 is the economic backbone to the region. Its halfway up the East Coast, and so its a great place for businesses to come, but theyre not going to come here if its a dangerous, congested highway. So, adding that third lane all the way from Bristol to Winchester has been a goal of mine for many years of working with the state. Cline says he has deep ties to the region and looks forward to ongoing representation of the area in Congress. The full interview is below. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. Veteran GOP operative Karl Rove says Republicans should worry about losing the Senate in November midterms and they need to focus on their messaging about the economy. During an appearance on The Journal Editorial Report on Fox News on Saturday, Rove pointed to a series of close Senate races he said could spell trouble for maintaining the Republican majority. Maine is critical to us. The re-election of Susan Collins, she won by nine points while Trump was losing the state by nine, Rove, 75, said. Think about that: nearly one out of every five Maine voters six years ago voted for the Democrat for president and the Republican for the U.S. Senate. Rove is a veteran Republican strategist who served as the deputy chief of staff under the George W. Bush administration. / Paul Morigi / Paul Morigi/Getty Images for The Atlantic Thats really unusual. Thats going to be a tough race, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Rove then turned to North Carolina, which he said would be another tough race, with Sen. Thom Tillis retiring. Though nice guy Michael Whatley is running on the Republican side, Rove said, former two-term Democratic governor Roy Cooper is an early favorite, currently beating Whatley in every poll on The New York Times poll tracker. GOP Senate hopeful for North Carolina, Michael Whatley, has a slim chance of winning against former two-term governor Roy Cooper, polls suggest. / Tasos Katopodis / Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images Not going to be an easy race, Rove said. The former deputy chief of staff under the George W. Bush administration said Michigan could be an opportunity, but that Georgia and Alaska would be difficult. He added that Texas could be easy if they run longtime GOP incumbent John Cornyn, but if they have a guy whos got all kinds of problems, including three girlfriends, Ken Paxton, the attorney general, it could be a real mess. Advertisement Advertisement A new survey from the University of Houston suggests that the scandal-laden Paxton leads Cornyn in the Republican primary by seven points. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has been impeached and suspended from office over a series of controversies, including allegations of securities fraud, withholding of Jan. 6 records, and bribery. / Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap / Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images So yes, the Republicans cannot take the Senate for granted; theyve got to worry about it, Rove concluded. And again, the economic messaging cannot only be from the White House. The Republican candidates themselves, whether theyre in office or trying to get in office, have to have a concerted attention to this, and they have to have the right messaging and the right attitude. Trump's approval rating has tanked throughout his second administration. / Alex Wong/Getty Images Earlier in the Fox News spot, Rove also criticized Trump for over-promising and under-delivering, arguing that the president needs to do the opposite to win back Americans favor. Advertisement Advertisement The latest New York Times/Siena University poll shows the presidents approval rating at 41 percent and disapproval at 55 percent. Insiders told Axios on Friday that Republicans are freaking out over the midterms, as private surveys have predicted much more competitive races in conservative-leaning states than anticipated. A year ago, I would have told you we were almost guaranteed to win the Senate, one strategist told the outlet. Today, I would have to tell you its far less certain. Scientists are using underwater listening devices to track how whale travel patterns are shifting along Australia's coastline, reported About Regional. What's happening? Researchers from Griffith University have placed hydrophones at several spots along Australia's eastern coast, from Cairns in the tropics down to Batemans Bay. These underwater microphones collect data for roughly half a year. They pick up humpback vocalizations and other ocean sounds before nearby diving businesses collect the equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Olaf Meynecke, who heads the university's Whales and Climate Program, said the recordings show that humpback whales are altering when and where they travel. The mammals appear to be starting their trips earlier with polar ice shrinking. More are staying in cooler southern waters rather than heading north. "There is definitely a bit of an increase in presence, even in August, but there's still a clear, distinct difference between the northern and southern migration," Dr. Meynecke noted. "We haven't got that on the South Coast; it just has whales all the time." Why are changing whale migrations concerning? When large marine animals change their movement patterns, it often signals broader shifts in ocean conditions. Dr. Meynecke said the team cannot monitor whales by sight over extended periods. That means researchers frequently overlook subtle shifts in how the animals cope with a warming planet. Advertisement Advertisement The recovering humpback population may explain part of this change. "Now, when there's more whales, more can stay behind, save that energy and wait for the breeders to come back during the southern migration," explained Dr. Meynecke. While researchers have said more data is needed before drawing firm conclusions, they suspect several overlapping reasons, including warming waters and population recovery. Tracking these shifts helps scientists understand how marine life is responding to changing ocean conditions worldwide. What can I do to help protect whales? Citizen science programs like this one, where diving businesses help deploy and collect monitoring equipment, are improving how researchers track marine life. Advertisement Advertisement You can support similar efforts by volunteering with ocean research organizations or donating to marine conservation groups. Reducing your carbon footprint helps address the underlying cause of warming oceans. Switch to renewable energy for your home, and cut back on air travel when possible. Support businesses that are committed to cutting their environmental impact. Contact your elected officials and voice your support for policies that protect marine habitats and address rising ocean temperatures. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. The Rev. Reginald Blow, 71, the first Black president of the Wichita Falls ISD School Board, died Sunday. In addition to serving as a WFISD trustee, Blow was a community activist, a minister at New Hope Church in Wichita Falls and the publisher of a newspaper, the North Texas Journal. WFISD officials confirmed the death of the former longtime member of the School Board. Blow was elected to the WFISD School Board in 1999, according to a July 28, 2016, article in the Times Record News. He became the districts first Black school board president in 2010. He opted to not run for another term in 2016 after 17 years on the panel. Advertisement Advertisement Robert M. Castle, retired pastor at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, said he and Blow grew up in the neighborhoods of Wichita Falls. "He was very sincere. He never gave up on his church," Castle said. "He was very actively involved in the social efforts of our community, and I admired him for that." Reginald Blow, former Wichita Falls ISD trustee and the first Black president of the WFISD School Board, speaks during the public comment section at a School Board meeting March 10, 2022. Wichitan Bob Payton, a former trustee, recalled serving with Blow on the School Board. "Rev. Blow was a great representative for the School Board," Payton said. "He understood the team concept of working with the other members to ensure that the right outcomes came along." The city of Wichita Falls extended condolences to Blow's family and friends, noting he was an advocate for multiple non-profit organizations, according to a media release Monday from the city. He also worked intermittently as a part-time city bus driver for a decade, highlighting Blow's long-standing support for public transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Today, our city mourns the loss of a truly remarkable community leader," Wichita Falls Mayor Tim Short said in the media release. "The compassion, dedication and unwavering commitment to others shaped not only programs and policies, but lives. We are better because of his service, and his legacy will continue to guide us." Blow told the Times Record News in 2016 he started attending school board meetings when he was in eighth grade. "I would ride my bicycle down there and watch the school board meetings," he said in the TRN article. "I was interested in the process." Blow said he especially was captivated when the federal government had to step in to push the district to fully integrate its schools something that didn't happen until the 1990s. Advertisement Advertisement Blow said what he has been most proud of is seeing the district distinguish itself through such programs as the college-minded Academic Success Program, which resulted in Wichita Falls ISD students attending Ivy League schools. "We have established the fact that they can go to any school from Harvard to Midwestern State (University) or Vernon College, and succeed," he said. Blow made an unsuccessful bid for the Wichita Falls City Council in 1977 when he was 22 years old. in his first bid for the School Board in 1994, he lost by a slim margin of eight votes. More: MSU Texas students, staff point out the benefits of volunteering Advertisement Advertisement More: Voter guides available for March 3 Texas primaries Blow had faced controversy in his later years on the School Board over questions of residency in the district and attendance of meetings. He said in the 2016 TRN article that did not factor in to his decision to leave the board. As publisher of the North Texas Journal, Blow concentrated on "good news" about Black people, according to a Feb. 10, 1990, article in the Times Record News. He said the newspaper was a "one-man" show in which he sold advertising, conducted interviews and delivered newspapers. (This story was updated to add new information.) This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Rev. Reginald Blow, first Black WFISD school board president, dies BBC News Persian has verified the identities of more than 200 of the thousands of people killed during Iran's brutal crackdown on the recent widespread protests. The project has scoured social media, verified online footage and used eyewitness accounts to build up a chronicle of how and when the protesters were killed, as well as some details about their lives. Many of these accounts were provided to the BBC by sources close to the victims and were cross-checked against data from human rights organisations. Advertisement Advertisement Since the unrest began in late December, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has confirmed the deaths of 6,872 protesters, including more than 150 children. 'Side by side' Mansoureh Heydari and her husband, Behrouz Mansouri were shot dead by security forces on 8 January, a family friend told the BBC [BBC] Iranian authorities acknowledge that at least 3,000 people were killed, but claim some were members of the security forces. Pictures of and information about victims identified by BBC News Persian can be seen in this page on the BBC News Persian site (text in Persian). Among those killed were Mansoureh Heydari and her husband, Behrouz Mansouri. A family friend told BBC News Persian that the couple had joined the protests in Bushehr, in south-west Iran, when both were shot dead by security forces on 8 January. Advertisement Advertisement The security forces had opened fire on protesters gathered outside a mosque, they said. Behrouz was struck in the head and fatally wounded. Mansoureh, who had initially been running away, returned to her husband but was later shot as well. The couple died side by side in the street, leaving behind two children aged eight and 10. Their bodies were returned by security forces four days later and they were buried next to each other. A close relative said the family were "proud" that the couple had "died for their homeland" but added that they now live in fear under intense security pressure. 'Dad, I'm burning' Many of the faces featured in the project are young men and women, mostly in their late teens to early 30s. Advertisement Advertisement One 17-year-old art student, Ghazal Damarcheli, was shot outside her family home in the city of Karaj, west of Tehran, on 9 January. Ghazal Damarcheli's family say the security forces did not allow them to bury her nearby [BBC] A source close to the family told BBC News Persian that even after her death, the family faced pressure, as security forces refused to allow them to bury her nearby. Her remains were instead interred in a remote cemetery, far from the family home. That same night, 28-year-old biotechnology student Negin Ghadimi was also killed. Negin Ghadimi died in her father's arms, a family friend told the BBC [BBC] Despite her father's pleas for her to stay at home, she joined protesters on the streets of Tonekabon, about 200km (125 miles) north of Tehran. Advertisement Advertisement Security forces opened fire on the crowd, and she was hit in the side, a source close to the family said. She fell into her father's arms and told him as she lay dying: "Dad, I'm burning." Ongoing project Thousands of people gathered on the streets of Tehran during demonstrations held in early January [Getty Images] The findings for this project were produced through multiple steps and interviews with sources inside Iran, many of whose names cannot be disclosed for safety reasons. After examining social media accounts and online activity to establish each person's identity and involvement in the protests, the BBC team cross-checked the circumstances around their deaths against open-source data from inside Iran. Analysing footage of funerals and images of memorials provided key details, such as timing, location and circumstances of death. Advertisement Advertisement Individuals were also identified in footage from morgues, including the Kahrizak Forensic Medical Centre, to where many bodies from Tehran and surrounding areas were transferred. Footage of anti-government protests became less after the government cut off internet, mobile and landline access in early January [Getty Images] The work became especially difficult at the height of the protests on 8 January, when Iran's government cut off internet, mobile phone and landline access for nearly three weeks. But by piecing together information from inside the country via Starlink, the satellite network owned by Elon Musk, and relying on eyewitness accounts from Iranians who travelled to the borders to pick up neighbouring signals, BBC News Persian was able to start verifying the reports of protesters' deaths. The BBC Visual Journalism team has created an interactive "face wall" for the BBC News Persian website, where readers can explore the profiles of victims identified through the research by clicking on each photograph. The project is ongoing, and the team aims to add further names and stories as verification continues. A legal challenge to a rezoning that allows warehouses on a property along Route 10 and Freemansville Road in Cumru Township is headed back to Berks County Court for a new trial. In a ruling Feb. 2, the state Commonwealth Court reversed a previous decision by the Berks court and sent the case back to Berks for a trial on the merits of the challenge to the rezoning. The 171-acre plot was rezoned in 2018 to all warehouses and other developments. Advertisement Advertisement Mail Shark, a marketing company off Route 625, bought the site in 2018 with plans to build a distribution center, but those plans fell through. Another developer, Northpoint LLC, Riverside, Mo., had plans for a 739,000-square-foot warehouse at the property, but those plans were withdrawn in August. The 2018 rezoning, along with Northpoints plans for a warehouse on the site, was challenged in 2022 by Penske, headquartered nearby on Route 10, and residents of the Flying Hills development, which borders the plot. The group and Penske argued that changing the plots zoning from rural to industrial creates traffic, safety and environmental concerns. Advertisement Advertisement They claimed the change amounted to spot zoning, or illegally singling out one property for different treatment. In 2023, the Cumru Township Zoning Hearing Board upheld the rezoning. Since then, the case has proceeded through county and state courts on appeals from the Penske group and most recently Route 10 Realty LLC, which owns the property. In a Feb. 2 order, Judge Renee Cohn Jubelirer reversed the Berks court ruling that the Cumru zoning board violated Pennsylvanias municipal code, the state Sunshine Act and Cumrus own rules by not sufficiently allowing for public participation. Route 10 Realty argued that the county court erred in those assertions. Advertisement Advertisement Cohn Jubelirer agreed with Route 10 Realtys claims that Penske and the group waived their ability to challenge the sufficiency of a public notice on the zoning hearing. Cohn Jubelirer also agreed that Penske and the group didnt file a Sunshine Act objection within the legally required 30-day window after an alleged violation occurs. In addition, she agreed with Route 10 Realtys claim that the zoning hearing board did not illegally prevent public comment, arguing that the zoning hearing board was not required to take separate public comments, only to give sufficient notice of a chance to participate in the hearing. That notice was given, according to Cohn Jubelirer, but she said no one attending the hearing as a member of the public made a legally substantial effort to participate. Advertisement Advertisement Cohn Jubelirer concluded that the Berks court erred in its finding and remanded the case back for a trial on the merits of the Penske groups appeal. Brian Johnson, owner of Mail Shark and Route 10 Realty, LLC, declined to comment. Watch this special report by ITV News Global Security Editor Rohit Kachroo as he is reunited with Palestinians who were airlifted to Qatar after being seriously injured in Iraeli airstrikes on Gaza When Israa Almaty arrives alone for her interview, we are surprised - a reaction that reveals how quickly we had decided what her future would look like. The last time we met her, two years ago, she was being wheeled from a Qatari military aircraft after an overnight evacuation from the border between Gaza and Egypt. Advertisement Advertisement Doctors warned her then that she had almost certainly been irreparably blinded by an Israeli military attack weeks earlier. They were wrong. Today, she walks in unaided. No walking stick. No guide. The future that once seemed settled never took hold, thanks to the treatment she has received since she arrived in Qatar. Israa Almaty was being wheeled onto a Qatari aircraft when we last saw her two years ago. Credit: ITV News When Israa was evacuated from the Gaza border, alongside thirty other wounded Palestinians, she was told her sight would almost certainly never return. I just want to feel alive again, she said then, her voice barely audible over the beeping of medical monitors and the engines of the aircraft. I intend to get back to life again and to continue my study. Advertisement Advertisement I am one year away from graduation, she says. I got a first-class honours degree. She studied architecture. She wants to finish. Now, with her sight steadily improving, she is planning her return to the lecture theatre. But there is something she has not revealed until now. The attack that nearly took her sight was not the first Israeli strike she survived. She shares this only because we have brought with us a file of evidence records gathered during our investigation into Israeli Defence Forces attacks inside the Gaza Strip. One incident, months before the one in which her eyes were badly damaged, stood out. The list of those killed included victims who shared her surname. Advertisement Advertisement When I read out the first name, she stops me. My father, she says. I showed Israa more records on my phone, she recognises every name. Credit: ITV News I show her more records on my phone. She leans forward, pulling the handset close close enough to read. She recognises every name. Israa chose to keep this loss to herself. Her reasoning is simple: in Gaza, her grief was not unique. There were too many stories like hers. But the attack, two weeks after 7 October, killed seven members of her family. Her parents, Ramadan and Intisar. Her brother Ahmed, his wife Rawan, and their son Ayman. Her sister Iman and her son Yahya. Israa survived by pulling herself from the rubble. Everything was dark. I was terrified and alone, she says. Advertisement Advertisement The ceiling had collapsed onto my shoulder. I was saying my final prayers because I saw no hope. She pauses, then continues. I was trapped under the rubble but managed to escape on my own. God left a small opening - a hatch - that I crawled through. Since then, I believe that in every hardship there is a hatch for survival. She was taken to hospital in Gaza. Thats where I saw my mothers body, wrapped in a white shroud, she says. When I saw my father, his legs were crushed. His head was split in half. Her parents were buried together, in a single grave. After our interview, Israa walks back home - again, unguided. As she does, a convoy of buses pulls up outside the estate. Advertisement Advertisement Schoolchildren spill out onto the pavement from the apartments, ready to board them. It is a familiar sight, but the mood is not. Here, there is energy and excitement. A kind of relief. They are excited to be studying in peace - to sit exams without having to calculate the risk of the journey to school itself. Abdullah Akkilah with his father Yousef. Credit: ITV News The Palestinian School in Doha is a modern building with the atmosphere of an older institution. Among the students taking their seats in the hushed exam hall is 15-year-old Abdullah Akkilah. It is a relief to see how rapid his recovery has been. On the February 2024 evacuation flight, Abdullah, was identified as requiring the most urgent treatment. He had been badly burned, suffered severe facial injuries, and lost several fingers in an attack near the Palestine Stadium in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement After the plane touched down, medics made the difficult decision to stretcher him off before the others. Abdullahs father, Yousef, survived and was eventually brought to Qatar - in part because of the attention generated by ITV News reporting on his case. Today, he shares an apartment with his son. Abdullah is one of the people we most wanted to speak to. When we first met him, he was in need of urgent care. Credit: ITV News When we visit them both at home, Yousef is planning Abdullahs meals and enforcing a strict routine designed to anchor a life that nearly slipped away. Homework is checked. Bedtimes are fixed. The small disciplines of ordinary life are treated as something fragile. Abdullah is confident that he performed well in his English exam and says his reason for working so hard is simple: to make my father proud. Advertisement Advertisement One of his brothers did not make it out of Gaza. Mohammed was not injured and, because of his age, was not permitted to leave Gaza. Subscribe free to our weekly newsletter for exclusive and original coverage from ITV News. Direct to your inbox every Friday morning. He remains there as the war grinds on. The situation is extremely difficult on every level, Abdullah says. Its deteriorating he says. I miss my brother so much. They speak once or twice every day - sometimes before dawn, sometimes late at night - calls shaped by poor signal and the fear of sudden silence. From Doha, Abdullah hears about Gaza in fragments: shortages, strikes, waiting. Advertisement Advertisement The ceasefire is something we only hear about in the news, Mohammed says. In reality, the war is still ongoing. Abdullah - like many of the other evacuees - hopes one day to have the choice to return to a safe and free Gaza. He cannot be certain what choice he would make. Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know... Normunds Mezviets, Director General of the Latvian State Security Service, has revealed that Russia is attempting to recruit individuals with criminal backgrounds to conduct sabotage operations. Source: Delfi, a Baltic states news website, citing Mezviets, as reported by European Pravda Details: Mezviets said that Russian intelligence primarily targets military facilities and critical infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement "Several incidents occurred in our country last year which we are currently investigating and we are not ruling out links to tasks assigned by Russian intelligence. None of these incidents caused significant harm to Latvia's national security," he said. He also noted that a group was uncovered last year that had set fire to premises belonging to a company involved in a defence project in 2023. The same group planned to target lorries with Ukrainian plates at a critical infrastructure site. They had also compiled a list of potential sabotage targets, including memorials, power facilities, warehouses storing flammable goods and military sites. According to Mezviets, Russia recruits people connected to criminal networks individuals with prior convictions and a history of illegal activity. Advertisement Advertisement "These people also have certain criminal corporate links, if you will. They have a wide network of contacts with similar interests. Recruiting one such person provides extensive opportunities to rely on them and involve others they know in similar activities," he added. Former prisoners and drug users are involved in gathering intelligence and organising sabotage for money, though some provide information voluntarily for ideological reasons. As of now, four individuals are in custody following arrests earlier this year. Three are Latvian citizens and one does not have Latvian citizenship. These four are suspected of espionage. The State Security Service continues to monitor several others suspected of similar activities, so Mezviets does not rule out further arrests in the future. Advertisement Advertisement "For several years now, we have observed Russia making fairly desperate attempts to establish new groups of young, educated leaders who could later head so-called compatriot organisations and coordinate Russian-speaking communities to achieve Russian objectives," he noted. Background: The Latvian State Security Service recently warned that Russia's level of aggression will remain high this year, with a tendency to escalate. Meanwhile, the Latvian Constitution Protection Bureau posted a report stating that Russia does not currently pose a direct military threat to Latvia, but there are signs of potential long-term plans. Commenting on the report, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics said there is no need for additional special security measures in Latvia. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Dan Peleschuk KYIV, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Russian forces are trying to press forward around the city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, Kyiv's military said on Monday, hoping to conclude a months-long campaign to seize the strategic hub as Moscow seeks to capture the whole of the Donetsk region. Ukraine has struggled to halt slow Russian advances around Pokrovsk and elsewhere along the 1,200-km (746-mile) front line while it comes under U.S. pressure to reach a peace deal to end the four-year war in ongoing talks. Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv's General Staff said on Monday its forces still held the northern part of Pokrovsk, a city with a pre-war population of 60,000, and were also defending the smaller city of Myrnohrad nearby. Pokrovsk, a railway nexus, has been the site of fierce fighting since last year. Its fall would mark Russia's biggest battlefield victory since it seized the eastern city of Avdiivka in early 2024. Moscow claimed late last year to have captured Pokrovsk, which Kyiv denied. Analysts say Russia has captured only about 1.3% of Ukrainian territory since early 2023, though its aerial bombardments have inflicted heavy damage on the national power network in recent months. Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's 7th Rapid Response Corps, which oversees defences in the area, said Russia was "pressing in the Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad area" by exploiting "insufficient" Ukrainian air defences, using guided bombs and controlling heights and flanks with their greater manpower. Ukrainian open-source researchers DeepState said Russian infantry was moving into the northern part of Pokrovsk and attempting to push further toward the nearby village of Hryshyne. The group, whose map showed nearly all of Pokrovsk and much of Myrnohrad to be under Russian control, described the current fighting as "the last battles" for the two cities. 'A MATTER OF YEARS' Advertisement Advertisement Nearly four years after its full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Russia occupies almost a fifth of Ukraine's territory, including the Crimean Peninsula and parts of eastern Ukraine occupied before the war. Russia is demanding that Ukraine relinquish the remaining 20% of the industrialised Donetsk region that it has been unable to conquer, something Kyiv refuses to do. Moscow has pledged to keep fighting until it achieves its war aims and says the issue of territory is of "fundamental importance" to ongoing peace talks brokered by the United States. Polls show that a majority of Ukrainians say it would be unacceptable to cede the rest of Donetsk, which includes the heavily defended, so-called "fortress cities" of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, in exchange for peace. Advertisement Advertisement "[E]ven under these conditions, the capture of the entire Donetsk region remains a matter of years for Russia," the 7th Rapid Response Corps said on X. "Fighting for the SlovianskKramatorsk agglomeration could last up to three years and come at the cost of massive losses for the invading forces." (Additional reporting by Anna Pruchnicka; Writing by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Daniel Flynn and Gareth Jones) Norways Svalbard fiber optic cables a pair carrying vital Arctic satellite data from SvalSat, the worlds largest commercial ground station thread through waters dangerously close to Russias reach. The Kremlin's Nagurskoye air base on Franz Josef Land is just 260 kilometers (161 miles) from Svalbards shores. These cables transmit satellite signals and sensitive data that European governments, research institutions, and militaries rely on, including infrastructure bolstering Ukraines defense via allied satellite networks. Advertisement Advertisement As U.S. seizures of Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Caribbean and North Atlantic grab headlines, experts warn that Moscows ability to sabotage cables and jam navigation systems in the Arctic is growing, threatening European stability. Russian-traced incidents According to recent maritime data, over 20 subsea cables in the Baltic and Arctic regions were damaged between late 2024 and early 2026 a sharp increase in incidents compared to previous years. The latest incident took place on New Year's Eve when Finnish police detained a vessel sailing from Russia, suspected of damaging an undersea telecom cable running from Helsinki to Estonia. On Jan. 12, Finland released the vessel and all but one crew member (with others reportedly from Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan) but didn't label it Russian sabotage, leaving attribution unspoken despite the red flags. A vessel of the Finnish Coast Guard keeps watch on the oil tanker Eagle S anchored near the Kilpilahti port in Porvoo, Finland, on Dec. 30, 2024. (Jussi Nukari / Lehtikuva / AFP via Getty Images) "The way in which Moscow has manifested these incidents is to try to ensure that it was just an accident or make it very difficult to attribute even if it seems like it was intentional," Benjamin L. Schmitt, senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania's Kleinman Center for Energy Policy and Perry World House, told the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement "That's why you've seen in the growing number of subsea cable cuts, whether they be telecommunications cables, electricity interconnectors, or gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea, there still hasn't been an official attribution in any of these cases to a state that was behind these incidents," Schmitt said. Russia also often pairs these sabotage acts with disinformation campaigns, deflecting blame in multiple directions to bewilder the public, he added. "I think that Russia tries to make the narrative much more complex than what it is, which is in many of these cases pretty clear you have Russian-connected (ships) with Russian-connected crews that are doing something that is outside of the norm of normal commercial maritime operations to sabotage subsea infrastructure." State operators Much of the public conversation still treats these incidents as the work of careless crews or rogue commercial actors, even though the pattern and ship links point otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement But Sergey Sukhankin, a Russia expert and senior fellow with the Jamestown Foundation, explains that unlike in Ukraine or Syria, Russia does not rely on what he describes as "shadowy mercenaries" in these types of operations. A soldier of the Jaeger Battalion GSV of the Norwegian Armed Forces is pictured on her snow scooter through a broken window during a demonstration of border crossing by Swedish and Finnish troops as part of the NATO Nordic Response 24 military exercise near the Kivilompolo border crossing between Finland and Norway, on March 9, 2024. (Jonathan Nackstrand / AFP via Getty Images) "It is Russias regular security apparatus the Defense Ministry and the (Russian Federal Security Service) FSB that is driving subsea sabotage and electronic warfare in the Arctic," Sukhankin told the Kyiv Independent. Sukhankin warns that Russia may mask defense or intelligence personnel as scientists or civilian specialists if it sees an opportunity, particularly against European NATO members rather than the United States. Washington has shown now in its global pursuit of Russias shadow fleet that it is prepared to respond forcefully, Sukhankin argues, while European governments have often struggled to find legal or political grounds for decisive action. Advertisement Advertisement This, in turn, offers more clues as to how and where Moscow may choose to provoke in the Arctic. Three theatres To understand this critical front and why it matters to Ukraine one should think of the Arctic as three overlapping theaters: The Russian Arctic, is a resourcerich region where Moscow turns to Chinese and BRICS partners for capital and technology, using Arctic oil, gas, and the Northern Sea Route to sustain its war economy. Sukhankin notes that Moscow is actively recruiting non-Western partners to bypass the Arctic Council, the primary international body (consisting of the eight nations with Arctic territory) that has sidelined Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin in the village of Belokamenka, Murmansk region, Russia, on July 20, 2023. (Konstantin Zavrazhin / Sputnik / AFP via Getty Images) However, within the BRICS, China is the only member with the capital and strategic ambition in the Arctic which Russia welcomes economically but eyes warily as a military partner. Advertisement Advertisement The North American Arctic, is a vulnerable flank where the U.S. and Canada struggle to modernize defenses and match Russian and Chinese dualuse infrastructure and shipping investments. North Americans understand the gravity of threats pretty well, Sukhankin says, and are actively planning responses. Lastly, the European Arctic northern territories of Denmark (including Greenland and Faroes Islands), Iceland, and Norway is currently Russia's most-probed front. "If there is to be escalation, it will take place in the European Arctic as the North American Arctic is quite far from Russia and hasn't experienced the same degree of hybrid threats," Gabriella Gricius, research fellow at the North American and Arctic Defense and Security Network told the Kyiv Independent. "We are seeing increasing hybrid attacks critical infrastructure sabotage, disinformation, operation of the shadow fleet, espionage attempts, cyber attacks in differing areas across the European Arctic," Gricius says. A screen grab taken from a video released by the Russian Defense Ministry shows Russian Tu-95MS strategic bombers and Chinese H-6K strategic bombers conducting joint patrols over the Chukchi Sea, the Bering Sea, and the northern Pacific Ocean on July 25, 2024. (Russian Defense Ministry / Anadolu via Getty Images) "It does not serve Russian interests to escalate (beyond hybrid attacks) in the Arctic as it sees the region as key to its national security vis-a-vis oil and gas extraction and shipping," Gricius continues. Advertisement Advertisement "This is exactly why hybrid attacks are a good strategy for Russia right now as they allow it to cause trouble in the Nordics without taking the blame." Indigenous cost Russias Arctic strategy carries another darker layer environmental lawlessness. Moscow suspended Arctic Council funding in 2024 and fully withdrew from the Barents Euro-Arctic Council in 2023 after activities stalled post-Ukraine invasion, paralyzing joint environmental monitoring, oil spill response, and indigenous protections across 40% of Arctic coastline under Russian control. Sukhankin warns that Moscow treats the ecosystem as a bargaining chip, flouting nuclear safety and indigenous rights to rush resource extraction or to support its war effort. We have facts showing Russia deliberately decimating its indigenous peoples... even ethnic Russians are not that valuable to Russians, but ethnically non-Russian peoples are even less valuable, Sukhankin says. Russian independent media outlet The New Tab reported in 2025 that despite legal deferrals, more Arctic indigenous men have gone to fight in Ukraine than the Russian average. Advertisement Advertisement Experts note that while Arctic security focus intensifies with U.S. officials increasingly naming China, and its alignment with Russia, as key threats the administration's fixation on Greenland overlooks graver risks like Sino-Russian icebreaker exercises in the North Pacific challenging U.S. dominance. Read also: A million-dollar parking fee: Canadas high-stakes battle over a stranded Russian plane Read also: End of NATO Trumps Greenland ambitions put Ukraine in a diplomatic bind Read also: Republican congressman slams Trumps Russia policy, Greenland threats Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. This photo taken on Feb. 9, 2026 shows the Israeli settlement in the West Bank city of Hebron. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua) RAMALLAH, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. Palestinian officials and residents told Xinhua that the decisions breached previous agreements and could escalate tensions, targeting the core of the conflict over land and identity and potentially marking a new phase of comprehensive Israeli control. "Restrictions on agriculture and construction could force owners to abandon their land indirectly," said Rami Nubani, a 55-year-old farmer in Nablus in the northern West Bank. "Despite this pressure, I will not sell. This land is our legacy." Nubani expressed concern that the new measures could threaten his farmland near the village of Salem, an area witnessing rapid settlement expansion. "I inherited this land from my father, and he inherited it from his father," Nubani told Xinhua. "It has been cultivated with olives and almonds for decades. The land is not just a source of livelihood, but part of our family identity." Similar concerns have been raised in Ramallah, where 40-year-old teacher Mohammed Mousa said the measures extend beyond legal and administrative changes, directly affecting daily life, agriculture, construction, and social cohesion. "These decisions affect dignity and daily life. When people feel besieged on their land, tensions rise," he said, warning that continued restrictions on construction and movement could undo what little calm exists and potentially force people to defend themselves and their land, which could provoke unrest even if no one wants it. Beyond threats to daily life, residents in Hebron in the southern West Bank also emphasized the historical and cultural significance of the city's streets and buildings, which they have viewed as central to their identity and heritage. "We will not give up our rights, even if we must defend them with all our might," said Samer al-Hashlamoun, 33, who lives near the Ibrahimi Mosque. The controversial decisions, approved Sunday by Israel's security cabinet, included the repeal of a Jordanian-era law that banned land sales to Jews, the removal of the requirement for special transaction permits, and the renewal of a state land acquisition committee that ceased operating around 20 years ago, among others. Israeli authorities claimed that those decisions would enable Jews to acquire land in the occupied territory under simpler conditions. The decisions have sparked immediate and fierce condemnation from Palestine and the international community. The Palestinian presidency on Sunday described the decisions as "illegal, null and void," saying that they constitute "the practical implementation of annexation and displacement plans." It called on the international community to intervene immediately to halt the measures, warning they could worsen regional tensions. Political analyst Ahmed Rafiq Awad told Xinhua that the decisions "drive the final nail into the coffin of the Oslo Accords," noting that Israel is moving toward direct occupation and accelerating settlement activity. On Monday, the foreign ministers of eight Arab and Muslim countries condemned in the strongest terms the "illegal" Israeli decisions aimed at entrenching settlement activity. Later, the EU and the UN also voiced condemnation over the Israeli move, calling it "another step in the wrong direction" and having "no legal validity." This photo taken on Feb. 9, 2026 shows the Israeli settlement in the West Bank city of Hebron. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 9, 2026 shows the Israeli settlement in the West Bank city of Hebron. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua) Palestinians leave with their belongings after Israeli forces forced them to evacuate their homes in the town of Arraba, south of Jenin city in the West Bank, on Feb. 9, 2026. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) A Palestinian collects belongings to leave after Israeli forces forced her to evacuate her home in the town of Arraba, south of Jenin city in the West Bank, on Feb. 9, 2026. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) Palestinians collect belongings to leave after Israeli forces forced them to evacuate their homes in the town of Arraba, south of Jenin city in the West Bank, on Feb. 9, 2026. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) Palestinians collect belongings to leave after Israeli forces forced them to evacuate their homes in the town of Arraba, south of Jenin city in the West Bank, on Feb. 9, 2026. Israel's recent decisions to deepen control over the West Bank and expand Jewish settlements there have raised broad Palestinian concerns over potential land confiscation and threats to regional stability. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) CASTLETON, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) The highest court of Vermont has dismissed an appeal to use chemicals on Lake Bomoseen, the largest freshwater lake entirely in Vermont. The Lake Bomoseen Association, which describes itself as a group of neighbors with the lakes wellbeing in mind, had wanted to chemically treat the lake to rid it of Eurasian watermilfoil, an invasive aquatic plant. They described their proposed treatment, ProcellaCOR, as safe and widely used, and applied for a permit in 2022. However, the Lake Bomoseen Environmental Alliance opposed their attempt to use ProcellaCOR and argued that chemical treatment should only be used as a last resort to address significant ecological harm. Advertisement Advertisement Lake Champlain parasite treatment resumes Vermont environmental regulators agreed with the latter group and denied the permit in 2024. Following appeals, the Vermont Supreme Court provided the final denial last week. According to Jon Groveman at the Vermont Natural Resources Council, the states environmental laws need to be strengthened to better protect the environment. Chemical treatments may work in aquarium settings and mimic small-scale, artificial systems but are not something we want to experiment with in our ecologically complex, natural lake systems. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. Several Detroit mothers who will benefit from Rx Kids sit on stage on Feb. 9 at the MSU Detroit Center during a press conference announcing the expansion of the cash assistance program. | Photo by Martin Slagter/Michigan Advance Baby love took on some added meaning in Motown with the announcement that enrollment in a state cash assistance program for mothers and babies is officially open to Detroit mothers, with plans to expand it to the entire Upper Peninsula starting next month. The expansion of Michigan State Universitys Rx Kids program was unveiled Monday during a press conference at the MSU Detroit Center, with Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield joined by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to make the announcement. An estimated 8,000 babies born in Detroit every year will now be eligible for cash payments, making it the largest city in the nation to participate in the program that supports mothers and babies during the early stages of pregnancy. Advertisement Advertisement Sheffield said it was an honor to work with Rx Kids to deliver on her first priorityas mayor to invest in Detroits babies, so that they can have the best possible start. Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield talks about the expansion of Rx Kids cash assistance for Detroit babies and mothers during a press conference on Feb. 9 at the MSU Detroit Center. | Photo by Martin Slagter/Michigan Advance I have always believed that how we care for our children reflects who we are as a city and who we are as a community, Sheffield said. Im extremely proud to bring a program that puts our families, our babies at the very center of how we govern and how we lead. Because we all know that when we lift up our families, we invest in the long-term health, stability and success of our city. Launched in Flint in 2024, Rx Kids has expanded to 29 Michigan communities, including Kalamazoo, Dearborn, Pontiac, Saginaw, Inkster and Ypsilanti with direct cash support. To date, Rx Kids has prescribed $23.68 million in cash payments to Michigan mothers, with 5,734 families enrolled and 4,298 babies benefitting from the cash assistance. Rx Kids will support Detroit moms and babies during the early stages of pregnancy by providing families with $1,500 prenatally and then $500 a month for six months to prevent financial burden and improve health. All expectant mothers must be at least 16 weeks pregnant at the time of enrollment or have an infant born on or after January 1, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Detroit mother Rakiah Reives, who had a child born at the beginning of 2026, said she was elated to be eligible for the cash assistance program after reading about its impact in other communities. Reives said she even became an advocate for Rx Kids before she had benefitted from the program, noting that its impact cant be understated when considering all of the expenses that come with being a young mother. Now that I am an Rx Kids mother, I can say that the program is helping me cover all the things that I couldnt cover on my own, just literally a couple of weeks ago, Reives said. Along with Rx Kids expansion into Detroit, Whitmer announced Monday that the program also is growing north of the Mackinac Bridge with eligibility expanding to all 15 Upper Peninsula counties in March. Advertisement Advertisement Whitmer said the expansion of Rx Kids underscores Michigans continued commitment to scaling baby-first policies in both urban and rural communities. Whether theyre deep in Lions country or they live closer to Lambeau Field, they will get to benefit from this, Whitmer said. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks about the impact of Rx Kids on Feb. 9 at the MSU Detroit Center. | Photo by Martin Slagter/Michigan Advance In places where Rx Kids has been running, were already seeing better outcomes from more consistent checkups before and after birth, babies born at healthier weights and decreased NICU admissions. It helps families when they need it most, no matter what. We have to keep working to bring Rx Kids to every Michigan mom who needs it. Rx Kids is led by Michigan State University and administered by GiveDirectly. As a public-private partnership, it is funded through both public investment and philanthropic leadership. After its launch, the state invested $250 million to expand the program to additional high-need communities over the next three years. Advertisement Advertisement Rx Kids Director Dr. Mona Hanna, a pediatrician and Associate Dean of Public Health at Michigan State Universitys College of Human Medicine, said the impact of the program can be felt by families who are facing financial stress, leading to housing instability, hunger and health complications with their young children. Rx Kids is not charity, it is medicine, Hanna said. This is what it looks like when we boldly improve health. Its not a pill, its prevention. We give families a little bit of breathing room during pregnancy and infancy, when money is the tightest. Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Schools closed as teachers in San Francisco began a strike Monday after struggling to come to an agreement with the school district over pay and health care costs. It's the first time in 50 years that the district has seen a teacher strike. It affects 50,000 students. The United Educators of San Francisco and the San Francisco Unified School District spent the weekend working toward an agreement, which has been negotiated for almost a year. The union represents about 6,000 educators, counselors and nurses. Advertisement Advertisement Another union that represents 253 administrators and principals has also launched a sympathy strike. "The affordability crisis for those of us devoted to San Francisco's next generation is real," Cassondra Curiel, the president of United Educators of San Francisco, said in a statement to The New York Times. "Enough is enough." SFUSD spokesperson Laura Dudnick said of the weekend negotiations, "We were able to make progress in a number of areas." The last teachers' strike in the city lasted seven weeks in 1979. There is no end date set for this strike. Health care costs are at the forefront of the strike. The district pays for individual coverage, but teachers with families pay about $1,200 a month, which will soon increase to about $1,500 per month, the union said. And San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement "Some of us only ever see half of our paychecks after health care premiums are taken out. This is not acceptable or sustainable," Teanna Tillery, a member of the union's bargaining team, said at a press briefing last week, The Times reported. The union wants coverage paid at 100% and a 9% to 14% raise over two years. The district's latest proposal is a 6% raise over two years and paying for a large portion of family premiums for three years, using funds from a local tax. After three years, it would either stop paying or find the funding. "This is a win-win proposal," District Superintendent Maria Su said at a press conference Friday, The Times reported. "I know this situation is distressing for families and students." Saturday evening, the district offered $24,000 health benefits allowance and a 6% raise, but with cuts in other areas, KTVU reported. Advertisement Advertisement "We will not sell out our students or our members to get a wage increase when we know the district has the money to do that," Curiel said. "We don't have unlimited money and have to make difficult choices," Dudnick said. School funding in California is at a record high per student, but schools have struggled as fewer students are enrolled. Higher absenteeism since the pandemic has caused funding issues because schools get funds based on attendance. "Even though California's legislature and governor have provided a lot of funding to our schools, it's just proving to not be enough," said Tony Thurmond, state superintendent of public instruction. Advertisement Advertisement Ryan Alias, a high school English teacher, told The Times that he pays $1,500 per month for health insurance for his wife and two daughters. "This is a life-changing amount of money," Alias said. "For my family and many of us, this is a stability issue for this district. We need to know we're comfortable putting down roots in this district and growing our skills here and continuing to be part of the community." Thousands of educators flocked to picket lines Monday as United Educators of San Francisco began its first strike since 1979. The 6,500-member union has been negotiating for nearly a year with San Francisco Unified School District, which has roughly 50,000 students. The district closed more than 100 schools on Monday as the union solidified a strike roughly a week after members approved a walkout in two rounds of voting. More than 250 principals, office clerks and custodians in two other unions also went on a sympathy strike in solidarity. Negotiations stalled because of disagreements over pay raises, health care coverage and working conditions for special education teachers. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter What this contract represents is stability for San Francisco Unified for years to come, and its commitment to us and coming to an agreement immediately will secure the schools that San Franciscans deserve, said union President Cossandra Curiel at a picket line outside Mission High School. You can expect to see strong picket lines until that agreement is achieved. Advertisement Advertisement The union is sticking to its demands for a 9% and 14% pay raise for teachers and paraprofessionals, respectively, over the two-year contract. The current starting base salary for a teacher with a bachelors degree is $73,689. The paraprofessional hourly rate is $31.52. Union officials are also asking for 100% health care coverage, along with caseload limits and more time for administrative tasks for special education staff. Watch This Educator Connects STEM With Students Lives After multiple hours-long bargaining sessions this weekend, the district responded with a 6% raise over two years. It proposed implementing the unions demand for a new special education workload model as a pilot program at five schools through June 2028. Curiel said Monday that district officials offered 75% health coverage. Advertisement Advertisement San Francisco Unified officials have said a $102 million budget deficit makes it impossible to meet the unions demands. The union said the district can cover the increased costs with its budget reserve. We understand that they are under a form of strain from the state, or thats what their excuse has been up to now, Curiel said. We see that they have a reserve of almost $400 million. We believe that todays dollars are for todays students. The district said the $400 million is not in reserves, but is already budgeted to prevent layoffs and address the deficit. Using a one-time fund balance for permanent raises creates a funding cliff, the district said in a statement. Once the one-time money runs out, the district would be forced to make even deeper cuts to classrooms and lay off more staff to cover the ongoing cost. Advertisement Advertisement San Francisco Unified does have $111 million in its reserve fund, but the district said that money is for emergencies. Superintendent Maria Su said in a statement that the districts proposal provides fiscal certainty by matching spending to available resources and keeps the district on a clear runway to exit state oversight. The state started monitoring district finances in 2024 because of projected budget deficits. Related 3,000 California Teachers, School Staffers Strike While 7 Unions Declare Impasse Let me be clear, I do not want a prolonged strike, Su said in a video Sunday night. I do not want a strike at all. Curiel said the district and union did agree on a proposal to classify schools as sanctuary spaces for immigrant students, staff and families. The policy bars federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from entering school grounds or obtaining records without a criminal judicial warrant. Staff will also receive three hours of training to enforce these policies. Advertisement Advertisement Teachers protested in front of several schools Monday morning and hosted a rally in the afternoon that featured Randi Weingarten, president of American Federation of Teachers, the nations second-largest union for educators. On the picket line in front of Mission High School, social studies teacher Cindy Castillo said shes striking to improve school stability. Stability means that we can retain our educators of color and our students and families of color. It means we can fully staff security, who can build relationships with our students and prevent violence and harm, she said. It means our students and families feel safe and supported. Matt Alexander, president of the San Francisco Unified school board, said he supports the strike and believes its a necessary step. I am so proud of these educators for standing up for what is right, he said. A strike for the first time in half a century takes courage. It takes sacrifice. It was not what these educators wanted, but theyre willing to do what needs to be done to create the schools our students deserve. A rapist who slashed a woman with a knife and beat her with an iron bar following an argument about money has been jailed. Bo Yang attacked the victim at her house in Burnley just after 23:00 BST on 15 April, Lancashire Police said. The 41-year-old used the knife to cut her clothes, then "savagely" beat her, tied her up and sexually assaulted her before using the knife to "slash her", police said. Advertisement Advertisement Yang, of Winn Grove, Sheffield, was found guilty of two counts of rape, sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, robbery and possession of a bladed article following a trial at Preston Crown Court and was jailed for 18 years. 'Five-hour ordeal of terror' Following the attack he took items from the victim's purse, including her bank cards and money and tried to transfer money into his bank account, police said. The force said the victim managed to run from the property when Yang had his back turned and sought help from neighbours who rang the police at 03:46 BST "bringing to an end her five-hour ordeal of terror". In a statement the victim said she suffered insomnia and nightmares, and her mental and physical health had been badly affected. Advertisement Advertisement Yang was identified as a result of CCTV and forensic inquiries, including from fingerprints recovered from the tape he had placed around the victim's face. Officers also managed to recover data from We Chat, the Chinese version of WhatsApp. Police said as soon as Yang is deemed eligible for release by the Parole Board, he will be deported. Following sentencing on Friday, Det Con Jodie Nolan said: "Yang is an extremely violent sexual predator who exposed his victim to a sustained and horrific ordeal. "I would like to again thank the jury for their guilty verdicts and the investigation team for obtaining the vital evidence which helped secure this conviction." Advertisement Advertisement Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. Related internet links (Left to right) GOP Sens. Shane Massey, Sean Bennett, Greg Hembree and Mike Reichenbach talk to reporters Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, in Senate chambers at the Statehouse in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) COLUMBIA The growing number of charter schools in South Carolina could face more scrutiny under a bill thats next on senators to-do list. The proposal, a priority for Senate leaders, comes after years of increasing concerns about a lack of oversight for charter schools, the for-profit managers some use for operations, and the sponsors that hold the schools contract, Senate Education Chairman Greg Hembree, who sponsored the bill, told the SC Daily Gazette. Advertisement Advertisement A recent report recommending more clarification and oversight from the state to prevent conflicts of interest, misspending and other issues made the problem more immediate, said Hembree, a Little River Republican. As did the closure of Limestone University, which sponsored 17 charter schools. Charter schools are intended to create a legitimate avenue for parents, teachers, and community members to take responsible risks and create new, innovative, and more flexible ways of educating all children within the public school system, according to the 1996 law that allowed their creation. What is a charter school? Charter schools are public schools, but they have more flexibility than traditional public schools and are largely autonomous. Each is governed by a school board elected by parents and employees. And each has an overseeing sponsor that holds its charter its operating contract. Advertisement Advertisement The sponsor is supposed to ensure that contract is followed. But its actual oversight ability is limited. State law initially required charter schools to be sponsored by their local school district. But with local boards often refusing to sponsor a school they couldnt control, legislators in 2006 created a statewide district to sponsor charter schools. Six years later, they added colleges to allowed authorizers. But they didnt put enough guardrails in place as the options expanded, Hembree said. The charter school system is not a baby anymore, he said Thursday as he explained the bill to senators. Its a fully grown program in South Carolina, and its going to grow some more. Advertisement Advertisement The number of charter schools in the state has exploded in recent years. In 2012, when Gov. Nikki Haley signed the law allowing colleges to become sponsors, 17,000 students attended 47 charter schools statewide. The number of schools has more than doubled since, to 111. And the number of students has increased exponentially, reaching 67,000 this school year, according to the state Department of Education. The number of students in charter schools has grown so much faster than the population in traditional public schools that the states school funding formula fell out of whack last year, requiring a budget compromise that adjusted the percentage of state dollars for different types of schools. And theres no slowdown in sight. Organizers have submitted plans with the state to open about 80 new schools in the 2027-2028 school year. Advertisement Advertisement The Charter Institute at Erskine, already the second-largest authorizer, plans to sponsor 10 more schools next school year and another 40 over the next three years. The changes proposed in the bill would put more work on the authorizers plate, but the institute is on board, said Superintendent Cameron Runyan, whos said for years that state law limits its oversight options. That program is growing, and whenever a sector grows, its maturing, Runyan said. Its important to make sure that it matures in the right manner. When Erskine College, a small private school in Due West, started authorizing schools in 2017, Hembree realized the process needed more oversight. Advertisement Advertisement With another statewide sponsor on the scene, schools in hot water with their sponsors started switching from the original Public Charter School District to Erskine to escape accountability. Five years later, schools began jumping to the newly formed Limestone Charter Association. Its a process known as hopping and shopping, Hembree said. Right away, we were like, Man, this is going to be the Wild West, Hembree said. Limestones closure last year left only Erskine and the original statewide district. But Voorhees, a private historically Black university in Denmark, has stepped up to begin sponsoring schools. Other colleges could sign up through whats now a very easy process. State law offers a monetary incentive to do so. Authorizing colleges can keep 2% of state aid to each school, which is supposed to cover administrative expenses. Advertisement Advertisement For Erskine, that 2% is expected to bring in $5.6 million total this school year, according to the charter district. The bill would restrict the movement of schools from one authorizer to another, crack down on schools that consistently underperform and put more rules in place for the people running the authorizers and the charter schools. Hembree isnt trying to target charter schools or specific authorizers, he said. His goal is to help the students, who make up about 8% of the states public school population. Theyre the ones that are the big losers in all of these shenanigans that the grown-ups get involved in, Hembree said. Advertisement Advertisement Hembree has introduced the bill every legislative session since 2022. This year, Hembree hopes the report, which looked into operations at Erskine, and the closure of Limestone University will give the legislation the momentum it needs to become law. Debate in the Senate starts Tuesday. Hembree is optimistic about the bills chances of becoming law. After all, concerns about charter schools have bubbled to the top, Hembree said. Chronically underperforming During the 2024-2025 school year, 19 of the 31 schools in the state to receive the lowest possible rating of unsatisfactory on their annual state report cards were charter schools. Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Charter schools, like traditional public schools, cant choose which students to accept. The exceptions are schools geared toward students with disabilities and girls-only or boys-only schools, which the 2012 law authorized. Some of the schools which can be brick and mortal, virtual or a hybrid of both are set up to help students who arent succeeding in a traditional school, meaning their ratings may skew lower. But when a school is consistently failing its state report card, which takes into account academics, career readiness and general school climate, then something is clearly wrong, Hembree said. A failing schools a failing school, and we need to take steps to try to address them, Hembree said. Advertisement Advertisement Under the bill, a school that received the lowest possible state rating for three years in a row would have to close permanently, strengthening existing state law that relies only on federal standards. If an authorizer didnt take action, the bill would allow the state Department of Education to close the authorizer and transfer its schools elsewhere. Existing law doesnt give the education agency the ability to intervene, Hembree said. I think thats on us, Hembree said. Thats a failure of the General Assembly to foresee that situation and create that structure. We didnt do it before, Hembree added. Thats why were doing it now. Authorizers would also have to meet higher standards to start sponsoring schools under the bill. Prospective authorizers only need to register with the state Department of Education, which can mean sending a letter as short as a paragraph, Runyan said. Any college could then start sponsoring schools and receiving the monetary aid that comes with it. There rightfully, I think, needs to be some front-end vetting, Runyan said. The bill would create an application process, giving state officials more authority to turn away unqualified sponsors. Potential authorizers would have to give the state copies of proposed charter agreements, plans for staff and their compensation, and a plan to enforce the schools contracts, including plans for how officials would evaluate how well schools are performing. Existing authorizers including Voorhees University, which plans to sponsor its first charter schools in the 2027-2028 school year would not have to reapply. Hopping and shopping Underperforming schools in danger of closure often search for a different authorizer to take them in. Without a responsible authorizer to hold them accountable, those same schools can keep operating, Hembree said. When a charter school escapes accountability, that means students are stuck with a subpar education, Hembree said. You shouldnt be able to game the system, because youre gambling with these childrens futures, Hembree said. A charter school looking to move would need permission from both its existing and prospective authorizers under Hembrees proposal. Valid reasons for denying that application under the bill include violations of the schools existing contract, low performance scores on state evaluations, more than one transfer in the past decade or less than two years of operation as a charter school. That way, authorizers could continue the oversight the bill requires of them, monitoring schools performance and closing any that dont meet expectations or uphold their end of the contract, Hembree said. Sen. Josh Kimbrell, who has kept the bill from advancing in the past, said his biggest concern is that schools might be held hostage by an authorizer that doesnt best suit its needs if the rules become too strict. Schools shouldnt be able to move willy-nilly to escape scrutiny, but some schools have legitimate reasons to want to swap, said the Boiling Springs Republican. That is my biggest concern, is that we find a way that is a fair balance between the two, that theres accountability for the school but theres also accountability for the authorizer, Kimbrell said. Some schools may want to move to an authorizer with higher standards or get away from an authorizer whose mission doesnt mesh with that of the school, he said. If a charter school can offer a good reason for its swap, there should be a process for an exception, he said. I just dont want it to be lopsided, Kimbrell said. The bill would allow charter schools to seek out new sponsors if their authorizer closed, like Limestone University did last year. And it would require the state education department to develop a streamlined transfer application making it easier for schools to move to a new authorizer if their original one shut down for any reason. That would help avoid the uncertainty that came with Limestones closure last year, when the state education department leapt into action to try and find homes for its charter schools. Of the 17 schools Limestone Charter Association sponsored, 12 joined the South Carolina Public Charter School District, and two went to the Charter Institute at Erskine, according to the state Department of Education. Three of the schools will close at the end of the school year. The authorizers divvied up another seven schools slated to open for the 2026-2027 school year. Spending rules and conflicts of interest The people running authorizers and the management companies hired by charter school boards need more oversight as well, especially when it comes to questions about conflicts of interest and transparency in their spending, Hembree said. That became especially clear following a report from Legislative Audit Council issued in November, he said. The report by the Legislatures research agency found that the Charter Institute at Erskine didnt break the law. In some cases, though, that was because the law was either vague or silent about how authorizers and their board members should act, according to the report. The bill as written would make about half of the changes the Legislative Audit Council suggested. Other recommendations may be added during the floor debate. Take, for instance, institute officials trips abroad to London and Stockholm. Although leaders said the purpose of the trips was to tour other charter schools and bring home ideas for their own program, the audit questioned whether leaders made the most efficient use of their time and money on the trips. All told, the institute spent $820,000 on travel between 2023 and 2025, nearly $478,000 of which was for professional development. Thats far beyond the $193,000 the South Carolina Public Charter School District spent on the same type of travel, and none involved overseas trips, the report found. Nothing in state law prohibits that kind of spending for a charter school, the report found. The law doesnt address authorizer spending at all, including travel or how much of its budget an authorizer should spend on rent or buying property, another issue the report raised, leaving the practice in a legal gray area. Although the authorizers receive state funds through the charter schools they ostensibly oversee, whether they must go through the same set of approvals to spend that money is unclear, the report found. Charter schools and their authorizers would have to follow the same rules as traditional public schools, including when it comes to their finances, under the bill. In an effort to bolster transparency, the schools would have to post their annual budgets and audits online for people to see. And charter school board members would have to go through the same training process required of traditional public school board members. If youre receiving millions of dollars in public funds to do public education, you just turned into a public entity that has to do public reporting, and you cant hide behind some technicality, Hembree said. The Charter Institute at Erskine generally releases the information state officials want to see, but that doesnt mean other authorizers will do the same, Hembree said. Each charter school has its own school board, making it even more important to create consistent rules about what they can and cant do, he said. Also questionable are requirements about conflicts of interest, the report found. Existing law mentions that school board members can be removed if they engage in conflicts of interest but goes no further than that, leaving it up to interpretation what qualifies and whether that also applies to the authorizer, according to the report. For instance, the Charter Institute at Erskine paid a charter school leader for consulting services for four years, a job that included speaking at conferences and attending meetings of charter school officials, according to the report. The institute also paid a former board chair for office furniture. Neither of those actions seemed to violate state law, according to the report. The college prohibits certain conflicts of interest through its own policy, but state oversight could help strengthen that, the report suggested. Board members and employees wouldnt be allowed to do business with companies run by themselves or their immediate family members under the bill. Nor could they serve on the boards of multiple charter schools or authorizers at once. There was too much cross-contamination, Hembree said, between charter schools and the companies they contracted with. We needed a little more separation, Hembree said. It was a little too cozy in some of these relationships. In advance of a high-profile, internationally followed high-court showdown, the South Carolina Supreme Court has made some adjustments to the procedural ground rules for this week's oral arguments in the appeal of Richard Alexander "Alex" Murdaugh's murder conviction, giving both legal parties more time to argue their cases. The South Carolina high court will hear oral arguments in Murdaugh's appellate case on Wednesday, Feb. 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m., per the February 2026 S.C. Supreme Court roster. Murdaugh, a former Hampton attorney also convicted of multiple fraud-related crimes worth millions of dollars, was convicted in March 2023 for the June 2021 murders of his wife, Maggie, and younger son, Paul, before Circuit Judge Clifton Newman in Walterboro. Advertisement Advertisement Following the jury trial conviction, Newman sentenced Murdaugh to two consecutive life sentences, but the disbarred lawyer, who admitted the fraud but denied the killings, almost immediately appealed his case to the Supreme Court over allegations of jury tampering and other legal grounds to be argued before the high court. On Jan. 21, the Supreme Court issued orders setting time limits for attorneys on both sides to present oral arguments and file replies, but amended those rules on Tuesday, Feb. 3, to grant the parties more time. The "Appellant," or Murdaugh's legal team, will have 20 minutes to present oral arguments stemming from the appeal of the denial of the motion for a new trial, while the "Respondent," the State of South Carolina, represented by the S.C. Attorney General's Office, will also have 20 minutes to present counterarguments. Murdaugh's team will then have 20 minutes to present arguments arising from the appeal of the underlying murder trial, while the State will have another 20 minutes to present counterarguments. Advertisement Advertisement Following these arguments, the Appellant Murdaugh will then have 10 additional minutes for final replies addressing both appeals. According to documents filed with the court last week, Murdaugh will have three attorneys presenting his arguments: Richard "Dick" Harpootlian, James "Jim" Griffin, and Phillip D. Barber. Presenting the state's case will be Senior Assistant Deputy Attorney General Creighton Waters. Attorney General Alan Wilson will be seated with him at the counsel table. On Jan. 21, a spokesperson for Murdaugh's legal team confirmed that Murdaugh will not be attending the oral arguments. Here's what attorneys had to say prior to the hearing The Greenville News/USA Today Network - South Carolina reached out to both sides of the appellate case for possible comments heading into the Wednesday, Feb. 11, legal showdown. Advertisement Advertisement Robert Kittle, spokesperson for the S.C. Attorney General's Office, stated that while the AG's Office offers limited comments on pending litigation, "We look forward to making our arguments before the state Supreme Court. "As the State set forth in its brief and in its arguments at the trial and the hearing on the motion for a new trial, the State will show that Judge Newman and Justice Toal correctly applied the law, that there was no prejudicial error, and that therefore the convictions should be affirmed," the AG's Office added. Murdaugh's legal team did not respond to the request for additional comment, but their recent legal filings set out their case. Perhaps the most significant linchpin issue in Murdaugh's appeal revolves around the alleged actions of former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill, who is accused of making improper statements to the murder trial jury so she could write a book about the successful case statements which Murdaugh says influenced at least one juror to vote guilty and compromised the integrity of the trial, despite a January 2024 hearing in which former S.C. Chief Justice Jean Toal ruled that Murdaugh was not entitled to a new trial. Advertisement Advertisement "Alex Murdaughs conviction represents a fundamental breakdown of the American criminal justice systems most basic protections," Murdaugh's defense argues. "This case was not built on the 'overwhelming evidence of guilt' the State claims, but on a foundation of investigative malpractice, prosecutorial misconduct, and corruption by an elected court official that denied Murdaugh his constitutional right to a fair trial." Becky Hill yells down to the attorney general Alan Wilson as he thanks her during a press conference after Alex Murdaugh was found guilty on all four counts at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro on Thursday, March 2, 2023. Andrew J. Whitaker/The Post and Courier/Pool Murdaugh's attorneys argue that the high court should ensure that their client is judged by a fair legal system. "The public rightly sees Murdaughs downfall as an expose of privilege and corruption in South Carolinas legal system, and the citizens of South Carolina need more from this case than confirmation of their own social-media-fed ideas about the details of a crime they did not witness. They need to see that their legal system actually works. Satisfying public desire to see a hated man punished is not why we have a legal system," Murdaugh's attorneys wrote. "If Murdaugh is to be convicted of murder, the citizens of South Carolina need to see him convicted by a process they would agree is fair if they were the defendants. No reasonable man would agree, if he were on trial for his life, that having the clerk of court secretly advocate against him in the jury room so she can sell books about his conviction would be a fair trial. Providing Murdaugh with the fair trial that every citizen of South Carolina would expect for himself is necessary to assure all that no onepowerful or humble, innocent or guilty, hated or beloved is proscribed from due process and the equal protection of the law." Advertisement Advertisement After the oral arguments, the Supreme Court, during consideration, will also have before it a massive amount of documentation, including the recent appellate briefs and replies, the entire court transcript from Murdaugh's six-week, double-murder trial in 2023, the transcript of the appeal hearing held before Justice Toal, and the indictments and guilty plea documents pertaining to former clerk Hill. The Supreme Court does not have a deadline for when it will issue written opinions after the oral argument, said Kittle, but the process can typically take anywhere from several weeks to several months. Can the public attend the Murdaugh Supreme Court hearing? Alex Murdaugh, prior to the start of the day, where he remains testifying on the stand during his trial at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023. Grace Beahm Alford/The Post and Courier/Pool The hearing will be held in the historic Supreme Court Building at 1231 Gervais St., Columbia. The court session will be open to the public, per a Jan. 21 Supreme Court order, but seating is limited. Reserved seating will not be offered, except to legal counsel and their parties. The order states: "Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 8:30 a.m." Advertisement Advertisement Laptops and tablets are permitted in the courtroom, provided that they are silenced. Cell phones are also permitted, but they must be powered off. No cameras or video cameras are allowed in the courtroom, except those operated by SCETV. Can the public watch the Alex Murdaugh Supreme Court hearing on TV or online? SCETV will provide live pool television coverage of the oral arguments. To support widespread, comprehensive media coverage, SCETV is coordinating with media outlets across the state and nation to expand public access to the proceedings. "By livestreaming the court proceedings, SCETV continues its role in expanding public access to judicial proceedings and ensuring South Carolinians can observe the work of the states highest court, regardless of location," stated a recent SCETV release. As an alternative to observing the arguments in person at the Supreme Court Building, interested individuals may view them via livestream on the SCETV website at https://www.scetv.org/live/supreme-court-south-carolina. Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday morning, The Greenville News/USA Today will also provide a live link to the SCETV feed as part of its preview coverage, live coverage, and extensive follow-up reports. Following the oral arguments, a recording will be posted to the Supreme Court Video Portal athttps://www.sccourts.org/courts/supreme-court/video-portal/. The live stream can also be accessed via the SCETV Facebook and YouTube pages. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Alex Murdaugh's appeal of murder convictions to be heard by SC Supreme Court Scientists are warning that Himalayan glacial lakes are becoming a growing threat to communities downstream as "too little snow and too much rain" destabilize the region's terrain. What's happening? Thulagi Glacial Lake, at the base of the retreating Thulagi Glacier near Mount Manaslu in Nepal, has expanded over the past few decades as surrounding ice melted, the Nepali Times reported. Once a small pool in the 1960s, the lake is now more than 1 square kilometer (nearly 250 acres) and holds close to 10 billion gallons of water. Advertisement Advertisement Scientists have classified Thulagi as one of the most dangerous glacial lakes in the Himalayas, among 47 others on an ICIMOD watchlist. They fear a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), a sudden release of water triggered by landslides, ice collapse, or weakening natural dams. "The lake will burst sooner or later," local guide Chandra Bahadur Gurung told the Nepali Times. A 2018 study followed the evolution of three glacial lakes, including Thulagi, finding that a GLOF from Thulagi posed a risk to communities and four hydropower projects downstream. Why is this concerning? Rising global temperatures driven by the production and use of oil, gas, and coal are raising the risks of melting and devastating GLOFs. Advertisement Advertisement Modeling showed that if Thulagi were to burst, floodwaters could reach downstream towns within hours, with surges over 40 feet in some locations. Entire villages could be wiped out, roads and bridges destroyed, and rivers permanently rerouted. Residents in Nepal's Manang district still carry trauma from flooding in 2021, when heavy rainfall led to surging water in the Marsyangdi River. "I did not know if I would live or die," one hotel owner recalled after watching water tear through his village. "The Marsyangdi flows through my house now," said Kamarkali Gurung. "I can never go back." Advertisement Advertisement Extreme weather events like these destroy and disrupt livelihoods, tourism, agriculture, and energy production for vulnerable communities. Extreme rainfall in the region has already devastated farms in Nepal and doubled food prices for families, and past GLOFs have washed away homes and healthcare clinics and taken lives. Beyond immediate destruction, flooding can contaminate drinking water, spread disease, and destabilize ecosystems that communities depend on for fishing and farming. What's being done about it? It wasn't until the 2021 floods that early warning systems were installed on the banks of the Marsyangdi River and nearby towns. Advertisement Advertisement However, there is currently little preparation beyond that, and no warning systems cover Thulagi. Last year, the Green Climate Fund approved a $36.1 million grant to help reduce the risk of GLOFs by reducing water levels in four glacial lakes, including Thulagi, under the United Nations Development Program. Globally, scientists stress that protecting vulnerable communities requires coordinated multinational efforts to slow ice loss, invest in resilient infrastructure, transition to clean energy, and plan relocations only when necessary. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. A state Public Integrity Unit fielded 47 complaints of state employee misconduct in its first six months of operations, according to the South Dakota Attorney Generals Office. Of those complaints, 14 resulted in criminal investigations, four of which have resulted in criminal charges thus far. The figures are part of a report delivered this week to the Legislatures Government Operations and Audit Committee. Advertisement Advertisement More: Is rent cheap in South Dakota? Report shows state is one of the most affordable for renters South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley enters the house while clapping for Gov. Larry Rhoden during the budget address on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, at South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre, South Dakota. At a press conference on the findings Wednesday, Attorney General Marty Jackley said the unit was born of legislation passed last year meant to tighten protections for whistleblowers and address the crush of state employee misconduct allegations that preceded the 2025 legislative session. The complaints and charges should not cast disparagement over the states 14,000 hard-working, dedicated employees, Jackley said, but should show the states commitment to ethical government operations. We will not allow a few to tarnish the sterling reputation of the majority, Jackley said. Advertisement Advertisement A bill passed in 2025 required disclosure of suspected wrongdoing by state employees and affixed criminal penalties for a failure to do so. The bill also cleared a path for the Public Integrity Unit, which includes Auditor General Russell Olson, a Division of Criminal Investigation agent and a public integrity prosecutor with Jackleys office. Just under half the complaints originated with two agencies, the Department of Social Services and the Department of Corrections, which were responsible for 23% and 21% of the complaints, respectively. Thirty of the complaints were managed at the administrative level, Jackley said, without criminal sanctions. Two others fell outside the units purview, meaning the alleged behavior fell outside the statutory requirements for legal and ethical behavior of state employees or no reasonable cause was shown. Advertisement Advertisement Three complaints were unsubstantiated, the report says, and three others were deemed substantiated, but Jackleys office opted against prosecutions: A Department of Labor employee resigned after an investigation found excessive mileage logged in their state vehicle, excessive litter and inaccurate travel logs. A Department of Corrections employee kicked closed a cuff port a small opening in a cell door used to deliver food or medicine to inmates while an inmates hands were still in the port and after the officer had just experienced a fluid assault, the report said. A Board of Regents employee was found to have used a state vehicle to haul rock from a campus building to their home for personal use; the matter was handled administratively after consultation with legal counsel for the board. Five of the 14 criminal investigations remain open. The four cases that have drawn criminal charges involve: A former social services employee accused of fraud for allegedly falsifying abuse and neglect reports. A former correctional officer accused of helping to provide drugs to inmates. A former South Dakota State University employee accused of grand theft for allegedly using state dollars and resources to pay veterinary bills. A former drivers license examiner accused of accessing state drivers license photos, possession of computer-generated pornography and, in one instance, solicitation of rape. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Unit fields 47 complaints of state employee misconduct, 4 charged Now that the Supreme Court appears to have filled out its oral argument docket for the 2025-26 term (unless it opts to fast-track a case), it seems an apt time to survey the Second Amendment landscape and highlight some of the biggest issues that the justices have not yet tackled. As a reminder, the current era of Second Amendment jurisprudence is relatively new in the world of Supreme Court case law. Indeed, it was less than 20 years ago that the court decided District of Columbia v. Heller, holding that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to possess a firearm for self-defense. Fast forward to 2022, when the court brought about another sea change with its decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen and established (or at least formalized) a new test for Second Amendment cases: text, history, and tradition. Specifically, under the Bruen framework, courts must first ask whether the plain text of the Second Amendment is implicated by the challenged firearm conduct; if so, the government must then show that the law restricting gun rights aligns with this countrys historical tradition of firearm regulation. Until now, the only other Second Amendment case decided since Bruen was United States v. Rahimi, in which an eight-justice majority upheld a federal statute that temporarily disarms anyone subject to a domestic-violence restraining order. While Rahimi gave some guidance on how to undertake Bruens historical analysis, lower courts nevertheless continue to struggle and split on several gun-related matters. Advertisement Advertisement Which brings us back to the present. This term, we will get two Second Amendment decisions from the court. In Wolford v. Lopez, the justices are considering whether a Hawaii law that presumptively prohibits carrying handguns on private property open to the public unless the property owner has affirmatively consented violates the Second Amendment. And in early March, the court will hear oral argument in United States v. Hemani, on the constitutionality of a federal law that prohibits firearm possession by individuals who are unlawful user[s] of or addicted to any controlled substance. These cases may provide some much-needed guidance for litigants and lower courts on how to apply the history and tradition framework to Second Amendment challenges. But they leave many significant issues concerning gun rights on the table. Below are some of them. Semiautomatic rifles The status of semiautomatic rifles (like the AR-15) is probably the most prominent issue concerning the Second Amendment yet to be decided. As Pete Patterson recently explained to Haley Proctor on SCOTUSblog, the Supreme Court said in Heller that the Second Amendment protects arms that are in common use for lawful purposes, but not dangerous and unusual weapons. Semiautomatic rifles demonstrate, at least in the view of some courts, the conflict that arises from this formulation. The AR-15 is said to be the most popular firearm in the United States and therefore is arguably in common use. On the other hand, courts upholding bans of these firearms have pointed to the AR-15s firepower and accuracy to conclude that it is more appropriate for military combat than civilian self-defense and therefore qualifies as the type of dangerous weapon banned at the time of the founding. Advertisement Advertisement Last June, the justices denied a petition for review challenging Marylands ban on semiautomatic rifles. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch all indicated that they would have taken up the case. Although Justice Brett Kavanaugh did not vote to grant review, he wrote a short statement respecting the denial. Kavanaugh explained that he was doubtful that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit was correct in upholding Marylands ban on such weapons. But because other circuit courts were in the process of deciding similar cases, he wrote, the time was not yet ripe for the Supreme Court to get involved. Nonetheless, Kavanaugh concluded by stating that the court should and presumably will address the issue of AR-15s shortly, in the next Term or two. Perhaps we will see this prediction come to fruition soon: the court is currently considering whether to grant two pending petitions Viramontes v. Cook County and National Association for Gun Rights v. Lamont on this question. Large-capacity magazines Although the laws vary slightly, a number of states have enacted bans on what are commonly referred to as large-capacity magazines. Typically, this category includes any magazine that holds more than 10 rounds of ammunition. A handful of federal courts of appeals and state supreme courts have held that large-capacity magazines are not Arms within the meaning of the plain text of the Second Amendment. This means that these cases have been tossed out at step one of the Bruen inquiry, before the burden shifts to the government to demonstrate a historical tradition (or a historical analogue) of banning such items. Other courts have found (or assumed) that large-capacity magazines are Arms, but ultimately concluded that the challenged regulations were constitutional because there was a sufficient historical tradition justifying bans on them. Currently, there are at least two petitions on this question pending before the court, which have been relisted at several conferences. For example, Duncan v. Bonta has been considered by the justices at the last five of these. Given this, it seems only a matter of time before this issue is considered by the court. Possession of guns by people convicted of felonies Another federal law, commonly known as the felon in possession statute, effectively makes it illegal for anyone convicted of any crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison to possess a firearm or ammunition. Many individuals have brought challenges to this statute (and similar state statutes), arguing that it is unconstitutional to disarm them on the basis of past felony convictions when the underlying felony was nonviolent such as in the sale of controlled substances or for fraud. Advertisement Advertisement While these challenges are prolific, they have also been relatively unsuccessful. Of the nine federal circuits that have decided a case on this issue, only the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit has held the statute unconstitutional in any respect. In Garland v. Range, that court held it was unconstitutional to permanently disarm Bryan Range for a decades-old conviction for food-stamp fraud. In addition, the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 5th and 6th Circuits have indicated a willingness to consider individual challenges to this statute based on the type of crime, although six other circuits that have weighed in have seemingly decided that individuals convicted of felonies have no recourse at all, regardless of what their underlying convictions may be. Just last month, the justices denied a large number of petitions on this issue. The court did not act, however, on two cases presenting this question including a petition for review filed by Melynda Vincent, who is banned from owning a firearm because of her nearly two-decades-old conviction for attempting to pass a bad check. Although Vincents case lived to see another day, it seems unlikely that the court will grant it in light of the other denials. Sensitive places In Heller, the court emphasized that nothing in its opinion was meant to call into question (among other things) restrictions on firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings. But what about anywhere else? Many states and municipalities have regulations restricting the carrying of firearms in a variety of locations, including places of worship, parks and zoos, public transportation, and places where alcohol is consumed. These cases thus highlight two interrelated questions: what, exactly, qualifies as sensitive, and why? Advertisement Advertisement The justices may provide answers if they choose to take up a case like Schoenthal v. Raoul, which is a petition currently pending before the court. Specifically, Schoenthal is a challenge to an Illinois law that bans possession of firearms on public transportation. According to the gun owners who brought the lawsuit, history demonstrates that individuals retain their Second Amendment right of self-defense in public spaces unless the government decides to bear the burden of securing them (typically by supplying things like armed guards and metal detectors) therefore, only places where the government has assumed such a burden may be deemed sensitive. Of note: Wolford also included a challenge to Hawaiis sensitive place restrictions, but the Supreme Court did not agree to hear or decide that aspect of the case. It is therefore unlikely that we will get much in the way of clarity on this issue in the Wolford decision, and it will then remain ripe for resolution in a future case. Minors Multiple federal and state laws prohibit individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing or possessing firearms. After Bruen, there have been numerous challenges to these restrictions as they apply to 18-to-20-year-old adults. Prior Supreme Court decisions, such as 1968s Ginsberg v. New York, have indicated (though not without criticism) that minors may have less expansive constitutional rights. Nonetheless, a good deal of these cases seem to assume that minors are younger than 18, and that once an individual turns 18, they are an adult who enjoys robust constitutional rights, which may include the Second Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Another wrinkle comes from the historical presence (or absence) of such laws, which, as weve established, is quite important since the courts decision in Bruen. Lower courts have split on this issue, whether in considering the age of maturity at the founding or the nature of 18th-century regulations of university students. There are currently at least two relevant petitions pending at the court, including Paris v. Second Amendment Foundation, in which the government argues that laws setting a minimum age of 21 for gun rights are consistent with history from the time of the founding through the 19th century. That said, the justices have not considered either case at a conference since November, so it does not appear that the justices are looking to decide this issue anytime soon. What counts as history? This final category is a bit more abstract than the others, centered not on a particular type of regulation but instead on the legal framework concerning them. In Wolford, the petition included two questions presented. In addition to the question the justices agreed to hear (regarding firearms on private property), the challengers also argued that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit erred by relying on historical evidence from the Reconstruction era and later rather than relying only on the historical evidence available at the time of the Second Amendments ratification. The justices have acknowledged that the question of the time period on which judges should rely when conducting historical inquiries is unresolved, but they have so far declined to offer any insight of their own. In Rahimi, for example, the majority opinion explicitly referenced this ongoing issue but deemed it unnecessary to decide in that case. This matter, which has not only split courts but originalists in general, is likely to land on the courts docket again in the near future. So what now? Overall, there appear to be more questions than answers when it comes to the Second Amendment. While some observers have called this area a mess, others suggest this is just part of the normal science of constitutional law. Regardless of which view is correct, it remains an area in serious need of some guidance from the court. For more Supreme Court news and analysis, visit SCOTUSblog. Read more at SCOTUSblog BEIRUT, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem on Monday accused Israel and the United States of waging a coordinated military, political, and economic offensive against Lebanon, local media reported. "The central problem in Lebanon is the Israeli-American aggression, and it cannot be confronted with words or by relying on the United States, but through strength, resistance, and unity," Qassem said in a speech broadcast by al-Manar TV. He described Israel as Lebanon's "central enemy," accusing it of expansionist ambitions in Lebanon and the wider region, and of systematically targeting civilians, infrastructure, agriculture, and reconstruction efforts to create fear, instability, and internal divisions. Qassem said that after Israel failed to achieve its objectives on the battlefield, Washington had shifted from military support to political and economic pressure, including its push on Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah. Despite a ceasefire that took effect on Nov. 27, 2024, Israel has continued to carry out strikes in Lebanon, citing threats from Hezbollah, while maintaining positions at five key points along the Lebanese border. REPORTER: The social media post that you took down earlier today the White House says that a staffer sent it who sent it and are you going to fire them? PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: I looked at it, I saw it, and I just looked at the first part. It was about voter fraud in some place, Georgia. There was a lot of voter fraud, 2020 voter fraud. And I didnt see the whole thing. I guess during the end of it, there was some kind of a picture that people dont like. I wouldnt like it either, but I didnt see it. I looked in the first bar, and it was really about voter-fraud and the machines, how crooked it is, how disgusting it is. Then I gave it to the people to generally look at the whole thing, but I guess somebody didnt. They posted it and we took it down and we did it, but that was a voter fraud that nobody talks about. They dont like to talk about that post. We took it as soon as we found out about it. REPORTER: A number of Republicans are calling on you to apologize for that post. Is that something youre going to do? PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: No, I didnt make a mistake. I mean, I look at a lot of thousands of things. And I looked at the beginning of it. It was fine. They had that one post, and I guess it was a takeoff. By the way, a lot people covered it. If you look at where it came from, I guess, it was the takeoff on the Lion King. And certainly, it a very strong post in terms of voter fraud. Nobody knew that that was at the end. If they would have looked, they wouldve seen it. And probably they would have had the sense to take it down, but that was a takeoff on the Lion King. And a lot of people were covered or different in different positions, so. But I spoke to Tim Scott. He was great. Tim is a great guy. He understood that 100%. Sen. Tom Willis, R-Berkeley, speaks on the floor of the Senate Chamber in Charleston, West Virginia, on Feb. 9, 2026. (Photo by Will Price/West Virginia Legislative Photography) Law enforcement across West Virginia would be required to notify federal immigration officers about any person theyve identified as an immigrant lacking permanent legal status, according to a bill passed Monday in the Senate. Republican senators unanimous approval of legislation comes as federal judges have recently said that Immigration and Custom Enforcement officers wrongly jailed multiple immigrant detainees in West Virginia. Sen. Patricia Rucker, R-Jefferson Sen. Patricia Rucker, a native of Venezuela, said the bill showed clear support for legal immigration and law enforcement who are carrying immigration duties. Advertisement Advertisement Rucker, R-Jefferson, noted that she was the only member of the Senate who was an immigrant. I came here legally following the law, she said on the Senate floor. I never once had any problems with law enforcement or questions that made me feel uncomfortable. She continued, If we do not enforce the rule of law, what were doing here in this chamber is a waste of time. Senate Bill 615 is only three short paragraphs, and the bill is less than one page in length. The measure says when an individual has been determined to be in the United States illegally by a law- enforcement agency in this state the law- enforcement agency shall notify and cooperate with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement division of the United States Department of Homeland Security to the full extent authorized under federal and state law. Advertisement Advertisement The bill passed 32-2 with both Democratic senators voting no. Sen. Joey Garcia, D-Marion Sen. Joey Garcia, D-Marion said the bills lack of definition left him with questions about how it would play out across West Virginia with local law enforcement, immigrants and citizens. He noted the rulings from federal judges where theyd thrown out West Virginia immigration cases because the people detained were denied due process following their ICE arrests. The judges ordered that the immigrants involved in the cases be immediately removed from the states jails where theyd been held. When asked at some of these hearings, what was the probable cause, what was the reason for their arrest, those immigration officials came forward and they did not have the evidence. And this is happening over and over again, Garcia said. What do we do to help with this situation? We are going to muck it up even more. Advertisement Advertisement Senate Judiciary Chairman Tom Willis, R-Berkeley, said that the bill was to ensure West Virginia law enforcement cooperate with federal immigration policies amid President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. Theres a lot of chaos and disorder and lawlessness, refusal to cooperate with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. And this is just saying that moving forward, theres no question West Virginia is going to be a state of law and order, safety and security, Willis said. In an interview after the measure passed, Willis said the federal judges recent rulings about unlawfully detained immigrants in West Virginia was irrelevant to the bill. It doesnt encourage any violation of existing legal protections for those who were detained or arrested, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Patrick Morrisey has given law enforcement the option of joining ICEs 287(g) program, which allows designated law enforcement officers to interrogate people on their immigration status during routine police duties. ICE will reimburse participating agencies for their involvement, including paying the annual salary and benefits of each officer in the 287(g) program, MetroNews reported. The states jails are also receiving money from the ICE partnership; theyre paid $90 a day for each ICE detainee. More than 600 undocumented immigrants were arrested during ICE enforcement operations across West Virginia at the end of January as federal judges began looking into the legality of those arrests. Advertisement Advertisement Last week, U.S. District Judge Thomas Johnston ordered the release of Frezgi Kelete Mehari, a national of Eritrea, from South Central Regional Jail, which is overcrowded. Johnston noted that Mehari, who came to the country unlawfully, had no criminal record or gang affiliations and had voluntarily attended deportation hearings. Petitioner is entitled to a bond hearing but has not received one despite being detained since Jan. 13, 2026. Such a delay is a violation of (Meharis) due process rights, he wrote. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Senegalese police say they have arrested 14 people and broken up a paedophile gang operating between the country and France. Those arrested, who are all Senegalese, were part of a "transnational" criminal group that has been in operation since 2017, according to a police statement. It said the group was accused of "organised paedophilia, pimping, rape of minors under 15, sodomy, and intentional transmission of HIV/Aids". They allegedly repeatedly forced boys to have "unprotected sex" with men who were mostly HIV-positive and filmed it. Advertisement Advertisement Four of the accused are said to have been acting "on the instructions" of a Frenchman arrested in France in April 2025 "in exchange for money transfers". The 14 accused were brought before a judge on Friday following searches in several neighbourhoods in Dakar, and the city of Kaolack, 200km (124 miles) south-east of the capital. A police statement released on Sunday said coordinated raids had been carried out at the homes of the various suspects, with items believed to be linked to the alleged crimes seized. "The DIC [Criminal Investigations Division] carried out a major operation, dismantling a transnational organised criminal group whose members are based primarily between France and Senegal," the police said. Advertisement Advertisement The statement said the operation was conducted through cooperation between Senegal and France, with a delegation of French officers involved in the mission. The police have pledged to continue pursuing and dismantling such criminal networks and have released a toll-free number for the public to report any relevant information. You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts DAKAR, Senegal (AP) Senegalese police arrested 14 suspects in a criminal network allegedly run by a French citizen that sexually exploited children in the West African country. The suspected ringleader and French national, Pierre Robert, was arrested in France last April, police said in a statement on Sunday. Police said the network had been operating since 2017. The charges against the 14, all Senegalese nationals, include "child rape, pimping, acts against nature and the deliberate transmission of HIV, the police said in a statement Sunday. The group allegedly forced boys to have unprotected sex, often with HIV positive men, and filmed them. Advertisement Advertisement Four of the suspects are accused of acting as sex trainers and allegedly admitted carrying out the abuse in exchange for money transfers from Robert, according to the police. It was not immediately clear how many children fell victim to the group. The arrests, following a joint investigation involving Senegalese and French authorities, were carried out in coordinated raids at the suspects homes in Dakar and in Kaolack, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) southeast of the capital. Senegal has strict laws against sexual abuse of children, with prison sentences raging from five to 10 years for offenses involving children under 16. But limited police resources, lack of staff and gaps in judicial follow-through have hampered enforcement of child protection laws, Human Rights Watch said in a 2018 report. HONG KONG (AP) Monday's sentencing of Hong Kong democracy advocate and one-time media magnate Jimmy Lai brought an outcry from governments and rights groups. Chinese and Hong Kong authorities defended it, saying it reflected the spirit of the rule of law. The 78-year-old Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being found guilty in December of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiring with others to publish seditious articles. His co-defendants, who entered guilty pleas to the collusion-related charge, received prison terms ranging from six years and three months to 10 years. Some foreign governments called for the release of Lai, a British citizen. China's Foreign Ministry maintained that Lai is a Chinese citizen and urged countries to respect its sovereignty. Advertisement Advertisement Here are reactions: United Nations The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Turk, said Lai was punished for exercising rights protected under international law" and that the sentence must be quashed. His office raised concerns that the charges' broad scope risks criminalizing legitimate activities of civil society organizations and journalists. This is part of a broader repressive trend in Hong Kong, where hundreds have been arrested and prosecuted under these laws," Turk said. Hong Kong Hong Kongs secretary for security, Chris Tang, accused external forces of ignoring the facts while criticizing the case as a so-called political prosecution'." Advertisement Advertisement Hong Kong leader John Lee said Lai had used Apple Daily to poison residents and incite hatred. He said Lai deserved the sentence because he openly asked for foreign sanctions against China as well as Hong Kong and harmed their interests. His heavy sentence of 20 years in prison demonstrated the rule of law, upheld justice and brought great satisfaction to the people, he said. The United States The U.S. State Department called the sentence an unjust and tragic conclusion to this case and urged Chinese authorities to grant Lai humanitarian parole, adding that the case shows the world that Beijing will go to extraordinary lengths to silence those who advocate fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong. Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Jeff Merkley, D.-Oregon, who in 2023 nominated Lai for the Nobel Peace Prize, said the sentencing should put to rest any illusion that the Chinese government will relent until it exercises total control over the people of Hong Kong. Merkley has co-sponsored a bill seeking to strip Hong Kong's economic and trade offices in the U.S. of their diplomatic privileges, citing Beijing's dismantling of the territory's autonomy. Britain U.K. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Lai was sentenced for exercising his right to freedom of expression after a politically motivated prosecution. She called on the Hong Kong authorities to release him on humanitarian grounds. Advertisement Advertisement For the 78-year-old, this is tantamount to a life sentence, she said, adding that her government will rapidly engage further on the case. The British government said it is expanding an immigration route to more residents of Hong Kong, a former British colony, amid continuing deterioration of rights and freedoms in the territory. It estimated that some 26,000 Hong Kongers could relocate to the U.K. in the next five years. China China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters at a daily briefing that Lai is a Chinese citizen, calling him a major planner and participant in a series of anti-China destabilizing activities in Hong Kong. Advertisement Advertisement Lin said the judicial cases are purely Hong Kong's internal affairs, urging "relevant countries to avoid interfering in those or in Chinas internal affairs. Beijing's office in Hong Kong affairs said Lai's sentence reflected Hong Kong's determination in safeguarding national security. The European Union The EU reiterated its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Lai, citing his advanced age and health condition. The politically motivated prosecution of Jimmy Lai and the former Apple Daily executives and journalists harms Hong Kongs reputation, it said. The EU calls on the Hong Kong authorities to restore confidence in press freedom in Hong Kong, one of the pillars of its historic success as an international financial center, and to stop prosecuting journalists. Advertisement Advertisement Australia Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the prosecutions have had a chilling effect on free speech in Hong Kong. She called on China to stop suppression of freedom of expression, media and civil society, and to repeal the security law, under which Lai was convicted. Taiwan Taiwan's mainland affairs council condemned the Chinese and Hong Kong governments for suppressing human rights in the name of national security, and called for Lai's release. It reminded Taiwanese people to take Hong Kong's painful experience as a warning to safeguard their hard-won free way of life. Rights groups Advertisement Advertisement Reporters Without Borders' Director General Thibaut Bruttin said the court decision underscores the collapse of press freedom in Hong Kong and the authorities contempt for independent journalism. We have already witnessed press freedom defender Liu Xiaobo die in prison due to insufficient international pressure. We cannot allow Jimmy Lai to suffer a similar fate, he said. Over the past year there has been a big rise in the number of oil tankers and other commercial ships being abandoned around the world by their owners. What is causing the spike? And what is the human impact on the affected merchant sailors? Ivan (not his real name), spoke to me last month from an oil tanker that lies abandoned outside the territorial waters of China. He is a senior deck officer. "We had a shortage of meat, grain, fish, simple things for survival," said the Russian officer. "It's affected our health and our operational atmosphere. Advertisement Advertisement "The crew was hungry, the crew was angry, and we tried to survive only day-by-day." The ship, which we are not naming to protect Ivan, is loaded with nearly 750,000 barrels of Russian crude oil with a nominal value of around $50m (37m). It had set sail from Russia's Far East for China in early November. It was reported abandoned in December, by global trade union organisation the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), after the crew said they had not been paid for months. The vessel remains in international waters. Such is the level of scrutiny surrounding it that China is understood to be unwilling to allow it into port. Advertisement Advertisement However, the ITF has intervened to get Ivan and his colleagues paid up to December, and arranged for food, drinking water and other essentials to be sent to the ship. While some crew members have been repatriated, most, like Ivan, are still on board. Sometimes ships are abandoned in port, while others are left out at sea [ITF] Back in 2016, 20 ships were abandoned around the world, according to the ITF. In 2025 the number had ballooned to 410, with 6,223 merchant seamen falling victim. Both of those figures for last year were up by almost a third on 2024. Geopolitical instability is said to have been a driving factor of the increase in recent years. Widespread conflicts around the world and the Covid pandemic have triggered supply chain disruption and wild variation in freight costs, meaning some operators are struggling to stay afloat. Advertisement Advertisement But the ITF says the growing prevalence of so-called "shadow fleets" could be contributing to the big spike last year. These ships, typically oil tankers such as the one Ivan is stuck on, are more often ageing vessels of obscure ownership, unseaworthy, likely uninsured, and operationally hazardous. And they typically sail under flags of convenience or FOCs - the ships are registered in countries with very limited regulatory oversight. The shadow fleet vessels are trying to stay under the radar to help countries such as Russia, Iran and Venezuela export their crude in contravention of Western sanctions. Take the case of Russia. Following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it has faced sanctions that capped the price it can charge for its crude. Advertisement Advertisement But Russia has found buyers willing to pay a higher price, such China and India, though the latter has now pledged to cease purchases under the terms of a recent US trade deal. FOCs have been flown by merchant ships for more than a century, as a means for owners to skirt laws and regulations at home. In the 1920s, it was common for American-owned passenger ships to register in Panama to bypass US prohibition laws and sell alcohol on board. Panama, Liberia and the Marshall Islands are the most common FOC states, representing 46.5% of all merchant ships by weight, but The Gambia has become a player in recent years. In 2023 there were no oil tankers registered to The Gambia, but by March last year it had become paper-host to 35 such vessels. Host nations enjoy sizeable fees. Advertisement Advertisement FOC vessels feature prominently in abandonment. In 2025 they accounted for 337 ships, or 82% of the total. The number of shadow-fleet ships among this number is unclear, but such is the poor state of these vessels and the sketchy ownership structures behind them, it would appear to expose these crafts and their crews to greater risk. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) guidance is that a seafarer is abandoned when their shipowner fails to cover the cost of his or her repatriation, or has left them without the necessary maintenance and support, or has otherwise unilaterally severed ties with them. The latter includes failure to pay contractual wages for a period of at least two months. The ITF's General Secretary Stephen Cotton tells the BBC that "abandonment isn't an accident". He adds: "Seafarers don't really know where they're going. "They sign a contract, they go to somewhere else in the world, and they're confronted by lots of different challenges." Crews of abandoned ships risk running out of fresh water [ITF] Last year abandoned merchant navy crews around the world were owed a total of $25.8m, according to data from two UN agencies, the IMO, and the International Labour Organization. Advertisement Advertisement The ITF claims they have recovered and returned nearly two thirds of this, $16.5m. The wage arrears on Ivan's ship were in the region of $175,000 at the time of the ITF's initial involvement. The most affected nationality for maritime abandonment in 2025 were Indian sailors, accounting for 1,125, or 18% of the total. Filipinos (539) and Syrians (309) come second and third. In September last year, to protect its important seafaring community, the Indian government blacklisted 86 foreign vessels over seafarer abandonment and rights-violation issues. Investigations found many of them had untraceable owners or no response from flag states. Abandoned crews can spend months stuck on their ships [ITF] Mark Dickinson is the general secretary of Nautilus International, a trade union for maritime professionals. Advertisement Advertisement He blames these FOC states for "a complete derogation of responsibility" towards their merchant fleets and the crews who sail on them. He says there must be "a genuine link between ship owners and the flags under which they sail". This link is already mandated under international maritime law, but there is no universally-agreed definition. Ivan's ship was sailing under a false Gambian flag, unregistered and unknown to The Gambia. It has since been provisionally accepted under the flag of another African nation that it is said to have opened a formal inquiry into the vessel. ITF inspector Nathan Smith tells me that he expects the tanker's fate will be resolved only when the oil is transferred off the ship through a ship-to-ship transfer in open sea. Advertisement Advertisement Ivan says that in the future he will check more carefully about any ship crew he joins. "For sure I will have a proper discussion about the vessel's condition, about payment and provisions. And turn to the internet, where we can see which vessels are banned, which vessels are under sanction." Seafarers like Ivan are often at the mercy of the contracts available. With shadow-fleet voyages a key feature of the supply chain for Russian oil, greater international cooperation will be needed to protect seafarers from the inherent risks of maritime service. Read more global business stories Milan, Italy The worlds largest shipping line has been enabling the transport of goods to and from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, as the United States and Europe continue to promote trade despite clear responsibilities under international law, a joint investigation by Al Jazeera and the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM) reveals. The Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has regularly shipped cargo from companies based in Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, according to commercial documents obtained through US import databases. Between January 1 and November 22, 2025, lading bills show that MSC facilitated at least 957 shipments of goods from Israeli outposts to the US. Of these shipments, 529 transited through European ports, including 390 in Spain, 115 in Portugal, 22 in the Netherlands, and two in Belgium. Advertisement Advertisement MSC is privately owned by Italian billionaire Gianluigi Aponte and his wife, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant, who was born in the Israeli city of Haifa in 1945, then under British rule as Mandatory Palestine. Israeli settlements are widely considered illegal under international law, because they are built on occupied territory, in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention, Nicola Perugini, senior lecturer in international relations at the University of Edinburgh, told Al Jazeera. Commercialising products from these settlements effectively supports the illegal settlements. The findings capture a limited portion of the settlement trade, since import and export data from Israel and most European countries is not publicly available. They reveal a reliance on cargo shipping companies and European maritime ports for the transport of a vast range of settlement products, from food items and textiles to skin care and natural stones. Perugini said states should ban trade with illegal settlements entirely, as it contributes to ongoing violations of international law. Advertisement Advertisement You cannot normalise the profits of an illegal occupation, he said. (Al Jazeera) US, EU positions on illegal settlements Under President Donald Trump, the US adopted a permissive stance towards Israeli settlements, reversing decades of policy in 2019. Washington declared them as not inherently illegal under international law and continued this approach upon Trumps re-election in 2025. While the EU does not recognise Israels sovereignty over West Bank settlements and regards them as an obstacle to peace, the findings show that goods were delivered directly from European ports to illegal settlements. In 2025, MSC facilitated at least 14 shipments from Italy, according to Italian export data. In each case, the cargo originated from the port of Ravenna, which stretches along the Adriatic Sea in central Italy, and openly listed the names and zip codes of Israeli settlements as recipients. Advertisement Advertisement The trade stands in contrast with a landmark 2024 opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advising that third states are obliged to prevent trade or investment relations that assist in the maintenance of the illegal situation created by Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The ICJ opinion does not directly address the responsibility of private corporations like MSC. In April, the UN Human Rights Council urged individual corporate actors to cease contributing to the establishment, maintenance, development or consolidation of Israeli settlements or the exploitation of the natural resources of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Additionally, a 2024 EU directive on corporate sustainability mandates that large companies working in the bloc identify and address adverse human rights and environmental impacts in their operations. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and a woman hold up a map that shows the long-frozen E1 settlement scheme, which would split Israeli-occupied East Jerusalem from the occupied West Bank, on the day of a news conference, near the illegal Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, on August 14, 2025 [Ronen Zvulun/Reuters] PYM, a grassroots, international pro-Palestinian movement, last year found that Maersk, Denmarks publicly owned shipping company, facilitated trade from Israeli settlements. Advertisement Advertisement The worlds biggest container group before being overtaken by MSC in 2022, Maersk is now reviewing its screening process to align with the UN Global Compact, which urges companies to adopt sustainable, socially responsible policies, and guidelines from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to the same effect. MSC told Al Jazeera in a statement that it respects global legal frameworks and regulations wherever it operates and applies this to all shipments to and from Israel. Despite insurance companies raising premiums due to security risk as Israel launched its genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023, MSC announced that it would absorb the extra costs rather than impose war surcharges. It also holds cooperation and vessel-sharing agreements with Israels publicly held cargo shipping company, ZIM. Advertisement Advertisement The Spanish and Italian interior ministries were also contacted by Al Jazeera, but did not respond to requests for comment on the shipments. The Israeli ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Sustaining settlement economy According to UN estimates, settlements in Area C comprising more than 60 percent of the occupied West Bank that Israel controls and occupied East Jerusalem contribute about $30bn to the Israeli economy each year. As Israel enforces administrative and physical barriers that severely limit Palestinian businesses, the West Banks economy is understood to have suffered a cumulative loss of $170bn between 2000 and 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Israel has recently accelerated efforts to build illegal settlements in the heart of the occupied West Bank, pressing a controversial project known as E1 that could effectively sever Palestinian land and further cut off East Jerusalem. The plan includes about 3,500 apartments that would be situated next to the existing settlement of Maale Adumim. Israels far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, said the project would effectively bury the idea of a sovereign Palestinian state. In August, 21 countries, including Italy and Spain, condemned the plan as a violation of international law that risked undermining security. Advertisement Advertisement Bills of lading obtained by Al Jazeera and PYM show that MSC delivered shipments on behalf of at least two companies, listing their address in Maale Adumim and the nearby Mishor Adumim industrial zone. Maya, a wholesale supplier for supplement and candy companies, lists Mishor Adumim in the shipper address in 13 out of 14 shipments. Extal, a private company that develops aluminium solutions and holds partnerships with Israeli weapons manufacturers including Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems listed the Mishor Adumim industrial zone in all 38 bills of lading. Extal is among 158 companies listed by the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in its database of entities officially known to be operating from illegal Israeli settlements. In at least three other cases, MSC delivered shipments on behalf of settlement-based companies listed in the OHCHR database. Advertisement Advertisement This includes 17 shipments from Ahava Dead Sea Laboratories, an Israeli world-renowned cosmetic brand that has come under intense scrutiny for reportedly pillaging Palestinian natural resources. A substantial portion of the settlement-based companies listed in the bills of lading were based in the Barkan Industrial Zone, one of the largest in the occupied West Bank. The area was established on confiscated private Palestinian agricultural land and, over the past 20 years, its expansion has led to the fragmentation and isolation of nearby Palestinian villages. Obligation to uphold human rights European member states are aware of a gap between the business-as-usual reality on the ground and the mandates of international law. In June, nine EU countries called on the European Commission to come up with proposals on how to discontinue EU trade with Israeli settlements. Advertisement Advertisement This is about ensuring that EU policies do not contribute, directly or indirectly, to the perpetuation of an illegal situation, the letter addressed to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said. It was signed by foreign ministers from Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. The European Commission has not fulfilled the request. Currently, products originating from the settlements can be imported into Europe, but do not benefit from the preferential tariffs of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Since an EU court ruling in 2019, they must be labelled as originating from Israeli settlements. Hugh Lovatt, senior policy fellow with the Middle East and North Africa programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), said the EU theoretically has an obligation to align its policies with international law. Whether that happens comes down to a political decision. Human rights abuses should be a core criterion for deciding what to buy and what to invest in, he said. But in the current global attitude, that approach has been increasingly undermined. In 2022, restrictions on trade and investment were imposed on Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine following Moscows full-scale invasion, but no similar measures were taken towards illegal Israeli settlements. A few member states have opted to take independent action. Spain and Slovenia last year banned the imports of goods produced in Israeli settlements, while Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands are working on legislation. As of January 2026, Spain banned importing goods produced in Israeli settlements, but its measures do not make explicit mention of transshipments through its ports. Bills of lading obtained as part of this investigation show that the port of Valencia plays a key role, receiving 358 out of a total of 390 shipments transiting through Spain. Several bills of lading directly reference illegal settlements in the Syrian Golan Heights. Aquestia Ltd, a company that specialises in hydraulic systems, list Kfar Haruv and Ramat HaGolan in the shipper address. Miriam Shoham, which exports fresh fruit, also lists Ramot HaGolan, while polypropylene manufacturer Mapal Cooperative Society lists Mevo Hama. PYM said, MSCs transfers to and from Israeli settlements are systemic and in violation of both international and domestic Spanish laws. MSC provides the infrastructure connecting illegal settlements to global markets, thus encouraging further occupation of Palestinian and Syrian land. The Houston Police Department said a teenager is dead after shots were fired at an unauthorized car-meetup in the Greenspoint area on Monday. Officials said the shooting happened at about 1 a.m. at the old Greenspoint Mall parking lot in the 200 block of Greens Road. At one point, HPD says, gunshots were fired near the area, and one person, who police said was in his late teens, was hit and pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said the victim was at the car meet-up with a friend. RELATED: Law enforcement investigate 2 separate weekend deadly parking lot takeovers It is unclear what led to shots being fired, officials said. HPD says there are no suspect descriptions, as those who were participating fled the area after hearing the gunshots. Lt. J.P. Horelica said there could be a possibility that the cars that were there were also hit with bullets, and an investigator later confirmed a truck had at least 5 or 6 bullet holes in it. Officials say multiple people were shooting guns, but it is not yet known if multiple people fired them. Advertisement Advertisement The parking lot is reportedly a regular Sunday meeting spot for meet-ups and "reckless driving," HPD said. Horelica said it is not uncommon for officers to be dispatched to that area to break it up. A homicide detective tells ABC13 that the event, called Slab Sunday, usually draws over 100 people and takes place at various locations across the city. SEE ALSO: Northwest Houston residents want dangerous parking lot takeovers to end: 'It makes it hard to sleep' "Constantly, on Sundays, North Belt patrol dispatches to this parking lot regarding meetups and reckless driving. They come out here regularly on Sundays and run everybody off, and end up making arrests when they can," Horelica said. HPD is urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward and contact law enforcement. Authorities are asking local businesses for surveillance footage in hopes that it will show cars leaving. SINGAPORE, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Singapore's four telecom companies, Singtel, StarHub, M1 and Simba Telecom, were targeted by cyber espionage group UNC3886 in attacks last year, Singapore's Cyber Security Agency said on Monday. The agency said the hackers were able to penetrate and gain access to some parts of the telecom systems, but could not disrupt services and did not access personal data. "They also managed to exfiltrate a small amount of technical data; this is believed to be primarily network-related data to advance the threat actors operational objectives," the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Google-owned cyber security firm Mandiant has described UNC3886 as a "China-nexus espionage group" that has attacked defence, technology and telecommunications organizations in the U.S. and Asia. Beijing routinely denies any allegations of cyber espionage, and says it opposes all forms of cyberattacks and is in fact a victim of such threats. The Chinese Embassy in Singapore did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Monday's statement was the first time the government has revealed the type of infrastructure that UNC3886 targeted. Last July the government said it was responding to cyberattacks from the group targeting high-value strategic assets. (Reporting by Jun Yuan Yong; Editing by John Mair) Boston 25 Meteorologists are tracking another winter storm expected to hit the area Tuesday night. Meteorologist Shiri Spear says snow is not expected before 1 p.m. Tuesday, though a few flurries could develop by mid-afternoon. Steady snow is set to move in around 4 p.m., so this will impact the evening commute on Tuesday, peak during the evening hours, and wind down around 2 a.m., Spear said in her Monday morning forecast. Advertisement Advertisement Tuesday evening and late-night commuters should expect slick road conditions. Cleanup efforts will be underway Wednesday, with the chance for a few lingering snow showers during the day. Between the two days, were looking at a coating to two inches for Connecticut, Rhode Island, and southeastern Massachusetts, with two to four inches north of Plymouth into Worcester, Boston, and Lowell, Spear said. Rockport through Portsmouth could see amounts on the higher end of that range, with up to four inches possible. Most of this next snow will fall Tuesday late afternoon, evening & night. Plan on some clean-up into Wednesday. @boston25 #moresnow pic.twitter.com/DYI9iAc8sH Shiri Spear (@ShiriSpear) February 9, 2026 Spear also noted the potential for another storm on Sunday, though she said it is too early to provide details. Advertisement Advertisement By Wednesday, temperatures are expected to rebound, with highs reaching the mid to upper 30s. For the latest forecast updates, visit the Boston 25 Weather page and download the Boston 25 Weather app. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Scientists make lunar chronology breakthrough with Chang'e-6 samples from far side of moon Xinhua) 08:50, February 09, 2026 BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- For the first time, scientists have confirmed that the impact cratering rates on the near and far sides of the moon are essentially consistent, laying a solid basis for the establishment of a globally unified lunar chronology system, according to the Science and Technology Daily. A research team led by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Geology and Geophysics successfully revised the decades-old lunar impact crater chronology model by analyzing remote sensing images. Their study reveals a uniform impact flux across both hemispheres, provides evidence that early lunar impact events followed a smooth trend of gradual decline, rather than the dramatic fluctuations previously hypothesized. Their findings were published in Science Advances on Thursday. Knowing the age of the lunar surface is crucial to understanding the moon's geological evolution. For decades, scientists have estimated the age of unsampled regions by counting impact craters, with a higher density indicating an older surface. However, the existing crater chronology method relied entirely on samples from the near side of the moon, and the oldest specimens date back no more than 4 billion years. This limitation fueled ongoing debate about the moon's early impact history, including competing hypotheses such as the Late Heavy Bombardment. A breakthrough came in June 2024, when China's Chang'e-6 mission returned 1,935 grams of lunar samples from the Apollo Basin, which is located within the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the moon's far side. Analysis of these samples identified two key rock types: young basalt aged at 2.807 billion years old, and ancient norite formed 4.25 billion years ago. The norite, in particular, originated from magma that crystallized after the giant impact event that formed the South Pole-Aitken Basin -- the moon's largest and oldest impact structure. These samples have served as a critical anchor point in reconstructing the early history of the moon. The researchers systematically mapped crater densities across the Chang'e-6 landing area and the broader South Pole-Aitken Basin using high-resolution remote sensing imagery. By then integrating this new density data with all historical sample data from the Apollo, Luna and Chang'e-5 missions, they constructed a new, more comprehensive lunar impact chronology model. Their results show that far-side crater density data aligns perfectly with the confidence interval of the near-side-derived model. "This indicates that the impact flux was homogeneous across the entire moon, providing a reliable basis for a unified global lunar chronology," said Yue Zongyu, the study's lead author and a researcher at the institute. Yue noted that the study fundamentally advances our understanding of lunar impact history and underscores the pivotal scientific value of the Chang'e-6 samples. The refined chronology will serve as a more accurate reference not only for lunar study but also for the dating of surfaces of other planetary bodies in the solar system. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) CAIRO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran on Monday publicly rejected a core U.S. demand to cease all uranium enrichment, while projecting a dual-track strategy of guarded diplomatic engagement and reinforced military preparedness. The moves came as the indirect Tehran-Washington talks in Oman's Muscat last week yielded no breakthrough and regional tensions continued to simmer. On Monday, Mohammad Eslami, president of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, said that while Iran could consider diluting its 60-percent enriched uranium, it would only do so if all international sanctions were first lifted. "This issue depends on whether they will lift all sanctions in return," Iran's state news agency IRNA quoted Eslami as saying. Eslami also dismissed past proposals to ship the material abroad for safekeeping. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi echoed this line on Monday, reaffirming Tehran's strategy of engaging in talks while refusing to concede on what Iran views as sovereign rights. Pezeshkian and Araghchi have described the Muscat talks as a "good start" but warned that diplomacy must be based on "respect, not coercion." Meanwhile, Tehran-based WANA news agency reported a closed-door session held on Sunday morning between the country's military chief and Araghchi, noting that the central message of the session was "the full coordination between 'diplomacy and the field' within the decision-making structure" of Iran. In a televised speech on Monday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei urged Iranians to show unity and "disappoint the enemy" ahead of the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid rising tensions with the United States. Simultaneously, Iran has signaled a shift toward greater military opacity. The IRNA said in a separate report on Sunday that the Defense Ministry has halted all public displays of new weaponry "for security reasons and to safeguard the principle of surprise," a move widely interpreted as preparing for potential conflict. Positions from the United States and Israel have appeared equally firm. A report on Sunday by Israel's Channel 15 said the United States had privately messaged Iran, seeking Iran's "concessions" in the next round of talks, and expecting "serious and meaningful content." On Monday, The Jerusalem Post, citing Israeli defense officials, reported that Israel has warned Washington it "will strike alone" if Iran crosses its "red lines" on ballistic missiles. As Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, is set to lead a delegation to visit mediator Oman on Tuesday, the diplomatic channel seems to remain technically open. Yet the fundamental mismatch of demands from Tehran and Washington, combined with visible military posturing, has pointed not to an imminent deal, but rather to a prolonged stalemate. Amid continuously simmering tensions in the Middle East, the U.S. Department of Transportation on Monday issued a new advisory to all U.S.-flagged commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, asking them to stay far away from Iran's territorial sea in case Iranian forces seek to board. The somewhat "deadlocked" situation between Tehran and Washington has been captured by several media outlets. An analysis published Monday by the Middle East Forum Observer noted the increasingly narrow path forward. The U.S. demand for Iran's zero enrichment is a "maximalist position" Tehran could not accept, while Iran likely views concessions on missiles or regional proxies as an "existential danger," it said, adding that this mutual perception of high risk has explained why both sides are talking while actively preparing for the talks' failure. The Conversation has echoed this opinion, noting in an analysis published Monday that Washington's "opening demands are often maximalist by design," which are "intended to create leverage rather than define an achievable endpoint." "The risk lies in treating these demands as simultaneously attainable," it said, adding that from Tehran's view, "the issues are not equivalent." The News Somaliland plans to use the momentum from Israels recognition of the breakaway state to press its case to Washington and other major capitals, pitching the territory as a strategic, resource-rich partner to US President Donald Trump, its leader said in an interview. The recognition of Somaliland was a historic moment for myself and for my people, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi told Semafor in Dubai. More people will pay attention. Somaliland is now used in every language in the world, and so thats a major impact. In December, Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland which has been operating as a de facto independent state since 1991 triggering condemnation from the African Union, the European Union, and countries including China, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Somalilands close ties to the UAE have also become a sticking point in the rift between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Know More Abdilahi said the backlash over Israels announcement was expected. Negative reactions were mostly based on interests, or some didnt know the history of Somaliland, he said. We are older than Somalia, and we voluntarily merged with Somalia because we wanted to unite all Somali-speaking territories at that time. Advertisement Advertisement He said Somaliland has long pursued recognition quietly, and will continue to do so. We are working hard to get more friends and countries, Abdilahi said. We have more enemies than before, so everything has to be done discreetly. Abdilahi also plans to deepen ties with Israel, including opening embassies and exchanging commercial attaches. Israel is a highly technologically advanced country. So we want to benefit from their technology in all aspects in education, in agriculture, in science, in water, he said. The president also reiterated previous overtures to Washington, highlighting Somalilands coastline on the Red Sea and in the Horn of Africa, as well as its mineral resources, which he explicitly offered to Trump. We have an abundance of natural resources, including minerals. We have oil and gas. We have very large arable land for agriculture, he said. We have the best beaches in the world. Somaliland supporters in Washington view the territory as a potential security ally in the Horn of Africa. Recognition could allow US intelligence to establish a base to monitor weapons flows, Houthi activity in Yemen, and Chinas growing footprint, including Beijings military base in neighboring Djibouti. Advertisement Advertisement The UAE is the territorys biggest investor, through port operator DP World, which has invested more than $400 million to expand a facility to handle the largest cargo vessels and is building a manufacturing and trade zone nearby in Berbera. Notable Complaints are piling up against homeowners associations in South Carolina. In 2025 alone, residents filed 568 complaints against HOAs, according to a report by the SC Department of Consumer Affairs. SC Department of Consumer Affairs Communications Director Scott Cooke tells Realtor.com that 339 of the complaints were filed against HOAs and management companies. He says the top three complaints centered on failure to adhere to and/or enforce covenants and bylaws; concerns about maintenance and repairs; and ignored requests to access information or view documents. Advertisement Advertisement Other complaints included: concerns about allocations of HOA funds; disagreements about HOA fees and special assessments; failure to produce financial statements; failure to notify residents of board's actions; issues related to HOA board elections; and requesting waivers or adjustments of violation assessments. Complaints were filed in 23 of South Carolinas 46 counties. Residents' complaints run the gamut Some of the complaints that the SC Department of Consumer Affairs received were shared with Realtor.com. One resident wrote, "I recommend that it be required to have a separate president and vice president so that there is not one person running the entire neighborhood's governing laws and making decisions without any assistance or others' opinions. If this is unable to be done, I recommend it be a requirement for the president to set polls for the neighborhood to complete before making decisions for the entire neighborhood." Advertisement Advertisement Another said they want to "be able to see information/spreadsheets of how money is being allocated" in their HOA, while another stated, "All board meetings need to be open to homeowners. Policy decisions and changes should not be done in secret." A separate complaint read, "Make certain that everyone is treated with the same enforcing of rules and respect. Bullying and harassment is not an acceptable practice of management." Several South Carolina residents also said they'd like to forbid their HOA from placing liens or foreclosing on people's properties. Reaction to the study On a Myrtle Beach, SC, Facebook page, a post about this HOA complaint study got more than 350 comments. Advertisement Advertisement Two South Carolina residents shared own complaints about their HOAs. "I was rejected to remove the pine mulch and put river rock down instead," Esther Essie Urban wrote. "One, because I think my dog is allergic and it just [attracts] bugs and two, it would make the property look better, so why would they deny that? I had no idea how strict the guidelines would be." Rebekah C Tedder wrote, "We had a complaint from our HOA that said our car was parked in the driveway but touching the grass in the yard!" Another resident said she likes her HOA, and believes the problems lie with the residents, not the homeowners associations themselves. Advertisement Advertisement "I moved here [to South Carolina] 32 years ago and was very happy with the way things were, even living in a beautiful neighborhood governed by an HOA," Nancy Webber wrote. "I think those people who complain about them are those who dont read the covenants and bylaws, break the rules, then cry victim when they get a warning letter." One South Carolina woman shared the many reasons why she's happy she doesn't live in an HOA. "I would much rather stay living in my junk of a neighborhood than a cookie cutter neighborhood of Karens. We mind our own business. Yes, a lot of my neighbors have heaping piles of junk in their yards and porches, but everyone is nice and nobody complains," Amber Forrester wrote. "It makes me feel more relaxed knowing that I can leave stuff outside without getting a fine. We all park in our grass. And you know what? It doesnt affect our home sales. People still pay a lot to live without an HOA, regardless of the mess. Im not buying a house just to have to be controlled." Many people on social media said they believe HOAs in South Carolina should be banned altogether. Prevalence of HOAs According to Realtor.com, the share of homes for sale in the U.S. that were subject to a nonzero HOA fee in 2025 reached 43.6%, up from 41.9% in 2024 and 34.3% in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement In South Carolina, that share of listings was 39.6% The eighth most expensive metro with the highest HOA fees relative to home prices was Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC, where the HOA fees average $255, or 14.6% of the typical mortgage payment. The median HOA fee nationwide was $135, up from $125 last year and $108 in 2019. Condos and townhomes are more likely to have HOAs than single family homes and new construction is more likely to have HOAs than existing homes, but the share of listings with HOAs is rising in all these categories in recent years. Seamus Nally, CEO of TurboTenant, tells Realtor.com, "I think there are definitely pros and cons to HOAs, but it does seem like the majority of buyers would rather not buy a property in one, which is totally understandable. Sure, it can mean better neighborhood maintenance or community offerings, but it also means extra fees and sometimes a lot of strict rules." Feb. 9All Springfield City School District students are being dismissed early Monday morning due to safety concerns in the district. District families received an email at 9:44 a.m. asking families to pick up their students as soon as possible, due to a "report of potential safety concern" within the district. The district said the dismissal is "out of an abundance of caution." "Law enforcement and district officials are working closely together, and there is no indication of immediate danger at the school," the district wrote in the email. Advertisement Advertisement Families are asked to pick up their students at the main entrance of their child's building and to bring a photo ID. They can contact the main office if transportation is needed. Anyone unable to pick up their student by 10:30 a.m. should plan to pick them up beginning at Springfield High School starting at 11:30 a.m., according to the district. Springfield residents and visitors are also asked to avoid downtown near the Springfield Police Division and court buildings due to "safety concerns that are impacting traffic flow," according to the city. Affected streets include Fountain Avenue, Columbia Street, North Street and Limestone Street, city officials said in a media release. Drivers should use alternate routes where possible. Advertisement Advertisement Specific details on the safety concerns for downtown and the school district were not immediately available. Note: This is a developing story and may be updated. ------ DIG INTO OUR HAITIAN COVERAGE Clark County Sheriff's Office to 'maintain the peace' as TPS ends, will not enforce immigration laws WATCH: Haitian restaurant in Springfield struggles as federal protections near expiration What's coming?: After some initially warned of an anticipated 30-day ICE surge following the end of TPS, school and state officials stressed they have had no direct communication with the feds about potential enforcement actions, but they are preparing for the possibility. Advertisement Advertisement A community in fear: Reporter Cornelius Frolik traveled the streets of Springfield with a translator and spoke to more than a dozen Haitian people living and working in the Springfield area. Most of them expressed feelings of uncertainty and dread about the TPS cancellation. Lawsuits: Area Haitians on TPS are pinning their hopes on a couple of lawsuits that challenge the legality of the federal government's decision to cancel the TPS designation for Haiti. Here are the details on those lawsuits, including one involving a Springfield man. Keket: Our reporters sat down with a local restaurant owner concerned that immigration enforcement fears could close her business. Her compelling personal story is captured in writing and video here. Residents prepare: More than 80 people took part in an educational event at Zion Hill Baptist Church in Springfield Thursday evening, learning about their rights and those of their neighbors regardless of immigration status. Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement: Local law enforcement officials say they will work to "maintain the peace" amid any ICE surge, but they won't enforce federal immigration law. City leaders: The Springfield City Commission unanimously passed a resolution asking federal immigration agents to follow local rules when conducting enforcement activities. Politicians react: Our statehouse reporter Avery Kreemer reached out to politicians who represent Dayton and Springfield at the state and national level about their views on ending TPS and an ICE surge. Read that story here. How we got here: We have been reporting on the growth of the Haitian population in Springfield and its effect on the community for years. This story from the archive explains why so many Haitians relocated to Springfield, Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Community survey: In addition to reporters interviewing residents on the street, we created an online survey to gather community perspective. I'll have a summary of responses in an upcoming story. Dayton action: Several Dayton restaurants and other businesses closed Friday and hundreds of people gathered in front of U.S. Rep. Mike Turner's Dayton office as part of the nationwide protest of ICE operations. VIDEO: What to know about Haitian immigration in Springfield VIDEO: Haitian immigrant community grows in Springfield SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WCMH) Schools and Downtown streets were abruptly closed in Springfield ON Monday morning, with Gov. Mike DeWine saying it was in response to suspicious packages found at each. Springfield City Schools said the closure was due to an abundance of caution and directed families to consult official school messages sent by text, email and phone call. The district did not offer an explanation, but the closure coincided with requests from Springfield Police to avoid downtown due to safety concerns. On social media, the city said to avoid the area near Springfields courts and police department, and that the safety issue is impacting traffic. Reporters at NBC4 sister station WDTN on the scene in Springfield said they spotted the Dayton Bomb Squad in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Ohio United Methodist Church sued for failing to act on warnings of sexual abuse The streets had reopened by 12:40 p.m., with the city saying on social media that there is no safety threat to the public at this time. WDTN reporters said DeWine confirmed two threats in Springfield, one at the county building and another at a local school. WDTN said authorities found duffel bags at both locations, and FBI agents are on scene. According to emails from the school posted on social media, families were asked to pick up their students as soon as possible. The district said there was not immediate danger at the school, and parents were directed to bring a photo ID. The correspondence was not independently verified by NBC4. Advertisement Advertisement There has been a report of a potential safety concern within the District, and out of an abundance of caution, the District is closing all SCSD school buildings for the remainder of the day, a district spokesperson said in a statement. Law enforcement and district officials are working closely together, and there is no indication of immediate danger at SCSD schools. Springfield had been bracing for ICE operations in early February due to its large Haitian population. Haitis Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a legal immigration protection for those whose home countries are deemed too dangerous to return to, was set to expire Feb. 3. On Feb. 2, a district judge blocked TPS for Haiti from expiring as another case challenging the move plays out in court, seemingly pausing possible ICE activity. See previous coverage of ICE in Springfield in the video player above. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said bomb threats referencing Haitian immigrants were sent to several Clark County offices Feb. 9, prompting the Springfield City School District to close schools and police to block off part of that city's Downtown for some of the day. County offices began receiving threats around 7:45 a.m. that called to "get rid of the Haitians," DeWine told reporters in South Vienna. Authorities also found "suspicious packages" outside the municipal court and the public safety building in downtown Springfield, he said. Police blocked off that area of the city, and schools closed early due to safety concerns. Advertisement Advertisement "This is a despicable act thats caused kids to miss a whole day of school today," DeWine said. Downtown streets reopened just before 1 p.m., the city of Springfield said in a Facebook post. The city said there was no threat to the public. DeWine said the Dayton Police Bomb Squad and the FBI are assisting with the investigation. In a statement, the FBI's Cincinnati office said it is investigating "hoax threats" in Springfield and in the Columbus area and central Ohio. "The FBI addresses these threats with the utmost seriousness, as they put innocent lives at risk and are a federal crime," the FBI said in a statement. "While we have no information to indicate a credible threat, we are currently working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to gather, share, and act upon threat information as soon as it comes to our attention." We urge the public to remain vigilant and report all suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately." Springfield schools close In an email to parents at 9:44 a.m. Feb. 9, the Springfield City School District said all district buildings would close for the remainder of the day, and parents should pick up kids as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement "Law enforcement and district officials are working closely together, and there is no indication of immediate danger at the school," the district wrote. A file aerial photo of downtown Springfield, Ohio, from March 21, 2024. The district did not share any details about the safety concerns, only saying that the district would close "out of an abundance of caution" due to a "report of a potential safety concern." People in Springfield were also asked to avoid the Downtown area near the Springfield Police Division and court buildings due to "safety concerns," according to the Springfield News-Sun. The division said "safety concerns" were impacting the flow of traffic. Springfield feared crackdown on Haitian immigrants The safety concerns come the week after officials, including DeWine, feared Immigration and Customs Enforcement would come to Springfield to arrest Haitian immigrants as Temporary Protected Status was set to end Feb. 3. Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 2, a federal judge blocked the removal of the TPS designation for Haitians, allowing them to continue to live and work in the country. TPS provides protection from deportation and work authorizations for immigrants from countries where it is deemed unsafe to return. The Trump administration and the Department of Homeland Security have appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. About 15,000 Haitian immigrants live in Springfield and another estimated 30,000 live in central Ohio. About 350,000 Haitian immigrants are believed to be in the United States on TPS. This isn't the first time Springfield has faced threats. Advertisement Advertisement City and school buildings received multiple bomb threats during the runup to the 2024 presidential election, when then-candidates Donald Trump and JD Vance amplified false claims about Haitian immigrants eating pets, thrusting the city into the center of the national immigration debate. This article has been updated with additional information. Public Safety and Breaking News Reporter Bailey Gallion can be reached at bagallion@dispatch.com. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Springfield, Ohio schools closed, downtown area reopens after bomb threat A Caldwell company agreed to change its advertising after Idaho Attorney General Raul Labradors office accused the business of misleading customers. Labradors office sued Right Now Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, alleging it was running deceptive direct-mail advertisements that claimed customers could obtain a furnace or air conditioning unit for a discounted price. Right Now denied the allegations. You can get rid of your old furnace and replace with a brand new, top of the line furnace for $1,200, one of the advertisements said. Advertisement Advertisement The Attorney Generals Office alleges that the claim and others made by the company were not true. The lawsuit said that to get a new furnace, the customer would have to pay the installation cost for the furnace and a new air conditioning unit, and Right Nows ad does not disclose clearly and conspicuously the cost of the furnace or provide the complete cost to purchase and install both units. Labradors office said customers have complained that the company failed to provide them with an itemized contract identifying the equipment and services they agreed to buy, and that they were provided a document titled estimate that the company contended was a sales contract. Labradors office said the companys estimate had a tendency to mislead or confuse reasonable customers. It accused Right Now of a pattern of unfair competition and deceptive acts that violate the Idaho Consumer Protection Act and the Idaho Rules of Consumer Protection. Advertisement Advertisement The Attorney Generals Office and Right Now agreed to an assurance of voluntary compliance in which the company agreed to change its advertising to clearly disclose the total cost it charges customers to purchase and install its HVAC products. For instance, if the company advertises that a customer can purchase an air conditioner for $1,475 installed, it must sell the air conditioner for that price. The agreement, in which Right Now does not admit liability, requires the company to keep all records related to customer complaints it receives for two years after the date it takes effect. Right Nows stipulations to the terms of this assurance do not constitute admissions by it to any facts or violations of any state or federal law, rule or regulation, the agreement says. Right Now enters into this assurance for the purpose of resolving the Attorney Generals concerns ... The company agreed to pay the Attorney Generals office $6,500 for fees and costs it incurred in pursing the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Canyon County District Judge Randall Grove approved the agreement on Dec. 22. Idahos ban on buying candy or soda with food stamps is imminent. What to know What happened to that Idaho bill? Stay updated on latest at the Capitol with this tracker Statesville police need help finding two catalytic converter thieves. One of the suspects was wearing a light-colored hoodie and dark pants. The other was in a dark hoodie and pants along with a camouflage shirt. The second suspect also had a camouflage backpack. Police shared images and said the suspects stole multiple catalytic converters from the Randy Marion Dealership on Jan. 16 and Jan. 24. If you recognize either of them, call the Statesville Police Department. VIDEO: Thieves hit NASCAR legend Greg Biffles home after deadly plane crash; $30K stolen More than 10,000 striking New York nurses reached a deal with their hospital employers that will increase salaries by more than 12 percent over three years, the nursing union said Monday. On strike since January 12, the 10,500 nurses at New York's Montefiore and Mount Sinai private hospital groups will vote on ratifying the deal and return to work this week, the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) said in a statement. As well as pay increases, the new deal contains protections against the use of AI in the workplace, as well as for trans and immigrant nurses and patients. Advertisement Advertisement Some 4,200 nurses on strike at New York-Presbyterian are not covered by the deal and will stay on the picket line. The association had said it was the largest strike by nurses in the city's history. The hospital groups involved had discharged or transferred a number of patients, canceled some surgeries and drafted in temporary staff in response to the industrial action. NYSNA President Nancy Hagans said that "for four weeks, nearly 15,000 NYSNA members held the line in the cold and in the snow for safe patient care." "Now, nurses at Montefiore and Mount Sinai systems are heading back to the bedside with our heads held high after winning fair tentative contracts that maintain enforceable safe staffing ratios, improve protections from workplace violence, and maintain health benefits with no additional out-of-pocket costs for frontline nurses." gw/msp Firefighters battling a blaze at a commercial and residential building in Derby early Sunday faced not only flames, but dangerously cold conditions that slowed their response and froze critical equipment. All road closures along Route 34 have been lifted and traffic has resumed its normal flow, according to the city's fire department. Power that was shut off for safety reasons has also been fully restored to all customers. Crews arrived on Derby Avenue around 6 a.m. Sunday. Firefighters struggled early on when several hydrants were frozen, according to Derby Fire Chief Tom Biggs. Advertisement Advertisement It was really tough in the beginning to find water that actually worked, being that it was zero degrees and wind chill of I dont even know. It made it a really rough start to the fire, Biggs said. Video from the scene captured the intensity of the moment, as firefighters worked amid high winds, freezing temperatures and limited water access. Despite the slow start, crews kept the fire contained and safely evacuated around 10 residents. Two people were taken to nearby hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, and one firefighter was hospitalized due to winter weather exposure, officials said. Residents in the surrounding area are advised to check their water for sediment or discoloration, which officials said is a normal result of heavy hydrant use during firefighting operations. Those affected are encouraged to run their water until it runs clear. Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for the FOX61 newsletters: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines Multiple departments from across the region responded to assist Derby firefighters. I know we had Ansonia, Seymour, Shelton, Beacon Falls, Southbury and Middlebury. It was a lot, we had a lot, Biggs said. At least a dozen neighboring departments rotated crews throughout the morning. Firefighters took shelter inside school buses after power was shut off at the firehouse and down the street. The powerlines are so close to the building we had to cut the power, Biggs said. Down the road, employees at a Dunkin stepped in to support first responders. Baristas Felicia Gonzales and Shannon Howard provided free coffee and donuts to crews battling the cold. Advertisement Advertisement Everyone was running back and forth and we decided, 'Why not, let's help,' Gonzales said. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced families, while the fire marshal's office is working to determine the cause of the fire. Biggs said the next step for crews is ensuring all equipment is thawed and ready for the next emergency. Victoria Anderson is a Multi-Skilled Journalist for FOX61 News. She can be reached at vanderson@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Chris Charbonneau is an Assignment Editor at FOX61 News. He can be reached at ccharbonneau@fox61.com. --- Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Crews responding to 'CO incident' at Newington ice arena RELATED: Shelter in place lifted in Mansfield as progress is made in train derailment cleanup: Officials --- Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com. HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS Download the FOX61 News APP iTunes: Click here to download Google Play: Click here to download Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61. Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search FOX61 and click Get to download. FOLLOW US ON X, FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM The U.S. Attorneys Office Western District of Washington says that one of nearly 20 defendants was charged in a drug trafficking scheme that honed in on homeless encampments and the Chinatown International District. Theodore Nation was sentenced for his involvement in the drug trafficking scheme. This defendant made his living feeding the addiction of others making it ever more difficult for them to get out of the danger of homeless encampments, said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. Advertisement Advertisement The Seattle Police Department (SPD), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began looking into the operation in November 2023. The group was notably selling fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin in areas of the International District. A street corner they were know to sell drugs was on 12thA street corner where they were known to sell drugs was on 12th Ave. S. and Jackson St. They also targeted homeless encampments, including one under I-5 in Beacon Hill, nicknamed The Jungle". W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. This organization and others like it fuel the fentanyl crisis in the United States with drugs that all too often prove fatal. Advertisement Advertisement Police used wiretaps and gathered evidence leading to the first arrest in January 2025. During these arrests, they found 17 guns and over 50 pounds of fentanyl powder. The second round of arrests happened in May 2025. During those arrests, police found 100 pounds of meth, over 240 pounds of cocaine, over 40 pounds of fentanyl powder, 250,000 fentanyl pills, and over 8 pounds. Nation was sentenced to nearly 3 years in prison for his role in the operation. Madagascar's Minister of Foreign Affairs Christine Razanamahasoa gives a speech during an event featuring Chinese gastronomic tastings to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Feb. 7, 2026. (Photo by Sitraka Rajaonarison/Xinhua) ANTANANARIVO, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Madagascar's Minister of Foreign Affairs Christine Razanamahasoa on Saturday expressed hope that new momentum will be injected into Madagascar-China relations, while extending her greetings to the Chinese people ahead of the Chinese New Year. "In this new year, Madagascar reaffirms its willingness to further strengthen mutual trust, deepen economic cooperation and investment, promote people-to-people exchanges, and, alongside China, consolidate the community with a shared future that we all aspire to," Razanamahasoa said at an event featuring Chinese gastronomic tastings to celebrate the Chinese New Year, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Madagascar. Madagascar and China have long enjoyed strong and friendly relations, she said, adding that she hopes bilateral ties will enter a new phase marked by deeper economic cooperation that delivers tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries. "I would like to convey my wishes of happiness, success and good health to the Chinese people. May China remain an example for countries aspiring to rapid development," she said. Sen. Adam Schiff is endorsing Eric Swalwell as the Bay Area House member gains momentum in Californias gubernatorial race, becoming the most prominent Democrat to choose sides in the contest. The two came up in the House together, and built their profiles working on the impeachment trials against President Donald Trump in 2021. Schiff cited Swalwells role as impeachment manager in a statement of support shared first with California Playbook. What I saw then, and what I know now, is that Eric is fully prepared to get things done and deliver for the Golden State, even as he will fight to protect our values, rights and freedoms, Schiff said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement The endorsement comes as labor groups and Democrats in the state attempt to consolidate a sprawling Democratic field that includes more than a half dozen candidates. Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter have consistently polled at the top of their party in the race, but their shares of support have been stuck in the low to mid teens due to the large size of the field. Swalwell has been gaining momentum since entering the race in November, leading all Democrats but self-funding billionaire Tom Steyer in fundraising during the second half of 2025 and picking up endorsements from eight of his California House colleagues. He has focused heavily in his campaign on Trump-bashing and affordability issues. Schiff echoed that focus, praising Swalwells capacity to take on our states biggest challenges and make real progress, from lowering costs for families to protecting our democracy from Donald Trump. Schiff, whom Swalwell endorsed over Porter in his 2024 Senate bid, is the first of Californias senators to weigh in since Sen. Alex Padilla ruled out a run for governor. And he is the closest ally of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who has enormous gravitas in the states Democratic politics but has not endorsed to pick a side in the contest. California Democratic Party delegates will vote later this month at a convention in San Francisco whether to endorse in the race, but no candidate is expected to get the party nod before the states June primary due to the large number of Democrats splitting the partys rank and file and the high threshold candidates need. TAIPEI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Taiwan's government on Monday condemned the "harsh" sentence handed out to Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai and called for his release. "Jimmy Lai's harsh sentence under Hong Kong's National Security Law not only deprives him of his personal liberty and tramples on freedom of speech and press freedom, but also denies the people's basic right to hold those in power accountable," Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council said in a statement. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Jamie Freed) NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) Tanzanias opposition leader charged with treason appeared in court for the first time in months on Monday, but the hearing was adjourned yet again after he opposed the prosecution's plan to have secret witnesses appear in a special enclosed cell. Opposition leader Tundu Lissu has been in prison for 10 months after he was arrested following an opposition rally in which he called for constitutional and electoral law reforms before last years disputed election. Lissu, who is representing himself in the case, said the punishment for treason is death and that secret witnesses in enclosed cells pose a huge risk and are likely to result in an unjust outcome for the case. Advertisement Advertisement Judges said a decision on the objection would be delivered to the court on Wednesday. Tanzanias October 2025 election led to days of protests, the internet was shut down for days, hundreds of people were killed, and thousands of protesters were arrested. The East African country, a largely peaceful nation, saw its first major wave of violence, which was blamed on foreigners by President Samia Suluhu, who won a second term with more than 97% of the vote, with no major opposition candidate in the running. Suluhu apologized to diplomats for the internet shutdown and said it would never happen again. She then formed a commission of inquiry, which she said would champion reconciliation, but the main opposition party, Chadema, has been calling for justice for the families whose kin died in the protests. Advertisement Advertisement Chadema deputy party leader, John Heche, on Monday called for the unconditional release of Lissu, alleging that Tanzanian authorities had proposed releasing him from prison on condition that he leave the country. Lissu, whose party did not participate in the October election, has been protesting the slow judicial process, with his case yet to be determined despite his arrest in April 2025. Last year, he told the court he would represent himself because of frustration with prison authorities, who he said were not allowing him to confer with his lawyers in private. Lissu is the most visible of Tanzanias fierce critics of the ruling CCM Party, which has been in power since independence. He survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and was in and out of exile until last year, when he campaigned for reforms ahead of the election. With tax season underway, you might be looking for help getting your return in order. The Internal Revenue Service has several programs that provide free tax help to people with lower incomes, people with disabilities, non-English speakers and elderly people. Staffed by local volunteers who undergo training in tax law and taxpayer confidentiality, the programs run tax-help services at libraries, community centers and schools across the country, including in Wisconsin. Most Milwaukee-area sites are offering tax help through April 15. Advertisement Advertisement Here's where to get free tax help in Wisconsin and what else to know about the tax season: The IRS said it expects to receive about 164 million individual income tax returns in 2026, with most taxpayers filing electronically. Where to get free tax help in Milwaukee There are two programs offering free tax help in Wisconsin: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly. Centers in Milwaukee offer in-person or drop-off services in English or Spanish, depending on the location. All centers, except for the Greater Mt. Sinai Church, require you to make an appointment in advance. VITA is available to people who make $69,000 or less annually, people with disabilities and taxpayers with limited English-speaking proficiency. Here is a list of VITA locations in Milwaukee. You can also enter your zip code here to find the site nearest you in Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement For people who are 60 or older, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program also offers free tax help with a focus on questions about pensions and retirement issues. The sites are operated by the AARP. Enter your zip code online to find the center nearest you. For Milwaukee County centers, you can make appointments online. Here are the Tax Counseling for the Elderly centers in Milwaukee: Advertisement Advertisement What to bring to a tax help appointment You should bring several documents to your tax help appointment, including photo identification, your Social Security card and income statements from your employer. Find a full list of required documents here. When will you get your tax refund? For both federal and state taxes, you should get your tax refund within three weeks if you file electronically, according to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and the IRS. Advertisement Advertisement Paper tax returns, meanwhile, can take several weeks longer to process at both the state and federal level. You can check the status of your Wisconsin state tax refund online on the state's refund portal, and the status of your federal tax refund online using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. More information on free tax help For more information on the VITA and TCE programs, check out this list of services provided at the help centers. When is the deadline to file 2026 taxes? Federal and Wisconsin state taxes are both due on Wednesday, April 15. More: When can I start filing my taxes in Wisconsin? IRS announces 2026 start date This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: How to get free help with your tax return in Milwaukee A teenager has been arrested following an incident involving a knife at Haute Vallee in St Helier. States of Jersey Police confirmed a 14-year-old male was restrained by members of staff until officers arrived. One student was reported to have a very minor injury to the hand. There were no other reported injuries. In an email to children's parents and carers, head teacher Stuart Hughes acknowledged the "very serious" but "extremely rare" incident at the end of lunchtime in the canteen, and added that "everyone is safe". Advertisement Advertisement Hughes said: "Members of staff acted swiftly and decisively to restrain the teenager, and the police arrived imminently... I want to reassure you that everyone is safe." He said that police were "supporting students and staff and reviewing CCTV of the incident". Hughes also said he spoke to all students in an assembly in the afternoon, alongside police and that Year 7 students "were addressed separately" to ensure they received "appropriate reassurance and support". He added: "All staff were briefed at the end of the school day and wellbeing support for both students and staff is already in place and will continue over the coming days. Advertisement Advertisement "I would like to say how proud I am of our school community. Staff responded swiftly with exceptional professionalism, and students were calm, respectful, and supportive of one another throughout." School would be open as normal on Tuesday, he also said. Chair of governors Philip Le Claire wrote a similar letter to parents in which he explained communication difficulties during the incident. He said: "I would like to acknowledge that the school was unable to communicate with parents immediately during the incident. "I hope you understand that the priority had to be ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students and staff while the situation was being managed." Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally announcing a package of bills targeted at immigrants on Jan. 15, 2026. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout) As the Trump administration moves to limit immigrant access to federal public benefits, two Tennessee Republicans are introducing sweeping legislation requiring citizenship and legal immigration verification of any applicant for public aid at state and local agencies. The bill (HB1710/SB1915) by Rep. Dennis Powers of Jacksboro and Sen. Ed Jackson of Jackson mandates that state and local departments report all those who apply for public benefits without proof of citizenship or legal immigration status to Tennessees newly created Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division an expansion of the divisions publicly enumerated responsibilities, which are focused on fostering local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities. I think that all of our tax dollars need to be going for the purpose that theyre intended for, and that purpose is for people that are legally here, said Rep. Dennis Powers, a Jacksboro Republican (Photo: John Partipilo/ Tennessee Lookout) Local public health departments and a broad range of city and county agencies that fail to comply could be subject to an Attorney General investigation and, ultimately, see their funding cut. Local government employees who fail to comply with the legislation could be arrested and charged with a misdemenor. Advertisement Advertisement Powers said Friday the measure is designed with Tennessee taxpayers in mind, to stem public funding going towards immigrants unlawfully present in Tennessee. I think that all of our tax dollars need to be going for the purpose that theyre intended for, and that purpose is for people that are legally here, Powers said. Were already doing this at the state level. Were just making sure that youre doing it at the local level, too. Housing aid, homeless services, public health, childcare assistance and food programs are examples of programs that would be included in the bills verification and reporting requirements, Powers said. Powers said that the bill encompasses programs that already verify immigration status, but is also intended to hold local agencies more accountable. State agencies are already required to verify status, but so many programs were talking about are run through city and county governments, Powers said. A lot of times were finding out that theyre not verifying benefits for the local residents and we want to make sure that all taxpayer benefits (go) to the lawful residents only. The bill as currently written applies only to adults. Power said that it would extend to verifying the immigration status of a parent or guardian of a child seeking vaccines at a local public health clinic. Advertisement Advertisement The bill is among more than a dozen introduced as part of the Tennessees Republican supermajoritys Immigration 2026 package, rolled out in January by House Speaker Cameron Sexton. Sexton said the legislation was written in consultation with White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, a key architect of the Trump administrations immigration crackdown. Tennessee Republican leaders have called the package of bills a model for the rest of the nation. In unveiling the package, Tennessee Republicans said immigrants cost the state roughly $1 billion, a figure that encompasses the cost of public education. Immigrant advocates have countered with data showing immigrants in Tennessee contribute $1.4 billion annually in state and local taxes. The legislation comes as the Trump administration has taken steps to narrow the categories of immigrants eligible for public benefits, excluding certain categories of legal immigrants such as refugees and asylum seekers from Medicaid and other programs via the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July. In Tennessee, about 8,500 refugees and asylum seekers will be cut from TennCare, Tennessees Medicaid program, on Oct. 1, TennCare Director Stephen Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued new guidelines that expand the types of programs that fall under the federal definition of public benefits, that exclude unqualified immigrants, including certain legal immigrants. The expanded list of programs includes services offered by community health centers receiving federal funding, Head Start and family planning services. Fewer categories of immigrants will be able to access fewer kinds of federally funded public benefits, said Drishti Pillai, director of immigrant health policy at KFF, a Washington, D.C.-based health policy nonprofit health policy organization. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Aaron Reitz, among the GOP candidates running to be Texas Attorney General, on Monday suggested without evidence that the leader of the Texas House Democrats, who is Asian, had lied during his citizenship application process and should have his citizenship revoked. As AG, I want to see [Rep. Gene Wu] de-naturalized, he posted on X in a response to a 28-second clip of an interview of Wu talking years ago about racial divisions in the country. The clipping, from a 2024 interview, instantly infuriated some Texas Republicans who accused Wu, a Houston Democrat, of being anti-White and racist, for his suggestion that non-white communities could come together to win elections in Texas once they realized they share the same oppressor. Advertisement Advertisement Reitz is facing three others for the GOP nomination in the March 3 primary: state Sens. Joan Huffman of Houston and Mayes Middleton of Galveston as well as U.S. Rep. Chip Roy of Austin. He appeared to be the only candidate offering to take action against Wu for his comments. On what basis? He likely concealed his anti-American sentiment throughout his citizenship app processthe details of which are conspicuously absent from the public record, Reitz wrote on social media. Wu is a subversive whose citizenship should be revoked. Through a spokesperson, Wu declined to comment. Denaturalizations are historically rare, and under federal law, can only occur if someone committed fraud while applying for citizenship. The federal government can also denaturalize someone if they become affiliated with the Communist Party, or a terrorist organization within a few years of becoming a citizen. Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump has increasingly pointed to denaturalizations as a means to increase his crackdown on immigrants. Last year, the administration issued guidance to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field offices, issuing monthly quotas for offices to initiate denaturalization cases. The video clipping that went viral shows Wu talking about relationships between different immigrant communities. The entire interview, nearly 40 minutes long, features a conversation about Texas GOP leadership, life in Texas for immigrants and Wus own life, from when he migrated as a child from China with his family to seeing the Asian American community in Houston flourish. I always tell people the day the Latino, African American, Asian and other communities realize that they share the same oppressor is the day we start winning, Wu says in the short clipping circulating social media. We have the ability to take over this country and to do what is needed for everyone and to make things fair. But the problem is our communities are divided. The video was posted Saturday evening by an X account with nearly 4 million followers. A few hours later it was reposted by LibsofTikTok, the right wing disinformation account with almost 5 million followers. Advertisement Advertisement By Monday morning, numerous Texas Republicans were outraged at Wu. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz said the Democrat party is built on bigotry. Paxton called Wu a radical racist who hates millions of Texans just because theyre white. Roy, in a heated primary contest against Reitz, said Wu should resign from his state House seat, a move other conservative influencers and commentators also encouraged. Unlike many Democrats, he admits his racism against white people and call to take over this country, Roy wrote on social media. He should resign or the TX House should strip him of any power. Bo French, the former Tarrant County GOP chair running for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission, referred to Wu as a commie, even as Wu has shared personal stories of how his family was the victim of the Chinese communist party. Advertisement Advertisement Texas Republicans in the Capitol and beyond have for years baselessly accused Wu of similar offenses, and questioned his loyalty to the state and country. The criticism reached a new peak last summer when Wu and other House Democrats left the state to delay the passage of a new congressional map aimed to max GOP gains in the U.S. House. Two lawsuits seeking to remove Wu from office for breaking quorum remain pending before the states supreme court. At one point in the interview where the viral clip came from, Wu talks about how he sees all the residents in his district as Americans, regardless of their legal status. The journalist host then asks Wu about his biggest fears for Houstons undocumented population during Trumps second term, secured with promises of a historic deportation effort. Its not just the fate of undocumented people. Its the fate of all immigrants, Wu responds, pointing to the internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. People say Im not worried. Im a citizen. When the mass deportation begins, I promise you it will not just be illegal immigrants who are affected. It will be Americans. A video clip from a Dec. 31, 2024 interview featuring Texas House Democratic leader Gene Wu has spread widely on social media this week, drawing national backlash and renewed scrutiny of Wus public record. In the interview, recorded and released on December 31, Wu discusses political unity among minority communities and says, The day the Latino, African American, Asian and other communities realize that they share the same oppressor is the day we start winning because we are the majority in this country now. We have the ability to take over this country and to do what is needed for everyone and to make things fair. The clip has circulated widely on X, where it has drawn significant reaction. Rep. Gene Wu (D) goes mask off: Non-whites share the same oppressor and we are the majority now. We can take over this country. pic.twitter.com/CrxsPqlkLI End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) February 8, 2026 The remarks drew a response from Elon Musk, who criticized the clip on X, writing, Shame on him. Musks post further amplified the videos reach. Advertisement Advertisement Texas Sen. Ted Cruz also weighed in, posting on X, The Democrat party is built on bigotry. Wu made the comments during a podcast interview with journalist Jose Antonio Vargas, in which the two discussed immigration, race, and political power in Texas. Wu serves as Minority Leader of the Texas House of Representatives and leads the Texas House Democratic Caucus. His leadership role comes amid heightened partisan tensions following quorum-breaking walkouts by House Democrats during the 2025 redistricting special session. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Wu and other House Democrats were later assessed fines totaling $9,354.25 each for their role in the 14-day walkout. The penalties were confirmed by House Administration Committee Chair Charlie Geren in a letter addressed to Wu and stemmed from daily fines and costs incurred by the state while attempting to compel attendance. Advertisement Advertisement Wu has previously faced backlash for inflammatory public remarks. In 2023, The Dallas Express reported on comments in which Wu said he was good with Republicans dying from COVID-19, remarks that drew widespread criticism and were later deleted. Wu defended the statements at the time in follow-up social media posts rather than retracting them. Wu has not publicly responded to the resurfaced video or the renewed criticism as of publication. Thailand's caretaker premier Anutin Charnvirakul was preparing for coalition talks Monday after his conservative Bhumjaithai Party surged to a stunning election victory on a wave of nationalism. The pro-military and pro-monarchy party had its best electoral performance ever in polls that took place after two rounds of deadly border clashes with Cambodia last year. Voters appeared to turn their backs on the reformist People's Party, as well as Pheu Thai, the political organisation of jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Advertisement Advertisement The two parties' vote shares plummeted compared to the last poll in 2023, according to preliminary results from the election commission. "Do you know why Anutin managed to catch up with other parties? Because he stood up to Cambodia," retiree and former Pheu Thai supporter, Pipat Saeteaw, 72, told AFP on Monday. Despite the strong victory, Bhumjaithai Party was still expected to fall short of an outright majority in the lower house, meaning Anutin would need to strike a coalition deal with another party to govern. Anutin, the scion of a construction dynasty, will also need to tackle anaemic economic growth and manage fallout over multibillion-dollar cyberscam networks operating from the region. Advertisement Advertisement "Thailand will move like it moved in the past three months. We will see nationalism, a strong position on Cambodia and economic policies. Nothing changes," said Virot Ali, politics lecturer at Thammasat University. Bhumjaithai was on course to win almost 200 seats, according to preliminary results released by the election commission after 90 percent of votes had been tallied. That would give it the largest share, but less than half of the seats in the 500-member lower house. The People's Party was expected to win around 115 seats, and Pheu Thai was set to come in third, according to the preliminary results. Advertisement Advertisement Pheu Thai is seen as a potential coalition partner for Anutin, as they were allies until Bhumjaithai pulled out over a Cambodia border dispute scandal. Anutin, who took office in September, declined to be drawn Monday on potential coalition talks. "Everything is still under consideration and in progress. Whatever the case, I have to bring this matter to the party meeting first," he told reporters. "There are still procedures to follow." Pheu Thai had its worst showing since Thaksin founded his political dynasty, after his daughter Paetongtarn was felled as prime minister over her handling of the Cambodia border dispute. Advertisement Advertisement Thaksin is serving a one-year prison sentence for corruption in office, but many observers expect him to be released earlier than scheduled alongside a political agreement. - Phone call scandal - Paul Chambers, an associate senior fellow at ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, told AFP that Bhumjaithai achieved victory by "emphasizing its commitment to nationalism and the king". The conservatives also benefitted from the "continuing unpopularity of Pheu Thai" following a leaked phone call in which Paetongtarn referred to Cambodia's former leader Hun Sen as "uncle" and described a Thai military commander as her "opponent". Advertisement Advertisement The leak sparked public and political backlash, and she was later dismissed from office by the constitutional court on an ethics complaint. Political analyst Napon Jatusripitak expected Bhumjaithai to "move quickly" to form a government in which its interests would prevail. The conflict with Cambodia, which killed scores of people and displaced around a million on both sides, was top of mind for voters. "I want the border areas to be peaceful first. Then the government can move on to solve other issues," said Prae Sangmanee, a 46-year-old seamstress near a Bangkok shopping mall. Advertisement Advertisement "If the borders are secure, the economy should be able to move forward." Soon after becoming premier following Paetongtarn's removal, Anutin authorised the armed forces to take whatever action they saw fit on the border. Thailand's military took control of several disputed areas in the latest fighting in December, and a fragile ceasefire remains in place. The Southeast Asian nation's political history is replete with military coups, bloody street protests and judicial intervention. Its constitution, drafted under military rule following the last coup in 2014, gives significant power to institutions appointed by the senate, which is not directly elected. Advertisement Advertisement Around 60 percent of voters were projected to have backed constitutional reform in principle in a referendum on Sunday, albeit with no specific measures on the table. But Bhumjaithai will now be in a position to guide the reform process, and its conservative instincts make radical change less likely. Thailand's stock exchange on Monday responded positively to the election result, jumping more than three percent, with the baht also strengthening, after the clear victory by Bhumjaithai signaled a greater likelihood of policy stability. bur-sco/ceg Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Thailand's conservative-royalist party won the election Sunday. The Bhumjaithai party secured 194 House of Representatives spots after 89 percent of the votes had been tallied, The New York Times reported. "We will accept the decision of the people in giving us the confidence, the trust to the Bhumjaithai party," said Anutin Charnvirakul, who helms the party, per the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Charnvirakul had vowed to construct a border wall following a battle with Cambodia over the boundary between countries. Bhumjaithai has committed to uphold the monarchy status quo. The more progressive People's Party earned some 116 seats, while the Pheu Thai party gained 86 spots. "People's priorities have shifted from reform to the need for stability," ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Tita Sanglee told The New York Times. Joseph Tegbe, director-general of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, speaks at a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. (China Cultural Center Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) Joseph Tegbe, director-general of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, speaks at a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. (China Cultural Center Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) ABUJA, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese community in Nigeria's capital city of Abuja, together with Nigerian partners, on Saturday held a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. The event, hosted at the China Cultural Center in Abuja, featured programs including traditional Chinese Wushu performances and Nigerian cultural exhibitions. It also served as a high-profile launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-people Exchanges, attracting hundreds of guests who experienced a lively fusion of Chinese and Nigerian traditions and hospitality. In his keynote address, Zhou Hongyou, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, highlighted the historical significance of the occasion, noting that after 55 years of close cooperation, China-Nigeria relations have gone beyond bilateral economic ties to become "a model of South-South cooperation." Zhou also drew attention to the symbolism of the Year of the Horse, the emblem of the 2026 Chinese lunar year, saying it resonates with Nigeria's national identity. "In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes hard work, perseverance, unity, and innovation. The horse also features prominently on the Coat of Arms of Nigeria ... these qualities define our relations," he said. The Chinese envoy underscored growing economic integration between the two countries, noting that both sides are "actively consulting on the implementation of the zero-tariff measures." He also cited the recent launch of the "Ni Hao! China" radio program as an important step toward enhancing mutual understanding between the two peoples. Joseph Tegbe, director-general of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, praised the tangible outcomes of China-Nigeria cooperation, particularly in infrastructure development. He highlighted the one-billion-U.S.-dollar National Integrated Poultry Project, a flagship initiative inspired by Chinese agricultural models. "This project is not just about food security; it is about jobs, dignity, and opportunity for Nigerians," he said, adding that Nigeria's Ajaokuta Steel Complex is poised for revitalization through cooperation with China. The temple fair concluded with interactive cultural exchanges, reinforcing the people-to-people theme of 2026. Participants from both sides said that the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties marks a strategic milestone for further advancing cooperation in industrialization, agriculture and talent development for the benefit of both countries. Guests and performers pose for a group photo at a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. (China Cultural Center Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) Nigerians perform at a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. (China Cultural Center Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) Nigerians perform a Chinese dance at a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. (China Cultural Center Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) Nigerian students perform during a temple fair to mark the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations and commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 7, 2026. The Chinese community in Nigeria's capital city of Abuja, together with Nigerian partners, on Saturday held the event. (China Cultural Center in Abuja/Handout via Xinhua) Fresh from an election win that far surpassed expectations, Thailand's prime minister sat casually on the floor of a conference room at his party headquarters Sunday, joking with reporters before getting up to declare victory. Anutin Charnvirakul is the scion of a construction dynasty and a hobbyist jet pilot, but championed Thailand's decriminalisation of cannabis and styles himself as a man of the people. He has a taste for street food, and appears on social media wearing a T-shirt and shorts while stir-frying with a wok, or performing 1980s Thai pop on the saxophone or piano. Advertisement Advertisement It is an approach that plays well with Thai voters, who see him as effective and, crucially, his own man, unlike some other elite heirs. At the same time he is seen as loyal to Thailand's traditional social order -- a stance that resonates with many in a still largely conservative society. The 59-year-old rode to election victory on a wave of patriotism stemming from the border conflict with Cambodia that left scores dead on both sides last year and displaced more than one million people. He openly declared on Sunday that "Nationalism is in the heart of everybody in the Bhumjaithai Party." Advertisement Advertisement "You can look at the colour," he added, referring to the blue of his party and the Thai national flag. He became prime minister in September after his predecessor and former coalition partner Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of now jailed former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, was ousted by court order. Anutin pulled out of a coalition with the Shinawatras' Pheu Thai party after Paetongtarn addressed Cambodia's former leader Hun Sen as "uncle" and referred to a Thai military commander as her "opponent" in a leaked phone call, causing widespread backlash. Soon after taking office, Anutin authorised the armed forces to take whatever action they saw fit on the border, without referring to the government first. Advertisement Advertisement Thailand's military took control of some disputed areas in the latest fighting in December, before the current ceasefire was enacted. "Nobody wants fighting, nobody wants conflict," he told AFP on the campaign trail, tucking into a bowl of noodle soup alongside party members in the capital's Chinatown neighbourhood. "But we have to defend our integrity and sovereignty." - Family fortune - His family fortune centres on Sino-Thai Engineering, a construction firm that has secured lucrative government contracts over the decades, including for Bangkok's main airport and the parliament building. Advertisement Advertisement Anutin's father was acting prime minister during a 2008 political crisis and went on to spend three years as interior minister. His political fortunes have long been intertwined with those of the Shinawatras, both as ally and rival. A New York-trained industrial engineer, Anutin in his early 30s joined Thaksin's party, then named Thai Rak Thai, and was banned from political activity for five years when it was dissolved in 2007. Grounded from politics, he learned to fly, collecting a small fleet of private planes he used to deliver donated organs to hospitals for transplants. He returned as leader of Bhumjaithai, a party that has proved something of a political chameleon, joining several government coalitions. He served as deputy to his three prime ministerial predecessors, including Paetongtarn. Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, he managed tourism-reliant Thailand's pandemic response as health minister under a military-led government, and made global headlines when he delivered in 2022 on a campaign promise to legalise cannabis, in an attempt to stimulate the economy. Three months after taking office as prime minister, Anutin dissolved parliament and called the election, a bet that has paid off handsomely. Titipol Phakdeewanich, a political scientist from Ubon Ratchathani University, said: "Nation, religion and monarchy -- those were the key elements of Thainess that Bhumjaithai symbolised for many voters." bur-sco/slb/des Mexican prosecutors on Monday confirmed the deaths of five of 10 employees of a Canadian mining company who were kidnapped two weeks ago in Mexico's violence-plagued Sinaloa state. The attorney general's office said it had identified five bodies found at a property in the municipality of Concordia and was working to identify "five more bodies." The workers, all Mexicans, according to local media, were kidnapped on January 23 from a silver mining project belonging to the Vancouver-based company Vizsla Silver. Advertisement Advertisement Vizsla Silver earlier issued a statement saying that it "has been informed by a number of families that their relatives... have been found deceased." It added that it was awaiting confirmation from Mexican authorities. Vizsla President Michael Konnert said the company was "devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life." "Our focus remains on the safe recovery of those who remain missing," he added. - Cartel violence - Abductions by armed groups are all too common in Mexico, where more than 120,000 people have vanished since the 1950s, many of them abducted and killed by drug cartels. Advertisement Advertisement It is rare, however, for international companies to be targeted. According to the workers' families, gunmen forcibly removed the men from a camp situated at the headquarters of Viszla's project in the small town of Panuco in Concordia district. Two of the men were engineers and one a geologist, according to local media. Concordia sits on silver, gold, lead and zinc deposits, making it a target for organized crime gangs, who cash in by carrying out kidnappings and extorting workers. Last week, Mexican authorities stepped up their search for the men, deploying more than 1,000 officers, three helicopters and two planes. Advertisement Advertisement Four people have been arrested in connection with the case. Sinaloa state is reeling from a surge in violence caused by a power struggle within the powerful Sinaloa cartel. The factional fighting has left more than 1,700 people dead and nearly 2,000 missing in just over a year. burs-cb/sla/nro If Tommy Tubervilles alleged Florida life makes you question his qualifications for Alabama governor, let me offer a few other concerns. Our senior U.S. senator has called most immigrants garbage. He compared city residents to rats. Tuberville said Black Americans do the crime. He attacked Muslim Americans in dangerous ways. Theres also the general unpreparedness hes brought to the U.S. Senate; his apparent belief that his only constituent is Donald Trump, and the strange influencer vibe that leads him to appear on a vile Sandy Hook deniers broadcast. Advertisement Advertisement But the residency question is important. For what it says about Tuberville and our state. Brian Lyman is the editor of the Alabama Reflector. We have a (mostly) clear-cut legal issue here. The Alabama Constitution requires candidates for governor to be resident citizens of this state at least seven years next before the date of their election. What seven years next means isnt perfectly clear. But at least one scholar of the state constitution thinks that legal precedent requires gubernatorial candidates to live in Alabam for seven continuous years. Kyle Whitmire at al.com has laid out the timeline. Tuberville was a loud and proud resident of Florida in 2017, saying in an ad filmed for ESPN that year that Santa Rosa Beach was a great place to live. Advertisement Advertisement Tuberville, facing questions about his love of the salt life, has pointed to a homestead exemption his wife and son claimed on Auburn property in October 2018 as proof of Alabama residency. Problem: He voted in Florida in 2018, after the exemption was granted. Another problem, as The Washington Post reported in 2023: Tuberville appeared to have sold his Alabama properties. Tubervilles office and then-Alabama Republican Party chair John Wahl insisted that he was still living in Auburn. (Tuberville added his name to the Auburn property deed in May, 2024). This is ambiguous evidence, at best. And GOP gubernatorial candidate Ken McFeeters, who has filed a formal complaint with the Alabama Republican Party, says travel receipts filed by Tuberville suggest hes spending most of his time in the Sunshine State. More: Improving Alabama means appealing to those who stopped voting | BRIAN LYMAN Advertisement Advertisement The senator could settle the issue by releasing state income tax forms. Alabama has a state income tax; Florida does not. If hes paid Alabama income taxes since 2018, he has a good case. Tuberville has not released those forms. Which means we have to rely on two shaky vessels to get to the truth. One is the Alabama Republican Party. It may pursue McFeeters complaint in good faith. Its unlikely to throw its leading gubernatorial candidate off the ballot. And over the weekend, it chose to reject McFeeters complaint, though it has not said why. That leaves the Alabama courts, where this seems destined to end up. Alabamians should have confidence that our appellate judges will reach a reasonable, objective conclusion after considering evidence, legal precedent and the language of the state Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Our all-Republican appellate courts give us no reason for that confidence, if recent history is a guide. In 2013, the Alabama Legislature passed a bill giving school districts the option of securing exemptions from school regulations. In a backroom deal, Republicans rewrote the law into a near-voucher bill the Alabama Accountability Act then jammed it through a conference committee and the House and Senate. A lower court judge found the rewritten bill violated numerous provisions of the Constitution, including a ban on legislation having more than two subjects. The Alabama Supreme Court said: no it didnt. As Associate Justice Mike Bolin put it, new matter may be included in an amended bill, so long as that new matter is germane to the general purpose. So if legislators ever want to take a bill giving bonuses to math teachers and add sections privatizing Alabama public schools, the Alabama Supreme Court says thats fine. As long as it has a Republican sponsor, I suppose. Advertisement Advertisement In an earlier Accountability Act suit in 2013, the court proclaimed again, with Bolin writing that The Alabama Constitution does not require the legislature to conduct its meetings in public. Section 57 of the Alabama Constitution requires the doors of both chambers to be open. Even the Alabama Legislature thought that went too far. Our justices in 2020 engaged in a tendentious reading of the Open Meetings Act to block the publics right to know about electricity prices. Justice Jay Mitchell, now a candidate for Alabama attorney general, blew through clear precedents to all but end IVF treatments in the state in 2024. Even the Alabama Legislature thought that went too far. Elected Republican judges keep showing they care more about GOP priorities than the rule of law. If Republicans need Tuberville on the ballot, its likely Republican judges will torture the statutes until Tubervilles position is secure. So its likely the verdict will be left to voters. And voters should consider how the residency issue speaks to Tubervilles willingness, or lack thereof, to be honest with the people he wants to govern. Given repeated opportunities to clear up the issue, he has chosen evasion. Advertisement Advertisement And when you couple the silence on that with the senators loud contempt for many Alabamians, voters may properly ask who Tuberville plans to serve as governor. Wherever he lives. Brian Lyman is the editor of Alabama Reflector. He has covered Alabama politics since 2006, and worked at the Montgomery Advertiser, the Press-Register and The Anniston Star. A 2024 Pulitzer finalist for Commentary, his work has also won awards from the Associated Press Managing Editors, the Alabama Press Association and Robert F. Kennedy Center for Human Rights. He lives in Auburn with his wife, Julie, and their three children. Alabama Reflector is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization. This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Tommy Tubervilles residency an Alabama issue | BRIAN LYMAN ATLANTA (AP) Jury selection got underway Monday in the trial of a man whose teenage son is accused of killing two students and two teachers at a Georgia high school in September 2024. Colin Gray faces 29 counts, including two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter and numerous counts of second-degree cruelty to children related to the shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder. He is one of a handful of parents around the country charged with crimes after their children are accused of committing acts of violence. An indictment says Gray committed cruelty to children by giving his son, Colt, access to a gun and ammunition after receiving sufficient warning that Colt Gray would harm and endanger the bodily safety of another. Second-degree murder, an unusual charge under Georgia law, is defined as causing the death of a child by committing the crime of cruelty to children. Advertisement Advertisement Killed in the shooting were teachers Richard Aspinwall, 39, and Cristina Irimie, 53, and two 14-year-old students, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo. Another teacher and eight other students were wounded. The shooting Investigators have said Colt Gray, who was 14 at the time, carefully planned the Sept. 4, 2024, shooting at the school northeast of Atlanta that is attended by 1,900 students. He wrote step-by-step plans for the assault in a notebook, including diagrams and potential body counts, a Georgia Bureau of Investigation agent testified at a hearing the month after the shooting. With a semiautomatic, assault-style rifle in his book bag, the barrel sticking out and wrapped in poster board, he boarded the school bus, investigators said. He left his second-period class and emerged from a bathroom with the gun and then shot people in a classroom and hallways, investigators said. Advertisement Advertisement Accusations against the father Colin Gray had given his son the gun as a gift the Christmas before the shooting and later, at his son's request, bought a larger magazine so the weapon could hold more rounds, an investigator testified during a pretrial hearing. Colin Gray knew his son was obsessed with school shooters, even having a shrine in his bedroom to Nikolas Cruz, the shooter in the 2018 massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, prosecutors have said. A GBI agent testified that the teen's parents had discussed their sons fascination with school shooters but decided that it was in a joking context and not a serious issue. Colin Gray was also aware his son's mental health had deteriorated, investigators testified. Seeking help from a counseling service weeks before the shooting, he wrote about his son: We have had a very difficult past couple of years and he needs help. Anger, anxiety, quick to be volatile. I dont know what to do. Advertisement Advertisement The trial The trial will be held in Winder, in Barrow County, where Apalachee High School is located. But jury selection is happening in Gainesville, in Hall County, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) away. Colin Gray's lawyer had sought a change of venue, arguing publicity may have tainted the opinion of potential Barrow County jurors. Prosecutors agreed, noting the impact the shooting had on the community. The defense was unhappy with the judge's selection of Hall County for the jury pool, acknowledging the convenience for jurors but arguing it was too close, remaining within the geographic epicenter of this tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement The judge in the case set bond for Gray at $500,000, but he has remained in custody since he was arrested the day after shooting. It's unknown how long jury selection will take or how long the trial will last once testimony gets underway. The judge has blocked off three weeks for jury selection and the trial. Other cases against parents There have been a number of cases around the country where prosecutors have chosen to charge parents when they believe there is evidence a parent contributed to violence attributed to a child. Jennifer and James Crumbley were the first parents in the U.S. to be held criminally responsible for a mass shooting at a school by a child. They were convicted months before the shooting at Apalachee High School and are serving 10-year prison terms for involuntary manslaughter. Advertisement Advertisement Their son, Ethan Crumbley, killed four students and wounded others at Michigans Oxford High School in 2021. Prosecutors faulted the Crumbleys for not securing a firearm at home and acting indifferently to signs of their sons deteriorating mental health. They said Ethans actions were foreseeable and the parents had failed to prevent the violence. Jeffrey Rupnow is charged with intentionally giving a dangerous weapon to a person under 18 causing death. His daughter, Natalie Rupnow, 15, killed a student and a teacher at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, and killed herself in December 2024. Robert Crimo Jr. pleaded guilty to misdemeanors and was sentenced for endorsing his sons Illinois gun permit in 2019 despite knowing Robert Crimo III had expressed suicidal thoughts. Crimo III killed seven people in 2022 at a Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, a northern suburb of Chicago. The case against Colt Gray Advertisement Advertisement Colt Gray was indicted on a total of 55 counts, including murder in the deaths of four people and 25 counts of aggravated assault. He has pleaded not guilty, but a lawyer for the teen said during a hearing in May that his client would likely be ready to plead guilty after a psychologist's report was prepared. New lawyers have started representing him since then. At a brief hearing in December, the judge said a status hearing in the case would be held in mid-March. A police chase ended in a violent crash early Sunday morning in Atwater Village, where a pickup truck went airborne and crashed onto two parked vehicles, startling residents from their sleep. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the DUI pursuit started just before 1 a.m. near Hoover Street and 95th Street. The driver of a black truck led officers north before hitting another vehicle in an intersection, losing control and rolling over. Advertisement Advertisement Ring doorbell footage captured the moment the truck turned sharply off Los Feliz Boulevard onto Brunswick Avenue, launched into the air and slammed onto the parked cars. The driver of the truck was hospitalized with serious injuries. One person in another vehicle reported pain, but police said no major injuries to bystanders were reported. "I thought someone had driven through my house, and when I came out here, there was a car on top of this car and the back part of the car was smashed on top of my car," said Lance Reyes. "I was just in shock. I didn't know what to think. It looked like it had fallen from the sky and just smashed down on everything." Some witnesses believed another person may have been inside the truck and taken into custody, though LAPD has not confirmed that detail. Police said the investigation into the pursuit and crash remains ongoing. The driver's name has not been released. Thursday was a quieter day in the medal department for the United States, but there were still plenty of highlights in Milan. The U.S. men's hockey team dominated, and Breezy Johnson's great week continued. On the Monday, February 9, 2026, episode of The Excerpt podcast: The Trump administration has been pushing back on the press in unprecedented ways by banning outlets from White House access, raiding a reporter's home and even arresting journalists. Are these actions even legal? Hit play on the player below to hear the podcast and follow along with the transcript beneath it. This transcript was automatically generated, and then edited for clarity in its current form. There may be some differences between the audio and the text. Podcasts: True crime, in-depth interviews and more USA TODAY podcasts right here Advertisement Advertisement Dana Taylor: It started with the banning of the Associated Press from certain White House events over the refusal to use the term Gulf of America instead of Gulf of Mexico. Then there was a recent FBI search of a Washington Post reporter's home. And then in January, two journalists, including former CNN host, Don Lemon, were arrested following an immigration protest at City's Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. What's happening to freedom of the press? Hello and welcome to USA TODAY's The Excerpt. I'm Dana Taylor. Today is Monday, February 9th, 2026. President Donald Trump wasn't particularly friendly to the press in his first term. In his second term, he's been downright openly hostile towards specific reporters and outlets in his Oval Office briefings. Should the media fight back? And if so, how? Here to help us dive into all things First Amendment is RonNell Andersen Jones, professor of law at the University of Utah. It's good to have you here, RonNell. RonNell Andersen Jones: Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for having me. Dana Taylor: Let's start with this latest story involving two reporters covering a recent church protest in Minnesota. Both have now been released. Can you give us some of the context here? RonNell Andersen Jones: Yeah. These two journalists, one, a local Minneapolis journalist and the other former CNN journalist, Don Lemon, accompanied protestors to the church in Minneapolis. The protestors were going to the church to protest a pastor there who is an ICE official. They documented and interviewed people who were there, both parishioners and protestors and the pastor, although it wasn't the pastor who was the subject of the protest. Advertisement Advertisement And then later were charged for violating two federal laws. One, a law that bans disruptions at houses of worship. And the other, a law that makes it a felony punishable up to 10 years to disrupt the exercise of constitutional rights of other people here, the exercise of the freedom of religion. And it was an extraordinary move. Never in the history of the country that I can find have journalists been charged under either of those statutes. And at an early stage, the government sought to charge them and a magistrate judge and an appellate judge declined to issue the arrest warrants saying that these acts of journalism warrant criminal behaviors or conspiracy to commit criminal behaviors, but this represents an aggressive move on the part of the administration to seek the grand jury indictment against them and to move forward with a criminal action against them on these charges. Dana Taylor: Beyond the rights of these individual reporters, it's hard not to assume that even if a judge dismisses the charges, the signal to the press from this administration is possibly intended to intimidate. For reporters working with larger established organizations like USA TODAY, there are teams of lawyers to fight the charges, but for freelancers who don't have access to those resources, these arrests may very well make them think twice next time. What are you hearing on this front? RonNell Andersen Jones: Advertisement Advertisement This is a grave concern for press freedom advocates, both domestically and internationally who are watching some of these developments. The individual arrests themselves are concerning, but the wider messaging is what's most concerning. There is a clear First Amendment doctrine that refers to the chilling effect. It's the notion that these sorts of actions by the government that infringe on freedom of speech or freedom of the press aren't just having an impact on the individual journalists here who are the targets of the government. They're having and are designed to have a wider impact on everyone else who is potentially practicing journalism and the sources who are potentially working with those who are practicing journalism. The idea is that it has this ripple effect and that those who think that they couldn't afford the legal battle that might be on the other end of it or who in this instance don't want them to be criminally charged will think twice before they engage in behavior that is critical of the government or that might be aggressive investigative journalism. And the overarching effect of this, the fear is that it quells important government on matters of public concern because people are making front end calculations to sort of stop the kind of coverage that they engage in. Dana Taylor: The ACLU or the American Civil Liberties Union has long championed freedom of the pressed causes. What are they saying? Advertisement Advertisement RonNell Andersen Jones: So lots of civil rights organizations, including the ACLU are condemning these sorts of moves. The concern that they're expressing is that this is part and parcel of a wider Democratic backsliding, that there's an interrelationship between press freedom and the backsliding of democracy more generally, that it's central to our conversations about self-government and the kind of policies that we want to have and the kinds of viewpoints that we want to advance with our government to be able to have a free flow of news coverage. The concern here that has been expressed by lots of these civil liberties organizations is that these become tools for government to avoid transparency or to reshape truth. And those sorts of concerns are broader than the individual rights of particular journalists. The Supreme Court has said lots of times that press freedom rights really aren't about special rights for journalists. They're about the rights for all of us. The journalists are standing in our stead and engaging in that behavior on our behalf. And so there's a wider democratic concern that's at play there. Dana Taylor: RonNell, I want to shift now to the recent FBI search on that Washington Post reporter's home. What happened there? Advertisement Advertisement RonNell Andersen Jones: The Department of Justice got a warrant to search the home of a Washington Post reporter named Hannah Nadinson. The search was broadly executed. They took laptops and a cell phone and a smartwatch and recording devices and a portable hard drive that the Washington Post says contained multiple terabytes of information, something like 30,000 emails, took all of this in this search of her home. A search of a journalist's home is a very big deal and really an unprecedented move and is governed by federal law in a way that is making this a real challenge. And all of the sort of dynamics about the wider chilling effect that we were just discussing come into play again here. The concerns are not just the target of the individual search, but all of the sources who might be swept up in that search. So that case is progressing through the court both to challenge the individual search, which press freedom advocates are concerned violated a clear federal law, but also to think about some of the wider constitutional concerns that are at play when we think about the Espionage Act, which is the statute that is likely to come into play here. Dana Taylor: Advertisement Advertisement And how have the Washington Post and the administration responded? RonNell Andersen Jones: So the administration's explanation is that they are investigating a very serious charge of an espionage act violation by another person, a potential source of this Post reporter. That individual was apparently a government contractor who is alleged to have misused, mishandled confidential classified information that he came into contact with over the course of his work. And the government has said that there were illegalities involved and that they were investigating those illegalities, and so they needed to search the reporter's home in order to tackle them. The Washington Post and the reporter have noted that there is a federal law. It's called the Privacy Protection Act, and it has a fairly strict ban on searching newspapers and reporters, homes, and newsrooms for work product and documentary materials that were gathered by the reporter in the course of news-gathering. And there are only very, very narrow exceptions. One problem that exists here is that the government itself didn't address that law. And so tussling with what exception it exists, I think is a part of the ongoing court battle here. One exception that does exist to that law is if the journalists themselves are the target of the investigation, that is they are suspected of committing a crime, then those searches are legal. And one large concern that press freedom advocates now have is that this might signal that the Justice Department believes that the journalist herself could somehow be implicated under the Espionage Act. That would be a radical expansion of the treatment of the Espionage Act and would be fraught with a lot of First Amendment concerns that we've discussed over the last decade in thinking about the scope and contours of that act. Advertisement Advertisement Dana Taylor: I also mentioned the White House ban on AP reporters to certain events last year because of their refusal to use Trump's preferred Gulf of America terminology. Of course, as a wire service, many hundreds of outlets around the world rely on their coverage to share with their audiences. So that came with a big economic cost to them. Did the AP ever get their access back? And if so, what did they have to do to lift the ban? RonNell Andersen Jones: Yeah, this case has been challenged in the courts. Initially, a lower court judge who was a Trump appointee ruled in favor of the AP and said that while the White House didn't need to open things up to reporters more generally, once they had done so, they couldn't engage in brazen viewpoint discrimination, eliminating the access on the grounds that the president didn't like that they refused to use his preferred words and phrases. The Appellate Court in DC heard this case as a procedural matter over the last summer and signaled that they would reverse when they got to the merits of the case, suggesting that this is at the President's discretion, that this isn't a public forum, and that particularly now that the White House Correspondence Association doesn't oversee this pool. The president himself and the White House itself does so. They sort of signal that they might see this as the equivalent of offering up an exclusive interview or an invitation to a private event, and that if you get the invitation, you get it. Advertisement Advertisement If you don't, you don't. The undercurrent of concern for press freedom advocates is that it is messaging that those who favor the president or the administration will have access and those who do not won't, which raises concerns for the sort of free flow of information on matters of public concern to people across the country. Dana Taylor: The Pentagon also implemented a new media policy last year forbidding any reporting with the DOD with any sources that were not officially sanctioned. As our listeners might imagine, investigative reporting on defense issues almost always involves confidential sources. What happened after this Pentagon announcement? RonNell Andersen Jones: Yes. This was a really rare instance of the entirety of the media really banding together to push back on this. A number of news organizations gathered together to issue a statement against it, opposing this policy, ABC and CBS and NBC and CNN, but they were also joined by Fox News. A lot of organizations across the media spectrum suggested that this was a bad policy and it was problematic. The policy itself really required them in order to keep their press passes, to sign on that they understood that soliciting information from a military official was tantamount to committing a crime, which sort of felt to them like it was a criminalizing, doing something as basic as seeking news tips. And dozens of reporters who had been there for a very long time, essentially all of the core of the Pentagon Press Corps surrendered their badges rather than submitting to these conditions. It was seen by press advocates as a really powerful show of support for press freedom, but of course what it leaves as a vacuum. We're left without the folks who had the knowledge and the experience and the insight into coverage of defense and military issues that have been there for a long time. A little more than a month ago, the New York Times filed suit against the policy, arguing that it violates the Constitution's due process and free speech and press freedom provisions. That case remains in the courts. Dana Taylor: And finally, I want to bring up the highly controversial settlement that CBS News made with the president after he sued them for airing what he called, "Nothing but fake corrupt anti-Trump propaganda." Despite publicly issuing a statement that the suit was completely without merit, the network settled with Trump for $16 million. Meanwhile, an $8 billion merger between Paramount Global, which owns CBS News and Skydance Media was awaiting approval from the FCC. Tell me about the suit and what message it sent to other media outlets that Trump has sued. RonNell Andersen Jones: The CBS suit is actually just one of a really quite large number of suits in which Trump appears as a plaintiff in either defamation cases or cases that are similar to defamation cases in that they are civil suits that challenge a decision to run something that cast the president in a light that he found disfavorable. The President of the United States right now is one of the most prominent and most prolific defamation plaintiffs in the country. In addition to CBS, we've seen suits against ABC and the BBC and the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal and the Pulitzer Board and the Des Moines Register. He's been a very active litigant in cases that are designed to punish and to push back on the coverage in these spaces. So we have this real environment in the defamation law space that is quite unique from anything that we've seen, and it's part and parcel of this wider framework of the presidential pushback against the press. Dana Taylor: It's good speaking with you. Thank you so much for being on the excerpt RonNell. RonNell Andersen Jones: Thanks for having me. Dana Taylor: Thanks to our senior producer, Kaely Monahan, her production assistant. Our executive producer is Laura Beatty. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com. Thanks for listening. I'm Dana Taylor. I'll be back tomorrow morning with another episode of USA TODAY's The Excerpt. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Was the FBIs search of a Washington Post reporters home legal? | The Excerpt Trump Administration refuses to let Babson College student return to the US, court documents show The Trump Administration is refusing to allow a Babson College student who was wrongfully deported to return to the United States. The Trump Administration filed court documents last week. Earlier this month, 25 Investigates reported that Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old Babson College freshman, was deported just days after she was detained at Logan Airport. Belloza was traveling to Texas to visit her family for Thanksgiving and said she did not realize her student visa had expired. Advertisement Advertisement Belloza was quickly deported to Honduras. A federal judge ordered that Belloza not be deported. Despite that order, the Department of Homeland Security violated the judges directive and deported her to Honduras. Federal officials later admitted the mistake in court. The judge said that the State Department could give her a non-immigrant student visa to let her finish college. U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Folley said that was Unfeasible. The filing said that Belloza can apply for a non-immigrant student visa but would make her show she is a resident in a foreign country which [she] has no intention of abandoning. Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing an America First Arms Transfer Strategy to boost domestic defense production through foreign weapons sales. The directive aims to leverage international military exports to expand U.S. manufacturing capacity. The strategy marks a shift in how Washington approaches arms sales, explicitly prioritizing American industrial interests over traditional diplomatic considerations. It directs federal agencies to use foreign purchases to fund domestic production lines and attract new defense contractors. Under the order, the Secretary of War must create a sales catalog within 120 days listing priority weapons systems for allied purchases. The document emphasizes selling platforms aligned with U.S. operational needs and the development of production capacity. Advertisement Advertisement American-manufactured military equipment is the best in the world, resulting in American dominance across international defense exports, the order states. It is critical that the United States fully use this comparative advantage in arms transfers as both a tool of foreign policy and a tool to expand domestic production and transfer. The directive establishes clear preferences for arms recipients. Countries that invest in self-defense, occupy strategic geography, or contribute to U.S. economic security will receive priority consideration for weapons purchases. To streamline the traditionally bureaucratic arms transfer process, Trump ordered several procedural changes. These include developing clearer criteria for weapons monitoring and reducing third-party transfer restrictions that have frustrated allies. A new Promoting American Military Sales Task Force will coordinate implementation across government agencies. The group, chaired by the National Security Advisors office, will meet quarterly to ensure sales align with strategic objectives. Advertisement Advertisement The order also mandates quarterly publication of performance metrics on foreign military sales processing times. This transparency measure aims to address longstanding industry complaints about opaque government timelines. Federal agencies must submit various implementation plans within 60 to 120 days. These include industry engagement strategies and recommendations for encouraging foreign procurement of U.S.-made defense articles. The strategy explicitly links arms transfers to domestic reindustrialization goals. It directs officials to use foreign capital to support supply chain resilience and incentivize nontraditional defense companies to enter the market. Donald Trumps border tsar warned months ago that the administrations aggressive and sweeping immigration crackdown risked losing public support. Tom Homan, a veteran homeland security official, said in June that prioritising immigrants who had committed crimes would keep the faith of the American people. The 64-year-old was deployed to Minneapolis at the end of January to calm the unrest that followed the killings of two US citizens by federal agents and take control of the highly criticised immigration operation in the Democrat-leaning city. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trump is understood to be concerned about the optics of the immigration crackdown, previously led by Kristi Noem, the homeland security secretary, and Gregory Bovino, the border patrol chief, in which children and people who had not committed crimes were caught up. In a June 16 interview for NBC, published for the first time on Monday, Mr Homan said: I think the vast majority of the American people think criminal illegal aliens need to leave. And if we stick to that prioritisation, I think we keep the faith of the American people. He added: And I think the more we do that, the more the American people will support what President Trumps doing. We got to do it and weve got to do it in a humane manner. ICE agents have come under heavy scrutiny for their aggressive operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota - John Moore/2026 Getty Images On Feb 4, the US president admitted that his administration needs to use a softer touch to carry out his mass deportation campaign. Advertisement Advertisement His gear shift followed growing calls from Republicans that the heavy-handed tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on the ground were fast becoming a political liability that put his entire immigration agenda at risk. In the face of cross-party and nationwide outcry following the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both 37, Mr Trump pledged to de-escalate. He replaced Mr Bovino, the hardline commander at large of Border Control who had been leading the immigration operation in the city, with Mr Homan to diffuse the tensions and scale back its most aggressive tactics. He started by withdrawing 700 federal agents from the 3,000-strong force. This is smarter enforcement, not less enforcement, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Homan, who served under the Obama administration and both Trump administrations, has long favoured a less confrontational approach that focuses on going after immigrants with a criminal history or deportation order. There has been a 2,450 per cent increase in the number of people with no criminal record being held in ICE detention, according to a new report by the American Immigration Council. by Xinhua writers Habtamu Worku, Liu Fangqiang ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- African leaders will convene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from Feb. 11 to 15 for the 39th African Union (AU) Summit, with safeguarding continental water security expected to rank high on the agenda alongside persistent peace and security challenges. Themed "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063," the annual gathering will begin with a meeting of the AU Executive Council on Feb. 11-12, followed by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government on Feb. 14-15. Officials and analysts say the summit comes at a pivotal moment, as the continent seeks to translate long-standing priorities into concrete initiatives that can advance Africa's development and security. SUMMIT AT CRITICAL JUNCTURE "This year's summit arrives at a critical juncture, particularly as the second 10-year implementation plan of Agenda 2063 gains momentum," Costantinos Bt. Costantinos, a former advisor to the AU and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, told Xinhua. He said the meeting's significance lies in its relevance in moving beyond agenda-setting and serving as a platform for advancing a resource-secure, food-sovereign, and peaceful continent. "By endorsing concrete outcomes of continental significance, African leaders at the summit are expected to bridge the enduring gap between continental aspiration and attainment," he said. The scholar noted that the summit's importance is further amplified by a complex global landscape, marked by geopolitical rivalries, economic fragmentation, surging protectionism, and dwindling multilateralism. "The summit must, therefore, serve as a strategic council where African leaders forge a unified front to strengthen Africa's global positioning as a key player in the emerging world order," he said. In preparation for the summit, African envoys last week concluded a meeting of the AU Committee of Permanent Representatives (PRC), finalizing draft agendas and work programs. In addition to water security, the envoys also highlighted key priorities, including peace and security, inclusive economic growth, good governance, education and healthcare, and Africa's position in global affairs. Expressing concern over the "increasingly complex global environment," AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called for strengthening solidarity, unity, and self-reliance to safeguard the continent's collective interests at the PRC meeting. Youssouf reaffirmed the 55-member continental bloc's commitment to working closely with members to ensure a successful summit capable of addressing Africa's emerging and perennial challenges, advancing peace and development, and promoting Africa's voice on the global stage. WATER SECURITY TOPS AGENDA Announcing this year's focus, the AU said that Africa's aspirations for economic growth, social transformation, regional integration, trade, peace, and security "are all dependent on assuring sustainable water availability for all purposes." Recent AU data show that more than 300 million Africans lack access to clean drinking water, while over 700 million people across the continent live without adequate sanitation. With Africa's population projected to reach 1.6 billion by 2030, the AU warned that population growth and rapid urbanization will require at least 50 percent more food and a tenfold increase in water demand for energy production. Emphasizing the critical significance of this year's theme, Youssouf said it underscores water's critical role in Africa's development and its growing importance as a global geopolitical issue. According to Costantinos, the move elevates water from a developmental challenge to a strategic and cross-cutting imperative, central to Africa's development, climate resilience, and stability. Addressing water security and sanitation challenges, he said, will require effectively harnessing the nexus between water, energy, agriculture, and poverty dynamics. With climate change further exacerbating the continent's water stress, threatening agricultural livelihoods, energy production, and public health, the AU warned that the inability to address this challenge will lead to more food insecurity, disease burden, human displacement, conflict, and obstruct economic development. ADDRESS PERENNIAL SECURITY PERILS Expectations are also high that the summit will address the root causes of insecurity, which are increasingly intertwined with governance deficits and broader vulnerabilities. Highlighting a challenging security context, the AUC chief acknowledged ongoing peace and security perils across different parts of Africa, notably in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Sudan, Libya, the Sahel region, as well as the rise in unconstitutional changes of government. Youssouf underscored the need "to act with urgency" to address these crises and advance reforms, particularly within the African peace and security architecture. Costantinos said the summit is expected to strengthen the AU's role in safeguarding continental stability through "decisive political interventions." This, he noted, could include fully operationalizing the African Standby Force and empowering the AU Peace and Security Council to authorize rapid deployments supported by predictable financing. "The ongoing crises in Sudan and eastern DRC, along with challenges posed by terrorism and extremism, serve as immediate litmus tests for the AU and its leaders as they convene in Addis Ababa," he said. "The summit is expected to produce concrete outcomes aimed at facilitating timely resolutions to Africa's security crises through African solutions." President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday reaffirming the ongoing national emergency with respect to Iran and establishing a process to impose additional tariffs on imports from countries that acquire goods or services from Iran, according to a White House fact sheet. The order authorizes the United States to impose additional tariffs on imports from any country determined to be directly or indirectly purchasing, importing, or otherwise acquiring goods or services from Iran. The White House said the measure is intended to protect U.S. national security, foreign policy interests, and the American economy. Under the order, the Secretary of State, Secretary of Commerce, and the United States Trade Representative are authorized to take necessary actions to implement the tariff system, including issuing rules and guidance related to enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement The White House said the president may modify the order if circumstances change, including in response to retaliation or if Iran or an affected country takes what the administration described as significant steps to address the national emergency and align with U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives. In its fact sheet, the White House cited Irans pursuit of nuclear capabilities, support for terrorist organizations, ballistic missile development, and regional destabilization as ongoing threats requiring a sustained response. The White House described Iran as the worlds leading state sponsor of terrorism and said its actions constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the United States and its allies. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, President Trump announced earlier this year that countries doing business with Iran would face a 25% tariff on their trade with the United States. The new executive order formalizes that policy and establishes an implementation framework. The action comes amid continued legal scrutiny of the presidents authority to impose broad tariffs under national emergency powers. The U.S. Supreme Court has not yet issued a ruling in cases challenging the administrations use of emergency authority to levy tariffs, leaving uncertainty for businesses and trading partners as the administration continues to deploy trade measures tied to national security. Advertisement Advertisement In December, the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions targeting Iranian and Venezuelan individuals and entities linked to drone, missile, and weapons-related cooperation between the two governments. Treasury officials said the action was intended to disrupt Irans military-industrial network and its overseas partnerships. The executive order also arrives as U.S. authorities continue reviewing Irans international partnerships. In prior reporting, The Dallas Express detailed whistleblower-provided materials submitted to U.S. officials describing extensive financial, industrial, and resource cooperation between Iran and Venezuela, including activity spanning energy, mining, and state-linked commercial arrangements. The materials have not resulted in formal findings, and no U.S. agency has publicly confirmed their contents or conclusions. The White House said the Iran-related order builds on actions taken during President Trumps first term, including withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, reimposing sanctions, and designating Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Officials said the administrations current approach reflects what it described as a continuation of maximum pressure aimed at denying Iran any path to a nuclear weapon while holding countries that engage economically with the Iranian regime accountable. Ever since the United States entrusted its presidency to a would-be insurrectionist in January 2025, many Americans have feared for the integrity of their nations future elections. And not without reason. President Donald Trump made his contempt for democracy clear on January 6, 2021. Shortly after retaking office last year, he pardoned the rioters whod stormed the Capitol in his name, gutted the agency that protects Americas voting infrastructure from cyberattacks, attempted to unconstitutionally deter the counting of many mail-in ballots, and threatened to prosecute officials who had faithfully administered the 2020 election. If concerns that Trump might unduly influence the 2026 midterms arent new, however, theyve grown markedly more plausible over the past two weeks. Key takeaways Trump has said he regrets not ordering the military to seize voting machines in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement The president has called for Republicans to take over the voting in at least 15 places. The FBIs seizure of ballots and voter information from Fulton County, Georgia, sets an alarming precedent. Despite these threats, experts believe election interference attempts will likely fail due to institutional resistance. In late January, the FBI seized 2020 election records ballots, voter rolls, and scanner images from a government facility in Fulton County, Georgia. This raid represented a new frontier in the presidents use of federal law enforcement to advance his conspiratorial claims of electoral impropriety. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, as ICE agents brutalized and killed protesters in Minnesota, US Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote a letter to that states governor, Tim Walz, in which she appeared to propose a bizarre quid pro quo: If Walz wished to see an end to the chaos in Minnesota and, implicitly, a pullback in ICE operations there he should give the Department of Justice access to his states voter rolls. If the subtext of these actions was unclear, the president spelled it out this week. In an interview with his former deputy FBI director Dan Bongino, Trump said that Republicans in Washington, DC, should take over the voting in at least 15 places. These developments came amid a decline in the GOPs poll numbers. And they have intensified fears that the president may try to preserve his partys control of Congress through undemocratic means. For anybody who doubted that this administration is laying the foundation to interfere in elections, the deluge of activity over the last two weeks should lay those doubts to rest, said Wendy Weiser, vice president of democracy at the Brennan Center for Justice, a legal think tank at NYU Law School. Advertisement Advertisement This interference could take many forms. But recent events have increased experts level of concern about two possibilities in particular: That the Trump administration will try to seize ballots and voting machines from key jurisdictions before votes have been fully counted. That Trump will deploy ICE or other federal agents to the vicinity of critical polling places, so as to deter turnout among voters in general and those with undocumented family members, in particular. Below, I explain how recent events have made these hypotheticals more thinkable and why the administrations efforts to unduly sway the midterms in its favor are, nonetheless, unlikely to succeed. The nightmare scenario The nightmare scenario for this years elections has long gone something like this: Control of the House comes down to a small number of close races. Republicans lead on Election Day in many of these contests, but their advantage steadily erodes as mail-in ballots arrive. The White House attributes these adverse trends to mass voter fraud and demands a halt to vote counting. Advertisement Advertisement When states refuse to comply, the White House orders the military to seize ballots and voting machines from pivotal precincts before all votes have been tallied. The chain of custody over these ballots breaks down, making the elections true winners impossible to determine. The Houses incumbent GOP majority then asserts the authority to seat the Republican candidates in the contested races. American democracy, as weve known it, ends. Even before the past two weeks, there was reason to take this hypothetical seriously. Indeed, throughout its first year in office, the second Trump administration appeared to be laying the groundwork for such treachery. In an executive order last spring, Trump asserted that, if a mail-in ballot arrives after Election Day, states cannot legally count it. Currently, many states including Nevada and Virginia count ballots that arrive shortly after Election Day, if they were postmarked on time. In that same executive order, Trump called on the Election Assistance Commission to decertify every voting machine in the United States and then recertify only those that met an exacting set of requirements. As The Atlantics David Graham notes, its not even clear that the government could procure enough voting machines to meet these new standards in time for Novembers midterms. Advertisement Advertisement Regardless, courts blocked both of these measures. Yet each established a rationale for the administration to reject any future election results that it did not like: This November, several states will count mail ballots in a manner that the White House has formally declared illegal, while virtually every precinct in the country will use voting machines that it has deemed untrustworthy. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has the constitutional authority to judge the qualifications of its own Members. And in the wake of a closely contested race in 1985, the House did choose to override a state-certified election result, and seat the candidate who had officially lost, on the basis of its own recount. Were the White House to impede vote counting in critical contests this November, it is conceivable that House Republicans could act on this precedent. The Fulton County raid offers a legal blueprint for stealing an election The FBIs raid in Fulton County makes this series of events a bit easier to envision. That raids ostensible aim was to search for evidence of voter fraud. But the presidents allegations of such malfeasance are baseless. Fulton Countys 2020 results have already been recounted, audited, and challenged in court multiple times. And the legitimacy of those results has been unfailingly affirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Yet the administration was nonetheless able to secure a search warrant from a magistrate judge to seize the countys ballots. The White Houses success in garnering judicial approval for its confiscation of voting records despite the overtly political and legally dubious nature of its investigation has unnerved many legal experts. And some now fear that Trump could conceivably win a magistrates approval to seize midterm ballots before they have been counted. The nightmare scenario used to be that Trump would invoke the Insurrection Act and have the military seize ballots and machines from a swing state on election night, said Derek Clinger, senior counsel at the State Democracy Research Initiative at the University of Wisconsin Law School. But Fulton County suggests a much more plausible scenario: one where the seizure of ballots is conducted with the appearance of a legal process. I think that approach is both more likely to happen and also harder to challenge in real time. Trump may be drumming up a national security rationale for seizing voting machines This said, what Clinger describes as the old worst-case scenario in which Trump orders the military to interfere with vote counting, on grounds of national security has also become more thinkable in recent days. Advertisement Advertisement To see why, one must consider the oddest aspect of the Fulton County raid: the fact that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard personally attended it. The DNI (aka Americas spy chief) has no statutory role in overseeing the enforcement of federal election law. Gabbards involvement therefore initially mystified many current and former government officials. But the Wall Street Journal subsequently revealed that Gabbard had been tasked with leading an administration-wide effort to find evidence of foreign interference in the 2020 election. This week, we learned that, as part of that effort, Gabbard oversaw an investigation into alleged cyberattacks on Puerto Ricos election infrastructure. Specifically, the probe reportedly tried and failed to find proof that Venezuela had hacked voting machines on the island. I think it is, tragically, an unfortunate possibility that ICE paramilitary forces will be misused in an attempt to deter people from participating in elections. Justin Levitt, former DOJ official There is no public evidence that any foreign government interfered in the 2020 election. But Trump and his allies have long taken a the more, the merrier approach to explaining away his defeat that year: In their account, mass voter fraud by undocumented immigrants, chicanery by American election administrators, and cyberattacks from Venezuelan hackers were all responsible for Joe Bidens victory. Advertisement Advertisement That last theory first took off in November 2020, when Trumps attorney Sidney Powell falsely claimed that the voting machine companies Dominion and Smartmatic were secretly Venezuelan. In Powells telling, those firms machines were designed by the Chavez regime to facilitate election rigging. It quickly became gospel on parts of the right that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro had exploited secret programming within Dominions machines to flip votes to Biden. In December 2020, on the basis of such conspiracy theories, Powell pitched the president on an audacious plan: Declare a national security emergency and order the National Guard to seize voting machines in swing states. In an interview with the New York Times last month, Trump said that he regretted not acting on this advice. Given this context, Gabbards presence at the Fulton County raid and her newly revealed search for evidence of Venezuelan hacking in Puerto Rico are alarming. They indicate that the White House may be trying to engineer a pretense for (illegally) seizing voting machines this November, in the name of protecting Americas national security. Such a plan would be consistent with remarks that Cleta Mitchell a conservative lawyer, Stop the Steal activist, and outside adviser to Gabbards election interference probe made last fall. Advertisement Advertisement In September, Mitchell said that the president is limited in his role with regard to elections, except where there is a threat to the national sovereignty of the United States. She suggested that Trump was therefore thinking that he will exercise some emergency powers to protect the federal elections going forward. How ICE could chill voter participation Finally, recent events have also amplified fears that the administration will use ICE as a means of voter suppression. Bondis attempt to extract sensitive voter information from Minnesota by implicitly threatening to prolong intensive ICE operations in that state if it failed to comply alarmed many Democrats. To some in the party, Bondis request signaled that the administration sees immigration enforcement as a tool for meddling in elections. Specifically, they fear that the White House may order ICE operations in the vicinity of key polling places on Election Day, so as to deter turnout. Their reasoning is simple: If ICE is harassing residents and causing traffic jams in heavily Democratic precincts, fewer Americans will make it to the voting booth in those areas. And voters with undocumented family members may be especially likely to stay home. I think it is, tragically, an unfortunate possibility that ICE paramilitary forces will be misused in an attempt to deter people from participating in elections, said Justin Levitt, a former DOJ official and professor at Loyola Law School. Why American democracy will (probably) survive Nevertheless, although experts are taking these hypotheticals more seriously, they generally believe that Trumps attempts at election interference will fail. There is a very high risk that the administration will use every tool at its disposal to get voting machines or ballots in the course of an upcoming election, the Brennan Centers Weiser told me. But I dont think there is a high risk that they will succeed. Weiser and others warned against reading too much into the administrations success at securing a search warrant for Fulton Countys 2020 voting records. I think every magistrate judge in the country would understand the difference between a search warrant to seize materials for an election that happened five years ago and a search warrant to seize election materials from an election in progress, Levitt said. I understand why people are worried. But its not remotely the same. Further, contrary to Mitchells claims, there is no clause of the Constitution that gives the president authority over election administration, in the event of a foreign attack (whether real or imagined). Thus, any attempt to seize ballots or voting machines through military order would likely encounter vigorous resistance from the judiciary, elected officials, and perhaps, from the armed forces themselves. Indeed, Trumps mere remarks about taking control of election administration provoked rebukes from some Republicans this week. And one heartening lesson of the past month is that such backlash can still constrain the president: After Border Patrols killing of Alex Pretti sparked bipartisan criticism, Trump demoted the agencys commander and pulled 700 ICE agents out of Minnesota. In an interview Wednesday night, Trump indicated that these moves were motivated by negative press coverage, telling NBC News of the shooting, I hate even talking about it. Two people [get killed] out of tens of thousands and you get bad publicity. Needless to say, were the White House to order the military to interrupt vote counting, Trump would suffer even worse publicity. Meanwhile, although it would be outrageous for the president to use ICE as a voter suppression tool, it would also be highly unlikely to flip elections in his favor. Trump wants to project ICE as an all-powerful force everywhere, Levitt said. And they are, as Minneapolis is proving emphatically, not. There simply arent enough ICE personnel to blanket a modestly large city. We live in a big country. And it is hard to control through fear. Even in the Twin Cities where Trump deployed some 3,000 immigration enforcement agents ICEs presence seems to have mobilized Democratic voters, rather than deterring them. In a special election on January 27 for Minnesota House district 64A, the Democratic candidate defeated her Republican opponent by a 91-point margin. In 2024, a Democrat had won the seat by 66.6 percentage points. There is clearly an effort afoot to interfere in our elections and that is something that people should be alarmed about, Weiser said. But this can be thwarted. And it must be. BOSTON (SHNS) President Donald Trump has reopened a long-running fight over ocean conservation and fishing rights, ordering commercial fleets back into federally protected waters off New England and setting up another legal showdown. Trump on Friday revoked Biden-era restrictions and again opened the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument about 150 miles off Cape Cod to commercial fishing, a move that drew criticism from environmental advocates and prompted the Conservation Law Foundation to say it is prepared to sue once again. The decision reignited a decade-old conflict between the fishing industry and conservation groups over the fate of nearly 5,000 square miles of deep-sea canyons and underwater mountains that scientists say shelter rare corals, endangered whales and fish. Advertisement Advertisement In his proclamation, Trump said the ban on commercial fishing was unnecessary, writing that appropriately managed commercial fishing would not put the objects of historic and scientific interest that the monument protects at risk. He argued that many fish in the area are highly migratory and not unique to the monument, and that a host of other laws enacted after the Antiquities Act provide specific protection for other plant and animal resources both within and outside the monument. The move marks the fourth time in less than a decade that a president has flipped federal policy on the monument, underscoring how sharply divided elected officials, advocates and coastal communities remain. The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument was created in 2016 by President Barack Obama under the Antiquities Act, protecting 4,913 square miles of ocean where the Atlantic meets the continental shelf. Recreational fishing was allowed, but commercial fishing was banned. The area includes three underwater canyons deeper than the Grand Canyon and four seamounts extinct underwater volcanoes that rise thousands of meters from the ocean floor. The monument protects habitat for endangered sperm, fin and sei whales, Kemps ridley sea turtles, seabirds and fragile deep-sea corals, some thousands of years old. In 2016, then-Secretary of State John Kerry said reckless fishing practices were decimating marine resources. Advertisement Advertisement Trump first reversed Obamas decision in 2020, lifting the commercial fishing ban while leaving the monuments boundaries intact. President Joe Biden restored the prohibition in 2021, citing the areas unique geological features that anchor vulnerable ecological communities threatened by varied uses, climate change, and related impacts. Trumps Friday proclamation again returns policy to his 2020 approach. Trumps order relies heavily on existing federal protections, arguing that laws such as the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act already safeguard vulnerable species and habitats, making a commercial fishing ban unnecessary. Environmental groups counter that those protections are not substitutes for a fully protected marine monument and warn that allowing commercial fishing risks turning the area into what they call a paper park. The Conservation Law Foundation told the News Service it is prepared to sue the administration once more. Advertisement Advertisement The group called Trumps action a flagrant abuse of executive power that will pave the way for destructive activities that harm coastal communities, marine life, and ocean health. CLF said the decision is illegal and flies in the face of public opinion, citing a 2022 poll of 3,500 New Englanders showing more than 80 percent favored permanently protected ocean areas. The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the most biologically productive areas in the Atlantic Ocean. It deserves our full protection, said Erica Fuller, senior counsel at CLF. This latest attempt by the Trump administration to undermine the monument is not only unlawful, but it also demonstrates a blatant disregard for the health of our oceans. We will not stand by while his administration destroys vital habitats that are irreplaceable in our marine environment. Weve fought this battle before, and we are ready to fight it again. CLF, along with the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Center for Biological Diversity, sued the Trump administration over the 2020 proclamation and intervened in a 2018 federal suit challenging the monuments creation. According to CLF, both the federal district court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled that the monument was created legally. The group says Trump again lacks authority to roll back core protections. Fishing industry advocates applauded the decision. Advertisement Advertisement By reopening the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts to commercial fishing, fairness, transparency, and science-based governance has been restored to the affected fisheries, said Bob Vanasse, executive director of Saving Seafood. Vanasse said Trumps action reflects a clear understanding of a simple truth: commercial fishing in the United States is already governed by the most comprehensive, science-based, and publicly accountable regulatory system in the world, pointing to the Magnuson-Stevens Act. He criticized the original 2016 designation as a unilateral decision that excluded fishermen without public hearings, without a cost-benefit analysis, and without input from those whose livelihoods were affected. New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, who leads the city thats home to the nations highest-value fishing port, warned Congress during a hearing in 2016 that the monument designation process risked sidelining fishing communities. Appearing before the House Natural Resources Committee shortly after the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument was created, Mitchell said the process lacks sufficient amounts of all the ingredients that good policy-making requires: scientific rigor, direct industry input, transparency, and a deliberate pace. Advertisement Advertisement Scientists and environmental groups strongly disagreed. This monument supports amazing species from the seafloor to the sea surface, and we see evidence of that during every aerial survey. Removing protections for Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument puts these species at risk, said Dr. Jessica Redfern, associate vice president of ocean conservation science in the New England Aquariums Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, said on Friday. Scientists say the steep underwater terrain of the protected area creates nutrient-rich upwelling that supports dense marine life, from plankton to the worlds largest animals, including blue whales. Massachusetts political leaders have long been caught in the middle, and were notably quiet following Trumps latest move. Advertisement Advertisement When Obama designated the monument in 2016, then-Gov. Charlie Baker said he was deeply disappointed, arguing the decision undermined Massachusetts fishermen and followed a public input process that falls far short of any meaningful stakeholder process. Sent her predecessors comments and asked to share her thoughts on Trumps latest decision to rescind restrictions of the protected waters, Gov. Maura Healeys office did not respond. Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation also shared concerns in 2015 over the stakeholder engagement process, and urged the Obama administration to expand public engagement before acting. While you have clear authority under the Antiquities Act to designate national monuments, we ask that you engage stakeholders further before making a final decision by expanding your stakeholder engagement efforts to include additional opportunities for our Massachusetts constituents to express their views on the potential designations in the context of ongoing conservation efforts, said a letter signed by Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey and Reps. Stephen Lynch, William Keating and Seth Moulton in 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Asked Monday about Trumps move and their earlier calls for a more robust public comment process, only one of the offices of the above lawmakers responded to the News Service. Congressman Keating continues to believe that stakeholder engagement and comprehensive public input should be the cornerstone of any decision made under the Antiquities Act, including the conflicting decisions made by Presidents Trump, Biden, and Obama surrounding the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument Any changes to monument protections must be handled through a transparent, public rulemaking process that respects community input, said Keating communications director Chris Matthews. With CLF signaling another lawsuit, the future of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument once again appears headed to the courts and subject to the next political tide. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. WASHINGTON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The Trump administration is trying to make it harder for fired federal employees to get their jobs back, according to a government plan released on Monday, by limiting their right to appeal their dismissal to an independent board. (Reporting by Courtney Rozen) U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie meets constituents on a tour of his Kentucky district on Sept. 24, 2025, in Wurtland. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley) Flaring midterm election tensions among Kentucky Republicans were on display over the weekend after a microphone was taken away from U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie during a Lincoln Day Dinner. Meanwhile, Republican Massie, who faces a Trump-endorsed challenger, took the Republican president to task on national television Sunday for posting a racist video and criticizing Massies wife. Advertisement Advertisement As Kentuckians prepare to vote this year for members of Congress, including electing a successor to U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Republican presidents eagerness to defeat Massie is casting a national spotlight on the Kentucky GOP. Its also seeping into the U.S. Senate race as Republican candidates vie for an endorsement by Trump who easily carried Kentucky in all three of his elections. Videos that have gone viral on social media show state House Speaker David Osborne taking the microphone away from the congressman, who is seeking reelection against a primary challenger recruited by President Donald Trump. Massie was speaking at the Oldham County Republicans Lincoln Day Dinner. Massie, who spoke for about eight minutes, said he wanted to take a little extra time to defend his wife, Carolyn Grace Moffa, after Trump attacked her online last week. Trump said on Truth Social that Moffa was supposedly a Radical Left flamethrower. Shelbyville Republican Ed Gallrein, left, takes a photo with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. (Photo provided by Gallrein campaign) She is a former staffer for U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, another Kentucky Republican, and has voted for Trump three times, Massie previously said. Advertisement Advertisement This will be the first and last time I respond to the presidents tweet, and I wouldnt even respond to it if Ed Gallrein hadnt retweeted it, Massie said during the Lincoln Day dinner. I feel like a woman needs defended, and Im going to defend her here tonight. Gallrein, a former Navy SEAL and Shelby County farmer, is Massies Trump-backed Republican opponent. Osborne can be seen stepping toward Massie in the videos around the six-minute mark. Massie continued to talk and was critical of Gallrein, who also attended the dinner. Eventually, another person walks up from a table in front of the lectern. Come up here and hug me, Massie said to the person and Osborne while holding his arms out before returning to his remarks. Osborne then takes the microphone from the lectern. Advertisement Advertisement According to one video of Massies speech, shared by Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Farris, someone in the crowd said after Massie leaves the lectern, Welcome to the snake pit, baby! The Louisville Courier-Journal reported that Massie left the dinner with some of his supporters after his speech and they got drinks at a local restaurant. Spokespeople for Massie did not immediately return a request for comment Monday. Kentucky House Speaker David Osborne adjourns a joint legislative session after Gov. Andy Beshears State of the Commonwealth address, Jan. 8, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Arden Barnes) Lincoln Day Dinners are annual fundraisers for county Republican parties. They often draw candidates who hope to speak directly to the party faithful. After the dinner, the Oldham County Republican Party said on Facebook that all campaigns were given explicit instructions on how long they were permitted to speak well in advance of the event to allow them to prepare for the opportunity. The post did not list the exact minutes allotted to the candidates. Osborne, who represents Oldham County in the Kentucky House, was entrusted with enforcing these rules, the party said. Advertisement Advertisement Massie represents the 4th Congressional District, which includes Oldham County. The county partys statement also said that Massie, Gallrein, and U.S. Senate candidate Nate Morris all went over their allotted time and were ushered from the stage when they continued past their time limit. When asked for additional comment, a spokesperson for Osborne referred the Lantern to the Oldham County Republican Partys statement. Gallrein posted a clip on X of Osborne taking the microphone away with the caption Massie Meltdown! A spokesperson for Gallrein referred the Lantern to the X post on Monday and declined to give additional comment. Trump effect in Kentucky U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, one of three Republican frontrunners for U.S. Senate, endorsed Gallrein against Massie last week. Barr posted on X a photo of himself with Gallrein at the Oldham County Lincoln Day Dinner. Morris quickly followed suit, also endorsing Gallrein against Massie. Advertisement Advertisement Massie again took issue with the Republican president over the weekend. Massie has split with Trump by pushing for release of government files on the investigation of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and criticizing Trumps military intervention in Venezuela. In a Sunday interview on CNN, Massie criticized Trumps posting of a video on social media that depicts former President Barack Obama, the first Black president, and First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. He should absolutely apologize. Hes gone too far, Massie said. I mean, hes attacked my wife recently online, and I do think there are limits, Massie told host CNN journalist Manu Raju. Republican U.S. Senate candidates, from left, businessman Nate Morris, former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron and U.S. Rep. Andy Barr. The three spoke at the annual Fancy Farm Picnic on Saturday, Aug 2, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Austin Anthony) Barr slams DEI in new television ad Also over the weekend, Barr began airing a new ad that shows the congressman disavowing DEI programs, which he said means Dumb, Evil, Indoctrination. The acronym is shorthand for diversity, equity and inclusion. Advertisement Advertisement Its not a sin to be white, its not against the law to be male, and it shouldnt be disqualifying to be a Christian, Barr said in the ad. Im Andy Barr and I approve this message to give woke liberals something else to cry about. According to a Monday press release from Barrs campaign, the commercial is part of a $1 million ad buy on broadcast, cable and digital platforms. The press release highlighted the unhinged tweets from woke liberals across KY and the country that were in response to the ad. Democratic U.S. Senate candidates Charles Booker and Amy McGrath were among those criticizing the ad. Bookers and Barrs campaigns had a back and forth about the commercial on X. Its not a sin to be white. It should be a sin to be this desperate though, Booker said in one of his posts about the ad. Advertisement Advertisement McGrath wrote on X that Kentuckians dont wake up worried about culture-war acronyms, but are concerned about bills, jobs and health care. Kentuckys primary election is May 19. This story was updated with additional comments Monday afternoon. Three bullet holes remain on the glass and the paneling above Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026 where Alex Pretti, 37, was shot and killed by Border Patrol agents days before at Nicollet Avenue and 26th Street. The author argues that there's ample evidence that the ICE crackdown is not an aberration but part of a broader governing style defined by arbitrariness, the very condition republican government is meant to guard against.(Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer) In addition to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol actions in Minnesota, President Donald Trump has now called for a nationalization of elections. Minnesota is once again in the thick of things, and the aim is, in Trumps words, to take over voting in several states. For a Republican party that once prided itself on small government, such federal incursions might initially seem counterintuitive. So how does the administration justify its big government incursions? Central to the administrations rhetoric has been the Constitutions language of invasion. That language appears in Article IV, Section 4, which requires the federal government to protect states against invasion. Advertisement Advertisement But when looked at more closely, the same clause could provide Minnesota officials with a political vocabulary to reframe questions of federal versus state authority. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has already inverted the language of invasion, suggesting the federal government is doing the invading. As he argued after the Alex Pretti shooting, a great American city is being invaded by its own federal government. Yet the guarantee clause also contains another, and frequently overlooked, phrase: that the United States must guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government. If a Republican Form of Government means anything, it means protecting citizens and states from arbitrary centralized power, not authorizing more of it, as weve seen in Minnesota, Maine and elsewhere. Gov. Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison and elected representatives more generally should clearly articulate what is at stake. This is not only a partisan dispute about immigration, due process, or individual rights, although it is all of that. It is also a constitutional conflict over whether states retain the form of self-governing republics or trade their independence the heart of republican liberty for dependence and subordination. The guarantee clause has long been treated as dormant, but historically it was understood as a safeguard against vindictive reprisal by any power, foreign or domestic. As James Madison wrote in Federalist Paper No. 43, the purpose of the clause is to secure each State, not only against foreign hostility, but against ambitious or vindictive enterprises. The enforcement surges in Minnesota and Maine bear all the hallmarks of vindictive reprisals, in this case against Govs. Walz and Janet Mills. Advertisement Advertisement The clause commits the federal government not only to defending states from external attack but to preserving republican self-government within them, which, according to the long tradition of republicanism, means freedom from arbitrary power; rule through law rather than intimidation; and governance that tracks the interests of its people citizens and non-citizens alike. When federal authority relies on fear and force, the threat is not merely to individual rights but to republican self-government itself. There is now ample evidence that the ICE crackdown is not an aberration but part of a broader governing style defined by arbitrariness, the very condition republican government is meant to guard against. It replaces government by law with government by discretion. The Founders treated such arbitrariness as a central danger to self-rule, and state leaders should invoke that constitutional tradition directly. State governors, attorneys general, and the public are not powerless in the face of this shift, but their most important tool is not necessarily a lawsuit. It is constitutional narration. By invoking the guarantee clause explicitly, state leaders can reframe these confrontations as conflicts over republican self-government. Naming federal operations as incompatible with a republican form of government changes the terrain of debate to broad and high-stakes questions of political authority and constitutional legitimacy. Such an approach is in line with a long tradition of American popular constitutionalism, in which political officials and the public assert constitutional limits when formal legal remedies lag behind events. It gives governors and anyone who considers themselves a small-r republican a vocabulary for demanding transparency and limits on coercion, and for rallying legislatures, mayors and the public around a shared constitutional principle. A republican form of government ties law and liberty together. Arbitrary rule, in contrast, is the very condition that the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence sought to guarantee against. State leaders have good reason to begin invoking that guarantee. Patients across the United States, including in Wisconsin, can now purchase discounted medications from a government website. The website, dubbed TrumpRx, is part of the Trump administration's effort to bolster domestic drug manufacturing and lower medication costs. President Donald Trump signed an executive order May 12 outlining a "most-favored-nation" policy for drug pricing. The initial launch features medications from the five manufacturers who made "most-favored-nation" pricing deals with the administration, according to a Feb. 5 White House press release. Those manufacturers are AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, EMD Serono, Novo Nordisk and Pfizer. Advertisement Advertisement "This is a very big deal," Trump said Feb. 5 during a White House event. "People are going to save a lot of money and be healthy." However, it's worth noting health care costs from drug prices to insurance are skyrocketing across the country. A Nov. 18 survey found nearly half of U.S. adults worry they won't be able to afford necessary health care in the coming year, and 90% of respondents said they believe they spend too much for the quality of care they receive, USA TODAY reported. Health insurance costs spiked for 22 million Americans following the December expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies. About 10 million Americans are expected to lose health insurance under Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" over the next decade, USA TODAY reported, citing the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Advertisement Advertisement More: Fewer Wisconsinites sign up for Obamacare coverage as costs spike Here's what to know about TrumpRx in Wisconsin: What is TrumpRx? TrumpRx is a direct-to-consumer website for Americans to buy medications at discounted prices. The website was first announced Sept. 30 by Trump and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla for patients to buy discounted drugs from pharmaceutical companies, USA TODAY reported. TrumpRx has since grown to include at least nine companies as of Dec. 19, according to a White House press release. Aside from Pfizer, some of the companies participating in TrumpRx include Amgen, GSK, Gilead Sciences, Merck and Novartis. Advertisement Advertisement More: New Trump accounts offer savings options for kids Can Wisconsin residents purchase medications from TrumpRx? Yes, the discounted drug website officially launched Feb. 5. Is TrumpRx free? Yes, TrumpRx is free to use. How does TrumpRx work? Consumers can use the TrumpRx website to search for medications they need. The site then redirects them to a manufacturer's site for purchase. How does my doctor send prescriptions to TrumpRx? Prescriptions do not need to be sent to TrumpRx, according to the website. Any prescriptions should be sent to the pharmacy of your choice where the discounted price is offered. Can I use insurance to buy prescriptions on TrumpRx? Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. The walkout was one of numerous demonstrations against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at various Milwaukee area high schools and statewide this month. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. The walkout was one of numerous demonstrations against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at various Milwaukee area high schools and statewide this month. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. The walkout was one of numerous demonstrations against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at various Milwaukee area high schools and statewide this month. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. The walkout was one of numerous demonstrations against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at various Milwaukee area high schools and statewide this month. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. Nicolet High School students in Glendale hold anti-ICE walkout 1 of 13 Nicolet High School students hold an anti-ICE walkout at Nicolet High School on North Jean Nicolet Road in Glendale, on Feb. 6, 2026. Students organized the walkout during a free period where no class time was missed. The walkout was one of numerous demonstrations against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at various Milwaukee area high schools and statewide this month. No. Even if you have health insurance, TrumpRx prices are cash-pay only "at this time," according to the website. That means if you are insured you must choose between using your insurance or paying the price offered by TrumpRx. Advertisement Advertisement More: Drugmakers hike medicine prices in 2026. How much more will you spend? What medications are on TrumpRx? There are 43 medications listed on TrumpRx as of Feb. 9, though the website claims "many more are coming soon." Among available medications are popular weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy both injectable and pill forms and Zepbound. There are also fertility medications on the site, including Gonal-F and Cetrotide. You can find a full list of available medications online at https://trumprx.gov/browse. More: How many federal workers has Wisconsin lost under the Trump administration? Ken Alltucker, Kinsey Crowley and Lori Comstock contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Here's what to know about TrumpRx in Wisconsin For years Stephen Miller has been a conservative firebrand in Donald Trump's political orbit. Now, he has become a lightning rod. His relentless, combative style at the policymaking helm of the White House has set the president's hardline immigration agenda in motion, and he has developed a growing influence in expanding US power across the Western Hemisphere. The high-velocity start to 2026 by the Trump administration, at home and abroad, has only cemented his position as one of its most powerful figures. Advertisement Advertisement But for many on the left, he is a villain. In Washington DC, posters of Miller's face have been plastered in public spaces with the caption "Fascism ain't pretty". Democrats have called for his resignation. Even some members of his own party have publicly questioned his political judgement and effectiveness. And over the last few weeks, Miller has found himself in unfamiliar territory - a behind-the-scenes operator suddenly in the national spotlight, whose words and actions are being scrutinised. He has had to back away - at least temporarily - from the kind of fight he has frequently relished. [Getty Images] 'Always strong, never back down' Shortly after two federal immigration officers shot and killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis last month, Miller posted several messages on the social media site X accusing the Minneapolis nurse of being a "domestic terrorist" and an "assassin". Advertisement Advertisement It was typical red-meat invective for a man who used to serve as a warm-up act for Trump at his 2016 campaign rallies. He accused Democrats of "fanning the flames of insurrection". His assertions were also objectively false. Video evidence subsequently revealed that Pretti, although carrying a licensed handgun, did not threaten the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officials prior to being pepper-sprayed, tackled and shot 10 times. Protesters in Washington depict an image of Stephen Miller [Getty Images] Days later, Miller provided a statement to the media contending that the administration's initial assessment of the shooting was "based on reports" from "on the ground" immigration officers - and that those agents "may not have been following" proper protocol. It was a rare walk-back from the combative aide - but one that has not satisfied his Democratic critics, who accuse him of encouraging Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to violently respond to protests. Advertisement Advertisement "It wasn't enough for Stephen Miller that these American citizens were murdered by ICE and CBP, he had to slander them with lies after their deaths," Congressman Don Beyer of Virginia wrote in a post on social media website Bluesky. "Miller is a deranged, bloodthirsty bigot, and his policies put lives at risk every day he remains in power." In May, it was Miller who demanded that immigration enforcement officials do more to detain and deport undocumented migrants in American cities. He told Fox News the administration had set a target of 3,000 arrests a day - a figure that dwarfed previous numbers. Advertisement Advertisement According to the Washington Examiner, Miller at one meeting "eviscerated" federal immigration officials for not doing enough to detain undocumented migrants across the US. Since then, the administration has ramped up enforcement in a growing list of major American cities, including Washington DC, Charlotte, Chicago and, most recently, Minneapolis. "Everything I've done, I've done at the direction of the president and Stephen," Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told Axios recently, in part as a defence of criticism that she was the driving force behind the administration's forceful immigration enforcement actions. Support for ICE tactics falls Miller has denied being animated by racism or bigotry. He defends Trump's immigration policy as a reflection of what voters elected Trump to accomplish. Yet, in what is being seen as a break with Miller's aggressive approach, Trump said this week his crackdown needed a "softer touch" following the deaths of Pretti and Renee Good, another US citizen killed by immigration officers in Minneapolis. Advertisement Advertisement Approval of his immigration policy overall has fallen to 39%, its lowest level since he returned to the White House, according to a poll by Reuters-Ipsos. And a clear majority, 58%, say the enforcement tactics by ICE agents have gone "too far". This trend puts Miller squarely in the crosshairs of criticism as Republicans prepare for November's midterm congressional elections. Miller is the architect of this mass deportation policy, said Bryan Lanza, a conservative strategist who worked on Trump's 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns. "We'll know in November whether he's to blame for it. The voters, at the end of the day, can be very unforgiving." Miller speaks at a Trump rally in 2016 [Getty Images] Miller, however, has proven over the years to be a survivor. An outspoken conservative from his high school days in liberal California, he rose from Senate staffer to campaign aide to the White House, where he navigated the various personal intrigues and backbiting of the first Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, he told the Washington Post he felt a "jolt of electricity to my soul" when Trump announced his presidential bid. Miller stuck by the president in his darkest days, following the 2020 election defeat, the attack by his supporters on the US Capitol and his political exile from Washington. And he followed Trump back into power last year. "Stephen Miller is critical to Trump's psyche," said Lanza. "Always go strong; never back down. He can always count on Stephen to support that position on any issue." Speaking for the president Miller's official title in the White House is deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser. Advertisement Advertisement "Stephen Miller has faithfully served President Trump for years because he's intelligent, hardworking, and loyal," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told the BBC. "Stephen brings together all corners of the government to ensure every single policy, both foreign and domestic, is implemented at record speed. The results over the course of the past year speak for themselves." At one point last year, Miller was floated as a potential White House national security adviser, replacing the ousted Michael Waltz - rumours that the president summarily dismissed. "Stephen is much higher on the totem pole than that," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Last March, as the United States was preparing to launch airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen, a series of Signal text messages inadvertently shared with The Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg revealed Miller at the centre of White House planning, speaking for the president's desire to go ahead with the attack. "As I heard it, the president was clear: green light," he wrote to the group of senior aides, including Vice-President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. [Getty Images] Last autumn, Miller was reportedly put in charge of overseeing military operations in the Caribbean to locate and destroy boats suspected of engaging in narcotics trafficking - which expanded into the successful effort to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power in early January. Advertisement Advertisement When Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort announced the successful operation that captured Maduro, Miller was among the few top officials standing behind the president. Miller's role in foreign policy, notes Lanza, is unusual but in keeping with an unorthodox White House. "Stephen's smart enough to know that Donald Trump is not a traditional president, and he will gravitate to who's around him for advice and for input," Lanza said. "Stephen's done a good job of being around him and providing that input. Stephen would not have had the same success under a more traditional president." Early political foray in California Miller developed his taste for controversy and provocation at a relatively early age. He went to high school in Santa Monica, a coastal enclave in greater Los Angeles, where he advocated English-only education and other conservative issues. He started in 1999, a year after a federal court struck down California's ban on social services for undocumented migrants. It was also a time when immigration encounters on the US-Mexico border spiked to levels not matched until the post-Covid surge during Joe Biden's presidency. In one videotaped speech during a high school student government campaign, he complains of being told to pick up his trash, saying that should be the work of paid janitors. "I'm the only candidate up here who stands out," he said, showcasing an early ability to grab attention. "I would say and I would do things that no one else in their right mind would say or do." Miller studied political science at Duke University, where he wrote a right-wing column in the student newspaper and became executive director of the Duke Conservative Union. He gained some national attention in defending three white members of the Duke lacrosse team who had been accused of rape - wrongly, it was later revealed - by a black woman. It was Miller's proudest moment in university, he would later tell The Atlantic magazine, and it would help launch Miller's career in politics. Shortly after graduation, he took a job as press secretary for Michele Bachmann, an outspoken conservative congresswoman from rural Minnesota. The 'iron laws' of strength and force Over the course of Trump's first year back at the White House, Miller has been in the middle of some of the administration's greatest political undertakings. And with that influence comes a higher profile and greater risk. In the aftermath of the Venezuela raid, Miller appeared on CNN to defend what has become an expansive Trump administration worldview that positions America as the dominant power over the entirety of the Western hemisphere - even when it means clashing with traditional allies. It was Miller's wife, influential podcaster and former Trump staffer Katie Miller, whose X post of an America-flag-draped Greenland put the president's desire to acquire the Danish territory back in the news just hours after the Venezuela attack. And it was Stephen Miller who stood in front of the camera, offering a cold-eyed view of American power and how it related to the president's desire for the Danish territory. Wife Katie Miller hosts a podcast aimed at a Republican female audience [Getty Images] "By what right does Denmark assert control over Greenland?" Miller asked. "Nobody is going to fight the United States militarily over the future of Greenland." He went on to assert that there are "iron laws of the world". "We live in a world, in the real world... that is governed by strength, that is governed by force, that is governed by power," he said. It was heady stuff coming on the heels of America's surgically precise use of military force in Venezuela. And, for a president who a few days later would tell the New York Times that the only limit on his global powers are "my own morality" and "my own mind", it may have been warmly received. But it rankled some in Trump's own party. "Either Stephen Miller needs to get into a lane where he knows what he's talking about or get out of this job," Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, a frequent Trump critic of late, told CNN. A battle for civilisation Miller's comments may have prompted some pushback from veteran Republican foreign policy hands like Tillis, but his international outlook is in step with Trump's "America First" movement. "What defines an America First policy is something that is in the direct interest of the American citizenry," said Joshua Trevino, a senior fellow for the Western Hemisphere Initiative at the America First Policy Institute. "We face a world situation that has changed and the institutions and practices and the reflexes that were honed and very successful in the past no longer are," he said. "And the Trump administration is trying to correct for that." For Miller, and for Trump, that has meant using raw US military, political and economic power to advance domestic priorities on topics including immigration, crime, narcotics trafficking and trade. Miller is not afraid to make provocative comments, but it does not always sit well with other Republicans [Getty Images] They cite Latin America as a source of much of the fentanyl and other dangerous drugs that have led to deaths in the US, and allege that "narco-terorrists" have contributed to violent crime in US cities. They also accuse Canada of taking advantage of trade imbalances with the US in order to bolster its own economy. Their global outlook also involves positioning America on the world stage as a defender of certain cultural and political values - protectors of "Western Civilization", as Miller has described it. "Our lineage and our legacy hails back to Athens, to Rome, to Philadelphia, to Monticello," Miller said at a memorial service for the slain right-wing activist Charlie Kirk last September. "Our ancestors built the cities. They produced the art and architecture. They built the industry. We stand for what is good, what is virtuous and what is noble." That's a sentiment Trump himself has expressed during his time in the White House, having "the courage to preserve our civilisation in the face of those who would subvert and destroy it," the president said in a 2017 speech in Poland. By framing the stakes in terms of an existential crisis, Trump and Miller are able to advocate for solutions that otherwise would appear extreme or unneeded. When the clock strikes 12 Experts in drug trafficking may point out that attacking Venezuelan boats does little to stem the flow of fentanyl, which largely comes across the US border from Mexico. They might rebut allegations that Latin American migrants are more prone to criminality or mental illness. They could cite figures that show US-Canada trade is mutually beneficial. But if cultural preservation is the objective, then any steps to insulate America from foreign influence in immigration or trade could be justified in their view. It also, however, has opened Miller - and Trump - up to accusations of racism and ethno-nationalism. "Stephen Miller is a central figure in shaping the Trump administration's agenda," the liberal group Common Cause wrote in a 2025 blog post. "From enabling state violence against immigrant families to promoting white nationalist rhetoric in government, his career is a warning of what happens when bigotry gains institutional power." For all the controversy Miller has generated, however, his bond with Trump is why his position in the president's inner circle still appears secure. "To my colleagues who believe you can convince Donald Trump that Stephen Miller is a liability for him, good luck with that," said South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham last week. "When the clock strikes 12 on the Trump era, there will be a few people walking out the door with Donald Trump. Stephen Miller will be in that group. More by Anthony Zurcher An examination of the sequence of events and official statements indicates that Turkey is working to advance a framework in which Hamas would be recognized in any future Palestinian arrangement. As Israel continues to firmly oppose Turkish involvement in the administration and reconstruction of Gaza, and amid US President Donald Trumps declaration that he intends to soon announce a deadline for Hamas to disarm, a coordinated diplomatic initiative has been taking shape behind the scenes in recent weeks. The emerging move points to a substantial deepening of Turkish involvement in the Palestinian arena and is advancing in clear opposition to Israels stated position, rejects any political legitimacy for Hamas, and any role for the organization in a future arrangement. Advertisement Advertisement The first phase of this initiative was revealed through official publications from Ankara. On January 25 and 26, meetings took place between Turkeys foreign minister and deputy foreign minister and senior members of Hamass leadership, including the head of the organizations Shura Council and members of its political bureau. These meetings, reported by the Turkish Foreign Ministry itself, are not regarded as routine diplomatic engagements, but rather as a deliberate expression of Ankaras policy toward Hamas, even after the events of October 7 and amid the ongoing fighting in Gaza. Shortly afterward, on February 6, the Turkish consulate in Jerusalem began publicizing a series of intensive meetings with senior officials of the Palestinian Authority. These included meetings with the PAs vice president, senior Fatah figures, and officials directly involved in discussions concerning the day after in Gaza. A HAMAS terrorist is seen alongside guns in Gaza. Nobody but the Israeli military can prevent Hamas from rearming or reimposing its reign of terror on Palestinians in Gaza, the writer says. (credit: Hatem Khaled/Reuters) According to statements issued by the consulate and the Turkish Foreign Ministry, the talks addressed intra-Palestinian reconciliation, the next stage of the political process, and comprehensive political arrangements. Ankara works to integrate Hamas into Gaza plans When viewed together, however, the combination of overt meetings with Hamass leadership and the sustained series of contacts with the Palestinian Authority reveals a broader and more coherent picture. Advertisement Advertisement An examination of the sequence of events and official statements indicates that Turkey is working to advance a framework in which Hamas would be recognized and integrated into any future Palestinian arrangement, both on the political level and within governing mechanisms, including in Gaza. Within this context, the Turkish consul general in Jerusalem appears to be operating as part of a coordinated diplomatic effort aimed at applying sustained pressure on the Palestinian Authoritys leadership to accept Hamas as a legitimate partner in any unified Palestinian structure. This pressure is conveyed through repeated references to national unity, intra-Palestinian reconciliation, and reconstruction of Gaza, terminology that obscures the fact that Hamas remains an active terrorist organization that has not abandoned its violent path. This Turkish initiative does not exist in a vacuum. Ankara is seeking to position itself as a central actor in the Palestinian arena, in line with a neo-Ottoman worldview that identifies Jerusalem as a key strategic hub of influence. Advertisement Advertisement In practice, the Turkish consulate in the city is functioning not only as a consular mission but as an active political arm, creating a diplomatic channel that bypasses Israel, from within Jerusalem itself. From Israels perspective, this development is particularly alarming. Any incorporation of Hamas into a future framework for Gaza or the Palestinian Authority contradicts Israels official position, which denies legitimacy to a terrorist organization responsible for massacres, kidnappings, and sustained rocket fire at Israeli civilians. The fact that Turkey is advancing such a policy from within Jerusalem highlights both the depth of its involvement and the growing gap between Ankaras approach and Israels security interests. Ran Yishai, head of the research department at the Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy, warns that this is a move of diplomatic subversion and a grave risk to Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Turkey is acting openly vis-a-vis Hamass leadership and exploiting its presence in Jerusalem to pressure for the integration of a murderous terrorist organization into any future arrangement. This is not diplomacy, but hostile interference aimed at preserving Hamas and the threat to Israel. According to him, the obvious Israeli conclusion is clear, there is no place for a Turkish consulate in Jerusalem in its current format. Alongside the diplomatic track, a troubling security dimension emerged this week. Official publications by the Israel Police, which included video documentation of weapons seized from a terror cell in Jerusalem, showed firearms bearing manufacturer markings and identifying serial numbers. An open-source review of the data visible in the images indicates that the weapons originated in Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement This finding, based on the polices own publications, adds a disturbing layer to Ankaras diplomatic activity and sharpens the broader picture. While political pressure is being applied to integrate Hamas into Palestinian governing mechanisms, weapons manufactured in Turkey are ultimately appearing in terror arenas in Jerusalem. Firearms of the type and origin documented in the police materials are not legally marketed in Israel and do not reach the local civilian market. Based on market data and professional assessment, it can be reasonably concluded that these weapons were smuggled into Israel rather than acquired through legal channels. Yishai, who previously served as director general of the Ministry of Jerusalem Affairs and as an ambassador in the Foreign Ministry, concludes: The accumulation of data, both diplomatic and security-related, requires a renewed examination of the activity of the Turkish consulate in Jerusalem and its actual role, not only as a diplomatic mission, but as an active political player shaping reality on the ground, to Israels detriment. Two drivers were sent to area hospitals after a Mansfield crash, with the impact ejecting one driver from their vehicle and tearing down a traffic light pole, police said. The two-vehicle crash happened around noon on Monday at the intersection of Commercial Street, or Route 140, and School Street, police said in a statement. At about 12 p.m., Southeastern Massachusetts Regional 911 District received several 911 calls reporting a crash with ejection at Commercial and School streets. Advertisement Advertisement When police and fire crews arrived at the scene, they found a damaged sedan and a pickup truck. Both vehicles had heavy front-end damage. Several witnesses and motorists were rendering aid when first responders arrived, police said. The driver of the pickup truck, who was ejected from their vehicle, was taken by ambulance to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries that appeared to be non-life-threatening, police said. The driver of the sedan was taken by ambulance to Boston Medical Center South in Brockton with serious injuries that appeared to be non-life-threatening, police said. Neither driver was identified on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary investigation found the sedan, which was traveling at a high rate of speed, drove into the breakdown lane on Route 140 to get around traffic, proceeded through a red light, and struck the pickup truck as it headed westbound on School Street through the intersection, police said. The impact caused the truck to roll onto its side and eject the driver. A traffic signal pole was struck, knocking out all signals. Police said the intersection will remain closed while repairs are made. Police said charges are expected to be filed against the sedan driver. The crash remains under investigation. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW By David Shepardson WASHINGTON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The United Auto Workers union said on Monday a Ford worker who heckled U.S. President Donald Trump during a visit last month to a Michigan auto plant was not disciplined and kept his job. The incident prompted Trump to raise his middle finger and shout profanity toward the worker who criticized Trump's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein controversy, according to the UAW and video posted online. Advertisement Advertisement Trump also told worker Thomas TJ Sabula he would be fired, said UAW vice president Laura Dickerson, speaking at a political conference in Washington. "This ain't 'The Apprentice'," she said, referring to the reality show Trump hosted before becoming president, in which contestants were dismissed at the end of each episode if they performed badly in tasks. She said the union supported Sabula's free speech rights and told attendees he still has his job and "has no discipline on his record." Ford did not immediately comment. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Trump was touring the Ford F-150 assembly plant in Dearborn when a worker on the plant floor shouted what sounded like pedophile protector as the president stood on an elevated walkway, a video showed. Trump turned toward the individual and appeared to respond with an expletive before making a hand gesture with his middle finger as he walked off. "There was a worker at that plant that day who famously told Mr Trump exactly what he thought of him," Dickerson said. "Unfortunately in that moment we saw what the current president really thinks about working people and the way he responded - he gave us the middle finger." Online fundraising campaigns for Sabula topped more than $800,000 before they were suspended. Ford's executive chairman Bill Ford, speaking with the media after the factory tour, called the incident unfortunate and said he was embarrassed by it. (Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by Franklin Paul and Nia Williams) NAIROBI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Uganda's Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi condemned a military raid on opposition leader Bobi Wine's home last month, telling Reuters that the popstar-turned-politician had not committed any crime and was free to return there. Wine has been in hiding for weeks after fleeing his home in the capital, Kampala, hours before he was announced the runner-up to President Yoweri Museveni in the January 15 presidential election. On January 24, Wine said his wife had been taken to hospital after soldiers invaded their residence, alleging that they partially undressed and choked her. Advertisement Advertisement Uganda's military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also Museveni's son, denied soldiers assaulted Wine's wife, but later said on X that they had "captured and then released" her. Baryomunsi, who is also a spokesperson for the government, said the authorities would investigate the incident. "We do not condone any acts of indiscipline on the side of the army and security forces," he said in an interview. "So invading his (Wine's) home, causing damage, assaulting his wife, or anybody, is wrong." He declined to say if security personnel would face any penalties if they were found to have violated the law. Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Wine's National Unity Platform party did not respond to calls or messages requesting comment. Kainerugaba has stated in social media posts that the military is looking for Wine, who has rejected the election results, alleging fraud. The army chief has not said why they are looking for Wine or what crime he may be charged with. Rights groups and the opposition have long accused the government of Museveni, who has been in power for four decades, of using the military to suppress dissent, accusations the government denies. Baryomunsi also said that Uganda had no plans to withdraw its military contingent from an African Union mission to fight jihadists in Somalia, contradicting recent comments from Kainerugaba, who last week threatened in a post on X to pull troops out of Somalia over financing issues. Advertisement Advertisement Kainerugaba has a history of controversial social media posts that he often later deletes. He once threatened to behead Wine and also boasted the military had killed 30 opposition supporters. Baryomunsi said Kainerugaba's posts should be taken as "casual comments that do not reflect state policy and state decisions." (Reporting by Nairobi Newsroom; Editing by Ammu Kannampilly and Ros Russell) By Elizabeth Piper, Andrew MacAskill and Alistair Smout LONDON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer refused on Monday to heed calls to quit, even by the leader of his party in Scotland, pledging to fight on after his appointment of Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador plunged his government into crisis. Under pressure over the appointment of a man whose close ties to the late U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have come into full focus, Starmer has attempted to change the narrative. Advertisement Advertisement But a demand from Anas Sarwar, leader of the Scottish Labour Party, for him to quit and the departure of a second senior aide in as many days did little to stop the questions over his judgment and ability to govern. The resignation of communications chief Tim Allan followed the exit of Starmer's closest aide, Morgan McSweeney, who said he took responsibility for advising on the appointment of Mandelson to Britain's top diplomatic role in the United States. Despite Sarwar's intervention, Starmer later received messages of support from his top ministers and some potential leadership rivals, and a positive reception at a meeting of Labour Party lawmakers suggested there would be no imminent move to oust him. "After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done," Starmer told the meeting, saying his focus was preventing the populist Reform Party, headed by veteran Brexit supporter Nigel Farage, from taking power. Advertisement Advertisement "That is my fight, that is all of our fight, and we're in this together." Earlier Sarwar, speaking in Scotland where Labour has seen its support slump since the 2024 election, said it was with a heavy heart that he had to defend Scotland and call for a change of leader in the UK capital London. "The distraction needs to end and the leadership in Downing Street has to change," he told a press conference. In response, a Downing Street spokesperson said Starmer had "a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do". STARMER STRUGGLES TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE Advertisement Advertisement With his statement, Sarwar became the most senior Labour figure to call for Starmer's resignation, and did little to quell a febrile mood in parliament in London's Westminster. Government borrowing costs rose, reflecting investors' concerns that a more left-wing Labour leader, who was willing to borrow and spend more, could take over. The climb in yields, along with the value of the pound against the euro, later eased after the potential successors came out in Starmer's support. With Starmer losing his fourth director of communications, his record in government is under scrutiny, including the gaffes and policy U-turns that have tainted his almost two years in power. "It's painful," said one Labour lawmaker on condition of anonymity. "It's like watching a fatal car crash in slow motion." Advertisement Advertisement But Starmer received a show of support from his deputy, David Lammy, finance minister Rachel Reeves and foreign minister Yvette Cooper, among others. Angela Rayner, his former deputy who is seen as a leading leadership candidate, offered him her "full support". "I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team. The Prime Minister has my full support in leading us to that end," she said on X. He was greeted with a round of applause from the Labour members of parliament, and one lawmaker who was at the meeting told Reuters: "he is safe for now." With McSweeney's departure on Sunday, Starmer had hoped to reset the narrative and attempt to return to an agenda he has so far failed to keep any focus on - tackling the cost-of-living crisis and boosting the British economy. Advertisement Advertisement The leader of the opposition Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, accused Starmer of being unable to run his government. "He's like a plastic bag blowing in the wind. We need him to get a grip and if he can't do it then someone else in the Labour Party needs to do that, or they should have an election," she told Sky News. PRIME MINISTER TO MEET LAWMAKERS The new scandal over Mandelson, who was sacked as ambassador to the United States in September, came after files released by the U.S. Justice Department last month included emails suggesting Mandelson had leaked discussions on possible UK asset sales and tax changes to Epstein during the financial crash. Advertisement Advertisement Mandelson has not commented publicly on allegations he leaked documents, and did not respond to messages seeking comment. He is now under police investigation for alleged misconduct in office. Starmer has defended his own actions, accusing Mandelson of creating a "litany of deceit" about his Epstein ties and promising to release documents on how he was appointed. (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper, Alistair Smout, Andrew MacAskill, Sam Tabahriti and Catarina Demony; Additional reporting by William Schomberg; editing by William James, Ros Russell and Diane Craft) Ukraine will open 10 weapon export centres in Europe in a major wartime policy shift, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday. Zelenskyy said the centres will operate in several European countries, with Germany set to be among the first, as production of Ukrainian drones is scheduled to begin there within the next few days. In mid-February, we will see the production of our drones in Germany. I will receive the first drone. This is a fully operational production line, Zelenskyy stated. Advertisement Advertisement He also added that similar production lines are already running in the UK. These are all Ukrainian technologies, he emphasised. Zelenskyy said there are currently 450 drone producers in Ukraine. Out of 40-50 are top-tier, according to the Ukrainian president. Everyone wants to invest. This year, 2026, will be a year of investment in our technologies," he said. "First and foremost, drones. This is a large industry, a new industry. According to the finances coming into Ukraine during the war, it is the largest industry in Ukraine. An engineer collects FPV drones of "General Cherry" company at the workshop in Ukraine, on Dec. 4, 2025. - AP Photo Restrictions on Ukraines arms exports In September 2025 Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would begin exporting domestically produced weapons, lifting a restriction introduced when Kyiv declared martial law. Advertisement Advertisement Exports of Ukraine's domestic weapons had been heavily restricted since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion, with everything rolling off the production line diverted to the war effort. Ukraines defence industry and its drone sector in particular have exploded since the beginning of Russias all-out war. Approximately 800 arms producers are currently operating in Ukraine, and many of them ramped up their production to a significant surplus. According to the most recent reports, Ukraine is now producing over 4 million drones annually and could double that number with sufficient funding. Advertisement Advertisement The arms producers had been asking Zelenskyy for months to lift restrictions on selling their domestically produced military-grade equipment, particularly drones, to generate more revenue. For over half a year Kyiv had been working on what it has defined as the "controlled export" of weapons. Under the proposed system, Ukraine will export surplus military equipment and use the proceeds to fund urgently needed weapons. Ukraine's Security Service officers stand by Sea Baby drones, during a demonstration at an undisclosed location in Ukraine Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. - AP Photo Time to demonstrate Ukraines capabilities In May 2025, Ukrainian defence manufacturers issued a public letter to Zelenskyy, calling on him to lift export restrictions on domestically produced military-grade equipment, particularly drones, to help the sector grow and better integrate into Europe's security architecture. Advertisement Advertisement "It is time to demonstrate that Ukraine is capable of being not only a party that receives international support, but also a full-fledged partner that exports security through cooperation, technology, and its own experience," the letter read. "As Europe grapples with transatlantic uncertainty and armed conflicts escalate worldwide, our strategic partners are actively seeking to strengthen their defence capabilities through innovative and affordable technological solutions," the manufacturers explained. "And here, Ukraine holds a unique advantage. Our defence industry evolving under constant battlefield conditions is already producing the technologies the world is looking for." Announcing 10 weapon export centres in Europe Monday, Zelenskyy noted that this project is part of a broader effort to internationalise Ukraine's arms production. "Today, Europes security is built on technology and drones. There are several different projects. All of this will be based largely on Ukrainian technologies and Ukrainian specialists." Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, has called for a ban on entry to the EU for Russian citizens who have fought against Ukraine. Source: Sybiha on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: Sybiha called for a full EU-wide entry ban for Russian citizens who took part in Russia's aggression against Ukraine. "First, it's about the long-term national security of European states and the protection of their citizens from Russian thugs. Second, this will set the right price for the wrong choices: each Russian who signs a contract to invade Ukraine must know that he also signs himself a lifelong entry ban to Europe," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Sybiha cited Estonia as an example, noting that it has adopted such decisions at the national level. "Now it is time to expand this to the entire European Union, and I urge my EU counterparts to take this step seriously. This is about strengthening the security of Europe," the foreign minister added. Background: In January, Estonia submitted to EU member states a proposal to ban entry to the Schengen Area for participants in combat operations against Ukraine in the ranks of the Russian army. After a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said the idea has support from many countries and will continue to be discussed. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian soldiers advised an elite British unit on how to train troops for drone warfare. They said about 60 hours of flying is needed to reach competence. They advised that pilots should start on a simulator. The US Army also uses one on Ukrainian advice. Ukrainian troops taught the British Army what it takes to get soldiers up to speed on drone flying. Sixty hours is typically the minimum requirement for pilot competence, a senior British officer said. Lt. Col. Ben Irwin-Clark, the commanding officer of the 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards, an elite British Army infantry regiment, told Business Insider that the Ukrainians said a decent pilot needs at least 30 hours on a simulator and 30 hours of actual flying in the field. Advertisement Advertisement At about 60 hours, "they are pretty competent at being able to fly different types of drones," he said. After that, improvement comes with repetition and exposure to more systems. "It's an upward curve in terms of how good they can get," he said. It takes practice. The battalion received those lessons while it was helping train Ukrainian troops for their fight against Russia's invasion. The unit was deployed in support of Operation Interflex, the UK-led effort with 13 other countries to train Ukrainian soldiers in Western and NATO-style fighting. The UK-led effort to train Ukrainian soldiers is also bringing Ukrainian battle expertise back to the British Army to give its own troops. JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images As Western forces train Ukrainian troops, Ukrainian soldiers with front-line experience have also been sharing lessons with their international partners, particularly in areas where NATO militaries have limited recent combat exposure, like small drone operations. The US Army has also been learning from Ukraine about the value of simulators in drone training. Its Unmanned Advanced Lethality Course at Fort Rucker, Alabama designed to help the service catch up on drone warfare uses simulated flight training before soldiers progress to live drones, Maj. Wolf Amacker, chief of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Tactics Branch at the Army's Aviation Center of Excellence , told Business Insider. Advertisement Advertisement Western militaries have much deeper institutional expertise across many forms of warfare, but they haven't fought a war quite like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a large-scale, tech- and drone-saturated industrial conflict. They have fought heavy artillery battles and engaged in trench warfare, but it's been decades. Ukrainian troops coming through Western training often have more recent experience. On small drones in particular, Ukraine has tremendous experience, far more than its partners. Drones have been used more in this war than in any other previous conflict, and Western partners are keen to learn from it. Irwin-Clark said Ukraine's fight was what pushed his battalion to go all-in on drones, calling them part of "the future of warfare." Seventy-eight of the battalion's 300 members are now pilots or instructors. The unit has built a "drone hub" where soldiers can make and repair drones and train on them. Irwin-Clark described it as the first of its kind in the British Army, saying, "No other unit in the British Army has one of these yet." Advertisement Advertisement He added that when it came to learning drone warfare, "I was surprised by how quickly people picked it up." The battalion has also made other changes based on Ukrainian advice, including adding anti-drone nets to training and using 3D printing to quickly and cheaply produce drone parts. The 1st Battalion of the UK's Irish Guards has started a 'drone hub' that includes 3D printing of drone parts. Sinead Baker Other Western militaries are seeking similar guidance. Poland and Norway have looked to Ukraine for help training operators, while Ukrainian specialists have traveled to Denmark to participate in counter-drone exercises. Ukrainian drone schools training operators for the war have previously told Business Insider that their instruction draws almost entirely on Ukrainian battlefield experience, not lessons from Western partners, reflecting how far ahead the country is of its allies in practical drone warfare knowledge. Read the original article on Business Insider UK premier Keir Starmer insisted he would not "walk away" on Monday after a prominent ally demanded the prime minister quit for embroiling the British government in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Senior ministers rallied around him over the most serious crisis yet of his stuttering 19-month premiership, as a rising far-right challenges him in the polls. "After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility," Starmer told Labour MPs at a crunch meeting where he was greeted with applause. Advertisement Advertisement The beleaguered prime minister appeared defiant as he insisted he had "won every fight I've ever been in". Earlier on Monday, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called on Starmer to resign for appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador despite knowing he had maintained links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. "The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change," Sarwar told a press conference in Glasgow, becoming the most senior Labour politician to publicly urge Starmer to go. Several cabinet ministers came out in support of the prime minister following several days of ominous silence, including his deputy David Lammy, foreign minister Yvette Cooper and finance minister Rachel Reeves. Advertisement Advertisement Left-wing figurehead Angela Rayner and interior minister Shabana Mahmood, both tipped as possible replacements for Starmer, both said they had "full support" for their leader. - Departures - Earlier Monday, Starmer lost his second top aide in two days when his communications chief Tim Allan quit just months into the role. On Sunday, Starmer's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned for advising Starmer to make the contentious Mandelson appointment. McSweeney's departure deprives the beleaguered UK leader of his closest adviser and the man who helped Starmer drag Labour back to the centre after succeeding leftist leader Jeremy Corbyn in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Starmer has had several communications chiefs in his short tenure, with staff departures, policy reversals and missteps an increasing hallmark of his administration, denting his popularity. Conservative opposition leader Kemi Badenoch told BBC radio that Starmer's position was "untenable", while hard-right Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said the leader's tenure was "drawing to the close". Labour has trailed Farage's anti-immigration party by double-digit margins in polls over the past year. - Far-right challenge - On the streets of London, James Lyon, 30, who works in the creative industries, said: "He's let us down with his judgment in appointing Peter Mandelson." Advertisement Advertisement Anil Passi, 53 owner of an IT business, thought Starner should not resign, however. "He supported somebody on good faith, and that person let him down... It's a bit unfair to push him to the edge for that reason." In his speech to Labour MPs, Starmer described the fight against Reform UK -- which is hoping to make gains in upcoming key local elections -- as the "fight of our lives". Starmer sacked Mandelson in September last year after documents published by the US Congress revealed the extent of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein following the financier's conviction in 2008. Advertisement Advertisement Epstein killed himself in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex-trafficking. Documents released on January 30 by the US government reignited the controversy, appearing to show that Mandelson leaked confidential UK government information to Epstein when he was a British minister, including during the 2008 financial crisis. - Police probe - Police are investigating Mandelson, 72, for misconduct in public office and raided two of his properties on Friday. He has not been arrested. Starmer, a former human rights lawyer and top prosecutor for England and Wales, has apologised to Epstein's victims and accused Mandelson of lying about the extent of his ties to the financier during the vetting for his appointment to Washington. Advertisement Advertisement The government is to release tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents on Mandelson's appointment, which could increase pressure on the prime minister and other senior ministers. Several backbench Labour MPs, mostly from the left of the party who have never warmed to Starmer, have suggested that the prime minister should follow McSweeney out of the exit door. But no clear successor has emerged and party rules make mounting a challenge difficult. The party also faces a crucial by-election on February 28 and local elections in May, including in Scotland where Labour is expected to lose to the pro-independence Scottish National Party. The next general election is not due until 2029. pdh-aks/rlp The U.S. Air Force must buy at least 500 sixth-generation fighters and bombers more than it already plans to be able to prevail in a war against China, the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies said Monday. In its policy paper, Strategic Attack: Maintaining the Air Forces Capacity to Deny Enemy Sanctuaries, experts from the Mitchell Institute argue that the Air Force needs at least 300 next-generation F-47 fighters and at least 200 B-21 Raider stealth bombers to counter China. The Air Force has previously signaled it plans to buy at least 185 F-47s from Boeing and at least 100 Northrop Grumman-made B-21s. In an online discussion about the paper, former F-16 pilot and Mitchell Institute director of research Heather Penney warned that past U.S. wars such as Korea and Vietnam, and Ukraines current war against Russias invasion, have showed that militaries who cant or wont hit enemy bases and other sanctuaries from the air risk falling into grueling wars of attrition, akin to trench warfare. Advertisement Advertisement And without a significantly boosted combat fleet able to project long-range air power in force, Penney said, the United States could find itself in a similar danger against China. China is deliberately building the capabilities and the posture to effectively make the entire western Pacific their sanctuary, Penney said. But we know from history that allowing an adversary that kind of sanctuary allows them to win, and its a recipe for our own defeat. The Air Force has carried out recent strike operations such as Midnight Hammer, which bombed Irans nuclear sites, exceptionally well. But Midnight Hammer employed the services entire fleet of available B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, Penney said, some in the strike portion of the operation and some as decoys. And if Iran shot down any of those B-2s, Penney said, the Air Force couldnt replace them nor could the Air Force carry out a similar mission the next day if a second strike was needed. Advertisement Advertisement And if the U.S. found itself in a conflict with China or other major regional power, Penney said, the Air Force would have to deal with a threat far more dangerous than Iran, with significantly better air defenses. Without a great enough combat aircraft reserve, Penney said, the Air Force might have to stay outside Chinas air defenses and refrain from more daring strikes to avoid losing irreplaceable planes but a conservative strategy like that might not be enough to win, or deter China from a first strike against Taiwan. The inability to hold [Chinese] targets at risk really provides a singular reward to a first mover, to an aggressor, Penney said. So if China doesnt see any risk to their homeland, to their population, to their infrastructure, they can afford to lose some of those assets on the edge, because they know that they can hold us at bay. So it really erodes our ability to keep them from taking that kind of aggressive action. Penney and the Mitchell Institute argued that the Air Force also must take interim steps to maintain its combat airpower until the B-21 and F-47 come online in significant numbers. That means refraining from retiring any legacy B-1 Lancer or B-2 bombers until the Air Force has at least 100 B-21s on hand, the Mitchell Institute report said. And the institute called for Congress and the Pentagon to provide the Air Force enough funding to speed up the acquisition of the B-21. Advertisement Advertisement And the Air Force needs to boost its procurement of the fifth-generation F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, the F-15EX Eagle II and autonomous drone wingmen the service calls collaborative combat aircraft, Penney said. This means buying 74 F-35As and 24 F-15EXs each year to start to turn around decades of cuts to the force, she said. The Air Force must reverse its fighter crisis and procure F-35s and F-15EXs at maximum rates: No more divest to invest, Penney said, referring to an Air Force strategy of retiring older air frames to free up funds to develop new aircraft. The Air Force must recapitalize its fighters with at least a one-for-one rate [replacing each retired jet with a newly procured tail], while also augmenting its force with collaborative combat aircraft. The Mitchell Institute also argues that the Air Force should have a bomber force of at least 300 aircraft. With 76 Cold War-era B-52 Stratofortresses in the Air Forces fleet and slated for massive upgrades, that would mean the Air Force would have to buy at least 224 B-21s to meet Mitchells goal. The Air Force is planning to retire all B-1s and B-2s in the next decade and fly a two-bomber fleet. The US military boarded an oil tanker after tracking it for thousands of miles from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, the Department of Defense said. US officials said the ship - named Aquila II - was operating in defiance of a US "quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean". "It ran, and we followed", the department said on social media, adding that "by land, air, or sea, our Armed Forces will find you and deliver justice". Advertisement Advertisement Forces boarded and inspected the ship, officials said. At least seven oil tankers have been seized by the US since last year, as the Trump administration moves to control the supply of Venezuelan oil, the country's main economic resource. The US military seized Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from his home in Caracas during a raid in December and implemented a blockade of oil shipments. "When the (defence department) says quarantine, we mean it," the department wrote on X. Nothing will stop the US military from enforcement, "even in oceans halfway around the world". A video that accompanied the social media post showed US servicemembers in military fatigue uniforms boarding the ship from a helicopter that hovered above. Advertisement Advertisement The defence department said it "tracked and hunted" the Aquila II from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, thousands of miles away. The US blockade has sharply curtailed Venezuelan oil exports, with only ships associated with Chevron and bound for the US operating as usual. Loadings fell roughly in half in January to about 400,000 barrels per day, Matt Smith, head of US analysis at Kpler, told the BBC last month. WASHINGTON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - U.S. military forces boarded a crude oil tanker in the Indian Ocean after pursuing it from the Caribbean, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Monday, accusing the vessel of breaching Washington's blockade on sanctioned vessels traveling to or from Venezuela. "Overnight, U.S. military forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding on the Aquila II without incident " Hegseth wrote in a post on X. "It ran, and we followed." After capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a military raid last month in Caracas, the U.S. has escalated its blockade on vessels that are under sanctions and going to and from the South American country, a member of the OPEC oil producers group. Advertisement Advertisement Suezmax tanker Aquila II departed from Venezuelan waters in early January as part of a flotilla of vessels. It was carrying about 700,000 barrels of Venezuelan heavy crude bound for China, according to schedules from state company PDVSA. Most tankers in the flotilla have returned to Venezuela or have been seized by the U.S. Hegseth said the Aquila II was operating in defiance of the U.S. "quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean." "The Department of War tracked and hunted this vessel from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. ..You will run out of fuel long before you will outrun us," he wrote. It was unclear where the Aquila II was registered, according to shipping databases. (Reporting by Katharine Jackson and Doina Chiacu. additional reporting by Jonathan Saul and Marianna Parraga; Editing by Michelle Nichols and Doina Chiacu) TRIPOLI, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Five people were killed on Monday when a helicopter crashed at Al-Sarra air base in the city of Kufra in southeast Libya, Libya's Al-Ahrar TV reported. The helicopter was carrying two military personnel and a medical escort, in addition to two foreigners, the TV channel said on Facebook, quoting a source from the city of Kufra. The helicopter had been on a mission to evacuate a soldier injured in a traffic accident in the desert before it crashed at the base, the TV said. Jeffrey Epstein's accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell will be questioned behind closed doors by the US Congress on Monday, though she's expected to invoke her right to not answer questions. Maxwell, currently serving 20 years in prison for trafficking girls to the disgraced financier Epstein, will face questions from prison via video-link, in a deposition by the House of Representatives' Oversight Committee. Though no new US prosecutions are expected after the latest dump of government files on Epstein, numerous political and business leaders have fallen into scandal or resigned as their ties to the convicted sex criminal were revealed. Advertisement Advertisement The Republican-led House Oversight Committee is probing Epstein's connections to powerful figures and how information about his crimes was handled. Maxwell, however, is expected to invoke her right to not incriminate herself, guaranteed in the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution. Epstein was convicted in 2008 of soliciting a minor. His extensive ties to the world's rich and powerful, especially after he was released in 2009, have become politically explosive across the globe. He died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial for trafficking children in what was ruled a suicide. Maxwell's lawyers have pushed for Congress to grant her legal immunity in order to testify in the deposition, but lawmakers refused. Advertisement Advertisement Without that, her legal team said she would invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. "Proceeding under these circumstances would serve no other purpose than pure political theater," her lawyers said in a letter. Though the deposition will occur behind closed doors, Representative Ro Khanna, a Democrat, published a letter of the questions he intended to ask Maxwell even if she refuses to answer. Some touch on Trump's ties to Epstein and Maxwell. Others focus on four "co-conspirators" as well as 25 other men who allegedly "sexually abused minors at Epstein's island." Advertisement Advertisement One of the questions asks: "Why do you believe they were not indicted?" Another question claims that it is "well documented" that Maxwell, Epstein and US President Donald Trump had a "social relationship," citing several photographs of the trio together. It further probes whether she or Epstein ever "arranged, facilitated or provided access to underage girls" to Trump. Beyond the trafficking charges, Maxwell will also be asked if she had any knowledge of Epstein sharing "information" with "foreign governments or intelligence services" with Russia and Israel used as examples. Advertisement Advertisement As Maxwell prepares for the closed-door discussion, scrutiny of the Trump administration's handling of her case has again come under fire. Last year Maxwell was moved to a minimum-security prison in Texas after meeting twice with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as US President Donald Trump's personal lawyer. Trump himself was a longtime Epstein associate, but has not been called to testify by the Oversight Committee, which is led by members of his Republican Party. Trump has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein's activities. Also expected to be deposed by the committee are former president Bill Clinton and his wife, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, both Democrats. The Clintons have called for their depositions to be held publicly to prevent Republicans from politicizing their testimony. sst/ane/jfx The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a federal lawsuit against Hotel Equities Group, LLC, alleging the company violated U.S. employment law by failing to provide reasonable workplace accommodations for pregnancy and religious practice. The complaint, filed in the Northern District of Illinois in early February 2026, underscores legal expectations on employment discrimination compliance in the hotel management sector. Alleged failure to provide pregnancy and religious accommodations According to the EEOC complaint, Hotel Equities Group did not meet legal requirements when two front desk clerks at a Hilton-branded property in Oak Lawn, Illinois, requested accommodations in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement In the first case, a pregnant employee asked to be allowed to sit during her shift for medical reasons supported by a doctors note. After a colleague temporarily provided a suitable chair, management replaced it with a small stool that lacked adequate support and discouraged its use. The employees scheduled hours were diminished, and her employment was terminated shortly thereafter, the lawsuit says. The second employee, an assistant pastor, sought to avoid Saturday overnight shifts that conflicted with his religious observance on Sundays. The EEOC says management initially agreed but then scheduled him for those shifts anyway and reduced his hours after he raised concerns. Legal framework for discrimination and retaliation The lawsuit claims that these actions breach both the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, federal laws designed to protect employees from discrimination and retaliation for legally protected accommodation requests. Advertisement Advertisement The PWFA requires employers to provide reasonable adjustments for pregnancy-related limitations, unless doing so would cause undue hardship. Title VII prohibits discrimination based on religion and obliges employers to accommodate religious practices that do not impose undue hardship on business operations. Both statutes also bar retaliation against employees for requesting accommodation. The EEOC attempted to resolve the matter through administrative conciliation before filing suit. The agency is pursuing injunctive relief and damages for the affected employees. Implications for hotel employment practices This legal action highlights industry risks linked to workplace discrimination and retaliation claims in hotel operations, particularly in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Employers in the hotel and hospitality sector must understand and comply with anti-discrimination laws, especially when handling accommodation requests tied to health and religious practice. Legal experts and HR leaders have noted that failure to reasonably accommodate such requests can lead to enforcement actions by federal regulators. The case follows other recent employment discrimination and accommodation disputes involving hotel companies and reinforces the need for robust policies and training to ensure lawful treatment of employees. "US files pregnancy and religion bias case against hotel operator" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. A new U.S. rule celebrated by some, feared by others could soon allow heavy machinery to scrape mineral-rich rocks from the ocean floor, permanently altering parts of the deep sea that scientists say barely recover once disturbed. What's happening? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently finalized a rule designed to speed up approvals for seabed mining, according to The New York Times. Within days, The Metals Company a seabed mining startup filed a new application seeking to double the size of its proposed mining area. Deep-sea mining involves removing mineral nodules from the ocean floor, which is often miles below the surface. It has not been done commercially yet, but the new rule could change that. Scientists caution that once industrial activity begins, parts of the seabed could be permanently altered before anyone fully understands what lies beneath. Advertisement Advertisement Beth Orcutt, vice president of research at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in Maine, said the rule "removes the ability to ensure effective protection of the marine environment" and added that "the stakes are really high if we get it wrong." Why is this concerning? What happens on the ocean floor doesn't stay there. Scientists warn that disturbing deep-sea ecosystems can ripple outward, affecting fisheries, water quality, and the coastal communities that depend on them. Many deep-sea species grow slowly and reproduce infrequently, meaning damage can last for decades. When sediment clouds spread across the sea floor, they can disrupt food webs that support fish populations further up the chain the same populations many fishing towns rely on to survive. That risk comes as oceans are already under pressure from pollution and overuse. Previous reporting has shown that human activity already strains marine ecosystems, leaving coastal communities with fewer buffers when something goes wrong. Adding industrial mining to that mix raises concerns that short-term gains could come with long-term costs for people whose livelihoods are tied to the sea. What's being done about it? The rule has sparked pushback from marine scientists, environmental groups, and some policymakers, many of whom are calling for stronger safeguards or a pause until more research is completed. Several countries have backed international efforts to delay deep-sea mining until its impacts are better understood. Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, new tools such as environmental DNA sampling allow scientists to detect ocean life from genetic traces in seawater, shedding light on deep-sea biodiversity in regions that could be affected by mining. For individuals, support doesn't have to be abstract. Staying informed, supporting local conservation efforts, and engaging in community advocacy can help advance policies that protect both oceans and the people who depend on them. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. Feb 9 (Reuters) - The United States issued fresh guidance on Monday to commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane for Middle East oil supplies, as tensions simmered between Washington and Tehran over Irans nuclear program. Iran has in the past threatened to close down the Strait of Hormuz, a portion of which lies within its territorial waters, and has at times seized commercial ships and oil tankers moving through the area alleging smuggling. The U.S. Department of Transportations Maritime Administration advised U.S.-flagged commercial vessels to stay as far from Irans territorial waters as possible and to verbally decline Iranian forces permission to board if asked, according to the guidance. Advertisement Advertisement "It is recommended that U.S.-flagged commercial vessels transiting these waters remain as far as possible from Irans territorial sea without compromising navigational safety," according to the guidance posted on its web site. It also said crews should not forcibly resist Iranian forces if they board. "If Iranian forces board a U.S.-flagged commercial vessel, the crew should not forcibly resist the boarding party," it said. Iran's top diplomat said on Friday that nuclear talks with the U.S. mediated by Oman were off to a good start and set to continue, in remarks that could help allay concern that failure to reach a deal might nudge the Middle East closer to war. Advertisement Advertisement While both sides have indicated readiness to revive diplomacy over Tehran's long-running nuclear dispute with the West, Washington has said it also wants the talks to cover Iran's ballistic missiles, support for armed groups around the region, and human rights. President Donald Trump ratcheted up the pressure on Iran on Friday with an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on imports from any country that "directly or indirectly" purchases goods from Iran, following through on a threat he made last month. (Reporting by Richard Valdmanis, Editing by Nick Zieminski) The White Houses Board of Peace aims to advance Gaza ceasefire, but Hamas control, armed militias, and Rafah crossing delays pose major challenges. The White House is planning to host a meeting of its Board of Peace on February 19, Axios reported over the weekend. This is important because it continues to try to push forward the ceasefire in Gaza. However, as recent Israeli airstrikes have shown, there are many challenges in Gaza. Hamas is still armed, and it is accused of continuing to plot attacks or cause chaos in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement The Board of Peace is supposed to support reconstruction, as well as an international security force and the disarmament ofHamas. In addition, it has an executive board and also a High Representative for Gaza. With so many moving parts, a meeting in mid-February is important. US President ratified the Board of Peace on January 22. The second phase of the Gaza plan began in January. US Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have been pushing for investment in Gaza and reconstruction and other elements of the ceasefire to move forward. Both men were on the US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln over the weekend as US-Iran tensions continue. When the Board of Peace was ratified, the Chief Commissioner of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, Dr. Ali Shaath, said, I want to start by thanking President Donald J. Trump and his Administration for his intensive efforts to advance peace in the whole region These efforts created the opportunity for a new future in Gaza, but what will really matter is what comes next. World leaders gather during a charter announcement for US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, in Davos, Switzerland, January 22, 2026 (credit: REUTERS/JONATHAN ERNST) Shaath is supposed to be running the technical committee that is supposed to help Gaza move toward peace in this phase. However, it doesn't appear his committee has been allowed to do any real work in Gaza. Israel appears to oppose the committee and oppose any links to the Palestinian Authority. Advertisement Advertisement In essence, this means that Hamas remains in control of Gaza. Officials in Jerusalem have said the Palestinian Authority will have no role in governance in Gaza. They have not said Hamas will have no role in governance, which appears to mean Hamas will remain. On the other hand, another phenomenon in Gaza is also concerning. Reports that various militias in Gaza are harassing Gazans who seek to come and go from Rafah raise questions about the policy of having armed militias in Gaza. According to Israels Ynet, four days after Rafah crossing reopened, Gaza residents still disappointed. Only about 20 patients have been allowed to leave Gaza out of some 22,000 requests, while just 75 people have returned after lengthy inspections, limited to one suitcase, a phone, and 600 dollars, amid reports of harassment by Abu Shabab militiamen. The report goes on to say that the frustration Gazans feel from long waits at the border is compounded by having to deal with what appears to be lawlessness in the areas between the border and the half of Gaza still controlled by Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Adding to the frustration are reports of involvement by members of the Abu Shabab militia from Rafah, which is backed by Israel, in interrogating and detaining those returning to Gaza. Palestinian media, particularly Hamas outlets, highlighted the account of Rutanah al-Rakab, who returned from Egypt this week. The report notes that one woman said, after the inspections on the Palestinian side ended, militiamen arrived, declared that they were our brothers and that they were fighting HamasThey grabbed me and tried to hand me over to Israeli forces, but foreign officials operating at the crossing, apparently European monitors, prevented it. Some people said they are being interrogated by the militias, and even handcuffed and blindfolded. They also complain of theft by the militia. The question now remains why Gazans are being given this stark choice of living under Hamas rule, which they have known since 2007, and the chaos of militias. If the people in Gaza feel the militias are a worse choice than Hamas, then they will gravitate back towards Hamas rule. In addition, its not clear what laws the militias operate under to extrajudicially detain people. The reports at Ynet about the militias and the fact that they are armed raise many questions about what is happening in Gaza. Most successful societies are not run by militias Most successful societies are not run by militias. For instance, the fate of armed groups in Yemen and Syria illustrates how fragile these types of groups can be. The same is true in Iraq, where the US backed what was called the awakening of various Sunni tribes in Anbar between 2006 and 2008. Advertisement Advertisement While initially successful, the tribal groups did not bring security in the long term. In other contexts, successful states have done away with militias in favor of formal professional armies. George Washington and the Continental Congress, for instance, sought to professionalize the American Revolution after initial gains by militias near Boston in 1775. Israel immediately got rid of the various armed groups that had been at the forefront of the Jewish underground after the War of Independence. The Haganah basically became the modern IDF, and the Irgun and Stern groups were abolished as armed forces. This saved Israel from the kind of chaos and infighting that divided the Arab irregular fighters of 1947-1948. Another challenge for Gaza is the fact that the opening of the Rafah crossing, a key part of the second phase of the ceasefire, has had many hurdles. CNN reports that the first week of the partial reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt was marked by confusion and logistical hurdles, according to Palestinians attempting to cross and multiple sources who spoke to CNN on condition of anonymity. Advertisement Advertisement The report goes on to say that the disorder resulted in far fewer Palestinians traversing the border between Egypt and Gaza than was expected, nearly two years after Israel seized and shut the crossing. When the partial reopening was announced last week, an Israeli security official told CNN that 150 Palestinians per day would be allowed to leave Gaza, while only 50 would be permitted to enter. But even that detail was unclear, as Egyptian state media reported that only 50 would be allowed to leave and the same number to enter. US President Donald Trump ratified the Board of Peace on January 22. At the time, the new High Representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, said, Who wouldve thought two years ago that we would be sitting here with this group of countries, with this leadership, giving the people of Gaza a new chance? For too long, Gazans, Palestinians, and Israelis have lived with conflict, with death, with destruction. Now, the page turns. In addition, US Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff added, We have achieved a peace deal in Gaza. We have brought the hostages home And maybe most importantly, we have created a sense of hope for what the future can bring in Gaza and all other places where the Board of Peace will operate. And I am so honored, Mr. President, to have worked on this on your behalf. Advertisement Advertisement The February meeting will be an important symbol, a month after the ratification, to get things moving forward. The hurdles of Rafah may have been worked out by then. The question remains now about the role of the militias and whether people in Gaza will have access to any health care or education that is not run by Hamas. If the alternative to Hamas is only men with guns in armed militias, its unlikely people in Gaza will choose that as a preferred way of life. This will essentially just create another cycle of the status quo of Hamas in power. Over the years, some voices have argued that it is a good strategy for Jerusalem to divide Gaza from the West Bank by having Hamas in Gaza. After October 7, its unclear if that strategy will continue. So far, the status quo is that Hamas has regained its rule in half of Gaza. The United States has issued new guidelines to US-flagged ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, calling on them to stay away from Irans territorial waters amid tensions between Washington and Tehran. The advisory, released by the US Maritime Administration on Monday, also urged the captains of the ships against granting Iranian forces permission to board US vessels. If Iranian forces board a US-flagged commercial vessel, the crew should not forcibly resist the boarding party. Refraining from forcible resistance does not imply consent or agreement to that boarding, the guidelines read. Advertisement Advertisement It is recommended that US-flagged commercial vessels transiting these waters remain as far as possible from Irans territorial sea without compromising navigational safety. When transiting eastbound in the Strait of Hormuz, it is recommended that vessels transit close to Omans territorial sea. The recommendations come after the US and Iran held a round of indirect talks in Oman on Friday, following weeks of escalating rhetoric and threats that brought the two countries to the verge of war. Shipping attacks Global shipping lanes and commercial vessels have historically been threatened by geopolitical turmoil, especially in the Middle East. During the Iran-Iraq conflict in the 1980s, both countries targeted merchant ships in what became known as the Tanker War. More recently, Yemens Houthi group launched attacks against Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea in a campaign that the group said was aimed at ending Israels genocidal war on Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement When Israel bombed Iran in June of last year, an Iranian lawmaker suggested that closing the Strait of Hormuz a key shipping lane that connects the Gulf to the Indian Ocean would be an option for Tehran should the war escalate. The US government describes Hormuz as the worlds most important oil chokepoint due to its strategic location as the maritime entryway into the energy-producing region. Late in January, Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted naval military exercises in the strait, prompting the US military to warn Tehran against any unsafe and unprofessional behaviour. The US military later said it shot down an Iranian drone that approached one of its aircraft carriers in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Washington has also previously seized Iranian oil tankers as part of its maximum pressure campaign of sanctions against Tehran. In 2019, the United Arab Emirates reported what it described as sabotage attacks against four ships in its territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman. But there have been no recent public threats by Iran or any other party to vessels in and around the Gulf. The US has been amassing military assets in the region, with US President Donald Trump regularly threatening renewed strikes against Iran, which saw a wave of antigovernment protests last month. Nuclear talks In December, Trump said Washington would attack Iran if the country pushes to rebuild its nuclear and missile programmes. Advertisement Advertisement US forces had bombed Irans three main nuclear facilities during the June 2025 war, which was started by Israel amid ongoing talks between Tehran and Washington at that time. Iranian officials have said current negotiations are exclusively nuclear, but the Trump administration has suggested that it also wants to address Irans missile arsenal and Tehrans support for non-state actors in the region, like Hezbollah and Hamas. On the nuclear front, a major sticking point in the past negotiations has been whether Iran which denies seeking a nuclear weapon would be allowed to enrich uranium domestically. Tehran insists that uranium enrichment is a sovereign right that does not violate its commitments under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Advertisement Advertisement But Trump has pushed for zero enrichment. Asked whether the US has drawn a red line on enrichment in the talks, US Vice President JD Vance told reporters in Armenia on Monday that Trump is the ultimate decider and would likely keep his demands in the negotiations private. If you go back to the original negotiation that happened between us and the Iranians, the president was trying very, very hard to actually strike a constructive deal that would have been good for the United States, Vance said. But frankly, the entire administration agreed if the Iranians were smart enough to have made that agreement, then it would have been good for them, too. By Lucy Papachristou TBILISI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Armenia and the United States agreed on Monday to cooperate in the civil nuclear sector as Washington sought to bolster ties with a former close ally of Russia, months after Washington brokered a peace agreement in the South Caucasus. A statement on the nuclear sector deal was signed by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is on a two-day visit to the country. Advertisement Advertisement The two said they had completed negotiations on what is known as a 123 Agreement, which allows the U.S. to legally license nuclear technology and equipment to other countries. The agreement will allow up to $5 billion in initial U.S. exports to Armenia, plus an additional $4 billion in longer-term fuel and maintenance contracts, Vance said. "This agreement will open a new chapter in the deepening energy partnership between Armenia and the United States," Pashinyan said at a joint press conference with Vance. Long heavily dependent on Russia and Iran for its energy supplies, Armenia is now reviewing proposals from U.S., Russian, Chinese, French and South Korean companies to construct a new nuclear reactor to replace its sole, ageing Russian-built nuclear power plant, Metsamor. Advertisement Advertisement No choice has yet been made, but Monday's announcement paves the way for an American project to be selected. That would deal a blow to Russia, which traditionally has viewed the South Caucasus as its sphere of influence but whose clout there has diminished as a result of its invasion of Ukraine. Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, interviewed by the media outlet Izvestia, said a Russian proposal for a new nuclear plant was the best option and state nuclear corporation Rosatom was ready to proceed with it. "Rosatom is ready to proceed very quickly with the implementation of this project, of course in accordance with the wishes of our Armenian friends," Galuzin was quoted as saying. "There are no real alternatives in terms of the availability of reliable, proven technologies, as well as the attractiveness of financial parameters." Advertisement Advertisement 'DIVERSIFY PARTNERS' "Considering Armenia's multiplicity of dependencies on Russia, it is a political priority to diversify partners when it comes to nuclear cooperation," said Narek Sukiasyan, a political scientist in Yerevan. "The United States seems to be the preference now." Vance's visit comes just six months after the Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders signed an agreement at the White House seen as the first step towards peace after nearly 40 years of war. Vance was also seeking to advance the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)", a proposed 43-kilometre (27-mile) corridor that would run across southern Armenia and give Azerbaijan a direct route to its exclave of Nakhchivan and in turn to Turkey, Baku's close ally. Advertisement Advertisement The route would better connect Asia to Europe while, crucially for Washington, bypassing Russia and Iran at a time when Western countries are keen on diversifying energy and trade routes away from Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. The TRIPP corridor, which envisages new or updated rail infrastructure, oil and gas pipelines and fibre-optic cables, would transform the South Caucasus, a region riven by closed borders and longstanding ethnic conflicts. Galuzin told Izvestia that Moscow was studying the TRIPP proposal. "We're not just making peace for Armenia," Vance said. "We're also creating real prosperity for Armenia and the United States together." Advertisement Advertisement He is set to visit Azerbaijan on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the White House. (Reporting by Lucy Papachristou in Tbilisi; Additional reporting by Steve Holland in Washington; Editing by Gareth Jones, Mark Heinrich, Ron Popeski and Chris Reese) A health care worker places a bandage on a child after giving a vaccination shot. New federal guidance to reduce the number of recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11 comes as states are already charting their own course on vaccine policy. (Scott Housley/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) LINCOLN A leading authority on infectious diseases says Nebraskans need to brace themselves for an increase in measles cases and possibly other maladies including polio, due to a state decrease in childhood vaccinations. Among Nebraska seventh graders, vaccination rates for all four major vaccines fell, according to an annual report by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services in December. Vaccine rate changes In 2025, the U.S. recorded the most measles cases (2,255) since 1992, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That year was before doctors routinely recommended two measles shots. Advertisement Advertisement Public health officials now worry that the U.S. will lose its measles elimination status, which it has held since 2000. In Nebraska, six measles cases have been confirmed in the past year: one in Sheridan County in May, four in one household in Platte County in late December, and a recent Lancaster County case. The state had not seen a confirmed case of measles since 2017. Rates for incoming kindergarten students in 2024-25 fell in three of five categories, with the percentage of students getting the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine falling just below the 95% mark (see graphic) deemed necessary to prevent a pandemic. (The rate for seventh graders was about 97%) Vaccination rates for hepatitis B and varicella (chickenpox) shots incrased slightly in kids entering kindergarten, according to the survey, though the rates for polio and Dtap (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) decreased slightly to 96% and just above 95%, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Exact percentages used to create the graphic were not included in the Dec. 31 DHHS report, and when asked for them, the Examiner was told to file a public records request, a request DHHS later said would take until March to fulfill. Measles, and vaccinations for the highly infectious disease, have made headlines recently after major outbreaks in South Carolina and west Texas. Nebraska officials have fielded five reports of measles cases since late December, including the first case in 36 years in the states second-most populous county, Lancaster. The disease was detected in the wastewater of Lincoln twice last week. This comes as Trump administration health officials, led by vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have reduced the number of recommended vaccines, and as the head of the nations vaccine advisory committee suggested that individual freedom was more important than protecting community health with vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Mark Rupp, interim chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, said the nation is witnessing the impact of decreased vaccination rates in the form of measles outbreaks. We should anticipate that such outbreaks will become more frequent and more widespread, Rupp said. Where to check your status To make sure you are adequately vaccinated or immune, check the DHHS site, https://nesiis-dhhs-prod.ne.gov/, Rupp said. Those born before 1957 are generally regarded as immune because measles was so widespread at that time, he said. In an outbreak situation, or if a person is concerned, Rupp said that those with one dose of vaccine should get a second dose. Advertisement Advertisement Individuals who are concerned can get a blood test to see if they have antibodies to measles and are immune, he added. Because measles is the most contagious childhood illness, he said it will be the first to show up. But if vaccination trends continue to fall, Rupp predicted that outbreaks of polio, whooping cough and mumps will follow. They would be most likely to occur in pockets around the country and in Nebraska, he added. A January report from Johns Hopkins University indicated that overall vaccination rates for measles, mumps and rubella for Nebraskas kindergarteners has been on a steady but slow decline in recent years, dropping from 96% over in 2020-21 to about 94% in the past two years. Advertisement Advertisement A vaccination rate of 95% has been calculated as necessary to prevent the spread of measles in a community. That rate was also the target of the Healthy People 2030 initiative, launched by the federal Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion in 2020 to improve the nations health and well-being. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services blamed the decline in vaccinations on a loss of trust in public health officials. Between 2020 and 2024, that trust fell from 72% to 40%, according to HHS. That is a much deeper decline that found in polling by the Kaiser Family Foundation, which found a drop of 65% to 61% in trust of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control over 18 months ending in June 2023. The trust level for local public health officials was 54%, down 10% over that period, according to KFF, which found a 30-percentage point difference between the trust level of those officials by Democrats and Republicans. Rupp, meanwhile, cited the decrease in trust of science, medicine and authority, as well as a well-organized, misinformation campaign by anti-vaccine groups. Rupp said directives from the federal government that undermine public health and vaccines have also contributed. Advertisement Advertisement Alycia Davis, a spokeswoman for the Nebraska DHHS, said the agency is working with local health departments and providers to share best practices and educational materials that highlight the importance of vaccines as the best protection against preventable diseases. DHHS, she said, also encourages doctors and other providers to have proactive conversations with patients about the importance of protecting their loved ones via vaccinations. Professional medical societies, Rupp said, are trying to combat disinformation about vaccines. Nebraskas DHHS has created an online database, the Nebraska State Immunization Information System or NESIIS, to help patients, parents and providers track someones individual vaccine status. Individual providers continue to support vaccination as the smartest way to prevent disease, Dr. Rupp said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Venezuela has freed Juan Pablo Guanipa, a political ally of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, after eight months in detention, his son has said. The former vice-president of the National Assembly is among several political prisoners to have been released since the US captured Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro in January. "Our entire family will be able to hug again soon," Ramon Guanipa wrote on social media, cautioning: "There are still hundreds of Venezuelans unjustly imprisoned." Advertisement Advertisement Opposition and human rights groups say the government under Maduro had for years used detentions of political prisoners to stamp out dissent and silence critics. Though the interim government instituted in his absence promised on 8 January that "a significant number" of detainees would be released, this has progressed slowly in the weeks since, with a handful being released at a time. Foro Penal, which provides assistance to political prisoners in Venezuela, says nearly 400 people have been released. Its president Alfredo Romero said at least 30 people had been freed on Sunday, including Guanipa. Perkins Rocha, Jesus Armas and Luis Tarbay were also named as having been released. Advertisement Advertisement Since Venezuela's widely disputed presidential election in 2024 - which saw Maduro officially re-elected despite opposition tallies suggesting their candidate had won by a landslide - critics of his regime said legal proceedings against activists, journalists and Maduro's political adversaries increased. Among them was Guanipa, who went into hiding after being accused of terrorism and treason for challenging the 2024 result. He was tracked down by Venezuela's security forces and detained in May 2025. Opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado, who was also in hiding at the time, said her colleague had been "kidnapped" in "an act of state terrorism". Advertisement Advertisement Guanipa is the leader of the centre-right Justice First party. He was elected governor of the Zulia region but barred from taking office after he refused to swear an oath before Maduro's National Constituent Assembly. Guanipa was tracked down and detained by Venezuela's security forces in May 2025 [Reuters] With Maduro standing trial on drug trafficking charges in New York, Guanipa's son appeared sceptical a few days after the interim government announced its "goodwill gesture". Ramon Guanipa told BBC Mundo at the time that he felt "defeated" when his father was not among the first detainees to be released. "But at the same time, you find another reason to fight," he said. "I'm fighting for them [the interim government] to actually do what they say they're going to do." Advertisement Advertisement Releasing political prisoners was one of US President Donald Trump's demands of the interim government, describing it as "a very important and smart gesture" from Venezuela. He chose not to install Machado as Venezuela's president after capturing Maduro in a daring raid on Caracas, instead allowing Maduro ally Delcy Rodriguez to take over. In the weeks since, Rafael Tudares, the son-in-law of Edmundo Gonzalez, who stood against Maduro in 2024's election after Machado was barred, has been released, as has prominent Venezuelan rights activist Javier Tarazona. CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) Venezuela's top prosecutor said on Monday that his office had requested the arrest of one of the closest allies of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, less than 12 hours after his release from a detention facility as part of a government move to free those facing politically motivated accusations. The attorney generals statement did not say whether Juan Pablo Guanipa was rearrested, or give indication of his whereabouts. The government had released him along with several other prominent opposition members on Sunday following lengthy politically motivated detentions. Attorney General Tarek William Saab's office posted on social media that it had requested the competent court to revoke the precautionary measure granted to Juan Pablo Guanipa, due to his non-compliance with the conditions imposed by the aforementioned court. Advertisement Advertisement It did not elaborate on what conditions Guanipa, a former governor for the opposition, violated during the hours he was free, but said authorities were seeking house arrest. Guanipa's son, Ramon, told reporters Monday that a group of men in three vehicles intercepted his father and others traveling around 11:45 p.m. Sunday in a neighborhood in the capital, Caracas. They were armed with long guns and wore civilian clothes and bulletproof vests. Ramon Guanipa said authorities have not yet notified him of his father's whereabouts and their decision to place him on house arrest. He said his father did not violate the two conditions of his release monthly check-ins with a court and no travel outside Venezuela and showed reporters the court document listing them. Prisoners released Advertisement Advertisement The development marked the latest twist in the political turmoil in Venezuela in the wake of the U.S. military's seizure on Jan. 3 of then-President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from a military base compound in Caracas in a stunning operation that landed them in New York to face federal drug trafficking charges. The government of Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez began releasing prisoners days after she was sworn in and has faced mounting pressure to free hundreds of people whose detentions months or years ago have been linked to their political activities. The releases also followed a visit to Venezuela of representatives of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Venezuelan-based prisoners rights group Foro Penal confirmed the release of at least 30 people Sunday. Some of those freed Sunday joined families waiting outside detention facilities for their loved ones. They chanted We are not afraid! We are not afraid! and marched a short distance. Advertisement Advertisement I am convinced that our country has completely changed, Guanipa told reporters after his release. I am convinced that it is now up to all of us to focus on building a free and democratic country. Guanipa had spent more than eight months in custody at a facility in Caracas. My father cannot be a criminal ... simply for making statements, Ramon Guanipa said. "How much longer will speaking out be a crime in this country? Several members of Machados political organization were among the released Sunday, including attorney Perkins Rocha and local organizer Maria Oropeza, who had in 2024 livestreamed her arrest by military intelligence officers as they broke into her home with a crowbar. Rocha was released to house arrest. Advertisement Advertisement They are terrified that Venezuelan society will mobilize and express its voice civically, Machado, referring to Rodriguez's government, told reporters Monday in Washington. But let me tell you something, theres no going back... What will Juan Pablo become now? What will Perkins become as a prisoner in his own home? A reference in this fight. Long detentions for political activities Guanipa was detained in late May and accused by Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello of participating in an alleged terrorist group that was plotting to boycott that months legislative election. Guanipas brother Tomas rejected the accusation, and said the arrest was meant to crack down on dissent. Rodriguezs government announced Jan. 8 that it would free a significant number of those arrested a central demand of the countrys opposition and human rights organizations with backing from the United States but families and rights watchdogs have criticized authorities for the slow pace of the releases. Advertisement Advertisement The ruling party-controlled National Assembly last week began debating an amnesty bill that could lead to the release of hundreds. The opposition and nongovernmental organizations have reacted with cautious optimism as well as with suggestions and demands for more information on the contents of the proposal. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, who is the acting president's brother, on Friday posted a video on Instagram showing him outside a detention center in Caracas and saying that everyone would be released no later than next week, once the amnesty bill is approved. Delcy Rodriguez, the acting president, and Volker Turk, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, spoke by phone in late January. His spokesperson, Ravina Shamdasani, in a statement said he sent a team to the country and offered our support to help Venezuela work on a road map for dialogue and reconciliation" in which human rights should be centered. ___ This story is part of an ongoing collaboration between The Associated Press and FRONTLINE (PBS) that includes an upcoming documentary. LONDON, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's director of communications Tim Allan has resigned, Sky News reported Monday. "I have decided to stand down to allow a new No10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success," Allan said in a brief statement sent to local media. Allan took up the post of director of communications in September 2025 and served in the role for five months. Another senior official, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on Sunday from his post as Starmer's chief of staff following controversy over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States. Starmer has asked his deputy chiefs of staff, Jill Cuthbertson and Vidhya Alakeson, to serve as acting chiefs of staff. Starmer on Thursday apologized for his decision to appoint Mandelson as the ambassador, after fresh revelations about the former official's links to Jeffrey Epstein sparked political scandals in Britain. Mandelson was appointed ambassador to Washington in early 2025 but was dismissed by Starmer after seven months as renewed questions about his past emerged. Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said colleague and longtime government critic Juan Pablo Guanipa was "kidnapped" by armed men late Sunday, hours after he and 34 other jailed politicians were released from prison. "A few minutes ago, Juan Pablo Guanipa was kidnapped in the Los Chorros neighborhood of Caracas," Machado, a Nobel Peace laureate, said in an early Monday social media statement. "Heavily armed men dressed in civilian clothes arrived in four vehicles and took him away by force. We demand his immediate release." Advertisement Advertisement Guanipa's son, Ramon Guanipa, confirmed the abduction in a recorded statement. He said his father was "ambushed" by about 10 unidentified people at around 11:45 p.m. local time Sunday. "They pointed weapons at him, were heavily armed and took him away by force," Ramon Guanipa said. "I demand that due process be respected immediately. I hold the regime responsible for anything that happens to my parents. Enough of so much repression." Guanipa is widely regarded as the leader of the center-right Primero Justicia party, and Machado is a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader closely aligned with him. Advertisement Advertisement His Primero Justicia party reported that he was last seen being loaded by armed men into a silver Toyota Corolla. The Vente Venezuela party, which was founded by Machado, said four cars were involved in the abduction. Primero Justicia, which translates to Justice First in English, said it holds acting President Delcy Rodriguez, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez and Partido Socialista Unido de Venezuela leader Diosdado Cabello "responsible for any harm to Juan Pablo's life." "We call on the international community for the immediate release of Juan Pablo Guanipa and for an immediate and unconditional end to the persecution of the opposition," Primero Justicia said in a statement. "Venezuela is determined to change and yearns for justice." Advertisement Advertisement Guanipa was among the 35 political prisoners Venezuela had released over Sunday, Alfredo Romero, president of rights group Foro Penal, said in a statement. Uncorroborated videos and pictures posted online show Guanipa celebrating and riding on the back of a motorcycle through the streets while brandishing a Venezuelan flag. He also gave several media interviews and spoke to cheering supporters in Caracas. "VICTORY FOR THE VENEZUELAN PEOPLE," he said on a post to his X account. "LONG LIVE A FREE VENEZUELA!" VICTORIA DE LOS VENEZOLANOS VIVA VENEZUELA LIBRE! pic.twitter.com/3AeXxkvWz8 Juan Pablo Guanipa (@JuanPGuanipa) February 8, 2026 Following the announcements from the opposition leaders, the government of U.S.-detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro issued a statement saying its Public Prosecutor's Office had asked the court to revoke Guanipa's conditional release, alleging he had violated its conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors asked the judge to move Guanipa to house arrest. The alleged violations were not made public. Prosecutors said house arrest was necessary "in order to safeguard the criminal proceedings," referring to the case that led to Guanipa's detention eight months ago. Guanipa was detained by the Maduro regime on May 23, just before regional and parliamentary elections. The U.S. State Department said in response that he was among some 70 arrested at that time. The opposition leader was detained on terrorism-related charges, with authorities alleging he was the leader of a terrorist group seeking to sabotage the May 25 elections. Guanipa's whereabouts were not immediately clear. Foro Penal president Alfredo Romero said, "We do not have clear information about who took him." Feb 8 (Reuters) - Venezuelan authorities on Sunday said they were seeking court approval to put prominent opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa under house arrest, shortly after he was seized by armed men in Caracas in what his son called a kidnapping. The incident came hours after Guanipa, a close ally of Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, was released from jail after being held more than eight months on accusations of leading a terrorist plot. Venezuela's Public Ministry said in a statement that Guanipa broke the terms of his release, but did not provide details. It did not address whether he had been re-arrested. Advertisement Advertisement GOVERNMENT HAS PROMISED AMNESTY LAW The incident casts uncertainty over government pledges to pass an amnesty law and free political prisoners, as U.S. pressure mounts a month after the Trump administration captured and deposed long-time leader Nicolas Maduro. The politician's son, Ramon Guanipa, and Machado, who won the Nobel for her efforts to unseat Maduro, both said he had been forcibly taken by unidentified men. "Heavily armed men dressed in civilian clothes arrived in four vehicles and took him away by force," Machado said in a post on X. The younger Guanipa said in a social media video: "My father has again been kidnapped." Advertisement Advertisement Just hours before, Juan Pablo Guanipa had posted videos to social media in which he spoke to journalists and a crowd of cheering supporters. He urged the release of other political prisoners and called the current administration illegitimate. Maduro's re-election in 2024 was widely seen as rigged and a number of countries, including the U.S., do not recognize his government's legitimacy. HUNDREDS RELEASED SINCE JANUARY 8 Guanipa had said in an interview with a local online outlet that he spoke briefly with Machado after being released, and hoped to speak with her further the next day. Venezuela's opposition and human rights groups have said for years that the country's socialist government uses detentions to stamp out dissent. Advertisement Advertisement The government denies holding political prisoners and says those jailed have committed crimes. Officials say nearly 900 of these people have been released, but they have not been clear about the timeline and appear to be including releases from previous years. The government has not provided an official list of how many prisoners will be released or revealed their identities. Rights group Foro Penal has said 383 political prisoners had been freed since the Venezuelan government announced on January 8 that it would begin a new series of releases. It counted another 35 releases on Sunday, including opposition politician Freddy Superlano and lawyer Perkins Rocha, also close allies of Machado. The group's director, Alfredo Romero, said on social media they did not yet have clear information about who took Guanipa. (Reporting by Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru and Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by Sonali Paul, Lincoln Feast and Alex Richardson) Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said her opposition colleague Juan Pablo Guanipa has been kidnapped just hours after being released from detention. The Nobel Peace Prize winner said on Sunday that Guanipa, leader of the Justice First party, was taken in the Los Chorros neighbourhood of the capital, Caracas. "Heavily armed men dressed in civilian clothes arrived in four vehicles and took him away by force," she wrote on social media early on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement A former vice-president of the National Assembly, Guanipa spent eight months in prison and was among several political prisoners released since the US seized Venezuela's then-president Nicolas Maduro in January. Guanipa's centre-right party said he had been kidnapped by the "repressive forces of the dictatorship" while he was moving between locations. They added that those accompanying him said weapons were pointed at the group before Guanipa was loaded into a car. "We hold Delcy Rodriguez, Jorge Rodriguez, and Diosdado Cabello responsible for any harm to Juan Pablo's life," Justice First wrote on social media, referring to Venezuela's interim president, the National Assembly speaker, and the interior minister respectively. Advertisement Advertisement The party also called on the international community to demand the "immediate release" of Guanipa and an end to the Venezuelan government's "persecution of the opposition". Another key figure in Venezuela's opposition, Edmundo Gonzalez, demanded proof of life, saying on X that the "absence of information" on Guanipa's whereabouts "constitutes a forced disappearance". Just hours earlier, Guanipa's son Ramon was celebrating his father's release on social media: "Our entire family will be able to hug again soon." He subsequently posted a video online, in which he demanded immediate proof that his father was still alive. Advertisement Advertisement "I hold the regime responsible for anything that happens to my father. Enough of this repression," Ramon Guanipa said in the video. Guanipa was among at least 30 people freed on Sunday, according to Foro Penal, which provides assistance to political prisoners in Venezuela. The leader of the Justice First party, he was elected governor of the Zulia region in 2017 but was barred from taking office after he refused to swear an oath before Maduro's National Constituent Assembly. Guanipa went into hiding after being accused of terrorism and treason for challenging the 2024 election result. Advertisement Advertisement He was tracked down by Venezuela's security forces and detained in May 2025. Opposition and human rights groups say the government under Maduro had for years used detentions of political prisoners to stamp out dissent and silence critics. UPDATE (9:11 am, February 11): According to Eyewitness News anchor Thomas Payeur, the district has voted 654-211 to maintain the district as of midnight Wednesday morning. These numbers are unofficial, and still need verification from the Oneida and Herkimer County Boards of Elections. With the vote, there is little possibility that the Poland Volunteer Fire Company shut down in August by fire commissioners will return to service. POLAND, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) On Tuesday, members of the Poland Joint Fire District which covers several towns and villages in the area will vote on whether or not to keep the district going. Advertisement Advertisement The vote scheduled to be held on Tuesday, February 10 follows a suspension of the Poland Volunteer Fire Department in August of 2025 by the Poland Joint Fire District, which includes parts of several towns and villages in Herkimer and Oneida Counties. The district was formed in 2017 after several municipalities Poland, Cold Brook, Russia, Newport, Ohio, Norway, and parts of Deerfield contracted with fire companies to provide coverage to those areas. In August, the Poland Joint Fire District suspended Polands volunteer fire department, citing a lack of confidence in the departments ability to provide support to members of the district, according to a statement made by District Commissioner and Chair Andrew Topham to the Daily Sentinel. The suspension removed the department from the workings of the district, as well as removed them from the 911 call list. According to the Poland Volunteer Fire Department, that action by the fire district has denied the company the right to provide service to the area they serve. On August 19th of 2025, fire commissioners voted to remove the Poland Volunteer Fire Department from fire suppression services after 121 years in service. Advertisement Advertisement The suspension of the department and its eventual shutdown has caused a vocal back-and-forth debate over the actions of the district. One side claims that under the fire district, there is direct accountability to residents for services and costs. The other side claims that suspending the department would increase response time and decrease service for residents. A Yes vote from residents on Tuesday will dissolve the fire district and, with it, open up the possibility of restoring services to the Poland Volunteer Fire Company. A No vote would keep the configuration intact, and the Poland Volunteer Fire Company would remain suspended as it was in August. Voting will take place on Tuesday, February 10, from 4 pm to 9 pm at the Town of Russias Municipal Building on North Main Street in Poland. Residents of Poland, Cold Brook, Ohio, Russia, Newport, Norway and the portion of the village of Deerfield that is in the district are all eligible to vote. NOTE: The video above is from an Eyewitness News report on the shutdown of the Poland Volunteer Fire Department from August 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. (Photo by Lenin Nolly/NurPhoto via AP) The family of Virginia Giuffre, the late victim of the also-deceased Jeffrey Epstein, sent a strong message to Ghislaine Maxwell Monday after the sex criminal pleaded the fifth during her testimony before Congress. Maxwell, who is serving 20 years for her role in Epsteins crimes, appeared remotely from a Texas prison for a House Oversight Committee deposition on Monday. She invoked her Fifth Amendment right to silence, which Maxwells attorney claimed she would continue to do unless shes granted clemency by President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-KY) called Maxwells decision to remain silent very disappointing. Journalist Aaron Parnas posted the Giuffre familys letter to X. It read, in part: Ghislaine Maxwell, you were not a bystander. You were not misled. You were a central, deliberate actor in a system built to find children, isolate them, groom them, and deliver them to abuse. You used trust as a weapon. You targeted vulnerability and turned it into access. NEW: The family of Virginia Giuffre released the following letter directed at Ghislaine Maxwell: Ghislaine, you deserve to spend the rest of your life in a jail cell. Trapped in a cage forever just like you trapped your victims. pic.twitter.com/9rKdUNg0Ra Aaron Parnas (@AaronParnas) February 9, 2026 As Virginia said, Ghislaine was a monster; she was often more vicious and cruel than Epstein. Put it this way: Epstein was Pinocchio and she was Geppetto. She was the guy controlling,' the letter read, continuing: Forgiveness is neither owed nor offered to you, Ghislaine. We further urge Congress to continue its investigation into the extraordinary leniency that was extended to Ghislaine with the consent, consultation, or even the knowledge of the survivors. Such actions undermine public trust and and the pursuit of justice. Moreover in light of the recent release of files, significant inconsistencies have emerged between the record and your prior sworn testimony. Should it be determined that you knowingly provided false statements under oath, we will call upon this Committee and Congress to act decisively and pursue any and all additional charges warranted by the evidence. The family ended the letter by articulating Virginias last wish for you: Ghislaine you deserve to spend the rest of of your life in a jail cell. Trapped in a cage forever just like you trapped your victims.' Advertisement Advertisement Virginia Giuffre was one of Epsteins most prominent survivors, having appeared in a photo with the now disgraced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. She died by suicide in April 2025 at the age of 41. The post Virginia Giuffres Family Torches Ghislaine Maxwell in Thermonuclear Letter: You Deserve to Be Trapped in a Cage Forever first appeared on Mediaite. The Brief A Virginia man is charged in two cold case Montgomery County rape cases. DNA evidence from 1988 led investigators to identify Carl Rice Jr. as the suspect. Detectives believe additional victims may still be unaccounted for. GAITHERSBURG, Md. - A Virginia man has been charged in two Montgomery County sexual assault cases dating back more than 35 years, and detectives believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Advertisement Advertisement An arrest warrant issued in December charges Carl Rice Jr., of Mitchells, Virginia, with two counts of firstdegree rape and kidnapping, two counts of firstdegree sex offense, three counts of firstdegree assault and two counts of seconddegree assault. The charges stem from two attacks on females in 1988 and 1990. Investigators allege that on June 24, 1988, a female leaving the Friendship Heights Metro station was approached by Rice who forcibly pulled her across the street and sexually assaulted her. On Sept. 19, 1990, investigators say Rice offered another female a ride home after identifying himself as "Kevin." When she tried to get out of the car, he restrained her, drove to a location in Bethesda and sexually assaulted her. Virginia man charged in decades old rape cases, additional victims feared (Montgomery County Department of Police) The break in the case came in February 2025, when detectives received a CODIS DNA match they say linked Rice to evidence recovered from the 1988 assault. Advertisement Advertisement Rice is currently serving a prison sentence in Virginia and has been arrested previously in other jurisdictions on rape and sexualassaultrelated charges, authorities say. Based on the circumstances of the cases, investigators believe there may be more victims. Anyone with information or who believes they may have been victimized by Carl Rice Jr. is urged to contact the Montgomery County Police Major Crimes Division at 2407735070 or Crime Solvers of Montgomery County at 1866411TIPS (8477). The Source Information in this article comes from the Montgomery County Department of Police. WICHITA, Kan. (The Wichita Eagle) In about a month, Wichita voters will head to the polls to decide whether to implement a 1% citywide sales tax. If voters approve the measure, Wichita would join several of its suburbs in having such a tax, including Derby, Haysville, Maize and Park City. Wichitas 1% citywide tax would go on top of an existing 1% sales tax in Sedgwick County, making the total sales tax in the city 2%. Advertisement Advertisement Because this election is not an ordinary one, you likely have questions. We gathered answers to common questions about the sales tax to help you make your final decision before Tuesday, March 3. Heres what to know about the proposal. What is the ballot wording for the sales tax initiative? Heres what voters will see on their ballot March 3: 1. Shall the City of Wichita, Kansas, be authorized, pursuant to K.S.A. 12-187 et seq., to impose a one percent (1.0%) city-wide retailers sales tax to be effective July 1, 2026, and which will terminate no later than June 30, 2033, the revenues derived therefrom to be applied as follows? A. An amount not to exceed $225 million dollars of such tax applied to Public Safety costs for support of City police and fire facility construction and maintenance, the acquisition of vehicles, apparatus and equipment and other purposes related to providing Police and Fire Services for the City; Advertisement Advertisement B. An amount not to exceed $250 million dollars of such tax applied to pay the costs for Revitalization of Century II (not to exceed $25 Million) and Upgraded and Expanded Convention Center Improvements (not to exceed $225 Million); C. An amount not to exceed $150 million dollars of such tax applied for Property Tax Relief; D. An amount not to exceed $150 million dollars of such tax applied to establish a restricted-special fund, with earnings from such fund to be reinvested into this special fund, to support Homeless and Housing Services by funding affordable housing projects and programs, shelter facilities, a multi-agency center and its operations and related services for people experiencing homelessness; and E. An amount not to exceed $75 million dollars of such tax applied for Development and Construction of a New Downtown Public Performing Arts Center. Voters will be given two choices: yes or no. Yes signifies a positive vote for implementing the sales tax, while no votes indicate you do not support the additional charge. Who can vote in Wichitas sales tax election? Anyone who resides in the city limits is eligible to vote on the tax question in March. Advertisement Advertisement Residents not yet registered to vote must do so by Tuesday, Feb. 10. What is Wichita Forward? A nonprofit coalition called Wichita Forward created the sales tax proposal and is now campaigning for it. The organization is made up of business officials across the city, started by Aaron Bastian of Fidelity Bank; Ben Hutton of Hutton and Jon Rolph of Thrive Restaurant Group. Why is the election in March? Because this is a special election called by the Wichita City Council, it will be held outside the usual election cycle, in this case March 3. The election will cost the city $170,000 to conduct, $20,000 of which is being used for alternative polling locations. Advertisement Advertisement Sedgwick County Election Commissioner Laura Rainwater said some of the polling location changes were to be more cost-efficient or because sites already had scheduling conflicts. What does the $850 million fund? The sales tax is estimated to bring in $850 million over the next seven years. Of that, the current plan would set aside up to $25 million for Century II, the citys convention and performing arts center, while dedicating up to $225 million to a convention center expansion and up to $75 million for a new, private-public partnership to build a $150 million performing arts center. Up to $225 million would go to unspecified public safety capital improvement projects, while up to $150 million would go to a nonprofit to run the city-owned Second Light homeless services or any other multi-agency center and an affordable housing fund, although the share of funding each of those projects would receive is unclear. Advertisement Advertisement Finally, up to $150 million would go to property tax relief. Will Wichitas proposed sales tax also be applied to grocery and food purchases? Yes, the 1% sales tax would apply to groceries and food. This is due to a Kansas law that requires all sales taxes in the state to be uniform, which does not allow the city to select what it wants to be taxed and what to exempt. A bill in the Legislature seeks to change this, but its outcome is uncertain. Will SNAP and WIC be taxed? No. Any purchases using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP, or Women, Infants and Children, WIC, benefits will not be taxed. Thats because of Kansas Statute 79-3606, which exempts SNAP and WIC benefits from such taxes, the Kansas Department of Revenue confirmed to The Wichita Eagle. Advertisement Advertisement With a population of more than 530,000 people, Sedgwick County has more than 20,000 households that receive SNAP benefits, data from the Kansas Department for Children and Families shows. Thats 47,980 individuals, more than 22,000 of them children. How long will this sales tax last? The proposal would implement the tax for seven years, through 2033. Has Wichita tried to approve a sales tax before? This is not the first time Wichita has put a sales tax proposal on its ballot. In 2014, the city asked for a 1% tax to pay for new water supply and several other city developments. However, that proposal was overwhelmingly rejected by voters. How much would the tax proposal save me in property taxes? Part of the plan for the sales tax revenue, if the proposal passes, is $150 million the city would put toward property tax relief. The amount that would allow the city to lower its mill levy rate by about four mills, president and CEO of Fidelity Bank and Wichita Forward co-founder Aaron Bastian told The Eagle. Advertisement Advertisement That would equal $46 in savings for every $100,000 in appraised home value. How will the sales tax directly impact Wichita families? According to the citys conservative estimates, the 1% sales tax would cost an average Wichita family an addition $352 a year. A married couple with two children making the median household income of $63,072 would pay an additional $183 a year, according to an IRS Deduction Calculator. This article was produced as part of the Wichita Journalism Collaborative, a partnership of 10 organizations and community groups, including KSN-TV. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown said a new agreement with the U.S. Department of Education will protect about $1.4 billion in federal education funding for students across the state after a legal dispute over civil rights requirements. Attorney General Nick Brown and a coalition of 18 other attorneys general have reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education that preserves about $1.4 billion in federal funding for Washington schools serving students from low-income families, English learners, children with disabilities and other vulnerable students. The agreement follows an April 3, 2025, notice from the Department of Education telling state and local agencies they must certify compliance with the Trump administrations new interpretation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 related to diversity, equity and inclusion efforts or risk losing federal education funding. Good news for Washington: Weve secured an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education protecting about $1.4 billion that funds equal access to education for students from low-income families, children with disabilities, English learners, and other students across the state. pic.twitter.com/l9MXMWFTF1 Attorney General Nick Brown (@AGOWA) February 9, 2026 Washington acknowledged it complies with federal nondiscrimination laws but refused to sign the new certification, saying there was no lawful or practical way to do so because the requirements were vague, contradictory and unsupported. Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Education treated our childrens futures as pawns in their war on representation and inclusion, Brown said. Im gratified that weve reached an agreement that protects these critical supports for kids so they can reach their full potential in school. On April 25, 2025, Brown and a multistate coalition sued the department, arguing the threatened loss of funding violated the Spending Clause, the Appropriations Clause, separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act. A related case filed in federal court in Maryland American Federation of Teachers, et al. v. United States Department of Education resulted in a ruling that vacated the April 3 certification demand. That decision later became final after the administration dropped its appeal. Advertisement Advertisement The agreement announced Monday resolves the lawsuit brought by Washington and other states and requires the Department of Education to apply the relief from the teachers union case to schools in Washington. It prevents the administration from withholding funding based on the disputed conditions and formally dismisses the states lawsuit under the terms of the settlement. The funding affected supports a wide range of education needs, including programs for students from low-income families, recruitment and training of teachers, services for students learning English, and assistance for children in foster care or experiencing homelessness. Attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin joined Brown in signing the agreement. Sen. Heather Berghmans (D-Albuquerque), one of the sponsors of Senate Bill 17. The Senate on Saturday passed the proposal to ban sales of some guns and accessories, and to require gun sellers to maintain records of all sales and install security measures. The bill now heads to the House. (Danielle Prokop/Source NM) New Mexico Lawmakers had a long weekend well, a long work weekend. Senators met until just nearly 7 p.m. Saturday, advancing a new measure to limit some gun sales. Meanwhile, a bill Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham supports that would loosen restrictions on the use of oil and wastewater was tabled in the House. Advertisement Advertisement And in case you missed Source NMs weekend coverage, a bill aimed at reducing emissions is making its way through the Senate: Heres more on what you might have missed over the weekend from the Roundhouse: Gun bill clears Senate, heads for House next After about five hours of debate Saturday and several failed amendments, New Mexico senators passed legislation on a 21-17 vote proposing a ban on sales of certain guns, and requiring gun dealers to keep inventory records and to install security measures. Democratic sponsors on Senate Bill 17, which include Albuquerque Sens. Debbie OMalley and Heather Berghmans from Albuquerque, have said in committees the bill mandates that gun sellers meet the same requirements New Mexico has for alcohol and cannabis sellers. Advertisement Advertisement Three Democrats: Sens. Joseph Cervantes of Las Cruces, Benny Shendo Jr. of Jemez Pueblo and Angel Charley of Acoma, joined all Senate Republicans in voting against the bill. SB17, called the Stop the Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act, emerged after Democratic lawmakers reviewed a December report from advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. Many of the guns found at New Mexico crime scenes were recovered within 50 miles of the retailer that initially sold them, the report says. Republicans introduced two amendments on the floor during debate, but both failed. Sen. Crystal Brantely (R-Elephant Butte) tried to strike SB17s limits on sales of magazines, .50-caliber rifles and machine guns. Sen. Jay Block (R-Rio Rancho) attempted to amend the requirement that gun dealers can only hire people 21 and older, requesting exceptions for veterans or completion of hunting safety certification. Lujan Grisham, who urged passage of the bill during her State of the State address, said she was grateful for the Senates vote and encouraged the House to pass the bill. Advertisement Advertisement New Mexicans deserve to feel safe in their communities, and that means keeping guns out of the hands of criminals,Lujan Grisham said in a statement after the vote. This bill holds gun dealers to the same basic standards expected of any responsible business securing inventory, training employees, and preventing illegal sales. Opposition from gun shops, firearm rights groups and Republicans said the bill infringes the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, particularly the limits to ban the sales of certain guns. Today, Democrats in Santa Fe decided that the rights of New Mexicans to protect themselves and their families should be eliminated, Senate Republican Leader Bill Sharer, of Farmington, in a statement after the vote. Listen to the words they say, they have repeatedly admitted this bill is unconstitutional, yet they are forcing it upon law-abiding citizens. Several times during debate, Republicans pointed to the pause the federal Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals issued in December, blocking New Mexicos seven-day waiting period for gun purchases passed last year. Produced water bill tabled in first committee hearing A measure backed by the governor that would expand the uses of oil and gas wastewater beyond the oilfields failed to advance out of its first committee Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement The nearly five-hour hearing before the House Acequias, Agriculture and Water Resources Committee culminated in a close, 5-4 vote to table House Bill 207. The vote fell mostly along party lines, with the exception of Rep. Susan Herra (D-Embudo) who sided with Republicans on the committee attempting to advance the bill. HB207 would require the states Water Quality Control Commission to adopt rules and issue permits by the end of 2026 to enlarge available areas for the byproduct, known in the industry as produced water, oil and gas wastewater can be used. Rep. Cathrynn Brown (R-Carlsbad), the lead sponsor, told members the bill is required to address water scarcity, and that treatments have advanced for the salty and often toxic waste product from oil and gas drilling. Brown said she wanted to ensure the state is not wasting the resource, saying I believe its time to let the science bear fruit. Advertisement Advertisement It was not the science, but the politics of over recent rulemaking that dominated the debate and questions from lawmakers in the hearing. Tension over produced water rulemaking erupted last year after an oil-and-gas industry-aligned group, the Water, Access, Treatment and Reuse Alliance, successfully petitioned the water commission to rewrite adopted rules limiting produced water uses. Numerous environmental groups in turn called for the commission to overturn that decision and disqualify members who they alleged had been compromised by interference from Lujan Grisham. The commission ultimately overturned its controversial decision, while the governors office consistently denied any wrongdoing. Rep. Angelica Rubio (D-Las Cruces) said she was concerned the state was allowing oil and gas to drive the conversation. Its the insistence of an industry that has just so much power in this state and so much influence that we tend to prioritize their ideas over peoples lived realities there is no balance there, Rubio told the sponsors. We need to find that balance because we cant just trust that the regulation will catch up. We cant assume that we can handle the damage later on and that in case something does go wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Other lawmakers noted that the rulemaking process, under the laws deadline, would be condensed. I want the WQCC to go through this process and not be forced to have a rulemaking before we can get all the science in front of them, said Chair Kristina Ortez (D-Taos) just before the vote. Groups who opposed the expansion of water reuse rules celebrated the tabling. The commission determined the technology does not exist to treat this toxic waste to levels safe for people and the environment. HB207 would have forced a new produced water rule on an extremely rushed timeline about half that required for the previous rulemaking, wrote Tannis Fox, senior attorney at the Western Environmental Law Center, in a statement to Source NM. That would have deprived the commission of the rigor needed to write a rule that would keep New Mexicans and our water resources safe. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The ties between disgraced US financier Jeffrey Epstein and Israel are becoming clearer after the release of millions of documents related to the convicted sex offender by the United States Department of Justice, following a years-long campaign. The documents have revealed more details of Epsteins interactions with members of the global elite, including former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. But they also document his funding of Israeli groups, including Friends of the Israeli Defence Forces, and the settler organisation the Jewish National Fund, as well as his ties to members of Israels overseas intelligence services. Ten days since the US Department of Justice last released millions of documents related to Epstein and ten and a half years since his death in US custody details of his interactions with other members of the global elite continue to dominate the worlds headlines. Advertisement Advertisement Heres what we know. Was Epstein a spy for Israel? While the documents provide more evidence for those who believe that Epstein was an Israeli intelligence asset, it is still not something we can say for certain. An FBI memo produced by the bureaus Los Angeles field office in October 2020 reported that one of its sources had come to believe Epstein was a co-opted Mossad agent. According to the document, the disgraced financier was described as having been trained as a spy for Israels intelligence service. The source also claimed Epstein maintained links to US and allied intelligence circles through his longtime lawyer Alan Dershowitz, the Harvard University law professor whose network, it said, included many students from wealthy families. Among those cited were Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trumps son-in-law and envoy, and his brother, Josh Kushner, both described in the memo as former students. Epsteins email correspondence also shows him to have had extensive contact with senior Ehud Barak aide and Israeli military intelligence Yoni Koren, who made regular stays at Epsteins New York residence and whose cancer treatment in 2012, the emails show, Epstein appears to have paid for. Advertisement Advertisement The links to Israel go back much further. Robert Maxwell, a British newspaper tycoon who was the father of Epsteins former girlfriend and co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, was long rumoured to have been linked to Israeli intelligence. Maxwell poured money into the Israeli economy and died in mysterious circumstances after he was said to have fallen from his yacht in 1991, after embezzling millions from his companys pension fund. Epstein himself appeared to have suspected that the Israeli Mossad intelligence agency had a role in Maxwells death. An email Epstein sent in 2018 had the subject line he was passed away, referring to Maxwell. In the message, Epstein claimed that Maxwell had previously threatened Israels intelligence service, writing that unless they [the Mossad] gave him 400 million to save his [Maxwells] crumbling empire, he would expose all he had done for them. Advertisement Advertisement Epstein also alleged that Maxwell had acted as an informal operative, gathering information on the US, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union. Correspondence from Jeffrey Epstein concerning the death of British publishing tycoon Robert Mawell [Screen Grab/Department of Justice] Would Epstein have been of interest to intelligence agencies? As an international financier with strong ties to global elites, as well as potentially compromising information on them, Epstein is the kind of person intelligence agencies would turn to. It is unlikely that Epstein was not approached by the Mossad, said Ahron Bregman, a lecturer at Kings College London, whose relationship with the alleged Egyptian Mossad agent Ashraf Marwan formed the basis of the book and film The Spy Who Fell to Earth. It is like with Ashraf Marwan: even though he was not needed to report on Egypt anymore because there was peace between the two countries, the Mossad renewed contact with him to use him to open doors, Bregman said. Advertisement Advertisement Dershowitz himself a controversial figure who is avowedly pro-Israel has denied the claims, saying of Epstein that No intelligence agency would really trust him. Dershowitz added that if Epstein had been an intelligence operative, he would have informed his lawyer referring to himself. Israels current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also pushed back on claims Epstein was a Mossad agent, writing on Twitter: Jeffrey Epsteins unusually close relationship with Ehud Barak doesnt suggest Epstein worked for Israel. It proves the opposite. Barak has long been one of Netanyahus political opponents. Jeffrey Epstein's unusual close relationship with Ehud Barak doesn't suggest Epstein worked for Israel. It proves the opposite. Stuck on his election loss from over two decades ago, Barak has for years obsessively attempted to undermine Israeli democracy by working with the Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) February 6, 2026 Advertisement Advertisement Other sources, including Christopher Steele, who used to head up the British spy agency MI6s Russia desk, have suggested that it was quite likely that Epstein may have been recruited by Russian organised criminals. Elsewhere, the Polish government has launched an investigation into the late sex offenders links to Russias state intelligence. What do we know about Epsteins relationship with Israel-linked organisations? Through Epsteins COUQ Foundation, he provided Friends of the Israeli Defence Forces (FIDF) and the Jewish National Fund (JNF) with funds on at least one occasion, when he gifted $25,000 to the FIDF and $15,000 to the JNF in 2006. According to the FIDFs website, the organisation funds programmes for Israeli soldiers. Through its website, the organisation invites donors to adopt a brigade or battalion, such as the 97th Netzah Yehuda Battalion, which has been widely accused of killing unarmed civilians, killing detainees, torture, and mistreatment. The JNF has also been accused of historically privileging Jewish citizens to land inside Israel while restricting Palestinians access under the guise of environmentalism. Activists accuse the JNF of contributing to the displacement of Palestinian communities through forestation projects built over depopulated villages. Its alleged support for settlement activity in the occupied West Bank, principally in the settlement cluster of Gush Etzion, has prompted calls in some countries to revoke its charitable status. The organisation has additionally been challenged over environmental practices seen as damaging to local ecosystems. A West Point woman has been arrested on human trafficking and prostitution-related charges after police said they investigated a report of an assault on Friday at a massage business on West 8th Street. According to the West Point Police Department, officers were called shortly after 12:30 p.m. Feb. 6 to Aroma Sauna at 308 W. 8th St., where a man reported being assaulted by three women after refusing sexual services. Police said the man told officers he had gone to the business seeking a massage for an injury when a younger woman told him the price would be $80 for the massage and $200 for additional "services." When he tried to leave, the man said two other women joined her, and they began grabbing him, attempting to take his recording device and wallet. The man told police he recorded part of the incident and fled before calling 911. Advertisement Advertisement Investigators identified the business manager as Moo Sun Lee, who police said denied the allegations but was later taken into custody. Detectives said two younger women who worked at the business came forward voluntarily and described how the establishment operated, telling police that Lee directed their activities and collected a portion of the money customers paid. Police obtained a search warrant for the property and said they seized cellphones and other evidence during the search. Lee has been charged with trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, keeping a place of prostitution, simple battery, obstruction of an officer, pimping, and giving massages at a business used for lewd purposes, according to police. Authorities said the investigation remains active. The Prince and Princess of Wales have said they are "deeply concerned" by the latest revelations about Jeffrey Epstein in their first public statement on the scandal. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said Prince William and Princess Catherine were "focused on the victims" in light of new information contained in documents related to the late sex offender released in the US. The statement was released after more allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor emerged, increasing the scrutiny on the former prince. Advertisement Advertisement A royal spokesperson said: "I can confirm The Prince and Princess have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. "Their thoughts remain focused on the victims." Although the two-line statement from the Prince and Princess of Wales made no direct reference to Epstein, Andrew or his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, who has also faced further questions in light of the latest document release, it remains significant, if not explicit. It was published as Prince William prepared to begin an official visit to Saudi Arabia, a trip which has been viewed as highly significant diplomatically. Advertisement Advertisement He and royal aides are well aware that as headlines around Epstein continue to swirl, so does the scrutiny on the Royal Family's response. In releasing the statement, William will hope that it shows he is concerned and not oblivious to the damaging headlines, as well as clearing the way for focus on his official trip to Saudi Arabia. However, it is unlikely that it will completely shut down questions over the royal's handling of the Andrew scandal. King Charles was heckled during a visit to Clitheroe train station in Lancashire on Monday, with one member of the public shouting, "how long have you known about Andrew and Epstein?" as he greeted a crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Mountbatten-Windsor had a long-running friendship with Epstein and maintained contact with the American financier after his conviction for a child sex offence in 2008. He has previously apologised for his past ties with Epstein but has strenuously denied any wrongdoing. While reports have emerged in recent years that William favours a further cutting of ties with his disgraced uncle, he and other senior royals have largely refrained from commenting on the allegations against him. The King last directly mentioned Epstein's victims in October when he stripped Andrew of his titles, and last week Prince Edward referred to victims when asked about the Epstein fallout at a government conference in Dubai. Advertisement Advertisement Last week saw Mountbatten-Windsor move out of his Windsor home ahead of schedule in light of new information about his relationship with Epstein. Buckingham Palace had said he would leave Royal Lodge in early 2026, but his departure appears to have been sped up, with the former prince now living on the King's privately owned Sandringham Estate. But continued disclosures in the US have increased the pressure on Mountbatten-Windsor, who has faced calls to give evidence to an American inquiry. Included in a massive trove of documents released in the US are images appearing to show Mountbatten-Windsor kneeling on all fours over a woman. Advertisement Advertisement No context is supplied for the photos and it is unclear when and where they were taken. The latest documents also appear to confirm that a notorious picture of Mountbatten-Windsor and his accuser Virginia Giuffre is real. He has previously questioned whether a picture of him with his arm around Guiffre had been doctored and claimed he had never met her. She alleged she was made to have sex with him as a teenager. But in an email apparently written by Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is also in the image, in 2015, she said: "In 2001 I was in London when [redacted] met a number of friends of mine including Prince Andrew. A photograph was taken as I imagine she wanted to show it to friends and family." Andrew was pictured alongside his late accuser Virginia Giuffre and Ghislaine Maxwell, a British socialite now jailed in the US for child sex trafficking [PA Media] He has always denied the claim and reached an out-of-court settlement with Giuffre in 2022. It contained no admission of liability or apology. Advertisement Advertisement Thames Valley Police has confirmed it is assessing allegations reported by the BBC that a second woman says she was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Mountbatten-Windsor. The encounter allegedly occurred at his former Royal Lodge residence in 2010. The woman, who is not British, was in her 20s at the time. Other emails appear to show Mountbatten-Windsor knowingly shared confidential information with Epstein from his official work as a trade envoy in 2010 and 2011. Under official guidance, trade envoys have a duty of confidentiality over sensitive, commercial, or political information about their official visits. Advertisement Advertisement But emails show the former prince passing on reports of visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam, and confidential details of investment opportunities, to Epstein. The Royal Family has sought to distance itself from Andrew, beginning in 2019 when it was announced he would step back from royal duties. Since then, he has lost his titles, military offices and official roles, and has only very occasionally been seen at official events. But there has been continued pressure on the Palace to signal a clean break from Andrew as public anger over his alleged conduct continues. Updated on February 10, 2026: Wether.com's forecast for Bristol Bay Borough, Alaska calls for a 100% chance of ongoing snowfall this morning with more inches accumulating. Stay tuned to local coverage for real-time changes. Over the next several hours, four states will face some truly harsh and destructive winter weather conditions. Residents of the affected areas can expect some extremely powerful winds and heavy snow buildups. How Much Snow Is Expected in the Hardest-Hit Areas A man in a yellow parka shovels snow from a walkway after a snowstorm. (Photo by RyersonClark on Getty Images) Photo by RyersonClark on Getty Images (Photo by RyersonClark on Getty Images) On February 9, 2026, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter storm warning for 10-20 inches of snow in Montana's Cooke City area and the surrounding mountains. Separately, the NWS predicted that between 11 and 17 inches of snow would affect the Northern Bristol Bay Coast and Western Capes areas of Alaska. The high-elevation areas on Hawaii's Big Island could also see 10 to 16 inches. Advertisement Advertisement With so much snow on the way, clearing driveways and walkways matters. However, that is an activity that some people should avoid. A Men's Journal report based on cardiologist advice warns that age isn't the only factor that decides whether someone can safely shovel snow. As the article explains, risk factors like being over 65 years old, diabetes, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can all make shoveling dangerous. Powerful 95 MPH Winds Are Forecasted Vehicles brave the wind and snow on a city street. (Photo credit should read CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images) Photo credit should read CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images (Photo credit should read CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images) On February 9, 2026, the National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for Alaska's Adak and Atka areas. Even though Alaska is known for intense weather conditions, this warning called for brutal southeast wind gusts of between 55 and 95 mph until noon on February 10. Another warning also called for up to 70 mph winds to cover Arlington, Bordeaux, and Elk Mountain in Wyoming. The previously described Montana and Hawaii snow warnings also include predictions for strong winds. Gusts reaching 50 mph are expected near Montana's Cooke City, and up to 60 mph winds will strike in Hawaii's high-elevation zones. These warnings highlight serious winter conditions that are expected to affect Montana, Alaska, Hawaii, and Wyoming. For example, the warnings that combine heavy snowfall with extreme winds are expected to create whiteout effects that can make travel very difficult and dangerous. Everyone in the affected areas should take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Feb 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here. A Philadelphia man has been arrested for murder in what the Bucks County District Attorney is calling a case of domestic violence in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania. Yujun Ren, 32, is being charged with criminal homicide, possession of an instrument of crime, and stalking. Yujun Ren Bristol Township police say he arrived with his attorney to turn himself in around 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. Police say Ren led them to a home on the unit block of Outlook Lane in Levittown, where they found a woman with a gunshot wound to the head sitting in the driver's seat of a car. Advertisement Advertisement The victim was pronounced dead on the scene. She has been identified as Yuan Yuan Lu. Yuan Yuan Lu "We're still processing a lot of it. It still doesn't feel real," said Lu's cousin, Natalie Truong. "All we know is that there was some kind of domestic relationship," said Sgt. Jason Mancuso with the Bristol Township Police Department. "We believe the couple resided in Philadelphia, and at some point, the relationship had taken a turn for the worst and the victim had come back to her residence in Bucks County." In a statement, Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan said their investigation revealed a "chilling course of conduct." Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on Saturday night, just hours before she was killed, Lu went to Philadelphia police to report the sexual assault. Truong said Lu confided in her about the abusive relationship last week and she convinced Lu to file a report. "All she wanted to do was leave. Just to leave him," Truong said, adding that they dated for nearly a year. Court documents reference a recorded interview where she told detectives Ren sexually assaulted her earlier that day at his South Philly home. She stated she decided to end the relationship, packed her belongings, and blocked him. She also mentioned she was afraid of him, and he carried a gun everywhere. Advertisement Advertisement Evidence shows Ren began stalking her vehicle early Sunday morning before fatally shooting her. In Ring camera video captured around 5:45 a.m., you can see the victim driving by. Trailing behind her is the car police described as the suspect's. Then, around 12:30 p.m., detectives found Lu shot to death in her car. "It's tragic. She was trying to get out. She was trying to do the right thing," neighbor Dan Bogan said. According to court documents, Ren told police he was standing outside of her car door when Lu "said hurtful things and took their cats and dogs, so he took a gun out of his waistband to scare her and the gun discharged." Advertisement Advertisement Ren was arraigned Sunday night and denied bail. Truong hopes her kind cousin who always saw the good in people gets the justice she deserves. "I want them to remember her as a really happy, strong girl. I don't want them to see her as a victim because she wouldn't want to be seen like that," she said. Another neighbor, Kelly Wallin, remembered Lu as warm and kind. "She always said 'Hi. Good morning. Your children are beautiful. Have a good day.' Very sweet," Wallin said. Lu's family is raising money for funeral expenses and to help bring relatives from China to the area. If you need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799- SAFE (7233) or visit TheHotline.org. You can also text with someone by texting START to 88788. A woman's body was found wrapped in material on the side of a road in west Phoenix on Feb. 6, officials said. Police officers found an object that appeared to be a body at about 10:49 p.m. near 55th Avenue and Broadway Road, according to a Phoenix police news release. Officers could not initially determine what the object was, noting it was wrapped in large amounts of material, the release stated. Out of an abundance of caution, detectives began gathering evidence in the area, police said. Advertisement Advertisement After several hours, the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner took custody of the wrapped remains. The person was identified as 24-year-old Jioenise Summerfield, and detectives are investigating her death as a homicide. Police did not release any other details about Summerfield or her death, citing an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about the case can contact Silent Witness and leave an anonymous tip at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (480-837-8446). Callers may be eligible for a reward. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Woman's body found on Phoenix roadside wrapped in material The world has entered a dangerous era of "wrecking-ball politics" that prioritizes the dismantling of institutions over gradual reform, a report from the Munich Security Conference suggests before its annual meeting this week. The MSC will bring together about 65 world leaders, along with nearly 100 foreign and defence ministers, top military brass and high-level policymakers for three days of discussions starting on Friday. Among the most prominent guests expected in Munich is US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also set to take part. Friedrich Merz will make his debut at the conference as German chancellor. Advertisement Advertisement This year's gathering will focus on the breakdown of diplomatic norms and decades-old alliances. The 2026 Munich Security Report, released on Monday and which sets out the conference themes, places much of the blame on US President Donald Trump, who is described as taking "the axe to existing rules" and engaging in "bulldozer politics." But Trump is only the most powerful manifestation of a wider phenomenon seen across multiple countries. "In many Western societies, political forces favouring destruction over reform are gaining momentum," a team of experts behind the report titled "Under Destruction" write. Advertisement Advertisement Establishment decision-makers are increasingly viewed not as leaders, but as "guardians of the status quo" and administrators of a paralysed political system that no longer responds to the needs of the majority. The report says countries still committed to a rules-based order are beginning to organize and pursue approaches that do not depend on Washington. It warns that those who remain bystanders risk ending up "at the mercy of great power politics." To avoid that, governments will need to "step up" by investing more in their own capabilities and cooperating more closely, while also showing voters that meaningful reforms can deliver better results than "a policy of widespread destruction." NEW YORK Its not easy being a Republican in New York. Itll be even harder this midterm election year. Across the deep blue state, the GOP is being outraised and outpolled in key races. The reality is familiar enough for the perpetual underdogs they havent won a statewide contest in more than 20 years. But their woes are compounded now by President Donald Trumps abysmal favorability, prodigious fundraiser Rep. Elise Stefanik exiting office and a dearth of competitive candidates. The state GOP faithful are kicking off their nominating convention today on battleground Long Island. Nassau County is home to gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, whos lagging Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul nearly 2 to 1 in polling. The confab is also in the district of one of the countrys most vulnerable House Democrats Rep. Laura Gillen against whom, puzzlingly, Republicans have yet to put up a viable challenger. Advertisement Advertisement That race and several other New York swing districts will be crucial in determining control of the House and the fate of Trumps final two years in the White House. New York Republicans misery is fueling Democratic elation. Its bleak, said Jay Jacobs, the state Democratic Party chair who doubles as leader of the Nassau County Democrats. Right now, theyre in a bad political environment with the polling numbers for President Trump, who Bruce Blakeman has tied himself to as tightly as you can. Blakeman, the recently reelected Nassau County executive, is the rare Trump loyalist who has won where Democratic voters outnumber Republican ones. But hes also a MAGA Republican running while public opinion shifts against Trumps shock-and-awe immigration tactics in blue cities, tariffs exacerbate cost-of-living concerns and the future of Obamacare subsidies remain uncertain in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Some New York Republicans appear to be cutting their losses or quitting politics all together. GOP challengers to Attorney General Letitia James and upstate Democratic Rep. John Mannion abandoned their campaigns last month. Stefanik bowed out of the race for governor and decided against running for reelection, leaving the state party without its brightest star and a figurehead who brought in millions for Republican candidates. The New York GOP hopes Blakeman can drive up the vote in suburban stretches around the state, but the map is looking less competitive for Republicans this cycle. The GOP took a drubbing across the state in Novembers local contests and lost a bellwether special election for state Senate in western New York last week. The number of House battlegrounds has shrunk to four from seven in 2024. Of the four, GOP Rep. Mike Lawlers race was downgraded to a toss-up, Democratic Rep. Josh Riley has 12 times more cash on hand than his challenger, Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzis main rival launched only just last week, and the former member of Congress whod likely be Gillens toughest competition hasnt yet decided if hes running. New Yorks beleaguered Republicans have had glimmers of hope over the years. Four years ago, another Republican Long Islander, Lee Zeldin, came within 6 points of defeating Hochul. Its far too early to lose hope, they say. Advertisement Advertisement Election Day is nine months away, and thats a lifetime in politics, New York Republican State Committee spokesperson David Laska said. A midterm election of a presidential year is always challenging for the party in power. Here in New York, were in a very unique circumstance because Democrats have had total control of Albany for eight years now and in that time weve become the most taxed, most regulated, least free state in the country. Blakeman is their ticket to winning statewide office for the first time in a generation as a suburban Republican who won his seat in 2021 and kept it red last year, Laska said. Blakeman has built his reputation through local culture wars like banning trans athletes, rejection of sanctuary policies protecting immigrants in the country illegally and encouraging collaboration with federal immigration officers. The county executive, broad-shouldered and silver-haired, looks the part enough that Trump has lauded him as sent from central casting. As Blakeman campaigns around the Empire State, he stresses his close relationship to Trump while focusing on economic issues that propelled him to office. One of his recent pitches had echoes of Trumps Make America Great Again rallying cry. Advertisement Advertisement New Yorkers need a governor that will make them happy again, Blakeman said at last weeks Conservative Party convention in Albany. That means more money in their pockets and cheaper energy costs, so they can provide things for their family. Blakeman has the benefit of the Nassau County GOP machine, a storied political apparatus with reach across the island and a disdain for neighboring New York City, especially its democratic socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani. Nassau GOP Chair Joe Cairo led a sweep of countywide offices last year, but Democrats flipped two House seats in his backyard in 2024. Suozzi now has a $4.5 million reelection war chest, ready for Trump-endorsed challenger and former state Assemblymember Mike LiPetri. The GOP candidate launched his campaign just last week, hasnt yet reported fundraising and lagged badly in funds last cycle. LiPetri lost to Suozzi by less than 4 points in 2024, despite the cash disadvantage. But this year, he may first have to compete in a primary against Republican Greg Hach, who does not have local party support. Advertisement Advertisement Gillen has $2.2 million cash on hand and is waiting to learn whether former Rep. Anthony DEsposito, confirmed in December as Department of Labor inspector general, will make a comeback bid. While Republicans are busy holding a political convention in my district, Im focused on lowering costs, making health care more affordable and delivering resources to my community, Gillen said in a statement. Andrew Grossman, spokesperson for Battleground New York, a coalition of labor unions and progressive groups, predicted Riley, Suozzi and Gillen will win and Lawler will lose in November as New Yorkers worry about health care and grocery costs. Its no surprise the Republicans cant field good candidates in New York, Grossman said. Advertisement Advertisement Lawler passed up a bid for governor last year and is focused on his very tough reelection contest as six Democrats vie to run against him. Hes battle-tested, both by intense congressional campaigns and raucous town halls in his Hudson Valley district north of New York City. The moderate Republican notes that he outraised all his Democratic rivals combined although only if the math excludes self-funding candidates. The top-raising candidate in New Yorks 17th District is tech company founder and small-town Deputy Mayor Peter Chatzky, who is spending more than $5 million of his own fortune to go up against Lawler. In Lawlers bid for political survival, hes doubling down on his moderate leanings while weaponizing everything at his disposal. He penned an op-ed in The New York Times declaring the countrys immigration system broken and calling for bipartisan solutions, and he bucked his party to back enhanced Obamacare subsidies. Though Trump has all but neutralized Republican attacks on Mamdani by cozying up to him at their Oval Office meeting in November, Lawler still uses the New York City mayor as a cudgel against his challengers, most of whom are keeping mum about the polarizing progressive icon. While Congressman Lawler is building a winning, bipartisan coalition, Democrats are running scared and refusing to answer basic questions, said Ciro Riccardi, Lawlers campaign manager. They wont say whether they [would] accept Zohran Mamdanis endorsement. By Renju Jose Feb 9 (Reuters) - A white supremacist who killed 51 Muslim worshippers at two mosques in New Zealand seven years ago said on Monday that he was irrational when he pleaded guilty, local media reported, as he sought to overturn his conviction in a New Zealand court. Brenton Tarrant, 35, appeared in a court in Wellington via a video link, and gave evidence as he sought to overturn his guilty pleas and face a trial. Advertisement Advertisement Tarrant, an Australian national, opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch in March 2019 during Friday prayers in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealand's history. He used military-style semi-automatic weapons and livestreamed the killings on Facebook with a head-mounted camera. Tarrant initially denied all charges and was preparing to stand trial but entered guilty pleas a year later to 51 charges of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and one charge of committing a terrorist act. Tarrant told the court that harsh prison conditions had deteriorated his mental health while he was awaiting trial, and that he was essentially not fit to plead guilty, according to a report in the New Zealand Herald. "I did not have the mind frame or mental health required to be making informed decisions at that time," Tarrant said. Advertisement Advertisement "I think the issue is, did I really know what I wanted to do or what would be a good idea? No, I didn't actually ... I was making choices, but they were not choices made voluntarily and they were not choices made rationally due to the (prison) conditions." Counsel acting for Tarrant have their names and identities suppressed by order of the Court and could not be reached for comment. A court document showed the Court of Appeal would check if Tarrant was incapable of making rational decisions when he entered his guilty pleas "as a result of the conditions of his imprisonment, which he says were torturous and inhumane". He is serving a life sentence in prison without parole - the first time a New Zealand court imposed a sentence requiring a person to spend the rest of their life in prison. Advertisement Advertisement The appeal hearing is set down for five days, and is expected to finish on Friday. If the appeal court declines to grant the application to vacate the guilty pleas, a hearing later in the year will consider the appeal on his sentence. If the charges are overturned, the case will be sent back to the High Court for Tarrant to stand trial on the charges. Families of some victims assembled at the Wellington court to watch Tarrant give evidence, which lasted for several hours. "It's really annoying because he's trying to play with all of us and this is, it's just a waste of our time and waste of taxpayers money and he just wants to play with us," Rashid Omar, whose son Tariq was killed in the Christchurch shooting, told state broadcaster TVNZ. (Reporting by Renju Jose in Sydney; Editing by Lincoln Feast.) Reach Donald W. Meyers at dmeyers@yakimaherald.com or 509-577-7748. He can also be reached securely at donaldwmeyers.93 on Signal or at donaldwmeyers@protonmail.com. Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Karla Tiul Baltazar, 10, hugs Olga Lucia Herrera, right, after coming off a plane from Denver on Saturday at Spokane International Airport. She was with her father, Arnoldo Tiul Caal. State Rep. Natasha Hill, left, was part of the group who greeted them. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promotes real food at a rally in Harrisburg, Pa., last month. Over the next decade, obesity rates across the nation could surge to close to half of U.S. adults, a new study by University of Washington researchers concludes. Amazon (AMZN) and Google-parent Alphabet (GOOGL) are collectively spending a ton on AI, to say the least. However, according to a top-ranked Citi analyst, theyre doing it with remarkably different financial safety nets, with major implications for their investors. Citi Global Head of Tech and Communications Heath Terry argues that the AI arms race isnt just about who has demand, but also about who can pay for the next big phase without weighing down their balance sheet. Thats exactly where Amazon and Google start to diverge. For perspective, TipRanks indicates that Terry is a 5-star Wall Street analyst. He is among the top analysts tracked, with a 67% success rate, along with an average return of 26.5% on his sharp stock calls. The easy part of AI is over, and the stock market sentiment is reflecting that of late. Google's stock is down 4.5% in the past week, while Amazon's stock has tanked 12% over the same period. Nevertheless, Google is entering this new phase with a far more robust funding engine, flush with substantial free cash flow. Conversely, Amazon finds itself layering AI spending onto an already capex-hungry business, with weaker free cash flow, while making debt a more likely bridge. The takeaway isnt simply which business wins the AI race; the cost of staying competitive is a difference that shows up clearly in their financials. A top analyst says Amazon and Google face diverging financial dynamics, despite operating in the same tech landscape.Photo by Bloomberg on Getty Images Photo by Bloomberg on Getty Images AIs next phase exposes a widening funding gap Terry is arguing that AI spending is shifting from experimentation to full-scale enterprise deployment, and in that, the real test is scaling up without stressing the balance sheet. More Tech Stocks: The next phase has less to do with adding a few GPUs but with building the industrial backbone. That entails constructing data centers, power infrastructure, cooling systems, and networking gear, among other things. Thats exactly where Terry sees the divergence. Google is entering a new phase with a massive internal cash engine, but given the margin-heavy nature of its business, it could fund the expansion with internal resources. Amazon, by contrast, is layering massive AI capex on top of a retail and logistics business thats already consuming a lot of capital. Googles cash engine looks built for the AI capex war Google and Amazon are both in a race to add AI capacity at a relentless pace. However, FY 2025s cash-flow picture shows that both companies are running that race with completely different fuel tanks, and 2026 is likely to only widen that gap. The News in Brief Monday, February 9, 2026 Georgian Dream Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili stated that Georgia's recent legislative changes align with the direction in which the Council of Europe is working to limit foreign influence, and that Tbilisi is prepared to share its experience with other countries."The legislative changes and initiatives that Georgia is implementing are aimed precisely at the direction in which the Council of Europe is thinking and working," Botchorishvili said, adding that Georgia already has "extensive experience" in this area that it can offer to partners.Botchorishvili said that Georgia's approach has drawn criticism but argued that the issue of foreign interference is not unique to Georgia. "Foreign interference and foreign influences are a problem for many countries. This is not new," she said. According to Botchorishvili, what differs is the level of recognition of the problem, noting that Georgia has faced what she described as a "rather harsh attitude" toward its efforts to address it.Botchorishvili added that the authorities would continue to engage with the Council of Europe to explain their position. "We will continue to work within the framework of the Council of Europe so that our experience is understood more correctly than it has been by certain actors so far," she said.Georgia's fifth president, Salome Zourabichvili, said the country cannot survive as an independent state without a university that serves as a center of free and critical thinking, calling Georgian State University a symbol that must be protected.In a video address on February 8, the anniversary of the university's founding, Zourabichvili said the institution has been inseparable from Georgia's struggle for independence since its establishment in 1918."On February 8, 1918, the Georgian State University was founded. This was not just the creation of a university, it was the first step toward independence," she said. "Georgia's state independence begins with two things: the declaration of autocephaly and the founding of the university."Zourabichvili recalled that the university emerged from years of work by the Society for the Spreading of Literacy, which sought to restore Georgian national education after imperial Russification policies. She said the efforts of intellectuals at the time laid the foundation for an institution that remains central to Georgia's future."Without an independent university, without a university that remains a hub of free and critical thinking, the state cannot exist independently," she said. "The state needs free thought and the education of a new generation on free foundations, and the symbol of all this, which we must protect, is the Georgian State University."She added that the university represents the values of a European and independent Georgia, calling its preservation essential for the country's long-term development. This weeks historic $1 trillion rout in U.S. software giants like Microsoft and Salesforce has sent a chill across Silicon Valley and around the world. Speaking with fast-growing AI unicorn founders and top venture investors at Web Summit Qatar, many argued the software "Armageddon" narrative is overblown even as they acknowledge AI valuations look stretched. The founder of the $7 billion agentic AI unicorn Glean, Arvind Jain, said he doesnt think AI will make software-as-a-service obsolete. Google Plans To Spend Big As Ai Race With Rivals Intensifies "I think AI is a really powerful technology that people have to embed," he said, adding that delivering products and services "will all continue," arguing integration is how software services will thrive in the future. Meantime, the $17 billion-valued decacorn Miros founder, Andrey Khusid, said AI "valuations are crazy, and valuations will correct," but in his estimate, valuations will "normalize in the next two years." Read On The Fox Business App Technology investors also believe the AI bubble is deflating. Larry Li, founder of Amino Capital and a member of Forbes annual Midas List, said "its just a matter of time," as he sees the bubble especially for large companies deflating. Apple Sees Biggest Sales Jump In 4 Years, Powered By 'Staggering' Iphone Demand Both investors and founders compared the moment to the dot-com era: most startups will fail, but the ones that survive will be the generational winners of the AI revolution. The prevailing view in Doha is that the boom has been more "responsible" than prior cycles because many companies are generating real revenue even if valuations may still correct. Another point of discussion in Doha was the IPO market, amid reports that AI giants OpenAI and Anthropic are racing to get to market first to scoop up eager investor dollars looking to own a slice of the fastest-growing companies. Khusid said he prefers to stay private, noting the company has been profitable for years, and he believes he can operate more efficiently without outside public-market pressure. Nvidia Ceo Says Ai Boom Will Create 'Six-figure' Construction Jobs Jain said many AI companies also prefer to stay private longer. "Public markets demand predictability," he said but "the market is actually changing so fast." Many of the worlds most valuable AI startups including OpenAI and Anthropic are still not profitable, with reports that OpenAI is set to lose $14 billion this year. That has not deterred investors from pouring billions into the sector. According to Forbes, more than $340 billion in cash chased global startups in 2025 with more than 65% of that capital invested in AI companies. New Delhi: Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal has called for a major push in domestic oil and gas exploration, warning that Indias heavy dependence on energy imports poses a strategic risk in an increasingly uncertain global environment. In a tweet On X (formerly Twitter) Highlighting Indias vulnerability, Agarwal said the country currently imports about 90 percent of its oil and gas needs, making energy independence a critical national priority. With demand for hydrocarbons expected to grow steadily over the next two decades, he stressed the importance of expanding domestic production. According to Agarwal, India has significant untapped resources, estimated at around 300 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent, which he described as far larger than the potential discovered in countries like Guyana. He said the country also has a strong talent pool, noting that roughly 10 percent of global oil and gas industry experts are Indians. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In todays turbulent geopolitics, it is critically important for every large nation to secure energy independence. India is vulnerable because we import 90% of our oil and gas. We are surrounded by sea on three sides which can be blockaded in hostile times. There is no option but Anil Agarwal (@AnilAgarwal_Ved) February 9, 2026 Drawing comparisons with the United States, Agarwal said America successfully reduced its import dependence by opening exploration opportunities to private players and entrepreneurs. He suggested India could follow a similar approach by making exploration more attractive for investors and businesses. Agarwal also highlighted Vedanta Groups contribution to Indias energy sector, stating that Cairn Oil & Gas has produced about 1.3 billion barrels of oil over the years and contributed nearly USD 40 billion to government revenues. He added that domestic production could be achieved at roughly half the cost of imports, making it economically beneficial. However, he pointed out that regulatory challenges continue to discourage investment in exploration. India currently has around 200 active exploration licences, compared with what he believes should be closer to 2,000 to fully unlock the countrys resource potential. Agarwal argued that increasing domestic oil and gas production would not only improve energy security but also create jobs, attract investment, and support long-term economic growth. He called for a stable and supportive policy environment that encourages participation from startups, small entrepreneurs, and private companies. Looking ahead, Agarwal said Vedanta aims to increase its oil and gas production fivefold, while India as a whole should target a tenfold increase in output to meet future demand and support the countrys Viksit Bharat vision. He added that expanding exploration activity across the country potentially involving thousands of drilling rigs could play a key role in helping India move toward energy self-sufficiency. Pariksha pe Charcha 2026 - In a continuation of the nationwide Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the growing aspiration among students to look beyond mere examination results and envision their role in building a Viksit Bharat - a developed India by 2047. Addressing students, teachers and parents during the second episode of the ninth edition of the annual Pariksha Pe Charcha programme, the Prime Minister highlighted how young learners are increasingly thinking about the larger goal of national progress rather than focusing only on board marks. Modi expressed delight that students from Class 10 and 12, along with others across the country, are already imagining ways to contribute to Indias growth trajectory. He emphasised that such forward-thinking reflects maturity and responsibility among the youth. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Prime Minister used simple, relatable examples to link personal discipline with broader societal impact. He highlighted how small everyday actions, such as avoiding food wastage and following traffic rules like stopping at red lights reflect self-control and respect for the community. Modi emphasised that these habits, when practised consistently, can contribute to a more responsible and developed society. He reminded students that while inspiration helps, it is discipline and consistent action that form the core of meaningful achievement. Modi stressed that exams should not be seen as endpoints, but as opportunities to build character and long-term skills. Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 continues to resonate widely, with millions of students, parents and teachers tuning in to the discussions broadcast across national television and digital platforms. The programme is designed to provide practical strategies to reduce academic stress and encourage a balanced approach to learning and life. This years sessions have featured engaging exchanges with students from multiple regions, reinforcing the governments message that exams are part of a larger journey toward personal excellence and national contribution. Earlier in the event, Modi remarked that not having a dream is a crime, urging students to set ambitious goals and back them with effort and discipline. He encouraged them to embrace both academic learning and broader aspirations, reminding them that their visions today will shape Indias destiny tomorrow. New Delhi: India has taken another visible step toward nextgeneration drone warfare with the induction of the BerkutBM attack drone into its military inventory. Built in Belarus, the jetpowered system represents a change in how the country is preparing for future battle scenarios. Recent conflicts have demonstrated the growing battlefield value of singleuse attack drones, especially in missions that demand speed, accuracy and minimal response time from the enemy. The BerkutBM is designed as a highspeed strike platform rather than a surveillance drone. It is powered by a jet engine, which allows it to travel far faster than propellerdriven unmanned systems. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The drone can reach speeds close to Mach 0.34 and is capable of hitting critical targets within minutes of launch. Its operational range stretches to nearly 150 kilometres, enabling it to engage both fixed installations and moving assets located deep across hostile territory. Military planners see its greatest advantage in the narrow reaction window it creates for the adversary. The drones speed reduces the time available for target evacuation or concealment. Air defence systems also face difficulty in activating and locking onto such a fastapproaching threat. This compressed timeline increases the probability of mission success, particularly in precision strike operations. Defence assessments indicate that the drone has been engineered for rapid entry into contested airspace followed by a terminal dive onto the designated target. The strike sequence happens quickly, leaving little scope for interception. Such capabilities have become increasingly relevant in modern warfare, where the side that acts faster often dictates the battle outcome. The technological roots of the BerkutBM show the longstanding defence cooperation between Russia and Belarus. Operational lessons drawn from the Ukraine war played a role in refining this category of drones. Russian forces relied on singleuse attack drones during that war, and jetpowered variants demonstrated enhanced strike effectiveness. Similar systems, including fast attack drones deployed in the conflict zone, reinforced the view that future wars will feature highspeed unmanned strike platforms in prominent roles. For India, the induction carries both tactical and strategic implications. The platform strengthens the countrys ability to conduct timesensitive precision strikes. It supports a broader shift toward networkcentric warfare, where realtime intelligence links directly to rapid attack capability. Defence observers believe such systems could prove decisive in the early phases of a conflict, when disabling key enemy assets quickly can alter the course of engagement. The arrival of the BerkutBM therefore marks more than the addition of a new weapon. It reflects a doctrinal transition within Indias military planning. Speeddriven precision, surprise and standoff strike capacity are becoming central to operational thinking. As unmanned combat technologies continue to evolve, platforms like the BerkutBM are expected to describe how future battles are fought and decided. Bomb threat calls were received at nine schools in Delhi on Monday. Delhi Police, fire teams, and bomb disposal squads are present at the spots. Further investigation is underway. ANI reported, citing Delhi Police, that in South Delhi, these three schools have received bomb threats so far. All the calls were received between 8:30 am and 9 am. #WATCH | Bomb threat calls were received at nine schools in Delhi. Delhi Police, fire teams, and bomb disposal squads are present at the spots. Visuals from Bal Bharti School pic.twitter.com/cQuEKvUgii ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Schools receive bomb threat In South Delhi, three schools received bomb threats. These include Air Force School on Lodhi Road, KR Mangalam School, and The Indian School in Sadiq Nagar. Other schools that received bomb threat emails include Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantt, Cambridge School in Srinivasanpuri, Venkateshwar School in Rohini, Cambridge School in New Friends Colony, CM School in Rohini, DTA School in INA, and Bal Bharati School in Rohini. Chandigarh schools' bomb threat On January 28, bomb threat emails were received at 30 schools across Chandigarh, prompting a swift security response by the police and emergency services. According to Chandigarh Police, the threat emails were sent to 22 private schools and eight government schools. Immediately upon receipt of the information, Anti-Sabotage Teams, Bomb Disposal Squads, local police units, and the Fire Brigade, Ambulance, and PCR teams were rushed to the concerned schools, and a thorough check of the school premises was carried out. After a detailed inspection, no suspicious or explosive material was found, according to ANI, a statement read. "As a precautionary measure, regular deployment of police force will be ensured in and around schools from January 29, 2026 onwards to avoid any untoward incident and to ensure the smooth and safe functioning of educational institutions in UT Chandigarh," the police said in the official statement. In connection with the incident, an FIR was registered at Police Station Sector 17 under Sections 113(3), 351(4), and 62 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 66F of the Information Technology Act. (with ANI inputs) The Indian Air Force's proposal to procure 114 additional Rafale fighter jets is to go before the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India later this month. The French President Emmanuel Macron will visit India for an AI Summit in New Delhi from February 15 to 17. Officials stated the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Minister Rajnath Singh, will meet soon to grant Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the multi-billion-dollar program. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Defence Procurement Board, under the Defence Secretary, already cleared the proposal last month, advancing it toward formal negotiations, stated Hindustan Times. According to the proposal, India plans to buy 18 off-the-shelf Rafales from Dassault Aviation, with the remaining 96 built in India via private sector partnerships. Several will be twin-seaters for training purposes. Following DAC approval, the next steps are commercial negotiations, followed by clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India already operates 36 Rafale jets as part of the Indian Air Forces fleet. Deployed during Operation Sindoor in May 2025 against Pakistan, these aircraft played a pivotal role in strikes on terror and military targets in Pakistan and PoK after the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people in April last year. Also Read: India-France Ramp Up Rafale Deal Talks Amid Air Force Jet Shortage Rafales are armed with advanced systems like the cutting-edge systems, SCALP cruise missiles, Meteor air-to-air missiles, and HAMMER precision-guided bombs, Rafales destroyed enemy terror bases and aircraft during the operation. India and France are intensifying discussions on this deal alongside 26 Rafale-M jets for the Navy under the 'Make in India' initiative. This push addresses critical IAF squadron shortages exacerbated by delays in Tejas Mk1A deliveries. With Macron's visit looming, the timing underscores deepening Franco-Indian defence ties and urgency to modernize amid regional threats. According to sources, India and France are also advancing a major deal for SCALP cruise missiles, integrated with Rafale fighters, following their proven success in Operation Sindoor last year. India and France are set to ink a major deal for a large batch of SCALP cruise missiles, proven effective when the Indian Air Force used them last year in May during Operation Sindoor to obliterate Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist bases inside Pakistan. The Indian Air Force is ordering a significant number of SCALP cruise missiles from France, with discussions underway and a decision expected soon, defence officials told ANI. Indian Air Force Rafale fighter jets launched SCALP missiles alongside BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles during last years Operation Sindoor, completely destroying terrorist headquarters in Pakistan's Muridke and Bahawalpur districts with pinpoint accuracy, officials said. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Indian Air Force will deploy SCALP cruise missiles with its Rafale aircraft fleet. Following their successful use in destroying terrorist headquarters in Pakistan on the night of May 6-7, the Air Force employed them extensively again to strike Pakistan Air Force bases. The Indian Air Force struck 12 major Pakistan Air Force bases during Operation Sindoor, destroying numerous high-value targets, including fighter jets and spy planes on the ground. The IAF is also procuring a large number of Meteor air-to-air missiles for its Rafale fleet. The missile will also integrate into the 26 Rafale Marine fighters ordered for the Indian Navy, slated to arrive over the next three to four years. Buoyed by the Rafale jets' performance in Operation Sindoor amid rising regional threats, the Indian Air Force plans to order another 114 Rafale combat aircraft, a proposal likely to gain Defence Acquisition Council approval in the coming days. The Rafale is poised to become the Indian Air Force's mainstay over the coming years, with its fleet projected to reach around 200 aircraft within the next 10-15 years. This procurement underscores India's drive to bolster standoff strike capabilities against terror and adversarial air forces. Amid tensions with Pakistan and China, enhancing Rafale armaments signals a proactive defence posture. The Franco-Indian pact, including tech transfers, strengthens bilateral ties forged in recent conflicts. According to reports, India ramps up finalisation of Dassault Rafale aircraft amid a shortage of fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force. As per a report by India Today, India and France have intensified talks on the massive Rafale deal for 114 and 26 Rafale-M for the Navy, 'Make in India' jets, as the IAF squadron faces a shortage amid delayed Tejas Mk1A deliveries. The talks are expected to be finalised in the next month during French President Emmanuel Macrons scheduled visit to India. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source India pushes for a government-to-government arrangement to procure 114 Rafale jets as an interim measure under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme. The expected deal comes amid the ongoing fighter jet shortage. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has a current squadron strength of 29, well below the authorised 42-42.5 needed for two-front threats from China and Pakistan. Last year, in February, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh voiced his concern over the ongoing shortage of aircraft. He said, The Indian Air Force needs to add 35 to 40 fighter jets every year to fill the shortage in numbers, according to a report by The Hindu. The situation worsened last year with the retirement of soviet era MIG 21 aircrafts and the palns to phase out Jaguars and Mirage fleets. The MRFA was initiated around 2018 as a revival of the earlier Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition. The MRFA targets modern 4.5 generation aircraft with Make in India manufacturing, over 60% indigenous content via foreign collaboration, estimated at Rs 1.2-2 lakh crore. It emphasises technology transfer, local production with potential partners like Dassault and integration with IAF systems like Rafale infrastructure. As the MRFA program remains stalled by procedural delays and tender complexities, prompting the Indian Air Force (IAF) to push Rafale via the G2G route as an interim fix. IAF squadron shortage intensifies due to the prolonged delays in inducting the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A, which was set to replace the Mig 21 fleet, originally slated to bolster frontline fighter numbers. The Air Force contracted 83 Mk1A jets, with Cabinet Committee on Security approval for 97 more, but deliveries lag due to supply chain bottlenecks, GE F404 engine shortage. The shortage has compelled the Indian Air Force to turn towards interim solutions like the additional rafale prcurement. The reports come amid the US push for Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet and Lockheed Martin's F-21, F-16 variant for India's MRFA program. Also Read: Indias Sky Shield Gets Deadlier: Hero Of Operation Sindoor, S-400 Set For New Deployment Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Greek counterpart Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias on Monday in New Delhi. The two sides signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to enhance defence industrial cooperation and outlined a five-year collaboration roadmap. The declaration underscores India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat-driven indigenous defence manufacturing with Greece's Agenda 2030 modernisation reforms. It provides a framework for joint R&D, co-production, technology transfers, and wider industrial collaboration. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Both leaders discussed regional peace and security issues, recognising growing bilateral defence cooperation and strategic ties. They exchanged a Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for 2026, outlining future engagements between the two nations' armed forces. According to a press release by the Ministry of Defence, the talks highlighted convergence between the two ancient seafaring nations on key maritime issues. Greece announced it will station an International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram. #WATCH | Delhi: In his meeting with Nikolaos Georgios S. Dendias, Minister of National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, "We look forward to hosting PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis to India for AI Impact Summit later this month. Let me also take this pic.twitter.com/0XOtM3eOpm ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2026 During his meeting with Greek Defence Minister Dendias, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh also strongly condemned terrorism. He said, We eagerly await hosting PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis for the AI Impact Summit in India later this month. I thank the Greek government for supporting India's core interests, including the fight against cross-border terrorism. Greece has backed India's permanent UN Security Council membership, our 2028-29 non-permanent candidacy, and strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack while standing in solidarity with us." During the visit, both sides issued a joint statement to promote cooperation in security, defence, economy, India-EU ties, and multilateral forums. Before the meeting, Greek Defence Minister Dendias laid a wreath at the National War Memorial to honour fallen heroes and inspected a tri-service Guard of Honour at Manekshaw Centre. During the visit, the Hellenic delegation toured key defence and industrial sites in Bengaluru, engaging with DPSUs, industry leaders, and startups in New Delhi. The trip reaffirms the India-Greece strategic partnership, rooted in longstanding ties between the nations and their peoples. This engagement underscores India's growing defence and strategic outreach to Europe. Last month, India and the EU signed a Security and Defence Partnership on the sidelines of the 16th India-EU Summit in New Delhi. In a meeting with European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas, Rajnath Singh stated that India's defence industry could play a "meaningful role" in the EU's ReArm initiative, helping the bloc diversify suppliers and bolster its industrial base. The president, himself, did not mention Coupang, instead accusing President Lee Jae-myungs government of not living up to the agreement struck in July. A U.S. official with direct knowledge of White House negotiations denied that the Coupang investigation was a factor in Trumps latest tariff threat. A tentative agreement between the Trump administration and South Korean governments to lower tariffs on both sides, along with a $350 billion investment pledge from the South Korean government, is now at risk of unraveling over Seouls continued efforts to enact new restrictions on big tech platforms, among other issues. Coupangs defenders in the U.S. are fanning the flames. They seem to be successful in gaining traction with U.S. policymakers because, unlike other U.S. companies, they have a laser focus on one issue digital discrimination in one country Korea," said Wendy Cutler, senior vice president of the Asia Society Policy Institute, a Washington-based think tank, and former acting deputy U.S. trade representative during the Obama administration. And now the Trump administration and Republican lawmakers are siding forcefully with Coupang and against the Korean government on matters of digital commerce. The company moved its headquarters to Seattle in 2021, the same year as its splashy IPO on the New York Stock Exchange . In 2023, it hired a former top aide in the Trump White House , Rob Porter, to advise its American and global operations. On the surface, a company with that profile a foreign mega-retailer might stand to face the wrath of a protectionist White House with America First economic policies. Yet for the last half-decade, Coupang has pursued an aggressive strategy to align itself with the United States, at times taking on the South Korean government and even complicating trade talks between Washington and Seoul. The e-commerce company is not known to most Americans. Relatively few people in the United States use Coupang's site. It is best known not as a U.S. tech giant but as the Amazon of Asia the largest online retailer in South Korea. Rep. Adrian Smith , Republican of Nebraska, was indignant. Fed up with the South Korean governments pursuit of strict digital commerce laws, Smith used a January hearing to denounce the country for aggressively targeting U.S. technology leaders. Story Continues "Longstanding issues that the U.S. has been trying to iron out with the Korean government over Coupang are unconnected with our trade deal, which addresses a completely different set of issues [such as] trade barriers and the trade deficit," said the official, who was granted anonymity to share sensitive details of closed-door negotiations. Members of Congress, however, continue to make the connection. On Wednesday, House Judiciary Committee Republicans subpoenaed Coupang as part of an investigation into South Koreas digital policies and potential discrimination against U.S. companies. The targeting of Coupang and the potential prosecution of its American executives serve as a sharp escalation of South Koreas campaign against innovative American-owned companies and directly conflicts with its recent commitment to avoid discriminatory treatment and the creation of unnecessary barriers for U.S. digital service providers, Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust Chair Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.) wrote in a letter to Coupang Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel Harold Rogers. Coupang promptly agreed to comply with the subpoena. In response to questions about its lobbying efforts in the U.S. more generally, Coupang spokesperson Erika Reynoso said in a statement to POLITICO that the company is grateful for partners across the Administration and Congress who are committed to ensuring fair market access for American goods from our sellers in all 50 states. Reynoso added: Our singular focus has always been working to boost US exports by enabling thousands of American producers to sell their goods to tens of millions of new customers in South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and 190 other markets around the world. Founded in 2010 by Kim Beom-seok, a Korean-born U.S. citizen and Harvard University grad, Coupang is now valued at about $37 billion, largely based on its dominant delivery service for goods and fresh food in Korea. Its American identity has been key to its appeal to U.S. policymakers, even before the data breach, as it looked to expand its reach and sale of U.S. goods in the South Korean market. Coupangs disclosure in November of its breach, potentially exposing the personal information of roughly 33 million South Korean users, has turbocharged those efforts. Coupang has framed the Korean governments response as a "lawless whole-of-government attack on an American company, implying it could be the first of many U.S. tech companies to face penalties if Seoul follows through on several digital laws now working their way through its legislature. The White House has made those digital policies a focal point of its recent agreements with trading partners, including Korea. In November, Washington and Seoul formalized a tentative deal reached over the summer that lowered U.S. tariffs on Korean goods in exchange for a $350 billion investment commitment, among other South Korean pledges. According to a fact sheet released by the Trump administration, Korea also committed to ensuring that U.S. companies are not discriminated against and do not face unnecessary barriers in terms of laws and policies concerning digital services, including network usage fees and online platform regulations. But, top U.S. officials complain, Seoul is not living up to that or other parts of their agreement. They've "introduced new laws on digital services," U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said in a Jan. 27 interview on Fox Business Network. "They haven't done what they needed to do on agriculture and industry. And so it's hard to continue to hold up our end of the bargain, while they have not moved forward swiftly enough on their end." Greers office also canceled an annual closed-door meeting with South Korean trade officials that had been scheduled for December in response to Seoul's pursuit of digital proposals that the Trump administration views as discriminatory, three people briefed on the plans said at the time. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative declined to comment. The South Korean government denied a link, but the move also came just days after a contentious National Assembly hearing on Coupangs data breach, where South Korean officials sharply criticized the absence of key witnesses. The government also denies it is treating Coupang more harshly because it is based in the U.S. There is no way that American companies will be targeted unfairly, and there is no way that American companies will be discriminated against compared to domestic or other foreign companies, South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo told POLITICO in an interview Jan. 14, during a trip to Washington to try and resolve U.S. concerns about his governments digital policies. He was dispatched to Washington again last week to address Trumps Jan. 27 post threatening to hike tariffs. Yeo suggested his governments response to the breach has been appropriate given the seriousness of the disclosures. The scope of this data breach is not just names, addresses or mobile phone numbers, but also apartment entrance pass-key passwords. So this is directly related to the safety and privacy of every individual citizen. Coupang has sharply refuted those claims, saying the breach did not expose apartment access codes, since the company only provides delivery workers with codes to shared spaces, such as building gates. It added in a fact sheet that the leak of low-grade identification such as names, addresses and phone numbers is not enough to create a material risk of harm. Indeed, that type of information is broadly in the public domain. However, Georgetown University law and technology professor Anupam Chander said the South Korean governments response to the breach strikes me as consistent with the level of public and governmental response in earlier debacles. As for Coupangs claims that the South Korean government is attacking it because it is a foreign company, Chander said, Theres something interesting in trying to figure out whether Coupang is an American company or a Korean company. Coupang has spent the last several years establishing a footprint in the U.S. to claim the former. And its made a particular effort to woo MAGA-aligned officials. Its first lobbying hire, according to its government disclosures: Alex Wong, a former deputy assistant secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific affairs during the first Trump administration who served, before that, as foreign policy adviser and general counsel to Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.). In 2019, it added former Federal Reserve Board member Kevin Warsh, whom Trump just nominated to be the next Fed Chair, to its board of directors. After first registering to lobby in 2021, Coupangs lobbying spending surged to $3.3 million in 2024, more than double the previous two years, public records show. The same year, the company donated $1 million to Trumps inaugural committee securing a seat for Kim, the companys founder and chair, to attend last years swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol. Coupangs corporate PAC, formed in 2024, donated $100,000 to the Kennedy Center in June as part of a Trump effort to revamp the cultural center in his own image. It also contributed $198,978 to Democratic and Republican lawmakers and campaign committees in 2025 including $15,000 to Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.), the chair of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, which handles trade issues in Congress. It's a full court press, said one person who provided consultation services for the company, and was granted anonymity to speak candidly. They're very aggressive. They pursue every avenue through which they can influence the conversation in D.C. During the Biden administration, the company announced a first of its kind partnership with the International Trade Administration, an arm of the Commerce Department that promotes U.S. exports, aimed at supporting American businesses looking to enter the South Korean market. After Trump was reelected in 2024, Coupang began shifting its investments on K Street. In January 2025, it dumped Putala Strategies, which had connections with former President Joe Biden, and brought on two new lobbying firms: Miller Strategies, which has staff with ties to Judiciary Committee Chair Jordan and former Vice President Mike Pence; and Continental Strategies, which has ties to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. They added a third group, Monumental Strategies, in June, and terminated their contract with another major Washington lobbying firm, Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, in late January. Those are in addition to Coupangs three in-house lobbyists. In total, Coupang spent $2.27 million on lobbying in 2025. It has also aligned itself with American tech industry lobby groups, joining the Computer & Communications Industry Association, and serving on the board of the National Foreign Trade Council a pro-free trade group whose members include Walmart, Visa and Ford Motor Co. Its also a member of the U.S.-Korea Business Council, an arm of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. And Coupang has benefited from the megaphone of much bigger tech players. Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of the software company Palantir and a longtime ally of Trump backer Peter Thiel, cheered litigation filed by Coupangs American investors accusing the Korean government of mistreatment and asking USTR to open an investigation. In a Jan. 22 post on X, Lonsdale wrote that S Koreas government is making a huge mistake following in Chinas footsteps and illegally harassing a US company. In the wake of Trumps pledge to hike tariffs late last month, South Korean officials are now scrambling to salvage their trade agreement and keep their 15 percent tariff rate, in line with other regional trade competitors like Japan. Seoul has repeatedly dispatched senior economic officials to Washington while the countrys ruling party has pledged to speed up legislation to implement its pledged investment. But Seoul shows no signs of backing off its investigation of Coupang. South Korean police on Friday questioned Rogers, Coupangs general counsel, as part of the ongoing probe into the companys data breach, which could expose the company to fines or additional enforcement measures, including on allegations he gave false testimony under oath, according to the Korean Yonhap News Agency. A trade lawyer with close administration ties, granted anonymity to speak candidly, said companies should pay attention to how the federal government responds to South Koreas treatment of the company. If the U.S. government shapes its response to a foreign government in part based on how a specific company with U.S. ties is treated, then failing to engage effectively in D.C. is going to become a new form of C-suite malpractice, the lawyer said. CORRECTION: The story has been updated to correct the year that Coupang moved its headquarters to Seattle. New Delhi: India successfully test-fired the Agni-3 intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on February 7. Conducted under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command, the test strengthened Indias strategic and defense capabilities. Officials confirmed that the missile met all operational and technical parameters. The test evaluated its readiness, flight stability, navigation, guidance and strike accuracy. The Agni-3 is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile capable of covering distances of 3,000 to 3,500 kilometers. It is equipped to carry nuclear warheads and advanced guidance systems, allowing precise targeting. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source During the trial, the missile successfully hit its designated target, demonstrating its reliability and operational effectiveness. The Agni series forms a core part of Indias indigenous missile development programme led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This series ranges from Agni-1 to Agni-5, which are designed to meet diverse strategic requirements. Agni-1 has a range of 700 kilometres, Agni-2 covers 2,000 kilometres, Agni-3 reaches 3,000 kilometres, Agni-4 extends to 4,000 kilometres and Agni-5 can strike targets up to 5,000 kilometres away. The shorter-range Agni-1 can engage targets starting from 220 kilometres, complementing other missiles in the series designed for targets between 150 and 350 kilometres. Defense experts believe the successful test of Agni-3 strengthens Indias strategic posture and deterrence capability. Combined with strategic cruise missiles like BrahMos, the Agni series allows India to effectively cover targets across a wide range of distances, from 30 kilometres to 5,000 kilometres. BrahMos handles short-range precision strikes from 30 to 300 kilometres, while the Agni series addresses longer-range strategic targets. The test highlights Indias commitment to maintaining credible nuclear deterrence while advancing indigenous missile technology and strengthening its overall defense preparedness. Senior NCP-SCP leader Sharad Pawar was transferred from Baramati to Pune's Ruby Hall Clinic on Monday after his condition worsened, his office stated. #WATCH | Maharashtra: NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar brought to Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital in Pune from Baramati after his health deteriorated. His office says that he has some complaints of cough and difficulties in breathing. pic.twitter.com/SPBTGivnBo February 9, 2026 Doctors recommended the move due to a cough and breathing difficulties. He remains under close medical observation. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Ruby Hall Clinic's Chief Cardiologist and Managing Trustee, Dr. Parvez Grant, confirmed the update. He said a medical team would examine Sharad Pawar upon arrival and decide on the next steps based on their assessment. Pawar, an oral cancer survivor, was diagnosed in the late 1990s and underwent multiple surgeries in India and the US. Sharad Pawar, an oral cancer survivor, was diagnosed in the late 1990s. He underwent several surgeries in India and the US for treatment. Six years ago, as Cyclone Diane hammered Madagascar in January 2020, the island was left reeling. Days of torrential rain overwhelmed rivers, entire settlements vanished under flash floods, and landslides cut off access to communities already living on the margins. With more than 10,000 homes inundated, 31 lives lost, and nearly 92,000 people affected, President Andry Rajoelina declared a national emergency and reached out to the world for immediate assistance. India moved first. And fast. The Indian Navy diverted INS Airavatalready on mission deployment in the Southern Indian Oceanto Antsiranana. Its arrival marked the beginning of Operation Vanilla, a mission that would become one of the clearest expressions of Indias evolving SAGAR doctrine: Security and Growth for All in the Region. What began as humanitarian aid in a moment of crisis has, over six years, become a template for an expanding IndoMalagasy partnership anchored in trust, maritime cooperation, and an increasingly shared sense of regional security. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source A Crisis Response That Recast a Relationship When INS Airavat reached Madagascars northern shores, it carried not only disaster relief stores but a message that India was prepared to act as a dependable first responder in the Western Indian Ocean. Indian medical teams treated the injured in makeshift camps, naval personnel distributed tents, blankets, clothing and medicines, and coordination with local authorities began within hours. A year later, India reinforced that commitment. In March 2021, INS Shardul arrived with 600 tonnes of rice, the largest ever humanitarian consignment carried by an Indian warship, loaded and dispatched in record time. For Madagascar, the aid was crucial. For India, it was a strategic demonstration of capability, responsibility and reach. SAGAR in Action: India Steps Up as a Maritime Partner Operation Vanilla became the operational face of Indias SAGAR vision. The doctrine, announced in 2015, emphasises cooperative, inclusive security across the Indian Ocean, especially with island nations often vulnerable to climate shocks and maritime threats. Madagascars geographic locationstretching over 587,000 sq km and guarding the western edge of the Indian Oceans shipping lanesmade it a natural partner. The months following Operation Vanilla witnessed an acceleration in defence diplomacy--in February 2020, Madagascars Minister of National Defence visited India for the first time, attending DefExpo and the IndiaAfrica Defence Ministers Conclave. In March 2021, INS Shardul and Malagasy Naval Ship Trozona undertook the first joint patrol of Madagascars Exclusive Economic Zone, a milestone in maritime cooperation. A PASSEX exercise in Antsiranana sharpened communication and operational familiarity between the two navies. Training soon became a major pillar. A five-member Indian Navy Mobile Training Team spent 14 days training 50 Malagasy Special Forces personnel in military tactics, coastal security, and counterterror operations. Port Calls, Practical Cooperation, and a Regional Footprint Indian ships have maintained a steady presence across Madagascars ports. Indian vessels continued to make their presence felt along Madagascars coastline in the years that followed. In early 2023, a training squadron led by INS Tir, accompanied by the Coast Guard ship Sarathi, made a stop at Antsiranana, engaging local authorities and sharing best practices during their extended deployment in the Indian Ocean. A few months later, INS Trishul sailed into the eastern port of Toamasina, where its crew joined local communities in marking the International Day of Yogaan event that blended diplomacy with public outreach. Before the year closed, another Indian ship, INS Sumedha, dropped anchor once again at Antsiranana. Its visit featured a maritime partnership drill with the Malagasy Navy, reflecting the growing comfort between the two forces at sea. By the time Madagascar took part in the first Africa India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME) exercise in April 2025co-hosted by India and Tanzaniait was clear that the India had become an active contributor to wider regional maritime cooperation. Politics Catch Up With the Pace at Sea The goodwill generated at sea translated into political momentum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Andry Rajoelina in Dubai in February 2024, a meeting that took stock of what had become one of Indias most steadily expanding African partnerships. In February 2025, Madagascars Minister of Armed Forces, including the chiefs of its navy and air force, attended Aero India in Bengaluru, holding detailed discussions on training, maritime surveillance as well as hydrography. In June 2025, during Madagascars Independence Day celebrations, India joined the celebrations through the presence of Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, reaffirming New Delhis long-term stake in regional stability. Six years on, Operation Vanilla has shown that Indias naval diplomacy does more than respond swiftly in times of crisis. It also positions India as a reliable strategic partner actively shaping security in the Western Indian Ocean. And most importantly, it affirmed that SAGAR is not a slogan but a workable, operational modelone that begins with empathy in disaster, evolves through cooperation at sea, and matures into a stable, long-term partnership. Opposition to move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday. Meanwhile, the House continued to see repeated disruptions by the Opposition benches as they demanded a discussion on the India-US trade framework in Parliament. For the second time today, Parliament saw less than 10 minutes of the session, and no discussion took place before being adjourned. ANI reported that the Opposition MPs are planning to move a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla in the second half of the budget session, as a 20-day notice period is needed for such a motion. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The MPs have cited that the Speaker has unjustly suspended 8 of their MPs, is not allowing the Leader of Opposition to speak, and preferential treatment is being given to treasury bench MPs, ANI further reported, citing sources. "The grounds identified for the move include: Lok Sabha LoP not allowed to speak; women MPs named by the Chair; certain Treasury Bench MPs always given Privilege in the House; and the Way 8 opposition MPs were suspended for the whole session," sources said. On the Opposition to move a no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said, "We come here to raise issues regarding our constituencies in the House. There are no issues that the government doesn't debate. The House always functions according to the rules. The Speaker's ruling is final when he says that a member cannot quote from a book. Congress is not able to digest the fact that they have been out of power for the last 11 years, andthe public has been continuously rejecting them." Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav said," Whatever decision the senior leaders of the INDIA alliance take, all Opposition parties will stick to it." Lok Sabha proceedings saw no legislative business happen on Monday as Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House till 12 noon amid Opposition sloganeering demanding a discussion on the India-US interim trade framework, disrupting question hour since the commencement of the house session at 11 am. (with ANI inputs) More than seven decades after Partition, Pakistan has still not offered a formal apology for the systematic violence inflicted on Bengalisfrom 1947 through the 1971 Liberation War. Despite overwhelming evidence of mass killings, rape and economic exploitation, official Pakistan has chosen denial and silence over responsibility. From the moment East Bengal became East Pakistan, it was treated less like an equal province and more like a colony. Linguistic repression, economic discrimination, political exclusion and finally, genocide marked this relationship. Even today, as Bangladesh under interim leader Muhammad Yunus explores warmer ties with Islamabad after Sheikh Hasinas ouster in 2024, one thing remains unchanged: Pakistan has offered no apology, no reparations, and no acknowledgment of guilt for the horrors of 1971. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Partitions Broken Promise (19471952) When Pakistan was created in 1947, East Bengal made up 54 percent of the countrys population. Yet power rested firmly in West Pakistan, dominated by Punjabi elites. The first betrayal came quickly. Urdu was declared the sole national language, sidelining Bengali, spoken by the majority. This sparked the 1952 Language Movement. On February 21, Pakistani police opened fire on unarmed students in Dhaka demanding linguistic rights. Several students were killed and hundreds were injured. It was an early warning of how dissent in East Pakistan would be handledwith bullets, not dialogue. Economic discrimination followed the same pattern. East Pakistan earned most of the countrys foreign exchange through jute exportsaround 70 percentbut received barely a quarter of national development funds. By the late 1950s, per capita income in the East was about 40 percent lower than in the West. Bengals resources were used to build infrastructure in Karachi while millions in the east remained poor and hungry. Pakistan has never apologized for these early crimes. Democracy Denied (19661971) By the mid-1960s, frustration boiled over. Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans Six-Point demand for autonomy in 1966 was branded treason. The military regime responded with arrests instead of reform. The breaking point came after Pakistans first general election in 1970. Mujibs Awami League won an overwhelming mandate167 of 169 seats in East Pakistanenough to form the national government. By any democratic standard, Mujib should have become prime minister. Instead, the military ruler Yahya Khan and West Pakistani politician Zulfikar Ali Bhutto blocked the transfer of power. Talks dragged on while troops poured into East Pakistan. By March 1971, around 93,000 Pakistani soldiers were stationed there. The Bengali vote was ignored. The door to peaceful resolution was slammed shut. Operation Searchlight: March 25, 1971 On the night of March 25, 1971, Pakistan launched Operation Searchlighta planned military assault to crush Bengali resistance. Dhaka was the first target. Pakistani troops stormed Dhaka University, police barracks, and Hindu neighborhoods. Students were shot in their dorms. Professors were dragged from their homes and executed. Jagannath Hall saw Hindu students massacred in their sleep. By morning, large parts of Old Dhaka were burning. Thousands were killed in a single night. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was arrested shortly after declaring independence and flown to West Pakistan. The genocide had begun. A Nine-Month Campaign of Terror What followed was one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century. Over the next nine months, Pakistani forcesassisted by local collaborators like the Razakars, Al-Badr, and Al-Shamscarried out systematic killings across Bengal. Villages were surrounded. Men were lined up and shot. Hindus and intellectuals were targeted. Estimates of deaths range from 300,000 to 3 million; Bangladesh officially recognizes 3 million martyrs. More than 10 million people fled to India as refugees. Rape was used as a weapon of war. Between 200,000 and 400,000 women were sexually assaulted, and many were held in rape camps. Thousands of children were born from these assaults. The survivors, later honored as Birangonas, were often shunned by society. International reportsincluding the suppressed Hamoodur Rahman Commission and the famous Blood Telegram sent by U.S. diplomat Archer Bloodconfirmed the scale of the crimes. Yet Pakistan denied genocide then and continues to do so today. After Independence: Regret Without Responsibility Bangladesh won independence on December 16, 1971, with Indias decisive support. But Pakistan quickly moved to limit the damage to its reputation. The 1972 Simla Agreement focused only on POWs and territory. There was no apology. In 1974, Sheikh Mujib again demanded recognition of genocide and $4.5 billion in Bangladeshs rightful share of assets. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto offered only a vague statement of regret. It was not an apology. Later governments in Bangladesh softened their stance for diplomatic reasons, but the wound never healed. Hasinas Pushand Yunuss Pivot Under Sheikh Hasina, demands for justice returned strongly. Bangladesh officially recognized March 25 as Genocide Day, pursued war crimes trials against collaborators, and repeatedly pressed Pakistan for an apology and reparations. Relations remained tense. After Hasinas ouster in August 2024, interim leader Muhammad Yunus sought a reset. Trade talks resumed. Direct flights restarted. Pakistani officials visited Dhaka. But once again, when Bangladesh raised the issue of a formal apology, Pakistan refused. As of February 2026, nothing has changed. An Unfinished Moral Debt Bangladesh has extended goodwill, trade access, flights, and diplomatic engagement. Pakistan has accepted the benefits but continues to avoid accountability. Three million dead. Hundreds of thousands raped. Billions in stolen assets. And still, no apology. Until Pakistan confronts the truth of 1971 and formally acknowledges its crimes, reconciliation will remain hollow. March 25 will continue to stand as a remindernot just of genocide, but of a refusal to repent. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed Seychelles as a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave, stressing that defence cooperation and maritime security remain central to the growing partnership between the two countries. He also said India and Seychelles would step up collaboration in renewable energy, climate resilience and adaptive solutions. The Prime Minister made these remarks during a joint press conference with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie in the national capital. Referring to the two nations as maritime neighbours, Modi said the blue economy was a natural area of cooperation and announced that India would share its expertise in marine research and capacity building with Seychelles. In areas such as marine research, capacity building and data sharing, India will extend its experience to Seychelles. Defence cooperation and maritime security are key pillars of our partnership, Modi said. Welcoming Seychelles into the Colombo Security Conclave as a full-time member, he noted that the move would strengthen collective efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region. Together, we are shaping not only bilateral cooperation but also a shared future for the Indian Ocean, he added. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Prime Minister also highlighted plans to expand cooperation in renewable energy, climate resilience and climate-adaptive technologies. He welcomed the signing of several memoranda of understanding and agreements between the two sides, describing them as steps that would further deepen ties between the maritime neighbours. Modi announced that an IndiaSeychelles Joint Vision would be launched the same day to serve as a roadmap for future cooperation. Pointing to rapid digital transformation, Modi said India would share its successful digital initiatives with Seychelles. He added that both countries would work together to ensure access to affordable and quality medicines, promote medical tourism and strengthen health infrastructure. He also acknowledged the contribution of the Indian community in Seychelles, saying it had played a significant role in the island nations social and economic life while reinforcing bilateral ties over generations. Through close cooperation in technology, we are giving our partnership a forward-looking direction, he said. Earlier, Modi announced a special economic package of USD 175 million for Seychelles to support projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, healthcare, defence and maritime security. He said development partnership had long been the backbone of IndiaSeychelles relations and that the assistance was aligned with Seychelles priorities and needs. India and Seychelles also exchanged multiple agreements and MoUs covering areas such as pharmacopoeial cooperation, cultural exchange programmes for 20262030, large-scale digital solutions for transformation, and food procurement between the National Cooperative Exports Limited and the Seychelles Trading Corporation. Before the joint press meet, the two leaders held bilateral talks. President Herminie also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The Ministry of External Affairs later said Gandhis ideals continue to guide and inspire the IndiaSeychelles partnership. President Herminie arrived in New Delhi on Sunday after engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his state visit. This is his first visit to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the marking of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. (with ANI inputs) The Union Government on Monday orally informed the Supreme Court that detained climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is in a "perfectly good" condition and is getting the best of the treatment in AIIMS Jodhpur while being in custody. The top court was hearing a habeas corpus petition, filed by Wangchuk's wife and social entrepreneur, Dr Gitanjali Angmo seeking a declaration that detention of her husband under the National Security Act, 1980, as "illegal." Bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice PB Varale was hearing the matter. Meanwhile, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) KM Nataraj has appeared for the Union government. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Justice Aravind Kumar asked Additional Solicitor General, whether any progress had been made on the benchs request to review the Wangchuk's detention given his deteriorating health. "What happened? Any progress? Has it been done?" Justice Kumar asked Nataraj. ASG Nataraj responded, "I will submit... Nothing has been done as of now. He is getting the best of treatment." One of the counsels appearing for the Wangchuk said that it is "high time" they should be reconsidering his detention as he continues to remain unwell. "There are issues, and its not like you are not denying it, and he is also making a complaint of health issues. The doctor says yes, it is there, and now treatment is being provided. Admittedly, the health issue is there, and last day itself we made [the request]," Justice Varale to ASG. ASG Nataraj replied, "So far, the health issue is concerned, rather than being in Ladakh, Jaipur is the best place. There is AIIMS in Rajasthan, whereas in Ladakh, there would have been nothing." The bench scheduled the next hearing on Wednesday, saying, no further adjournment will be granted in the case. Wangchuk has been imprisoned in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, since September last year in connection with his alleged involvement in the deadly pro-statehood protests in Ladakh. He was detained under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), which allows for preventive detention without formal charges or trial for a period of up to 12 months. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended a reception hosted by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the envoy's residence in New Delhi on Monday. The meeting follows last week's announcement of a framework for an India-US interim trade agreement, highlighting shared interests and deepening bilateral ties. During the reception hosted at his residence, US envoy Sergio Gor said, The White House is paying attention to India, our President is paying attention to India. Thanks to the friendship that President Trump has with PM Modi, we were able to get the trade deal. Highlighting White House's focus on India amid a new interim trade framework. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source India cuts tariffs on US goods, and the US imposes 18% on select Indian exports. Ties build on the Trump-Modi BTA launch, Gor's recent credentials, and Jaishankar's optimism for a stronger partnership. The US and India unveiled this framework for a reciprocal, mutually beneficial interim trade deal, reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) launched by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. Under the framework, India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide array of agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine, spirits, and more. In return, the US will apply an 18% reciprocal tariff on select Indian exports such as textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, plastics, rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal goods, and certain machinery. Upon successful finalization, the US has pledged to lift these tariffs on key Indian items like generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts. Ambassador Gor presented his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 14, becoming the 27th US envoy to India. Last month, Jaishankar met Gor and expressed optimism about stronger bilateral ties under the ambassador's leadership. (with ANI inputs) Beyond popular tourist circuits lie landscapes so surreal they feel almost unreal- shaped by time, nature, and years of history. From ancient wonders to natural marvels, these places challenge everything you expect to see. Also read- India's must-visit hill stations: From Uttarakhand to Tamil Nadu - Plan your next trip | Check 7 destinations Check places here: Add Zee News as a Preferred Source 1- Barabar Caves, Bihar Barabar Caves are situated in the hilly area near Makhdumpur, 25 kilometers south of Jehanabad. Planning ahead of time will help the travellers. Understanding the history would be the highlight of the trip. 2- Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh Borra Caves are in the Anantagiri Hill range of the Araku Valley. Spread across an area of about 2 sq km, the caves are situated around 1,400 m above sea level, as per the Vishakhapatnam district website. Tourists can spot several bats and golden geckos in these caves, the website further mentions. Planning ensures a smooth experience without missing local attractions. 3- Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh According to the Chamba district's website, Khajjar is a small saucer-shaped plateau surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests. It is one of the 160 places throughout the world to have been designated Mini Switzerland. Planning during peak season is advised for accommodations. Khajjiar is around 95 kilometers from Pathankot Railway Station and 130 kilometers from the Gaggal Airport in the district of Kangra. 4- Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh, is one of the largest monasteries in India and was founded in the 17th century. It is situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet and has an amazing view. Travelers must plan for altitude and weather. Proper preparation ensures a safe journey while experiencing the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. 5- Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh Chandratal Lake, or the Moon Lake, is a high-altitude gem with clear waters surrounded by mountain terrain. Its remote location makes it a favorite among trekkers and adventure travelers. However, reaching Chandratal Lake is challenging, requiring off-road travel. Travelers should plan carefully with vehicles suitable for rough terrain and pack warm clothing. The winter season is not considered good for travelling to this destination. According to a report by the Time of India, roads are blocked with snow during the winter chill. After the roads clear, travellers should plan a safe trip to the lake. These destinations prove that Indias diversity goes far beyond the familiar. Some require careful planning, others demand physical effort, but all reward travelers with unforgettable experiences. The India-US trade deal is being celebrated in the United States and being criticised in India. While ruling politicians in India celebrate the reduction of tariffs to 18%, neither the opposition nor the internet is happy about it. The reason is the past data and the Russian oil issue. The United State has officially warned that it will monitor India's purchase of Russian oil through direct or indirect channels, and if it finds that Delhi has resumed crude import from Moscow, it can re-impose the tariffs. While the American documents clearly links the trade deal, tariffs and Russia-India ties, the Narendra Modi government is in denials. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said that his work is to conclude the trade deal and the Russian oil purchase issue lies with the Ministry of External Affairs. On the other hand, when External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar was earlier asked the same questioned, he asked the reporters to connect with Goyal/commerce ministry. If one could remember, it was Jaishankar himself who once told the world that India can't be dictated on what to buy and from where to buy. The pride is gone now. The US has successfully coerced India and Delhi has succumbed to the pressure, feel experts. However, the MEA has issued a statement saying that India diversifies its oil imports as per market conditions, and the decision is taken based on meeting the energy needs of 140 crore citizens of the country. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source But there is no straight rejection of America's claim. This further raises speculations. Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturverdi also flagged the issue. "The President Trump executive order very clearly says if India buys Russian oil directly or indirectly, the tariffs can be reimposed, meaning this trade deal will be null and void. What is the Minister even claiming that the trade deal is independent from the oil purchase decision is? Minister, these arent two separate ministry issues but are directly connected to each other - the trade deal has come at the back of an assurance of being told where to buy oil from or not buy it from. These answers coming from a space of arrogance reinforce the fact that we allowed the USA to influence our national interests for its own gain & we buckled," said the MP. Even experts are flagging the issue on social media. An expert explained how the deal infringes upon India's sovereignty. "It is not my point that the trade deal does no good-- lowering tariffs on India's imports was long overdue....However, the US raised tariffs from 2.4% effectively to 18%. In addition, India gave up on sovereign decisions on where to buy oil from. In the past, India has compromised on oil from Iran and Venezuela, but now the US has forced it to compromise on oil from Russia, its biggest defence partner," said Kunal Singh, Research Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School. Singh further said the situation cannot improve even after Trump leaves office, because a future president would know that India can be successfully coerced. "Since new markers have been laid, any future bargaining with India will start with a terrible first offer from the US. Even if a future US president would like to be generous-- why would they?" he said. On the India-US trade deal, three myths. Myth 1: It is a deal, which involves give and take. India gave up certain things like Russian oil and tariffs, got the US to lower from 50% to 18%. Reality: The US raised tariffs from 2.4% effectively to 18%. 1/9 Kunal Singh (@d_extrovert) February 8, 2026 "The deal goes beyond and infringes on India's sovereignty in unprecedented ways. India's defence partnership with the US is nowhere near what it is with Russia. India is now allowing the US a vote on its relationship with Russia. It is a bad deal and needs to be called out," said Singh. Tanvi Ratna, Geoecon analyst and founder of Founder Policy 4.0, said that Trump has always hyphenated India with Russia. "In Trump's calculus, India was hyphenated with Russia from day one. The tariff pressure was leveragenot against India's trade surplus, but against India's Russia ties...If Russia-Ukraine talks break through, I would expect the India-US deal to solidify past the "interim" draft. If they collapse, expect volatility to return," she said. I called this months ago: Trump's tariff escalation on India was always 4D chess over Russia/Ukraine, it was never about India. Now even domestic commentators are saying this. However, I believe there are two aspects that add uncertainty to the India-US deal geopolitically. 1) https://t.co/tGVUlP8df0 Tanvi Ratna (@tanvi_ratna) February 8, 2026 Piyush Goyal and Dr S Jaishankars evasive replies show that India is still not comfortable with the US trade deal, and there is unease within the government, too. The two ministers have been very vocal when it comes to Indias pride and sovereignty, but not this time. The ambiguity around Indias Russian oil imports adds uncertainty to the trade deal with the US. Experts contend that this is not a trade deal at all, but a bargaining exercise where India has far more to lose than to gain, because its driven by Trumps coercive policies and not a mutual understanding between the two nations. Amcor has been chosen to supply bottles and flexible tubes for Fragrances of Ireland's latest extension of its Inis the Energy of the Sea collection into haircare. The Inis range is known for incorporating ingredients sourced from the North Atlantic, such as seaweed extracts and sea minerals, in its body care products. The new hair care line includes shampoo, conditioner, and a spray. Crilly & Wardell Design Consultants were tasked with designing the look for the hair care line that would align with the established Inis brand identity while Amcor manufactured the packaging. Fragrances of Ireland's new product development and marketing coordinator Raquel Gil said: Amcor has been the perfect partner for this important project. Their manufacturing and decoration expertise, together with the ability to manage the production of all three packs, mean we have the same high quality of construction across the range while ensuring that all our launch deadlines were met. The packaging set features a 150ml bottle with a pump, a 300ml bottle, and a 250ml flexible tube. Amcor's role included ensuring the blue shade used across all Fragrances of Ireland products was consistently applied to various materials such as HDPE for bottles and sprays, an HDPE/LLDPE blend for tubes, and PP for closures. The packaging also features silver foil decoration on the Inis logo. Both bottles are described as lightweight and durable. Amcor International rigid packaging solutions regional sales director Joe Horton said: This project ideally demonstrates our versatility, with the knowledge and ability to handle different materials to achieve a distinctive and consistent family range of packaging. In a separate recent development, Amcor partnered with Alter Eco to provide new packaging for the companys 200g chocolate bars. "Amcor offers packaging for Fragrances of Irelands hair care products" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. Lucknow: Ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assemblys Budget Session, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Monday underlined the states progress in law and order, economic growth and overall development since 2017. Addressing the media, Pathak said Uttar Pradesh had made significant strides over the past few years and now ranks first in maintaining law and order. He also pointed to a rise in per capita income, adding that the economic survey would be presented during the session, followed by budgetary allocations for various development schemes. The Budget Session of the Assembly begins on Monday and will feature a special discussion window from 5 pm to 8 pm each day, aimed at giving members additional time to raise issues beyond regular House proceedings. The session will run from February 9 to February 20, with the state budget for the 202627 financial year scheduled to be tabled on February 11. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Several key matters, including the presentation of the budget, are expected to be taken up during the session. Speaker Satish Mahana said efforts were being made to ensure the House functions for at least 30 days this year, urging the opposition to participate in debates rather than disrupt proceedings. In view of the session, police personnel and the Rapid Response Force have been deployed around the Assembly complex to maintain security. Traffic arrangements in the surrounding areas have also been strengthened to ease movement for legislators and officials. Ahead of the session, the NDA legislature party held a meeting on Sunday to prepare for the proceedings. Speaking later, Pathak expressed confidence that the session would be productive, saying legislators were enthusiastic and well prepared. Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya appealed to the opposition to raise issues in a constructive manner, stating that meaningful debate would strengthen the House. NDA MLA Danish Ansari, meanwhile, accused the opposition of lacking a clear agenda, asserting that the government had met public expectations on governance, law and order, and development. (With ANI inputs) Kanpur: A speeding Lamborghini, allegedly being driven by the son of a prominent tobacco businessman KK Mishra, created a mayhem after it hit pedestrians and several other vehicles. As per the NDTV report, at least six people were injured in a road accident on Sunday afternoon. As per the reports, the incident occurred around 3:15 P.M. near Gwaltoli area when the luxury car driven by the son, Shivam Mishra lost control in a drunk state and rammed several other vehicles along the roadside, DCP Atul Kumar Srivastava said. The incident took place at around 3.15 pm near Rev-3 Mall, where a luxury car allegedly being driven by Shivam Mishra, son of businessman K K Mishra, lost control. The vehicle rammed into people standing by the roadside and hit multiple vehicles, creating panic in the area, said DCP (Central) Atul Kumar Srivastava. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source As per eyewitnesses, the car first hit an auto-rickshaw and then it crashed into a parked Royal Enfield motorcycle, throwing it's rider nearly 10 feet into the air. The car climbed onto the motorcycles front wheel and dragged it for a short distance before crashing into an electric pole, where it finally came to a stop. As per ANI, an eyewitness, Satyendra Singh Chandel, described the incident and the aftermath, saying that the driver was taken away from the spot shortly after the accident. A victim named Taufiq Ahmed from Yamunaganj, was thrown several metres away and suffered serious leg injuries. Others suffered fractures and wounds, police said. In spite of stopping the car after hitting into several vehicles, Shivam Mishra tried to flee the scene. Mishras bouncers, who were trailing him in another vehicle, attempted to shield him but failed, and are alleged to have misbehaved with members of the public. Enraged bystanders then smashed the windows of the Lamborghini Aventador and dragged Mishra out of the car. Order was restored only after police reached the spot, rescued Mishra, and shifted him along with other injured persons to a private hospital. The luxury car, reportedly valued at over Rs 6 crore, is registered in Rohini in northwest Delhi, according to RTO records. The vehicle sustained extensive damage and has been seized by the police. As India advances towards its ambition of becoming a $7 trillion economy by 2030, the policy challenge is shiftingfrom driving growth to funding it responsibly. Expanding welfare without stretching public finances has become a delicate balancing act. Indonesias recent fiscal strategy offers India a timely lesson: social programmes need not be built on higher debt. In 2025, Indonesia undertook a sweeping fiscal reallocation under President Prabowo Subianto, creating nearly $30 billion in fiscal space without raising taxes or widening the deficit. The government achieved this by cutting waste, tightening enforcement, and recovering lost revenueproving that better governance can fund welfare while preserving macroeconomic stability. The reforms began with spending discipline. Non-essential expenditures were sharply curtailed, procurement processes streamlined, and ceremonial and administrative costs trimmed. Indonesia reportedly cut procurement waste by up to 90 per cent and slashed printing and rental expenses without compromising essential public services. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Most governments approach welfare by looking for more money, said Dr Prabhakar Patil, former Chief General Manager at Sebi. Indonesia reversed the questionwhere is money leaking, and how can existing budgets work harder? Equally important was Indonesias focus on enforcement as a fiscal tool. Illegal palm oil plantations and mining operations were brought under taxation, smuggling was curbed, and assets were seized in corruption casesconverting informal activity into formal revenue. Dr Siva Reddy Kalluru of the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics noted that this approach is highly relevant for India. Widening the tax base through enforcement restores fairness without raising rates or cutting welfare, he said. The savings were channelled into food security, healthcare, education, and rural developmentwhile keeping debt stable and deficits within legal limits. For India, the lesson is clear: welfare expansion and fiscal discipline need not be rivals. By spending smarter and enforcing better, governments can deliver inclusive growth without passing todays costs to future generations. For long, Pakistan threatened the world of using nukes against India if its sovereignty is threatened. It kept sending terrorists to India, kept funding the terror outfits and yet went unpunished. On the other hand, India kept lodging diplomatic protests while adhering to no-first use policy. After Operation Sindoor, things have appeared to have changed in South Block, which houses the PMO and the Defence Ministry (now shifting to new offices in Seva Teerth). Prime Minister Narendra Modi already stated that no nuclear blackmail will work if cross-border terror act continues. Though the Cold Start Doctrine evolved after the 2001 Parliament attack but is now visible at full force. After the Operation Sindoor, Indian Army officials publicly highlighted how India achieved its objective through limited warfare. For those uninitiated, cold start involves rapid, limited military action instead of long mobilisations. To counter Pakistan-backed terrorism and punish Pakistan for sponsoring terrorism against India, the Indian Armed Forces have deployed this quick launch strategy of coordinated strikes, which does not involve crossing the threshold of full-scale war. The Cold Start Doctrine involves the quick mobilisation of troops to achieve limited objectives. This also includes multiple battle groups including integrated units of infantry, armour, artillery, air support and is designed to avoid triggering nuclear threshold. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Pakistans fear is not simply of losing a battle, but of a fundamental unravelling of its defence philosophy. The Cold Start doctrine forces Islamabad to keep its military on perpetual high alert to guard against a surprise 48-hour offensive. Also, it appears that India is no longer keeping its nuclear stockpile buried under the ground. With real-time threats from Pakistan and vulnerabilities from the Chinese side, India may have deployed some of the weapons on its existing missile carriers, ready to respond in case attacked from these sides. Pakistan is now well aware that its nuclear bluff has been called out, it no longer holds the cards against India and the next conflict, whether limited or unlimited, will be catastrophic for its already struggling economy. In a shocking incident, several individuals were injured after a speeding Lamborghini car allegedly driven by the son of a tobacco businessman rammed into pedestrians and a motorcycle rider on the VIP Road in Kanpur on Sunday. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered following the accident. ANI reported, citing police, that the luxury car hit a motorcycle rider and injured several pedestrians. The vehicle involved in the incident has been seized by the Gwaltoli police station. Also Check- UP tycoon's son mows down pedestrians, crashes luxury car into other vehicles; several injured Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Who is Shivam Mishra? According to an NDTV report, police have said that the car was allegedly driven by Shivam Mishra. He is the son of a tobacco businessman, KK Mishra, and this is not the first time that his name has emerged on the wrong side of the law. Shivam Mishra was also in the spotlight in 2024 when multi-state Income Tax raids were conducted on his father's company. The probe was prompted due to discrepancies in the company's tax declarations. NDTV's report further stated that at Shivam Mishra's Delhi residence, the investigators had seized a fleet of luxury vehicles, all with the same number '4018.' Police action Kanpur Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal informed that the car was seized, and after the incident, Shivam Mishra's bouncers pulled him out of the vehicle. He also clarified that one person was injured in the accident and is being treated in the hospital. The top cop said, "We have found the details of the car. The car has been seized. The car was driven by Shivam Mishra. His father is KK Mishra. After the accident, Shivam Mishra's bouncers pulled him out of the car. It is being said that he has some medical issues. The FIR of the accident was registered earlier, and now, in our investigation, we have learned that the name of the driver is Shivam Mishra..." "Shivam Mishra is in the hospital. Our police team has reached his residence for further investigation. An FIR of an accident has been registered. One person was injured. He has been treated in the hospital. The law is equal for everyone, whether it is a Lamborghini or a smaller car... Actions will be taken against Shivam Mishra, who was driving the car..." he further added. FIR in the Kanpur road accident According to the FIR, the incident took place near Jhula Park Crossing at around 1:45 pm, when the Lamborghini hit a parked Bullet motorcycle before striking a passerby. The complainant suffered serious injuries to his left leg, ankle, and outer body. The motorcycle was also badly damaged. The case has been registered under relevant sections of BNS 2023, including sections 281, 125 (a), 125 (b), and 324 (4), and the investigation has been assigned to SI Dinesh Kumar. No arrests have been made so far in connection with the accident. (with ANI inputs) Mumbai: Actor Sonam Kapoor, who is expecting her second child with husband Anand Ahuja, hosted a baby shower at her Mumbai residence on Sunday evening. The special occasion was attended by several B-town celebrities who arrived to celebrate the mom-to-be. Many celebs from the film industry. Her dad, actor Anil Kapoor, her 'Veere Di Wedding' co-star Kareena Kapoor Khan, veteran actor Shabana Azmi, and other Bollywood personalities made their way to the party. Sonam's cousins Khushi Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor and Anshula Kapoor were also spotted by the paparazzi. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The 'Mr. India' actor, was seen arriving at the venue in a blue floral kurta-pyjama and greeted the paparazzi stationed outside with folded hands. Bebo, on the other hand, looked stunning in a blue ethnic outfit as she walked in to join the celebration. Arjun Kapoor, looked dapper in an orange kurta which he paired with white pyjamas and sunglasses. Shabana Azmi opted for a mustard yellow kurta set, while Khushi Kapoor stood out in a white and yellow saree. Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja got married in 2018. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Vayu, in 2022. Sonam shared the news of her second pregnancy in November 2025 with a stylish social media post that quickly went viral. She posted pictures in a pink outfit inspired by Princess Diana and wrote "Mother" with a kissing face emoji. Many friends from B-town sent their love. PeeCee and Kareena Kapoor congratulated the couple, while Parineeti Chopra wrote, "Congrats, mamacitaaa." Anand Ahuja also shared a sweet message for his wife, writing, "Baby ma.. also chicccccc mama!" New Delhi: A 90-year-old man in Maharashtra was allegedly mis-sold a life insurance policy with an annual premium of Rs 2 lakh by a Canara Bank branch manager. This issue has sparked grave concerns about bank-led insurance sales that disregard the financial well being of senior citizens and put them thorough neddless financial stress in their final years. The allegation was made public by Saketh R on X who said that the life insurance policy was mis-sold to the 90 year old elderly man who is his wifes grandfather. The man from Nagpur has been a customer of the Canara Bank branch for decades and had great faith in the branch manager but his trust was abused. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The manager sold the life insurance policy to the senior citizen with a premium of Rs 2 lakh per year with maturity date as 2124. Because of his age, lack of financial awareness and complete trust in the manager, the elderly man purchased the insurance policy. Saketh said that for two years, Rs 2 lakh was deducted each year which totalled Rs 4 lakh. This amount was a major part of the life savings of the elderly man. The user said that the manager might have sold the insurance policy to meet sales targets without caring about an elderly customers financial well being. Instead of protecting a senior citizen, the bank manager exploited decades of trust which caused unnecessary financial stress to the senior citizen in his final years. Saketh said that bank managers must act ethically, especially when selling insurance to senior citizens who depend on them for guidance and not misuse. A few hours later Saketh shared an update saying that the regional head and the branch manager visited the home on Sunday and helped resolve the issue promptly. They have assured that the amount will be refunded within a week. Canara Bank and Canara HSBC Life Insurance respond on X Canara Bank responded to Saketh's post and said, "Hi Saketh, we regret the inconvenience caused to you. We will forward it to the concerned team. Also, we would request you to refrain from sharing your personal information openly on the public platform. Thank you!" Hi Saketh, we regret the inconvenience caused to you. We will forward it to the concerned team. Also, we would request you to refrain from sharing your personal information openly on the public platform. Thank you! Canara Bank (@canarabank) February 7, 2026 Canara HSBC Life Insurance responded on X and said, "Dear Saketh, we are concerned about this matter and take such issues very seriously, especially those involving senior citizens. We have the necessary details and have initiated an internal review to understand the circumstances and take appropriate action." Netizens Reaction The post received widespread response on social media with several users suggesting that the RBI and IRDAI should be contacted about the issue. One user said, "Saketh, first step should be a proper written complaint to the bank and the insurance company. If they dont resolve it within 30 days, escalate it to RBI Ombudsman and IRDAI. Mis-selling to a 90 year old is taken very seriously and many people do get refunds once its formally escalated." "Hi Saketh, the end step is RBI & IRDAI but there are ways to escalate it within the bank as well, if their social media team refuses to help, please DM, can try to assist," said one user. Another user wrote, "Write to @RBI @nsitharaman and to Consumer Court. The money should be returned along with interest. And an apology. @canarabank what nonsense is this by your staff? Abusing the trust of a super senior citizen." One user said, "Put the names of the Bank Manager and whichever executive sold him the policy here. Chances are the bank will throw them out and they won't get another banking job. That should be a good deterrent. Also consider filing a police complaint for cheating against the BM at 100." A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered following the accident. Kanpur Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal informed that the car was seized, and after the incident, Shivam Mishra's bouncers pulled him out of the vehicle. He also clarified that one person was injured in the accident and is being treated in the hospital. the US embassy said that during his visit, Lieutenant General Joel 'JB' Vowell met with his Bangladesh armed forces counterparts, reinforcing the US Army's commitment to a strong relationship with the Bangladesh Army. Xiaomi 17T Pro India Launch: The Chinese smartphone brand is likely to launch its next T-series smartphones, with the lineup expected to debut with the Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro in early March 2026. However, the smartphone is reported to launch globally as a rebranded version of the Redmi K90 Ultra. According to media reports, the company is deepening its collaboration with audio giant BOSE, aiming to take the sound experience on its next-generation devices to the next level. The Xiaomi 17T Pro is likely to come with upgrades over the Xiaomi 15T Pro, which was released in September last year. It is suggested that the Xiaomi 17T Pro smartphone is rumoured to feature an enhanced X-axis linear motor and dual symmetrical stereo speakers. Xiaomi 17T Pro Specifications (Expected) Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The handset is expected to be powered by MediaTeks flagship Dimensity 9500 chipset and pack a massive 8,500mAh battery with support for 100W wired fast charging. It is tipped to offer a premium multimedia and haptics experience with an X-axis linear motor, dual symmetrical stereo speakers, and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. (Also Read: Google confirms over 1 billion Android phones are vulnerable to Malware and Spyware Attacks: How to protect your device) For durability, the device is said to feature an IP68 and IP69-rated build, ensuring strong resistance against dust and water. Adding to its audio credentials, the smartphone is also expected to house a unique third BOSE-tuned speaker discreetly integrated into the rear camera island, setting it apart from conventional dual-speaker setups. The smartphone's durability has also been enhanced, with the device tipped to feature an IP69-rated build that goes a step beyond the IP68 protection seen on earlier T-series models. (Also Read: AI Impact Summit 2026: 100 Countries, 15 Heads of State, 100+ CEOs to attend; Top global leaders, Check Delhi hotel rates) Xiaomi 17T Pro Price (Expected) Xiaomi 15T Pro debuted in September last year with a starting price of around Rs 77,000 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. Going by this, the upcoming Xiaomi 17T Pro could be priced higher, although the company has yet to reveal any official pricing details. Americana Restaurants International (AMR) has brought Lebanese quick service brand Malak Al Tawouk (MAT) into its portfolio through two related transactions. AMR has signed a long-term exclusive licensing agreement that gives it the rights to develop and operate MAT for 75 years in the covered territories. The licence spans 13 markets across the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council], the Levant, North Africa and Central Asia, covering the MENA and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) regions. MAT is a family-owned Lebanese brand founded in Beirut in 1996. Built around its signature Tawouk sandwich, the company has expanded to more than 45 restaurants in Lebanon and 19 across the Middle East. It has also expanded internationally, with stores in France and Canada. An out-of-home dining and quick service restaurant operator in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) and Kazakhstan, AMR said MAT marks its entry into the Arabic quick service segment, described as one of the fastest growing categories in the region. In parallel, AMR has also signed a share purchase agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in MATs current franchisees in the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). These existing MAT franchisees operate seven stores in the UAE and three stores in Saudi Arabia. AMR said the existing MAT franchises have annualised revenue of nearly $21.1m. It reported pre-IFRS EBITDA of $2.3m and net income of $1.7m for the same operations. The acquisition of the existing MAT franchisees is valued at $20.8m. AMR said the deal will be funded through internal cash reserves. AMR board chairman Mohamed Alabbar said: The acquisition of Malak Al Tawouk is the first decisive step in Americana Restaurants diversification into Arabic cuisine and a clear expression of our growth ambition. Malak Al Tawouk owners Joseph Saade, Alain Saade, and Joseph Ajoury added: This partnership supports our ambition to expand thoughtfully across new markets while preserving the authentic experience and modern brand identity that our customers value. "Americana secures 75-year Malak Al Tawouk licence and acquires UAE and KSA units" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. This is the perfect excuse to refresh your everyday footwear with pieces that are stylish, comfortable, and budget-friendly. Womens sliders have become a must-have easy to slip on, light on the feet, and versatile enough to style with dresses, co-ords, joggers, or even ethnic fusion looks. From sporty printed sliders to elegant solid designs, this curated list brings together comfort and trend appeal. Whether youre travelling, or just enjoying relaxed days out, these sliders are practical fashion heroes youll reach for again and again. Image Source- Myntra.com Order Now The Puma Women Popcat 2.0 Apexa Printed Sliders are designed for women who love sporty fashion with a bold edge. Featuring a striking print and Pumas signature comfort, these sliders are ideal for everyday wear, gym days, or casual outings. The cushioned sole offers support, while the modern design adds instant style to relaxed looks. Key Features: Eye-catching printed strap. Cushioned sole for comfort. Lightweight and durable. Sporty, modern design. Sporty style may not suit formal outfits. Image Source- Myntra.com Order Now The Mochi Women Pink Solid Sliders bring a soft, feminine charm to everyday footwear. With their clean solid design and soothing color, these sliders are perfect for casual wear and relaxed styling. Easy to slip on and comfortable to walk in, they pair beautifully with summer dresses, jeans, and loungewear alike. Key Features: Elegant solid pink design. Lightweight and easy to wear. Comfortable sole for daily use. Versatile styling option. Light color may need frequent cleaning. Image Source- Myntra.com Order Now The Carlton London Women Solid Sliders are a blend of minimal elegance and everyday comfort. Designed for women who prefer subtle sophistication, these sliders feature a sleek silhouette that works well with both casual and semi-casual outfits. Their comfortable construction makes them ideal for long hours of wear without compromising style. Key Features: Minimal, classy design. Comfortable footbed. Durable construction. Easy slip-on style. Minimal design may feel too simple for trend lovers. Image Source- Myntra.com Order Now The HRX by Hrithik Roshan Unisex Printed Sliders are perfect for those who enjoy bold prints with everyday comfort. Designed for versatility, these sliders suit both men and women and work well for travel, errands, or casual hangouts. The cushioned sole ensures ease, while the graphic print adds a sporty, youthful vibe. Key Features: Trendy printed strap. Unisex and versatile design. Cushioned sole for comfort. Lightweight and easy to carry. Not suitable for long walking sessions. This is the ideal moment to invest in sliders that balance comfort and style effortlessly. Whether you love the sporty appeal of Puma, the soft feminine vibe of Mochi, the refined elegance of Carlton London, or the bold versatility of HRX, theres a perfect pair for every preference. These sliders are designed for everyday ease easy to style, easy to wear, and easy on the budget during the sale. Dont miss the chance to refresh your footwear collection with these must-have picks and step into comfort-led fashion all season long. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article. Bangladesh and the United States signed a key reciprocal tariff agreement on Monday evening, just days before Bangladesh's national elections on February 12. This timely deal promises to strengthen trade ties and support the country's vital garment industry. Bangladesh's Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman signed on behalf of Dhaka. US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer represented Washington. Talks had lasted nine months since April last year. Just in: Bangladesh, US sign reciprocal tariff agreement. Under the agreement, the US will reduce reciprocal tariff to 19 percent. Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 9, 2026 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The pact cuts US reciprocal tariffs on Bangladeshi goods from 20% to 19%. In April 2025, the Trump administration imposed a 37% tariff on Bangladesh. It later dropped to 35%, then 20% in August. It also sets zero tariffs for select textile and apparel items made with US cotton or man-made fibers. Commerce Adviser Uddin called it a "historic step" that opens bigger markets for both nations. The US will create a system allowing zero reciprocal tariffs on select Bangladeshi textile and apparel goods made with US cotton or man-made fibers. Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus shared details about the tariff agreement on social media hadle X, he said "The Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff between Bangladesh and the United States was signed on Monday. On the Bangladesh side, the signatories were Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman..." WASHINGTON DC, February 9: The Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff between Bangladesh and the United States was signed on Monday. On the Bangladesh side, the signatories were Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and National Security Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) February 9, 2026 National Security Adviser Rahman, who led negotiations, said the changes will help exporters and give a major lift to Bangladesh's garment sector. The Council of Advisers approved the deal today. It takes effect after both sides issue notifications. Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch attended the signing. As elections near, officials hail the agreement as a win for jobs and economic growth. The deal comes as election campaigning wraps up for the February 12 polls. Whichever party wins Thursday's vote will welcome this US reciprocal tariff pact. Garments account for nearly 95% of Bangladesh's US exports. According to local reports it hands Dhaka a key edge in the US apparel market. Amid escalating war threats with the United States, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi categorically ruled out any possibility of Tehran abandoning uranium enrichment during negotiations with Washington, and asserted that the military buildup in the region does not intimidate us. Following US President Donald Trumps warning to Iran and his claim that a massive armada was rapidly advancing toward the country with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran was on high alert, with fingers on the trigger, ready to respond immediately and forcefully to any act of aggression. According to Al Jazeera's report, Araghchi warned US that Tehran will target American bases in the Gulf if Washington attacks Iran. He said, "It would not be possible to attack American soil, but we will target their bases in the region." Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Araghchi also said that Iran will not attack neighbouring countries, but it will target US bases stationed in them and there is a big difference between the two. He also expressed skepticism toward the United States, questioning whether Washington is genuinely committed to a diplomatic resolution. He reaffirmed that Iran will not agree to any deal that undermines its freedom and dignity. At the same time, he indicated that Tehran could consider confidence-building measures if sanctions are lifted, provided they are implemented with mutual respect. Last year, Iran launched approximately 500 missiles toward Israel, though the attacks caused limited damage. Despite this, the US military continues to view Irans missile capabilities as a serious threat. According to The Wall Street Journal, Iran is believed to possess around 2,000 medium-range ballistic missiles capable of striking targets across the region. In addition, it has short-range missiles that can reach US military bases in the Gulf. Western nations and Israel have long accused Iran of seeking to develop nuclear weapons, but Tehran has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that its nuclear programme is intended for peaceful purposes. On February 6, Iran and the United States held talks in Oman regarding the nuclear issue. The US President Donald Trump described the discussions as very good, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called them a step forward toward peace. However, shortly after the talks, Trump announced new tariffs on countries trading with Iran and imposed additional sanctions on companies and vessels associated with Iranian oil exports. Iran-US tensions: New diplomatic signals are coming from Tehran as talks with Washington continue to be influenced by President Donald Trumps pressure-driven foreign policy. Irans atomic chief Mohammad Eslami has said that the country could consider diluting the purity of its highly enriched uranium stockpile up to 60 percent if the United States agrees to lift sanctions that have battered the countrys economy for years. He said the decision would depend on what Iran received in economic relief and how many sanctions were removed. He did not make it clear whether Tehran wanted all global sanctions lifted or only those imposed by the United States. The decision shows that Iran is negotiating for economic relief, not stepping back strategically. Officials are weighing the impact on fuel supplies, trade, banking access and oil exports before agreeing to reduce nuclear activity. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In nuclear terms, dilution involves blending highly enriched uranium with lower-grade material to bring enrichment levels down. The country presently stands alone among non-nuclear-armed states in producing uranium enriched to 60 percent, a level that reduces the technical distance to weapons-grade material. That capability has become a bone of contention in talks strongly influenced by Trumps hardline demands. The US president has spent months insisting on a total halt to Irans uranium enrichment. Tehran viewed the demand as an attempt to dismantle its civilian nuclear infrastructure altogether. Iranian policymakers say their position is based on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. They argue that countries that signed it have the legal right to develop nuclear energy for peaceful use. Diplomatic traffic is now intensifying around Oman, where mediated talks between Iranian and American representatives are being facilitated. Senior Iranian security leadership is preparing to carry messages tied directly to enrichment levels, sanctions relief and verification mechanisms. The backchannel diplomacy shows the tense environment created by years of threats, rising sanctions and military pressure during Trumps tenure. Irans foreign policy officials say the talks are serious and focussed on securing results. They are showing willingness to reach a deal that protects Irans nuclear rights while also bringing economic relief. At the same time, there is mistrust toward Washington because of past deal pullouts and expanded sanctions during Trumps time in power. Within Irans executive leadership, the talks are being treated as a rare diplomatic opening capable of producing a balanced settlement. Decision-makers are pushing for guarantees that sanctions removal would be durable, enforceable and insulated from future political reversals in Washington. Meanwhile, Trump continues to publicly describe the talks through the language of coercion. He presents Iran as being under pressure and warns that if no deal is reached, there could be serious consequences. Military deployments ordered during earlier confrontation cycles is part of the psychological backdrop surrounding negotiations, including carrier strike groups and forward naval assets deployed across Middle Eastern waters. Observers tracking the talks see movement toward preliminary understanding if compared to previous months. Messages being passed through Gulf countries sound careful but positive. These regional mediators are now trying to turn general political discussions into detailed negotiations on issues like limits on uranium enrichment, nuclear inspections and the step-by-step lifting of sanctions. Iran has claimed that unexploded American bombs and missiles remain at its nuclear facilities, triggering fresh global concern over nuclear inspections, weapons security, and the possible spread of advanced military technology. Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi revealed that these weapons were dropped by the United States during the final phase of the 12-day IsraelIran war, when Irans nuclear sites were targeted. In todays episode of DNA, Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor of Zee News, conducted a detailed analysis of Irans claims, the international response, and the growing fears in Washington and Tel Aviv over the potential misuse of advanced American weapons technology. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source According to Araghchi, Iran informed International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi that unexploded U.S. munitions are still present at sensitive nuclear locations. Iran also sought clarity on whether any international rules exist for inspections at sites containing unexploded foreign weapons. Grossi reportedly responded that no specific global protocol or law governs such inspections. Following this, Iran declared that no inspections would be permitted until clear security protocols are established. This effectively halted international monitoring of Irans nuclear facilities. Analysts say the move served a dual purposeshielding Irans nuclear infrastructure while also preventing global access to advanced American bombs and missiles. The situation intensified after Iran issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), temporarily closing airspace over central Iran. Experts note that NOTAMs are usually issued during wartime conditions or weapons testing, raising suspicions that Iran may be preparing tests linked to newly acquired or studied weapons systems. The timing of the airspace closure, coming immediately after Irans disclosure, has further fueled speculation. Security experts in the U.S. and Israel have expressed concern that Iran may be attempting reverse engineering of American weapons. Reverse engineering involves dismantling and studying existing systems to replicate or improve upon them. Analysts believe that unexploded U.S. munitions may already have been examined by Iranian engineers. The weapons at the center of concern include the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, the worlds most powerful non-nuclear bunker-buster bomb, and the Tomahawk cruise missile. The GBU-57, weighing nearly 14 tons, is designed to destroy deeply buried nuclear facilities and can only be delivered by B-2 stealth bombers. During Operation Midnight Hammer, carried out on the night of June 2122, 2025, the U.S. used B-2 bombers to strike Irans Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan nuclear sites, while more than 30 Tomahawk missiles were launched from submarines. Experts believe Iran cannot fully clone the GBU-57 due to the absence of delivery platforms like the B-2 bomber. However, studying its steel casing, penetration capability, and delayed detonation system could allow Iran to significantly upgrade its own bunker-buster weapons and missile warheads. The Tomahawk missile presents a greater concern. With a range of up to 1,600 kilometers, terrain-hugging flight, and high-precision guidance, it is considered a first night weapon used to disable enemy air defenses. Iran already possesses cruise missiles of a similar class, and reverse engineering Tomahawk technology could improve accuracy, stealth, and resistance to electronic jamming in Irans arsenal. The United States primary concern is that Iran may share insights from these weapons with China or Russia. Both countries possess the technological capacity to develop close replicas. History shows such precedentsfrom the Soviet Unions cloning of the U.S. B-29 bomber to Chinas replication of Russian fighter jets. Iran itself previously reverse-engineered the captured U.S. RQ-170 drone to develop the Shahed-series drones. Defense analysts warn that even if Iran does not produce exact American replicas, the knowledge gained could significantly alter the regional balance of power, strengthening Irans offensive capabilities while also allowing it to better fortify its nuclear facilities against future strikes. US-Iran tensions: Amid tensions between Iran and the United States, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the recent talks between the two nations as a step forward, and also added that Iran does not tolerate the language of force. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Pezeshkian also stated that dialogue has been Iran's strategy for peaceful resolution. "The Iran-U.S. talks, held through the follow-up efforts of friendly governments in the region, were a step forward. Dialogue has always been our strategy for peaceful resolution," the President wrote. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source "Our logic on the nuclear issue is the explicit rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The Iranian nation has always responded to respect with respect, but it does not tolerate the language of force," Pezeshkian added. US-Iran tensions In the past few weeks, the US has expanded its military presence in the Middle East, following which Iran also stepped up its preparations, fueling concerns about the risk of a conflict. Regional countries have been pushing for de-escalation, fearing that a new conflict would destabilise the Middle East and disrupt global energy markets. President Trump's long-standing hardline approach toward Iran is not unknown. During his first term, Trump withdrew the US from the Iran nuclear deal, reinstated "maximum pressure" sanctions, and designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation. After returning to the office, Trump restored maximum pressure policies to deny Iran any path to a nuclear weapon. US-Iran talks US President Donald Trump has confirmed that Washington and Tehran will hold further talks following what he described as "very good" initial discussions in Oman. The talks, held on Friday in the Gulf Arab state of Oman, marked the first round of negotiations between the two sides since the United States and Israel struck Iran last summer. Despite describing the talks as productive, Trump said on Friday that a "big fleet" was heading toward Iran and would arrive soon, as per ANI, CNN reported. Trump's tariff on countries doing business with Iran Trump on Friday signed an executive order stating that the national emergency with respect to Iran and establishing a mechanism to impose additional tariffs on countries that continue to do business with Tehran, according to ANI. Under the order, beginning on its effective date, the US may impose an additional ad valorem duty-for example, up to 25 per cent- on goods imported into the US from any country that directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires goods or services from Iran. In another development, the US government had earlier issued a security alert for Iran, warning of heightened security measures, internet disruptions, flight cancellations, and nationwide restrictions on communications. The advisory urged US citizens to leave Iran immediately if it is safe to do so, avoid demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and prepare for prolonged disruptions. (with ANI inputs) Also Check- How Trump is rewriting global diplomacy to serve his own interests Amid rising US military presence in the Gulf, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly skips the annual February meeting with air force commanders, breaking his 37-year-old tradition. According to Iran International, Khamenei has attended annual meeting every year since assuming leadership in 1989, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual meeting commemorates February 8, 1979, when a group of air force officers pledged loyalty to Ruhollah Khomeini in a move to overthrow the Pahlavi dynasty. Khomeini was the founder of the Islamic Republic and the predecessor of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as Supreme Leader. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Over the following four decades, the date evolved into a symbolic occasion, marked by annual meetings between air force personnel and commanders and Irans clerical leadership each year. As per the report this year, the chief of staff of the armed forces, Abdolrahim Mousavi attended the army force commanders on Sunday instead of Khamenei. Khameneis absence comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, as the United States increases its military presence in the region and concerns grow over the possibility of a US strike against the Islamic Republic. Khamenei's decision to stay away is being interpreted as an effort to avoid potential security threats or as a result of his focus on sensitive national security matters. Tehran has repeatedly cautioned that any US attack on Iran would trigger a wider conflict across the Middle East, warning that a US-initiated war would spread throughout the region. The remarks referenced the 12-day IranIsrael conflict in mid-June 2025. Despite the ceasefire, tensions between Iran and the United States persist. Washington continues to push for negotiations that include Irans missile programme, while Tehran insists that talks be limited to its nuclear activities. This deadlock has resulted in reciprocal threats of airstrikes, with disagreements over the scope of negotiations fueling uncertainty and keeping open the possibility that US President Donald Trump could follow through on threats to strike Iran. Amid rising tensions with Iran, the United States deployed its aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to the Arabian Sea in late January. Reports also indicate that around a dozen F-15 fighter jets, an MQ-9 Reaper combat drone, and several A-10C Thunderbolt II ground-attack aircraft were stationed at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Sunday expressed appreciation for US President Donald Trump's message, underscoring her commitment to further strengthening the Japan-US Alliance and confirming her upcoming visit to White House. "I am sincerely grateful to President Donald J. Trump for his warm words," Takaichi said in a post on X, adding that she looked forward to continuing close cooperation between the two countries. The Japanese leader said the alliance and friendship between Japan and the United States are rooted in "deep trust and close, strong cooperation," and highlighted the scope for expanding bilateral ties across security, economic, and strategic domains. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source "The potential of our Alliance is limitless," Takaichi said, stressing the importance of sustained collaboration. She added that Japan and the United States should work together to ensure the alliance continues to contribute to "peace and prosperity" for both nations and beyond. Takaichi's remarks came in response to a post by Trump on his Truth Social platform, in which the US President endorsed the Japanese Prime Minister on Sunday as Japan went to the polls for a crucial legislative election. In a Truth Social post, Trump described the February 8 vote as "a very important Legislative Election" for Japan's future and praised Takaichi as a proven leader. "The Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has already proven to be a strong, powerful, and wise Leader, and one that truly loves her Country, " Trump said. Trump said he was looking forward to welcoming Takaichi to the White House on March 19, recalling his recent visit to Japan, during which he and his delegation were "extremely impressed" with her leadership. Highlighting bilateral cooperation, Trump pointed to close coordination between Washington and Tokyo on national security and trade. He said the United States and Japan have worked together on "a very substantial Trade Deal, one that strongly benefits both Countries." In a direct endorsement of a foreign leader during an election, Trump declared, "As President of the United States of America, it is my Honor to give a Complete and Total Endorsement of her, and what her highly respected Coalition is representing." He concluded the message with a strong vote of confidence in the Japanese leader, writing in capital letters, "SHE WILL NOT LET THE PEOPLE OF JAPAN DOWN!" and wished voters luck ahead of what he called their "very important Sunday Vote." Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's upcoming visit to Washington, her first since taking office, will precede US President Donald Trump's planned April trip to China, as Beijing has taken an increasingly hard-line stance over her comments on a potential crisis in the Taiwan Strait, Kyodo News reported. Trump has repeatedly praised Japan's commitment to making large-scale investments in the United States, a key element of a trade deal reached last summer following his tariff threats against Tokyo, Kyodo News said. Since her early days in office, Trump has publicly lauded Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, describing her as a protegee of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, with whom he forged a close personal relationship during his first term. On Sunday, the US State Department said the administration looks forward to advancing " U.S. security and economic priorities, as well as our shared interests, in the Indo-Pacific and globally" with Japan, Kyodo News reported. A State Department spokesperson described the US-Japan alliance as "the cornerstone of peace, security and prosperity" in the region, adding that it "has never been stronger," according to Kyodo News. US Senator Adam Schiff warned that President Donald Trumps calls to nationalize US elections could undermine democracy at home and damage Americas standing abroad, as the country moves toward midterm elections. Speaking on ABCs This Week, Schiff said Trump appeared prepared to interfere in the vote if Republicans lose. I think hell intend to try to subvert the elections, Schiff said. He will do everything he can to suppress the vote. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Schiff said Americans should take the warning seriously. He pointed to Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election. We saw him try to the point of insurrection to overturn the 2020 election, he said. Schiff said Trumps recent actions and rhetoric suggest a similar approach ahead of November. Hes basically telling us he intends to interfere in this coming election, he said. The California Democrat said the issue goes beyond US domestic politics. He warned that repeated claims of election fraud weaken confidence in American democracy and are closely watched overseas. Schiff raised alarm over the involvement of the Director of National Intelligence in an FBI operation that seized 2020 election materials in Georgia. He said the intelligence chief has no role in domestic election matters. Her job is to oversee the work of the intelligence agencies, outward focusing on foreign threats, Schiff said, not to create a threat to our domestic tranquility by interfering in elections. He called the episode unprecedented and questioned why authorities revisited an election that had already been reviewed multiple times. Why is the FBI conducting a raid five years after the fact when there were three recounts in Georgia? he asked. Schiff said such actions appeared designed to send a warning. The message is, we will not tolerate or accept an election that we lose, he said. He also linked election concerns to immigration enforcement. Schiff said lawmakers must ensure that federal agents do not intimidate voters. We dont have ICE agents at polling places, he said, adding that elections must be free and fair. Schiff criticized Republican Senator Tommy Tubervilles claim that some elections were bogus, which Trump later shared online. This is just the latest iteration of the big lie, Schiff said. He accused Republicans of laying the groundwork to dispute election results if they lose. They keep telling the American people that somehow American elections are untrustworthy, he said. Schiff rejected proposals requiring proof of citizenship or photo identification to vote. He said such measures would suppress turnout. Its part of the broader disenfranchisement effort, he said. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler, appearing separately on the program, condemned a Trump-linked post that used racist imagery of former President Barack Obama. Lawler called it wrong and incredibly offensive and said it should never have been shared. Schiff said protecting democracy will ultimately fall to voters, not politicians or courts. The last, best hope for our democracy is going to be the American people, he said. For international audiences, including in India, the debate underscores how internal US political battles can have wider consequences, shaping global views of American democratic stability and leadership. Donald Trumps second term as President of the United States (POTUS) has been marked by extreme foreign policies and decisions that have increasingly raised questions about his ambitions on the global stage, ambitions that go beyond traditional politics and may signal a reshaping of Americas role in world affairs. While not a complete departure from his previous policies or ideology, these actions reflect a more assertive, uncompromising approach. Trumps Greenland Push Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In recent weeks, attention has been on Trumps controversial attempt to bring an autonomous territory under direct US control. After publicly declaring his intentions to acquire Greenland, Trump framed the move as a matter of global security. Reports also suggested that he wrote a letter to the Norwegian Prime Minister stating that Denmark could not protect Greenland from Russia or China and adding that, having not received the Nobel Peace Prize, he could no longer "think purely of peace." Notably, expansionist tactics like this rarely get a seat at the table with modern diplomacy, making the push unprecedented. Tariffs or Leverage? Over the past year, Trump has repeatedly used tariffs as a tool to pressure other nations into meeting US demands. Most recently, he signed an executive order targeting countries that continue to purchase goods and services from Iran, citing national security and foreign policy concerns. Protecting Americas national security, foreign policy, and economy, the White House stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter), announcing the order. This approach signals a transactional style of diplomacy, where economic leverage is used to achieve political and strategic goals. Pushing Back Against the UN Trumps foreign policy also reflects deep skepticism toward multilateral institutions. Under his leadership, the United States exited the World Health Organization (WHO), citing failures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Washingtons funding and staffing for WHO initiatives were halted. Taken together, these moves raise questions about whether the US is pivoting away from the multilateral framework that has historically defined its global engagement, acting instead only where it can maintain dominant influence. The Kim Jong-un angle In an alleged hot mic moment, in which Trump reportedly praised the administrative style of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, which was widely shared on social media. In the clip, Trump reportedly said, ...he speaks, and his people sit up in attention. I want my people to do the same. Taken together, these elements, territorial expansion, economic coercion, weakening multilateral institutions, and a personal, top-down approach to governance, suggest a departure from traditional, consensus-based diplomacy. While it may be too strong to label these actions as a dictatorship outright, they could indicate a style of leadership and foreign policy that prioritises control, influence, and personal authority. Angola is in negotiations to acquire a 20%-30% interest in De Beers, the diamond unit of Anglo American, reported Reuters, citing a senior official from Angola's mining ministry. The discussions are part of broader talks with other African diamond-producing nations, said the publication. De Beers is considered to be one of the leading global diamond enterprises with operations across several countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Angola, and Canada. It is currently up for sale by Anglo due to declining diamond prices and the increasing prevalence of synthetic diamonds. In October 2025, Angola initially bid for a majority interest in De Beers but subsequently adjusted its goal to seek a minority holding. Angola's National Director of Mineral Resources Paulo Tanganha was cited by Reuters at an African mining conference in Cape Town as saying: Taking the majority stake within luxury commodities is very dangerous because it depends on the market. So to de-risk that, we have to have a portion that is sustainable for our economy. And that range (is) between 20% and 30%, we are happy about that. The pursuit of this stake places Angola in potential competition with Botswana, which currently possesses a 15% share of De Beers and has expressed intentions to secure a majority holding. Tanganha indicated that confidential discussions are underway involving Botswana, Angola, Namibia, and South Africa to establish a shared approach to benefiting from ownership in De Beers. However, no consensus has been achieved so far. For Angola, the stake acquisition would be managed by its state-owned entities Endiama and Sodiam on behalf of the government. Tanganha did not reveal specifics regarding the financial mechanisms Angola would employ to fund the acquisition but mentioned the existence of numerous funding options for the country. "Angola eyes 20%-30% interest in De Beers" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The new Epstein scandal hasn't shaken the US government, but it has sparked calls for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation. Labour MP and current Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, is emerging as a potential successor. Newly released Jeffrey Epstein files reveal ties between the convicted sex offender and Peter Mandelson, Starmer's choice for UK ambassador to Washington, plunging the British government into crisis. Emails and documents reveal Mandelson stayed in touch with Epstein after his 2008 conviction, even calling him a best pal and suggesting his jail time was unfair. Mandelson reportedly recommended private villas for Epstein's guests and may have leaked sensitive UK government info, like euro bailout plans, while receiving payments linked to Epstein. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The new 2026 US Justice Department files showed deeper ties, including Mandelson lobbying US banks for Epstein, which Downing Street held for days before sacking him in 2025. Police raided Mandelson-linked properties in February 2026 for misconduct probes. Starmer's Chief of Staff, Morgan McSweeney, quit amid the chaos, with demand for Starmers resignation also growing further. Who is Shabana Mahmood ? Shabana Mahmood is the UK's current Home Secretary and a prominent Labour Party politician of Pakistani descent, potentially positioning her as a contender for Prime Minister amid recent political turmoil. She was born in Birmingham to Zubaida and Mahmood Ahmed, whose family roots trace back to Pakistan and the Mirpur area of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Recent reports highlight her as a possible successor to Keir Starmer, which could make her the first Muslim Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Mahmood stands out as a surprise candidate, called a "dark horse." She takes a strict view on immigration. For example, she wants to make migrants wait twice as long, from 5 years to 10 years, to get permanent residency in the UK. Shabana became one of the first Muslim women elected as an MP in 2010 alongside Rushanara Ali and Yasmin Qureshi. She previously served as Justice Secretary before her appointment as Home Secretary in a 2025 cabinet reshuffle, marking her as the first Muslim woman in that role. Mahmood's rapid rise stems from her tough, hardline reputation. Party leaders see these traits as key to winning back voters tempted by Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform UK. While the demands for Starmers resignation grow further, for Shabana Mahmood to become Prime Minister, Keir Starmer must first resign or face a leadership challenge. That challenge needs support from at least 81 Labour MPs, that's 20% of the party's seats in Parliament. Feb 9 (Reuters) - Apollo Global Management is close to finalizing a roughly $3.4 billion loan to an investment vehicle that plans to buy Nvidia chips and lease them to Elon Musk's xAI, The Information reported on Monday, citing a person familiar with the matter. Less than a week ago, Musk announced that SpaceX acquired the artificial intelligence company he also leads in a deal that values the rocket and satellite company at $1 trillion and the AI outfit at $250 billion. More from Yahoo Scout How much are tech companies spending on AI infrastructure? What is Apollo's $3.4 billion loan financing for? What is the strategic rationale behind SpaceX acquiring xAI? How does chip leasing benefit AI startups like xAI? Musk has said the rationale behind combining SpaceX and xAI is partly to advance the development of orbital data centers, which could use space-based infrastructure to support next-generation AI computing. Big tech companies are expected to spend more than $600 billion this year to buy advanced chips and build out massive data centers needed to deploy and train AI systems. The investment could be finalized as soon as this week and Valor Equity Partners, a longtime investor in Musk's companies, is arranging the deal, the report said. SpaceX, Nvidia and xAI did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment, while Apollo declined to comment. Leasing chips and compute infrastructure allows AI startups such as xAI to scale rapidly while preserving capital that would otherwise be tied up in costly hardware purchases. The transaction would mark Apollo's second major investment in a vehicle that leases chips to xAI, following a similar $3.5 billion loan made in November. Apollo said on Saturday its funds led $3.5 billion in financing for a roughly $5.4 billion data-center compute deal arranged by Valor Equity Partners to lease high-performance hardware to xAI. The financing, structured as a triple-net lease to support one of the world's largest compute clusters for AI model training, also includes Nvidia as an anchor investor in the vehicle. (Reporting by Akash Sriram in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur) As global markets navigate a period of volatility marked by concerns over artificial intelligence investments and geopolitical tensions, Asian economies are also experiencing shifts, with China's economic activity showing mixed signals and Japan's stock markets buoyed by domestic optimism. In this environment, growth companies in Asia with substantial insider ownership can be particularly intriguing to investors, as high insider stakes often indicate confidence in a company's long-term potential. Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Asia Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Seers Technology (KOSDAQ:A458870) 32% 80% Phison Electronics (TPEX:8299) 10.8% 44.3% Novoray (SHSE:688300) 23.6% 31.4% Modetour Network (KOSDAQ:A080160) 12.3% 41.8% Loadstar Capital K.K (TSE:3482) 31% 23.6% Laopu Gold (SEHK:6181) 34.7% 34.6% J&V Energy Technology (TWSE:6869) 17.9% 27.1% Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology (SZSE:002709) 39.1% 83.3% Gold Circuit Electronics (TWSE:2368) 31.3% 39.1% Fulin Precision (SZSE:300432) 10.6% 80% Click here to see the full list of 587 stocks from our Fast Growing Asian Companies With High Insider Ownership screener. We'll examine a selection from our screener results. Simply Wall St Growth Rating: Overview: Koal Software Co., Ltd. develops public key infrastructure platforms in China and has a market cap of CN6.34 billion. Operations: Koal Software Co., Ltd.'s revenue segments are not specified in the provided text. Insider Ownership: 30.3% Koal Software is positioned for significant growth, with earnings expected to increase by 65% annually, outpacing the Chinese market's 28.2%. Revenue is also forecasted to grow at 23.1% per year, surpassing the market average of 14.5%. Despite these promising figures, recent financial results were impacted by large one-off items and declining profit margins from last years 6.5% to 2.2%, alongside a highly volatile share price recently observed. SHSE:603232 Ownership Breakdown as at Feb 2026 Simply Wall St Growth Rating: Overview: Ninebot Limited is involved in the design, R&D, production, sale, and servicing of transportation and robot products globally, with a market cap of CN38.31 billion. Operations: Ninebot Limited generates revenue through its global operations in transportation and robot product design, development, manufacturing, sales, and service. Insider Ownership: 14.4% Francois Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the French central bank, sits at a press conference in the press center in Baden-Baden during a meeting of the G20 finance ministers. Lino Mirgeler/dpa The governor of the Bank of France, Francois Villeroy de Galhau, will step down from his post in June, the central bank said on Monday. Villeroy de Galhau will take over as chairman of the Fondation Apprentis d'Auteuil, a Catholic organization that supports disadvantaged children, according to the statement. He has been at the helm of the French bank since 2015 and was due to remain in office until the end of 2027. "This new role in an important social sector is of great significance to me as it allows me to continue serving the common good," Villeroy de Galhau said. President Emmanuel Macron now has the opportunity to nominate a successor to lead the Bank of France before the 2027 presidential election. As head of the bank, Villeroy de Galhau helped determine eurozone monetary policy as a member of the European Central Bank's (ECB) Governing Council. ECB President Christine Lagarde expressed her gratitude to the governor in a statement: "The Governing Council has benefited enormously from the realism combined with strong European convictions and vision that he always brings to the table." Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE:B) is included among 12 Unstoppable Dividend Stocks to Buy According to Analysts. Barrick Mining Corporation (B) Draws Mixed Views as UBS Cuts Target and CIBC Turns More Bullish Image by Csaba Nagy from Pixabay On February 6, UBS lowered its price target on Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE:B) to $55 from $59, while maintaining a Buy rating on the stock. A few days earlier, on February 4, CIBC moved in the opposite direction. The firm raised its price target on Barrick to $71 from $50 and reiterated an Outperformer rating. The change came as CIBC lifted its gold price forecasts to $6,000 per ounce for 2026 and $6,500 for 2027, while also raising its copper assumptions. The analyst said the same demand drivers seen in 2025 are expected to carry into 2026, though geopolitical risks are becoming more pronounced. On February 5, Bloomberg reported that Barrick plans to spin off its top North American gold assets through an initial public offering as part of a broader strategic reset. The company said it intends to sell a minority stake in the new North American unit, with an IPO targeted for late 2026. Interim chief executive Mark Hill told investors the company plans to sell between 10% and 15% of the new entity. The proposed IPO could be valued at more than $60 billion and follows a period of operational and leadership challenges. Barrick has faced declining production in recent years and a management shakeup, including the abrupt exit of former CEO Mark Bristow in September after the seizure of a key mine in Mali by the countrys military junta. The spinoff is expected to include Barricks joint-venture interests in Nevada, including the Fourmile discovery, as well as a mine in the Dominican Republic. Assets located in higher-risk regions such as Africa and Pakistan will remain with the parent company. Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE:B) produces gold and copper and is also involved in related activities such as exploration and mine development. While we acknowledge the potential of B as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 15 Best Wide Moat Dividend Stocks to Invest in and 13 Best Long Term Low Risk Stocks to Buy Now Disclosure: None. The economics of battery storage have transformed so rapidly that industry veterans struggle to keep pace with the new reality. According to research released in December 2025 by energy think tank Ember, the cost of storing electricity with utility-scale batteries has fallen to just $65/MWha figure that fundamentally changes how solar power can be deployed. After a 40% fall in 2024 in battery equipment costs, its clear were on track for another major fall in 2025, said Kostantsa Rangelova, global electricity analyst at Ember. The economics for batteries are unrecognisable, and the industry is only just getting to grips with this new paradigm. Embers analysis assessed the cost of a complete battery storage system connected to the grid at only $125/kWh as of October 2025 for long-duration (four hours or more) utility-scale projects in global markets outside China and the U.S. Core battery equipment delivered from China now costs about $75/kWh, while installation and grid connection typically add approximately $50/kWh. The implications are profound. Embers researchers said if half of daytime solar generation is shifted to evening hours through storage, the $65/MWh storage cost adds roughly $33/MWh to solars total cost. Combined with the global average solar price of $43/MWh in 2024, this yields dispatchable clean electricity at approximately $76/MWhcompetitive with many conventional generation sources. Solar is no longer just cheap daytime electricity, now its anytime dispatchable electricity. This is a game-changer for countries with fast-growing demand and strong solar resources, Rangelova said. The energy storage industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. On one side, costs are plummeting so dramatically that utility-scale batteries can now deliver solar power around the clock at competitive prices. On the other, regulatory upheavalparticularly in the U.S.threatens to disrupt supply chains and slow deployment at the very moment storage is most needed. This complex landscape presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges for utilities, developers, and grid operators worldwide. As data centers proliferate, electrification accelerates, and aging thermal plants retire, the need for flexible, reliable power has never been greater. Energy storage is increasingly viewed not merely as a complement to renewable generation, but as the backbone of future grid design (Figure 1). This comprehensive analysis examines the forces reshaping the industry across multiple continents and explores what the coming years may hold. [caption id="attachment_250167" align="aligncenter" width="790"] Story continues Europe Charts a Course for Strategic Storage Deployment The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) released a comprehensive policy paper in December 2025 outlining market design principles for utility-scale storage deployment. The paper notes that while Europe currently has approximately 73 GW of energy storage capacity installedpredominantly pumped hydrothe continent will require roughly 200 GW by 2030 and at least 600 GW by 2050 to meet its flexibility needs. The ENTSO-E framework identifies three primary policy pathways for enabling storage investment: improving conditions for merchant investments, adapting capacity mechanisms to increase storage participation, and designing effective non-fossil flexibility support schemes. Storage systems not only reduce curtailment by shifting renewable generation from periods of excess supply to periods of higher demand but also deliver fast-responding balancing energy and high-value ancillary services, the ENTSO-E paper states. The organization emphasizes that storage can provide black-start capability and, depending on technology, mechanical or synthetic inertiaservices increasingly valuable as synchronous thermal generation retires. The European policy landscape presents both opportunities and complexities. Grid connection requests for battery storage have surged dramatically, with German TSOs collectively reporting about 230 GW of battery energy storage system (BESS) connection applications, while Italys Terna reports approximately 300 GW of storage connection requests. However, ENTSO-E notes that many of these requests remain speculative, submitted before firm investment decisions are made. Italy has emerged as a frontrunner, establishing a dedicated competitive mechanism called MACSE (Mercato per lApprovvigionamento di Capacita di Stoccaggio Elettrico) for procuring new utility-scale storage capacity. In September 2025, approximately 10 GWh of new BESS was procured at an average price below 13,000/MWh-year, with delivery starting in 2028 for a 15-year period. Germanys innovative Grid Booster projects represent another approach, using large-scale batteries as virtual transmission lines. In one example, TenneTs system deploys two 100-MW/100-MWh battery installations supplied by Fluence at geographically distinct substations in Schleswig-Holstein and Bavaria. When transmission line outages occur, the northern unit absorbs excess power while the southern unit injects energy, providing automated redispatch that maintains system stability without operator intervention. U.S. Storage Sector Navigates Regulatory Upheaval The American energy storage market has weathered considerable turbulence in 2025, with fluctuating tariffs and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, Figure 2) creating both uncertainty and, ultimately, relative clarity for the sector. While wind and solar projects face accelerated phase-outs of tax credits under the new legislation, energy storage emerged comparatively unscathedits credits not phased out until after 2033. [caption id="attachment_250168" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] OBBBA-signing-Trump-White-House 2. President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law on July 4, 2025. Energy storage retained its primary tax incentives, though the sector now faces stricter foreign-sourcing and domestic-content requirements. Source: The White House[/caption] Those who are driving renewable build out, including all of the AI [artificial intelligence] data center growth, have come to appreciate the role of baseload power and firm supply, explained a vice president at one of the worlds leading investment banks in an analysis by law firm Troutman Pepper Locke. This was a factor in OBBBA in that, while you saw a phase out for wind and solar tax credits, that is not the case for baseload power, including geothermal, nuclear, and battery storage. However, the OBBBAs Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) rules pose significant challenges for an industry heavily dependent on Chinese supply chains. These restrictions prevent entities linked to adversarial nations, particularly China, from accessing U.S. energy tax incentiveseither directly or indirectly. The FEOC rules are really handicapping the industry pretty significantly, Tom Cornell, CEO of battery storage system supplier Prevalon, a Mitsubishi Power Americas and EES joint venture, said in the Troutman Pepper Locke report. Theres just not enough time to move the supply chain that quickly, especially around the battery cells, so thats really our big concern, he said. Andrew Waranch, CEO of Spearmint Energy, took a more optimistic view in the report, noting that forward-thinking companies began preparing months before the regulations took effect. Our team took aggressive action in May 2024, six months before the election, he said. We started evaluating suppliers all over the world. Waranch traveled extensively to Europe, Japan, and Korea seeking alternative suppliers, and many manufacturers made similar contingency plans after witnessing tariffs impact on the solar industry. Beyond Lithium-Ion: The Search for Alternatives Supply chain pressures and the need for longer-duration storage are accelerating interest in technologies beyond conventional lithium-ion batteries (see sidebar). Antonio Baclig, CEO of Inlyte Energy, sees the current moment as an inflection point. Key Storage Technologies Compared Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). The most widely deployed lithium-ion chemistry for utility-scale and behind-the-meter battery energy storage, with typical system round-trip efficiency in the 85% to 90% range depending on design and operating conditions. Typical discharge duration for current grid-scale projects is 24 hours, though systems are increasingly configured for 16+ hours based on application needs. Supply chains for key materials and cell manufacturing remain significantly concentrated in China, even as regional diversification efforts and policies targeting tariff and Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) exposure gain momentum. Sodium-Ion. An emerging battery technology that uses more abundant materials, positioning it as a potential lower-cost alternative to lithium-based chemistries over the long term. Sodium-ion generally exhibits lower gravimetric and volumetric energy density than LFP, which can translate into larger system footprints and, at present, higher installed costs per kWh for many grid applications. Challenges related to voltage profile, calendar life, and temperature sensitivity require tailored battery management and power electronics strategies, and early commercial development and manufacturing activity is currently led by Chinese suppliers, with growing interest in other regions. Iron-Sodium (Sodium Metal Chloride). A long-duration storage approach that uses iron and salt-based electrochemistry (often described as sodium metal chloride or ironsodium) and has reported round-trip efficiencies in the 80%-plus range in recent third-party tests. Developers indicate that adding storage durationfrom 4 to 24 hoursprimarily involves scaling relatively low-cost active materials and balance-of-plant, which can limit incremental cost increases to well below the multiples typically seen when extending lithium-ion systems to very long durations, although independent cost data remain limited. The chemistrys operating mechanism and temperature regime significantly reduce the risk of classic lithium-ion thermal runaway, and at least one manufacturer has announced plans to start U.S. production lines with commercial ramp-up targeted by 2026. Flow Batteries. Electrochemical storage systems such as vanadium, zinc-bromine, and iron-chromium flow batteries store energy in liquid electrolytes, allowing energy capacity to scale largely with tank volume while power scales with stack size. Typical round-trip efficiencies for commercial systems fall in the roughly 65%80% range, trading some efficiency relative to lithium-ion for long cycle life, deep depth-of-discharge capability, and inherent safety advantages due to separation of energy storage media and power conversion components. These systems are primarily targeting 4- to 12-hour applications today, with the option to extend duration further by increasing electrolyte volumes where space and cost allow. Pumped Hydro Storage. A mature mechanical storage technology that shifts water between lower and upper reservoirs, and remains the dominant source of installed grid-scale storage capacity in many regions. In Europe, pumped hydro accounts for the bulk of installed storage capacityon the order of tens of gigawatts out of total storage capacity in the same rangeillustrating its central role in current long-duration storage portfolios. While it can provide multi-hour to multi-day duration, deployment is constrained by geography, environmental impacts, and long permitting and construction timelines that commonly span 610 years or more for new projects. Iron-Air and Hydrogen. Iron-air batteries and hydrogen-based storage (including electrolysis, storage, and reconversion via fuel cells or turbines) are being developed to deliver very long durations, often targeting 100-plus-hour applications, multi-day backup, and seasonal shifting of renewable energy. Both approaches typically exhibit lower round-trip efficiency than lithium-ion or LFPparticularly for hydrogen systems that involve multiple conversion stepsbut could offer very low levelized cost per kWh for infrequent, high-value discharge events if capital and fuel costs can be reduced at scale. Commercial deployment remains limited to pilot and early commercial projects, with significant research, demonstration, and policy support still needed to validate cost, durability, and system integration performance at scale. The driver for storage has fundamentally changed in the past year, Baclig explained in an exclusive interview with POWER. Rapid load growth is straining the existing grid and energy storage provides the flexibility to modify power flows and flatten load variation, allowing us to get more out of the grid we have. New energysolaris part of that, but firm capacity and flexibility are the strengths of storage. Inlyte Energy recently completed a factory acceptance test of its first full-scale iron-sodium battery storage system, witnessed by representatives from Southern Company at Inlytes UK facility. The system achieved 83% round-trip efficiency including auxiliariescompetitive with high-performance lithium-ion and substantially above the 40% to 70% range typical for other long-duration energy storage technologies. Installation at Southern Companys energy storage test site in Wilsonville, Alabama, is planned for early 2026. To win the future, we need abundant and secure supplies of energy in the U.S., and at the same time we need to make costs go down, not up, Baclig said in a statement to the press. We cant do that by building the same thing as China. We need to make better technologies, with batteries that are fundamentally lower cost, safer, and longer lasting. Baclig expressed skepticism about sodium-ion (Na-ion) technology as an alternative to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. Na-ion has a relative disadvantage compared to LFP due to lower energy density, he told POWER. This means that the overall system will cost more per kWh. It also has a very wide voltage profile that does not integrate as well with the common power electronics used for lithium ion. He noted that China already dominates the Na-ion supply chain, meaning even greater protectionist policies would be needed to build domestic U.S. capacity. The economics of extending duration represent a key advantage for some alternative chemistries. According to Baclig, The cost to make a 24-hour iron-sodium system is only slightly higher (<25%) than a 4-hour system, because the battery allows us to add more iron and salt active material into the existing vessel to achieve the higher energy. In contrast, achieving 24-hour duration with lithium-ion technology would cost nearly six times as much as a 4-hour system. The Winter Peaking Challenge Emerges A fundamental shift in grid planning is underway as utilities grapple with winter peaking challenges that differ substantially from traditional summer demand patterns. Baclig highlighted this emerging concern: The main difference between summer and winter peaking is the lack of significant, reliable daily solar energy that separates one day from the next to allow for storage recharge. Wind is relatively difficult to predict and rely on for daily energy. Major cold snaps tend to persist for multiple days at a time. The February 2021 Winter Storm Uri, which devastated the Texas grid, demonstrated the stakes involved. As climate volatility increases and heating electrification accelerates, the need for storage capable of multi-day discharge is becoming increasingly apparent in utility planning studies. Long-term studies for 2030 and beyond point to the growing importance of 10- to100-hour solutions to address resource adequacy, driven by winter peaking needs, Baclig said. Gigawatts of 24-plus-hour storage will be contracted by 2030 in the U.S., he predicted. Energy storage is essential for creating a reliable and flexible energy grid, Steve Baxley, Southern Companys energy storage and use research and development manager, said in Inlytes news release. As the grid evolves toward longer-duration storage, developing solutions that are both low-cost and safe is critical to ensuring affordable, dependable service for customers. Global Project Pipeline Accelerates Despite policy uncertainties, the global storage project pipeline continues to expand rapidly. Major announcements in December illustrate the breadth of deployment activity: Arizona. Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) acquired the 250-MW/1-GWh Beehive Battery Energy Storage System from EDF Power Solutions. Located in Peoria, Arizona, the project has a 20-year tolling agreement with Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) and is expected to reach commercial operation in the first half of 2026. With electricity demand rapidly increasing in the Southwest, we anticipate battery storage will play a critical role in powering innovation and economic growth, Tim Evans, partner and head of North America at CIP, said in a statement. Australia. e-STORAGE, part of Canadian Solar, will deliver a 204-MW/408-MWh alternating-current (AC) battery system for Vena Energys Tailem Bend 3 project in South Australia, targeted for operation in 2027. Separately, Wartsila announced its tenth Australian BESS projecta 100-MW/223-MWh system for renewable energy retailer Flow Power. The project, known as Bennetts Creek BESS, is located adjacent to the Morwell Terminal Station in Victoria, and will also provide frequency regulation services when operational in 2028. United Kingdom. Matrix Renewables signed a full engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) agreement with Tesla for a 500-MW/1-GWh standalone BESS in Eccles, Scotland (Figure 3)the companys first standalone storage project in the UK. Meanwhile, Jinko ESS announced expansion of its UK portfolio with a second 140-MWh phase, bringing combined deployment to 280-MWh. Although the location of the system was not disclosed, the initial press release noted the deal was with AGR Renewables and that the system was engineered specifically to handle challenging environmental conditions, including 10C temperatures, which can be found in high-latitude areas. [caption id="attachment_250169" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Matrix-renewables-render-eccles-project 3. This is a rendering of the 500-MW/1-GWh standalone BESS being constructed in Eccles, Scotland. Courtesy: Matrix Renewables[/caption] Northern Ireland. SSE took final investment decision on the 100-MW/200-MWh Derrymeen BESS in County Tyrone, with construction to follow in 2026. The project will be located beside the Tamnamore 275/110-kV substation, near Dungannon, and has secured a 10-year Capacity Remuneration Market contract beginning in October 2028. Africa. Jinko ESS secured 15 MWh of SunGiga liquid-cooled energy storage systems for deployment across 45 remote villages in Senegal, bringing reliable nighttime electricity to tens of thousands of residents in distributed off-grid applications. Data Center Growth Reshapes Storage Strategy The explosion of AI applications (Figure 4) is creating unprecedented electricity demand that is fundamentally reshaping how utilities and storage developers approach project planning. According to a report issued by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in July 2025, substantial load growth coupled with the retirement of firm power capacity could increase the risk of power outages by 100 times by 2030. [caption id="attachment_250170" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] artificial-intelligence-data-center-technology-envato 4. Inside a highdensity data hall, racks of servers push power demand to new highsunderscoring why gridconnected energy storage is essential to keep artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and wider electrification reliably online. Source: Envato[/caption] Data centers require very high up times and, as such, they need both [storage and solar], and they need short-term and long-term reliability, said Waranch of Spearmint Energy. Were seeing more and more RFPs [requests for proposals] from tech companies of all types, not just the big data companies. Baclig agreed that data center integration rules will become a major force shaping energy storage deployment. FERC [the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission] and DOE are actively taking up this topic, he told POWER. PJMs response to dwindling capacity reserve and rising capacity pricesdriven in large part by data center demandis a key region to watch, he said. The investment bank source interviewed by Troutman Pepper Locke noted that the data center industrys willingness to pay premium prices strengthens the case for storage even amid tariff-driven cost increases. Notably, the argument for battery storage is not just decarbonization-focused but also based on grid reliability concerns. Its not unreasonable to expect that there would be some appetite to continue to support it [battery storage] even if there are price increases, the investment bank source said. Looking Ahead: The Storage Landscape in 2030 Industry executives and analysts are cautiously optimistic about the sectors trajectory, even as significant challenges remain. The DOE projects that reaching future U.S. grid requirements will necessitate more than 225 GW of long-duration energy storage by 2050far beyond what Inlyte and other industry observers say current lithium-ion technologies can economically deliver. Baclig offered his prediction for the U.S. market: 8-hour duration battery storage will be standard for new projects and it will likely still be majority provided by LFP in 2030. However, long-duration energy storage, like iron-sodium battery storage, will constitute a growing share as the needs for infrequent winter peak responses of 24+ hours become clear in the evolving grid. In Europe, ENTSO-E emphasized that storage deployment must be targeted to system-relevant locations where flexibility delivers the highest value. Storage assets will be an essential element of the generation mix in any decarbonised power system, the organization concluded. To that end, it said conditions that allow private investors in these capital-intensive technologies to achieve a fair and predictable return should be established as a prerequisite for deployment. The path forward involves navigating policy uncertainty, supply chain restructuring, and rapidly evolving technology options. But the fundamental driversfalling costs, rising demand, and the essential role of flexibility in modern gridssuggest energy storage has moved from the periphery to the center of power system planning. The question is no longer whether storage will transform the grid, but how quickly that transformation will unfold. Aaron Larson is POWERs executive editor. Akbar Novruz Irans judiciary has confirmed that individuals detained in connection with last months nationwide protests will not be eligible for inclusion in the countrys amnesty list, Azernews reports. The announcement underscores Tehrans firm stance against those involved in the unrest. Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, head of Irans judiciary, said, I have instructed that convicts linked to security-related issues be excluded from the amnesty list. Those accused in the recent unrest will also not be included. The demonstrations erupted in late December, initially sparked by the sharp depreciation of Irans national currency. What began as economic protests in the capital, Tehran, quickly escalated into widespread anti-government demonstrations, spreading to cities and towns across the country. Clashes between protesters and police were frequent, with reports of violence on both sides. According to Iranian authorities, a total of 3,117 people, including members of the security force,s died as a result of the unrest. Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the scale of arrests and the treatment of detainees, highlighting reports of arbitrary detention and poor prison conditions. The governments decision to exclude protest-related detainees from amnesty comes amid ongoing international scrutiny over its handling of dissent. Analysts say the move signals Tehrans determination to maintain control and deter future large-scale demonstrations, even as economic pressures continue to fuel public discontent. The protests eventually subsided after several weeks, but the underlying grievances over economic instability and political freedoms remain unresolved, suggesting the potential for renewed tensions in the months ahead. This includes double-digit growth in biologic drug delivery, PIRWIC, advanced tissue regeneration, Pharmacy Automation, and high single-digit growth in APM. We delivered mid-single-digit growth across 90% of New Becton, Dickinson and Company's portfolio. Partially offset by 10% of our portfolio Alaris vaccines in China undergoing challenging market dynamics that were in line with our expectations. We delivered an adjusted gross margin of 53.4%, and adjusted EPS of $2.91 both of which were also ahead of our expectations on the strength of revenue performance and operational execution. Later this morning, we expect to close the combination of our life sciences business with Waters via a Reverse Morris Trust transaction. Tom Polen: Thank you, Sean, and good morning, everyone. Before we get started, I'd like to take a moment to welcome Sean to Becton, Dickinson and Company. We are very excited to have Sean join our team, and I look forward to partnering with him as we continue to communicate our strategy, performance, and growth opportunities. Turning to our Q1 performance, we delivered stronger than expected results which reflect our disciplined execution, including accelerated commercial initiatives and strengthening our key growth platforms. Revenues of $5.3 billion increased 0.4%. New Becton, Dickinson and Company grew 2.5%, with broad-based growth across the markets where we've been doubling down on investments. As a reminder, beginning October 1, we began operating under our previously disclosed new Becton, Dickinson and Company segment structure that includes Medical Essentials, Connected Care, Biopharma Systems, and Interventional, and a fifth Life Sciences segment comprised of Biosciences Diagnostic Solutions. The financials discussed here and included in the earnings release and 10-Q have been recast to reflect this reorganization. Reconciliations between GAAP and non-GAAP measures are included in the appendices of the earnings release and presentation. With that, I will turn it over to Tom. Tom Polen, Becton, Dickinson and Company's Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, and Victor Roach, Senior Vice President and Interim Chief Financial Officer. Before we get started, I want to remind you that we will be making forward-looking statements. You can read the disclaimer in our earnings release and the disclosures in our SEC filings on our Investor Relations website. Unless otherwise specified, all comparisons will be made on a year-on-year basis versus the relevant fiscal period. Revenue percentage changes are on an FX-neutral basis unless otherwise noted. Also, references to adjusted EPS refer to adjusted diluted EPS. Story Continues This is a significant milestone as we fully pivot to new Becton, Dickinson and Company and the next chapter of the company's growth. I want to thank both the Becton, Dickinson and Company and Waters team whose exceptional hard work and transaction experience are enabling us to close nearly two months ahead of schedule. We believe this transaction unlocks significant value for our shareholders through both participation in the New Waters entity and value creation in the new Becton, Dickinson and Company. As part of the transaction, we will receive a $4 billion cash distribution. I'm pleased to announce $2 billion will be deployed towards share repurchases through an ASR and $2 billion will be deployed towards debt pay down. Both are expected to be executed in the near term subject to market conditions. This is in line with our enhanced capital allocation strategy, which prioritizes share repurchases, reliable and growing dividends, and focused tuck-in M&A in targeted high-growth markets all designed to steadily increase return on invested capital. With the completion of our Life Sciences transaction, Becton, Dickinson and Company enters this next chapter as a far more focused pure-play medtech company. This transformation builds on several years of deliberate portfolio shaping. Including divesting three substantial non-core assets and the more than 20 strategic tuck-ins we've completed to strengthen our presence in some of the most attractive areas of healthcare. We recognized early on how the world of healthcare is changing rapidly. Providers everywhere are seeking partners who not only deliver high-quality products but who can help them transform care pathways. Improve outcomes, and reduce costs. As we've previously discussed, we've identified three key trends shaping the future of healthcare that have guided our portfolio strategy. These include one, the rise of smart connected devices, robotics, AI, and informatics that transform the cost and quality of care, two, the shift of care towards lower cost more convenient settings including outpatient facilities and the home, and three, rapid growth in technologies to address chronic disease. One of the fastest-growing segments in healthcare. Over the last several years, we've built multiple growth platforms each with billion-dollar plus potential, that position New Becton, Dickinson and Company squarely at the center of these trends. From our nearly $5 billion Connected Care business, with AI-driven advanced patient monitoring and connected medication management, to advanced pharmacy robotics, to leading platforms for biologic drug delivery at home, urinary incontinence, vascular disease, and tissue regeneration. New Becton, Dickinson and Company is positioned to lead in advancing the future of care. We have leading positions in more than 90% of the markets we serve, with over 90% of our revenues driven by recurring consumables. Every year, we manufacture more than 35 billion devices, that reach healthcare providers across more than 190 countries. Few companies in healthcare are as foundational to the daily delivery of care and that scale powers the strong free cash flow that underpins our strategy. While these trends guide where we innovate, and invest, Becton, Dickinson and Company excellence guides how we execute. Together, they shape our strategy for the new Becton, Dickinson and Company. Excellence unleashed, which is expressed through our three strategic priorities. Compete, innovate, and deliver. We've begun executing on these priorities enhancing the speed, agility of the company. I'll share some examples of where we're seeing early positive momentum. Compete reflects how we're elevating our commercial capabilities to win in the fastest-growing parts of the market and deliver an exceptional customer experience. We made significant progress across our commercial initiatives this quarter, including planned sales force expansion in APM, PI, and advanced tissue regeneration. While accelerating initiatives to make PureWick at home available for our veterans. We're also seeing broad-based commercial success across the company. The Pyxis Pro launch is off to a good start, with 85% of initial orders coming from competitive conversions. Alaris delivered our strongest quarter of competitive wins since the relaunch. Increasing our category share by approximately 100 basis points. Our medical essentials business also gained share across multiple categories and with major U.S. Health systems. Including in flush, picks, and catheters. Pharma Systems delivered significant GLP-one wins. With now over 80 novel and biosimilar GLP-one molecules contracted Becton, Dickinson and Company delivery devices. And BDI saw continued strength with notable conversions in oncology and peripheral arterial disease and strong adoption of recent launches of PURWIC Flex, and Galaflex. These results reflect the strong execution of our teams and the growing impact of our commercial initiatives. Turning to our second priority, innovate. Innovate focuses on how we bring high-impact solutions to market. Executing a pipeline that's now stronger, more focused, more productivity-driven than ever. This quarter, we strengthened our innovation pipeline by completing the reallocation of $50 million of central R&D to the businesses. To fund multiple new product innovations in our high-growth platforms. We also continued to scale Becton, Dickinson and Company excellence into R&D. Reducing development times and accelerating future launches by six to twelve months across several areas. In surgery, we entered several new markets. Increasing our served markets by over $550 million in categories that offer higher growth, higher margin, and long-term strategic value. This includes The U.S. Launch of Avatene Flowable, a next-generation flowable hemostat that strengthens our position in biosurgery and enters us into a nearly $400 million market growing approximately 5% annually. We also advanced our global wound irrigation portfolio, with the European launch of SurgiFor, a ready-to-use wound irrigation system that simplifies operating room workflows. In addition, we submitted SurgiFore Pulse to the FDA. A pulse lavage system that can expand Becton, Dickinson and Company's presence in this nearly $200 million market by approximately 40%. Finally, in connected care, HemoSphere Stream began targeted market release in The U.S. And Europe following October's 510 clearance. Stream's smart cable compatibility can expand its addressable market tenfold and early feedback has been very positive. Finally, our third priority, deliver represents our commitment to operational excellence, across safety, quality, delivery, and cash flow. As a result of the Life Sciences transaction, and the network consolidation initiative that we began in FY 2022, we've created a meaningfully simpler manufacturing network. Reducing our network by nearly half to under 50 global sites lowering costs, improving resiliency, and enabling scaled smart factories. We have actions underway to improve this even further. Becton, Dickinson and Company excellence continued to drive meaningful productivity improvements of 8% in the quarter. Contributing to gross margin and cash flow. Finally, we achieved good progress on the $200 million cost-out program communicated last quarter. Already executing actions representing $150 million or 75% of the target. With a clear line of sight to the balance. We are pleased with our strategic progress. Yet we recognize there's more work to do. This is an exciting moment for the new Becton, Dickinson and Company. As we focus actions and raise our standards to outcompete, outinnovate, and outdeliver. With that, I'll turn it over to Vitor. Vitor Roach: Thanks, Tom. Starting with revenue. Total company revenue of $5.3 billion grew 0.4% with 2.5% growth in UBD. In Medical Essentials, MDS performance reflects expected order timing dynamics and volume-based procurement in China that was partially offset by continued share gains in The U.S. In our Vascular Access Management portfolio. Within specimen management, solid growth in Becton, Dickinson and Company vacutainer portfolio in The U.S. Was offset by expected market dynamics in China, order timing, and a tough comparison to the prior year. Connected Care delivered solid mid-single-digit growth. Performance was led by APM which grew high single digits on strong volume across the portfolio. MMS, growth was led by pharmacy automation with double-digit growth in our LoRa platform. In our infusion business, growth was driven by sets which were up strongly on increased utilization against last year's fluid supply shortage. Alaris pumps performance was slightly ahead of our expectations despite the expected revenue decline due to tough comparison to the prior year. Biopharma systems grew low single digits with continued double-digit growth in biologics led by GLP-one. This was partially offset by lower demand for vaccine products in line with our expectation. Interventional delivered solid mid-single-digit growth. This includes high single-digit growth in UCC driven by double-digit growth in Purit. In surgery, we delivered mid-single-digit growth led by strong performance in our advanced tissue regeneration and infection prevention portfolios. Low single-digit growth in PI reflects strength in peripheral vascular disease and oncology partially offset by China market dynamics. Life sciences declined in the quarter. In The U.S. Results were impacted by U.S. Point of care headwinds, a difficult prior year comparison, and market dynamics in China. In VDB, growth was pressured by market dynamics in China, lower life science research funding, and a difficult compare from prior year licensing revenue. Turning to the P&L. Adjusted gross margin of 53.4% was down 140 basis points versus the prior year driven by approximately 170 basis points of tariffs, partially offset by productivity initiatives through BDX. Adjusted operating margin of 21.2% was down 240 basis points versus the prior year due to the impact of tariffs increased commercial investments in key growth areas. Despite these declines, both adjusted gross and operating margins were ahead of our expectations. Adjusted EPS of $2.91 was down 15.2% driven primarily by the impact of tariffs. However, earnings exceeded our expectations on the strength of both revenue performance and operational execution. Free cash flow was $548 million in the Free cash flow conversion improved 66% versus 59% in the prior year, driven by working capital discipline and capital efficiency. During the quarter, we returned approximately $550 million to shareholders. Including dividends and $250 million in share buybacks. We ended the quarter with net leverage of 2.9 times and remain committed to our 2.5 times long-term net leverage target. Moving to our fiscal '26 guidance for new Becton, Dickinson and Company. All guidance we are providing today is on a continuing operations basis, and reflects the expected closing of the combination of our life science business with Waters. Following the closing, the separated business will be treated as discontinued operations for the full fiscal year. Our guidance includes deployments of $4 billion cash distribution we will receive as part of the transaction. For fiscal 2026, we continue to expect new Becton, Dickinson and Company to deliver low single-digit revenue growth. Based on current spot rates, currency is estimated to be a tailwind to revenue of about 120 basis points. Moving down to the P&L, we continue to expect adjusted operating margin of about 25% inclusive of impact of tariffs. Interest other net is expected to be between $600 million and $620 million. Our adjusted effective tax rate is expected to be between 16-17%. Weighted shares outstanding for the full year are expected to be approximately 282 million shares. Given these considerations, we are establishing an adjusted EPS guidance for new Becton, Dickinson and Company in a range of $12.35 to $12.65. This reflects growth of approximately 6% at the midpoint including an impact of 370 basis points from tariffs. The net estimated impact of the closing of the waters transaction including the deployment of associated $4 billion cash distribution is approximately $2.4. Therefore, our adjusted EPS guidance for new Becton, Dickinson and Company remains operationally unchanged. As we think about fiscal 2026 phasing, we expect Q2 revenue growth of approximately 2%. Consistent with our full-year guidance assumption. With the balance of the year also expected to be within the low single-digit range. We expect Q2 adjusted EPS to be in the range of $2.72 to $2.82. Finally, we are pleased with our Q1 performance. However, with just one quarter behind us, we are maintaining a prudent approach to our guidance for new Becton, Dickinson and Company. With that, let's start the Q&A session. Operator, can you please assemble the queue? Operator: Absolutely. And at this time, Lastly, to provide optimal sound quality, Thank you. Our first question is coming from Travis Steed with Bank of America. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Travis Steed: Everybody. Congrats on the RMT and getting that done ahead of schedule. I wanted to ask about the guidance, both the Q2 revenue guide, the step down in Q2 and the EPS guide as well as kind of the full year, some of the assumptions on the cadence of the year and how you're going Q2 to the second half on both revenue and earnings? Tom Polen: Yes. Thanks for the question, Travis, good morning. So we're really pleased with the start of the year. And Q1 performance. I think you saw our team executed well and we saw strength across several of the high-growth areas of the portfolio. We can talk about those in just a bit. When it comes to Q2, nothing's fundamentally changed in our Q2 outlook. As you mentioned, the core growth driver supporting new Becton, Dickinson and Company growth in Q1 they all remain on, intact, and we feel really good about the trajectory of the business. Our Q2 outlook does reflect some modest timing benefits in biopharma systems and MMS. That we saw in Q1. And if you adjust for that, basically Q1 and Q2 are in line with each other. I think a few things we're really pleased to be starting the year at our full-year run rate. Q2 has no ramp versus Q1. And really importantly, there's no ramp first half to second half either. Right, which is a much better spot and something that we really wanted to have this year. That as you know we had that topic last year. And so just where we want to be, no ramp in the year, strong start to Q1 and executing, as you said, the RMT transaction ahead of schedule. Really excited about the new Becton, Dickinson and Company. Travis Steed: Great. Thanks a lot. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Patrick Wood with Morgan Stanley. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Patrick Wood: Fabulous. Thank you so much. Tom, maybe just a midterm one around the categories you're looking at. Obviously, this year, a bit of a transition year. There's a few things like China VBP and Alaris that are kind of affecting numbers. But I guess as you look across NewCo Becton, Dickinson and Company's categories, is there any structural change that happened recently or in the past that would preclude you from sort of hitting that normalized mid-single-digit growth rate as a general framework? Anything it's changed way or the other that would make you feel better or worse about that and how you feel about that? Thanks. Tom Polen: Yes. Patrick, and thanks for the question. Absolutely not. We feel really good about our portfolio. As we talked about, we've been extremely active over the last several years in very purposely reshaping our portfolio. We've done three significant divestures starting with diabetes, obviously, Mueller and most recently, our life science business. We've very purposely brought in 20 tuck-in acquisitions, everything from our Parata pharmacy automation to APM and a number of others. All reshaping the portfolio in those high-growth areas that we've been talking about that we identified some time ago. Today, as you mentioned, we do have some known headwinds that are in 10% of our portfolio. The fundamentals across the remaining 90% remain very strong and they continue to perform at a solid mid-single-digit growth. We're continuing to lean in behind those areas. You're seeing us put meaningful commercial investment behind those, the $30 million of incremental sales investments, all 100% on track. You heard that update on the call, investing behind areas like VA the Veterans Administration, PureWick now that's purely fully reimbursement for veterans. Launching a number of plastic surgery products in Europe and Brazil. Expanding our sales forces by 15% in PI and APM, Right? All investing behind those growth areas. Which is again, you saw strong growth double-digit growth, in fact, this past quarter in areas like PURWIC, Biologics, tissue reconstruction, and others, you saw high single-digit growth in areas like APM, Pharmacy automation grew double digits in the quarter. So, again, we feel really good. Those aren't slowing down. We don't expect them to we could expect them to continue strong through the year. We've got a great innovation pipeline that's going to continue to fuel growth in those over the next several. Patrick Wood: Love it. Thank you. Thanks for the question. Operator: Thank you. Our next comes from Larry Biegelsen with Wells Fargo. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Larry Biegelsen: Good morning. Thanks for taking the question. Congrats, Tom, on the closing of the Waters deal. Tom, maybe we could talk about the other the 10% of the portfolio that's not growing mid-single digits. China VBP, what's the expected impact in fiscal 2026? When did these the vaccine headwind lap in farm systems? And any change to the Alaris expectation this year and next year that you gave us on the last call? Tom Polen: Yeah. Thanks for the questions, Larry. Everything's playing out as we expected it in Q1, and we expect that to continue for the balance of the year. China was in line with our expectations in the quarter. Vaccines were relatively in line with expectations in the quarter as was Aleris. Anything, we're seeing some really strong competitive momentum in Aleris I think as we shared on the prepared remarks, we had a record in new competitive wins in the quarter. We gained about a full point of share just in the quarter. Those take some time to come through in our run rate as we implement those. And see the consumables revenue pickup. But in terms of actual contract signed deals closed, was a really strong quarter in Aleris, right, which is exactly what we want to see. We're coming to the tail end of, of course, remediation, So our whole sales force is focused now on competitive gains, just as we said. And so we're pleased with that. Vaccines, on the counter side of vaccines, we continue to see biologics grow very solidly. Vaccines, we expect that will continue to play out for the year as we expected and we'll have to look at that in as we go into 2027. Certainly, it will be a smaller portion of our revenue and biologic will be a larger portion of our revenue. So the it's absolute impact in 2027. Likely will not be anywhere near what it would be in 'twenty six, but we'll continue to monitor that very closely. And China, the market, I was just there at the January. I think we've shared before that we expect that VOB will have gone through 80% of our portfolio by the 2026. We don't see any change to that assumption. And we do continue to see positive volume growth. Happening in China despite the price compression in the few areas that we've discussed where VOBP is happening. So overall, we said at the beginning of the year when we gave guidance for the old Becton, Dickinson and Company we expected those combined areas to be about two fifty basis points of headwind in the full year, and that's consistent with what we outlined. And how we think about it going forward. Larry Biegelsen: Thank you. Operator: Thank you. Next question comes from Robbie Marcus with JPMorgan. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Robbie Marcus: Great. Good morning and thanks for taking the questions. I'll add my congratulations on the RMT going effective today. Two quick ones for me. I'll ask them both upfront. One, just on second quarter, it's the easiest comps of the year. Both on a one and a two-year stack basis. So a lot of people just wanted to get help on why 2% is the right starting point for fiscal 2Q and any considerations there? And then as we get to the 25% operating which I think is a touch better than people were thinking, You know, any one-time considerations or TSAs, MSAs, anything we should be aware of as we try and build up our models to get there? Thanks a lot. Vitor Roach: I'll turn that to Vitor. Hi, Ravi. This is Vitor. So regarding Q2, so first, I think we were very pleased with Q1 performance. I think we started the year solidly, and it puts us in very sound grounds for the rest of the year. But for the Q2, Tom mentioned on his remarks, nothing fundamentally changed on Q2. We have our core drivers supporting the new Becton, Dickinson and Company growth in Q1 actually continuing in Q2 and we expect that trajectory to continue for the rest of the year as well. In Q2, the only thing that happened is slight change timing situations in both farm systems and MMS. But if you normalize for those factors, you actually had a little bit of a more normalized growth between Q1 and Q2. I think the most important piece is that nothing fundamentally changed. On our Q2. We feel very confident about the numbers going forward as well. Tom Polen: Both very much in line with our full-year guidance. Vitor Roach: Exactly. Very aligned with our full-year guidance. And from a margin perspective, there is no specific one-timers that we are expecting. So we are still holding the 25% as we committed before. And this is in the basis of our margin performance, which is the strongest execution of our Becton, Dickinson and Company excellence and also the favorable mix that we are driving through intentional investments in strategic areas like high growth, high margin areas like APM, UCC, surgery among others. So, we feel good about the 25 and there is nothing specific that changes the number from 25. Tom Polen: And Ravi, maybe just to share a little bit more color on the margin performance. Right? We're continuing to be very focused. Our innovation pipeline the areas where we're putting commercial investment are all both the innovation pipeline has a notably higher gross margin than our average portfolio and the areas that we're putting commercial behind that we've talked about also have a notably higher gross margin than our broader portfolio. So those help fuel margin. At the same time, obviously, Becton, Dickinson and Company Excellence in our operations organization is continuing to gain momentum. Right? We've been at it for a couple of years. We're still in relatively early innings. Saw us talk about 8% productivity improvements in the quarter. That's world-class levels. Really proud of the teams there and how they're executing. Also heard us talk about, I think, the first time, share some statistics around our plant network. We started the last phase of Becton, Dickinson and Company's strategy, We talked about investing behind the network. Simplification. And you're seeing the outputs of that combined with obviously the separation of our Life Science business. More than cutting our manufacturing network in half. So when we started the journey several years ago, we had a little over 90 manufacturing plants. Right? We're under 50 today. And so these are fewer plants more scaled plants, where we're getting more leverage more costs being spread over higher volume in these sites, also all helping to contribute to our operating margin. So that's been something systematic that we've been working on. We're really pleased with that. And when you think about that, that drop from nearly 90 to under 50 plants, about half of that, over 20, that's over 20 plant closures and a little over 20 plants going to Waters as part of the RMT, but a dramatically simplified network that we're investing behind as we go forward as well. It just helps us further on the op margin. Thanks a lot. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Joanne Wuensch with Citibank. Good morning and congrats on getting to this phase. Two questions. The first one has to do more macro, if you're seeing anything in the quarter on things like nursing shortages, weather impacts, or anything on the ACA? And then I was hoping you could maybe flush out some of the contracts you have in for the GLPs and if there's anything noteworthy you can share with us there. Thank you. Tom Polen: Morning, Joanne, and thanks for the question. So utilization as we think about just the broader hospital demand trends, we continue to see steady utilization levels in line with hospital surveys that we monitor. Say the CapEx environment, all also see remaining solid. We haven't seen any weather effects through January and into February. Then I would just say, overall, too, as we think about utilization, over 90% of our revenue is consumables, particularly for New Becton, Dickinson and Company, which provides a very resilient base. And the portion that is CapEx, we're seeing that solid as well. You saw that come through very clearly in MMS. If you exclude kind of the dynamic of Alaris and the Grover MMS grew nearly 6% in the quarter and that includes CapEx there. So really strong Pharmacy automation is actually one of our largest percent businesses of CapEx, and it grew double digits, 10% in the quarter. And that's a mix of both strong CapEx purchases in Europe and in The U.S. There as we think about pharmacy automation. Again, that's a big labor savings play and that's a big part of our CapEx spending as well as helping where there are shortages of pharmacists or other clinicians. A lot of our solutions help in that environment. When it comes to GLP-1s, we're in a really good position there. Certainly, it's a modest portion of our business today, about 2% of our revenue. But it's a high-growth area and certainly a growth opportunity as we look forward. Today, we support some of the largest molecules that are on the market. We continue to have a very high win rate on both new novel molecules that are coming to market and on biosimilars. We updated some information today on the call. We now have more than 80 novel and biosimilar GLP-1s contracted in our devices. And we're continuing to see momentum in injectables. Obviously, there's always the question in the news. I know some investors of ours have asked a question about how do we think about oral injectables. Reality is, is we're seeing continued momentum in injectable GLP-1s. We continue to see the largest pharma companies putting billions of dollars some very recent announcement in multibillion-dollar investments in injectable capacity, including in The U.S. And people really view that, orals as complementary rather than displacing injectables at scale. So we're continuing to be bullish on that and continue to focus on having a very high win rate on both new novel and biosimilar molecules in the space. Thanks for the question. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Matt Taylor with Jefferies. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Matt Taylor: Hi, thanks for taking the question. Tom, as a follow-up to that question, I think previously you had talked about the potential for the GLP one franchise within Becton, Dickinson and Company to get to about a $1 billion by the end of the decade. Do you still feel the same way about the trajectory long term given all these deals that you signed? And maybe you could address that and where it is now, where and where it is, today. Tom Polen: Yeah. We feel we still feel very much with that on track. Our growth rate continues to be very strong as we share double digits. We're nearing that halfway point. On that journey now. So and again, you haven't seen the number of new novel molecules coming to market that will be over the next several years. And of course, as you look at the back half of this decade, you start really hitting stride on the biosimilars. And when we talk about our biosimilar portfolio, it's very broad geographically. So our biosimilar portfolio includes biosimilars across China, Southeast Asia, Europe, Latin America. Canada, and The U.S. It's a very broad global. And so as you think about certain patent expiries, varying geographically, have good exposure across those different time points. Thank you for the question. Matt Taylor: Thank you, Tom. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Matt Miksic with Barclays. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Matt Miksic: Good morning, Tom. Thanks so much for taking the questions and congrats on getting to the starting line, I guess, is one way to think about it. So when you mentioned just a question on the innovate part of your plan. And investments you're making in R&D. Maybe some sense of when I understand the commercial investments this year execute and compete, but when do you think we'll start to see things come through the pipeline or maybe come through at a faster pace from these R&D investments that you're making in the kind of Innovate segment of strategy? Tom Polen: Yes. Thank you. You're going to see those continue to come through. This year, we've got a lot of great launches happening. We talked about some of the very recent ones that are just ramping up like Pyxis Pro. We couldn't be more pleased with how that one's been going as we mentioned, really strong competitive share gain. Chemosphere Stream just launching now. You're going to continue to see throughout this year and into next 2027 is quite a big year for launches as is 2028. Across the portfolio. At the same time, we've shared we've put $50 million that we took from efficiencies in and shifting from corporate expenses, moving that into R&D. And we just started quite a few new R&D programs as well. This fiscal year, not only what we would normally start with our traditional increase, but that bolus of money starting more projects in tissue regeneration. Additional biologic drug delivery some adjacencies in PureWick that we're really excited about. Investments and also in the connected care space. The other thing that we're seeing some really positive, still early, but very positive results. As we shared, we're taking Becton, Dickinson and Company excellence commercial and into innovation. And we actually have some dedicated resources now that go across working with our different R&D teams doing kaizens. To accelerate our innovation timelines. We've been doing quite a few of those. We started that really in late last year. We've been doing those throughout Q1. And we've seen a number of R&D projects where we've accelerated timelines to launch by six and even up to twelve months on that. So we're going to continue to get after that. We've got a goal to do all of our key development programs. We're focused on driving those Kaizens and accelerations. This year. They're all scheduled with the teams. And so that capability and that momentum that we saw in operations through Becton, Dickinson and Company Excellence we're really pleased with some of the early signs that we're seeing taking those same processes and systems into innovation and also into our commercial organization. So we'll continue to provide updates on that as it progresses. And we'll look forward to sharing more through the year and eventually at an Analyst Day. In the future on that innovation pipeline. Thanks for the question, Matt. Matt Miksic: Thank you. Operator: We will move next with Shagun Singh with RBC Capital Markets. Please go ahead. Shagun Singh: Thank you so much. I just wanted to get a better handle on the three areas of headwinds, Alaris Vaccines In China, It seems like vaccines in China will hopefully be behind us this year. But how should we think about Aleris beyond this year? Do you get to that 5% or mid-single digits next year? Or will Aleris be a headwind? And then just very quickly on M&A. Is there an opportunity for you guys to be more aggressive under the new Becton, Dickinson and Company strategy on M&A to help raise the weighted average market growth here? Thank you for taking the questions. Tom Polen: Yes. Thank you for the question, Shagun. So on vaccines and China, I think you described those. Aleris, we communicated at the end of as we gave the guide to start this year, the Holco Becton, Dickinson and Company guide. We do expect Aleris to step up in 27, 100 basis points headwind this year stepping up to a 200 basis point headwind in 2027. That's just again as we've fully completed the remediation. Expect to actually be at record share levels. As that dynamic is happening, it's just the grow over from the remediation. That's happening there. But expect to be in stronger than ever competitive position on Aleris. As it comes to tuck-in M&A, so as we've communicated, for new Becton, Dickinson and Company, we're very focused on a balanced capital allocation strategy. We're pleased obviously this year between the $2 billion plus share buyback that we did, $250 million buyback that we did in Q1. Plus the $2 billion buyback that we're doing now, the through the ASR, but that's significant return of capital to our shareholders. We are, as part of that balanced capital allocation strategy, we have communicated that we're focused on focused tuck-in M&A. Our focus remains on tuck-in M&A not transformational M&A. And we do have a robust pipeline from that perspective. When it comes to the criteria for those tuck-in M&A, they remain unchanged versus what we've shared in the past. That means accretive to revenue growth and accretive from an EPS perspective. We're not looking at dilutive M&A. And we do see with the new Becton, Dickinson and Company, there's a number of very attractive high-growth sectors that we're in that we see the opportunity to supplement that WAMGR with tuck-in M&A. So more to come on that, but we'll continue to do it in a focused way and very much aligned with that balanced capital allocation strategy that we've communicated. Thanks for the question. Shagun Singh: Thank you. Tom Polen: Our next question the way, just for those who had congratulated earlier on, the deal with Waters is officially closed now. Operator? Operator: Thank you. Our next question comes from Rick Wise with Stifel. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Rick Wise: Good morning. Hi, Tom. Tom, you seem very well set up for the rest of the year. I think Vitor said it, and I apologize that these were not the exact words. But I think you said prudent guidance for fiscal 2026. You're well set up for a stable, predictable outlook without the usual second-half ramp we've seen in the past. That's great. And sort of a variation, a little bit of Matt's question. I can't believe you're investing in Salesforce the way you are. The M&A you've done, the focus on faster growth. Businesses, the cost-cutting. My question is, if there would be some upside to this thoughtfully prudent guidance, in the next two, four, six quarters. You think it would be from all the above? Is it more likely from the new products? Is it more likely to come from the expanded sales efforts? Is it the some of the growth drags are a little less. Just any color on how we should just reflect on that? And just as since this is not exactly one question, I'll ask at a half. When are you gonna where are you with your CFO search announcement timing and maybe talk to us a little bit about what you're looking for in your new partner. Thank you so much. Tom Polen: Yes. Thank you for the questions. So when it comes to the CFO search, continue that is well underway, and we'll look forward to providing an update when that complete. In the meanwhile, of course, Vitor is doing a great job stewarding the company and obviously doing a great job here on the call. So more to come on that. But we're running a thoughtful process focused on, you know, continuity of execution and financial discipline. And obviously, it's a really important moment in the company's evolution, and we're going to make sure we get the right person there. When it comes to upsides, guidance for the year, Look, again, we're really pleased with how we started the year. As we think about the areas that we're investing behind, those areas of high growth and higher margin urinary incontinence pharmacy automation, connected care, APM. Tissue regeneration, biologics, right? Those are the areas that we're putting our investments behind, both commercially and disproportionately from an R&D perspective. And so those are areas that could be natural areas of opportunity for us. I think, you know, as Mike Feld now also as chief revenue officer, who's been running the Life Science segment, essentially as of today. He's now full-time in that role. We see opportunity the reason we created that role, it's never existed in the history of Becton, Dickinson and Company, is we've been very good commercially. You don't get to our category-leading shares in 90% of the markets in which we compete without being good commercially. We think there's another level of performance that we can reach, just like we've always been good operationally. But we're reaching and we're executing at levels that we've never executed at before operationally. We view that same opportunity exists commercially, And when we execute that, that will deliver higher growth. We're convinced of that. And so more to come there. As Mike's now fully in that role, we'll provide more exposure to our investors on the programs that he's executing. It not only has to do with sales force expansion, but we've changed compensation plans for our selling organization around the world going into this year. We're putting in new tech stacks for our sales teams to help them be more effective. We're optimizing our management systems and processes with our selling organization, and Mike's leading that, working with our teams around the world. So, again, like we've seen in operations, we believe that there's opportunities, meaningful opportunities, to help accelerate growth as well through that commercial excellence. And complementing that with our innovation pipeline, the growth areas that we've been focusing on and, of course, complementary tuck-in M&A over time as well. So thanks for the question, Rick. Rick Wise: Thank you, Tom. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Josh Jennings with T. P. Cowen. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Josh Jennings: Hi, good morning. Thanks for taking the questions and congratulations on officially breaking through the tape there. On the Waters transaction. Wanted to just get help thinking about the pricing environment hospitals, demands for concessions versus whether that's stepped up and just with all the innovation that's on tap for from Becton, Dickinson and Company, you know, can that help drive price premiums and pricing be a tailwind in fiscal 2026 and into the out years and help with organic revenue growth and gross margin expansion. Thanks for taking the question. Tom Polen: Yeah. Thanks for the question, Josh. So we continue to see, I'd say, a stable pricing environment, you know, relative there's always pressure from our customers for pricing. That's something that we've, you know, obviously navigated for quite some time. We're very focused on, obviously, articulating and delivering value to our customers and outcomes, both clinical outcomes and financial outcomes through the technologies that we provide. Pricing what we're seeing so far in Q1, details will come out further in the 10-Q that will be filed later today. But overall, pricing generally flat to slightly positive. That's up a little over 50 basis points ex China. Positive price. Offset by the pricing dynamic that we see in China. As we think about that going forward, we expect to continue to have positive pricing in the rest of the world. And as China VOBP abates as we move into 2027, we would expect and beyond that pricing dynamic to continue to be more of a positive for us as we go forward as VOBP lessens, from that perspective. I think as we think about new product innovations and pricing there, we're entering into a lot of new product categories with our products, probably more so than ever before. Historically, we've done a lot of serial innovations where we're upgrading base products. We're continuing to do that in a number of cases, but more so than ever before we're entering into new spaces. I think actually all of the new products that we shared today are brand new spaces for us. Avatene Flowable, brand new biosurgery space for us that we've never been in before, a $400 million market. Surgiaphor, which is complementary to Chloroprep, but it's for once you're in the surgery. Chloroprep's before the surgery. That's a whole new market for us. And hemosphere stream, is really extending the hemisphere platform into the general ward. Expanding it to about 30,300 monitors, that we don't tap into today, so a brand new market. Space for us with Hemisphere Stream. So there, we make sure that pricing equals the value of the products and what they're delivering to our customers. I think the other thing is in areas, and we have a number of new products launching in pharmacy automation for example, for central fill. Or the Pyxis Pro, which, by the way, Pyxis Pro launched at a premium. To the base Pyxis. But it's all associated with very clear data that we have. That it's delivering greater economic value to our customers, right? Those areas, for example, it's meaningful helping with nursing workflow by reducing drug shortages on the floor. Or in the case of pharmacy automation, it's reducing labor costs associated with preparing medications and pills. And it's enabling many places, let's say like online pharmacies that are delivering to your home, for them to do that in warehouses, and they're starting from scratch, they never even hired in the first place there. They go straight to the robots and automation and the warehouses are delivering. Medications to home and able to do that in a cost-effective manner. So I think our solutions are well tailored. To this environment that we're in and expect we'll continue to see. As is our innovation pipeline. Thanks for the question. Operator: Thank you. We will move next with Jason Bedford with Raymond James. Please go ahead. Your line is open. Jason Bedford: Good morning and congrats on the progress here. So I had a question on OLERIS. Was down year over year, but you mentioned you gained 100 basis points of category share. I'm guessing the share commentary is on an installed base basis. So my questions are, one, is your expectation that you continue to gain share at this rate? And then two, just to level set what is your share position today? Thanks. Tom Polen: Yes. Thanks, Jason, for the question and bringing us home here on the call. Our share position is nearing 60%. Overall. And yes, you're right. So obviously, through the remediation efforts, that we've been doing over the last three years, we've been upgrading about 20% of the market per year. And so as this is now coming to the tail end of that and peaks last year, you physically can't even if we took all competitive share that's opening up, this year, we still would see declining growth and the same dynamic would happen next year just because of what it means for us in terms of the scale in which we just upgraded the marketplace. But yes, are pleased with our performance on share capture in the first quarter. We have a very strong funnel as we go forward. And we continue to innovate very rapidly on Alaris, not only on the current platform, we've had of course, had new 510s approved since the original one that allowed us to relaunch the platform. But we're continuing to bring new features to Alaris. We have another one planned for submission late this year. That will add further new features to that. And of course, we also continue to have it and we've shared in the past a whole new Alaris platform which is moving forward very nicely through our innovation pipeline. And we'll look forward to sharing more details on in the future. But we feel good about Alaris feel good about our overall connected medication management platform. It's great to have Alaris and our new Pyxis Pro out there together as well, as we also shared Pyxis had a really strong competitive quarter in Q1 with the launch of Pyxis Pro. And has a really strong pipeline as we look forward as well. So thank you for the question, Chase. Jason Bedford: Thank you. Operator: And that will conclude today's question and answer session. At this time, I would like to turn the floor back over to Tom Polen, for any additional or closing comments. Tom Polen: Okay. Thank you, operator. In summary, we delivered solid Q1 results that exceeded our expectations we believe positions us well to achieve our full-year guidance. As we navigate transitory headwinds in contained areas within our business, Our broader portfolio continues to perform well and we're actively investing in high-growth, high-margin areas. To our Biosciences and Diagnostic Solutions colleagues transitioning to Waters, want to thank you for your passion, professionalism, and the tremendous contributions you've made to Becton, Dickinson and Company. You're stepping into an exciting new opportunity with a strong growth-driven life science leader, and we're proud of all you've accomplished and wish you every success in this next chapter. Of course, with the completion of the transaction this morning, we're very excited to fully pivot to our strategy for the new Becton, Dickinson and Company. We look forward to updating you on our progress next quarter. Thank you all for your time today. Operator: Thank you. This does conclude this audio webcast. On behalf of Becton, Dickinson and Company, thank you for joining today. 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See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 9, 2026. This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Becton Dickinson BDX Q1 2026 Earnings Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool It's getting harder for average Americans to make ends meet and still find a way to save. 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Friday's adjustment significantly exceeds the previous largest negative difficulty drop since 2021: a roughly 7.5% decline in June 2025 caused by summer heatwave-related hashrate curtailments, which itself had been the biggest drop since the China ban. Bitcoin's mining difficulty also dropped one year ago in early Feb. 2025. The crypto market has steadied after last week's sell-off, with Bitcoin posting a double-digit rebound even as analysts caution the rally may not be sustained. The leading crypto is up 12% from Fridays low of $62,822 and is currently trading at $70,998, according to CoinGecko data. The bounce coincides with an improvement in U.S. investor appetite. The Coinbase Premium index, which measures the difference between Bitcoins price on Coinbase and Binance, has surged over 70%, rising from -0.23% on Friday to -0.06% as of the early Asian trading on Monday, per CoinGlass data. A rising premium suggests renewed buying interest from U.S. investors. The Fear & Greed Index hitting an extreme low of 5 suggests this bounce is a powerful short-covering rally and a technical reaction to an oversold market washout. Ryan Yoon, senior analyst at Seoul-based Tiger Research, told Decrypt. A closer look at the derivatives metrics suggests the move is being driven by bearish traders exiting their positions rather than fresh bullish conviction per Velo data. Aggregated open interestthe total number of open derivatives contractshas declined, while the cumulative volume delta has turned positive. Such a combination typically indicates that investors are primarily closing short positions. This rally is mostly short covering and a short squeeze after the capitulation flush, Andri Fauzan Adziima, research lead at Bitrue, told Decrypt. Open interest deleveraging cleared longs, spot CVD turned up, and Coinbase premium improved, but it's relief mechanics, not fresh demand. A short squeeze occurs when traders who have bet against an asset are forced to buy it back to limit losses as the price rises, thereby further fueling the rebound. Crypto Sentiment Sinks to Lowest Level in 3.5 Years Still, experts remain cautious, noting the underlying demand may not be sustainable. The relief rally is a post-crash dead-cat bounce or a classic relief after heavy liquidations and panic, Bitrues Adziima said. The uptick has no real sustained demand yet as the Coinbase premium index remains negative and macro headwinds persist. That macro environment has seen a slight improvement, however, with Asian equities rallying after Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis landslide election win. The Nikkei 225 shot up 5% on the news, easing some regional risk-off pressure. Whats next? Analysts see the short-term bounce as technically driven but believe the long-term trajectory remains tied to broader macro conditions. We remain optimistic that a rebound may happen this year as institutional adoption advances while global regulators enable friendlier policies for RWAs and stablecoins, Nick Ruck, director of LVRG Research, told Decrypt. The South Korean crypto exchange Bithumb says it will cover $9 million worth of losses with its own funds after a botched promotional event saw it hand out $40 billion worth of Bitcoin to its domestic customers on Friday. But financial regulators are taking a dim view of the so-called fat finger error, and have launched an on-site inspection, South Korean newspaper Kookmin Ilbo reported. Their ire has been stoked by the fact that Bithumb was reportedly on the verge of implementing a system that would have prevented the gaffe but instead chose to prioritise other matters. The exchanges promotions team had intended to send a total of $423 in Korean won to 249 customers who took part in a lucky draw-type giveaway. However, the team erroneously selected Bitcoin as the unit type when sending the rewards to this group of customers. As a result, each of the customers received thousands or millions of dollars worth of Bitcoin instead. While Bithumb was able to freeze trading shortly after and convince the vast majority of the recipients to return the Bitcoin, a small number of customers liquidated their coins or traded them for other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum. Bithumb told Chosun Ilbo it is yet to receive 125 Bitcoin, worth around $9 million, from a small group of recipients. The exchange said it was prepared to write off these losses, South Korean media outlet TokenPost reported on February 8. The fact that a single error in setting an event reward unit can destabilise an entire crypto exchange soberly demonstrates the current state of our systems and processes, Hwang Seung-wook, Vice President of Bithumbs Exchange Business Division, wrote in an email to Bithumb employees. Rather than blaming a specific individual for their mistakes, we will move to eliminate the lax processes that fail to prevent such errors. The error comes at a sensitive time for Bithumb, which is aiming to become the first South Korean crypto exchange to go public in the United States this year. Earlier this month, South Koreas consumer protection watchdog announced the launch of a probe into Bithumbs marketing claims. Compensation plans The incident sparked a massive Bitcoin price drop at the exchange, and Bithumb said it would compensate all users affected by this, too. Customers who sold Bitcoin at an abnormally low price at the time of the incident will receive the full amount of the sale plus an additional 10%, the exchange said. Bithumb also said it would allow traders to buy and sell coins commission-free for seven days, beginning February 9. Block Inc. (XYZ), the payments company run by Jack Dorsey, may reduce its workforce by as much as 10%, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Hundreds of employees at the bitcoin (BTC)-supporting owner of Cash App and Square have been told their jobs are at risk, Bloomberg said. The reviews are part of a broader overhaul of the Oakland, California-based company's business, it said. In addition to the payment apps, which allow individuals and businesses to transact in bitcoin, Block has Bitkey, a bitcoin self-custody hardware wallet, and Proto, a suite of bitcoin mining products and services. Its Spiral unit builds and funds open-source projects advancing bitcoin adoption. The company introduced a 12,000-employee cap in 2023 and reiterated its commitment to the number in its third-quarter earnings report. It had fewer than 11,000 in November, Bloomberg said. Shares in the company have dropped 14% this year while the S&P 500 index, which it joined in July, rose 1.27%. The stock lost 23% in 2025. Block is due to post fourth-quarter earnings on Feb. 26. Adjusted earnings are forecast to come in at $403 million, or 68 cents a share, Bloomberg said. The company posted adjusted EPS of 71 cents in fourth-quarter 2024. The company did not respond to an emailed request for comment sent outside regular U.S. business hours. Blue & Co., the US-based accounting and advisory firm, has acquired Texas-based D & Co., effective 1 February 2026. D & Co., formerly known as Durbin & Co., is a full-service accounting and advisory firm that offers healthcare reimbursement consulting services. As per the terms of the deal, D & Co. will be integrated into Blue & Co. and will continue to operate from offices in Lubbock, Dallas, Fort Worth and Waco. The transaction brings more than 40 D & Co. employees into Blue & Co., adding capabilities in healthcare reimbursement, hospital and clinical consulting, healthcare audits, projections and financial advisory services. A group of D & Co. leaders will join Blue & Co. as directors. The team comprises Brent Fuller, Tommy Davis, Steven Thummel, Andrew Castillo, Shonna Cannaday and Aaron Milligan. Fuller has more than 30 years in Medicare reimbursement, advising acute care and cancer hospitals, academic medical centres and other specialised providers. Davis brings over 25 years in accounting and consulting with a primary focus on healthcare, while Thummel has more than 23 years in healthcare auditing for hospitals, long-term care facilities and community health centres. Castillo has upwards of 22 years in audit and consulting across healthcare, government, not-for-profit, construction and manufacturing. Cannaday offers over 20 years of accounting experience, including 19 years in healthcare reimbursement. Milligan has spent more than 19 years at D & Co., specialising in financial audits, reporting and cost report preparation. Blue & Co. managing director Brad Shaw said: We have had a long-standing relationship with D & Co. for over 15 years and knew that they would be a great fit for Blue when the time was right. This expansion represents our shared belief in putting people first and delivering high-quality, responsive service to our clients. D & Co. Partner Tommy Davis added: Blue & Co. is a people-focused firm that will allow us to provide additional top-of-the-line services to our clients while continuing to provide our teams with an exceptional work culture. "Blue & Co. expands into Texas with acquisition of D & Co." was originally created and published by International Accounting Bulletin, a GlobalData owned brand. We came across a bullish thesis on Burford Capital Limited on Valueinvestorsclub.com by zbeex. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on BUR. Burford Capital Limited's share was trading at $9.48 as of January 28th. BURs trailing and forward P/E were 24.52 and 9.68 respectively according to Yahoo Finance. Investments, Finance Investments, Finance Burford Capital Limited provides legal finance products and services worldwide. BUR present a highly asymmetric investment opportunity with potential for 3x upside and a strong margin of safety. Trading at roughly $9/share, BUR is priced near single-digit P/E on normalized earnings despite a 15-year track record of mid-20% IRRs and nearly 20% compounded book value growth, with $5 billion in expected proceeds from current case portfolios and optionality from high-potential litigation, including meatpacking price-fixing cases and the $16.1 billion YPF judgment against Argentina. Burford is the global leader in litigation finance, managing $1.8 billion in balance sheet deployments, $1.2 billion in committed cases, and $2.9 billion in third-party assets, offering uncorrelated, historically strong returns with inherent upside asymmetry through multi-bagger cases. Its scale, deep relationships, proprietary data, and aligned management ownership reinforce its moat. The YPF case, originating from Argentinas 2012 expropriation of Repsol and Petersen stakes, has survived extensive litigation and a 2023 $16.1 billion SDNY judgment, with appeals now before the Second Circuit. Legal analysis indicates an >80% probability of affirmance, with weak defenses under Forum Non Conveniens, international comity, Argentine law, and damages calculation. Separately, Burfords $100 million investment in U.S. meatpacking antitrust cases offers potential for substantial multi-billion-dollar recoveries, providing additional free optionality. Conservative valuation of BURs core business suggests $16$18/share, with the YPF case and other litigation acting as optional upside, while the Petersen Units provide direct exposure to appellate outcomes. Market misinterpretation of Second Circuit oral arguments and political developments in Argentina have depressed prices, creating a compelling entry point. The imminent Second Circuit decision serves as a clear catalyst, with both equities and litigation-linked units poised for significant re-rating upon favorable rulings and settlement progress. Previously, we covered a bullish thesis on Burford Capital Limited (BUR) by Coughlin Capital in May 2025, which highlighted the companys leadership in litigation finance, strong track record of mid-20% IRRs, proprietary data advantages, and the $16.1 billion YPF litigation against Argentina. BURs stock price has depreciated by approximately 33.61% since our coverage due to market volatility and pending appeals. zbeex shares a similar thesis but emphasizes the asymmetric upside from Petersen Units and meatpacking antitrust cases, with the imminent Second Circuit decision as a near-term catalyst. Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) is working toward commercializing a novel aircraft that could disrupt urban mobility for the better. This battery-powered craft, called Midnight, can seat four passengers (plus a pilot), is quieter and more sustainable than helicopters, and could save travelers hours in traffic by flying above gridlock. The company has been hatching this electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) for over seven years. And while at times it's made progress toward gaining regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), its stock has largely underdelivered. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now, when you join Stock Advisor. See the stocks Indeed, if you had invested $1,000 in Archer when it went public at about $10 a share in 2021, your holding would be worth about $650 right now -- a 35% decline. In that same time, an investment in the S&P 500 would have roughly doubled your original investment. Shares of Archer currently trade for about $6.50, valuing the company at about $4.25 billion. With shares below $10, is now the time to buy Archer, or should you wait for more concrete progress? Image source: Archer Aviation. The case for Archer Archer Aviation may be pre-revenue, but it may not stay that way for long. For one, Archer has backing from blue chip partners, like United Airlines, Stellantis, and Boeing. It has international partners and collaborators like Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Ethiopian Airlines, and the government of Serbia. It also claimed to have had a $6 billion backlog at the end of 2024 and had over $1.6 billion in cash and short-term investments at the end of its third quarter. The company says it's making progress through the FAA's certification process. It lacks FAA Type Certification, which it needs to fly passengers commercially, but recent White House initiatives may accelerate the process. Indeed, CEO Adam Goldstein recently told Fox Business that Archer could begin flying in U.S. cities as soon as this summer. Archer was also announced as the official air taxi provider for the LA 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Separating hype from reality This is all exciting news for Archer. At the same time, we have to be careful not to get too caught up in hype. Archer has a history of making big promises. For instance, in February 2021, it told investors it predicted it would get FAA Type Certification in 2024 and reach free cash flow breakeven in 2025, and neither of these have yet happened. MEXICO CITY, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Mexican authorities have recovered 10 bodies in the search for workers kidnapped last month from a mine run by Canada's Vizsla Silver Corp in Mexico's northern state of Sinaloa, the country's attorney general's office said on Monday. The attorney general's office said in a statement that it found 10 bodies in the municipality of Concordia, of which five have so far been identified. Forensic teams are working to identify the remaining five bodies, it added. Mas de Yahoo Scout How is this affecting Vizsla Silver's operations? Which criminal group controls this mining area? What security measures is Mexico taking? What happened to the Vizsla Silver mine workers? Relatives of those kidnapped told Reuters that they have not been provided any information by authorities regarding the possible identities of the bodies yet to be identified. Family members are due to meet with local authorities on Tuesday. A relative of one of the workers said she feared entering Sinaloa, which is beset by violence perpetrated by drug cartels. "We want to go to Sinaloa," she said. "But we have no guarantee that we will be safe. We know about the violence and we are afraid to go." The group was kidnapped at the end of January from a silver mine in an area security authorities say is under the control of the Chapitos, a faction of the Sinaloa cartel led by the sons of former drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. Earlier on Monday, Mexico's mining chamber confirmed the death of three of the kidnapped miners. Ignacio Aurelio Salazar, Jose Angel Hernandez and Jose Manuel Castaneda were confirmed dead by local authorities, Mexican mining chamber Camimex said in a statement. Camimex called for an investigation to find who was responsible. Vancouver-based Vizsla Silver said early on Monday that it was focused on the safe recovery of those still missing and supporting the affected families. "We are devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life," CEO Michael Konnert said. Vizsla Silver said it would provide further updates as it receives confirmations from Mexican authorities. The company has kept its Panuco mine closed since the kidnapping and company shares were down 12.4% at the close on Monday. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment after authorities identified five of the bodies. Mexican authorities said on Friday that at least one body found in a clandestine grave in Concordia - some 45 km (28 miles) east of the Pacific coast city of Mazatlan - matched the description of one of the missing miners. Mexico's government sent more than 1,000 troops, including elite marines, to the area over the weekend to try to locate the missing miners. Authorities arrested four suspects on Thursday in relation to the case. US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated map on his social media platform Truth Social that depicts Greenland, Canada and Venezuela covered with the United States flag, prompting international attention and controversy, AzerNEWS reports. The image, which was shared without accompanying comment or explanation, appears to be a digitally altered version of a photograph taken during an August 2025 Oval Office meeting with European leaders. In the original photo, Trump and visiting officials were positioned near a map of Ukraine; in the AI-generated version, that map is replaced with one showing the American flag over much of North America and parts of South America. The doctored visual also shows several prominent world leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gathered around Trumps desk observing the altered map. Cardano (ADA) founder Charles Hoskinson said he is sitting on more than $3 billion in unrealized losses during the current crypto market downturn, offering a rare look at his personal exposure during a period of sharp declines. Speaking from Tokyo in a live broadcast, Hoskinson addressed a market rattled by forced liquidations and falling prices in an inspirational message. Bitcoin (BTC) dropped to around $60,000 during the week, losing about 16% of its value, while the broader CoinDesk 20 (CD20) index fell 17%. Cardano (ADA) dropped by 15.6% in the week. Hoskinson said he shared the figure to counter claims that crypto founders are insulated from losses that affect retail investors. He told viewers that his financial position has taken a larger hit than most people following the market. Ive lost more money than anyone listening to this. Over $3 billion now. It wouldve been real easy to cash out, just walk away, Hoskinson said. Do you think I honestly care if I lose it all? Theres a reason Im not in the Epstein files, theres a reason I didnt get rolled up in FTX, he added. Its not because no one likes me, its because my default answer is no. I dont care if I lose money, I dont care if it means I get put in the little kids' table and I dont get to go to the White House and all of these other things. In his remarks, Hoskinson emphasized building for the long-term growth of the ecosystem rather than focusing on short-term price movements. The comparison framed the downturn as part of a longer cycle rather than a breaking point. Hoskinson added that every foot forward on that difficult road is progress, adding hes here for life, this is who I am and is always going to be who I am. He also said he has no plans to exit his positions. Instead, he described the selloff as a transition period as financial systems adjust to new technology. For example, he pointed to Cardano-based projects such as Starstream and Midnight, which he said are designed for data-integrity and privacy-focused applications. U.S. Bans Chinese Software in Connected Cars, Industry Scrambles to Comply In a report from The Wall Street Journal, automakers are racing to strip Chinese-written code from internet-connected vehicles as sweeping U.S. national-security regulations take effect. Beginning March 17, carmakers must certify that core connected systems do not contain software developed in China or by Chinese companies. The rule targets cloud-connected features, including telematics, cameras, microphones, GPS systems, and advanced driver-assistance software. Hardware restrictions tied to connectivity components will follow in 2029. The regulation, issued by the Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security, is described by industry leaders as one of the most complex compliance challenges in decades. Carmakers must audit deeply layered supply chains where software often originates from subcontractors or joint ventures. While critical semiconductor sourcing can be traced, embedded code is more opaque. Some exemptions may be granted, and the Chinese code transferred to non-Chinese ownership before the deadline remains permissible, triggering restructuring across the supplier base. Zeekr Zeekr A Major Disruption for U.S. Automakers and Suppliers The implications for U.S.-based manufacturers are significant. Many vehicles rely on Chinese-developed middleware, connectivity modules, and cloud integration layers. Hardware substitution is difficult but manageable; software replacement is far more complex. Automotive code is typically bespoke, tightly integrated into vehicle architectures, and costly to rewrite or validate. Compliance timelines leave little margin for error. Potential partnerships could also be affected. Ford Motor Company has reportedly held discussions with BYD over next-generation hybrid technologies, a collaboration that may now face regulatory scrutiny. Meanwhile, General Motors appears to have anticipated the shift, having already instructed suppliers to phase out China-made parts by 2027. Even so, disentangling software dependencies presents a distinct technical hurdle compared with sourcing physical components. Nissan Nissan Mounting Political Pressure on Chinese Automotive Presence The software ban lands amid intensifying political resistance to Chinese automotive expansion in the U.S. market. National dealership groups have recently urged federal authorities to block Chinese automakers from entering or expanding within the country, citing economic and security concerns. The connected-vehicle rule reinforces that stance by limiting not only vehicles built in China but also any connected car produced by China-controlled companies, regardless of assembly location. Following the U.S. operation that led to the removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro at the start of January, President Donald Trump has made repeated threats on the Caribbean island nation of Cuba. After calling the country "an unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security, the Trump administration has blocked all Cuban oil supplies and threatened to impose tariffs on any country that provides them. With the main supply cut off following Maduro's removal, the Cuban government warned that the country is close to running out of oil in a way that will disrupt any airlines trying to land there for refueling stops. For a month beginning Feb. 9, Cuba is suspending oil supplies to foreign airlines to address the energy crisis, CNBC reported. Airlines cancel flights to Cuba as oil crisis intensifies This means airlines including American Airlines, Air Canada, and Air France, which run multiple flights into the country, will need to either carry enough backup jet fuel or arrange for refueling stops in nearby Caribbean countries such as the Dominican Republic or Jamaica. The move affects both the central Havana Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) and smaller airports in Cuban cities including Varadero, Holguin, Manzanillo, and Santa Clara. Related: Country makes call to cancel all visas for Americans While Mexico had previously attempted to boost oil supplies to Cuba, the threat of tariffs has led to it pulling back. The humanitarian situation, reported by Reuters, has reached critical levels, where many portions of the country are left without power. Canadian national airline Air Canada has made major cutbacks of its Cuba service and has run primarily non-revenue flights out of the country to get stranded travelers back home. Air France has confirmed to French news service AFP that it will reroute its refueling stops to other countries in the Caribbean. Major breakthroughs in U.S.-Cuban relations made under the Obama and Biden administrations were rolled back to a critical point by President Trump.Image source: Shutterstock Image source: Shutterstock American Airlines, Air Canada flights affected by fuel shortage in Cuba "We will operate as scheduled out of Cuba, carrying passengers to Canada," an Air Canada airline representative said in a statement. "We continue to monitor the situation to ensure safe and reliable operations for our passengers and crew and will share more information as it becomes available." American Airlines, which at this time of the year runs more than 70 weekly flights to Cuban cities like Havana and Holguin from Miami International (MIA), is another airline that could see significant disruption by the Cuban NOTAM that prevents foreign carrier refueling. Travel news: Talk to enough people about taxes and the same myths come up again and again. Write-offs are treated like free money. Tax brackets are feared. Refunds are seen as bonuses. And plenty of workers are convinced that earning more will somehow cost them in the end. A Familiar Argument Inside The Firehouse Those misunderstandings were on full display in a recent discussion on Reddits r/tax forum, sparked by a certified public accountant who also works as a firefighter and shared a moment that will sound familiar to many accountants. During a training class, one of his captains confidently told the room that firefighters could write off razors, shaving cream, gym equipment, and even food eaten while on shift because it was required for work. Don't Miss: The AI Marketing Platform Backed by Insiders from Google, Meta, and Amazon Invest at $0.85/Share Americans With a Financial Plan Can 4X Their Wealth Get Your Personalized Plan from a CFP Pro When the CPA pushed back, the captain doubled down, insisting his tax guy had been doing it for years. You can put whatever you want on your tax return until you get audited, he told the captain. That line quickly drew a response from hundreds of tax professionals, preparers, and regular taxpayers, who piled into the comments with stories that revealed just how misunderstood taxes are, especially when it comes to write-offs. The Myth Of The Magical Write-Off The most common misunderstanding, by far, was the idea that a write-off is the same thing as free money. Many people believe that if they spend $1,000 on something and write it off, the government gives them $1,000 back. The number of people who think write off means the government reimburses me never stops surprising me, one CPA said. That misunderstanding alone explains a lot of bad tax decisions. Trending: Motley Fool's analysts have built a new lineup of passive ETFs explore which "Foolish" strategy fits your investment goals. Tax pros repeatedly explained that deductions reduce taxable income, not taxes owed dollar for dollar. That confusion alone explains why people brag about buying trucks, gadgets, or luxury items so the money doesnt go to the IRS, even though they still had to pay for the item themselves. The amount of people who would rather spend $100,000 to save $30,000 in tax is mind blowing, one commenter summed up the frustration. The thread quickly turned into a greatest-hits list of things people tried to deduct. People described attempts to deduct everything from personal vehicles with no real business use and family vacations labeled as research, to pets claimed as dependents, everyday grooming and clothing, lottery tickets, casino trips, cruises, Netflix subscriptions, child care, weddings, and even cosmetic surgery. Get insights on thousands of stocks from the global community of over 7 million individual investors at Simply Wall St. e.l.f. Beauty (NYSE:ELF) is rolling out a Super Bowl commercial featuring Melissa McCarthy, aimed at a broad national audience. The campaign includes content for both English and Spanish-speaking consumers, signaling an effort to reach more diverse customer groups. The company is using this high-profile event to support its ambitions for greater brand awareness and international expansion. e.l.f. Beauty focuses on color cosmetics and skincare, targeting value-conscious consumers who still want branded products. The Super Bowl spot puts the company alongside large global advertisers and comes as beauty brands continue to lean on celebrity partnerships and social media to stay visible with younger shoppers. For investors, a key consideration is how this higher marketing spend affects brand strength and long-term growth relative to competitors. As the campaign unfolds, it provides an opportunity to watch how NYSE:ELF balances customer acquisition, margin impact, and progress in new international markets. Stay updated on the most important news stories for e.l.f. Beauty by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on e.l.f. Beauty. NYSE:ELF Earnings & Revenue Growth as at Feb 2026 How e.l.f. Beauty stacks up against its biggest competitors Quick Assessment Price vs Analyst Target : At US$82.09, the share price sits about 28% below the US$113.50 analyst target. Simply Wall St Valuation : The shares are trading 47.4% above Simply Wall St's estimated fair value. Recent Momentum: The 30 day return is roughly a 5.7% decline. Check out Simply Wall St's in depth valuation analysis for e.l.f. Beauty. Key Considerations The Super Bowl push with Melissa McCarthy aims to widen brand reach, so you may want to see whether it aligns with revenue and earnings trends over coming quarters. Keep an eye on marketing spend versus margins, P/E of 46.6 versus the Personal Products average of 21.4, and any data the company shares on international traction. Simply Wall St flags a high level of debt as a risk, which matters if advertising and expansion plans require sustained heavy spending. Dig Deeper For the full picture including more risks and rewards, check out the complete e.l.f. Beauty analysis. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Italian integrated energy company Eni has dispatched the initial cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Nguya FLNG floating facility, marking the beginning of gas exports for Phase 2 of the Congo LNG project. The ceremony took place in Pointe-Noire and was attended by Congo President Denis Sassou NGuesso and Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi. Now commercially operational, this initiative aligns with Enis goal to grow its LNG portfolio to 20 million tonnes per annum by 2030. Phase 2 of the project increases liquefaction capacity to three million tonnes per annum (mtpa), translating to 4.5 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas annually, drawing on resources from the Nene and Litchendjili fields in the offshore Marine XII license area. The Congo LNG project underscores Eni's ability to transform gas resources into strategic assets for both local and global markets, focusing on cost-effectiveness and environmental performance. Phase 1 of the Congo LNG project, which began with the Tango FLNG liquefaction unit, achieved start-up in December 2023, a little over a year after the project's definition phase. Meanwhile, Phase 2 start-up occurred just 35 months after the construction of the Nguya FLNG unit commenced. Operating in the Republic of Congo since 1968, Eni leads in producing associated and non-associated gas with equity production expected to reach 110 kboed by 2026. Eni provides gas to the Congo Power Plant, which generates about 70% of the country's electricity. Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi said: Today we reach a very important milestone thanks to the relationship of trust built with the countrys institutions and local communities. We have been the only company to invest in gas to develop the domestic market and to reduce routine flaring. This decision, taken more than 20 years ago, led us to discover enough volumes to enable export as well. Phase II of the Congo LNG project was delivered in record time compared with industry averages, increasing gas availability on international markets and contributing to Italian and European energy security, while at the same time generating concrete benefits for the local economy. In December 2025, Eni signed a long-term LNG sales deal with Thailand-based energy operator Gulf Development Company. "Eni dispatches initial LNG cargo from Congos Nguya facility" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The rules come as the two economic superpowers have been at odds with each other due to conflicting policies. In October 2024, the European Union published details of an investigation into government subsidies to carmakers in China, which it claimed gave them a competitive advantage over their European rivals in the electric vehicle market. In a separate statement seen by the SCMP, Chinas Ministry of Commerce said the new proposal "fully reflects the spirit of dialogue and the outcomes of consultations between China and the EU," adding that "It shows that both China and the EU have the ability and willingness to properly resolve differences through dialogue and consultation under the framework of WTO rules and maintain the stability of automotive industrial and supply chains in China, the EU and the whole world." We have said from the start, as the European Commission, as the investigative authority in this case, that were willing to look at alternatives to the anti-subsidy duties we put in place, Gill said. Automakers who play ball with the European Commission on its price control and import restriction scheme could be exempt from the anti-subsidy tariffs of up to 35% that it first proposed in 2024 on imported Chinese EVs. In a statement to the Times, European Commission spokesman Olof Gill noted that the European Commission had been flexible with its counterparts in the People's Republic on this matter, with this measure being an example of such. These new policies would allow automakers with factories in China, as well as Chinese automakers, to voluntarily limit the number of units they ship from China to Europe. In addition, the Commission's new documentation also outlines that Chinese exporters would set minimum prices for said cars; a figure that the EU will calculate based on the ability to "eliminate the injurious effects of the subsidies and provide equivalent effect to duties." The commission also implored Chinese EV brands to state their plans for future investments in the EU. According to new reports published on January 12 by The New York Times and the South China Morning Post, the European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, and Chinas Ministry of Commerce announced new guidance that would replace steep tariffs on imported EVs from China. After months of politically motivated trade tensions between the European Union and China, the former is considering a dramatic retreat of its policies targeting electric vehicle manufacturers in the People's Republic after just a year and a half. Story Continues Much like the proposed new ruling, the tariffs were based on the amount of subsidies each automaker in China received, ranging from 7.8% for Tesla Shanghai (the division of Tesla that produces CN-exclusive Model Y variants) to 35.3% for SAIC Motor, the state-owned automaker that owns the British heritage brand MG. In response to these tariffs, officials in Beijing launched counter-probes into certain products it believed the EU was flooding, namely European brandy and cognac (i.e., Remy Martin and Hennessy), pork, and dairy products. Although these measures were intended to protect the European auto market from juggernauts such as BYD, the measures also affected Western automakers that made cars in China for Europe, including BMW, who made the EU-bound iX3 there and Volvo, who moved production of EU-bound EX30s from China to Belgium to decrease its exposure. At the time, then-Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said that the tariffs were counterproductive. There should be no mistake these short-term actions will have negative mid- and long-term implications, Mr. Tavares said at the time. The best way the only way to protect ourselves, our industries, our workers is to compete with the newcomers and raise ourselves to their game. Honda Honda The proposed rules echo similar sentiment between the U.S. and Japan during the 1980s. The proposed rules from the EU and the Chinese government arent entirely new, as a similar measure had been tried during trade tensions between the U.S. and Japan during the early 1980s, as the visual dominance of Japanese companies in key industries like electronics, steel, shipbuilding, textiles, and especially cars led American politicians, workers, and the general public in middle America to lament the land of the rising sun. During this time, the rise of smaller, imported Japanese cars caught Detroit automakers not paying attention, as sales figures showed that between 1978 and 1980, U.S. automakers lost more of their share in the market when sales of small cars in the United States increased by a third. In February 1980, UAW President Douglas Fraser traveled to Japan to persuade Japanese automakers to impose voluntary export restraints and to consider setting up operations in the U.S. However, the Japanese companies were reluctant to enter the unfamiliar American business environment. By July, the UAW and Ford urged the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to investigate whether the influx of Japanese cars was harming the domestic auto industry. Despite their claims, in November the ITC ruled that the economic troubles were primarily due to the recession and the U.S. industry's inability to meet the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. The narrative of doom regarding Japanese imports took hold, influenced by the political climate during the 1980 presidential election. At a campaign stop in Michigan, Ronald Reagan assured auto workers, There is a place where government can be legitimately involved, and this is where I think government has a role it has shirked so far, and that is to convince the Japanese one way or another, and in their own best interest, the deluge of cars into the United States must be slowed while our industry gets back on its feet. Despite the strong urge from a bipartisan group of lawmakers to implement trade restrictions, nothing significant occurred initially. During Reagans early administration, pressure was applied to Japan's Ministry of International Trade and Industry, resulting in the Voluntary Export Restraint (VER) agreement that took effect on May 1, 1981. Under this agreement, Japan set its own quotas on car exports to the U.S., starting with 1.68 million vehicles per year from 1981 to 1983, which later increased to 2.3 million by 1985. Related: How Honda and Other Japanese Redefined the American Car Final Thoughts It is important to recognize this small detail in the EU's proposal, where it asks Chinese automakers about "planned future investments in the EU," as it could have consequences for both the EU and China, based on what has happened in the United States as a result of the similar policy it enacted to combat Japanese imports. This period in the 80s led Japanese automakers to explore U.S. local manufacturing to avoid export restraints. Honda came first to Marysville in 1982, followed by Nissan's opening of its Smyrna, Tennessee assembly plant in 1983. Toyota opened its Georgetown, Kentucky assembly plant in 1988, and Subaru followed with the opening of its Lafayette, Indiana plant in 1989. The impact is undeniable. According to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, over 110,000 people are directly employed by Japanese automakers. Since 1982, Japanese automakers have produced over 100 million vehicles in the US, and one in three cars made in the country bears a Japanese brand badge. If they play ball, Chinese automakers have an opportunity to redefine the face of the European car and, hopefully, revitalize Europe's industrial core if they meet eye to eye on all fronts. Related: Watch A Chinese EV Beat Ferrari When Conditions Are Not Perfect This story was originally published by Autoblog on Feb 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here. By Neha Arora NEW DELHI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - India's steel exports will continue to be impacted by the European Union's carbon tax and import quotas, and the government will take steps to help the sector, the federal steel secretary said on Monday. The comments come days after India and the European Union signed a trade deal, which slashed tariffs on several sectors but left the bloc's carbon border tariff, called Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, intact. Indian steel mills ship roughly two thirds of their total exports to Europe. "With European Union's CBAM and tariffs, quotas and other challenges, exports will remain a problem and we will have to take action," said Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik at a government event in New Delhi. India has sharply criticised the world-first CBAM policy since it was announced by the EU in 2021, saying the levy could hamper trade in steel. Since January, the regulatory framework brought in by the EU has led to fees on imports of steel, cement and other goods whose production results in high levels of carbon emissions. India's steel exports to Europe are expected to fall as a consequence, prompting mills to seek alternative buyers in Africa and the Middle East, Reuters reported. (Reporting by Neha Arora in New Delhi, writing by Hritam Mukherjee; Editing by Rashmi Aich) Businesses are generating more video than ever. From years of broadcast archives to thousands of store cameras and countless hours of production footage, most of it just sits unused on servers, unwatched and unanalyzed. This is dark data: a massive, untapped resource that companies collect automatically but almost never use in a meaningful way. To tackle the problem, Aza Kai (CEO) and Hiraku Yanagita (COO), two former Googlers who spent nearly a decade working together at Google Japan, decided to build their own solution. The duo co-founded InfiniMind, a Tokyo-based startup developing infrastructure that converts petabytes of unviewed video and audio into structured, queryable business data. My co-founder, who spent a decade leading brand and data solutions at Google Japan, and I saw this inflection point coming while we were still at Google, Kai said. By 2024, the technology had matured, and the market demand had become clear enough that the co-founders felt compelled to build the company themselves, he added. Kai, who previously worked at Google Japan across cloud, machine learning, ad systems, and video recommendation models and later led data science teams, explained that current solutions force a trade-off. Earlier approaches could label objects in individual frames, but they couldnt track narratives, understand causality, or answer complex questions about video content. For clients with decades of broadcast archives and petabytes of footage, even basic questions about their content often went unanswered. What really changed was the progress in vision-language models between 2021 and 2023. Thats when video AI started moving beyond simple object tagging, Kai noted. Falling GPU costs and annual performance gains of roughly 15% to 20% over the last decade helped, but the bigger story was capability until recently, models just couldnt do the job, he told TechCrunch. InfiniMind recently secured $5.8 million in seed funding, led by UTEC and joined by CX2, Headline Asia, Chiba Dojo, and an AI researcher at a16z Scout. The company is relocating its headquarters to the U.S., while it continues to operate an office in Japan. Japan provided the perfect testbed: strong hardware, talented engineers, and a supportive startup ecosystem, allowing the team to fine-tune its technology with demanding customers before going global. Its first product, TV Pulse, launched in Japan in April 2025. The AI-powered platform analyzes television content in real time, helping media and retail companies track product exposure, brand presence, customer sentiment, and PR impact, per the startup. After pilot programs with major broadcasters and agencies, it already has paying customers, including wholesalers and media companies. In a move that signals the next phase of the artificial intelligence boom, Emanate, an AI startup focused on the gritty reality of Americas industrial supply chain, has emerged from stealth. Backed by venture capital heavyweight Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) and led by Gen Z standout Kiara Nirghin, the company aims to modernize the physical economy through the deployment of autonomous revenue agents. Nirghin, a Thiel fellow as well as the youngest board member of the Google Impact Fund, has won backing for Emanate from Peter Thiel himself, as well as Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian and other prominent angels. San Franciscobased Emanate was founded in 2025 and is currently staffed by a small, tight-knit group of under 10 AI engineers and product designers. Billing itself as the first AI revenue engine built for industrial materials companies, it projects its revenue will grow nearly 50-fold in the coming months as it deepens design partnerships with leading industrial distributors. Emanates debut is part of a16zs broader investment thesis that prioritizes companies supporting national interests, such as logistics, industrials, and critical infrastructure. Nirghin, who is also a Stanford AI researcher and former Grand Prize winner of the Google Science Fair, said she wants Emanates impact to go far beyond California. So far, most AI benefits have gone to Silicon Valley. Were bringing them to the industries that build America, said Nirghin. For a16z, the investment underscores a belief that the biggest remaining AI upside lies in sectors like energy and industrial distribution rather than classic software. General partner Ben Horowitz, nodding to the firms recent $15 billion fundraise (its largest ever), emphasized the necessity of American technological leadership: At this moment of profound technological opportunity, it is fundamentally important for humanity that America wins Our mission is ensuring that America wins the next 100 years of technology. Revolutionizing the backbone of America Emanate targets the industrial materials sectora $5 trillion market comprising distributors, service centers, and suppliers. Despite being the backbone of the economy, this sector has historically lagged in digital adoption. Emanates thesis holds that these businesses are leaving billions on the table owing to reliance on manual processes. Because industrial distribution involves custom pricing, nonstandard specifications, and complex processing services, every revenue-generating operation typically requires human intervention. Akbar Novruz The Western Azerbaijan Community has issued a statement addressed to US Vice President James David Vance regarding his upcoming visit to Azerbaijan. According to AzerNEWS, the statement reads: Dear Mr Vance, We have learned from the press that you will be visiting Azerbaijan. Welcome to the Land of Fire. Azerbaijan is a peaceful country where, historically, Muslims, Christians and Jews have lived together in peace and security. Azerbaijan places great importance on family values, as well as spiritual and traditional values. Azerbaijans relations with the Christian world and the Holy See are developing successfully. In recent years, numerous high-level visits from Azerbaijan to the Vatican have taken place. Last year, the opening ceremony of the Baku office of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was held in the capital. At the same time, plans are under way for the construction of a second Catholic church in Baku. As a result of the criminal negligence of the leadership of the former Soviet Union, beginning in 1987, Western Azerbaijanis living in Armenia were deported. Their villages and ancestral homelands were emptied, burned and looted, while mosques and cultural heritage sites were destroyed. The cultural heritage of Western Azerbaijanis was appropriated and historical facts were falsified. In particular, the original identity of the Blue Mosque in Yerevan, which belongs to Azerbaijanis, was altered. Although Western Azerbaijanis have integrated into Azerbaijani society over the years, they have never forgotten their ancestral homeland in Armenia and have always lived with the hope of returning there. Western Azerbaijanis have no territorial claims against Armenia and do not oppose its sovereignty. On the contrary, they fully support the policy of President Ilham Aliyev aimed at achieving lasting peace with Armenia, as well as the AzerbaijanArmenia normalisation process, which is developing with the support of US President Donald Trump. We welcome the historic Washington meeting held on 8 August 2025, the Joint Declaration signed by the leaders of Azerbaijan, Armenia and the United States, and the initialling of the peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia. We also fully support the progress achieved in the normalisation process since the Washington meeting, including confidence-building measures between the two countries and the resumption of trade relations. We further look forward to the imminent implementation of the Trump Roadmap for International Peace and Prosperity. Dear Mr Vance, All these achievements, recently attained with the support of your administration, give us confidence that Western Azerbaijanis, after a long period of waiting, will be able to return to their ancestral homelands in Armenia, restore their destroyed villages and homes, revisit their cemeteries, and rebuild their mosques. To achieve this, we need the support of all progressive humanity, especially that of the United States. We believe that your visit to the region will make a significant contribution to the normalisation of relations between the two states and peoples, the strengthening of economic and trade ties, and the initiation of new transport links. The European market has recently shown resilience, with the pan-European STOXX Europe 600 Index reaching new highs, supported by optimism about the eurozone economy despite global market volatility. In this context, identifying high-growth tech stocks involves looking for companies that can navigate current economic conditions and leverage technological advancements to sustain their growth trajectory. Top 10 High Growth Tech Companies In Europe Name Revenue Growth Earnings Growth Growth Rating Hacksaw 28.53% 33.50% Pharma Mar 17.63% 36.10% Bonesupport Holding 25.63% 57.97% KebNi 26.69% 73.00% CD Projekt 32.71% 43.20% Pexip Holding 11.19% 22.27% Kitron 22.22% 32.14% Appear 20.40% 23.18% SyntheticMR 18.81% 47.40% Waystream Holding 17.38% 66.50% Click here to see the full list of 50 stocks from our European High Growth Tech and AI Stocks screener. Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener. Simply Wall St Growth Rating: Overview: Vend Marketplaces ASA, along with its subsidiaries, develops and operates a range of marketplaces across Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Poland with a market capitalization of approximately NOK56.13 billion. Operations: Vend Marketplaces ASA generates revenue primarily through its Mobility (NOK 2.54 billion), Real Estate (NOK 1.33 billion), Jobs (NOK 1.12 billion), and Recommerce (NOK 813 million) segments across several Nordic and European countries. Vend Marketplaces ASA, navigating through a challenging fiscal year, reported a significant net loss of NOK 166 million for 2025, contrasting sharply with the previous year's net income of NOK 12.957 billion. Despite these hurdles, the company's revenue growth forecast remains robust at 8.4% annually, outpacing the Norwegian market's average of 3.5%. In response to financial pressures and aiming to bolster investor confidence, Vend initiated a share repurchase program valued at up to NOK 2 billion and announced an annual dividend of NOK 2.50 per share. This strategic financial maneuvering highlights their commitment to returning value to shareholders while stabilizing their capital structure amidst ongoing profitability challenges. OB:VEND Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Feb 2026 Simply Wall St Growth Rating: Overview: BioGaia AB (publ) is a healthcare company that develops, manufactures, markets, and sells probiotic products for gut, oral, and immune health across various global regions including Europe and the United States, with a market capitalization of approximately SEK11.05 billion. You can find original article here Nrn. Subscribe to our free daily Nrn newsletters. A new lawsuit filed last week by an ad hoc group of FAT Brands investors is demanding the immediate temporary suspension without pay of CEO Andy Wiederhorn for allegedly violating bankruptcy rules by conducting unauthorized transactions. The group of bondholders, which collectively holds nearly $1 billion of FAT Brands current debt, claims that less than 48 hours after the companys first bankruptcy hearing, Wiederhorn directed the sale of 9 million shares of Twin Peaks equity to White Lion Capital for $3.1 million without consulting the special committee or obtaining prior court approval. These shares were then resold to the public for an unknown amount. The lawsuit stipulates that this action is in violation of bankruptcy proceedings and securities law. The group states that acquiring the debtors assets would create a conflict of interest as he could potentially manipulate the sales process for personal gain. The investor group also believes that a Chapter 11 trustee is needed to take charge of this bankruptcy case, but in the meantime, they are asking the Southern District of Texas Bankruptcy Court to approve an emergency order to suspend Wiederhorn by Feb. 10. The debtors are suffering from Mr. Wiederhorns dictatorial control, his gross mismanagement and self-dealing, and his history of unilaterally firing and replacing . . . directors if they did not do his bidding, the lawsuit states. Suspending Mr. Wiederhorn as CEO temporarily pending resolution on the trustee motion would not only protect the debtors interest and its stakeholders, but it would also promote the integrity of the bankruptcy system, to which Mr. Wiederhorn has blatantly refused adherence. This is the second lawsuit filed against FAT Brands for alleged mismanagement of funds related to Twin Hospitality Group. Last month, the companys largest bondholder, Investor 352 Fund, sued the company for $109 million and promised Class B Common stock tied to ownership of Twin Peaks, as it was issued by Twin Hospitality. This lawsuit was filed days before FAT Brands filed for bankruptcy, citing the mounting liabilities and liquidity situation of the companies. The Ad Hoc Group lawsuit, filed post-bankruptcy, seeks to address governance issues and prevent further harm to creditors during the reorganization process. Contact Joanna at joanna.fantozzi@informa.com A consortium of private investors led by FedEx on Monday reached an agreement on an all-cash offer to buy publicly traded InPost, a fast-growing express delivery firm based in Poland for 7.8 billion euros (equivalent to $9.2 billion) as FedEx moves to capture a larger share of the of the European B2C market. FedEx (NYSE: FDX), which would take a 37% stake in InPost, is partnered with private equity firm Advent; investment company A&R, which is controlled by InPost founder Rafal Brzoska and currently owns 12% of InPost shares; and PPF Group, a large investment and industrial holding company. FedExs minority stake will allow the parcel logistics integrator to quickly tap into the rapid growth of out-of-home parcel delivery across key European markets and allow global customers to access InPosts network, where parcel volumes have quadrupled over five years as consumers increasingly make retail purchases online. The financial backing will help InPost continue its expansion across Europe and install more automated parcel machines. The companies said in their announcement that there is an opportunity to significantly grow InPosts out-of-home delivery network across Europe with rising consumer demand for frictionless delivery service. InPost specializes in out-of-home delivery, using a network of 61,000 parcel lockers and more than 34,000 pick-up/drop-off points in several countries to support more than 100,000 e-commerce sellers. It also offers front-door service. InPost last year acquired Yodel for $144 million, making it the third-largest independent parcel operator in the UK, and Spain-based courier Sending. Before that it took over Mondial Relay in France. The carriers parcel volumes in 2025 increased 25% to more than 1.4 billion. InPost is growing financially, as well as geographically. It posted $300 million in adjusted earnings before interest, taxes and appreciation during the third quarter. Analysts say InPost has been smart in acquiring slow-growth last-mile delivery companies at scale and shifting their focus from home to out-of-home delivery, which is much less expensive. Under the tentative deal, Advent will also hold 37% of InPost, with A&R owning 16% and PPF holding 10%. InPost will continue to operate as a standalone company, with Brzoska as CEO. The buyers said they support InPosts strategy to further expand its European footprint in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Benelux and the United Kingdom, the largest e-commerce market in Europe. The investment also will allow InPost to further develop its mobile app, which allows retail consumers to open automated parcel lockers, track shipments, receive arrival notices and make labelless returns. Meghann Mendez of Ocala, Florida, thought everything was in place for her 14-month-old son Shaes potentially life-saving surgery scheduled for early January. But then last December, just weeks before his critical procedure, she learned that Shaes Medicaid coverage through Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) had ended on November 30. The reason? Shae had been receiving specialized treatment at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia since May 2025. According to Mendez, DCF informed her that her son had been out of Florida too long. As WFTV Action 9 reports, she was told she needed to apply for Medicaid in Pennsylvania, even though she and her husband remained Florida residents. Must Read Theyre just leaving me stuck, and I cant be stuck because my son's life is depending on it, (1) Mendez told the news station. A rule most parents don't know exists What happened to Shae wasnt a rare clerical error, but highlights a rule that catches many families off guard: Medicaid eligibility is tied to state residency. Which means coverage doesnt always automatically follow families when they cross state lines, even temporarily for medical care. This differs fundamentally from private health insurance. When you move with private insurance through the health insurance market or an employer plan, you typically qualify for a special enrollment period to select a new plan (6). While youll still need a new policy in your new state, the process is more straightforward and coverage can often begin quickly. However, with Medicaid, theres no transfer option as each state administers its own program with unique rules. As HealthInsurance.org explains, because each state has its own Medicaid eligibility requirements, you cant just transfer coverage from one state to another, nor can you use your Medicaid coverage when you're temporarily visiting another state, unless you need emergency health care (3). That being said, states are required to provide Medicaid to their residents, including those temporarily absent under certain circumstances. And Medicaid allows for states to establish interstate agreements to prevent low-income children who rely on the program from losing coverage or experiencing gaps in the continuity of their care. That coordination may be necessary especially in situations where children would otherwise lose their coverage due to family migration as a result of natural disasters, emergency evacuations, educational needs, public health emergencies or other similar circumstances (2). In the evolving landscape of digital finance, Big Four consultancy firm EY has zeroed in on what it believes is the next defining frontier: wallets. Wallets are fast becoming the critical interface for the next era of financial services, not just tools for holding cryptocurrency, according to Mark Nichols, principal at EY. The wallet is the strategy, Nichols who co-leads the firms digital assets consulting business, told CoinDesk in an interview. Who owns the wallet, who provisions the wallet, will win the client relationship. Nichols and his West Coast counterpart, Rebecca Carvatt, view wallets as more than infrastructure. Theyre the gateway to storing, moving and managing tokenized value in a world where financial instruments, from payments to private credit, are increasingly moving onchain, he said. Not just custody: Wallets as the hub of tokenized finance The vision is expansive. Far from being a niche utility for crypto enthusiasts, wallets are becoming the connective tissue of a broader tokenized financial system. Wallets will soon be indispensable for retail investors, asset managers, treasurers and even commercial banks, according to Carvatt, co-leader of EY's digital assets consulting business. Theyre going to be the access point for everything payments, tokenized assets and stablecoins, she said. EYs perspective positions wallets as the new bank accounts of the future, with services tailored not just to individuals, but to corporates and institutional investors who require sophisticated integration with risk systems, compliance tools and real-time capital flows. The implication is clear: whoever controls the wallet controls the relationship. For financial institutions already losing ground to crypto-native platforms, the shift is existential. Beyond liquidity: The real promise of tokenization The broader shift to tokenization is often framed as a play for liquidity, but EY believes that narrative undersells the true impact. Its not just about liquidity," Nichols says. Liquidity isnt the be-all and end-all, it's about the utility that onchain finance enables. What EY sees instead is the emergence of blockchain as a real-time infrastructure for financial markets, one that allows for programmable transaction chains, and fundamentally reshapes how capital is managed. Tokenization enables atomic settlement, sure, but its real power lies in margin optimization and operational efficiency. Nichols points to scenarios where firms can use stablecoins or tokenized assets to meet margin calls more frequently and precisely. That, in turn, reduces initial margin requirements, freeing up capital for investment. Its about better risk alignment and real-time capital management, he says. And the wallet becomes the gateway to making that possible. GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) is among the 10 best American defense stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. The stock has been on analysts radar and currently carries a Strong Buy rating, with a one-year average share price target of $358.33, representing 16.96% upside as of February 5. GE Aerospace (GE) a Strong Buy, Analysts See 17% Upside Stock market data showing an upward trajectory. Photo by Burak The Weekender on Pexels Recent updates include JPMorgans January 26 lift of its price target on GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) to $335 from $325, following the companys fourth-quarter 2025 earnings beat. According to TipRanks, the firm noted that the stock had underperformed lately due to higher expectations. However, JPMorgan remains optimistic about the companys fundamentals and capabilities, which is why it reiterated an Overweight rating. The jet-engine maker reported adjusted EPS of $1.57 for Q4, beating estimates by 14 cents and up 19% year-over-year. The companys quarterly adjusted revenue also increased 20% year over year to $11.87 billion. During the earnings call, GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) shared its 2026 profit forecast, which exceeded Wall Street estimates. Due to aircraft supply constraints, airlines are spending more on maintenance, leading to an increase in demand for aftermarket parts and services. In other news, on February 3, the company announced to invest up to $300 million over the next five years to expand its engine repair capabilities in Singapore. GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) is a global aerospace propulsion, services, and systems company with an installed base of around 25,000 military and 45,000 commercial aircraft engines. While we acknowledge the potential of GE as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 12 Most Profitable NASDAQ Stocks to Buy Right Now and 10 Best Defense Stocks to Buy in the S&P 500. Disclosure: None. Wall Street loves a big technology story, but the quiet changes usually matter more for your job and your portfolio. Goldman Sachs is working with Anthropic to build AI agents that take over painstaking tasks like trade and transaction accounting plus client vetting and onboarding, according to CNBC. Engineers from Anthropic have been embedded inside the bank for about six months to codevelop those autonomous agents on top of Claude, Goldman Sachs Chief Information Officer Marco Argenti told CNBC in an exclusive interview. He described these systems as digital coworkers for roles that are scaled, complex, and very processintensive. Goldman Sachs has integrated Anthropic's AI assistant Claude to help workers with tedious, data-heavy tasks.Photo by Cheng Xin on Getty Images Photo by Cheng Xin on Getty Images How Goldman quietly put AI assistant Claude on ledger duty The deployment plan is more specific than a marketing slogan, which is why I think it matters for anyone working in or investing in financial services. Goldman has been collaborating with Anthropic to develop AI agents that automate a growing set of internal roles, with an initial focus on managing trades and transactions, as well as client evaluation and onboarding, CNBC reported after speaking with Argenti. For roughly half a year, Anthropic engineers have been embedded in Goldmans teams to build those autonomous agents around Claude, Argenti told CNBC, in comments later echoed by Reuters. Related: Goldman Sachs revamps Nvidia stock forecast ahead of earnings The work centers on agents that can handle trade and transaction accounting, along with client due diligence and onboarding, said Global Banking & Finance Review, citing Argentis characterization of those functions as operationally intensive. Executives expect these agents to decrease the time needed to finalize essential operational functions, particularly around reconciling trades and pushing onboarding files over the finish line, CNBC highlighted. From my perspective, that is the classic backoffice sweet spot for early AI. The data are structured, the rules are clear, and the cost of delay shows up quickly in both client frustration and operational risk. Why Goldman Sachs moved Claude from coding to accounting The most interesting part of this story for me is how Claude got promoted from coding helper to wouldbe accounting and compliance coworker. Argenti said Claude excels at coding and then asked whether that performance was unique to software or a sign that the model can logically navigate complex problems in a stepbystep manner, according to CNBC's account of his comments. He told CNBC the firm was surprised by how strong Claude turned out to be beyond engineering tasks, especially in accounting and compliance functions that require processing large volumes of documents and data while applying rules and judgment. CEO Jon Harris described Gulf Keystone as a pure-play operator in Kurdistan with a long operating history in the region. He said the production sharing contract (PSC) was awarded in 2007, the field was discovered in 2010, and first commercial production began in 2013. Papineau-Legris also said the company has support from major shareholders for the dual listing. According to management, one large shareholder has agreed to underwrite the retail offer and will transfer some shares to help meet listing requirements, while other shareholders have indicated support for additional share transfers over time to increase the number of shares listed in Oslo. Management characterized Euronext Growth Oslo as a first step, with an intention to move to the Oslo main list in due course. CFO Gabriel Papineau-Legris said Gulf Keystone views Oslo as a natural market for oil and gas issuers, noting that Norwegian institutions and analysts already follow activity in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. He added that five of the companys eight analysts are based at Norwegian banks and that Gulf Keystone regularly attends Oslo-based energy conferences. Gulf Keystone Petroleum (LON:GKP) used a company presentation hosted by DNB Markets, Carnegie AS and SpareBank 1 Markets to outline its decision to proceed with a dual listing on Euronext Growth Oslo, alongside its existing London listing. Management said the move is intended to increase share liquidity, broaden the investor base, and improve access to capital markets, while the company is currently conducting a related offering. Exports, pricing and nearterm growth plans: interim export agreements have restarted pipeline sales delivering about $30/boe cash today (management sees this rising to at least $45/boe at $65 Brent), production is guided to 37,00041,000 bpd in 2025 , and a waterhandling project is expected to add ~ 4,0008,000 bpd by 202627, with drilling resuming only if export stability and pricing improve. Strong asset and financial position: Gulf Keystone is a pureplay operator at Shaikan with 2024 average production ~41,600 bpd, 2P reserves of 443 million barrels , low operating costs (~ $4.3/boe ), a debtfree balance sheet with $88M cash and $50M of dividends paid in 2024. Dual listing on Euronext Growth Oslo alongside the London listing and a concurrent share offering aim to boost liquidity and broaden the investor base, with a major shareholder underwriting the retail offer and transferring shares and management signalling an eventual move to the Oslo main list. Story Continues 3 Consumer Staples Stocks Breaking Out This Month Harris said the company averaged about 41,600 barrels per day in 2024, totaling just over 15 million barrels produced during the year. He added that the Shaikan field reached a milestone of 150 million barrels produced (cumulatively) in November 2024. As of the end of December 2024, Harris said the company reported 2P reserves of 443 million barrels in the Jurassic reservoir, which is currently the only producing horizon. Management highlighted cost performance, with Harris stating operating costs of $4.3 per barrel and low general and administrative expenses. He also noted a safety milestone of three years without a lost-time incident, achieved in January. 2 Subscription Economy Winners That Still Dominate Their Niches The company said it has a market capitalization of about $540 million (about NOK 5.2 billion), is debt-free, and had a cash position of $88 million. Harris also pointed to $50 million of dividends paid in 2024, despite sales into the local market during part of the period. 2025 production guidance and near-term operational plans Harris said the company has maintained production during a period without drilling, describing the last 2.5 years as a time when the company was diverted into local sales after a pipeline shutdown. For 2025, management guided to average production of 37,000 to 41,000 barrels per day. Harris said January production was around 40,000 barrels per day and that workovers were underway, with two wells returning online following tubing replacement and other work. He also said the company anticipates a shutdown in late summer 2025 for safety tie-ins and critical well work, framing this as necessary to keep operations safe and maintain reliable production. A key near-term project is additional water handling capacity. Harris said Gulf Keystone is pursuing a lease-to-buy arrangement for a water handling train to be installed at the second production facility, with commissioning targeted for late 2026 or early 2027. He said the added capacity would allow the company to produce some currently constrained wells harder, with an expected incremental increase of roughly 4,000 to 8,000 barrels per day once the equipment is online. Harris said the company is tendering for a drilling rig, but that a return to drilling depends on continued export stability and improved realized pricing. Export restart, pricing expectations, and key uncertainties Papineau-Legris said Gulf Keystone entered interim agreements in September 2025 with the federal government of Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), and other international oil companies to allow a return to exports via pipeline. He said the agreements have been operating as planned, with regular liftings at the Turkish port of Ceyhan occurring twice a month and payments being received under the agreed process. Management said the interim agreements were extended for three months through the end of March 2026. Papineau-Legris added that an independent consultant appointed by the federal government is conducting a review of assets and contractual costs to validate entitlements, with completion expected by the end of the extended period. According to management, the company currently receives about $30 per barrel on a cash basis under the interim arrangementsan improvement versus prior local sales. Papineau-Legris said Gulf Keystone believes this could rise to at least $45 per barrel based on $65 Brent, with potential further upside following the review process. He added that the company expects to receive a top-up payment related to sales since September 2025 once reconciliation is completed, and said Gulf Keystone continues to engage with the KRG regarding historical receivables as part of broader commercial discussions. In the Q&A, management identified remaining uncertainty largely at a macro level, including political developments in Baghdad and the formation of a new government and budget law. Papineau-Legris said that, operationally, exports and payments had been consistent nearly five months into the process, aside from some delay in appointing the independent consultant. Longer-term growth potential and shareholder returns Harris said Shaikan has additional potential beyond the current Jurassic production, pointing to prospective Triassic and Cretaceous zones. He referenced neighboring operators producing from the Triassic and said Gulf Keystone sees similarities in its own appraisal well data. He also discussed the companys desire to substantially reduce routine flaring and noted that, prior to the pipeline closure in 2023, a field development plan had been agreed with the Ministry of Natural Resources and a gas management/reinjection project had been under contract before being paused. Looking ahead, Harris described a prior development ambition to increase production from roughly 45,000 barrels per day toward 85,000 barrels per day from the Jurassic, plus 10,000 to 20,000 barrels per day from the Triassic, alongside a flaring solution, subject to commercial conditions. He said the companys reduced cost pool compared with 2023 could accelerate investment economics and that the focus would be more on drilling than on additional surface capacity, particularly once the water handling project is implemented. He said the company is reviewing plans and preparing for drilling, with a multi-well campaign conceptually involving 16 to 20 wells over multiple years, and noted management is targeting a return to growth in 2027. On capital allocation, Papineau-Legris said management intends to continue balancing investment with shareholder returns, emphasizing the need for flexibility given past disruptions. He said the company will continue reviewing semi-annual dividends and may consider buybacks opportunistically, but expects to provide a more predictable distribution policy once it has consistent international price payments and better visibility on capital spending timing. Management also addressed potential M&A in Kurdistan, suggesting that consistent exports and a return to international pricing could improve the ability to value assets and support deal activity, while emphasizing that any transaction would need to work for shareholders. In discussing investor feedback on the listing plan, Papineau-Legris said London-based shareholders have been broadly supportive, particularly around the goal of improving liquidity. About Gulf Keystone Petroleum (LON:GKP) Gulf Keystone Petroleum Limited engages in oil and gas exploration, development, and production in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The company operates Shaikan field that covers an area of approximately 280 square kilometers, which is located north-west of Erbil. It also provides management, support, geological, geophysical, and engineering services. The company was incorporated in 2001 and is based in Hamilton, Bermuda. The article "Gulf Keystone Petroleum Plans Oslo Dual Listing to Boost Liquidity as Share Offering Begins" was originally published by MarketBeat. The telehealth company Hims & Hers (NYSE: HIMS), which provides consultations and prescriptions, saw its stock crater by nearly 16% on Feb. 9 after deciding not to move forward with plans to offer a copycat GLP-1 pill. This decision was made after U.S. Food and Drug Administration last Friday announced its "intent to take decisive steps to restrict GLP-1 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) intended for use in non-FDA-approved compounded drugs that are being mass-marketed by companies -- including Hims & Hers and other compounding pharmacies -- as similar alternatives to FDA-approved drugs." Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue Image source: Getty Images. Hims & Hers has previously sold an injectable weight-loss treatment that used compounded semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Wegovy, which are used to help suppress appetite and aid weight loss. Novo Nordisk then created a version of Wegovy in pill form that would cost $149 per month. Hims & Hers last week announced a copycat version of the Wegovy pill that would cost $49 for the first month and $99 per month after on a five-month plan. That sent the stock surging last week, but shortly after the announcement, Novo Nordisk announced plans to sue Hims & Hers for patent infringement, which led the stock to give up those gains. Hims & Hers' stock is now down over 58% in the past year. Is the company toast? GLP-1 is a big part of Hims & Hers' business Through the first nine months of 2025, Hims & Hers grew revenue by 74% year over year, driven largely by demand for the company's alternative weight-loss treatments. The stock shot higher on several occasions in 2025 but has since pulled back, likely due to concerns about the sustainability of the company's revenue from GLP-1 drugs. Hims & Hers has called Novo Nordisk's lawsuit a "blatant attack" on "millions of Americans who rely on compounded medications for access to personalized care... Once again, big pharma is weaponizing the U.S. judicial system to limit consumer choice." However, the FDA seems serious about cracking down on copycat drugs, and the agency's specific naming of Hims & Hers is not a good sign. Given the intense demand for GLP-1 drugs and increasing competition, prices for these drugs are likely to come down over time, which would make the business tougher, even if Hims & Hers manages to escape current regulatory and legal issues. Furthermore, the telehealth market, which was a darling during the pandemic, has lost some of its appeal and faces significant competition. HMBD-002: Percherons immunotherapy enters Phase II planning - ICYMI Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock Percheron Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:PER, OTC:PERCF) last week outlined progress on its lead oncology asset HMBD-002, positioning the immunotherapy program to move into Phase II clinical testing following the completion of Phase I studies. Chief executive officer Dr James Garner said the company had undergone a significant reset, both in terms of its asset base and internal structure, describing HMBD-002 as a completely new opportunity for Percheron Therapeutics Ltd. He noted that the drug had no scientific relationship to previous programs and targets a different disease pathway, making it uncorrelated with earlier setbacks. Interview highlights Percheron Therapeutics Ltd has repositioned around its lead oncology asset HMBD-002 HMBD-002 is an immunotherapy designed to activate the immune system rather than poison tumours The drug has successfully completed Phase I human trials Phase II clinical testing is the next major milestone and is of high interest to investors HMBD-002 targets VISTA, a difficult immune target with limited competition The company believes it is a global leader in VISTA-targeting therapies Phase I data showed the drug to be exceptionally safe The Phase II study is designed modularly to match available funding Cash of $4.5 million provides funding through most of 2026 Management views the company as fundamentally reset with new people and infrastructure Proactive: Welcome to Proactive Investors. Im your host, Kerry Stevenson. Today Im joined by Dr James Garner, Chief Executive Officer of Percheron Therapeutics Ltd. Were talking biotech, cancer breakthroughs, and clinical trials. Percheron is a small-cap company with a challenging past, but now has a new opportunity. What is this new drug that you believe can give the company a new beginning? Dr James Garner: Thanks, Kerry. Its great to be here. Over the last six to eight months weve brought in a new drug called HMBD-002, which is a cancer drug. There are a couple of things that attracted us to it. First, its an immunotherapy or immuno-oncology drug. Instead of poisoning the tumour, it aims to turn the bodys immune system against the cancer. Second, the drug has already completed Phase I human trials, which means were now focused on moving into Phase II. Thats where things really get interesting for investors. Proactive: Some shareholders may still be cautious given what happened previously when a drug failed. What would you say to them about this new program? Dr James Garner: The most important thing to say is that this is a completely different drug. It has no scientific relationship to the previous asset, comes from a different source, works in a different way, and targets a different illness. Financially, the two programs are completely uncorrelated. The company itself has also changed significantly. Many people are new, and much of the companys infrastructure is new. In many ways, Percheron Therapeutics Ltd should be viewed almost as a new business. Nazrin Abdul The Nakhchivan railway project will bring significant benefits to both Azerbaijan and the European Union (EU), a representative of the European Commission told Trend, AzerNEWS reports. Recalling the January 2026 visit of Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations at the European Commission, the representative noted that high-level meetings were held in Baku with Azerbaijani ministers and officials to advance EUAzerbaijan relations and reaffirm the EUs support for efforts to normalize and strengthen regional cooperation. The discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, developing connectivity along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, and deepening energy cooperation. There is a shared interest in further developing the EUAzerbaijan partnership, particularly in areas that contribute to regional stability, sustainable economic growth, and enhanced connectivity between Europe and Asia. In this context, an agreement was reached to launch a feasibility study for the Nakhchivan railway project. This investment will translate geopolitical commitments into tangible infrastructure, strengthen the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, and deliver benefits to both Azerbaijan and the European Union, the European Commission representative said. According to the representative, a key EU priority is to support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia through confidence-building measures, while recognizing the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor for regional stability and economic integration, as well as implementing the EUs Interregional Connectivity Agenda. The representative added that within the framework of the EUs Global Gateway initiative and the Interregional Connectivity Agenda, the parties agreed to deepen cooperation in transport, energy, digital technologies, and trade. Our shared objective is to establish sustainable and reliable transport connections that promote economic opportunities, long-term cooperation, and shared prosperity across the region. Together with Azerbaijan, we share an ambitious vision for connectivity development that strengthens peace and stability, modernizes infrastructure, and unlocks the full potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. A concrete example of this cooperation is the recent agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to begin the feasibility study for the Nakhchivan railway project. This project is a key investment to improve mobility and economic flows in Azerbaijan and the wider region and is an integral part of the Trans-Caspian Corridor, with a target transit time of 15 days between Europe and Central Asia, the representative said. The European Commission also emphasized that it views the development of the Nakhchivan railway as a shared strategic priority, transforming geopolitical commitments into concrete infrastructure that can underpin lasting peace and prosperity, while complementing U.S. involvement under the Trump Peace and Prosperity Route Initiative (TRIPP). Alongside investments in hard infrastructure, we will also support the development of soft infrastructure and regulatory alignment measures in line with our Connectivity Agenda, the representative added. What if you bought property, built your dream home and moved in mortgage-free and then learned that the state wanted to tear it down to make way for a bridge, and that youd be charged rent if you tried to stay? Thats the situation for a couple who just moved into their custom-built home in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Marc and Joan Hendel had just moved there from Iowa after draining their life savings to build their dream house on a sight-unseen plot of land. They were still unpacking in March 2025 when they received a letter from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Must Read Thats when they found out that their house, along with 12 others homes and three commercial properties in the neighborhood, would be taken over by the state for the replacement of a bridge construction of the new Sagamore Bridge connecting the mainland to Cape Cod. While the state will buy them out, theyre having a hard time finding something similar to their dream home, which was custom-designed for their needs, according to Realtor.com (1). That includes two office spaces and heating and cooling systems that would reduce airborne contaminants (Joan is a lung cancer survivor). The state will take possession of their home on March 13. At that point, theyll receive compensation and then have 120 days to find a new home and move out. Otherwise, theyll have to pay rent on the house they once owned. Its an ordeal Joan described as a nightmare to Realtor.com (1). If your state is planning construction that could impact your home, heres what you need to know about what theyre allowed to do, and what you can do to protect yourself. Why the state can take your house Under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, the government can seize private property for public projects through a process known as eminent domain, so long as they provide just compensation to the property owners. (2) Theoretically, any homebuyer is at risk of losing their home to eminent domain, in which governmentstake property for public projects such as roads, utilities and bridges. And while theyre compensated, thats typically based on the propertys fair market value, without taking sentimental value or relocation costs into account (2). A Hong Kong court sentenced former media mogul Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison, handing the pro-democracy advocate the heaviest penalty ever meted out under a Beijing-imposed national security law. Most Read from Bloomberg Three judges hand-picked by the government on Monday ordered the 78-year-old to effectively spend the rest of his life behind bars for two counts of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and a separate sedition conviction. Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence, the judges said in a statement explaining the decision. The punishment well surpasses the 10-year term given to activist Benny Tai and may draw further comparison between Lai and late Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, who was sentenced to 11 years on subversion charges over his calls for democratic reforms in China. Liu died from cancer in a Chinese hospital shortly after being granted medical parole in 2017. At the risk of stating the obvious, this is effectively a life sentence, said Thomas Kellogg, the executive director of the Georgetown Center for Asian Law. Barring an effective intervention by the US or the UK, Jimmy will spend the rest of his life in prison. The landmark case has prompted intense international scrutiny as a symbol of Beijings crackdown on dissent in the once-freewheeling Chinese territory. The decision will test Western governments willingness to press for the British citizens release even as they seek to stabilize relations with China. US President Donald Trump previously appealed for Lais release to Chinese leader Xi Jinping and is expected to visit Beijing in April as the two economies seek to maintain a fragile trade truce. Trumps ambassador to China, David Perdue, characterized the issue as an ongoing conversation between the two leaders in an interview with Bloomberg Television last month. WATCH: Bloombergs Minmin Low reports from Hong Kong.Source: Bloomberg British Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocated for Lai during his landmark trip to Beijing in January. While seeking a calculated reset in ties to hedge against an unpredictable Washington, Starmer said he had a respectful discussion regarding Lais imprisonment in the former British colony. Other foreign governments have also called for Lais release, condemning his prosecution as politically motivated. They include Canada, whose prime minister Mark Carney made a fence-mending trip to Beijing last month and heralded a new strategic partnership with China. If were going to have a rally in the housing market, its going to be in the second half of the year, economist Mark Vitner told the regions commercial real estate professionals. Vitner, chief economist of Piedmont Crescent Capital, presented on market trends for Hampton Roads Association for Commercial Real Estates economic forecast luncheon in Norfolk on Jan. 27. Well-versed in the national and local economy, he spent 30 years with Wells Fargo before opening his Charlotte, North Carolina-based economic consulting firm in 2024. Home prices have fallen seven of the last eight months and right now its a buyers market for the first time in a long time, he said, referencing national data. People are buying homes a little bit below the asking price. New home sales have gotten a bigger lift, thanks to generous builder incentives, he said. Builders are relieved that price cuts have brought buyers, but they still worry about mounting supply. There are still a lot of delays coming out of the pandemic, he said. So cycle times on single-family homes were longer. The number of new homes for sale across the country fell slightly for the fifth month in a row, sliding back to 488,000 homes in October, but was 1.7% higher than the year before, according to the National Association of Realtors. The presentation slide showed that October new home sales remained solid, up 18.7% from 2024. Despite the uptick, Vitner said homes sales really need to continue to improve to say that housing has improved. Taking a look at the commercial real estate market, Vitner said it outperformed low expectations last year. Return-to-the-office has helped a little bit, he said. But were not back to where we were pre-pandemic for full return-to-the-office. Office vacancy rates have come down a little bit, and in most markets across the country, there is not a whole lot of new class A space available, he said. Office vacancy rates in the region are about half the national level and lower than peer regions. Notably, Vitner said, in all his years in the business, hes never heard the words and construction will begin immediately until now, following the announcement of new office buildings. Hampton Roads hasnt had a whole lot of new office development, he said. Looking at the apartment market, there were a lot of deliveries last year with pretty strong absorption, he said. Part of that was that the single-family market was soft, Vitner said. Were probably close to seeing that the vacancy rate is topping out there. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is one of the 12 Best Oil and Gas Stocks to Buy Right Now. On February 2, HSBC raised its price target on Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) from $169 to $180 but downgraded its rating from Buy to Hold. According to the research note, this update comes despite the research firms continued positive view of the companys mix of cash flow growth and financial discipline. HSBC analyst Kim Fustier pointed to Chevron Corporations (NYSE:CVX) year-to-date gains in share price as the main reason for the downgrade. The analyst noted that the stocks valuation is stretched thanks to the rally, which has been supported by hopes around Venezuela and higher oil prices. HSBC also noted that Chevron Corporations (NYSE:CVX) projected 2026 distribution yield of 7.2% is now lower than that of European competitors. HSBC Downgrades Chevron (CVX), JPMorgan Stays Positive Photo by Luis Ramirez on Unsplash Also on February 2, JPMorgan raised its price target on Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) from $176 to $181 and kept its Overweight rating. JPMorgan highlighted the companys attractive investment cycle phase after it concluded the HES merger. The firm also noted that the companys structural cost reduction efforts are expected to deliver $3 billion to $4 billion in annual run-rate savings by 2026. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is a major American energy company that produces crude oil and natural gas. It also manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives. While we acknowledge the potential of CVX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 Best AI Software Stocks to Buy Right Now and 11 Most Profitable Cheap Stocks to Invest In Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. A $1.25m settlement has been agreed between Hyatt Corporation and the Texas Attorney Generals office over online hotel pricing practices that were alleged to mislead consumers. The civil agreement, announced on 30 December 2025, resolves claims that Hyatt violated consumer protection rules by marketing hotel rooms at headline rates that did not include all mandatory charges. The settlement is part of a broader regulatory focus on hotel price transparency and the disclosure of mandatory resort fees in online room bookings. Hyatts case marks a continuation of enforcement efforts targeting drip pricing practices in the hotel sector. Allegations and terms of settlement The Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, filed a lawsuit against Hyatt in 2023, asserting that the global hotel company violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act by failing to show all fees upfront when consumers searched for room rates online. At issue were mandatory charges added to the cost of a stay including resort fees, destination fees or amenity fees that were only disclosed later in the booking process. The agreed settlement requires Hyatt to disclose all mandatory fees clearly in its pricing, so consumers can compare total room costs before completing a reservation. The terms are intended to curb practices that could give an unfair advantage to companies obscuring fee disclosures compared with competitors that show total prices upfront. Paxton said that consumers should not be misled by hidden charges and that companies will face penalties if they fail to comply with pricing transparency standards. Context of enforcement trend in the hotel industry The Hyatt settlement is the sixth reached by the Texas Attorney General in recent years on similar pricing issues involving online hotel reservations. Previous agreements have involved major hotel groups and booking platforms, including Marriott, Choice Hotels, Hilton, Omni and Booking.com. These cases reflect growing scrutiny from state regulators and consumer advocates on practices often described in industry reporting as junk fees or hidden resort fees mandatory charges not immediately visible in initial advertised rates. The trend aligns with broader legislative and regulatory attention in the United States on pricing transparency, including federal rulemaking aimed at requiring total cost disclosure before booking and state laws targeting deceptive advertising practices. Implications for hotel pricing and online booking For the hotel sector, the settlement reinforces expectations that pricing must be transparent and include all mandatory components at the point of search and sale. Key Insights Institutions' substantial holdings in Watches of Switzerland Group implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price A total of 16 investors have a majority stake in the company with 51% ownership Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock We've found 21 US stocks that are forecast to pay a dividend yield of over 6% next year. See the full list for free. Every investor in Watches of Switzerland Group PLC (LON:WOSG) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 84% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. And institutional investors saw their holdings value drop by 7.8% last week. Needless to say, the recent loss which further adds to the one-year loss to shareholders of 14% might not go down well especially with this category of shareholders. Often called market movers", institutions wield significant power in influencing the price dynamics of any stock. As a result, if the decline continues, institutional investors may be pressured to sell Watches of Switzerland Group which might hurt individual investors. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Watches of Switzerland Group. Check out our latest analysis for Watches of Switzerland Group LSE:WOSG Ownership Breakdown February 9th 2026 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Watches of Switzerland Group? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. We can see that Watches of Switzerland Group does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Watches of Switzerland Group's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. LSE:WOSG Earnings and Revenue Growth February 9th 2026 Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Watches of Switzerland Group. BlackRock, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 7.7% of shares outstanding. The second and third largest shareholders are Capital Research and Management Company and The Vanguard Group, Inc., with an equal amount of shares to their name at 5.2%. Additionally, the company's CEO Hugh Duffy directly holds 3.6% of the total shares outstanding. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate: We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model . Does the February share price for MTU Aero Engines AG ( ETR:MTX ) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! Analyst price target for MTX is 419 which is 28% below our fair value estimate Story Continues After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (1.7%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 5.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2035 (1 + g) (r g) = 1.6b (1 + 1.7%) (5.8% 1.7%) = 40b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 40b ( 1 + 5.8%)10= 23b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is 31b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of 381, the company appears quite undervalued at a 35% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. XTRA:MTX Discounted Cash Flow February 9th 2026 Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at MTU Aero Engines as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 5.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.955. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. View our latest analysis for MTU Aero Engines SWOT Analysis for MTU Aero Engines Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is not viewed as a risk. Weakness Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Aerospace & Defense market. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the German market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the German market. Looking Ahead: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For MTU Aero Engines, we've put together three fundamental items you should look at: Financial Health: Does MTX have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Future Earnings: How does MTX's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the XTRA every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) is among the 10 best American defense stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On February 2, Jefferies raised its price target on the stock to $295 from $290, while reiterating a Buy rating. The firm said it had revised the companys model following the announcement of fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 results on January 27. Jefferies Reiterates Buy on The Boeing Company (BA) Following Q4 Results Jordan Tan / Shutterstock.com The planemakers quarterly revenue grew 57% year over year to $23.95 billion, exceeding estimates of $22.6 billion. Diluted earnings per share stood at $10.23, compared to a loss of $5.46 per share in the prior year. The return to profitability was primarily driven by the completion of Jeppesens $10.6 billion sale during the quarter, coupled with strong aircraft production and deliveries. Another highlight of the quarter that has buoyed investors is the companys generation of positive free cash flow. Without the Jeppesen sale, The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA)s loss per share would have far exceeded the 39 cents loss forecasted by analysts, since the aircraft maker reported heavy losses in two major divisions, of $632 million in Commercial Airplanes and $507 million in Defense, Space & Security, which reflect the complications still facing the business. In other news, on January 29, the company was awarded a contract to build an additional four MH-139A helicopters for the U.S. Air Force. This builds on a $173 million win in September for 8 aircraft, lifting the total value of the award to over $262 million. The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) is a leading aerospace company that manufactures commercial airplanes, space systems, and defense equipment for customers in more than 150 countries. While we acknowledge the potential of BA as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 12 Most Profitable NASDAQ Stocks to Buy Right Now and 10 Best Defense Stocks to Buy in the S&P 500. Disclosure: None. You can find original article here WealthManagement. Subscribe to our free daily WealthManagement newsletters. A U.S. district court magistrate has recommended that Stifels motion to vacate a nearly $133 million arbitration award be denied, according to a court filing. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority arbitration award, issued about a year ago, concerned former Stifel broker Chuck Roberts investments in structured notes. The firm argued that the clients were sophisticated and understood the risks. On Friday, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Floridas Magistrate Judge Eduardo I. Sanchez said the award should hold, arguing that the arbitration panel didnt exceed its authority by awarding punitive damages, that Stifel was not denied due process, and that the panel did not refuse to hear evidence. We disagree with the Magistrates recommendation, which is just the first step of judicial review of a runaway arbitration award that resulted from a biased and unfair FINRA process, said Neil Shapiro, spokesman for Stifel, in a statement. We believe the award cannot be sustained for multiple reasons as clearly laid out in our filings. The Jannetti family (including David, Sarah Lyn, Adam and Leah) brought the claim, and the arbitrators mammoth award far exceeded the $5 million in damages the claimants requested. FINRA opted for such a massive sum because it believed Stifel had actual knowledge of the wrongfulness of the conduct and knew there was a high probability the Jannetti family would face damage. However, despite knowing this, the firm allegedly intentionally pursued the course of conduct. These examples of egregious conduct included overconcentrating the Jannettis accounts in structured notes and accounts in limited industries, as well as disregarding Stifels own investment philosophy in the Jannettis accounts. (Structured notes are generally investments, often debt, coupled with a derivative component that ostensibly provides downside protection.) In this case, the Jannetti family filed a cross-motion for post-award prejudgment interest and sanctions against Stifel for pursuing a frivolous challenge. Sanchez argued that the family is entitled to post-award prejudgment interest, but that monetary sanctions are not warranted and should be denied. The parties have until Feb. 20 to file any written objections to his recommendations. Stifel has had a string of settlements and arbitration awards involving Roberts, a former Stifel rep who was barred from the industry in July for failing to cooperate with FINRA's investigation into client complaints alleging recommendations of unsuitable investments. In January, the firm paid an additional $850,000 to settle another arbitration claim related to the former brokers sales of structured notes. The firm faces 23 pending customer disputes. Often, the first tactic is to deny the claim and hope the consumer goes away. That statement came from Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, who had recently shed some light on how car manufacturers deal with warranty claims after a Pennsylvania couple had theirs wrongly denied. As CBS News reports, Jamie and Debbie Rekasies 2019 Kia Optima came with a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. But when the engine failed at 80,000 miles, the couple says the automaker insisted the car was not properly maintained and rejected their warranty claim (1). The Rekasies, on the other hand, believe their vehicle was properly maintained, and they have the receipts to prove it. Must Read This story points to a worrying development, as many car owners likely dont realize their warranty claims can be denied over things like insufficient documentation, or that consumer protection laws are on their side. Heres what you need to know about your rights under federal warranty law and how you can challenge a denied warranty claim for your vehicle. I have records As they explained to CBS News, the Rekasies believe they did everything right when it comes to vehicle maintenance. I have records, said Jamie. Fourteen oil changes, two sets of brakes, two sets of tires. However, Kia reportedly still refused to pay for replacing the engine after the Rekasies provided the receipts. The couples son, who is a mechanic, performed the oil changes on the car, but Kia claims the receipts provided did not include the vehicle's VIN number or odometer reading, which led the automaker to deny the warranty claim on the basis of insufficient information. Kia also stated the oil changes that the couple received went against its coverage policy; as the company shared with CBS News, Kia only approves home oil changes if the receipts list the vehicle mileage, the date, quantity of oil and an oil filter. The laws protecting car owners The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law designed to protect consumers for a variety of products, including vehicles (2). Its designed to ensure that manufacturers honor their warranties fairly and even stipulates that if a consumer sues a company for failing to uphold their warranty, the manufacturer will also have to pay the consumers legal fees if their case is successful (3). NEW YORK (AP) It's been a confusing time for people with student loans. Collections restarted, then were put on hold. At the same time, borrowers had to stay on top of changes to key forgiveness plans. Last year, the long-contested SAVE plan introduced by the Biden administration ended with a settlement agreement. President Donald Trumps Big Beautiful Bill introduced new borrowing limits for graduates and raised challenges to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. While several changes for student loan borrowers will take effect this summer, other key questions remain unresolved. More than 5 million Americans were in default on their federal student loans as of September, according to the Education Department. Millions are behind on loan payments and at risk of default this year. Borrowers "genuinely struggle to afford their loans and then to hear that the administration is making it more expensive and taking away some of the tools and resources that help folks afford their loans is really, its panic-inducing, said Winston Berkman-Breen, legal director at Protect Borrowers. Last month, the Education Department announced that it would delay involuntary collections for student loan borrowers in default until the department finalizes its new loan repayment plans. The date for this is still unclear. If youre a student loan borrower, here are some key things to know: If you were enrolled in the SAVE plan The SAVE plan was a repayment plan with some of the most lenient terms ever. Soon after its launch it was challenged in court, leaving millions of student loan borrowers in limbo. Last December, the Education Department announced a settlement agreement to end the SAVE plan. What is next for borrowers who were enrolled in this repayment plan is yet to be determined. Seven and a half million borrowers who are currently enrolled in SAVE need to be moved to another plan, Berkman-Breen said. As part of the agreement, the Education Department says it will not enroll new borrowers, deny pending applications, and will move all current SAVE borrowers into other repayment plans. The Education Department is expected to develop a plan for borrowers to transition from the SAVE plan, yet borrowers should be proactive about enrolling in other repayment plans, said Kate Wood, a lending expert at NerdWallet. If you are looking to enroll in an income-driven repayment plan Borrowers can apply for the following income-driven plans: the Income-Based Repayment Plan, the Pay as You Earn plan, and the Income-Contingent Repayment plan. Kroger named former Walmart executive Greg Foran as its chief executive officer on Monday, 11 months after the abrupt resignation of its previous CEO. Foran has a reputation as a tech-savvy and detail-oriented leader. He led Walmart's U.S. division from 2014 to 2019, where he focused on cleaning up stores, ensuring items were in stock and improving the fresh produce selection. He also introduced online ordering and pickup, and accelerated Walmart's digital capabilities. Walmart has reshaped itself into a tech-powered retail giant that has leaned heavily into automation and artificial intelligence, and it's one of the biggest competitive threats to Kroger, the largest standalone U.S. supermarket chain. Shares of The Kroger Co. rose nearly 7% in early trading Monday after Kroger said Foran would lead the company. Walmart has become a larger challenge to Kroger and other traditional grocers as Americans increasingly pick up their groceries along with other general goods that Walmart sells. Walmart currently controls around 21% of the U.S. grocery market, compared to 8.5% for Kroger, according to the market research company Numerator. Kroger has also felt pressure from fast-growing discount chains like Aldi and Lidl and online behemoths like Amazon. Kroger proposed a merger with Albertsons in 2022 as a way to better compete with its rivals. But the Federal Trade Commission and two states Washington and Colorado sued to block the merger in 2024, saying it would raise prices and lower workers wages by eliminating competition. Judges ultimately ruled that the merger should not proceed. Kroger has struggled to adjust as customers increasingly embrace delivery, pickup and ship-to-home for their groceries. The company said in December that its e-commerce sales jumped 17% in the latest quarter. In November, Kroger shuttered automated fulfillment centers in Wisconsin, Maryland and Florida and said it would monitor its five remaining facilities. The company said it found that delivering directly from its stores was faster and cheaper than using the automated facilities, where robots pick and pack groceries. Kroger said the closures could help make its e-commerce business profitable this year. Kroger also recently expanded its partnerships with the third-party delivery services DoorDash and Uber Eats. For years, Kroger had limited what third parties could deliver and instead tried to meet demand with its own delivery drivers. But Kroger has also found that it needs to tread carefully when experimenting with new technology. When some of its stores switched to digital price labels, which allow stores to change prices instantly, state and federal lawmakers questioned whether the company would use the technology to surge prices. Kroger shares jump on appointment of new CEO Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock Kroger Co (NYSE:KR, XETRA:KOG) shares added more than 6% on Monday morning following the grocery chain's announcement that Greg Foran has been named as its new CEO. Foran succeeds Ron Sargent, who had served as interim CEO since March 2025, and will also join Krogers Board of Directors. Foran brings more than 40 years of experience leading complex consumer businesses through periods of growth and digital transformation, according to Kroger. He spent six years leading Walmart US, overseeing a turnaround of the companys largest division, driving 20 consecutive quarters of positive comparable sales growth, and managing over 4,600 stores and one million associates. Most recently, he served as CEO of Air New Zealand, guiding the airline through digital transformation, operational challenges, and union negotiations during the pandemic. Greg is a highly respected operator who knows how to run large-scale retail businesses, strengthen store execution, and lead high-performing teams, Sargent said. His leadership style, focus on the customer, commitment to associates, and disciplined approach to execution are the perfect fit for Kroger. Foran described Kroger as one of the most dynamic companies in retail. The company is built on a strong foundation, supported by a talented leadership team, and caring associates who are dedicated to the customers and communities they serve, he said. At this moment in Kroger's journey, I can honestly say this is the best job on the planet. Additionally, the company reaffirmed its previously issued fiscal year 2025 guidance. Jefferies analysts view Forans appointment favorably, reaffirming their Buy rating and $80 price target, implying upside from levels of $67.50 at their time of writing. Given his operational track record, we view the appointment favorably, as KR enters a transitional period, reshaping its ecomm strategy and stepping up value investments as it competes notably with Mr. Forans former employer, the analysts wrote. They highlighted Forans previous success at Walmart US, where he led a turnaround and accelerated digital initiatives, as a positive indicator for Kroger as it navigates e-commerce strategy shifts following the closure of three Ocado facilities. The analysts added that these exits are expected to contribute roughly $400 million to operating profit, with much of that earmarked for reinvestment, giving Foran flexibility to pursue his strategic agenda. At the same time, Jefferies cautioned that Kroger faces broader headwinds, including pressures on lower- and middle-income consumers, GLP1related volume changes, SNAP eligibility updates, and shifting shopping channels. Even so, they said, KR should have sufficient cash flow to support meaningful near- to medium-term investment, creating an opportunity to accelerate Mr. Forans strategic agenda and set up KR to be a stronger competitor moving forward. Key Takeaways Kyle Samani, co-founder of Multicoin Capital, criticized Hyperliquid as everything wrong with crypto, citing its closed-source code and permissioned design. Members of the crypto community strongly disputed his claims. They pointed to Hyperliquids rejection of venture capital, large-scale airdrop, and revenue-based buybacks. Arthur Hayes publicly challenged Samani to a $100,000 bet on Hyperliquids token performance, underscoring confidence in the platform. Multicoin Capital co-founder Kyle Samani has publicly criticized Hyperliquid, calling it everything wrong with crypto. His remarks, posted on X, accused the platform of operating in a closed-source, permissioned manner and of being contrary to the core principles of decentralization. Samanis comments quickly ignited backlash across the crypto community. Critics then questioned both the substance of his claims and the timing of his remarks. Samanis Criticism Follows Departure From Multicoin In his post, Samani argued that Hyperliquid embodies structural flaws in the crypto industry, citing governance concerns, a permissioned validator set, and the platforms closed-source architecture. Hyperliquid is in most respects everything wrong with crypto, he wrote. He also alleged that Hyperliquid enables illicit activity, including crime and terrorism, without providing specific evidence. Samani further criticized the background of Hyperliquid founder Jeff Yan. He frame his relocation from the United States to a more crypto-friendly jurisdiction as regulatory evasion rather than innovation. The remarks drew particular attention, given reports that Multicoin Capital had acquired more than $40 million worth of Hyperliquids native token, HYPE, in late January, based on on-chain data analysis. This fueled speculation that internal disagreements over Hyperliquid and broader investment strategy may have contributed to Samanis departure. Historically, Samani has been a vocal supporter of Solana (SOL) and has emphasized transparency, decentralization, and open-source development as guiding investment principles. His criticism of Hyperliquid focused heavily on what he described as centralized design choices that conflict with cryptos permissionless ethos. Hyperliquids Growth and Market Position Since launch, Hyperliquid has seen rapid adoption. The platform has generated more than $960 million in revenue and conducted what is widely regarded as the largest token airdrop in crypto history, valued at approximately $9 billion. Hyperliquid vertically integrates spot and derivatives trading via its HyperEVM blockchain. Kyndryl Holdings said finance chief David Wysher had left the company, along with general counsel, Edward Sebold. - Jon Simon/Feature Photo Service for Kyndryl Shares of Kyndryl Holdings lost more than half their value after the companys chief financial officer left amid a review of accounting practices following an inquiry from the Securities and Exchange Commission The information-technology-services infrastructure provider on Monday said finance chief David Wysher had left the company, along with general counsel, Edward Sebold. The company also cut its guidance for the year after posting third-quarter results below Wall Street expectations. Most Read from The Wall Street Journal Shares were down nearly 57% in recent trading to $10.18. The New York-based company said its audit committee was reviewing its cash-management practices and related disclosures, including regarding the drivers of its adjusted free-cash-flow metric, as well as the efficacy of its internal control over financial reporting, according to a filing with the SEC. The review came after the SECs enforcement division requested certain documents from the company. Kyndryl said that while it doesnt expect the review to result in a restatement or other impact to its financial statements, it will delay filing its quarterly report with the SEC and expects to report material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting for fiscal 2025 and the first three quarters of fiscal 2026. The company said it needs more time to finalize its quarterly report, which covers the fiscal third quarter ended Dec. 31, adding that it is developing a remediation plan that it will outline in the report. Kyndryl Chief Executive Martin Schroeter declined to comment further on the companys earnings call. The fact is we just cant comment until the examination is complete, he said. The teams are working expeditiously so we can share a remediation plan. He added that the companys fiscal 2028 goals remain intact. For its latest quarter, Kyndryl posted an adjusted profit of 52 cents a share on revenue of $3.86 billion, shy of the 60 cents a share and $3.89 billion, respectively, that analysts had penciled in. The company said it now expects its full-year revenue to fall by 2% to 3% in constant currency, after previously forecasting a 1% rise. It also cut its full-year guidance for adjusted pretax income and free cash flow. MEININGER Hotels has announced the opening of a new property in Dublin's Liberties district in April 2028, continuing its expansion in the UK and Ireland. Comprising a partnership with Salamisso Developments, the seven-floor hotel will cover 8,163m and features 232 rooms across seven floors, offering a total of 811 beds. It will have 91 quadruple, 75 double, 33 triple, and 33 six-bed rooms, aligning with the company's adaptable room concept. MEININGER Hotels CEO Ajit Menon said: The new location in Dublin strengthens our position in the British and Irish market and is an important component of our European growth strategy. With the new property, we are responding to the strong demand and limited capacity in the local hotel sector. Together with Salamisso Developments, we aim to offer our guests an attractive, centrally located accommodation at a fair price. The hotel's location provides convenient access to transport. It is situated near Vicar Street and the National College of Art and Design. Heuston Station, a short walk away, offers connections to regional and national trains, as well as the Luas tram. Salamisso Developments managing director Frank Gilmer said: This project responds to strong demand for high-quality, well-connected accommodation while supporting the ongoing revitalisation of one of the citys most historic neighbourhoods. MEININGERs innovative hybrid hotel concept is a strong fit for Dublins diverse visitor base, and we look forward to working closely with their team to bring this quality and exciting development to life, ensuring that it makes a positive and lasting contribution to the area. This new Dublin location marks MEININGER's ongoing expansion, following openings in Edinburgh, Barcelona, Strasbourg, Kiel, Tel Aviv, Madrid, and Porto. With 36 existing hotels, the company aims to increase its presence to 50 locations across Europe. "MEININGER Hotels to expand with new Dublin opening in 2028" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. British supermarket chain Morrisons is considering a property-backed financing deal that could unlock up to 1bn ($1.36bn). The grocer has asked the US-based real-estate services company CBRE to examine ways to raise funds against part of its store estate, sources told Sky News. According to the report, the review remains at an early stage and is not expected to involve a traditional sale-and-leaseback, a structure long used by major UK supermarket chains. Among the possibilities being explored is medium-term to long-term borrowing secured on a selection of supermarkets. The amount raised could reach 1bn, though neither the eventual format nor scale has been fixed. Morrisons operates approximately 500 supermarkets across the UK and has a workforce of around 95,000. It was taken private in 2021 by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) in a transaction valued at nearly 10bn, including debt. Results have been uneven since the buyout, and Aldi moved ahead of Morrisons last year, pushing it into fifth place among UK grocery chains by sales. To stabilise the business and reverse the downward trend, Morrisons appointed former Carrefour executive Rami Baitieh as its chief executive in 2023. A source cited in the report said that unlocking 1bn through a sale-and-leaseback or other leverage-based transaction would still leave Morrisons owning around 60% of its stores outright. The retailer has been reducing borrowings taken on during CD&Rs acquisition and still has about 1bn of takeover finance outstanding. The source added that with no near-term debt maturities, there is no immediate pressure to complete a property deal. During the 2021 bidding process, CD&R pledged not to carry out major freehold disposals for a limited period. Morrisons property activity has since largely focused on selling non-store assets. In 2024, the group partnered with Song Capital, which paid 370m for the right to receive income from 75 supermarkets for 45 years. Retail Insight Network has contacted Morrisons for a comment. Last month, Morrisons reported results showing what it described as strong Christmas trading. "Morrisons explores 1bn property-backed financing options report" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. Feb 9 (Reuters) - Elon Musk said on Sunday that SpaceX has shifted its focus to building a "selfgrowing city" on the moon, which could be achieved in less than 10 years. SpaceX still intends to start on Musk's long-held ambition of a city on Mars within five to seven years, he wrote on his X social media platform, "but the overriding priority is securing the future of civilization and the Moon is faster". Musk's comments echo a Wall Street Journal report on Friday, which said SpaceX has told investors it would prioritize going to the moon and attempt a trip to Mars at a later time, targeting March 2027 for an uncrewed lunar landing. This marks a shift from Musk's long-standing focus on Mars as SpaceX's primary destination. As recently as last year, he said the company aimed to launch an uncrewed Mars mission by the end of 2026. "No, we're going straight to Mars. The Moon is a distraction," he said in January last year in response to a post on X. Musk has a long record of setting ambitious timelines for projects such as electric vehicles and self-driving technology that have repeatedly failed to materialize on schedule. RACE WITH CHINA The U.S. faces intense competition from China to return humans to the moon this decade. Humans have not visited the lunar surface since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972. Less than a week ago, Musk announced that SpaceX acquired the artificial intelligence company he also leads, xAI, in a deal that values the rocket and satellite company at $1 trillion and the artificial intelligence outfit at $250 billion. Proponents of the move view it as a way for SpaceX to bolster its plans for space-based data centers, which Musk sees as more energy efficient than terrestrial facilities as the demand for compute power soars with AI development. SpaceX is hoping a public offering later this year could raise as much as $50 billion, which could make it the largest public offering in history. On Monday, Musk said in response to a user on X that NASA will constitute less than 5% of SpaceX's revenue this year. SpaceX is a core contractor in NASA's Artemis moon program with a $4 billion contract to land astronauts on the lunar surface using Starship. "Vast majority of SpaceX revenue is the commercial Starlink system," Musk said. On Sunday, Musk shared the company's first Super Bowl ad, promoting its Starlink Wi-Fi service. Even as Musk reorients SpaceX, he is also pushing his publicly traded company, Tesla, in a new direction. After virtually building the global electric vehicles market, Tesla is now planning to spend $20 billion this year as part of an effort to pivot to autonomous driving and robots. The News Nigerian energy companies have ramped up oil production over the past year as the government intensifies its efforts to restart dormant refineries and monetize untapped gas reserves. Indigenous companies now control assets that produce more than half of Nigerias oil production, according to operators and government officials. Renaissance Africa Energy, a consortium of mostly local firms that took over the operation of onshore oil assets from Shell a year ago, has doubled output from its facilities from a base of about 100,000 barrels per day, Nigerias junior oil minister told an industry gathering last week in Abuja. Reviving the energy sector has been a top priority of Nigerian President Bola Tinubus administration as it tries to rapidly grow an economy rocked by two recessions in the last decade. The government push came after several multinationals fled the countrys onshore oil and gas scene in recent years due to rampant theft along pipelines that have in turn strained crude output and created uncertainty. Pipeline sabotage has also stifled government revenues. Since ending subsidies on imported petrol three years ago, Tinubus administration has implemented policies aimed at enabling local players to ramp up production and incentivizing international partners to make new investments offshore. Last month, the government launched a plan to monetize the nations gas reserves, which are the largest in Africa. And state oil company NNPC is holding talks with independent companies to take over the operation of the governments moribund refineries, NNPC chief Bayo Ojulari said, including one last week with a Chinese petrochemical plants builder. The big positive change in Nigerian energy in the last three years has been that there are now targeted frameworks in place to ensure speedier contracting timelines and better fiscal structures, said Clementine Wallop, an analyst at a New York-headquartered consultancy Horizon Engage, adding that a new cohort of energy regulators has sent favorable messages to investors. Know More Those investors include Shell, which has invested $7 billion in two projects in Nigeria within the past year and is planning future commitments, according to its global CEO Wael Sawan. We are working on a project that could see us invest around $20 billion in capital and operating expenses, Sawan told Tinubu last month. The project Bonga South West is located in the deep waters of the Niger Delta region and is expected to produce 150,000 barrels of oil per day. Local energy players are pursuing new opportunities too. Heirs Energies became the largest shareholder in Seplat, a Lagos- and London-listed competitor that is one of Nigerias biggest oil producers, in a $500 million deal last month. Heirs had raised $750 million from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in December to finance the expansion of its own oil producing facility to 100,000 barrels per day within five years, more than doubling the assets capacity when it was bought from Shell in 2021. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) is one of the best affordable long term stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On February 5, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) said it would take legal action against Hims & Hers after the telehealth company announced plans to sell compounded versions of Wegovy at $49 per month. Novo Nordisk called the move illegal mass compounding that threatens patient safety and said it would pursue legal and regulatory steps to protect patients and its intellectual property, noting it is the only maker of an FDA-approved Wegovy pill using SNAC technology for oral semaglutide absorption. Novo Nordisk (NVO) Faces Pricing Pressure While Defending Wegovy Franchise and Advancing Oral GLP-1s Pixabay/Public Domain On February 4, Novo Nordisk A/S warned that unprecedented pricing pressure would cause sales and profits to fall for the first time in years. According to the company, the pricing pressure will affect its weight-loss drug Wegovy and related diabetes treatments. It said the pressure comes from increasing competition and aggressive negotiations by healthcare payers, which are pushing drug prices lower. The company pointed to increased competition from similar GLP-1 weight-loss treatments, including drugs from Eli Lilly. Regarding healthcare payer negotiations, the company said that government programs and private insurers are demanding deeper discounts and tighter reimbursement terms. Reuters reported separately on February 4 that Novo Nordisk announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a pill version of Ozempic. The FDA approved Ozempic tablets in three doses for adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control, the company stated. The company added that it has filed a supplemental drug application for a fourth (higher) dose and that the FDA will pronounce itself by the end of this year. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) is a Danish healthcare company specializing in diabetes care, obesity treatments, and rare disease therapies. Its core products include insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and weight management drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic. While we acknowledge the potential of NVO as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 12 Best Consumer Goods Stocks Billionaires Are Quietly Buying and Goldman Sachs Penny Stocks: Top 12 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. UK-based Ocado is considering cutting as many as 1,000 roles as part of a renewed drive to curb costs after a challenging year for its automated warehouse division, reported The Times. The potential cuts would amount to approximately 5% of the companys worldwide headcount. Discussions are said to be at an early stage, and no final decision has been made. A source cited in the report said the company could make an announcement as soon as this month. Most of the affected positions would be based at Ocados UK head office, including technology jobs and back-office roles across legal, finance and human resources. The group is due to release its annual results later this month and last month reiterated its ambition to become cashflow positive in the next financial year. In the previous year, it disclosed plans to eliminate 500 technology and finance roles after carrying out 1,000 redundancies across the business in 2023-2024. The business supplies robot-operated warehouse systems to supermarket chains and operates an online grocery joint venture with Marks & Spencer. Its two major customers in North America have recently announced closures of several customer fulfilment centres. Kroger said in November 2025 that it would shut three sites, while Canadas Sobeys confirmed plans last month to close a facility in Calgary, citing slower-than-expected growth and the scale of the local online grocery market. Mutual exclusivity agreements between the group and most retailers using its technology expired in December, prompting analysts to caution that recent events could complicate future partnerships. The company expects to secure hundreds of millions of pounds in compensation linked to the warehouse closures, but it has remained loss-making since launch, with annual pre-tax losses narrowing to 374.5m ($509.88m) from 393.6m in 2024. "Ocado weighs up to 1,000 job cuts report" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. Oil edged higher after the US advised ships to steer clear of Iranian waters when navigating the Strait of Hormuz, reviving a risk premium that had ebbed in recent days amid nuclear talks. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 1.3% to settle above $64 a barrel after the US Department of Transportation said in a maritime advisory on Monday that American-flagged ships should stay as far as possible from Iranian waters. The agency cited a recent incident in which Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps harassed a US-flagged tanker as it was transiting through the waterway last week. Most Read from Bloomberg The guidance stoked investor fears of a short-term disruption in the vital Hormuz chokepoint, through which about a third of the worlds oil flows, as well as a broader conflagration in the oil-rich Middle East region. Iran has threatened to close Hormuz during times of geopolitical tension. The development reversed bearish momentum that followed pledges by Iran and the US to continue talks following what they described as positive discussions in Oman on Friday. Tehran said the session aimed at defusing tensions over the Islamic Republics nuclear program was a step forward. US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly threatened Tehran with airstrikes, said there would be another meeting this week. The US leader is also due to see Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Feb. 11, while preparing tariffs against countries doing business with Tehran. Crude has pushed higher this year despite widespread concerns about a looming glut, with gains supported by geopolitical tensions as well as halts to some flows, including from Kazakhstan. Still, prices fell last week on signs of progress between Iran and the US. India Flows Traders were also looking at oil flows to India. The countrys imports of Russian oil are expected to drop by about half from already weaker recent levels, according to people with direct knowledge of the purchases, after Trump said the South Asian nation agreed to halt crude imports from Moscow as part of a trade deal. However, New Delhi has yet to directly confirm the commitment, with the government emphasizing that energy security remains its top concern. WATCH: Macquaries Vikas Dwivedi discusses the outlook for oil prices and what he calls a looming risk of supply disruptions.Source: Bloomberg If India stops Russian oil purchases following the US-India trade deal, we would need to see Russian oil discounts widening in an effort to find alternative buyers, said Warren Patterson, head of commodities strategy at ING Groep NV. Failing to find other takers would ultimately mean a tighter balance, he said. SINGAPORE, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Oil prices fell more than 1% on Monday as fears of a Middle East conflict eased after the U.S. and Iran pledged to continue indirect talks about Tehran's nuclear programme, calming worries about potential supply disruptions. Brent crude futures fell 84 cents, or 1.2%, to $67.21 a barrel by 0747 GMT on Monday, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped 82 cents, or 1.3%, to $62.73. "With more talks on the horizon, the immediate fear of supply disruptions in the Middle East has eased quite a bit," IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said. Iran and the U.S. pledged to continue the talks following what both sides described as positive discussions on Friday in Oman. That eased the concern that a failure to reach a deal might nudge the Middle East closer to war, as the U.S. has positioned more military forces in the area. About a fifth of the world's oil consumption passes through the Strait of Hormuz between Oman and Iran. Both oil benchmarks fell more than 2% last week as tensions eased, their first decline in seven weeks. However, the foreign minister of Iran said the country will strike U.S. bases in the Middle East if it is attacked by U.S. forces, showing the simmering threat of conflict. "Volatility remains elevated as conflicting rhetoric persists. Any negative headlines could quickly reignite risk premiums in oil prices this week," said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova. Investors are also grappling with Western efforts to curb Russia's income from oil exports that support its war in Ukraine. The European Commission on Friday proposed a sweeping ban on any services that support Russia's seaborne crude oil exports. Refiners in India, once the biggest buyer of Russia's seaborne crude, are avoiding purchases for delivery in April and are expected to stay away from such trades for longer, refining and trade sources said, which could help New Delhi seal a trade pact with Washington. "Oil markets will remain sensitive to how broadly this pivot away from Russian crude unfolds, whether Indias reduced purchases persist beyond April, and how quickly alternative flows can be brought online," Sachdeva said. (Reporting by Florence Tan and Sudarshan Varadhan; Editing by Jamie Freed, Christian Schmollinger and Neil Fullick) Among the much-anticipated ads that aired during the Super Bowl on Sundayfor everything from Dunkin and Budweiser to Nerds and Expediaone spoke directly to parents. Dear America, said a little girl in the first frame, followed by a series of other kids who continued, in quick succession, with, If I start investing when Im 16, 9, 7, it could change my future. More kids offered a promise: This year, every American child gets an investment account, and millions will be pre-funded. Thats free money. More from SheKnows The spot, from nonprofit Invest America (founded by Republican strategist Matt Lira) is pushing a new kind of investment plan for parentsthe 530A, or so-called Trump accountafter being established with bipartisan support as part of 2025s tax bill. But how does it work? Heres all you need to know. What Are Trump Accounts? Theyre essentially tax-advantage investment accounts for kids, explains Lindsey Stanberry, founder of the womens personal finance newsletter the Purse and newly partnered advisor with Babylist Money, a vertical launched Friday that helps parents understand child-specific savings options. I think that the best way to think about them in terms of other financial products out there is they work a lot like an individual retirement account. Any parent with a child under 18 can sign up for onewhich you can do starting on July 5thand those with a baby born during Trumps second term will receive a $1,000 deposit from the government. From there, families have the freedom to contribute up to $5,000 per year. The contribution limit, and the fact that its tax-deferred, says Stanberry, makes these like similar to IRAs. But there are also rules on how and when the money can be spent. With a 530A account, your child cant access the money until they turn 18, and even then, its only for certain expenses, like buying a home or paying for education or a business, she says. Or they can just keep it invested. The big goal is that they wouldnt really touch this money until they reach retirement age, she adds. And the idea is that it has decades to grow and compound, so they wouldnt have to save as much in the short term, because they can save a little over a long term. An additional 25 million kids who are 10 or younger and living in low-income areas will also be eligible to receive money in their accountslump sums of $250because of a $6.25 billion donation from Michael and Susan Dell. But at this point its still unclear which kids, exactly, would qualify, says Stanberry. What If You Cant Afford to Add Anything More to the $1,000? Will that money still be helpful? Of course, says Stanberry. I mean, $1,000 is a lot of money. Does it solve all the problems? No. But I dont think that we should underestimate how much $1,000 is, and that if you leave it in this investment account and allow it to just compound, with a conservative 6% [growth rate], by 18, theyll have $2,000 which is not nothing. If they leave it longer, it will continue to grow. I think that sometimes in this conversation, people get hung up on the idea that $1,000 especially $1,000 you cant use right now doesnt feel very exciting. But if you saw $1,000 laying on the street, you would be thrilled. Still, as Jean Chatzky, personal finance expert and founder and CEO of HerMoney Media, explains in a recent TikTok, Where these get powerful is if additional money is added to the accounts. How Are They Different From 529 Accounts? While theyre similar in a lot of ways, as both can be used for education expenses. But a 530A, the goal is to ideally use it for retirement. You are also taxed on your earnings when you take out the money. With a 529, you dont pay taxes when you take out money to pay for qualified educational expenses, says Stanberry. You are also able to put a much higher amountupwards of $200,000 depending on the stateinto a 529 each year. So those are like really magical accounts, allowing you to save much more. Plus, she says, You can front load them and never think about them again. Which Is Better, a 529 or a 530A? The benefit of a 529 over a Trump account is that the money comes out tax-free, says Chatzky. If youre not sure that your child is going to want to go to college, thats definitely something to consider, because in that case youre going to pay a 10% penalty on your proceeds, she says. Although you do have the ability to eventually roll up to $35,000 into a Roth IRA. Deciding between the two, Chatzky recommends the 529 if youre pretty sure that college is in your kids future. If not, she says, this is a very nice option. As is double dipping, adds Stanberry If you have the means, theres no reason that you cant have a 529, and a Trump account, she says. I dont think that theres a reason not to try to do both. Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While making a mistake with your finances is common, whats less common is having someone else take advantage of your slip-up. But Americans should be aware of the risks, especially as reports of fraud are on the rise. The Federal Trade Commission reports that in 2023, only 27% of people who reported fraud said they lost money. In 2024, that figure jumped to 38% (1). The overall cost: $12.5 billion. Must Read Fraud can happen in the most ordinary circumstances. Take Christl. She recently moved to a different apartment in the same building but forgot to update her address with her bank. Her new debit card was delivered to her old address, and the new tenant began using it. Though she has reported the fraud to her bank, shes wondering what else she should do to protect herself. Here are a few tips for what she needs to know and how you can protect your own bank account from fraud. Why debit card fraud is a major pain Debit cards are a prime target for scammers, according to the Federal Reserve Financial Services (2). About 73% of financial institutions surveyed said debit cards were the top payment method for fraud attempts in 2024, and fraudulent debit card transactions were also the most expensive for financial institutions to reimburse. Unlike credit cards, debit cards are directly tied to a persons bank account, meaning unauthorized charges can drain your cash quickly. Another risk: if you dont report fraud right away, you could be responsible for the unauthorized transactions, either up to $50 or the full amount, U.S. News reports (3). How debit card crime works While theft of a physical card, like in Christls case, is less common, there are other ways to access your debit card information. These include card skimming devices on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals, data breaches on the dark web or unauthorized access to your bank account, such as on a public computer. Debit cards are a more attractive target to fraudsters than credit cards because victims have fewer consumer protections under federal law. They give thieves immediate access to cash, and many people keep higher balances in checking accounts than their daily credit card limits. While credit card companies monitor for fraud closely, some banks may not check debit card transactions as diligently. Orion Minerals is set to secure a $250m binding prepayment facility from Glencore to support the development of its Prieska Copper Zinc Project in South Africa. The agreement, executed through Orion's subsidiary, Prieska Copper Zinc Mine (PCZM), involves the sale of bulk copper and zinc concentrates, facilitating the Uppers Development and partially funding the Deeps Development at the project. This marks a significant advancement in Orions move towards full operational status. The prepayment facility, first announced in September 2025, comprises two tranches. Tranche A provides $40m for the construction and start-up of the Uppers section of the project. Tranche B offers $210m for the Deeps, with an option for an early drawdown of up to $50m if certain conditions are met. Glencore's return on the prepayment is market-related and includes a reduction in rates once commercial production begins. The facility allows repayment at any time without penalty. Settlement of the facility will occur through the delivery of copper and zinc concentrates per linked offtake arrangements. The agreement holds first-ranking security alongside other secured lenders of PCZM, with Orion guaranteeing PCZM's obligations under the facility. Furthermore, several conditions must be met before proceeding, including obtaining approvals from the South African Reserve Bank and other regulatory bodies. An updated intercreditor agreement between Glencore, Triple Flag, and the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa is required. Additionally, linked offtake agreements for both Uppers and Deeps bulk concentrates must be concluded with Glencore. Completion of work scope and expenditure allocation for Uppers is also necessary. For Tranche B activation, Glencore must secure non-recourse funding from third parties for its prepayments. Orion Minerals managing director and CEO Tony Lennox said: This is a landmark agreement for Orion. Tranche A will fund the Uppers Development while the early drawdown of Tranche B will allow us to start work on the Deeps. We expect first production from the Uppers 13 months after closing of the Prepayment Facility, which is now expected around the end of March 2026 due to a short delay in finalising this agreement and the delivery timing of long lead time equipment orders. Consequently, first concentrate is now expected at the end of Q1 2027. "Orion to secure $250 funding from Glencore for Prieska project" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. Namibia has stated it will not recognize the recent offshore stake acquisition by Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. - Petrobras PBR and TotalEnergies SE TTE until the companies comply with the countrys statutory approval process. Government officials clarified that no transaction involving petroleum licenses can be considered valid without a formal application and ministerial consent. A spokesperson for the presidency confirmed that the deal announced by the companies remains unrecognized until all prescribed legal procedures are completed. Details of the Luderitz Basin Acquisition On Friday, TotalEnergies and Brazils state-run Petrobras announced that each had acquired a 42.5% stake in the PEL104 exploration license in the offshore Luderitz Basin. The interests were purchased from Maravilla Oil & Gas and Eight Offshore Investments Holdings, with TotalEnergies set to operate the asset. The acquisition would strengthen TotalEnergies presence in Namibia, where it aims to become the countrys first oil producer by the end of the decade. Petrobras Strategic Return to Namibia For Petrobras, the deal marks a return to Namibia as part of its broader strategy to expand exploration activities beyond Brazil. The company said the investment aligns with its 20262030 business plan and its goal of replenishing oil reserves through frontier exploration. Petrobras, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), has identified Africa as a key growth region, with Namibia, Angola and Nigeria among its focus countries. This approach represents a shift from earlier strategies that prioritized divestment in Africa to concentrate on Brazils pre-salt assets. Government Raises Procedural Concerns Namibias Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy said it was not properly notified of the transaction, as required by law. According to the ministry, officials were informed of the planned announcement only minutes before it was made public. The ministry reiterated that any transfer or acquisition of participating interests in petroleum licenses must receive prior approval from the energy minister to be legally valid. Companies Acknowledge Regulatory Requirements Both TotalEnergies and Petrobras acknowledged that the transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals. The companies stated that the deal would proceed in line with Namibian law and all relevant regulatory requirements. The remaining stakes in the license are expected to be held by Namcor Exploration and Production with 10%, and Eight Offshore with 5%, while Maravilla Oil & Gas exits the asset. Phoenix Copper shares drop after suspension of chairman and finance chief Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock Shares in Phoenix Copper Ltd (AIM:PXC, OTCQX:PXCLF, FRA:5HR) fell 45% to 1.1p after the US-focused base and precious metals producer said it had suspended its executive chairman and chief financial officer with immediate effect. In a stock exchange statement, Phoenix said chair Marcus Edwards-Jones and CFO and company secretary Richard Wilkins were subject to the suspension. Investors were told the board had begun investigations into allegations relating to the recent conduct of Edwards-Jones and Mr Wilkins and to certain historic payments made to Lloyd Edwards-Jones S.A.S., the companys former corporate finance adviser. Phoenix, which owns assets in the US, said the process was being carried out with input from its professional advisers and that a further announcement would be made once they had concluded. The company said interim financial oversight arrangements had been put in place while it progressed the appointment of an interim chief financial officer. Phoenix said the interim arrangements would be supported by Catherine Evans, chair of the audit committee, Ryan McDermott, the chief executive, and other board members and senior management. The company said it would outsource the company secretary role to a corporate services firm recommended by its advisers while the investigations were ongoing. Phoenix said it had limited working capital and, without additional funding, believed its current cash balances would be sufficient to meet ongoing obligations only until early Q2 2026. It said it was considering a range of short-term and longer-term funding options and would update shareholders on its fundraising strategy in due course. Phoenix said discussions with Riverfort Global Opportunities PCC Limited on the terms of its short-term loan facility were continuing and that shareholders would be updated once those talks had concluded. Carmakers initially pitched plug-in hybrids as a bridge toward electrification. Now, several models have been discontinued. Stellantis has led the pack, cutting five plug-in hybrids. A new kind of electric-gas combination powertrain is getting a ton of investment from US automakers. US automakers are still building electric vehicles and rolling out gas-powered trucks. But plug-in hybrids once pitched as a compromise between gasoline cars and fully electric vehicles are quickly disappearing from American showrooms. Plug-in hybrids combine a cord-chargeable battery with a gasoline engine, allowing drivers to travel short distances on electricity alone before switching to gas on longer trips. Unlike conventional or "mild" hybrids, which use small batteries to assist a gasoline engine and don't get an electrical socket, plug-in hybrids were designed to cut fuel use without requiring a full commitment to an EV. Despite years of promotion, that powertrain is now being phased out across much of the industry, leaving several major automakers without any plug-in hybrids in their US lineups. "Consumers really don't seem to like them," Kevin Roberts, the director of market intelligence at CarGurus, told Business Insider. "The sales figures are low and declining." In January, year-over-year sales of plug-in hybrids fell 51.8%, according to CarGurus data. That happened while mild-hybrid sales jumped by 12.7%. For months, the average sticker price of plug-in hybrids has continued to climb, even as demand waned. The average plug-in hybrid listed for $70,565 in January 2026, up from $62,079 a year earlier. As demand has weakened and prices have risen, automakers have begun pulling plug-in hybrids out of their US lineups. A Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid Jeep The most dramatic retrenchment has come from Stellantis. Over the past year, the automaker has canceled or discontinued several plug-in hybrid models, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Alfa Romeo Tonale hybrid, and Dodge Hornet R/T. Stellantis told Business Insider it is focusing instead on "more competitive electrified solutions, including hybrid and range-extended vehicles." Ford is ending production of the Escape and Lincoln Corsair including their plug-in hybrid variants leaving the automaker without any plug-in hybrids in its American lineup. Kia has ended US sales of the Niro plug-in hybrid. Last year, Volvo stopped US production of the S60 and V60 Recharge, including their plug-in hybrid variants, as part of "normal lifecycle planning," the company told Business Insider. After opening up with big gains following the announcement of its fiscal third-quarter results, e.l.f. Beauty (NYSE: ELF) did a complete 180 to trade decisively lower. However, this surprising reversal after outstanding results and increased guidance looks like a golden opportunity to buy the stock. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue Image source: Getty Images. Sales jump For its fiscal Q3, ended Dec. 31, e.l.f. Beauty sales soared 38% year over year to $489.5 million, easily topping the analyst consensus of $460 million, as compiled by LSEG. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS), meanwhile, surged 68% from $0.74 to $1.24, besting the $0.72 analyst consensus. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) jumped 79% to $123 million. Organic growth, excluding its acquisition of Rhode, rose 2%. However, total consumption climbed 6%, including 8% in the U.S. Meanwhile, its namesake brand took 130 basis points of share in the mass cosmetics market in the quarter. Rhode contributed $128 million in revenue in the quarter, bolstered by its launch at Sephora, which is owned by LVMH. U.S. revenue rose by 36%, while international revenue climbed 44%. However, it said it was seeing weak consumption in the U.K., while noting it also lapped its launch into the German market through Rossmann stores. Looking ahead, e.l.f. raised its full-year fiscal 2026 guidance, with sales now expected to increase 22% to 33%, up from a prior expectation of 18% to 20% growth. Below is its updated outlook. Metric Prior Fiscal 2025 Outlook Updated Fiscal 2025 Outlook Net sales $1.55 billion to $1.57 billion $1.6 billion to $1.612 billion Adjusted EBITDA $302 million to $306 million $323 million to $326 million Adjusted EPS $2.80 to $2.85 $3.05 to $3.10 Data source: e.l.f. Beauty. The company credited its improved outlook largely to Rhode, which it now expects to contribute $260 million to $265 million in revenue, up from initial expectations of $200 million. E.l.f. is currently looking to launch Rhode in both Australia and New Zealand. It will also introduce its Naturium brand into Walmart in the U.S. this spring. Its namesake e.l.f. brand is also set to get more shelf space at Ulta Beauty this spring and launch at DM in Germany. Meanwhile, the company said that if tariffs remain where they are at 45%, it could be a tailwind in fiscal 2027. Vertical Aerospace Ltd (NYSE:EVTL) is one of the best NYSE penny stocks to buy now. On January 21, Vertical Aerospace Ltd (NYSE:EVTL) announced the availability of its Valo electric aircraft in the US for the first time. The company has launched a tour in New York, alongside plans for air taxi routes in and out of Manhattan. Revolutionizing City Travel: Vertical Aerospace (EVTL) Launches Zero-Emission Air Taxi Routes in New York rommma/Shutterstock.com The aircraft is designed to fly up to 100 miles at speeds of 150mph with zero emissions. The company is already exploring use cases, including airport transfers, connecting JFK to Manhattan, event travel to MetLife Stadium, and leisure travel to East Hampton. Chris Bradshaw, President and Chief Executive of Bristow Group, said: Exploring future eVTOL use cases in a market like New York allows us to apply that operational experience to new, sustainable aviation concepts as the technology and regulatory environment continue to mature. Earlier, on January 7, William Blair initiated coverage of the stock with an Outperform rating, impressed by the companys strategic positioning in the emerging urban air mobility market. The research firm has echoed the companys edge with Valo eVTOL, offering substantial luggage capacity critical for airport passenger transportation. Vertical Aerospace Ltd. (NYSE:EVTL) is a British aerospace manufacturer based in Bristol that designs and builds zero-emission, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company focuses on developing its flagship piloted, four-passenger electric aircraft, the VX4, aiming to revolutionize urban mobility by making it quieter, cleaner, and faster. While we acknowledge the potential of EVTL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: Top 10 Materials Stocks to Buy According to Analysts and 10 Best Organic Food and Farming Stocks to Buy Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Underscoring the benefits of focusing our resources on areas with greater long-term potential. Our core color category was a standout performer at Sally, with year-over-year growth of 8%. For Sally US and Canada, color was also up 8%, and we saw a meaningful increase in color customer count, which increased 3% fueled by our performance marketing and personalization initiatives, as well as ongoing momentum in our licensed Colors on Demand platform. Additionally, our entry into the fast-growing fragrance category was met with a positive response. In November, we introduced fragrance in our top 1,000 Sally US stores, and strong demand drove out-of-stocks in the latter weeks of the quarter. We are pleased to see performance strengthen in December as the government reopened, and in turn, our Sally US and Canada business delivered positive comparable sales growth of 1.3% for the quarter. Of note, in the quarter, we did exit substantially all of our lower margin full-service operations in Europe. This represents a positive strategic shift for our business as it simplifies our operations and allows us to concentrate on driving growth within our core store and omnichannel businesses. While this exit will result in a modest sales headwind, approximately $10 million, to full year 2026, it is not expected to have a material impact on operating profit. Strong gross margins of 51%, careful cost control, and benefits from our Fuel for Growth program resulted in outperformance on the bottom line, with adjusted diluted earnings per share increasing 12% to $0.48. We also generated strong cash flow from operations of $93 million, which we deployed towards investing for growth, further strengthening our balance sheet with $20 million of debt pay down, and returning value to shareholders through $21 million of share repurchases. In our Sally segment, while our customers remained choiceful, they demonstrated overall resilience in a challenging macro environment. Denise Paulonis: Thank you, Jeff, and good morning, everyone. Our first quarter financial performance marks a strong start to fiscal year 2026. We achieved top-line results and adjusted operating income at the high end of our expectations and adjusted diluted earnings per share above our guidance range. Through focused execution in the service of our customers, we delivered total sales of $943 million, with comparable sales flat to last year. Reflecting our ability to navigate and rebound from the macro volatility we saw during the quarter, most notably from the government shutdown. Story Continues On the digital side, our ecommerce sales grew 20% in the quarter. This performance was powered by marketplaces, as well as positive trends across key categories, including color, hair, and styling tools, and reflects robust performance throughout the Black Friday, Cyber Monday weekend. Turning to our BSG segment, top-line results were roughly flat, with both net sales and comp sales down 20 basis points to last year as stylists continued to buy closer to need and seek value. Spending trends softened in tandem with the government shutdown but rebounded nicely in December. While stylists' appointment books were relatively busy, their customers were more cautious in their spending with some pullback in add-on services. We are pleased to have delivered healthy gains in key categories and brands, highlighting the innovation and value we bring to our stylists. As our teams continue to execute against our four key growth drivers, we remain focused on delivering consistent performance with a business that is resilient and positioned for long-term growth. Now I'll provide an update on our strategies and discuss our near-term initiatives. Our first strategy, understanding and activating the customer, is focused on acquisition, retention, and share of wallet. At Sally, our Save While You Skip the Salon campaign that we launched in Q1 is resonating with customers. Additionally, as we continue to drive new customer acquisition, we're continuing to run that in Q2. From our performance marketing, CRM, and personalization initiatives, we are pleased to see expanding customer counts among the millennial and Gen Z cohorts. We believe there is a meaningful opportunity to grow our brand with these important customer cohorts that embrace color trends, hair health, and DIY. Our brand marketing strategy also includes licensed Colors on Demand, which continues to drive strong economics and serve as a powerful customer acquisition tool. Of note, customers acquired through LCOD spend two times more than customers acquired through other means over their first year with us. And our existing customers that engage through LCOD show a lift of over 25% in their annualized spend. With that level of impact, we are pleased to see that in Q1, the number of new and reactivated customers continued to grow, and we averaged approximately 5,000 weekly consultations. Moreover, we recently launched a new care consultation strategy, which is gaining traction quickly in the New Year and is expected to help drive long-term improvement in care category performance. Looking now at BSG, we are implementing new personalization and journey optimization strategies to deepen engagement with our stylists. While BSG is in the early innings relative to Sally in this area, we are already seeing our efforts make a difference in two places. First, we use targeted offers to drive strong reactivations of customers that had previously lapsed, and we have plans to expand our targeted offers as we move through the next few quarters. Second, we are partnering with our brands to drive more effective and direct communication with our stylists, and we saw several key brands drive significant growth in customer counts in the quarter, like Schwarzkopf, Color Wow, and Major Jones. Moving now to our second strategy, unlocking and harvesting digital value. Ecommerce sales were up 20% in the Sally segment and up 4% in the BSG segment in the quarter. With strong ecommerce sales momentum in both business segments, our teams are focused on leveraging our existing capabilities and strengthening our digital foundation to drive increased engagement and conversion. In fiscal Q1, we saw broad-based ecommerce gains across categories at Sally, fueled in part by our marketplaces strategy. The upgrade of our Sally app is underway and will continue to roll out in the coming quarters, which will improve the user experience and reduce friction. Notable enhancements include coupon clarity and loyalty transparency, so value is more visible, easier to interpret, and actionable at the right moments, as well as a more efficient search engine for easier product discovery. At BSG, during the quarter, we launched Apple Pay to reduce friction at checkout, introduced inventory near me functionality, and created a favorites category for our stylists, enabling quicker discovery of frequently purchased items. In addition, we're on track to roll out substantial updates to the BSG app in the coming months. The updates are designed to deliver an improved user experience, faster payment checkout, and enhanced capabilities around education, AI, and personalization. The changes will begin to roll out to our stylists this spring. Turning to our third strategy, differentiating with product assortment and innovation. In the Sally segment, we are quite pleased to see that our customers have given us permission to participate in the fragrance category. In our second quarter, we're expanding to another 1,000 Sally locations and expect to end the quarter with fragrance in 2,000 stores. On the own brands front, the Q1 relaunch of Texture ID is bringing customers back to the brand and building momentum. Looking ahead, we have more brand refreshes and innovation coming throughout the year. At BSG, we have some exciting launches planned for fiscal 2026. Earlier this month, we introduced Milkshake and Keratin Complex, brands that are well-loved by stylists and bring exciting innovation to BSG. We brought Milkshake to 225 US stores and ecommerce with products across both color and care. And Keratin Complex launched in 525 of our US stores, full service and ecommerce, deepening our participation in the glossing and straightening trend. We're also excited about upcoming expansion in key brands where we already have strong momentum, including Moroccan Oil, Danger Jones, and K18. Now to discuss our fourth strategy, accelerating new growth pathways. I'll start with our Sally Ignited initiative, which encompasses both physical and digital refreshes, category and brand expansion, and immersive experiences focused on discovery and community. During fiscal Q1, we completed eight store refreshes, bringing us to 38 locations and putting us on track to have approximately 80 Sally Ignited stores in the market by the end of 2026. We're pleased to see positive KPIs in our Ignited stores, reinforcing that we are on the right path. Let me share a few details. First, from a customer perspective, we are seeing a mid to high single-digit increase in new and reactivated customers. Second, on the sales front, UPT and ATV continue to trend above the rest of the fleet, with customers spending more time in-store and cross-shopping categories at an increased rate. Notably, this stronger performance is especially evident in our larger format stores, where expanded skincare and cosmetics assortments have contributed to even stronger basket growth. We'll continue to use fiscal 2026 to refine the program as we look towards scaling the rollout in fiscal 2027. In the BSG segment, we are advancing our initiatives to enter the skin and spa category with testing underway. Currently, we have two brands in 250 stores, and we activated marketing in the first quarter as well. We are focused on building awareness within the skincare community and will continue to roll out campaigns targeting estheticians in the coming quarters to drive consideration and conversion. Turning now to an update on Happy Beauty. Our recent merchandising and marketing initiatives are proving successful and contributed to strong holiday season results. Our mall locations outperformed, with indie brands leading the way across key categories, including cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance. Building on the traction we saw in our mall locations, we are actively at work on our Happy Beauty ecommerce site that will launch later this fiscal year, and we continue to evaluate the optimal path forward for brick and mortar. More to come in the quarters ahead. While continuing to fuel the top line through these four growth drivers, our teams are also remaining laser-focused on driving profitability unlocks via our Fuel for Growth program and ongoing financial discipline. We're in year three of the program, which is expected to be an important contributor to gross margin profitability in fiscal 2026. We're tracking to capture approximately $45 million of benefits this year, putting us at total cumulative run rate savings of $120 million by the end of fiscal 2026. We are grateful to our talented teams and remain confident in our path forward. We are committed to driving durable growth and building long-term shareholder value in the quarters and years ahead. Now I'll turn the call to Marlo to discuss the financials. Marlo Cormier: Thank you, Denise, and good morning, everyone. Our first quarter results reflect the benefits of our strategic initiatives and disciplined execution. We are pleased to deliver net sales and adjusted operating income at the high end of our expectations and adjusted diluted earnings per share above our guidance. Q1 consolidated net sales totaled $943 million, up 0.6%, and included 90 basis points of favorable impact from foreign currency translation while operating 38 fewer stores compared to the prior year. Consolidated comparable sales were flat, which is in line with our expectations and reflects positive comps of plus 1% at Sally US and Canada, partially offset by the full-service exit in Europe that Denise previously mentioned, as well as a 20 basis point comp decline at BSG. Global ecommerce sales increased 11% to $111 million and represented 12% of total net sales. We delivered healthy gross profit in the quarter, with adjusted gross margin expanding 50 basis points to 51.3%. The year-over-year improvement is primarily attributable to higher product margin in both business segments, driven by the benefits of our Fuel for Growth program. Turning to expenses, Q1 adjusted SG&A totaled $404 million, reflecting a modest increase of $6 million to last year. Higher costs across labor and other compensation-related expenses, rent, and advertising were partially offset by $4.5 million in Fuel for Growth benefits in the period. During Q1, we captured $14 million of pretax Fuel for Growth benefits to both gross margin and SG&A, and remain on track to capture full-year fiscal 2026 benefits of approximately $45 million. Our teams are continuing to act with rigor and discipline, putting us on track to deliver cumulative run rate savings of about $120 million by fiscal year-end. Moving down the P&L, the combination of healthy gross margins and careful cost control enabled us to deliver strong bottom-line results. Adjusted operating income of $80 million is at the high end of our expectations. Adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.48, which increased 12% last year, came in above our guidance range. Turning now to segment results, Sally Beauty net sales increased 1.2% to $532 million, which included 160 basis points of favorable impact from foreign currency translation while operating 33 fewer stores versus a year ago. Comparable sales were essentially flat, up 10 basis points to last year. Comparable transactions were down 1%, and average ticket was up 1%. For the global Sally Beauty segment, color increased 8% while care declined 6% versus prior year. Sally ecommerce sales grew 20% to $50 million and represented 9% of segment net sales for the quarter. In addition, ecommerce sales for Sally US and Canada grew by 28%. Gross margin in our Sally segment increased 20 basis points to 59.8%, driven primarily by higher product margin from benefits of our Fuel for Growth program. Segment operating margin came in at 14.7%. Looking at the BSG segment, net sales totaled $412 million, a decrease of 20 basis points. Comparable sales were also essentially flat, coming in down 20 basis points. Comparable transactions were down 1% while average ticket was flat. From a category perspective, color increased 4%, and care was flat. BSG ecommerce sales increased 4% to $60 million, representing 15% of segment net sales for the quarter. Gross margin at BSG expanded 90 basis points to 40.2%, primarily reflecting higher product margins from the benefits of our Fuel for Growth program. Segment operating margin was strong, coming in at 13.1%, up 90 basis points to last year. Turning to the balance sheet and cash flow, we ended the quarter in strong financial condition with $157 million in cash and cash equivalents and no outstanding borrowings under our asset-based revolving line of credit. Inventory levels totaled $979 million, down 3% versus last year. First quarter cash flow from operations totaled $93 million, and free cash flow came in at $57 million. During the quarter, we utilized excess cash to repay $20 million of term loan debt, bringing our net debt leverage ratio to 1.5 times. We also deployed $21 million of cash to repurchase 1.4 million shares of stock under our existing share repurchase program. Turning to our fiscal 2026 outlook, on a full-year basis, we are raising the low end of our EPS guidance as we flow through our Q1 beat. We are reiterating the rest of our full-year guidance, which now includes the following: consolidated net sales in the range of $3.71 to $3.77 billion, which includes approximately 50 basis points of favorable impact from foreign currency rates; comparable sales flat to up 1%; adjusted operating earnings of $328 to $342 million; adjusted diluted earnings in the range of $2.02 to $2.10 per share, up from a prior range of $2 to $2.10, and assumes that 50% of free cash flow goes towards share repurchases. Capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $100 million, and free cash flow is expected to be $200 million. In addition, we expect our store count to be approximately flat, including about 40 new stores, 40 store closures, and about 50 relocations. For Q2 2026, we expect the following: consolidated net sales in the range of $895 to $905 million, which includes approximately 100 basis points of favorable impact from foreign currency rates; comparable sales up 0.5% to 1.5%. Given the soft comparison to Q2 of last year, we expect this to be our strongest comp sales quarter of fiscal 2026. Adjusted operating earnings of $68 million to $71 million. In our Q2 guidance, we are returning to a more normal quarterly pattern for SG&A, with overall SG&A dollars expected to remain relatively consistent from Q1 2026 to Q2 2026. It's worth noting that Q2 last year benefited from unusually favorable foreign currency impacts that have since reversed, as well as timing shifts in incentive compensation, advertising, and IT as we managed through last year's sales headwind. Looking over a two-year period, we expect SG&A growth in Q1 and Q2 to be similar, reflecting stable underlying expense trends. Adjusted diluted earnings in the range of $0.39 to $0.42 per share. We appreciate your time this morning. Now I'll ask the operator to open the call for Q&A. Thank you. Our first question comes from the line of Oliver Chen with TD Cowen. Your line is now open. Oliver Chen: Hi, Denise and Marlo. On the BSG customer relative to the Sally customer, it sounds like the BSG customer is somewhat value-focused. Would love your take on comparing and contrasting what trends are happening there and the health of your consumer. Also, you have a lot of really exciting initiatives ahead, including fragrance and Sally Ignited. What are your thoughts on fragrance and other categories as a percentage of sales over time as a big nice opportunity, and we're seeing such a compelling structural growth there? And on Sally Ignited, the KPIs look really robust. What's holding you back from the timing of rolling those out? Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Morning, Oliver. Let me start with unpacking a little bit about what's going on with the customer. So on the Sally side of the house, the Sally customer was resilient. They really responded well to initiatives like LCOD, marketing marketplaces, innovation, and with color comps up 8%, we felt really good about where that business was. Of course, there was a minor disruption there through the government shutdown, which did hinder results a bit. But even with that, Sally US and Canada posted a 1.3% growth in the quarter. Where we are seeing that customer be a bit more choiceful is in discretionary categories like styling tools, still looking for value, and really being disciplined in where they shop in places like the care category. On the BSG side of the house, I think two trends. One, similar to Sally, where we did see slower business around the government shutdown but saw that recover nicely in December. We did also see our stylists tell us that while they were busy, their customers were being a little bit more choiceful with add-on services. So, all in all, we think the customer in general is healthy. We're navigating through pluses and minuses that happen out there, but feeling good overall about where we are with them. On the initiatives front, you specifically called out new categories. Really pleased with fragrance in Sally. So we were in a thousand stores as we went through the holiday period. We'll be in another thousand stores for a total of 2,000 stores in pretty short order. The customer's loving, kind of a high-end value offering is what I would say. So a bit of a dupe-focused strategy, but one that is resonating well. How high is high? I don't think we know yet. We're certainly navigating and testing our way through that. And then as I mentioned in particular with the ignited remarks, as we're pushing further into cosmetics and skincare, we're pleased to see that our customer is really giving us permission to play in a targeted way in those categories, often something that maybe they won't find in maybe some other mainstream beauty stores. So, once again, haven't sized it yet, more to come as we continue to test and learn there, but feeling really good about where we're headed. And finally, absolutely, very excited about Sally Ignited. What we saw as we've had these stores now open a bit longer in terms of both new customer and reactivated customer accounts as well as ATV and cross-shopping in the categories is certainly giving us momentum behind our plans. We think it's important this year to stay pretty disciplined to get these test stores, the next 50 stores up and running and really hone the model. But we're certainly prepared to accelerate into FY 2027 assuming that everything that we're seeing now continues to bear fruit. Oliver Chen: Okay. And a follow-up. On the comp guidance, how do you see that manifesting between traffic and ticket? You had some nonrecurring, hopefully nonrecurring headwinds this quarter. Just would love your thoughts on risk factors on the comp guidance and why it can even be better than what you're forecasting? Denise Paulonis: Yes. I think when you think about Q2, we guided 0.5% to 1.5% comp for the quarter. When we look at that, we are lapping a softer quarter last year when there were so many transitory impacts. When we think about what's leaning towards the positive, I think the underlying momentum in the Sally initiatives, whether that is LCOD, marketplaces, innovation, performance marketing, personalization, and then on the BSG side, continued strength in color as we also see in Sally, but also innovation with Keratin Complex and Milkshake coming online. And we think we're really well positioned for the quarter. We hope that there could be a little help from tax refunds, but until we see how that manifests itself across income groups and how people used to spend money, that could be a little bit of upside. And then these new categories that we're playing in, whether that be skin and spa on the BSG side or fragrance in the early steps into skincare and cosmetics, could be a little bit of upside on the business as well. Thank you. Best regards. Thank you. Our next question comes from the line of Susan Anderson with Canaccord Genuity. Your line is now open. Alec Legg: Hi. Good morning. Alec Legg on for Susan. Thanks for taking our question. I'm just curious, how was the promotional environment over the holiday versus maybe initial expectations? And how should we think about promotions heading into Q2 and for the rest of the year? Denise Paulonis: Yes. So value continues to be important on both our Sally and our BSG sides of the house, no doubt about that. Promotional levels were up slightly year over year in both segments. With that, we maintained a very strong gross margin over 51%. So kind of all factored into our plans and activities. But we do see those customers leaning in when there's an offer that is resonating with them, and we saw that within the competitive set on both sides of our business as well. What we're also monitoring is how we think about flexing to what the consumer wants. So beyond just leaning in on promotion, I think we're very focused on the right messaging about value, and I spoke a little bit about Save While You Skip The Salon and that campaign resonating very well on the Sally side of the house as another element of communicating value. When we go into Q2 here, I don't think there's any real material changes in trends. We don't expect it to be a highly promotional period. Certainly haven't seen that yet. Alec Legg: Thanks. And then just a quick follow-up on fragrance. I guess what type of customers are shopping fragrance at Sally? Are they existing customers just adding it to their basket while shopping online or in-store? Or maybe is it helping bring in a new customer base? Denise Paulonis: Early days. I'd say right now because of the way that it came to market in-store, it's going to be more customers that would already have been shopping with us. We have not done a heavy marketing push through performance marketing or things like that to a new customer base. So far so good with the customers that are coming in, and we'll continue to expand that communication to a broader set of potential customers as we expand to 2,000 stores here very shortly. Alec Legg: Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Our next question comes from the line of Olivia Tong with Raymond James. Your line is now open. Olivia Tong: Great. Thanks. Good morning. I apologize I was on a little bit late. But so I hope my questions haven't been answered. But first, just short term looking at the Q2 outlook, last year, you had a lot of illness hitting results. You had mentioned in the past that stylists and customers had to postpone appointments. So could you just put that in context to the Q2 outlook that you just provided, which would suggest that at least on top line a little bit better than on a year-over-year basis against an arguably weak comp and an EPS sort of plus or minus flattish. Just trying to understand how much of this is timing, anything that looked to be hitting harder this quarter versus a year ago, just to put some context around the Q2 outlook. Thanks. Denise Paulonis: Sure. So I'll start on the sales front. When you think about the top line, we are lapping our softest quarter of last year. So clearly, there is a bit of a tailwind from that. But overall, we think the business is performing well on both sides of the house. We're excited about where we are with the Sally consumer and engagement with the Sally US Canada business up 1.3% comps in Q1. We expect momentum to be strong and continue. And BSG with the strength of color behind it also anticipates good news there. We, of course, have just rolled through a pretty recent weather event, which is also always factored into our guidance as we know it. So that is in our numbers as well. And then I think when you turn further down the P&L, we still expect very positive gross margins in the business coming through. And then we articulated in the prepared remarks a bit of color about SG&A, where we really do have a bit of a timing shift there. SG&A last year really benefited from two sets of factors. First, foreign exchange was very favorable, which has since reversed. And then we had timing shifts last year on expense items like incentive comp, advertising, and IT as we really managed some pretty tough sales headwinds last year. So we're getting back to a normalized SG&A cadence where we expect dollars to be relatively flat from Q1 2026 to Q2 2026. And on a two-year basis, relative very modest SG&A growth consistent Q1 to Q2. So we really feel good about the trajectory for the full year. Flowing through that first quarter EPS beat, taking up the low end of the guidance. Excited to see how the rest of the year continues to unfold. Olivia Tong: Great. Thanks. And then just wanted to dig a little bit deeper into some of the ignited stores and understand the trends there relative to the base and whether you're seeing anything different or what you're seeing different in traffic and ticket in those post-Ignite stores? Thanks. Denise Paulonis: Yeah. I mentioned it a bit earlier, but I'd reiterate. I think what we're really pleased about is the economics that we're seeing overall with the Ignited stores. We think that we are seeing more new and reactivated customers coming into those stores, which is a great win for what we're exactly trying to do in terms of bringing more customers into the box. And then in terms of building value with our existing customers, seeing overall ATV up, UPT up, AUR up compared to the rest of the fleet. So customers are coming in. They're spending more time in the store, they are cross-shopping more inclusive of fragrance and cosmetics and skincare. So really good track. We like what we see and are excited to keep underway here. Olivia Tong: Great. Thank you. Best of luck. Denise Paulonis: Thank you. Our next question comes from the line of Sydney Wagner with Jefferies. Your line is now open. Sydney Wagner: Hi. Thanks for taking my question. We've seen some beauty companies report last week who adjusted down their expectations for category growth. Can you just talk about yours? Maybe have there been any changes since we last chatted? And then just kind of on a more, I guess, high-level trend piece, in thinking about the salon consumer, you know, and kind of the maybe longer frequency, longer time between visits. Is that a trend? Is that more macro-driven? Do you see any trends on the horizon maybe towards higher maintenance cuts, colors that could maybe accelerate that pacing of visits? Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Morning, Sydney. You want to think about the category growth, I wouldn't say that we've materially changed any of our expectations. Where we are seeing really nice strength is in color. In color that is expanding through regular color, vivid, blonding, just great activity in that space, and we're excited to see that continue. The care front care has been a tougher category. We had that factored in coming into the year, so probably not a change in our expectations. But it's subcategories like serums and treatments that are performing well and more traditional shampoo conditioner that feels a little bit more softness. Where we have real opportunity is real entrance into new categories. Skin and Spa on the BSG side, Fragrances on the Sally side, where it's less about our expectations on the category and more new opportunity and new business for us given that we have not materially played there before. So very excited about the trends we're seeing. And then your second question was around salon customers. What we're seeing for the folks who are sitting down in the chair. What we saw was just a little bit of pullback in the first quarter, particularly just add-on services. And then this disruption that came from the government shutdown, right? It just distracted consumers a bit, and so we saw them behave a little bit differently than they had before. But nobody really neglects their hair long term, so I think those stylist chairs are gonna stay busy over time and get to a good spot. In terms of trends, I'd say the most interesting trend right now is really around the glass and super straight look. So, you know, any product that is aimed at helping that straightening and very clean line look is what customers are looking for both at-home use as well as in the salon. Sydney Wagner: Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Our next question comes from the line of Simeon Gutman with Morgan Stanley. Your line is now open. Laureen Ng: Hi, this is Laureen Ng on for Simeon. Thanks for taking our question. So first, I just wanted to touch on the comp guide for Q2 and the implied second half. Also, assumes trends for the full year remain stable in the first half versus the second half. Can you walk us through this maybe as you're expanding into other categories and sound a little bit more positive on your initiatives? I guess why shouldn't we assume trends can materially improve into the second half of '26? Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Yeah. When we think about the comp guide for the full year, we laid out a flat to up one with where we guided the second quarter, we'll be kind of at the mid of that coming out of the first quarter. And that did reflect a little bit easier comps in the second quarter that will be lapping from last year. When we look to the second half, we're very optimistic. So once again, we think that there's plenty of opportunity for us to continue to grow with our customer base with these new categories and with the full suite of initiatives that we have around LCOD, personalization, performance marketing, our digital and marketplaces, and then innovation. So all in all trending in the right way, I think we're being appropriate and guarded in our guidance as we see some of the bumps in the road with macro is still out there. But expect the second half of the year to be continuing the momentum that we've seen in the business to date. Laureen Ng: Great. And then just a question on Sally Ignited. That also sounds encouraging with your KPIs positive. Curious if you could help us understand maybe where the comp run rate could get to based on your current remodels? Denise Paulonis: So we haven't provided all of that information yet. You know, we're evaluating the pace at which we could roll out in the future, you know, likely. These are not small remodels. These are pretty big pieces of work. So we're evaluating ranges from anywhere from 100 to 200 stores a year to be able to go and touch. And so as we do that, we would anticipate that there's a favorable tailwind as we work that program over a multi-year horizon. But I'd say more to come as I said, pretty wide range right now in terms of how we're thinking about the rollout. As we continue to evaluate performance and plans to go ahead. Laureen Ng: Okay. Great. Thank you. Denise Paulonis: Thank you. And I'm currently showing no further questions at this time. I'd now like to turn the call back over to Denise Paulonis for closing remarks. Denise Paulonis: Well, thank you for joining us all today. As always, I'm very thankful for all of our team members around the world serving our customers. We appreciate all you do through busy quarters up and down, no matter what it is. The great work you do in serving our customers is always appreciated. And we look forward to updating our shareholders on next quarter's performance in about ninety days. Operator: This concludes today's conference. Thank you for your participation. You may now disconnect. Should you buy stock in Sally Beauty right now? Before you buy stock in Sally Beauty, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Sally Beauty wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $443,299!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,136,601!* Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 914% a market-crushing outperformance compared to 195% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 9, 2026. This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Sally Beauty (SBH) Q1 2026 Earnings Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) is one of the 12 Best Oil and Gas Stocks to Buy Right Now. On February 5, Reuters reported that SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) has won a $1.5 billion contract from Kuwait Oil Company to develop the Mutriba field for five years. Under the contract, SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) will be responsible for the design, development, and production management of the Mutriba field. Oil producers across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East are looking to increase inventories, which has led to higher exploration and drilling activity. This trend is boosting demand for oilfield services in the region. Previously, in December, SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) secured a five-year contract to provide services to Saudi Arabian Oil Company (TADAWUL:2222) for its unconventional gas fields. SLB Wins $1.5 Billion Kuwait Oil Contract, Jefferies and UBS Lift PT On February 1, Jefferies increased its price target on SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) from $51 to $58 and maintained a Buy rating. Jefferies believes that the company offers a valuation that is not challenging. Earlier, on January 27, UBS also raised its price target on SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) from $50 to $61 and maintained a Buy rating on the stock. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, United States, SLB N.V. (NYSE:SLB) is a global oilfield services company. With a presence in over 100 countries, the company offers technology, information solutions, and integrated project management services that optimize reservoir performance. While we acknowledge the potential of SLB as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 Best AI Software Stocks to Buy Right Now and 11 Most Profitable Cheap Stocks to Invest In Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. US pork processor Smithfield Foods is shutting another plant in the country. The company confirmed the closure of its factory in Springfield in Massachusetts in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice filed with the state on 6 February (Friday). The filing said 190 employees would be affected by the closure. The lay-offs will take place between April and September. In a statement to Just Food, the WH Group subsidiary said the Springfield plant produces dry sausage and will cease operations in August. Production will be moved to other unnamed plants which have the capacity to make these products to our same high standards of quality, according to the statement. In July 2024, Smithfield said it would close a ham-boning facility in Altoona, Iowa, putting 314 jobs at risk. Production carried out at Altoona was moved to sites in Illinois, South Dakota and Nebraska. In October 2023, the company announced the shutdown of a pork-processing facility in Charlotte, North Carolina and the transfer of production to its Tar Heel plant in the same state. The decision impacted 107 jobs. In January, Smithfield agreed to acquire hot-dog brand Nathans Famous. It has held the licence to manufacture and sell Nathans Famous products in the US and Canada and in Sams Club stores in Mexico since 2014, with the deal running to 2032. Shane Smith, the president and CEO of Smithfield, said at the time: With our manufacturing scale, marketing strength, product innovation capabilities, and retail and foodservice channel expertise, acquiring Nathans Famous will allow us to take the brand to new heights. "Smithfield Foods to close US production plant" was originally created and published by Just Food, a GlobalData owned brand. SouthState Bank Corporation (NYSE:SSB) is one of the best affordable long term stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On January 26, Stephens analyst Russell Gunther maintained an Overweight rating on SouthState Bank Corporation (NYSE:SSB) and raised the price target to $120 from $110. The analyst cited SouthStates core pre-provision net revenue (PPNR) of $323.5 million, noting it exceeded consensus estimates by 1.5%, or $0.03 per share. Gunther said this PPNR performance came on the back of stronger net interest income and correspondent banking/capital markets fees. But this effect was partially offset by higher expenses. Is SouthState Bank (SSB) One of the Best Affordable Long Term Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds? The analyst also noted that SouthStates net interest income grew 2.7% quarter over quarter, excluding purchase accounting adjustments. And that the banks core net interest margin increased two basis points sequentially to 3.86%. This growth, Gunther said, was above consensus estimates. As a result, Gunther raised his 2026 PPNR estimate for SouthState by 1.5%. He noted the banks differentiated fee income momentum as a contributing consideration. Separately, on January 23, Raymond James raised its price target on SouthState shares to $120 from $115 and maintained a Strong Buy rating. The move was a reaction to SouthStates December-ending quarter results. Raymond James said these results were well ahead of its expectations as well as consensus estimates on core earnings per share and pre-provision revenue basis. The firm noted the banks performance reflects 39.42% revenue growth over the past twelve months. SouthState Bank Corporation (NYSE:SSB) is a regional financial services company headquartered in Florida, and operates through its subsidiary SouthState Bank, N.A. The bank provides consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth management solutions to over 1.5 million customers across the Southeast and beyond. While we acknowledge the potential of SSB as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 12 Best Consumer Goods Stocks Billionaires Are Quietly Buying and Goldman Sachs Penny Stocks: Top 12 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. A version of this article originally appeared in Quartzs members-only Weekend Brief newsletter. Quartz members get access to exclusive newsletters and more. Sign up here. Seven states have banned a product most people couldn't buy if they tried. Cultivated meat exists, technically. A handful of companies have federal approval to sell lab-grown chicken, salmon, or pork fat, but their offerings have appeared only at high-end restaurants and invite-only tastings. That hasn't stopped state legislatures from outlawing it as though it were about to replace every ribeye in the country. Now the industry is fighting back. The question isn't whether Americans will ever eat meat grown from animal cells. It's whether they'll be allowed to choose. The bans are outpacing the product itself Florida kicked things off in May 2024, with Governor Ron DeSantis declaring that he was protecting consumers from "the global elite's plan to force the world to eat meat grown in a petri dish or bugs." Alabama followed. Then Mississippi, where lawmakers unanimously passed a bill carrying penalties of up to $500 and three months in jail for anyone growing or selling cultivated meat within state lines. Texas enacted a two-year moratorium in September 2025. Indiana, Montana, and Nebraska have joined the list. Cultivated meat starts with cells taken from an animal, then grown in bioreactors with nutrients until they become muscle and fat. No slaughter required. Supporters say it could reduce the environmental footprint of livestock production, though the science on that is still evolving. The rhetoric has been consistent for the people against it. They invoke food security, traditional ranching, and vague anxieties about what it means to eat something grown in a lab instead of on a farm. Some of this language has drifted into conspiracy territory, with figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. calling cultivated meat a "catastrophe-in-the-making" and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene suggesting the government might use it to surveil citizens. The actual threat to conventional beef producers is essentially theoretical at this point. Production costs remain high, scaling remains difficult, and industry experts estimate it could take 10 to 15 years before lab-grown meat shows up widely in grocery stores. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association has publicly stated it isn't worried about marketplace competition. Some of the organization's representatives have even opposed the bans. The industry is looking for a way forward Rather than quietly accepting regulatory exile, cultivated meat companies are pushing back. TAIPEI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - It would be "impossible" to move 40% of Taiwan's semiconductor capacity to the U.S., the island's top tariff negotiator said, pushing back against recent comments by American officials who called for a major production shift. In an interview with Taiwanese television channel CTS that was broadcast late on Sunday, Taiwan Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun said she had made it clear to Washington that Taiwan's semiconductor ecosystem, built up over decades, could not be relocated. "I have made it very clear to the United States that this is impossible," she said, referring to the 40% goal the U.S. has floated. That ecosystem will continue to grow in Taiwan, Cheng said, adding that the semiconductor industry would keep investing at home. "Our overall capacity (in Taiwan) will only continue to grow," she said. "But we can expand our presence in the United States." "Our international expansion, including increased investment in the United States, is based on the premise that we remain firmly rooted in Taiwan and continue to expand investment at home." On Tuesday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the government needed to bring semiconductors to the U.S. "You can't have all semiconductor manufacturing 80 miles from China," he said. "That's just illogical ... So we need to bring it back." "When we leave office my goal, for this administration, is 40% market share in leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing." Taiwan and the U.S. reached a deal last month to lower tariffs on the island's exports to 15% from 20% and for Taiwan to increase its investment in the country. Cheng said that there would be no relocation of Taiwan's science parks, but Taiwan was willing to share its experience in building an industry cluster and help the U.S. develop a similar environment. She also said she was confident that Taiwan's semiconductor capacity - including existing, under construction and planned projects across advanced manufacturing, advanced packaging and the broader supply chain - would far exceed its investment in the U.S. or any other country. In an interview on CNBC last month, Lutnick said his goal was to bring 40% of Taiwan's entire chip supply chain and production to the U.S. He said that if this does not happen, tariffs on Taiwan would likely rise to 100%. In September, Lutnick told U.S. television network NewsNation that Washington's pitch to Taiwan would be a 50-50 split in making chips, the vast majority of which are now made on the island. By Kamal Choudhury Feb 9 (Reuters) - Privately held Iambic said on Monday it has entered a multi-year partnership worth more than $1.7 billion with Japan's Takeda Pharmaceutical to use artificial intelligence to help design small-molecule drugs targeting cancer and gastrointestinal diseases. Under the agreement, Iambic will receive upfront payments and could earn more than $1.7 billion in development and commercial milestones, plus royalties on sales. The deal marks Takeda's latest move to embed artificial intelligence across its research operations, following a similar agreement with Nabla Bio last year focused on protein-based drugs. Drug developers are increasingly turning to AI technologies to speed up discovery and cut costs, with experts predicting timelines could be halved in coming years. Takeda will also gain access to NeuralPLexer, Iambic's model that predicts how drug molecules bind to proteins. Iambic Chief Executive Tom Miller told Reuters that understanding protein structure is critical in drug development. "If you don't know the shape of what you're trying to engage ... it's a lot like trying to make a sculpture in the dark," he said. Traditional drug discovery can take around six years before a compound reaches clinical trials. Iambic said its approach, combining AI predictions with automated laboratories, can compress that timeline to less than two years. Takeda Chief Scientific Officer Christopher Arendt said the technology could significantly shorten research timelines, though speed is only part of the appeal. "When you start to add an AI engine to your smallmolecule drug development, it means you can go faster," Arendt said in an interview, adding that molecular quality is equally critical. Miller said AI tools can save months of traditional lab work, but "the most important thing is creating something that couldn't have been done before." (Reporting by Kamal Choudhury in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid) Target will cut 500 jobs across its regional offices and distribution sites. [Gary Hershorn/Getty Images] Target will cut roughly 500 jobs across its regional offices and distribution sites in the US, a move executives have said would allow the struggling retailer to invest in its stores and win back customers. Target executives announced the reductions on Monday in an internal email to employees, which was obtained by the BBC. The cuts, along with a reorganisation of geographic store districts, will help the firm boost store staffing, adding "labour and hours where needed most", the note said. The move is among the first strategic decisions made by new chief executive Michael Fiddelke, who was named to lead last year as the firm wrestled to reverse more than four years of stagnant sales. The job cuts and restructuring add to the workforce reductions that started last October, when the firm announced its first major downsizing in a decade. In that previous round of cuts, Target shed 1,800 corporate jobs - roughly 8% of its global corporate workforce. The reductions announced on Monday, though smaller in scale, underscore the company's ongoing push to shift investments toward bolstering staffing in its nearly 2,000 stores across the US. "Elevating the guest experience is a key priority towards growth," executives told employees on Monday, adding that in-store workers will receive a new "guest experience" training. A Target spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment on planned investments in Target stores. The retail giant has historically been known for its affordable clothes and wide range of cheap groceries, housewares, electronics and toys. But it has struggled in recent years, as budget-conscious customers curb spending on non-essentials like clothing and electronics, which have traditionally accounted for roughly half of the company's sales. The company has also faced supply shortages and backlash following a previous decision to end diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) targets. Upheaval in recent weeks over Target's handling of immigration enforcement in its hometown of Minneapolis has added to the challenges at the firm. After two workers were detained inside one of its suburban Minneapolis stores last month, more than 300 staff signed an internal letter, seen by the BBC, urging executives to speak up, and take steps to keep ICE officers off Target properties. The company reported a loss before tax of 3,100 crore, excluding exceptional provisions related to the cyber incident and other factors. Consolidated revenue was down 26% year-on-year, and the EBIT margin remained negative at -4.7% for the quarter. The company faced a significant impact from a cyber incident at Jaguar Land Rover, which resulted in a loss of almost a month of production and affected consolidated revenue. The launch of new models like the Sierra and Punch Facelift received a positive market response, with Sierra securing 70,000 bookings on the first day. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd ( BOM:500570 ) achieved its best-ever quarterly performance with wholesales of 171,000 units and retails crossing the 200,000 mark, reflecting a 22% year-on-year growth. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript . Story Continues Q & A Highlights Q: Where is the breakeven FCF for Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) in terms of wholesales per year, and how is the order book at the end of Q3? A: Richard Molyneux, CFO of JLR, stated that the cash breakeven is significantly above 325,000 units this year. The order bank is in a decent place and higher than at the end of September, with strong order intake for Defender vehicles influenced by the Dakar win. Q: Can you explain the sharp improvement in JLR's gross margins quarter on quarter? A: Richard Molyneux explained that the improvement is due to the reversal of inventory build-up effects. In Q2, there was a massive destocking due to halted production, which charged the P&L from the balance sheet. This reversed in Q3, improving gross margins. Q: How do you see increasing competition from local brands in the luxury car segment, and do you expect to return to net cash flow in the next 2-3 quarters? A: Richard Molyneux noted a squeeze in the luxury segment in China due to local new energy vehicles and increased luxury car taxes. JLR's debt has increased, and returning to net cash flow will take more time than 2-3 quarters. Q: What is the outlook for North America, Europe, UK, and China in CY26, and can you indicate launch timelines for RREV? A: Richard Molyneux mentioned that China is the most challenging market, while others are stable. The Range Rover Electric will launch this year, and the new Jaguar and a new Range Rover model will be unveiled. Q: How do you assess the EU trade deal's implications for the India auto sector, and are you revisiting localization strategies for the JLR portfolio? A: Shailesh Chandra, CEO of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, stated that the EU trade deal is not expected to impact Tata Motors' premiumization strategy significantly. Localization remains crucial for competitiveness in India. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. The Argentine Textile Industry Federation (FITA), the Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association (ABIT), and the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) have stated that the agreement is essential for the competitiveness of their industries on either sides of the Atlantic. The deal establishes a free trade area between the EUs 27 member states and four Mercosur countries namely Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay, by removing tariffs on over 90% of EU exports. In 2024, the EU exported 57bn in goods to Mercosur, making it Mercosurs second-largest trading partner. In their latest joint statement, FITA, ABIT, and EURATEX expressed confidence that the partnerships strategic value would prevail in spite of its submission to the Court of Justice of the European Union. The organisations said the agreement signals a commitment to economic integration, predictable rules for business, and support for multilateral cooperation. They also reaffirmed their commitment to actively contribute to implementing the deal and to pursue further actions that consolidate both regions as key players in global trade. The EUs textiles and apparel sector consists of around 200,000 companies employing 1.2 million workers, with annual turnover reaching approximately 170bn. In Brazil, 25,700 businesses employ about 1.3 million people and generate $40.9bn in turnover. Argentinas sector includes 4,000 companies with 540,000 workers along its value chain. The Mercosur-European Union Partnership Agreement offers the textile and apparel industry opportunities related to market access, technological cooperation, investment, strengthening of environmental standards for countries in both economic blocs, the joint statement reads. "Textile groups back essential Mercosur-EU deal" was originally created and published by Just Style, a GlobalData owned brand. While Medacta Group SA (VTX:MOVE) might not have the largest market cap around , it saw significant share price movement during recent months on the SWX, rising to highs of CHF176 and falling to the lows of CHF140. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether Medacta Group's current trading price of CHF154 reflective of the actual value of the mid-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Medacta Groups outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. This technology could replace computers: discover the 20 stocks are working to make quantum computing a reality. What's The Opportunity In Medacta Group? Medacta Group is currently expensive based on our price multiple model, where we look at the company's price-to-earnings ratio in comparison to the industry average. In this instance, weve used the price-to-earnings (PE) ratio given that there is not enough information to reliably forecast the stocks cash flows. We find that Medacta Groups ratio of 35.25x is above its peer average of 23.57x, which suggests the stock is trading at a higher price compared to the Medical Equipment industry. If you like the stock, you may want to keep an eye out for a potential price decline in the future. Given that Medacta Groups share is fairly volatile (i.e. its price movements are magnified relative to the rest of the market) this could mean the price can sink lower, giving us another chance to buy in the future. This is based on its high beta, which is a good indicator for share price volatility. See our latest analysis for Medacta Group Can we expect growth from Medacta Group? SWX:MOVE Earnings and Revenue Growth February 9th 2026 Investors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. Although value investors would argue that its the intrinsic value relative to the price that matter the most, a more compelling investment thesis would be high growth potential at a cheap price. Medacta Group's earnings growth are expected to be in the teens in the upcoming years, indicating a solid future ahead. This should lead to robust cash flows, feeding into a higher share value. What This Means For You Are you a shareholder? It seems like the market has well and truly priced in MOVEs positive outlook, with shares trading above industry price multiples. However, this brings up another question is now the right time to sell? If you believe MOVE should trade below its current price, selling high and buying it back up again when its price falls towards the industry PE ratio can be profitable. But before you make this decision, take a look at whether its fundamentals have changed. Feb 9 (Reuters) - French oil major TotalEnergies on Monday signed two long-term deals to supply solar power to Googles data centres in Texas, as it looks to tap rising electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence. Total will deliver 1 gigawatt of capacity - equivalent to 28 terawatt-hours of renewable power over 15 years - from two Texas sites owned by the group that are due to begin construction in the second quarter. The company has bucked the trend among oil majors by continuing to invest in renewable energy alongside gas-fired power plants, expanding its power business in deregulated markets where price volatility can create attractive trading opportunities, including the ERCOT market in Texas. Marc-Antoine Pignon, Total's vice president for U.S. renewables, said the deals mark the largest volume of renewable power purchase agreements TotalEnergies has ever signed in the United States. Total already indirectly supplies Google with power via its 50% stake in California-based renewables company Clearway, which recently signed deals worth 1.2 GW to supply data centres in three U.S. power markets. "Our agreement with TotalEnergies adds necessary new generation to the local system, boosting the amount of affordable and reliable power supply available to serve the entire region," Will Conkling, Google's director of clean energy and power, said in a statement. (Reporting by Mateusz Rabiega and America Hernandez, Editing by Louise Heavens) Toyota Motor Corporation reported a 43% plunge in net profits to JPY 1.26 trillion (US$ 8 billion) in the third quarter of the current fiscal year (FY26), between October and December 2025, down from JPY 2.19 trillion a year earlier, which the company blamed on the introduction last year of import tariffs in the US. Revenues rose by 8.6% to JPY 13.46 trillion (US$ 86 billion). Toyota also announced that its current CEO and president, Koji Sato, will step down at the beginning of the next fiscal year, in April 2026, to be replaced by the current chief financial officer, Kenta Kon, subject to shareholder approval at the companys annual general meeting (AGM) in June. In the first nine months of FY26, between April and December 2025, global revenues rose by 6.8% to JPY 38.1 trillion. Global vehicle sales, including the Toyota, Lexus, Hino and Daihatsu brands, increased by 3.8% to 8.607 million units, with sales in Japan rising by 4.3% to 1.516 million units, while sales in North America rose by 13.5% to 2.318 million units, Asia (outside Japan) 1.325 million units (-3.8%), and Europe 881,000 units (+2%). Operating profits declined by 13.1% to JPY 3.2 trillion in the first nine months of the current financial year, while net income fell by 23% to JPY 3.144 trillion. Toyota further increased its full fiscal year (FY26) global revenue forecast to JPY 50 trillion, from JPY 49 trillion in the previous quarter, while leaving its full-year vehicle sales forecast unchanged at 11.3 million units. The companys full-year operating income forecast was increased to JPY 3.8 trillion from JPY 3.4 trillion, representing a 21% decline on the previous year, while the net income forecast was raised to JPY 3.57 trillion from JPY 2.93 trillion. Regarding its latest nine-month financial results, Toyota said in a statement: Despite the JPY 1.45 trillion negative impact of US tariffs, we have reduced the extent of the profit decline by implementing cost reductions and marketing efforts. The automaker said it has introduced company-wide initiatives aimed at reducing the break-even volume, strengthening its earnings power for medium- to long-term competitiveness. Together with suppliers, we will increase productivity to generate resources for growth and protect Japanese manufacturing. "Toyotas net profits plunge 43%" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. Union Bancaire Privee (UBP) has made senior leadership changes in its Middle East operations, naming Fahd Iqbal as head of investment services in Dubai, according to a press release posted on Zawya. Operating out of Dubai, Iqbal will be responsible for embedding the Global Investment Committees investment approach locally. He will report to UBP Dubai office senior executive officer Arfat Qayyum. Iqbal previously served as chief investment officer for the Middle East at UBS and has held positions at Credit Suisse, EFG Hermes, and Deutsche Bank. Qayyum said: We are pleased to welcome Fahd to UBP. His depth of experience across global markets and his ability to translate investment insights into clear, client-relevant guidance will be a strong addition to our value-proposition in the Middle East. Fahd will play an important role in reinforcing our local investment services and ensuring we continue to benefit from the full support and expertise of our Head Office. UBP also appointed Joy Chammas and Mohammed Zaheer as market heads for the Middle East. Chammas brings experience from the Gulf Cooperation Councils private banking sector and will concentrate on client relationships and business development in the region. Zaheer, who joined UBP in 2015, manages a diverse portfolio and has overseen client transitions following UBPs acquisition of Coutts International. UBP Middle East and Africa (MEA) co-head Mohamed Abdellatif said: This investment in talent reflects our ongoing development of our Middle East platform and our focus on providing dedicated, on-the-ground coverage to clients across the region. We remain focused on delivering high-quality wealth management services and on our enduring commitment to the region, built on over 20 years of investment here. UBP has operated in the Middle East for over 20 years, initially from Switzerland before opening an office in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in 2011. The bank opened its Riyadh office in 2025. UBP currently has about 100 staff globally, with more than 40 based in the region managing assets exceeding SFr 24bn for Middle Eastern clients, as per Zawya. "UBP expands Middle East team with leadership hires " was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) is included among the 10 Most Profitable Undervalued Stocks to Buy Wells Fargo Raises its Price Target on The Allstate Corporation (ALL) to $228 On February 6, 2026, Wells Fargo analyst Elyse Greenspan raised the firms price target on The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) to $228 from $223 and maintained an Equal Weight rating. The firm said it was surprised by the size of the stocks move following earnings, attributing it largely to positioning dynamics and recent outperformance across property and casualty insurers. A day earlier, on February 5, 2026, JPMorgan analyst Jimmy Bhullar lifted his price target to $263 from $260 while reiterating an Overweight rating. The firm pointed to what it described as healthy business trends coming out of the quarter. On February 5, 2026, the company reported fourth-quarter revenue of $17.3 billion, slightly above consensus estimates of $17.29 billion. For the full year, revenue reached $67.7 billion, while net income totaled $10.2 billion and adjusted net income came in at $9.3 billion. During the quarter, total policies in force increased to 210.9 million, up 3.0% year over year, supported by broad distribution and product offerings. The company also reduced premiums for 7.8 million auto and homeowners customers by an average of 17% through coverage adjustments. The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) provides property and casualty insurance and related products across the United States and Canada, operating through segments that include Allstate Protection, Protection Services, Health and Benefits, and other ancillary businesses. While we acknowledge the potential of ALL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 Most Profitable Undervalued Stocks to Buy and 12 Best Nuclear Energy Stocks to Buy Now Disclosure: None. ABC7 Jody and Paul Glaser of Los Altos did what millions of Americans still do every year: they wrote a check for their property taxes and dropped it in a blue USPS mailbox outside the post office. Three months later, a delinquency notice arrived from Santa Clara County. Paul said he knew he'd paid he'd seen the check clear. So they pulled up the check image online and saw someone else's name where the county tax collector's should have been. "Clearly, the check had been altered, and cashed by somebody else," Paul told ABC7's 7 On Your Side (1). Criminals had stolen the check from the mail, used chemicals to wipe the payee line, written in a new name, and deposited it at a U.S. Bank ATM in Minnesota. The amount: nearly $28,000. The Glasers still owed the county, and with penalties, their total damage came to roughly $60,000. They went to Wells Fargo expecting a straightforward refund. Within 30 days, they got an automated denial. The reason? They hadn't reported the fraud within 30 days of receiving their bank statement. San Jose homeowner Kathy Pham had a nearly identical experience a $2,400 property tax check stolen from the mail, altered and cashed by someone else, then denied by the same bank with the same explanation. Must Read The 30-day rule most people have never heard of Here's what tripped both families up. Under the Uniform Commercial Code the framework governing commercial transactions in every state customers must review bank statements promptly and report unauthorized transactions, typically within 30 to 60 days. Wells Fargo's 42-page deposit account agreement sets that window at 30 days. There was no way to spot the fraud from the statement alone. "It only shows the date and the amount," Jody Glaser said. "It doesn't show who you wrote the check to. It doesn't say who cashed the check. It just says 'check.'" The only way to catch it was to download the actual check image something most people wouldn't think to do for every cleared transaction. Wells Fargo's position is that customers should do exactly that. The bank updated its account agreement last November to make that expectation explicit, though the clause wasn't in place when these families filed their claims. U.S. companies arent shy about benching human employees and inserting robots into the starting lineup. A case in point: Amazon is looking to automate 75% of its operations, which would displace approximately 500,000 human jobs and halt hiring of around 100,000 new Amazon employees. Auto manufacturer Hyundai is following suit, adding 1,000 new robots to work alongside human line workers. The end game, some career experts say, is to curb or even eliminate human staffers, sooner or later. For now, the move represents a huge shift in the 21st-century workplace. This signals a pivotal shift: Automation isnt just efficiencygain anymore; its redefining the future role of human labor, the value of work, and how businesses compete on cost and speed, said Daniel Burrus, a technology futurist and AI strategist, in a LinkedIn post. Companies rushing into a bot world may be taking a big risk That headlong rush to mix robots into the corporate fabric is getting some pushback from data analysts. Earlier this month, a new Binghamton University study showed that businesses could risk losing their competitive edge by leaning too heavily on replacing human workers with robots, since competitors could embrace the same robo-based strategy as human workers circle the proverbial drain. Instead, the study recommends merging robots into the company fabric, working side by side with human staffers. The most successful organizations will find a way to extract the best value from these technologies to achieve their unique goals, said Chou-YuTsai, SOM Osterhout associate professor of entrepreneurship and the studys co-author. If youre focused on going up against other companies by introducing robots to replace some key roles traditionally carried out by human employees, thats not always the best strategic thinking because your competitors could easily do the same thing. 3 key takeaways on the robot-human worker issue Other workplace experts agree with YuTsai, adding that companies that rush to adopt automation without considering their employees are making a shortsighted decision, primarily for these reasons. Without collaboration, you may not go beyond the baseline With regard to the Binghamton study, I agree with their findings, said Eric Kingsley, a partner at Kingsley Szamet Employment Lawyers. When every company is able to perform certain tasks, then thats not a competitive advantage, thats just a baseline requirement. What companies lose in that race is their ability to adapt, their ability to think, their ability to use judgment. Millions of Trump accounts, the new savings accounts for children, will be funded with an initial deposit of $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury. So far, nearly three dozen companies and philanthropists have pledged to match that seed money with their own donations. Experts say savings accounts, along with employer contributions, could help reframe the conversation about saving early for children's futures. How Trump accounts work While any child under 18 with a Social Security number can establish the IRA-like savings account, only those born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, get a $1,000 deposit directly from the government as one-time seed money. Parents and their employers, family members, friends really anyone can contribute up to $2,500 per year, beginning on July 5, with a $5,000 annual cap on contributions. Charitable organizations and state governments can also make contributions, which do not count against the annual limit. So far, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says 20 U.S. states are working to meet the administration's "50 State Challenge" to help fund the accounts. Nearly three dozen companies and philanthropists have pledged to match donations. Below is an updated list. Each company's matching contribution may vary. Read more: Trump accounts explained: How they work, who qualifies Companies pledging matching funds to Trump accounts Financial Acorns Bank of America Bank of New York Mellon Corporation BlackRock Charles Schwab Chime Citi Empower Investment Company Institute JPMorgan Chase Mastercard Robinhood Russell Investments SoFi Technologies State Street Visa Wells Fargo Tech Block, Inc. Broadcom Coinbase Dell Technologies IBM Intel Nvidia Consumer/Corporate Charter Communications Chipotle Mexican Grill Comcast Continental Resources Steak 'n Shake Turning Point USA Uber Nonprofits and philanthropists Michael and Susan Dell are providing eligible children aged 10 and under who live in ZIP codes with a median income of $150,000 or less a contribution of $250. The commitment is estimated at $6.25 billion. Hedge fund founder Ray Dalio and his wife, Barbara, pledged $250 each to about 300,000 children living in Connecticut ZIP codes in households with median incomes below $150,000. Altimeter Capital CEO Brad Gerstner said he would donate $250 to each Indiana child under five with a Trump account. Rap artist and songwriter Nicki Minaj has pledged $150,000 to $300,000 to the Trump accounts of her fans' children. Will matching money initiatives for Trump accounts truly spark American savings? Citi is one of the most recent additions to the list of contributing companies above, announcing its matching program on Feb. 5. "Matched savings programs have a long track record of helping families take that first step toward building assets, and were excited about the possibilities that Trump accounts can open up for Americans," Brandee McHale, president of the Citi Foundation, told Yahoo Finance. McHale added that helping households understand Trump accounts and assisting with account openings will be key to the initiative's success. The Citi Foundation has pledged $5 million to boost program awareness, encourage participation, and provide enrollment support. Lindsey Stanberry, family financial advisor for Babylist.com, an online resource for growing families, agrees that Trump accounts may serve as an opportunity to "shift the conversation" in helping families save for their children's futures as early as possible. She notes that the employer-matching feature works much like a 401(k) plan. "Adding the cash incentive could encourage more families to prioritize investing in these accounts," Stanberry said. "While the goal of these accounts is to help build wealth for all American children, ultimately, it will be easier for families who have access to employer matching programs." She hopes to see "a growing wave of corporate participation," and that employers will support both full-time and hourly employees. Other child savings accounts to consider IRAs, 529 plans, and education savings accounts are already options for families to consider, in addition to the new Trump accounts. "Trump accounts and 529 accounts are similar in that the money in them can be used to pay for college, but with a Trump account, your child could also use the money to buy a home, or they could hold on to it to use in retirement," Stanberry noted. 529 accounts have much higher contribution limits, and investment earnings aren't taxed when used to pay for qualified education expenses. Meanwhile, taxes are paid on the investment earnings in Trump accounts when you withdraw the money, just as with traditional IRAs. "I think of these like tools in a toolbox, and you don't have to choose just one," Stanberry added. "Families can open a Trump account to take advantage of the $1,000 seed money and any employer match while also contributing to a 529 to maximize their child's educational funding." Babylist.com has a page comparing Trump accounts and 529s that can help you navigate the differences. Read more: Trump accounts vs. IRAs and 529s: How do they stack up? Southwest Airlines no longer offers two free checked bags for every passenger the airline only allows two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and passengers on Business Select fares, and one free checked bag to A-List members. Luckily, theres another way to secure a free checked bag: Youll get the perk as a Southwest credit cardholder. But thats not all these cards offer. In fact, now is one of the best times of the year to consider a Southwest credit card. Heres how you can choose the right Rapid Rewards card for your travels and what to know ahead of the policy change: Related: Best airline credit cards for 2026 Southwest free checked bags and other changes Southwests Two bags fly free policy has long been a major money-saver for frequent Southwest flyers especially when two checked bags on a domestic flight with other airlines could cost as much as $100 one-way. Now, Southwest flyers have to pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. The checked baggage cost is just one of several changes Southwest rolled out, including a new assigned seating program that went into effect earlier this year. For one, the airline announced a new Basic fare, making up the lowest-cost tickets starting on the same date. It also updated the number of Rapid Rewards points you can earn when purchasing different fare types on a qualifying flight. Without A-List boosts, youll earn 14 points per dollar spent on qualifying flights in Business Select (the same fare class that will still get a free checked bag), 10 points per dollar spent on qualifying flights with a refundable Anytime ticket, 6 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away+ fare, and 2 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away flights. Related: How to earn elite airline status with a credit card Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cardholders still benefit Even without A-List or A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards status or a Business Select ticket, you can still get one free checked bag with a Southwest credit card. If you typically travel with a lot of luggage, keep in mind that youll now only get your first checked bag free as a cardholder. Youll still save a significant amount on baggage fees if you fly with the airline a few times each year. As a comparison, JetBlue charges $35 off-peak and $40 during peak season flights, while American Airlines charges $40 for your first checked bag on domestic flights though costs can differ depending on status and fare class. Assuming Southwests baggage fees are similar to other U.S. airlines, this benefit can quickly help you recoup the annual fee cost of a Southwest Rapid Rewards card. Related: Best travel credit cards More about Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards Heres a look at each of the Southwest Rapid Rewards cards to help determine which is right for you: Learn more Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card Add to Compare Annual fee $99 Welcome offer Earn Companion Pass from Southwest through 2/28/27, plus 20,000 Rapid Rewards bonus points, after spending $3,000 within the first 3 months from account opening Rewards rate 2x on Southwest purchases 2x at gas stations and grocery stores on the first $5,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year 1x on all other purchases Benefits 3,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary First checked bag free for you and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation Standard Seat Selection within 48 hours prior to departure, when available Why we like it: The Rapid Rewards Plus card has the lowest annual fee among Southwests credit cards at $99 and offers slightly lower rewards on Southwest purchases. But it still has some valuable benefits alongside the free checked bag perk. Youll get 3,000 points on your cardmember anniversary; 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year; and 25% back on eligible in-flight purchases. Combined with rewards you can use toward future flights, this card can make a great option if you prefer flying Southwest but arent a frequent traveler. Read our full review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card Learn more Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Add to Compare Annual fee $229 Welcome offer Earn Companion Pass from Southwest through 2/28/27, plus 40,000 Rapid Rewards bonus points, after spending $5,000 within the first 3 months from account opening Rewards rate 4x on Southwest purchases 2x at gas stations and restaurants 1x on all other purchases Benefits 7,500 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary First checked bag free for you and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation, plus enjoy unlimited upgrades to an Extra Legroom seat when available 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year Why we like it: The Rapid Rewards Priority card is the most premium Southwest credit card with a $229 annual fee. Youll get some elevated perks, but the Rapid Rewards Priority card is similar to the Rapid Rewards Premier: 2,500 tier-qualifying points for every $5,000 you spend; 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year; 25% off in-flight purchases; and no foreign transaction fees. This card is a solid option if you fly frequently and Southwest is your preferred airline. You can quickly recoup half the cards fee when you use the annual travel credit alone. Plus, Upgraded Boarding costs typically start at $30; if you fly at least four times each year and use this annual benefit, you can get more than $100 in added value. Read our full review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Learn more Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card Annual fee $149 Welcome offer Earn Companion Pass from Southwest through 2/28/27, plus 30,000 Rapid Rewards bonus points, after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months from account opening Rewards rate 3x points on Southwest purchases 2x at grocery stores and restaurants on the first $8,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year 1x points on all other purchases Benefits Earn 6,000 points each year on your account anniversary First checked bag free for you and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation Get 25% back on inflight purchases 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year Why we like it: With a Rapid Rewards Premier card, youll boost your rewards on Southwest purchases to 3x per dollar for a slightly higher $149 annual fee. This card also has some increased benefits, like 6,000 points each year on your cardmember anniversary and the ability to earn 1,500 tier qualifying points toward A-List status for every $5,000 in purchases. Beyond that, youll get the same 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points annually and 25% off in-flight spending as the Rapid Rewards Plus. The Rapid Rewards Premier also charges no foreign transaction fees, so it could be a better option if you plan to travel abroad with your card. Read our full review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card All information about the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card has been collected independently by Yahoo Finance. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card is no longer available through Yahoo Finance. Editorial Disclosure: The information in this article has not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. All opinions belong solely to the Yahoo Finance and are not those of any other entity. The details on financial products, including card rates and fees, are accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the banks website for the most current information. This site doesn't include all currently available offers. Credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product. Tanzania's Zanzibar reviews malaria elimination progress, eyes Chinese experience Xinhua) 09:43, February 09, 2026 The annual performance evaluation meeting for malaria elimination is held in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Feb. 5, 2026. Tanzania's Zanzibar has concluded its annual performance evaluation for malaria elimination, with Chinese expertise featured for the first time to help the archipelago refine its prevention and control strategies. (The 35th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar/Handout via Xinhua) DAR ES SALAAM, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania's Zanzibar has concluded its annual performance evaluation for malaria elimination, with Chinese expertise featured for the first time to help the archipelago refine its prevention and control strategies. The meeting, held from Feb. 2 to 7, focused on assessing achievements in malaria elimination in 2025, formulating the 2026 work plan, and identifying priority areas for the next round of Global Fund malaria grant applications. Addressing Zanzibar's practical needs, Liu Yaobao, a public health expert from the 35th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar, introduced China's successful strategies, including establishing multi-sector collaboration mechanisms, strengthening surveillance and rapid response systems, enhancing grassroots prevention and control capacity, and expanding health education. Shija Joseph Shija, director of Zanzibar's Malaria Elimination Program, noted that China achieved nationwide malaria elimination in 2021, while Zanzibar is steadily advancing toward its 2030 elimination goal. He added that Zanzibar is keen to learn from China's experience to further accelerate progress. Liu is the first public health expert sent with the Chinese medical team to Zanzibar. Since his arrival in September 2025, he has worked closely with local health authorities, conducting assessments and establishing effective cooperation mechanisms. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Cancer awareness campaigns and research have increased our tools and knowledge about the disease. It no longer necessarily has to be a death sentence, especially when caught early. "People can increase their odds of early detection through regular screening for the most common cancers," says Dr. Roshani Patel, MD, FACS, a breast surgical oncologist and the medical director of Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center's breast program. Yet, despite all of the knowledge and tools we've gained about cancer risk reduction, screening, detection and treatment over the last few decades, Dr. Patel tells Parade there are still several cancer myths out there. While there are certainly some reputable sources on the internet, you can't believe everything you read. "It is human nature to look up information on the internet so that people can be more informed about healthcare decisions," she says. "The issue is that people who may not be as well-versed in technology as well as the benefits and pitfalls may post articles and information that are inaccurate." The consequences of cancer myths can be devastating. "People may decide not to seek standard treatments that are effective for an issue," Dr. Patel reports. "As a result, a disease may be under-treated or not caught early enough. When we diagnose a problem later, we may not be able to treat the issue as well as we would have if it had been caught early." Cancer still kills hundreds of thousands of Americans each year. Knowing the truth can be life-saving. That's why she says there's one cancer myth she wishes would go away. Read on to find out what it is. SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week MICROGEN IMAGES/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images (MICROGEN IMAGES/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images) The Common Cancer Myth an Oncologist Wishes Would Go Away Dr. Patel wishes people would stop believing that cancer always has obvious symptoms. More often than not, cancer doesn't have any symptoms, especially in the early stages when your body is more likely to respond well to treatment. Dr. Patel is worried and has seen firsthand how this cancer myth can have a devastating effect because it tricks people into believing that they don't need life-saving and routine preventative care. "An early small cancer may not cause symptoms, which is why we screen for cancer," she explains. "If we do not monitor for cancer, the cancer will grow and continue to spread until it is noticeable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The phrase "mammograms save lives" isn't just a taglineit's a fact. A 2024 Journal of Medical Screening study suggested that Swedish women who went for mammograms on a regular schedule reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 66% compared to those who didn't. One reason that regular screenings increase survival rates is that they give healthcare teams a chance to execute treatment plans that stop cancer in its tracks. "When cancer spreads elsewhere, patients may present with 'late stage symptoms' like shortness of breath," Dr. Patel shares. "If a patient comes in to be evaluated for shortness of breath, scans will focus on the lungs, when in reality they may have a cancer that spreads, or metastasizes, to the lungs. for instance." Take colon cancer, for example. The American Cancer Society reports that the relative survival rate is 91% if it's caught when it's localized (hasn't spread). However, that number plummets to a 13% relative five-year survival rate if it's spread to distant organs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People with cancer in their families may be more aware of the need for screenings. However, people without much cancer in their DNA may assume symptoms are something else, even when they do occur. "Sometimes, patients may not think they have cancer if they do not have a family history and may mistake a lump for an infection, for instance," Dr. Patel says. "They do not seek a specialist opinion and may be treated as someone who has an infection by someone who may not have expertise about the specific issue." It can delay an accurate diagnosis and life-changing treatment. Related: The Popular Cooking Method Oncologists Are Begging People To Limit Quick, Regular Care (Especially Cancer Screenings) Can Save Your Life Since cancer can develop without symptoms, Dr. Patel says it's crucial to get screenings that you're eligible for and speak with your provider about other risk factors, such as family history and habits like smoking. The aim is not to shame or alarm you, but help you get the care you need, if and when you need it. When it comes to screening for, there are general guidelines and exceptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Its best to speak to your provider to determine a screening schedule thats best for you based on your health history, family history of disease and other factors," Dr. Patel says. To help get you started, she calls out how to get tested for three of the most common cancers today: breast, colon and melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. Breast cancer : Yearly mammograms starting at age 40 for average-risk women (with an ultrasound if you have dense tissue). High-risk women (genetic risks, history of chest wall radiation before 30 and others) should get annual MRI breast screenings beginning at age 25 and mammograms starting at age 30, with or without screening ultrasound, based on breast density. "The interval between MRI and mammogram with ultrasound should be six months," Dr. Patel adds. Colon cancer: Colonoscopies aren't fun, but people at an average risk need to have one every 10 years beginning at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society. For those with a family history of colon cancer or polyps[considered] high risk colonoscopies should start at age 40 or 10 years before the youngest affected relative," Dr. Patel stresses. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer: Dr. Patel recommends having regular skin screenings with a dermatologist. Additionally, she advises flagging any moles or freckles with irregular borders and shapes, unusual color, crusting, bleeding or a length longer than a pencil eraser. "Those signs can indicate something is wrong," she explains. "If you're doing self checks in the mirror, ask a friendor even your hairdresser or barberto check your scalp. Dont forget to check places like between your toes and other areas of skin that are not exposed to the sun." That said, if you notice concerning symptoms, speak with your healthcare team. "Your doctor should order imaging and testing based on symptoms and refer you to a specialist or a team of specialists that can fast-track your care and potentially save your life," Dr. Patel notes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also may not be cancer at all. But at least you got it checked, and hopefully, you're on the path to feeling better. Up Next: Related: Never Combine These 2 Natural Supplements, Experts Warn Sources: This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 7, 2026, where it first appeared in the Health & Wellness section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here. FILE - A woman uses a walker as she exits an assisted living building at the Toby and Leon Cooperman Sinai Residences, July 4, 2025, in Boca Raton, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) FILE - Birdhouses line a path outside a resident's room at the Ida Culver House Ravenna, a senior independent and assisted living home in Seattle, on May 21, 2020. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File) FILE - Birdhouses line a path outside a resident's room at the Ida Culver House Ravenna, a senior independent and assisted living home in Seattle, on May 21, 2020. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) FILE - A woman uses a walker as she exits an assisted living building at the Toby and Leon Cooperman Sinai Residences, July 4, 2025, in Boca Raton, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) FILE - A woman uses a walker as she exits an assisted living building at the Toby and Leon Cooperman Sinai Residences, July 4, 2025, in Boca Raton, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) NEW YORK (AP) Sometimes its a fall that brings a broken hip and a loss of mobility. Or memory problems that bubble into danger. Or the death of the partner who was relied upon for care. The need to move to a nursing home, assisted living facility or another type of care setting often comes suddenly, setting off an abrupt, daunting search. Its likely something no one ever wanted, but knowing what to look for and what to ask can make a big difference. What to do when looking for a long-term care facility: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Start with government ratings Regulation of assisted living facilities varies greatly from state to state, meaning there's no centralized standards or source for information. If youre looking for a nursing home, though, they are monitored by the federal government. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services maintains records on nursing homes, including data on who owns the facility, how robust its staffing is and what types of violations it might have been fined for. It assigns homes a star rating, from one to five. Sam Brooks, director of public policy for the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, says while the star rating can be notoriously unreliable, due to its reliance on self-reported data, it can still provide some clues about a home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One or two stars, expect it to be bad, Brooks says. Ratings can be a resource to rule out the worst options, but not necessarily to find the best. Still, Brooks suggests taking a closer look at four- and five-star facilities and to consider a homes ownership, too. Nonprofit homes are often better staffed. You could scour inspection reports and online reviews for clues, too, but eventually youll need to make a list of potential candidates and start making visits. The data, Brooks says, only goes so far. Look past the lobby When visiting a home on your list, be careful not to be too swayed by decorative touches that might be designed to lure you in, like a lobbys furniture, dangling chandeliers or vases of flowers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I tour a building, I listen first. Is it loud? Are call bells ringing nonstop? says Mark Sanchez, CEO of United Hebrew, a nursing home in New Rochelle, New York. After that, Sanchez says, switch your senses. Do you detect an odor? Do you see residents clustered around the nurses station, perhaps clamoring for help? Are staffers speaking respectfully to residents? Are they making eye contact? Are they rushed? Culture shows up in small moments, Sanchez says, and it matters. Seeking input from families of current residents can be insightful. Another resource may be your local long-term care ombudsman. Ombudsmen, funded by the federal Older Americans Act and present in every state, investigate long-term care residents complaints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With all the available information on each home, it can be easy to feel like youre drowning in data. So pay attention to how a place feels, too, and pair that with concrete facts. When Jennifer Fink was making the stressful, grief-inducing, hard and scary decision on what memory care community was right for her mother, she didnt consult state databases or Google ratings. She went with her gut reaction and luckily, it was right. Trust your gut. Keep top of mind that the salesperson wants your loved ones money, says Fink, of Auburn, California. If its giving you the ick, then move on. Staffing matters most Advertisement Advertisement More than any other single thing, experts on long-term care stress that a facilitys staffing is most important. That means both the quality of the care you witness workers giving residents during your visit and the average staffing levels shown in the reported data. A home providing an average of three hours of nursing care to each resident each day may not look all that different on paper from one providing three-and-a-half hours. But those minutes matter dearly, meaning the difference between a person getting a shower, having help at mealtime, or being discovered if theyve fallen. During a visit, pay attention to how quickly call bells are answered and whether it seems like residents are engaged in activities. Ask staff how long theyve worked there. A home that holds on to its workers for years may offer your loved one more continuity. Evan Farr, an elder law attorney in Lorton, Virginia, who wrote The Nursing Home Survival Guide, says visiting a facility at night or on the weekend can be particularly revealing. Advertisement Advertisement These are the times when staffing is reduced and the true operation of the facility becomes apparent, Farr says. It is entirely possible to have a five-star rated facility that is woefully under-staffed from 5 p.m. Friday until 8 a.m. Monday morning. Keep a long-range view When faced with an urgent decision, it can be difficult to focus on anything beyond the factors in front of you. But its important to choose a home with a long-range view. At the start, many long-term care residents are able to pay for the cost of their bill. But what happens if their money runs out? If its a nursing home that accepts Medicaid, how many beds are allocated to such residents? Would your loved one get that slot? If its an assisted living facility, do they even accept people on Medicaid? Advertisement Advertisement Assisted living facilities often have complicated billing structures that require a bevy of questions to understand. Ask how costs may change as a persons needs increase. Some places tack on separate charges for tasks like helping a person to the bathroom. Four-thousand dollars a month can become $8,000 overnight, says Geoff Hoatson, founder of the elder law practice Family First Firm in Winter Park, Florida. Another fact of long-term care that few understand is how often facilities seek to remove residents seen as undesirable, often due to a change in their financial circumstances or in their health. Dementia patients in particular with challenging care needs and symptoms that can sometimes bring aggression are targeted with orders to leave. Ask specifically what conditions would require transfer, Hoatson says. ___ Matt Sedensky can be reached at msedensky@ap.org and https://x.com/sedensky Mission-critical technology developed in Ireland will support first responders and help make communities safer across the globe Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) has announced the opening of its Global Research and Development Centre in Cork, Ireland, focused on software design for its public safety land mobile radio (LMR) portfolio. The sophisticated software and applications developed at the centre help increase the safety and efficiency of first responders. The company has hired nearly 200 employees based at Navigation Square, with roles spanning software engineering, design, development, testing, quality assurance and management. The team is dedicated to continued innovation in LMR, which is engineered for five-nines (99.999 per cent) availability. The opening of Motorola Solutions new global R&D centre in Cork is a testament to the extraordinary technical talent and innovation we have cultivated in Ireland, said Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD. This investment reinforces our countrys reputation as a global hub for the technology sector, where world-class engineers can solve some of the most complex challenges of the modern era. Knowing the depth of expertise in Cork, I look forward to the groundbreaking advancements in public safety technology that will undoubtedly result." We are incredibly proud to officially open our new global R&D centre in Cork, said Mahesh Saptharishi, executive vice president and chief technology officer, Motorola Solutions. Todays LMR extends highly resilient voice capabilities to AI and advanced data applications. The work at Navigation Square underscores our relentless commitment to mission-critical communications that public safety agencies trust in their most demanding moments. The Motorola Solutions team in Cork champions education, volunteer, and philanthropic initiatives with local organisations. It has established earlycareer and education partnerships with University College Cork and Munster Technological University for internships that provide students with hands-on, practical industry experience and mentorship to guide skill development and career readiness. It has further lent time and support to community organisations, including Darkness Into Light, Cork Arc, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland and the Society of St Vincent de Paul. The Motorola Solutions Foundation, the philanthropic and charitable arm of the company, is also active in Ireland. It issued a $100,000 USD grant to I WISH, as part of the Tech For Good Programme, to provide 30 schools in Cork with 3D printers and resources to support the STEM curriculum. Additionally, the Foundation awarded $90,000 USD to Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland to support wellness programming for first responders and their loved ones. Motorola Solutions Global R&D Centre investment is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. I wish to welcome the decision by Motorola Solutions to establish its new global R&D centre in Cork, said Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland. It highlights the continued attractiveness of Irelands stable business environment and our proven track record in supporting the worlds leading technology companies. I want to thank Motorola Solutions for choosing Ireland for this investment and wish the team continued success. The practice of drawing partisan districts is named after Elbridge Gerry, the 19th-century Massachusetts governor. Even he might blush at the extreme gerrymander that Democrats in the commonwealth are pushing. They want to go from a congressional delegation with six Democrats and five Republicans broadly representing the partisan make-up of the state to a 10-1 Democratic advantage. In other words, purplish Virginia would have a congressional delegation that, in percentage terms, would be more Democratic than that of Illinois; Virginia's delegation would be 91% Democratic, the Land of Lincoln's a mere 82%. Another way to look at it is that Virginia would be almost as purely Democratic as Massachusetts, which has a 9-0 split. Virginia is reliably Democratic in presidential elections (Kamala Harris won 51% of the vote), but isn't Vermont (where Harris won nearly 64%) or California (58.5%). Prior to this year and the inauguration of new statewide officials, Virginia had a Republican governor, a Republican lieutenant governor and a Republican attorney general. The GOP held a majority in the state House as of 2023 and today is only a step behind Democrats in the state Senate, 21-19. Yet, the substantial portion of the statewide electorate sometimes a majority that votes Republican will be almost completely shut out of congressional seats. And, of course, this is being done in the name of "democracy." Virginia's move, which still needs to clear hurdles, is a salvo in the mid-decade redistricting wars set off by President Donald Trump and the GOP, beginning in Texas. It was foolhardy of the GOP to go down this road, but now Democrats in a relatively moderate state are creating a new standard for audacity. Buoyed by their election victory last year led at the top of the ticket by Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who is supposed to be a centrist Democrats have tortured the map to produce the 10 presumptively Democratic seats. One of their methods is to tap into populous, deep blue Northern Virginia to scoop up heavily Democratic voters, and then draw districts extending into less populated, Republican areas. The idea is that the Northern Virginia contingent will overwhelm the more rural voters, ensuring that they have little chance of electing a member of Congress who reflects their priorities. In this sense, the map is not just a partisan power play, but a means of giving Northern Virginia hugely disproportionate sway over the state's congressional delegation. One district will reach from the inner suburb of Arlington all the down to York County in the Tidewater area, a roughly three-hour drive. For all that these areas have in common, the district might as well stretch all the way to Erie, Pa. To try to force through their map, Virginia Democrats need to maneuver around a constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2020 to create a nonpartisan districting commission, exactly to avoid the kind of outrage Democrats are now proposing. The amendment passed with 66% of the vote, a strong message from the public that it didn't want gerrymandered districts. Democrats have now blown past procedural requirements for re-amending the constitution to allow for their plan, and may yet get blocked by the state's Supreme Court. The measure also has to pass in a referendum, and there's a chance voters reject it, although Democrats have scheduled the vote for April, when turnout is low. None of this is worthy of a state with one of the finest political traditions in America. Virginia Democrats tell themselves they are just responding to Texas, but Democratic states like Illinois and California were already heavily gerrymandered prior to the Lone Star state redrawing its map, and Virginia is going above and beyond in its rank partisan grubbiness. Virginia is reliably Democratic in presidential elections (Kamala Harris won 51% of the vote), but isn't Vermont (where Harris won nearly 64%) or California (58.5%). Prior to this year and the inauguration of new statewide officials, Virginia had a Republican governor, a Republican lieutenant governor and a Republican attorney general. The GOP held a majority in the state House as of 2023 and today is only a step behind Democrats in the state Senate, 21-19. Yet, the substantial portion of the statewide electorate sometimes a majority that votes Republican will be almost completely shut out of congressional seats. And, of course, this is being done in the name of "democracy." Virginia's move, which still needs to clear hurdles, is a salvo in the mid-decade redistricting wars set off by President Donald Trump and the GOP, beginning in Texas. It was foolhardy of the GOP to go down this road, but now Democrats in a relatively moderate state are creating a new standard for audacity. Buoyed by their election victory last year led at the top of the ticket by Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who is supposed to be a centrist Democrats have tortured the map to produce the 10 presumptively Democratic seats. One of their methods is to tap into populous, deep blue Northern Virginia to scoop up heavily Democratic voters, and then draw districts extending into less populated, Republican areas. The idea is that the Northern Virginia contingent will overwhelm the more rural voters, ensuring that they have little chance of electing a member of Congress who reflects their priorities. In this sense, the map is not just a partisan power play, but a means of giving Northern Virginia hugely disproportionate sway over the state's congressional delegation. One district will reach from the inner suburb of Arlington all the down to York County in the Tidewater area, a roughly three-hour drive. For all that these areas have in common, the district might as well stretch all the way to Erie, Pa. To try to force through their map, Virginia Democrats need to maneuver around a constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2020 to create a nonpartisan districting commission, exactly to avoid the kind of outrage Democrats are now proposing. The amendment passed with 66% of the vote, a strong message from the public that it didn't want gerrymandered districts. Democrats have now blown past procedural requirements for re-amending the constitution to allow for their plan, and may yet get blocked by the state's Supreme Court. The measure also has to pass in a referendum, and there's a chance voters reject it, although Democrats have scheduled the vote for April, when turnout is low. None of this is worthy of a state with one of the finest political traditions in America. Virginia Democrats tell themselves they are just responding to Texas, but Democratic states like Illinois and California were already heavily gerrymandered prior to the Lone Star state redrawing its map, and Virginia is going above and beyond in its rank partisan grubbiness. Democratic state Sen. Louise Lucas crowed after Democrats produced their maps, "We said 10-1, and we meant it." Yes, indeed, they are determined to protect democracy Virginia voters be damned. (COMMENT, BELOW) It's all connected. I don't just mean in the sense that the various degenerates and perverts who afflict our world all seem reminiscent of similar degenerates and perverts on other continents: Thus the son of the Crown Princess of Norway, presently on trial in Oslo for the rapes of four women, comes across merely as this season's Hunter Biden, albeit considerably less lavishly remunerated and without (yet) a short-lived artistic pre-eminence. But, more parochially, I am thinking of the reflections - through a glass, darkly - of the wretched headlines in this little website's above-mentioned musical content. Thus, a famous song by the late Alan and Marilyn Bergman: Like a tunnel that you follow to a tunnel of its own Down a hollow to a cavern where the sun has never shone... Do we ever reach the last tunnel? The final cavern? I think one can take it as read that there the sun has never shone. And, should one ever locate it, is it just an outpost of Philip K Dick's Simulacra? Or the Hollywood Matrix trannies' simulacra? Or is the tranny simulacrum just a simulacrum of the Dick simulacrum, and vice-versa? To prevent driving oneself mad, it occasionally helps to stop following the tunnel and linger awhile on some small detail. Two days after the Epstein files were released, there came the latest development in what the Metropolitan Police have called a "conspiracy" to firebomb the British Prime Minister's various properties and motor vehicles in north London. It is an unusual "conspiracy" in that, per Scotland Yard's theory of the case, it appears to have been dreamed up by fetching young Slav twinks who are reported to be "aspiring models", in the way that young black men who meet untimely ends in the United States are all said to be "aspiring rappers". Speaking of ends, timely or otherwise, what do male models do while they're still in the "aspiring" phase? If you've ever met an "aspiring model", you might share my scepticism that these are the lads to whom one would entrust a "conspiracy" to target a G7 head of government. Three of the "men" were born in Ukraine - Petro Pochynok, 35; Stanislav Carpiuc, 27; and Roman Lavrynovych, 21. To date, the fourth's origins have not been disclosed - Israeli? Russian? Uighur? Minnesota Somali? In one of his rare statements on his rare propensity to attract incendiary Ukrainian male models, Sir Keir told the Commons that the firebombings of his many homes represent "an attack on all of us, on democracy and the values that we stand for". So he's bravely taking Roman's candle so that you don't have to. At any rate, on Sunday the fifth twink dropped. He is reported to be nineteen. Which means he would have been eighteen at the time of the Starmer firebombings last May. Which means he would have been seventeen at the time Sir Keir last lived at the targeted properties. Hmm. Seventeen. I wonder how old the sixth "aspiring model" will be. To switch songs in mid-sentence, you follow your Donbass twink down one tunnel after another only to find you're now in a big French pop hit from the Seventies for poor, doomed Dalida: Il venait d'avoir dix-huit ans C'etait le plus bel argument De sa victoire Il ne m'a pas parle d'amour Il pensait que les mots d'amour Sont derisoires... Which means: He had just turned eighteen It was the most beautiful argument For his victory He didn't speak to me of love He thought that words of love Are ridiculous... Instead: Il m'a dit 'c'etait pas si mal' Avec la candeur infernale De sa jeunesse... Which means: He told me 'that wasn't bad' With the infernal candour Of his youth... The candid inferno of Starmer's youths is taking it to a whole other level. On the other hand, Jeffrey Epstein and "Lord" Mandelson do speak words of love - although at one point Jeffrey regrets that their friendship has been "a one-way street", like Sir Keir's with the massed ranks of the Ukrainian male-modelling community. Mandelson responds that "I never left your side ...and I never turned away", except perhaps to move to a more accessible position. In November 2009 Epstein is very concerned about his UK Cabinet pal's involuntary sexual drought: Are you sure the backpressure from you lack of sex is not turning your brain into fois gras To which milord replies: It's certainly a serious problem... Cure coming to London from S'hai next weekend. Ah, so the Chinese are in on it too? Come the weekend, the correspondence continues. Jeffrey: Has the eagle landed? Peter: Long landing thanks... now going to eat something. Jeffrey: Are you being disgusting? I think that goes without saying. At the time of this exchange Mandelson was Lord President of Her (late) Majesty's Privy Council, a very respectable position in the pervocracy that now rules the entire western world. We had occasion to quote Mandy's Canadian equivalent just the other day. No idea whether he's also off to eat something. Serious question for the head honcho at Scotland Yard, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley: "Lord" Mandelson has been credibly accused - by this week's Prime Minister - of serious offences from national-security breaches to outright treason. Why have you not yet raided Mandelson's homes and seized all his devices, as you would for a tweeter such as Lucy Connolly? Or has his "Lordship" said he needs a little more time to wipe the Windows 98 desktop Bill gave him in exchange for the antibiotics from the Privy Council medicine cabinet? (UPDATE! That was quick: The yard has finally got off its arse.) Incidentally, there are some two hundred sovereign states around the world. Don't you find it odd that Sir Keir is getting his fill exclusively from natives of the one country where the plucky valiant menfolk are all supposed to be in the trenches dodging incoming Russian drones? As opposed to being in the Kentish Town trenches helping out a Labour drone gagging for some Ukrainian incoming? Are those blue-and-yellow flag avatars one still sees all over Twitter now strictly a sexual code? Oh, well. The word around Westminster is that Starmer has outlived his uselessness, and Tony Blair's latest candidate, last heard of advocating for a 24/7 panopticon state at the Christmas knees-up of the "Tony Blair Institute", is about to be eased into position. That would be Shabana Mahmoud, who this time next week will be Britain's first Muslima prime minister. With all due respect to the all-seeing surveillance state, that's what's given us the present ruling class of pervert billionaires and their stooges: with an entire political class cordoned off behind the security barrier from more conventional stress-relief, only chaps with private islands and other obliging globalist titans can take care of your needs. That's why sans Epstein Mandelson is reduced to pissing in the street. Starmer's entire public persona is a murky lie; Mandelson spent three decades hiding in plain sight. Hollowed men in caverns where the sun has never shone. The hollow Starmer's eminence grise is the Irish chancer McSweeney, whose mentor was the micturating Mandelson, whose pitcher was the bi-nonce Epstein. It's not going to get any prettier higher up. But, back down at the footling level of "politics", that's your choice in end-stage western democracy: perverts or Muslims - unless you're in an English provincial town, where the two options are combined. Down a tunnel that you follow to a tunnel of its own... girls... boys... Lords President of the Imperial Privy Council... Norwegian princesses, Israeli prime ministers, titans of industry, climate-change activists... The system cannot be saved. There is no going back. We shall have to go through ...to whatever awaits in the last hollow. Mark's international bestseller America Alone: The End of the World as We Know It. If you haven't read the book during its first seventeen years, well, you're missing a treat. It's still in print in hardback and paperback. (Buy it at a 77% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 47% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR) (COMMENT, BELOW) Mark Steyn is an international bestselling author, a Top 41 recording artist, and a leading Canadian human rights activist. Among his books is "The Undocumented Mark Steyn: Don't Say You Weren't Warned". (Buy it at a 49% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 67% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR) SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. President Donald Trump plans to keep Democrats out of a traditionally bipartisan White House gathering of governors typically held as part of the National Governors Association's annual Washington summit, the organization said. According to the governors' offices, the president also revoked invitations sent to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D), the NGA's vice chair; and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) to attend a second White House event scheduled to occur around the summit: a dinner for governors. "This week, I learned that I was uninvited to this year's National Governors Association dinner - a decades-long annual tradition meant to bring governors from both parties together to build bonds and celebrate a shared service to our citizens with the President of the United States," Moore said in a statement Sunday. " It's hard not to see this decision as another example of blatant disrespect and a snub to the spirit of bipartisan federal-state partnership." Moore told CNN's "State of the Union" on Sunday that he was confused by the White House's decision, saying that, just a few weeks ago, he led a bipartisan group of governors who met with the president as Trump signed a memorandum on bringing down energy costs. Moore also said on CNN that it was "not lost" on him that he is the only Black governor of a state. "I find that to be particularly painful, considering the fact that the president is trying to exclude me from an organization that not only my peers have asked me to help to lead, but then also a place where I know I belong in," he said. "I'm never in a room because of someone's benevolence nor kindness. I'm not in a room because of a social experiment. I'm in the room because I belong there and the room was incomplete until I got there." Spokespeople for Polis, as well as representatives of the Democratic Governors Association, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. While Moore and Polis were excluded from the dinner with Trump, some Democrats remained invited to the gathering. The White House did not explain why Democratic governors were not invited to the meeting with Trump, and a spokesperson did not respond to a request to provide a list of Democrats who were invited to the dinner. Trump has frequently clashed with Moore and Polis, and his decision comes after months of conflict between the federal government and Democratic governors. Moore has condemned the president's threat to deploy the National Guard to Baltimore and defund the Maryland's efforts to replace the fallen Key Bridge. Trump has also repeatedly claimed that Baltimore is "crime ridden" despite the fact that the city is experiencing its lowest homicide rate in 50 years. Polis and Trump have repeatedly feuded over Tina Peters, a former county clerk in Colorado who was convicted in state court on felony charges related to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Polis has defended the conviction and refused the White House's request to transfer Peters to a federal prison. Because of this, in December, Trump in a Truth Social post called Polis a "scumbag" and said he should "rot in Hell." The NGA's Washington meetings are expected to take place Feb. 19 to 21. The organization said Friday that the White House meeting will no longer be part of the association's official schedule. In a statement Friday, Brandon Tatum, the interim CEO of the NGA, said that the "bipartisan White House governors meeting is an important tradition, and we are disappointed in the administration's decision to make it a partisan occasion this year." "To disinvite individual governors to the White House sessions undermines an important opportunity for federal-state collaboration," Tatum said. "At this moment in our nation's history, it is critical that institutions continue to stand for unity, dignity and constructive engagement." (COMMENT, BELOW) Are you the journalist Rediff is looking for? > < 23:58 J-K: Northern Railway extends Budgam-Banihal special train to Katra from Feb 11 File image Nearly a week after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah advocated increase in frequency of the trains between Kashmir and Jammu regions, the Northern Railway on Monday extended the service of Budgam-Banihal special train to Katra with effect from February 11. The service of special train numbers... Read more > 23:52 K'taka deputy CM Shivakumar to meet Cong leaders in Delhi on Feb 10 Karnataka deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Monday said that he would go to New Delhi to meet party leaders on February 10.I will be meeting the party leaders who have called me to Delhi. During the visit, I will also meet Union Water Resource Minister C R Patil and legal counsels as well,... Read more > 23:43 UP horror: 2 men gangrape friend's wife after paying Rs 1,000 Two persons were arrested here for allegedly gangraping a friend's wife after paying Rs 1,000 to the husband, police said on Monday. According to the police, a 30-year-old woman -- resident of Faizganj Behta police station area -- lodged a complaint on Sunday evening alleging that her... Read more > 23:39 Three cops, two others injured in separate mob attacks in Bihar At least three police personnel, including a SHO, and two others were injured when mobs went on a rampage in Patna and Saharsa districts on Monday, officials said.In Saharsa's Patarghat locality, policemen were attacked by a mob when they went to rescue an auto-driver who had been held captive by... Read more > 23:15 Latur ZP polls: Cong candidate defeats sister-in-law by two votes A Congress candidate won the Zilla Parishad polls in Latur by a wafer-thin margin of two votes, an official said on Monday. Congress candidate Asha Bhise, who received 6871 votes, defeated her sister-in-law and BJP candidate Sarita Bhise, who garnered 6869 votes, in the Kamkheda Zilla... Read more > 22:48 Delhi pit death: Non-bailable warrants against 2 contractors The Delhi police issued non-bailable warrants against two contractors in connection with the death of a 25-year-old biker after falling into an uncovered DJB pit in the Janakpuri area, an officer said on Monday.The police have also extended judicial custody of a third accused, and sent to... Read more > 21:52 Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra slams Air India over flight delay Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra slammed Air India over its lack of clarity amid a flight delay.Bindra, who won India's first individual Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games, termed Air India's lack of information to the passengers as 'unacceptable'.'Hate to complain, but this is... Read more > 21:45 Man from Bihar arrested in Kolkata with firearms, ammunition The Kolkata police arrested a man from Bihar and seized six firearms and 11 rounds of ammunition from his possession following a tip-off about illegal arms being smuggled into West Bengal, an officer said on Monday.The arrest was made on Sunday night after police received specific intelligence... Read more > 21:16 No SC relief for Sengar in case of death of Unnao rape survivor's father The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi high court to accord an out-of-turn hearing to expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar's plea challenging his conviction in the custodial death case of the Unnao rape survivor's father, and said it be decided within three months. While refusing to... Read more > 21:00 FIR registered over Naravane's unreleased book leak The Delhi police registered an FIR over the circulation of an unpublished book of former Chief of Army Staff Gen M M Naravane on social media, an official statement said Monday. The Delhi Police has taken cognisance of information circulating on social media platforms and online news forums... Read more > 20:54 Three girls killed, 6 injured in temple roof collapse in MP Three girls were killed and six others, including a couple, were injured after the roof of the Mata Temple collapsed in Morena district in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, a police official said. The incident took place at 2pm in Ahrauli village when the roof was being demolished to build a dome,... Read more > 20:12 Kerala: Man arrested for assaulting TTE, police official on train The police on Monday said that a 24-year-old man was arrested for allegedly assaulting a TTE and a police official after he was caught travelling without a ticket on a train in Kochi.The arrested person was identified as Shahil, a native of Mattancherry, who was travelling on the Maveli Express... Read more > 20:00 Indian-Canadian shot dead in shopping centre's parking lot in Toronto File image/Blair Gable/Reuters A 37-year-old Indian-Canadian died after being shot by unidentified men in the parking lot of a busy shopping centre in Toronto, Canada, the police said. In a statement on Sunday, the Toronto Police Service identified the victim as Chandan Kumar Raja Nandakumar of Brampton. On Saturday,... Read more > 19:36 Bihar: 4 girls die by suicide after being scolded by parents Four girls allegedly died by suicide together after their parents scolded them for mingling with boys at a place in Bihar's Aurangabad district, a senior police officer said on Monday. Five girls, aged between 10 and 14 years, had reportedly consumed some poisonous substance on January 29 in... Read more > 19:14 Rupee falls 9 paise to close at 90.74 against US dollar The rupee witnessed a volatile trading session and settled for the day on a lower note, down 9 paise at 90.74 (provisional) against the US dollar on Monday, as traders assessed the details of the India-US interim trade framework. Forex traders said the rupee witnessed high volatility as the... Read more > 19:00 Deaths of 2 children at Kolkata hospital trigger protests The deaths of two children at the state-run Dr BC Roy PG Institute of Paediatric Sciences in Kolkata triggered protests by their families, who alleged medical negligence. A one-and-a-half-year-old baby from New Town was taken to the hospital on Saturday with fever, but was advised oral... Read more > 18:35 BSE Sensex top gainers today Benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty extended their gains for the second straight session on Monday, driven by robust buying across all segments after India and the US reached a trade deal, putting an end to tariff uncertainties. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 485.35 points, or 0.58... Read more > 18:12 Will not allow obstruction in Bengal SIR exercise: SC Amid West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's apprehension of mass exclusion of voters in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state, the Supreme Court on Monday said it would not allow anyone to create an impediment in the exercise. A bench comprising Chief... Read more > 18:05 Indore varsity mulls fines for colleges lacking greenery on campus File image In a push for environmental conservation, Devi Ahilya University in Indore is considering imposing fines on colleges that fail to maintain adequate greenery on their campuses, an official from the varsity said on Monday. The Madhya Pradesh government's higher education department has always... Read more > 17:49 Stones hurled at Kashi Mahakal Express in Kanpur Unidentified persons allegedly pelted stones at the Kashi Mahakal Express near Bhimsen railway station here, damaging a window of a First AC coach and causing panic among passengers. No one was injured in the incident that occurred around 9 pm on Sunday, shortly after the train, travelling... Read more > 17:21 Bengaluru realtor's death: SIT examines 9-page note Confident Group chairman CJ Roy/Image courtesy Confident Group website The SIT probing the alleged suicide of Confident Group chairman C J Roy is examining multiple papers and documents seized during the investigation, including a nine-page note purportedly written by the real estate baron in red ink, police sources said on Monday. We are currently examining... Read more > 16:43 Meta-WhatsApp privacy policy case: SC defers hearing to Feb 23 The Supreme Court on Monday deferred to February 23 pleas of Meta Platforms Inc and WhatsApp against a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order imposing a penalty of Rs 213.14 crore over privacy policy. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya... Read more > 16:19 Tiruchi Siva submits breach of privilege notice against Piyush Goyal Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP Tiruchi Siva on Monday submitted a notice of breach of privilege in the Rajya Sabha against Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for giving details of the Indo-US trade deal outside the House when Parliament was in session.When the House met for the day, Siva... Read more > 16:09 Now you can withdraw your EPF money through UPI Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com Subscribers of retirement fund body EPFO will be able to withdraw their employees' provident fund (EPF) directly into their bank accounts through UPI payment gateway using its newly designed mobile application to be launched in April this year, a top source said. The labour ministry is... Read more > 15:41 Assam CM seeks Gaurav Gogoi's explanation over 'Rawalpindi' visit Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday demanded a 'transparant explanation' from Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi over his 'visit to Rawalpindi district of Pakistan', asserting that his visa 'explicitly permitted travel only to Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad'.Sarma, in a post on X, said... Read more > 15:17 Sharad Pawar rushed to hospital in Pune after breathing problems NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar was taken to a hospital in Pune city from his residence in Baramati on Monday afternoon following complaints related to the throat as well as coughing. A close aide said the 85-year-old opposition stalwart was being taken to Ruby Hall Clinic as he is suffering... Read more > 15:15 Fire in Mumbai building: Woman killed, another injured An elderly woman was killed and another was injured when a fire broke out at a 13-storey building in Mumbai on Monday morning, officials said.The blaze erupted on the 13th floor of Suvidha Pearl Building in Vile Parle (East) in the city's western suburbs at 9.51 am, they said.At least five fire... Read more > 14:38 Assam CM 'inciting genocide': Gaurav Gogoi Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Monday accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of 'inciting genocide' against Muslims through his videos, and urged police to take suo motu cognisance.Gogoi was alluding to a now-deleted video, shared by the state Bharatiya Janata Party on X,... Read more > 14:20 HC grants bail to accused in Baba Siddique murder case The Bombay high court on Monday granted bail to Akashdeep Karaj Singh, an accused in the murder of Congress leader and former MLA Baba Siddique, making him the first person to get relief in the case.A bench of Justice Neela Gokhale directed Singh, a resident of Punjab, not to leave Mumbai until... Read more > 14:09 TN policeman caught on video abusing migrant worker A video clip, purportedly showing a policeman verbally abusing a migrant worker employed at a roadside eatery in Erode, Tamil Nadu, has gone viral and authorities said on Monday that the errant personnel has been transferred to the Armed Reserve.The policeman, who appeared to be furious, had... Read more > 13:50 Kharge not allowed to speak, Oppn walks out of RS Opposition members of the Rajya Sabha on Monday staged a walkout from the House while raising the issue of LoP Mallikarjun Kharge not being allowed to speak.Congress member Kharge rose during Question Hour to say that the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to... Read more > 13:35 Bomb threat to Patna court: Pappu Yadav's bail plea remains unheard An email threatening to blow up the Patna Civil court premises was received on Monday, sending the administration into a tizzy, in the second such instance of its kind in a month.Police personnel, who rushed to the spot to carry out searches, were so far tight-lipped, even as judicial work was... Read more > 13:01 Punjab law student kills girl in classroom, shoots self Representational image. Pic: Courtesy Victoria/Pixabay.com A first-year law college student in Punjab's Tarn Taran district allegedly shot dead a fellow student on Monday and later shot himself with the same weapon, the police said.Prince Raj opened fire on Sandeep Kaur in the classroom, leading to her death. Thereafter, he shot himself too, Deputy... Read more > 12:38 Don't let tech enslave you, Modi tells students Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said students should not let technology enslave them, but use it to increase their potential.In the second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha, he noted that mobile phones have become masters of some children, who cannot even eat food without them or without a... Read more > 12:13 BJP, Shiv Sena ahead in Maharashtra Zilla Parishad polls The Bharatiya Janata Party and its Mahayuti ally Shiv Sena were ahead of their rivals in the early trends of the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti polls in Maharashtra as counting of votes began on Monday morning.The BJP established an early lead in 26 seats of Zilla Parishads and Eknath... Read more > 12:11 Oppn to move no-confidence motion against Speaker Opposition MPs have planned to move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, sources said on Monday.This comes in the backdrop of the Opposition alleging that the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, was not allowed to speak in the House during the discussion on... Read more > 11:54 Adnan Sami's dad was with PAF: Congress objects to Bhagwat meeting him Pic courtesy: @AdnanSamiLive/X Maharashtra Congress on Monday criticised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its chief Mohan Bhagwat having a meal with singer-composer Adnan Sami, alleging that it amounted to being anti-national. In a post on X, the Opposition party said that Adnan Sami's father had served as a... Read more > 11:34 Meghalaya orders judicial probe into coal mine blast Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday announced a judicial inquiry into the blast at the illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district that claimed the lives of 27 people. The explosion happened last week at the illegal mine in the remote Thangsku area in Mynsngat... Read more > 11:32 Delhi's AQI worsens, slips into 'poor' category Representational image Delhi's air quality worsened on Monday, slipping back into the 'poor' category after a day's respite in the 'moderate' category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 216, deteriorating from Sunday's AQI of 189. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) SAMEER app,... Read more > 10:48 BJP MP Tejasvi Surya detained Bharatiya Janata Party MP Tejasvi Surya was on Monday detained for staging a demonstration at Jayanagar Metro station demanding affordable public transport in Bengaluru, police said.Surya, who is also the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) national president, staged protest at the Metro Station... Read more > 10:19 France and Canada open consulates in Greenland France and Canada have formally opened diplomatic consulates in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, in a strategic move that underscores growing international engagement in the Arctic amid heightened tensions over US interest in the territory, reported CNN.The semi-autonomous Danish region has become... Read more > 10:01 Several houses set ablaze in Manipur's Ukhrul Armed militants allegedly torched several houses in Manipur's Ukhrul district, as tensions simmered in the area after a Tangkhul Naga community member was 'assaulted' by a group of people, officials said on Monday.Two tribal groups had on Sunday evening engaged in intense stone pelting at Litan... Read more > 09:50 Dalit youth brutally assaulted in UP, loses one eye A Dalit youth was brutally assaulted here and lost eyesight in one eye after an attacker allegedly pierced a motorcycle key when an argument over the former defecating near a canal escalated, police said on Monday.The injured youth, Rahul, in early 20's, was referred in a critical condition from... Read more > 09:18 Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison 'Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in one of the most prominent cases prosecuted under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the city's dissent,' according to Associated... Read more > 09:12 Japan PM Takaichi's LDP secures landslide win in general polls Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported.Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310... Read more > 09:03 2 EVMs found in car in Solapur; SEC promises strict action Two Electronic Voting Machines were found in a car near an eatery in Maharashtra's Solapur district, with the State Election Commission on Sunday promising strict action in the matter while clarifying that the sanctity of the poll process was maintained as these were 'reserve' devices.Elections... Read more > Michael Foale has become the first British-born American to walk in space. Dr Foale originally from Lincolnshire and Dr Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut, stepped out into the open cargo bay of Nasas space shuttle Discovery at 1210 GMT. They were testing a modified space suit and astronaut endurance. With his parents and American wife Mary watching by satellite link in a London TV studio, Dr Foales first words as he peeped down to Earth, 240 miles away, were: Gosh, its high, isnt it? He and Dr Harris clung to each other as they sat on the shuttles robot arm. They moved into the coldest area, in Discoverys shadow, and hung motionless in space for 20 minutes to test the efficiency of new insulation systems in their suits. Dr Harris dedicated his space walk to all African-American achievements and carried with him the flag of the Navajo nation to draw attention to indigenous Americans. Together they manoeuvred a 1.25-tonne space-dust collecting satellite the first of its kind. But their planned five hours out in space were cut short when both astronauts complained of cold and the Nasa control centre called them back into the shuttle at 1620 GMT. They spent more than three hours at an average temperature of -92C. It was Dr Foales boyhood dream to be the first Briton in space but he was beaten by Helen Sharman in 1991 and he emigrated to the US to join Nasa in 1982. A Cambridge graduate, with a doctorate in astrophysics, Dr Foale learnt to fly while he was at university and has already spent more than 436 hours in space since 1992. Discoverys current mission is to last a total of eight days in preparation for building the international space station, scheduled to begin in 1997. Courtesy BBC News In context Michael Foale was awarded the Order of Friendship by Russian President Boris Yeltsin in April 1998 for his subsequent four-month mission to the Russian space station Mir in 1997. Mr Foale later said he thought he was going to die when a supply ship collided with the 14-year-old space station probably the worst accident in orbit. The first section of the International Space Station (ISS) was finally launched in November 1998 and the first three man crew took up long-term residence two years later. The 16-nation, multi-billion-dollar project is due for completion in 2008. Like this: Like Loading... About 10,000 ambulance call-outs in Macau last year were deemed unnecessary, Fire Services Bureau commissioner Wong Kin said, adding that there is a need to educate residents on proper emergency service use. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Wong noted that the bureau handled roughly 50,000 ambulance call-outs in 2025. While most involved genuine emergencies, a portion included non-critical cases such as dizziness, headaches, and minor injuries. As for the ambulance service, last year we had about 50,000 call-outs in total, and ambulance call-outs accounted for 80%, Wong said. We have been conducting publicity campaigns to advise residents not to misuse the ambulance service. As for cases that do not require ambulance service, there were about 10,000 cases that did not require ambulance call-outs. The official added that misunderstandings persist among the public. In the past, many residents had misunderstandings. They believed that if they called the ambulance, they would receive hospital treatment as a priority. Many residents also call the ambulance service for a consultation at the hospital. He explained that about 40,000 cases handled by ambulance attendants were mainly for minor ailments such as dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, contusions, fever, heart disease, and various other illnesses. The commissioner was also asked how patients in critical condition living on outlying islands, such as Taipa and Coloane, are transferred. Wong said the ambulance service primarily focuses on patient transfers to hospitals in Macau. We support the authority and will assist the Health Bureau (SSM) with patient transfers to neighboring regions upon request. Many organizations, like the Red Cross, also help with patient transfers for non-emergency cases, he said. Blocked fire escapes In 2025, the bureau conducted 11,760 inspections and completed 126 administrative penalty procedures, many for obstructions such as crates or motorcycles placed in evacuation routes. Wong said motorcycles are the most common obstruction. About 126 cases have been concluded with a penalty. We stick a notice on the owners motorcycle, requesting its removal when found, he said. Regarding building caretakers, Wong explained that they can also serve as fire safety officers and help supervise building safety. About 10,400 individuals have participated in the fire safety officer training course, he noted. Large-scale rescue teams Following a deadly blaze in Hong Kong, the media asked whether Macaus fire department can deploy larger-scale rescue teams and if the bureau is open to suggestions for improvement. As for the scale of the training, we are open to opinions. We have exercises for different scenarios, such as evacuation drills. We also communicate with enterprises and companies to conduct drills in case of emergency, Wong said. We are open to opinions regarding the possibility of holding different kinds of exercises. For different types of premises, we have been conducting zone-specific exercises. He added, We also need to know the number of attendees willing to take part in this kind of training, underscoring the importance of participation to ensure readiness in emergencies. Residential safety measures Wong emphasized adherence to regulatory requirements while taking additional precautions. For residential units, residents must follow basic regulatory requirements. Some residents choose to purchase firefighting equipment themselves for safety reasons. The bureau provides information about different kinds of fire extinguishers approved by us on our website, he said. There are national standards for this type of equipment. Residents should purchase such equipment from reputable merchants that comply with national safety standards. For example, fire extinguishers purchased for home use should meet these standards, Wong added. He also stressed the ongoing risks of household accidents. Regarding building fires that occurred last year, many were attributed to residents forgetting to turn off cooking appliances, with a total of 200 cases recorded, including 25 cases in which smoke was emitted from gas appliances, he said. Global fire safety training Since the implementation of the legal regime for fire safety in buildings and premises in 2022, the bureau conducted about 10,000 inspections last year. Wong said the department has also strengthened training for its fire crews through regional and international collaboration. Following a deadly blaze in a neighboring region, we continue to upgrade the professional training of the fire crew through field exchanges and training courses to enhance their knowledge. We continue to learn from neighboring regions and the mainland, such as Singapore, to exchange views on different issues related to firefighting operations, he said. He noted that these initiatives are designed not only to improve firefighting skills but also to ensure the safety of the crews themselves. Regular training, both locally and abroad, is now a central part of the bureaus strategy to maintain readiness for a wide range of emergencies. Ricaela Diputado Like this: Like Loading... China will ban hidden door handles on cars, commonly used on Teslas electric vehicles and many other EV models, starting next year. All car doors must include a mechanical release function for handles, except for the tailgate, according to details released by Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on Monday. Officials said the policy aims to address safety concerns after fatal EV accidents where electronic doors reportedly failed to operate and trapped passengers inside vehicles. The new requirement for both internal and external door handles will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. For car models that were already approved, carmakers will have until Jan. 1, 2029, to make design changes to match the regulations. Vehicles including Teslas Model Y and Model 3, BMWs iX3, and other models by many Chinese brands feature retractable car door handles that could be subject to the new rules. A draft of the proposed rules was published by Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in September for public comment. Like this: Like Loading... Hong Kongs pro-democracy former media tycoon Jimmy Lai will be sentenced today following his conviction in December under the citys national security law. Lai, the 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, could face up to life in prison in the case that has stirred criticism from some foreign governments. The judiciary said Friday on its website that its calling for the sentencing session at 10 a.m. Monday. Lai was an outspoken critic of Chinas ruling Communist Party and was arrested in 2020 under the national security law that Beijing deemed necessary for the citys stability. His trial was widely seen as an indicator of the decline of press freedom in the former British colony, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997. But the citys government insists the case has nothing to do with media freedom. The sentencing could create tensions between Beijing and foreign governments. Lais conviction already drew criticism from the U.S. and Britain. After the December verdict, U.S. President Donald Trump, who had raised Lais case with China, said he felt so badly. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmers administration has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. Hong Kongs Chief Justice Andrew Cheung said in January that calls for prematurely releasing a defendant based on political causes or identity circumvent legal procedures to ensure accountability and strike at the very heart of the rule of law itself. Lai was found guilty of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. He was accused of conspiring with senior executives of Apple Daily and others to ask foreign forces to impose sanctions or blockades or engage in other hostile activities against Hong Kong or China. Lai pleaded not guilty to all charges, while the six former Apple Daily journalists and two activists who are co-defendants entered pleas that could result in reduced sentences. They all are expected to return to court today to hear their fate. Lai previously was convicted of several lesser offenses related to fraud allegations and his actions in 2019. He is serving a nearly six-year prison term for the fraud case. KANIS LEUNG, HONG KONG, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... A local man was arrested by police last Friday after attempting to recover MOP300,000 lost in an online loan scam by reaching out to the scammers and providing his bank account to facilitate their illegal activities. The Judiciary Police (PJ) held a press conference on Saturday to announce the arrest of the man, who went from being a victim to participating in fraud. The case revealed that in December, the man responded to a loan advertisement on social media, after which the scammers claimed they could provide a loan but required an upfront processing fee. Ultimately, he was defrauded of MOP300,000, which he later reported to the police. However, police revealed that after reporting the incident, the man continued to communicate with the scammers, agreeing to lend them his bank account to handle the fraudulent funds in hopes of recovering the MOP300,000 he had lost. Eventually, his account was exploited by the scammers to receive payments from a local woman who fell victim to a similar online loan scam, resulting in total losses of HKD620,000. According to police, the case emerged last Friday when the female victim reported the theft to authorities. Investigators noted strong indications of the mans involvement in the conspiracy, as he withdrew all the fraudulent proceeds in cash. However, when police attempted to recover the funds from him, they discovered a shortfall of HKD30,000. Meanwhile, data from the PJ revealed that from January 30 to noon on February 6, a total of 57 fraud leads and tips were reported by the public. Among these, 30 involved impersonation of public security and judicial authorities, 20 were related to phishing SMS scams, five involved online shopping fraud, and two involved investment scams. The PJ expressed significant concern and urged the public to stay informed about anti-fraud updates, emphasizing the importance of enhancing personal awareness and actively sharing information with friends and family to collectively prevent fraud. Like this: Like Loading... As one of Macaus first integrated resort operators with all its casinos recognized as Responsible Gambling Model Units, MGM remains steadfast in upholding the values of integrity, innovation and pragmatic execution in promoting responsible gaming (RG). MGMs commitment is deeply embedded in its corporate culture and extends beyond compliance, reflecting its vision to foster a healthy and sustainable community. Since 2023, MGM has launched the MGM Responsible Gaming Community Engagement Scheme, a flagship initiative designed to enhance public understanding of RG and encourage healthy financial management across diverse audiences, including primary, secondary and university students; youth; families; tourists; and industry professionals. Through creative, interactive and educational approaches, MGM seeks to empower the public with essential knowledge and skills to make informed and responsible decisions. Building on this strong foundation, MGM has delivered meaningful impact through a series of industry-first activities, including: School Outreach MGM is the first integrated resort operator to launch the financial educational drama school tour series, delivering nearly 70 sessions to over 12,000 primary and secondary students since 2023. Higher Education Partnerships MGM established the first university partnerships to offer orientation courses on RG and financial wellness for incoming bachelors and masters students. Youth Development & Professional Training MGM conducted more than 800 hours of lectures for over 500 university students and young professionals, advancing their understanding of RG and financial literacy. Furthering its dedication, MGM introduced the MGM Responsible Gaming Employee Care Program in 2025, reaffirming its belief that RG begins with our people. By strengthening its team members knowledge, MGM endeavors to promote responsible gaming from the company to the wider community. Through these ongoing efforts, MGM sets new benchmarks for the industry while supporting Macaus vision for sustainable tourism and community well-being. Guided by its core values and driven by innovation, MGM will further promote responsible gaming, helping to build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future for all. Like this: Like Loading... Center-left Socialist Antonio Jose Seguro scored a decisive victory over hard-right populist Andre Ventura in Portugals runoff presidential election on Sunday (today, Macau time), according to official results with 99.2% of ballots counted. Seguro secured a five-year term at Lisbons pink palace with 66.82% of the vote, against Venturas 33.18%. The runoff tested the depth of support for Venturas confrontational style, which has resonated with a segment of voters and propelled his Chega (Enough) party to become the second-largest force in Portugals parliament. It also served as a barometer of public appetite for Europes broader rightward drift in recent years. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Seguro, writing in Portuguese on social media that Portugals voice for our shared European values remains strong. A veteran Socialist figure, Seguro campaigned as a moderate, pledging cooperation with Portugals center-right minority government and rejecting Venturas anti-establishment and anti-immigration rhetoric. He drew backing from mainstream politicians across the political spectrum seeking to stem the rise of populism. Portugals president is largely a ceremonial figure with no executive authority. Traditionally, the head of state stands above party politics, mediating disputes and easing tensions. Still, the office carries influence and significant powers, including the ability to veto legislation a move parliament can override and, in what Portuguese political jargon dubs the atomic bomb, the authority to dissolve parliament and call early elections. A new cycle Portugal held its third general election in three years last May, marking the countrys most acute spell of political instability in decades. Restoring calm will be a central challenge for the next president. Ventura, an eloquent and theatrical campaigner, rejected political accommodation in favor of a more combative approach, vowing to pursue a political transformation of Portugal. I tried to show theres a different way that we needed a different kind of president, he told reporters. Simply reaching the runoff was a milestone for Ventura and Chega, which have reshaped the political landscape. Immigration has been a central target of his campaign, as foreign workers have become more visible in Portugal in recent years. Portugal is ours, Ventura declared. Campaign billboards across the country bore slogans such as This isnt Bangladesh and Immigrants shouldnt be allowed to live on welfare. Founded less than seven years ago, Chega surged to become the second-largest party in parliament in the May 18, 2025 general election. Seguro will take office next month, replacing center-right President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who is stepping down after serving the constitutional limit of two five-year terms. Ventura wins overseas, but not in Macau Andre Ventura topped the vote in both overseas constituencies Europe and Outside Europe winning 51.88% to Seguros 48.12%. In Macau, however, the result swung firmly the other way. Seguro won 934 votes (68.53%) among Portuguese voters in the city, while Ventura secured 429 (31.47%). A total of 1,403 Portuguese citizens voted in Macau, 971 fewer than in the January 18 first round. Voter abstention rose sharply, from about 96% in the first round to nearly 98%. Macau has more than 57,000 registered Portuguese voters. Children cast ballots in mock poll Children accompanying their parents to polling stations on Sunday were invited to cast mock ballots of their own though the candidates were fictional. Characters popular with children, such as Super Mario and Roblox, appeared on the ballot instead of the two real contenders. Parents said the initiative aimed to spark early interest in democratic participation. A polling station in Lisbon hosted the activity, believed to be the first of its kind during a Portuguese election and uncommon elsewhere. Vote for your favorite character, the childrens ballot read. Catarina Barbosa, mother of eight-year-old Artur, said the exercise was a valuable lesson. I always like to bring him to encourage him, so that when he is 18 he doesnt stay on the couch and also comes to vote, she said. This way, he feels hes voting and fulfilling his civic duties, she told the Associated Press. Artur said he recognized all the characters on the mock ballot. *with Agencies Like this: Like Loading... President Donald Trumps racist social media post featuring former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle was deleted Friday after a backlash from both Republicans and Democrats who criticized the video as offensive. Trump said later Friday that he wont apologize for the post: I didnt make a mistake, he said. The Republican presidents Friday (Macau time) post was blamed on a staffer after widespread backlash, from civil rights leaders to veteran Republican senators, for its treatment of the nations first Black president and first lady. A rare admission of a misstep by the White House, the deletion came hours after press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed fake outrage over the post. After calls for its removal including by Republicans the White House said a staffer had posted the video erroneously. The post was part of a flurry of overnight activity on Trumps Truth Social account that amplified his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him, despite courts around the countryand Trumps first-term attorney general finding no evidence of systemic fraud. Trump has a record of intensely personal criticism of the Obamas and of using incendiary, sometimes racist, rhetoric from feeding the lie that Obama was not a native-born U.S. citizen to crude generalizations about majority-Black countries. BILL BARROW & JOSH BOAK, WASHINGTON, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... The U.S. has given Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach a deal to end the nearly fouryear war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters, as Russian strikes on energy infrastructure forced nuclear power plants to cut output on Saturday. If the June deadline is not met, the Trump administration will likely put pressure on both sides to meet it, he added. The Americans are proposing the parties end the war by the beginning of this summer and will probably put pressure on the parties precisely according to this schedule, Zelenskyy said, speaking to reporters on Friday. Zelenskyys comments were embargoed until Saturday morning. And they say that they want to do everything by June. And they will do everything to end the war. And they want a clear schedule of all events, he said. He said the U.S. proposed holding the next round of trilateral talks next week in their country for the first time, likely in Miami, Zelenskyy said. We confirmed our participation, he added. Zelenskyy said Russia presented the U.S. with a $12 trillion economic proposal which he dubbed the Dmitriev package after Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev. Bilateral economic deals with the U.S. form part of the broader negotiating process. Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure continued with over 400 drones and about 40 missiles launched overnight Saturday, Zelenskyy said in a post on X. Targets included the energy grid, generation facilities and distribution networks. Ukrenergo, the state energy transmission operator, said the attack was the second mass strike on energy infrastructure since the start of the year, forcing nuclear power plants to reduce output. Eight facilities in eight regions came under attack, it said in a statement. As a result of missile strikes on key high-voltage substations that ensured the output of nuclear power units, all nuclear power plants in the territories under control were forced to reduce their load, the statement said. It said the power deficit in the country has increased significantly as a result of the attacks forcing an extension of hourly power outages in all regions of Ukraine. The latest deadline follows U.S.-brokered trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi that produced no breakthrough as the warring parties cling to mutually exclusive demands. Russia is pressing Ukraine to withdraw from the Donbas, where fighting remains intense a condition Kyiv says it will never accept. Difficult issues remained difficult. Ukraine once again confirmed its positions on the Donbas issue. We stand where we stand is the fairest and most reliable model for a ceasefire today, in our opinion, Zelenskyy said. He reiterated that the most challenging topics would be reserved for a trilateral meeting between leaders. Zelenskyy said no common ground was reached on managing the Russianheld Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and expressed skepticism about a U.S. proposal to turn the Donbas region, coveted by Russia, into a free economic zone as a compromise. I do not know whether this can be implemented, because when we talked about a free economic zone, we had different views on it, he said. He said in the last round of talks the negotiators discussed how a ceasefire would be technically monitored. He added that the U.S. has reaffirmed it would play a role in that process. Repeated Russian aerial assaults have in recent months focused on Ukraines power grid, causing blackouts and disrupting the heating and water supply for families during a bitterly cold winter, putting more pressure on Kyiv. Zelenskyy said the U.S. again proposed a ceasefire banning strikes on energy infrastructure. Ukraine is ready to observe such a pause if Russia commits; but he added that when Moscow previously agreed to a one-week pause suggested by the U.S., it was violated after just four days. SAMYA KULLAB, KYIV, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... The number of young blood donors in Macau has continued to decline in recent years. Despite this trend, the citys Blood Donation Transfusion Service reported that total blood collected last year was sufficient, exceeding hospital demand by 8%. In 2025, 13,942 citizens registered to donate, marking a 1.47% year-on-year increase. However, the proportion of donors under 30 fell sharply, from 53.4% in 2016 to just 19.1% last year. The service stressed that platelets have a storage life of only five days, while red blood cells last 42 days, indicating that low donor turnout can jeopardize inventory stability. Like this: Like Loading... The term rules-based international order is on everyones lips these days. Liberal commentators have accused Trump of not respecting it, with his threats to annex Greenland. [Originally published at marxist.ca] Mark Carney, in his famous speech in Davos, announced the end of this rules-based world order. We know the old order is not coming back. We shouldnt mourn it, he said. On the left, some lament that international law is no longer respected and that the UN has been abandoned. The NDP denounced the U.S. attack on Venezuela in these terms: The U.S. attack on Venezuela is neither an act of self defence nor does it have UN Security Council authorization. It is therefore totally illegal and a breach of the UN covenants the U.S. has agreed to uphold as a Member State. Quebec solidaire spokesperson Ruba Ghazal wrote on Twitter: Trumps military intervention is totally unacceptable and must be strongly condemned. It tramples on international law, which must be our compass to prevent us from sinking into the reign of arbitrariness and imperialism. It is not up to Trumps United States, nor any other state, to intervene in a foreign country without first obtaining authorization from the UN. But as Carney admitted before the whole world, this rules-based international order was a fictiona lie to mask the domination of the imperialists. This becomes clear when we look at how this system of rules was established and how it has been used by the powerful throughout history. We should not mourn its demise, but use it to better fight to overthrow imperialism. The myth of the UN The term rules-based international order is generally used to refer to the world order established after the Second World War. According to the myth put forward by the ideologues of the ruling class, this order was characterized by relative peace, free trade, disputes between nations settled by international law and diplomacy, and respect for the sovereignty of nations, all governed by international organizations and under the benevolent aegis of the United States and its NATO allies. The institution that best represents this mythical world order is the UN. But if we take a closer look at the history of the UN, the myth shatters. Far from being the result of some kind of concerted effort by nations, the UN project was essentially born within the U.S. State Department, at the beginning of World War II. At the time, the Roosevelt administration already foresaw that the United States would emerge from the war as the leading, if not the only, world power. The question of how to administer this hegemony was debated in intellectual circles close to the government. The idea first emerged to establish a joint naval force with Great Britain to control the oceans and create an American-British world order. Roosevelt even considered completely disarming all countries other than the United States, Great Britain, and the U.S.S.R. But the need to mask this domination became clear: An imperialistic connotation may all too easily be given to the projected American-British policing of the seas, warned the Council on Foreign Relations, responsible for advising the State Department. Thus was born the idea of concealing this domination within an international organization, inspired by the defunct League of Nations, but much more pliable to American dictates. The UN Charter was essentially written by the United States and negotiated with the Soviet Union and the United Kingdom at the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in 1944. Chinawhich, at the time, was still ruled by the U.S.-aligned bourgeois government of the Kuomintangalso participated, although the three major powers led the discussions. The British and French, fearing that the grand principles serving as a fig leaf for the UNs imperialist objectives would threaten their colonial empires, succeeded in ensuring that the UN Charter did not recognize the right of peoples to self-determination. A system of mandates was also established to legalize the United States capture of several Japanese islands. The 1945 San Francisco conference, attended by 50 nations and which ultimately adopted the Charter, was essentially a rubber-stamping exercise for the decisions taken by the four major powers at Dumbarton Oaks. The U.S. ensured that it controlled the entire proceedings by having the FBI systematically spy on all delegates. But the British and Americans wanted to ensure that they retained control over all important decisions. They did not want to repeat the failure of the UNs predecessor, the League of Nations, which was an empty shell with no power. To maintain control, they established the Security Council, which made all the real decisions and in which they gave themselves veto power. As the Marxist Ted Grant wrote at the time, Britain and America would have liked to be able to use this league as they did the last, as a breeding ground for anti-Soviet plots. But the imperialists had no choice but to also grant the U.S.S.R., the real winner of the war, a seat and veto power on the Security Council. France and China, subordinate partners of the imperialists, also obtained their seats and veto power. A Turkish delegate complained that this voting system was designed to make lawful the projects of large powers and was ensuring them impunity. The General Assembly, meanwhile, has only advisory powers. In Roosevelts words, its sole purpose is to allow small countries to blow off steam. Or as Sumner Welles, one of the architects of the UN Charter, put it: To be frank, what we required was a sop for the smaller states: some organization in which they could be represented and made to feel themselves participants. As expected, the United States emerged from World War II in a position of dominance. By far the largest economy on the planet, their factories and capital rebuilt war-torn Europe. They established military bases around the globe. Only the U.S.S.R. had the strength to stand up to them. As the world divided into a capitalist camp and a Soviet camp, a series of institutions were created to ensure the stability of international trade, facilitate the plundering of poor countries, and curb the spread of the Soviet camp. This led to the creation of the NATO military alliance and the Bretton Woods financial and trade architecture, which established the U.S. dollar as the currency of global trade. Second-tier imperialist powers such as Canada and the Europeans willingly joined this alliance in order to participate in the plunder. Imperialisms fig leaf The UN is one of these institutions, serving as an instrument to legalize Western imperialist hegemony. Time and again, it has been used to legitimize the wars and aggression of Western imperialists. One example is the partition plan for Palestine adopted by the UN Security Council in 1947 without the approval of the Palestinians, which essentially served as legal cover for the theft of half of their territory by the Israelis. Since then, Security Council resolutions on Palestine have been piling up, ignored when they do not suit Israel and enforced when they dojust think of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which is really a one-sided ceasefire, with Israel continuing to bomb Lebanon on a regular basis. We can also think of the Korean War, a war aimed at imposing a dictator aligned with the United States. This imperialist aggression was approved by the UN Security Council (the USSR was boycotting the Security Council at the time in protest against the exclusion of Maoist China), and was therefore a perfectly legal act under international law. Later, it was a UN peacekeeping mission that participated in the coup against the Congos first democratically elected government in 1960, following its liberation from Belgian colonialism. UN forces helped the CIA and Belgian secret services kidnap and assassinate President Patrice Lumumba, one of the leading figures in the struggle for colonial liberation in Africa. We leave it to legal experts to judge whether the UN sanction legally justified the dismemberment of his body and its dissolution in acid. Time and again, the UN has been used to legitimize the wars and aggression of Western imperialists / Image: public domain More recently, there was also the UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti. In 2004, the United States organized a coup detat, with strong Canadian participation, against the democratically elected government of Jean-Bertrand Aristide. Aristide had adopted widely popular policies that uplifted the poor, raised the minimum wage, protected local food production, etc. But these policies also went against French, Canadian and American business interests, like those of rice farmers and garment manufacturers. After years of pressure tactics, Aristide was kidnapped by U.S. special forces and replaced by a more compliant president. The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) was then launched to provide legal cover for the coup regime that replaced Aristide. These UN forces were then used to violently repress the left. Votes at the UN also provide an opportunity for the major powers to exchange favors and buy the votes of poor countries. Resolutions 940 and 937 are examples of this. In 1994, the United States sought to establish a peacekeeping mission in Haiti to overthrow the military junta then in power, which had become a thorn in its side. In exchange for Russias abstention in the Security Council, they agreed to allow Russia to establish its own peacekeeping mission under the UN banner in Georgia, over which Russia was seeking to reestablish control. These peacekeepers were in fact entirely Russian and under Russian command. And to secure Chinas abstention, the United States granted it loans through the World Bank as well as guarantees related to Taiwan. Whose rules? The post-war world order also established the modern form of international law through a series of treaties signed and ratified by most countries around the world, such as the 1961 Vienna Convention, which governs diplomatic relations, and the 1969 Vienna Convention, which governs the law of treaties. But while international law is useful for structuring relations between states when those relations are relatively stable, it is ineffective in preventing the strong from dominating the weak. The reason is quite simple: there is no neutral arbiter who can judge and impose sanctions at the international level. Its application depends on the consent of both parties to a dispute. As Stephen Budiansky puts it, international law is to law what professional wrestling is to wrestling. It is precisely when the strong attack the weak (and no one is stronger than the United States) that international law ceases to function. Thus, international law is useful to imperialist powers in giving an air of legitimacy to their decisions, but they simply throw it out the window when it becomes an obstacle to their interests. As Carney admitted in his speech, international law applied with varying rigour depending on the identity of the accused or the victim. In reality, the international legal system developed since World War II has never been an obstacle to imperialist aggression. The rules-based world order established in the postwar period is one of domination by Western countries, led by the United States, which have used it to conquer markets, steal natural resources, and exploit cheap labor across the globe. Trumps ambitions to take over Greenland can hardly be described as exceptional. It is only the latest in a long list of coups, invasions, and other violations of sovereignty against states that have refused to bow to American dictates. The difference is that this time, Trump did not even bother to hide American imperialism behind the hypocritical mask of international law. And what shocks Western capitalist establishment politicians so much is not the imperialist nature of Trumps actionsafter all, these people had no problem with the genocide in Palestine, with Saudi Arabias aggression against Yemen, or with the kidnapping of Maduro. No, what is causing such outrage in European capitals and in Ottawa is the fact that this time, American imperialism is attacking another Western imperialist country, Denmark. The rules of this rules-based world order were supposed to be the rules of the United States and its NATO allies. Second-tier imperialists like Canada fell closely in line behind the United States in the postwar period, like scavengers gorging themselves on the leftovers left behind by the predator. But as Marxists have been explaining for several years, the American Empire is in relative decline, and new powers, notably China, are emerging. The American imperialists can no longer afford to let the rest of NATO cling to their coattails. Thus they are breaking with the old arrangement with their Canadian and European lackeys. Death to imperialism! Lenin called the League of Nations a thieves kitchen. And when the UN was created, Ted Grant wrote: This new thieves kitchen can solve secondary problems, but cannot solve a single one of the fundamental contradictions which face world capitalism and world imperialism. These contradictions have reached acute levels in our time. The old world order is dying, but imperialism is still very much alive. The world is ravaged by wars, while it is divided into spheres of influence, and each imperialist fights for a larger share of the pie. Through its brazen actions, such as supporting genocide in Palestine and Trumps open imperialist aggression, the ruling class is fueling widespread radicalization. It is no longer able to maintain the illusions of the past, forcing politicians like Carney to admit the harsh reality of capitalism, which is opening the eyes of millions of workers to the true nature of capitalism. As communists, our role is not to spread illusions about the possibility of achieving peace through bourgeois institutions like the UN, but rather to expose them. We must seize these opportunities to reveal the nature of the system to everyone and rally more people to the struggle against capitalism, in order to put an end to this sick system that sows war and misery. Mauritania and Saudi Arabia took steps to strengthen their strategic bilateral ties through a session of the MauritaniaArabia Saudi parliamentary friendship group held on Sunday at the National Assembly in Nouakchott. Chaired by Mauritanian MP Ahamdy Hamadi, the meeting brought together representatives from both countries to emphasise the long-standing historical relationship and the pivotal role of parliamentary diplomacy in consolidating cooperation. Speakers highlighted the importance of fostering legislative coordination, encouraging investment, and facilitating exchanges of expertise to benefit both nations interests. The event underscored the mutual view of the two states as key strategic partners and reaffirmed Nouakchotts commitment to deepening ties with Riyadh. The Sudanese Army says it has repelled an attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Al-Silik area of Blue Nile state in southeastern Sudan. In a statement issued over the weekend, the military said troops from its Fourth Infantry Division confronted RSF fighters and their alleged ally, the Sudan Peoples Liberation MovementNorth (SPLM-N), halting the advance and inflicting significant losses in personnel and equipment. Describing the engagement as decisive, the army said its forces pushed back the attackers and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security and stability in the region. There was no immediate response from the RSF or the SPLM-N. The incident follows a similar clash on 25 January, when the army reported repelling coordinated attacks on the Al-Silik and Malkan areas, also in Blue Nile state. The wider conflict, which began in April 2023, has fractured control across Sudan. The RSF dominates most of the five states in the western Darfur region, while the army retains control of large parts of the remaining 13 States, including Khartoum. The war has claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions and fuelled one of the worlds most severe humanitarian crises. South Sudans government has unveiled a draft budget for the 2025/26 financial year, projecting total expenditure of 8.58 trillion SSP against anticipated revenues of 7.01 trillion SSP, creating a financing gap of 1.57 trillion SSP, or 8% of GDP. Finance Minister Bak Barnaba Chol told parliament the deficit will largely be covered through new borrowing and adjustments to oil revenue projections, highlighting the countrys continued reliance on debt and volatile crude income. The government plans to source funds from external commercial loans, concessional financing, and the IMFs Food Shock Window, while prioritising low-cost borrowing. Total debt servicing is projected at $187.3 million (SSP 842.4 billion), with principal repayments of $178.5 million (SSP 802.85 billion) mainly owed to commercial creditors, including Sahara Energy and Nasdec. Bilateral debt, primarily to China, totals $11.45 million, while multilateral lenders are due about $630,000. The budget adopts an expansionary fiscal stance to support economic recovery, targeting 5.3% real GDP growth. It also reveals persistent vulnerabilities, such as heavy dependence on oil revenues, expected to constitute 74% of total income, and risks from regional instability. More than half of planned expenditure will go towards public administration, infrastructure, and security. South Sudan continues to grapple with economic instability a decade after independence, Following years of conflict, oil production disruptions, and limited access to international financing. The Namibian Government has expressed concern over a joint announcement by TotalEnergies and Petrobras regarding the acquisition of equity interests in an offshore petroleum exploration licence, stating that it was not notified in advance as required by law. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy said it was informed only minutes before the public announcement that the French energy major and Brazils state-owned oil company had each acquired a 42.5 per cent stake in Petroleum Exploration Licence 104 (PEL 104). The interests were transferred from Maravilla Oil and Gas and Eight Offshore Investments Holdings. The ministry stressed that under Namibias Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act, any transfer, assignment or acquisition of participating interests in a petroleum licence requires prior ministerial approval. It underscored expectations that all sector players adhere strictly to the countrys legal and regulatory frameworks. PEL 104 is located offshore in the Orange Basin, a frontier area that has drawn heightened international attention following a series of oil and gas discoveries. Namibias national oil company, Namcor, is also a partner in the licence, and authorities noted that the transaction remains subject to regulatory approval. Covering about 11,000 square kilometres in the Luderitz Basin, the block further expands TotalEnergies presence in Namibia, reinforcing the countrys growing strategic significance in global offshore Energy investment. Ethiopia has formally called on Eritrea to withdraw troops it claims are operating inside Ethiopian territory, warning that recent developments point to a dangerous escalation in tensions between the two neighbours. The demand was made in a letter from Ethiopias Foreign Minister, Gedion Timothewos, to his Eritrean counterpart. In the letter, Ethiopia accused Eritrea of outright aggression, alleging that Eritrean forces have crossed into Ethiopias north-eastern border areas and are conducting joint military manoeuvres with rebel groups in the north-west, while also supplying them with weapons. Eritrea has not commented on the latest accusations but has previously denied that its troops crossed the border. Relations between the two countries have long been fraught. Ethiopia and Eritrea fought a devastating border war between 1998 and 2000 that killed more than 100,000 people. Although relations thawed in 2018 after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Asmaraa move that later earned him the Nobel Peace Prizetensions have since resurfaced. The current strain is compounded by Ethiopias renewed push for access to the sea, which Mr Abiy has described as an existential issue. In his letter, the foreign minister suggested that talks on maritime access, including through Eritreas port of Assab, could begin if Eritrean troops withdrew. The deterioration in ties follows shifting alliances after Ethiopias 20202022 civil war in Tigray. While Eritrea previously backed Ethiopias federal forces, Addis Ababa now accuses Asmara of supporting Tigrayan rebels opposed to the peace deal. Eritrea has rejected these claims, accusing Ethiopia of fabricating pretexts for war. The escalating rhetoric has heightened fears of a renewed conflict between the two countries, raising concerns across the Horn of Africa about regional stability and the human cost of another war. South Africa has announced plans to withdraw its troops from the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), bringing to a close a 27-year military engagement. The phased pullout is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, according to a statement issued by the presidency on Sunday, February 8. President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed the decision during a telephone conversation with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on 12 January, citing the need to consolidate and realign the resources of the South African National Defence Force. South Africa is currently among MONUSCOs top ten troop- contributing countries, with more than 700 soldiers deployed in support of the missions peacekeeping mandate. Pretoria said it will work closely with the United Nations to finalise withdrawal timelines and operational details, while maintaining strong diplomatic ties with the Congolese government. South Africa also reaffirmed its commitment to regional and multilateral peace initiatives led by the Southern African Development Community, the African Union and the UN. The announcement comes amid continued instability in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebel group controls significant territory, including the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu, seized earlier in 2025. While the Congolese government and the UN accuse Rwanda of backing the rebels, Kigali denies the claims. Efforts to de-escalate the conflict continue, with Congo and the AFC/M23 rebel coalition recently signing an agreement in Qatar to monitor ceasefire terms under the Doha-mediated peace process, supported by the United States, the African Union and other international partners. MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) The stated purpose of Israel President Isaac Herzogs visit to Australia is to support the Jewish community still reeling from an antisemitic attack at Sydneys Bondi Beach that left 15 dead. But his critics warn his presence undermines rather than repairs social cohesion frayed by the far away war in Gaza. Protest rallies are expected to follow the president, who performs a largely ceremonial role as head of state, as he travels to Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra over four days starting Monday. Some critics demand he be arrested in Australia on suspicion of inciting genocide in Gaza. He is the first Israeli head of state to visit Australia since Reuven Rivlin in 2020. Herzogs father, Chaim Herzog, also visited Australia as Israels president in 1986. Heres what to know: The Australian visit comes at a time of extraordinary bilateral tensions Within hours of two gunmen allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group launching their attack in Sydney on Dec. 14 last year, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese, posting on social media your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on the antisemitic fire. Netanyahu had been outraged by Australias decision four months earlier to join France, Britain and Canada in recognizing a Palestinian state. Netanyahu has repeatedly sought to link widespread calls for a Palestinian state, and criticism of Israels military offensive in Gaza, to growing incidents of antisemitism worldwide. Albanese has accused Netanyahu of being in denial over the humanitarian consequences of war in Gaza. Netanyahu has branded the Australian a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australias Jews. Australian Jews have appealed to both leaders to restore diplomatic norms to a bilateral relationship that had been friendly for decades. Albanese has made clear his governments invitation to Herzog to make that state visit was the idea of Jewish leaders. President Herzog is coming particularly to engage with members of the Jewish community who are grieving the loss of 15 innocent lives, Albanese said. People should recognize the solemn nature of the engagement that President Herzog will have with the community of Bondi in particular, and bear that in mind by the way that they respond over coming weeks, he added. Jewish leaders welcome Herzogs visit Sydney-based Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said his community warmly anticipates Herzogs arrival. His visit will lift the spirits of a pained community and we hope will lead to a much-needed recalibration of bilateral relations between two historic allies, Ryvchin said. President Herzog is a patriot and a person of dignity and compassion and holds an office that is above party politics. He is a person who has sadly had to comfort families, police and first responders after terrorist attacks many times, and will know how to reassure and fortify our community in its darkest time, he added. Ryvchin is one of the Australian Jewish leaders who have accused Albaneses center-left Labor Party government of not doing enough to curb an increase in antisemitism in Sydney and Melbourne, where 85% of Australias Jewish population live, since the Israel-Hamas war began in 2023. Herzog sees opportunity to reset relations Herzog, a former head of Israels centrist Labor Party, now holds a job meant to serve as a unifier and moral compass for all Israelis. A onetime rival of Netanyahu, he has good working relations with the prime minister. Ahead of his visit, Herzog told The Associated Press that the primary reason for the trip was to stand with Australias Jewish community as the representative of all Israelis. From thousands of miles away in Israel, we feel the deep pain of our Jewish Australian sisters and brothers. I am coming to show them our love and support at this devastating time, he said. But Herzog also said the visit is an opportunity to reinvigorate relations between Israel and Australia. There is a long history of partnership between our two nations and deeply held shared values, he said, adding that the visit offers a chance to reignite the longstanding bipartisan support for ties between Israel and Australia. I hope to be able to communicate this message of goodwill and friendship to the Australian people, and dispel many of the lies and misinformation spread about Israel over the last two years, he said. Israels critics have called for Herzogs invitation to be withdrawn This is one of the most divisive figures in the world. Bringing him to Australia will undermine social cohesion, it will not rebuild it. It will increase division, it will not bring about national unity, Australian human rights lawyer Chris Sidoti said. Sidoti described the invitation as a crazy idea. Sidoti was one of three experts appointed by the U.N.s Human Rights Council to an inquiry that reported in September last year that Herzog, Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had incited the commission of genocide in Gaza. The findings carry no legal consequence and Israel has rejected genocide allegations against the country as antisemitic blood libel. Sidoti and other lawyers say Australian police could potentially arrest Herzog on suspicion of inciting genocide, which is a crime under Australian law as well as international law. Australian Federal Police have declined to comment. A lawmaker in Albaneses government, Ed Husic, said he was very uncomfortable with Herzogs visit. Husic, a Muslim and vocal critic of Israels conduct in Gaza, said he was concerned that a figure like that doesnt necessarily enhance social cohesion. Some state government lawmakers from Albaneses Labor Party have said they will join a protest in downtown Sydney on Monday planned by the Palestine Action Group activist organization. We need to send a clear message to our government and to the world we are fundamentally opposed to this tour, which is designed to normalize genocide, protest organizer Josh Lees said. Police prepare to use enhanced powers of arrest to control protesters in Sydney In response to the Bondi shooting, the New South Wales state parliament rushed through legislation increasing police powers to arrest protesters in the aftermath of a declared terrorist attack. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said a heightened police response in Sydney during Herzogs visit was necessary to ensure safety. We will have thousands of mourners and thousands of protesters as well as a visiting head of state all in the same city at the same time. And weve got a responsibility to keep people safe in those circumstances, Minns said. Every international city anywhere in the world would apply exactly the same geographical restrictions so that the two groups dont meet and as a result theres not a major confrontation, Minns added. ___ Associated Press writer Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed. By ROD McGUIRK Associated Press OSLO, Norway (AP) A Norwegian ambassador who was involved in Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts in the 1990s and most recently served in Jordan has resigned as she faces scrutiny over her contacts with Jeffrey Epstein, the countrys Foreign Ministry said. The ministry announced Mona Juuls resignation on Sunday evening, days after she was suspended as Norways ambassador to Jordan. That followed reports that Epstein left the children of Juul and her husband, Terje Rd-Larsen, $10 million in a will drawn up shortly before his death by suicide in a New York prison in 2019. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said Juuls decision was correct and necessary. Her contact with the convicted sex offender showed a serious lapse in judgment, he said, adding that the case makes it difficult to restore the trust that the role requires. A ministry investigation into Juuls knowledge of and contact with Epstein will continue, and Juul will continue discussions with the ministry so that the matter can be clarified, Eide said. The ministry said it also launched a review of its funding of and contact with the International Peace Institute, a New York-based think tank, during the period when it was headed by Rd-Larsen. Eide said Rd-Larsen also had shown poor judgment regarding Epstein. Revelations from the Epstein files have reverberated across several countries most prominently the U.K., where the former Prince Andrew has long been under pressure. Prime Minister Keir Starmer now faces calls to resign as he contends with fallout from the relationship between Epstein and former British ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson. Starmer appointed Mandelson in 2024 despite knowing he had ties to Epstein. Rd-Larsen and Juul were among those involved in facilitating the landmark Oslo Accords aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the 1990s. Norways National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime, or kokrim, said Monday that it decided last week to open an investigation of Juul and Rd-Larsen. It said in a statement that Juul is suspected of gross corruption based on her position at the Foreign Ministry, and Rd-Larsen of aiding and abetting gross corruption. Investigators will look among other things into whether Juul received benefits in connection with her position. On Monday, they searched an apartment in Oslos Frogner district and the home of a witness. Juul acknowledged in a statement to Norwegian news agency NTB last week that it had been imprecise to describe her contact with Epstein as minimal, but said that the contact originated in her husbands relationship with Epstein and she had no independent social or professional relationship with him. She wrote that her contact with Epstein had been sporadic and private, not part of her official duties, but acknowledged that she should have been much more careful. The latest batch of Epstein files has cast an unflattering spotlight on other prominent figures in Norway. Crown Princess Mette-Marit on Friday issued an apology to all of you whom I have disappointed after documents offered more details of her relationship with Epstein. kokrim already opened a corruption investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjrn Jagland who also once headed the committee that hands out the Nobel Peace Prize over his ties with Epstein. His lawyer said Jagland would cooperate. Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has reignited his call for a re-population of the Mt Kenya region, urging families to have an average of six children to strengthen the communitys influence in national politics. Speaking on Saturday in Kiambu County during the dowry payment ceremony for Aloise Kinyanjuis wife, Ms. Anne Wangari, Gachagua framed population growth as a cornerstone for Mt Kenyas unity and political power. Kinyanjui is the younger brother to former President William Rutos economic advisor, Moses Kuria. He joined DCP last month and announced plans to vie for Juja parliamentary seat. As your community leader, I am directing you to seriously consider giving birth to at least six children per family. All those fertile men and women in this community, it is over to you, he told the crowd. Gachagua encouraged couples not to fear economic hardships, arguing that the hardworking and enterprising nature of the community would ensure families can raise larger households. He also tied the proposal to his 2027 presidential ambitions, promising to revive key social programs if elected. Tomorrow looks brighter. If you make me your President in the 2027 General Election, I will immediately reinstate the Linda Mama Maternal Health facility that made giving birth free in all public hospitals, he said. Gachagua further pledged to restore free primary and secondary education, while restructuring higher education funding to ensure access for all deserving students. You have no excuse not to add more babies. I soon want to see evidence of couples heeding my call for pregnancies across Mt KenyaYou, Mr. Kinyanjui, dont let me down. I want to see your wife develop a bulge soon, he said, drawing laughter from the gathering. Gachagua also directed a tongue-in-cheek message to local men, saying: Those men yet to return their tools of farming back to the stores should heed the word of your community leader and add babies. Beyond population matters, Gachagua addressed broader challenges facing the youth, criticizing what he called avoidable losses due to extrajudicial killings, substance abuse, and government negligence. He also criticized President Ruto over Kenyans reportedly recruited to fight in Russias war in Ukraine. President Ruto should be accountable for the Kenyans dying in Russia fighting Ukraine. The buck stops with him; he should order a manhunt for all those Kenyans and bring them back home. They left the country knowing full well the governments stance, he said. Gachagua also vowed to defend Mt Kenya against attempts to fragment the region politically. I will not accept that. President Ruto and his loyalists must know that the Mountain is not about its subunits. It is not about its boundaries. It is about its people. I wont let anyone divide the community, he stated. He outlined his vision to consolidate Mt Kenya politically in a manner similar to how Nyanza leveraged its numbers under Raila Odinga, ensuring representation in government even without controlling the presidency. They were not winning the presidency but ended up in all governments because of their numbers in a big party. That is what I seek to achieve with DCP, Gachagua said. The DCP leader also promised to protect regional leaders, citing Kiambu County politician Kimani Wamatangi as an example. Especially dont persecute Wamatangi; he is our son. Kiambu County Assembly has done well resisting bribes aimed at impeaching him. The MCAs should stay firm and not be like those leaders who took money to remove me, he said. Political strategist Saitabao Kanchory has said Kenya is already undergoing a significant political shift, arguing that the country has entered a phase of sustained, people-driven change that is unlikely to be reversed. In a statement shared on X on Sunday, February 8, 2026, Kanchory described the developments in Kenya as part of a broader regional momentum that could eventually ripple across East Africa, particularly in Uganda and Tanzania. The lawyer who doubled up as the late Raila Odingas chief agent in the 2022 General Election argued that Kenya has moved beyond the early stages of political agitation and is now firmly in a transition phase, noting that major political transformations rarely occur in a single dramatic moment. Instead, he said, change unfolds gradually through a sequence of interconnected events. The key difference between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania is that the process of revolution has already kicked off in Kenya. Revolutions are not events but a series of events, part of Kanchorys statement reads. According to Kanchory, once such a process begins, it follows a clear trajectory, passing through different stages before reaching a point where citizens decisively shape the direction of governance and national priorities. Once that train leaves the station, it may go through different stops and stages, but the destination is certain: The people shall have their way, Saitabao Kanchorys statement reads. He also pointed to the interconnected nature of politics in the region, noting that developments in one country often influence public discourse and political action in neighbouring states. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania share deep economic links, overlapping political interests, and strong cross-border social ties, making political shifts in Nairobi closely watched in Kampala and Dodoma. Kanchorys remarks come at a time of heightened political debate in Kenya, with growing public scrutiny of governance, accountability, and economic management. Observers say such discussions could shape not only Kenyas political trajectory but also broader conversations about leadership and citizen power across East Africa. Matatu and public transport operators have called off a nationwide strike that threatened to paralyse major routes and leave thousands of commuters stranded. The planned strike, set for Monday, February 9, will not take place following intensive consultations between transport operators, government officials, and security agencies. The talks focused on addressing rising attacks on public service vehicles, particularly by rogue boda boda riders. The suspension, set for two weeks, is intended to allow continued dialogue and the implementation of safety measures to protect commuters and operators while ensuring the transport sector remains functional. Last week, partial strikes by some operators left commuters stranded and forced many to pay higher fares. Intercorridor Mobility Chairperson Joseph Kagai said the decision to suspend the strike reflects goodwill, even though some issues remain unresolved. We have had deliberate engagement, and while some things are still unresolved, because of goodwill, we have agreed to suspend the Monday strike and move forward as we address the matters, Kagai said. We have suspended this strike for two weeks to allow teams to sit at the table, negotiate and iron out all the issues. Peter Murima of the Motorist Association of Kenya warned that attacks on vehicles would face swift action. This decision has been informed by the seriousness we have seen from the government that action will be taken. This is criminal, and anyone captured on camera touching a vehicle will be charged, Murima said. Matatu Owners Association chairman Albert Karakacha confirmed that operators had agreed to give dialogue a chance. We have suspended the strike for 14 days as we wait for the government to see how we can work together to deal with these criminals, Karakacha said. Traffic Commandant Frederick Ochieng described the consultations as productive and said authorities are now focusing on long-term strategies to restore order in the transport sector. We have had very fruitful discussions with matatu stakeholders, and I have been able to share the strategy we agreed on with the boda boda sector, including self-regulation, Ochieng said. We have also engaged the boda boda industry following an accident involving a matatu and a boda boda, and we will work to ensure there is a lasting solution in the transport sector. Regional Police Commander George Seda assured operators and the public that law enforcement agencies would uphold accountability and the rule of law. Kenya is a functional state. If an accident has occurred, some steps must be followed. Let us stop taking the law into our own hands, Seda said. He added that police have obtained video evidence of individuals involved in attacks on vehicles. Once the process is completed, they will be charged, he said, noting that authorities are also working to ensure the boda boda sector operates within the law. The temporary suspension of the strike offers a window for dialogue and coordinated action to make Kenyas transport system safer, but operators and commuters will be watching closely to see whether the proposed solutions translate into lasting protection against attacks. President William Ruto has brushed off attempts to revive the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, declaring that the opposition alliance wont threaten his re-election bid in 2027. Speaking on Sunday after he officially opened the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Pipeline in Embakasi, Nairobi County, Ruto told the Opposition to prepare for a tough contest in the next general election. I am asking the people I am competing with to prepare well. We understand this politics so well, he stated. Ruto dismissed renewed efforts to reorganize Azimio, arguing that the coalition carries no political weight without its former key affiliate, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Now I hear they are reviving Azimio. We will beat Azimio so early in the morning in 2022, he said. Let me ask you, isnt Azimio without ODM dead on arrival? Isnt that true? he posed. Ruto also praised Nairobi County leaders for their continued display of unity. The president acknowledged the cooperation and togetherness that Nairobis political leadership and residents have shown, noting that such unity reflects the spirit the country needs to promote national cohesion and drive transformation. He observed that Nairobi has the potential to lead the way in bringing the nation together so that leaders can focus on key development priorities. Ruto also assured leaders in the city, including the governor and Members of the County Assembly, that the national government remains committed to supporting Nairobi County and its residents. Na mimi nasema asante sana kwa viongozi wa Nairobi city. I can see the unity; I can see the coming together of the leaders and of the people of Nairobi. hio umoja ya watu wananchi wa Nairobi County ndio umoja tunataka iwe kwa taifa la Kenya. Nairobi is going to lead the way in bringing the nation together, Ruto said. He pointed out that he had held consultative meetings with the governor and MCAs, where they agreed on several priority issues aimed at improving the citys operations beyond election cycles, which he described as temporary events. Among the major resolutions was a plan to make Nairobi more accessible and efficient by improving mobility and transport infrastructure. The president has tasked each MCA with identifying a priority critical road within their ward to help open up the city and ease movement. He expressed readiness to allocate resources toward developing these roads to ensure residents enjoy easier transportation. President William Ruto has unveiled a sweeping plan to overhaul Nairobis waste management system, announcing a joint initiative between the national government and Nairobi City County to relocate the Dandora dumpsite and build a modern waste treatment facility. Speaking on February 8, 2026, at the AIC Church Pipeline in Embakasi South, the president said close cooperation between the two levels of government will drive a lasting solution to the capitals long-standing garbage crisis. He said the project aims to restore Nairobis image and improve public health and environmental standards. We have agreed to clean the city of Nairobi. Nairobi cannot be the city in the garbage. We have sat down with the governor. I will get money from the national government, so that we add to that of the county government, so that we can clean the city of Nairobi, Ruto stated. The head of state revealed that the government has already secured land in Ruai for a new landfill, paving the way for the gradual decommissioning and rehabilitation of the Dandora dumpsite, which has served the city for decades. He said waste removal will happen in phases to avoid disrupting waste collection services. Already the contract has been given. We have found land in Ruai. The landfill in Dandora is going to be treated. So the garbage will be removed from Dandora bit by bit, not at once. We want to start to build where we will clean the garbage so that we manufacture fertiliser, energy and other things, he explained. Ruto said the project marks a shift toward sustainable waste management, with the new facility designed to convert refuse into useful products such as fertiliser and energy. He confirmed that contracts for the construction and operation of the plant have already been awarded and implementation has begun. A treatment plant will be built at the Dandora Dumpsite to manage waste, produce fertiliser and generate energy from next year, Ruto said. According to the president, garbage collection across residential estates and urban centres will start on April 1, as part of a citywide clean-up drive. He added that the waste treatment plant is expected to be completed by 2027, aligning with the governments broader urban renewal agenda. I have told those concerned that I want to work with them so that by 2027, the treatment plant will be ready, but we will begin collecting the garbage from April 1, from our estates and towns, so that we clean the city of Nairobi, Ruto said. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who also addressed the congregation, said the national government has committed more than Ksh4 billion to support the project. He noted that the funding will boost waste collection, infrastructure development, and the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable waste management system for the capital. The initiative is expected to reduce environmental pollution, improve public health, and create new opportunities in energy generation and fertiliser production, potentially positioning Nairobi as a cleaner and more livable city. However, many Nairobians remain cautiously optimistic, noting that the capital has witnessed numerous high-profile pledges and pilot projects to clean up the city in the past that failed to translate into lasting change. Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has called on the Mt Kenya community to stay united and honor past political commitments, warning that credibility and trust are key to retaining the regions influence in national politics. Speaking on Saturday during the launch of the Mutithi Health Centre maternity wing in Mwea, Waiguru urged residents to respect the political pact made during former President Uhuru Kenyattas tenure famously phrased as Yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi and warned that breaking promises could weaken the regions bargaining power. Uhuru himself said yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi. As Mt Kenya, we must honour our promise. Politics is about trust, and once you break trust, no one takes you seriously again, Waiguru told the crowd. The governor reminded the community that while Mt Kenya commands a large voting bloc, numbers alone cannot form a government. She cautioned that internal divisions and political betrayal could isolate the region from national decision-making. We may have the numbers, but numbers alone cannot build a government. If Mt Kenya becomes known for breaking agreements, other communities will simply walk away from us, she said. Waiguru also took a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, asserting that his impeachment had weakened his leadership and undermined his ability to champion Mt Kenyas interests effectively. Leadership is about direction and credibility. You cannot lead people when you have lost both. Mt Kenya must be careful not to follow leaders who have no clear political path, she noted. She further urged residents to remain committed to the current administration during challenging times. You do not abandon the house you built simply because it is raining. You stay, fix the roof, and move forward together, Waiguru said. Her remarks come as political temperatures rise in Mt Kenya, with leaders repositioning themselves ahead of future national elections, and loyalty to President William Ruto emerging as a major dividing line. Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari defended Waiguru, praising her development record and growing national influence, suggesting it has unsettled some political players. I have been following your work closely, and the results speak for themselves. Many second-term governors relax and wait for their term to end, but you have continued to deliver, Gitari said. Now that you are a true daughter of the mountain, you are making some men sleepless. They feel threatened because they know you can be picked as Deputy President, he added. Cultural & Historical Significance Houghton originated as a distinguished English surname derived from various places in England called Houghton, meaning 'settlement on a hill spur' or 'high estate.' The name carries strong aristocratic and landed gentry connotations, reflecting its origins among families who owned or managed significant estates. In Christian contexts, Houghton has been associated with religious leadership and educational institutions, particularly through figures like Houghton D. C. Smith who contributed to 19th-century religious movements. The name's geographical roots connect it to the English countryside and the tradition of naming families after their ancestral lands, embodying a sense of heritage, stability, and connection to the land. Throughout history, Houghtons have been prominent in publishing, medicine, and religious leadership, creating a legacy of intellectual and cultural influence that continues in modern times through educational institutions and professional achievements. Cultural & Historical Significance Naalnish holds profound cultural significance within the Navajo tradition as a name that encapsulates core Dine values of productivity, responsibility, and community contribution. In Navajo worldview, work is not simply economic activity but a sacred practice that maintains hozho (beauty, harmony, and balance) in the world. The name reflects the understanding that every individual has a role to play in sustaining the community, and that through diligent work, one honors both ancestors and future generations. This perspective is deeply rooted in Navajo creation stories and the concept of walking in beauty, where productive labor is seen as participating in the ongoing creation and maintenance of the world. The name also connects to traditional Navajo social structure, where specific roles and responsibilities were clearly defined and valued. A person named Naalnish carries the expectation of being a reliable contributor who strengthens family and community through their efforts. This cultural significance extends beyond mere occupation to encompass spiritual responsibility, as work done with good intention and proper method contributes to the overall balance and wellbeing of the Navajo universe. The name serves as a constant reminder of one's place within the interconnected web of relationships that define Navajo society. Thailand PM Anutin powers to emphatic election win Anutin Charnvirakul's Bhumjaithai Party won more than 190 seats in the 500-seat parliament, according to preliminary results released by the election commission. Photo: Reuters Jamie Clarke reports Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's Bhumjaithai Party won a clear victory in Sunday's general election, raising the prospect that a more stable coalition may now succeed in bringing an end to a period of prolonged political instability. Anutin set the stage for the snap election in mid-December during a border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, a move political analysts said appeared to be timed by the conservative leader to cash in on surging nationalism. It is a gamble that paid off for a prime minister, who having taken over after premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the populist Pheu Thai party was ousted over the Cambodian crisis then dissolved parliament less than 100 days later. "Bhumjaithai's victory today is a victory for all Thais, whether you voted for Bhumjaithai Party or not," Anutin told a press briefing. "We have to do the utmost to serve the Thai people to our full ability." With nearly 95 percent of polling stations reporting, preliminary results released by the election commission showed the Bhumjaithai Party winning about 192 seats, compared to 117 for the progressive People's Party, and 74 for the once-dominant Pheu Thai party. A handful of other parties won a combined 117 spots in the 500-seat parliament, according to a Reuters calculation of election commission data. When Anutin dissolved parliament in December, he cited dysfunction and infighting between rival parties as making it impossible to lead a minority government. While the Bhumjaithai Party was unlikely to win a majority outright, the results suggest it is in a strong position to push through campaign pledges, said Napon Jatusripitak, a political scientist at the Bangkok-based Thailand Future think-tank. Those include implementing a consumer subsidy programme and ditching an agreement with Cambodia over maritime claims. "For the first time in a long time, we will likely have a government that has sufficient effective power to govern," he said. "We are seeing what I would describe as a marriage of convenience between technocrats, conservative elites, and traditional politicians." Critical to Anutin's success were his embrace of nationalism and Bhumjaithai's strategy of winning over politicians from rival parties in rural areas, analysts said. "The scale of its victory was unanticipated, perhaps demonstrating that the more nationalist political environment and its ability to consolidate the conservative electorate all worked in its favour," said Mathis Lohatepanont, an independent political analyst. Speaking as results were coming in, People's Party leader Natthaphong Rueangpanyawut conceded that, while some votes had yet to be counted, his party did not look likely to win. Natthaphong said the party would not join a Bhumjaithai-led government but would also not form a competing coalition. "If Bhumjaithai can form a government, then we have to be the opposition," he told a press conference. With a message of structural change and reforms to Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, the People's Party had led most opinion polls during the campaign season. But in a survey conducted during the campaign's final week and released on Sunday, the National Institute for Development Administration projected that Bhumjaithai would be the winner with between 140 and 150 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, ahead of 125-135 for the People's Party. The progressive party's earlier support for Anutin as prime minister was likely a severe miscalculation, undermining its own ideological purity and allowing Bhumjaithai to attain the benefits of incumbency, Mathis said. (Reuters) Police detain members of a cat-theft ring in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Supplied Authorities in Dong Thanh Commune said on Sunday they uncovered the group after monitoring suspicious night-time activities. Officers reported that the thieves traveled by motorbike carrying tools such as electric stun guns, spears, traps, ropes, and bait to catch cats from local households. Following an investigation, police raided a house at 361/61/23, Hamlet 42, Dong Thanh Commune, where six young men were found with stolen cats and equipment. The suspects included Do Trung Phat, 21; Do Quoc Binh, 20; Do Nguyen Anh Quan, 21; Nguyen Thanh Dat, 20; Nguyen Chanh Tin, 22; and Trinh Quoc Huy, 20. Officers also seized pepper spray canisters, which the group admitted they used to fight back if confronted. Suspected cat thieves and seized tools, including traps and pepper spray, are displayed at a police station. Photo: Supplied Phat confessed that the gang gathered at his home in the evenings to prepare traps, often frying fish to use as bait. Around midnight, they split into pairs to hunt cats. He said he typically caught four to five cats a night, selling them to Mai Quy Nhan for about VND90,000 (US$3.5) per kilogram, earning roughly VND400,000 ($16) per theft trip. Police later summoned additional suspects, including Nguyen Gia Khanh, 20; Huynh Van Sang, 31; and Nhan, 68, who allegedly purchased the stolen cats. Investigators determined that Nhan coordinated with Khanh and Tin to order cats, while others carried out the thefts in Dong Thanh and nearby Binh My Commune. After weighing and bagging the cats, the thieves sold them to Nhan for cash. Residents identify and receive their stolen cats in Ho Chi Minh City after police recovery efforts. Photo: Supplied Authorities posted photos of the recovered animals online, enabling 10 residents to reclaim their pets. Senior investigator Le Duc Tuy, police chief in Dong Thanh, confirmed that charges have been filed and the suspects placed in temporary detention. Police are still searching for Bui Van Duong, 20, who remains at large. Officials urged Duong to surrender to receive leniency under the law. Defying reform: Abbas's elections are a direct challenge to President Trump By Lt.-Col. (res.) Maurice Hirsch web posted February 9, 2026 Palestinian Authority (PA) Chairman Mahmoud Abbas is experimenting with the boundaries of democracy. While his experiment has several different goals and target audiences, the underlying principle remains the same: In the PA dominated by Abbas's Fatah party, under the umbrella of the Fatah-dominated Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), democracy, as the Western world sees the term, is dead. In its place, Abbas is turning the PA into a Communist-Soviet style democracy in which everyone can vote, but only for one party. PA Municipal Elections On April 25, 2026, the PA is scheduled to hold municipal elections. In preparation for the event, Abbas has issued several "decrees," the latest of which was issued on January 27, 2026. The goal of the decree was to prevent the participation in the elections of the genocidal Hamas, which planned and executed the October 7, 2023, massacre. While the goal of the decree was certainly worthy, the manner in which Abbas achieved the goal was despicable. Instead of clearly and openly proclaiming that internationally-designated terrorist organizations such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, all of whom participated in the October 7 massacre, cannot participate in the elections because they are genocidal terrorists, Abbas chose a different path. In the decree, Abbas decided to limit participation in the elections to lists and candidates that "commit to the Palestinian Liberation Organisation's program [platform], its international commitments and the decisions of international legitimacy." According to Abbas's theory, since Hamas and PIJ do not accept the PLO's hegemony and dominance, requiring them to swear allegiance to the PLO's platform will exclude them from participating in the elections. More Holes Than Cheese Similar to Swiss cheese, Abbas's decree has more holes than substance. The foremost hole in Abbas's plan is the baseless assumption that committing to the PLO's program is a guarantee for rejecting terror. While the PLO did feign, as part of the Oslo Accords, rejecting violence and terror as a means to achieve the organization's goals, the actions of the last three decades have proven that commitment to be entirely hollow. Instead of striving to achieve peace, the PLO has used the PA as a vehicle to intensify the conflict. Some of these efforts include using the PA education system to brainwash and indoctrinate generations of Palestinians to hate Israel and Israelis and to seek the demise of the former and the death of the latter. The PA media mechanisms are used to incite violence, terror, and murder. Terrorist murderers and other terrorists are not only glorified but also rewarded with substantial cash payments as part of the PLO/PA's infamous "Pay-for-Slay" policy. This is not coincidental. Instead, it is simply the implementation of the PLO's 1974 "Plan of Stages" to destroy Israel. Thus, when Abbas requires that only lists and candidates committed to the PLO's program may participate in the elections, he is not placing substantive restrictions on the participation of the terrorists. Rather, by using ambiguous language, Abbas is actually winking to Hamas and the other terrorists, telling them that they can make the empty promise without giving up on their genocidal goals too. Moreover, to circumvent Abbas's plan, both Hamas and PIJ could simply play along and make the necessary commitment fully acknowledging that there is no mechanism to enforce its actual fulfillment. No less worrying, while Hamas and PIJ would potentially have to feign the acceptance of PLO dominance, the PFLP, itself a murderous terrorist organization that has always rejected the Oslo Accords and openly rejects Israel's right to exist, remains to this day a member of the PLO and would be allowed to participate without any pretense. Abbas's Experimental Balloon to Hoodwink the World The reason Abbas and the PA are making such a big deal about limiting participation in the PA municipal elections to acceptance of PLO dominance is opaquely clear. As part of his commitments to French President Macron, in return for French recognition of the non-existent "State of Palestine," Abbas promised that the general PA elections he promised "will be inclusive and open, based on new party legislation, solely to political forces and candidates that clearly accept the PLO political platform" By implementing this commitment already in anticipation of the PA municipal elections, Abbas is trying to prove his intentions and demonstrate how his feeble restriction on electoral participation actually excludes Hamas. Abbas is hoping that the entire international community will ignore the fact that, while Hamas did participate in the PA's 2006 general elections, it has not participated in the PA's municipal elections. In fact, not only did Hamas actively boycott the 2017 and 2021 PA municipal elections, but the terrorists also prevented those elections from taking place in the Gaza Strip. Notwithstanding this reality, Abbas will no doubt point to the "success" of his new restriction in preventing Hamas participation, in the knowledge that the willfully blind, such as Macron and the other leaders who fell for his lies, will again fall prey to his deftly sleight of hand. Abbas Directly Challenges the Authority of President Trump President Trump's 20-point "Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict," originally presented on September 29, 2025, was adopted by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on November 17, 2025. The plan noted that the Gaza Strip would be governed by the Board of Peace and its organs "until such time as the Palestinian Authority (PA) has satisfactorily completed its reform program, as outlined in various proposals, including President Trump's peace plan in 2020 and the Saudi-French Proposal, and can securely and effectively take back control of Gaza." While President Trump's plan made crystal clear that the PA would not have any governance function in the Gaza Strip until it completed comprehensive reform, the PA decisions and documents organizing the elections, adopted on January 6, 2026, nonetheless indicated that the PA municipal elections would include elections in the "Northern Gaza District," the "Gaza District," the "Deir Al Balah District," the "Khan Yunis District," and the "Rafah District." Needless to say, these PA decisions stand, at the very least, in direct contradiction to Trump's plan and should probably more accurately be understood as a direct challenge by Abbas, the PA Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, and the PA Minister of Local Government, Dr. Eng. Sami Hijjawi, to President Trump's authority. Policy Recommendation As part of the comprehensive reforms needed and to prevent the participation of terrorists in any PA elections, the PA must be forced to adopt legislation prohibiting the registration of any candidates or parties that "commit or advocate racism" or who "pursue the implementation of their aims by unlawful or nondemocratic means." These are the stipulations that the PLO already agreed to as part of the Oslo Accords, but never implemented. The task of ensuring that candidates or parties actually conform and comply with these requirements should not be given, at least initially, to the PA bodies, since it would be akin, literally, to letting the proverbial cat guard the cream or, more accurately, allowing a genocidal jihadist to decide what constitutes terror. Lt.-Col. (res.) Maurice Hirsch served as Director of the Military Prosecution for Judea and Samaria. Since retiring from the IDF, Hirsch worked as the Head of Legal Strategies for Palestinian Media Watch, as a Senior Military Consultant for NGO Monitor, an advisor to the Ministry of Defense, and head of an advisory committee in the Ministry of Interior. Hirsch was the architect of the Israeli law that strips citizenship from Israeli terrorists who have been convicted for terror offenses, sentenced to a custodial sentence, and receive a payment from the Palestinian Authority as a reward for their acts of terror. Home Home Print this page VMPL New Delhi [India], February 9: For thousands of people living with chronic hip, knee, or shoulder pain, the idea of walking freely often feels like a distant dream. But in Surat, that dream is becoming a daily reality at Marina Grand Hospital -- not with fanfare, but through quiet, consistent, and deeply human breakthroughs. Leading this change is Dr. Ashok Suryavanshi, a grounded yet determined orthopaedic surgeon whose gentle demeanour contrasts with the magnitude of his work: over 5,100 successful robotic surgeries in just six years. Marina Grand Hospital holds a national milestone -- India's first centre to perform robot-assisted hip and uni-compartment knee surgeries. But inside its walls, this achievement feels less like a record and more like a responsibility. Here, every surgery, every recovery, and every patient becomes a story worth telling. Where the 3P Philosophy Comes Alive: Precision, Perfection & Personalised Care At the heart of Marina Grand Hospital lies a simple belief -- technology should bend itself around people, not the other way around. This is where the hospital's 3P concept steps in: Precision The ROSA robotic system works with millimetre-level accuracy, acting as a natural extension of the surgeon's hands. It allows Dr. Suryavanshi to see and correct even the tiniest deviations in alignment -- ensuring the joint feels as natural as it should. Perfection Perfection here is not about machines; it is about outcomes. Smaller incisions, minimal blood loss, reduced infection risk, faster mobility -- all of these translate into a surgery experience that feels seamless and a recovery that feels reassuringly swift. Personalised "Technology gives precision, but it is the patient who gives purpose," Dr. Suryavanshi often says.Every surgery is planned around the patient's lifestyle, body structure, comfort level, and long-term mobility -- a level of personalisation that makes recovery more natural and sustainable. The hospital is also India's exclusive centre equipped with the HANA MIZUHO OSI Orthopaedic Table used for the advanced Direct Anterior Approach hip replacement. This technique mirrors the body's own natural movement, allowing the leg to move freely during surgery and giving surgeons real-time imaging -- ensuring alignment, comfort, and longevity. Stories That Stay With You The corridors of Marina Grand Hospital carry stories that remind us why innovation matters. - Kalpanaben Shah, from Mumbai, arrived with intense hip pain that made every step feel impossible. One months after her robotic hip replacement, she walks 3-4 km a day. "The pain that had taken over my life is gone," she says, her smile now effortless. - BharatibenSaveliya had lost sensation in her legs. Even walking a few steps was a struggle. Within 15 days of her robotic knee surgeries, she took her first confident steps. "It feels like getting my life back," she shares. - Kiritbhai Shah, once troubled by severe pain in both legs, now walks several kilometres without discomfort and often jokes that he could "run if needed." - Devenbhai J. Rambhai Patel came in dependent on others for the simplest movements. Today, he walks independently -- calling his surgery "a turning point" in his life. These are not just medical recoveries; they are small celebrations of life, dignity, and renewed independence. Where Precision Becomes Personal At Marina Grand Hospital, robotic surgery is more than advanced technology -- it is a promise. A promise that pain can end, mobility can return, and life can feel full again. Under the guidance of Dr. Ashok Suryavanshi, Precision, Perfection & Personalised care come together to create a healthcare experience rooted in compassion as much as science. For appointments: Marina Grand Hospital, Opp. Nandini-3, VIP Road, SuratPhone: 0261-3512222 | Mobile: 99133 59569Website: marinagrandhospital.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.) Gujarat has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for cooperation with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, a subsidiary of Elon Musk-founded SpaceX, to strengthen the state's digital infrastructure, the state government said on Monday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, on X, confirmed that the partnership aims to accelerate the state's Digital Connectivity Mission. The agreement focuses on providing high-speed satellite-based internet connectivity to remote, border, and underserved regions that currently face significant telecom challenges. This initiative aligns with the Digital India vision to ensure seamless service delivery across all geographical areas. The collaboration follows a preliminary meeting held in December 2025 between the state leadership and Starlink Operations, SpaceX Vice President Lauren Dreyer. Under the terms of the LoI, pilot projects will connect Common Service Centres, e-Governance facilities, government schools, and district disaster management control rooms. The infrastructure will also extend to port facilities and wildlife sanctuaries to enhance monitoring and operational efficiency. During the exchange ceremony in Gandhinagar, Chief Minister Patel expressed confidence in the project's impact on the State's progress. "The implementation of this joint project in the coming future will prove to be a milestone in expanding the state's digital services and will further accelerate the progress of e-Governance," the Chief Minister stated on X. "This LoI will enable high-speed satellite-based internet connectivity in remote, border, tribal and underserved areas with limited telecom infrastructure, accelerating Gujarat's Digital Connectivity Mission and strategic digital initiatives," he further said. The project prioritises digital inclusion in tribal and aspirational districts, including Narmada and Dahod. By establishing reliable connectivity, the government intends to improve the security of police outposts and the stability of disaster management centres. The initiative also covers agricultural research centres and provides smart connectivity for education in state schools. Healthcare services, particularly tele-medicine and operations at Primary Health Centres, are expected to become more accessible through this satellite network. A Joint Working Group, comprising representatives from the Gujarat state government and Starlink, will be formed to oversee the implementation of the agreement. This group will ensure the development of modern digital infrastructure and seamless connectivity across the state. The LoI further includes plans for capacity building through joint training programs for government agencies, schools, and disaster response teams. The agreement also addresses the connectivity needs of GIDC industrial parks, maritime operations, and highway safety systems. On behalf of the state government, Industries Commissioner P. Swaroop exchanged the documents with Starlink India Head Prabhakar Jayakumar. The initiative remains a central component of Gujarat's strategy to contribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. (ANI) Yotta Data Services and BHASHINI announced the successful deployment of a sovereign AI cloud transformation on Yotta's Government Community Cloud and Shakti Cloud. The collaboration marks a significant step in India's efforts toward self-reliant AI capabilities, ensuring that language datasets, models, and citizen interactions remain within national jurisdiction. A Ministry of Electronics & IT press release indicates that BHASHINI now operates entirely on Indian cloud and GPU infrastructure. The development was showcased at 'The India AI Sovereignty Dialogues,' a pre-summit event of the AI Impact Summit 2026. The transition was documented in the 'Sovereign AI Cloud Transformation Report,' which highlights a real-world deployment at the Maha Kumbh 2025. During the event, BHASHINI's multilingual AI services, powered by Yotta's NVIDIA H100-enabled Shakti Cloud, provided real-time translation and voice assistance in over 11 Indian languages. The migration demonstrated that national digital public goods can move from hyperscaler environments to indigenous infrastructure while achieving a 40 per cent performance improvement and up to 30 per cent cost savings. The process involved more than 200 TiB of data and 3.5 billion files with zero data loss. "The successful migration of Bhashini to indigenous cloud and GPU platforms demonstrates that India can build, scale, and secure its sovereign AI systems for the public good. It underscores the IndiaAI Mission's vision of developing sovereign compute capacity, models and deploying AI applications that are responsive toIndia's unique requirements, including the delivery of reliable, real-time, voice-based services at population scale," said Abhishek Singh, IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology; CEO, IndiaAI Mission; and Director General, National Informatics Centre. Amitabh Nag, CEO, Digital India BHASHINI Division, stated, "The move to Yotta's sovereign AI cloud gives BHASHINI greater control, resilience, and scalability as it continues to serve India's linguistic diversity. This transformation strengthens our ability to deliver inclusive, real-time multilingual services and marks a major step forward for Digital Public Infrastructure in AI. It will also serve as a blueprint for future deployments as we transition to a fully sovereign stack." The migration was completed over a period of two to three months, covering BHASHINI's entire AI stack, including datasets, models, and orchestration pipelines. The architecture utilizes open-source, cloud-agnostic components to ensure long-term vendor neutrality. Kavita Bhatia, COO, IndiaAI Mission, said, "BHASHINI's transition to a fully sovereign AI cloud is a significant milestone in IndiaAI Mission's effort to build population-scale AI on Indian infrastructure. It demonstrates that national digital public goods can be securely scaled on indigenous, open platforms without compromising performance. This deployment sets a strong blueprint for future public sector AI initiatives." Sunil Gupta, Co-Founder, Managing Director and CEO, Yotta Data Services, said, "Yotta's successful deployment of BHASHINI on Shakti cloud marks a defining moment for India's data sovereignty journey. This transition highlights that hyperscale, mission-critical AI platforms can be built and operated entirely on sovereign infrastructure, without compromise. The project validates India's ability to run advanced AI workloads on open, interoperable architectures and reflects Yotta's capability to build and operate digital infrastructure at a national scale." The deployed environment has been designed as a modular and reusable reference framework that can be adopted across ministries, public sector units, and large-scale national programs. It provides a clear blueprint for hyperscaler-to-Indian-cloud transitions and reinforces India's ambition to position AI as a secure, inclusive, and sovereign public utility that supports economic growth, digital inclusion, and technological leadership. (ANI) India's distillery industry has urged the government to cut goods and services tax (GST) on flex-fuel vehicles to boost ethanol consumption, as the country faces a surplus of ethanol after achieving its 20% blending target well ahead of schedule, Bharati Balaji, Director of the All India Distillers' Association (AIDA), said on Monday. "Flex-fuel vehicles are significantly more expensive to produce compared with conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, and unless GST is rationalised it will be difficult for manufacturers to scale them up," Bharati Balaji, Director of the All India Distillers Association (AIDA), told ANI on the sidelines of a roundtable on ethanol-diesel and isobutanol blending. Balaji said AIDA has sought a reduction in GST on flex-fuel vehicles as an interim measure while the government works on a policy roadmap beyond E20 through an inter-ministerial committee (IMC). Under the current structure, GST on smaller two-wheelers and four-wheelers is 18%, while larger flex-fuel vehicles attract GST of up to 40%, she said. AIDA has proposed cutting the higher rate to 12% and lowering the 18% slab to 5%. India achieved 20% ethanol blending, known as E20, in 2025, five years ahead of the government's original 2030 deadline, supported by policy incentives that encouraged large investments in grain-based and molasses-based distilleries. As a result, the industry is now grappling with excess ethanol capacity and uncertainty over demand growth beyond E20. Balaji said the association has been engaging with multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Department of Food and Public Distribution and the Prime Minister's Office, seeking clarity and interim relief measures until a post-E20 policy is finalised. In addition to GST cuts, AIDA is pushing for exemptions on state-level road taxes for flex-fuel vehicles to encourage adoption. Balaji cited Sikkim as an example, where road tax exemptions have been extended to flex-fuel and hybrid vehicles as part of efforts to promote cleaner transport. "The association is also seeking a rapid expansion of ethanol dispensing infrastructure. India currently has around 100 ethanol dispensing stations," Balaji said, adding that AIDA wants the country to move towards a Brazil-style model where vehicles can use petrol, ethanol or blended fuels, with pricing reflecting the fuel choice. Such a system would require dual pricing for blended and unblended fuels. Balaji said the government has also indicated that the industry should explore additional green pathways beyond ethanol blending, noting that distilleries are increasingly functioning as bio-refineries. Products such as dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), ethanol, hydrogen, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel can all be derived from the same ecosystem, she said. At the roundtable, AIDA discussed two emerging areas: ethanol-diesel blending and isobutanol blending with diesel. The meeting included domestic industry members, international experts with experience advising governments on ethanol blending, and former public transport officials. The discussions focused on technical feasibility, commercial viability and compatibility with existing systems, Balaji said, adding that the feedback was positive and further engagements with government stakeholders were planned. Beyond road transport, AIDA is also exploring the use of ethanol in maritime fuels. Balaji said shipping remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels and accounts for a significant share of global fuel consumption, making it another potential avenue for biofuels, though the segment is still at an early stage. Balaji said policy clarity has become increasingly urgent amid debates on pollution control and the future of mobility. She cited a Supreme Court order in January 2026 that acknowledged electric vehicles may be the future but said their impact on consumers and the economy still needs evaluation, while asking the Centre for Air Quality Management to examine alternative fuels such as flex-fuels and hydrogen. "Ethanol is an indigenous fuel that supports farmers, reduces pollution and strengthens energy security," she said, adding that the industry was seeking policy support to ensure it remains a central part of India's transition to cleaner transport. Vijendra Singh, President of the All India Distillers Association (AIDA), said industry and policymakers are exploring ways to expand ethanol use beyond petrol blending as India has already achieved 20% ethanol blending (E20). "We represented about 119 distilleries, and now the focus is on how to increase blending further," Singh told ANI, adding that experts discussed ethanol-diesel and isobutanol-diesel blending as possible options. Singh said ethanol consumption is "defined at about 1,000 crore litres under E20," and demand will rise proportionately if blending increases. He noted Brazil's experience shows flex-fuel technology is proven, but its rollout in India will take time. (ANI) DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha on Monday, seeking a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between India and the United States. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US. "The reported draft Tariff and Trade agreement unilaterally announced by the USA is bound to open the floodgates of imports of Agricultural products into India. This will be disastrous for our farmers and farm sector," he wrote. This comes as the framework for the trade deal states that India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. However, the Centre has maintained that the interests of agriculture and other sensitive sectors have been safeguarded while drafting the framework for the deal. Addressing the concern over the import of apples from the US, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal clarified that the Centre has not "opened up" the market for US apples under the interim trade pact, but instead has given them a "quota" that is less than current apple imports, while fully protecting domestic apple growers. Goyal stated that India has not opened its market to agricultural products that remain in surplus in the country. However, he said apples were not produced in surplus, noting that India produces 20-21 lakh tonnes of apples while demand is over 25-26 lakh tonnes. "We are not surplus in apples. The demand for apples is more than 25-26 lakh tons. We produce about 20-21 lakh tons. As we speak, we import 5.5 lakh tons of apples every year. And a large quantity of that comes from the United States of America. We have not opened up apples. We have given them a quota on apples, which we will procure from there. That is less than the Current imports of apples from the USA," Goyal said in an interview with ANI. The Union Minister assured that apple farmers in India will receive protection from import regulations that prevent cheap apples from flooding the market. Meanwhile, the Parliament is scheduled to kickstart the discussion on Union Budget 2026-27, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. (ANI) Trump administration finally gets ICE right By Mark Alexander web posted February 9, 2026 Last week began with echo-chamber proclamations by Leftmedia talkingheads and scribes that the results of a special election for a Texas State Senate seat marked the end of Donald Trump's presidency. Of course, that was hyperbolic nonsense, but the election got the attention of Republican strategists, as it should have. There were two special elections, and one was predictable: Demo Rep. Christian Menefee won Texas's 18th Congressional District, replacing the late Demo Rep. Sylvester Turner. He was sworn in Tuesday by House Speaker Mike Johnson, narrowing the Republican House majority to 218-214. But the State Senate seat win by Demo Taylor Rehmet over Trump-endorsed candidate Leigh Wambsganss for a seat vacated by Republican Kelly Hancock warranted some concern, especially given it was a 14-point victory. DNC Chair Ken Martin gloated, "Republicans just lost a district Trump won by 17 points in Texas. That's not an anomaly, it's a pattern." Actually, not so much a pattern, though Democrats have won in some special and off-year elections since Trump took office. But as Nate Jackson declared in his analysis after Democrat wins in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York last November, blue states vote Democrat. But in the Texas State Senate race, while voter turnout was only 15% in a district that is 35% Hispanic, a 14% margin of victory for a Democrat in a district Trump carried by 17% in 2024 should cause some heartburn. Without Trump on the ballot, retaining the House this November will depend on the Trump coalition. The Texas election was in the tornado of terrible ICE operation optics in Minneapolis. Over the last three weeks, confrontations during those operations resulted in the shooting deaths of two aggressive protesters, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and the latter has triggered nationwide protests against ICE operations. Furthermore, the Department of Justice has opened a civil rights probe into Pretti's death. (For the record, despite all the leftist protests over Pretti, not a single Democrat has said a word about the police officers killed across the country this past week, each of whom is noted on our End of Watch memorial tribute page.) The political optics of the administration's ICE operations since last September have been a public relations disaster because those arrests have not been limited to the "worst of the worst," as Trump has repeatedly promised. Consequently, the Left has successfully weaponized those operations as Pretti's death has galvanized the ICE resistance nationwide. Fortunately, the Trump administration is finally refocusing its deportation efforts on illegal immigrants who are violent felony offenders. As Border Czar Tom Homan insisted last year, the focus all along should have been arresting and deporting the "worst of the worst." And as I noted last week, the reputable Pew Research Center reports that nearly all Americans (97%) "support deporting those who have committed violent crimes." This refocus needs to be loud and clear moving forward in order to stem the decline in Hispanic support. That decline was a factor in the Texas State Senate race, and if it continues, that will have dire consequences for Republican retention of the House in the midterms this year. Another indication that Trump and company finally understand the political implications is the president's response to the Demos' partial government shutdown to defund DHS. Because of the Demos' anti-ICE momentum, this shutdown was going to be more politically successful than their last shutdown over healthcare. Despite the fact that defunding DHS would only cut funding for TSA and FEMA ICE is already funded through 2029 Trump realized that the Demo/Leftmedia propaganda machine would win the public opinion battle over ICE. Consequently, he convinced House leaders not to add the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act (requiring, among other things, voter IDs), since Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) was already prepared to block it in the Senate. Fortunately, Schumer is now facing a backlash after repeating the now-worn-out canard that requiring voter ID is "nothing more than Jim Crow 2.0." As Douglas Andrews suggested Tuesday, Trump and the GOP should force Schumer and his fellow Democrats to filibuster the SAVE Act the old-fashioned way, railing for hours on end against requiring voter IDs. As he wrote, "According to Gallup, a requirement to present photo ID before voting is favored by 84% of Americans." He also noted "requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote for the first time is favored by 83% of Americans." In fact, 82% of Latinos, 76% of Blacks, and even 71% of Democrats support requiring a photo ID to vote. But for now, Trump determined that getting the rest of the government funded was more important than letting it be held hostage by the Demos' Defund DHS charade. However, that charade is not over Trump's signature on the funding bill just postponed further debate on ICE until 13 February. We will see if that buys Republicans enough time to turn public opinion on this issue. However, Senate Republican Leader John Thune may resurrect the SAVE Act in the Senate and force Schumer's hand, while rejecting Trump's call to "nationalize elections." Beyond the ICE optics, let me say again that the Trump administration can boast an extraordinary record of domestic and foreign policy success over the past year. And the economy, the top concern for voters, is headed in the right direction. It remains to be seen if Trump's efforts to refocus on "affordability" will move the voter approval needle in time for the midterms. However, despite the MSM's constant churn about midterm elections as if they were tomorrow, there is time for Trump to refocus on the economy and taxes. Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. BJP leader Kummanam Rajasekharan has demanded strict action by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in the Sabarimala gold theft case, alleging that Congress leaders had close connections with those involved in the scandal. Commenting on the alleged role of Congress MP Adoor Prakash, Rajasekharan pointed to his links with those accused in the case. "It is evident that Adoor Prakash has got enough connections with several culprits in the gold theft case of the Sabarimala temple. It is very shameful to note that these types of Congress leaders are doing things that are very beneficial for the culprits." He further demanded a thorough investigation by the SIT into this theft case, which he believed wounded Kerala devotees. "The SIT should take strict action against the people who are involved in this case. It should be thoroughly investigated because this theft case has wounded the devotees in Kerala," Rajasekharan said. The remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of Congress leaders in the state, following revelations related to MP Anto Antony's financial dealings. Kerala Minister Veena George on Sunday highlighted allegations that Antony failed to return Rs 2 crore borrowed from a finance company for his 2019 Lok Sabha election campaign, calling the matter "serious" and urging the party to respond. Meanwhile, SIT officials on Saturday questioned UDF convenor and MP Adoor Prakash at the Crime Branch headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. Prakash later stated that he had provided "clear answers" and that the investigation team had not raised questions about his financial matters. "I gave clear answers to the questions asked by the investigation team. It is for the investigating officers to say whether my replies were satisfactory. The investigation team did not ask about my financial matters," Prakash said. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday issued a summons to Unnikrishnan Potti for detailed interrogation in the Sabarimala gold theft case, in which he is the main accused. Potti was released on Thursday after the Kollam Vigilance Court granted him statutory bail in the case being probed by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Potti is accused of misappropriating gold from the Dwarapalaka idols, the sanctum sanctorum, pillars, and door frames of the Sabarimala temple. Three other accused, former administrative officer Murari Babu, former executive officer Sudeesh Kumar, and former administrative officer S Sreekumar, have also been granted bail. The Sabarimala gold theft case concerns allegations of the misappropriation of approximately 4.54 kilograms of gold from sacred temple artefacts, including the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) door frames and Dwarapalaka idols. The theft allegedly occurred in 2019 under the pretext of refinishing and re-gold-plating temple structures. The controversy traces its origins to a 1998 donation by industrialist Vijay Mallya, who had gifted 30.3 kilograms of gold and 1,900 kilograms of copper for gold plating and cladding work at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. Subsequent inspections and court-monitored inquiries revealed discrepancies between the donated gold and the quantity allegedly used. (ANI) BJP MLA Vungjagin Valte was airlifted to Delhi on Sunday in an air ambulance for a medical check-up following injuries sustained in an alleged violent attack amid ongoing communal tensions in the state. Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand received the Valte at Imphal Airport before his departure. From Churachandpur, Vungjagin Valte's son, David Mang Valte, provided an update on his father's health. Speaking to ANI, he said, "The day before yesterday, we came to know that he has a lung problem. Now his condition is a little bit stable. He is critical after he suffered from that mob violence. His health is not in good condition for now." He further explained the circumstances leading to the attack, stating, "Due to the communal crisis between the Kuki, the Maiti, and the Zomi communities, he went to visit the former CM of Manipur. On his way back home, he was attacked by the Arambai Tenggol." Meanwhile, speaking to reporters, BJP MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh said that the new government under CM Yumnam Khemchand is focused on restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur. "Following the formation of the new popular government in Manipur, sustained efforts are underway under the leadership of the CM, Yumnam Khemchand. We are working to restore peace and normalcy in the state. All the people of Manipur are wishing for his speedy recovery," he added. An ethnic conflict erupted in Manipur in May 2023, and the discord between the Meitei and Kuki communities persisted for a couple of years. The conflict has inflicted lasting damage on Manipur, hindering its economy, disrupting its social cohesion, and destabilising its political landscape. Meanwhile, the protest was held recently, specifically triggered by the swearing-in of new Deputy Chief Ministers of Manipur, between Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho. Anger erupted as the protesters opposed three Kuki Zomi MLAs joining the Manipur Government, with Nemcha having been sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister and two others, LM Khaute and Ngursanglur, reportedly due to be sworn in. Vehemently opposing the recent joining of the Manipur government by three of their MLAs, out of ten, staged a massive protest demanding justice. The unrest reportedly began on Thursday at around 6 pm in the Tuibong Main Market area, where hundreds of young protesters attempted to push security forces back to their barracks. However, when the security forces were reluctant to comply, confrontations escalated side by side with stone pelting, while others burnt tyres in the middle of the road. Assam Rifles officials, including the Commander of the 27 Sectors, were deployed to calm the situation, but initial attempts yielded little success. Eventually, security forces temporarily retreated but maintained positions, while the protesters pressed forward. Throughout the night, teargas shelling continued intermittently as the mob regrouped several times after dispersal. At around 11:00 pm, security personnel resorted to a lathi charge to push back the mob. However, the situation remained volatile as the mob once again regrouped and resumed attacks on the forces. On Wednesday, Bharatiya Janata Party Manipur Legislature Party leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the state's Chief Minister, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administering the oath of office at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Imphal. Senior legislators Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho also took the oath as the Deputy Chief Ministers of Manipur, joining the new state cabinet following the formal withdrawal of President's Rule. BJP workers gathered at the party headquarters in Imphal to celebrate the appointment of Yumnam Khemchand Singh as the leader of the BJP legislative party and the next Chief Minister of Manipur. (ANI) BJP leader Dilip Ghosh on Monday accused the West Bengal government of failing to protect Hindus in the state, alleging rising atrocities against women and attacks on opposition workers. Speaking to the reporters in Kolkata, Ghosh said, "The kind of incidents happening in Bengal today, the atrocities against women, the attacks on workers of opposition parties, and when we hold our programs, the police take down our flags. The police and goons are working together to do this. The Hindu community is being pushed into this situation." Ghosh claimed that police and local goons are working together to target Hindus, forcing many to migrate from Murshidabad to Malda. He urged the Hindu community to unite and elect leaders who can safeguard their interests. "Now, Hindus are migrating from Murshidabad to Malda in Bengal. Therefore, to protect Hindus, Hindus themselves will have to come forward and choose a leader who will protect them," he said. Politics in West Bengal has heated up as the state is set to hold Assembly Elections later this year. The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) faces a major challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Amid this, the TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has not initiated any alliance discussions with the Congress or any ally, despite being part of the Opposition's INDIA Bloc. A day earlier, Union Minister Giriraj Singh said that Hindus across the country and the world must unite, asserting that there are very few nations for Hindus globally. Speaking to ANI, he said the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections would be a "do-or-die" battle. "Hindus in the country should also unite, and Hindus around the world should too. There aren't many countries for Hindus. The election in Bengal this time will be a do-or-die battle. In every home in Bengal, a Gopal Patha will have to emerge. Otherwise, they (TMC) will have us slaughtered," Singh said. (ANI) BJP MP Tejasvi Surya slammed Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, holding him responsible for the proposed Bengaluru Metro fare hike. This comes amid the ongoing dispute between the Congress-led Karnataka government and the Centre, with each blaming the other for the proposed metro fare hike. Sharing Siddaramaiah's year-old social media post in which he directed the reduction of metro fares, Tejasvi Surya asked how the CM ordered a change in the fare if he claims he does not have the authority to hike it. "Where did CM get the authority to direct the reduction or revision of fares last time? If he didn't have authority, like he claims now, to fix or increase the price, where did he get authority to reduce or revise the price? The answer to your question lies there. Cut the drama," the BJP MP wrote on X on Sunday. Tejasvi Surya's remarks followed a social media post by Karnataka Congress, blaming the Centre and the BJP for the fare hike. "The BJP MPs' 'Emergency Exit' strategy on Namma Metro fares is pure hypocrisy. They claimed the Union Government had no role in the hike, yet now they're pleading with Delhi to 'temporarily hold' it. If they don't have the power to set the price, how do they suddenly have the power to pause it? Shameless hypocrisy," Karnataka Congress posted on X. Earlier on Sunday, Tejasvi Surya said the Karnataka government repeatedly asked the Fare Fixation Committee to increase metro fares. He further said that the state government proposed increasing Bengaluru metro fares by 5 per cent, stating that this would burden commuters and urging the state to conduct periodic fare revisions as mandated by law. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has maintained that no one has sought his opinion on the metro fare hike, noting that the Union Secretary headed the metro fare fixation committee. (ANI) In a shocking incident, a minor was killed, and another young man was seriously injured in a stabbing that took place in the Moti Nagar area of Delhi on Sunday evening. The sequence of events began around 6:37 PM, when the Moti Nagar police station received a report that a minor was being rushed to the hospital without signs of life. Upon examination, medical personnel found a fatal stab wound located beneath the boy's right shoulder. Shortly thereafter, at 7:50 PM, information was received about another injured person. Identified as Mohammad Danish, a 25-year-old male, he was found with a stab wound to the back. Danish was initially taken to Acharya Bhikshu Hospital for emergency treatment before being referred to a higher-level medical facility to address the severity of his injuries. He is currently being treated at AIIMS Trauma Centre, with his condition being monitored closely. Both incidents reportedly occurred in a DDA park near DLF Moti Nagar, a popular area frequented by locals. Eyewitness accounts have yet to be fully established, as the police urge anyone with information to come forward. The motive behind the stabbings remains unclear. As the story develops, more details are anticipated regarding the investigation and the recovery of the injured victim. According to the Delhi Police, cases are being registered, and further investigation is underway. (ANI) Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition and BJP leader Jairam Thakur criticised the Congress-led state government over the worsening economic crisis. He said urgent measures are needed and called the situation "serious." Speaking to ANI on Sunday, Thakur said, "The Congress government is running in Himachal Pradesh under his (Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu) leadership. The responsibility lies with the government to find a way to pull Himachal Pradesh out of this economic crisis... This is a serious situation." "All subsidies will have to be stopped, and the scope of social security pensions will also have to be reduced or discontinued... Do you (the state government) want to do everything solely with the help of the central government?" he said. A day earlier, mounting a strong all-party appeal against the scrapping of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG), the Himachal Pradesh government said it would challenge the decision both politically and legally, warning that the move threatens the state's financial backbone and can be resolved only through political intervention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sukhu, who also holds the Finance portfolio, the state government made a detailed presentation on Himachal Pradesh's financial position before MLAs, senior officers and the media. The opposition BJP, however, skipped the presentation, a move the government described as "unfortunate" amid a deepening fiscal crisis. Addressing the gathering, CM Sukhu said the 16th Finance Commission's decision not to recommend RDG has pushed the hill state into a serious financial emergency. "Himachal Pradesh is a geographically difficult hill state. A large administrative and service structure is unavoidable to deliver basic facilities to people living in remote and sparsely populated areas," he said. Despite having a population of only about 70 lakh, the Chief Minister said the state faces heavy expenditure on salaries, pensions and interest payments, leading to a structural revenue deficit. "This cannot be addressed through routine fiscal measures," he said. (ANI) Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Sunday slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party for politicising the metro fare hike issue, saying that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already written to Centre, which has an equal stake in Bengaluru's 'Namma Metro', to not increase the prices. "Unnecessarily the BJP people want to make politics out of everything. The metro is run by the State and Central Govt and it is a separate corporation. CM has already written to the Government of India to not increase the fare. Now, Tejasvi Surya is saying that they are not going to increase, so let there be an official order, then we will see," the Karnataka minister told reporters here. Rao also spoke on the CM change issue, saying that the decision is upto the Congress high command, and that there is no confusion within the party. ""There is nothing. It is up to the party high command. What Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi decide is final. That is what even CM and DCM have said. That is what all the party people have said," Rao said. Rao's comments come a day after Bharatiya Janata Party MP Tejasvi Surya blamed the Congress party for misrepresenting the fare hike issue, saying that it was the state government which had originally asked for the hike. Surya claimed that the state is in a 'weak financial position' after years 'shadow cash support' "Karnataka government officials demanded an upward revision of fares due to the state government's financial position. They also requested that we initiate an automatic annual fare revision process... Because the state is in a weak financial position today, it cannot continue providing the shadow cash support it had been providing for years," the BJP leader said. He further said that in 2025, a 105 per cent fare increase was initiated, and this time, the now rolled back order would have increased fares by 5 per cent, making tickets around Rs 1 to Rs 5 cheaper. To not make public transport "prohibitively expensive", Surya demanded the state government initiate a fare rationalisation process. "The purpose of public transport will be undermined if metro travel becomes prohibitively expensive. We are once again demanding that the state government initiate the process for periodic fare revisions, as the law mandates. We are asking the state government to initiate this process and rationalise fares so that metro users are not further harassed," he told reporters. Earlier on Sunday, the Namma Metro, officially known as the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced that the February 5 proposed fare hike has been kept on hold. "Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited hereby informs that the media release dated 5 February 2025, announced the implementation of the Annual Fare Revision with effect from 9 February 2026, has been kept on hold till further orders," read an official statement from the BMRCL. "The decision on the revised fare will be communicated after the board's review," the statement added. BMRCL is a joint venture of Government of India, and Government of Karnataka. A 'Special Purpose Vehicle' (SPV), it is entrused with the responsibility of implementation and operation of Bangalore Metro Rail Project. Bengaluru has over 97 kilometres of metro rail currently in operation, with two lines connecting the length and breadth of the city, and a third one set to be operational in the future. (ANI) Bomb threat emails were received at nine schools across the national capital on Monday morning, as per the Delhi Police. >Representative Image (File Photo/ANI) According to the police, the threats were received through emails between 8:30 am and 9:00 am. Following the alerts, Delhi Police, fire department teams, and bomb disposal squads were immediately rushed to the affected schools. In South Delhi, three schools received bomb threats. These include Air Force School on Lodhi Road, KR Mangalam School, and The Indian School in Sadiq Nagar. Other schools that received bomb threat emails include Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantt, Cambridge School in Srinivasanpuri, Venkateshwar School in Rohini, Cambridge School in New Friends Colony, CM School in Rohini, DTA School in INA, and Bal Bharati School in Rohini. Further investigation is underway. Meanwhile, on January 28, bomb threat emails were received at 30 schools across the Union Territory of Chandigarh, prompting a swift security response by the police and emergency services, officials said. According to Chandigarh Police, the threat emails were sent to 22 private schools and eight government schools. Immediately upon receipt of the information, Anti-Sabotage Teams, Bomb Disposal Squads, local police units, along with the Fire Brigade, Ambulance, and PCR teams, were immediately rushed to the concerned schools, and a thorough check of the concerned school premises was carried out. After a detailed inspection, no suspicious or explosive material was found, a statement read. "As a precautionary measure, regular deployment of police force will be ensured in and around schools from January 29, 2026 onwards to avoid any untoward incident and to ensure the smooth and safe functioning of educational institutions in UT Chandigarh," the police said in an official statement. In connection with the incident, an FIR has been registered at Police Station Sector 17 under Sections 113(3), 351(4), and 62 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 66F of the Information Technology Act. (ANI) INDIA bloc parties will participate in the discussion on the Union Budget to be held in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on Monday. The decision was taken during a meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders held at the office of Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present at the meeting. The Opposition alliance is expected to raise key Budget-related issues during discussions in both Houses of Parliament. The Budget Session has seen disruptions in recent days, with Opposition parties pressing for debates on various matters. Meanwhile, before arriving in Parliament, responding to questions about whether parliamentary proceedings would proceed, Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Who says the House will not function today?" Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 at 11 AM on Monday. While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States. Earlier today, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US. Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal. On Friday, the Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted by strong protests from Opposition MPs upon the commencement of the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27, leading to an adjournment until 11 AM on Monday (February 9). Opposition MPs also protested the India-US trade agreement at the Makar Dwar of the Parliament, holding a banner calling it a "trap deal." Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined as the MPs raised slogans, "Jo uchit samjho vahi karo"(Do whatever you think is right) and "tanashahi nahi chalegi" (dictatorship will not be accepted), criticising the Central government. The slogan came after Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in the Rajya Sabha, and said, "Jo uchit samjho wahi karo." Earlier, eight opposition members were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the budget session for violating rules and "throwing papers on the chair" following an uproar in the House over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's insistence on mentioning a specific reference to the 2020 border tensions with China in eastern Ladakh. The government has said that Rahul Gandhi cannot quote from an unpublished memoir or a magazine article based on it. The suspended MPs include Congress members Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and Dean Kuriakose, along with CPI (M) MP S Venkatesan. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday urged the Opposition not to disrupt House proceedings during the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly. Addressing mediapersons ahead of the Assembly sitting, CM Adityanath said that the State government will present an economic survey to showcase the state's achievements in the journey of becoming "a breakthrough state in the Indian economy" The Chief Minister said, "The legislature is indeed an important pillar of democracy. It functions through dialogue, not by disrupting proceedings. If any member wants to raise an issue, disrupting the proceedings is, in a way, an attempt to dilute the very issues they want to draw attention to." "After the Governor's address today, when the address is laid on the table of the House, the economic survey of Uttar Pradesh will also be presented in the House immediately. This is the first time any state government will present its economic achievements. We would like to note that we have moved Uttar Pradesh out of its BIMARU (backwards) state and established it as a breakthrough in the Indian economy. "All public representatives and the people of Uttar Pradesh have the right to know about these factors and the journey of Uttar Pradesh's economic progress. The economic survey report covering all these aspects will also be presented in the House today, and I believe that this report will be an important document for all members during the discussion on the Governor's address and also during the budget discussion, for presenting and discussing their data," he said. The Chief Minister informed that the Budget will be presented on February 11. "The Budget Session is going to start today. There are two major agendas in the Budget Session. First, the address of the Governor and second, the presentation of the General Budget. The General Budget 2026-27 will be presented on 11th February, and there will be discussions on the same. The session will run till February 20," he said. UP Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana said both the ruling and the opposition sides will have equal opportunity to raise their concerns in the House. "As the session begins, I believe matters related to public welfare will be taken up. Both sides will have equal opportunity to raise their concerns in the House. The opposition can present their concerns, and the government will respond to them," the Assembly Speaker said. The session, scheduled from February 9 to 20, marks the first legislative meeting of the year in the state. (ANI) Donald Trump is said to be preparing a sensational alien disclosure speech that could expose decades of secrecy surrounding UFOs. Mark Christopher Lee claims Donald Trump is preparing an alien disclosure speech British filmmaker and UFO researcher Mark Christopher Lee says intelligence from a source connected to the Trump administration indicates the US president has drafted a historic address scheduled for July 8, 2026, which is expected to confirm the existence of non-human craft, recovered biological material, the Roswell incident, the US Navys Tic Tac encounter and a long-running government cover-up. The claim coincides with the release of Lees new book, The Cosmic Joker: Why Angels, Aliens, and Demons Are All the Same Intelligence, which argues that angels, demons, fairies, jinn and modern aliens are all manifestations of the same shape-shifting intelligence. Lee said: Weve been played by the same intelligence since the dawn of civilisation. It doesnt come as just one thing it adapts to our culture. In ancient times it was angels and spirits. Today, it wears the mask of aliens. Disclosure is coming. But if people think this is simply about visitors from another planet, theyll completely miss the deeper truth behind the phenomenon. Lee warned that confirmation of non-human intelligence would come with serious consequences. He said: This force can appear comforting or terrifying. If Trump confirms whats been hidden for decades, humanity needs to understand the trickster nature of what were dealing with otherwise we risk being deceived all over again. Neither Donald Trump nor US officials have confirmed plans for a disclosure speech. At the heart of the book is a disturbing childhood experience Lee says changed his life. He claims that when he was four years old, a womans head emerged from his bedroom wall through a portal of blue light and spoke to him telepathically. He said: She told me, Everything will be alright. That moment stayed with me and gave me the strength to survive what followed. I now believe that encounter was with the same intelligence people describe today as aliens. The budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly began on Monday with Governor Anandiben Patel delivering her address amid sloganeering by the Opposition MLAs. In her speech, the Governor said that six crore people had been lifted out of poverty in the state. The Governor said, "Six crore people have been alleviated from poverty in the state..." "Over 65 crore people attended the 2025 Maha Kumbh and over 21 crore have attended the Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj," she further said. Before the session, Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Ravidas Mehrotra criticised the Uttar Pradesh government, saying the Governor should deliver her own speech rather than repeat government claims, warning that the party would oppose it if she did not. He also claimed that the state government had failed on all fronts and noted that although a budget of Rs 9 lakh crore was being presented, less than 40 per cent of the previous budget had been spent. Speaking to ANI, Mehrotra said, "The Governor will address the House in today's session. We urge the Governor to deliver her own speech and not merely repeat the propaganda and lies of the government. If that happens, we will oppose the speech. This government has failed on all fronts. The state government is going to present a budget of Rs 9 lakh crore, but it has not even spent 40% of the last budget yet." Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya urged the opposition to raise issues constructively. "If the opposition has any issue, they should definitely raise it and behave constructively. If they behave negatively, they will feel that they are playing the role of the opposition. And if they behave negatively, we will pray to God to give them good sense. The budget will be presented on the 11th," he said. The Budget Session is scheduled to run from February 9 to February 20, with the state budget for the 2026-27 financial year to be presented on February 11. (ANI) Communist Party of India (Marxist) Lok Sabha MP Amra Ram on Monday said that if Veer Savarkar is conferred the Bharat Ratna, the award itself will lose its value as it would be given to the person who "tried to create in the country". "Nothing could be more humiliating than this... If Bharat Ratna will be awarded to those who tried to create a divide in the country, the award will lose its value," the CPM MP told ANI. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP, Madan Rathore, told ANI that some people are opposing the idea because of "not reading complete history", and highlighted that Savarkar has "suffered a great deal" and had continued to fight for the country without losing hope. "Veer Savarkar was a great patriot... He was sentenced to Kala Pani (Cellular Jail) and received many other punishments as well. He suffered a great deal... yet he did not lose hope and continued to fight. Such a great man deserves the Bharat Ratna. Some people oppose this because they haven't read the complete history," Rathore told ANI. The comments come a day after Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said that if the country's highest civilian honour is given to Savarkar, the award's prestige itself will be increased. While speaking at the Two-Day Lecture Series On '100 Years Of Sangh Journey - New Horizons' here on Sunday, Bhagwat said that he was not on the decision-making committee but would raise the issue if given the chance. "I'm not on that committee, but if I meet someone who is, I'll ask them. If Swatantra Veer Savarkar is given Bharat Ratna, the prestige of Bharat Ratna will increase. Even without that prestige, he has become the emperor of millions of hearts," he said. The grandson of Savarkar, Rajendra Savarkar, has called for the Central government to recognise the title of 'Swatantraveer' for his grandfather, saying that it would be akin to the title of 'Mahatma' given to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. (ANI) On the first day of the UP Assembly budget session in Lucknow, Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders held a protest against the state government over several issues. Samajwadi Party MLC Ashutosh Sinha stated that the party intends to "corner the government" regarding the continuous demolition of temples in Varanasi, vowing to fight the issue from the streets to the assembly. Speaking to ANI, Ashutosh Sinha said, "Ever since the BJP government came to power in Uttar Pradesh, they have been constantly working to demolish temples. Before or after India's independence, no one has demolished as many temples as the Uttar Pradesh government is doing now. We are residents of Varanasi. We are seeing how our faith is being toyed with. Therefore, on this issue, we will work to corner the government from the streets to the assembly." Speaking about government claims that the video is AI-generated and that the opposition is spreading confusion, for which an FIR has been filed, he said the government is scared and has worked to stop us. "The government is scared. When we wanted to go and see for ourselves whether it was AI or if the government's claims were baseless, the government worked to stop us. They filed cases against us. The police dragged us away. Just think about how scared the UP government is. We have fought on this matter on the streets, and we will continue to question the government in the assembly as well," said Ashutosh Sinha. He also stated that we will continue to hold the government accountable. On every issue affecting the poor, labourers, farmers, youth, weavers, the unemployed, lawyers, teachers, and Shiksha Mitras, we will challenge the government. Samajwadi Party MLA Ravidas Mehrotra, during the protest, speaking to ANI, said, "The budget session is starting from today. The government's budget has already been leaked; they are presenting a budget of more than 9 lakh crore rupees. However, of the budget they presented last year, not even 40% has been spent yet. This government has failed on all fronts." "A 'Jungle Raj' (lawlessness) run by goons and mafias has been established in the state. Even the Shankaracharyas are speaking out against this government. The Chief Minister no longer has any moral right to remain in power even for a single day," Ravidas added. (ANI) Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat on Monday hit out at the Central government for "suppressing the voice of Opposition." He claimed that it is a sad state of affairs with how things are being "imposed" in the House, which is why the Opposition MPs are bringing in a no-confidence motion. "The throne belongs to the Constitution, not to the ruling party in government. The way things are being imposed out of prejudice, with the opposition's voice being suppressed, is very saddening," Bhagat told ANI outside Parliament. Congress MPs have signed a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, sources said on Monday. The motion has the support of the Samajwadi Party and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has not yet declared its position. Congress' floor managers are in talks with other parties. Sources added that the party has clarified that it has enough MPs to submit a no-confidence motion notice. Even if one or two parties do not support it, Congress intends to move the motion within the constitutional timeframe. The Opposition MPs are planning to move a no confidence motion against Speaker in the second half of the budget session. Earlier today, the Lower house of the parliament was adjourned till tomorrow after it reconvened its session at 2 pm following two adjournments since it commenced Monday's session at 11 am. Opposition MPs continued to demand a discussion on the India-US interim trade framework. and the Lower House of Parliament was adjourned till February 10. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi claimed that he was given a personal assurance that he would be allowed to raise certain points on the floor before discussion on the budget starts, but the Lok Sabha Chair was "going back on their word". However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed the claims by Gandhi, saying that no assurance was given during the meeting held between Speaker Om Birla and Congress MP K C Venugopal, which he also attended. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended birthday wishes to Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, highlighting his consistent work in the state's development, and realising the dreams of Balasaheb Thackeray, and Anand Dhige. "Birthday wishes to Shri Eknath Shinde Ji. He is working tirelessly towards furthering Maharashtra's development and realising the dreams of Pujya Balasaheb Thackeray and Dharamveer Anand Dighe. Praying for his long life and good health," PM Modi wrote on X. Earlier today, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also wished his deputy. "Heartiest birthday greetings to Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde ji! Wishing you a long life and good health!", he wrote on X. On the occasion of Shinde's birthday, Deputy Chairperson of Maharashtra Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe organised a cloth donation drive for new mothers and children at J.J. Hospital. "The birthday of Maharashtra's beloved Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena President, Eknath Shinde, is not merely a political event but an occasion that embodies humanity and social responsibility. In this spirit, taking advantage of the occasion of his birthday, a heartwarming cloth donation initiative for new mothers and newborn infants was held at Mumbai's Sir J.J. Hospital," Gorhe posted on X. During this initiative, Gorhe took stock of the hospital's facilities and amenities. She stated that positive follow-up will be undertaken at the government level on all proposals submitted by the J.J. administration, and a meeting will be held in the upcoming session under the guidance of Shinde. Additionally, Gorhe herself will make special efforts for the renovation of the hospital's wards. Eknath Shinde was born on February 9, 1964. Starting his political career in the 1980's he met Shiv Sena leader Dharamveer Anand Dighe, who mentored the young SHinde and introduced him to the party's grassroots work in Thane. Shinde's first political position was in Thane Municipal Corporation as a Corporator, being the leader of the House from 1997-2002. Between 2004-2019, he was elected in the Maharashtra Assembly, serving four consecutive terms. From 2019-2022, he assumed charge as a cabinet minister in the government, with Public Health, Urban Development Public Works portfolios being assigned to him, and also being the acting home minister for the state for a month in 2019. Between 2022 and 2024 Shinde served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. After a Mahayuti victory in the recent Assembly polls, Shinde became the Deputy Chief Minister under the leader of Devendra Fadnavis. (ANI) Karnataka Minister for Electronics Priyank Kharge on Monday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over multiple issues, including restrictions on parliamentary debate, metro fare policies in Bengaluru, and the historical legacy of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, raising concerns over governance, accountability and transparency. Speaking to ANI, Karnataka Minister Kharge said, "...Whenever Rahul Gandhi uses the word 'Prime Minister' in Parliament, he is stopped. Is 'Prime Minister' considered an unparliamentary word? We also heard the Speaker saying that women MPs might attack the Prime Minister. What intelligence does the Speaker of the House have that the Home Minister, Amit Shah, does not?" On BJP MP Tejasvi Surya's remarks about the metro fare hike in Bengaluru, Kharge alleged, "...They stage dramas to fool the people. There is a central committee that decides on fare hikes. When even an inch of metro line is laid, the credit goes to PM Modi, but when fares are increased by one rupee, the blame comes to the state government." Further commenting on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement, Kharge questioned the government's rationale behind awarding the Bharat Ratna to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. "...The government is free to award the Bharat Ratna to anyone, but they must also answer certain questions. Why did Savarkar accept a pension from the British government? Why did he not participate in the freedom struggle? And why did he write mercy petitions to the British government?... Let them answer all these questions first..." he said. Earlier, Priyank Kharge also criticised the India-USA trade deal by drawing a comparison with the Goods and Services Tax (GST). He noted that while Washington has reduced tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent. Speaking to reporters, Kharge dismissed the trade deal as a "GST Bachao Utsav," alleging a severe trade imbalance. He claimed the agreement allows a 0 per cent tariff on American goods entering India, compared to an 18 per cent tariff on Indian goods entering the US. "The govt of India has become a madhouse. It is nothing but the GST Bachao Utsav, which the government celebrated so much. First, you implement high GSTs, then you reduce it after 8 years, then you celebrate the reduction. Similarly, the US tariff has been reduced to 18%, so you are celebrating a reduction while there is zero tariff on US goods...I don't know what the Government of India is celebrating. I don't see sense in this," said Kharge. (ANI) Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) strongly condemned the vindictive attitude of the coalition government, alleging it is piling numerous cases against political adversaries to keep them jailed for as long as possible. Speaking to the media on Monday, party spokesperson Putaa Siva Sankar said the coalition government has been reopening old cases and filing false complaints across multiple locations. "Though the Central labs had clearly pointed out that there is no animal fat in the ghee used for Tirupati laddu, Chandrababu has been trying to drag God into political controversy and file cases against Ambati Rambabu, Jogi Ramesh and others, as he is unable to digest the fact that they were exposing wrong points of the coalition government," he said. An old case of resentment against medical colleges has been reopened against Ambati Rambabu, an act of vindictiveness, he said, adding that more than 36 cases have been filed against him. Chandrababu's lies about the Tirupati laddu were exposed, and TDP has unleashed attacks on YSRCP leaders. The coalition has been filing cases against the victims and putting them in jails, which has become the trend of the government. The perpetrators of violence have been let off while the victims are being jailed and are being shifted from one place to another, he said, adding that it isa sheer violation of Human Rights and fundamental rights. (ANI) Ahead of MP board examinations, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav interacted with students as part of "Pariksha Par Samvad - 2026" programme held at Government Subhash Higher Secondary Excellence School in Bhopal on Monday and guided the students for preparation. He urged students taking exams to prepare diligently without stress and to move forward with determination rather than fear. Addressing the occasion, CM Yadav said, "Today's students are the future of the country. They will be the ones to lead the country in the coming time, so all students should continuously improve their skills, knowledge, and performance to refine themselves. Prepare for the exams with complete hard work and dedication, and do not take any stress." The Chief Minister further said, "Examinations are only a phase in our lives, not the ultimate destination. Hard work should be a habit, but don't let stress dominate you. Self-confidence, discipline, and a balanced routine are the ultimate keys to success for students during exam time. Always maintain faith in yourself, move forward with determination, not fear, and fulfill all your dreams." He appealed to all students to stay away from stress during exams, work hard continuously, and score as well as possible. He also advised students on time management, regular practice, and maintaining self-belief in all circumstances. The Chief Minister said that learning from failure and moving forward is the mark of a strong personality, rather than being afraid of it, adding that the state government is making every possible effort to strengthen the education system. He added that all students should get proper sleep during exam time. Set a study schedule. Develop the habit of reflecting on a subject after studying it. Mere literacy is not enough. Students should discuss course topics with their friends and teachers. On the other hand, School Education and Transport Minister, Uday Pratap Singh said that examinations present a challenge every year and students should focus on their preparations through proper time management, without letting stress overpower them. CM Yadav regularly interacts with students, understands their difficulties and makes every possible effort to address them. According to Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE), the board exams for Class 12th will begin from February 10 and continue till March 7 while the board examinations for Class 10th will begin from February 13 and conclude on March 6. All the examinations will be conducted in one shift from 9 am to 12 noon. (ANI) A 24-year-old woman, wife of head constable Shailendra Jadon, who resides at the Police Training College (PTC) campus in Indore, ended her life by hanging herself at her residence on Monday morning, a police officer said. Head constable Jadon is posted at the PTC, where he provides yoga training to newly recruits. He had gone out for his routine training session, and upon returning home, found his wife hanging. Speaking to ANI, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP, Zone 1), Krishna Lalchandani said, "A woman Sneha Jadon (24), wife of a head constable Shailendra Jadon, who lives at the Police Training College (PTC) campus in Indore, ended her life by hanging herself. Shailendra Jadon is posted at PTC and provides yoga training to newly recruited police constables. He went to take yoga classes on Monday morning, returned at around 9:15 am and found that her wife had hanged herself in the room." They had a four-year-old boy and tied the knot in 2019. The police are conducting an investigation to ascertain the reason for the incident and no suicide note was recovered from the spot, the officer said. DCP Lalchandani further said that the police informed the family members of the woman, who reside in Bihar about the incident and they would reach here by tomorrow. Upon their arrival, statements will be recovered and more things would be known thereafter. An investigation into the matter is underway, he added. (ANI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday said that it was the State government that took the decision to withhold the proposed metro fare hike, adding that the Centre had no role in it. Addressing a press conference in Vidhana Soudha, the Deputy CM, who also holds the Bengaluru Development portfolio, said, "There is no politics in this. The Centre doesn't have any rights to direct us or interfere in this. The letter sent by the Centre doesn't carry any weight. I have asked officials to revisit the fare hike by reworking the numbers." "I was under the impression that they would call for a meeting in Delhi about the metro fare hike. I was also eagerly waiting for their decision. There is more politics in this than reality. The meeting in Delhi has been postponed. Those who are declaring victory should have ensured a meeting and a final decision on this," he said. On the question of whether the State government asked the fare fixation committee for a hike in the fares, he said, "The Centre may have written a letter to withhold the fare hike, but there is no provision to do so in the law. Let them specify under which rule they have sent a letter to hold back the fare hike. The Fare fixation committee must be formed newly if a decision needs to be taken. I am working to become the voice of the people." "As per my experience and my interactions with experts, the Centre doesn't have any right to instruct or recommend fares until a new fare fixation committee is formed. The new committee, once formed, will issue directions on fares. Not that those who wrote the letter don't know this. The local MPs are talking about it. The state government hasn't asked for any fare hike. The fare was hiked as per the decision taken by the previous fare fixation committee," he explained. Reacting to statements by BJP leaders crediting themselves for the rollback of the fare hike, he said, "Let anyone take the credit. My fight is for the people and not for credit. Any decision should not be a burden on neither the people nor the metro. I am not working under any pressure. Both the people and the BMRCL have to do well." "No one has spoken to us about the fare hike. Nothing has been discussed. Nor have we directed them to increase the fares. The decision to increase the metro fares by 5% was taken one year ago. The people who are talking about it today did not say a word when the decision was taken?," he questioned. "There are three parameters to decide on fare hike - OMR expenses, CPI, staff salaries, unit costs and energy costs. I have instructed the officials to rework their costs and revenues and come back. I have instructed them to withhold the fare hike until then," he added. "There have been comparisons between the metro fares of Bengaluru with other cities, but they are not comparable. For example, the security operations in the Delhi metro are being handled by the Centre. While we handle the security in Bengaluru, we are paying GST for that as well. The State government has given Rs 1064.32 crore for the repayment of 'cash loss'. We have also given Rs 4,002.23 crore to the Centre towards loan repayment. On the whole, we have given Rs 5,066.55 crore," he explained. Regarding the timeline for withholding the fare hike, he said, "There is a process, can't put a timeline to it." On claims that only the Bengaluru Metro was being politicised, he said, "There are only 'trunks', mics and voices here. Has anyone spoken about fare hikes in Delhi or Hyderabad? No one has spoken about it. One MP has been talking, and you have been publishing his photos." On Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka's demand to the state government to write a letter to the Centre stating that it doesn't have any role in the fare hike, he said, "He can say whatever he wants before the media. If he speaks to me about it, I will respond." On whether he would seek the formation of a new fare fixation committee, he said, "We are not going to get into that now. Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar will do what is possible currently. This is our land, and we will do whatever needs to be done to help our customers." Regarding whether people can be hopeful of a fare reduction by 5%, he said, "We have instructed officials to rework the numbers. All organisations have to take into account the variations in costs and revnue and similarly, BMRCL also has to take these into account." Clarifying whether the fare hike falls under the jurisdiction of the State government or the Centre, he said, "It doesn't come under anyone, it comes under the fare fixation committee. Representatives of the state government used to be in that committee, not now." When asked if the fares would be revised as per the old committee, he said, "We don't have powers to do that. Neither the Centre, state nor BMRCL has the power to fix fares until a new fare fixation committee comes into being." (ANI) Bridge over Yangtze River sets new standards for ecological protection People's Daily Online) 09:52, February 09, 2026 Photo shows an enclosed noise barrier under construction on the Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge in central China's Hubei Province. (Photo/Changjiang Daily) The Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge, linking Wuhan and Ezhou in central China's Hubei Province, recently passed its acceptance inspection. From design to construction, the project prioritized protecting the Yangtze River's environment and biodiversity. As Wuhan's 12th Yangtze River bridge, it spans 35 kilometers, passing through the Zhangdu Lake Wetland Nature Reserve and crossing waters frequently visited by Yangtze finless porpoises, a species under first-class national protection. The bridge sets a benchmark for both Chinese engineering and environmental protection, experts and scholars agreed at an academic conference organized by the China Highway & Transportation Society in December 2025. A 400-meter-long fully enclosed noise barrier was built for birds at the Zhangdu Lake wetland, said Peng Xiaobin, project designer and deputy chief engineer of Hubei Communications Planning and Design Institute Co., Ltd. The barrier stands 6.38 meters high and 34 meters wide, Peng said, adding that it is the first such bird noise barrier on a Yangtze River bridge. Since the Zhangdu Lake Wetland Nature Reserve lies along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, one of the world's great flyways for migratory birds, the team revised the bridge design multiple times, ultimately deciding to introduce an additional curve. This new design significantly increased construction costs and was initially rejected, Peng noted. "Our team and the developers consulted bird protection experts, obtained 10 years of data on wetland bird activity and conducted repeated site visits. Everyone agreed that ecological considerations must take priority," Peng said. Peng and his team went through eight further design iterations, with each version keeping the bridge as far away from the wetland as possible. Anticipating that traffic noise would affect wetland birds, Peng's team decided to build a fully enclosed noise barrier along the bridge deck near the migratory route. Within the barrier zone, daytime noise levels are maintained at 50 to 55 decibels and drop to 40 to 45 decibels at night, well within the comfort range for birds. A river bend where Yangtze finless porpoises frequently appear lies about 2 kilometers downstream from the main bridge. "The main bridge is a single-span steel box girder suspension bridge that required no river pilings. The approach bridges on both banks were built entirely on land, fully avoiding in-water construction," said Chen Cheng, chief engineer for the project at CCCC Second Harbor Engineering Co., Ltd. During construction, multiple measures were adopted to minimize potential impacts on Yangtze finless porpoises. According to surveys by the Institute of Hydrobiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Yangtze finless porpoise population in the Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge section has grown from five or six individuals when construction began in 2022 to about 20 today. Long drainage pipes run along both sides of the bridge deck, their ends connected to intelligent flow-monitoring devices. "The monitoring system automatically identifies the type of fluid flowing through the pipes. Rainwater with oil residue enters an oil-water separation pool for settling before discharge. Leaked fluids or contaminated wastewater enter an emergency pool for treatment by qualified hazardous waste disposal contractors," explained Fu Gang, director of the safety and environmental protection department at Hubei Communications Investment Group Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge Co., Ltd. Beyond the main bridge, 25 such deck runoff collection systems have been installed throughout sensitive areas, including the Zhangdu Lake Wetland Nature Reserve. "This system not only prevents direct runoff discharge but also addresses the technical challenge of automatically identifying and collecting contaminated runoff during hazardous chemical incidents," Fu said. "We prioritize comprehensive protection over large-scale development, seeking a balance between ecological preservation and economic growth to achieve both environmental and economic benefits," said Wang Xihua, Party secretary of Hubei Communications Investment Group Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge Co., Ltd. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Catherine O'Hara died after suffering from a pulmonary embolism. Catherine O'Hara passed away, aged 71 The actress passed away on January 30, aged 71, and her cause of death has now been revealed, with TMZ confirming that rectal cancer was listed as the underlying cause of the embolism. A rep for the movie star previously shared that Catherine passed away "after a brief illness", but further details of her health were not shared at the time. However, TMZ has now obtained a copy of her death certificate from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office. The document confirms that the actress - who starred in the Home Alone and Beetlejuice film franchises, as well as the TV series Schitt's Creek - was cremated. Catherine died at her home in Los Angeles, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney subsequently paid a glowing tribute to the actress, describing her as a "legend". The film star was born in Toronto, Canada, and the Prime Minister took to social media to pay tribute to her after she passed away. Carney wrote on X: "I join Canadians and fans across the world in mourning the loss of Catherine OHara. "Over 5 decades of work, Catherine earned her place in the canon of Canadian comedy from SCTV to Schitt's Creek. "Canada has lost a legend. My thoughts are with her family, friends, and all those who loved her work on screen. She will be dearly missed. (sic)" Prior to that, Macaulay Culkin - who starred alongside O'Hara in the Home Alone franchise - paid a heartfelt tribute to the actress. Alongside two throwback photos, the actor wrote on Instagram: "Mama. "I thought we had time. "I wanted more. "I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. "I heard you. "But I had so much more to say. "I love you. "Ill see you later. (sic)" One of the photos was taken in 2023, when the late actress supported Macaulay at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony. O'Hara - who played the actor's on-screen mom - said that day: "Home Alone was, is and always will be a beloved global sensation ... the reason families all over the world can't let a year go by without watching and loving Home Alone together is because of Macaulay Culkin." Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her victory in the elections for the renewal of Japan's House of Representatives. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, in a post on X, congratulated Takaichi on the "significant success achieved in the elections for the renewal of the House of Representatives of Japan." Highlighting the close relationship between the two countries, Meloni said, "Our Nations are united by a deep friendship and a strategic partnership that continues to grow stronger thanks to the relationship of sincere trust and constructive collaboration that we have been able to build over these years between our Governments." https://x.com/giorgiameloni/status/2020500456611385635?s=46 Recalling her January visit to Japan, Meloni said, "I always carry in my eyes and in my heart the extraordinary welcome I received during my visit in January, which further strengthened the bond between our Nations." She added that Italy would "continue with conviction to walk alongside Japan to jointly address global challenges, promote growth, security and stability," and extended her best wishes " for good work to my dear friend Sanae and to the new Japanese Parliament." Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also congratulated Takaichi in a post on X, saying, " Congratulations @takaichi_sanae on your decisive victory in Japan's general election." He added, "I'm looking forward to working with you to further elevate the strong partnership between Canada and Japan, to create more opportunities for both our peoples." https://x.com/markjcarney/status/2020576982791307769?s=46 Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. (ANI) The Maha Bodhi Society of India on Sunday hosted a special event, "Thank You Bharat" at the historic Buddha Vihara on Mandir Marg to acknowledge India's support and assistance to Sri Lanka, particularly in relief and rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India, Mahishini Colonne, said it was an honour to be present at the sacred Buddha Vihara, a place deeply associated with the ideals of Sri Anagarika Dharmapala and Mahatma Gandhi. Recalling that Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated the temple in 1939, she noted that Gandhiji had called upon people to practise love and tolerance, values that, she said, resonate even more strongly today. "Those words resonate with even greater meaning today, as we gather to express our gratitude to Bharat," Colonne said, highlighting the enduring bonds between the two countries rooted in shared history, culture and Buddhist heritage. Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, also participated in the event. In a post on X, Margherita said it was "heartening to be part of Maha Bodhi Society's 'Thank You Bharat' event in appreciation of India's relief and rehabilitation efforts in Sri Lanka post Cyclone Ditwah." He added that India's commitment to stand by Sri Lanka in times of need is driven by "strong civilisational and people-to-people bonds." https://x.com/PmargheritaBJP/status/2020484567900336552 As reconstruction efforts continue in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, the Indian army and the Indian Navy transported ten additional extra-wide bridges to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagarbandhu, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information of the Indian Army said on Friday. Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka late last year, triggered widespread flooding, landslides, and large-scale infrastructure damage, overwhelming local disaster-response mechanisms. Operation Sagarbandhu, launched in November 2025, enabled India to provide urgent Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), including restoration of roads, bridges, and essential services. By swiftly reestablishing connectivity along the B-492, the Indian Army has not only facilitated daily life for affected communities but also strengthened bilateral ties and goodwill between India and Sri Lanka. (ANI) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the Liberal Democratic Party's victory in the elections to Japan's House of Representatives. In a post on X, Zelenskyy congratulated Takaichi on what he described as an important electoral win. "This is an important victory and an excellent result. Today, we all need strong leadership so that the world can return to stability and predictability - and, ultimately, to peace," he said. https://x.com/zelenskyyua/status/2020569801408610412?s=46 Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for Japan's support to Ukraine, stating, "We value the fact that Japan is among those who provide principled support for the protection of our people, our lives, and Ukraine's independence." He added that assistance from Japan has helped save "thousands upon thousands of lives" during Russia's war against Ukraine and noted Japan's participation in the Coalition of the Willing and its support in restoring Ukraine's energy sector. "We hope that together we can deliver even more results in the interests of our peoples," he said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended his congratulations in a post on X, saying, "Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your election win." Highlighting the close relationship between the two countries, Albanese said, "Australia and Japan's friendship has never been closer. I look forward to strengthening it and deepening ties between our countries." https://x.com/albomp/status/2020592180507943306?s=46 Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. (ANI) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday extended congratulatory wishes to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her historic win in the snap elections. He hailed the momentum of ties between the two countries and expressed optimism on deepening them further. In a post on X he said, "Congratulations @takaichi_sanae on your election win. Australia and Japan's friendship has never been closer. I look forward to strengthening it and deepening ties between our countries. " https://x.com/AlboMP/status/2020592180507943306?s=20 Wishes poured in from across the world on Takaichi's win. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended warm congratulations to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi following her ruling coalition's projected historic victory in snap elections for Japan's lower house, the House of Representatives, emphasising that India-Japan ties remain vital for advancing global peace, stability, and shared prosperity through their robust Special Strategic and Global Partnership. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Takaichi on her projected landmark electoral win and reaffirmed the importance of the partnership that established eight all-nation lines of effort for the next decade. Earlier, US President Donald Trump on Sunday (local time) congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her coalition on what he described as a "landslide victory" in Japan's general election, calling the outcome historic and praising her leadership. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "Congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Coalition on a LANDSLIDE Victory in today's very important Vote." He described Takaichi as "a highly respected and very popular Leader" and said her decision to call an election had "paid off big time." Trump noted that Takaichi's party now commands a two-thirds supermajority in the legislature, terming it "a HISTORIC TWO THIRDS SUPERMAJORITY -- the first time since World War II." He added, "It was my Honor to Endorse you and your Coalition. I wish you Great Success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda." Commending Japanese voters, Trump said the "wonderful people of Japan" had voted with enthusiasm and would "always have my strong support." Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives in Sunday's general election, handing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a decisive mandate to advance her conservative policy agenda, Kyodo News reported. Crossing the two-thirds threshold of 310 seats in the 465-member lower house allows the LDP to pursue constitutional revision and pass legislation even if it is rejected by the upper House of Councillors, where the ruling coalition remains in a minority. The LDP is the first party in postwar Japan to achieve such a margin, according to Kyodo News. The Japan Times reported that the outcome was reminiscent of a 2012 election, when the LDP -- after a 2009 poll in which it lost power -- regained its control of the Lower House by winning 294 seats. According to the Japan Times, that victory served as the launchpad of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's almost eight-year rule over Japan. The landslide result marks a sharp increase from the party's pre-election strength of 198 seats and was widely attributed to Takaichi's personal popularity. The LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), will together command a dominant presence in the chamber, reinforcing Takaichi's position after she took office in October. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called upon Seychelles President Patrick Herminie and appreciated the President's support to vision MAHASAGAR. In a post on X, he said that the President would meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day and expressed confidence for the engagements to open up new avenues for cooperation between New Delhi and Victoria. "Delighted to call on President Dr. Patrick Herminie of the Republic of Seychelles today in Delhi. As maritime neighbours, value his support towards advancing #VisionMAHASAGAR for economic prosperity and security in the region. Confident that his engagements with PM @narendramodi later today will open new vistas for our cooperation", he said. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2020732014538940635?s=20 President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. His visit, which will continue until February 10, is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. According to a post on X by the Ministry of External Affairs, during his engagements in Chennai and Mumbai, Herminie met key stakeholders across sectors, including governance, industry, coastal management, and health, to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. MEA underscored Seychelles' strategic importance to India, describing the island nation as a key maritime neighbour and a key partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to cooperation with the Global South. "Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India and an important partner in India's Vision MAHASAGAR and its commitment to the Global South," the post added. During his stay in New Delhi, President Herminie is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties as well as exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. In Chennai, Herminie, along with Seychelles Minister of Health Marvin Nolan Fanny, met with Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in the island nation through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-speciality medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the Seychelles President met with Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and held discussions at the India-Seychelles Business Roundtable to explore investment and cooperation opportunities. The engagement in Mumbai aimed at strengthening ties with India and Seychelles, with a focus on maritime trade, the blue economy, and sustainable development. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. He made the announcement during the joint press meet with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie here in the national capital. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. He underlined that the package would create new employement and skill-training opportunties for the people and especially youth of Seychelles. PM Modi said that the visit by the President comes at an opportune time with India and Seychelles celebrating 50 years of their diplomatic ties. "I am confident that these milestones will inspire us to keep attaining new heights." He said, "India and Seychelles are not just connected through diplomacy; we are connected through the Indian Ocean. Trade between the two countries has grown, cultures have blended, and our relationship has become stronger. India and Seychelles are connected not just by geography, but by history, trust and shared vision for the future". "The greatest strength of India-Seychelles relations is our people-to-people ties. The Indian community settled in Seychelles has made a remarkable contribution to the social and economic life of Seychelles. At the same time, they have also strengthened our friendship from generation to generation," the PM added. PM Modi further underlined how as a trustworthy partner and maritime neighbour, "Seychelles is an integral part of India's MAHASAGAR vision. Our cooperation spans across land, water and sea." Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie had earlier paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. (ANI) Sikyong Penpa Tsering met US Senator Jeff Merkley on February 5 as part of his official advocacy programme in Washington, DC. Merkley a long-time and consistent supporter of the Tibetan cause and the original sponsor of the bipartisan Resolve Tibet Act of 2024, according to a report by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). The next day, Sikyong met with the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, bringing his official visit to the United States to a close. During the visit, Sikyong carried out a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening international awareness and backing for the Tibetan cause. He held in-depth discussions with leading think tanks on the increasing challenge posed by disinformation spread by the People's Republic of China. He also took part in the International Religious Freedom Conference and a fireside chat at the Atlantic Council, both key platforms where he shared perspectives on Tibetan democracy, succession, and religious freedom, CTA reported. Throughout the official visit, Sikyong, accompanied by Representative Namgyal Choedup of the Office of Tibet, Washington, DC and President Tencho Gyatso of the International Campaign for Tibet, met long-standing supporters of the Tibetan cause from across the political spectrum and urged continued legislative and advocacy efforts in support of Tibet. He also engaged with younger members of the US Congress, stressing the need to maintain strong, bipartisan support for Tibet in the coming years, as cited by the CTA report. Following the conclusion of his official engagements in Washington, DC, Sikyong left for Geneva on February 7 to attend the Geneva Forum 2026, the CTA report stated. Earlier, the Australian All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet met on February 5 to discuss and outline action plans concerning Tibet, on the sidelines of the ongoing Autumn session of parliament, according to a report by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). The Tibet issue focuses on the Tibetan people's struggle to protect their cultural, religious and political identity after China's control of Tibet since 1950. The Central Tibetan Administration continues to press for genuine autonomy, the safeguarding of human rights, religious freedom, and the right of Tibetans to peacefully decide their future. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave and called defence and maritime cooperation are important pillars of the relationship. He further noted that India and Seychelles would expand cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, resilience, climate adaptive solutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the remarks during the joint press meet with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie here in the national capital on Monday. PM Modi said that as maritime neighbours, the blue economy is a natural area of cooperation between the two countries and that India will share its expertise in marine research and capacity building with Seychelles. "In the areas of marine research, capacity building, data sharing- India will share its expertise with Seychelles. Defence cooperation and maritime security are important pillars of our cooperation." He welcomed Seychelles as a full member of Colombo Security Conclave. "This will strengthen our efforts for peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and deepen our ties. Together we will shape not just bilateral cooperation but a shared future for the Indian Ocean." He added, "We will expand our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, resilience, climate adaptive solutions." Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the various MoUs and documents being signed between India and Seychelles to further deepen collaboration between the two maritime neighbours. He also announced that the India-Seychelles Joint vision would be launched today which would become a roadmap for cooperation. "A digital transformation is taking place. Under this, we will share India's successful experience with Seychelles. We will move forward together with Seychelles in ensuring the supply of affordable and quality medicines, promoting medical tourism, and developing health infrastructure", he said. He hailed how the Indian community settled in Seychelles has made remarkable contributiond to the social and economic life of Seychelles and also strengthened our friendship from generation to generation. "Through close cooperation in the field of technology, we are giving our partnership a futuristic direction", he added. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. India and Seychelles exchanged several agreements and MoUs reflecting the multifaceted cooperation between the India and Seychelles partnership. These include Pharmacopoeial Cooperation, Cultural Exchange Programmes from 2026-2030, Cooperation in the Field of Knowledge Sharing of Successful Digital Solutions implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation and Memorandum of Understanding between National Cooperative Exports Limited and Seychelles Trading Corporation on Procurement of Food among others. Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. (ANI) Seychelles President Patrick Herminie on Monday invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Guest of Honour for the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence Day. He made the announcement during the joint press meet with PM Modi here in the national capital on Monday. He said that his visit is reflective of the longstanding friendship and mutual respect between India and Seychelles President Herminie said, "This year marks a significant milestone in our relations. In June, Seychelles and India will commemorate the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations, coinciding with Seychelles' 50th anniversary of independence, to which Mr Modi will be invited as a guest of honour. We have shared our shared vision on cooperation over the next 5 years." He said that as Indian Ocean states, maritime security and regional stability remain central to the relationship and said that they reaffirmed the shared responsibility for promoting safety, stability and lawful activity in the western Indian ocean. "Our collaboration in maritime surveillance, security and defence capacity development continues to play a vital role in countering international crime, piracy and maritime threats and safeguarding critical sea lanes". He further highlighted the support given to renewable energy, and resilience. He praised the ITEC program and noted that it has strengthened the country's institutional capabilities and human resources. "Tourism remains a cornerstone of the Seychelles economy, and India represents a growing market supported by improving air connectivity", he added. He further noted that the discussions focussed on trade, investment and opportunities for greater collaborations. "India's growing role in health diplomacy, including the sharing of medical expertise, institutional partnerships, and specialised care, has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Seychelles...We signed a Memorandum of Understanding on sharing successful digital solutions for digital transformation", the President added. During the press remarks, PM Modi welcomed Seychelles as a full-time member of the Colombo Security Conclave and called defence and maritime cooperation are important pillars of the relationship. PM Modi also announced a special economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles to support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. "Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on the priorities and needs of Seychelles. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of 175 million dollars. This package will support concrete projects in areas such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security", PM Modi said. Before the joint press meet, the leaders held a bilateral meeting. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Sharing the details of his visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi's principles continue to guide and inspire the India-Seychelles partnership. "Honouring Bapu's enduring legacy and universal ideals. President Dr. Patrick Herminie of Seychelles paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Gandhiji's enduring principles continues to guide and inspire India-Seychelles partnership." President Herminie arrived in the national capital on Sunday after completing engagements in Chennai and Mumbai as part of his ongoing State Visit to India. This is his first trip to India since assuming office in October 2025 and coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. (ANI) US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Monday lauded the growing India-US partnership and highlighted the role of the friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump for the conclusion of the framework of the India-US interim trade agreement, announced last week. During a reception hosted at the residence of the US Ambassador in the national capital, Gor said that the Trump administration at the White House "is paying attention" to India, thanking the strong ties between PM Modi and President Trump for the conclusion of the interim trade agreement. "I've been here just a little over a month, and we hit the ground running. The White House is paying attention to India. Our President is paying attention to India. And thanks to the friendship of President Trump with Prime Minister Modi, we were able to get the trade deal across eventually," Gor said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also attended the reception hosted by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the envoy's residence. This comes days after the conclusion of the India-US interim trade agreement framework last week, underscoring the two countries' shared interests and continued partnership. The United States and India announced a framework for an Interim Agreement on reciprocal, mutually beneficial trade, reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) launched by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. As part of the framework, India has agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US agricultural and food products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. On the other hand, the United States will impose a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on goods originating in India, including textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, plastic and rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal goods and certain machinery. Subject to the successful conclusion of the Interim Agreement, the US has said it will later remove reciprocal tariffs on select items, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts. Gor presented his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu during an official ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 14, formally becoming the 27th United States Ambassador to India. (ANI) Donald Trump has branded US Olympian Hunter Hess as a "real loser" after he suggested that he felt "mixed emotions" about representing his country at the Winter Games. Donald Trump has lashed out at US Olympian Hunter Hess The 27-year-old freestyle skier claimed that it was a "little hard" to be representing the US team in Milan-Cortina amid the political turmoil back at home, leading to a typically combative response from the President on social media. Hess said at a press conference: "It's a little hard. There's obviously a lot going on that I'm not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren't. "I think for me, it's more I'm representing my friends and my family back home... all the things that I believe are good about the United States. "Just because I wear the flag, it doesn't mean I represent everything that is going on in the US. I just kind of want to do it for my friends and my family for the people that support me getting here." Trump took to his Truth Social platform on Sunday (08.02.26) to state that Hess' comments had made it "hard to root for" him to be successful at the Winter Olympics. The White House chief wrote: "US Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn't represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. "If that's the case, he shouldn't have tried out for the Team, and it's too bad he's on it." Trump added: "Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" Meanwhile, Hess' team-mate Chris Lillis explained that he was "heartbroken" about the Trump administration's aggressive anti-immigration rhetoric following the deaths of protesters Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal agents in Minneapolis last month. He said: "A lot of times, athletes are hesitant to talk about political views and how we feel about things. I feel heartbroken about what's happening in the United States. "I'm pretty sure you're referencing ICE and some of the protests and things like that. I think that as a country, we need to focus on representing everybody's rights and making sure that we're treating our citizens as well as anybody, with love and respect." Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday credited US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor for the successful conclusion of the framework for the India-US interim trade agreement, praising his "support and personal leadership" in strengthening bilateral economic ties between the two countries. Speaking at a reception hosted at Ambassador Gor's residence in the national capital, the Commerce Minister said, "I must place on record that the trade deal would not have been possible but for his support and his personal leadership in the entire engagement. Thank you very much, Sergio, for all that you've done to further strengthen this bond between the US and India." Goyal also wished the US Ambassador a pleasant tenure in India, noting that the country's warmth and hospitality would make his work "great fun". "I wish you well in your assignment. I wish you have a wonderful stay in India. You will meet all the wonderful people across the country who would love to know you and work with the United States of America. Without a doubt, I can tell you that this country, with all its warm hospitality, will be great fun to work in and to travel around," he stated. Gor presented his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu during an official ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 14, formally becoming the 27th United States Ambassador to India. Earlier, during an interview with ANI, the Union Commerce Minister credited the Gor for playing a "very important role" in concluding the framework of the India-US interim trade agreement. He said he had no hesitation in recognising Gor's role in finalising and announcing the agreement, calling him a "dear friend" and a "well-wisher" of the India-US relationship. "Certainly, I have no hesitation in acknowledging that Ambassador Sergio Gor, who is a dear friend, has been a well-wisher of this relationship. He did play a very important role in concluding the conversation towards finalisation and announcement. And I would like to recognise and respect his contribution," Goyal said. The United States and India announced a framework for an Interim Agreement on reciprocal, mutually beneficial trade, reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) launched by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. As part of the framework, India has agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US agricultural and food products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. On the other hand, the United States will impose a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on goods originating in India, including textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, plastic and rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal goods and certain machinery. Subject to the successful conclusion of the Interim Agreement, the US has said it will later remove reciprocal tariffs on select items, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts. India also intends to purchase USD 500 billion of US energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next five years. (ANI) Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Monday stated that the Chabahar Port project stands as a symbol of the strong partnership between India and Iran and plays a vital role in promoting common development and regional connectivity. Speaking at a reception on the occasion of the Iranian National Day hosted by the Iranian Embassy in India, Ambassador Fathali said that relations between India and Iran are deeply rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation. He noted that the port reflects the spirit of cooperation between the two countries and contributes significantly to regional connectivity. "Relations between Iran and India are rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation and based on common culture," the envoy said. "This rich heritage is a valuable asset for expanding bilateral cooperation. The Chabahar Port project, as a symbol of the cooperation between our two countries, plays an important role in the common development and regional connectivity," he added. Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, represented India as the Chief Guest at the reception, during which he conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. "Secretary (West) Sibi George represented India as the Chief Guest at the Iranian National Day reception hosted by @Iran_in_India. He conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to bilateral ties," the MEA stated in a post on X. India proposed developing the Chabahar Port in 2003 to provide an alternative route for Indian goods to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia via road and rail connectivity under the International North-South Transport Corridor, bypassing Pakistan. The progress on the project had slowed earlier due to US sanctions on Iran linked to its suspected nuclear programme. To operationalise India's role at the port, a long-term agreement was signed between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and the Port & Maritime Organisation of Iran. The agreement replaces the initial 2016 pact covering India's role at the Shahid Beheshti terminal in Chabahar Port, which had been extended annually. In recent years, Chabahar has been utilised for key consignments, including the shipment of 20,000 tonnes of wheat assistance to Afghanistan in 2023. In 2021, the port was also used to send environmentally friendly pesticides to Iran. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday held a bilateral meeting with Minister of National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias, in the national capital, during which the two sides agreed to further strengthen defence cooperation, including the positioning of a Greek International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram. During the meeting, India and Greece also signed a Joint Declaration of Intent on strengthening bilateral defence industrial cooperation, which will serve as a starting point for developing a five-year roadmap. The two countries also exchanged the Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for 2026, outlining the scope of military engagements between their armed forces, according to a Ministry of Defence release. Speaking during the interaction, Rajnath Singh said India attaches great importance to its longstanding, time-tested partnership with Greece, which is based on shared values of peace, stability, freedom, and the rule of law. He noted that bilateral relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Greece in 2023, further cemented by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis's visit to India in February 2024. Rajnath Singh thanked the Government of Greece for its consistent support to India on issues of core national interest, including cross-border terrorism and expressed appreciation for Greece's backing of India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council and India's candidature for a non-permanent seat for the 2028-29 term, as well as Greece's strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and its solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism. "You had visited India earlier in your capacity as the Foreign Minister, in March 2022. I am happy to note that you have been interacting with our EAM regularly and share a close friendship with him. I hope that both of us will be able to build up a strong partnership in the defence domain too," Rajnath Singh said. "We look forward to hosting PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in India for the AI Impact Summit later this month. Let me also take this opportunity to thank the Government of Greece for support on issues of core interest to India, including cross-border terrorism. I thank the Govt of Greece for supporting India's permanent membership in the expanded UN Security Council and India's candidature for a non-permanent seat of the UNSC for the term 2028-29. I also thank your government for the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the solidarity extended to India in the fight against cross-border terrorism," he added. The Defence Minister also welcomed the decision to position a Greek International Liaison Officer at IFC-IOR, describing it as an important step to enhance maritime cooperation between the two ancient seafaring nations. He also expressed confidence that the defence partnership would continue to expand in line with India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and Greece's defence reforms under its 'Agenda 2030'. The two Defence Ministers discussed regional and global security issues and acknowledged the growing convergence between India and Greece on maritime security and strategic matters. Both sides reiterated that the India-Greece Strategic Partnership is anchored in mutual respect and shared democratic values. "Delighted to meet the Minister National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias in New Delhi today. India and Greece signed the Joint Declaration of Intent on Strengthening the Bilateral Defence Industrial Cooperation and exchanged the Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for the year 2026. I welcome the announcement of positioning a Greek International Liaison Officer at Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram, to enhance maritime cooperation between both sea faring nations," the defence minister said in a post on X. Earlier in the day, the Greek Defence Minister laid a wreath at the National War Memorial here and paid homage to fallen soldiers. He also inspected a tri-services guard of honour at the Manekshaw Centre, alongside Rajnath Singh. During his visit, the Hellenic delegation is scheduled to visit key defence and industrial establishments in Bengaluru and interact with defence public sector undertakings, industry representatives and start-ups. According to a press release from the Ministry of Defence, the visit reaffirms the strategic partnership between India and the Hellenic Republic and underscores both countries' commitment to deepen defence cooperation and enhance peace and stability in the region. (ANI) Prashant Pise, Additional Secretary (Emigration Policy & Welfare), led the Indian delegation to the 8th Ministerial Consultations of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD) held in Dubai from January 31 to February 1, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said. Established in 2008, the Abu Dhabi Dialogue is a regional, voluntary, and non-binding consultative mechanism comprising 11 Asian countries of labour origin and 7 destination states. It provides a platform for cooperation on contractual labour mobility, exchange of best practices, and sharing of experiences among Member States. India's active engagement in the ADD reflects the Government of India's commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration, while safeguarding the welfare and rights of Indian migrant workers, as per the statement. On the sidelines of the event, the Additional Secretary held bilateral meetings with the Undersecretary of Labour Market Development and Regulation and the Assistant Undersecretary for Communications and International Relations, Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation of the United Arab Emirates, to discuss various measures taken by the two governments to ensure the welfare of Indian migrant workers in the UAE, as per the MEA statement. The discussions also touched on labour mobility, skills development, and the use of technological solutions to strengthen labour mobility between the two countries. In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Dubai said, "Shri Prashant Pise, Additional Secretary (Emigration Policy & Welfare), MEA, led the Indian delegation to the 8th Ministerial Consultations of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue held in Dubai." https://x.com/IndembAbuDhabi/status/2018716047625322813?s=20 Meanwhile, on January 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that "India's family system formed an integral part of our tradition" and said that many countries around the world hold such family systems in "high regard". During his Mann ki Baat, PM Modi said, "India's family system is an integral part of our tradition. It is viewed with great curiosity in many countries around the world. Many countries hold such family systems in high regard." India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) established diplomatic relations in 1972. While the UAE opened its Embassy in India in 1972, the Indian Embassy in UAE was opened in 1973. (ANI) The investigative architecture behind a multiyear, multi-jurisdiction trafficking probe. WASHINGTON, DC The Ryan Wedding prosecution did not appear overnight. It surfaced in public through dramatic milestones, an unsealed indictment, a reward campaign, a Mexico City arrest, a fast transfer into U.S. custody, and a not guilty plea in federal court. But the structure underneath it is the real story. Operation GIANT SLALOM, described by Canadian and U.S. authorities as a joint effort, reflects how modern cross-border cases are assembled: slowly, collaboratively, and with an evidence model designed to survive challenges in more than one country. Authorities allege Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder, led a cocaine trafficking organization protected by Mexicos Sinaloa Cartel and tied to violence, including the killing of a U.S. federal witness in Colombia in January 2025 and additional killings connected to the drug trade. Wedding has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody as pretrial litigation begins. That posture turns attention away from headlines and toward the investigative architecture, because the strength of a case like this will hinge on how investigators stitched together records, witnesses, and logistics across jurisdictions that do not naturally share court systems. The public framework for Operation GIANT SLALOM has been summarized by Canadian authorities, including the stated cooperation with U.S. partners, in an official backgrounder published by Canadas federal police service, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police: Operation GIANT SLALOM backgrounder. How cross-border cases are built now In the 1990s, many major trafficking cases could be told as linear stories: a shipment, an interception, an undercover buy, a set of arrests. Todays large investigations tend to look less like a single narrative and more like a network diagram. The goal is rarely to prove only that drugs moved. The goal is to prove a continuing enterprise: roles, command decisions, coordination, money movement, and, when alleged, violence used to protect the business. Operation GIANT SLALOM fits that newer model. Public accounts have framed it as a multi-year collaboration beginning in 2023, with investigative steps that extended into 2024 and 2025, culminating in the January 2026 custody transfer that put Wedding in a Southern California courtroom. The arc is familiar to prosecutors and defense counsel alike: first build the map, then tighten it into evidence. The case also shows why cross-border cases are rarely built by one agency. They are built by a coalition, because each agency owns a different portion of the puzzle. Border movement data sits in one place. Financial intelligence sits in another. Domestic homicide evidence sits in local hands. A suspects travel and identity trail can run through yet another set of authorities. The value of an operation name is partly operational, but also organizational: it creates a single umbrella under which separate legal systems can coordinate without losing the thread. The first layer, intelligence that turns into proof Most large trafficking investigations begin with intelligence, not courtroom-ready evidence. A tip, a confidential source, a surveillance lead, or a seizure that suggests a larger pipeline. That early information is useful, but it is not enough to convict a defendant who will have competent counsel. For a case to mature, investigators have to convert intelligence into proof that can be authenticated, explained, and attacked in open court. That conversion typically relies on four building blocks. First, the identity layer. Who is who, and how do investigators demonstrate it. That can mean legal names, aliases, travel documents, biometrics, phone numbers, email accounts, and device linkages. In cross-border cases, the identity layer is often the most contested piece, because it is where the defense can argue that the government is blending similar people, confusing intermediaries, or attributing decisions to the wrong actor. Second, the logistics layer. How product moves. Routes, stash points, transportation methods, and the people who touch shipments at each stage. Even when authorities do not disclose operational details publicly, the case theory often depends on showing continuity. A single shipment can be explained away as an anomaly. A consistent logistics pattern is harder to dismiss. Third, the communications layer. How decisions are made. Modern conspiracies are prosecuted through communications evidence when available, because it shows intent and coordination. But communications evidence also creates litigation: authentication fights, translation disputes, and arguments about coded language. Fourth, the money layer. Where proceeds go, and how the enterprise sustains itself. Large cases often involve allegations of laundering, but even without formal laundering charges, prosecutors typically use financial proof to show scale, leadership, and benefit. When authorities allege violence as part of a trafficking enterprise, they also add a fifth building block: the intimidation layer. That includes alleged threats, enforcement actions within the organization, and, in extreme allegations, murder meant to silence witnesses or discipline perceived disloyalty. It is a powerful narrative for prosecutors, and a high-stakes battlefield for the defense, because it can raise sentencing exposure and shape detention decisions. Why the operation narrative matters, even before trial The Wedding case illustrates a reality that many readers overlook. In major prosecutions, the indictment is not the finish line. It is an opening argument. The real litigation happens afterward, as the defense tests every step investigator took to reach their conclusions. That is why the operation narrative matters. When prosecutors say a defendant was a leader, they are not just offering a label. They are committing to an evidentiary burden. Leadership implies decisions, authority, and control, and those things must be shown through admissible proof, not just through witness claims. Defense counsel will likely challenge leadership claims by showing that others made decisions, that communications are ambiguous, or that alleged acts were committed by independent actors not under the defendants direction. This is where cross-border architecture is decisive. A leadership theory often depends on connecting dots that were gathered in different places: a murder file in one jurisdiction, a seizure in another, communications obtained under one legal standard, financial records obtained under another. Each link must be legally clean enough to be used in a U.S. courtroom. The operations public face and the private mechanics underneath Operation GIANT SLALOM has been described publicly as a cooperative enforcement effort between Canadian and American authorities aimed at a transnational trafficking group tied to violence. Those public descriptions emphasize coordination and public safety. The private mechanics are more procedural and less glamorous. They usually involve recurring case conferences, intelligence exchanges, and parallel legal processes that run in the background. When agencies say they are sharing intelligence, they often mean something specific: sanitized summaries that protect sources, deconfliction so one agencys actions do not compromise anothers investigation, and a steady push to identify evidence that can be used in court rather than information that is merely interesting. In a case that includes alleged violence in Canada and Colombia, and alleged leadership based in Mexico, coordination becomes a necessity, not a public relations choice. A witness in one country can become the cornerstone of a charge in another. A seizure in one region can corroborate communications in another. Travel records can establish meetings that make alleged conspiratorial decisions plausible. This is the architecture of modern prosecutions. The Mexico factor, and why custody transfer stories diverge Weddings arrest in Mexico City and rapid appearance in a California courtroom highlight why extradition narratives often diverge. Many people use extradition as shorthand for any cross-border handover. In strict legal terms, extradition is a formal process, but there are other lawful pathways that can move a defendant quickly. When a transfer happens fast, there are usually only a few explanations. Either an extradition track was already advanced, or there was an alternative legal mechanism, or the defendant waived certain procedural steps. Each possibility creates a different set of documents, timelines, and potential legal arguments. That matters because the defense will often scrutinize how a defendant was brought into U.S. custody. Not because it automatically ends a case, it rarely does, but because it can produce motions, delay schedules, and create disputes over statements or evidence obtained during custody transitions. Judges tend to focus on fairness and legality, while prosecutors focus on reliability and continuity. The violence allegations and how they reshape a trafficking case Public reporting has described allegations tying the enterprise to multiple killings, including the January 2025 killing of a U.S. federal witness in Colombia. Allegations like these are not add-ons. They reshape everything. They reshape detention, because courts consider danger and obstruction risks more heavily. They reshape discovery because witness protection becomes central, and prosecutors may seek protective orders limiting how sensitive information is disclosed. They reshape trial strategy, because jurors tend to react more strongly to allegations of violence than to logistical evidence alone. Prosecutors will likely argue that violence shows control and intent. The defense will likely argue it is prejudicial, weakly attributed, or dependent on compromised witnesses. And they reshape international cooperation, because homicides trigger different investigative pathways than narcotics trafficking alone. The evidence sources can expand: local homicide files, forensic material, and cross-border witness movement. What the operation likely relied on, without guessing at undisclosed tactics It is tempting to fill in the blanks with cinematic assumptions. A responsible view is more restrained. Authorities have not publicly laid out every investigative tool used in this matter. Still, the architecture of a multi-year, multi-jurisdiction probe like this typically depends on a mix of tools that create overlapping corroboration. Record-based proof. Travel records, border movement, passport history, and airline data. Financial records that show flows inconsistent with lawful income. Property or asset links that tie people together. These records tend to be durable and persuasive because they can be authenticated. Device and communications proof. Phones, messaging accounts, and contact networks, when lawfully obtained. Even when content is encrypted, metadata can show patterns. The defense will test this layer hardest, because it can be complicated for jurors and rich with interpretive disputes. Human source proof. Cooperators, informants, and insiders who can explain roles and intent. This proof can be powerful, and also fragile. Courts instruct jurors to weigh incentives, and defense counsel will highlight motives, benefits, and inconsistencies. Seizure and interdiction proof. Intercepted shipments, controlled deliveries, or evidence recovered during searches. This layer grounds the narrative in physical reality. It also creates chain of custody disputes and legal challenges around warrants. In a case where prosecutors allege leadership and violence, the government usually aims to show the same story in multiple ways: records plus witnesses plus seizures, so the case does not collapse if one witness is impeached or one category of evidence is narrowed by a judge. Why the scale claims draw attention, and how they will be tested Some public reporting has repeated government claims that the alleged operation moved enormous volumes of cocaine and generated extraordinary revenue. These scale claims matter because they influence how the public perceives the case, and how the defense frames overreach. In court, scale is not proved by adjectives. It is proved through numbers tied to evidence: seizure totals, intercepted communications, shipping records, cooperating witness testimony about quantities, and financial analysis consistent with alleged volume. Scale will almost certainly be contested. Defense counsel may argue the government is aggregating activity improperly, double-counting, or attributing network activity to one person. Prosecutors will argue scale shows leadership and enterprise continuity. Judges will manage how that proof is presented and whether it remains within fair boundaries. What comes next, procedurally, and why it may take longer than people expect Wedding has pleaded not guilty, and the case now enters the grinding phase that most people never see. Discovery will arrive in waves, not all at once. In complex cases, discovery can be massive, and some materials may be produced under protective conditions. Motion practice will shape what evidence the jury sees. Suppression motions, severance motions, and fights about what is too prejudicial are common in cases involving violence allegations. Scheduling will likely move. Courts can set early trial dates, but complex multi-jurisdiction evidence often pushes the calendar. Detention posture will continue to matter. If the defense seeks bond review, it will offer conditions. The government will argue risk. The court will decide. This is why operations like GIANT SLALOM are built for court, not just for arrests. Arrests are moments. Trials are systems. A case that spans Canada, Mexico, and Colombia must be built with redundancy and legal resilience. Where professional compliance analysis fits, and why readers should care Most people will never face a prosecution like this. But the investigative architecture behind it affects ordinary cross-border life more than people realize. When authorities cooperate across borders, identity and travel patterns become easier to connect. Financial institutions respond by tightening verification. Governments respond by improving data matching. That affects legitimate travelers, entrepreneurs, and families who live internationally, because the burden of proving lawful status and coherent records rises in parallel with enforcement capability. Amicus International Consulting, which provides professional services supporting compliance-forward cross-border planning, documentation integrity, and lawful mobility strategies, has long emphasized that modern systems reward coherence and punish fragmentation, a lesson that becomes visible when a multi-year operation culminates in fast custody transfer and immediate court control, as outlined in its published analysis at Amicus International Consulting. Readers should not take that as a moral lecture. It is a practical observation. In 2026, cross-border enforcement is not only about criminals. It is also about a world where record linkage is stronger, where banking and travel systems ask more questions, and where the cost of inconsistency is higher. What to watch as the operation story turns into a trial story If you are following this matter, ignore the loudest claims and watch the procedural signals. Watch whether the court treats the case as complex, which often indicates heavy discovery and extended timelines. Watch for protective orders and sealed filings, which can signal witness safety concerns or sensitive evidence handling. Watch for how prosecutors describe leadership and intent in court filings, because that is where slogans are forced into proof. Watch for whether additional related defendants appear, because multi-defendant cases often evolve as cooperation changes. For readers tracking new reporting as it lands, a continuously updated feed that aggregates coverage can be followed here: Ryan Wedding and Operation Giant Slalom coverage. The bottom line Operation GIANT SLALOM is not just a case name attached to a former Olympians downfall narrative. It is an example of how major investigations are built in 2026: multi-year, multi-jurisdiction, evidence-layered, and designed for courtroom survivability. Weddings not guilty plea ensures the government will have to prove its story with admissible evidence, not headlines. The defense will test every cross-border link in that story, from attribution to custody transfer to witness credibility. And the court will decide what survives those tests. In that sense, the operations real work is only now entering its public phase. The architecture has been built. The question ahead is whether it holds. International media outlets have widely praised Morocco for its proactive and highly coordinated management of the February 2026 floods, emphasizing that lives could have been lost had authorities not acted swiftly and with exceptional preparedness. Reports from European and international news organizations underscored that Moroccos rapid mobilization, army deployment, early planning, and large-scale evacuations played a decisive role in avoiding casualties during one of the most severe weather events to hit northern Morocco. CNN, Le Monde, Reuters, AP, New York Times and The Guardian- to mention but a few- reported that Morocco managed to evacuate over 150,000 in a record period, offering shelter, food and medical treatment as well as care for the pregnant and the elderly far away from the flood-prone areas. Morocco succeeded in containing the impacts of the floods thanks to an anticipatory approach grounded in early forecasting, disciplined field coordination, and technically bold decisions executed at critical moments, the media highlighted. These orderly evacuations were widely described as one of the largest and most effective evacuations in the region, carried out with discipline and organizational clarity. International outlets also pointed to Moroccos effective use of early-warning systems, which enabled authorities to activate emergency plans days before the arrival of the storm. Reports detailed how the countrys civil protection units, local authorities, and the Royal Armed Forces were deployed in advance to the most vulnerable provinces, ensuring rapid intervention once water levels began rising. These measures were repeatedly praised as evidence of a well-functioning national risk-management system. Coverage from European media, including Spanish and Italian, further highlighted the efficiency of Moroccos field operations. Journalists described how rescue teams and the Royal Moroccan Army reached isolated villages using helicopters, boats, and jet skis, evacuating families trapped by rising waters and providing essential support in temporary shelters. The responsiveness of these units was noted as a key factor in limiting the human cost of the floods. In their analysis, these international outlets also drew comparisons with responses in neighboring countries experiencing similar storms at the same time. In Portugal, for instance, the Moroccan model of pre-emptive action became the subject of parliamentary debate, with lawmakers criticizing their own authorities delayed handling of the crisis. Media coverage described Moroccos approach as a point of contrast that spotlighted the weaknesses of the Portuguese response and the strengths of Moroccos emergency governance. Reports also commended Moroccos technical decision-making during the floods, particularly the controlled release of water from the Oued Makhazine Dam, which had reached critical capacity. These controlled discharges were carried out to prevent structural failure and were credited with averting more catastrophic outcomes downstream. International outlets noted that such decisions required precise timing and coordination, and they praised Moroccos authorities for managing them effectively. Moroccos foreign exchange reserves reached a historic level in 2025, rising to 443.27 billion dirhams or 49 billion USD, an 18% year-on-year increase, according to the central bank. The increase was driven mainly by the strong rebound in tourism revenues and a sustained recovery in foreign direct investment (FDI), supported by higher goods exports and steady remittances from Moroccans abroad. Travel receipts surged 20.6% to 138.1 billion dirhams, boosted by a record 19.8 million tourist arrivals, up 14% from 2024. Tourism not only recovered but exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with arrivals 53% higher than in 2019. European markets led the expansion: France rose 11%, Spain 12%, the UK 18%, Belgium 10%, Italy 21%, the Netherlands 15% and Germany 11%. Hotel overnights reached 39.8 million by November 2025, an increase of 9% nationwide. FDI inflows also strengthened sharply, rising 28% to 56.05 billion dirhams by the end of 2025. France remained the largest investor with 13.62 billion dirhams, followed by the UAE (5.49 billion), the Netherlands (3.17 billion), Spain (3.06 billion) and Germany (2.72 billion). The UK, U.S., Italy, China and Switzerland rounded out the top contributors. Goods exports grew 2.8% to 469.07 billion dirhams, supported by strong performances in phosphates and derivatives (+14.6%), aeronautics (+10%) and agriculture (+3.6%). Remittances from Moroccans abroad increased 2.6% to 122.02 billion dirhams, further bolstering reserve levels. Moroccos current account deficit remained contained at 1.8% of GDP in 2025, with forecasts keeping it below 2% through 2027. The central bank projects reserves to continue rising, reaching 448 billion dirhams by 2027, enough to cover five and a half months of imports, reinforcing the countrys medium-term macroeconomic stability. A major diplomatic shift unfolded during the weekend in the long-stalled Sahara dispute, as Algeria takes part in multilateral negotiations in Madrid after years of refusing to sit at the same table as Morocco. The move marks a watershed moment for a country that has long claimed an observer status, while keeping generous support to the Polisario separatist militias and blocking any progress towards Moroccos autonomy plan for the territory. Algeria under Tebboune has moved from acting in the backstage to assert itself as the main instigator of the conflict, taking retaliatory- though self-harming- measures against states that back Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara. As the US vows to help put an end to the conflict on the basis of the autonomy solution under Moroccan sovereignty, Algiers is increasingly wary and knows it can no longer continue to fuel the conflict and deny responsibility, as it has been doing for decades. Algiers is also concerned about potential sanctions linked to its partnerships with Iran and Russia. With Trump, the calculus has changed. The talks, held discreetly at the US Embassy in Madrid, bring together Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario, under the direct supervision of senior American envoys. Washingtons involvement reflects its growing determination to impose movement on a dossier paralyzed for decades. Massad Boulos, President Trumps representative for Africa, and Michael Waltz, US Ambassador to the United Nations, requested the confidential format, signaling Washingtons intention to maintain tight control over the process. Each delegation is led by its foreign minister, with Morocco represented by Nasser Bourita and Algeria by Ahmed Attaf, according to Spanish media. The UN Secretary-Generals envoy, Staffan de Mistura also attended the meeting, that put an end to Algerias obstinate refusal to uphold its responsibility over the conflict. This new diplomatic phase comes in the wake of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted in October 2025, which reaffirmed that a realistic, pragmatic, durable and mutually acceptable political solution must be based on Moroccos autonomy initiative. The resolution explicitly called on Algeria to engage seriously in the political process, something it had long resisted. Algerias participation represents a major reversal for a regime that spent years rejecting the Geneva-style roundtable format used in 2018 and 2019. The shift comes after intense American pressure, including a January visit to Algiers by Massad Boulos, during which US officials delivered unusually firm messages urging direct engagement. Moroccos Energy Transition Ministry maintains national petroleum product supply remains stable and controlled despite exceptional weather conditions slowing port unloading operations, though industry professionals express growing concerns about reduced deliveries, particularly to stations outside major cities. Energy Minister Leila Benali emphasized national stocks exceeding 617,000 tons provide sufficient coverage at this stage. Exceptional weather conditions disrupting port activity for several weeks have directly impacted unloading operations for energy product-carrying vessels. Logistical constraints related to sea conditions and weather hazards caused cargo processing delays without compromising overall national market supply balance, according to ministry assurances. The department mobilized all public and private actors through what it termed an anticipative and coordinated approach guaranteeing supply regularity and overcoming cargo unloading delay constraints. Ministry services closely monitor national stock evolution and awaiting vessel situations in permanent coordination with professionals. The ministry reports several vessels carrying over one million additional tons of petroleum products currently awaiting unloading once weather conditions improve, reinforcing available stock levels. Preventive measures include inventorying temporarily closed distribution installations and stations in flood-affected zonesclosures reflecting precautionary logic ensuring personal safety and environmental protection pending resumed operation conditions. Daily coordination with hydrocarbon sector actors, local authorities, and professionals operates alongside a monitoring cell tracking situation evolution. The system ensures National Energy and Mines Laboratory continuity facilitating quality control and accompanying unloading operation resumption when weather permits. However, despite reassuring official messages, several questioned professionals expressed limited confidence in actual port operation rhythms and circuit capacity to sustainably absorb delays. Sources indicate approximately 20 days have elapsed without petroleum tankers docking at concerned ports, notably Mohammedia and Jorf Lasfar. Operators estimate situations could become critical if weather continues impeding docking maneuvers and unloading operations, with kerosene crystallizing particular concerns. Service station professionals report delivered quantities reduced by half, indicating distribution tightening in certain zones with tension more marked in stations outside major cities. Miranda Kerr meditates with her children. Miranda Kerr meditates with her kids The 42-year-old model explained how she practices Vedic rounding, a technique that combines yoga poses and breathing techniques, with her brood. Miranda - who has son Flynn, 15, with her ex-husband Orlando Bloom and sons Hart, seven, Myles, six, and Pierre, two, with her current spouse Evan Spiegel - told LYMA's Power Women series: "Each of my kids, except the baby, have been taught Vedic meditation and they each have their own mantra. "It's something I've been practicing since I was 17 and it's key to my connection and devotion. "As an adult you do it for 20 minutes but for my children, my six year old does it for six minutes, seven year old seven minutes and so on." The Australian star added: "This New Year, he (Flynn) said: 'Mum, I want to meditate with you every morning at 6am and do it for 20 minutes. "On the days he does it... he's like, 'I really noticed a difference. I felt much calmer the days I did it.'" Miranda also explained that she wakes up at 5.30am every morning as she has become an "early bird" since she started dating Snapchat co-founder Spiegel. She said: "I wake up every morning between 5am and 5.30am, I'm quite an early bird. "I naturally wake up so it's been years of practice because I was naturally a night owl before I met my husband and we've been together 12 years this year. "I remember one of the first Friday nights we spent together and he's like, 'Okay, let's go to bed'. I'm like, 'It's like 8.30pm'. And he's like, 'Yeah, let's go to bed.' "Now I absolutely love it." Kerr explained that she fits looking after her children into her daily routine as she sends them to bed early before having a round of laser therapy when she retires to the bedroom. She said: "I get them into bed early and then I have time for myself. "I put relaxing music on throughout the whole house at like 5pm and dim the lights so I can naturally help my kids wind down. "I put the baby down at 5.30pm because it's getting dark. The kids and I eat at 4.30pm which is a little bit early. "And then I get into bed and put on two mats - a cell optimising mat and my web laser device mat. "I do this routine for 15 minutes with the Lyma laser. I then put on the milky mushroom mask and it really plumps the skin, it's an overnight mask." Morocco has emerged as the fastest-growing supplier of tomatoes to the German market over the past two decades, multiplying its export volumes nearly fivefold, UN data showed. Moroccan shipments to Germany jumped from 12,710 tons in 2005 to 74,890 tons in 2024, an exceptional 489% increase that outpaces every other major supplier. This rapid expansion has lifted Moroccos market share to nearly 10%, compared with less than 2% twenty years ago. In value terms, Moroccos tomato exports to Germany rose from 14.56 million in 2005 to 157.99 million in 2024, reflecting not only higher volumes but also a strengthening price position. The average price of Moroccan tomatoes reached 2.11 per kilo, surpassing the price of Spanish tomatoes and indicating a shift toward higher-value segments. Despite this remarkable rise, Morocco still trails the Netherlands, long the dominant supplier, which delivered 360,200 tons to Germany in 2024, accounting for 47.93% of total imports. Spain remains the second-largest source, sending 216,180 tons in 2024, or 28.77% of the market. Moroccan Minister Delegate in charge of National defense Administration, Abdellatif Loudiyi, is participating in the 2026 World defense Show, currently held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During his tour of the show, the Moroccan official visited the stand of Lockheed Martin group. Airpower, local supply chain integration and MRO capability continue to define our decades-long partnership with Morocco, said the U.S. defense giant in a post on its X account. The strategic partnership between Morocco and Lockheed Martin is driven by shared commitment to innovation, security and economic progress. Lockheed integrates Moroccan suppliers into its global supply chain, increase local content in its platforms, and enhance local manufacturing capabilities. Lockheed Martins partnership with Morocco started in 1974 with the delivery of the first C-130H Hercules tactical airlifter to the Royal Moroccan Air Force. Today, the companys contributions include advanced defense platforms such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon, Sikorsky helicopters, radars, and integrated air and missile defense technologies. The World Defense Show 2026 is being held in Riyadh from Feb. 8 to 12, with the participation of represntatives of major international and regional defense and security companies. Indias decision to halt Russian oil purchases as part of a wider trade deal with the U.S. announced last week would mark the most dramatic rupture in MoscowNew Delhi energy ties in half a century if the commitment holds. And it comes at the precise moment Washington has been trying to force this break since the first weeks of the Ukraine war. For years, India has been one of the single biggest financial pressure?valves keeping Russias wartime economy alive buying millions of barrels a day at steep discounts, refining them, and often sending the products back into global markets while Western governments warned that the trade was underwriting the Kremlins Ukraine war. Now, under the sweeping new trade deal with the U.S., Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has agreed not just to unwind that lifeline to Russia, but also to redirect Indias crude flows toward American and U.S.-aligned suppliers. If New Delhi follows through on its promise to end Russian oil purchases, the shift will strike directly at one of the Kremlins last dependable revenue streams, rewire Indias energy map, and signal a strategic realignment to the West that will ripple from Asia Pacific to the Middle East. Indias agreement with the U.S. is built around a simple but far-reaching trade swap. In return for halting Russian oil imports, the U.S. has slashed its tariff burden on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, reversing the punitive layers imposed last year as New Delhi kept buying discounted Russian barrels. Modi has also committed to buying over US$500?billion worth of U.S. energy, technology, agricultural products, coal, and other goods a scale of commercial alignment that goes far beyond crude flows. Indian refiners have already begun repositioning: Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the countrys largest state-run refiner, is exploring ways to lift more U.S. crude and is open to Venezuelan barrels when they re-enter the market, while refiner Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Reliance Industries Jamnagar complex have pulled back sharply from Russian grades. Even before this latest announcement, India appears to have been working toward its new position on Russia, with the shift visible in the data. Russian exports to India have collapsed from 1.5?million barrels per day (bpd) a year ago to just 436,000?bpd in January, while U.S. shipments have risen and Middle East Gulf supplies have surged to 3?million?bpd. For Washington, the deal is designed to tighten the financial vice on Moscow; for India, it is framed as part of a broader diversification strategy at a moment when its energy demand is set to grow faster than any other major economy. Related: US Oil Drillers Add Rigs Even in Price Uncertainty Indias retreat from Russian barrels lands hardest because it collides directly with a relationship that has been one of the most durable pillars of New Delhis foreign and energy policy for decades. Moscow has been more than just a supplier; it has been Indias strategic backstop the source of cheap crude, discounted refined products, and the bulk of Indias legacy military hardware. Even after the Ukraine invasion, that relationship only deepened. Russia became Indias largest oil supplier almost overnight, providing up to 36% of its crude at the peak -- around 1.8 million bpd -- at steeply discounted prices compared to global benchmarks. At the same time, the two sides expanded defence cooperation, access to the geopolitically critical Arctic region, and joint logistics agreements that gave India a foothold in the Northern Sea Route. Putins visit last December to New Delhi underscored how central India had become to Russias sanctions?era survival: he promised uninterrupted fuel shipments, reaffirmed long-term energy ties, and folded India into the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support pact that opened Russian Arctic ports to Indian naval resupply. For Moscow, India was not just a customer but a geopolitical anchor proof that Russia was not isolated and that its energy could always find a home. That is the context in which Modis new U.S. deal lands, and why the question now is not simply whether India can replace Russian barrels, but whether it is prepared to unwind a strategic partnership that has been stitched into its energy security, defence posture, and diplomatic identity for half a century. Much of the answer now depends on whether Washington can sustain the discipline and strategic patience required to keep India inside this new geopolitical and economic framework, with the logic behind the 2 February announcement being the same that underpinned Trumps original India strategy in his first term. One of the two key elements driving that thinking was the belief that India was finally ready to act as a pivotal counterbalance to Chinas expanding power across the Asia Pacific region. That conviction hardened after 15 June 2020, when Indian and Chinese troops fought running battles in the Galwan Valley -- the first deadly confrontation between the two countries since 1975. Washington read those clashes, and the smaller skirmishes that followed across the disputed frontier, as signs that India might be prepared to resist Chinas expanding economic and military footprint through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It also hoped that this new assertiveness would spill into Indias long-stalled Neighbourhood First policy, giving the U.S. a partner capable of offering a credible alternative to Beijings BRI network. Crucially, Indias rapid economic rise was also expected to drive a huge expansion in its demand for oil and gas, with the International Energy Agency projecting it would account for 25% of global energy demand growth over the next two decades. For Washington, that demand surge could be the lever for the second element of the strategy: drawing key Middle Eastern energy producers deeper into the U.S. orbit by tying them into Indias growth story. The central aim of this second part of the strategy rested on using Indias emergence as the Asia Pacifics next major demand centre to reshape the Middle Easts strategic alignment. If India was set to drive a quarter of global energy demand growth over the next two decades, then the states supplying that demand Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others would have powerful incentives to anchor themselves inside a U.S.-directed regional order. That order revolved around expanding the network of ArabIsrael normalisation deals (Abraham Accords), strengthening Israels security position, and pulling key Gulf producers back from the gravitational pull of Iran, Russia, and China. The logic was simple: tie Middle Eastern producers into Indias growth story, tie India into a long-term partnership with the U.S. and use that combined leverage to rebuild a regional architecture that could contain Irans nuclear ambitions without triggering a wider war. The 2 February deal is the first time this design has been activated at scale, with Washington now adding its own oil and gas supplies to ensure Indias needs can be met without Russian barrels. The question from here is whether the U.S. can deliver on the trade, defence, and energy commitments that make this architecture credible -- because without that follow-through, it looks likely that India will hedge, the Gulf will drift, and the strategic window Washington has opened could close as quickly as it appeared. By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The United States has cemented its position as the world's leading exporter of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) over the past couple of years, thanks to surging natural gas demand in Europe and Asia. U.S. LNG exports hit a record 111 million tons in 2025, surpassing 100 million metric tons for the first time, driven by high utilization and new capacity additions from projects like Plaquemines LNG. But this could be just the beginning of the U.S. LNG boom: the EIA has predicted that U.S. LNG export capacity will more than double by 2029, with an estimated 13.9 Bcf/d of new capacity added between 2025 and 2029 as projects like Plaquemines LNG Phase 1 and Corpus Christi Stage 3 reach full operations. Meanwhile, additional projects such as Delta LNG, CP2 LNG, and others are expected to further bolster capacity toward 2030. However, the energy experts are now warning that all this growth will come at cost, as does everything. According to Wood Mackenzie, European demand for industrial natural gas has declined by 21% since 2021 while industrial power demand has decreased by 4%, driven by soaring gas prices after Russias invasion of Ukraine. However, WoodMac has projected that the ongoing massive wave of new global LNG supply, primarily from the U.S. and Qatar, is expected to nearly halve European traded gas prices by 2030 compared to 2025 levels, saving European industry roughly $46 billion annually by 2032. Conversely, surging LNG exports and soaring demand from AI data centers are projected to push domestic U.S. gas prices to an average of $4.90/MMBtu between 2030 and 2035, a nearly 50% increase from 2025 levels. This constitutes a narrowing competitive gap, with the large cost advantage that U.S. manufacturers have enjoyed for over a decade poised to shrink despite U.S. energy remaining cheaper than European energy in absolute terms. Related: US Oil Drillers Add Rigs Even in Price Uncertainty That doesnt mean that European manufacturers will be complaining, though. The EU has become heavily reliant on the U.S., which supplied more than 57% of EU LNG imports by early 2026, up from 45% in 2024. Consequently, falling energy prices will benefit energy-intensive industries sectors such as petrochemicals, metals, and chemicals, which have been under severe cost pressure since the global energy crisis hit four years ago, with WoodMac reporting they are going through a "price reversal window" that will allow them to stabilize or recover. Lower European energy costs are expected to open up growth opportunities, with WoodMac predicting that the continents pharmaceuticals, food processing, and data center sectors are likely to capture a larger share of the international market. This could, however, prove to be a double-edged sword for the U.S. economy. Indeed, the U.S. LNG boom is poised to create a complex, often contradictory impact on the U.S. economy, acting as a major driver for GDP growth, job creation, and infrastructure investments while simultaneously raising domestic energy costs and complicating the energy transition. The LNG boom is expected to contribute up to $1.3 trillion to the U.S. GDP by 2040 and generate $166 billion in federal and state tax revenues, according to an S&P Global study. The industry is expected to create nearly 500,000 jobs, encompassing direct, indirect, and induced employment. Over $50 billion is projected to flow into new, massive infrastructure projects (e.g., Plaquemines, Golden Pass, Port Arthur). In contrast, experts warn that even relatively modest increases in gas and energy prices can lead to large increases in operating costs, potentially taking a toll on margins. An analysis by the Industrial Energy Consumers of America (IECA) found that every $1 increase in the Henry Hub price costs U.S. consumers and manufacturers ~$54 billion annually in combined gas and electricity expenses, including $20 billion more in electricity expenses as well as $34 billion increase in direct natural gas costs for consumers and manufacturers. For manufacturers, who often cannot pass on energy costs as easily as regulated utilities, a $1 increase in the Henry Hub price poses a direct threat to competitive advantage. Industries that rely heavily on natural gas, such as manufacturing, chemicals, and fertilizers, face increased operational costs, with estimates of up to $125 billion in added costs by 2050. But its not just large industries that could suffer the negative consequences of the ongoing AI and LNG boom. Increased exports connect the U.S. domestic natural gas market to higher global prices, driving higher electricity and heating bills for U.S. households. Meanwhile, analysts have warned that the U.S. could face a domestic energy crunch that could trigger spikes in energy prices if natural gas production growth fails to meet export demand growth. This could negatively impact the clean energy transition, with higher natural gas prices making coal power more competitive in the domestic electricity market. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Indias largest state-owned refiner, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), has boosted purchases of crude oil from ?West Africa and the Middle East, as New Delhi steers clear of Russian crude in the wake of the trade deal with the United States. Indian Oil has acquired six million barrels of Middle East and West Africa crudes, traders told Reuters on Monday. The refiner has bought crude from Nigeria, Angola, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) via tenders issued last week for delivery in April. Indian Oil has bought Pazflor crude from Angola and Agbami from Nigeria via the trading arm of supermajor TotalEnergies. Separately, the Indian refiner has also acquired Bonny Light and Akpo crudes from Nigeria from Shell, according to Reuters sources. Commodity trader Mercuria has also sold two million barrels of UAEs Upper Zakum crude to the Indian refiner, the sources added. Indian refiners in general are not taking offers for Russian crude for March and April delivery and could continue avoiding such deals for a longer period of time, trade and refining sources told the publication. India is retreating from the spot market, following the U.S.-India trade deal that depends on India significantly scaling back imports of oil from Russia, which has become the countrys top supplier. In a sign that Indian refiners are now carefully assessing options and stay away from Russian oil, tankers carrying a total of up to 12 million barrels of crude oil were either en route or close to China in East Asian waters last week, waiting for buyers in the worlds top crude importer. In another sign that China is now the safest destination for Russias oil, Russian crude is being offered in China at widening discounts to attract Chinese refiners. With Indian refiners waiting for guidance on how to proceed with the oil trade with Russia, sellers of Russias crude are looking to attract additional purchases in China with hefty discounts of the Russian blends to Brent. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The Namibian government will not recognize an asset acquisition deal involving TotalEnergies and Petrobras because they did not follow procedure. In a statement on Sunday, the countrys Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy said, as quoted by Reuters, that TotalEnergies and Petrobras had not notified it of their intentions to acquire a 42.5% each in the PEL104 offshore license and had therefore failed to secure the formal approval of the government for the acquisition. The government makes it clear that in accordance with the law, any transfer, assignment, or acquisition of participating interests in petroleum licenses in Namibia must obtain prior approval of the minister, the ministry said. TotalEnergies said on Friday it had signed agreements to buy a 42.5% operated interest in the PEL104 exploration license offshore Namibia from Eight Offshore Investments Holdings and Maravilla Oil & Gas. Upon completion of the transaction - if the Namibian government gives the supermajor its blessing - TotalEnergies will be the operator of the license, which lies north of the PEL 83 license of the giant Mopane discovery. The French supermajor will own a 42.5% interest alongside Petrobras (42.5%), Namcor (10%), and Eight (5%). Earlier, TotalEnergies completed a stake swap deal with Portugals Galp, under which the French company would get a 40% operating stake in the block containing the Mopane discoveryone of the most promising ones in recent yearsand Galp would get 10% in the block with the Venus discovery and 9.39% in a third block, PEL91. Namibia hopes to become the next Guyana, but it lacks the infrastructure to fast-track the discoveries, which makes them more expensive and difficult to develop and monetize. Still, the oil industry appears ready and willing to make the necessary investments to secure future production from new deposits that would serve to replace mature assets entering the depletion phase. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The government of New Zealand has shortlisted proposals to have its first LNG import terminal operational by early 2028 as it looks to boost energy security amid falling domestic gas supply, Energy Minister Simon Watts said on Monday. New Zealands natural gas buffer has all but vanished in the past decade, as production has slumped and an offshore exploration ban was in place between 2018 and 2025. Last year, New Zealand reopened for oil and gas exploration, ready to receive applications for exploration projects after a seven-year pause, following the lifting of a ban on such activity installed by the previous government. The upstream policy reversal, however, will not lead to new supply in the near and medium term, so New Zealands government has turned to the LNG option to secure its gas supply. The Government has shortlisted leading proposals and is progressing to commercial contracting, with the aim of signing a contract by mid-2026. The LNG import facility could be operational as soon as 2027 or early 2028. Following extensive analysis and the first stage of procurement, the government will contract to build an LNG import facility, in a critical step to strengthen New Zealands energy security and support economic growth, Watts said. New Zealand is experiencing a renewable electricity boom, but a rapidly declining gas supply has left our electricity sector exposed during dry years, when our hydro lakes run low, the minister added. The depleting gas supply has actually made New Zealand more reliant on coal and diesel, with ultimately higher prices pressuring both households, businesses, and industry, according to Watts. The LNG import facility in the coastal Taranaki region of New Zealands North Island is expected to provide a reliable backup fuel source, reducing the impact of dry-year risk on electricity pricing and stabilizing electricity costs, the government says. Access to LNG is also expected to protect around 2000 jobs from the economic impact of rising energy prices and gas shortages, Minister Watts noted. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The giant Tengiz oilfield in Kazakhstan has returned 60% of its peak production and was pumping at a rate of 550,000 barrels per day as of Sunday, following a forced shutdown for half of January due to a fire, anonymous sources told Reuters on Monday. Tengiz, which is operated by a consortium led by U.S. supermajor Chevron, is expected to reach peak levels of oil output of about 950,000 bpd by February 23, according to the sources familiar with the production data. The Tengiz oilfield was forced into a temporary shutdown on January 18 after fires damaged a critical power generation and distribution facility. Production and exports were halted following damage to site power systems serving the field and the adjacent Korolev oilfield, Kazakhstan said. Two fires broke out on January 18 at transformers serving different generation trains at the GTES-4 power plant. The power unit supplies electricity to oil and gas processing facilities at Tengiz. Both fires were extinguished, and the field and related infrastructure were described as safe and secure. Before the forced shutdown, Tengiz was producing about 360,000 barrels per day of crude oil, although its capacity is nearly triple the production figure. Kazakhstan has set up a special commission that is investigating the incident, the Kazakh Energy Ministry said last month. The commission includes members of the Chevron-led field operator Tengizchevroil, as well as representatives of regional and state agencies. Crude oil from Tengiz is being exported through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) pipeline to the CPC marine terminal on Russias Black Sea. CPC exports have been disrupted in recent weeks due to Ukrainian drone strikes and severe winter weather. Tengizchevroils shareholders include Chevron with a 50% stake, ExxonMobil with 25%, Kazakhstans state oil and gas firm KazMunayGaz with a 20% interest, and Russian Lukoil with 5%. By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Katie Price has defended her decision to marry Lee Andrews. Katie Price married Lee Andrews in Dubai last month The 47-year-old former glamour model tied the knot with the businessman in Dubai last month after a whirlwind romance and insists she is "not stupid" amid concerns about her new spouse's background. Packing her bags to visit Lee in the Middle East, Katie said in her latest YouTube video: "I'm going back to Dubai, obviously going back to see Lee. I've made no comments about anything, I don't feel I need to comment about anything. "I'm fully aware like everyone else, I see stuff, I get sent stuff. What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a*** woman. "I'm 48 this year, I'm not a young kid. I've learned a lot in the past few years, through therapy and learning to love myself. So I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing and if I'm happy that's all that matters." The star continued: "At the end of the day, no one knows what I know. It's only been speculated by the press. "I am very happy and that's all that matters. That happy I'm going back to Dubai for the weekend. So I can't wait." Katie implored her fans not to be concerned about her decision to marry for the fourth time. She said: "If there's anything to update you on, I would always update you all. But I just want people to not worry. "I'm not worried, so you don't need to worry about anything. Like I say, I will do what I want to do. "But I want everyone to know you don't need to worry, I'm really happy, there's nothing to worry about. That's all I need to address on that." Katie explained how she married Lee "at first sight", with the couple exchanging vows just days after meeting in Dubai. She told The Sun newspaper: "How I met Lee was esoteric; we connected [by] both checking each others socials and quickly realised: 'Wow, this is for me'. "In the old-fashioned way, first by words which captured us both. That evolved deeper as we connected further within days [getting] matching tattoos, and then both deciding to buy rings for the other. "All this without even meeting, we let fate, but you could say destiny, decide." Price added: "Im just so happy with my person that is just as happy as I am. What we have, they havent even invented the words. He has now the best version of me which can only grow more, knowing we are each others'. "On the wedding, all I can say is fatale, and this was a wedding at First Sight." Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries cost Russias oil and gas sector as much as $12.9 billion (1 trillion Russian rubles) last year, according to a local insurance broker. Direct losses for the sector topped $1.3 billion (100 billion rubles) in 2025. If these are added to the indirect losses and missed sales and profits, the total losses for Russias oil and gas industry amounted to $13 billion, Yevgeny Borovikov, deputy CEO at insurance broker Mains, told Russian daily Kommersant. Last year, Russian insurers booked losses as insurance claims for sabotage and terrorism skyrocketed amid intensified Ukrainian attacks on key infrastructure, including energy infrastructure and refineries, market participants told Kommersant. Crude oil deliveries to Russias refineries slumped in 2025 to the lowest level in at least 15 years, mostly due to unplanned outages in the second half of the year following intensified Ukrainian drone strikes on key Russian energy infrastructure. Last year, crude supply to Russian refineries slumped to 228.34 million tons. The decline in deliveries also led to lower crude processing rates, which dropped by 1.7% in 2025 from a year earlier, according to data cited Kommersant last month. Analysts attributed the drop in supplies to unscheduled maintenance at refineries following a series of external factors in the second half of 2025, while the Russian Energy Ministry has not commented on the matter. Russia has not publicly commented on or shared details of any refinery shutdowns or unplanned outages. In the second half of 2025, Ukraine intensified attacks on Russias oil refineries, depots, and export terminals in an escalation of the war on energy infrastructure, which has also seen Russia targeting Ukraines gas producing facilities and gas and power distribution networks as temperatures dropped. At one point in September, nearly 15% of Russias crude processing capacity was offline and in need of repairs following drone hits. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Despite the excitement over the Cove Capital deal, other American efforts remain in early stages, and Central Asian partners have expressed concerns about US investors' limited follow-through, preferring Western partners who also offer processing capacity over raw material extraction. The deal is intended to challenge China's control of over 80 percent of the world tungsten market, with US financing from the Export-Import Bank and International Development Finance Corporation helping to de-risk the project. A US-Central Asia business forum highlighted a significant, US government-backed $1.1 billion deal for California-based Cove Capital to develop two tungsten deposits in Kazakhstan, representing the first major American venture into the region's critical minerals sector. A US-Central Asia business forum that concluded February 5 in Kyrgyzstan highlighted the significant inroads Washington has made into the regions mining sector. But it also has shown that much remains to be done if the United States is to gain a larger share of the regions abundance of critical minerals and rare earths. A central focus of the second B5+1 forum -- which promotes public-private collaborations by bringing together policymakers and business leaders from across Central Asia and the US -- was on critical minerals. And within that sphere, much attention was paid to the $1.1-billion, US government-backed deal revealed by California-based Cove Capital to develop two tungsten deposits in Kazakhstan south of Karaganda. Coves portfolio entity, Cove Kaz Capital Group LLC (Cove Kaz), will oversee the project. Announced at President Trumps November summit with the five Central Asian leaders, the Cove Kaz project represents the first major American foray into the Central Asian critical minerals sector. Dominic Heaton, who was named CEO of Cove Kaz in late November, laid out the vision for the project in an interview with Eurasianet. The US, like most of the western world, grew comfortable with taking raw materials and intermediates from China, he said. The present administration, building on previous administrations, has recognized that this needs to be actioned as a priority. It will take some time, but they are being proactive and moving toward being more resource focused. As business leaders and ministry officials hobnobbed in Bishkek, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance announced a sweeping plan for a US-led critical mineral trading bloc following a White House meeting of foreign officials that included Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. With China in control of more than 80 percent of the world market for tungsten, the Cove Capital deal plays an important role in the US global strategy. Cove Kaz is forming a partnership with the Kazakh national mining company Tau-Ken Samruk to develop two neighboring tungsten deposits with a 70 percent stake for the American firm and 30 percent for the Kazakhs. To de-risk the deal and enable Cove to outmaneuver Chinese bidders for the project, the US Export-Import Bank signed a letter of interest for up to $900 million in financing. In addition, the US International Development Finance Corporation has issued letters of intent for up to $700 million for debt financing and project development funding. The first mine is expected to produce about 5,000 tons of tungsten annually, while the second mine will yield 7,000 tons a year, Cove has said. If the mines were exploited sequentially, that would represent approximately 50 years of supply, with the potential to underpin US consumption, said Heaton, a soft-spoken Australian who previously oversaw the development of a tungsten mining and processing complex in Vietnam that is the largest of its kind outside China. A final deal with the Kazakhs is imminent, after which Cove will conduct a feasibility study that will take about two years, Heaton said. If the outcome of the feasibility study is positive, something the company is reasonably confident about, Cove Kaz will lock down financing and do engineering work before two years of construction. Production is expected to begin in approximately five years, Heaton said. Despite concerns about logistics, Heaton said shipping the envisioned amounts of tungsten to Europe and North America is eminently achievable, adding that regulations and customs procedures are not overly problematic. Kazakh authorities are improving the consistent interpretation of the rules and aligning them with western standards, he said. The price of tungsten has soared recently, reaching $1,100 a ton in late January 2026, up from $320 in spring of 2024. China, currently the main producer, caused the price spike by decreasing export quotas. Chinas actions have bolstered Cove Capital executives confidence in their project. The company has already received several letters of support from potential customers, who are major players in North American industry, suggesting that not only are financiers interested, weve got our customer base whos willing to, at the appropriate time, engage on financing discussions, Heaton said. Cove Kaz plans to build tungsten refining capacity near the mines, but discussions about the processing plants timing and structure within the joint venture are ongoing, he said. Yet, even with all the enthusiasm, Coves project stands as a lonely example of an American critical minerals venture in the region. Many other American efforts are still in early days. When it comes to deals, both sides are still feeling each other out. Jim Mooney, the CEO of the Mooney Group, a boutique mining firm with operations in Montana and Armenia, was at the Bishkek forum to get the lay of the land. Mooney is focused on antimony, an element vital for semiconductors, batteries and the defense industry, and he is examining Tajikistan in particular. The substantial deposits there are advantageous because they are often found along with gold, offering miners a sort of insurance policy against price fluctuations in the fickle rare earth minerals markets, he said. But at this stage, Mooney is still looking into how cooperative Central Asian governments would be and how efficient the licensing and exploration processes are. Weve been cut off, he said, referencing on-again-off-again Chinese export restrictions on antimony. So, we have to get it. And we have to get it with the speed of relevance. We cant go through a five-year licensing program. From the Central Asian side, there is concern about US follow-through. While there has been lots of enthusiastic, positive talk coming out of Washington, many in Central Asia want to see more actions accompany encouraging words. Almaz Ashirov, investor relations manager at Almaty-based Dala Resources, a Kazakh company developing two lithium deposits southwest of Ust-Kamenogorsk, told Eurasianet that interest in Dalas project has been limited from US investors. The price of lithium collapsed in 2024, but consumption has continued to grow, and the metal is a Trump administration priority. Bilateral banks make big announcements about $1 billion investments, but that doesnt get down to us, he said. They just need to hear about us. Chinese companies by contrast have heard, and they are interested. They constantly write and call us, but we havent made a partnership, because weve got hope to find a western partner, Ashirov said. Chinese companies are only interested in extracting raw materials, not in developing processing capacity as the US and Europe have promised to do, he added. Those in Central Asias mining sector are still enthusiastic about the Trump administrations stepped-up engagement on minerals. In September of last year, negotiations over Cove Capitals deal in Kazakhstan were a bit delayed, going a bit slowly when US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick brought the project up in a meeting with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Heaton said. Then Mr. Lutnick was able to close out their meeting by getting President Trump on his personal phone, to talk, in part, about the project, he said. It shows the project is a strategic imperative for the White House that provides an example that engagement is possible here, Heaton added. By Alexander Thompson via Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com " " In Madagascar, French is a co-official language alongside Malagasy. Zaruba Ondrej / Shutterstock More than 300 million people around the world speak French, making it one of the most widely spoken languages on the planet. This global language has spread far beyond France, thanks to centuries of French colonialism, cultural exchange and diplomacy. Today, dozens of French-speaking countries span nearly every continent. Here's a look at where French thrives, from nations where its the only official language to places with significant French-speaking populations. Justice Mohamed Khadar Ibrahim made history as the first Kenyan of Somali origin to rise to the countrys highest judicial office, leaving behind a legacy defined by legal excellence, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice and democracy. Justice Ibrahim was formally admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya on January 11, 1983, becoming one of the earliest members of the Kenyan Somali community to reach senior professional status in the legal field. At a time when representation of minorities in the judiciary was rare, his achievement marked a turning point for inclusion and recognition. In 1994, he established his own private law firm, Mohammed Ibrahim & Co., which later expanded in 1997 and was rebranded as Ibrahim & Isaack Advocates. Through the firm, he built a reputation as a disciplined, principled, and highly respected lawyer. Beyond private practice, Justice Ibrahim was also a founding member of Mwangaza Trust, a human rights organization known for its advocacy on social justice and the protection of marginalized communities. His work placed him among the most prominent voices calling for fairness, accountability, and the rule of law in Kenya. That commitment came at a personal cost. In July 1990, during the authoritarian one-party era under President Daniel arap Moi, Justice Ibrahim was detained without trial for one month at Kamiti Prison. His detention was linked to his legal advice and support for pro-democracy activists, as well as his opposition to elements of the ruling political system at the time. In later years, Justice Ibrahim played a critical institutional role by serving as a key link between the High Court and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, strengthening coordination between judicial and electoral bodies during sensitive national processes. His judicial career spanned 23 years, during which he held several senior positions. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court of Kenya, he served with distinction at the Court of Appeal, earning respect for his legal reasoning and integrity. Justice Ibrahim was part of the Supreme Court bench during the landmark 2017 presidential election petition filed by opposition leader Raila Odinga against then-President Uhuru Kenyatta. During the proceedings, he fell ill and was placed under medical care, a development formally communicated by then Chief Justice David Maraga. Despite his absence, the court proceeded in accordance with constitutional provisions requiring a minimum quorum of judges. On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Justice Mohamed Ibrahim passed away at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi at the age of 69, according to fellow judge Mohamed Warsame. Chief Justice Martha Koome led tributes, offering condolences to his family, colleagues, and the wider legal community. Justice Mohamed Ibrahims life journeyfrom a pioneering advocate to a Supreme Court judgestands as a powerful testament to perseverance, principle, and public service. For Kenyas Somali community and the nation at large, his legacy endures as a reminder that justice, when pursued with courage and integrity, can reshape institutions and inspire generations. Guwahati: Amid all chaos, where the ethnic armed groups continue offensives against the ruling Myanmar military junta across the Buddhist majority country, the Sanatani Hindus celebrated 75th Maha Ramayana Harinama Ram chanting festival in Rakhine/Arakan province in western border of the southeast Asian nation. The four-day festival, held in Maungdaw locality with the participation of thousands of Hindu families along with local Buddhists in sacred rituals with great enthusiasm, concluded on 3 February 2026. Organized by the Maungdaw Hindu affairs committee with the support from the Arakan People's Revolutionary Government where the security was ensured by the members belonging to the Arakan Army (AA). One of the most revered religious events for the Hindus in Myanmar/Burma, the festival was not usually promoted by the military rulers and this time it became possible after the AA fighters captured the Maungdaw locality with a sizable population of Rohingya Muslims. The Bangladesh bordering strategic town Maungdaw and its surrounding areas remain under the control of AA since December 2024. According to local Arakanese media outlets, over 3,000 Hindus from different localities like Buthidaung, Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, besides Maungdaw, attended the religious ceremony, where a good number of AA officials were present. They all were served with vegetarian dishes, prepared with local varieties of pulses and vegetables, where the authorities provided free healthcare to the participants during the festival. It is believed that the festival venue at Kyaukpantu mountain in the coastal area has a historical connection to Lord Rama, Lord Lakshman and Devi Sita. Primary activities of the festival include the recitation of great epic Ramayana and also praying to monkey god Hanuman. According to the traditional belief, offering Puja to the son of Wind God, one gets endless blessings to overcome all difficulties in life. Celebration of the Ramayani festival is propagated to preserve religious traditions and also foster harmony, unity and peace among all communities in the Arakan region of western Myanmar. The eastern neighbour of Bharat also witnesses the celebration of Diwali, Navaratri, Durga Puja, Panguni Uthiram, etc, primarily hosted by the Myanmarese Tamil and Bengali communities. Authorities arrest 8 from over a dozen raids in Limones, Bacalar Bacalar, Q.R. After a tense weekend of highway roadblocks, state authorities say eight people are now in custody. They were arrested during raids that were carried out in the small town of Limones located in the municipality of Bacalar. Police raided over a dozen homes Sunday night in response to the ongoing highway roadblocks that created a kilometers-long line of traffic. The raids came on the heels of the third roadblock set up by residents being encouraged by a member of a criminal group. People from Limones continued to block the federal 307 highway Sunday after, police said, they were incited by a gang member through a community WhatsApp group. It was the third time a fiery roadblock had been set up in as many days. On Friday night, authorities dismantled a highway roadblock outside Limones made by the same group. On Sunday, police said they executed 15 search warrants and arrested a total of eight people. Among those arrested, police reported is Heydi Esmeralda N, a relative of Jesus N, alias Pelusa, who was killed by authorities on February 2 of this year. Members of the states Interinstitutional Group simultaneously executed 15 search warrants in the community of Limones, they said. Eight people were arrested, four males and four females, in addition to seizing substances similar to narcotics, cars and motorcycles. Police reported that in custody they have Heydi Esmeralda N, Beatriz N, Elvira Judith N, Zeili Mariela N, Jesus Emmanuel N, Rene N, Cristian Jafed N and Santos Eduardo N. The latter, they reported, had a re-arrest order for aggravated injuries. According to initial investigations, Heydi Esmeralda N is identified as the person who allegedly incited residents through a WhatsApp messaging application to block the federal highway 307 as well as to burn vehicles. Police said Heydi Esmeralda N is a relative of Jesus N, alias Pelusa, an alleged member of a criminal group that generates violence, dedicated to drug dealing, homicide and extortion in the community. He was killed by authorities on February 2 of this year. As a result of these proceedings, doses of suspected narcotics were seized in the properties intervened as well as five vehicles, including one armored vehicle, and three motorcycles, police stated. Following the execution of the court orders, agents placed seizure seals on 14 properties which were then placed under the custody of the State Attorney Generals Office. Over a dozen waitresses rescued from forced prostitution in Felipe Carrillo Puerto bar Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Q.R. Police rescued 17 women from forced prostitution inside a Felipe Carrillo Puerto bar. Authorities searched the establishment over the weekend where they found the women inside. Police said the women were initially hired as waitresses, but once at the establishment, they were forced to provide sexual services. The State Attorney General (FGE) said they executed a search warrant at the bar where they located 16 Mexican women and one Venezuelan woman. All 17 were found to be victims of human trafficking in its form of prostitution. The rescued took place Saturday night February 7, 2026. The court order, in which members of the National Guard and the Navy also participated, took place in an establishment that operates as a bar, located on 76th Street, where the 17 women were found working, they said in a statement. Initial investigations suggest that the women came to work at the establishment as waitresses. Most are single mothers who need to provide for their families. At first, they only worked as waitresses, interacting with customers, but over time they were forced into prostitution. After the women were removed, the bar was shut down and remains under the custody of the FGE. Diplo has teased that BTS' upcoming album ARIRANG is going to "shock the world". Diplo attends Pre-GRAMMY Gala 2026 The producer got to work on the K-pop boy band's new record, which arrives on March 20, and he hailed the 14-track collection as the "craziest album ever". Speaking to TMZ at the Fanatics Super Bowl party over the weekend, he said: "I just feel so lucky because I've been working for three decades and to link up with a group like that, and have them trust me and do some awesome music ... honestly, it's gonna shock the world. Craziest album ever." Heaping praise on the vocals, he said: "Jung Kook - no autotune. Perfect voice." He declared: "For sure, it's gonna be the biggest thing I've ever done." BTS have said they hope the record "transcends time and generations". The album marks their first release in more than three years, and comes after each member completed their mandatory military service in South Korea. To promote the LP, each band member recorded a hidden voice message accessible by clicking the cover on the BTS website, in which they acknowledged how excited they are for the group's future and how much their loyal fan base - ARMY - inspires them. Jung Kook said: "We shared our feelings with each other as we completed the album, including how much we missed you, how much we value you and how excited we are about the future." J-hope noted: "While working on this album, we thought about what kind of music and stories would be the most BTS-like." RM said: "We hope ARIRANG of BTS will be an album that transcends time and generations and sticks with you for a long, long time." SUGA commented: "After many conversations we made a 14 tracks album that captures the stories of seven of us." Jin said: "Thanks for always being by our side. What is your ARIRANG?" V added: "This is our full group album as a group in 3 years and 9 months; we spend a lot of time thinking about the group roots and identity." The project takes its name from Arirang, the beloved Korean folk song recognised worldwide for its emotional pull and cultural importance. Often associated with themes of separation, reunion and shared longing, the song has endured for generations - making it a fitting touchstone for a record rooted in reflection and identity. According to the groups team, ARIRANG sees BTS turning inward, drawing on their heritage and lived experiences to craft a body of work only they could create. The album is said to explore the universal emotions that have long defined their music - love, yearning and the complexities of growth - while remaining deeply connected to their beginnings in Korea. Stealing cable from Maya Train gets Bacalar man over 3 years in prison Bacalar, Q.R. A man found guilty of stealing cable from a section of Maya Train has been sentenced to over three years. The man police have identified as Edilberto N was sentenced in a Cancun court last week. According to the Attorney General of the Republic (FGR), Edilberto N was found in possession of 43 kilos of copper he had stripped from over 53 meters of cable belonging to the federal government project. The Fiscalia General de la Republica (FGR) said Edilberto N was found guilty of robbery for stealing the operating cable from the Limones-Bacalar section of Tren Maya. Police said he was detained by National Guard in the vicinity of kilometer 1140, section 6 Limones Bacalar, in the state of Quintana Roo., but did not say when he was arrested. He was found in possession of 43 kilos of copper he had stripped from Tren Maya operating cable. Photo: February 3, 2026. He was traveling on a motorcycle and carrying a bag where inside, authorities located 53 meters and four centimeters of copper cable. The copper, they said, had an approximate weight of 43 kilos that belonged to section 6 of the Maya Train. Since the project is federal, the Bacalar man was referred to the Federal Prosecutors Office in Cancun for his trial. He was found guilty of theft and sentenced to three years and three months in prison. He will also have to pay reparation damages in the amount of 56,291 pesos. On January 29, police searched several scrap yard businesses in Chetumal after operating cables were taken from a Maya Train line. The stolen live-line cables left section seven of Tren Maya in the Xul-Ha region inoperable. For seven days, dancers, musicians and craftspeople from dozens of communities across the Sahara meet there, with Niger as guest of honour alongside groups from Mali, Morocco, Mauritania and Burkina Faso. The programme mixes concerts, parades and camel races, with more than 400 dromedaries taking part. Visitors can also see local crafts and taste regional food, from camel milk to traditional dishes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the shows, organisers want to highlight desert heritage, tourism and cooperation between southern countries. After 10 years, the festival has become a rare meeting point for Saharan cultures and shared futures. Key Takeaways Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of many baked goods, even in small amounts. Nielsen-Massey vanilla offers a rich flavor profile preferred by professional bakers. This vanilla extract can be stored for up to three years, making it a practical bulk buy. If youre diving into a recipe for baked goods, chances are vanilla extract is on the ingredients list. Its incorporated into everything from cookies and cakes to banana bread and creme brulee. While typically only one to two teaspoons are called for, that minimal amount goes a long way toward enhancing the flavor of any sweet treat. I'm a professional baker, so I always have pure vanilla extract in my pantrywhich means I always stock up on Nielsen-Massey whenever I find it at Costco. Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract Price: $39 for two 8-ounce bottles Why I Love It: This expert-approved vanilla extract is the gold standard for bakers. I always buy bottles at Costco, where theyre a fraction of the price of other stores. Simply Recipes / Costco Why I Always Buy Vanilla Extract at Costco You can certainly pick up a small bottle of pure vanilla extract at your grocery store. However, if Im at Costco, theres one brand I look for: Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, which many professional bakers turn to for whatever theyre making. Nielsen-Massey vanilla extract has the rich flavor profile you want from vanilla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Costco sells a two-pack of 8-ounce bottles for $39. One eight-ounce bottle is typically $25 to $30 at other stores, depending on the retailer. At this price point, it's cheaper per ounce than many other vanilla extract brands on the market. How To Store Vanilla Extract It may seem like a bit much to buy sixteen ounces of vanilla extract at once, but it lasts longer than you might think. This is a great option if you bake regularly or if you have a lot of seasonal baking coming up, like making dozens of your favorite holiday cookies. The vanilla extract can be stored in your pantry or baking cupboard for up to three years, so youll have some on hand when you dive into your next dessert or baking project. Real Vanilla vs. Imitation Vanilla Though imitation vanilla is cheaper, the flavor won't enhance desserts and other baked goods as well as the real deal. Imitation vanilla is synthetic, whereas pure vanilla is made by soaking vanilla beans in a mixture of water and alcohol to extract its natural flavor. This is especially important for vanilla-forward baked goods, such as vanilla cake and vanilla buttercream frosting. To learn more about our approach to product recommendations, see HERE . Read the original article on Simply Recipes Cranking up the heat in the winter and blasting your air conditioner in the summer can eat into your bottom line. In fact, heating and cooling account for more than half of the average American household's energy use, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, installing a heat pump can dramatically lower your energy bills. Your exact heat-and-cooling savings will vary depending on your local utility rates, energy usage, and other household features, such as insulation and air-sealing. Yet mini-split systems make more sense than ever for homeowners seeking convenient and affordable comfort. Appliance expert Thom Dunn shared his top mini-split picks for Wirecutter, a product-review website owned by the New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Mitsubishi is one of the largest mini-split manufacturers worldwide, perhaps it's no surprise that one of its mini-splits made the list. Mitsubishi also has a robust network of installers across the U.S., making it easy to find a trusted local provider to support your heat-pump journey. Dunn lauded the Mitsubishi Electric Premier MSZ-GX as "a solid option for almost any home." Like other mini-split heat pumps, this unit mounts on the wall, meaning it may be a good fit for you if your property doesn't have existing ductwork or you want to supplement existing equipment. As Dunn acknowledged, though, what works for one person may not be ideal for another. While determining which HVAC is right for your home may feel complicated, Mitsubishi has tools to help you find the right energy-efficient HVAC at a price that works for your budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heat pumps offer quiet, reliable, and versatile comfort while reducing grid strain, along with harmful air pollution associated with electricity generation from energy sources like gas and coal. And contrary to common myths, they can also operate beautifully in cold weather. The key is finding the right system for your home and an installer you can trust. Mitsubishi can connect you with vetted professionals who can help you select and install an efficient HVAC. "Mini-splits are easier to install than a full ducted system and more efficient than window units or central HVAC," Dunn wrote. "Add in thermostat-like controls alongside smart-home integration, and mini-splits start to sound pretty great." Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. Fujii grew up in Californias Bay Area, and trips to Monterey and its aquarium became a regular part of her childhood. She remembers paddling alongside her dad in a kayak on Monterey Bay, watching wild otters float on their backs as they cracked open crabs and let the shells sink. Back then, she mostly took their presence for granted. Today, as a sea otter researcher and program manager at the aquarium, she knows how close California came to losing them and how much now depends on the fragile population that remains. Along Northern Californias coasts, sea otters help habitats endure climate impacts like warming oceans, shifting predator ranges, and harmful algal blooms by keeping underwater plant life healthy and supporting resilient ecosystems. Fujii is still focused on individual sea otters, but shes also tracking a bigger picture of these important creatures over time. A comeback story with a twist From Fujiis vantage point on Monterey Bay, southern sea otters the subspecies that lives along the central California coast are both a conservation success story and a reminder of whats been lost. Once hunted to near extinction for their fur, they survived off the coast of California thanks to a tiny remnant population and, later, federal protections and hands?on conservation work. These days, there are only about 3,000 southern sea otters in California, and their geographical range has shrunk to roughly 13% of the coastline they historically occupied. Their numbers have been relatively steady for years, but their range hasnt meaningfully expanded in about two decades. Globally, sea otters live in coastal waters from Alaska across the North Pacific to Russia, but the southern sea otter is the only population found in California and its the one scientists have studied most closely for its role in kelp forests, sea grass meadows, and coastal wetlands. And over the past several decades, scientists have learned that these animals punch far above their weight, especially along the nearshore strip where land and ocean meet. From cuddly to keystone predator Its easy to see why sea otters are often treated like stuffed animals brought to life. Fujii describes a tiny, five?pound pup as basically a furball its kind of like holding a kitten before their teeth and jaws develop. (Image credit: Courtesy Monterey Bay Aquarium) But the illusion only lasts so long. One longtime aquarium volunteer said he wouldnt want to be stuck in a pool with an adult otter. Its a good reminder that beneath the fluff is a muscular predator built to crush crabs and urchins. Ecologists describe sea otters as a classic keystone species, an animal whose presence has much bigger impacts on its surroundings than its numbers alone would suggest. Unlike many other marine mammals, sea otters dont have a thick layer of blubber to keep them warm. Instead, they rely on extremely dense fur and a very high metabolic rate. Its about two times higher than similarly sized terrestrial mammals, Fujii said, and because they cant store energy as blubber, they need to be consuming those calories every single day. That constant need to eat up to a quarter of their body weight daily helps explain why their foraging makes them major players in nearshore ecosystems. What, and how much, they eat ripples outward through food webs, shaping whether the coast is dominated by thick underwater forests and meadows, or by stripped-down, degraded seafloors that are more vulnerable to climate pressures. Keeping kelp forests alive in a warming ocean In recent years, a prolonged bout of unusually warm ocean conditions made more likely and more intense by climate change has caused kelp forests to crash along much of California, leaving behind vast urchin barrens where little grows besides hungry purple urchins. Around Monterey Bay, though, researchers found that sea otters ramped up their urchin eating in the remaining kelp beds, allowing those last patches of forest to hang on. Left unchecked, urchins can mow down kelp beds and turn lush underwater forests into places where urchins have grazed away almost all the kelp. When otters are present and hunting, they thin out those urchins, giving kelp a chance to grow taller and thicker and to shelter a wide range of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. Across much of their range, when sea otters consume urchins, they keep that population under control and limit how much grazing the urchins are doing on the kelp, Fujii said. That allows the kelp to flourish and be more abundant and provide homes for many other species. A recent study stitched together more than a century of kelp data along the California coast using old maps and satellite images. The analysis found steep losses in the floating kelp canopy in southern and northern regions where otters remain absent, but notable long?term growth in kelp along the Central Coast exactly where sea otter populations have rebounded. Healthy kelp forests, in turn, absorb wave energy and soften the punch of storms that are projected to grow more intense with climate change, reducing erosion along vulnerable shorelines. Scientists are still debating how much long?term carbon storage kelp forests actually provide, said Fujii, since much of that kelp washes ashore and decomposes. But when otters keep kelp alive, they also maintain rich, complex coastal ecosystems that are better able to absorb climate shocks than bare seafloors. In Elkhorn Slough, cleaning up blue carbon habitats The otters climate story doesnt end in the open?coast kelp forests. As the ocean absorbs more than 90% of the excess heat from climate warming pollution and loses oxygen, many marine animals are struggling to cope with warmer, more acidic, less hospitable water. Coastal plants and algae kelp, eelgrass, and other seaweeds are emerging as unlikely allies, drawing down carbon, buffering waves, and giving stressed species places to hide and feed. In sheltered estuaries like Elkhorn Slough, a coastal inlet where freshwater meets seawater just inland from Monterey Bay, researchers have found that sea otters can help keep underwater sea grass meadows and nearby marshes intact. Around a hundred otters now make their home in the slough, one of Californias last great coastal wetlands and a hot spot for birds, fish, and other marine life. The connection runs through the food web: Otters eat crabs. When crab numbers drop, tiny grazers like sea slugs survive and multiply. These grazers dont eat the sea grass; instead, they scrape away algae that builds up on the grass blades. That keeps the meadows healthy even in estuaries loaded with pollution from fertilizers and other runoff. The marsh connection works differently. When shore crab numbers explode, the crabs burrow into marsh banks and chew on plant roots. That destabilizes shorelines and speeds up erosion. By eating those crabs, otters slow the loss of marsh edges that protect nearby communities from flooding and storm surge. All of this matters for climate because sea grass beds and adjacent marshes are blue carbon habitats coastal ecosystems that soak up and lock away carbon in plants and underlying sediments while also stabilizing shorelines and supporting fish and birds. Californias latest climate adaptation strategy explicitly calls out eelgrass as a blue?carbon tool, part of a broader push to protect and restore coastal ecosystems that both store carbon and buffer people from rising seas. (Image credit: Courtesy Monterey Bay Aquarium) Climates double edge: Ally and victim Despite all the ways otters support coastal ecosystems, theyre not immune to the forces reshaping those places. Fujii and her colleagues have documented a sharp rise in sea otters injured or killed by white sharks often juveniles that deliver a single, exploratory bite and dont even eat the animal. Research she worked on has linked those juvenile sharks northward shift to warmer waters, a trend expected to continue as the ocean heats up. Aquarium researchers have also found that otters are more likely to be bitten in areas where the kelp canopy has thinned, potentially leaving them more exposed as they rest and forage near the surface. At the same time, says Fujii, sea otters are increasingly exposed to harmful algal blooms that produce domoic acid, a harmful toxin. In otters, heavy exposure can cause sudden, fatal strandings, while lower?level, chronic doses can quietly damage their hearts over time, leading to lethal heart disease years after an initial bloom has passed. Fujii also worries about more frequent and intense storms, which can separate moms and pups and leave tiny, still?dependent otters stranded on beaches. The species is bolstering coastal ecosystems against climate pressures, while facing mounting climate threats of its own. Why protecting sea otters matters for everyone In 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decided southern sea otters would retain protection under the Endangered Species Act, reflecting how vulnerable the population still is. Unlike many other listed species, though, they still dont have an officially designated critical habitat, even though their nearshore environment is clearly central to their survival. Without more room to grow or formal habitat protections, even a seemingly stable population can be vulnerable. As we continue to see the impacts of climate change, the stress on this population will continue to pile on, Fujii said. Even if they were immune to the impacts of climate change, sea otters clearly wont solve the climate crisis on their own. They wont erase emissions or single-handedly save the coast. But research over the past several decades has shown that they can shift the balance in the places they still inhabit, keeping kelp forests from collapsing into urchin barrens, maintaining sea grass meadows and salt marshes, and shoring up natural defenses that coastal communities will increasingly rely on as seas rise and storms intensify. All this makes them more than just a charismatic species in need of saving. The hope is that by focusing on the recovery of this species, we can inspire protection of other animals and their habitats, and recognize the benefits people get when we protect those places, Fujji said. Basically, everyone wins when we protect otters. In a century defined by hard climate trade-offs, sea otters offer a reminder that some choices still deliver genuine win wins: safeguard a beloved predator, and you safeguard the coastal habitats and human communities that depend on the same resilient, living shorelines. On February 10, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will attend and address the opening session of the First APEC 2026 Senior Officials Meeting in Guangzhou. Kyodo News: The Liberal Democratic Party won a landslide victory in yesterdays Lower House election which would keep Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in power. What foreign policy does China expect from the new government led by Takaichi? Lin Jian: The election is the internal affair of Japan, but this election reflected some deep-seated and structural issues as well as certain emerging views, trends and developments, which deserve serious examination by people with insights in Japan and the international community. The lessons of history are still fresh in memory and should not be left behind. We urge those running the Japanese government to take seriously rather than brush aside the concerns of the international community, follow the path of peaceful development rather than return to militarism, and abide by the four political documents between China and Japan rather than go back on commitments made. If Japans far-right forces miscalculate and act recklessly, they will be met by resistance from the Japanese people and serious backlash from the international community. Chinas policy on Japan has been stable and consistent, and will not change because of one election. We once again urge Japan to retract the erroneous remarks of Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan, and take concrete actions to demonstrate the necessary sincerity to uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations. Our message is very clear: The Chinese people remain unwavering in our determination to safeguard the nations core interests, defend the outcomes of WWII victory and postwar international order, and fight back and thwart any form of provocation and reckless behavior of forces against China. TV Asahi: When asked about a possible visit to the Yasukuni war shrine in an interview after the election, Sanae Takaichi said she is working to create an environment. What is Chinas comment? Lin Jian: The Yasukuni war shrine is a spiritual tool and symbol of Japanese militarists war of aggression. The shrine honors 14 convicted Class-A war criminals responsible for Japans aggression in the 1930s and 40s. The nature of the issue concerning the Yasukuni war shrine is whether Japan is able to rightly perceive and deeply reflect on its history of militarist aggression. The issue bears on human conscience, the political foundation of China-Japan relations and the credibility of Japan as a nation. Amnesia of history means betrayal, and denial of responsibility spells relapse. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the beginning of the Tokyo trials. In such a special year, Japan in particular needs to face squarely and reflect on its history of aggression, be prudent on historical issues such as the Yasukuni war shrine, not repeat history and make a clean break with militarism with real actions. AFP: Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for what Hong Kong authorities have declared national security crimes. Lai is a UK citizen and his case was raised by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on his recent trip to China. President Donald Trump has also previously asked China to release Lai. What is the Foreign Ministrys comment on his sentencing today? Lin Jian: Lai Chee-ying is the principal mastermind and perpetrator behind the series of riots that shook Hong Kong. His moves seriously breached the principles and bottom line of One Country, Two Systems, endangered national security and hurt Hong Kongs prosperity and stability and Hong Kong residents wellbeing. There is every reason to bring him to justice. Hong Kong upholds the rule of law. The judicial authorities of the Hong Kong SAR perform their duties in accordance with the law to uphold its sanctity and safeguard national security. This is legitimate, justified, lawful and beyond reproach. The central government firmly supports the Hong Kong SAR in safeguarding national security and punishing criminal activities that endanger national security in accordance with the law. Facts have proven that when the law on safeguarding national security in Hong Kong is implemented well, there is greater assurance for security and stability in Hong Kong, for the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents, for Hong Kongs reputation, and for the steady and sustained implementation of One Country, Two Systems. Lai Chee-ying is a Chinese national. The judicial case is purely an internal affair of the Hong Kong SAR. We urge relevant countries to respect Chinas sovereignty, respect the rule of law in Hong Kong, not make irresponsible remarks on the Hong Kong SARs handling of the case, and not interfere in Hong Kongs judicial affairs and Chinas internal affairs in any form. TV Tokyo: There is a view that Chinas recent tough stance toward Japan had a significant impact on the outcome of Japans election yesterday. What is your assessment of this? Lin Jian: China never interferes in other countries internal affairs and firmly opposes any erroneous words and deeds that interfere in Chinas internal affairs, infringe on Chinas core interests, violate international law and basic norms governing international relations and disrupt regional peace and stability. Chinas policy toward Japan is clear and maintains continuity and consistency. Whichever leader or political party is in power in Japan, they must abide by the four political documents between China and Japan and Japans own pacifist Constitution, and honor Japans commitments and international obligations. TV Tokyo: Following Japans election results, many posts have appeared on Chinese social media expressing concern about a rightward shift in Japan. How does the Chinese government view this reaction? Lin Jian: Japanese militarists once led Japan to the war of aggression, committed horrendous crimes against Japans Asian neighbors and the world, and also inflicted untold suffering on the Japanese people. No one should forget the potent lessons of history. Only by truly learning those lessons can one look to the future. Whether Japan will stick to the path of peaceful development and take concrete actions to earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community, or go against the trend of history and challenge the post-war international order, is a serious question for those running the Japanese government and people with insights in Japan. TV Asahi: The Liberal Democratic Party won Japans Lower House election. Commenting on Sanae Takaichis election victory, U.S. President Donald Trump said that he wished Takaichi great success in passing her peace through strength agenda. What is Chinas comment? Lin Jian: The election is Japans domestic affair. The way that the U.S. and Japan handle their bilateral relations should be conducive to keeping the region peaceful and stable. AFP: Its been reported that U.S. President Donald Trumps Board of Peace will hold a leaders meeting in Washington, D.C. on February 19. Thats next Thursday. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm that China was invited to this meeting? If so, will China attend and who? Lin Jian: We previously answered questions concerning the Board of Peace and have nothing to add. AFP: China has overturned the death sentence of Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, according to a Canadian official and Schellenbergs lawyer. Does the Foreign Ministry have comments on this decision? Can it be seen as a signal of improving relations between China and Canada? Lin Jian: Weve learned that relevant Chinese judicial authorities recently reviewed the death penalty case and issued a ruling. For anything specific, Id refer you to competent authorities. Let me stress that Chinese judicial authorities handle the case and make the ruling independently in accordance with the law. The 1975 are hard at work in the studio. Matty Healy performing at Leeds Festival 2019 Frontman Matty Healy has admitted he's not getting much shut-eye at the moment because he's splitting his time between making the group's new material - which will follow 2022's Being Funny in a Foreign Language - and playing the 2025 dystopian extraction shooter game Arc Raiders. In a subreddit, he spilled: "Hellooo I have been living in the studio and not sleeping much (happens I think normally one month a year) and after work playing Arc Raiders almost religiously. Ive never had a game thats part of my life like an album or something it has become something I take quite seriously. Would be cool to play with you guys - any suggestions of how to do it without doxing my gamer tag and just blowing my shit up? Loveeeee m x (sic)" Towards the end of 2025, Matty said his life will be hectic over the next two years, telling his Reddit followers: "Feeling very unc and very lucky to be in 1975 atm. Next two years looks mental (sic)" Matty's TV star mother, Denise Welch, previously revealed she had heard the new material her son's band has been working on during their downtime from the road. She was quoted by the Daily Star as saying at the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards in October: Its fabulous. Its very different, but its got the DNA of the 1975, I think youll love it." Matty also confirmed the existence of two albums, one of which is called Dogs. He told students during a Q+A session at Gateshead College in December: We made two. It might be one, it might be two but yeah, weve made two albums. The Love Me group's manager, Dirty Hit label boss Jamie Oborne, told The Money Trench podcast: Theyre making a record at the moment. I dont know when it will come out, but theyre making one. I think theyve earned the right to take their time. The worlds gonna be listening, so it needs to be right. Oborne teased that the LP is already sounding "pretty extraordinary". In 2023, Matty revealed the band would embark on an indefinite hiatus from live shows after completing their mammoth Still At Their Very Best tour in March 2024. Performing at the Golden 1 Center, in Sacramento, California, he told the crowd: Its wonderful youre all here. After this tour, we will be going on an indefinite hiatus with shows, so its wonderful to have you guys with us tonight. Thank you so much. On the afternoon of February 4, 2026, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People with Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee and Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung, who is on a special visit to China as the Special Envoy of General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee To Lam. Xi Jinping noted that the CPC and the CPV have maintained the fine tradition of reciprocal notification of their respective major political agendas, a practice that embodies the unique and friendly bond of China and Viet Nam as comrades and brothers, as well as their high-level political mutual trust. Xi Jinping said that during his recent phone talks with General Secretary To Lam, the two sides exchanged in-depth views on further advancing the building of a China-Viet Nam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance and reached important common understandings. Xi Jinping expressed the belief that under the strong leadership of the CPV Central Committee headed by Comrade To Lam, the Party, the country, and the people of Viet Nam will successfully accomplish the goals and tasks set at the 14th National Congress of the CPV. Xi Jinping emphasized that China and Viet Nam have achieved flourishing growth in all aspects of socialist development, demonstrating the vitality and vigor of the socialist system to the world. China will, as always, attach great importance to the development of China-Viet Nam relations. China is willing to work with Viet Nam to firmly steer the future of socialism, uphold the 16-word guideline of "long-term stability, future orientation, good-neighborly friendship and comprehensive cooperation" and the spirit of "good neighbors, good friends, good comrades and good partners", act in line with the overarching goals characterized by "six mores", implement high-level common understandings, continuously carry forward traditional friendship, deepen exchanges at all levels and cooperation in all fields, properly manage differences, and move forward with great strides in building a China-Viet Nam community with a shared future. Le Hoai Trung conveyed a reply letter of gratitude from General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee To Lam to General Secretary Xi Jinping, along with a verbal message. Le Hoai Trung thanked General Secretary Xi Jinping for taking the time to meet with him, and stated that the 14th National Congress of the CPV has ushered in a new era for Viet Nam's national development. He said that Viet Nam consistently regards consolidating and developing relations with China as the top priority of its foreign policy. Viet Nam is willing to work hand in hand with China on the new journey of development, follow the guidance of the important common understandings reached by the leaders of the two Parties and the two countries, further reinforce the political, material, and public support foundations, elevate Viet Nam-China relations to new heights, and bring more benefits to the people of both countries. Wang Yi attended the meeting. On February 5, 2026, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Laura Fernandez on her election as President of the Republic of Costa Rica. Xi Jinping noted that over the past 18 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Costa Rica, bilateral relations have developed rapidly, with fruitful results in exchanges and cooperation across various fields, effectively enhancing the well-being of the two peoples. Facts have fully proved that the development of China-Costa Rica relations serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, and reflects the prevailing trend of the times and the shared aspiration of the people. Xi Jinping emphasized that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Costa Rica relations and stands ready to work with President Laura Fernandez to strengthen strategic communication, deepen political mutual trust, actively advance cooperation in various fields, and promote the continuous development of bilateral relations on the basis of the one-China principle, so as to deliver greater benefits to the two peoples. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. As I followed a patrol of federal agents around New York Citys Chinatown during their fumbling attempted raid in mid-October last year, I noticed something curious. I was following a small group with the immediately recognizable style of Stephen Millers paramilitaristic vanguard: baggy street clothes, masked faces, weapons, and ballistic vests without specific insignia, just the catchall POLICE or Federal Agent. As we turned one corner, we walked past two other agents dressed much the same, except that one wore a vest that did have agency identification, and it wasnt Immigration and Customs Enforcement or Customs and Border Protection; it read IRS-CI, for the Internal Revenue Services Criminal Investigation division. This is not typically what IRS-CI does. The comparatively small federal law enforcement agency, like the majority of its counterparts, is specialized around one area of enforcement, in this case tasked with investigating criminal violations of the tax codecomplex investigations requiring particularized skills, which is why the IRS own job portal encourages expertise in accounting. It is not part of the Department of Homeland Security or even the Department of Justice, residing under the IRS in the Treasury Department. Yet here was an IRS-CI agent on a foot patrol during a much larger operation that seemed primarily geared toward detaining random men whom agents deemed likely to be African, and she wasnt an anomaly. As a well-placed source confirmed to me contemporaneously, the operation had hastily brought in dozens of agents from ICE, the Drug Enforcement Agency, the FBI, and the IRS, potentially among other agencies. This approach itself is not now abnormal; per figures obtained and published by the Cato Institute last September, an eye-watering 28,390 federal law enforcement personnel as of August had been detailed to ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations, the component that handles immigration arrests and detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 17,500 of these came from either ICEs criminal-focused division, Homeland Security Investigations, or CBP, but that leaves over 10,000 coming from entities that are not focused on immigration enforcement at all. The IRS provided 1,771, which out of a total special agent population of about 2,100, means about 84 percent of its agent workforce was detailed to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations. The DEA provided 3,417, which would be some 70 percent of its special agent workforce. Thousands more came from the FBI; Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; and even the State Departments Diplomatic Security service. This reality has been covered mostly from the standpoint of it taking agents away from crucial other tasks, ranging from child exploitation to financial crimes to drug trafficking (the latter of which notably forms the pretext for a lot of the Trump administrations domestic enforcement push). But it also has some concrete implications for accountability; not only are agents often neither named nor identified, their agencies themselves are unclear. Advertisement Some observers noted that Attorney General Pam Bondi simply referred to federal agents in her X post and subsequent comments on the arrest of several people including journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort last week. In a video Fort posted to Facebook, an agent wearing a DEA vest can be seen peering through her window; its unclear which agency the others belonged to. Advertisement We are no longer talking about individual law enforcement agencies, but rather a giant, singular blob. The burgeoning momentum in what has been a stultified Democratic congressional minoritys effort to rein in some of ICEs actionspartly compelled by public horror at the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapoliswill have to contend with the fact of this blob. Lawmakers have been pushing for the DHS inspector general to probe the agencys use of force, among other things, but will this inquiry encompass abuses potentially committed by other agencies personnel? Whos to say which agency is even involved in any given operation? Advertisement Advertisement Democrats are also now negotiating over (relatively small-bore) constraints like mandating body cameras and limiting masks as they work to hold up DHS funding. They should consider that language too narrowly tailored to ICE and CBP is potentially going to miss DEA agents, for example, detailed to the exact same job. The funding freeze itselfwhich might have limited overall impact in light of the multibillion-dollar orgy of funding already bestowed on ICE in last years so-called Big Beautiful Billwont touch the operations of, say, the Department of Justice, which houses the ATF, Marshals, and Bureau of Prisons, all of which have seen agents deployed with ICE. Advertisement Advertisement This amorphous and ever-shifting group of agents drawn from across the federal government looks increasingly like a catchall national police force operating at the direction of the White House itself, used for diffuse political goals like immigration enforcement, speech crackdowns, and occupying politically oppositional cities. While different federal agencies have long collaborated on joint investigations, this appears to be much more like absorption than collaboration. The underlying agencies still exist, of course, but their agent workforces are substantially or even mostly no longer part of them, instead existing as part of this national police blob. Advertisement This also shifts the question of capacity. ICE has been going on a messy hiring push to try to significantly beef up its numbers, though the results may take a while to fully manifest. Yet this means that, without hiring a single additional recruit, ICE ERO has just about tripled its workforce as its mission keeps shifting to include its general immigration functions plus additional White House priorities. It has been suggested by Steve Bannon and others that Trump would deploy members of this law enforcement blob during Novembers midterms to monitor polling places and potentially intimidate voters. While the administrations pseudo-sieges of cities have the limiting factor of ICEs and CBPs headcount, these are pools of already trained and equipped federal agents that they can draw from other entities to expand this footprint. Advertisement Advertisement They probably already have; though a DOJ attorney told a federal judge that the 3,000-strong surge of agents to the Twin Cities included 2,000 ICE personnel, we dont really know if this includes agents detailed to ICE from other agencies. The administration does not publicly disclose how many agents from which agencies have been reassigned to ICE ERO, nor where theyre deployed or what theyre doing. In the context of agents prowling around cities, arresting people seemingly at random and occasionally killing protesters, the specific seal on any given agents badge might seem inconsequential, but if state authorities and lawmakers want to get serious about oversight and accountability for these authoritarian operations, they will need to understand the scope, nature, and composition of this federal force. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Pete Hegseth, perhaps the most thuggish, toadying, all-around underqualified secretary of defense in the jobs nearly 80-year history, has now shown himself to be the most institutionally destructive as well. His announcement on Friday, that he was cutting the departments ties to Harvard Universityand possibly to other centers of higher learning tooreflects not only a smug anti-intellectualism, which is out of sync with a high-tech modern military, but also a total misunderstanding of how and why its ties to academia first came about. For too long, Hegseth said in a video, this department has sent our best and brightest officers to Harvard, hoping the university would better understand and appreciate our warrior class. Instead, too many of our officers came back looking too much like Harvardheads full of globalist and radical ideologies that do not improve our fighting ranks. We train warriors, not wokesters. Harvard, good riddance. From start to finish, this speech is pure rubbish. The need to broaden the education of Americas warriors was first perceived by Gen. George Marshall, the U.S. Armys chief of staff during World War II (hardly an emblem of woke). Marshall relied heavily on the chief of his Strategy and Policy Group, Brig. Gen. George Lincoln. (I delved into his papers at the West Point Archives for Chapter 1 of my 2013 book The Insurgents: David Petraeus and the Plot to Change the American Way of War.) In the last year of the warat age 37 the Armys youngest general officerLincoln met with Marshall daily, coordinated every major military campaign, and helped draft the treaties at Yalta and Potsdam, which shaped the political map of postwar Europe. He then assisted Marshalls replacement, Gen. Dwight Eisenhower, in creating the Department of Defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The special thing about Lincoln was, after graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1929, he won a Rhodes scholarship and spent the next three years at Oxford, studying philosophy, politics, and economicsthen returned to West Point to teach before getting assigned to high-level staff jobs after WWII broke out. Advertisement While working with Marshall at the various Allied planning conferences, Lincoln noticed that much of the crucial work was done by a handful of fellow military officers, almost all of whom had also been Rhodes scholars. He did a little research and found that West Point had produced 13 Rhodes scholars in its history. Of the six still alive, four were holding senior policy posts, helping set the terms of military strategy and postwar peace treaties. As the war ended, the United States was emerging as a global power with global responsibilities. It would need leaders well versed in politics, diplomacy, economics, and strategy. But few such people existed in or out of the military. Certainly West Point, Lincolns alma mater, wasnt training such people. At the time, all its cadets took the same courses, which focused mainly on engineering. There was a course on bridge building, but no courses on military history. Advertisement Advertisement In May 1945, less than two weeks after the end of the war, Lincoln wrote a letter to one of his mentors back at West Point. I am beginning to think that what we need is a type of staff officer with at least three headsone political, one economic, and one military. In another letter, he proposed baptizing practically all officers with a sprinkling of education in politics, history, and economics, while taking certain selected officers and dunking them in those waters much more deeply. The Army, he continued, can no longer afford to depend on the fortuitous assembly of Rhodes Scholars. There must be an integrated system of high-level training if Army policy and national policy are properly to be served, a system which begins here at West Point. Advertisement Lincoln could easily have gone on to have a storied career, rising through the Armys officer corps. Instead, he returned to West Point to create a new department of social sciences, which would mold this new system. Since regulations required that department heads be colonels, not generals, Lincoln even took a demotion in his rank and was never again promoted. Advertisement He started his new job on Sept. 1, 1947. He and Col. Herman Beukema, his onetime mentor and now the new departments co-founder, created courses in history, government, foreign affairs, geography, national-security economics, and international relations. Lincoln also wrote the nations first college-level textbook on international politics, a reference that was assigned not only at West Point but at several civilian colleges across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Over time, cadets concentrating in social sciences formed an elite enclave, which became an object of resentment and ridicule among some more hidebound officers. As late as 1991, when Gen. Stormin Norman Schwarzkopf returned from his command of Operation Desert Storm to deliver a rousing victory speech at West Point, he reminisced about his own days as a cadet and poked fun at the crazy ideas advanced by a couple of left-wing pinko Social Science instructors. Schwarzkopf was mining a well-known stereotype. (Even at this late date, some of the cadets laughed at and applauded his remark.) He was only half joking, however. Some of his own staff officers had been products of Sosh, the academys nickname for the social sciences department. But Schwarzkopfs jab (minus the humor) is the view that Hegseth now holds of the entire enterprise: seeing war as nothing more than killing. In this view, all other dimensions of warfarethe idea that soldiers should understand the enemy theyre fighting, interpret their tactics in a strategic context, and stay within the confines of international laware not merely secondary but counterproductive, contrary to a warrior spirit, woke. Advertisement Advertisement Lincoln had another purpose in creating the new department. I am certain, he wrote in one letter, that we must make strenuous efforts to improve the so-called Army mind. This would mean, above all, impressing the student with the fact that the basic requirement is to learn to thinksometimes a very painful process. Perhaps more than anything else, this is what Hegseth sees, and fears, in the officers who have earned degrees or fellowships at places like Harvard. This spirit of inquiry, curiosity, and criticism is what he defines as woke. Early on in the development of Sosh, Lincoln put in place a rule allowing cadets who did especially well in his courses to go study at a civilian graduate school, with West Point paying their tuition. In exchange, these cadets, after earning their masters or doctoral degrees, would come back to teach in the Sosh department for at least three years. Once they fulfilled that obligation, Lincoln would use his still-considerable connections in Washington to get them choice assignments in the Pentagon, the State Department, the White House, a foreign embassy, or a prestigious command post. Advertisement Lincoln died in 1975, but the Sosh tradition lived on. Today almost all general officers in the U.S. Army (and also in the Air Force, which was a branch of the Army until 1947, when it became an independent service) hold graduate degreesand most of them, at least the generals I know, are as proud of their degrees as they are of their ranks. Advertisement Advertisement For instance, Gen. David Petraeus, commander of the more successful phases of the war in Iraq, went to West Point, then earned a Ph.D. at Princeton University. Gen. H.R. McMaster, who was a lethal tank commander and a counterinsurgency strategist in Iraq (as well as, briefly, national security adviser during Donald Trumps first term as president), followed a similar path, getting his Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina. Advertisement Maybe Hegseth sees those officers as epitomes of woke. But what about the current chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine, appointed and lauded by Trump and his entire team, including Hegseth? His page on the JCS website states that Caine has completed a range of national security and leadership courses, including Harvard Kennedy Schools course for Senior Executives in National and International Security. Someone should ask Caine, the next time he appears at a press conference or a congressional hearing, whether his spirit and skill as a warrior and a citizen were helped or hindered by his Ivy League exposure. Maybe Hegseth should have asked the questionand maybe he should think and read up even a little bit about a vast range of topics before opening his mouth. As reported recently, FC Barcelona had been in negotiations with companies based out of Dubai and Abu Dhabi over licensing the clubs brand for real estate projects in the Middle East. It is an additional stream of revenue that the Blaugrana board had been exploring in order to further strengthen the clubs economic situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, the Middle East market is considered one of the most strategic areas for the Catalans to continue increasing revenue. Green light for the Dubai project Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, of the two offers received by Barcelona to license their brand in the United Arab Emirates, the Catalan club have ultimately committed to the company Aspin Holdings, which is based in Dubai. The company now plans four residential towers in a luxury area bearing the Barcelona branding, similar to developments that carry the names of Mercedes-Benz and Bugatti, or the shopping centre branded by Louis Vuitton. By contrast, the partnership that is losing momentum and is now close to being ruled out by Barcelona is the proposal from Abu Dhabi, involving a high-end residential complex. Barcelona continue to find ways to boost revenue. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As per the report, there are reasonable doubts within the club about the suitability of that project, as both Chelsea FC and Manchester City are also involved. Barcelona have already received a down payment of between 6-8 million for the agreement with the Dubai real estate project, under which the club will license the Barca brand for a period of between 30 and 40 years. Moreover, the annual income is expected to be around 10 million, and the development will also include a club shop and a small museum. The agreement with Aspin Holdings must be ratified at an Extraordinary General Assembly to be held after the presidential elections on Sunday, 15 March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, this partnership does not require the Aspin Holdings logo, which will front the buildings, to appear on the back of the shirt in place of ACNUR, whose agreement runs until 30 June. That requirement was included in the potential deal with the Abu Dhabi company, which is now a distant prospect for Barcelona. What hot this half term? The best city breaks to visit from the UK City Breaks As the UK shakes off winter, the half term is the perfect excuse for a quick getaway that feels like a reset rather than a full scale holiday. From culture-packed capitals to laid-back coastal cities, warm, walkable short-haul destinations with standout food scenes are drawing travellers keen to make the most of their time away. According to Omios internal data, Malaga was the most booked city for UK holidaymakers in 2025, with bookings up 92% YoY. This was followed closely by Lisbon and Madrid, highlighting a clear shift towards easy, sun-soaked city breaks that combine sightseeing, dining and a change of pace, all within a few hours of the UK. Top 10 most booked cities in SPRING 2025 according to Omio Malaga Lisbon Madrid Paris Milan Rome Venice Barcelona Florence Vienna Malaga, Spain With mild spring temperatures hovering around 20C, Malaga is a brilliant half-term choice for sun without the summer crowds. Spend your days wandering the old town, visiting the Alcazaba fortress, or enjoying long lunches by the sea at La Malagueta beach. Flights from the UK start from 21*, and onward travel across Spain can be easily booked via Omio. Lisbon, Portugal With average temperatures around 1820C, Lisbon is ideal for a spring city break. Spring sunshine makes it perfect for exploring Alfamas historic streets, riding the iconic trams, and enjoying riverfront dining along the Tagus. Flights from the UK start from 41*, and travel across Portugal can be easily booked via Omio. Madrid, Spain Spring is one of the best times to visit Madrid, with average temperatures of 17-22C and plenty of sunshine. The city comes alive with outdoor cafes, green spaces like El Retiro Park, and world class museums including the Prado. Flights from the UK start from 37*, with rail connections across Spain easily bookable via Omio. Paris, France Paris in spring is a classic for a reason. With temperatures around 15-18C, it is ideal for strolling along the Seine, picnicking in the Jardin du Luxembourg, and exploring neighbourhoods like Le Marais and Montmartre. Flights from the UK start from 20*, while Eurostar and onward French rail travel can be booked via Omio. Milan, Italy Milan offers a great spring escape, with temperatures averaging 17-20C and fewer tourists than peak summer. It is the perfect time to explore the Duomo, browse fashion districts, and enjoy aperitivo in Navigli. Flights from the UK start from 17*, with easy rail links across Italy available via Omio. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil For travellers willing to go long haul, Rio de Janeiro offers sunshine, energy and unforgettable scenery, with warm temperatures and slightly lower humidity. From the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, Rio delivers a true escape from the UKs spring chill. Flights from the UK start from 522* and can be compared and booked via Omio. All trips below are bookable via Omio, making planning seamless whether you are flying, taking the train, or combining both. Chinese automotive company XPeng made a big splash last year with its Terminator-like humanoid robot, dubbed Iron. The bipedal robot which features certain eyebrow-raising design choices was seen sauntering across the stage with an impressively lifelike catwalk gait. But the company may have flown a little too close to the Sun. During a similar tech demo at a mall in Shenzhen, China, over the weekend, the robot once again ambled across a marbled floor in front of an eager crowd only to suddenly start twisting its back in an unnatural way before falling over and faceplanting with an audible thud. Footage circulating online shows someone break Irons fall. It eventually took three individuals to drag the 154-pound, five-foot-eight humanoid robot away from the prying eyes of the curious crowd. Some audience members can be heard chuckling to themselves as the robot is carried away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many netizens joked that it was the ultimate proof that Xpengs robot is not, in fact, a human in a costume, as some suspected when its human-like gait was first revealed. Jan 31: XPengs humanoid robot IRON made its street debut at MixC Shenzhen Bay Oops pic.twitter.com/0Uj1BaXznI Byron Wan (@Byron_Wan) January 31, 2026 The damage appears to have been done. As the South China Morning Post reports, footage of Xpengs fumble circulated widely on Chinese social media networks, eventually forcing cofounder and CEO He Xiaopeng to address the situation on Weibo. It reminds me of how all toddlers learn to walk, he wrote in the post, as quoted by the SCMP. After a fall, they will stand firm; the next step is to begin running, and to keep running. The company was clearly rattled by all of the negative press coverage. During the next day of Xpengs marketing campaign, the robot was strapped to a frame, per the newspaper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xpeng is far from alone in struggling to keep its bipedal robots on two feet. Weve seen plenty of other humanoid robots by manufacturers stumble as well. Case in point, one recent viral video appears to show a human teleoperator taking off their headset, causing the Tesla Optimus robot they were controlling to reel back and collapse. In November, a video circulating online showed a Russian humanoid robot, dubbed AIdol, fall while trying to walk across a stage. Other companies have made major strides in keeping their robots upright. Researchers have managed to teach Chinese manufacturer Unitrees popular G1 robot to be extremely resilient, allowing it to survive a lot of abuse, from a direct dropkick to being jerked around by a chain around its neck. Most recently, Unitree had one of its G1 robots map out the Winter Olympics logo by trekking 130,000 steps across a snowy, frozen landscape in Altay prefecture in northern China, as temperatures sank to -52 degrees Fahrenheit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xpeng is hoping to kick off large-scale mass production of its Iron robot before the end of the year stability be damned, apparently. More on Xpeng: Robotics Company Explains Why Its Terminator-Style Robot Features Prominent Bazongas Doosan Vina project in central Vietnam formally taken over by HD Hyundai By Thanh Van, Thai Ha Mon, February 9, 2026 | 10:56 am GMT+7 After nearly two decades of operations at the Dung Quat Economic Zone in Quang Ngai province, central Vietnam, Doosan Enerbility Vietnam (Doosan Vina) has been comprehensively restructured and formally transferred to a new investor - HD Hyundai Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd. The Dung Quat Economic Zone and Quang Ngai Industrial Parks Authority last Friday said that the agency has issued an investment registration license for the Doosan Vina project. HD Hyundai Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd. is a Singapore-registered company whose legal representative is Hong Doohee, a South Korean national. The company is part of HD Hyundai, one of South Koreas leading heavy industry and energy groups. The project will be implemented in Vietnam by HD Hyundai Eco Vina Co. Ltd., which has operated in Quang Ngai province since November 2006. It spans 101 hectares, with about 83.3 hectares set aside for factories, 11.65 hectares for a dedicated port, roughly 2.4 hectares of adjacent water surface, and 4.21 hectares for housing for experts. It aims to establish and operate a large-scale integrated industrial complex at the Dung Quat Economic Zone. The project is fully equipped to design and manufacture products including boilers for thermal power plants, desalination plants, chemical processing equipment, robots, lifting equipment, turbines for power generation, and components for generators. Doosan Enerbility Vietnam (Doosan Vina) is located at Dung Quat Economic Zone in Quang Ngai province, central Vietnam. Photo courtesy of Vietnam News Agency. Following the adjustment, total investment stands at about VND7.54 trillion ($291 million), an increase of more than VND525 billion from the previous level. Of the total, equity capital amounts to around VND5.02 trillion ($193.4 million), accounting for 66.57% of the investment, of which VND4.49 trillion has been contributed. Borrowings total over VND2.52 trillion ($97.11 million) and have been fully arranged. The project has an operating term of 70 years from the date of its initial investment license. Under the plan, new construction and renovation works on the expanded site will complete legal procedures and be carried out between Q3/2025 to Q3/2027. A raft of incentives for investors According to the Dung Quat Economic Zone and Quang Ngai Industrial Parks Authority, the investor will continue to enjoy the incentives and investment support measures stipulated in the previous investment registration license, provided the required conditions are met. Specifically, the project is entitled to a corporate income tax rate of 10% throughout its duration, with a four-year tax holiday from the time taxable income is generated, followed by a 50% reduction in payable tax for the subsequent nine years. The investor is also exempt from land and water surface rental fees for areas used to build factories and the dedicated port and housing for experts, as well as from import duties on goods used for the project in line with current regulations. In addition, the project is eligible for other investment incentives and support measures provided under prevailing laws. At a recent meeting with permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh, Seunghyun Choi, CEO of HD Hyundai Eco Vina, outlined the companys business strategy for the coming period. He said the company plans to hire around 1,500 additional workers on top of the roughly 1,400 employees transferred from Doosan Vina, bringing its total workforce in Vietnam to nearly 3,000. Doosan Vina has been one of Quang Ngai provinces flagship foreign-invested enterprises, with total investment of about $300 million. The complex comprises three factories producing equipment for power plants, port cranes, desalination systems, crude fuel processing equipment, modules, and steel structures. FPT partners with Abu Dhabi-based G42 to develop hyperscale data centers in Vietnam By Minh Hue Mon, February 9, 2026 | 9:07 pm GMT+7 A consortium of FPT Corporation and Viet Thai Group signed a framework agreement with Abu Dhabi-based technology group G42 on Monday to develop hyperscale data centers in Vietnam. Representatives of FPT, Viet Thai Group and G42 sign a framework agreement on development of data centers in Ho Chi Minh City on February 9, 2026. Photo courtesy of the government's news portal. Under the agreement, inked at a conference in Ho Chi Minh City, the parties will develop hyperscale data center infrastructure in Vietnam, leveraging artificial intelligence and cloud computing to serve both domestic and international markets. The partners plan to jointly invest in, build, and operate large-scale, international-standard data centers located in Vietnam, forming a platform to deliver digital technology services to the public sector, enterprises, and international partners. The hyperscale data center project represents a strategic step for Vietnam to deepen its participation in the global digital infrastructure value chain and gradually establish itself as a key regional hub for data and AI. Developed in accordance with international standards, the facilities will meet growing demand for processing and storing massive volumes of data required for AI applications across both public and private sectors. Backed by consumption commitments of up to $1 billion, the partnership marks a significant milestone in Vietnams and the regions digital transformation journey. Through the project, the parties aim to enable global data connectivity and exchange based on principles of safety and trust, while creating favorable conditions for technology companies, startups, and research organizations to collaborate and co-develop solutions. The initiative is expected to create a significant number of high-quality jobs in technology, data, and AI, contributing to digital economic growth and long-term value creation for Vietnam. Through this cooperation, Vietnam has the opportunity to emerge as a major global destination for data and AI infrastructure. Ali Al Amine, chief commercial officer of G42 International, said the framework agreement represents a new model for national AI transformation - one built on sovereignty, partnership, and shared purpose. We are grateful to the Government of Vietnam for its visionary leadership, and to our partners, FPT Corporation and Viet Thai Group, for their commitment to building infrastructure that enables Vietnam to harness AIs full potential while maintaining data sovereignty and digital independence, he said. Chairman of FPT Corporation Truong Gia Binh emphasized that Vietnam clearly understands it cannot advance alone. In areas such as semiconductors, AI, cloud computing, big data, and cybersecurity, we need strategic alliances with trusted partners. Leaders have demonstrated strong commitment, built mutual trust, and now it is time to turn those commitments into real implementation, he said. This initiative positions Vietnam at the forefront of AI-driven economic development in Asia, supporting economic growth and the expansion of the middle class, said David Thai, chairman and CEO of Viet Thai Group. Our partnership with G42 and FPT lays a strong infrastructure foundation for long-term growth and innovation across multiple sectors. G42 is a technology holding group and a global leader in AI, headquartered in Abu Dhabi and operating worldwide. The group champions AI as a force for positive impact across industries and possesses global-scale AI infrastructure deployment capabilities. G42 has directly developed Stargate UAE, a next-generation AI infrastructure cluster with a total capacity of up to 1 GW, supporting national- and global-scale AI computing needs. FPT is a global technology conglomerate headquartered in Vietnam, providing services in information technology, telecommunications, and digital transformation. Its two AI factories, located in Japan and Vietnam, ranked 36th and 38th respectively in the TOP500 High Performance Computing systems announced in June 2025, reinforcing Vietnams technological capabilities and FPTs position on the global AI landscape. Founded in 1998, Viet Thai Group is one of Vietnams largest consumer and retail operators, managing a diverse portfolio of brands across coffee, food and beverage, and fast-moving consumer goods. Its network includes more than 2,000 retail outlets operating in 30 countries. Bernie Sanders and Ron DeSantis dont agree on much, but the data-center boom is a rare exception. Vermonts Democratic Socialist senator and Floridas right-wing governor want to slam the brakes on the hundreds of resource-intensive new facilities springing up across the country to power the artificial intelligence industry. And both point to profits, not the public good, as the real factor motivating the boom. In many ways, the convergence was inevitable. Public wariness about the data-center industry is growing, and politicians could no longer ignore the outcry. Public skepticism of AI is also ubiquitous. Merriam-Webster chose slop as its 2025 word of the year because, at the same time AI is enabling telemedicine and driving cars, its also spreading fake news, nonconsensual nudified images and synthetic propaganda. So when two politicians representing two ideological extremes start sounding alike, maybe its time to listen. In December, DeSantis convened a roundtable discussion to highlight the growing threat of AI. What we dont want to do is be subsidizing or put a thumb on the scale for technologies that are going to supplant the human experience, he said. He called for an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights to safeguard data privacy, parental controls and consumer protections. And he backed legislation that requires data centers to pay the full cost of their energy and water use and allows local communities to stop data-center construction that doesnt mesh with their growth plans. You should not have to pay one dime more in utility costs, water, power, any of this stuff, because these are some of the most wealthy companies in the history of humanity, he argued. DeSantis had convened the roundtable just days after the Trump administration issued an executive order seeking to limit state-level AI regulations, warning that a patchwork of 50 different regulatory regimes could hinder US competitiveness with China. But DeSantis challenged Trumps justification for the data center expansion, arguing that the tech industry is motivated to accelerate AI growth with its fake songs and fake videos because it is driven primarily by profits. Their goal is not to beat China, he said. DeSantis comments were remarkably similar to those made by Sanders just weeks before. Sanders had released a report that raised questions about the industrys impact on American jobs, the economy and young people. It concluded: Technology can and should improve the lives of working people. But it will not happen if decisions are made in boardrooms by billionaires who only care about short-term profits. Sanders has also joined environmentalists and called for Congress to pass a moratorium on building new data centers. I think youve got to slow this process down, he said. Both are right. The bipartisan distrust of this industry gives politicians a rare leverage point to push back against the Trump-aligned tech bros and start asking some serious questions about the AI arms race. What is the goal? How much generative AI is necessary? Does America really need AI-generated slop? And isnt it time to put some quality controls on these resource-consuming giants? For years, the nations tech companies have quietly gone about signing nondisclosure agreements and lobbying elected officials to build data centers to power their AI technology with little regard for the cost and impact on the public. But when the nonstop low-frequency hums from the buildings started to annoy people in neighboring residential communities, when electric bills started to rise for homeowners and small businesses, and when local water resources started to strain from the cooling demands of the massive computers, public protests got louder. Politicians started getting voted out of office. And the industry started to wise up. To say data centers are unpopular right now is probably an understatement, to say the least, Dan Diorio, vice president of state policy for the Data Center Coalition, told a Florida legislative committee in December. Diorio represents tech giants like Meta, Alphabet and Amazon Web Services, and is making the rounds to statehouses across the country as lawmakers file bills to impose new rules on the companies. Arizona, Georgia, Maryland and Michigan legislators are considering bills to repeal data-center tax incentives. Georgia, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Arizona are advancing bills to prohibit data centers from entering into nondisclosure agreements that hide details of the development plans from the public. Eleven states are considering legislation to require utility regulators to develop a new rate class so that data centers foot the bill for their power needs. And lawmakers in Georgia, Oklahoma, Vermont and Virginia have proposed moratoriums on new data-center construction. But politicians dont move as fast as tech companies, and in many ways, the industry is already several steps ahead of them. At hearings before Florida legislators, data-center developers testified that many companies are bypassing their water challenges by moving to cooling systems that use closed-loop water technology to reduce massive water consumption. But because demand isnt slowing for the build-out of centers that use 500 megawatts or more of energy a day enough to power a mid-sized city getting sufficient energy supplied in a timely manner, regardless of the environmental implications, is now the industry priority, according to a report last month from industry-focused Data Center Frontier. Plans are emerging in Florida, for example, to build self-sufficient energy centers using turbines that burn greenhouse gas-emitting natural gas. Developers said the industry is also working on developing small modular nuclear reactions to power data centers. (NPR reported recently that the Trump administration has secretly rewritten environmental, safety and security rules to allow for development of the experimental reactors.) The energy appetite is insatiable. According to BloombergNEF, data centers energy demand will triple in a decade from 34.7 gigawatts in 2024 to 106 gigawatts by 2035. Thats the equivalent of powering more than 80 million homes. In many ways, states created this monster. Lured by the economic development potential of the tech industry, state and local governments for years have offered tax breaks to the industry without managing the impact they would have on their energy grid, especially during peak demand. For his part, DeSantis has hardly been consistent on this issue. Last June, he signed a major tax-relief bill that extended the deadline to apply for Floridas tax credit for data centers from 2027 to 2037. Even as he says he wants to slow data center development in his state, hes giving the industry a tax break to encourage it. Its classic hypocrisy. Perhaps DeSantis now sees the error of his ways. A version of his bill giving local communities control of their data center fate is moving through the Florida legislature although it inexplicably gives data centers a one-year exemption from public records requirements. Hopefully, other state and local officials will also listen to the public outcry, put the brakes on data centers, and take a more measured path forward. They ignored you, is now an easy campaign slogan. Even AI could write it. (TBTCO) - Can cu ket qua giam sat, kiem tra, ngay 12/02/2026, Uy ban Chung khoan Nha nuoc (UBCKNN) a ban hanh Quyet inh so 89/Q-XPHC ve viec xu phat vi pham hanh chinh oi voi ba Bui Thi Phuong Thuy (ia chi: so 162 uong Phu My, phuong Tu Liem, thanh pho Ha Noi) do co hanh vi thao tung thi truong chung khoan. Kyiv pivots toward Belaruss democratic opposition as Russia tightens its control on Minsk, signaling a broader push for European leadership. From the Atlantic Council. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy held his first official meeting with exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on 25 January during a visit to Vilnius. Their meeting was the latest indication of a significant policy shift underway in Ukraine toward the countrys northern neighbor that could have implications for the wider region. For years, Zelenskiy had kept the Belarusian democratic opposition at arms length as part of Ukrainian efforts to avoid angering Belarusian dictator Alyaksandr Lukashenka and pushing him further toward the Kremlin. That approach has brought few benefits. Ukraine now appears to have recognized that a new strategy to bilateral relations may be more appropriate. The Vilnius meeting did not come as a complete surprise. Days earlier in Davos, Zelenskiy had identified Belaruss 2020 pro-democracy protests as a turning point for the region and a missed opportunity for Europe. The Ukrainian leader argued that the democratic world made a mistake by failing to support nationwide protests in Belarus. As a result, the country now poses a threat to all Europe and serves as a forward base for Russias hybrid war against the West. During his recent visit to Lithuania, Zelenskiy addressed the Belarusian people directly and expressed his support for their European future. He also met with recently released Belarusian political prisoners and paid tribute to Belarusian volunteers serving alongside Ukrainian forces in the fight against Russias invasion. Ukrainian officials have recently made clear that Lukashenka and his regime must be held accountable for complicity in Russias aggression. Meanwhile, in a further indication that Ukraine is moving toward more systemic engagement with the Belarusian democratic opposition, plans have emerged to potentially appoint a special envoy and host Tsikhanouskaya in Kyiv. Some analysts believe this recent change in tone toward Belarus may reflect the growing influence of former Ukrainian spymaster Kyrylo Budanov, who was recently appointed as President Zelenskiys new chief of staff. Budanov has long been involved in contacts with the Belarusian side and helped facilitate the transfer of released political prisoners to Ukraine in December 2025. Kyivs apparent pivot may also reflect the fact that Russias military footprint in Belarus continues to grow. Ukrainian officials claim Russia uses Belarus to conduct drone attacks on Ukraine and evade air defenses. Lukashenka recently announced the deployment of nuclear-capable Russian Oreshnik missiles to Belarus, which Zelenskiy described as a threat to both Ukraine and the European Union. Lukashenkas Balancing Act Falters Meanwhile, Russias integration of the Belarusian military industrial complex continues, with up to 80% of Belarusian enterprises reportedly now engaged in production for Russias military needs. Belarus has been accused of supplying ammunition, providing repair services for Russian equipment, and channeling sanctioned technology to Russian defense companies. Lukashenka is understandably eager to distance himself from any direct ties to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the available evidence indicates that his regime is becoming more deeply embedded in the Kremlin war effort. This is the reality confronting the Ukrainian authorities. As long as Belarus remains firmly under Kremlin control, it will continue to pose a serious security threat along Ukraines northern border. Europe should be paying particular attention to indications of a new Ukrainian approach to Belarus. As U.S. foreign policy priorities shift, the responsibility for managing relations between Belarus and the West will increasingly fall on the European Union. EU officials must decide between freezing the Belarus issue or recognizing the country as a strategic challenge that requires European leadership. Belarus has most recently made headlines due to a series of prisoner releases tied to partial U.S. sanctions relief. The humanitarian impact of these deals should not be underestimated, but it is also important to underline that more than one thousand Belarusian political prisoners remain incarcerated. Some skeptics have argued that without a broader strategy, reducing sanctions pressure on Minsk in exchange for prisoner releases risks strengthening the current regime and reinforcing an oppressive system that imprisons political opponents. This presents opportunities for Europe to demonstrate its ability to take the lead on the international stage. While the United States seeks practical short-term results such as the release of political prisoners, Europe can push for more systemic change and democratic transition in Belarus. In this context, sanctions should be seen as a tool to undermine authoritarian rule rather than locking in the current status quo. This can be achieved by closing existing loopholes while targeting the revenue streams and logistical networks that sustain the Lukashenka regime and support the Russian war machine. In the current geopolitical climate, any talk of a neutral Belarus is delusional. Lukashenka will not turn away from his patrons in the Kremlin voluntarily. If European policymakers wish to see genuine change in Belarus, they will need to demonstrate a readiness to increase the pressure on Minsk. The enticing prospect of future European integration can play a crucial role in these efforts. Belarus now occupies a strategic position in Europes rapidly shifting security landscape. The country remains deeply involved in Russias invasion of Ukraine and also represents a key challenge for European leaders as they seek to prove that the continent is capable of defending itself in an era when U.S. support can no longer be taken for granted. The Ukrainian authorities clearly feel the time is right for a more proactive approach to Belarus. The question now is whether Europe will follow suit. Hanna Liubakova is a journalist from Belarus and nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, where this article originally appeared. Republished by permission. From the pasta-eating mistake of cutting your noodles to getting side-eyed for ordering a cappuccino after morning passes, vacationers have been bumbling their way through Italy since travel here began centuries ago. But one cultural misunderstanding seems to have exploded on the internet in recent years: the purpose of the infuriatingly small, seemingly pointless napkins (called tovagliolini) that come in dispensers dotting the tables of cafes, bars, pastry shops, and gelaterias across the country. Created from cellulose, and made water-resistant with polyamide-epichlorohydrin resin (PAE), these flimsy square sheets feel plasticky and aren't absorbent making them completely ineffective for wiping your hands or cleaning up a mess. This issue has drawn the ire of many a tourist to Italy, even popping up on Q&A threads on Quora and various subreddits. One Quora user complained, "Why are napkins in cafes in Portugal and Italy so useless? They are hard and don't absorb anything like traditional ones." And Redditor u/Ziopover asked, "We're talking about those little napkins that are on the counter in every bar... but what the hell are they for?" It probably won't surprise you to learn that, once again, tourists have gotten it wrong: these "useless" napkins aren't what you think they are. They're made for picking up pastries rather than cleaning. As Italy-based digital creator @ciaraswalsh explains, "These are not napkins that will just soak up water [as they have] like a waxy consistency to them. They're actually used to be picking up your cornetto or brioche ... so you don't dirty your hands." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Rick Steves' Most And Least Favorite Places In Europe How to properly use tovagliolini in Italy A woman enjoys a hot cup of coffee and a pastry for breakfast at a cafe in Cremona, Italy. - columbo.photog/Shutterstock The reason these napkins have been designed as such is to prevent them from sticking to the food (and vice versa). Pastries are typically covered with jam, sugar, icing, and other delicious yet sticky ingredients. And Italians take their food culture seriously, so the last thing they'd want is for their breakfast to be ruined by having the toppings come off on the napkin or having bits of paper stuck to it. To use the tovagliolini as intended, take one out of the dispenser and grab the pastry with it, ensuring that your fingers don't touch your food. Wrap it around the bottom end of your pastry, covering it completely so it can be easily held. Now you can enjoy your cornetto (a crescent-shaped breakfast pastry) and coffee while your hands stay clean and dry. If so many tourists are confused about the true purpose of tovagliolini, though, you may be wondering why there aren't signs or pictures on the dispensers. Well, this is just one of many unwritten rules you should know before visiting Italy. You might also question why cafes and bars in Italy don't stock larger, absorbent napkins on the tables alongside these mini-wipes. Cost is one reason tovagliolini are much cheaper to produce and may even be provided by the cafe's coffee company. It could also boil down to simple cultural differences perhaps North Americans are just messier eaters than their European counterparts. Keep in mind, if you are using the napkin as intended, your fingers shouldn't get dirty, as they won't be touching the pastry at all. But you can always run to the bathroom to wash your face and hands after eating, or simply ask the staff for traditional napkins, if needed. Problem solved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter and add us as a preferred search source for access to the world's best-kept travel secrets. Read the original article on Islands. Dame Esther Rantzen plans to go to Dignitas if the pain from her lung cancer becomes "unbearable". Dame Esther Rantzen could end her life at Dignitas The 85-year-old presenter has been a vocal advocate for assisted dying since being diagnosed with a terminal form of the disease in 2023 and explained that she is contemplating ending her life at the Swiss clinic should things become too painful, as she hit out at the House of Lords for delaying the assisted dying bill. Esther told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "I am still planning to go alone to Dignitas if my life becomes unbearable. Even if the new Bill became Law, it could not apply to me because I am rapidly running out of time. "But I really feel our law makers will be letting down generations of terminally ill patients in the future if they fail to reform the current cruel, messy, criminal law." The Terminally ill adults (End of Life) bill was passed by the House of Commons last June but has been held up in the Lords, where peers have tabled more than 1,000 amendments. It will fail if it is not given final assent prior to the King's Speech in May although campaign group Dying in Dignity has launched a petition to make sure the Government allows enough time to ensure that the public's wishes are carried out. Esther said: "I wish this petition every success, and I hope the House of Lords are paying attention to it." The Childline founder added: "I am profoundly disappointed by the filibustering and unashamed sabotage going on in the House of Lords to block the Bill. "They have no interest in improving the Law, which is their democratic duty. A handful of them simply want to block the Bill for their own personal reasons and sadly it looks as if they will succeed." Rantzen's daughter Rebecca Wilcox explained that the family didn't wade into the assisted dying debate for the sake of the former That's Life! presenter. The 46-year-old presenter explained: "Mum has the privilege, if that's the word, to be able to go to Dignitas and so many people don't. "I know from watching dad die, and I know from friends of mine who have died during this campaign that the fear of death and the after effects of my family that witnessed it are indelible, long-lasting, traumatic and avoidable. That's the worst bit. It's all avoidable." I note with interest your report in the Sunday Express, February 8, on the comments made by the CEO of the Agostini Group. He touted the achievements of this Group through hard work, resilience and creativity. He recalled the ways in which Agostini built a family business over the last 100 years to its current position as a regional conglomerate. ON THE WAY: The cargo vessel the MV Blue Wave Harmony. This Valentines Day weekend, four local nonprofits are spearheading The Desert Gold Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk to show love to kids battling cancer and their families. Bald Beauties Project, Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern Arizona, Courtneys Courage and Lainys Light are teaming up to stage the inaugural event, which begins at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3482 E. River Road. All of us have been touched by childhood cancer in one way or another. It has had a significant impact on our lives and we want to make sure people are aware that cancer is the number one cause of death by disease for children in Arizona, said Maya Luria, co-founder of the Bald Beauties Project. Conceived by Mayas daughter, Kelsey Taylor Luria, who succumbed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2015, the organization provides photo shoots and professional portraits for children, teens and young adults undergoing cancer treatments and their families. Maya said that promoting awareness about the far-reaching impact of pediatric cancer and raising funds for much-needed support and wrap-around services is the impetus for the event. Last year in Tucson alone, 10 children died of cancer and no one really knows that fact," said Beverley Tidwell, CEO of Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern Arizona. "If one child dies of measles or the flu in Pima County, it will be a major news item ... but cancer is very poorly represented in the childhood medical realm. "We are coming together to fight for advocacy and make childhood cancer more visible. All of our programs are reliant on funding and we want to raise awareness and funding levels to make childhood cancer a more tangible, understood experience in the general population." Candlelighters offers a range of financial assistance and resources (assistance with rent, utilities, car repairs and more) for families of children undergoing treatment at Banner Childrens at Diamond Childrens Medical Center. It also stages an annual prom and Gift Wish Holiday Party and other events for patients; Annual Family Camps; Youth and Sibling Support Programs, and various support groups for parents and families. Tidwell and her family benefitted from Candlelighters advocacy and support during the seven years that her late son, William, battled cancer. It taught me a lot about insurance advocacy, physician advocacy and treatment advocacy, said Tidwell, who is determined to expand awareness about the many resources and programs available to pediatric cancer patients and their families. For more than 25 years, Courtneys Courage has served as one of those resources. Founded in memory of Courtney Zillman, the foundation has funneled more than $1 million into pediatric cancer research including neuroblastoma at the University of Arizona Steele Childrens Research Center. The funding has served as seed money to attain large grants for additional research from the National Institutes of Health and other institutions, according to Kathy Zillman-Ogden, Courtneys mom and ambassador of Courtneys Courage. Courtneys Courage also offers support and camaraderie for families through Moms Dinners, an annual Southwest Hope & Healing Bereavement Retreat and other events. Newly-diagnosed children and their siblings receive support through customized, themed Courtneys Paks and Courtneys Sibling Paks. A range of financial assistance and other resources are also available. Zillman-Ogden is proud of the growing collaboration between Courtneys Courage and like-minded nonprofits. We have some overlap, but we each have exclusive services that we provide," Zillman-Ogden said. "We are not competitive. We help each other and put our heads together, and the needs of families are covered pretty well between all of us. We can cover a lot more ground when organizations work together." The Lainys Light Foundation further helps ease the pediatric cancer burden by providing comfort, compassion and connection. The foundation was inspired by Alaina Lainy Sharpe, who lost her battle against mesenchymal chondrosarcoma last year at age 14. It was a dream of our daughters to have this foundation and we picked up where she left off ... she had it in her heart to help others in the same situation. She wanted to create comfort bags that contained things that she felt she couldnt live without during her cancer journey, said Angelica Sharpe, Lainys mother. Items listed under Notes in Lainys phone essentials for nausea, antibacterial wipes, gift cards and moreare incorporated with personalized items identified for each child by their social worker into Duffel-sized comfort bags and smaller car kits. The bags are valued at $200 to $300 each and are convenient for children to take to the hospital or clinic or to carry when they are out. The foundation also offers monthly financial sponsorship including rent, utilities, groceries, or other basic needs to a family in need. Lainy wanted to give a little happiness. She was a recipient of some bags and the ones she loved the most asked about specifically what she liked ... we are not all the same and we want kids to remember that you are still you. Cancer doesnt define you, said Angelica. She encourages the public to support the upcoming fundraiser and come together for children in treatment and their families, who can expect a safe and comfortable day of fun. Tucson is a really tight-knit community, but before our daughter was diagnosed, I had no idea of everything happening here to support kids with cancer, and I wish I had known," said Angelica. "I am grateful to be part of it even though it was a tragedy in the end for us. It was an eye-opening experience and I would like there to be more opportunities for people to learn about what is going on in Tucson." CNN and Tucson's KGUN News reported a purported ransom note sent to KGUN last week demanded that Nancy Guthrie's family pay a $6 million ransom by 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9. Authorities have not said whether they were taking that letter to KGUN seriously or whether they think it could be authentic. KGUN emphasized in an article on its website that investigators also had not confirmed the dollar figure it included. The station reported the letter contained a threat on the missing woman's life. An X post about the details from the note has since been deleted. This comes as the Pima County Sheriff's Department said Sunday that investigators still had not identified any suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles connected to the case. The department said it will maintain a presence at Guthrie's house for security purposes, at the family's request. Detectives and agents continue to conduct follow-up investigation at multiple locations but will not release details, the sheriff's department said. Guthrie, a retired University of Arizona communications professional known for community leadership, is believed to have been abducted in the early morning hours Feb. 1 from her longtime home near North Campbell Avenue and East Skyline Drive, authorities have said. Her adult children said Saturday they would pay ransom for her return. NBC "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, holding hands with her sister Annie and brother Camron in a video posted to her Instagram account Saturday afternoon, said "we will pay" after receiving a message purported to be from a kidnapper or kidnappers. "We received your message and we understand," Savannah Guthrie said in the brief video. "We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us and we will pay." A spokesman for the FBI office in Phoenix, Kevin Smith, told the Associated Press she was referring to a message sent Friday to Tucson television station KOLD. The alleged ransom message was one of several sent to media outlets during the week and forwarded to the Sheriff's Department and the FBI. Investigators have said at least one message contained information not widely known to the public. They have not said what monetary figure was demanded, nor what was threatened if the deadlines stated in one note Thursday, Feb. 4, and Monday, Feb. 9 were not met. Separately from the ransom note(s) being taken seriously, a fake ransom demand sent to two Guthrie family members resulted in the arrest of a California man, authorities said Thursday. In other updates Sunday: The Arizona Republic, citing reporting by Fox News and ABC 15, reported that investigators pulled off a manhole cover, apparently for a septic tank or similar system, at Nancy Guthrie's house on Sunday. Sheriffs Department spokesperson Angelica Carrillo said she could not confirm details of the activity because the investigation is active, The Republic said. At a service Sunday at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, where Nancy Guthrie attended for many years, the congregation prayed for her and lead pastor Rev. Dr. John Tittle spoke about forgiveness, The Republic reported. Right now, we are heartbroken about the inhumanity and the evil done to Nancy and her family. What do we do? Tittle said, going on to address the challenge of "the journey of forgiveness." Digital billboards showing Nancy Guthrie are now up in Houston, NBC affiliate KPRC-TV there reported, citing information from FBI Houston. El Paso, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Antonio, Dallas and Albuquerque will also get digital billboards related to the search as the FBI expands the search, the station reported. It said Tucson will not get them because of lack of infrastructure for digital billboards. Investigators urge anyone with information about the Guthrie case to call 1-800-CALL-FBI. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's recovery and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. Pioneering homesteader Leonard G. Wagner who has a new street named after him in Vail worked in mining, law enforcement and railroading in Pantano, Vail, Helvetia and Tucson starting in about 1900. The son of a carpet weaver, he was born around 1869 in Wisconsin or possibly Germany. By 1891, while residing in La Crosse, Wisconsin, he had joined with Otto Bauer to establish the Bauer & Wagner saloon. After that he worked as a teamster for J. Paul L. Company, which was his job at the time of his marriage. Wagner married Mary Lillian "Lillie" Chase on March 21, 1896, at the St. Johannes German Reformed Church in La Crosse. He would adopt his wife's four sons from her previous marriage to lumberman John William McCulloch: Arthur, born in 1876; Charles, born in 1883; Harry, born in 1884; and Norman, who came along in about 1894. Harry and Norman took on Wagner's last name, while Charles and Arthur kept their biological father's surname, McCulloch. The couple apparently no longer wanted to stay in Wisconsin and by June 1900, Wagner and family were in Arizona, residing in Pantano (now a ghost town), which was little more than a railroad town in the middle of the desert southeast of Vail. By 1907, Wagner was employed by The Verde Queen Mining Co. as superintendent of a lead mine about 12 miles from Pantano. The lead ore was hauled over the old stage road to Pantano Station and then sent by train to the smelter in Deming, New Mexico. Three years later, records show the family living in the Pantano Precinct, although they are believed to have been temporarily residing and working as teamsters in mining towns in the area such as Helvetia, Total Wreck and maybe Greaterville. In 1911, Wagner for the first known time worked as an election official, a side job he would participate in for many more years. His main job continued to be in mining, though. By late 1912, Wagner was manager of the United Mining and Smelting Co. located in the Helvetia Mining District in the Santa Rita Mountains. The family by this time likely had moved their permanent residence from Pantano to Vail. In 1912, Charles E. McCulloch wed Nicola Celaya in Tucson and began a family there. Later they would move to Vail. Two years later Norman Wagner married Juanita Leon and set up home in Vail also. By mid-1914, Wagner had switched careers and was a station engineer at the Vail Train Station. The following year he filed for a 320-acre homestead that would one day be bisected by the railroad track and Mary Ann Cleveland Way in Vail. Part of this land is located caddy corner from the present-day Vail Unified School District Transportation Department on the north side of M.A.C. Way. By 1917, he was serving as a Pima County deputy sheriff in Vail. On one occasion he was one of the first persons on the scene of an accident of a man who had been sleeping on the railroad track and had been decapitated. Most days involved less exciting or gruesome work, such as recovering stolen cars. During the 1920s, Wagner's role as a deputy seems to have expanded and he traveled all over Pima County including places that no longer exist including Silver Bell (now a ghost town) and Postvale (now part of Marana). By 1930, however, he was running a store and service station in Vail and was also serving on the Vail School Board. His time as a merchant came to an end soon after when he was rehired by the Sheriffs Department, as a jailor. Wagner and Lillie also likely spent family time at the small adobe house located near the now-historic Vail post office and the Shrine of the Santa Rita in the Desert Church, both on Colossal Cave Road and Old Vail Road of son Norman and daughter-in-law Juanita. This house also had an outdoor platform, a concrete slab, near it where every Saturday night, locals like Jimmy Leon and his friends would play their guitars and sing and the community danced the night away. At other times, Norman would strum his guitar and his children would play other instruments on this concrete slab that still exists today. When Wagner and Lillie visited their son they likely ate a lot of pinto beans since economic times were tough; they may also have enjoyed a family dish comprised of cottontail rabbit, fried potatoes and homemade tortillas. Late in the year, Juanitas red chile tamales came to life. She began making these locally famous tamales before Dec. 12th because it was something that could be warmed easily as the Mexican-American community gathered to celebrate the feast day for the Virgin of Guadalupe. During Christmas time, the tamales became gifts. By 1933 if not sooner, Wagner and Lillie had relocated to Tucson. In 1938, Lillie would pass away at home and in 1950 Wagner died of a heart attack while shopping at a local store. In 2025, Brittany Butler, of K.B. Home in Tucson, asked the author of this Street Smarts column in the Star for suggestions for a street name for the company's new subdivision, The Landing at Rancho del Lago, located along Mary Ann Cleveland Way. Since the piece of property for the new subdivision located caddy corner from the Vail school district's transportation department was part of Leonard Wagners homestead, his name was suggested and the result is Wagner Street. KB Homes The Landing at Rancho del Lago subdivision will feature 61 homesites. Model homes will be open for tours this spring. Emmerdales Isabel Hodgins is ready to leave the ITV soap. Isabel Hodgins is 'ready' to leave Emmerdale The 32-year-old actress has starred in the programme as Victoria Sugden since 2006, but Hodgins will be exiting Emmerdale as she awaits the arrival of her first child with her husband Adam Whitehead. During an interview with The Sun newspaper, she said: I thought I would be really emotional when I filmed my final scenes. Emmerdale is all I have ever known. But pregnancy does funny things to you and the truth is I felt ready not to have to film on Emmerdale! I live in Manchester and Ive been driving over to Leeds to film. By the end, I felt exhausted and I knew it was time to have a rest before the baby arrives. Isabel revealed she filmed her final scenes for the soap in December, and has been preparing for the big day with her husband since. She said: It suddenly feels very real now. I am so excited about becoming a mum for the first time and this will be, by far and away, my biggest role Ive ever had. Adam is going to be a great dad. He pours his heart into everything he does and we both feel so lucky to be having a child. In Emmerdale, Victoria murdered her serial killer brother John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) during the programmes crossover with Coronation Street, and Victorias fate will be revealed during Thursdays (12.02.26) episode. Isabel said: Victoria is ready to lay on her sword. She has killed John and she is bogged down with so much guilt - especially as Moira has been like a mother figure towards her. She is in a total mess. Does she go away and start a new life or does she do the honourable thing and turn herself in? I am not going to spoil what happens but Victoria will definitely be leaving the soap thats because I am having a baby in real life! Even so, Isabel stressed she has been given the option to return to Emmerdale in the future. She said: They told me it was up to me when I come back to the soap, which is lovely. Ive been in Emmerdale for 19 years and its been a huge part of my life. Everyone has been so nice. Another Brady leaves 10 jungle First it was 'Marcia,' then 'Greg Brady' bids farewell to 10 reality series, both having impressed their camp mates. For the second time in its history, a Brady Bunch original cast member has departed Im A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. Barry Williams, aka Greg Brady, was eliminated in a challenge against former Neighbours and Home & Away star, Rebekah Elmaloglou. I embraced every single part of it from the very beginning. This was my dream, and this opportunity came and I just jumped at it its everything I could have hoped for, he told hosts Julia Morris & Robert Irwin. Indeed the famed Brady star, 71, was embraced by his Australian campmates for his relaxed and gentle demeanour, imparting showbiz stories and participating fully in trials, dubbed an honourary Australian by his peers. That included gruelling water trials and horrendous eating challenges, even volunteering to eat a dish of pigs brain. I have a wonderful son at home who is 23, and a daughter who is 14, and I couldnt let them down, right? And then there was no looking back. He was the second Brady Bunch star in the 10 series, following Maureen McCormick, aka Marcia Brady in S1 back in 2015 (she finished fifth). On this occasion Barry Williams was supporting WIRES, Australias largest wildlife rescue organisation. I know that down in Melbourne they had a couple of really catastrophic fires. WIRES was right there, very involved and thats when you need an organisation to come in and be helpful, he said. Call for Entries: SBS Media Sustainability Challenge 500,000 advertising inventory on offer as SBS spreads the message on sustainable behaviour and better environmental practices. SBS has opened applications for the SBS Media Sustainability Challenge, again encouraging brands to normalise sustainable behaviour and environmental practices for a $500,000 advertising inventory. Kate Young, National Manager of SBS CulturalConnect, said: We have had so much positive feedback from the market about the SBS Media Sustainability Challenge and are thrilled that it is back for another exciting year. Last year we were inundated with some great ideas and campaigns and were so pleased that more of these creative ideas will have an opportunity in this years challenge. At its heart, the campaign is asking brands and agencies to work with us to drive positive change to protect our planet by rethinking how they authentically represent sustainability in their marketing campaigns. SBS has been a clear leader in this space working to reduce our environmental footprint, but we know change only comes about when our industry collaborates. Through this initiative, were helping build a platform to elevate creative ideas that normalise sustainable practices to Australian audiences. The challenge is open for submissions until 6 March. Brands and agencies are asked to go online and submit a 30-second television script and 500-word rationale addressing the judging criteria. In 2026, the challenge has been updated to ask brands to focus on one of three areas: NATURE How your brand protects and restores the natural environment. CARBON How your brand reduces carbon emissions. WASTE How your brand minimises waste through sustainable practices or innovations. The jury will judge the script and rationale, with entries to be shortlisted in March and a final winner announced in the second half of 2026. This is such a strong opportunity for brands, many of whom are already doing great work in this space, to produce something really creative and interesting that will get noticed and help spark positive conversation around sustainable behaviours, said Young. SBS confirmed the jury for the SBS Media Challenge would consist of: Adam Liaw, host of The Cook Up and Co-Chair of Sustainable Screens Australia; Arum Nixon, Australia Chapter Lead at Ad Net Zero; Abigail Thomas, SBS Head of Sustainability; Kate Young National Manager, SBS CulturalConnect and Angus Gordon, SBS Head of Creative & Production Services CulturalConnect The winning ad will also receive consulting services and training through Sustainable Screens Australia to help ensure the advertisement meets best practice for sustainable production. sbsmedia.com.au/sustainability-challenge Rated 0 out of 5 Rated 0 out of 5 Media Watch: Feb 9 Tonight, the alleged Australia terror attack that almost barely caused a whimper. Did the media miss the story? Tonight on Media Watch hosted by Linton Besser. Silent bomb: The alleged Australia terror attack that almost barely caused a whimper. Did the media miss the story? The radio doctor quietly profiting from the supplement he promotes on air. Plus The Art of Distraction by Andrew Hastie. 9:18pm tonight on ABC. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's links to Jeffrey Epstein are being investigated by specialist prosecutors amid reports the disgraced royal shared confidential documents with Epstein when he was the UKs trade envoy. Emails released by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier this month appear to show the disgraced former royal sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and trade talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One email, dated 30 November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent it by his then-special adviser, Amir Patel, the DOJ's latest release of the Epstein files shows. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew appears to have looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. On 9 February, Thames Valley Police said it was assessing these reports. On Wednesday (11 February), it confirmed it had brought in specialist crown prosecutors from the CPS in relation to the Epstein files. "We can confirm today (11/2) that Thames Valley Police is leading the ongoing assessment of allegations relating to misconduct in public office," Thames Valley Police told Yahoo News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As part of this assessment, we have engaged in discussions with Specialist Crown Prosecutors from the CPS. "During an assessment phase, information is evaluated to determine whether a criminal offence is suspected and whether a full investigation is required. "Allegations of misconduct in public office involve particular complexities, and therefore an assessment must be conducted carefully and thoroughly." Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing in relation to his friendship with Epstein. Yahoo News has contacted him for comment. What do the emails in the Epstein files say? An email dated 30 November 2010 was forwarded by the then-duke just five minutes after being sent it by Amir Patel, according to the latest tranche of documents released by the DOJ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The email included attached reports on Andrew's visits to Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong and Shenzhen in China. The sender, listed only as "The Duke", appears to have passed on these documents in the email forwarded to Epstein. An email forwarded to Epstein by a contact listed as 'The Duke'. (US Department of Justice) Another email, sent on Christmas Eve 2010, appears to show Andrew passing as an attachment a "confidential brief" on investment opportunities in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. At this point, the region was overseen by British Armed forces and development was heavily funded by UK public money. Although Andrew's full email address is not shown in the DOJ's release, it does include a signature at the bottom, reading "HRH the Duke of York KG". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Duke" says he is going to offer these opportunities "elsewhere in my network", including in Abu Dhabi, but would be interested to hear Epstein's thoughts, according to the emails. "I have sadly already found out that Gates Foundation doesn't do anything in Afghanistan," he added. At this time Helmand Province was overseen by British Armed Forces and propped up by UK taxpayers' money. (US Department Of Justice) What does 'assessing information' mean? Andrew has not been charged with any criminal offences and is not even the subject of a formal investigation at this point in time. If a police force says it is assessing information, it means it is looking at the information provided and evaluating where to go from there. London's Metropolitan Police gives an example of how this process works on its website, saying that "first, well make sure that were the right police force to investigate the crime" - i.e. is it in their jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Well then look at the information we've got and decide if we can investigate your report further," the Met said. "If we decide we can't investigate your report, we'll contact you to explain why." Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has not been charged with any offences and is not even the subject of an investigation at this time. (Imageplotter) It said its decision to go ahead with an investigation is based on four key factors: Vulnerability of the victim Seriousness of the crime The likelihood of solving it, and The best use of police resources. Thames Valley Police declined to say specifically what offences it was assessing in the case of Andrew. While anti-monarchy pressure group Republic has suggested the emails could indicate misconduct in public office and a breach of official secrets, authorities are yet to mention anything about specific offences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Misconduct in public office carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Stuart Miller Solicitors said this gives the court a "wide discretion in respect of the sentence that is imposed". "Currently, there are no sentencing guidelines in place to advise the court on how a sentence for this offence should be calculated," it added. A government factsheet on the Official Secrets Act 1911 says that this legislation, designed to punish espionage, includes the disclosing of trade secrets to the benefit of a "foreign power". Official government guidance highlights that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, guidance from the Department of Business and Trade reads. What have the royals said? The unfolding scandal has prompted renewed statements from the royal family as it seeks to distance itself from Andrew. Prince William in Saudi Arabia on the last day of his first official trip to the country. (Pool via Getty Images) On 9 February, Buckingham Palace said in a statement that King Charles had "profound concerns" about the allegations. "The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct," the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect." Ahead of a scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia on 9 February, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued their first public statement about the Epstein scandal. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: "I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims." Andrew, the Kings brother, was stripped of his titles in December 2025. By Lucy Papachristou TBILISI, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Armenia and the United States agreed on Monday to cooperate in the civil nuclear sector as Washington sought to bolster ties with a former close ally of Russia, months after Washington brokered a peace agreement in the South Caucasus. A statement on the nuclear sector deal was signed by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is on a two-day visit to the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two said they had completed negotiations on what is known as a 123 Agreement, which allows the U.S. to legally license nuclear technology and equipment to other countries. The agreement will allow up to $5 billion in initial U.S. exports to Armenia, plus an additional $4 billion in longer-term fuel and maintenance contracts, Vance said. "This agreement will open a new chapter in the deepening energy partnership between Armenia and the United States," Pashinyan said at a joint press conference with Vance. Long heavily dependent on Russia and Iran for its energy supplies, Armenia is now reviewing proposals from U.S., Russian, Chinese, French and South Korean companies to construct a new nuclear reactor to replace its sole, ageing Russian-built nuclear power plant, Metsamor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No choice has yet been made, but Monday's announcement paves the way for an American project to be selected. That would deal a blow to Russia, which traditionally has viewed the South Caucasus as its sphere of influence but whose clout there has diminished as a result of its invasion of Ukraine. Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, interviewed by the media outlet Izvestia, said a Russian proposal for a new nuclear plant was the best option and state nuclear corporation Rosatom was ready to proceed with it. "Rosatom is ready to proceed very quickly with the implementation of this project, of course in accordance with the wishes of our Armenian friends," Galuzin was quoted as saying. "There are no real alternatives in terms of the availability of reliable, proven technologies, as well as the attractiveness of financial parameters." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'DIVERSIFY PARTNERS' "Considering Armenia's multiplicity of dependencies on Russia, it is a political priority to diversify partners when it comes to nuclear cooperation," said Narek Sukiasyan, a political scientist in Yerevan. "The United States seems to be the preference now." Vance's visit comes just six months after the Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders signed an agreement at the White House seen as the first step towards peace after nearly 40 years of war. Vance was also seeking to advance the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)", a proposed 43-kilometre (27-mile) corridor that would run across southern Armenia and give Azerbaijan a direct route to its exclave of Nakhchivan and in turn to Turkey, Baku's close ally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The route would better connect Asia to Europe while, crucially for Washington, bypassing Russia and Iran at a time when Western countries are keen on diversifying energy and trade routes away from Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. The TRIPP corridor, which envisages new or updated rail infrastructure, oil and gas pipelines and fibre-optic cables, would transform the South Caucasus, a region riven by closed borders and longstanding ethnic conflicts. Galuzin told Izvestia that Moscow was studying the TRIPP proposal. "We're not just making peace for Armenia," Vance said. "We're also creating real prosperity for Armenia and the United States together." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is set to visit Azerbaijan on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the White House. (Reporting by Lucy Papachristou in Tbilisi; Additional reporting by Steve Holland in Washington; Editing by Gareth Jones, Mark Heinrich, Ron Popeski and Chris Reese) Before each new chemotherapy cycle, she is constantly torn by the thought: "Continue or stop the treatment journey?" VND100 million per month to stay alive N.T.T, 52, from Hai Phong shared through tears about her journey treating stage 4 lung cancer, which has metastasized to the liver, bones, and lymph nodes. Following her diagnosis, she began a treatment regimen combining targeted therapy and immunotherapy. "After using the medication for a year, I saw my health improve and my appetite return, so I thought a year of treatment would be enough. Because I wasn't advised early on, I didn't realize this was a long-term treatment that would essentially last a lifetime," T. said. This initial lack of foresight left her family unprepared for the financial demands of the long road ahead. In reality, for late-stage cancer, maintaining continuous treatment is decisive in controlling the disease. Stopping the medication carries a high risk of rapid progression. T. has fallen into a state of total financial exhaustion. According to the treatment protocol, T. must receive an infusion every 21 days. The immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) alone costs about 60 million VND per 100ml dose. Even with the "Buy 1 Get 1" support program, the total cost for each infusion ranges from 77 to 100 million VND due to additional expenses such as anti-allergy drugs, anti-nausea medication, detox infusions, vitamins, and necessary tests. Furthermore, every three months, she must undergo a full-body CT scan to evaluate the treatment response, further driving up the costs. According to N., health insurance only covers hospital bed fees and one PET/CT scan per year. Most of the medications she uses require out-of-pocket payment. After more than a year of treatment, my family has spent nearly VND2 billion. Now we truly have no ability to continue, T. said bitterly. Therefore, each time an infusion date approaches, she falls into a state of anxiety, torn between the desire to live and the reality of having run out of money. What troubles her most is whether there are other treatment options that are suitable, effective, but less expensive, and especially whether she can rely more on health insurance to reduce the burden. Many other cancer patients are also facing a life-or-death dilemma closely tied to the enormous cost of treatment. 28 new drugs The Ministry of Healths proposal to add 76 drugs to the list covered by health insurance has brought hope. Notably, cancer drugs account for the largest proportion, with nearly 28 types, reflecting the increasing demand for treatment and the financial burden patients face. The list of cancer drugs to be added includes 22 targeted therapy drugs, 6 immunotherapy drugs, as well as chemotherapy and detox medications used after radiation for common cancers such as breast, lung, liver, stomach, and some blood cancers. On the sidelines of a cancer-focused conference, Le Van Quang, Professor and Doctor, Director of K Hospital in Hanoi, said these drug groups were all proposed by specialized oncology treatment facilities to be included in the health insurance coverage list. The reason is the very high demand for their use, while treatment costs are so high that many patients cannot afford to follow long-term regimens. When covered by Health Insurance, the patient's co-payment will decrease significantly, opening up treatment opportunities for more people. According to Quang, targeted therapy drugs have developed to the third generation, acting directly on the genetic mutations of cancer cells. As a result, patients can shorten hospital stays and reduce dependence on long infusion sessions. Statistical data shows that targeted therapy can help extend progression-free survival up to 36.8 months, a very significant figure in cancer treatment. Assoc. Prof. Pham Cam Phuong, Director of the Center for Nuclear Medicine and Oncology at Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi), noted that current cancer treatment costs are immense. Many young patients lack the economic conditions to access new-generation drugs. Each time doctors consult with patients, they must carefully weigh financial factors for each individual. For patients in severe hardship, doctors sometimes have to work through social work departments to call for community support, but this is only a temporary solution for a small number of individual cases. Expanding the list of cancer drugs covered by health insurance is seen as a positive signal, helping reduce the financial burden on patients families while improving access to advanced treatment methods. With timely and adequate treatment, many cancer patients can return to normal life and continue to contribute positively to society. Phuong Thuy Lisa McGee felt that it was the right decision to end Derry Girls after three series. Lisa McGee brought Derry Girls to an end after three series The 45-year-old writer created the acclaimed Channel 4 sitcom about a group of teenagers growing up in Northern Ireland during the 1990s and is glad that she brought the show to a close on her own terms in 2022. Lisa told the i newspaper: "You dont often get that choice, working in TV. Normally that's down to the channel. But I felt it was done. And I never changed my mind." Derry Girls was set during the final years of The Troubles with the final episode centred on the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 and Lisa confessed that she felt "a lot" of pressure as she became an unofficial spokesperson for the city of Derry. She recalled: "At one point I had to say to my agent: 'Why am I being asked to go on Question Time? I'm a comedy writer!' "You can get swept up in the idea: oh maybe I should have something to say. But I don't have anything to say. I mean, I said what I have to say in the show. It was stressful, writing that last episode. But I'm very proud of it." Lisa has created the upcoming Netflix series How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, about three friends who investigate the death of a former schoolmate, and explained that she based the lead characters on the Spice Girls. The writer said: "Everything in my life is about the Spice Girls. "People are much more complicated in real life. But for a show like this to work, you need to know: this is the moral one, really religious but conflicted about that because she's gay. This is the married mum with this nice house who doesn't want her life to blow up because it's a good life. You have to have these types and then you can mess them up a bit." McGee explained that her career has been aided by the fact that she feels as though she is an eternal 15-year-old. She said: "I mean, I do know I'm not. I'm not a mad person. But I do just feel as silly and brand new as I did when I was that age. "I've come to love that about myself. I used to wish I could be a bit more sophisticated or whatever. But being so connected to the intensity of that young person inside me is quite good for the work. "Drama is about taking a truthful feeling and pushing it to the extreme. Like: what if things are a hundred times worse?" In the days leading up to Tet, the last remaining sugar kiln in the once-famous sugar-cane hub of Da Nang burns through the night. Thousands of handmade sugar bowls are produced here each day, not only for sale but to preserve a ritual offering to the Kitchen Gods that has survived for generations. For many families in Da Nang, the altar prepared to send the Kitchen Gods to heaven on the 23rd day of the last lunar month cannot be complete without a bowl of dark cane sugar. The ingredient also defines the flavor of traditional Tet cakes such as banh to, banh no and banh it gai. Though the craft operates year-round on special orders, the weeks before Tet are its busiest and most demanding. From the 15th day of the twelfth lunar month, the fire at the traditional sugar kiln run by Nguyen Van Nhan, 67, in Que Son ward of Da Nang, is lit at 2 a.m. each day. His facility produces more than 1,000 sugar bowls daily to meet Tet demand. Nhans family has practiced sugar making for three generations, passing the craft from parent to child. Yet in his lifetime, he has watched the number of practitioners dwindle. All three of my children chose not to follow the craft, he said. Perhaps my wife and I will be the last in the family to keep this kiln burning. He recalls a time when the village glowed with the red fires of sugar kilns every spring. But when sugar prices collapsed and farmers abandoned their cane fields, the traditional kilns faded one by one. Now, only his family continues to make Tet sugar in the village. If I give up the craft, I fear Da Nang will lose the flavor of its offering to the Kitchen Gods, Nhan said. According to local belief, the dark sugar bowl sweetens the words of the Kitchen Gods as they report to the Jade Emperor, helping to lessen misfortune and wish for a peaceful, prosperous year ahead. It is this belief that has carried the craft through decades of hardship. Each day, Nhans family presses around seven tons of sugarcane. The juice is filtered and transferred to a cast-iron pot to simmer for hours. In the past, pressing was entirely manual, requiring intense labor - even buffalo were used to turn the press. Recent years brought some relief when Nhan invested around 150 million VND (about 6,000 USD) in a mechanical press, though the cooking process remains fully traditional. Standing by the roaring kiln, enveloped in heat and steam, Nhan stirs the bubbling cane juice, watching its color carefully to determine the exact moment it thickens into syrup. Once it reaches the right consistency, the syrup is poured swiftly into an old jackfruit-wood vat - a tool he fondly calls his family treasure. The sugar is beaten continuously for about twenty minutes until it thickens into a pliable paste. It is then ladled into aluminum bowls brushed lightly with oil. According to Nhan, this pouring step is the most critical. Each bowl must be poured three times for the correct shape, especially the raised mound on top - a signature mark of the traditional offering. A sugar bowl for the Kitchen Gods without that mound is considered incomplete, he explained. Thai Quang Hai, 52, who has spent more than twenty years mastering the pouring technique, said the sugar must be poured while still extremely hot. Even a slight delay and the whole batch solidifies, he said. Getting each bowl to match in weight and shape requires long familiarity. When the sugar cools and hardens, workers use custom tools to release it from the bowls. In earlier years, clay bowls were used, but aluminum has replaced them due to better heat distribution and durability. Nhans kiln is now one of the few still operating in Da Nang. Its unique flavor ensures steady demand from traders who distribute the sugar across traditional markets within and beyond the city. According to Vo Thi Thanh, Nhans wife, the kiln produces more than 1,000 bowls a day during peak periods. They sell for 50,00060,000 VND (22.5 USD) per pair. The kiln maintains five workers from early morning until late evening. After covering cane costs, labor and other expenses, the family earns around 2 million VND (80 USD) a day. We work day and night to meet orders, Thanh shared. Now our kiln is the only one still making Tet sugar in the village. Keeping this craft alive is also keeping the memory of the old Tet for our children. The finished sugar bowls are neatly arranged, waiting for traders to collect and distribute them for Tet. The craft survives because Tet survives, because people still honor the Kitchen Gods, Thanh said. As long as families need the dark sugar bowl for their Tet offering, our kiln will stay lit. The traditional sugar kiln in Da Nang works at full capacity as Tet approaches. Photo: Ha Nam Cane juice is boiled in cast-iron pots for hours until it thickens into syrup. Photo: Ha Nam The thickened syrup is beaten continuously until it reaches the right consistency. Photo: Ha Nam The dark sugar is poured into aluminum bowls, creating the signature Tet offering. Photo: Ha Nam Workers then release the hardened sugar from the bowls using custom tools. Photo: Ha Nam Finished sugar bowls are neatly arranged for traders ahead of the Tet market. Photo: Ha Nam Ha Nam As the Lunar New Year approaches, Dong Nais largest gladiolus-growing village enters its most decisive stage, with farmers watching the weather and adjusting irrigation carefully so the flowers bloom exactly in time for the Tet market. Dong Nais largest gladiolus-growing area enters its crucial Tet season. Photo: Hoang Anh Across the country, demand for Tet flowers is beginning to rise, and gladiolus - a familiar bloom adorning family altars and living rooms - is among the most closely monitored crops in the region. In Xuan Loc Commune, the heart of Dong Nais gladiolus production, the atmosphere is lively and focused. On the fields, growers tend to each row, managing water levels, checking growth rates and ensuring the flowers follow the correct schedule to meet Tet demand. Farmers explain that despite being a steady seller every Tet, gladiolus remains highly sensitive to risk. A slight shift in weather or the unexpected appearance of pests can cause flowers to bloom too early or too late, resulting in significant losses. This flower is extremely delicate, one grower noted. To sell at a good Tet price, we must calculate everything precisely - from planting dates and fertilizing to water control and disease prevention. Ut stands beside gladiolus fields nearly ready for Tet harvest. Photo: Hoang Anh In the field, Tong Van Ut, a 66-year-old farmer of the Cho Ro ethnic group, stands beside rows of gladiolus nearing harvest. He explains that the crop takes about 75 days from planting to picking. For Tet, that means farmers must begin sowing around the 10th day of the tenth lunar month to meet market timing. Weather determines everything - quality and price, Ut said. If theres too much sun, the flowers bloom too early. If rain lasts too long, root and leaf diseases appear. If you detect it late, you can lose the entire field. Local growers say traders typically begin buying around the 23rd day of the last lunar month, with peak activity in the days immediately before Tet. Flowers that bloom early are harvested and sold first, though they fetch only average prices. Near Tet, prices often rise sharply, sometimes reaching nearly 100,000 VND (about 4 USD) per bundle of ten stems depending on size and bloom quality. Walking through the fields, growers point out signs of stress that gladiolus commonly encounters, from weakened stems to leaf discoloration. Despite the challenges, farmers in Xuan Loc remain hopeful. Farmers monitor signs of stress commonly affecting gladiolus. Photo: Hoang Anh Many expect this years crop to be both timely and profitable, as Tet demand appears stable. If the weather holds steady and the flowers bloom evenly with long, bright stems, prices are likely to stay high, helping families secure a warm and abundant New Year. Farmer Dinh Van Tin planted more than two sao of gladiolus this year for the Tet market. With nearly a decade of experience, he says his crop is developing on schedule and is likely to reach harvest just in time for Tet - typically the period with the highest prices. At this stage, we can only hope for stable weather, Tin shared. If the flowers bloom uniformly, with straight stems and vibrant color, traders will buy quickly and prices will be more favorable. Today, Xuan Loc maintains roughly 30 hectares of gladiolus near the foot of Chua Chan Mountain. The harvest not only supplies the province but is transported by traders to Ho Chi Minh City and other southern regions. During the peak period before Tet, trucks arrive continuously, turning the area into a bustling hub of activity. Growers spray treatments to ensure flowers bloom on schedule for Tet. Photo: Hoang Anh According to Phan Cao Lam, deputy chairman of Xuan Loc Commune, locals have cultivated gladiolus for over two decades, making it a signature crop for the Tet market. In recent years, the commune has encouraged growers to shift from traditional varieties to hybrid gladiolus from Lam Dong, which offer higher yields and economic efficiency. The commune aims to develop the gladiolus-growing area with a focus on improving product quality and stabilizing market access, Lam said. At the same time, we organize technical training and support access to credit so farmers can invest confidently and expand production. Hoang Anh In her welcoming remarks, HUFO President Ha Thanh stressed that the Lunar New Year (Tet) is one of the most sacred cultural traditions of the Vietnamese people. It is not only a moment to welcome the new year, but also an occasion for family reunions, strengthening bonds and cherishing humanistic values. According to Thanh, with the desire to share the beauty of Tet with international friends, HUFO organised the programme to create opportunities for diplomats working in the city and their families to engage in warm exchanges and build closer ties through Vietnamese traditional cultural activities, leaving them with lasting and memorable impressions of a traditional Vietnamese Tet in a civilised, modern and compassionate city. Consuls general and their families, dressed in traditional Vietnamese ao dai, took part in a variety of activities imbued with Vietnamese cultural identity, including visits to the Ao Dai Museum; enjoying traditional performances such as liondragon dances, ceremonial drumming and quan ho (love duet) folk singing; and hands-on experiences like making banh tet and banh it, painting piggy banks, moulding to he figurines and practising calligraphy. Wearing a Vietnamese ao dai, Pang Te Cheng, Singaporean Consul General, expressed his excitement and happiness at gaining a deeper understanding of the history and distinctive features of the ao dai, which reflects the rich cultural creativity of Vietnamese designers. He noted that Vietnams Lunar New Year celebrations differ from those in some other Asian countries, with more flowers, more elaborate decorations and a greater sense of joy. The programme was a fascinating New Year experience that conveyed the positive energy and aspirations of a dynamic nation. Alexandra Smith, UK Consul General, said it was an honour to experience Vietnamese culture and to learn about the beauty of the Vietnamese ao dai, its exquisite craftsmanship and its value as a symbolic cultural heritage. The programme was described as a practical activity to strengthen mutual understanding and friendship between HUFO and diplomatic missions in Ho Chi Minh City, contributing to people-to-people diplomacy while promoting traditional Vietnamese culture to international friends./. VNA The defendants at the court The kingpin behind a gold smuggling ring involving more than 546 kg of gold worth over VND1.208 trillion, along with the former chair of the Vietnam Gold Company, have been sentenced in a case involving smuggling and violations of accounting regulations causing serious consequences. The Hanoi Peoples Court on February 4 handed down sentences to 11 defendants in a case which occurred in Lao Cai Province and involved Vietnam Gold Investment and Trading JSC and related organizations and localities. The trial panel sentenced Tran Thi Hoan (41, gold trader) and Pham Tuan Hai (56, former director of Thang Long Trading and Services Co., Ltd.) to 10 years in prison each for the crime of smuggling. Accomplices in the smuggling charge, including Tran Thanh Hieu (39), Vang Thi Phuong (26), Luong Thi Bich Ha (32), Lieng Thi Thuc (25), Nong Thi Thuy Linh (41), and Nguyen Thi Phuong Nga (49), received sentences ranging from 3 to 5 years. Regarding the group charged with violating accounting regulations causing serious consequences, the court sentenced Tran Nhu My (49, former Chair of Vietnam Gold JSC), Phung Thi Thuyet (45, former Deputy General Director), and Nguyen Thi Hop (47, former Chief Accountant) to terms of 30 to 36 months in prison. According to the court, the defendants' actions were dangerous to society, infringed upon security and order, affected production and business, and caused losses to the State budget. The court determined that a strict sentence was necessary. The court found that the case involved direction and role assignments among the defendants, but the collusion was not tight; the defendants acted without an organized structure. Some defendants were hired laborers acting under instructions and did not profit, so they were not required to jointly compensate for damages exceeding VND1.200 trillion, equivalent to the value of more than 546 kg of gold. Regarding this amount, the court ordered Tran Thi Hoan and Pham Tuan Hai to bear responsibility for compensating the damage. Hoan must pay VND708 billion, while Hai must pay VND499 billion. The court noted that Hoan had already paid VND400 million and Hai had paid VND500 million. According to the indictment, taking advantage of the price gap between raw gold in the domestic market and China, from September 2, 2024 to December 2, 2024, Tran Thi Hoan reached an agreement with a Chinese national known as Ba Beo and with Pham Tuan Hai to smuggle raw gold from China into Vietnam. The gold was brought through the Lao Cai International Border Gate without permission from the State Bank of Vietnam, with a total weight exceeding 546 kg and a value of more than VND1.208 trillion. The indictment determined that Tran Thi Hoan purchased more than 97.3 kg of gold worth over VND208 billion from Ba Beo and bought 449 kg of gold worth VND999 billion from Pham Tuan Hai. According to the kingpins testimony, many gold bars purchased from Ba Beo bore markings and Chinese characters, so the markings had to be erased to avoid detection of foreign origin. The gold was then cut into small pieces and sold to customers in Hanoi. Defendant Vang Thi Phuong, one of the couriers transporting gold from China to Vietnam, testified that she owned a hair salon in Hekou, Yunnan Province, China, and frequently crossed the ChinaVietnam border. In 2024, Ba Beo regularly visited Phuongs salon for haircuts and shampoos. Through conversations, Phuong learned that Ba Beo was looking for people to smuggle gold from China into Vietnam for delivery to Tran Thi Hoans shop. Due to unstable income and a desire to earn money to support her child, Phuong agreed to carry smuggled gold for Ba Beo for a fee of VND250,000 per kg. The indictment determined that Phuong successfully transported 97 kg of gold and earned nearly VND25 million in fees. She has returned the money. Phuong also testified that, to transport the gold across the border, she hid the gold under the soles of her shoes. When passing through the border gate, her shoes were not scanned because the scanners only screened luggage. Because officers did not inspect people or require shoes to be removed, Phuong carried about 2 kg of gold per trip, with 1 kg in each shoe. After crossing the border, she would call employees or relatives of Tran Thi Hoan to notify them of the delivery time at Hoan Hue Gold Shop or at a location near the kingpins residence. T. Nhung The Ministry of Industry and Trade said the nation has raised its economic growth target to double-digit expansion during 202630, altering energy demand projections and requiring revisions to the national energy plan to safeguard the economys energy supply. Other changes affecting the plan include national marine spatial planning, the revised national masterplan, the adjusted power development plan (PDP8) and administrative boundary adjustments following provincial mergers, all of which influence the scale and spatial structure of energy planning. Rapid advances in science and technology are also reshaping energy planning in line with the Politburos Resolution 57 dated December 22, 2024, on developing science and technology, innovation and digital transformation. The resolution sets tasks for developing energy infrastructure, especially new and clean energy, while ensuring energy security for strategic industries. Under the draft plan, which has been made public for feedback, the ministry emphasises the importance of national energy security, with supply expected to meet demand to support a minimum average GDP growth of at least 10% during 202630. Total final energy demand is projected at around 120130 million tonnes of oil equivalent (toe) by 2030 and 175200 million toe by 2050. Petroleum reserves, including crude oil and refined products, are proposed to rise to the equivalent of about 90 days of net imports by 2030. The draft highlights the countrys energy transition, with renewable energy expected to account for 2530% of total primary energy supply by 2030 and 7080% by 2050. Energy savings are targeted at 810% of total final consumption by 2030 compared with a business-as-usual scenario. Greenhouse gas emissions are projected to fall by 1535% by 2030 compared with the baseline, with energy-sector emissions estimated at 433474 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2030 and around 101 million tonnes by 2050. Crude oil output during 202630 is projected at 5.88 million tonnes a year, while natural gas production is expected to reach 5.411 billion cubic metres annually. The ministry also plans to enhance liquefied natural gas (LNG) import capacity to support gas-fired power plants and create LNG-based energy hubs across regions. The draft outlines plans to develop renewable and new energy industries, aiming to turn Vietnam into a regional clean energy industrial hub and exporter, with clean energy centres established in the northern, south-central and southern regions. Green hydrogen production capacity is targeted at 100,000200,000 tonnes a year by 2030, with a long-term vision of 1020 million tonnes annually by 2050. Renewable energy is expected to provide 30.939.2% of electricity production by 2030, moving toward 47% with strong international support under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), and reaching 67.571.5% by 2050. The draft also aims to develop two inter-regional renewable energy industrial and service centres by 2030 and export 5,00010,000 megawatts of electricity./. VNA Art lovers in Hanoi are currently witnessing this shift firsthand at Two Friends, a dual exhibition featuring Northern Irish painter Rodney Dickson and Vietnamese sculptor Dinh Cong Dat. The show is more than a reunion of two old friends - it marks a profound transition in their creative journeys after more than 25 years of mutual understanding and quiet artistic dialogue. Despite no shared language or cultural background, Rodney and Dat are bound by a deep artistic empathy. That silent companionship now culminates in a body of work that is pared-down, reflective, and inward-looking. At Two Friends, both artists step back from guiding the viewer, offering 18 paintings and sculptures that exist side by side, each with its own rhythm and internal logic. Rodney Dicksons artworks. Color is restrained. Form is reduced to its essence. Narrative is consciously withheld. Rodneys paintings - dark, thick, and meditative - pull the viewer into an interior world. In contrast, Dats sculptures are distilled almost to skeletal structure, whispering rather than declaring. Together, the works do not impose meaning, but instead create a stillness in which emotion arises only through slow, attentive looking. Known for his large, energetically textured canvases, Rodney introduces a more intimate scale in this exhibition - 13 oil and charcoal paintings that feel personal and contemplative. Dat, too, turns away from the flamboyant color and detail that once defined his sculptures. Using papier-mache and traditional lacquer, his newer works are larger in scale yet markedly more restrained, revealing a commitment to clarity and essential form. This mutual departure from signature styles suggests a shared pursuit: slowness, stillness, and subtlety. Art, for both, is no longer a vehicle for message - but a space for unnamed experience. Minimalist papier-mache sculptures by Dinh Cong Dat The two artists at Two Friends. More than 24,500 businesses resumed operations during the month, up 146.2% month on month and 7.6% year on year, bringing the total number of newly established and reactivated firms to 48,700, a year-on-year increase of 45.6%, the office said. On average, over 1,500 companies joined the market each day last month, reflecting the business communitys expectation for economic recovery and growth in 2026. Besides, the newly established firms registered 180.9 trillion VND (6.97 billion USD) in capital and nearly 108,200 employees, up 92.3% and 32.7% from a year earlier, respectively. Despite the increase in business formation, average registered capital per new firm fell to 7.5 billion VND, down 22.6% from the previous month and 15.2% from the same period last year. Additional capital injected by existing firms approximated 358.1 trillion VND, a decline of 2.5% from January 2025. By sector, new registrations rose across the board. Notably, the accommodation and food service sector recorded 1,107 new companies, shooting up 224.6% year on year the fastest pace among all sectors. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries witnessed 304 new firms, up 169% from a year earlier, while the construction and real estate sectors saw respective surges of 92% and 128.9%. The services sector added nearly 18,400 new firms, shooting up almost 130%. The wholesale, retail, and automobile motorcycle repair sector posted the largest number of newly established firms 11,290, up 186%, statistics show. However, signs of strain persisted. Almost 54,300 businesses registered temporary suspensions in January, 11.8 times more than the previous month and up 2.8% year on year. More than 7,300 firms ceased operations while awaiting dissolution procedures, down 42.1% month on month but up 109.1% year on year. Besides, 4,609 completed dissolution, down 8.6% month on month but up 128.1% year on year, according to the office./. VNA The Government Office has released the conclusions of the Standing Government at the sixth meeting of the steering committee for key national railway projects. Regarding the Lao CaiHa NoiHai Phong railway, the conclusions state that for Component Project 1, the Ministry of Construction must continue directing the project management unit and contractors to accelerate construction and ensure timely completion. For Component Project 2, the ministry must direct the project management unit and consultants to finalize the feasibility study report no later than March, approve the project in July, and begin construction on major items in the third quarter of this year. On loan negotiations, the Ministry of Finance will lead coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Construction to expedite negotiations on loan agreements in March, while proactively calculating mobilization from multiple sources, including the state budget, government bond issuance, approximately USD 2 billion saved from the five percent reduction in public investment spending for 2026, and concessional loans if negotiations proceed smoothly. Regarding negotiations on the agreement to construct a cross-border railway bridge between Vietnam and China, the Ministry of Construction will coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to accelerate negotiations within the first quarter. On resolving overlaps with the expressway project connecting to Gia Binh Airport, the Ministry of Construction and the Ha Noi People's Committee must finalize a solution within the first quarter. The ministry will, within its authority, implement necessary tasks to ensure synchronization with the expressway project. Local authorities and the Vietnam Electricity Group are required to urgently carry out compensation, support, resettlement, land clearance, and relocation of technical electrical infrastructure. For the NorthSouth high-speed railway project, the Ministry of Construction must fully incorporate feedback from the Standing Government and relevant agencies and finalize the technology and partner selection report - including the main report, summary submission, and draft conclusions. This must be submitted to the Government Party Committee before February 20 to obtain guidance from competent authorities. Selection of consultants to prepare the feasibility study should be completed within the second quarter. The ministry will continue evaluating investment models to identify the most optimal approach that balances the interests of the state, the public, and enterprises. Local authorities and the Vietnam Electricity Group must continue accelerating land clearance and infrastructure relocation under the resolution approved at the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly. During project preparation, investment models will continue to be examined to encourage participation from major domestic corporations, ensuring balanced interests between the state and private investors. On the planning of the Ha NoiLang Son and Hai PhongMong Cai railway lines, the Ministry of Construction must expedite the signing of technical support agreements with China and complete the planning within this year. The Standing Government and the Prime Minister have approved the proposal to assign the Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee as the lead agency for the Mong CaiQuang NinhHai Phong railway project to enhance regional connectivity and promote tourism and trade with China. The Ministry of Construction must urgently implement the directives of Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha in document No. 785/VPCP-CN dated January 23, guiding Quang Ninh authorities to comply with legal procedures and report to the Prime Minister before February 10. On urban railway projects, Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City must proactively deploy their respective metro lines, ensuring progress and quality, particularly the line connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh International Airport. In Ha Noi, key lines include the NhonHa Noi Station underground section, the Van CaoHoa Lac line, and the Nam Thang LongTran Hung Dao line. For the Van CaoHoa Lac line, authorities must negotiate with contractors to shorten construction time by one to two years as reported by the Ha Noi leadership. Cities must also review planning and develop metro systems deeper underground in alignment with the resolutions of the 14th Party Congress. The Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and local authorities must urgently study and propose the National Technical Standards for Urban Railways. Three ministries - Defense, Finance, and Construction - must coordinate to resolve bottlenecks related to land clearance, funding, and administrative procedures. Ngan Anh Hosting a delegation of distinguished expatriates attending the Homeland Spring 2026 programme on February 6, Thang said Hanoi from 2026 onward will pursue fast and sustainable growth based on three pillars, economic, social and environmental, with science and technology, innovation, digital transformation and high-quality human resources serving as key drivers. He highlighted the important role of OV intellectuals and scientists, affirming the citys commitment to facilitating their participation, removing obstacles and expanding consultation channels to incorporate their input. Representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang acknowledged Hanois strong progress in science, technology and innovation, identified as priority areas, and praised the constructive contributions made by expatriates at the meeting. Despite global difficulties in 2025, she said, the OV community remained united and closely connected to the homeland, demonstrating solidarity through practical support activities, particularly during natural disasters. As Vietnam enters a new development stage, overseas Vietnamese have also contributed to drafting Party documents and resolutions with about 2,500 comments and hundreds of congratulatory messages, she noted, thanking Hanoi authorities for strengthening engagement with the expatriates. At the meeting, participants proposed initiatives in science, technology and innovation, including strengthening the national innovation network, applying artificial intelligence solutions and developing smart, sustainable urban models. They also expressed readiness to continue contributing knowledge, experience and resources to Hanois future growth./. VNA The 2026 Year of the Horse Lunar New Year holiday for students nationwide is relatively long, with the common duration ranging from 11 to 14 days, depending on the locality. Some provinces, such as An Giang, Lam Dong, and Quang Ninh, have granted students up to 14 days off. In some areas, the actual holiday time is even longer due to overlap with weekends. Meanwhile, Hanoi currently has the shortest holiday schedule, with only 5 days officially planned (totaling 9 days when including the adjacent weekends). This years nearly two-week Tet holiday may seem long enough for children to recharge, but it has left many parents uneasy as exams draw near. Tran Thi Kim Ngan, a teacher at Kim Lien High School in Hanoi, said that during major holidays such as Tet, she usually does not assign extra homework to students. I have always hoped that students could have a Tet holiday with no homework, so they can devote 100 percent of their time and attention to learning more about the traditional cultural knowledge and values of the nation during Tet, Ngan said. According to Ngan, there is no need to worry excessively that students will lose knowledge if they are not given Tet homework. When students study seriously, the daily homework assignments already help convert short-term memory into long-term memory. For knowledge that has entered long-term memory, students only need a brief reminder to recall it fully, she explained. Therefore, Ngan said assigning homework during Tet is unnecessary and may create avoidable stress and pressure for students. Ho Tuan Anh, principal of Quynh Phuong Secondary School in Hoang Mai town, Nghe An province, said Tet is a deeply meaningful holiday for students. Normally, the Lunar New Year break comes right after the end of the first semester, so it is also a chance for students to truly unwind after months of study. Tet is also an opportunity for them to reconnect with family, clans, ancestors, hometowns and the community. Moreover, it is a time for students to learn about Vietnamese customs and traditions. Ultimately, that is also education and learning, he said. According to him, many parents and teachers worry that a long break will cause students to play too much and interrupt their learning, leading them to assign heavy homework. This can create pressure and anxiety, stripping away the meaning of the holiday. Tuan Anh argued that it would be unfair if teachers want to rest fully during Tet while forcing students to worry about completing assigned tasks. Perhaps we should only offer suggestions for them to explore the customs and traditions of their hometown and lineage, and to observe the traditional Tet atmosphere with nuance instead of just immersing themselves in books, Tuan Anh suggested. Tet is not an exam period, but a classroom of life Nguyen Thi Minh Thuy, Principal of Nguyen Sieu Secondary and High School (Hanoi), also believes that Tet is not an exam period but can be a classroom of life. Tet should not become a 'miniature semester' with dense academic assignments. On the contrary, it is a precious time for students to truly rest, return to their families and roots, and engage with the nation's traditional cultural rhythm, the things that no textbook can fully replace, Thuy said. Instead of academic homework, according to Thuy, schools should encourage students to carry out personal experiential projects such as wrapping chung cakes with grandparents, going to the Tet market, cleaning ancestral altars, visiting relatives, participating in local festivals, or recording family Tet stories. Every small activity is a big lesson in history, culture, ethics, gratitude, and the connection between generations. In the digital era and global integration, when knowledge can be accessed anytime and anywhere, the most important thing is not just knowing a lot, but understanding who you are. Tet is the most natural space for students to nurture their identity and form a cultural character, Thuy said. According to the Principal of Nguyen Sieu School, modern education does not only take place in the classroom but also in life. And Tet, after all, is a "classroom", where every child learns how to be a person, a child, and a Vietnamese citizen in a constantly moving world. Thanh Hung Sri Lankan police seize over 2,400 firearms linked to shootings in 2025 Xinhua) 10:15, February 09, 2026 COLOMBO, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka Police seized 2,404 firearms linked to shooting incidents in 2025 as part of intensified operations against organized crime, a police spokesman told media on Friday. Police Media spokesman Assistant Superintendent F.U. Wootler said that the authorities also arrested 44 suspected shooters during the year. In addition, police detained 34 motorcyclists accused of transporting gunmen to crime scenes and 307 suspects believed to have aided and abetted the attacks. The seizures and arrests followed a series of coordinated investigations and raids aimed at curbing gun violence and dismantling criminal networks operating across the country, he said, adding that further operations are underway to trace illegal firearms and prevent future shootings. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The Mexican government is planning potential ways to send fuel to Cuba to address acute shortages without triggering retaliation from U.S. President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order imposing tariffs on countries who do. Reuters detailed that top Mexican officials have been talking to U.S. counterparts to better understand the scope of the order. Asked about the alleged talks, the White House referred to comments by Trump, who said on Monday that "Mexico is going to cease sending oil" to the beleaguered Caribbean country. The remark took place shortly after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said the country will send humanitarian aid to the island but "everything regarding oil shipments due to humanitarian reasons will be solved through diplomatic means." In this context, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the country is making preparations to face "acute fuel shortages." "We'll live through tough times. These, in particular, are very tough," Diaz-Canel told press on Thursday. Others are echoing the warnings. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned Cuba could "collapse" if the current situation continues. Stephane Dujarric, a spokesman for Guterres, told press that the secretary general is "extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation" in the Caribbean country, which will "worsen, if not collapse, if its oil needs go unmet." Dujarric went on to say Guterres is urging "all parties to pursue dialogue and respect for international law." Tensions continue to run high in the region as a report from the Financial Times last week claimed that the country has less than a month worth of oil at current levels of demand and domestic production. Citing data company Kpler, the outlet noted on January 29 that the country had oil to last 15 to 20 days unless deliveries resume. "They have a major crisis on their hands" Jorge Pinon, an oil expert at the University of Texas told the outlet. Trump has been urging Cuba to engage before its stock runs out completely. Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, on his end, rejected reports that the country is taking steps towards formal negotiations with the U.S. but acknowledged there are conversations. Speaking to Spanish agency EFE, the official said that "the U.S. government is perfectly aware of Cuba's stance and its willingness to engage in dialogue and has not rejected that." Originally published on Latin Times This recognition places Vietnam among a select group of countries whose cocoa beans are prized for distinctive flavour profiles rather than sheer volume. Fine Flavour Cocoa accounts for only about 10 15% of global production and is primarily used in premium and craft chocolate segments. Vietnam enjoys a rare combination of advantages: inclusion in the fine-flavour category, diverse ecological conditions, and the ability to develop cocoa cultivation through agroforestry and intercropping models aligned with the trend of low-carbon and sustainable agriculture. Rather than competing on output, Vietnam has a clear opportunity to pursue a high-value strategy centred on quality, branding and regional identity. Opportunities for Vietnamese cocoa For many years, cocoa in Vietnam remained a small-scale crop, largely absent from major agricultural value-chain strategies. However, in the context of agricultural restructuring linked to green growth, emissions reduction and deeper international integration, cocoa is emerging as a promising niche commodity. MSc. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai from the Western Highlands Agriculture and Forestry Science Institute (WASI), said Vietnamese cocoa is highly regarded for its rich flavour, balanced natural acidity and distinctive fruity notes characteristics well suited to craft chocolate, dark chocolate and premium cocoa products. Fine flavour is not about volume, but about quality, traceability and the cultural story of a farming region, she said. Market Research Future (MRFR) estimates the global cocoa bean market reached approximately 17.17 billion USD in 2024 and is expected to exceed 37 billion USD by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate of around 7.3%. Growth is increasingly driven by high-end segments such as dark chocolate, artisanal chocolate, organic cocoa and sustainably sourced, traceable products. Strategic role of Central Highlands The Central Highlands is Vietnams largest cocoa-growing region, with Dak Lak province demonstrating the strongest potential to develop a structured and competitive cocoa industry. In addition to having the largest plantation of the tree nationwide, Dak Lak benefits from fertile basalt soil, a stable highland climate, extensive experience in industrial crop cultivation, and an emerging ecosystem of enterprises and cooperatives. Notably, cocoa in Dak Lak is primarily grown through intercropping under coffee, fruit trees and forest canopies, consistent with regenerative agriculture principles. Cocoa improves soil cover, boosts organic matter, absorbs carbon, and doesnt compete for nutrients, making it a great choice for long-term sustainable production. The province currently has seven cooperatives engaged in cocoa production. Many farmers, cooperatives and producer groups have established linkages with enterprises for production and sale, helping stabilise markets and improve quality. However, these linkages remain limited in scale, with most activities focused on raw material supply. Deep processing and value addition are still modest. Farmers learn about a cocoa cultivation model in Dak Lak province. (Photo: VNA) In response, Dak Laks agricultural sector is developing a cocoa value-chain strategy aimed at moving beyond raw production to include processing, branding and export market integration. With a shared vision of transforming the province into a centre for Vietnamese cocoa and chocolate, businesses and farmers are working together to turn the red basalt plateau into a symbol of green and high-value export-oriented agriculture. Doan Thi Kim Xuyen, Director of the Cacao Land Co. Ltd in Dak Lak, noted like many other distinctive products of the Central Highlands, the greatest value of cocoa lies not in raw beans, but in its potential to be processed deeply and tell the story of the local land and its people. A chocolate bar brings in many times more value than bean export. But more importantly, it helps Vietnam enter the market as a value creator, not a seller of raw materials, she opined./. VNA The fight over federal money doesn't usually announce itself with drama. It arrives as a missing payment, an unanswered phone call, a childcare provider staring at a budget that suddenly doesn't add up. Then the panic startsquiet, local, intimate. A parent's shift can't be covered. A family support programme can't promise what it promised last week. A state agency starts doing the maths and realises it's being asked to absorb a hole it simply can't carry. That is the human backdrop to a new ruling in New York federal court, where a judge has again told the Trump administration to stop trying to freeze billions of dollars in social services funding for five Democrat-led states. The legal language is cool and procedural. The consequences, if the freeze had gone through, would have been anything but. On Friday, U.S. District Judge Vernon Broderick extended a preliminary injunction blocking the administration from slashing funds to social service programmes in Minnesota, California, Illinois, New York and Coloradostates that receive more than $10 billion a year in federal money for these programmes. New York Attorney General Letitia James said the 'illegal funding freeze would have caused severe chaos' for vulnerable families in her state. You don't have to be sentimental to agree with her. You just have to understand how quickly 'administrative action' becomes real life. Trump Funding Freeze And The Court's Warning Of 'Severe Chaos' The programmes at the centre of the dispute are not some vague pot of discretionary spending. They are the basic scaffolding that keeps low-income families upright: childcare support, family assistance, and wider social services that states administer with federal backing. When those funds are interrupted, even temporarily, it creates what the states themselves described as 'operational chaos.' That phrase can sound abstract until you picture what it means on the ground. Childcare subsidies are not a luxury line item; they are the difference between a parent working and a parent losing a job. Family assistance programmes are not 'handouts' in the sneering sense some politicians prefer; they are often the last barrier between a bad month and a spiral. A funding freeze turns that barrier into wet paper. Broderick's preliminary injunction extends the block while the lawsuit continues. The statesMinnesota, California, Illinois, New York and Coloradoasked for the injunction, arguing the administration's action was unlawful and destabilising. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in a statement quoted by The Hill, called the administration's actions 'not only unlawful they are cruel, targeting the most vulnerable among us.' That's not the language of a technical dispute. It's the language of two sides who believe this is about power. Trump Funding Freeze And HHS's Fraud Justification The Trump administration's justification has been consistent: fraud. The Department of Health and Human Services said the freeze was driven by 'serious concerns about widespread fraud and misuse of taxpayer dollars in state-administered programs.' HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill argued that families deserve confidence the resources are used lawfully and for their intended purpose, framing the move as one of 'program integrity' and 'fiscal responsibility'.' If that sounds reasonable in isolation, that's because it isnobody is pro-fraud. The problem is how fraud claims are being deployed politically, and how blunt the instrument becomes when you punish whole states and, by extension, millions of families, to make a point about 'integrity'. Even the reporting around the freeze makes clear that Minnesota's situation has been used as a narrative anchor, tied to high-profile fraud investigations that have generated intense political heat. The court record shows how fast this escalated. Earlier in the case, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian granted the states' request for a temporary restraining order to 'protect the status quo' while arguments were made. That TRO specifically restrained implementation of the freeze as applied to the Child Care and Development Fund, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, and Social Services Block Grants, and ordered the removal of restrictions on the states' ability to draw down funds. Broderick's latest move keeps that protective posture in place. It is not a final ruling on the merits, but it is a clear signal that the judiciary is not inclined to let the administration yank the floorboards out from under these programmes while the legal fight is unresolved. In other words: the court has pressed pause. For families who rely on these funds, 'pause' isn't some procedural footnote. It's timetime to keep childcare running, to keep support offices staffed, to keep life from tipping into crisis while lawyers argue over who gets to decide what counts as 'integrity.' Originally published on IBTimes UK In a field of twenty-one candidates, the special election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia's 14th district - a longstanding GOP stronghold - may turn blue. About 16 Republicans, 3 Democrats, 1 Independent, and 1 Libertarian will cast ballots starting on March 10. Christian Hurd, one of the Republican presidential candidates, withdrew just one day before the deadline. A straightforward race becomes an unmanageable battlefield due to the sheer number of competitors. Each candidate is vying for a piece of the same cake, and voters are faced with a bewildering array of choices at the polls. A divided vote could be a ticket to a Democrat, as Republican strategists are quick to point out. After taking office in January 2023, Greene received 65.9 per cent of the vote, dominating the district. The analysts add that the number of Republican challengers has now eroded the margin. The partisan confidence that once seemed unbreakable is now as fragile as a glass shattering on a narrow road. The Trump Aspect In a dispute with President Donald Trump, Greene shares the details of his departure. The congresswoman, a fervent supporter, publicly criticised Trump's foreign policy, health care, and his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. She resigned in a video message in November 2025, departing on January 5. Trump further widened the rift by calling her a 'traitor,' 'disgrace,' 'ranting lunatic,' and 'wacky.' His backing of a Republican opponent heightened the sense that Trump's district's popularity might explode. The Final Opportunity for a Democrat Shawn Harris, a retired U.S. Rancher and brigade general in the Army. Nearly 135,000 votes went to him, the most Democratic votes the district has seen since its creation in 2010. Harris has a relatable image because of his farmwork and military experience. Democrats find it refreshing in a district that has never been very blue; it is a determined dream that may very well come true. The Stakes and Voter Pulse One farmer in the district's suburbs of Winder claims that the ballot is like a web of options, with each option pulling in a different direction. He is questioning whether it is time for a change or if voters will stick with their conservative predecessors. Meanwhile, one of the Marietta retirees recalls the 2016 election, when voters were thoughtful and determined. In the long run, the seat will not be decided by the special election. A runoff between the two front-runners from the commonwealth will take place on April 7. Following a May primary, the entire two-year term will be contested in the general election in November. The electorate still has a long way to go, and each time a voter examines the ballots, potential weighs heavily on him. What's Going to Happen Next? The GOP is more interested in a shift in narrative than in sheer numbers. The message that has kept the district Republican may be weakened by a crowded field. The divisive rhetoric of Trump and his cult of personality, along with the domestic GOP squabbling, are likely to disillusion the voters, who may find solace in a Democrat's message of change. The Democratic Party is already beginning to support Harris's candidacy in the hopes that her name will connect with the ideas of humility and discipline. The 21-candidate race will test the electorate's appetite for change and the district's allegiance. This will be the ultimate test: will a red district flow blue or stay red? Voters alone will make the decision. Nobody outside of Georgia will forget the outcome, which serves as a reminder that even deep-red trenches can collapse when unexpectedly strong currents are present. Originally published on IBTimes UK Photo: baodautu.vn Agricultural products accounted for around $3.6 billion, surging 41.8 per cent compared with the same period last year. Livestock products generated $47.5 million, up 20.2 per cent, while seafood exports reached $940 million, increasing 21.5 per cent. Forestry products recorded export value of $1.72 billion, up 13 per cent. By region, Asia remained the largest export market, absorbing 45.3 per cent of Vietnams total agro-forestry and fisheries exports. The Americas followed with a 22.7 per cent share, while Europe accounted for 13.4 per cent. Africa and Oceania recorded more modest shares of 2.6 per cent and 1.4 per cent, respectively. Compared with January 2025, export value to Asia rose by 41.1 per cent, to the Americas by 22.4 per cent, to Europe by 11.2 per cent, to Africa by 21.6 per cent, and to Oceania by 32.3 per cent. China, the United States, and Japan remained Vietnams three largest individual markets, with market shares of 22.6 per cent, 20.4 per cent, and 7 per cent, respectively. Exports to China posted the strongest growth, up 66.1 per cent on-year, followed by the United States at 21.6 per cent and Japan at 19.6 per cent. Several agricultural export groups recorded strong growth in January, including coffee, rubber, tea, rice, fruit and vegetables, cashew nuts, and pepper, with increases seen in both volume and value. Coffee and rubber continued to play a leading role. Coffee exports reached approximately 180,000 tonnes, valued at $981 million, while rubber exports totalled about 220,000 tonnes, worth $416 million, both posting sharp on-year increases. Average export prices for the two commodities remained stable, with key markets concentrated in Europe and Asia. Tea and rice also saw solid gains in both volume and export value. Tea exports reached around 14,000 tonnes, generating $23 million, while rice exports amounted to roughly 600,000 tonnes, valued at $370 million. Although average tea export prices edged down slightly, higher volumes lifted overall turnover. Meanwhile, rice export prices rose by around 4 per cent to an average of $617 per tonne. Deputy Minister of Finance Do Thanh Trung The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Finance Do Thanh Trung and Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Jim Nickel. Deputy Minister Do Thanh Trung noted that after nearly 40 years of economic reforms, Vietnams business sector has steadily developed in both scale and quality, becoming one of the key drivers of the socialist-oriented market economy. At present, Vietnam has more than one million enterprises and over five million business households in operation, contributing around half of GDP, more than 30 per cent of total state budget revenue, and accounting for approximately 82 per cent of total employment. The business sector plays an important role in encouraging innovation, improving labour productivity, enhancing national competitiveness, contributing to poverty reduction and social stability. Many Vietnamese enterprises have grown strongly, built recognised brands, and expanded into regional and global markets. Deputy Minister Trung said that Vietnam was among the countries most severely affected by climate change. Rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and increasingly complex extreme weather events and natural disasters are intensifying in both frequency and severity. These impacts not only seriously affect key economic sectors, but also directly impact peoples livelihoods, posing threats to food security and the countrys sustainable development goals. The development of climate enterprises is of great significance, as they both contribute to economic growth and job creation, and provide environmentally friendly products and services. Supporting and encouraging climate enterprises will help expand their positive impact, thereby making more practical contributions to the countrys sustainable development goals, Trung said. AGILE project launch ceremony However, in practice, and according to recent studies, climate enterprises continue to face numerous problems. These include limited access to finance and a lack of necessary technical support to scale up operations and enhance competitiveness. Many climate enterprises, particularly those in the early growth stage, encounter difficulties due to unproven business models, unclear productmarket fit, and limited research data to support innovation. These factors increase risks for investors and create barriers to capital flows into the climate sector. In addition, while domestic and international investors are showing growing interest in the Vietnamese market, there remains a shortage of information, a lack of high-quality, investment-ready projects, and insufficient mechanisms to effectively connect investors with local enterprises. Many investors also lack a comprehensive understanding of specific opportunities in climate change adaptation and mitigation in Vietnam, resulting in the markets potential being underexploited. Trung highlighted that the documents of the 14th National Party Congress reaffirm and clearly define the Partys commitment to sustainable development, with a stronger emphasis on green and inclusive growth, not trading the environment for economic growth, and placing people and quality of life at the centre of development. In parallel, Resolution No.68-NQ/TW in 2025 of the Politburo affirms that the private economic sector is one of the most important driving forces of the economy, serving as a pioneer in encouraging growth, job creation, improving labour productivity and national competitiveness, and restructuring the economy towards a green, circular and sustainable model. The private sector is at the heart of the Vietnamese governments efforts to transition towards a green economy, by mobilising private investment to drive innovation and improve real efficiency, he said. The deputy minister said that in recent years, with a strong commitment to leading enterprise support efforts, the MoF had implemented numerous initiatives to encourage business development, building an enterprise support ecosystem through training, consultancy, technical assistance and resource mobilisation. The MoF is very pleased to receive the partnership and support of the government of Canada in jointly launching AGILE," he said. " We hope that the project will not only serve as a testament to the long-term, trusted strategic partnership between Vietnam and Canada, but also make an important contribution to the Vietnamese governments efforts to encourage private sector innovation and sustainable growth. Canadian Ambassador Jim Nickel Speaking at the launch, Canadian Ambassador Jim Nickel affirmed Canadas commitment to supporting Vietnams green transition through innovative financial solutions. He said that under the project, Global Affairs Canada will work in partnership with Vietnams MoF, the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), and Sarona Asset Management, using official development assistance as a catalyst to de-risk and mobilise private investment. The core focus of the initiative is to strengthen the capacity of domestic business support organisations, enabling them to deliver more effective services to climate enterprises, particularly women-led businesses, so that these enterprises are better prepared to receive investment and scale up. The initiative also aligns with Canadas renewed approach to international development assistance, which aims to boost shared prosperity by strengthening investment, connecting green supply chains, and expanding trade opportunities for both Canadian and Vietnamese enterprises, the ambassador said. Canada-backed initiative boosts climate resilience in Vietnam A new Canada-backed initiative is taking root in Vietnam to boost forest sustainability and build resilience against climate change. Canadian Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu will visit Singapore from February 9 to 10 to attend the Canada-in-Asia Conference, before travelling to Vietnam from February 11 to 12. The visit aims to deepen trade and investment cooperation as Canada broadens its partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region. The visit will advance Canadas trade ties with Vietnam and Singapore, two key partners in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), promoting the agreement and reinforcing Canadas support for Vietnams priorities as the 2026 CPTPP Commission Chair. In Singapore, Sidhu will meet business leaders, investors, and government officials from Canada and across Asia, highlighting Canadas commitment to strengthening economic partnerships and advancing trade priorities in Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, he will hold discussions with government representatives and business leaders from both countries, aiming to reinforce Canadas role as a reliable partner in trade, investment, and economic cooperation. ASEAN is a cornerstone of Canadas Indo-Pacific trade strategy and one of the worlds fastest-growing economic regions, said Sidhu. Through closer engagement with partners across ASEAN, including Singapore and Vietnam, Canada aims to expand trade and investment links that support job creation, market access, and sustainable economic growth. The Indo-Pacific is Canadas second-largest regional merchandise export market, after the United States, with annual two-way merchandise trade valued at $262 billion in 2024. Vietnam is Canadas largest merchandise trading partner in the ASEAN region. In 2024, Canada-Vietnam merchandise trade totalled $15.7 billion, up from $14 billion in 2023. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership has been in force in Vietnam since January 2019. The deal will support Vietnam's ambition to become an 'AI-native' society and a leading AI hub in Southeast Asia, while ensuring national data sovereignty and digital resilience. The agreement formalises a comprehensive partnership and establishes the legal, financial, and regulatory framework required to advance deployment across the country. The partners have commended the government for approach in advancing regulatory frameworks that enable hyperscale data centre deployment and public cloud adoption. Backed by spending commitments of up to $1 billion, the partnership represents a significant milestone in the region's digital transformation journey. The consortium and G42 bring together complementary strengths essential for national-scale deployment. FPT Corporation provides deep technical expertise and local market knowledge. Viet Thai Group, a leading consumer-focused group, contributes strategic capabilities and cross-sector insights. Meanwhile, G42 brings advanced AI infrastructure. Under the agreement, the consortium and G42 will deploy significant cloud capacity across three data centre locations in Vietnam, delivering high-performance AI and cloud services to support public and private sector workloads. The initiative aligns with G42's broader mission to build a global and inclusive Intelligence Grid, interconnecting advanced AI infrastructure, cloud platforms, and governance frameworks to enable AI capabilities on demand, while respecting national sovereignty. Through this infrastructure, Vietnam will gain the technical foundation to develop national AI initiatives across both public and private sectors, digitising services and deploying AI-powered solutions tailored to national priorities. "This Framework Agreement represents a new model for national AI transformation one built on sovereignty, partnership, and purpose," said Ali Al Amine, chief commercial officer of G42 International. "We are grateful to the Vietnamese government for their visionary leadership and to our partners, FPT Corporation and Viet Thai Group for their commitment to building infrastructure that enables Vietnam to harness AI's full potential while maintaining data sovereignty and digital independence." Truong Gia Binh, chairman of FPT Corporation said, "Vietnam clearly understands that it cannot move forward alone. In areas such as semiconductors, AI, cloud computing, big data, and cybersecurity, we need strategic alliances with partners we can rely on and trust. The leaders have shown strong commitment, built mutual trust, and now it is time to turn those commitments into real implementation." Beyond infrastructure development, the partnership includes plans for national AI training and workforce development programmes designed to support AI adoption across government, industry, and academia. "This initiative positions Vietnam at the forefront of AI-driven economic development in Asia, supporting economic development and the growth of the middle class in Vietnam. Our partnership with G42 and FPT creates the infrastructure foundation for long-term growth and innovation across multiple sectors," said David Thai, CEO of Viet Thai Group. Following the signing of the Framework Agreement, the consortium and G42 will advance to the next phase of execution, including finalising workload distribution between public and private sectors, securing regulatory approvals for public cloud adoption, and commencing site development for data centre infrastructure. HITC ties up with Evolution to develop AI and hyperscale data centres in Vietnam HTC International Telecommunication JSC (HITC) and Evolution Data Centres (Evolution) have established a joint venture to develop large-scale, AI and hyperscale data centres in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Global alliance develops $1 billion AI data centre network in Vietnam Create Capital Vietnam JSC, Haimaker.ai, and other global investors have announced a joint venture to develop a $1 billion network of sovereign AI data centres. Why did PPL choose offshore wind (OSW) power logistics as an important step in developing green logistics, and how do you position PPLs role in Vietnams energy transition journey? Do Hoang Phuong We believe that the present moment is a strategic opportunity for PPL to venture into the development of green logistics. The opportunity only arises when three factors converge: a clear national direction, emerging market demand, and the readiness of the companys internal capabilities. Firstly, Vietnam is stepping up its efforts to realise its renewable energy development goals, of which OSW is a key component in the mid and long term. This has led to a huge demand for highly specialised technical logistics for offshore ventures an area where domestic supply capacity still has a gap. Secondly, international developers and contractors in the market are increasingly prioritising logistics partners with on-site deployment capabilities, deep local understanding, and international-compliant operations in terms of safety, quality, and efficiency. They are capable of implementing operational solutions to optimise energy in line with global trends. Thirdly, PPL has accumulated practical experience through numerous large-scale energy projects while steadily improving its management system, technical workforce, and international safety standards. This has laid a solid foundation for PPL to venture into the OSW power logistics sector in a professional manner. We are ready to compete and affirm our capabilities in the energy logistics industry. PPL has identified OSW power logistics as not only a new business segment but also a long-term development space closely linked to Vietnams energy and industrial strategy for decades to come. Vietnam is realising its commitments on renewable energy development and emission reduction. Against this backdrop, how do you see the role of logistics? Vietnam has identified OSW power as a crucial component in its energy development strategy. To facilitate the goal, logistics plays a key role in successfully implementing large-scale offshore ventures with complex technical conditions and high international safety standards. In reality, there is a limitation in specialised technical logistics capabilities in the domestic market, particularly in the transportation, loading, unloading, and coordination of super-long and super-heavy components offshore. Thus, the implementation of large-scale energy ventures will face significant challenges. Against the backdrop, PPL has positioned itself as a trusted logistics partner in the renewable energy value chain. PPL is capable of delivering comprehensive, safe, and efficient logistics solutions for OSW power ventures, along with infrastructure, oil and gas, and other energy initiatives. The company aims to enhance domestic logistics capabilities, helping Vietnam implement large-scale energy initiatives and reaffirm its energy logistics in line with global standards. What are the core competencies that enable PPL to gradually master project logistics and be ready to venture to playgrounds with high standards like OSW power? Over the last 10 years, PPL has focused on building the foundation, accumulating capabilities and proving our competency by taking on increasingly complex projects. The company has firmly established three core pillars that have become PPLs competitive strengths. The first pillar is the capacity to manage and implement complex logistics projects. Since its early years, PPL did not follow a traditional model but focused on solving highly technical problems that require multi-stakeholder collaboration, risk control, and tight project management. The company has demonstrated its capabilities by engaging in ventures like transporting a 4,000-tonne offshore substation topside, a series of 33 offshore substation topside, nearly 200 wind turbines on the coast of the Central Highlands, along with transportation for airports like terminal 3 at Tan Son Nhat, Long Thanh, and Phu Quoc. The second pillar is a safety culture and operational discipline. In the offshore energy field, safety is not a motto but a prerequisite. PPL remains steadfast in formulating safety management systems in line with international standards. Safety is considered as a fundamental value in all technical plans and execution decisions. The third pillar is the comprehensive investment in people, technology, and governance. Instead of pursuing rapid expansion, PPL focuses on building a team of highly skilled engineers, field supervisors, and project managers. This is coupled with applying advanced analytical, simulation, and management tools to boost accuracy and operational efficiency. PPL contributed to 9.7 million safe working hours at Greater Changhua offshore wind farm 2b&4 (CHW2204) Could you share PPLs strategies to enhance internal capacity while expanding international partnerships? Internally, PPL continues to invest strategically in equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure for technical logistics. At the same time, the company is accelerating process standardisation, digitalising management, and strengthening its capabilities in design and logistics coordination from the early stages of project preparation. In terms of partnerships, we pursue a long-term collaboration strategy with various experienced and reputable players in the offshore energy power and logistics sectors. In 2025, PPL signed partnerships with several corporations, including CRRC Zhuzhou Institute, PowerChina, COSCO Shipping Logistics, and Urban Logistics. Beyond implementing specific ventures, these partnerships pave the way for PPL to standardise its management systems, strengthen technical capabilities, and align with international benchmarks. PPL customs clearance and transportation of goods for Nhon Trach 3&4 liquefied natural gas plants How do you expect PPL to contribute to Vietnams logistics over the next five years? We identify this as a pivotal time for PPL to climb up the development ladder from accumulating capabilities to affirming position in the energy logistics and industrial infrastructure market. Our goal extends beyond expanding operation to participating deeply and responsibly across the entire project value chain. PPL aims to be a logistics partner capable of supporting investors and contractors from preparation to construction and project operation, contributing to optimising progress, costs, and safety. Meanwhile, we aspire to contribute to enhancing domestic logistics capabilities, enabling Vietnam to become more proactive in implementing complex, large-scale renewable energy ventures. In the international market, PPL is ready for long-term partnerships with proven capabilities, operational discipline, and a commitment to continually raising standards. In doing so, the company helps position Vietnamese logistics firms on the regional and global energy logistics map. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment names 10 outstanding events in 2025 The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) announced 10 notable achievements for 2025, outlining a year marked by institutional reform, organisational restructuring, digital transformation, and record export growth. The highlights were presented at a regular press conference on February 5. A major focus of the year was stabilising the ministrys organisational structure following its merger, with an emphasis on creating a leaner, more efficient system. After the government issued Decree No. 35/2025/ND-CP defining the ministrys functions and structure, the MAE moved quickly to ensure it could begin full operations from March 1, 2025. The restructuring significantly reduced overlapping units, cutting 25 out of 55 focal points, 19 out of 78 non-business units, and 63 out of 301 department-level units. Officials say the streamlining has laid the groundwork for improved management effectiveness and better service delivery for citizens and businesses. Second, the 1st Party Congress of the MAE (2025-2030) sets out a full strategic direction. The congress, which took place on August 14, 2025, was an important political event marking a turning point in the development and integration of the agriculture and environment sector. Third, a ceremony for the 80th anniversary of the sector and its 1st Patriotic Emulation Congress was held, honouring 80 years of agricultural development and environmental protection. The event highlighted achievements in food security and sustainable, high-tech development, aiming to foster innovation and national prosperity. Fourth, was the breakthrough in building institutions, policies, and laws, while creating a lever for development. In 2025, the ministry developed 110 legal normative documents. The highlight was the review of 1,055 valid documents to serve organisational structure, decentralisation, and delimitation of authority associated with the two-level local government model. In parallel, the ministry removed legal bottlenecks and improved the business environment. Fifth, the ministry highlighted strong and substantial administrative reform, including reduced costs, and increase confidence. In 2025, the ministry issued a key administrative procedure reform plan, and at the same time, reviewed, announced, and publicised the list of hundreds of procedures spanning multiple fields. The ministry also set a goal of reducing administrative procedure processing time, and unnecessary business conditions at least 30 per cent, all while strengthening digitalisation, increasing transparency, and cutting red tape. Sixth was the focus on promoting science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to ensure better management and production. The ministry organised over 40 conferences and seminars; completed 133 of 188 tasks, and is implementing the remaining tasks; and at the same time announced it is tackling major problems in sci-tech and innovation. Seventh, was a 90-day campaign to clean and standardise the national land database. More than 61 million land plots were reviewed and updated, with over 24 million meeting strict real-time operational standards. Officials described the progress as a significant step forward in ensuring accurate, unified, and shareable land data across national systems. Eight was enhanced proactive international engagement, shifting from a primarily receptive role to a more active leadership position in cooperation. The MAE negotiated, signed, and implemented many international treaties and agreements; at the same time, it oversaw trade negotiations and promotion, exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, and expanded markets for product consumption. Ninth, agricultural, forestry, and fishery export turnover set a record of over $70 billion last year. The total export turnover of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products is estimated at $70.09 billion, an increase of 12 per cent on-year the highest ever, exceeding the initial target of $65 billion. Finally, the ministry oversaw a much improved early response to natural disasters, ensuring production, and minimising damage. Facing increasingly unpredictable weather conditions, the ministry coordinated early responses to storms, flooding, landslides, forest fires, cold spells, and salinity intrusion in the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City. These measures helped stabilise production and minimise damage in vulnerable regions, supporting both livelihoods and food security. Durian growers require solutions for China's import restrictions Durian export activities need solutions to ensure strict compliance with Chinas plant quarantine and food safety regulations for sustainable market access, according to those attending the Sustainable Durian Industry Development Workshop held in Hanoi on June 10. Australia and Vietnam partner on digital and green agriculture research Australia and Vietnam are strengthening their agricultural research partnership, with a focus on digital innovation and climate-smart growth. Japans Mitsubishi Corporation has acquired the 1.8-hectare Thuan An 1 high-rise residential project from Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corporation (PDR) for VND1.9 trillion ($73.2 million). Following the transaction, the two companies on February 4 commenced a partnership to develop the project. As an initial step in the partnership, the two companies will jointly develop the Thuan An 1 high-rise residential scheme in Thuan Giao Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. The development is expected to reflect international collaboration standards and contribute to raising urban development quality in the citys northeastern area. Under the agreement, the two parties are cooperating on a mixed-use complex incorporating integrated amenities and green living spaces. Thuan An 1 is being designed to meet international standards such as LEED and Fitwel, aiming to enhance residential quality and support the surrounding urban environment. Both parties seek to leverage their respective expertise and experience in project development and management, with the objective of delivering a high-quality and well-managed urban development that meets international expectations. Bui Quang Anh Vu, CEO of PDR, said, We are pleased to cooperate with Mitsubishi Corporation on the Thuan An 1 development. Drawing on Mitsubishis experience and international standards, the partnership is expected to support the delivery of green and sustainable housing aligned with market demand in Vietnam. Mitsubishi Corporation is also committed to acquiring the Thuan An 2 venture following the completion of the first deal. The subsequent transaction is estimated to be valued at around VND2 trillion ($77 million). Mitsubishi Estate launches first logistics project in Vietnam Japanese conglomerate Mitsubishi Estate marked its strategic expansion from commercial real estate into the ready-built warehouse sector in Vietnam with the inauguration of the Logicross Nam Thuan project on August 20. Mitsubishi Power and Doosan Enerbility team up for O Mon 4 plant Mitsubishi Power and Doosan Enerbility are partnering up to supply advanced gas turbines for the O Mon 4 power plant, marking a key step in the projects construction. At a time when the SME community continues to face mounting pressure related to capital constraints and operating costs, tax policy is widely expected to be an important lever to help the sector accelerate. Decree No.20/2026/ND-CP, which takes effect from January 15, details and provides guidance on the implementation of a number of provisions under Resolution No.198/2025/QH15 from May 2025, presenting several special policies for the development of the private sector Under Decree 20, SMEs that embrace business registration for the first time are eligible for a tax exemption for three years from the date they are granted their registration certificate. This preferential period is calculated continuously from the first year of operation. In cases where a business registration certificate was issued before the effective date of Resolution 198 and the business is still entitled to incentives under previous regulations, it may continue to enjoy those incentives for the remaining period, ensuring policy stability and consistency. However, to prevent abuse of the policy, newly established businesses formed through mergers, consolidations, divisions, separations, changes in ownership, or conversions of enterprise type are not eligible. Notably, for innovative startups and startup support organisations, the incentive framework is designed to be even more robust. Accordingly, entities are granted a corporate income tax exemption for the first two years, followed by a 50 per cent reduction in the amount of tax payable over the subsequent four years. Businesses are required to separately account for the income eligible for incentives, or allocate it proportionally based on revenue and expenses, as a basis for applying the policy, thereby ensuring transparency and compliance. Alongside tax incentives, startups are also allowed to set aside up to 20 per cent of taxable income to establish a Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation Development Fund. In addition, the state provides free access to shared digital platforms and accounting software for small and micro enterprises, household businesses and individual business operators, thereby supporting standardised governance practices and reducing operating costs. Assessing Decree 20 implications, many observers believe that the policy not only helps ease cost pressures and improve cash flow for newly established enterprises, but is also expected to create a strong impetus for the private sector, encouraging startups and nurturing businesses during their early, high-risk stages. Trinh Thi Ngan, head of the Advisory Board of the Hanoi Small and Medium Enterprises Association, noted that the provision on corporate income tax exemption during the first three years was of great significance, helping firms reduce capital pressure and gain additional resources to invest in machinery, equipment, technological upgrades and product innovation. This is not only a policy to encourage startups, but also contributes to expanding the formal enterprise sector, supporting household businesses in transitioning to the enterprise model, towards the goal of reaching two million businesses by 2030 and two million by 2045, she said. According to Hoang Van Cuong, member of the PM Policy Advisory Council, the tax exemptions under the new decree represent an important step, demonstrating the firming up major guidelines on private sector development, and laying a long-term foundation for the sustainable growth of private enterprises. Reducing the tax burden in the early stages will help firms accumulate more resources, create opportunities to expand their operations, enhance their resilience to risks, and confidently invest in innovation and production expansion, he said. Expert assume that tax exemptions and reductions are practical when implemented in parallel with policies supporting access to land and production and business premises. The corporate income tax exemption during the first three years is critical for newly established companies. In addition, the states clear prioritisation of leasing houses and land, along with reduced rental prices for SMEs and innovative startups, helps create stable and long-term working facilities and environments for businesses. While encouraging household businesses to scale up, the implementation of concrete support policies will enable people to operate with greater confidence and initiative. Special tax incentives for National Innovation Centre from early October Research and development and investment activities in the National Innovation Centre will enjoy special tax incentives from October 5, 2020. ASEAN-wide tax analysis urged Establishing rules for the good governance of tax incentives in ASEAN member states is being raised as one of the main solutions to prevent a race to the bottom on taxation. As AI accelerates transformative changes worldwide, this survey aims to offer a critical snapshot of how Vietnams workforce is adapting within todays dynamic labour market balancing optimism with rising demands for stability and equitable compensation. Drawing on responses from over 1,000 Vietnamese employees spanning from more than seven industries, the survey reveals a workforce increasingly focus into job security, fair recognition and financial wellbeing. In Vietnam, the workforce is embracing AI more rapidly than many of the global counterparts. According to the survey, 83 per cent of Vietnamese workers currently use AI in their tasks, significantly higher than the global average of 69 per cent. Notably, 38 per cent of the Vietnamese workforce employs Generative AI daily, a figure that is more than twice the global average of 14 per cent. This impressive uptake reflects Vietnams accelerated digitalisation and readiness to leverage cutting-edge technologies across industries. It also signals a profound shift in workforce mindset, where AI is increasingly recognised not just as a productivity tool but as a catalyst for career development and innovation. This is underscored by 90 per cent of AI respondents who report tangible improvements in both productivity and output quality, coupled with high excitement and curiosity about new technological possibilities. Overall job satisfaction among Vietnamese workers remains high, with 81 per cent expressing satisfaction with their job at least once a week, surpassing the global average of 70 per cent. This suggests that many employees find meaning and inspiration in their work despite the pressures of an evolving labour market. However, this positive outlook is tempered by emerging challenges. The data reveals signs of strain, with 40 per cent of respondents experiencing financial stress and 58 per cent reporting fatigue significantly higher than the Middle Easts 45 per cent. Younger workers, particularly Generation Z, remains more cautious about job st ability. These indicators are not passing concern but represent ongoing priorities for employers to implement effective wellbeing initiatives for a motivated and healthy workforce. Security, including job stability and financial wellbeing, is critical to motivation. 79 per cent of the global workforce surveyed rank job security is a top priority when considering new roles, reflecting a cautious approach amid economic uncertainties. In Vietnam, however, the outlook is more optimistic overall, with 77 per cent of employees confident about their future. Financial security supports this sentiment, with over 60 per cent reporting they can cover their expenses, well above the global average. Yet, Generation Z express greater caution about the predictability and durability of their career paths, highlighting the need for employers to address their concerns. Significantly, productivity improvements thanks to new technologies are already translating into tangible financial rewards in Vietnam. A notable 69 per cent of Vietnamese workers reported receiving pay rises linked to enhanced productivity markedly higher than the global average of 43 per cent. This paves the way for rising expectations around recognition and rewards, as 51 per cent of Vietnamese workers anticipate requesting salary increases within 2026. It indicates that compensation strategies must align with employee contributions to maintain motivation and talent. Globally, more than two-third of employees believe they have a large or moderate amount of control over the way technology will affect their work during the next three years. Younger workers demonstrate greater optimism about their ability to harness rapidly evolving technologies to advance their career goals. Vietnams workforce reflects this proactive attitude towards personal and professional development, since 60 per cent of respondents expect AI to significantly transform their job soon. This foresight is matched by a strong demand for upskilling, with 75 per cent of workers considering opportunities to develop new skills a fundamental part of a good job. Continuous learning is seen as integral to career progression and job security, motivating employees to take charge of their skill development. Most respondents (74 per cent) said that having access to learning and development resources at work. This emphasis on skill enhancement was vital in adapting to the ongoing technological disruptions and the evolving demands of AI-influenced roles. The evolving business landscape demands that leaders urgently realign talent strategies to reflect their workforces changing priorities. Prioritising transparency, fostering trust, and committing to continuous learning are essential to driving meaningful employee engagement and empowerment. The PwCs Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2025 Vietnam highlights presents six key actions to fuel workforce motivation in the AI era. Keys among them are ensuring fair recognition, supporting mental wellbeing, and aligning skill development with AI advancements, organisations can secure sustained engagement and long-term growth. Forward-thinking leadership in these areas will be vital to staying competitive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Mohammad Mudasser, director of Deals Transformation, PwC Vietnam, said, Its fascinating to see how quickly the Vietnamese workforce is embracing AI. Its driven by more than just curiosity; they are seeing tangible benefits to their work and careers. The opportunity for leaders is to build on this momentum. People & Cultural Transformation succeeds when it empowers people to shape the change, not just endure it. Standing out in the Chinese outbound investment wave As shifting trade regimes and supply chain realignments accelerate Chinese companies push to go global, Southeast Asia has emerged as the regions foremost investment destination. In an interview with VIRs Hazy Tran, Angela Yang, partner at PwC Vietnam, revealed how Chinese enterprises plan overseas expansion within the next few years. Vietnam leads ASEAN in EV market growth Vietnam is emerging as a regional frontrunner in the transition to electric mobility, driven by rapid market growth and rising electrification. A major suspect in the 2012 terrorist attack on the U.S. compound in Benghazi, Libya has been apprehended and brought to American soil to face justice, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Friday. Zubayr Al-Bakoush arrived at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at 3 a.m. on Friday after being extradited to the United States. He faces an eight-count indictment including murder, terrorism, and arson charges related to the September 11, 2012 attack that claimed the lives of four Americans. "Today, I am proud to announce that the FBI has arrested one of the key participants behind the Benghazi attack," Bondi stated during a press conference alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Jeanine Pirro. The charges include the murders of U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and State Department employee Sean Smith, as well as the attempted murder of State Department Special Agent Scott Wicklund. Al-Bakoush also faces conspiracy charges for providing material support to terrorists that resulted in the deaths of four Americans. "We have never stopped seeking justice for that crime against our nation," Bondi emphasized. "You can run, but you cannot hide." According to officials, Al-Bakoush was initially charged by sealed complaint in 2015. The case remained under seal for 11 years as authorities worked to locate and apprehend the suspect overseas. The State Department and CIA collaborated with the FBI to make the arrest possible, though officials declined to provide specific details about the capture operation. "From day one, Kash and Dan would sit in meetings and say, 'We're going to get him,'" Bondi said. "And they did." The 2012 Benghazi attack began on the evening of September 11 and continued into the following day. Initially believed to be a spontaneous reaction to protests, the incident was later confirmed as a deliberate terrorist attack carried out by extremists with ties to groups affiliated with al Qaeda. In addition to Ambassador Stevens and Sean Smith, the attack also killed CIA contractors Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty. The assault involved armed militants attacking the diplomatic compound and a nearby CIA annex. The case became highly politicized in the years following the attack, with extensive congressional investigations examining security measures, military response, and the Obama administration's handling of the incident and its aftermath. Al-Bakoush will be prosecuted in U.S. federal court, though it remains unclear whether he has legal representation at this time. The arrest marks a significant development in the long-running investigation into one of the deadliest attacks on American diplomatic facilities in recent history. Originally published on HNGN On February 5, Vu Thi Chan Phuong, chairwoman of the State Securities Commission (SSC) met with Fiona Bassett, CEO of FTSE Russell. At the meeting, SSC chairwoman Vu Thi Chan Phuong, said, "We would like to thank FTSE Russell for its ongoing support, objective assessments, and valuable recommendations, which have helped Vietnams securities market meet reclassification criteria and advance sustainable development." Phuong also described SSC's ongoing coordination with the State Bank of Vietnam to promote the capital market, develop new securities products, and improve conditions for foreign investors. Fiona Bassett, CEO of FTSE Russell, commended Vietnams recent efforts, highlighting their significance in integrating the Vietnam securities market into the global financial system. These achievements reflect the strong leadership of Vietnams authorities and the regulators commitment to market infrastructure reform and responsiveness to investor and market participant feedback. Bassett noted, "The issuance of Circular No.08/2026/TT-BTC, which allows foreign investors to transact through global brokers, is a key factor in FTSE Russells review process in March, with results to be announced in April." "As an organisation that develops and provides an international market index, FTSE Russell expressed its expectation that cooperation and partnership with Vietnams market authorities and institutions will continue to strengthen in the coming period," she added. The meeting also included detailed discussions on technical cooperation between FTSE Russell and the Vietnam Exchange to develop a new market index, as well as on listing Vietnams derivatives products on the Singapore market. At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties committed to strengthening coordination and maintaining open dialogue to implement solutions that support market reclassification and promote the sustainable development of Vietnams securities market. Vietcaps VAD 2026 draws strong global investor turnout Vietcaps Vietnam Access Days conference highlighted rising global interest in Vietnams capital markets, drawing record participation from offshore funds and corporate leaders. Vietnam steps up market reforms as FTSE Russell reviews upgrade progress On February 5 at the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Deputy Minister Nguyen Duc Chi received a working delegation from FTSE Russell, led by CEO Fiona Bassett. Wrexham County Borough Council has unanimously voted to demand the UK Government scrap the use of private sector agents in its asylum dispersal system, calling the current process fundamentally flawed and totally unacceptable. The Extraordinary Meeting of the Full Council was held at the Guildhall to debate a single Motion on asylum dispersal, signed by 23 councillors and led by the Council Leader, Cllr Mark Pritchard. Introducing the motion, Councillor Pritchard told the Chamber it was extremely important the debate took place, urging councillors to set politics aside. This is about Wrexham, its about Wales, and its about the UK, he said. With well documented local issues, the council leader described the current Home Office process as failing the basic principles of democratic accountability. Ive always been brought up and opened this transparency, democracy. Its fundamental to this chamber, and its fundamental to this council, he said. I was elected along with the other 55 councillors to represent my community, and you were the same. How can you represent your community if you dont know whats going on or whats being proposed for that community. Thats the fundamental issue here. Cllr Pritchard said he and the deputy leader were briefed by officers but told they could not share the information. Im told, as a politician, the officers are very good, to be fair. They call David and I in and they say, listen, this is whats going on. Were engaging with you, which they have to, but by the way, cant tell anybody. Why would you think that makes David and I feel. We are vulnerable, but we dont agree with it. He pointed to community anger, referencing the recent public meeting in Rhos. You can see the frustration on the people of Rhos when they come out in their masses, he said. But he also stressed Wrexhams record of compassion, saying the council should celebrate what weve done in Wrexham with previous refugee programmes. We should always help people who were fleeing persecution and their countries are being invaded by dictatorship, he added. I hope every authority across Wales does exactly the same thing, because it cant continue. Theres no democracy, theres no openness, theres no transparency until its too late, and that is not right. We shouldnt accept that Wrexham is better than that. We are a very good, strong Council. I believe that all of you, the 56 of us, represent our constituents for the right reasons, and we are restricted in doing so. Seconding the motion, deputy leader Cllr David A Bithell said he had attended the public meeting in Rhos and had spent weeks dealing with issues across the borough. He thanked council officers, saying theyve done a really, really good job in our Community Safety team by fending off a lot of questions and trying to deal with a number of issues arising. Cllr Bithell acknowledged the pressure councillors were under from constituents but said the existing process gave them no meaningful way to respond. Five days for the consultation is not adequate. That is not meaningful consultation. The process is fundamentally flawed. It does not give us opportunities to make representations on behalf of our constituents, he said. He drew a contrast with previous refugee programmes managed through the Welsh Government, saying humanitarian issues have worked really well with Welsh Government and the 22 local authorities, and theyve been done in a sensitive and proper manner. During the debate, Councillor Dana Davies proposed two additions to the Motion which were accepted by the mover and seconder. The first added the words including all associated funding to the resolution calling for devolution of asylum accommodation responsibility to Wales. The second was a new resolution calling on the council to review its housing strategy and define a local HMO housing model. Cllr Davies explained the reasoning, saying the council knew from recent expressions of interest that the Home Office contractor is actively pursuing large properties within Wrexham County and pursuing an accommodation model of mass scale development of houses of multiple occupation. In Welsh planning legislation large scale HMOs are defined as seven persons or more and always require planning permission. So in the absence of an LDP, we need wrexhams Housing Strategy to clarify what the preferred HMO model scale is for Wrexham Cllr Davies argued that setting clear local policy on HMOs would create a gold standard that other Welsh councils could follow. Cllr Bithell accepted the additions but urged caution, noting that HMO policy affected more than asylum dispersal. HMO doesnt just cover asylum dispersal, it also covers temporary accommodation, homeless, and weve got to be really, really careful that we dont make the situation worse for Wrexham, because weve done a lot of work in the last few years on dealing with our homeless accommodation, he said. Cllr Paul Pemberton described conditions he said were unacceptable, telling the chamber that the council had been notified of asylum seekers shipped out in the dead of night, to some accommodation, like two or three oclock in the morning. He said officers had been under intense pressure, likening the experience to working on the coalface for two or three weeks. He added: All we asked for is a longer timescale, five days is no good, and for the public to be involved from day one and to be more open and transparent from the outset. I dont think thats too much to ask. Cllr Rob Walsh said the issue of where asylum seekers were dispersed was properly a matter for local people, We cant really focus on the general issues of immigration asylum seekers, because they are matters for the UK Parliament, even though all of us have have opinions on this matter. But, I think when it comes to dispersal to locations, then that is a matter for us. It is a matter for local people what happens? Because as we know, as weve all seen, this is a very, very highly emotive subject, and thats why this issue must always be addressed with sensitivity and with common sense. I think the crux of this motion is having private companies often based miles away proposing locations is not really appropriate, is it? And thats why I think that its, as weve already seen, that weve seen unsuitable locations proposed, and even though theyve been knocked back, its caused a lot of upset to the local people, and so we need to avoid this going forward Cllr Walsh acknowledged the motion alone would not resolve all public frustration but said it will be a big step in the right direction. It will go some way to restoring some confidence amongst the public. Cllr Robert Ian Williams supported the motion, adding I believe it is a balanced motion and stands in the tradition, as Councillor Pritchard has said, of the genuine hospitality that we have offered refugees in this city, because were not against refugees in my party, but were against illegal immigration Appearing to be hot on party politics, the Mayor encouraged Cllr Ian Williams to stick to the motion, with an ongoing exchange debating if the points were on the Motion or not. The Council Leader interjected, angry that the Mayor was not being respected, The mayor has stood up. So therell be an adjournment. What I said is, is that councillors should not argue with the Mayor. This is the Mayors chamber, and we respect the Mayor and the dais and the protocol. Cllr Ian Williams apologised and carried on, I apologise if I have a fallen out of protocol. I was unaware of that. Im just trying to say that in certain areas of the country, people have died The Mayor cut him off and moved to the next speaker. Cllr Hugh Jones gave a firm speech, Im supporting this motion based on what the leader and deputy leader of the council have said, and based on Wrexhams proud tradition of supporting people who are fleeing from oppression in Ukraine, in other parts of the world, and Im definitely supporting it. The reason why Im also supporting it is in the current situation and the current policies. It is creating fear, and in some cases, unnecessary fear in communities. It leads to community tension and community unrest, and thats based on the secretive nature of the process and the fact that elected members are provided with information that theyre unable on the advice of officers. Therefore that adds to the tension, and in many cases, in the case in my own ward at the moment, its creating tensions which I believe are unwarranted. Cllr Jeremy Kent said he supported the motions aims but added a caveat, saying I dont want people to quote me in the future to say that I voted for further devolution to the Welsh Government. But for the gist of what the motion is set out to achieve, and for the support of our communities and to have a robust process in place, I will support the motion, albeit a little bit hesitant about calling for more devolved powers at this time. Summing up, Cllr Pritchard said the cross-party support sent a powerful message, It sends the right message to the Home Office forget your politics this is cross party support, and that means a lot, and that message will be heard. The motion was put to a vote and passed unanimously. Spotted something? Got a story? email us at Got a story? email us at news@wrexham.com Volcanic eruptions represent one of nature's most powerful forces capable of altering global weather patterns and climate systems. When massive volcanoes eject billions of tons of gas and particles into the atmosphere, they create cooling effects that can lower Earth's temperature by several degrees for years. Understanding volcano climate impact helps scientists predict weather changes and explains historical climate anomalies that shaped human civilization. How Do Volcanoes Affect the Climate? The primary mechanism behind volcanic climate impact involves sulfur dioxide emissions that transform into tiny sulfuric acid droplets in the atmosphere. These aerosol particles reflect sunlight back into space before it reaches Earth's surface, reducing the amount of solar radiation that warms the planet. Large explosive eruptions can inject 15 to 30 million tons of sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, where particles remain suspended for months or years. Volcanic ash also plays a role in blocking sunlight, though its effects typically last only days or weeks as heavier particles settle quickly. The most significant climate impacts occur when volcanic eruptions reach the stratosphere, approximately 10 to 15 kilometers above Earth's surface. At this altitude, aerosols spread globally through atmospheric circulation patterns, creating worldwide cooling rather than regional effects. Research shows that major volcanic eruptions can decrease global temperatures by 0.5 to 0.6 degrees Celsius. This temperature reduction affects weather science fundamentals by altering precipitation patterns, wind systems, and seasonal variations across continents. Historical Examples of Volcanic Climate Impact Mount Pinatubo's 1991 eruption in the Philippines stands as one of the best-documented cases of volcano climate impact. The eruption released 22 million tons of sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, creating a global haze that lowered temperatures by approximately 0.5 degrees Celsius for nearly two years. Scientists measured reduced sunlight, altered monsoon patterns, and cooler summers across multiple continents following this event. The 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia produced the most powerful explosion in recorded history. The following year became known as "The Year Without a Summer," with crop failures, snow in June across New England, and widespread food shortages throughout Europe. Temperature records show global cooling persisted for three years after the eruption, demonstrating how volcanic eruptions can trigger agricultural disasters and social upheaval. Benjamin Franklin made the first scientific connection between volcanoes and climate after observing unusual weather following Iceland's Laki fissure eruption in 1784. He noted persistent fog and colder winters in Europe, linking these phenomena to volcanic emissions carried by atmospheric winds. This observation laid the groundwork for modern weather science understanding of volcanic atmospheric interactions. Why Do Volcanoes Cool the Earth? Sulfate aerosols form the cornerstone of volcanic cooling mechanisms by scattering incoming solar radiation. When sunlight encounters these microscopic particles in the stratosphere, much of the energy reflects back into space rather than warming the surface. This process reduces the total solar energy reaching Earth, creating measurable temperature drops that scientists monitor through satellite observations and ground-based instruments. The effectiveness of volcanic cooling depends more on sulfur gas content than total eruption size. El Chichon's 1982 eruption in Mexico demonstrated this principle by producing significant climate effects despite being smaller than other eruptions, primarily because it released high concentrations of sulfur-rich gases. Weather science calculations show that sulfur dioxide converts to sulfuric acid droplets within weeks, forming a reflective layer that persists far longer than volcanic ash clouds. Stratospheric haze formation amplifies the cooling effect by spreading particles across hemispheres through jet stream circulation. Unlike ash that falls within days, these aerosols remain suspended for two to three years, continuously reflecting sunlight and maintaining cooler global temperatures throughout this period. Duration and Persistence of Climate Effects Volcanic eruptions create immediate weather disruptions through ash clouds that block sunlight and reduce visibility for days or weeks. These short-term impacts affect local and regional weather patterns, causing temperature drops and disrupting air travel. The ash settles relatively quickly, but sulfate aerosols continue affecting climate for much longer periods. Medium-term cooling effects persist for several years as stratospheric particles gradually settle or break down. Temperature monitoring after major eruptions shows cooling peaks approximately one year after the event, then slowly returns toward pre-eruption levels over three to five years. Weather science models track these changes to separate volcanic cooling from other climate influences like greenhouse gas emissions. Long-term feedback mechanisms can extend volcanic climate impact for decades through ice-ocean interactions. When volcanic cooling increases polar ice coverage, the enhanced reflectivity of ice surfaces creates additional cooling that persists after aerosols dissipate. Some research suggests massive prehistoric eruptions triggered volcanic winters lasting years or even centuries through these compounding effects. Regional vs Global Weather Patterns The location of volcanic eruptions significantly determines their weather science implications and geographic reach. Tropical eruptions near the equator typically affect both Northern and Southern Hemispheres as atmospheric circulation carries particles across latitudes. Mount Pinatubo's equatorial location enabled its aerosols to spread worldwide, creating truly global temperature reductions. Mid-latitude and high-latitude eruptions tend to produce hemisphere-limited effects, with particles remaining primarily in the hemisphere where the volcano erupted. These eruptions still impact vast regions but rarely create the worldwide climate changes associated with tropical volcanic eruptions. Weather patterns shift differently depending on eruption location, with some volcanoes enhancing rainfall in subtropical zones while others disrupt polar vortex circulation during winter months. Local weather effects near active volcanoes include volcanic fog known as "vog," which reduces air quality and creates hazy conditions for communities downwind. These regional impacts differ substantially from the global climate effects that capture scientific attention and affect weather systems across continents. Volcanic Emissions and Atmospheric Chemistry Different volcanic gases produce contrasting climate effects that weather science must account for when predicting eruption impacts. Carbon dioxide released by volcanoes acts as a greenhouse gas that warms the atmosphere, but eruptions emit far less CO2 than the sulfur dioxide that drives cooling effects. The balance between these competing influences determines whether specific volcanic eruptions cause net warming or cooling. Water vapor represents another significant volcanic emission, with some eruptions discharging massive quantities that temporarily increase atmospheric moisture. This additional water vapor can enhance precipitation patterns and contribute to flooding in regions hundreds of miles from the eruption site. Atmospheric chemistry changes following major eruptions affect ozone concentrations, cloud formation processes, and the chemical reactions that regulate air quality globally. The altitude volcanic plumes reach determines their climate impact duration and geographic extent. Tropospheric eruptions affect local weather but have limited climate significance as particles wash out quickly through precipitation. Stratospheric eruptions inject materials above the weather layer where they persist and spread globally, creating the sustained climate effects that make volcanic eruptions significant factors in weather science. Climate Change and Future Volcanic Impacts Modern climate change may amplify the cooling effects of future large volcanic eruptions by up to 15 percent by 2100. As greenhouse gases warm the troposphere, this atmospheric layer expands upward, paradoxically allowing volcanic plumes from major eruptions to reach higher altitudes. The stratosphere simultaneously cools under climate change, enabling aerosols to travel higher and spread more efficiently through accelerated wind patterns. Smaller eruptions face the opposite effect, with the expanding troposphere blocking their plumes from reaching the stratosphere where global climate impacts occur. This means volcano climate impact may become increasingly concentrated in the largest eruptions while moderate volcanic events lose their ability to affect worldwide weather patterns. Weather science researchers continue studying these interactions to improve climate predictions that account for both human-caused warming and natural volcanic cooling. Understanding Volcanic Weather Science Volcano climate impact demonstrates nature's capacity to alter global temperatures through atmospheric chemistry and particle physics. Weather science has evolved from Benjamin Franklin's early observations to sophisticated satellite monitoring and computer models that track volcanic aerosols in real time. These advances help societies prepare for agricultural impacts, temperature changes, and weather pattern disruptions following major volcanic eruptions. The interplay between volcanic eruptions and climate remains an active research area as scientists work to distinguish natural cooling from greenhouse warming trends. Understanding these mechanisms provides context for Earth's climate history and improves forecasts of future weather patterns in a changing world where both volcanic activity and human emissions shape atmospheric conditions. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can volcanic eruptions help reduce global warming? While volcanic eruptions temporarily cool the planet by reflecting sunlight, the cooling effect only lasts a few years and cannot offset long-term greenhouse gas warming. The sulfate aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere, and temperatures return to their warming trend. 2. Do all volcanoes affect climate the same way? No, only large explosive eruptions that inject sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere create significant climate impacts. Smaller eruptions and effusive lava flows typically produce minimal climate effects because their emissions remain in the lower atmosphere where particles quickly settle. 3. How do scientists predict the climate impact of a volcanic eruption? Scientists use satellite measurements to track sulfur dioxide emissions and plume height, then apply computer models to forecast aerosol spread and temperature changes. The eruption's location, size, and sulfur content help determine whether it will cause regional or global cooling. 4. Are underwater volcanic eruptions different from land-based eruptions? Underwater eruptions rarely affect climate because ocean water absorbs most gases and prevents them from reaching the stratosphere. Only extremely shallow submarine eruptions or those that break the surface can release enough material into the atmosphere to influence weather patterns. Originally published on Science Times The Washoe County coroner has identified the fatally man shot by police on the Wells Avenue Bridge last Tuesday. The Medical Examiner's Office says 27-year-old Michael J. Johnson died at the scene and says the manner of death is classified as 'homicide.' The coroner says he was shot several times. The investigation is ongoing. FEBRUARY 4, 2026: Reno Police say the officer injured in Tuesday's deadly shooting on the Wells Avenue Bridge is now out of the hospital. Additional details about the officer's injuries were not released. The investigation remains ongoing. ORIGINAL STORY: A person has died following a shooting involving Reno Police on the Wells Avenue Bridge on Tuesday evening. Officers arrived on scene for a report of a welfare check around 4 p.m., according to a release from the Reno Police Department. They made contact with someone and spoke with them for several minutes before the shooting happened around 4:15 p.m., according to a release from the Washoe County Sheriff's Office. The person was pronounced dead at the scene. An RPD officer was injured in the incident. They were treated at the hospital and are stable. An RPD spokesperson says that the officer is in good spirits, and RPD hopes they will be released soon. There is a heavy police presence on Wells Avenue from Second Street to Sixth Street. People are advised to avoid the area. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation with help from the Sparks Police Department. Anyone who may have seen what happened or has information is asked to contact the Washoe County Sheriffs Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 or submit information anonymously through Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900, referencing case WC26-614. If running for office is on your mind, one calendar date matters more than it might first appear. The Nevada Secretary of States Office is reminding people interested in running for a non-judicial office that the candidate filing period opens in March. Still, there is a key requirement that comes first. Prospective candidates must be registered to vote in the jurisdiction they seek to represent for at least 30 days before filing. That clock runs out on February 11. It is the final day people can register to vote or update an existing registration to meet the requirement. Registration updates can be made online at VOTE.NV.gov. The rule comes from Assembly Bill 491, approved during the 2025 legislative session. It requires judicial and non-judicial candidates, with the exception of candidates for federal office or district attorney, to be registered voters in the area they would represent if elected. The non-judicial candidate filing period runs from March 2 to March 13. State election officials say candidates should use the time now to confirm eligibility and prepare the required paperwork. Filing instructions, forms, and locations are available on the Secretary of States website. Even for people not planning a run for office, the state says this is a good moment to double-check voter registration information ahead of the 2026 election cycle. Updated records help ensure voters receive election updates, sample ballots, and other materials. Questions can be directed to the Secretary of States Elections Division at NVElect@sos.nv.gov or by calling (775) 687-8683. HONG KONG (AP) Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in prison in the longest punishment given so far under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the citys dissent. Lai, 78, was convicted in December of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security, and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. The maximum penalty for his conviction was life imprisonment. His co-defendants, six former employees of his Apple Daily newspaper and two activists, received prison terms of between 6 years and 3 months, and 10 years on collusion-related charges. Lai smiled and waved at his supporters when he arrived for the sentence. But before he left the courtroom, he looked serious, as some people in the public gallery cried. When asked about whether they would appeal, his lawyer Robert Pang said no comment. Lai's daughter says he will die a martyr in prison The democracy advocate's arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence. The government insists the case has nothing to do with a free press, saying the defendants used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed China and Hong Kong. Lai was one of the first prominent figures to be arrested under the security law in 2020. Within a year, some of Apple Dailys senior journalists also were arrested and the newspaper shut down in June 2021. Lais sentencing could heighten Beijings diplomatic tensions with foreign governments, which have criticized Lai's conviction and sentencing. U.S. President Donald Trump, who is expected to visit China in April, said he felt so badly after the verdict and noted he spoke to Chinese leader Xi Jinping about Lai and asked him to consider his release. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on X that Lai's sentencing is an unjust and tragic conclusion to the case, urging authorities to grant Lai humanitarian parole. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government also has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. U.K. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the prosecution politically motivated," saying the prison term is tantamount to a life sentence. In a statement, Lais son, Sebastien, said the draconian prison term was devastating for his family and life-threatening for his father. It signifies the total destruction of the Hong Kong legal system and the end of justice, he said. His sister Claire called the sentence heartbreakingly cruel in the same statement. If this sentence is carried out, he will die a martyr behind bars, she said. Hong Kong leader John Lee said Lais sentence demonstrated the rule of law, citing his serious crimes. Its bringing great satisfaction to the people, he said in a statement. In Beijing, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Lai is a Chinese citizen and called him a major planner and participant in a series of anti-China destabilizing activities in Hong Kong. He urged relevant countries to respect the rule of law in Hong Kong. Judges ruled Lai was the mastermind Lai founded Apple Daily, a now-defunct newspaper known for its critical reports against the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing. He was arrested in August 2020 under the security law that was used in a yearslong crackdown on many of Hong Kongs leading activists. In their ruling, three government-vetted judges wrote that the starting point of Lais sentence was increased because they found him to be the mastermind of the conspiracies. But they also reduced his penalty because they accepted that Lais age, health condition and solitary confinement would cause his prison life to be more burdensome than that of other inmates. Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence, they said As regards the others, it is difficult to distinguish their relative culpability. They took into account that Lai is serving a prison term of five years and nine months in a separate fraud case and ruled that 18 years of Lais sentence in the security case should be served consecutively to that prison term. Urania Chiu, lecturer in law at Oxford Brookes University, said the case is significant for its broad construction of seditious intent and application of the term collusion with foreign forces to certain activities by the media. The implication is particularly alarming for journalists and those working in academia, she said. Offering and publishing legitimate critiques of the state, which often involves engagement with international platforms and audiences, may now easily be construed as collusion, Chiu said. Lai has been in custody for more than five years. In January, Pang said Lai suffered health issues including heart palpitations, high blood pressure and diabetes. The prosecution said a medical report noted Lais general health condition remained stable. The government said his solitary confinement was at Lai's wish. Co-defendants get reduced sentences The former Apple Daily staffers and activists involved in Lais case entered guilty pleas, which helped reduce their sentences Monday. They earlier admitted to the prosecution charge that said they conspired with Lai to request foreign forces to impose sanctions or blockades, or engage in other hostile activities against Hong Kong or China. The convicted journalists are publisher Cheung Kim-hung, associate publisher Chan Pui-man, editor-in-chief Ryan Law, executive editor-in-chief Lam Man-chung, executive editor-in-chief responsible for English news Fung Wai-kong and editorial writer Yeung Ching-kee. They received prison terms ranging between six years and nine months, to 10 years. The two activists, Andy Li and Chan Tsz-wah, were sentenced to six years and three months, and seven years and three months respectively. The penalties for Cheung, Chan and Yeung, alongside the two activists, were reduced in part because they served as prosecution witnesses and the judges said their evidence had significantly contributed to the conviction of Lai. Before sunrise, dozens of people stood in line outside the court building to secure a seat in the courtroom. One of them was former Apple Daily employee Tammy Cheung. Whatever happens, its an end at least well know the outcome, Cheung said before the sentence was delivered. Case considered a blow to Hong Kong media Lai founded Apple Daily in 1995, two years before the former British colony returned to Chinese rule. Its closure in 2021 shocked the local press scene. Hong Kong ranked 140th out of 180 territories in the press-freedom index compiled by media freedom organization Reporters Without Borders in 2025, far from its 18th place in 2002. Steve Li, chief superintendent of the police forces National Security Department, welcomed the heavy sentence on Lai. Obviously, he has done nothing good for Hong Kong that could serve as a basis for his mitigation, he told reporters. The government said it will confiscate assets related to Lai's crime. Human Rights Watch's Asia Director Elaine Pearson said the harsh 20-year-sentence is effectively a death sentence, calling it cruel and unjust. Associated Press writer Chan Ho-him contributed to this report TOKYO (AP) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's gamble that her personal popularity would lead to big election gains for her struggling party paid off hugely. On Monday, she began the process of translating that new power, made manifest in a two-thirds supermajority gained in parliamentary elections the day before, into what she hopes will be sweeping conservative legislation that will shift Japanese security, immigration, economic and social policies. The first steps include reappointing her Cabinet and pushing forward on a delayed budget and the votes next week that will reelect her as prime minister. Takaichi told reporters Monday that her efforts are aimed at making Japan safe, strong and prosperous. We have no time to bask in the afterglow of the (election) victory. Through this election, the people showed their determination to join me in the challenge, she said. I'm not afraid of making challenges and I will not sway. I will make a decision and accomplish it. Takaichis Liberal Democratic Party, or LDP, alone secured 316 seats, comfortably surpassing a 261-seat absolute majority in the 465-member lower house, the more powerful of Japan's two-chamber parliament, officials said. That is a record since the party's foundation in 1955. With the 36 seats won by its new ally, Japan Innovation Party, the ruling coalition won 352 seats. A smiling Takaichi placed a big red ribbon above each winners name on a signboard at LDP headquarters as accompanying party executives applauded. Despite the lack of a majority in the upper house, the huge jump from the preelection share in the more powerful lower house allows Takaichi to make progress on policies seeking to boost Japans economy and military as tensions grow with China and she tries to nurture ties with the United States. Takaichi said she would be humble and seek support from the opposition while firmly pushing forward with her policy goals. Takaichi is popular, but the LDP, which has ruled Japan for most of the last seven decades, has been hit with funding and religious scandals. She called Sundays early election after only three months in office, hoping to turn that around while her popularity is high. Popular leader Takaichi, who took office as Japans first female leader in October, pledged to work, work, work, and her style, which is seen as both playful and tough, has resonated with younger fans who say they weren't previously interested in politics. The opposition, despite the formation of a new centrist alliance and a rising far-right, was too splintered to be a real challenger. The new opposition alliance of LDPs former coalition partner, Buddhist-backed dovish Komeito and the liberal-leaning Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan fell to less than one-third of their combined preelection share of 167 seats. Takaichi was betting with this election that her LDP party, together with its new partner, the JIP, would secure a majority. U.S. President Donald Trump in a post on his Truth Social platform Sunday congratulated Takaichi "on a LANDSLIDE Victory in todays very important Vote. She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time. Akihito Iwatake, a 53-year-old office worker, said he welcomed the big LDP win because he felt the party became too liberal in recent years. With Takaichi shifting things more toward the conservative side, I think that brought this positive result, he said. Takaichi's policies Japan has recently seen far-right populists gain ground, such as the anti-globalist and surging nationalist party Sanseito. Exit polls projected a big gain for Sanseito. The first major task for Takaichi when the lower house reconvenes in mid-February is to work on a budget bill, delayed by the election, to fund economic measures that address rising costs and sluggish wages. Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to bolster Japans offensive military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from the countrys postwar pacifist principles. She has been pushing for tougher policies on foreigners, anti-espionage and other measures that resonate with a far-right audience, but ones that experts say could undermine civil rights. Takaichi also wants to increase defense spending in response to Trumps pressure for Japan to spend more. She now has time to work on these policies, without an election until 2028. Divisive policies Though Takaichi said she's seeking to win support for policies seen as divisive in Japan, she largely avoided discussing ways to fund soaring military spending, how to fix diplomatic tension with China and other issues. In her campaign speeches, Takaichi enthusiastically talked about the need for government spending to fund crisis management investment and growth, such as measures to strengthen economic security, technology and other industries. Takaichi also seeks to push tougher measures on immigration, including stricter requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on foreign residents. Masato Kamikubo, a politics professor at Ritsumeikan University, said most people are not familiar with her policies, but were attracted by her image, "like her perceived tough stance on security and her remark that angered China, something rather vague." Associated Press journalists Mayuko Ono and Hiromi Tanoue in Tokyo and Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report. The work has been done and shes ready for her reveal. This Tuesday, February 10th, marks the grand reopening of The Castro (formerly the Castro Theater) after two years of thoughtful renovations to preserve the character and add much-needed improvements. To celebrate this milestone, the legendary Sam Smith will host a twenty-day residency, To Be Freewhich sold out minutes after it was announced. Sam Smith kicks off the Castro's reopening with a 20-day residency. (Courtesy of @thecastro_sf) Between the initial demand, the upcoming onslaught of talent set to rotate through the gayborhood (Kim Petras, Father John Misty, and The Indigo Girls for starters), as well as frequent screenings of iconic films, its a safe bet that youll be visiting The Castro soon. Come early and stay late with these neighborhood treasures guaranteed to make your night more memorable. The Pre-Show Lineup for The Castro Lets start with the bevs. Leave work early and have your group assemble at Blush Wine Bar (476 Castro St.) for glasses of wine at half the price from 4pm to 6pm. Blush has an impressive range of 30+ options of beer, bubbles, rose, white, and red, along with small plates and entrees. Thirsting for something a little stronger? Head up Market Street to Santeria Margarita Bar (2251 Market St.) for $9 margaritas, sangria, and a long list of tasty apps (nachos, Brussels sprouts, tacos, churros) for $7-9. Whether youre sitting in the adorable parklet or cozying up at the stylish bar inside, these deals are hot and ready Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm. One of Market Street's hottest new destinations, Bar 49 (Courtesy of @barfortyninesf) Just down the street, Bar 49 (2295 Market St.) is one of the hottest new destinations on Market and is guaranteed to have a lively and diverse crowdperfect for getting the energy up before your show. If you go between 4pm and 6pm, Monday through Friday, you can get discounted drinks ($2-$3 off) as well as $10 frose, spritz, and frozen margaritas. Andiamo to the charming Italian restaurant just off of Castro and 18th, Poesia (4072 18th St.), which serves happy hour cocktails for $10 from 5pm to 6:30pm every day, as well as a rotating list of delicious snack-sized plates. Sit at the bar or reserve a table on the back patio to make a dinner date out of the evening. Indulge in some of the classics or choose one of the regular dinner specials. All of their pasta is made from scratch and the flavors will have you returning on the reg. Craving something a little lighter? Head west on 18th just past Molly Stones to Takara Sushi (4243 18th St.) for some of the neighborhoods freshest and most innovative sushi. There are countless rolls, nigiri (a personal favorite is the snow crab leg), as well as a 10-piece omakase for less than $80. Poesia, Italian with a hint of romance. (Josie Jeffries) Where to Go After a Show at The Castro The cherry on top of your fun night might actually be a cookie. Practically next door to the venue, Hot Cookie (207 Castro St.) boasts a range of scrumptious flavors baked to perfection, as well as delightful treats like the Fruity Freddy (a Fruity Pebbles-laced Rice Krispie treat). There will be a line; embrace it. Post-cookie, head next door to Twin Peaks (401 Castro St.). This lively bar is often referred to as the gay Cheers and is a classic for a very good reason. Enjoy an Irish coffee, $5 drafts, whiffs of cinnamon cookies from the neighbors, and some of the best people-watching in the city, thanks to large windows facing Castro and Market. This bar is cash only, so prepare ahead or risk standing in line at the ATM upstairs. If youre (literally) hungry for more, Orphan Andy's (3991 17th St.), one of the most iconic and heavily decorated diners in SF, is open 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays, and til midnight on Thursdays. From pancakes to chicken-fried steak, it's highly likely theyll have what you're craving at any hour. The Lobby Bar has a swank, speakeasy kind of vibe for post-show fun. (Courtesy of @thehotelcastro) Taking a date to the show? Head over to the swanky Lobby Bar (4230 18th St.) after the curtain drops for some serious vibes, as well as a range of inventive cocktails and mocktails to round out the night. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - Ethiopia has accused neighbouring Eritrea of escalating military aggression by deploying troops deep into Ethiopian territory and collaborating with armed groups operating along its borders loading......... Malibu, CA, Feb 9, 2026 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Dryden Gold Corp. ( CVE:DRY ) ( DRYGF:OTCMKTS ) ( X7W:FRA ) is advancing exploration across its district-scale land package in the Dryden District of Northwestern Ontario, following the release of multiple high-grade near-surface gold drill results at its Gold Rock target area. In a recent interview on The Ellis Martin Report and Money Talk Radio, Dryden Gold President and CEO Trey Wasser discussed the company's ongoing exploration program, which is fully funded for approximately 32,000 metres of drilling. Recent results include both ultra-high-grade gold intercepts and wide zones of lower-grade mineralization that may support an open-pit starter scenario. Drilling at Gold Rock has identified previously unknown stacked hanging wall and footwall structures, expanding the scale and complexity of the system beyond earlier interpretations. The mineralization remains near surface and open along strike, with exploration continuing to define the overall footprint of the system. Beyond Gold Rock, Dryden Gold is advancing several regional targets within its approximately 70,000-hectare land package, including Mud Lake, Sheridan, and the Hinman project. The Hinman target hosts an extensive gold anomaly spanning more than eight kilometres of strike and represents a different style of gold mineralization with potential for large-scale development. Dryden Gold benefits from excellent infrastructure and year-round access, including proximity to the Trans-Canada Highway and established logging roads. The company maintains a strong treasury following recent warrant exercises and continues to report steady exploration progress across multiple targets. To Listen to the Interview, please visit: https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/G029G5LA About Dryden Gold Corp. Dryden Gold Corp. (CVE:DRY) (OTCMKTS:DRYGF) (FRA:X7W) is an exploration company focused on the discovery of high-grade gold mineralization listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and traded on the OTCQB. The Company has a strong management team and Board of Directors comprised of experienced individuals with a track record of building shareholder value through property acquisition and consolidation, exploration success, and mergers and acquisitions. Dryden Gold controls a 100% interest in a dominant strategic land position in the Dryden District of Northwestern Ontario. Dryden Gold acknowledges all Indigenous Peoples and that it is operating on the traditional homelands of the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and Eagle Lake First Nation. Dryden Gold's property package includes historic gold mines but has seen limited modern exploration. The property hosts high-grade gold mineralization over 50km of potential strike length along the Manitou-Dinorwic deformation zone. The property hosts high-grade gold mineralization over 50km of potential strike length along the Manitou-Dinorwic deformation zone. The property has excellent infrastructure, enjoys collaborative relationships with First Nations communities and benefits from proximity to an experienced mining workforce. About The Ellis Martin Report The Ellis Martin Report (TEMR) and Money Talk Radio feature interviews with industry leaders in mining, biotech, energy, and technology. The program is globally syndicated through multiple financial platforms and streaming services. Related Companies Tripoli, Libya (PANA) Members of Libya's Structured Dialogue Governance Track met for five days between 1 to 5 February in their second formal session, and focused on the electoral bottleneck, including completing the Board of the High National Election Commission (HNEC) and overcoming the impasse on amending the electoral framework We also have Luca Russignan from Capgemini looking ahead into the year ahead as he examines the four forces shaping the insurance playbook in 2026. Our regular authors are in attendance including a new interviewer in our Lights, Camera, Actuary feature from Bolton Associates as Rupa Pithiya interviews Howard Dale, an actuarial independent consultant, on how his career path moved into his current role. We look forward to welcoming you back next month. Let me let you in on a little secret: leftists hate personal thrift. They believe saving money is a fools errand since their goal is to get you to rely on Big Brother for everything you need for life, which they define as what Big Brother thinks you are entitled to. Advertisement Those advocating for a Big Brother world present themselves as selfless protectors of the weak who are eminently pragmatic. But, in real life, they are some of the most avaricious individuals on the face of the earth. While vociferously rejecting all things material, many live entirely consumer-driven lives. Lets take a moment and check off some of the habits of the average under-45 progressive: They like Starbucks, where the average spend per visit is $3-$8, with 49% of revenue from customers aged 2540. The average Starbucks consumer spends $1,200 to $1,500 a year, with the average even higher for the 18-34 age bracket. They depend on cell phones, with 97% of individuals owning a smartphone paying an average of $120 and $160 a month for their plan. They demand internet access, with an average monthly cost between $65 and $105. They own carsor at least, 74% of the under-50 crowd do. The average all-in cost of a car today is $965 a month. Notably, in 2024, 1.73 million vehicles were repossessed, the most since 2009, during the Great Recession, according to data from Cox Automotive and Experian. Many own houses. 55-60% of adults under 50 own a home, with only 40-45% renting. The average rent today is $1,750- $1,900 per month. For home ownership, the average cost is $3,500 to $4,000 a month (although youre getting equity). They indulge themselves. The under 45 crowd frequently has its food delivered, which runs about $400-$500 a month. The subscription and digital lifestyle add another $50 to $120 a month. Fashion and personal aesthetics rack up another $200-$400 a month. Fitness and wellness memberships, apparel, and such average another $100 a month. Travel and mini-trips are de rigueur among young people, though no monetary figures are readily available. Advertisement Image created using AI. The best available information indicates that young people under 35 spend an additional $9,200 to $24,000 a year on discretionary spending compared to what a frugal, involved, and wealth-building individual would spend. Advertisement Discretionary is an innocuous term that is not nearly as appreciated as it should be. Another way of looking at it is that the choices young people make keep them poor in the long run, since they dont have savings to draw on for emergencies and lifetime planning. The median average available cash at any given time for someone under 35 is $3,240. Surprisingly, it isnt much better with age: the median average 75-year-old has ready access to only $9,300. Most Americans live paycheck to paycheck, especially those under 45. Advertisement Under-35s have: Lower incomes Higher student loan burdens Higher rent burdens Less time for compounding Higher discretionary spending (travel, dining, subscriptions) These numbers are far worse than they were 30 years ago. Its reasonable to ask what has changed. While I dont think K-12 ever did a very good job of preparing young people for the financial realities of life, the best available information indicates that most students still graduate without a meaningful financial education. Worse, their parents are frequently as clueless as they are. Advertisement Why? Theres a real answer here, and its not kids these days. Advertisement What youre seeing is the predictable outcome of structural, economic, political, and educational forces that make it unusually hard for young adults to develop financial competence before theyre thrown into the deep end. I believe that this is by design. Its not a big jump either to connect lack of financial competence with reasoning in general! Todays young adults navigate a world defined by rapid change, economic volatility, and constant digital comparison, which can delay the development of long-term confidence and resilience. Emotional maturity emerges later because the traditional stabilizersaffordable housing, predictable careers, early family formationarrive later or not at all. In contrast, adults in the 1970s typically entered stable roles earlier, gaining responsibility through lived experience rather than prolonged uncertainty. Younger adults today are often highly self-aware to a fault, empathetic, and expressive, but struggle with sustained stress tolerance, delayed gratification, and long-range planning. Their emotional landscape is less linear, more adaptive, and more reactive to external pressures, reflecting a world that demands flexibility rather than predictability. It is not enough to recognize the problem; we must confront an entire system of individuals and groups, from teachers groups to dedicated Marxists and to the many who despise capitalism and worked for two generations to ensure Johnny cant read and understand his history, that he becomes disassociated from other people, that he is wedded to Starbucks capitalism (that is, meaningless spending), and that he never fully matures, including embracing the most mature step of all: marriage and children. Those who foment this infantilizing lifestyle are our enemies as surely as any foreign nation that actively subverts us. We will be unable to fix the problem so that future generations can return to the lessons, ideas, and principles that guided us for more than 200 years. The Starbucks effect must come to an end as we return to reason, sanity, patriotism, and individualism that is America. God Bless America! Author, Businessman, Thinker, and Strategist. Read more about Allan, his background, and his ideas to create a better tomorrow. Washingtons answer to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative begins in Armenia, and Vice President JD Vance is in the South Caucasus to pave the way. The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) may serve as the foundation stone of a broader network of transportation and economic corridors designed to secure critical Eurasian supply chains for the United States and to counter Chinese and Russian influence. However, the region lies on the periphery of U.S. geopolitical engagement; therefore, TRIPPs implementation will require pragmatic solutions and a return to realpolitik in order to avoid aggressive countermeasures by other regional powers. Advertisement The Race for the Eurasian Balkans: BRI vs. TRIPP There is a vast landmass that Zbigniew Brzezinski famously described as the Eurasian Balkans, stretching from the Armenian Highlands in eastern Turkiye through the Caspian Sea, to the great mountain ranges bordering Russia to the south, and China to the west. Central Eurasia has emerged as a key arena of contemporary great-power competition among China, Russia, Iran, Turkiye, and, more recently, the United States. Beyond its strategic locationbordered by Afghanistan, Iran, and Chinathe region is exceptionally rich in natural resources. The Caspian Basin ranks among the worlds largest fossil fuel reserves, while Central Asia contains some of the globes most significant rare earth mineral deposits. Advertisement The region was formerly part of the Soviet Union and the Russian Empire before that. Following the dissolution of the USSR in the 1990s, nations that regained their independence opened their economies to foreign investment, with China rapidly emerging as the regions leading investor. Indeed, it was in Central Eurasia that China articulated its grand global strategy: the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In 2013, in Astana, Kazakhstan, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the Silk Road Economic Belt, which later evolved into Beijings flagship geopolitical project. Today, the BRI seeks to expand Chinas economic and political reach from Latin America through Africa to Asia; since its inception, however, Central Eurasia has remained one of its primary focal points. Regional states have been among the largest recipients of BRI funding, with Kazakhstan, in particular, standing out. In the first half of 2025, Kazakhstan became the worlds leading recipient of Chinese capital flows, attracting approximately USD 23 billion in just six monthsmore than three times the amount received by Thailand, the second-largest recipient. Since 2013, Central Eurasia has attracted over USD 100 billion in BRI investments, making it one of the initiatives most important destinations. Most projects in the region focus on infrastructurerailways, highways, pipelines, border crossings, and portsaimed at connecting Chinese industry not only to regional resources but also, through expanded transport links, to markets in the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. Advertisement The United States is now pursuing a revised grand strategy in Eurasia to counter Chinas expanding influence on the continent. This strategy includes efforts to normalize relations with Russia, reduce commitments in Europe, expand the Abraham Accords in the Middle East, limit Indias strategic hedging, and reinforce U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific. Although Central Asia and the South Caucasus have historically occupied a marginal position in U.S. foreign policy thinking, this changed under the second Trump administration. In line with its new National Security Strategy, Washington seeks to secure access to critical supply chains and materials as a pillar of economic security in a global value chain landscape dominated by China. Accordingly, President Donald Trump invited the leaders of the five Central Asian states to the White House in November 2025 and announced a USD 20 billion investment package focused primarily on technology and critical mineral extraction. To ensure physical U.S. access to the region, however, a transit corridor must first be establishedthis is the intended role of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP). Build TRIPP, Not TRAP! Advertisement At first glance, TRIPP may appear to be a modest and relatively insignificant infrastructure project in a country of limited geostrategic weight: Armenia. The planned corridor between Azerbaijan and its autonomous exclave of Nakhchivan, running through southern Armenia, is a mere 42-kilometer route to be developed and secured by U.S. companiesa small fraction of the thousands of miles of trade routes under American oversight worldwide. Yet TRIPP differs fundamentally from conventional infrastructure projects. It could serve as the cornerstone of a broader geoeconomic and geopolitical strategy aimed at countering Chinas Belt and Road Initiative in Eurasia. By securing U.S. access to Central Asia via Turkiye, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, the corridor could also become a strategically significant platform for maneuvering vis-a-vis Russia, Iran, and ultimately China. TRIPP would run along the Armenia-Iran border, in some sections only a few hundred meters from Iranian territoryhence Tehrans longstanding and vocal opposition. The timing of its announcement is notable: TRIPP was unveiled just over a month after Operation Midnight Hammer in the summer of 2025, during which the U.S. Air Force struck three Iranian nuclear sites. Moreover, the TRIPP Implementation Framework (TIF) was adopted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on January 13, 2026, amid the largest mass protests in Iran since the Islamic Revolution. These developments underscore the seriousness with which Washington approaches the initiative. Advertisement The TRIPP Implementation Framework demonstrates that the United States views the corridor as part of an integrated system, rather than a standalone 42-kilometer route. It envisions not only rail and highway connections but also oil and gas pipelines, electricity transmission lines, and fiber-optic networks, complemented by administrative facilities, utilities, and comprehensive safety and security systems. The project represents a long-term U.S. commitment: the jointly established American-Armenian TRIPP Development Company will receive development rights for an initial 49-year term, with an expected extension of an additional 50 yearsa vision for the 22nd century. On paper, TRIPP is a well-conceived plan to secure sustained American presence and interests in a region of growing geostrategic importance and to ensure Trans-Caspian connectivity amid intensifying great-power geoeconomic competition. It requires relatively limited financial investment, no military deployment, and could yield significant geopolitical dividends for both the United States and its regional partners. Even a 42-kilometer corridor has the potential to shift the regional balance of power westward and to facilitate an intraregional connectivity network capable of counterbalancing traditional and emerging routes controlled by Russia and China. Advertisement There are, however, some critical risks. TRIPP stands only a hairs breadth away from becoming a TRAP for the United States and its regional partners. The South Caucasus remains deeply scarred by violent conflicts: Armenia and Azerbaijan have yet to sign a peace treaty, and no agreement is in sight between Georgia and Russia. Tensions in the Middle East are widely expected to escalate in 2026, and any such development could destabilize Irans immediate neighborhoodfrom Azerbaijan through Armenia to Turkiyetriggering a domino effect that reignites regional conflicts. Tehran is likely to respond to perceived threats in its immediate vicinity with overwhelming force, and it already views TRIPP as a strategic challenge. Similarly, decision-makers in the Kremlin regard the South Caucasus as an area of paramount importance to Russias security and great-power status, making substantial Russian countermeasures to expanded regional U.S. involvement highly probable. Russia retains significant political and economic leverage in Armenia, including its largest foreign military base, and has demonstrated its willingness to employ these instruments if deemed necessary. In short, the South Caucasus has long served as a battlefield for competing regional powers, and its limited geopolitical capacity may not withstand the pressures of renewed superpower rivalry. Lets Export Realpolitik! The era of the liberal world order has ended; once again, realism shapes international relations. The strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must, wrote Thucydides two and a half millennia agoa maxim that has characterized power relations ever since. Yet todays dense web of international economic interdependence constrains the unchecked use of force and prevents the unmitigated dominance of the law of the jungle. Contemporary realpolitik does not signify the abandonment of pragmatism; rather, it reflects the growing primacy of pragmatic solutions over the ideological constraints of liberal internationalism. For TRIPP to succeed, it must be implemented through flexible, pragmatic approaches to critical challenges and potential confrontations. This includes acknowledging and addressing Russian concerns about shifts in the regional balance of power through coordination and cooperationranging from procurement contracts for construction companies to policy alignment with institutions such as the Eurasian Development Bank. Such measures could ensure that TRIPPs eastwest axis does not undermine existing northsouth connectivity. Interconnecting TRIPP to established transportation networks would further reduce perceptions of the corridor as an exclusive or potentially militarized conduit for NATO and its partners. Only through such calibrated strategies can assertiveor even aggressivecountermeasures be avoided, and only then can Trumps Route to Asias Heartland be sustainably secured. Dr. Peter Pal Kranitz is a Senior Research Fellow at the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs. Image: Public domain. When Fox Varian stood before a New York jury last month and described the moment her bandages were removed after a double mastectomy, her words were stark: Its so hard to face that you are disfigured for life. Advertisement What the jury saw was not a political mascot or an abstract policy debate, but a young woman whose body had been permanently altered during adolescence, long before she had the maturity or perspective to grasp the lifelong consequences of that choice. After deliberation, the jury awarded Ms. Varian $2 million in damages, finding that her psychologist and surgeon failed to meet the standards of care in recommending and performing a double mastectomy on a 16-year-old patient without sufficient informed consent. Advertisement Image created by ChatGPT Advertisement This marks the first time in U.S. history that a detransitioner has won a medical malpractice case related to gender-affirming procedures performed on a minor -- and it should serve as a wake-up call for medicine, media, and policymakers alike. It is essential to understand what this lawsuit was and was not. It was not a federal policy decision regarding funding for transgender clinics, nor was it about adult access to care. Adults have the legal capacity to make decisions about their bodies, even when those decisions involve risk, including the choice of assisted suicide. Advertisement It was a malpractice case based on core principles of medical ethics: whether clinicians followed established protocols, conducted comprehensive evaluations, and obtained genuine informed consent from a minor and her guardians before performing irreversible, non-therapeutic surgeries. The jury decided they did not. And they did so without considering the broader debates about gender identity. They concentrated on whether the providers acted reasonably and responsibly given the circumstances. Advertisement No matter how advocates frame the language, these procedures are permanent. A double mastectomy cannot be undone. Removed breasts do not grow back; reproductive capacity cannot be restored once certain interventions have taken place; alterations to anatomy and hormonal balance affect sexual function and health for life. These are not whimsical cosmetic choices or minor medical adjustments; they are significant transformations with lifelong consequences. A tattoo can be partially removed or covered once removed, sexual organs and sensations are gone for good. Advertisement Yet these facts were hidden, even from the patients mother, who testified that she only agreed to the surgery because she was repeatedly warned that her daughter might kill herself if it was not done. That kind of coercive framing -- conflating irreversible surgeries with suicide prevention -- is very concerning. It turns a clinical evaluation into a psychological pressure campaign. That is not informed consent. That is fear-based blackmail. For years, detransitioners were dismissed as isolated outliers -- rare, anecdotal, and background noise drowned out by narratives of affirmation and hope. But data now show dozens of civil lawsuits filed by individuals who regret the medical interventions they received as minors. The notion that detransitioning is extremely rare and thus insignificant no longer holds up. Many stories like Ms. Varians, where mental health diagnoses were not thoroughly examined and both reversible and irreversible treatments were mixed up, are widespread and could even go to court. These claims depend on the core principles of medical practice: careful diagnosis, risk disclosure, evaluation of alternatives, and especially consent that is voluntarily given with full understanding of the long-term impact. The American Medical Association states in its code of medical ethics, Informed consent to medical treatment is fundamental in both ethics and law. While this verdict has started to ripple through conservative and independent news outlets, major left-leaning publications have been notably quiet or lukewarm in their coverage. As of now, neither the New York Times nor the Washington Post has given sustained, front-page attention to what is arguably a historic medical-legal event. Jeffrey Epstein emails, yes. An earthquake in the transgender crusade, no. That silence is not new. The New York Times reported that the American Medical Association now recommends delaying gender-related surgery until patients reach adulthood. They attribute the change to the fierce backlash from the Trump administration and only reluctantly mention the aforementioned lawsuit at the end of the article. The American Academy of Pediatrics, watching out for the well-being of children and teenagers, continues to green-light gender mutilation surgery. This lack of coverage exposes a deeper issue: critical medical and legal developments are being interpreted through ideological lenses instead of neutral journalistic standards. When a patient wins a malpractice case against medical professionals for performing irreversible surgery on a minor, that is news, not a footnote. This case will not stand alone. According to court filings and reports, nearly three dozen similar lawsuits are now pending across the United States. Each focuses on the same fundamental question: did these clinicians follow reasonable standards of care and fully inform young patients and their families about the risks and permanence of these interventions? How will surgeons claim they are adhering to the standard of care when leading medical organizations recommend otherwise? Ms. Varians victory offers two lessons for health care providers. Precise documentation, interdisciplinary assessment, and honest disclosure are just as important in court as in the clinic. Irreversible treatment decisions for minors require more, not less, caution. Where this leads is uncertain. But if jurisprudence begins to align with informed-consent principles, pediatric gender medicine may soon look very different from what it does today. Sharks and medical malpractice attorneys have a keen nose for smelling blood in the water, especially when the blood involves well-funded hospitals, physicians, and psychologists. Detransitioners had, Better Call Saul. Medical malpractice carriers may deny coverage to physicians and hospitals performing these surgeries, leaving practitioners exposed to significant liability. Medicine has experienced paradigm shifts before. There were periods when harmful treatments were justified as progress. Lobotomies, forced sterilizations, and experimental surgeries were once defended as compassionate and scientific. History has not judged those chapters kindly. The permanent alteration of childrens developing bodies =- often without thorough psychological assessment, long-term outcome data, or fully informed consent -- will probably be viewed in a similar way. At the very least, this lawsuit should encourage honest reflection. Medicine must be based on evidence and ethics, not ideology. We are already witnessing politically radicalized nurses delivering medical or end-of-life care, depending on their patients political beliefs. And the media, especially outlets that claim principled objectivity, must cover these developments with the seriousness they deserve. Unless they want to fade into irrelevance like the Washington Post recently gutting a third of its staff. Ultimately, it is not activist slogans or policy battles that will render the final verdict, but the lives of the patients themselves who must live forever with decisions they were too young to fully understand. Brian C. Joondeph, M.D., is a physician and writer. Follow me on Twitter @retinaldoctor, Substack Dr. Brians Substack, Truth Social @BrianJoondeph, LinkedIn @Brian Joondeph and email [email protected]. Trump is impeached forever, declared Nancy Pelosi, voicing an accidental truth after Democrats impeached Trump for his phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky. Advertisement What Ms. Pelosi meant to say was that it did not matter whether Trump was or was not convicted, or even if the charges against him had merit. She had left her mark. The stain of impeachment would last forever. Thats what Speaker Nancy Pelosi meant. She laughed and smiled as she asserted that it would cling to Trump like a bad smell. He would never be able to wash it off. Advertisement Pelosi was right, but for the wrong reason. In fact, something else seems to be long-lasting, maybe forever. Impeachment, once a rare political tactic used once in a century, has become the first move in the Democrat party playbook. Whenever they can, they impeach. Advertisement I did it just because I could, President Bill Clinton once famously said about one of his transgressions, and the Democrats are basically saying we did it just because we could. What used to be a quack idea from the likes of congressional Kooks like Maxine Waters (Impeach 45) and cane-waving Al Green has become enshrined as Democrat party policy and ideology. Advertisement Image created using AI. Advertisement If Democrats regain the majority in the House of Representatives, they swear to impeach President Donald Trump for a third time. Maybe they think the third times a charm, but more likely, it will be strike three. They will just strike out. Advertisement Democrats deliberately ignore the fact that Trump was proven right about the facts of Bidens Ukrainian corruption, and as he was about the fact that he never called for an insurrection in any way, shape, or form. Both impeachments were a travesty of justice, not a stain on Trump but a permanent stain on Democrats. Pelosi and the Democrats formed a specially selected political posse to hunt down and lynch Trump for insurrection after he left office, deliberately hiding and destroying evidence that proved the opposite. We have all heard the wild charges that Trump wanted to grab the wheel of his car and drive down to the Capitol to lead violent rioters in a killing spree. Baloney. Even Special Prosecutors Robert Mueller and Jack Smith looked like fools when they made the charges. Democrats often routinely declare that six people were killed by violent rioters supposedly incited by Trump. None of it is true. All of it is false. The lies will remain lies, even if they are repeated by journalists at CNN, CBS, ABC, and MSNBC, or by late-night comedians like Jimmy Kimmel and Steve Colbert. Indeed, as 300,000 recently discovered tainted presidential ballots in Georgia attest, there is growing evidence of very serious 2020 election rigging. In short, Trump may have been right in believing that he won the 2020 election. Meanwhile, over a few short years, the Democrats have turned into the thing they said they hate. The supposed insurrection-hunters morphed into insurrection-starters. Real fires were started. Real buildings were defaced or burned down. Real people have died, with the top examples being the George Floyd riots of 2020 and the anti-ICE riots of 2025-26. Democrats from California to Chicago and from Massachusetts to Minnesota have embraced their own very real, very physical, very violent insurrection against Trump as their basic policy and as the icon for their base. Whether they are in control of Congress or just a state house or city hall in Minnesota, California, or New York, they have called for organized physical resistance to Federal immigration law. Democrat activists and shock troops from ANTIFA and BLM (Black Lives Matter), and others, come to demonstrations equipped with helmets, gas masks, metal bars, frozen bottles, protective vests, and sometimes even guns. These are not spontaneous demonstrations or grass-roots protests but well-funded military operations. What began with Barack Obamas call to Democrats to get in their face has become very real and very ugly. What began with Hillary Clintons blithe call for resistance in 2016 has become open rebellion in 2026. I want to tell you, Gorsuch, I want to tell you, Kavanaugh, you have released the whirlwind, and you will pay the price, declared Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer outside the US Supreme Court, threatening Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. You wont know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions, Senator Schumer declared, and a few months later, an armed man was arrested for planning to attack Justice Kavanaugh. There have also been very real attacks on some Democrat officials, such as Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who was gravely wounded when a paranoid schizophrenic shot her in 2011 at a political meeting, but the bulk of incendiary rhetoric is clearly coming from the left and the Democrats. Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker all say variations on the same theme: ICE, Trump, and the Republicans are the Gestapo or Nazis. We know what that means. TV host Steve Colbert says Nazis were better than Trump and federal agents. That is not a joke. It is a call for violence. Some of the dead and wounded were egged-on Democrat activists who were part of an organized stampede to impede federal law, most notably Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Both of them and their companions attacked Federal agents. They thought they were fighting Nazis. Some of the dead and wounded have been Republican or conservative politicians or intellectuals: Charlie Kirk, Republican Congressional Whip Steve Scalise and, of course, President Donald Trump himself, who was wounded in an assassination attempt. Their attackers thought they were Nazis. Since were talking about Nazis, lets recall that the Nazi playbook used by Hitler, Himmler, and Goebbels was built on labeling opponents as less than human so that attacking them would be acceptable. But in America, political violence and political extremism should not be acceptable. Routinely using impeachment and insurrection as political tools should not be acceptable. Democrats should be repudiated as individuals and as a party if they continue to use the twin strategies of impeachment and insurrection. All political violence must be condemned and prosecuted. We need politicians who look for ayes not those who exploit the Isinsurrection and impeachmentwhile casting dust in our eyes. As I mentioned earlier, the bee in my bonnet today is leftist media dishonesty. I think what triggered this particular bee was that I checked in yesterday with the Marin Independent Journal, the local paper for Marin County, California, the affluent, uber-leftist community in which I lived for twenty years. (For those wondering, no, I dont live there anymore.) The problem for Marin is that black students arent keeping up, and one local reporter, while trying to tactfully address that problem, ended up with a whopper of a euphemism. Advertisement To appreciate this essay, you need to know that Marin Countys population is 66% white and only a little over 2% black. (Hispanics are the second biggest group at 18%.) The median household income is $149,091. Blacks are not a part of this median. Also, Marin County is very, very Democrat, with Kamala receiving almost 81% of the vote in 2024, and Trump getting only 17%. About those blacks. Almost all live in a sequestered corner of Marin County called Marin City. It was a housing development started in 1942 to accommodate workers drawn to the nearby shipyard in Sausalito. An enormous number of these workers were blacks who fled the Jim Crow South, an exodus that continued until 1970. Advertisement Marin City is getting more ethnically diverse, but the single largest population group is blacks. The blacks live in the public housing. Although the median household income is $73,077, 11.5% of families live below the poverty line, and again, theyre mostly the black residents. One of the sad facts of black life in America is that blacks do not fare as well in school as other races do. I do not subscribe to the theory that this is an inherent failing in blacks. Instead, I think this is culturaland John McWhorters excellent 2001 book, Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America, delves into the enormous cultural pressures on young blacks not to do well in school. (Incidentally, I find this self-destructive cultural attitude unutterably tragic.) Advertisement A recent report from the Tamalpais Union High School District, which encompasses Marin City, had to report this unfortunate truth: Black students are not faring well and, indeed, are doing less well than they did just three years ago. Non-English speakers (presumably Hispanics, whether here legally or not, and perhaps some Asians) are doing very well, though. The Marin IJ reported on this study, and poor Keri Brenner, the articles author, had to handle this unpleasant reality. So please enjoy the first two paragraphs of her essay, which employs a euphemism so delicate that a Victorian lady talking about sex would be proud of her (emphasis mine): Advertisement English language learners in the Tamalpais Union High School District improved their grades significantly in the first semester of the 2025-26 school year, according to an administration report. However, the number of D, F and incomplete marks for students from certain ethnic backgrounds did not improve and got worse in some cases over the same time frame, the report said. Advertisement Its only thirteen paragraphs into the 17-paragraph essay that the truth comes out: At the same time [compared to thriving English language learners], poor grades for African American students increased at all three schools in the first semester. About 48% of 89 Black students districtwide had at least one D, F or incomplete mark, compared to an average of 35% in the previous three years. Advertisement As you think of the 300 Washington Post employees who were recently laid off, you must pity them just a little bit. No matter how hard you work at wokeness and propaganda, eventually reality strikes, and when it does, there are only so many ways you can deal with it. Poor Keri Brenner, laboring away at the much less prestigious Marin IJ, shows how challenging it is to bridge the chasm between reality and woke dreams. Regarding this image, I asked AI to create an image showing a diverse American 11th-grade classroom. That was my entire prompt. It came up with the rest on its own. California, which is expected to make Minnesota fraud look like loose change, has a gubernatorial election in November. There are now rumors swirling that Kamala Harris might jump into the race. Advertisement The June primary is the so-called jungle primarya free-for-all where voters can vote for any candidate, regardless of party. The top two vote-getters advance to the general election. Currently, both parties are nervous about splitting the vote between their top two candidates, since that could allow the opposing party to earn both top slots. The leading candidates for each party are: Advertisement Democrats Representative Eric Swalwell and former Representative Katie Porter. Representative Eric Swalwell and former Representative Katie Porter. Republicans Former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Sheriff Chad Bianco. There are other announced candidates in both parties. However, they have the same chance of being in the top two as Omar Ilhans winery has of selling Manischewitz wine. Some so-called second-tier candidates run because they truly believe they would make the best governor. Others might be running a vanity campaign. All of them will be able to have former gubernatorial candidate on their resume. (That sounds nice; maybe I should run.) Advertisement X screen grab. Advertisement Republicans, who account for about 25 percent of the registered voters, are dreaming of a Bianco versus Hilton general election. They might prefer one man over the other, but there is almost universal agreement on the elephant side that either Bianco or Hilton would save California from its monstrous failing leadership. (For more information about Californias disastrous Democrat government, just google North Korea.) The idea of two Republicans winning the top spots frightens Democrats like an ICE machine outside a 7-Eleven. Currently, Democrats maintain a supermajority in the legislature. This enables them to repeatedly pass communist laws and regulations. Advertisement The Democrats fear may explain why rumors are swirling that former Vice President Kamala word salad Harris might jump into the gubernatorial race. Yes, we know Harris said in July she was not going to run for governor. But this is the same woman who claimed in 2024 that Joe Biden was capable of being president when his dementia was obvious to most everyone. Harris also believed that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was a great selection for vice president. (Maybe for Somalia.) Advertisement If Harris jumps in, Democrats will immediately rally around her. They would likely abandon hapless candidates Swalwell and Porter. Swalwell could return to making love to Chinese spies, and Porter could yell at more of her employees. Just last week, Harriss TikTok and X accounts, which have been inactive since she lost the 2024 presidential election, were up and running again. Rebranded Headquarters (as in FBI?), Harris wants to hold onto all her followers, including 2024 presidential influencers Alyssa Milano, Dick Van Dyke, Smokey Robinson, Geraldo Rivera, and Jennifer Aniston. She will work with progressive organizations such as the radical far-far-far left People for the American Way. Officially, the rebranded accounts were called Headquarters67 as 67, which was Gen Z slang. But then the former Indian, now black, Harris discovered 67 was an outdated term. So, the handle was officially changed the next day to Headquarters68 although no one knows why. It may be relevant that, in restaurants, 68 means putting an item back on the menu. Will Harris supporters visit Headquarters and post photos of their latest nose ring or tattoo? Perhaps they will share videos of themselves proudly damaging law enforcement vehicles during protests demanding the release of criminal illegal aliens. After all, every community wants more murderers, rapists, sex traffickers, and drug peddlers roaming around their neighborhood. We will know in a few weeks if the rumors about Harris and the gubernatorial race are true. In the meantime, with the California jungle primary less than four months away, its a jungle out there takes on new meaning. Robin M. Itzler is a regular contributor to American Thinker. She is the founder and editor of Patriot Neighbors, a free weekly national newsletter, and can be reached at [email protected]. The Epstein files are turning onto a never-ending cornucopia of revelations, exposures, and embarrassment, though not at all in the way that the Left would prefer. Advertisement The latest of these involves Noam Chomsky, a scientist and left-wing political activist. Though not well-remembered today, Chomsky was in the final decades of the last century a serious force on the American Left. (At one point REM took him along on tour so that he could lecture their audiences before they began their set. Yeah, I know there have probably been better concerts.) Chomsky was quite a catch for the Left as a leading scientist in the field of linguistics, specifically the origins of language. He discovered that the rules of grammar, which are effectively universal in scope, are of biological origin, emerging from what he called deep structures (everybody else would have called them genes.) The fact that this discovery completely trashes the tabula rasa thesis that lies at the core of leftism is something neither he, nor anyone else, ever mentioned. Advertisement His political writings were nowhere near as impressive. Chomsky published a tsunami of books and pamphlets attacking the U.S. and praising whatever leftist dictatorship met with his approval. He liked to give this material a scholarly gloss by featuring lots of notes. The problem was, when you checked these notes, they often read See Chomsky, op cit. Chomsky, in other words, was getting his research from Chomsky. As regards Epstein, Chomsky was yet another addition to his collection of leading scientists. Epstein was a science groupie and enjoyed schmoozing with world-class researchers. While it might be too much to call it a friendship, the fact is that Epstein and Chomsky both kept in touch, largely through emails. (Though there's also a large and rather mysterious payment -- some $270,000 -- made by Epstein to Chomsky.) Advertisement Its these that are in the spotlight. During Epsteins second and eventually fatal go-round involving child-abuse accusations, Chomsky contacted Epstein with advice on how to handle the bad publicity. Ive watched the horrible way you are being treated in the press and the public. Its painful to see, but I think the best way to proceed is to ignore it. Advertisement Note that Epstein is clearly cast as the victim, with no reference at all to the girls that he abused and traded like bubble-gum cards. What the vultures dearly want is a public response, which then provides a public opening for venomous attacks, many of which are from publicity seekers or cranks of all sorts, which are impossible to answer. (How do you prove that you are not a neo-Nazi who wants to kill the Jews) Advertisement Nowhere does Chomsky refer to the gravity or the moral weight of the charges. In fact, its quite apparent from context that he doesnt believe them, will not accept that his good pal Jeffrey is guilty of anything, Thats particularly true now with the hysteria that has developed about the abuse of women, which has reached the point that even questioning a crime is a charge worse than murder. Advertisement This is obviously a reference to the failed Me Too movement, kicked off in response to Harvey Weinsteins misconduct. This means the email was sent after 2017, nearly a full decade after Epstein was first found guilty of child exploitation in Florida, and after hed served his joke thirteen-month sentence. (Epstein was allowed to leave the jail for up to sixteen hours a day. Basically, he was just sleeping over.) Chomsky was well aware that Epstein had been adjudicated guilty, that hed served time in a way and that his crime was a type that is notorious for recidivism. And yet he still insisted that Epstein was pure as the driven snow. That line about a neo-Nazi who wants to kill the Jews by the way, concerns another lapse of Chomskys, this one involving French anti-Semite and Holocaust denier Robert Faurrison. Chomsky wrote a forward to one of Faurrisons books, a book that argued that the Holocaust never happened. In the ensuing uproar he, as implied in the email, simply shrugged it off, giving no explanation of any weight at all. Its clear enough that Noam Chomsky has serious difficulties finding any form of moral balance involving a large number of things. Its long been known that intelligence and breadth of knowledge do very little to create a moral sense. This is just another exhibit to act as evidence. Image: Andrew Rusk Tripoli, Libya (PANA) Strengthening Libyas conflict-prevention architecture, consolidating the 2020 Ceasefire Agreement, addressing structural drivers of instability were key topics discussed in the second five-day meeting of the Structured Dialogue Security Track At least once, when I was a young cub in my teens, my father said You should always take people one at a time. I dont recall exactly what he said after that to expound on that thought, but the message I got was Dont prejudge based on the group someone is in [jock, nerd, black, brown]; get to know them as an individual. It mustve worked because I went on to have a wide variety of friends, starting with my best friend in high school who was Cape Verdean. (Cape Verde is an island off the coast of northwest Africa. Its inhabitants are a mix of African, Creole, and Portuguese/European.) Advertisement It wasnt until much later in life that I understood how profound that statement was, how foundational to the American experiment. It was something Jefferson might say, or any one of a number of our Founders. Our Constitution is all about the individual, the value and dignity of the individual. The primacy of the individual. Thats why its so disturbing to see the cultural Marxism, the rot, the utter stench of it, infiltrating our culture. These collectivists are missing both the micro and the macro of why our Great Charter is the bedrock of Liberty both here, and throughout the world. Advertisement Without a whole, unreserved investment in the value of the individual, one cannot appropriately place value on that one life. Without the ability to appropriately place value on one life, one cannot appropriately place value on life itself. Conservatives dont need to be told that once you stop valuing the individual, bad things happen. Valuing life itself is the inevitable corollary to valuing the individual, and I dont mean just the unborn but the life of the born and living. When one values each individual when one takes people one at a time and not in groups rooted within that is the estimation that that one life, indeed all life, is intrinsically valuable and precious. Advertisement When one stops doing that, evil flows from it. When entire cultures stop doing that, evil flows from it in quantity. Canada and China are currently giving us examples of this evil. First, China: Advertisement The degree of cruelty of the organ harvesting is beyond imagination. Born and raised in China, Raymond Zhang knew the CCPs brutal history. But in 2006, he uncovered a state secret that shocked him to his core. His documentary @Stateorgansfilm shares the stories of victims pic.twitter.com/PDtBTqzXmh Jan Jekielek (@JanJekielek) February 7, 2026 The cut-off text reads: of the CCPs state organ harvesting operation. Advertisement One victim was just 17 years old. Since he was under 18, his parents spent about 10,000 Chinese yuan to get him into the army, and hoped he could get a better job opportunity in the future. Advertisement Because he was from the countryside, he didnt know how to please or bribe his supervisor. He got [in] a conflict with his officer and was put into a military jail. His blood type matched that of a high-level military officer, so the army decided to kill this boy for his two kidneys and one eyeball. His parents will probably never know what happened to their kid. Now to Canada, which isnt far behind China on its death curve. Some of us warned that it would be a very short drive from what Canada is doing with its state-assisted suicide, to what the CCP is doing with organ-harvesting. A very short drive. Well, here we go. Check out this law from New Brunswick. This is what it looks like when a Western nation stops valuing the individual. In stark relief. Understand what you are reading here. Read the words. Then read them again. This is actual law in New Brunswick, Canada, as related to presumptive organ donation. "17: The Chief Coroner may allow the removal of organs or tissue after the death of a person notwithstanding that pic.twitter.com/f5GHMvLco6 Viva Frei (@thevivafrei) February 6, 2026 The cut-off text here reads: death has not yet occurred if: (a) in the opinion of a physician the death of the person is imminent by reason of injury or disease You dont need to be dead to have your organs harvested. And who do you think will be carved up while still not dead? The most vulnerable people of society with no voice in the hospital to protect them. It doesnt take much to imagine this happening, as a version of this has already happened. One elderly woman was put to death because of caretaker burnout. Now while her organs werent harvested, the reason she was euthanized under Canadas MAiD law should alarm us all. If caretaker burnout is all it takes to take someones life against their will then other vulnerable people of society with no voice in the hospital to protect them are surely next. Vulnerable people with valuable organs. You can just hear the excuses, cant you? Quality of life. Save the living who have a chance to have a quality of life. Imagine someone in a wheelchair who requires constant care but who is young and has healthy organs. Their caretaker is no doubt exhausted, and this young person has 30, 40, 50 or more years left to live. You can imagine the heartbreak, the desperation, the appeal to the medical professionals in a Canadian hospital. They say that once you kill the first time, it becomes easier the second time and the third, etc. Our neighbor to the north is going to a very dark place, and all because they stopped taking and valuing one person at a time. M. Walter blogs at www.mwalterwriter.com. Image: Public domain. Not everyone knows this, but many active-duty troops attend Americas colleges and universities on the taxpayers dime. Theres nothing wrong with this. Military education programs were intended to make our military more competent and deadly. Advertisement For example, if the military needs someone trained in psychology to help destroy enemy morale or understand enemy weaknesses, maybe theres an academic program for that. Likewise, if the military needs supply officers up to date on the best technology for purchasing and dispersing the vast resources needed to keep the military going, they should learn that. Additionally, the military has long encouraged its service members to get higher degrees. I guess the theory has been that you dont want what the Duke of Wellington called the scum of the Earth as the backbone of your military (although that same scum defeated Napoleon). Instead, the military prefers the ferocious, but still gentlemanly fighteror, as Wellington also said, The Battle of Waterloo was won on the playing-fields of Eton. Advertisement X screen grab. Advertisement For a long time, the Ivy Leagues were those gentlemens schools. They raised up American men who were both scholars and fightersor at least, fighters who had some social graces. For that reason, the Pentagon willingly included Ivy League schools as part of the Military Tuition Assistance Program. That program will cover up to $4,500 in tuition per year, money that is paid directly to the institution. Admittedly, it doesnt cover the almost $90,000 per year it costs to send a student to Harvard (tuition, housing, etc.), but it will get you some credits there. In addition, different branches of the service have special, fully-funded scholarships for graduate degrees. Advertisement However, the Ivy League has changed a great deal in the last 250 years. Schools that were once bastions of reverence for America and the Western canon have now become hotbeds of truly virulent leftism: Huge segments of the faculty, and a significant number of students, hate America, Western culture, Christianity, Jews, borders, national security, the military...everything that, combined, created a strong, safe, and prosperous America that benefits the greatest number of people. (And, looking at the benefits of the Pax America since WWII, thats the greatest number of people, not just in America, but in the world.) Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has finally had enough of taxpayer money being used to educate service members at one of these Ivy League institutions. In this video, he carefully explains why he is pulling the plug on Harvard, removing it from the list of institutions that can receive tuition payments from the U.S. military. Advertisement File this under: LONG OVERDUE The @DeptWar is formally ending ALL Professional Military Education, fellowships, and certificate programs with Harvard University. Harvard is woke; The War Department is not. pic.twitter.com/0kpsvivtsQ Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) February 6, 2026 The video is five-and-a-half-minutes long, but well worth your time. Hegseth touches on Harvards impressive ties to the American military (Washington took command of the Continental Army there, and Harvard has more Medal of Honor recipients than any other civilian institution), but then focuses on the facts of todays Harvard, one far removed from that patriotic history. Ive added a few comments in parentheses. Harvards faculty is anti-American. Harvards tradition of intellectual inquiry has been replaced with rigid ideological orthodoxy. Harvard has unnervingly close ties to communist China. Harvard openly promoted Hamas (a designated terrorist organization) and became an actively antisemitic environment (a violation of their civil rights). Harvard refuses to end its DEI programs (which are illegally discriminatory). President Trump has been working hard to get Harvard to end its discriminatory practices, but Harvard persists. Even worse, says Hegseth, after attending Harvard on the militarys (and taxpayers) dime, officers returning to the service have embraced Harvards values. Those attitudes are antithetical to the militarys mission to defend America, something that requires military service members who believe its worth defending. Advertisement Therefore, says Hegseth, So, starting now and beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, I am discontinuing all graduate-level professional military education (PME), all fellowships, and certificate programs between Harvard University and the War Department for active-duty service members. This policy applies to service members enrolling in future courses of study at Harvard University while on active duty. Now, any currently enrolled service members will be allowed to finish their course of study. Even better, Hegseth makes it clear that, while the Harvard-military connection is the first to be severed, other Ivy League schools are also on the chopping block. Hurrah! I would love to see almost all federal funds pulled from academia, except for those provably connected to national security or other manifest benefits that extend to all taxpayers. College prices will plummet once government subsidies vanish. Bad colleges will fold, and colleges that dont wish to be bad will start educating, rather than indoctrinating, Americas young people. Why has a tragic event for the family of Nancy Guthrie become a cause celebre for the nation? For those of us who do not watch NBCs Today Show, Savannah may be a familiar name, but is not someone we know. She may be a celebrity to the leftists who still watch NBC News, but to the majority of Americans who are suddenly forced to watch news of her abduction on every news channel around the clock, we must ask why? This is truly a mystery. This 84-year-old woman, who apparently had a pace-maker and needed heart medicine every 24 hours, was living alone in a rural area of Tucson. Why did she not have round-the-clock care? With a famous daughter ostensibly worth millions, why on earth was she living alone? Advertisement The massive news coverage of this abduction for ransom or murder is puzzling beyond belief. There is a lot going on in the world at this moment in time. The war in Ukraine is ongoing, seemingly without end. President Trump successfully removed the corrupt Maduro from his dictatorship, halting the destruction of Venezuela; Maduro will now be tried for his many crimes. The murderous regime in Iran has killed perhaps as many as 40k of its own citizens over the past month. And the mainstream media is addressing nothing but the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. O. J. Simpsons trial for the murder of his wife was 24/7 news because he was a public figure of renown. He was clearly guilty of the crime but a Los Angeles jury found him not guilty. That was a cultural bomb for the city and the nation. The jury knew he was guilty, but acquitted him anyway. A few of the jurors said it was revenge for the beating of Rodney King after a high-speed chase that endangered many. The officers in that case were acquitted. That acquittal set off the LA riots in 1992. The riots in Minneapolis after the overdose death of George Floyd, which was immediately blamed on the policeman who restrained him with a legally prescribed tactic, set off the near-destruction of that city and other cities across the country. That conflagration was 24/7 news, the riots inflamed by the media who shamelessly called what was occurring peaceful protests. Peaceful they were not. They were purposefully incited for political purposes. Our media is disgraceful and is to blame for the horrific damage done in the name of George Floyd, a lifelong criminal and drug addict. Advertisement Is there a political purpose fueling the non-stop coverage of Nancy Guthries disappearance? Doubtful, because few people have ever heard of her or her daughter. Once informed that Savannah Guthrie is a host of a morning show known only to people who watch that program, it seems so odd that her case is dominating the news as if she is a person known to all Americans for service, celebrity, or some other form of fame would be so continuously covered, especially when there is not any news to report. Is this perhaps a family thing? Are the perpetrators known to the family of Savannah Guthrie? Is it a random home invasion by persons who had no idea whose mother Nancy Guthrie is? Is it about revenge or greed? Are the abductors Americans or foreigners? The FBI surely knows more than has been revealed but the question remains: Why is this case commanding so much coverage? The many young women raped and murdered by illegal migrants have barely been reported by the mainstream media. The abduction of Nancy Guthrie, if that is what it was, is indeed tragic for her family. Was she a target because of her famous daughter? Who knows? But what is it about this relatively obscure womans plight that has rendered it the most important news of the year so far? Law enforcement is on it, local and federal. We can all hope there is a happy outcome of the Guthrie familys crisis, but there are thousands of families, thanks to Bidens open borders, whose loved ones have been raped, murdered, kidnapped, and violated victims who never got a moments notice by the media that is now so invested in the Guthrie womans case. One has to wonder how and why some peoples victimization is so much more important than others. Advertisement Image generated by ChatGPT. In the late 19th century, the British Empire wrapped the globe not only in pink on maps but in copper beneath the seas. This vast web of submarine telegraph cables, known as the All Red Line, allowed London to communicate with its far-flung colonies without relying on foreign powers. At a time when information could decide the fate of empires, the All Red Line became one of Britains most important and least visible strategic assets. The idea behind the All Red Line was to connect every major part of the British Empire by telegraph cables that ran exclusively through British territory or international waters under British control. On imperial maps, British possessions were traditionally coloured red, and the network that linked them inherited the name. The network itself was shown as a thick red line. Early submarine telegraphy had already proven its value. The first successful transatlantic cable, completed in 1866, dramatically reduced communication time between Europe and North America, from weeks by ship to minutes by wire. Britain, as the worlds leading maritime and imperial power, quickly grasped the implications. Control of cables meant control of information, diplomacy, commerce, and war. By the 1870s and 1880s, Britain dominated the global cable industry. British companies laid and operated most of the worlds undersea telegraph lines, often with government backing. Still, many imperial communications passed through foreign territory or foreign-owned cables, particularly across the Atlantic and in parts of Asia. This dependence increasingly troubled policymakers. The push for a fully imperial system gathered momentum in the 1890s. The result was a carefully planned network linking Britain to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, and beyondentirely all red. A major milestone came in 1902 with the completion of the Pacific Cable, which connected Canada to Australia and New Zealand via British-controlled islands. Combined with Atlantic cables to Canada and routes through India and Africa, Britain now possessed a near-global communications loop under its own authority. Technically, the All Red Line was not a single cable but a system of interconnected routes. Messages sent from London could travel west to Canada, across the Pacific to Australasia, or east through the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, India, and onward to Southeast Asia and the Pacific. A number of redundancies were built into the network so that disruption in one section of the cable did not hamper delivery of messages. This was made possible by numerous cross-connecting cable systems and, in some cases, terrestrial telegraphs. British strategists estimated that it would take 49 cable cuts to isolate Great Britain and between 5 and 15 cuts each to isolate its major colonies. To protect the cables during wartime sabotage, they were purposefully laid in the vicinity where Royal Navy routinely patrolled. Near some cable landing stations, guns were deployed to deter raids, and cable stations secretly stored reserve instruments and spare cable. Decoy cables also were laid from the cable landing station, extending a few miles offshore and designed to confuse raiders who sought to cut the cable in shallow waters. The true value of the All Red Line became clear during wartime, particularly in the First World War. Within hours of Britain declaring war on Germany in August 1914, British naval forces severed Germanys undersea telegraph cables. Almost overnight, Germany was cut off from direct global communication. Messages to and from Berlin now had to pass through neutral countries, or be sent by radio, which was easier to intercept. Britain, by contrast, retained secure lines of communication with its empire even though many cables were cut by Germans cruisers. During the Second World War, submarine cables again proved valuable, though their dominance was increasingly challenged by radio and wireless communication. After 1945, the strategic world that had produced the All Red Line began to dissolve. The British Empire itself was breaking apart, with colonies gaining independence across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. At the same time, technology moved on. Radio, satellite communication, and eventually fiber-optic cables transformed global connectivity. Telegraphy, which was slow, labor-intensive, and limited in capacity, became obsolete. Within the constraints of technology available at that time, the All-Red Line did what it was supposed to do, and it did it quite remarkably. One cannot help but be impressed by the efficiency of the network. Even by todays standard definition of internet network resilience, the All-Red Line remained remarkably resilient. It could operate in a degraded mode if damaged, rapidly recover if failure occurred, and scale to meet rapid or unpredictable demands. Today, modern submarine fiber-optic cables transmit over 95 percent of international data traffic, mirroring the All-Red Line's role as the British Empire's vital communication artery in an era when telegraphy underpinned global coordination. References: # To Secure Undersea Cables, Take Lessons from the British Empires All-Red Line. US Naval Institute # British cable telegraphy in World War One: The All-Red Line and secure communications. Innovating in Combat # Imperial Cable Communications and Strategy, 1870-1914. The English Historical Review The honeymoon phase of the AI boom is facing a major reality check as Big Techs Magnificent Seven grapple with a staggering $1 trillion valuation wipeout. The world has spent the last year marveling at what artificial intelligence can do, but investors are now shifting their focus to a much more practical question: exactly how much is this going to cost? Why investors are slashing big tech price targets: The AI spending spree The four tech giantsAmazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Metaare projected to spend nearly $700 billion on AI infrastructure in 2026 alone. To put that into perspective, that is more than the GDP of countries like the United Arab Emirates or Singapore. For years, these firms were viewed as cash-generating machines. Now, they are pouring that cash back into high-end chips and massive data centers. The scenario is leading them to a projected free cash flow crisis. Amazon recently shocked the market with its announcement of plans to reach $200 billion in capital expenditures. This figure exceeded analyst expectations by over $50 billion. The news sent Amazons shares tumbling as analysts now project the company could face negative free cash flow of up to $28 billion this year. The company even filed with the SEC to potentially raise more capital through equity and debt. This reported move signals just how serious the AI cash burn is becoming. Investors want to see returns sooner The sentiment on Wall Street has turned noticeably cautious. Companies like Meta and Alphabet argue that their highest priority is investing to lead in AI. Meanwhile, the lack of immediate visibility on returns is making investors nervous. Alphabets free cash flow could plummet by 90% as it races to keep Google Search and YouTube relevant in a chat-driven internet. Meta is facing a similarly dramatic shift. Analysts are now modeling negative cash flow for 2027 and 2028. This is a shocking change for a company that has traditionally sat on mountains of profit. Even Microsoft, despite a slightly more conservative approach, has seen its stock drop 17% as the market weighs the massive costs of the AI arms race. Interestingly, Apple has managed to buck the trend. By committing far less to capital expenditures than its peers, Apples stock actually jumped recently, fueled by high iPhone demand. For now, Wall Street seems to be rewarding Apple for staying out of the high-stakes spending war. The tech industry is currently split into two camps. The bulls believe these investments are creating a moat that will eventually generate trillions in revenue. The bears, however, worry about a binary bet where shareholder cash is being wasted on a bubble that might burst before it pays off. Whether this massive gamble defines a new era of innovation or becomes a cautionary tale remains to be seen. The AI bet is long-term, and we must wait to see if it will be profitable. The legal rivalry between the biggest wireless carriers in the U.S. is heating up. This time, its moving from the commercial break to the courtroom. Verizon has officially filed a lawsuit against T-Mobile in a Manhattan federal court, accusing its competitor of using mathematical fiction in their advertising to lure customers away. Verizon federal lawsuit against T-Mobile for deceptive advertising As Fierce Network reports, at the heart of the dispute is T-Mobiles marketing claim that switching from Verizon or AT&T can save a family over $1,000 a year. Verizon argues that these figures are heavily distorted. According to the lawsuit, T-Mobile reaches that thousand-dollar milestone by comparing its own limited-time promotional rates against Verizons standard, non-discounted pricing. Verizon also points out that T-Mobiles math conveniently ignores active promotions and the value of bundled perks that Verizon customers already enjoy. For instance, Verizon claims its users often get satellite connectivity at no extra cost through partners like Apple and Skylo. T-Mobile allegedly portrays this benefit as an exclusive Un-carrier advantage. Ignoring the watchdogs The legal action didnt happen overnight. Before heading to court, Verizon and AT&T both took their grievances to the National Advertising Division (NAD), a self-regulatory body for the industry. The NAD agreed that T-Mobile should modify its claims. However, the organization lacks the power to actually enforce its recommendations. Verizon alleges that instead of scaling back, T-Mobile doubled down on the same misleading tactics. Frustrated by the lack of change, Big Red is now seeking triple damages and a court order to halt the advertising campaign once and for all. T-Mobiles response resorts to irony If Verizon expected a retreat, they havent seen one yet. In a characteristically confident response, T-Mobile expressed thrill that Verizon effectively admitted customers can save hundreds and hundreds by switching to their rival. Still, T-Mobile acknowledges a disagreement over the exact math. The carrier maintains that its calculationswhich include the value of streaming services and other perksfirmly support the $1,000 savings claim. The Xiaomi 17 series of flagship phones arrived in China last year. The company unveiled the standard and Plus models in September, while the Ultra version arrived in December. Since then, the international public has been eagerly awaiting these premium devices. Recent leaks related to the global version of these handsets hinted at a potential reduction in battery life due to a smaller cell. Now, a new leak reveals the tech specs of the global Xiaomi 17 (standard model), also reflecting a smaller battery compared to the Chinese variant. Global Xiaomi 17 to have a 6,330mAh battery, as per latest specs leak The new leaked document was shared by tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore on X/Twitter. According to the image, the global version of the Xiaomi 17 will likely feature a 6,330mAh battery. This is a massive capacity by most standards without a doubt. However, it still represents roughly a 10% drop from the 7,000mAh cell found in the Chinese edition. It is a curious trend often seen in the industry. Regional certifications or internal hardware adjustments result in slightly leaner versions for the global market. Despite the smaller capacity, the charging technology remains impressive. Xiaomi plans to include its 100W wired and 50W wireless HyperCharge support. No 16GB RAM for global markets The global Xiaomi 17 will reportedly run on the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. However, international buyers might have fewer choices when it comes to memory. The leak indicates only two configurationsboth with 12GB of RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of storage. If true, this skips the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage options available in its home market. The current global memory shortage probably influenced this decision. On the aesthetic side, Xiaomi is swapping things up. While black, light blue, and pink color variants are staying. The white model appears to be replaced by a new dark green variant for international audiences, though. Pricing leaks Xiaomi seems to be timing this launch to go head-to-head with its biggest rivals. The Xiaomi 17 and its more powerful sibling, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, are expected to debut in Europe just before MWC 2026 kicks off in early March. In terms of pricing, the standard model is expected to start at 999 for the 256GB version. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra could reach 1,499. This puts the Xiaomi 17 in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Interestingly, even with the 10% battery downgrade, the Xiaomi 17 still holds a significant capacity advantage over the rumored 5,000 mAh battery in Samsungs upcoming Ultra model. Port Sudan, Sudan (PANA) - The East African bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), on Monday welcomed Sudan back to the fold, praising the role it could play in the region and stressing that it would do its best to help Khartoum restore peace and stability 18-month-old girl hospitalized with respiratory failure and denied meds in ICE detention, lawyers say An 18-month-old girl who spent nearly two months in an immigration detention center in Texas became so gravely ill while inside that she was hospitalized for 10 days with life-threatening respiratory illnesses, according to a federal lawsuit. After the toddler was released from the hospital, she was forced to return to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody inside the sprawling detention center, where staff confiscated her prescribed medication, according to a lawsuit seen by The Independent. Amalia and her parents, Kheilin Valero Marcano and Stiven Arrieta Prieto, were released from ICE custody hours after a lawsuit seeking their release was filed last week, but her case has amplified concerns about conditions inside the Dilley Immigration Processing Center, a remote facility holding a growing number of immigrant families and the site of a recent measles outbreak. The Venezuelan family arrived in the United States with legal permission in 2024 after fleeing Nicolas Maduros regime. They were due to appear in immigration court in 2027 before they were abruptly arrested during a routine ICE check-in appointment December 11. Then Amalias health quickly deteriorated, according to the familys attorneys. 18-month-old Amalia experienced life-threatening respiratory illnesses while inside a sprawling family detention center in Texas that recently locked down due to a measles outbreak (Columbia Law School) She experienced persistent high fevers, vomiting, diarrhea and infections while her parents begged detention center staff for help, according to the lawsuit. On January 1, she developed a fever that spiked as high as 104 degrees. In the days that followed, she struggled to breathe. She lost 10 percent of her body weight. She was only hospitalized after her parents repeatedly requested urgent medical care while their childs blood oxygen saturation plummeted to dangerously low levels, attorneys wrote. Amalia was transferred to two hospitals in Texas, where doctors diagnosed her with pneumonia, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and viral bronchitis. She was hooked up to a machine to receive supplemental oxygen. She was hospitalized from January 18 to 28, after which doctors provided her parents with medication and Pediasure to support her recovery, along with detailed instructions for her care, according to medical records cited in the complaint. But ICE denied the family access to her prescriptions, including Albuterol and a nebulizer, and confiscated her Pediasure, according to the lawsuit. Her parents were forced to wait in long lines for hours in an outdoor queue each day to request their daughters medicine only to be turned away, lawyers wrote. Amalia was hospitalized for 10 days while the toddler and her parents were detained inside the Dilley Immigration Processing Center for roughly two months (Columbia Law School) Amalia had trouble sleeping inside the facility, where lights are on 24 hours a day, in a room she and her mother shared with four other mothers and their children, according to the lawsuit. The family struggled to eat inside; they reported bugs in the food and lack of access to clean, drinkable water. Even after the family was granted release to leave ICE custody, officials did not return her nebulizer, medication, birth certificate or vaccination card, lawyers told The Independent. Attorneys are still fighting to get them back. This is outrageous, said Elora Mukherjee, director of Columbia Law Schools Immigrants Rights Clinic, which filed the petition seeking the familys release. ICE continued to detain Baby Amalia during a measles outbreak and in a setting where she was exposed to other infectious viruses, she told The Independent. Hundreds of children and families remain detained and at risk at Dilley. This is unconscionable. A spokesperson for Homeland Security said any claims that the toddler did not receive her medication or proper medical treatment are FALSE. After she became ill with a respiratory illness, Amalia immediately received proper medical care and was hospitalized, according to Homeland Security deputy secretary Tricia McLaughlin. When back at the facility, she was in the medical unit and received proper treatment and prescribed medicines, she said in a statement to The Independent. ICE has allegedly not returned Amalias medication, birth certificate and other records despite the familys release from custody (Columbia Law School) ICE detentions have exploded since Donald Trump returned to the White House, with more than 70,000 people being held at any given point inside detention centers across the country, the most in modern American history. While the federal government does not publicly disclose information about children in immigration custody, data from advocacy groups, attorneys and investigative news organizations suggest that a growing number of those detainees are children. At least 3,800 people under 18 years old, including 20 infants, were in immigration enforcement custody last year, according to The Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization focused on criminal justice. The detention center in rural Texas holds a growing number of immigrant families as Trump expands his mass deportation efforts in the countrys interior (AP) At least two measles cases were confirmed at the detention center amid heightened scrutiny from legal advocacy groups and lawmakers into the conditions inside (AFP via Getty Images) The latest lawsuit comes amid heightened scrutiny at Dilley, a sprawling, fenced-in facility run by private prison firm CoreCivic roughly 70 miles south of San Antonio. The compound first opened during Barack Obamas administration to support the wave of families crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, though Joe Bidens administration stopped holding families at the facility in 2021. Trump re-opened the facility after taking office as his administration began pursuing immigrants with families who have spent years living in the countrys interior. Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father were released from Dilley February 1 after a judges searing order against the familys detention, which drew renewed outrage against the Trump administrations mass deportation efforts. A photograph of Liam in the cold wearing a blue hat and Spider-Man backpack has become emblematic of sweeping arrests in Minnesota after federal officers surged into the state last month, sparking several lawsuits and demonstrations across the country. A photograph of Liam Conejo Ramos in the cold wearing a blue hat and Spider-Man backpack has become emblematic of sweeping arrests in Minnesota (Columbia Heights Public Schools) The administration is also stripping legal protections for millions of immigrants who were previously living and working with legal permissions in the United States, like Amalias parents, making them immediately vulnerable for arrest and removal. After reaching Mexico from Venezuela in 2024, her parents made an appointment with the CBP One app and presented at the U.S.-Mexico border, where they were processed into the country under humanitarian parole and given a date to appear in immigration court December 21, 2027. They assimilated into El Paso, Texas, with their newborn, and attended regular court-mandated ICE check-in appointments. The Trump administration terminated temporary legal statuses for immigrants who entered the country with the app, which was used by roughly 985,000 people seeking legal entry into the country before the president abruptly ended the program. She and her parents did everything right they entered the United States lawfully, they complied with all their immigration check-ins, they went to church every week and contributed to their community, according to Mukherjee. After terminating CBP One, Homeland Security re-tooled the app as CBP Home and encourage people to use it to self-deport. Being in detention is a choice, McLaughlin said. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return. Detaining immigrant children in inhumane and degrading conditions is illegal, unconstitutional, and un-American, she said. Children and families at Dilley must be released. A range of artwork will be featured aboard MSC World Asia (MSC Cruises) A 12-metre long dragon sculpture and giant koi fish models are among the artwork that will greet guests on the new MSC World Asia cruise ship. MSC Cruises is preparing to launch its latest World class cruise vessel this December and it will be full of Asian-inspired art. The cruise line said the artwork will reflect Asias rich culture, art and landscapes. Guests will see art and sculptures inspired by the Asian continent across the ship in areas such as the World Promenade, the pool deck and on stairwells. The vessel will debut with Mediterranean sailings in December and will join sister ships MSC World Europa and MSC World America in the fleet. MSC World Atlantic is currently being built, and fifth and sixth cruise ships for the World Class series are already in development. Here is what to expect. Dragon sculpture and Japanese carps A giant dragon sculpture will greet guests in the World Promenade of MSC World Asia (MSC Cruises) A stainless steel dragon suspended from the ceiling 10 metres above the World Promenade will welcome guests as they explore the areas restaurants and bars. The 12-metre-long and nine-metre-wide sculpture is made up of almost 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights. The World Promenade will also feature large-scale koi fish sculptures by UK-based artist David Harber. Japanese carp models will be a main feature of the MSC World Asia promenade (MSC Cruises) Indoor pool Guests will be welcomed to the indoor pool by an art installation in the shape of a water droplet, widening towards the base to evoke a sense of lightness and fluidity. Designed by artist Elisabetta Milan, the installation measures 150cm in width and 245cm in height. Cabin and corridor artwork Each deck will feature artworks in the corridors inspired by ships deck names, which are titled after cities in Asia and will pay homage to the beauty, culture, and diversity of Asia. This will include work by Vietnamese artist Joan Phan. Art from Vietnamese artist Hoan Phan will feature across MSC World Asia (MSC World Cruises) Highlights include pieces inspired by Mount Fuji and Ha Long Bay Similarly, cabin artwork will display the landscapes, colours, and natural motifs of Asia. Venues with a view Atelier Le Castel will supply a range of artwork for MSC World Asia (MSC Cruises) Art will be a key part of MSC World Asias onboard venues. Swiss art workshop Atelier Le Castel will create bespoke pieces for venues including La Dolce Vita bar and the Bubbles cafe as well as in the theatre and the MSC Yacht Club. The Kaito Sushi Restaurant on board will also feature koi fish artwork by artist Raimondo Briata. Read more: The best MSC Cruises ships and sailings for 2026 High street beauty brand Barry M has been bought out of administration by cosmetics firm Warpaint for 1.4 million. The acquisition includes the brand and intellectual property, but not Barry Ms factory and staff. London-listed Warpaint, which owns make-up brands W7 and Technic, said it expects the move to help it grow into key retail channels in the UK. Barry M has stands in more than 1,300 stores including Superdrug, Boots, Sainsburys and Tesco, as well as selling products online. The British brand is known for its colourful nail varnishes and affordable make-up, positioned as vegan and cruelty-free, having grown to become staples of the UK high street. It was founded by Barry Mero in 1982, with the leadership of the business passed down to his don Dean Mero after his death in 2014. The brand moved to appoint administrators last year after warning over geopolitical issues and rising prices which it said were absorbed into its cost base. It nonetheless generated a 17.4 million turnover and a 172,000 pre-tax profit for the year to the end of February 2024, according to its most recently published results. It had more than 120 staff on average during the year, with most employed at its manufacturing site in London. Warpaint, whose products are also stocked in high street retailers, told investors that earnings for the 2025 financial year were expected to come in at around 22 million. But it said the collapse of beauty retailer Bodycare last year and subsequent closure of all its stores negatively impacted the group, as it was a significant retail customer of its brand Technic. Support for the monarchy has fallen amid the ongoing Jeffrey Epstein scandal, a new poll has revealed. The proportion of the British public in favour of the monarchy has dropped three percentage points, down to 45 per cent, a survey commissioned by anti-monarchy campaign group Republic found. It comes as Buckingham Palace said on Monday that the King had made his profound concern clear regarding allegations about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors conduct. The Palace added it will stand ready to support the police if approached over fresh claims. Thames Valley Police confirmed it was assessing suggestions that the Kings brother shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with sex offender Epstein. The new allegations emerged among the tranche of three million documents made public by the US department of justice relating to Epstein. The King was heckled about Andrew during a trip to Lancashire on Monday (PA) There are also claims that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in the latters Florida home. The research by Savanta, which was carried out over the weekend before the Palaces comments, showed that those who would prefer an elected head of state remained at 32 per cent, but those who did not know had risen from 20 per cent to 24 per cent since October. The Prince and Princess of Wales meanwhile publicly addressed the Epstein scandal for the first time on Monday, with Kensington Palace saying they were deeply concerned at the continued revelations and that their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The King was heckled on an away day to Lancashire when a man shouted, How long have you known about Andrew? after he arrived at Clitheroe train station. Republics chief executive Graham Smith, who reported Andrew to the police over the trade envoy allegations, said: The monarchy is losing its one claim to legitimacy, opinion poll ratings. The trend across most polling is declining support, and this poll shows how low that support has gone. Falling support is unsurprising given the gravity of accusations against Andrew. He stressed the urgent need for a serious and honest debate about a post-monarchy Britain. Mr Smith added: The monarchy is not going to reverse this trend of falling support. The late queen was the one person keeping this creaking institution going. Even her legacy is now being tainted by the Andrew scandal. The poll asked more than 2,100 adults What would you prefer for the UK: a monarchy or an elected head of state?. Savantas previous research was carried out shortly after Andrew agreed to stop publicly using his royal titles and honours in October 2025 and before the King stripped him of his right to be a prince and removed his dukedom. Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide last year, alleged she was forced to have sex three times with Andrew, which he vehemently denies, including when she was 17, and also during an orgy, after she was trafficked by Epstein. Andrew paid millions to settle the civil sex case with her in 2022, despite insisting he had never met her. The former duke has always denied any wrongdoing. Companies must do more to support staff living with tinnitus, academics have asserted, after a new study revealed the profound impact the condition has on working lives across the UK. Tinnitus, defined as the perception of ringing or other noises in one or both ears without an external source, is estimated to affect around 15 per cent of the population. Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University led an investigation into this issue, gathering data from 449 individuals with the condition, who had an average age of 54. Their findings indicated that 11 per cent of those surveyed had reduced their working hours, 7 per cent had stopped working altogether, and 1 per cent were receiving disability allowance as a direct consequence of their tinnitus. People affected by the condition described a number of workplace challenges including trouble concentrating, reduced productivity and issues communicating in meetings. A new study has revealed the work place challenges of those with tinnitus (PA Archive) They also said they had problems with tiredness, felt slower at finishing tasks and were more prone to errors. Those affected also highlighted impacts on social interactions and reduced work fulfilment. Almost three quarters (72 per cent) said tinnitus had made their working lives more difficult. Though the researchers pointed out that some people involved with the study had found ways to adapt. The team found that an internet-based talking therapy programme was associated with significant improvements in work productivity and reductions in tinnitus distress, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Writing in the journal Brain Sciences, the authors wrote: The present findings underscore the need for workplace policies recognising tinnitus as a potential disability and providing reasonable accommodation and options to access tinnitus interventions. Lead author Dr Eldre Beukes, associate professor of audiology at Anglia Ruskin University, said: Our findings highlight that, for some individuals, tinnitus is far more than a persistent sound; it can be a barrier to maintaining stable employment and workplace wellbeing, and often co-occurs with hearing loss, anxiety or sleep difficulties. This has important implications for employers and policymakers. Workplaces should recognise tinnitus as a condition that can affect productivity and may require reasonable adjustments. Policies supporting flexible work patterns, access to hearing related technologies and improved awareness among managers could make it easier for those affected to stay in work. She added: Although our results are preliminary, and a control group would be needed to confirm the effects, they provide promising evidence that targeted tinnitus interventions may help people remain effective and engaged in their jobs. Offering timely support may also reduce the personal costs and the broader financial impact on the economy that is associated with reduced work capacity. Alex Brooks-Johnson, chief executive of Tinnitus UK, said: This research shows why we must tackle tinnitus in the workplace. Tinnitus UK is committed to helping employers provide welcoming, productive environments and support for those with tinnitus. Proper access to tinnitus care and resources will lead to a happier and healthier workforce, able to work longer and more productively. The St Georges cross must not be used to intimidate others, Church of England (CofE) bishops have warned amid the growing use of Christian symbols by the far right. Seven leading bishops, including Bishop of Leicester Martyn Snow, have called for Englands national flag to be a symbol of unity and criticised those seeking to sow division and misunderstanding by using the flag as a symbol of anti-migrant sentiment. A trend for hoisting St Georges flags began last summer, driven by a group called Raise the Colours who were backed by far-right figures including Tommy Robinson. Flags hang from lamp posts on Westminster Bridge in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, last August (Getty) The St Georges cross, the union flag, and wooden crosses were also prominent features of Robinsons Unite the Kingdom nationalist march, which attracted up to 150,000 people to London in September last year. The UK Independence Party (Ukip), which has become increasingly focused on Christian nationalism under new leader Nick Tenconi, has also used a symbol of a cross in their new party logo, which has been compared with the Iron Cross used by the Nazi Party. The party, which had a previous yellow and purple pound emblem as its logo, has denied that the symbol is an Iron Cross, instead insisting it is a Cross Pattee, a Christian symbol. Both Ukip leader Mr Tenconi and members of Raise the Colours have made trips to northern France to intimidate refugees living destitute there. Protesters wave flags during the Unite The Kingdom rally on Westminster Bridge by the Houses of Parliament on 13 September 2025 (Getty) In a lengthy statement issued on Sunday, seven CofE bishops from across the country said: We reject the use of Christian symbols by those who seek to use them to intimidate others. Sadly, in recent months, we have seen these symbols used by people who, far from working for unity in the nation, are seeking to sow division and misunderstanding. This leaves many in our society feeling anxious and afraid and is a long way from loving our neighbour in the way that Jesus taught. The bishops, among them Arun Arora (Kirkstall), Toby Howarth (Bradford) and Michael Volland (Birmingham), said that they rejoice that the flag of St George is the national flag of England and contains a cross as a sign of our Christian heritage, but warned that the flag cannot be owned by any one group or cause. Ukip party leader Nick Tenconi addresses a rally at Marble Arch in October last year (PA) They acknowledged that many in our communities are concerned by both the perception and realities of the issues of migration and said churches can be places where different views on immigration are listened to with respect and empathy. They warned that their congregations have shared expressions of concern from those who feel threatened by those who seek to blame migrants as the main cause for economic and other challenges. Bishop Arun Arora is one of the seven CofE bishops who have warned against groups seeking to intimidate others with the St Georges Cross (St Paul's Cathedral/YouTube) The statement, also from the London bishops of Barking, Croydon and Willesden, continues: We have seen this spill over into racist abuse and violence and acknowledge the fear and unease expressed by those who have felt less safe in their own communities and workplaces in recent months. Their intervention comes after the Bishop of Manchester hit out at fake claims that Christmas was cancelled at the end of last year. Church of England issues Christmas is for all message ahead of Tommy Robinson carols rally">Writing in The Independent, the Right Reverend David Walker said it was offensive that people were appropriating this great Christian festival of light triumphing over darkness as a prop in a dim culture war. Continental Europe has earned its very first Wetherspoon location, and I was one of the first to visit the new pub. The first Wetherspoon pub outside the UK and Ireland launched on Monday at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain. With over 800 locations across the UK, pub chain J D Wetherspoon (known as Wetherspoons or colloquially as Spoons) is a firm favourite among punters seeking casual food and drinks, affordable prices and fast service. Since opening its first location in London in 1979, the establishment has become rooted in dining and drinking culture across the British Isles, but this is about to change as the company announced a new location in a much sunnier location. Amelia Neath at Wetherspoon at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport (Amelia Neath) The pub, named Castell de Santa Barbera, is found airside in departures, and will be open seven days a week from 6am to 9pm. It offers almost 1,000 square feet of customer space on one level, together with an external terrace with customer seating where you can smoke and vape. Alicantes menu will include many meals available in Wetherspoon pubs in the UK, such as breakfast dishes, burgers and pizzas, but will also offer special dishes inspired by the local area, like garlic prawns, Spanish omelettes and broken eggs. Inside Castell de Santa Barbera (Amelia Neath) To drink, real ales are sadly absent from the bar, but lager choices include Stella Artois, Leffe Blonde, Cruzcampo, Amstel and Guinness, ranging from 4.95 (4.30) to 7.95 (6.92), as well as the all-important free refill tea and coffee for 3.30 (2.87). The Wetherspoons app, used fruitfully in the UK and Ireland to send drinks and food straight to the table (and occasionally, the table of others), is unfortunately not yet up and running, but hopes to be as soon as possible. I taste-tested the broken eggs with Iberian ham (Amelia Neath) Then the usual line-up of soft drinks, spirits, wine and canned beer is available in fridges, including some British favourites like John Smiths and Spanish brands like Mahou Clasica. Alicante seemed like an obvious choice as the first Wetherspoon location away from British and Irish soil a longstanding favourite holiday destination among Brits for its affordable family-friendly resorts, warm weather and sandy beaches. Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin said: We believe the pub will be popular with a wide range of customers travelling home from Alicante Airport, including those travelling home to the UK and those using the terminal for trips to England and beyond. The food menu has some Spanish variations (J D Wetherspooon) We aim to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, including those at airports. While the chain plains to open in more European airports, Wetherspoon also hopes to make its European high-street debut away from the constraints of airport security. The Costa Blanca coastline, including Alicante and other locations like Benidorm, has a large British ex-pat community, evident from its already established British comfort-food joints and familiar lagers on draught in pubs and bars along the seaside strips. Amelia Neath at Wetherspoon at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport (Martin Humby) Opening up a Wetherspoon location within the regions airport fits in well with the increasing British presence in the city another familiar brand to remind them of home. Phil, who owns a home in Alicante, was on his way to visit family and friends in the UK when he stopped by the Castell de Santa Barbera within hours of opening. I think it will suit a lot of the British crowd, he told The Independent. I was a bit surprised because Wetherspoon has a reputation for having good prices, but most drinks and food in Spain are cheaper anyway. A selection of lagers on offer (Amelia Neath/The Independent) However, he added that the ubiquitous brand will certainly get popular with the stag night crowds from Benidorm. While it is a small taste of home, Phil said he likes to come to Spain to get away from that, but because its the first day, he did not want to pass up the opportunity and ordered a chicken burger and chips. Meanwhile, Sam, a regular punter of a Spoons in Worthing, made the trip to Alicante specially to visit the Spanish branch. After a few days in Alicante, he timed his return flight home with the opening of Castell de Santa Barbera. Its quite small, but it's well kitted out, it's quite pleasant in here and has a nice atmosphere so far, he told The Independent. The pub also includes a terrace area (Amelia Neath/The Independent) I only started going out of my way to visit [different] Wetherspoons in early 2022, he said with an alcohol-free San Miguel in hand. My grandad liked to visit different Wetherspoons, so I think I got it from him. Despite being one of the most well-recognised brands in the UK, with 44.8 million customers visiting the chain each year, Wetherspoon is known for adding a touch of individuality with unique carpets and decorations inspired by the areas local history. Alicantes pub takes its name from Castell de Santa Barbera, a castle that sits overlooking the bay of Alicante, atop Mount Benacantil. Originating in the 9th century, it has served as a lookout, military fortress and prison, and it remains one of the citys most significant historic landmarks. The no-frills, fuss-free chain has become a polarising brand over the years, partly attributed to Mr Martins vocal support of Brexit. Yet, Wetherspoon has long been and continues to be appreciated for its affordable food and drink, good wifi, and convenience for every type of punter, whether that's popping in for a pint, ordering a three-course meal or using the free coffee refills while working on laptops. Wetherspoons signage from outside the airport (Amelia Neath/The Independent) Eddie Gershon, a spokesperson for Wetherspoons, explained that Mr Martins referendum campaigning was to do with democracy. Wetherspoon was never anti-Europe, he said. We will continue to open pubs across Europe, he added. Why not, there is a market for it, no doubt people will want to come to the pubs. The Independents travel desk is no stranger to a Wetherspoon-come-office, especially at airports. I, in fact, wrote up notes ahead of my trip in Stansted airports The Windmill, while travel correspondent Simon Calder can often be spotted working from The Beehive at Gatwick Airport during flight delays. The Castell de Santa Barbera will go down in Wetherspoon history as a landmark location, following on from a branch opened in Heathrow Terminal 4 in 1992 that was the first airport pub, and the Three Tun Tavern in Blackrock, Ireland, which was the first outlet outside the UK. Whether you celebrate the new opening or prefer to keep it Spanish while still in Alicante, you will be sure to see sun-kissed Brits having a first taste of home before hopping on a flight back to the UK. British freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy has spoken out about the awful abuse and vitriol he has received since posting a photo about his stance on the United States immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) policy. In a post on his Instagram account, Kenworthy who was born in Chelmsford but has lived in the US for most of his life expressed his views on ICE with a graphic message in the snow and posted it online. The 34-year-old has since released a video post explaining his reasoning behind the message and how he has been sent insane responses for speaking out against ICE. Gus Kenworthy revealed he has received abusive messages since calling out ICE on social media (Getty) Im just trying to make a video before I go to bed to get my thoughts out, Kenworthys video begins. Im competing for Great Britain at this Olympics to honour my mum because shes British. Im half British. I was born in England but Im also half American. I did my first two Olympics for the US and won a silver medal for the US, thats where I live now so I care about the US and I care about whats happening there. The other day I posted a photo with my thoughts on ICE and that photo has since gone everywhere. Ive gotten a ton of messages and most of them have been supportive and encouraging... but a lot of the messages have been awful. People telling me to kill myself, threatening me, wishing theyll get to see me blow my knee or break my neck during my event, calling me slurs. Its insane. Maybe thats the price you pay for speaking up and using your platform so maybe this video is going to invite more hate and vitriol, but I think its important to say what we feel and stand up for what we believe in and stand up to injustice. Kenworthy then praised US halfpipe skier Hunter Hess and US Alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin for also using their platform to voice their own thoughts on various issues. Hess has been branded a real loser by US President Donald Trump after speaking about everything going on in the US while Shiffrin called out global hardship and violence and hopes to display her own values of inclusivity, diversity, and kindness at the Olympics. Kenworthy revealed his own stance in his video post explaining how a person can love the US, be proud to be an American and still think it can be better. In relation to his previous post on ICE, Kenworthy said: I do not support ICE and I think its absolutely evil and awful and terrifying. Its crazy, its scary. US citizens are being caught in this, and I think overwhelmingly the majority of the people being targeted are good, hardworking people that are nonviolent and have no criminal history, and just came to the US seeking a better life. That is literally the foundation story of the US. We are a country of immigrants, thats the American dream and I think people forget that sometimes. ALPHARETTA, Ga., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Afore Insurance Services ("Afore"), a rapidly growing property & casualty insurance and employee benefits brokerage platform, today announced the acquisition of Myron K. Hobbs & Company, LLC, a respected group employee benefits agency serving the Louisville, Kentucky region. The transaction marks Afore's official entry into Kentucky and establishes a new Louisville-area office, further strengthening the company's ability to serve employer clients with comprehensive benefits expertise and local market presence. Afore adds a new Louisville, Kentucky area office with the Myron K. Hobbs acquisition. "Myron Hobbs and his team bring considerable group employee benefits capabilities and deep client relationships that align perfectly with Afore's mission," said Michael A. Garguilo, President & CEO of Afore Insurance Services. "We are truly excited to welcome Myron, the agency's employees, and their valued clients to Afore. This acquisition not only expands our footprint into a new state, but also gives us a strong Louisville presence that will support continued growth across the region." As part of the integration, the Myron K. Hobbs & Company team is expected to transition into shared office space and operate alongside Neace Ventures, the investment firm of Afore Vice Chairman and investor John Neace, an insurance industry veteran with decades of experience building and supporting successful agencies. "We're proud to have the Hobbs team joining the broader Afore family in Louisville," Garguilo added. "The opportunity to collaborate in close proximity with John Neace and Neace Ventures creates an exciting environment for innovation, growth, and client service." Myron K. Hobbs, Founder of Myron K. Hobbs & Company, expressed strong confidence in Afore's approach and long-term vision. "I have tremendous confidence in Afore, its business model, and the leadership of Mike Garguilo and John Neace," Hobbs said. "This partnership will accelerate our growth while preserving the strong local relationships we've built. Afore's commitment to empowering employees and producers truly stands out. By combining employee benefits and P&C capabilities, we can serve clients more holistically, help them protect their businesses in new ways over time, and deepen the personal relationships that have always defined our agency." Hobbs added that the combination creates new opportunities for employees, producers, and clients alike, while maintaining the agency's trusted presence in the Louisville community. About Afore Insurance Services, LLC Afore Insurance Services is a consolidated insurance brokerage acquisition platform offering independent insurance agencies the opportunity to partner with a top-100 national firm to better serve clients. With roots dating back to the 1970s, Afore has successfully acquired more than 50 agencies and operates them under custom operating structures, where the principals and producers of the acquired agencies continue to lead client sales and service locally. The company is headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, and today ranks among the 100 largest insurance brokers in the US, with more than 20 offices nationwide. For more information: Holden King Afore Insurance Services, LLC Phone: (770) 727-3268 Email: [email protected] www.afore.insure SOURCE Afore Insurance Services, LLC Disgraced British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell has refused to answer questions as part of US Congresss probe into paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The 64-year-old appeared remotely from prison before the House Oversight Committee on Monday but invoked her Fifth Amendment rights to avoid answering questions that would be self-incriminating. She is serving a 20 year prison sentence for sex-trafficking girls for Epstein, who died in prison in 2019. Maxwell has come under new scrutiny amid the revelations found in the millions of Epstein files released by the Department of Justice, with calls for any others involved in Epsteins offending to be prosecuted. But at the hearing on Monday her lawyer used the opportunity to campaign for a pardon from President Donald Trump. In a post on X after the questioning, Maxwells legal representative, David Markus, said his client would be prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump. Documents included in the US Department of Justice release of the Jeffrey Epstein files (Jon Elswick/AP) Mr Markus also said: Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example, both President Trump and President (Bill) Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation. Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, James Comer, told reporters Maxwell should not be entitled to immunity. Addressing the disgraced socialites decision to remain silent, Mr Comer said: This is obviously very disappointing, we had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential co-conspirators. During her three-week trial in 2021, prosecutors described Maxwell as dangerous, and said she helped entice vulnerable teenagers to Epsteins properties for him to sexually abuse. She was sentenced at the federal court in the southern district of New York in June 2022. TJ Sabula, a Ford worker who heckled President Trump during a January factory visit in Michigan, still has his job and has not been disciplined, according to his union. "TJ, we got your back," United Auto Workers Vice President Laura Dickerson reportedly said on Monday during a speech in Washington, D.C., as part of the UAWs national political conference. During the event, UAW President Shawn Fain also praised the 40-year-old line worker. "That's a union brother who spoke up," Fain said, reports The Detroit News. "He put his constitutional rights to work. He put his union rights to work. During a January 13 visit to a Ford truck factory in Dearborn Sabula and the president had a memorable back-and-forth exchange. A Ford auto worker who heckled Trump last month remains employed and hasnt been disciplined, his union said (AFP/Getty) The 40-year-old called Trump a pedophile protector, in an apparent reference to the administrations handling of the Epstein files. The president responded by mouthing an expletive and raising his middle finger towards the worker, then reprising his TV catchphrase from The Apprentice and telling Sabula, Youre fired. Sabula, a member of UAW Local 600, told The Washington Post at the time he is a political independent and has supported Republicans in the past. As far as calling him out, definitely no regrets whatsoever, Sabula explained, though he said he was worried he would be targeted for political retribution for embarrassing Trump in front of his friends. I dont feel as though fate looks upon you often, and when it does, you better be ready to seize the opportunity, Sabula told the paper. And today I think I did that. The Trump administration has not released the full Jeffrey Epstein files, missing a deadline in 2025 legislation compelling their release (PA Media) After the incident, a White House official told The Independent the presidents response was appropriate. A lunatic was wildly screaming expletives in a complete fit of rage, and the president gave an appropriate and unambiguous response, White House director of communications Steven Cheung said. Crowd-funding pages raise more than $800,000 for Sabula, who was suspended after the interaction with Trump. The Trump administration still has not released the full Epstein files, despite blowing past a statutory deadline to do so. Administration lawyers say they are still reviewing the materials to protect victim confidentiality. A group of Epstein survivors united for an ad that aired ahead of yesterdays Super Bowl. After years of being kept apart were standing together, the eight women said as they called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to release the remaining records. Guards escorting migrants back to France under the one in, one out scheme fell asleep on a deportation flight, a report into removals has revealed. A report from the prisons inspectorate published on Monday also said the migrants being deported to France were unable to understand what was happening because interpreters werent available. The controversial one in, one out scheme, which launched last August, returns small boat migrants to France in exchange for other asylum seekers. Some 367 people have come to the UK under the programme, with 305 people sent back, according to the latest figures. Home secretary Shabana Mahmood has said the government obviously want to see much larger numbers of people being deported under the scheme. She said the pilot scheme has proved the concept but issues like French capacity to take in large numbers and the amount of UK detention space were limiting the schemes expansion. Inspectors monitored a removal flight from Stansted airport to Paris that included 20 male detainees, 58 escorts and two paramedics. They said most of the detainees were aware that they were being deported to France but didnt understand what would happen to them on arrival. A Border Force vessel delivers migrants to Dover port after intercepting a small boat crossing last year (Getty) The report said that treatment of detainees by escort staff was mostly good, with staff polite, friendly, and respectful. However they noticed that staff would sometimes have prolonged conversations over the heads of the migrants, and would swear in front of detainees. In another example of unprofessional behaviour, both escort staff allocated to a detainee were asleep at the same time. The report found that almost no information was available to the men about what would happen in France, with some telling the inspectors they were anxious about their futures and others saying that they had no connections in France. Migrants returned to France under the deal have access to three days of emergency accommodation. After that, they could be referred to centres for asylum seekers or could be left destitute. There have been 305 people who arrived in the UK on small boats sent to France in the one in, one out scheme (Getty) Demonstrating how few material possessions the men have, the report documented that two detainees collected from Harmondsworth detention centre, in Middlesex, were removed wearing flip flops. Inspectors noted that staff did not offer alternative footwear. Inspectors noted that the detained men spoke a range of different languages and only one interpreter was present who spoke Arabic and French, languages that almost none of the men spoke. Force was also used on one man at Brook House immigration detention centre, near Gatwick, who said he would not comply with his removal. The inspectors said the force was only used as a last resort and, although a waist restraint belt was used, it was removed when it was safe to do so. Records show that force has been used against one in, one out migrants on eight occasions, five of them on one of the earliest flights under the scheme. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out new proposals in November (James Manning/PA) (PA Wire) More than 300,000 children living in the UK could be left "in limbo" if the Home Office proceeds with its shake-up of legal migration rules, a think tank has warned. The Home Secretary outlined proposals in November to end automatic settlement status after five years. This means 1.35 million legal migrants already in the country nearly a quarter of them children, according to the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) would be forced to wait longer for settled status. Under the proposed changes, migrants would apply for settled status after 10 years, though this could be fast-tracked or extended based on their "contributions" to the UK. Public service workers, like doctors and nurses, or higher taxpayers, might qualify after five years. However, lower-qualified workers on health and social care visas from the 2022 "Boris wave" could wait 15 years. Those on benefits might face a 20-year wait before applying for settlement. Those on visas from the 2022 Boris wave may have to wait 15 years to qualify for settled status (REUTERS) The IPPR warned the proposals would cause insecurity for families, with damaging consequences for integration, educational opportunities, and child poverty. Retrospective application could also penalise those who arrived under different rules, the think tank added. Marley Morris, IPPR associate director for migration trade and communities, said children of legal migrants face prolonged insecurity. He stated: "Families who were welcomed to the UK under one set of rules should not have the goalposts moved part way through their journey. Its simply unfair to apply these rules retrospectively. For the 300,000 children affected, this is not an abstract policy change. They face growing up with prolonged insecurity, with many facing new barriers to going to university once they turn 18. If the Government is serious about integration and tackling child poverty, it cannot design a system that keeps families and children, many of whom will eventually become our fellow citizens, in limbo for a decade or more." Dora-Olivia Vicol, chief executive of the charity Work Rights Centre, described the change in wait time for settlement as "callous" and a "betrayal" of migrant communities. She added: "It wont make the system fairer or promote integration. It will just keep people on high-risk employer-tied visas for longer, and drive wedges between communities." The ice crack across Lake Erie is so large that it can be seen from space A crack that formed on the frozen Lake Erie this weekend is so large it can be seen from space. The massive crack likely formed from strong northerly winds that pushed the ice south on Saturday, causing pressure to build and the ice to weaken on the Great Lake, 10 WBNS reported. Throughout Saturday, the crack continued to grow, eventually expanding more than 80 miles. The crack could be seen from Port Burwell on the north shore of Lake Erie in Canada, all the way to Cleveland, Ohio, which sits on the lakes south shore, according to the report. Satellite images revealed the massive crack, stretching across one of North Americas largest lakes. A massive crack in the ice on Lake Erie is so big it can be seen from space, satellite images show (NOAA) This serves as a good reminder that ice is never 100 percent safe. Even if the ice is thick, there can still be some thin spots, or weakening of the ice, leading to cracking, 10 WBNS meteorologist Aaron White said. About 95 percent of Lake Erie is currently frozen, according to data from NOAAs Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory. However, the crack may expand further within the coming days as temperatures rise. Lake Erie has only completely frozen over three times in modern history, most recently in February of 1996, according to Cleveland.com. During an average winter, the lake peaks between 65 and 70 percent ice coverage. In recent years, Lake Erie has approached full ice coverage several times, including in 2025, 2018, 2015, 2014 and 2011, according to NOAA. The chance for Lake Erie to fully freeze over appears to be slimming, as forecasters predict rising temperatures in the days to come. With warmer temperatures in the forecast and most days featuring high temperatures near or above freezing, were likely to see more melting and ice cracking on lakes across Ohio. Temperatures are expected to remain mild through the end of February, White added. Forecasters are warning those living in the Cleveland area to avoid walking across the ice, going ice fishing or driving snowmobiles across the lake. Ice is seen floating in the River Hudson as brutal temperatures have been recorded in New York City. (Getty Images) Meanwhile, much of the U.S. has been suffering from frigid cold temperatures following several powerful snowstorms last month. However, the cold air is expected to retreat to the Arctic Circle within the next few days, according to AccuWeather. Some regions have experienced weeks now of sub-freezing temperatures, including New York City, which saw a cold snap at the end of January that caused at least 10 people to die. In the weeks since, temperatures in northeast cities like New York and Philadelphia remained frigid. The National Weather Service issued an extreme cold warning for the New York tri-state area over the weekend, as forecasters predicted temperatures feeling as low as -15 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures in the Big Apple were colder than Antartica, hitting 3 degrees Sunday, but powerful winds made it feel as though it was 14 degrees below zero. After over a week of temperatures below freezing, ice that spread across New Yorks Hudson River was also visible on NASA satellites, according to AccuWeather. Its also unlikely that the Hudson would completely freeze over. However, it did happen once in 1888, according to AccuWeather. Seamus Culleton with his wife Tiffany Smyth An Irish man has been detained by US authorities for months and faces deportation despite being married to an American citizen. Seamus Culleton, who lived in Boston, claims he was arrested as part of a random sweep by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in September. Mr Culleton has been kept in a series of detention facilities, and authorities are battling to deport him from the country where he has lived for decades. Mr Culleton, who runs a plastering business, is from County Kilkenny but moved to the US some 20 years ago, according to The Irish Times. He was reportedly arrested by ICE on Sept 9, while he was carrying a Massachusetts driving licence and a valid work permit that he was issued as part of an application for a green card. Mr Culleton, who does not have a criminal record, said he applied for permanent residency in April 2025, and had one interview left before the process was complete. Mr Culleton was arrested as part of a random sweep by ICE officers He was held in ICE detention centres near Boston and in New York state, before being flown to a facility near the Mexican border in Texas where he shares a cell with more than 70 men, most of whom do not speak English. Mr Culleton likened the detention centre to a concentration camp and said the child-sized food portions often ended in fights among the inmates. It is absolute hell, he added. A judge reportedly approved his release on a $4,000 (2,920) bond, which was paid by Tiffany Smyth, his wife and a US citizen. However, authorities are said to have continued to detain Mr Culleton without explanation. Mr Culleton denies claims by ICE officers that he signed documents agreeing to be deported, and has asked for handwriting experts to examine the signatures. A video of his interview with agents would prove his version of events, he said. My whole life is here. I worked so hard to build my business. My wife is here, he said. ICEs popularity has fallen dramatically in recent months amid violent crackdowns in cities like Minneapolis, where two US citizens were shot dead by immigration agents during protests. Ogor Winnie Okoye, Mr Culletons lawyer, described him as a model immigrant who owned a successful business and is married to a US citizen. Ms Smyth told Mr Culletons family in Ireland that he had lost weight and hair and had sores and infections after his months of detention. Irelands government said the number of Irish citizens seeking help over possible deportation from the US jumped more than fourfold to 65 in 2025. A spokesman for Irelands foreign affairs department said it was aware of this case and is providing consular assistance. ICE has been contacted for comment by The Telegraph. Jamie Raskin speaks with the media after viewing unredacted version of Epstein files. Photograph: Kent Nishimura/Reuters (Photograph: Kent Nishimura/Reuters) A top House Democrat on Monday accused the justice department of making mysterious redactions to documents related to Jeffrey Epstein that obscured the names of abusers, while also allowing the identities of the disgraced financiers victims to become public. Jamie Raskin, House judiciary ranking member, criticized the department after reviewing the unredacted Epstein files at a government facility in Washington DC on the first day they were made available to lawmakers. Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act passed by Congress in November, the justice department has publicly released millions of files related to Epstein, who socialized with prominent global elites including Donald Trump and died in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The measure allows for the files to be redacted in limited circumstances, such as to protect the name of Epsteins victims, but some of the documents made public have nonetheless included identifying details. Related: Ghislaine Maxwells refusal to answer questions before Congress draws criticism: Who is she protecting? Raskin told reporters that he wanted to view the complete files to better understand how the justice department handled the redaction process. I went over there, and I was able to determine, at least I believe, that there were tons of completely unnecessary redactions, in addition to the failure to redact the names of victims, and so that was troubling to us, Raskin told reporters. He accused the justice department of being in a cover-up mode and breaking the law. They violated that precept by releasing the names of a lot of victims, which is either spectacular incompetence and sloppiness on their part, or, as a lot of the survivors believe, a deliberate threat to other survivors who are thinking about coming forward, that they need to be careful because they can be exposed and have their personal information dragged through the mud as well, Raskin said. The justice department has released a total of about 3.5m files related to Epstein, and Raskin said there were around 3m more awaiting release. The Maryland congressman said he was only able to review about 30 to 40 of the unredacted files that had been released at one of four computers set up at the justice department facility, which lawmakers must enter without bringing any electronic devices, or staff members who have been researching the issue alongside them. I saw the names of lots of people, who were redacted for mysterious or baffling or inscrutable reasons, Raskin said. He noted Les Wexner, the Victorias Secret founder whose association with Epstein is public, is among those whose names were deleted. Another redacted document Raskin said he saw in full was an email Epstein had sent to his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, which contained an account from his lawyers of a conversation with attorneys representing Trump that occurred around 2009. Trump was quoted in it as saying that while Epstein was never a member of his Mar-a-Lago club, he had been a guest and was never asked to leave, which would contradict statements from the president that he had at one point barred him from his Florida property. Pam Bondi, the attorney general, is scheduled to testify before the House judiciary committee on Wednesday, and Raskin said he would raise the redactions with her. Were going to start by posing questions directly to attorney general Bondi about the process that produced such flawed results, and that has created such mystery, Raskin said. But also, we want to get a commitment from the Department of Justice to clean it up as quickly as possible, and to get them to release the millions of other documents that are still out there. Separately on Monday, Maxwell, who is serving a prison sentence after being convicted of child sex trafficking charges, refused to answer questions during a deposition by the House oversight committee, which has taken the lead in investigating the governments handling of Epsteins prosecutions. In the UK, Keir Starmers government has been rocked by revelations of ties between Epstein and Peter Mandelson, whom the prime minister appointed as ambassador to the US. Raskin noted the files were enough to spark a political firestorm in the UK but not in the US even though Trump unlike Starmer is mentioned repeatedly in the files. It is a huge political scandal [in Britain], and Im just afraid that the general coarsening and degradation of American life has somehow conditioned people not to take this as seriously as we should be taking it, Raskin said, noting that files he has seen contain discussions regarding girls as young as nine years old. I hope the whole country is focusing on the absolute gravity of the crisis that were in. A years-long battle to protect a stretch of New Jersey beaches from erosion has gone back to the drawing board, after talks on a $54 million plan collapsed. The massive sand replenishment project would have seen sand moved around to bolster Five Mile Island beaches between the Hereford and Cape May inlets, encompassing North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and the Diamond Beach section of Lower Township. But talks stalled and the project was shelved, with funding moved elsewhere. The scrapped scheme will raise fresh fears over the future of tourism to the beaches, which are popular with visitors and play an important role in the local economy. North Wildwood in particular has lived in fear of being wiped out by the next big storm, and spent years embroiled in a legal dispute with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection over the condition of its beaches and protective sand dunes. North Wildwoods beach has long suffered from erosion, with big storms stripping away its sand dunes. (Wayne Parry/AP) Although it has been prone to severe erosion, North Wildwood has not yet gotten a full beach replenishment project from the state and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, due in part to funding delays and difficulty in obtaining easements from private property owners. In December 2024, the North Wildwood City Council voted to accept a settlement with the NJDEP in which both parties agreed to drop their respective legal action, and hopes were high that a full restoration project would begin in 2025. North Wildwood sits at the northern end of the barrier island. Due to the shape of the coastline and the movement of waves, sand moves southward along this stretch of the coast pushing sand from North Wildwood onto the beaches of its southern neighbors, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. It has long fought a losing battle against this erosion, trucking in sand to try and replace what is being lost. In 2022, for instance, it brought in a large quantity of sand ahead of Memorial Day, only for much of it to immediately wash away again in a storm. An initial recovery plan approved by Congress would have relied on moving sand between areas to balance out distribution so all towns had proper beaches. North Wildwoods beach is popular with Philadelphia-area tourists and plays an important role in the local economy (Wayne Parry/AP) But that plan has now stalled, with officials in both Wildwood and Wildwood Crest raising concerns about the impact of removing sand from their communities. Wildwood Crest Mayor Don Cabrera told NJ Advance Media he was also worried about maintaining access for first responders. We dont want our existing dunes, or any part of them, demolished for a higher dune, said Cabrera, and we dont want to close off Ill call them gaps because those are our emergency access points. Related concerns about beach length and dunes were shared by Wildwood, which often uses its beaches to host events with large crowds. North Wildwood Mayor Salvatore Zampirri told NJ Advance Media he doubted whether neighboring towns would ever support building a dune to protect his communitys beach, if they feared it would come at the expense of their own. Severe erosion has raised fears for the future of North Wildwood, especially as the climate crisis pushes sea levels higher (Wayne Parry/AP) He suggested that if necessary, North Wildwood would move ahead with a standalone restoration project provided state and federal officials were onboard. For now, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun another round of talks with the NJDEP to revive a joint effort. It involves investigating alternate borrow sources for sand, Army Corps spokesperson Stephen Rochette told NJ Advance Media. We are in the early stages of this study and have begun initial coordination with the municipalities. Coastal issues in New Jersey are expected to get worse in the coming decades as the climate crisis pushes sea levels higher. Many of these towns sit on flat barrier islands mere feet above sea level and as the oceans rise over the next century, these areas will face an increased threat from flooding and even potentially inundation. Multiple beach repair projects at the Jersey Shore were cancelled last year amid spending cuts by the Trump administration, and officials have pleaded for more federal help. New Jersey has increasingly stepped into the breach and spent its own money on beach replenishment, reaching $50 million annually with its Shore Protection Fund. Katie Price has spoken out about her quick wedding to Lee Andrews. (Ben Whitley - PA Images via Getty Images) Katie Price has defended her fourth marriage to businessman Lee Andrews, whom she wed just days after meeting him. Since their whirlwind wedding speculation has arisen about Andrews and his past, including warnings issued to Price from his ex-partners. But the glamour model has told critics that she is "not stupid" and so people should not worry about her. Addressing her marriage in a new video shared on her YouTube channel on Sunday, 8 February, Price said: "I'm fully aware like everyone else, I see stuff, I get sent stuff. What I want everyone to know is, I'm a grown a*** woman. "I'm 48 this year, I'm not a young kid. I've learned a lot in the past few years, through therapy and learning to love myself. So I'm not stupid, I know what I'm doing and if I'm happy that's all [that] matters." Reflecting on how she feels in the relationship, and the speculation around Andrews, Price added: "At the end of the day, no one knows what I know. It's only been speculated by the press. "I am very happy, and that's all [that] matters. That happy, that I'm going back to Dubai for the weekend. So I can't wait." Price reunited with Andrews prior to the video's release on Friday, 6 February, with the couple revealing they were set to go on their honeymoon together. The former glamour model said that she's 'happy' in the relationship and so people shouldn't be concerned about her, because she's 'not stupid'. (Nordin Catic via Getty Images) In the video, Price said of the public's concern for her: "If there's anything to update you on, I would always update you all. But I just want people to not worry. 'I'm not worried, so you don't need to worry about anything. Like I say, I will do what I want to do. But I want everyone to know you don't need to worry, I'm really happy, there's nothing to worry about. That's all I need to address on that." Price and Andrews confirmed their engagement on Instagram on 23 January following a whirlwind romance. The reality star shared that at the time they began speaking on social media and decided to buy engagement rings before they had even met. In an interview with The Sun, Price said: "We connected [by] both checking each others socials and quickly realised, 'Wow, this is for me' in the old-fashioned way, first by words which captured us both. "That evolved deeper as we connected further within days, [getting] matching tattoos, and then both deciding to buy rings for the other. "All this without even meeting, we let fate, but you could [say] destiny decide." Sir Keir Starmer is clinging on to power with the support of key cabinet figures even after being rocked by the departure of a second key aide, and a public demand for his resignation from Labours own leader in Scotland. The prime minister was supported by colleagues, including his former deputy Angela Rayner, as the previously loyal Anas Sarwar urged him to step down over the Mandelson-Epstein scandal, saying he had made too many mistakes. On a day of drama, the PM was also hit by the resignation of Downing Street director of communications Tim Allan, less than 24 hours after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned. But Sir Keir insisted: I am going nowhere. Anas Sarwar appeared at a press conference in front of a backdrop that bore no mention of Labour (PA) Later, a determined Sir Keir told Labour MPs and peers he was not prepared to walk away or plunge the country into chaos as other prime ministers had done. But he was in effect put on notice when health secretary Wes Streeting, seen by many as angling for Sir Keirs job, published communications between himself and Mr Mandelson containing severe criticism of Sir Keirs economic and Middle East policies. The publication broke collective responsibility and would normally lead to a sacking, but Mr Streeting justified it by saying it was necessary to deal with with smears that had been made about his relationship with the disgraced former Labour peer. In front of a packed meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party, Sir Keir also vowed that as long as he had breath in my body he would fight against Nigel Farage on behalf of the country, adding that he had won every fight Ive ever been in. He said: After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, Im not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos as others have done. But he is understood to have faced a number of critical questions from MPs, including in relation to another former director of communications, Matthew Doyle, whom Sir Keir elevated to the House of Lords, and Mr Doyles links to a convicted sex offender. Leading pollsters suggested that Sir Keirs departure had now become inevitable. It all appeared to be unravelling after the controversial chief of staff, Mr McSweeney, stepped down on Sunday over his advice to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States despite Mr Mandelsons previous association with the convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Mr Sarwar, whose Scottish Labour Party is trailing both Reform and the SNP ahead of crucial Holyrood elections in May, held a press conference to say he believed that Sir Keir should now also step down. He said he was calling for his friend to resign but that he was doing so with a heavy heart. The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change, he told reporters. We cannot allow the failures at the heart of Downing Street to mean the failures continue here in Scotland, because the election in May is not without consequence for the lives of Scots. But almost as soon as he had spoken, Mr Streeting who was once accused by Downing Street officials of plotting against the PM said: Give Keir a chance. Chancellor Rachel Reeves posted: With Keir as our Prime Minister we are turning the country around. Tim Allan has quit as Downing Street director of communications (BBC) Deputy prime minister David Lammy added: Keir Starmer won a massive mandate 18 months ago, for five years to deliver on Labours manifesto that we all stood on. As ministers lined up to pledge loyalty, former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, touted by some as another possible candidate to replace Sir Keir, also appealed for calm. She said: I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team. The prime minister has my full support in leading us to that end. Labour grandee Alan Johnson warned that ditching the prime minister would turn Labour and the country into an international laughing stock. But amid the febrile atmosphere in Westminster, one Labour MP said: Its over. It is just a matter of when, not if. A number of MPs on the Labour left have already described Sir Keirs position as untenable, and there were plans to heckle the prime minister at the Parliamentary Labour Party event on Monday evening. Meanwhile, pollster Professor Sir John Curtice said: We are at the stage where unplanned events could result in Keir Starmer going. It could be MPs going to the chief whip or, like Boris Johnson at the end, one member of cabinet resigning, and that starts to precipitate. He suggested that one thing helping Sir Keir is that there is no clear successor. Starmer addressed the parliamentary Labour party on Monday night (PA) Prof Curtice noted that the ongoing HMRC investigation into Ms Rayners tax affairs would make it difficult for her to return immediately to government, while Mr Streeting has himself been damaged by the Mandelson scandal, and home secretary Shabana Mahmood probably cant even get the support of the 80 MPs to fight the contest. He speculated that Labour could appoint a former leader, energy secretary Ed Miliband, because of the lack of options. Meanwhile, another pollster, Conservative peer Robert Hayward, said: Im becoming ever more convinced that a change is inevitable, but the Labour Party has got to the we might as well try something else stage, as the Conservative Party did. A Downing Street spokesperson said: Keir Starmer is one of only four Labour leaders ever to have won a general election. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do. Feature: Centuries-old Wu Opera staged in Cambodia ahead of Chinese New Year Xinhua) 10:28, February 09, 2026 PHNOM PENH, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- The iconic Chaktomuk Theater here in the capital of Cambodia came alive on Friday evening as its grand hall brimmed with dazzling lights, music, and applause when spectators enjoyed Wu Opera, a centuries-old art form from East China's Zhejiang Province. Performed by a troupe of artists from the China Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center to celebrate the Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, the event attracted approximately 800 spectators. At the event, the Zhejiang Wu Opera troupe performed six classic pieces, including "Lyu Bu Tries the Horse," "The Goddess of Heaven Scatters Flowers," "Divergent Path," Hui Hu Solo "Hui Tune," Suona Solo "Picking Dates," and "Three Triumphs Over the Skeletal Demon." Cambodian artists also entertained the audience with Apsara (fairy) dance, one of the traditional dances of the UNESCO-listed Royal Ballet of Cambodia. Each of the performances had drawn hearty rounds of applause. Phav Sophy, a sophomore at the Institute of Foreign Language under the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said the Wu Opera was truly amazing and helped her better understand China's diverse culture, tradition and customs. "This is the first time I've watched this performance, and I really like it," she told Xinhua after watching the show. "They (artists) are very talented and capable of performing their roles very well," the 23-year-old student said. "I feel that this show is unique and amazing." Sophy said such a performance was crucial to help promote cultural exchanges between China and Cambodia, contributing further to building a stronger Cambodia-China relationship. Wu Opera, also known as Jinhua Opera, is the second major theatrical genre in Zhejiang Province, and has a history of more than 500 years. It got its name from Wuzhou, the ancient name of Jinhua, and remains very popular there. In June 2008, Wu Opera was listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Cambodian Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona said the event was crucial to further deepening cultural relations and people-to-people exchange between Cambodia and China. "This will enable Cambodian spectators to gain better insights into ancient Chinese tradition, culture, and civilization," she said in her opening speech. She said the Chinese New Year is broadly celebrated in Cambodia as it is a special occasion for family gatherings, particularly among Cambodians of Chinese descent. Meanwhile, the minister expressed her heartfelt gratitude to China for having always provided both technical and financial support for the preservation and development of arts and culture in Cambodia. Thong Mengdavid, deputy director at the China-ASEAN Studies Center of the Cambodia University of Technology and Science, said this cultural show is a meaningful example of people-to-people and cultural diplomacy between Cambodia and China, connecting the two countries' cultures that go beyond celebration. "Such an event shows the shared appreciation of Asian civilizations, reinvigorating the cultural foundation of Cambodia-China relations," he told Xinhua. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ARRIVE Albuquerque, the newest hotel to debut in New Mexico's largest city, is set to celebrate its famed location along Route 66's Central Ave. stretch with a calendar of special offers and festivities. The lobby at ARRIVE Albuquerque ARRIVE Albuquerque, perched on Route 66 With its February 2025 debut from ARRIVE by Palisociety, ARRIVE Albuquerque ushered in a new dimension of hospitality in the city with its design-forward interiors, boutique amenities, and contemporary take on the Albuquerque lifestyle and sense of place. The hotel features 137 rooms set across six stories, a seasonal Zia-shaped pool and DWTNR, a signature restaurant and bar. Since its opening, the hotel has been featured in Travel + Leisure, AFAR, "The Today Show," New Mexico Magazine and more. ARRIVE Albuquerque sits on Central Ave. in the city's downtown core, along Albuquerque's 18-mile portion of Route 66. It is one of the longest urban stretches of the original highway and a well-traveled destination for visitors, alongside the Route 66 Visitor Center, 66 Diner and more. In 2026, Route 66 celebrates its Centennial, commemorating 100 years of the "Mother Road" that travels from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, and Albuquerque takes center stage as a key stop along the way with citywide events and activities. As part of its celebration, ARRIVE Albuquerque is debuting the "Road Trip Revival" offer on February 20th featuring $100 guest room rates and $166 suite guest room rates for the first 50 guests to redeem when booking on arrivehotels.com with the code ARRIVEON66, including a signature gift upon arrival and two locally sourced beers at check-in. At DWTNR, the Route 6 for 6 celebratory drink promotion debuts on April 30th, the day Route 66 was assigned its numerical designation, through November 11th, the day the road was officially commissioned. Route 6 for 6 is a daily, six-minute homage to the Mother Road where house cocktails will drop to $6 at the bartender's discretion no schedule, no notice, just an impromptu few minutes of fun. The hotel will also debut a commemorative collection of ARRIVE-designed apparel, mugs and pints for the Centennial, available for purchase on-site or at DWTNR. ARRIVE Albuquerque is located at 717 Central Ave NW in Albuquerque. For more information, visit arrivehotels.com or follow @arrivehotels. About ARRIVE by Palisociety A collection of community-inspired and design-forward boutique neighborhood hotels, ARRIVE by Palisociety provides low-key luxury, simplified service and a meeting ground for visitors who want to enjoy the true local flavor of the destination. Architectural and social landmarks, ARRIVE by Palisociety properties are custom to their locations, adding to the fabric of each city, with elements from local artists and makers that reflect the community's sensibilities. ARRIVE Hotels are located in Austin, Texas; Memphis, Tenn.; Palm Springs, Calif.; Wilmington, N.C.; and Albuquerque, NM. The brand was developed in 2021 when Palisociety acquired ARRIVE Hotel & Restaurants (established 2016). For more information, visit arrivehotels.com or follow @arrivehotels. PR Contact: RSPR for ARRIVE by Palisociety 323-419-5244 [email protected] SOURCE ARRIVE by Palisociety Under fire Sir Keir Starmer told Labour MPs I'm not prepared to walk away as he fought for his political survival. The Prime Minister addressed a packed meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) in Westminster on Monday evening, hours after a bombshell call from Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar for him to step down. Sir Keir, flanked by his Cabinet, struck a defiant note, telling MPs: "After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos as others have done." The Prime Minister addressed his MPs amid anger over his appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the US despite knowing that his links with Jeffrey Epstein continued after the financiers conviction for child sex offences. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer leaving the Houses of Parliament after announcing he is not resigning and will be "concentrating on the job in hand" (Yui Mok/PA Wire) Arguing he had changed the Crown Prosecution Service so it "better served victims of violence against women and girls" and changed the Labour Party so it could win an election, he said: "I have won every fight I've ever been in." Downing Street sources characterised the Prime Minister as "absolutely determined" but said he acknowledged his operation had not been "open or inclusive enough", and pledged to give more weight to the views of the PLP in a meeting described by MPs present as broadly positive towards Sir Keir. At Monday night's meeting there were more than 30 interruptions for applause from MPs, although one critic of the PM compared the scene with the Battle of the Little Bighorn - the Wild West massacre known as Custer's Last Stand. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to fight on (PA Wire) Sir Keir also paid tribute to his former chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, and apologised again for his decision to appoint Mandelson. And he issued a rallying call to his MPs, urging them to unite against Reform UK, describing the fight against Nigel Farage's party as "the fight of our lives". He said: "It goes to the heart and soul of who we are as a party, as a government, and as a country, what it is to be British. And if they ever get in, they will divide, divide, divide. And it will tear this beautiful country apart. That is the fight of our times." "I'll tell you this, as long as I have breath in my body, I'll be in that fight, on behalf of the country that I love and I believe in, against those that want to tear it up, he added. Wes Streeting arriving at Tuesdays cabinet meeting (REUTERS) Labour was plunged into civil war at the top level as the partys Scottish leader told Sir Keir Starmer to quit. Mr Sarwar used a hastily arranged press conference in the early afternoon to call for the PM to resign over the Mandelson scandal. Mr Sarwar said: "The distraction needs to end and the leadership in Downing Street has to change." He stressed it was up to Cabinet ministers now to make their own decisions about Sir Keirs future. A string of Cabinet ministers swiftly responded by rallying to the PMs support. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar (PA Archive) Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy messaged on X: Keir Starmer won a massive mandate 18 months ago, for five years to deliver on Labours manifesto that we all stood on. We should let nothing distract us from our mission to change Britain and we support the Prime Minister in doing that. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stressed: With Keir as our Prime Minister we are turning the country around. Communities Secretary Steve Reed also came to the PMs support. Keir led our party to victory and won a mandate for change, he posted on X. Speaking to Sky News's Electoral Dysfunction podcast Wes Streeting acknowledged that the atmosphere was "febrile", but said that "Keir Starmer doesn't need to resign". Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has backed Sir Keir Starmer (Getty Images) Mr Streeting, who has made no secret of his leadership ambitions, called on colleagues to give the PM "a chance". However, he has been accused by some in No10 of being behind efforts to topple Sir Keir. The Health Secretary is thought to have spoken to Mr Sarwar at the weekend, just days before the Scottish Labour leader said the Prime Minister should go. On Monday night, Mr Streeting published messages he had sent to Lord Mandelson in which he criticised the governments approach to growth. The move is likely an effort to distance himself from the former ambassador ahead of a potential leadership run. Health Secretary Wes Streeting (PA Wire) In messages to the disgraced peer, he suggested that the Government needs a better growth strategy and there was no clear answer to the question "why Labour?" Energy Secretary Ed Miliband indicated he disagreed with the suggestion, telling Sky News on Tuesday morning: "I think that actually Rachel [Reeves] has done a very good job as Chancellor. "I don't agree with - if that's what, I haven't seen the detail of the messages - but but I think we've seen the stability that is essential. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who just days ago led a Commons revolt against Sir Keir on the Mandelson papers, joined a full list of Cabinet ministers backing the PM on Monday afternoon, saying he had her full support. Mr Sarwar looked isolated, though he would have distanced Scottish Labour from the main party ahead of the elections for the Scottish Parliament. But his decision to speak out has dealt a blow to Sir Keir who some Labour MPs believe has only bought himself time until after the May local elections, which polls indicate will be very bad for Labour, before a more co-ordinated move is launched to oust him. The timing of when Cabinet ministers came out to back the PM on Monday afternoon will also be closely analysed as some may be seen to have been waiting to see if a major revolt was under way, or not, before publicly voicing their support for the premier. Earlier, Sir Keirs director of communications quit as the Prime Minister appeared to be losing grip on No10. Tim Allans departure comes after the PMs chief-of-staff Morgan McSweeney resigned 24 hours earlier over the decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as Britains ambassador to the US. In a statement, Mr Allan said: I have decided to stand down to allow a new No10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success. The Prime Minister hailed Morgan McSweeneys dedication, loyalty and leadership following his resignation (PA) (PA Wire) It was not clear if Mr Allan had quit of his own volition or if his departure was driven by Labour MPs demanding a complete reset of Sir Keirs Downing Street team. But his announcement plunged Sir Keirs attempts to remain Prime Minister into unprecedented jeopardy. Downing Street was forced to deny that Sir Keir was going to quit. Amid the latest turmoil in No10, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: "It's quite clear that Keir Starmer does not have a grip on his Government. "He is in office, but not in power, and our country is not being governed. Skills minister Baroness Jacqui Smith, centre It comes a day after Mr McSweeney quit as Sir Keirs chief of staff, taking full responsibility for giving the Prime Minister advice that resulted in the wrong appointment. But scrutiny of Sir Keirs own judgment is mounting as critics, including some of his MPs, have highlighted that he made the final decision. The pressure on his premiership looks unlikely to ease as the Government prepares for the lengthy process of releasing tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents relating to Lord Mandelsons appointment. Sir Keir believes the files will prove the former Labour grandee lied about the extent of his ties to the notorious paedophile Epstein during his vetting. Lord Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein (.) Sir Keir and Mr McSweeney, blamed by many for pushing for his ally Lord Mandelson to get the coveted ambassadorship, mutually came to the decision that it was the right moment for a new chief-of-staff, it is understood. The Prime Minister credited his longtime advisers dedication, loyalty and leadership for Labours 2024 general election win and said he owed him a debt of gratitude in a statement that did not mention the Lord Mandelson fiasco. Mr McSweeneys deputies, Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson, have been appointed joint acting chiefs of staff. Former UK Ambassador to the US Lord Peter Mandelson (PA) Two unnamed Cabinet ministers were quoted by The Times as saying Sir Keir was weaker and could stand down at any moment, a claim No 10 said was categorically untrue. Union chiefs also heaped pressure on the Labour leader, with Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright saying he should resign. Sir Keir was also expected to speak to the womens PLP after Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday and make on-camera interventions this week. He and Mr McSweeney have pinned blame on vetting by the security services for failing to disprove Lord Mandelsons claims that he barely knew the late financier, which were later dramatically debunked by disclosures in the so-called Epstein files. The King has said he will "stand ready to support" the police if approached over allegations about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct, Buckingham Palace has said. Charles has made clear his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light about his brother. It comes after Thames Valley Police said earlier on Monday it is assessing claims Mr Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. It is one of a number of a number of claims to emerge about the former Prince in the latest release of Epstein files. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: "The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct. "While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. "As was previously stated, Their Majesties' thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse." The King has said he will "stand ready to support" the police if approached over allegations about his brother (REUTERS) The Palace has not so far been approached by Thames Valley Police over the claims which relate to Andrew's time as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment. The Prince and Princess of Wales meanwhile publicly addressed the Epstein scandal for the first time on Monday, with Kensington Palace saying they were "deeply concerned" at the "continued revelations" and that their thoughts "remain focused on the victims". The comment from Buckingham Palace came after the King was heckled for the second time in a week about Andrew. He arrived at Clitheroe train station on Monday to greet crowds at the start of an awayday to Lancashire, when a man shouted: "How long have you known about Andrew?" The rest of the crowd booed after the question was asked. Just hours later, the Thames Valley force confirmed it was assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential reports with Epstein. King Charles III chats with members of the public outside Clitheroe Station, where he was heckled (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt has called on the King to publicly make clear that Andrew should testify before US congress over his links to Epstein, and to support removing his brother from the line of succession. Mr Hunt told the Press Association: "The royals are rattled and rightly so, with the statement from William and Kate failing because it contains warm words, but no hard action. "It's now time for King Charles to make clear publicly that he believes Andrew should testify before US lawmakers and that legislation needs to be passed to remove his brother as eighth in line to the throne. "If he doesn't, Charles runs the risk of his reign being remembered as one where the British monarchy failed to properly support Epstein's victims." Andrew, who was stripped of his titles by the King last year, has always denied any wrongdoing and last week finally left Royal Lodge for the King's private Sandringham estate, with Charles personally funding his new life with an annual stipend. Thames Valley police confirmed it was assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential reports with Epstein (REUTERS) The King also faced heckling on a visit to Dedham, Essex, last week, when a man shouted: "Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew?" Kensington Palace's statement is the first time the views of the prince and princess have been known on the scandal. William has arrived in Saudi Arabia for the start of his solo three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with the Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ahead of the visit, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said: "I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. "Their thoughts remain focused on the victims." With William embarking on the most important foreign visit of his public career, there was a sense from Kensington Palace that they wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known, so William could focus on the trip to one of the UK's closest Middle East allies. William and Kate supported the Kings decision to strip Andrew of his titles (Jordan Pettitt/PA) (PA Wire) Much of the work of the royal family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, despite the King's attempts to draw a line under the matter when he banished Andrew in October by stripping him of his right to be a prince and of his dukedom. The fresh trove of documents released by the US department of justice has sparked a string of allegations against Andrew and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in the latter's Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore in his role as the UK's trade envoy. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special adviser, Amir Patel. Another, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Andrew in the notorious photo with Virginia Giuffre, and Ghislaine Maxwell ((US Department of Justice/PA)) Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations to police. The Duke of Edinburgh was the first member of the royal family to publicly speak out since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to "remember the victims" when asked how he was "coping". William and Kate supported the King's decision to strip his brother Andrew of his Prince and Duke of York titles and HRH style, a move that ended his public life. The couple also shared the sentiments of the Buckingham Palace statement at the time, which said: "Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse." In 2022, the late Queen stripped her son Andrew of his honorary military roles and he gave up using his HRH style, in a dramatic fallout from the civil sex case brought by Virginia Giuffre, who died last year from suicide. Ms Giuffre alleged she was forced to have sex three times with Andrew, which he vehemently denies, including when she was 17, and also during an orgy, after she was trafficked by Epstein. Andrew paid millions to settle the civil sex case with her in 2022, despite insisting he had never met her. The King has to answer what he knew about Jeffrey Epstein and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, says California representative - Max Mumby/Indigo The King and Queen must answer questions about Jeffrey Epstein, a leading Democrat has demanded. Ro Khanna, who helped to force the release of the Epstein files, said Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors relationship with the paedophile could bring down the British monarchy. Mr Khanna said the Royal family is the most vulnerable it has ever been after fresh details about the former princes relationship with Epstein were laid bare in three million documents published by the US department of justice (DoJ) on Jan 30. On Friday, Lady Victoria Hervey, a former girlfriend of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, attempted to defend those mentioned in the files, saying it was an insult not to be. It would just mean you are a loser, she told LBC. Mr Khanna, referencing her highly-derided comment, said such opinions offer a window into the elite impunity of those in Epsteins orbit. He added: And by the way, I think this is the most vulnerable the British monarchy has ever been. I mean, I heard they were asking the Queen questions about the Epstein class. They ought to ask the King and Queen questions and maybe this will be the end of the monarchy. He continued: The King has to answer what he knew. What he knew about Andrew. On Monday, Buckingham Palace said the King had made clear his profound concern over the allegations about his brothers conduct and will stand ready to support the police if approach him over the claims. Ro Khanna, one of the architects of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, made the comments before a deposition of Ghislaine Maxwell - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS The recently-released files suggest Andrew maintained a close relationship with Epstein following his 2008 sex abuse conviction. On Monday, British police said they were examining claims that the former Duke of York sent confidential trade reports to the sex offender. The Prince of Wales is deeply concerned about the revelations coming out of the US investigation, his office said in a statement. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has always denied wrongdoing and maintains he was not privy to Epsteins crimes. He was stripped of his titles by the King in October 2025, which Mr Khanna insisted was not enough. Ro Khanna says the Royal family is the most vulnerable it has ever been - Justin Goff Photos The Queen did not answer shouted questions by a reporter on Feb 4 over whether the Royal family would help the Epstein investigation and if she had a message for his victims. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor is facing growing calls to testify about his relationship with Epstein before Congress. He is unlikely to do so voluntarily and US subpoena power does not extend to foreign nationals residing outside the country. Andrew needs to come before our committee and start answering questions. I mean, look, if you have allegations of raping a young girl, I dont think the the appropriate punishment is you no longer be a prince, theres got to be more than that, Mr Khanna said. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor claimed he cut contact with Epstein in 2006 when he was being investigated for sexual crimes against children, only getting back in touch to end their relationship in person in late 2010. However, the Epstein files reveal that in 2010, the then-prince invited Epstein for an intimate dinner in Buckingham Palace. A picture contained in the files also shows Mr Mountbatten-Windsor crouched on all fours looming over a woman lying flat on a floor. The former prince has faced further scrutiny after pictures released in the files showed him leaning over a woman - US Justice Department In another email from 2010 Epstein offered to set Mr Mountbatten-Windsor up to meet a 26-year-old Russian woman whom he describes as clever and beautiful two years after he was convicted for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Mr Khanna was speaking before a closed door deposition of Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins ex-girlfriend who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. Prior to the hearing, Maxwell indicated she would plead the fifth to all the questions related to Epstein, meaning she will remain silent and not share any information. Mr Khanna condemned Maxwell for refusing to speak freely. Who are the other co-conspirators, who were the other men who raped these underage girls, did she have any conversations about a deal with Donald Trump, he told reporters. Melania Trump, Andrew, Gwendolyn Beck and Jeffrey Epstein at a party at Mar-a-Lago in Florida in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/ARCHIVE PHOTOS He has been highly critical of the DoJ for only releasing half of the six millions files it holds on Epstein, accusing it of protecting the Epstein class with its blanket redactions. Mr Khanna, along with Thomas Massive, a prominent Republican, are the architects behind the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was signed into law by Mr Trump in November 2025, under considerable bipartisan pressure. Referring to the terrible revelations about Lord Mandelsons close ties with Epstein, Mr Khanna said it may bring down the whole government from what I hear. Lord Mandelson was sacked as ambassador to the US over his relationship with Epstein, who died in his jail cell in 2019. Emails in the latest files appeared to show Lord Mandelson passing confidential, market-sensitive information to the sex offender while serving as business secretary in Gordon Browns government. He is now under investigation for misconduct while in public office. The peer could face life in prison if found guilty. Lord Mandelson has denied any wrongdoing, saying the documents do not show any criminality on his part. Mr Brown, the former prime minister, said he deeply regrets bringing him into his government and denied knowing of his Epstein links. The attack by the Allied Democratic Forces took place on Saturday (AP Photo/Al-hadji Kudra Maliro) At least 20 people have been killed in an attack by Islamic State-backed rebels on a village in eastern Congo over the weekend, the military confirmed on Monday. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) carried out the assault early on Saturday in Mambimbi-Isigo village, located in the Lubero territory of North Kivu province. Colonel Alain Kiwewa Mitela, a military administrator, relayed the details to The Associated Press. The attack has triggered a significant displacement of residents, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis in the region, Col Mitela added. Local civil society activists reported that the rebels initially targeted several farmers' fields before turning on civilians with knives and firearms. There has been no immediate statement from the ADF. This toll is still provisional because many civilians are missing, Kinos Kitwa, head of civil society in Bapere, said. He criticized the small number of Congolese army troops in the area. Armed groups, including the ADF and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, have carried out several deadly attacks in eastern Congo. The ADF, which pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in 2019, operates along the border with Uganda and often targets civilians. At least 62 civilians have been killed since the beginning of the year by ADF fighters in the Beni and Lubero territories, according to the North Kivu Provincial Civil Society Coordination. On Monday, U.N. peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix began a two-day official visit to eastern Congo, including Beni, which has been particularly affected by ADF attacks. The ADF was formed by disparate small groups in Uganda in the late 1990s following discontent with President Yoweri Museveni. In 2002, following Ugandan military strikes, the group moved to neighboring Congo and has been blamed for the killings of thousands of civilians.In July 2025, the group carried out a series of attacks that killed more than 100 people. London tenants are suffering from the capital having the worst problem of damp in social housing in England, according to a Commons inquiry. The report by the Commons Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee also highlighted overcrowding in social homes in the city. The highest levels of damp in the social rented sector were present in London boroughs, it stressed. Florence Eshalomi, the committees chair and MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green, urged councils and housing associations in London to get better at fixing homes. She also stressed that they need to deal with complaints promptly. Florence Eshalomi, Labour MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green (UK Parliament) She told The Standard: People deserve warm, safe and decent places to live. Its very concerning that social homes in London are often more likely to have a problem with damp. The higher levels of damp social homes in the capital are despite it having less wet weather than many other regions. Landlords are now forced to investigate and fix damp and mould in social housing in England within strict timescales under a new law introduced following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak. He died from mould exposure at his Rochdale home in 2020. Rules on addressing other hazards, such as structural, excess cold and heat, as well as electrical issues, are being phased in. Ms Eshalomi stressed: Social landlords across the capital need to get better at fixing homes and addressing complaints promptly. While Awaabs law can help tenants with their landlords, we need the Government to come forward in its Long-term Housing Strategy with plans to invest in fixing existing stock and to build the social homes of the future. In the private rented sector, damp was most prevalent in Yorkshire and the Humber and the West Midlands, as well as throughout the East Midlands and parts of the South East, according to the Commons inquiry. Awaab Ishak, who died in December 2020 after exposure to mould at his housing association flat (PA Media) Shocking reports have also emerged of housing conditions in London including one family where sewage was coming up into the bath. A crackdown on rogue landlords renting out homes with mould and other dangers is being expanded across the capital. Ian McDermott, chief executive of the Peabody housing association, emphasised to the committee the enormous strain on the social housing sector, with hundreds of thousands of people waiting to get a home in the capital. Mr McDermott, who also chairs the G15 group of Londons leading housing associations, told the MPs that Peabody has a property in London built in the 1860s in which five people are living in one bedroom. Given the age of the property the rooms are small, he explained, so insulating the home internally is not possible because it would make the rooms even smaller, but they are unable to insulate the property externally either because it is protected. He said that ideally the family would be rehoused in a more suitably sized property, but the length of the local waiting list means that it would be many years, if not decades, before one becomes available. In London, the building of new affordable homes has almost ground to a halt in some boroughs. London is facing a housebuilding crisis (PA Archive) A study earlier this year also warned that the capital is facing its worst housebuilding crisis since the Second World War. The committees report stressed that raising the standard of social homes in England had stalled. Most social homes provide tenants with warm, safe and decent places to live, it concluded. But too many people living in social housing still suffer from appalling housing conditions and do not have their complaints treated seriously. The MPs s emphasised that the minimum standard of what is considered a decent home has not changed in 20 years. It is not acceptable that just under 430,000 social homes still fail to meet even this basic standard, they added. King Charles was heckled again over his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during a royal visit to Lancashire on Monday morning. As he met well-wishers at Clitheroe train station in Lancashire, a man shouted at Charles: How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Most of the crowd booed the question and Charles appeared to not react. Last Thursday, the King and Queen were heckled during a royal walkabout in the Essex village of Dedham. One person shouted: Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew? The royal family remain engulfed in the scandal following the latest tranche of Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice last month, resulting in a string of allegations against Andrew and his relationship with Epstein. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. There was also a picture in the files that appeared to show Andrew on the floor with a woman. A heckler asked King Charles how long he had known about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors association with Epstein during his visit to Clitheroe on Monday morning (The Independent) The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UKs trade envoy. The former duke has always denied any wrongdoing. On Monday, the Prince and Princess of Wales spoke out publicly for the first time on the scandal, saying they were deeply concerned, and their thoughts are with the victims. Last week, Prince Edward also commented, stating it was really important always to remember the victims when questioned over the latest release of files. Charles and Queen Camilla have not spoken publically on Andrew since the last release of files last year, when they shared their thoughts and utmost sympathies with the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse. The statement came as part of an announcement stripping Andrew of his last remaining titles. A photograph appearing to show Andrewcrouched over an unidentified woman released in the latest disclosure of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein (PA) On Monday, when appearing outside Clitheroe railway station, Charles was met with people wearing Union flag hats when the heckler shouted at him. Charles continued to shake peoples hands while some in the crowd booed the heckler. Soon after, Charles waved goodbye before getting into a car. The huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein has also led to police launching a investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. On Sunday, Sir Keir Starmers Downing Street chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned over his role in the appointment of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. Pressure remains on the prime minister over Lord Mandelson, as ministers await the publication of files relating to his appointment. Andrew Cunningham appeared before the Old Bailey (PA Archive) A 62-year-old man has admitted to killing his sister on the first day of his trial at the Old Bailey. Andrew Cunningham stabbed 57-year-old Margaret Cunningham to death on November 29, 2024. Police attended the scene just before 3pm, where Ms Cunningham was transported to the hospital. She sadly died later that evening. Cunningham was arrested in Rotherhithe, south London, and charged with murder. On February 9, the 62-year-old appeared at the Old Bailey via video-link. The defendant, of Greenland Quay, Rotherhithe, denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility, which was supported by agreement from medical experts for both the prosecution and defence. Prosecutor Nneka Akudolu KC said the plea had been considered at a high level and was acceptable to the Crown. Sentencing was adjourned by Judge Mark Lucraft KC until March 25. The judge told the defendant that the violent death of anyone, especially his sister, required "people to think about the impact of the loss of her life". "Any sentence the court passes, whatever the circumstances, will never equate to the loss of life," he went on. Hundreds of flood alerts and warnings are in place across the UK on Monday after the Met Office issued weather warnings for more heavy rain this week. Bands of heavy rain are set to batter parts of the south of England and Wales as a yellow weather warning is in place during Monday afternoon and evening, the forecaster said. At least 10 to 15mm of rain is likely fairly widely with 20 to 30mm expected in areas exposed to strong south to south-easterly winds, as the showers move in an easterly direction. Heavy rain will batter the south of England and Wales on Monday (Met Office) The Met Office warned that flooding on roads could cause travel disruption, impacting bus and train services, and also affect homes and businesses. There is also a chance of some interruption to power supplies, the forecaster warned. Further yellow weather warnings have been issued for persistent and at times heavy rain over Scotland all day on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a sprinkling of snow. Around 15 to 30mm of rain could fall widely on Tuesday, with 40 to 60mm possible in places over higher ground, impacting Central, Tayside, Fife and Grampian. Some snow may affect the highest roads in Aberdeenshire by the end of Tuesday. Tuesday's rain warning will cover parts of north-east Scotland (Met Office) On Wednesday, a further 20 to 30mm of rain could fall, with potential for another 40 to 60mm building up over high ground. As freezing levels lower from the North, snow is likely to fall above 300 to 400m, especially across Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perthshire, where 5 to 10cm of snow may accumulate by the end of Wednesday. Wednesday's weather warning is set to cover a wider part of Scotland (Met Office) Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has issued 108 flood warnings, where flooding is expected across England, and 218 flood alerts, where deluge is possible. A map shows south Wiltshire and Dorset, as well as parts of Gloucestershire and the West Midlands, would be hotspots for flooding. Only two flood alerts and four warnings are in place across Scotland on Monday, while Wales has seven alerts in place. The UK continues to face a persistent rainy spell, after the Met Office confirmed last week that rain had been recorded on every day of the year so far. There are hundreds of flood alerts and warnings in place across England on Monday (Environment Agency) After recording 36 days of rain in a row, Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon told The Independent: Rain has been reported somewhere in the network every day of the year so far. While amounts are trivial on some days, and some areas will have seen dry days, the UK has seen a wet start to the year, particularly in Northern Ireland and southern England. This has largely been down to a succession of fronts or low-pressure systems arriving from the west, bringing heavy rain at times, as well as damaging winds for some. Theres little sign of a let-up in the current forecast, with further unsettled weather in the coming days and over the weekend. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has numerous flood alerts active (PA Wire) Northern Ireland recorded its wettest January in 149 years the second wettest on record after Storm Chandra brought record-breaking rainfall across a number of UK sites. Katesbridge in County Down recorded a staggering 100.8mm of rain, far surpassing the previous site record of 38.2mm from 2005, on 26 January. Dunkeswell Aerodrome in Devon reached 52.8mm, while Hurn in Dorset, Cardinham in Cornwall, and Plymouth Mountbatten in Devon all exceeded their previous daily records. Already, parts of Leicestershire have seen flooded roads (PA) Met Office weather forecast for the week Monday A grey start for many with outbreaks of rain and drizzle. Staying largely cloudy, although some brighter spells possible. Heavy rain and strong winds pushing into the South West with a risk of flooding. Rather mild in the South. Cloudy skies for most tonight with further outbreaks of rain. Heavy rain and strong winds gradually easing in the South West. Tuesday Another dull start with outbreaks of rain and drizzle. A spell of heavy rain will move into the South, followed by sunshine and showers. Staying cloudy and damp elsewhere. Outlook for Wednesday to Friday Staying unsettled at first with further outbreaks of rain for many. Turning colder and brighter on Friday with a chance of snow showers, particularly in the North and East. Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie at the world premiere of Wuthering Heights in Hollywood, January 2026 - Olivia Wong/WireImage Wuthering Heights hasnt hit the UKs screens yet, but the Byronic showmance between its stars is moving at warp speed to Planet Vomit. Every time I look at the news, theres Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie wrapped around each other like poison ivy, waxing lyrical about their mutual obsession until you pray theyre arrested for public indecency. Do the filmmakers really believe that the public are such a bunch of infantile literalists that they cant watch romantic drama unless they have been tricked into thinking the stars are in lurve IRL? We want to be seduced, not patronised. Its one thing to be entertained by a films PR effort, but quite another to be prodded, driven with all the subtlety of a Sherman tank. The thinking behind it all seems to run: Cathy and Heathcliff are consumed, fixated and codependent, so Jacob and Margot must be too! The language in every interview is so contrived that you begin to think there might be a script lurking in some publicists drawer. Take Robbies breathy revelation that, if Elordi wasnt in her line of vision on set, she felt quite lost, like a kid without their blanket or something. Or her gushing description of her co-star filling her dressing room with roses on Valentines Day during the shoot. Or the unhinged private screening of the film she held for 20 girlfriends, where the women behaved like rabid dogs as they screamed and sobbed at Elordis performance. The stars on last Fridays Graham Norton Show on BBC One - Jas Lehal/PA Media Assignments/Jas Lehal/PA Media Assignments But if you really want to be sick in your mouth, then its my solemn duty to inform you that Robbie presented Elordi with a signet ring by British jeweller Cece Fein-Hughes, who told Vogue she spent her early childhood roaming Dartmoor. The resulting jewel is the twin version of Robbies own ring, complete with two embracing skeletons, red rose briars, Cathys and Heathcliffs initials, and the famous Emily Bronte quote: Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. Geddit? These two stars are so infernally mind-melded you might as well call them Margob, or Jacot. Robbie and Elordis matching rings feature the famous Emily Bronte quote: Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same Of course, weve been here before many times, and on occasion its even been authentic. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall fell headlong in love in 1944 on the set of To Have and Have Not and were married the following year. Bacall said in her memoir of their 12-year marriage, which ended with Bogarts death from throat cancer, No one has ever written a romance better than we lived. And, only last year, we enjoyed the rom-com style banter between Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson during the publicity campaign for the remake of The Naked Gun. He was madly in love with her and she would follow him anywhere. The fact they appear to have genuinely dated for a short spell following the films wrap (what Anderson called blowing off steam) made the flirting very sweet. But mockmance is more common than true barnstorming passion, and can prove a perilous game. When the world discovered that the once mutually admiring stars of It Ends With Us Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni were engaged in a venomous feud, it killed the movies vibes stone dead. Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson flirted with each other during the publicity campaign for The Naked Gun last year - Getty Images/John Phillips And, returning to Robbie and Elordi, the actresss constant eulogising of her co-star actually feels a bit tasteless, considering that Robbie is married to British film producer Tom Ackerley and they have an infant son together. OK, Ackerley is in the business and is an executive producer on Wuthering Heights, so he knows the score about movie promotion. But, even so, it must be tough to watch your wife making eyes at the 28-year-old currently feted as the hottest man in showbusiness. As Kurt Vonnegut said, We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be. I know actors have to flog movies, but if I were Elordi or Robbie Id tone down the twin-souls guff for the sake of both her private life and the publics queasy stomach. For the first time, it was the turn of Ireland to host the Michelin guide as it announced its UK and Ireland guide for 2026, announced tonight in The Convention Centre in Dublin. London fared well, with nine new one star restaurants, and two new two stars. The only restaurant to lose its star this year was Humo in Mayfair, which held a star in 2024 and 2025. Club Gascon has also not made the guide, though this is likely because it has announced it is to close next month. Devised by the Michelin brothers in France in 1899, the guide first awarded stars in 1926. Initially a handy list of restaurants for those who had a car at the time, the guide gradually morphed from a facet of leisure to a marker of consumer status and lifestyle, placing an authoritative spotlight on restaurants around France. A testament to its influence as a governing body, the Michelin guide is now internationally recognised in a way thats unique. The winning and losing of stars is still able to make or break restaurants which only gains poignancy as restaurants, particularly in the UK, muddle through an increasingly bleak wilderness. Stars are awarded through Michelins nebulous body of inspectors, the most feared and revered group of Mystery Shoppers ever to book a table. The star ranking is defined as follows: One High quality cooking, worth a stop Two Excellent cooking, worth a detour Three Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey In 2020, Michelin established the awarding of green stars, in recognition of sustainability. This years winners included ... with, notably, none in London. In total, London has 88 Michelin restaurants in 2026, compared to the 85 in the 2025 guide. Though there were 11 new additions, the relatively slight increase is in part down to some losses owing to closures, with La Dame de Pic, the City; Bibendum; Dosa; Cornerstone; and The Five Fields all going since last years guide. Here are all of Londons one, two and three-star restaurants. Restaurants in London with three Michelin stars Restaurants in London with two Michelin stars Matt Abe at his debut restaurant Bonheur (Bonheur) NEW: Row on 5, Savile Row. Spencer Metzger and Jason Athertons extremely, extremely good restaurant gets the recognition it deserves. Highly unusual for a restaurant to go from one star to two in just a year, but if anywhere should have achieved the feat, its this place. Read our write up here. 5 Savile Row, W1S, rowon5london.com NEW: Bonheur by Matt Abe, Mayfair. A big challenge, in some senses, for chef Matt Abe. Not only was this his debut restaurant, having left three-star Restaurant Gordon Ramsay after decades of service, but the address itself comes with huge expectations, having been the legendary La Gavorche. Abes cooking is beyond accomplished; three stars surely beckon next year. Read our review here. 43 Upper Brook Street, W1K, bonheurbymattabe.com Humble Chicken, Soho. Humble Chicken was founded by chef Angelo Sato in 2021. It launched as a casual yakitori bar, but Sato switched to a more elevated concept in 2023, reopening with a 185, 16-course tasting menu. Since winning its second star in 2025, the omakase tasting menu comes in at a slightly less humble 235 for lunch and dinner. 54 Frith Street, W1D, humblechickenuk.com The Ritz, Piccadilly. The Ritz Restaurant, led by the much-loved chef John Williams, earned its first star in 2017 and many had tipped it to move up to two. It is the epitome of luxury, elegance and fine dining. The service might be the best in the world. 150 Piccadilly, W1J, theritzlondon.com Gymkhana, Mayfair. JKS flagship Indian restaurant in Mayfair is a haven to rich, elegant dining, where the lamb chops are as tender as any in London and the biryani celebrated by any who encounter it. 42 Albemarle Street, W1S, gymkhanarestaurants.com Brooklands, Belgravia. French chef Claude Bosi did the same thing at Bibendum, entering the Guide not with one star, but two. Brooklands is less a homage to classical French cuisine but just as much a nest of opulence, found inside the Peninsula hotel. Read our review. 1 Grosvenor Place, SW1X, brooklandslondon.com Trivet, Southwark. Ex-Fat Duck chef Johnny Lake partners with master sommelier Isa Bal at this airy Bermondsey restaurant, where the menu moves from crispy chicken wings to cured sea bass, and the wine list, perhaps the most thorough in the UK, explores everywhere from Georgia to Lebanon. Read our review. 36 Snowsfields,SE1, trivetrestaurant.co.uk Alex Dilling at the Cafe Royal, Piccadilly. The dining room at the Cafe Royal has been home to Dilling since September 2022, after his departure from the Greenhouse during the pandemic. The menu, which modernises fine French classics, has proved a hit. 68 Regent Street, W1B, alexdilling.com Ikoyi, The Strand. The restaurant famous for combining West African spices with British ingredients rises from one to two stars. The award is likely to be a popular one few places are so widely and regularly praised. Read our review. 180 Strand, WC2R, ikoyilondon.com The Clove Club, Shoreditch. Isaac McHales restaurant with an innovative British menu, using often-overlooked ingredients, won two stars last in 2022 and has retained them for 2024. Read our review. Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Street, EC1V, thecloveclub.com A. Wong, Pimlico. Andrew Wongs world-famous restaurant in Pimlico deservedly holds onto its two stars with a menu celebrating flavours from across China. 70 Wilton Road, SW1V, awong.co.uk Da Terra, Hackney. Rafael Cagalis East London spot continues to be a winning one. Food here is incredibly detailed, perhaps as Cagali once worked at The Fat Duck. 8 Patriot Square, E2, daterra.co.uk Restaurant Story, London Bridge. Tom Sellers restaurant, with a British tasting menu of seasonal dishes, stays at two. The news is impressive given its recent overhaul, which saw the restaurant shut for much of last year. 199 Tooley Street, SE1, restaurantstory.co.uk Kitchen Table, Bloomsbury. The intimate 19-seater counter-only restaurant which changes its menu daily, retains both its Michelin stars. 70 Charlotte Street, W1T, kitchentablelondon.co.uk Dinner by Heston, Knightsbridge. Heston Blumenthals restaurant, serving modern dishes inspired by historic British gastronomy, keeps both its stars. 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X, mandarinoriental.com Restaurants in London with one Michelin star Nieves Barragan at her newly-starred restaurant Legado (Sam Cornish) NEW: Legado, Shoreditch. Nieves Barragans second restaurant joins her first, Sabor, with a star. The suckling pig is a must. We tried to bring Spain to Shoreditch, said Barragan at the awards. Read our review. Unit 1C Montacute, E1, legadorestaurants.com NEW: Tom Brown at the Capital, Knightsbridge. Tom Brown returns to the Michelin guide after the closure of his first project, Cornerstone. Brown launched with a tasting menu but later ditched it, but here employs all his signature moves, to great effect. Read our review. 22-24 Basil Street, SW3, tombrownatthecapital.com NEW: Ambassadors Clubhouse, Mayfair. Something of a party spot from the JKS group, with a lively bar and food built for sharing. Extremely stylish, and with a good value lunch menu too. 25 Heddon Street, W1B, ambassadorsclubhouse.com NEW: Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High, the City. Gordon Ramsays second RGR following his three star original in Chelsea is famed for its stunning views over the capital. Chef James Goodyear cooks for just 12 each night, to extraordinary effect. 22 Bishopsgate, EC2N, gordonramsayrestaurants.com NEW: Labombe by Trivet, Park Lane. Trivets rather simpler little sister is more approachable, and for that reason rather more fun to be in. 19 Old Park Lane, W1K, labombe.co.uk NEW: The Kerfield Arms, Camberwell. A gastropub, but more than that too, serving modern British places with a joyful Italian twist, and French influences too. 16 Grove Lane, SE5, thekerfieldarms.co.uk NE W : Corenucopia by Clare Smyth, Pimlico. The famed chef said her intentions were to be more relaxed here, with the restaurant sometimes described as her take on a bistro. Perhaps not entirely true it is still very upmarket but Smyth is a brilliant chef and it will always show. 18-22 Holbein Place, SW1W, corenucopia.com NEW: Somssi by Jihun Kim, Knightsbridge. This 14-seat counter restaurant serves some of Londons very best Korean food. 22 Hanover Square, W1S, mandarinoriental.com NEW: Michael Caines at the Stafford, St Jamess. A mere five months after opening, Michael Caines picked up a star at the much-loved hotel. The style is traditional fine-dining, in comforting surrounds. 16-18 St James's Place, SW1A 1NJ, thestaffordlondon.com 64 Goodge Street, Fitzrovia. Michelin success is no new thing for the Woodhead Group, who own and operate 64 Goodge Street, as sister site Portland has long held this coveted accolade. Its a triumph to see a star bestowed here, under the direction of chef Stuart Andrew. 64 Goodge Street, W1T, 64goodgestreet.com AngloThai, Marylebone. Thai food in London has long been overlooked by the French tyre company but the inclusion of AngloThai represents Michelin finally starting to pay attention to the food people are actually eating. The restaurant has gone from strength to strength in the past year. Read our full review here. 22-24 Seymour Place, W1H, anglothai.com Caractere, Notting Hill. Emily Roux was cooking in Notting Hill before Notting Hill was cool. Rouxs restaurant, opened with husband Diego Ferrari, continues her familys longstanding culinary legacy with Michelin recognising it in its seventh year. Read our full review here. 209 Westbourne Park Road, W11, caractere.co.uk Michael Caines at his restaurant inside the Stafford Hotel (Press handout) Cornus, Belgravia. Cornus seemed somehow built for stars. Swanky postcode, fine ingredients, gently modernised takes on fine French cookery: tick, tick and tick. Read our full review here. 27C Eccleston Place, SW1, cornusrestaurant.com Lita, Marylebone. When Lita opened, the cooking already felt accomplished and this award solidifies it as one of the very best places to eat in London. Yes, the prices are eye-watering, but this is not only the best cooked-over-coals restaurant in town, its one of the best places in London to eat out. Read our full review here. 7-9 Paddington Street, W1U, litalondon.com Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, Westminster. While this restaurant might not be to everyones taste (read our full review here) there is no doubt that Michelin loves the work of Mauro Colagreco, his flagship Mirazur in Menton, France, having already received the maximum three stars. The OWO, 7 Horseguards Avenue, SW1A, raffles.com OMA, Borough. This one was a surprise to many in the 2025 guide, not because the food isnt of an extremely high calibre it is but because its not the sort of place Michelin usually awards stars to. But perhaps the old tyre firm is getting better: OMA is certainly a restaurant deserving of this accolade. 2-4 Bedale Street, SE1, oma-london.com Chishuru, Fitzrovia. Adejoke Bakares West African restaurant maintains its star for its detailed approach to modern Nigerian dining. 3 Great Titchfield Street, W1W, chishuru.com Plates, Shoreditch. The UKs first plant-based restaurant has been breaking the mold since it opened. Chef Kirk Haworth formerly at Restaurant Sat Bains and a Great British Menu winner and his sister Keeley launched this highly progressive concept to huge plaudits in 2024. 320 Old Street, EC1V, plateslondon.com SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dreame Pool, a leading global innovator in robotic pool cleaning solutions, successfully hosted its Silicon Valley investor event on February 6, unveiling a comprehensive roadmap for the future of outdoor living. The event marked a strategic milestone as the company expands its technological expertise into a fully integrated smart outdoor ecosystem. The showcase featured the North American debut of the T7 Pool Pump and N10 Weather Station, alongside the CES 2026-debuted Zircon 2 robotic pool cleaner series and J1 Robotic Pool Skimmer. Dreame Robotic Pool Cleaner Showcase at Silicon Valley Launch "The future of the backyard is autonomous," said a spokesperson for Dreame Pool. "By integrating our advanced robotic cleaners with intelligent water management and environmental sensing tools, we are closing the loop to create a self-regulating outdoor environment." Advancing Intelligent Pool Cleaning: the Zircon 2 Series The Zircon 2 Ultra, engineered for pools up to 4,300 square feet, combines an industry-leading 10,000 GPH suction power with Dreame's proprietary PulseMap Laser 3D mapping technology and QuadLift four-pump system. This flagship model delivers 7-in-1 cleaning coverage across pool surfaces, floors, walls, corners, steps, waterlines, and shallow zones. By integrating LDS laser radar with multi-sensor fusion, PulseMap constructs accurate 3D pool models for adaptive navigation and obstacle avoidance. The model also features Surface Docking, allowing users to command the robot to surface at a preferred location for easy retrieval, while its high-capacity battery supports up to six hours of continuous cleaning. The Zircon 2 Pro delivers a professional-grade, hands-free cleaning experience through its optional Auto-Dock Base Station. After each cleaning cycle, the robot automatically returns to the dock and exits the water to rechargeeliminating manual handling. Powered by PoolSense 2.0, the Zircon 2 Pro utilizes 12 precision sensors to generate efficient 2D maps and structured cleaning paths. The unit delivers 8,000 GPH suction power and up to four hours of deep cleaning per charge. Integrated DepthLink ultrasonic underwater communication ensures stable real-time status monitoring, mapping visualization, and remote control via the Dreame companion app. Smart Infrastructure for Connected Outdoor Management Beyond robotic cleaning, Dreame Pool introduced new infrastructure products designed to enhance outdoor automation, energy efficiency, and environmental intelligence. The T7 Pool Pump achieves high-performance water circulation with IE4 energy efficiency standards, providing up to 9250GPH of flow and 60 feet of head with an 1.5 HP output, leading other products of the same power in terms of efficiency and performance. Through the Dreame mobile app, users can monitor temperature and water flow metrics in real time and customize speed control settings for optimized performance and energy management. Acting as the central nervous system for the outdoor ecosystem, the N10 Weather Station offers comprehensive 7-in-1 sensing, tracking TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds), wind, rainfall, UV index, barometric pressure, temperature and humidity, and light intensity. Featuring solar-powered operation with Wi-Fi connectivity, the N10 enables remote monitoring and data synchronization. Integrated with the Dreame app's smart dashboard, the weather station enables automated control of irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, thermostats, and other connected outdoor devices based on real-time environmental conditions. Strengthening Surface Cleaning with Solar-Powered Automation The J1 Robotic Pool Skimmer focuses on continuous surface maintenance. Featuring a Dual Power System with an 18W solar panel and a 5,000mAh battery, it captures sunlight for seamless performance, ensuring a debris-free pool surface with minimal manual recharging. About Dreame Technology Founded in 2017, Dreame is a global leader in high-end consumer electronics and intelligent manufacturing, committed to empowering lives through intelligent home solutions. For more information, visit pool.dreametech.com. SOURCE Dreame Technology No new restaurants in Great Britain and Ireland have been awarded the illustrious three Michelin star rating, despite much speculation Irelands first would be named. Michelin revealed its latest guide at a ceremony in Dublin on Monday night, the first time the event has been held in the country. Ten restaurants retained their three Michelin star status, but no new names were added to the prestigious list. Chefs celebrate their Michelin stars at the launch of the The Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026 in Dublin (Handout/PA) There had been predictions Ireland had been chosen to host the event because the countrys first three star restaurant would be added to the guide. Two eateries, Row on 5 and Bonheur by Matt Abe, both in London, were elevated to two-star status. Among the 20 recipients of their first Michelin star is Fifty Two at Rudding Park in Harrogate which is known for its Dessert Islands Discs, where guests choose music to play and chef Adam Degg said they try to create a party in the restaurant. Mare by Rafael Cagali became the first Michelin stared restaurant in Brighton and Hove in nearly 50 years. Two Restaurants Newly Awarded Two MICHELIN Stars in The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026From the latest Two-Star restaurants to 20 new One-Stars and five Special Awards, discover everything you need to know from The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony 2026https://t.co/AzM6wSXDOt pic.twitter.com/upeF3Z5zkm The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 A Galway restaurant, The Pullman which is housed in two restored Orient Express carriages, also picked up a star. Alexander Claridge, of The Wilderness in Birmingham which also collected its first star, said the city doesnt take itself too seriously, but it is serious about food. When you love what you do, its easy and we love what we do, was John Wyer of Forest Avenue in Dublins response when his restaurant was awarded a star. The 2026 Young Chef Award went to Tom Earnshaw of Bohemia on Jersey. Tom Earnshaw (centre) with Mary Jewell and Stuart Campbell of sponsors La Rousse Foods (Handout/PA) He said he was inspired by walking his dog on the beach, saying it is one of the benefits of working on an island, and adding: Just nice to get away from it all sometimes. Sebbs in the centre of Glasgow received the Exceptional Cocktail Award. Shwen Shwen in Kent was named Opening of the Year, it describes itself as bringing the flavours of Sierra Leone to the heart of Sevenoaks. Maria Bradford said her familys restaurant literally represents the underrepresented. New MICHELIN-Star Restaurants for 2026 in Great Britain & Ireland Discover all of Great Britain & Irelands brand-new MICHELIN-Star restaurants, from grand historic settings to neighbourhood hauntshttps://t.co/7v3gh3Z9gq pic.twitter.com/crXvzj8lT6 The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay handed out the prize for Sommelier of the Year, which went to Roxane Dupuy of Row on 5 in London. He also gave out the Service Award which went to Barbara Nealon of Saint Francis Provisions in Kinsale, Co Cork. When asked what makes great services, she quipped just liking your customers. Barbara Nealon and head chef Rebeca Recarey-Sanchez of Saint Francis Provisions in County Cork, with Gordon Ramsay (Handout/PA) Green stars were also awarded to seven restaurants who have embraced a responsible and mindful approach to gastronomy. In a video address played during the ceremony, the guides international director, Gwendal Poullennec, described the evening as a true historic event for Irish hospitality. He added that it was a milestone that recognises not only exceptional cooking, but the people, places and passion that define Irish food culture and hospitality. A prison nurse who smuggled a mobile phone into jail for a drugs operation has been struck off the nursing register after regulators ruled she had brought the profession into disrepute. Kymberley Finn, 33, was working at HMP Durham on an agency contract when she became involved in what police described as a complex organised drug conspiracy. The scheme unravelled when officers searching a cell at HMP Northumberland in August 2022 discovered a phone containing messages about drugs and also discovered contraband. Finn, from Boldon Colliery, was one of eight people sentenced in January 2025 over the wider plot to smuggle drugs into HMP Northumberland and HMP Durham. She was not charged with drug offences but admitted conspiracy to convey prohibited articles into prison. She received a ninemonth jail term, suspended for 18 months, along with rehabilitation requirements. Kimberley Finn was named a significant participant in the conspiracy to smuggle a phone into prison (ROCU) Following this conviction, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) launched misconduct proceedings. In its January 2026 ruling, the panel said Finn had been a significant participant in a conspiracy involving several other people to introduce a banned item to a prison and had knowingly abused her position. Taking into account Miss Finns significant breach of trust and her own understanding that what she was doing was illegal, the panel found that maintenance of public confidence in the nursing profession required a finding of impairment, the decision stated. Members of the public would be appalled if a registered nurse were not found impaired in circumstances where the nurse had abused their position of trust in this way. The panel acknowledged Finns early guilty plea, her previously good character, and the fact that no patient had been harmed. But it concluded that anything short of striking her off would be disproportionate to the gravity of the offence and insufficient to address public interest concerns. Finn has now been removed from the NMC register, barring her from working as a registered nurse, midwife or nursing associate. The panel concluded that the seriousness of Finns behaviour is at a high level and her actions are fundamentally incompatible with her remaining on the register. The man who killed 51 Muslim worshippers in New Zealands deadliest mass shooting is seeking to have his guilty pleas discarded. Brenton Tarrant claims that he felt forced to admit to the crimes because of irrationality, brought on by harsh prison conditions. He claims that he was not fit to plead to the charges, which included terrorism, murder, and attempted murder, following the March 2019 attack in Christchurch. Three judges at the countrys Court of Appeal will hear five days of evidence about the claims. If Tarrants bid is successful, his case will return to court for a trial, which was averted when he admitted to the shooting in March 2020. He is also seeking to appeal his sentence of life without the chance of parole, which had never been imposed in New Zealand before. Tarrants evidence about his mental state when he pleaded guilty, given on Monday, was the first time he had spoken substantively in a public setting since he livestreamed the 2019 massacre on Facebook. Tarrant argues that his guilty pleas should be discarded (AFP/Getty) Tarrant claims he suffered nervous exhaustion The Australian man, a self-declared white supremacist, migrated to New Zealand with a view to committing the massacre, which he planned in detail. He amassed a cache of semiautomatic weapons, took steps to avoid detection, and wrote a lengthy manifesto before he drove from Dunedin to Christchurch in March 2019 and opened fire at two mosques. Along with 51 people killed, the youngest a 3-year-old boy, dozens of others were severely wounded. The attack was considered one of New Zealands darkest days and institutions have sought to curb the spread of Tarrants message through legal orders and a ban on possession of his manifesto or video of the attack. Mondays hearing took place under tight security constraints that severely limited who could view Tarrants evidence. The group included some reporters and those hurt or bereaved in the massacre. Tarrant, who wore a white button-down shirt and black-rimmed glasses and had a shaved head, spoke on video from a white-walled room in prison. Answering questions from a Crown lawyer and from lawyers representing him, Tarrant, 35, said his mental health had deteriorated due to conditions in prison, where he was held in solitary confinement with limited reading material or contact with other prisoners. By the time he pleaded guilty, Tarrant said he was suffering from nervous exhaustion and uncertainty about his identity and beliefs. He told the court that he had admitted to the crimes a few months before his trial was due to begin because there was little else I could do. Crown says no evidence of serious mental illness Crown lawyer Barnaby Hawes suggested to Tarrant during questioning that the Australian man had other options. He could have requested a delay in his trial date on mental health grounds or could have proceeded to trial and defended himself, Hawes said. Hawes also put to Tarrant that there was little evidence in the documentation of his behavior by mental health experts and prison staff that he was in any kind of serious mental crisis. Tarrant suggested that signs of mental illness he displayed had not been recorded and that at times he had sought to mask them. I was definitely doing everything possible to come across as confident, assured, mentally well, he told the court. Tarrants behavior reflected the political movement Im a part of, he added. So I always wanted to put on the best front possible. He agreed that he had had access to legal advice throughout the court process. Tarrants current lawyers have been granted name suppression because they feared representing him would make them unsafe. Decision is due later Bids to appeal convictions or sentences in New Zealand must be made within 20 working days. Tarrant was about two years late in seeking an appeal, filing documents with the court in September 2022. He told the court Monday that his bid had been late because he had not had access to the information required to make it. The hearing is due to run for the rest of the week but the judges are expected to release their decision at a later date. If they reject Tarrants attempt to have his guilty pleas discarded, a later hearing will focus on his bid to appeal his sentence. Nathan Bennett previously admitted 13 other charges relating to four of the five victims, who were aged two at the time (Avon and Somerset Police) A nursery worker has been found guilty of sexually abusing children in a horrific case that was every parents nightmare. Nathan Bennett was caught on CCTV displaying predatory behaviour toward young children, including putting his hands down the trousers of a child, as he worked at the Partou King Street nursery in Bristol. After his arrest following a six-month police investigation, a trial at Bristol Crown Court was told Bennett showed a jealous attachment with five children and would take control of them. On Monday, the 30-year-old was found guilty of eight charges, including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration, relating to children aged two or three. He previously admitted to 13 other charges relating to four of the five victims, who were aged two at the time. Virginia Cornwall, prosecuting, told the jury at the beginning of the trial that the events at the now-closed nursery were you may think, every parents nightmare. Following Bennetts conviction, the families of the victims said they were devastated by the horrific abuse children have suffered at the hands of someone whom we all trusted to care for them. Bennett was found guilty at Bristol Crown Court (PA) The trial heard how, less than a year after Bennett began working at the nursery in July 2024, the manager, Victoria Tutton, saw CCTV footage showing him placing his hands down a childs trousers, and reported him to the police. The jury was told how staff had noted him sit children on his lap for lengthy periods of time, wear a pair of trousers with holes in the crotch area, and seemed territorial over certain toddlers and their parents. During the trial, one of the victims, referred to in court as Child E, gave evidence, aged just three. He described how he was sexually assaulted by Bennett in the toilet area of the nursery. Then I turned around and he was gone, the boy said. Giving evidence, Bennett, of Corston, Bath, said he was emulating what was done to him as a child and denied having a sexual attraction to children. He was convicted of two charges of raping a child, four charges of sexual assault of a child and two charges of assault of a child by penetration. Bennett previously pleaded guilty to eight charges sexual assault of a child, four charges of causing a child to engage in sexual activity and one charge of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. Following the jurys verdict, Bennett was remanded in custody by Judge William Hart ahead of sentencing on 16 March. I will sentence you for what will inevitably be a very long sentence of custody, the judge warned Bennett. After Bennett was sent down, families of the abused children said they had been left devastated by Bennetts crimes. In a statement issued by law firm Leigh Day, which represents several of the families involved, they said: Nothing can begin to explain the shock, anger and heartbreak we feel or the profound and lasting impact we are sure this will have on families. The children were innocent and completely vulnerable; they were in a place that should have been safe. The families are now calling for answers on why Bennett was allowed to work with young children and what checks were made. Detective Constable Bethany Cook, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: "Nathan Bennett was trusted to care for very young children, but instead committed sexual offences against them at his place of work. This investigation involving such young children was deeply challenging and distressing for all concerned, and I would like to commend the support and strength shown by those families. This case has caused significant anxiety for other families whose children attended the nursery during the time these offences were committed and, when appropriate, weve tried to keep them informed. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said the king had made clear his profound concern at allegations of Andrews conduct. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian (Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian) King Charles has expressed his profound concern over allegations about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and will stand ready to support the police if approached over the claims, Buckingham Palace has said. Thames Valley police confirmed on Monday they were assessing claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as a government trade envoy with the child sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein in 2010. Mountbatten-Windsor is suspected of forwarding official reports about overseas trips to Singapore, China, Hong Kong and Vietnam in 2010 and 2011, allegations which have emerged after the release of emails by the US Department of Justice earlier this month. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said on Monday evening: The king has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct. The spokesperson added that the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, but said that if we are approached by Thames Valley police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. As was previously stated, Their Majesties thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse, they said. Thames Valley police previously confirmed it was also assessing a report that a second woman claimed she was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with the then prince, which allegedly occurred at his former Royal Lodge residence in 2010. The woman, who is not British, was in her 20s at the time. The release of documents includes emails indicating that on 7 October 2010, the then Prince Andrew sent Epstein details of his official upcoming trips to Singapore, Vietnam, Shenzhen in China and Hong Kong. After the trip, on 30 November, he appears to have forwarded official reports of those visits sent by his then special assistant, Amit Patel, to Epstein, five minutes after receiving them. It is unclear if the documents contained market-sensitive information about British trade deals or whether the then prince had signed the Official Secrets Act. Government guidance stresses that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, the guidance reads. This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply. Earlier on Monday William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales, were said by a spokesperson to be deeply concerned by continuing revelations from the Epstein files. In a statement, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. William arrived on Monday in Saudi Arabia for a three-day tour of the country, and Kensington Palace is said to have wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known to allow William to focus on the tour. Much of the work of the royal family has been overshadowed since the release by the US Department of Justice of more than 3m documents associated with Epstein. Related: I am always on your team!!: how Andrews aide kept close ties with Epstein right to the end Previously disclosed emails have suggested that the former duke had lobbied on behalf of Epstein during an official visit to the United Arab Emirates with his parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, in 2010. The messages concerning overseas trips were sent after the financiers 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Others appear to have been sent after the December 2010 date that Mountbatten-Windsor said in a BBC Newsnight interview in 2019 that he had cut off contact with Epstein. On Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand province, Afghanistan, the Telegraph reported. In one email, with the subject line Afghanistan International Investment opportunities, Mountbatten-Windsor is said to have written: I am going to offer this elsewhere in my network (including Abu Dhabi) but would be very interested in your comments, views or ideas as to whom I could also usefully show this to attract some interest. In another, on 9 February 2011, Mountbatten-Windsor appeared to tell Epstein he had visited a private equity firm the week before and thought of you as =ou [sic] were looking for somewhere for money to go. A. Mountbatten-Windsor, who served as the UKs special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011, has always denied any wrongdoing. He has been approached for comment. Graham Smith, the chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations to police. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson, he said in a post on X. The former prince features numerous times in the latest release of documents, including images that appear to show him crouched over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epsteins New York mansion, while another document appears to confirm that the picture of him with Virginia Giuffre, who alleged that Mountbatten-Windsor had sex with her three times while she was a teenager, is real. Prince Edward was the first royal to speak publicly since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to remember the victims when asked how he was coping since the revelations. Williams visit, at the request of the UK government, will include talks with the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman. The visit aims to strengthen ties with one of the UKs closest Middle East allies, with London and Riyadh hopeful the two men, who have met before, will develop a connection. Prince Mohammed is a controversial figure to the west, as the de facto head of an absolute monarchy whose regime has been accused of human rights violations. His reputation was badly damaged by a US intelligence claim he had ordered the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which he denied. Thames Valley Police said it is assessing claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports from his role as trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein. Emails released by the US Department of Justice last month appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then special adviser, Amir Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and talks. Andrew then appeared to loop Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on Christmas Eve of 2010. A photograph appearing to show Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor crouched over an unidentified woman which has been released in the latest disclosure of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein (US Department of Justice) A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed they were assessing fresh allegations after Graham Smith, chief executive of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, said he had reported the allegations. Mr Smith said in a post on social media platform X: I have now reported Andrew to the [Thames Valley Police] for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets in relation to these specific allegations. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson. Andrews relationship with Epstein dates back to the 1990s (PA) Thames Valley Police said: We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures. It comes after the force last week said it was assessing allegations that a woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew in 2010. Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing over his links to the disgraced financier but has not directly responded to the latest allegations. This will be the latest blow for the former prince after the tranche of 3 million files revealed a photo of him leaning over the body of an unidentified woman. The images, undated with no caption, appeared to show the former duke touching the womans abdomen. Elsewhere in the document dump, screenshots and scans appear to show Andrew exchanged emails with Epstein about a beautiful Russian woman, even inviting him to Buckingham Palace in an August 2010 exchange. In response, the former prince appears to ask Epstein if it is good to be free months after his release from prison for procuring a girl under the age of 18 for prostitution. William and Kate supported the Kings decision to strip Andrew of his titles (PA) That same month, Andrew could be seen in a separate email apparently telling Epstein: Wish I was still a pet in your family. The former duke paid millions of pounds in 2022 to his main accuser, the late Virginia Giuffre a woman he claims never to have met. Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge last week and moved onto the Kings private Sandringham Estate after notice was served to surrender his lease last year. Buckingham Palace also announced he would stop using his titles and honours, including the Duke of York. His brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, said it was important to remember the victims in the first words spoken by a royal since the latest tranche of documents came out. The Duke of Edinburgh affirmed it was important to remember the victims (PA) Kensington Palace issued a statement on behalf of William and Kate, which affirmed they were concerned about new revelations from the Epstein files. I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations, a spokesperson said. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. When asked how he was coping by a CNN journalist during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Prince Edward said: Well, with the best will in the world, Im not sure this is the audience that is the least bit interested in that. They all came here to listen to education, solving the future, but no, I think its all really important, always, to remember the victims and who are the victims in all this. As Peaches, Merrill Niskers unapologetic electro-clash has seen the likes of Yoko Ono, Iggy Pop, Madonna, and Thom Yorke numbered among her fans (The Squirt Deluxe) On a rain-sodden afternoon in Soho, the Canadian musician known as Peaches finds herself stunned no small thing, given that shes made a career out of shocking others. For more than 30 years, Merrill Nisker has been titillating fans and taunting critics with electroclash hits such as F*** the Pain Away and her sex-positive, avant-garde gigs. After all, whats a Peaches show without a giant flying vagina? Still, the scene we stumble upon together is enough to give even her pause. I dont think that man is alive, Nisker whispers as we slink past an elderly gentleman on the staircase. Im going back up to check hello? She approaches him cautiously. He doesnt move a muscle. Nisker is right: that man isnt alive, rather he is a life-size, hyperrealistic sculpture. Whoa mutters Nisker under her breath, shaking her mottled mullet in astonishment. Its a look that Nisker, now 60 and living in Berlin, is very familiar with. Shell look into the crowd at her gigs and see raised eyebrows, agape mouths, and eyes blown wide by the sight of her onstage in fishnets, pubic hair on show, as she spits lyrics about gender-bending sex positivity while wearing a prosthetic penis. Ive become so comfortable pushing the envelope, it feels like thats my essence, she tells me. Now there isnt any other way. Sometimes I think, Oh, did I push it enough? She memorably pushed the envelope with her 2000 debut Teaches of Peaches, its title a play on her past life as a schoolteacher. Rooted in Eighties synth-punk sounds, the record was spectacular for its audacity. Released between 2003 and 2015, Niskers subsequent albums Fatherf***er, Impeach My Bush, I Feel Cream, and Rub expanded her sonic palette while sharpening her voice on matters of war, reproductive rights, gender constructs and queer desire. Those political concerns are louder than ever on No Lube, So Rude. Many of the tracks stay true to her earlier sound, that brash, bratty mix of electronic, dance and punk, but there is also a conscious effort to move forward. The production is a little more turned up (if you can believe it) and encompasses live sounds even a horn section. Peaches performs in her signature fuschia hot pants at Alexandra Palace in London in 2003 (Getty) Its her first album in a decade which isnt to say that she has been hibernating. Far from it, shes delivered a solo rendition of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing all eight roles herself; written and toured an electro opera; appeared in a fashion film directed by John Malkovich. She interpreted Yoko Onos signature performance artwork Cut Piece so superbly that the artist herself said it will never be performed again with such eloquence. Through it all, Nisker has remained remarkably consistent, steadfast in those same ideas she was espousing in her twenties. Its funny because at the beginning people called me a one-trick pony, but this isnt a trick, its a way of life, she says, having to raise her voice over the coffee machine cacophony of the busy London deli weve taken refuge in. Its politics and its something we need to focus on now more than ever. For someone so bold and blunt in her music, Nisker is shockingly soft-spoken in person just another way she defies expectation, I suppose. Already out is the albums lead single Not In Your Mouth None of Your Business a declaration of bodily autonomy built around an unyielding electronic pulse and Niskers signature deadpan delivery. I wish it wasnt a protest song but it is, she says. This whole conversation around who gets to define what a woman is Listen, if they say they are a woman, they are a woman. If they say they are a man, they are a man. They are whoever they say we are, and we need to respect that. A chunk of the profits from her forthcoming tour in North America will go to the Trans Funding Project. I wonder whether Nisker herself, who has upended gender norms and espoused fluidity for as long as I can remember, ever feels drawn to pronouns that arent she/her. Im not concerned with it, she shrugs. I could be called they and I would be fine with that too. But personally, and I guess its because I grew up in a different time, its not as important to me but I understand why it is for others. Marilyn Manson fans would spit on me. I wanted to cry Ten years on from her last album, she finds, I dont give as much of a f*** any more. Im just going to say the s*** that I want to say and slip in all my ideas about whats going on in the world. While shes never been one to mince words, she finds herself speaking up more about ageism, something she has encountered since the earliest days of her career. Back in 2001, NME ran a review of one of her first UK gigs with the title, Grandma, youre scaring the kids. Nisker was 33 at the time. Were only now really understanding theres life for older women, she says, pointing to the many different generations of fans she sees at her concerts. People are not what you think. Its a lot of 50 and up. They want to go out! They want to go out more than the younger ones. Gen Z just wants to stay home. And as for the NME review, she was unbothered. Shes dealt with worse. Like when she opened for Marilyn Manson on tour in 2003: His fans would spit on me. I wanted to cry, she says. On what it was like touring with Manson, who has since been accused of sexual abuse by multiple women (he denies the allegations), Nisker says she wasnt aware of any wrongdoing. I know how it sounds to say I didnt see anything, but I was too busy, she says. We were in our van and they were on their tour bus doing whatever they do. She and Manson didnt spend time together: Hed pat me on the head and say, Go get em, but I did not want to hang around them. The album art for Peachess 2026 album No Lube, So Rude (The Squirt Deluxe) Its funny to think that Niskers first proper foray into music, relatively late in her twenties, was as part of a folk trio with a whimsical name, Mermaid Cafe. That said, their cult hit song Gabey and Mike was about two boys in love so, in a way, it was very Peaches indeed. In 1995, Nisker released an album under her own name, Fancypants Hoodlum, which came and went. Then I developed my own band, she says. We all came from a bit of a disgruntled place and we just decided to throw it all away, smoke lots of weed and say a lot of sexual s***, whatever came to our minds. It really set me free creatively and it connected with people. Behind the scenes, though, Nisker had been diagnosed and treated for thyroid cancer something she only disclosed to the public much later. I wasnt interested in using any of that to get attention, she explains. What was important to me was the actual message of my music getting through on its own, so its only in retrospect that I started talking about it. She lets out a little exhale. Really, thyroid cancer is the luckiest cancer but at the time, it just shifts your head into thinking about immortality and intention. Thats what it did for me. The diagnosis prompted Nisker to break up with her husband and also to go solo and record Teaches of Peaches, which is in its own way a break-up album. Ostensibly, its a record of party songs but as Nisker reminds me now: People can party because they have a lot of pain. I love that all these huge pop stars are openly, lyrically queer sometimes it doesnt come off as authentic but its better than hiding (The Squirt Deluxe) In the year 2026, a Peaches song may not seem as scandalous as it once did not because she has dulled her edge or lengthened her hot pants (if anything, theyre even shorter) but because gradually she has bent the mainstream to her will. Nisker points to artists like Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan, who have achieved No 1 hits with songs explicitly about their queerness. I love that all these huge pop stars are openly, lyrically queer, she says. Sometimes it doesnt come off as authentic with other people but its better than hiding. Niskers infiltration into the mainstream has no doubt been helped by her participation in pop cultures biggest moments. Her songs have soundtracked Mean Girls, Lost in Translation, 30 Rock, The Handmaids Tale, The Simpsons, South Park, and Sex Education. But her greatest achievement remains the transformative magic that happens in the room of a Peaches concert. The transgender actor Elliot Page once reminisced about how seeing Nisker live changed his life as a teen: She stands tall and she is fearless. That is my definition of a hero, heroine, progressive, icon locked in, and ready to rumble. But Niskers reputation for being fearless is misplaced, she tells me. I fear. I fear for the world. I fear for our future. But I want to be of service and express that its OK to be who you need to be, even though its tough and its not easy. Theres a lot of friction in life, she says, hence the title of her new album. Theres an idea that lube is for menopausal women or whatever, but lube is actually for everybody! she says, suddenly impassioned. We should think of it as something to carry with us the same way we used to carry dental dams or condoms. You know, bring the lube! The worlds rough enough as it is. No Lube, So Rude is out on Kill Rock Stars on 20 February. Peaches is on tour from 17 April; she performs at The Great Escape festival on Friday 15 May. The King met trustees and volunteers in the Great Hall during his visit to Samlesbury Hall, Lancs - Paul Ellis The King has given his backing for Buckingham Palace to assist the police investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The monarch has authorised his officials to provide support needed to officers. A Buckingham Palace spokesman added that King Charles had expressed profound concern over the claims against his younger brother and repeated his support for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein. The King was heckled on Monday while on a royal engagement as pressure grew on the Royal family to compel Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to contribute to a police investigation. The Prince and Princess of Wales made their first public comment about the Epstein files earlier on Monday, issued through their spokesman. Thames Valley Police have confirmed they are examining allegations that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential data with Epstein when the then Prince Andrew was working as a British trade envoy. He has separately been accused of sexually assaulting Virginia Guiffre, which he denied, and with whom he settled in a civil claim, and of spending the night with an adult woman who was flown to the UK for sex with him. Buckingham Palace has not yet been contacted by the police. A palace spokesman said: The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct. While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. As was previously stated, Their Majesties thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse. King Charles visited Clitheroe, Lancashire, hours before Buckingham Palace said he was prepared to support police in investigating allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor - Paul Ellis/Pool via Reuters Any cooperation with police is likely to be coordinated by the palace as an institution rather than the King in person. The palace may retain documents relating to Mr Mountbatten-Windsors time as a trade envoy and his trips overseas on behalf of the government. By convention, a sovereign cannot be compelled to give evidence in court because justice is performed in their name. They can, however, assist police on a voluntary basis where they have relevant information. The King maintained his composure as he was accosted at Clitheroe Station on Monday, continuing to shake hands and wave at the crowd while well-wishers tried to drown the heckler out with cheers. The unidentified man shouted as he walked by: Charles, how long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Have you been protecting Andrew from prosecution? The King did not appear to hear the questions, and did not answer as he continued to make his way through the crowd. Last week, the 77-year-old was also heckled during a visit with the Queen to Dedham, near Colchester, when a member of the public asked whether police should investigate his brother over his ties to Epstein, while calling for justice for the victims. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor is facing mounting pressure to cooperate with American authorities, including testifying in Congress. Ghislaine Maxwell refused to answer any questions when she appeared before the US house oversight committee on Monday. Maxwell, a former socialite and friend of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, said she was willing to absolve Donald Trump and Bill Clinton of any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. Giuffre, Mr Mountbatten-Windsors first accuser, who died by suicide last year, claimed he had sexually abused her on three occasions when she was a teenager. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor denies the claims. A second woman has now claimed that she was sent to the UK for sex with him. Several embarrassing photographs of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have been released from the Epstein files - Reuters Police are also assessing claims that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor passed on confidential information to Epstein. Emails suggest that he passed information to the convicted paedophile about what had been discussed during his visits as UK trade envoy. A message sent by Amit Patel, then Mr Mountbatten-Windsors special assistant, in November 2010 contained reports of what had been discussed on visits to Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam and China. Thames Valley Police confirmed on Monday that it was assessing the information in line with our established procedures. Until now, the Prince of Wales has deferred to his father in dealing with the Andrew issue, with a source repeating that he supports the Kings leadership. However, he is said to have privately pushed for a firmer line in dealing with it. Before the release of the latest Epstein files, he was also understood to have been mindful of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors mental health under extreme public pressure. On Monday, a leading US Democrat urged the King and Queen to answer questions about Epstein. Ro Khanna, who helped to force the release of the Epstein files, said Mr Mountbatten-Windsors relationship with the disgraced financier could bring down the British monarchy. Mr Khanna said the Royal family was the most vulnerable it has ever been after fresh details about the former princes relationship with Epstein were laid bare in three million documents published by the US Department of Justice on Jan 30. Earlier on Monday, the Prince and Princess of Wales said they were deeply concerned by the continuing revelations of the Epstein files, which include numerous documents to, from and about Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, the Prince of Waless uncle. In a statement released on Monday, a spokesman for Kensington Palace said: I can confirm the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The Prince and Princess of Wales said they were deeply concerned by the continuing revelations - Wiktor Szymanowicz The statement was issued before Prince Williams trip to Saudi Arabia. The Prince landed in Riyadh on Monday night for a three-day tour at the request of the Government. He had been facing growing calls to speak out about the Epstein files. The Royal family is believed to have been unaware of what was contained in the documents and the details of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors continued association with Epstein. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has denied all allegations against him. In October, as public feeling built against the then Prince Andrew, Buckingham Palace issued a statement from the King that confirmed that his brother would lose his titles and honours, and would be leaving Royal Lodge in Windsor. The Kings spokesman said: These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him. Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse. Since more Epstein files have been released, the palace has pointed to that statement and privately reiterated the King and Queens support for victims. Since revelations about his friendship with Epstein started to emerge, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been stripped of his titles and moved out of Royal Lodge - Toby Melville/Reuters Last week, the Duke of Edinburgh expressed support for Epsteins victims, telling CNN: I think its really important, always, to remember the victims, and who are the victims in all this? A lot of victims in this. In 2019, the then Prince Andrew stepped back from public life in the wake of a Newsnight interview in which he defended his friendship with Epstein and was accused of failing to express empathy with his victims. Part of his narrative that he cut contact with Epstein in December 2010 has since been exposed as false, with documents showing that they remained in touch and Epstein was invited to Buckingham Palace afterwards. In October last year, Mr Mountbatten-Windsor released a statement through the Palace, saying: In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family. I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life. With His Majestys agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me. Teachers picket in front of Mission high school in San Francisco, California, on Monday. Photograph: Bronte Wittpenn/AP (Photograph: Bronte Wittpenn/AP) About 6,000 public schoolteachers in San Francisco went on strike on Monday, the first public schoolteachers strike in the city in nearly 50 years. The strike comes after teachers and the district failed to reach an agreement over higher wages, health benefits and more resources for special needs students. The San Francisco Unified School District closed all its 120 schools and said it would offer independent study to some of the districts 50,000 students. We will continue to stand together until we win the schools our students deserve and the contracts our members deserve, Cassondra Curiel, president of the United Educators of San Francisco, said at a Monday morning news conference. Teachers with the union were joining the picket line after last-ditch negotiations over the weekend failed to reach a new contract. Daniel Lurie, the citys mayor, and Nancy Pelosi,a US representative of California, had urged the two sides to keep talking rather than shut down schools. Union leaders planned to hold a news conference on Monday morning about the strike and an afternoon rally was planned at San Francisco City Hall. Negotiations were scheduled to resume at midday on Monday. Related: California faces teacher strikes across state for better pay and work conditions The union and the district have been negotiating for nearly a year, with teachers demanding fully funded family healthcare, salary raises and the filling of vacant positions impacting special education and services. The teachers also want the district to enact policies to support homeless and immigrant students and families. Teachers and the district have already reached an agreement on stronger sanctuary policies, but they remain far apart on wages. The union is asking for a 9% raise over two years. SFUSD, which faces a $100m deficit and is under state oversight because of a longstanding financial crisis, said it could not afford those hikes. The teachers say the money could come from reserve funds that could be directed back to classrooms and school sites. Officials have countered with a 6% wage increase paid over three years. On Friday, Maria Su, superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District, said the offer also includes bonuses for all employees if there is a surplus by the 2027-28 school year. A report by a neutral fact-finding panel released last week recommended a compromise of a 6% increase over two years, largely siding with the districts arguments that it is financially constrained. The union said San Francisco teachers receive some of the lowest contributions to their healthcare costs in the Bay Area, pushing many to leave. Su said the district offered two options: the district paying 75% of family health coverage at Kaiser or offering an annual allowance of $24,000 for teachers to choose their healthcare plan. Lurie, who helped broker an agreement that ended a hotel workers union strike after he was elected and before taking office, said that the city agencies were coordinating with the district on how to offer support to children and their families. I know everyone participating in these negotiations is committed to schools where students thrive and our educators feel truly supported, and I will continue working to ensure that, Lurie said in a social media post on Sunday. The last time teachers walked out, in 1979, it was more than six weeks before classes resumed, Mission Local reported. Tar River Art Gallery Announces Winter Exhibit Opening and Public Reception on February 22 ROCKY MOUNT, N.C., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Tar River Art Gallery will welcome the public to a special winter exhibit opening and reception on Sunday, February 22, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, celebrating an exciting new collection of work from more than 40 talented regional artists. The event will be held in the gallery's home at the Dunn Center on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan University. One of many unique paintings in the brand new exhibit at Tar River Art Gallery in the Dunn Center on the campus of NC Wesleyan University in Rocky Mount, NC - Exhibition runs until May 15 Unique sculptures are intermingled all through the brand new exhibit at Tar River Art Gallery in the Dunn Center on the campus of NC Wesleyan University in Rocky Mount, NC - Exhibition runs until May 15 This new exhibition brings together an impressive range of artistic expression, featuring paintings, watercolors, penandink works, collages, assemblages, ceramic sculpture, metal art, fused glass, and handcrafted jewelry. Many of the participating artists are new to the gallery's rotating showcase, offering visitors a fresh and diverse experience of creativity from across eastern North Carolina. Guests attending the February 22 reception will have the opportunity to explore the full exhibit, meet several of the artists, and enjoy light refreshments. Admission is free, and convenient parking is available directly in front of the Dunn Center as well as in the adjacent northside lot. The Tar River Art Gallery continues to build on the legacy of the former Gravely Gallery, long recognized for its commitment to local arts and named in honor of Janice Gravely. The expanded gallery space now accommodates a broader range of mediums and a growing community of creators, reflecting the cultural energy of the Tar River region. Art Curator Jan Sullivan Volz notes that the upcoming exhibit highlights both the depth and variety of the area's artistic talent. "This show brings together an extraordinary mix of styles and materials," she said. "Visitors will see everything from traditional fine art to innovative contemporary pieces in many different forms. It's a dazzling display of the imagination and skill of artists who call this region home." The gallery remains open to the public at no charge, Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Exhibits rotate throughout the year, offering returning visitors something new with each visit. The February 22 opening reception invites art lovers, families, students, and community members to enjoy an afternoon of creativity and connection as the Tar River Art Gallery unveils its latest collection. MEDIA ADVISORY What: Tar River Art Gallery Exhibit Opening & Public Reception When: Sunday, February 22, 2:004:00 PM Where: Dunn Center, NC Wesleyan University 3400 North Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC Cost: Free admission; free adjacent parking Featuring: New exhibit with works by 40+ regional artists across multiple mediums; light refreshments CONTACT: Frank Timberlake (919) 269-4300 OF or (919) 805-0055 CELL [email protected] Jan Sullivan Volz, Art Curator, Tar River Art Gallery (252) 532-2130 [email protected] SOURCE Tar River Art Gallery The Telegraph understands Mr Sarwar discussed his intervention in advance with Wes Streeting, who has been touted as a leadership challenger to Sir Keir - Euan Cherry/Getty Images Scotlands Labour leader has turned on Sir Keir Starmer, demanding that he resigns in the wake of the Lord Mandelson scandal. Anas Sarwar told a press conference that the distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. The intervention added further pressure on the Prime Minister to quit amid criticism of his judgment in appointing Lord Mandelson as US ambassador despite knowing about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Mr Sarwar made his statement hours before Sir Keir was due to give a make-or-break speech to Labour MPs and peers. The Telegraph understands Mr Sarwar discussed his intervention in advance with Wes Streeting, who has been touted as a leadership challenger to Sir Keir. However, the entire Cabinet, including Mr Streeting, rallied in support of the Prime Minister after the speech as Downing Street ordered them to fall in line. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Mr Sarwar declared: This isnt easy and its not without pain, as I have a genuine friendship with Keir Starmer. But my first priority and my first loyalty is to my country, Scotland, and I am not willing to sacrifice Scotlands NHS, our schools, our communities, our towns, cities, villages and islands to a third decade of an SNP government. Thats why the distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. We cannot allow the failures at the heart of Downing Street to mean the failures continue here in Scotland. Mr Sarwar is braced for a Scottish Labour bloodbath in the Holyrood elections, with the SNP expected to retain control after 19 years. He is on the Blairite wing of the Labour Party, and insiders believe he would like to see Sir Keir replaced by Mr Streeting. A number of Scottish Labour MPs in Westminster and Holyrood are believed to back his call for Sir Keir to go. Scottish Labour MPs will meet at Westminster on Tuesday to discuss Mr Sarwars decision to call for Sir Keir to resign. In his speech, Mr Sarwar said the achievements of Sir Keirs Government had been drowned out by too many mistakes. The situation in Downing Street is not good enough, he said. There have been too many mistakes. They promised they were going to be different, but too much has happened. Have there been good things? Of course there have. But no one knows them, no one can hear them, because theyre being drowned out. Thats why it cannot continue. There have been too many incidences where the wrong judgment calls have been made. There have been too many mistakes. And that is distracting from the wider work of Government and it is also distracting from the big choice that people in Scotland have to make in three months time. And that is why I think things have to change in Downing Street. Mr Sarwar says he has a genuine friendship with Sir Keir Starmer, but that the leadership in Downing Street has to change - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images He insisted he was not coordinating with others to remove Sir Keir from No 10, adding that it was for Cabinet members to make the final move. Mr Sarwar said: This is not a coordination. I am not speaking to others about what they do or dont do. Ultimately it is for those in No 10, those around the Cabinet table and those in the UK Labour Party, thats not a matter for me. A source in Scottish Labour said Mr Sarwars decision to intervene was taken on Monday morning, but was something he had been wrestling with for a while. It has been the cumulative response to a Government which cannot communicate its achievements because of chaos at the centre, he said. This is a problem with leadership and decision-making. Brian Leishman, the MP for Alloa and Grangemouth, backed Mr Sarwars call, saying: In calling for the Prime Minister to resign, Anas Sarwar has shown that he and Scottish Labour will act in the best interests of our country. I have said that Keir Starmers position is untenable and that it is in the countrys best interest for him to step down and for the Government to have a change in direction. That change is to govern with real Labour values. That is what people voted for in 2024, and what we should deliver. Scottish Labour MSPs are understood to support the decision. Many in the party hope Mr Sarwars move will neuter the SNPs line of attack, that Scottish Labour is merely a branch of the UK Labour Government. A senior source said: No one is calling us the branch office now. However, while the speech was a blow to the Prime Minister, he was buoyed later when every single Cabinet member including Mr Streeting and Ed Miliband, another potential challenger, declared that they had full confidence in him. Angela Rayner, the former deputy leader who, along with Mr Streeting, is considered to be a likely challenger in any leadership contest also declared the Prime Minister had her full support. Studies have found that regular sauna use could reduce the risk of heart attacks, dementia and stroke - Getty Imagine achieving the same benefits of brisk exercise just by sitting down in a nice warm place a few times a week. Saunas have been around for thousands of years with versions of them in all cultures, and according to devotees (on TikTok at least) the hot boxes not only improve but even lengthen life. In Finland, where the word sauna originates from, there is one sauna for every two people. And there does seem to be a degree of science to back up the popular pastime, with some studies linking time in the sauna with a decreased risk of heart attacks, obesity and dementia. More recent research conducted on mice and presented at the conference Nutrition 2024 found that daily 30-minute whole-body heat exposure to a warm environment like a sauna could help older adults, particularly women, to combat age-related obesity and insulin resistance. Impressive outcomes certainly, but also a serious commitment to sitting naked in a highly-heated wooden box most days for 20 years. Happily, for those of us with less time on our hands, there is considerable evidence to suggest that sauna bathing can induce profound physiological effects, the review concluded. Though it added that more research is needed to determine exactly how often, how long and what type of sauna is most beneficial. From Finnish hot box to local leisure centre, here are the benefits of sauna bathing. Reduces dementia risk These hot rooms stimulate the bodys natural temperature regulating mechanism, inducing metabolic changes at a cellular level and producing heat shock proteins. These proteins (referred to as HSPs) get involved in and enhance many different complex bodily processes, including the cardiovascular system and immunity. HSPs are associated with reduced muscle atrophy, have a role in preventing Alzheimers disease and are linked to increased longevity, says Dr Mike Hoaglin, a medical director at private online healthcare provider DrHouse. Further studies have found that men who went to the sauna at least four times per week were 66 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with dementia, and in a further study of both men and women who took saunas most days of the week it was found they were 61 per cent less likely to have a stroke. Helps prevent type 2 diabetes Another widely reported key benefit of the sauna is increased insulin sensitivity. This is simply a measure of how efficiently your body reacts to insulin and its role in glucose management, with the opposite of sensitivity being insulin resistance, which leads to type 2 diabetes. Regular thermal therapyhas the potential to improve impaired insulin sensitivity, says one NCBI report from 2008. Cardiovascular benefits One study by the University of Eastern Finland looked at the health outcomes of 2,315 men aged 42 to 60, who had a sauna most days of the week, over a roughly 20-year period. They were 50 per cent less likely to have a fatal heart attack compared to men who had one sauna a week or less. In fact, according to the NCBI report, sauna bathing might offer in medically controlled conditions the benefits of a mild cardiovascular workout for patients with existing conditions such as heart disease that make regular aerobic exercise dangerous. Regular sauna sessions can provide benefits analogous to aerobic training exercise, the report states. So, does that mean its also an alternative to exercise for fit people? A kind of non-moving aerobics? The answer is: a bit. Even one sauna session a week will give you the benefits of muscle relaxation and better sleep - Getty Saunas do give cardiovascular benefits, but they wont do anything for your muscles and maintaining good muscle tone and mass is crucially important to guard against osteoporosis and falls in later life. You will also miss out on the broad protection against dementia gained from resistance training, however. Where you do get the big exercise boost is from taking a sauna after a workout. The benefits all supported by scientific research are legion. As well as the cardiovascular and circulation action, you get better muscle recovery and growth. Increased muscle strength. Reduced inflammation. Enhanced endurance. Better flexibility. And it boosts the insulin sensitivity upside effect. Really, youd be mad not to. This oft-mentioned sauna benefit has been studied since the 1980s, with the increased production of human growth hormone (HGH) stimulated by those previously mentioned heat stress proteins. This is a good thing, because HGH aids muscle growth and preserves bone mass two things you very much want to look after as you get older, when production of HGH declines. Lower cortisol levels Another often touted benefit of sauna use is lowering troublesome stress hormone, cortisol. So helpful when running from a sabre-tooth tiger, so harmful for hours in bad traffic and linked to so many detrimental health settings, from low immune response, to increased blood sugars and weight gain, cortisol levels can be lowered by regular sauna sessions. How often, how long? Even one sauna a week will give you the benefits of muscle and mental relaxation and better sleep. If youre new to being a human baked potato, start slowly, with five-minute sessions and build up. Drink a glass of water (and shower) before you go in and stay on the lower level and not too close to the hot rocks. Never let yourself doze off inside. Also cool down slowly. You may want to work up to the full icy plunge, but its never a good idea for people with heart conditions, or pregnant women. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure or any kind of heart disease, consult your doctor before hitting the heat. Stick to one heat assault at first, but as you become more experienced you can bob in and out for several 10-minute sessions. Rest afterwards and make sure you fully rehydrate. Starmer and Sarwar at a rally in Glasgow in 2023. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian (Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian) Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, has called on Keir Starmer to stand down, throwing the prime ministers leadership of the country into serious peril. At a hastily arranged press conference in Glasgow, the senior Labour politician said: The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. Sarwar said there had been too many mistakes by No 10 since Starmer came to power and that while the prime minister was a decent man he was undermining Labours ability to win the Scottish parliament elections in May. Related: Revealed: Rayner for leader site briefly went live in January The Scottish party leader is said to be furious that the UK governments decisions have severely damaged support for Scottish Labour, with the SNPs John Swinney now appearing to be on course to stay in Bute House. Recent opinion polls show Labour trailing in third place behind the Scottish National party and Reform. Sarwar and his advisers have calculated it will be impossible for Starmer to recover after the scandal over Peter Mandelsons links to Jeffrey Epstein. His call for Starmer to go comes as a serious blow to the prime minister, who is fighting to reassert control over his party after accepting the resignation of his closest adviser, Morgan McSweeney, amid anger over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. But senior Labour sources said McSweeneys departure had left the prime minister dangerously exposed as he headed towards a series of electoral challenges including the Scottish elections that could determine his political fate. Sources close to Eluned Morgan, Labours first minister in Wales, denied on Monday she was planning to add her voice to the call for Starmer to go even though the party also faces a hammering in the Welsh elections in May. Sarwar told the press conference that his first priority was to Scotland and that he did not want to sacrifice the country to a third decade of an SNP government. Thats why the distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. It is so obvious that we desperately need change in Scotland and in three months time the opportunity to get rid of a failing SNP government is one that is too important to be missed, he said. We cannot allow the failures at the heart of Downing Street to mean the failures continue here in Scotland, because the election in May is not without consequence for the lives of Scots. He added: The people of this great country, Scotland, are crying out for competent government, for transparency, for honesty and for delivery. They want to see politics that is open and accountable. They want to see leaders who put the national interest before themselves. That is the standard I will always apply. In three months, we have an election that must be about one thing and one thing only: Scotland. That is my duty, that is my priority, that is my loyalty, and that is Scotlands choice. Sarwar revealed that he told the prime minister earlier in the day that he planned to call for his resignation and that its fair to say, we didnt agree. After a tumultuous few days, David Lammy, the deputy prime minister, was the first cabinet minister to publicly back the prime minister, after hours of silence from his senior ministerial team. Keir Starmer won a massive mandate 18 months ago, for five years to deliver on Labours manifesto that we all stood on. We should let nothing distract us from our mission to change Britain and we support the prime minister in doing that, he posted. Douglas Alexander, the Scotland secretary, who works closely with Sarwar, said: Anas has reached his own decision and I respect that. My job as Anas acknowledged today is to make sure Scotlands voice is heard in cabinet. My focus remains on doing that. There was an immediate backlash among some Scottish Labour MPs, who have privately been among the most critical of the prime minister, with one telling the Guardian: Anas does not speak for us all. Cabinet ministers including Rachel Reeves, the chancellor; Yvette Cooper, the foreign secretary; and John Healey, the defence secretary, rallied round the prime minister, although the support of some was more muted. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, who is known to have leadership ambitions of his own, told Sky News that although the atmosphere was febrile, Keir Starmer doesnt need to resign. He added: It has not been the best week for the government Give Keir a chance. Some cabinet ministers in London were shocked by Sarwars intervention. One told the Guardian: I cant for the life of me understand what hes doing. It would be madness to have a leadership contest and delegate the future of the country to the Labour membership. Downing Street said Starmer was not resigning and would be concentrating on the job in hand. His official spokesperson described his mood as upbeat and confident as he addressed No 10 staff. Sources close to the prime minister have suggested that he spent the weekend reflecting on his future. But the spokesperson said: That is not the prime minister who appeared in front of staff this morning. It is very clear that he remains determined to tackle the job in hand. Sarwars team was deeply irritated to learn last week that the prime minister had been arguing internally that he needed to remain in office to help Scottish Labour win the May election. They believe the polls show that Starmers continued leadership will destroy their electoral chances. Polling by More in Common found on Friday that Labour had fallen four points in the Holyrood constituency vote, slipping behind Reform into third place, and was also a point behind Reform on the list vote. Until the latest developments in the Epstein scandal, Sarwar had repeatedly defended Starmers record and as recently as last week had offered the prime minister his tentative support. In the months after Scottish Labours success in the 2024 general election, when it won 37 out of Scotlands 57 Westminster seats, Sarwar had been extremely confident of winning the Holyrood election. He brought in more than a 1m in donations, winning backing from wealthy Scottish business leaders, and believed Scottish voters had grown weary and disappointed with the SNP after 18 years in government. The son of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai said his father had been effectively issued a death sentence as he was sentenced to a further 20 years in prison on Monday. Sebastien Lai said the verdict was expected but still devastating and left him doubtful as to whether he would ever see his ailing father again. Mr Lai, the 78-year-old founder of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper, was found guilty of collusion and sedition in his national security trial last year, five years after his arrest under the controversial national security law. He denies the charges. His son told The Independent that his father was still strong in spirit despite all these attempts to break him, including torture, confinement and horrible conditions that hes been kept in. Even being held in solitary confinement for 10 days is insane for most people. Hes done 1,800 days of that. Its inspirational, he said, describing his father as his hero and adding: Someone who has given up so much for freedom, I think, surely deserves some of it himself. Sebastien Lai told The Independent he was incredibly proud of his father for sticking to his principles (AFP/Getty) Announcing their verdict on Monday, the three judges said Mr Lais sentence fell within the harshest penalty tier for offences of a grave nature, accusing him of being the driving force behind persistent foreign collusion conspiracies. The sentence drew uproar from the British government and other democracies around the world. Mr Lais son said: Its one of those moments where I think to myself, Am I ever going to see my father again? Hes already been there for five years. Given his health conditions, I dont even know if hes got a tenth of that. So its obviously tremendously hard. I think one of the things that gave me a bit of strength was that in court, when they announced it, Dad was stoic and he flashed a small smile because I think he knew that this was coming and he wasnt going to give them the satisfaction of showing any sad emotions. Also, he knew that he did the right thing. I think thats what is most important is that hes a man who at every turn and every opportunity did what was right. He said his message to his father, who has only been able to receive letters since late 2020, would be that I miss him a lot, that I love him a lot. But that Im incredibly proud of him. Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of foreign collusion and publishing seditious materials, charges he denies (AFP/Getty) Sebastien Lai said he believed history would remember the media tycoon as a very good man ... who was willing to give everything that he had to stand for what was right. He said: I think people always think of the death of press freedom as a bang. Unfortunately, as you see from my fathers case, it sounds more like drowning. It sounds like the air being sucked out of a room. And nobody really thinks about press freedom until theres no press freedom anymore Its a farce. He added that he did not know if there would be the ability to appeal the verdict, describing the legal system in Hong Kong as broken. Sebastien Lai said he had to remain optimistic that his father could still be released, urging the British government to make the resetting of relations with China conditional on his fathers release. He said that time is running out for my father. Many people in this country are very worried or have national security concerns in regards to China. They have done nothing to abate that. And were not going to normalise whats happening to my father. Thats just completely unacceptable. In order to have a closer relationship, my fathers release should be a precondition for that. And if theyre not even willing to do something so right, so humane, so simple, what can we possibly expect from that relationship with Hong Kong and China? Britain, the US, Australia, the European Union, Japan and Taiwan expressed concerns about the impact of the sentencing. Foreign minister Yvette Cooper said Britain would rapidly engage further on Mr Lais case. For the 78-year-old, this is tantamount to a life sentence, she said. I remain deeply concerned for Mr Lai's health, and I again call on the Hong Kong authorities to end his appalling ordeal and release him on humanitarian grounds, so that he may be returned to his family. Sebastien Lai urged Britain to make the resetting of relations conditional on the release of his father (Reuters) US secretary of state Marco Rubio said the sentencing was an unjust and tragic conclusion to the case and urged authorities to grant him humanitarian parole. Anitta Hipper, spokesperson for the European Commission, said the politically motivated persecution would harm Hong Kongs reputation. The EU calls on the Hong Kong authorities to restore confidence in press freedom in Hong Kong, one of the pillars of its historic success as an international financial centre, and to stop prosecuting journalists. The Mandalorian and Grogu and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie were among upcoming films showcased during Super Bowl LX. Major movie trailers have historically accompanied the biggest game in the NFLs calendar, but significant companies such as Marvel, Apple and Warner Bros did not provide any fresh looks during this years event. In their stead, Disney showcased a teaser for the upcoming theatrical sequel to the Disney+ series The Mandalorian. A new journey begins. Watch the big game spot and see The Mandalorian and Grogu only in theaters and IMAX May 22. pic.twitter.com/5M0MKbJFqr Star Wars (@starwars) February 8, 2026 The wildly popular show stars Pedro Pascal as bounty hunter Din Djarin who ends up caring for a force-sensitive creature named Grogu, which resembles the green-skinned Yoda from the Star Wars series. The 36-second TV spot shows Djarin and Grogu travelling across a snowy landscape, accompanied by a dramatic voiceover in the style of famous Super Bowl commercials of the past. In theatres on May 22, the film sees The Mandalorian TV series creator Jon Favreau return to direct and produce, alongside Lucasfilms chief content officer Dave Filoni and former president Kathleen Kennedy as producers. Elsewhere, Universal Studios provided a short teaser for the upcoming sequel to 2023s The Super Mario Bros Movie. The 15-second trailer shows baby Mario and Luigi waking up a dinosaur, before being forced to make a desperate escape alongside popular characters Toad and Yoshi. Dont wake the dino. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is only in theaters April 1. pic.twitter.com/34vjqImsBf The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (@supermariomovie) February 9, 2026 The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will see the return of Chris Pratt (Mario) and Charlie Day (Luigi) as the famous video-game brothers embark on a cosmic adventure. The film hits theatres in the UK on April 1. Super Bowl viewers were also given an extended look at director Stephen Spielbergs upcoming UFO film Disclosure Day. The minute-long trailer appears to give a glimpse of the world coming into contact with alien life. Starring British actors Emily Blunt and Colin Firth, Disclosure Day is in theatres on June 12. Sci-fi fans were also treated to an almost three-minute long trailer for Ryan Goslings next film, Project Hail Mary. The trailer shows Goslings astronaut character learning to communicate with a small rock-like alien. Ryan Gosling stars in Project Hail Mary (Ian West/PA) (Ian West) Coming from The Lego Movie directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, Project Hail Mary is in theatres on March 20. Netflix rounded out the biggest Super Bowl trailers with a surprise look at director David Finchers follow-up to Quentin Tarantinos 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Titled The Adventures of Cliff Booth, the trailer shows Brad Pitt revising his role as the titular character with Australian actress Elizabeth Debicki also prominently featured. The trailer ended with Coming Soon flashing on the screen, however no official release date was given. The on-field action saw the Seattle Seahawks triumph 29-13 over the New England Patriots in Santa Clara, California. A 10-year-old boy accused of stabbing a 13-year-old girl to death in Texas claims he was acting in self-defense, police say. Riley Dearmas was killed during a massive brawl in Houston involving 20 to 30 people, Houston Police Lt. Larry Crowson revealed at a press conference. Officers were called to the scene around 8 p.m. last Wednesday after reports of a stabbing outside an apartment complex in Grow Lane. [They] located a juvenile female suffering from a stab wound. Houston Fire Department paramedics transported her to an area hospital where she was pronounced deceased, the police department said in a statement. Further investigation determined there was an altercation between two groups of individuals, including the juvenile female, at the location which led to the female suffering a stab wound. Riley is yet to be formally identified as the victim by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, but her family said that she was the girl who had been killed. Riley would have turned 14 next month, and is described by her family as joyful and happy (Facebook) Her mother rejected the suggestion that Riley had been stabbed in self-defense because she was part of an attack, describing her as a gentle and loving child. She was not a violent person. She would never harm anyone intentionally, Ashley DeArmas told local CBS affiliate KHOU. The narrative thats going around right now about my daughter, that was not Riley. On Saturday evening, nearly 100 family members and close friends gathered to remember Riley by releasing a sea of balloons, many of which were purple in tribute to her favorite color. Riley, who would have turned 14 next month, was described by her mother as joyful, free-spirited, and happy. Instead of me celebrating her 14th birthday, Im celebrating and trying to bury my daughter right now. These balloons could have been for her 14th birthday, not her death, Rileys mom said. She did not deserve it. She did not deserve to die. Well-wishers attending the gathering hugged and wept as the balloons floated into the sky. Rileys aunt Megan DeArmas said: I will never get a chance to hug her, to tell her I love her, because her life was just cut so short. The boy who was detained over the killing was later released pending further investigation, with homicide investigators asking the prosecutors office how they want to proceed with charges, Lt. Crowson said at the press conference. It's a 10-year-old, Crowson told media, in remarks reported by KHOU. That is the minimum age of criminal responsibility in the state of Texas, so charges could be filed. That'll be up to the district attorney. The Harris County District Attorneys Office has said it will make a decision on charges once police have completed their investigation. Anyone with information about the killing is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. Timbers believed to be from a historic 17th-century shipwreck have washed up on a UK beach after Storm Chandra. The ship parts, discovered on Studland Beach last month, are thought to be from a section of the Swash Channel wreck, which was first discovered in the 1990s in a key shipping approach to Poole Harbour. Historical records suggest the wreck was of Dutch or German origin likely The Fame from Hoorn, a Dutch merchant ship that ran aground and sank in 1631. Marine archaeologists say that the freshly revealed pieces could make up a section of the hull previously missing from the vessel. Its really exciting to find this piece of historical ship, said Tom Cousins, who led the team of maritime archaeologists from Bournemouth University (BU) that identified the timbers. During our excavation of the Swash Channel wreck in 2013, there were pieces of the ship missing and we do believe a section of the hull has now been revealed at Studland. The timbers are believed to have come from a 17th-century shipwreck (Bournemouth University) At least 15 frames of wood, connected with wooden treenails to five outer hull planks, were revealed by the winter storms on 28 January, measuring approximately six metres long and two metres wide. The frames are eroded, but the hull planks are in excellent condition, according to the archaeologists, while an additional layer of planking that would have originally been inside the vessel appears to have been lost. The ship parts, discovered on Studland Beach last month, are thought to be from a section of the Swash Channel wreck (Bournemouth University) Archaeologists have theorised that the remains have been buried in sand since the 1630s and intermittently exposed over the years, explaining why the inner planks are missing and frames eroded, while the outer hull planks survive in such good condition. The Fame was estimated to be forty metres long, 10 metres wide and 15 metres high, capable of carrying more than 40 guns to defend itself against pirates during voyages to the Caribbean to bring back salt. The ship was reported to have dragged its anchor, grounding on a nearby, notorious sandbank where it broke its back. Records state that all 45 crew members abandoned the ship safely, but local residents quickly set to work looting the wreck. The timbers are believed to belong to 'the Fame of Hoorn' (Bournemouth University) Tracey Churcher, general manager for the National Trust in Purbeck, which owns the beach, said: Im always astounded by the history we find at Studland, but this has been a real treasure. The wooden tree nails are still in place and holding after four hundred years what a testament to the craftmanship at the time. Hefin Meara, a maritime archaeologist from Historic England, said: The Swash Channel wreck is one of only 57 shipwrecks around the coast of England designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. Firmly dated remains of vessels predating 1700 are exceptionally rare. We can't say for certain that these fragments come from that wreck site, but it's an intriguing possibility. The Fame is believed to have been of high status due to rare decorative wooden carvings found during excavations, including an intricately carved head of a man, thought to potentially be a Roman or Dutch soldier of the time. Intricate carvings were found in the shipwreck (Bournemouth University) The origin of the timbers is set to be confirmed from dendrochronology testing, which will identify when and where the timbers used to build the ship were grown and whether they match those previously analysed from the Swash Channel wreck. Protected wrecks have legal protection because of their archaeological and historical significance, meaning that any disturbance or interference is only permitted under an official licence. If excavated, the timbers will join the collection currently displayed at Poole Museum. Visitors have been asked to help protect the site by not touching or damaging the exposed timbers. Health authorities have issued a warning over travel to Cape Verde after cases of Shigella and Salmonella were linked to the winter sun destination. Several Britons are known to have died after contracting stomach bugs while on holiday in the island country, which is popular with British holidaymakers. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said last week that its investigation had identified more than 150 people from the UK who had fallen ill with bugs that can cause severe diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. Led by UKHSA, together with other public health agencies, investigators found that, of the 118 Shigella cases reported since 1 October and linked to international travel, some 112 (95 per cent) of those people had been to Cape Verde, the majority to the Santa Maria and Boa Vista areas. The UKHSA also identified increases in cases of Salmonella in people who travelled to the holiday destination. Since 1 October, 43 cases of Salmonella from three separate clusters identified using whole genome sequencing techniques have been linked to travel to Cape Verde, it said. Six Britons have died after holidays to Cape Verde since January 2023 (Alamy/PA) Irwin Mitchell solicitors are representing the families of the six people who have died, and more than 1,500 people who have fallen ill, after visits to Cape Verde. It said four British people died within four months after being struck down with stomach bugs while on holiday there. Dr Gauri Godbole, deputy director for gastrointestinal infections and food safety at the UKHSA, said: February is a popular time for winter sun holidays and we want to help families make the most of their breaks by staying healthy. Taking a few simple precautions against travellers diarrhoea and food poisoning can make all the difference. The best way to avoid gastrointestinal infections, including shigella and salmonella, or passing them to others, is simply by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol gel particularly after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before eating or preparing food. Most episodes of travellers diarrhoea are short-lived, lasting for a few days. During an episode of diarrhoea and vomiting, it is important to prevent dehydration, particularly for young children, pregnant women, elderly people, and those with pre-existing illnesses as they can develop complications. Continue to hydrate yourself with plenty of fluids and consider purchasing sachets of oral rehydration salt before travelling. If symptoms worsen or you have underlying medical conditions, please seek advice from your GP or pharmacy. A new UKHSA study found local swimming pools, local water and poor sanitary conditions, as well as possible infection from hotel buffets and excursions, can increase the risk of infections like salmonella, shigella, giardia and cryptosporidium. Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham, Mark Ashley, 55, of Bedfordshire, 64-year-old Karen Pooley, from Gloucestershire, and a 56-year-old man, all died last year after contracting severe gastric illnesses while on the islands off the coast of west Africa. These cases are being handled by Irwin Mitchell. Elena Walsh with her husband and son (Family handout/Irwin Mitchell) Mr Ashleys wife Emma, 55, said her family are in complete shock over his death. We went to Cape Verde expecting a relaxing break, but Mark became violently ill and never recovered, she said. Three days into their holiday in October, Mr Ashley, a self-employed forklift truck driver, fell ill with symptoms including stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and extreme lethargy, Irwin Mitchell said. Mrs Ashley, an early years assistant manager, said they booked their more than 3,000 trip with Tui, and she reported her husbands illness on its app on 9 October. She said she and her husband, who had been married for 26 years, stayed at the fivestar Riu Palace Santa Maria resort in Sal. Mark Ashley and his family (Family handout/Irwin Mitchell) Mrs Ashley has raised concerns over the hygiene standards at the hotel. After collapsing at home in Houghton Regis, Mr Ashley, who had diabetes which was controlled through medication, was taken to hospital on 12 November but was pronounced dead minutes later. Part-time nurse and mother-of-one Ms Walsh died in August 2025 after falling ill while staying at the Riu Cabo Verde resort on the same island. Ms Pooley, from Lydney, travelled with a friend to the Riu Funana resort in Sal on 7 October, 2025 for a fortnights holiday costing 3,000 and booked through Tui, the law firm said. The retired mother-of-two became sick on 11 October with gastric symptoms including diarrhoea, and in the early hours of the next day she slipped on water leaking from a fridge while going to the bathroom. She was transferred to a local clinic and over the next four days Ms Pooley continued to experience diarrhoea and vomiting, alongside severe pain from her fractured femur. Karen Pooley and her husband Andy (Family handout/Irwin Mitchell) The 64-year-old was airlifted to Tenerife for urgent care on 16 October and died in the early hours of the next day, lawyers said. Her husband Andy, 62, said: Were utterly heartbroken. Karen was the kindest, loveliest person. She was a devoted wife and mum who loved swimming, walking the dog in the Forest of Dean, and volunteered at a local charity shop. She was also a wonderful friend who lit up every room she entered. Were devastated and struggling to understand how she went on holiday and never came home. Irwin Mitchell said Ms Pooleys initial death certificate, issued by the Cape Verde authorities, said she died of multi-organ failure, sepsis, cardiorespiratory arrest and a broken left leg. The other two Britons who have died since 2023 are Jane Pressley, 62, of Gainsborough, who died in January 2023 after falling ill while holidaying at Riu Palace Hotel in Santa Maria, Sal, the previous November, and a man in his 60s from Watford. He died in November 2024 after suffering gastric illness following a trip to Cape Verde, Irwin Mitchell said. Symptoms of Shigella NHS Inform Symptoms of Shigella include: watery diarrhoea sometimes containing blood, mucus or pus in severe cases feeling sick or being sick abdominal pain high temperature (fever) over 38C (100.4F) feeling down or depressed Families of all six people are making personal injury claims for damages against Tui, the provider of many package holidays to the island country. Jatinder Paul, serious injury lawyer at the firm, said: In my experience, Im used to supporting holidaymakers who have fallen ill at resorts across the globe, but Ive never seen repeated and continued illness outbreaks at the same resorts on such a scale over such a period of time. The UKHSA has updated its travel advice on the Travel Health Pro website for Cape Verde. It urges people to choose food that is freshly prepared, fully cooked and served piping hot. In areas without a reliable clean water supply, drink only bottled or boiled water, including when brushing your teeth, and avoid ice in drinks, it added. People are advised to only eat fruit they peel themselves and avoid salads that may not have been washed in safe water. Shigella is a gastrointestinal bug that can cause severe diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. It can be caught from contaminated food, water or surfaces. Salmonella is often caused by eating or handling contaminated food. Tom Homan speaks at a press conference at the Bishop Henry Whipple federal building on 4 February 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photograph: John Moore/Getty Images (Photograph: John Moore/Getty Images) Tom Homan the Trump administrations border czar sent to Minnesota in January after federal agents fatally shot two US citizen protesters warned last year that the governments aggressive, widespread approach to immigration enforcement would cost it public support. Homan made the observation in an interview with NBC in June for the forthcoming book Undue Process, by the networks homeland security correspondent, analyzing the immigration policy of mass deportation that Donald Trump has pursued during his second presidency. Related: Hundreds protested against this Venezuelans detention by ICE. Now hes free after seven months I think the vast majority of the American people think criminal illegal aliens need to leave, Homan told author Julia Ainsley, reported by NBC News on Monday. And if we stick to that prioritization, I think we keep the faith of the American people. And I think the more we do that, the more the American people will support what President Trumps doing. We got to do it and weve got to do it in a humane manner. Instead, the homeland security department (DHS) has rounded up hundreds of thousands of people, including US citizens, in an aggressive and often violent manner, prompting protests in numerous cities and punctuated by the shooting deaths in Minneapolis in January of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by immigration officers. And figures released on Monday, reported by CBS, reveal that less than 14% of almost 400,000 immigrants arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the first year of Trumps second presidency had charges or convictions for violent criminal offenses discrediting the administrations often repeated insistence it was targeting only the worst of the worst. Homan was sent to Minneapolis after the removal of Gregory Bovino, the senior border patrol officer who was the public face of the governments violent immigration crackdown there and in other cities, including Los Angeles and Chicago. But tensions remain, despite Homans recent announcement that 700 of about 2,700 federal officers would leave the city, and Trumps professed desire for a softer touch in immigration enforcement. Anecdotally at least, there has been little to no let-up in the pace or scope of immigration actions nationwide. Homan spoke to Ainsley last year just as the government was ramping up its immigration enforcement actions, which escalated further when Trump mobilized national guard troops, then sent US marines to Los Angeles. In the interview for Ainsleys book, which will be published in May, Homan said immigrants who have committed additional crimes should be prioritized for arrest and deportation, and that a failure to stick to that policy could cause the Trump administration to lose the support of the public. Related: Whistle becomes key tool in protests against Trumps ICE crackdown Talking about the arrests of people who entered the US seeking asylum, he said: I think the more stories like that, people are going to question what were doing more. But he also said that collateral arrests of undocumented people during targeted immigrations were fair, even if those persons had not committed crimes. When I say prioritize public safety threats, theyre just a priority, he said. Ive said it many times, if youre in the country illegally, youre not off the table. If we find you while were out there looking, youre going to be arrested. If we send a message to the world that, Well, if you enter the country illegally, thats a crime but dont worry about it just dont commit another crime and were not looking for you, we cant send that message. Hakeem Jeffries, with Chuck Schumer standing to the left, speaks at a press conference on 4 February. Photograph: Michael Brochstein/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock (Photograph: Michael Brochstein/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock) Democrats will stop Donald Trump from trying to steal this years midterm elections, Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic leader in the US House of Representatives said on Sunday. Jeffries comments come amid widespread concern after Trump said Republicans should take over the voting. The US constitution gives states the power to set election rules and says Congress can pass laws to set requirements for federal elections. The constitution gives the president no authority over how elections are run. What Donald Trump wants to do is try and nationalize the election translation: steal it. And were not going to let it happen, Jeffries said during an appearance on CNNs State of the Union. He added that Democrats so far had successfully blocked Trumps efforts to federalize the national guard countered a nationwide push by Republicans to redraw congressional district boundaries to their advantage. This is going to be a free and fair election, Jeffries said. It is going to be conducted like every other election where states and localities have the ability to administer the laws. Top House Democrat says presidents suggestion for Republicans to take over elections really means steal it The Trump administration for months has been sowing doubt about the integrity of this years midterm elections by filing lawsuits against states suggesting they are improperly maintaining their voter rolls. The FBI also undertook an unprecedented raid of the election office in Fulton county, Georgia, last month, seizing ballots and other voter information related to the 2020 election. Allegations of fraud have been debunked repeatedly in Fulton county, yet Trump has continued to repeat false claims about the county. Later in his interview on CNN, Jeffries condemned Trumps refusal to apologize for a racist post on his Truth Social account depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. The White House deleted the post on Friday amid widespread outcry and said a staffer was responsible for posting it. Read the full story Trump calls Hunter Hess a real loser for skiers ambivalence about representing US Donald Trump responded to Hunter Hess on Truth Social on Sunday, calling the Olympian a real loser and criticizing comments the US freestyle skier made in a press conference days earlier. Read the full story From New York to New Mexico: new Epstein files shed light on his sprawling ranch outside Santa Fe For years, Jeffrey Epstein took respite at a sprawling ranch in the desert scrub outside Santa Fe, New Mexico. Epsteins nearly 10,000-acre (4,000-hectare) property known as Zorro ranch was dotted with cholla cactus and Angus cattle, and came to include a 26,700 sq ft mansion, as well as a private runway and hangar. For years, Epstein abused teenage girls and young women on this ranch with impunity, according to testimony from several women. In court proceedings, survivors detailed horror after horror they say unfolded on this isolated expanse of land. Read the full story What else happened today: Catching up? Heres what happened Saturday 7 February. NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Daniel Gomez, MD, MBA, has been named Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Dr. Gomez is joining NYU Langone from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he was an attending physician, Director of Thoracic Radiation Oncology, and Vice Chair of Clinical Operations in the Department of Radiation Oncology. Daniel R. Gomez, MD, MBA As the Chair of Radiation Oncology, Dr. Gomez will lead multidisciplinary teams of investigators and physicians to deliver world-class research and innovative care to patients being treated across the spectrum of cancer, both with respect to novel indications for radiation therapy and in personalizing the radiation approach based on clinical, imaging, and molecular characteristics. "Dr. Gomez is an exceptional physician and researcher who is passionate about bringing research insights into his care of patients," said Oren Cahlon, MD, executive vice president and vice dean for clinical affairs and strategy, chief clinical officer at NYU Langone. "His proven leadership skills and experience in the field of radiation therapy makes him a key part of our commitment to offering the best outcomes for our patients." Dr. Gomez has specialized experience in using radiation therapy for the treatment of oligometastatic cancers, which is an intermediate subclass of stage IV cancer where the disease has spread to or progressed in more limited sites. This disease state represents a "middle ground" between localized and widespread metastatic disease, and management is complex and involves collaboration between radiation oncology and multiple other disciplines. Dr. Gomez has both extensive clinical experience in this area and has led many clinical trials and translational analyses. "I am very honored to join NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center," said Dr. Gomez. "There is an incredible amount of energy and enthusiasm throughout the medical center, which is inspiring in the mission to improve cancer care for our patients. In addition, the Department of Radiation Oncology at NYU consists of compassionate and talented physicians and researchers dedicated to delivering treatment that is of the highest quality, innovative, and individualized to each patient. I am thrilled to join this team." About Dr. Gomez Dr. Gomez is a radiation oncologist whose academic path spans economics, medicine and business. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of California, San Francisco, followed by a radiation oncology residency at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He completed a Doris Duke research fellowship Columbia University, later earned an MBA from Rice University, and underwent additional training specifically pertaining to the use of AI in health care. Professionally, Gomez has worked at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, rising to associate professor and holding leadership posts in radiation including Thoracic Radiation Oncology Section Chief and Clinical Medical Director. He subsequently joined Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he served as Manhattan Service Chief, Director of Thoracic Radiation Oncology, Vice Chair of Clinical Operations in the department. He also served as an officer of the hospital medical staff, among other institutional leadership roles. Gomez's research centers on lung cancer and the role of radiation therapy in oligometastatic disease, with a portfolio spanning biomarker-integrated local ablative strategies, minimal residual disease, and consolidation approaches with targeted and immunotherapies. He has led or co-led many investigator initiated studies, industry- and cooperative groupfunded trials, trials involving ctDNA-defined residual disease, the evaluation of radiation with immunotherapy combinations, and was co-PI of NRG-LU002, the largest randomized trial to date evaluating local consolidative therapy in oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer. His bibliography includes extensive peer-reviewed publications and invited lectures worldwide, alongside service on editorial boards, national guideline committees and the American Board of Radiology oral boards, underscoring his impact on clinical practice standards and trial design in thoracic oncology. Media Inquiries Ryan Dziuba (212)-404-4131 [email protected] SOURCE NYU Langone Health System Mona Juul, as Norways ambassador to the United Nations in 2022. She is being investigated on suspicion of gross corruption while working at the foreign affairs ministry. Photograph: John Minchillo/AP (Photograph: John Minchillo/AP) Two high-profile diplomats are under investigation by Norwegian authorities in connection with their relationship to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Norways financial crimes squad, kokrim, is investigating Mona Juul, who resigned as ambassador to Jordan and Iraq on Sunday, on suspicion of gross corruption while working at the ministry of foreign affairs, it said on Monday. It is investigating her husband, Terje Rd-Larsen, a former diplomat and former president of the International Peace Institute (IPI), on suspicion of complicity in gross corruption. Pal Lnseth, head of kokrim, said: We have opened an investigation to clarify whether criminal acts have occurred. We are facing a comprehensive and, by all accounts, long-term investigation. Among other things, Okokrim will investigate whether [Juul] received benefits in connection to her position, Lnseth added in a statement. Lawyers for both Juul and Rd-Larsen have said their clients are cooperating with investigators and are confident the allegations will be found to be without merit. The couple, who were part of a small group of diplomats facilitating the 1993-1995 Oslo accords, are the latest heavyweight Norwegians to make the headlines over the Epstein files. The revelations have sent shockwaves through the Nordic nation, chiefly because of the US financiers relationship with Crown Princess Mette-Marit, but also because of his ties to other notable figures. korkrim, the national authority for investigation and prosecution of economic and environmental crime. has already opened an investigation into Thorbjrn Jagland, a former Labour prime minister of Norway, former chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee and former secretary general of the Council of Europe. Related: Can Mette-Marit be queen after this?: Rape trial and Epstein files bring double crisis for Norways royals Appearance in the files does not in itself imply wrongdoing or illegal behaviour. Mette-Marit has expressed deep regret over her relationship with Epstein, who killed himself in jail in 2019 as he awaited trial for sex crimes against minors, acknowledging poor judgment. Released by the US Department of Justice, the files appear to show that Juul and Rd-Larsens two children were bequeathed $10m by Epstein and that Rd Larsen was appointed executer of Epsteins will in 2017 (this was later revoked). It appears from the files that they visited Epsteins private island with their children in 2011, with Rd-Larsen later thanking the American for the trip and describing the island as totally unique. We all loved it! Rd-Larsen wrote in an email, before adding: Mona sends a kiss. Announcing Juuls resignation, Norways foreign minister, Espen Barth Eide, said her contact with Epstein had revealed a serious lapse in judgment, adding: The situation makes it difficult to restore the trust that the role requires. Juuls lawyer, Thomas Skjelbred, said a serious charge had been brought against his client. He added: At the same time, she views it positively that the allegations will now be subject to a thorough investigation, allowing the actual circumstances to be clarified. My client does not recognise the accusations made against her. Juul, he said, a former ambassador to Britain and Israel, will attend questioning with kokrim this week and that she will cooperate with the ministry of foreign affairs inquiries. Rd-Larsens lawyer, John Christian Elden, said it had noted the charge against him for alleged complicity in corruption between 2011 and 2018 centred on an apartment transfer in 2018 and a possible trip in 2011. Elden added: He remains fully available to the investigators and is cooperating to the fullest extent practically possible at this stage. Rd-Larsen is confident that once all the factual circumstances have been thoroughly reviewed, the investigation will clarify that there is no basis for criminal liability, and the case will be dismissed. Rd-Larsen has apologised several times for the relationship he had with Epstein and in 2020 stepped down as chief executive of IPI, a thinktank. Britain's intelligence chiefs have delivered urgent, closed-door briefings to both university leaders and politicians, warning of significant foreign interference threats from countries including China and Russia. Sir Ken McCallum, MI5 director general, and Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, met with vice-chancellors from over 70 universities. They detailed methods employed by hostile actors to influence academic research and teaching content, specifically citing Chinese agents' use of professional networking sites such as LinkedIn and financial inducements to recruit academic staff and students. In a separate, first-of-its-kind security briefing, the intelligence heads also informed officials from all UK political parties about adversaries' attempts to manipulate the nation's political processes. Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre (Getty Images) It comes after MI5 warned MPs, peers and parliamentary staff over Chinese espionage through recruitment head-hunters in November, and the Government launched a review in December of foreign financial interference after the jailing of Reform UKs ex-Wales leader for taking Russian bribes as an MEP. The briefing for university leaders was announced in November as part of a plan to counter political interference and espionage. A package of measures to tackle state interference in higher education, backed by a 3 million investment, includes a secure portal for university leaders to report suspicious approaches directly to the security services. The Department for Education will consult the sector on a new proactive advisory service, and new guidance is being published on Monday to help students and staff recognise the threat. Skills minister Baroness Jacqui Smith said: Our universities world-class reputation makes them a prime target for foreign states and hostile actors, who seek to erode that reputation by shaping or censoring research and teaching. We do not take this lightly. We are working together across government and with universities themselves to defend the UKs thriving academic environment. By working together and sharing information, we are standing united against political pressure from foreign state actors. Security minister Dan Jarvis said: We have to be clear-eyed that our world-class universities and democratic processes are being targeted by states who want to undermine our way of life. Thats why were launching a new tool to help universities get support from security experts, as well as making sure people at the heart of our democracy know how to report foreign interference. Tim Bradshaw, chief executive of the Russell Group of universities, said: The new single point of contact for advice on foreign interference will empower institutions to report and take action more swiftly and confidently, knowing there is support in place. In November, lawyers claimed a UK university had halted an academics research into forced labour in China after facing pressure from Chinese authorities. Leigh Day Solicitors said internal documents from Sheffield Hallam University obtained by freedom of information and subject access requests suggested the university had banned Professor Laura Murphy, a leading professor of human rights, from continuing her research on forced labour. The university later apologised to Prof Murphy and committed to supporting her research. The Prince and Princess of Wales have spoken out publicly for the first time regarding the ongoing revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein files involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. William and Kate say they are deeply concerned by the scandal, which has engulfed the monarchy and Westminster, and their thoughts are with the victims. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The ongoing Epstein scandal was reignited when a huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein was released by US authorities a week ago. The documents sparked allegations made against Williams uncle, Andrew, and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UKs trade envoy. William and Kate say they are deeply concerned by the latest revelations (PA) The former duke, who was stripped of his titles by the King last year, has always denied any wrongdoing. Buckingham Palace had said Andrew would leave Royal Lodge in early 2026, but the former prince is now living on King Charless privately owned Sandringham Estate. Andrew previously questioned the authenticity of a picture of him with his arm around Virginia Giuffre and said he had never met her. But she claimed she was made to have sex with him as a teenager. However, in an email apparently written by Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell in 2015, she said: In 2001, I was in London when [redacted] met a number of friends of mine, including Prince Andrew. A photograph was taken as I imagine she wanted to show it to friends and family." The Duke of Edinburgh was the first royal to publicly speak out since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to remember the victims when asked how he was coping since the US Department of Justices document dump. Andrew pictured in Windsor the day after the release of more Epstein files (Reuters) King Charles and Queen Camilla were heckled last week over his brothers association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during a royal walkabout through the Essex village of Dedham. The heckler, who was standing in the crowds behind the metal barriers, shouted: Charles, Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew? The statement from William and Kate comes as the Prince of Wales is travelling to Saudi Arabia for the start of a three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with Saudi ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Yujun Ren, 32, is accused of stalking and fatally shooting his girlfriend Yuan Yuan Lu a day after she told police he had sexually assaulted her (Bucks County District Attorneys Office) A Philadelphia man is behind bars after he allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend just one day after she told police he had sexually assaulted her, authorities said. Yujun Ren, 32, of Philadelphia, has been charged with criminal homicide, possession of an instrument of crime, and stalking in the killing of Yuan Yuan Lu, according to the Bucks County District Attorneys Office. Prosecutors say Ren tracked Lu down in Levittown early Sunday morning and shot her while she sat in her car. Ren then turned himself in to Middletown Township police that afternoon and claimed the shooting was accidental. In his interview with investigators, Ren said he accidentally killed his girlfriend when he pulled his gun from his waistband to scare her with it after she had allegedly said some hurtful things and took their cats and dogs, according to the arrest affidavit obtained by FOX29. But just a day earlier, Lu went to the Philadelphia Police Department where she filed a police report claiming that Ren sexually assaulted her at his home on South Orianna Street in Pennsport, according to court documents. She told officers she planned to end the relationship and was packing her belongings while Ren was at work. Yujun Ren, 32, is accused of stalking and fatally shooting his girlfriend Yuan Yuan Lu a day after she told police he had sexually assaulted her (Credit: Bucks County District Attorneys Office) On Sunday, Bristol Township police found Lus body in the drivers seat of a white Hyundai. She had been shot in the head. Officers recovered a spent shell casing from a small-caliber handgun and said there was damage to the drivers side window from gunfire. It was later revealed that Lu had also told police she was afraid of Ren and said he had a firearm he carried everywhere, the affidavit states. Investigators later determined Ren legally owned a Mossberg MC20 9mm pistol. The same day he turned himself in, a woman who identified herself as Rens aunt turned that firearm over to Middletown Township police, authorities said. Ren was arraigned Sunday night and denied bail. He is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday for a preliminary hearing. Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan said the case highlights the deadly risks of domestic violence. Todays tragic event is a sobering reminder of the lethal nature of domestic violence, Khan said in a statement. Thanks to the swift, coordinated response from the Bristol Township Police Department, the Middletown Township Police Department, and our Bucks County Detectives, we have successfully taken the defendant into custody and the community is safe. Sir Keir Starmer was probably hoping today would be another chance to reset his premiership, following the departure this weekend of Morgan McSweeney, his chief of staff, who stood down over his role in appointing Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. Instead, on Monday morning the Prime Minister was hit first by the departure of Tim Allan, his director of communications, and then by Anas Sarwar, the leader of Labour in Scotland, becoming the most senior figure from his party to urge him to resign. In todays edition of The Daily T, Camilla Tominey and Tim Stanley speak to Lee Cain, former director of communications to Boris Johnson, to find out what it is like to be in Downing Street as a government comes to an end. Plus, with Thames Valley Police assessing claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor forwarded sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein while he was trade envoy, Camilla and Tim ask if it is time the King apologised for his brother. Watch episodes of The Daily T here. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Bangor debating society banned Reform MP Sarah Pochin and claimed that it was keeping hate out of our universities - Asadour Guzelian A university debating society has banned a Reform UK MP from speaking to students. Bangor Universitys debating and political society refused to host an event with Sarah Pochin, MP for Runcorn and Helsby, claiming that it was keeping hate out of our universities. The university insisted it was politically neutral and supports freedom of speech and said it had no role in the societys decision. Universities are required to promote the importance of free speech by the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act. Ms Pochin had planned to visit the university with Jack Anderton, a party adviser who is touring universities to speak to students. But the society declined to welcome them to the Welsh university because of claimed racism, transphobia, or homophobia displayed by the members of Reform UK. Bangor University insisted that it supports freedom of speech and said it had no role in the student societys decision - Alamy A spokesman said: The Debating & Political Society received a request from Jack Anderton and Sarah Pochin MP of Reform UK to attend Bangor University and give a Q&A to students. In line with our values, this request was refused. We stand by this decision as a committee. We have zero tolerance for any form of racism, transphobia, or homophobia displayed by the members of Reform UK. Their approach to the lives of others is antithetical to the values of welcoming and fair debate that our society has upheld for 177 years. We are proud to be the first of the debating unions to take a stand against Reform UK. We strongly implore our fellow societies to join us in keeping hate out of our universities. Ms Pochin said: So much for free speech in our universities. How can Bangor Universitys debating society be afraid of debate? Prof James Orr, a senior adviser to Nigel Farage, added: The decision by a debating and politics society at Bangor University to ban a Member of Parliament from speaking on its premises is a disgrace. In a crowded field, its the worst breach of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 I have ever come across. Mr Anderton said the society was not interested in debating. Sarah Pochin and I asked them to host an event as part of my A New Dawn Tour, he said. They said we were not welcome. Were looking at other ways to bring this to Bangor students, with or without them. The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act was passed by the Conservatives in 2023, implemented by Labour last year and requires universities to promote free speech on campuses. Last year, Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, said the Act would impose a duty on universities to secure and promote freedom of speech. In 2023, James Sunderland, then Conservative MP for Bracknell, had an invitation to speak at Reading University withdrawn because his views on immigration were in conflict with the ethos of the students society. The decision was later reversed. A spokesman for Bangor University said it had no part in the decision to ban Ms Pochin and Mr Anderton. The social media post was issued by a student society and not by Bangor University, a spokesman said. Student societies are created and run by students through the independent Students Union. The views expressed by societies are their own and do not reflect University policy. Bangor University remains politically neutral and supports freedom of speech. Bangor University welcomes debate from across the political spectrum. Residents look at a flooded street in the village of Ubrique, in Cadiz, south-west Spain, after parts of the Iberian peninsula were hit by storms. Photograph: Roman Rios/EPA (Photograph: Roman Rios/EPA) Spain and Portugal have endured another storm over the weekend, just days after the deadly flooding and major damage caused by Storm Kristin and Storm Leonardo last week. Storm Marta passed over the Iberian peninsula on Saturday, bringing fresh torrential rain and killing two people. Storm Kristin killed at least five people after it made landfall on 28 January with Storm Leonardo claiming another victim last Wednesday. The outlook for this week is for more rain across Spain, Portugal and France, especially across north-west Portugal, where more than 100mm is possible during the first half of the week. Some of the heaviest of the rain will transfer to southern Italy and western parts of Greece and Turkey later in the week. High rainfall totals are also expected across parts of South Africa and Lesotho this week. By Saturday, provinces including the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape in South Africa could record fairly widespread rainfall totals of 80-100mm as a result of heavy showers or thunderstorms, with daily rainfall totals perhaps reaching 50mm where storms are particularly intense. Already, the South African Weather Service has issued warnings and advisories for severe thunderstorms through the first half of this week with a risk of excessive lightning, gusty winds, and hail. As a result, flooding, mudslides, and infrastructure damage is expected, potentially affecting more than 10 million people. Japan and Korea continued to be gripped by cold weather last week as temperatures remained below average, reaching a peak over the weekend. Temperatures in Tokyo fell to almost 10C below average on Sunday as temperatures struggled to rise above zero, with snow falling too. Tokyo sits on a similar latitude to the most northern parts of Africa and Athens, but despite this, snow is not unheard of, occurring on average about once or twice a year. This is due to Japan being positioned between a cold northerly flow from continental eastern Asia, as well as a supply of moisture from both the Sea of Japan to the north and the Philippine Sea to the south. Western areas of Japan tend to see the most significant snowfall, as was the case this time with the Hokuriku region seeing more than 50cm in 24 hours. Temperatures are expected to quickly rise through later this week, reaching the mid to high teens in Tokyo by the weekend. A child shot a child by accident in Ohio, say police. Sebastian Wasiak/Getty Images NEED TO KNOW A 10-year-old child was shot in Ohio on Feb. 8, according to the Toledo Police Department Police said in a statement that a preliminary investigation suggested that the child was accidentally shot by another 10-year-old who had found a gun The victim is currently in stable condition at a local hospital and police are investigating the incident A 10-year-old child is recovering at an Ohio hospital after being shot on Sunday morning. Officers were called to a home on Willamont Road in Toledo at 11:13 a.m. on Feb. 8, according to a statement from the Toledo Police Department. There, they found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound along with the individual they claim pulled the trigger, who is also 10-years-old. That juvenile "located a firearm inside the residence, believed it to be unloaded, and unintentionally discharged it," police said. It was also noted in the statement that a preliminary investigation into the matter indicated that the shooting was accidental. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Police said the families of both children were notified about the incident and the weapon that injured the victim was secured at the scene. The victim is currently in stable condition at a local hospital and police are still investigating the matter. Police did not provide the names of the children because they are minors. There was no additional information available as of Monday, Feb. 9, but police noted that "additional information will be released as appropriate," per the statement. Read the original article on People Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor appeared to have knowingly passed confidential information to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as Britain's trade envoy, according to newly released court documents from the United States. Material from the latest batch of Epstein files suggests the former Duke of York forwarded official reports about visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam to the disgraced financier in 2010 and 2011. The correspondence also appeared to contain sensitive details regarding investment opportunities. These exchanges occurred after Epstein had already been convicted and imprisoned in 2008 for soliciting sex with a minor. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein | Source: GETTY Under official guidance, trade envoys are bound by strict confidentiality requirements concerning sensitive commercial and political information gathered during their official duties. The documents reveal that on November 30, 2010, Andrew received four official trip reports from his special adviser Amit Patel covering his recent visits to Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Within just five minutes of receiving these assessments, the former prince appeared to forward them directly to Epstein without adding any commentary. At the time, Andrew was staying at the multimillionaire's New York mansion during a long weekend. Jeffrey Epstein | Source: GETTY Further correspondence suggests that on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew sent Epstein a briefing concerning investment opportunities in Afghanistan's Helmand Province reconstruction project, which was being overseen by British armed forces and funded by UK Government money. Sir Vince Cable, who served as business secretary at the time, told the BBC he was unaware of Andrew sharing such information, saying: "This is the first I've heard of it." Andrew, who held the trade envoy position from 2001 until 2011, has consistently and strongly denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. Being named in the Epstein files is not an indication of misconduct. Official guidelines make clear that while trade envoys are not civil servants, their role carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial and political information received during their work, with this obligation continuing after their term ends. Prince Andrew | Source: GETTY Legal experts note that the Official Secrets Acts of 1911 and 1989 can apply to individuals entrusted with sensitive Government information. It is not known whether Andrew was authorised to share the material, and it has not been confirmed whether the details in the report would be considered market-sensitive or confidential. The revelations draw comparisons with former Business Secretary Lord Mandelson, who allegedly provided Epstein with advance notice of a 500billion (435billion) EU bailout in 2010. On May 9, 2010, hours before the official announcement, Epstein allegedly emailed Mandelson stating: "sources tell me 500 b euro bailout, almost compelte [sic]". Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein | Source: GETTY Mandelson replied with the following: "Sd [Should] be announced tonight." He later added that he was "Just leaving No10..will call" at approximately 10.14pm. On Friday, police searched two of Mandelson's properties in London and Wiltshire. The Metropolitan Police has not commented on whether it has received any reports concerning Andrew's communications with Epstein. GB News has contacted Andrew's representatives for comment. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter Thailands Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters on election night in Bangkok on Feb. 8, 2026. Credit - Dario PignatelliBloomberg/Getty Images When TIME sat down with Anutin Charnvirakul late last month, Thailands Prime Minister was feeling the strain of the campaign trail. The 59-year-old grumbled that gladhanding throngs of supporters in dusty villages had left him prey to bugs and viruses. I meet so many people and sometimes maybe they have caught a cold, Anutin said from Bangkoks neo-Gothic Government House. I hear them coughing and try to hold my breath. But I might not be able to do that 100%. Still, Anutin held yet another rally that very evening, and the sacrifice appears to have paid off handsomely. His conservative Bhumjaithai Party won the most seats in Thailands general election on Sunday, besting a progressive movement that had been surging for years but lost its shine amid rising nationalism and economic doldrums. With 90% of the vote counted, Bhumjaithai had 194 seats of the 500-seat House of Representatives, with the progressive Peoples Party coming second with 116 seats, per an Election Commission tally, meaning Anutin will almost certainly retain the Southeast Asia nations top job, albeit as head of a coalition. We will accept the decision of the people in giving us the confidence, the trust to the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin told reporters at his partys headquarters in Bangkok late Sunday. Here are five takeaways from TIMEs sweeping interview with Anutin regarding his plans for the nation of 70 million. 1. Military influence here to stay Anutins victory capitalized on resurgent nationalism after months of bloody skirmishes between Thailand and Cambodia over their disputed frontier. While the progressive movement campaigned on reducing the bloated militarys role in politics and business, the border spat emboldened Anutin to portray himself as a hawkish patriot protecting national pride and security. However, he also talked up his good relationship with Cambodias Prime Minister Hun Manet, whom he described as very intelligent and capable to TIME. I always had great respect for him. While pinning blame on Cambodia for the bloodshed, Anutin spoke about the imperative to harmonize regional maps to permanently rectify the dispute. However, he declined to take back political authority on border security, which had been devolved to the military itself, empowering the brass hats full discretion to respond to perceived affronts with deadly force. Every move we would sit together and jointly decide, so we work as a team, says Anutin. I dont have to bring back any authority. 2. Progressive pain The results were a blow to the Peoples Party, which was hoping to build on its predecessor Move Forward Partys electoral success in 2023, when it secured a plurality 151 legislative seats. (However, it was blocked from forming a government by the Senate and then dissolved by the Constitutional Court.) While jingoistic support for the military was Anutins secret weapon, the progressives antagonist view of green uniforms turned out to be its kryptonite. Despite receiving the second largest number of votes, Peoples Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut ruled out joining Bhumjaithai in government and instead vowed to hold Anutins government to account in opposition. Dont lose hope, Natthaphong told tearful supporters. Weve come so far. Certainly, Bhumjaithais resounding victory provides grist for Anutins argument that Thais are not hankering after radical reform as the progressives maintain. Division is actually from the media and the people who could not win, he told TIME. Rather than going back to improve themselves, they tend to blame other stuff. However, alongside casting constituency and party ballots, Thais also voted in a referendum on whether to draft a new constitution, with preliminary tallies suggesting some 65% had voted in favor. How that new charter looks will be the next battleground, with progressives keen to amend sections on the establishment-stocked Senate and royal prerogativesbut Anutin, in the driving seat, dead against. 3. Resurgent royalism Other than aligning with Thailands armed forces, Anutin is also close to its sacrosanct royal palace, accompanying King Maha Vajiralongkorn during a four-day visit to Bhutan in April as well as his historic visit to China in November. In 2023, the Move Forward Party campaigned on curbing royal powers, though efforts to reform Thailands draconian royal defamation law, known as lese-majeste or Article 112, were deemed unconstitutional and led to the partys dissolution by the Constitutional Court. As such, the Peoples Party was forced to sidestep this keystone issue in its latest campaign. With the openly royalist Anutin receiving a strong mandate, you can expect efforts to curb royal powers to remain firmly on the backburner. Asked about his relationship with King Vajiralongkorn, Anutin told TIME: I dont dare have a relationship with any royal family member, but Im his humble servant. 4. Its the economy, buffalo! Thailand is already being branded the new sick man of Asia following years of torpid growth owed in large part to relentless political turmoil. (Its economy expanded by only 1.5% last year.) Anutin hopes that his resounding mandate can at least provide a modicum of stability while he enacts his pro-business agenda. He advocates creating new jobs by promoting industries from emerging global growth sectors, such as electric vehicles, medical and wellness services, bio-technology, and the digital economy. But economists warn more structural reform is required to truly arrest Thailands economic tailspin. This includes breaking up the monopoliesfamily-linked conglomerates dominate key sectors such as energy, retail, telecommunications, and food, with the top 5% of companies controlling over 85% of total revenuesomething Anutin told TIME he is determined to tackle. But with such action against the interests of his elite backers, only time will tell whether he will truly walk the talk. Structural reform is never painlessbut postponing it is far more costly, he says. 5. Thailand to keep international balance act Thailand is Americas oldest ally in Asia while also boasts a thriving ethnically Chinese diaspora, including Anutin, whose ancestors hail from Guangdong province. However, Anutin also spent eight years studying and working in New York and feels a great affinity for the U.S. He says that Thailand refuses to take sides in this new era of Great Power competition. We consistently stand by the rules-based international order and the norms agreed upon by the global community, he told TIME. In a polarized world, countries that remain pragmatic and reliable become more valuable, not less. Anutin also wants to play a role within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to bring a lasting peace to war-ravaged neighbor Myanmar, whose ruling junta recently underwent its own election that has been widely condemned as a sham. Engagement does not mean endorsement, Anutin says. We work with all sides to reduce suffering and support ASEAN-led solutions. Thailand prioritizes humanitarian access, regional stability, and the safety of civilians. While ASEAN has a non-interference policy, violence against civilians is a clear moral boundary. Write to Charlie Campbell at charlie.campbell@time.com. MILWAUKEE, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating Valaris (NYSE: VAL) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its recently announced transaction with Transocean. Click here to learn how to join our investigation and obtain additional information or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you. In the transaction, Valaris stockholders will receive 15.235 shares of Transocean stock for each Valaris share. Upon completion, Transocean shareholders will own approximately 53% of the combined company, with Valaris shareholders holding 47%. Valaris insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements. The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Valaris by imposing a significant penalty if Valaris accepts a competing bid. We are investigating the conduct of the Valaris board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders. We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contacts Ademi LLP Guri Ademi Toll Free: (866) 264-3995 Fax: (414) 482-8001 SOURCE Ademi LLP Despite a recent string of shark attacks across the California coast, including the tragic killing of a 55-year-old swimmer, the violent incidents dropped in the United States in 2025 compared to the year prior. At least 28 shark attacks were reported last year in U.S. waters, according to information gathered by USA TODAY and non-profits Global Shark Attack File and TrackingSharks.com. The more than two dozen attacks reported by the organizations are down over the prior year, when 36 people reported being injured by sharks. The International Shark Attack File, run by the Florida Museum of Natural History, classifies the attacks as provoked or unprovoked based on whether a human initiated the contact. The Sunshine State tops the 2025 list of U.S. attacks, with 15 reported last year. California followed with four terrifying encounters. "While sharks may seem frightening, they are vital in keeping our oceans healthy, and the odds of a negative interaction are slim compared to the number of ocean users." Kevin McMurray with Tracking Sharks and a contributing shark attack researcher with ISAF told USA TODAY. A sign reading "Beware of sharks" posted near where swimmers took to the cold water off Harding Beach in Chatham for the annual April Fools plunge on April 6, 2025 in Massachusetts. Last year's incidents in America accounted for just over 41% of the world's 68 documented attacks, which included 11 fatalities. From Hawaii and California to Florida and New York, here's where each attack took place last year across the United States. Where do shark attacks occur the most in the US? Florida (15) Florida leads all 50 states with the highest number of shark attacks documented last year. Shark experts confirmed 15 attacks, but details were not immediately available for five of the incidents, McMurray said. Reported shark attacks in The Sunshine State are as follows: Sept. 2, 3:25 p.m.: Key Largo Bull shark Richard Burrows, an 8-year-old boy, suffered a bite to his upper leg as he snorkled with family near Horseshoe Reef. The boy was taken by medical helicopter to a hospital, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. Aug. 16, 11 p.m.: Cayo Costa Lemon shark Shawn Meuse, 48, sustained serious injuries to his leg while posing with a shark for a photo. The encounter took place while he and his friends fished on the barrier island in southwest Florida, the Boca Grande District Fire Department reported. Aug. 2, noon: Pensacola Bull shark Chance Armand, 28, told USA TODAY he was in waters off Pensacola when a shark bit his knee spearfishing offshore Pensacola Pass. Armand said the shark was attempting to grab a fish he shot. Santa Rosa emergency medical services transported him to a hospital to be treated for the injury. A Great White Shark swims approximately 50 meters off the coast of the Cape Cod National Sea Shore in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on July 15, 2022. July 22, 2:50 p.m.: Hollywood Unknown species A Canadian man in his 40s suffered an injury to his upper arm in chest-deep water with a friend when a fish jumped over his head, and he was quickly attacked by a shark. The victim was taken to a hospital to be treated, Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety said. July 19, 12:11 p.m.: West Palm Beach Lemon shark Jeff Joel, 69, was bitten in the left forearm after he approached a shark while diving with friends in the Jupiter Inlet, The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported. The shark had been caught in a fish stringer about 20 feet deep in the ocean. A shark fin pictured as Israeli rescue services search for a missing man in the Mediterranean sea waters off the coast of Hadera on April 22, 2025. Israeli police said officers were continuing their search for a man reported missing following a suspected shark attack. July 18, noon: New Smyrna Beach Unknown species Sam Hollis, an 18-year-old surf instructor, sustained injuries to his foot while surfing, Volusia County Beach Safety reported. Hollis was paddling to a sandbar and attempted to jump and push his board over a wave when he was bitten. He was taken to a hospital to be treated. July 6, 3 p.m.: New Smyrna Beach Unknown species A 40-year-old man suffered injuries from a shark bite to his right forearm as he swam in the ocean, Voulsia County Beach Safety said. The man was transported to a hospital for treatment, the Daytona News-Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported. Scientists have discovered more than 900 species of sharks and rays and related species Shark researcher Gregory Skomal, right, with the state of Massachusetts, uses a camera to get underwater footage of a white shark during a research mission off Monomoy in 2023. At left is Brian Hanson, volunteer research assistant and member of the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy board of directors. June 11, 12:11 p.m.: Boca Grande Bull shark Leah Lindel, a 9-year-old girl, suffered major injuries to her hand while snorkeling with family members . She was taken by medical helicopter to Tampa General Hospital to receive emergency care. May 27, time unknown: South of Pompano Beach Unknown species A 32-year-old woman snorkeling near a pier off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea was bitten in the arm, NBC Miami reported. The woman was in waist-deep water when she spotted bait fish swimming nearby before the attack. She was treated at a hospital, the outlet said. April 12, 2:48 p.m.: Everglades National Park Unknown species A man suffered injuries to the arm and hand in an attack while fishing in Everglades National Park, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue reported. The man was airlifted to a hospital to be treated for the injuries. California (4) Dec. 21, noon: Monterey Bay Great white shark Erica Fox, 55, disappeared swimming in the bay with more than a dozen people. A witness reported they saw a shark breach the water with what appeared to be a human body in its mouth. The shark then reportedly submerged below the waterline without resurfacing. Fox's body was found several days later, Pacific Grove Police confirmed. Dec. 12, 8 a.m.: Bodega Bay Great white shark A surfer sustained hand injuries at North Salmon Creek in Bodega Bay after a shark reportedly attacked him. The area is just off the Sonoma County coast. The victim declined medical treatment at the scene, the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office said, but he later transported himself to a hospital. Sept. 30, 1:20 a.m.: Catalina Island Great white shark Chris Murray, 54, suffered injuries to the hand and foot swimming the Catalina Channel. The victim reported he was attempting to swim between Catalina Island and the Los Angeles County coast when a small great white shark attacked him twice. Los Angeles Police Department first responders transported him to a local hospital. May 31, 2:30 p.m.: San Mateo Coast Great white shark Jens Heller, 42, was tossed off his surfboard by a shark at Montara State Beach. In an interview with SF Gate, he said a shark knocked him off the board and then attacked it as he swam away. Heller was not seriously harmed. Odds of being killed by a shark The odds of being killed by a shark in the United States are more than 4 million to 1, according to trackingsharks.com. Researchers say people are more likely to die by lighting strike (1 in nearly 80,000), accidental poisoning (1 in 193), or a hospital infection (1 in 38). Hawaii (3) Dec. 9. 4:30 p.m.: Kahaulu'u Beach Blacktip reef shark Josiah Kaimani Ventura, 24, was bitten in one of his thighs in waters off Kona's west shore of the Big Island. He was injured while trying to release a shark stuck in fishing gear and was taken to a hospital to be treated. Nov. 5, mid afternoon: Hanalei Bay on Kauai Tiger shark Chance Swanson, 33, suffered injuries to his legs surfing near Pine Trees on Kauai's North Shore, the Kauai Ocean Safety Bureau reported. The victim had a severed artery and was saved by fellow life guards and taken to a hospital to be treated. Jan. 11, 1:40 p.m.: Town of Haleiwa on Oahu Unknown species A 23-year-old tour boat employee in Hawaii was injured by a shark on the island's North Shore. The man was bitten on the arm and taken to a hospital be treated. Minnesota woman dies from shark attack in Virgin Islands, police say South Carolina (2) June 22, 12:10 p.m.: Sea Pines Beach Unknown species A teenage girl suffered a leg injury after being bitten in waters off Beaufort County. The attack took place at Coligny Beach Park. June 17, 12:07 p.m.: Hilton Head Island Unknown species A 12-year-old girl was bitten on her leg in waters off the south end of Hilton Head Island. The girl was transported to Hilton Head Island Airport, where a medical helicopter flew her to a Savannah facility for treatment. Shark fins are pictured as they swim the Mediterranean sea waters off the coast of Hadera in central Israel on April 22, 2025. Texas (2) Nov. 5, 4 p.m.: Matagorda Beach Unknown species Chuck Bledsoe, 70, suffered injuries to his foot during an attack while fishing at Matagorda Beach. Officials said the injuries weren't major, and he was taken to a local hospital to be treated the next day, The Bay City Tribune reported. Aug. 30, time unknown: Galveston Unknown species Harper Ochoa, 8, sustained injuries to her leg while she swam in waters off Galveston County. The girl was taken to a hospital where her mother said she received 13 staples to her calf area, local TV station KWTX reported. Kayakers paddle above the clear Pacific Ocean water near La Jolla Shores beach as leopard sharks swim beneath them on January 16, 2026 in San Diego, CA. North Carolina (2) July 12, time unknown: Holden Beach Blacktip reef shark Ralph Benson, age unknown, was bitten in the lower leg by a small shark "while surf fishing on the west end of Holden Beach," according to an Oak Island, North Carolina, social media post. The man was taken by medical helicopter to a hospital for treatment. The case remained pending, McMurray said. May 28, 11 a.m.: Sunset Beach Unknown species Sean Barton, 26, suffered a leg injury in an attack swimming just south of Ocean Isle Beach. The Sunset Beach Fire Department said crews transported the victim to a medical facility to be treated. Massachusetts (1) July 6, unknown time: Nantucket Beach Sandbar shark A 21-year-old man suffered injuries to his leg in an attack while fishing at Hoicks Hollow in Nantucket. The victim was taken by medical helicopter to a hospital, according to multiple reports. New York (1) June 26, 4:15 p.m.: Long Island Sand tiger shark A 20-year-old woman swimming in shallow water off Jones Beach State Park near Wantagh sustained minor cuts to her foot and leg when she was bitten. She was taken to a hospital to be treated, The New York Times reported. They survived shark bites Here's what they've learned and the wonders they've seen. How many people are attacked by sharks each year? According to data from ISAF, the world averages 65 documented shark attacks each year. Six fatal attacks are reported annually on average, the data shows. https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1rAwdqreAmcvlkHlTuaddhdn7THoIS1c&femb=1&ll=0%2C0&z=1 How to reduce risk of a shark attack For those who are worried about the risk of an attack, McMurray said to stay in groups near the shore and in areas patrolled by lifeguards. If in a new area, check with locals to find out about rip currents and sea life. "The chances of encountering a shark while in the water are slim in most areas and often worth the risk as the ocean is a beautiful place worth exploring and enjoying," McMurray said. "If you see a shark, face it and stay as calm as possible as you slowly swim away, avoiding splashing." Other tips include: Do not enter water where people are fishing. Do not enter water with an injury, especially if you are bleeding. Avoid wearing shiny jewelry. It can catch sunlight and glint, much like the fish that sharks prey upon. Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How many shark attacks were there last year in the US? See list British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is seen with Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassador's residence on Feb. 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Credit - Carl CourtGetty Images British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing growing calls to resign amid the fallout from his former Labour colleague Peter Mandelsons relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Anas Sarwar, leader of the Scottish Labour Party, urged Starmer to step down during a press conference on Monday afternoon. This isn't easy, and it's not without pain, as I have a genuine friendship with Keir Starmer, but my first priority and my first loyalty is to my country, Scotland, he said, citing fears that the scandal in Westminster risks overshadowing the Scottish Parliament election in May. The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change. Sarwar faced questions himself this past week when a resurfaced social media post showed him referring to Mandelson as an old friend after they shared a meeting last April. The Scottish lawmaker defended the meeting once more on Monday, saying Mandelson shouldnt have been in office in the first place. Starmers chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned from his position over the weekend, claiming responsibility for advising Starmer to appoint Mandelson as the U.K. ambassador to Washingtona move that is under increasing scrutiny, as the lawmaker's ties to Epstein were known to some extent. Tim Allan, Starmers director of communications, followed suit on Monday, resigning from his position in what appeared to be an attempt to ease the pressure on Starmer. But for some, its not enough. Read More: How the Epstein Files Broke Britain Mandelson was sacked from the role of ambassador in September after a previous release of files showed that his relationship with Epstein stretched beyond what was previously known. That appointment is under renewed inspection as emails from the latest release of files appear to show Mandelson leaked sensitive government information to Epstein during his time as Business Secretary under then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown. A police investigation into Mandelson for alleged misconduct in public office offences is now underway. Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party and stepped down from the House of Lords last week. Amid calls for Starmer to follow suit, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister on Monday said he will not be resigning. The Prime Minister is concentrating on the job in hand. He is getting on with the job of delivering change across the country, the spokesperson said, adding that Starmer is confident he has the full support of his Cabinet. Many Cabinet members have since rallied around the Prime Minister, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy among those vocalizing their support. However, Starmers premiership remains under scrutiny and some lawmakers are urging him to consider stepping down. Brian Leishman Brian Leishman, a Scottish member of the Labour Party, fully supported Sarwars message on Monday. I have said that Keir Starmers position is untenable and that it is in the countrys best interest for him to step down and for the government to have a change in direction, Leishman said in a statement to TIME. Sarwar has shown that he and Scottish Labour will act in the best interests of our country, Leishman added, urging a return to real Labour values. Ian Byrne Ian Byrne is among the Labour lawmakers who welcomed McSweeneys resignation on Sunday, describing it as being in the best interests of the government. He claimed Starmers chief of staff had overseen the erosion of internal democracy and the normalization of a deeply damaging factionalism that members and MPs are now living with. But McSweeneys resignation is not enough, according to Byrne. A true change in political direction must now come fromand be led fromthe very top, he said. The PM must now reflect honestly on his own position and ask whether, for the good of the country and the Labour Party, he should follow McSweeneys lead. Neil Duncan-Jordan Neil Duncan-Jordan of the Labour Party said: We can't just keep going on like this, lurching from one crisis to the next, and one of the best ways of resetting is to have renewal, and that means changing who's in charge. When asked during an interview with BBC Radio Solent who should replace Starmer as Prime Minister, Duncan-Jordan pointed to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Labours National Executive Committee (NEC) recently blocked Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election, prompting much tension. We need to recognize that, for the good of the party and for the good of the country, we're going to need a change, said Duncan-Jordan, citing other grievances he had with decisions made by Starmer during his premiership so far, such as a suggestion for means-tested winter fuel allowance and proposed amendments to disability benefits. Kemi Badenoch Leader of the opposition Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has strongly pushed for Starmer to resign since putting pressure on the Prime Minister in the House of Commons last week to answer questions over his appointment of Mandelson. His [Starmer] position now is untenable, because if he thinks that bad advice is enough for Morgan McSweeney to go, then yes, I think that makes his position untenable, Badenoch said in an interview with the BBC on Monday. Badenoch went on to criticize Starmers handling of the entire Mandelson situation. He needs to start governing the country. Everybody makes mistakes. How you handle them shows what sort of character you are. And what he is showing is that he is weak, she claimed. Refusing to suggest an ideal replacement, should Starmer step down, Badenoch said: I don't think there is a single better person on the Labour benches. Let's just be clearthe problem is the Labour Party. Contact us at letters@time.com. A fugitive sought for a fatal shooting in East Camden last year has been apprehended in Spain. Felix De La Cruz-Arias, 30, of Brooklyn, is accused of killing Josue Hiraldo-Peralta, 32, of Camden. A second man, a 28-year-old Camden resident, was wounded in the March 12 attack. The shooting occurred at a home on the 300 block of Morse Street, the Camden County Prosecutor's Office said. Domestic terrorism: Teen admits attack on South Jersey police officer Witnesses told detectives that Hirado-Piralta, who lived for approximately 35 minutes after the attack, identified De La Cruz-Arias by a nickname and said his shooter had formerly lived in the Morse Street residence, according to a probable cause statement. Surveillance video showed a silver BMW park behind the home shortly before the shooting. A man left the vehicle and walked to the rear of the house. Video then tracked the car to Philadelphia, where the vehicle was recovered March 14. Investigators found the suspect's fingerprint and gunshot residue in the car, which was owned by De La Cruz-Arias, the statement said. A review of cellphone data also showed that the suspect's phone had been in the area of Morse Street at the time of the shooting, and that it had then traveled to the scene of the car's recovery. De La Cruz-Arias, who was charged in April 2025, was arrested in Barcelona on Jan. 30. He is being held in Spain, pending extradition to New Jersey. De La Cruz-Ariass arrest in Spain highlights the strength of international law enforcement cooperation, said Nicholas Ricigliano, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Jersey. He noted similar arrests last year for fugitives from Camden County in Mexico and Ukraine. The charges of murder and attempted murder against De La Cruz-Arias are only allegations. He has not been convicted in the case. Anyone with information is asked to call prosecutor's Det. Cody Skinner at 856-580-6053 and Camden County police Det. Matthew Blantz at 609-923-6853. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email: Jwalsh@cpsj.com. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Camden murder suspect arrested in Spain after international search Don Glickman, a stock image of a post card. Don Glickman/Linkedin;Getty NEED TO KNOW Don Glickman, a college design and architecture professor, tasked his daughter with sending posthumous postcards to more than 100 of his favorite people, including former students Each postcard featured a photo of Glickman who died in November 2025 wearing a hoodie and yellow aviator glasses alongside the message, If youre reading this Im dead, and I really liked you" It was the last thing I expected It made me laugh really hard because it was just so him, one of Dons former students said after receiving the postcard A college professor sent a postcard to more than 100 of his favorite people, including former students, after his death. Don Glickman, who worked as an architect before going on to teach at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the University at Buffalo, tasked his daughter, Leah Glickman, with giving some of his loved ones and best students something to remember him by before he ultimately died last year of congestive heart failure at the age of 94. As for what that special something was? According to Jason Snape, who met Don in the late 1980s as one of his design students, he was one of the lucky recipients of a postcard that featured his former professor wearing a hoodie and yellow aviator glasses alongside the message, If youre reading this Im dead, and I really liked you. It was the last thing I expected, Snape, 56, told The Washington Post. It made me laugh really hard because it was just so him. It went through the mail, so everyone along the way saw a postcard that said, Im dead and I really liked you. Don Glickman. Don Glickman/facebook Snape also emphasized that his late professor was a huge inspiration throughout his journey to securing a job at a remodeling firm in Atlanta and becoming a professor himself. He is easily the biggest reason I was better at teaching than anything else Ive done, he wrote of Don on Instagram. His biggest compliment from school? Snape, youre so f---in weird! Thats what I love about you! " "I hope you all had a teacher like him," Snape added. "They set us on our way a way we didnt even know existed. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Dons daughter, Leah, said the postcard idea came to her father last summer while they were chatting at his home in Anacortes, Wash. By that point, he was in the dying process, she explained to The Washington Post, noting that her father was 93 years old and in home hospice at the time. He was an incredibly talented designer, but teaching is what made him feel loved. He would be so very proud to be remembered as a teacher. So, Leah made it her mission to collect the names and addresses of more than 100 of her dads favorite people so that she could send out a postcard to each of them in place of a funeral and Don was overjoyed by the concept. It is thoroughly Don Glickman, Leah quipped of the postcard she created with the help of a graphic designer friend following Dons Nov. 11 death. You knew if he liked you. While sending out the postcards, Leah also took the time to write a message on the back of each one and stamp it with a sketch of her father made years ago by his best friend as his final signoff. After 94 years on this planet, my dad has departed, the message read. His last days were filled with butter pecan ice cream, flamenco music, a view he adored and the love he finally accepted. In a last act of design and Glickman ethos, he asked that this postcard be created, photo and text chosen by him, the note continued. He was who he was til the very end. While the Glickman family was never one to sugarcoat the idea of death or even shy away from the subject, Leah hoped that her and her late fathers final project could encourage others to think differently about death as well. A University at Buffalo sign. AP Photo/David Duprey We never used words in our house like, He passed, she said. We said, He died. No one gets out of here alive. We all go to the bathroom, and we all die. It doesnt have to be so scary, she added. If youre lucky enough to be able to make these decisions at the end of your life, you should feel free to make them. Read the original article on People Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick stands behind President Donald Trump as he gaggles with reporters while aboard Air Force One en route to Palm Beach, Florida, on February 6, 2026. Credit - Samuel CorumGetty Images Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are calling for Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to resign from his post after records in the Justice Departments latest release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein revealed new details about the extent of Lutnicks relationship with the late convicted sex offender. Communications between Lutnick and Epstein, who were once neighbors on Manhattans Upper East Side, that were included in the released documents show that over the course of at least 13 years the men corresponded regularly and appear to have socialized together in New York and the Caribbean, contradicting Lutnicks previous assertions that he cut ties with Epstein in 2005, a New York Times analysis found. Among the records are multiple exchanges between the two men or their assistants that occurred years after Epstein was convicted of soliciting prostitution involving a minor in 2008, including emails in which Lutnick appeared to plan a visit to Epsteins private island in 2012. Other documents indicate they both signed on to invest in the now-defunct advertising technology company AdFin in late 2012. Following reports detailing the revelations about Lutnicks ties to Epstein in the documents, which came as part of a larger trove of more than 3 million pages of files released late last month, Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky called for the Commerce Secretarys resignation on Sunday. Really, he should make life easier on the president, frankly, and just resign, Massie, who co-authored the law that compelled the release of all the governments files related to Epstein, told CNNs Inside Politics. The Kentucky lawmaker added that if this were Great Britain, hed already be gone, alluding to the fallout over the files in the United Kingdom, where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was stripped of his titles and Peter Mandelson was fired from his position as the U.K. ambassador to the U.S. following disclosures about the mens associations with Epstein. Read more: From Downing Street to the Royal Family, How the Epstein Files Broke Britain Secretary Howard Lutnick lied to the country about his ties to Epstein, Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff of California wrote on X the following day. Now we learned that they were in business together. He has no business being our Commerce Secretary. He should resign. Another California Democrat, Rep. Robert Garcia, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, went a step further in a Sunday post, writing that Lutnick must resign or be fired. And he must answer our questions, Garcia added. A spokesperson for the Commerce Department told TIME in a statement that Mr. and Mrs. Lutnick met Jeffrey Epstein in 2005 and had very limited interactions with him over the next 14 years. This is nothing more than a failing attempt by the legacy media to distract from the administrations accomplishments including securing trillions of dollars in investment, delivering historic trade deals and fighting for the American worker, the department said. Lutnick previously said while being interviewed on the Pod Force One podcast last year that he was never in the room with Epstein socially, for business or even philanthropy after a visit to the financiers townhouse in 2005 caused Lutnick to find him disgusting. Read more: Commerce Secretary Calls Jeffrey Epstein The Greatest Blackmailer Ever However, correspondence included in the newest release of files indicates that Lutnick planned a visit to Epsteins private island, Little St. James, off the coast of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands in December 2012four years after Epsteins conviction on prostitution charges. On Nov. 20 that year, Epsteins assistant wrote in an email to Lutnick, , Jeffrey Epstein understands you will be down in St Thomas some over the holidays. Jeffrey requested I please pass along some phone numbers to you so the two of you can possibly get together. The following month, Lutnick sent an email to a recipient whose name was redacted in the released document in which he appeared to try to make arrangements for a visit. Hi Jeff, the Dec. 20, 2012, message reads. We are landing in St. Thomas early Saturday afternoon and planning to head over to St. Barts/Anguilla on Monday at some point. Where are you located (what is exact location for my captain)? Does Sunday evening for dinner sound good? A message from Epstein passed along to Lutnick by his assistant days later that reads, Nice seeing you, suggests that the trip occurred. Other documents included in the released files show that Lutnick and Epstein planned to meet for drinks in May 2011 and that Lutnick invited Epstein to a very =ntimate fundraising event with Hilary Clinton in November 2015, among other dealings. Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the chair of the House Oversight Committee, did not rule out issuing a subpoena to Lutnick in the panels Epstein investigation while speaking to reporters on Monday. Were interested in talking to anyone that might have any information that would help us get justice for the survivorship, Comer said. Contact us at letters@time.com. A judge in a robe holds a gavel over a desk in a courtroom. Photo: Shopify Partners / Burst (The Center Square) The federal government is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit against the U.S. Army filed by victims of the 2023 mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine by a reservist with a history of mental illness. The lawsuit, filed in September, alleges that the U.S. Army, the Department of Defense, and the Keller Army Community Hospital ignored warning signs that Army Reserve Sgt. Robert Card posed a threat to the community before he killed 18 people at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, setting off a two-day manhunt that ended when he committed suicide. But the U.S. Department of Justice is asking a federal judge to dismiss the legal challenge, saying the plaintiffs lack standing under the Federal Tort Claims Act to file the lawsuit and arguing that Card not the Army was "solely responsible" for the shooting. "This mass shooting is an unspeakable tragedy," the DOJ lawyers wrote in the 72-page motion to dismiss. "But for many reasons, plaintiffs have no viable claims against the United States under the FTCA." The legal challenge followed reports suggesting the Army missed opportunities to potentially stop the rampage and a ruling by a federal judge two weeks ago that paved the way for family members and survivors of the Lewiston shooting to access Card's military records. Plaintiffs allege that the Army "broke its promises, failed to act reasonably, violated its own policies and procedures and disregarded directives and orders" by failing to act on Card's mental health issues. The Lewiston shooting was the worst in Maine's history and drew national attention to the largely rural state, which has the country's lowest crime rate but a long record of resisting firearm restrictions. Card's family members had reportedly alerted the Army and local authorities that he was having mental health issues and was heavily armed. He had been placed in a psychiatric unit about three weeks before the shooting, family members said. An independent commission created by Gov. Janet Mills concluded there were enough warning signs for local authorities to seize the gunman's weapons under the state's "yellow flag" law meaning officers can take firearms belonging to anyone believed to be a threat to themselves or others before the Oct. 25 rampage. An Army report released in June outlines a series of failures and "multiple errors" by Card's unit leading up to the shooting. Three officers in Card's reservist unit were disciplined for failing to follow proper procedures, according to the Army's report. The Army report also faulted local law enforcement for not doing enough, saying investigators could have conducted "a more extensive welfare check" before the attack and confiscated his firearms. But the DOJ noted in its motion to dismiss the case that Card was not an active duty service member at the time of the shooting, and warned the judge that making the army liable for his actions "could give rise to unending liability for the United States in relation to the conduct of current or former service members." Plaintiffs argument would mean that the Army has a legal duty to anyone who may be harmed by a current or former service member who developed a mental illness as a result of their service," the DOJ's lawyers wrote. Sharon Osbourne may be trying her hand in politics soon.MEGA Sharon Osbourne could be considering an extraordinary shift from show business to local politics after Conservative figures urged her to stand in city council elections against a man convicted over a terrorism plot in a move sources have told RadarOnline.comcould offer the fragile widow much-needed focus amid her grief over the death of her husband, Ozzy Osbourne. A proposal for her to run as a politician emerged after local Conservatives published an open letter inviting London-born Sharon, 73, to run in the May elections in the U.K., arguing her public profile and blunt speaking style could help tackle the council's severe financial problems. Shahid Butt's Controversial Council Bid Explained Conservative figures have urged Sharon Osbourne to run in the local city council elections.MEGA The intervention followed Sharon's online reaction to news Shahid Butt, standing for the Independent Candidates Alliance, intended to contest a seat. Butt, 60, was convicted over a plot to blow up the British consulate in Yemen, though he has insisted the charge was "fabricated." He was sentenced to five years in prison in 1999 after being found guilty of planning terrorist attacks against the British consulate, an Anglican church, and a Swiss-owned hotel in Yemen. Prosecutors said the terrorist cell had been dispatched by Abu Hamza, the notorious Islamist preacher later jailed in the U.S, and whose son was among those convicted in the same case. Butt continued to deny his terrorism conviction, claiming his confession was extracted under torture. He has also said evidence against him was fabricated. But he has admitted to having a violent past, which he attributes to racism he experienced while growing up in Birmingham. Before his conviction in Yemen, Butt had already served prison time in Birmingham for violent offenses and was linked to the Lynx gang a predominantly Pakistani street mob involved in fights with skinheads and the National Front during the 1980s. Sharon Osbourne's Shock Political Pivot Sharon Osbourne posted a video on Instagram about her potential move to Birmingham to run for office.MEGA Sharon posted a video response on Instagram after watching footage featuring Butt, writing: "I think I'm gonna move to Birmingham and put my name down for the ballot to be on the council," before adding: "I'm serious." The comment prompted a swift response from local Conservatives, who have been searching for a high-profile candidate as the council continues to struggle under the weight of effective bankruptcy and public anger over cuts to services. Councillor Robert Alden, who leads the Conservative group on Birmingham City Council, said the invitation was genuine. He wrote: "There is no doubt that Sharon Osbourne getting elected would help turn the council around." Alden added: "Sharon is clearly passionate about wanting to help make our city even better." The comments were published in an open letter addressed directly to Sharon and shared by party activists. Councillor Robert Alden invited the celebrity to help turn the council around.MEGA A source close to the Conservatives said the pitch was not just about celebrity appeal. They added: "The feeling is that Sharon Osbourne would instantly change the dynamic of the campaign and the council chamber itself. She is not someone who shies away from confrontation, and they believe she would publicly challenge senior officials, demand answers on how public funds are being spent, and push conversations about the city's finances that many people have avoided for years. In the Conservatives' view, her presence alone would make it much harder for the establishment to carry on as usual." Another insider said the idea of a campaign had "sparked something" in Sharon after months dominated by mourning. A 'Distraction' From Grief? Sharon Osbourne attended her husbands funeral in Birmingham during the month of July.MEGA Ozzy, the Black Sabbath frontman and self-styled Prince of Darkness, died last year aged 76 after years of ill health. He had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019 and suffered a series of complications following spinal surgery. His death marked the end of one of heavy metal's most influential careers, from the early days of Black Sabbath through a chaotic solo run that made him a global star. Sharon attended Ozzy's funeral in the city of his birth, Birmingham, in July. The ceremony drew fans from around the world, with armies of them lining the streets in tribute. In the months since, Sharon has spoken privately about struggling with the sudden quiet after decades of managing Ozzy's career and public life. One associate said a political campaign could be "a way of channeling her energy" somewhere, "demanding and purposeful" to "distract" herself from grief. Another source said the idea of her running against Butt had struck her as "symbolic", given Birmingham's struggles with extremism, social cohesion, and public trust. Butt has maintained his innocence and said his conviction was politically motivated. There is no indication Sharon has formally agreed to stand, and party officials stressed any candidacy would be her decision alone. Stock photo of the Amazon Rainforest Getty NEED TO KNOW Peruvian and French scientists discovered a new frog species in the San Martin region of the Amazon forest in Peru The species is called the Oreobates shunkusacha, and scientists say the frogs are already at risk of becoming endangered The one-inch brown frog can be found in cloud forests, which are forests over 4,430 feet above sea level Scientists and guides discovered a new amphibian species in South America. A group of scientists from Peru and France, led by Indigenous guides, traveled to a cloud forest in the San Martin region of Peru and spotted a new frog species, now known as Oreobates shunkusacha, which was published in the journal Salamandra. And while the frog is new to science, there are already concerns that the amphibian is at risk of extinction. The frog was named in tribute to the indigenous people of Peru. In the native language of the Kichwa-Lamista people, the word Shunku Sacha means heart of the forest, Mongabay reports. The scientists, who work with Nature Conserv'Action and the Ararankha AssociationEcology and Conservation, spotted the frog on the Amazon floor. The one-inch animal camouflages among the fallen leaves. The frog is dark brown with golden irises. The frogs emerge at night and roam the forest floors covered in leaves, moss, and ferns. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The species inhabits cloud forests, which are forests found over 4,430 feet above sea level. "Because these are isolated hills, they act like islands with unique ecosystems in which such species live," Ernesto Castillo, a herpetologist at Ararankha and the Salamandra's lead author, said. The scientists warned in their findings that the oreobates shunkusacha should be classified as endangered due to threats to its habitat, including deforestation and a small range. Around 60% of forest cover has decreased due to coffee farming, livestock grazing, and illegal logging, Mongabay reports. Due to habitat loss, Oreobates shunkusacha is at greater risk of extinction. Read the original article on People An 11-year-old girl shares her story after her mother was detained in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on February 5. - Austin Steele/CNN Her long dark hair flowing from a bright pink beanie, the 11-year-old from Ecuador calmly recalled her mother venturing out of their small South Minneapolis apartment last Monday morning for the first time in a month and a half. Bye, dear, take good care of yourself, her mother said in Spanish. Mami, please be careful, the girl, whose name CNN is not publishing because of her age, responded. That was the last time I saw her. The sixth grader was groggy that first Monday in February. She was up late with her mom the night before, contemplating the risks of a quick run to a nearby grocery store for supplies. Food and money were running low. They had relied on food donations from her school but her mother, who had not worked in more than a month, was embarrassed to ask for more. She decided it was too dangerous to go out, the girl told CNN, reflecting the widespread paralysis and fear among many families in a city where for weeks aggressive federal immigration officers carrying out raids near schools, at homes and in workplaces have been on a collision course with enraged residents. It was like mother had a premonition something was going to happen. She reminded me where she kept an envelope with our immigration documents. She had trouble sleeping. The next morning, the girl got a brief call: Crying, her mom said federal immigration agents were after her. Then the call ended. On a video posted to social media moments later, she watched as federal officers took her mother into custody. An 11-year-old girl talks about staying home for weeks before her mother was detained in Minneapolis. - Austin Steele/CNN Her mother had been transferred from the federal building in Minneapolis to a controversial Texas detention facility 1,400 miles away, according to John Hayden, an attorney who within days secured a federal court order demanding her return to Minnesota. Hayden asked that his client, who has applied for asylum in the US, not be identified for fear of retaliation. She was returned to a Minneapolis detention facility Friday morning. Days after federal agents arrested the Ecuadorian mother hiding under a trailer on a snowy Minneapolis street, White House border czar Tom Homan said 700 federal law enforcement personnel will be withdrawn from the state. Still, a few hundred departing would leave more than 2,000 agents in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas a federal force more than three times the size of the Minneapolis Police Department. Even with the so-called drawdown, many Minneapolis-area activists say little has changed and theyre preparing for prolonged resistance. Reports of federal officers near schools and homes continue to circulate on chat groups and social media, keeping many immigrant families in their homes. Anxiety has mounted since two fatal shootings of US citizens by federal agents in January: Mother of three Renee Nicole Good and ICU nurse Alex Pretti. Small armies of residents still gather to observe federal officers from cars or on foot honking horns and blowing whistles to alert neighbors. Volunteers shuttle people to and from job sites. Teachers and school workers monitor parents dropping off and picking up students. Individuals, nonprofits and local businesses collect bags of food, baby formula, diapers and other items and deliver them to people too scared to leave their homes. People walk by posters for Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, on February 4. - Austin Steele/CNN American Mom and ICU Nurse A sprawling makeshift memorial along Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis, a popular stretch of restaurants and shops, marks the place where Pretti was gunned down. There are candles and flowers wilted and dried by the cold air and surrounded by letters and poems and hand-scrawled signs. Outside a shop, a pair of posters are plastered next to one another with photos of Good and Pretti two people whose shootings by federal agents DHS has defended along with the words American Mom and ICU Nurse. Large red letters under their images say, Murdered by ICE. Near the entrance to a nearby restaurant, a group of horn players performed Angels from the Realms of Glory behind a sign that read, We support our neighbors. Standing on the corner a few feet away, Laura Purdie Salas, who writes childrens books and poetry, held up a cardboard sign with the message We all belong on one side and ICE out on the other. Some passing motorists honked in support. It just feels like you cant stay silent anymore, she said as her husband played a horn outside the restaurant. A band plays hymns near the Alex Pretti memorial in Minneapolis, on February 4. - Austin Steele/CNN Laura Purdie Salas holds a sign protesting ICE at a Minneapolis intersection. - Austin Steele/CNN The Twin Cities has been the epicenter of President Donald Trumps hard-line enforcement since early December, when the Department of Homeland Security launched Operation Metro Surge, deploying roughly 3,000 federal agents to Minnesota and sparking nationwide protests over their militarized tactics and confrontations with the public. The White House has justified the immigration crackdown as a response to widespread fraud in government-funded safety net programs, especially in Minnesotas Somali community. This is a huge wake-up call, Purdie Salas said. As somebody who doesnt face a lot of bias myself, its been a real eye-opener and inspiration that there are people out here just like me who want their families to be safe and that its time to get off my butt and be heard about it, even when thats not what Im comfortable doing. Bishop Kevin Kenney, who was born in Minneapolis and has ministered to the Latino community for years, recalled a litany of tragedies that have shaken and transformed the Twin Cities in recent years, including the murder of George Floyd at the knee of a city policeman. Bishop Kevin Kenney of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis at St. Olaf Church in Minneapolis, on February 5. - Austin Steele/CNN More and more were getting used to these rallies and these protests, but its unfortunate that we are. This is a historical moment, said Kenney, who last month blessed members of an Ecuadoran family from Minneapolis who decided to leave the US voluntarily rather than risk deportation even though they were on a path to legal status. After Pretti was fatally shot, Homan replaced the hard-charging Border Patrol official Greg Bovino as head of the Minnesota operation. I think Alex Prettis death woke up America. I dont think its just immigration. I think we have to look at our freedom, Kenney said. Across the street from Hamburguesas El Gordo, a Mexican street food spot on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis, a 29-year-old arborist stood on a corner Wednesday morning wearing a black hooded jacket under a reflective vest and an orange whistle on a string around his neck. The man, who declined to give his name for fear of retribution, said he decided to become an observer after the Pretti shooting. I feel special as somebody living in this area, and I feel a sense of pride in Minneapolis and Minnesota and the community at large, he said. He has considered the risks. There are parts of this that are kind of scary, he said. But theres so much going on and theres people dying in detainment and I want to just try to help in the ways that I can. This is the first time I do something like this. Karmit speaks during an ICE observer training at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on February 4. - Austin Steele/CNN We need to be the eyes and the ears Under the soaring wooden beams and shimmering stained glass of a church in Saint Paul on Wednesday evening, more than 400 people attended a training session for legal observers who monitor and document ICE enforcement actions. Make no mistake, we are in a very dangerous crossroads. Our state is currently gripped by fear, anger, hurt, but also by determination, a volunteer named Karmit told the gathering, sponsored by a coalition named Monarca that says it has instructed more than 26,000 people about their constitutional rights as observers of ICE operations. What were facing now the deaths, the chaos, the fear this is a campaign of organized brutality and we cannot stand silent. One participant said he lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, about 90 miles east of the Twin Cities. A day earlier, he said, there were reports of ICE agents near his sons elementary school. More than 400 people attended a training sessions for ICE observers in St. Paul. - Austin Steele/CNN Whistles are available to participants at an ICE observer training session at a church in St. Paul. - Austin Steele/CNN Hundreds of people filled pews during a training session for ICE observers in St. Paul, Minnesota, on February 4, 2026. - Austin Steele/CNN It just feels like theres this big, dark cloud coming toward our city and Id like to kind of find out what to do, he said. In her introduction, Karmit told participants, Weve been called domestic terrorists for our peaceful protesting We need to be the eyes and the ears that hold federal agents accountable. The information we document with our cameras can be used in legal cases. They can be used in litigation against federal entities or agents. Volunteers spoke of the risks of verbal and physical confrontations with ICE agents, including the use of pepper spray and other irritants against observers and even arrests. We should not act alone, Karmit said. You should go with a buddy. You should make sure there are other people with you. You should let people who you reside with know where youre going, and there may be violence. Dont let it scare us into inaction. In the days after the training session, about 190 of the more than 400 people who attended had signed on to be observers, according to Luis Argueta, a spokesman for the grassroots organization Unidos MN and a speaker at the event. People stop at a memorial for Renee Good in Minneapolis, on February 4. - Austin Steele/CNN We are not going to give up Sprawling memorials for Good have been erected near the spot where she was shot and around the wooden pole where her SUV crashed after she was killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent. There are wooden crosses and paintings, flowers and candles and hundreds of messages and letters along the snowy sidewalk. Volunteers sitting by a burning fire guard the memorial around the clock. One of them is a photographer from Atlanta named Ryan Vizzions, who said he had been traveling for five years working on a photo book about where we are as a country. He was in Minneapolis the day Good was killed. I just kind of put away the camera and picked up a shovel and started taking care of the vigil, he said. On any given day, youll see people from different walks of life come down here and show their respect. Its been really beautiful to just sit here and watch all the love that comes into it. Another volunteer watching over the memorial is a woman from Ecuador named Fabiola Rodriguez, a single mother who works as a construction contractor. She said she knows at least 30 people who have been detained by ICE in Minneapolis in the last two months. It doesnt matter right now if you are legal or not legal, she said. But we are Minnesotans. We are not going to give up. I realize that sitting at home, Im not doing anything. Its better to stand up and talk and ask for justice. Leaves colored and noted by students at Valley View Elementary School are seen in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, on February 5. - Austin Steele/CNN Some 100 students are learning from home The entrance to Valley View Elementary School in the Minneapolis suburb of Columbia Heights resembles a food pantry these days, with cabinets filled with cans of food products and plastic crates brimming with childrens clothes. Jason Kuhlman, the principal, said the school delivers food to 140 families a week. Kuhlman said 100 of the schools 570 students are learning virtually. About 66% of the students are Latino, mostly from Ecuador. A majority of those families are not coming out of their homes, he said. They have green cards. They have visas. They have work permits. Theyre in the middle of seeking asylum. And theres some that are probably undocumented. Four days before Pretti was killed, a photograph of 5-year-old Valley View student Liam Conejo Ramos circulated widely. The boy is wearing a blue bunny hat and a Spider-Man backpack. A federal officer towers over the child, his hand on the backpack, as the boy and his dad are detained after school lets out. Principal Jason Kuhlman stands in his office at Valley View Elementary School in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. - Austin Steele/CNN Liam Ramos cubby in his classroom at Valley View Elementary School in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. - Austin Steele/CNN Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, were taken from their snowy suburban Minneapolis driveway last month to a family detention center in Dilley, Texas, sparking widespread outrage. After more than a week at the Dilley center, the preschooler and his Ecuadorian father are back home in Minneapolis after a judge ordered them to be released. Their detention ended but their future in the United States remains in limbo as the family will now have to make their case for asylum. Nearly 30 Valley View students as well as parents or caregivers have been detained by federal officers during the immigration sweeps, according to Kuhlman. In case mami comes home Another parent snatched by federal officers off the streets of Minneapolis is the mother of the 11-year-old girl from Ecuador who has been staying in the home of an ICE observer she met just this week. The girl said she has spoken by phone with her mom several times since her arrest and subsequent transfer. Her attorney said she was taken to the Camp East Montana detention facility in Texas and, according to ICEs online detainee locator system site, later moved to jail in Willmar, a city about 90 miles east of Minneapolis. I would tell her I was OK so she wouldnt worry, she said. ICE and the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to CNNs request for comment. She recalled long days she spent inside the apartment with her mother as federal agents carried out raids and, at times, clashed with protesters. There is no TV in the apartment, but they watched videos and photos on their phones. Her mother, who washed dishes at a restaurant on weekends and cleaned hotel rooms six days a week, stopped going to work. The girl received packets of classwork delivered from her school which also dropped off bags of food a couple of times. She liked to tidy up around the apartment to keep busy, she said. An 11-year-old girl is in hiding after her mother was detained in Minneapolis. - Austin Steele/CNN Mom cooked. Every single night it was soup, she recalled. In the morning, she would make eggs and rice. On the day of the arrest, the girl said she dialed her mothers phone several times and got no answer. After a while, she grabbed the envelope with their immigration documents, as her mother had instructed, and headed outside for the first time in more than a month for a long walk to the home of a family friend. At first, I was afraid. I knew it was dangerous, she said. But I thought about my mother. What would happen to her if I didnt help? I prayed to God the whole way. On Friday, her mother called to say she had been returned to Minneapolis but was still being held at the federal building downtown. She told her daughter and her caregiver that she was unsure if she would be released. Hayden, her lawyer, said he had not been notified of the transfer. A day earlier, the girl said, her caregiver took her to the apartment where she lived with her mother to retrieve some clothes. I cleaned the apartment. I made the bed. I washed the dishes. I left everything in order in case mami comes home, she said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com NewsGuard founders L. Gordon Crovitz (left) and Steven Brill | FIRE/Wikimedia Commons Andrew Ferguson, chairman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), thinks NewsGuard, a company that rates the transparency and credibility of online news sources, is biased against conservatives. There is not much evidence to support that claim. But even if it were true, NewsGuard argues in a First Amendment lawsuit it filed last Friday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, Ferguson would have no business using his regulatory authority to harass the company and discourage advertisers from relying on its ratings. "Under the guise of a supposed antitrust investigation, the FTC has demanded all documents (memos, emails, texts, reporters' notes, subscriber lists, analyses, financial reports, and more) that NewsGuard has created or received since its founding in 2018," the complaint notes. The FTC also has directly attacked NewsGuard's revenue by conditioning the merger of two advertising agencies on the resulting company's agreement to refrain from subscribing to the rating service. "NewsGuard's rating service is quintessential journalistic activity protected by the First Amendment," says Robert Corn-Revere, chief counsel at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), which is representing the company. He adds that the Supreme Court, in the 2024 case Moody v. NetChoice, "unanimously affirmed that the government has no legitimate role in saying what counts as the right balance of private expressionto 'un-bias' what it thinks is biased." NewsGuard was founded by former Wall Street Journal publisher L. Gordon Crovitz and Steven Brill, founder of The American Lawyer and Court TV. Its subscribers include advertisers, who use its ratings to guide ad buys, and online news consumers, who can access browser extensions that incorporate the ratings. The ratings are based on what Crovitz describes as "nine apolitical journalistic criteria using a transparent process with multiple layers of review and fact-checking." The "transparency" criteria include "discloses ownership and financing," "clearly labels advertising," "reveals who's in charge, including possible conflicts of interest," and "provides the names of content creators, along with either contact or biographical information." The "credibility" criteria include "does not repeatedly publish false or egregiously misleading content," "gathers and presents information responsibly," "has effective practices for correcting errors," "handles the difference between news and opinion responsibly," and "avoids deceptive headlines." As Ferguson sees it, that ostensibly apolitical process is systematically biased against right-wing voices. As an FTC commissioner in November 2024, he alleged that NewsGuard had "led collusive ad boycottspossibly in violation of our antitrust lawsto censor the speech of conservative and independent media in the United States." The following month, Ferguson returned to that theme in a concurring statement. "If a website gets a poor rating on NewsGuard's 'nutrition label,' it can choke off the advertising dollars that are the lifeblood for many websitesincluding platforms on which millions of Americans every day speak their minds," he wrote. "NewsGuard 'goes to great lengths to create the appearance of nonpartisanship and objectivity,' but it seems to give a free pass to deceptive and biased news coverage by major left-leaning outlets. NewsGuard is, of course, free to rate websites by whatever metric it wants. But the antitrust laws do not permit third parties to facilitate group boycotts among competitors." Ferguson thought the FTC should take action based on that concern. "Censorship, even if carried out transparently and honestly, is inimical to American democracy," he said. "The Commission must use the full extent of its authority to protect the free speech of all Americans. That authority includes the power to investigate collusion that may suppress competition and, in doing so, suppress free speech online. We ought to conduct such an investigation. And if our investigation reveals anti-competitive cartels that facilitate or promote censorship, we ought to bust them up." Ferguson followed through on that threat after President Donald Trump appointed him as chairman of the FTC in January 2025. That May, the FTC issued a 21-page "civil investigative demand" (CID) to NewsGuard seeking "vast numbers of confidential and sensitive documents," the company's complaint says. That CID, which included "31 Specifications" with "dozens of subparts," was "designed to burden and bleed NewsGuard," the lawsuit alleges. Under the Federal Trade Commission Act, the CID was supposed to specify the legal violation that the commission was investigating. But the CID conspicuously failed to do so, "leaving the company to guess about what the agency alleged was at issue or how it could have anything to do with legitimate enforcement of antitrust or competition laws." All of this was consistent with the modus operandi that Ferguson had described at an antitrust conference in April 2025. "We have a tremendous array of investigative tools," he bragged. "Those tools are expensive when applied to you even if we don't win at the end of the day." Regulators "can show up, they can audit, they can investigate, [and] they can cost you a lot of money," he noted. The point, he said, is that even if a company thinks it has done nothing wrong, it had better "knuckle under" and "do what we say." NewsGuard negotiated with the FTC for seven months in an attempt to mitigate the burden imposed by the CID, arguing that many of the commission's demands were excessive and noting that "its dealings with customers are plainly protected First Amendment activities." But in the end, the complaint says, it became clear that the FTC was determined to press "several of the most intrusive, infringing demands," including "identification of all NewsGuard subscribers," "communications with customers," "identification of all entities to which NewsGuard had ever assigned a News Reliability Rating," "the particulars of each rating assigned to each entity over time," and documents, including internal correspondence, showing "how NewsGuard has developed methodologies for ratings." Meanwhile, Ferguson was pursuing his vendetta against NewsGuard by exercising the FTC's authority to review mergers. As a condition for approving the merger of Omnicom Group and the Interpublic Group of Companies, which created "the world's largest advertising agency and media buying company," the FTC decreed that the new entity, in placing ads, could not consider "political or ideological viewpoints," including "viewpoints as to the veracity of news reporting or other politically or ideologically contested facts, such as their characterization as 'misinformation,' 'disinformation,' 'bias,' or similar terms." Nor could it consider "adherence to journalistic standards or ethics established or set by a Third Party." That condition "targets NewsGuard 'with the precision of a laser beam,'" the lawsuit says. It meant Omnicom and its affiliates could not do business with NewsGuard. And according to the lawsuit, NewsGuard has lost other clients as a result of the Omnicom consent ordera chilling effect it expects will continue to curtail its revenue. Given Ferguson's "tactics and pronouncements" about "targeting tech and media companies supposedly associated with a 'censorship cartel,' NewsGuard has ample grounds for concern that the FTC aims to find NewsGuard's customers to pressure them, too," the complaint says. "Though today such improper tactics to impose informal censorship are called 'jawboning,' the FTC's demands are also reminiscent of the witch hunts of the McCarthy era." The motivation for the NewsGuard-excluding merger provision was clear from comments that Ferguson made during negotiations with Omnicom. "Industry groups and private organizations have publicly sought to use the chokepoint of the advertising industry to effect political or ideological goals," he complained in June 2025. In a footnote, Ferguson cited a 2024 House Committee on Small Business staff report "describing NewsGuard and other organizations' steering of advertising revenue with 'an unavoidable partisan lens.'" Ferguson dresses his critique of NewsGuard, which echoes complaints from Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, in the language of antitrust enforcement, an FTC bailiwick. But as the lawsuit notes, "the company's share of the market for advertiser brand safety tools is so de minimisless than 0.1%that NewsGuard could not possibly be a legitimate target of an antitrust investigation of that market." Rather than make that implausible argument, Ferguson frames his actions against NewsGuard as an effort to save "American democracy" by preventing "censorship" and protecting "free speech." But his understanding of censorship and free speech is fundamentally misguided. The First Amendment is a constraint on government, not on private actors. Yet Ferguson claims he is protecting freedom of speech by attacking NewsGuard's exercise of it. That position is consistent with Ferguson's claim that social media platforms "may have violated the law by silencing and intimidating Americans for speaking their minds." He touted that investigation as a blow against "the tyranny of Big Tech" and "an important step forward in restoring free speech." His chief complaint, as with his beef against NewsGuard, is that "Big Tech censorship" discriminates against Republicans and conservatives. But even if that were true, there would be nothing inherently illegal about it. Although Ferguson suggested that social media platforms may be engaging in "unfair or deceptive acts or practices," his comments make it clear that his actual aim, as in the NewsGuard case, is to correct an alleged bias against his political team. But the FTC has no authority to do that, and overriding the editorial discretion of private businesses in the name of free speech would itself violate the First Amendment. NewsGuard's lawsuit alleges that the FTC's attack on the company has been driven largely by complaints from NewsMax, a right-wing cable TV outlet that has received low NewsGuard ratings. Those low ratings are not surprising given the channel's record of reality-defying journalism. NewsMax has been a leading promoter of Trump's baseless claims that systematic election fraud deprived him of his rightful victory in 2020. In September 2024, NewsMax settled a defamation lawsuit by Smartmatic, one of the companies implicated in Trump's stolen-election fantasy, for an undisclosed sum. Last August, it announced a $67 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, which likewise figured in that fantasy. Despite those settlements, Newsmax insists there was nothing wrong with its reporting on the 2020 presidential election. "Newsmax believed it was critically important for the American people to hear both sides of the election disputes that arose in 2020," the outlet said after the Dominion settlement. "We stand by our coverage as fair, balanced, and conducted within professional standards of journalism." Newsmax's complaints about NewsGuard's alleged ideological bias nevertheless have been echoed by Ferguson, Carr, legislators such as Sen. Ted Cruz (RTexas) and Rep. James Comer (RKy.), and conservative organizations such as the Media Research Center. In rebuttal, NewsGuard notes that "many left-leaning outlets receive lower scores than comparable right-leaning sources." For example, "Fox News scores higher than MSNBC, the conservative Washington Examiner outscores the liberal Daily Beast, and the conservative Daily Caller outscores the liberal Daily Kos." The complaint adds that "Newsmax's offensive against NewsGuard appears to be motivated by the fact that it has received lower reliability ratings than other conservative news sources such as Fox News, the National Review, and the Washington Times." NewsGuard notes that "Newsmax competes with these sites for advertisers." Whatever you make of this dispute, NewsGuard's supposed bias is irrelevant to the constitutional question of whether Ferguson's actions are consistent with the First Amendment. In Moody v. NetChoice, which involved Florida and Texas laws that aimed to prevent "censorship" by restricting the moderation practices of social media platforms, the Supreme Court made it clear that the government has no business trying to shape online speech in the name of balance. "This Court has many times held, in many contexts, that it is no job for government to decide what counts as the right balance of private expressionto 'un-bias' what it thinks biased, rather than to leave such judgments to speakers and their audiences," Justice Elena Kagan wrote in the majority opinion. "On the spectrum of dangers to free expression, there are few greater than allowing the government to change the speech of private actors in order to achieve its own conception of speech nirvana. That is why we have said in so many contexts that the government may not 'restrict the speech of some elements of our society in order to enhance the relative voice of others.'" The FTC "has pursued its campaign because Chairman Ferguson does not like NewsGuard's news ratings, which he views as biased against conservative publications," the company's lawsuit says. "That is wrongNewsGuard's ratings and journalism about news sources are non-partisan and based on fully disclosed journalistic criteria. But the FTC's actions [would be] plainly unconstitutional even if that were not the case. The First Amendment does not allow the government to pick and choose speech based on what it likes or dislikes." NewsGuard argues that the FTC's investigation and the Omnicom consent order amount to unconstitutional retaliation for speech protected by the First Amendment. It notes that federal courts reached a similar conclusion regarding oppressive CIDs that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (now deputy director of the FBI) issued to Media Matters for America. Paxton and Bailey decided to investigate the organization, ostensibly for deceptive trade practices, after it irked X owner Elon Musk by calling attention to "extremist and racist rhetoric" on his platform, reporting that X had placed some large companies' ads "next to pro-Nazi content." In August 2024, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta issued a preliminary injunction against Paxton's CID, a decision that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed in May 2025. The D.C. Circuit said Media Matters was the "target of a government campaign of retaliation" and an "arguably bad faith investigation" that infringed "exercise of their First Amendment rights" and imposed "special burdens on their newsgathering activities and operation of their media company." Mehta also issued a preliminary injunction against Bailey's CID. He noted that Bailey had described Media Matters as a bunch of "radicals" and "progressive tyrants" who were "masquerading" as journalists when their real goal was to "wipe out free speech." Media Matters had "pursued an activist agenda in its attempt to destroy X" and was "rigging the system to take down X," he averred. Displaying confusion similar to Ferguson's, Bailey described Media Matters' criticism of X as "a new front in the war against the First Amendment." He said his probe was part of "the war for free speech," which he emphasized was "really criticalespecially as we move into an election cycle in 2024." In light of those comments, Mehta said, "a reasonable factfinder" would be likely to conclude that Bailey was "targeting Media Matters not for legitimate law enforcement purposes but instead for its protected First Amendment activities." The FTC has launched its own investigation of Media Matters, likewise motivated by the organization's reporting about X, which the commission says encouraged an advertiser boycott that had a dramatic impact on the platform's revenue. In June, Media Matters filed a First Amendment lawsuit challenging the FTC's investigation. Last August, U.S. District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan granted the organization's request for a preliminary injunction, concluding that "Media Matters is likely to show that retaliatory animus was the but-for cause of the FTC's CID." The FTC sought a stay from the D.C. Circuit, which FIRE opposed in a brief supporting Media Matters. In September, the appeals court declined to issue a stay, saying the FTC "has not shown a strong likelihood of success given the unique and (thus far) undisputed facts of this case." Media Matters, unlike NewsGuard, has a clear ideological agenda. But as NewsGuard emphasizes, a speaker's biaswhether explicit or inferred, actual or imagineddoes not affect his protection under the First Amendment. "While the FTC has jurisdiction over unfair competition in commerce and agreements that unreasonably restrain trade, here it is brazenly using its power not for any issue concerning trade or commerce, but rather to censor speech," NewsGuard says. "And it has done so simply out of disagreement with NewsGuard's First Amendment-protected journalistic judgments about the reliability of news sources." FIRE's Corn-Revere has a warning for conservatives who might be inclined to support the FTC's campaign against NewsGuard because they think the commission is on their side. "Disagreement over news coverage is precisely the kind of expression the First Amendment protects," he says. "If the government, regardless of the party in charge, can use its levers of power to punish an organization over its coverage, there's no reason it can't do the same to pursue other news organizations that it disfavors." The post A First Amendment Lawsuit Challenges FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson's Vendetta Against NewsGuard appeared first on Reason.com. COLUMBIA, S.C., Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunmed | Your CBD Store owners in South Carolina are calling on legislators to reject Bill H.3429, which proposes a ban on consumable hemp products. This legislation threatens not only to limit consumer access but is expected to inflict serious economic harm across the state. According to industry estimates, the proposed ban could lead to the closure of approximately 1,800 businesses and the loss of around 3,500 jobs, significantly impacting communities statewide. In addition to the devastating job losses, the economic fallout from this Bill could result in an estimated $1.5 billion in hemp-related in state and local tax revenue loss. This figure does not even account for the broader ripple effects on local cities, counties, and communities that benefit from the presence of hemp businesses. These impacts range from reduced local tax revenues to diminished support for local services that rely on business sustainability, all while denying consumers access to products they have come to rely on for wellness and therapeutic purposes. The detrimental effects of this Bill extend far beyond economic impact. By denying consumers access to safe, tested consumable hemp products, legislators risk harming those who rely on them for everyday wellness needs. This situation not only threatens individual health and wellness but also contradicts the principles of consumer choice and access to safe products. Sunmed | Your CBD Store owners urge South Carolina legislators to consider the significant negative consequences of Bill H.3429 and to support reasonable regulatory frameworks that prioritize consumer safety while preserving access to necessary products. Contact: Patrick Shatzer Sunmed | Your CBD Store [email protected] About Sunmed | Your CBD Store Sunmed | Your CBD Store, an affiliate of Sunflora, Inc., is the largest hemp retailer in the United States and the exclusive home of award-winning, hemp-derived Sunmed products. With over 210+ locations nationwide across 35 states, the brand provides a premium in-store experience, offering access to more than 150 non-pharmaceutical wellness formulas, including clinically proven sleep gummies, pain relief topicals, USDA-certified organic oil tinctures, and CBD products for pets. Through in-store education, community involvement, and pioneering clinical research, Sunmed strives to empower modern wellness and enhance lives with natural, science-backed products. Learn more at getsunmed.com SOURCE Sunmed A sign stands outside the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., June 22, 2025. Photo: Andrew Rice / The Center Square (The Center Square) A Georgia man who threatened to "put a bullet" in President Donald Trump's head will serve three years and five months in a federal prison. Jauan Rashun Porter of Rome, Ga., threatened to kill the president and federal agents if they came to his door in a series of posts on a TikTok livestream, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia. Im gonna kill Donald Trump. Im gonna put a 7.62 bullet inside his forehead. Im gonna watch him bleed out and Im gonna watch him die. Imma load up a rifle [and] sit inside . . . an abandoned building . . . and when he approaches the rally . . . Im gonna put one . . . if not the face then . . . in his chest," Porter wrote on the social media app in July 2025, according to the department. Porter was arrested in August 2025. U.S. Secret Service agents, Floyd County police officers and Georgia probation officers found pipes, pistol ammunition, and the explosive Tannerite when they searched Porter's home, but did not find a gun, according to a release. Porter was on probation for domestic violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon when he was arrested, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Other convictions include two for terroristic threats and acts and one for an unlawful act of violence in a penal institution. Threatening to kill the President of the United States is an abhorrent crime that cannot be tolerated, said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. Because the Constitution affords no protection to political violence, we will continue to work closely with our federal partners to identify and prosecute criminals who make such threats. Porter pleaded guilty in October to one count of transmitting interstate threats. In addition to the prison sentence ordered by U.S. District Judge William M. Ray II, Porter will serve three years of supervised release. Bishnu Kumari Gurung, known as Himali. GoFundMe NEED TO KNOW A 53-year-old grandmother died after a vehicle plowed into a house in Australia while she was asleep on Feb. 6 The woman had arrived three days earlier from Nepal to visit family The alleged driver has since been charged with manslaughter and criminal damage, according to reports A 53-year-old grandma was killed after a vehicle crashed into a house in southwest Australia while she was asleep. On Friday, Feb. 6, around 11:40 p.m. local time, Bishnu Kumari Gurung was asleep in her daughters home in Perth, the capital of Western Australia, when a vehicle careened off the road and smashed into the Rivervale residence, 9 News, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and The West Australian reported. Gurung, who had arrived from Nepal three days earlier, died at the scene, according to the outlets. The alleged driver of what police identified as a Ford Falcon, 36-year-old Rhyse Hawkins, has since been charged with manslaughter and criminal damage, the ABC and The West Australian reported. His next court appearance is set for Wednesday, Feb. 18, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The Western Australia Police Force and the Coroner's Court of Western Australia did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs requests for comment. Following the tragic incident, the womans daughter, Nisha Gurung, said her moms death feels like a bad dream, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. "She was sleeping in a bed the best, safest place in the world," the daughter said, according to the outlet. She came here to share memories and love [with] us. Nisha added, "We are very broken. There are no words to express my feelings." Bishnu, who went by the name of Himali, had traveled from Nepal to spend time with her grandson, the ABC reported. Now, the family is hoping for justice. In a GoFundMe page created to help cover funeral expenses, Himali is described as a truly remarkable woman. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. She always put others before herself and lived her life with compassion and generosity, wrote the organizer, who did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. She was the heart and soul of our family, our greatest source of strength, comfort, and laughter. The loved one added that Himalis death has left an unimaginable void in our lives that words can hardly express. Read the original article on People Steam rises from storage tanks at an oil refinery facility. Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels (The Center Square) The Great Lakes Tunnel Project is one step closer to making its way out of regulatory limbo following the release of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers final Environmental Impact Statement. That report addressed the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project and will be used by the Corps to help inform its official Record of Decision and federal permits. That decision will be announced at some point in the next month, following a 30-day period of public review. This is just the latest chapter in an ongoing legal saga that has haunted the Great Lakes Tunnel Project for over half a decade first starting in 2018. The proposed changes would move a section of the pipeline into a tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac, which is the 4-mile wide waterway connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, dividing Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The pipeline currently lies on the bottom of the Straits. The transmission line is owned by Canadian company Enbridge and goes 645 miles from Superior, Wis., through the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan to Sarnia, Ontario. The 72-year-old pipeline currently moves more than 500,000 barrels of oil and natural gas liquids daily. Enbridge argues that the upgrades will make Line 5 more reliable, while protecting the integrity of the gas supply chain to Michigan. The report considered many different aspects of the project, including geologic resources, water resources, biological resources, cultural resources, air quality, transportation, and more. In many of those categories, the report found short-term, detrimental impacts but long-term, beneficial impacts. Ryan Duffy, a spokesperson for Enbridge, told TCS in a statement that this is real progress for the project. The release . . . is a true milestone and reflects nearly six years of rigorous review by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Duffy said. The Army Corps review has been thorough, transparent, and science driven. This final EIS incorporates extensive study and meaningful input from stakeholders across Michigan and the Great Lakes region. An EIS is the highest standard of federal environmental review and the Corps detailed work underscores their careful and methodical approach to minimizing environmental and community impacts, an objective we strongly support and share. Multiple Native American tribal nations and climate groups have been challenging the project for years, joining Democrats in calling for the complete closure of Line 5. Earthjustice, the nations largest nonprofit public interest environmental law organization, and the Native American Rights Fund are currently representing those groups in court in a couple different lawsuits related to the Great Lakes Tunnel Project and Line 5. One of those lawsuits is in the U.S. Supreme Court, while the other is before the Michigan Supreme court. In an exclusive interview with TCS, Senior Attorney for Earthjustice Julie Goodwin responded to Duffys statement. It's such a momentous decision, she said. The tunnel will be a nightmare for over six yearswith increased traffic, increased air pollution, increased heavy equipment that will destroy views, displace wildlife, interrupt tourism dollars. All the things that Michiganders love about up north are at the crosshairs of this construction project. Policymakers, experts, and advocates have been split on the project, which is currently being expedited as a result of President Donald Trumps day-one executive order declaring a national energy emergency. Under that order, Trump said that to solve high prices and remedy the numerous problems with America's energy infrastructure, the delivery of energy infrastructure must be expedited and the nation's energy supply facilitated to the fullest extent possible. Before that order, Democrats had slow-rolled the project for years. In a 2021 press release, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, called for the complete closure of Line 5. So long as oil is flowing through the pipelines, there is a very real threat of a catastrophic oil spill in the Great Lakes, Whitmer said. I will continue to fight to get the pipelines out of the water. Duffy said Enbridge is aware of these concerns. Enbridge remains fully committed to protecting the Great Lakes, the regions natural and cultural resources, and the communities along the waterfront. That commitment continues to guide our work to make an already safe pipeline even safer at the Straits of Mackinac, Duffy said. We look forward to the completion of this process, a permit decision from the USACE, and the opportunity to advance this critical infrastructure project. In addition to environmental concerns, opponents of the pipeline also cite concerns from tribal governments. Goodwin detailed those concerns and gave a reminder that the Environmental Impact Statement is far from the last step towards breaking ground on the project. The Corps Record of Decision will be released in March and, even then, Enbridge still needs Michigans approval, she said. That puts all eyes on Governor Whitmer and what kind of decision she will make. While Goodwin said she is unsure of what that decision will be, she is hopeful Whitmer and the other state departments involved in the decision and permitting will side against Enbridge. Gov. Whitmer has two choices: She can give to the Trump administration's agenda and their friends in the oil industry, or she can stand up for Michigan and protect the Great Lakes, Goodwin said. Michigan business leaders applauded the release of the EIS as another step towards approval. The progress being made by the Army Corps is exciting, and its going to mean a lot for energy affordability across Michigan, said Brent Pilarski, business manager for the Michigan Laborers District Council. Building the tunnel means jobs, great wages, and affordable energy. Itll make a safe pipeline even safer, too. There arent many issues in Michigan with such overwhelming public support. Lets get these permits and lets get to work. County of Maui Hawaii is essentially shut down today as heavy rain and brutal winds hit the islands, causing thousands to lose power and raising concerns about dangerous flash flooding. Gov. Josh Green announced on Sunday that all public schools, state offices, courthouses and the state legislature would be closed Monday. All University of Hawaii campuses are also closed. Weather.com meteorologist Jennifer Gray says Hawaii is getting hit with a little bit of everything right now. She explains that the combination of a stalled front and an area of low pressure west of the island chain is providing the fuel for these conditions. Winds could gust as high as 60-70 mph through Monday, and we could see flooding as well. Snowfall is also expected across the higher elevations on the Big Island where 10-16 inches of snow is possible. Gray said. In a news conference, the governor said one of his main concerns is the danger of high winds on roads, adding that landslides are a major worry. (MORE: Warmer Temps For Millions This Week) We had one of our staff see a tree fall right on a power line right in front of her this morning, we just want to make sure everybody is very safe, Green said Sunday. Early Monday, more than 4,000 customers were without electricity, according to PowerOutage.us. A social media post from Hawaiian Electric showed crews working to repair downed power poles on Sunday. Residents are being urged to stay off the roads today. Parks and camping areas have also been closed. Flash flooding was already reported on Sunday. Were looking at very intense rainfall rates, its not so much the amount of rain that comes down but how quickly it comes down as well, said John Bravender with the National Weather Service in Honolulu. (MORE: Police Save Three From Icy Waters) County of Maui The governor also issued an emergency proclamation that mobilizes state resources for response efforts, including Hawaiis National Guard. That proclamation is in effect at least through Wednesday. Gray said conditions should begin to improve on Tuesday, however unsettled weather should last through mid week. Winter storms still have a talent for humbling the United States, even in an era of satellites and instant alerts. In January 2026, Winter Storm Fern pushed snow, ice, and dangerous wind chills across more than 30 states, reviving bitter memories. As people look forward to months of sharing tales of survival and solidarity, we analyze ten storms from the past century that stand out for their scale, impact, and consequences. The Armistice Day Blizzard of 1940 Credit: Wikimedia Commons This storm hit the Upper Midwest on November 11. One hunter who got stranded during the blizzard said telephone poles were the only things visible above the snow. Over one million turkeys died, and the total death toll reached around 150. Forecasting operations relocated from major cities and became more localized, helping communities receive accurate warnings. The Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 Credit: Weather Underground This Thanksgiving weekend storm affected 22 states and earned a reputation as a meteorological benchmark. Snow piled up to 62 inches in parts of West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Winds reached 160 miles per hour, snapping trees and power lines. Nearly one million customers lost electricity, and at least 383 people died. The Chicago Blizzard of 1967 Credit: Wikipedia On January 26 and 27, Chicago witnessed 23 inches of snow as wind gusts hit 53 miles per hour. What made this storm particularly nasty was the timing. Days earlier, temperatures had been warm and pleasant before the sudden snow dump. Hundreds of students spent the night sleeping at school because buses couldn't get them home. The Blizzard of 1978 Credit: Wikipedia The Blizzard of 1978 slammed Ohio and much of the Great Lakes with extreme cold and relentless snow. The National Weather Service later described it as a once-in-a-lifetime storm and a benchmark for future winter events in the region. Wind chills dropped to minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Cincinnati recorded seven inches of new snowfall on top of nearly 14 inches already on the ground. The storm caused an estimated $2 billion in damage nationwide and led to 70 deaths. The Storm of the Century, 1993 Credit: Wikipedia This March monster stretched from Florida to Maine, touching more than 100 million people. Snow fell along the Gulf Coast, while Appalachian peaks endured hurricane-force winds near 100 miles per hour. NOAA later rated it a rare Category 5 winter storm. Syracuse logged nearly 43 inches of snow. Coast Guard crews on rescue operations described Atlantic swells as chaotic and akin to washing-machine turbulence. The Blizzard of 1996 Credit: Wikipedia President Bill Clinton declared nine states, plus D.C., as disaster areas during this five-day nightmare. Residents in several states witnessed snowstorms that were around 20 to 30 inches deep. "The Washington Post" reported that forecasters got fooled when the snow paused long enough for some to declare it over. Then 40 mph winds roared back with more snow. The final death toll reached 154. The Presidents' Day Storm of 2003 Credit: Youtube A rainstorm swept into the Northeast in mid-February and collided with arctic air. The result? Three days of chaos, including Presidents' Day itself. Maryland suffered snowstorms that made a state highway supervisor say the landscape looked "more like Siberia than Maryland." Boston broke its single-day snowfall record with 27.5 inches in just 24 hours. Flights got canceled, and around 28 people died. Snowmageddon, 2010 Credit: Wikipedia Snowmageddon brought Washington, D.C., to a halt on February 5 and 6, 2010. Snow fell for nearly 30 hours, dropping more than 32 inches of heavy, wet snow at Dulles Airport. The weight triggered widespread power outages and caused churches and an airport hangar to collapse. Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania declared states of emergency. City agencies later expanded snow-removal fleets after the storm exposed major gaps in preparedness. The "Snovember" Storm of 2014 Credit: Youtube Buffalo got buried under more than seven feet of snow starting on November 17. Highways shut down, and over 10 people died. The Weather Channel reported that Lake Erie worsened the situation because it remained relatively warm while cold air swept in from the north. That temperature clash created an ungodly amount of snow. Temperatures in many US states dropped below freezing at some point during the storm. The Polar Vortex of 2019 Credit: Instagram The Polar Vortex of 2019 sent Arctic air across North America in late January, killing 21 people and breaking temperature records throughout the Midwest. Rockford, Illinois, fell to minus 31 degrees Fahrenheit, while wind chills in MinneapolisSt. Paul dropped to around minus 55. Hospitals treated hundreds of cases of frostbite and hypothermia. The event showed that extreme cold alone can cause a major winter disaster without heavy snowfall. Memorial that caught fire in Crans-Montana, Switzerland Cantonale Valaisanne Police/Instagram NEED TO KNOW A memorial for the 41 people who died in a nightclub blaze during a New Year's Eve celebration in Switzerland caught fire The memorial was located in Crans-Montana near the Le Constellation nightclub, where the Jan. 1 tragedy occurred Authorities said the fire was quickly contained thanks to swift intervention by emergency services A memorial for the 41 people who died in a nightclub blaze during a New Year's Eve celebration in Switzerland caught fire. The fire began shortly before 6 a.m. local time on Sunday, Feb. 8, the Valais Cantonal Police (VCP) said in a translated news release. The memorial was located in Crans-Montana near the Le Constellation nightclub, where the Jan. 1 tragedy occurred. It was made up of a tent full of flowers, candles and tribute notes. Authorities said the fire was quickly contained thanks to swift intervention by emergency services. Police do not believe that the fire was set intentionally, but was rather caused by candles placed on a table in the center of the memorial," the news release said. No injuries were reported. However, a number of items were damaged in the fire. A book of condolences was recovered, and the memorial is already being rebuilt, authorities said. Burned memorial for the 41 people who died during a New Year's celebration in Switzerland Cantonale Valaisanne Police/Instagram The VCP did not immediately respond to PEOPLE'S request for comment on Feb. 8. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The memorial commemorated the victims of the deadly fire that broke out at Le Constellation at around 1:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, during a packed New Years celebration. Memorial for the 41 people who died in New Year's fire in Switzerland MAXIME SCHMID / AFP via Getty Authorities said sparklers placed on top of champagne bottles likely caused the Jan. 1 blaze. They believe the sparks came into contact with soundproofing foam on the ceiling of the club, according to French newspaper Le Parisien. A service door in the club was also reportedly locked, which prevented more people from escaping, police said. In addition to the 41 people killed, more than 100 people were injured during the deadly incident. The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now! Jacques and Jessica Moretti, the husband and wife who own the club, are currently facing charges of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence and arson by negligence, according to Le Parisien. Read the original article on People The measures would make it easier for Jewish settlers to take over Palestinian land [Reuters] Palestinians, Arab countries, Israeli anti-occupation groups and the UK have condemned new steps approved by Israel's security cabinet for the occupied West Bank, saying they amount to de facto annexation. Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the moves that would make it easier for Jewish settlers to take over Palestinian land. "We will continue to kill the idea of a Palestinian state," he said. All settlements are seen as illegal under international law. The measures - which are expected to be signed off by Israel's top military commander for the West Bank - aim to increase Israeli control over the territory in terms of property law, planning, licensing and enforcement. They were announced three days ahead of a meeting between the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and US President Donald Trump in Washington. Last year, settlements in the West Bank expanded at their fastest rate since monitoring began, the United Nations (UN) has said. The new Israeli measures include cancelling a decades-old prohibition on the direct sale of West Bank land to Jews and declassifying local land registry records. Up to now, settlers could only buy homes from registered companies on land controlled by Israel's government. Israeli ministers presented the change as "a step that will increase transparency and facilitate land redemption". Israel's foreign ministry later said it corrected a "racist distortion" that "discriminated against Jews, Americans, Europeans, and anyone who is not Arab regarding real estate purchases in Judea and Samaria". The cabinet also decided to repeal a legal requirement for a transaction permit to complete any purchase of real estate, thereby reducing oversight meant to prevent fraud. Palestinians said they feared the changes would lead to more pressure on individuals to sell, as well as acts of forgery and deceit. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas - who heads the Palestinian Authority (PA), governing parts of the West Bank - called the measures "dangerous" and an "open Israeli attempt to legalise settlement expansion, land confiscation and the demolition of Palestinian properties, even in areas under Palestinian sovereignty". He called for the US and UN Security Council to intervene immediately. The Israeli NGO Peace Now said the cabinet's decision risked toppling the PA and involved cancelling agreements and imposing de facto annexation. It accused the Israeli government of "breaking every possible barrier on the path to massive land theft in the West Bank". The UK said it "strongly condemned" the move and called on Israel to reverse the decision, saying "any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unacceptable and would be inconsistent with international law". The foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar described the announcement as "accelerating attempts at its illegal annexation and the displacement of the Palestinian people". Their statement "warned against the continued expansionist Israeli policies and illegal measures pursued by the Israeli government in the occupied West Bank, which fuel violence and conflict in the region". The Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, also known as the Ibrahimi Mosque, is the second holiest site in Judaism and the fourth in Islam [Reuters] With rights to the land at the heart of the Israel-Palestinian conflict, land sales to settlers are a murky business often involving middlemen. They are considered as treason by the PA and are therefore technically punishable by death, although convicted individuals are typically given jail terms. Other controversial steps announced by Smotrich, who has ministerial responsibility for settlement policies, and the Defence Minister, Israel Katz, include transferring building licensing at an important religious site and sensitive areas nearby in the volatile city of Hebron solely to Israeli authorities. The Cave of the Patriarchs - also known as the Ibrahimi Mosque - is revered by Jews, Muslims and Christians as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob's burial place. It is the second holiest site in Judaism and the fourth in Islam. Israeli bodies would also be given oversight and enforcement powers for environmental and archaeological matters in PA-administered areas. As well, a committee would be revived to allow the State of Israel to make "proactive" land purchases in the West Bank billed as "a step designed to secure land reserves for settlement for generations to come". In the wake of the 1993 Oslo Accords, a breakthrough peace agreement, the newly created PA was given full control over Palestinian urban areas - about 20% of the territory - known as Area A. In Area B, a similar percentage, the PA had only administrative control, while Israel kept its hold on security. Israel retained full security and administrative control of 60% of the West Bank, where settlements are located, known as Area C. More than 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the occupied West Bank and Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem, territories captured by Israel from Jordan in the 1967 Middle East War. Those lands are wanted by Palestinians for their hoped-for independent state along with the Gaza Strip. The Trump administration has ruled out Israeli annexation of the West Bank but has not sought to check Israel's accelerated settlement construction. Responding to the latest move, a White House official reiterated the US' opposition to annexation, saying: "A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration's goal to achieve peace in the region". Smotrich, a settler who heads a pro-settler party, has vowed to double the settler population in the West Bank. In December, Israel's cabinet approved a proposal for 19 new settlements. Israel is also preparing to start construction of a contentious settlement project near Jerusalem, known as E1, which would effectively sever the northern and southern West Bank. According to the UN, a record number of more than 37,000 Palestinians were displaced in 2025 alone - a year that it says also saw record-high levels of Israeli settler violence. Netanyahu's governing coalition includes many pro-settler members who want Israel to annex the West Bank, to which they claim religious and historic ties. The prime minister, who faces an election later this year, has declared he would never countenance the creation of a Palestinian state, which he said would be a security threat for his country. In 2024, the International Court of Justice - the UN's highest court - issued a non-binding advisory opinion that Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories was illegal and should end. FILE PHOTO: A surveillance camera sits outside of Delaney Hall, a 1,000-person detention center operated by private prison company GEO Group for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark, New Jersey, U.S., May 10, 2025. REUTERS/Bing Guan/File Photo By Ross Kerber Feb 9 (Reuters) - A set of Catholic investors said on Monday private-prison operator GEO Group has rejected a shareholder vote designed to shed light on alleged human rights violations in its operation of ICE detention facilities as part of U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. The government contractor has become one of the biggest benefactors in Trump's expansion of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, including operating a fast-growing detention center in Southern California. Complaints of poor treatment, including dismal sleeping conditions and a lack of fresh air at facilities run by GEO and others, have sparked protests against the administration as it ramps up detentions and pushes for mass deportations. A group of social activist investors led by Jesuit priests said GEO rejected a proposed shareholder vote to review its human-rights conduct, ended talks on facility visits and reduced its reporting on human rights. "The fact that the company isn't transparent with us, that raises red flags. Does it have something to hide?" asked Bryan Pham, a Jesuit priest who leads the investors' talks with GEO. GEO said in an emailed statement that it "has had ongoing engagements with a broad group of shareholders for several decades. Our companys disclosures are constantly evolving, informed by these long-standing broad shareholder engagements, and are developed in compliance with our legal obligations as a federal government contractor." GEO, based in Boca Raton, Florida, is one of the largest operators of detention centers for ICE, which accounted for 41.5% of GEO's 2024 revenue. Adam Sawyer, director of research for Relevant Research, which runs the ICE Detention Reports website, says GEO runs the fourth- and fifth-largest ICE facilities: one in South Texas housing about 1,790 and one in Adelanto, California, housing some 1,784 people, as of last month. A year earlier, in January 2025, the South Texas facility held 1,664 people and the one in Adelanto held just 2 people, Sawyer said. CALL FOR A RISK REPORT The Catholic investors led by the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus hold as little as $53,000 of GEO's shares, according to disclosures. But they've had an outsized influence over larger investors, winning 88% of shareholder support on a vote that pressed GEO to issue an annual human rights report in 2019. In November, the priests submitted a shareholder proposal that would require GEO to disclose "whether its services contribute to violations of international human rights law and expose the company to material risks." The filers mentioned a University of Washington report that detainees have been sent from a GEO-run facility in Tacoma, Washington, to the controversial CECOT mega-prison in El Salvador. A GEO unit buses detainees to deportation flights, the report states. In a December 30 letter seen by Reuters, a GEO attorney told regulators the proponents' claims were "false and misleading" and that it would not allow shareholders to vote on the disclosure proposal from the priest group. "The entire theme and premise of the Proposal is that the Company is engaging in enforced disappearances in violation of international human rights law" through its contracts, GEO attorney Esther Moreno of the Akerman law firm said in the letter. The services "are provided in compliance with U.S. federal immigration law," Moreno said. In the 2019 case, GEO asked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for permission to skip the shareholder vote, a common corporate practice. The agency, under Trump, put new policies in place in November, making it easier for companies to skip such votes without waiting for regulators' blessing, enabling GEO to forgo the vote. Pham said GEO's claims don't match the resolution's language since it only seeks more information, and said GEO has cut back its human rights reporting. GEO, he said, owes more explanation about its treatment of detainees like Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish graduate student arrested in Massachusetts in March over an editorial she co-wrote in the Tufts University student newspaper in 2024 supporting Palestinians in Israel's war in Gaza. In a July Vanity Fair article, Ozturk described being held for 45 days at a GEO facility in Louisiana deprived of sleep and fresh air. GEO did not directly address Pham's concerns. A representative said GEO "plays no role" in granting ICE facility access and that it offers medical care and legal advice. We are proud of the role our company has played for 40 years to support the law enforcement mission of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement," GEO said. (Reporting by Ross Kerber; Editing by Dawn Kopecki and Aurora Ellis) Prince William and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace NEED TO KNOW Prince William arrived in Saudi Arabia on Feb. 9, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman The crown prince remains a controversial figure over Saudi Arabias human rights record and has faced international scrutiny following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi Prince William and other world leaders, including U.S. presidents, maintain a relationship with Saudi Arabia as a trade and military ally Prince William arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, Feb. 9, for the start of a three-day visit that included a meeting with one of the worlds most controversial royal figures, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. During the first day of his diplomatic visit, the Prince of Wales, 43, met with the Saudi crown prince, 40, touring At-Turaif a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Diriyah before sharing a private dinner. Mohammed bin Salman is both the heir apparent to the Saudi throne and the countrys prime minister. He has remained under sustained international scrutiny over Saudi Arabias human rights record, as well as following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Williams visit was made at the request of the U.K. government and reflects his expanding responsibilities as heir to the throne. In his role as Prince of Wales, he undertakes official diplomatic engagements on behalf of the Crown a constitutional duty that requires political neutrality, regardless of personal views. ITV reported from Saudi Arabia that any concerns he has about the rulers of this country will be raised "privately." According to the outlet, British diplomats say the crown prince does accept alternative points of view from foreign governments and individuals provided it's done privately. Public concerns, they say, could risk a setback in relations. Despite ongoing controversy, Prince William like other world leaders, including U.S. presidents continues to engage with Saudi leadership, as the kingdom remains a key trade and military ally. Prince William tours a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, on Feb. 9, 2026 Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace A 2023 report by the U.S. Department of State cited significant human rights issues in Saudi Arabia, including unlawful and politically-motivated killings, restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, oppression and violence against women and LGBTQ+ individuals, mistreatment of migrant workers and unfair elections. Khashoggi, a Saudi dissident and Washington Post columnist, was also the editor of the progressive Saudi newspaper Al Watan. He fled Saudi Arabia in 2017 amid mounting pressure from the government over his criticism of the king, the crown prince and the war in Yemen. In October 2018, Khashoggi entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, seeking promised documents related to his recent marriage. He never emerged, and his body was never recovered. In December 2018, a C.I.A. investigation concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had ordered Khashoggis killing a claim the royal has repeatedly denied. Ahead of the crown princes November 2025 meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Khashoggis widow, Hanan Elatr-Khashoggi, wrote a letter to Trump, pleading for his help in "securing justice and accountability for the murder of my husband." Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with President Donald Trump at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025 Win McNamee/Getty When the two leaders later spoke with reporters, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman again disavowed any role in the assassination. "It's really painful to hear anyone that been losing his life for, you know, no real purpose or nothing illegal," he said. "And it's been painful for us in Saudi Arabia. We did all the right steps of investigation, et cetera, in Saudi Arabia, and we even improved our system to be sure that nothing [happens] like that. And it's painful and it's a huge mistake, and we are doing our best that this doesn't happen again." Trumps relationship with the Saudi royal family has also drawn scrutiny due to his familys business dealings in the kingdom. Less than two months after the crown princes visit to Washington, D.C., the Trump Organization announced expanded real estate plans in Saudi Arabia totaling $10 billion. President Joe Biden likewise faced criticism for his July 2022 meeting with Saudi leadership, during which he was photographed fist-bumping the crown prince despite previously saying he would not meet with him during the trip. Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Prince William is expected to continue diplomatic discussions with Saudi leadership during his visit, which underscores his increasingly prominent role on the global stage as Prince of Wales. The two men have met before, including alongside Williams father, King Charles, during the crown princes visit to London in March 2018 months before Khashoggis death. Read the original article on People Editor's Note: Law enforcement has asked anyone with information to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov, the Pima County Sheriff's Department (520-351-4900) or 88-CRIME. Savannah Guthrie has released a fourth video addressing the apparent abduction of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. In a video posted Feb. 9 on Instagram, the "Today" anchor said she wanted to share "a few thoughts as we enter into another week of this nightmare." "We believe our mom is still out there," she said. "We need your help. Law enforcement is working tirelessly, around the clock trying to bring her home, trying to find her. She was taken, and we don't know where, and we need your help." Guthrie asked followers, even though those who do not live in Tucson, to contact law enforcement "if you see anything, if you hear anything, if there's anything at all that seems strange to you," adding, "We are at an hour of desperation, and we need your help." Nancy Guthrie kidnapping suspect seen in new photos as search continues "Today" anchor Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother Nancy Guthrie was reported missing in February 2026. See photos of the mother-daughter duo together through the years on NBC and beyond. Here, they're pictured in an undated photograph. Arizona officials say they are investigating Nancy Guthrie's disappearance as a "crime." She also thanked supporters for their prayers, saying she and her family "believe that, somehow, someway," that their mom "is feeling these prayers, and that God is lifting her even in this moment and in this darkest place." Nancy Guthrie was reported missing from her home outside of Tucson, Arizona, on Sunday, Feb. 1, and has not been seen since the previous evening. Authorities in Arizona have said they believe Guthrie was taken from her home against her will, but no suspects or persons of interest have been identified. Several media outlets have received purported ransom notes apparently connected to Guthrie's disappearance. On Feb. 5, the FBI said it was investigating a note that included two deadlines: one on Feb. 5 and another on Feb. 9. Authorities also confirmed on Feb. 6. that they were investigating a "new message regarding Nancy Guthrie." Nancy Guthrie kidnapping suspect seen in new photos as search continues Today show host Savannah Guthries 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, was seemingly abducted from her home outside Tucson, Arizona, in the early hours of Feb. 1, 2026. Authorities released photos and videos on Feb. 10, of a potential suspect who was caught tampering with a camera on her front door on the morning of her disappearance. The Guthrie family has so far released three videos on social media, in which they addressed their mother's alleged kidnapper. In the first video, posted on Feb. 4, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings said they were "ready to talk" with the person behind the ransom notes. "However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated," Savannah Guthrie said. "We need to know without a doubt that she's alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us." A second video, posted on Feb. 5, featured only Savannah's brother Camron Guthrie, who said the family was still "waiting for contact" from their mother's kidnapper. "Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you," he said in the short message. "We haven't heard anything directly. We need you to reach out, and we need a way to communicate with you so that we can move forward." Police said they still "don't know where" Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" anchor Savannah Guthrie, is. In a third video, posted Feb. 7, Savannah Guthrie again spoke alongside her brother and sister. This video was posted one day after authorities said they were inspecting a "new message regarding Nancy Guthrie." No details about this latest message have been disclosed. Authorities also have not said if this message was written by the same person behind the previous notes. "We received your message and we understand," Savannah Guthrie said in the Feb. 7 video. "We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay." FBI special agent in charge Heith Janke previously confirmed that the FBI consulted with the Guthrie family on the release of their original video addressing their mother's kidnapper. "While we advise and recommend from a law enforcement perspective, any action taken on any ransom is ultimately decided by the family," he said in a Feb. 5 briefing, adding that it's the "family's decision of what they film and what they put out." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Savannah Guthrie mom missing, pleads for return in new video TOKYO, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SwitchBot, a leading provider of AI-enabled embodied home robotics systems, today announced the launch of SwitchBot AI Hub, the world's first local home AI agent supporting OpenClaw, an open-source autonomous AI agent framework. SwitchBot AI Hub x OpenClaw Demo Video Speed Speed SwitchBot AI Hub Combining edge AI computing, Vision-Language Models (VLM), and unified smart home control in a single hub, AI Hub understands real-world events through connected cameras, enables AI-powered automations, and serves as a local NVR system with Frigate. Using it together with OpenClaw, users can now control devices, access AI models, and manage home automation naturally through everyday chat apps. Official support for running OpenClaw on SwitchBot AI Hub is scheduled to roll out by the end of February, while expanded access to SwitchBot Skills via OpenClaw is expected to roll out by the end of March. First Local Home AI Agent Supporting OpenClaw Unlike cloud or PC-based OpenClaw deployment, SwitchBot AI Hub offers authentic OpenClaw support for always-on AI operation in a more affordable and convenient way. Starting from the end of February, users will be able to run OpenClaw directly on SwitchBot AI Hub, providing an easier and cost-effective solution compared to PC-based deployments. After setup is completed, users can access a range of Large-Language AI models via an OpenClaw bot contact in up to 50 chat apps, including WhatsApp, iMessage, and Discord. Meanwhile, OpenClaw can also access smart home devices across multiple platforms, including Home Assistant, Apple Home, and Google Home, through relevant Skills. By the end of March, users will be able to access SwitchBot Skills through OpenClaw, using chat apps to manage devices connected to AI Hub and home automations created on AI Hub, both locally and through the Vision-Language Model (VLM). Running independently on personal devices, AI Hub provides a dedicated, isolated environment for AI execution, helping safeguard personal data while reducing deployment time and system overhead. First Edge Hub Equipped with VLM On its own, SwitchBot AI Hub functions as an intelligent edge hub that combines human-like visual understanding, AI automation, and privacy-first video management. Working with SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam 2K/3K Plus, SwitchBot Smart Video Doorbell, or any third-party RTSP cameras, AI Hub uses Vision-Language Models (VLM) to interpret real-world events, generate summaries, enable AI search through video footage, deliver daily home reports, and provide more accurate alerts. These AI summaries can also be used as automation triggers, allowing users to create complex home automations in seconds and tailor responses for scenarios such as security, family care, and pet care. In addition, AI Hub integrates a local NVR system powered by Frigate, supporting up to eight cameras, on-device facial recognition, free local video recording, single-screen whole-home monitoring, and expandable local storage up to 16TB. As SwitchBot's first edge hub, it also connects with over 100 SwitchBot devices, supports Matter bridging for up to 30 SwitchBot products, dual-band Wi-Fi, extended Bluetooth coverage, faster local automation for Bluetooth products, and optional Home Assistant installation, providing a stable, responsive foundation for whole-home intelligence. The Ultimate Smart Home Automation with AI Hub and OpenClaw When combined with OpenClaw, SwitchBot AI Hub will enable natural, conversational control over the smart home, allowing users to further interact with their home environment through everyday language. Users can ask OpenClaw about home status, such as temperature, humidity, or air quality, view footage from cameras connected to AI Hub, control individual devices like lights or air conditioners, and initiate home automation smart scenes. These commands can apply not only to devices directly connected to AI Hub, but also to devices and automations already configured across other smart home platforms that OpenClaw has access to. Beyond responding to user requests, OpenClaw can proactively assist users by remembering users' past behaviours and habits, analyzing the data it captures through the lens of this memory, and surface timely suggestions or prompt users to take action based on the insights. For example, when a SwitchBot Smart Video Doorbell detects someone at the door, AI Hub can capture the event and send an image through OpenClaw in the users' common chat apps, allowing the user to decide whether to remotely unlock the door for the person at the door. Through this combination of memory, perception, analysis, and execution, SwitchBot AI Hub and OpenClaw work together to deliver a more intelligent, responsive, and user-centric smart home experience. Pricing & Availability SwitchBot AI Hub is already available through the SwitchBot Official Website , with an MSRP of USD 259.99 / CAD 299.99 / GBP 259.99 / EUR 259.99. Official OpenClaw support will be enabled by the end of February via software updates. For more information, visit SwitchBot's official website and follow SwitchBot on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube . Media Kit: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/2/folders/14YPDkMZC2pJQmV2oJ3inXiYkgJGoTy70 SOURCE SwitchBot Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro delivers his budget proposal before a joint session of the General Assembly in Harrisburg, Pa., Feb. 3, 2026. Photo: Commonwealth Media Services / Used with Permission (The Center Square) Positioning the commonwealth as a national leader in energy and data center development while keeping power reliable and affordable is a central goal in Gov. Josh Shapiros new budget plan. His path to get there is drawing mixed reactions, however. Speaking to a joint session of the General Assembly in Harrisburg, Shapiro said his administration has helped shield Pennsylvanians from rate increases. He then turned to his Lightning Plan as a strategy to expand generation, modernize permitting and siting, and meet growing electricity demand from large new loads like data centers. Other initiatives highlighted in the plan include tax incentives to attract investment in new, reliable energy sources; utility agreements to remove hidden fees that Shapiro estimates could save consumers over $500 million; and a push to extend price caps and reform the grid. Sen. Gene Yaw, R-Williamsport, chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, told The Center Square he agreed with the governors statement that affordability is simple supply and demand. When demand exceeds supply, price goes up, and thats exactly whats happening, he said. But Yaw said some of Shapiros proposals conflict with that logic particularly with capping electricity rates. He argues that artificially suppressing prices sends the wrong market signals, discouraging investment and stifling new supply. Yaw also pointed to what he described as 20 years of underinvestment in generation and transmission. Capacity remained largely flat while efficiency gains such as better appliances and heating systems helped keep demand manageable. Now, he said, the demand surge from EVs and data centers has created the perfect storm. In addition, gas-fired plants are retiring faster than new generation is coming online, while vast numbers of renewable energy projects remain stuck in the interconnection queue and not getting built. New technologies like battery storage show promise, Yaw added, but arent yet developed at scale. He stressed he doesnt completely blame PJM. While not perfect, he said, they have done a pretty good job acting as an air traffic controller for the grid, directing the flow of power across the region from more than 1,400 generators. Even so, he said there is no question we need more generation capacity especially dispatchable power thats available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. For Pennsylvania, Yaw said it would be the greatest thing ever to figure out how to use coal efficiently while keeping emissions down, but he believes the quickest path to added capacity is new gas-fired generation. Governor Shapiro deserves real credit for prioritizing utility costs and his advocacy within PJM, Chris DAgostino, PA policy principal for Advanced Energy United, told The Center Square. But as the Governor also acknowledged, PJM is only part of the problem. DAgostino said that even a speedy and functional PJM interconnection queue wont deliver affordable, clean power if Pennsylvania continues to face unnecessary barriers to siting and permitting new projects. He pointed to bipartisan tools that can be deployed now like virtual power plants and other flexible resources that dont go through PJMs queue at all to reduce costs, improve reliability, and put downward pressure on bills faster. Virtual power plants, or VPPs, he explained, can range from small pilots to large programs and are cheaper and faster to deploy than traditional power plants. In practice, homes in communities with devices such as rooftop solar and smart thermostats installed agree to network to a third-party aggregator, who acts like an orchestra conductor and coordinates these devices, so, from the grids perspective, they behave like one power plant during peak demand. Smart thermostats, for example, can be adjusted slightly sometimes by a degree or less to relieve grid strain, and participating customers may be paid for contributing. Legislation is required to advance VPPs though. DAgostino said clean-energy incentives are a positive step and there is an opportunity to expand advanced energy and solar-plus-storage, but he noted that only 5% of municipalities in Pennsylvania have ordinances that support utility-scale solar. If Pennsylvania is serious about solving the energy affordability crisis and staying economically competitive, we agree with the Governor on the need to pair PJM reform with aggressive action at the state level, he said. A high school student was shot and wounded by another student on Feb. 9 at a Maryland high school located in a Washington suburb, local police said. The shooting occurred at Thomas S. Wootton High School, a public school in Rockville, Maryland, an affluent city about 20 miles northwest of the nations capital. Rockville and Montgomery County police were called to the scene at about 2:15 p.m. local time and found the injured student in a school hallway. According to Montgomery County officials, the injured student was taken to a hospital and is in stable condition; police arrested the suspected shooter near the school. Police also said there is no further threat to public safety. USA TODAY has reached out to authorities for more information. This is a developing story that will be updated. Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Maryland high school shooting. 1 injured, suspect in custody Macro close-up of a juvenile huntsman spider (Heteropoda boiei), a young tropical sparassid spider, photographed in controlled conditions, showing early developmental stage. Colombe Photographie/Shutterstock.com Quick Take A juvenile Huntsman spider was observed with a pearl necklace, which was later determined to be composed of larval mites . Juvenile Huntsman spiders are targeted by mites rather than adults because they are smaller and more vulnerable . The mite, Araneothrombium brasiliensis , consumes lymphatic fluid from its host. Araneothrombium brasiliensis, found in Brazil, is believed to be related to another larval mite, Charletonia rocciai, found in Costa Rica. Parasites have been attaching themselves to spiders for millennia. Given the large number of spiders and the wide variety of hiding places they use in habitats around the world, many of these parasites and mites are only being discovered today. One of the most recent discoveries is a spider clutching parasites, not pearls. The spider in question is a Huntsman spider, which leaves many wondering why such a large spider was not recognized as a host for parasites for so long. However, it is not the adults of the species that attract this new mite. Instead, it is the younger, more vulnerable Huntsman spiders that become prime targets for the parasitic mite. Why Do Juvenile Huntsman Spiders Have Parasites? Spiders can be found in every land habitat around the world, with the exception of Antarctica. The diversity of habitats in which over 58,600 species of spiders can live is astounding. It is also because spiders can live in hot, humid, arid, and wet environments that they are key targets for parasites. This is also true for the Huntsman spider living in Brazil. According to a study published in September 2025, Huntsman spiders were discovered by chance to have a pearl necklace of mites around their necks. As scientists examined spiders and scorpions, they observed a juvenile Huntsman spider adorned with an unknown creature. Upon further investigation, they were determined to be larval mites. The mites, known as Araneothrombium brasiliensis, are particularly attracted to juveniles of this species. This is because, unlike adult Huntsman spiders, juveniles are more susceptible to parasitism. Juvenile Huntsman spiders are prime targets for the newly discovered mite that consumes lymphatic fluid. Wright Out There/Shutterstock.com (Wright Out There/Shutterstock.com) The mites are only half a millimeter long. Because juvenile Huntsman spiders are typically around only 0.7 inches long, the mites appear large. This is especially true when they become engorged, consuming the lymphatic fluid. The mites feed by sucking lymph through the pedicel, which lies between the abdomen and the region containing the spiders eyes and mouth. It is likely that the newly discovered mites have been around for quite some time. However, because juvenile Huntsman spiders are much smaller than adults, and the mites are even smaller, seeing them with the naked eye may have been impossible. Is There a Reason the Mites Look Like Pearls? Unlike other mites that target spiders to consume their blood, these particular mites do not feed on the spiders blood at all. This is why, instead of being found on other parts of the spiders body, the mites collect around the neck. Juvenile Huntsman spiders will look like they are wearing a string of pearls when Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites attach themselves to them. Colombe Photographie/Shutterstock.com (Colombe Photographie/Shutterstock.com) The Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites are searching for lymphatic fluid. The neck is a readily accessible site for lymphatic fluid, according to Ricardo Bassini-Silva, a study co-author and researcher and curator at the Zoological Collections Laboratory of the Butantan Institute in Sao Paulo, Brazil. It is a vulnerable spot for the spiders. This is the spiders most vulnerable region since other parts have a lot of chitin, which forms an exoskeleton difficult for the mites fangs to penetrate, Bassini-Silva explains to EurekAlert!. Because of this, the mites create the appearance of a pearl necklace. Consequences for Huntsman Spiders Having Mite Pearl Necklaces The spider discovered with the mite pearl necklace was already deceased. Therefore, it is difficult to determine whether the mites would eventually have caused the spiders death before it was captured and added to the laboratory collection. It is not yet known if the Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites are deadly to juvenile Huntsman spiders. Colombe Photographie/Shutterstock.com (Colombe Photographie/Shutterstock.com) In the case of Charletonia rocciai, a mite that consumes spiders blood, the parasite does not kill spiders. Instead, it relies on spiders for sustenance until it matures. Whether these newly discovered mites function in the same manner as the Costa Rican mite discovered in 2017 remains unclear. However, both become engorged while feeding on the spider. Therefore, at the very least, spiders infested with mites are left weaker. This could increase their vulnerability and potentially shorten their life expectancy. Other Creatures May Be Affected by the Mite Larvae As scientists learn more about the Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites that feed on the lymphatic fluid of Huntsman spiders and potentially other spiders, they are not ruling out the possibility that the mites could attack other creatures as well. Silverfish belong to the order Zygentoma. Thysanoptera, which includes thrips, has also been known to be a target of Charletonia rocciai mites. Dennis Jacobsen/Shutterstock.com (Dennis Jacobsen/Shutterstock.com) If scientists examine another mite species known to attack spiders, Charletonia rocciai, they find that it targets not only spiders. Instead, according to a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Acarology, it is known to attach itself to other arthropods. Since Charletonia rocciai targets two different ordersColeoptera and Thysanoptera, which include beetles and wingless insectsit is possible that this newly discovered mite may have the capacity to do the same. The key difference between Charletonia rocciai and Araneothrombium brasiliensis is that the former feeds on blood, while the latter requires lymphatic fluid. The mite Araneothrombium brasiliensis requires lymphatic fluid. It remains unclear whether the mites require lymphatic fluid specifically from arachnids or if they can feed on the lymphatic fluid of other species. Are Parasitic Mites Deadly to Spiders? The most common parasitic mites that attach themselves to spiders consume the spiders blood in order to survive. While this does not directly kill the spider, the presence of mites can directly affect its health, making it more vulnerable than other spiders in its species to predation and other environmental factors. Mites, as seen on this spider, consume blood. It is not yet clear how lymph-consuming Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites affect the lifespan of spiders. SAI A.D.A/Shutterstock.com (SAI A.D.A/Shutterstock.com) In the case of the lymph-consuming mites, it is unclear whether spiders die from the mites or remain compromised hosts until the mites mature into adults. Once they become adults, the mites live in the soil, feeding on other creatures. The Araneothrombium brasiliensis mites on the Huntsman spider were completely engorged. Therefore, they had been feeding on their host for an extended period. Whether this killed the specimen on which scientists discovered the mites is unclear and was not disclosed by the study. After discovering the mites on the Huntsman spider, researchers believe these mites may thrive in environments such as caves and grottos, similar to the mite found in Costa Rica in 2017. This would mean these parasitic mites are far more widespread than originally believed. As a result, researchers are actively searching for live Huntsman spiders and other potential hosts with intact mites to better understand how these mites function and how they impact their hosts. The post This Spider Is Clutching Parasites, Not Pearls appeared first on A-Z Animals. Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai Party leader and prime ministerial candidate, arrives at the party headquarters on the day of the general election, in Bangkok, Thailand, February 8, 2026. REUTERS/Patipat Janthong Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai Party leader and prime ministerial candidate, arrives at the party headquarters on the day of the general election, in Bangkok, Thailand, February 8, 2026. REUTERS/Patipat Janthong By Devjyot Ghoshal BANGKOK, Feb 8 (Reuters) - Anutin Charnvirakul stood at a rally in Thailand's capital Bangkok last month and declared that his Bhumjaithai Party should be the automatic choice for any patriotic Thai in Sunday's general election. "I promise to you all that I will safeguard Thailand with my life," the 59-year-old politician said. "Just choose Bhumjaithai to guard the country, to help safeguard all of our land." The stump speech captured Anutin's strategy of riding a wave of nationalism washing through Thailand in the wake of a fierce border conflict with Cambodia - a gamble that has paid off. In preliminary results issued by Thailand's Election Commission late on Sunday, Bhumjaithai took a commanding lead over the progressive People's Party and populist Pheu Thai. "Nationalism is in the heart of everybody in the Bhumjaithai party," he told reporters as the results trickled in. "Our people have given us more than what we expected." If he is able to form a government, Anutin will become the first Thai prime minister to be voted back to office in two decades, underlining the political instability that has long plagued Southeast Asia's second-largest economy. A wily operator, once best known for championing Thailand's legalisation of cannabis in 2022, Anutin manoeuvred into the prime minister's office with a minority government following his predecessor's ouster by a court order last August. 'RETURNING POWER TO THE PEOPLE' His term began six weeks after Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire to end fierce border clashes, but the fighting resumed in early December with increased intensity, stretching the entire length of the land border between the neighbours. The conflict afforded Anutin - a conservative staunchly loyal to Thailand's influential monarchy - an opportunity to not only burnish his nationalist credentials, but also a window to seek a decisive mandate with a parliamentary majority. Late into the night on December 11, less than 100 days after he became prime minister, Anutin posted a short message on social media: "I am returning power to the people." It was a move to dissolve parliament following a disagreement with the opposition People's Party that had initially supported his premiership, triggering the snap election. HIS FATHER'S SON Anutin was born into a family with Chinese ancestry at the intersection of money and influence - twin factors that have propelled his steady rise through the constant churn of Thai politics. His father, Chavarat Charnvirakul, founded the Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction Company, which initially worked on projects that included fencing U.S. military sites in Thailand but eventually grew into a major construction firm. Chavarat also entered politics, briefly serving as Thailand's acting prime minister, besides short stints in the interior and health ministries. After an engineering degree in the United States, Anutin followed his father's path: first leading Sino-Thai, then joining politics, when he entered into an administration led by billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra in 2004. Three years later, Thaksin's populist Thai Rak Thai party was dissolved by a court order. The verdict also handed Anutin a five-year ban from politics. MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE Anutin returned to the fray in 2012 as the leader of the Bhumjaithai, then a provincial outfit with strong roots in Thailand's rural northeast, which he shaped into a national party capable of leading a coalition. It reflects Anutin's ability to balance provincial powerbrokers, who marshal hinterland votes, and appeal to urban supporters by bringing in technocrats for key ministries, said Napon Jatusripitak of the Bangkok-based Thailand Future think-tank. Thailand's conservative-royalist establishment, which has long wrestled with populists like Thaksin and, more recently, a younger progressive movement helmed by the People's Party, has also rallied behind Anutin, he added. "I think many can see that, strategically speaking, Bhumjaithai is the best chance to fend off the progressives and the Thaksin-ites," said Napon. "It's definitely a marriage of convenience." Anutin won't have much of a honeymoon, even if he is able to form a government. Thailand's economy is in the doldrums, buffeted by trade tensions and weighed down by soaring household debt. Its neighbourhood is in flux, with relations with Cambodia on edge and civil war raging on in Myanmar. And no democratically elected Thai prime minister has completed a full term since Thaksin in 2005. (Additional reporting by Panu Wongcha-um; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) Three men were pulled from the icy waters of New Yorks Jamaica Bay in a dramatic aerial rescue on Friday. The three men, all 22 years old, had been walking on the frozen bay when the ice collapsed and they fell in. First responders from New York City's fire department and NYPDs aerial unit arrived on the scene with scuba gear and a helicopter. In footage shot from NYPDs helicopter, emergency crews can be seen rushing to get to the men and pull them out of the water using the helicopters rope. According to local reporting, one of the men had stopped moving after being in the icy water for more than 40 minutes. All three men were described as being conscious and alert after being brought to local hospitals. The scene is a powerful reminder of the dangers of walking on ice during winter. Experts suggest that you want at least 4 inches of ice over a lake to hold the weight of a person walking on it, but thats not the only factor to consider. If the ice shows slushy or wet conditions on the top, that can be a sign that it is melting. Surprisingly, snow can also weaken ice by acting as an insulator to weaken it. (MORE: How Thick Does Ice Need To Be To Drive, Walk On It?) White or opaque ice can be a sign that a lake is not completely frozen. In footage from the dramatic rescue on Friday, the ice over Jamaica Bay is apparently opaque. Description: President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu host a joint press conference at the White House, Sept. 29, 2025. Photo: Sarah Roderick-Fitch / The Center Square (The Center Square) As the U.S. is in the midst of nuclear talks with Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit the White House on Wednesday, according to Israeli officials. The meeting will mark Netanyahus seventh meeting with President Donald Trump during the presidents second term. The leaders last met in late December at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla, where they discussed the future of the Islamic Republics nuclear program. Talks between the U.S. and Iran have been ongoing in Oman since late last week, with tensions between the two nations growing. Israel is reportedly concerned with not only Iran rebuilding its nuclear program, but also ballistic missiles and support for proxy groups, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. While Trump wont commit to whether the U.S. will strike Iran for the second time in less than a year, he continues to hurl threats at the Iranian regime, citing a large armada of naval ships in the region, which has been growing. Last week, the State Department warned Americans in the Islamic Republic to leave the country, signaling military actions are on the table if talks with Iran break down. Netanyahus visit to Washington was initially scheduled for the third week of February, according to multiple reports. Last week, Trump said that Irans leadership should be very worried amid rumors that the talks had hit a snag, which was later rebuffed. Im hearing that Iran wants to restart the new program. If thats the case, well send the forces to do the job again. They tried to go back to the site, but they couldnt access it. We discovered that they wanted to open a nuclear site in another part of the country. I said, You do that well do very bad things to you, Trump told NBC News. The president insists Operation Midnight Hammer, when the U.S. struck Irans nuclear sites in June, was a necessary step in pursuing peace in the Middle East. If we didnt take out that nuclear, we wouldnt have peace in the Middle East, because the Arab countries couldve never done that. They were very afraid of Iran. Theyre not afraid of Iran anymore, Trump added. During a press conference at the State Department last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared less optimistic that the U.S. and Iran could reach a deal. If the Iranians want to meet, were readyIm not sure you can reach a deal with these guys, but were going to try to find outThis is a president that always prefers a peaceful outcome to any conflict or any challenge, said Rubio. The talks come as a large armada of U.S. Naval ships has been and is moving closer to the Islamic Republic. Last week, the U.S. confirmed it had shot down two Iranian drones flying near the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier sailing in the region. The president continues to cite the increasingly significant naval presence in the region, hoping to pressure the Islamic Republic to make a deal. It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose. It is a larger fleet, headed by the great Aircraft Carrier Abraham Lincoln, than that sent to Venezuela. Like Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary, Trump previously posted on Truth Social. The president is calling on Iran to come to the table and negotiate a fair and equitable deal, underscoring that the Islamic Republic cease trying to rebuild its nuclear program. Time is running out, it is truly of the essence! As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didnt, and there was Operation Midnight Hammer, a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Dont make that happen again, Trump wrote. Irans delegation to the UN hit back at the presidents warnings, pointing to the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq indicating another war could be costly for American taxpayers and lives. Last time the U.S. blundered into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it squandered over $7 trillion and lost more than 7,000 American lives. Iran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests BUT IF PUSHED, IT WILL DEFEND ITSELF AND RESPOND LIKE NEVER BEFORE! the Iran delegation posted on X. The son of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has called his imprisonment by Chinese authorities essentially a "death sentence". The 78-year-old British citizen was sentenced on Monday for 20 years after he was found guilty of national security offences last December, marking the harshest sentence to be given under the city's controversial national security law (NSL). Lai was one of the loudest critics of China, often using his pro-democracy paper, Apple Daily, as a tool of protest. He has always denied the charges against him. Sebastien Lai, his son, told the BBC that he believed his father was being punished for "defending the freedom of Hong Kong". As a British citizen, Sebastien told BBC Radio 4's Today programme, that Lai deserved much more. "Surely a man who has given so much for liberty, for freedom deserves a bit of it himself," Sebastien said. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has said the UK government intends to "rapidly engage further" with Beijing on Lai's release. "I again call on the Hong Kong authorities to end this appalling ordeal and release him on humanitarian grounds, so that he may be reunited with his family," Cooper said in a statement on Monday. She added: "We stand with the people of Hong Kong." A Hong Kong court jailed pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai for 20 years after he was found guilty of national security offences last December US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the sentence "an unjust and tragic conclusion to this case", and similarly urged authorities to grant Lai "humanitarian parole". The sentence "shows the world that Beijing will go to extraordinary lengths to silence those who advocate fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong", he said in a statement. Sebastien Lai, the son of pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai, says the prison term is a death sentence Hailed as a hero by the pro-democracy movement, Lai was seen as a traitor by Beijing. Western governments, including the UK and US, have for years called for his release, which Beijing and Hong Kong have rejected. China introduced the controversial national security law in 2020 in response to pro-democracy protests which erupted in Hong Kong the year before. The legislation makes illegal a wider range of dissenting acts, including anything the state regards as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. It also allows Hong Kong to send cases to be tried in mainland China. Lai was found guilty of foreign collusion and publishing seditious material under the NSL. A court found that he used his now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper as part of a wider effort to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China. For the last five years, he has been held in solitary confinement at a maximum security prison - a detention his son believes is causing his health to "tremendously suffer". "Given his health, given that he has heart issues, given that he's lost 10kg over the last year alone, that's basically a death sentence," his son said. On a trip to Beijing last month, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told reporters that he had raised the issue of Lai's release with Chinese authorities. "Part of the rationale for engagement is to make sure that we can both seize the opportunities that are available - which is what we've done - but also have a mature discussion about issues that we disagree on," Sir Keir said after his meeting with President Xi Jinping. Former UK prime minister David Cameron joined the government in calling for Lai's release, saying the activist's imprisonment was "an affront to freedom of speech". "China must know that the world is watching," he wrote in a social media post. Meanwhile, shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel said Sir Keir's government "should be ashamed of themselves for not securing the release of Jimmy". Following the prime minister's visit to China, the UK government announced that Beijing had agreed to allow UK citizens to travel visa-free for trips under 30 days. The trip also saw an agreement to cut import taxes on UK whisky from 10% to 5%, as the government seeks closer trade ties with Beijing to help boost economic growth. Asked about how he viewed the UK government's recent diplomatic efforts to normalise relations with China, Sebastien pointed out that his father's case could present an "easy" opportunity to build even stronger ties. "If we talk about warming a relationship, well, I think for most people listening to this, isn't putting a 78-year-old man on a plane and sending him back here a very easy way for Hong Kong and China to do that?", he told the BBC. China maintains that its actions in the Lai case were "reasonable, legitimate and legal", with its foreign ministry saying on Monday there is "no room for argument". A woman holds a candle while a boy checks his cellphone during a blackout in Havana on January 28, 2026. Credit - Yamil LageAFP via Getty Images A United States-imposed blockade on oil to Cuba is causing a severe energy crisis on the island that has resulted in rolling blackouts, a strain on hospitals and the grounding of jets. On Monday, Cuban aviation authorities notified international airlines that the country is running out of jet fuel and that refuelling services for airlines will be suspended for a month, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration. Air Canada said it was suspending its service to the island as a result. It comes after President Donald Trump signed an executive order last month announcing that he would impose tariffs on any country that sells or provides oil to Cuba, which is run by a communist government that the Trump Administration would like to replace. Read more: Whats Happening With the U.S. and Venezuela, Explained The islands economy was already struggling due to decades of U.S. sanctions, but things rapidly deteriorated in January when shipments were halted from its main supplier, Venezuela, following a U.S. military operation to depose President Nicolas Maduro. Mexico, another oil supplier to Cuba, also announced on Monday that it was suspending its shipments after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Mexican exports to the U.S. The Financial Times reported in late January that Cuba only has oil reserves that could last for 15 to 20 days at the current level of demand. Some medical facilities have also been severely impacted by the fuel shortages. Local media reported that some provincial hospitals have canceled surgeries and outpatient transfers. Critical medical supplies such as painkillers, gauze, and antibiotics are also unavailable. The fuel shortage has also strained the country's food supplies. Last week, the U.S. gave $6 million in humanitarian aid to the country, the State Department said. The supplies include rice, beans, pasta, cans of tuna and solar lamps that will be delivered by the Catholic Church and Caritas. Mexico is also sending more than 814 tons of food and hygiene products to Cuba, which is scheduled to arrive in a few days. The United Nations warned last week that the vast majority of Cubans are being hit by rolling blackouts, and that the humanitarian collapse would worsen, and if not collapse, if its oil needs go unmet. The last two years have been quite tough, said Francisco Pichon, the most senior United Nations official in Cuba. Prior to the oil blockade, the Caribbean island suffered from a withering economy due to its dwindling tourism business since the Covid-19 pandemic. Last year, Hurricane Melissa also swept Cubas five provinces, displacing more than 735,000 people while destroying homes and basic infrastructure. In recent days, as the energy crisis has worsened, the Cuban government has called for dialogue with the U.S. government. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Monday denounced the "cruel aggression" of the United States, which he said was aimed at "breaking the political will of the Cuban people." "The situation is tough and will demand great sacrifice," said Rodriguez, while reiterating Cuba's "willingness to engage in dialogue", though on its own terms without pressure. Trump said in early February that the U.S. is engaging in diplomatic conversations with the highest people in Cuba. It doesn't have to be a humanitarian crisis. I think they probably would come to us and want to make a deal, Trump said. Trumps remarks came not long after Secretary Marco Rubio acknowledged that the U.S. would like to see the end of the communist regime in Cuba. That doesn't mean that we're going to make a change, but we would love to see a change," Rubio told a Congressional hearing late last month. "There's no doubt about the fact that it would be a great benefit to the United States if Cuba was no longer governed by an autocratic regime," Rubio added. Cubas deputy foreign minister dismissed that possibility in an interview with CNN. Were not ready to discuss our constitutional system as we suppose the U.S. is not ready to discuss their constitutional system, their political system, their economic reality, Carlos Fernandez de Cossio said. Contact us at letters@time.com. FILE PHOTO: A worker handles a tray with Mediterranean fruit flies inside a bio-factory as Mexico's government reconditions a plant to become the new sterile screwworm fly facility, part of the country's effort to eradicate the flesh-eating parasite that threatens its livestock industry and raises tensions with the United States, in Metapa de Dominguez, Mexico, October 17, 2025. REUTERS/Daniel Becerril/File Photo CHICAGO, Feb 9 (Reuters) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture will open a facility in Texas by the end of next year that produces sterile flies intended to fight the flesh-eating parasite New World screwworm, Secretary Brooke Rollins said on Monday. Rollins gave an update on the $750 million plant after announcing last August that USDA planned to build it in response to northward spread of the pest in Mexico toward the U.S. border. Screwworms are parasitic flies whose females lay eggs in wounds on warm-blooded animals, often livestock. Once the eggs hatch, hundreds of screwworm larvae use their sharp mouths to burrow through living flesh, eventually killing their host if left untreated. USDA produces 100 million sterile flies per week at a facility in Panama and disperses them in Mexico to prevent wild screwworm flies from reproducing. The agency opened a dispersal facility for sterile flies in southern Texas on Monday, but experts have said USDA urgently needs to produce many more. (Reporting by Tom Polansek, Editing by Franklin Paul and Nia Williams) FILE PHOTO: Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci attends his war crimes trial in The Hague, Netherlands April 3, 2023. Koen van Weel/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo By Stephanie van den Berg THE HAGUE, Feb 9 (Reuters) - International war crimes prosecutors said on Monday Kosovo's former president Hashim Thaci controlled ethnic Albanian guerrillas and should be convicted of war crimes and sentenced to 45 years in prison. Thaci and three other ex-Kosovo Liberation Army commanders are charged with persecution, murder, torture and forced disappearances of people during and shortly after the 1998-99 uprising that eventually brought independence for the Albanian majority region from Serbia. "The accused committed crimes against their perceived opponents to take control over Kosovo," prosecutor Kimberly West told the court in The Hague. She added that in 1998 and 1999 more than 100 political opponents and perceived collaborators with Serbian security forces were killed and hundreds abused in and around 50 detention camps run by the KLA. "This case is about the four accused's goal to gain and exercise control over all of Kosovo," West said near the end of a nearly three-year trial at the special Kosovo war crimes court in The Hague. Thaci, 57, who served as prime minister, foreign minister and president of independent Kosovo between 2008 and 2020, and his co-accused deny all the charges. Lawyers for Thaci, expected to give their closing statements on Wednesday, earlier argued that Thaci had no real authority over the KLA and its military commanders during the uprising and its aftermath and had to defer to local zone commanders. West said on Monday prosecutors had overwhelming evidence showing that the four men on trial were key members of the KLA central staff and were the ones to issue orders to zone commanders, not the other way around. KLA TARGETED POLITICAL FOES, SERBS AND ROMA, PROSECUTORS SAY Prosecutors say Thaci and other KLA leaders waged a violent campaign targeting political opponents, as well as minority ethnic Serbs and Roma to gain full control of Kosovo. Most victims of persecution were members of Kosovo's 90% ethnic Albanian majority, the prosecution said. The Kosovo Specialist Chambers, staffed by international judges and lawyers, was set up in 2015 to handle war crimes cases under Kosovo law against ex-KLA guerrillas. The war crimes tribunal was set up outside the small Balkan country because of worries about witness intimidation as former KLA leaders are seen as national liberation heroes in Kosovo. Despite these precautions, prosecutors said Monday the trial had faced a "pervasive climate of witness intimidation". Thaci and four other defendants face a separate trial for obstruction of justice which is scheduled to start on February 27. More than 13,000 people, the majority of them Kosovo Albanians, are believed to have died during the late 1990s insurgency, when Kosovo was still a province of Serbia under then-nationalist strongman President Slobodan Milosevic. The Kosovo court was created separately from the now defunct International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, also based in the Hague, which tried and convicted mainly Serbian officials for war crimes in the Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo conflicts. Milosevic also went on trial before the ICTY but died in 2006 before a verdict was reached. (Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg; editing by Mark Heinrich) Mixed-Use Development Spans Full City Block and Will Offer Both Market Rate and Affordable Apartments, as well as Retail and Commercial Spaces NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tavros, a privately-owned real estate investment management and development firm based in New York City, today announces that it has closed on the acquisition of 250 Water Street. The one-acre mixed-use development project, spanning a full block in Manhattan's Seaport neighborhood, was acquired for a sale price of $143.0 million. Tavros is planning a 600-unit ground-up residential asset, with 25% of the apartments to be affordable, and of that 25%, 80% will be deeply affordable. A five-story podium with ground floor retail and four floors of commercial space will anchor the base of the building. Tavros plans to use the facade and massing previously designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill; going forward, Fogarty Finger will be the design architect and architect of record. 250 Water Street is one of the last remaining full-block development opportunities in lower Manhattan. "The South Street Seaport is one of the most historically significant locations in New York City and it has evolved into a dynamic residential neighborhood," said Nicholas Silvers, a Founding Partner of Tavros. "We are thrilled to help carry forward a project that will have a meaningful impact on Manhattan for decades to come." Tavros has been active in New York City, with ongoing projects -- a 55-story condominium in Court Square, Long Island City; Gowanus Wharf, a five-building residential campus spanning four sites with over 2,200 residential units; and 50 Ninth Avenue, an 80,000-square-foot commercial building in Manhattan's trendy Meatpacking District that houses Rolls Royce's luxury showroom. Charney Companies is co-developing Gowanus Wharf with Tavros, and both Charney Companies and Incoco Capital are developing the Court Square skyscraper along with Tavros. JLL represented the seller in the transaction and advised the new ownership on the pre- development loan provided by BDT &MSD Partners, a merchant bank with an advisory and investment platform built to serve the distinct needs of business owners and strategic, long-term investors. Atlas Capital provided an equity investment alongside Tavros. Atlas' preferred equity investment supports the acquisition and pre-development of 250 Water Street. Atlas' platform provides flexible capital complemented by deep development and operational expertise, partnering on select residential and mixed-use projects throughout New York City. Recent transactions include 175 Third Street and 205 Montague Street, both in Brooklyn. The JLL Capital Markets' team that arranged the sale was led by Senior Managing Directors Andrew Scandalios and Ethan Stanton and Senior Director Nicco Lupo. JLL's Debt & Equity team advised the buyer and included Senior Managing Director Christopher Peck and Senior Director Nicco Lupo. "250 Water Street represents a truly irreplaceable development opportunity in one of New York City's most dynamic neighborhoods," said Stanton. "The combination of a full-block site, compelling scale and long-term growth fundamentals made this a highly competitive process, and we are thrilled to have advised Tavros and Atlas in executing a best-in-class capitalization." CONTACT: Barbara Wagner Barbara Wagner Communications (917) 751-4387 [email protected] Valentina Parra Rodriguez Barbara Wagner Communications (516) 589-2975 [email protected] SOURCE Tavros Prince William has touched down at King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia, where Riyadh's Deputy Governor will extend an official greeting. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz received the heir to the British throne at the airport's Royal Terminal. The Deputy Governor will host the Prince of Wales, offering traditional coffee and dates upon his arrival at the prestigious terminal facility. This reception follows established protocol, with Prince Mohammed having previously welcomed both Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer to the same Royal Terminal during their visits to the Saudi capital. Prince William | Source: PA The Deputy Governor holds a distinguished lineage as a direct descendant of Ibn Saud, who founded the modern Saudi state. Prince Mohammed took up his position overseeing Riyadh in 2017, and the following year joined the Council for Royal Reserves, a body tasked with safeguarding and developing the kingdom's natural reserves alongside other senior royals. This morning, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued a joint statement on the Epstein files. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his former wife Sarah Ferguson have both appeared in documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The release represents one of the largest disclosures related to the case, intensifying scrutiny on those connected to the late financier who died 2019. The former Duke and Duchess of York have always denied any wrongdoing. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said on behalf of Catherine and William: "The Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. "Their thoughts remain focused on the victims." Kensington Palace has moved to clarify the Prince and Princess of Wales' stance just hours before William embarks on his trip to Saudi Arabia. The palace was clearly eager for the royal couple's position to be established, allowing the prince to concentrate fully on representing the UK. The former Duke and Duchess of Yorks links to Epstein have cast a shadow over royal engagements in recent weeks, drawing attention away from the family's official duties. Appearing in the Epstein files is not evidence of any wrongdoing and inclusion in the documents does not implicate anyone in Epstein's criminality. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter FILE PHOTO: Media mogul Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of Apple Daily speaks during an interview to response national security legislation in Hong Kong, China May 29, 2020. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu/File Photo FILE PHOTO: Media mogul Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of Apple Daily speaks during an interview to response national security legislation in Hong Kong, China May 29, 2020. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu/File Photo By James Pomfret and Jessie Pang HONG KONG, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Hong Kong's most vocal China critic, media tycoon Jimmy Lai, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in jail, ending the city's biggest national security case that has fueled global concerns about Beijing's clampdown on freedoms in the ex-British colony. Lai's sentence on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one for publishing seditious materials ends a legal saga that has lasted nearly five years. The 78-year-old British citizen had denied all the charges against him, telling the court he was a "political prisoner" facing persecution from Beijing. Lai, founder of the feisty and now shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was first arrested in August 2020 and was convicted last year. His sentence was within the harshest penalty tier for offences of a "grave nature", reflecting the fact that he was the driving force behind "persistent" foreign collusion conspiracies, the three judges said in announcing their verdict. They cited prosecution evidence that the conspiracies had sought sanctions, blockades and other hostile acts from the U.S. and other countries while involving a web of individuals including Apple Daily staff, activists and foreigners. Six former senior Apple Daily staffers, an activist and a paralegal were also sentenced to jail terms ranging from six to 10 years. "In the present case, Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence," the judges said. 'EVIL DEEDS WERE BEYOND MEASURE' The U.S., Britain, Australia, the European Union, Japan and Taiwan expressed concerns about the impact of the sentencing. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the sentence "unjust and tragic", saying it showed the lengths to which China would go to silence advocates of basic freedoms in Hong Kong. "... Mr. Lai and his family have suffered enough. The United States urges the authorities to grant Mr. Lai humanitarian parole," Rubio said in a statement, echoing similar calls from Britain and U.N. rights chief Volker Turk. Britain will "rapidly engage further on Mr Lai's case", foreign minister Yvette Cooper said. Britain also announced an expansion of the visa route for Hong Kong residents wanting to move to the UK. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London urged Britain to "respect China's judicial sovereignty and stop interfering in Hong Kong's rule of law and China's internal affairs". The spokesperson also said Britain should "stop shielding criminals". The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, under China's State Council, said the sentence was "a solemn and powerful declaration that whoever dares to challenge the law on safeguarding national security will be severely punished". Hong Kong's leader John Lee said: "(Jimmy Lai) has committed numerous heinous crimes, and his evil deeds were beyond measure." Lai's trial has drawn criticism from global leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, spotlighting a years-long national security crackdown in the China-ruled Asian financial hub, following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Those concerns partly reflected Lai's long-standing international profile as a pro-democracy critic of China's Communist Party leadership and his extensive political connections, particularly among U.S. Republicans - ties that prosecutors cited during the case. At the height of the 2019 protests, Lai met then-U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington. Last year Trump appealed directly to Chinese President Xi Jinping to free Lai. Beijing in 2020 imposed the national security law in Hong Kong, saying it was necessary to stabilise the city after months of sometimes violent unrest. 'HE'S GOING TO PASS AWAY IN PRISON' Lai's friends and supporters say he is in frail health with diabetes and high blood pressure, and should be freed. Lai's son, Sebastien, said the sentence was "devastating for our family" and marked the "total destruction" of Hong Kong's legal system. "Much more needs to be done and quickly because, if not, he's going to pass away in prison," Sebastien Lai, also a British citizen, later told Reuters in London. He also urged Britain to pause its push to reset relations with China. Hong Kong police played down concerns about Lai's health. The head of the force's national security department, Steve Li, said Lai's health concerns had been "exaggerated". Beijing and Hong Kong officials say Lai has received a fair trial and that all are treated equally under a national security law they say has been vital to restoring order to the city. Dozens of Lai's supporters queued for several days to secure a spot in the courtroom. "I feel that Mr. Lai is the conscience of Hong Kong," said a man named Sum, 64, who was in the queue. Lai's lawyer, Robert Pang, declined to comment when asked whether Lai would appeal, saying he has 28 days to do so. (Reporting by James Pomfret, Jessie Pang; Additional reporting by Andrew MacAskill in London, Kiyoshi Takenaka in Tokyo, Ben Blanchard in Taipei and Sudip Kar-Gupta in Brussels and Emma Farge in Geneva; Writing by Greg Torode; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Michael Perry, Thomas Derpinghaus and Gareth Jones) Republicans face a struggling base, Steve Bannon warns, as polls show MAGA voters losing motivation for 2026.mega; Bannon's War Room/Rumble Steve Bannon is warning Republicans that trouble may be ahead in the 2026 midterms, RadarOnline.com can reveal. Polls suggest the MAGA base is losing enthusiasm and checking out. 'Lack of Enthusiasm' Steve Bannon spoke to conservatives about slipping enthusiasm among MAGA voters.Bannon's War Room/Rumble "You have a massive lack of enthusiasm among the base," Bannon said. "Because they're sitting there going, 'I'm just not feelin' it right now.'" The former adviser to President Donald Trump raised concerns on his War Room show on Rumble, emphasizing that his worry is backed by data, not just gut feelings. "Some of our best pollsters," he said, including Rich Baris and Mark Mitchell, "are saying that Republicans are in trouble." Polling Data and Opinions Bannon appeared on War Room to highlight concerns for Republicans ahead of 2026.mega Big Data Poll, led by Baris, reported at the end of January that "Democrats have expanded their advantage among those who are 'Extremely Enthusiastic' to vote," with a 53.6% to 41.8% edge. Baris shared with the GOP, "If Republicans are going to experience a comeback, something has got to change sooner rather than later." Mitchell echoed that concern in a recent TheNew York Post article, arguing that Trumps approval rating has slipped as his administration moved away from initiatives that once energized the base. Mitchell said the governing approach now appears scattered, weighed down by internal conflict and unresolved controversies. "Rather than doubling down on systemic accountability, the last few months have felt unfocused, with counter-signaling on affordability and jobs, infighting, the Epstein saga, renewed foreign entanglements and a governing posture that feels reactive rather than intentional," Mitchell wrote. "Voters are noticing." MAGA is a 'Big Lie' Polling data showed Democrats gaining an edge with highly motivated voters.mega Recently, former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene also called out the MAGA movement claming it was "all a lie." "MAGA is... I think people are realizing it was all a lie. It was a big lie for the people," Greene said. Greene said MAGA 'serves the big donors that donate all the money' to Trump's PACs and his new 'big ballroom.' "Those are the people that get the special favors, the government contracts, they get the pardons," Greene shared. "And it's the foreign countries that are running the show here. It's the major big corporations and what is best for the world. That's really what MAGA is." Marjorie Taylor Greene Calling Out Donald Trump Rich Bariss Big Data Poll reported a widening gap in voter enthusiasm.mega Greene also criticized Trump for focusing more on international issues than domestic ones. "I'm sorry, we've got civil war practically breaking out in Minnesota, can we not care about that?" she said. She then turned her attention to Israel, asserting that Trump is overly fixated on the country while ignoring the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. "We're seeing war on behalf of Israel," Greene stated. "We're seeing the people in Gazainnocent people in Gaza, hundreds of thousands of them completely murdered, so that they can build some new real estate development and money can pour in, and everyone can get rich there in 'New Gaza.'" She continued: "We're seeing a whole plan play out, which is really a new world order, it's the new way of doing business. It's kind of like the Scooby Doo meme where they pull the mask off the bad guy. Well, the mask is being pulled off and 'Make America Great Again' isn't really about America or the American people." Some American companies become part of everyday life without much notice. They influence routines, travel, and habits in ways that feel natural rather than forced. A nationwide survey with more than 10,000 responses sought to identify which brands people consider most culturally important. Alongside the usual national giants, three Ohio-based companies earned a place for their influence over time. 10. Kroger Cincinnati, Ohio Credit: Wikimedia Commons Long before grocery delivery apps and self-checkout lanes, Kroger was reshaping how Americans shop. It was the first to combine bakery and meat counters under one roof. Beyond its name, the company runs dozens of regional stores, like Fred Meyer and King Soopers. 9. Wendys Dublin, Ohio Credit: Wikimedia Commons Dave Thomas opened the first Wendys in 1969 with a fresh beef promise and his daughters name on the sign. The square burgers stuck, but so did the sass. Decades later, Wendys found a second wind online, where its Twitter comebacks earned as much attention as its Frostys. 8. Nike Beaverton, Oregon Credit: Wikimedia Commons Nike officially took its name in 1971 after being founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports. Its partnership with Michael Jordan in the '80s helped birth sneaker culture. The brand leaned hard into athlete endorsements and cultural moments, making its Just Do It slogan stick around far longer than most ads ever do. 7. McDonalds Chicago, Illinois Credit: Wikimedia Commons Since 1940, McDonalds has fed everyone from road trippers to world leaders. At its peak, the chain opened a new restaurant every five hours. The menu shifts with trendsMcWraps, plant-based nuggets, BTS mealsbut the core is still burgers, fries, and that red tray. 6. Procter & Gamble Cincinnati, Ohio Credit: Wikimedia Commons P&G is behind so many household brands that its easy to forget theyre all part of one company. Founded in 1837 in Cincinnati, the firm became a marketing machine early on. P&G pioneered soap operas on radio to sell detergent and still dominates Super Bowl ad rankings with emotional spots that usually feature moms or athletes. 5. Amazon Seattle, Washington Credit: Wikimedia Commons What began with books in 1994 became something much bigger and faster. Amazon turned free shipping into an expectation and built one of the most complex logistics networks ever created. It also popularized the smart speaker with Alexa and quietly became a tech infrastructure giant through AWS. 4. Coca-Cola Atlanta, Georgia Credit: pexels Coca-Colas recipe is famous for being secret, but its cultural impact is easy to see. Founded in 1892, the company helped define modern advertising and built one of the first truly global distribution networks. Its holiday campaigns also influenced the modern image of Santa Claus. Today, Coca-Cola sells its drinks in more than 200 countries and often serves as a symbol of American brands abroad. 3. Google Mountain View, California Credit: Wikimedia Commons Google started in 1998 as a project by two Stanford graduate students. Today, it processes billions of searches each day and owns YouTube. Its software runs on most smartphones outside the Apple ecosystem. The brand became so familiar that to Google entered the dictionary as a verb. 2. Ford Dearborn, Michigan Credit: Wikimedia Commons Ford brought cars to the masses and rewrote the rules of manufacturing. The moving assembly line, launched in 1913, changed everything. At one point, half the cars in the world were Fords. Over 100 years later, the Mustang is still a fan favorite, and Fords EV push shows it's not interested in being a history lesson. 1. Apple Cupertino, California Credit: Wikimedia Commons The iPhone launched in 2007, but Apple had been climbing toward icon status since 1976. Known for slick design and software that just works, Apple created its own ecosystem that people happily buy into. The companys headquarters look like a spaceship, and its product launches feel like concerts. MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 06: JD Vance, Vice President of the United States, and Usha Vance, Second Lady of the United States, attend the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics at San Siro Stadium on February 06, 2026 in Milan, Italy. Credit - Andreas Rentz2026 Getty Images Olympic opening ceremonies are traditionally unifying, non-political eventsa chance for athletes from around the world to introduce their national teams before the competition begins. But when Vice President J.D. Vance appeared on the stadiums big screen during the kickoff of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Games on Friday, the unmistakable sound of boos and jeers broke out among the crowd of 65,000 people. While President Donald Trump seemed to brush off the reaction, telling reporters on Air Force One, Thats surprising because people like himHe doesnt get booed in this country, recent polls suggest that its not just Vance who has a problem in Europe. Read More: Milan Cortinas Painfully Long Olympics Opening Ceremony Was a Defiantly Analog Celebration of Humanity A new YouGov poll released Feb. 6 found that favorable views of the U.S. among Western European nations have fallen sharply since Trump's return to office, following the President's aggressive attempts to annex Greenland, his Administrations ongoing trade war with most of its European allies, and a years-long divide over the future of NATO and European security. Perhaps predictably, the biggest impact was seen in Denmark. Some 84% of Danes now hold an unfavourable view of the U.S., compared with an average of 36% during former President Joe Bidens term. Only 26% of Danes view the U.S. as an ally or friendly nation, compared with 80% in July 2023. The same trend is seen across Western Europe, in countries that were once considered U.S. allies. In Spain, only 39% of people see the U.S. as a friend or ally today, down from 73% in 2023. In Germany, the number is 41%, down from 70%; in Britain, 46%, down from 69%; in France, 53%, down from 64%; and in Italy, 52%, down from 61%. A closer look at the data shows that Europeans views of the United States are strongly influenced by their views of Trump. A January poll by YouGov found that, in Britain, 81% of people held an unfavorable opinion of President Trump; in France, 75%; in Germany, 84%; and in Denmark, 94%. That shift has coincided with a change in U.S. policy toward Europe. Early in Trumps second term, it became clear that the Administration would treat Europe differently from its predecessors, and that Vance would be a leading critic of European policies. In an antagonistic speech at the Munich Security Conference in February 2025, Vance criticized European nations for their policies on free speech and argued that the continent's gravest danger was not Russia or China, but their own governments, which he deemed overly restrictive of free speech. The Trump Administration diverged from European allies on the war in Ukraine, trade, and immigration, too. The strain between the U.S. and Europe was heightened in recent months as Trump increased his efforts to acquire Greenland, a semi-autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark. After Trump refused to rule out military action to take control of the island, the United States NATO allies warned such an action would mean the death of the alliance. When troops from Britain, France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands participated in joint military exercises with Denmark on the island, Trump responded by imposing tariffs on all participating countries. He eventually removed the tariffs after reaching a framework agreement with NATO regarding the island's future. Contact us at letters@time.com. Japans ruling coalition has won the countrys general election by an historic margin, giving prime minister Sanae Takaichi a two-thirds supermajority and the mandate to pass major legislation while overriding the upper chamber of parliament. Ms Takaichis Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) alone captured 316 of the 465 seats in the lower house of the Diet, Japans parliament, making it the partys strongest performance since its founding in 1955. The result led to a surge in Japanese stocks on Monday morning, with markets reacting positively to the clear signal on the countrys political and economic direction. With its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), the ruling bloc now controls 352 seats, comfortably exceeding the threshold required to overrule the upper house where the coalition lacks a majority. A former heavy metal drummer from the hardline conservative wing of Japans dominant LDP party, Ms Takaichi has previously cited the late Margaret Thatcher as one of her political heroes. Speaking after the results were confirmed, Ms Takaichi said the vote endorsed her legislative programme that had so far faced a great deal of opposition. Japan's prime minister Sanae Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), next to LDP secretary-general Shunichi Suzuki and LDP election strategy chief Keiji Furuya (Getty Images) This election involved major policy shifts particularly a major shift in economic and fiscal policy, as well as strengthening security policy, she said in a television interview. These are policies that have drawn a great deal of opposition ... If we have received the public's support, then we truly must tackle these issues with all our strength. Takaichi became prime minister after winning her partys leadership election late last year, and said she had no plans to make immediate changes to her Cabinet. "I think the current Cabinet is a good team, she told NHK. It's still only just over three months since it was launched, but the members have been working really hard and are producing results. So I don't think I will change it. People queue up at a polling station to vote during the House of Representatives election in Kawasaki, Kanagawa prefecture on 8 February 2026 (AFP via Getty Images) The outcome marks a sharp reversal for the LDP after it lost control of both chambers during the previous 15 months under former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba. Ms Takaichi, 64, was chosen to lead the party after Mr Ishiba resigned, and called the rare winter snap election to capitalise on high personal approval ratings only months into her tenure. It was just the third postwar election held in February, with heavy snowfall disrupting travel, forcing some polling stations to close early and prompting voters in affected regions to trek through snow to cast ballots. Outside a polling station in Uonuma, a town in Niigata prefecture, teacher Kazushige Cho said he voted for the LDP despite below-freezing conditions. A man walks past a board displaying posters of candidates for the House of Representatives election during a snowfall in Tokyo on 8 February 2026 (AFP via Getty Images) It feels like shes creating a sense of direction like the whole country is pulling together and moving forward, he said. The scale of the win gives Ms Takaichi momentum to pursue pledges that have previously unsettled investors, including a promise to suspend an eight per cent sales tax on food to ease pressure on households facing rising prices. Japan carries the heaviest public debt burden among advanced economies, and concerns about how the cut would be funded have weighed on markets. Ms Takaichi said on Sunday she would accelerate consideration of the measure while keeping fiscal sustainability in focus. Her plans for the cut in the consumption tax leave open big question marks about funding and how she's going to go about making the arithmetic add up, said Chris Scicluna, head of research at Daiwa Capital Markets Europe in London. Nonetheless, business leaders welcomed the result as a return of stability after a period of relative chaos in Japans normally staid politics, and Japanese shares surged to record levels on Monday after her win. The Nikkei 225 Stock Average jumped more than five per cent during the session, briefly topping the 57,000 mark for the first time, while the broader Topix index gained about three per cent. Around two hours into trading, gains had eased slightly, with the Nikkei still up roughly 4.7 per cent. Yoshinobu Tsutsui, head of the Keidanren business lobby, said the economy was at a critical juncture for achieving sustainable and strong growth. The campaign also highlighted Ms Takaichis appeal to younger voters. Voters take part in the House of Representatives election at a polling station in Tokyo on 8 February 2026 (AFP via Getty Images) Her straight-talking style has driven a pop-culture phenomenon dubbed sanakatsu, roughly meaning Sanae-mania, with fans snapping up accessories she is known for using in parliament. Ms Takaichis nationalistic leanings and emphasis on security, however, have strained relations with China. Weeks after taking office, she set off the most serious dispute with Beijing in more than a decade by publicly outlining how Tokyo might respond to a Chinese attack on Taiwan, the self-governing island claimed by China. Beijing answered with countermeasures, including urging its citizens not to travel to Japan. Taiwans president, Lai Ching-te, was among the first foreign leaders to congratulate Ms Takaichi, saying he hoped her victory would bring a more prosperous and secure future for Japan and its partners in the region. The strengthened mandate could hasten plans to expand Japans military capabilities, further angering Beijing, which has accused her of seeking to revive the countrys militaristic past. Japans defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, said on Sunday evening he wanted to press ahead with strengthening defence while continuing dialogue with China. Beijing will not welcome Takaichis victory, said David Boling, a principal at the Asia Group, which advises companies on geopolitical risk. China now faces the reality that she is firmly in place and that its efforts to isolate her completely failed. Ms Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defence policies by December, including boosting offensive capabilities and lifting a ban on weapons exports, moves that would further depart from postwar pacifist principles. Japan's prime minister and leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Sanae Takaichi, speaks during an election campaign event ahead of the 8 February snap election (Reuters) She has also advocated tougher measures on immigration, foreigners, and anti-espionage, including stricter rules for foreign property ownership and a cap on foreign residents. International reaction was swift. US president Donald Trump congratulated Ms Takaichi in a social media post, wishing her great success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda. He added that it was my honor to endorse you and wrote: She is a highly respected and very popular leader, and Sanaes bold and wise decision to call for an election paid off big time. Mr Trump, who endorsed Ms Takaichi on Friday, said he would host her at the White House next month. Milan-Cortina 2026 organisers say they are "looking closely" at why Olympic medals are breaking after several athletes experienced issues with theirs. Two of the USA's gold medallists, Breezy Johnson and Alysa Liu, revealed the ribbon had come away from the medal soon after they received their prize. Johnson, who won gold in the women's downhill alpine skiing, showed her broken medal at the post-event media conference. "So there's the medal. And there's the ribbon," she told reporters. "And here's the little piece that is supposed to go into the ribbon to hold the medal, and yeah, it came apart." Liu disclosed a similar issue in a video on social media after she won gold as part of the United States squad in the figure skating team event. The video shows Liu holding up the medal and ribbon in separate hands, with the text: "My medal don't need the ribbon." Breezy Johnson revealed her broken gold medal after winning the women's downhill The issue also befell the German team who won bronze in the biathlon. An Instagram video shows the medal falling from the ribbon of one of the athletes as they jumped up and down in celebration at the team hotel. Andrea Francisi, Milan-Cortina 2026 chief games operations officer, said the organisers are investigating the issue. "We are fully aware of the situation," Francisi said. "We are looking into exactly what the problem is. "We are going to pay particular attention to the medals, and obviously this is something we want to be perfect when the medal is handed over because this is one of the most important moments for the athletes." A United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee spokesperson told BBC Sport they are waiting for organisers to resolve the issue. It has not yet been confirmed whether athletes will receive replacement medals. This is not the first time the quality of medals awarded at Olympic Games has been called into question. As of February 2025, a total of 220 requests have been made to replace medals won at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games because of wear and tear - roughly 4% of those awarded. Diver Yasmin Harper, who won Team GB's first medal of the 2024 Games, was among the athletes to notice her medal was showing signs of "tarnishing". Paris 2024 organisers said any damaged medals would be replaced. Infor has appointed Geoff Thomas as its senior vice president and general manager for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) to reinforce its presence in the region. Based in Sydney, Thomas focus will be on enhancing customer experiences and driving innovation in key markets, which include Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ), Japan, Southeast and North Asia (SENA), and India. He is expected to see Infor deepen its local expertise, expand its partner network and providing customers with support and industry-specific cloud technologies. Thomas enters the role with more than 30 years of experience in IT company leadership roles across Asia Pacific and APJ. In addition to his time at Qlik, where he was its senior vice president for APJ for close to six years, he also has worked at OneLogin, D2L, Polycom, Juniper Networks, and Microsoft. Aidan Brecknell (Infor) Infor Under his watch at Infor, two promotions within his remit have already been made: Aidan Brecknell as A/NZ vice president and managing director, and Victor Ng as vice president and managing director for SENA. Infors dynamic and fast-growing customers rely on our solutions to make their business more resilient, efficient and innovative, Thomas said. NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Elie Wiesel Foundation is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Mark Podwal Prize in Visual Art, celebrating artists whose work powerfully explores Jewish identity, memory, heritage, resilience, and human connection. The winners were selected by a distinguished jury from a wide and diverse pool of submissions and will be honored in an exhibition together with selected works by Mark Podwal opening to the public April 17, 2026, at the Dr. Bernard Heller Museum, Hebrew Union College in New York City. The prize established in collaboration with the Podwal family and inspired by the deep creative partnership between Mark Podwal, one of America's most distinguished Jewish artists, and Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel encourages artists to respond to themes central to Jewish life and culture through visual art. Ariel Podwal, son of Mark Podwal, said, "This award honors my father and his work with Elie and Marion Wiesel to celebrate Jewish life and confront antisemitism through word and image. Continuing that work with their son Elisha Wiesel and The Foundation carries our parents' shared legacy into the next generation." LizAnn Eisen, Executive Director of The Elie Wiesel Foundation, said, "The Mark Podwal Prize affirms that art carries both joy and responsibility. By honoring these artists, we celebrate Jewish creativity as a living force one that invites us to remember, to embrace complexity, and to move forward with purpose and hope." 2026 Prize Winners First Prize: Allison Zuckerman, "Even a Flood Could Not Wash Away the Flame" Allison Zuckerman, "Even a Flood Could Not Wash Away the Flame" Second Prize: Joan Linder, "Titled" Joan Linder, "Titled" Third Prize: Max Bauman, "Emergency Golem" Honorable Mention Joshua Meyer, "Eight Approaches" The exhibition preview press dates begin April 6, 2026, and the exhibition opens on April 17, 2026, and will remain on view through June 25, 2026, offering the public a rich opportunity to engage with these compelling visual interpretations of continuity, resilience, and narrative, together with selected works by Mark Podwal. Allison Zuckerman, first place winner, on the role of art in expressing Jewish resilience: "Through this work, I sought to give form to the enduring strength of Jewish communities how we remember, rebuild, and find hope. Art allows us to speak to resilience in ways that words alone cannot." About the Mark Podwal Prize in Visual Art The Mark Podwal Prize invites artists from across the United States to explore themes of heritage, memory, resilience, and human connection. Inspired by Podwal and Wiesel's decades-long collaboration which gave powerful visual voice to Jewish history, faith, and hope the prize underscores the role of art in expressing both individual and collective narratives. Submissions in any visual medium that thoughtfully reflect these themes are eligible, and winners receive monetary awards and recognition at the annual exhibition. Submissions for the 2028 Podwal Prize will open in May 2027. About The Elie Wiesel Foundation The Elie Wiesel Foundation was established in 1987 by Nobel Laureate and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel and his wife Marion to promote memory, tolerance and equality through programs that inspire ethical reflection, youth development, and understanding. Guided by Wiesel's belief in moral responsibility and human dignity, The Foundation supports youth-focused initiatives such as the Prize in Ethics Essay Contest, champions human rights, and sponsors educational centers and cultural exchanges that promote acceptance, equality, and cross-community engagement. Today, The Foundation continues Elie Wiesel's legacy by cultivating moral leadership and empowering changemakers whose work reflects the enduring values of compassion, tolerance, and shared humanity. About the Heller Museum The Dr. Bernard Heller Museum at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City is a dynamic university museum dedicated to showcasing contemporary artists of all backgrounds whose work explores Jewish identity, history, culture, and values. The Museum presents thoughtfully curated exhibitions that interpret core Jewish texts and traditions while engaging with pressing cultural, social, and historical themes from communal justice and ritual innovation to broader human experience inviting visitors to deepen their understanding of Jewish heritage through the visual arts. In addition to its compelling temporary shows, the Heller Museum serves as a resource for students and scholars, offers traveling exhibitions to venues across North America, and fosters dialogue about art's role in enriching both Jewish life and cross-cultural understanding. Contact: LizabethAnn R. Eisen Executive Director The Elie Wiesel Foundation [email protected] www.eliewieselfoundation.org Media Contact: Helen Dunn Hiltzik Strategies [email protected] Contact: Jean Bloch Rosensaft Director, Dr. Bernard Heller Museum, Hebrew Union College, New York [email protected] www.huc.edu/hellermuseum SOURCE The Elie Wiesel Foundation As the global cyber security talent gap continues to widen, making collaboration between industry and education increasingly important, which is why Fortinet partners with educational institutions like the University of South Australia (UniSA). Fortinets partnership with UniSA gives students access to industry-recognised training, hands-on labs, and certifications that employers value through the Fortinet Academic Partner Program. The partnership has already helped students move into roles in networking and security, turning classroom learning into professional certifications, real-world experience, and meaningful careers in cyber security. It also includes AI integration to enhance cyber security defenses and address the industrys skills gap. Fortinet director of channels for Australia and New Zealand John Milionis said the vendors global academic partner program spans 100 countries with 800 partners as well as supporting mid-market and small- to medium-sized businesses (SMB) through managed service providers. We see the threat landscape increasing each and every day and many, many high profile breaches, he told ARN. Governments and enterprises of the world are under a huge amount of pressure to keep us cyber safe. As part of that, Fortinet was committed to training a million people by 2026 and our academic partner program, which is a global partner program, helps towards that outcome and objective. As the repertoire ages, as the world changes, we will have ever fewer Fischers and Honecks, and ever more Duenasas, Lims, and Chos. The outcome seems to me unpredictable. It could be a refreshment and it could be a dilution. Ivan Fischer A dozen years ago, Ivan Fischer came to Carnegie Hall with his Budapest Festival Orchestra for a Dvorak program. So revelatory was their performance of Dvoraks Eighth Symphony that, when he scheduled the same piece with the New York Philharmonic two seasons later, I requested permission to attend the rehearsals. The Philharmonic graciously complied. I wanted to see what difference the different orchestra would make. Fischers Dvorak was steeped in Central European tradition. The musics rusticities of song and dance were deliciously rendered. There were also details I had never noticed before like the bewitching pianissimo chord unexpectedly ending the scherzo, revealed as a whispered residue preparing the sublimities of the finale. In rehearsal, the Philharmonic players these days, an exceptionally youthful group without much inter-generational continuity were amazingly quick to do Fischers bidding. Everything was there except the boisterous passage in which the Budapest players had burst into song (its an orchestra that sometimes sings). I enjoyed the Philharmonic performance but as a facsimile. What was different about the Budapest players (handpicked by Fischer) can be summarized in three words: they felt it. These observations returned last night when Fischer and his orchestra visited Carnegie with Mahlers Third Symphony. There are various ways to approach this protean 100-minute work. Fischers Mahler doesnt sound like Bernsteins Mahler, or Boulezs Mahler, or Abbados Mahler. I would say that its more Mahlerian, stylistically, than other versions we are likely to encounter nowadays. As with the Dvorak performance, the lilt and affection of Mahlers dance gestures were ravishingly understood. Near the beginning of the piece, the sepulchral chords in the low brass, softly attacked, evinced an existential shudder. These were moments in which the players were collaborative. The symphonys 25-minute Adagio finale was less stressed, more lyrically supple, more convincingly paced than in any other reading Ive encountered. Born in 1951, Fischer studied in Budapest and Vienna. He embodies a lineage. One week previous to Fischers Mahler, Manfred Honeck conducted Beethoven and Richard Strauss with the New York Philharmonic. Born in 1958, Honeck is Austrian and was once a violinist in the Vienna Philharmonic. He, too, embodies lineage and tradition. Also, like Fischer, he at the same time goes his own way: his interpretations are personal. He fastidiously extracts details of texture and accentuation. He commands a rare plasticity of phrasing. Conducting his own suite from Richard Strausss Elektra, he seamlessly bound 35 minutes of music calibrated to yield a single, cumulative climax exactly what Fischer had achieved in the Mahler finale. Honecks soloist in the Beethoven Violin Concerto was 23 -year-old Maria Duenas, with whom he has also recorded the piece. Compared to Honeck and Fischer, she is an immensely gifted young musician who belongs to no tradition. Her Beethoven is fearlessly original. Her command of the instrument is consummate. In these respects, she reminds me of the celebrated young Korean pianists Yunchan Lim and Seong-Jin Cho. As the repertoire ages, as the world changes, we will have ever fewer Fischers and Honecks, and ever more Duenasas, Lims, and Chos. The outcome seems to me unpredictable. It could be a refreshment and it could be a dilution. The Beethoven Violin Concerto, for many listeners, peaks with a G-minor pianissimo episode preceding the first movement recapitulation. Duenass interpretation, here and elsewhere, beginning to end, was effusively expressive. Something was lost, I thought. A great performance of this piece, to my ears, is Joseph Szigetis 1932 recording with Bruno Walter. Szigeti could not play the fiddle as beautifully as Duenas does. But he achieves a stillness in this passage that feels fathomless. You can hear it here at 11:05. And you can hear Duenas here at 13:00. How I wish New Yorkers could regularly encounter Ivan Fischer or Manfred Honeck. But that is another topic for another time. For more on Manfred Honeck and Seong-Jin Cho, click here. For more on Yunchan Lim, click here. For an appreciation of an enduring French piano lineage, chick here. For more on Joseph Szigeti, click here. After five years, the landmark trial under the national security law ended. The founder of Apple Daily was charged with conspiracy and sedition. Chief Executive Lee praised the severe sentence that brings relief to all. Cardinal Zen was in the courtroom with Lays wife. Eight other defendants were also sentenced. Attention now turns to the trials of Chow Hang-tung, Lee Cheuk-yan, and Albert Ho. Hong Kong (AsiaNews) Media mogul Jimmy Lai, one of Hong Kong's foremost critics of China, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison, ending a landmark trial, and not just symbolically, brought under the national security law Beijing imposed on the former British colony. While local authorities hailed the verdict against the Catholic activist, who is also a British citizen, NGOs, human rights groups, and Western governments (including the UK) have harshly criticised it. Lai was convicted on two counts, colluding with foreign forces and publication of seditious material, a decision praised by Hong Kongs Chief Executive John Lee, who said that Jimmy Lai committed numerous heinous crimes, and his evil deeds were beyond measure, while the severe sentence "brings great relief to all. The 20-year sentence falls within the harshest tier of grave offences, the three judges said. In addition to Lai, six senior former Apple Daily staffers, an activist, and a paralegal were sentenced to prison terms ranging from six to ten years. For Lai's son, Sebastien, the sentence "is devastating for our family and life-threatening for my father" and marked the "total destruction" of the Hong Kong legal system. Dozens of Lai's supporters lined up for several days to secure a seat in the courtroom, with dozens of police officers, drug-sniffing dogs, and police vehicles, including an armoured vehicle and a bomb disposal van, deployed in the area. As he entered the courtroom for the verdict, he smiled and greeted his wife Teresa and, next to her, Cardinal Joseph Zen, Bishop Emeritus of Hong Kong, one of the strongest voices against the violation of human rights and religious freedom in China. Speaking to AsiaNews, Father Franco Mella, a PIME missionary and well-known human rights defender who a few days ago renewed his focus on the issue of political prisoners with a sit-in, stressed that the sentence affects not only Jimmy Lai but also a significant number of people associated with the Apple Daily. In total, nine people who worked for the newspaper are jailed. In Hong Kong, people are dejected, he said, but have not failed to provide "moral support" for Lai and the other defendants. During the trial, many lined up to attend and "provide him visible support," even staying outside the courthouse for two or three days and nights to get in. The verdict, the missionary noted, is not going to be the end of the story. We have a duty to continue speaking out and bearing witness, especially as more trials are set to start amid the culpable silence of some institutions. Indeed, for Father Mella, this issue concerns Hong Kong Christians as well. There have been no expressions of support for Jimmy Lai, and this leaves us perplexed, but that doesn't mean we should stop. On the contrary, as a grassroots organisation, we must continue to insist. I, for example, have often spoken about this situation in Mass in recent weeks. The China Human Rights Defenders (CHRD) group also reacted to the verdict, calling for the release of the 78-year-old Catholic leader and editor of Apple Daily, imprisoned under Hong Kongs infamous national security legislation. Given his age and the length of the sentence, Lai is at heightened risk of dying in prison, reads a report by the group. Jimmy Lai has committed no crime and should be released immediately, said Angeli Datt, CHRDs research and advocacy coordinator. The Catholic entrepreneur, who turned 78 last 8 December, and has been in prison since 18 December 2020, and his newspaper, Apple Daily, have become a symbol of the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong. He was first arrested in February 2020, then released on bail, which was revoked in December of the same year when he was charged with national security and other offences. In April and December 2021, he was convicted of human rights violations related to his participation in peaceful anti-government protests, and sentenced to 17 months in prison, followed in December 2022 by another 69 months on trumped-up fraud charges. Lai's already poor health, the CHRD notes, has been compounded by prolonged solitary confinement. He suffers from diabetes, hypertension, cataracts, and heart problems and has spent more than 1,800 days in solitary confinement. According to his daughter, his health worsened during his years in prison, and the family has never been informed of the medical care he received. The CHRD notes that several human rights defenders have died in custody in China, denied proper care, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo, the revered Tibetan monk Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, and Cao Shunli. So far no Chinese leader or official has been held accountable for these deaths. The eight defendants who were convicted along with Lai include publisher Cheung Kim-hung (six years and nine months), associate publisher Chan Pui-man (seven years), and editorial writer Yeung Ching-kee (seven years and three months). Editor-in-chief Ryan Law, executive editor-in-chief Lam Man-chung, and editorial writer Fung Wai-kong all received 10-year jail terms. Two activists linked to the international lobby group Stand with Hong Kong, who also testified against Lai, possibly under torture, were given custodial sentences. Wayland Chan got six years and three months, while Andy Li received seven years and three months. Lai and the other co-defendants appeared impassive as judges read out their sentences. In the coming weeks, three other activists are expected to be convicted: Chow Hang-tung (40), Lee Cheuk-yan (68), and Albert Ho (74) faced charges of conspiracy to "subvert state power" under the national security law. During the trial, Ho pleaded guilty, while the other two pleaded not guilty. All three were members of the now-dissolved pro-democracy Hong Kong Alliance, which ceased its activities in 2021. The group organised the annual vigil for the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing. Jailed in 2021, all three face up to 10 years in prison. "The important thing," Father Mella continues, "is not to allow silence to fall on these events, on the trials," even though there is little optimism about the verdict and a conviction is highly likely. By applying constant pressure and insisting on talking about the case, an amnesty or release for good behaviour could be achieved, the clergyman believes. For leaders in Hong Kong (and Beijing), it would be acceptable to uphold the conviction and the national security law, while simultaneously granting freedom to the prisoners. We shall insist on this, he said. In my opinion, the Church should also make its voice heard. The more people talk about it, the greater the hope. by Shafique Khokhar The Punjab government has brought back the Basant cultural festival. Celebrated from 5 to 9 February, it enlivened the city, reviving tourism and the local economy. Strict security measures were in place to prevent accidents that led to the 2007 ban, which was also supported by the Muslim clergy. Activists and citizens enthusiastically welcomed the return. Lahore (AsiaNews) - Nineteen years after the last time, the Punjab government announced the Basant festival, the Punjabi spring festival associated with kite flying. Officially starting on 5 February at 11:50 pm, it ended on 9 February at 5 am. The festival was celebrated only in the city of Lahore, which was enlivened by enthusiasm during the three days and flooded its streets, sharing the joy of Basant 2026. For the occasion, the Punjab government implemented strict safety regulations to ensure a fun and safe experience. In 2007, the then Pakistan Muslim League (Q) government imposed a ban on Basant due to gunfire in the air in some areas and deaths due to non-compliance with standard operating procedures. But the main reason was the position of the Muslim clergy, who announced a fatwa against Basant, associating it with the Hindu community. This was a completely erroneous observation, as Basant is a cultural festival, not a religious one. The festival includes various events and activities, such as kite flying, concerts and shows. Foreigners from Lahore rented the roofs of buildings in areas such as Mochi Gate and Delhi Gate for private parties and meetings with various celebrities. The government took all possible measures to ensure the safety and rescue of citizens. From 6 to 8 February, trains and buses on the Orange Line metro line ran free of charge; in addition, the government installed safety bars on all motorcycles for safety during the Basant festival. Over 2,200 registered traders sold kites and strings in Lahore. Participants enjoyed the celebrations alongside many celebrities spotted at events and dances, with singing and drumming adding to the atmosphere of excitement and joy. Basant also transformed the city into an international tourist destination, with hotels almost fully booked for visitors. However, the Punjab government halted the Basant celebrations after the bomb blast in Islamabad on 6 February. Speaking to AsiaNews, social activist Rojar Randhawa said: "The Basant Festival in Lahore has truly brought colour, joy and cultural spirit back to our city. The celebrations reflect hope, harmony and responsible fun. It was a courageous and admirable move by the Punjab government; festivals like Basant are the lifeblood of social joy and the economy. Randhawa thanked the government for reviving Basant in Lahore and for its commitment to good governance throughout Punjab. Initiatives like this strengthen our cultural identity and spread happiness among the people." "At the same time, it is our collective responsibility to strictly follow all standard operating procedures issued by the government. Let us celebrate Basant in a safe, legal and responsible manner, ensuring the protection of human life, birds and public property. By adhering to safety guidelines, we can keep Basant a joyful festival for all. I hope the government will continue to celebrate Basant every year if citizens follow standard operating procedures, he added. Activist Kashif Aslam also spoke to AsiaNews: The whole of Punjab needs festivals like this, because people are full of frustrations and only social events can erase them. Basant is a symbol of coexistence and harmony," he added. This nation had almost forgotten what it meant to breathe freely as a sovereign state. Initiatives like these revive our collective confidence and reaffirm that we are a free nation with a distinct identity. We admire the Punjab government and look forward to the resumption of such activities throughout Pakistan. Today's news: Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. Leaders in Delhi and Kuala Lumpur intend to strengthen trade ties. The 9th Congress will be held in North Korea by the end of February. Riyadh has announced a major package of investments in Syria, ranging from energy to telecommunications. JAPAN In the elections, the governing coalition of outgoing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triumphs, winning the early vote by a large margin over its opponents. A few hours after the polls closed, the right-wing leader's NHK party won over 300 seats out of a total of 465 in Parliament, with another 31 going to Ishin's allies. This result exceeded expectations and will allow her to pursue a programme focused on the economy, tax cuts and strengthening military capabilities. With over two-thirds of the seats in the House of Representatives, she will be able to pass legislation without fear of a veto by the House of Councillors. Despite the cold and snow in the country, turnout was 56.2%, 2.4% higher than in the 2024 elections and the highest since 2014. THAILAND In Thailand's elections, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's conservative Bhumjaithai party won by a larger margin than expected, with talks on forming a new government expected in the coming days. With 94% of the votes counted, the ruling faction secured at least 193 of the 500 seats in Parliament. The People's Party followed with 118 seats and the Pheu Thai Party came third with 74. Anutin called the elections in December after less than 100 days in office and sought to capitalise on the wave of nationalism generated by the conflict with Cambodia. IRAN Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi, repeatedly imprisoned for her campaign for women's rights, has been sentenced to a new seven-and-a-half-year prison term. The 53-year-old activist staged a week-long hunger strike, which ended yesterday, at the detention centre in Mashhad where she is being held. The Foreign Ministry declined to comment, amid renewed repression of dissent following anti-government protests in December. INDIA - MALAYSIA Leaders in Delhi and Kuala Lumpur intend to strengthen trade ties and find new avenues of cooperation in areas such as semiconductors and defence. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim met yesterday in Putrajaya, pledging to deepen relations in trade and investment, food security, healthcare and tourism. Modi is on a two-day visit to the Southeast Asian nation, the first since the two countries elevated their ties to a global strategic partnership in August 2024. NORTH KOREA North Korea will convene its 9th Congress at the end of February in Pyongyang. This was reported yesterday by state media, without specifying the exact date. The ruling Workers' Party's political bureau held a meeting over the weekend to prepare for the event, including the agenda and timing. Leader Kim Jong Un recently visited various military and economic facilities, including a cruise missile launch site and a large-scale greenhouse. SYRIA - SAUDI ARABIA Over the weekend, Saudi Arabia announced a major investment package in Syria covering energy, aviation, real estate and telecommunications, as the kingdom positions itself as one of the main supporters of the new leadership in Damascus. Riyadh has launched a fund (Elaf) that will commit around billion to develop two airports in the Syrian city of Aleppo in several phases. The joint venture will be 51% owned by the Syrian side and 49% by the Saudi side. RUSSIA - CHINA - UNITED STATES According to a report in Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Russia is experiencing local energy production shortages in several regions and plans to increase the necessary power by 10% by 2042. In contrast, China exceeds the generating capacity of the United States by eight times according to last year's calculations, with the opening of many new power plants adding 545 gigawatts to reach 3,891, while Washington added 64. TAJIKISTAN - AFGHANISTAN The director of Tajikistan's anti-drug trafficking agency, Zafar Samad, has announced that by 2025, the volume of drugs confiscated at the border with Afghanistan, in the regions of Khatlon and Gorno-Badakshan, will have increased by one and a half times compared to 2024. The value reached 2,742 kg compared to 1,824 kg previously, with an increase of one tonne, clearly demonstrating the continued rise in drug smuggling from Afghanistan. by Vladimir Rozanskij Never before have the Americans tried so hard to show Central Asians how mutual cooperation can compensate for the inevitable irritation of Russia and China. The approach of the current Trump administration is to put ideological issues aside and focus on economic advantages, finding much greater harmony with the historical satraps of the region. Bishkek (AsiaNes) - The B5+1 economic forum held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in recent days was also attended by the chairman of Tajikistan's State Committee for Investment, Sulton Rakhimzoda, who highlighted the great economic and investment potential of the whole of Central Asia, emphasising the interest in expanding cooperation with the United States, which was the main theme of the entire conference. The conference was attended by numerous representatives of state bodies, the business world and international organisations from the region and the US. In his speech, Rakhimzoda emphasised the wealth of natural resources and crucial infrastructure that relate to the entire region rather than to individual states, and that the Central Asia-US format is the ideal dimension for intense and fruitful cooperation, including at the administrative level, in the agri-food complex and industry. The most significant potential is human, young and dynamically evolving, which must be helped to develop through the exchange of information with international partners, starting with the Americans and their large trade and service companies. The establishment of increasingly close relations with the Americans, Europeans and Westerners in general may present Central Asia with some very complicated choices, with the risk of provoking the opposition of Russia and China, or disappointing Trump's ambitions and thus remaining dependent on Moscow and Beijing. This is the view of Carnegie Centre expert Temur Umarov, analysing the outcomes of the Bishkek summit, which confirmed a trend that has been underway for months, with Donald Trump's meetings with the presidents of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan and billion-dollar deals beginning to take shape more and more seriously. Never before have the Americans made such an effort to show Central Asians how mutual cooperation can compensate for the inevitable irritation of their two large Eurasian neighbours. It therefore remains to be seen how effective the new approach will be or whether it will fail in the face of a reality that is difficult to change, as we have seen in Trump's attempts to stop the Russian-Ukrainian war, notes Umarov. After all, the Russians and Chinese have always considered the Americans to be their real competitors throughout the post-Soviet space, much more so than the Europeans, Turks or Indians. Central Asian leaders have always been sensitive to American pressure, even on issues far removed from the reality of these countries, such as the focus on democratic values. The approach of the current Trump administration is therefore setting aside ideological issues to focus on mutual economic advantages, immediately finding much greater harmony with the historical satraps of Central Asia. According to Umarov, nothing can now distract the presidents of the region from their focus on the White House, neither the American president's vague knowledge of these lands nor the introduction of additional tariffs, which currently stand at 25% for Kazakhstan and 10% for the other four countries, publicly sidelining Soros, non-governmental organisations and the fight against climate change. While distancing themselves from the previous Biden administration, the current American proposals do not differ greatly from those already in place in previous years with the Central Asian states, starting with their interest in rare earths. Now everything hinges on the effective implementation of the many projects, while local presidents compete to see who can most effectively praise their colleague in Washington. So far, Kazakhstan's Tokaev is clearly in the lead, having described Trump as a great leader and a true statesman, sent from heaven to restore common sense and the traditions we all share, both in US domestic politics and in relations with foreign countries such as ours, with the implicit blessing of Putin and Xi Jinping, who know they will remain in power far longer than any American president. Champion local news. Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told. 9 February 2026 11:02 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The date of the next court session in the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan has been announced. Azernews reports that the trial will continue on February 10. Vardanyan is charged under multiple articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious offenses. It should be recalled that the trial was postponed indefinitely on December 30. The postponement was due to the fact that the court panel chaired by Judge Zeynal Agayev and composed of Judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (with Gunel Samadova as reserve judge) was engaged in hearings related to another criminal case involving 15 Armenian citizens. Meanwhile, on February 5, the court delivered verdicts in a number of high-profile cases involving Armenian-origin war criminals. The following sentences were issued: Arayik Harutyunyan life imprisonment Levon Mnatsakanyan life imprisonment David Manukyan life imprisonment Davit Ishkhanyan life imprisonment David Babayan life imprisonment Arkady Ghukasyan 20 years in prison Bako Sahakyan 20 years in prison Madat Babayan 19 years in prison The continuation of the Vardanyan trial comes amid an ongoing judicial process addressing crimes committed during Armenias occupation and the consequences of the conflict. 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Legal decisions are rarely just legal, timing is almost never accidental, and gestures aimed at domestic audiences tend to echo well beyond national borders. This is the context in which a recent ruling by an Armenian court, recognising claims that the dissolution of the former Armenian separatist entity in Garabagh was made under pressure, must be understood. The reaction of the Western Azerbaijan Community is therefore not a disruption of the peace process between Baku and Yerevan, but an early warning that selective legal revisionism, cloaked in judicial language, risks unsettling a carefully balanced diplomatic trajectory. Since the August 2025 summit in Washington, held with the participation of US President Donald Trump, AzerbaijanArmenia relations have entered their most constructive phase in decades. That meeting paved the way for the initial paraphing of a peace treaty, the expansion of mutual confidence-building measures, and renewed discussions on restoring economic and transport links across the South Caucasus. Subsequent talks in Abu Dhabi confirmed that this was not a one-off gesture but a sustained diplomatic course. It is precisely because of this momentum that the Armenian courts decision has raised concern. At a time when the international community is focused on consolidating peace, any move that appears to cast doubt on Azerbaijans restoration of sovereignty in 2023 inevitably carries political significance. The ruling centres on Samvel Shahramanyan, the last figure associated with the now-defunct separatist structure that once operated in Garabagh. By accepting claims that the decision to dissolve that entity was taken under coercion, the Armenian court has effectively introduced a narrative that retrospectively questions the legitimacy of the dissolution itself. This is not a technical legal issue. It indirectly challenges a sovereign process carried out within Azerbaijans internationally recognised borders and risks reviving political constructs that the peace process was designed to put to rest. It is from this standpoint that the Western Azerbaijan Community has posed a fundamental question: on what legal or moral basis can a court in one state pass judgement on the internal sovereign actions of another? The answer lies less in law than in politics. Armenia is entering an election year, and domestic political pressure is intensifying. Revanchist groups opposed to reconciliation, including hardline nationalist circles and influential diaspora networks, have increased their efforts to constrain the governments room for manoeuvre. In such an environment, judicial institutions often become tools of political signalling. The court ruling serves as a gesture to sceptical voters, offering reassurance that concessions have not gone too far, while stopping short of an outright rejection of the peace process. When the Western Azerbaijan Community warns of revanchist activity, it is pointing precisely to this phenomenon: peace being gradually diluted by election-driven populism. One of the most striking elements of the Communitys statement is its focus on legal selectivity. If Armenian courts are prepared to revisit decisions allegedly taken under pressure, then the absence of any legal reckoning with the mass deportation of Western Azerbaijanis between 1987 and 1991 becomes impossible to ignore. Entire communities were expelled, religious and cultural sites were destroyed, and a centuries-old presence was erased, yet no judicial process has addressed these events. The implication is clear: justice is being applied selectively, guided by political convenience rather than universal legal principles. This inconsistency does not merely affect bilateral relations; it undermines the credibility of legal institutions in the eyes of international mediators. The immediate impact of the ruling should not be overstated. Armenia has not formally withdrawn from negotiations, nor has it abandoned the commitments made in Washington and Abu Dhabi. The risk is not strategic collapse but tactical erosion. Each such decision chips away at trust, introduces uncertainty, and provides ammunition to those who argue that reconciliation is inherently fragile. This matters particularly as US Vice-President JD Vance prepares to visit Yerevan and then Baku. At a moment when Washingtons diplomatic engagement is expected to reinforce stability, mixed signals from domestic institutions complicate the message. It is also essential to clarify what the Western Azerbaijan Community is not doing. It is not advancing territorial claims, nor does it question Armenias sovereignty or internationally recognised borders. Its agenda focuses on the right of return, protection of rights, and historical justice, and most importantly, all these issues are grounded in international human rights norms. By issuing its statement now, the Community seeks to alert international actors to potentially destabilising developments, to protect the peace process from unexpected sabotage, and to ensure that reconciliation is not built on historical distortion. Viewed in this light, the statement is less a provocation than a stabilising intervention. Peace processes rarely fail through dramatic reversals; more often, they are weakened by incremental steps that reopen settled questions under the guise of legality. If Azerbaijan and Armenia are to move from conflict management to durable peace, courts and politicians alike must resist the temptation to instrumentalise the past. As the Western Azerbaijan Community has made clear, peace cannot be sustained through selective memory or legal ambiguity. It requires consistency, accountability and a genuine commitment to move forward rather than sideways. 9 February 2026 14:51 (UTC+04:00) By AzerNEWS Staff The world's eyes are currently on US Vice President J D Vance's visit to the South Caucasus and his talks with Yerevan and Baku, the parties that have been at war for more than 30 years. The visit also comes against a backdrop of Russia's weakening presence in the region and rising tensions between Iran and the US. Therefore, JD Vances expected visit to Armenia and Azerbaijan is more than a routine diplomatic stop. It reflects Washingtons renewed attention to the South Caucasus at a moment when the regions strategic weight is quietly but decisively increasing. For a region long treated as peripheral, the symbolism alone is significant. Yet the visit also fits into a broader American recalibration that links security, energy and geopolitical balance at a time of shifting power dynamics. At its core, the visit is about influence. The United States is seeking to reinforce its political footprint in the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalisation process and to reassert itself as a relevant mediator. In recent years, peace talks were largely shaped by Brussels and Moscow. Under Donald Trump, however, Washington moved more assertively to reclaim a leading role, and that impulse appears to persist. Vances presence would signal that the US does not intend to be sidelined in decisions that will shape the post-war order in the South Caucasus. Timing matters. The visit comes as Russias grip on the region weakens, Irans regional posture grows more assertive, and Europes energy security is being fundamentally redesigned. Against this backdrop, Azerbaijan occupies a dual role in Washingtons thinking: not only as a party to a conflict, but as a strategic partner in energy supply chains and east-west connectivity. This distinction explains why Baku features so prominently in American calculations, even as Washington balances its engagement with Yerevan. The substance of Vances discussions is likely to centre first on the prospects for a peace agreement. Issues such as border delimitation and demarcation, the opening of regional communications, including the TRIPP framework, and mutual recognition of territorial integrity will be unavoidable. For the United States, peace is not simply a moral objective but a security guarantee. A stable South Caucasus reduces the risk of renewed violence that could draw in external powers and complicate American interests. Security, however, goes beyond the peace table. Washington remains keen to prevent another military escalation and to shape the regions evolving security architecture. In Armenia, this may involve discussions about recalibrating security dependence, reducing reliance on Russia and deepening cooperation with Western institutions. Such shifts are politically sensitive but increasingly unavoidable as Moscows credibility as a security guarantor erodes. In Baku, the emphasis will almost certainly tilt towards energy and connectivity. The Southern Gas Corridor, green energy projects and the Middle Corridor linking Asia to Europe are all of strategic importance to the US and its allies. Vance is expected to underline Azerbaijans growing role in Europes energy diversification, a role that has gained urgency amid global supply disruptions and geopolitical fragmentation. Regional dynamics will also hover over the talks. Irans policies and Russias declining influence are unlikely to be addressed head-on, but they will shape the tone and priorities of the discussions. Washingtons overriding objective is to prevent the South Caucasus from drifting into an anti-Western alignment. In this context, engagement with Azerbaijan is likely to remain pragmatic and balanced rather than ideological. Taken as a whole, Vances visit appears less about transforming the status quo than about preserving it. The United States currently lacks the leverage to dictate a final settlement or reclaim a dominant mediating role. Yet the visit carries political weight. It is a signal to rivals, particularly Russia and Iran, that Washington remains present and attentive. There is also a domestic dimension. Vance is widely viewed as a potential presidential contender, and outreach to influential constituencies matters. The Armenian lobby, Christian networks and Congress continue to wield considerable influence in US politics. Building goodwill in Yerevan may therefore serve both foreign policy and personal political calculations. Ultimately, the visit should be read as a message rather than a breakthrough. It says less about imminent change and more about intent: the United States is reminding the region, and its competitors, that it still has a stake in how the South Caucasus evolves. 9 February 2026 17:44 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The recent Armenian court ruling linked to Samvel Shahramanyan, the last representative of the now-defunct Armenian separatist administration in Karabakh, has sparked intense debate not because of its legal substance, but because of the way it has been politically framed and publicly weaponised. Although formally a domestic judicial matter, the ruling has been portrayed by certain actors as reopening questions that, in reality, have long been settled both on the ground and under international law. This controversy has unfolded alongside street rallies by Karabakh Armenians in Yerevan, deliberately timed to coincide with the visit of US Vice President JD Vance. The synchronisation added a symbolic and emotional layer, prompting speculation about intent, political signalling and the broader impact on the fragile ArmeniaAzerbaijan normalisation process. According to Armenian activist and public figure Ishkhan Verdyan, much of the uproar stems from a fundamental misinterpretation of the case itself. As he spoke to AzerNEWS, the lawsuit filed by Shahramanyan was not about borders, sovereignty or Azerbaijan at all. Since this is a rather sensitive case, it's worth taking a closer look at the very essence of what happened. Samvel Shakhramanyan filed a lawsuit in a Yerevan court over the inclusion of language in Armenian textbooks stating that the so-called Karabakh (Artsakh) Republic ceased to exist with his signature. The essence of the lawsuit was to remove his name from the textbooks. The court rejected the claim, ruling that the textbooks did not contradict established facts and reflected the generally accepted position as of 2023. Verdyan stresses that the ruling did not touch on questions of sovereignty or interstate legality. The court rejected Shahramanyan's claim, stating that the textbooks' content did not contradict established facts and was consistent with the generally accepted position as of 2023. The controversy, he argues, arose from selective reading of the courts reasoning rather than from the verdict itself. The key point was not only the decision itself but also its reasoning, where the court noted that decisions made under duress cannot be considered legal. This very fragment was taken out of context and used in the public rhetoric of Shahramanyan's supporters as alleged proof that the court invalidated the signing of the document dissolving Artsakh. From Azerbaijans perspective, Verdyan underlines, the ruling has no legal or political relevance. Azerbaijan has never recognised the separatist administration in Khankendi, nor its residual structures operating in Yerevan, as legal entities capable of producing binding consequences. Shahramanyan signed a decree dissolving the so-called Artsakh Republic, but for Azerbaijan, this document has no and cannot have any legal value. Azerbaijan has never considered either the separatist structures in Khankendi or their current remnants in Yerevan as legal entities whose signatures could generate legal consequences. For Baku, such an entity simply does not exist. Nor does the ruling alter Armenias own state policy. Nikol Pashinyan's statement about the need for the Republic of Armenia to renounce Artsakh clearly demonstrates that Shahramanyan's decisions, or non-decisions, carry no real weight in the Armenian political arena and are not the subject of state debate. Yet despite the formal dissolution of the entity, its former institutions continue to operate symbolically in Yerevana phenomenon Verdyan describes as political inertia rather than substantive authority. At the same time, a paradoxical situation persists: all state organs of the so-called Artsakh de facto continue to exist in Yerevan. They declare political activity and hold parliamentary and state assemblies on Armenian territory. He adds that these structures exist largely in a virtual political space. Thus, this quasi-state entity continues to exist in a virtual, symbolic form. Individual court decisions no longer change the essence of what is happening. The grandiose interpretation of this judicial act is more noise than a genuine change in political or legal reality. Verdyan warns, however, that such symbolic gestures can still carry risks for regional normalisation if misused politically. From his perspective, the deeper issue is perceptual rather than legal. From a political perspective, it must be acknowledged that Armenia continues to pay no attention to how similar processes are perceived in Azerbaijan. The existence of another statewith its own interests, principles, and sovereign visionis effectively ignored. He cautions that court rulings, as official state documents, can resurface in sensitive international contexts. A court decision is a binding, state-issued document, reflecting the state's position, not a private opinion. Under certain circumstances, such texts can surface in international affairs, contract disputes, or political crises, and play an extremely negative role. This, Verdyan argues, reflects both fragility and transition within Armenias current leadership. This demonstrates the weakness of Nikol Pashinyan's current position, but also the incompleteness of the process of political rethinking. Still, he believes that time, rather than escalation, will ultimately resolve these contradictions. Inertial decisions and strange constructs will continue to emerge, but they will gradually disappear. However, this will require radical steps, which Pashinyan has so far refused to take. As for the rallies timed around JD Vances visit, Verdyan downplays their broader significance. As for the rallies timed to coincide with J.D. Vance's visit to Armenia, in my opinion, they shouldn't be given much significance. He describes street protests as a routine feature of Armenian political life. Street protests have long been commonplace in Armenia, and their sheer number says nothing about political dynamics. More revealing, he argues, is what these protests fail to achieve. Even in such situations, the opposition is unable to consolidate any significant number of supporters. Consequently, this rally will likely become another passing event, incapable of influencing either the political agenda or the real processes in the country. In the final analysis, the Shahramanyan ruling neither revives a defunct separatist entity nor alters Armenias foreign policy trajectory. Instead, it exposes unresolved internal contradictions, symbolic inertia and a lingering failure to fully internalise Azerbaijans sovereignty over Karabakh. The surrounding noise may generate headlines, but it does not change realities on the ground. Seen in a broader regional context, the episode also intersects with unresolved questions of displacement and historical justice. For many in Azerbaijan, these debates echo the enduring tragedy of Western Azerbaijanishundreds of thousands forcibly displaced from the territory of todays Armenia during the twentieth century. Their continued exclusion, and Armenias reluctance to engage meaningfully with their internationally recognised right of return, remains a blind spot in discussions on reconciliation. International human rights law affirms the right of displaced persons to return to their homes in safety and dignity. The Western Azerbaijan Communitys Concept of Return is framed precisely on this basis, seeking a legally binding framework that enables return while respecting modern state sovereignty. In this sense, the Shahramanyan ruling and the protests surrounding it are symptomatic of unfinished business in the South Caucasus: how to reconcile historical justice with present-day sovereignty, and how to anchor peace not only in ceasefires and agreements, but in the rights of all displaced peoples to restore their lives, heritage and communities. 9 February 2026 13:21 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Since the start of its operations, the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Center has trained more than 380 highly qualified cybersecurity specialists, while over 10,000 individuals have participated in various training programs overall. As reported by AzerNEWS, Shahin Aliyev, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency, made the remarks while speaking to journalists during the 6th Graduation Day of the Cybersecurity Center. Aliyev noted that 86 percent of the centers graduates are currently employed, describing this as a clear indicator of the centers tangible contribution to the labor market. The center works closely with local higher education institutions, as well as with both the public and private sectors. At the same time, significant steps have been taken toward the development of locally produced cybersecurity solutions, and to date, five domestic products have been introduced to the market, he said. Aliyev also emphasized that plans are in place to roll out cybersecurity awareness and hands-on initiatives across all educational institutions nationwide in the near future. In addition, the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Centers model has already attracted international attention. Discussions are currently underway with Kazakhstan and other countries regarding the export of this model, he added. 9 February 2026 13:56 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. Under the unified country pavilion mechanism, 46 companies were selected from 93 applications and participated under the Made in Azerbaijan brand in six international exhibitions during the year. Under the unified country pavilion mechanism, 46 companies were selected from 93 applications and participated under the Made in Azerbaijan brand in six international exhibitions during the year. These included... Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 9 February 2026 15:42 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Azerbaijani products are being showcased at international exhibitions and fairs for foreign goods held in Beijing, organized jointly by Chinas Ministry of Commerce and the Beijing Municipal Peoples Government. As reported by AzerNEWS, citing Azerbaijan's Economy Ministry, the events are taking place on the eve of the Chinese New Year and are held under the slogan A Big Market for All: Export to China. The exhibitions are designed as a shopping-festival-style showcase of international premium products. With the support of Azerbaijans Trade Representation in China, the Azerbaijan Trade House in Beijing is presenting products manufactured under the Made in Azerbaijan brand at the capitals Ritan and Wanyuan-Wangfujing Outlet shopping centers. The dedicated pavilions feature Azerbaijani wines and other alcoholic beverages, pomegranate juices, compotes, jams, and tea. Visitors can also explore a selection of traditional Azerbaijani sweets and souvenirs reflecting the countrys national culture. The series of fairs will run for six days and is being held across Beijings Chaoyang and Tongzhou districts. 9 February 2026 15:06 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Nigar Manafli's solo exhibition "The Heritage of Oil" has solemnly opened at D'Art Gallery in Baku, AzerNEWS reports. The ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Dilara Muzaffarli, art historian, founder and director of D'Art Gallery, who briefly presented the exhibition and extended her best wishes to all attendees for an enjoyable evening. People's Artist of Azerbaijan and distinguished graphic designer, Professor Arif Huseynov, together with Aydin Yagubov, Senior Manager at Turan Drilling, highlighted Nigar Manafli's artistic achievements. They congratulated her on the occasion of her first solo exhibition and conveyed their best wishes for her continued success and forthcoming projects. In turn, the author of the exhibition, Maintenance Superintendent at Central Azeri, Nigar Manafli, expressed her sincere gratitude to the organizers, provided an overview of her personal project "The Heritage of Oil", and thanked all guests for sharing in this significant moment, which she had long anticipated and meticulously prepared for. Following the formal proceedings, attendees were invited to view the exhibition. The event brought together prominent representatives of Azerbaijan's cultural and art figures, professionals from the oil and gas sector, as well as art connoisseurs. "The Heritage of Oil" is a conceptual art project that merges 15 years of professional experience in the oil and gas sector with extensive industrial expertise and the capabilities of modern AI technologies. The project is the creation of Nigar Manafli. Born in 1992, Nigar Manafli graduated in 2013 from the Azerbaijan State University of Oil and Industry with a degree in Geological Engineering. That same year, she embarked on her career as one of Azerbaijan's first female working as the wireline field engineer. For seven years, she worked directly on offshore rigs, engaging in high-risk operations in real production environments. Her responsibilities included handling radioactive materials, explosives during perforation and specialized logging procedures, and managing high-pressure technological processescomplex tasks demanding exceptional expertise, precision, and strict adherence to safety protocols. In 2023, Nigar Manafli was appointed Maintenance Superintendent, becoming the first woman to hold this position. She continues to maintain professional connections with offshore platforms, conducting periodic technical audits and inspections. The years she spent immersed in an environment defined by risk, responsibility, and the raw power of nature gradually shaped a vivid internal visual memory. This memory inspired her to express her experiences through art, giving rise to "The Heritage of Oil", which highlights the often unseen human and emotional aspects of life on offshore platforms. The project captures the hidden dimensions of offshore work: the scale and rhythm of towering metal structures, the quiet weight of responsibility alongside high-risk operations, the force of storms, the stillness of night shifts, and the silent dialogue between people and the sea. By blending technical knowledge with personal recollection, "The Heritage of Oil" transforms industrial experience into a contemporary visual language, encouraging viewers to consider the delicate balance between human effort and technological achievement. As one of Azerbaijan's first public presentations of AI-driven art, the exhibition offers a fresh, personal perspective on the country's rich oil history. The collection features 29 original works and will remain on display until February 10, 2026. 9 February 2026 13:05 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The Nakhchivan railway project will bring significant benefits to both Azerbaijan and the European Union (EU), a representative of the European Commission told Trend, AzerNEWS reports. Recalling the January 2026 visit of Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations at the European Commission, the representative noted that high-level meetings were held in Baku with Azerbaijani ministers and officials to advance EUAzerbaijan relations and reaffirm the EUs support for efforts to normalize and strengthen regional cooperation. The discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, developing connectivity along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, and deepening energy cooperation. There is a shared interest in further developing the EUAzerbaijan partnership, particularly in areas that contribute to regional stability, sustainable economic growth, and enhanced connectivity between Europe and Asia. In this context, an agreement was reached to launch a feasibility study for the Nakhchivan railway project. This investment will translate geopolitical commitments into tangible infrastructure, strengthen the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, and deliver benefits to both Azerbaijan and the European Union, the European Commission representative said. According to the representative, a key EU priority is to support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia through confidence-building measures, while recognizing the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor for regional stability and economic integration, as well as implementing the EUs Interregional Connectivity Agenda. The representative added that within the framework of the EUs Global Gateway initiative and the Interregional Connectivity Agenda, the parties agreed to deepen cooperation in transport, energy, digital technologies, and trade. Our shared objective is to establish sustainable and reliable transport connections that promote economic opportunities, long-term cooperation, and shared prosperity across the region. Together with Azerbaijan, we share an ambitious vision for connectivity development that strengthens peace and stability, modernizes infrastructure, and unlocks the full potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. A concrete example of this cooperation is the recent agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to begin the feasibility study for the Nakhchivan railway project. This project is a key investment to improve mobility and economic flows in Azerbaijan and the wider region and is an integral part of the Trans-Caspian Corridor, with a target transit time of 15 days between Europe and Central Asia, the representative said. The European Commission also emphasized that it views the development of the Nakhchivan railway as a shared strategic priority, transforming geopolitical commitments into concrete infrastructure that can underpin lasting peace and prosperity, while complementing U.S. involvement under the Trump Peace and Prosperity Route Initiative (TRIPP). Alongside investments in hard infrastructure, we will also support the development of soft infrastructure and regulatory alignment measures in line with our Connectivity Agenda, the representative added. 9 February 2026 13:12 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Employees of the Main Drug Control Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) have discovered and seized 21 kilograms of narcotics during a special operation, Azernews reports. According to the MIA, two individuals, 28-year-old Ismayil Muradov and 32-year-old Chingiz Guliyev, were detained in connection with the case. During the operation, law enforcement officers found 21 kilograms of marijuana containing added harmful substances. The investigation established that Muradov and Guliyev had entered into a criminal relationship with an Iranian citizen, whose identity is currently being determined. The suspects reportedly planned to distribute the narcotics by placing them at pre-arranged locations for sale. A criminal case has been initiated on the facts, and by a court decision, a preventive measure of arrest has been chosen against the detained individuals. Event held in Mongolia to promote China's winter tourism Xinhua) 10:38, February 09, 2026 ULAN BATOR, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- An event promoting the winter tourism routes and products from China was held on Friday at the China Cultural Center in Mongolia's capital of Ulan Bator. Hosted by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia, and organized by the China Cultural Center in Ulan Bator and the Mongolian Tourism Association, the event attracted nearly 100 participants, including representatives from tourism departments of China and Mongolia and travel agency heads. This specially designed winter itinerary deeply integrates traditional festival cultural elements, aiming to provide Mongolian tourists with an in-depth journey that combines visual appeal, experiential engagement, and emotional resonance. In his speech, Badral, a representative of the Mongolian Tourism Association, said that China has always been one of the most popular outbound travel destinations for Mongolian tourists. The newly launched itineraries are even more tailored to the interests and habits of Mongolian tourists and are expected to further boost the popularity of travel to China, he added. The event also featured a cultural experience zone, showcasing Chinese ice and snow tourism photography and traditional Spring Festival decorations, allowing guests to experience the visual beauty and cultural charm of winter in China up close. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) 9 February 2026 12:57 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more A delegation led by Patrik Loshevskiy, Executive Director representing Azerbaijans Constituency at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has visited the Aghdam Industrial Park, which is managed by the Economic Zones Development Agency of Azerbaijan. As reported by AzerNEWS, citing the Economic Zones Development Agency under the Ministry of Economy, 32 business entities have so far been granted resident status in the Aghdam Industrial Park, while five entrepreneurs have received non-resident status. Total investments made by entrepreneurs in the park have reached 145.8 million manats, resulting in the creation of nearly 1,000 permanent jobs. Priority in employment is given to residents of Aghdam and the surrounding districts. Currently, 13 enterprises are operating within the industrial park. To date, entrepreneurs have sold products worth a total of 1.4 billion manats, including exports valued at 62.3 million manats. During the visit, IMF representatives also familiarized themselves with the production process at the tobacco manufacturing facility operated by Tabaterra LLC, one of the parks resident companies. 9 February 2026 15:51 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Baku and Tehran are discussing the possibility of restoring passenger communication via the land border, Azernews reports. The issue was raised by Reza Salehi Amiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during a meeting with deputies from Ardabil province. According to him, consultations are underway on reviving cross-border passenger movement, which could give new momentum to people-to-people contacts and regional tourism. The discussions come against the backdrop of broader AzerbaijanIran talks on transport and connectivity. Earlier, the sides addressed plans related to the railway connection from Ardabil, which has been presented by Iranian officials as a potential link to regional transport routes and a tool for boosting bilateral exchanges. In this context, the possible reopening of passenger movement via the land border is seen as complementary to rail initiatives, rather than a standalone step. It should be noted that Azerbaijans land borders have remained closed since March 2020, a measure initially introduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and later extended for security and public health reasons. Any change in the current regime would therefore require a political decision at the highest level. For now, officials frame the talks as exploratory, emphasizing that discussions are aimed at assessing technical, security, and logistical aspects, while keeping expectations cautious. 9 February 2026 12:21 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more India is seeking to purchase liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Azerbaijan as part of efforts to diversify its energy supply sources and meet growing domestic demand, industry officials have said, Azernews reports. Pandiyan T.V., head of the LNG division of Indias state-owned Bharat Petroleum, told The Hindu newspaper on the sidelines of India Energy Week in Goa that the company is in negotiations with the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) on potential LNG purchases. The initiative reflects Indias broader push to secure a variety of long-term energy suppliers amid global market volatility and rising demand for cleaner fuels. Indias energy strategy calls for a significant increase in natural gas use as part of its transition to a lower-carbon fuel mix. Imports of LNG are expected to play a central role, especially as India looks to expand energy access, support power generation and industrial activity, and reduce dependence on pipeline gas and more carbon-intensive fuels. In addition to talks with SOCAR over Azerbaijani LNG, Bharat Petroleum also plans to buy liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from the United States at competitive prices to diversify its supply portfolio and has announced a tender in that regard. The potential cooperation with Azerbaijan builds on recent energy partnerships between the two countries. At India Energy Week 2025, SOCAR signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indias Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), covering areas including crude oil and LNG supply, petroleum product trading, and technical collaboration. This agreement has been seen as a step toward deeper strategic energy engagement between Azerbaijan and India. Indias interest in LNG imports comes amid broader global trends: major energy traders and refiners have signaled growing demand for both LNG and other petroleum products in the countrys expanding energy market. The drive to secure diverse suppliers aligns with Indias long-term goals of energy security and economic resilience. 9 February 2026 09:00 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva I AzerNEWS Morgan McSweeney has stepped down as the United Kingdom Prime Ministers chief of staff following a growing political storm linked to former cabinet minister Peter Mandelson. The resignation comes in the wake of revelations surrounding the Mandelson scandal, which has dominated headlines and sparked intense scrutiny of the governments internal conduct. McSweeney, who has held one of the most senior positions in the Prime Ministers office, announced his departure earlier today, citing the need to allow the administration to focus on governing amid heightened public and media attention. While the full details of McSweeneys involvement remain under investigation, political analysts say his exit reflects the mounting pressure on officials tied to controversies surrounding Mandelson. The scandal has renewed calls for transparency and accountability within the upper echelons of government, with opposition parties demanding a full inquiry. The Prime Ministers office has confirmed that arrangements are underway to appoint an interim chief of staff while a permanent replacement is identified. No further comment has been made by McSweeney. The Mandelson affair, which has seen multiple resignations and widespread media coverage, continues to cast a shadow over the current administration, raising questions about political oversight and internal governance. 9 February 2026 16:37 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Efforts aimed at reopening the Alican border checkpoint on Turkiyes border with Armenia have been intensified, AzerNEWS reports via a Turkish newspaper. According to information published by the Turkish newspaper Yesil Igdr, Igdr Governor Frat Tasolar inspected the ongoing reconstruction and modernization works at the Alican checkpoint, which corresponds to the Margara checkpoint on the Armenian side of the border. During the visit, the governor stated that the restoration process is expected to be completed within a short period of time. The report notes that infrastructure renewal and technical preparation works at the checkpoint are currently progressing at a rapid pace. These include upgrades to border control facilities, road infrastructure, and technical systems required for customs and passenger processing. The reopening of the AlicanMargara checkpoint is viewed as part of the broader normalization process between Turkiye and Armenia, which has gained renewed momentum in recent years. The land border between the two countries has been closed since the early 1990s, with limited openings only for humanitarian purposes, such as the passage of aid following natural disasters. Observers note that restoring the checkpoint could facilitate regional connectivity, trade, and people-to-people contacts, particularly benefiting eastern Turkiye and northern Armenia. The move is also seen as complementary to wider regional efforts to enhance transport links and economic cooperation in the South Caucasus. No official date for the reopening has yet been announced, but Turkish officials have repeatedly signaled readiness to move forward once technical works are finalized and political conditions allow. 9 February 2026 19:59 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more China has urged Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to confront Japans wartime past and avoid actions linked to militarism, following her comments on the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, which honors convicted war criminals alongside Japans war dead, AzerNEWS reports. Speaking in Beijing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo Trials, stressing that Japan should face up to and reflect on its history of aggression, exercise restraint on sensitive historical issues such as Yasukuni, and make a complete break with militarism with real actions. Amnesia of history means betrayal, Lin said, warning that lessons from the past must not be ignored. Takaichis remarks came after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) secured a sweeping victory in Sundays snap elections. During a television appearance, she said she would first seek understanding from Japans ally, the United States, and neighboring countries before considering any visit to the shrine. Ive been trying to prepare an environment, she said, according to Kyodo News. Visits to Yasukuni by Japanese leaders have long provoked strong reactions from China and South Korea, both of which suffered under Japans wartime occupation. The last sitting prime minister to visit the shrine was Shinzo Abe in 2013, a move that also drew criticism from Washington. Takaichis comments coincided with the LDPs unprecedented parliamentary success. The party won 315 seats in the 465-seat lower house, and together with its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, secured a supermajority of 351 seats, allowing legislation to pass even over objections from the upper house. It is the first time in the post-war era that the LDP has achieved such dominance. Reacting to the election outcome, Lin said the results reflected deep-seated structural problems and shifting ideological trends in Japan, calling for reflection by Japanese leaders and the international community. He also urged Tokyo to adhere to the four key political documents governing ChinaJapan relations. 9 February 2026 14:37 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The US House Judiciary Committee has released a report alleging that European Union institutions interfered in at least eight national elections across Europe by exerting pressure on digital platforms in the run-up to key votes, Azernews reports. According to the document, the committee claims that officials from the European Commission held meetings with major online platforms ahead of elections in several EU member states, including the Netherlands (2023 and 2025), France (2024), Germany (2024), Poland (2023), Spain (2023), Belgium (2024), and Ireland (2024 and 2025). The report argues that these engagements went beyond routine regulatory coordination and may have influenced how political content was moderated during sensitive electoral periods. Particular attention is given to Irelands media regulator, Coimisiun na Mean, which is accused of hosting so-called Digital Services Act (DSA) election roundtables. The committee claims these meetings created indirect censorship pressure on platforms, encouraging more aggressive content moderation under the framework of the EUs DSA, especially regarding political speech. The report also references claims related to Romanias annulled 2024 presidential election, stating that TikTok informed EU officials it had found no evidence of a coordinated Russian influence campaign on the platform. The committee notes, however, that this assertion has not been independently verified, and raises concerns about how such conclusions may have shaped regulatory and political responses. Republican members of the committee argue that the findings point to a broader pattern of EU overreach that could undermine democratic processes and freedom of expression, particularly when regulatory bodies interact closely with private platforms during elections. The report frames these actions as part of a growing transatlantic dispute over content moderation, digital regulation, and the balance between combating disinformation and protecting political speech. EU institutions have not formally responded to the reports allegations. Brussels has previously maintained that the Digital Services Act is designed to ensure transparency, platform accountability, and election integrity, not to influence electoral outcomes. A new report by US Republican lawmakers alleges the European Commission has orchestrated a decade-long campaign to censor political speech globally, including on American soil. The accusations, detailed in a 160-page interim staff report released Tuesday (3 February) by the House Judiciary Committee, claim that commission officials held over 100 closed-door meetings with social media platforms since 2020 where regulators had the opportunity to pressure platforms to censor content more aggressively. Though often framed as combating so-called hate speech or disinformation, the commission worked to censor true information and political speech about some of the most important policy debates in recent history including the Covid-19 pandemic, mass migration, and transgender issues, the report states. The document, dramatically titled The Foreign Censorship Threat, Part II, is, according to itself, based on tens of thousands of pages of internal communications from 10 Big Tech companies including Meta, Google, TikTok, and X, obtained under congressional subpoena. The report is likely to intensify debates in Washington and Europe over digital sovereignty, election security, and the role of regulators in shaping online political discourse. 9 February 2026 22:50 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated map on his social media platform Truth Social that depicts Greenland, Canada and Venezuela covered with the United States flag, prompting international attention and controversy, AzerNEWS reports. The image, which was shared without accompanying comment or explanation, appears to be a digitally altered version of a photograph taken during an August 2025 Oval Office meeting with European leaders. In the original photo, Trump and visiting officials were positioned near a map of Ukraine; in the AI-generated version, that map is replaced with one showing the American flag over much of North America and parts of South America. The doctored visual also shows several prominent world leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gathered around Trumps desk observing the altered map. 9 February 2026 23:49 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva The rapid expansion of artificial-intelligence infrastructure is triggering a global memory chip shortage, as factories prioritize chips for hyperscalers over those used in laptops and smartphones, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media. The shortage is expected to have far-reaching global ramifications. The worlds two largest memory chipmakers, South Korean companies Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, are posting record sales. New memory chip plants are being announced in countries including Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan, while China, facing U.S. export controls, is racing to catch up in memory technology. This trend is already pushing up prices for consumer electronics worldwide, threatening the profitability of low-cost smartphones and laptops. Memory chips, made from silicon wafers, are a critical part of the semiconductor ecosystem. They store data and deliver it to processing units, which perform computations. The two major types are DRAM, which provides short-term memory for active programs, and NAND flash, which stores files for the long term. AI data centers increasingly rely on an ultrafast memory architecture called high-bandwidth memory (HBM). In HBM, DRAM chips are stacked vertically and placed next to the graphics processing unit, enabling rapid data access that is essential for running large language models and other AI workloads. As the AI industry orders vast quantities of HBM chips, manufacturers are diverting capacity away from conventional DRAM and NAND chips used in consumer electronics. Prices are rising at historic rates: in the first quarter alone, DRAM prices are expected to rise by 90%95%, while NAND flash prices could increase by 55%60%, according to market research firm TrendForce. SK Hynix, Samsung, and U.S. company Micron account for over 90% of global memory chip production. All three are expanding in Asia, with Micron also planning facilities in the U.S., Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan, while Samsung and SK Hynix increase capacity in South Korea. The rise of AI has shifted the spotlight to hardware suppliers, with SK Hynix and Samsung recently surpassing the combined market capitalization of Chinese tech giants Alibaba and Tencent for the first time. China imports most of its memory chips but is working toward self-sufficiency in AI hardware. The U.S. imposed restrictions in 2024 on Chinas access to HBM chips to limit its AI advancements. Chinas ChangXin Memory Technologies is catching up to Korean rivals in producing HBM chips, though it remains several years behind technologically. By 2026, it is projected to account for nearly 15% of global DRAM production, according to research firm SemiAnalysis. Meanwhile, Yangtze Memory Technologies, Chinas leading NAND flash producer, is expanding its fabrication plants and plans to enter the AI-focused DRAM market. It will take years for chipmakers to build enough production lines to satisfy AI-driven demand. Until then, the memory crunch is expected to continue pushing up prices for computers, smartphones, tablets, and even cars. Rising memory costs may make low-end devices economically unviable, and some budget smartphones could be pulled from the market altogether. Counterpoint Research forecasts that global smartphone shipments will fall by 2.1% in 2026, with Chinese brands like Honor, Vivo, and Oppo, which have large portfolios of budget models, expected to be hit hardest. Some analysts predict that the memory shortage could accelerate innovation in AI-optimized chips and drive companies to develop alternative memory technologies, such as computational memory or advanced 3D-stacked architectures, potentially reshaping the future of both consumer electronics and AI hardware. Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi, the country's first female leader and its most conservative since World War II, took over in the middle of a term when her predecessor resigned, and gambled on calling an early election for parliament. The voters rewarded her with a landslide election for her party and coalition. Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), the country's traditional conservatives despite its name were allied with the populist nationalist right Japan Innovation Party with a majority in the lower house, but lacked a majority in the upper house going into the election. The election gave them a supermajority in the lower house, which will allow them to override any legislation blocked by the upper house. The election saw the LDP win 316 of parliament's 485 seats, a gain of 125 seats, while the main opposition Centrist Reform Party won only 49, a loss of 123 seats. The Japan Innovation Party was third with 34 seats. The center-left Democrat People's Party was fourth with 28 seats. The ultra conservative Saracito Party was fifth with 15 seats, a gain of 12, and a new technocratic party, Team Mirai won 11 seats. https://redstate.com/streiff/2026/02/08/japans-prime-minister-wins-supermajority-and-charts-new-course-for-japan-and-western-pacific-n2198948 A day nursery in Lisburn says it has created 12 jobs over the last year at a new branch following a 0.4m investment. Helping Hands Day Care opened a new childcare facility in Ballycastle for children aged three months to 12 with the support of Bank of Ireland. Husband and wife Norman and Deborah Murton carried out extensive renovations to the town's former Barnish High School, where they located the facility. From left, Norman and Deborah Murton, owners of Helping Hands Day Nursery, with Greg Liddle, business manager, Bank of Ireland Mrs Murton said: "We are delighted to see the success of our Ballycastle site. Our quality childcare provision has been in demand from day one - as we support working families across the local area. "We have grown rapidly in our first year starting with a single child to now having on average 30 children per day, and with the scale of our investment, further places are still available, so we invite local families to get in touch. "With our wealth of experience in running our Lisburn nursery, we have been excited to bring our ethos of making every child feel individual and valued to Ballycastle". The 6,000 sq ft premises has large outdoor spaces and a gymnasium. Two managers on site have more than 20 years experience in childcare, the company said. Mr Murton added: The former school premises was too good an opportunity to miss, and it is an approach and business model that has worked very well for us. "Bank of Ireland supported us in our launch in Lisburn and they saw our vision for Ballycastle and have done everything they can to enable us to make a success of this opportunity. "We are excited to see our brand expand into new areas of Northern Ireland and were of course open to more opportunities should they arise." News Catch Up - Friday 6 February Greg Liddle, business manager at Bank of Ireland, said: "We are delighted to continue our journey with Helping Hands Daycare. "The success the business has seen over the last 12 months demonstrates the importance of high-quality childcare provision locally, making an enormous difference to families and contributing to the local areas economic vitality. Read more Nigerian restaurant replaces former pizzeria in north Belfast Invest NI has backtracked on its claim that one new inward job went to Derry in 2024/25, now admitting that the company relocated that job to Omagh. At a recent Economy Committee meeting, Invest NI was challenged about being unable to name one new investor in the city for 2024/25. Invest NI hit back, saying that out of 19 investments across Northern Ireland, one went to Derry. That one investment was linked to one job at a company named Propel Industries PVT Ltd. Invest NI was subsequently accused of manipulating regional balance figures as it measures delivery against investments outside Belfast rather than jobs. It emerged that Belfast had, in fact, got 526 (94%) new inward jobs out of a total of 560 in 2024/25. But, having declared that one job went to Derry, Invest NI has now admitted that job was relocated to Omagh. Read more Invest NI responds to criticism over zero new investors in Derry by citing one job Read more Invest NI accused of manipulating regional balance figures as 94% of new inward jobs went to Belfast Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin said: The SDLP has consistently flagged the failure from Invest NI to bring investment or jobs to Derry. This was never about any one job or company, but this does raise questions about both the record keeping of Invest NI and that their officials thought using this one job which wasnt even situated in our city or district after all was a defence of their record. The scale of the imbalance is frankly shocking. Throughout my political career, I have repeatedly raised these issues, including with the First Minister at the Executive Office Committee. Its deeply frustrating that despite reviews and changes of leadership that still so little progress has been made. Despite warm words from Invest NI and the Economy Minister, this plainly shows the results and why I am bringing forward legislation to force Executive departments to take regional balance seriously and to give places like Derry their fair share. In a statement, Invest NI said it has a long-standing relationship with Northern Crusher Spares Ltd (NCS), located in Castlederg in the Derry City and Strabane, District Council Area (DCA). In early 2019, NCS established a new manufacturing business, Omega Crushing & Screening Ltd (OCS) also in Castlederg. In June 2024, India-headquartered Propel Industries PVT Ltd announced its first investment in Northern Ireland (NI) through a substantial equity investment in OCS. This investment resulted in a strategic partnership designed to enable the new international owners to grow their presence in the global crushing and screening industry. Invest NI executives based in India and NI played a key role in facilitating this investment. Invest NI added: At the time of the announcement, OCS was located in the Derry City & Strabane Council area and Invest NIs Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system correctly logged the investment against this DCA. In September 2024, OCS made a commercial decision to relocate its manufacturing operation to Omagh. This change in location was not recorded on our CRM and, therefore, when we presented at the Economy Committee in December 2025, the OCS investment was still recorded against its original location in the Derry & Strabane DCA. The new location of the OCS manufacturing operation will be updated and accurately reflected in Open Data NI as part of our next data release. At present, OCS in Omagh employs 13 staff and Invest NI is engaged with the company to support its growth plans. NCS continues to operate in the Derry City and Strabane Council area. Read more Belfast shopping centre proposal to extend unit will affect car parking numbers Turning Point NI: Widow of Charlie Kirk expected to visit Northern Ireland Erika Kirk is rumoured to be visiting Northern Ireland as part of a tour to recruit young people to the conservative organisation founded by her murdered husband. The assassination of her husband Charlie Kirk on a Utah college campus last September sent shockwaves across the globe. Immediately after, Mrs Kirk became the CEO of the right wing think tank Turning Point US, which also has a UK branch. The organisation had its start on university campuses across the US. Talks to set up a Turning point chapter in Northern Ireland are said to be at an advanced stage, but a spokesperson for the group in the US has called the claim fake news. Its understood that former DUP MP Ian Paisley has been consulted about setting up a branch of the group Northern Ireland to carry forward their christian-right ethos. Paisley previously attended President Trumps inauguration last year and hosted Eric Trump in Northern Ireland. Could Turning point come to NI, what would it stand for, and would the conservative groups views resonate with young people in Northern Ireland? Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph journalists Brett Campbell and Kurtis Reid. A young mother-of-two who was found dead a week after she went missing will be laid to rest on Tuesday. Caitlin Greens body was discovered in the Princes Street area of Lurgan on Saturday afternoon her death is not being treated as suspicious. The 24-year-old is remembered in a funeral notice as the loving mummy of Cadain and Cliodhna and the dearly beloved daughter of Stephanie and Barry. "Much loved sister of Jason, Lela, Patrick and Lily-Rose and beloved granddaughter of Siobhan Green, it adds. Read more Tributes paid after death of NI teacher who shaped generations of young people: A heart of gold Caitlin's body will repose at her home address in Gilford on Monday evening where family and friends have been invited to pay their respects. A Requiem Mass will take place at 11am on Tuesday. The funeral cortege will leave the property and make its way to St Patrick & St Colman's Church in Laurencetown around an hour before the service. Caitlin will be buried afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on her soul, the funeral notice reads. Very deeply regretted by her loving children, parents, brothers, sisters, granny and entire family circle. Donations in lieu of flowers have been requested to Changing Lives c/o Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors. It comes as Caitlins sister Lela expressed an emotional tribute on social media and vowed to forever remember your perfect beautiful smile and laugh. Rest in peace Caitlin, hard to believe youre gone, she added. Side by side, or miles apart, siblings will always be connected at heart. "Without a fail, my big sister always lifted me up all my life now its my turn to lift her. "This saying really stuck; A sister is someone who loves you from the heart, no matter what you do wrong and that was just Caitlin all over. " I love you. Not goodbye, its see you later. Caitlins family were informed on Saturday that a body had been found amid an ongoing search effort. It wasnt until Sunday that a post-mortem examination formally confirmed the identity. Police offered condolences to Caitlins family as her brother Jason took to Facebook to pay tribute to his sister. I love you so much Caitlin, he wrote. RIP little sis. The emotional update prompted replies from friends who expressed shock and sadness as they offered condolences. "She loved you so so much Lela and shes watching over you always, one user wrote. Another posted: Sending you so much love, Caitlin will be with you always. Caitlins mum Stephanie had set up a Facebook page dedicated to the effort to bring her daughter home. Detectives had issued a fresh appeal for information on Friday and urged local residents to check privately-owned sheds and outbuildings to help locate the missing person who was last seen alive at around 12.30pm on Saturday, January 31. Caitlin vanished after leaving a friends home in the Derry Street/Lord Lurgan Park area dressed in black leggings and a grey Regatta jacket and had not been in contact with relatives since the day before. Her body was discovered just hours after her mum updated the Bring Caitlin Home page with a desperate plea for the community to gather in the area where her daughter was last sighted to even just be there for her. The Friends of St Johns Primary School Gilford Facebook page said the entire school community is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Caitlin Green, beloved sister of our dear pupil, Lily-Rose. We extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies to Lily-Rose, her family, and to all of Caitlins friends and loved ones at this heartbreaking time, it adds. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Caitlin rest in peace. St John, pray for her. A Gilford Community Events account said the whole village is devastated by the tragic loss of Caitlin Green. "What began with hope, prayers, and the community coming together to search has ended in heartbreak beyond words, the post continues. On behalf of the Gilford Community Events Group, we want to express our deepest and most sincere sympathy to her family and loved ones. "Our hearts are completely broken for you. This loss has touched every home in our village. We stand together in grief, in support, and in solidarity with the family at this unimaginable time. "You are not alone our entire community is with you. Rest in peace, beautiful girl. News Catch Up - Friday 6 February Friends continued to post online tributes on Monday. "Just can't believe you're gone wee women, one person wrote alongside a broken heart emoji. You will be missed big time. Rest in peace. The loved ones and survivors of those lost to the London Docklands bombing gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of the attack during a memorial service. The IRA orchestrated attack saw 3,000lb worth of semtex detonated in a vehicle outside the Bashir family newsagents business in Canary Wharf on this day in 1996. Two people subsequently lost their lives from the Libyan-made explosives blast which also left over 100 injured. Among those dead was Inam Bashir (29) and John Jeffries (31) who were both killed in the newsagents. The memorial service was held at noon at South Quay railway station, less than a 100m from where the attack took place. Jonathan Ganesh, Docklands Victims Association president, said the incident was a horrific act of violence." Deputy Mayor for London Joanne McCartney addressed the service on Monday Mr Ganesh said: Many of you will remember Inam and John as the friendly faces behind the newspaper kiosk beside South Quay Station. "They were well known, well liked, and truly loved within this community. They were ordinary men living ordinary lives taken from us in an extraordinary and horrific act of violence. I believe they would be deeply moved to see us gathered here today. As I look around, I see people of every colour, every faith, and every political belief standing side by side. Our presence sends a powerful message: we condemn terrorism in all its forms, wherever it occurs. Main Co Antrim road like an off-road track as pothole chaos continues "In times like these, we are reminded that more than pain, we need humanity. More than terror, we need love. More than hatred, we need compassion and understanding. Without these qualities, life would be unbearable. The terror attack led to the end of the seventeen-month ceasefire agreed in August 1994 on the condition Sinn Fein could participate in peace negotiations. A few months after the bombing, the IRA claimed responsibility for the Manchester bombing in 1996. Read more Work well under way at Donald Trumps Doonbeg links to make 2026 Irish Open greatest ever Another special general assembly is set to take place at the headquarters of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) next week to discuss "pressing matters" that have come to light as a result of the ongoing safeguarding scandal. Church leaders will meet at the Assembly Buildings in Belfast next Wednesday, February 18, where they will be updated on how measures agreed at the first special gathering in December have progressed. A letter has been sent to ministers explaining that the process of appointing "a suitably qualified candidate" to the role of Clerk of the Assembly will be on the agenda. Dr Richard Murray The current moderator, Rev Dr Richard Murray who was reinstated to the position after Trevor Gribben resigned at the end of November, states that the meeting will "address some pressing matters that have arisen as a consequence of our safeguarding failures. Read more We are wearing sackcloth and ashes: Five-hour long Presbyterian General Assembly hears of churchs deep shame The church leader also said the assembly will be briefed on updates on progress regarding general council task groups set up at the end of last year. However the correspondence makes clear that the meeting will primarily address two specific issues. Head of Presbyterian Church in Ireland to step down over safeguarding failures The first is to consider ceremonial and reporting aspects of the 2026 June Assembly, and second, the urgent matter of approving the appointment process of a new Clerk of the General Assembly. Dr Murray said it is hoped that "a suitably qualified candidate" will be appointed to the key role at the annual General Assembly in June as he promised all reports, resolutions and the order of business will be sent to delegates as a PDF and be publicly available on the PCI website within days hard copies will be available on the day. Rev Dr Trevor Gribben "In relation to the ongoing work regarding the safeguarding failures identified last year the moderator assured ministers, that these are being addressed in many ways, with progress being made in the production of new policies, recruitment of new safeguarding staff and responding to the institution of a statutory inquiry by the Charity Commission," ministers have been informed. Clergy members have also been reminded the senior leaders are "keeping those who have been hurt or harmed in our prayers, while making sure they are supported practically in the best possible ways. It comes almost a week after the churchs first tied vote to elect its next moderator in 12 years. Former farmer and missionary, Rev Richard Kerr, was eventually chosen as the 180th person to hold the highest position within PCI after the only female candidate, Rev Mairisine Stanfield, came last. Rev Kerr, who has been minister of Templepatrick Presbyterian Church for two decades, will officially take up the role in June and has already promised to "build on the contrition already expressed in December" over the safeguarding failings. Hundreds of ministers and elders attended the previous Special General Assembly where they were told the church must show it is wearing sackcloth and ashes. The five hour gathering took place amid an ongoing PSNI probe. A Charity Commission investigation was also launched after ex-Moderator Rev Trevor Gribben stood down over serious and significant failings in central safeguarding functions from 2009 to 2022 which resulted in people being harmed and placed at risk. Rev Murray opened the proceedings by saying the church is deeply ashamed and sorry. Acting Clerk Rev David Allen said contrition was required as a resolution was presented to ensure there can be no hint of us carrying on unthinkingly, business as usual. Other resolutions explored the possibility of the Church setting up a financial redress scheme for victims affected by the failures and members agreed to improve the standard of safeguarding training and have a dedicated focus on adult safeguarding. Sir Bruce Robinson, who was a trustee from 2012-2022, said discussions over redress could not wait until the summer as he recommended members reconvene to monitor progress on all of the issues. "I would suggest we need to start that discussion with a clear undertaking that we will not cause any further suffering and that we will commit to bring forward a scheme of financial redress, he added. A committment was also made to discuss the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). However PCI solicitor, Stephen Gowdy, told the Assembly it was important to recognise the reality of NDAs as a very common tool nowadays and warned it would be very foolish to exclude their use. He stressed that they were indeed agreements and not imposed on people. A teacher has been remembered for leaving an indelible mark on education in Downpatrick by shaping generations of young people following her death. The community of Lecale Trinity Grammar School is mourning the death of their friend, colleague, and esteemed head of English, Mrs Diane Dornan. The school said its thoughts and prayers are with Dianes husband Jim, her children Calum and Caoimhe, the wider family circle, and her many friends at this very difficult time. Mrs Dornan began her teaching career in Downpatrick in 2006 as head of English in St Marys High School, a role she continued with dedication and distinction at Lecale Trinity Grammar School. She was not only an exceptional teacher and leader, but also a loyal and caring friend Over almost two decades, she left an indelible mark on education in Downpatrick, shaping generations of young people through her passion for learning, opportunity and genuine care, a statement from Lecale Trinity Grammar said. Diane played a key role in our amalgamation and, as a leader, was both visionary and transformative. She truly embodied our Christian values, and her commitment to our school community and her love for our students were evident in everything she did from the simple kindness of daily treats to creating life-enhancing opportunities such as theatre trips and visits to Paris. Diane gave her time and expertise so generously, always with a smile and her wonderful sense of humour. She was not only an exceptional teacher and leader, but also a loyal and caring friend, whose presence enriched lives. Diane loved deeply and was deeply loved. She will be very sadly missed, but her legacy, in the classrooms, on the corridors, and in the hearts of all those who were fortunate to have known her will live on. Ar dheis De go raibh a h-anam uasal. St John Baptiste de La Salle and Venerable Catherine McAuley, pray for her. Rest in peace, Diane. News Catch Up - Friday 6 February Among hundreds of tributes, one of Dianes colleagues said: Our department and corridor will never be the same without you. Your humour, your quirks, your fierce commitment, your calm guidance, your support and your genuine love for every pupil made such a difference each day. Thank you for making our move to a new department in Lecale so easy. Rest in peace, Diane. You will be missed beyond words. Another teacher added: Diane, it was a pleasure to work along side you. I will miss you dearly. Present and past pupils also spoke highly of the late teacher. One said: An amazing teacher with a heart of gold. Rest in peace Mrs Dornan x. While another woman credited Mrs Dornan for instilling the passion in her to pursue a career in teaching. Rest easy Mrs Dornan. A fantastic teacher and a true lady. Without her motivation and tutorage, I wouldnt be an English teacher myself, she said. Thinking of your family, who you always spoke so fondly of. Read more Boyzone stars autistic daughter turns tour guide for a special trip to Titanic Belfast The Prince of Wales has begun the most important foreign visit of his public career, travelling to Saudi Arabia and being hosted by the countrys controversial leader. William began a three-day visit to the Gulf state, at the request of the Government, to strengthen ties with one of the UKs closest Middle East allies and a major religious and political player in the region. The future king will hold talks with Saudi leader Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, followed by a private dinner at his farm in a world Unesco site in the Saudi capital. London and Riyadh are hopeful the two men, who have met before, will develop a connection with any burgeoning relationship between the two royals likely to set the tone for Anglo-Saudi relations for decades to come. The Prince of Wales meeting with deputy governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz (Aaron Chown/PA) But the crown prince known as MBS is a controversial figure to the West, the head of an absolute monarchy whose regime has been accused of human rights violations, while the ruler is alleged to have links to the killing of a journalist. The Saudi rulers reputation was badly damaged by a US intelligence determination that claimed he had ordered the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. A source said about the Saudis: They are delighted that hes here. The fact that hes a prince and the future king matters enormously. They want it to be a friendship that lasts. Ahead of the visit, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued their first public statement about the Jeffrey Epstein scandal which has seen Williams uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, stripped of his titles after years of being dogged by sex allegations involving Epstein. The Prince of Wales in Riyadh (Aaron Chown/PA) A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. The statement was issued a few hours ahead of the princes arrival in Riyadh, and there was a real sense from Kensington Palace they wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known so William could focus on the trip. But the Epstein scandal escalated after Thames Valley Police said it is assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy. The Prince of Wales is welcomed by Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz (Aaron Chown/PA) William was greeted at King Khalid International Airport, after arriving on a RAF plane, by the deputy governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz. After a welcome gahwa Arabic coffee flavoured with cardamon and a brief chat with dignitaries in the royal terminal, the prince was whisked off for his first royal engagement with the crown prince. The prince discussed the trip with his father the King, who has made a number of public and private visits to Saudi Arabia, and was also briefed by UKs ambassador the country Stephen Hitchen. William and the crown prince toured the Unesco World Heritage Site, At-Turaif in the Diriyah area of the capital, the birthplace of the Saudi Kingdom, and later sat down for talks followed by a private intimate dinner. The two men spent 25 minutes inside the mud brick city, a warren of beautifully restored earthen homes, mosques, palace rooms and offices with the highlight being the Arabian Horse gallery, showcasing the heritage of purebred Arabian horses. The Saudi leader does not like formality, and the two men could enjoy a traditional meal of lamb around a fire with the crown prince due to be joined by a few senior members of his family and William accompanied by his private secretary Ian Patrick and the UKs ambassador. It is not known what was discussed during the formal talks and whether any human rights issues were broached, but in the local culture private discussions on sensitive topics are the norm rather than publicly airing disagreements. Felix Jakens, head of campaigns at Amnesty International, said: Weve asked Prince William to raise the case of British national Ahmed Al Doush, who was arrested visiting Saudi Arabia on holiday in 2024, and sentenced to 10 years in prison, as he understands over tweets from 2018. The ordeal Ahmed has had to endure has been harrowing, and toll on his wife and four children is unimaginable. Any influence Prince William is able to exert behind closed doors could be critical in securing his release. The crown prince is the driving force behind Saudi Arabias Vision 2030, a modernisation of the country to transform the kingdom into a diversified and sustainable economy with goals that include attracting foreign investment, empowering women, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for business and culture by the end of the decade. Women have seen greater freedoms introduced since the crown prince came to power in 2017, with the following year seeing women legally allowed to drive. Mr Jakens said: Saudi Arabias Vision 2030 has aimed in part to reposition the country as a tourist hotspot. But visitors should be aware that the countrys human rights record remains grim, with more people executed last year than Amnesty has ever recorded in a single year, and severe punishments for those deemed to be critical of the regime. Lauren Bradford-Clarke lost her mother when she was very young. She was told her mum Lesley took her own life, eventually learning it was part of a suicide pact with a man, Trevor Buchanan the husband of the woman who would eventually becoming a mother-like figure. That woman was Hazel Stewart, how had been having an affair with Laurens father, Colin Howell. The strange story was that Lesley and Trevor Buchanan, heartbroken, decided to end their lives together. That story was believed by the authorities. Read more Daughter of double killer Colin Howell: I will never get my mummy back. I will never not feel the pain Then 18-years after the deaths, Colin Howell walked into a police station and confessed to murder, implicating Steward as his partner in crime. Laurens life was turned upside down a second time. How has this story affected her life, who has she become, and how does she cope with being Colin Howells daughter Dr Lauren Bradford-Clarke, now a criminologist, spoke with the Belfast Telegraphs Claire Williamson. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Search and rescue crews return to the Monroe Trail in Duxbury at about 4 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, after rescuing two hikers who became stranded after encountering life-threatening conditions high on Camels Hump the previous day. The hikers received medical care and are expected to recover. The merger of the parent companies of Berkshire and Brookline banks will be completed during a conversion process next month, with Beacon Bank emerging as the new name of the regional powerhouse active in five states. Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Quality local journalism needs your support Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access. Subscribe today. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now for 99 Subscriber Sign In | Return Home After discussion about how to ensure the 40-year-old bar wont serve underage patrons again, the Board landed on a three-day suspension to be held in abeyance for 6 months meaning, if there is another incident it is an automatic three-day suspension. A well-known definition says insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. That definition fits heresy. Generating, following, or perpetuating a heresy never gets the result hoped for self-rule apart from God (where the traditions of men and/or judgment supersede biblical doctrines). The Galatian Heresy stems from infiltrators who said that to be saved, works must be added to faith in Jesus Christ. Biblically speaking, a heresy signifies self-chosen doctrines not emanating from God. In laymens terms, a heresy is a belief and practice not based on the doctrines of the Bible. Titus 3:10 tells us a heretical person is one who aligns with his own self-willed questions. Heresy is also equated with crimes and seditions (Galatians 5:20), and infers divisions or schisms in the church (1 Corinthians 11:19). In Acts, heresy denotes a sect (Acts 5:17; 15:5; Isaiah 24:5, 14; 26:5). What Is the Galatian Heresy? The Apostle Paul wrote what is called his angry letter to the church in Galatia. The heresy he addresses was foisted upon the Gentile Christians in the Galatian church by Judaizers who claimed salvation comes from Jesus, yes, but a person must submit to circumcision and the Mosaic Law to be truly saved (Galatians 3:1-6; 5:1-12; 6:12-15). In it, he addressed concerns about Judaizers whod infected the church with false teaching that a believer must be circumcised to be righteous before God. Thats the whole of the heresy, but its implications and damage are far-reaching, even to this day. 2 Peter 2:1-3 states, But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. The heresy happened, but Peter warns more will come. What Did the Church Do to Counteract the Galatian Heresy? The Galatian heresy was not the only heresy to affect the early church. False teachers attacked the church from its start. We need to remember the devil and his powers are the ones who produce heresies within the church. Doctrines are attacked and believers were (and are) tossed about by strong false teachers who try to, as Paul said, bewitch them (Galatians 3:1). Twentieth-century Welsh Pastor Martyn Lloyd Jones said in The Christian Warfare, The main heresy is always justification by works. Of course, the epistles were written partly to counteract the heresies. We can see a perfect defense of the faith as put down in Scripture (which is perfect because Christ is the Author of Scripture). The church also responded to the ongoing threat of the heresies rampant in the church by convening councils. From them stemmed great creeds written to define the Christian faith, underscore the truths of Scripture, and teach solid biblical doctrine. The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) directly addressed the Galatian heresy and is the first church council convened. A list of other early church councils may be found here, and the creeds, confessions and catechisms of our faith may be seen here. All in all, the creeds, catechisms, and confessions of our faith buttress our belief and trust in Gods Word. Its always a good idea to read through them with your Bible alongside. Does the Galatian Heresy Still Affect Us Today? The devil has always been in rebellion against God. His objective, obviously, is to disrupt the life of the church, to unsettle the assurance of Christian people, and to spoil Gods work in Christ (and therefore, Christs work in and through Christians). As we grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18), we grow in the ability to recognize truth and error. Gods Word is our lens through which to view the world and all it teaches. Although we no longer call this disruption the Galatian Heresy, its still with us, yet in a morphed form. As we learned, the Galatian heresy claimed salvation involves, Jesus plus Since Paul wrote much about heresies within the church, we can easily (and ignorantly) think Paul took care of that issue when he wrote to the Galatians (and Ephesians and Colossians, and Philippians, etc.). But his admonitions, directions, and cautions to the Christians to believe the gospel and follow Christ didnt stop the devils schemes (John 8:44). The heresy is still with us, even though its been addressed and corrected by many Christ-followers (including the Reformers, like Luther and Calvin). As Grace Reformed Network pastor Jeremiah Hurt teaches, Our default wiring remains, Jesus Christ plus our works. Its not the law of God. Its the law of man our own law, and because we cannot keep His law, its lowered to meet our standard instead of Gods. Legalism came in like a raging storm (the Pharisees were great at legalism) and this continued until it was pushed out by Pietism, which is just another form of the Galatian Heresy. Piety in and of itself is good because it speaks to ones godliness and devotion to the Lord (1 Timothy 4:7; 2 Peter 1:3). Piety is the outflow of our fruit in accordance with the Spirits ministry within us. Pietism, however, puts the emphasis of a Christians life on his performance and obedience. Pietism throws Christ in the background and points us inward to what we are doing (or not doing). Therefore, a persons assurance of salvation is thwarted by a man-centered, works-based salvation and sanctification, which we know is wholly a work of the Holy Spirit. And Christianity is not about us. Its about Christ and what Hes done for us. As we gather for communion to remember what Christ has done, we remember he said, Do this in remembrance of Me (Luke 22:19). Jesus didnt say, Do this in remembrance of what you do or dont do. Pastor Jeremiah adds, And so even though most of us in this room are not struggling with the Galatian heresy. We are struggling with its ugly second cousin, Pietism. And pietism is constantly looking inward and being pointed inward by yourself, by the enemy, even by the preacher man, to determine whether or not you're actually saved. You are not on parole, alright? You have been justified by the free grace of God. He loves you and His Son. You're united to Him. You are a son and daughter. You have the perfect righteousness of Christ. You have eternal life. You have forgiveness of sins. Christ is interceding for you. Christ is coming back for you. God is our Father. He didn't save you and then say fly, birdie, fly. Let's see if you can make it home. Sanctification is not a threat. It's a promise. Better say that again. Sanctification is not a threat, it's a promise. The Christian life is not a threat. It's not you better make it. you better do this or you might hear, Get away from me. I never knew you. That's not what the Christian life is. The Christian life is a promise we will grow. The insidious danger of the Galatian heresy in its modern form Pietism. How Should Christians Respond to Heresies? Most of us have seen the bumper stickers with symbols of all major faiths and beliefs emblazoned upon them. Some people say the church should unite with other faiths to promote world unity. Knowing what we do about the purity of Gods Word, how then can we even consider uniting with heretical beliefs? Christians are told to get over ourselves for the sake of world unity. World unity is unity with Satan, and he is a thief who only seeks to steal and kill and destroy (John 10:10). Thank the Lord Jesus He came to give us abundant life in Him. Our main concern is our relationship with God the Father through Jesus Christ our Lord by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me (John 14:6). If you are not a Christian, know this: God loves you so much that He sent Christ Jesus to die in your place to atone for your sins (and we are all sinners even Christians). We cannot save ourselves by any works we do. But Jesus lived the perfect life we cannot, and He died the death we deserve. His work on the cross secured the salvation of all who believe in Him (Romans 10:9). And He rose from the grave and is now at the right hand of the Father, building His church and interceding for Christians. We are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone for His glory alone according to Scripture alone. Our works to try to get saved give us no standing before God the only thing we supply is our sin. Its what Christ has done that bears us up. As we interact with and counteract the lies sown in others (and our own) lives, we need to be strong ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). We also need to act with gentleness and love (2 Timothy 2:22-25). Heresy, as noted above, is an attempt at self-rule apart from God. The Bible disqualifies any success at self-rule. Ephesians 2:1-3 reminds us who we were before Christ saved us, And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Pastor Jones (quoted above), also said, If you go wrong in your doctrine, you will go wrong in all aspects of your life (Martyn Lloyd Jones, Christian Warfare, 113). True doctrine is always urgently relevant. The very best action we Christians can take is to get involved in a church that teaches the whole counsel of God and bases all they teach on Scripture. Join the church each Lords Day and hear the Word and gospel taught (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 10:24-25), pray together, and celebrate the Lords Supper on a regular basis. Photo credit: Getty Images/rodkosmos Lisa Loraine Baker is the multiple award-winning author of Someplace to be Somebody, which is being adapted and brought to the stage by the Karamu House Theater in Cleveland, Ohio (Winter, 2027). Lisa writes fiction (Christmas stories) and is currently writing a novel titled Refuge. She also writes non-fiction, including articles for BibleStudyTools.com and Christianity.com. She and her husband, Stephen, live in Lexington, Kentucky with their Kentucky wild cat, Lewis. Pandorum Technologies raises $18 M to increase global market access for programmable tissue regenerative therapies February 09, 2026 | Monday | News Funding accelerates clinical development and market access across the US, Asia, and the Middle East image credit- freepik Pandorum Technologies, a Bengaluru-based biotechnology company pioneering programmable regenerative medicine, with operations in India and the United States, has announced the closing of a $18 million in Series B financing round, to advance the clinical development of its disease-modifying, tunable, exosome-based therapies, including Kuragenx, while scaling global manufacturing and expanding operations across the US, Japan, and the Middle East. The round was led by Protons Corporate, with participation from Galentic Pharma, marquee investor Ashish Kacholia, Noblevast Advisory and Avinya Fund, Burman Family and others. Bandana Kankani, advisor and investor at Pandorum, had guided the transaction, optimizing the alignment between the investment architecture and companys value creation. Founded by Tuhin Bhowmick and Arun Chandru, Pandorums proprietary platform combines biology, engineering, and computation to develop tunable, regenerative exosome therapies that reprogram pathological tissue states, like inflammation and fibrosis, toward functional recovery. Pandorum has implemented a globally distributed manufacturing strategy, including a CDMO partnership with AGC Biologics (Italy) for the US and European markets, and a strategic collaboration with Nucelion Therapeutics (India), a subsidiary of Bharat Biotech, to support supply across the Asia-Pacific region. The company is also exploring potential partnerships in the Middle East. Pandorums primary focus is on ocular surface diseases, such as StevensJohnson Syndrome and Neurotrophic Keratitis, for which Kuragenx has received US FDA Orphan Drug Designation. In addition to ophthalmology, it is expanding its tunable platform to address systemic conditions, including inflammatory and degenerative diseases affecting the lung, liver, and nervous systems. Preventify announces Rs 2 Cr Pre-Seed funding to expand branded healthcare clinics February 09, 2026 | Monday | News Funding will be used to scale a cluster-based clinic model, and strengthen chronic care programmes Kerala-based Preventify, a healthcare startup focused on delivering standardised, high-quality preventive and chronic care in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India, has raised Rs 2 crore in a pre-seed funding round led by operator-led accelerator PedalStart. The round also saw participation from a strong group of strategic angel investors, including Viren Shetty (Narayana Health), Jatin Kakrani (Dezy), the founders of Supertails, the founders of Agrizy, and senior leaders from Indias healthcare ecosystem. The capital raised will be deployed to build Preventifys first cluster of 10 clinics, expand its chronic and lifestyle disease management programmes, and strengthen its technology, diagnostics, and pharmacy integration. The company aims to create a repeatable, capital-efficient model for delivering consistent healthcare outcomes across underserved semi-urban and smaller towns. Founded with the mission of bringing branded, evidence-based healthcare closer to where people live, Preventify operates at the intersection of clinical protocols, technology, diagnostics, and long-term patient engagement. The startup currently operates three clinics in Kerala and has already served over 40,000 patients, demonstrating strong demand and trust in markets where access exists but care quality and consistency remain fragmented. Over the next 1218 months, Preventify plans to scale its clinic footprint across Kerala, investing in experienced clinicians, nurses, care coordinators, and central medical teams. The company is also strengthening its protocol-driven care pathways, subscription-based outcome tracking systems, and integrated diagnostics and pharmacy workflows to ensure consistent care quality across locations. In parallel, Preventify is accelerating the development of subscription-based managed care programmes for chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and long-term respiratory diseases. These programmes follow a phygital model, combining in-clinic consultations with digital monitoring, structured follow-ups, lifestyle interventions, and continuous care coordination. Global pioneers to address BioAsia 2026 in Hyderabad on February 17 & 18 February 09, 2026 | Monday | News Two-day conference will bring together some of the most influential scientific leaders Global pioneers from the world of science, artificial intelligence (AI) and biopharmaceutical innovation will converge in Hyderabad as BioAsia 2026, Asias premier life sciences and healthcare forum, gets underway on February 17 & 18. The two-day conference will bring together some of the most influential scientific leaders, AI visionaries and industry CEOs who are shaping the future of next-generation medicines and digital-first healthcare. Held under the theme TechBio Unleashed: AI, Automation & the Biology Revolution, BioAsia 2026 comes at a defining inflection point for global healthcare, as artificial intelligence and programmable biology rapidly move from research labs into real-world drug discovery, development and manufacturing. Among the global pioneers addressing the conference are Dr Stefan Miltenyi, Founder and President of Miltenyi Biotec; Dr Howard Y. Chang, Chief Scientific Officer of Amgen; Pushmeet Kohli, Vice President of Science at Google DeepMind; Madeleine Roach, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Operations at Sanofi; and Anton Groom, Chief AI Officer at MSD. Besides Dr Despina Solomonidou, EVP & Global Head Technical Research & Development, Novartis (Switzerland), Rashmi Kumar, SVP & Chief Information Officer, Medtronic (USA), Eamonn Warren, Group Vice President Manufacturing (API & Dry Products), Eli Lilly (USA), Badhri Srinivasan, Group CEO, Unilabs (Switzerland) will also address key sessions across the two days. The conference will open with inaugural addresses by A. Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister of Telangana, and D. Sridhar Babu, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries and Commerce, reaffirming the States commitment to positioning Hyderabad among the worlds leading life sciences hubs. A special Telangana Rising Vision 2047 session will outline the States long-term roadmap for AI-enabled R&D, advanced biologics and next-generation biomanufacturing, reinforcing Hyderabads role as a global TechBio innovation ecosystem. Across nine high-impact sessions and a marquee CEO Conclave, BioAsia 2026 will host global leaders from top pharmaceutical, MedTech and AI organisations, alongside leading Indian innovators, making it a definitive platform for collaboration, insight and investment in the life sciences sector. DUNEDIN, New Zealand Cancer diagnostics company Pacific Edge (NZX, ASX: PEB) notes its Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Novitas has confirmed the scheduling of its planned Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) to consider the evidence for urine biomarkers in patients with hematuria. The opinions expressed during the meeting, which is scheduled to take place from 6:00pm on 19 February 2026, US ET (12:00pm Friday 20 February 2026 NZST), are expected to have an influence over the language Novitas uses in any draft Local Coverage Determination (LCD) covering Medicare reimbursement of Cxbladder that is published following the meeting. The WebEx meeting is estimated to run for two hours and is public to the public by registering at the link below. https://fcso.webex.com/weblink/register/red3f833b75a2f3922d04ada5d71a6aee Given the significance of the CAC, Pacific Edge expects its shares to enter a trading halt ahead of the meeting that is expected to last until the company provides an announcement to investors giving context to the matters covered at the CAC. The company expects to make this announcement ahead of the market open on Monday 23 February 2026 (NZST). Released for and on behalf of Pacific Edge by Grant Gibson Chief Financial Officer. Pacific Edge: www.pacificedgedx.com Pacific Edge Limited (NZX/ ASX: PEB) is a global cancer diagnostics company leading the way in the development and commercialization of bladder cancer diagnostic and prognostic tests for patients presenting with hematuria or surveillance of recurrent disease. Headquartered in Dunedin, New Zealand, the company provides its suite of Cxbladder tests globally through its wholly owned, and CLIA certified, laboratories in New Zealand and the USA. Cxbladder: www.cxbladder.com Cxbladder is a suite of non-invasive genomic urine tests optimized for the risk stratification of urothelial cancer in patients presenting with microhematuria and those being monitored for recurrent disease. The tests help improve the overall patient experience, while prioritizing time and clinical resources to optimize practice workow and improve efficiency. Supported by over 20 years of research, Cxbladders evidence portfolio extends to more than 25 peer reviewed publications, and Cxbladder Triage is now included in the American Urological Associations Microhematuria Guideline. To drive increased adoption and improved patient health outcomes, Cxbladder is the focal point of numerous ongoing and planned studies designed to generate further clinical utility evidence. Cxbladder is available in the US, Australasia, and Israel and in markets throughout Asia and South America. In the US, the test has been used by over 5,000 urologists who have ordered more than 130,000 tests. In New Zealand, Cxbladder is accessible to around 70% of the population via public healthcare and all residents have the option of buying the test online. Medicare Contractor Novitas Schedules Expert Panel Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: SkyCity Appoints Chief Financial Officer February 13th Morning Report February 12th Morning Report NZME 2025 Full Year Results Release Date Turners Institutional Investor Day February 10th Morning Report NZK Enters Into Wellboat Lease Agreement Fonterra announces Mainland Group leadership change OCA - Oceania announces Director changes as part of Board refresh AIA - Analyst and media webcast for FY26 interim results An associate of the Dundon McCarthy gang who fatally shot Noel Campion 19 years ago "in cold blood" and was later deported back to Ireland, having told multiple people in the US - including a police officer - that he had killed a man, has been jailed for 15 years by the Central Criminal Court. The court heard during last month's sentence hearing for 42-year-old Darragh Quinlivan that he later characterised what he had said as "sh**e talk" and sarcasm. Campion was shot dead as he was riding as a back passenger on a motorbike at Thomondgate in Limerick City - close to St Munchin's Church. Sentencing Quinlivan at the Central Criminal Court on Monday, Justice Paul McDermott said he was satisfied the case fell into the "most serious category" and that the offence was part of a plan to kill an individual "in cold blood". Advertisement He said it was clear from the evidence that Quinlivan was the gunman who had killed Campion and he had also attempted to kill the man driving the motorbike that day. The judge said Quinlivan had hid himself from view in a phone booth and "ambushed" the men "virtually at point blank range". He remarked that Campion had clearly been shot to advance the interests of the Dundon McCarthy gang. Justice McDermott called the shooting "callous and brutal", where the defendant had opened fire on a public street during the mid-morning when there was heavy traffic and without regard for the public's safety. The judge noted that he had received a considerable number of statements from those who have been greatly affected by Campion's killing. He added: "They set out very eloquently and in great detail the terrible devastation brought upon the family following the loss of a husband, father, uncle, and friend in these appalling circumstances. It is a life-long endurance that the family are subjected to as a result of this shooting". Justice McDermott pointed out that the devastation and heartbreak caused by Quinlivan's actions were obvious. However, the judge said this was put into "stark reality" when the "very detailed and raw" victim impact statements were presented to the court. He described the statements as very moving and said they encapsulated the continuing grief and sorrow experienced by the family, which he said will continue into the future. The judge said careful planning was involved in the killing including the procurement of the firearm. He said the disposal of the weapon required considerable effort and application. Advertisement Quinlivan had originally been charged with the murder of Campion (35) on the northside of Limerick city on April 26th, 2007. However, when arraigned before the court in January, Quinlivan, originally from Limerick City but with an address at Ranswell Close, Bolton, Manchester in the UK, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life at or about the junction of High Road and Thomondgate in Limerick. He has also pleaded guilty that on the same occasion with the purpose of enhancing the ability of a criminal organisation, being the Dundon McCarthy organised criminal group, to commit a serious offence in the State, to wit the murder of Campion, did knowingly participate in the activity of that criminal organisation by shooting dead the said Campion. Prosecution counsel, Dean Kelly , previously told the court that Quinlivan was not pleading guilty to the offence of murder. Before passing sentence on Monday, Justice McDermott said the maximum sentence for unlawful possession of the firearm was life in prison. He said the offence of participating in the activity of a criminal organisation had a maximum sentence of five years at the time but was subsequently increased, which he said was of no relevance to the case. The judge said Quinlivan was observed in the aftermath of the killing drinking and behaving in a celebratory mood with seven other members of the McCarthy-Dundon gang. He said gardai believed that the shooting was directed from the top of the McCarthy-Dundon gang. Quinlivan, he said, had applied for a passport five days after the shooting. The defendant had also appeared at Nenagh District Court on May 2nd, 2007, for taking a car and gave evidence that he hoped to leave Ireland within two weeks because of his involvement in the feud between the Keane-Collopy and the McCarthy-Dundon gangs. Advertisement The court has heard that the defendant left Ireland on June 6th, 2007, with his passport obtained in the days after the shooting. Quinlivan travelled to Tacoma in Washington State, where he lived and worked for the next six months. In the early hours of January 13th, 2008, local police were called to a domestic incident in a house, where the defendant and his uncle had a significant argument which strayed into violence. One of the officers arrested Quinlivan and observed he was so drunk that when he was travelling to the police station he had trouble talking and walking. The policeman said Quinlivan told him: "You know why I'm here, I killed a man in Ireland" and then named the man as being 'Noel'. The judge said today that Quinlivan was deported back to Ireland in March 2008 and that he had been 24 years of age at the time of the shooting. Justice McDermott said he had received substantial documentation that the defendant had made significant efforts to move away from his criminal behaviour and that how Quinlivan is now is "completely at odds with his character" in 2007. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions, including those for robbery with a firearm and the unauthorised taking of a MPV. Justice McDermott set the headline sentence for the charge of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life at 22 years but took into account mitigating factors, including his guilty plea and that he had developed "a totally different lifestyle" since 2012. He said Quinlivan had also expressed regret but this provided little solace for those left behind. The judge reduced the 22 year sentence to 16 years when taking mitigation into account. He further suspended the last 12 months of that sentence for a period of two years on various conditions. He was also sentenced to four years imprisonment on the count of participating in the activity of a criminal organisation. The man's sentences are to run concurrently. The UK governments continuing refusal to name the former Army agent known as Stakeknife is deeply insulting to victims, a solicitor representing several affected families has said. The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee (NIAC) on Monday joined calls for the UK government to formally name Stakeknife, widely believed to be west Belfast man Freddie Scappaticci, who was 77 when he died in 2023. Operation Kenova, a probe which examined the activities of Stakeknife, a mole operating within the Provisional IRAs Internal Security Unit in the 1980s linked to at least 14 murders and 15 abductions, concluded that more lives were probably lost than saved through the operation of the agent. However, it was unable to confirm Stakeknifes identity in its final report in December after the UK government refused its authorisation to do so. Freddie Scappaticci, who is widely believed to be the IRA agent known as Stakeknife, pictured in 2003 (PA) Successive governments have refused to do so, citing the long-standing policy of neither confirm nor deny (NCND). Then, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said the UK government was considering its position on naming Stakeknife following a Supreme Court judgment related to the disclosure of intelligence information in the case of the murder of Paul Thompson. Advertisement Kenova chief Iain Livingstone, and PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, who previously led the investigation, have urged the UK government to name Stakeknife. Responding on Monday, a UK government spokesperson said it is not yet in a position to formally respond to the request by Operation Kenova to name Stakeknife as there remains ongoing litigation, and consideration of the recent judgment in the Thompson Supreme Court case. They added that Benn has committed to updating Parliament on the matter as soon as he is able to. Belfast solicitor Kevin Winters of KRW Law said Benn is becoming increasingly isolated. With both the committee and the chief constable of the PSNI now openly supporting the need for naming, continued government reliance on the Neither Confirm Nor Deny policy is untenable, he said. For the families we represent survivors of torture, interrogations and murders attributed to the IRAs Internal Security Unit continued suppression of Scappaticcis identity is deeply insulting. He is dead; there are no residual human rights protections to hide behind. Naming him would not open the floodgates to disclosing the identities of other agents, living or deceased, but it would provide a long-overdue measure of truth for victims. Advertisement Winters urged Benn to do the right thing. This has dragged on far too long. Kenova families are, frankly, fed up to the back teeth with delay, he said. MI5 cannot be allowed to dictate the limits of truth recovery. The Secretary of State must take a stand. All sections of the community want the truth acknowledged. The committees position today represents vindication for families who have campaigned for transparency for decades. Politically, todays NIAC position is seismic. Legally, it could influence ongoing litigation, including the case of the family of Anthony McKiernan, murdered in 1988. Morally, the governments refusal to name Scappaticci, after spending 40 million on Kenova, risks undermining the positive elements of the entire process. To refuse naming now would compound the insult to families and erode public confidence even further. A Ukrainian refugee has described how she awoke to find her "jealous" ex-partner pinning her down and demanding to be told "the truth" about her "lover" before trying to murder her by stabbing her 15 times. In her victim impact statement, Viktoriia Pavlenko said former soldier Hryhorii Sryotenko had "absolutely mad eyes" before launching the attack, in which he repeatedly stabbed her in the face and body. Last October, Sryotenko (51) with an address at Banna Beach Holiday Homes, Ardfert in Co Kerry, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Pavlenko at that location on January 13th, 2024. Sryotenko was previously charged with false imprisonment, assault causing serious harm and the production of a knife during a dispute. Pavlenko said in her statement that she and her daughter had to leave Ukraine in 2022 when the war broke out and "look for a shelter somewhere in a safe place". Advertisement The victim said life improved when they came to Ireland and it gave them "a feeling of peace and tranquility" but that "everything changed completely" on the day of the attack. In her statement, Pavlenko said she met Sryotenko in Ireland and they were neighbours. "At first everything was good, we planned our future life together. But then he turned out to be very jealous. He started to accuse me of saying and doing things I've never said or done"," she said. At this point, the victim said she started to suspect her partner had some mental health problems. She said they separated in November 2023 but still lived in the same house. "I will never forget January 13. I was sleeping peacefully in my bed when I heard a strange noise. I opened my eyes and at first I didn't realise what was going on. I saw Hryhorii in my bed, sitting on me with a knife in his hands. "His eyes were absolutely mad. He threatened to stab me if I didn't tell him the truth about my lover. I didn't have any lover so I didn't understand what he was talking about. Then he stabbed me on my face and body. I don't know how many times because I was shocked. "I shouted and luckily his son heard and came into the room and saved me. Truly speaking, I have rather vague memories of that day, mainly because of the pain, fear and shock". Pavlenko said she was taken to University Hospital Kerry and then Cork University Hospital, where she was operated on for her injuries. The court heard she had 15 stab wounds on her body. Advertisement She said she spent weeks in hospital and then months recovering from the injuries and doing special exercises for rehabilitation. "I should admit that it was a rather difficult time for me". The victim said that "step by step" she is coming back to a normal life with the help of her daughter and her friends. Detective Garda Anthony Wharton detailed the events of the morning of January 13th, telling Paul Murray, prosecuting, that the defendant comes from Ukraine, was a former soldier and had been injured in the Crimean conflict in 2014. The detective said Sryotenko, who has no previous convictions, attempted to enlist when the Ukraine war broke out but was not accepted due to his injuries. He then came to Ireland. Under cross-examination, Det Gda Wharton agreed with Mark Nicholas with Maria Brosnan, defending, that Sryotenko and Pavlenko had lived together in 2022, formed a romantic bond and were planning "a new life". Nicholas said as their relationship continued, his client became jealous but was never aggressive until this incident. He said Sryotenko had "an unshakeable belief" that his partner was being unfaithful to him. He said the victim tried to convince her partner that it was not true. The officer said the victim started to notice her partner acting strange around Christmas 2023 and as he would look at a blank screen for a long time and was not talking. He said the defendant presented as "very depressed" and was mixing up reality with his imagination. The witness said Sryotenko continued to believe Pavlenko was being unfaithful to him and the couple split in 2023. He said the defendant could not shift this belief so the couple didn't get back together. Advertisement Det Gda Wharton said "things came to a terrible end" on the morning of January 13th, when the defendant burst into Pavlenko's room. The witness said the victim was startled and Sryotenko "pressed on her about her faithfulness" and proceeded to cut her. Ireland Kildare man raped his then partner in woods and told her he had dug her grave Read more During interviews with gardai, the detective said Sryotenko admitted stabbing the victim but denied attempting to kill her. The defendant said he had done something terrible and was happy Pavlenko was still alive. Det Gda Wharton agreed with counsel that one cut was quite near the windpipe muscles but that the passage hadn't been ruptured. Justice David Keane remanded Sryotenko in custody until March 16th, when probation and psychological reports will be before the court. As part of a pilot project BreakingNews.ie has used AI to suggest headline options for this article. The final headline was chosen and edited by BreakingNews.ie journalists. Find out more No new restaurants in Ireland have been awarded the illustrious three Michelin star rating, despite much speculation Irelands first would be named. Michelin revealed its latest guide at a ceremony in Dublin on Monday night, the first time the event has been held in the country. Ten restaurants retained their three Michelin star status, but no new names were added to the prestigious list. A Galway restaurant, The Pullman, which is housed in two restored Orient Express carriages, picked up its first star. When you love what you do, its easy and we love what we do, was John Wyer of Forest Avenue in Dublins response when his restaurant was awarded its first star. There had been predictions Ireland had been chosen to host the event because the countrys first three-star restaurant would be added to the guide. Advertisement Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey handed out the Service Award, which went to Barbara Nealon of Saint Francis Provisions in Kinsale, Co Cork. When asked what makes great services, she quipped just liking your customers. He also gave out the prize for Sommelier of the Year, which went to Roxane Dupuy of Row on 5 in London. Two eateries, Row on 5 and Bonheur by Matt Abe, both in London, were elevated to two-star status. Two Restaurants Newly Awarded Two MICHELIN Stars in The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026 From the latest Two-Star restaurants to 20 new One-Stars and five Special Awards, discover everything you need to know from The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony 2026https://t.co/AzM6wSXDOt pic.twitter.com/upeF3Z5zkm The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 Also on the list of 20 recipients of their first Michelin star is Fifty Two at Rudding Park in Harrogate, which is known for its Dessert Islands Discs, where guests choose music to play and chef Adam Degg said they try to create a party in the restaurant. Mare by Rafael Cagali became the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Brighton and Hove in nearly 50 years. Alexander Claridge, of The Wilderness in Birmingham which also collected its first star, said the city doesnt take itself too seriously, but it is serious about food. The 2026 Young Chef Award went to Tom Earnshaw of Bohemia on Jersey. He said he was inspired by walking his dog on the beach, saying it is one of the benefits of working on an island, and adding: Just nice to get away from it all sometimes. Sebbs in the centre of Glasgow received the Exceptional Cocktail Award. Shwen Shwen in Kent was named Opening of the Year, it describes itself as bringing the flavours of Sierra Leone to the heart of Sevenoaks. Maria Bradford said her familys restaurant literally represents the underrepresented. New MICHELIN-Star Restaurants for 2026 in Great Britain & Ireland Discover all of Great Britain & Irelands brand-new MICHELIN-Star restaurants, from grand historic settings to neighbourhood hauntshttps://t.co/7v3gh3Z9gq pic.twitter.com/crXvzj8lT6 The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) February 9, 2026 Green stars were also awarded to seven restaurants who have embraced a responsible and mindful approach to gastronomy. In a video address played during the ceremony, the guides international director, Gwendal Poullennec, described the evening as a true historic event for Irish hospitality. He added that it was a milestone that recognises not only exceptional cooking, but the people, places and passion that define Irish food culture and hospitality. A US national has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his 66-year-old father at the five-star Ballyfin Demesne hotel in Co Laois over a year ago. Henry McGowan (31), with an address at Clinton Street, Brooklyn, New York, in the United States, is charged with the murder of John McGowan (66) at Ballyfin Demesne, Ballyfin, Portlaoise, Co Laois, on November 12th, 2024. McGowan was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court on Monday on the single charge of murder. When the registrar read the indictment to the accused and asked him how he was pleading, McGowan replied: Not guilty by reason of insanity". Justice Sean Gillane told the jury panel that Henry McGowan is a US national so it was highly unlikely that they knew him or knew anything about him. Advertisement The judge informed the potential jurors that the case will "traverse" issues related to mental health, which will be a live issue in the case. He asked them to make themselves available until Friday of this week. The prosecution case is being led by senior counsel Brendan Grehan, while Michael Bowman and Olan Callanan are heading up the defence team. A jury of six men and six women was sworn in to hear the trial, which is due to begin on Tuesday before Justice Paul McDermott and is expected to last three days. As part of a pilot project BreakingNews.ie has used AI to suggest headline options for this article. The final headline was chosen and edited by BreakingNews.ie journalists. Find out more A vulnerable minor who is subject to a court order directing Tusla to place her in secure care has recently absconded from a private accommodation placement, amid ongoing concern about her involvement with an adult man, the High Court has heard. Tusla, the child and family agency, has not complied with the order to detain the child in secure care, due to a lack of available beds the States three secure care units. Highly troubled and vulnerable children aged 11 to 17 can be detained in a secure care unit, known as special care, on foot of a High Court order sought by Tusla. Judge John Jordan, who manages the High Courts special care list, on Monday said it was not surprising that the girls situation was getting worse in circumstances where she should be in special care, but is not. Advertisement It seems pointless pointing out to the CFA [Child and Family Agency] that special care orders are not part of an a la carte menu they are made and should be complied with, he said. Alan D P Brady, counsel for the girls court-appointed advocate, said reports available to the court set out the extent of the deterioration of the girls situation in a recent accommodation placement with a private provider. Brady said the girl had engaged in assaults on staff at the placement, and said there was concern about the minors involvement with an adult man. The judge noted instances of violence, aggression, absconding, drinking, self-harm and consorting with an older person recorded in the reporting before the court. Paul Gunning, barrister for Tusla, said the private accommodation provider had recently informed his client that it was discharging the minor from the placement, describing this as a regrettable development. The childs previous foster family agreed to take her in, he said. Tuslas non-compliance with the order directing the childs placement in secure care is the subject of a separate lawsuit, which seeks a court declaration that the agency is in contempt of court orders. In another case, the judge described as a reasonably good story so far the case of a child who was previously without a special care bed, but is now in a secure unit. Sarah McKechnie, barrister for Tusla, said the child is keeping to himself in the unit, and is described as quiet and mannerly. McKechnie noted that the childs sibling had been informed that a drug debt owed by the detained child had been transferred to the sibling. The judge noted that this was a matter for the gardai. As part of a pilot project BreakingNews.ie has used AI to suggest headline options for this article. The final headline was chosen and edited by BreakingNews.ie journalists. Find out more February 8, 2026: Two years ago the U.S. Marine Corps began using their new Amphibious Combat Vehicle/ACV in overseas training operations. This involved live fire exercises using the marine ACV vehicles. The ACV automatic 40mm grenade launchers fired training rounds that contained yellow chalk. These rounds are often used to mark a target for other weapons. The current version of the ACV has a V shaped hull instead of the original flat bottom. The V shaped hull, plus high ground clearance, provides more protection for personnel on board when the vehicle encounters a roadside bomb, landmine, or any other nearby explosions, like artillery shells landing. So far, the marines have received 200 ACVs. Each of these armored 8x8 wheel amphibious vehicles weigh 35 tons with a 3.3 ton payload. There is a crew of three and room for 13 passengers plus over a ton of cargo. Road speed is 105 kilometers an hour and 12 kilometers in the water for a distance of up to 21 kilometers. In late 2020 the U.S. Marine Corps began receiving production versions of its new ACV 1.1 because the vehicle was declared to have achieved Initial Operational Capability/IOC. This ends more than two decades of effort and over three billion dollars spent to come up with a suitable replacement for the AAV7 amphibious armored vehicle. The AAV7 entered service in 1972 with an initial order for 942 and that was completed by 1974. Eventually over 3,000 were built with most being exported to eleven countries. The last AAV7s were retired in late 2025, after 53 years of service. The new ACV doesnt carry as much as the older AAV7 and is not as agile when moving inside a ship or a town. The marines who use the ACV say these issues are not a real problem for them. The marines are also awaiting delivery of new ACV variants. The ACV-30 will carry a 30mm autocannon operated from inside the vehicle. The army has been using systems like this successfully for decades. The new ACV-R, for recovering damaged ACVs is also coming. When the search for a AAV7 replacement began in the late 1990s, the U.S. Marine Corps had over 1,100 in service and many of these had already been refurbished and upgraded in the 1980s and would need further refurbishment to keep them in service when the marines failed to develop a suitable replacement. In 2011 the $3 billion Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle/EFV project was declared a failure. Proposals for a new AAV7 were requested and by 2015 there were five proposals for the new ACV. The marines spent $240 million so the two finalists could each build sixteen of their vehicles for competitive testing that began in 2016. Selection of the winning design, by European defense firm BAE, was made in 2018. BAE offered a variant of an existing vehicle; the SuperAV 6x6 already used by the Brazilian Army as the VBTP-MR Guarani. This was important because the marines, and their budget, could not afford another vehicle design that looked good on paper but impossible to make work in reality. The ACV version is an 8x8 vehicle weighing 31.5 tons and carrying 13 marines plus 3 crew. Among the modifications required were amphibious capability, the use of lighter modular composite armor including ceramics, and design features that make ACV equal, if not better at resisting mine and IED explosions than Mine Resistant Ambush Protected/MRAP vehicles using steel armor. ACV has an improved V shaped hull design with additional blast protection features for the floors as well as blast resistant seats attached to the troop compartments ceiling instead of the bottom of the vehicles hull. All these features had already been found, by trial and error in Iraq and Afghanistan, to greatly reduce casualties for vehicles attacked by landmines or roadside bombs. Such features had been successfully added to existing armored vehicles like the Stryker and this reassured the marines. The initial production contract was for 30 ACV 1.1 vehicles that were delivered by late 2019 for testing and an effort to achieve IOC and allow full production of the remaining 184 vehicles. Each ACV 1.1 costs about $6 million. Prolonged use of ACV 1.1 is expected to produce a number of proposals for modifications and upgrades that will result in ACV 1.2. When that happens all ACVs will be upgraded to the 1.2 standard to produce a more reliable and capable ACV. How far these upgrades go depends on how much the marines can afford to spend on the project. Some of the items on the 1.2 to-do list have priority because they have to do with survivability and reliability. For example, the ACV is cramped inside, more so than the AAV7, and it takes longer for passengers to get out in an emergency. This is crucial if the ACV sinks while swimming ashore or finds itself still aboard an amphibious ship and ready for deployment when the amphibious ship itself takes a hit and starts to sink. Thats an extreme situation but individual vehicles sinking does happen during peacetime training. Another urgent fix is the reliability of some of the electronic devices on the vehicle. Many of these are being fixed or replaced even as production is underway and then existing ACVs are upgraded. Eventually the marines want over 500 ACVs to replace over a thousand AAV7s. As good as the ACV sounds, this was not how it was supposed to be. Before 2014 marine doctrine mandated an improved amphibious vehicle to replace the AAV7s. In 2014 the marines revised their view of the future. Gone were the prospects of large amphibious operations, requiring hundreds or thousands of landing craft, that occurred frequently during World War II. The last operation of this type occurred in 1950, at Inchon, Korea. In 2014 the marines decided that the future was more likely to include the need to conduct raids, from ships up to 200 kilometers offshore. No amphibious armored vehicles could handle that, so landing tactics have to be changed. This resulted in major revisions to the specs for the new marine ACV amphibious armored vehicle. The 2015 reality turned out to be different, and better. Given the prototypes offered and growing budget reductions it looked like the ACV 1.1 finalist would have the capability of moving from 20 kilometers offshore under its own power. To accomplish this, the marines had to accept a vehicle that carried fewer marines and was somewhat less capable in the water. The AAV7 has 30 percent reserve buoyancy enabling it to cross 36 kilometers of water in sea state 5 at speeds of up to 12 kilometers an hour. The ACV 1.1 has 21 percent reserve buoyancy enabling it to cross 36 kilometers of water in sea state 3 at speeds of up to 11 kilometers an hour. On the plus side the ACV has wheels, not a track laying system, and can do 105 kilometers an hour on roads versus 72 for the AAV7. In addition, wheeled armored vehicles require far less maintenance that tracked ones, which need their tracks replaced far more frequently than wheels wearing out. Meanwhile the marines refurbished the existing 1970s era AAV7 amphibious armored vehicles to prolong service life until ACV can replace them. The marines never expected the AAV7s to last this long but several attempts to develop a replacement came up short and that meant it was essential to extend the life of their thousand AAV7 amphibious armored vehicles. Many of these had entered service in the 1970s and 80s and were falling apart. Moreover, some two thirds of the AAV7s saw service in Iraq, where they got as much use in two months as they normally did in two years of peacetime operations. In 2018 400 AAV7s began a refurbishment program that took several years. The refurbished AAV7s could be used into the 2030s, or whenever the ACV are available in large enough numbers to replace them. With the recent ACV IOC and full production of ACV 1.1 it looks like the AAV7s will be needed until about 2025. Thats over fifty years for an amphibious vehicle that did a lot more than it was expected to. The 29-ton AAV7s have crews of four including driver, commander, gunner and rear crewman as well as 25 combat-ready marines as passengers. The vehicle is armed with a 40mm automatic grenade launcher and a 12.7mm machine-gun. When new their top land speed was 72 kilometers an hour on roads, 32 off road and 13 in water. Back in 2011 the marines gave up on high-speed (sea skimming) amphibious assault vehicles and turned to a new ACV design to replace the AAV7s. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency/DARPA was called in to help design the new vehicle. This may sound either very innovative or very desperate, and in reality, it was both. The marines had spent three billion dollars in an unsuccessful attempt to design and develop the EFV, a high-speed amphibious vehicle, and its failure made it clear that some original thinking was required. In the end the ACV was the EFV without most of the expensive stuff that didn't work. In effect, the ACV was a 21st century version of the AAV7, optimized to pass all its development tests and go into service as quickly as possible. DARPA quickly did its job but the resulting ACV was still more expensive, at $12 million than the shrinking marine budget could handle. The ACV design was tweaked until an affordable price was achieved. In retrospect, the marines could have just built the EFV without the high-speed capability but that was eventually considered technically and politically impractical. The problem remains that the technology simply does not yet exist yet to make the high-speed capability workable. The budget situation was grim, leaving the usually unstoppable Marine Corps running into an immovable object and improvising as best they could. For example, the marines asked the navy to develop a high-speed amphibious craft or connector to get ACVs to shore quickly but the navy budget is also shrinking and proved unable to handle the cost of developing and building the connector. Some marine analysts point out that the need for moving amphibious vehicles 200 kilometers from ship to shore is probably unrealistic for any likely future marine operations. For that sort of thing the marines have nearly 300 tilt-wing V-22 aircraft. These entered service in 2007 and proved very useful for getting marines somewhere faster than any other option. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor allegedly shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Jeffrey Epstein, newly released emails reveal. Emails released by the US Department of Justice earlier this month appear to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after being sent by his then-special advisor, Amir Patel. The former duke made the visits in his capacity as trade envoy in late 2010, conducting meetings and trade talks. Additionally, on Christmas Eve 2010, Andrew looped Epstein in on a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. Ghislaine Maxwell with Jeffrey Epstein (US Department of Justice/PA) The messages come after Epsteins 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Andrew previously told BBCs Newsnight in 2019 he had cut off contact with the convicted paedophile in December 2010 during a visit to New York. Advertisement On February 9th, 2011, Andrew told Epstein he had visited a private equity firm the week before and thought of you as the financier, who was reportedly looking for somewhere for money to go. Official UK government guidance underscores that the role of a trade envoy carries a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive information. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits, the guidance read. This duty of confidentiality will continue to apply after the expiry of their term of office. In addition, the Official Secrets Acts 1911 and 1989 will apply. The former duke served as the UKs special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. Vince Cable, business secretary at the time, told the BBC of the emails: I was unaware of Andrew sharing information about investment opportunities [in Afghanistan] before, this is the first Ive heard of it. The former duke features a number of times in the latest release of documents, including images apparently showing him crouch over an unidentified woman in what appears to be Epsteins New York mansion. US Department of Justice (left-right) of the Duke of York, Virginia Giuffre, and Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell (US Department of Justice/PA) In 2022, the former duke paid millions of pounds to Virginia Giuffre, his main accuser, despite claiming never to have met her. Britain's king Charles later stripped him of his titles following the posthumous release of a book by Ms Giuffre, who alleges she was trafficked by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, at the age of 17. Advertisement The Press Association understands that Andrew moved out of Royal Lodge and relocated to Norfolk to a property on the kings Sandringham estate earlier this month, reported by the Sun to be Wood Farm Cottage, where he will stay temporarily. It is understood the former dukes new home of Marsh Farm is not yet fully ready, but he is expected to move in by the start of April. It was known the former prince would be moving out of Royal Lodge in the new year and the development is not thought to be linked to the latest revelations in the Epstein papers. Andrew still has the lease for his Windsor property until October, but it is understood he has made the substantive part of his move to his new home. However, it may take some weeks to complete and the former prince is likely to be seen at Royal Lodge on occasion. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in one of the most prominent cases prosecuted under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the citys dissent. Judge Esther Toh said 18 years of the 78-year-old British nationals sentence should be served consecutively to his jail term in his fraud case, for which he received a jail term of five years and nine months. Lai can appeal his case. His co-defendants received jail terms between six years and three months and 10 years. Three government-vetted judges spared Lai the maximum penalty of life imprisonment on charges of conspiring with others to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious articles. He was convicted in December. Given his age, the prison term still could keep him behind bars for the rest of his life. Retired Chinese cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, left, and Jimmy Lais wife Teresa Lai arrive at the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) As Lai entered the courtroom on Monday morning, he waved and smiled at his supporters sitting in the public gallery. Hong Kongs outspoken Roman Catholic Cardinal Joseph Zen sat next to Lais wife Teresa. The democracy advocates arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence. Advertisement The government insists the case has nothing to do with a free press, saying the defendants used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed China and Hong Kong. Lai was one of the first prominent figures to be arrested under the security law in 2020. Within a year, some of Apple Dailys senior journalists also were arrested. Police raids, prosecutions and a freeze of its assets forced the newspapers closure in June 2021. The final edition sold a million copies. His sentencing could heighten Beijings diplomatic tensions with foreign governments. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmers government also has called for the release of Lai, who is a British citizen. US President Donald Trump said he felt so badly after the verdict and noted he spoke to Chinese leader Xi Jinping about Lai and asked to consider his release. Lais daughter, Claire, told The Associated Press she hopes authorities see the wisdom in releasing her father, a Roman Catholic. She said their faith rests in God. Advertisement We will never stop fighting until he is free, she said. Police officers stand guard outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Courts ahead of the sentencing (Chan Long Hei/AP) Lai founded Apple Daily, a now-defunct newspaper known for its critical reports against the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing. He was arrested in August 2020 under the security law that was used in a years-long crackdown on many of Hong Kongs leading activists. During his 156-day trial, prosecutors accused him of conspiring with six former Apple Daily staffers, two activists and others to request foreign forces to impose sanctions or blockades or engage in other hostile activities against Hong Kong or China. Lai testified for 52 days in his own defence, arguing he had not called for foreign sanctions after the laws introduction. In December, the judges ruled Lai was the mastermind of the conspiracies and never wavered in his intention to destabilise the ruling Chinese Communist Party. They took issue with what they called his constant invitation to the United States to bring down the Chinese government with the excuse of helping Hong Kongers. Lai is serving a nearly six-year prison term over fraud allegations in a separate case and has been in custody for more than five years. In January, lawyer Robert Pang said Lai suffered health issues including heart palpitations, high blood pressure and diabetes. Although Lais condition was not life-threatening, Mr Pang argued his clients health, age and solitary confinement, which the prosecution said Lai requested, would make his sentence more burdensome. Advertisement The prosecution said a medical report noted Lais general health condition remained stable. The former Apple Dailly staffers and activists involved in Lais case entered guilty pleas. Under the security law, reporting on offences committed by others may result in reduced penalties and some of the staff members served as prosecution witnesses. The convicted journalists are publisher Cheung Kim-hung, associate publisher Chan Pui-man, editor-in-chief Ryan Law, executive editor-in-chief Lam Man-chung, executive editor-in-chief responsible for English news Fung Wai-kong and editorial writer Yeung Ching-kee. The two activists convicted in the case, Andy Li and Chan Tsz-wah, also testified for the prosecution. Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell will be questioned by US Congress on Monday, although it is expected that she will not answer any questions and invoke a constitutional privilege. According to a letter on Sunday from US Representative Ro Khanna, Maxwell intends to invoke her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and refuse to answer all substantive questions at the deposition before the US House's Committee on Oversight. Instead of answering individual questions, Maxwell plans to read a prepared statement at the beginning of her deposition, Khanna, who serves on the committee, said in his letter to committee chair James Comer. Maxwell was found guilty in 2021 for helping Epstein sexually abuse teenage girls and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence. Maxwell's attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters on Sunday. Advertisement This position appears inconsistent with Ms. Maxwells prior conduct, as she did not invoke the Fifth Amendment when she previously met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to discuss substantially similar subject matter, Khanna wrote in the letter. Epstein was convicted in 2008 of soliciting a minor, and was released in 2009. He was then charged with sex trafficking of minors in 2019, but died in prison in what was ruled a suicide, before he was sent for trial. Maxwell's lawyers have pushed for US Congress to grant her legal immunity so she can testify, but lawmakers refused. In lieu of that, lawmakers have said that she would invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. World US Supreme Court rejects appeal from Ghislaine Maxwell Read more The hearing will take place behind closed doors, but Khanna's letter sets out the list of questions that he intends to ask Maxwell, even if she will not answer them. One of the questions asks: "It is well documented that you, President Donald Trump, and Mr. Epstein had a social relationship, and there are several photographs of you together. Did you or Mr. Epstein ever arrange, facilitate, or provide access to underage girls to President Trump?" One question asks about the "possible pardon" that Trump said publicly he would "look at", while another asks her to "identify any foreign governments or intelligence services, including those associated with Russia and Israel, that Mr. Epstein shared information with or otherwise acted on behalf of". The deposition comes as the US Department of Justice has released of millions of internal documents related to Epstein. Disgraced British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell has refused to answer questions as part of US Congresss probe into paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The 64-year-old appeared remotely before the House Oversight Committee on Monday, but those in the room said her lawyer used the opportunity to campaign for a pardon from President Donald Trump. In a post on X after the questioning, Maxwells legal representative, David Markus, said his client would be prepared to speak fully and honestly if granted clemency by President Trump. FILE Documents that were included in Jeffrey Epstein files (Jon Elswick/AP) Markus also said: Some may not like what they hear, but the truth matters. For example, both President Trump and President (Bill) Clinton are innocent of any wrongdoing. Ms Maxwell alone can explain why, and the public is entitled to that explanation. Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, James Comer, told reporters Maxwell should not be entitled to immunity. Advertisement World Scottish Labour Party leader calls on British PM Keir Starmer to quit Read more Addressing the disgraced socialites decision to remain silent, Comer said: This is obviously very disappointing, we had many questions to ask about the crimes she and Epstein committed, as well as questions about potential co-conspirators. During her three-week trial in 2021, prosecutors described Maxwell as dangerous, and said she helped entice vulnerable teenagers to Epsteins properties for him to sexually abuse. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison at the federal court in the southern district of New York in June 2022. The UK is pushing for the release of jailed Hong Kong democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai on humanitarian grounds as Downing Street defended Keir Starmers talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. British national Lai, 78, was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Monday under a security law imposed by China. Lai, who founded the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper which criticised the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing, was arrested in August 2020. Starmer raised his case with the Chinese president during his visit earlier last month. Downing Street rejected suggestions that the sentence showed engagement with China had failed to work, arguing it meant there was a stronger chance of securing a positive outcome for him as opposed to just talking into a void. Asked whether Starmer had been misled by the Chinese president during their talks, the prime ministers official spokesman said the UK condemn(s) this politically motivated prosecution and well continue to raise this case at the highest levels of the Chinese government, as indeed the prime minister did directly. Campaigner Jimmy Lai, centre, founded the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper which criticised the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing (Vincent Yu/AP) Asked whether Lais case was a clear example of how Britains engagement with China had not worked, the spokesman said: I dont accept that. He added that having a policy of not engaging at all with China is not a policy that benefits Britain or British citizens, and argued it was much better to have a relationship that allows us to make our case directly to the Chinese president rather than just talking into a void. Advertisement Asked whether the UK was going to take any action or just keep asking China to release Lai, the official said: I dont accept your characterisation. Downing Street said its engagement meant there was a stronger chance of securing a positive outcome for Jimmy Lai as opposed to an approach of non-engagement, which results in us just talking into a void as has happened many years prior to the reset the Prime Minister has delivered over the last couple of weeks. British National Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison tantamount to a life sentence for a 78-year-old. Foreign Secretary Yvette Coopers statement pic.twitter.com/Ch5QWlx4We Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (@FCDOGovUK) February 9, 2026 Foreign secretary Yvette Cooper called on Hong Kongs authorities to end Lais appalling ordeal. She said Lai had been exercising his right to freedom of expression. Beijings National Security Law was imposed on Hong Kong to silence Chinas critics, she said. For the 78-year-old, this is tantamount to a life sentence. I remain deeply concerned for Mr Lais health, and I again call on the Hong Kong authorities to end his appalling ordeal and release him on humanitarian grounds, so that he may be reunited with his family. Jimmy Lais sentencing is a tragic injustice. He must be afforded humanitarian relief. IPACs statement from 86 politicians across 31 countries pic.twitter.com/q3m6eJSpwD Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) (@ipacglobal) February 9, 2026 The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China said the sentence serves as irrefutable proof that Hong Kongs legal system answers to Beijing. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan-Smith said: Jimmy Lai has been handed yet another sham sentence under Hong Kongs National Security Law: a political punishment for the simple act of standing up for freedom of the press and the rule of law. Advertisement This is not justice. It is repression, directed by Beijing, designed to silence dissent and intimidate all who value liberty. Shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel said: The Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Government should be ashamed of themselves for not securing the release of Jimmy. Spineless Starmer gave the Chinese Communist Party their super embassy spy hub and then went to Beijing to kowtow to President Xi begging for Chinese investment. Meanwhile, thousands more HongKongers will be granted visas to enter the UK. Adult children of British national (overseas) status holders who were under 18 at the time of Hong Kongs 1997 handover to China will be eligible to apply for the route independently of their parents, the Home Office said. Their partners and children will also be able to move to the UK under the expanded route. Ministers estimate 26,000 people will arrive in the UK because of the change over the next five years. The British prince and princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the ongoing revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Kensington Palace has said. It is the first time the views of William and Kate have been known about the crisis, that has engulfed the monarchy and Westminster, and their thoughts remain focused on the victims. William is en route to Saudi Arabia for the start of a three-day tour of the Middle East country, spending his first day with the Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ahead of the visit, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said: I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims. With the start of the tour just a few hours away, there was a real sense from Kensington Palace that they wanted the position of the prince and princess to be known, so William could focus on the trip likely to be the biggest diplomatic test to date of his overseas visits in support of the UK. Advertisement Much of the work of the royal family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the ongoing Epstein scandal, reignited when a huge tranche of millions of documents associated with Epstein were released by US authorities. These sparked a string of allegations against Williams uncle and have led to police launching an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. Among the claims are that a second woman was sent to the UK by paedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome in Epsteins Florida home. The latest allegation is that Andrew shared confidential reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore in his role as the UKs trade envoy. The former duke, who was stripped of his titles by the king last year, has always denied any wrongdoing and last week he finally left Royal Lodge for the Sandringham estate. Edward, Andrew's brother, was the first royal to publicly speak out since the Epstein documents were released, saying last week that it was important to remember the victims when asked how he was coping since the US department of justices document dump. Advertisement Analysis BusinessBanking & financeScams After growing to $4.5 trillion, super faces its next big challenge: scammers Clancy Yeates February 9, 2026 4:02am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The biggest long-term story in Australias financial system is the meteoric rise of superannuation: a $4.5 trillion asset pool thats on track to rival the size of our banks by the end of this decade. While far from perfect, this massive pool of savings is shaking up capital markets, shifting power dynamics in the corporate world, and most importantly giving millions of people a more comfortable retirement. But with such growth, its hardly surprising scammers and fraudsters are also eyeing off all that money. There have long been warnings that our super system could be targeted by scammers and fraudsters. GETTY Last year the super industry was reminded this is not some abstract risk, when about half a million dollars was stolen in cyberattacks on funds. The corporate watchdog says the super industry had about $22 million in scam-related losses last year. Advertisement Funds say theyre making significant efforts to try and protect their members from this grim threat. However, the two key watchdogs for super funds recently made it clear they see definite room for improvement. Related Article Opinion Retirement living Theres a $2.5b issue with our super, and its costing retirees Bec Wilson Money contributor Simone Constant, a commissioner at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has been warning super funds for more than a year about the risk of scams. Last week she gave the industry a blunt reminder theres more to be done on this front. Constant pointed out that by 2030 the super pool is projected to approach $6 trillion, which is more or less where the banks are today. As super swells, the regulators worry about the sector being a soft target to scammers for a number of reasons. Apart from the sheer amount of money in super, theres the fact that other parts of finance (such as banks) have tightened up their anti-scammer defences, which can push the scammers to look elsewhere for opportunities. Advertisement As well, most of us rarely check our super balances, unlike our bank balances, which means were less likely to notice something untoward. People in the retirement phase of super a cohort thats getting much bigger as the population ages also tend to be more attractive for scammers because this group can access super money much more easily than those still saving for retirement. In calling out the risk, ASIC is trying to push funds to get ahead of the threat. So, how are funds dealing with the dangers of scammers? At least on some measures, ASIC seems to think many funds need to lift their game. Theres no doubt last years cyberattacks prompted funds to tighten their security in some cases introducing measures like two-factor authentication. But this is only part of the battle against scammers. Funds also need to talk to members about these risks and how to avoid them and be available to help them if they have been scammed. However, ASIC last week warned of significant gaps in how funds communicated with members about scams, after it reviewed the websites of 47 super funds and compared them with the major banks. The study found many super funds had limited or poor quality information about scams, and only about a third of websites gave members actionable information to prevent or report scams and fraud. Advertisement It also found only one in five super fund websites had a dedicated telephone or email contact for members to report potential scams or fraud. ASIC commissioner Simone Constant. EAMON GALLAGHER Now, a lack of email addresses or phone numbers may not sound like a big deal in the scheme of things. But to a scam victim, it can matter a lot. If someone realises, to their horror, theyve been scammed out of thousands of dollars, one of the first things theyll want to do is call the fraud hotline at financial institution to try to stop it. In response to ASICs report, the Association of Superannuation of Australia wrote to its members suggesting better wording of the material on their websites, and vowed to work with the watchdog as it provides more detail about what funds should be doing. The group added funds had strengthened their authentication and monitoring of unusual activity, and said it would work with government on the potential for tighter oversight of higher-risk transactions. Advertisement However, poor website content wasnt Constants only concern. She also provided an early update on an ASIC review of how super fund trustees use customer complaints to detect where whey might improve. While she stressed that the results were mixed across the industry, Constant appeared surprised with what some funds had (or rather, hadnt) found. Incredibly, five of the 10 trustees we are looking at in depth have not identified a single systemic issue from analysis of their complaints data over our period of review, she said. These trustees received thousands of complaints but told us they havent identified one single systemic issue through regular review of complaint data? Really? While data about complaints may sound pretty unexciting, its an important way companies can find out whats upsetting their customers, and therefore how they might improve. Constant, a former bank executive, saidd the importance of listening to customer complaints was one of the top lessons from the 2018 banking royal commission into financial misconduct. Advertisement Those organisations that really failed at the royal commission and were found so wanting, if theyd paid better attention to their complaints, they would have seen the data pointing them to where the problems were to where customers were being failed, Constant said. Related Article Opinion RBA Lets not be lazy about it: the RBA cant fix our inflation problem Millie Muroi Economics Writer As well as ASIC, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authoritys deputy chair Margaret Cole also sent funds a message last week that it was time to lift their game on scam protection. Speaking alongside Constant, Cole described the super sectors losses in last years cyberattacks as a serious wake-up call that occurred six years after the regulator had introduced obligations on IT security. And its not just on scam protection where some big super funds have copped blunt criticism lately. There have also been high-profile court cases against Cbus and AustralianSuper over delays in paying out death benefits, while HESTA was slapped in late 2025 for an outage that left members unable to access their accounts for about six weeks. Granted, funds have taken steps to address these problems, including hiring more staff instead of relying on outsourcing. ASICs outgoing chair Joe Longo said last month he thought funds had got the message about the need for improvement in member services, though it would take time. Advertisement Even so, the recent warnings from APRA and ASIC over scam protections are the latest signs that one of the super sectors biggest tests in years to come may not be accumulating assets something its been pretty good at so far. Instead, as more people start drawing on their super, the big challenges are more likely to be around serving customers, and that includes fighting the scammers eyeing off a slice of the super pie. The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the days trading. Get it each weekday afternoon. Advertisement Sponsored BusinessCompaniesBulls N' Bears Lindian secures long-lead gear as Malawian rare earths build gathers pace Brought to you by BULLS N BEARS Rowena Duckworth February 9, 2026 3:19pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Lindian Resources has kicked its Kangankunde rare earths project in Malawi into full execution mode, locking in critical long-lead processing gear as construction crews press ahead across multiple work fronts. The company says procurement of critical plant items, including the SAG mill, thickener and flocculation plant, shaking tables and belt filters, has materially strengthened timelines as the project moves deeper into the execution phase. The SAG mill, the projects most critical long-lead item, is scheduled for delivery in about 22 weeks, anchoring the plant construction schedule. Lindian Resources Kangankunde mining team with owner-operated machinery on site. On the ground, momentum is building quickly. More than 550 people are now working across the site, with Lindian clocking up an impressive 200,000 lost-time-injury-free hours. Its Komatsu mining fleet is carving out haul roads, shaping construction platforms and pushing ahead with tailings facility earthworks, with the owner-operated approach giving the company tighter cost control and less reliance on third-party contractors. This project is now firmly in execution mode. Lindian Resources executive director Zac Komur Advertisement Lindian says the non-process infrastructure is also taking shape, with the 90-person Tipume accommodation camp nearing completion and administration buildings, a medical clinic and security facilities to support workforce mobilisation progressing well. Lindian Resources executive director Zac Komur said: This project is now firmly in execution mode, enabling earthworks are well advanced, key infrastructure is progressing, and we have placed orders for the critical long-lead plant packages to lock in delivery timing and protect the schedule. Key milestones are now locked in, with this month set to mark the start of plant construction and mine stripping, followed by first blast activities in April, grid power energisation in July and first ore feed later in the year. Kangankunde sits 90 kilometres north of Malawis commercial hub, Blantyre and is widely recognised for its scale, high-grade mineralisation and absence of radioactive elements. Stage one is shaping up as a serious cash generator, with plans to produce a premium monazite concentrate grading about 55 per cent total rare earth oxides. The company believes the high-grade product mix will help push the operation into the lowest quartile of the global cost curve, giving it a built-in competitive edge. Advertisement Notably, the June 2024 feasibility study determined that the project has one of the lowest capital and operating cost structures of rare earths projects globally - a rare double win in a sector not known for cheap builds or easy processing. A big part of that cost advantage comes from Lindians decision to run an owner-operator mining model. By keeping the fleet in-house rather than outsourcing, the company expects to slash mining costs by about 30 per cent, tightening margins and giving management more direct control over productivity. With higher forecast production volumes and a premium concentrate, the numbers start to look even more compelling. Average annual revenue is now pegged at roughly A$228.9 million, underscoring just how meaningful Kangankunde could become as it moves from construction into steady-state production. Lindian is currently sitting on a 261 million tonne resource at 2.19 per cent TREO and, with strategic backing from Iluka Resources, has shrewdly managed to pair strong economics with execution certainty. The companys accelerating construction impetus and secured funding are now propelling Kangankunde towards recognition as one of the worlds standout undeveloped rare earths deposits and Lindian appears determined to deliver it with pace and discipline. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Bulls N' Bears Shares Sharemarket Advertisement Exclusive BusinessConsumer affairsAviation Unworkable: Airlines warn aviation reforms could drive up ticket prices Chris Zappone February 9, 2026 10:31am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Australias airlines have criticised the complexity of the governments aviation consumer protections to be turned into law this year, and say the reforms are unworkable and could increase prices for passengers. The airlines also said the framework for reform, which will establish the minimum service standards for the industry as well as remedies passengers can expect for late and cancelled flights, is confusing because it overlaps with existing consumer law that the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces. The federal government wants to introduce minimum service standards within Australias airline industry. Louie Douvis What weve got is an unworkable, complex and prescriptive set of regulations, with this entirely new agency to be created, effectively duplicating the role of the ACCC, Graeme Samuel, the chairman of airline industry group A4ANZ, told this masthead. Under the proposed framework, which the government intends to legislate in the first half of 2026, minimum standards for consumer remedies for late and cancelled flights will be set out in an aviation consumer protections charter. Advertisement The remedies discussed include requirements for food vouchers and accommodation for passengers if a flight is delayed or cancelled by the airline for matters it can control. Related Article Exclusive Aviation Air traffic controller shortages trigger calls for government monitoring The standards will be enforceable by a planned aviation consumer protection authority. A separate, independent, consumer ombudsman system will take up individual consumer complaints that cant be settled with the airline or airport. As the introduction of the legislation nears, airlines and other stakeholders have voiced concern over the structure of the plan, which would create a new regulator that would be funded by a levy on the aviation industry. Dont think that youre imposing costs on the airlines, Samuel said of the proposal. These are costs on the passengers because thats how it happens. Advertisement The proposed framework, for example, would not monitor the Australian Border Force or Airservices Australia, which can both have a direct impact on passenger delays through airports. A4ANZs submission to the Department of Infrastructure said: Almost the entirety of the proposed framework has been designed without visibility of current industry processes or the size and nature of the problem trying to be solved. Transport Minister Catherine King at the Australian Airports Association national conference in December. Glenn Hunt Imposing direct financial penalties on carriers for delays has been effectively ruled out by Transport Minister Catherine King. King said that throughout the consultation we have heard from Australians about what is and what is not working for them when travelling. Advertisement Airlines policing themselves is also not working, she said, stressing that its why the government is committed to delivering consumer protections that guarantee passengers minimum levels of service they are entitled to when things go wrong. Flyers hate cancelled and delayed flights. Bloomberg The ombudsman role is designed to deliver outcomes customers have not received from an industry-run Airline Customer Advocate, King said. Following a meeting with the Department of Infrastructure and the interim aviation industry ombudsman in early December, A4ANZs Samuel contacted the ACCC, which confirmed it intends to continue to enforce consumer law for aviation consumers. The government released its Aviation White Paper in 2024 amid white-hot consumer anger over post-COVID lockdown airline service levels, when carriers frequently cancelled flights and diverted passengers. Advertisement King has previously said the government reviewed aviation consumer law in Europe and Canada before deciding on the appropriate form for Australia, and suggested the aviation consumer ombudsman would be modelled on the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman scheme. Andy Kelly, the campaigns and communications director of consumer advocacy group CHOICE, said the reforms would complement existing Australian Consumer Law, in particular by providing clearer rights to re-book or receive a refund. Related Article Exclusive Aviation Australia too small to penalise airlines with fines, says minister Samuel said the prospect of creating another regulator, the Aviation Consumer Protection Authority, is totally contradictory to productivity reforms sought by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. We do not need yet another regulator, Samuel said. Advertisement In the December meeting, Samuel told the Department of Infrastructure staff that he absolutely guaranteed ... that within about two years, your minister is going to be embarrassed by all this. The ACCC refused to comment on its specific interactions with Samuel, but said it meets with a variety of stakeholders as required. Samuel is the former chairman of the ACCC. A lawyer who advises in the airline regulation space, including in Australia, and who asked not to be named, said the proposed reforms dont properly interact with Australian Consumer Law and pose a risk of creating an overly complicated landscape where people are not clear on their rights. Despite concerns from the airline industry, other stakeholders fear consumers interests will not be adequately defended in a domestic market served by two airline companies (the Qantas Group, which includes Jetstar, and Virgin Australia). Graeme Samuel, the chairman of airlines lobby group A4ANZ Chairman Graeme Samuel, says the new consumer protections will be unworkable. Renee Nowytarger Advertisement Adam Glezer of Consumer Champion, who has advocated for airline passengers, said the government was not planning on offering consumers anything of substance in terms of cash penalties that would actually drive behaviour change at domestic airlines. Consumers might get a slightly higher valued voucher to purchase more food from the reforms, he said. Ive got no confidence whatsoever in noticeably better outcomes for consumers, Glezer said. Im confused about what the airlines are complaining about. If I was them, I would just take this [reform] and run. Related Article Aviation Competition is toughening, but will it be enough for Qantas to lift its game? Labor senator Tony Sheldon backed the proposed aviation reform for setting clear, enforceable standards airlines and airports must meet even though improving conditions among airline workforces had an effect on outcomes for consumers. Advertisement If airline companies want fewer cancellations and delays, they need to get their act together and properly invest in their workforce that includes training, fair pay, decent conditions to retain and attract staff, said Sheldon, a former Transport Workers Union national secretary. CHOICEs Kelly said consumers currently faced a complex task of understanding their rights while flying. Having a clear set of consumer protections will help make it easier for consumers to know what theyre entitled to, he said. Of course, there are still confusing elements to the proposals which were calling on the government to consider. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning. February 9, 2026: Last year the United States imposed high tariffs on China in retaliation for theft of intellectual property and unfair trade practices. China responded with, among other things, cutting off the supplies of some rare earths, particularly samarium, which is used for essential components of many American weapons and aircraft. Currently Chins produces 85 percent of the rare earths. There are 17 rare earths but only a few of them are critical ingredients for military and commercial products. To deal with the shortage the U.S. government and individual manufacturers improvised by seeking out firms in the United States and the rest of the world that had stockpiles of rare earths. It was known that many companies that used rare earths, or had used them in the past, had unused surpluses of rare earths that were kept in storage. Rare earths are expensive, but they don't take up much space or require special environmental controls. Just put them in closed metal containers and store them indoors. Another source of rare earths was resuming mining and refining of vast rare earth deposits in the United States. Environmental regulations and the high cost of mining and refining compared to the cheaper Chinese rare earths could be solved. New extraction and refining methods do not violate environmental laws and government subsidies would enable U.S. firms to profitably provide rare earths for use by American companies. This was not the first time the United States had a rare earth crisis. Twelve years ago the U.S. Department of Defense granted the manufacturer of the new F-35 fighter a waiver for having some illegal Chinese components in newly built F-35s. The cheap Chinese components were nothing exotic; they were $2 magnets and some similar materials. These items inadvertently got into the supply chain as a Japanese subcontractor that built parts of the aircraft. An audit later discovered the Chinese parts. The manufacturer told the Department of Defense that it would cost over $10 million and weeks, if not months, to take apart the offending assemblies, replace the Chinese items with American ones and reassemble, test and reinstall everything. The Department of Defense decided to let it go to keep the much-delayed F-35s coming. Since the 1970s the U.S. has had laws banning any foreign components in American weapons. But once more American politicians and Americans in general are reminded that complex systems, including weapons, are made from components manufactured all over the world. Ironically the cheap magnets involved in the F-35 are used in several American weapons systems in addition to the F-35. These specialty magnets tend to come from China. In some cases, China is the only supplier. These magnets are made from rare earths, metals like cerium, europium, lanthanum, neodymium and yttrium. The United States used to manufacture some of these components, but China did it cheaper, and most manufacturing shifted to there over the last few decades. This dispersal of components to nations throughout the world is nothing new. It has been going on since the 1960s. Some nations have specialized in certain components, especially electronics, to such an extent that a local disaster could cause global shortages. This happened in 1999, when severe earthquakes in Taiwan shut down factories that produced the majority of the world supply of some computer components. There were worldwide shortages for months. There have been several less striking incidents since then. Same thing happened when record floods in Thailand shut down plants producing a large portion of the worldwide personal computer hard drive supply. As China has become a major industrial manufacturer, they have, like neighbors Taiwan, Japan and South Korea, come to concentrate on certain items, and acquire a world monopoly via lowest price and reasonable quality. Western nations, especially the United States and Germany, have the largest number of these mini monopolies. But what the American legislators were worried about was war with China, and an instant shortage of key weapons components. It could take months, or years, to restore necessary supply quantities. During the Cold War, there were war reserves of certain raw materials, and subsidies to keep American firms manufacturing certain components. But since the Cold War ended in 1991, there has been an enormous growth in electronic and specialty metal components. Many of these are now largely made in foreign countries, particularly Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and China. A lot of those Cold War subsidies and stockpiles were done away with after the Cold War ended in 1991. But the use of only American components laws stayed on the books and caused more and more problems. Trying to stockpile some items is more expensive than just having a lot of them sitting in a warehouse. Many manufactured items become obsolete rapidly, so many of these warehouses would suddenly be full of scrap, as they were made obsolete by new technologies. Any solution is going to cost billions, and it's unlikely the Department of Defense will be eager to give up a chunk of its budget to prepare for a long war no one wants. China reminded the world how this worked in 2010 when it halted exports of rare earths. Two months later China resumed shipments. China was trying to use its near monopoly on the production of rare earth metals to jack up prices. The reaction from the rest of the world was vigorous and hostile. Rare earths are ores that are found in tiny quantities all over the world. Because they are expensive to mine, many mining companies don't bother. But in the last century, more and more rare earths have been found to have useful applications in metallurgy, electronics and other areas. In the last few decades, China has extracted rare earths more cheaply than anyone else and driven nearly all foreign rare earth mining operations out of business. But because of the new Chinese threat, other countries are reviving their rare earth mining operations, even if it requires government subsidies and relaxed environmental regulations. Despite these efforts its still cheaper and easier to get items made with rare earths from China. Advertisement Exclusive BusinessWorkplaceEpstein fallout Jeffrey Epstein, the rockstar physicist and the Australian whistleblower Kishor Napier-Raman February 9, 2026 10:45am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Once upon a time, Lawrence Krauss was treated like royalty in Australia. Throughout the 2010s, the rockstar Canadian-American astrophysics professor, New York Times bestselling author and professional atheist was a frequent fixture at high-profile scientific conferences and a regular guest on ABCs Q+A, where he was pitted against the likes of Christian Democratic Party MP Fred Nile and One Nations newest recruit, Cory Bernardi. Melanie Thomson led the complaints about Lawrence Krauss (left), who turned to Jeffrey Epstein (right) for advice. But Australia also proved to be the site of Krauss downfall. At an Australian Skeptics gala dinner at Melbourne Zoo in 2016, microbiologist Melanie Thomson alleged she saw Krauss grope another womans breast. She subsequently raised complaints with Krauss employer, Arizona State University, and the Australian National University in Canberra, where he had an honorary professorship. Both were quietly dismissed. But in early 2018, at the height of the #MeToo era, Thomsons claims formed the basis of a BuzzFeed news report, revealing multiple accounts of inappropriate behaviour by Krauss going back over a decade, which included fondling and sexist remarks. Advertisement Arizona State investigated the incident again, this time finding that he had groped a woman at the Melbourne Zoo function. He later retired from the university, but released a statement insisting that he had never harassed or assaulted anyone. Related Article Epstein fallout Just doesnt look good for him: Why Trump and those in his orbit are untouchable As the walls were closing in, Krauss called on a powerful friend to help manage Thomsons claims: Jeffrey Epstein. The late paedophile financier cultivated extraordinary connections with global elites, from princes and prime ministers to academics and intellectuals. Krauss was no exception. His organisations received thousands of dollars in donations from Epstein. Beyond anything else, you are my friend. I hope we can both always remember that, no matter what, he told Epstein in a 2011 email. Advertisement One of Krauss organisations, the Origins Project, received $250,000 in donations from Epstein between 2010 and 2017. This was after Epstein had cut a sweetheart deal in 2008 to serve just 13 months jail time in Florida (with work release during the day) after pleading guilty to procuring a child for prostitution. Despite the plea, Krauss continued to defend him. As a scientist I always judge things on empirical evidence and he always has women ages 19 to 23 around him, but Ive never seen anything else, so as a scientist, my presumption is that whatever the problems were I would believe him over other people, Krauss told the Daily Beast in 2011. I dont feel tarnished in any way by my relationship with Jeffrey, I feel raised by it, Krauss said. When the United States Department of Justice released another immense tranche of documents relating to Epsteins activities, thousands of emails showing the strength of that relationship spilled into view. Advertisement Related Article Epstein fallout I regret ever knowing him: Bill Gates denies Epstein claim in latest release of files Written in Epsteins trademark stream-of-consciousness style, matched with Krauss own loose commitment to regular grammar, the exchanges show the pair initially discussing the physicists regular trips to Australia. In correspondence from 2014, Krauss asks whether Epstein will bring his private jet to Australia to help transport his cat back to the US, floating the possibility of the pair visiting the amazing art museum in Hobart together a reference to the Tasmanian capitals Museum of Old and New Art. In another email from the previous year, they discuss Krauss coming 2014 wedding to his Australian wife, Nancy Dahl. There actually will be some interesting people at wedding.. mostly from australia, and mostly fcmaic [sic].. though too old for you, Krauss says. Advertisement There is no suggestion Dahl was aware of or had any involvement in Krauss relationship with Epstein. From mid-2017 onwards, after Thomson first made her complaint, and BuzzFeeds journalists began their investigation, Epstein and Krauss discussion turned towards reputation management, with the financier acting as a sometime legal adviser, press secretary, sounding board and therapist. Ill be there for you every day, no worries, Epstein assured Krauss in late 2017. In March 2018, weeks after the BuzzFeed story broke, Krauss emailed Justin Dillon, a Washington, DC-based lawyer specialising in campus discipline cases, telling him that before they could sign a retainer, he would first need to speak to Epstein, who was later forwarded the messages. I have been advised through much of the BuzzFeed experience, both before and after, by a friend, who is also somewhat infamous. His name is Jeffrey Epstein, and you may know who he is already, Krauss said. Advertisement Bottom line Is that Jeffrey is not only friends with most of the famous people from finance, to business, to Hollywood, who have either been brought down during#metoo and he also speaks regularly with people ranging from the awful white house people, who he is friends with, to ken start [sic]. Related Article Epstein fallout Starmer should resign as well, MPs demand, as key aide quits That appears to be a reference to former US solicitor general Ken Starr, who helped impeach Bill Clinton and served on Epsteins legal team. Dillon declined to comment. In September 2018, shortly before he retired from Arizona State, Krauss discussed the possibility of bringing defamation action in Australia against Thomson and BuzzFeed with a woman described in the files by Krauss as an Australian journalist, a strong supporter and friend of ours. You cant touch them in the US, but in Australia you can smash them, the person wrote, pointing to the more-plaintiff-friendly defamation laws in NSW. Advertisement The woman, whose true identity is not revealed, provided Krauss with detailed background about the Australian legal system, suggesting that he approach top defamation silk and former ABC Media Watch host Stuart Littlemore for advice, in correspondence also forwarded to Epstein. There is no suggestion that the woman was aware that Epstein was also advising Krauss or that her emails were being forwarded to him. Epstein did not approve. no [sic] sure why you take advice from random people with no expertise, Epstein said of the womans suggestions. I am not taking advise. I am passing it on. She is a journalist and has been thru the defamation mill. Littlemore is the go to guy there. A real prick it looks like, Krauss said. Advertisement Hes a gunslinger. You want to hire gunslingers. If they win, you want them on your side. I think it is worth approaching him and getting his opinion, he said of Littlemore. Littlemore told this masthead hed never been approached by Krauss or Epstein and this masthead does not suggest otherwise. But Epstein disapproved of his friend suing in Australia so to be clear I will not fund, he said of Krauss desire to approach Littlemore. i cant [sic] participate in you damagin [sic] yourself. Advertisement Advertisement Krauss did not respond to attempts to contact him via his website and email. A person who answered a number listed as Krauss personal telephone in the Epstein files hung up when this masthead explained the purpose of the call. In a statement provided to The New York Times last year, Krauss said that he sought advice from everyone he knew after Epstein was accused of sexual misconduct. Melanie Thomson is one of the few people to be named in the Epstein files and have her reputation enhanced. As should be noted, none of the communications with Epstein relate in any way to the horrendous crimes he was accused of in 2019. I was as shocked as the rest of the world when he was arrested, he said. Thomson, who made the initial complaint about Krauss, has since left the scientific profession and relocated to Northern England. She told this masthead she was unaware Krauss had contemplated suing her, or had discussions about this with Epstein, until the Department of Justice released documents last week. Advertisement Thomson said that when she first went public with her complaint about Krauss, she knew she was risking professional backlash, and possible litigation, but decided to take one for the team on behalf of other women in science. We knew he [Krauss] was litigious, and now we know hed done all that legal sabre-rattling with Epstein helping him out, she said. But I decided that Im gonna stare you down, and you can blink. Come at me bro. The saga has left Thomson with a rare distinction. She is one of the few people to be mentioned in the Epstein documents her name appears 38 times and emerge with their reputation enhanced. Im now the cool mum because Im in the Epstein files for the right reasons, she said. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning. Advertisement EnvironmentConservationWildlife The Sydney suburbs where developers are killing the most wildlife Caitlin Fitzsimmons February 9, 2026 5:27pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Developers delivering Sydneys housing construction boom are cutting costs by killing native animals as a first resort or relying on volunteer organisations to work for free, a NSW parliamentary inquiry heard. Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES), which operates across much of the state, and Sydney Wildlife Rescue, which has an urban focus, told the NSW inquiry into licences to harm native animals on Monday that the system was not fit for purpose. A family of flying foxes at Parramatta Park in January. Sitthixay Ditthavong The Upper House inquiry chaired by Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst is focused on non-commercial licences given to private landholders under a regime introduced by the former government in 2016. This includes farmers and urban property owners. Jessica Crause, chair of the central branch for Sydney Wildlife Rescue, testified that she often witnessed the licences leading to cruelty [that] is significant and visible and this occurred in all areas of high development in Sydney, but some more than others. Advertisement Its sometimes postcode dependent I end up in the same suburbs over and over and over because the licences are being reissued over and over and over, Crause said. Rainbow lorikeets are well adapted to urban areas. Joe Armao The locations are places like Bankstown, Auburn, Chullora, Yagoona all around that realm where lethal management seems to be the first step and there is no room, in my experience, for educating the member of the public for non-lethal control. You then get a lot around Sutherland Shire, where it is carte blanche were poisoning this [animal], but now weve got 65 to 70 sulphur-crested cockatoos and corellas who are the secondary poisoned animal as a result of lethal poisoning of another species. Ibises are a common native bird in Sydney. Janie Barrett Advertisement In some cases, pest removalists set up traps and then fail to return, Crause said, so possums are trapped for weeks or non-target species such as brush turkeys left to boil to death in the sun. Trees with active nests are often felled or lopped, with outcomes for the birds including being thrown into a chipper by arborists, witnessed by children ... left on the verge, dying after trees have been removed, getting hit by cars, and chainsawed in half, she told the inquiry. A peregrine falcon flies between city buildings. Simon Schluter At one point, she said, her wildlife group had 50 chicks and eggs from hollow-dwelling birds dropped off in a four-week period, including threatened species such as gang-gang cockatoos, raptors and parrots. When wildlife rescue groups are engaged, outcomes are better, Crause said. Volunteers often had detailed local knowledge about the length of the nesting season or could advise on non-lethal measures. Advertisement She described a case in the Sydney CBD in which a building owner was issued a licence to shoot peregrine falcons on a building where they had nested for decades because they were swooping workers rappelling down the side of the skyscraper. Peregrine falcons in cities help control populations of rats and pigeons. Crause spent more than 100 hours, 16 site visits and significant financial resources helping the building owner find non-lethal solutions such as training the peregrine falcons not to swoop people in high-visibility clothing. Since then, no falcons had died and six to 10 chicks had fledged, she said. A possum in a Sydney suburb. David Porter Crause said it was unreasonable for the government to rely solely on volunteer organisations to deal the impact of licences held by commercial enterprises. Dr Colin Salter, policy lead at WIRES, said reform was needed, but it should not further burden the volunteer wildlife rescue sector. Advertisement We have projects going through environmental impact assessment as part of their requirements saying theyll have volunteer wildlife carers on site so their multi-million or hundreds-of-million-dollar projects can go ahead on the expectation that the volunteers will provide this service at no cost, Salter said. This is an endemic issue. Corellas roosting in the traffic lights. Louise Kennerley Nationals MP Scott Barrett asked whether it was acceptable for people to be unable to use their backyards or local parks because of the stink and risk of disease caused by colonies of bats. Salter said flying foxes were an important part of the ecological community and it was important to find ways to co-exist. We need to shift our efforts to think about managing conflict [with wildlife], as opposed to managing wildlife in itself, Salter said. Advertisement The WIRES submission says inexcusable harm is implicit and explicit in the licensing program and calls for greater transparency. Related Article Exclusive Wildlife NSW launched a review of wildlife care in 2024. Now the results are in Sydney Wildlife Rescue also recommends making it mandatory for applicants to demonstrate they have tried non-lethal mitigation before getting a licence, and for enhanced reporting to include the impact on joeys, fledglings and eggs left orphaned by licensed killing. Humane World for Animals wildlife program manager Dr Renae Charalambous said a dramatic increase in licences meant an average of one animal being shot, poisoned or otherwise destroyed every minute in 2025. Get to the heart of whats happening with climate change and the environment. Sign up for our fortnightly Environment newsletter. CORRECTION An earlier version of this story incorrectly referred to Liberal MP Scott Barrow. Its been corrected to say Nationals MP Scott Barrett. Advertisement Eating outFood $80 pizza isnt the story at this new Newstead slice shop Imported from the Melbourne suburbs and inspired (in part) by New York, heres why this Gasworks spot deserves your attention. Matt Shea February 9, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A It was a real nothingburger of a story. Or nothingpizza, perhaps. A Newstead local visited Sunnyside Sliced, took a long-range video of the menu board, and baulked at the price of an $80 pizza. TikTok had a conniption. Sunnhside Sliced opened at Gasworks Plaza in late January. Markus Ravik The clue was in the name, of course. This is a slice shop, New York-style, built to sell pizza by the slice. And if its New York-style, that means an entire pizza, if youre inclined to buy one, is a monster as much as 2 times the size of a typical Napoli-style pizza. Yes, some of the pricing for the whole pizzas has gone up at Newstead a $20 premium for the White Truffle pizza being the most notable indexation over the original Mentone shop, in south-east Melbourne. But just as many are cheaper at Newstead, and going back to the slices they tend to be the same price or cheaper than down south. Advertisement Related Article West End finally welcomes a 12-seat sushi stunner with Michelin cred Im trying to be that business where your 17-year-old who works at Woolworths can buy a slice on her way home twice a week and isnt second-guessing the price, owner Ali Cengiz says. Thats why Ive gone in at $7 for a cheese slice and pepperoni slice because I want my brand to be for everybody. Cengiz and the TikToker (who, to be fair, likely never intended his post to go that viral) eventually made good, but it put an unnecessary downer on a debut thats been in the pipeline for three years, give or take, after the original Mentone restaurant opened in 2021. Originally opening in Mentone in Melbournes south-east, Newstead is just Sunnysides second store. Markus Ravik Ask Cengiz about the origins of Sunnyside Sliced and you might get a false start or two, as he takes a moment to trace it back himself. The Mentone restaurant was originally intended to pay homage to the food of Brooklyn, he says, and ended up instead paying homage to his familys history in pizza. Advertisement Cengizs background at the time was in finance, but hed grown up working at his dads pizza shop, Alis Pizza, in Cranbourne, deep in Melbournes south-east back in 1991, customers didnt know what olives were, he says, laughing and, during a stint in New York, hed fallen hard for Joes Pizza, the iconic West Village slice shop. Sunnysides pizza is designed to be sold by the slice. Markus Ravik It was Manhattan at midnight on a Wednesday, and the place was pumping with people having a good time, he says. For me, it was wabi-sabi, beautifully imperfect. Mentone is designed for dining in as much as it is takeaway. Newstead, which opened at the end of January, is more of a straightforward counter operation inside Gasworks Plaza. But the offering across the two is much the same, revolving around pizza served by the slice. The menu splits the difference between New York-inspired round and pan pizza. Advertisement If you do opt for a whole pizza, however, they are enormous - much larger than a Napoli-style pizza. Markus Ravik Round slices include the Sunnyside Cheese (a blend of different Italian mozzarellas and aged parmesan, finished with basil), the Pepperoni Classic (provolone and pepperoni), the Hella Honey (provolone, chorizo, jalapeno, Bippi hot honey) and the Red Truffle (tartufo cheese, mushroom, black truffle pate). The pan pizza is prepared in custom-made rectangular pans sourced from the United States. Both proofed and baked for longer, the result is a thick, airy crust with a crisp, olive oil-fried base. Toppings include the New Mexico (Napoli tomato, provolone, chorizo, capsicum, onion, jalapeno), the Pickle Vodka (three cheese, vodka sauce and shallots, finished with a dill pickle sauce by Mats Hot Shop) and the White Truffle (tartufo cheese, mushroom, caramelised onion, black truffle pate). Sunnyside Sliced Newstead has been doing a swift trade since opening. Markus Ravik Advertisement Theres also a trio of sub sandwiches and a pair of sides, but the pasta dishes from Mentone havent made the trip north. For his pizza, Cengiz is using Caputo semolina flour imported from Italy and ferments his dough for two days in a temperature controlled glass room that sits separate from the baking operation. Out front is a triple-deck Moretti Forni pizza oven with a refractory brick baking surface for whole pizzas, and a triple-deck Moretti Forni conveyor oven for the slices. Sunnyside Sliced owner Ali Cengiz. Markus Ravik Theres a stainless-steel counter out front and a handsome menu up top, and thats all there is to it. Much of the personality of the shop is expressed through its cute branding, courtesy of Pete Johnson of CIP Creative. Cengiz says, all viral TikTok posts aside, the reception in Newstead has been positive, with the stores first week matching his best week in relatively sleepy Mentone. Advertisement I honestly couldnt tell you clearly how much money Mentone is making right now, he says. But thats why Im doubling down on the brand and expansion. This is such a different beast, 73 square metres compared to 200 square metres. But Im already learning a lot and meeting new people. You can see it opening new doors. Open daily 11am-9pm Gasworks Plaza, 76 Skyring Terrace, Newstead sunnysidesliced.com.au Advertisement NationalNSWCity life McDonalds goes for seconds in Newtown trading bid David Barwell February 9, 2026 10:30am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A McDonalds has relaunched a bid to open a restaurant in the heart of Newtown, scaling back trading hours and tightening operational controls after the City of Sydney rejected an earlier proposal in the face of widespread community opposition. Four months after a council planning panel refused the fast-food giants $1.7 million plan for a 24-hour outlet at 212-214 King Street, the company has submitted a revised development proposal aimed at addressing concerns raised by residents, business owners and NSW Police. McDonalds is pushing ahead with plans to open on King Street despite council refusing its original planning application. Peter Rae The original proposal sparked a strong backlash, attracting more than 1400 formal objections and two petitions signed by a further 3269 people. NSW Police were among those opposed, warning that a 24-hour McDonalds could become a flashpoint for late-night disorder due to the sites proximity to public transport and nearby licensed venues. Under the revised plans, the restaurant would close at 11pm, Sundays to Thursdays, and 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, with the later weekend trading hours subject to a trial period. Advertisement The outlet would operate primarily as a takeaway venue, with seating for just 12 customers on the ground floor of the existing two-storey building. King Street in Newtown has long been known for its unique flair. Rhett Wyman Despite the concessions, opposition to the plans has not abated. Instead, the proposal has intensified debate about the identity and future of one of Sydneys best known inner-city strips. Local business owners and community groups argue that a McDonalds would undermine Newtowns independent character and accelerate what they describe as a creeping commercialisation of King Street. The strip has not hosted a McDonalds since the 1990s, and many residents see the return of the multinational chain as symbolic of broader changes reshaping the suburb. Advertisement Sylvia Tran, owner of nearby eatery Belly Bao, said the arrival of McDonalds would fundamentally alter Newtowns identity. La Favola owner Fabio Stefanelli, at his restaurant in Newtown, has concerns over the new McDonalds outlet. Wolter Peeters McDonalds is not just another restaurant its a powerful multinational with resources that far exceed any local operator, she said. Concerns about competition are already acute along King Street, which some locals now refer to as a chicken strip. Within a 200-metre radius, at least six chicken-focused chains operate, including KFC, El Jannah, Gami Chicken & Beer and Wingboy. Ogalo Newtown owner Razwan Raza, who has traded on King Street for almost a decade, said the impact of major chains was already being felt. Advertisement KFC already affected us, and a McDonalds will leave no other choice than to permanently close our business, he said. All the small restaurants will close. Others point to structural pressures affecting inner-city shopping strips, particularly rising commercial rents. Italian restaurateur Fabio Stefanelli, who has run La Favola in Newtown for the past 10 years, said that maintaining an independent business had become increasingly difficult. We all want to keep Newtown independent and unique, but the reality is rents have gone higher and higher, he said. For family businesses to survive, you need to work extremely long hours just to stay afloat, and thats why you see the same types of shops opening everywhere. Unless youre a big player like McDonalds, its incredibly hard to manage rent, supply costs and wages, all of which keep rising. Advertisement Newtown resident Liam Coffey, who helped to organise a campaign against the original proposal, said he remained opposed to McDonalds in principle but felt conflicted given the affordability crisis. As much as I dont support McDonalds, who else is offering $2 hamburgers? No one, he said. Coffey said the popularity of fast food highlighted a broader policy failure to provide affordable, healthy alternatives. In an ideal world wed have food pantries or genuinely affordable healthy options, but what is the council or state government doing to make that happen? Nothing. Advertisement When the cheapest option around is a kids meal at Guzman y Gomez, theres clearly a problem. In refusing the original application, the City of Sydney cited concerns about operating hours, limited seating capacity, management of delivery riders, waste storage and collection, and the design of the street frontage. Related Article Sydney councils The Sydney suburbs falling out of love with fast food The decision followed a similar refusal in May last year, when a proposed 24-hour McDonalds in Redfern was rejected due to traffic, noise and operational impacts. In its revised submission, McDonalds said the reduced trading hours aligned with the councils late-night trading controls and reflected feedback from police and the community. Advertisement A McDonalds spokeswoman said the company had worked to address community and council concerns. Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the council could only assess the development proposals against the planning merits of the application, as opposed to the identity of an applicant. While I cant comment on the development application currently under assessment, I encourage the community to look at the plans and consider making a submission for the council to consider, she said. The City of Sydney will determine whether the revised proposal sufficiently addresses the reasons for refusal, with a decision expected later this year. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement NationalNSWEducation The Sydney suburbs running out of kindergarten students Christopher Harris and Nigel Gladstone Updated February 9, 2026 2:48pm ,first published February 8, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Kindergarten classrooms in some of Sydneys wealthiest suburbs are emptying out as enrolments plummet in the face of skyrocketing rents and house prices, effectively dividing Sydney by what some economists have termed a fertility wall. The number of kindergarten pupils at eastern suburbs public schools Maroubra Bay, Coogee, Waverley, Vaucluse and Bondi Beach all declined by over 50 per cent in the past eight years, enrolment data reveals. Other areas close to the city have had dramatic falls, such as Taverners Hill Infants School in Petersham, where enrolments dropped from 25 kindergarten students in 2018 to just four last year, according to the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority data. KPMG urban economist Terry Rawnsley said greater Sydney was increasingly divided by a fertility wall separating areas of high and low birth rates. Advertisement When you crack open the map of Sydney, theres a real east-west divide, he said. Were still seeing pretty high birth rates of two and a half children per woman in the western suburbs. In the east, it is dropping down to less than one. Coogee Public went from 111 kindergarten students in 2018 to 40 enrolled last year. Coogees average rent has increased from $800 per week eight years ago to $1611 this year, which Rawnsley said was directly affecting the number of children living in the built-up suburb. Having one child in a two-bedroom apartment makes sense. Having three children doesnt make sense, he said. Advertisement Rawnsley said ABS data had historically shown it was pretty uncommon for a Coogee family to move to Marsden Park on Sydneys outskirts. If you really were searching for more space from Coogee, youd end up in Marrickville or Earlwood, he said. But families living along the coast were also more likely to leave Sydney entirely, opting to move to regional centres like Newcastle or the Gold Coast, which further reduced Sydneys birthrate. The other unique Sydney factor is that more and more young people are priced out of the city completely, Rawnsley said. Sydney is having this hollowing out of families which would be having children, which then compounds the decline in the overall number of births. The drop in kindergarten students came as no surprise to Maroubra mother Emma Bayley, whose son Jimmy, 5, started kindergarten this year. Advertisement She opted not to send him to their zoned school but rather to Randwick Public a few suburbs over because it had a great reputation and it still had a sizeable number of children, which attracted a greater pool of funding. I really pushed to get him in, she said. I was the annoying parent who called Randwick Public every single day about my application because we didnt feel we had another option. Jimmy Bayley, 5, pictured with eight-year-old brother Jackson, was zoned for a school in Maroubra but instead attends Randwick Public due to his mothers concerns about the schools shrinking size. Max Mason-Hubers Bayley, a nurse who grew up locally, said their rent had increased from $560 a week over a decade ago to just over $1000 today. She said thered been a significant demographic shift across the eastern suburbs. When I grew up, there was not one house which was double-storey on my street, she said. Advertisement Everything has gone up. I went to Bronte Public. The parents at that school now, theyre living in mansions, the whole area is built up. I have no idea where all this money comes from. Related Article Primary school The 10 signs a child is ready to start kindergarten Shrinking kindergarten cohorts are not just limited to the east and inner west enrolments at Gordon East, Hunters Hill, Northbridge and Castle Cove public schools also fell by over 50 per cent. Parramatta Public has also had a considerable loss of kindergarten students following the creation of additional schools in the area. Rents in that suburb have also increased sharply in recent years. On the other side of the so-called fertility wall, Al-Faisal Colleges Campbelltown, Liverpool and Austral campuses had a combined 407 kindergarten students last year, making it one of the largest cohorts in the state. Advertisement Northbourne Public School in Marsden Park, in Sydneys northwest, was the biggest single public school: it has 240 kindergarten students. Australian Christian College at Marsden Park has had the largest growth in kindergarten student numbers in the state, growing from 29 to 119 students within eight years. Principal Brendan Corr said the school received 200 applications for kindergarten from parents attracted to the religious principles of the school and its strong record of academic excellence. Some use it as a springboard to get into selective high schools. We have a high proportion of families who sit the selective school entrance exams and then a significant proportion who are offered places in year seven, he said. Fees were about $5500 for kindergarten, which he says were on the lower side for other local private schools. Families are making decisions about whether they will come based on changes to their financial circumstances, he said. Foot traffic in Melbourne CBD has failed to return to pre-COVID levels and probably never will. A missing Monday crowd. A silent Friday lunch. These are the CBD areas transformed by Melbournes vanishing 20 per cent. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A The City Limits series investigates how Melbourne CBD has weathered the long shadow of the pandemic amid changing workplace, retail and entertainment trends. See all stories . In a city crawling out from the long shadow of the coronavirus pandemic, almost 10,000 fewer people walk through some of Melbournes busiest areas daily. Hulking office precincts resemble concrete wastelands twice a week, and businesses plaster frenzied advertisements over walls and phone screens, vying for attention beside shuttered shopfronts. Melbourne has become an 80 per cent city, according to an analysis of City of Melbourne pedestrian data, which looked at six key inner-city locations, and found that four out of every five footsteps returned to CBD pavements. The data in the interactive map above shows that the busy pockets of Melbourne CBD tell a similar story: foot traffic plummeted during lockdown and hasnt yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. At Southern Cross Station on weekdays, foot traffic is 65 per cent of what it was pre-COVID. At Flinders Street Station, it has returned to 77 per cent. In Bourke Street, foot traffic is just over half of what it once was; however, it rebounded after Meccas flagship store opened there last winter. This is the portrait revealed by a decade of foot traffic data, exposing a city that never recovered after COVID-19 permanently changed it. Advertisement And it begins, as many trips into the city do, at Melbournes largest and busiest train stations. At Southern Cross, foot traffic nosedived by 35 per cent since 2018-19. In 2024-25, about 17,700 people were clocked near its Collins Street entrance on an average weekday. Photo: Matt Golding The stations outskirts are still busiest during morning and evening peaks, but foot traffic is down for every hour of the day compared with 2018-19. Between 8am and 9am, when office workers tend to arrive in the city, about 2700 pedestrians are recorded on a typical weekday, down from about 4100 six years ago. Working from home is the biggest contributor to Melbournes plummeting pedestrian numbers, KPMG urban economist Terry Rawnsley says. The decline at Southern Cross Station is almost bang on as workers attend the office three days a week, instead of five. The flow-on effects are less obvious, unless you are a trader forced to accept that business has radically changed. Advertisement Take, for instance, Cecconis Flinders Lane: an upmarket Italian restaurant catering to high-level corporates for two decades. It has all but scrapped its first Friday dinner sitting because the post-work crowd is non-existent. Company executives tell operations manager Nicoletta Sylvester they have more desks than staff in the city, especially on Mondays and Fridays. The Southern Cross Station sensor records an average of about 20,000 pedestrians on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, but that figure drops to about 14,400 on Mondays and 11,700 on Fridays. Of the primary office attendance days, Tuesdays are the busiest by a small margin, followed by Wednesdays and then Thursdays, the data shows. Cecconis Nicoletta Sylvester has scaled back the restaurants post-work Friday sitting because of a lack of office workers in Melbournes CBD. Simon Schluter The post-COVID spending boom is a distant memory, Sylvester says. You know, last Friday I remember looking [around] it would have been four oclock in the afternoon, and there was hardly any foot traffic, she says. I was like: Where is everyone? Advertisement Even if there was just one extra day that people were coming into the CBD, I think that would be different. The Allan government is poised to make working from home a legal right in 2026, and hospitality venues now face the additional battle of competing with more suburban restaurants and cafes, which opened out of necessity during COVID (Cecconis opened its own Toorak venture soon after, in 2023). It takes more work to entice diners back into the city; when they make it there, many are no longer satisfied with just a meal they want a dining experience and feeling like theyre getting value for money, Sylvester says. The shift in attitudes has forced businesses to invest more in social media and marketing, or risk being weeded out of the industry. Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece argues that the city has found a new rhythm, with less foot traffic in some areas but more people spending big. Advertisement When people are in the city, they are making the most of it, spending more on dining and weekend retail compared to pre-pandemic levels, he says. Melbourne is at its best when our workplaces are full and we will keep advocating to businesses and the state government to get more workers back into the office. Sylvester says the days are gone when businesses could rely on CBD positioning, quality products and knowing their market to guarantee success. Instead, they have to be strategic for example, by taking advantage of leasing incentives offered by landlords due to Melbournes high vacancy rates. Melbournes office vacancy rate remains the highest of any Australian capital city, after COVID created a perfect storm that only began subsiding in the past 18 months, commercial real estate agency CBREs research manager Cameron Douglas-Perrine says. The vacancy rate is sitting at about 19 per cent, up from about 3 per cent in 2019 on par with the lowest in the country before the largest supply wave in more than two decades. The timing also coincided with corporations, including the big banks, racing to secure Melbourne office space in a tight market only to be met with disastrous post-pandemic office attendance. Advertisement Advertisement Exclusive NationalVictoriaWomen's health Why some doctors think endometriosis is being treated with unnecessary surgery Henrietta Cook and Liam Mannix February 8, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A A Melbourne gynaecologist has surrendered his medical registration after being accused of performing unnecessary endometriosis surgeries, fuelling broader concerns about ineffective treatments for the painful condition. The allegations coincide with new data showing the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has received about 225 complaints about medical practitioners who treated and managed endometriosis between 2021-22 and 2023-24. Women are increasingly getting surgery for endometriosis. Monique Westermann Top medical leaders are warning that after decades of underdiagnosing endometriosis and ignoring womens pain, the media spotlight on the disease has led to too many women having surgery that is not backed by robust evidence. The number of surgeries to treat endometriosis almost doubled between 2016 and 2023, according to government data. Advertisement Related Article Exclusive Women's health Wild with rage: It took Jacinta Allan more than a decade to learn the source of her pain Dr Simon Gordon is being investigated by AHPRA over allegations he performed surgery on women to treat endometriosis, including removing their ovaries, despite no clinical evidence justifying these procedures. Gordon, who abruptly closed his East Melbourne clinic late last year, said he decided to retire in November for personal reasons and had always acted ethically and responsibly. He denies the allegations and said he performed surgery to treat endometriosis only when he was absolutely convinced it was in a patients best interests. For generations, the pain suffered by women was ignored, downplayed and untreated, he said. My concern was to try and alleviate pain and restore quality of life for female patients, a cohort once neglected and dismissed. Advertisement He said the overwhelming majority of his patients were referred to him following initial care with a primary gynaecologist and most of them already had a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis or adenomyosis (a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into the muscular outer wall of the uterus). Gordon, who worked at public and private hospitals including the Epworth, said the vast majority of the surgeries he performed were successful in relieving or eliminating patients pain. No surgeon can ever guarantee that every surgery performed will be totally successful or that theres not a genuine risk of recurrence. Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Tom Ballantyne said he had received 15 inquiries from women who were concerned about the treatment provided by Gordon. It has invariably involved issuing very aggressive treatment for endometriosis, including the removal of ovaries and in a few extreme cases, hysterectomy, he said. Advertisement Some of these patients are concerned that the treatment was unnecessary and they may not have even had endometriosis. You are dealing with patients with very debilitating symptoms; they want answers. This masthead does not suggest the complaints are true, only that they have been made. From underdiagnosis to overtreatment? Endometriosis is a painful, inflammatory condition characterised by tissue similar to the lining of the womb growing outside it. It is very difficult for researchers to assess the true rate of endometriosis in a country, but Australian government data suggests 14 per cent of women will be diagnosed by age 49. It typically takes five to 12 years to get a diagnosis. Twenty-six per cent of women with endometriosis also experience infertility. Advertisement Weve been underdiagnosing endometriosis forever, said Professor Jason Abbott, who sits on the endometriosis advisory group to the federal government. The condition is the poster child for medical misogyny; for decades, many women with pelvic pain were dismissed or told it was a normal part of being a woman. That is changing. The federal government has invested $127 million in a national action plan and plans to open 33 endometriosis clinics across the country. Since 2011, the proportion of women diagnosed with endometriosis by GPs almost doubled, while the rate of women under 44 attending hospital for endometriosis procedures is up 47 per cent over a similar time frame. Advertisement Many celebrate this as a rightful correction. But some researchers and pain specialists argue the publicity has led women in pain to become too focused on endometriosis diagnosis and treatment despite only a proportion of pelvic pain being attributable to endometriosis. Many women have clinical endometriosis but no symptoms or pain. The rate of asymptomatic endometriosis is as high as 44 per cent in some studies. Were under-acknowledging period pelvic pain, and trying to attribute it all to endometriosis, said Professor Sonia Grover, a gynaecologist and pain medicine specialist at the Royal Childrens Hospital, who has led trials of endometriosis interventions. The correlation between pain and endometriosis is unclear. Why call it endometriosis when you can just call it shocking period pain and get on and treat the period pain? Why pathologise her with a label? Its obviously painful, but it does not mean its endometriosis. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) released guidelines on diagnosing and treating endometriosis in May. The College of Anaesthetists Faculty of Pain Medicine was consulted in the writing of those guidelines, but grew so concerned they placed too big an emphasis on surgery that it put out its own position statement, said Associate Professor Michael Vagg, director of professional affairs at the Faculty of Pain Medicine. Advertisement The long-held paradigm that endometriosis lesions are a direct cause of persistent pelvic pain is no longer tenable, the statement reads. Surgical treatment of lesions has not been shown to reliably improve pain and disability outcomes. Some evidence suggests that ill-advised surgery may in fact worsen outcomes for some women. Dr Nisha Khot, president of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Justin McManus RANZCOG president Dr Nisha Khot said that while surgery was vital for removing endometriotic cysts which can cause pain by rupturing or twisting there was weak evidence supporting improvements in pain or quality of life following the surgical removal of other types of endometriosis lesions. She expressed concern about repeat operations. If women are needing more than two surgeries, then that needs to be carefully considered within a team of experts, she said. As a clinician ... if Id done a couple of surgeries and the patients symptoms were still there, I would be questioning myself: Am I helping this person? Advertisement Related Series Medical misogyny Medical misogyny She said ultrasound, rather than a laparoscopy, should be used to diagnose endometriosis. Oral contraceptives, according to Khot, are often an effective first-line treatment for managing the symptoms. We are still learning what the evidence is for and against surgery, she said. If you look, especially at some of the older studies, youll find evidence on both sides, and that makes it difficult to make decisions and counsel women. A diagnosis of endometriosis can be helpful for many women, according to Khot. Pain is a diagnosis. Saying that you have pain and validating that you have pain is not a failure of diagnosis. It is a diagnosis. Advertisement The laparoscopy dilemma Laparoscopy is a form of keyhole surgery that allows a surgeon to access pelvic and abdominal cavities via the abdomen. Surgeons can use it to visualise and cut out endometrial tissue. The number of women with endometriosis undergoing surgery to cut out the tissue has risen dramatically, from about 10,800 in 2016-17 to about 19,700 in 2022-23, government data shows. If you raise awareness, the corollary of that is lots of people think they have got something, said Professor Martha Hickey, director of the Womens Gynaecology Research Centre. The reality is pelvic pain is very common in women, and a lot of the time its not endometriosis. Yet the evidence for laparoscopy remains deeply controversial. A 2021 Cochrane review of laparoscopic removal of endometriosis considered gold-standard evidence concluded it was uncertain if it provided effective pain relief, but probably improved fertility. Advertisement Its obviously painful, but it does not mean its endometriosis. Professor Sonia Grover Abbott, who is also chair of the National Endometriosis Clinical and Scientific Trials Network, disagreed with that assessment. He authored a small 2004 clinical trial that found 80 per cent of women undergoing a laparoscopic excision improved their symptoms beating a placebo. Further work is, of course, needed, but ignoring the current high-quality evidence is regressive, he said. Diagnosis also remains controversial. The College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines recommend using ultrasound and MRI to diagnose endometriosis. But a 2016 Cochrane review concluded imaging was not accurate enough to replace diagnostic surgery. Advertisement Professor Sonia Grover led a 2021 study that randomised 471 women presenting at Mercy Hospital with chronic pelvic pain to two gynaecology units, one specialising in surgery and the other in pain management. The women randomised to the surgical unit were 65 per cent more likely to have surgery. Yet they were no more likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis. An AHPRA spokesman said of the steady stream of complaints the watchdog had received about practitioners linked to endometriosis, about half were related to clinical care and about 20 per cent raised concerns about communication. He said six practitioners working in the endometriosis space had conditions placed on their registration and five practitioners were issued cautions. We are unable to comment on any individual or matter outside information published on the register or in a tribunal decision, he said when asked about Gordon. Advertisement Related Article Investigation Medical misogyny I thought I was insane: Doctors kept ignoring Keiras pain. It almost killed her A spokeswoman for Epworth HealthCare said Gordon had notified the hospital of his retirement in October last year. AHPRA does not routinely notify hospitals when it commences investigations into current or former visiting medical officers, she said. From time to time, AHPRA may request patient records from a hospital. Those requests are typically framed around specific matters and do not identify an individual practitioner. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalSocial media Anika Wells seeks urgent meeting with Roblox over predator claims Michelle Griffin Updated February 10, 2026 12:17pm ,first published February 9, 2026 9:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Communications Minister Anika Wells has written to controversial video game giant Roblox seeking an urgent meeting following reports that children on the popular platform have been exposed to sexually explicit and suicide-related material. Roblox, which boasts more than 150 million daily users worldwide, was carved out of Australias social media ban even though Australian Federal Police said last year that it was among platforms that had been infiltrated by right-wing extremists and Islamic State propaganda, and was used by sadistic gangs goading young girls to harm themselves. Communications Minister Anika Wells wants to find out what steps Roblox is taking to make its platform safe for younger users. Alex Ellinghausen While eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said last year that Roblox could not be included in the ban as its primary purpose was gaming, not social media, Wells has asked Inman Grant what she can do under her powers to clamp down on abusers, and has also written to the Classifications Board seeking a revision of games PG rating. In an extract of the letter to Roblox provided by Wells office, she writes that she is alarmed by reports of children being exposed to graphic and gratuitous user-generated content on the platform, including sexually explicit and suicidal material. Advertisement She goes on to say she was spurred to seek the meeting in part by news reports last week that a 27-year-old Queensland man had been charged with 596 offences relating to 259 children he is alleged to have groomed through social media and gaming platforms. Related Article Social media The great scroll off: Inside Australias world-first teen social media ban Roblox has, since last November, rolled out age verification controls aimed at restricting its chat function to users of similar ages, with no ability to message if users dont use the facial recognition age service. However, there are widespread reports of teens fooling the verification tools and signing up as adults. In the letter, Wells tells Roblox that as these issues appear to persist, she wants to meet company representatives to find out what steps they are taking to make their platform safe for younger users. Advertisement The reports weve been hearing about children being exposed to graphic content on Roblox, and predators actively using the platform to groom young people, are horrendous. Something must be done now, Wells said in a statement. Australian parents and children expect more from Roblox. They can and must do more to protect kids, and when we meet Ill be asking how they propose to do that. These sorts of harms show why we need a digital duty of care, which will place the onus on digital platforms to proactively keep their users, particularly children, safe. In a statement, Roblox said it was the first large online gaming platform to require facial recognition age checks for all users. Roblox has robust safety policies to help protect users that go beyond many other platforms, and advanced safeguards that monitor for harmful content and communications, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Reviews & adviceTrain journeys This grand old station is the perfect place to begin a train journey Tim Richards February 10, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A The station Budapest Keleti, Budapest, Hungary The journey A grand old station Budapest Keleti. iStockphoto Budapest to Brasov, Romania, aboard the sleeper train Corona; an overnight journey of 15 hours and 20 minutes. Advertisement The departure Sign up for the Traveller newsletter The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now. Among the platform arches. Tim Richards Keleti means eastern in Hungarian, and this station is indeed just east of the inner-city area of Pest, most popular with visitors to the Hungarian capital. It opened in 1884 at the height of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, of which Budapest was the joint capital. As a centrepiece of the empire it was fittingly built in a grand eclectic style with soaring facades and high ceilings, the interior decorated with elaborate frescoes. A surprising decorative element above the main entrance is a pair of statues of George Stephenson and James Watt, two Brits whose inventions were instrumental in the development of the railways. The station is well-connected to the citys public transport and can be reached via Metro lines M2 and M4, trams 23 and 24, and various bus routes. Safety + security Budapest Keleti railway station was built between 1881 and 1884. iStock Advertisement Budapest Keleti is a generally safe space. However there are occasional reports of luggage theft and pickpocketing, so exercise common sense and keep a close eye on your belongings. If you need them, luggage lockers are on the lower level of the station. Food + drink There are several food outlets in and around the station selling baked goods and sandwiches along with hot snacks. Just outside the station to the north-east at Verseny utca 2 is Lakomativ Etterem, a train-themed restaurant serving filling Hungarian dishes. An appealing alternative to these options is the stations Premium Lounge, operated by the national rail company MAV. The lounge is free to enter for holders of a first-class ticket, sleeper ticket or first-class Eurail pass, from two hours before departure. If lacking these credentials, you can simply buy a two-hour lounge pass at the door for 2990 Hungarian forints ($13.50). Its a good deal: as well as offering a calm, relaxing space with comfortable seating, lounge access includes complimentary hot sandwiches, snacks and soft drinks. Premium Lounge fare. Tim Richards Advertisement Retail therapy Theres minimal shopping available within the station beyond its food outlets. However, the Arena Mall lies a 10-minute walk east of the station along Kerepesi ut, with an array of shops including fashion outlets. Theres also a private luggage storage business within the mall. Passing time Sit for a spell and take in the history. Tim Richards As Budapest Keleti is connected to the citys Metro network, its easy to do some sightseeing if you have time to kill before your train. Pop your luggage into a station locker then take an M2 Metro train seven minutes west to Kossuth Lajos ter station. From there its a short walk to admire the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building and the view across the River Danube. If you have time to spare, you could return to Keleti by catching the 23 tram it provides river views as it heads south along the Danube, before turning inland to the station (a 30-minute ride). Advertisement Boarding Grand interiors. Tim Richards A large multicoloured digital destination board hangs above the central concourse, providing updated information about platforms and departure times in Hungarian, English and German. There are smaller digital screens at individual platforms. Note that the station has relatively low platforms, requiring some climbing up into trains. If you need assistance with accessibility or other issues, the customer service centre is on the stations lower level. The verdict Related Article Train journeys I travelled across the breadth of Europe on trains over six weeks Advertisement Budapest Keleti is an impressive survivor from the golden age of rail, and has been suitably updated and modernised for 21st-century travel. Its a great place from which to set out on a European train adventure. Our rating out of five The writer travelled courtesy of Eurail and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share License this article More: Train journeys Hungary Europe Budapest Tim Richards fell into travel writing after living and teaching in Egypt and Poland. Hes a light packing obsessive, and is especially drawn to the former communist countries of Central and Eastern Europe. Follow him on Instagram @aerohaveno Advertisement Updated WorldAsiaChina relations Effectively a death sentence: No mercy for Hong Kong media tycoon James Pomfret and Jessie Pang Updated February 10, 2026 4:54am ,first published 3:29pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Hong Kong: Hong Kongs most prominent media tycoon, Jimmy Lai, was sentenced on Monday to a total of 20 years in jail on national security charges, comprising two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one of publishing seditious materials. The sentence ends a legal saga spanning almost five years and Hong Kongs most high-profile national security hearing. Lai, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was arrested in August 2020 and convicted last year. Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was first arrested in August 2020 and convicted last year. AP Lais sentence of 20 years was within the most severe penalty band of 10 years to life imprisonment for offences of a grave nature. The Hong Kong court said Lais sentence was enhanced by the fact that he was mastermind and driving force behind foreign collusion conspiracies. Advertisement The 78-year-old, a British citizen, has denied all the charges against him, saying in court he is a political prisoner facing persecution from Beijing. Related Article Exclusive China relations Why four Australian judges have become a hot topic spoken about in hushed tones in Hong Kong Lais plight has been criticised by global leaders including US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, spotlighting a years-long national security crackdown in the China-ruled Asian financial hub, following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. The rule of law has been completely shattered in Hong Kong. Todays egregious decision is the final nail in the coffin for freedom of the press in Hong Kong, said Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalism. The international community must step up its pressure to free Jimmy Lai if we want press freedom to be respected anywhere in the world. Advertisement Taiwans government on Monday condemned the harsh sentence handed out to Lai and called for his release. Jimmy Lais harsh sentence under Hong Kongs National Security Law not only deprives him of his personal liberty and tramples on freedom of speech and press freedom, but also denies the peoples basic right to hold those in power accountable, Taiwans China-policymaking Mainland Affairs Council said in a statement. Lai arrived at court in a white jacket, with hands held together in a praying gesture as he smiled and waved at supporters. The case has sparked calls for the long-standing critic of the Chinese Communist Party who friends and supporters say is in frail health to be freed. The harsh 20-year sentence against 78-year-old Jimmy Lai is effectively a death sentence, said Elaine Pearson, Asia Director of Human Rights Watch. A sentence of this magnitude is both cruel and profoundly unjust. Advertisement Dozens of Lais supporters queued for several days to secure a spot in the courtroom, with scores of police officers, sniffer dogs and police vehicles, including an armoured truck and a bomb disposal van, deployed around the area. Related Article Analysis China relations China shut down a newspaper, then a city sold out of a million copies I feel that Mr Lai is the conscience of Hong Kong, said a man named Sum, 64, who was in the queue. He speaks up for Hong Kong people, and even for many wrongful cases in mainland China and for the development of democracy. So I feel that spending a few days of my own freedom sleeping out here is better than seeing him locked up inside. Starmer raised the case of Lai, who holds British citizenship, in detail during a tete-a-tete with Chinese leader Xi Jinping last month in Beijings Great Hall of the People, according to people briefed on the discussions. Britains National Security Adviser, Jonathan Powell, and Chinas Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, were also present. Advertisement I raised the case of Jimmy Lai and called for his release, Starmer told the UK parliament after his trip. Trump too, raised Lais case with Xi during a meeting last October. But Lais son, Sebastien, said it had been a mistake for Starmer to visit China without first demanding that his father be released from jail. Sebastien Lai, son of Jimmy Lai, in London on Monday. AP Much more needs to be done and quickly because, if not, hes going to pass away in prison, Sebastien Lai said. Lais family, lawyer, supporters and former colleagues have warned that he could die in prison as he suffers from health conditions including heart palpitations and high blood pressure. Advertisement Several Western diplomats said negotiations to free Jimmy Lai would probably begin in earnest now that he had been sentenced and would depend on whether Lai appealed. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday (Washington time) that Lais sentencing was an unjust and tragic conclusion to the case and urged authorities to grant him humanitarian parole. A woman holds posters with slogans outside the West Kowloon Court following a sentencing hearing for former media mogul Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong. Bloomberg Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand also urged Lais immediate release on humanitarian grounds. Besides Lai, six former senior Apple Daily staffers, an activist and a paralegal were sentenced to jail terms ranging between six and 10 years. Advertisement Jimmy Lais trial has been nothing but a charade from the start and shows total contempt for Hong Kong laws that are supposed to protect press freedom, said the Committee to Protect Journalists Asia-Pacific director Beh Lih Yi. Beijing has said Lai received a fair trial and all were treated equally under the national security law that had restored order to the city. Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. I t is a mere coincidence that right after a book making the argument for the United States (US) global hegemony was under review, the one under consideration could have very well been titled The Case against American Power. Except that Vikram Sood, a former chief of the Research & Analysis Wing who served for over three decades as an intelligence officer, offers a vital perspective on what a shifting world order means for Indian interests in his new book, Great Power Games: From Western Decline to Eastern Ascent. Sood, the author of books such as The Unending Game and The Ultimate Goal, makes it clear in the introduction that this is an ambitious work: the 10 chapters offer a sweeping history of much that has transpired not just in the past century but even in ancient times. Speaking of the present, he writes, Chaos is the defining characteristic of our age. That is true, given we live in a world where the president of the worlds most powerful country is mercurial and does not seem to care too much about upholding a rules-based international order. The opening chapter deals with the idea of power, and how money plays a central role in determining who controls the world. The author argues how the Wests pre-eminence, be it the European colonial powers of yore or the US juggernaut post-World War II, is based on lofty but hollow claims of morality: it is all about managing the narrative. He then lays bare how American businesses since the Gilded Age have used their wealth to determine the arc of history (which, unlike what Martin Luther King Jr believed, does not necessarily bend towards justice). Be it the likes of robber barons such as John D Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie during the Gilded Age, the Horsemen of banking and oil (a list that includes the Rothschild family, J P Morgan, and companies such as ExxonMobil and British Petroleum, among others), or modern corporations such as BlackRock and Vanguard, the author contends that they have all attempted to fundamentally reshape global finance with one objective: to multiply their own profits. The collateral damage? Numerous wars waged, democratically elected regimes overturned, and millions killed all at the altar of furthering US interests. The next chapter, dedicated primarily to the covert (and overt) operations of the US Central Intelligence Agency, is a surprisingly short one given the authors background in spycraft. He posits that the US used nonprofits such as the National Endowment for Democracy and the USAID, both initially established during the Cold War to counter communist influence, to destabilise governments it deemed unfriendly while pretending to be the good guys. Also Read The Oak And The Larch: Russian history through a prism of woods and trees One chapter, aptly titled Philanthropy for Profit, dedicates significant space to examining the somewhat dodgy side of the tech billionaire and Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates. He traces Gates brand of philanthrocapitalism to the likes of Rockefeller and Carnegie, both of whom engaged in some form of wealth redistribution towards the fag end of their lives after spending years epitomising ruthless capitalism. But, as Sood rightly points out, there is a marked difference in their modus operandi: while the philanthropy of the 19th-century elites was not an instrument for earning more wealth, the new-age billionaires look upon this as a means both for creating wealth and acquiring control. The author then goes on to extensively list Gates alleged misdemeanours, such as exercising control over the supply chain of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, or orchestrating the dismantling of Africas traditional farming systems, only for agricultural behemoths to step in. The chapter on the US decline comes across as a counterargument to the proponents of American exceptionalism: that the American people were the chosen ones, primed to take on the mantle of global leadership. Sood looks at the Cold Wars long shadow and highlights the dark episodes of the US interventionist history with aplomb. In its quest for a new world order following the fall of the Soviet Union, the US got entangled in forever wars that yielded mixed results for its security interests but further enriched its already sprawling defence-industrial complex. All this has meant that other major conundrums climate crisis-induced threats; endless turmoil in parts of Europe, West Asia, and Africa; Chinas rise as a superpower do not get the same attention they ought to from it. Add to this the unpredictability induced by US President Donald Trumps actions and words, and one is staring at the possibility of an unprecedented global upheaval. A few chapters are dedicated to the challenges posed by Russia and China to the US dominance. For the current situation in Ukraine, Sood squarely lays the blame on the expansion of the US-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization in parts of Eastern Europe (once the Soviet Unions sphere of influence) and especially Georgia and Ukraine, terming it a provocation that Russian President Vladimir Putin would have never taken lying down. He also criticises the US tendency to overestimate its own abilities while underestimating its adversarys, which explains Russias gains in an attritional war. Coming to China, the author shows how like in the case of Russia the US inability (or downright refusal) to understand how the Chinese political system (that is, the Communist Party of China) led to the misplaced hope that free market capitalism would introduce democracy and liberalism. But China used the tools of American technology and soft power to its advantage, and Trumps mention of the idea of a G2 last year only confirmed Chinas global stature. Hide your strength, bide your time is what former Chinese premier Deng Xiaoping famously said, and this is what played out on the global stage: a rising power induced complacency in the old hegemon until the right moment to strike arrived. The final two chapters focus on Indias challenges in a volatile geopolitical landscape and how it must be pragmatic in finding its place therein. While the threat posed by the usual suspects (Pakistan and China) is nothing new, it is when Sood turns his gaze inward that the book drops its veneer of objectivity altogether. Be it blaming Western media narratives for attempting to destabilise the current government in power or effectively branding those protesting against megaprojects (such as the Sardar Sarovar Dam) or against controversial legislation (the Citizenship Amendment Act of 2019) as fifth columnists, Sood comes across as partisan. By choosing not to exercise any of the critical thinking that pervades the previous chapters and exhibiting a willingness to believe state-backed narratives, the author does a great disservice to his own work. One specific point regarding the choice of sources: there are ample grounds on which Bill Gates could be criticised, but quoting a vaccine denier (the author mentions Robert F Kennedy Jr, now US Secretary of Health) does not exactly lend credibility. Also, publishers ought to reconsider a practice they are increasingly adopting to save on printing costs: omitting the endnotes section and putting a QR code instead that redirects the reader to a PDF document. Its mere presence does wonders for transparency and indicates that the author is willing to subject their argument to scrutiny. Despite its shortcomings, Vikram Soods Great Power Games makes for interesting reading for students of Indias foreign policy and geostrategy. For India, the message is clear: it must seek its place at the table on its own even as the two superpowers battle it out for global supremacy, for (to quote Carl Sagan) there is no hint that help will come from elsewhere. T he India-United States nuclear deal, based on the July 18, 2005, joint statement by then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President George W Bush, was one of the most intensely debated public policy issues in the history of independent India. The deal facilitated a quid pro quo wherein the US committed to facilitate Indias access to global nuclear commerce in return for Indias commitment to separate its civilian nuclear facilities from the strategic ones and place the former under the relevant safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), besides also contributing to global non-proliferation efforts. Following the passage of the deal in the US Congress in September 2008, India was granted a country-specific waiver at the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) from its Warsaw Guidelines of 1992, which entailed only state parties to the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to engage in or gain access to global nuclear trade. Subsequently, India and the US agreed on the 123 Agreement, which finalised the finer aspects of civil nuclear cooperation, including reprocessing rights, fuel supply assurances, strategic fuel reserve, and the procedures to be followed in the event of its termination. Interestingly, after the NSG waiver, a handful of supplier nations, including France, Russia, and Kazakhstan, signed nuclear cooperation agreements with India even before the US did, exemplifying the enthusiasm to exploit a burgeoning nuclear energy market which could cater to then what was the worlds second largest population, and soon to be the largest, along with one of the fastest growing economies. Over the years, even nay-sayers and fence sitters who opposed the India-specific waiver at the NSG also ended up signing nuclear cooperation agreements with India. The highlight of such agreements was the access to the largest uranium depositories in Australia, Canada, and Kazakhstan, among others, and the flurry of deals that India concluded with African countries rich in yellow cake deposits. But the real promise of the nuclear deal, besides its strategic spinoffs, was of initiating a sweeping expansion of the nuclear energy sector. This entailed building new nuclear power plants with foreign support and enabled a rapid progress towards the declared target of 10,000 megawatt (MW) power production capacity, and beyond. Even as the Indian atomic energy establishment continued to vouch for its indigenous pressurised heavy water reactor (PHWR) base and the fast breeder reactor (FBR)-based second stage, the highlight of the nuclear agreements with major supplier states was the promise of new nuclear plants to be set up across India. At least six such projects were announced in the agreements that came in the first wave after the NSG waiver. Also Read Govt could order more indigenous reactors to boost nuclear capacity While the French company Areva intended to construct the world's largest nuclear power plant in Jaitapur (Maharashtra) with six 1,730 MW-reactors producing a capacity of more than 9,000 MW, the other projects have targets of 2,300-6,000 MW capacities. Even the addition of single reactors in the 500-1,700 MW range in some of these plants in a period of 10-15 years was expected to considerably enhance Indias nuclear power output, especially when accounted with the four units set up by Russia in Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu. But protests soon started against some of the projects on issues of land acquisition and displacement of population. As of late 2025, only the project in Haryanas Gorakhpur is progressing, whereas both the Indian and French governments have asserted that the Jaitapur project is well on track. According to a statement given in Parliament, the Jaitapur project is slated to set up a capacity totalling 10,380 MW, accounting for 10 per cent of Indias 100 GW nuclear energy target by 2047. Achieving the 100 gigawatt (GW) target has been the guiding mantra for Indias nuclear energy programme since the culmination of the nuclear deal. Yet, fulfilling the existing target of 10,000 MW, revised from the 20,000 MW originally conceived during the Homi Bhabha years, was one of the key stimulants behind the Manmohan Singh governments decision to harness the scope for new nuclear power plants with participation of foreign suppliers. An important factor that weighed in this planning was the reality of the second stage not attaining fruition as expected, nor the thorium cycle showing visible signs of technological feasibility in the near future. The mission to transition to the second stage of Indias three-stage programme has been lingering with unfulfilled and shifting timelines. The target of 100 GW 20 years from now seems a long shot even with a major policy stimulus, unless the Indian nuclear energy sector witnesses a dramatic technological leap: namely, the swift progress towards the third stage of the three-stage indigenous nuclear energy development programme and expansive modular reactor imprint across the country, as also the rapid deployment of the foreign-supplied nuclear reactors. However, the progress towards these goalposts would need an enabling environment, which is what the Narendra Modi-led government seemingly intends to achieve with the Shanti (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Act, 2025. Whether its objectives could be achieved would not only depend on the fine print but also whether the envisaged route map including the opening up of the sector to private players, and dilution of liability provisions to allure the suppliers, both domestic and foreign will realistically complement and buttress the technological trajectory, which includes the envisaged vision of the three-stage programme. The contours of the Act The Shanti Act is presented as an umbrella legislation that subsumes the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and its 1987 amendment, the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) of 2010, and also the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Rules, 2011. The preamble of the Shanti Act states its purpose as: to provide for the promotion and development of nuclear energy and ionising radiation for nuclear power generation, application in healthcare, food, water, agriculture, industry, research, environment, innovation in nuclear science and technology, for the welfare of the people of India, and for robust regulatory framework for its safe and secure utilisation and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Referring to the closed fuel cycle and the three-stage programme, the Act talks about full exploitation of Indias abundant thorium reserves and speedy development for large scale thorium utilisation as requiring strong institutional foundations for research, development and usage of next generation technologies. Having incorporated all the existing legislations and rules into a single framework, the Act also discards a long-held terminology in international nuclear communication of peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Instead, it talks about India being committed to expand the application and deployment of nuclear science and technology to enhance nuclear energy share of the total energy mix in a responsible way. Also, a revised set of definitions reflects the incorporation of existing legislation and fills the gaps in the previous legislation. Although it retains almost all provisions from the CLNDA on the definition of nuclear damage, the Shanti Act directly defines it as any injury, loss or damage caused by a nuclear incident, before going on to explain the nature of damages and the causal factors that could lead to nuclear damage(s). The definition of nuclear incident in the Shanti Act remains unchanged, other than an addition of despite all reasonable measures taken to prevent or mitigate the damage as opposed to with respect to preventive measures in the CLNDA. The notable change in the Shanti Act is the definition of operator to reflect the opening up of the sector, as well as additions like safeguards, safety, and spent fuel, which were not defined in the Atomic Energy Act or the CLNDA. While the CLNDA defined operator as the Central Government or any authority or corporation established by it or a Government company who has been granted a licence pursuant to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (33 of 1962) for the operation of that installation, the Shanti Act defined operator as the person who has been granted a licence under this Act for the purpose of operating the nuclear installation. While defining safeguards as a set of measures necessary to ensure that source material and fissile material are controlled and accounted for, the Shanti Act not only omits any reference to the IAEA Safeguards agreements, but also instructs that the source material and fissile material in any form, produced within India or imported, shall remain under the surveillance and control of the Central Government for the purposes of accounting, and shall be subject to such safeguards as may be specified by the Central Government. Having subscribed to an improvised version of Information Circular-66 type safeguards through the 2007 agreement with the IAEA, the Indian government has, through the Shanti Act, reserved the right to determine the safeguards that could possibly be applied in the new projects. While adopting Comprehensive (or Full-Scope) Safeguards, as applicable for non-nuclear-weapon states, might not be on the cards, the government might have left the space open on the scope of determining the safeguards framework when it comes to reactors operated by private entities, including in cases where reactors and materials could involve foreign suppliers. The same applies to safety, wherein the Shanti Act incorporates safety authorisation from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board as integral to the licence requirements. Beyond the across-the-board integration of operational, liability, compensation, and safety frameworks, the Shanti Act opens up the sector to private participation, and dilutes the liability framework for suppliers. Both have significant implications for the future of Indias nuclear energy development, as rapid expansion of the sector in order to meet the ambitious goal of 100 GW comes with both opportunities and risks that need to be cushioned with robust legal and policy mechanisms to ensure both productivity and accountability. What are the implications of these two policy shifts? Liberalisation of the industry From the setting up of the DAE and the reorganisation of the Atomic Energy Commission in the 1950s to the promulgation of the Atomic Energy Act in 1962, nuclear energy development was deemed a strategic national mission that was monopolised and under the full control of the Indian government ever since. According to the 1962 Act, which repealed the 1948 Act, the central government has the power to produce, develop, use and dispose of atomic energy either by itself or through any authority or Corporation established by it or a Government company and carry out research into any matters connected therewith. The 1987 amendment also added the provision to manufacture or otherwise produce any prescribed or radioactive substance and any articles which in its opinion are, or are likely to be, required for, or in connection with, the production, development or use of atomic energy or such research as aforesaid and to dispose of such described or radioactive substance or any articles manufactured or otherwise produced. The 1962 Act also vested in the central government the solitary powers to deal with and complete control over all radioactive materials, restrict information pertaining to the nuclear programme, declare prohibited areas, and a whole set of powers pertaining to nuclear minerals, rare earths, production and use of nuclear energy, and so on. The 1987 amendment was a landmark step that was meant to facilitate the establishment of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) as the monopoly, government-owned operator of all civilian nuclear reactors in the country (of which DAE supervised the strategic ones). The amendment changed Section 2 of the 1962 Act by inserting clause bb, which defined Government company as meaning a company in which not less than fifty-one per cent of the paid up share capital is held by the Central Government. A handful of other amendments and insertions were made to provide the legal framework of a government company taking over the function of operator of nuclear reactors. These include insertion of the provision either by itself, or through any authority or corporation established by it or a Government company in Section 3 of the 1962 Act. The other additions included rights to manufacture or produce any prescribed or radioactive substance and any articlesin connection with, the production, development or use of atomic energy...buy, acquire, store and transport radioactive substances and so on, all of which, as per the Act, were powers solely vested in the central government, but then on to be exercised by the government itself or through any authority or corporation established by it, or a Government company. These provisions, which were identified with state monopoly over the nuclear energy sector, have been discarded by the Shanti Act to open up the sector. A key feature introduced is a licensing system to set up any of the facilities or undertakings that are described in Section 3(2) of the Act. So, the extent of nuclear activities extends to all elements of the nuclear fuel cycle with broader participation sought from a cross-section of entities, and not necessarily restricted to the construction and operation of a nuclear power plant or reactor, or supply of materials. But the Shanti Acts radical aspect is opening up the sector to a wide range of entities both government and private to participate in Indias nuclear renaissance. Company under the Shanti Act means the same as in clause 20 of Section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013, but does not include one incorporated outside India. In other words, a foreign company will not be provided a licence under this Act, with even joint ventures restricted to companies and entities that are incorporated in India: private, public, or government-owned. Interestingly, the Act does not make any specific mention of foreign suppliers, notwithstanding that the global nuclear companies had objected to the CLNDAs Right of Recourse (RoR) clause. The only places where the foreign element is recognised by the Act are in the context of liabilities and territorial jurisdiction for nuclear damage claims. For instance, the operator in India is liable for such nuclear material (that) has been unloaded from the means of transport by which it was sent to a person within the territory of a foreign State. Leave alone foreign entities, even the entity or concept of supplier is neither defined nor finds mention in the Shanti Act. This is despite the fact that the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Rules, 2011, had defined supplier. While this omission in the Shanti Act seems to be a conscious one, it raises questions on how the Indian government seeks to bring foreign entities, including suppliers, into the ambit of the Act or Indian law when engaging in nuclear cooperation with Indian operators. This may seem a major lacuna if the government had consciously sought to keep foreign entities beyond the scope of accountability, including through the dilution in the RoR, as also refusing to account for the role and liabilities of foreign entities in the Indian nuclear energy ecosystem. Diluting liability benchmarks The Shanti Act adopts the principles and features of the CLNDA almost entirely but chooses to make some significant omissions, alterations, and additions to address some long-running irritants or obstacles to the pursuit of nuclear cooperation with foreign partners. To understand the changes in the liability benchmarks, we need to revert to the context of the CLNDA and its intricacies. The CLNDA was framed not just to address the need for an appropriate legal framework to establish liability and ensure swift compensation in the event of a nuclear incident, but also to adhere to the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), which required signatory states to legislate a compliant domestic liability law. While many hailed the CLNDA as a progressive piece of legislation with inbuilt best practices, the international supplier community saw it as deviant from the CSC, and the Vienna and Paris conventions. But the government had pointed out that it is not party to the latter two conventions even as it signed the CSC on the basis of the CLNDA. At the root of the discontent was Section 17(b) of the CLNDA, which stipulates one of the conditions of the operator to exercise its RoR against the supplier is if the nuclear incident has resulted as a consequence of an act of supplier or his employee, which includes supply of equipment or material with patent or latent defects or sub-standard services. Also, 17(c) mentions the RoR as applicable if the nuclear incident has resulted from the act of commission or omission of an individual done with the intent to cause nuclear damage. Furthermore, Section 46 stated that this Act is in addition to other domestic laws in force, thereby allowing criminal liability and other tort claims. Unlike the CSC, which allows for a RoR only if it is written in the contract, and if the nuclear incident is a result of an act with intent to cause damage, the CLNDA expanded this interpretation to include patent or latent defects in materials or equipment or sub-standard services. Not only did the major global suppliers reject the claims of any apparent safety benefits that might accrue by holding them liable, but they also expressed their inability to participate in Indias planned nuclear energy expansion under this liability framework. In response, the Indian government limited suppliers liability (to the value of the contract or operators liability) and the time frame (initial license period or product liability period) for exercising the RoR through the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Rules, 2011. But some prominent legal experts had then opined that 24(2) of the 2011 Rules is ultra vires for scaling down the liability limits and timeline and could be inconsistent with Section 6 of the CLNDA. In a December 2014 policy brief for the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, I had contended that Section 6 specifically provides for only increasing the maximum liability amount for compensation or even the operator liability, and so, does not include any provision that could preclude the scope for scaling down the liability amount or timeline for exercising RoR. Accordingly, Section 6 allows the government to review the operators liability from time to time and specify a higher amount, besides taking additional measures to enhance the maximum amount of liability. It was then pointed out that the mandatory clause of writing in contract gives operators the flexibility to frame supplier-friendly contracts, with built-in safeguards to ensure quality control, risk-sharing, or a guarantee time frame from the latter. Similarly, the RoR had limited teeth since the operator must prove the intent to cause damage against a supplier, which should also stand legal scrutiny. The other major balancing factor was the potential for indemnification and insurance. Section 8(1) of the CLNDA mandated operators to take an insurance policy or such other financial security (indemnity or guarantees) to cover their liability. This normally implies that the operator could insure for all aspects of the nuclear project to which it is liable or take suitable financial measures to cushion itself from bankruptcy. Similarly, Article 2(2) of the CSC also required the national law to indemnify any person other than the operator liable to the extent that person is legally liable to provide compensation. While this encourages the contracting party (installation state) to provide for an insurance or a funds pool (Nuclear Liability Fund as suggested in Section 7(2) of the CLNDA), many wanted the indemnification to extend to the suppliers, which had the inherent risk of diminishing accountability and encouraging complacency. Eventually, the Indian and US governments reached an understanding mostly on these lines during the visit of US President Barack Obama to India in January 2015. The Ministry of External Affairs subsequently released a FAQ dossier which clarified that while the RoR is a substantive right to the operator, it was only an enabling provision that permits but does not require an operator to include in the contract or exercise a RoR as a mandatory legal requirement. This flexibility, the FAQ elaborated, is inherent in the contract as the situations identified in Section 17(b) relate to actions and matters such as product liability stipulations/conditions or service contracts(which) are ordinarily part of a contract between the operator and the supplier. It is for the operator and the supplier to agree on the terms of their contract elaborate and specify the extent of their obligations pursuant to warranty and indemnity clauses that are part of such contracts. The dossier stated that the CLNDA ensures the operators liability shall be strict and channelled to them via the regime of no-fault liability. Also mentioned is Section 8(1), which provides that the Operator shall before he begins operation of his nuclear installation, take out insurance policy or such further financial security covering his liability. It also claimed that the CLNDA is broadly in conformity with the CSC and its Annex in terms of channeling the strict/absolute legal liability to the operator, the limitations of the liability in amount and time, liability cover by insurance or financial security, definitions of nuclear installation, damage, etc. Accordingly, the FAQ announced the decision to float the India Nuclear Insurance Pool as a risk transfer mechanism, formed by the general insurer GIC Re and four other public sector units (PSUs), with a corpus of 750 crore out of a total of 1,500 crore. The government was to contribute the balance capacity on a tapering basis. The Pool, the dossier said, will ensure that operators and suppliers will see each other as partners managing a risk together, instead of potential litigating adversaries. Abandoning CLNDA principles While retaining some of these arrangements, the Shanti Act has largely abandoned the broad principles that guided the CLNDA and this understanding of January 2015. The Act completely jettisons Section 17(b) of the CLNDA. Instead, in Section 16, the Shanti Act carries the other two provisions, which completely reflects the CSCs RoR clause. This action comes as a surprise, as it was the Modi government that stood by the CLNDA while reaching a broad understanding with the US government in January 2015. That the Modi government has discarded without seeking public opinion or a national debate a key provision that was seen as an industry best practice following the 2011 Fukushima disaster, is equally surprising. The Shanti Act seems to have abandoned the India Nuclear Insurance Pool altogether without any indication of the corpus announced in the FAQ or the resources spent by the insurance PSUs. Instead, Section 15 instructs the operator to, before operation of nuclear installation, obtain an insurance policy or such other financial security or combination of both, covering the liability, and renew the policy or financial security from time to time. This clause will not apply to a nuclear installation owned by the central government, implying it will apply to all other entities, including potential installations set up by state governments. In place of the Pool, the Shanti Act provides for the setting up of the Nuclear Liability Fund to meet the central governments liability under the Bill. However, unlike the CLNDA, where the government, through the 2011 Rules, took responsibility for compensation beyond the operators liability, fixed at 1,500 crore, the Shanti Act leaves the role of the government open-ended for multiple contingencies. Accordingly, Section 14 makes it clear that as the actual liability in the event of nuclear incident would depend on the magnitude of the incident, it is difficult to estimate the cost of liability at this stage. Echoing the CLNDA, Section 14 of the Shanti Act lists the central governments liability in respect of a nuclear incident as including (a) where the amount exceeds the liability of an operator, (b) occurring in a nuclear installation owned by the government, (c) or an incident as a result of force majeure. In its Second Schedule, the Shanti Act lists the amount of liability for the operator, which, incidentally, is a revised set to reflect the time elapsed since the CLNDAs promulgation and also adding newer classification. While the CLNDA had fixed the operators liability at 1,500 crore for an installation of 10 MW or above, the Shanti Act incorporates five categories with higher liability costs: 3,600 MW and above (3,000 crore); 1,500-3,600 MW (1,500 crore); 750-1,500 MW (750 crore); 150-750 MW (300 crore); and below 140 MW and other fuel cycle facilities other than spent fuel reprocessing and transport of nuclear materials at 100 crore. Like in the case of foreign suppliers being absent in its fine print, the Shanti Act also makes no reference to small modular reactors (SMRs), the FBRs, or the advanced heavy water reactor (AHWR), which will form the core of the third-stage of the indigenous programme. This emerges as a major lacuna as the Shanti Act is deemed to have superseded the Atomic Energy Act and the CLNDA, which are described as being repealed in Section 91. Accordingly, there will be major operational, legal, and policy shortcomings as India progresses towards the second-stage with FBRs deployed in greater numbers, and seeks to harness the potential of new-generation technologies, including the SMRs. 1 / 5 Congolese soldiers guard a military vehicle in Muadiamvita, North Kivu, in February 2025 (Photo: Reuters) At the beginning of 2026, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) used attack drones to bomb militia sites near Minembwe in the South Kivu province, in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). They were repelling a military offensive by the March 23 Movement (M23), a group of Rwanda-backed rebels, that began in December 2025. Although the M23 claimed to withdraw from Uvira following a United States-brokered peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda in late 2025, heavy fighting persists. After over 30 years of armed conflict and violence in the DR Congo, the military situation remains volatile. Mobilisation for the war effort continues, with the DRC government formalising the Support and Development Fund for the armed forces in December 2025. The conflict features modern and advanced technologies owing to a significant shift towards aerial power and electronic warfare, including FARDCs use of Chinese-made combat drones, anti-aircraft systems, and unmanned vehicles. Also, many militias are primarily using Soviet-era weapons and an illicit arsenal flowing from regional players, such as heavy artillery, armoured vehicles and tanks, and small arms. The lead picture spotlights the FARDCs Kamaz-53949 Typhoon-K, a Russian-developed mine-resistant ambush-protected armoured vehicle, in the North Kivu province in 2025. I ndia has watched with mounting alarm as China has expanded its military infrastructure along the borders, surging since the Doklam standoff in 2017. The challenge before the Indian Army was how to build protective structures in some of the most remote, inaccessible and inhospitable parts of the country. And to do this quickly. In high altitude settings, with poor connectivity and extreme weather, even basic construction becomes a challenge. Moving men and material around adds another layer of difficulty. The answer was simple: 3D printing. In April last year, the Indian Army built the worlds highest 3D-printed military bunker in Leh at 11,000 feet, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) and Mumbai-based startup Simpliforge Creations under the Project PRABAL (Portable Robotic Printer for Printing Bunkers and Ancillaries). It then followed it up with a 3D-printed structure in December last year in Sikkim. The bunker in Leh was built on site using a robotic arm and completed in five days, with the total printing time being only 14 hours. Also Read 3D-printed military structures dot the Himalayas The conventional way of construction in such terrain is slow and labour-intensive, requiring material to be transported over difficult routes and personnel working in low-oxygen conditions. Whereas 3D printing addresses the operational challenge to quickly build durable, protective infrastructure in forward areas where terrain, climate and logistics severely constrain construction. PRABAL shows how additive manufacturing 3D printing can change the construction of shelters, bunkers and underground facilities across high altitude-low oxygen (HALO) conditions. On-site construction using portable robotic printers and locally sourced materials reduces timelines, eases logistical dependence on long supply chains and limits human exposure in extreme terrain. Concrete construction, the way it is done today, is very slow, said Professor K V L Subramaniam, department of civil engineering, IITH. Traditional construction also limits structural efficiency because it forces engineers into simple rectangular designs rather than free-form structures. We are always stuck with producing rectilinear shapes. Rectangular shapes are not the most efficient shapes structurally, he said, noting that these forms are used largely because they are easier to cast with conventional shuttering. With 3D printing, robots fabricate the structure in real time without using formwork. It uses less material and still delivers a structure that performs far better than a conventional one, Subramaniam said, adding that it helps to reduce the weight without affecting performance. Under PRABAL, the army deliberately set difficult conditions to test the technology. The army wanted us to prove two things: first, we could print protective structures using indigenous technology, and second, that we could use only local materials. Indian Army personnel assembling the 3D-printed structure (Photo: Indian Army) Under PRABAL, the army deliberately set difficult conditions to test the technology. The army wanted us to prove two things: first, we could print protective structures using indigenous technology, and second, that we could use only local materials. Need for sustainability The conventional construction methods were not sustainable in forward areas. Existing structures depended heavily on materials transported from distant locations, creating logistical challenges and increasing environmental costs in sensitive regions. On-site construction using locally available materials, rather than relying on off-site prefabrication and long supply chains was the only option for such heights, while also reducing the logistical dependence and ensuring that protective infrastructure could be deployed quickly and responsibly in challenging terrain. Project Prabal is structured around four broad pillars: the development of a deployable robotic printing system, terrain-specific material design, location-based construction strategies, including concealment and overall sustainability of the system across operational environments. The project was driven less by novelty than by necessity. CEO and founder of Mumbai-based Simpliforge Creations, Dhruv Gandhi, explained that the armys decision to back additive manufacturing was driven not just by innovation, but by economics and construction time. 3D printing is going to be cheaper than conventional construction, Gandhi said, pointing out that even where upfront costs are higher, lifecycle economics tilt the balance. If you look at cost over a 10-year horizon, 3D printing consistently turns out to be the cheapest option, driven by lower maintenance and energy consumption. 3D printing is nearly ten times faster than conventional construction, he said, noting that robotic systems can print up to six metres a day. Time savings are an even bigger strategic advantage, particularly in high-altitude areas where construction seasons are short. According to various media sources, the armed forces selected a robotic-arm-based printing system, owing to its flexibility and design freedom at high altitudes. It was a strategic choice, as it helped to scale the technology from bunkers to underground structures across varied terrains. A blend of local sand, cement, water and additives went into the concrete mix. In cold and dry climates, accelerators are added in the mix to set fast enough to hold their shape; in wet and humid regions, retarders extend working time and prevent premature stiffening, with exact proportions adjusted based on terrain samples and lab tests. Prof. Subramaniam, speaking about the design of these bunkers, observed, An eggshell is one of the strongest shapes in nature. We borrow from nature. By using shell-like geometries, the printed concrete remains largely in compression rather than bending, significantly reducing the need for steel reinforcement. This design-led approach is strategic because protection is determined not by material alone but by geometry and threat-specific engineering. Strategic necessity Not every printed structure is blast-resistant by default. Blast resistance is a design choice, Subramaniam noted. Each bunker is designed to address specific threat profiles and weapon systems, which can be modified if the threat changes. This technology allows us to deliver lighter, stronger, and more protective structures with minimal human intervention in places where conventional construction simply cannot work. He said the bunkers performance was rooted in its geometry rather than sheer mass. The bunker is a functionally designed structure. The outer shell looks like a wrinkled piece of paper, and that is deliberate. The non-planar surface improves ballistic and blast resistance by disrupting impact behaviour. Ricochet is deadly. The wrinkled surface arrests bullets instead of deflecting them, he said. Such designs are difficult, if not impossible, to achieve using conventional construction methods. A robotic arm moves to make layers, helping to achieve significant reductions in material usage compared to conventional construction, without affecting performance. The engineering approach adapts to terrain: in cold conditions where hydration is low, accelerators are added to reduce setting time. Whereas, in deserts, retarders are added in the concrete mix to prevent rapid moisture loss to maintain workability and strength. Subramaniam added that theres no single concrete mix for different environments. A desert deployment requires a different mix than Ladakh or Sikkim. The team conditions materials to handle extreme cold, heat, low oxygen and rapid drying, while also accounting for changes in pumpability at altitude. This is where machines offer a decisive advantage. It is better to expose machines to extreme conditions than human beings, he said. Gandhi said that beyond scale, thermal insulation is one of the most significant advantages of 3D-printed bunkers. Earlier bunkers lost heat rapidly, even with heating systems, he said. Conventional fibre- or panel-based shelters lose heat quickly, even when heaters are running. In contrast, monolithic 3D-printed concrete structures retain heat. Even when outside temperatures fall to minus 40 to 50 degrees Celsius, we can maintain an internal temperature difference of 10 to 20 degrees, Gandhi stated, significantly reducing fuel consumption and improving living conditions at forward posts. Concealment is another factor. Post-Op Sindoor (against Pakistan), the army realised that emerging threats require soldiers to go underground, even if temporarily, Subramaniam said. From the top, you would not even know a structure exists. The increasing use of drones and aerial threats in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia has prompted countries to look for quick and easy-to-deploy solutions worldwide to help the troops on the ground, with technologies such as 3D printing emerging as a solution. The structure is designed to take on emerging threats and provide shelters for troops. It was deployed by the Armys Trishakti Corps in Sikkim - at an altitude higher than Leh where it was validated for operational use. The Army tested 3D-printed structures with live ballistic trials, confirming their structural strength, durability and protective performance in real-world combat scenarios. Following this success, the project was expanded across the northern and western borders, scaling from small protective structures for troops to broader protective infrastructure supporting different assets in diverse operational environments. Along the Line of Actual Control, Chinese military infrastructure has expanded rapidly with hardened shelters, underground facilities and high-altitude logistics nodes compressing response timelines. The situation signifies the need for protection that can be deployed quickly. Gandhi said that the Indian armed forces have often been early adopters of new technologies, adding that PRABAL has already positioned India ahead globally in terms of 3D printing adoption. Even the US Army uses concrete 3D printing, but they have not attempted high-altitude robotic-arm printing the way India has. As production volumes rise, Gandhi said daily output could scale from six metres (m) to nearly 20 m, allowing the technology to be deployed across multiple sectors of border infrastructure in the coming years. Gandhi stressed that the technology can be extended to roads, permanent bridges, helipads and crash barriers. Crash barriers can be built for kilometres to ensure safety infrastructure far faster than conventional methods, with minimal reinforcement and logistics. PRABAL signals a shift in how the Indian armed forces approach force protection in contested and high-altitude areas by integrating robotics and terrain-specific material. The army has moved additive manufacturing beyond experimentation into deployable military infrastructure. The emphasis is no longer just on building faster, but on building smart and lighter structures, reduced logistics dependence and minimal human exposure. T he Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully fired two Pralay quasi-ballistic missiles in quick succession from the same launcher off the Odisha coast as part of user evaluation trials for the armed forces in December 2025. Pralay, named after the Sanskrit word pralaya (meaning apocalypse), is a short-range, surface-to-surface missile developed by the DRDO. It has a range of 150 to 500 kilometres (km), and is equipped with an advanced navigation and guidance system to target high-value enemy targets across the border with accuracy. It can carry a payload of 500 to 1,000 kilograms and is powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor. Unlike other ballistic missiles with suborbital trajectories, Pralay follows a depressed trajectory, reducing detection time and making it harder for enemy radars and missile defences to track and intercept it. It can reach hypersonic speed up to Mach 6 six times the speed of sound and execute evasive manoeuvres. It has an inertial navigation system (independent sensors to calculate position, velocity, and orientation), GPS, and Navigation with Indian Constellation, using satellite signals to enhance accuracy and providing guidance in all-weather conditions. It is expected to strike within 10 metres of its intended target. Pralay addresses a critical operational gap in Indias missile arsenal by bridging the space between short-range rocket systems like Pinaka and Smerch, the BrahMos cruise missile, and the strategic, nuclear-capable Agni series, said Major General Rajan Kochhar (retired). Kochhar said that effective force planning requires matching weapons to specific ranges and missions, noting that expending high-end strategic missiles on limited targets is neither economical nor operationally sound. In warfare, you cannot fritter away a higher-end missile on a shorter-range target. You need a layered approach, where each system is optimised for a specific range and mission. He added that a depressed and non-parabolic trajectory of the missile complicates enemy radar tracking and interception and compresses the enemys decision-making cycle, as its high speed enables striking of targets within a narrow 90 to 180-second window. According to Kochhar, Pralay was ideally suited for counterforce strikes against enemy missile launch sites, airbases, radar installations, logistics hubs, ammunition depots, and dumps, since such high-value military targets typically fall within the 150200 km engagement range. He said that it also offered a precision strike option to suppress enemy air defences, such as Pakistans HQ-9 or HQ-7 radar systems. O peration Sindoor remains ongoing. In his annual press conference on January 13, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reaffirmed that hostilities with Pakistan will continue for the foreseeable future. This has been a message that has been continuously reiterated by Indias top leadership ever since the two sides clashed in May last year following a terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. The clash featured a mix of Indian BrahMos and SCALP missiles, as well as Pakistani Fatah-1 and 2 missiles. India also relied extensively on the use of drones and high-range precision strikes deep in Pakistan. This brief but intense confrontation marked a shift in the way India and Pakistan employ conventional military force against each other. It was the first instance of a no contact clash and a direct drone-versus-drone battle between two nuclear-armed nations. Since then, both sides have increased their arms production, modernisation, and acquisitions. This is reflected in the growing investments being made in multilayered air defence systems, electronic warfare, and counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) capabilities, which suggests that future wars will be contactless. Also Read Not mediating Pakistan's ties with India, Afghanistan, says Russia Its only been a few months since the May conflict, but early indications are that it has clearly shaped Indias military modernisation priorities, Arzan Tarapore, senior fellow at Stanford University, said. As a part of a broader defence acquisition push in 2025, Indias Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared procurement proposals worth around 79,000 crore in a single tranche, covering air defence missiles and combat and loitering drones. Special emphasis has been placed on air defences like S-400 that proved crucial during Operation Sindoor. India seeks to acquire 280 additional S-400 missiles from Russia with an emphasis on local assembly for faster deployment. Air defences received symbolic impetus from the Prime Ministers imprimatur too when he announced the Sudarshan Chakra air defence initiative on Independence Day last year. Sudarshan Chakra is poised to be Indias ambitious multilayered, integrated air and missile defence system similar to Israels Iron Dome or the US proposed Golden Dome. Certainly, air defences to cater for incoming drones and missiles will have to be the focus, Manpreet Sethi, distinguished fellow, Centre for Air Power and Strategic Studies, said. India's willingness to employ conventional force has been enabled by the acquisition of such capabilities, and this has made Pakistan realise that it will have to pay a cost for acts of cross-border terrorism, she added. Missile defence has regained significant impetus post Operation Sindoor. India tested the Agni Prime missile from a rail-based launcher in September last year. While ballistic missiles such as the Pralay have been tested in a salvo launch from a single mobile launcher at Chandipur, Odisha, in December 2025. BrahMos missile, which was a big success during Operation Sindoor, has regained interest from foreign buyers like Vietnam and Indonesia and could be part of a deal worth around 4,000 crore. Israeli drones were also widely used by India during the operation and have received renewed attention. India has also signed up for additional purchases of satellite-connected Heron MK II UAVs under emergency provisions in late 2025, involving all services for the first time. Discussions are underway with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to manufacture these systems in India in partnership with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and private firms such as Elcom, with an indigenisation target of at least 60 per cent. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is now pitching for speedy development and induction of indigenous solutions such as the Nagastra and Sky Striker, which are being codeveloped with Israels Elbit Systems. Another collaboration between IAI and Indias Ministry of Defence is theProject Cheetah, which involves equipping old Heron drones with Spike non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles by leveraging the technical expertise of IAI. Air power continues to receive renewed attention in 2026, with the Defence Procurement Board clearing the acquisition of 114 additional Rafale fighter jets last month, in one of the largest single combat-aircraft approvals in the IAFs history. In parallel with procurement decisions, India is moving to ease foreign direct investment (FDI) rules in its defence sector to attract global capital and technology. Plans to increase FDI caps and relax ownership requirements are aimed at partnerships with major aerospace and defence firms like Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Dassault Aviation. In the maritime domain, India moved to institutionalise the forward deterrent posture it adopted during Operation Sindoor by accelerating investments in anti-submarine warfare, long-range maritime strike and persistent surveillance across the northern Arabian Sea. In August last year, the DAC approved procurements worth about 67,000 crore, which included upgrades for naval modernisation. One of the key initiatives in this has been the induction of twin BrahMos supersonic cruise missile launchers on destroyers such as INS Veer. India has also signed deals for the acquisition of P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and MH-60R helicopters. Indias defence exports have risen sharply, helped by the fact that several systems were seen as combat-proven during the confrontation. Apart from BrahMos, India has exported Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers to Armenia. Pinakas performance during Sindoor gave it credibility, and Armenia became one of the first buyers after the conflict.The Akash surface-to-air missile system has also attracted interest. The Philippines is said to be in an advanced stage of negotiation with Indian suppliers. The total defence exports from India stood at the highest ever figure of 21,000 crore in the financial year 2025. In 2026, it is expected that defence exports will touch between 25,000 crore and 30,000 crore, with key markets placed in Southeast Asia, Africa, and West Asia. A selective race While it is usual for two sides to replenish supplies after a clash, the May conflict has triggered a selective, technology-driven arms competition. In strategic terms, this fits a technology- and domain-specific arms race, not a Cold War-style buildup.However, experts warn that India risks over-learning the lessons of Sindoor, rushing to refight the last war, and not preparing adequately for an adaptive adversary in Pakistan, or a completely different challenge in China. Once again, we are seeing India undertake modernisation and force-structure planning reactively, based on the latest clashes (Sindoor) just as it did following the Ladakh crisis, said Tarapore. This means deliberate long-term capability development gets deferred again, he added. For instance, the launch of 10 Indian warships in 2025 was seen as an indicator of naval progress, yet six of those ships were the result of decisions made decades earlier. Ever since the Ladakh stand-off in 2020, it has been observed that the focus of the Indian defence spending has shifted from naval push to ground forces and infrastructure development on the border. Trouble next door Across the border, Pakistan drew its own lessons from the four-day confrontation and has meanwhile prioritised naval modernisation by inducting eight Hangor-class submarines from China. These submarines are diesel powered and derived from Chinas Type-039A/Yuan design and equipped with air-independent propulsion. Pakistan has also acquired MILGEM-class corvettes from Turkiye, which can be paired with submarine-launched cruise missiles such as the Babur-3. In the air domain, Pakistan is considering the acquisition of additional Chinese jets, possibly including J-10CE fighters, and exploring longer-term options such as J-35 stealth aircraft. The Sindoor confrontation appears to have deepened Pakistans dependence on China as its principal defence supplier, as it served as a testing ground for Chinese aircraft like the J-10C and JF-17 Thunder. China is the primary external actor in Islamabads defence modernisation, providing submarines, fighters, missiles, and air defence systems with minimal political conditions, a security analyst familiar with Pakistans force planning said. Beijings support also corresponds with its wider Indo-Pacific naval strategic interests, especially through infrastructure development and defence collaborations associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, he added. Post May 2025, Pakistan has received orders for JF17 from the Libyan National Army, in the countrys biggest ever arms deal. It is also in talks with Bangladesh for the possible sale of JF-17s. It has also signed memorandums of undertaking for the supply of JF-17 Thunder to Azerbaijan during the Dubai Airshow in November 2025. Moreover, 52 MFI-395 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft have also been delivered to Turkiye. The Pakistani defence exports were at their highest ever level in 2025, amounting to nearly $10 billion, by marketing its weapons as combat-tested. One of the most consequential lessons of Operation Sindoor for Pakistan was the vulnerability of its air defence architecture. The inability to confidently protect critical military infrastructure and airspace, hampered Pakistans escalation, and reinforced Indian confidence in employing conventional force below the nuclear threshold. For Pakistan, this episode changed its strategic calculus; rather than relying on its traditional nuclear deterrence, it appears to be pursuing a selective modernisation strategy. To boost its missile defence, Pakistan has conducted an indigenously developed Taimoor air-launched cruise missile, and it has also tested a Chinese surface-to-air missile LY-80(N) during a naval exercise in the north Arabian Sea. Barely two months after the conflict, Pakistan created its own missile command structure, known as the Army Rocket Force Command, which aimed at integrating all of Pakistans missile assets into one system. India is also looking to raise its own Integrated Rocket Force, which will be a rocket-cum-missile force as explained by Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi in his annual presser. Pakistan has also made structural changes in its military by abolishing the office of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and creating the post of Commander of the National Strategic Command, which will control countrys nuclear command. Post the conflict, Pakistan has also boosted its defence spending substantially by 20 per cent, which is its biggest spike in decades. What emerges from both sides post-Sindoor modernisation is not only the speed and lethality on the battlefield, but the entire escalation environment, which has become more compressed and unclear to the adversary. Elusive stability Despite the absence of direct troop contact during the May confrontation, the crisis underscored how quickly future clashes could intensify. Any conflict in the presence of nuclear weapons carries risks, especially of inadvertent or accidental escalation. It is for this reason that the Indian kinetic operations put so much emphasis on precision attacks to minimise chances of collateral damage, Sethi said. As Pakistan builds its own conventional capability, it could be emboldened once again. Till Pakistan continues with its strategy of bleeding India through a thousand cuts, stability will remain elusive, she added. Both sides are rushing to build deterrence post-conflict and maintain technological prowess, but this has not been matched by a commensurate investment in escalation-control mechanisms. The danger in this landscape is not an immediate return of dispute but the gradual erosion of escalation control mechanisms. When both sides can employ conventional force without going to the nuclear threshold, that belief can carry its own risks; it means they can keep climbing the escalation ladder until there is a third-party mediation. Military hotlines remain largely at the director-general of military operations (DGMO) level, with the uncertainity increasing due to the absence of robust communication channels. It is necessary to invest in credible mechanisms for escalation control (hotlines at more than DGMO levels, trusted back channels, etc), especially since the availability and reliability of third parties cannot be guaranteed in the current geopolitical environment, Sethi added. Faith in third-party mediation is fading, particularly when the President of the United States, Donald Trump, on multiple occasions tried to claim credit for brokering the ceasefire, much to Indias ire. This can further disillusion India from seeking external mediation in the future. L ong before the first shot is fired, a modern war begins inside servers, satellites, and secure military networks. As digital systems now increasingly integrate everything from battlefield communications to defence manufacturing and logistics, cyberspace has emerged as the decisive factor in conflicts. Cyber operations are no longer kept as a supporting arm it is an offensive capability shaping outcomes even before conventional force is applied. Indias cyber threat landscape remains vulnerable, with credible industry research consistently showing high volumes of attacks across both civilian networks and critical infrastructure systems. According to the India Cyber Threat Report 2026 published by Seqrite Labs the malware analysis wing of cybersecurity firm Quick Heal Indian networks recorded over 265 million cyberattack attempts between October 2024 and September 2025, with sectors such as education, healthcare and manufacturing accounting for nearly half of all detections. The critical infrastructure was targeted in May 2025, when the Power Grid Corporation of India, which operates the national electricity transmission system, experienced a DDoS (distributed denial of service) attack that disrupted online customer services for over 30 minutes. Similar cyber attacks on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant occurred in 2019, with agencies later linking it to North Korea. The size of these cyber attacks is very large. It comes in millions, said Dr Rajkumar Upadhyay, chief executive officer, Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT). All the sectors are under attack, including power, telecom, banking, and critical infrastructure. Upadhyay pointed out that cyber threats today are no longer limited to human-led intrusions. Earlier, people used to attack. Now AI is attacking. AI finds out everything in your network. Also Read Scotland vs Italy LIVE SCORE T20 World Cup 2026: Grant strikes as Munsey departs after fiery 84 This evolving threat environment has forced Indian agencies to focus not just on blocking attacks, but on detecting hostile activity much earlier in the chain. According to Upadhyay, cyber operations often begin long before visible damage occurs. Which port is open, which window is open Trinetra detects that before the actual attack happens. Trinetra is Indias indigenous cyber monitoring system developed by C-DOT, positioned as an early warning layer rather than a defensive shield. It looks at the entire traffic and generates alerts on where the attack is coming from and why it is coming, Upadhyay said. He was clear about its limits: Trinetra does not mitigate attacks. It only tells you where the attack is coming from. Mitigation is the responsibility of the respective organisations. While detection capabilities are improving, senior military cyber experts caution that cyber conflict is fundamentally different from conventional warfare and often invisible to the public. Explaining how this domain actually functions, Major General P K Mallick (retired), who has extensive experience in signals and cyber-related operations, said cyber warfare must be understood as a layered activity rather than a single act of attack. Cyber operations have three parts offensive cyber operations, defensive cyber operations and cyber exploitation, which sits in between, Mallick said. Cyber exploitation involves quietly entering an adversarys systems and remaining undetected, collecting intelligence and mapping networks over time. When the time comes, you simply change the intention. What was espionage becomes destruction. This preparatory phase, Mallick emphasised, is what makes cyber conflict fundamentally different from conventional warfare. Overnight cyber offence is not possible. You have to be inside the system much before the conflict begins. Mallick argued that resilience, not prevention, is the real measure of preparedness. The most important word in cyber security is resilience. Attacks will happen. The question is how fast you isolate, recover, restore, and identify the source. However, basic cyber hygiene still makes a major difference. If you have proper backups, ransomware attacks lose their power. That is why large organisations regularly shut systems at night to take massive backups. Cyber operations have also become evident as nation-states are also involved in such attacks with military contingencies. Commander Vivek Yadav (retired), director (IT and cybersecurity) in the defence ministry, said, During recent military contingencies, including Operation Sindoor, cyber intrusions were not isolated events but coordinated nation-state attacks involving actors beyond the immediate adversaries. He added that Indias response combined defence and disruption. India not only adopted a defensive cyber posture to protect critical and classified data but also disrupted hostile command-and-control (C2) servers attempting to breach Indian networks. Yadav explained that government systems are designed with a different philosophy from commercial networks. Unlike the private sectors fail-safe approach, government and defence systems are designed to fail-secure, prioritising data integrity over uninterrupted operations, he said. Dr Sameer Patil, director, Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology at the Observer Research Foundation, argued that Indias biggest vulnerability in cyber is not technical capacity but the absence of a guiding framework. The real problem is that India still does not have a national cybersecurity strategy. We have a joint doctrine for cyber operations, but there is no clarity on who should do what, especially on the offensive side, he said. Patil noted that while Indias armed forces have adopted a joint cyber doctrine, the lack of a national strategy has left critical questions of authority, coordination, and intent unresolved, particularly when cyber operations extend beyond purely military targets. He pointed out that institutional separation complicates coordination. Cyberspace cannot really be bifurcated. The civilian and military domains overlap, but our structures still treat them separately, and that is where the ambiguity comes from. The bone of contention remains: Who should really be in charge of cyberspace civilian agencies or the military? Patil warned that Indias rapidly expanding digital economy has created new vulnerabilities that are not being addressed in a coordinated manner beyond military and government networks. Digital payment systems are clearly critical infrastructure, but there is no visible coordination between institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and defence cyber agencies for their protection, he said. Patil noted that while platforms such as Unified Payments Interface have transformed financial inclusion, their scale also makes them attractive to hostile actors, requiring closer integration between civilian regulators, security agencies and cyber defence personnel. The severe capacity constraints also limit Indias ability to respond to sustained cyber pressure. The sheer scale of cyber threats means we simply do not have enough trained manpower, whether in law enforcement or cyber security, he said, adding that this shortage is even more pronounced within the armed forces. The kind of cyber and electronic warfare talent currently available within the armed forces is simply inadequate for the threat landscape we face. He pointed to global examples that India needs to rethink its approach to talent integration. Countries like Singapore and the UK have found innovative ways to integrate private-sector cyber talent into national security and India needs to think along similar lines. He added that most visible responses so far have been reactive. Most of what we have seen are reactionary cyber responses rather than pre-emptive cyber operations, and that stems from the absence of a clear strategy. The scale of recent attacks illustrates the pressure on existing systems. During Operation Sindoor, India faced nearly 1.5 million cyber attacks in just three weeks: the same number CERT-In handled in the entire year of 2023, Patil noted. At the same time, he acknowledged defensive success. Despite the scale of attacks, India has not suffered a cyber incident that disrupted or degraded critical infrastructure, and credit is due to the security agencies for that. Upadhyay warned that cyber vulnerabilities can quickly translate into systemic collapse if communications fail. Cyber security is as strong as its weakest link. This war will not be fought only by soldiers. If communication fails, banking, health, power everything will collapse. He argued that dependence on foreign cyber tools remains a major risk. You buy a firewall, but you dont know whether the policy inside it is correct. You install an agent on your system, and that agent keeps communicating outside the country. Your data is being protected, but it is also being taken away. According to him, the policy solution is clear. The biggest policy change required is complete indigenisation of cybersecurity. At least in government systems, there should be fully indigenous solutions. Mallick echoed this concern, pointing to deeper structural weaknesses. Most of our cyber defence today depends on foreign companies. If a foreign company detects a serious attack, do you really think they wont inform their own government? He added that indigenisation of cyber software and hardware is the only way forward. Looking ahead, both experts flagged emerging threats tied to quantum computing. Countries are storing encrypted data today so that it can be decrypted later when quantum computers arrive, Upadhyay warned. China is doing this already store now, harvest later. Despite these challenges, Indias talent pool remains a strategic advantage. Experts said that the contrast is not about the absence of talent in the country, but the inability of state institutions to effectively employ them at scale. There is no shortage of cyber talent in India. Our talent is among the best in the world, Upadhyay said, though he added that the problem lies in uneven understanding of cyber risks and the lack of institutional priority across sectors. While agencies have shown sustained efforts to withstand such attacks and protect the country from cyber threats, the future needs a clear strategy, coordination and ownership. I n his book Colonial Policy and Practice (1948), British civil servant J S Furnivall wrote about how colonial powers created artificial divisions that did not correspond to existing ethnic, cultural, and social patterns. One such example was the separation of Burma, now Myanmar, from British India in 1937, which divided areas along the Patkai mountains, separating Indias north-eastern provinces from Burma; it disrupted patterns of kinship and trade that had existed for centuries. The history of these borders continues to influence Myanmars politics to this day, as the General Min Aung Hlaing-led military junta, which came to power following a coup in February 2021, conducted general elections. These elections neither resolve Myanmars internal crisis nor provide a credible basis for long-term stability, Sreeparna Banerjee, associate fellow at the think-tank Observer Research Foundation, said. Insecurity, weak local governance, and uncertainty over political authority continue to stall progress. For context, the military government in Myanmar controls less than 21-30 per cent of the countrys area, which includes its capital, Naypyidaw, and major cities like Yangon and Mandalay. The rest of the country, including borderlands, is controlled by a complex mix of ethnic armed rebel groups and new factions. Also Read Why Myanmar's junta plans elections during an ongoing nationwide civil war According to reports, around 67 of the countrys 330 townships have been completely left out of the elections as polling stations could not be established due to active conflict situations. On January 26, after the final phase of voting, the military-associated Union Solidarity and Development Party claimed they had won the elections, having dominated in most of the electoral seats they ran for. The Association of South East Asian Nations (where Myanmar is a member) refused to endorse and accredit the elections because of the juntas failure to follow the five-point plan that the bloc recommended for the resolution of the crisis in 2021. In 2024, Myanmars rebel forces seized large swathes of territory, and the junta regime looked about to collapse. But the militarys air power, along with disoriented opposition, enabled them to regroup and hold on to power. There is little doubt that Myanmars internal strife and conflict has spilled over into Indias northeast through the porous 1,643-kilometre-long border they share. This has led to an influx of refugees, drugs, and weapons. The region lies at the heart of the Golden Triangle, which extends to parts of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand, and is notorious for opium cultivation and drug trade. Most of the border on Myanmars side is currently controlled by different rebel groups like the Arakan Army, the Peoples Defence Force, and the Chin resistance fighters. This is a complex situation for India, which has had limited engagement with the rebel groups to ensure stability. In a divided Myanmar, practical border management requires engagement with whoever exercises control on the ground, Rajiv Bhatia, former Indian ambassador to Myanmar, said. India deals with whoever is in power; engagement is recognition of political reality, not endorsement. The Indian government has considered maintaining the Free Movement Regime (FMR), which permits people residing along the border to travel up to 16 km across either side without a visa. This has allowed ethnic groups on both sides to maintain longstanding ties. But concerns regarding the spillover of ethnic violence to states like Manipur, which has seen brutal conflict since May 2023, has left the FMRs future uncertain. Prolonged instability also puts Indias connecting projects under its Act East Policy at risk. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway run through areas now outside junta control and have faced delays. Without stability and cooperation on the ground, progress is extremely difficult, Bhatia said. Currently, China is the most dominant foreign power in Myanmars civil war. While keeping close ties with the military leadership, it maintains links with some ethnic armed groups. Most of its leverage stems from the infrastructure projects through the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), such as the Kyaukphyu deep sea port. The CMEC allows China to operate oil and gas pipelines connecting its Yunnan province to the Bay of Bengal, effectively bypassing the Strait of Malacca through its land border to gain access to the Indian Ocean. by Anand Teltumbde (editor) Published by Penguin India 400 pages 1,299 The journey of human rights has been a long one. While religions always come with a set of dos and donts, they do not necessarily result in equitable practices, nor do they recognise human liberty and rights that lie at the core of modern human existence. It was the 20th century that proved the turning point for the cause of human rights, especially with the creation of the United Nations after World War II. Even so, the world has struggled to follow the principles of this basic value. In Whither Human Rights in India, several prominent human rights activists have come together to discuss the layered erosion of liberty in contemporary times. The book is edited by academic and social activist Anand Teltumbde and has two sections. The first part covers varied perspectives on the subversion of human rights. Advocate Mihir Desais essay deals with the Supreme Court and how it has fared when it comes to upholding human rights. Mr Desais essay is, in effect, a reality check. Well before the last decade, he writes, the courts record in upholding human rights has scarcely been exemplary. While the Supreme Court struck down the proposed National Judicial Appointments Commission amendment, which was basically aimed at attacking the autonomy of judiciary, it didnt really manage to stem the continuous onslaught on the liberty and rights of the citizens by the state. Though there have been some landmark judgments in this period the right to privacy, the decriminalisation of homosexuality and so on the question is whether these were sufficient to balance the relentless attacks on dissenters and activists by the state. Human rights activist and journalist Gautam Navlakha talks about how the judicial process often becomes the punishment itself and points to the ever-rising crisis of under-trials in Indian prisons. We all know about the prison-industrial complex in the United States, which has led to forced incarceration especially of the black community. In India, the rising numbers of under-trials and the fact that most of them come from disadvantaged backgrounds points to the same social undercurrent. Fundamental legal principles such as bail is the rule, jail is the exception are applied selectively. You are at the mercy of the judge and have a better chance if you have access to resources. Mr Navlakha uses official data to underline the dire situation inside the jails and goes on to mention his own experience of being in the jail during Covid-19 when he was quarantined at the Gokhale school where each classroom had more than 30 inmates crammed together, defeating the purpose of medical isolation. He emphasises the need for making the prison system reformative rather than punitive. The second part of the book focuses on the experience of communities living on the edges of society. Academic Virginius Xaxas essay is a testament to how the colonial era marginalisation of Adivasis continues even today. The displacement and dispossession of the tribal people due to so-called developmental projects in modern India has been overwhelming, begging the question: Whose development is it, anyway? Mr Xaxa also points to a vital institutional infirmity that contributes to the rising atrocities against tribal people the constitutional safeguards that have been put in place to protect remain toothless because the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes is still understaffed and hence, cannot respond efficiently. Irfan Engineer, meanwhile, has highlighted how hatred against the Muslim community has been institutionalised, especially in the police force. He goes to list the different laws that have been misused to target them. When rationalists such as Govind Pansare or others like him were murdered, many spoke up against these crimes. Gradually, however, the voices of the opposition have dwindled; today, one of the accused is a corporator in Maharashtra. In the initial few years of the last decade, the responsibility for most of the hate crimes against the minority communities, especially Muslims, were blamed on fringe elements, enabling society at large to abdicate its responsibility. Today, we are at a juncture where it is safe to assume that the so-called fringe is the mainstream. That is why books like these become an important addition to the literature on human rights. They force us to face reality and maybe even inspire us to choose a better route. Whither Human Rights in India covers a diverse range of issues that will help the reader grasp the contexts under which these conversations can be taken forward. In fact, the layered and nuanced analysis of these essays make it difficult not to grasp the severity of the times in which we live. Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL) has raised long-term funding from a group of Japanese banks for its flagship high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission project, the company said in a press release. The project is designed as a green evacuation corridor to support the growing movement of renewable power across northern India. The HVDC project will play a vital role in evacuating renewable energy from Rajasthan, one of Indias most solar-rich states, and feeding it into the national grid. This will help ensure that green power generated in remote regions can reach areas with high electricity demand. Built as a 800 kV HVDC system, the corridor will have an evacuation capacity of 6,000 megawatts (MW). Spanning about 950 km, it will connect Bhadla in Rajasthan to Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh. The project is scheduled to be commissioned by 2029. Once operational, the transmission link is expected to become a major green power artery, helping integrate large volumes of renewable energy while improving grid stability for energy-intensive cities and industrial hubs in northern India. Kandarp Patel, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), AESL, said, This project marks a defining step in building Indias green transmission backbone. The continued support from our Japanese partners -- including leading banks and Hitachi -- reflects the depth of the IndiaJapan partnership and our shared commitment to enabling a sustainable energy future..." Adani Groups clean energy ecosystem The transmission asset is part of the Adani Groups broader clean energy platform. Rajasthan remains a key generation base for Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), whose renewable projects already supply power to AESLs subsidiary, Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited (AEML), the press release said. ALSO READ: Adani Group plans 70,000 crore push to deepen footprint in Vidarbha AEML currently sources over 40 per cent of its electricity from renewable energy, placing Mumbai among the worlds major cities with significant green power usage. India-Japan collaboration The funding has been led by Japanese banks MUFG Bank Ltd and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). The project will use advanced HVDC technology from Hitachi, developed in partnership with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). This collaboration supports Indias domestic manufacturing goals under the 'Make in India' programme, while also showcasing Japans expertise in transmission technology, the press release said. AESL recently received a BBB+ (Stable) credit rating from Japanese rating agency JCR, in line with Indias sovereign rating. The funding has been raised under AESLs sustainable debt framework and follows the Equator Principles, allowing lenders to classify it as a 'green loan'. A moratorium is not being asked for, only reassessment, said a source privy to the submissions made by the telecom company (telco) to the department. Queries sent to Airtel did not elicit a response as of Sunday night. Executive Vice-Chairman Gopal Vittal said on Friday that the company was yet to hear back from the department despite multiple requests seeking parity in several areas, including computation errors, arithmetical errors, and errors of omission, in the assessment carried out for Vi. VIs dues were frozen at 87,695 crore by DoT in December last year following a Supreme Court order. The company has been directed to pay 1,144 crore over the next 10 years out of its total outstanding, after which its actual AGR payments will begin once the dues are reassessed by a DoT committee. Airtels AGR dues are estimated to exceed 40,000 crore. The company has already paid about 18,000 crore, but the outstanding continues to rise as interest on principal, penalty, and interest on penalty are being levied by the government for non-payment. Even after assuming only a minor dip in capital expenditure (capex) from 2025-26 (FY26) levels, spectrum instalments, and no AGR benefit, we estimate 1.2 trillion of cumulative free cash flow (FCF) generation over 2026-27 and 2027-28, analysts at IIFL Securities said, pointing to the carriers ability to meet its outstanding dues. With FCF generation of 17,300 crore in the third quarter (October-December/Q3) FY26 and 45,500 crore in the nine months ended December 2025, Airtels net debt excluding lease liabilities and government debt stands below 20,000 crore. The rights issue call on partly paid shares is expected to yield 15,800 crore, driving further deleveraging, the analysts added. The Sunil Bharti Mittal-promoted carrier plans to double its share of the data centre market to 25 per cent by 2030, expanding capacity nearly tenfold to 1 gigawatt. This will be among the companys largest capex commitments. The expansion is expected to require an investment of $6 billion, which can be supported by strong FCF generation, IIFL analysts said in a note. Vittal told analysts during the earnings call on Friday that the company could partner existing shareholder Singtel to speed up data centre rollout, following Singtels move to acquire STT Telemedias data centres globally as well as in India. GCC clients already constitute 65 per cent of its portfolio. Amit Shetty, CEO, Embassy Office Parks Reit, said the mix is expected to move decisively higher as multinational firms expand their India presence to tap the countrys technology, data science and artificial intelligence talent pool. That growth velocity should play out over the two years. We believe our portfolio will have about 65-70 per cent GCC clients in the same timeframe, driven by continued expansion from both existing centres and new entrants, Shetty told Business Standard. Within the Embassy Reit portfolio, technology firms account for about 30 per cent of GCC tenants, while banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) contribute around 20-23 per cent. Co-working operators make up roughly 7 per cent, and IT-enabled services (ITes) about 9 per cent. Moreover, the push comes alongside its strong Q3FY26 performance, with the company reporting a 17 per cent Y-o-Y rise in revenue from operations and a 19 per cent increase in net operating income (NOI), underpinned by steady leasing, higher occupancy and the addition of assets generating cash flow. Shetty further noted that the improvement in operating metrics reflects several embedded levers across the portfolio. Occupancy by value rose to 94 per cent in Q3FY26 from 93 per cent in the previous quarter, supported by 1.1 million square feet of leasing during the quarter. One such lever, he said, is contracted rental escalations. Embassy Office Parks Reit has secured escalations across 7.2 million square feet for FY26, adding built-in growth to its cash flows. In addition, the Reit is benefiting from assets moving from development to rental yield status. Shetty remains optimistic on the mid-term outlook for office leasing, indicating a robust 2025 for the Indian market. Leasing activity during the calendar year touched 82.6 million square feet, while new supply stood at about 57 million square feet, taking India to one billion square feet of total office stock. He noted that vacancy levels declined to 20 per cent from around 21 per cent. In key micro-markets, vacancies are as low as 5-7 per cent, putting upward pressure on rents. Across the country, rental rates have firmed up by about 10-12 per cent, he said, adding that industry forecasts point to absorption of 82-85 million square feet annually over the next two years. In addition, Embassy Reit distributed 613 crore to unitholders during the quarter and expects to be on track to meet its full-year guidance for around 10 per cent growth in distributions per unit (DPU). For FY26, the Reit has guided to 13 per cent growth in NOI and portfolio occupancy of 90-91 per cent by area, translating to about 94 per cent by value. While Shetty declined to comment on forward-looking projections, he said Embassy Reits assets under management (AUM) currently stand at around 64,000 crore and market capitalisation at 42,000 crore. On the geographical development, Embassy Reit has a pipeline of 7.6 million square feet, requiring an estimated capital expenditure of about 4,000 crore. Once stabilised, this pipeline is expected to generate around 740 crore of NOI. This would further increase the companys leasable area by 19 per cent. Shetty noted that it is Embassy Reits core growth engine. While Bengaluru dominates 75 per cent of the portfolio, Embassy Reit also operates in Mumbai, NCR, Pune and Chennai. Further, the Reit is eyeing Hyderabad entry. Marico on Monday announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Marico South-East Asia Corporation (MSEA), has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a 75 per cent equity stake in Vietnamese direct-to-consumer company Skinetiq Joint Stock Company, based on an equity valuation of Rs 350 crore, in an all-cash deal. Skinetiq is a Vietnamese direct-to-consumer company that owns the digital-first, science-backed skincare brand Candid. Skinetiq also holds exclusive distribution rights in Vietnam for the skincare brand Murad. The deal will be executed in two tranches. Marico will pay Rs 222.3 crore on receipt of 75 per cent of the total shares, and in the second tranche it will pay Rs 39.3 crore, subject to fulfilment of certain terms and conditions under the definitive agreements. Skinetiq was co-founded in 2020 by Bui Ngoc Anh and Hannah Nguyen, a leading beauty blogger in Vietnam with more than 1.5 million followers on both TikTok and Facebook, the company said in an exchange filing. Vietnams beauty industry is undergoing a remarkable shift, with about 50 per cent of category consumption now driven by e-commerce and social commerce channels. Skinetiq has scaled to Rs 152 crore in revenues in CY2025 with a sustainable mid-twenties Ebitda margin profile, the filing added. The filing also said that the transaction aligns with Maricos long-term strategy of building a strong premium beauty play in Vietnam, while enabling participation in the countrys growing D2C beauty market and realising various operational synergies. Saugata Gupta, managing director and chief executive officer of Marico, said, The investment in Skinetiq reflects our commitment to building a strong premium beauty play in Vietnam and advancing our D2C strategy internationally. Vietnam remains a priority market for us, driven by its strong macroeconomic fundamentals and rapidly evolving beauty landscape. Skinetiqs digital-led model and science-backed portfolio align seamlessly with Maricos vision for the future of beauty and portfolio premiumisation. This partnership positions us to invest ahead of the curve in Vietnams fast-growing e-commerce and D2C space, while creating a strong platform to introduce more brands in the years ahead. Bui Ngoc Anh, founder and executive chairman of Skinetiq JSC, said, We founded Skinetiq with a simple belief: Vietnamese consumers deserve high-quality, science-backed skincare tailored to their needs. Today, partnering with Marico gives us the platform, expertise and resources to build a strong foundation for long-term, sustainable growth. Im excited to embark on our next phase with a company that shares our ambition and commitment to excellence, as we scale our innovation pipeline and deepen our connection with Vietnamese consumers. Tata Steels net profit zoomed 723 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) but was down sequentially. What is the outlook for Q4? Narendran: Domestic steel prices in October-November were the lowest in the past five years. It started changing in December. The impact of that was felt in the realisations. The Y-o-Y performance was driven by better volumes, cost takeouts, and the continued turnaround in the Netherlands. The UK improved on a nine-month comparison, but not Q3 (Y-o-Y) so there is work to be done there. In India, volumes are picking up with the ramp-up in Kalinganagar and the product-mix is getting better with the commissioning of the cold rolling mill and galvanising lines. The combi mill in Jamshedpur has started. So we continue to build volumes in the very high-end sectors. Steel prices have rebound from multi-year lows. Is the uptrend likely to hold? Narendran: Till November, domestic steel prices were at a discount to landed import. This is reflective of the fact that while demand was growing, more supply came into the market. Export markets were not an option because prices were low. But slowly the demand growth caught up with supply. Pockets of export markets opened up. So theres better balance and domestic prices are at a bit of a premium to landed imports. Also, since November coking coal prices have gone up by at least $50 a tonne. Some of that impact will be felt in Q4, but more of it in Q1 of next year. So there's no motivation for steel companies to drop prices because costs are going up. And across sectors, we are seeing a pickup in volumes, both in rural and urban markets. There are allegations that steel firms, including Tata Steel, colluded on pricing. How would you respond to it? Narendran: The Director General (DG) has done some investigation and come to some conclusions. We got some redacted documents, now we have the full documents. We will study it and make our submissions to the CCI. As we stated, we don't do anything which is illegal. The issue, according to the report, is about steel prices going up together but that's how commodity markets work. No single player controls steel prices. In the markets, steel prices are published every day. We feel it's a transparent market, where prices move up and down globally, not just in India, and on a daily basis. Its a commodity in that sense of the term, so there is no room for arbitrage if someone increases prices, others will also increase. Otherwise the middleman will make the money. In Europe, CBAM has come into force. Will it be a reset year in terms of prices? Narendran: In Europe the continent, not the UK prices will now get reset. Traditionally, domestic prices in India were typically $100 more than domestic prices in China; prices in Europe were $100 more than in India. And the US price was $100 more than Europe. But now, the US price is $300 higher than Europe. And Europe is actually coming closer to Asian prices. That will now correct Europe will move closer to US prices. You have been in discussion for the recalibration of quotas in the UK. What is the current status? Narendran: We are told it will happen soon. The UK government is also feeling the pain because they are operating some of the assets in the UK. Chatterjee: There are a few things that they are to do. As immediate trade neighbours the UK-EU trade has to get on the same level of reciprocity. Exports from the UK to the EU should be without any tariffs, which was the case earlier. Second is aligning the quotas relating to non-EU countries in the same way as the EU has done. The third part is the fungibility between the UK and EU, not just on the tariff point but also the melt-and-pour conditions. Fourth, scrap is a strategic raw material for the UK it should be value added in the UK rather than allowed as free exports. Will the US tariff continue to weigh on Tata Steel Netherlands? Narendran: It will, because almost 10 per cent of our deliveries out of the Netherlands used to go to the US. The volumes will be less maybe half of what it has been in the previous years. Some of those steels can't be sold in the European market at the same grade. So there is volume and product mix impact. Chatterjee: It is looking at newer markets like Latin America and West Asia, which have high-packaging consumption. The realisations are not as high as the US, but they are higher compared to others. The mix will get affected as it got in the last quarter. But we are looking at mitigations on different products, product mix and markets for the same products. You have geopolitical headwinds, there are cheap imports globally and pressure to decarbonise. How challenging is it for the steel industry right now? Narendran: I think it's always been challenging this industry has always been geopolitically plugged in on trade issues and policy matters. It's a highly regulated value chain from mining to steel. But the volatility has increased. Tata Steel operates across geographies the objective is to make each geography self-sufficient in more ways than one. We want to make ourselves structurally less vulnerable to policy and trade actions by different geographies. On Monday, Tamil Nadu formally entered Jaguar Land Rovers global production map as Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) and its arm JLR announced the commencement of operations at a Rs 9,000 crore manufacturing facility at Panapakkam in Ranipet district, around 85 kilometres from Chennai. The company said that within five to seven years, it will produce around 250,000300,000 units per year, making it one of the largest such facilities in India and converting Panapakkam into an export hub. Tata Sons and TMPV Chairman N Chandrasekaran said Tamil Nadu has entered the elite list of manufacturing locations for the global brand including the United Kingdom, Austria, China and Brazil. The first vehicle to roll out of the plant is the locally manufactured Range Rover Evoque from JLR, a model celebrated globally for its modern luxury and craftsmanship. Now, Tamil Nadu will become part of the global production map. Tata has created its presence in Tamil Nadu on a large scale through Tata Consultancy Services, Tata Power, Tata Chemicals, Indian Hotels, and Tata Electronics, Chandrasekaran said. This factory is the most advanced among Tata Motors-JLR factories. In four years, a total of three phases are planned. We are planning around 250,000300,000 vehicles per year by then, he added. The current facility reflects the first phase of development of a greenfield plant for producing next-generation vehicles, including electric vehicles, for both TMPV and JLR brands. The facility was formally inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin in the presence of Industries Minister T R B Rajaa. Tata Group has long played a pivotal role in nation-building and shares a deep, historic partnership with Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu welcomes this significant milestone and remains committed to supporting industries that create jobs, drive innovation, and reinforce our position as Indias leading hub for manufacturing and mobility, Stalin said. The trust that the Tata family places in Tamil Nadu is huge. The facility offers jobs to over 5,000 people. I thank the group for starting this at Ranipet, he said. TMPVs Panapakkam plant brings together advanced manufacturing technologies and a skilled workforce to deliver world-class vehicles. The facility is operated by a diverse team of shopfloor technicians from across Tamil Nadu, who are also participating in Tata Motors Lakshya programme, an earn while you learn initiative that accelerates talent growth from the shopfloor into engineering and management roles. Selected through a rigorous statewide assessment of polytechnic graduates, they completed five months of intensive, hands-on training at JLR facilities, equipping them with operational and technical proficiency. With the opportunity to earn a company-sponsored BTech degree from a recognised university while working, they can advance personal growth and professional excellence while supporting their families. Their journey underscores how focused skilling and local talent development can accelerate advanced manufacturing and deliver lasting economic and social impact. The Panapakkam facility also exemplifies TMPVs sustainability-first philosophy, incorporating environmentally responsible operations at every stage. The plant has been designed to operate entirely on renewable energy, be water-positive, and set a new benchmark for green manufacturing within the automotive sector. Designed with a high quotient of sustainable practices, it prioritises efficiency, minimises emissions, and adheres to stringent global environmental benchmarks. The inauguration of our Panapakkam facility marks a significant milestone in the Tata Groups journey to accelerate Indias leadership in sustainable and future-ready manufacturing. We are also proud to deepen our long-standing partnership with Tamil Nadu, a state that continues to drive industrial excellence, innovation and inclusive growth. With this facility, we look forward to producing vehicles of exceptional quality, craftsmanship and technology for customers in India and around the world, Chandrasekaran said. Chandrasekaran was addressing around 700 senior employees of TCS at the firms internal global leadership and strategy conference, Blitz, in Dubai. Talking to employees after the presentation of the companys latest numbers, Chandrasekaran (or Chandra as hes popularly called) is learnt to have said the results were not great and called for honest reflection without being defensive. He noted that performance shortfalls are typically driven by a combination of market conditions, customer-specific challenges, and internal execution gaps, said people in the know. In a year where the company has not delivered numbers, its important to reflect, Chandra is learnt to have said. He indicated that some factors are market-driven, some impact customers more, and some are because we didnt do a good job its always a combination. He asked the teams to identify where execution could have been better. Emphasising the need for grit, he told employees not to lose energy or confidence, saying the company has recovered from downturns multiple times in the past, a source revealed. Its not difficult to get back on the path, Chandra is learnt to have stressed. He also pointed to AI as a major opportunity for TCS, urging employees to embed AI into their daily work. He called for focus on delivering tangible outcomes for customers, including better experiences, faster delivery, and greater agility. The opportunity is huge for TCS, according to Chandra. He wants TCSers to make the most of it and work towards a great year. But the real message was: do whatever is necessary. What was different this time at Blitz was the presence of younger TCSers. A senior executive said: This is perhaps the first time that Blitz had young 26-year-old coders presenting. K Krithivasan, chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD), TCS, acknowledged that for the first time TCS has underperformed peers, another source said. The point being made by Krithivasan was that every technology disruption has led to growth and that this tech disruption too will take TCS to the next level. Krithivasan is also learnt to have reiterated that the company has over 5,000 AI engagements across industries. TCS has been making strategic changes to align itself with the new AI landscape. This started with the onboarding of Aarthi Subramanian as chief operating officer (COO) and Mangesh Sathe as chief strategy officer. The company recently announced its foray into the data centre business with the creation of subsidiary HyperVault. Kotak Mahindra Bank on Monday announced the resignation of its Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Bhavnish Lathia, citing personal reasons. The bank said Lathias resignation had been accepted and that he served his last working day on February 9. In his resignation letter, Lathia said: I need to return to the US for personal reasons. As a result, I will resign as CTO for Kotak Mahindra Bank effective today. Lathia was appointed CTO in March 2025, following the resignation of Milind Nagnur, who had stepped down from his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CTO in February 2025, effective February 15. The bank has appointed Nilesh Chaudhari its new CTO and designated him as senior management personnel. Chaudhari has nearly 29 years of experience across global and Indian financial institutions, including JPMorgan Chase, Barclays, Citigroup, and IDFC First Bank. Chaudhari has held several senior leadership roles, including CIO Global Payments at Barclays; head of retail banking technology and head of Asia Banking Technology at JPMorgan; and CTO for corporate and wholesale banking at IDFC First Bank. His expertise spans payments, core banking, treasury, cash management, digital platforms, data, lending, and large-scale technology transformation across more than 20 countries. An engineer by training, Chaudhari holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the University of Poona, and leading complex technology modernisation programmes. At Kotak Mahindra Bank, he plays a key role in advancing strategic technology initiatives across wholesale banking, commercial banking, treasury, GIFT City operations, assurance, and enabling functions. Separately, the bank also announced the appointment of Aravamudham Narayanan (Vijay Narayanan) as head (innovation and AI) and as senior management personnel of the bank. Disclosure: Entities controlled by the Kotak family have a significant holding in Business Standard Pvt Ltd How do you see the India market progressing? Will it continue to be your largest market for the next couple of years? We hold more than 50 per cent of the whole market between the 1 lakh and 5 lakh segment. We have this important share, and also this important absolute focus. On the other side, we also have big markets that are performing well, like the US and some areas of Europe. I also believe that China will bounce back one day, but I have the feeling that in India, the economy, the population and education level is growing. People are hungry, motivated and passionate to participate in the industry, and this will create wealth; and when you have wealth, of course they can buy luxury goods. So, I see a very optimistic outlook for the Indian market for Rado in the upcoming years. Where do you think Indias contribution to global revenue can reach with premiumisation reflecting in preferences and purchases? The Indian community is already an important, two-digit share, of the whole global community of the Rado business. We have the business here in India, and also the tourist business around the globe as Indians are travelling. In many countries, when we got the feedback that Indians are over proportionally focused on Rado. It is also bringing us a particularly nice contribution to the global turnover of brands. To keep this, we need to stay innovative and close to the consumer and partners, and really take care of India. Is competition in 1-5 lakh segment rising, with more global brands intending to take share away from you? No, we are not afraid of competition. When a customer decides to buy a Swiss watch brand, he's investing in a long-term, valuable consumption goods from a country which has a huge expertise in watchmaking. Therefore, our products have a different standing. Of course, we also have competition within Swiss brands but customers worldwide, and especially in India, like individuality. The fact that the biggest part of our watches are produced in high-tech ceramic, scratch resistant, light and weather friendly makes it an investment for long term. These features definitely make us quasi- untouchable, because we are so different. What impact of the India-European Union (EU) and India-Swiss trade deals do you see on your business here? The big advantage of the trade deal between Switzerland and India, happened in March 2023, and it started to become relevant in the end of last year. Now, step by step, taxes will be reduced, and soon you will have a free market and a huge advantage for the end consumer because they wont have to pay higher taxes. It's definitely an advantage also for us since we have many employees here. It's important on a political level. We have smooth and constructive relations. Now, the trade deals between Europe, US and India are interesting for other segments, not so much for Swiss watch business. But it will give an opportunity to Indian customers to buy products from other countries, without or with less taxes, specifically from the EU. Does this open up the opportunity to do any sort of manufacturing here? Were Rado Switzerland and in order to communicate Rado Switzerland, we need to make the product 100 per cent in Switzerland, therefore production will remain there. But on the other side, we have our own marketing here, customer service is here as well, so all watches purchased here are also repaired here. How are you planning to expand your retail presence in India? We have 34 Rado boutiques in India, which is around 40 per cent of our business. So, the boutique strategy with the strong branding will be increased. The total point of sales may not increase, but we want to be present qualitatively, at the right places and also in Tier-II and III cities. Our ambition is also to increase the quantity of boutiques. Have you identified the Tier-II and III cities for expansion? In the first eight months of FY26, nearly 33 per cent of Indias imports of crude oil came from Russia down from about 38 per cent in FY25 (Apr-Nov). The share of the US in such imports by India increased from 4.57 per cent in FY25 (Apr-Nov) to 8.13 per cent in FY26 (Apr-Nov). Trump will likely appreciate the trend but Russia dominates Indias oil basket, with its share rising from 31 per cent in September to 34 per cent in November 2025. The USs share increased to 13.19 per cent in November 2025 the highest since December 2022. Discounts make Russian oil lucrative for India: The average unit price of importing such crude was $482.7 per tonne in November, the lowest since June 2023. Crude oil imports from Iraq were even cheaper, with the unit price at $472.9 per tonne in November. The unit price of US oil imports was $523.3 per tonne $40-50 more for every tonne of crude oil India imported from Iraq or Russia. Bessent had said that the European Union (EU) is funding Russias war against Ukraine by purchasing petroleum products from India. However, EUs imports of Indian petroleum products declined from $12.04 billion in FY24 (Apr-Nov) to $8.77 billion in the first eight months of FY26 - a drop of over 27 per cent year-on-year. India and the six-nation bloc of Middle Eastern nations, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), on Thursday inked terms of reference on Thursday for starting talks for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The terms of reference (ToR) outline the scope and modalities of a proposed trade pact. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal presided over the signing ceremony of the ToRs with GCC. GCC is a union of six countries in the Gulf region -- Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain. Goyal said that the agreement will help boost bilateral trade and investments between the two. He added that about 10 million Indians are living and working in the GCC region. India has already implemented a free trade pact with the UAE in May 2022. India and Oman also signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Muscat on December 18, 2025. Launch of FTA talks with the GCC would be a kind of resumption of the negotiations, as the earlier two rounds of negotiations were held in 2006 and 2008 between the two regions. The third round did not happen as GCC deferred its negotiations with all countries and economic groups. India imports predominantly crude oil and natural gas from the Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and exports pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, metals, imitation jewellery, electrical machinery, iron and steel, and chemicals to these countries. India's exports to the GCC grew by about one per cent to about $57 billion in 2024-25 against $56.32 billion in 2023-24. Imports rose by 15.33 per cent to $121.7 billion in 2024-25 from $105.5 billion in 2023-24. Bilateral trade has increased to $178.7 billion in 2024-25 from $161.82 billion in 2023-24. The UAE was India's third-largest trading partner in the last fiscal. India's exports to the nation stood at $36.63 billion, while imports were $63.40 billion in the last fiscal, resulting in a trade deficit of $26.76 billion in 2024-25. Saudi Arabia was India's fifth-largest trading partner during the last fiscal. Exports to the kingdom were $11.75 billion, while imports stood at $30.12 billion, leading to a trade deficit of $18.36 billion in 2024-25. Qatar ranked as India's 22nd-largest trading partner last fiscal. Exports stood at $1.68 billion, while imports were $12.46 billion, leaving a trade deficit of $10.78 billion in 2024-25. India mainly imports liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar, while exporting products ranging from cereals to meat, fish, chemicals and plastics. Oman was the 28th largest trading partner of India in 2024-25. Exports stood at $4 billion, while imports aggregated to $6.54 billion. The trade deficit was 2.48 billion. Kuwait ranked 29th among India's trading partners in 2024-25. Exports stood at $1.93 billion, while imports were $8.28 billion, leading to a trade deficit of $6.35 billion. Similarly, India's outbound shipments to Bahrain, which is the 65th largest trading partner of India, were $797.47 million in the last fiscal. Imports were $843.44 million, leaving a trade deficit of $45.97 million in 2024-25. By Rakesh Sharma Indias imports of Russian oil could almost halve from already weaker recent levels, according to people with direct knowledge of the purchases, after US President Donald Trump issued an order detailing some terms of a trade deal between the two nations. All state-owned and private refiners, with the exception of Nayara Energy Ltd., had paused buying any spot cargoes since Trump first mentioned the deal in a social media post about a week ago, according to the people, who asked not to be named discussing sensitive information. While India confirmed the trade deal, it has not commented on details including oil. That hiatus is now likely to be extended following the executive order issued on Friday, they said, with purchases likely to roughly halve from an average of 1.2 million barrels a day in January. The Indian refiners had spent an uneasy weekend scrutinising the US order, the people said, adding that they hadnt yet received any guidance from New Delhi and were not expecting it to come any time soon. The processors have found themselves in a tight spot politically as their enthusiasm for discounted oil runs up against increasingly aggressive demands from Washington, which has linked the purchases to the wider trade deal. The South Asian nation went from buying almost no Russian crude from Moscow before the invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 war to becoming the worlds biggest importer of the oil. The US stepped up its pressure in October, sanctioning Russian producers Rosneft PJSC and Lukoil PJSC. The 1.2 million barrels a day of purchases in January, according to Kpler data, compare with a high point of around 2 million barrels a day in 2024. Nayara, which is backed by Rosneft, would probably keep buying about 400,000 barrels a day of Russian oil, the people said, citing the companys inability to source crude from any other producers due to its sanctioned status. However, its not clear if Nayara has been issued any exemptions or permission from Washington and New Delhi to proceed with purchases. Indian imports are likely to settle around 400,000 to 500,000 barrels a day once the unwinding is complete, Vandana Hari, the founder of Singapore consultancy Vanda Insights. The overall economic benefit of a trade deal with the US will outweigh the advantage of discounted crude imports. Purchases of Russian oil by Indian Oil Corp., Bharat Petroleum Corp. and Reliance Industries Ltd. are now highly uncertain, said the people. All three refiners will take delivery of already booked cargoes but have paused placing fresh orders, they said. Indias oil ministry, Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, Reliance and Nayara didnt respond to emails seeking comment.